West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 62 1995 Juvenile Little Owl, Bumtwood, Staffs., June (Phill Ward)

West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 62 1995 Juvenile Little Owl, Bumtwood, Staffs., June (Phill Ward). West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 62 1995

The Annual Heport ot the West Midland Bird Club on the birds in the counties of Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire and the former West Midlands county.

Contents 2 Officers and Committee 3 Editorial 4 Birds in 1995 11 The White Wagtail in Autumn 14 The BTO Breeding Bird Survey 17 Classified Notes 159 Short Notes 164 Ringing in 1995 170 Submission of Records 171 County Lists 177 Gazetteer 183 Key to Contributors

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

Printed by C. H. Healey, 49-55 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JL. Price £5.00 2

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 1996 Procident C A Nnrris Vice Presidents F C Gribble, W E Oddie Chairman *A J Richards, 1 Lansdowne Road, Studley, Warks B80 7JG Deputy Chairman *G R Harrison, "Bryher", Hatton Green, Hatton, Warks CV35 7LA Secretary *H M MacGregor, 74 ivyfieid Road, Erdington, Birmingham B23 7HH Treasurer *B J Cartwright, 78 Redwood Avenue, Stone, Staffs, ST15 ODB Report Editor J J Bowley, 17 Meadow Way, Fenny Compton, Warks CV33 OWD Bulletin Editor J P South, The Croft, Lower Penkridge Road, Acton Trussell, Stafford ST17 ORJ Membership Secretary J O Reeves, 9 Hintons Coppice, Knowle, Solihull B93 9RF Permit Secretary Miss M Surman, 6 Lloyd Square, 12 Niall Close, Birmingham B15 3LX Ringing Secretary *A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs B78 and Promotion, Fund 3HZ Raising and General Purposes Committee Chairman Research and *J R Winsper, 32 Links Road, Hollywood, Birmingham B14 Reserves Committee 4TP Chairman Birmingham Branch *J N Sears, 14 Ingram Street, Malmesbury, Wilts SN16 9BX Chairman Solihull Branch *G A Morley, 64 Cambridge Avenue, Solihull, B91 1QF Chairman Staffordshire Branch *F C Gribble, 22 Rickerscote Avenue, Stafford, Staffs ST17 4EZ Chairman Tamworth Branch B Stubbs, 19 Alfred Street, Tamworth, Staffs Chairman Warwickshire Recorder S M Haynes, 4 Spinney Close, Old Arley, Coventry CV7 8PD (From 1997) J J Bowley (address above) Worcestershire R E Harbird, Flat 4, Buckley Court, 16 Woodfield Road, Recorder Moseley, Birmingham B13 9UJ Staffordshire Recorder Mrs G N Jones, 4 The Poplars, Lichfield Road, Abbots Bromley, Rugeley, Staffs WS15 3AA West Midlands T C Hextell, 49 Cradley Croft, Handsworth, Birmingham Recorder B21 8HP Executive Council Mrs H F Brittain (Minuting Sec.), D Coles, Dr B Dudley, T G Smart Records Committee J J Bowley, R E Harbird, S M Haynes, T C Hextell, Mrs G N Jones, W J Low * Officers serving on the Executive Council 3

Editorial Welcome to the slightly new look 1995 Annual Report. Gone are the familiar sections of officers reports, thus allowing rather more space for individual articles. I would therefore welcome any future contributions from members, particularly those based on survey work of local bird populations. A look at Jim Winsper's interesting paper on the BTO Breeding Bird Survey will hopefully inspire more people to undertake this valuable, though fairly straightforward survey. I myself have taken part and found that it gave me a new outlook in my birdwatching revealing much of interest in what at first glance appeared to be just another featureless Coventry suburb. In the Classified Notes, readers will notice that I have introduced status comments to species accounts, hopefully putting records into context and allowing observers unfamiliar with the Region to understand them more thoroughly. These are loosely based on those used by Harrison et al. in The Birds of the West Midlands (1982) but have been slightly modified to give a greater range of status categories. At present due to the paucity of local fieldwork on many species, status comments on certain birds are at best highly subjective; but hopefully these will become more accurate in future. However it is clear that many species have suffered serious declines since The Birds of the West Midlands was compiled and many now belong in a lower category than formerly. I have also, after requests from members, resurrected the county lists and have indicated those species that require descriptions with asterisks. Finally after almost ten years, Steve Haynes has decided to step down as county recorder for Warwickshire to concentrate (hopefully!) on finding more birds. As his replacement, I would on behalf of the officers and membership wish to thank him for all his hard work, often in difficult circumstances, over the years. As a measure of his commitment he has kindly agreed to stay on as a member of the Records Committee and to help with record collation within the county. My thanks go to all those who gave their help to the production of this report, in particular to Jim Winsper, Bert Coleman, Pete Hackett, Steve Whitehouse and John Martin for their articles, to Mike Gaydon and the staff at C H Healey, to my wife Dawn for help with compilation, and to the following: The county recorders and their teams: Warwickshire: Steve Haynes and Graham Harrison. Worcestershire: Richard Harbird. Staffordshire: Gilly Jones, Eric Clare, Bill Low, John Martin, Ben Reavey and Trevor Smart. West Midlands: Tim Hextell. The Artists: Phil Jones, Dave Nurney, Terry Parker and John Teasdale. The Photographers: Mike Inskip, Keith Stone and Phill Ward. WMBC Hotline: Eric Clare (01283-791171) J J Bowley 4

Birds in 1995 A total of 231 species were recorded in the Region during the year, rather fewer than the last couple of years, presumably reflecting the fine weather of both spring and autumn which allowed migrants to pass over unhindered. There were however highlights, including the first record of Arctic Redpoll which arrived with an unprecedented invasion of Mealy Redpolls; together with second records of Great White Egret and Lesser Yellowlegs, and the fourth of Serin and Little Bunting. Almost as rare were first records of Dartford Warbler and Great Snipe for 80 and 40 years respectively, while other vagrants included Night Heron, White Stork, several Rough-legged Buzzards and two Montagu's Harriers, Black-winged Stilt, Stone Curlew, Kentish Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Sabine's Gull, Pomarine Skua, Bluethroat and Savi's Warbler. After a mostly mild wet late winter period, the year was remarkable for a warm dry spring which led into the hottest and driest summer since 1976, followed by an exceptionally warm autumn which lasted until early November. The resulting drought probably adversely affected breeding success of many species, but particularly of wetland waders such as Redshank and Common Snipe. An exceptionally cold December finished off a year which to many vindicated fears of global warming. The first five days of January were bitterly cold with a heavy frost, but the north wind soon gave way to south-westerlies bringing unsettled though mild and wet weather for most of the rest of the month. Traditional winter visitors were generally in short supply and things were unusually quiet, with few unusual birds remaining over from 1994 to greet the new year lister. Perhaps the best was a Red-throated Diver at Larford which remained in Worcs into February. In the cold spell at the beginning of the month several interesting birds did turn up briefly, including a Gannet on 2nd, a Pomarine Skua on 4th, and two more Red-throated Divers and a party of six Grey Plover on 5th. A thaw next day saw the somewhat incongruous appearance of a male Garganey at Doxey (which stayed into February), while a Black-throated Diver on 7th was followed on 8th by the first of several Black-necked Grebes, a bird which is normally rare in mid-winter in our Region. About nine Smew were found during the month while the gull enthusiasts found about nine or ten each of Iceland and Mediterranean Gulls along with a few Glaucous and Little Gulls and Kittiwakes. Four Hen Harriers were located although only the Barton bird was reliable. Cormorants continued to increase and the 459 at Draycote set a new Regional record. Scarce passerines were just that, with single Firecrests on 11th and 15th and a Rock Pipit on 17th-18th being noteworthy, but again only one Water Pipit; however the Bewdley Hawfinch flock was the most popular with a peak of 22 there on 20th. Also that day a Bittern and another Black- throated Diver were found, the latter joining the Red-throat at Larford allowing good comparison and was the first Worcs record for ten years. On 21st a Magpie roost at Westport reached a record 170 birds! The final week produced a couple of Red- breasted Mergansers but the highlight was a Great Grey Shrike photographed at Malvern on 26th. Next day the winds veered briefly back to the north with snow falling all day, and this may have sparked off a movement of 206 Pink-footed Geese over Belvide on 29th.

February remained very mild and wet with predominantly south-west or west winds, sometimes bringing heavy rain in off the Atlantic. The only cold spell was on 8th-9th when a north-easterly wind brought some snow flurries. There were few highlights in 5

another exceptionally quiet month, though Mediterranean Gull numbers were high following an apparent record influx into south-east England. There were five-eight in Staffs while at Draycote the roost allegedly attracted a record seven on 11th, although this remains as yet unsubstantiated. Two or three Black-necked Grebes continued to haunt the Kingsbury area (staying well into March), while other species more reminiscent of warmer months included a Black Redstart on 8th and a female Garganey (again at Doxey) on 11th-12th. A small influx of Common Crossbills from mid-month included a flock of over 40 on Cannock Chase on 20th and there were records of Mealy Redpoll on 14th and 21st, the latter of a party of ten. The month ended more optimistically with records of Brent Goose on 24th and Red-necked Grebe on 26th.

Northern Wheatear and Sand Martins (Phil Jones)

A very early Sand Martin ushered in March on 1st, before cold northerlies from 2nd- 8th brought frequent snow and hail showers. The return of warmer southerlies on 9th brought a Black Redstart followed by the first wave of summer migrants on 11th, including Little Ringed Plover, a couple of Northern Wheatears and a scatter of Chiffchaffs and more Sand Martins, correlating with a large arrival of these species on the south coast. Winter visitors took advantage of the weather and began moving north, these including good numbers of Fieldfares and Redwings which until then had been rather scarce in most districts, while Jack Snipe reached a peak of 18 at Grimley, a Worcs record. Light southerly winds continued unabated until 26th, apart from a brief respite on 18th-19th when a cold north-west wind brought hailstorms. The Tame valley Ferruginous Duck was last seen on 9th when a returning Rough-legged Buzzard was seen on the North Staffs Moors. Woodlark returned to last years site on 12th, following which new birds appeared daily with another Rough-legged Buzzard, the first White Wagtail and a very early Cuckoo on 15th, another Cuckoo and the Region's fourth record of Serin on 16th, and the first Swallow on 17th. After two days of inclement weather, a migrant Goshawk over Coventry on 20th was a fine sight, with the first Ring Ouzels and Willow Warbler appearing on 23rd and yet another migrant 6

Rough-legged Buzzard on 24th. A pair of Garganey on a small pool in south Warks on 25th was a qood record, and the passage of Northern Wheatears which was much heavier than recently peaked around 25th-27th, apparently many birds being held up by a sudden return to winter conditions with cold north-westerlies bringing frequent snow showers from 26th-30th. Incoming waders during the last week included the first Black-tailed Godwits, and Curlews which reached a peak of 310 at Tittesworth. A smaller than usual passage of Kittiwakes peaked around now with ten logged on 26th. Finally, another early Cuckoo on 27th was followed by the first House Martin on 29th.

A light south-westerly breeze brought warm dry sunny weather for the first half of April with temperatures reaching 20°C or more on many days. Migration conditions were generally favourable and summer migrants arrived steadily, though with no appreciable influxes. The first Sandwich Tern, Yellow Wagtail, an extremely early Turtle Dove and the first spring Black-necked Grebe on 1 st, were followed next day by the first of a very early arrival of Common Whitethroats. A pair of Red-breasted Mergansers on 4th and a party of eight Grey Plover in Worcs on 5th were eclipsed by a well-watched Rough-legged Buzzard and Great Grey Shrike on the moors during the second week. New summer migrants appeared almost daily with Sedge Warbler on 6th, Common Tern and Pied Flycatcher on 7th, Tree Pipit on 8th, Arctic Tern, Common Redstart and Grasshopper Warbler on 9th and Reed Warbler on 10th. A Firecrest at Brandon on 9th was succeeded there by a very early Wood Sandpiper on 11th-12th, while two Ospreys went through the same week. On 14th the first Lesser White- throat, Garden Warbler and Wood Warblers arrived. From 15th onwards the weather became more unsettled with the return of a northerly airstream bringing a few frosty nights and an occasional heavy shower, though it mainly remained mild, dry and sunny. Three Blue-headed Wagtails on 16th coincided with the start of peak White Wagtail passage, while new migrants included Whimbrel and Common Swift on 17th, Nightingale on 18th and Hobby on 19th. The 21st was a red letter day with the discovery of the Region's fourth Little Bunting, as well as Osprey, Red Kite, the first Whinchats and a second peak of Northern Wheatear passage (until 23rd). Heavy rain on the morning of the 22nd brought down many Common Swifts including an amazingly early concentration of 500 to Draycote. A male Montagu's Harrier was the highlight of 23rd, a day which also saw the arrival of the first of five April Marsh Harriers, Red-necked Grebe and Water Pipit. A peak of 32 Common Crossbills occurred in Wyre Forest on 24th. From 24th-26th at least 187 Arctic Terns passed through the Region, whilst a notable passage of Little Gulls across Southern England brought at least 58 to our reservoirs on 28th. Whimbrel passage also peaked during the last few days including a flock of 33 on 30th. A new Shag briefly joined the surviving long-stayer at Draycote on 29th and the last Smew, Fieldfare and Redwing left the Region on 30th, when the only spring Spotted Redshank was seen.

The first week of May was exceptionally warm and sunny but generally rather quiet. All eyes were turned to Bredon Hill on 1 st with the discovery of a Stone Curlew, only the second in 40 years, while a Greenland Wheatear and singing Firecrest were also found there during the week. Spotted Flycatchers began to appear daily from 6th and the last Golden Plover appeared on 8th. From this date onwards the weather began to break down with westerlies coming in off the Atlantic bringing cooler showery conditions until 19th. Several more Marsh Harriers and an Osprey appeared in the 7

second week, with the first Quail at two sites on 11th. However the highlight, also on 11th, were two Black-winged Stilts at Blithfield which were well photographed during their short stay. A brief period of light showers from the east during the third week brought a scattering of Black Terns and about seven Wood Sandpipers, as well as Black-necked Grebe and a late Brambling on 14th. A Nightjar found in Worcs also on 14th was a good find, while the first Little Egret of the year was seen on 16th. Fine weather returned from 20th and warm southerlies dominated for the rest of the month. Late Scaup and Bewick's Swan on 20th and 22nd were unseasonal, while the better weather led to an increase in raptor activity including sightings of three Red Kites and single Marsh and Hen Harriers and Osprey during 20th-24th. Wader passage was fairly dismal, not helped by high water levels at some sites, and eight Sanderling at Barton on 22nd was the only noteworthy record. A Night Heron on 24th was unfortunately seen only by the lucky finder. The first of the remnant Marsh Warbler population arrived back on 26th, while the month closed with two unusual seabirds; a Shag on 27th and a Gannet on 29th.

Unlike the preceding month, June was rather more interesting than usual. A cool overcast and showery first half opened with a long-staying though extremely elusive Bittern being discovered at Brandon. On colder days vast concourses of Common Swifts occurred on some of the larger waters including over 3000 at Blithfield and 2000 at Belvide. On 10th a Montagu's Harrier in Warks was only the third county record, whilst five Common Scoter at nearby Draycote was a good total in an otherwise poor year for this seaduck. Next day a Knot, two Little Stints and a Turnstone appeared there and an Osprey in Worcs, but the best wader of the month, a male Kentish Plover at Tittesworth on 15th was again just seen briefly by a single observer. A male Scaup in the Tame valley on 17th was outclassed next day by a Spoonbill (the first for three years) along with one or two Wood Sandpipers in Staffs. The 18th also saw the return to warmer humid sunny weather and temperatures rapidly increased during the last few days reaching at least 32°C on 30th. Quail had quite a good year with at least 17 calling males located. Yellow-legged Gulls made their now traditional summer return from 23rd, with early returning waders including Black-tailed Godwit and Spotted Redshank from 25th. Another briefly staying Little Egret on 26th was followed by a singing Savi's Warbler which entertained Brandon visitors from 29th well into July.

