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West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 75 2008

www.blithfield.com For more information, visit: information, more For www.blithfield.com Visit Blithfield and you’ll leave behind the leave you’ll Blithfield and Visit right on And it’s of every life. stresses day doorstep! your If you prefer dry land, take a stroll through dry through take a stroll If prefer land, you Taking on Blithfield Estate. the woodlands the the Reservoir, across in stunning views much of cross footpaths specially created lover’s a wildlife and are Estate the 2,350 acre flora and trees, with birds, teeming paradise, and car the footpaths to Access insect life. of charge. parking free are Day tickets give you the chance to fish at the to the chance you tickets give Day or splash out and site, trout top Midlands’ a from Choose take an annual membership. of bank, on 11 miles one of our pitch hire or At boats and get out on the water. powered some can take away you the end of the day, of fish suppers! the freshest for catch of your Here at Blithfield, the scenery matches the fishing – both a real treat. treat. real the scenery a the fishing – both Blithfield, matches at Here Escape to a well-deserved on water or land. out day – right on your doorstep! your on – right Stunning Staffordshire Stunning The Birds of Staffordshire, , and the 2008

Annual Report 75

Editor D.W. Emley

Published by West Midland Bird Club 2010 Published by West Midland Bird Club

© West Midland Bird Club

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without permission of the copyright owners.

The West Midland Bird Club is a registered charity No. 213311.

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

ISSN 1476-2862

Printed by Healeys Printers Ltd., Unit 10, The Sterling Complex, Farthing Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5AP.

Price £9.00 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands 2008

Annual Report 75

Contents

4Editorial 6 Submission of Records 7 Birds and Weather in 2008 15 Systematic List 230 Ringing in 2008

235 Satellite-tagged Hen Harrier from Bowland winters in Tame Valley 237 Berry Hill by the Seasons – Past and Present 241 Bird Ringing at Belvide – an overview 244 The decline of the Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus in Staffordshire

247 County Lists 254 Gazetteer 264 List of Contributors 269 Index of Species

Front Cover Photograph: Common Redstart on Cannock Chase, Steve Seal

3 Editorial Look at any field guide or, indeed, our Annual Report, and you will see that the families of birds are laid out in a particular order. Newcomers may find this sequence strange and illogical but it is not. The idea of the sequence is to convey relationships between families and the degree of evolutionary advancement with the most primitive species first and the most advanced last. The sequence order reflects the thinking at the time and, as ideas have changed, so too has the arrangement of species.

Look at the sequence used in Witherby’s Handbook (1938) based on that proposed by Dr. Hartert and it is quite unlike that with which we are familiar. It starts with Passerines and ends with Game Birds. Even that was at odds with the sequence proposed by Alexander Wetmore in vogue at the time but at least that had Divers first and Buntings at the end – something with which we are more familiar today.

Peterson’s Field Guide to the Birds of Britain and Europe (1965) used a sequence of bird families that is similar to that we are used to starting with divers but ending with starlings, orioles and crows rather than buntings. In his field guide Peterson bemoaned the lack of agreement, at least in Europe, on a definitive order of families! For many years, apart from placing the finches and buntings at the end, there was little change in the order of families.

In 2004 the divers were moved to sit after gamebirds, putting swans first. Then there was the raising of some subspecies to full species status e.g. Caspian and Yellow-legged Gull. This was followed by the raising of some sub-genera to genus status e.g. the splitting of Parus (tits) into Poecile, Parus, Periparus and Cyanistes and the splitting of Larus (gulls) into Larus, Xema, Chroicocephalus and Hydrocoloeus. These changes were all minor “tinkering” and didn’t alter the order of the families.

Recent advances in DNA studies have, however, revolutionised our ideas of family and species relationships; so much so, that the BOURC has brought out a new checklist. Changes this time largely affect the passerines, with some radical, and at first sight surprising, alterations. For instance wagtails and pipits now come between sparrows and finches. Warblers follow the hirundines with thrushes and chats after them. The fact that Long-tailed Tit is no longer with the other tits but comes after Cetti’s Warbler and that Spotted and Pied Flycatchers are now separated may take some getting used to!

The Club has always followed the BOURC’s lead on taxonomy and in this Report we show the species in their new order. Thank goodness we now have an index!

Thanks are due to Brian Stretch who retired as County Recorder for Worcestershire in 2010 and I am grateful to him for managing to finish the 2008 Report in time. Thanks also to Steven Payne who takes over from Brian as County Recorder for Worcestershire. We wish him well in that role.

4 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 John Harris, Colin McShane, Steve Turner and Derek Yalden for their articles; to Bert Coleman for another fascinating Ringing Report and to artists and photographers Phil Jones, John Judge, Dave Kelsall, Steve Seal, Dave Taylor and Steve Valentine for making their work available; and above all to the County Recorders and their teams:

Warwickshire: Jonathan Bowley Worcestershire: Brian Stretch, Report Writers & Compilers; Brian Stretch, Andy Warr and Edward Lea, Rarities Committee; Brian Stretch, Andy Warr, Dave Walker, Gavin Peplow, Rob Prudden and Terry Hinett. Staffordshire: Nick Pomiankowski, Report Writers; NDP, Neil Carter and Andy Lawrence, Rarities Committee; Steve Nuttall, ,Bernard Smith, Mark Sutton and Steve Turner and Site Report Compilers; Richard Berry, Mike Boote, Graham Evans, Frank Gribble, Pete Jordan, Steve Nuttall, Ray Perry, Brenda Scott; Data Input and proof reading; NDP, Mary Holley. West Midlands: Kevin Clements.

I would like to thank Mike Gaydon of Healeys and my wife Sue, for her support and help during the compilation of this report. I would also like to thank South Staffs Water who, through their advertisement on the back cover, have contributed to its production.

David Emley

5 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, Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2WD [email protected]

Worcestershire Steven Payne 6 Norbury Close, Redditch, B98 8RP [email protected]

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

West Midlands Kevin Clements 26 Hambrook Close, Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton, 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.

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

6 Birds and Weather 2008

A total of 234 species was recorded in the Region in 2008 cf. 242 in 2005, 239 in 2006 and 228 in 2007. Of this total there were no additions to the Regional list but Staffordshire had its first European Bee-eater, Worcestershire its first American Wigeon and - shire its second European Bee-eater after the first in 1886. In addition, Mediterranean Gull bred for the first time in Staffordshire (after an unsuccessful attempt in 2007) and Black-headed Gull in the West Midlands.

January began rather mild but overcast. Birds remaining from 2007 included Lesser Scaup at Draycote, Red-throated Diver and Black Redstart at Blithfield, two Great Northern Divers at Chasewater, six Wood Larks at Nochard, a Water Pipit at Grimley and a total eight Firecrests across the region. On the 1st three Smew were seen at Drayton Basset Pits, a Slavonian Grebe at Pool and a Firecrest at Earlswood. On the 3rd a Long-tailed Duck and a Rock Pipit were at Draycote and a Great Grey Shrike at Whatcote. For the next two weeks a series of low pressure areas and associated fronts moved in from the west bringing showers or longer periods of rain and occasional strong winds, with severe gales at times in exposed parts. On the 6th 23 Pink-footed Geese passed over Tittesworth while Blithfield hosted one Grey Plover and Belvide three. A Red-necked Grebe turned up at Draycote on the 9th and a Red-breasted Merganser on the 10th. On the 12th Iceland Gulls were seen at Chasewater and Draycote while a Black Redstart by Phil Jones Great Northern Diver arrived at the latter site and remained into February. A Water Pipit turned up at Blithfield on the 13th and another Iceland Gull at Chasewater and a Yellow-browed Warbler at Tatenhill on the 15th. The 16th saw a Snow Bunting on North Hill while on the 18th there was an impressive roost of 185 Magpies at Olton Mere! Following a brief spell of exceptionally warm weather around the 17th, there was a period of heavy rain with flooding in parts. A Firecrest was found at Lutley Wedge on the 19th while the roost of Pied Wagtails at Newcastle-under-Lyme reached 500. A skein of 77 Pink-feet passed over Tittesworth on the 20th while the 22nd saw two rarities; a drake American Wigeon at Westwood Pool and a Ring-billed Gull at Blithfield. The month ended with a few mild, dry days with cold nights and strong SW winds followed by rain. An Iceland Gull remained at Draycote from the 24th-31st and a Great Grey Shrike, found on Cannock Chase on the 25th, remained in the area until April 4th.

A cold front that moved southwards bringing some heavy bursts of rain, severe gale force winds and a drop in temperature, heralded the start of February. Five Mediterranean Gulls were at Chasewater on the 2nd while a Kumlien’s Gull at Throckmorton Tip on the 3rd roosted at Westwood Pools and later frequented the Draycote roost from 6th-9th. An early Sanderling was found at Whitemoor Haye on the 5th.The following week was wet again but became milder towards the end. Three Glaucous Gulls arrived at Draycote on

7 the 7th and remained into March and a Snow Bunting was seen at Salford Priors. On the 8th, a herd of eight Bewick’s Swans called at Bredon’s Hardwick, and an Iceland Gull was seen at Aqualate while a Great White Egret commuted between Caldecote and Hartshill STW. A Great Grey Shrike was found in the Swallow Moss/Revidge area on the 9th. The weather continued cold and cloudy with occasional sunny periods but was largely dry. Iceland Gulls were recorded at Dunstall Park on the 14th, Coton on the 15th, Draycote on 21st and Blithfield on the 22nd. A cold front moved south on the 24th bringing the first significant rainfall for a while. An early Sand Martin was seen at Doxey on the 23rd while on the 25th nine Bewick’s Swans visited Draycote and a Water Pipit arrived at Doxey and remained stay to the end of March. The month ended with rain and strong winds and on the 27th the first returning Avocet arrived at Upton Warren.

With temperatures about average, March was, according to the Meteorological Office, the wettest in since 1981! The month started as February ended, with heavy rain and strong winds. On the 1st a Red Knot was found at Chasewater and an Iceland Gull at Draycote, while two Iceland Gulls were seen on Throckmorton Tip. After a brief spell of clear and cold weather, rain and winds returned. The first Northern Wheatear of the year seen on the 7th at Cuckoo Bank was followed on the 9th by the first White Wagtail at Blithfield and first Little Ringed Plover at Westport on the 10th. Severe gales on the 10th heralded a period of more wet and windy weather. Five Waxwings were seen at Gornal on the 10th and a Firecrest at Brindley Heath on the 14th. The 15th saw an Avocet at Draycote, Scandinavian Chiffchaff at Upton Warren, Spotted Redshank at Doxey and a Black Redstart at Rugby Cement Works. From the 17th, rain cleared with much colder northerly winds spreading southwards. There was plenty of sunshine by day, but clear skies overnight allowed for some sharp frosts. Easter week was very cold. A White Stork wandered over North Staffordshire on the 17th. Scandinavian Rock Pipits were noted on the 22nd at Grimley and Blithfield while a Lapland Bunting arrived at Berry Hill on the 24th and remained for a week. After a cold start, the weather gradually became milder from the 25th as northerly winds were replaced by westerly winds. The 25th saw a flock of 53 Kittiwakes at Chasewater while two Red-breasted Mergansers were seen there the next day. The month ended a little quieter with some sunshine and scattered heavy showers. Avocets were seen at Marsh Lane NR and Fishers Mill on the 26th while a Firecrest was found at Upper Tean and Black Redstarts at Chasewater and the centre of Stoke-on-Trent. A Black-necked Grebe was found at Belvide on the 29th while the month ended with the first Willow Warbler at Brandon and 20 Waxwings at Aldridge on the 30th and two Black-necked Grebes at Blithfield on the 31st.

April had above average rainfall and was the coldest for five years. However it began fairly mild and wet. An Avocet was seen at Whitacre Heath and the first Ring Ouzels on Clent Hills and Darby’s Hill on the 2nd. The 3rd saw a Red-breasted Merganser at Belvide, a Black Redstart at Eastern Green and a widespread arrival of Yellow Wagtails. More migrants arrived with Common Redstart at on the 4th and Sedge Warbler at Napton Res on the 5th. Many folk awoke to two inches of snow on the 6th! However, with blue skies and sunshine, it didn’t last long but provided some stunning views. Five Common Scoters called at Blithfield and the first Reed Warbler was seen at Bittell. The following few days remained rather cool and showery with some frosts in parts. A Sanderling was seen at Uttoxeter Quarry on the 7th and a Water Pipit at Doxey on the 8th. The first Hobby of the year was seen at Brandon and a Siberian Chiffchaff at

8 Westport on the 9th. The first Swift was seen on the early date of the 10th at Napton Res while the first Common Whitethroat was seen on the 11th at Brandon. More migrants put in their first appearances on the 13th with a large flock of 21 White Wagtails at Salford Priors, Cuckoo at, aptly, Cuckoo Bank, Grasshopper Warbler at Brandon and Salford Priors and Tree Pipit at Salford Priors and Cannock Chase. Two Avocets called at Belvide on the 14th while the 16th saw a notable Franklin’s Gull at Draycote, Garden Warbler at Brandon, six Ring Ouzels at Clent Hills and 23 White Wagtails at Blithfield. With high pressure in the north on the 17th, an easterly airflow developed bringing showers, some heavy. On the 17th, the first Wood Warbler was seen at Tittesworth and Nightingale at Alvecote while there were seven Ring Ouzels at Knotbury and Blue-headed Wagtails at Salford Priors and Draycote. The 18th saw more arrivals with Lesser Whitethroat at Brandon and Whinchat at Coleshill, while the 19th saw Pied Flycatcher at Upton Warren but last of the winter’s Redwings at Fenny Compton. The 20th saw more Ring Ouzels with five at Bredon Hill and four at Baggeridge CP while 40 Yellow Wagtails were present at Blithfield and the last Water Pipit of the winter was seen at Salford Priors. Of particular note though were the three Common Cranes that roosted at Longdon Marsh on the 20th while wader migration was represented by a Grey Plover at Bredon’s Hardwick, and Curlew Sandpiper and Bar-tailed Godwit at Upton Warren. Easterly winds abated and the 23rd saw a passage of Arctic Terns with 277 at Draycote and 53 at Kingsbury. On the 24th there were 11 Avocets at Upton Warren and four pairs eventually nested there. From the 24th westerly winds returned bringing showers, sometimes heavy. A Sandwich Tern was found at Blithfield and the first Turtle Dove at Morton Bagot on the 26th. The 27th saw up to 25 Northern Wheatears at Berry Hill, a Little Tern at Bredon’s Hardwick, Nightingale at DMC Kineton and the last Brambling at Draycote. The month ended with a Black Redstart in West Bromwich on the 29th and a Sandwich Tern at Brandon on the 30th.

May was the warmest, on average, for nearly 100 years. However the month began with cloud and rain before high pressure set in bringing clear nights and warm days. The last Fieldfare of the winter was seen at Gaydon on the 2nd. The 4th saw the first Spotted Flycatcher at Whitacre Heath, a flock of 10 Sandwich Terns at Valley, Grey Plover at Whitemoor Haye and Red Knot at Clifton Pits and two Spoonbills at Alvecote but, the star of the show was a Bee-eater at Marsh Lane NR. There was more spice on the 5th with Montague’s Harrier at Abbots Salford and Stone Curlew at Shenstone. In addition there was a small passage of scarcer terns with Little Terns at Bredon’s Hardwick, Chasewater and Marsh Lane and Sandwich Tern at Belvide. A Grey Plover was seen at Drayton Bassett Pits on the 7th and Spotted Redshank at Ryders Mere on the 8th. The high pressure broke down Black-necked Grebe by Phil Jones briefly on the 9th and there were a few very heavy thunderstorms but temperatures remained high with recording 27°C! On the 10th a White-winged Black Tern was seen with Black Terns at Draycote while a pair of Black-necked Grebes was seen at Belvide and a Blue-headed Wagtail bred at Coldmeece. The 12th saw the first Nightjar on Cannock Chase and the Region’s second Bee-eater at Doxey! Further passage waders

9 were seen on the 14th with Grey Plover at Uttoxeter Quarry, Little Stint at Drayton Bassett Pits and four Wood Sandpipers at Upton Warren. A Great White Egret was seen at Blithfield on the 17th while the wader passage continued with two Sanderlings at Ryall Pits and eight at Drayton Bassett Pits, a Grey Plover and Avocet at the latter site and two Temminck’s Stints at Lower Moor. A weak front moved south on the 18th bringing cooler NE winds but it remained sunny. Further waders over the next few days included two Avocets at Croxall, Grey Plover at Salford Priors, Red Knot at Marsh Lane and three Wood Sandpipers at Kingsbury. From the 23rd unsettled conditions prevailed with showers or longer periods of rain, though it remained mild. Little Terns were seen at Draycote and Bittell on the 24th and Sanderlings at Upton Warren and Drayton Bassett Pits on the 25th. A Fulmar arrived at Blithfield on the 26th and remarkably remained there until it was found dead on June 6th. The 29th saw a Slavonian Grebe at Gailey which remained until June 1st. On the 30th a Quail and a Hoopoe were found at Berry Hill while the month ended with five Bar-tailed Godwits at Blithfield.

June was rather unsettled and changeable with only short spells of fine weather and mean temperatures lower than those of recent years. The first week was one of sunshine and showers with a few cold nights and Sanderling were seen at Salford Priors and Upton Warren, a Quail at Stockingford and Avocet at Throckmorton Lagoons. The 4th saw a Grey Plover at Belvide and a Pectoral Sandpiper there on the 6th. A ridge of high pressure on the 8th brought fine settled weather before rain on the 11th heralded a period of cooler conditions with a brisk wind and showers. Nine Black Terns were seen at Belvide on the 8th while the Region’s third Bee-eater was seen at Long Lawford on the 10th and at Brandon on the 22nd. On the 14th Quail were seen at Bruton and Watergall while an impressive flock of Crossbills at Hanchurch peaked at 120. A ridge of high pressure brought a brief period of warm dry weather on 23rd before cloud and showers returned. A Quail was seen at Shenstone on the 26th and Little Tern at Blithfield on the 27th. The month ended on a fine note, as high pressure extended northwards; it was pleasantly warm. A Hen Harrier was found at Royal Cottage on the 28th and a Little Tern at Dosthill on the 30th.

July was unsettled for the most part, although a fine and hot spell towards the end of the month came with some very heavy showers. The hot weather at the start of the month quickly gave way to heavy rain and thunderstorms, leaving cooler conditions. A Green Sandpiper was seen at Croxden Quarry on the 1st while on the 2nd a Spotted Redshank was at Blithfield and Caspian Gull at Silverdale Colliery. The next week saw heavy rain almost everywhere though it became lighter towards the 13th when a ridge of high pressure gave generally warm and fair weather. The 7th saw a Scaup at Belvide, Osprey at Blithfield and Avocet at Lower Moor. Another Scaup called at Bartley on the 9th while a Marsh Harrier was seen at Brandon on the 10th. On the 13th, Whimbrels were seen at Draycote and Tittesworth while a Quail was calling at Hales. It remained warm for the next week with a mixture of sunshine and showers. Four Common Scoters arrived at Upper Bittell on the 15th while three Sanderlings at Blithfield on the 17th heralded the onset of the autumn wader passage. The next few days saw Sanderlings at Draycote, Uttoxeter Quarry, Drayton Bassett Pits and Chasewater; Little Stints at Draycote and Grimley and Curlew Sandpipers at Drayton Bassett Pits and Blithfield. Two Black-necked Grebes were at Drayton Bassett Pits on the 20th and a Sandwich Tern at Upper Bittell and Black Redstart at Berry Hill on the 21st. From the 22nd much of the region saw temperatures

10 reaching the mid to high 20s on most days. This of course gave rise to thunderstorms with heavy rain and Pershore College recorded 59.0 mm on the 29th. Marsh Harriers were noted at Aqualate on the 24th and Blithfield on the 28th where 30 Common Buzzards flew south. A Little Tern was seen at Draycote on the 29th and Eurasian Bittern at Aqualate on the 30th while a Black-necked Grebe at Shustoke on the 31st remained into August. The month ended wet and breezy.

August was an exceptionally dull month and very unsettled with heavy rain or showers. For the first week low pressure covered the UK bringing showers or longer spells of rain and some of these were heavy with scattered thunderstorms. A Black-necked Grebe was seen at Blithfield on the 1st while wader passage continued with Sanderling at Coleshill on the 8th while on the 10th there was a Temminck’s Stint and Curlew Sand- piper at Salford Priors, 35 Dunlin at Blithfield and a Sanderling at Croxall. The 15th brought a brief respite from the rain before it returned on the 16th for another week. Red Knot were reported from Blithfield on the 15th and Clifton Pits and Belvide on the 16th. On the 17th 12 Red-crested Pochard were at Clifton Fulmar by Phil Jones Pits while 47 Black Terns and a Little Stint were seen at Blithfield. Wader passage continued apace with Sanderling at Draycote and Belvide and Spotted Redshank at Coleshill GP on the 19th, two Little Stints at Blithfield on the 21st, with 59 Ringed Plovers there on the 22nd. Red Knots were seen at Draycote and Chasewater on the 24th while a Grey Phalarope at Marsh Lane NR was flushed by an Osprey! The last week was generally cloudy and drier with, for many, the first glimpse of the sun for several weeks! On the 30th, a Red-necked Grebe was seen at Clifton Pits, 62 Black Terns at Blithfield and two Sandwich Terns at Belvide. The bird of the month was undoubtedly the juvenile Sabine’s Gull that arrived at Westport on the 31st and gave everyone superb close views.

The first half of September was unsettled but brighter and drier in the second half. The month started with an area of low pressure bringing slow moving weather fronts and their attendant showers or longer spells of rain which were heavy and thundery at times. Nine Turnstones were seen at Draycote on the 2nd while the 3rd saw a White-winged Black Tern at Blithfield (which remained to the 12th), Fulmar at Belvide and Manx Shearwater at Doxey. A flock of Shags at Draycote peaked at eight on the 4th while the 5th saw a Grey Phalarope at Shustoke, 59 Black Terns at Draycote and three Sandwich Terns at Belvide. A deep area of low pressure over the Region brought a period of heavy and thundery rain forcing down a variety of migrants including on the 6th; 51 Arctic Terns at Blithfield, 42 at Chasewater, 55 at Bredon’s Hardwick and 33 at Clifton Pits; a Wryneck at Bilton, the first Jack Snipe and last Grasshopper Warbler at Berry Hill, 18 Turnstones at Belvide and a Grey Phalarope at Blithfield. The 7th saw a Great Skua at Draycote, Fulmar at Blithfield, 10 Little Gulls at Belvide and 30 Yellow Wagtails at Draycote. An area of low pressure on the 9th brought another a period of heavy rain with a brief respite on the 10th before more weather fronts crossed the Region bringing more showers or longer spells of rain, heavy and thundery in places. On the 10th a Dotterel was

11 seen on North Hill, Grey Phalarope at Upton Warren and 10 Whinchats at Berry Hill. Another Grey Phalarope was found at Draycote on the 12th and a Spoonbill at Belvide on the 13th. Also on that day a count of 10 Dartford Warblers was made at a site in the West Midlands. The 14th saw the last Pied Flycatcher at Wood Hayes, a Wryneck at Inkberrow and Ring Ouzel at Essington Quarry. On the 15th a Honey-buzzard was seen over Knob and Marsh Lane NR and a Temminck’s Stint at Belvide. High pressure built across the Region from the 17th bringing a period of fine weather with some prolonged sunny spells and cold nights which lasted to the end of the month. On the 17th a Wryneck was seen at Lincomb and the last Wood Warbler at Draycote. A Honey- buzzard passed over Bentley Wood on the 19th, two Pectoral Sandpipers were at Lower Moor and Draycote had a very early Brambling. On the 21st further Honey-buzzards were seen at Guy’s Cliffe (four), , Draycote and Long Lawford with one at Chasewater on the 22nd. The first Redwing of the winter was seen on the 21st at Tittesworth while Berry Hill was host to 25 Northern Wheatears on the 22nd. A Firecrest was seen at Earlswood on the 23rd and a nice Yellow-browed Warbler at Sandwell Valley. A Red-backed Shrike was at Larford and the last Garden Warbler at Draycote on the 24th. The 26th saw five Rock Pipits at Draycote and the last Sedge Warbler at Whitacre Heath. Silverdale Colliery had a Ring Ouzel on the 27th while Brandon saw the last Common Whitethroat and Bilton had a Black Redstart on the 28th. A further Honey- buzzard passed over Upton Warren and a Black Redstart was seen at Doxey on the 29th. A series of weather fronts spread eastwards on the 30th giving a wet end to the month. The month ended with a Great Grey Shrike at Bedicoat which remained into October.

October was a month of above average rainfall and low temperatures and showers. It began with a north-westerly airstream bringing unsettled weather and low temperatures. The 1st saw two nice rarities; a Great White Egret at Elford and a Yellow-browed Warbler at Blithfield. On the 2nd, a skein of Pink-footed Geese passed over Black Bank, two Gannets flew over Henley-in- Arden and the last Willow Warbler was seen at Seeswood Pool. The 3rd saw the last Sand Martin at Alcester Heath while the first Fieldfare was seen there on the 4th; the same day that another Yellow-browed Warbler was reported near Wolver- hampton Science Park and a Black Redstart was seen at Gannet by Phil Jones Draycote. On the 5th the last Common Redstarts were seen at Common and Abberton; the last Tree Pipit at Draycote and a further Gannet at Longsdon. The 7th saw a Spoonbill at Marsh Lane NR and the departure of two more summer visitors; a Swift and a Spotted Flycatcher, both at Napton Hill. From the 12th a southerly airflow developed bringing milder conditions with occasional showers but also spells of sunshine. On the 10th a Great White Egret was reported at Blithfield and an impressive flock of 500 Greylag Geese at Marsh Lane NR on the 11th. More Pink-footed Geese (100) passed over Tittesworth on the 12th and a Red-breasted Merganser was seen at Abbots Salford. The 13th saw the last Ring Ouzel at Berry Hill and last Reed Warbler at Marsh Lane NR. The cold north-

12 westerly airflow resumed from the 16th bringing unsettled weather and further spells of locally heavy rain and showers interspersed with drier, brighter intervals. On the 17th a Firecrest was seen on Cannock Chase and a Great Grey Shrike arrived there and remained until the 22nd. A Shore Lark was seen at Upton Warren on the 18th while 11 Stonechats were counted at Doxey on the 19th. The last Whinchat was seen at Sutton Park on the 20th. The 21st saw a Long-tailed Duck at Blithfield, which remained into November, and a well-received Glossy Ibis at Belvide. Another Gannet was seen on the 22nd, this time at Chasewater, while a Honey-buzzard passed over Lillington. A further Gannet was seen at on the 23rd and an Iceland Gull at Draycote on the 24th. The last House Martin was noted at Marsh Lane NR on the 25th and a Snow Bunting at Worcestershire Beacon on the 27th. The end of the month saw much colder conditions with the first snow of the winter in some parts of the Region on the 28th. A Red Knot came down in rain at Brandon on the 28th while 155 Blackbirds were counted at Berry Hill but only 12 Stonechats on Cannock Chase. The last Barn Swallows of the year were seen on the 29th at Burston and Ladywalk while 96 Pink-footed Geese passed over Blithfield on the 31st.

November was largely mild at first, but turned much colder later with some sharp frosts but with average rainfall and sunshine. The month started unsettled with low pressure to the south-east giving rise to rain or showers, heavy at times. Winds were generally from the east bringing low cloud and drizzle. Birdwise the month got off to a good start with a Ring-billed Gull at Bredon’s Hardwick on the 1st. The 2nd saw 14 Bewick’s Swans and the first Water Pipit of the winter at Uttoxeter Quarry, a Red-breasted Merganser at Upper Bittell, two Red-necked Grebes at Draycote and a Purple Sandpiper at Belvide. A Firecrest was seen in a Rugby garden on the 3rd and a Slavonian Grebe at Westwood Pool on the 4th. Two Tundra Bean Geese called at Belvide on the 6th while Curlew Sandpipers were seen at Dosthill and Drayton Bassett Pits on the 7th. A period of rain and showers swept in from the west, often heavy and often accompanied by strong winds or gales, even severe gales at times. On the 8th a flock (peaking at 44) of White-fronted Geese arrived at Doxey and remained to the year’s end. A Red-breasted Flycatcher was an exceptional find in a Exhall garden on the 9th. A Red- Cattle Egret by Phil Jones breasted Merganser arrived at Lower Moor on the 10th while a Pale-bellied Brent Goose was at Chasewater and a Water Pipit at Essington Quarry on the 11th. After a brief mild spell on the 12th, further rain spread in from the west and there was a lot of low cloud with some bright spells. Day and night time temperatures were generally mild until the 16th when cooler conditions set in. An impressive group of Great Northern Divers at Draycote peaked at five on the 12th; four of these remaining in to 2009. Snow Buntings were reported there on the 12th and at North Hill on the 14th. A Great Northern Diver was seen at Blithfield on the 15th and a Firecrest at Alvecote and 12 Waxwings at on the 16th. The 17th saw the last Northern Wheatear at Dosthill, a Black Redstart at Lapley and a Slavonian Grebe at Chasewater. On the 18th

13 500 Pink-footed Geese passed over Morridge and a Great Grey Shrike was seen at Park Hall CP. The 22nd saw a marked change to much colder conditions with lying snow in some east coast counties but with mainly showers here and a good deal of sunshine. A Spotted Sandpiper was found at Tittesworth on the 22nd and it remained there until December 18th. Four Waxwings were seen at Codsall on the 22nd and Grey Plovers at Salford Priors and Draycote and 29 Kittiwakes at Blithfield on the 23rd. There was a brief respite from the cold on 25th/26th with a milder NW airflow. However the rest of the month was unsettled with rain and dense freezing fog. A Firecrest was seen at Meriden on the 26th while 250 Pink-footed Geese passed over Biddulph Moor and a Cattle Egret arrived for a short stay at Barton-under-Needwood on the 29th. Another Firecrest was seen, this time at , on the 30th.

December was generally cold for the first half then milder, mainly dry, towards Christmas before turning very cold by New Year. Rainfall was generally below average. The cold of November continued with temperatures struggling to rise during the day so a Snow Bunting at Blithfield on the 2nd must have felt at home! A Black-necked Grebe at Coton on the 6th remained to the 17th while an Iceland Gull was seen at Draycote on the 9th. The 12th saw a change to less cold but more unsettled conditions giving a period of very heavy rain for a time in many areas, with flooding reported in parts. It was windy ahead of rain before turning drier and colder again on 14th and 15th with a few showers. Three Bitterns were reported from Draycote on the 10th and Iceland Gulls at Dosthill on the 12th and Throckmorton on the 14th. Three Short-eared Owls were seen at Swallow Moss on the 14th and the second Ring-billed Gull of the winter at Westwood Pool on the 22nd. The end of the month/year was generally cold but mostly dry with some sharp frosts and fog, often persisting. Many water bodies were iced over. There was a sprinkling of Waxwings across the Region with 26 at Shutt Green on the 23rd, 23 at Basford on the 24th, 12 at Rugby and 21 at Droitwich on Christmas Day. Dark-bellied Brent Geese were reported from Uttoxeter Quarry on the 24th and Tittesworth on the 27th. Firecrest were reported on the 27th at Hams Hall and Norgrove Court. The 28th saw a Red-throated Diver at Draycote, two Iceland Gulls at Copmere and a Snow Bunting on Worcestershire Beacon. A Black Redstart was seen in Stoke on the 30th and the year ended with 91 Waxwings at Chasewater.

With thanks to the Meteorological Office’s Weather Log.

David W. Emley

14 Systematic List

The sequence of species and the scientific names follow those of The British List (British Ornithologists’ Union, 2010). 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.

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 CES Constant Effort Site Res Reservoir CP Country Park SF Sewage Farm GC Golf Course STW Sewage Treatment Works GPs Gravel Pit(s) UP Urban Park NP Nature Park WP Water Park

15 Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote – – – – – – – – 14 49 46 42 Coombe Abbey 10 12 9 12 8 47 53 59 65 57 15 12 Coton 31 42 – 24 59 72 150 206 34 20 53 22 Draycote 1 2 3 7 12 54 33 38 24 9 6 7 Bittell Reservoirs – 4 1 3 8 8 7 6 1 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 13 18 5 4 – 4 2 3 4 3 4 24 Grimley 2344247––5610 Gwen Finch Wetland 6 4 5 4 4 7 6 8 15 13 10 10 Kinsham Lake 6 11 10 7 2 5 3 4 7 18 16 13 Pirton Pool 3 2 3 6 2 13 17 19 18 9 2 8 Upton Warren 75554422669– Westwood Pool 28 1 10 10 2 20 20 16 20 6 2 10 Alrewas 93 15 9 – 9 10 – 6 12 – – – Barton GP – – – 26 6 5 20 – 18 7 – 83 Belvide 24 – 4 21 60 115 139 140 18 21 19 4 Blithfield 10 – 29 7 39 99 150 230 46 13 11 9 Chasewater 24 29 23 32 38 62 58 66 – 1 12 0 Copmere 35 20 19 8 4 1 5 4 6 3 2 0 Croxall NR 20 3 2 3 60 7 10 4 6 6 1 2 Doxey Marshes 15 16 11 16 28 17 8 15 15 9 12 7 Drayton Bassett Pits – – – – 20 57 64 49 174 47 – – Fisherwick & Elford GP 178 60 60 121 41 53 63 20 44 9 46 45 River Sow Baswich 10 11 6 6 12 – – – 5 6 26 21 Tittesworth 128324221111 Uttoxeter Quarry –227616––4746 Westport Lake 29 27 24 31 50 42 38 35 13 6 8 12 Whitemoor Haye 128 33 104 16 77 38 28 21 74 4 200 130 Marsh Lane NR 128 9 41312102327161036 Ryders Mere ––8–––2––––11 Smestow Valley 23–12––111253 WeBS 2007 557 514 684 578 644 660 839 843 650 523 859 776 WeBS 2008 534 301 331 364 339 725 670 1011 527 394 410 428

Warks About 30 breeding pairs were reported this year which was a similar total to last year, with nests (not all successful) at: Alcester, Alvecote, Brandon (three), Charlecote, Compton Verney, Dosthill, Draycote, Earlswood, Farnborough Park, Fisher’s Mill GP, Hawkesbury, Hodnell, , Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lighthorne Pools, Lower Radbourn, Mancetter, Marlcliff, Middleton Hall, Moreton Morrell, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood, Shustoke, Stockton, Whittleford Park and Wolston. Away from tabulated sites and the Avon in Stratford, where there were again no counts, the largest assembly was on fields by the River Avon at Church Lawford where there were over 50 on January 20th and 57 on November 17th. Other notable counts included 20 by the River Blythe at Coleshill on February 3rd, 17 at Brandon on 17th, 27 at Hodnell on February 28th and April 16th, and 16 at Napton Res on December 28th. There were very few counts from the Tame Valley away from Coton, with maxima of just 14 at Shustoke on September 10th, 21 at Kingsbury WP on 16th and 16 at Dosthill on October 27th. Worcs Records of nesting pairs were received from Grimley, where a pair and five cygnets were observed on July 14th, two pairs nested at both Gwen Finch Wetland and Lower Moor, a pair and seven cygnets were observed at Kemerton Village Pool on May 5th, one pair fledged two young at Ryall Pits, while two out of three pairs at Upton Warren

16 fledged broods of six and five. The only counts submitted away from the tabulated sites comprised seven and 22 at Holt on March 19th and April 25th respectively. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at the following sites (number of cygnets in brackets), Aqualate (two), Badger Heath (five), Barton GP (three in June reduced to two by the end of July), Blithfield, Chasewater where five pairs nested but only one brood of seven reported, Chatcull, Copmere, Crakemarsh Lake, Curborough, Doxey (five and six), Drayton Bassett Pits (five), Ford Green NR, Forest Banks, Gayton, Hales, Hatherton Reservoir (three), Ingestre (five), Kettlebrook Lakes three pairs bred, Maer, Mayfield – River Dove (two), River Tame/Anker one pair bred, Stafford River Sow (four, six, six), Stafford Castle (one), Stone, Tameside NR one pair bred, Tixall young fledged, Weston and Westport five cygnets of which three fledged. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across recorded a total of 44 birds in 12 of the transects and six of the watercourses: Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central and Wyndley to Bracebridge). The only breeding records received involved pairs at Blythe Valley CP, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane (two), Meriden Park Pool, Sandwell Valley (three), Smestow Valley, Steelpark Way, Stubbers Green and Walsall Arboretum. A total of 27 birds was counted at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th. The 25 birds counted in Smestow Valley on November 2nd constituted a site record.

Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus Frequent, though declining winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks There were reports of an adult at Draycote on February 21st RCM and a party of nine there on 25th several observers, while two visited Ladywalk on November 16th PSo. Worcs Eight adults at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 8th RAP et al., was the sole county record. Staffs Just one flock of 14 flying over Uttoxeter Quarry on November 2nd ABar was the only record in probably the worst year on record. These birds are in decline in their breeding grounds and this appears to be reflected in the reduced number of county records in recent years.

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Herds 459863341 Birds 16 10 41 44 17 15 10 13 14

W Mid During November, eight birds were reported at Sheepwash UP on 4th and an adult visited Marsh Lane NR on 27th GPR.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce or uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also a recent feral visitor. The last five years saw a huge increase in numbers with 2008 alone recording 187 birds. There were some large herds too; 50 being the largest.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 30 28 28 76 86 No. of birds 79 131 100 244 546

17 Warks Two were at Kingsbury on February 26th GAW and an adult flew north at Draycote on March 28th DCo, RCM. A good crop of autumn records included an adult at Lea Marston on October 22nd SMH, an immature at Draycote on 28th RCM, and two adults there on 29th JFCJ et al. Two more adults were seen at Brandon on November 1st JMR et al., while another bird stayed at Paget’s Lane, from October 31st- November 9th several observers. Worcs Two adults were discovered at Longdon Marsh on November 16th RAP. Staffs In January, one was at Alrewas on the 2nd, two were at Catholme on the 4th and two were at Whitemoor Haye from the 4th-9th before moving to Croxall NR from the 15th- 20th. These two returned to Whitemoor Haye on February 7th and 8th. Six flew over Doxey Marshes on the 10th and Catholme had two on the 24th. During March, on the 16th, a flock of 50 flew north over Blithfield at 8:45hrs and another similar-sized herd flew over Halmer End on the same date – the timings suggesting that these were different groups. The 17th found 26 resting on the water north of the causeway at Blithfield and at Dimmingsdale 14 were observed flying west. Fourteen also flew over Alton on the 18th. On the 22nd, at Belvide, there were nine resting on the water and nine were also seen flying over Cheddleton at 10:55hrs. On the 23rd two were on the River Dove at Uttoxeter. The last record, and only April sighting, was from Croxden Quarry on 5th, where two flew NNW at 19:05hrs. In the late winter period the first record came from Blithfield on October 6th where three were present, with one also being seen on the 29th. Continuing with October records, a juvenile was present on the Void at Silverdale Colliery on the 12th, three flew over Essington Quarry Pool on the 15th, Aqualate had four on the 16th increasing to seven on the 19th, two were at Tittesworth on the 17th with four on the 19th and at Uttoxeter Quarry five were seen on the 19th. Four adults at Belvide on the 27th were present from 15:30 to 16:14hrs when they flew off to the SE, three more were recorded the following day and two flew over Doxey Marshes on the 31st. November records began with two at Blithfield flying south over the dam on the 1st and next day 11 flew SW at 16:15hrs. One flew north at Little Stoke on the 2nd, six were at Uttoxeter Quarry on the 2nd while at Whitemoor Haye/Sittles one was present throughout the month with two on 30th. In December two adults and two juveniles were at Chasewater on the 3rd, three were at Essington Quarry Pool on the 6th, two were seen at Barton GP on the 7th and, presumably the same birds, moved to the Whitemoor Haye/Sittles area from 16th until year’s end and were also seen at Alrewas on the 20th. W Mid One bird was present at Ryders Mere on November 22nd CMas, DGl.

Whooper Swan X Mute Swan Warks An adult was in the Coleshill area from January 14th to the end of the month. The usual adult remained at Alvecote all year. W Mid One bird was seen sporadically at Marsh Lane NR during the winter months.

Bean Goose Anser fabalis Rare winter visitor (8/10). Staffs Two of the race rossicus – Tundra Bean Goose – were present at Belvide from November 6th-8th and put in a repeat appearance on 11th-12th SNut.

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.

18 A phenomenal increase in numbers over the past five years fuelled largely by birds moving around the foot of the Pennines in Staffordshire between increasing wintering populations in Lancashire and Norfolk. 2005 alone saw 11,308 birds.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 34 60 36 81 185 No. of birds 2209 2111 3910 3200 23430

Warks Two wary birds feeding in stubble with large numbers of feral geese at Salford Priors GP on September 28th and October 5th JJB were thought to be possibly of wild origin. A party of nine flew west at Robey’s Lane, Alvecote on December 13th RLS. Worcs The adult from December 2007 remained in the Lower Moor/Throckmorton area, being last observed on January 22nd RAP et al., while one, presumably the above individual, was at Bishampton on January 12th GHP. During the second winter period, a juvenile visited Grimley on November 2nd BRS et al. and presumably the same individual arrived at Clifton Pits on 8th AHo et al., where still present on 9th, then moved to the Lower Moor/Throckmorton area on 12th and remained to the years end RAP et al. A party of four adults, plus a Pink-foot type hybrid were at Clifton Pits on November 15th and 18th RM, MJI et al. and Bredon’s Hardwick held four on December 19th MAS et al. Staffs After the mass movements of recent years, a quiet year with few large skeins. January began with one at Tittesworth on the 1st; one was at Baswich feeding with Canada Geese by the River Sow on the 3rd while on the 4th one at Blithfield remained until 25th, presumably feral. Tittesworth recorded the following skeins: 23 on the 6th followed on the 20th by two skeins totalling 77 birds. On the 22nd a single bird was at Radford/ Rickerscote. The only other early winter period records were 10 at Fisherwick/Elford GP on February 22nd, two flying west over Belvide at 17:30pm on March 23rd while one at Tittesworth on April 5th was regarded as feral. Single birds, all presumably feral, were reported from: Westport from February 17th-25th and June 6th-July 28th, Blithfield from May 24th to October 1st, Belvide from July 30th until the year end, Branston GP from August 6th to September 19th and at Barton GP from September 7th to November 22nd. Sightings for the late winter period began in October on the 2nd when 21 flew WNW over Black Bank with 12 the next day in the same direction and also on the 3rd 11 flew over Berry Hill. On the 12th 100 flew west over Tittesworth while on the 18th three flew SE over Black Bank, six flew SW over Anslow on the 25th and on the 30th 96 flew over Blithfield and 250 over Caverswall. In November on the 1st, 68 flew SE over Tittesworth while the 18th saw 300 over Morridge/Swallow Moss and the 19th brought 20 NW over Cheddleton. The last records of the year were also in November with 45 on the 25th flying north over Black Bank at 08:00hrs and 250 west over Biddulph Moor at 14:50hrs on the 29th. W Mid A skein of 41 birds flew over Long Knowle towards Essington on November 22nd GAC.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor or escapee. Despite a slight rally, numbers over the last five years have fallen again. The number of records is up, but many of those are of flocks less than five; half the numbers recorded in the 1980s.

19 1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 49 51 49 20 31 No. of birds 444 231 353 380 236

Warks Two were feeding with Canada Geese on pasture at Draycote on January 3rd RCM et al. There were more sightings from here in the autumn, with three including a juvenile on pasture on November 8th JFCJ, RCM, GPR et al. and five in flight on 20th RCM et al. An adult of uncertain origin was at Brandon with the Greylag flock on December 16th, 18th and 20th JMR et al., before returning in the New Year. Worcs A flock of five discovered at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 8th decreased to three the next day, these were then observed thereafter on many dates until April 5th RAP et al. The only other sighting comprised an adult, which flew north over Holt on December 9th BRS. Staffs County birders were treated to a large, lingering flock at Doxey, 29 of which arrived on November 8th peaking at 44 from 9th-16th CHaw et al. Thereafter, up to 35 remained until the year’s end.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 173 82 30 30 34 29 73 187 234 244 232 210 Charlecote area 25 6 10 18 8 14 105 122 7 8 105 3 Coombe Abbey 98 43 39 18 79 49 45 63 75 77 15 74 Edstone 111 108 2 2 11 – 1 3 49 16 – 25 Kingsbury 50 – – – – – – 100 156 – – – Morton Bagot – 90 10 8 22 8 15 28 19 – 46 – Salford Priors GP – – – 3 – – – 61 144 93 2 – Bredon’s Hardwick 136 66 63 28 4 12 21 46 97 99 81 72 Gwen Finch Wetland – 2 2 4 – – – – 2 – – 14 Kinsham Lake 1 7 17 50 35 10 21 86 101 20 40 90 Lower Moor 80 65 60 45 18 12 96 102 112 120 140 256 Pirton Pool – 8 6 14 10 33 3 6 – – – – Upton Warren 3 6 10 13 12 5 1 16 7 8 – 2 Alton ––––––––100––– Barton GP – – – – – – 11 – 50 114 138 – Belvide 136 72 – 5 3 23 161 181 255 228 221 177 Blithfield 108 86 25 3 3 91 11 179 239 103 112 185 Coal Brook, Hales 241 – – – – – – – – – – – Doxey Marshes 1 2 2 2 5 1 2 18 1 20 40 1 Drayton Bassett Pits 50 – – 2 – – – 1 – – 2 – Fisherwick & Elford GP – 9 24 23 5 7 21 10 – – 24 – Gerrard’s Bromley 14 – – – 10 – 51 – – – – – Uttoxeter Quarry – – – – 5 – 3 11 120 85 – 103 Whitemoor Haye – 36 11 5 12 18 13 44 40 7 100 12 Berkswell 103 – 38 27 – – 11 – – – 12 79 Dunstall Park 2 2 4 1 2 1 – – 1 – 2 2 Marsh Lane NR 250 88 20 2 30 12 149 353 404 501 426 350 WeBS 2007 88 274 188 188 207 316 295 499 426 820 444 245 WeBS 2008 389 352 196 160 164 270 377 789 591 532 542 506

Warks Broods or nests were noted at Alvecote, Brandon (at least five), Charlecote GP (two), Compton Verney (two), Morton Bagot and Studley STW. Considering the rapid rise in numbers and range of this species in recent years, this must represent considerable

20 under-recording. Counts were again high during the post-breeding period, with record counts at both Brandon and Salford Priors GP. Other good sized counts included a maximum of 62 at Seeswood Pool on February 2nd, 88 at Bearley on 17th, 28 in a field at Studley Castle on March 27th, and 26 at Alvecote on September 14th-15th. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Bredon’s Hardwick, where broods of nine and three were noted on May 30th, three pairs frequented Church Lench Pools, four pairs nested successfully at Kinsham Lake, a pair fledged six young at Lower Park Farm Pool and a pair hatched five goslings at Upton Warren, but all failed to fledge. A pair was resident at Arrow Valley Lake between April 24th-July 11th. Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised one at Chateau Impney on January 28th, Hewell Grange held three on February 6th, then four on 21st and March 6th, a pair frequented Arrow Valley North between February 10th-June 8th, with three here on March 30th and two were at Bittell Reservoirs on February 20th and March 27th. Nine visited Holt on April 17th, Lower Park Farm Pool held 16 on August 17th, whilst during the second winter period, 17 flew over Little Comberton on November 1st and one was at Arrow Valley North on December 14th. Staffs Breeding occurred at Byrkley Park where six pairs hatched 25 goslings but the survival rate was low, Chatcull, Gerrard’s Bromley, Slindon and at Tameside NR where one pair raised four young. Lloyd Drumble held 250-310 birds from November-December. W Mid A pair attempted to breed at Marsh Lane NR, but was unsuccessful. Birds were also present during the breeding season in Sandwell Valley. Otherwise, small numbers of birds were noted at Fens Pools, Lutley, Park Lime Pits, Ryders Mere, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Tocil Wetlands, West Park, Westwood Heath and Windmill Lakes. The count of 501 birds at Marsh Lane NR on October 11th surpassed the previous site record of 496 on November 9th 2005.

Greylag Goose x Canada Goose Warks Up to four were in the Brandon and Coombe Abbey area through much of the year. In the lower Avon valley a bird was at Abbots Salford in April-May, with up to three at nearby Salford Priors GP from August-October. One was at Alvecote on March 21st. Two in the Charlecote area on September 14th were Canada x domestic Greylag crosses. Worcs Two birds seen on numerous occasions with Canada Geese in the Lower Moor/Throckmorton Lagoon area between August 5th and the end of the year (c.40 dates), the same birds were also seen on occasions at Kinsham Lake, Bredon’s Hardwick, Upton Warren and Pirton Pool, proving the wide roaming nature of the Canada Goose flock within Worcestershire. W Mid Hybrids were seen at Marsh Lane NR on a number of dates, with three birds on October 11th and November 8th, and one at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th and November 12th.

Grey Geese Warks A skein of around 70 flew high south-east over Lower Radbourn towards dusk on January 6th and a party of 11 were seen in flight over Ladywalk on December 30th. Both flocks were considered to involve White-fronted Geese. Worcs Six grey geese observed flying south from Bredon’s Hardwick main pit on November 16th, were considered to be either Bean or White-fronted AWa.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Abbots Salford 210 360 260 200 165 190 300 220 500 370 385 380 Brandon 117 109 88 67 61 66 52 222 220 149 80 118 Charlecote/ 375 52 53 24 24 12 7 – 778 – 55 100 Coombe Abbey 65 72 19 20 48 27 34 52 61 69 6 15 Draycote 225 152 58 14 – 174 241 180 345 33 103 440 Bittell Reservoirs 54 14 30 22 17 101 103 290 – – 218 – Bredon’s Hardwick 144 88 44 67 – 37 75 278 17 7 271 465 Grimley 350 521 250 52 42 63 68 356 446 377 534 620 Gwen Finch Wetland 58 54 41 25 25 47 1 1 2 41 25 49 Kinsham Lake – 17 23 13 9 4 38 25 285 50 6 0 Pirton Pool –5385695564502130– 219 Upton Warren 25 9 24 24 18 10 65 325 400 250 98 6 Westwood Pool 80 2 8 6 10 30 32 6 50 220 4 250 Alrewas – 300 27 – 27 150 – 350 – – – – Barton GP – – – 41 41 65 142 – 450 600 750 – Belvide 136 – 50 – 40 110 106 314 398 239 135 109 Blithfield 300 966 3 9 – 170 439 410 208 84 339 9 Branston Water Park 31 12 32 31 38 149 150 33 27 37 – – Burton-on-Trent – – – – 14 – 50 – 17 71 21 – Chasewater 62 55 20 13 37 59 55 210 – – – 62 Copmere 24 2 31 20 4 16 6 – 2 9 150 – Croxall NR 280 91 – 30 – 250 185 – 250 400 – 200 Croxden Quarry – 14 – 3 15 55 39 160 240 150 – – Doxey Marshes 481 334 169 152 130 307 359 345 700 967 987 562 Drayton Bassett Pits – 93 84 – 7 – – – – – – – Fisherwick & Elford GP – 116 208 72 105 48 28 186 30 38 701 13 Radford/Rickerscote 440 256 – – – – – – – 200 400 400 River Sow Baswich 38 – 75 – – – – 250 – 65 184 72 Rudyard Lake 150 118 22 – 25 80 100 2 60 100 8 140 Tameside NR – – – – – 14 175 135 – – – – Tittesworth 213 187 128 83 171 384 283 261 51 150 120 198 Uttoxeter Quarry – – –15181824933317049130 Westport Lake – 154 – 30 70 246 216 145 117 108 122 113 Whitemoor Haye – 405 87 13 13 318 341 500 415 370 7 466 Dunstall Park/ Smestow Valley 60 170 30 8 p p 130 255 200 114 165 – Marsh Lane NR 48 15 13 6 29 27 6 80 127 31 76 38 Netherton Reservoir – 22 6 5 3 – – – – 1 5 4 Sandwell Valley 100 80 110 104 60 30 80 150 80 100 80 100 WeBS 2007 3955 3222 2432 1802 1261 3363 3410 3653 5055 4218 3121 3863 WeBS 2008 2997 3151 1842 1257 1035 2669 2593 4004 4330 3388 4659 3813 Warks A survey of the reserve area at Brandon produced a total of 28 nests but few of these were successful, with not more than six broods reported at any one time. Counts of nests from elsewhere were generally on the low side, with a maximum of only four recorded at Charlecote GP, Dosthill Lake and Earlswood Lakes. In addition a creche of 31 juveniles was noted at Abbots Salford on May 23rd. There were several exceptionally high post-breeding counts, with the peak of 1200 in stubble by Salford Priors GP on August 31st JJB being a county record. The best counts from the Tame Valley this year concerned a peak of 348 at Shustoke on August 28th and just 250 at Kingsbury on September 16th, although this area was poorly counted. Other counts of around 100-180 came from Alvecote, Arbury Park, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Earlswood, Edstone, Ladywalk, Seeswood Pool, Whitacre Heath NR and Wootton Wawen.

22 Worcs Nesting pairs observed at many localities across the county. Away from the tabulated sites, counts during the first winter period comprised 94 at Arrow Valley North on January 6th and 120 at Hewell Grange on February 21st. A successful breeding season boosted post-breeding flocks, including 208 at Holt Prairies on August 11th, 344 at Lower Moor on 19th, 520 at Holt Prairies on October 25th, 220 at Throckmorton Lagoons on November 13th and 465 at Lower Moor on December 12th. Staffs Breeding was reported from (number of goslings in brackets), Agardsley Park, Aqualate, Baggeridge, Barton GP (15), Bearstone, Belvide (25), Blake Hall Fishery (four), Byrkley Park (10), Chasewater (nine), Coldmeece, Copmere, Croxall NR, Croxden Quarry (15), Curborough, Deep Hayes CP, Dimmingsdale (four), Doxey Marshes (12 nests with 15 surviving goslings by the end of June), Drayton Bassett Pits (six), Edingale, Ford Green NR, Gayton, Gerrard’s Bromley, Hales Hall (five), Hartley Green, Kettlebrook Lakes (five), Little Outwoods, Longsdon Mill Pond, Madeley, Maer, Rudyard Lake, Seighford, Shirleywitch, Slindon, Stanley Pool, Sturbridge, Sudbury, Sugnall, Tameside NR (seven pairs raised 36+ goslings), Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge, Upper Hanyards, Uttoxeter Quarry two broods (10) three of which were hybrids with a domestic goose on the site, Weston, Westport five pairs raised a total of 49 and Cudmore Fishery at Whitmore. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 429 birds in 32 transects and 11 watercourses: Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Keeper’s Pool and Wyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also noted during the breeding season at , Berkswell, Blackheath, Bumble Hole LNR, Chadwick End, Cornets End, Dudley No.2 Canal, Dunstall Park, , Fens Pools, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton Reservoir, Park Lime Pits, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Smethwick Hall Park, Stambermill, Stubbers Green, Tipton, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR, West Smethwick Park and Westwood Heath. Away from tabulated sites, high counts included about 160 birds at Smethwick Hall Park on February 3rd, 198 at on June 22nd, 215 at Stubbers Green on July 21st, 290 at Ryders Mere on August 21st, 393 at Stubbers Green on September 7th and over 200 between Park Lime Pits and Riddian Bridge on November 22nd. Smaller numbers of birds were also seen at Babb’s Mill Lake, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Coundon Wedge, , Grapes Pool, Greets Green, Hydes Road Pool, Knowle, Ladymoor Pool, Lutley Wedge, Meriden Park Pool, Minworth STW, Ocker Hill and .

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon feral visitor or escapee. Warks Two feral birds stayed in the Brandon-Coombe Abbey area from 2007 until May 10th, with one present until the end of the year. The only other record involved a bird at Abbots Salford from March 25th-April 18th. Worcs All records are believed to refer to feral birds. One was observed regularly in the Lower Moor/Throckmorton area between January-June, plus again at Lower Moor between August-December, while one was at Bishampton on January 12th, Bredon’s Hardwick produced counts of 10 on April 20th, one on May 22nd and 23rd, two on August 18th, eight

23 on 22nd and 23rd, five on 24th and 25th, seven on 30th and three between September 6th-13th. Gwen Finch Wetland held singles on April 29th, May 2nd, 10th, 12th and June 14th, 12 were at Kinsham Lake on September 2nd and one at Hewell Grange on November 26th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Blithfield – – – – – 2 – 64 13 – – – Doxey Marshes 9 10 7 3 – 1 – 10 3 14 13 15

One pair bred successfully. Only two records from the early winter period were not in the table above: one at Tittesworth on April 2nd and two at Uttoxeter Quarry on May 31st. In the later winter period Ingestre held 10 on August 14th and one on September 7th, two were at Croxden Quarry on August 23rd while at Belvide two were present for most of September with a further one from November 5th to the 8th. The largest flock away from Blithfield was 55 at Croxall NR on the September 20th. On October 7th, one was at Radford Meadows and in November Copmere held one on the 16th while two were at Coldmeece Pools on the 19th. At Uttoxeter Quarry there were 40 on the 14th December with 16 on 24th and from the 26th to the 29th between 40 and 45 were present. W Mid A flock of 21 birds was noted at on January 3rd and March 7th. Single birds were seen at Fens Pools on March 23rd and Sandwell Valley on June 3rd.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers continue to fall and have reached their lowest level for 25 years.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 20 38 27 23 21 No. of birds 86 109 74 37 30

Warks A bird circled Draycote early on March 15th RCM and another flew north at Shustoke on April 9th KWim. Two were at Draycote on November 23rd RCM. All records referred to birds of the dark-bellied race. Worcs Six individuals recorded in the county, the first two of the dark-bellied race being discovered at Throckmorton Lagoons GHP et al., where they spent most the morning, then were relocated at Westwood Pool WDu et al., in the late afternoon on January 2nd. A dark-bellied adult frequented Ryall Pits between May 15th-18th GHP et al., with the same individual at Clifton Pits on 25th and 26th AHarl, BHar, AHo et al. More significant however was a pale-bellied juvenile, the first of this race to be recorded in the county, discovered on an arable field between Clifton Pits and Old Road South, Kempsey on September 21st AHarl, AHo et al., being observed here or at Clifton Pits until 28th. Finally, two dark-bellied birds were watched for 20 minutes in a stubble field at Grimley on November 16th MJI, before flying south. Staffs Pale-bellied birds are extremely rare in the county, so it was disappointing that one photographed at Chasewater on November 19th JHor was a very brief visitor and flew off shortly after its arrival. The only previous pale-bellied birds were at Belvide on December 14-15th 1984 and October 15th 1987 and at Chasewater on October 11th 1998.

24 The remaining visitors were all dark-bellied birds: one at Belvide on December 12th K. Aslett per SNut, another at Uttoxeter Quarry on 24th and 29th RPow and a third at Tittesworth on 27th SGib.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Rare feral visitor or escape; rare breeder (9/10). Warks A bird was at Abbots Salford on February 21st-22nd BGP, with probably the same at nearby Salford Priors GP on April 13th, August 31st, September 28th and October 5th JJB. Worcs A pair at Bredon’s Hardwick, first observed in November 2008, continued to show on a regular basis, between January 2nd-March 5th and between July 15th-November 24th. Singles were seen at Rous Lench on January 1st and February 2nd, Lower Moor on January 16th, Throckmorton Lagoons on 19th, Clifton Pits on 27th, Kington on February 10th and 14th, Clifton Pits on October 19th and again in the Lower Moor/Throckmorton area between October 26th-December 17th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate – 5 2 2 4 7 2 – 2 – 2 2 JCB North Lake –216––––––––9

Breeding occurred at JCB North Lake where two broods of seven and three were present in March. These birds were not part of the collection there. Suspected breeding also occurred at or near Aqualate. Reports from other sites came from Belvide with one on March 14th and 29th, two at Forton on 23rd, two at Blake Hall Fishery on April 27th and again on May 5th and 30th, One was at Cheadle on October 27th-28th while four were seen at Croxden Quarry on October 4th.

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 9232411842–––93 Brandon 232472–1121– Coton/Lea Marston 1 2 2 2 1 – – – – 1 – 6 Dosthill/Kingsbury 6 6 9 6 5 2 – – – – – 11 Draycote 13456––111–11 Ladywalk area – 3 6 5 2 – – – – – 4 5 Salford Priors GP –222432––––– Bredon’s Hardwick 3 21 20 19 – – – – – – 4 10 Clifton Pits –––32––––––3 Gwen Finch Wetland 11 4 11 4 – – – – – – – 1 Longdon Marsh 4 3 2 – 2 13 11 – – – – – Lower Moor – 4 2 4 4 2 – – – – – 2 Upton Warren 256674322–22 Westwood Pool 2302–––––3–– Aqualate – 5 4 22 – – – – – – – – Barton GP –––10245–2–53 Belvide 226244132241 Blithfield 4 3 12 6 8 6 3 13 1 – – –

25 JFMAMJJASOND Branston Gravel Pits – 8 8 7 14 – 13 4 2 – 3 – Croxall NR 3 4 3 2 6 4 4 – – – 1 – Croxden Quarry 2––211–11––– Doxey Marshes –––222––––4– Drayton Bassett Pits 16 14 7 12 15 21 – – – – 2 18 Tittesworth – – 1 3 – – – – – – – – Uttoxeter Quarry – 2 3 2 4 3 – 2 – 2 – – Westport Lake 5––––––4–2–– Whitemoor Haye –2143––6––1– Marsh Lane NR 456513––––32 WeBS 2007 24 57 47 47 66 7 26 10 2 6 8 7 WeBS 2008 3365371395 – 1 – 4 5 6 Warks The only broods noted this year were at Alvecote, where three pairs reared eight young. Pairs were noted at several additional sites in the Tame Valley to those listed in the table, but without any reports of confirmed breeding. Another breeding attempt at Salford Priors GP also met with failure. Away from these areas the only records concerned singles at Napton Res on March 8th and Abbots Salford on May 5th, with a juvenile at Lawford Heath GP on September 21st. Worcs Breeding pairs were observed at Longdon Marsh, where 11 young were noted on June 23rd and nine young on July 10th and at Lower Moor, where nine hatched, but all failed to fledge. Away from the tabulated localities, singles were noted at Ryall Pits on January 2nd, Grimley and Ham on 26th and Grimley on March 3rd, a pair were present at Kinsham Lake on 20th and April 10th, one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 24th, a pair at Upper Pool on 25th and five at Ryall Pits on 27th. In May, singles were noted at Pinvin on 2nd, Holt Prairies on 4th and Throckmorton Lagoons on 5th, a pair were observed at Ripple Pits on June 15th, while Grimley held a juvenile on July 11th and three on August 30th. Staffs This year’s breeding reports came from Barton GP where a pair hatched three young in June with one surviving until at least September 13th; at Branston GP a total of 11 young were hatched in July; at Croxall NR a pair hatched two young in June but only one was surviving in July and Drayton Bassett Pits produced two broods of nine and six. W Mid A pair raised three young at Meriden Quarries. Single birds visited Ryders Mere on February 19th and Dunstall Park on 26th. On April 14th, there were two birds at Cornets End and two at Berkswell, where there were also singles on November 3rd and December 19th.

Ruddy/Cape Shelduck x Shelduck Worcs An adult was noted with a Common Shelduck at Bredon’s Hardwick between November 22nd-December 6th.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and visitor. Warks Abbots Salford Pool again dominated the records, although there was no repeat of last year’s exceptional numbers. Reports included two males on January 8th and 22nd, one male on February 17th, two on July 25th, up to four during September 7th-18th, and one on November 15th. Reports from elsewhere included a male on the Avon floods at Wasperton on January 13th with presumably the same bird further upriver at Barford on February 24th; and single males at Seeswood Pool on April 22nd and at Brandon on May 6th, 10th and June 7th. A pair was at Priors Hardwick during May but without any evidence

26 of breeding, while three males were in Packington Park from June 16th-20th. Autumn records included a female at Edstone on September 4th, a pair at Lower Radbourn on November 16th and December 13th, and a female at Draycote on November 27th and then Brandon on December 8th. Worcs Successfully breeding pairs were reported from along the between Kempsey and Worcester, where a female was observed with three well grown young on June 26th, while a female with four young were noted at Old Yarr, Redditch on May 17th, 20th and June 23rd. Though no other young were reported, a reasonably strong population was recorded in the county, with sightings during the first winter period and breeding season coming from 24 localities across the county. The most regular sightings came from along the Dowles Brook and at Trimpley Reservoir during this period, with one or two pairs observed along Dowles between January 25th-May 10th, with an additional count of five drakes and three ducks on April 19th. Trimpley held two drakes on January 4th and 6th, a pair on 21st, two pairs on 24th and a pair on March 12th and April 3rd. Elsewhere, Pool held a female on January 1st, then three on February 11th, a pair were noted on the at Powick Bridge on January 5th, February 9th and 11th, then a drake on March 27th, one was at Upton Warren on February 1st and at Wood, the flooded riverside attracted two drakes and a duck on March 8th and two drakes on April 13th. South of the county, three drakes and two ducks were noted at Beckford Lakes on March 16th, a pair flew over Broadway on 27th and four were at Eckington Meadows on 28th. Other reports comprised a pairs at on April 3rd and 9th, plus at on 5th, while Astwood Bank held a drake on 12th, a pair were on Winnal Stream at Lincomb on 13th, a drake was noted on a small garden pool at Kempsey on 25th and 29th, a pair were at Court on May 1st and along the River Avon at Birlingham, a pair were observed on 2nd, with further sightings of the female here on July 10th, 17th, 26th and 27th. Throckmorton Lagoons held a drake on May 5th, a drake was on the River Avon, between Birlingham and Great Comberton on 6th, a female on the River Avon at Pershore on 11th, two pairs at Broadway Gravel Pits on 14th, a drake at Upper Bittell Reservoir on June 5th and a female at Furnace Mill Fishery, Wyre Forest on 13th. No birds were reported in July, but from early August a female was noted at Upper Arley on 6th and September 13th, while Trimpley Reservoir or the adjacent River Severn held six on August 10th and September 27th, 20 on 28th, five on November 26th and 13 on December 3rd. One was reported from Longdon Marsh on August 24th, a drake was at Upton Warren on September 8th and 9th, six at Old Yarr on 14th, then five drakes here on December 21st and six on 27th and a drake was observed along the River Stour at Caunsall on October 10th, 31st, November 1st, 24th and 26th. A drake was noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on October 11th and November 11th, a female was seen from Powick Bridge on October 18th, followed by a drake on 26th, November 5th and 11th, Kyre Pool held six on 11th, Upton Warren a female on December 1st and Clifton Pits a drake on 14th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Blithfield – – – – – 1 – 1 4 – – – Branston Gravel Pits––1–––323––– Brookley’s Lake – 2 – – – – – – – – 13 65 Dunstall 14 – – – 1 – – – – – – – Great Gate Pools – – 2 2 – – 4 – – – – – Tittesworth 2 2 2 1 7 – 1 – 2 4 2 2 Trentham Gardens Lake – – – 2 – – – 1 – 5 – –

27 There were four confirmed reports of breeding this year. These came from Branston Gravel Pits where a female with two juveniles were present on July 4th, Crakemarsh Lake had a brood on June 14th, Great Gate Pools had a brood of four on July 19th and at Shugborough a female with five young was seen on June 16th. Birds probably bred too at Bearda, Dunstall, Ecton, Slindon, Trentham, Wettonmill and Whitmore though no reports of young were submitted. Maximum untabulated counts were 22 at Whitmore Hall on February 27th, nine at Swynnerton on the 20th, seven at Whitmore-Bent Lane on June 5th and seven at Betley on December 21st. Reported in smaller numbers from a further 15 sites. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, a drake was reported on March 26th and May 23rd, whilst a duck stayed from August to December.

2007 Erratum Staffs The monthly maxima in the 2007 report table showed Shoveler not Mandarin. The table below shows maxima for selected sites in 2007.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 1–––––––11–1 Brookley’s Lake 14 – – – – – – – 3 – 18 98 Dunstall 4 9 – 6 – – – – – – – – Tittesworth 11222–1–4142

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 113 100 130 4 – – – – 14 13 44 50 Alvecote 205 135 125 5 1 – – – 70 106 100 100 Brandon 163 21 2 – – – 1 1 44 60 45 29 Charlecote/Wasperton 92 58 35 – – – – – 2 10 48 70 Coton/Lea Marston 20 46 – – – – – – 1 3 38 – Dosthill/Kingsbury 120 63 7 2 2 2 – – 12 125 95 120 Draycote 315 250 150 2 – – – 2 70 10 62 160 Hodnell/Lower Radbourn 120 100 44 4 – – – – – 14 58 72 Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath 131 150 141 5 2 2 – – 113 283 79 400 Shustoke 67 82 103 – – – – – 3 – 30 46 Bittell Reservoirs 60 2 4 – – – – – 1 2 2 2 Bredon’s Hardwick 800+ 2500 187 13 – – – – 22 3 700+ 489 Chateau Impney 118 116 122 – – – – – – 55 70 105 Gwen Finch Wetland 65 60 58 – – – – 65 120 125 130 150 Kington 63 70 – – – – – – – – – 46 Kinsham Lake 85 46 2 – – – 1 – 12 180 1000 1080 Upton Warren 7 2 – – – 1 1 2 11 12 4 4 Westwood Pool 6 – 101 1 – – – 2 11 30 94 40 Alrewas – 160 74 – 7 – – – 40 – – – Barton GP – – – – – – – – 10 10 35 80 Belvide 154 138 60 10 1 1 1 5 33 66 95 85 Blithfield 320 577 638 16 4 1 2 3 47 123 111 345 Chasewater 15 121 11 – – – – – 12 28 8 4 Copmere 117 85 16 – – – – – – 1 10 26 Croxall NR 170 100 42 5 – – – – – 4 18 14 Doxey Marshes 13 – 4 – – – 1 – 50 15 12 13 Drayton Bassett Pits 21 – 10 – 1 4 – – 100 100 80 37 Fisherwick & Elford GP 4 50 27 – – – – – 1 9 21 30 Milford Bridge 52 46 – – – – – – – – – –

28 JFMAMJ JASOND Radford Meadows 80 – – – – – – – 60 – 40 – River Sow Baswich 5 1 8 – – – – – – – – 45 Shugborough Park 36 – 70 1 1 – – – – – 40 15 Tittesworth 5282452 – – – 1275026285 Uttoxeter Quarry 35 – 26 – – – – – 2 10 60 80 Whitemoor Haye 213 300 175 10 – – – – 39 16 173 260 Edgbaston Pool 50 – – – – – – – 2 48 17 11 Marsh Lane NR 281 280 150 2 – – 1 9 86 150 186 269 Ryders Mere 200 213 142 p – – – 43 p p p 204 Sandwell Valley 12 22 20 2 – – – – p 3 2 p WeBS 2007 2525 2596 1180 23 5 2 2 11 110 543 1295 1842 WeBS 2008 1910 2552 1492 74 2 3 4 5 223 660 1413 2044

Warks There was the usual scatter of breeding season records, including a pair at Kingsbury. A male was also seen at Wormleighton Res on July 3rd. Wintering flocks were again on the low side at most waters, particularly in the autumn/early winter period. Away from the main tabulated sites the best counts involved 20 at Toft Farm Lakes on September 18th, 15 at Priors Hardwick on December 6th and 18 at Napton Res on 28th. In addition up to 70 (from Draycote) were frequently on floodwater by the River Leam at Leamington Hastings during the last quarter. Up to ten were also noted during the year at: Bedworth Nook, Charlecote Park, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coombe Abbey, DMC Kineton, Earlswood, Farnborough Park, Grandborough, Morton Bagot, over Rugby, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings came from Longdon Marsh, with counts of 80+ on January 13th, 50 on 20th, 750 on 24th, 300+ on 27th and 92 on February 18th, while Pirton Pool held three on January 13th and at Lower Moor, 50 roosted on floodwater on 15th. Late summer and autumn reports comprised two at Grimley on July 24th, one at Pirton Pool on August 17th and two at Holt on September 26th, while during the second winter period, Ryall Pits held one on October 19th, then two on December 14th, Grimley held three on October 29th, one on November 16th, three on December 3rd and four on 14th, 36 were noted at Clifton Pits on November 18th, 80 at Longdon Marsh on 25th and 107 there on December 30th. Staffs Reports came from a total of 39 sites across the county. Untabulated counts included 100 at Heaton on February 16th, 70 at Branston GP on March 16th, 66 at Barton GP on December 29th, 60 at Rickerscote on January 19th, 45 at Bateswood on January 1st, 40 at Tixall on January 4th, 33 at Swallow’s Mere on March 11th and 30 at Milford on January 24th. W Mid The only other sightings involved two birds in Goscote Valley on January 2nd, one at Dunstall Park on February 15th and a pair on November 2nd, a pair at on March 30th and four birds at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th. 2007 Addendum Warks There was a peak of 113 at Shustoke in January.

American Wigeon Anas americana Rare vagrant. (3/10) Worcs An adult drake accompanying a female Eurasian Wigeon was a great discovery during the late afternoon at Westwood Pool on January 22nd TMH et al., though had unfortunately departed before first light the next morning. This sighting surprisingly constitutes the first county record and one that has been long overdue.

29 Gadwall Anas strepera Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Uncommon breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote 35 28 17 18 16 11 8 24 47 56 79 71 Brandon 55 46 43 6 5 8 5 20 35 53 42 29 Coleshill GP – – – – – – – – – 50 90 – Coombe Abbey 10 4 – – – – – – 4 6 8 3 Coton/Lea Marston 36 51 4 9 – 4 – 15 14 13 57 246 Dosthill/Kingsbury 60 – – 12 10 20 12 25 38 95 110 – Draycote 14 14 14 4 2 4 3 3 6 11 8 3 Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath 74 42 56 10 – – – – 21 89 94 151 Napton Res – – – – – – – – – 5 8 12 Salford Priors GP 28 19 15 11 6 6 3 3 7 19 14 16 Bredon’s Hardwick 1 4 – – – – – – – – 6 3 Grimley 4 30 24 8 4 8 14 18 12 4 10 36 Gwen Finch Wetland – – – – – – 1 – – 8 6 10 Kinsham Lake 10 9 10 4 – – – – – 7 2 10 Upton Warren 2 3 6 10 3 2 11 5 3 – – 2 Westwood Pool 904544222733 Aqualate – 5 4 1 2 – – – 1 – – 9 Barton GP – – – 10 6 25 13 – 20 17 – 8 Belvide 96 87 57 60 34 57 47 56 71 58 82 67 Blithfield 6 – 11 3 8 20 20 19 7 5 2 3 Branston Gravel Pits–5–3668––––– Branston Water Park 7 12 – 1 – – – – 1 8 – – Chasewater 1 15 4 – – – – 2 1 3 7 15 Coley Brook Marsh – – 9 4 – 6 – – – – – 9 Copmere 10236––––––––1 Croxall NR 2 1 4 5 3 2 1 1 – – 3 – Cuckoo Bank –65––––––––– Doxey Marshes 6 3 – 1 1 1 2 3 – – 2 – Drayton Bassett Pits 1 1 1 1 1 60 7 – – – – – Fisherwick & Elford GP 4 6 4 – 12 7 – – 4 8 4 9 Tittesworth – 3 2 1 – – – – – – – – Whitemoor Haye –5396––4–––– Edgbaston Pool 8 2 – – – – – – – – – 2 Marsh Lane NR 25146131322354220333420 Ryders Mere 10 12 12 3 – – 1 4 p p p 8 Sandwell Valley 2 8 11 12 p 6 4 p 14 p 4 4 WeBS 2007 309 268 146 163 128 117 81 151 220 184 247 213 WeBS 2008 196 292 206 120 130 117 43 133 235 369 418 350 Warks Broods were noted at: Alvecote (two, eight young), Kingsbury (one, three young), Ladywalk (one, five young), and Salford Priors GP (one, one young). In addition a pair may have attempted to breed at Abbots Salford. Counts from the species main wintering range in the Tame Valley were again erratic but included a county record 246 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on December 8th SMH. Away from tabulated sites, maxima included eight at Hodnell on February 28th, 12 at Abbots Salford on March 18th and up to 12 at Shustoke in September, while reports of smaller numbers came from Charlecote GP, Earlswood, Lower Radbourn, Marlcliff, Morton Bagot and Seeswood Pool. Worcs Successful breeding pairs were reported from Grimley and Upton Warren, where a pair hatched 12 young on June 13th, which reduced to 10 by the end of July. Away from the tabulated sites, first winter period sightings comprised 22 at Lower Moor on January 20th, 10 at Throckmorton Lagoons on March 5th and two at Pirton Pool on 9th. Holt held nine and six on April 25th and May 3rd respectively, while during the autumn and second

30 winter period Ryall Pits produced counts of five on September 29th, two on October 19th, 18 on December 14th and 10 on 30th. Four were noted at Clifton Pits on November 15th, while Throckmorton Lagoons held 10 on December 8th and 18 on 30th. Staffs Breeding was reported from the following sites: at Aqualate (numbers unknown), at Branston GP a brood of seven on July 27th, at Belvide two broods of five and seven in early July, at Coley Brook Marsh a female with four ducklings on June 26th and at Drayton Bassett Pits a brood of six in late June reduced to five by early July, and at least three more broods in July. Smaller numbers were reported from another 12 sites. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, seven or eight pairs hatched a minimum of 31 ducklings, most of which survived to fledging, and three pairs bred in Sandwell Valley, raising ten young. Other sightings involved two birds at Sheepwash UP on January 19th and April 16th, with four on 23rd, two at Dunstall Park on 20th, one at Netherton Reservoir on May 23rd and 16 at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th. Eurasian Teal Anas crecca Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer, but a rare breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 60 95 65 30 2 1 2 10 22 60 55 80 Brandon 117 125 80 31 4 12 26 90 113 178 138 158 Coton/Lea Marston 20 42 – 1 – – – – 4 23 42 50 Draycote 135 50 30 6 2 – – 10 24 15 30 100 Kingsbury area 45 – 23 15 2 12 5 – 29 35 30 – Ladywalk/Whit Heath 35 89 84 12 – – 1 10 102 130 95 159 Salford Priors GP 170 200 61 33 2 4 8 75 112 104 100 93 Bittell Reservoirs 23 16 33 4 – – 3 1 – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 100+ 150+ 46 7 – – – – 8 – 42 35 Grimley 4248262––1–41948 Gwen Finch Wetland 361 250 120 23 1 3 3 25 28 146 95 250 Kinsham Lake 8 39 28 – 1 – – – 9 36 5 3 Longdon Marsh 450 – – – – – – – 200 – 230 105 Lower Moor 65 24 70 2 1 – – – – – – – Upton Warren 110 54 63 26 3 3 5 43 130 90 49 67 Westwood Pool 31 12 10 16 – – 1 3 6 55 57 102 Alrewas – 24 14 – 19 – – – – – – – Astonfields Balancing Lake 8 – 13 – – – – – – – – 42 Barton GP – – – 20 1 – – – 142 240 324 530 Belvide 271 175 48 22 2 5 19 87 148 300 300 364 Blithfield 136 90 87 34 2 16 37 79 311 292 76 225 Burston –40––––––3407– Cannock Chase – Milford 45 6 – – – – – – – – – – Chasewater 3 9 7 – – – – 3 3 14 8 8 Croxall NR 168 – – 5 1 – 2 1 70 150 2 300 Doxey Marshes 234 164 134 39 4 7 6 28 263 270 179 140 Radford Meadows 50 – – – – – – – 30 – 170 – R. Sow Meadows, Baswich 14 18 8 2 – – – – 5 – 11 4 Rudyard Lake 12 3 5 – – – – 6 50 30 1 20 Tittesworth 95 39 26 15 2 3 5 9 26 30 51 65 Uttoxeter Quarry – – 6 7 – 1 1 13 8 16 55 24 Whitemoor Haye 91 10 3 2 – – – – – – 57 239 Goscote Valley 30 30 15 3 – – – – 7 13 5 13 Marsh Lane NR 135 65 33 21 3 5 6 16 89 63 117 110 Ryders Mere 85 112 63 12 – – – p p p p 109 Sandwell Valley 15 8 12 11 – 2 p 4 15 22 6 30 WeBS 2007 1216 1403 973 295 6 10 16 93 557 976 1974 1632 WeBS 2008 1494 1039 717 190 7 42 14 253 978 1066 911 1620

31 Warks Wintering numbers continue on the low side. Maxima away from tabulated waters included 40 at Morton Bagot on September 28th and 67 on floodwater at Hampton Lucy on December 15th, while counts of 15-30 were noted at Abbots Salford, Charlecote, Church Lawford, Farnborough Park, Hartshill STW, Knightcote, Middleton Hall Pool, Napton Res, Priors Hardwick and Wasperton. Worcs Very small numbers were observed between the beginning of June and mid July at Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Lickmoor Wetland, Ryall Pits (two pairs) and Upton Warren. Away from the tabulated sites, a pair were noted at Kyre Pool on March 7th, Pirton Pool on April 6th and Holt on 25th, whilst autumn and second winter period counts comprised 14 at Ryall Pits on September 13th, which increased to 80 by 18th, 60 flew over Bredon Hill and 25 were at Clifton Pits on 29th, with the latter locality hold 85 on November 15th, 230 on 18th and 140 on December 26th. Ryall Pits held five on October 19th, 40 on December 5th and 80+ on 14th, while at Wood Norton Wetland, 120 were noted on November 29th and 85 on December 30th. Staffs A pair bred in the Lower Tean area. In December there were 120 at Hales and 240 on the River Dove at Fauld. Reported in small numbers from a further 32 sites not listed above. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley, but no nesting attempts were noted. Away from tabulated sites, up to seven birds were seen at Berkswell, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Fens Pools, Goscote Valley, Mushroom Green, Sheepwash UP and Stubbers Green during the first winter period, and at Blythe Valley, Bracebridge Pool, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Meriden Park Pool, Mushroom Green, Olton Mere, Smestow Valley and Stubbers Green in the second.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 70 54 33 24 47 58 83 178 61 42 61 78 Coombe Abbey 233 215 95 32 110 92 74 263 312 322 205 139 Coton/Lea Marston – 55 – – – – – 45 30 45 110 – Draycote 300 125 73 41 – – 90 316 180 133 47 91 Earlswood 146 152 64 88 – 112 145 128 137 143 110 211 Edstone 97 46 30 8 12 – 49 117 28 98 – 32 Ladywalk 192 159 – 41 – – – – – 183 163 188 Lower Radbourn – – 30 – – – – – 220 252 229 60 Salford Priors GP 200 110 100 60 47 85 73 136 180 255 300 320 Shustoke 48 68 41 – – – 110 161 – – – 42 Bittell Reservoirs 53 31 31 30 10 45 101 47 76 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 110 88 100 58 – 41 76 88 47 456 264 104 Grimley 22 52 58 48 31 – 51 – – 67 42 38 Gwen Finch Wetland 44 35 20 14 20 37 51 65 120 65 40 35 Kinsham Lake 52 60 40 44 17 41 55 85 120 42 61 12 Pirton Pool 62114241019289 4 8 517 Upton Warren 112 51 37 35 20 97 70 130 405 80 60 101 Westwood Pool 20 10 10 8 10 2 193 41 20 80 63 84 Alrewas – 85 8 – – 24 43 38 54 – – – Barton GP – – – 24 35 105 70 – 283 336 426 420 Belvide 290 40 40 25 47 68 239 301 171 239 263 251 Blithfield 217 146 120 70 153 469 1250 1020 417 256 586 475 Branston Water Park 30 26 20 37 27 34 27 51 96 45 – – Brookleys Lake – 37 – – – – – – – – – 600 Chasewater 124 138 148 90 78 188 258 297 – 25 94 –

32 JFMAMJ JASOND Copmere 63 15 14 12 12 145 209 156 87 65 40 100 Croxall NR 166 – – 30 – – – 63 – – – 10 Croxden Quarry 13 40 27 13 10 30 21 50 50 47 – 14 Doxey Marshes 183 121 94 62 117 192 175 228 345 172 323 221 Fisherwick & Elford GP 138 115 91 81 68 106 600 720 531 655 223 586 Rudyard Lake 122 151 44 – 74 116 134 121 171 103 159 110 Tamworth – 144 67 – 24 – 36 – – – 30 57 Tittesworth 87 63 56 128 137 162 144 181 276 150 166 153 Uttoxeter Quarry 250 67 35 60 110 111 70 300 178 250 280 300 Westport Lake – – – 10 20 16 142 185 131 124 102 102 Whitemoor Haye 53 – 6 16 44 11 30 36 113 10 203 157 Bumble Hole & Warrens Hall LNRs 40 48 44 26 35 31 29 – – – – 28 Fens Pools 248108103266333562018 Haden Hill Park 52 21 47 50 5 20 – – – – 100 – The Leasowes 36606441324348– – – – – Marsh Lane NR 62 49 42 15 45 91 101 118 150 106 155 110 Mary Stevens Park 50 120 50 64 36 60 – – – – – – Netherton Reservoir 15 14 14 15 10 26 58 27 30 20 33 41 Sandwell Valley 52 30 48 41 30 18 30 25 50 40 40 50 Sheepwash UP 52 32 37 18 16 24 42 46 26 21 25 25 Stubbers Green 72 63 42 25 29 73 142 137 108 68 – 61 Walsall Arboretum 118 162 123 – 66 82 166 – – – – 198 WeBS 2007 3037 2372 1921 1944 1749 2105 2855 4012 4455 4597 5440 4676 WeBS 2008 3111 2183 1663 1073 1167 2343 2953 4916 4543 4330 4187 4208 Warks A fairly average breeding season was apparent, with sites holding five or more broods including Abbots Salford (five), Alvecote (“many”), Brandon (nine), Earlswood Lakes (ten), Napton Res (seven), Salford Priors GP (11) and Shustoke (five). The largest count away from the tabulated waters was 800 at Abbots Salford on August 31st, although this is a site where many captive-bred birds are released for shooting. Elsewhere maxima at sites holding more than 100 included: 200 at Hodnell on January 6th, 109 at Middleton Hall Pool on 14th, 130 at Kingsbury WP (north) on September 16th, 125 at Farnborough Park on November 4th, 112 at Wormleighton Res on December 12th and 120 at Compton Verney on 20th. Worcs An excellent breeding season was recorded at Upton Warren, while elsewhere broods were reported from Bodenham Arboretum (two broods) Grimley, Holt, Lower Moor (two newly hatched broods of two and six noted on November 3rd), Lower Park Farm Pool and Ryall Pits. The only notable counts away from the tabulated localities comprised 70+ at Longdon Marsh on September 7th and 26 at Lower Park Farm Pool on November 29th. Staffs Breeding was reported as follows, number of ducklings in brackets: Barton GP (15), Belvide at least two broods, Beresford Dale (eight), Blithfield seven broods one total - ling 11, Dimmingsdale one brood, Doxey Marshes at least four broods, Drayton Bassett Pits (10), Gnosall Canal (18), Hales Hall Pool (13), Keele University (six), Silverdale Colliery (eight), Stableford (six), Sugnall Park (three), Tittesworth (six), Uttoxeter Quarry (23), Weston Jones (four), Westport (23) and Whitemoor Haye (11). Larger untabulated counts were 65 at Keele University on September 2nd, 64 at Rudyard on the 7th, 60 at Alton on the 15th, 80 at Holden Lane pools on the 27th, 70 at Longsdon on October 5th, 82 on the River Tame/Anker on the 19th, 70 at Tameside NR on October 20th, 70 at Radford Meadows on both January 19th and November 4th, 183 at Kettlebrook Lake on December 14th and 50 at Himley Park on the 15th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 497 birds in 59 of the transects and all of

33 the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts away from tabulated sites included 50 birds in Smethwick Hall Park and 124 in West Smethwick Park on February 3rd, 142 in Sutton Park on 24th and 78 on May 11th, 130 in Elmdon Park on March 24th and 180 on August 11th, 118 in Cannon Hill Park on June 22nd, 50 in King George VI Park on 27th, 80 at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th and 60 in Smestow Valley on December 15th. Northern Pintail Anas acuta Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant, rare in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote 1––1–––121–1 Ladywalk 1 – – – – – – – – 2 – 2 Aqualate 2 3 – – – – – – – – – – Belvide 22––––––1051– Blithfield 4 3 3 4 – – – – 12 15 3 3 Doxey Marshes 6–––––––5–11 Drayton Bassett Pits 5 – – – – – – – 2 1 – – Marsh Lane NR 4––––––110––– Warks A poor year, with Draycote attracting most birds where there were extreme dates of April 12th and August 12th. In addition there was a midsummer record of a female at Alvecote on June 15th. Other reports involved a male at Brandon from January 2nd-4th, a female at Kingsbury on 27th, two at Abbots Salford on February 15th, single females at Brandon on October 13th, Lower Radbourn on November 16th and Hampton Lucy on December 15th, and a pair at Coton on 24th. Worcs The only summer record comprised a pair at Grimley on June 23rd. During the first winter period, Lower Bittell Reservoir held a drake on January 1st and between 24th- 31st, Westwood Pool held a drake on 7th, followed by five drakes and two ducks on 9th, a pair on February 5th and three on 21st, while at Bredon’s Hardwick a drake was observed on January 13th, then seven on February 8th and a drake on 16th. Floodwater at Longdon Marsh attracted counts of 17 on January 12th, 10 on 13th, 100 on 16th, 220 on 17th, 200+ on 19th and 20th, 500 on 24th and the maximum of 502 on 27th, the Grimley/Holt area held seven birds on 19th, with a pair still present at Grimley on 23rd, while Clifton Pits held two drakes and a duck on 20th and 26th, 24 on 27th, plus three on February 9th and 24th. Other February sightings comprised two pairs at Grimley on 5th, Grimley held a pair on 16th, a drake on 17th and 20th and a pair again on 21st and 22nd, plus a drake was at Upton Warren on 19th. In March at drake was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 9th and 19th, a pair was at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 18th and a pair at Lickmoor Wetland on 27th. The first autumn bird was a female at Westwood Pool on September 8th, while other September sightings comprised a drake at Bredon’s Hardwick on 10th, a female at Throckmorton Lagoons on 17th, a female at Lower Moor on 20th, Clifton Pits held two drakes on 21st and 24th, seven on 27th and six on 28th, 18 were at Longdon Marsh on 22nd and two at Kinsham Lake on 26th. From October, small numbers were resident at Clifton Pits until December 14th, with three individuals noted in October, six in November and three in December. Elsewhere, Bredon’s Hardwick held a female on October 12th, five on November 14th, six on 15th, three on 30th and a pair on December 3rd, Upton Warren held

34 one on October 19th and a drake on December 21st, Grimley held a drake on October 19th, a pair on December 6th and a drake on 18th, while at Westwood Pool, four were observed on October 24th, followed by a female on 28th, two on 31st, a drake and two ducks on November 7th and a drake on 19th. Five were noted at Kinsham Lake on October 30th and November 8th, Lower Moor held a pair on 12th and 13th, 65 and 61 were at Longdon Marsh on 14th and December 16th respectively, a pair was at Gwen Finch Wetland on November 19th, five at Lower Bittell and one at Upper Bittell Reservoirs on December 1st and a pair at Pirton Pool on 11th. Staffs Numbers during the first winter period appear generally low with only single- figure counts reported from the larger waters. Floods in the Radford Meadows attracted the largest number of birds with 20 present on January 19th. Birds were noted well into April with the final date being the 22nd when four were at Blithfield. A colour-ringed (and so probably escaped) pair in eclipse plumage was at Barton GP on July 12th, this being the only summer record. Returning birds were first noted at Blithfield on September 3rd when a single was followed by two birds on the 6th and 10 were noted at Belvide on the 7th. Counts made during the latter part of the year also suggest that fewer birds were present in the county with numbers being only half that of the previous year. Away from the tabulated sites birds were noted at a further eight sites. W Mid The flock of ten birds at Marsh Lane NR on September 11th was two more than the previous highest total in September 2005. One bird visited Sandwell Valley on November 22nd.

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, but rarely breeding. Very rare in winter. A notable change in fortunes with a 100% increase on the last 5-year period.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 98 235 243 115 308

Long-term average: April 1st (65) to October 2nd (63) 8-year average: March 25th (–5 days) to October 16th (+14 days) First arrivals were a pair at Branston GP on the early date of March 16th, well ahead of the next on April 8th at Alvecote, and the last was sighted at Burston on September 25th. Warks A female at Alvecote on April 8th was the first spring record. Subsequent reports included a pair at Brandon from April 18th-26th, with a male again on May 4th; a male at Salford Priors GP on May 11th and a pair at Alvecote from June 11th-15th. Post-breeding records comprised two at Draycote on August 13th, one on the Morton Bagot scrapes from 13th-17th, three at Toft Farm Lakes on September 4th, with a juvenile at Salford Priors GP on 7th and an eclipse male there on 14th. The absence of records from Tame Valley waters was surprising. Worcs All but one record involved spring passage birds, the first two individuals being drakes at Kinsham Lake on April 19th. Upton Warren held pairs on 27th and May 11th, drakes were noted at Grimley on April 27th, May 6th and 9th, a female was at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 30th, while at Holt, a drake was recorded on 11 dates between May 2nd-18th. This same individual visited Westwood Pool on May 6th and 13th and another drake was observed at Ryall Pits on 10th and between 15th-18th. The sole autumn record comprised an eclipse drake at Bittell Reservoirs on July 26th, 29th, 31st and August 4th.

35 Staffs First noted on March 16th when an early pair was at Branston GP, but not reported again until April 13th when a pair was at Drayton Bassett Pits. Pairs were also noted on the 17th at Gailey and on the 20th at Chasewater. During May two drakes and a duck were at Doxey on the 1st and a pair was seen here inter mittently throughout the month and was confirmed as breeding during June, although no young were successfully Garganey at Brandon, Steve Seal fledged. A single male was at Belvide on May 6th followed by another from 15th-30th; one at Whitemoor Haye on May 10th-14th was joined by a second on the 12th and further bird was seen there on the 29th. At Drayton Bassett Pits drakes were seen on May 11th, 20th and on June 7th. Return passage commenced on the last day of July both at Branston GP and at Blithfield, the Blithfield birds likely to have then been continually present until August 23rd, with a maximum four being noted on August 11th and 14th. An immature/female was at Burston on September 25th, this being the final record of the year. W Mid A pair was seen at Clayhanger Marsh on March 26th and one bird was reported in Sandwell Valley on August 19th.