After a few cooler days at the beginning of the month July remained hot dry and sunny, with temperatures of around 20-30°C recorded daily. A dozen Common Scoter and a Red-breasted Merganser were observed during 3rd-8th but the rest of the month was notable for the appearance of several large scarce wading birds. The first was another Spoonbill in Staffs on 11th which next day transferred to Blithfield and obligingly lingered there until late August. This was followed by a White Stork on 18th and a Little Egret from 19th-21st. The chief prize however, and one of the year's outstanding records, was the finding of a Great White Egret in the Meriden area on 24th. This bird remained, though often very elusive, for almost a month allowing most serious Regional listers to catch up with it. As in spring wader passage continued to be unusually sparse, despite rapidly falling water levels, but there was a small influx of Black-tailed Godwits. The month ended with a Red Kite on 29th and a Marsh Harrier and two more unseasonal Scaup on 31st. 8

August remained very hot and dry with temperatures of up to 33°C recorded, making this one of the hottest summers on record. Drought conditions prevailed throughout the Region and grass fires were becoming a problem in many areas popular with the general public. For a month which is normally one of the better ones in the year, things were exceedingly quiet with just a few Marsh Harriers the only bird of note on the move. A flock of 60 TWite on the moors at Knotbury on 3rd presumably reflected a good breeding season for this often difficult-to-locate finch. Wader passage continued to be very sparse, although a Worcs county record of 14 Greenshank on 21st went against the general trend, as did one of the year's most unexpected finds: a superb Great Snipe in Sandwell Valley on 22nd. Courageously the finder stuck to his guns despite initial scepticism and a number of observers managed to see the bird before dusk fell. Disappointingly it was not seen, despite one or two claims, the following morning. A northerly breeze thankfully brought cooler conditions during the final week, and this coincided with the discovery of a Spotted Crake at Brandon which was the first in Warks for six years. This was not too unexpected as it was a good month nationally for this elusive crake, partly due to the drought revealing many muddy margins which brought feeding birds out into the open; this bird delighted many people until early September.

While August was quiet, September was as usual full of interest. Heavy rain on 2nd was the first for many weeks and the rest of the month remained unsettled with warm sunny days mixed with cool wet ones as westerlies moved across the Region. Two Arctic Skuas on 2nd were the only substantiated ones of the year, while also on this day Yellow Wagtail passage peaked with 120 at Blithfield. Two American waders turned up in the first week, with Pectoral Sandpiper on 5th and Buff-breasted Sandpiper on 7th, while a second Spotted Crake on 6th-8th and an early Jack Snipe on 7th were supported by Black-necked Grebe, Marsh Harrier and Osprey. A short period of easterlies in the second and third weeks brought huge numbers of Scandinavian passerines to the east coast, and this coincided with a scatter of migrants across our Region including Common and Black Redstarts, Whinchat, Pied Flycatcher, Tree Pipit, Wood Warbler and the first Redwing. The pick of the bunch was a Bluethroat on 9th and single Wrynecks on 13th and 21st. A party of 12 White Wagtails on 10th may also have been from this source. Swallow passage was heavy during this period while a small incursion of waders included at least 12 Curlew Sandpipers and 20 Little Stints. Tern passage was poor but did include a party of 15 Black Terns on 10th and a good supporting cast comprised Red-necked Grebe, Shag and several Black-necked Grebes, Marsh Harriers and Ospreys. Wildfowl numbers were high as migrants passed through. An influx of Pintail resulted in records from 13 sites, with most on Staffs reservoirs, while about 25 Garganey were found. Shoveler peaked at 225 at Aqualate, up to four Red-crested Pochards were at Draycote and the Tame valley Ferruginous Duck returned for its sixth winter. A short spell of strong westerly winds occurred from 24th-27th which presumably accounted for sightings of Grey Phalarope on 24th, Shag on 27th, Pectoral Sandpiper on 29th and a juvenile Sabine's Gull on 30th. The month ended as it started, with warm sunshine and little wind.

Fine sunny days continued throughout the following month making it the warmest October for 300 years, and resulting in some good passages of diurnal migrants, 9

particularly along the Cotswold scarp slopes in south Warks. Many summer migrants lingered later than usual including Hobby which were still widespread during the first week or so. Ten Brent Geese in Staffs on 1st were presumably incoming migrants as was another on 6th. Other more traditional winter migrants such as Redwing, Fieldfare and Siskin remained incredibly scarce however. After Osprey and Sandwich Tern on 7th, the first Scaup and Bramblings appeared on 8th followed on 9th by a passage of 68 mainly juvenile Common Terns at just two sites, a day which also saw the last Little Ringed Plover. Other last dates for summer migrants included Common Redstart on 10th, Whimbrel on 15th, Yellow Wagtail and Willow Warbler on 16th, Hobby on 17th and Northern Wheatear on 18th. The floodgates of incoming winter visitors finally burst on the night of the 21st, with a huge passage of thrushes (particularly Redwings) and many Bramblings lasting until at least 23rd. Single Red-necked Grebe and Pectoral Sandpiper both arrived on 22nd and stayed until the end of the month, the former eventually dying after becoming entangled in fishing line. On 25th-26th three out of only six autumn Water Pipits arrived, while a Marsh and two Hen Harriers passed through during the second half of the month. The last Black Tern, House Martin and Ring Ouzel was seen on 28th, a late Osprey and the first Bewick's and Whooper Swans on 29th and finally the last of a late scatter of Garganey on 30th. The extraordinary Indian summer finally gave way to the first frosts on November 4th. but unusually mild conditions continue to prevail during the month. Light southerly winds predominated bringing frequent rain (particularly during the last week) and occasional frosts or fog. A number of late-staying Chiffchaffs were still being reported early in the month, along with a Whinchat on 1st. Another Red-necked Grebe arrived at Belvide next day and stayed much of the month, while also on 2nd a Little Auk was found on the R.Avon in Stratford. This bird was the victim of an enormous 'wreck' of this species from 1 st down the North Sea coast and considering that this was one of the largest ever documented it is surprising that no other victims came to light. Two Whooper Swans on 3rd were followed on 5th by a female Ferruginous Duck at Ladywalk, which brought the reserve list to an impressive 200 species. Also that day a Snow Bunting, the only one of the year, was found on the North Staffs Moors. During the second week several late summer visitors including Common Swift and a couple of Swallows were seen, but the best bird was the Lesser Yellowlegs found on the little known half-empty Knighton Reservoir for six days from 11th, only the second Regional record. Next day Ladywalk claimed another new bird, Cetti's Warbler, while a male Hen Harrier reappeared on the moors and a long-staying Red-necked Grebe was found at Dosthill. Things were then fairly quiet for the rest of the month, though a Black- necked Grebe, a couple of one-day Bitterns, a late Turnstone and a couple of Red- breasted Mergansers were reported. One lucky Warks observer found a Goshawk in the Tame valley on 22nd followed by a Hen Harrier on 27th, both rare and much sought-after county birds. The first of what proved to be a huge invasion of Mealy Redpolls closed the month, with an unusually large late party of 15 Little Gulls at Westport also of note.

The first few days of December were dark damp and foggy, but an easterly airflow set in on 4th bringing very cold weather for the rest of the month. There was much snow and temperatures often fell to below -8°C at night, making it the coldest December for 14 years. The only respite was a short thaw from 14th-18th. The month opened well 10

Bittern (Dave Nurney) with unusual records of Avocet and Curlew Sandpiper (the first for this month) on 3rd when an unseasonal Hoopoe in north Warks braved the cold weather until 27th when it may have finally perished. A Grey Phalarope and a party of six Red-breasted Mergansers on 4th heralded the start of colder conditions, while the 7th produced a Purple Sandpiper, the first of six Smew and an influx of White-fronted Geese. Among the latter were at least two flocks in the Tame valley and a peak of 67 (17th) at Draycote. A Brent Goose and a party of 20 Barnacle Geese seemed also associated with these. A widespread influx of Goosander led to new county records of 71 at Draycote, 98 at Larford and no fewer than 185 at Belvide, while several more Red- breasted Mergansers appeared. A Slavonian Grebe on 8th was the only substantiated record of the year and coincided with a large influx into eastern counties, which may also have been responsible for a Black-necked Grebe from 9th. Also on 9th a Firecrest in Droitwich was outdone by the discovery of the first Dartford Warbler for 80 years on the Lickey Hills. This bird stayed, despite the snow, to delight its many admirers until the end of the year. A flock of 400 Brambling in Staffs on the same day was notable. The first of four Iceland Gulls arrived on 10th, when three Turnstones were unusual visitors to the Black Country, followed by another five on 18th. A late Black Redstart in Birmingham on 13th-14th must have wished it was elsewhere! A long-staying Red-throated Diver appeared at Blithfield from 17th, with two more arriving in Warks later in the month, during bitterly cold weather which also produced a Velvet Scoter and small influxes of Bewick's Swans and Scaup. Very large numbers of wildfowl resorted to Draycote during the last few days, including 2000 Wigeon, 1300 Coot and a Regional record of 180 Gadwall. Three Grey Plover and single Sanderling, Knot, Bar-tailed Godwit and Turnstone were unusual cold weather visitors during the final two days, when a Bittern at Ladywalk stayed into the new year. Finally, the Mealy Redpoll influx gained momentum reaching a peak during the last week, when one or two Arctic Redpolls were found among them at Hanchurch to put a new species on the Regional list and to give prospects for an exciting start to 1996.

J J Bowley 11

The White Wagtail in Autumn The continental race of Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba alba known colloquially as White Wagtail is a well-recorded spring passage migrant visiting many of the Region's reservoirs and gravel pits, mainly in April but commonly spanning mid-March to mid-May. But where are they all on return passage? A scan through the last 40 Annual Reports would suggest that they are very rare with just 20 records, all since 1975. I suspect that the majority of birdwatchers will not take the trouble of searching for this race in autumn, partly in the mistaken belief that they are indistinguishable from Pied and partly because it is less noticeable than when it arrives in pristine spring plumage. This article seeks to shed some light on this virtually unrecorded migration in the hope that more people will look out for them in the future and submit their records.

Identification Some of the best available references are in Harris, Tucker and Vinicombe (1989). Birds occurring in our Region are mainly in first-winter or adult winter plumage, juveniles having moulted before migrating. By the time these arrive in early September the juvenile Pied Wagtails have also mainly moulted into first-winter plumage and are thus much easier to separate. Adult: very similar to spring plumage but with much reduced black crown. The black bib is also mainly lost, with only a narrow but neat black necklace remaining. First-winter: most birds lack any black on the crown at all, although a few males have some rudimentary colouring above the bill. Instead the crown is light grey, the same colour as the mantle. The black necklace is present but obscure. In all plumages birds are light ash-grey above (similar to juvenile Pied, but see above) and are generally much neater and cleaner looking than the similar plumages of Pied. A useful feature is that the flanks and breast sides always look very clean and white; pieds usually have quite dark smoky-grey flanks. Whites, particularly the first-winters, also have a much more open-faced look due to the absence, or very reduced amount, of black on the crown, and the more restricted and neater black necklace (the Pied has a more extensive and messy necklace). The wings are lighter fawn-grey than Pied, with fainter and more obscure wing-bars. Finally, if still in doubt, the rump and lower back is always pale grey in White and darker smoky grey in Pied.

The national picture The birds which pass through our Region are mainly from Iceland, with negligible numbers also from the Faeroes and Greenland. These birds pass south through the British Isles, western France and Iberia to winter quarters in West Africa south to Senegal. A smaller population from Norway also migrates through Britain via the Northern Isles, but these tend to winter in south-west France and in Spain (BWP). Within the British Isles spring passage northwards tends to be on a broad front, but in autumn although involving far greater numbers, it is more localised and tends to be concentrated in the Irish Sea region. Passage is mainly coastal, with the largest numbers passing through north and west Scotland, Wales, south-west England and eastern and southern Ireland. Inland this passage is very poorly documented as in our Region, though it appears to become scarcer progressively eastwards. In Wales Lovegrove (1994) notes that it is a common migrant on a broad front throughout the 12

principality occurring at many inland sites, and I myself have found small parties in September utilising sewage treatment works in the central and eastern valleys, where they feed with flocks of other wagtails. Many ot the small works scattered across our Region also attract substantial autumn wagtail flocks, and it may well prove with regular observation that these too attract White Wagtails. Nationally, the heaviest passages occur on offshore islands such as St Kilda, Fair Isle, Lundy and the Isles of Scilly. On Fair Isle (Dymond 1991), small numbers start passing through from the beginning of August reaching a huge peak during the last week in that month, before gradually tailing off to mid-October and with stragglers into November. Further south as one could expect, the peak comes a week or so later eg. on Scilly it is abundant from late August to mid-September (Penhallurick 1978). Inland in England very little attention has been paid to this passage, and the only detailed study that I can find was undertaken as long ago as 1961 at Rye Meads, Herts (Gladwin and Sage 1986). Here birds were noted regularly from July 29th-October 11th, with a noticeable peak of 25 on September 8th and 15 on 9th. However this may have been an exceptional year for this race and in reality passage may be more erratic.

The Regional picture How do existing records reflect the national scene? The 20 published records since 1975 span the period from July 31st-October 27th and are shown in Fig.1. Although a few may have been misidentified, as can be seen the overall picture is very similar to national data, with most occurring in September and a definite peak during the second week, so the graph is probably fairly accurate. Most records are of singles only, although there are two records of two together and in 1995 a party of 12 was found. Easily the most favoured site has been Draycote, with seven records all since 1988 usually found among flocks of migrating wagtails which resort to the dam walls to feed on fly hatches. This is also one of the best spring sites for this race. Elsewhere, records come from 12 sites scattered across all four counties, with only Upton Warren having more than one.

Fig. 1. Weekly distribution of records of autumn passage White Wagtails per calender month.

8 T

6 Number of 4 Records 2 mu [flH •H 0 I I i i I ! 1 r 12 3 4 11 1 12 3 4 3 4 • 2 3 4 1 July August September October

Discussion It is clear that there is a small autumn passage across the Region, one that is probably largely overlooked by most birdwatchers. Although records come largely from Draycote 13

there is no reason why other sites that attract this race in spring should not do so in autumn. Apart from reservoirs and gravel pits, other habitats such as sewage treatment works and newly mown grasslands may also feature although these attract few observers. Passage birds are most likely to be found between mid-August and mid-October, but with a clear peak around the second week in September. We have little knowledge of suitable weather patterns, although strong westerlies may well move migrants into the midlands. Conversely, periods of easterly winds which bring many Scandinavian passerine migrants to the east coast may also move Norwegian birds into our area. There seems a good chance that the 1995 Draycote flock was from this source, particularly as a Blue- throat was found the evening before at Brandon Marsh, just a few miles away. So this autumn at your local reservoir, instead of just scanning for waders and terns and then leaving, why don't you spend some time going through the wagtail flocks and see if you can add to our knowledge; better still check your local sewage worksl

References: Cramp S. (Ed.) (1988) The Birds of the Western Palearctic Volume V. OUP, Oxford. Dymond J. N. (1991) The Birds of Fair Isle. Ritchie, Edinburgh. Gladwin T. W. and Sage B. L. (1986) The Birds of Hertfordshire. Castlemead, Ware. Harris A., Tucker L. and Vinicombe K. (1989) The Macmillan Field Guide to Bird Iden- tification, Macmillan, London. Lovegrove R., Williams G. and Williams I. (1994) Birds in Wales. Poyser, London. Penhallurick R. (1978) The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Headland, Penzance. J J Bowley 14

The BTO Breeding Bird Survey 1961/1895 Comparisons and 1995 Results The Breeding Bird Survey aims to monitor populations of birds across the country. The scheme is organised by the British Trust for Ornithology in collaboration with the Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. It is intended that this survey will replace the Common Bird Census (CBC) which has been the method that has kept tabs on population trends of our commoner birds since the early 1960's. The CBC has been a valuable survey and will not be completely dis- carded however; though it is time-consuming and selective of habitat. The new Breed- ing Bird Survey (BBS) uses a 1km2 square as a recording unit, these squares are chosen randomly by computer to ensure the results are free from geographical and observer bias. There has been good coverage achieved in all four counties that form the West Midland Bird Club area. The heavily populated and industrial region that forms much of our central area which in the past has been seen to be an unprofitable area to count birds has subsequently been poorly monitored. This area does in fact support large numbers of many species, placing a great importance on the results received from such squares if we are to achieve coverage of the entire diversity of habitat across the UK.

Pied Wagtails (Terry Parker)

Over 1500 squares were covered nationally in 1994, increasing to over 1700 in 1995. It is hoped that coverage will be increased so that at least 2000 squares are covered annually, this will ensure a high level of accuracy for estimating trends of common species and will enable us to monitor the populations of some less widespread species for the first time.

Coverage in the WMBC Region An excellent total of 93 squares were covered in the club's area in 1995 compared to 78 in 1994; a very healthy increase. Of these, 74 squares were covered in both years, 15

a continuity of coverage which is very important in allowing us to monitor population change between years.

Regional Results - Results for the bU most widespread species are presented in Tabular form. Table 1 shows the total number of birds counted throughout the 93 squares covered in 1995 and their distribution in terms of numbers of squares that they were found in. Topping this list is Woodpigeon which was found in all 93 squares. Obviously bird detectability varies between species so it does not necessarily follow that the Woodpigeon is more abundant for instance than Wren in the squares covered, it is simply that their behaviour makes them more obvious. However, taken individually it provides information for both distribution and abundance on an annual basis. A further 54 species were noted during survey work in 1995, these included Common Buzzard in 10 squares, Hobby, Quail, Bam Owl, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Nightingale, Pied Flycatcher and Twite. The inclusion of Buzzard in this list and its distribution over 11% of the coverage bears out the very real and welcome expansion of this bird's breeding range in our area. In terms of abundance alone, Starling is top of the list for 1995. As well as being the most numerous species, the bird also shows an 11% increase over the comparison period (Table 2). It will be interesting to plot the course of what may prove to be a healthy breeding population of this species and fuel thoughts that the noticeable decline in winter flocks and roosts is down to diminishing numbers of continental immigrants entering the country over this period. Table 2 gives a comparison of change in abundance over the 74 squares counted in both 1994 and 1995. While this one year time period is far too short for definite conclusions, the table gives a clear insight into the accuracy of change on a year-by- year basis that will be of invaluable importance in the longer term. However, there are some comparisons in Table 2 that clearly support evidence that has already been compiled. Several of the species currently undergoing declines nationally show a similar decrease in our Region over this period. These include: Lapwing (down 30%), Skylark (down 11%), Tree Sparrow (down 22%), Bullfinch (down 41%), Yellowhammer (down 17%) and Reed Bunting (down 39%). All of these birds are closely associated with farmland and reflect the very real problem we have with this particular habitat. Thankfully it is not all bad news, many species show a healthy increase in their numbers both locally and nationally but whatever their circumstances may be, let us hope that the continued support for the BBS will ensure that we are able to closely monitor their presence. J R Winsper WMBC Research Committee Chairman and BTO Regional Organiser for Birmingham and the West Midlands. 16

BTO Breeding Bird Survey Results Table I. Tabic 2. 1995 Results 1994/95 Comparison Total No. Sq. % 1994 1995 % Change Grey Heron 56 35 38 40 45 13 Canada Goose 190 27 29 140 126 -10 Mallard 256 51 55 223 211 -5 Sparrawhawk 18 16 17 12 15 25 Kestrel 39 32 34 27 28 4 Red-legged Partridge 28 13 14 34 23 -32 Pheasant 154 51 55 132 116 -12 Moorhen 74 42 45 46 63 37 Coot 48 14 15 32 35 9 Lapwing 109 23 25 147 103 -30 Curlew 35 14 15 55 24 -56 Black-headed Gull 39 13 14 61 32 -48 Lesser Black-becked Gull 61 16 17 43 58 35 Feral Pigeon 385 28 30 299 345 15 Stock Dove 106 34 37 91 98 8 Wood pigeon 2112 93 100 1652 1614 -2 Collared Dove 396 70 75 339 310 -9 Cuckoo 76 44 47 64 63 -2 Common Swift 624 53 57 375 531 42 Green Woodpecker 49 31 33 21 42 100 Great Spotted Woodpecker 54 33 35 34 42 24 Skylark 308 65 70 263 234 -11 Swallow 426 62 67 357 290 -19 House Martin 367 45 48 271 309 14 Yellow Wagtail 29 16 17 27 27 0 Pled Wagtail 98 56 60 53 76 43 Wren 920 87 94 699 746 7 Dunnock 379 83 89 286 299 5 Robin 698 91 98 512 590 IS Blackbird 1280 92 99 1069 1060 -1 Song Thru9h 168 64 69 165 139 -16 Mlstle Thrush 90 50 54 111 70 -37 Lesser Whltethroat 15 12 13 32 13 -59 Common Whltethreat 140 50 54 130 126 -3 Garden Warbler 27 16 19 22 21 -5 Blackcap 151 58 62 105 124 18 Chlffchaff 134 54 58 106 113 7 Willow Warbler 232 62 67 159 202 27 Goldcrest 34 12 13 26 27 4 Long-tailed Tit 168 49 53 84 148 76 Coal Tit 47 20 22 38 40 5 Blue Tit 688 90 97 830 778 -6 Great Tit 433 85 91 421 374 -11 Nuthatch 20 9 10 17 19 12 Treecreeper 41 11 12 34 41 21 Jay 58 28 30 59 55 -7 Magpie 532 86 92 451 437 -3 Jackdaw 360 51 55 416 278 -33 Rook 633 38 41 863 471 -47 Carrion Crow 952 90 97 779 787 1 Starling 2813 85 91 2120 2347 11 House Sparrow 1467 74 80 1106 1129 2 Tree Sparrow 33 10 11 37 29 -22 Chaffinch 989 89 96 764 800 5 Greenfinch 520 72 77 413 433 5 Goldfinch 156 44 47 110 115 5 Linnet 301 54 58 215 267 24 Bullfinch 62 31 33 87 51 -41 Yellowhammer 295 62 67 299 247 -17 Reed Bunting 29 16 17 41 25 -39 17

Classified Notes The sequence of species followed is that advocated by Birding World (Complete List of the Birds of the Western Palearctic 1991). The English names are those in popular use at the time of writing. Records of distinctive subspecies are listed seperately immedi- ately after the commonly occurring race, their commonly used English names appearing in italics. All records of species on the official British and Irish List (i.e. in Categories A-C) appear in the main section, even if suspected of being of captive origin. All other records (including Category D species) appear under Exotica; these mainly refer to escapes from avicultural collections. In the case of hybrids the species listed first was 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 they have appeared in out of the previous ten years, i.e. not including the current year. The average arrival and departure dates given for migrants are based on first and last dates (excluding freaks) shown in the Annual Reports up to 1995. Figures in brackets denote the number of years on which the averages are based. A list of contributors to these notes appears at the back of the Report.

The following status categories have been used: Very rare = fewer than ten records ever. Rare = ten or more records but less than annual (recorded in fewer than nine out of the last ten years). Less than annual breeding species. 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 R. River CES = Constant Effort Site Res = Reservoir CP = Country Park SF = Sewage Farm GC = Golf Course STW = Sewage Treatment Works GP = Gravel Pit(s) UP = Urban Park NP = Nature Park WP = Water Park NR = Nature Reserve 18

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Red-Throated Diver (John Teasdale)

Warks The previous three years has seen an increase in records to about three per annum, so three records involving four birds fits in well with this pattern. Two were at Draycote on January 5th RCM, followed by singles at Dosthill on December 23rd-26th IB, SMH, DWJetal. and Earlswood Lakes on 28th-31st J AC, SMH et ai. Worcs The adult at Larford from 1994 remained until January 28th SMWetal., when it was seen to fly off north. It arrived at Bittell later that day where it stayed until February 10th GJM et al. Staffs A first-winter at Blithfield from December 17th to at least 30th ESC, PDH.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica Rare winter visitor (6/10). Warks One at Draycote on January 7th RCM. Worcs A juvenile at Larford on January 20th-21st SMW et al., joined the Red- throated Diver already present. This was the first to be reported in the county since 1985.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Scarce winter visitor. No records, the first blank year since 1988.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Dosthill 5 11 14 - - - - 34 - 46 7 9 Draycote 3 - 1 2 3 - - 1 5 7 5 7 Bishampton Vale Pool 2 2 4 6 - 3 9 7 10 11 12 7 Pirton - 3 9 4 2 5 10 14 37 35 12 4 Upton Warren 1 1 6 10 10 18 20 37 30 4 3 - Westwood 1 2 5 7 2 1 - 4 4 5 3 1 19

Warks Breeding pairs reported from: Alvecote, Charlecote, Coombe, Hunningham, Lighthome Quarry, Lower Radbourn and Packington (two), with pairs present at several other regular sites during the spring. Among the larger counts were 12 at Coton on March 2nd, 14 at Alvecote on 19th and 13 at Ladywalk on December 3 Ist. Worcs Bred at Bishampton Vale Pool (five-six broods), Broome Pool, Kinsham GP and Upton Warren, where in a particularly good breeding season five pairs produced at least six broods. Also recorded at Beckford, Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick, British Camp Res, Grafton Mill, Grimley, Larford, Little Witley, Lower Moor, New Pool, Oakley Pool and Wilden. One immature met an untimely end, being found dead beneath power lines near Hartlebury on August 21st. Staffs Poorly reported. Two pairs bred at both Barton GP and Kettlebrook, with breeding suspected at Betley Mere and Rownall Pond. Belvide held a peak of four during June-July, while three was the highest count at Chasewater (on September 24th) with no breeding pairs there for the first time in several years. Reports came from ten further sites, mainly of single birds. W Mid Breeding pairs noted at: Edgbaston Park, Fens Pools (two), Meriden GP (three), Netherton Hill (Dudley canal), Oldbury (two, on canal), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two), Somers Road GP, Stubber's Green (several) and Wyken Slough. Some high autumn counts included eight at Stubber's Green on August 18th, 20 at Fens Pools during September-October, 17 at Meriden GP on September 3rd, 12 at Sheepwash UP on October 1st and 19 along the canal in Valley Park on November 26th. Reports from four further locations outside the breeding season.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Alvecote 9 10 22 19 19 19 17 e 7 11 4 7 Coombe 10 - 10 13 16 16 11 8 10 13 15 3 Dosthill/Kingsbury 33 SO 58 - 29 15 42 55 26 32 17 30 •rayeote 180 136 101 86 68 75 70 37 62 74 136 144 Bittell 10 22 44 18 16 18 18 22 16 18 12 1 Bredon's Hardwick - 5 16 11 25 7 10 16 20 12 6 Hewell Park - - 8 6 - - - 5 2 - - Lartord S 3 3 2 2 4 - - - 2 3 4 Upton Warren 2 5 6 10 8 10 5 7 5 5 4 2 Westwood 1 2 4 6 4 4 4 9 13 20 14 1 Aqualate 6 7 15 20 31 30 29 30 41 SS 2 0 Barton GP - - 4 7 10 10 13 22 - - 6 - Belvide 20 26 38 36 47 30 10 5 12 34 34 37 Blilhfield 33 6 28 - - - 200 - - - - Chasewater 48 36 39 36 34 35 29 29 33 19 15 23 Tlttesworth 2 7 8 8 6 9 7 4 3 3 - 2 Westport 6 5 3 1 3 2 4 8 7 9 9 10 Netherton Res 1 5 4 4 5 2 6 2 1 1 2 6 Sandwell Valley 12 22 32 6 - - - 3 3 2 2 6 Warks Pairs bred at: Alvecote (three), Brandon (five, but only two successful), Charlecote, Coombe (eight, some failed), Ladywalk, Middleton, Packington 20

(three), Whittleford Park (Nuneaton) and Wormleighton Res. At other sites, 69 at Shustoke was the best count. Worcs Breeding pairs at: Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool (two), Bittell (two), Bredon's Hardwick (two), Church Lench, Grimley, Hewell Park, Kinsham GP, Lower Moor (four, at least two successful), Upton Warren (two, both unsuccessful) and Westwood (two). Also recorded at Cofton Res, Little Witley, New Pool, Pirton, Tardebigge Res, Trimpley Res and Wilden. Staffs Breeding pairs at: Aqualate (three), Barton GP, Belvide (two), Blithfield, Chasewater (ten), Chillington, Doxey (three), Hanley Festival Park, Holly- bush, Kettlebrook, Shugborough, Tixall and Trentham Gardens. No breeding at Knypersley Res this year due to low water levels. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from: Brookvale Park, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston Park, Edgbaston Res, Fens Pools (five), Lifford Res, Meriden GP, Netherton Res, Sandwell Valley (three), Sheepwash UP (five), Stubber's Green, Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough (one, rearing two broods). Displaying birds also noted at Berkswell Hall.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant, rare though increasing in summer. Warks At Draycote, a juvenile from October 22nd-31st DJS et ai. was thought to have later died after becoming entangled in fishing line. One at Dosthill from November 12th-December 7th ARD et ai. Worcs A juvenile seen intermittently at Bredon's Hardwick from September 20th- October 18th SJH et al., was thought to have spent much of the time on the adjacent R.Severn. Staffs An adult was at Chasewater on February 26th GE. A bird in summer plumage on the R.Tame at Croxall on April 23rd DJA, ESC was relocated at Alrewas GP from 28th-May 3rd ESC et al. A first-winter was at Belvide from November 2nd-28th FCG, SN et al.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The poorest showing since 1989 when there were no records at all. Staffs A bird in winter plumage at Belvide on December 8th SN.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor, has bred. Rare in winter. More winter records than usual. Warks Two-four different birds appear to have been involved in records from Dosthill and Kingsbury during January-March. One on Swann Pool, Kingsbury from January 8th-20th PC, MFO et al. appeared to be different to another there on February 1st-2nd PC, MJK et al. Also during this period one was on Broomy- croft Pool, Kingsbury on January 22nd JJB, with possibly the same bird on the adjacent Canal Pool from 29th-February 4th SMH, BLK et al. This bird presumably then moved to Dosthill from 9th-27th JAA et al., with perhaps another there from March 4th-22nd PC, PDH et al. Elsewhere in the county, an adult in summer plumage was at Draycote on April 1st RCM, with a 21

juvenile there on September 9th PDH. At the end of the year, one appeared at Colon on December 9th IB, DWJ, 17th SMH and 29th JAA. Staffs One at Aqualate on January 22nd FCG, was followed by a bird in breeding plumage at Blithfield from May 14th-22nd ESC et at. Single birds were then at Blithfield on September 20th GJE and (possibly the same) at Gailey from 23rd-26th ESC, GJE, with another at Belvide on November 17th-18th SN.

Gahnet Sula bassana Scarce passage migrant and storm driven vagrant. Worcs An adult found dead at Kinsham on January 2nd DO had been ringed as a pullus on Great Saltee, County Wexford on July 1st 1988. A second-year bird was seen at Larford on May 29th MHB. Two records in the county in one year is exceptional.