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 2 4 2 1 – 2 1 4 – 5 – Alvecote 108 8 2 2 6 61217471516 Brandon 109 107 93 52 8 9 5 44 67 54 50 119 Coombe Abbey 5 – – – – – – 12 29 56 45 5 Coton/Lea Marston 2 14 2 – – – – – 2 9 15 20 Draycote 38572–651253148 Earlswood 81362–––––123 Kingsbury 45 – 84 38 6 2 1 25 51 75 – – Ladywalk area 55 42 101 25 – – – 50 – 84 64 15 Salford Priors GP 15 – 3 3 2 – – 10 5 2 2 6 Bittell Reservoirs 1 4 – – – – – – 14 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 7 – – – – – 1 8 – 19 10 Grimley 28 30 26 2 – – 1 – 9 20 83 32 Gwen Finch Wetland 31 4 9 6 2 – – 2 18 35 36 18 Kinsham Lake 6 13 10 – – – 6 11 20 35 8 13 Pirton Pool 3 11 10 – 2 – – – 2 – 1 40 Upton Warren 68 16 43 29 6 6 1 17 66 90 64 11 Westwood Pool 97 10 18 6 1 1 2 7 10 70 81 80 Aqualate – 45 15 32 – – – – – 130 – 9 Barton GP – – – 1 – – – – 32 15 25 2 Belvide 30 15 27 26 6 5 13 30 41 58 27 60 Blithfield 2 – 10 5 7 5 – 6 4 11 3 11 Branston Gravel Pits – 34 – – – – – – 30 5 – –

36 JFMAMJ JASOND Chasewater – 1 4 2 – – – – 1 2 6 6 Coley Brook Marsh – – 19 4 – – – – – – – – Copmere 4 1 2 7 – – – – 3 6 – 2 Croxall NR 3244–321212– Doxey Marshes 29 20 20 12 3 9 1 12 58 53 35 26 Drayton Bassett Pits – 18 – – 10 2 1 – 50 120 130 – Fisherwick/Elford GP 9 10 11 – – – – – – 20 – 1 Radford Meadows 31 10 – – – – – – 12 5 4 7 Tittesworth –––2–––21121 Uttoxeter Quarry 2–2–––12––25 Westport Lake 1–2–––641153 Whitemoor Haye 18 – – – – – – – 7 5 10 5 Edgbaston Pool 21 3 3 6 – – – – – 15 15 8 Marsh Lane NR 100 32 34 31 3 5 8 11 37 34 42 31 Ryders Mere 26 p p – – – – 1 p p 16 P Sandwell Valley 18 20 6 8 – – p 5 11 12 10 24 Smestow Valley 2 11 15 6 – – – 1 6 2 11 16 WeBS 2007 310 244 149 59 7 14 23 124 383 520 467 297 WeBS 2008 407 320 309 133 32 14 10 114 257 539 501 291

Warks A cold weather count of 148 at Draycote on December 31st was exceptional for this water. Otherwise counts were rather below average for recent years. Shustoke had good numbers during September with a peak of 60 on 6th. Other counts of five or more included maxima of five at Hodnell on January 6th, eight at Morton Bagot on March 2nd and five at Seeswood Pool on April 17th in the first quarter, with seven at Morton Bagot from August 2nd-7th, six at Newbold Comyn on October 22nd, and nine at Napton Res on November 25th in the post- breeding period. Reports of from one-three also came from: Bedworth Nook, Charlecote GP, Edstone, Hampton Lucy, Kin- warton, Lawford Heath GP, Lower Radbourn, Bury and Whittleford Park. Worcs Away from the tabu - lated sites, reports during the first half of the year at Lower Shoveler at Brandon, Steve Valentine Moor comprised 29 on January 14th, 55 on 15th, 25 on 20th and a male on May 6th. Elsewhere, one was at Arrow Valley North on January 17th, 50 and 40 at Longdon Marsh on 20th and 27th respectively, Hewell Grange held a pair on February 17th, then four on March 20th and April 3rd, Throckmorton Lagoons held 24 on March 5th and a drake and two ducks were noted at Holt on May 9th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised three at Ryall Pits on August 31st, a drake at Longdon Marsh on September 7th, with 13 here on October 20th, 16 at Clifton Pits on November 25th, six at Hewell Grange on 26th, nine and 18 at Ryall Pits on December 14th and 30th respectively and 24 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 26th. Staffs During the first winter period numbers seemed considerably lower than those of the same time in the previous year, with the highest counts occurring at Belvide on January 12th, at Radford Meadows on January 19th, at Doxey on January 26th, Branston on

37 February 19th, and Aqualate on February 18th. A pair bred at Drayton Bassett Pits where two chicks were seen on July 26th and may have bred at Doxey but there were no confirmed sightings of any young. In the second part of the year numbers failed to reach the highs of 2007, particularly at Belvide, although the autumn peak was clear at Aqualate which held 130 birds on October 11th and the same number were also reported at Drayton Bassett Pits on November 14th. A further 14 untabulated sites also held birds during the year. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, a probable female with seven young from July 12th-14th may have been a Mallard with a misshapen bill. The January count constituted a record total for the reserve, exceeding the previous maximum of 71 in February 2006. Other sightings involved a bird at Fens Pools on January 3rd and two on February 27th, four in Goscote Valley on January 16th, seven on February 1st and one on March 16th, three at Sheepwash UP on February 2nd, one on March 30th and April 5th, and five on December 30th, one at Netherton Reservoir on February 15th and two on December 31st, and singles at Rattlechain Mere on March 15th and Olton Mere on July 31st and December 19th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. A remarkable increase in numbers over the past five years with even a flock of 12 in 2008!

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 15 71 75 37 137 Warks A female at Seeswood Pool on January 30th NDBC was the only report during the first quarter. A small influx in late summer included a male at Salford Priors GP on June 22nd JJB, a female at Kingsbury from 28th-July 6th several observers, an eclipse male at Alvecote on July 23rd AAr, RLS, and a female at Draycote on 30th-31st JOat et al. Two juveniles were in the Coton/Lea Marston area on August 16th-17th with one remaining until at least September 4th SMH et al., before being relocated at nearby Ladywalk on 8th per SLC. The only early winter report concerned a male at Draycote on December 7th RCM et al. Worcs The only reports during the first winter period came from Kinsham Lake, where a drake was present on January 2nd GHP et al. and a pair on 31st, February 8th, 10th, 14th- 16th many observers. An impressive flock of 12, 11 being females/juveniles, arrived at Clifton Pits on August 17th and were still present on 18th DREW et al., with two or three birds remaining over a three week period, the final sighting being a lone immature drake on September 7th. An eclipse drake at Pirton Pool from August 19th-22nd JKe et al., was possibly from the Clifton flock. Elsewhere, Kinsham Lake held a pair on September 2nd RAP, a female was at Upton Warren on 8th many observers, a first-winter drake at Throckmorton Lagoons on 9th RAP, an immature female at Grimley on 12th and 13th BRS et al. and three drakes and two ducks at Westwood Pool on 21st WDu et al. During the second winter period, Westwood Pool held a drake from November 19th-21st WDu et al. and a first-winter drake was in the Grimley area on 26th remaining until December 5th ELe et al. Staffs One was present at Blithfield on January 3rd and 13th, two at Aqualate on March 19th, a female at Rudyard Lake on August 14th, a pair at Drayton Bassett Pits on 15th-17th with a male there on 28th-September 1st and a female at Tittesworth on September 6th. W Mid Probably the same juvenile or female bird was seen at Marsh Lane NR on August 24th and September 9th SHare, GPR.

38 Red-crested Pochard X Mallard Staffs A female at Brookley’s Lake on January 20th had been present for some time.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Abbots Salford 11 46 36 1 – 1 – – 1 14 – 26 Alvecote 20 17 3 1 1 – – 1 1 2 22 25 Brandon 46 23 9 – 2 – 2 1 8 13 27 36 Coombe Abbey 30 23 1 – – – – 3 5 3 27 19 Coton/Lea Marston 700 743 40 – – – 2 67 35 190 513 1036 Draycote 60 43 20 – – 1 2 2 2 4 38 30 Hodnell 15 8 6 1 – – – – – – 6 7 Kingsbury area 38 – 1 – – 2 3 2 4 21 26 – Napton Res 4 13 11 – – – – – – – 3 20 Salford Priors GP 14 6 – – – – – 1 3 31 43 55 Shustoke 71 82 18 – 4 – – 8 1 1 21 20 Bittell Reservoirs 27 24 9 – – – – 2 – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 5 21 3 1 – – – – – – 11 9 Grimley 352381–––17–2629 Kinsham Lake 39 22 22 7 6 4 7 7 – 8 5 9 Pirton Pool 2 10 3 – – – – – – – 10 29 Upton Warren 15 20 19 3 1 – 1 2 4 6 9 7 Westwood Pool 137 47 26 – – – 4 2 22 27 24 65 Aqualate – 40 16 4 – – – – – 1 – 7 Barton GP ––––––8–66–2814 Belvide 99 66 5 2 10 9 9 9 30 38 51 35 Blithfield 100 86 4 – 4 12 – 9 6 29 19 38 Chasewater 62 42 16 – – – 2 – 3 7 30 33 Copmere 31 12 1 – – – – – – 8 5 5 Croxall NR 123 90 34 3 – 1 1 – – 45 60 77 Doxey Marshes 12102–32–1––35 Drayton Bassett Pits 23 – – – – 2 3 – – – 10 2 Fisherwick and Elford GP 25 22 66 – – – 1 – – 5 – 9 Tittesworth 18 12 7 – – – – – 1 2 5 6 Westport Lake 83 78 3 1 6 4 1 2 3 13 24 38 Whitemoor Haye 3 9 – – – – – 6 24 46 62 50 Edgbaston Pool 1 1 2 – – – – – – – – 1 Fens Pools 73––––––––34 Marsh Lane NR 42 23 6 3 2 – 2 2 13 19 20 27 Ryders Mere – 7 – – – – – – – – 2 2 Sandwell Valley 50 48 12 1 1 1 2 1 2 10 5 40 Sheepwash UP 10 26 1 – – – – – 2 8 13 11 Stubbers Green 12 16 6 – – – – – – – – 3 WeBS 2007 890 763 154 11 9 16 28 75 94 228 551 941 WeBS 2008 557 1289 275 6 8 24 15 102 113 394 787 1319

Warks Away from tabulated sites there were also reports of one-three at Coleshill GP, Earlswood, Ladywalk and Seeswood Pool during May-July. Wintering numbers remained generally low away from the key stronghold of the Coton/Lea Marston complex. Other counts included 15 in Packington Park on September 23rd and a peak of ten at Ladywalk during December, while single figure reports came from: Bedworth Nook, Bermuda, Charlecote GP, Earlswood, Edstone, Lighthorne Pools, Ryton Pools CP, Seeswood Pool and Wootton Pool.

39 Worcs Three pairs attempted to breed at Kinsham Lake. Two were successful, with seven young observed from May 29th to at least June 16th and a brood of six hatched in July had all fledged by August 7th, with four remaining on site until 15th. Reports away from the tabulated localities comprised one at Hewell Grange on February 21st, then a pair here on March 6th, two at Longdon Marsh on May 27th, three at Throckmorton Lagoons on 28th, one at Arrow Valley Lake on July 21st, while at Clifton Pits 65 were counted on November 4th, followed by 42 on 25th and 39 on December 5th. Staffs Numbers at the main Staffordshire sites were similar to those of the previous year with peak counts occurring in January: at Belvide on the 29th, at Blithfield on the 2nd and at Croxall on the 6th. No confirmed reports of breeding were submitted although birds were noted at several sites during the summer months. During the second winter period representation seems little changed from the previous years and may be a little lower. Substantial numbers were first noted on September 13th when 66 were at Barton GP and this count was only exceeded once, at Croxall, on December 8th. As well as the tabulated sites, a further 12 also reported small numbers of birds. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded two birds in one transect along the River Tame (west). Away from tabulated sites, sightings during the first winter period involved single birds at Longmoor Pool on January 27th and West Smethwick Park on February 3rd, three at Netherton Reservoir on 19th and seven at Whyndley Pool on 24th. In the second winter period, there were two birds at Dunstall Park from September 23rd-27th and one on November 30th, six at Cornets End and one at Olton Mere on November 3rd, one at Hydes Road Pool on 16th, and four at Netherton Reservoir on December 8th, one on 11th and three on 16th 2007 Addendum Warks Shustoke had maxima of 86 in January and 65 in December. Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 55 50 50 36 19 24 31 26 60 130 190 185 Brandon 73 59 48 33 23 20 21 14 21 32 44 39 Compton Verney 41 45 41 12 – – – – 10 13 36 42 Coombe Abbey 40 34 46 20 6 22 26 16 23 34 63 48 Coton/Lea Marston 569 1502 300 125 – – 500 1711 3247 2048 1528 1881 Dosthill/Kingsbury 117 – – – – 155 135 – 76 120 170 – Draycote 420 229 253 65 – 87 155 165 287 801 750 770 Hodnell 100 45 7 2 – – – – – – 87 80 Ladywalk 57 49 68 – – – – – 11 31 73 40 Napton Res 30 33 41 22 20 2 10 15 17 38 64 56 Salford Priors GP 73 40 45 31 37 56 17 44 96 84 47 51 Shustoke 29 42 38 – – – 11 28 10 45 106 85 Bittell Reservoirs 18 22 38 44 5 28 75 96 25 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 78 53 19 23 – 13 20 9 11 44 64 55 Grimley 32–66812368768182498176 Gwen Finch Wetland 3 6 6 10 2 4 2 1 – 3 2 6 Hewell Grange – 12 13 5 6 – – – – – 50 – Kinsham Lake 83 79 49 54 36 34 7 5 16 16 15 41 Pirton Pool 15 49 29 39 37 39 44 38 25 12 14 40 Upton Warren 25 21 52 60 29 23 14 14 20 20 33 25 Westwood Pool 105 66 64 66 13 6 26 18 25 112 82 125

40 JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate – 120 84 102 3 – 8 19 9 55 – 9 Barton GP – – – 82 91 59 408 – 354 33 76 14 Belvide 50 77 124 134 47 25 47 111 225 193 96 121 Blithfield 130 115 92 223 95 106 – 139 96 – 61 108 Branston Water Park 43432045– 424337664– – Chasewater 409 201 77 56 26 39 140 122 695 790 537 448 Copmere 83 114 110 61 6 12 39 63 66 108 56 127 Croxall NR 120 80 61 100 – – – 45 12 – – 4 Croxden Quarry 17 8 11 21 24 7 5 13 4 – – – Doxey Marshes 3119231320106 818121820 Fisherwick and Elford GP 82 63 75 60 18 2 31 22 12 25 62 56 Tittesworth 2322282016146 1 2413552 Uttoxeter Quarry 41220232413– 4 921023547 Westport Lake 90 81 41 32 6 4 17 23 54 98 76 73 Whitemoor Haye 59 48 61 27 13 8 9 79 95 36 35 13 Dunstall Park/ Smestow Valley 1 – 11 10 8 – 4 4 20 14 3 12 Edgbaston Pool 16 36 18 19 11 9 19 40 24 11 17 18 Fens Pools 454952111012284881768349 Marsh Lane NR 23 27 40 60 55 33 98 80 35 8 13 21 Netherton Reservoir – 1 9 4 2 – 2 4 30 5 10 66 Sandwell Valley 30 50 30 48 17 37 27 22 22 31 47 30 Sheepwash UP 4 13 12 15 8 7 14 40 4 6 6 8 Stubbers Green 44 34 34 28 16 8 1 1 3 10 – 15 WeBS 2007 3124 3307 2526 1658 684 741 2321 3374 4263 3284 4483 4222 WeBS 2008 1948 3305 1831 1535 589 721 948 3278 5204 4608 3821 3961 Warks Broods were noted at: Alvecote, , Brandon (six), Dosthill Lake (two), Draycote, Fisher’s Mill GP, Henley GC (two), Kingsbury, Ladywalk (three), Morton Bagot and Salford Priors GP (five). Numbers at Coton/Lea Marston Pools were exceptionally high during the autumn, with the count of 3247 on September 17th SMH easily beating the previous county and regional record of 2240 there in January 2001. Maxima away from the tabulated sites were relatively low and included 32 at Abbots Salford on February 18th, 22 at Earlswood on 20th, 27 at Lower Radbourn on April 1st, 23 at Charlecote GP on 6th and 25 at Seeswood Pool on October 20th. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Bittell Reservoirs, Bodenham Arboretum (two pairs) Frog End Pool, Grimley, Kinsham Lake (three pairs), Lower Moor (two pairs), Ryall Pits (two pairs), Throckmorton Lagoons (seven pairs) and Upton Warren (ten broods, with at least 63 young hatched). Pairs also noted during the breeding season at Bredon’s Hardwick, Arrow Valley, Butlers Hill, Gwen Finch Wetland, Oakley Pool, Pirton Pool and Westwood Pool. Counts made away from the tabulated sites comprised 50 at Longdon Marsh on January 20th, while Clifton Pits held 41 on August 7th, 60 on November 4th and 105 on 15th. Staffs Numbers during the first winter period appear similar to those from 2007 with the maximum count of 330 at Chasewater noted on January 17th and this being only slightly lower than the previous five-year average for this period of 330. Breeding birds were reported from Aqualate, Barton GP, Belvide, Blithfield, Branston GP, Byrkley Park, Copmere, Croxden Quarry, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Gailey, Gayton, Sugnall Park and Tamworth. At Chasewater numbers during the second winter period were a little improved on the previous year with the highest count of 790 occurring on October 5th but still lower than the previous five-year average of 926. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 77 birds in 12 of the transects and six of the watercourses: Plantsbook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (east),

41 River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Keepers Pool and Wyndley to Bracebridge). At least 12 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, with counts of 88 ducklings in July and 66 in August, some of which were seen in broods of Gadwall. Several pairs bred at Edgbaston Pool (eleven juveniles noted in August), Sandwell Valley (43 ducklings were counted) and at Ryders Mere (18 ducklings on August 15th). The maximum of 66 birds at Netherton Reservoir occurred on December 12th. Other high counts included 32 birds at Ryders Mere on February 2nd and 30 at Whyndley Pool on 24th. Up to 22 birds were also noted at Babb’s Mill Lake, Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bumble Hole LNR, Cannon Hill Park, Cornets End, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hydes Road Pool, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Mary Stevens Park, Meriden Park Pool, Ocker Hill, Park Lime Pits, Rattlechain Mere, Titford Pools, Victoria Park, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR, West Smethwick Park and Windmill Lakes.

2007 Addendum Warks Shustoke had a maximum count of 154 in January.

Greater Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Rare in summer. Warks The first-winter male at Lea Marston Pools from December 2007 was joined by a female on January 5th with a second short-staying female at nearby Coton on 6th. The first two were then joined by a second first-winter male on 8th and all three remained at Lea Marston until February 4th; with the original pair (the male gradually acquiring adult plumage) staying to April 10th, and the male to 13th. This pair visited nearby Shustoke on March 18th. The only other report during the first quarter was of a female at Draycote from March 12th-14th. Autumn records commenced with a first-winter male at Brandon on October 25th. A first-winter male and female were located in the huge duck flock at Lea Marston on November 18th, followed by up to three first-winter females in the Coton/Lea Marston area from November 24th to the end of the year, with four on December 29th. Another first-winter female at Salford Priors GP on December 21st was the first for the site. Staffs A female was present at Copmere from January 1st to the 26th and was also noted nearby at Coldmeece Pools on the 15th. A first-winter male was seen regularly at Belvide between January 6th and March 31st with a second joining it for just one day on January 21st. At Chasewater a drake appeared on January 27th, staying until the 29th, in February one was recorded at Chillington on 10th and in April birds were noted on the 1st at Branston GP and on the 9th at Tittesworth. During summer a drake bird briefly visited Belvide on July 7th, and in September a series of reports were submitted from Tittesworth with three present between the 7th to 9th, two on the 11th, a single on the 13th, two on the 18th to 20th, one on the 21st and possibly the same bird again on October 9th. A male was at Belvide between October 14th and 17th, and at Blithfield five were present on October 29th and three on the 30th. In November, a first-winter male was at Gailey on the 1st, one was at Uttoxeter Quarry on the 6th whilst at Blithfield a female was noted on the 7th, one from the 10th to the 12th with five on the 12th, one female on the 14th and three between the 16th and 19th. Belvide hosted an immature on November 14th and a different immature on the 18th. On the 19th an immature/female stopped at Copmere, and a similar bird also appeared at Westport Lake and stayed until December 2nd. Three were at Blithfield between November 23rd and 24th with two remaining until the end of the year, although three were also noted on December 13th. A female was present at Tittesworth between December 13th and the 28th. W Mid A female was found at Bartley Reservoir on January 17th.

42 Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis Very rare vagrant (3/10). Warks The first-winter male from November 2007 stayed at Draycote until March 4th many observers, and was then relocated at Brandon on 5th JWe et al.

Aythya Hybrids Warks An apparent female Pochard x Ferruginous Duck was present at Coton from October 22nd-December 29th, while at nearby Lea Marston a female closely resembling a Lesser Scaup was present from November 20th to the end of the year ARD et al. A male Common Pochard x Tufted Duck was at Coton on November 18th and December 14th.

Common Eider Somateria mollissima Rare winter visitor (3/10). It remains a very elusive species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 01617 0 No. of birds 0481100

There were no records in 2008.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Rare winter visitor with occasional summer records (8/10). A poor showing after the increase in the last 5-year period.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 10 21 3 14 9

Warks An immature was at Draycote on January 3rd-4th JFCJ et al. Staffs A long staying individual was present at Blithfield from October 21st until November 23rd GJM et al.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, principally in spring, late-summer and autumn. Warks A fairly typical year at Draycote, with reports of two males on January 31st, a pair on March 26th, a female on May 5th and a pair on 21st; followed in the autumn by a male on September 6th, a female from 11th-18th, a male from 29th-October 11th, a party of seven (one male) on November 2nd increasing to eight (still one male) on 3rd, followed by three females on 10th and one from 20th-27th. The only other sighting was of a male at Shustoke on September 7th. Worcs Kinsham Lake held two drakes and two ducks on April 20th, two drakes and two ducks were noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 15th, with the latter locality attracting a drake on September 6th, an immature female frequented Westwood Pool on November 3rd and at Lower Bittell Reservoir, a drake took up residence between 12th-December 7th, being joined by two females on November 23rd. Staffs The spring passage started on March 17th when a male was at Blithfield, this being followed by five males and a female on April 6th. A female was at Aqualate on

43 April 13th and three females were noted at Chasewater between April 18th and the 23rd. In summer, two birds were at Blithfield on July 22nd, a drake at Chasewater on August 17th, and two females visited Westport on the 29th. September saw five birds at Blithfield on the 6th, one on the 9th and two males on the 25th with Chasewater holding a pair on the 22nd. No birds were noted again until November 1st when a female was at Uttoxeter Quarry, Belvide finally weighed in with a male on the 4th and five were at Blithfield on the 18th with one on the 23rd and another on December 4th. Belvide again held a single female on December 10th-12th and four birds were noted on Christmas Day at Blithfield. W Mid Nine females and six males visited Bartley Reservoir on May 29th and a drake was present on July 9th TMH. Two females visited Sandwell Valley on November 17th, with one bird on December 7th per RSPB.

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca Rare winter visitor and passage migrant (4/10) An average showing for the species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 63222 No. of birds 165527

There were no records in 2008

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 6 4 1 – – – – – – 1 10 4 Coton/Lea Marston 12 6 2 – – – – 2 2 4 3 11 Dosthill/Kingsbury 23 20 24 6 – – – – – 6 22 38 Draycote 49 23 58 5 – – – – – 5 40 65 Bittell Reservoirs 2 1 – – – – – – – – 2 – Clifton Pits 131111–––––1 Grimley 281–––––––24 Westwood Pool 18 19 19 14 – – – – – 1 8 8 Alrewas – 24 5 – 5 – – – – – – – Barton GP 10–––––1–––33 Belvide 92 99 107 76 2 – – – 3 13 75 96 Blithfield 48 – 17 58 5 – – – 1 16 35 64 Chasewater 103 84 68 22 – – – – – 13 61 68 Copmere 23 9 15 8 – – – – – – 4 6 Croxall NR 24 15 15 4 – – – – – 1 10 16 Drayton Bassett Pits 18 20 16 4 – – – – 1 1 4 13 Tittesworth 5645–––––225 Westport Lake 12 13 9 5 – – – – – 1 5 7 Whitemoor Haye 68 28 43 31 2 – – – – – 24 34 Bartley Reservoir 17 10 10 4 – – – – – – 5 6 Marsh Lane NR –33–––––––21 Sandwell Valley 4 4 6 1 – – – – – 1 2 1 WeBS 2007 222 284 202 84 2 – – 1 1 2 117 152 WeBS 2008 307 311 340 146 2 – – 2 1 35 186 307

Warks There were late summer reports of a female at Shustoke on August 13th and two

44 at Coton from August 17th-September 12th. The count of ten at Brandon on November 21st was the highest ever from this well-watched reserve. Away from the main tabulated sites maxima included two at Ladywalk in February, three at Shustoke in March, and two at Alvecote in November. Other reports involved one at Coombe Abbey on November 16th, a male at Napton Res on November 7th and a female there on December 24th. Worcs A drake, present throughout the first winter period at Clifton Pits, remained until June 1st and probably the same individual visited Pirton Pool on May 18th. Away from the tabulated sites, Upton Warren held a drake on February 11th and a pair on April 17th, Lower Moor held a drake on March 3rd, then during the second winter period the latter locality held a drake on November 4th and a female on December 26th. Elsewhere, a drake was at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 12th, one was noted at Top Barn Sailing Lake on many dates between 26th-December 30th, a female was at Pirton Pool and one at Arrow Valley Lake on December 1st and a female at Ryall Pits on 14th and 30th. Staffs As in previous years, Belvide and Chasewater held the bulk of the county’s population with numbers in the first winter period being a little higher than those of 2007 but suggesting little change overall. The maximum counts at these two sites occurred on March 16th and January 17th respectively. Blithfield also reported good numbers with its highest spring count noted on April 9th. Birds lingered into May with one immature drake remaining at Blithfield until May 21st when a bird was also noted at Belvide. Only one summer bird was noted in the county, at Barton GP, on July 27th and it was not until September 18th that the first returning birds were seen, this time at Belvide where three birds were present. A build-up of numbers continued into December with the high count at Belvide occurring on the 13th and with the Chasewater maximum noted on the 20th. The species was also noted in small numbers at a further eight untabulated sites. W Mid Away from tabulated sites, one bird was seen at Rattlechain Mere on January 19th, three were at Ryders Mere on February 25th, two were at Cornets End on November 3rd and singles were at Netherton Reservoir on December 11th and on 30th.

Smew Mergellus albellus Uncommon winter visitor. Very rare in summer. The decline in numbers of the handsome duck is probably due to the milder winters.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 107 82 254 491 175

Warks Following a run of mild winters this is becoming an increasingly scarce visitor to the county. The male at Draycote from December 2007 stayed until January 27th, but the only reports from our part of the Tame Valley in the first quarter involved single males at Fisher’s Mill GP on January 27th and Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on February 21st. The first autumn records were of single redheads at Earlswood from November 25th-28th, at Draycote on 26th-27th, and at Alvecote from 27th-December 6th. A male was subsequently back at Draycote from December 11th-31st, with another at Kingsbury on December 14th and at nearby Fisher’s Mill GP on 23rd. Worcs A drake was noted at Kinsham Lake on January 2nd GHP et al., and an eclipse drake was at Mill Shrub Pool and Lower Bittell Reservoir between November 30th- December 3rd SRo et al.

45 Staffs The drake at Chase - water at the end of 2007 remained through January and was last seen on February 13th, and three birds including two drakes were noted at Drayton Bassett Pits on New Year’s Day with a drake present on January 8th. A pair was at Croxall on January 26th and also nearby at Whitemoor Haye on February 12th. A male was noted at Croxall on February 25th, on which date there was also a pair at Whitemoor Haye, and a red - head was at the same location on the 27th. Two pairs were seen on the River Tame between the main pool at Whitemoor Haye and Croxall on March 9th, these being the last birds seen in the first part Smew at Draycote, Steve Seal of the year. Later in the year a redhead was noted at Alvecote Pools – Pretty Pigs Pool between November 27th and December 2nd, and at Drayton Bassett Pits a drake was present between December 15th and the 21st, joined by a redhead on the 22nd. Finally a drake was at Chasewater from December 27th until the end of the year.

2004 Corrigendum Worcs One mentioned at Upton Warren on January 17th 2004 was erroneous.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in Staffs in 1994. The worst period for over 20 years mirrors the decline in numbers of other sea duck.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 43 31 61 46 24 No. of birds 66 44 75 52 43

Warks Single females were noted at Draycote on January 10th RCM, October 17th several observers and November 20th PDH. A redhead at Abbots Salford on October 12th JJB was the first for the site. Worcs Upper Bittell Reservoir held a redhead on November 2nd MJI et al. and an eclipse drake was noted at Lower Moor on 10th RAP et al. Staffs Two drakes were present at Chasewater on March 26th GEva, followed by singles at Belvide on April 3rd MFox per SNut and 19th KCle per SNut. In the autumn, an immature male was at Blithfield on September 24th GJM.

46 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: JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote 101483–––––1614 Coleshill GP 1 4 5 3 – – – – – – – – Compton Verney 20 20 12 4 – – – – – – 4 13 Draycote 33 38 21 1 – – – 5 5 4 26 30 Earlswood 9111–––––––34 Ladywalk 23 19 19 7 3 2 1 1 – – 6 3 Shustoke 12 25 26 9 – – – – – – 12 10 Arrow Valley Lake ––––––––––58 Bittell Reservoirs 29 14 8 – – – – – – 3 31 19 Trimpley Reservoir 24 12 14 16 – – – – – 1 3 25 Barton GP 1––7––––22554 Belvide 522––––––1522 Biddulph Grange CP – 1 3 – – – – – – 5 1 5 Blithfield 70 56 14 7 1 – 3 12 21 34 95 96 Chasewater 14 22 60 1 – – – – – 1 21 38 Copmere 38 7 4 – – – – – – – 24 23 Croxall NR 2–21–––––135 Doxey Marshes 21 26 30 7 2 1 – – – 8 18 19 Knypersley Reservoir 28 10 21 1 – – – – 1 – 4 4 R. Sow Meadows, Baswich 6 – 2 6 2 – – – – 3 5 9 Tittesworth 20 30 34 3 – 1 2 – 1 2 9 9 Uttoxeter Quarry 8 15 15 5 13 10 8 9 1 7 6 17 Hill Hook LNR 9 – 7 – – – – – – – – 9 Marsh Lane NR 3–2–21– –314 Ryders Mere 31 46 48 1 – – – – – – p 6 Sandwell Valley 18 20 16 6 – – – – 1 6 33 20 Sheepwash UP 7 6 4 3 – – – – – – 20 37 Stubbers Green 10 14 – – – – – – – – – – WeBS 2007 1248982162 –185 72142106 WeBS 2008 188 103 118 15 2 – 11 3 2 52 105 181 Warks Birds are increasingly staying over into the breeding season at Ladywalk, while other summer reports involved a redhead on the River Avon at Hampton Wood on July 30th and a party of five at Draycote resident from August 13th. Wintering flocks were fairly modest, with the Tame Valley population feeding along the river systems in the Coleshill area and at Ladywalk, but then roosting at Shustoke. Maxima away from tabulated waters included seven at Farnborough Park on February 16th, 12 at Chesterton on March 7th and December 18th, and eight at Dog Lane Fishery (Napton) on November 15th, while up to four were noted fairly regularly at Abbots Salford, Brandon, Coton, Dosthill/Kingsbury, Napton Res, Whitacre Waterworks and Wormleighton Res. Three at Toft Farm Lakes on March 12th were the first for the site, while one or two were noted on odd dates at DMC Kineton, over Grandborough, Hampton Lucy, Long Itchington, Offchurch and Seeswood Pool. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, first winter period sightings comprised two at Captains Pool on January 11th, then one here on 18th, 14 were at Stanford Pool on 26th, a drake and two ducks were noted at Clifton Pits on 27th, Throckmorton Lagoons held a female on 27th, then two females on February 5th and a flock of 16 frequented Ravenshill Wood Pool on January 31st. Elsewhere, February sightings comprised a female at Hewell Grange on 6th, then three here on 21st, a female was on the River Severn at Bewdley on 14th and a female at Westwood Pool on 23rd. In March Kyre Pool held 13 on 13th and 10

47 on 21st, and a drake was at Ravenshill Wood Pool on 24th, while during April a female was observed on the River Severn at Upper Arley on 3rd and 9th and at Upton Warren a female was resident between 3rd-23rd, bring joined by a second female on 4th. No observations were reported between May and July, or during September, with the only August record being a redhead on the River Severn at Bewdley on 11th. During the second winter period, four were noted on the River Teme at on October 19th, two redheads were at Ravenshill Wood Pool on 21st, a redhead at Lower Moor on 22nd, a redhead flew over Grimley on 28th and two redheads were at Kinsham Lake on 31st. November sightings comprised a drake at Upton Warren on 11th, 15th and 25th, then two drakes here on 26th, three were at Arrow Valley North, a drake at Beckford Lakes, one at Captains Pool and a drake flew over Hinton-on-the-Green on 30th, while in December a female was at Croome River, three at Kyre Pool, a female at Upton Warren and a female at Westwood Pool on 1st, a drake at the latter locality on 4th, three flew over Lower Park Farm Pool on the 6th, a female was on the River Avon at Nafford on 10th, 17 at Trimpley Reservoir on 20th, a female at Lower Park Farm Pool on 22nd, a drake on the River Severn in Worcester on 27th and finally a female at Clifton Pits and a pair at Ravenshill Wood Pool on 30th. Staffs Larger waters in the middle and north of the county again held the majority of birds with Blithfield being the site which consistently held the highest numbers during the winter periods, and here the January maximum of 70 was noted on the 13th. Doubtless, the breeding population in the north-east of the county contributed to the numbers outside the winter months and breeding was confirmed at Ecton, near the River Dove; at Fauld (a brood of five in mid May) and near Uttoxeter Quarry where ten juveniles appeared on June 4th. Three birds at Consall CP were considered probable breeders but summering birds at Doxey and Shugborough showed no evidence of breeding. During the second winter period Blithfield again held the highest numbers with the maximum count of 96 noted on December 18th, this being slightly higher than the very good 2007 numbers, again an indication of the success this species is experiencing. A further 48 sites also held birds, including rivers and smaller pools which clearly prove attractive to the species. W Mid Two birds at Marsh Lane NR in May involved presumably the same pair on 4th and 20th, with the female seen on 23rd, 30th and 31st, and again on June 15th. Records away from tabulated sites during the first winter period involved five birds in Goscote Valley on January 2nd, three on 16th and one on March 2nd, and singles at Fens Pools on January 3rd and Bartley Reservoir on 16th. Later in the year, there were one bird at Bartley Reservoir on October 21st and four on November 17th, one at Olton Mere on November 3rd, one at Dunstall Park on 25th, four on 27th and two on December 14th, and one along the Birmingham Mainline Canal on 7th and five on 14th.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Fairly common resident of feral origin.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 2 – – 2 1 1 1 1 – – – – Coton/Lea Marston 2 4 1 – – – 3 4 10 12 7 30 Dosthill/Kingsbury 2 9 4 – 1 3 1 1 2 – – – Draycote 211––––––226 Ladywalk – – – – – – 3 7 9 5 2 1 Shustoke –11–––––––25 Kinsham Lake –3532–––––2– Pirton Pool –1––31558223

48 JFMAMJ JASOND Upton Warren ––335431–––– Westwood Pool 7653344461022 Aqualate – – – 2 1 – – 7 7 2 – – Belvide –2552–––1044– Blithfield 61 62 16 7 8 9 – 5 20 38 17 13 Chasewater 4 2 1 3 5 1 2 4 4 4 1 3 Croxall NR ––21––1––––– Doxey Marshes – – – 4 10 3 1 – – – – – Drayton Bassett Pits – 1 – – – – – 2 2 2 – – Whitemoor Haye 2–––––––1–22 Edgbaston Pool – – – – 1 5 4 6 12 5 5 – Marsh Lane NR –12576228121 Sandwell Valley p – 4 6 2 2 – – – 3 – – WeBS 2007 24 33 20 28 24 22 16 20 28 17 71 50 WeBS 2008 61383322341781954601529

Warks The only breeding evidence concerned a female with a duckling at Brandon on August 7th. None returned to the recent stronghold of Salford Priors GP, where pit restoration has eliminated most of the former breeding habitat. Away from tabulated waters the only records were of one at Napton Res on January 26th, a male at Stoneton Moat on April 10th, a male at Alvecote during June, one on a pool near Arley on August 22nd, two at Abbots Salford on September 11th and one at Earlswood on 14th. Worcs No breeding records received. Away from the tabulated sites, Grimley held a pair on January 1st, then two here on February 10th and one on October 29th, while a female was at Clifton Pits on November 4th. Staffs Single pairs bred at Aqualate and Branston GP. During both winter periods Blithfield was the only site to hold substantial numbers of birds with the February 2nd count being the highest and double that of the same period in the previous year. This trend was not continued in the later months though when numbers were considerably lower than those of the previous year and this may reflect the effect of the continuing cull of this species. A drake of the dark-headed form ferrunginea was present at Belvide from May 11th-18th. One or two birds seen at Barton GP, Branston Water Park, Bridgetown, Ranton Abbey and Westport Lake between July and September were the only other records. The national cull is reflected in the table below. Maximum annual counts from Blithfield Reservoir

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 420 265 187 264 260 150 156 91 62 W Mid Five young were raised at Ryders Mere, where the maximum count of adults involved four on March 15th. Single birds were regularly recorded at Sheepwash UP throughout the year and noted at Perry Park on March 30th and Whyndley Pool on May 11th.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Uncommon and declining resident on the North Staffs Moors. Staffs Breeding records came from Back Forest (one territory), Boarsgrove (four), Brund Hill (one), Five Clouds (four), Goldsitch Moss (one), Gradbach (one), Knotbury/ Orchard Common (four including one pair with young), Middle Hills (one), The Roaches (four including one pair with young), Roach End (one), Round Knowl Farm (three) and Swallow Moss/Lum Edge (one-two). No birds were found at Gun Hill despite searching.

49 Larger early-year gatherings were five at Hayes, 14 at Knotbury, 10 at The Roaches, six at Lady Edge, four at Swallow Moss and three at Revidge. At year’s end there were five at Boarsgrove, two at Gib Torr, six at Goldsitch Moss, six at Gradbach, one at Knotbury, eight at Middle Hills, one at Morridge Top, eight at Oliver Hill, one at Swainsmoor, 10 at Turn Edge, two at Revidge and four at Swallow moss.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks 22 territories on 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot was the same density as in 2007. Huge numbers were released once again during the autumn on the Ragley estate and the largest count here was 350 at Salford Priors GP on October 12th. Other counts in the south of the county included 50 at Morton Bagot on October 4th, 30 at Ilmington Downs on 11th and 85 near Wormleighton Res on November 4th. In the north smaller than usual covies were noted around Maxstoke by one observer who suspected that fewer were being released, but 28 were counted in field margins at nearby Packington on September 27th and 44 at Shustoke on October 21st. Worcs Three pairs were reported to have bred at Bodenham Arboretum. Other records received comprised 16 at Kinsham Lake on January 3rd, one on the summit of Worcestershire Beacon on February 10th, two on Bredon Hill on October 9th, 30 at Wick on 18th, 30+ at Radford on December 6th and 20 at Wick on 13th. Staffs The only confirmed breeding was of a chick at Rolleston Park and confirmed breeding at Glass Houses, although pairs in the breeding season were noted 19 other sites. Double-figure counts comprised 28 at Jackson’s Bank and 20 at River Sow Meadows in January; 16 at Tixall and 23 at Uttoxeter Quarry in October and 22 at Barton GP, 20 at Croxall NR, 10 at Gailey Reservoir, 17 at Shutt Green and 12 at Tixall in December,. W Mid Birds were seen during the breeding season at Box Trees, Clayhanger (no more than two pairs noted), Harvest Hill, Keresley Mere and Marsh Lane NR. Individuals were also seen at Bury’s Hill and Stivichall.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Fairly common, but rapidly declining resident. Warks Breeding was established at and Birchmoor, with further pairs located during the breeding season at: Bramcote Hall, Charlecote GP, Dunchurch, Dunnington, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Flecknoe, Frankton, Grandborough, Kites Hardwick, Morton Bagot (four), Newbold-on-Stour, Spernall, Stoneton (two), Watergall and Wolvey. Early in the year good-sized covies included 25 at Oxhill and 17 at Morton Bagot on January 6th, nine at Priors Marston on 29th, and ten at Frankton in the same month. An autumn count of 58 together in a field at Packington on September 27th presumably involved released birds, but other counts included 20 at Morton Bagot in October- November, seven at Wishaw on October 27th, 15 at Caldecote on November 23rd, six at Alvecote on December 14th-15th and six near Polesworth on 28th. Other reports of up to five came during the year from: Bermuda, Brandon, Broadwell, Burton Hastings, Chadshunt, Kingsbury, Knightcote, Over Whitacre, Salford Priors GP, Sawbridge and Shelfield. A very welcome increase in records which may well be linked to reintroduction projects set up on several shooting estates. Reports came from a total of 36 sites (cf. 29 in 2007), which was the best return since 2003. Worcs Sightings during the spring and summer months comprised between two and four birds regularly noted at Shenstone between March 24th-July 25th, two were at

50 on April 12th, two at Woodrow between 23rd-June 9th, a pair at Moorhouse Farm, on April 25th, two at on 27th, one at Castlemorton Common on June 2nd, a pair at Hipton Hill on 9th, one at Ryall Pits on July 21st and one at North Littleton on 27th. During the first winter period, a covey of nine were flushed at Holt on January 26th and two were noted at Shenstone on February 25th. One was heard calling at Shenstone on August 24th and seven+ were noted on Bredon Hill on September 28th, while during the second winter period the latter locality held six on November 4th, 11 presumed released birds were noted at Hinton-on-the-Green on December 3rd, a covey of eight were observed at Redditch on 27th and 31st, plus one was calling at Holt on 29th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Cuckoo Bank 25 2 2 2 – – – – 6 12 11 15 Whitemoor Haye –2322–––5–––

No breeding attempts were reported at all this year and breeding season sightings came from 14 sites, down from 16 in 2007 and 20 in 2006. Two sightings were made in June, and just one in July at Fauld and one in August at Chasewater. Other sites recording more than three birds were Needwood House with nine (date not specified) and Rolleston Park with eight on November 23rd, four at Belvide and Seighford on January 5th, five at Pattingham on 15th, four at Halfpenny Green on 17th, 10 at Drayton Bassett Pits on 28th, five at Brancote on 26th and five at Anslow Common on 28th.

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Pairs (Successful) 1 2(1) 4(1) 8(1) 0 2-3(2) 5 (2) 0

W Mid A bird was reported with chicks at Fen End in early July. Other sightings involved three birds at Aldridge on January 23rd, one near Melbricks Garden Centre on April 28th, two at Chadwick End on May 6th, one at Marsh Lane NR on June 4th and two on 11th, and one in Sandwell Valley on August 24th.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer visitor in fluctuating numbers, but usually scarce. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: May 13th (21) to August 23rd (16) 8-year average: May 20th (+7 days) to August 22nd (–1 day) First noted over Berry Hill on May 30th and undated records into August at Lapley.

Warks One was heard in flight over Stockingford at 02.15 on June 2nd NDBC. One was calling at Bruton (near Admington) on June 14th CPP, MCP, with another heard in grassland at Watergall JJB on the same day. Worcs One or two singing males were at Longdon Marsh between June 7th-12th MWCW et al., plus a female was observed here on 10th RAP, while at Shenstone a male was singing on 26th and July 6th TMH et al. Staffs One was heard Berry Hill on May 30th SJT, JAL and again on June 8th RToo. Another was heard at Hales on July 13th RWhi and at least three were heard regularly at Lapley in July and August NTal.

2007 Addendum W Mid One was heard calling at Hampton in Arden on July 17th JJB.

51 Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Warks Five pairs were located during the breeding season at Long Marston Camp, while 15 territories plotted in 120ha of farmland at Morton Bagot was only half that present in 2006. A late brood was at Salford Priors GP on September 28th. The largest count involved 150 in a field by Ennister Wood (Ragley) on October 12th, an estate where large numbers are released for shooting. Worcs The only record received comprised four breeding pairs at Bodenham Arboretum. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Coton Mill Wood, at Drayton Bassett Pits with three young, Maer and Spring Head. 12 pairs attempted at Doxey. Melanistic males were recorded at Belvide, Ingestre and Uttoxeter Quarry and an all white bird at Blithfield. There were far fewer double-figure counts: 11 at Belvide on January 6th, 10 at Bearstone on April 26th, 16 at Hanchurch Woods on 30th and 14 at Brookleys Lake on December 26th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of five birds in five of the transects and three of the watercourses: River Cole (east) and Sutton Park (central and Longmoor). The species was regarded as being common throughout the rural area up to the fringes of Eastern Green, Allesley and Keresley. A pair bred at Marsh Lane NR and birds were present in the breeding season at Aldridge, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bury’s Hill, Chad - wick End, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Foxcote, Heronfield, Knowle, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Pedmore, Smestow Valley, Westwood Heath and Woodgate Valley. High counts included 15 at Marsh Lane NR on February 15th and up to 20 during December, six in Sandwell Valley in February, seven in November and nine in December, four in Coundon Wedge on February 16th and seven on March 15th, eleven at Bury’s Hill on 31st, four at Dunstall Park on April 7th and December 19th-20th, four at Berkswell on April 14th, at least six at Clayhanger on 8th and 25th, eight at Chadwick End on May 6th, eight around Heronfield on 11th and five on June 19th, five at Allesley Park on August 30th and six at Marsh Lane NR on November 8th. Smaller numbers were recorded in Lutley Wedge, , Norton, Park Lime Pits and Wollaston.

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Rare winter visitor (6/10). Numbers for the past 10 years have levelled out, albeit at a low level.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 30 19 14 7 8

Warks A first-winter was at Draycote from December 28th-31st DHa, JFCJ, RCM et al. Staffs The Blithfield bird, from December 12th 2007, remained until January 15th.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica Rare winter visitor (5/10). The worst showing in 25 years!

52 1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 621051 There were no records in 2008.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Scarce winter visitor. A welcome increase compared to the other two divers.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 5 18122734

Great Northern Diver at Draycote, Steve Valentine

Warks An adult was at Draycote from January 12th-February 14th LPr, PPr et al. In the Tame Valley a flighty juvenile at Lea Marston on January 21st PA H , moved to several pools in Kingsbury WP on 22nd HJM et al. and then to Dosthill Lake on 23rd JOat. By noon it had moved onto a neighbouring pool in Staffs. A good late autumn showing at Draycote commenced with an adult in partial breeding plumage on November 3rd RCM, followed by two juveniles from 8th JFCJ, RCM, GPR et al., increasing to probably four on 11th and five from 12th-December 2nd RCM, RBR et al., with four of these staying into 2009. Staffs At Chasewater, the two juveniles from December 2007 remained until February 9th after which one departed and the other stayed, almost for a whole year, finally departing on November 28th. By contrast, another juvenile at Dosthill was present only on January 23rd JOat. On November 15th an adult was briefly seen at Blithfield GJM. Shortly

53 after, an adult was taken into care at Amerton Farm Rescue Centre and was thought to be the same as the Blithfield bird. Sadly, it died soon after being taken into care per RCB, FCG.

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis Rare vagrant (2/10). Staffs An incredible year for a species which so rarely strays inland. Firstly, a bird arrived at Blithfield on May 26th and became the longest staying inland record in the UK until it was discovered dead there on June 4th GJM. Then there were two more records, one flying through Belvide on September 3rd SNut and a second, but this time brief, visitor to Blithfield on 7th GJM, MPR. These were the first records since 1993.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Rare, mainly storm-driven, autumn vagrant (7/10). Fulmar at Blithfield, Dave Kelsall Staffs A dead bird was discovered in flood - water adjacent to Sainsbury’s Car Park, Doxey Marshes on September 7th D. Palmer per MDB.

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Rare passage migrant and storm-driven vagrant (8/10).

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 6561019 An impressive 100% increase in numbers over the last 5-year period. Warks Two immature (probably second-year) birds flew south-west over Henley-in- Arden on October 2nd ARD. Worcs A juvenile flew south over Trimpley Lane, Bewdley on October 23rd MFl. Staffs A good year with one flying SW at 15:18 over the Longsdon area/Leek arm of the Caldon Canal on October 5th JAL, a juvenile released on the River Tame near Elford GP on 13th, having been picked up earlier in a Whittington garden per www.birdguides.com and a further juvenile arriving at Chasewater late evening on 22nd and roosting overnight. It flew out at 7:45 the next day and was relocated at Ryders Mere, after which it flew off south at 10:47. GEva et al. W Mid A juvenile bird that arrived at nearby Chasewater the previous day departed early on October 23rd and was relocated at Ryders Mere, where it remained until mid-morning per CMas – the first record for the site. Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter resident and passage migrant. Uncommon breeder.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 106 14 15 9 9 7 7 13 10 77 57 84 Draycote 90 89 40 6 2 2 – 13 98 – 70 55 Kingsbury 35 – 31 28 12 10 9 16 25 51 – –

54 JFMAMJ JASOND Ladywalk 143 108 102 32 – – – – 14 – 180 276 The Salfords 27 42 36 20 5 1 9 7 20 21 40 24 Bittell Reservoirs 21 10 6 9 – 5 – 3 6 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 7 51 23 27 – 5 11 10 4 2 11 – Grimley 2 33 1 1 2 7 10 2 7 2 6 9 Gwen Finch Wetland 5 2 2 – – 3 3 5 7 18 9 8 Kinsham Lake 113–––1653331 Pirton Pool –1–––––––1–1 Upton Warren 23 19 19 4 1 1 4 13 12 7 29 18 Westwood Pool 11 5 17 12 1 2 3 10 10 10 20 4 Alrewas – – 4 – 4 – – – – – – – Aqualate – 50 – 40 80 – – 46 36 – 42 – Barton GP – – – 18 6 3 48 – 40 30 19 8 Belvide – – – – – – – 5 21 14 8 5 Blithfield 25 30 81 47 31 13 41 58 84 63 66 33 Branston Water Park 13 5 3 2 3 – 1 – – 8 – – Chasewater 8 13 5 2 3 1 3 3 12 6 11 59 Copmere 5 2 4 8 4 1 – 4 2 28 40 7 Croxall NR 8 – 3 – – – – 4 55 200 – 4 Doxey Marshes 6 5 5 3 2 4 6 5 10 3 3 5 Drayton Bassett Pits 27 16 – – – – 4 – – – – – Fisherwick & Elford GP 5 16 6 13 13 10 6 3 11 5 4 1 Rudyard Lake 18 12 9 – – 1 2 5 4 1 5 5 Tittesworth 252032178 625102111229 Uttoxeter Quarry – – – – 5 – 7 6 11 7 9 19 Weston Jones 11––––––––72– Westport Lake –––––4––322– Whitemoor Haye –––1–1––15161 Marsh Lane NR 37 33 26 8 9 10 8 14 30 17 30 34 Warks There were 43 occupied nests in the Coombe Abbey heronry, a rise from 37 in 2007. Away from the tabulated sites, a large flock was feeding at Shustoke during September with a peak of 162 on 22nd. Small numbers were otherwise recorded during the year from many parts of the county, with maxima of 15 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools in February, nine at Seeswood Pool on August 14th, ten at Alvecote on September 8th, 13 over Edge Hill on 27th, 11 at Earlswood on November 5th and 23rd, and ten at Sweet Knowle on 9th. A colour-ringed bird present at Kingsbury from October 31st had been ringed as a chick in a Dutch colony in May 2001. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, 53 were observed at Spetchley Park Lake on February 10th, Hewell Grange held two on April 3rd, Arrow Valley North held two on July 16th and one on September 1st, 20 were at Clifton Pits on August 7th, one at Hewell Grange on November 26th and 21 flew over Stanford Bridge on December 7th. Staffs No counts of young were submitted but 40 nests were recorded at a site in the west of the county and four nests at another more central site. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded three birds in one transect along the River Cole (east). One or two birds were also noted at Bartley Reservoir, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Lutley Wedge and Westwood Heath during the breeding season. Eleven birds were counted at Sheepwash UP on October 25th. Up to eight birds were occasionally seen at or flying over Barr Beacon, Berkswell, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Harborne NR, Knowle, The Leasowes, Minworth STW, Netherton Reservoir, Ryders Mere, Sandwell Valley, Small Heath Park, Smestow Valley, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, Titford Pools and Westwood Heath. A bird at Marsh Lane NR on September 6th had been ringed as a chick on Puffin Island, Anglesey, on June 23rd 2007.

55 Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Scarce visitor in all months, with occasional influxes in autumn and winter. Numbers continue to decline and would have been the worst for 25 years except for the flock of eight in 2008.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of records 16 59 19 28 12 No. of birds 19 119 22 29 20

Warks A small influx of juveniles to Draycote at the end of August was the first multiple arrival since 1992. The first bird was noted on August 21st-22nd LJoh, RCM, SSe et al., increasing to six on 23rd RED, RCM et al., with up to five observed daily from 24th- September 8th, but with eight on 4th RCM. Four of these birds remained to September 14th, three to 17th and two to October 8th, with one individual staying to the end of the year. It was joined by a second juvenile from Shag at Draycote, Steve Valentine December 20th-31st JFCJ, RCM et al. Two flew south at Long Lawford on September 14th JFCJ.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. The increase in numbers reflects the changing fortunes of the species in the UK.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 22 17 26 51 68

Warks Most reports this year came from Brandon, where single birds were seen on nine dates during January 27th- April 12th and on 11 dates during November 12th-December 12th, with two on November 28th BMCG. The only report from the Tame Valley was of a bird flushed at Fisher’s Mill GP on February 1st GAW. Worcs Singles were regularly observed at the Moors Pools, Upton Warren between January 2nd-February 27th, with two reported here on January 19th and February 1st many observers. One was discovered at Ryall Pits on January 13th WFP, while during the second winter period one or two birds were sighted most days between October 1st and the years end at Upton Warren, with three reported here on December 10th and 27th many observers. The only other record was of one noted at Westwood Pool on seven dates between November 4th and December 12th SMWh et al. Staffs The wintering bird at Aqualate was last seen on February 23rd, with it or another returning on October 5th until the year end PJor et al. There were also two sightings there

56 on the unusual dates of July 30th KHal and August 18th which is consistent with post- breeding dispersal.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Very rare vagrant (0/10).

Cattle Egret at Barton-under-Needwood, Dave Kelsall

Staffs A bird was discovered at Barton-under-Needwood on November 29th and remained until December 2nd. This was only the second county record, and the first twitchable one, so duly attracted a large number of admirers. It spent most of its time in a horse paddock, which it had frequented since November 6th, according to the land owner many observers. There was a large and unprecedented influx of this species in southern England during the year, with the first UK breeding record in Somerset, and this sighting ties in nicely with autumn dispersal. The only other county record was one at Doxey Marshes on January 7th 1987. It was the fourth record for the Club’s area.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Uncommon and increasing visitor. The phenomenal increase in numbers mirrors the status of the species in the UK. It is difficult to be sure how many birds there were as they move widely between sites so the totals presented must be treated with some caution. Who would have thought even 10 years ago that it would be worth tabulating records for this species!

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 1 4 40 165 673

57 Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote 1––––11222–– Brandon 1 – – – – 2 3 1 3 3 – – Coleshill GP 4 2 3 2 – 5 3 5 1 1 – Dosthill/Kingsbury – 1 2 – – – 1 3 6 2 1 2 Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath 5 4 2 2 4 6 4 3 1 1 2 1 Toft Farm Lakes area11––––1321–– Bredon’s Hardwick – – – – – – 6 7 1 – – – Grimley/Holt area –1––71273––– Kinsham Lake ––––––351––– Longdon Marsh – – – – – 1 2 1 1 – – – Lower Moor – – – – – – 1 – 1 1 – – Ryall Pits – – – – – 1 1 – 1 – – – Upton Warren 1––1––15–––1 Barton GP 31––––515––2 Belvide ––––21212––– Blithfield ––––2–4522–– Chasewater – – – – – – – 1 – – – – Croxall NR 1 – – – – – 5 2 4 1 2 – Doxey Marshes –1–1–––17––– Drayton Bassett Pits 1 1 – – – – 2 5 6 4 3 2 Tittesworth – – – – – 3 3 3 – – – –

Warks Birds were seen widely throughout the Tame Valley area, with records from every month and the main localities tabulated. Surely it is only a matter of time before we see the first breeding record? Outside this general area additional reports included one frequenting a small pool and nearby Clayhill Brook in Long Lawford from January 9th- 11th, before relocating to Wolston on 13th and then to the Draycote area on 15th and 18th- 19th. Two were seen at Abbots Salford on April 15th and one flew over Thurlaston on 26th. In July single birds were seen at Charlecote GP on 12th and 20th, and at Sawbridge on 15th. The latter bird as well as sightings at Draycote on September 14th and Leamington Hastings on October 2nd presumably involved wandering birds from nearby Toft Farm Lakes. Finally, one flew north-east over Earlswood Lakes on November 1st. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, reports during the first half of the year comprised singles at Lower Park Farm Pool on January 6th, Harvington on April 15th, Gwen Finch Wetland on May 4th, Westwood Pool on 24th, Clifton Pits on 28th and Bewdley on June 4th. Post-breeding records comprised one at Upper Bittell Reservoir between July 14th-21st, with two here from 25th-30th, singles were at Strensham Lock on 20th, Gwen Finch Wetland on August 1st and 12th, Clifton Pits on 3rd and on 14th. Clifton Pits held five on 30th, one was at Puxton Marsh on September 6th and one at Throckmorton on October 5th. Staffs One at Burton-on-Trent on April 4th, one at Kidsgrove on 14th-15th, two at Fisherwick and Elford North Pit on July 20th with one there on August 17th, one at Uttoxeter Quarry on August 24th, three at Whitemoor Haye on September 14th and two there on November 16th were the only untabulated records. W Mid Single birds were seen along the River Blythe at Cheswick Green on January 20th JTh, Canley Brook in Coventry on at least 27th ITa, Monkspath on February 15th MJI and Sandwell Valley on February 11th, July 14th, November 5th per RSPB and December 5th JTav. Sightings at Marsh Lane NR involved three birds on May 20th per NPB and singles on July 25th per NPB, September 14th SHare, GPR and December 4th per NPB. Unsubstantiated records involved a bird at Sheepwash UP from January 28th to February 2nd and four on August 16th, and one at Monkspath from January 30th-31st.

58 Great White Egret Ardea alba Rare vagrant (7/10). Warks A bird frequented the River Anker between Caldecote and Hartshill STW from February 8th-12th SMH et al. According to local residents it had been around for about three weeks before it was found. This was the eighth county record, of which five have been recorded since 2006. Staffs One visited Blithfield on May 17th RCB, GJM, another at Elford GP on October 1st DMG relocated to Blithfield the following day MJI, GJM and the third of the year was also at Blithfield on 10th RCB.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 45678711911654 Salford Priors GP 11 15 16 7 5 9 7 7 12 10 5 7 Bittell Reservoirs 30 10 15 11 9 3 1 8 8 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 2 3 9 4 – 2 – 1 4 1 2 3 Grimley 513133427446 Gwen Finch Wetland 1 1 2 2 3 4 3 2 3 2 1 1 Kinsham Lake 4 4 1 1 4 1 2 5 3 3 2 2 Upton Warren 656553476444 Westwood Pool 122222535222 Barton GP – – –138 – 7 –2013816 Belvide ––––3–4571374 Blithfield 12 10 4 5 4 16 13 20 26 27 17 20 Chasewater 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 7 7 2 3 1 Copmere – – 4 1 – 1 1 3 – 5 7 2 Croxall NR 834––––332–3 Doxey Marshes 7 5 4 4 9 9 10 9 7 8 9 6 Drayton Bassett Pits – 12 – – – – – – – – – 21 Fisherwick & Elford GP 1 7 12 3 2 7 2 3 10 7 3 3 Ingestre – – 10 12 20 – – – – – – – River Sow, Baswich443––––35335 Rudyard Lake 1 1 1 – 3 9 12 4 4 1 – – Tittesworth 2 4 6 3 8 7 10 6 3 3 3 2 Uttoxeter Quarry – – 5 – 5 5 11 15 10 12 12 12 Dunstall Park/ Smestow Valley 2 2 1 3 – 8 8 7 1 1 1 1 Edgbaston Pool 10 8 4 3 3 11 10 10 12 14 8 11 Marsh Lane NR 10 10 12 14 10 14 14 21 15 9 7 5

Warks Occupied nests were distributed as follows: Charlecote Park (20-22), Chesterton Wood (two-three), Coombe Abbey (63), Middleton Hall (21), Sweet Knowle (five) and Warwick Castle Park (15-17). No counts were available from either the Coleshill or Ragley heronries. In addition, a pair bred at Abbots Salford Pool for the first time rearing four young. Maxima at non-tabulated sites included 19 on the partly drained Great Pool in Packington Park on February 19th, 12 at Charlecote GP on July 12th, 11 at Ladywalk on December 21st and 11 at Coton on 28th. A mainly white leucistic bird at Alvecote on September 18th may have subsequently accounted for unconfirmed reports of a Great White Egret along the Anker in the Hartshill/Mancetter area during October. Worcs Two nests at Hewell Grange held six young, while breeding pairs were also observed at Grimley and Upper Bittell Reservoir, but no nest counts were received. A

59 yellow wing tagged bird (GA) noted at Kinsham Lake between April 8th-June 10th, plus at Bredon’s Hardwick between August 1st-September 10th, was marked as a nestling at Frampton, Gloucestershire on May 29th 2007. Away from the tabulated sites, nine were noted at Lower Moor on September 13th, while sighting also came from Arrow Valley Lake, Arrow Valley North, Ipsley Alders, Pirton Pool and the Wyre Forest. Staffs No comprehensive survey of Heronries this year, but nest counts came from the following sites: Aqualate 25, Consall no nest count but several birds seen carrying nest material, Cowhay NR two, Eccleshall 21, Hazelstrine 19-20, Ingestre six, Onecote Grange five, Stafford Brook SSSI two, Tittesworth three and Trentham Gardens 20-23. The only significant count not in the table was at Radford with 30 on March 16th. W Mid Breeding again occurred in Sandwell Valley, but no details were received of the number of pairs involved, though 17 plus birds were counted on May 9th. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 23 birds in 16 of the transects and eight of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central and east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge). One bird was recorded during the Mons Hill CBC. The count of 21 birds at Marsh Lane NR on August 3rd was a site record. Other high totals included 12 birds at Olton Mere on January 18th, eleven along Knowle Canal on February 11th, 12 at Wordsley on March 1st and 14 at Berkswell on April 14th.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Rare vagrant; escapes from collections occur (6/10). Staffs One was photographed at Barlaston on March 17th NBlo and was also seen flying north over Westport later that day DKel. This bird was also reported from Trentham Gardens on 16th but no description was submitted. It was believed to be a wild bird.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Very rare vagrant (1/10). Staffs One was photographed well during a two-hour visit to Belvide on October 21st DMay and becomes the third county record, none of which have been twitchable. The previous records were at Fradley in 1840 and over Burton-on-Trent on September 18th 2006.

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (9/10). An average showing for the species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 759911

Warks Two present at Alvecote on May 5th-6th RLS et al., was only the second reserve record. Staffs A juvenile spent from 10:15 until 19:20 at Belvide on September 13th SNut et al. W Mid A first-winter bird flew northwards over Marsh Lane NR on October 7th – the second record for the site per NPB.

60 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton/Lea Marston 7 10 – – 2 2 – 4 11 26 22 10 Draycote 37 28 11 4 – – 1 5 14 33 25 30 Salford Priors GP – 2 711101010131811106 Shustoke 10 16 11 2 – – 3 16 38 30 – 15 Grimley 4221820121418242826– – Gwen Finch Wetland 2 2 2 2 2 2 – – – – – 1 Kinsham Lake 7 6 7 10 6 10 14 14 16 14 14 14 Pirton Pool – 1 2 4 4 2 10 17 15 4 – 1 Upton Warren 3 5 2 4 4 4 3 3 9 10 6 2 Westwood Pool 3 6 4 5 1 2 4 23 14 5 7 3 Aqualate – 4 2 – – 6 – – – – – 2 Baggeridge CP – 1 1 – 1 – 5 6 – – – – Barton GP –––1123–12–21 Belvide 1144––14921– Blithfield –5–––1–24123 Branston GP – 10 5 5 3 2 1 8 6 14 – – Brookleys Lake – 2 – – – – – – – – 4 7 Chasewater 3 5 3 4 2 1 1 5 7 13 10 3 Coley Brook Marsh 1 – – 8 6 – – – – – – – Copmere 14 16 – – – – – – 3 7 2 10 Croxall NR 312–––––2221 Croxden Quarry 2266513––1–– Cuckoo Bank – – 1 2 1 3 11 2 – – – – Drayton Bassett Pits 3 – 2 2 – – – – – – – 8 Gailey Reservoir 3 – – – – – – 24 – – – – River Sow Baswich 615––––––3–4 Dunstall Park/ Smestow Valley 3132–1–21–33 Marsh Lane NR 4 4 5 6 8 10 12 18 17 5 2 1 Netherton Reservoir 6 5 2 3 – – – – 2 2 5 6 Ryders Mere 1335––398––2 Sandwell Valley – 2 2 1 – 2 3 – 1 2 – – Sheepwash UP 1 2 3 6 2 2 1 1 6 6 3 4 WeBS 2007 119 116 91 78 38 52 69 112 173 192 182 159 WeBS 2008 81 155 109 93 47 47 74 127 159 174 82 85 Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Alvecote, Brandon (three), Charlecote GP (three), Coombe Abbey, Coton, Cryfield, Frankton, Henley GC, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lighthorne area (two), Lower Radbourn (two), Morton Bagot, Napton Res (four), Ryton Pools CP, Salford Priors GP (five), Shuckburgh Park, Shustoke, Ufton Fields (two), Whitacre Heath NR (three) and Whittleford Park. Brandon had a maximum of 11 on February 9th, while up to ten were at both Ladywalk and Whitacre Heath NR during the spring and at Dosthill in December. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Grimley (six+), Kinsham Lake (three), Lower Moor (one), Ryall Pits (six) and Upton Warren (three broods), while pairs were observed at Gwen Finch Wetland, Pirton Pool, Throckmorton Lagoons and Westwood Pool during the breeding season. Away from the tabulated sites, one was at Arrow Valley North on January 9th, Lower Bittell Reservoir held one on 10th, singles at Arrow Valley North on July 26th and August 3rd, two at Reservoir on July 27th, Bredon’s Hardwick held one on September 13th, two on November 16th, then singles on 30th and December 14th, while one was at Lower Bittell Reservoir on December 1st. Staffs Breeding was confirmed from the following sites: at Baggeridge CP three young

61 on July 19th were being fed by both parents, four juveniles at Berry Hill on June 16th and at Blithfield two juveniles on September 7th. At Byrkley Park two pairs had a total of four broods but only two where known to have fledged, a pair with two young at Chatterley on August 8th, at Cuckoo Bank two juveniles were seen on June 17th with two broods of one and two present in July. Breeding was reported as successful at Doxey Marshes but no details were given, Gailey had a brood of five on August 24th and finally at Sugnall Park had a brood of five on July 22nd. Possible breeding took place at the following sites: at Apedale where an adult was sitting on well constructed nest on May 16th; at Coley Brook Marsh where three pairs present from May-June and at Oakamoor where a pair was on territory. No records of young were reported from these sites. Three juveniles at Barton GP on September 13th were not believed to be raised at the site. The only significant untabulated count was 19 at Branston GP on September 14th, W Mid One was recorded along the River Cole (east) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Birds bred at Babb’s Mill Lake, Blythe Valley, Edgbaston Pool, Fens Pools, Keresley Mere, Marsh Lane NR (six pairs), Meriden Park Pool, Ryders Mere, Sandwell Valley (a pair raised two young) and Sheepwash UP. Others were present during the breeding season at Berkswell, Bumble Hole LNR, Goscote Valley, Smethwick Hall Park, Sneyd Pool, Titford Pools and West Bromwich. Birds were also recorded at Buckpool, Cornets End (five on November 3rd), Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Lutley Wedge, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Rattlechain Mere (five on March 15th) and Warrens Hall LNR (six on December 3rd). Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 13 10 14 8 11 18 19 9 11 9 6 2 Coton/Lea Marston 10 16 – – 11 – 13 17 15 12 10 36 Draycote 328 223 104 75 62 84 91 147 177 200 230 264 Earlswood 10 21 24 26 26 24 20 12 16 26 18 19 Shustoke 71133– – –38748170167 Arrow Valley North – – 3 2 – 2 – – – – – – Bittell Reservoirs 53 2 30 35 16 7 11 6 10 – 41 45 Bredon’s Hardwick 6 8 9 7 – 6 11 12 8 1 2 2 Grimley 23546686554– Kinsham Lake 34444466311– Upton Warren 11 8 20 19 12 10 10 8 7 8 13 20 Westwood Pool 4 2 5 8 12 14 42 35 39 5 3 3 Alrewas – – 9 – 9 6 – – – – – – Aqualate – – 6 16 – – – – 17 – 5 3 Barton GP – – – 6 7 – 12 – 29 15 – – Belvide 91924121620221530602311 Blithfield 83 55 80 75 51 72 150 163 140 34 50 98 Branston Water Park 12 14 8 6 3 4 2 6 14 6 – – Chasewater 40 29 3 24 26 31 40 36 27 25 30 – Copmere 1 4 3 7 6 7 4 6 8 17 12 – Croxall NR 5 8 18 6 8 3 – 4 5 7 4 12 Doxey Marshes 3 4 6 6 6 8 3 1 2 3 5 1 Drayton Bassett Pits – – – – – – 3 2 – – – – Fisherwick & Elford GP 14 12 8 15 11 5 13 3 10 13 12 1 Gailey Reservoir 11 – – – – – – 20 – – – – Greenway Bank CP – 3 6 4 5 9 – – – – – – Knypersley Reservoir 2 2 6 6 8 7 17 20 13 4 4 2

62 JFMAMJ JASOND Rudyard Lake 22 4 33 – 18 16 10 2 2 6 9 13 Tittesworth 11 6 10 14 12 21 18 11 9 – – 5 Westport Lake 8 8 10 11 13 10 10 6 4 4 8 5 Whitemoor Haye 1––3––545221 Edgbaston Reservoir – – 8 12 7 – – – 4 2 5 15 Fens Pools 9 9 13 8 10 11 13 9 12 10 9 6 Marsh Lane NR 335444454421 Netherton Reservoir 1 2 2 2 1 1 4 2 4 2 3 2 Ryders Mere 211–––23–––2 Sandwell Valley 3 2 4 4 1 – 2 2 1 1 1 1 Sheepwash UP – – 1 4 4 1 3 6 2 2 3 4 Stubbers Green 1 1 1 2 6 1 1 – – – – 1 WeBS 2007 321 325 354 366 320 302 349 507 486 519 662 611 WeBS 2008 380 513 485 425 256 317 331 591 591 372 386 313

Warks Breeding pairs, not all successful, were reported from: Abbots Salford, Alvecote (several broods), Brandon (two of three nests produced young), Chesterton (two), Coleshill GP, Compton Verney (three nests, no young), Coombe Abbey, Coton, Draycote (two), Earlswood (three nests, no young), Edstone, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Middleton Hall Pool, Napton Res (three, all failed), Packington Great Pool (at least two), Water Orton GP (two), Wolvey Pools and Wormleighton Res (failed). The January count at Draycote is a new county record. Maxima during the year at non-tabulated waters included 11 at Seeswood Pool on March 27th, 13 at Napton Res on May 16th, 19 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area on September 16th and 16 on the Great Pool in Packington Park on November 25th. Worcs Reported as resident at Arrow Valley Lake and breeding pairs observed at Arrow Valley North, Hewell Grange, Kinsham Lake (two), Lower Moor (two), Throckmorton Lagoons and Upton Warren (three pairs, fledged three young). Reports away from the tabulated localities comprised 12 at Hewell Grange on February 6th, two at New Pool, , Malvern on 9th, six at Trimpley Reservoir on April 3rd, singles at Pirton Pool on May 18th and August 17th and 11 at Clifton Pits on December 5th. Staffs This year, reports of breeding came from Bathpool with four juveniles in May and Blithfield two pairs breeding in May. At Chasewater two juveniles in April, but before that in March a nesting male on Nine Foot Pool viciously attacked an intruding grebe and forced it over the weir, from where it was later rescued and returned to the lake. At Doxey Marshes three pairs were noted but only one of them was successful, raising three young. Drayton Bassett Pits held one juvenile in late July, at Hollybush Lake a pair was reported with young in June, at Tittesworth two pairs nesting but only one raising two young. At Tixall a pair was reported to have bred in May and at Westport two pairs attempted but only one pair hatched young having two broods of four and three, only one of which survived to the autumn. Elsewhere, breeding occurred at Agardsley Park, Alrewas, Aqualate, Copmere, Curborough, Ford Green NR, Newborough, Tixall and Whitmore – Cudmore Fisheries. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 25 birds in nine of the transects and four of the watercourses: River Cole (central and east – nine birds) and Sutton Park (central and Whyndley to Bracebridge – 16 birds). Birds bred at Babb’s Mill Lake, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Netherton Reservoir, Ryders Mere and Rocket Pool. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Sutton Park. A total of 16 birds were counted at Olton Mere on January 18th and December 19th, with smaller numbers noted at Hydes Road Pool, Walsall Arboretum and Windmill Lakes.

63 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Rare winter visitor and passage migrant (9/10) An average showing for the species albeit at a reduced level.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 30 19 35 16 16

Warks Draycote had a single bird from January 9th-12th KWar et al., and then two first- winters on November 2nd with one staying to the end of the year REH et al. Worcs An adult in full breeding plumage was an unexpected find at Clifton Pits on August 30th AHo et al.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. A continued but unfortunate decline.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 24 15 28 23 20

Slavonian Grebe at Gailey and Draycote, Steve Seal

Warks One was photographed at Draycote on January 6th SSe. Worcs A moulting adult frequented Westwood Pool on November 4th WDu et al., a welcome return after the last sighting also at Westwood in November 2002. Staffs The bird present at Blithfield from December 2nd 2007 remained until New Year’s Day then relocated to Chasewater from January 2nd until February 9th PDH, GEva. Following this, one was at Gailey from May 29th-June 1st SAR and another at Chasewater from November 17th-19th IWar, JWil. W Mid A winter-plumaged bird visited Edgbaston Pool on January 1st BRP.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, which sporadic breeding. Rare in winter. It is heartening to see a positive trend in numbers of the attractive grebe which continues to attempt to breed, though with not much success, in our area.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 43 54 81 129 167

64 Warks A pair in breeding plumage were at Draycote on April 18th PDH, RCM et al. Post-breeding records involved a well-watched juvenile at Shustoke from July 31st-August 12th LJoh, BLK et al., and one at Coton from December 6th-17th SMH et al. Worcs The poor run of birds in the county since 2006 continues, with the sole record being one at Westwood Pool on September 17th and 18th WDu et al. Staffs As in 2007, the single pair breeding in the county failed again due to distur bance. The first arrival was a summer-plumaged bird at Belvide from March 29th- April 1st, closely followed by two at Blithfield on March 31st and another two at Chasewater on April 2nd-3rd. After this, one lingered at Belvide from May 10th-13th. The first post- breeding birds were an adult with two juveniles at Drayton Bassett Pits from July 20th- 23rd, after which one juvenile departed on 24th, the other on Black-necked Grebe at Draycote, Steve Seal 25th, leaving the adult on its own from 26th-30th. One appeared at Blithfield on August 8th followed by an adult at Gailey on 10th, another at Drayton Bassett Pits from 14th-16th, then an adult and three juveniles at Gailey on 19th. A good series of sightings from Belvide commenced with a juvenile on 24th, joined by another on 26th, these joined by a third on September 3rd and all three remaining until 8th, after which two left and the other remained until 19th. At Drayton Bassett Pits, a juvenile arrived on September 4th, another on 8th and a third from 18th-23rd. Gailey hosted a juvenile on 7th. Finally, one was seen at Barton GP on September 21st and the last was at Chasewater on October 8th.

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor (9/10). Two 19th century breeding records. Warks The autumn invasion of continental birds brought at least ten birds to the county, including the first multiple sighting; and this total eclipses the former record of six reported during the autumn influx of 2000. The first record was of a pale bird chased by corvids and then departing south at Haseley Knob on September 15th JJB. One flew south- west at Bentley Woods on September 19th RED, while on 21st a pale bird flew south at Draycote RWSK and a dark bird flew south at Long Lawford JFCJ. At 12.10hrs on the same date a party of three, comprising two pale and one dark, moved south-west over Guy’s Cliffe, to be followed by possibly a different light bird which arrived from the south-west and then departed east at 12.35hrs CRS. Finally, a dark bird flew south-west over the Campion Hills, Lillington on October 22nd JJB, the latest ever record for the county. All were probably juvenile birds. In addition, highlighting that not all of the birds were necessarily of continental origin, a radio-tagged bird ringed as a juvenile female in the nest in the Scottish Highlands on July 27th after being tracked to Lancashire on September 17th, was detected spending the night of 18th/19th in a wood near Wolston per RDen.

65 Seven further birds were reported (three in spring and four during September 15th-October 6th) but these unfortunately lacked satisfactory details. Worcs One flew south along the Stour Valley at Caunsall on September 21st BWe and a dark morph individual was observed over Upton Warren on 29th PMA. Staffs A dark morph juvenile was photographed flying over Chasewater on September 22nd ASla. W Mid A Rufous-phase juvenile bird flew south over Marsh Lane NR on September 15th – the second local record per NPB.

Red Kite Milvus milvus Scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th Century. Warks A record year for sightings with at least 43 recorded (cf. 28 in 2007), of which 26 occurred during the period May-July, although some undoubtedly would be duplications of wandering birds. The only late winter report was of one flying east (appropriately) at Kites Hardwick on January 26th, before spring singles were noted at Wormleighton Res on March 10th, Studley on 27th, Chesterton Wood on 29th, Alvecote on April 21st and Long Lawford on 26th. An influx during May began with one east at Southam on 5th, followed by another at Ufton Tip and one between and Hunningham on 8th, singles flying east at Draycote, Keresley Newlands and Moreton Morrell on 9th, and then further singles at Stonebridge on 12th, Brandon on 13th, Toft Farm Lakes on 15th, Brandon again on 16th, Seeswood Pool on 20th, one east at Rugby on 29th and one north-west over Woodloes Farm, Warwick on 31st. A bird lingered in the Nuneaton-Hartshill area during June 6th-13th at least, while further sightings occurred at Alvecote and Kineton on June 9th, Tysoe on 10th, Brandon on 16th, Coleshill on 17th, Grandborough on 22nd and on 26th. The spate of sightings spilled into late summer with more singles at Longbridge on July 12th, Henley-in-Arden and Oxhill on 13th, Salford Priors GP on 20th, Brandon on 28th, flying east at Newton near Rugby on 30th, west along the River Avon near Bidford on August 5th, and finally at Kineton on 27th. Fewer were noted in autumn, with just singles at Brandon on September 26th and October 7th, Lawford Heath Tip on October 18th, south over Draycote on 30th, and on the Shuckburgh Hills on November 7th. Two were seen at on December 10th, followed by singles at Alcester on 15th and Bourton-on-Dunsmore on 30th. Worcs A huge increase in sightings with 66 individuals reported from 54 localities across the county. Singles were observed at Shenstone on February 25th, Alvechurch and Shrawley Wood on 29th, Castlemorton Common on March 5th, Hollywood on 7th, between Tardebigge Reservoir and Bromsgrove on 13th, Droitwich on 13th, 17th and April 17th, Lower Moor on March 17th, Beckford on 18th, Shenstone on 25th, Crabbs Cross on 27th, Brockhill on 29th and Happy Valley on 31st. April sightings comprised singles at Marlbrook on 2nd, on 9th, Bredon Hill and Upton Warren on 10th, Duckswich on 12th, Ashton-under Hill on 15th, Crossway Green on 17th, plus Croome Landscape Park and on 26th. During May reports came from Conderton, Finstall and West Hagley on 3rd, between Bromsgrove and Redditch, Conderton, Malvern Hills and Upton Warren on 7th, The Knapp on 12th, Lower Moor on 15th, Clifton Pits on 18th, Redditch on 20th, Grimley New Workings and Pershore on 22nd, near Earlswood Lake one flew into the county on 23rd, Kemerton on 28th and Great Malvern on 30th. June sightings comprised singles at Gwen Finch Wetland and Kemerton on 9th, Lower Bittell Reservoir on 10th, Great Comberton and Redhill in Worcester on 14th, Fish Hill on 20th, Wythall on

66 24th, Upton Warren on 24th and 25th, plus the M5/M42 junction on 25th. Observations became fewer during the second half of the year, with singles at junction 9 of the M5 and Clent Hills on July 8th, Grimley on 10th, Beckford on 12th, Wassell Grove on 26th, Honeybourne on 27th, Castlemorton Common on August 1st, Leigh Sinton on 8th, Holt on 24th, Caunsall and Clifton Pits on September 27th, Shenstone on 29th, on October 8th, Strensham Services on November 14th, Great Whitley on 27th, Bromsgrove on 30th, junction 5 of the M5 on December 7th and 18th and finally Captains Pool on 20th. Staffs This was by far the best year for sightings, all of single birds, with the majority (32) occurring in the first six months of the year, then two each in July and September, three in August, none in October-November and just one in December. Belvide recorded the most with five, then Cannock Chase with three. The only lingering bird was one at Fradley Junctions on January 8th-9th.

Year 1990-99 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Birds 13 9 4 3 15 4 11 12 14 40

W Mid One was flew over the Bourne Brook on June 4th during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham MMc, LWo. Single birds flew over Hampton-in-Arden (viewed from Marsh Lane NR) on March 27th and July 28th, Quinton on April 1st GHu, Claregate on 3rd PJG, Coombe on May 21st JEx, Wren’s Nest on the same date DIH and West Bromwich on 30th REH. The only autumn sightings involved singles over Long Knowle on September 13th GAC and viewed from Barr Beacon towards Sutton Park on 15th KMC.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce passage migrant. An encouraging increase in sightings with the best spell of records for many years.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 19 32 56 96 140

Warks Four unconfirmed or unconvincing reports predate the first of the spring migration, a female which flew north over Dunsmore Heath at the Fosse Way crossroads on April 5th JFCJ. Following a bird at Ladywalk on April 14th per SLC, there was a rare record from the west side of the county, an immature male hunting over the Avon meadows at Bidford on 22nd CJL before departing to the north-east. A female was hunting over fields by the River Swift near Churchover on May 25th-26th DFar. A strong set of post- breeding records began with a female at Brandon on July 10th JMR et al. A juvenile which flew through Draycote on July 31st DCo, RCM, was later refound at Grandborough. A female or juvenile flew west at Shustoke on August 6th LPr, PPr and another was at Ladywalk before departing north over Shustoke on 23rd SLC.A juvenile hunting over fields at Grandborough on August 29th-30th DCo, RCM was perhaps the same bird that was then resident in the Hodnell and Lower Radbourn area from at least August 30th- September 16th JJB, MJL. Three late records involved a juvenile flying west at Draycote on October 1st LJoh, RCM, a female flying south-west over Ilmington Downs on 11th JJB, and a very tardy male at Kingsbury on November 14th SPay, DWri. Worcs Spring passage migrants comprised a female at Upton Warren on April 18th KDo, MAh and a male at Upper Bittell Reservoir on April 17th PA n . Just a single autumn bird recorded at Upton Warren, where a juvenile was seen on August 30th PMA, PCo, LCo.

67 Staffs All sightings were of females, juveniles or sub-adults. The first flew west over Bobbington on April 5th, then one at Aqualate on May 1st-2nd showed again on 8th. Two birds were present at Doxey on 3rd and were seen again nearby at Seighford on 11th. Singles were noted at Knypersley on 5th, Berry Hill on 7th and Drayton Bassett Pits on 28th. There were no further sightings until July 24th when one arrived at Aqualate, followed by a juvenile at Blithfield on 28th, Bobbington on August 11th, Belvide on 16th and Blithfield on 17th and 22nd. Two long-staying birds lingered at Aqualate from August 29th-September 24th and Doxey from October 19th-22nd. The last bird was again at Doxey on November 30th. W Mid A female /juvenile bird flew over Marsh Lane NR on September 18th per NPB.

2005 Addendum W Mid A juvenile bird was seen at Meriden Gravel Pits on August 7th GJM.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in Staffs in 1974-5 and 1979. The best period of records for 25 years.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 23 38 41 33 84

Warks An exceptional year with at least 11 individuals recorded. The only reports during the first quarter were of single ringtails at Hartshill Hayes on February 3rd GSh and Sherbourne on March 6th-7th NBe. The first autumn report was of a ringtail flying south near Middleton on September 25th JHa, followed by a male at Hartshill on October 12th SLC. Subsequently a radio-tagged juvenile male, known to have been ringed as a pullus in Forest of Bowland, frequented the Tame Valley on both sides of the county border in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area from October 31st to the end of the year ARD, JHa et al. It was joined by a probable adult female on December 24th BLK and reportedly again on 29th, and by an adult male on 25th WJE, BLK. There was also a report of a ringtail seen at Ladywalk on December 29th per SLC which presumably involved one of these birds. Elsewhere in the county, there was a male at Grandborough on October 27th RCM, a juvenile at Fenny Compton on 30th JJB, a male at Brandon on November 8th BMCG and a ringtail at Hodnell on 16th JJB, MJL, which reportedly was later seen at Priors Hardwick. Worcs A juvenile was observed hunting over arable fields between Evesham and Hinton-on-the-Green on many dates between November 30th-December 29th CJD et al. Staffs On the North Staffs Moors, up to four birds were seen at the regular Swallow Moss roost from January 1st until April 9th although there were probably a male, a sub- adult male and three females in the area during the time. Daytime sightings of these birds occurred across the Moors. On June 28th a male seen briefly at Royal Cottage, was considered to be this species JGoo. Autumn birds on the North Staffs Moors appeared from October 31st onwards with at least two males, a sub-adult male and a female present. Elsewhere, a ringtail was seen at Coal Brook, Hales on January 27th RFus, a male was on Cannock Chase in the Sherbrook Valley area on 28th BWS and a ringtail was also recorded there on March 14th RCB, having been reported there by others a few days earlier. A radio- tagged juvenile male was seen regularly in the Drayton Bassett Pits/Dosthill area from October 30th until November 16th JHa. The tag was identified as being fitted on a

68 nestling in the Forest of Bowland earlier that year, so was a welcome discovery for the RSPB monitoring scheme. It, or another ring-tail, was seen sporadically thereafter until December 21st JHa.

Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant (6/10). Warks A ringtail was present for a short time at Abbots Salford Pool on May 5th JJB, before departing high to the south-east. This was the tenth county record within current boundaries, the last two having been recorded in 2005.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. Warks A single bird was seen at a potential breeding site in the north of the county on April 23rd. Outside the breeding season there were reports of a female over Fisher’s Mill GP on March 5th and 27th JHa, a juvenile female at Mancetter Quarry on September 13th JHa, and a (probably) female bird at Brandon on November 5th BMCG. Worcs Single females were noted at Upton Warren on March 15th DREW et al., and Stoke Bliss on November 14th RMas. Staffs Other than a female at a known nest site in May, no other substantiated records were received this year.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks Birds appear to be less frequent in the county than a decade ago, perhaps losing out in competition with the ever expanding Buzzard population. Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were reported from just nine sites (cf. 15 in both 2006 and 2007), at Brandon, Bunkers Hill Wood, Burton Dassett, Earlswood, Fenny Compton, Rugby, Salford Priors GP, Whittleford Park and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Very few records were received and the only confirmed breeding records involved two juveniles at Little Comberton on July 30th and two juveniles at Deerfold Wood on August 2nd. One or two birds were observed at Arrow Valley Lake on four occasions, Arrow Valley North on 11 occasions and Bittell Reservoirs on 11 occasions and a single was present at Hewell Grange on four occasions. Singles were observed occasionally throughout the year at Abberton, while two were noted at Beoley on December 19th. Staffs This species continues to be reported widely, with breeding confirmed at Ashwood, Blithfield, Doxey, Maer and Westport Lake. Prey species included Brambling, Collared Dove, Redwing and Wood Pigeon. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of seven birds in four of the transects and three of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Rea (Cannon Hill) and Sutton Park (Longmoor). Birds bred in most of the larger woodlands in the Coventry/ area. At least three pairs bred along Smestow Valley and one territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Acock’s Green, Berkswell, Birmingham city centre, Blythe Valley, Cradley Heath, Dunstall Park, Elkin Wood, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Hawkes End Wood, Hawkes Mill Wood, Lightwoods Park, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Netherton, Park Lime Pits, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Rowley Regis, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Stevens Park,

69 Stourbridge, Sutton Park, West Bromwich and Westwood Heath. Others were noted at Aldridge, Blackheath, Bradmore, Bumble Hole LNR, Bury’s Hill, Chelmsley Wood, Coombes wood, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge Park, Dudley, Edgbaston, Elmdon Park, Goscote Valley, Harborne, King’s Heath Park, Kingswinford, Minworth STW, Norton, Oakham, Olton Mere, Penn, Rough Wood, Sedgley, Selly Oak, Tettenhall, Warley Woods, Wednesbury, Willenhall, Windsor Fields and Wollaston.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Now easily our most numerous raptor, with breeding pairs reported from all parts of the county. Groups of up to a dozen birds were frequent, with larger counts mainly in the post-breeding period including 15 at Salford Priors GP on August 17th, 14 at Arley on 22nd, 14 at Lighthorne Quarry on September 13th, 13 over Dunsmore Heath on 21st, 18 feeding on worms in a ploughed field at Snitterfield on December 8th and up to 16 in a field at Little Packington during the same month. Prey species recorded included a Grass Snake at Brandon and a Brown Hare at Wishaw. Worcs Common and widespread in the county, though just five nesting pairs reported at Bodenham Arboretum, Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor and Ryall Pits. The highest counts com - prised five at Upton Warren on April 5th, six at Kinsham Lake on 8th, Bredon Hill held nine on 8th, seven on May 7th and 10 on October 16th, Five were at Grimley New Workings on July 31st, 10+ at Abberton on September 14th, 15 at Sheriff’s Lench on 21st and four at Gwen Finch Wetland on December 26th. Maximum locality counts on unspecified Common Buzzard at Wishaw, Steve Seal dates included four at Beacon Wood, four at Hewell Grange and six in the Wyre Forest. Staffs Breeding was reported from 19 sites including Aqualate, Blithfield and Doxey. Passage was recorded at Blithfield on July 28th when 30 birds flew south during the day with other raptors, and at Belvide where a similar number passed south on September 13th. Other double-figure counts were 10 at Tittesworth in March, 10 at Branston GP on March 17th, 14 at Chasewater on April 4th, 11 at Doxey on 6th with 10 on 13th, 10 at Belvide on 13th and again on September 13th, 11 at Croxden Quarry on September 14th, 10 at Rodbaston on 17th and Essington Quarry Pool on 19th, 20 at Belvide on October 2nd and 12 at River Sow Meadows on 18th. W Mid Birds bred in most woodlands in the Coventry/Solihull area e.g. Belcher’s, Bunson’s, Elkin, Hall Yard, Hawkes End, Pikehorne and Pinkett’s Woods. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded just one bird, in Sutton Park (Longmoor). As last year, one territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Aldridge,

70 Amblecote, Barr Beacon, Berkswell, Birmingham Airport, Blackheath, Blythe Valley, Bowmans Harbour, Brownhills, Bunson’s Wood, Bumble Hole LNR, Clayhanger (two pairs locally), Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Harborne, Kingswinford, Lapal, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Pelsall, Reedswood Park, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Sneyd, Stourbridge, Sutton Park, Turner’s Hill, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Wollaston and Wren’s Nest. High spring counts spring included eight birds over Smestow Valley on March 27th and ten at Marsh Lane NR on April 6th and 27th. In September, a minimum of 23 birds flew south-westwards over Sutton Park on 14th, 20 to 25 were seen around Marsh Lane NR on 15th and 15 flew south-westwards over Barr Beacon on 18th.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus Uncommon passage migrant. A remarkable 100% increase in numbers in the past five years, with an increase in sightings of summering birds too.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 28 65 87 121 259 Warks The first spring reports were of one seen over Grandborough and then Draycote on April 5th, with a second bird the same day at Alvecote. Further sightings of short- staying single birds (with possibly some duplication) during April came from Earlswood Lakes on 8th, Brandon on 9th, flying west over Rugby on 11th, flying through the Kingsbury area on 12th and 14th, visiting Packington Park on 14th and 21st, and then at Draycote on 18th, Shustoke on 23rd and Kingsbury on 27th. The final spring record was of one in Packington Park on May 15th, while summer reports involved one circling over Middleton village on May 29th, and singles visiting Draycote on June 9th and July 27th. After a bird was seen at Draycote on August 23rd, there were three longer staying but often frustratingly irregular birds in the county, with sightings at Shustoke from September 6th- 15th, Draycote from 7th-15th and Compton Verney from 17th-October 2nd. The only other reports were of singles moving south over Long Lawford on September 14th (the Draycote bird?) and Rugby on 26th. Worcs A reasonably strong spring and autumn passage recorded. Spring sightings comprised singles at Upton Warren on April 4th AYo, and May 14th ELe, Kyre Pool on April 8th RMas, Clifton Pits on 13th AHo and May 4th BHar, Bredon Hill on April 14th SPag and Westwood Pool on 15th TMH. A tagged adult female (AKA Logie) being tracked by a GPS signal, while on migration from Africa, to her breeding grounds in Scotland, roosted in Peck Wood, near Romney Green on the afternoon of April 15th per FHe and was observed at Lower Bittell Reservoir MLi, JLin, JTr, NWo and Clent Hills PA n the following day, roosted for the night in a tree alongside the M42 near Alvechurch and then visited Upper Bittell Reservoir and Clent Hills CRR, on the morning of the 17th, before heading north. Autumn passage commenced with one at Upton Warren DREW, and singles at Upper Bittell Reservoir on August 19th DJa, and 20th SOw, AOw. One flew over Dagnell End Lane, Redditch on September 10th SDi, while Clifton Pits held singles on 21st AHarl and October 8th MJI, one was commuting between a small pool at The Fulhams and Kyre Pool between September 29th-October 2nd MMo et al. Singles also observed over Worcestershire Beacon on October 8th IBu, at Witley Court on 22nd and 23rd per estate office, plus over Bewdley on 30th MFl.

71 Staffs The best year on record for sightings, the first being single birds flying through Blithfield on March 30th and 31st. In April, passage was recorded at Apedale CP (two), Belvide (two), Blithfield (four), Chasewater, Coombes Valley RSPB, Dosthill, Packington Moor, Rudyard, Tittesworth (two) and Uttoxeter Quarry. In May, birds were noted at Tittesworth on 3rd, Blithfield and Drayton Bassett Pits on 18th and Blithfield again on 30th. In June, a bird took up residence at Blithfield from 6th-26th. Return passage saw one at Blithfield on July 7th, another from 10th-16th increasing to two from 17th until September 11th during which time a third was seen on July 20th and two new birds passed through on July 28th. Elsewhere, singles passed through Brewood and Tittesworth on August 17th, another commuted between Tittesworth and Rudyard Lake on 21st, then singles at Silverdale Colliery on September 3rd, Chasewater on 6th, Belvide and Aqualate on 13th and Blithfield on 19th. The last birds were two at Blithfield and one over Swallow Moss on 21st.

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Birds 17116 211639331941

W Mid In the spring, single birds flew over Marsh Lane NR on May 18th GPR, DJS and Dunstall Park on June 9th ADi. Autumn passage saw up to three birds flying over Marsh Lane NR with the space of an hour in the afternoon of August 24th per NPB, MJI and one on September 6th.