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Bred Staffs in 1981-2. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Coombe/Diaycote 459 300 120 86 31 7 4 18 49 156 336 372 Kingsbury 45 42 24 28 15 14 - 28 42 3 76 7 Ladywalk 40 47 51 7 3 1 Bittell - 2 - 6 7 2 2 5 5 2 - 1 Bredon's Hardwick 27 - 32 34 10 1 4 13 16 27 20 53 Larford 10 2 1 3 - - - - - 1 3 8 Pirton 4 2 10 2 - 2 - 3 3 3 Upton Warren 3 3 3 5 7 1 2 25 17 7 17 16 Westwood 66 63 54 43 12 1 8 2 16 37 42 50 Aqualate 45 23 52 29 12 1 2 5 9 10 11 12 Barton GP 3 5 16 14 12 11 10 9 - 5 - - Belvide 18 33 12 4 6 1 2 0 13 50 74 108 Blithfield 8 200 68 - 132 - Chasewater 25 17 5 1 1 1 1 - 1 10 55 Chlllington 35 35 35 15 - 1 4 10 5 - 35 35 Gailey 17 44 2 0 0 0 - 3 6 8 5 Tlttesworth 4 5 7 3 3 2 2 20 2 3 4 6 Sandwell Valley 2 2 3 8 1 2 4 3 2 6 - 1

Sheepwash UP - - - 1 - - - 1 10 1 3 1 Warks Still on the increase at Draycote with the January count easily setting another Regional record. However last years caveat regarding underestimating this population, which commutes between here and the roost site at Coombe, still applies. By contrast, numbers in the Tame valley seem to have fallen this year. Smaller counts came from a number of other sites, mainly in the northern half of the county; but odd birds are increasingly appearing in the far south including up to 21 at a new lake at Abbots Salford. Worcs Other notable counts included 15 over Ombersley on January 18th and 12 over Abberton on October 5th, with smaller numbers at Bishampton Vale Pool, Beckford, Kinsham, Lower Moor, New Pool and Strensham. Staffs No information was received from the long-established Gailey roost, though roosting was reported at Aqualate. At Belvide, a bird ringed on the Solway was seen on February 4th, while on September 25th another seen had come from France. 22

W Mid Reported from a further 12 localities, mainly in spring and autumn but involving all months bar November. Most reports concerned one-five birds, though a flock of 35 flying south-east at Wyken Slough on January 30th was notable, as were 17 over Park Lime Pits on April 5th and eight over Amblecote on October 16th. Almost all records still involved birds in flight, although up to three were fishing fairly regularly at Wyken Slough from August 31st-October 3rd, a new departure at that site.

'Continental' Cormorant P. c. sinensis Presumably greatly under-recorded. Warks The only records involved singles at Brandon on March 10th, Coombe on 11th, Draycote on 22nd and Kingsbury on April 23rd.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A scarce visitor in all months, with occasional autumn and winter influxes. Warks The two immatures, originally seen in 1992, remained at Draycote until at least January 8th after which one was found dead. The other bird, now in adult plumage, was present for the rest of the year many observers and was joined by new arrivals on April 29th and September 20th JW. W Mid Single immatures at Netherton Res on May 27th CJT and Wyken Slough on September 27th JJB. 1994 Addendum W Mid One at Fens Pools early on March 1st SE, later flew off west.

Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Warks A bird first seen at Brandon on June 5th remained there until the end of the year BMCG. Although very elusive it was seen a total of fifteen times in all. This appears to be the second ever June arrival in the Region but the length of stay was unprecedented. More typical were singles at Kingsbury on November 22nd PC and Ladywalk on December 31 st SLC et al. Staffs One seen at Belvide on January 20th SN et al. W Mid One reported found alive at Fens Pools on November 29th with two broken legs, possibly caused by overhead cables, had to be destroyed as 'nothing could be done' per MDJ.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Rare spring vagrant (3/10). The 13th Regional record, the last being at Brierley Hill, West Mids in May 1994. It is interesting to note that eleven out of twelve arrival dates of modem (all since 1971) records fall during the period April 16th-June 17th, with no fewer than seven during May. This conforms with the national picture and clearly shows that most records are likely to involve overshooting continental birds rather than escapes or feral birds as was once thought. Warks An adult flushed from canal-side vegetation at Kingsbury on May 24th PC was the third county record, with previous birds at Ladywalk in 1987 and Coombe in 1981. 23

1994 Corrigendum

WMids The Brierley Hill bird was the 12th Regional record and nof the 11th as stated.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta A rare though increasing visitor, mainly in spring and summer (5/10). Warks One seen briefly at Dosthill on June 26th JRW. Staffs Single birds at Belvide on May 16th SN et al., and Blithfield from July 19th-21st ESC, JCT. 1994 Corrigendum Warks The bird at Ladywalk in August was present on 14th-15th only and not from 4th. Great White Egret Egretta alba Very rare vagrant (1/10). One of the highlights of 1995, this was only the second Regional record. The previous bird at Brandon on July 8th 1992 was present for only an hour and a half so this bird was well twitched! Warks The West Mids bird (see below) was seen at The Somers on July 27th AHs and at the small pool at Packwood House on 28th per SMH. W Mid A splendid adult frequented the Meriden GP complex and adjoining parts of Warks (see above) from July 24th-August 18th at least NPB, AHs, SMH et al.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident. Heronries continue to be poorly documented away from Staffs. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Draycote 8 7 10 10 23 28 36 41 35 16 16 12 Par* Lime Pits 2 1 1 1 2 2 5 5 3 3 4 4 Sandwell Valley 8 6 3 3 4 3 5 B 17 20 12 12 Warks About 50 pairs bred at the Coombe heronry as last year. No information from Ragley Park or other heronries, though a pair were seen at a nest near Long Marston, a new locality, in July. Other maxima included eight at Alvecote, 11 at Brandon, 30 at Ladywalk, ten at The Somers and 12 at Wootton Pool. Worcs The single central heronry remains occupied. The largest counts were 34 at Grimley on July 22nd, 25 at Bittell on August 10th, 12 at Westwood on 16th and 14 at Upton Warren on September 10th. Staffs Heronry counts appear to be holding up well, with 51 at Aqualate, 102 in Bagots Wood, one at Checkhill Bog, 13 at Eccleshall Castle, 17 at Enville Hall, 45 at Gailey, nine at Hazelstrine, 26 in Longsdon Wood, 26 at Pendeford Mill NR, 61 at Tamworth and 25 at Trentham Gardens. Away from heronries birds were reported from 16 areas, with 30 at Blithfield in July the largest count, while 29 at Tlttesworth on October 29th was a site record. A bird watched in a set-aside field at Chillington Farm for a period of fifty minutes was observed to consume one small mammal, seven earthworms and eight unidentified invertebrates in thirty-three minutes RF. 24

W Mid There were at least 16 occupied nests in the Berkswell heronry, double the last count of eight in 1988. A reasonably widespread species reported from 16 additional localities, with maxima of seven in the Valley Park area on May 2nd and eight at Sheepwash UP during autumn/winter. One noted standing on a Dorridge roof watching a neighbours' pond on January 3rd.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Very rare vagrant (3/10). The seventh acceptable Regional record (six of these have been since 1981) and the third for Worcs. The last was at Upton Warren in that county in May 1993. Worcs One observed at Feckenham as it circled overhead and then drifted north on July 18th GAF.

Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (5/10).

Spoonbill (Phil Jones)

The first records since 1992. Staffs An adult in breeding plumage at Blithfield on June 18th AB, ESC, AGJ, was followed by a first-summer bird at Handsacre Flashes on July 11th ESC, GNJ. This bird moved to Blithfield next day where it remained until August 27th ESC, JCTetal.

Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N O Alvecote 6 10 17 13 67 80 56 34 18 24 11 20 Draycote 12 8 6 3 43 47 68 75 77 88 104 108 Kingsbury area 61 65 60 - 15 56 - 99 96 117 57 43 Bishampton Vale Pool 3 3 13 6 10 4 7 5 7 17 16 17 25

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Brecon's Hardwick - - 11 - 19 16 16 - - 12 - - Pirton 14 8 12 7 S 6 6 17 31 42 63 35 Upton Warren 4 9 5 8 4 4 5 2 2 3 5 4 Westwood 5 4 2 a 4 2 2 3 3 3 3 8 Aqualulu a •i U 2 3 23 24 3 2 0 11 Barton 4 4 7 4 5 37 13 23 22 27 18 V Belvide 10 10 11 11 50 83 91 87 90 3 7 17 Blith field 8 4 2 - - 112 102 79 7 2 Chasewater 41 40 47 43 47 37 54 73 67 47 54 6? Croxall 19 19 22 97 62 30 28 36 55 30 23 21 Elford 159 179 149 21 28 82 94 87 47 46 46 35 Hill Rldware 14 19 10 8 8 19 8 1 17 25 23 11 Kettlebrook Lake 6 6 6 6 8 16 17 16 14 14 14 13 Kings Bromley 2 - 19 3 4 5 2 - 10 5 2 7 Tamworth (R.Anker) 33 48 43 51 38 - 35 42 - - Westport 91 100 99 96 102 110 114 103 67 34 35 38 Whitemoor Hay 100 166 80 Netherton Res 6 8 6 5 5 4 4 4 3 7 10 10 Sandwell Valley - 14 16 22 16 ------15 Wyken Slough 16 16 13 17 19 18 10 11 14 9 2 2 Warks Pairs bred successfully at: Alvecote, Bedworth Slough, Brandon (two), Coombe, Coton (two), Dosthill, Ladywalk, Long Itchington, Napton Res, Welford-on-Avon and Wellesboume. The increasingly large flock on the R.Avon at Stratford totalled 80 on February 15th. Worcs Pairs bred at: Ashmoor Common, Bishampton Vale Pool, Eckington, Lower Moor, Pirton, Strensham, Tibberton, Throckmorton, Wamdon and Westwood. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Belvide (two), Betley Mere, Chasewater (five), Doxey (four), Ford Green, Hanley Festival Park, Hanley Forest Park, Kettlebrook Lake (three) and Park Hall CP Elsewhere 47 at Wychnor on April 9th was the best count. A bird ringed in Dublin in 1992, which summered at Belvide and was later seen at Chasewater in October, was only the second from the Dublin study group to be recorded in Britain. Also at Chasewater, a total of 124 different colour-ringed birds were recorded during the year. WMid Breeding pairs at: Brockmoor (on the Staffs and Worcs canal), Bumble Hole, Fens Pools, Netherton Hill (Dudley canal), Sandwell Valley (three), Sheep- wash UP, Smethwick (Birmingham-Wolverhampton canal), Stoke Floods, Stubber's Green, Sutton Park (Longmoor and Wyndley Pools) and Wyken Slough (two). Records also came from a further nine localities, with ten at Handsworth Park in May and 15 at Fens Pools in September the largest counts.

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianus Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Recently declining. Average: October 21st (6) - March 24th (6) Warks An immature first seen at Dosthill in December 1994 remained in the area until at least March 26th, after which it began consorting with the largely feral herd of Mute Swans in the Tamworth (Staffs) area. It became extremely approachable and was last seen at Alvecote on May 22nd. Nine adults were noted at Coton on February 23rd and two at Draycote on March 8th. In the autumn, two were at Dosthill on November 2nd, followed by singles at Dray- cote and over Fenny Compton on 5th. A small influx at the end of December 26

brought nine to Dosthill on 28th and then to Coton/Lea Marston on 29th, a party of four visiting both Draycote and Jubilee Pools on 30th, with five at the former site on 31 st. Worcs The worst year since 1980. Two adults at Westwood on January 3rd, 11 at Longdon Marsh on 29th, two at Bredon's Hardwick on February 17th and five at Bittell on 23rd were the only reports. Staffs A single immature (also noted in Warks) roamed the Tame valley from Dosthill north GP up to Tamworth from January 1 st-April 11th at least, before last being seen at Borrowpit Lake on May 1st. Four adults were present at Elford from January 2nd-February 19th, with four more at Blithfield on January 5th and again at Whitemoor Hay from 21st-29th. Single adults at both Blithfield and Westport on March 4th wearing blue neck collars, had been ringed in the Lower Pechora delta, Russia. The first returning bird appeared at Blithfield on October 29th, with two there on November 1st, one on 2nd and two from December 13th-17th. Four flew over Doxey on November 6th, followed by six at Croxall on 13th, a single at Belvide on December 4th with eight there on 22nd. Two also returned to Whitemoor Hay on 22nd increasing to 11 by 26th, with probably the same party at nearby Croxall from 24th-28th and a peak of 30 there on 29th-30th.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant, mainly in Staffs. Also recent feral visitor. Free-flying feral birds continue to cloud the true picture and this looks set to continue, with rumours of feral breeding and even hybridisation with Mute Swan in the Birmingham areal Warks An adult at BAD Kineton from July 1 st-4th PHA, MGW was presumably of feral origin. Worcs Two adults at Bredon's Hardwick on November 3rd SJH, SMW. Staffs An adult at Blithfield on October 29th ESC was the only record. W Mid The two wandering adults which escaped from Cotwall End in 1991 presumably account for most if not all the following records. Single adults were in Sandwell Valley on February 18th SVB, Sheepwash UP on March 25th AGW, DW and Lifford Res from July 8th-September 29th PAC. One was reported intermittently at Fens Pools from March 30th-September 9th PWG. Two flew south over Handsworth Wood on September 27th PWL.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor, but rare away from Staffs. Also scarce feral visitor. Warks The only potentially wild birds were four at Draycote on December 17th. Singles of unknown origin were at Alvecote on January 8th, Kingsbury on February 1 st and Ladywalk on April 26th. Staffs A probable feral bird was with Canada Geese at Belvide from January 10th- February 18th, with three circling there on January 29th and two parties totalling 206 moving north-west on 30th SN. Two at Rudyard from January 30th-March 19th WJL etal., were also seen at Tittesworth occasionally during 27

February 10th-March 12th PAW. Singles were at Doxey on January 2nd MDB, Alrewas GP on February 4th ESC, Blithfield with Whitefronts from 5th- March 15th GIG, PDH etal., Dosthill north on February 9th JAA and Aqualate on 19th FCG. A bird at Tittesworth on April 23rd PAW may have been a late migrant, though another with Canada Geese at Blithfield on June 16th and on August 7th and 16th was more obviously feral. One at Kingswood on October 24th GE, was followed at Tittesworth by flocks of 12 moving south-east on November 12th and 30 south on 18th PAW. Singles were seen at Chasewater on November 26th GE and at Belvide with Canada Geese from December 4th-20th BL. Finally, eight flew east over Baldstones on December 10th NC and another eight stayed at Croxall from 16th-26th ICW, MY et al. W Mid A single bird in Sandwell Valley from December 10th-31 st SVB was possibly of feral origin.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor. A notable influx during December. Warks A good year. At Draycote, four on November 12th RCM were followed by a party of 12 present from December 9th-30th REH, DJS et al., but with an additional 55 settling briefly on 17th RCM before moving on. Elsewhere, three were seen flying over Ladywalk on November 30th and December 1st per SLC, 26 were at Coton on December 26th-27th JEF, PDH, SMH, and two at Dosthill on 28th PC. Staffs At Blithfield one from January 2nd-4th, was followed by 11 on 11th, decreasing to eight on 13th ESC. Nine were then present here from January 15th- March 15th ESC etal. A bird was also present in the Tame valley at Drayton Bassett from February 9th-18th JAA. After a feral bird at Brocton NR in early September, there was a good December influx. The first were four over Westport on December 4th, followed by 13 landing briefly there on 7th WJL. Seven at Croxall on 16th ICW, MY were also seen at Alrewas GP and Catholme. There were eight at Croxall from 22nd-26th ESC, MY, increasing to 23 on 27th-28th PDH, MY and 24 on 29th-30th ESC, PDH, which also visited nearby Whitemoor Hay.

Grey goose sp. Anser sp. Warks A party of five (not Greylags) pitched down onto a small pool at Packington on March 22nd for a short time before flying off north.