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote, Corley, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Maxstoke (where three pairs), Morton Bagot, Napton, Salford Priors GP (three pairs in area), Upper Kingston, Upper Shuckburgh (three pairs in area) and Wormleighton Res. The largest assembly reported was six hunting in one field near Toft Farm Lakes on October 14th. A very pale leucistic female was seen at Lighthorne Quarry on October 19th. Worcs The only breeding data received comprised a pair with young at Longdon Marsh on July 21st. Records received were of singles or pairs at Arrow Valley Lake, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon’s Hardwick, British Camp, Castlemorton Common, Clifton Pits, , Elmley Lovett Trading Estate, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Little Comberton, , Redditch, Ripple Pits, Ryall Pits, Upper Arley, Upton- upon-Severn Upper Ham, Upton Warren, Wilden, and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Due to increased coverage from the BTO Atlas Survey, this bird was reported from 229 sites this year (cf. 146, 90 and 119 in the previous three) and it continues to be widespread within the county. Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate (one-two), Belvide, Berry Hill, Blithfield (three), Byrkley Park, Ecton, Forsbrook, Goldsitch Moss, Iverley, Lordsley GP, Park Hall CP, River Sow Meadows, Silverdale Colliery, Windy Harbour and Yoxall Park. Notable counts included five at Cuckoo Bank on September 19th and The Roaches on November 1st. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of four birds in four of the transects and three of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, River Tane (west) and Sutton Park (Longmoor). Birds were also present during the breeding season at Aldridge, Amblecote, Berkswell, Black heath, Bowmans Harbour, Brueton Park, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Great Barr, The Leasowes, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs – one

72 successful), Mons Hill CBC plot, Reedwood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Steelpark Way, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, Tettenhall, West Bromwich and Westwood Heath. Otherwise noted at Allesley Park, Barr Beacon, Bartley Reservoir, Blythe Valley, Bury’s Hill, Cornets End, Cradley Heath, Dorridge, Haden Hill Park, Harborne NR, Hawne Park, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, Kingswinford, Longford, Mercote Mill Farm, Minworth STW, Park Lime Pits, Priory Fields, Sedgley Beacon, Small Heath and Walsall Arboretum. Five birds were present at Marsh Lane on May 7th.

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon winter visitor. Rare breeding species on the northern moors. Warks During January singles were noted at Draycote on 1st, Coleshill (female/ immature) on 16th, and near Chesterton Wood (male) on 20th. On February 2nd a pair was watched hunting larks at Marlcliff, while single female types were noted at both Wishaw and Wootton Wawen on 6th, Coombe Abbey and Fulbrook on 10th, Alvecote from 19th- 25th, Wasperton on 22nd and Grandborough on March 2nd. Spring records included a male at Wasperton on March 17th, one at Coton on 22nd, and single females at Napton Hill on 24th and Radway on April 1st. Four late reports concerned a bird seen chasing Swallows at Draycote on April 20th, with perhaps the same seen later in the day at Napton Res; a male on the Fenny Compton Hills on 21st and a female at Birchmoor on 22nd. A very unseasonal male hunting at Birchmoor on June 22nd RLS was the first county record for this month. The first autumn bird returned to Coombe Abbey on September 14th, with this bird being regularly seen in the area until the end of the year. Further incoming birds were noted at Dunsmore Heath on September 21st, Wishaw on 22nd, Broadwell on 25th and Draycote (a male) on October 1st. A female was at Salford Priors GP on October 5th, with a juvenile male there on November 2nd and a female again on December 7th. A female at Grandborough on several dates during October 12th-November 20th was probably the same bird that was seen regularly at nearby Draycote from November 4th-December 4th, while a male was at the latter site on November 20th and from December 14th-21st. These birds may also have accounted for sightings of a male at Lawford Heath on October 31st and a female on December 26th. Further more isolated sightings consisted of single adult males near Bearley Bushes on October 18th, Lighthorne Quarry on 19th and Worm - leighton on 25th, the latter bird preying upon a huge Linnet flock. Females were reported from Dosthill on October 27th, near Hampton Wood on November 19th (where it was hunting larks), Kineton on 29th, Chapel Ascote on 30th, and at Caldecote on December 29th. Worcs During the first winter period and early spring, one was noted at Grimley on January 23rd and 24th, single males at Lower Park Farm Pool on 31st, on February 4th and Churchill on 5th and a female at Ryall Pits on 10th. In March, a male flew over the A450 between Torton Island and Black Bridge, on 5th, a male was noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on 7th, a male at Grimley on 19th and 21st and one at Norchard on 26th, while during April, a male was seen at Wolverley on 12th, a female at Wassell Grove Pools on 17th and finally a female at Bittell Reservoirs on 19th. Late autumn and second winter period sightings comprised females at Westwood Park on September 23rd, on 26th, Clifton Pits on 27th and Bredicot on October 3rd, males were noted at Longdon Marsh on November 4th, Old Road South, Kempsey on 12th and Lower Park Farm Pool on 22nd, a female frequented Gwen Finch Wetland on 25th, while in December, Wick held a male on 1st and 2nd, a female was observed over arable

73 fields between Evesham and Hinton-on-the-Green on 3rd, 4th, 8th and 14th, a male at Croome Perry Crossroads on 9th, a female at Clifton Pits on 13th, with one here on 20th, plus a pair were observed at Lower Moor on 29th. Staffs This year one pair fledged two young and another pair nested but probably failed, however this is the first year in many that more than one pair nested and the species continues to cling on as a county breeder. In the first winter period a female and a male were seen intermittently at Croxall and Whitemoor Haye between January 1st and March 24th. Elsewhere there was, one at Ellenhall on January 2nd, a female at Swallow Moss on 21st and 26th, a female at Blithfield on 27th, a male at Drayton Bassett Pits on 28th, a female at Doxey on February 16th, a female at Chasewater on March 27th, a female at Blithfield on 28th, one at Hazel Barrow on 30th, a female at Gailey and a male at Horton on April 6th and one at Blithfield on 17th. One was seen at Tittesworth on June 22nd, July 13th and 29th and August 11th. In the post-breeding period, a juvenile was recorded at Chasewater on August 10th, one at Berry Hill on 22nd, a female at Swallow Moss on September 14th, one at Tittesworth on 24th, a female at Whitemoor Haye on 29th and October 6th, a female at Belvide on 15th, a male at Swallow Moss on 26th , another at Keele University on November 21st and one at Broad Meadow – Tamworth on December 26th. W Mid Sightings involved presumably the same female/juvenile bird at Marsh Lane on January 1st per NPB, 5th GPR and 13th per NPB, single birds in Lutley Wedge on March 16th CRou, April 11th CRou and October 29th SCl, a female/immature at Wiggins Hill on September 22nd SMH and single female/immatures at Babb’s Mill Lake on November 12th JJB, Clayhanger on 22nd CMas and Goscote Valley on December 18th PA J N .

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon, but increasing, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 20th (41) to October 7th (43) 8-year average: April 7th (–13 days) to October 15th (+8 days) First arrival was at Brandon on April 9th and the last at Upper Arley on October 10th; both dates in line with recent trends. Warks A total of 22 probable breeding pairs were located, but this is possibly less than half the true population. Seven nests were located from which 12 young flew. Apart from an early bird at Brandon on April 9th, the first migrants were noted at Gaydon on 21st and Hill on 22nd, with daily records thereafter. During the May-June period there were counts of up to five at Ladywalk, four at Brandon and three at Salford Priors GP and in the Kingsbury area. There was again an early departure in autumn, with most last dates occurring during the period September 13th-23rd, and the last report concerning two at Salford Priors GP on 28th. Worcs A single report of a breeding pair came from a site in the extreme north of the county, though nesting pairs know doubt went undetected, as observations between mid May and late July came from 28 widely scattered localities across the county, plus a juvenile was reported from Upton Warren on June 16th. The first spring arrival was noted at Grimley on April 10th, followed by singles at Upton Warren on 16th, 19th and 25th, while singles unless otherwise stated were noted at Thockmorton on 18th, Birlingham, Bredon Hill (two), Conderton, Old Yarr and Wassell Grove on 26th, Clifton Pits (two), Kinsham Lake and Lickmoor Wetland on 27th, again at Kinsham on 29th and at Holt, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool on 30th. Maximum spring counts comprised three at Birlingham on May 2nd and three at Upton Warren on 12th. Also observed during May at

74 Bransford Court, Bredon’s Hardwick, Broadway Gravel Pit, Eckington, Gwen Finch Wetland, Hallow, Kinsham Lake (two) Oakley Pool, Ryall Pits (two) and Throckmorton Lagoons. Sightings increased considerably from early August, with 97 reports coming from 38 localities, including juveniles at The Knapp on August 29th and Ryall Pits on September 27th and 28th, while maximum counts involved four and three at Birlingham on August 15th and 28th respectively and three at Ryall Pits on September 20th. The final four reports of the autumn comprised singles at Longdon Marsh on September 29th, Upton Warren and Abberton on October 5th and Upper Arley on 10th. Staffs The first returning bird arrived at Aqualate on April 13th and Hobby at Brandon, Steve Seal one at Belvide on 14th was the earliest ever date for this site. Others were quick to follow, with five at Aqualate on 30th and at Cannock Chase – Rifle Range on May 1st the largest groupings. Breeding was confirmed from sites near Stourton, Belvide and Blithfield, and on Cannock Chase. There were summer reports from 33 other widespread sites, so pairs will almost certainly have nested elsewhere in the county. One of the more unusual observations was of a juvenile, hawking insects by floodlight at 22.30 during an evening match at the Britannia Stadium, Stoke on August 8th. Birds were seen regularly until September 21st, with the last on 24th at the National Memorial Arboretum. W Mid Four pairs bred successfully, raising at least nine young between them. Birds were regularly noted at Marsh Lane NR, including three on June 5th and August 19th, and four on 24th. Single birds were seen in Sutton Park on May 22nd, June 6th and July 26th, Clayhanger and Stubbers Green on June 7th, July 18th and August 9th, Marston Green on June 8th, Goscote Valley on July 21st, Dunstall Park on August 1st, West Bromwich on 18th and 21st, Reedswood Park on 23rd, Knowle on 25th, Clayhanger on 27th and September 10th, Lutley on August 30th, Smestow Valley late in the month and on September 6th, Balsall Common on 12th and Blythe Valley CP on 17th. At Barr Beacon, two birds were noted on September 16th, three on 18th and one on 19th.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Warks A record six pairs were occupying potential breeding territories, including one at a new site in a central district. Of these, five were thought to have hatched young, although at one site in the east they were thought to have either died or been stolen. At only one site was a juvenile known to have fledged, although information concerning fledging was not forthcoming from the other sites. Away from breeding sites, one or two birds were seen often regularly from a total of 63 sites, with an apparent increase in sightings across the Tame Valley. Items of interest included a Golden Plover picked up dead below a roosting

75 site at St Mary’s Church in the centre of Warwick in March, a juvenile female talon-grappling briefly with a juvenile Hobby at Salford Priors GP on August 17th, and a bird stooping at a Spotted Redshank at Coleshill GP on 22nd, but happily missing. Worcs Nesting pairs reported from five localities, with two young fledged from one site west of the county, while vandals destroyed another nest also in the west of the county. The Worcester City Centre pair that nested on St. Andrews spire Peregrines at Warwick, Steve Valentine hatch and fledged two young, while breeding success at the final two localities was not reported. Juveniles were observed during the autumn and second winter period at Bredon Hill, Kinsham Lake, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor, Stoke Bliss, Upton Warren and White Ladies Aston. Regularly encountered throughout the year, with reports coming from 59 localities across the county. Staffs Nesting was recorded at nine sites, up by two from 2007. In addition, two sites in city centres were prospected by presumably young birds, which didn’t nest. Sadly two of the nine pairs were prevented from breeding successfully by the setting of spring-traps, which the Police believed was the work of pigeon fanciers. The remaining pairs raised three, two, two, two and one young, another pair failed when their single chick fell out of the nest and the outcome for the final pair was unknown. W Mid Pairs bred in Birmingham city centre and at Fort Dunlop. Birds attempted to nest at the same quarry as last year, but the eggs were found broken and the adults not seen subsequently. Two birds were seen displaying at the University of Birmingham on April 21st. A regular visitor to Marsh Lane NR, with single birds seen in every month except June, the same female noted almost daily during July and August, and two birds on two dates in September and December. A bird flew over Clayhanger on January 5th, with perhaps the same reported in the Clayhanger/Pelsall area during the year. Single birds were also seen at Oldbury on January 7th, Smestow Valley on 9th, March14th, July 17th and October 18th, Sandwell Valley on January 20th, May 9th, August 21st and November 5th, Lutley Wedge on January 30th and February 1st and 9th, Coventry city centre on 28th, Small Heath on March 2nd, Elmdon Park on 24th, Reedswood Park on April 20th, Goscote Valley on May 2nd, Sutton Park on September 16th, Barr Beacon on 17th and Lapal on October 10th.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Gwen Finch Wetland 2 4 1 – – 2 3 3 3 7 6 7 Kinsham Lake 2 – – 1 1 1 1 – 1 1 – 1 Lower Moor 6 6 6 6 – – – – 1 2+ 2+ 6

76 JFMAMJ JASOND Upton Warren 888888666666 Westwood Pool 222210002224 Marsh Lane NR 2221–1211112 Sandwell Valley 1 4 1 – – – 2 2 1 1 2 3

Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (several broods noted, the first of five young on May 25), Coombe Abbey, Ladywalk, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP (brood seen) and at New Waters, in Warwick Castle Park. Singles were also noted in May-June at Eathorpe Marsh, Whitacre Heath NR and Whittleford Park. Outside the breeding season the best counts at the main sites were of eight at Brandon on January 8th and eight at Salford Priors GP on August 31st. At lesser sites there were three at both Judkins Quarry on February 10th and Whittleford Park on December 29th, while one or two were further noted at: Abbey Fields Pool (), Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Charlecote GP, Compton Verney, Coton, Dosthill/Kingsbury area (several sites), Draycote, Edstone, Guy’s Cliffe, Merevale Park (Abbey Pools), Sawbridge, Seeswood Pool, Stoneleigh, Toft Farm Lakes, Ufton Fields, Wasperton and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Bred successfully at Gwen Finch Wetland (two juveniles observed) and at Upton Warren, while resident during the breeding season at Grimley, Kinsham Lake and Oakley Pool. Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised one at Ryall Pits on January 13th, two at Ashmoor Common on 16th, one on a small stream at Huntsbridge on February 17th, three at Puxton Marsh on 18th, four and two at Grimley on 23rd and 24th respectively, one at Abberton on 24th, one at the Winter Gardens, Great Malvern on 27th, one at Abberton on 29th and one at Arrow Valley Lake on March 15th. During the second winter period, singles were noted at Mill Shrub Pool on October 4th, Grimley Old Workings on 28th, Longdon Marsh on November 4th and December 30th, Arrow Valley Lake and Mill Shrub Pool on November 26th, Grimley on 29th and December 5th, Hurcott Pool on December 3rd and Grimley on 6th, then two here on 14th. One+ was also recorded at Rous Lench during October and December. Staffs During the early months of the year the species was reported from Alvecote Pools – Pretty Pigs Pool, Aqualate, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Baggeridge CP, Belvide, Berry Hill, Branston GP, Chasewater, Cheadle, Croxall NR, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Gailey Reservoir, Hales Hall Pool, Hill Chorlton, Himley, Westport and Woodhead. Higher counts were three birds at Branston GP on January 9th, four at Belvide on January 12th and good numbers noted throughout at Doxey where the highest count of 14 birds was made on February 10th. Breeding was confirmed only at Doxey, where 28 pairs were considered to be holding territory, but probably occurred at Astonfields Balancing Lakes and Aqualate. In the later months Doxey again held good numbers with the highest count of 10 noted on November 16th, five were present at Drayton Bassett Pits on November 6th and three were at Barton GP on December 29th. Other sites hosting birds were Aqualate, Belvide, Betley Mere, Copmere, Dosthill, Knypersley Reservoir and Tittesworth. W Mid Breeding occurred at Marsh Lane NR again (an adult and three chicks were seen on June 14th and at least one youngster was thought to have fledged) and Sandwell Valley (a juvenile bird was seen from July). A bird was heard calling in Goscote Valley on May 21st, where up to three had been noted from February 13th-27th and one again on November 12th. Singles birds were also seen at Blythe Valley CP on January 16th, Smestow Valley on 26th and Clayhanger on February 18, Reedswood Park on 20th and Elmdon Park on March 24th. Later in the year, at least two birds remained at Clayhanger during October and November, and single birds were recorded at Babb’s Mill Lake on

77 November 12th, Sheepwash UP on 29th, Saltwells LNR on December 7th and 31st, and Dunstall Park and Fens Pools on December 30th. Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Bittell Reservoirs 6 10 9 2 – 1 3 8 2 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 12 1 – 2 – 1 3 – – 2 – 2 Grimley 56 41 52 32 26 38 36 28 34 19 21 27 Gwen Finch Wetland 6 6 6 6 8 8 20 18 10 24 15 10 Kinsham Lake 6 10 6 10 4 4 6 8 8 10 10 5 Pirton Pool 2 6 6 9 7 12 15 18 23 9 6 3 Upton Warren 12 15 15 12 12 10 10 10 34 35 15 17 Westwood Pool 2534241067552 Alrewas –74–48–7–––– Astonfields Balancing Lake 9 – 7 – – 4 – – – – – 11 Baggeridge CP – 10 10 4 9 – – – – – – 15 Belvide 6–9––––––––– Blithfield – – 3 2 1 11 – 2 1 1 2 – Branston Water Park 6 3 1 4 – 2 22 1 13 5 – – Burton-on-Trent 7 7 5 6 10 11 8 11 – 21 17 10 Chasewater 15 18 5 – 3 1 7 24 – 21 6 – Copmere 2 9 9 5 – – 3 1 1 2 – 1 Croxall NR 5 5 5 4 – – – 17 4 5 3 – Doxey Marshes 192218221432301517152115 River Sow Meadows 23 14 25 – – – p 8 2 12 4 – Tittesworth 232322112223 Westport Lake – – – – – 1 4 10 12 16 16 17 Fens Pools 8 8 11 4 10 4 5 4 13 9 24 29 Marsh Lane NR 12 p 6 6 5 12 4 10 10 p 16 14 Netherton Reservoir 6 5 9 8 6 8 3 5 4 2 16 15 Sandwell Valley tetrad SP09A 12 12 10 6 4 2 2 5 10 10 10 12 Sheepwash UP 12 14 9 7 6 4 3 7 9 6 4 8 Stubbers Green 13 6 1 2 – – 1 1 4 – – 11 Warks A minimum of seven broods were raised at Brandon, while five pairs bred on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot where there has been a gradual increase since 2003. Further breeding records included a nest built on flood debris trapped a few feet up the side of Bidford Bridge, and a brood of ten chicks hatched on a garden pond at Whitehall Farm, Kites Hardwick. Maxima outside the breeding season remains low and included 21 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on February 11th, 36 at Farnborough Park on 23rd, 26 at Brandon on August 30th, 20 at Napton Res on October 14th, and 35 at Coombe Abbey on 19th. Worcs A common and successful breeding species on any suitable wetland habitat, throughout the county, including five nesting pairs at Bodenham Arboretum, which fledged 17 young. The only count away from the tabulated sites comprised 40 at Mill Pond, Castlemorton on December 14th. Staffs Small numbers were reported in the first part of the year from many sites around the county with double-figure counts received from Baggeridge CP, Doxey and on the River Sow Meadows at Baswich, where 25 were noted on March 15th. Confirmed breeding came from 43 sites, including Doxey where 32 pairs were considered to be breeding. During the second winter period no exceptional counts were noted, although Chasewater held at least 24 birds on August 17th and 31 were noted at Himley Park on December 15th.

78 W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 31 birds in 24 of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central and east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central, Keepers Pool and Whyndley to Bracebridge). At least six pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, hatching 20 young, at least half of which fledged. Away from tabulated sites, maximum counts included 13 birds at The Leasowes on January 9th, 15 at Buckpool on 26th, 14 at Whyndley Pool on February 24th, 25 at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th, 12 at Warrens Hall LNR on December 3rd and 14 at Walsall Arboretum on 19th.

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

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 55 48 19 24 36 43 47 81 80 85 68 69 Coton/Lea Marston 205 210 – – – 62 – 237 311 398 396 – Dosthill/Kingsbury – – – – – – – – 185 300 – – Draycote 700 256 227 43 – – 170 401 471 615 503 500 Napton Res 145 110 85 50 – – 70 73 93 145 178 200 Salford Priors GP 30 12 24 30 32 33 43 54 95 116 133 151 Shustoke – 85 62 – – – 159 212 300 – – 150 Bittell Reservoirs 23 24 20 22 8 40 65 48 9 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 133 114 68 31 – 59 65 52 49 21 61 98 Grimley 60 70 90 – 65 76 87 96 126 56 86 90 Gwen Finch Wetland 5 18 18 10 6 10 8 2 8 20 20 23 Kinsham Lake 111 91 75 45 36 52 79 126 128 152 160 175 Pirton Pool 10 51 46 35 34 85 126 160 198 125 98 63 Upton Warren 250 205 120 57 30 49 150 245 292 380 460 300 Westwood Pool 159 21 22 19 50 50 226 344 400 25 12 27 Aqualate – 300 – 10 60 – – – 20 – – 8 Barton GP – – –402437197–76825560 Belvide 315 335 260 – 371 676 904 1184 571 225 295 231 Blithfield 115 329 318 154 123 358 – 438 120 66 107 180 Branston Water Park 215 90 54 50 13 44 86 89 164 227 – – Chasewater 443 284 205 130 99 262 267 522 – 12 419 800 Copmere 730 384 214 89 56 119 203 374 450 414 21 82 Croxall NR 51 30 – 6 – – – – 24 – – – Doxey Marshes 254853512952555071859951 Fisherwick & Elford GP 44 43 55 30 45 46 92 14 20 25 23 22 Gailey Reservoir 135 – – – 10 – – – – – – – Tittesworth 1689232615–2––3 Westport Lake – – – 6 20 23 – 87 119 162 183 216 Whitemoor Haye 4 – – – 3 – – 80 126 217 170 110 Dunstall Park 8 14 14 – 4 – 8 8 12 – 6 8 Fens Pools 138 50 43 27 28 28 48 59 102 104 110 92 Marsh Lane NR 77 51 38 27 34 43 70 105 61 31 34 39 Netherton Reservoir 323426241514254238365150 Sandwell Valley 25 29 33 38 10 30 16 20 20 300 251 20 Stubbers Green 28 29 24 6 7 2 3 7 26 – – 43 WeBS 2007 3077 2728 1627 1403 1073 1842 2599 3473 4705 4803 6625 6061 WeBS 2008 4553 3210 2425 1131 1351 2596 3427 6377 4931 4912 4159 3430

Warks Concentrations of breeding pairs included at least 15 at Brandon, seven broods reared at Napton Res, and 16 nests at Salford Priors GP, but with very few young fledging at the latter site. All three counts were well down on 2007 (cf. 18, 20 and 25 respectively).

79 Four breeding pairs were present on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot, where usually there is just one. A very early brood of five was noted at Brandon on March 30th. Maxima away from tabulated sites included 80 at Brandon on October 9th-11th, 75 at Compton Verney on November 29th and 270 at Alvecote on December 7th. Worcs A reasonably common breeding species on most of the larger water bodies, particularly Upton Warren, where many broods were recorded. Away from the tabulated localities, a pair and three young were observed at Lower Park Farm Pool, Church Pool at Elmley Castle held a pair on May 11th, one was at British Camp Reservoir on July 27th, a pair with fledged young at Kyre Park, 105 at Clifton Pits on August 7th and 14 at Mill Pond, Castlemorton on December 14th. Staffs Another exceptionally high count was noted at Copmere on January 13th building on the high of 2007, but elsewhere in the county numbers seemed to be little changed from those of the previous year. Breeding was confirmed at 23 sites around the county, mainly in small numbers, but with 27 pairs at Doxey and up to 30 pairs at Aqualate. Late summer numbers began to build early at Belvide with 678 noted on June 29th and these rose to 904 on July 20th. Numbers suggest fewer birds were present in the later part of the year although Chasewater recorded a count of 800 on December 14th, this being almost double that of 2007. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 80 birds in 16 transects and seven watercourses: Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central and east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds bred at Berkswell, Blackheath, Blythe Valley, Bumble Hole LNR, Cannon Hill Park, Dudley No.2 Canal, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Footshole, Keresley Mere, Kingswinford, Ladymoor Pool, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton Reservoir, Park Lime Pits, Rattlechain Mere, Reedswood Park, Rocket Pool, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smethwick Hall Park, Steelpark Way, Sutton Park, Titford Pools, Victoria Park (Tipton), Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR and West Smethwick Park. High counts away from tabulated sites included 50 birds at West Smethwick Park on February 3rd, 60 at Sheepwash UP on September 27th, 98 at Edgbaston Reservoir on 28th, 135 at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th and 50 at Rattlechain Mere on November 8th. Birds were also noted at Brueton Park, Cornets End, Goscote, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hydes Road Pool, Ladymoor Pool, Moorcroft Wood, Ocker Hill, Olton Mere, Smestow Valley, Sneyd, Stubbers Green, Tocil Wetlands, Windmill Lakes and Withymoor.

2007 Addendum Warks Shustoke had a maximum of 592 in October.

Common Crane Grus grus Rare vagrant (7/10). Worcs An adult male and two adult females roosted at Longdon Marsh during the late afternoon on April 20th MWCW et al. and showed particularly well the following morning before flying high south/east at midday. Both females were colour ringed above the feet. Probably the same three individuals were observed circling over Hartlebury Common at 12-50 on May 5th IMa and an hour later where circling over Clifton Pits for forty-five minutes before heading high south/east AHo et al.

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

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon –355466––––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 2 2 5 4 3 3 1 – – – – Draycote 1–123312–––1 Ladywalk area 2 2 3 4 4 4 3 1 – – – – Salford Priors GP ––23532––––– Bittell Reservoirs – – – 1 – – – – – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 11324232–––– Clifton ––––––1––––– Grimley 1244442––––– Kinsham Lake –222222–––– Lower Moor – – – 1 1 – – – – – – – Lower Park – – – 2 – – – – – – – – Ryall Pits – – 1 – 2 – – – – – – – Throckmorton ––124454–––– Upton Warren 1445687––––– Aqualate – – – 4 3 2 – – – – – – Barton GP –2–3312–1––– Belvide –4847671–––1 Blake Hall ––223–1––––– Blithfield –31266884–––– Branston GP – 2 4 4 4 6 2 2 1 – – – Chasewater – 1 2 3 3 6 2 1 – – – – Croxall NR 2466447–2––– Doxey Marshes –113221––––– Drayton Bassett –352123––––– Elford GP ––22–2–––––– Gailey Reservoir – – 1 4 3 – – – – – – – JCB North Lake –22–––2––––– Tittesworth –––1–22––––– Uttoxeter Quarry –24667127–––– Whitemoor Haye 4343412––––– Whitmore –––21––2–––– Marsh Lane NR –55768102–––– Ryders Mere 1 2 4 2 2 2 2 2 – – – – Sandwell Valley – 1 4 2 2 3 3 3 – – – –

Warks Single pairs nested at Alvecote, Brandon (two young fledged), Coleshill GP (failed), Ladywalk (two young) and Salford Priors GP (failed). Nesting apparently did not take place in the usual Kingsbury area stronghold. Away from tabulated sites in the north there were up to seven at Haunch Lane Flood during May 21st-31st, with up to three noted during February-July at Coton/Lea Marston, Packington, Shustoke, and in The Somers/ Stonebridge GC area. In the Salford Priors district up to three were noted regularly at Abbots Salford during the season, and one or two also at Marlcliff and Kingley Pool near Wixford. Further afield there were reports of one flying over Farnborough Park on January 16th, one on floodwater at Wasperton on February 10th, and singles at Seeswood Pool on May 9th, Morton Bagot from 14th-21st and at Maxstoke on 17th. Worcs A pair fledged one young at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 30th, while a pair nested at Kinsham Lake but the nest was thought to have been predated and at Throckmorton Lagoons a pair fledged three young. At Grimley two pairs nested but one was flooded out while at Upton Warren one pair hatched two young at the Moors Pool on April 29th but

81 only one was seen from May 3rd, which went on to fledge and second pair abandoned sitting at the Moors Pool during June. Away from the tabulated sites one was at Westwood Pool and three at Holt in June. Staffs Another excellent breeding year, with an improvement on last year’s record breaking figures. This occurred at Barton GP (two pairs, outcome unknown), Belvide (two pairs, produced three young), Blithfield (two pairs, with at least four chicks fledged), Bloreheath (one pair), Branston Gravel Pits (two pairs, breeding probably occurred), Croxall NR (one pair with two chicks, one fledged), Doxey (two pairs, outcome unknown), Gailey Reservoir (one pair with two young), Stableford (one pair, outcome unknown), Tameside NR (three pairs present during breeding season) and Uttoxeter Quarry (two pairs, fledged three young).

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Breeding Pairs (successful) 2(1) 5(3) 2(1) 6(5) 7(5) 9(4) 15(7) 19(8)

Elsewhere one at Berry Hill Fields in April was an unusual site record, and one at Shirleywitch Farm, Ingestre in May was a first for the site. The best counts received away from the tabulated sites were six at Alrewas in March and four at Aqualate in April. W Mid Two pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR (raising just one juvenile) and single pairs bred at Sandwell Valley (for the second successive year, again fledging one offspring) and Ryders Mere (raising one youngster). Other sightings involved two birds at Minworth STW on March 17th, two at Stubbers Green on 30th, one on May 6th and July 31st, and two adults and a juvenile (perhaps the Ryders Mere family) on August 5th, one over Nailcote Farm on May 4th, two at North Warwickshire Golf Course on June 2nd, two at Dunstall Park from July 8th-14th at least and one at Bartley Reservoir on September 6th.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant and very rare breeder (9/10). Warks One was at Draycote on March 15th RCM. Single birds flew south through the Fisher’s Mill area on March 26th SPa and south-east over Whitacre Heath NR on April 2nd RGr, NPT. Possibly the same individual was involved in both records. Worcs The first returning bird was back at Upton Warren on February 27th, with two the following day. Three in early March increased to eight from 23rd, with 11 present on April 24th. Four pairs nested, the first brood of four young hatched from May 13th, with a second brood of three young emerging on the 30th. A third brood of three hatched on June 9th whilst a fourth pair remained incubating what was clearly an unviable clutch. All ten young went on to successfully fledge and Upton Warren’s amazing record of never losing a hatched Avocet chick remains intact – 32 young have now been raised since 2003. Fourteen adult birds were present on several dates in early and mid-July and including unfledged young, the total grand total was 21 birds. By late July birds had started to depart and the final bird was noted on August 14th. The only records away from Upton Warren was of one at Throckmorton Lagoons on June 3rd RAP and one that flew south over Lower Moor on July 7th RAP. Staffs Another good year produced two at Belvide on April 14th KMC, one at the National Memorial Arboretum on May 16th ESC, one at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 17th and another on 19th-20th JOat, MJI and two at Croxall Lakes from 18th-20th SCol. W Mid One bird was brought down by heavy showers and stayed at Marsh Lane NR for 40 minutes on March 26th JHa – the third record for the site.

82 2007 Addendum Worcs Seven were seen at Westwood Pool on March 14th WDu et al.

Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Rare vagrant (3/10). Worcs One discovered at Shenstone on May 5th MWCW et al., was the first in the county since 1996 and was appreciated by a large crowd for the remainder of the day.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 18th (44) to October 3rd (43) 8-year average: March 13th (–5 days) to October 1st (–2 days) First noted on March 10th at Westport Lake; the last at Belvide on the rather early date of September 13th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––132211–––– Charlecote/Wasperton – – 1 5 2 2 1 – – – – – Coleshill GP – – 5 6 2 2 – – – – – – Dosthill/Kingsbury – – – 4 4 3 – – – – – – Draycote – – 1 2 – 1 – – – – – – Ladywalk ––121––––––– Salford Priors GP – – – 10 14 15 11 1 1 – – – Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – 7 – – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – – – 1 – – 1 1 – – – – Bury End Flash –––12–––––––– Clifton Pits –––––––3–––– Grimley ––668––––––– Kinsham Lake –––1–––––––– Longdon Marsh – – – – 2 – 1 7 1 – – – Lower Moor – – 3 4 4 2 – – – – – – Lower Park – – – 1 – – 1 1 – – – – Ripple Pits – – – – – 3 – – – – – – Ryall Pits – – 7 9 16 12 18 16 – – – – Throckmorton – – 1 2 2 – – – – – – – Upton Warren – – 5 8 8 7 9 2 – – – – Barton GP –––5663––––– Belvide – – – 1 2 9 10 10 3 – – – Blithfield – – 2 4 2 5 15 8 1 – – – Branston GP – – – 5 4 2 5 3 – – – – Chasewater – – – 1 2 1 1 – – – – – Croxall NR – – 2 4 – – 6 2 – – – – Croxden Quarry – – 1 4 5 6 1 – – – – – Doxey Marshes – – 3 8 5 4 4 – – – – – Drayton Bassett – – 2 5 2 2 3 1 – – – – Rudyard Lake – – 1 2 2 2 – – – – – – Silverdale Colliery – – 2 4 4 4 3 – – – – – Stanley Pool – – – – – 3 5 3 – – – – Tittesworth – – – 2 3 5 8 – – – – – Uttoxeter Quarry – – 9 18 15 19 12 1 1 – – – Westport Lake ––12123––––– Whitemoor Haye – – 1 2 5 – 1 – – – – – Marsh Lane NR ––27732––––– Sandwell Valley – – 1 2 2 4 6 – – – – –

83 Warks About 20 probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Alvecote (probably failed), Baxterley, Coleshill GP, Coombe Fields (Ansty Park), Dosthill, Frog Hall Landfill, Kingsbury (nest flooded out), Long Itchington Quarry, Purley Quarry (two), Salford Priors GP (seven, at least four broods seen but some chicks were lost to Kestrel predation) and Toft Farm Lakes (three). In addition, a pair was present at Haunch Lane Flood, Lea Marston in April-May and five were there on July 17th, suggesting local breeding. Single pairs present at both Brandon and Charlecote GP apparently made no attempt to breed, while up to three at Morton Bagot (where breeding occurred from 2005- 07) during March 27th-April 27th subsequently deserted the area, presumably due to vegetation growth. There were also spring reports from Abbots Salford, Bedworth Nook and Shustoke. Extreme dates were two at Coleshill GP on March 17th and one at Salford Priors GP on September 7th. Worcs At least three pairs attempted to breed at Upton Warren, but no successful outcomes were noted. Eight pairs were present at Ryall Pits during May with three broods noted on 24th, three chicks on June 15th and four juveniles were present on August 18th. A pair that nested at Lower Moor but were flooded out while another pair at Throckmorton Lagoons were probably predated by Coots. Away from the tabulated sites, a passage juvenile was at Lickmore Wetland on July 11th and an adult was at Gwen Finch on 22nd. Staffs The first arrival was at Westport on March 10th, followed by two at Drayton Bassett Pits on 14th. The last was at Belvide on September 13th. The numbers of breeding pairs rose again, but productivity was poor: at Barton GP (three pairs and at least one juvenile), Berry Hill (one pair present), Branston GP (two pairs, no young), Britannia Stadium (one pair), Byrkley Park (two pairs, no young), Clay Mills (one pair), Croxden Quarry (two-three pairs, no young), Doxey (two pairs, one juvenile), Meaford (two pairs), Rudyard Lake (one pair), Silverdale Colliery (two pairs, no young), Stanley Pool (one pair, two young), Tittesworth (one pair, fledged young) and Uttoxeter Quarry (five+ pairs, several with young), Westport (one pair, one young), Wilnecote Tip (one pair, three young) and Whitemoor Haye (one pair, one young). Elsewhere, a pair displayed at Belvide but didn’t stay, pairs might have bred at Chatterley and Coldmeece and up to four birds at Croxall NR in April were not reported again until July. Additional sightings were a single at Aqualate on April 20th, two at Elford GP June 10th-22nd and two at Coley Brook Marsh on 26th-29th.

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Breeding Pairs 12 8 10 17 18-19 15 22-23 29-30 W Mid One was recorded along the Bourne Brook during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley – two pairs each. Single birds were noted at Sheepwash UP on March 30th, April 16th and July 6th, Ryders Mere on April 10th, Dunstall Park on 12th, 21st, 29th and July 2nd, Cornets End on April 14th, Edgbaston Reservoir on May 4th, Stubbers Green on June 28th and Berkswell on July 14th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – 1 3 6 3 3 3 1 – – – – Coleshill GP – – – 2 4 – – – – – – –

84 JFMAMJJASOND Dosthill/Kingsbury –1–1–––1–––– Draycote –1–11––12–1– Salford Priors GP ––35764169––– Bredon’s Hardwick – – – 1 1 – – 2 – – – – Bury End Flash –––33––––––– Clifton Pits –––24––12––– Grimley –1128––1–––– Holt – – – – 13 – – – – – – – Longdon Marsh – – – – 17 – – – 1 – – – Lower Moor – – – – 9 – – 3 – – – – Ryall Pits – – – – 8 1 – 4 4 – – – Upton Warren –––12–11–––– Throckmorton ––––1––2–––– Barton GP ––––2–3–1––– Belvide –––1531910––– Blithfield – 2 – 2 2 11 5 59 25 – – – Branston GP – 2 2 – 5 5 1 1 1 – – – Chasewater – – – 2 2 – 1 7 5 – – – Croxall NR –2225342–––– Doxey Marshes –––1317––––– Drayton Bassett –2184051691–– Tittesworth –––––15––––– Uttoxeter Quarry –––35––3–––– Whitemoor Haye –942217––––– Marsh Lane NR 14466565––––

Warks Breeding pairs were only reported from Brandon (one, failed) and Salford Priors GP (two, one brood successful). Passage numbers were only reasonable at Salford Priors GP where there was a peak of 16 on August 17th. Elsewhere, a party of eight or nine on a stony field far from water at Crimscote on May 25th-26th was unusual, as was a flock of 16 circling a wheat field at Birchmoor also on 26th, while singles were noted at Ladywalk on May 14th-15th, and flying south-west over Fenny Compton during a period of rain on September 12th. The first spring migrant appeared at Draycote on February 8th, while a late bird was there on November 15th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites one flew over Warndon on May 16th while 35 birds passed through Lower Moor during May and two at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 5th. Staffs A particularly high count on autumn passage occurred at Blithfield on August 22nd when 59 were present. One pair had three young at Branston GP as did another at Croxall NR but probably not all of them fledged. A pair at Barton GP in May might have bred but this was not confirmed. Other records came from Croxden Quarry with three on April 27th, Aqualate on May 24th, Tittesworth on June 20th, Stanley Pool on 30th, five at Tittesworth on July 13th, three at Rudyard Lake on August 14th-16th and nine at Cross - plains on September 6th after heavy rain. W Mid One pair bred at Marsh lane NR, fledging one young; a second pair was present for most of the breeding season, but was not seen to lay any eggs. Single birds were noted in Sandwell Valley on April 28th and May 23rd, with two on 27th and two at Berkswell on August 8th.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (8/10). Worcs A juvenile was present on North Hill on September 11th SAv et al.

85 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 13th (60) to April 28th (62) 8-year average: August 18th (+5 days) to April 27th (–1 day) An early first arrival on August 10th at British Camp and an early last departure at Fenny Compton on April 19th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Birchmoor 290 230 600 480 – – – – 70 400 450 400 Charlecote-Wasperton- Wellesbourne 800 330 29 – – – – – – – – – Chesterton – 70 39 – – – – – – 100 270 2200 Crimscote – 200 350 250 – – – – – – – – Draycote-Grandborough 1 78 203 10 – – – 1 11 100 100 150 Fenny Compton-Priors Hardwick-Wormleighton 600 200 300 47 – – – – 10 70 126 70 Studley 100 200 200 – – – – – – 12 200 26 Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – – 19 Bredon Hill – – – – – – – – 28 – – 56 Crowle – – 120 – – – – – – – 20 265 Gwen Finch Wetland 33 – – – – – – – – – – – Little Comberton 260 5 – – – – – – – 12 – 2 Lower Moor 2100 550 67 210 – – – – – 350 1,200 60 Lower Park – – – – – – – – – 14 42 336 Sheriffs Lench – – – – – – – – 13 48 50 – Throckmorton – – – 60 – – – – 1 – – 200 Upton Warren 7––––––––––– Belvide 220 12 17 48 – – – 1 16 479 420 6 Berry Hill ––1––––1622025075 Blithfield – – – – – – – – 1 20 6 – Branston GP 300 500 200 – – – – – 1 2 40 – Butterton – – 570 500 – – – – – – 60 – Coldmeece – – – – – – – – – – 730 130 Cotes Heath 650 – – – – – – – – – – 500 Crossplains 30 16 200 45 – – – 2 – 1 400 450 Flash ––41207–2––––– Hixon Airfield – 115 278 – – – – – – – – 78 Keele University 40 229 450 470 4 – – – – – 200 40 Park Hall CP 300 100 – – – – – – – 57 520 360 Pethillshead – – – – – – – – – – 180 5 Radford 83 – – – – – – – – – 80 – R. Sow Meadows – – – – – – – – – 120 – 350 Silverdale Colliery 18 – 100 – – – – – – 220 250 83 Whitemoor Haye 200 30 – 3 – – – – – – 26 60 Blythe Valley – – 100 25 – – – – 45 – – 60 Box Trees/Hockley Heath 170 – – – – – – – 14 470 400 900 Marsh Lane NR – 1 3 2 – – – 10 54 150 600 200 Minworth – – – 1200 – – – – – – – 1500

Warks Wintering flocks were slightly up from last year, and flocks of 100 or fewer were reported widely. Away from tabulated sites larger counts during the first quarter included a maximum of 300 at Wishaw on January 8th, 750 circling over Furnace End on 9th, 170 at Packwood on 27th, and a peak of just 100 in the Kingsbury area in March. Birds were present at several sites until mid-April, with the last of 47 at Fenny Compton on 19th. The first autumn migrants were noted at Grandborough on August 26th and Salford Priors GP

86 on 31st, but the main passage did not commence until late September. Some of the larger autumn counts included 150 at Brandon on October 21st, 100 at Lower Shuckburgh on November 15th and 250 at Willoughby on 20th, before much larger numbers arrived in December including 700 at Snitterfield on 8th, 850 at Salford Priors GP on 21st and the year’s highest count, of 2200 assembling at Chesterton in the late afternoon of December 18th. Worcs 60 at Fladbury on January 6th, 30 at Ryall on 20th, four at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 5th, six at Wick on March 10th, one over British Camp on August 10th, 13 over Church Lench and 25 over Clifton Pits on September 28th, one over Longdon Marsh on 29th, 19 at Honeybourne on October 5th, 200 near Strensham on 18th, 520 at Wick on 22nd, 231 at Ryall on 26th, 250 flew over Stoulton on 29th and one at Croome Park on December 11th and singles over Clifton Pits and Longdon Marsh on 26th. Staffs There was no displaying or breeding confirmed but one or two pairs might have bred in the north of the county. In the first winter period, records were submitted from an additional 21 untabulated sites, the higher counts in late January being 230 at Sandyford, 300 at Seighford Fields and 200 at Swynnerton Landfill. In March there were 220 at Catholme on 1st, 125 at Chasewater on 8th and 200 at Four Ashes on 14th. Visible migration was noted between September 24th and October 25th with just 184 birds heading south over Black Bank and Ingestre – passage must typically take place at night. In the second winter period, records from 11 untabulated sites included 450 over Acton Trussell on November 24th , 400 at Hanbury Park on 26th and 470 at Stoke – Sideway on December 25th. W Mid The peak counts of 1200 birds near Minworth came on April 3rd and 1500 on December 26th, with 600 plus at Marsh Lane NR on November 29th and 900 at Box Trees on December 7th. Other records involved 32 birds over Clayhanger on January 4th and about 300 on 22nd, 44 in Lutley Wedge on February 1st, about 80 in fields alongside the Rushall Canal on April 13th, 355 at Mercote Mill Farm on November 1st and over 600 on 29th, 16 over Smestow Valley on November 1st and five over Dunstall Park on December 16th.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Singles were seen in spring at Salford Priors GP on May 18th and Draycote on 24th. Both these sites had birds on return passage, with singles at Salford Priors GP on September 14th and November 23rd, and Draycote on October 1st and November 23rd. Worcs Singles were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 20th SBl et al., and flying south over Lower Moor on September 14th RAP. Staffs Somewhat unusually, the first of the year were in January, a small influx on the 6th bringing a single which flew through at Blithfield, and three at Belvide. A good spring passage, beginning with one at Branston Gravel Pits on April 21st, followed in May with singles at Whitemoor Haye on 4th, Drayton Bassett Pits on 7th, Uttoxeter Quarry on 14th, with another on 17th-18th, Belvide on 17th and Whitemoor Haye also on 17th. In June a summer-plumaged bird flew east at Belvide on 4th, and Uttoxeter Quarry hosted a single on 21st. Just two autumn singles, both in September at Blithfield on 3rd and 28th. W Mid Single birds were noted at Marsh Lane on April 20th DJS (the fourth record for the site) and Sandwell Valley on November 17th per RSPB.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 200 416 111 23 26 100 410 700 950 535 212 263 Charlecote/Wasperton 650 450 95 12 12 2 – – 2 50 93 250 Dosthill/Kingsbury 81 – – 10 8 12 120 200 680 35 80 35 Draycote 300 146 – – – 12 55 36 35 31 90 350 Fenny Compton-Priors- Hardwick 350 580 10 8 8 – – – 180 1 25 32 Salford Priors GP 20 45 165 40 55 235 1250 1700 300 66 9 300 Bittell Reservoirs – – 3 2 – 2 100 – – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 112 – 39 – 12 1 – 328 – 43 – Grimley ––4323––159128–––– Gwen Finch Wetland 43 – 2 6 7 50 136 89 63 70 7 – Holt 404 – – – – 85 – 124 – – 118 100 Kinsham Lake 59 200 4 10 16 30 150 149 180 80 3 – Little Comberton 570 – – – – 3 – – – – – – Lower Moor 2000 550 4 4 3 20 – – – – – – Lower Park – – – – – 31 64 168 285 300 340 179 Ryall Pits – – – – – – 120 – – – – – Throckmorton – – – – – – 70 80 – – – – Upton Warren 1000 1700 200 16 11 5 130 172 231 400 330 470 Alrewas 200 350 17 4 17 77 – 150 100 – 250 – Aqualate 300 1 1 1 – – – – 60 – – 2 Aston by Stone – 60 – – – – – – – – – 200 Barton GP – 100 300 5 18 4 195 – 800 – 38 200 Belvide 2000 – 12 5 – 260 503 848 810 1150 838 325 Berry Hill 120– 2 2 527313838852960 Blithfield 80 150 65 2 – 23 250 450 94 2 14 – Burston –––––––––100120200 Caltonmoor – – – – – – – – – 93 – 10 Chasewater 181 105 40 20 6 9 92 70 – 96 250 236 Coldmeece Pools 166 33 13 – – – – 200 – – 350 600 Cotes Heath 250 – 4 – 8 – – – – – – – Croxall NR 400 19 5 15 12 30 53 131 350 85 160 170 Doxey Marshes 287 709 60 16 23 41 155 271 306 85 422 781 Drayton Bassett 100 124 20 5 4 61 100 170 95 – 79 230 Elford GP 90 – 30 12 2 5 – – – – – 120 Ellenhall 127 90 – – – – – – – – – – Enson 120 210 – – – – – – – – – 54 Flash – – 36 – 28 – 60 – – – – – Halfpenny Green 50 20 2 – – – – – – – – – Hixon Airfield – – 15 – – – – – – 250 217 110 Keele University – 100 31 7 8 – – – – – 40 – Lower Hatton – 350 13 – 10 – 3 – – – – – Pethillshead – – – – – – – – – 200 200 113 Radford 300 200 – – 2 – – – – 70 – – River Dove, Fauld1150––––––––––– River Sow Meadows 118 40 12 – 11 – – 200 240 405 – 97 Rudyard Lake 3 – – – – – 120 39 57 – 150 – Silverdale Colliery 60 35 21 10 8 8 42 20 31 38 63 76 Stableford 183 125 21 16 18 50 99 – – 234 80 25 Tittesworth 83 44 11 2 16 40 81 100 70 21 37 – Uttoxeter Quarry 650 130 122 20 28 98 330 500 450 250 150 300 Westport Lake 200 200 1 – – – – – – 8 – – Whitemoor Haye – 500 16 2 12 70 75 – 12 – – 432 Whitmore 205 85 53 16 6 70 100 130 130 140 – 120 Blythe Valley 85 – 70 36 – – – – – 2 46 300

88 JFMAMJ JASOND Dunstall Park 84 1 4 2 4 60 176 140 155 27 60 1 Marsh Lane NR 590 350 173 40 50 154 160 383 465 200 452 517 Ryders Mere 22 51 – – – – – – – – – – Sandwell Valley 48 70 40 16 9 14 70 100 114 100 40 30 Stubbers Green 275 80 12 2 2 19 104 116 143 16 131 142 Warks A total of 132 probable breeding pairs located at 43 sites, was marginally up on 2007 although success was often very poor. Pairs were found at: Abbots Salford (six), Alvecote (four), Beausale, Birchmoor, Bramcote Hall (two), Brandon (ten, but only three produced a total of seven chicks due to egg predation and just three fledged), Burton Dassett (two), Calcutt, Caldecote, Charlecote-Wasperton (six), Chessetts Wood (two), Chesterton (three), Coleshill GP (two), Crimscote (five), , DMC Kineton (seven), Dosthill-Kingsbury (four, but nests flooded out), Dunnington Court (three), Dunton, Farnborough (two), Fenny Compton, Frog Hall Landfill (eight), Grandborough, Hunningham, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Quarry, Little Packington (nine), Long Itchington, Moreton Morrell (two), Morton Bagot (five), Napton Fields, Newbold-on-Stour (four), Polesworth, Priors Hardwick (three), Salford Priors GP (20), Seeswood, Toft Farm Lakes (three), Upper Kingston (two), Whitacre Heath, Wolvey and Wootton Wawen. The Birchmoor pair was thought to have been the first to breed there in over 40 years, but as with many breeding attempts the young were predated. Apart from an excellent post- breeding gathering at Salford Priors GP, flock size was generally on the low side. In the first quarter away from tabulated sites, there were counts of 850 at Wellesbourne Airfield on January 11th and 300 at Chesterton on February 25th; while flocks of around 100-170 were also reported from Abbots Salford, Barford, DMC Kineton, Lower Shuckburgh, Sherbourne, Shustoke, Studley and Wilmcote. Post breeding flocks were more numerous and included maxima of 200 near Sawbridge on June 29th, 250 at Grandborough on July 10th, 147 at Warmington on 18th, 300 at Alcester on August 21st, 119 at Alvecote on 24th, 200 at Abbots Salford on September 10th, 536 by the R.Avon at Bidford on November 7th, 300 at Snitterfield on December 8th, 210 at Ladywalk on 14th and 380 at Grandborough on 28th. Worcs Five pairs nested at Grimley fledged 11 young, six pairs nested at Kinsham Lake but were all predated by corvids and gulls, six pairs nested at Ryall Pits, displaying was noted at Larford and Sedgeberrow, while three pairs nested with some success at Throckmorton. Up to eight pairs were present at Upton Warren during the spring but only two young appeared to have fledged and a pair was noted at Upper Ham, Upton-upon Severn. A leucistic juvenile was present at Gwen Finch Wetland from July 25th to August 11th. Away from the tabulated sites, records comprised 196 at Wick on January 7th, 500 at Podmoor on February 3rd, 150 at Clifton Pits on 6th, 200 at on 24th, 12 at on March 24th, 50 at Birlingham on September 14th, 400 at Wick on December 16th and 75 at Clifton Pits on 26th. Staffs Survey data from the BTO Atlas work has boosted breeding numbers to the highest for many years, and an estimate of 400 territories is probably as close to the county population we are likely to get. Without the Atlas survey, territories were much the same as 2007, so this table does not indicate an increase in breeding pairs, but far better county coverage during a time when most of the regularly watched sites are showing a decline in numbers.

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Breeding Pairs 350-354 284-302 284-302 280-297 346-357 377-398

89 Acton 4 pairs Eland Brook 5 pairs ploughed out Essington Quarry Pool 1 pair Agardsley Park 4 pairs with Fair Lady Coppice 4 pairs young Fauld Cottage Farm 5 pairs, one Alrewas 2 pairs with young Apedale CP 9 pairs, some Flash 14 pairs fledged with chicks 20 young Aqualate 1 pair Foker Grange 1 pair Bagot’s Bromley 1 pair Fole 3 pairs Baldwins Gate 1 pair Forton 1 pair Barton GP 5 pairs Fradley 1 pair, two young Bateswood CP 1 pair Fradswell Heath 1 pair Bearstone 2 pairs Gayton 5 pairs displayed Beech 9-10 pairs Goldsitch Moss 5 pairs on territory Berry Hill 2 pairs Great Haywood 1 pair unsuccessful Gun Hill 1 pair Bignall End 3 pairs Hales 1 pair Blithfield c.3 pairs all Halfpenny Green 1 pair lfailed Hall Moor 1 pair Bloreheath 5 pairs Hanchurch Pools 1 pair displaying Hanchurch Woods 1 pair in nearby Boarsgrove 1 pair crop field Bradnop 1 pair Harlaston 2-3 pairs Brindley Ford 1 pair Hartley Green 2-3 pairs Britannia Stadium 8 pairs, at Hazel Barrow 3 pairs least two Heaton 2 pair fledged young High Cross 1 pair Brook House Farm 2-3 pairs with Highwood 2-3 pairs young Hollinsclough 1 pair Broom Hill 6-9 pairs Hulme End 1 pair with 8 chicks Ingestre 4 pairs all failed Brown Lees 8 pairs all Iverley 1 pair failed Jugbank 1 pair Butterton (Newcastle) 10 pairs Keele (Yew Tree Farm) 7 pairs, 4 young Butterton Moor 3 pairs Keele University 4-5 pairs Byrkley Park 2 pairs raised King’s Standing 2 pairs 4 young Knotbury 14 pairs reared Cauldon Low 1 pair five young Chasewater 3 pairs Langley Hall Farm 1 pair Chillington Lower Ave 2 pairs Lask Edge 3 pairs Clay Mill 1 pair Lazy Hill 1 pair Coldmeece 4-6 pairs Little Onn 2 pairs Coombesdale 1 pair with Loggerheads 1-2 pairs young Longsdon Mill Pond 2-3 pairs Cotes Heath 5 pairs Lordsley GP 5 pairs Cotton’s Wood 1 pair Lower Hatton 5 pairs Crakemarsh Lake 1 pair Maer Hills 2 pairs Cresswell 1 pair Meerbrook 7 pairs raised one Crossplains 9 pairs, all or two young failed Merril Grove 2 pairs raised Croxall NR 7-8 pairs, one young several young Millmeece 1 pair Croxden 1 pair Moat Hall 1 pair Cuckoo Bank 2 pairs Moneystone 1 pair Curborough House 1 pair Morridge Side 1+ pair with young Derrington 1 pair Mow Cop 1 pair Dove Bridge 1 pair National Memorial Doxey 6 pairs attempted, Arboretum 1+ pairs one with young. Needwood 1 pair Drayton Bassett Pits 1 pair Norton Canes 1 pair Dunstall Hall Farm 3 pairs Onecote Grange Farm 5 pairs all failed

90 R. Hamps, Onecote 4 pairs Tixall Bridge 3 pairs Radford Meadows 1 pair Trent Valley, E. Bishton 1 pair River Sow Meadows 6 pairs, no Tutbury 2 pairs evidence of young Upper Hatton 2 pairs Rolleston/Stockley Park 13 pairs Upper Landywood 1 pair Royal Cottage 2-3 pairs Upper Nobut 1 pair Shirleywitch 2-3 pairs Uttoxeter Quarry 4 pairs fledged with young six young Silverdale Colliery 8 pairs, fledged Bridge 3 pairs 2+ young Whitemoor Haye 2-3 pairs, with Slindon 3-4 pairs six young with young Whitmore area 11 pairs, one Stableford 11-12 pairs, a few chick seen young fledged Windy Harbour 1 pair Stubwood 2 pairs Winkhill 2 pairs Swallow Moss 1 pair Winnington 1 pair Tameside NR 5 pairs Woodhead 1 pair The Clive Farm 2 pairs

Larger counts from untabulated sites in January included 300 at Draycott-in-the-Clay, 500 at Edingale, 400 at Seighford Fields, 190 at Trescott and 300 at Walton Bridge; in February 186 at Cowley, 220 at Ellastone, 200 at Gains Brook and 150 at Gayton; in July 200 at Kingsley Moor; in November 150 at Rushton Spencer and 200 at Tamworth; in December 240 at Water Eaton. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded just five birds in three transects, all along the River Tame (west). Birds bred at Aldridge (one pair), Benton Green (three pairs), Berkswell (seven pairs), Blythe Valley, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least nine pairs, but only one chick certainly fledged), Sandwell Valley (at least eight chicks) and Wall Hill (one pair), and may have done at Bowmans Harbour (two pairs). Up to four birds were also noted at or flying over the Grand Union Canal, Lutley Wedge and Reedswood Park during May. The maximum count of 517 at Marsh Lane NR was noted on December 20th. Other high counts included 230 at Mercote Mill Farm on February 2nd and 126 on November 1st, 95 at Hockley Heath on October 5th and 65 at Berkswell on November 3rd. Less than 50 birds were occasionally seen at Cornets End, Edgbaston Reservoir, Minworth STW, Sheepwash UP and Westwood Heath.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks Singles were noted at Draycote on May 26th, August 23rd and September 1st. One appeared at Brandon during heavy rain on October 28th. Worcs Singles at Clifton Pits on May 4th and August 16th were the only records. Staffs Another good year with 27-28 birds, compared to a very similar total of 26-27 in 2007. The first was an early spring record on March 1st at Chasewater, followed by one in non-breeding plumage at Blithfield on 20th. May records were the sole preserve of Drayton Bassett Pits, with one on 8th-10th, and six on 25th which rounded off the spring passage. Again, as in 2007, autumn passage was better, commencing with a summer- plumaged bird at Blithfield on August 8th-10th, two on 13th increasing to five by the 15th, with all five staying to 19th, one 24th-26th, which coincided with a juvenile at Chasewater also from 24th-26th, with another on 30th, and September 3rd-4th. A juvenile visited Belvide on August 16th. Further September records were juveniles at Blithfield on 5th and Belvide on 5th-6th, then singles at Whitemoor Haye on 7th and finally Blithfield on 13th.

91 W Mid One bird visited Marsh Lane NR on May 18th – the fourth record for the reserve, but the first since 2003 DJS.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Warks A light spring passage was mainly confined to Draycote, with two on April 13th, singles on 27th and May 12th, and two on 26th. The last bird was noted at Salford Priors GP on June 1st. Draycote again dominated the return passage, with one on July 20th, three on August 19th and two on September 1st. Singles were also seen at Coleshill GP on August 8th and Shustoke on 30th, while a late bird appeared at Draycote on November 18th. Worcs One at Grimley on May 16th was followed by two at Ryall Pits on 17th, two at Upton Warren on 25th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 28th and one at Upton Warren on June 2nd. Staffs Although down on last year’s total of 48-55, this species had another good showing with a minimum of 32 birds in 2008. There was a rare winter record from Whitemoor Haye on February 5th SCol representing the first February record anywhere in the WMBC region since 1976. The first of the spring was at Uttoxeter Quarry on April 7th, followed by Drayton Bassett Pits on 17th and 25th-26th with another at Uttoxeter Quarry on 27th. In May there were two at Whitemoor Haye on 4th, Blithfield held two on 5th, then a run of records from Drayton Bassett Pits with one on 7th, one or two birds present 13th- 16th, eight on 17th and two from 23rd-26th. Allowing for turnover, at least 15 birds may have been present here during this period. Belvide recorded its only bird of spring on May 23rd, with the final record of the period coming from Chasewater on 29th. First returning birds were at Blithfield, with three on July 17th, closely followed by singles at Uttoxeter Quarry on 20th, Drayton Bassett Pits on 20th-21st, and Chasewater on 21st. In August the lion’s share of records came from Blithfield with one on 7th, two on 8th with one remaining to 9th and five on 29th. The only other birds were at Croxall NR on 10th and an interesting record of a colour-ringed bird at Belvide on August 19th. Subsequent investigations found that this bird was ringed at Asenko Village, in Ghana. (A bird ringed at the same place was also seen at Blithfield in May 2009). W Mid Single birds visited Marsh Lane NR on April 27th DJS and August 28th (only the second autumn record for the site) per NPB.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring and winter. Warks The only report was of an adult at Draycote on July 20th. Worcs Single adults were noted at Lower Moor on May 16th, Grimley on July 20th and 21st and Bittell Reservoirs on 24th and 25th. Juveniles then began to appear during September with singles at Ryall Pits from 18th to 20th and Upton Warren on the 20th which was joined by a second individual on 22nd, with both remaining until 27th. Staffs Just one record during spring passage was at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 14th- 15th. The first autumn bird was at Blithfield from August 17th-21st, when it was joined by a second bird on the latter date. Drayton Bassett Pits then became the favoured locality, with one on 31st, one September 17th, two juveniles on September 20th-21st, a juvenile on 23rd and two juveniles on 25th probably all involving the same birds, and another juvenile on 29th coinciding with one at Croxall NR. Finally, a juvenile was at Belvide on October 13th.

92 Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring (X/10). Warks An adult was present at Salford Priors GP during the early morning of August 10th JJB. The last county record was of an adult at the same place on August 6th 2006 – could it have been the same returning individual? Worcs Two adults were at Lower Moor on May 17th RAP et al. Staffs Two were present at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 21st-22nd TPer, JOat and another lingered at Belvide from September 15th-19th SNut. 2007 Addendum Staffs One was present at Doxey Marshes from April 30th until May 2nd CHaw. Worcs An adult at Grimley on May 14th was the third locality record OWa, BRS et al. Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Worcs Two juveniles were at Lower Moor on September 19th RAP et al. Staffs Another poor year with, for the second year running, with just one bird recorded. This was an adult at Belvide from June 6th-8th SNu. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring. Warks A red adult at Salford Priors GP on August 10th was the first record there. Later juveniles were seen at Shustoke on September 15th and circling Dosthill Lake on November 7th, before heading into Staffs. Worcs A winter-plumaged bird was a surprise at Upton Warren from April 20th to 22nd. Staffs There was a meagre total of just five birds this year, commencing with a summer-plumaged bird at Drayton Bassett Pits on July 23rd, closely followed by two adults at Blithfield on 25th, and one on September 14th. Autumn passage concluded with a late bird at Drayton Bassett Pits on November 7th. Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Rare passage migrant (2/10) Staffs A first-winter bird put in a welcome appearance at Belvide on November 2nd SNut. Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – – 1 5 3 – – 5 – 1 – – Dosthill/Kingsbury – – – 2 – – – – 1 1 1 – Draycote ––442–258119– Salford Priors GP –––14125212– Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – 2 – – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 5 – – 2 – 1 3 5 – – – Bury End Flash – – – 2 4 – – – – – – – Clifton ––––2––11––– Grimley –––84––2–221 Gwen Finch Wetland – – 1 – – – – – – – – – Holt – – – – – – – – – – 1 – Kinsham Lake –––1––––––––

93 JFMAMJ JASOND Longdon Marsh – – – – 3 – – 2 1 – – – Lower Moor – – – 2 4 – – – – – 1 – Lower Park – – – – – – – 1 – – – – Ryall Pits – – 2 24 7 1 1 2 2 – – – Throckmorton ––––4–2–––1– Upton Warren –––42123231– Westwood Pool ––1––––––––– Belvide – – 2 7 10 1 27 5 2 2 10 1 Berry Hill –––––––13––– Blithfield 1 1 4 20 10 3 18 35 20 1 1 – Branston GP –2–2––31–––– Chasewater – – 1 1 3 – 2 3 6 – – – Croxall NR 1 1 – – 1 – 1 3 15 – 1 – Doxey Marshes ––113––––22– Drayton Bassett – – 3 6 11 3 3 3 4 3 – – Silverdale Colliery – 10 – – – – 1 – – 2 – – Tittesworth –––21122–––– Uttoxeter Quarry –––71–31–11– Whitemoor Haye ––3410–1––––– Marsh Lane NR ––3981113–21 Sandwell Valley – – – 5 3 1 – – 3 – 1 – Warks Easily the largest party recorded during the year was one of 19 which flew north- west at Draycote on November 2nd. Away from tabulated sites other records included: three on farmland at Priors Hardwick on January 20th, two at Morton Bagot on April 20th with one on May 17th, singles at Abbots Salford on April 20th and Ladywalk on 28th-29th, and one with Ringed Plovers in a stony field at Crimscote on May 25th. Return passage involved singles at Shustoke on August 1st and November 2nd; Abbots Salford on August 31st and October 12th; and at Toft Farm Lakes on September 23rd, Charlecote GP on October 4th and Lighthorne Quarry on 19th. Worcs Significant counts are tabulated above. Staffs The largest count of 35 birds was obtained at Blithfield on August 10th and 13th. Untabulated records came from Coley Book Marsh on April 20th, Chatterley on 21st, Croxden Quarry on 25th-27th and also May 4th, Stoke – Acreswood Fields held two on May 9th, Rudyard Lake on August 14th-16th, two at Crossplains on September 6th, Westport Lake on October 28th, 18 over Sherbrook Valley on November 8th and two at Fisherwick on December 7th. W Mid Single birds visited Edgbaston Reservoir on March 9th and Dunstall Park on July 27th.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax Frequent passage migrant, though in variable numbers. Scarce in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide –––––––114–– Blithfield ––––––323––– Branston GP 2335–––––––– Drayton Bassett ––––1––12––– Whitemoor Haye 2 3 – – – – – 2 1 – – –

Warks A very poor year with the total of just seven birds being the lowest annual total since 1953! The decline in recent years can be partly linked to the loss of suitable local habitat for this species, but the huge recent decline in breeding numbers on the continent

94 must also be partly to blame. There were just three spring singles, of birds at Draycote on April 29th, Ladywalk on May 5th and Brandon on 18th. On return passage singles were seen at Draycote on August 5th and Salford Priors GP on 31st, with two at Kingsbury on September 20th. Worcs Two at Longdon Marsh on May 26th and singles at Upton Warren on August 17th and September 1st to 13th, at Holt on 11th, two at Ryall Pits on 20th, Callow End and Upton-upon-Severn on 21st and Holt from October 2nd to 8th. Staffs Untabulated records came from Croxall NR on July 20th, Chasewater on August 30th and two at Alrewas on September 15th. W Mid Single birds visited Marsh Lane NR from May 13th-16th and July 21st, with two on August 20th and one on September 20th, and one in Sandwell Valley on September 5th.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average:September 25th (67) to April 21st (63) 8-year average: September 14th (–11 days) to April 20th (–1 day) An early first arrival on September 6th at Berry Hill with the last on April 23rd at Ladywalk. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 21–––––––––1 Brandon –1–––––––11– Fisher’s Mill Meadow–––––––––22– Lighthorne Quarry 5 4 5 – – – – – – 1 8 6 Priors Hardwick 1 1 1 – – – – – – 2 – – Salford Priors GP 4 2 1 – – – – – 2 2 10 7 Wasperton 141––––––––– Ashmoor Common 1 2 1 – – – – – – – – 8 Castlemorton Com. 5 3 4 1 – – – – – – 5 1 Clifton Pits 10 – – – – – – – – – 10 6 Grimley 3541–––––236 Gwen Finch Wetland – 1 1 – – – – – – – – – Kinsham Lake 16 4 11 – – – – – 1 2 6 4 Ryall Pits 7 – – – – – – – 3 4 2 – Upton Warren 2692–––––336 Wilden 1 2 – 3 – – – – – – – – Belvide –––––––––11– Berry Hill ––1–––––1111 Blithfield – – 1 – – – – – – – – – Caverswall Cricket Club 4 4 – – – – – – – – – 3 Chasewater 5 – 1 – – – – – – 5 – 3 Clay Mills STW – – – – – – – – – – 2 – Croxall NR 12––––––1–1– Cuckoo Bank 84––––––––3– Doxey Marshes – 1 7 1 – – – – 3 6 – 1 Tittesworth –11––––––1–– Uttoxeter Quarry – – – – – – – – – 1 – 1 Goscote Valley 2 1 – – – – – – – – – 1 Marsh Lane NR 11–1–––––141 Sandwell Valley 1 1 3 3 – – – – – – 1 – Warks Away from tabulated sites singles were also found at Draycote on January 3rd, Morton Bagot on 6th, Coombe Abbey on 13th, in a marsh near Wootton Wawen STW on February 10th and at Wolvey on 22nd. The last spring reports were of one in Napton Hill Quarry on April 19th and two at Ladywalk on 23rd. The first autumn bird was seen at

95 Flecknoe on September 25th and two were at Salford Priors GP on 28th. Two were feeding in front of the hide at Coton on November 9th and one was flushed there on 21st, while up to seven present at Toft Farm Lakes during December was a good number. Further singles were seen at Draycote on December 12th and along the R. Anker at Hartshill on 30th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, one was noted at Holt on January 22nd, two at Abberton on March 24th, one at Longdon Marsh on November 4th, one at Abberton on 23rd, two at Holt on December 23rd and one still there on 29th. Staffs Fewer records received this year, particularly from the regular haunts, probably due to observer effort rather than a genuine decrease in numbers of this secretive species. The September record from Berry Hill Fields on 6th occurred during a spell of heavy showers and north-easterly winds, which brought a small influx of other migrants on site. It was the earliest to return in the county since one at Doxey Marshes on September 4th 2004. Untabulated records, in January, came from Eland Brook and Waterfall Low; February from Bateswood CP and Hanchurch Woods; March, from Black Bank and Ingestre; April from Bateswood CP; October from Hill Ridware; November from Rolleston Park and Seighford Moor and in December from Compact Products Pool, near Cheadle. W Mid Away from tabulated sites, single birds were noted at Hampton in Arden on February 3rd, Clayhanger Marsh on 22nd and Ryders Mere on December 30th. 2007 Addendum W Mid One was flushed from former brickworks in Great Heath on November 1st. 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 40 38 29 29 1 1 3 19 62 66 67 19 Kingsbury 7 18 7 2 1 – 1 6 10 20 11 10 Ladywalk 12 20 9 5 – – 5 24 9 10 32 10 Lighthorne Quarry 15 21 17 5 1 – – – – 5 35 21 Morton Bagot 7070147 – – –181212–100 Priors Hardwick 25 20 5 1 – – – – 15 11 12 25 Salford Priors GP 50 35 18 3 1 – 1 21 100 120 38 25 Wasperton 56 59 57 3 – – – – 16 – – – Abberton ––11––––––2818– Ashmoor Common67–6––––––––8 Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – – – – – – 1 Bredon’s Hardwick 4 – – – – – – – – – – – Birlingham – – – – – – – – 41 – – 18 Castlemorton Com. 20 7 11 – – – – – – 4 17 10 Clifton Pits – – – – – – – – 10 – 10 20 Dagnell End Meadow – 1 5 – – – – – 1 – – – Gwen Finch Wetland 40 30 25 3 – 1 1 5 45 10 10 22 Holt Heath 29 – – – – – – – – – – 13 Kinsham Lake 42 40 7 1 – – – – 3 6 46 45 Longdon Marsh – – – – – – – – 150 75 120 20 Lower Moor – – – 2 – – – – 15 – 36 – Lower Park – – – – – – – 6 6 6 – – Ryall Pits 33 – – – – 1 1 20 70 30 – 12 Throckmorton – 18 – – – – – – 13 29 – – Upton Warren 68 87 50 14 4 1 3 7 36 50 60 46 Westwood Pool ––2––––––––– Wilden 44 – – 6 – – – – – – – –

96 JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 46 20 18 15 – – 1 4 8 64 65 33 Berry Hill 8861–––147–14 Black Bank/Silverdale 36 45 61 2 – – – – 16 48 42 43 Blithfield 8 – 10 13 – – 8 7 2 6 15 5 Branston GP – – 6 15 – – – – 1 – – – Burston –––––––––116– Caverswall Cricket Club 37 17 – – – – – – 7 24 – 11 Chasewater 36 5 5 1 1 – – 1 3 33 11 42 Clay Mills STW – – – – – – – – – – 100 – Croxall NR 1 3 1 – – – – – 15 6 30 – Cuckoo Bank 17 10 5 1 – – – 1 1 6 4 12 Doxey Marshes 37 100 278 22 2 4 10 14 519 260 50 88 Drayton Bassett 5 3 5 – – – 3 6 15 3 5 1 Eland Brook 6 9 15 – – – – – – – – 1 Enson 432–––––––––3 Gun Hill –6–––––––13–– Hanchurch Woods 25 33 9 – – – – – 1 – – – Ingestre – – 16 – – – – – – 10 – – Keele University 7 – 28 3 – – – – – – – – Lower Hatton – 13 16 – – – – – – – – – River Sow Meadows 7 58 22 4 – – – – 2 3 6 83 Seighford Moor – – – – – – – – – – 38 70 Stableford 25 9 – – – – – – – 15 9 3 Tittesworth 33 32 28 2 1 – – 9 16 9 15 10 Uttoxeter Quarry 32 2 – 9 – – – – 10 30 40 40 Dunstall Park 56 45 25 6 1 – – – 8 35 36 39 Goscote Valley 7 6 6 – – – – – – 2 1 1 Marsh Lane NR 8 5 3 4 – 1 – 9 32 42 65 26 Sandwell Valley 2 5 18 30 1 – 2 2 17 30 1 – Warks A pair was found on territory in a wet meadow at Packington, a former breeding site, on April 1st but unfortunately it was not followed up. Wintering and passage totals were generally good, although Kingsbury apparently had a poor year. Away from the tabulated sites, maxima included 20 at Toft Farm Lakes during January-February, 16 near Wootton Wawen STW on February 10th, 36 at Knightcote on 14th, 18 at Fenny Compton on 18th, 15 at Whitacre Heath NR on 24th; and in the autumn, 17 at Draycote on September 14th, 16 at Birchley Heath on November 2nd, 26 at Radway on December 7th, 14 in a marsh at Charlecote on 15th, and 37 at Alvecote on 24th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, eleven were noted at on December 29th. Staffs Flooding in the winter months prevented complete surveys at Doxey. Much as last year, 12 birds were noted drumming/chipping/on territory on the North Staffs Moors, at nine sites. Four pairs attempted at Doxey but again, as last year, no young were seen. Widespread reports were received from many untabulated sites during the winter periods but the only double-figure counts were 12 at Handsacre Flash on January 14th, 15 at Gailey on February 2nd, 10 at Longsdon Mill Pond on 24th, 25 at Knutton on March 16th, 12 at Apedale CP on December 17th and 20 at Gailey on 29th. W Mid A bird was recorded at Radleys and Sheldon during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. The bird at Marsh Lane NR in June was recorded from 10th-22nd. High counts at Clayhanger included nine birds on February 20th and 12 on September 7th. Other sightings involved three birds at Blythe Valley CP on January 16th, singles in Coundon Wedge on February 16th, March 15th and December 20th, Stubbers Green on February 18th, Saltwells LNR on March 7th and Rattlechain Mere on 15th and November 8th, and three at Box Trees Airfield on October 5th.

97 Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks Up to three were roding at Bentley Park Wood during May-June, with one roding at a site in the Princethorpe area during the same period. Outside the breeding season one or two birds were noted at 32 sites which is near average for recent years. Three at Brandon on January 24th was the best count during the first quarter, but numbers were higher towards the end of the year, with maxima of five at Brandon on November 28th, five at Wormleighton Res on December 12th and five at Ladywalk on 16th. Extreme dates of winter visitors were March 24th at Bowshot Wood and November 1st at Brandon. Worcs During the breeding season, roding males were noted at Wood and Wyre Forest. Outside the breeding season, singles (unless otherwise stated) were noted at Aytons Heath, Bittell Reservoirs (two), Castlemorton Common (two), Hurst Coppice, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor, Kinsham Lake, Westmancote in January while in February singles were noted at Abberton, Aston Mill, Upton Warren and Wood Norton (two). During the second winter period singles (unless otherwise stated) were noted at Upton Warren in September, Bredon Hill in October, Castlemorton Common, Eymore Wood and Upton Warren in November and Castlemorton Common, Crossway Green, Defford airfield (three), Hinton Cross, Pirton Pool (two), Stoke Bliss, Stoulton and Wyre Piddle in December. Staffs Roding/summering birds were recorded throughout Cannock Chase (14 birds), plus Hawksmoor, Highgate Common and Jackson’s Coppice. In the first winter period, birds were recorded at Anslow, Apedale CP (two), Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Banktop Wood, Belvide, Blithfield, Chasewater Dimmingsdale (two), Dunstall, Gailey (three at Fullmoor Wood), Gratton, Hales Hall Pool, Hanchurch Woods (three), Moneystone, The Roaches, Swallow Moss and Tittesworth. No birds were recorded anywhere in August and October and the only September sighting was one at Chasewater on 12th. In the second winter period, four shot at an estate near Abbots Bromley included one with a much smaller bird than normal. Elsewhere, sightings came from Alton (two), Apedale CP (six), Aqualate, Belvide (two), Berry Hill (two), Blithfield, Chasewater, Croxden Quarry, Dosthill, Five Clouds, Folly Hall (two), Gailey, Hanchurch Woods, Keele University, Park Hall CP, Roach End (two) and Swallow Moss. W Mid Single birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on January 2nd, February 26th and March 10th. Other sightings concerned one bird at Wren’s Nest on March 26th, two in Reedswood Park on April 23rd and singles in Elkin Wood on April 4th, Sutton Park on May 1st and Birmingham on November 4th.

2007 Addendum Warks One was reported roding during the breeding season at Clowes Wood, Earlswood.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks The only spring reports were of four circling Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on March 13th, another there on April 10th-11th, and one circling Draycote on 26th. The first post- breeding records involved one over Charlecote GP on June 21st, with a party of four seen at both Ladywalk and Kingsbury on 22nd. Subsequent reports came from: Abbots Salford, one on August 1st; Brandon, three on July 7th, four on 17th, one on 18th, two on August 2nd, three on 21st, one on 23rd, and one which stayed from September 28th-October 30th; Draycote, singles on July 7th and October 6th; Fisher’s Mill GP, five on August 31st; Ladywalk, singles on July 14th, August 2nd-3rd, and from September 27th-29th; Shustoke,

98 five flew east on September 1st; and finally Toft Farm Lakes, one on October 11th, the first site record. Worcs An early bird was at Upton Warren intermittently from February 14th to 26th whilst singles were noted over Abberton on March 31st, at Grimley on April 16th, Bredon’s Hardwick and Wood Norton on 26th. In May, two were at Longdon Marsh on 2nd and Grimley on 6th. Three at Upton Warren on June 27th heralded the start of return passage and were followed by four there on the 29th, at least another four on July 6th, 11 on 24th, three from 25th to 27th, one on August 2nd, six on 3rd, one on September 15th and 16th and one on October 18th. Elsewhere, one was at Grimley on July 6th, eight at Bittell Reservoirs on 7th and one also there on 24th and 25th, one at Grimley on 29th, one at Bittell Reservoirs on August 2nd, two at Grimley on August 5th, seven at Lower Moor on 10th and one also there on 13th, three at Bredon’s Hardwick on 20th, one at Longdon Marsh on September 18th, one over Hanbury Park (Worcester) on 25th and finally two late birds were at Longdon Marsh on November 14th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide – – – 14 4 4 5 19 – – – – Blithfield – – – – 1 1 31 25 – – – – Doxey Marshes – – – 1 43 1 – – 1 – 2 – Drayton Bassett – – 3 1 42 5 4 5 5 – – – Tittesworth ––––1–25––––– The highest count of 43 at Doxey occurred on May 10th, coinciding with the 42 at Drayton Bassett Pits. Untabulated records were 12 at Croxall NR on June 29th, two at Chasewater on July 11th, three at Silverdale Colliery on 19th, one at Westport Lake on August 3rd and six at Whitemoor Haye on 17th. W Mid Eight briefly visited Marsh Lane NR followed by two more equally brief visitors on July 10th LJoh, per NPB, plus single birds on August 12th DJS and September 20th per NPB. Two visited Sandwell Valley on July 16th, with singles on August 1st, 30th to mid- September and November 23rd per RSPB.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks Spring singles flew through Draycote on April 17th, 19th and 20th. Three were at Toft Farm Lakes on September 23rd and one at Ladywalk on 28th. Worcs One that flew over Upton Warren on April 20th was the only record. Staffs Seventeen birds this year was an excellent total. A protracted spring passage began early with one that flew through Blithfield on March 29th, followed by further singles here on April 1st, 20th, and 27th, with five on May 4th and another five on May 31st. By comparison, return passage was poor with just one at Blithfield on September 11th and two at Chasewater on October 2nd.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Warks Spring passage commenced early with one feeding in a wet field at Birchmoor on April 10th, followed by singles at both Abbots Salford and Draycote on 12th and flying north over Fenny Compton on 13th. A bird flew north over Salford Priors GP on April 20th, with three moving west over Draycote on 21st, with three more there on 22nd and a total

99 of five (including four on the ground early on) through on 23rd. At Alvecote, also on April 23rd, four of an over-flying party of seven dropped in to feed. Further singles were seen in flight over Brandon on April 24th, at both Crimscote and Morton Bagot on 26th and over Brandon again on 27th, with two landing for a while at Draycote on the latter date. The last spring migrant flew north at Salford Priors GP on May 5th. Return passage began with a single bird at Draycote on July 13th, followed in August by three over Camp Hill, Nuneaton on 3rd, one at Salford Priors GP on 10th and one calling over Napton Hill on 25th. Subsequently, one was circling over Draycote on September 6th, with a late bird at Salford Priors GP on September 28th. Worcs Singles at Harvington on April 12th, Kinsham Lake and Upton Warren on 20th with three at Eckington the same day, one Bredon’s Hardwick and two at both Grimley and Kinsham Lake on 21st, two at both Grimley and Upton Warren on 22nd, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 24th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick, two over Abberton, one at Bury End Flash, six at Grimley and two at Ryall Pits all on 26th, one still at Bury End Flash on 27th and 28th, one over Barbourne (Worcester) on 28th, four at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 3rd, two at Clifton on 4th, nine at Grimley 5th, one over Bewdley on 9th, two over Holt on 12th, one at Ryall 16th, one over Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th, singles at Clifton and Holt on 28th, and one at on June 3rd. Staffs Another good year, with 43 in the spring (35, 41, 34 and 22 in the previous four years), four in the summer and 14 in the autumn (16, six, 10 and 50 in the past four). The first arrived at Belvide on April 12th, probably the earliest record for this site and was quickly followed the next day by another, with four at Barton GP and two over Drayton Bassett Pits. After this, birds were seen at Blithfield on 19th, Branston GP on 20th, Chasewater, Whitemoor Haye and Yarnfield on 21st, Belvide (two), Blithfield and Tittesworth on 25th, Belvide, Croxall and Whitemoor Haye (two) on 26th and Whitemoor Haye (four) on 27th. In May there were birds at Berry Hill and over Revidge on 1st, Uttoxeter Quarry (two) on 3rd, Whitemoor Haye (two) on 4th-5th, eight for 20 minutes at Drayton Bassett Pits on 16th, Berry Hill on 29th, calling over Croxden Quarry and Needwood Airport on 29th and Black Hall Fishery on 30th. June saw three visit Belvide on 4th and one fly over on 11th. Autumn passage produced single birds at Blithfield on July 4th, Tittesworth on 13th, both these sites on 19th, Blithfield on 20th, Drayton Bassett Pits on 21st, Blithfield on 22nd, Cheddleton on 23rd, Blithfield on 29th, Belvide on 30th, Blithfield on August 2nd, Belvide on 3rd and 17th and finally Blithfield on 31st. W Mid A very poor year, with the only confirmed record being one briefly at Marsh Lane NR on April 27th per NPB. Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Fairly common summer resident and passage migrant. Frequent in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath 1 8 11 7 – – 7 7 12 6 2 – Bredon’s Hardwick 2 7 3 2 – 1 – – – – – – Upton Warren 25 42 48 6 3 30 40 42 42 38 25 26 Barton GP –––11–––11––– Belvide –262151–42–– Blithfield ––3––1113––– Branston GP 15 15 10 3 – – 5 9 12 11 2 12 Croxall NR – – 1 1 – – – – 2 – – 2 Croxden Quarry – 1 1 2 2 – 1 – – – – – Halfpenny Green – – 1 2 2 – – – – – – –

100 JFMAMJ JASOND Keele – 1 2 4 – 1 1 – – – – – Knotbury – – 6 – 8 2 – – – – – – Onecote Grange Farm – – 1 3 4 – – – – – – – Silverdale Colliery – – 2 1 – 1 5 – – – – – Tittesworth – 47 125 14 4 5 13 2 – – – – Uttoxeter Quarry ––4222964452 Woodhead – 1 3 – 1 – – – – – – – Warks A pair reared three young at Polesworth, while pairs were also noted during the breeding season at , Broom, Clifton-upon-Dunsmore, Morton Bagot, Oxhill, Radway and Sherbourne (two). This wader is still in dire trouble as a breeding species and has disappeared from many traditional sites in recent years, including Preston-on-Stour where its absence was reported for the first time. Giving a faint glimmer of hope, one heard calling at Maxstoke on May 6th was the first for four years at this former stronghold. Away from breeding sites there were reports of up to three birds covering all months, from Alvecote, Brandon, Birdingbury, Charlecote GP, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Grand - borough, Hillmorton, Salford Priors GP, Sawbridge, Seeswood, Shrewley, Toft Farm Lakes and Wootton Wawen. The frequency of spring and summer sightings in the Leam valley area east of Draycote suggest that a pair may be attempting to return there. Worcs Four pairs nested at Eckington, while single pairs were present at Holt and Wyre Piddle throughout the breeding season, one over Stoke Bliss on March 15th, four were at Powick Hams on 19th, two at Lower Park on 24th, one at Longdon Marsh on March 23rd and a pair were noted there on May 26th, one flew over Westwood Pool on April 7th, at least three pairs present on Upton-upon-Severn Hams in April, one at Cutnall Green on May 12th, one at Lower Ham, Kempsey on June 9th. Staffs An improvement in breeding numbers was due to increased coverage as part of the BTO Atlas project. Breeding was confirmed at Keele (pair with one chick) and Royal Cottage (pair with chicks) and pairs/territories were recorded at Agardsley Park, Anslow Common, Badgers Croft, Baldstones (four), Blore Pipe, Brook House Farm, Boarsgrove, Brindley Ford, Brown Edge, Chatcull, Coombes Valley, Cotonwood, Crakemarsh, Cross - plains, Croxden, Deep Hayes, Eland Lodge, Fawside Edge, Flash, Fleet Green (three), Fole, Forest Banks, Fradswell, Gradbach, Gun Hill, Halfpenny Green, Hall Moor, Hayes (one-two), Hazel Barrow, Hollinsclough, Hulme (three), Knotbury (four), Lady Edge, Lordsley GP, Ludburn, Lum Edge, Meerbrook (three), Morridge area (five), Newborough, Onecote Grange Farm (two), Reapsmoor, Revidge (two), River Dove at Fauld, Roaches, Stubwood, Swallow Moss, Thorswood (one-two), Upper Leigh, Uttoxeter – Willow Farm, Wincle and Winkhill (two).

Year 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Territories 102 59-61 64-65 67-68 70-71 The only untabulated double-figure counts were at post-breeding flock of 12 birds at Dilhorne on July 26th and 11 at Lloyd Drumble on December 22nd. Wintering/passage birds in the early months were recorded at 18 untabulated sites, with the largest counts being nine at Coal Brook, Hales on January 27th and at Coldmeece Pools on March 2nd. This too is substantially down on last year when several double-figure flocks were recorded at 33 untabulated sites. W Mid Single birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR on March 4th and 31st, May 1st, June 4th and July 7th, flying over Clayhanger on March 7th, Lutley Wedge on April 3rd and in Sandwell Valley during May.

101 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant, very rare in winter. Warks There was a bird in partial breeding plumage at Salford Priors GP on May 11th JJB and return singles were at Coleshill GP from August 19th-22nd BLK et al. and Brandon on September 28th BMCG. Staffs Five birds this year was an improvement on last year’s poor showing of two. The first was in early spring at the western end of Doxey Marshes on March 15th which then flew off high to the north. The next was not until June, when a summer-plumaged bird lingered at Belvide from June 16th-18th. A probable early returning bird, again in summer plumage, was at Blithfield on July 2nd, with the final records of the year comprising singles at Drayton Bassett Pits on August 31st, and a juvenile at Belvide on September 3rd. W Mid A bird at Ryders Mere on May 8th was the first record for the site KMC.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – 1 3 8 8 7 3 1 – 2 – – Dosthill/Kingsbury 2 3 2 6 4 1 1 – – 1 4 2 Draycote 1–11––1111–2 Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath – – 4 6 3 3 – 1 – – 1 – Salford Priors GP – – 1 5 6 4 – – – – – – Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – 1 – – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 2 6 2 – – – – – – 1 – Bury End Flash –––8–––––––– Grimley 11244–––––11 Gwen Finch Wetland – – 4 3 5 7 3 – – – – – Kinsham Lake –––––3–––––– Lower Moor – – 2 2 2 2 – – – – 1 – Ripple Pits – – 1 – – – – – – – – – Ryall Pits – – 4 8 10 10 3 – – – – – Throckmorton ––222––––––– Upton Warren 1–538453–––– Alrewas Pits –51213––––8– Barton GP 1––32–––4–62 Belvide 1–42235462–– Blithfield – – 2 1 – 1 9 13 7 – – – Branston GP 43642––––––– Chasewater – – – 1 1 – 10 1 7 1 – – Coley Brook Marsh – – – 2 1 – – 1 – – – – Croxall NR 24 17 10 4 4 3 5 1 2 2 13 22 Doxey Marshes – 1 19 15 8 10 2 – 3 – 1 – Drayton Bassett 24332312––26 Ingestre – – – 2 1 – – – – – – – Silverdale Colliery – – 3 – – – – – – – 1 – Tittesworth – – 1 – 1 1 5 – 1 – – – Uttoxeter Quarry – – 1 – – – – – – – 1 – Whitemoor Haye 68865612––21 Marsh Lane NR ––8109892––1– Sandwell Valley – – 1 2 3 1 – – – – – – Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (three, of which only one pair hatched chicks which were soon predated), Ladywalk area and Salford Priors GP (two, but both failed). Away from tabulated sites, up to three were noted in the spring elsewhere in the Tame Valley at Coleshill GP, Coton, Haunch Lane Flood and Shustoke, with singles also

102 at the latter site on August 10th and 28th. Up to three were present on floodwater at Little Packington during March 7th-April 7th. Other reports included singles over Warwick Race Course on March 13th, in a flooded field at Woolscott on 17th, at Toft Farm Lakes on April 3rd, Abbots Salford on 20th and flying over the Fenny Compton Hills during a shower on 24th. In June, singles were noted at Charlecote GP on 21st and Seeswood Pool on 30th. Worcs At Ryall Pits up to five pairs were present and three fledged young were noted on June 15th, while at nearby Upper Ham a probable nesting bird was noted on April 25th, a pair fledged three young at Gwen Finch Wetland, a pair nested at Lickmore Wetland and fledged two juveniles, a pair nested at Throckmorton Lagoons but were predated, while four young fledged at Upton Warren by the end of June and two pairs nested at Grimley. Away from the tabulated sites singles were noted at Westwood Pool on April 2nd, a passage adult at Lickmore Wetland on July 11th. and one at Pershore Wetland on November 19th. Staffs One pair had young at Croxall, seven pairs attempted at Doxey where three juveniles were seen, a pair showed signs of having young at Drayton Bassett Pits and a pair with a juvenile at Meretown in July might have bred there or nearby. A pair was present at Ingestre in the spring but showed no signs of breeding.