Greylag Goose Anser anser Frequent feral resident mainly in north and central Warks, though increasing and spreading elsewhere. Warks Five pairs reared at least 22 young at Brandon, a record breeding season there. Three pairs raised ten young at Coombe, while single pairs bred at Coton and unsuccessfully at Ladywalk. The wintering feral population continues to increase, with maxima of 110 at Ladywalk on January 2nd, 61 at Coombe on March 4th, 132 at Dosthill on November 26th and 90 at Brandon on December 14th. 28

Worcs An increase in records with reports from: Beckford, two on September 19th; Bishampton Vale Pool, singles on several dates during August-September and December; Bittell, seven on May 1st; Uredoii's Hardwick, two on Decem- ber 10th; Larford, three on April 8th; Mill Pond, singles on several dates during spring and summer, with two on September 29th; Pirton Pool, three on May 6th and two on September 10th; Upton Warren, singles on April 12th and 20th, and September 8th; and Wilden, two flew west on May 9th. Staffs Four pairs bred at Trentham Gardens, producing 20 young. Away from this site, records came from: Belvide, one on February 14th, three on April 20th, two on May 1st, one on June 5th and 11th and two on August 18th; Blithfield, one on February 5th, four on July 26th and two from Augusl 20th-26th; Branston WP, 12 on December 10th; Brocton NR, two on June 7th-9th and one in early September; Chasewater, three on April 29th and up to four from September 9th-14th; Dosthill north GP, 45 on December 24th; Rudyard, one on April 11th; Tlttesworth, two on December 2nd-3rd; and Westport, two on April 3rd and September 14th, with 15 on November 2nd. WMid A pair bred in Sandwell Valley for the first time, successfully raising a single youngster, with all three remaining to the year's end. Another pair with three non-flying juveniles were on Dunstall Park Lake on June 11th, but sadly one of the latter was found two days later, the rest having departed. They may have been the four flying over here on August 11th, while one or two were seen on a further nine dates from March-September again mainly in flight. A pair with seven three-quarter grown juveniles at Somers Road GP on July 29th were probably the pair present at nearby Meriden GP during May. Else- where, there were three at Wyken Slough on March 23rd and two on 31 st, and three at Sheepwash UP on April 17th.

Snow Goose Branta caerulescens Scarce feral visitor. Has this goose really become so rare in the Region? Staffs An adult with a damaged wing stayed at Chasewater from December 17th-31 st, the first at that site. Canada Goose Branta canadensis Common and increasing feral resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Alvecote SO 93 31 23 - 29 41 10 128 136 245 169 Brandon 254 97 106 109 83 112 120 255 380 18 98 307 Chesterton 51 150 130 108 185 189 142 205 3 190 200 Coombe 155 - 250 107 210 353 386 131 6 330 31? 436 Draycote 200 118 42 28 18 17 36 878 604 148 240 224 Kingsbury area 305 325 207 - 250 194 - 83 75 366 406 107 Bishampton Vale Pool 25 - 4 - 6 - - 151 181 69 101 27 Bittell 100 26 15 13 30 38 62 480 169 221 157 141 Bredon's Hardwick - - 20 - - - - 170 76 60 - - Grimley ------70 300 - 293 - - Larford - 45 28 38 46 30 - - - - 84 Pirton 80 72 95 58 16 356 352 205 425 128 81 46 Upton Warren 60 80 61 72 59 57 68 125 47 70 - 200 Westwood 20 30 - - 24 74 43 8 243 349 370 424 29

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Aqualate 53 46 36 27 21 7 39 5 64 49 30 93 Barton 148 72 47 39 19 82 88 146 192 - 44 66 Belvide 180 148 118 74 52 127 150 202 224 170 120 160 Blithfield 94 36 7 - 694 428 500 219 750 Chasewater 9/ 4 2 24 18 17 7 19 242 303 38 i74 56 Chillington - 7 39 25 19 30 - - 11 - - - Croxall 396 264 143 80 99 233 346 215 309 422 472 395 Doxey - - - 14 - 100 97 300 - - 300 370 Elford 33 171 137 117 153 86 99 181 103 2 2 2 Kings Bromley 162 177 225 151 179 382 384 293 627 39 35 56 Rudyard 283 107 30 - - - - 296 - - - - Tittesworth 65 85 48 30 48 84 133 310 90 102 59 80 Westport 51 33 34 22 27 58 43 33 57 54 47 42 Sandwell Valley 340 - 250 - - 209 - 400 250 - - 340 Sheepwash UP 150 170 120 - - - 132 - 100 - - 310 Wyken Slough 127 160 14 16 12 21 35 120 177 174 53 60 Warks A common breeding bird throughout the county, though the only localities reporting more than five broods were Brandon (19), Coombe (20) and Ladywalk (six). Worcs Pairs bred at: Abberton, Aston Mill (three), Beckford (six), Bittell, Dodford, Grimley, Larford (three), Mill Pond (three), Upton Warren (15) and Wilden (two). Other significant flocks were 130 at Kinsham on September 9th, 380 at Beckford on 19th and 126 at Lenchford on November 19th. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Belvide (six), Croxall (five), Hanley Forest Park, Kettlebrook, Parkhall CP, Rownall Pond, R.Tame at Tamworth (two), Tittesworth and Trentham Park (seven). Among the larger counts, away from tabulated sites, were 220 at Brocton NR and 62 at Rickerscote in January, 70 at Pendeford Mill NR in February, 180 at Dosthill north GP in March, 71 at Rocester JCB Pools in July, 56 at Gailey in September, with 139 at Copmere and 73 at Great Haywood in October. W Mid Breeding pairs at: Fens Pools (one, the first successful breeding), Mushroom Green Marsh, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (over 40 young seen), Smethwick Hall Park (two), Stubber's Green (two), Sutton Park (at least three) and Victoria Park in Tipton (three). Other notable counts included 434 at Bartley in September and 157 at Smethwick Hall Park in January and November, with other flocks exceeding 100 at Dunstall Park, Handsworth Park and Hydes Road Pool (Wednesbury). The December count at Sheepwash UP was a record total for that site.

Todd's Canada Goose B. c. interior W Mid A bird resembling this large dark race was at Wyken Slough on August 2nd.

Tavemer's Canada Goose B. c. tavemeri Worcs Two at Wilden on March 12th.

Cackling Goose B. c. minima Worcs One at Beckford on September 19th.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon feral visitor. Warks A single at Dosthill on March 21st appeared to be very wary and was just 30

possibly of wild origin. Single birds were also seen at Ufton Fields on February 19th, Chesterton on March 26th, Brandon on April 20th and May 10th, and at Draycote on September 24th. Five unringed birds at Draycote from October 22nd-December 1 st, were assumed to be of feral origin by most observers, and these were joined by a sixth from October 30th-November 16th at least. Worcs Singles at: Bredon's Hardwick on January 1 st; Mill Pond from March 26th- 29th; Upton Warren on April 20th and May 29th, with two on July 9th; Beckford from May 17th-June 6th, with two there on September 19th and from November 19th-December 24th; and Kinsham on September 9th. Staffs Single birds at Doxey from January 22nd-February 11th and Dosthill north GP on March 18th, with a party of 14 at the JCB pools, Rocester on February 20th and three there on May 14th. Belvide held a single on April 20th and intermittently from June 3rd-July 24th when it was joined by a party of five. These six then remained until August 18th when one left, the five staying on to October 15th. Finally at Blithfield, up to three were present from August 3rd-26th, with singles on September 10th, 30th and October 5th, and then up to two from 8th-November 1st with three on October 29th. A party of 20 present there for twenty-thirty minutes on December 13th departed east, and may have been of wild origin. W Mid A single bird was present all year in Sandwell Valley. Four flew over Chad Valley, Edgbaston on November 17th, while singles were noted at Dunstall Park on April 5th, 25th-26th, 30th, May 1st and August 19th-23rd, and at Sheepwash UP (probably from Sandwell Valley) on December 28th and 30th.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Singles visited BAD Kineton on February 24th PHA and Draycote on October 6th RCM. Staffs Ten circled around Chillington Park for five minutes on October 1 st KA, and one was at Blithfield from December 7th-10th GJE etal. Anser/Branta hybrids Greylag x Canada Goose W Mid One in Sandwell Valley on May 20th and June 17th. Canada x Greylag Goose Worcs One at Throckmorton Tip on September 15th. W Mid One at Wyken Slough on August 31st.

Barnacle x Canada Goose Warks One at The Somers on June 4th. W Mid The bird from The Somers was seen at Wyken Slough on June 8th, and remarkably a bird with different markings was there on 13th. Barnacle x Bar-headed Goose Worcs Up to two at Beckford from April 23rd-June 3rd, with three on September 19th and again from November 19th-December 24th, during which period one also visited Bredon's Hardwick. 31

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Scarce feral visitor. Warks An adult at Draycote on December 17th.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Scarce feral visitor and possible rare vagrant.

Ruddy Shclduck (Phil Jones)

Warks A single bird, presumably the one from 1994, continued to tour the Tame valley. Once again there were differing opinions regarding its gender, with most observers opting for a male. After first appearing at Ladywalk on March 5th, it also visited Coton, Dosthill, Kingsbury and Middleton until at least May 27th many observers. A record from Alvecote on May 20th SMH was a little distant and could have involved a different bird. After a bird at Dosthill on July 2nd, there were again occasional records of a singleton at all Tame valley waters during October 1st-November27th many observers. Its appearance at Shustoke on November 22nd BLK was a first for that site. Staffs The presumably feral bird present intermittently at Blithfield with Canada Geese since 1992 was seen again here on February 11th JPM, March 1st JM and from July 2nd-December 27th ESC et at. W Mid A female at Stubber's Green from September 6th-24th GKN, PPN.

Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Frequent summer visitor, passage migrant and winter visitor. Also uncommon breeder, mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys of Staffs and north Warks. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Alvecote 18 4 18 14 14 2 5 Kingsbury area 12 12 15 18 18 12 9 - - - 1 2 Ladywalk 7 17 4 10 15 - - - - - 1 3 Bishampton Vale Pool 2 - 1 1 Bittell - 1 - - - - 1 - 1 1 - - Bredon's Hardwick 1 - 1 1 2 - - 4 - _ Larford 1 - - 2 - - - - 2 1 1 32

J F M A M J J A S O N D Uoton Warren - 5 1 2 - - - - 7 - _ 2 Westwood - 1 1 1 1 1 1 Alrewas - 2 2 2 2 2 _ Aqualate - - 2 3 5 5 5 - - - - - Barton 3 14 7 21 30 14 13 3 3 2 6 Belvide 2 9 1 2 5 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 Blithfleld 1 2 3 3 3 4 6 5 15 4 6 2 Branston - 14 15 12 10 ------Croxall - 2 2 2 6 6 2 - - 2

Warks Pairs bred at Aivecote (three), Coton and Dosthill. Again there was no breeding at Ladywalk, possibly due to a preoccupation with territorial behaviour from the 15 adults present during May. An interesting record from further south than usual involved a pair prospecting rabbit burrows at Coombe for the first two weeks in May. Birds return to breeding areas in January-February, so 17 at Draycote on February 15th and one at BAD Kineton (the only record from the far south) on 27th were probably such birds. Worcs Additional to those tabulated were four at Upton-on-Severn on January 7th, three at Longdon Marsh on February 5th, and one at Grimley on March 5th, with three there on September 2nd and one on 7th. Further singles at Strensham from August 13th-20th; Wilden from September 21st-24th, and on October 7th and 10th; Ryall on September 30th; and Kinsham from October 5th-November 12th. Staffs A breeding pair at Aqualate was the only one reported. Small numbers also recorded at: Chasewater, Dosthill north GP, Doxey, Elford, Fazeley, Hill Ridware, Kettlebrook Lake, Kings Bromley, Tittesworth and Westport. WMid A good series of records came from Sheepwash UP, with birds present on January 7th, 15th (two), February 27th, March 16th (two), April 27th, and on December 17th and 18th (two). Two present at Meriden GP on February 13th, March 12th and May 20th, with three on 21st. Other records came from: Bartley, two on March 22nd and May 12th; Castle Bromwich, one on floodwater by R.Tame on April 1st; Fens Pools, two flew east on April 2nd and one over on September 17th; and Netherton Res, two on March 11th and one on April 27th.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon but increasing feral resident and visitor. Warks A pair in Packington Park during April-May were regularly observed entering a nest hole, but the outcome was unknown. Worcs Most records were from the pools surrounding Bredon Hill, where single pairs bred at Beckford, Kemerton and Westmancote and a pair noted at Overbury on May 6th. Another cluster came from the Malvern area, where a female at Mill Pond from August 23rd was joined by a male in mid-October, whilst a pair were present at New Pool on November 28th, with two males and a female there on December 23rd. The only report away from these two areas was of a female at Bewdley on October 30th. Staffs The free-flying colony in Trentham Gardens first reported last year, held 15 on April 11th and 30 on December 21st. A female with three young were seen there on June 12th. A small population may also be established at Chillington, 33

where a pair noted on February 5th, were followed by a male on April 23rd, a pair on May 7th, a female on July 16th, with four there on September 3rd and eight on December 27th. At Pendeford Mill NR, two males were present from April 6th-20th with three males on 30th, whilst a female visited Tittesworth on September 26th and a pair were noted at Blithfield on October 22nd. WMid A pair were found walking across a pig field at Lodge Green, Meriden during a bird race on May 20th. A male was in Red House Park, Great Barr on June 10th-11th, followed by a female from June 14th-September 9th. Stubber's Green produced a male on September 8th and a pair on December 21st.

Wigeon Anas penelope Common winter visitor. Scarce in summer. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Colon/Kingsbury 200 71 98 - 2 - 8 - 169 400 422 627 Dosthill 460 485 182 20 2 - - 2 6 55 517 210 Draycote 337 176 377 11 2 - - 20 140 196 580 2000 Ladywalk 168 215 123 2 2 2 1 - - 33 127 270 Shustoke 5 175 122 ------37 Bishampton Vale Pool ------1 18 11 12 2 Bredon's Hardwick 550 - 100 7 2 - - 3 120 170 210 1150 Larford iu ------15 10 4 Pirton Pool 36 51 34 - - - 5 23 60 132 Upton Warren 4 3 - - - 3 11 10 5 15 Westwood 112 97 53 3 1 - - - 32 38 55 33 Aqualate 179 146 40 2 - - - - 2 3 23 42 Barton 450 380 250 80 - 1 0 1 20 87 287 Belvide 180 122 72 20 1 0 0 8 42 80 92 157 Blithfield 1975 1926 1562 - 2 2 2 12 50 100 221 - Croxall 584 563 331 9 1 2 - 4 74 286 549 Dosthill north 400 325 182 - - 3 200 - - Elford 24 44 - 6 - - - 2 6 152 66 Rudyard 2 10 13 - 1 - - - - 17 170 150 Tittesworth 436 320 165 28 - - - - 6 60 140 180 Sandwell Valley 32 35 29 - - - - 1 11 30 58 50 Warks The count of 2000 at Draycote during very cold weather on December 30th was a county record. Elsewhere, small numbers were seen occasionally on many waters, with maxima of 135 at Jubilee Pools and 30-40 at Alvecote, Charlecote and on a new pool at Avon Dassett. More unusual was a flock of 16 flying north over Bretford on September 24th. Worcs Several reports of flocks on floodwater in the early part of the year, the largest being 40 at Grimley on January 8th, 70 at Bredon's Norton on 22nd and 200 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th. Smaller numbers at Bittell, Hewell Park, Kinsham, Lower Moor, Mill Pond, Oakley Pool, Strensham, Trimpley Res and Wilden. Staffs Maxima at other sites included 100 at Doxey and 93 at Kings Bromley in January, 57 at Chillington in February, 42 at Chasewater in October, 50 at Little Wyrley in November, with smaller numbers at Betley Mere, Ford Green, Hill Ridware and Westport. WMid Elsewhere, 12 were at Stubber's Green on January 24th, with singles at Netherton Res on February 9th and 26th, Sheepwash UP on March 20th and 34

Fens Pools on April 22nd. Then slightly commoner from August-December, with UP to ten irregularly at Bartley, and one-three occasionally at Fens Pools, Netherton Res, Park Lime Pits, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough.