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Pairs (Successful) 5(2) 13-14(4-5) 8(4) 8(2) 7(1) 9(1) 10-13(2) 10 (2-4)

Untabulated records comprised birds at Uttoxeter Quarry on March 9th, Silverdale Colliery (three) on 15th, River Sow Meadows on April 26th, two at Fradley on May 22nd, CHADS Nature Study Area on July 4th, Stanley Pool on 5th, Croxden Quarry on 7th and 15th, Croxden Quarry and Uttoxeter Quarry on November 1st and Silverdale Colliery on 9th. W Mid At least three pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, but only one youngster fledged. One bird was present at Clayhanger from February 18th until June 29th, with two from March 14th, and one visited Dunstall Park on March 26th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coleshill GP – – – – – – 1 2 – – – – Draycote ––––1–111––– Ladywalk – – – 1 – – 1 2 2 – – 1 Morton Bagot –––––––21––– Salford Priors GP –––21–11–––– Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – – 2 – – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – – – 1 1 – – 1 – – – – Bury End Flash – – – – 2 – – – – – – – Clifton Pits –––––––21––– Grimley ––––1–112––– Gwen Finch Wetland––––1–11–––– Ryall Pits – – – – 1 – – 1 – – – – Upton Warren – – – – – – 1 1 1 – – – Belvide –––11–112––– Blithfield – – – – 1 – 2 7 2 – – – Doxey Marshes – – – – – – – 3 – 1 – – Drayton Bassett – – – – 2 – 1 3 3 – – – Tittesworth – – – – – – 1 1 1 – – – Uttoxeter Quarry – – – 1 1 – 1 – 1 – – – Whitemoor Haye – – – – 2 – – 2 4 – – –

103 Warks Good series of records came from the tabulated sites, but the only site to hold more than two was Haunch Lane Flood which had up to three from May 16th-18th and up to four from July 6th-11th. An early bird heard calling over Shustoke at dusk on March 30th was the first spring record, and there was one at Kingsbury from April 23rd-25th. The first return bird visited Fisher’s Mill GP on June 30th, while further non-tabulated reports concerned two at Earlswood Lakes on July 30th, one over Charlecote GP on August 30th, singles at Dosthill on September 3rd, Brandon on 14th and Shustoke on 18th, two at Alvecote on 23rd and one again at Brandon on 29th. A mid-winter bird over Ladywalk on December 30th was unusual. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites singles were at Kemerton Lake on April 20th, over Little Comberton on August 7th, at Lower Moor on 10th, Ripple Pits on 16th and Longdon Marsh on 29th, September 4th and 13th. Staffs First seen at Uttoxeter Quarry on April 19th and last seen at Doxey on October 17th. Untabulated records were received from Blake Hall Fishery on May 27th, River Dove at Fauld on July 28th, Croxall on August 10th, Elford North Pit on 17th, Alrewas Junction Pit (two) on 21st and at both Chasewater (two) and Essington Quarry Pool on September 6th. W Mid Sightings at Marsh Lane NR involved single birds on May 14th and August 17th, and three on September 4th. Single birds were noted at Fishley and Pelsall North Common on August 22nd and Smestow Valley on September 31st.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 2 1 2 2 – 1 6 2 2 1 – – Brandon 1 1 – 1 – 4 13 10 3 1 2 1 Coleshill GP – – 3 3 – – 13 15 2 1 – – Kingsbury area 1 1 1 4 1 1 7 5 6 6 1 1 Ladywalk area 1 2 1 2 – – 3 6 2 3 2 3 Lighthorne Pools 3 2 2 2 – 1 2 3 3 2 – 2 Morton Bagot ––11––451111 Salford Priors GP 2 2 4 5 – 1 17 25 9 6 2 3 Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – 4 – – 1 – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 1 – – – – – 1 5 – – – Clifton Pits ––4––17114212 Grimley 3432–3565335 Gwen Finch Wetland – – – – – – 2 7 – – – – Holt – – – – – 1 1 1 – – 1 – Kinsham Lake ––––––––––1– Lickmoor Wetland – – – – – – 13 1 – – – – Longdon Marsh – – – – – – 3 7 5 – 1 – Lower Moor 1 1 – 1 – – – 7 – – – – Ripple Pits – – 1 – – – – 4 – – – – Ryall Pits – – – – – 2 13 9 5 1 – 1 Throckmorton 3333––211––– Upton Warren – – 1 3 – 4 11 11 8 2 2 – Aqualate – – 1 – – – – 1 – – – – Barton GP ––1–––3–3––– Belvide 221––222212– Blithfield – – – – 1 1 1 4 – 1 – 1 Branston GP 1412––45522– Clay Mills – – – – – 1 – 1 – – 2 –

104 JFMAMJ JASOND Coley Brook Marsh – – – – – – 2 6 – – – – Croxall NR –1––––342––1 Doxey Marshes – – – 2 – 1 3 1 – – – 1 Drayton Bassett 5 2 5 3 – – 5 9 4 2 2 2 Elford GP 1––––––1–––– Ingestre 2 – 1 1 – – – 1 – 2 1 – River Dove, Fauld – 1 – – – – 1 1 2 – – 1 Tittesworth ––––––42–1–– Uttoxeter Quarry 1 2 4 4 1 5 6 7 5 3 3 3 Whitemoor Haye ––––––––5––3 Goscote Valley 1 1 – – – – – 1 1 1 1 – Marsh Lane NR 1125–2132111 Clayhanger/Ryders Mere – 1 – 3 – – – – 1 – – –

Warks The last spring migrant was noted at Kingsbury on May 1st, while the first return bird appeared at Lighthorne Pools on June 5th. Away from the main sites there was a maximum of three on floodwater at Little Packington on February 8th, while mainly singles were also noted at: Alvecote, Baginton, Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Coleshill STW, Coombe Abbey, Coton, Draycote, Farnborough, Hampton Wood (River Avon), Haunch Lane Flood, Middleton village, Moreton Morrell, Napton Res, Seeswood Pool, Shustoke, Stretton-on-Dunsmore, Toft Farm Lakes, Whitacre Heath NR, Whitacre Waterworks, Wishaw and Wormleighton Res. A pair was seen in song and display flight at Salford Priors GP on April 13th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, singles were noted at Abberton on September 6th, one at Hartlebury on October 16th and 22nd and Wick from October 20th to 22nd. Staffs Untabulated records came from Weston Jones on January 8th, Coldmeece Pools on March 2nd and 15th, Hints on 24th-25th, Burton-on-Trent on April 4th, Chasewater on 12th, Great Haywood on 21st, Croxden Quarry on July 1st, Knypersley Reservoir on August 2nd, Stanley Pool on 3rd, Keele University on 15th, Berry Hill (two) on 18th, Crossplains 20th-30th, Little Haywood (two) on September 3rd, Stone on October 4th, River Sow Meadows 5th-31st, Radford Meadows on November 9th and Broad Heath on 27th. W Mid One at Clayhanger on April 21st was observed displaying. Elsewhere, there were two birds noted at Minworth STW on January 9th and one on March 17th, singles at on April 8th, Sandwell Valley on July 18th and August 7th and 15th, and Sheepwash UP on 21st, two at Dunstall Park on July 28th and Fishley on August 22nd, and singles at Cornets End on November 3rd and Berkswell on December 19th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has over-wintered. Warks Spring singles were at Salford Priors GP on May 5th, Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on 12th and Coleshill GP on 16th-17th, with three there on 18th. A late bird was seen at Morton Bagot on June 13th. On return passage there were singles at Alvecote from August 1st-4th, Morton Bagot on 2nd, Ladywalk on 20th and Draycote on 26th. Worcs Spring passage comprised one at Ryall Pits on May 4th SRo, JBrin, one at Lower Moor from 8th to 10th RAP et al., four at Upton Warren on 14th JHWR, DAJ, MJI et al. and one at Holt on 18th BRS et al. Two noted at Holt on June 13th BRS et al. may have been early return passage birds as they were accompanied by a Green Sandpiper. Further records comprised singles at Bittell Reservoirs from July 31st to August 4th TMH et al.,

105 Clifton Pits on 30th and 31st DJa, PWill, one at Ryall Pits on 31st AW et al., and finally singles at Clifton Pits on September 11th MJI et al. and Ryall Pits on 21st AW et al. Staffs Fifteen birds this year was an above average showing compared to the period 2004-2007. As last year, the first was at Drayton Bassett Pits from April 29th –30th, followed by one at Whitemoor Haye on May 4th joined by a second on 5th. Doxey Marshes hosted its first of the year on May 13th-14th, when it was accompanied by another on 15th. Further singles were at Wood Sandpiper at Coleshill GP, Steve Seal Drayton Bassett Pits from May 19th-20th, 22nd-23rd, and 26th, and Blithfield on 22nd. Autumn passage commenced with one at Alvecote Pools – Pretty Pigs Pool, on August 1st-2nd, then a juvenile at Blithfield from 8th-9th, and three on 17th, a juvenile at Belvide on 21st, one at Drayton Bassett Pits on September 1st, and finally a single at Doxey Marshes on 14th. W Mid A bird at Marsh Lane NR on May 11th was the first there since May 2005 DJS.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford – 1 1 4 4 – 2 1 2 1 1 – Brandon – – – 1 3 1 3 1 1 – – – Coleshill GP – – – 2 3 – – 2 – – – – Dosthill/Kingsbury – – – 1 2 1 3 2 4 – – – Draycote – – 1 4 5 1 14 11 4 1 1 1 Earlswood –––31–42–––– Ladywalk area – – 1 1 1 – 4 2 1 – – 1 Salford Priors GP – – – 2 6 8 12 6 3 – – – Shustoke –––3235831–– Bittell Reservoirs – – – 4 – – 6 4 3 1 – – Bredon’s Hardwick – – – 3 1 – 4 4 1 – – – Clifton Pits –––22–652311 Grimley ––34222221–– Gwen Finch Wetland – – – – – – 1 2 – – – – Holt – – – 1 1 – 1 – – – – – Kinsham Lake –––2––11–––– Lower Moor – – – – 2 – – – – – – – Lower Park – – 1 – 1 – 2 1 – – – – Ripple Pits – – 1 – – – – – 1 – – – Ryall Pits – – – 1 – – – 2 1 – – – Throckmorton –––27124–––– Upton Warren –––543433–1– Westwood Pool – – – 1 – 5 6 – – – – – Aqualate – – – 4 2 – 1 1 – – – – Barton GP ––1–23515––1

106 JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide –––6361197––– Blithfield 1 1 1 6 4 12 27 15 3 1 2 1 Branston GP –––2–143–––– Chasewater – 1 – 1 2 2 8 5 7 1 – – Croxall NR ––––––4431–– Croxden Quarry – – – 1 – – 2 – 1 – – – Doxey Marshes –––12–1–1––– Drayton Bassett – – – 2 2 1 2 2 – – – – Gailey – – – 6 – – – 1 – – – – Rudyard Lake – – – 2 1 – 2 – – – – – Stanley Pool – – – – – 1 2 1 – – – – Tittesworth –––345858––– Uttoxeter Quarry –––756881––– Westport Lake –––31111–––– Whitemoor Haye –––711823––– Marsh Lane NR 11255–542111 Sandwell Valley – – – 2 1 1 3 1 – – – – Warks Two pairs nested at Salford Priors GP, but the young were again thought to have been predated shortly after hatching. Apart from several wintering birds, extreme dates of migrants were March 24th at both Draycote and Ladywalk, and October 10th at Shustoke. Away from tabulated sites there was a maximum of three at Seeswood Pool on April 15th and four at Keresley CP (Exhall) on 16th, with one or two also noted at: Alvecote, Bedworth Nook, Bidford-on-Avon, Charlecote GP, Coombe Abbey, Coombe Fields (Ansty Park), DMC Kineton, Edstone, Marlcliff, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Packington Park, Purley Quarry, Shrewley, Toft Farm Lakes and Whitacre Heath NR. A colour-ringed bird at Seeswood on April 15th had been marked as a downy juvenile at Ladybower Reservoir (Derbyshire) in July 2002. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, singles were noted on the River Severn near Tiddesley Wood on April 13th and Westwood Pool on 15th while later in the year seven were noted at Strensham Lock on July 19th and 20th. Staffs Wintering birds continue to become more regular and sightings at Blithfield in every month of the year is probably the first time this has happened at any site in the county. The wintering bird at Blithfield from 2007 was seen regularly there throughout the first winter period and into April and in addition, there was one at Essington Quarry Pool on February 5th another at Chasewater on 29th and a third at Barton GP on March 3rd. Quite when the first spring bird arrived is thus hard to say, but singles at Belvide and Ingestre (Pasturefields) on April 8th were the first at other sites. Pairs bred successfully at Barton GP (one young) and Tittesworth (two young). The last bird on passage was probably one at Essex Bridge on November 1st and after this one again wintered at Blithfield throughout November and last seen on December 11th, along with one at Barton GP on December 9th. Untabulated records came from Alrewas Pits on April 12th-26th, Silverdale Colliery on 13th, Wolseley Bridge on 15th, Knypersley Reservoir on 16th, Coley Brook Marsh 19th and 24th, Chatterley on 21st, Consall CP on 22nd, Waggersley (two) on 28th, Greenway Bank CP on May 3rd, Alrewas Pits on 16th and 21st, Coley Brook Marsh on July 19th, Knypersley Reservoir on 20th, River Dove at Fauld on 23rd, Clay Mills STW on August 7th, Okeover Mill on 10th, Coley Brook Marsh and Elford North Pit (two) on 17th, River Trent at Colwich on 28th, flying over Leek (Barnfields area) on 29th and River Sow Meadows on September 14th. W Mid The over-wintering bird at Marsh Lane NR (first recorded on November 29th 2002) was seen on six dates in January, three in February and eight in March, and later in

107 the year on three days during late October, three in November and two in December. Most likely the same bird was seen at nearby Bradnock’s Marsh on February 12th. Away from the tabulated sites, one or two birds were seen occasionally at Ryders Mere between April 18th and September 7th, and at Dunstall Park from April 21st to July 29th. Three birds were noted at Sheepwash UP on April 16th, with singles at Fens Pools on the same date and May 18th, Netherton Reservoir on April 26th and May 3rd, Edgbaston Reservoir on April 27th, Goscote Valley on May 3rd, Walsall Arboretum on 7th, Sheepwash UP on July 6th and Berkswell on August 8th, and two at Stubbers Green on 21st and one on September 7th and 9th.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius Very rare vagrant (3/10). Staffs A long staying juvenile/first-winter bird was discovered at Tittesworth near the dam on November 22nd and stayed until December 18th SGib. During its stay it drew large numbers of admirers and proved quite confiding. This is the third county record after two previous birds, both at Belvide in May 1982 and May 2005.

Spotted Sandpiper at Tittesworth Reservoir, Dave Kelsall

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks Singles were noted on spring passage at Draycote on April 19th-20th, May 18th and June 4th, while Kingsbury had two on May 18th and one on 22nd. The first return bird was found at Earlswood Lakes on August 2nd, only the third for the site. Draycote then had a good series, with singles on August 7th and 10th, two on 13th, one on 20th, two on 31st, one on September 1st, and finally a good-sized party of nine on 2nd. Worcs Singles were noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on May 8th and on 18th and 19th and one flew through Bittell Reservoirs on September 1st. Staffs The trend of increasing numbers continues, with another impressive total of at least 52 birds this year.

108 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 18 14 24 50 27 37 55 52 The first birds of the year were not seen until May 4th, when three arrived at Drayton Bassett Pits. This site remained popular throughout May with birds present up to the 20th producing a maximum count of four on the 13th. Blithfield held birds from May 8th-19th, with four on 19th the highest count. Away from these two main sites, there were just singletons at Barton GP on May 5th and Uttoxeter Quarry on 18th. Blithfield hosted the first returning bird on July 17th, increasing to three on 19th, with one to three birds present from 25th until August 16th. During this period the only other records came from Chasewater with an adult on July 29th, a juvenile at Belvide on August 8th and a single near to the visitor centre at Tittesworth on August 11th. On September 6th there was a notable influx, with six flying through Blithfield and an impressive 18 at Belvide. The latter was a new site record, eclipsing the previous best of 12, recorded 19 years ago to the day almost on September 5th 1989. The final record of the year was a late bird which lingered at Chasewater from December 1st-10th. W Mid Three birds were at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 27th ASi, with one reported on August 18th.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Rare passage migrant in autumn, often storm-driven. Very rare at other times (8/10). Warks Following the record five in 2007 there was another outstanding year for this usually rare wader, with three birds recorded. A juvenile was well-watched at Shustoke from September 5th-11th PSo et al., while singles were found at Draycote on 12th BHaz and on October 6th-7th JFCJ et al. Worcs An adult was present at Upton Warren on September 11th and 12th many observers. Staffs One was present at Blithfield on September 6th MPR. W Mid A juvenile stayed at Marsh Lane NR for about two and a half hours early in the afternoon of August 24th SHare before being flushed by an Osprey! It was the second record for the reserve.

Great Skua Stercoraria skua Rare passage migrant (6/10). Warks A single bird was seen flying high over Draycote on September 7th REH.

Sabineʼs Gull Xema sabini Rare passage migrant (3/10). Staffs A juvenile arrived early morning of 31st August at Westport Lake and spent the rest of the day there, giving many observers extremely good views DKel. This is the ninth county record after seven previous records from Blithfield and one from Belvide. Sabine’s Gull at Westport Lake, Dave Kelsall

109 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks After an adult was found in the pre-roost at Draycote on February 2nd, there was a sparse spring passage of adults involving singles at Draycote on March 11th and 24th, three at Coton early on 23rd and at least one more on 24th, and further singles at Brandon on 29th, Shustoke on April 9th and Alvecote on 17th. An adult was seen following the River Avon south-west at Barford on August 18th, followed by single first-winters at Draycote on September 29th, October 5th, November 2nd and 10th. A final first-winter flew south-east at Fenny Compton on November 27th. Worcs All sightings relate to birds observed during the first half of the year, com - mencing with a first-winter at Throckmorton Tip on January 5th, while at the Westwood Pool roost a first-winter was noted on February 26th, then two adults on March 11th. An adult was seen briefly at Hartlebury Tip on March 8th, another adult drifted south over Grimley on 16th, Throckmorton Tip held an adult on 22nd and finally an adult visited Bredon’s Hardwick on May 2nd. Staffs After last year’s poorest count, a complete turnaround this year with a couple of exceptionally large flocks passing through, giving the best total count for many years.

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 10 12 37 22 8 111

March saw most of the activity with adults passing though Belvide on 13th, 16th and 21st, followed by one at Chasewater on 23rd, five on the 24th and 53 on the 25th. These birds dropped in at 13:05 but departed soon after when disturbed by a power boat. The 26th saw 11 adults at Blithfield and another at Chasewater. After this, a first-summer was at Chasewater on April 28th, a single at Belvide on May 5th, one at Blithfield on 24th with a first-summer on July 17th and one on October 27th. A first-winter at Belvide on November 2nd was followed but the second large group, this time 29 flying through Blithfield on 23rd. Finally an adult was recorded at Westport on December 8th. W Mid Two adults arrived at Marsh Lane NR at midday on March 6th during a marked passage of Black-headed Gulls. Single birds visited Bartley Reservoir on January 6th and Sheepwash UP on April 14th.

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 Bittell Reservoirs 1000 233 24 – – – 8 262 5 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick 47 98 16 74 – – – 3 61 – 1 58 Grimley 250 200 7 5 6 – 25 18 20 43 52 30 Kinsham Lake 10 133 15 35 3 5 – – – 18 6 30 Throckmorton Tip 1800 1200 500 4 9 20 100 65 200 230 1200 1500 Upton Warren 10 1250 415 92 32 32 800 1000 1200 1300 100 139 Westwood Pool 4000 3000 2000 15 0 0 30 100 1200 2000 4000 4000 Alrewas – 211 140 – 140 72 – 55 500 – – – Aqualate – 35 – – – – – – 100 250 1500 200 Belvide 250 6000 3500 – 2 2 50 800 – 2500 2000 200 Chasewater 12000 8000 2000 18 6 15 1300 2700 4200 80001000011500 Copmere – – – – – – – – – – 300 1500

110 JFMAMJ JASOND Croxall NR 400 – – – – – – 250 72 – 120 29 Doxey Marshes 148 184 175 6 9 4 91 80 25 78 120 196 River Sow Meadows 250 – 60 – – – – 150 70 200 250 150 Silverdale Colliery 30 – 2 12 – – 800 1100 250 650 850 55 Tittesworth 1000 50 50 7 2 4 84 267 45 84 2300 2300 Uttoxeter Quarry – – – – 12 5 300 200 82 160 170 185 Westport Lake 1800 1 1 5 29 3 71 98 250 – – 1500 Dunstall Park 700 450 200 10 – 7 500 550 600 300 600 300 Marsh Lane NR 70 225 250 26 30 20 114 305 445 155 270 235 Netherton Reservoir 330 400 150 1 – – 10 107 48 50 124 180 Sandwell Valley 211 300 204 80 2 57 80 180 380 222 160 250 Stubbers Green – 490 98 2 – 39 705 437 50 – – – Warks There were no counts of nests at the substantial Kingsbury gullery, but counts of 376 on May 6th and 434 on June 19th gives some idea of its size. On June 28th at least 204 juveniles were counted on Canal and Cliff Pools. Nearby there were 60 birds at Dosthill Lake in June, with a minimum of ten (and probably more) nests situated in rush beds, which is an extension of the Dosthill NR gullery across the county boundary in Staffs. Up to 500 were present at Dosthill Lake by the end of the month. Outside the breeding season flocks of up to 500 were fairly widely reported, with counts of 550 on floodwater near Charlecote Park on January 21st, 800 passing through at Toft Farm Lakes on September 4th, 1200 moving south-east at Fenny Compton on November 27th, and up to 600 at Napton Res during the same month. A post-roost assembly at Brandon peaked at 1200 on January 6th and 1500 on December 14th and 28th. The only estimate of the Draycote roost was 10000 on November 15th, while numbers using the Coton roost rose from 2000 on December 1st to 8000 on 31st. An albino was seen in the relatively small Shustoke roost on November 6th, which numbered around 400 during October-November. Worcs At least 16 pairs nested at Upton Warren, with approximately 26 young fledged. The only reports away from the tabulated localities comprised a roost of 500 on floodwater at Upton-upon-Severn Lower Ham on January 12th, followed by 1200 here on 20th, 2400 on January 24th and 2000+ on 26th, while 970 were at Lower Moor on March 3rd, 230 at Arrow Valley North on September 7th and 800 at Upton-upon-Severn Ham on November 13th. Staffs There was no report of any breeding birds at Aqualate. At other sites however, there were good-sized colonies of 250-300, 200, 150-200 and 17 pairs, all of which showed good productivity. The albino which first roosted at Chasewater in 2006, roosted on and off at Belvide until February 22nd and Chasewater until March 29th. It then re-appeared at Belvide on October 30th but was seen only once more there, preferring to roost at Chase- water until the year end. A westerly movement of 3500 birds between 09:30 and 11:30 was noted at Belvide on March 9th. A bird with a white darvic ring FNP took up residence at Westport Lake from February 29th until March 21st. This was ringed in the nest on June 20th 2007 at Hirsholm, Frederikshaven, Denmark. Other large flocks comprised 1400 at Bateswood Lake on January 1st, 400 at Radford Meadows on 23rd with 250 there on February 5th, 1000 at Swynnerton Landfill on December 23rd and 350 at Draycott-in-the- Clay on 26th. W Mid Two pairs nested at Ryders Mere raising three young – the first breeding record in the county KMC. Up to two pairs remained at Marsh Lane NR during May and June, but neither bred. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded just one bird, along the River Cole (east). Away from tabulated sites, high counts included 300 birds at Minworth STW on January 9th, 250

111 on 18th and 500 at Longmoor Pool on 27th, 370 in Sutton Park on February 24th, 300 at Box Trees airfield on October 5th and 320 at Edgbaston Reservoir on November 30th.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks A slightly above average year with most of the passage occurring predictably at Draycote, commencing with an adult in the roost on March 4th, followed by two first- winters on 24th, a first-summer on April 1st, an adult on 5th, and then one or two almost daily from 18th-27th with four on 20th-21st, nine on 22nd-23rd, four on 25th and five on 27th. At least 21 birds were involved in the latter series, mostly adults but with one-three first-summers on some days. The final spring report from Draycote was of two first- summers on May 9th. In the Tame Valley there was a second-winter at Coton on March 16th and a first-winter in that area from 21st-24th; a first-winter at Kingsbury on 29th, with three adults there on April 23rd; and a first-summer at Coton on 30th. Single adults were also noted at Brandon on April 18th and Alvecote on 23rd. There were unseasonal records of single first-summers at Draycote on June 19th-20th and July 15th. Post-breeding

Adult Little Gull at Kingsbury and first-winter at Coton, Steve Seal records began on August 31st with two juveniles at Alvecote and one at Kingsbury, with the latter staying to September 5th. Two first-winters were at Shustoke on September 7th and one on 8th. Two juveniles flew through Draycote on September 15th, with two first- winters there on 16th and one on 17th and 21st. Up to two first-winters were then present daily here from October 1st-11th, with one of these remaining until 25th. Subsequently, six birds (five adults and a first-winter) were noted on November 6th and a final first-winter on December 27th. Worcs During the first winter period, an adult was noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on January 2nd and a second-winter in a flooded field with Black-headed Gulls at on 12th. Upton Warren recorded a strong spring passage of birds, with five adults, one second-summer and eight first-summers observed between mid April and early May. These records comprised two adults and a first-summer on April 15th, two adults on 16th, one adult on 17th, 18th and 19th, two adults on 20th, an adult and 2nd-summer on 21st, two adults and a second-summer on 22nd, a first-summer between 25th-27th, plus on 29th and 30th, two first-summers on May 3rd and an adult and four first-summers on 8th. Upton Warren also held one of unspecified age on 30th. Elsewhere, an adult was noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 17th, two adults were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 23rd and a first-summer at Westwood Pool on 24th, 25th, 26th and 29th. Second winter period sightings comprised a first-winter in the gull roosted at Westwood Pool on November 1st,

112 also being noted here early the following morning and a first-winter at Arrow Valley Lake on December 26th. Staffs The first arrivals were two adults at Blithfield on March 28th, one staying until the 29th, followed by three at Aqualate on April 3rd and a first-winter on 4th and 8th. After this, an adult at Blithfield on 16th was followed by three from 21st-23rd, one at Branston GP on 21st, another at Chasewater on 21st-22nd, another at Blithfield on 26th and three more on 27th. Three first-summers then lingered at Branston GP from April 30th until May 4th, another at Chasewater on 6th, a first-summer at Drayton Bassett Pits and three at Chasewater on 7th, an adult at Drayton Bassett Pits on 14th with a different one on 15th. Return migration saw a first-summer at Belvide on July 30th, a second-winter at Aqualate on August 18th-21st, six adults and four first-winters through Belvide on September 7th, one at Blithfield 8th – 9th then a long-staying juvenile there from 15th-22nd. Another juvenile lingered at Chasewater from 16th-18th and the final bird was at Blithfield on November 15th. W Mid An adult bird visited Sheepwash UP on March 15th ATh and a juvenile was reported at Edgbaston Reservoir on September 11th. Franklinʼs Gull Larus pipixcan Very rare vagrant (2/10). Warks On April 16th a second-summer bird was watched for 25 minutes at Brandon during the afternoon TBr, RED, before being relocated in the evening gull roost at Draycote REH et al. It then appeared in the early mornings and late afternoons at Draycote daily until April 21st and was much appreciated by the many observers. This was the second accepted county record (and third regional), the first also coming from Draycote on November 6th 2002. Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote 5 7 4 3 – – – 2 1 1 5 3 Belvide –11–––2111–– Blithfield 1 2 3 – 1 – 1 1 – – – – Chasewater 3 5 1 – – – – – 2 1 2 4 Doxey ––2––––2–––– Essington Quarry Pool – 2 – – – – – 1 – – – – Gailey 1 1 – – – – – – – – 1 1 Westport – – 1 – – – 1 1 – – – –

Warks Draycote had a good year with an early year maximum of seven on February 24th, and a post-breeding peak of five on November 12th. Other reports during the year included an adult in partial breeding plumage on floodwater at Wasperton on March 3rd, a second-winter on fields near Sawbridge on 17th, single breeding plumaged adults at Brandon on April 16th, Fisher’s Mill GP on June 1st, Seeswood Pool on July 13th and at Chesterton on 21st; single juveniles at Salford Priors GP on August 10th and Brandon on 14th; an adult at Shustoke on October 9th, single first-winters at Dunchurch (on a sports field) on November 11th and in a field at Grandborough on December 4th, with an adult at Napton Res on 24th. Worcs Reports during the first half of the year comprised a first-summer at Throck- morton Tip on March 2nd, an adult, with Common Gulls on a field near Broadway Tower

113 on 5th, a first-summer at Bredon’s Hardwick on 7th, a second-summer at Powick Hams on 19th, an adult following the plough with Common Gulls near Lalu Farm, Bredon Hill on April 10th, a first-summer at Upton Warren on 27th and 28th and an adult at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 23rd. The Upton Warren gull roosted attracted good numbers, particularly juveniles throughout July and August, with an adult present on July 7th, a juvenile on 23rd, a juvenile and second-summer on 24th, the latter returned on 25th, while in August, a colour-ringed juvenile (white on left leg EO29) ringed at Noordelijk Insteekdak, Belgium on June 21st, was observed on 6th and 7th and hereafter, unringed juveniles were noted every day, apart from 11th, between 8th-22nd. Elsewhere, Westwood Pool held a juvenile on July 23rd, a juvenile was at Lower Park Farm Pool on 31st and August 2nd, a white colour-ringed juvenile (left leg) frequented Grimley on 9th, a juvenile was noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 12th, while Upton Warren held a second-winter on October 10th, followed by a first-winter here on 13th and 16th. The only report during the second winter period involved an adult and first-winter in the Westwood Pool roost on November 17th and 18th. Staffs After last year’s flooded out attempts, this year saw two pairs nesting, one of which fledged two young – the first successful breeding in the county. A juvenile at Westport on July 31st was ringed in Belgium and another bearing a red ring at Belvide on September 18th indicated an Eastern European origin (Poland, Hungary or Czech Republic). A count of five birds at Chasewater on February 2nd was a site record. Untabulated records comprised one at Tittesworth on February 25th, an adult at Drayton Bassett Pits on July 21st and a first-winter at Swynnerton Landfill on December 23rd. W Mid During the first winter period, a bird was seen in Sandwell Valley on January 3rd per RSPB, with single adults at Bartley Reservoir on 28th, February 12th and March 1st TMH, and Ryders Mere on February 8th – the first record for the site KMC. A probable second-winter bird flew over Reedswood Park on April 30th EOs. Later in the year, a juvenile visited Marsh Lane NR on August 23rd GPR, with an exceptional three adults on 28th per NPB and one adult from September 27th-30th GPR, DJS. Single adults visited Sandwell Valley on September 3rd per RSPB and Olton Mere on 19th – the first record for the site ARD. First-winter birds roosted at Bartley Reservoir on October 10th, 13th and 14th TMH and November 16th ACu. Second-winter birds also roosted at Bartley Reservoir on October 12th, 14th, 15th, 17th, 19th and 22nd, and November 15th TMH. Adults were also reported at Stubbers Green on January 6th and 27th, and December 22nd, plus a first- winter bird in Woodgate Valley on October 21st. Common Gull Larus canus Common winter visitor and passage migrant, principally to the south and east of the region. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Kinsham Lake 3 25 61 150 – – – – 1 1 10 9 Upton Warren –2211–3111–1 Westwood Pool 4 5 2 – – – – – 2 4 9 9 Bateswood Lake 11 6 14 – – – – – – – – – Belvide 1–4––111–419– Blithfield 8 2 3 – – – 4 – 3 2 2 10 Chasewater 70 50 30 1 – – 1 – 1 1 7 20 Silverdale Colliery 10 1 1 – – – 1 – – – 2 2 Tittesworth 280 120 5 1 – – 1 – – 1 37 134 Westport Lake 5 13 6 4 – – – – – 2 1 9

114 JFMAMJJASOND Bartley Reservoir 10 10 7 – – – – – 2 12 10 6 Coundon Wedge – 25 1 – 1 – – 1 1 1 – 8 Marsh Lane NR 3 19 22 4 – – – – 1 7 6 9 Stubbers Green 10 19 11 – – – – 1 1 – – 9

Warks Wintering flocks remained rather low during the first quarter in the Feldon district, and few flocks exceeded 150 during January-February. An increase was noted in March with the arrival of spring migrants, when maxima of 1000 on sheep pasture at Priors Hardwick on 9th and 600 at Napton Res on 14th were recorded. Away from this area Brandon had good-sized counts of 111 on January 6th and 156 on April 15th in the early morning post roost assembly. At Draycote, where there were no early year roost estimates, 400 were still present on April 16th, numbers dropping to 80 on 25th and 40 on 29th, with most of these later birds being immature. Small numbers continued to roost here into early May and counts of 30 at Grandborough on May 2nd and 30 at Ufton Tip on the 8th presumably were based at Draycote. Summer records included a subadult at Draycote on June 23rd, an adult at Hodnell on 25th, a bird at Brandon on July 16th, and odd birds at several sites from 26th. Most wintering birds began to return during the second half of October with a noticeable influx into the roost at Draycote on November 4th, when 10,000 were estimated. A large influx was also noted in the south-east during the first week in November, and counts included 500 at Napton Res on 20th and 700 moving south-east over Fenny Compton on 27th. Away from the Feldon region counts included 62 in the Coton roost on December 1st and 131 in the early morning assembly at Brandon on 31st. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, Grove School playing field, Malvern Link held two on February 3rd and 24th, while passage birds in March comprised 130 and 100 at Broadway on 5th and 26th respectively, 40+ at Kemerton on 15th, 175 at Powick Hams on 19th, five flew over Lower Park Farm Pool on 21st, 13 at Upton-upon-Severn Ham on 22nd and 75+ were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on 23rd and 250 on 25th. In April, the latter locality attracted three on 6th and nine on 12th, while one was noted at Grimley on 14th and further singles were noted at Ryall Pits on July 20th and Grimley on 24th and during the second winter period Bredon’s Hardwick held five on November 1st, then one on 16th, 42 were at Kemerton on 25th and one at Grimley New Workings on December 3rd. Staffs There were single-figure counts from 14 other non-tabulated sites with 14 at Rudyard Lake on December 23rd. W Mid Elsewhere during the first winter period, up to six birds were noted at Olton Mere, between Park Lime Pits and Riddian Bridge, and Ryders Mere, with one or two at Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Netherton Reservoir, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and Westwood Heath. Single birds were noted in Sandwell Valley in July and Allesley Park in August. A total of 20 birds was counted at Babb’s Mill Lake on November 12th. Elsewhere in the second winter period, one or two birds were seen at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Cornets End, Dunstall Park, Olton Mere, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Westwood Heath.

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Very rare vagrant (6/10). Worcs A first-winter was discovered with a small group of Common Gulls on the shingle island at Bredon’s Hardwick main pit, mid morning on November 1st AWa, but flew high north/east after just five minutes and was relocated over an hour later at Lower Moor RAP, where again it remained for five minutes, due to a low flying helicopter and

115 was finally observed briefly at Throckmorton Airfield in the early afternoon RAP. An adult roosted at Westwood Pool on December 22nd WDu. Staffs A second-year bird was present in the roost at Blithfield on January 22nd GJM and is only the sixth county record after other sightings at Westport Lake (two), Tittes - worth, Chasewater and Blithfield. 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 – – – – – – – – – 2500 1500 Dosthill 300 200 – – – 120 – – 500 1600 1100 – Bittell Reservoirs 400 8 4 4 3 1 18 10 6 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – 2 4 28 – 56 25 153 156 – 8 34 Grimley 12852236–66112– Kinsham Lake 8 22 25 200 40 42 16 60 – 2 21 6 Throckmorton Tip 4500 1800 2200 2600 650 1100 1850 2200 2500 2500 40004000+ Upton Warren – – 2 1 – 1 3 27 – 40 – 25 Westwood Pool 3500 1500 700 8 – 10 50 20 500 500 3700 4000 Aqualate – 2 – – – – – – – 68 4000 – Barton GP – – – 2 9 88 15 – 220 – – – Belvide 2500 2000 70 – 2 – – 374 1015 800 2000 3500 Blithfield – – – – – – – – 3 180 100 550 Chasewater 450 1500 1450 317 39 8 330 1100 2000 2000 12 350 Copmere – – – – – – – – – – 2000 500 Cotes Heath 100––––––––––1600 Croxall NR 50 – – – – – – – – 100 – 7 Croxden Quarry – – – 10 20 34 50 350 500 36 – – Doxey Marshes 20 100 4 4 15 1 10 10 2 3 10 38 Elford GP ––2–3–––600––– Silverdale Colliery 120 – 400 4 7 70 600 450 450 170 85 60 Swynnerton Landfill 600 – – – – – – – – – – 1000 Tittesworth 90 7 14 6 6 7 33 56 94 9 11 15 Uttoxeter Quarry – – – 2 12 7 8 15 – 27 39 5 Westport Lake 22 30 25 12 33 7 9 16 – 9 – 17 Dunstall Park 41 14 30 25 30 19 40 110 63 73 36 32 Fens Pools 30 147 22 12 6 4 5 4 3 2 3 48 Edgbaston Reservoir – – 2 16 58 – – – 33 42 80 – Marsh Lane NR 12 15 21 10 200 43 60 60 30 49 135 60 Netherton Reservoir 270 480 83 6 6 4 15 114 110 120 145 130 Olton Mere 12 – – – – – 262 73 9 – – 14 Sandwell Valley 4 5 9 23 12 6 4 10 7 4 6 10 Stubbers Green 34 90 20 15 40 450 786 377 500 – – 25 Warks The only counts from the Draycote roost were of 1000 on April 16th and 2000 on November 15th, but 1500 were estimated on an evening flightline over Rugby on October 17th which were heading for here. In addition, 400 were counted in the roost at Shustoke on November 2nd. Other counts during the year were mainly of birds feeding on farmland in the post-breeding period. A selection of counts included 160 at Willoughby on June 1st, 200 at Ufton Tip on 27th, 220 on ploughland at Chesterton on August 25th, 450 on fields between Fenny Compton and Northend on 28th, 330 near Wormleighton Res on 29th, 220 at Old Arley on September 26th, 500 at Church Farm, Wormleighton on 27th, 350 at Woolscott on October 14th, 480 flying over Fenny Compton on 23rd and 350 on pasture at Bishop’s Tachbrook on December 21st. Additionally, up to 500 frequented Lawford Heath Tip during the autumn months.

116 Worcs Two pairs bred successfully at Bredon’s Hardwick, while numerous as a breeding species in and around Worcester City Centre. Three reports away from the tabulated localities comprised 103 at Clifton Pits on August 7th, 22 at Pirton Pool on 17th and 2000 flew northwest over Naunton Beauchamp on November 23rd. Staffs Untabulated treble-figure counts were 113 at Radford Meadows on January 23rd and 750 pre-roosting at Coldmeece Pools on December 21st. W Mid A survey in Birmingham city centre revealed at least five occupied nests in three locations. Several pairs also bred at Castle Bromwich, Gravelly Hill, Tipton and Wolver - hampton. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water- courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 38 birds in 12 of the transects and six of the watercourses: River Cole (central and east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central, Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). The only notable count away from tabulated sites involved 100 birds at Box Trees airfield on October 5th. 2007 Addendum W Mid Young were noted in a breeding colony on the roof of the Solihull Rover Factory at Elmdon. ʻIntermediateʼ Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius Warks Reports of birds (mainly adults) showing characteristics of this race included: two at Salford Priors GP on March 2nd, one at Draycote on April 18th, six on farmland near Wormleighton Res on August 29th, two more north of Wormleighton village on September 27th and one at Napton Res on November 7th. In addition up to 15 were present at Dosthill Lake during November-December. Staffs At Chasewater, many of the 700 roosting at Chasewater on March 16th were considered dark enough for intermedius or intergrades, there was one on July 12th and one or two on August 28th GEva. At Silverdale Colliery, there were three on July 18th and two on 22nd NDP. Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and an uncommon breeding species. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 450 – – – – – – – – – 215 450 Dosthill 1000 370 – 2 2 8 2 – 30 80 95 450 Bredon’s Hardwick 10 3 1 9 – 2 2 8 32 – 4 2 Kinsham Lake 4 9 15 15 10 5 2 10 4 6 2 4 Throckmorton Tip 2000 1800 800 400 30 40 350 400 600 1100 2000 2500 Westwood Pool 350 500 150 2 – – – 15 40 80 400 1000 Upton Warren – 2 2 4 1 – – – 1 5 2 6 Belvide 2000 2000 4 – – – – 5 – – 70 75 Chasewater 2000 700 300 11 2 – – 2 30 – 95 1900 Copmere 800 – – – – – – – – – 30 700 Cotes Heath/Coldmeece 600 – – – – – – – – – – 500 Drayton Bassett 100 p 3 5 – – – – – 10 20 29 Little Wyrley 300 – – – – – – – – – – – Silverdale Colliery 60 16 2 – 1 – 6 20 35 5 1 37 Swynnerton Landfill 1500 p – – – – – – – – – 1000 Tittesworth 5 1 2 1 1 – 1 13 – – – 1 Westport Lake 13222––1––3–2 Dunstall Park 35 10 5 4 2 – – – 2 2 9 11 Marsh Lane NR 12672424311524 Netherton Reservoir 29 19 7 2 2 2 1 10 8 10 26 12 Stubbers Green 239 30 8 – 1 5 17 11 50 – 20 184

117 Warks Away from the Tame Valley, there were no late winter counts from the huge Draycote roost but 100 were still here on April 16th, while ten at Ufton Tip on May 8th were no doubt Draycote birds. Very small numbers were noted in the north during the summer months, and at Earlswood Lakes up to four were present regularly from May-July. Early winter counts away from the tabulated sites included 92 roosting at Shustoke on November 2nd and 500 in the Draycote roost on 15th. Counts of Draycote birds using the regular flightline over Fenny Compton to Alkerton Tip (Oxon) peaked at over 300 on December 21st and 350 on 29th. There was an early morning post-roost assembly of 200 on pasture by the M40 at Bishop’s Tachbrook on December 21st. Worcs Small numbers observed in and around Worcester City Centre during the breeding season, where almost certainly nested. Away from the tabulated sites, 30 roosted at Upper Bittell Reservoir and two were noted at Pirton Pool on January 13th, Lower Park Farm Pool held two between May 9th-26th, plus on July 5th and 6th, then a single bird between 24th-August 14th, two were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 17th and two at Pirton Pool on November 16th. Staffs Untabulated double-figure counts included 42 at Bateswood Lake on January 1st, 19 over Whitmore-Bent Lane on December 14th and 20 at Draycott-in-the-Clay on 26th. W Mid Birds bred in Birmingham city centre, but no further details were received, with others present in Wolverhampton city centre during the breeding season. Birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR on 50 dates during the year, cf. 21 in 2007.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 43–––––––444 Dosthill/Kingsbury 4 4 – 1 – 2 3 1 3 6 4 3 Draycote 1962–––556364 Bittell Reservoirs – – – – – – 2 1 – 1 2 – Throckmorton Tip 7+11–––743475 Westwood Pool 421–––1–2145 Wildmoor Tip 3 1 – – – – 2 – – – 2 2 Belvide 5104––1–11468 Blithfield 432–––11–1–3 Chasewater 3 3 5 1 1 1 6 7 2 5 4 4 Copmere 6 – – – – – – – – – – 3 Cotes Heath 1––––––––––4 Croxden Quarry – – – – – 1 1 3 1 – – – Doxey Marshes – – 1 2 1 – – – – – – 1 Drayton Bassett 11–––24–––2– Silverdale Colliery 1 1 – – – – 5 6 3 1 – 2 Other Sites 3 – – – – 1 2 1 1 – – 5 Bartley Reservoir 644–––2–1336 Stubbers Green – 1 – – – 1 2 2 2 2 1 – Warks There was a peak of 19 at Draycote on January 16th. Despite the good numbers at the tabulated sites there were no records from other sites during the first three months, although a first-summer visited Alvecote on April 23rd. Post-breeding reports were much more numerous, commencing with a third-summer at Birchmoor on July 18th, single adults at Rugby on 26th and Chesterton on August 25th, a first-year bird at Wellesbourne on 30th, and further single adults at Hampton Lucy on September 2nd and Stratford Heath on 7th. A first-winter was at Toft Farm Lakes on September 23rd, while two adults and a

118 second-winter were on farmland at Wormleighton on 27th. Subsequently, an adult was in the Shustoke roost on October 30th and November 2nd, an adult and first-winter were at Lawford Heath Tip on November 19th with the latter bird again on December 1st, and another first-winter was at Alvecote on 2nd. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, Grimley held one on January 13th, while flooded fields at Powick Ham attracted two on 13th, one on 19th, four on 20th, two on 25th, one on 26th and one on February 3rd. Singles reported from Bredon’s Hardwick on February 15th, Hartlebury and Norchard on March 8th and Kinsham Lake on 23rd, two were at Upton Warren on May 3rd, Grimley held a second-summer on 19th, 24th, June 2nd, 3rd and 13th, with this same individual noted at Holt on June 5th, while singles were observed at Clifton Pits on 14th, Bittell Reservoirs on July 25th, Upton Warren on August 21st and Bredon’s Hardwick on November 24th. Staffs Present in every month of the year for the first time. The records from “Other Sites” were at Little Wyrley on January 3rd, two at Wilnecote Tip on 24th, two at Clay Mills on June 27th, Tittesworth on July 13th, Uttoxeter Quarry on 27th-28th with another on August 24th, three at Barton GP on September 20th, two at Aqualate on December 11th, two at Coldmeece Pools on 21st, one at Berry Hill on 27th and Westport Lake on 29th. W Mid Single adults visited Dunstall Park on January 5th, Dartmouth Park on 14th, Olton Mere on 18th and Marsh Lane NR on February 24th, where a second-winter bird was noted on March 18th, and first-years on May 26th and December 28th. Other sightings involved a second-winter bird at Ryders Mere on March 6th, an adult at Ellowes Hall School (Sedgley) on October 7th and a second-winter bird at Babb’s Mill Lake on November 12th.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Rare winter visitor (9/10) Warks A good series of records occurred at Draycote during the late winter period, with the roost holding one or two adults on six dates during January 3rd-24th and a second- winter on 14th, up to possibly six different individuals (single adult and third-winter, and two each second and first-winters) from February 5th-7th, a second-winter on 14th and third-winter on March 4th RCM et al. The Coton roost held an adult on January 4th, a second-winter on 6th ARD, and two adults on 7th JOat, TPe, with probably one of these at Dosthill Lake on the same day ARD. Autumn reports began with an adult and subadult in the Shustoke roost on November 2nd LJoh, and a first-winter on 4th CRS. An adult was at Draycote on November 5th LJoh, but the only subsequent report from here was of an adult on 22nd RCM. In the Tame Valley, an adult was at Dosthill Lake from November 12th-14th and again on 17th ARD, with presumably the same bird in the Coton roost on the latter date ARD. A third-winter was at Dosthill on November 12th and 14th ARD, and at Coton on December 2nd and 16th RLS, with a bird described as a near adult at Coton on December 22nd ARD and then at Dosthill on 31st ARD. A fourth-winter type bird at Coton on November 12th and then photographed at Dosthill Lake on 13th ARD showed characteristics of a possible Caspian x Herring Gull hybrid, but a natural variant could not be ruled out. Worcs Throckmorton Tip held an adult on January 1st RAP et al., which was the same individual seen here on December 31st 2007 and was joined by a second adult BRS et al., on 2nd, then single adults were observed almost daily between 3rd-10th. An adult was at Westwood Pool on January 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 14th and 15th SMWh. Second winter period sightings comprised a third-winter at Throckmorton Tip on November 3rd RAP, a

119 third-winter roosted at Westwood Pool on 8th WDu, a third-winter was noted at Wildmoor Quarry on 13th TMH, an adult at Westwood Pool on 16th WDu, while an adult at Throckmorton Tip on 28th GHP, RAP et al. roosted at Westwood Pool the same evening WDu, SMWh. Staffs This species continues to increase at the major winter roost sites, this being the best year on record and excludes some un-submitted records which might have boosted the total further.

Year <2001 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Birds 0304015818+

A first-winter bird was found at Silverdale Colliery on January 1st SJT. At Chasewater, in the first winter period, a second-year bird roosted regularly between January 4th and March 25th. Also roosting there were a first-winter on February 2nd, 16th, 28th and March 7th, adults on January 16th and February 22nd and another second-winter bird on March 1st and 8th. GEva, PJey, PDH, GJM et al. At Belvide, the same or different first-winters were seen occasionally, on January 16th, February 2nd, 7th, 15th, March 5th and 8th and a second-winter roosted from February 26th-March 1st SNut. At Blithfield, there was just one sighting of an adult in the roost on January 25th GJM and at Kingswood Pools there was an adult on February 24th SAR. There were no sightings in April-June but on July 2nd- 3rd, a first-summer appeared at Silverdale Colliery SJT, after which the next was a third- winter at Chasewater on September 27th PJey – possibly one of the second-winter birds from the start of the year. This bird spent many of its days at Stubbers Green but was not seen in the Chasewater roost again until October 29th GEva, PDH, after which it was fairly regular until the year end, joined by an adult between December 6th-18th and a second- winter on 20th PJey. Elsewhere, there was a sub-adult in the Blithfield roost on October 20th GJM, MPR, an adult on 6th and another sub-adult from 20th-26th GJM. At Belvide, a third-winter bird, presumably the same as at Chasewater, roosted on November 11th SNut. W Mid One of the second-winter birds that arrived at Stubbers Green in November 2007 continued to be seen until March 8th, with two reported on February 3rd and March 8th several observers. Different adults were noted at Bartley Reservoir on January 12th TMH and Bartley and Frankley Reservoirs on 17th and 19th TMH, ACu. Later in the year at Stubbers Green, a second-summer bird visited on June 26th RCl, different fourth-winter birds were seen on September 4th and 9th, and 23rd, and different second-winter birds were present on 9th and 25th at least RCl. A third-winter bird was seen on several days from October 4th to December 27th at least RCl et al., with another third-winter reported on October 4th and 11th. Single adults were also reported from October 29th-30th, November 28th, December 5th-6th and 16th, with a second-winter also on 27th. A first- winter bird was seen at Babb’s Mill Lake on October 24th JJB. A third-winter bird visited Bartley Reservoir on several dates from November 5th to December 14th ACu, TMH, with a first-winter reported on November 14th and an adult seen on December 27th ACu, TMH.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks An excellent year with possibly around a dozen birds involved. During the first quarter, apart from a juvenile in the gull roost at Coton on February 15th TPe, all reports came from Draycote. Here the roost produced an adult on January 12th RCM, a juvenile on 24th, 25th, 29th and 31st BHaz, RCM et al., possibly a different juvenile on February

120 21st-22nd RCM, a second-winter on 29th PDH, a new juvenile on February 27th and March 4th, and finally a third-winter on many dates during 5th-26th RED, JFCJ, RCM et al. Autumn reports began with a very early second-winter bird at Draycote on October 24th RCM, but the only later record from here was of a juvenile on December 9th RCM. In the Tame Valley, an adult was at Dosthill Lake on December 12th ARD, with a different adult in the Coton gull roost on 29th ARD, JOat, RLS and 31st ARD, RLS. Worcs Though absent from the county during January and February, a small influx occurred in March, including five individuals reported from Throckmorton Tip, where two juveniles were noted between 4th-11th RAP, SMWh et al., with one remaining on 12th and 13th, an adult on 16th WFP et al., a new juvenile on 19th RAP et al. and a fourth juvenile on 23rd WFP et al. The two Throckmorton juveniles roosted nightly at Westwood Pool between 4th-8th SMWh et al., while a single juvenile roosted here on 11th WDu and at Lower Moor, two juveniles were observed on 4th, 6th and 7th, then one on 9th, 10th, 12th and 13th RAP et al. A juvenile flew over Spetchley Crossroads late afternoon, with other large gulls on March 4th GHP, while a juvenile frequented Hartlebury Trading Estate and Hartlebury Tip on 20th and 21st SMWh et al. During the second winter period, Throck- morton Tip held an adult and juvenile on December 14th GHP et al. and a juvenile on 21st RAP et al., while the Throckmorton adult roosted at Westwood Pool on 14th SMWh et al. and the Throck morton juvenile roosted here on 21st SMWh et al., with both individuals observed leaving the roost on their respective mornings. Staffs A good series of records from the first winter period but few in the second. Chasewater hosted a third-winter on January 12th PJey, IWar, a juvenile on 15th-25th PJey, IWar, GJM et al., a second-winter on February 1st with a different one from 4th, both roosting on and off until 23rd, a third-winter on 15th which had been at Belvide the previous two evenings, another third-winter from 23rd until March 6th and finally a juvenile from March 23rd-26th GEva, PJey et al. for all the latter records. The third-winter bird in late February was also seen at Kingswood Pools, Cannock on 24th SAR. At Blithfield, an adult roosted on 22nd, a juvenile and third-winter from 28th-29th with the juvenile also on 30th GJM et al., at Aqualate, a juvenile roosted on February 8th PJor and at Belvide a juvenile roosted from 13th-15th with a third-winter from 13th-14th SNut. In the second winter period, a juvenile which roosted at Copmere on December 27th was joined by another from 28th until 30th NDP. These birds were also seen loafing at Cotes Heath during the day and commuting with other gulls to the Swynnerton Landfill site. W Mid A juvenile bird visited Dunstall Park on January 14th per ADi. Two different second-winter and second- or third-winter birds were frequently noted at Stubbers Green from February 7th to March 8th several observers. One of these was seen at nearby Ryders Mere early in the morning on February 15th KMC and the other flew northwards in the evening on 20th KMC – the first records for the site. Four different juvenile birds were seen at Bartley Reservoir and sometimes at nearby Frankley Reservoir: from February 17th- 22nd TMH, March 2nd ACu, 12th TMH and 18th-21st ACu, TMH. The only record in the second winter period was of a juvenile bird at Dunstall Park on December 14th per ADi.

Kumleinʼs Gull Larus glaucoides kumleini Very rare winter visitor (4/10) Warks The juvenile, first seen in Worcestershire, was located in the Draycote gull roost from February 6th-9th JFCJ, TMa, RCM et al. This was only the second confirmed county record of this race; the first was of an adult at the same site on January 1st 2001. Worcs A juvenile discovered at Throckmorton Tip on February 3rd BRS et al., was also

121 observed here on 4th and 6th, whilst it roosted at Westwood Pool between 3rd-6th WDu et al. This was the third county record, the last being in November and December 2005.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Warks The good series of records reported in 2007 continued into the New Year. The Draycote roost held a juvenile on January 12th RCM, followed by a different juvenile on 16th, 22nd and 27th-31st RCM, TMa et al., and then two juveniles and a second-winter on various dates during February 5th-March 5th JFCJ, RCM et al., with all three together on February 7th, 16th, 26th and March 4th. Single juveniles were then seen here on most evenings until March 21st many observers, with one again on 27th PDH. One of these juveniles was seen flying very low over Fenny Compton village on February 24th JJB, presumably heading for the landfill site at Alkerton (Oxon). This was the first record in the south-east of the county. Further birds were wintering in the Tame Valley during this period, with up to three (two juveniles and a second-winter) in the Dosthill area during January 17th-February 8th ARD, JHa, PDH, JOat et al., which were also noted scavenging on nearby Kingsbury Tip. A different juvenile was at Dosthill on February 22nd-23rd ARD et al. These birds were noted roosting at Coton on several occasions, with the second- winter and a juvenile on January 18th PDH, SMH, with the same juvenile again on 20th and a different bird on 23rd RLS. There was an early return in autumn commencing with a juvenile at Dosthill Lake on October 29th SMH et al. Possibly the same juvenile was then in the Draycote roost on many dates from November 4th-December 15th, with two on December 4th RCM et al. One of these juveniles was seen on a field at nearby Sawbridge on December 5th Glaucous Gull at Wilnecote Tip, Steve Seal RCM. Finally, back in the Tame Valley, a juvenile was at Dosthill Lake on December 15th ACu and 18th PDH. Worcs During the first winter period, five individuals, all juveniles were observed at Throckmorton Tip, with two present on January 1st RAP, SMWh et al., then singles on 5th, 20th, 27th, February 2nd, 20th, March 2nd, 3rd and 4th RAP et al. and on 16th WFP et al. Single juveniles roosted at Westwood Pool on January 2nd and 3rd GHP et al., March 4th SMWh, 5th WDu, TMH et al. and 6th SMWh, while a second-winter was noted at Wildmoor Tip and sand quarry on January 10th TMH et al. and a juvenile (Throckmorton bird) visited Lower Moor on March 3rd RAP. A juvenile was following the plough at Valley Farm, Elmley Lovett on March 6th MSo, while a juvenile commuted between Hartlebury Tip and Hartlebury Trading Estate on 8th BRS, SMWh et al. A single adult was observed during the second winter period at Throckmorton Tip on November 1st GHP et al. Staffs Juveniles roosted at both Chasewater many observers and Belvide SNut from January 1st-3rd. The Chasewater bird was also seen at Little Wyrley on 2nd RCla. Another

122 juvenile, found at Drayton Bassett Pits on 17th JHa, was joined by a second-winter the following day MJI. This bird roosted at Coton, these birds together also being seen from 19th onwards at the Wilnecote Tip where another juvenile was present from 20th-23rd JOat et al. One of the group remained until 25th with the second-winter remaining until 26th. At Chasewater, probably one of the juveniles above roosted on 24th-25th PJey, PDH and was also seen in the early afternoon on 26th but flew off and was later found roosting at Blithfield GJM, MPR. In February, two juveniles roosted at Blithfield on 2nd ESC and one at Belvide on several dates from 11th-21st SNut. The last sighting was of a juvenile at Drayton Bassett Pits on March 23rd MJI. In the second winter period, a juvenile was seen at Drayton Bassett Pits/Dosthill on December 18th PDH and another roosted at Copmere on 21st NDP. W Mid The second-winter bird at Bartley Reservoir from November 19th 2007 continued to roost until January 12th TMH. Juvenile birds visited Stubbers Green on January 26th SRi and Bartley on March 8th TMH.

Glaucous Gull X Herring Gull Warks A second-winter gull, presumed to be this hybrid was at Draycote on March 14th JFCJ, RCM. Staffs A hybrid juvenile roosted at Belvide on January 14th-15th SNut with it or another juvenile being seen at Kingswood Pools, Cannock on March 2nd SAR.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Dosthill 5242–22–––12961 Draycote 450 300 250 20 1 – – 3 – 6 20 550 Throckmorton Tip 3984––––2241020 Westwood Pool 14 4 – – – – – – – 1 3 13 Wildmoor Tip 12 5 – – – – – 2 – – 3 2 Aqualate – 1 – – – – – – 1 – 23 – Belvide 1812––––––1523 Blithfield 16 2 – – – – – 1 1 1 3 p Chasewater 300 8 42 11 – 1 – – – 3 68 210 Copmere 23 – – – – – – – – – – 17 Doxey Marshes –11––––––11– Drayton Bassett 9 3 3 1 2 – – – – – 6 3 Little Wyrley 65 – – – – – – – – – – – Swynnerton Landfill 25 – – – – – – – – – – 13 Tittesworth 1 2 – 1 1 – 1 1 – – – 1 Ryders Mere – 15 – – – – – – – – – 22 Stubbers Green 35 1 – – – – 1 – 2 1 4 45 Warks The count of 550 at Draycote on December 22nd and 27th PDH appears to be a county record. Away from tabulated sites very small numbers occurred widely. An immature at Northend on July 20th was unusual at this time of year in the south, where maxima included seven at Alcester Heath on December 14th and up to six together passing daily over Fenny Compton during 26th-31st. Worcs Reports away from the tabulated localities comprised singles at Kinsham Lake on January 2nd, Upper Bittell Reservoir on 8th and 10th, Grimley on 12th, Powick Ham on 26th, Lower Moor on February 21st, Bredon’s Hardwick on 24th, March 9th, 23rd and 25th and Kinsham Lake on March 15th, while two were at Upton Warren on 15th, one at

123 Lower Moor on April 14th and three at Kinsham Lake on 19th. Bredon’s Hardwick held a first-summer on August 9th, while during the second winter period, singles observed at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 1st, Kinsham Lake on 23rd and Upton Warren on December 31st. Staffs No more than three birds were reported from nine other sites. At Belvide, the aggressive bird showing a taste for ducks returned for its fifth year and was seen preying on a Tufted Duck on December 7th. W Mid A bird was seen at Netherton Reservoir on January 2nd, with two at Dunstall Park on 5th and one on 7th and March 2nd, singles at Marsh Lane NR on January 6th-7th, 10th and 20th, and four at Minworth STW on 9th. During August, single birds were noted at Fens Pools and Sheepwash UP on 21st and Allesley Park on 30th. Sightings later in the year included three birds in Coundon Wedge on October 4th, one at Marsh Lane NR on November 7th, five at Sheepwash UP on 21st and singles at Norton and Stockfield on December 29th. At Stubbers Green in December, 45 birds were counted on 4th and 43 on 9th.

Little Tern Sternula albifrons Scarce passage migrant. Warks Four reports were slightly above average, commencing with a bird at Draycote on May 24th RCM. In the post-breeding period there was an adult at Dosthill Lake on June 30th ARD, followed by singles at Draycote on July 29th BHaz, RCM and September 6th MD-L, RCM. Worcs One at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 27th and 28th AWa et al., was followed by another there on May 5th JHWR, JHS, RWP et al. Staffs Three visited Chasewater on May 6th PWar, an adult was at Blithfield on June 27th and a juvenile followed on September 11th MPR. W Mid One bird stayed at Marsh Lane NR for most of May 5th DJS – the second record for the site after the first only last year.

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida Very rare vagrant (2/10). 2007 Addendum Staffs One was present for most of the day at Belvide on June 8th SNut. This is the 4th county record and the second for Belvide – the first being on April 27th 1969. The other two records came from Blithfield (May 1970) and Keele University (May 2005).

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant. Warks Generally an excellent year, with around 200 recorded on both spring and autumn passages. The first spring migrant was seen at Lea Marston on April 21st and numbers subsequently peaked around May 4th-9th. Reports came from: Brandon, four on May 5th and five on 7th; Dosthill, two on May 9th; Draycote, noted on 14 dates during April 23rd-May 16th, generally up to five, but with up to 29 on May 5th, 14 on 6th, 24 on 8th, and up to 33 on 9th; Earlswood, one on May 4th and ten on 6th; Hodnell Pool, two on May 4th were the first ever at this site; Kingsbury, one on April 27th, two on May 4th, three on 6th-7th, up to 29 on 8th and five on 9th; Seeswood Pool, one on April 23rd; and Shustoke, up to nine on May 4th, four on 9th and one on 28th. Possibly the last spring migrant was a single at Draycote on June 11th, while the first return birds were of five

124 there from July 29th-31st. Subsequent reports from Draycote included: one on August 13th, up to 22 on 17th, up to at least 62 on 30th, two on September 2nd, a flock of 59 through on 5th, five from 6th-8th, three from 10th-12th, six on 13th and one on 15th. In the north during this period, reports came from: Alvecote, three on August 30th; Coton, two on August 31st; Fisher’s Mill GP, one on September 7th; Kingsbury, one on July 31st, up to five on August 17th, and one from September 3rd-5th; and Shustoke, three on August 18th-19th, up to six on 30th, two on September 6th-7th, four on 9th and four more on 11th. Additionally, there were more unusual reports of three flying over Rugby on August 30th and one over Birchmoor on September 4th. The final autumn record was of a single bird at Draycote on October 7th. Worcs A steady passage of spring migrants moved through the county during late April and early May, with Upton Warren holding singles on April 20th, 21st and 29th, followed by three on May 7th, increased to 19 on the 8th, with two remaining on the 9th. Elsewhere, singles frequented Upper Bittell Reservoir on April 22nd and May 4th, Kinsham Lake held two on April 29th, seven on May 7th, then one here on 9th, singles were noted at Top Barn Sailing Lake on 2nd and 9th, while Bredon’s Hardwick attracted 19 on 4th and one on 7th. At Throckmorton Lagoons, one was present on 5th, 10 on 7th and nine new birds arrived on 8th, Westwood Pool held five on 5th and two on 6th, while Grimley held two on 9th. From mid May, singles were noted at Bredon’s Hard- wick on 15th, Grimley on 16th, Westwood Pool on 19th and finally Grimley on June 2nd. Autumn passage commenced with singles at Bredon’s Hard - Black Tern at Seeswood Pool, Steve Seal wick (adult) and juveniles at Upper Bittell Reservoir and Westwood Pool on August 18th, the Westwood bird was still present the next day, while the Bittell bird remained until 21st. Other August sightings comprised singles at Clifton Pits on 30th and Lower Park Farm Pool and Upton Warren on 31st. Small numbers continued to trickle through the county during September, with an adult at Upper Bittell Reservoir, plus three adults and a juvenile at Westwood Pool on 3rd, with the latter locality holding two on 4th, three on 5th and singles (involving three individuals) on 7th, 8th, 11th and 12th. Bredon’s Hardwick held an adult on 5th and 6th, at least eight individual, all adults, passed through here on 7th, while a juvenile was observed on 17th. Upper Bittell Reservoir held a juvenile on 6th, an adult was at Top Barn Sailing Lake on 11th and a juvenile at Grimley between 15th-17th. Staffs This year, some exceptional numbers were recorded and the actual number of birds is impossible to reckon due to the uncertainty of whether some birds lingered from previous days or were new arrivals. An absolute minimum would be 277 (cf. 20 in 2007, 127 in 2006, 112 in 2005). The first arrival was on April 21st-23rd at Blithfield, the last also there on September 15th. Significant spring passage counts comprised 10 at Blithfield on April 27th, five on May 4th, nine on 5th, seven on sixth and 14 on 8th-9th. Elsewhere

125 there were five at Aqualate on May 5th, 10 at Belvide on 6th, 10 at Belvide, five at Chasewater, eight at Doxey and 12 at Gailey on 8th and five at Belvide on 9th. Spring passage was also noted at Dosthill, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth, Westport Lake and Whitemoor Haye. Autumn passage started early with nine at Belvide on June 8th and 18 on July 31st. Other counts included 47 at Blithfield on August 17th reducing to 39 on 18th- 19th, 20 on 20th, 19 on 21st, 26 on 30th, nine on September 3rd-6th, seven on 7th and five on 8th, 10th and 13th. There were five at Aqualate on August 17th, 34 at Belvide on August 17th-19th, 11 at Belvide and seven at Chasewater on August 30th. Return passage was also noted at Barton GP, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Westport Lake and Whitemoor Haye. W Mid Single birds were seen at Marsh Lane NR on May 4th, Sandwell Valley on 5th, Olton Mere on September 11th and Edgbaston Reservoir 15th.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus Rare vagrant, usually in autumn (5/10).

White-winged Black Tern at Draycote, Steve Seal Warks An adult in breeding plumage was consorting with Black Terns at Draycote on May 10th RWSK et al. This was the first modern county record for May. Staffs A long-staying juvenile attracted many observers during its stay at Blithfield from September 3rd-12th GJM.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Warks The only report was of a single bird at Brandon on April 30th BMCG. Worcs An adult was observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 21st DJa, TJa et al., an adult and juvenile were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 4th RAP and an adult was at Clifton Pits briefly on 13th AHo, AWa. Staffs The first bird arrived at Blithfield on April 26th, left during the morning of 27th and was seen later that day at Uttoxeter Quarry. One flew through Belvide at 12:30 on May

126 5th, after which there were two at Drayton Bassett Pits on June 21st, one at Knypersley Reservoir on August 9th, two at Belvide on 30th, two more at 09:30-09:40 on September 5th, another two at Blithfield on 13th and finally two juveniles at Drayton Bassett Pits on 23rd. W Mid About ten birds flew over Sandwell Valley on May 4th per RSPB. A record of eight “large” terns flying southwards over Marsh Lane NR on September 14th was presumed to involve this species per NPB.

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 10th (24) to October 3rd (23) 8-year average: April 6th (–4 days) to October 15th (+6 days) First seen on the early date March 29th at Blithfield and Chasewater; the next being on April 5th at Kingsbury and Draycote. The last bird was seen on October 6th at Blithfield.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote – – – 8 26 3 6 5 8 – – – Earlswood – – – 4 10 10 12 28 7 – – – Kingsbury –––3022121482––– Shustoke – – – 2 7 – 7 33 56 – – – Bittell Reservoirs – – – 6 1 3 15 5 95 – – – Bredon’s Hardwick – – – 2 16 2 2 7 16 – – – Grimley –––55–139–––– Upton Warren –––468775––– Westwood Pool – – – 1 13 3 4 6 16 – – – Alrewas – – – 10 1 17 2 – – – – – Aqualate – – – 2 5 5 – 5 – – – – Barton GP –––15121078–––– Belvide – – – 11 20 15 23 125 50 – – – Blithfield – – 1 13 38 18 40 25 12 2 – – Branston GP – – – 2 1 2 – 2 – – – – Chasewater – – 1 5 16 9 17 15 45 – – – Croxall NR – – – 14 38 31 15 2 – – – – Doxey Marshes – – – – 5 – 1 2 – – – – Drayton Bassett –––362163–––– Gailey – – – 4 4 12 – 12 – – – – Tameside NR –––––4650––––– Tittesworth ––––5–515––– Uttoxeter Quarry – – – 6 12 10 7 7 – – – – Westport Lake ––––6–2121––– Whitemoor Haye – – – 2 – 2 5 – – – – – Marsh Lane NR – – –22414134262 – – –

Warks Kingsbury had another very poor breeding season, where only a few pairs attempted to breed on Cliff Pool and all were again washed out in late May; and most unfortunately the species has been ousted from their former stronghold on the adjacent Canal Pool by nesting Black-headed Gulls. At Brandon, eight pairs hatched at least ten young, most of which probably fledged (cf. 12 pairs reared 20 young in 2007). The first arrivals comprised two at Kingsbury and one at Draycote on April 5th, followed by four at Kingsbury on 8th and one at Earlswood on 9th. Small numbers began to appear daily from April 12th. Maxima during the season included 26 at Draycote on May 16th and 28 at Earlswood on August 13th, which was a good count for the latter site. Counts at Shustoke

127 included a flock of 33 passing through on August 17th and 56 on September 6th, both unusually high for return passage. Otherwise small numbers were seen at most of the larger waters in the northern half of the county, with a maximum of ten at Alvecote. Reports from smaller waters included up to three at Abbots Salford and up to four at Wolvey Pools, with one or two at Napton Res, Shrewley and Toft Farm Lakes. Departure was fairly early, with the last record of a bird flying over Dunsmore Heath on September 15th. Worcs Three pairs, which nested at Upton Warren, fledged four young, while a pair at Bredon’s Hardwick fledged two young. The first spring arrival was noted at Grimley on April 16th, while away from the tabulated sites, other spring passage birds recorded at Kinsham Lake, where one was noted on April 20th, then three on May 5th and 7th, singles were observed at Arrow Valley North on April 27th and Clifton Pits on May 4th, 18th and 28th, while at Lower Park Farm Pool, two on 4th, reduced to one the following day. At Throckmorton Lagoons, one was present on May 8th, two on 28th and June 4th, while 10 individuals were recorded here during July. One was observed along the River Avon at Pershore on May 11th, Arrow Valley Lake held two on 14th, one on July 11th and 11 on 21st, Arrow Valley North held singles on June 16th and July 20th, two were at Lower Moor on June 24th, between one and six were regularly observed at Lower Park Farm Pool between July 5th-31st, while Hewell Grange attracted one on 11th and six on 23rd and Throckmorton Lagoons held one on 27th. During August an adult and juvenile were noted at Lower Park Farm Pool on 3rd, while at Clifton Pits, one was present on 18th, two on 24th and one on 30th. In September, Lower Park Farm Pool held two on 2nd and one on 7th. A notable autumn passage of terns through the county on September 6th included maximum counts of seven at Bredon’s Hardwick, 95 at Upper Bittell Reservoir and 16 at Westwood Pool, while the final report of the year came from Upton Warren on 23rd. Staffs Two very early birds were seen, at Blithfield and Chasewater, on March 29th, after which no more were seen until April 15th at Blithfield. Birds were seen regularly up until September 20th when two were at Belvide and the last two were at Blithfield on October 6th. Breeding occurred at several sites: three pairs with six young at Barton GP, two pairs attempted at Belvide, 19 nests at Croxall with probably 10 juveniles fledging, 23 pairs at Tameside NR and three pairs fledging five young at Uttoxeter Quarry. One or two birds were also seen at Borrowpit Lake, Branston Water Park, Clay Mills, Croxden Quarry, Elford GP, Rudyard Lake, Trentham Garden Lakes and Tutbury. At Chasewater, a bird with a neck wound was taken into care on September 2nd. The highest count of the year of 125 at Belvide, two parties of 62 and 63 passing through, was a site record and coincided with 78 at Barton and 25 at three other sites. W Mid An estimated 18 pairs attempted to breed at Marsh Lane NR, where flooding again caused disruption – at least 41 adults were recorded during May and June, whilst on July 5th a maxima of 17 fledglings, 13 chicks and four adults sitting on eggs were counted. Birds also bred at Ryders Mere, where at least 30 adults and 13 plus juveniles were noted on July 31st. Other sightings involved up to three birds in Sandwell Valley each month from April to August, one or two at Reedswood Park each month from April to July and up to three each month from May to July. Three birds visited Fens Pools on June 27th, with one or two seen at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 27th and May 4th, Winson Green on 8th, Walsall canal wharf on 30th, Sheepwash UP on July 6th, Cannon Hill Park on 7th, Dunstall Park on 12th, Blythe Valley on 13th, Berkswell on 14th, Netherton Reservoir on 15th and 25th, Edgbaston Pool on 23rd and Olton Mere on August 8th. A bird ringed at Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) in 2000 was seen at Marsh Lane NR in May.

128 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant in highly variable numbers. Warks There was an excellent but rather brief spring passage commencing with a single bird at Kingsbury on April 17th. Draycote then had a bird on April 20th and up to 14 were there on 22nd. On April 23rd a major passage saw a total of at least 277 moving through Draycote, including 224 during a single hour after early morning rain. On the same day at least 53 passed through Kingsbury, but there were no reports from other waters. Back at Draycote, up to 16 were present on April 24th, with up to six recorded daily until 29th, followed by two on May 1st, eight on 5th, and two on 9th-10th. The only other reports concerned singles at Alvecote on April 20th, Dosthill on 24th and Earlswood on 26th. Return passage was again remarkably heavy for this species and commenced with singles at Earlswood on August 2nd and Alvecote on 4th. Subsequent reports came from: Alvecote, one on August 30th; Draycote, one on August 12th-13th, seven on 17th, one on 19th, singles on September 2nd and 4th, four on 6th, and one on 7th; Earlswood, one on September 6th and two on 9th; Kingsbury, at least 40 passed through on September 6th and one on 11th; and Shustoke, 12 went through on August 12th, at least 25 more through on 30th, five on September 5th with five different birds on 6th, two on 7th and singles from 8th-11th. Many of the later reports involved juveniles. Worcs 10 individuals were recorded on spring passage, with singles (four birds) at Upton Warren on April 17th, 21st, 26th and 27th, two were observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 23rd, one at Kinsham Lake from 25th-27th and one at Bredon’s Hardwick, plus five+ at Westwood Pool on May 5th. Return passage birds comprised an adult at Throckmorton Lagoons on July 25th, a juvenile at Upper Bittell Reservoir between August 18th-21st, an adult at Upton Warren on 25th and 29th, was followed by a juvenile on 31st and one was at Westwood Pool also on 31st. During September, 32 briefly visited Bredon’s Hardwick and one was at Westwood Pool on 5th, total increased on the 6th with 55 through Bredon’s Hardwick, 33 through Clifton Pits, a juvenile at Throckmorton Lagoons and three at Westwood Pool, while a juvenile frequented Upton Warren on 7th. Staffs Spring passage is summarised on the left hand side of the table below, no birds lingering for more than a day. Return passage was quieter than most years, other than the remarkable passage of birds on September 6th. Spring passage began on April 20th with two at Belvide, 19 at Blithfield and one at Chasewater. The 21st saw eight at Chasewater while the 22nd brought six to Blithfield which increased to seven on the 23rd, reducing to two on the 24th. There were two at Uttoxeter Quarry on 25th, six at Blithfield on 26th with two there on 27th and one at Chasewater. On the 29th 20 were at Blithfield with only two the next day. May 30th saw three at Blithfield while the 5th had three at Belvide, two at Blithfield and singles at Gailey and Westport. Singles were at Blithfield and Chasewater on the 6th. There was a gap until 23rd when one was at Belvide, then three at Blithfield on 24th, one at Belvide on 28th and singles at Gailey on June 2nd and at Chasewater on 4th. Autumn return passage began with two adults at Belvide on August 4th then nothing until an adult at Belvide on 17th, one there on 20th, another at Blithfield on 28th and two on September 2nd. Then, a large passage of birds on 6th included 51 adults at Blithfield and 42 flying over Chasewater. The 7th saw only a juvenile at Chasewater and an adult and two juveniles at Gailey. Singles were then reported from Drayton Bassett Pits and Gailey on 8th, Chasewater on 9th, Blithfield on 10th, Belvide and Gailey on 13th and finally at Blithfield on the late date of November 3rd. W Mid Sightings involved a bird at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 23rd, two at Marsh

129 Lane NR on May 5th, one at Olton Mere on August 8th and two at Bartley Reservoir on September 6th. Common/Arctic Tern Worcs Bredon’s Hardwick held three briefly on April 28th, while 31 flew high south along the River Avon at Bredon’s Hardwick on September 7th. Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Warks The flock frequenting the feeders at the Brandon visitor’s centre had peaks of 55 on January 13th, 54 on August 31st and 53 on December 28th. Other flock counts included 75 on the edge of Stratford-upon-Avon on February 23rd and 100 at Shrewley on August 20th. Worcs No notable records received. Staffs 110 at Berry Hill on July 23rd was the largest count. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 55 birds in 14 of the transects and five of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central), Rive Rea (south of Wychall) and River Tame (west). High counts included at least 60 birds in Smethwick Hall Park on February 3rd and 80 on June 22nd, 60 at West Bromwich on February 14th and November 6th, about 50 at Marsh Lane NR on May 14th and Wolver - hampton on 28th, 43 in Walsall Arboretum on June 11th, 100 plus at Cannon Hill Park on 22nd and about 80 in Coundon Wedge on August 16th. Stock Dove Columba oenas Very common resident. Warks Nine territories were located in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp. Only 14 were logged on the DMC Kineton May count which was the third exceptionally low count in succession and the lowest in 21 years of counts, being 58% below average. Outside the breeding season there was one exceptionally large flock recorded, with at least 450 feeding in stubble at Wishaw on March 5th BLK. Other flocks of a hundred or more included 100 at Northend on January 7th, 100 at Dunnington on 20th (and into February), 130 flying west over Dosthill on 24th, and 110 at Fenny Compton on February 24th. Autumn flocks included a peak of 150 in stubble at Salford Priors GP on November 23rd and 100 at Chapel Ascote on 30th. Worcs Several pairs nested at Chapter Meadows and Grimley while up to four birds were noted at both Arrow Valley North and Bittell Reservoirs on a regular basis while small numbers were present at Upton Warren throughout the year where a maximum count of 18 was present on December 26th. Additional records comprised 12 at Hewell Grange on February 6th, 14 at Lenchford on February 4th, 120 at Throckmorton Landfill Site on September 28th, 28 at Wick on October 18th, 22 at Longdon Marsh on 20th and 20 Bittell Reservoirs on December 29th. Staffs Two pairs bred at Baggeridge CP and Iverley, one at Cowley, Doxey, Horton and Keele University; and birds were recorded at 28 other sites from mid April through June. Larger counts were; in January 29 at Acton, 25 at Beech, 16 at Belvide, 15 at National Memorial Arboretum and 22 at Whitemoor Haye; in February 12 at Lordsley GP, 22 at Whitemoor Haye and 24 at Winnington; in March 30 at Baggeridge CP, 17 at Lower Hatton, 90 at Oakley Folly and 12 at River Sow Meadows; in July 34 at Barton GP and 24 at Silverdale Colliery; in September 14 at Ingestre; in October 25 at Whitemoor Haye; in

130 November 16 at Belvide, 25 at Crossplains, 17 at Sideway, Stoke; 15 at River Sow Meadows and 13 at Waterfall; in December 12 at Captain’s Barn and 10 at Croxall NR. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water- courses across Birmingham recorded just two birds in two transects, both in Sutton Park (Keepers Pool and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Six territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, one more than last year and equal to the average over the last 17 years. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Berkswell, Bourneville, Cannon Hill Park, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Frankley Reservoir, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Lapal, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (three pairs may have bred), Pedmore, Ravenshaw, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Tettenhall, Tudor Grange Park (Solihull), Warley Woods, West Bromwich, West Smethwick Park, Westwood Heath and Wren’s Nest. A total of 45 birds were recorded at Marsh Lane NR in March, with 25 on August 25th. Other high counts included 28 birds at Berkswell on January 2nd and November 3rd, 13 at Clayhanger on January 12th, 14 at Bury’s Hill on March 31st and 13 at Dunstall Park on April 24th. Counts of at least eight birds came from Allesley Park, Cole Valley, Coundon Wedge, Elmdon Park and West Bromwich, whilst totals of seven migrants flew over Barr Beacon on October 28th and Smestow Valley on November 15th.

Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks 15 territories on 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot was almost back to the 2004 population (when 16) after three poor seasons. Flocks of up to 700 were widely reported across southern and central districts during both winters, with early year maxima including 1200 at Wormleighton on January 6th, 880 at Wasperton on 26th, 2160 at Eathorpe on January 28th, 1000 at Dunnington on February 10th and 1315 at Fenny Compton on February 24th. Many of these fed in fields of oilseed rape. Numbers were much lower in the north, with 600 roosting at Alvecote Wood on January 4th the largest concentration reported. Visible migration was evident across the county from the second week in October mainly to the south-west, and counts included 300 over Shustoke on October 18th and 250 on 25th, and 250 over Bush Hill, Flecknoe on 22nd. The build-up of winter migrants was illustrated at Salford Priors GP, where a flock in stubble fields built up from 700 on October 26th, to 1100 on November 2nd, 2000 on 23rd and a peak of 2500 on December 7th. At Fenny Compton, there was an influx of 3500 into stubblefields on November 6th, but this flock soon dispersed. Other substantial counts at this time included 950 at Wormleighton on November 16th, 800 at Shipston-on-Stour on 17th, and 2500 feeding in un-harvested wheat at Priors Hardwick on December 6th. An albino was consorting with normal birds in a flock at Compton Verney on December 20th. Worcs Notable counts made during the year comprised 600 at Westwood Pool on January 23rd, 1000 flew over Castlemorton Common on February 17th, 750 were at Wick on February 28th, while later in the year the latter site hosted 338 on October 18th, 400 on 22nd, 209 on November 22nd and 500 on December 8th while further records comprised 1000 over Upton Warren on November 10th, 1000 at in field on December 9th, 1000 at Pirton Pool on 11th, 3000 at Defford airfield on 11th and 1,500 were there on 30th. Staffs 18 pairs bred at Doxey. In the first winter period, larger flocks in January included: 500 at Ashford, 600 at Ingestre, 500 at The Clive Farm, 700 at both Whitleyford Bridge and Whitmore Bent Lane. In February there were 500 at Blithfield, 258 at Upper Hanyards, 200 at Weston Jones and 500 at Whitmore Bent Lane and in March 2000 roosted at Byrkley Park, 550 at Weston Jones and 200 at Woodhead. The largest summer flock was

131 250 at Whitmore Bent Lane on June 5th. Autumn passage was recorded between September 27th and November 25th with a total of 47,500 birds heading predominantly south (up from 37,400 in 2007). A late record of 900 heading SW at Belvide on December 27th in the first hour after dawn, is indicative of even later movements of birds, presumably affected by the cold winter. Last year’s record day count was beaten this year by another massive count of 9800 heading south over Black Bank between 07:00 and 08:30 on October 29th NDP. Date Site Count Direction Oct 9th Black Bank 300 south 7.15-8.30 14th Black Bank 372 south 7.45-8.30 17th Black Bank 4920 south 7.30-8.45 21st Berry Hill Fields 320 south Black Bank 3220 south 7.30-8.45 24th Black Bank 6300 south 8.10-8.50 25th Black Bank 567 south 7.50-9.10 27th Black Bank 2805 south 6.55-8.15 28th Westport Lake 435 190 west and 245 south 29th Black Bank 9800 south 7.00-8.35 Keele University 1400 SW in 30 minute span 30th Black Bank 2390 south 7.05-8.20 Swynnerton 1500 west 7.20-8.00 31st Black Bank 640 south Little Stoke 2000 west 07.00 to 07.30am Nov 8th Belvide Reservoir 400 several 100 moving NE 9th Belvide Reservoir 400 several 100 moving N/NE 19th Black Bank 3210 2930 south, 280 north 7.45-8.30 20th Black Bank 1400 south 7.45-8.25 21st Black Bank 630 south 7.45-8.25 22nd Black Bank 3900 south 7.45-8.35 Larger counts in the second winter period included, 200 in September at Cuckoo Bank; 2000 at Baggeridge CP and 600 at River Sow Meadows in October; in November there were 500 at Burston, 1500 at Coldmeece Pools and 200 at both Uttoxeter Quarry and Whitmore Bent Lane while in December 600 were at River Sow Meadows, 650 at Tixall Heath, 1000 at Whitemoor Haye and 300 at Whitmore Bent Lane. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 837 birds in all of the transects and watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Eleven territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot – equal to last year’s lowest total since monitoring began in 1992; the 17 year average is 15, whilst the rolling five year average has decreased from 18 in 1992-96 to 13 in 2004- 08. The highest late winter count was of about 400 birds at Berkswell on January 2nd, whilst a total of 214 birds were present in Allesley Park on August 30th.

Skywatch totals October November 18th 19th 25th 28th 29th 30th 31st 1st 12th 14th 15th Barr Beacon – – – 1840 475 – – – 1440 – – Marsh Lane NR 1000 100 700 3000 – 525 – – – – – Smestow Valley 587 780 1075 – – – 2860 1850 – 810 805

Away from the tabulated sites, visible migration included counts of at least 200 birds in Coundon Wedge on 10th October, Reedswood Park on 17th and Marsh Lane NR on 25th (in addition to the 700 flying over), 320 at Tettenhall on 27th and 250 at Clayhanger on

132 30th. Over 1,000 birds were noted at Kingswinford on December 29th, including one with usual head colouring, but mainly white body, flecked with light brown, with about 200 birds at Norton on 31st. An all-white bird was seen in Elkin Wood on April 11th.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks Four pairs on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot was twice the normal population. Nesting was again reported from a roof gutter at Maxstoke, which as before was subse - quently flooded out. Outside the breeding season, easily the largest flock reported was at Rookery Hall, Lawford Heath; where after an early year peak of 75 on February 19th, autumn numbers built up from 78 on October 27th to a maximum of 150 on December 14th. Other good-sized flocks included 33 at Fenny Compton on February 24th, 27 at Long Itchington on April 8th, 58 on a Cubbington farm on October 13th, 21 in a garden at Salford Priors on November 2nd and 21 at Coldcomfort Farm, Alcester on 14th. Worcs 65 at Lower Moor from September 1st to 11th was the only notable record received. Staffs A few more double-figure flocks than usual were reported this year; in January 28 were in the Biddulph Valley, in March 22 at Weston Jones – Kemsey Manor, in April 18 at Croxall, in May and June 12 at Berry Hill, in September 10 at Werrington, in October 12 at Dosthill and 20 at Werrington, in November 12 at Dosthill, in December 34 at Werrington and 14 at Weston Jones. W Mid No significant records were received. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half- kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 23 birds in 11 of the transects and six of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (east), River Rea (south of Wychall) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts included 21 birds at Smethwick Hall Park on February 3rd, 13 at Bradmore on November 14th and 15 at Marsh Lane NR on December 14th.

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 26th (73) to September 24th (72) 8-year average: April 22nd (–4 days) to September 22nd (–2 days) The first arrival was at Morton Bagot on April 26th, the last departure at Brandon and Atch Lench on September 14th. Warks About 24 singing males were located during the breeding season, which is the best total since 2005. Breeding pairs were located at: Alcester (two), Bidford-on-Avon, DMC Kineton, Flecknoe, Long Marston Camp, Print Wood, Salford Priors GP, Ufton Hill and Wolfhamcote. Further birds were also noted on odd dates at Abbots Salford, Bishop’s Hill, Broadwell, Dunnington, Far Longdon, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Henley GC, Radway, Ufton Fields, , Wootton Wawen and Wormleighton Res. The only report of possible breeding in the north of the county refers to a bird at Kingsbury on May 5th, with possibly the same singing on territory in the nearby Fisher’s Mill area from 11th- 20th. A bird was again reported from here in August. The first spring migrant was at Morton Bagot on April 26th and passage was observed at Salford Priors GP on June 1st when a total of five flew north. Late summer sightings away from breeding sites included singles at Draycote July 31st, Brandon on August 3rd, Arley on 22nd, Chesterton on 25th and Birchmoor on September 7th, with the last at Brandon on 14th.

133 Worcs Following one at Cropthorne on April 27th, regular breeding season records came from Castlemorton Common, three were noted at Coombegreen Common on June 15th, a male was singing at Hipton Hill in June, three males were at Hollybed Common on June 8th, up to four were at Lower Moor, up to three were at Throckmorton Lagoons where a pair were noted there with two juveniles until September 10th, while singles were noted singing at Hampton on May 7th, Holt on May 9th, Church Lench on May 11th to June 1st and one present at Kempsey on May 27th was joined by a second bird on 30th and 31st with one remaining until July 1st. Further records comprised singles at Wyre Piddle on June 2nd and Atch Lench on July 24th and September 14th, while one noted at Little Comberton on August 9th was the only record from this site where the species failed to breed for the first time in 33 years. Further August records comprised two at Grimley on 11th and one at Holt on 13th. Staffs The first arrival was on May 7th at Cannock Chase where up to two birds were seen until June 29th RCB, ESC, APat and another bird was present at Aqualate from May 8th until August 23rd PJor. One at Drayton Bassett Pits from May 10th-20th and one at Blithfield on June 1st GJM, REH were the only other records.

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor which has bred. Warks Singles visited gardens at Terry’s Green, Earlswood on January 26th YHe and in on February 20th RWSK, while a bird was noted at Brandon on both April 25th and October 21st BMCG. Finally, a bird was watched feeding on haws at Farnborough on October 19th PDo. Worcs An increasing number of records from the south-east quarter of the county comprised what was presumed to be the same roaming female being noted at Lower Moor on April 6th RAP, Hill on May 22nd RAP and again at Lower Moor on 23rd RAP. Further records comprised singles at Stoulton on May 10th PRh, Wyre Piddle on June 1st WFP, Abberton on 22nd WFP, while a male reported to have been present in the Fladbury area for six months was still present from September 1st to December 7th at least RAP. Just one record away from this area was of a male in a Hunnington garden from November 7th to 9th AH-H. Staffs One was at Ingestre on October 13th RCB, one over Fenton on July 7th PJon and another at Belvide on December 26th SNu. W Mid A pair bred in Sandwell Valley again HKi, where seven birds were noted in October per RSPB. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a bird along the River Tame (west) per SBo. Single birds were seen along Valley Parkway on January 16th BRP, in a garden near Coombeswood on February 17th and 24th NOa, and flying over Upper Gornal on August 19th HKi.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Long-term average: April 10th (72) to September 5th (70) 8-year average: April 4th (–6 days) to September 6th (+1 day) First arrival was on April 13th at aptly-named Cuckoo Bank while the last was seen at Arley on August 22nd. Warks A decline in both calling males and sites was recorded for the fourth year in

134 succession, with 65 males at 41 sites, which compares badly with the 2005 figure of 86 males at 53 sites. However the strong population at DMC Kineton somewhat bucked the trend, where the May total of 15 was the highest since 2004. Other good counts (including both sexes) included up to five at Brandon, and four at Maxstoke, Salford Priors GP and Shrewley. The only breeding record came from Grandborough, where a juvenile was being fed by a Yellow Wagtail on July 10th. The first spring report was of one calling at Grandborough on April 16th, followed by two birds at Lea Marston on 18th, and then daily reports from 21st. The last of very few late summer reports was of a bird at Arley on August 22nd. The hepatic female was again seen at Brandon by several observers during May and early June. Worcs Three were noted in the Wyre Forest from April 16th, while singles were at Castlemorton Common, Clifton and Eckington Meadows on April 20th, up to two at Stoke Bliss from 22nd to May 20th, singles at Lower Moor on April 23rd rising to four by May 11th, singles at Holt on April 25th and Upton Warren on 26th, three at Gwen Finch Wetland from 29th rising to four on June 10th and one at Westwood Pool on April 30th. Further records during May comprised two at British Camp on 3rd, singles at Tiddesley Wood on 4th, Ryall Pits on 5th, Hewell Grange on 8th, Clifton Pits on 15th, Dormston on 16th, Ryall Pits and two at Upton Warren on 17th, singles at Wick on 18th, Ankerdine Hill on 21st, Hartlebury Common on 22nd and Little Comberton on 30th. Further June records comprised singles at Kemspey, Rye Street and Wick on 2nd, two at Throckmorton Lagoons on 4th, one at Deerfold Wood, three at Hollybed Common and one at Little Comberton on 8th, two at Longdon Marsh on 10th and 23rd and singles at Upton Warren on 11th and Bittell Reservoirs on 20th. Single juveniles were noted at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 5th and August 8th and Lower Moor on August 8th. Staffs In keeping with national and regional declines, this bird does appear to be dropping in numbers because this year saw increased coverage as part of the BTO Atlas project.

Year 2005 2006 2007 2008 Sites with calling birds 60 49 51 48

The first bird arrived on April 13th at Cuckoo Bank with the second at Brocton Coppice not being seen for a further week. Thereafter, recorded almost daily until June 20th, after which one was seen sitting on a Nightjar in a tree at Springslade Lodge on July 25th FCG and the final bird, a juvenile being fed by Meadow Pipits at the Rifle Range on August 4th – the only juvenile seen all year. The highest count was at Cannock Chase where the most birds seen at any one time was five. W Mid A pair probably bred at Marsh Lane NR: at least one bird was recorded occasionally from April 25th to June 1st, and a juvenile was seen on July 13th-14th. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded just two birds in two transects, both in Longmoor Valley. Indeed, three birds were heard calling in Sutton Park during the spring. Single birds were noted at Chadwick End on May 6th, Heronfield on 7th and Grand Union Canal and Millisons Wood on 11th and Blythe Valley and Sandwell Valley on 29th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent, but much declined, resident. Warks Two pairs bred in boxes on the reserve at Brandon for the first time, rearing broods of four and two young. As a breeding bird it is now well distributed across eastern,

135 central and southern districts, with the highest density apparently in the south-east. Here no fewer than 13 breeding pairs were recorded in the Warwickshire section of SP45, at a density of about 1.7 pairs per tetrad. Elsewhere, proven breeding pairs were reported from: Brailes, Dunnington, Farnborough, Flecknoe, Frankton, Goldicote, Grandborough (three in area), Kenilworth, Preston-on-Stour, Princethorpe, Radway, Shrewley (two), Spernall, Wolvey and Wootton Wawen. The species is also expanding its range slowly in the county north of Coventry, and here breeding season records came from 13 sites. Worcs Pairs were present at Blakedown and Grimley throughout the summer, a pair bred at Wick fledging several young while another pair at a traditional nest site at Sherrifs Lench appeared not to have nested due to the conversion of their favoured barn. Further records during the breeding season received from Abberton, Comberton, Eckington Meadows, Feckenham, High Green, Kinsham Lake, Kinsham, Longdon Marsh, Naunton Beauchamp, Ryall and Upton Warren, Additional records from outside the breeding season were received from Aston Somerville, Bromsgrove, Comberton, Grimley, Hanbury, Hanbury Wharf, Huntsbridge, Kyre, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor, New End, , Perdiswell, Ryall Pits, Sheriffs Lench, Stanford Bridge, Stockton-on-Teme, Stoke Bliss, Sweet Green, Tilesford, Throckmorton, Upton Warren, Wick, Withy Wells and Wychbold. Staffs Breeding was confirmed from 39 sites (cf. 18 in 2007) – the species does appear to be doing well in the county. This year’s figures, as with 2006, were boosted by data supplied by the Staffordshire Barn Owl Group.

Year 2005 2006 2007 2008 Locations 62 96 75 146

W Mid At least one bird was present during the breeding season at Clayhanger. Single birds were noted at Coventry Airport on January 20th, near junction one of the M69 on 31st, Bartley Reservoir on March 26th and Tile Hill Station on April 19th, with two at Brueton Park on September 15th and singles at Marsh Lane NR on 25th and West Bromwich from December 1st-23rd.

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common resident. Warks There was a welcome increase in records this year with sightings coming from 60 sites across the county (cf. 38 in 2007), but this was certainly due to better coverage rather than any genuine increase in birds and most observers still regard this species as declining. Breeding was confirmed or suspected at: Bidford-on-Avon, Charlecote Park, Fenny Compton, Knightcote, Maxstoke (three locations), Salford Priors GP, Seeswood, Shustoke and Umberslade. Worcs A pair nested at Bodenham Arboretum while a pair probably bred at Clifton. Further breeding season records received from Abberton, Butlers Hill, Castlemorton Common, Clifton Pits, Coombegreen Common, Cropthorne, Grimley, Hollybed Common, Huntsbridge, Kinsham Lake, Kempsey, Kington, Lower Moor, Lower Westmancote, Malvern Link, Netherton, Shenstone, Sheriffs Lench, Strensham, Tanwood, Upton Warren and Wick. Additional records from outside the breeding season were received from Huntsbridge, Longdon Marsh, Lower Park Farm, Rous Lench, Ryall Pits, Stoke Bliss (first for several years), Throckmorton and Upper Ham. Staffs Widespread throughout the county, with breeding pairs reported from Edingale, Essington Quarry Pool, Gradbach, Keele University, Knotbury, Park Hall CP, Pasturefields

136 and Tittesworth. Breeding season sightings came from an additional 29 sites and a further 13 held birds in the winter. W Mid Birds bred at Berks - well Lane and Wad Barn Farm, and were present during the breeding season at Clayhanger, Dorridge, Marsh Lane NR, Norton and Westwood Heath. Single birds were noted in Smestow Valley during April and October, and at Eastern Green on April 3rd, Elkin Wood and Leys Farm on 11th, Little Owl at Shustoke, Steve Seal Sheepwash UP on August 21st, Long Knowle on September 15th, Barr Beacon on 19th, Wythall on November 16th and Lutley Wedge on December 1st.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Alderminster (nest box), Ladywalk (two), Maxstoke, Morton Bagot, (nest box), Ryton Wood and Tredington. This species is very well distributed throughout the county with reports from a total of 71 sites, including St Mary’s churchyard in the centre of Warwick. The substantial increase in records (cf. 54 in 2007) was as with the last species likely due to better recording rather than any real increase. Worcs Single pairs nested at Abberton (fledging two young), Bodenham Arboretum (fledging one young) and Lower Moor. Further records received from Abberton, Arrow Valley North, Bredon Hill, Chaddesley Woods, Eymore Wood, Grimley, Kinsham, Malvern Link, Monkwood, Naunton Beauchamp, Upton Snodsbury, Upton Warren, Throckmorton Lagoons. Staffs Breeding confirmed at Boggy Rough, Bromley Hurst, Cotwalton, Dunwood (one juvenile), Fairy Glen (three juveniles), Ingestre, Little Ferneyford (juvenile), Stable- ford (pair at nest site), Thor’s Cave (two pairs, one juvenile) and Tittesworth (nest with eggs). Reported from 89 sites in total (68 in 2007, 44 in 2006, 50 in 2005). W Mid Pairs bred at Barr Beacon and Clayhanger, with birds also noted during the breeding season at Bilston Cemetery, Elmdon Park, Saltwells Wood, Smestow Valley, Sneyd, Sutton Park and Wren’s Nest. Others were recorded at Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Long Lady Wood, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Moseley, Norton, Westwood Heath and Wollaston.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks A good series of records began with two roosting at a site in the Grandborough area from January 6th-February 28th, with one still present there on March 8th RCM et al.