Gadwall Anas strepera Frequent and increasing winter visitor and uncommon breeding species. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Brandon 36 10 11 4 3 2 3 7 4 4 5 24 Coton/Kingsbury 42 24 15 3 3 2 1 - 25 67 22 125 Draycote S 5 11 4 2 1 12 16 33 35 51 180 Ladywalk 12 - 4 - - - 7 - - 25 30 40 Bishampton Vale Pool 4 5 3 2 - - 1 5 5 12 16 15 Larford 16 9 4 8 2 2 - - - 7 40 35 Pirton 12 20 17 - - - - 3 i1 2 5 8 Upton Warren - - - 2 1 2 - 1 4 3 2 2 Westwood 12 24 28 23 9 9 7 19 15 33 26 30 Wilden - - 1 4 4 - 2 - 2 2 - 3 Barton 4 3 3 2 3 4 - - 5 11 2 1 Belvide 3 10 25 30 18 25 - 73 49 6 6 5 BlithReld - 3 3 7 5 4 - 4 - 2 8 3 Chillington ------8 10 5 3 - - Croxall 2 ------4 - 10 31 Elton) 50 28 4 3 - - - 9 - 29 44 Warks Two broods were seen at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury and one at Draycote, these being the first proven breeding records since 1991. The count of 180 at Draycote on December 30th JJB sets a new Regional record. Small numbers were seen at a number of other sites during the year including Lower Radbourn, Napton Res and Wormleighton Res in the south of the county. Worcs A pair bred at Westwood, producing four ducklings. Small numbers outside the breeding season at Abberton, Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick and Lower Moor. Staffs Seven broods were reared at Belvide, where this is an increasingly successful breeding species. Elsewhere 48 were counted at Branston WP on November 7th, with small numbers of less than ten at: Chasewater, Doxey, Hill Ridware, Kings Bromley, Knighton Res, Rudyard, Tittesworth and West- port. W Mid The usual male was present at Fens Pools throughout the year, with a female also present on March 26th. In Sandwell Valley, birds were reported on April 6th (two), 9th, August 20th (two), September 9th (three) and October 13th. Two were seen at Bartley on April 4th, while in December there was one at Netherton Res on 10th, two there on 12th and a pair at Wyken Slough on 24th. 1994 Addendum Staffs At least five broods were hatched at Belvide, with 42 young reared per SJ. 1993 Corrigendum Staffs At least four broods at Belvide (not one as stated), with 22 young reared per SJ. 35

Teal Anas crecca crecca Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and a scarce, possibly now sporadic breeder. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Alvecote 1 7? 4? 9fi _ 1 - 30 71 115 101 Brandon 239 150 205 170 20 14 17 113 210 317 528 473 Dosthlll/Kingsbury 100 75 53 21 1 - 1 50 125 151 151 140 Draycote 319 145 110 14 - 2 42 180 130 180 320 Ladywalk 137 70 - 2 2 2 - - 55 280 454 Blttell 17 4 - - - - 2 10 3 3 8 14 Bredon's Hardwlck 60 - 18 7 - 5 26 20 - 40 Grimley 31 - 20 - - 3 18 50 66 55 - Upton Warren 93 40 49 28 - 8 11 96 110 125 105 150 Westwood 30 11 2 1 - - - 32 50 60 40 40 Wllden 42 75 5 11 - - - 16 38 52 54 67 Aqualate 353 14 5 - - - - 2 5 13 0 157 Barton 154 400 186 32 1 7 15 87 160 114 258 233 Belvide 685 250 50 30 3 9 26 378 512 308 535 800 Blithfield 1340 227 30 - - 9 30 563 159 255 264 - Chasewater 9 12 31 46 74 69 43 Croxall 781 297 213 42 - 2 - 12 119 71 274 Doxey 257 508 - - - 12 2 - 40 - 180 - Elford 91 41 4 - 4 - 6 37 101 72 Hill Rldware 19 56 39 8 - - - 8 105 113 111 38 Kings Bromley 97 - 39 11 - - - - 1 - 2 31 Rudyard / 2U ------210 300 Tlttesworth 30 6 2 15 6 6 0 20 50 80 126 110 Sandwell Valley 46 40 32 19 - 4 2 25 25 39 20 70 Sheepwash UP 56 60 50 15 - 1 2 4 20 20 30 80 Warks No breeding records although May and June records came from several tabulated sites, and four pairs were present at Baginton Lagoons. The only count from the latter (an important wintering site) this year was 100 on March 31st, while smaller flocks were fairly widespread. Worcs As is often the case floodwater produced some good counts, with maxima of 200 at Clevelode on February 1st, 400 at Longdon Marsh on 5th, 52 at Guarlford in mid-month, and 120 at Lower Moor on December 31st. Smaller numbers noted at: Bishampton Vale Pool, Broadway, Hewell Park, Holt, Kinsham, Larford, Mill Pond, Pirton and Strensham. Staffs Three pairs bred at Doxey. Small numbers also recorded at: Betley Mere, Chillington, Copmere, Ford Green, Goldsitch Moss, Hanch Res, Little Wyrley, Pendeford Mill NR and Westport. At Chasewater, higher numbers than usual were present during the autumn. W Mid The December count at Sheepwash UP was the highest ever there. Maxima elsewhere included 27 in Goscote Valley in January, up to 20 at Meriden GP at both ends of the year, 11 at Stubber's Green in March and November, and nine at Fens Pools in December. One-four birds were also reported from Bartley, Dunstall Park Lake, Netherton area, Parkes Hall Pool and Wyken Slough.

Green-winged Teal A. c. carolinensis Very rare vagrant (4/10). Only the sixth and seventh records of the North American race, with three previously coming from Warks and one each from Staffs and Worcs; the latter 36

being the most recent, at Bredon's Hardwick in December-January 1992/3. Staffs A drake was at Blithfield from March 26th-29th AJB et al. Another appeared at Rudyard on December 8th AB, before moving to I ittesworth when Hudyara froze over on 10th BH, JO, PAW, SW. This bird subsequently returned to Rudyard, before being last seen at Tittesworth on 20th PAW.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Alvecote 21 38 39 49 - 47 85 144 89 119 39 320 Brandon 262 74 37 25 63 163 162 141 146 100 76 200 Chesterton 100 - 38 43 44 59 58 38 200 185 130 300 Coombe 155 - - 35 71 194 312 260 165 198 245 507 Draycote 400 380 140 80 75 255 218 579 683 533 480 1000 Kingsbury area 100 116 126 35 41 146 64 209 310 274 278 270 Ladywalk 159 75 - - - 100 150 - - 190 162 300 Blshampton Vale Pool 4 - - - 10 - 15 33 46 60 42 25 Bittell 50 12 14 21 - 41 105 177 97 96 124 246 Pirton 34 45 42 20 16 27 21 44 150 28 88 123 Upton Warren 105 42 12 44 80 75 240 500 400 70 60 280 Westwood 130 - - 20 - 116 215 - 200 133 - 200 Wilden 130 130 70 90 68 80 - 140 130 160 130 130 Aqualate 36 26 25 20 54 200 399 205 188 342 328 882 Barton 276 260 120 80 90 154 38 210 311 434 422 353 Belvide 658 129 67 - 190 273 566 805 653 268 507 500 Blithlield 671 92 28 - - - - 1056 159 322 344 - Chasewater 82 45 65 - - - 225 280 378 316 266 230 Chiliington 70 50 27 35 29 32 100 130 135 137 190 153 Copmere 23 20 5 1 - - - 1 101 65 61 187 Croxall 331 353 191 131 106 267 117 356 771 539 455 651 Eiford 193 191 55 79 42 81 48 142 104 179 126 98 Hill Ridware 64 76 69 87 76 74 - 473 609 367 397 338 Kettlebrook Lake 52 45 27 25 21 56 28 52 73 52 48 74 Kings Bromley 148 219 66 92 61 132 154 245 486 290 248 385 Weslport 111 87 52 - - - - 105 141 102 97 80 Netherton Res 39 18 28 9 - 22 24 46 53 76 48 126 Wyken Slough 45 35 17 15 9 15 42 86 73 53 81 85 Warks A poor breeding season was reported from Brandon, where very few broods were seen. Other sites seemed to have a similar situation, and no more than five broods were reported from any locality. Maxima away from the tabulated waters included 250 at Packington and 110 at Wormleighton Res. Many sites experienced an influx of birds with the onset of colder weather in December. Worcs Broods at: Abberton, Alfrick (two), Aston Mill, Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool (two), Bittell (three), Bredon's Hardwick, Dodford, Eckington, Grimley (two), Kinsham (three), Larford, Mill Pond (nine), New Pool (two), Strensham (two), Tibberton (two), Upton Warren (nine), Westwood, and Wilden. Maxima from less favoured sites include 38 at Larford on January 8th, 60 at Westmancote on August 7th, 50 at Grimley on September 15th, 37 at Kinsham on 23rd and 96 at Bredon's Hardwick on October 18th. Staffs Broods at: Belvide (11), Betley Mere, Ford Green, Kettlebrook (seven), Pendeford Mill NR, Radford, Tamworth (four), Tlttesworth (16), Trentham (two) and Westport. Other site maxima included 107 at Minster Pool (Lichfield), 54 at Rocester JCB Pools and 157 at Rudyard in January, 87 on 37

the R.Anker at Tamworlh in July, 153 at Brocton NR and 150 at Doxey in September, and 70 at Pendeford Mill NR in October. The September count at Chasewater was a site record. W Mid Breeding success seems to be very patchy for this species, with (or instance an excellent season at Sheepwash UP with at least 20 broods (ten in 1994), but conversely a very poor one at Fens Pools with only one (six in 1994). Further, brood numbers were reported to be stable in the Valley Park area. Elsewhere broods reported from: Bart ley, Haden Hill Park, Park Lime Pits (four), Sandwell Valley, Stoke in Coventry (R. Sowe), Stubber's Green (two) and Wyken Slough. The December count at Netherton Res was the highest on record. Other notable counts included 120 at Somers Road GP in July, 130 on Dunstall Park Lake and 107 in Sandwell Valley in August, and 95 at Fens Pools in September.

Pintail Anas acuta Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Scarce in summer. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Bredon's Hardwick 21 6 2 B 3 3 4 Longdon Marsh 26 25 ------Upton Warron 3 1 - - - 9 5 3 7 Westwood 2 1 3 2 - 2 Aqualate 3 9 12 - - Barton 2 2 4 B 2 1 Belvide 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 22 4 1 3 Blithfield 66 43 27 - - - - 1 26 33 17 17 Croxall 7 3 ------1 - Doxey B - 1 1 - - - - 4 - - Tltlesworth 3 3 1 Warks A bird at Dosthill from January 15th-22nd was followed by four there on February 6th. Up to two at Brandon from January 8th-March 10th, two at Alvecote on April 2nd and three flying over Earlswood on Bth were the only additional records until an autumn influx at Draycote. Up to two were there from August 24th, increasing to three on September 13th, six on 16th and eight on 17th, with up to three on various dates up to November 19th. The only other autumn bird was at Kingsbury on September 19th. At the onset of colder weather in December there were singles at Wormleighton Res on 6th- 8th and 18th, three at Ladywalk from 25th-31st, with one at Coton and four at Earlswood Lakes also on 31 st. Worcs Records from less favoured sites came from: Arrow Valley Lake, three on January 28th; Bitted, four on January 10th and a female on November 2nd; Grafton Pool, a pair on March 23rd; Grimley, two on March 5th and one on September 15th; Little Comberton, five in flight on December 6th; and Lower Moor, a male on November 26th and December 2nd. Staffs Maxima at other sites included one at Kings Bromley in January, six at Chasewater on January 15th, two in Dovedale on 16th, six at Rickerscote on 25th, three at Brocton NR on 26th, two at Rudyard on September 11th, one at Hill Ridware on November 12th, two at Chillington on December 25th, and one at Copmere on 27th. 38

W Mid The only record concerned a male which arrived in Sandwell Valley on August 24th, and was then noted on dates from 30th until December 29th, although often missing for long periods.

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, occasionally breeding. Very rare in winter. Average: April 2nd (52) - September 28th (51) Again there was a paucity of spring records, the first coming from Lighthorne on March 25th. A good autumn passage included more October records than usual with the last on 30th at Westwood, equalling the previous latest in 1982. The two winter records were exceptional, there being only three previous records all since 1984. Warks A pair on a small pool at Lighthome Quarry on March 25th was a good local record, but the only other spring report was a male at Dosthill from May 16th-23rd. Return passage was considerably better than last year, although most records came from Draycote. Here an eclipse-plumaged male on August 27th-28th was followed by four (unsexed) birds from September 3rd-11th, with five on 10th. Two females were seen on 16th and a female/ juvenile on 23rd-24th and again on October 1st. A female at Brandon on October 8th-9th and a juvenile at Ladywalk on 20th were the only other records. Worcs The only spring record was a male at Westwood on May 12th. The first return passage birds were singles at Strensham and Bishampton Vale Pool on July 30th, the latter staying until August 28th. Singles were at Bittell on August 2nd and on September 26th-27th, but Westwood got the lion's share. Starting with two on August 12th, there were three on 13th and four from 19th-September 7th, with one staying from September 9th until the late date of October 30th. Singles were at Wilden on August 19th-20th and September 24th-25th, and finally the usually favoured Upton Warren just avoided missing out by attracting a single bird on August 24th. Staffs There were two exceptional winter records at Doxey, involving a male from January 6th-February 6th and a female on February 11th-12th MDB. In spring, there were single males at Belvide on April 8th and 13th, followed by a female from 18th-May 3rd. Blithfield held single males from April 12th- 26th and on May 13th. On return passage records came from: Belvide, three on July 3rd, four on August 23rd, three on September 2nd and a single from 8th-October 15th, with two from September 11th-16th; Blithfield, singles regularly from July 7th-September 6th and again from 20th-0ctober 7th, with two on August 4th, four on 18th and two again from 19th- September 6th with three on August 27th; Chasewater, singles on July 30th and from August 19th-26th, two on 27th and a late bird from October 22nd- 28th; Little Wyrley, three on August 23rd; and Tittesworth, two on September 10th. W Mid A pair in Sandwell Valley on May 23rd, followed by a young male from August 28th-September 11th. 39