137 In the same area, probably one of these birds was then present at Toft Farm Lakes from April 15th-22nd WJR. A further three unconfirmed reports came from this same general area during the autumn. Elsewhere in the county, a bird was roosting at a site in the Kingsbury area on November 12th and 16th JHa et al., with that or another at Ladywalk on 17th per SLC. A bird was roosting at Chesterton on December 18th JJB. Worcs One was noted at Naunton Beauchamp on April 12th GHP. Staffs Two or three pairs bred on Cannock Chase and juveniles were seen at two other sites. Up to five were present at Park Hall in both winter periods. One was recorded at Chasewater on January 3rd and February 1st and another at Malthouse Lane on August 8th. W Mid At least two juveniles were heard calling in Sutton Park on July 3rd ROr.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeding species. Warks A bird first seen in December 2007 was again hunting over rough grassland at Knightcote on January 3rd and 12th. Another was seen at the Frog Hall landfill site on January 22nd, while up to four were present at a regular roost at Priors Hardwick from February 24th-March 3rd. A bird at Grandborough on April 5th was the last of the first winter period. An early bird had returned to Priors Hardwick on September 4th, and there were two here by 27th, but there were no later sightings. Further reports of single birds came from Grandborough on October 7th, at nearby Toft Farm Lakes on 8th, Coton-Lea Marston area on 26th-27th, Flecknoe on November 1st (with one west over Bush Hill) and Draycote on 12th. A bird was hunting regularly in the Dosthill-Kingsbury area from November 16th-25th, one was flushed from a field near Dunchurch on December 17th, and there were singles regularly at Brandon from 17th-31st and at Salford Priors GP from 21st- 31st. The last bird was at a new site for this species. Worcs Two were present at Eckington Meadows from January 7th to March 18th with one still present on April 1st. Singles were also noted at Bishampton on January 24th, Tilesford on 27th, Clifton on May 10th, Bredon Hill on September 28th, Sheriff’s Lench on November 8th, Lower Park Farm on December 6th, Clifton Pits on 9th, Warndon on 14th, Rous Lench from 27th to 29th and The Rose Cottage on 31st. Staffs Two pairs were confirmed breeding and a third site was located where the outcome was unknown. In the first winter period one or two birds were seen at Boarsgrove, Bradnop, Chasewater, Doxey, Middle Hills, Oliver Hill, Swallow Moss Swineholes Wood and Warslow. The second winter period produced birds at Boarsgrove, Branston Gravel Pits, Chasewater, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Mermaid Inn, Middle Hills, Swainsmoor and Swallow Moss, the latter site producing the only count of more than two birds, with three on December 14th. W Mid Single birds were found at Bartley Reservoir on October 31st TMH and flying over Marsh Lane NR on November 2nd – the second record for the site, the first occurring in April 2005 SHare.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon to frequent, but very local summer resident, mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant. Long-term average: May 15th (65) to August 20th (47) 8-year average: May 6th (–9 days) to September 22nd (–2 days) First arrival at Hanchurch Woods on May 12th and last recorded sighting on July 25th on Cannock Chase.

138 Staffs After the range expansion to eight sites in 2007, this year’s cold and wet summer resulted in far fewer records and a very disappointing year, with observations from only three sites. The first arrival was on May 12th at Hanchurch Woods where three churring birds were noted during the summer. No survey data was submitted for Cannock Chase and casual records would suggest a minimum count of just 14 territories. One of last year’s new territories again held a churring bird. The last record was from Cannock Chase on July 25th.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 22nd (74) to September 27th (74) 8-year average: April 14th (–8 days) to October 2nd (+5 days) First arrival on April 10th at Napton Reservoir with no more recorded for over a week. Last noted at Napton Hill on October 7th. Warks No notable breeding counts were received, which is a pity as our breeding population may be declining. The first spring migrant appeared at Napton Res on the very early date of April 10th. No more were reported in the county until three were seen at Draycote on April 19th and one at Kingsbury on 20th, with the main passage commencing on 26th. On that date 120 were present at Draycote, with numbers increasing daily to 1000 on 29th, while on the 28th there were counts of 200 at Shustoke and 150 at Kingsbury. In May there were some large congregations at Draycote on cold wet days, including 3000 on 1st, 1500 on 17th, 1000 on 18th and 2-4000 on 27th. Shustoke also had some large counts, with up to 1600 present from May 25th-28th and 1100 on June 12th. Counts from other sites during May-June were more modest in size, but included 300 at Coton on May 17th, 250 at Salford Priors GP on 18th, 250 at Longbridge STW on 19th, 380 at Fenny Compton on June 14th, 500 feeding low in drizzle at Wasperton on 21st, and 220 at Alvecote on 26th. In July, 600 were feeding on hatching flies at Shustoke on July 11th, while 1500 were estimated at Draycote on 17th. Birds generally stayed much later into August than usual, with some high counts in the second and third weeks probably referring to migrants held up by adverse winds. In the Warwick area there were counts of 150 at New Waters on August 11th and 60 on 18th, while 80 flew west over Warwick Racecourse on 21st. Draycote held up to 300 from August 14th-16th. A trickle of migrants were seen almost daily throughout late August and up to September 7th, with the latest reports of two over Nuneaton on 8th and two at Draycote on 11th-12th. Subsequently, a late bird flew west over Napton Hill on October 7th. Worcs A few pairs bred successfully on the High Streets of both Broadway and Evesham and several pairs nested in St Johns, Worcester. The earliest records received were of one at Upton Warren on April 23rd, one at Lower Moor and two at Worcester on 26th and four at Bredon’s Hardwick on 27th, while larger numbers comprised 70 at Upton Warren on May 25th, 350 over Longdon Marsh on June 23rd. Later in the year, departing birds were represented by 38 at Evesham on August 18th, two at Grimley on 23rd, singles at Ryall Pits on September 4th and Lower Moor on 9th, three at Bittell Reservoirs on 10th and Upton Warren on 13th. Staffs The first arrivals were three Chasewater on April 21st, with numbers gradually increasing to three figures by 27th when 150 were present, then 500 there and at Belvide by the end of the month. Further arrivals appeared to take place throughout May, with 500 at Chasewater on 5th, 3000 at Belvide and 400 at Aqualate on 17th, 300 at Chasewater on

139 18th and 300 at Belvide on 24th. Even into June there were 500 at Belvide on 4th, 150 at Chasewater on 11th and 500 at Aqualate on 19th. Breeding sites were noted at a number of urban sites: Berry Hill (10 birds), Cannock (one), Ingestre (two), Longnor (one pair), Meir (six pairs), Perton (six), Sandyford (10 pairs), Stafford (one pair at Weston Road, several at Trentabanks), Stowe (six), Stretton (six), Uttoxeter (several pairs), and West End, Stoke (eight-ten pairs). The largest autumn accumulation was 100 at Doxey on July 26th. Passage was noted at Belvide with 55 passing through on August 16th and 100 through on both 17th and 20th. The last sighting was at Blithfield on September 12th. W Mid The only definite breeding record received involved birds in the Bearwood/ Harborne area. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 157 birds in 25 of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, River Cole (east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central). High counts included 200 birds at Marsh Lane NR on May 4th and 19th, and 250 on June 14th, at least 50 at Edgbaston Reservoir on May 4th, 60 at West Bromwich on 23rd, 60 at Reedswood Park on July 27th and 140 on August 9th, hundreds moving southwards over Harborne on August 5th, 600 over Lutley Wedge on 9th and 130 on 14th, and at least 50 at Finham on 12th and Dunstall Park on 13th.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Brandon, Broom, Charlecote Park, Compton Verney, Coombe Abbey, Frankton, Halford, Henley-in-Arden, Wasperton and Woolscott. Other breeding season sightings came from: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Bedworth, Bidford- on-Avon, Brownsover, Chessets Wood, Copt Green, Coton, Draycote, Earlswood, Hatton, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Marl- cliff, Napton Res, Newbold Comyn, Shrewley, Shuckburgh Park, Shustoke, Weddington, Whitacre Heath, Wootton Wawen and Wormleighton Res. The breeding population appears currently to be fairly stable with around 30-40 sites notified annually in recent years. Outside this period it was as usual much more widespread and records included autumn counts of five at Brandon and four at Draycote. Worcs One pair nested at Kingfisher at Brandon, Steve Valentine Bodenham Arboretum, a pair were present on Dowles Brook, a pair present at Kinsham Lake in April while a juvenile there on July 26th was presumably locally bred. Further breeding season records were received from Arley, Arrow Lake, Arrow Valley North, Bittell Reservoirs,

140 Bredon’s Hardwick, Clifton Pits, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Kyre Brook, Kyre Pool, Lower Moor, Ryall Pits, Stoke Bliss, Throckmorton Lagoons, Upton Warren and Wyre Forest. In addition to many of the aforementioned sites, out of breeding season records were also noted at Abberton, Hewell Grange, Longdon Marsh and Wick. Staffs Pairs bred at Balterley, Doxey and Onecote Grange Farm. Another pair was nesting at Eland Brook but deserted when the stream became poisoned. A juvenile at Belvide was probably the result of breeding there or nearby. With reports from 28 other sites in the summer months, this bird appears to be well established as a county breeder. Normally seen in ones or twos, three birds were recorded at Belvide, Chasewater, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Harpers Marsh, Tittesworth and Westport Lake. W Mid Breeding took place in Sandwell Valley. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of just three birds in three transects and two watercourses: River Cole (east) and River Rea (Cannon Hill). Birds were also seen during the breeding season at Haden Hill Park. Other record came from Babb’s Mill Lake, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Bumble Hole LNR, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Goscote, Grand Union Canal, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Meriden Park Pool, Olton Mere, Parks Hall Pool, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Stirchley and Sutton Park.

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster Very rare vagrant (1/10). Warks A bird was seen briefly over the railway at Town - send Lane, Long Lawford on June 10th DHa, and was also heard calling later in the vicinity DHa, JFCJ. On June 22nd pre- sumably the same bird was found sitting on roadside wires at Brandon GPR et al. about 8km further west along the railway, where although staying for just half an hour was nevertheless seen by many appreciative observers. This was a long overdue second record for the post-1974 county, with the first being of a pair shot at Red Hill, Binton in 1886. Staffs One at Doxey on May European Bee-eater at Brandon, John Judge 12th was seen briefly as it flew over calling CHaw. This is the first county record. W Mid A bird was watched hawking over Marsh Lane NR before drifting off towards the northeast at about 3.30pm on May 4th CHe, PJoh – the first record for the site and the first for the county since one at Minworth in 1955.

141 Hoopoe Upupa epops Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10).

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 7109611 Staffs One was present at Berry Hill on May 30th SJT.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1941.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 131291814 Warks One feeding on ants in a Bilton garden on September 6th KDS, was confirmed with a photograph. Worcs One present in an Inkberrow garden on September 14th VWa, CAi was followed by another at Lincomb on September 17th per HGr. Both birds were photographed.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Fairly common resident. Warks Four nesting pairs were located in 190 ha of Long Marston Camp and three pairs bred in the vicinity of Salford Priors GP. 17 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the highest count there in 21 years of recording. During the immediate post-breeding period in July when family parties were very noticeable, there were site maxima of 12 at Abbots Salford (on 12th), ten at Draycote and seven at Brandon. Otherwise groups of six at Wormleighton Res on January 6th and seven at Napton Hill on September 23rd were noteworthy. Worcs One pair nested at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged three young. Young were also noted at Clifton Pits on July 10th and an adult was accompanied by two juveniles in a Malvern Link garden on 25th and another adult was noted feeding two juveniles at Grimley on August 11th. Remains relatively common on the Malvern Hills and at Castlemorton and Hollybed Commons while further breeding season records were received from Arrow Valley North, Beacon Wood, Bittell Reservoirs, Butlers Hill, , Hewell Grange, Hurst Coppice, Ipsley Alders, Kyre Park, Upper Strensham and Wyre Forest. Staffs Juveniles were reported from 14 sites and this bird is clearly widespread and breeding throughout the county. The largest counts came from Baggeridge CP with six on March 18th and eight on August 15th. W Mid As usual, one pair bred on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Juveniles were seen at Aldridge, Brueton Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least two pairs bred) and Westwood Heath. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 16 birds in ten of the transects and four of the water- courses: Chinn Brook and Sutton Park (central, Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Amblecote, Berkswell, Bilston Cemetery, Blythe Valley CP, Bowmans Harbour, Bradmore, Bury’s Hill, Coombeswood, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Foxcote, Haden Hill Park, Ham Dingle, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Lutley, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Penn, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Walsall, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Woodgate Valley, Wordsley and most of the woodlands in the Coventry/Solihull area. Records outside of breeding season came from Coundon Wedge, Fens Pools, Harborne NR, The Leasowes,

142 Norton, Oakham, Park Lime Pits, Sedgley Beacon, Tettenhall, Tocil Wetlands, Willenhall, Winson Green and Wollaston.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Fairly common to common resident. Warks Counts of breeding pairs included three in Hampton Wood, seven in 190 ha at Long Marston Camp, five in Oakley Wood and four in the Wormleighton Res area. Outside the breeding season up to seven were noted on the reserves at both Brandon and Whitacre Heath. Worcs Two pairs bred successfully at Stoke Bliss and a juvenile was in Evesham in June while further breeding season records were received from Hill, Arrow Valley North, Bittell Reservoirs, Butlers Hill, Chase End Hill, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Holt, Hollybed Common, Ipsley Alders, Lickey Hills, Little Comberton, Malvern Link, Monk Wood, Shrawley Wood, Trench Wood, Upton Warren and Wyre Forest. Staffs Drumming was noted from January 1st until May 4th and again on December 27th at Belvide. Breeding was confirmed from 27 sites and many others held birds during the breeding season. High counts consisted of six at Tittesworth in February and May, and five at River Sow Meadows and Trentham Gardens in February, Hanchurch Woods in April and Bishops Wood in October. W Mid Two pairs bred on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the most for five years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 21 birds in 14 of the transects and six of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (east) and Sutton Park (central and Keepers Pool). Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Berkswell, Bilston Cemetery, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Bumble Hole LNR, Chadwick End, The Chuckery, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Ham Dingle, Kings Heath, Kingswinford, Lapal, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, Park Lime Pits, Ravenshaw, Reedswood Park, Rowley Regis, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Tettenhall, Victoria Park, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Wollaston and most of the woodlands in the Coventry/Solihull area. Also noted in Acock’s Green, Allesley Park, Amblecote, Bartley Reservoir, Bury’s Hill, Clayhanger, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Harborne, Hobbs Hole, King’s Heath Park, The Leasowes, Lutley, Merrions Wood, Moorcroft Wood, Norton, Oakham, Olton Mere, Penn, Rough Wood, Sedgley Beacon, Sheepwash UP, Small Heath, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Titford Pools, Windsor Fields, Woodgate Valley and Wordsley. A probable migrant bird flew over Marsh Lane NR on October 28th, being watched flying high from the northeast to southwest.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor Frequent to fairly common resident. Warks For the fourth year in succession there was a drop in reported sites, with 29 localities notified. Confirmed or suspected breeding pairs were present at: Brandon, Cawston Woods, Coombe Abbey (two), Hampton Wood, Packington Park (two) and Whitacre Heath NR; while birds were also noted at Baddesley Clinton, Charlecote, Clowes Wood (Earlswood), Coton, DMC Kineton, Dunnington, Kenilworth, Ladywalk, Middleton Hall, Radway and Snitterfield during the spring and summer. Autumn and winter reports came from: Alvecote, Chapel Ascote, Fisher’s Mill, Grandborough, Guy’s Cliffe, Nuneaton

143 Common, Pillerton Priors, Ragley Park, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool, Shustoke and Walton Hall. Worcs At least one pair was present at Bittell Reservoirs during April, two were calling from separate locations at Pound Green Common on April 9th, a pair were present at Oakley Pool during May and up to four birds were noted on a regular basis along the Dowles Brook throughout the year. Singles were noted at Kemerton from January 30th to February 3rd, on 14th, Stoke Bliss on 19th, Arrow Valley North on 28th and March 24th. Later in the year singles were noted at Churchill and Upton Warren on July 2nd, Bittell Reservoirs on September 10th, Larford on 26th, Crossway Green on 28th, Upton Warren on October 8th and two were at the latter site on November 13th. Staffs This year, 37 sightings from 25 sites shows little change from last (36 sightings from 19), however there was no confirmed breeding. Sites holding birds were Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Belvide, Boggy Rough, Brackenhurst, Byrkley Park, Carvel Wood, Cheadle, Chillington, Consall CP, Coombes Valley, Endon, Forest Banks, Froghall, Gailey, Huntley Wood, Jackson’s Bank, Loynton Moss, River Sow Meadows, Scotch Hill, Tixall Wide, Uttoxeter Quarry, Whittington SF and Yarnfield. W Mid A pair possibly bred near Marsh Lane NR, where there were regular April occurrences and late July to mid August sightings. One bird was recorded along the River Cole (south) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Two birds were seen in Walsall Arboretum on February 11th and one on May 7th. Presumably the same bird was seen at Brueton Park on three dates from March 9th-27th. Single birds were also seen in Lutley Wedge on April 3rd, Clayhanger on June 8th, a Walsall garden on July 6th, Balsall Common on November 5th, Sheepwash UP on 21st, Norton on December 19th and Bourneville Park and Longbridge on 20th. 2006 Addendum W Mid A pair was watched feeding young in the nest at Minworth STW on June 28th; the young fledged a week later.

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus Rare passage migrant (3/10). The steady decline continues and so do the chances of catching up with this species in our area.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 44222 Not recorded in 2008.

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred (5/10). Worcs A juvenile at Larford on September 24th and 25th per SBl et al., was the first county record since 2000.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 11 10 11 19 23

144 Warks A single bird was seen at Whatcote on January 3rd TRP. Worcs Hot on the heels of the Red-backed Shrike above, a first-winter frequented Bredicot from September 30th to October 9th PWi et al. Staffs Last year’s bird in the Sherbrook Valley was relocated on January 25th ESC and remained until April 4th but was wide ranging and elusive during its stay. Another was seen in the Swallow Moss/Revidge area on February 9th-10th many observers then presumably the same bird re-appeared at Blackshaw Moor on April 17th JDS. In the autumn, a bird was seen on the Chase at the Rifle Range and Sherbrook Valley from October 17th-22nd many observers and another was at Park Hall CP on November 18th-19th DGoo.

Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius Fairly common to common resident. Warks Breeding records included two pairs at Long Marston Camp and five in Oakley Wood. Outside the breeding season the largest numbers reported involved a maximum of ten at Brandon in March-April and September, and ten in the Toft Farm Lakes area on October 14th. Other counts included seven at Eathorpe on February 27th, six at Compton Verney on November 29th, and seven at Wormleighton Res on December 5th. Worcs Two young seen at Upton Warren on July 19th was the only record received. Staffs Confirmed breeding of this widespread bird came from Hanchurch Woods, Hill Chorlton, Ingestre, Keele University, Kinver Edge and Windy Harbour. The highest counts were eight at Belvide on October 2nd and 10 at Apedale CP on 19th. The only evidence of migration was a single bird flying high to SE over Black Bank on September 25th. W Mid One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 29 birds in 15 of the transects and ten of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central and east), River Rea (Cannon Hill), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Acock’s Green, Berkswell, Buckpool, Dorridge Park, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Frankley Reservoir, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR, Meriden (“more common than a few years ago”), Pedmore, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, West Brom- wich, Westwood Heath, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley. Others were noted at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Barr Beacon, Bartley Reservoir, Blackheath, Blythe Valley, Bournville Park, Bury’s Hill, Clayhanger Common, Coombeswood, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Goscote, Harborne, Harborne NR, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, The Leasowes, Norton (eleven counted on December 29th), Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Stirchley, Tettenhall, Warley Woods, Winson Green and Wordsley.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Warks At least 50 were counted in the traditional roost in willows at Toft Shallows, Draycote on January 31st. Other counts of around 15-21 came from: Bearley, Brandon, Cubbington, Dosthill, Earlswood, Edstone, Farnborough, Grandborough, Henley GC, Salford Priors GP, Ufton Tip, Whittleford Park and Wormleighton Res, and covering most months.

145 Worcs Counts received comprised 22 at Upton Warren on January 23rd, 20 at Bret - forton on February 16th, 12 at Grimley on 28th, 25 at Malvern Link on November 29th, 15 at Wick on December 17th. Staffs Seven pairs bred at Doxey (cf. 10 in 2006-7, six in 2005). Large flocks throughout the year at Berry Hill peaked at 48 on April 8th and there were 50 at Penn Common on May 3rd and 40 roosted at Doxey on September 4th. W Mid The only confirmed breeding record was of a pair nesting in Birmingham City Football Club car park. Six territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year, but slightly down on the average of seven over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 386 birds in 66 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts included 50 birds at Kingswinford on January 9th, 90 in Goscote Valley on 16th, 185 at Olton Mere on 18th and 143 on December 19th, and 50 at West Bromwich on January 21st. A leucistic bird continued to be noted in the Halesowen area.

Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks At least 120 pairs were estimated to have bred in the Upper Shuckburgh area, but few other breeding records were received. Large flocks recorded during the year included 800 attending a roost at Knightcote on January 3rd, with 500 counted there on November 8th; 400 at Morton Bagot on July 20th, 326 flying to roost with Rooks at Middleton on November 14th, 500 at Crimscote on 17th, 600 at Salford Priors GP on 23rd and a peak of 900 feeding in stubble at Fenny Compton on December 26th. Smaller flocks of around 150-300 were also reported from: Admington, Aston Cantlow, Chesterton, Dunnington, Farnborough Park, Ilmington Downs, Newbold Comyn, Priors Hardwick, Umberslade, Wilmcote and Wormleighton. Worcs One pair nested at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged four young while notable flocks comprised 100 at Wick on January 7th, 120 at Kinsham Lake on June 26th, 1,500 at Throckmorton Landfill Site on July 20th, 200 at Stoke Bliss on August 4th, 60 at Upton Warren on October 3rd, 290 at Broadway on 10th, 400 at Bittell Reservoirs on November 2nd and 260 at Grimley on 16th. Staffs By far the largest group was 1200 at Park Hall CP on December 17th while 600 roosted at Copmere at the year’s start and 400 at the year’s end. Other roosts included 610 at Belvide on July 30th, with 410 on August 9th and 500 at River Sow Meadows on September 4th. Large counts were 400 at Beech on January 27th, 250 at Orgreave on February 17th, 227 at Cowley on 23rd, 300 at Stableford on March 4th, 300 at Tixall on 5th, 250 at Tittesworth in November, 300 at Stourton on November 8th, 250 at Hanchurch Hills on December 21st and 450 passing over Park Hall CP on 24th. A rare observation of visible migration comprised five birds south over Black Bank on October 25th. W Mid One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 31 birds in nine of the transects and four of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, River Cole (east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Chadwick End,

146 Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dudley Wood, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Lapal, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Smethwick Hall Park, The Spinney, Walsall Arboretum, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley. Also noted at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Barr Beacon, Bury’s Hill, Clayhanger, Cornets End, Foxcote, Hampton in Arden, Harborne NR, King’s Heath, Lutley, Minworth STW, Norton, Olton Mere, Pedmore, Sheepwash UP, Tettenhall, Walsall and Warrens Hall LNR. High counts included 320 birds at Olton Mere on January 18th and 350 on December 19th, at least 100 at Dunstall Park on February 15th and about 150 on July 19th, 148 at Wollaston on February 16th, 100 at Norton on September 9th, 120 at Marsh Lane NR on October 25th and 270 at Berkswell on November 3rd.

Nordic Jackdaw Corvus monedula monedula Staffs Birds showing good characteristics were reported as follows: the three birds at Belvide from last year remained until January 12th with one hanging on until 22nd SNut, RSwi. One was seen at Spath on January 20th and was probably the same bird at Uttoxeter Quarry on March 2nd NDP. Two were present at Swynnerton landfill on January 26th-27th NDP, another at Beech also on 27th NDP and one at Gailey Reservoir on February 23rd SAR. This sub-species is distinguished in the field by a prominent white neck collar and grey head. It breeds in Scandinavia and migrates south for the winter, some venturing over to the UK. The only previous Staffordshire record was at Newborough in 1987, although it is likely to be overlooked and probably winters in the county in small numbers. W Mid A bird showing characteristics of this race was noted at Marsh Lane NR from January 19th to April 20th DJS, where it was seen mating with a British race bird on March 28th per NPB. Another was noted in Smestow Valley on January 19th and 26th KMC, with one reported at Stubbers Green on March 2nd and two on 8th.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Very common or abundant resident. Warks Rookery counts included 30 nests at Corley Ash, 26 at two sites in Maxstoke, 36 in Mill Plantation at Middleton Hall, 25 at Pailton, 47 at Wormleighton Res (cf. 37 in 2007 and 21 in 2006), about 70 in Long Itchington village, and 25 at Long Marston Camp. Six nests at Newbold Comyn were new there. Among the larger reported flocks were 400 roosting with other corvids at Knightcote on January 3rd, 500 at Grandborough on July 5th, 600 roosting at Lighthorne Rough on September 25th, 650 at Upper Radbourn on October 25th, 400 at Wormleighton on December 6th, 700 in stubble at Fenny Compton on 10th and 26th, and 600 feeding in a maize game cover at Chesterton on 18th. Flocks of around 2-350 were also reported from: Admington, Charlecote, Dunnington, Farnborough, Ilmington Downs, Marton, Monwode Lea, Morton Bagot, Pillerton Priors, Poolfields, Radway, Salford Priors GP and Upper Shuckburgh. Worcs 24 nests were counted at Hewell Grange on April 3rd. The only count received outside the breeding season was of 159 at Wick on January 7th. Staffs Rookery counts this year (nests in brackets) came from Belvide (eight), Church Eaton (seven), Coppenhall (11), Derrington (88), Gnosall (18), Ingestre (25) and Seighford Farm (18). Larger counts comprised 100 at Derrington all year, 200 at Keele – Yew Tree Farm on January 23rd, 300 at Stableford on March 4th, 120 at Seighford Farm on 25th, 400 at Baldwins Gate on January 26th, 320 roosting at Belvide on July 30th with 120 there on

147 August 9th and September 18th, 250 at Broad Meadow – Tamworth in November- December, 141 at Hill Chorlton on December 2nd, 200 at Ilam on December 2nd and 170 at Maer Hills on January 5th. W Mid The only details received of occupied rookeries were at Aldridge (18 and four nests in separate locations), Blackheath, Cradley Heath, Dunstall Park (at least six nests), Harvest Hill (35 nests) and Potters Green (eight nests). A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded 18 birds in one transect along the River Tame (west). High counts included at least 30 birds at Wordsley on March 1st and Allesley Park on August 30th, 35 at Dunstall Park on June 28th and July 9th, and about 100 at Norton on September 12th, Reedswood Park on October 18th and Marsh Lane NR on 24th. Smaller numbers were noted at Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bury’s Hill, Coundon Wedge, Dudley Wood, Foxcote, Lutley Wedge, Lye, Minworth STW, Mushroom Green, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Norton, Pedmore, Rowley Regis, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smethwick Hall Park, Stubbers Green, Tettenhall, West Bromwich and Westwood Heath.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone Abundant resident. Warks Four pairs bred in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp. Over 100 were present at Salford Priors GP throughout the autumn months, peaking at 150 on November 9th. Other substantial counts included 135 at Darlingscott on February 23rd and 270 feeding in stubble at Fenny Compton on November 27th. Worcs A flock of mixed Corvids, predominantly Carrion Crows and Western Jackdaws were estimated at 3750 at Throckmorton Landfill in late June and in to July, with 1500 of these being Jackdaws, 1850 Carrion Crows and 400 Rooks. Staffs Three pairs bred at Doxey. The largest count was 200 at Brancote Sewage Farm on January 5th, with 114 at Maer Hills on 5th, 120 at Swyn- nerton Landfill on February 2nd, 130 at Beffcote on 10th, 160 at Gayton on 26th, 100 at Uttoxeter Quarry May 11th- 16th, 122 at Hartley Green on July 28th, 100 at Berry Hill on September 19th, 109 at Hales on December 19th and 112 at Hanchurch Hills on 21st. W Mid Five territories were Carrion Crow at Draycote, Steve Seal noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, two more than last year and the most for eight years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 471 birds in 66 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to

148 Bracebridge). High counts included 104 birds at Olton Mere on January 18th, 50 at Highgate on September 5th, 150 on November 3rd and 80 on December 19th, at least 40 at Smethwick Hall Park on February 3rd, 45 at Druid’s Heath on 5th, 72 in Sutton Park on 24th and 44 on May 11th, 70 at Bury’s Hill on March 31st, 50 around Park Lime Pits on November 1st and 60 at Berkswell on 3rd.

Common Raven Corvus corax Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, resident. Warks Breeding was proved at: Avon Dassett, Haseley, Long Itchington (where the young died in the nest during a cold spell), Packington, Preston-on-Stour, Priors Hardwick, Ragley Park, Shuckburgh Hills, Spernall, Studley and Upton. Breeding was though probable at 14 other sites, including Coombe Abbey, Fillongley and Hartshill. The largest congregation was a party of 13 near Bidford-on-Avon on August 6th JRW, with the next best of nine flying over Dunsmore Heath on September 21st. Birds are now being reported from throughout the county including relatively open districts such as the Alvecote and Kingsbury areas, and over the suburbs of Nuneaton, Rugby and other towns. Worcs A pair was present at the north end of the Malvern Hills during the breeding season while a pair also bred at Wood Norton. No doubt many more pairs nested across the county in view of the reports of between two and six birds at the following locations: Arley, Arrow Valley North, Battenhall, Bevere, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon’s Hardwick, Bredon Hill, British Camp, Broadway, Castlemorton Common, Chase End Hill, Clifton Hill, Croome Perry Wood, Evesham, Eymore Wood, Grafton Wood, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Hallow, Hewell Grange, Hinton on the Green, Holt, Hollybed Common, Kinsham Lake, Kempsey, Kyre Park, Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Lower Park Farm, Malvern Link, Monk Wood, North Hill, Old Hills, Old Storridge, Perry Wood, Pershore, Rous Lench, Sallings Common, Shrawley Wood, Stoke Bliss, Stoke Hill, Trimpley Reservoir, Walton Hill, Westwood Pool, , Wood Norton, the Wyre Forest and Wyre Piddle. Larger counts comprised 20 at Eldersfield on March 24th, seven at Abberton on July 20th, eight at Upton Warren on September 24th, 20 at Throckmorton Landfill Site on 28th, 28 at Worcestershire Beacon on October 11th, 25 at Throckmorton Landfill Site on 12th and 10 at the latter site on 26th. Staffs 27 breeding locations were reported this year (cf. 27-29 in 2007, 14-15 in 2006) and the only double-figure counts were 14 around Ingestre on August 6th, 12 at Downs Banks on November 1st, 10 at Compact Products Pool (Cheadle) on 25th and 10 at Keele University on December 23rd. W Mid A pair bred at Barr Beacon (the first confirmed nesting within the county) and another probably bred in Berkswell Park. Also, for the second successive year, a pair bred (fledging five young) five kilometres west of Wolverhampton and less than ten metres into Staffordshire – birds were regularly seen in Smestow Valley throughout the year, with five on June 15th, at least nine counted on October 31st, four plus on November 1st and five on 15th. Birds were noted on 21 dates (possibly under-recorded) at Marsh Lane NR (cf. 18 in 2007, 33 in 2006 and 29 in 2005), including four on February 26th and March 21st, and a record six (perhaps a family party) on July 4th. Sightings in the Dunstall Park area included two birds displaying on January 5th, one on April 7th, three on June 15th, one on September 6th, two on October 18th and one on 26th. One or two birds were seen at Wollaston on January 29th, Lutley Wedge occasionally from February to May and August to November, Berkswell on March 2nd, April 14th and July 14th, and November 3rd, Pelsall North Common on March 6th, Frankley Reservoir on 22nd, Fens Pools on 25th and

149 Wren’s Nest on 27th, April 2nd and 26th, and regularly from November 4th-18th. During April, there was one bird at Saltley on 4th, four over Turner’s Hill on 6th, and one in Blythe Valley on 18th and September 17th, two on 21st, October 19th and December 8th, 21st and 28th, whilst the only other breeding season record concerned two birds over Cheswick Green on July 13th. Sightings later in the year involved two birds at Box Trees on August 4th, five at Hampton in Arden on 25th, two in Sutton Park on September 8th and three on 18th, two over Stubbers Green on 23rd, two at Solihull Riding Club on 25th, one over Dorridge on 28th, one at West Bromwich on October 1st, four over Clayhanger on 30th, two at Wythall on November 16th, singles one near Park Lime Pits and at Westwood Heath on 22nd, two over Warrens Hall LNR on December 3rd and singles at Harborne on 7th, Monkspath on 21st, Knowle on 28th and Norton on 29th-30th.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Very common resident and winter visitor. Warks Breeding territory counts included: three on the reserve at Brandon, eight in hawthorn scrub at Fenny Compton along 1.5 km of the Oxford Canal (cf. seven in 2007), three in the deciduous Itchington Holt, 15 in the 190 ha Long Marston Camp, and four at Ufton Fields. Only ten were logged at DMC Kineton which is well below the recent average (cf. 23 in 2007). The best autumn count was of 80 in two groups at Arley Wood on October 6th, while other notable counts included a maximum of 17 at Napton Hill on September 23rd, 25 at Farnborough Park on October 3rd, and a peak of up to 21 at Shustoke from 14th-16th, and again on November 6th. Worcs A pair bred at Lower Moor raising four young while one was at Kyre Park in July and a family party was noted at Upton Warren in August. Birds were also noted at Arrow Valley, Beacon Wood, Beoley, Bittell Reservoirs, Diglis, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Holt, Ipsley Alders, Lickey Hills, Lion Wood, Lower Wick and the Wyre Forest. Staffs The only double figure counts in the first winter period were 20 at Beech and 35 at Hanchurch Woods in January. Breeding reports came from Biddulph Grange, Blithfield, Chapel Chorlton, The Cloud, Consall CP, Copmere, Croxden, Dimmingsdale, Downs Banks, Gib Torr (11-13 pairs), Greenway Bank CP, Hales Hall Pool, Hanchurch Woods (eight+ pairs), Hill Chorlton, Hulme End, Ingestre, Maer Hills, Park Hall CP, Silverdale Colliery, Stretton, Weston Jones and Westport Lake. Some good counts in the second winter period included, in September 20 at Belvide and 10 at Tittesworth, in October 11 at Bishops Wood and in November 28 at Bishop’s Wood, 30 at Cannock Chase – Sherbrook Valley, 52 at Hanchurch Woods and 20 at Park Hall CP. W Mid Just one territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared a record- equalling five last year and the average of two over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of five birds in four of the transects and four of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Merritts Brook and Sutton Park (central and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present during the breeding season at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Brueton Park (four birds in May), Bumble Hole, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least two pairs), North Warwickshire Golf Course, Pedmore, Ravenshaw, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Victoria Park, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Woodgate Valley. An influx was noted in Sutton Park in October, with 20 birds in one small area on 6th. Other high counts included eight at Wren’s Nest on October 10th and seven at Cornets End on November 3rd. Smaller numbers were also

150 noted at Amblecote, Barr Beacon, Blackheath, Buckpool, Bury’s Hill, Cannon Hill Park, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Grange Wood, Hampton in Arden, Harborne, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, King’s Heath, Lutley Wedge, Malvern Park, Netherton, Norton, Ocker Hill, Olton Mere, Priory Park, Reedswood Park, Sheepwash UP, Shirley, Tettenhall, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum and Wren’s Nest.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. A welcome doubling in numbers of this attractive species, aided by the spell of mild winters, has been accompanied by a number of breeding attempts.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 24 37 30 40 83 Warks In the wood where breeding occurred in 2005, a singing male was located on May 31st JJB. Unfortunately it could not be found on subsequent dates. At least five over- wintering birds remained into the first period from 2007. The two birds at Alvecote continued to entertain visitors up to March 6th, with at least one remaining until 13th AAr, RLS et al. Two, a female and probable male, were seen in a garden at Guy’s Cliffe on January 1st, with the female seen again on 5th CRS; while at Earlswood, the male was seen again in New Fallings Coppice on January 16th ARD. A good number of autumn reports began with an early bird at Earlswood Moathouse NR on September 23rd MPG. Subse- quent singles were seen in a Rugby garden on November 3rd RCM, at Alvecote on 16th AAr, RLS, and at Hams Hall sewage outfall from December 27th-31st SMH et al. Worcs Up to three re - mained at Brake Mill Plan - tation until January 12th many observers, while singles were at Malvern Wells from November 30th to December Firecrest at Alvecote, Steve Seal 6th PHo et al., and one at Norgrove Court on December 27th DJa. Staffs Last years bird at Hanchurch Woods from December 1st remained until January 12th and the other two wintering birds at Alvecote Pools, Warks regularly strayed over the county border during their stay. One was seen on Cannock Chase – Brindley Heath on March 14th LWri, another at Upper Tean on 26th RPow, then autumn birds at Blithfield on October 5th-6th GJM and Cannock Chase – White House on 17th RCB. W Mid Single birds were noted at Reedswood Park on January 10th EOs and Lutley Wedge on 19th CRou, whilst a female was photographed at Meriden on November 26th and 28th ARD.

151 Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Abundant resident. Warks It was a better breeding season, with 162 young fledging from 22 nest boxes at Brandon (cf. 124 from 20 in 2007) and 73 fledging from 11 at Ladywalk (cf. 75 from 13 in 2007). Breeding season territory counts included 40 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp and 16 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot. The count of 68 on the DMC Kineton May census was, although less than the 80 of 2007, still almost 65% above the average for the last 20 years. Out of the breeding season flocks of around 25-35 were reported from about 19 sites during the year, while larger counts included 95 estimated in the Earlswood Lakes area on February 8th and a flock of 45 at Farnborough Park on October 3rd. Worcs Seventeen pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledging 137 young. Very few records received from elsewhere, although regularly recorded at Diglis, Grimley, Shrawley Wood, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool and Wick. Staffs Fourteen pairs bred at Doxey (18 in 2007, 13 in 2006, 10 in 2005). A bird ringed P976769 at Rode Heath, Eaton, Congleton on August 14th 2005 remained there until November 21st 2007 at least, but was found surprisingly by the ringing group at Tittes - worth on July 1st. Larger flocks comprised 35 at Hem Heath Wood on January 12th, 20 at Baggeridge CP on February 3rd, 23 at Derrington on 9th, 25 at Stoke – Acreswood Fields on May 9th and 43 at West End, Stoke on August 21st. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 18 territories were recorded, compared to 19 last year and the average of 17 over the last 17 years. About 13-14 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR (cf. circa 13 in 2007). A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 278 birds in 64 transects and all watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts during the first winter period included 35 birds in Coundon Wedge on February 16th and Elmdon Park on March 24th, and 20 between Park Lime Pits and Riddian Bridge on 29th. Later in the year, a party of 30 birds at Temple Balsall on July 17th was the observer’s biggest for several years, whilst 29 were counted in Coundon Wedge on August 23rd and up to 60 at Norton on December 29th and 30th. Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks Counts of breeding territories included 29 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp and nine in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot, with the latter being the lowest count there since 2004. The total of 42 logged at DMC Kineton was also down (cf. 55 in 2007) but was still 48% above the average of the previous 20 years. Counts of occupied nest boxes at two reserves also followed this trend, with 20 producing 97 young at Brandon (cf. 141 from 23 in 2007) and 15 producing 80 young at Ladywalk (cf. 113 from 22 in 2007). Outside the breeding season counts of up to 25 were reported from several parts of the county, with larger totals of 28 at Wellesbourne Wood on January 21st, 35 at Alcester Heath on 27th, 32 in the Earlswood area on February 8th and 32 at Brandon on September 28th. Worcs Eleven pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledging 69 young. Very few records received from elsewhere, although regularly recorded at Diglis, Grimley, Shrawley Wood, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool and Wick.

152 Staffs Eight pairs bred at Doxey, down considerably from 14 in 2007 and nine in 2005- 6. There were a good number of double-figure flocks reported including 12 at Belvide on January 6th, 20 at Hem Heath Wood on 12th, 11 at Downs Bank on 26th, 11 at Doxey January through April, 15 at Greenway Bank on February 11th, 10 at Weston-on-Trent on 28th, 21 at Baggeridge CP on March 18th, 14 at Derrington on April 12th, 14 at Doxey on September 14th and 12 at Baggeridge CP on December 6th. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 31 territories were recorded, compared to 29 last year and the average of 22 over the last 17 years. About 13 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, the same as last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 308 birds in 68 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts included 24 birds in Coundon Wedge on March 15th and 27 on December 20th, 20 in Elmdon Park on March 24th and about 70 at Norton on December 29th.

Coal Tit Periparus ater Common to very common resident and irruptive winter visitor. Warks Amongst the few breeding notices submitted were six territories located at Long Marston Camp. Outside the breeding season there were flocks of 30 in Thickthorn Wood on September 3rd and 30 in Arley Wood on 29th. Worcs Four pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledging 43 young and a newly fledged group of eight were noted at Butlers Hill on June 17th while the species maintained its resident status at Arrow Valley Lake, Arrow Valley North, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon Hill, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Kinsham Lake, Shrawley Wood, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool and the Wyre Forest. Further records comprised singles in a Malvern Link garden on January 4th and 13th with two there on 19th, singles at Lion Wood on March 3rd, Eardiston on May 29th and Kyre Park on July 31st, two in both an Evesham garden and a Malvern Link garden on October 10th, two at Little Comberton on 12th and one at Wick on 18th. During a survey across Worcester City in October, birds were recorded at 18 separate locations, highlighting the fact that this species is readily encountered in urban areas. Finally, five were noted at Chase End Hill on December 6th. Staffs Several double-figure counts would suggest a good breeding season. There were 14 at Doxey on January 9th, 12 at Hem Heath Wood on 12th, 10 at Abraham’s Valley on March 25th, 12 at Bishop’s Wood on April 6th, 20 at Hanchurch Woods on June 23rd rising to an impressive 70 by August 26th, 11 at Maer hills on July 8th, 10 at Park Hall CP on September 8th, 40 at Dimmingsdale on September 13th where 50 were ringed between October 3rd-4th, 17 at Bishop’s Wood on 12th and 20 in the Sherbrook Valley on November 8th. W Mid Three territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to last year’s record four and the average of two over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 13 birds in ten of the transects and four of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Cole (south) and Sutton Park (central and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Audnam, Berkswell, Bourneville, Chadwick End, The Chuckery, Dorridge Park, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Haden Hill Park, Ham Dingle, Hawne Park, Knowle, Lightwoods Park, Malvern Park, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Priory Park,

153 Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Wordsley. Others were noted at Acock’s Green, Allesley Park, Bradmore, Bury’s Hill, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Grange Wood, Harborne, King’s Heath, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Netherton, Norton, Reedswood Park, Sedgley Beacon, Selly Oak, Stevens Park, Stirchley, Tettenhall, Warstock, Windmill Lakes, Windsor Fields and Wollaston. A total of 19 birds were counted at Norton on December 29th.

Willow Tit Poecile montana Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (two), Bunkers Hill Wood, Churchover (two), Fenny Compton (five), Kingsbury WP, Lighthorne Pools, Woolscott and Worm - leighton Res (three). Reports also came during the year from: Alvecote, Avon Dassett, Baddesley Common, Bermuda, Broadwell, Calcutt, Camp Hill (Nuneaton), Cathiron, Cawston Woods, Coton, the Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill area, Draycote, Dunchurch, Eathorpe, Edge Hill, Farnborough (two sites), Fulbrook, Griff, Hampton Wood, Hawkesbury, Hill - morton, Hodnell, Judkins Quarry, Ladywalk, Lea Marston, Middleton Hall, Moreton Morrell, Napton Hill, Polesworth, Rugby, Shustoke, Ufton Fields, Weddington, Whitacre Heath NR, Whittleford Park and Wolvey. Two at Chessetts Wood on November 15th was the only report from the west side of the county. The welcome rise in featured sites (47 compared to 29 in 2007) was due mainly to better coverage rather than any real improve - ment in the species fortunes. Worcs One was noted at Blackroot Pool, Kyre on March 7th and April 8th RMas, and at Birchen Coppice on June 29th RMas. Staffs Willow Tit continues to be more widespread than Marsh Tit. Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate (one+), Belvide (one-two), Clay Mills (one), Doxey (one), Strams - hall (one), Westport Lake (two) and Windy Harbour. Birds were also present in the breed- ing season at Apedale CP, Baldwins Gate, Banktop Wood, Blithfield (two pairs), Boggy Rough, Burton-on-Trent, Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Croxden Quarry, Derrington, Draycott-in-the-Clay, Enville, Gnosall, Greenway Bank/Knypersley Reservoir, Hill Chorlton, Lordsley GP, Maer Hills, Park Hall CP (three), River Sow Meadows, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth, Tixall and Winnothdale. In the first winter period, birds were recorded at 15 other sites than above, and in the second winter period at an additional 21 sites. The highest count was six at Park Hall CP on September 8th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of four birds in four of the transects and three of the watercourses, all of them in Sutton Park (central, Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Brueton Park, Dorridge Park, Fens Pools, Hawkes End Wood, Hawkes Mill Wood, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (just four sightings, cf. two pairs present last year), Mons Hill CBC plot, and Sandwell Valley, but after several years of apparent stability, the status in Smestow Valley seems to have declined, with no birds seen after April 20th. Others were noted in Blythe Valley, Clayhanger, Harborne, Saltwells LNR, Sedgley Beacon, West Bromwich and Woodgate Valley. Four birds visited the Sandwell Valley RSPB feeding station during January.

2007 Addendum W Mid A pair bred successfully in Hawkesbury Locks Spinney.

154 Marsh Tit Poecile palustris Fairly common resident. Warks Very well distributed in southern and central districts, with reports coming from an exceptionally high 83 sites (cf. 54 in 2007), an increase probably due to better coverage. Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Bunkers Hill Wood, Compton Verney (three), Crackley Wood, Edge Hill, Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton (two), Itchington Holt (four), Long Marston Camp, Lower Radbourn, Oakley Wood (four), Oversley Wood (several), Ryton Wood, Shuckburgh Hills (three), Snitterfield Bushes, Thickthorn Wood (two), Wappenbury Wood, Wellesbourne Wood and Wormleighton Res (three). In the north of the county, where it has been scarce for many years, a pair was located in the breeding season at Kingsbury Wood and winter records of one or two again came from the Ladywalk feeders. Single birds were noted at Alvecote on February 8th-9th, Arbury on March 11th and in Arley Wood on September 29th. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum, one of which double brooded and fledged 16 young. Resident on Bredon Hill along the north escarpment, but in much reduced numbers: at least two pairs nested, while up to six individuals were seen on many dates through September and October and birds were also noted throughout the year at Shrawley Wood. Elsewhere pairs were noted at Kingswood in April, Birchen Coppice in May and Stoke Bliss in July while the Wyre Forest produced many records throughout the year. Further records comprised one at Kingswood on January 8th, an excellent count of seven at Wissett’s Wood on January 28th, two at Yeald Wood on February 2nd, three at Monk Wood on 9th, one at Bishampton Bank on 16th, one at Knapp & Papermill on 18th where two had been noted on many dates throughout the first winter period, two at Tiddesley Wood on 26th, six at Abberley Hill on March 2nd, one at Kyre Pool on 21st, on 25th and one at Ockeridge Wood on April 12th. Later in the year singles were at Kingswood on September 8th, Little Comberton on 19th and 20th, Kyre Pool on October 2nd, Happy Valley on 12th, Broadway on November 4th, Little Comberton on 23rd and Croome Perry Wood on December 6th. Staffs There was just one confirmed breeding pair this year, at Ecton. Whether the adverse weather conditions affected observers more than the birds is unclear, but the only other sites reporting birds in the breeding season were Aqualate, Bateswood CP, Belvide, Birch Wood, Dimmingsdale, Dovedale, Ladderedge CP, Lordsley GP, Loynton Moss, Winnothdale and Yoxall Park. In the first winter period, birds were also seen at Anslow, Beck’s Bank, Blithfield, Carvel Wood, Forest Banks, Hamps Valley, Harpers Marsh, Key Wood (six on January 3rd), Manifold Valley, Oakamoor, Oldacre Valley, Park Hall, Warslow Brook and Wettonmill. In the second winter period, sightings in addition to the summering sites were Balance Hill, Blithfield, Brackenhurst, Carvel Wood (six on feeders on October 1st), Churnet Valley, Elton Court, Foker Grange, Glass Houses, Hamps Valley, Hoar Cross, Ilam, Jackson’s Bank, Madeley, Moat Hall, Musden Wood and Tittesworth. W Mid One was recorded along the River Cole (south) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham per SBo. Single birds were seen at Marsh Lane NR on March 24th and December 6th per NPB and Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve feeding station on March 27th BRP. Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus Rare winter visitor, much reduced since 1994 (7/10). 1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 61 44 1 3 7

155 Not recorded in 2008. 2007 Addendum Staffs One was present at Gailey Reservoir on December 22nd-23rd many observers. Wood Lark Lullula arborea Resident until 1960s, then a rare visitor and now an uncommon, but increasing breeding species. Worcs The six wintering birds first discovered towards the end of 2007 remained at Norchard until at least February 5th many observers. Staffs No survey data was provided for The Chase but casual records suggest at least 18 pairs in the commonly-visited areas. Sky Lark Alauda arvensis Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Increases were noted at Morton Bagot, where 38 singing males were plotted in 120 ha of stewardship farmland (cf. 32 in 2007) and Salford Priors GP, with an estimated 40 pairs (cf. about 30 in 2007). In contrast a further decline was reported at DMC Kineton, where the total of 33 logged in May was the second lowest count on record there, and there has been a rapid decrease from a recent peak of 86 in 2005. Other breeding season counts included 14 singing males at Ansty Park (Coombe Fields), 16 on farmland at Dunnington, seven along the River Avon between Bidford and Marlcliff, five at Long Marston Camp and five in 1km square at Eathorpe. Late winter reports of up to 35 were fairly widespread, mainly feeding in stubble fields. Some of the larger counts included 60 at Lower Radbourn on January 6th, two flocks of 40 and 50 in the Wiggins Hill/Wishaw area on 8th, 40 at Dunnington on 24th, 64 at Darlingscott on February 23rd and 50 at Salford Priors GP on March 2nd. Spring passage is rarely reported so counts of 29 moving north at Napton Hill on April 5th and 14 moving north at Wormleighton Res on 6th were notable. Visible autumn passage was noted from September 14th, but was initially very light with maxima of 20 south-east at Fenny Compton on September 22nd and 20 over Dunsmore Heath on 27th. The first big movement involved 260 moving west at Draycote on October 1st, but subsequent counts were low, chiefly of 50 or fewer moving per hour. Exceptions involved 200 moving west at Salford Priors GP in 90 minutes on October 12th and 530 south over Draycote on 29th. In the north of the county, where visible passage is little reported, a total of 75 south-west over Ladywalk in an hour on October 18th was notable. Passage petered out after the first week in November. Flocks of 40-70 were noted in stubble fields at various sites during the autumn across southern and eastern Warwickshire, with larger counts of 250 at Fenny Compton and 120 at Bearley on 18th (a day of significant passage) and 300 near Wormleighton Res on November 4th. Later wintering flocks included maxima of 90 at Priors Hardwick on December 6th and 100 at Fenny Compton on 10th, with 40-60 also noted at Lawford Heath, Oldberrow, Salford Priors GP and Tysoe. Worcs Small numbers recorded during the breeding season at Bittell Reservoirs, Eardiston, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Highwood, Hollybed Common, Holt, Kempsey, Larford, Malvern Hills and five pairs nested successfully at Throckmorton. Notable counts during the first winter period comprised 30 at Norchard on January 1st, 104 at Wick on 7th, while 120 were there on 16th, 80 on 22nd and 40 on February 2nd, 80 at Naunton Beauchamp and 70 at South Littleton on January 12th, 71 at Lineholt on January 27th, 15 near Stanford Bridge on February 6th, 50 at Callow End and 14 at Kempsey Lower Ham on 18th, Later in the year, 50 were noted on Bredon Hill on October 8th, 30 at Lower Moor

156 on 9th, 22 at Ryall Pits on 19th, 50 at Wick on 22nd, 20 at Saxon’s Lode on 26th, 70 at Stoke Bliss on November 12th and 35 at Bittell Reservoirs on December 22nd. Staffs Double-figure flocks in the first winter period were fewer than in 2007 with 100 at Cuckoo Bank on January 6th being the highest count reported. Elsewhere in January there were 40 at Highgate Common, 90 at River Sow Meadows and 50 at The Clive Farm; and in February 34 at Alrewas, 20 at Clay Mills and 40 at Cuckoo Bank. In early March there were also 55 at Hixon airfield. The first singing birds were noted at Silverdale Colliery on February 3rd, then at many sites throughout the county with particular concentrations at Berry Hill (18 territories), Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank (35), Cuckoo Bank (15+ territories on a partial survey), Moat Hall (10) and Onecote Grange Farm (17). Autumn passage was modest, between September 27th and October 19th totalling 111 birds: over Belvide (54), Black Bank (five), Doxey (six), Ingestre (35), Little Stoke (two) and Weston Jones (nine). Winter concentrations started building up late October with 60 at Burston and 55 at Cuckoo Bank; then in November 110 at Blithfield, 39 at Burston, 50 at Hanbury Park and 142 at Hixon Airfield. In December a huge count of 279 birds was made at Hixon Airfield on 16th and smaller counts included 25 at Blithfield, 40 at Burston, 27 at Cuckoo Bank, 35 at Newbold Quarry and 40 at Whittington Heath. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Barr Beacon, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bowmans Harbour (three pairs), Bury’s Hill, Castlegate, Chadwick End, Coombes- wood, Elmdon Park, Foxcote, Goscote Valley, Langley Hall, Lapal, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least six pairs), North Warwickshire Golf Course, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley and Westwood Heath. High counts included at least 80 birds at Clayhanger on January 5th and 30 plus on March 3rd, 44 at Catherine-de-Barnes on January 9th, 30 at Foxcote on 16th, 19 at Marsh Lane NR on 19th and 20 at Hockley Heath on October 5th. Birds were “fairly common” on farmland around Eastern Green, Allesley and Keresley. Smaller numbers were also noted at Aldridge, Cornets End, Dunstall Park, Mercote Mill Farm, Minworth STW, Park Lime Pits, Smestow Valley, Stirchley, Stubbers Green, Tettenhall and Wordsley.

Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (4/10) Worcs One was at Upton Warren from October 18th to 24th JGa et al., and constituted the first county record since 1996.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 20th (73) to October 10th (73) 8-year average: March 10th (–10 days) to October 9th (–1 day) The first was on the exceptionally early date of February 23rd at Doxey with the next, on March 2nd at Alvecote, still being ahead of recent trends. Last noted on October 3rd at Marsh Lane NR. Warks The only documented breeding colony was Salford Priors GP where 88 pairs bred, which was a partial recovery from a total of just 25 pairs in 2007. A pair seen entering a newly excavated hole in the bank of the River Alne at Wootton Wawen on April 20th was not seen there on a return visit in June, suggesting that the attempt was unsuccessful. An early spring arrival began with singles at Alvecote on March 2nd and Draycote on 9th, followed by eight at the latter site on 11th, four at Whitacre Heath NR on 12th, birds at five sites on 15th, with widespread reports on 16th. Small flocks were present at many of the

157 county’s larger waters during the second half of March, with maxima including 70 at Kingsbury on 18th, 90 at Shustoke on 25th and 100 at Draycote on 30th. Draycote had the largest April concentrations, with up to 1000 present on many days during 11th-25th and a peak of 1500 on 19th. Maxima at other waters included at least 500 feeding during falling snow at both Coton and Shustoke on April 6th, 80 in Packington Park on 8th, 400 at Brandon on 13th, 100 at Earlswood and 160 at Lea Marston on 17th, 400 feeding low in drizzle at Abbots Salford on 20th and 100 at Kingsbury on 21st. Late summer counts included 250 at Shustoke on July 10th and 350 on 11th feeding on hatching flies, while 250 were at Salford Priors GP on 13th. Subsequent counts on return passage were generally below 50, but with a peak of 200 at Draycote on September 4th and 100 on 7th. Passage was recorded widely until the third week in September, with the last record of 15 moving south-east with other hirundines at Church Hill, Wormleighton on 27th. Worcs Four were noted nesting on Eckington Bridge in early May, while the earliest arrivals comprised one at Kinsham Lake on March 9th, four at Grimley and one at Upton Warren on March 15th, two at Clifton-on-Teme on March 19th, ten at Arrow Valley Lake and four at Lower Moor on 20th and 12 at Ryall Pits on 23rd. Larger counts during April comprised 120 at Upton Warren on April 6th, 50 at Ryall Pits on 12th, 200 at Bittell Reservoirs on 24th, One late record was of two at Bittell Reservoirs on September 10th. Staffs The first arrivals were even earlier this year, with one over Doxey on February 23rd followed by the next at Knypersley on March 3rd, and the first double-figure count of 11 at Blithfield on 11th – all about a week earlier than 2007. The major influx occurred between March 28th and April 20th, peaking from 5th-13th, with excellent counts at the major reservoirs throughout this period and much better numbers than last year. At Chasewater 100 on March 28th increased to 200 by April 4th, 400 on 9th, 500 on 11th, 700 on 13th, 300 on 17th and 500 on 19th-20th. At Blithfield, 150 on March 29th increased to 800 on April 6th and 500 on 11th. At Aqualate there were 500 on April 5th-6th and 300 on 13th. At Belvide, there were 300 on 5th, 450 on 8th, 800 on 9th, 300 on 11th and 350 on 20th. By contrast, there was a sharp drop in the number of nesting colonies, from ten in 2007 to three in 2008. The largest was again Uttoxeter Quarry where 132 nest holes were counted, with a further 37 nests on the River Dove nearby and 30-40 nests at Barton GP. The presence of 50-100 birds at Rudyard and Tittesworth during June and July suggests a further undiscovered colony nearby. The only significant autumn accumulation was 250 at Belvide on September 1st, after which numbers quickly diminished with the last birds seen widely on 7th, then two late birds at River Sow Meadows on 14th. W Mid Birds bred local to Marsh Lane NR, where peak counts included 120 on May 21st and 150 on July 8th. At least 40 birds were counted in Sandwell Valley on March 23rd, 20 at Bartley Reservoir on April 8th, 30 at Stubbers Green on April 20th and 40 at Berkswell on July 14th. Passage birds were seen at Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Lutley Wedge, Netherton Reservoir, Ryders Mere, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Winson Green. Last seen at Marsh Lane NR on October 3rd.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 30th (74) to November 4th (74) 8-year average: March 17th (–13 days) to November 16th (+12 days) First arrivals on March 16th at Marsh Lane NR were in line with recent trends but the last departures, at Ladywalk and Burston on October 29th, were over two weeks early. Warks Nine breeding pairs were located at Long Marston Camp, while an increase in

158 breeding numbers was registered at Maxstoke. The earliest spring arrival was at Brandon on March 17th, followed by another at Draycote on 26th, with daily sightings from 31st. The main arrival commenced around April 3rd-6th when many sites had their first birds, and there were counts of 20 at Napton on 5th and 31 at Shustoke on 6th. Subsequently, there were passage peaks of 200 at Draycote on April 19th-20th and 500 on 29th, 100 at Seeswood Pool on 21st and 28th, and 350 during rainy conditions at Napton Res on 30th. On May 16th, a day of steady drizzle, there were counts of 150 at both Napton Res and Shustoke. Post-breeding counts included 150 roosting in reeds at Brandon on August 11th, 150 at Salford Priors GP on 17th, a peak of 400 at Compton Verney on 27th, 200 at Fenny Compton on 28th and 100 at Radway on 30th. In September, Draycote had high counts of 1000 on 4th, 500 on 7th and 200 on 11th, while other counts around then included 300 at Toft Farm Lakes on 4th, 150 at Farnborough Park on 6th and a maximum of 240 at Fenny Compton on 7th. Visible migration was generally light, but there were notable counts of 400 moving south at Bush Hill, Flecknoe in two hours on September 18th and 90 flying south over Dunsmore Heath on 21st. In October, small numbers were noted passing through daily until 7th, with a few stragglers passing until 12th. The latest reports were of singles at Brandon on October 20th and Ladywalk on 29th. Worcs Two pairs nested in boxes at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged 11 young while three further nesting pairs were present. The first spring arrival was noted at Westwood Pool on March 21st, with numbers building up through April including 30 over Castlemorton Common and 150 at Eckington Meadows on April 20th, Post-breeding flocks comprised 250 at Lower Park Farm on September 2nd, 200 at Upton Warren on 5th and 200 at Lower Moor on 7th while the last of the departing birds comprised five at Little Comberton on 10th, one at Bittell Reservoirs on 11th, two at Bredon Hill on 13th and finally one at Elmley Castle on 16th. Staffs Much as last year, an early spring migrant passed through Belvide on March 18th, followed by the next two at Tittesworth on 25th, after which a steady stream of single figure groups at many sites, with the first double figure count not until 10 at Belvide on April 5th. Major arrivals occurred the in the following two days, with 100 at Aqualate on 6th, 200 at Blithfield on 7th, then a lull until 200 again at Blithfield on 14th, 140 at Tittesworth on 17th, 100 at Chasewater on 20th, 200 roosting at Baddeley Green on 22nd, 400 at Tittesworth on 27th, 150 at Belvide on 29th and 150 at Doxey on 30th. The largest post-breeding flock was 80 at Waterfall on July 27th comprising 60 juveniles and 20 adults. Some of the larger autumn gatherings included 150 at River Sow Meadows on August 25th, 120 at Tittesworth on 28th, 140 at Weston Jones on 31st, 250 at Belvide on September 1st, 120 at Berry Hill and 150 at Doxey on 7th and 1000 at Blithfield on 12th. Passage was spread out from August 25th until 14th October, with over 5400 birds recorded. Significant movements were 200 south at Belvide on August 25th, 150+ at 50/hour heading south over Berry Hill on September 6th, “hundreds” passing through the Trent Valley, Ingestre during 11th and 3000+ passing through Black Bank at 800/hour on 14th, suggesting that mid- September was the principal departure period. The last records were two at Tittesworth on October 19th and one at Burston on 29th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 17 birds in seven of the transects and five of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Cole (central and east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Longmoor). The only breeding records received were from Dunstall Park, Goscote Valley, near to Marsh Lane NR and Park Lime Pits, and in Smestow Valley. Peak counts included 100 birds at Marsh Lane NR on April 20th and May 20th, and 101 on

159 September 21st, at least 80 in Coundon Wedge on August 28th, 60 in Sandwell Valley on September 10th, at least 100 at Winson Green on 12th, 150 over Barr Beacon on 15th and about 100 on 21st. The first record came from Marsh Lane NR on March 16th and the last, also from there, on October 25th.

House Martin Delichon urbicum Common to very common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 5th (74) to November 1st (74) 8-year average: March 21st (–15 days) to October 26th (–6 days) Continuing the trend of early arrival, first noted on March 16th at Upton Warren with the last on October 25th at Marsh Lane NR. Warks Counts of occupied nests included 31 on the Draycote pump house (cf. 32 there in 2006-07), 15 on one house in Fenny Compton and 12 at Netherstead Farm, Morton Bagot. Another local colony is suggested by a count of 32 collecting mud at Dunnington Court Farm on May 9th. A pair reportedly nested on a house in Stratford-upon-Avon for the 33rd year in succession. Early spring migrants were seen at Brandon (two) on March 17th and Draycote on 18th, but with no more appearing until April 2nd when a trickle occurred daily. The main arrival commenced around April 10th. The largest spring counts comprised 200 at Draycote on April 29th, 220 feeding low in drizzle at Napton Res on May 16th, 200 at Shustoke on 25th and 300 there in rainy conditions on 28th. Post-breeding counts were often larger than usual perhaps indicating a good breeding season, beginning with 800 feeding on hatching flies at Shustoke on July 11th, with 200 at Wasperton on 12th. In August there were maxima of 300 at Salford Priors GP on 10th and 200 at Radway on 30th, while a huge assembly at Compton Verney built up from 700 on 20th to 900 on 27th. Rainy conditions during early September resulted in some large counts at Draycote, including 1000 on 4th, 600 on 7th and 300 on 11th, while at least 1000 hirundines, mainly comprising this species, were feeding low in the rain at Shustoke on 5th. Other counts around this time included 200 at Seeswood Pool on September 3rd, 250 feeding low in rain at Napton Res on 4th, and totals of 150 at Brandon, 200 at Alcester and 130 at Salford Priors GP on 7th. Small parties of migrants continued to pass through the county during the first ten days of October, with the largest counts of 30 at Wasperton on 4th and 28 at Draycote on 7th. A pair was still feeding young in the nest at Draycote on October 1st; while a late brood of five fledged at Hartshill on 10th, with the family lingering at this site until 12th. The latest reports were of one at Napton Hill on October 19th and two at Fenny Compton on 23rd. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum. Very early birds were noted at Upton Warren on March 16th and 18th March. Later during the spring 200 birds were noted at Upton Warren on May 26th while post-breeding flocks included 110 at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 28th and 80 at Grimley on August 26th. A large movement was noted on September 7th when 120 were at Abberton, 200 at Longdon Marsh and 800 at Lower Moor and October records comprised five at Upton Warren on 1st and one there on 5th, ten at Grimley on 6th, five at Little Comberton on 12th and finally two there on 15th. Staffs In keeping with recent years, spring migration was rather quiet and covered the whole of April and May. The first was seen at Gailey on March 30th, with small numbers thereafter, the first double-figure count being 10 at Belvide on April 11th, but the first treble figure count not until 29th when 100 were again counted at Belvide. Large flocks thereafter were 150 at Doxey on May 17th, 117 on 18th, 200 at Chasewater on 25th and 1500 at Belvide and 110 at Tittesworth on 28th, suggesting that many birds do not arrive

160 until very late in May. Breeding records were boosted this year by BTO Atlas surveys, with a total of 40 sites holding breeding colonies. Larger groups were Berry Hill (12), Ingestre (16), Keele University (nine) and Rising Brook. Three-figure concentrations in autumn were 100 at Berry Hill on June 22nd, 150 at Doxey on July 26th, 100 at Wolfscote Dale on August 21st, 200 at Ingestre on 30th, 300 at River Sow Meadows on September 4th, 100 at Chasewater on 5th, 200 at River Dove, Fauld on 7th, 1000 at Tittesworth on 8th, 300 at Blithfield on 12th and 300 at River Sow Meadows and 100 through in 75 minutes at Black Bank on 14th. The last birds were six at Keele University on October 9th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of just 14 birds in three transects and three watercourses: River Cole (east), River Rea (south of Wychall) and River Tame (west). The only other breeding records were received from Bourneville, Dudley Wood, Newbridge, Penn, Portway and Warstock (26 and nine nests in separate colonies). Good numbers visited Marsh Lane NR, with 50 birds counted on April 24th and May 26th, and September movements including 95 on 4th, 113 on 6th and at least 170 in five minutes in the evening on 11th. High counts elsewhere included 30 at Sheepwash UP on June 12th, 40 to 50 at West Bromwich from August 18th to September 16th, 50 at Saltwells LNR and at least 30 over Dunstall Park on August 31st, 40 at Olton Mere on September 11th and 100 at Winson Green on 12th. Last recorded on October 25th at Marsh Lane NR.

Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Warks There were probably 11 breeding territories at Brandon (as in 2007), while single territories were again held during the breeding season at Barford, Napton Res and Warwick Castle Park. In the south-west, a single male was present on territory at Salford Priors GP from March 30th-October 12th, but was thought to be unmated. Further singing males were heard at Napton Hill Quarry on June 5th and at Ufton Hill on 17th, both new sites for this species. In the Tame Valley, single pairs probably bred at Ladywalk and at a site in the Kingsbury area, while towards the end of the year wintering birds were also noted at both Coton and Dosthill Lake. A singing male found in a hedgerow on farmland at Priors Hardwick on September 14th MJL was unusual, and suggests that birds can now probably turn up almost anywhere. Worcs At least six were singing at Upton Warren on March 15th, where at least one family party was noted during the summer and a juvenile was ringed on the July 27th. Away from this site, single singing males were noted on territory at two separate sites along the Avon Valley, at a site in the east of the county and at a site in the south of the county, while single date records comprised one at Clifton on May 10th and Rous Lench on September 14th. Staffs Two birds held territories from April until June at the site where one bird was present in 2007. Although breeding was unconfirmed, it is almost certain that one or two pairs are now breeding at this site (location and observers withheld).

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common to very common resident. Warks Breeding records included 11 pairs in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp, five pairs in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (where normally there are just two), and three nests found at Salford Priors GP. Most records referred to small parties, with numerous reports of around 20-35 in size coming from sites all round the county and

161 in most months. Amongst the larger counts were 40 at Farnborough Park on January 25th, 43 at Eathorpe on 28th, 47 at Kingsbury on October 21st, 45 at Ladywalk on November 25th, 45 at Draycote on 27th, and 80 at Compton Verney on 29th. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum, one pair nested at Lower Moor. Further breeding season records were made at Diglis, Grimley, Kyre Park, Shrawley Wood, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool while post-breeding flocks were noted at Throckmorton Lagoon (24 birds) on July 2nd, Lower Moor (26 birds) on 22nd and at Holt (25+ birds) on October 6th. Staffs Six pairs bred at Doxey, the same as 2007. Larger counts comprised 30 at Dimmings dale on January 13th, 48 at Stanley Pool on July 16th, 35 at Hanchurch Woods on August 29th, 40 at Uttoxeter Quarry on September 21st and 32 at Alton on November 4th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 65 birds in 27 of the transects and 14 of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot for the third successive year, compared to an average of three over the last 17 years. At least three pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR (cf. four in 2007). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Acock’s Green, Berkswell, Blackheath, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Buckpool, Bumble Hole LNR, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Harborne NR, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Penn, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, Warrens Hall LNR, Warstock, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley. High counts included 25 in Sandwell Valley on January 6th about 20 on November 22nd, at least 20 in Smestow Valley on June 5th and Marsh Lane NR on 26th- 27th and August 31st, 25 on September 16th and 30 on October 26th, 25 in Reedswood Park on December 16th, 21 in Coundon Wedge on 27th and 23 at Norton on 29th.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Very rare vagrant (7/10). Staffs An extremely elusive bird was present in Stansley Wood, Blithfield from October 1st-3rd MPR et al. and another was seen briefly at Tatenhill on 15th SCol. These are the sixth and seventh county records. W Mid Single birds were trapped and ringed in Sandwell Valley on September 23rd SBo and seen alongside the Birmingham Canal by Wolverhampton Science Park on October 4th GAC. Individuals were reported at Monkspath on September 28th and Wren’s Nest NNR on October 10th, but no further details were received.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent, though declining, summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the region. Long-term average: April 21st (72) to August 26 (59) 8-year average: April 20th (–1 day) to August 26th (0)

162 First arrival was seen at Tittesworth on April 17th and the last at Draycote on the late date of September 17th. Warks In spring, passage males were singing at Draycote on April 27th several observers, Seeswood Pool on 28th DHu et al., and in Hampton Wood around the same time CAr. A relatively late bird in the country park at Draycote on September 17th RCM was the only autumn report. Worcs A passage bird was noted at Ripple Pits on April 27th, while singing males were noted at British Camp on May 3rd, Bredon Hill on 5th, Hurst Coppice on 14th and Pound Green Common on 14th and June 5th, while in the Wyre Forest up to three singing males were noted along Dowles Brook during May and June. Staffs The first arrival was at Tittesworth on April 17th, followed by Hawksmoor on 27th. Breeding sites included Baggeridge CP (one territory), Cannock Chase (five terri- tories from three areas), Cotton Dell, Dimmingsdale (three), Ecton, Hawksmoor and Swine- holes Wood. The last bird was Wood Warbler at Seeswood Pool, Steve Seal seen at Dimmingsdale on June 19th. W Mid One was heard singing in Warley Woods on April 27th.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Reported sites with six or more breeding territories included: Abbots Salford (eight), Brandon (12), Chessets Wood (13 along the Grand Union Canal), Fenny Compton (eight along 1.5km of the Oxford Canal), Henley GC (eight), Itchington Holt (seven), Long Marston Camp (13), Oakley Wood (14, cf. eight in 2006), Shrewley (nine), Ufton Hill (ten), Whittleford Park (eight) and Wormleighton Res (six). Most repeat counts showed no appreciable change in the population during 2005-08, although an increase at Oakley Wood was notable. However the annual count at DMC Kineton showed an appreciable rise, with the total of 54 logged in May representing the highest ever there and over twice the average. The increase here is probably due to the maturing woodland habitats at the site. About 16 wintering birds were located during the first quarter, with up to five at Alvecote (with the peak on January 15th), two each at Coton and Draycote, and singles at Brandon, Dosthill/Fishers Mill GP, Ladywalk, Lighthorne STW, Milcote STW, Salford Priors GP and Wellesbourne Wood. The earliest apparent spring migrants were in song at Brandon and Draycote (two) on March 2nd and at Whittleford Park on 9th, with the main arrival commencing from 13th. Spring passage counts included a fall of 40 on Napton Hill on April 5th and a peak of 11 at Draycote on 13th. On return passage, maxima included 35 at Wormleighton Res on August 29th, 18 at Charlecote GP on 30th, 15 at Brandon and 17 at Salford Priors GP on 31st, 15 again at Brandon and 16 at Shustoke on September 2nd, 14 in scrub by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 6th, 20 at Seeswood Pool on 17th-18th,

163 and 19 at Napton Hill on 23rd. In early October there were still six at both Fenny Compton and Seeswood on 2nd, eight at Ladywalk on 3rd and six at Salford Priors GP on 5th, with small numbers remaining widespread until 16th. The last were three at Newbold Comyn on October 22nd. Several seen in the Tame Valley during October 27th-31st were probably incoming winter migrants, and during the final two months about 20 were reported. The largest congregation was up to seven at the Hams Hall sewage outfall in December, while there were two each at Alvecote, Dosthill and Draycote, and singles at Brandon, Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Coton, Fenny Compton, Salford Priors GP and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Up to five birds were at Lower Moor STW during the first winter period, while one of three birds wintering at Kempsey STW was a colour-ringed bird trapped there in December 2006 and one was noted at Upton Warren on January 3rd. Many birds were noted in song from mid to late March including four at Arrow Valley South, singles at Bittell Reservoirs and Broadway, four at Castlemorton Common, five at Grimley, three at Hewell Grange, two at Holt, one at Kerswell Green, one at Little Comberton, ten at Old Hills, two at Ryall Pits, one at Stoke Bliss, six at Upton-upon-Severn STW and six at Upton Warren. During the autumn, eight were noted at Vale Golf Course on September 8th and three were at Upton Warren on October 1st. Records during the second winter period comprised one at Upton Warren on November 15th and 23rd, Beckford Conservation Pit on December 7th, while up to four were again wintering at Lower Moor STW. Staffs In the first winter period birds were seen at Alrewas STW, Alrewas GP (three), Alve - cote Pools – Pretty pigs Pool, Blithfield, Brancote Sewage Farm, Chasewater, Croxall NR (two), Drayton Bassett pits, Elford GravelPits, Essington Quarry Pool, National Memorial Arboretum, Rising Brook, River Sow Meadows, Tittesworth and Westport. It was impossible to tell exactly when the first migrant birds returned but this was likely to have been in early March with singles at Belvide and Chase- water on 7th. Belvide had the best Chiffchaff at Shustoke, Steve Seal of early counts with six present by 18th and 11 on 19th. During the breeding season the best reported sites were Baggeridge CP (10), Greenway Bank (nine), Maer Hills (10) and Tittesworth (11). A total of 28 birds were ringed at Belvide on July 19th. In the autumn, double-figures falls of passage birds were recorded at Belvide when 15 were ringed on 3rd, 15 were seen at Berry Hill on 7th, 25 at Park Hall on 8th, 11 at Doxey on 14th and 12 at Berry Hill on 18th. Birds were seen almost daily until the last at Belvide on October 16th after which the first presumed wintering bird arrived at Blithfield on November 3rd, followed by another showing some characteristics of an eastern race at Drayton Bassett Pits on 4th-6th. Other sites holding wintering birds were Alrewas GP (two), Aqualate, Barton GP (two), Belvide, Branston Water Park, Britannia Stadium, Chasewater, Croxall NR, River Sow Meadows, Tittesworth, Uttoxeter Quarry, Westport and Whitmore – Cudmore Fishing Pools.

164 W Mid Six territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to five last year and on average over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 66 birds in 40 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Black Patch Park, Blackheath, Blythe Valley, Brueton Park, Buckpool, Bumble Hole LNR, Bunson’s Wood (12 singing on April 8th), Bury’s Hill, Chadwick End, Clayhanger, Clayhanger Common, Coombeswood, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Grand Union Canal (13 counted on May 11th), Haden Hill Park, Hampton in Arden, Harborne NR, Hawne Park, Ketley Quarry, King’s Heath, Kingswinford, Lapal, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least four pairs, cf. up to six in 2007), Marston Green, Netherton, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Penn, Portway, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Sneyd, Stevens Park, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Winson Green and Wren’s Nest. Large numbers were noted with tit flocks in Sutton Park during the autumn, the most involving 20 birds on September 2nd. Wintering birds involved two at STW on January 6th and February 17th, and singles at Cornets End on November 3rd, Smestow Valley on 14th, Netherton on 16th and West Bromwich on 19th.

Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita abietinus Very rare vagrant (5/10) Worcs One was at Upton Warren on March 15th.

Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis Rare vagrant (8/10) Staffs One was seen and heard singing at Westport Lake on April 9th-10th NJS.

Eastern-type Chiffchaff Warks One at Alvecote on March 2nd RLS. Worcs One was noted at Lower Moor STW from January 8th to March 14th.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One winter record. Long-term average: March 26th (74) to October 7th (74) 8-year average: March 21st (–5 days) to October 9th (+2 days) A later arrival with the first being seen on March 30th at Brandon with widespread records the next day. The last bird was reported from Seeswood Pool on October 2nd. Warks Still often numerous in suitable habitat, but becoming more local in distribution. Sizeable counts of singing males in the breeding season came from: Brandon (22), Coton/ Lea Marston area (26, cf. 20 in 2007), DMC Kineton (48, which continues the decline and is 38% below the mean for the previous twenty years), Fenny Compton (31 in scrub along 1.5km of the Oxford Canal), Harbury Spoilbank NR (11), Henley GC (nine), Kingsbury Wood (11), Upper Kingston (nine in deciduous plantation), and Whittleford Park (nine).

165 Fewer juveniles were trapped at Brandon during the summer indicating a poor breeding season there. The first migrants were two at Brandon on March 30th followed on April 1st by birds at Broadwell, Draycote, Napton Hill and Shustoke. The main influx commenced on April 4th, and spring maxima included 30 at Wormleighton Res on 19th, 20 at Draycote and 25 at Salford Priors GP on 20th, and at least ten at Earlswood Lakes on 21st, indicating peak passage. Return passage was fairly sparse with a maximum of only 12 at Worm - leighton Res on August 29th. Autumn passage continued at a trickle daily to September 25th, with the latest records of singles at Priors Hardwick on 27th, Salford Priors GP on 28th and Seeswood Pool on October 2nd. Worcs After the first record at Stone on March 31st there was a steady arrival during early April being followed by peak counts of singing males as follows: three at Arrow Valley North, two at Bittell Reservoirs, seven at Bredon Hill, one at Castlemorton Common, several at Devil’s Spittleful, one at Endon Hill, two at Grimley, two at Happy Valley, seven at Hurst Coppice, three at Kinsham Lake, one at Little Comberton, three at Lower Moor, six at Pound Green Common, one at Ryall Pits, ten at Throckmorton Willow Warbler at Shustoke, Steve Seal Lagoons, one at Twyford Bank, while nine at Upton Warren in late April had largely moved on by May and the only report from the Wyre Forest was of three singing birds. During the autumn 20 were noted at Longdon Marsh on August 28th, while the last birds to be recorded were one at Lower Moor on September 12th, four at Upton Warren on 13th and singles at Bredon Hill on 18th and Bittell Reservoirs on 20th. Staffs The first arrivals were on March 31st at Belvide, Chasewater, Croxall and Tittesworth, suggesting a county-wide influx. As usual, significant numbers of migrants were not reported until later into April with ten at Belvide and 22 at Tittesworth on 12th the first double-figure counts. During the breeding season the best sites were Back Forest (19 territories), Berry Hill (12), Croxden Quarry (15), Downs Banks (16), Ecton (23), Hanchurch Woods (13), Jack Hayes (21), Knotbury (12), Park Hall CP (15), and The Roaches (16). Larger August counts were 22 at Belvide (caught during a ringing session), 12 at Berry Hill and 13 at Doxey Marshes; in September, 15 at Berry Hill on 6th was above average. The last bird was at Doxey on September 28th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 39 birds in 15 of the transects and seven of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Cole (east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also noted at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Buckpool, Bumble Hole LNR, Clayhanger, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Goscote Valley, Grand Union Canal, Harborne, Hawkes End Wood, Kingswinford, Lutley Wedge, Marsh

166 Lane NR (at least four pairs), North Warwickshire Golf Course, Penn, Priory Fields, Reedwood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Selly Oak, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (at least seven singing in late April), Sutton Park (about 25 singing males in the south), Walsall Arboretum, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Winson Green and Woodgate Valley. First noted at Clayhanger on March 31st with the last at Marsh Lane on September 13th.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Warks Counts were variable, but many were slightly down on the often record numbers of 2007. Reported sites with six or more singing males in the breeding season included Abbots Salford (seven), Bearley Bushes (seven), Bishop’s Hill (seven), Bunkers Hill Wood (six), DMC Kineton (58, one less than the record last year), Draycote (12), Farnborough Park (nine), Fenny Compton (nine along 1.5km of the Oxford Canal), Itchington Holt (ten), Kenilworth (nine on a BBS compared to eight in 2007), Kingsbury WP (12), Kingsbury Wood (nine), Long Marston Camp (nine) and Oakley Wood (17). During the first quarter over-wintering singles were noted at: Alcester, Bearley, Brandon village, Chesterton, Coombe Abbey, Hatton, Ilmington, Leamington Spa, Moreton Morrell, Napton-on-the- Hill, Nuneaton, Rugby, Snitterfield, Studley, Warwick, Wootton Wawen and Worm - leighton, with two in . The first recognisable summer migrant was singing at Knightcote on March 27th, with widespread reports during 29th-31st. Spring passage included peaks of 16 at Draycote on April 20th and 19 at Brandon on 23rd. Return passage was again on the light side but included maxima of 12 at Brandon on August 27th and ten at Wormleighton Res on 29th, probably illustrating the peak period. Outgoing passage ceased rather earlier than recently, with the last migrants at Ilmington Downs on October 11th and Brandon on 12th. After a gap in records, further reports of two at Ladywalk and one at Salford Priors GP on October 26th, five at Napton Hill on 27th, and singles at Grandborough on 29th, Shustoke on November 3rd and Morton Bagot on 4th, were perhaps incoming winter migrants. Subsequently about 15 over-wintering birds were noted, with three trapped and ringed in a Wolverton garden, two each at Combrook, Moreton Morrell and Nuneaton, and singles at Draycote, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Ladywalk, Newbold Comyn and Rugby. Worcs Three pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum and a family party was noted at Upton Warren, while further breeding season records comprised counts of singing males as follows: ten on west side of Bredon Hill, seven at Grimley, three at Holt, one at Malvern Link, two at Pudford Hill and five at Stoke Bliss. During first winter period records of one to two birds received from Arrow Valley North, Barbourne, Birlingham, Evesham, Grimley, Lineholt, Little Comberton, Malvern Link, Northwick, St Johns, Stoke Bliss, Sweet Green, Upton-upon-Severn STW and Upton Warren, while at least six were wintering at Lower Moor. A few passage records in late September included four at Hollybed Common on 19th, one at Holt on 26th and two at Longdon Marsh on 29th. During second winter period records of one to two birds received from Abberton, Grimley, Little Comberton, Malvern Link, Stoke Bliss, Upton Warren and again six at Lower Moor. Staffs During the first quarter of the year, one or two birds were recorded at 14 sites (cf. 16 in 2007, 15 in 2006), but there was clearly an overlap between these and spring arrivals, the first of which was probably at Berry Hill on March 27th. The largest group of breeding birds was 9 at Westport on May 1st. In late spring/early summer, 8+ territories were at Apedale CP, 10+ pairs bred at Belvide (11 in 2007, five-six in 2006), four birds

167 were recorded at Dimmingsdale (10 last year) and five pairs attempted at Doxey (11 in 2007, 10 in 2006), with smaller breeding concentrations recorded throughout the county. Autumn groups peaked at five at Westport on August 13th, five at Doxey on 28th, six at Black Bank on September 8th with five remaining until 21st and six at Berry Hill on 25th, numbers then tailing off until two at Dovedale and one at Tittesworth on October 17th, presumably the last summer/passage birds. The first wintering bird arrived at Uttoxeter Quarry on November 8th, with a further eight sites holding wintering birds, an improve - ment on last years four sites. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 29 birds in 17 of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Merritts Brook, River Cole (east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Keeper’s Pool and Longmoor). Seven terri - tories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to nine both last year and on average over the last 17 years. Seven pairs were present at Marsh Lane NR (cf. five in 2007 and four in 2006). Birds were also present during the breeding season at Acock’s Green, Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Black Patch Park, Blythe Blackcap at Shustoke, Steve Seal Valley, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Bumble Hole LNR, Bunson’s Wood, Claregate, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Hampton Coppice, Harborne, Hawne Park, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Penn, Perry Barr, Portway, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Shirley, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Stourbridge, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Woodgate Valley. During the first winter period, up to two birds were occasionally noted in gardens in Acock’s Green from January 19th to February 2nd and Wightwick from January 28th to March 19th. Singles were seen in gardens in Harborne on January 3rd, Knowle from 12th to February 21st, Dorridge on January 27th and February 10th, Hill Hook on 2nd, Netherton on 10th and Balsall Common on 29th. In the second winter period, two birds visited a Stourbridge garden from December 9th to the year’s end. Single birds were seen, often in gardens, at West Bromwich on November 14th, Acock’s Green on 22nd and December 20th and 27th, Martineau Gardens on November 22nd, Westwood Heath on November 27th and December 7th and 12th, King’s Heath on 5th, Kingswinford on 13th, Wollaston on 14th, Penn on 14th and 28th, Wightwick on 15th, 23rd and 29th, Winson Green on 22nd, Willenhall on 29th, Oakham and Hill Hook on 30th and Tettenhall on 31st.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Fairly common to common summer resident. Long-term average: April 20th (71) to September 14th (70) 8-year average: April 3rd (–11 days) to September 22nd (+8 days)

168 First arrivals were later than in recent years on April 16th at Brandon and the last on September 24th at Draycote. Warks From available data breeding territories were slightly down at most sites com - pared with 2007. Sites with three or more singing males included: Baddesley Common (three), Bearley Bushes (three), Bishop’s Hill (four), Brandon (15), Charlecote GP (six in area), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (nine), DMC Kineton (ten, cf. a 20 year average here of 16), Draycote (six), Eathorpe (four), Fenny Compton (three along the Oxford Canal), Hampton Wood (three), Ladywalk (only four, cf. 15 in 2007 but perhaps an under- estimate), Kingsbury WP (five), Shrewley (three), Shustoke Res (three), Ufton Fields (four), Whitacre Heath NR (five), Whittleford Park (three) and Wormleighton Res (five). In addition, two territories at Salford Priors GP were the first to breed at this site. The first spring birds were two at Brandon on April 16th, followed by singles at Priors Marston on 21st and Whitnash on 23rd, and widespread reports from 24th. Autumn birds were noted up to mid-September, with the last noted at Draycote on 24th. Worcs The first of the year was noted at Wissett’s Wood on April 21st, while single pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum and Lower Moor. Counts of singing males during the breeding season were recorded as follows: singles at Abberton and Ankerdine Hill, three at Arrow Valley South, singles at British Camp, Brockhill Fishing Pools, Butlers Hill, Castlemorton Common, Church Lench, Drakes Broughton, Earls Croome, Eldersfield, Elmley Castle, two at Hollybed Common, one at Holt, three at Hurst Coppice, four at Kyre, four at Lower Moor, two at Nafford, two at Pound Green Common, four at Pudford Hill, three at Stoke Bliss, one at Throckmorton Airfield, two at Throckmorton Lagoons, one at Throckmorton Landfill Site, two at Upton Warren, singles at Wick and Wissett’s Wood, six in the Wyre Forest and one at Wyre Piddle. A juvenile was ringed at Upton Warren on July 27th where the last to be noted was on September 13th. Staffs The first bird was seen at Draycott-in-the-Clay on April 18th, followed by one at Branston Water Park on 20th. Larger breeding concentrations included Croxden Quarry (five), Downs Banks (five), Greenway Bank CP (five), Hanchurch Woods (eight), Lordsley GP (seven), Rudyard Lake (four), Tittesworth (15), Westport (four) and Wolseley Park (four), with many other sites reporting smaller numbers of singing birds. Generally, numbers were lower than in previous years. Autumn migration was muted with Belvide, Doxey, Elford Gravel Pits, Tittesworth, Uttoxeter Quarry and Westport recording birds in August; the last birds and only September sightings, at Belvide on 3rd and Uttoxeter Quarry on 21st. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded just two birds in two transects, both along the River Cole (east and south). Birds were also noted at Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Goscote Valley, Grand Union Canal, Keresley Mere, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least four pairs), Penn, Ravenshaw, Rough Close, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park and West Bromwich. First noted on April 25th at Sandwell Valley and the last at Marsh Lane NR on September 20th.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Two winter records. Long-term average: April 20th (72) to September 23rd (72) 8-year average: April 12th (–8 days) to October 5th (+12 days) Apart from a possible over-wintering bird at Fairfield on March 26th, first noted on April 18th at Brandon and the last on September 29th at Lutley Wedge.

169 Warks Generally speaking the breeding population appeared to be slightly down on 2007, with for instance nine territories at DMC Kineton (where numbers have ranged from 10-17 in recent years) and seven at Fenny Compton (cf. 12 in 2007), though birds remain very widespread in the county. Three pairs bred successfully on a farm at Frankton and there were four nests at Salford Priors GP. The first spring migrants were heard at Brandon on April 18th, Fenny Compton on 19th and Salford Priors GP on 20th, with the main influx commencing on 24th. On April 26th five were singing at Morton Bagot and six at Henley GC, while on 29th nine were recorded along a 500m stretch of the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton. In autumn, six at Wormleighton Res on August 29th was the best count, with birds regularly recorded in the county up to September 23rd, with the last bird at Morton Bagot on 28th. Worcs One present in a Fairfield garden from March 26th until at least April 16th was likely to have been a bird that had spent the winter elsewhere. A family party was noted at Upton Warren while small numbers were noted at Lower Moor through July until August 15th. After the first spring arrivals at Ashmoor Common and Holt on April 25th, maximum counts of singing males, singles unless otherwise stated, comprised three at Arrow Valley, two at Bittell Reservoirs, two at Bredon’s Hardwick, two at Castlemorton Common, Conderton, one at Eardiston, four at Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, two at Holt, Kinsham Lake, two near Kempsey, one at Kyre, three at Longdon Marsh, Lower Westmancote, Ryall Pits, Ryestreet Meadows, Southwood Common, Stoke Bliss, three at Throckmorton Lagoons and four at Upton Warren. Staffs First record of the year was at Branston Water Park on April 20th, a week later than last year, then Whitemoor Haye on 21st. Territories were noted at 48 sites, (45 last year), with five+ at Blithfield (but thought not to have bred) and four at Crossplains the largest. Juveniles were seen at Crossplains, Maer Hills, River Dove at Fauld, Silverdale Colliery and Tatenhill. Autumn counts were lower than usual, perhaps reflecting a poor breeding season, with just three at Byrkley Park on August 22nd and at Black Bank on September 8th the highest. The last birds were seen on September 21st at Berry Hill, Croxall and River Dove at Fauld. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of six birds in four of the transects and three of the watercourses: Bourne Brook (four birds), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Longmoor). Birds were noted at Benton’s Green, Bumble Hole, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park (three in May), Fens Pools, Goscote Valley, Keresley Mere, Lutley Wedge (three in May and September), Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Middle Bickenhill, Netherton Hill, Ravenshaw, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (three in August), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Stubbers Green and Withymoor. The first spring migrant was on April 22nd at Clayhanger and the last on September 29th at Lutley Wedge.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common to abundant summer resident. Long-term average: April 13th (74) to September 28th (74) 8-year average: April 6th (–7 days) to October 3rd (+5 days) First arrival on April 11th at Brandon and the last on September 28th, also at Brandon. Warks There were conflicting accounts of numbers this year, with apparent severe declines noted in the Coton/Lea Marston area with just seven singing (cf. 21 in 2007) and DMC Kineton, where 53 were logged (cf. 88 in 2007). Other sites had however similar

170 populations to last year, with territory counts of six or more coming from: Bearley Bushes (eight in area), Bidford-Marlcliff (seven along the River Avon), Brandon (similar to last year’s population of 25), Draycote (six), Dunnington (seven), Fenny Compton (13 along 1.5km of the Oxford Canal and 11 along a similar length of railway embankment), Long Marston Camp (seven), Morton Bagot (13 in 120 ha of farmland, cf. ten in 2007), Salford Priors GP (11) and Shustoke Res (eight). The earliest spring report came from Brandon on April 11th with the main passage commencing a week later. Post-breeding counts included up to ten at Draycote during July and six at Coton on August 17th. Birds were recorded daily in the county up to September 22nd, with the latest records at Napton Hill on 25th and Brandon on 28th. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum, while a pair was noted at Brockhill Fishing Pools, two pairs nested at Upton Warren and two juveniles were seen at Lower Park Farm on July 27th. After the first arrivals at Upton Warren on April 18th, maximum counts of singing males, singles unless otherwise stated, comprised two at Arrow Valley, three at Bittell Reservoirs, five at Grimley, six at Hollybed Common, six near Kempsey, Little Comberton and Ryall Pits. Later in the summer, post-breeding records comprised eight at British Camp on August 17th, six at Hollybed Common on September 9th while the final observation of the year was of one at Wick on September 20th. Staffs This very common and conspicuous bird was seen throughout the county. It was first noted at Belvide and Doxey on April 13th. Best breeding season numbers were recorded at Berry Hill (34 territories, 35 and 20 previous two years), Doxey (14, with 16 and 14 in previous two), Alrewas (11) and Cuckoo Bank (10). A total count of 76 birds including juveniles was made at Berry Hill on June 30th. The last birds were seen at Woodhead on September 22nd and Berry Hill on 25th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 19 birds in nine of the transects and four of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Cole (east – ten birds), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central). Birds were noted at Berkswell, Birmingham Mainline Canal, Blythe Valley, Buckpool, Bumble Hole, Bury’s Hill, Chadwick End, Clayhanger, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park (eight on May 5th), Fibbersley, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Goscote Valley (about five territories), Grand Union Canal, Hampton Coppice, Keresley Mere, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least nine pairs, cf. six in 2007), Netherton Hill, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Rattlechain Mere, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Small Heath, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park (ten singing males in the south), Warley Woods, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich (ten on May 20th), Westwood Heath, Woodgate Valley and Wren’s Nest. First arrival was on April 18th in Smestow Valley while the last was seen on September 26th at West Bromwich.

Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Rare winter visitor and breeder (8/10). Staffs At least three birds bred on Cannock Chase and another was found at a new site in December (observer and location withheld). W Mid Birds bred at the site occupied during the last two years, where at least six singing males were noted SMH. One pair fed young on May 30th, whilst counts involved at least ten birds on September 13th and 16th, seven on October 6th and nine on 21st SMH.

171 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 17th (72) to August 29th (62) 8-year average: April 10th (–7 days) to September 1st (+3 days) First noted on April 13th at Brandon and Salford Priors GP with the last on September 6th at Berry Hill. Warks Breeding was proved at Brandon, where up to four were reeling during the breeding season. Other singing males were located during this period in the Fisher’s Mill/Kingsbury area (two), Lighthorne Quarry, Salford Priors GP and Woolscott. The first spring migrants were heard at Brandon and Salford Priors GP on April 13th, followed by spring migrants reeling in suburban Nuneaton on 20th- 21st, Toft Farm Lakes on 26th, Whittleford Park from 27th- 30th, and at Wellesbourne on 28th. The only return migrant was found at Draycote on August 5th. Worcs One noted at Castle - morton Common on April 26th, Grasshopper Warbler at Brandon, Steve Seal was followed by singles at Kinsham Lake and Upton Warren on 27th, Abberton on May 3rd and 5th and Upton Warren from 5th until June 10th while two birds were present there on May 17th and June 3rd. Later in the summer one was at Arrow Valley North on July 20th. Staffs The first arrival was not until April 20th (14th in 2007) with one at Doxey, followed by birds at Baddeley Green, Berry Hill and Drayton Bassett Pits the next day.

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Breeding/Reeling on Territory 7 10141520283744-4529 The most noticeable drop in breeding territories was at Cuckoo Bank where there were three this year against 18 last, but it is unlikely the area was surveyed fully. Numbers increased at two other strongholds with seven at Berry Hill and eight at Doxey. Two birds were still reeling at Berry Hill on the very late date of August 23rd, when another was seen at Chasewater and the last bird was seen on the very late date of September 6th at Berry Hill. W Mid Single birds were recorded in Sandwell Valley on April 27th and June 16th, Sutton Park on May 5th and Marsh Lane NR from June 5th to August 3rd, but there was no proof of breeding.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Fairly common to common, though declining summer resident. Long-term average: April 14th (72) to September 29th (66) 8-year average: April 6th (–8 days) to September 30th (+1 day)

172 First record was on April 5th at Napton Reservoir with the last at Whitacre Heath NR on September 26th. Warks Breeding territories were reported from 32 sites, with the population appearing similar or slightly reduced compared with 2007. Some of the better counts of singing males included nine at Abbots Salford, five on the River Avon from Bidford-Marlcliff, eight at Brandon, five at Chesterton, 14 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area, five at Napton Res and seven at Salford Priors GP. The first spring migrant was present at Napton Res from April 5th, with the next at Brandon on 10th. The peak in spring passage was highlighted by counts of ten singing at Wolvey Pools on April 21st and 12 at Abbots Salford on 29th, while a bird was singing in a rape field well away from water at Ladbroke on May 4th. Autumn birds were noted regularly up to September 19th, with two subsequently at Napton Res on 23rd, and the last at Whitacre Heath NR on 26th. Worcs Two were noted singing at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 18th, rising to nine singing males by 29th, while other singing male counts comprised one at Arrow Valley North, three at Ashmoor Common, one Clifton Pits, three at Grimley, five at Kinsham Lake, two at Longdon Marsh, seven at Lower Moor and several at Upton Warren. Late records were of one at Kemerton on September 15th and Gwen Finch Wetland on 22nd. Staffs First seen on April 18th at Drayton Bassett Pits and Blithfield the following day, arrival dates were much later than last year (13th). Numbers quickly built up though with 10 at Alrewas at 13 singing at Doxey by the month end. Birds were present and presumably bred at 31 sites including Belvide (c.15 pairs), Berry Hill (seven territories), Blithfield (four territories of which three probably bred), Doxey (51 territories, cf. 49, 72 and 85 in previous three years) and River Sow Meadows (14 birds). There does appear to have been an expansion in the county with more sites reported this year than previously. The last birds were one at Doxey and two at Tittesworth on August 31st, followed by one at Essington Quarry Pool on September 14th. W Mid Breeding occurred at Marsh Lane NR (at least 12 pairs, similar to last year), whilst birds lingered during the breeding season at Clayhanger and Sandwell Valley, but nesting was not confirmed. One bird was recorded in Sutton Park (Longmoor) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Two birds were seen at Sneyd on April 17th, with singles in Smestow Valley on 30th and May 3rd, and two on 4th, and singles at Winson Green on May 2nd, Dunstall Park on 4th and 7th, Elmdon Park and Lutley Wedge on 5th and Brueton Park on June 10th.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Long-term average: April 23rd (68) to September 28th (62) 8-year average: 14th April (–9 days) to October 7th (+9 days) First arrival on the early date of April 6th at Bittell Reservoirs; the last was on October 13th at Marsh Lane NR. Warks The species was reported from 33 sites in the breeding season, with again some declines in density noted. Among the more notable counts were: seven at Abbots Salford, a minimum of 25 at Brandon (where ten pairs in East Marsh ditch produced 30 young), nine in the Dosthill-Kingsbury area, eight at Lower Radbourn, 35 at Napton Res, 23 at Salford Priors GP and ten at Wormleighton Res. The first spring migrants were of two at Napton Res on April 13th and one at Salford Priors GP on 20th, with the main passage commencing on 22nd. The final autumn birds were noted at Brandon on September 21st and Napton Res on 23rd.

173 Worcs A very early arrival concerned one at Bittell Reservoirs on April 6th, while another early arrival was of one at Upton Warren just three days later. Maximum counts of singing males during May comprised one at Arrow Valley Lake, five at Berwick Brook, 16 at Grimley, 42 at Gwen Finch Wetland, seven at Hewell Grange, 30 at Kinsham Lake while ten pairs bred at Lower Moor. Late records comprised singles at Kinsham Lake and Grimley on September 26th and Gwen Finch Wetland on 28th. Staffs The first bird was recorded at Belvide on April 18th, then one at Aqualate the next day. Breeding was reported at Apedale CP (eight territories), Aqualate (“common”), Astonfields Balancing Lakes (two), Barton GP (one), Belvide (15+), Berry Hill (two), Blithfield (one), Branston GP (two+), Branston Water Park (two), Chasewater (six), Copmere (six), Croxall NR (two), Croxden Quarry (four), Cuckoo Bank (one), Doxey (23 territories, cf. 18, 17 and 20 in previous three years), Ford Green NR, Hales Hall Pool (one), Handsacre Flash (10), Ingestre (one), River Sow Meadows (six), Seighford, Stoke – Sideway (one), Sugnall, Tittesworth (one), Tixall Bridge (five), Uttoxeter Quarry (one), Walton Hall (five), Westport (four) and Whitmore (one). The last sightings were at Hales Hall Pool on September 20th and Belvide on 21st. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR (at least 18 pairs cf. 15 in 2007 and 16 in 2006) and Sandwell Valley (about six pairs) and were present during the breeding season at Blythe Valley CP (four recorded on June 1st and July 13th), Clayhanger, Edgbaston Pool and Sheepwash UP. Passage birds were noted at Winson Green on May 29th and Goscote Valley on July 21st. The first at Marsh Lane NR on April 22nd and the last on October 13th represented the earliest and latest, respectively, at the reserve.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Erratic, and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally numerous in invasion years (9/10). Warks The first bird of a small influx was seen in Leamington Spa on November 5th ADW and this was soon followed by a flock of at least 12 feeding on haws at Rowington on 16th JPar. In early December, another bird was watched feeding on haws at Fenny Compton on 3rd JJB, while five were found by the golf course at Robey’s Lane, Alvecote on 4th JHa. No more were seen until December 23rd when two appeared at Brandon, with one again there on 29th BMCG. On Christmas Day a bird was found in the Addison Road area of Rugby, while numbers increased there from five on 26th-27th, to eight on 28th, ten on 29th-30th and 12 on 31st JFCJ, RCM et al. Other reports during this period included three at the Shires Retail Park in Leamington Spa on 29th JJB, with probably one of these at nearby Heathcote on 30th JAC, and one in Ryton-on-Dunsmore on 31st several observers. Worcs A flurry of records during the second half of December comprised two at Kidderminster on 19th TSm, five at Droitwich on 23rd rising to 21 on 25th WDu et al., one at Hartlebury Trading Estate on 23rd MSo, ten at Wychbold from 24th rising to 21 on 25th and 27th MWilli, RLaw et al., two at Pershore on 25th RAP, and seven were at Suckley on December 27th, rising to 10 on 28th and 13 from 29th to 31st FHe. Staffs A national influx during the winter period resulted in a good build up of birds by the year end, the largest flock being 93 at Chasewater on December 31st. The first arrival of four birds was at Codsall on November 22nd, with regular flocks as follows: two at Tittesworth November 27th-30th, up to five at Cannock Chase – White House 30th- December 4th, up to 13 at Rugeley 9th-13th, up to nine at Codsall 9th-15th, up to 26 at Shutt Green 23rd-31st, up to 23 at Basford 24th-31st and up to 93 at Chasewater from

174 27th-31st. There were additional short-staying flocks at Baddeley Green (50), Baggeridge CP, Berry Hill, Blackbrook Bird World, Broad Meadow, Clayton, Hanley, Iverley Park Farm, Leek, Red Street, Shipley, Stafford, Talke, Tamworth, Trescott, Uttoxeter (15) and Weston Coyney (15) – showing a good spread throughout the county. W Mid The only record during the early part of the year concerned three birds in Gornal on March 9th and five the next day CRe. During December, there were three at Aldridge on 23rd GKN, 30 in Sutton Park on 24th SMH and five in Kings Heath Park on 26th JKC. Unsubstantiated records included nine birds at Wednesfield on November 25th, six at Pendeford on 27th, two at Norton from 29th to December 1st and one on 19th, two at Sutton Coldfield on 15th, ten on 16th-17th, eleven on 19th-20th and ten on 21st, 17 at Minworth on 17th and 16 from 18th-20th, two at Tipton on 24th, 14 at Wolverhampton on 29th and 22 on 30th, at least 20 at Aldridge and at least two at Wightwick also on 30th, and two at Caldmore on 31st.

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common to common resident. Warks It was widely reported in the breeding season, with nine singing males located in Bentley Woods and nine at Compton Verney (as in 2007). Other breeding records included three pairs in Oakley Wood, two pairs at Long Marston Camp and single nests at both Brandon and Wormleighton Res. Winter counts included 12 at Earlswood on January 4th, seven in the grounds of Warwick Castle on 5th and seven at Copt Green on February 10th. Worcs Four pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledging 23 young, while at least two pairs bred at both Kemerton and Wood Norton and Bredon Hill continued to hold many breeding pairs. Further records came from Arrow Valley North, Arrow Valley South, Bittell Reservoirs, Chase End Hill, Croome Park, Foxlydiate Wood, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Kemerton Park, Lickey Hills, Lion Wood, Monk Wood, Overbury Park, Shrawley Wood, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool, Wick, Wood Norton and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Pairs with fledged young were recorded at Acton, Belvide, Biddulph, Cannock Chase, Cheddleton, Copmere, Cotton’s Wood, Creswell, Hanchurch Woods, Ingestre, Keele University, Maer, Perton, River Dane Gig Hall, Rudyard, Tittesworth, West End Stoke and Wettonmill. 13 at Keele University on January 5th and 11 at Trentham Gardens on December 27th were the highest counts. W Mid Two territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year and one more than the 17 year average. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 12 birds in ten of the transects and five of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central and south) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also recorded during the breeding season at Aldridge, Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Bradmore, Brueton Park, Cole Valley (four singing), Coundon Wedge, Daisy Bank, Dorridge Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Haden Hill Park, Harborne NR, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least two pairs), Pedmore, Priory Park, Ravenshaw, Reedswood Park, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Walsall Arboretum, Walsall Golf Course, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and most of the woodlands in the Coventry/Solihull area. Also noted in Allesley Park, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Bury’s Hill, Cannon Hill Park, Cornets End, Great Barr, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, Kings Heath Park, Lightwoods Park, Lutley Wedge, Malvern Park, Olton Mere, Penn, Ravenshaw, Sheepwash UP, Tettenhall and Wordsley. High count included five

175 in Coundon Wedge on February 16th, Elmdon Park on March 24th and Berkswell on April 14th, and eight at Norton on December 29th.

Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks A common bird in Warwickshire’s wooded areas, with counts of breeding pairs at: Brandon (three-four on the reserve), Farnborough Park (four), Itchington Holt (ten), Long Marston Camp (three), Morton Bagot (four), Oakley Wood (15) and Wormleighton Res (five in the area). Counts suggest a fairly stable population. Worcs A single pair that nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledged five young. Additional breeding season records came from Arrow Valley North, Arrow Valley South, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon Hill, Busk Coppice, Chase End Hill, Diglis, Eardiston, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Hewell Grange, Holt, Ipsley Alders, Lion Wood, Lower Moor, Monk Wood, Shrawley Wood, Snell’s Wood, Stoke Bliss, Stonyford, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool, the Wyre Forest and Wood Norton where a pair was observed with several young on May 17th. Staffs Pairs bred at Blithfield, Croxden Quarry, Doxey, Hanchurch Woods, Hill Chorlton, Meaford Farm and Tittesworth. Five at Coombes Valley and Hanchurch Woods were the highest counts; otherwise one to four birds were reported from 56 other sites throughout the county. W Mid One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to two last year and the 17 tear average of one. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of five birds in five of the transects and three of the watercourses: Merritts Brook and Sutton Park (Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Berkswell, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge Park, Elmdon Park, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least three pairs cf. up to three last year), Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Stevens Park and most of the woodlands in the Coventry/ Solihull area. Also noted at Blythe Valley, Cornets End, Edgbaston Reservoir, Grange Wood, Merrions Wood, Norton, Olton Mere, Penn, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley, Tettenhall, Tipton, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Wollaston. The maximum total was of four birds Norton on December 29th.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Warks Breeding territory counts included 22 at Brandon (as in 2007), 28 in 62 ha at Kingsbury Wood, 54 in 190 ha at Long Marston Camp and 37 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot. The total of 102 logged at DMC Kineton in May maintains the high numbers there, where the mean figure for the previous 20 years is 61. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum. Staffs 13 pairs were logged at Berry Hill (25 in 2007), 60 at Doxey (cf. 55 in 2007, 70 in 2006, 58 in 2005) and an estimated 70 at Maer Hills. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 307 birds in 66 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 51 territories were recorded, compared to 61 last year, but still above the average of 46 over

176 the last 17 years. An estimated 18 or 19 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to 20 last year. Highs of 23 birds were counted in Coundon Wedge on March 15th (compared to 26 in May last year) and 21 along the Grand Union Canal near Knowle.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Two pairs bred on the reserve at Brandon, while 14 breeding territories located in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp were mainly in Hybrid Black-poplar Populus x canadensis. The only large roost documented this year was at Brandon, where from 10- 30,000 were estimated using reedbeds from late October to late November. A large (but uncounted) roost was again present at Lighthorne at both ends of the year, while 5000 were collecting at Longbridge STW on December 19th before flying west to an unknown roost site. During the first quarter the largest feeding flocks occurred on January 27th when 1500 were at Lawford Heath and 700 at Priors Hardwick. Autumn passage was noted at several sites between October 22nd and late November, including 4000 south over Draycote on October 29th, 1200 more there on 30th, and 700 moving west over Bush Hill, Flecknoe and 800 over Grandborough on November 1st. A flock of 750 migrants was at Salford Priors GP on November 2nd, with a maximum of 1000 recorded at Fenny Compton on 27th. Worcs 390 at Little Comberton on February 4th, 10,000 at Coopers Lane, Evesham on 18th and 19th, 101 at Wick on March 10th, 120 at Stoke Bliss on March 22nd, 400+ roosted at Upton Warren during the first week of July with 400 there in late August and early September. During July, 600 were seen daily at Throckmorton Landfill while 1,500 were present on August 17th, 2000 on November 2nd and 2000 on December 27th and 28th. 670 at Birlingham on December 26th. Staffs In the first winter period, the large roost at Aqualate from late last year had moved elsewhere and the only significant roosts recorded were 10,000 at Black Brook Wildlife Park, 10,000 at Coldmeece and 2,000 at Doxey. Up to 3,000 birds visited the Swynnerton Landfill site during the day and were seen to head off NW to roost, and 4,000 birds collected in a pre-roost at Uttoxeter. Elsewhere, there were 500 at Berry Hill, Keele Yew Tree Farm, Rickerscote and Roddige Farm, 550 at Lower Hatton, 750 at River Dove, Fauld and 1000 at Hanchurch Woods. It is disappointing to report that the only treble- figure post-breeding flock in June was of 200 birds at Berry Hill although a flock of 130 at Waterfall on August 23rd also contained 100 juveniles. In August and September, the largest flocks were 715 at Doxey, 300 at River Sow Meadows, 250 at Berry Hill and 100 at Alrewas. Visible migration was observed between September 21st and October 30th, usually in small numbers of less than 50 but peaking from October 24th when groups varying in size from 20-200 were seen passing west over Alton all day, 294 west over Black Bank during the early morning of 25th and 1000 over Blurton on 30th. In November, the Aqualate roost built to at least 40,000, at Alton a “huge flock a mile wide” was seen heading to roost (presumably the Black Brook roost) with another estimate of 13,000 being made, 3500 roosted at Doxey and 500 at Chasewater. Roost dispersal was also recorded during November with 3000 over Black Bank and 1000 over Westport (presumably from the same roost). Other significant counts were 500 at Stableford on October 24th, 1000 at Burston on 29th, 2000 at Tittesworth and 5000 at Waterfall on November 1st, 700 at Crossplains on 7th, 2000 at Castern Hall on December 3rd, 3000 at Croxden Quarry on 6th, 550 at Berry Hill on 8th, 340 at Newstead on 19th and 3000 at Swynnerton Landfill on 23rd.

177 W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of 244 birds in 31 of the transects and 12 of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge).

Skywatch totals October November 25th 31st 1st 14th 15th Smestow Valley 271 940 775 520 610

At Marsh Lane NR, 200 to 300 birds roosted to the east of the reserve during January and February, and a roost of variable numbers up to 220 built up in the reserve reedbed from August 23rd into early September. Other high counts included 120 birds at Berkswell on January 2nd, 100 plus at Aldridge on 5th, about 250 at Dunstall Park on 13th and March 16th, about 400 on September 6th and over 300 on October 7th, 130 at Alum Rock on June 10th, 150 at Willenhall on October 23rd and roosting flocks including over 250 in Sandwell Valley on 29th.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus Frequent resident in north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Rare elsewhere. Worcs A pair was recorded on a regular basis throughout the year at Dowles Brook while two were noted along the River Rea on January 28th and two were also at Gladder Brook on September 26th. Staffs There were 64 records from 26 sites this year (62 records at 23 sites last year) on the streams and rivers of the North Staffs Moors and also at Knypersley Reservoir and Biddulph Grange. Breeding was confirmed or suspected at Back Forest, Bearda, Beresford Dale, Cotton Dell, Danebridge, Dovedale (c. three pairs), Ecton, Ilam, Knypersley Reser- voir/Greenway Bank CP and Dipper by Phil Jones Wolfscote Dale. Other sites included Consall CP, Coombes Valley RSPB, Dimmingsdale, Hall Dale, Hawksmoor, Manifold Valley, Massey’s Wood, Mayfield, Milldale, Rive Dane at Gig Hall, Swainsley, Tittesworth, Warslow and Wettonmill.

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 30th (52) to October 27th (46) 8-year average: March 25th (–5 days) to November 6th (+10 days)

178 First arrivals on April 2nd at Clent Hills and Darby’s Hill and more widely over the next few days. Last seen on October 13th at Berry Hill; a more rapid departure than of late. Warks Following a male on the Fenny Compton Hills on April 3rd JJB, up to four (three males and a female) were by the quarry at Napton Hill from 16th-22nd MD-L, TMa, RCM et al. There were no autumn records. Worcs An excellent spring passage occurred during April where Clent Hill hosted singles on 2nd and 8th, six on 16th, three on 17th and one on 28th and 29th while one was on nearby Walton Hill on 17th. Elsewhere, two were on Bredon Hill on 8th, followed by one on 12th, three on 13th, three on 17th, five on 20th, one on 21st, five on 23rd, three on 25th and four on 26th and 28th, while on the Malvern Hills all records came from British Camp with three on 11th, two on 12th and singles on 18th, 22nd and 26th. Singles were also noted at Wassell Grove on 16th and 17th while two were present on 18th and 19th. Away from the traditional hotspots, singles were at Windmill Hill on 12th and Chaddesley Corbett on 23rd. The autumn passage was much less pronounced with just one on British Camp on October 3rd and three on Bredon Hill on 6th. Staffs A reasonable series of records commenced with a male singing from a bush at Mow Cop on April 4th, but it didn’t stay. After this, two males lingered at Silverdale Colliery on 7th-8th, which also hosted one on 14th-15th and another on 17th. At Belvide, a probable male flew over on 13th. At Baggeridge CP two males on 16th-17th increased to three birds on 18th and four on 20th (two males, one female and another briefly). On 22nd, two males were still present. A good fall of seven birds occurred at Knotbury on 17th and two birds lingered at the Wedgwood Monument from 21st-23rd. Following these were single birds at Chase Terrace on 25th, Chapel Chorlton on 28th, Cuckoo Bank on May 3rd and Swallow Moss on 8th. Juveniles from one pair were seen in June and possibly a second pair bred, but this could not be confirmed. Autumn passage was, as usual, a quieter affair, with singles at Essington Quarry Pool on September 14th and 19th, Silverdale Colliery on 27th and Berry Hill on October 13th. W Mid Single birds were noted at Darby’s Hill on April 2nd, Sandwell Valley on 9th, Park Lime Pits to Riddians Bridge on 10th, Lutley Wedge on 19th, Stourbridge cricket club on 20th and Keresley Mere on 21st.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A species which appears to be doing well in most areas, with increasing or stable totals at counted sites. Breeding territory counts included: at least ten on the reserve at Brandon, 27 in 62 ha of Kingsbury Wood (as in 2006), 50 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp, and 35 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (where numbers have increased annually since 2004). High numbers were also maintained at DMC Kineton with 138 logged there in May, the same as in 2007. Late winter counts included 56 around Hatton on January 28th and a high 74 logged in 1km square of village and farmland at Fenny Compton on February 24th. Autumn migrants began to appear from late September but were at first in very small numbers, with the first reported substantial fall of 40 at Salford Priors GP on October 12th. Influxes peaked as usual from late October-early November, with maxima of 200 estimated in the Leam Valley between Grandborough and Willoughby on October 25th and a fall of 110 at Wormleighton Res on November 4th. Both counts coincided with large influxes of other thrushes. Later counts included 80 feeding on haws along the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on December 5th and 54 around the reservoir at Shustoke on 29th.

179 Worcs Six pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum. Winter records comprised seven in an Evesham garden on October 6th, 22 at Wick on November 22nd, 12 in a Little Comberton garden December 10th and 21 in a Stoke Bliss garden on 31st. Staffs 42 pairs held territories at Doxey, well up from previous years (28, 30, 28, 26 in the previous four) and there were 36 at Berry Hill (34 in 2007). In the first winter period, typical larger counts were 23 at Derrington and Berry Hill and 24 at Doxey. In the second winter period, influxes of continental birds were noted from late September, with an excellent count of 155 at Berry Hill being made on October 28th RToo, 85 still present on November 2nd and 40 by the year end. There were 28-33 at Doxey during October- December, 35 at Tittesworth on October 11th and 41 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich on November 15th. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 17 territories were recorded, a further decline on last year’s record low of 19 and well down on the average of 28 over the last 17 years. At least nine pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to ten last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 368 birds in 68 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts in the first half of the year included 36 birds in Coundon Wedge on February 16th and 32 on March 1st, 35 in Elmdon Park on 24th and 25 at Penn on April 25th. Later in the year, 29 birds were counted in Allesley Park on August 30th and 33 in Coundon Wedge on October 18th. In November, there were 20 birds at Berkswell, 22 at Tettenhall and 30 plus between Park Lime Pits and Riddian Bridge on 22nd. Counts in December included 27 at Warrens Hall NR on 3rd, 31 at Dunstall Park on 14th, 35 in Coundon Wedge on 20th, 69 at Norton on 29th and 15 feeding on apples in a Westwood Heath garden on 31st. At least two migrants flew over Smestow Valley with other thrushes on October 31st, with five plus on November 1st. Other high counts included up to 15 at Marsh Lane NR on November 8th and at least ten on 22nd.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs. Moors 1974-77, 1980 and 1985. Long-term average: September 30th (73) to May 3rd (72) 8-year average: September 24th (–6 days) to May 6th (+3 days) A late arrival with the first birds not seen until October 4th at Alcester Heath while the last were on May 2nd at Gaydon. Warks It was generally abundant during the first quarter in southern, central and eastern Warwickshire, with maxima of 3000 at Lawford Heath on January 13th, 1200 at Gaydon on 20th, 1350 at Wasperton on 26th and again on February 22nd, 2000 at Priors Hardwick on January 27th and 1600 at Eathorpe on 28th. Counts of 4-600 also came during this period from Calcutt, Charlecote, Chesterton, Cubbington, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Knightcote, Northend and Southam; while 400 at Wishaw on March 5th was the best in the north. In April flocks of up to 100 were still widespread during the first two weeks, with 185 at Napton Res on 5th being the highest count. Small numbers were subsequently seen at several sites in the third week up to April 23rd, with a late bird at Gaydon on May 2nd the last report. Return passage was perhaps a week later than average, with the first reports of nine at Alcester Heath on October 4th and two over Rugby on 8th. Continuous passage

180 did not commence until October 17th when 40 appeared at Shrewley; while widespread west/south-westerly passage of small flocks over the next two days included 350 over Ladywalk on 18th and 600 over Draycote and 200 over Brandon on 19th. On October 25th at least 220 feeding on crab-apples between Priors Hardwick and Wormleighton was the first large count in the south-east, and on the same day an estimated 2300 flew south-west down the Leam Valley between Grandborough and Willoughby. Another huge movement south occurred between Rugby and Flecknoe on October 30th and 450 appeared at Fenny Compton. Subsequently, 500 flew west at Grandborough and 200 moved west at Bush Hill, Flecknoe on November 1st, with 220 west at Salford Priors GP next day. Another large south-westerly movement occurred across eastern and southern areas on November 7th, with the main influx occurring over the next two weeks when many flocks of up to 300 were reported. Among the largest counts at this time were 1200 at Knightcote on November 8th, 400 at Northend on 12th, 2000 milling around at Fenny Compton and a peak of 1700 at nearby Wormleighton Res on 14th, 550 at Farnborough on 15th, 380 at Napton Res on 20th, 400 at Calcutt on 22nd, and 2500 at Fenny Compton on 27th. In December, there were 800 feeding on berries along the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 5th, 600 at Priors Hardwick on 6th, 450 at Charlecote GP on 15th, a peak of 600 at Grandborough on 17th, and 500 at Lawford Heath on 21st. The best count in the north at this time was just 200 at Caldecote on December 29th. A white-headed bird was at Moreton Morrell on November 22nd. Worcs Notable counts during the first winter period comprised 500+ at Besford on January 2nd, 50 at Norchard on 16th, 300 at Wick on 20th, 200 over Upton Warren on 23rd, 1,000 at Lower Moor on 25th, 80 at Podmoor on February 3rd, 290 at Little Comberton and 120 at Lenchford on 4th, 600 near Kempsey Ham and 450 at Smithmoor Common on 6th, 400+ at Clevelode on February 10th, 290 at Holt on March 6th, 170 at Wick on 10th, 105 at Elmley Castle on 16th, 800 at Kemerton and 500 at Lower Moor on 20th, 300 at Stoke Bliss on 22nd, 400 at on 23rd, 110 at Arrow Valley North on April 13th, 250 at Stoke Bliss on 21st, and 50 at Bredon Hill on 22nd and one there on 25th. Early returning birds comprised two at Bredon Hill and one at Upton Warren on October 13th being followed by 40 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 19th and 150+ on November 16th, ten at Grimley on October 25th, 350 at Sheriffs Lench on November 8th, 1000 at Lower Moor on November 3rd while 400 were there on 10th and 500 on 13th, 100 at Upton Warren on 18th, 55 at Wick on 22nd, 190 at Little Comberton on 25th, 60 at Norchard on December 21st. Staffs Significant flocks were widespread in the first winter period, as follows: in January at Cuckoo Bank (200), Hanchurch Woods (250), Hill Chorlton (300), Maer Hills (600), Park Hall CP (100), Tittesworth (150) and Tuters Hill (450); February at Beffcote (137), Blithfield (126), Branston GP (100), Hanchurch Woods (150), Napley (100), Orgreave (140) and Roddige Farm (100); March at Church Eaton (300), Cuckoo Bank (100), Hixon Airfield (200), Jackson’s Bank (100), Moreton Brook (100), River Sow Meadows (150), Sutton (180), Tittesworth (100), and Woodhead (150). A remarkable flock of 5000 Fieldfares and Redwings (roughly 50:50) flew north over Lower Hatton on February 16th at 7.30am and 120 flew north over Belvide on March 25th. Unusually, there were still large flocks around in April with 100 at Rileyhill on 3rd, 700 at Belvide on 4th, 200 at Round Knowl Farm on 5th, 250 at Tixall Wide on 7th and 100 at Ingestre on 15th. The last birds were 27 at Yoxall and four at Red Street on 23rd and one at Knypersley on 26th. With a high pressure system and strong easterlies over Scandinavia in mid-October, this year’s autumn passage commenced with a sudden and large influx on 18th and 19th

181 instead of the usual trickle. First to arrive were seven at Tittesworth on October 16th and one at Ingestre on 17th. The larger flocks were 262 SW over Belvide, 600 at Blithfield and 270 SW over River Sow Meadows on 18th, 520 at Berry Hill and 280 at Chasewater on 19th, 500 west over Belvide on 29th, 540 at Berry Hill on 30th and 400 at Belvide on 31st. In November, numbers remained high, with 250 at Barton GP, 500 at Belvide, 1100 at Berry Hill, 150 at Blithfield, 210 at Crakemarsh, 240 at Hixon Airfield, 500 at Ipstones, 200 at Tittesworth and 2-3000 at Uttoxeter Quarry being the best. In December there were 150 at Belvide, 100 at Berry Hill, 500 at Cannock Chase – Brocton Field, 250 at Croxall NR, 400 at Glutton Bridge, 200 at Hanchurch Woods, 100 at Mere Hill, 110 at Newstead and 100 at Park Hall CP. W Mid The highest counts during the first winter period involved 60 birds in Lutley Wedge on January 30th and 90 on February 23rd, 75 at Marsh Lane NR on February 7th, 60 at West Bromwich on 28th-29th, 181 at Clayhanger on March 14th, about 50 at Bury’s Hill on 15th, 45 in Elkin Wood on April 4th, 200 at Harvest Hill on 11th and 70 at Benton’s Green on 22nd. Smaller numbers were noted at Ackers, Aldridge, Berkswell, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Hampton in Arden, Harborne, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, Marsh Lane NR, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Selly Oak, Smestow Valley and Westwood Heath. Away from the tabulated sites, there were 130 birds in Reedswood Park on October 18th, 300 through Marsh Lane NR in one hour on 24th (a site record), 325 at Clayhanger on 30th, 75 over Tettenhall on November 8th and 100 plus at Dunstall Park on 15th and Marsh Lane NR on November 17th. Birds were also seen at Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Cornets End, Harborne, King’s Heath, Kingswinford, Norton, Ocker Hill, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Winson Green, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley.

Skywatch totals October November 18th 19th 28th 29th 31st 1st 12th 14th 15th Barr Beacon – – 3 175 – – 135 – – Smestow Valley 415 11 – – 200 155 – 185 325

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined, though still abundant, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A total of 38 logged at DMC Kineton in May equals the figure for 2007, and was 61% above the average for the previous 20 years. Counts of territory holding males during the breeding season included seven at Brandon (cf. 13 in 2007), nine in 1km square at Eathorpe, six along 750m of the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton, seven at Itchington Holt, and 14 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp. Autumn migrants were noted from September 27th, but counts were smaller than recently with 15 at Salford Priors GP on October 12th and 30 at Knightcote on November 8th, being the best reported. Worcs Very few records received. Three singing males were present at Upton Warren during the spring, with other breeding season records of two birds at Busk Coppice, Eardiston, Highwood and Lellow Coppice, two were noted at Castlemorton Common on January 6th and 30 were feeding in game crops at Wick from late November to mid- December. Staffs Breeding reports included Berry Hill (six territories), Doxey (12 pairs, 15, 12 and 15 in previous three) and River Sow Meadows (seven as last year). The only real sign of the autumn influx of continental birds was 20 at Berry Hill on October 14th. W Mid At least seven pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to four last year. On the

182 Mons Hill CBC plot, two territories were recorded, a further decline on last year’s three and down on the average of four over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 81 birds in 44 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Brace- bridge). Birds were also present during the breeding season at Barr Beacon, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Buckpool, Bumble Hole, Bury’s Hill, Coombeswood, Dorridge Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hampton in Arden, Harborne, Hawne Park, Ketley Quarry, Lapal, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Portway, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Stevens Park, Tettenhall, Titford Pools, Victoria Park, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Brom - wich and Westwood Heath. Twelve birds were noted at Walsall Arboretum on February 11th and nine in Elmdon Park on May 5th, whilst up to five were noted flying over Marsh Lane NR on five days from October 5th to 10th and four presumed migrants were present on November 8th and 29th, and at least one migrant flew over Smestow Valley October 31st.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: September 26th (74) to April 18th (73) 8-year average: September 22nd (–4 days) to April 27th (+9 days) First arrival on September 21st at Tittesworth and the last on April 19th at both Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res. Warks The mild winter again resulted in big flocks remaining in the county during the first quarter, with the two largest comprising a peak of 1000 at Wasperton on January 12th and 1000 at Lawford Heath on 13th. Counts of up to 150 were widely reported, with maxima of 200 at Charlecote GP on January 9th, 380 at Fenny Compton on 10th, 222 at Spernall Park on 12th, 340 at Henley GC on 27th, 300 at both Eathorpe and Yarningale Common on 28th, 200 at Whitacre Heath NR and 346 at Edstone on February 3rd, 257 at Fulready on 14th, 207 at Bearley on 17th, 200 roosting at Brandon on 22nd, 250 at Clifford Chambers and 204 at Darlingscott on 23rd, and 200 at Little Packington on March 11th. Many flocks of up to 100 stayed to late March but only very small numbers continued into the first week in April, with stragglers until 10th. The latest spring reports were of eight at Wormleighton Res and one at Fenny Compton on April 19th. The first autumn migrants began to return on September 28th, when two were seen at Morton Bagot and singles flew over Napton Hill and Whittleford Park, followed by birds over Middleton on 29th and Nuneaton on 30th. Small numbers began to trickle through daily from October 5th, with 30 over Rugby on 8th being the largest count, but the main arrival was about ten days late. The first day of significant passage was October 18th, when south-westerly passage was widely observed including counts of 70 over Lawford Heath, 100 over Ladywalk and 356 over Shustoke. Further counts of migrants, with the majority heading south-west, included 400 over Draycote on October 19th, 1100 moving down the Leam valley between Grandborough and Willoughby on 25th, 180 at Brandon on 26th, 200 over Draycote on

183 29th and several thousand estimated moving south between Rugby and Flecknoe on 30th. On November 1st there was westerly passage of 1200 over Grandborough and 500 over Bush Hill, Flecknoe. The main influx continued throughout November with flocks of 200 or more being widely reported. Amongst the larger counts were 2000 over Napton Hill and 550 at Knightcote on November 8th, a peak of 600 at Wormleighton Res on 14th, 430 in Farnborough Park and 404 at Oldberrow on 15th, 328 at Henley GC on 19th, and a peak of 1300 at Fenny Compton on 27th. In December, 400 were feeding on haws along the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 5th, while counts of 250 came from Priors Hardwick on 6th, Warmington on 9th and Grandborough on 28th. Worcs The only notable counts during the first winter period comprised 200 at Besford on January 2nd, 240 at Kington on February 16th and 120 at Wick on March 10th. Four arrived at Happy Valley on September 27th, while small numbers were also noted in early October at Arrow Valley North, Happy Valley and Upton Warren, but apart from 250 at Ryall Pits on 19th, numbers continued to remain low and comprised 25 at Bredon’s Hard - wick on 19th, 20 at Longdon Marsh on 20th, 50 at Upton Warren on November 2nd, 50 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 16th, 20 at Happy Valley on 16th, 12 at Croome Park on December 12th, 22 at Hinton-on-the- Redwing at Long Itchington, Steve Valentine Green on 22nd, 60 at Lineholt on 23rd and 15 at Happy Valley on December 27th. Staffs The larger flock sizes in the first winter period were as follows: in January at Baldwins Gate (610), Maer Hills (170), Needwood (300), Stableford (235), Tittesworth (150) and Windy Harbour (400); in February at Blake Hall Fishery (250), Orgreave (120) and Roddige Farm (100); in March at Clay Mills (100), Jackson’s Bank (100), Moreton Brook (100) and Tittesworth (120). A remarkable flock of 5000 Redwings and Fieldfares (roughly 50/50) flew north over Lower Hatton on February 16th at 7.30am. The last birds were one at Banktop Wood and 55 at Tittesworth on April 9th and one at Belvide on 13th. Autumn began in typical fashion with a gradual trickle of arrivals, the first at Tittesworth on September 21st then nine over Black Bank on 24th. Small numbers continued to be logged until a mass influx occurring on October 18th (2,400) and 19th (2,000) and subsequently at month end – in line with the Fieldfare arrivals described above. Signifi- cant counts were 507 west over Black Bank and 1539 SW over Belvide on 18th, 494 SW over Belvide, 235 at Berry Hill, 557 SW over Black Bank, 260 at Chasewater and 200 at Croxden Quarry on 19th, 140 at Berry Hill, 650 SW over Black Bank and 500 at Caverswall on 30th. November saw many large flocks, the best being at Belvide (200 on 1st and 9th, 500 on 30th), Berry Hill (220 on 9th, 1200 on 30th), Black Bank (256 south on 19th, 200 north on 20th), Cheddleton (200 on 20th), Crakemarsh Lake (250), Ipstones (500), Kingsley (250), Madeley (290) and Uttoxeter Quarry (750 on 9th). Numbers

184 remained buoyant into December, the best at Belvide (100), Cannock Chase – Brocton Field (500), Dovedale (275), Highwood (145) and Newstead (400). W Mid The only sizeable flocks during the first winter period comprised 35 birds at Berkswell on January 2nd, 40 in Lutley Wedge on 16th, 86 in Sandwell Valley on 18th, at least 40 in Stevens Park on 24th, about 50 in Lightwoods Park on February 1st, 40 in Reedswood Park and 30 in Mary Stevens Park on 20th, 60 plus in Dorridge Park on March 5th, 60 at Marsh Lane NR on 8th and 30 at Elmdon Park on 24th. Later in the year, counts away from the tabulated sites included 160 at Reedswood Park and 111 in Coundon Wedge on October 18th, 500 at Clayhanger on 30th, 100 in Lutley Wedge on 31st, 160 at Cornets End and 80 at Berkswell on November 3rd, 200 at Marsh Lane NR on 8th and about 85 at Norton on December 30th.

Skywatch totals October November 18th 19th 31st 1st 8th 12th 13th 14th 15th 18th Marsh Lane NR 330 – – 40 3370 80 50 – 170 40 Smestow Valley 585 81 600 920 – – – 313 640 –

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Warks Breeding season territories included three on the reserve at Brandon, ten in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp and eight at Upper Shuckburgh. A flock of 20 at Wolvey during early February was notable for this time of year. Post-breeding counts included 33 at Alvecote on July 14th, at least 30 at Shustoke on August 25th, 20 at Sherbourne on September 9th, 19 at Farnborough Hill on October 4th, and 25 feasting on yew berries at Compton Verney on November 29th. Parties of 12-14 were also noted at Brandon, Farnborough Park, Studley and Whitacre Heath during the same period. Worcs Four pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum while single pairs nested at Bredon Hill, Grimley, Little Comberton. A count of ten were noted at Lower Moor on May 23rd while post-breeding flocks comprised five at Eardiston on July 31st, 12 at Wick on August 4th, 14 at Lower Moor on 19th, eight at Stoke Bliss on September 1st, and an impressive 35 on Bredon Hill on 25th. Also of interest, was a leucistic individual at Upton Warren on numerous dates from February 17th until at least May 7th and 15 were in an orchard at Eastham on January 28th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at 22 sites. Post-breeding gatherings were larger than last year but still lower than usual, perhaps as a result of the poor weather, the best being 20 at Berry Hill on May 30th, 26 at Dimmingsdale on August 15th, 20 at Little Bank Top Farm on 17th, 23 at Ingestre on 19th, 29 at Westport on 24th and 22 at Berry Hill on October 14th. A very unusual record of visible migration was made at Black Bank on November 19th when three flew over very high to the east. W Mid One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as in each of the previous three years, but down on the average of two over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 18 birds in 11 of the transects and six of the watercourses: Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (south), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Bearwood, Berkswell, Bilston Cemetery, Blackheath, Bourneville, Bradmore, Buckpool, Cannon Hill Park, The Chuckery, Dorridge Park, Dudley Wood, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Goscote, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Lapal,

185 The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Penn, Priory Fields, Priory Park, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Tettenhall, Victoria Park, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods and West Bromwich. High counts included 22 at Warley Woods on June 29th and Elmdon Park on August 11th, 15 at Dunstall Park on July 20th and 40 in Reedswood Park on October 18th.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident. Long-term average: May 2nd (72) to September 28th (72) 8-year average: April 27th (–5 days) to September 26th (–2 days) The first record was on May 4th at Whitacre Heath NR with several elsewhere the next day. Last noted at Napton Hill on the late date of October 7th. Warks Confirmed or probable breeding pairs were located at: Bunkers Hill Wood, Chadshunt, Combrook, Compton Verney, Farnborough Park (six, cf. three in 2007 and nine in 2006), Fenny Compton (only two, cf. a peak of nine in 2006), Grandborough, Itchington Holt, Long Marston Camp (two), Middleton Hall (two), Morton Bagot, Napton Hill, Oakley Wood, Packington Park (one-two), Priors Hardwick, Ragley Park, Sawbridge, Shuckburgh Hills and Park (five), Ufton Fields and Wolfhamcote. In all it was reported from a total of 34 sites during the breeding season, with the majority coming from southern districts. The first spring arrival was at Whitacre Heath NR on May 4th with mid-month seeing most firsts. Autumn passage was widely reported, particularly at certain northern sites where breeding has now ceased. Maxima included four at Alvecote on August 24th and up to five at Seeswood Pool from September 2nd-18th. Counts at Napton Hill, where often the largest numbers have been seen in recent years, were below average with peaks of eight on August 28th-29th and seven on September 23rd, with four still present as late as 28th. Late reports involved singles at Alvecote on October 1st, Whitacre Heath NR on 3rd and Napton Hill on 7th. Worcs One pair nested at Bodenham Arboretum while a pair was present at Broome throughout June. One at Kemerton on May 5th and 7th, one at Hewell Grange on 8th, two singing males were noted at Bredon Hill on 11th, one at Gwen Finch Wetland on 12th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th, two singing males at Kyre on 18th, one at Oakley Pool on 29th, one at Hewell Grange on June 6th, single pairs at Sheriff’s Lench on 7th and Birlingham on 12th, one at Upton Warren on 20th, one at Woodbury Hill on 24th, one at Upton Warren on July 2nd, with two there on 7th and one on 15th, two at Stoke Bliss on 4th, three at Lickmoor Wetland on 11th, seven at Gwen Finch Wetland on 25th with five there on 31st, five still on August 1st, one on 7th and three on 14th. two at Bredons Hardwick on 7th, one at Grimley on 8th, one at Upton Warren on 9th, one at Bredon Hill and two in the Wyre Forest on 15th, one at Shenstone and four (including two juveniles) at Croome Landscape Park on 28th, two at Longdon Marsh on 29th, one at Grimley on September 2nd, singles at Hollybed Common and Throckmorton on 7th, Upton Warren on 13th, 19th, and 23rd, and two at Hollybed Common on 19th. Staffs Starting with two at Berry Hill on May 5th, then singles at Dimmingsdale, Gailey and the Stepping Stones the next day, it took until the end of the month for more than two birds to be logged, with four at Tittesworth on 31st. The number of breeding sites has increased due to better coverage as part of the BTO Atlas project. The species is likely to be in decline despite upward trend in the figures. Juveniles were seen at Balterley, Belvide, Beresford Dale, Hanchurch Woods, Knypersley Reservoir, Middle

186 Hulme, Tittesworth and Wettonmill. Autumn numbers were even lower than last year, the most being three at Aqualate on September 6th, Hanchurch Woods on 10th and Berry Hill on 18th. The last birds were two at Belvide on September 23rd and one at Doxey on 28th. W Mid The only breeding record concerned a successful pair at Berkswell. Other spring records involved single birds at Buckpool on May 18th, Sandwell Valley during May, Temple Balsall on June 4th, Fen End on 9th and Barston during June. In the autumn, up to three birds were noted at West Bromwich from August 15th to September 18th, whilst in Sutton Park, eight birds on September 2nd gradually reduced to five on 8th, three on 21st and the last one on 23rd. Elsewhere, three birds were seen at Sheepwash UP on August 21st, and singles visited Smestow Valley on 18th, Pelsall North Common on 22nd, Goscote Valley on 22nd and September 10th-13th, Allesley Park and Lutley Wedge on August 30th, Dunstall Park on 31st and Barr Beacon on September 18th. The last was at Sutton Park on September 23rd.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks Counts of breeding territories included 21on the reserve at Brandon (cf. 17 in 2007), 30 in 62 ha at Kingsbury Wood, 74 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp and 19 on 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot, where numbers are very stable. A continued increase was noted at DMC Kineton, where the total of 120 logged in May was the highest ever count there (cf. a mean of 52 there over the previous 20 years). Outside the breeding season counts of 20-30 per tetrad came from many sites, with 58 logged at Kingsbury WP on January 22nd and 28 located in just 1km square of village gardens and farmland at Fenny Compton on February 24th. A bird sporting largely white wings and tail was seen at Caldecote on December 29th. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged 10 young. Elsewhere, a juvenile was noted at Grimley on July 14th and counts of eight at Wick on May 18th and ten there on October 18th were the only other records received. Staffs 22 pairs held territories at Doxey (30 in 2007) and 16 at Berry Hill. The largest counts were 25 at Derrington on February 9th and 26 at Tittesworth on October 11th. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 53 territories were recorded, the highest total since monitoring began in 1992, compared to 46 last year and the average of 33 over the last 17 years. An estimated 15 or 16 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to 17 last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 189 birds in 64 of the transects and all of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west), Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor Valley and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts elsewhere included 33 birds in Coundon Wedge on March 15th and 37 on September 6th, 20 at Elmdon Park on March 24th, 22 at Bury’s Hill on 31st and 40 at Allesley Park on August 30th.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident, increasingly confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Long-term average: April 20th (73) to July 28th (23) 8-year average: April 20th (0) to July 2nd (–26 days) First arrival on April 17th at Alvecote; there were no last date sightings.

187 Warks A spring migrant was seen at Alvecote on April 17th and then heard in song on 21st RLS; with another heard calling at Brandon on April 20th TMa. The first to be heard at DMC Kineton was on April 27th and up to three were singing there during May PDo et al. For the third year in succession there were no other breeding sites located, and its future as a county breeding bird appears very bleak. Worcs Up to two singing males were noted at four separate locations in the south of the county from late April and in to May.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Double the usual average of records this year was noteworthy, including the first possible breeding record for twenty years. A male was present for at least two weeks in suitable habitat during the breeding season at an industrial site in the Coleshill area, and was joined on one occasion by a female GCu. A female which may have over-wintered was seen at a private site in the Long Itchington area on February 29th per JJB. Another female- type bird, first seen about the same time in Hampton Lucy, was still there on March 16th CAr. Further spring records included a male singing at Rugby Cement Works on March 15th JFCJ but not heard subsequently, a female at Bilton High School (also Rugby) on 28th-29th JFCJ et al. and one at Draycote on April 13th-14th DDix, JPa. Draycote had the only autumn bird, on October 4th JFCJ, RCM et al. Worcs A first-winter male frequented Grimley from February 3rd to March 25th GArm, MJI el al but often remained very elusive during its stay. Later in the year a female/ immature was noted on Bredon Hill on October 13th and 14th ELe et al. and one at Malvern Wells on December 6th and 9th many observers. Staffs An excellent series of sightings commenced with last year’s first winter/female bird at Blithfield from December 13th which stayed until January 6th. A female or first- summer male at Chasewater GEva and a male at Spode, Stoke-on-Trent PJon both arrived on March 26th, closely followed by two females at Lapley NTal. The next visited Berry Hill from July 21st-22nd RToo, then a female at Doxey on September 29th SPet, a male at Lapley on November 17th NTal and finally a wintering female at West End, Stoke on December 30th-31st and into 2009 RGil. W Mid A singing male remained in Aston during the summer period JW. A first- summer male was seen at Eastern Green on April 3rd JJB, SEAP and single adult males were noted at West Bromwich on 29th REH and Warwick University Gibbet Hill Campus buildings on May 12th per JJB.

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 9th (72) to September 27th (71) 8-year average: April 2nd (–7 day) to October 3rd (+6 days) First arrival on April 4th at Bredon Hill, the last on October 5th at Castlemorton Common and Abberton. Warks It was again reported during the breeding season at Meon Hill, a likely breeding site, where a male was singing during June. The first spring migrants appeared on April 10th, when single males were noted at Alvecote, Napton Hill and Long Marston Camp. Further males were seen at Draycote on April 16th, Alvecote on 17th and at Morton Bagot from 20th-22nd, while females were at Napton Hill on April 19th and Wolvey on May 1st,

188 and lastly a singing male was at Fenny Compton on May 6th. As in other very recent years Alvecote was the main venue on return passage, with birds there fairly regularly from late June to September 20th, with a maximum of three on September 3rd and 11th. Other reports included singles at Ladywalk on August 3rd, Grandborough on 6th and 18th, Shustoke on 14th, Coton on 17th, with two at Napton Hill on 28th-29th. September singles were noted at Draycote on 2nd, 11th-12th and 17th; and at Flecknoe on 4th, Priors Hardwick from 4th-6th, Seeswood Pool on 16th and in a Rugby garden on 16th-17th. Worcs The first arrival was of one at Bredon Hill on April 4th where five pairs probably bred on Bredon Hill although at least seven singing males were on territory during May. Elsewhere, two were noted at Wissett’s Wood on April 21st, three singing males were at British Camp on May 3rd, while single singing males were also noted at Kyre on 18th, Pudford Hill and Southwood Common on 21st, Clifton Hill on May 27th, and at least 4 singing males were recorded in the Wyre Forest. Noted on spring passage at a wide variety of sites comprising singles at Shenstone on April 8th and 18th, with three present there on 19th and another on 26th, singles at Churchill on 13th and 24th, Wassell Grove on 17th and Upton Warren on 19th. Typically more conspicuous on return passage as post breeding dispersal brought daily sightings to Lower Moor from July 3rd until August 28th where it was thought at least 20 birds passed through during this period with peak counts of six on July 4th and ten on August 13th while at Bredon’s Hardwick birds were noted daily from July 15th to August 27th with peak counts of five on both July 22nd and August 16th. Elsewhere, two were at Ryall on July 11th, singles at Grimley on 14th, 21st and 31st, several around Longdon Marsh on 21st and August 7th, one at Upton Warren on July 23rd, three juveniles at British Camp on 27th, two juveniles at Holt on August 6th, singles at Stoke Bliss on 9th, British Camp on 17th and 31st, three on Bredon Hill on 15th, ten at Longdon Marsh on 29th, one at Stoke Bliss on September 1st, three at Bredon Hill on 18th and one there on 29th and single juveniles at Castlemorton Common and Abberton on October 5th. Staffs Starting with a bird at Berry Hill on April 8th, the next arrival on 10th was at the Sherbrook Valley breeding site, with other arrivals following on thereafter. There were many submissions this year, giving a strong indication that this woodland bird is doing well in the county. Other spring migrants away from breeding sites were at Cuckoo Bank on 13th, Belvide on 14th-21st with three on 17th, two at Byrkley Park and singles at Drayton Bassett Pits and Whitemoor Haye on 18th, Berry Hill on 19th, three at Blithfield on 19th with one still present on 21st, Chasewater on 21st, Berry Hill on 23rd, Gailey and Chasewater on 26th, Berry Hill on 28th and 30th and the last at Berry Hill on May 1st. Breeding and territorial birds were widespread, especially on the North Staffs Moors and was particularly encouraging despite the poor weather for the second year – many of the sites reporting fledged young. In detail; at Alstonefield, Back Forest Farm, Barleighford, Bearda (two), Cannock Chase (17+ from casual reports), Castern Wood NR, Churnet Valley, Coombes Valley (two+), Dimmingsdale (two-three), Dovedale (four+), Ecton (three), Fleet Green, Glutton Bridge, Gun Hill, Hanchurch Woods, Hawksmoor, Hayes, Hollinsclough, Little Bank Top Farm (two-three), Little Ferneyford, Ludburn, Meerbrook, Merril Grove, Narrowdale, Onecote Grange Farm, Reapsmoor, Revidge, River Dane at Gig Hall (six), Rudyard Lake, Shugborough Park, Swallow Moss (two), Thorswood NR, Tittesworth, Trentham Gardens, Warslow, Waterfall, Waterhouses, Weags Barn Reserve, Wettonmill and Wolfscote Dale. The first bird on return passage was at Doxey on June 15th, presumably a failed breeder, then one at Blithfield on 29th. In July, passage birds were seen at Belvide (eight), Berry Hill (six), Tatenhill (one) and Uttoxeter – Willow Farm

189 (one). In August, sightings were more widespread, at Beeston Tor (one), Belvide (three), Berry Hill (five), Blithfield (three), Cuckoo Bank (one), Hazelton Clump (one) and River Dove at Fauld (one). In September, there was one at Berry Hill on 6th, two on 7th, one on 11th-14th and one on 28th; at Croxall NR two on 7th, at Blithfield one on 8th, Branston GP one on 27th and at Doxey three on 26th and one on 27th-28th. W Mid One was recorded in Radleys and Sheldon during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Spring sightings involved single birds at Winson Green on April 7th, Bunson’s Wood on 8th, Dartmouth Park on 17th, Blythe Valley CP on 18th, Sandwell Valley on 19th, Ryders Mere on 20th and Fens Pools on 21st. Autumn saw an excellent run of records in Sutton Park, with the first two on August 1st and highs of six on 31st, eleven on September 2nd, ten still on 6th and the last three on 13th. In addition, single birds were noted in Goscote Valley on August 22nd and 27th, Dartmouth Park on 22nd and September 2nd, Fishleyon August 27th, Brownhills and Clayhanger on September 10th and Barr Beacon on 21st. Two birds were seen in Smestow Valley on September 3rd.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra A rare or scarce, summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Long-term average: April 23rd (72) to October 9th (68) 8-year average: April 17th (–6 days) to October 18th (+9 days) In line with recent trends, the first arrival was on April 18th at Coleshill GP and the last on October 20th at Sutton Park. Warks The first spring migrant was of a male at Coleshill GP from April 18th-21st, with further males noted at Fenny Compton on April 22nd, Brandon and Toft Farm Lakes on 26th, Salford Priors GP on 27th, Earlswood, Lighthorne Quarry and Shustoke on May 2nd and at Whitacre Heath NR on 3rd. The return passage was the best since 2003, with at least 52 recorded. The first were adults near Sawbridge on July 5th and Salford Priors GP on 13th, followed by single juveniles at Chesterton on 21st and Maxstoke on 26th. The latter bird was particularly young and still had some down on its head. Passage was then evenly spread during the period August 2nd-September 28th, with the best concentrations of three at Tysoe on September 7th, nine at Lighthorne Quarry and three on the Fenny Compton Hills on 13th, and five at Maxstoke on 15th. Good series of records came particularly from Morton Bagot and Crimscote, with one or two lingering at the latter site until October 16th. Other sites involved at this season included Alvecote, Birchmoor, Dray - cote, Grandborough, Polesworth, Priors Hardwick, Seeswood Pool and Toft Farm Lakes. Worcs Ten were noted during the spring commencing with one at Upton Warren on April 26th followed by two at Bittell Reservoirs and one at Grimley on 27th, while during May singles were noted at Throckmorton Lagoons and West Midlands Safari Park on 1st, Stone on 7th, Kinsham on 13th, Lower Park on 21st and Bittell Reservoirs on 31st. Much better numbers noted on returning migration totalling nearly forty birds, the first of which was a male at Lower Park on July 9th followed by a juvenile there on 18th, 19th and 21st and singles at Ryall from 19th to 23rd and Shenstone on 19th and 20th. A second wave of arrivals took place from late August with singles unless otherwise stated at Gwen Finch Wetland on 27th, Shenstone on 28th, two at Longdon Marsh on 29th, Grimley on 30th and British Camp and Shenstone on August 31st. September saw the bulk of the passage with singles unless otherwise stated at Westwood Pool on 2nd, two at Clifton Pits on 11th, with one there on 13th and 14th, Ryall Pits on September 13th, Barnett Brook, Bransford and two at Lower Smite Farm on 15th, two at Abberton on 18th, Shenstone on 19th, Westwood

190 Pool on 24th and 25th, Blakedown and Bredon Hill on September 25th, Shenstone on 25th and 26th, three at Longdon Marsh on 26th, North Hill on 27th, British Camp on 28th and Wilden on 30th. Further records during the first half of October comprised singles at Grimley on 2nd, Ashmoor Common from 4th to 6th, two at Castlemorton Common on 5th and singles at Bredicot on 11th, Withy Wells on 12th and finally Wilden on 13th. Staffs For the third year running, no breeding birds were observed. Two records from the North Staffs Moors comprised one at Readyleach Green on May 7th which was not seen again and a presumed return bird at The Roaches on July 25th. Spring passage was extremely poor, starting at Berry Hill on April 21st where the majority of birds were recorded, with further records on 23rd, 27th-28th, 30th (two), May 6th and 10th. Elsewhere there were singles at Blithfield on April 27th-30th, Tittesworth on 28th, Crossplains on May 2nd, Westport on 5th, Belvide on 6th, Keele University on 10th and Croxden Quarry on 17th. Return passage was better and commenced at Belvide on July 4th, followed by Berry Hill (two) and Black Bank on 19th, with regular sightings from many sites thereafter. In July, numbers peaked at four at Berry Hill on 30th and there was one at Drayton Bassett Pits on 21st. In August, there were sightings from Aqualate (two), Berry Hill (c. seven, peaking at four on 29th-30th), Blithfield, Crossplains (one most of the month), Doxey and Whitemoor Haye. In September, at Belvide (two), Berry Hill (all month, peaking at 10 on 11th and eight on 12th), Black Bank (three), Blithfield (three), Crossplains (two), Doxey, Hanchurch Woods, Ingestre, JCB Cheadle, Knotbury, Knypersley Reservoir, Uttoxeter Quarry and Wetley Moor. In October, there was one at Blithfield from 2nd-3rd, one at Berry Hill from 2nd-5th and the final bird there on 12th-13th. W Mid Spring sightings involved single birds in Lutley Wedge on April 24th and 26th, and Sandwell Valley on May 8th. More birds were noted during autumn, with two in Sandwell Valley on August 28th, one on 29th and September 2nd, two on 8th and one on October 2nd, and singles at Marsh Lane NR on September 4th, Blythe Valley CP on 30th and Sutton Park on October 14th, 18th and 20th.

Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The wintering population remained high with at least 38 located during January- February, including four at Coleshill, Grandborough and in the Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath NR area, and three at both Salford Priors GP and on the western edge of Warwick. One or two were also noted at Alvecote, Birchmoor, Brandon, Bridgetown Fields, Burton Dassett Hills, Charlecote, DMC Kineton, Dosthill, Draycote, Knightcote, Milcote, Wasperton and Wootton Wawen. At least 30 were recorded on spring passage from late February-April 5th, with maxima of six at Birchmoor on February 27th and three at Farnborough Hill on March 26th. Other sites where it was recorded during this period included Attleborough Fields, Hodnell, Lighthorne Quarry, Napton Hill, Shustoke, Tysoe and Wormleighton. During the breeding season, there were interesting reports of a bird seen at DMC Kineton on May 11th, and a female there on July 6th. Autumn passage commenced with singles at Fisher’s Mill Meadow on August 31st, Ladywalk on September 3rd and Tysoe on 7th. Subsequent passage was light and extended to about November 10th with reports from about 26 sites, which was rather fewer than in 2007. Most records concerned one or two birds only, but larger counts included up to four at Toft Farm Lakes during the last week in September, three at Ilmington Downs on October 11th, three at Tysoe on 11th-12th, three at DMC Kineton on 16th, and three at Coleshill on 21st. Other sites where it was recorded during this period included Bearley, Brandon, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Mancetter

191 Quarry, Morton Bagot, Polesworth, Rugby Radio Station and Studley. About 26 potentially over-wintering birds were then recorded from mid November onwards, the lowest total since 2004 and possibly reflecting a poor breeding season. Four were present in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area and at Salford Priors GP, three at Birchmoor, two each at Crimscote, Farnborough, Grandborough and near Tysoe, and singles at Brandon Wood, Calcutt, Chesterton, Frankton, Lighthorne Quarry, Oldberrow and Toft Farm Lakes. Worcs The Malvern Hills and adjacent commons remain the county stronghold with regular sightings throughout the year. Up to five juveniles were present at Hollybed Common during June and four juveniles were also noted there in early August while a family party present on Sugar Loaf Hill in September was presumably evidence of second brooding. Elsewhere, January-February records were typically widespread with singles unless otherwise stated noted at Ashmoor Common, Aston Mill, Bittell Reservoirs, Clifton Pits (two), Grimley (three), Gwen Finch Wetland (two), Lineholt, Lower Moor (four), Nafford, Ripple Pits (two), Ryall Pits, Shenstone, Upton Warren (three), Wick and Woodrow. Numbers increased during March, as passage commenced, and involved singles unless otherwise stated at Barnett Brook (two), Bredon Hill, Clent Hill (two), Throckmorton airfield/landfill (two), Upton Warren (two) and Woodrow (two) while a late bird at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 17th was notable. Far higher numbers were recorded during the protracted passage period from August through to early November with the following peak counts being noted (singles unless otherwise stated): Abberton, Ashmoor Common (five), Barnett Brook (four), Beoley, Blakedown (two), Bredon Hill (14), Bredons Hardwick (two), Clifton Pits (two), Frankley, Grimley (two), Gwen Finch Wetland (six), Happy Valley (eight), Holt (three), Kinsham Lake (two), Lineholt (three), Lower Moor (five), Shenstone (two), Throckmorton airfield/landfill (six), Upton Warren, Walton Hill, Woodrow (two). Presumed wintering birds present during late November and December were noted as follows (singles unless otherwise stated): Ashmoor Common (two), Beoley (two), Bredon Hill (two), Clifton Pits (two), Croome Park (four), Grimley (two), Gwen Finch Wetland, Holt (three), Lineholt, Longdon Marsh (two), Throckmorton airfield/landfill (six), Upton Warren and Woodrow (two). Staffs Birds were recorded breeding at Blore Pipe (one pair), Cannock Chase (16+), Cuckoo Bank (one pair), Highgate Common (one), and the North Staffs Moors (nine pairs). In addition, a juvenile was seen near Upper Hatton in June and was thought to have come from a locally breeding pair nearby. In the first winter period, the larger counts were six at Berry Hill and five at Doxey. The first autumn passage bird arrived at Chasewater on July 7th, followed by two juveniles at Berry Hill from 13th, staying well into September. The only double-figure counts this year were 11 at Doxey on October 19th and 12 in the Sherbrook Valley on 28th. Compared to 21 in the Sherbrook Valley in 2007 and 30 in 2007, this suggests a possible decline in numbers. In the second winter period, the larger counts were seven at Berry Hill, Cuckoo Bank and Wetley Moor. W Mid Two pairs bred in Sutton Park, raising at least two juveniles. Two pairs remained at Clayhanger through late winter. Two birds were noted in Goscote Valley on January 2nd and 16th and February 13th, with one on 27th. On January 6th, two birds were seen at Bartley Reservoir and one was at Park Lime Pits. A total of seven to eleven birds were recorded at Marsh Lane NR between January 12th and March 30th, with two present from January 12th to February 24th at least and highs of three on 24th, four on March 9th and three on 10th. Two birds were seen at Mercote Mill Farm from January 12th to March 2nd, with one in Lutley Wedge on February 8th, four on March 13th, three on 14th and one till 24th. Singles were recorded at Nailcote Farm on February 9th, Sedgley Beacon on 18th

192 and Goscote Valley on 21st. In Sandwell Valley, there were three birds on February 26th, five on March 7th and one on 20th and April 4th. Other March sightings involved two birds in Blythe Valley on 2nd and four on 9th, three at Brueton Park on 9th, Bartley Reservoir on 14th and Netherton Hill on 16th, and two at Elmdon Park and one at Bowmans Harbour on 26th. Autumn passage saw one bird in Sandwell Valley on August 29th, two on September 30th and one on October 17th and 21st, and November 3rd. In Sutton Park, four birds on September 13th rose to eight on 22nd, with seven still on October 21st. Sightings on Netherton Hill included two birds on September 26th, one on 29th, three on October 14th, one on 21st, one on November 7th and two on 12th. Two birds were seen at Bartley Reservoir on September 25th and singles visited Blythe Valley on September 17th, Barr Beacon on 21st, Dunstall Park from 29th to October 2nd, Fishley on 15th and Bowmans Harbour on 22nd. One bird in Sutton Park on December 12th was the only record in the second winter period.

2007 Corrigendum Warks The first half of the Warwickshire account was inadvertently omitted. The paragraph should begin as follows: “About 23 wintering birds were located during the first two months, with five at Salford Priors GP, four in the Charlecote-Wasperton area and three at Wootton Wawen STW. Single pairs were reported from Blythe Mill, Brandon, Compton Verney and Priors Hardwick, with singles at Birchmoor, Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill GP and Radway. Discernable spring passage ran from February 17th-March 31st at about 12 sites, including Combrook, Draycote, Ladywalk, Poolfields and Wolston, with a maximum count of five at Birchmoor on February 18th.”

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 18th (71) to October 19th (72) 8-year average: March 12th (–6 days) to October 27th (+9 days) First seen on March 7th at Cuckoo Bank and a very late bird on November 17th at Dosthill. Warks There was a rather better spring passage than last year with around 140 reported from 30 sites distributed throughout the county. The first was seen at Grandborough on March 13th and Draycote on 15th, with three more sites featuring on 16th; but passage finished early with no reports beyond May 5th. Sites with counts of three or more included: Baxterley, nine on April 26th; Coleshill GP, three on April 17th; Crimscote, up to six during April; Draycote, four on March 30th and four on April 23rd; Farnborough Hill, six on March 27th; Lighthorne Quarry, three on April 24th; Morton Bagot, three on April 22nd and 26th, four on 27th; Willoughby, ten on May 1st, five on 2nd and three on 3rd; and Wolvey, three on April 21st. After a very early juvenile was found at Draycote on July 1st, the first real return migrant arrived at that site on 31st-August 1st, with two there by 3rd. An above average total of at least 80 birds were then reported from about 18 sites across the county, with passage lasting to October 7th. Counts of three or more birds came from only three sites: Draycote, three on August 19th and four from 20th-24th, ten on September 7th, five on 12th, four on 13th, three on 14th and 26th, and three on October 2nd; Farnborough Hill, four on August 21st; and Grandborough, three on August 17th and four on 18th. Finally, a very late adult male was seen at Dosthill Lake on November 17th ARD. Worcs A pair with three fledged young were noted at Bredon Hill on May 30th. After

193 the first four returning migrants were noted at Defford, Gadfield Elm, Lower Park and Upton Warren on March 15th, another 274 were recorded at 36 sites by May 7th. Notable counts during this period comprised seven at both Bredon Hill and Throckmorton Landfill Site on March 24th, five at Westwood Pool on 25th, seven at Bredon Hill on 27th, six at Chat Valley on April 4th, five at Blakedown and eight at Shenstone on 6th, eight at Chaddesley on 7th, six at Shenstone on 8th, six at British Camp on 11th, seven at Blakedown, ten at Chaddesley Corbett, six at Grimley, five at Holt, six at Shenstone all on 27th, eight at Bredon Hill on 26th and 28th and five at Shenstone on 30th. After this pronounced late April arrival, numbers decreased rapidly with the only notable count being eight at Castlemorton Common on May 3rd. Autumn passage commenced with the arrival of a juvenile at Lower Park on July 18th with another 288 birds recorded from 33 sites between July 19th and October 27th, with notable counts comprising five at Lower Park on August 13th, five on British Camp on 14th and 17th, with seven there on 27th, five on Bredon Hill on September 1st, six at Lower Park on 2nd, five at both Barnett Brook and Ryall Pits on 7th, 11 on North Hill on 8th, six at Shenstone on 12th, five on Bredon Hill on 14th, with 12 there on 23rd, ten on both 29th and October 2nd, and five on British Camp on 3rd. Staffs An early arrival was seen at Cuckoo Bank on March 7th, the next at Hollinsclough on 16th and as can be seen on the chart below, almost daily Northern Wheatear at Draycote, Steve Valentine thereafter. Apart from 10 at Whitemoor Haye on April 12th, all other double-figure counts came from Berry Hill, as follows: 10 (April 3rd), 11 (5th), 10 (6th), 13 (7th), 10 (12th, 13th), 11 (17th), 25 (27th), 18 (28th), 15 (29th), 20 (30th), 21 (May 1st), 10 (3rd, 4th), 15 (5th) and 22 (6th). Birds of the Greenland race were noted from May 5th and it is likely that the majority of passage birds from this date onwards were of this sub-species. Breeding was confirmed only from Damgate, the Knotbury area (two-three pairs) and Three Shires Head (two-three pairs), much reduced from previous years although the poor weather may have discouraged visits from recorders. Return migration produced a very good series of records, the first at Berry Hill and a juvenile at Crossplains on July 19th, followed by singles at Blithfield on 23rd and 27th-31st. Double-figure counts came from Crossplains with 10 on August 20th, 10 at Blithfield on 27th, 14 at Berry Hill on September 1st with 20 on 6th and 12 on 7th, 10 at Crossplains on 6th, 11 at Whitemoor Haye on 7th and 25 at Berry Hill on 22nd. The last birds were at Cheadle (Compact Products Pool) on October 9th and Stoke – Sideway on 12th. W Mid Birds were seen in Lutley Wedge on 14 dates from March 15th to April 12th, with highs of four on March 22nd and 24th-25th, seven on 26th and four on April 9th. A

194 bird was present at Bury’s Hill on March 15th, with three on 31st. Single birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR on March 15th and 30th, April 4th-5th, 8th and May 8th, Steelpark Way on March 16th, Sandwell Valley on 20th, 28th, April 1st, 4th and 23rd, Elmdon Park on March 31st and two on April 3rd. Birds were seen at Dunstall Park on seven dates from April 16th to May 6th, peaking at three on April 16th and six on 27th. Birds were noted on Netherton Hill on five dates from April 18th to May 2nd, peaking at three on April 26th. Elsewhere, there were single birds in Goscote Valley on April 13th and Hobs Hole on 20th, two at Pedmore on May 2nd, and singles at Edgbaston Reservoir on 4th and West Bromwich on 30th. Return passage brought one to Hobs Hole on July 1st, singles in Sandwell Valley on 28th and August 6th, two on 22nd and one on September 7th and 15th. One was noted in Lutley Wedge on August 31st, with birds present in Sutton Park on four dates from August 31st to September 18th, including a maximum of five on 2nd, and one in Goscote Valley on 24th. Up to three birds were seen at Clayhanger on four dates.

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorhoa Rare or scarce passage migrant (9/10). Warks The only reports came from Salford Priors GP, with two males on April 27th and a female on May 5th JJB. Worcs Birds showing characteristics of this race were represented by three at Ripple Pits on April 27th GHP, one at Ryall Pits on September 29th RMas and two at Bredicot on October 3rd AWa et al. Staffs Birds showing good characteristics in the field were at Blithfield on May 5th PDH, Berry Hill on 6th with six present on 10th NDP and in the Sherbrook Valley on 23rd DWE.

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva Very rare vagrant (1/10). Warks A female or first-winter was seen intermittently in a private garden at Exhall, near Bidford during November 9th-16th Mr and Mrs MBu. Unfortunately the presence of the bird was not disclosed until after the last sighting and the owners were reluctant to grant access to visiting birders. This was the third county and regional record and coincides with a late influx of at least six more nationally during November 1st-6th, with another inland bird in Bedfordshire from 23rd-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 19th (62) to September 9th (43) 8-year average: April 13th (–6 days) to September 5th (–4 days) First arrival was on April 19th at Upton Warren And the last at Wood Hayes on September 14th. Warks A juvenile at Alvecote on September 2nd RLS was the only record. Worcs A migrant male was at Upton Warren on April 19th, while the decline in the Wyre Forest continues; a male was noted on April 16th, three on May 1st, a pair on 2nd, two males on 12th and a male on 30th. Staffs The first arrivals were at Dimmingsdale and Rudyard Lake on April 21st with another at Seven Springs the next day. The only migrant away from a breeding site was one

195 at Hanchurch Woods on 28th. Pied Flycatchers were found at 18 actual or potential breeding sites, compared with 16 last year. Coombes and Churnet Valley RSPB held the majority of breeding pairs, 40 this year compared with 42 and 41 in the previous two. An impressive 214 chicks were ringed. At Bearda, 42 chicks fledged from seven broods (with an eighth failing) and at Dimmingsdale, 31 birds ringed from six. Elsewhere, records came from Barleighford (two pairs), Bearda (several), Biddulph Grange (singing male), Cannock Chase (five territories), Consall CP, Cotton Dell (one), Deep Hayes CP (singing male), Dovedale, Ecton (one), Gradbach, Hawksmoor (one), Oakamoor (one), River Dane at Gig Hall (two), Rudyard Lake (one), Tittesworth (one ) and Trentham Gardens (two). Breeding birds had all departed by June 30th and the only autumn migrant was one at Knypersley Reservoir on August 3rd. W Mid In April, single males were noted in Road Cemetery, Coventry on 21st and Dartmouth Park on 26th. The only autumn record was of a bird seen at Wood Hayes on September 14th.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Warks There were 16 breeding territories in 190 ha at Long Marston Camp and 33 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot, the latter a slight reduction over 2007 when there were 40. A high total of 40 were logged in 1km square of village gardens and adjacent farmland at Fenny Compton on February 24th. Worcs Three pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum. Staffs There were 13 territories at Berry Hill and 23 pairs at Doxey (cf. 21 last year). 17 at Alrewas in February was the highest count elsewhere. W Mid A record 19 territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to 14 last year and the average of 13 over the last 17 years. An estimated 12 singing males were heard at Marsh Lane NR, compared to at least 17 last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 68 birds in 38 of the transects and 14 of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central, east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool and Whyndley to Breacebridge). Counts elsewhere included ten birds in Coundon Wedge on March 15th, Elmdon Park on 24th and Bury’s Hill on 31st, and eleven at Reedswood Park on April 9th and Norton on December 29th.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Only five breeding territories were located in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp, while five territories on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot was only half the total recorded in 2004, where former farm buildings have been converted into residences. A population in excess of 250 was estimated around Fenny Compton village on February 24th, but this was thought to be about 40% down on five years before. No large flocks were reported this year, with most containing around 20-35. The best were 39 at Willington on February 25th, 50 at Combrook on August 27th and 45 at Tomlow on October 14th. Worcs Very little data received. 10 breeding pairs were recorded at Lower End Farm, Lower Moor, with a post-breeding flock of 35 observed here during July and August, three

196 pairs fledged 15 young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, while flocks of 50 were noted at Wick on January 7th and Birlingham on August 5th. Staffs

Monthly maxima (p=present) JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas/Croxall – 36 18 20 18 23 9 34 – – – 4 Berry Hill 70 – 60 25 152 205 60 80 – 20 – 160 Burton-on-Trent 20 26 38 27 30 27 25 18 4 6 40 16 Doxey Marshes 27 5 14 6 31 8 18 18 12 2 5 14 Fole 30 35 30 20 27 – 38 – – – 40 40 Hill Chorlton 40 – – 35 47 25 – – – – 50 – River Sow Meadows 12 11 20 – p – – – 10 – 12 –

Apart from the tabulated flocks, other large flocks comprised 61 at Cotton’s Wood, 59 at Balance Hill, 58 at Uttoxeter, 55 at Jack Hayes, 53 at Rudyard Lake and 52 at Deep Hayes CP. W Mid Four territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to five last year and the average of four over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half- kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birming - ham recorded a total of 122 birds in 24 of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Chinn Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (east), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central and Longmoor). High counts included 55 in a Kingswinford garden on January 2nd and 40 on House Sparrow at Shustoke, Steve Seal November 24th, 40 at Acock’s Green on June 21st and 35 on July 5th and October 4th, and 30 in a Willenhall garden on December 4th.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common, though declining, resident. Warks Breeding pairs were indicated at: Beausale (four), Bramcote Hall, Chesterton, Churchover (at least five), Farnborough (at least 20), Fenny Compton (20-30), Grand - borough, Hoar Park, Knightcote, Maxstoke, Middleton, Morton Bagot (at least 15), Pillerton Hersey, Preston-on-Stour (around ten), Priors Hardwick, Salford Priors GP, Shustoke, Tysoe (ten), Umberslade, Upper Shuckburgh (five), Warmington (10-15), Watergall, Weddington (14 occupied nest boxes produced 55 fledged young) and Wormleighton. Reported flocks were mainly small with very few larger than 35, and

197 mainly in the south-east. The largest was one of 200 feeding in unharvested wheat with buntings at Priors Hardwick on December 6th. A count of 14 in a Willey garden on March 9th was a notable report from the High Cross Plateau where recent records are few. Worcs Reported from just three localities and sadly no observations were made during the breeding season. Sightings comprised two at Caunsall on January 29th, one at Shenstone on April 13th and singles at Upton Warren on November 7th and 9th. Staffs Monthly maxima (p=present) JFMAMJJASOND Alrewas –5–––6323–––– Belvide 33 50 20 31 8 20 40 30 2 3 40 40 Blithfield – 2 9 12 10 8 – – 60 – – 12 Cross Hayes 2020–––––––––– Little Stoke 5 7 – – – – – – – – 12 15 Waterfall 10 – – – 2 – 6 30 – – – – Weston Jones 19221132–11– Whitemoor Haye 20 – 4 1 6 – p 40 p – 6 18 Whitmore – Bent Lane 10 – – 2 4 7 3 50 26 20 70 40 Numbers on the whole were similar to last year other than at Whitmore, where lower counts were probably due to less suitable game crops being planted. Breeding occurred at 20 sites including Belvide (24 juveniles), Chapel Chorlton (several pairs) and Waterfall (three-four pairs). Probable breeding also occurred at a further eight sites. In total there were 41 sites which held birds in the breeding season, well up from 26 last year and 14 in 2006. Other notable counts were 16 at Burston in November, 20 at Aqualate in February and 20 at Branston GP in September. W Mid Pairs bred in four locations on farmland around Fen End. Breeding probably also occurred at Balsall Common (maximum of seven birds), Berkswell (maximum of at least 12 birds), Marsh Lane NR (maximum of 15 birds and at least two juveniles present on July 22nd-23rd) and Westwood Heath (maximum of five birds). A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded two birds in one transect along the River Rea (Cannon Hill). Elsewhere, there were up to six birds near Aldridge in January, eight at Allesley Park on August 30th, between nine and 13 birds near Park Lime Pits from October 22nd to December 3rd, at least 12 in Smestow Valley on November 14th and three at Clayhanger on December 31st.

Tree x House Sparrow Warks A hybrid male was observed closely in a Fenny Compton garden on October 9th. In 2006 a mixed-species pair was resident here, and on one occasion observed mating.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Fairly common, but declining, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 2nd (72) to October 11th (72) 8-year average: March 28th (–5 days) to October 12th (+1 day) First records on April 3rd at Marsh Lane NR, Bramcote Hall and Grandborough with the last on October 8th at Draycote. Warks A very poor year, with only nine breeding territories located at Fenny Compton (cf. 11 in 2007 and 27 in 2006) and below average breeding populations elsewhere in the county. Four pairs bred at Farnborough and at least three pairs were at Churchover, with one or two also probably breeding at: Bramcote Hall, Broadwell, Caldecote, Crimscote,

198 Dunnington, Flecknoe, Frankton, Grandborough, Haseley, Maxstoke, Napton Fields, Polesworth, Toft Farm Lakes, Tysoe, Wasperton and Wormleighton Res. The first spring migrants were noted at both Bramcote Hall and Grandborough on April 3rd and at Draycote on 5th, with six more sites having firsts by the 10th. Passage was most marked at Draycote, with double-figure counts including ten on April 14th, 25 on 17th, 40 on 18th, 16 on 21st and 15 on 25th. Abbots Salford Pool had a peak of 17 on April 17th, but no more than six together were noted at other sites. On return passage Draycote again had reasonable numbers, but mainly during September when there were peaks of 30 on 7th and 18 on 13th. Other good sized flocks during this period included maxima of 25 at Salford Priors GP on August 10th, 20 at Radway on September 7th and 20 at Fenny Compton on 13th. The species was much scarcer in the north with eight at Whitacre Heath NR on August 24th representing the best count. Passage continued to the end of September, with one later record of a juvenile at Draycote on October 7th-8th. Worcs Confirmed breeding records comprised a family party nesting in an abandoned leek crop at Cropthorne in late July while two adults with two fledged young were noted at Wick on August 4th. The first spring arrivals comprised singles at Shenstone on April 11th and Clifton Pits and Ryall Pits on 12th. Further April records were received from a further nine sites with maxi- mum counts comprising two at Bromsgrove School, five at Eckington Meadows, three at Elmley Lovett, 15 at Clifton Yellow Wagtail at Shustoke, Steve Seal Pits, 20 at Grimley, 10 at Holt, one at Malvern STW, 22 at Ryall Pits, three at Shenstone, one at Torton, three at Upton Warren and three at Westwood Pool. Lower numbers were noted during May and comprised singles at Holt on 3rd and 8th, Shenstone on 3rd and 6th, two at Grimley on 5th, with singles there on 10th and 27th, singles at Wyre Piddle on 5th and Podmore on 14th, five at Ryall on 17th, two at Lower Moor on 20th and three at Bredon’s Hardwick on 30th. Further records during June and July may have indicated local breeding and comprised singles at Grimley on many dates throughout June, one at Holt and a pair at Lower Moor on 13th, two at Ripple Pits on 15th, five at Eckington Meadows on 20th, several at Bredon’s Hardwick on 22nd, one at Shenstone on 23rd, two at Honeybourne on July 6th with one still there on 16th, one at Kempsey on 7th, two at Elmley Lovett on 11th, two at Clifton Pits on 13th and 16th where a juvenile was noted on 19th, two at Ryall Pits on 14th, singles at Bredon’s Hardwick on 20th, one at Honeybourne and a juvenile at Throckmorton Landfill Site on 27th and Upton Warren on 30th. During August, one was at Clifton Pits on 3rd, three at Bredons Hardwick and two juveniles at Kinsham Lake on August 7th, one at Grimley on 16th and 18th, four (including two juveniles) at Clifton Pits and 20 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th, one at British Camp on 20th, eight at Honeybourne on 22nd, three juveniles at Lower Park Farm on 25th, Evesham on 26th and two at Clifton Pits and

199 two juveniles at Grimley on 30th. September records comprised two at Clifton Pits and 15 at Ryall Pits on 4th, singles at Upton Warren on 5th and 11th, Clifton Pits on 7th and 8th, with 17 there on 13th, Lower Moor on 9th, four at Hartlebury on 10th, singles at Stoulton on 11th, Lower Park Farm on 19th, Blakedown on 21st, Clifton Pits on 22nd and 23rd and up to two at Grimley until 28th. Staffs The first two birds were seen at Blithfield on April 8th, then daily sightings thereafter. Early season peaks at were 10 at Whitemoor Haye on April 13th and 16th and 25 there on 21st. At Blithfield there were 18 on 16th, 15 on 17th, 24 on 18th, 40 on 20th and 10 on 21st. Breeding was confirmed from Blithfield (two pairs), Coldmeece (one-two), Fole (two), Ingestre (one+), and probably occurred near Belvide, Branston Gravel Pits, Chatcull (one), Clay Mills, Edingale (one), Keele University (one), Lower Hatton (four+ territories), Moat Hall (one-two), Rolleston Park, Shirleywitch Farm, Stableford (two-three), Uttoxeter Quarry (three territories), Whitemoor Haye (one-two pairs) and Yoxall Park (one). Late season, double-figure counts were far fewer than in previous years and suggest a very poor breeding season: 12 at Blithfield on August 19th and 14 there on 29th. The last birds were one at Blithfield on September 17th and two at Berry Hill on 20th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, birds were noted in spring from April 3rd to May 22nd, with a maximum of 13 on April 20th. Single birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on April 16th, 19th and 20th, and during May, Dunstall Park on April 16th and 22nd, and Clayhanger on 18th and 23rd. On April 21st, there were four birds at Ryders Mere, three over Keresley Mere and two at Barston Lake. Return passage saw single birds at Marsh Lane NR on four dates from July 7th to September 18th, and at Clayhanger on July 5th, Dunstall Park on August 25th, Sandwell Valley on 28th and Dorridge on 29th.

Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava Rare passage migrant, mainly in spring (9/10). Warks On April 17th when there was a marked peak in Yellow Wagtail passage, single males were noted at both Abbots Salford BGP and Draycote PDH. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Coldmeece Pools on May 10th, where a male was seen carrying food into a nesting area SJT.

Blue-headed x Yellow Wagtail “Channel Wagtail” W Mid A bird showing characteristics of this form was noted at Clayhanger on May 8th CMas.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The breeding population appears to have remained fairly stable in recent years, with nesting pairs located this year at: Brandon, Coombe Abbey, Draycote, Eathorpe, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Packington (two), Radway, Salford Priors GP, Shrewley (two), Shustoke and Wellesbourne. It was also noted during the breeding season at: Abbots Salford, Alcester, Brownsover, Charlecote, Combrook, Crackley Wood, Dosthill, Earlswood, Edstone, Great Alne, Hatton, Henley-in-Arden, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Marlcliff, Napton Res, Oversley Green, Ratley, Seeswood, Toft Farm Lakes, Walton Hall, Warwick, Wasperton, Whitacre Heath, Whittleford Park, Wootton Wawen and Worm - leighton Res. It was much more widespread outside this period, particularly on passage when parties of up to six were noted. The best counts again came from Salford Priors GP, with maxima of 13 on September 28th and ten on October 12th.

200 Worcs Single pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum fledging five young and at Lower Moor fledging two young, while a pair were noted nesting along Dowles Brook on April April 5th, and single pairs were also present at Nafford Lock and on the River Severn at both Grimley and Trimpley Reservoir. Elsewhere, records were received from Arley, Arrow Valley North, Ayton’s Heath, Bevere, Bittell Reservoirs, Clifton, Croome Park, Cropthorne, Diglis, Dowles Brook, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Holt, Hurst Coppice, Kinsham Lake, Kempsey STW, Kyre Brook, Kyre Pool, Lenchford, Lower Wick, Norchard, Perry Brook, Pershore Wetland, Stoke Bliss, Tanner’s Hill, Throckmorton Lagoons, Trimpley, Upton Warren, Westwood Pool and Wick while two migrants were noted flying south over Bredon Hill on September 25th. Staffs This bird was seen frequently in every month of the year in low numbers, the most being eight at Croxall on August 18th and six at Belvide on July 25th. Breeding was recorded or suspected at 36 sites throughout the county. Visible migration was particularly good with a total of 27 birds heading south between September 19th and October 6th, principally at Black Bank with eight on September 20th and 10 on October 2nd. W Mid Pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, Sutton Park, Tile Hill Station and Westwood Heath. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 11 birds in nine of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), Radleys and Sheldon, River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall) and Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Bourneville, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston cricket ground, Edgbaston Reservoir, Longford Nature Park, Marsh Lane NR, Netherton Reservoir, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. Individuals were also seen at Ackers, Allcott Wood, Babb’s Mill Lake, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Buckpool, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Fens Pools, Greets Green, Hampton in Arden, Harborne NR, Hill Hook, Knowle, The Leasowes, Lutley, Marston Green Park, Merrions Wood, Minworth STW, Olton Mere, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Small Heath, Solihull, Stirchley, Stubbers Green, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Walsgrave Hospital, West Bromwich, Winson Green and Woodgate Valley. Three presumed passage birds flew over Marsh Lane NR on August 29th and four on 30th.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks There were eight breeding territories in the 190 ha of Long Marston Camp. Flock size was down this year with few reports of more than 35. Spring passage was prominent at our two main reservoirs, with maxima of 90 at Draycote on March 26th and 80 at Shustoke on 27th, the latter frequenting an adjacent ploughed field. The largest post- breeding flocks were of 50 at Alvecote on August 18th and 60 at Salford Priors GP on September 14th. The only significant roost count involved at least 40 at the M6 on September 7th. Worcs One pair nested in a box at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged six young, while another nesting pair was also present and a pair was seen with young at Cropthorne. Notable counts outside the breeding season comprised 157 at Kempsey STW on January 5th, 74 at Abberton on April 7th and 80 at Abberton on October 5th. Staffs This species was seen throughout the county in every month of the year. The winter roost at Newcastle-under-Lyme was 500 on January 19th but no roost counts were made in the second winter period. Breeding was confirmed at 25 sites with usually one or

201 two pairs at each. Significant flock counts in the first winter period came from Alrewas (24), Belvide (47), Blithfield (57), Cheddleton SW (100), Clay Mills (300), Croxden Quarry (30), Curborough (124), Hanchurch Woods (80), Lower Hatton (40), Row Sow Meadows (30), Westport (33) and Whitemoor Haye (45). Even into May there were 50 still at Cheddleton on 2nd. Post breeding flocks in July and August included 50 at Blithfield, 45 at Burton-on-Trent, 45 at Byrkley Park, 30 at Keele University, 80 at Tittesworth and 30 at Tixall Wide. Southward visible migration was observed at Black Bank and Belvide between September 18th and October 30th, peaking at 22 in an hour on October 9th, otherwise typically less than a dozen; in total 111 birds were logged. In the second winter period, the larger flocks were 40 at Belvide, 89 at Blithfield and Tittesworth but these were all in September-October. The largest late winter flocks were 50 at Brancote and 37 at Blithfield in November, with 50 at Great Gate Pools in December. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of nine birds in six of the transects and five of the watercourses: Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (south), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central and Whyndley to Bracebridge). Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Buckpool, Chadwick End, Cradley Heath, Crook House, Dudley Wood, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Heronfield, Lapal, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Oldbury, Priory Park, Rattlechain Mere, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Victoria Park, Walsal Arboretum, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Woodgate Valley. High counts included about 100 birds at Lindridge STW on January 6th, 43 in Lutley Wedge on March 16th, 38 at Marsh Lane NR on 20th and 37 on 24th, 50 at Box Trees Airfield on October 17th and at least 50 landed on roofs in Birmingham Centenary Square before heading towards the city centre during late October.

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A good spring passage involving at least 55 birds was evenly spread between the extreme dates of March 11th (Draycote) and May 14th (Abbots Salford). All reports involved just one or two birds, apart from a notable flock of 21 at Salford Priors GP on April 13th. Other sites which held birds during this period were: Brandon, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton, Guy’s Cliffe, Kites Hardwick, Ladywalk, Napton Hill Quarry, Seeswood Pool, Shustoke, Willoughby and Wishaw. The only documented autumn record was of an adult at Fenny Compton on September 22nd JJB. Worcs Singles were noted at Holt on 24th and 26th, two at Grimley on 26th and one at the latter site on 30th. As is often the case records increased throughout April with sites in the Severn Valley claiming the majority of records with peak counts comprising six at Holt on 6th, eight at Clifton Pits on 13th and five there on 20th, 12 at Grimley on 20th and six there on 26th and nine at Ryall Pits on 20th, while elsewhere singles were noted at Shenstone on various dates throughout the month with two there on 8th and 17th, two at Bredon’s Hardwick on 14th, two at Upton Warren on 20th and singles at Bredon Hill on 23rd and 28th. Just one was noted in May at Holt on 17th and 18th. Single return passage birds were reported from Hartlebury on August 18th and September 7th, three at Clifton Pits on 7th, singles at Grimley on 22nd and 26th, Radford on October 1st and Shenstone on 5th. Staffs Unlike last year, an excellent spring passage commenced with a very early bird at Blithfield on March 9th with the next at Knypersley on 23rd, and two at Berry Hill and one at Blithfield on 28th. After this, birds were recorded almost daily until April 27th with

202 double-figure counts being obtained at Blithfield between 9th and 21st, peaking at 23 birds on 16th. In May, singles were seen at Uttoxeter Quarry on 4th, Crossplains on 6th and Doxey on 10th and 18th. In summary, sites and bird counts were: Belvide (one), Berry Hill (two), Blithfield (146), Branston GP (two), Chasewater (five), Crossplains (one), Doxey (10), Drayton Bassett Pits (19), Gailey (one), Knypersley (one), Moat Hall (one), Stableford (one), Tittesworth (one), Uttoxeter Quarry (17), Westport Lake (one) and Whitemoor Haye (two). The only autumn bird was seen at Uttoxeter Quarry on September 28th NDP. W Mid A good year at Clayhanger/Ryders Mere, with one or two birds noted on several dates from April 2nd-23rd including four on 21st. Also a better year than last at Marsh Lane NR, with one or two birds present on 12 dates from March 26th to April 24th including on 16th. Single birds were noted in Sandwell Valley on April 13th and 16th.