Shoveler Anas clypeata Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce and probably decreasing breeder. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N L> Brandon 32 39 75 37 3 6 a 38 77 80 40 52 Coombe - - - 2 2 - 5 9 66 30 21 Draycote 9 1 5 - - - - 28 13 52 39 43 Kingsbury area 34 30 35 1 3 2 - 13 41 16 35 96 Ladywalk 33 29 10 3 3 3 - - - 18 27 5 Bittell - 9 - - - 2 - 17 2 - - 4 Bredon's Hardwick - - - - 1 - - 2 20 8 7 16 Pirton 4 22 2 - - - 4 5 - 5 6 Upton Warren 60 106 70 25 3 3 i 66 129 85 79 110 Westwood 110 SB 25 5 2 - - 4 13 82 98 80 Wilden 119 37 42 10 - - 20 20 30 71 50 96 Aqualate 31 40 8 5 - - - 39 225 135 63 50 Barton GP 2 4 1 2 4 4 10 2 2 20 7 20 Belvide 132 3 10 17 8 5 5 94 50 5 26 22 Blithfield 14 8 4 - - 10 14 131 11 1 2 - Doxey 13 8 ------15 15 Hill Rldware 2 1 - - - - - 9 34 23 6 Kings Bromley 19 9 2 9 . 1 Fens Pools 5 1 ------1 1 2 7 Sandwell Valley 10 16 17 7 3 - - 11 14 10 13 38 Sheepwash UP z - - ? = - 3 3 3 C 5 5 Warks No proven breeding records, although a few summered in the Tame valley and at Brandon and Coombe. Outside the breeding season small numbers were seen at a variety of other sites including Baginton Lagoons, where 25 were counted on March 31st, and further south at Compton Vemey, Napton Res and Wormleighton Res. Worcs There were eight at Longdon Marsh on February 5th, and smaller numbers at Bishampton Vale Pool, Grimley, Larford, Lower Moor and Upton-on-Sevem. Staffs A pair bred at Doxey. Counts of less than a dozen also received from: Brocton NR, Chasewater, Chillington, Croxall GP, Elford GP, Kettlebrook Lake, Pendeford Mill NR, Rickerscote, Rudyard, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid Regular at Stubber's Green from January-April, peaking at six on January 16th; while at Wyken Slough a male from January 1 st-16th was joined by a female on 6th, followed by a pair on March 31st. The only autumn record from this usually regular locality was a female on October 5th. At Netherton Res, eight were seen on August 20th, four on November 7th, two on December 12th and four on 14th. Also in December, there were three in Handsworth Park and four on Wyndley Pool, Sutton Park on 1st and a pair in Cannon Hill Park on 24th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, most probably being of feral origin. Warks At Brandon, the presumed escaped male was seen on many dates during January 31st-June 22nd and again on July 9th, with a female/immature on September 2nd BMCG. All other records came from Draycote, where a female/immature was seen on July 30th RCM, with two from August 12th- September 17th REH and either one or two on dates from 23rd-November 40

27th RCM et al. Two males were there on September 24th REH, DJS, one from October 29th-November 8th, two on December 11 th REH, RCM and one from 17th-28th RCM. Worcs A pair at Kinsham on June 6th and 18th WFP, SMW and a male at Bredon's Hardwick from June 29th-July 1st SJH et al. Single females were at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 6th WFP, and at Bittell on 10th KGC et al. and from October 16lh-24th KGC, REH. Staffs A male at Copmere from May 13th to the end of the year DWE, SME, et al. WMid An immature male on the canal in Valley Park from October 1st-11th VPBG.

Pochard Aythya ferina Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce breeding species, recently declined. No successful breeding reported this year. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D AJvecote 127 80 3 ------30 19 18 Colon/Lea Marston 572 595 390 4 2 5 32 49 73 291 390 782 Draycote 104 90 26 1 - 1 - 2 14 40 150 350 Shustoke ------362 209 81 Bishampton Vale Pool 65 18 1 1 - 2 2 7 5 47 83 62 Bittell 66 40 - - - - 1 4 4 43 60 82 Bredon's Hardwick 65 1 2 - 2 - - 1 18 22 45 Larford 70 ------8 55 80 Pirton 44 47 39 - - - - 8 33 76 Upton Warren 30 35 30 2 2 4 6 5 47 25 45 90 Westwood 128 66 10 10 - 1 4 6 32 119 90 70 Wilden 93 46 46 9 2 2 1 - 3 33 60 19 Aqualate 108 141 14 - - - 3 - - 10 137 24 Barton 42 32 19 - 1 2 2 10 43 4G Belvide 166 218 178 4 2 3 12 33 50 150 138 282 Blithlield 267 44 25 - - 15 20 12 3 18 31 - Chasewater 43 42 27 - - - - 57 138 98 109 Chillington 9 20 5 - - - 23 12 35 14 42 12 Copmere 150 155 ------2 4 2 100 Croxall 26 31 9 - - - 2 6 21 15 64 43 Elford 65 38 7 ------56 30 Hill Ridware 17 21 5 1 - 3 - - - 16 23 17 Tittesworth 96 39 18 2 - - 1 - - 12 32 Westporl 73 79 16 3 2 1 6 3 10 15 26 40 Fens Pools - 22 ------4 8 22 5 Sandwell Valley 20 69 55 - 1 1 - 7 10 28 37 60 Sheepwash UP 26 16 14 3 1 1 1 2 2 26 42 80 Wyken Slough 25 7 1 6 4 26 26 Warks Maxima at other sites included 56 at Ladywalk, 55 at Chesterton, 47 at Abbots Salford, 41 at Brandon, 27 at Temple Pool, 22 at Lower Radbourn and 16 at Compton Vemey. Worcs The count of 83 at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 4th was the highest ever at that locality. Other counts included 21 at Hewell Park on January 19th and 25 at Lower Moor on December 13th, with small numbers also at Beckford, Kinsham and New Pool (Malvern). Staffs The few counts from Gailey included 160 in February and 150 in November. Other site maxima included 21 at Brocton NR and 44 at Rickerscote in January, 15 at Betley Mere and 37 at Rudyard in February, and 17 at Kings Bromley in December; with smaller numbers at several other sites. 41

W Mid Also during the summer months a male was present at Fens Pools and up to two were regular at Witton Lakes, while a male was at Bradnock's Marsh on May 20th. Counts on other waters included 12 in West Smethwick Park in January, 12 at Stubber's Green in November, with 13 at Netherton Res and 36 at Witton Lakes in December. Reported as being regular in small numbers at Bartley during the winter months, while less than five were also noted in Handsworth Park and Smethwick Hall Park.

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Scarce visitor, many probably being of feral origin. Warks The usual male was present at Lea Marston or Coton until March 9th BLK et al. and was then present for its sixth winter from September 23rd into 1996 DWJ et al. A female at Ladywalk on November 5th SMH was a first for the reserve.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Coton/Lea Marston 599 509 500 479 91 118 763 1051 1100 1100 994 1156 Dosthill 113 108 77 - - - - - 74 113 102 Draycote 490 200 180 72 40 92 105 263 340 574 950 1200 Kingsbury 125 54 11 - 64 67 - 29 26 - - - Bishampton Vale Pool 25 - 6 20 15 21 22 40 25 35 42 55 Bittell 10 3 9 19 2 8 10 36 21 40 37 20 Bredon's Hardwick - - 24 49 41 27 6 24 20 15 - 18 Larlord 16 8 15 6 8 - - 25 23 74 Pirton 36 53 -19 28 30 26 11 25 16 7 38 33 Upton Warren 10 11 20 44 40 25 25 20 14 12 16 26 Westwood 66 - 80 83 12 7 4 15 50 - 32 75 Wilden 4 21 42 118 49 22 26 37 44 20 15 8 Aqualate 63 101 37 27 41 28 15 21 12 33 15 21 Barton 30 44 36 62 43 61 86 77 98 48 54 29 Belvide 69 125 140 140 80 51 19 105 170 23 40 57 Betley Mere 9 17 11 2 - 16 6 3 2 22 8 - Blithfield 32 62 62 - - 96 189 216 25 10 6 - Brocton NR 48 25 32 20 15 5 8 0 21 39 72 63 Chasewater 758 594 158 12 12 7 72 110 615 723 707 420 Chillington 50 35 38 8 21 17 83 85 108 108 135 132 Copmere 100 75 33 116 - - 11 127 111 84 121 Croxall 62 83 89 129 70 112 1-17 214 107 98 83 191 Elford 105 72 33 69 41 48 51 70 77 49 57 37 Hill Ridware 40 47 39 50 18 21 41 27 47 45 47 1 Kettlebrook Lake 34 35 25 12 11 8 6 6 4 3 17 22 Kings Bromley 15 8 7 - 2 22 3 2 15 5 - 50 Tittesworth 4 11 9 41 20 2 2 6 6 6 3 7 Weslport 156 53 51 58 9 27 30 44 95 59 34 86 Fens Pools 90 50 - 23 3 - 6 39 22 43 33 55 Netherton Res 64 12 7 3 2 1 1 9 4 21 38 83 Sandwell Valley 90 80 30 20 20 15 - 15 44 40 30 112 Wyken Slough 23 21 7 7 0 1 2 1 5 5 18 29 Warks Broods reported from: Alvecote, Coton, Dosthill (five), Draycote (four), Kings- bury, Lower Radbourn and Packington. At Dosthill, a female was seen escorting a creche of 34 ducklings on August 1 st SR. The best count from waters not tabulated was 100 at Lower Radboum on February 19th. 42

Worcs Broods reared successfully at: Bishampton Vale Pool (six), Bredon's Hard- wick (five). Church Lench Pool, Lower Moor (four), Kinsham, Strensham, Throckmorton and Westwood. Two pairs failed at Upton Warren due to predation. Maxima at some less favoured sites were 17 at Throckmorton on January 1st, 38 at Grimley on March 26th, 100 at Lower Moor on December 10th and 26 at Trimpley Res on 28th. Smaller numbers at: Aston Mill, Beckford, Cofton Res, Hewell Park, Kemerton, Mill Pond and New Pool. Staffs Broods at: Aqualate (two), Belvide, Blithfield (two), Doxey (three), Ford Green, Kettlebrook Lake and Tlttesworth. Other maxima included 12 at Borrowpit (Tamworth) in January, 13 at Rudyard in February and 57 at Gailey in July. W Mid Broods reared at: Meriden GP (three), Park Lime Pits (along the canal), Sand- well Valley, Sheepwash UP (five), Somers Road GP (two) and Stubber's Green (two). Other counts included 34 at Park Lime Pits on January 7th, 30 at Hydes Road Pool on February 4th and 58 at Sheepwash UP on December 27th.

Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks As usual most records came from the Coton/Lea Marston area. In January a first-winter male and three females/immatures were present from 1st, with four females/immatures on 22nd. The male gradually assumed adult plumage and remained with the three females/immatures until February 12th and then with just one until 18th. Two females joined the now solitary male from March 8th-April 2nd, with a second male on April 1 st. The long-staying male was last seen on 4th but another put in a very unseasonable appearance on June 17th. The only other records during the first quarter concerned a female at Draycote on January 8th and a male there on March 18th. The first autumn record was a female/immature at Draycote on October 29th which stayed until December 9th, while six (two males, three females and an immature) appeared there on December 30th. A female was seen at Coton on Novem- ber 26th, then at Dosthill on 29th and December 7th, and two females/ immatures at Coton/Lea Marston on December 26th-27th, with one on 28th-29th. A female at the new Abbots Salford Pool on December 3rd and 7th, with two on 26th were excellent records from the far south-west of the county. Worcs A male and two females were present at Bredon's Hardwick from February 19th-28th, with one female remaining until March 12th, followed by a pair on 16th. A male was at Bittell on April 11th. Later in the year, there were two females at Bredon's Hardwick on October 16th-17th, and finally, a first-winter male and a female at Upton Warren on December 28th. Staffs A female and immature male were present at Chasewater from 1994 until January 21st, with three on various dates from 22nd until March 5th, and with the male remaining to 18th. Blithfield held single females on February 15th, on several dates from March 1st-15th and on April 5th, with a male on March 19th. A male was also present at Belvide on April 19th. The few autumn records included a single at Barton GP on October 8th, a female at Belvide on November 4th, an immature male at Tittesworth on December 10th and a female at Dosthill north GP on 27th. 43

W Mid An immature male, probably last years bird, was at Park Lime Pits from January 6th-10th. A female at Fens Pools on March 8th, was followed in Sandwell Valley by another female on May 20th and two moulting males on July 31st. A female was at Netherton Res from December 5th-12th.

Aythya hybrids Pochard x Ferruginous Duck Staffs A male at Belvide on February 25th.

Pochard x Tufted Duck Warks A female at Lea Marston on December 29th-30th.

Tufted Duck x Pochard Warks The male at Coton/Lea Marston from 1994 remained until at least April 11th, with probably the same bird back again on December 27th-30th. A female was at Draycote on January 22nd, with a male there on October 29th and November 5th. Staffs A male at Kettlebrook Lake on April 15th. W Mid A male at Wyken Slough on November 15th.

Scaup x Tufted Duck Staffs A female, possibly of this parentage, was at Blithfield on February 12th.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemaiis Scarce winter visitor, rare in spring and summer. Another year without a record, following closely upon the last blank one in 1993.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A poor year with 20 birds involved in just six records. At Draycote, there were two males and a female on January 17th, five (one male) on June 10th, nine (two males) on July 8th, a male on October 5th and a female on 30th. A female was at Shustoke on July 5th-6th. Worcs A male was at Bittell on January 16th and a female at Bredon's Hardwick on April 8th. Staffs At Belvide, a pair on April 10th and 21st were followed by single males on June 19th and July 3rd and 8th, and by two females on November 2nd. A female visited Westport on June 22nd, with a male at Blithfield on 25th and a female there on July 22nd. Chasewater produced a male next day, with a female on November 11th-12th, two on 13th and another on December 8th. W Mid Singles were at Barlley on March 22nd and September 30th.

Velvet Scoter Meianitta fusca Rare winter visitor (7/10). Warks A female at Draycote on December 26th JFCJ was the first in the county for six years. Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Fairly common winter visitor. Rare in summer.

Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Dosthill 47 108 150 36 1 35 17 Draycote 121 143 133 67 1 - - 1 - 12 82 120 Bishampton Vale Pool ------2 5 Bittell 5 6 4 5 - - — - - 1 4 1 Bredon's Hardwick 1 - 1 1 3 - Larford 1 - 1 1 3 Upton Warren - 1 1 2 1 Westwood 7 10 10 10 1 5 1 Wilden 2 - - 1 - - - - - 2 2 - Aqualate - 4 2 1 2 2 Barton 39 45 37 23 3 4 33 Belvide 34 65 84 61 5 20 26 Blithfield 25 32 44 22 - - 17 18 25 Chasewater 151 148 141 47 1 1 1 1 1 13 88 103 Chillington 13 12 12 5 8 10 Copmere 13 10 5 19 ------5 7 Croxall 4 5 13 8 - - - - - 1 29 19 Dosthill north 47 45 51 ------Elford 1 3 2 Hill Ridware - 1 2 4 1 2 Kings Bromley 9 1 13 24 Rudyard 1 4 6 2 Tittesworth 1 5 3 4 1 Westpoit 18 20 19 18 - - - - 9 13 11 Bartley 8 6 6 3 2 5 Fens Pools 5 5 5 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 Netherton Res 1 1 1 1 2 Sandwell Valley 3 1 1 2 2 Warks Counts elsewhere in the Tame valley included up to six at Ladywalk and a maximum of 24 at Coton on March 16th. Other records involved up to three at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Brandon, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coombe, Jubilee Pools, Napton Res and Wormleighton Res. 45

Worcs Ten at Grimley on March 25th had probably been disturbed from nearby Westwood. Singles noted at Hewell Grange, Kinsham and Lower Moor. Staffs An injured duck remained all year at Chasewater. Also recorded more erratically at several other sites. W Mid An injured male was present at Fens Pools from April through to September 6th. At Sheepwash UP, a female present from October 28th was joined by a male on November 15th, both remaining to December 2nd. Another male was then here from December 16th-31 st. Other singles were at Wyken Slough on November 15th and on Longmoor Pool, Sutton Park on December 8th.