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 7th (21) to Septeber 23rd (69) 8-year average: April 1st (–6 days) to October 4th (+11 days) A rather late first arrival date of April 13th at Salford Priors GP and Cannock Chase. The last record came from Draycote on October 5th. Warks Spring records included singles at Salford Priors GP on April 13th, Morton Bagot on 26th, Alvecote on 29th and Lighthorne Quarry on May 2nd. On return passage there was one at Draycote on August 28th, one flying south-east at Fenny Compton on September 22nd, and a late bird at Draycote on October 5th. Worcs Two at Bredon Hill on April 17th were followed by one at Castlemorton Common on 20th, one south over Pirton on 27th, two at British Camp on May 3rd, while a singing male at Hurst Coppice on May 9th, was joined by another on May 14th, the same day that four sang at nearby Pound Green Common on May 14th remaining in song on June 6th and several were noted singing in the Wyre Forest. Later in the year, one was noted at Happy Valley on September 27th. Staffs The first bird was recorded at Cannock Chase – Pepper Slade on April 13th, five days later than last year and six days later than the year before, then at Highgate Common on 15th and Hanchurch Woods on 17th. The only spring migrant away from the breeding sites was one at Chasewater on April 25th. Sites holding birds in the breeding season were Back Forest (one pair), Bearda (one), Cannock Chase (20+), Coombes Valley (one), Gib Torr (one), Hanchurch Woods (11-12), Hawksmoor (three), Hayes (one), Highgate Common (two), Kinver Edge (three), Lum Edge (one), Maer Hills (three), Swallow Moss (one) and Swineholes Wood (one). Return passage commenced with seven NW over Silverdale Colliery on August 22nd, then eight south at Berry Hill and one south at Belvide on 30th, singles south over Belvide on 31st, Berry Hill on September 2nd and 6th, Black Bank on 8th, Knypersley on 13th, Cheddleton on 14th and finally Berry Hill on 27th. W Mid One bird was recorded in Sutton Park (Longmoor) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Two birds were present in Lutley Wedge on August 30th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage, fairly common in winter. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Alcester (two), Coombe Fields (three),

203 Gaydon Tip (two), Lighthorne Quarry (around 18), and Salford Priors GP (four). Singing males during the breeding season were also noted at: Coombe Abbey, Dordon, Eathorpe, Fisher’s Mill, Frog Hall Landfill, Kenilworth, Kites Hardwick, Lighthorne Pools (three) and Toft Farm Lakes. Wintering flocks were about average for recent years, with maxima of 50 at DMC Kineton on January 6th and 50 at Salford Priors GP on February 10th. Other flocks of around 20-25 were reported from Abbots Salford, Brandon, Coleshill, Draycote, Dunnington and Whitacre Heath NR. Spring passage was again light, with most reports referring to flocks of 20-30 from early March to the third week in April and with site maxima of 40 at Draycote on March 7th, 54 roosting in a sedge marsh at Morton Bagot on April 2nd, 45 at Coleshill GP on 7th, 60 at Salford Priors GP on 13th, and 36 at Brailes on 14th. Visible migration was not exceptional, apart from a count of 340 moving north at Napton Hill early on April 5th. Return passage was noted from August 30th, but was also fairly modest, and although widespread most visible migration reports were of counts of 20-50 per hour, with passage extending to at least November 14th. Only two dates had counts in three figures, namely September 22nd with 140 moving south-east in an hour at Fenny Compton, and October 18th when there were totals of 100 west over Lawford Heath, 150 south-west over Ladywalk and 115 south-west over Shustoke. Grounded flocks of up to 60 were widely reported during this period, with Salford Priors GP having monthly maxima of 100 on September 28th, 150 on October 12th and 140 on November 2nd. Other three figure flocks included 100 feeding in stubble at Lower Radbourn on September 16th, 120 in a field at Charlecote GP on October 2nd and 140 at Grandborough on 18th. After mid November numbers were low, with the best wintering flocks composed of 22 at Arrow, 20 at Draycote and 25 at Salford Priors GP. Worcs Five pairs bred on Bredon Hill and a male was noted on territory at Hipton Hill on June 10th, First winter period counts comprised 14 at Castlemorton Common on January 6th, 20 at Holt on 23rd, 30 at Lineholt on 27th, 45 at Throckmorton Landfill Site on February 10th and 40 there on March 19th, 30 at Bittell Reservoirs from February 11th to April 14th, 50 at Hollybed Common on February 17th, 40 at Wick on March 24th, 51 at Abberton on 26th, 40 over Lower Park Farm on April 7th, Autumn and second winter period records comprised 20 at British Camp on August 17th, 200 flew south over Bredon Hill September 18th, 20 over Upton Warren on 20th and 27th, 30 at Worcestershire Beacon and 20 at North Hill on September 21st, 180 at Blakedown on September 23rd, 200 at Blakedown on September 25th, 20 at Ryall Pits on 27th, 200 at Abberton and 20 at Castlemorton Common on October 5th, 20 at Ryall Pits on 19th, 40 at Norchard on December 21st. Staffs Early season flocks showed some improvement over last year (where the largest flock size was 32), with 49 at Acton, 50 at Blyth Bridge, 100 at Clay Mills and 30 at River Sow Meadows. Spring passage was also an improvement, noted from mid March until early April. Significant flock counts were 215 at Crossplains on March 15th, 150 at Alton on 23rd and 100 at Belvide and 175 at Blithfield on April 6th. Breeding was recorded throughout the North Staffordshire moorland (e.g. 40 birds at Knotbury, 35 at Gun Hill) along with Berry Hill (six), Brown Lees, Cannock Chase – Katyn Memorial (two), Chasewater (eight), The Cloud (four), Consall CP, Cuckoo Bank, Doxey (three), Jack Hayes, Silverdale Colliery (eight) and Wetley Moor. Autumn passage was also very strong, suggesting a good breeding season despite the weather, with migration and stop-over flocks recorded from September 6th until October 30th. Visible migration accounted for 4800 birds out of a total count during the period of 7600. Visible migration was reported from Belvide, Berry Hill, Black Bank (600+ on September 18th), Cheddleton, Doxey,

204 Essington Quarry Pool, Westport Lake and Woodhead. In the late winter period, the best of modest sized flocks were 40 at Byrkley Park and 20 at Uttoxeter from early-mid November, 40 at Tittesworth on 9th, 70 at Blithfield on 22nd and 60 at Black Bank/ Silverdale Colliery in December. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded a total of seven birds in three transects and two watercourses, both in Sutton Park (central and Longmoor). Birds were also seen in the breeding season at Bury’s Hill, Lutley Wedge and Sandwell Valley, with one at Marsh Lane NR on June 26th. Maximum counts included ten at Mercote Mill Farm on January 19th, 33 in Lutley Wedge on February 16th, at least 20 at Clayhanger on March 14th and 22 on April 8th, 20 at Marsh Lane NR on March 16th and at least 25 on September 19th, ten on Netherton Hill on April 4th and September 21st, 15 in Sandwell Valley on 12th, 20 by Longwood Canal on October 9th, 30 at Box Trees Airfield on November 16th and 20 in Blythe Valley on December 21st. A bird visited Cannon Hill Park on September 13th.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks A generally good year opened with an unusual mid-winter bird at Draycote on January 3rd and 7th. Spring passage records from here involved singles on March 4th, 15th and 24th, with two on 28th; one of which was said to show characteristics of the Scandinavian race, although no description was received. A single bird was also reported from Napton Hill on March 24th. Again Draycote had most of the autumn birds, commencing with a single bird on September 23rd and 25th, increasing to five on 26th, with two on 27th-28th, and one staying to October 5th. Three more appeared here on October 8th, followed by two on 13th, single birds on 15th and 17th-18th, and a final bird from November 8th-10th. Elsewhere, one flew south at Bush Hill, Flecknoe on September 25th, and singles visited Salford Priors GP on September 28th and October 12th. Worcs One present at Upton Warren on October 18th often shared the same island as a Shore Lark. Staffs At Blithfield, one was seen on January 31st, another March 17th-23rd and a third April 2nd-7th. In the autumn, the first was again at Blithfield on September 26th, then at Belvide on October 5th, Essington Quarry Pool on 7th, Blithfield on 9th, Chasewater on 11th, Belvide and Doxey on 12th, Blithfield 13th-15th, two at Belvide on 15th and finally one at Tittesworth on November 1st.

Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis Rare passage migrant (7/10) Worcs A bird in breeding plumage was at Grimley from March 22nd to 25th BRS et al. Staffs One was photographed at Blithfield on March 22nd MYa.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. An average showing for this species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 81 89 41 60 63 Long-term average: October 26th (18) to April 16th (18) 8-year average: October 14th (–12 days) to April 9th (–7 days)

205 A late arrival on November 2nd at Uttoxeter Quarry but a late departure on April 20th at Salford Priors. Warks The only acceptable record was of a bird in breeding plumage at Salford Priors GP on April 20th JJB. Worcs The wintering bird remained at Grimley until February 27th BRS et al. Staffs Just one bird was recorded at the usual wintering site at Doxey from February 25th-March 29th MDB et al., with one at Blithfield on January 13th NJS and another at Belvide on April 8th SNut. In the autumn, one visited Uttoxeter Quarry from November 2nd-8th RPow, ABar and one at Essington Quarry Pools on November 11th GCle.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding territory counts included nine at Brandon, 27 in 62 ha of Kingsbury Wood, 37 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp, and 44 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot, the latter identical to 2007. A decline was detected at DMC Kineton after several good years, where the total of 134 counted in May was the lowest since 1999. During the late winter period the largest flock was present in game crops at Dunnington, where there was a maximum of 500 on February 10th. Other flocks during this period included 200 at Cliff and 100 at both Lawford Heath and Morton Bagot. Visible autumn passage was noted from September 27th, and counts of around 100 per hour were reported moving south-west over Ladywalk on October 18th, south over Draycote on 29th and west at Bush Hill, Flecknoe on November 1st. A big influx was noted in the Dassett Hills area on November 5th. Feeding flocks were numerous during the last quarter especially in southern and eastern districts, including maxima of 100 at Wormleighton on October 25th, 200 at Lawford Heath on 26th-27th, 180 at Grandborough on 29th, 235 at Birchley Heath on November 3rd, 100 at Ilmington Downs on 17th, 120 at Northend on 22nd, 110 at Priors Hardwick on December 6th, 140 at Combrook on 20th, 100 at Dunnington on 21st, with 250 at Chesterton and 150 at Burton Dassett on 27th. Worcs Reports of breeding pairs came from Bodenham Arboretum, where six nested, while a garden at Little Comberton held one nesting pair. Most of the largest winter flocks were concentrated at game crops or weedy arable farmland and during the first winter period, counts comprised 100 at Pensax on January 9th, 60 at Norchard on 16th, 100 at Wick on February 6th, 30+ at Longdon Marsh on March 2nd, 30 in a Stoke Bliss garden on 8th and 44 still at Wick on 10th. The second winter period produced counts of 30 at Saxon’s Load on October 26th, 60 at Kyre on November 2nd and 30 at Longdon Marsh on 15th, while during December, New Farm held 50+ on 6th, 100+ were observed at Wick on 6th, 9th and 17th, 100+ were in the Wyre Forest at Nib Green on 7th, a Stoke Bliss garden attracted 55 on 24th, 30 were noted at Clifton on 26th and Lineholt held 50+ on 28th and 31st. Staffs 13 pairs bred at Doxey (cf. 16 in 2007 and 10 in 2006) and 21 at Berry Hill. There were few large flocks in the first winter period – the only ones of note were 300 at Whitmore Bent Lane in January, 50 at Blythe Bridge in February and 75 at River Sow Meadows and 100 at Whitmore Bent Lane in March. Visible migration produced 678 birds heading south or west between September 18th and October 30th (cf. 1068 between September 26th and November 1st in 2007), sightings coming from Belvide, Berry Hill, Black Bank and Woodhead. The larger wintering flocks in November were 100 at Whitmore Bent Lane and in December 200 at , 140 at Captain’s Barn, 220 at Newstead and 300 at Whitmore Bent Lane.

206 W Mid An estimated 14 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, the same as last year. Six territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to seven last year and the average of five over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 91 birds in 34 of the transects and 11 of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Merritts Brook, Plantsbrook (south of Penns Lane), River Cole (central and east), River Rea (Cannon Hill), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central, Keeper’s Pool, Longmoor and Whyndley to Bracebridge). High counts included about 50 birds at Marsh Lane NR on January 4th and up to 100 from October 25th to November 2nd, 140 in Lutley Wedge on March 30th and 120 on April 3rd, 70 at West Bromwich on January 15th and 50 on February 7th, at least 30 at Allesley Park on August 30th and Park Lime Pits on November 22nd and December 3rd, and about 45 at Norton on 29th-30th.

Skywatch totals October November 28th 29th 31st 1st 14th 15th Barr Beacon 39 8 – – – – Smestow Valley – – 18 28 48 70

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers. Long-term average: October 9th (73) to April 19th (72) 8-year average: October 4th (–5 days) to April 19th (0) First noted on the very early date of September 19th at Upton Warren; the last on April 27th at Draycote. Warks Small numbers were well distributed throughout the county during the first quarter following last year’s influx, with records of up to seven birds coming from 47 sites including many regularly frequenting garden feeding stations. Three larger flocks were present during this period which reached peaks of 32 at Morton Bagot (in a wild bird crop) on January 20th, 110 in game crops at Dunnington on February 10th and 75 in rape stubble at Cliff on 14th. Small numbers remained in the county into the first week in April, with later records of four at Long Marston Camp on 12th, two at Lea Marston and one at Brandon on 13th, a pair in a Nuneaton garden and one at Avon Dassett on 15th, and one at Ladywalk on 18th. The latest reports came from Draycote, with four males on 19th, two on 20th, and a late male on 27th. The first return migrants were noted at Brandon on October 8th and Fenny Compton Hills on 10th, where three flew west. Subsequent reports of up to five birds came from a total of 23 sites, including passage counts of 18 flying west at Priors Hardwick on October 25th and ten west at Bush Hill, Flecknoe on November 1st. The largest feeding flocks were 12 in game crops at Combrook on November 29th, 20 at Dunnington on December 21st and ten at Chesterton on 27th. Worcs Sightings were widespread across the county during the first winter period, with some reasonably large flocks encountered. Summerfield was particularly productive throughout this period, holding maximum counts of 50 on January 1st, 60+ on 12th, 70+ on February 24th and 30 on March 15th and 24th. Other flocks which lingered into March, were observed at Lower Smite Farm, with maximum counts of 10+ on January 12th, 20th and 30th, 14+ on 31st, 10 on February 1st, 8+ on 25th, 19 on March 20th and six on 26th, while Dowles Brook/Lodge Hill Farm had maximum counts of three on January 29th, 15+ on February 4th, 12+ on 9th, 62+ on 10th, 10 on 25th, 12 on March 1st and six on 21st. A garden feeding station at Stoke Bliss attracted reasonable numbers between January 12th- April 10th, with a maximum count of 35 on March 8th. Other notable counts comprised

207 eight at Astwood Bank on January 2nd, Caunsall game crop attracted 20 on 5th and 14th, an impressive flock of 100 on 21st, then 30 on 29th, six+ were observed at Clevelode on January 12th, 10 at Lower Moor on 16th and 30 at Shenstone on 25th. An Oakenshaw garden held five on February 29th, while another garden at held 17 on March 3rd and 10 on 12th. Elsewhere, counts below five came from Abberton, , Arrow Valley North, Bockleton, Bredon Hill, Grimley Brick Pits, Bromsgrove, Clifton Pits, Flyford Flavell, Grimley, Holt Heath, Kidderminster, Norchard, Old Storridge Common, Pershore, Redditch, Stoke Heath, Stoulton, Upton Warren, Upton-upon-Severn STW, Wassell Grove, Welland and Wick. Small numbers lingered well into April, with one at Pershore on 1st, Lower Smite Farm held six+ on 1st, then two on 11th and 18th, singles were observed along Dowles Brook on 2nd, 3rd and 13th, while Bredon Hill held 15 on 4th, five on 5th, 15 on 8th and nine on 22nd. One was observed regularly in an Oakenshaw garden between 4th-19th, Wassell Grove held two on 4th, three on 5th, seven Brambling at Whitacre Heath, Steve Seal on 7th, then singles on 10th, 11th and 13th, two were at Pound Green Common on 9th, two at Bewdley on 18th, plus six at Puxton Marsh and one at Withybed Green on 20th. The first bird of the autumn was reported from Upton Warren on September 19th and then, other records of passage migrants comprised two at Happy Valley on 28th, Bredon Hill held five on October 10th, two on 14th, one on 16th, four on 25th, seven on 29th and two on 30th, while two flew over Little Comberton on 22nd. No flocks above 21 birds were recorded during the second winter period, though sightings were quite widespread. Grimley proved productive, with maximum counts of 12 on November 2nd and 4th, seven on 3rd, six on 5th and 7th, three between 13th-December 6th, then singles until 27th. Elsewhere, two flew over Kyre on November 2nd, two and four were at Lower Smite Farm on 4th and 26th respectively, two were observed in an Oakenshaw garden on 5th, two in the Wyre Forest on 14th, plus two at Norchard and five at Wick game crop on 28th. A Stoke Bliss garden attracted two on December 7th, four on 10th and 21 on 22nd, while at Summerfield; five were noted on 15th and 18th, then 12 on 27th. Singles also reported from Abberley, Bewdley, Captain’s Pool, Grimley New Workings, Hartlebury, Holt, Lineholt, Nib Green in the Wyre Forest and Old Storridge Common. Staffs The modest flocks from late 2007 continued into 2008 with the only double- figure flocks at the following sites: 15 at Newborough on January 3rd, 21 at Rudyard Lake on 24th, 20 at Marquis Drive on February 2nd (reducing to 10 by 16th), 25 at Tuters Hill on 7th, 60, the largest flock, at Whitmore – Cudmore Fishing Pools on 18th (reducing to 10 by April 13th), 12 at Kinver Edge on March 15th, 18 at Baggeridge CP on 20th and 12 at Belvide on 22nd. The last bird was seen at Bearda on April 26th. The first returning bird was at Meir on October 2nd but numbers in the second winter period were even lower, reflected by a meagre passage of just seven birds over Black Bank (61 in 2007) between

208 October 9th and 31st. The only double-figure flocks were 14 at Berry Hill on November 1st, 12 at Whitmore – Cudmore Fishing Pools on 7th, 15 at Belvide on 22nd and 35 at Newstead on December 22nd. Single figure counts came from a further 24 sites. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, two birds were noted throughout January until February 2nd, with singles on March 4th and 27th, and two on 31st. In Sandwell Valley, single birds were noted occasionally from January 15th to March 13th, with three from 21st to April 20th. A bird visited a Wolverhampton garden on January 5th, with two at Dunstall Park on 22nd, one in Stevens Park on 24th, two at Kings Heath on 27th, February 25th and March 14th, singles at Winson Green on February 2nd, March 5th and April 18th, Hampton in Arden on February 3rd, Mary Stevens Park on 20th and Lutley Wedge on March 13th, followed by up to five from April 4th-8th. Two birds visited Halesowen on March 20th, with singles at Penn on March 22nd and 24th, and Westwood Heath on 28th, at least 12 between Park Lime Pits and Riddian Bridge on 29th and 25 on April 10th, up to five in Hollywood from March until April 5th, and two at Kingswinford on April 3rd and Allesley on 16th. Later in the year, at Marsh Lane NR, single birds were noted on October 26th and 31st, November 1st and 30th, and December 1st, 14th, 17th and 20th. A bird was seen in Lutley Wedge on October 29th, at least three flew over Smestow Valley on November 1st, with singles in Babb’s Mill Lake on 12th, Westwood Heath on 12th and 15th, Harborne and Stirchley on 13th, Sandwell Valley on 14th and Norton on December 29th and 30th.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Very common to abundant resident. Warks Breeding territory counts included three at Brandon Marsh, 24 in 190 ha at Long Marston Camp and 23 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot. Easily the largest reported flock was one of 500 feeding in fields on the West Midlands County border near Packwood on October 18th. Other good-sized flocks included 100 feeding in a game cover crop at Dunnington on February 10th, 100 at Studley on August 7th, a peak of 230 feeding in wild bird cover crops at Morton Bagot on September 14th, 100 at Sambourne on 16th, and 100 in game cover at Combrook on November 29th. Worcs The only breeding season data received, comprised seven nesting pair at Bodenham Arboretum. Wintering flocks still appear low in numbers, particularly at garden feeding stations, as has been the trend in recent years, with just two large counts made of birds attracted to game crops at New Farm and Wick. A Stoke Bliss garden held a maximum count of 30 on January 12th, while during the second winter period, 100 were observed at Wick on October 22nd and December 9th, 40+ at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 1st, 20 at Castlemorton Common on 25th, 100+ at New Farm on December 6th and 25 in a Stoke Bliss garden on 24th. Staffs Other than 100 at Batchacre Hall on January 6th, flocks in the first winter period were extremely low, the best being 30 at Baggeridge CP, 20 at Baldwins Gate, 20 at Biddulph (Newpool), 22 at Curborough House, 17 at Newborough, 17 at River Sow Meadows and 33 at Tatenhill. 11 pairs bred at Berry Hill (five+ in 2007) and 11 at Doxey (12 in 2006 and 2007). Good-sized post-breeding flocks in August and September were noted at Berry Hill (30), Huntington (50), Doxey (15), Little Stoke (20) and Westport (40). Visible migration extended from September 21st until November 24th with a total of 94 birds logged at Belvide and Black Bank. Numbers in the second winter period were on a par with last year, the best counts being 40 at Belvide, 28 at Berry Hill, 26 at Doxey, 12 at Newstead, 15 at Park Hall CP, 55 at River Sow Meadows on October 25th rising to 106 by November 22nd and 20 at Whitmore Bent Lane.

209 W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year and the average over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 55 birds in 20 of the transects and nine of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Merritts Brook, Radleys and Sheldon, River Cole (central and east), River Rea (Cannon Hill and south of Wychall), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (Whyndley to Bracebridge). Good numbers of birds visited the Sandwell Valley feeding station during the first winter period, peaking at over 60 in March. Other high counts included 20 plus birds at Dunstall Park on February 22nd, 30 at Marsh Lane NR on August 17th, a remarkable 500 at Dorridge on October 18th and 50 at Norton on December 29th.

Skywatch totals October November 28th 29th 31st 1st 14th 15th Barr Beacon 6 2 – – – – Smestow Valley – – 3 17 26 32

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Very common summer visitor and partial migrant; increasingly common in winter. Warks Breeding season territory counts included five in 62 ha of Kingsbury Wood, 32 in 190 ha of mixed habitats at Long Marston Camp, and 11 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (cf. nine in 2006-07). During the first quarter easily the largest reported flock was 150 feeding in rape stubble with other finches at Cliff on January 28th. Other good counts included 37 by the River Avon near Stratford Racecourse on February 23rd and 51 on feeders in a Fenny Compton garden on 24th. Post-breeding flocks included a maximum of 200 feeding on thistles and Common Knapweed heads at Wormleighton Res on September 6th, 130 feeding on Wild Teasel by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on October 2nd, 180 in a weedy field at Cubbington on 10th, and up to 200 feeding in game cover at Goldicote during the same month. Other flocks of 30-60 were fairly widely reported across the county. A total of 40 came into roost at dusk with small numbers of Siskins in garden conifers at Harbury on December 14th. Worcs A single pair bred at Bodenham Arboretum, while adults with juveniles were observed at Grimley on July 21st and at Holt on August 23rd. Post-breeding groups comprised 20 at Grimley on August 6th, 20 at Pensax on 19th, 90 and 60 at Throckmorton Tip on 24th and September 14th respectively and 20 at Hollybed Common on September 7th. During the first winter period, counts comprised a roost of 85 at Evesham and 20 at Pensax on January 9th, 24 in a Stoke Bliss garden on 12th, four in a Malvern Link garden on 26th and February 17th, plus 40+ at Lineholt on January 27th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised 120 at Longdon Marsh on September 29th, 14 in a Evesham garden on October 6th, 70 on Bredon Hill on 13th, while in December, 80 were noted at Hinton-on-the-Green on 22nd, 25 at Lineholt on 23rd, while birds attracted to garden feeding stations, included counts of 19 at Stoke Bliss on 24th, plus 30 at Little Comberton and four at Malvern Link on 31st. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Barton GP ––––––––46–305 Berry Hill Fields 23 – 6 6 6 34 60 400 600 140 65 50 Black Bank – – – – – – – – 80 90 – 40 Bury Bank –––––––––200–100 Chasewater 5 26 5 – – – 10 30 100 9 40 20

210 JFMAMJ JASOND Croxall NR 8 – – 6 – – – 18 100 55 – 10 Doxey 21 30 12 10 14 15 14 150 83 52 64 44 Drayton Bassett Pits – – – – – – – 20 50 – – 21 River Sow Meadows – 22 6 – – – 60 – 20 45 – 4 Tittesworth 14 – – 4 – 8 – 80 130 30 – – West End, Stoke – 25 30 – – – 4 – – – – 48 Westport Lake 4 30 25 4 – – 22 30 30 60 40 30 Numbers continue to grow at Berry Hill where the post-breeding flocks were nearly treble the previous year. Fifteen pairs bred at Doxey (cf. 12, 14 and 9 in the previous three) and 10 at Berry Hill. Other large flocks in the first winter period were 37 at Cheadle in January, with 40 at Baggeridge CP and 50 at Weeping Cross in February. Other significant post- breeding flocks in August and September were 300 at Calton, 200 at JCB Cheadle, 50 at Penn Common, 80 at South Farley, 50 at Uttoxeter Quarry, 100 at Waterfall, 200 at Weaver Hills and 60 at Whitemoor Haye. In October there were 60 at Hanchurch Woods and 200 at Thorswood but numbers thereafter dwindled. W Mid Five or six pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, similar to last year. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 18 birds in five of the transects and three of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, Radleys and Sheldon and 13 birds along River Tame (west). Birds were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot and were also present in the breeding season at Acock’s Green, Audnam, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Buckpool, Bumble Hole LNR, Chadwick End, The Chuckery, Cradley Heath, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Grand Union Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Ketley Quarry, Kingswinford, Lapal, The Leasowes, Lye, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, North Warwickshire Golf Course, Park Lime Pits, Penn, Portway, Priory Park, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Stevens Park, Stourbridge, Sutton Park, Tyseley, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Wollaston. High counts included up to 40 birds at Marsh Lane NR until January 12th and on August 24th, up to 60 at West Bromwich during August and early September, at least 38 in a Balsall Common garden on October 15th and 50 plus at The Chuckery on December 17th. Up to 35 birds were also noted at Allesley Park, Amblecote, Bartley Reservoir, Bury’s Hill, Cannon Hill Park, Clayhanger, Coombeswood, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston, Goscote, Hampton in Arden, Harborne, Hobbs Hole Golf Course, King’s Heath, Knowle, Lutley Wedge, Maypole, Minworth STW, Netherton, Norton, Ocker Hill, Olton Mere, Pedmore, Sedgley Beacon, Sheepwash UP, Stubbers Green, Tettenhall, Tocil Wetlands, Victoria Park, Walsall, Windsor Fields, Winson Green and Woodgate Valley. Siskin Carduelis spinus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeding species. Warks Relatively large numbers remained in the county during the first quarter, particularly in northern and western districts. The largest counts occurred during January with flocks feeding mainly on Alder, suggesting that many of these moved away shortly afterwards as the food supply declined. Maxima of the largest flocks included: 150 along the R. Bourne near Furnace End and 70 at DMC Kineton on January 1st, 80 in Hartshill Hayes on 4th, 60 at Draycote on 6th, 75 along the Stratford Canal at Preston Bagot on 7th, 70 at Wootton Wawen on 13th, 60 at Brandon on 17th, 42 by the R.Alne south of Henley and 100 at Wolvey Pools on 20th, and 90 at Kingsbury WP on 28th, where they fed on

211 fallen Alder seed on the road. Smaller flocks of around 20-35 were also noted during the period at: Arley, Earlswood Lakes, Guy’s Cliffe, Maxstoke, Moreton Morrell, Napton Res, Shustoke, Warwick and Whitacre Heath NR. Many of the later flocks frequented garden and reserve feeding stations. Small numbers continued to be recorded up to mid April, with the last being of single pairs in a Hodnell plantation on 16th and in a Camp Hill, Nuneaton garden on 21st. The post-breeding incursion began early and coincided with an influx of Crossbills, with six at Baddesley Common on July 2nd, four at Oversley Wood and one at Radway on 13th, and two at Avon Dassett on 25th. During August small numbers were noted at several sites including 15 in Bentley Woods on 6th and a peak of 30 at Brandon on 31st. The main influx commenced Siskin, Dave Taylor from about September 3rd, and the species was subsequently numerous across the county with numerous records of visible passage during September. Maxima included 65 at Earlswood Lakes on September 23rd, 55 at Arley Wood on 26th, 100 at Shustoke on October 13th, 40 at Wolvey Pools on 15th, 50 at Edstone on 18th, 50 at Purley Park on 28th, 50 at Farnborough Park on November 15th, 89 at Draycote on 29th, 100 at Ladywalk on December 15th, 140 at Brandon on 16th and 23rd, and 40 at Chesterton on 18th. Smaller flocks of around 20-35 were also noted at: Alcester, Bentley Woods, Compton Verney, Fenny Compton, Flecknoe, Guy’s Cliffe, Middleton Hall, Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP and Seeswood Pool. Worcs Reports of an adult and two juveniles at Bengeworth and a juvenile at The Knapp, both sightings on June 27th, suggested localised breeding, while other summer records comprised a male in a Malvern Link garden on June 17th, the Wyre Forest held two on 24th and one on July 1st, one flew over Little Comberton on June 30th, one over Grimley on July 2nd and two over Upton Warren on 27th. With reports from 56 localities, this finch was common and widespread during the first winter period. Counts of 30 or above comprised 50 at Upton Warren on January 3rd, Captains Pool attracted flocks of 30+ on 5th, 100+ on 12th, 40+ on 15th, 60+ on 16th and 35 on 29th, 70+ were observed at Bevere Lock on 6th, 80 at Barnett Brook and 80 at Blakedown on 10th, 60+ at Holt on 11th, 50 at Arrow Valley North and 50 at Lower Bittell Reservoir on 20th and 33 at West Hagley on 23rd. A flock of 300+ fed in larches along Dowles Brook on January 26th and subsequent sighting here comprised 50 on February 9th and 30 on March 5th, 60 were noted at Matchborough on January 28th, Throckmorton Tip/Lagoons held 30 throughout January, then maximum counts of 80 were recorded here on February 5th, March 17th, 19th and 25th. 40+ were at Grimley on February 23rd and 30 at Grimley on March 16th. Small numbers lingered throughout April and into early May. During late summer and autumn, The Knapp held one on August 2nd, two on 8th and 30th, one on September 11th, 30 on 14th and 50 on 15th, Upton Warren held one on August 30th, five on September 24th and 20 on October 8th, while at Stoulton, one was noted on September 13th, then six on 26th. Two were observed at Arrow Valley Lake, six at Hollybed Common, 18 at Kinsham

212 Lake and several flew west over Grimley on September 15th, with the latter locality holding three on October 6th, while passage birds were recorded over Happy Valley, included counts of 30 on September 16th, four on 26th, five on 27th, six on 28th, 26 on October 11th and 10 on 12th, plus on Bredon Hill, where 20 were noted on September 18th, 50 on 29th, 10 on October 2nd and 6th, 20 on 8th and finally 10 on 12th. 27 flew over Grimley Old Workings on 19th, Bittell Reservoirs held three on 21st, then 50+ half being juveniles, on 22nd, nine were observed at Shrawley Wood on 22nd, five at Hurcott Wood on 25th and 30-40 over Larford Pool on 25th and 26th. A Stoke Bliss garden attracted 40 on September 28th, eight were noted at Little Comberton on October 6th, three at Throckmorton Lagoons on 9th, 15+ along Wagon Wheel Lane, Grimley on 11th and two over Ryall Pits on 19th. Good numbers were present during the second winter period, with reports from 40 localities. Counts above 30 comprised 60 at Arrow Valley North on October 30th, Holt held 150 on November 1st and 100+ on 6th, 7th and 10th, 50+ were noted at The Knapp on 2nd, 50+ along the River Severn at Grimley on 4th, 30+ at Callow Hill on 14th, 40+ over North Hill on 15th and 60 at Top Barn Farm on 17th. Kinsham Lake produced counts of 40 on 25th and 60 on December 8th, while other December sightings comprised 55 at Eymore Wood on 3rd, 30+ at Chase End Hill on 6th, 50 at Arrow Valley North and 40+ at Captains Pool on 14th, 40 at Clifton Pits on 26th and 27th, 30+ at Bittell Reservoirs on 27th and 30+ at Croome Landscape Park on 30th. Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alton ––––––––6050–– Aqualate 25 11 – – – – – – 12 100 50 12 Belvide 9 – – – – – – – 30 40 30 40 Blithfield 3 – – – – – – – 15 40 2 – Cannock Chase – 72 250 50 – – – – – 50 – 30 Chasewater 55 10 2 – – – – – 1 13 8 10 Dimmingsdale 15 – 200 – – – – – – 200 60 40 Hanchurch Woods 100 425 – – – 4 5 15 150 – – – River Sow Meadows 22 109 20 – – – – – – 2 – 6 Tittesworth 20 – – – – – 1 12 – 2 15 35 Westport Lake 195 30 5 – – – – – 5 12 81 71 The highest flock count of 425 at Hanchurch Woods was made on February 11th. Other significant counts in the first winter period were 50 at Acton, 65 at Great Haywood, 40 at Key Wood, 200 at Maer and 50 at Wolseley Bridge. Good numbers in the second winter period included untabulated records of 60 at Alton, 100 at Aqualate, 100 at Brookleys Lake, 200 at Churnet Valley, 135 at Hoar Cross, 60 at Orgreave, 50 at Rudyard Lake and 100 at South Farley. W Mid All high counts during the first winter period came in January, with 80 birds at Marsh Lane NR on 2nd and 100 on 19th, about 150 at Sneyd Reservoir on 24th and flocks mixed with Lesser Redpoll totalled over 50 birds in Sandwell Valley during the month. Up to 40 birds were also noted at Balsall Common, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Buckpool, Bumble Hole LNR, Bury’s Hill, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Eastern Green, Elmdon Park, Edgbaston, Harborne, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Knowle, Lightwoods Park, Lutley Wedge, Martineau Gardens, Reedswood Park, Saltwells Wood, Selly Oak, Smestow Valley, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath and Wollaston. Late summer sightings in Sutton Park included 15 birds on July 23rd, 40 on September 7th and at least 100 on 14th. During November, flocks mixed with Lesser Redpoll totalled up to 30 birds in Sandwell Valley and up to 100 birds were at Marsh Lane NR, where 120 were

213 noted on December 14th. Up to 20 birds were also seen at Babb’s Mill Lake, Barr Beacon, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Clayhanger, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Harborne NR, King’s Heath Park, Kingswinford, Lutley Wedge, Marston Green Park, Moorcroft Wood, Norton, Penn, Sandwell Valley, Shirley, Smestow Valley, Tettenhall, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Winson Green and Wren’s Nest. Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant, with fewer in winter. Warks Counts of breeding season territories included six at Ansty Park, Coombe Fields, three at Long Marston Camp and 17 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot, where numbers have recovered to the 2004 level. Only 21 were logged at DMC Kineton in May, which although up from last year’s figure (16) was less than 47% of the 20 year average. Outside the breeding season the abundance of good sized flocks reported would suggest that the species is doing very well at present. During the first quarter, flocks included maxima of 600 in game crops at Dunnington on January 20th, 220 at Morton Bagot on 27th and 200 in rape stubble at Cliff on 30th. The first sizeable post-breeding flock was 100 at Morton Bagot on August 23rd, and here numbers built up to around 500 during December. Another large flock frequenting a tilled field at Wormleighton numbered at least 600 on September 27th, 700 on October 25th and 500 on November 16th. At other sites flock maxima included: 150 at Grandborough on October 18th and 29th, 100 in maize at Fenny Compton also on 18th, 110 at Salford Priors GP on 26th, 101 in two flocks around Dosthill Lake on November 28th, 300 in game cover at Combrook on 29th, 230 at Cliff on December 5th, 300 at Priors Hardwick and 150 at Upper Radbourn on 6th, and 115 at Wormleighton Res on 12th, with 200 in game cover at Dunnington throughout December. Worcs Reports almost exclusively involved flocks recorded outside the breeding season, the only exceptions being two pairs, which nested at Bodenham Arboretum and counts of 10 at Cofton Richards Farm on April 24th, while Hollybed Common held 20 on 26th and 10 on June 8th. First winter period sightings comprised 19 at Castlemorton Common on January 6th, 70+ at Naunton Beauchamp on 12th, 120 at Norchard and 35 at Wick game crop on 16th, 60 at Longdon Marsh on 27th, 20 at Grimley on February 11th, 25 at Upton Warren on 16th and 23 at Lower Park Farm Pool on 24th, while during March, Longdon Marsh held 150 on 2nd, 70 at Lower Moor on 5th, 16 at Lower Park Farm Pool on 23rd and 120 at Wick on 24th. Post-breeding groups were observed at British Camp, where 20 were counted on July 27th, then 40 on August 17th, Hollybed Common held 40 on August 3rd, 20 were noted at Cofton Richards Farm on 7th, 40 at Lower Park Farm Pool on 24th, 90 at Throckmorton Tip on September 14th and 160 on Bredon Hill on 18th. The second winter period, particularly during late November and December, produced some of the largest counts of the year. 50+ were noted at Saxon’s Lode on October 26th, Castlemorton Common held 80+ on November 16th, while 130 roosted here on 25th and Wick game crop attracted 150 on 22nd and 28th, 250 on December 9th and 200 on 17th. Naunton Beauchamp held 120+ on December 6th, Upton Warren held 50+ on 20th, two flocks, totalling 375 birds were observed in the Holt/Grimley area on 23rd, while 200+ frequented Lineholt between 28th-31st. Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Barton GP – – – 2 2 2 10 – 57 – 13 2 Berry Hill – – 219243240552015– 1 Bury Bank –––––––––200–50

214 JFMAMJJASOND Crossplains – – 8 95 20 7 20 40 180 60 60 40 Cuckoo Bank 14 53 53 45 p 4 25 – 25 90 45 – Drayton Bassett Pits – 2 15 p – – 5 30 31 12 14 – Hill Chorlton – 60 – 2 6 11 20 – – – 150 – Whitemoor Haye 50 200 – 50 4 – – – 3 – 100 – Whitmore – Bent Lane – 3 3 – 1 15 – 2 8 10 350 400 Whittington Barracks 70 – – – – – – – – – – 70 Breeding pairs and probable breeders were reported from 75 sites this year (52 in 2007, 31 in 2006 and 2005), the rise due to increased coverage from the BTO Atlas Survey. Included are Baggeridge CP (two pairs), Berry Hill (12), Cannock Chase (six in the Sherbrook Valley area), Crossplains (three), Doxey (two), Knotbury (five) and Thorswood NR (seven). Other significant flocks in the first winter period were 50 at Clay Mills on February 7th, 55 at Hixon Airfield on March 3rd and 70 at Weston Jones on 16th. Visible migration at Black Bank and Belvide was better than usual with 45 birds south/SW between September 20th and October 19th. Other autumn/second winter period flocks were 50 at Round Knowl Farm on August 3rd, 57 at Barton GP on September 20th, 40 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 28th, 72 at Loynton Moss on October 6th, 50 at Burston on 29th, 55 at Seighford Moor on November 16th, 550 (the largest year count) at Newstead on December 19th and 42 at Croxall NR on December 28th. W Mid A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 water - courses across Birmingham recorded birds in three of the transects and two of the watercourses: River Cole (east) and Sutton Park (Longmoor). Birds were fairly common during the breeding season on farmland around Allesley, Eastern Green and Keresley, and were also noted in Blythe Valley, Bury’s Hill, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley. High counts included 60 birds in Sandwell Valley on January 15th and 17th, 40 at Blythe Valley CP on 16th, 23 at Marsh Lane NR on March 24th, 40 at Bury’s Hill on 31st, 80 in Lutley Wedge on April 20th, 60 at Keresley Mere on 21st and 30 at Dorridge on October 21st. Counts of 20 or fewer birds came from Berkswell, Box Trees Airfield, Foxcote, Minworth STW, Norton, Sheepwash UP and Wordsley.

Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Warks Again this finch was very scarce during the first quarter, with mainly only very small numbers of up to five seen irregularly across the county and with a concentration of reports from the Tame Valley. The largest count was of a party of 20 flying over Birchmoor on February 6th; while maxima at the main sites included seven at Draycote on January 4th, seven at Fisher’s Mill on 21st, ten at Ladywalk on 24th, eight at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on 29th, 11 at Whitacre Heath NR from March 8th-23rd, and ten at Brandon on 18th. Reports were regular during the spring up to April 20th, with the last birds at Mays Wood on 22nd and Newbold Comyn on May 1st. The first autumn reports were of five over Seeswood Pool on September 13th and one at Hartshill Hayes on 14th, with very small numbers regular from 20th including six moving south at Salford Priors GP on 28th. During the final quarter parties of up to six were reported from all parts of the county, particularly in the north and east. The largest flock was seen in Fisher’s Mill Meadow, where numbers peaked at 65 on November 6th. Other maxima included 12 at Seeswood Pool on October 2nd, 18 at Ladywalk on 3rd, eight at Wasperton on 8th, 15 at Brandon on

215 10th, 33 in Bentley Park Wood on 29th, nine at Earlswood Lakes and 15 at Lower Radbourn on November 16th, 14 at Draycote on 18th, 24 at Dosthill on 19th, ten at Napton Res and 17 at Priors Marston on 20th, ten at Fenny Compton on 27th, 12 at Ashlawn Cutting NR on December 8th and ten at Mancetter Quarry on 30th. Worcs Though impossible to attribute flyover Redpolls to ether Common or Lesser Redpoll, all reports have been included under the latter. Apart from a large flock at Lineholt during December, totals during both winter periods were low, with only a few localities reaching counts of 20 birds or more. First winter period sightings comprised maximum counts of 20+ at Lodge Hill Farm on January 26th, 25 in a Malvern Link garden on 27th and 20-25 birds at Upton Warren during February and March, while in April, Dowles Brook/Lodge Hill Farm held 40 on 3rd and 20+ on 5th and in May a few singing males were recorded at the edge of Elmley Lovett trading estate on 12th. Small numbers, all counts below 20, were reported from a further 26 localities between January-April. A male at Ryall Pits on July 16th was an unusual record, while the only report during August involved one over Bredon’s Hardwick on 5th. Autumn passage commenced with small numbers passing over Bredon Hill on September 18th, then one was at Bittell Reservoirs on 19th, three at Upton Warren on 22nd and 23rd, two at Hurcott Wood on 25th, four at Stoulton on 26th, nine and four in Happy Valley on 27th and 28th respectively and 18 at Old Storridge Common on 28th. Numbers steadily increased during October, with the best counts comprising 24 at Old Storridge Common on 11th, 50 at Upton Warren on 13th, 40+ in Happy Valley on 16th, 20+ at Bittell Reservoirs on 17th, 25 at Castlemorton Common on 18th and 20+ at Lodge Hill Farm on 25th. During the second winter period, counts above 20 comprised 50 at the Rifle Range on November 30th, 20+ at Kinsham Lake on December 8th, while at Lineholt, 150 were observed on 8th, 120 on 9th, 250+ on 21st and 150+ on 23rd and 28th. Small numbers also observed at another 27 localities during the second winter period. Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP 100 – – – – – – – – – 40 – Belvide 13 – 5 1 – – – – 22 10 2 15 Berry Hill ––––––1–123544 Black Bank – – – – – – – – 13 48 3 – Chasewater 15 30 15 15 – – – – – 10 – 25 Dimmingsdale – 200 – – – – – – – 80 120 130 Hanchurch Woods 80 50 25 60 1 – – – 40 40 30 p Knypersley Reservoir 10 – – – – – – – – 40 3 33 Park Hall CP –––––5––––3030 Tittesworth 2 912206 310– 115–22 Wetley Moor – – – – – – – – 50 25 – – Breeding was confirmed at Swallow Moss where three pairs were present. It was suspected but not proven at The Cloud, Gib Torr, Gun Hill, Hollinsclough, Revidge and Wettonmill. Breeding season sightings were also made at Cannock Chase, Maer, Park Hall CP and Tittesworth. In the first winter period the largest flock of the year, 200 at Dimmingsdale, was seen on February 25th and 50 were recorded at Beech on January 7th. Larger untabulated flock counts in the second winter period were 50 at Wetley Moor on September 30th, 50 at Alton on October 26th, 35 at Ingestre on November 6th, 30 at Cuckoo Bank on 26th, 150 at Hansley Cross on 29th and 30 in the Churnet Valley on December 24th. A number of observers noticed wintering birds feeding on nyger seeds in their gardens, in keeping with a growing national trend.

216 W Mid The only breeding season records involved 20 or more birds at Dunstall Park from late March to April 29th, ten at Park Lime Pits on April 10th, and one or two at Hall Yard Wood, Keresley Mere, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park on single April dates. Most sightings during the first winter period occurred in January – some joined Siskins in a mixed flock of over 50 birds in Sandwell Valley, whilst there were up to 22 at Marsh Lesser Redpoll at Whitacre Heath, Steve Seal Lane NR, up to nine at Dun- stall Park, one in a Tilehouse Green garden on 12th, five in a Solihull garden and one at Buckpool on 26th, and three in Reedswood Park on 30th. Up to five birds were seen occasionally at Clayhanger from January 5th to March 4th. One bird was noted at Westwood Heath on March 2nd and two were in Coundon Wedge on 15th and at Elmdon Park on 24th. The first autumnal birds returned to Sutton Park, with 30 on September 16th, 80 feeding on insects on Crab Apple trees on 23rd and over 120 on October 6th. Up to 12 birds were occasionally noted at Marsh Lane NR from September 21st to the end of the year. Up to three birds were seen in Blythe Valley on five dates from September 21st to December 7th, with 14 the next day. Others arrived in Sandwell Valley on September 24th, peaked at 20 on November 28th and joined Siskins in a mixed flock of up to 30 birds during December. The first bird in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area came on October 6th and was followed up to 15 on seven further dates until late December. At Clayhanger, four birds were seen on October 30th and about 50 were present during late December. A flock of about 25 birds was counted in Saltwells Wood on November 28th. Small numbers were noted in Lutley Wedge on September 29th and October 29th, Allcott Wood on 8th, Marston Green Park on 10th, Barr Beacon on 28th, Tettenhall on November 1st, Berkswell on 3rd, Harborne NR on December 14th and Norton on 29th.

Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea Rare or scarce winter visitor in fluctuating numbers (x/10). Warks Singles were at Lighthorne Quarry on January 12th JJB and intermittently in a Hartshill garden on feeders from March 27th-April 17th JHa. A male was feeding with Lesser Redpolls and Siskins in alders at Kingsbury on December 11th PDH. Worcs At least 17 individuals were recorded at two localities, during the first winter period, with birds lingering into mid April. A particularly striking, pale first-winter male was discovered with Lesser Redpolls at the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on January 9th DAJ et al. and was regularly observed hereafter. On February 16th, this bird, was observed with an adult male and another first-winter male AWa et al. and by early March, a total of nine individuals had been confirmed at Upton Warren, comprising two adult males, three first- winter male and four female/first-winters (all the latter trapped and ringed, plus the original first-winter male) FHe, AWa et al. Most, if not all these birds were present throughout March, while in April; two first-winter males were noted on 9th, plus an adult male and

217 first-winter male on 13th. In the Wyre Forest, five individuals were photographed at Lodge Hill Farm between January 25th-February 11th JRo, while further sightings here comprised a first-winter on March 21st AWa, two adult males and two first-winters on April 3rd CLa, plus a first-winter on 22nd JKe. During the autumn and second winter period, Commons were trapped at ringed at Castlemorton Common and Old Storridge Common during October and November. At Old Storridge Common, an adult male, and two first-winters (one male) were trapped on October 18th, another two first-winters (one male) on 25th and a fifth first-winter on November 2nd FHe, while at Castlemorton Common, a first-winter female was trapped on October 18th and a first-winter male on November 30th PHo. All other reports came from Lineholt during the second half of December, with two between 21st-29th and three, including an adult male present on 28th AWa et al. Staffs Two were at Tittesworth on February 7th MBeb, one at Hanchurch Woods on April 30th NDP and up to three at Belvide from December 23rd until the year end SNut. W Mid Three birds fed on nyjer seed at Dunstall Park on March 29th ADi, with one or two noted several days from April 6th-19th ADi, KMC. One bird remained at Clayhanger from December 26th-31st CMas.

Redpoll sp. Worcs A flock of 23 Redpolls observed at Saxon’s Lode on October 26th, appeared to show plumage characteristics more fitting for Common Redpoll, then Lesser. W Mid The unidentified Redpoll at Marsh Lane from December 2007 stayed until January 20th ARD, DJS.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic breeding species. Warks A moderate-sized eruption into the county began with singles flying north over Fenny Compton on June 24th and Salford Priors GP on 29th, with seven over Hartshill on 30th.Two flew over Seeswood Pool on July 10th and a party of ten flew north over Henley GC on 18th. During the same month up to three were regularly seen in Bentley Woods, with continued sightings here of this order into late September. August reports included eight over Ladywalk on 2nd and one there on 9th, singles at Fenny Compton on 14th and 20th, with three or four at Compton Verney and one at Purley Quarry also on the 20th, and two in Bilton Road, Rugby on 28th. At least three were in Thickthorn Wood (Kenilworth) on September 2nd, three flew over Draycote on 7th, singles were at Daniel’s Wood (Packington) on 10th, over Lighthorne Quarry on 13th, and in Hartshill Hayes on 14th; while there were two over Priors Hardwick and one over Flecknoe on 18th, and three over Fenny Compton on 25th. Subsequently at least six were in Arley Wood on September 29th, with three still present on October 6th; two flew over Lighthorne Quarry on October 19th, two were in Bentley Woods on 29th, and final singles flew over Umberslade on November 7th and Grandborough on 15th. Worcs Reports during the breeding season comprised six at Lodge Hill Farm on April 30th, 12 in the Wyre Forest on May 19th, parties of six and five+ at Shrawley Wood on June 15th, two flew over Abberton and between six and 10, including several juveniles were at Ashton Wood, Bredon Hill on 23rd and a pair in the Wyre Forest on 24th. Just a couple of records received during the first winter period, with one over Old Storridge Common on January 1st and nine over Dowles Brook on February 28th. Sightings increased during the second half of the year, starting with three at Arrow Valley South on July 11th. On the Lickey Hills, five were observed at the visitors centre and two on the east

218 side of Cofton Hill on July 24th, singles were at Clent Hill and Eymore Wood on August 3rd, three flew over Grimley on 6th, one over Walton Hill on September 2nd, while Bredon Hill held three on 18th, singles on 27th, October 2nd and 6th, plus five on 25th. One flew over Stoulton on September 20th, two over one mile west of Martey on 22nd, five+ at Hurcott Wood on 25th, plus a single here on 27th and a small flock was observed at New Parks, Wyre Forest on 28th. One flew over St. Peters, Worcester on October 24th, while other second winter period sightings comprised six at Callow Hill on November 14th, one flew over Upton Warren on 15th, Eymore Wood produced counts of seven on 15th, three on 19th, one on 22nd, nine on 23rd, four on December 3rd, 10 on 19th and 23+ on 20th, while two were observed at Hurcott Wood on 3rd. Staffs The first record of the year was three birds at Cannock Chase – Cadet Huts on January 25th, followed by two at Hanchurch Woods on February 11th. Numbers at Cannock Chase in the Cadet Huts/Pepper Slade area increased to 10 on February 23rd, peaking at 16 on March 3rd and the final three on April 13th. There was no evidence of breeding however. May and June saw birds arriving in the county, the first being nine at Hanchurch Woods on May 7th, rising to 120 by June 14th, then gradually reducing to 70 on 30th, 30 on July 2nd, 10 on August 3rd and just one on September 9th until November 2nd. At Cannock Chase in the Stepping Stones/Sherbrook Valley area, one arrived on June 15th, increasing to 30 by 25th with the last 10 seen on July 23rd. Later on in the year, three arrived at the Cadet Hut/Rifle Range area on October 11th, increasing to 15 by 19th and these birds remained until December 6th at least. Five were present at Bishops Wood on October 12th with one in November and two in December. A considerable number of fly- overs were recorded with larger counts including 20 over Yoxall on June 19th, 10 over Blithfield on June 30th, 24 at Maer Hills on September 26th and nine at Upper Longdon on November 22nd. W Mid Three birds in Sutton Park on August 2nd, singles on 3rd, September 1st and 7th, three on September 8th and one on 13th SMH were the observer’s first records at the site. Single birds flew over Lutley Wedge on September 18th SCl, Cotwall End Valley on October 7th CRe and Robin Hood Golf Course on 9th CHi, with two at Tettenhall on 27th GWo. Other reports involved eight birds flying over Stourbridge on May 17th, one Wolverhampton on 30th July and two at Sheepwash UP on 31st.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Warks Five pairs bred at Wormleighton Res, while five pairs were also located on a 120 ha stewardship farm at Morton Bagot, compared to the usual two-three. By far the largest flock concerned one of 40 which fed on berries at Newton until March RMoy, having arrived there during the previous November. Other good counts included 18 at Worm - leighton Res on November 4th, and 13-14 at Brandon, Calcutt, Coton, Fenny Compton and Shustoke, all during the post-breeding period. Worcs Successfully nesting pairs were reported from Bodenham Arboretum, Kinsham Lake, Throckmorton Lagoons and Upton Warren, while observed during the breeding season at Arrow Valley North, Aston Mill, Bank Street, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon Hill, Dowles Brook, Eardiston, Hewell Grange, Hipton Hill, Lower Moor, Ipsley Alders and Sapey crossroads. The only counts received involved a maximum of three in a Malvern Link garden in January, three on Bredon Hill on October 3rd, Sheriff’s Lench held 15 on November 9th and 20 on 22nd and December 9th, while six were at Eckington Meadows on November 19th.

219 Staffs A widespread bird with breeding confirmed or presumed at Berry Hill (six territories), Biddulph Moor (two juveniles), Branston Water Park (one juvenile), Copmere (one pair), Dimmingsdale (two pairs with young), Doxey (four territories), Park Hall CP (two+ territories), Perton, Roach Grange (three juveniles), Rushton Hall (three juveniles), Silverdale Colliery (five+ territories), Tittesworth (six young) and Westport (two juveniles) with records from a further 45 sites in June and July. Double-figure flock counts were as follows: in January at Park Hall (11) and Westport (10); in February at Baggeridge CP (10), Black Bank (13) and Cannock Chase – Marquis Drive (10); in September at Wetley Moor (10); in November at Berry Hill (18), Chasewater (11) and Park Hall CP (12); in December at Berry Hill (16), Park Hall CP (12), Penn Common (10) and Tittesworth (11). W Mid Four territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year, but still above the average of three over the last 17 years. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of 11 birds in seven of the transects and five of the watercourses: Bourne Brook, River Cole (east and south), River Rea (Cannon Hill) and River Tame (west). Birds were fairly common during the breeding season on farmland around Allesley, Eastern Green and Keresley, and were also noted at Acock’s Green, Balsall Common, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Foxcote, Harborne, Kingswinford, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Park Lime Pits, Penn, Priory Fields, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich, Westwood Heath, Winson Green, Woodgate Valley and Wordsley. Up to 12 birds visited the Sandwell Valley RSPB feeding station from January to April, a maximum of 13 were counted at Dunstall Park on May 1st (a site record) and totals of at least eight were noted at Marsh Lane NR in January, Park Lime Pits in February and December, Tettenhall in October and Norton in December.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce to uncommon, but declining, resident. Several influxes of continental birds were responsible for the considerable increase in numbers of this usually scarce species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 222 155 92 75 193

Warks Two were feeding on sloes beside the Ham Brook at Knightcote on November 8th JJB. A large influx of thrushes was in the local area at the time. Worcs During the first winter period, singles or pairs were regularly reported from Lodge Hill Farm between January 1st-February 23rd and a pair was observed at Chase End Wood on January 14th, while during April, Lodge Hill Farm held one on 5th, two on 18th and one on 21st. An autumn migrant was discovered at Spring Lane Industrial Estate, Malvern Link in October 14th, while Croome Landscape Park proved a reliable location for this secretive finch during December, with four present on 11th, 12th and 14th, singles on 16th and 18th, two on 20th, three on 23rd, two on 27th and a maximum count of five on 30th and 31st. The only other report during the second winter period involved one at Drakes Broughton on 29th. Staffs A small influx of presumably continental birds occurred at the end of the year, the first two flying SW over Codsall on October 13th SNut, then one at Perton on November 18th IPhi, one at Madeley Sewage Works on December 14th SJT and another, a female, took up residence at Cannock Chase – Brocton Coppice from 18th-31st at least, being a regular visitor to the feeding station there many observers.

220 W Mid Single birds were seen at Wychbury Hill before flying off north-eastwards on December 4th PJM and with Chaffinches at Marsh Lane NR on 6th per NPB.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor. An average showing for this attractive species.

1984-88 1989-93 1994-98 1999-03 2004-08 No. of birds 49 36 40 27 48

Warks A single calling bird circled Salford Priors GP on February 7th JJB but did not appear to land. A male was photographed at Draycote on November 12th BHaz et al. Another three records came from the latter area in February and October but lacked supporting details. Worcs Singles recorded on the Malvern Hills during both winter periods, with a calling bird heard as it flew over North Hill on January 16th IWe, a first-winter male was on Worcestershire Beacon on October 26th TTr et al., a first- winter male on North Hill from November 14th-16th BRS et al. and finally one on Worcestershire Beacon on December 28th per IGu. Staffs One lingered at Blithfield from December 2nd-6th ESC et al. and one flew west over Silverdale Colliery on 23rd NDP, SJT.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Lapland Bunting at Berry Hill, Dave Kelsall Very rare vagrant (3/10). Staffs One at Berry Hill from March 24th-30th was well watched by many admirers during its stay SJT.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common to abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Extremely worrying declines were again noted in the breeding season at regularly counted sites. The steward ship farm at Morton Bagot showed another drop to 13 singing males (cf. 17 in 2007 and a steady 20 from 2004-06), while the May log count further dropped at DMC Kineton to just 20 (cf. 36 in 2007 and 51 in 2006). A gradual decline was also noted on farmland around Fenny Compton, where the average number of singing males per km square has dropped from 11 in 1996 to about five. Amongst the better counts of singing males from other areas were nine (in one km square) at Bidford- on-Avon and seven at Salford Priors GP. Outside the breeding season, apart from two exceptions flock size also appears to be lower. The two large concentrations involved an exceptional 300 feeding with other buntings in grassy field margins at Marlcliff on February 2nd and 170 feeding in unharvested wheat at Priors Hardwick on December 6th.

221 Other counts included 50 at Lower Radbourn on January 6th, 55 at Long Compton on 14th, 50 at Morton Bagot on 20th, 40 at Caldecote on February 14th, a peak of 60 at Draycote on December 4th and 50 at Fenny Compton on 26th. Other flocks of 20-30 were fairly widely reported in the Avon valley and across the Feldon region, and as far north as Corley and Curdworth. Worcs Reported during the breeding season in the Wyre Forest, where five singing males were observed, also two singing males were noted at Cofton Richards Farm, while counts, non sex specific comprised six at Castlemorton Common on April 26th, three at Eldersfield on May 4th, Hollybed Common held one on June 6th, plus two on 8th and 30th and two at Eardiston and two pairs at Bank Street on July 31st. Observations made during the first winter period involved one at Lower Park Farm Pool on January 5th, Wick game crop held the only substantial flock in the county, with 100 on 16th, 140 on 22nd and 50 on February 6th, 28 were noted at Lineholt on January 17th, 15 at Westwood Park on 28th, 20 at Clevelode on February 10th, eight at Castlemorton Common on 17th and one at Upton Warren on 28th. Hollybed Common held three on August 1st and September 7th, while autumn and second winter period sightings comprised two at Cofton Richards Farm on October 11th, two at Saxon’s Lode on 26th, two at Grimley on November 8th, while Wick game crop held 70 on 17th, 40 on 28th and 60 on December 17th. Elsewhere in December, 50 were observed at Hinton-on-the-Green on 22nd, 15 at Lineholt on 23rd and one at Upton Warren on 26th. Staffs

Monthly maxima JFMAMJ JASOND Anslow 60 5 25 8 2 – – – – – 2 60 Whitmore – Bent Lane 60 12 20 – 2 3 – 14 8 3 50 30

Records were received from 55 sites during the breeding season (cf. 56 in 2007, 58 in 2006, 50 in 2005), confirmed at Ashwood, Beffcote, Bradley-in-the-Moors (three-four pairs), Fradley Wood area, Keele University, Trysull (three) and Whitmore Bent Lane (six territories, one pair with young). Unlike previous years, the highest count came in what is usually the leanest month for records – 150 at Cock Sparrow Lane (Huntington) on September 21st. Between October 12th and 18th, a very light visible migration of 11 birds south was noted at Belvide and Black Bank. Other higher concentrations were as follows: in January at Acton (22), Blythe Bridge (12), Burton-upon-Trent (25) and Trysull (50); in February at Blythe Bridge (20) and Tuters Hill (15); in March at Chasewater (15); in June at Sugnall Park (25); in October at Rolleston Park (15); in December at Burston (30), Captains Barn (23) and Ellenhall (12). W Mid One was recorded in Sutton Park (Longmoor) during a breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham. Birds were fairly common during the breeding season on farmland around Allesley, Eastern Green and Keresley, and were also noted at Berkswell, Chadwick End, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Foxcote, Lapal, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Norton, Sedgley, Sneyd, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore and Westwood Heath. At Marsh Lane NR, high counts included up to 50 birds during January and 45 in February and March, and about 30 from November 30th to the end of the year. Elsewhere, maxima included ten birds at Clayhanger on February 13th, seven near Park Lime Pits on March 29th and December 3rd, eight at Clay Lane near Harvest Hill on April 11th, 13 in Lutley Wedge on 18th, ten plus in Smestow Valley on November 1st and 18 at Berkswell on 3rd.

222 Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though declining, resident. Warks Counts of six or more breeding season territories included: at least ten at Brandon (cf. 18 in 2007, but probably undercounted), eight between Charlecote GP and Wasperton, seven in the Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill area, 12 at Lighthorne Quarry (cf. 15 in 2007), at least ten along the River Avon between Marlcliff and Hillborough, nine in the Napton Res area, 17 at Salford Priors GP (cf. 20 in 2007), eight in the Whitacre Heath NR area, seven in the Wormleighton Res area, and at least 18 along the Oxford Canal in Wormleighton and Stoneton parishes. Many of the recounted sites showed a small reduction in territories over 2007. At DMC Kineton where there has recently been a severe decline, only one bird was logged on the May count (cf. a peak of 25 in 1994). Outside the breeding season easily the largest flock recorded was one of 120 feeding in unharvested wheat at Priors Hardwick with large numbers of other finches and buntings on December 6th. Other good-sized flocks included 25 in a mixed bunting flock at Marlcliff on February 2nd, 35 in set-aside grassland at Wormleighton Res on October 2nd, and 40 in stubble at Radway on December 7th. Worcs Two-three singing males were reported from Arrow Valley North during the breeding season, while one was noted at Castlemorton Common on April 20th, three pairs at Upton-upon-Severn Upper Ham on 25th, three at Ipsley Alders on May 2nd and counts of singing males at Gwen Finch Wetland comprised nine on 10th, 12 on 17th and 10 on June 2nd. One was noted at Hewell Grange on May 14th, five males frequented the Tilesford area on June 12th, Ashmoor Common held two pairs on July 10th and three singing males were observed at Longdon Marsh on 21st. First winter period sightings comprised a maximum of three at Lower Park Farm Pool during January, three at Clevelode on 12th, 30 were at Wick game crop on 22nd, 13 at Lineholt on 27th, 14 in a game crop at Westmancote on 28th, 10 at Caunsall game crop on 29th, six at Clevelode on February 10th, four at Longdon Marsh on March 2nd and one in a Stoke Bliss garden on 29th. During September, five were reported from Bittell Reservoirs on 10th and one on Sugar Loaf Hill, Malvern Hills on 21st, while second winter period counts involved three and five at Castlemorton Common on October 26th and November 16th respectively, 30 in a game crop at Longdon Marsh on 15th, Wick game crop attracted a flock of 40 on 28th, December 8th and 17th, while nine were observed at Lineholt on 31st. Staffs Breeding territories were located at 80 sites, compared with 92, 72 and 72 in the previous three. Notable sites were Berry Hill (24 pairs), Doxey (41, 50 in 2007, average of 65 in previous years) and River Sow Meadows (nine). The figures suggest poorer breeding in wetlands due to the torrential summer rains probably flooding out some territories. On the other hand, those with drier conditions, such as Berry Hill appear to have fared better. Higher flock counts in the first winter period were, in January, 35 at Anslow, 23 at Chasewater, 24 at River Sow Meadows and 60 at Whitmore Bent lane; in February 80 at Cannock Chase – Rifle Range, 23 at Doxey and 20 at Tuters Hill. In the second winter period there were 30 at Berry Hill in September, 50 at Whitmore Bent Lane in November and in December, 21 at Doxey and 20 at Whitemoor Haye. W Mid At least 11 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, cf. 12 in 2007. A breeding bird survey involving 69 half-kilometre transects along 15 watercourses across Birmingham recorded a total of eight birds in five of the transects and four of the watercourses: River Cole (east), River Tame (west) and Sutton Park (central and Longmoor). Birds were also present in the

223 breeding season at Benton’s Green, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Brueton Park, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Elmdon Park, Hampton Coppice, Lutley Wedge, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and West Bromwich. High numbers of birds visited Marsh Lane NR during both winter periods, where totals ringed included 34 on January 7th, 63 on October 29th and 45 on December 7th. Birds were also noted at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Babb’s Mill Lake, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Hampton in Arden, Park Lime Pits, Reedswood Park, Westwood Heath and Wollaston.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra Fairly common, though much declined, resident. Warks Singing males were located during the breeding season at: Bidford (at least three in area), Charlecote (two at two sites, bred), Crimscote (five, bred), Curdworth, Dunnington, Farnborough, Lawford Heath (two), Long Itchington (at least eight), Marlcliff, Milcote, Newbold-on-Stour (two), Polesworth, Radford Semele, Salford Priors GP and Wasperton (two). None were present this year at previously regular sites in the far north at Birchmoor and Bramcote Hall. Other summer reports involved a single bird at Ashorne Hill on May 31st and two at Alcester Heath on August 25th, both unusual localities for the species. Winter reports were mainly of very small numbers in the vicinity of breeding sites, but with one outstanding flock of 85 feeding in grassy field margins at Marlcliff on February 2nd. Away from these areas, there were parties of six at Hodnell on February 28th and ten at Birchmoor on October 27th, while one or two were also noted at Draycote, Grandborough and Willoughby during the winter months. Worcs Recorded at Shenstone 11 months of the year (see table), with a maximum of five singing male present in June, while eight juveniles were observed here on July 8th, making this by far, the strongest breeding population in the county.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJ JASOND Shenstone – 2 1 18 5 8 11 4 2 10 7+ 6+

Other reports during the breeding season comprised 28+ at Honeybourne on April 1st, two at Lower Moor on 5th and June 13th, one was singing at Upton-upon-Severn Upper Ham on April 25th, then two singing here on June 8th and 12th, a singing male was at Bricklehampton on April 27th, one flew over Grimley on May 5th, one was singing at Ryall Pits on 15th, while Holt held one or two singing males between 16th-June 11th and 8 singing males were recorded at Wick where three possible juveniles were noted on July 26th. Elsewhere, three were observed along Stanklyn Lane, between Shenstone and Stone on May 26th, Bricklehampton held three on June 1st, two on 5th and two males on July 7th, while counts of singing male involved one at Cropthorne on June 1st, one at West Hagley on 10th, one at Little Comberton on 24th, one at Churchill on July 2nd, three at Caunsall on 4th, one at Honeybourne on 16th and one at Throckmorton Lagoons from 19th-23rd. Finally, two were observed at Bickmarsh on 25th and one at North Littleton on 27th. During the first winter period, Wick held 12 on January 7th and 10 on 16th and singles on 22nd and February 6th, one at Norchard on January 27th, three at Podmoor on February 3rd, singles at Summerfield on 23rd, March 6th and 25th, while Lower Moor held 10 on 13th and two on 17th. Away from Shenstone, the only second winter period sighting comprised three at Wick on December 8th.

224 Staffs

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 No. of 5km Squares 6 6 8 8 10 20 12 11 Max. Flock Size 17 44 6 30 38 25 56 35 Singing Males – – – – 19 25 17-23 22-27

Singing males were located at Barton GP/Catholme (two), Camp Farm (two), Dunston (one), Fradley (one), Iverley (three), Lask Edge (one+), Packington Moor (one), Park Farm, Trysull (one-five), Stourton (one), Upper Whittimere (one), Weeford (one), White- moor Haye (four) and Whittington Barracks (four), Sightings were regular in the White - moor Haye area with 35 the highest count on January 4th well up from last years maximum of 16. The highest flock count at the end of the year was 13 at the same site. Other than the above sites, the only other records were one at Batchacre Hall on January 6th and the odd single from sites neighbouring Whitemoor Haye, namely Alrewas, Croxall and Roddige Farm. W Mid The only breeding season record involved five birds, at least two of which were singing, at Wishaw on May 5th. Otherwise, there were eight birds at Allesley Park on August 30th, one in flight over Meriden on November 3rd and one at Norton on December 30th.

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 A single bird was at Brandon on June 4th.

Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii Staffs Single feral birds of the race minima – Cackling Goose – were at Whitmore Cudmore Fishery on February 18th-19th, at Blithfield on August 8th, 15th and September 17th, at Croxall NR on September 20th and at Copmere on October 10th.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea W Mid A bird was present in Sandwell Valley on October 7th.

Falcated Duck Anas falcata Staffs The escaped drake which was discovered at Copmere on November 26th 2007 remained until April 5th.

225 Blue-winged Teal X Shoveler Staffs A hybrid lingered at Belvide from October 8th until 26th.

Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris Warks A bird was reported at Alvecote on October 27th-28th.

Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus Warks The escaped male was again present in the Alvecote area up to at least April 13th and again from July 24th to the end of the year.

Gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus Staffs A white morph (perhaps a hybrid) sporting jesses was seen flying low over Walley’s Quarry, Keele on June 2nd.

Saker Falco cherrug Warks A bird with jesses was at Coton on October 22nd.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus

2007 Addendum Warks A bird was reported from the Walton Hall area on November 25th.

Lady Amherstʼs Pheasant Chrysolophus amherstiae Warks A bird reported from the Fulbrook area on February 10th had also been seen there on November 6th 2007.

Appendix 2 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 Worcs One at Clifton Pits from September 21st until late November.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, where introduced. Warks One was at Compton Verney on February 18th-19th. Worcs One at Throckmorton Lagoons on January 5th. Staffs Two birds were present at Whitemoor Haye from January 1st until February 11th, with one on September 7th. Two were seen at Blithfield on February 10th and August 7th, then a singleton on October 18th. Elsewhere there were three at Gnosall on February 8th, one at Agardsley Park on April 25th, two at Alton on September 15th, one at Branston GP on 19th and three at Brookley’s Lake on December 26th. W Mid One bird remained at Marsh Lane NR throughout the year.

226 Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Breeds on the high plateaux in central and southern Asia and winters mainly in northern India and Burma. Warks One was at either Brandon or nearby Coombe Abbey during the period January 1st-February 22nd. A single bird was again in the Avon valley between Charlecote and Hampton Lucy during January 9th-14th, with two there on September 14th. A bird seen at Farnborough Park on March 6th and 23rd, was later present at DMC Kineton on various dates from July 28th-October 26th, and at Compton Verney on October 11th.

Orinoco Goose Neochen jubata Amazonia. Staffs Two were seen at Brookhouses on June 22nd-23rd.

Cape/South African Shelduck Tadorna cana Karoo of southern Africa. Warks A female at Draycote from at least June 23rd-July 22nd, was followed by three at the same site on August 17th and again on November 4th.

Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides Australia and Tasmania W Mid A male was seen at Marsh Lane NR on November 16th.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata Lowlands of Mexico to NE Argentina and Brazil. Staffs A pair bred at Tixall and one was seen at Bateswood Lake on November 15th. W Mid The two birds at Walsall Arboretum from 2007 remained all year. Another was noted at Fens Pools on August 21st.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa Forested woodlands and Inland lakes of Canada, south to northern Mexico. Warks Birds continued to be seen at Abbots Salford Pool, with three males and two females on January 22nd, followed by two birds on February 2nd and 26th, and then two males again on April 7th and 20th. Worcs A drake was noted at Upton Warren on September 9th and a female was at Offerton Lane LNR on December 26th. W Mid The drake on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal in central Birmingham from 2006 stayed all year.

Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix Open wetlands in southern South America and the Falkland Islands. Staffs One was present at Blithfield Reservoir on March 31st.

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea Australasia Warks A female at Alvecote on May 21st and again during November was presumably the bird noted here in 2007. Staffs A drake was present at Belvide from August 8th-20th.

227 White-cheeked (Bahama) Pintail Anas bahamensis Locally in South America, the West Indies and Galapagos Islands. Staffs One was seen at Croxall NR on July 4th.

Silver Teal Anas versicolor South America Warks A female was at Alvecote on October 11th.

Cinnamon Teal Anas cyanoptera South America, British Columbia to Mexico. Warks A first-winter male was at Alvecote on September 9th.

Green Pheasant Phasianus versicolor Japan Warks A male at Compton Verney on January 19th was no doubt the same bird that has been present in the local area since at least December 2006.

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Africa Warks Small numbers have been turned out in several parts of the county but as yet there have been no signs of breeding in the wild. Eight were noted at Butler’s End on June 15th, while at least ten were still present at Bunker’s Hill Wood near Dunchurch.

Harrisʼs Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus Semi-arid woodland and scrub in South and Central America, north to southern Texas and Arizona. Warks One was in the Farnborough area from mid September to mid November. W Mid Single birds were noted at West Bromwich on February 8th and the County Recorder’s garden SJ9702 on May 12th.

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis Canada, the USA and south to Mexico. Warks A bird perched in a tree at Alvecote on November 15th was later collected by its owner. A dark morph bird was at Salford Priors GP on December 21st.

Falcon sp. Warks A hybrid Peregrine was in the Dunchurch/Draycote/Grandborough area during November-December.

Palm (Laughing) Dove Streptopelia senegalensis Africa Staffs One was present with the Diamond Dove at Meerbrook on August 12th.

Diamond Dove Geopelia cuneata Australia Staffs One at Meerbrook on February 19th was still present on August 12th.

228 Rosy-faced Lovebird Agapornis roseicollis Africa W Mid A bird of the Lutino variety visited an Oakham garden on September 14th.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Open habitats throughout inland Australia. Warks One at Alvecote on December 23rd.

Mitred Parakeet Aratinga mitrata Forests of South America W Mid One was seen in Sandwell Valley in November.

Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis East Asia, winters India, Thailand, Malaysia Staffs An escapee took up residence in Eccleshall from June 26th until July 10th.

229 Ringing in 2008

Every year our ringing recoveries provide information on three important aspects of ornithology: a) longevity within and between species b) direction and distance of movements c) causes of mortality

We would normally expect a higher mortality in small birds because of their large surface area to volume ratio which results in greater heat losses during periods of cold weather. On the other hand, large birds are less manoeuvrable in flight and are prone to collisions with obstacles – chiefly overhead cables.

The Mute Swan is the largest British bird and we would therefore expect a high longevity in this species. Unfortunately due to their great size and weight they are ponderous in flight and many die in early life as a result of collisions with obstacles. The two Mute Swans aged 17 and 11 years of age demonstrate clearly the high potential life span of these large birds.

The Canada Goose is a close second in size and longevity to the Mute Swan. Both Canada Geese recorded here were aged six and seven years and were both shot during a culling programme. The report also records some remarkable longevity records in passerine species with a nine year old Blackbird and an eight year old Reed Warbler.

Long distance movements always provide interest and in this respect the gull movements are particularly prominent, especially the Black-headed Gull recorded oscillating between Denmark and Stubbers Green over an eight year period and the two birds ringed as nestlings in Kingsbury Water Park in Warwickshire sighted in Ireland.

The longest movement recorded is 4449 kilometres for a Common Tern ringed as a nestling at Kingsbury Water Park in Warwickshire travelling to Senegal and its done this each year over a period of five years. The two duck movements are also worthy of note. The first is for a Eurasian Teal travelling over a thousand kilometres from Portugal to overwinter at Wolvey in Warwickshire and the second is the Eurasian Wigeon ringed at Blithfield Reservoir in 2006 and recovered in Church Leigh in Staffordshire in 2008. The distance of 12 kilometres recorded for this Wigeon is misleading since in-between the bird has made a return journey to Russia. The Barn Owl movement of 74 km is unusually long for this somewhat parochial species.

The report also provides a remarkable site fidelity record for a Reed Warbler ringed at Brandon and re-trapped each year over an eight year period.

I am most grateful to all the individual ringers and the secretaries of the various Ringing Groups who have provided the information on which these Ringing Notes are based.

AE Coleman Ringing Secretary

230 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 2008 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 Manner of recovery Pull Pullus (Nestling) v Caught and released with ring Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) + Shot or killed 1Y Bird in its first year x Found dead or dying 2Y Bird in its second year vv ring read in the field Ad Adult (at least one year old) ? manner of recovery unknown Fg Full grown (Age uncertain)

Sex M Male F Female

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

Mute Swan U9485 Pull 6/6 30.07.96 Clifton Campville, Staffs C & C v 24.01.08 Lade bank, Lincs 122 kms

X0507 Pull 6/6 23.07.97 Polesworth, Warks C & C x 08.02.08 River Avon, Warwick, Warks 39 kms

U0679 Ad F 31.03.91 Tamworth, Staffs C & C v 14.09.08 Marton, Cheshire 73 kms

ZZ2242 Juv 24.11.02 Chasewater, Staffs C & C v 11.10.03 Clifton, Greater Manchester 100 kms v 27.12.04 Moses Gate Country Park, Greater Manchester v 08.10.08 Higher Boarshaw, Greater Manchester

Greater Canada Goose 5214311 Pull 30.06.01 Tamworth, Staffs C & C x 12.11.08 South Derbyshire 49 kms

5214053 Ad 30.06.01 Stubbers Green, W. Mids C & C x 30.01.08 Ross on Wye, Hereford and Worcs 86 kms

Eurasian Wigeon FP35839 Ad M 25.02.06 Blithfield, Staffs MRG x 08.11.08 Church Leigh, Staffs 12 kms

231 Eurasian Teal J008595 1Y 11.01.06 Paul da Madriz, Coimbra,Beira Litoral, Portugal x 11.11.07 Wolvey, Warks 1481 kms

Common Kestrel H75957 Juv 17.06.07 Mancetter, Warks BRG x 30.05.08 Burton on Trent, Staffs 31 kms

Black-headed Gull AA2580 3Y+ 17.03.00 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 26.03.00 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 04.04,00 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 29.06.00 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 25.03.01 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 24.03.02 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 20.03.03 Hvidovre, Denmark vv 07.04.03 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 02.03.04 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids vv 07.04.04 Holme, Denmark vv 21.10.04 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids vv 16.02.05 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids vv 26.03.05 Copenhagen, Denmark vv 24.11.05 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids vv 31.10.06 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids vv 05.01.08 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids EL59494 Pull 14.06.05 Kingsbury Water Park,. Warks MRG v v 03.08.05 Galway, Eire v v 13.12.05 Galway, Eire v v 17.07.07 Galway, Eire v v 09.11.08 Nimmon’s Pier, Galway, Eire 500 kms EL11413 Pull 14.06.05 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG v v 20.11.08 The Lough, Cork, Eire 469 kms

Lesser Black-backed Gull EA639820 Pull 02.07.05 Calais, Umicore, France 30.07.05 Calais, Umicore, France 16.06.06 Douro Litoral, Portugal 12.02.07 Agidar, Morocco 15.07.08 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids YJ55 Ad 12.08.08 Sandgerdi, S.W. Iceland vv 13.09.08 Stubbers Green, Aldridge, W.Mids 4206292 Pull 27.07.99 Vest-Agder, Norway v 26.09.99 Seine – Maritime, France v 14.10.99 Coimbra, Portugal v 28.07.03 Zuid – Holland, Netherlands v 25.09.08 Stubbers Green, W.Mids

232 Common Redshank Colour ring Ad Winter 06 Hull. East Yorkshire vv 16.03.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks 170 kms

Common Tern

SV38925 Pull 08.06.04 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG v 04.06.08 La Somone, Senegal 4449 kms

Barn Owl GJ21484 Pull 15.06.05 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG v 16.09.07 Nr Aston, Northants v 13.05.08 Nr Aston, Northants 74 kms

Blackbird RP19831 3M 12.12.98 Lillington, Leamington, Warks BRG v 03.04.08 Lillington, Leamington, Warks 0 kms

Sedge Warbler T757313 3 06.09.05 Brandon Marsh, Warks BRG v 02.06.07 River Almond, Edinburgh 416 kms

Reed Warbler V307546 4 20.05.07 Drakelow, Derbys v 05.05.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks 49 kms

VO11197 4F 15.07.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks BRG v 05.06.08 Nr Ruxley, Greater London 152 kms

P306208 4 17.06.00 Brandon Marsh, Warks BRG v 23.06.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks 0 kms

V234394 3 06.08.06 Northampton, Northants v 23.06.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks 38 Kms v 29.05.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks v 10.06.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks v 05.08.08 Brandon Marsh, Warks

Goldfinch T810258 4M 13.05.07 Willingham by Stow, Lincs v 16.12.07 Wolverton, Warks 139 kms

Siskin H961638 5M 22.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC v 28.01.08 Clifton, Nottinghamshire 47 kms

T942737 5M 13.03.06 Brewood, Staffs BS & M v 10.03.08 Dorridge, Solihull, W.Mids 44 kms

233 V768344 2M 19.02.08 Kenilworth, Warks BS & M v 26.03.08 Dunwich, Suffolk 216 kms

V704699 6M 18.02.08 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC v 06.04.08 Neerpelt, Limburg, Belgium 513 kms

V157913 5F 29.03.06 Bonehill,.Tamworth, Staffs AEC v 24.06.08 Inverarnie, Highland Region, Scotland 553 kms

H961700 5F 24.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC x 25.07.08 Latheronwheel, Highland Region, Scotland 637kms

Reed Bunting V768282 3F 23.10.07 Berkswell, Soliuhull, W.Mids WRG v 26.11.07 Swindon, Wiltshire 95 kms

Key to Contributors to the Ringing Report

AEC AE Coleman BRG Brandon Ringing Group BS & M Bache, Shearwood and McShane C & C Coleman and Coleman MRG Mercian Ringing Group WRG Ringing Group

234 Satellite-tagged Hen Harrier from Bowland winters in Tame Valley

John Harris

Whilst walking along the eastern section of Dosthill lake, my local patch, on 31st October 2008 I flushed a ring-tailed Hen Harrier which gave some great views as it quartered certain areas of the lake. Like most Hen Harriers I thought it may stay for a few days before moving on; although in the winter of 2005-2006 we had a ring-tailed Hen Harrier remain from the end of September to the end April, which was nice.

The Harrier was seen on sub - sequent days around Richard’s Meadow at Kingsbury Water Park, Fishers Mill Meadow and Dosthill Lake. It was at Dosthill Lake on 10th Novem - ber 2008, while watching gulls, that Alan Dean saw the Harrier fly past at close range and believed he saw a trans - mitter aerial attached to the Harrier’s back at an angle of 45 degrees. Alan then con- tacted various organisations and eventually was put in touch with Stephen Murphy of Ring-tailed Hen Harrier with aerial, Bob Duckhouse Natural England, who is res - ponsible for attaching transmitters to Hen Harriers in England, particularly at Bowland on the border of Lancashire and North Yorkshire. Information was then exchanged between Stephen Murphy of Natural England, Nick Martin Head Warden at RSPB Middleton lakes and local birders.

No satellite transmitter signals were being received by Stephen at the time so Jim O’Donnel, who was contracted by Natural England and Lancashire County Council to assist Stephen with radio tracking, visited RSPB Middleton Lakes on 16th November 2008 and tried to locate the Harrier using a hand-held receiver and aerial to sweep the site to establish whether the bird had a radio or a satellite tag fitted. Radio transmitters transmit a signal over 40 miles and this can be located to source whereas signals from satellite transmitters can be picked up anywhere in the world and the transmitter located within 150m day or night. Close to dusk Jim did get a signal from a frequency linked to a female Hen Harrier from Northumberland. However, the bird was not seen and it is known that falconers also use this frequency and, as falconers are known to operate in this area, no conclusions could be drawn.

Alan’s observation was proven when keen bird photographer Bob Duckhouse took some pictures of the Harrier on 19th November 2008 showing the transmitter on its back. Stephen Murphy was sent the pictures and was able to confirm that the type of transmitter

235 seen on this particular Harrier was a satellite transmitter. He also confirmed that the Harrier was a first-winter male showing central grey feathers below the white rump as seen in Bob Duckhouse’s images. He also noted that it was almost conclusively a male Hen Harrier from Bowland, from a brood of four with satellite transmitters fitted on 17th June 2008.

Over the next few weeks, the satellite tagged Harrier was seen by many observers in the middle Tame Valley, sometimes further away from its favoured location of Dosthill Lake. Other experienced birders, including Julian Allen, suggested that an adult female Hen Harrier was also in the area around the Christmas period while an adult male passed through on Christmas day (Brian Kington). On January 29th 2009 John Oates identified a first-winter male at Richard’s Meadow and a ring-tail was also reported the following day by W.J. Egmont. Sightings of the tagged Hen Harrier subsequently became more sporadic, and other sightings suggesting the Harrier or harriers were hunting farther away came from near Lea Marston Settling Lakes on December 12th 2008 and at Ladywalk on February 20th 2009. The last sighting of a ring-tailed Hen Harrier was at Kingsbury Water Park’s Richard’s Meadow, by Chris Cooke of Yardley on February 23rd 2009.

Information received from Stephen Murphy of Natural England shows that the first-winter male Hen Harrier had been satellite-tracked since February 2009 to Wigan in Lancashire, near to Martin Mere LWT and to the Ribble Estuary near Preston. Finally, on April 4th 2009, Stephen Murphy saw this first-winter male Hen Harrier back in the Lake District in tip top condition, in breeding territory, He added that both male and female Hen Harriers can breed when less than one year old and that each year at Bowland, several of the previous year’s young breed and rear young successfully.

Stephen Murphy’s researches with tagged harriers have shown that the traditional view, that harriers breeding in northern England head for the coast in winter, is untrue. The Tame Valley individual, which spent a good part of the winter in central England, was an illustration of this. However, most harriers from Stephen’s studies do move north and east from the breeding area, so the Tame Valley harrier was unusual in this respect. Although it moved north and east initially, it then moved significantly south.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the following for their contributions to this article: Alan Dean, Bob Duckhouse, Stephen Murray and Jim O’Donnel.

236 Berry Hill by the Seasons – Past and Present

Steve Turner, October 2009

Lying at the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, Berry Hill is an area of reclaimed coal industry land comprising approximately 300 acres of grassland meadow, horse paddocks, scrub, hawthorn hedgerows, a small area of Reedmace Typha and a few scattered pools, but no large areas of open water. It is surrounded on all sides by the urban areas of Fenton, Bentilee and Longton. It thus forms a green oasis which, in com- bination with the higher ground, makes it very attrac - tive to birdlife, particularly during periods of passage. More and more birders are now visiting the site because of its proven status as a migration hot-spot.

Up-to-date information on the site can be obtained from the following web site, which is maintained and updated as and when new and rare birds visit Radio Masts at Berry Hill, Dave Emley the area. http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&t=h&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid= 118209269367094647896.0004490ebab0414443ff9

Spring migration

In recent years, regular coverage by a few dedicated local observers has established Berry Hill as one of the best places to observe passerine migrants (particularly chats) in Staffordshire.

During early March, Stonechats start to build up and can number up to a dozen or so. From mid-March onwards things then start to get more interesting when, typically, the first Northern Wheatears arrive. Numbers gradually increase through March, reaching their peak in late April. Counts of 20 to 30 are regular, with an impressive maximum count of 62 on April 25th 2007. In mid-May there is a smaller secondary peak, and many of the birds passing through at this time appear larger and brighter than the first arrivals in March. These later birds are of the Greenland race and, as the name suggests, they are bound for all points north-west of Scotland! Larger falls of Wheatears are often associated with south or south-easterly winds with overnight rain. It is surprising how numbers can vary throughout a single day, with birds arriving in the paddocks on top of Berry Hill and then moving north, via the lower paddocks adjacent to Fenton Industrial Estate.

237 Ring Ouzel is a scarce visitor from late March through to late April, often favouring the western area of horse paddocks between the mast and Fenton Cemetery.

By mid-April further variety is added by regular Redstarts, Grasshopper Warblers (as many as 11 ‘reeling’ males have been present in recent years), the odd Tree Pipit, and a Yellow Wagtail perhaps. By the third week of April the first Whinchats arrive, with day counts of half a dozen or so of this attractive little chat being not unusual. May usually sees one or two Spotted Flycatchers passing through.

An outstanding list of local ‘rarities’ at this time of year includes, Bittern (April 1993), Dotterel (April 2009), Whimbrel, Bar-tailed Godwit, Marsh Harrier, Red Kite, Osprey, Quail, Waxwing, Hoopoe (May 2008), and Lapland Bunting (March 2008). As with any other site, patience and persistence, plus a bit of blind optimism and luck, are all essential ingredients in finding something unusual!

The three charts below are compiled from all records of spring migrants in the four years 2005-2008.

Summer

Nine species of warbler remain to breed, including Grasshopper with up to 11 reeling birds, Sedge with 10 singing birds, and Reed which is a recent coloniser, with three singing males in the small area of reeds on the south- eastern edge of the site. Whitethroats are very visible and vocal with around 30 territories. Willow Warbler is on the increase with up to 16 singing birds. Reed Bunting is another high profile breeder whose numbers are increasing, with a recent count of 27 territories. There are also good populations of Linnet with 12 pairs, and Skylark with around 16 singing males. The unobtrusive Bullfinch is resident here with up to eight pairs.

House Sparrow, which is in decline over much of the country, can be seen in large numbers. A recent survey produced a count of around 280 birds, mainly located around eight loose colonies. Green Woodpeckers usuallymake an appearance in August prior to

238 over-wintering. Cuckoo and Grey Partridge were formerly very common, with coveys of 20-30 of the latter, but sadly there are now just the odd records of singletons. Add regular sightings of Hobby in early Summer to all of the above, and Berry Hill is clearly far from quiet even when migration is not underway.

Autumn migration Given favourable weather conditions to encourage migration within the UK (which for Berry Hill seems to be winds with a northerly component), and perhaps coupled with a successful breeding season, return migration on Berry Hill can begin as early as mid-July! Just such conditions in July 2008 produced totals of five Whinchats, five Redstarts, two juvenile Stonechats and a Wheatear, all topped off with a fine Black Redstart – amazing really for a landlocked, urban site in ‘Summer’.

August has yet to produce anything outstanding, although a Wood Warbler in 2006 was an excellent record for the site. This time of year also sees finch numbers build, with flocks of several hundred Goldfinches being particularly noticeable, and these in turn have attracted the attention of a Merlin on a couple of occasions recently.

Numbers of Whinchats tend to start to build up during the latter half of August, peaking usually during the first 10 days of September. During this period in 2005, Berry Hill witnessed one of its most spectacular ‘falls’ to date when, on the 11th of September, a combination of north-easterly winds, low cloud, and rain brought minimum counts of 32 Whinchats and 60 Wheatears, with quality provided by a Wryneck and a Black Redstart. It is interesting to note that at the same time, the English east coast was also enjoying a deluge of common and scarce migrants. So, if the weather charts look good for a ‘fall’ on the coast, then Berry Hill might be worth a look!

October sees winter thrushes come to the fore, and Ring Ouzel can be hoped for from mid- month onwards. At this time numbers of Stonechats are on the increase, regularly reaching double figures, and there may even be a lingering Whinchat around too. Historically October is also a good month to find Short-eared Owl on Berry Hill, with peak counts occurring in the late 1980s and regular sightings up until the mid-1990s. Sadly, since those days, increased amounts of grazing and disturbance have meant that conditions are less suitable for this unobtrusive species, although the odd one or two is still recorded.The star bird of October however, is undoubtedly the juvenile Red-backed Shrike which was present in the lower western paddocks area in 2006.

The charts below are compiled from all records of autumn migrants during the years 2005-08 and show the peak periods of passage for the three species selected. Whilst very few Wheatears stay for more than a day, some Redstarts and Whinchats have shown an inclination to feed up for several days before moving on.

239 Late Autumn/Winter Predictably a quieter period, but not without interest. Stonechats are quite visible during this period, residing until March with at least six birds present, but in some years there can be as many as 10-12. Searches of boggier areas may produce one or two Jack Snipe and up to around 20 Common Snipe. There is still the chance of a hunting Short-eared Owl but nowhere near the numbers that could be seen here in the late 80s and early 90s, when a peak count of 11 was recorded roosting on the slag banks near to the mast in December 1988.

During late winter mornings, up to 70 Collared Doves disperse form a roost in the adjacent Fenton Cemetery – this is a species which rarely gets birder’s pulses racing, but large gatherings such as this are always notable.

Snow Bunting has been recorded once in late Autumn and Little Owl can, on occasions, can be seen perched in the areas of Hawthorn bushes. Groups of Golden Plover can sometimes be seen in the western paddocks along with the more regular Lapwing flocks.

Berry Hill is also a good vantage point from which to observe any movements of Pink- footed Geese between their wintering grounds in East Anglia and Lancashire – at least 1000 flew west in January 2007.

At the time of writing (Oct 2009) a total of 137 species has been recorded – hopefully more coverage will continue to add to this!

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Nick Pomiankowski and Russell Toon for comments and assistance in the preparation of this article and to Nick Pomiankowski for the migration charts.

240 Bird Ringing at Belvide – an overview

Colin McShane (on behalf of Brewood Ringers) December 2009.

Members of the Brewood Ringing Group have been ringing at Belvide for quite some time, albeit on an ad hoc basis. However, in 2006, we decided to discuss with the management group, the possibility of approaching ringing in a more systematic way. It was felt that this would provide much more meaningful results which would both enhance the knowledge about birds at the reserve, as well has possibly providing some information to help with the management of the reserve.

The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) have been promoting a scheme called ‘Constant Effort’, whereby ringers are en- couraged to make a set number of visits to a site on given dates using a standard amount of netting – thereby providing year on year results of a comparative nature. We felt that we were not in a position to start with a full blown scheme such as this because we did not know the site well enough, so we wanted more flexibility to explore. As things have transpired, we now have fairly standard net sites etc - but we do appreciate the ability to make visits as and when we like to accommodate variable factors such as weather, water levels, and the availability of ringers.

We also like to publicise the sessions to encourage members of the public to come and see our activities, and this is not always consistent with the more scientific basis of Constant Effort. Nevertheless, we do feel that our results are bearing fruit, with some evidence being used to shape the habitat management at Belvide, and an increasingly better grasp of the importance of the reserve to both resident and visiting birds. Having said all that, there is still much to learn as the results this year of our first analysis of nest box success shows. The following is an overview of what we have been doing – more details and annual reports can be found at www.brewoodringers.com

When and How?

The majority of the ringing effort is during the period early July to the end of September. This enables us to monitor breeding success and migration of passerines in particular, through the reserve. We have increasingly attempted to monitor the roosting Reed Buntings and Starlings (when they are present) in the two areas of Phragmites reeds.

241 In 2009, for the first time, we concentrated on the large number of nest boxes around the reserve – then monitored the chicks after fledging in early June. The feeder by the Gazebo has also been a focus of our work – primarily to try and get a handle on the number of Tree Sparrows on the reserve since this appears to be something of a ‘hot spot’ for this species. Most catching is done using mist nets, although we have used walk-in traps for Water Rail occasionally.

What have we found?

Quite a lot – but this would take more space than we have available to cover in detail – so we have highlighted some general areas from which more detail can be found by logging- on to the website and tracking down the annual reports.

Overall, we have ringed over 4000 new birds of 49 species in the last four years. Numbers have increased each year, but this has been mainly due to more efficient netting – although numbers in 2007 were much reduced by the very high water levels in the reservoir which significantly reduced the breeding success of key species such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. The importance of water levels has been mentioned in our reports in an attempt to demonstrate to our colleagues at British Waterways the impact of water levels on birds.

Sticking with Reed Warblers, we are building up a picture of the interactions between Belvide birds and those at other reed-beds. ‘Our’ birds have been recovered in Shropshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Humberside – amply demonstrating their part in mixing the gene pool. However, it’s intriguing as to why we have had so few recoveries of this species ringed elsewhere.

The differing fates of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler are as interesting as they are difficult to explain. The increase in local breeding of Chiffchaff is no doubt important in the increased numbers we catch, but we have also had recoveries from as far afield as Buckinghamshire, showing that we are not only dealing with local birds. Willow warbler breeding locally is patchy and generally following the national decline. Variations in the catches of these seem to be determined more by local weather during migration than anything else. The conditions in August 2008 were ‘good’ in that migration was heavy, but local conditions also appeared to make birds drop in for a rest and food.

Resident numbers can be predictable, such as the reduction in Long Tailed Tit, Goldcrest and Wren this year after the first harsh winter since ringing began. Equally however, they can be puzzling. Dunnock and Robin have very similar ( to our eyes anyway) breeding requirements. Over the first three years the pattern of their numbers was very similar – yet this year Dunnocks at Belvide pushed on to their highest numbers while Robins fell back to almost their lowest; and we have no idea why.

242 Tree Sparrows are worthy of more investigation than we have been able to afford them. We have explored the idea of a colour ringing scheme, but the BTO feels that there are sufficient such schemes operating on this species. Numbers caught have varied quite markedly but the relationship to breeding success appears low. What is more important in this species is its ability to avoid being caught! They become extremely wary as soon as a net is erected so numbers caught are more a function luck than anything else. One fascinating recovery is of a young bird caught at a feeder which was subsequently recaptured north of Manchester. This made the national ringing report as one of the furthest movements of this normally very sedentary species.

In a similar vein, Reed Buntings are thought to be relatively sedentary, but results at Belvide suggest a much more complex system at work. Firstly, a bird caught at roost in the reeds last winter was recaptured apparently breeding on Humberside, proving that these birds do move considerable distances – even if only during harsh weather. Repeat roost netting this winter is highlighting another dimension to this bird’s movements. At four consecutive netting sessions separated by about 10 days, approximately the same number (14) of Reed Buntings have been caught. We estimate from watching birds drop into the roost, that we catch the majority of birds available. What is interesting is that each catch comprises of a ratio of 3:1 new (i.e. unringed) to retraps. This suggests that there is a reasonably constant movement of birds through the area, with only small numbers staying at the site.

The most recent puzzle concerns the fate of birds reared in the nest boxes. Large numbers of Blue Tit and Great Tit chicks were ringed for the first time this year in early June. Weather was good and success was high in the nest box scheme. We anticipated that we would spend most of the late summer period re-trapping these young birds. How wrong we were! Very few were re-captured so, had there been large-scale mortality or had the youngsters been ‘seen off’ by their parents and moved to new areas? We shall continue to monitor this aspect over the years to see if we can come up with a plausible solution.

Finally, while there is no doubt that the most valuable results we get are from the regular birds on the reserve, there is no doubt that the occasional unusual species really gives a boost when ringers are flagging after a series of 5.30 am starts. Kingfisher, Sparrowhawk, Swift, Water Rail, Grasshopper Warbler, Redstart, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher and of course the single Cetti’s Warbler (opposite) have all been highs over the years.

In Conclusion

One very pleasing aspect has been the reasonably large number of visitors who have spent time at the ringing base asking pertinent questions, taking photos and we hope getting sensible answers. If anyone would like to pay us a visit, all of the sessions during the late summer period are advertised on the Brewood Ringers website, and everyone will be made to feel welcome.

243 Finally, we are very grateful to the West Midland Bird Club for giving us permission to ring at the site; and to the Belvide management group for their continued support in many ways – not least in their encouragement for our activities.

The decline of the Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus in Staffordshire

DW Yalden Honorary Reader in Vertebrate Zoology, School of Life Sciences, University of Manchester High View, Tom Lane, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak SK23 9UN.

Introduction

The Red Grouse now has only a marginal presence in Staffordshire. Those on the N Staffs moors are at one edge of their national range, and seem vulnerable to extinction. A specific survey of Red Grouse in the Peak District (Yalden 1972, 1979a), two general surveys of moorland birds in the Peak District (Brown & Shepherd 1991, Carr & Middleton 2004) and two specific surveys of the N Staffs moors (Waterhouse 1985, Brindley et al. 1992) have documented numbers and range here. Because the wider surveys omitted several smaller fragments of moorland, especially in the SW of the Peak District, these have been targeted in two supplementary surveys (Yalden 1994, 2010). The results of the 1994 survey for Staffordshire were summarised by Yalden (1995) and this paper re-examines the status of grouse in the county at the moment.

Methods

In all these surveys, the 1-km squares (monads) were the unit of survey, and results are expressed as numbers of squares containing grouse, numbers /km2, and, where moors were large enough (requiring at least 30 min), grouse/hr. Traces (feathers, droppings) were recorded for squares where no grouse were seen. Counts have been undertaken over winter (November-March), because grouse are them usually established on territory (snow permitting) and detectable. Earlier in the autumn, numbers can be inflated by the recent breeding season, and families can be still aggregated in packs, while from Apr onwards, they become much more secretive and harder to count as they settle down to breeding. Both counts of individuals and estimates of the numbers of occupied territories have been made (a territorial male by itself, or a pair or trio together).

Results

In total, 96 grouse were counted on the N Staffs moors in 2008-2010, representing 54 territories in 21 monads; there were traces in another 2 monads. This indicates only a slight reduction in numbers from the situation in 1993-94, when 101 grouse were counted in 29 monads, and traces in 3 more. The reduction in range, when the species had already a restricted range, is more concerning than the modest change in numbers.

In 1969-72, 452 grouse were counted in North Staffs, occupying 41 monads, and their

244 population was estimated as 982 pairs. Thus their range in Staffs is now half what it was, and their numbers are fewer than a quarter. Only 4 monads in this area had no grouse then, and one more had traces, whereas there are now 21 negative squares and 2 more with traces. Whereas 20+ grouse were counted then in 6 monads, none produced such high counts in 1993-4 or 2008-10.

The average of 20 timed counts in 2008-10 gave 2.4 grouse/hr (range 0-12). A small sample of counts on the main moors of the Peak District over the same winters suggested 10.6 grouse/hr (range 0.4-18.5), so numbers on the N Staffs moors are about 20% of those elsewhere, though the highest densities are comparable.

Discussion

In 1969-72, both the Swythamley Estate, covering Gun Hill, the Roaches and Gradbach Hill, and the Harper Crewe Estate, including Middle Hills across to Swallow Moss and Revidge, were well-managed grouse moors, with 2 full-time gamekeepers, and a good pattern of small burnt patches of heather. Most of the N Staffs moors now have long, leggy heather, too tall to allow young grouse to feed. Gun Hill, for instance, now seems to have no grouse, and the old burns are now well grown. It would not be impossible to reverse the decline. Gradbach Hill had a good population, with 21 grouse counted, in 1969. As the moor went out of management, it became very overgrazed by trespassing sheep and cattle, and the heather declined to negligible extent during the 1980s. Grouse declined from 17 in 1974, to 3 in 1985 and only 1 in 1992 (Brindley et al. 1992). When the livestock were removed, heather, and grouse, recovered, so that 2 pairs were present in 1993-4. Without active management, the heather got too uniformly long, and grouse were again lost in the late 1990s. However, a number of patches were recently mown, and 4 pairs were present, each on a cut patch, in 2009. Grouse respond quite rapidly to positive management. Fires, deliberate or accidental, also quickly attract grouse – the large fire on Revidge in 2004 had 4 pairs in 2009. On the Swythamley Estate, where up to 139 grouse were counted in 1969-72 on Back Forest and the Roaches, there were still an estimated 42 pairs in 1978 (Yalden 1979b). Only 25 grouse (15 pairs) were counted in 1994, and 21 (12 pairs) in 2010. There have been no recent burns on Back Forest, and the moor is turning into birch scrub; from 8 pairs here in 1978, there is now only 1 pair. On the Roaches, the large burns from the mid-1970s have barely recovered as heather moor due to the serious summer grazing pressure from sheep. There have been a few more recent burns here, but the grouse population is only around 11 pairs, well below the 31 estimated in 1978. Here, again, grouse respond rapidly to habitat improvements, but the Peak Park (who have owned this area since 1981) has been unable to sustain the traditional pattern of moorland management.

In the Peak District as a whole, grouse numbers have increased over the last 40 years, as management of moors has resumed and more gamekeepers have been employed, assisted by payments under ESA and similar schemes. In 1990, Brown & Shepherd (1991) recorded 2337 Red Grouse in 483 monads in the Peak District, and the new survey of moorland birds commissioned by the Moors for the Future project in 2004 found 5598 grouse in 432 monads (Carr & Middleton 2004). Thus the declines in North Staffs are not part of a larger local trend, but contradict it.

245 References

Brindley, E., Lucas, F. & Waterhouse, M. (1992). North Staffordshire Moors Survey, 1992. Unpubl. rep., R.S.P.B., Droitwich. Brown, A.F. & Shepherd, K. (1991) Breeding birds of the South Pennine moors. Joint Nature Conservation Committee Report 7: 1081. JNCC, Peterborough. Carr, G. & Middleton, P. (2004). Breeding bird survey of the Peak District moorlands. Moors for the Future Report 1. Moors for the Future, Castleton. Waterhouse, M. (1985). North Staffordshire Moors Survey, 1992. Unpubl. rep., R.S.P.B., Droitwich. Yalden, D.W. (1972) The Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus scoticus (Lath.)) in the Peak District. Naturalist 97: 89-102. Yalden, D.W. (1979a) An estimate of the number of Red Grouse in the Peak District. Naturalist 104: 5-8. Yalden, D.W. (1979b) Birds of the Swythamley Estate. West Midland Bird Club Annual Report 45 (for 1978): 14-22. Yalden, D.W. (1994) The changing status of Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus on peripheral moorlands in the Peak District. Naturalist 119: 61-65. Yalden, D.W. (1995) Red Grouse in Staffordshire. West Midland Bird Club Annual Report 60 (for 1993): 19-21. Yalden, D.W. (2010) Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus scotica on the Peripheral Moors of the Peak District. Naturalist (in press).

Table 1. Numbers of Red Grouse recorded in 1-km squares of N Staffordshire. No seen 1969-72 1993-94 2008-10 0 4 11 21 traces 1 3 2 1-4 13 21 11 5-9 10 7 8 10-19 10 1 2 20+ 7 0 0 +ve monads 41 29 21 No Grouse 452 101 96

1969-72 1993-94 2008 -10

70 70 70 CH DE CH DE CH DE

60 60 60

00 10 00 10 00 10

20+ 10-19 5-9 1-4 tr 0 Fig. 1. Distribution of Red Grouse in Staffordshire by monad in the 3 surveys, 1969-72, 1993-94 and 2008-10 (numbers of grouse counted, rather than estimated territories). The hatched line is the county boundary against Cheshire (CH) and Derbyshire (DE).

246 County Lists

The following tables show 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 2008 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 2008 2008 2008 2008 Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus Wa, St, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Bean Goose Anser fabalis A 2004 2006 2008 2007 Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons A 2008 2008 2008 2006 Greylag Goose Anser anser 2008 2008 2008 2008 Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Brent Goose Branta bernicla A 2008 2008 2008 2007 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Wa, WM 2008 2008 2008 2007 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna 2008 2008 2008 2008 Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata 2008 2008 2008 2008 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope 2008 2008 2008 2008 American Wigeon Anas americana A 2002 2008 2006 0 Gadwall Anas strepera 2008 2008 2008 2008 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca 2008 2008 2008 2008 Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis A 2004 2004 2002 0 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 2008 2008 2008 2008 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 2008 2008 2008 2008 Garganey Anas querquedula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Blue-winged Teal Anas discors BBRC 1989 1989 2001 0 Shoveler Anas clypeata 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 2008 2008 2008 2008 Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris A 2006 2005 2007 2001 Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca A 2007 2006 2006 1998 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Greater Scaup Aythya marila 2008 2007 2008 2008

247 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis BBRC 2008 2006 2006 0 Common Eider Somateria mollissima A 1993 2001 2002 1993 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis A 2008 2006 2008 2005 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 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 2008 2008 2008 2008 Smew Mergellus albellus Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2006 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator A 2008 2008 2008 2006 Goosander Mergus merganser 2008 2008 2008 2008 Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Wo, Wa, WM 0 0 2008 1868 Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix A 0 1915 2003 1897 Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa 2008 2008 2008 2008 Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix A 2008 2008 2008 2007 Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata A 2008 1997 2008 2001 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica A 2007 1995 2000 1997 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A 2008 2004 2008 2003 Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis A 2004 2000 2008 1996 Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea A 0 0 1971 0 Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus A 2006 2006 2008 2004 European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus A 1983 2003 1990 1970 Leach’s Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa A 2007 2006 2007 2006 Northern Gannet Morus bassanus A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 2008 2008 2008 2008 Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A 2008 2004 2006 2005 Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris A 2008 2008 2008 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 2007 2004 0 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis BBRC 1994 1993 2008 0 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great White Egret Ardea alba A 2008 2007 2008 2002 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2008 2008 2008 2008 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 2008 2005 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus BBRC 0 0 2008 0 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia A 2008 2001 2008 2008 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A 2008 2008 2006 1996 Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2007 Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Black Kite Milvus migrans A 0 1986 1991 2004 Red Kite Milvus milvus WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla A 1891 1945 1905 0 Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Wo, Wa, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A 2008 2008 2008 2007 Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus A 2008 2006 2006 1951 Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis A 2008 2008 2008 2007 Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo 2008 2008 2008 2008 Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus A 2005 1979 2001 1996 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos A 0 0 nk 0 Osprey Pandion haliaetus Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008

248 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus A 2003 2001 2002 0 Merlin Falco columbarius WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Hobby Falco subbuteo 2008 2008 2008 2008 Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus BBRC 1852 0 <1844 0 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Water Rail Rallus aquaticus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Spotted Crake Porzana porzana A 2007 2002 2006 1998 Little Crake Porzana parva BBRC 1974 0 0 0 Corn Crake Crex crex A 2005 1988 1988 1965 Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Coot Fulica atra 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Crane Grus grus A 2003 2008 2006 2005 Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax BBRC 0 0 c1899 <1893 Great Bustard Otis tarda BBRC 0 c1825 0 0 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus BBRC 1987 2006 1995 0 Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus A 2001 2008 2006 2007 Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola BBRC 1996 1994 0 0 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 2008 2008 2008 2008 Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus A 1993 1940 1995 0 Dotterel Charadrius morinellus A 2002 2008 2007 1978 American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica A 1991 0 0 0 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria 2008 2008 2008 2008 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus BBRC 1975 0 0 0 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red Knot Calidris canutus WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Sanderling Calidris alba WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Little Stint Calidris minuta WM 2008 2008 2008 2004 Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii A 2008 2008 2008 2005 Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla BBRC 2002 1988 2002 0 White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis A 0 1996 1989 0 Baird’s Sandpiper Calidris bairdii BBRC 1996 0 2005 0 Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos A 2007 2008 2008 2006 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea WM 2008 2008 2008 2002 Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima A 1993 1988 2008 1985 Dunlin Calidris alpina 2008 2008 2008 2008 Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus BBRC 1985 0 2004 0 Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis A 1995 0 1980 0 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 2008 2008 2008 2008 Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Snipe Gallinago media BBRC <1886 0 1954 1995 Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus BBRC 1983 2006 0 0 Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 2008 2008 2008 2008 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica WM 2008 2008 2008 2007 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 2008 2008 2008 2008 Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda BBRC 1851 0 0 0 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Wa, WM 2008 2007 2008 2008 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis BBRC 0 0 1974 0 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2008 2008 2008 2008 Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BBRC 0 0 1995 0 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008

249 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2008 2008 2008 2008 Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius BBRC 2007 0 2008 2004 Turnstone Arenaria interpres WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor BBRC 1996 2007 0 0 Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus A 2000 2007 2004 1893 Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus A 1997 1999 2007 1985 Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus A 2007 1996 2005 2000 Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus A 2003 1987 2004 1991 Great Skua Stercorarius skua A 2008 2000 2006 1994 Sabine’s Gull Xema sabini A 1989 2007 2008 0 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla 2008 2008 2008 2008 Bonaparte’s Gull Chroicocephalus philadelphia BBRC 1992 0 1996 0 Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla BBRC 0 2005 0 1997 Franklin’s Gull Larus pipixcan BBRC 2008 0 2006 0 Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Gull Larus canus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis A 1998 2008 2008 1996 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Herring Gull Larus argentatus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Kumlienʼs Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni A 2008 2008 1999 0 Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata BBRC 0 0 1852 0 Little Tern Sternula albifrons A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica BBRC 2006 <1901 1989 1896 Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia BBRC 1993 1971 1999 1979 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida BBRC 2005 1994 2007 0 Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2008 2008 2008 2008 White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus A 2008 2000 2008 1977 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 2008 2008 2008 2008 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii A 2002 1999 2006 0 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Guillemot Uria aalge A nk 0 1920 1980 Razorbill Alca torda A nk 1953 0 1912 Little Auk Alle alle A 2007 1998 2001 1999 Puffin Fratercula arctica A 1984 1963 1983 1999 Pallas’s Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus BBRC 1888 1888 1908 1888 Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2008 2008 2008 2008 Stock Dove Columba oenas 2008 2008 2008 2008 Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2008 2008 2008 2008 Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur St, WM 2008 2008 2008 2007 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Barn Owl Tyto alba 2008 2008 2008 2008 Little Owl Athene noctua 2008 2008 2008 2008 Tawny Owl Strix aluco 2008 2008 2008 2008 Long-eared Owl Asio otus Wa, Wo, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Tengmalm’s Owl Aegolius funereus BBRC 0 1901 0 0 European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2005 2008 2005 White-throated Needle-tail Hirundapus caudacutus BBRC 0 0 1991 0

250 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Swift Apus apus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Alpine Swift Apus melba A 2003 1997 1996 1988 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon BBRC 0 0 2005 0 European Bee-eater Merops apiaster A 2008 2007 2008 2008 European Roller Coracias garrulus BBRC 0 0 1908 0 Hoopoe Upupa epops A 2006 2007 2008 2006 Wryneck Jynx torquilla A 2008 2008 2005 2006 Green Woodpecker Picus viridis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major 2008 2008 2008 2008 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 2008 2008 2008 2008 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus A 2005 2000 1997 1990 Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 2005 2008 2006 2003 Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor BBRC 0 1987 0 0 Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor A 2008 2008 2008 1998 Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator A 0 1893 0 1999 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius 2008 2008 2008 2008 Magpie Pica pica 2008 2008 2008 2008 Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 0 1826 0 0 Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Rook Corvus frugilegus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Carrion Crow Corvus corone 2008 2008 2008 2008 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix A 1987 1983 1994 1984 Common Raven Corvus corax 2008 2008 2008 2008 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Tit Parus major 2008 2008 2008 2008 Coal Tit Periparus ater 2008 2008 2008 2008 Willow Tit Poecile montana Wo 2008 2008 2008 2008 Marsh Tit Poecile palustris WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A 2006 2004 2007 1993 Wood Lark Lullula arborea A 2007 2008 2008 2004 Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris A 1994 2008 2002 2006 Sand Martin Riparia riparia 2008 2008 2008 2008 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 2008 2008 2008 2008 House Martin Delichon urbicum 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica A 2004 2001 2006 0 Cetti’s Warbler Cettia cetti Wo,St,WM 2008 2008 2008 2001 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis A 0 0 1993 0 Pallas’s Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus A 2001 1987 1970 0 Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus A 1996 2003 2008 2008 Hume’s Warbler Phylloscopus humei BBRC 0 0 1994 0 Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus BBRC 0 0 0 1996 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wa 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 2008 2008 2008 2008 Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. tristis A 2007 2006 2008 1994 Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. abietinus A 2005 2008 2005 1991 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 2008 2008 2008 2008 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 2008 2008 2008 2008 Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria A 1979 0 0 0 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata A 1914 2005 2008 2008 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia 2008 2008 2008 2008 River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis BBRC 0 0 1996 0

251 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides A 2004 1999 1977 0 Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina A 1997 1942 1993 0 Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta A 2000 0 1996 0 Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola A 2005 1983 0 0 Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris A 2001 2005 1996 1982 Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus BBRC 2005 0 2007 0 Waxwing Bombycilla garrulusA 2008 2008 2008 2008 Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea 2008 2008 2008 2008 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 2008 2008 2008 2008 Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris 2008 2008 2008 2008 Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus A 2001 2005 2002 2004 Dipper Cinclus cinclus Wa, WM 1991 2008 2008 2006 Black-bellied Dipper Cinclus cinclus cinclus A 1996 0 0 0 White’s Thrush Zoothera dauma BBRC 1895 0 0 0 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Wa 2008 2008 2008 2008 Blackbird Turdus merula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Dusky Thrush Turdus naumanni BBRC 0 1979 0 0 Dark-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis BBRC 0 1996 1978 0 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2008 2008 2008 2008 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2008 2008 2008 2008 Redwing Turdus iliacus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 2008 2008 2008 2008 Robin Erithacus rubecula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Wa, St, WM 2008 2008 1988 1979 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A 1995 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2008 2008 2008 2008 Stonechat Saxicola torquata 2008 2008 2008 2008 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 2008 2008 2008 2008 Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe o. leucorhoa A 2008 2008 2008 2007 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva A 2008 0 0 0 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Wa 2008 2008 2008 2008 Dunnock Prunella modularis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris BBRC nk 0 0 0 House Sparrow Passer domesticus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 2008 2008 2008 2008 Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava A 2008 2006 2008 2006 Spanish Wagtail Motacilla f. iberiae A 0 1982 1993 0 Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla f. thunbergi A 0 0 0 1996 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola BBRC 1997 0 0 0 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 2008 2008 2008 2008 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba 2008 2008 2008 2008 White Wagtail Motacilla a. alba All (autumn) 2008 2008 2008 2008 Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi A 2001 2007 2002 1994 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus A 1994 0 0 0 Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus WM 2008 2008 2008 2007 Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus p. littoralis A 2007 2008 2008 2006 Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta A 2008 2008 2008 2005 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2008 2008 2008 2008 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 2008 2008 2008 2008

252 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid European Serin Serinus serinus A 2002 1981 2001 0 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris 2008 2008 2008 2008 Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 2008 2008 2008 2008 Siskin Carduelis spinus 2008 2008 2008 2008 Linnet Carduelis cannabina 2008 2008 2008 2008 Twite Carduelis flavirostris A 2006 2002 2006 2003 Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea A 2008 2008 2008 2008 Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni A 0 2002 1996 0 Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera BBRC 0 1838 1980 0 Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus A 2003 0 0 0 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 2008 2008 2008 2008 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes St, Wa, WM 2008 2008 2008 2008 Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis A 2008 2008 2008 1997 Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus A 1981 2007 2008 2005 Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos BBRC 0 2005 0 0 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2008 2008 2008 2008 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 2008 2008 2008 2008 Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala BBRC 2004 0 0 0 Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra 2008 2008 2008 2008 Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula BBRC 0 0 0 1968

Species in Appendix 1 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Great White Pelican Pelicanus onocrotalus A 1975 2001 0 0 Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber A 0 1968 1988 1968 Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus A 1991 0 2007 2005 Snow Goose Anser caerulescens A 2008 2003 2006 2003 Ross’s Goose Anser rossii A 2004 1999 2006 1999 Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii A 2007 2000 2008 2005 Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis A 1973 2007 2007 0 Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea A 2006 2007 2007 2008 Falcated Duck Anas falcata A 2005 0 2008 0 Baikal Teal Anas formosa A 2005 0 0 0 Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostrisA 2008 0 1993 2001 Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus A 2008 0 0 0 White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala A 0 0 2003 0 Saker Falco cherrug A 2008 0 2002 0 Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus A 2007 2006 2006 1985 Lady Amherst’s Pheasant Chrysolophus amherstiae A 2008 2002 0 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 2006 0 0 0 Red-headed Bunting Emberiza bruniceps A 1976 0 1977 0 Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea A 2006 0 0 0

Grand Total Region 342 County 307 300 313 271 Total in 2008 Region 235 County 210 205 220 178 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.

253 Gazetteer

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

Warwickshire Abbey Fields SP2872 Bubbenhall SP3672 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Bunkers Hill Wood SP4869 Earlswood Moathouse Admington SP2046 Burton Dassett SP3951 NR SP1173 Alcester SP0857 Burton Hastings SP4189 Eathorpe SP3969 Alcester Heath SP0659 Butlers End SP2384 Edge Hill SP3747 Alderminster SP2348 Edstone SP1761 Alvecote Pools SK2504 Calcutt SP4664 Ennister Wood SP0754 Alvecote Wood and Caldecote SP3494 Ettington SP2649 Robey’s Lane SK2403 Camp Hill SP3393 Exhall (near Bidford) SP1055 Ansty Park SP4081 Campion Hills SP3366 Exhall (near Coventry) SP3485 Arbury Park SP3389 Cathiron SP4778 Arley SP2890 Cawston Woods SP4772 Far Longdon SP2240 Arley Wood SP2790 Chadshunt SP3452 Farnborough SP4349 Arrow SP0856 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Farnborough Hill SP4449 Ashlawn Cutting NR SP5172 Charlecote GP SP2657 Farnborough Park SP4249 Ashorne Hill SP3058 Charlecote Park SP2656 Fenny Compton SP4152 Aston Cantlow SP1359 Chessetts Wood SP1973 Fenny Compton Hills SP4051 Atherstone SP3097 Chesterton Pools SP3558 Fenny Compton – Attleborough Fields SP3890 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Oxford Canal SP4352 Avon Dassett SP4149 Church Lawford SP4476 Fillongley SP2887 Churchover SP5180 Fisher’s Mill Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Cliff SP2198 GP/Meadow SP2099 Baddesley Common SP2797 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Flecknoe SP5163 Baginton SP3474 Clifton-upon-Dunsmore SP5376 Frankton SP4270 Barford SP2760 Clowes Wood SP0973 Frog Hall SP4173 Baxterley SP2797 Coldcomfort Farm SP0757 Fulbrook SP2560 Bearley SP1760 Coleshill SP2089 Fulready SP2846 Bearley Bushes SP1860 Coleshill GP SP2090 Furnace End SP2491 Beausale SP2470 Coleshill STW SP1991 Bedworth SP3686 Combrook SP3051 Gaydon SP3654 Bedworth Nook SP3486 Compton Verney SP3152 Gaydon Tip SP3655 Bentley Woods SP2895 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Goldicote SP2451 Bermuda SP3589 Coombe Fields SP4081 Grandborough SP4966 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Copt Green SP1769 Great Alne SP1159 Bilton SP4873 Corley SP2985 Grendon SP2799 Binton SP1454 Corley Ash SP2986 Griff SP3588 Birchley Heath SP2894 Corley Services SP3086 Guy’s Cliffe SP2966 Birchmoor SK2501 Coton Pools SP2194 Birdingbury SP4368 Crackley Wood SP2874 Halford SP2645 Bishop’s Hill SP3958 Crimscote SP2347 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Bishop’s Itchington SP3857 Cryfield SP2975 Hampton Wood SP2559 Bishop’s Tachbrook SP3161 Cubbington SP3468 Hams Hall SP2091 Blythe Mill SP2190 Curdworth SP1793 Harbury SP3759 Bourton-on-Dunsmore SP4370 Harbury Spoilbank NR SP3859 Bowshot Wood SP3053 Daniel’s Wood SP2485 Hartshill SP3293 Brailes SP3139 Darlingscott SP2342 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Bramcote Hall SK2704 DMC Kineton SP3651 Hartshill STW SP3395 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Dordon SK2600 Haseley SP2368 Brandon village SP4076 Dosthill Lake SP2098 Haseley Knob SP2371 Brandon Wood SP3976 Draycote Water SP4669 Hatton SP2367 Bridgetown Fields SP2153 Dunchurch SP4871 Haunch Lane Flood SP2094 Broadwell SP4565 Dunnington SP0653 Hawkesbury SP3684 Broom SP0953 Dunnington Court SP0753 Heathcote SP3063 Brownsover SP5176 Dunsmore Heath SP4372 Henley-in-Arden SP1465 Bruton SP2046 Dunton SP1893 Henley GC SP1466

254 Hill SP4567 Moreton Morrell SP3155 Sherbourne SP2661 Hillborough SP1251 Morton Bagot SP1064 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Hillmorton SP5373 Napton – Dog Lane Shrewley SP2167 Hoar Park Wood SP2693 Fishery SP4760 Shuckburgh Hills & Hodnell Pool SP4256 Napton Fields SP4461 Park SP4961 SP2472 Napton Hill SP4561 Shustoke Res SP2291 Hunningham SP3768 Napton Res SP4662 Snitterfield SP2159 New Fallings Coppice SP1074 Snitterfield Bushes SP1960 Ilmington SP2143 New Waters SP2963 Somers, The SP2282 Ilmington Downs SP1942 Newbold Comyn SP3465 Southam SP4161 Itchington Holt SP3755 Newbold-on-Stour SP2446 Spernall SP0862 Newton SP5378 Spernall Park SP1062 Judkins Quarry SP3493 North Warwickshire GC SP2285 Stockingford SP3391 Northend SP3952 Stockton SP4365 Kenilworth SP2971 Norton Lindsey SP2263 Stonebridge SP2182 Keresley CP SP3384 Nuneaton SP3691 Stoneleigh SP3372 Keresley Newlands SP3284 Nuneaton Common SP3292 Stoneton SP4654 Kineton SP3351 Stratford Heath SP2253 Kingley Pool SP0854 Oakley Wood SP3059 Stratford Racecourse SP1953 Kingsbury SP2196 Offchurch SP3565 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Kingsbury Tip SP2198 Offchurch Bury SP3466 Stretton-on-Dunsmore SP4072 Kingsbury Water Park SP2097 Old Arley SP2890 Stretton-on-Fosse SP2238 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Oldberrow SP1166 Studley SP0763 Kinwarton SP1058 Over Whitacre SP2590 Studley Castle SP0864 Kites Hardwick SP4668 Oversley Green SP0956 Studley STW SP0862 Knightcote SP4055 Oversley Wood SP1056 Sweet Knowle SP2048 Oxhill SP3145 Ladbroke SP4158 Terry’s Green SP1073 Ladywalk SP2191 Packington Park SP2283 Thickthorn Wood SP3070 SP1671 Packwood SP1772 Thurlaston SP4671 Lawford Heath Tip/GP SP4473 Pailton SP4781 Toft Farm Lakes SP4868 Lea Marston Pools SP2093 Pillerton Hersey SP3048 Tomlow SP4563 Leamington Hastings SP4467 Pillerton Priors SP2947 Tredington SP2543 Leamington Spa SP3165 Polesworth SK2602 Tysoe SP3444 Lighthorne Pools SP3356 Poolfields SP3253 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Preston Bagot SP1765 Ufton Fields SP3861 Lighthorne STW SP3256 Preston-on-Stour SP2049 Ufton Hill/Tip SP3961 Lillington SP3367 Princethorpe SP4070 Umberslade SP1371 Little Packington SP2184 Print Wood SP3864 Upper Kingston SP3556 Long Compton SP2832 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Upper Radbourn SP4458 Long Itchington SP4165 Priors Marston SP4957 Upper Shuckburgh SP4961 Long Itchington Quarry SP4163 Purley Park/Quarry SP3096 Upton Park SP3645 Long Lawford SP4776 Long Marston SP1548 Radford Semele SP3464 Walton Hall SP2852 Long Marston Camp SP1647 Radway SP3748 Wappenbury SP3769 Longbridge SP2662 Ragley Park SP0755 Wappenbury Wood SP3770 Longbridge STW SP2763 Ratley SP3847 Warmington SP4147 Lower Radbourn SP4457 Red Hill SP1356 Warwick SP2864 Lower Shuckburgh SP4862 Rookery Hall SP4374 Warwick Castle Park SP2863 Rowington SP2069 Warwick Racecourse SP2764 Mancetter SP3296 Rugby SP5175 Wasperton SP2658 Mancetter Quarry SP3095 Rugby Cement Works SP4875 Water Orton GP SP1891 Marlcliff SP0950 Rugby Radio Station SP5574 Watergall SP4255 Marton SP4068 Ryton-on-Dunsmore SP3874 Weddington SP3693 Maxstoke SP2386 Ryton Pools CP SP3772 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Mays Wood SP1464 Ryton Wood SP3872 Wellesbourne SP2755 Meon Hill SP1745 Wellesbourne Airfield SP2655 Merevale Park SP2997 Salford Priors SP0751 Wellesbourne Wood SP2653 Middleton SP1798 Salford Priors GP SP0752 Weston-on-Avon SP1650 Middleton Hall SP1998 Sambourne SP0561 Whatcote SP3044 Milcote SP1752 Sawbridge SP5065 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Milcote STW SP1852 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Whitacre Heath NR SP2092 Monwode Lea SP2691 Shelfield Green SP1261 Whitacre Waterworks SP2191

255 Whitnash SP3263 Wixford SP0854 Wootton Pool SP1563 Whittleford Park SP3291 Wolfhamcote SP5265 Wootton Wawen SP1563 Wiggins Hill SP1793 Wolston SP4175 Wootton Wawen STW SP1462 Willey SP4984 Wolverton SP2062 Wormleighton SP4454 Willington SP2639 Wolvey SP4387 Wormleighton Willoughby SP5167 Wolvey Pools SP4287 Reservoir SP4451 Wilmcote SP1657 Woodloes Farm SP2767 Wishaw SP1794 Woolscott SP4968 Yarningale Common SP1865 Worcestershire Ab Lench SP0151 Berrow Hill () SO7458 Broadway Tower SP1035 Abberley Hill SO7566 Berrow Hill () SO7933 Broadway SP0937 Abberley SO7567 SP0977 Brockamin SO7653 Abberton SO9953 Besford SO9144 Brockhill Dyke SO7263 Abbots Morton SP0355 Bevere Lock SO8359 Brockhill Farm SP0169 Alcot Farm SP0573 Bewdley SO7875 Brockhill Fishing Pools SP0269 Pound SO7452 Bibbeys Hollow SO9682 Bromsgrove SO9570 Alfrick SO7453 Bickley SO6371 Broome SO9078 Alvechurch SP0272 Birch Berrow SO7464 Brotheridge Green SO8241 Ankerdine Hill SO7356 Birch Coppice SO8081 Broughton Green SO9561 Areley Kings SO8070 Birch Wood SO8081 Broughton Hackett SO9254 Arley Wood SO8082 Birchen Coppice SO8073 Brownheath Common SO8960 Arley SO7680 Birlingham SO9343 Burlish Top SO8072 Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 SO8035 Burnt Wood SO7673 Arrow Valley North SP0568 Bishampton Bank SP0049 Bushley Green SO8634 Arrow Valley Park SP0665 Bishampton Vale GC SP0050 Bushley SO8734 Arrow Valley South SP0666 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Busk Coppice SO6965 Ashfield SO7652 Bishampton SO9951 Butlers Hill Wood SP0269 Ashmoor Common SO8446 Bissell Wood SO8677 Ashton-under-Hill SO9938 Bittell Mill SP0157 Calcot Hill SO9478 Ashton Wood SO9939 Bittell SP0174 Caldewell Mill SO9148 Astley Burf SO8167 Blackpole SO8657 Caldewell Pool SO9148 Astley SO7687 Blackstone Rock SO7974 Callow End SO8349 Aston Mill SO9434 Blackstone SO7974 Callow Hill SO7473 Aston Somerville SP0438 Blackwell SO9872 Captains Pool SO8474 Astwood Bank SP0462 Blakedown SO8878 Carey’s Brook SO7950 Atch Lench SP0350 SO8381 Carrant Brook SO9134 Axborough SO8579 Bockleton SO5862 Castle Hill Wood SO8181 Aytons Heath SO6963 Bodenham Arboretum SO8081 Castlemorton Common SO7839 Boraston SO6170 Castlemorton SO7937 Badgers Hill SP0048 Bordesley SP0469 Catshill SO9573 Badsey SP0743 Bow Wood SO9355 Caunsall SO8581 Bank Street SO6362 Bradley Green SO9861 Chadbury SP0246 Banks Green SO9967 Brakemill Plantation SO8980 Chaddesley Corbett SO8873 Barbourne SO8457 Brakemill Pool SO8979 Chaddesley Wood SO9173 SO7845 Bransford Bridge SO8053 Chapter Meadows SO8454 Barnett Brook SO8876 Bransford Court SO8152 Charlton SP0145 Barnt Green SP0073 Bransford SO7852 Chase End Hill SO7635 Battenhall SO8653 Bredicot SO9054 Chase End Wood SO9073 SO8741 Bredon Field Farm SO9038 Chat Valley SO7746 SO6973 Bredon Hill SO9139 Chateau Impney SO9164 Beacon Wood SO9875 Bredon SO9136 Chawson SO8862 Beckford Lakes SO9836 Bredon’s Norton SO9339 Childswickham SP0738 Beckford SO9735 Bredons Hardwick SO9135 Church Hill Wood SO9154 Bednall Brook SO5767 Bretforton SP0943 Church Hill SP0668 Belbroughton SO9177 Bricklehampton SO9842 Church Lench Pools SP0250 Bell End SO9377 British Camp Reservoir SO7639 Church Lench SP0251 Bells Castle SO9538 British Camp SO7640 Churchill SO8879 Bengeworth SP0443 Broad Green SO7756 Claines SO8558 Beoley SP0669 Broad Heath SO8156 Cleeve Hill SP0748 Berkley SO8857 SO7656 Cleeve Prior SP0849 Berwick Brook SO9442 Broadway Pits SP0837 Clent Hills SO9379 SO7458 Broadway Hill SP1136 Clevelode SO8346

256 Cliffey Wood SO8444 Dunhampstead SO9160 SO8145 Clifton Hill SO7261 Dunley SO7869 Guildings Coppice SO7779 Clifton Pits SO8445 Gullet, The SO7638 Clifton-on-Severn SO8446 Eardiston SO6968 Gwen Finch Wetland SO9341 Clifton-on-Teme SO7161 Earls Croome SO8742 SO7171 East Valley SO7645 Habberley Estate SO8176 Cobblers Coppice SO9269 Eastham Bridge SO6568 Habberley Valley SO8077 Cobblers Corner SO7756 Eastham SO6568 Hadley STW SO8564 Cofton Hackett SP0075 Eckington Bridge SO9242 Hadley SO8663 Cofton Hall SP0175 Eckington Meadow SO9242 Hadzor SO9162 Cofton Reservoir SP0075 Eckington SO9241 Hagley SO9180 Cofton Richards Farm SP0175 Eldersfield SO8031 Hallow SO8258 Cofton Richards SP0175 Ell Wood SO9679 Ham Bridge SO7361 Coldridge Wood SO8082 Elmbridge SO8967 Ham Wood SO7359 Coles Green SO7651 Elmley Castle SO9841 Hampton SP0243 Colliers Knapp SP1035 Elmley Lovett Hanbury Park SO8353 Collins Green SO7457 Trading Estate SO8769 Hanbury Wharf SO9263 Conderton SO9637 Endon Hill SO9644 Hanbury SO9663 Coneybury Wood SO8957 Evesham Abbey SP0343 Handgate Farm SP0249 SO8480 Evesham SP0343 Hangman’s Hill SO7639 Corn Brook SO6169 Eymore Wood SO7779 SO8342 SO7855 SO6565 Cowsden SO9453 Fairy Glen SO8681 Hanley Dingle SO6866 Crab Mill Lane SP0677 Far Forest SO7275 Hanley Swan SO8142 Crabbs Cross SP0464 Farmbank Plantation SO8765 Happy Valley SO7645 Crews Hill Wood SO7353 Feckenham Wylde Harpley SO6861 Croome Court SO8844 Moor SP0160 Hartlebury Brick Pit SO8571 Croome Landscape Feckenham SP0061 Hartlebury Common SO8270 Park SO8844 Fetterlock Coppice SO7563 Hartlebury Tip SO8371 Croome Perry Wood SO9046 Finstall SO9870 Hartlebury SO8470 Croome SO8744 Fish Hill SP1137 Harvington (Evesham) SP0548 Cropthorne SO9844 Fladbury Church SO9946 Harvington (K’minster) SO8774 Crossway Green SO8468 Fladbury SO9946 Harvington SP0549 Crowle Green SO9256 Flashers Wood SO8146 Hawford Wood SO8560 Crowle SO9256 Flock Mill Pool SO8377 Hawford SO8460 Crutch Farm SO9066 Flyford Flavell SO9854 Hawksbatch SO7677 Cutnell Green SO8868 Footrid SO6870 Haws Hill Wood SO6065 Forhill SP0575 Haws Hill SO6065 Dagnell End Lane SP0469 Foxlydiate Wood SP0267 Hayley Dingle SO7654 Danemoor SO7941 Foxmere Court SO9355 Hazdor SO9162 Darbys Green SO7456 Frankley Hill SO9879 Hewell Grange SP0169 Dean Brook SO9260 Frankley Res. SP0080 Hewell Park SP0069 Deaths Dingle SO6667 Fred Dale Reserve SO7776 High Green SO8645 Deerfold Wood SO9147 SO6969 Highwood SO6566 Defford SO9143 Fulhams, The SO6265 Highstank Pool SO8965 Defford airfield SO8944 Furnace Mill Pool SO7276 SO8840 Devils Spittleful SO8074 Hill End SO8238 Diglis SO8453 Gadbury Bank SO7931 Hill Farm, Droitwich SO5666 Dodford SO9373 Gallows Green SO9362 Hill Furze SP0048 Dog Hanging Coppice SO7374 Gaudywood Park SO6771 SO7865 Dormston SO9857 Gheluvelt Park SO8456 Hillside SO7561 Doverdale SO8566 Gladder Brook SO7772 Himbleton SO9458 Dowery Dell SO9780 Goosehill Wood SO9360 Hindlip Pool SO8858 Dowles Brook SO7776 Gorcott Hill SP0968 Hindlip SO8758 Drakes Broughton SO9248 Grafton Church SO9655 Hinton Cross SP0340 Drayton SO9076 Grafton Flyval SO9655 Hinton-on-the-Green SP0240 SO8560 Grafton Lane SO9469 Hipton Hill SP0348 Droitwich Sewage Grafton Wood SO9756 Hitterhill Coppice SO7675 Works SO8661 Great Comberton SO9542 Hollybed Common SO7737 Droitwich Spa SO8963 Great Farley Wood SO9578 Hollybush Quarry SO7636 Duckswich SO8339 SO7566 Hollybush SO7636 Ducton Coppice SO7659 Grimley Windsurfing Pit SO8261 Hollywood SP0877 Dumbleton Dingle SO7069 Grimley SO8360 Holt Fishing Pools SO8262

257 Holt Fleet SO8263 Larford SO8169 SO6971 Holt Heath SO8163 Laughern Brook SO8158 Marlbrook SO6670 Holt SO8262 Laughern Hill SO7758 Marlcliff SP0950 Honeybourne SP1143 Laughern Pools SO7758 Marsh Common SO8942 Hoobrook SO8374 Lea End Lane SP0475 Martin Hussingtree SO8859 Hoo Farm Ind.Est. SO8373 Leapgate, The SO8372 Martley SO7559 Hopwood SP0375 Leigh Brook SO7652 Menith Wood SO7069 Hornhill Wood SO9558 Leigh Sinton SO7750 SO7637 Horsham SO7357 Leigh SO7853 Mill Brook SO6972 Horsley Hills SO8080 Lellow Coppice SO6467 Mill Pond SO7737 Huddington SO9457 Lem Brook SO7275 Monk Wood SO8060 Hunnington SO9681 Lenches Crossroads SP0249 Monkwood Green SO8060 Hunthouse Wood SO7070 Lenchford SO8163 Moorhouse Farm SO8449 Hunthouse SO7070 Lenchwick SP0347 Mount Segg SO8675 Huntingdrop Common SO9262 Libbery Pools SO9554 Mythe Bridge SO8833 Huntsbridge SO7738 Libbery SO9555 Hurcott Wood SO8577 Lickey Hills SO9975 Nafford SO9441 Hurst Coppice SO7579 Lickmoor Coppice SO8846 Narrow Wood SO8947 Lickmoor Wetland SO8845 Naunton Beauchamp SO9652 Illey SO9881 Lilley Green SP0672 Netherton SO9941 Inkberrow SP0157 Lineholt SO8266 New Mill Bridge SO7262 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Lincomb SO8268 New End SO0560 Ipsley Mill Pool SP0666 Lindridge SO6769 New Parks SO7475 Island Coppice SO6364 Lion Wood SP0871 New Pool SO7843 Island Pool SO8580 Little Comberton SO9643 New Wood SO7564 Ismere SO8679 Little Hopehouse SO6469 Iverley SO8880 Coppice SO7658 Nib Green SO7579 SO7863 Nimmings Wood SO9380 Kedges Hill SO7859 Lodge Pool SP0466 Nipple Coppice SO7456 Kemerton Village Pool SO9436 Long Bank SO7674 Norchard SO8468 Kemerton SO9437 Long Coppice SO7550 North Covert SO9140 Kempsey Common SO8748 Long Covert SO8443 North Hill SO7646 Kempsey Lower Ham SO8449 Long Saw Croft SO9779 North Littleton SP0847 Kempsey Sewage Longdon Marsh SO8235 North Quarry SO7646 Works SO8448 Longdon SO8336 North Wood SO7877 Kempsey Upper Ham SO8549 Longley Green SO7350 Norgrove Court SP0065 Kempsey SO8549 Lower Berrington SO5767 Northwick Marsh SO8357 Kenswick SO7958 Lower Bittell Reservoir SP0174 Norton Barracks SO8652 Kersoe SO9939 Lower Broadheath SO8157 Norton Pool SP0448 Kerswell Green SO8646 Lower Cowsden SO9352 Norton, Worcester SO8751 Kidderminster SO8376 Lower Crundeland Norton SP0447 Kingsford SO8281 Farm SO7266 Nunnery Wood SO8754 Kingswood Common SO7460 Lower End Farm SO9141 Kington SO9955 Lower Habberley SO8077 Oakenshaw SP0464 Kinnersley SO8743 Lower Haresbrook SO5767 Oakenshaw Wood SP0464 Kinsham Lake SO9336 Lower Moor SO9847 Oakley Pool SO8960 Kinsham SO9335 Lower Park SP0470 Ockeridge Wood SO7962 Knapp, The SO7451 Lower Park Farm Pools SP0470 Oddingley SO9159 Knighton Common SO6270 Lower Rochford SO6268 Offenham SP0546 Knighton-on-Teme SO6370 SO6960 Offerton SO8958 Knightsford Bridge SO7356 Lower Smite Farm SO8858 Offerton Lane SO8857 Knightwick SO7355 Lower Strensham SO9040 Offmore Farm SO8476 Knowles Coppice SO7676 Lower Westmancote SO9337 Old Hills Common SO8248 Knowles Mill SO7576 Lynall’s Coppice SO7375 Old Road South SO8448 Kyre Brook SO6264 Old Storridge SO7451 Kyre Pool SO6364 Madeley Heath SO9577 Old Yarr SP0162 Kyre SO6263 SO8047 Old Yew Hill Wood SP0252 Kyrewood SO6067 Majors Green SP1077 Oldington Beet Factory SO8273 Malvern Hills SO7640 Oldington SO8274 Ladywood STW SO8661 Malvern Link SO7847 Ombersley Golf Langdale Wood Pool SO7943 Malvern STW SO7944 Course SO8463 Langdale Wood SO7943 Malvern Wells SO7742 Ombersley SO8463 Larford Pool SO8169 Malvern SO7745 Overbury SO9537

258 Overbury Park SO9537 Roundhill Wood SO9281 Stocking Pool Oxford SO6564 Rous Lench SP0153 Plantation SO6870 Rubery SO9877 Stockton-on-Teme SO7167 Parkatt Wood SO7979 SO8253 Stoke Bliss SO6562 Pebworth SP1346 Ryall Pits SO8639 Stoke Hill SO6663 Peck Wood SP0371 Ryall SO8640 Stoke Prior SO9467 Pendock SO7832 Ryestreet Meadows SO7835 Stoke Wharf SO9567 Pennyfields SO9780 Stoke Works SO9466 Penny Hill SO7561 Sale Green SO9358 Stone Manor SO8674 Pensax Wood SO7268 Salford Coppice SP0451 Stonehall Common SO8849 Pensax SO7268 Sallings Common SO6061 Stonyford SO6465 Pensham SO9544 Salwarpe SO8761 Stoulton SO9049 Peopleton SO9350 Sapey Bridge SO7255 Stour Hill SO8373 Pepper Wood SO9374 Sapey Brook SO6961 Stourport SO8171 Perdiswell SO8557 Saxons Lode SO8638 Stourvale Marsh SO8378 Perry Wood SO8654 Seckley Wood SO7678 Stourvale Marsh SO8277 Perseverance Hill SO7644 Sedgeberrow SP0238 Strensham Church SO9140 Pershore SO9445 Severn Stoke SO8544 Strensham Lagoons SO9139 Pinvin SO9549 Shadybank Common SO7639 Strensham Lock SO9140 Pipers Hill Common SO9565 Shakenhurst Brook SO6773 Strensham Mill SO9140 Pipers Hill SO9565 Wood SO7980 Strensham STW SO9139 Pirton Pool SO8747 Shatterford SO7981 Strensham SO9140 Pirton SO8847 Shavers End SO7667 Suckley SO7251 Pitmaston Road SO8453 Shelfheld SO7575 Suckley Hills SO7351 Pixham Ferry Lane SO8448 SO7363 Suckley Knowl SO7153 Podmoor SO8672 Shelsley Kings SO7265 Sugar Loaf Hill SO7645 Podmore Pool SO8478 SO7263 Summerfield SO8373 Porters Mill SO8660 Shenstone SO8673 Sutton Farm House SO6264 Pound Green Common SO7578 Sheriffs Lench SP0249 Sutton Pool SO6364 Powick Bridge SO8352 Shernal Green SO9161 Sweet Green SO6462 Powick Ham SO8352 Shoots Hill Wood SO9257 Swinyard Hill SO7638 Powick SO8351 Shortwood Roughs SP0270 Puckrup SO8736 Shrawley Wood SO8066 Table Hill SO7846 Pudford Hill SO7461 Shrawley SO8064 Tanners Hill SO7775 Pugstone SO8277 Sidemoor SO9571 Tanwood SO9074 Pulley Farm SO8960 Sinton Green SO8160 Tardebigge Reservoir SO9868 Pulley SO8960 Slade Wood SP0253 Tardebigge SO9868 Puxton Marsh SO8277 Sling Common SO9477 Tenbury Wells SO5968 Smite SO8958 The Dingle SO7645 Queenhill SO8536 Smith End Green SO7752 The Rose Cottage SP0669 Queenhill Rough SO8636 Snuffmill Pool SO7874 Thicknall SO9079 South Littleton SP0746 Thorngrove SO8260 Rabbit Wood SO9557 Southwood Common SO7462 Three Counties Ramsden SO9246 Southcrest Lodge SP0366 Showground SO7842 Randan Wood SO9272 Southcrest SP0366 Throckmorton Airfield SO9649 Ravenshill Green SO7454 Spennells Estate SO8474 Throckmorton Tip SO9748 Ravenshill Wood SO7453 Spetchley SO8953 Throckmorton SO9748 Ravenshill Wood Pool SO7353 Spetchley Park Lake SO8953 Tibberton SO9057 Rea, River SO6469 Spring Grove SO8075 Tiddesley Wood SO9245 Red Hall SO9078 Spring Lane Ind. Estate SO7947 Tilesford SO9650 Redditch SP0467 St Annes Well SO7745 Timberdine Allotment SO8553 Redmarley SO7566 St Johns SO8354 Timberhonger SO9170 Redstone Marsh SO8070 St Kenelms Farm SO9480 Tinkers Cross SO7856 Redstone Rock SO8169 St Peters SO8652 Tolladine SO8757 Rhydd Covert SO8075 Stagborough Hill SO7872 Tompkinson’s Carpet Rhydd SO8345 Standbatches, The SO7164 Factory SO8377 Ribbesford Wood SO7872 Stanford Bridge SO7165 Top Barn Farm Lake SO8261 Ribbesford SO7873 Stanford Pool SO7065 Torton SO8472 Ripple Marsh SO8637 Stanford-on-Teme SO7065 Towns End SO9856 Ripple SO8738 Stanford-on-Teme SO7065 Trapnell Brook SO6471 Rock Coppice SO7673 Stanley Wood SO9257 Trench Wood SO9258 Romers Wood SO6063 Start’s Green SO8083 Trimpley Res. SO7778 Romsley SO9679 Stock Wood SO9958 Trimpley SO7778

259 Tutnall SO9970 Warndon Business Windmill Hill SP0748 Twiland Wood SO9780 Park SO8857 Winnall Stream SO8167 Twyford Bank SO0446 Warndon SO8856 Wissetts Wood SO6772 Twyning Green SO9036 Waseley Hills SO9777 Withy Wells Farm SO8955 Wassell Grove Pools SO9382 Witley Court SO7664 Uckinghall SO8638 Wassell Wood SO7977 Wolverley SO8279 Uffmoor Wood SO9581 Wast Hill SP0376 Wood Norton SP0147 Uphampton SO8364 Weatheroak Hill SP0574 Wood Norton Wetland SP0147 Upper Bittell Reservoir SP0275 Web Heath SP0166 Woodbury Hill SO7464 Upper Holling SO7558 Weethley Wood SP0455 Woodbury SO7564 Upper Howsen SO7954 Welland SO7940 Woodrow SO8875 Upper Kites Wood SO9757 West Hagley SO9080 Woodcote Green SO9172 Upper Lode SO8833 West Midlands Woolmere Green SO9662 Upper Sandlin SO7551 Safari Park SO8075 Worcester & Upper Strensham Pool SO8939 Westmancote SO9337 Birmingham Canal SO9058 Upper Strensham SO9039 Westminster Pool SO9980 Worcester Canal SO9058 Upper Wick SO8253 Westwood Pool SO8763 Worcester Cathedral SO8554 Upton Snodsbury SO9454 Whitehouse Farm SO8679 Worcester SO8454 Upton Warren SO9367 White Ladies Aston SO9252 Worcestershire Beacon SO7645 Upton-upon-Severn Whittington SO8752 Wych Cutting SO7743 South Ham SO8539 SO7860 Wychbold SO9265 Upton-upon-Severn SO8540 Wick SO9645 Wychbury Hill SO9181 Wickhamford SP0641 Wyche Quarry SO7744 Wadborough SO9047 Wilden Lagoons SO8374 Wyre Forest SO7475 Walsgrove Hill SO7456 Wilden Marsh SO8273 Wyre Piddle SO9647 Walton Hill SO9479 Wilden SO8272 Wythall SP0775 Wannerton SO9678 Wildmoor Quarry SO9576 Wants Green SO7657 Wildmoor Tip SO9576 Yarhampton SO7767 Yeald Wood SP0152

Staffordshire Acreswood Fields SJ8751 Beffcote SJ8019 Broad Meadow SK1904 Acton SJ8241 Belvide Reservoir SJ8610 Brookleys Lake SK0943 Acton Trussell SJ9318 Berry Hill SJ9046 Broom Hill SJ7519 Agardsley Park SK1327 Betley SJ7549 Brown Edge SJ9053 Alrewas SK1614 Biddulph Grange SJ8959 Brown Lees SJ8755 Alton SK0742 Biddulph Moor SJ9058 Brund SK1061 Anslow Common SK2024 Biddulph Valley SJ8757 Burston SJ9330 Aqualate SJ7720 Bignall End SJ8051 Burton-on-Trent SK2523 Aston-by-Stone SJ9131 Bishops Wood SJ7431 Bury Bank SJ8835 Astonfield Balancing Black Bank SJ8147 Butterton SJ8242 Lakes SJ9224 Blackbrook Bird World SK0551 Butterton Moor SK0556 Blackshaw Moor SK0059 Byrkley Park SK1623 Back Forest SJ9865 Blake Hall Fishery SJ9943 Baddeley Green SJ9051 Blithfield Reservoir SK0523 Caltonmoor SK1148 Badger Heath SO7899 Blore Pipe SJ7631 Camp Farm SJ7324 Baggeridge CP SO8992 Bloreheath SJ7134 Captain’s Barn SJ9445 Bagots Bromley SK0626 Blythe Bridge SJ9540 Carvel Wood SK1825 Baldstones SK0164 Boarsgrove SK0462 Catholme SK1915 Baldwins Gate SJ7940 Bobbington SO8090 Cauldon Low SK0847 Balterley SJ7550 Boggy Rough SJ8023 Caverswall SJ9542 Banktop Wood SK1428 Borrowpit Lake SK2004 Caverswall Cricket Club SJ9443 Barlaston SJ8938 Brackenhurst SK1422 Chasewater Reservoir SK0307 Barleighford SJ9463 Bradley-in-the-Moors SK0641 Chatcull SJ7934 Barton GP SK1916 Bradnop SK0156 Chatterley SJ8451 Barton-under-Needwood SK1818 Brancote SJ9622 Cheadle SK0142 Batchacre Hall SJ7524 Branston Water Park SK2220 Cheddleton SJ9752 Bateswood SJ7947 Bridgetown SJ9708 Chillington Lower Bathpool SJ8353 Brindley Ford SJ8755 Avenue SJ8807 Bearda SJ9664 Brindley Heath SK0014 Church Eaton SJ8417 Bearstone SJ7139 Britannia Stadium SJ8843 Clay Mills SK2627 Beech SJ8438 Broad Heath SJ8525 Clive Farm, The SO8297

260 Cloud, The SJ9063 Folly Hall SK1425 Iverley Park Farm SO8882 Coal Brook SJ7232 Ford Green NR SJ8851 Codsall SJ8703 Forest Banks SK1229 Jack Hayes SJ9249 Coldmeece SJ8531 Forton SJ7521 Jackson’s Bank SK1322 Coley Brook Marsh SJ7818 Four Ashes SJ9108 JCB North Lake SK1039 Colwich SK0121 Fradswell Heath SK0032 Jugbank SJ7535 Compact Products Pool SJ9944 Froghall SK0247 Coombes Valley SK0052 Fullmoor Wood SJ9411 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Coombesdale SJ8038 Keele University SJ8244 Copmere SJ8029 Gailey Reservoir SJ9310 Kettlebrook Lakes SK2203 Coppenhall SJ9019 Gains Brook SK0006 Key Wood SK0445 Cotes Heath SJ8335 Gayton SJ9828 King’s Standing SK1624 Coton SK1804 Gerrard’s Bromley SJ7835 Kingsley Moor SJ9946 Cotton Dell SK0545 Gib Torr SK0264 Kinver Edge SO8483 Cotton’s Wood SK0737 Gig Hall SJ9564 Knotbury SK0168 Cotwalton SJ9334 Glass Houses SJ7432 Knutton SJ8347 Cowhay NR SJ9656 Glutton Bridge SK0866 Knypersley Reservoir SJ8955 Cowley SJ8219 Gnosall Canal SJ8220 Crakemarsh Lake SK0936 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Lady Edge SK0562 Cresswell SJ9739 Gradbach SJ9965 Langley Hall Farm SO8696 Cross Hayes SK1222 Gratton SJ9356 Lapley SJ8712 Crossplains SK1624 Great Gate Pools SK0440 Lazy Hill SK0602 Croxall NR SK1814 Great Haywood SJ9922 Leek SJ9956 Croxden Quarry SK0341 Greenway Bank CP SJ8955 Little Bank Top Farm SJ9646 Cuckoo Bank SK0210 Gun Hill SJ9761 Little Ferneyford SK0661 Cudmore Fishing Pools SJ8142 Little Haywood SK0021 Curborough SK1312 Hales SJ7133 Little Onn SJ8415 Halfpenny Green SO8291 Little Stoke SJ9132 Damgate SK1253 Hall Moor SJ9355 Little Wyrley SK0105 Deep Hayes CP SJ9653 Halmer End SJ8049 Lloyd Drumble SJ7233 Derrington SJ8922 Hamps Valley SK1053 Loggerheads SJ7336 Dimmingsdale SK0543 Hanbury Park SK1725 Longsdon SJ9554 Downs Banks SJ9036 Hanchurch Woods SJ8239 Longsdon Mill Pond SJ9555 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Handsacre Flash SK0916 Lordsley GP SJ7538 Draycott in the Clay SK1429 Hansley Cross SK0542 Lower Hatton SJ8236 Drayton Bassett Pits SP2099 Harlaston SK2011 Lower Outwoods SK2224 Dunstal Hall Farm SK0725 Harpers Marsh SJ9557 Lower Tean SK0238 Dunstall SK1820 Hartley Green SJ9729 Ludburn SK0962 Dunston SJ9217 Hatherton Reservoir SJ9708 Lum Edge SK0659 Dunwood SJ9455 Hawksmoor SK0344 Hayes SK0860 Madeley SJ7745 Eccleshall SJ8329 Hazel Barrow SK0163 Madeley STW SJ7645 Ecton SK0958 Hazelstrine SJ9420 Maer SJ7938 Edingale SK2112 Heaton SJ9561 Maer Hills SJ7839 Eland Brook SK1426 Hem Heath Wood SJ8840 Malthouse Lane SJ9445 Elford GP SK1809 High Cross SK0255 Manifold Valley SK1055 Elford North Pit SK1810 Highgate Common SO8490 Marquis Drive SK0015 Ellenhall SJ8526 Highwood SK0931 Massey’s Wood SK0248 Elton Court SK1426 Hill Chorlton SJ8039 Mayfield SK1545 Enson SJ9328 Himley SO8892 Meerbrook SJ9861 Enville SO8388 Hixon Airfield SJ9927 Meir SJ9341 Essex Bridge SK0021 Hoar Cross SK1323 Meretown SJ7520 Essington Quarry Pool SJ9603 Hollinsclough SK0666 Mermaid Inn SK0360 Hollybush Lake SK1326 Merril Grove SK0464 Fair Lady Coppice SK0108 Horton SJ9357 Middle Hills SK0363 Fairy Glen SO8881 Hulme SJ9346 Middle Hulme SJ9960 Fauld SK1828 Hulme End SK1059 Milford SJ9721 Fenton SJ8944 Huntington SJ9713 Milford Bridge SJ9621 Fisherwick SK1709 Huntley Wood SK0041 Moat Hall SK1324 Five Clouds SK0062 Moneystone SK0546 Flash SK0267 Ilam SK1350 Moreton Brook SK0323 Fleet Green SK0561 Ingestre SJ9724 Morridge SK0257 Foker Grange SJ9657 Iverley SO8881 Morridge Side SK0254

261 Morridge Top SK0365 Scotch Hill SK1622 Tuters Hill SO8199 Mow Cop SJ8557 Seighford SJ8725 Musden Wood SK1151 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Upper Hanyards SJ9724 Shipley SO8296 Upper Landywood SJ9805 Narrowdale SK1257 Shirleywich SJ9825 Upper Leigh SK0136 National Memorial Shutt Green SJ8709 Upper Nobut SK0435 Arboretum SK1814 Sideway SJ8743 Upper Tean SK0139 Needwood House SK1825 Silverdale Colliery SJ8146 Upper Whittimere SO8292 Newbold Quarry SK2019 Sittles SK1712 Uttoxeter SK0833 Newstead SJ8940 Slindon SJ8231 Uttoxeter Quarry SK0935 Norton Canes SK0107 South Farley SK0643 Oakamoor SK0544 Spath SK0835 Waggersley SJ8737 Oakley Folly SJ9136 Spring Head SK0166 Walton Bridge SJ9621 Okeover Mill SK1648 Springslade Lodge SJ9716 Walton Hall SJ8528 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Stableford SJ8138 Warslow SK0858 Oliver Hill SK0267 Stafford SJ9223 Warslow Brook SK0658 Onecote SK0355 Stafford Brook SSSI SK0218 Water Eaton SJ9011 Onecote Grange SK0355 Stafford Castle SJ9022 Waterfall SK0951 Orchard Common SK0269 Stanley Pool SJ9351 Weags Barn NR SK0953 Orgreave SK1415 Stansley Wood SK0524 Wedgwood Monument SJ8251 Stepping Stones SJ9820 Weeford SK1303 Packington Moor SK1405 Stockley Park SK2025 Werrington SJ9547 Park Hall CP SJ9244 Stone SJ9034 West End SJ8744 Pasturefields SJ9825 Stourton SO8685 Weston SJ9727 Pattingham SO8298 Stowe SK1210 Weston Coyney SJ9343 Penn Common SO8994 Stramshall SK0735 Weston Jones SJ7524 Perton SO8598 Stretton SJ8811 Westport Lake SJ8550 Pethillshead SK0652 Stubwood SK0939 Wettonmill SK0955 Pretty Pigs Pool SK2405 Sturbridge SJ8430 Whitemoor Haye SK1813 Sudbury SK1531 Whitleyford SJ7423 Radford Bank SJ9320 Sugnall SJ7930 Whitmore SJ8040 Ranton Abbey SJ8323 Swainsmoor SK0261 Whitmore – Bent Lane SJ8139 Reapsmoor SK0861 Swallow Moss SK0660 Whitmore Hall SJ8141 Red Street SJ8251 Swineholes Wood SK0450 Whittington Barracks SK1506 Revidge SK0759 Swynnerton Landfill SJ8434 Whittington Heath SK1507 Rickerscote SJ9320 Whittington SF SO8783 Rifle Range SJ9917 Talke SJ8253 Wilnecote Tip SP2299 Rileyhill SK1115 Tameside NR SK2002 Wincle SJ9566 River Sow Meadows, Tamworth SK2004 Windy Harbour SK0648 Baswich SJ9422 Tatenhill SK2022 Winkhill SK0651 Roach End SJ9964 Thor’s Cave SK0955 Winnington SJ7238 Roaches SK0063 Thorswood SK1147 Winnothdale SK0240 Rodbaston SJ9211 Tittesworth Reservoir SJ9960 Wolfscote Dale SK1357 Roddige Farm SK1713 Tixall SJ9722 Wolseley Bridge SK0220 Rolleston Park SK2126 Tixall Bridge SJ9721 Wolseley Park SK0220 Round Knowl Farm SK0562 Tixall Wide SJ9722 Woodhead SJ9249 Royal Cottage SK0263 Trentabank Reservoirs SJ9617 Rudyard Lake SJ9459 Trentham Gardens Yarnfield SJ8632 Rushton Spencer SJ9362 Lake SJ8639 Yew Tree Farm SJ8043 Trescott SO8497 Yoxall Park SK1521 Sandyford SJ8636 Turn Edge SK0167

West Midlands Ackers SP0984 Babb’s Mill Lake SP1687 Bilston Cemetery SO9497 Acock’s Green SP1183 Balsall Common SP2377 Birmingham SP0686 Aldridge SK0602 Barr Beacon SP0696 Birmingham Airport SP1783 Allcott Wood SP1786 Barston SP2078 Birmingham Mainline Allesley SP2982 Bartley Reservoir SP0081 Canal SP0487 Allesley Park SP2980 Bearwood SP0286 Black Patch Park SP0388 Amblecote SO8985 Belcher’s Wood SP2883 Blackheath SO9686 Aston SP0690 Benton Green SP2678 Blythe Valley SP1375 Audnam SO8985 Berkswell SP2784 Blythe Valley CP SP1375

262 Bourne Brook SP0583 Frankley Reservoir SP0080 Mercote Mill Farm SP2280 Bournville SP0481 Meriden SP2482 Bournville Park SP0481 Goscote Valley SK0101 Meriden Gravel Pits SP2280 Bowmans Harbour SO9399 Grand Union Canal SP1974 Meriden Park Pool SP1787 Box Trees SP1473 Grapes Pool SO9497 Meriden Quarries SP2381 Bracebridge Pool SP0998 Gravelly Hill SP1090 Merritts Brook Bradmore SO8997 Great Barr SP0794 SP0178 to SP0381 Bradnock’s Marsh SP2279 Greets Green SO9891 Middle Bickenhill SP2083 Brownhills SK0306 Millburn Grange SP3076 Brueton Park SP1678 Millisons Wood SP2681 Haden Hill Park SO9585 Bumble Hole LNR SO9588 Minworth STW SP1691 Halesowen SO9783 Bunson’s Wood SP3184 Monkspath SP1476 Hall Yard Wood SP3084 Bury’s Hill SO8880 Mons Hill SO9392 Hampton Coppice SP1681 Moorcroft Wood SO9695 Hampton-in-Arden SP2181 Canley Brook SP3176 Moseley SP0783 Harborne SP0284 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Mushroom Green SO9386 Harborne NR SP0385 Castle Bromwich SP1589 Nailcote Farm SP2677 Harvest Hill SP2882 Catherine-de-Barnes SP1780 Netherton SO9488 Hawkes End Wood SP2983 Chadwick End SP2173 Netherton Hill SO9388 Hawkes Mill Wood SP2982 Chelmsley Wood SP1886 Netherton Reservoir SO9387 Hawkesbury Locks Cheswick Green SP1275 North Warks GC SP2281 Spinney SP3684 Chinn Brook SP0779 to SP0980 Norton SO8882 Hawne Park SO9585 Claregate SJ8900 Heronfield SP1875 Clay Lane SP2883 Oakham SO9589 Highgate SP0785 Clayhanger SK0304 Ocker Hill SO9793 Hobbs Hole GC SK0701 Cole Valley SP1079 Oldbury SO9989 Hockley Heath SP1572 Coombe SP4079 Olton Mere SP1381 Hollywood SP0878 Coombeswood SO9785 Hydes Road Pool SO9994 Cornets End SP2280 Park Lime Pits SP0399 Cotwall End Valley LNR SO9192 Pedmore SO9081 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Keepers Pool SP1096 Pelsall SK0203 Coventry SP3379 Keresley SP3282 Penn SO8996 Coventry Airport SP3575 Keresley Mere SP3084 Perry Barr SP0591 Cradley Heath SO9485 Ketley Quarry SO8988 Perry Park SP0692 King’s Heath SP0781 Pickford Green SP2781 Dartmouth Park SP0191 King’s Heath Park SP0681 Pikehorne Wood SP3084 Dorridge SP1574 Kingswinford SO8988 Pinkett’s Wood SP2781 Dorridge Park SP1774 Knowle SP1876 Plantsbrook SP1392 to SP1393 Druids Heath GC SK0701 Knowle Canal SP1876 Portway SO9788 Dudley SO9490 Potters Green SP3782 Dudley No.2 Canal SO9487 Ladymoor Pool SO9495 Priory Fields SP0978 Dudley Wood SO9486 Langley Hall SP1595 Priory Park SO9490 Dunstall Park SJ9000 Lapal SO9883 Leys Farm SP2882 Quinton SO9884 Eastern Green SP2880 Lightwoods Park SP0185 Edgbaston SP0584 Lindridge STW SP1596 Radleys and Sheldon Edgbaston Cricket Long Knowle SJ9401 SP1484 to SP 1686 Ground SP0684 Long Lady Wood SP2984 Rattlechain Mere SO9791 Edgbaston Pool SP0584 Longford Nature Park SP3483 Ravenshaw SP1779 Edgbaston Reservoir SP0486 Longmoor SP0995 Reedswood Park SO9999 Elkin Wood SP2883 Lutley Wedge SO9483 Riddian Bridge SP0399 Elmdon SP1783 River Cole (central) Elmdon Park SP1682 M69 J1 SP3882 SP1082 to SP1185 Malvern Park SP1578 River Cole (east) Farndale SJ9000 Marsh Lane NR SP2180 SP1185 to SP1687 Fen End SP2275 Marston Green SP1785 River Cole (south) Fens Pools SO9188 Marston Green Park SJ1785 SP1079 to SP1082 Fishley SK0004 Martineau Gardens SP0684 River Rea (Cannon Hill) Footshole SO9087 Mary Stevens Park SO8983 SP0581 to SP0684 Fort Dunlop SP1290 Melbricks Garden River Rea (south of Wychall) Foxcote SO9383 Centre SP2084 SP0177 to SP0479

263 River Tame (west) Stubbers Green SK0401 Warrens Hall LNR SO9588 SP0392 to SP0691 Sutton Park SP0996 Warstock SP0979 Robin Hood GC SP1280 Warwick University Rocket Pool SO9694 Temple Balsall SP2075 Gibbet Hill Campus SP3075 Rough Close SP2678 Tettenhall SJ8800 Wednesbury SO9895 Rough Wood SJ9800 The Leasowes SO9783 Wednesfield SJ9301 Rowley Regis SO9688 The Spinney SP1674 West Bromwich SP0091 Ryders Mere SK0304 Tile Hill Station SP2777 West Park SO9099 Tilehouse Green SP1776 West Smethwick Park SP0088 Saltwells LNR SO9387 Tipton SO9592 Westwood Heath SP2776 Saltwells Wood SO9387 Titford Pools SO9887 Whyndley Pool SP1195 Sandwell Valley SP0392 Tocil Wetlands SP3075 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Sedgley SO9293 Tudor Grange Park SP1479 Willenhall SO9799 Sedgley Beacon SO9294 Turner’s Hill SO9688 Windmill Lakes SP2179 Selly Oak SP0382 Tyseley SP1184 Windsor Fields SO8996 Sheepwash UP SO9791 Winson Green SP0488 Small Heath SP0985 University of B’ham SP0483 Wishaw SP1693 Small Heath Park SP1085 Withymoor SO9084 Smestow Valley SO8899 Victoria Park, Tipton SO9591 Wollaston SO8884 Smethwick Hall Park SP0188 Wolverhampton SO9198 Sneyd SJ9802 Wad Barn Farm SP2480 Wolverhampton Sneyd Pool SJ9802 Wall Hill SP2983 Science Park SJ9100 Solihull SP1579 Walsall SP0198 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Solihull Riding Club SP1575 Walsall Arboretum SP0199 Wordsley SO8987 Stambermill SO9084 Walsall Arboretum Wren’s Nest SO9391 Stevens Park SO9283 extension SP0298 Wychbury Hill SO9281 Stirchley SP0581 Walsall Golf Course SP0296 Stivichall SP3376 Walsgrave Hospital SP3880 York’s Wood SP168 Stourbridge SO9084 Warley Woods SP0186

Key to Contributors

The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the Classified Notes. Those also contributing the Ringing Report are mentioned under that report. 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. Here we have used a minimum of three characters. If only two initials are given then subsequent letters of the surname are added until a unique combination is achieved.

AE Abbott AEA G Armitt GArm N Baskerville NBas DJ Abbott DJA L Armstrong LAr S Baverstock SBav C Abell CAb MA Arnold MAA SC Baverstock SCBa D Ackland DAc S Arnold SAr N Bayliss NBay MJ Adkins MJA J Arrowsmith JAr N Beamsley NBe M Ahmed MAh D Arthur DAr M Bebbington MBeb C Ainsworth CAi C Arthurton CAr R Beech RBe RF Allaby RFA S Ashton SAs M Bell MBel G Allen GAl C Atkins CAtk Sally Bell SalBe K Allen KAl C Attewell CAtt Sam Bell SamBe PM Andrews PMA M Avery MAv P Betts PBe SE Andrews SEA S Avery SAv C Bignell CBi P Anthony PAn R Billingsley RBi C Appleby CAp DM Banks DMB RW Billingsley RWB GF Appleton GFA A Barker ABa K Birks KBi A Archer AAr NP Barlow NPB R Black RBl M Archer MAr S Barnett SBar AC Bletchley ACB GJ Ariss GJA M Barney MBa SC Bletchley SCBl

264 RM Blindell RMBl S Clement SCl GH Edmonds GHE G Blockley GBl GA Clements GAC A Edwards AEd S Bloomfield SBl KM Clements KMC B Edwards BEd D Bloor DBl K Clowes KCl J Edwards JEd N Bloor NBl A Cobley ACo WJ Egmont WJE W Blumsom WBl SR Cole SRC JM Elliott JME M Blythe MBl RJ Collins RJCo V Emery VEm S Bodnar SBo S Collins SCol DW Emley DWE L Bolton LBo AM Cook AMC SM Emley SME MJ Bonham MJB C Cook CCo C Evans CEv MD Boote MDB HRA Cook HRAC G Evans GEv B Boswell BBo T Cook TCo RJ Evans RJE M Bourne MBo JL Coombes JLC J Exell JEx R Bowers RBo JA Cooper JAC T Eyre TEy JJ Bowley JJB L Cooper LCo D Bradford DBra P Cooper PCo SJ Falk SJF K Brannan KBr S Cooper SCoo J Farmer JFa G Brereton GBre M Copsey MCo E Farndon EFa J Bricknell JBric G Corbett-Marshall GC-M AR Farrar ARF J Brindle JBrin H Cottam HCo T Farrington TFa T Brindley TBr S Couchman SCou D Farrow DFa RC Broadbent RCB D Cox DCo U Fenton UFe D Bromley DBro N Cox NCo PA Fereday PAF D Brooke-Taylor DB-T JH Craik JHC S Fielding SFi G Brown GBro SB Crawshaw SBC J Fife JFif RM Brown RMBr M Cresswell MCr J Fincham JFin RJ Brown RJB C Crowdy CCr M Flack MFl RM Brown RMBr I Crutchley ICr MR Fletcher MRF M Brown-Bolton MB-B G Cunliffe GCu J Follett JFo J Bryan JBr M Curnow MCu D Ford DFo R Bryant RBr A Curran ACu H Fox HFo WJ Brydges WJB R Currier RCu R Fox RFo C Bull CBul HY Franklin HYF M Bullock MBu J Dale JDa S Fraser SFr C Bundy CBun H Darwen HDa A Freeman AFr G Bundy GBu CJ Davies CJD D Freeman DFr C Burkes CBur G Davies GDa SN Freeman SNF D Burns DBu RJ Davies RJD R Frost RFr DW Burns DWB S Davies SDa R Fussell RFu AK Burton AKB LJ Davis LJD G Burton GBur JR Dawson JRD S Gale SGa G Butler GBut R Dawson RDa G Garner GGa I Butler IBu AR Dean ARD J Garnett JGa DA Dennis DAD BC George BCG B Calder BCa R Dennis RDe S Gibson SGi J Calder JCal GRJ Dent GRJD KR Gilbert KRG K Capps KCa K Dewey KDe R Gilbert RGi J Carter JCar A Dickie ADi P Glennon PGl N Carter (Staffs) NCa S Dix SDi MF Godfrey MFG N Carter (Warks) NCa D Dixon DDi W Goldstraw WGo SL Cawthray SLC S Dobson SDo J Goodchild JGo M Chadwick MChad SG Dodd SGD D Goodwin DGo M Chalmers MChal M Dodson MDo A Grace AGr JK Cheek JKC K Donaghy KDo K Gracie KGr J Chester JCh M Doughty-Lee MD-L M Grant MGr S Chilton SCh P Douthwaite PDo JR Gray JRG RJ Chuter RJCh S Drinkwater SDr N Greatholder NGr ES Clare ESC RE Duckhouse RED AS Green ASG F Clarke FCl S Duke SDu H Green HGr H Clarke HCl W Dutton WDu MR Green MRG J Clarke JCl P Dykta PDy R Green RGr R Clay RCl FC Gribble FCG P Clayton PCl A Eardley AEa G Griffiths GGr

265 MP Griffiths MPG R Ingleston RIn A Litvinoff ALi PJ Gruar PJG MJ Inskip MJI D Lloyd DLl I Guest IGu V Lloyd VLl AC Gutteridge ACG A Jackson AJa N Lomas NLo C Gwilliam CGw AG Jackson AGJ K Longshaw KLo David Gwilliams DaGw D Jackson DJa WJ Low WJL Dorothy Gwilliams DoGw T Jackson TJa P Lunt PLu WT Jackson WTJ R Lycett RLy AG Hall AGH S James SJa D Hall DHa M Jeeves MJe A Mabbett AMab RA Hall RAH T Jenkins TJe MR Macfadyen MRM MD Hallett MDH RJ Jennett RJJ A Machin AMac S Halsey SHal DA Jennings DAJ I Machin IMa RE Harbird REH PD Jeynes PDJ C Mackenzie CMac K Hards KHa A Johnson AJo J Mallinson JMa S Hares SHare L Johnson LJoh R Mander RMa A Harley AHarl P Johnson PJoh GJ Mant GJM B Harley BHar S Johnston SJo M Marginson MMa PA Harper PAH BJ Jones BJJ T Marlow TMa S Harper SHarp G Jones GJo N Marriner NMa AJ Harris AJH L Jones LJo E Marshall EMa J Harris JHa P Jones PJon PJ Marshall PJM A Harrison AHarr R Jones RJo GR Martin GRM GR Harrison GRH T Jones TJo R Maskew RMas JV Harrison JVH P Jordan PJor C Mason CMas G Harrop GHa JFC Judge JFCJ S Massey SMa P Harvey PHa A Jukes AJu P Mathie PMa C Hawkridge CHa R Jukes RJu G Maxwell GMa S Haycox SHay C Jupp CJu D Mayfield DMa SM Haynes SMH RC Mays RCM M Hayter MHa D Keeling DKee M McMaster MMc IM Hayward IMH A Keenan AKe H Meakin HMe B Hazell BHaz D Kelsall DKel G Mee GMe E Hearn EHe HA Kent HAK A Messenger AMe M Heath MHe S Kent SKe HJ Miller HJM B Heaton BHe J Kernohan JKe J Milner JMi F Henderson FHe D King DKi R Moffatt RMof S Henshall SHe RJ King RJK I Moore IMo Y Heward YHe BL Kington BLK NJ Moran NJM R Hewitt RHe C Kirk CKi P Moran PMo TC Hextell TCH RWS Knightbridge RWSK D Morgan-Smith DM-S C Heyworth CHe J Knights JKn G Morris GMo A Hickman-Hale AH-H A Kydd AKy J Morris JMo C Hill CHi M Morris MMo CE Hill CEH C Lane CLa N Moss NMos TM Hinett TMH CJ Lane CJL N Mott NMot J Hingley JHi R Langton RLan R Moyle RMoy M Holley MHo A Law ALa JB Murray JBM A Holliday AHo SJ Law SJL JP Murray JPM B Holmes BHo R Lawford RLaw LM Murray LMM P Holmes PHo JA Lawrence JAL JW Holt JWH E Lea ELe PAJ Newman PAJN E Homer EHo A Leak ALe JA Newton JAN L Homer LHo D Lee DLe GK Nicholls GKN N Horne NHo J Lee JLe P Nicholls PNi T Horsfield THo L Lees LLe P Noons PNo F Horsford FHo MJ Lewis MJL S Nuttall SNu J Horton JHo NR Lewis NRL C Howell-Jones CHo J Liggins JLi J O’Dell JO’D G Hunt GHu J Lindesy JLin N Oakes NOa R Husbands RHu M Lindsey MLi J Oates JOa D Hutton DHu ME Lindsey MEL S Oates SOa PD Hyde PDH I Littlewood ILi IE Oliver IEO

266 J Onions JOn C Rogers CRo G Summers GSu R Orton ROr PF Rogers PFR JD Sutton JDS E Osbaldeston EOs K Rome KRo M Sutton MSu C Osborne COs C Round CRou J Swanborough JSw SJ Osborne SJO CR Round CRR M Sway MSw A Owen AOw GP Rowling GPR R Swift RSw S Owen SOw J Rumble JRu JM Rushforth JMR N Talbot NTa J Packer JPac WJ Russell WJR I Tanner ITa S Pagett SPag S Ryan SRy J Tavener JTav D Palmer DPa J Taylor JTay C Parfrey CPar MJ Saffery MJSaf MJ Taylor MJT J Parker JPar T Sames TSa J Thackway JThac L Parkes LPa MJ Sanderson MJSan J Thatcher JThat K Patrick KPa P Sandwell PSa J Thickitt JThi A Pattison APa AL Saunders ALS A Thomas ATh C Payne CPay DJ Scanlan DJS CA Thomas CAT S Payne SPay DA Scattergood DASc MD Thomas MDT S Pedley SPed D Scott DSc RJ Thomas RJT GH Peplow GHP FM Scott FMS J Thurston JThu WF Peplow WFP RE Scott RES A Tomlinson ATo DJ Perks DJP S Seal SSe R Toon RTo T Perrins TPe C Sherlock CSh L Trevarthen LTr BR Perry BRP J Sherratt JSh J Tromans JTr R Perry RPe G Shilton GSh NP Trotman NPT M Perryman MPe A Simons ASi T Trueman TTr S Petrek SPet KS Simpson KSS A Turner ATu I Phillips IPh T Singh TSi G Turner GTu D Philp DPh JH Sirrett JHS L Turner LTu M Pittaway MPi D Skidmore DSk S Turner STu D Pointon DPoi A Slade ASla SJ Turner SJT ND Pomiankowski NDP KD Slatcher KDS R Tyler RTy L Poulson LPo A Sloan ASlo B Tymons BTy D Powell DPow BW Smith BWS BJ Tymons BJT P Powell PPo K Smith KSm J Tyndall JTy R Powell RPo MC Smith MCS H Tyson HTy RW Power RWP N Smith NSm L Price LPr NJ Smith NJS N Unwin NUn P Price PPr RL Smith RLS CP Print CPP S Smith SSm L von Ebling LvonE MC Print MCP T Smith TSm BG Prudden BGP V Smith VSm O Wadsworth OWa RA Prudden RAP P Sofley PSo N Waite NWa SEA Pullar SEAP M Southall MSo V Wales VWa A Speed ASp DRE Walker DREW MP Radford MPR P Spinks PSp DIM Wallace DIMW A Ramsell ARa J Squire JSq J Warburton JWa J Ratcliff JRa M Squire MSq I Ward IWa RB Ratcliffe RBR T Stachnicki TSta PJ Ward PJW P Reay PRe L Stanley LSt K Warmington KWa S Redfern SRe R Stanton RSt A Warr AWa C Reed CRe MP Stanyer MPS AD Warren ADW P Rhodes PRh MA Stephens MAS S Watchorn SWa J Richards JRi D Steptoe DSt M Webster MWe S Richards SRi A Stevens ASt S Webster SWeb SA Richards SAR J Stevens JSt I Wells IWe JHW Ridley JHWR JL Stevenson JLS S Wende SWen GR Roberts GRR DA Stone DASt J Wesson JWe S Roberts SRo T Stone TSto B Westwood BWe B Robinson BRo P Stoppard PSt K Wheatley KWe C Robinson CRob BR Stretch BRS O White OWh J Robinson JRo CR Stubbs CRS R White RWh M Robinson MRo RA Stuttard RAS E Whitehead EWh

267 PF Whitehead PFW M Willmott MWillm M Workman NWo SM Whitehouse SMWh K Wimbush KWi L Worledge LWo EK Wilcox EKW AWH Wincott AWHW P Worthy PWo D Wilkinson DWi M Wingrove MWin AL Wragg ALW A Williams AWil J Winsper JWi D Wragg DWra AG Williams AGW JR Winsper JRW D Wright DWri DM Williams DMW A Witts AWit L Wright LWr G Williams GWi A Wollaston AWo TJ Wright TJW GA Williams GAW M Wood MWo M Williams MWilli SC Wood SCW DW Yalden DWY P Williams PWi T Woodcock TWo M Yapp MYa R Williams RWi MG Woodhams MGW JJ Yardley JJY RD Williams RDW GT Woodin GTW C Yates CYa CS Williamson CSW G Woodward GWo A Yorke Ayo SM Williamson SMWi MWC Woodward MWCW

Aqualate Log Coombes Valley RSPB Report Banbury Ornithological Society Draycote Log Belvide Annual Report Nuneaton and District Birdwatchers’ Club Blithfield Reservoir Log RSPB Midland Office Brandon Marsh Conservation Group Staffs Ecological Records BTO Atlas Tittesworth Report BTO Bird Track Warwickshire Museum Chasewater Log WMBC Hotline Chasewater Report www.birdguides.com

268 Index

Avocet 82 Flycatcher, Spotted 186 Hoopoe 142 Fulmar 54 Bee-eater, European 141 Ibis, Glossy 60 Bittern, Eurasian 56 Gadwall 30 Blackbird 179 Gannet, Northern 54 Jackdaw, Nordic 147 Blackcap 167 Garganey 35 Jackdaw, Western 146 Brambling 207 Godwit, Bar-tailed 99 Jay, Eurasian 145 Bullfinch 219 Godwit, Black-tailed 98 Bunting, Corn 224 Goldcrest 150 Kestrel, Common 72 Bunting, Lapland 221 Goldeneye, Common 44 Kingfisher, Common 140 Bunting, Reed 223 Goldfinch 210 Kite, Red 66 Bunting, Snow 221 Goosander 47 Kittiwake 110 Buzzard, Common 70 Goose, Bar-headed 227 Knot, Red 91 Goose, Barnacle 23 Chaffinch 206 Goose, Bean 18 Lapwing, Northern 88 Chiffchaff, Common 163 Goose, Brent 24 Lark, Shore 157 Chiffchaff, Scandinavian 165 Goose, Egyptian 25 Lark, Sky 156 Chiffchaff, Siberian 165 Goose, Greater Canada 22 Lark, Wood 156 Cockatiel 229 Goose, Greylag 20 Linnet 214 Coot, Common 79 Goose, Lesser Canada 225 Lovebird, Rosy-faced 229 Cormorant, Great 54 Goose, Orinoco 227 Crane, Common 80 Goose, Pink-footed 18 Magpie 145 Crossbill, Common 218 Goose, Snow 225 Mallard 32 Crow, Carrion 148 Goose, White-fronted 19 Martin, House 160 Cuckoo, Common 134 Goshawk, Northern 69 Martin, Sand 157 Curlew , Eurasian 100 Grebe, Black-necked 64 Merganser, Hooded 226 Curlew, Stone 83 Grebe, Great Crested 62 Merganser, Red-breasted 46 Grebe, Little 61 Merlin 73 Dipper 178 Grebe, Red-necked 64 Moorhen 78 Diver, Black-throated 52 Grebe, Slavonian 64 Diver, Great Northern 53 Greenfinch 209 Nightingale, Common 187 Diver, Red-throated 52 Greenshank, Common 103 Nightjar, European 138 Dotterel 85 Grouse, Red 49 Nuthatch, Eurasian 175 Dove, Collared 133 Guineafowl, Helmeted 228 Dove, Diamond 228 Gull, Black-headed 110 Oriole, Black-naped 229 Dove, Palm 228 Gull, Caspian 119 Oriole, Golden 144 Dove, Stock 130 Gull, Common 114 Osprey 71 Dove, Turtle 133 Gull, Franklin's 13 Ouzel, Ring 178 Duck, Falcated 225 Gull, Glaucous 122 Owl, Barn 135 Duck, Fulvous Whistling 226 Gull, Great Black-backed 123 Owl, Little 136 Duck, Long-tailed 43 Gull, Herring 117 Owl, Long-eared 137 Duck, Mandarin 26 Gull, Iceland 120 Owl, Short-eared 138 Duck, Marbled 226 Gull, Kumlien's 121 Owl, Tawny 137 Duck, Muscovy 227 Gull, Lesser Black-backed 116 Oystercatcher 81 Duck, Ruddy 48 Gull, Little 112 Duck, Tufted 40 Gull, Mediterranean 113 Parakeet, Mitred 229 Duck, Wood 227 Gull, Ring-billed 115 Parakeet, Rose-ringed 134 Dunlin 93 Gull, Sabine's 109 Partridge, Grey 50 Dunnock 196 Gull, Yellow-legged 118 Partridge, Red-legged 50 Gyrfalcon Phalarope, Grey 109 Egret, Cattle 57 Pheasant, Common 52 Egret, Great White 59 Harrier, Hen 68 Pheasant, Golden 226 Egret, Little 57 Harrier, Marsh 67 Pheasant, Green 228 Eider, Common 43 Harrier, Montagu's 69 Pheasant, Lady Amherst’s 226 Hawfinch 220 Pigeon, Feral 130 Falcon, Peregrine 75 Hawk, Harris’s 228 Pigeon, Wood 131 Fieldfare 180 Hawk, Red-tailed 228 Pintail , Northern 34 Firecrest 151 Heron, Grey 59 Pintail, White-cheeked 228 Flycatcher, Pied 195 Hobby 74 Pipit, Meadow 203 Flycatcher, Red-breasted 195 Honey-buzzard 65 Pipit, Rock 205

269 Pipit, Scandinavian Rock 205 Shelduck, Common 25 Tit, Great 152 Pipit, Tree 203 Shelduck, Ruddy 225 Tit, Long-tailed 161 Pipit, Water 205 Shoveler 36 Tit, Marsh 155 Plover, European Golden 86 Shrike, Great Grey 144 Tit, Willow 154 Plover, Grey 87 Shrike, Red-backed 144 Treecreeper, Eurasian 176 Plover, Little Ringed 83 Siskin 211 Turnstone 108 Plover, Ringed 84 Skua, Great 109 Pochard, Common 39 Smew 45 Wagtail, Blue-headed 200 Pochard, Red-crested 38 Snipe, Common 96 Wagtail, Grey 200 Snipe, Jack 95 Wagtail, Pied 201 Quail, Common 51 Sparrow, House 196 Wagtail, White 202 Sparrow, Tree 197 Wagtail, Yellow 198 Rail, Water 76 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 69 Warbler, Cetti's 161 Raven, Common 149 Spoonbill, Eurasian 60 Warbler, Dartford 171 Redpoll, Common 217 Starling, Common 177 Warbler, Garden 168 Redpoll, Lesser 215 Stint, Little 92 Warbler, Grasshopper 172 Redshank , Common 102 Stint, Temminck's 93 Warbler, Reed 173 Redshank, Spotted 102 Stonechat 191 Warbler, Sedge 172 Redstart, Black 188 Stork, White 60 Warbler, Willow 165 Redstart, Common 188 Swallow, Barn 158 Warbler, Wood 162 Redwing 183 Swan, Bewick's 17 Warbler, Yellow-browed 162 Robin 187 Swan, Black 226 Waxwing 174 Rook 147 Swan, Mute 16 Wheatear, Greenland 195 Ruff 94 Swan, Whooper 17 Wheatear, Northern 193 Swift, Common 139 Whimbrel 99 Saker 226 Whinchat 190 Sanderling 92 Teal, Chestnut 227 Whitethroat, Common 170 Sandpiper, Common 106 Teal, Cinnamon 228 Whitethroat, Lesser 169 Sandpiper, Curlew 93 Teal, Eurasian 31 Wigeon, American 29 Sandpiper, Green 104 Teal, Silver 228 Wigeon, Chiloe 227 Sandpiper, Pectoral 93 Tern, Arctic 129 Wigeon, Eurasian 28 Sandpiper, Purple 93 Tern, Black 124 Woodcock 98 Sandpiper, Spotted 108 Tern, Common 127 Woodpecker, Great Sandpiper, Wood 105 Tern, Little 124 Spotted 143 Scaup, Greater 42 Tern, Whiskered 124 Woodpecker, Green 142 Scaup, Lesser 43 Tern, Sandwich 126 Woodpecker, Lesser Scoter, Common 43 Tern, White-winged Black 126 Spotted 143 Scoter, Velvet 44 Thrush, Mistle 185 Wren 176 Shag 56 Thrush, Song 182 Wryneck 142 Shearwater, Manx 54 Tit, Bearded 155 Shelduck, Australian 227 Tit, Blue 152 Yellowhammer 221 Shelduck, Cape 227 Tit, Coal 153

270 Notes

271 Notes

272