Smew Mergus albellus Scarce winter visitor. Very rare in summer. Warks The recent poor run at Draycote continued with the only birds of the 1994/5 winter arriving during January; a male on 7th REH, DJS and a male and redhead on 22nd REH. Comparitively the Tame valley is becoming a regular haunt and birds from 1994 were still present in the new year. Up to three redheads commuted between Coton, Dosthill and Kingsbury (Swann Pool) until January 28th, with two from February 12th-March 5th and one regularly until April 2nd JAA, PDH, SMH, MFO et al. Possibly the same bird was seen again at Coton on April 11th JJB and 30th SMH, a late date. The first bird to return was a redhead at Kingsbury on December 7th PC, BLK, with presumably the same bird at Coton on 9th SMH, and at Dosthill on 18th JAA and 26th PDH. A redhead was at Draycote on December 30th JJB. Worcs A redhead at Bittell from January 2nd-March 22nd CJL et al. and two redheads at Bishampton Vale Pool on December 8th GHP et al. Staffs At Chasewater, the male from 1994 remained until March 5th several observers, with presumably the same bird returning on December 16th GE, ICW, MY and staying to the end of the year. Single males were at Blithfield on January 1st and 11th ESC, with two there on 29th ESC, GIG, PDH and possibly the same two moving to Branston WP from February 14th-21st DJA, ESC. Single redheads were at Barton GP on March 4th ICW, MY and at Dosthill north GP from January 28th-March 5th, MAA, RJT, MY and on December 24th MAA, RJT. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, a redhead at Icehouse Lake on February 5th TCH et al. was followed by an immature male at Swan Pool on December 10th-11th TCH, PS.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus senator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred Staffs in 1994. Warks A possible six birds were involved in the years records, furthering the belief that the species is on the increase. Single males were at Draycote on January 23rd RCM and Dosthill on 28th NPB, SMH et al. Further birds arrived at Draycote in early winter, with a male from November 21st-25th REH, DJS, JW, a redhead on 25th-26th RCM and another from December 9th-11th JJB, REH, DJS, with a male also present on 10th-11th RCM. Worcs Six redheads arrived at Westwood at dusk on December 4th SMW. Staffs A pair at Rudyard on April 4th AB, AGJ. At Blithfield, an out-of-season female 46

seen briefly on July 7th ESC, GIG, PDH, MJI and another female stayed from December 13th-24th ESC etal.

Goosander Mergus merganser Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare breeding bird since 1990. Impressive numbers arrived in the Region during cold weather in December with three of the counties smashing their previous best counts, including Staffs where the 185 at Belvide was a Regional record. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N 0 Draycote 29 29 43 8 - - - 1 4 34 71 Shusloke 9 11 11 2 - - - - 1 3 5 Larford 21 4 S 70 98 Upton Warren 2 2 1 Westwood 1 3 1 Barton 14 9 3 13 4 4 4 Belvlde 52 52 47 15 - - - 1 82 165 Blithfield 46 98 40 14 2 1 - 14 29 114 Brocton NR 4 36 7 4 - - - - - 11 15 Chasewater 2 7 ------8 Chillington 24 5 B 8 6 Croxall 4 6 4 1 2 5 Doxey 12 9 - 1 2 8 Kings Bromtey 2 2 2 1 1 Longsdon 5 7 10 Pendefoid 2 6 1 2 11 29 Rudyard 6 - 1 ------4 4 Tittesworth 7 16 3 - - - - 3 8 - 2 Sandwell Valley 5 6 6 7 6 Warks The count of 71 at Draycote on December 30th JJB was a county record. Away from the main sites during the early months there were peaks of six at Dosthill, nine at Ladywalk and seven at Napton Res, with one or two at Abbots Salford, Brandon, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coton, Earlswood Lakes, Jubilee Pools, Kingsbury, Packington and Wormleighton Res. Scarcer towards the end of the year, with the only records being one at Jubilee Pools on October 7th, three at Chesterton and one at Ladywalk on November 12th, one on the R.Avon at Stratford on December 18th, three at Napton Res on 30th and two at Alvecote on 31 st. Worcs Large numbers at Larford from the end of November culminated in the county record being broken for the second successive year, with a peak of 98 (including 18 adult males) on December 6th GHP. Small numbers were present along the R.Teme, with a max. of eight at an undisclosed site on April 8th. Other significant counts were ten at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 4th and eight at Kyre Pool on 26th. Up to three were also noted at Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick, Kinsham, Lower Moor, Trimpley Res and Witley Court. Staffs Elsewhere 25 were recorded at Copmere on March 19th, with small numbers at: Alrewas, Back Dane, Deep Hayes, Dosthill north GP, Milford, Rickerscote and Westport. The count of eight at Chasewater on December 25th was a site record. 47

W Mid Appears to be establishing itself as a regular wintering bird in Sandwell Valley. At Fens Pools, single redheads flew over on January 8th and February 4th, with a pair present on December 4th and further redheads on 9th and 19th- 21st. A drake circled Netherton Res on the early date of September 17th before leaving to tho south-east, while a redhead was on Blackroot Pool in Sutton Park on November 30th.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Fairly common resident of feral origin. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Colon 22 1 7 13 9 5 3 105 - 130 - 145 Dosthill 35 32 48 10 73 226 73 Bishampton Vale Pool - - - 6 3 3 9 23 31 31 14 2 Bittell 1 2 - 4 - - 2 10 3 5 4 Pirton 12 14 - 6 6 4 14 12 13 9 13 Upton Warren 1 7 13 15 22 26 25 4 4 4 4 4 Westwood 9 27 41 39 14 8 7 14 18 32 23 15 Wilden 1 1 8 17 10 - 8 7 4 1 - - Aqualate 3 0 14 15 23 2 7 - 11 23 60 0 Belvide 124 127 127 78 33 1 4 7 3 3 2 Betley Mere - - 12 12 - 4 5 11 12 1 2 - Blilhlield 602 397 195 - - 1 14 178 204 156 273 - Chasewater 3 3 7 5 2 - - a 5 5 2 8 Fens Pools 1 2 2 e - 1 ------Sandwell Valley 2 - 1 3 4 1 7 2 2 - 3 3 Warks The only brood reported was at Lower Radboum. During the summer months small numbers were seen on several Tame valley waters, and at Alvecote (four), Brandon (five, where there has been no breeding since 1991), Ches- terton (ten), Packington (eight) and Stoneton Moat (three). Winter maxima included 17 at Alvecote and nine at Draycote. Worcs Broods at: Bishampton Vale Pool (three), Church Lench Pool, Upton Warren (four) and Westwood (three). Small numbers also seen at Bredon's Hardwick, Hewell Park, Kinsham, Larford and Lower Moor. Staffs The only breeding record came from Bearstone Mill. At Barton GP, 110 was a very good count on February 19th, while Gailey held 19 in both July and September. Small numbers also recorded at: Brocton NR, Chillington, Cop- mere, Croxall, Elford, Hill Ridware, Rocester, Rudyard, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid Successful breeding in Sandwell Valley and at Sheepwash UP, while at Fens Pools a brood was hatched but lost shortly after. Elsewhere, up to four were recorded during the spring and summer at: Bradnock's Marsh, Handsworth Park, Meriden GP (max. 13 on April 13th), Parkes Hall Pool (Woodsetton), Queslett NP, St Margaret's Lakes (Great Barr), Stoke Floods, Stubber's Green, Sutton Park and Wyken Slough. Additionally outside this period, up to three were present at Netherton Res.

White-headed x Ruddy Duck Warks A female showing characteristics of both species at Lower Radbourn on May 1st and 14th DG, MJL was presumably an escape. 48

Red Kite Milvus milvus A scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until early 19th century. Reports from several other sites in both Warks and Worcs during the year were unfortunately not substantiated by written descriptions. All unpublished past and present records complete with adequate descriptions are urgently required in order to fully document any attempt at future colonisation of the Region. Warks Two were present at Packington from May 20th-22nd per NPB. Wnrr.t Singles were seen over Trench Wood on April 21st PCk, DAJ, AN, Hollybed Common on May 21st JGP, and drifting over binell on July 29lh KQC, RCII. 1994 Addendum Warks One over Packington Hall on March 4th per NPB.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce though increasing passage migrant. Warks An adult female flew through Dosthill on April 23rd ICW, MY and an immature was there on 30th SMH, SR. An immature at Seckington on May 12th SMH hunted the same arable fields as the county's second Montagu's Harrier back in May 1987. Six records from Brandon in April-May and September unfortunately remain unsubstantiated. Worcs Records of single 'cream-crowns' at Bredon Hill on May 6th-7th MJI, GJM, WFP, at nearby Beckford on May 6th AW, and flying north-west over Upton Warren on 7th JTB, SC, AW, MIW, probably related to at least two individuals. Sightings of a first-summer female at Aston Mill Pit from May 23rd-24th SJH, SMW, and on July 31 st GHP; and at Kinsham on August 4th GHP, gave rise to speculation that a bird may have spent the summer in that area. In another excellent year for the species, the last to be reported was a juvenile flying south-east down Happy Valley on September 16th SMW. Staffs An adult male at Blithfield on April 23rd AJB, was followed by an adult female at Belvide on 27th SN, which hunted the shoreline before leaving to the west. Autumn produced single immatures at Belvide on August 6th KA, FCG, Blithfield on 16th ESC and Lum Edge on October 18th AH. W Mid An immature male flew north over Sandwell Valley on April 29th JJB, while a female was seen at Minworth SF on September 4th JJB. 1994 Addendum

W Mid A female circled Fens Pools on May 12th SE, before leaving to the east.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred Staffs in 1974-5 and 1979. Warks A ringtail flew across the back of the observer's garden at Whitacre Heath on November 27th KW. Still a rare find, and apart from a record five in 1993 there have been only singles in three years since 1990. Worcs A ringtail was seen at Upton Warren on January 11th per JTB, with probably the same bird again there on February 4th SC, MH, RH, AFJ, AW. Staffs Relatively few records were submitted this year from the northern moorlands. At Swallow Moss, an adult male was seen on January 2nd AGJ, WJL, a 49

ringtail on March 12th NC and 13th DWE, SME and the male again on April 8th PDH. A wing-tagged ringtail observed there on April 16th AB, AGJ had been marked as a male nestling in Dumfriesshire, Scotland in the summer of 1994, a movement of 240 km. The only other sighting in the north of the county during the early months was an adult male (presumably the Swallow Moss bird) east of Morridge on February 25th AH. Towards the end of the year an adult male was again at Swallow Moss from November 12th-26th AB, AH, AGJ, and December 9th AB. In the south of the county, the ringtail at Barton GP from 1994 was seen regularly until February 27th several observers, with later sightings of a ringtail here on April 8th ICW, MY and May 21st GIG, PDH, ICW. Another ringtail was seen at Chasewater on at least October 31st GE. W Mid A ringtail flew through Sandwell Valley on October 20th JCI.

Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor. Bred Worcs in 1926. (4/10). The Worcs bird was the earliest spring record ever, the previous earliest being on April 27th (1991 at Bredon Hill). Warks A bird thought to have been a second-summer male was seen briefly, though closely, near Thurlaston on June 10th RMF, RPF. Only the third record within the present county boundaries, the others coming from Stratford in 1953 and Seckington in 1987. Worcs A male flew south-east over Upton Warren on April 23rd AMO, DMO. The first for the reserve, and only the seventh county record.

Harrier sp. Circus sp. W Mid A ringtail, thought to be a Hen Harrier, flew through Sandwell Valley on September 17th MJH, PJM.

Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce resident and visitor. Warks Single females were seen at Packington on September 27th NPB, Rowington on November 5th NDG and at Furnace End on November 22nd KW. Worcs At least two juveniles were fledged from a site in the north of the county, while breeding season reports came from two further localities observers names withheld. Staffs Possible breeding birds reported from three sites. Elsewhere, reports came from: Aqualate, Beech, Coombes Valley, North Staffs Moors, Sheepwalks and Weston Bank observers names withheld. WMid A female circled over Wyken Slough on March 20th JJB, before heading off north being mobbed by the local Sparrowhawks.

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks Widely reported in the breeding season though the only successful nests reported were at Brandon (four young) and Coombe. Two pairs were present at Packington, while at The Somers a pair lost their nest site to tree felling. 50

Increasingly coming to garden bird tables, which provide more food than their owners intend. In a Southam garden, a female took a Woodpigeon on July 21st. Worcs Breeding was proved at Black Hill, North Piddle, Raggedstone Hill and Upton Warren. Breeding season records came from a further 14 sites, while outside this period a further 21 places featured. An indication of the size of prey the species is able to tackle came from a report of one killing a Lapwing at Upton Warren on November 23rd. Staffs Well reported. Breeding pairs reported from: Abbots Bromley, Belvide (four young reared), Blithfield, Burton, Chillington, Coombes Valley (three), Doxey (three) and Elford. Prey species recorded ineiuaeti House Sparrow, Cummun Snipe, Swallow, Feral Pigeon and Blue Tit. W Mid Breeding season records, some relating to proven breeding, came from 16 locations. Several of these were from wooded urban cemeteries or large gardens indicating how widespread this bird is becoming. At Park Lime Pits, a nest which had been used annually for eleven years was robbed of its young by a youth. Outside the breeding season records came from over 40 sites, with a maximum of four together at Wyken Slough on March 29th.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The county population has been steadily increasing since 1988 and this year there were well over a hundred records from 40 sites distributed throughout Warks; as recently as 1985 there were but four records from three sites. Breeding records however are poorly documented, although casual sightings suggest that at least ten pairs are now present. The largest party reported was five over Walton on March 12th. At Coleshill in late August, one tasted the double-glazing when it hit a lounge window and then flew off apparently unhurt! Worcs Breeding season reports came from 35 localities, although only at Crowle was breeding proven. No longer restricted to the Teme Valley, Bredon Hill and the Malverns, birds are now resident in several woods to the east of Worcester, north of Kidderminster, along the R.Severn south of Stourport, and around Bromsgrove. Only the extreme east and south-east of the county failed to produce breeding season records, though some of the 41 sites where the species was reported outside this period were in the east. Several reports mentioned small parties soaring on thermals, the largest being seven at Coldridge Wood on April 14th and eight near the Carrant Brook on May 21st. One found injured by the roadside at Bricklehampton on February 5th. Staffs Reports came from throughout the county but with few actual breeding records received. Maxima included four at Aqualate and Mayfield, eight at Sheepwalks and 12 at Belvide, the latter on September 23rd. W Mid A pair were present in the east of the county during the breeding season. A good scatter of records, predominantly during February-October, from: Bartley, Bickenhill, Bloxwich Cemetery, Chadwick End, Dorridge, Fens Pools (three records, with two on June 16th), Hampton-in-Arden, Handsworth Wood, Harborne NR, Hayhead Wood, Mons Hill (three records), Netherton 51

Hill, Oldswinford, Park Lime Pits (eight records), Saltwells Wood (three records), Sandwell Valley (eight records, with two twice), Sheepwash UP, Valley Park (three records, with two on October 28th), Wren's Nest (four records) and Wychbury Hill.

Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (2/10).

Rough-legged Buzzard (Phil Jones)

These records presumably relate to birds beginning to return north-east after the invasion of October 1994. Staffs An immature was seen at Swallow Moss on March 9th BS, LS, with possibly the same bird again there from April 7th-12th AB, AGJ, SAR. This bird was also seen near the Mermaid Inn AB, AGJ and at Tittesworth PA Walso on April 12th. An immature at Seven Springs on March 15th BS, LS was described by the observers as looking identical to the Swallow Moss bird of March 9th, so possibly this was the same bird wandering south. An adult was seen at Park Hall CP on March 24th AK, DK.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus Scarce passage migrant. Increasing. Warks Only one substantiated record this year; a bird seen over Wolverton Hill on May 8th EAT, FWT. Worcs A bird at Wilden on April 10th BW, was followed by one flushed from a tree along Dowles Brook, Wyre Forest on 28th RJW, which flew off with a recently caught fish in its talons. One spent part of the morning at Kinsham on May 23 rd SMW, and another flew over Abberton on June 11th GHP, WRHP. Staffs In spring, singles were seen heading north over Roach End on April 9th MBI, 52

AH and at Belvide on 21st FCG. The first bird on return passage was seen flying south-west between Codsall and Brewood on September 7th KA, followed by singles at Belvide on 12th SN and Chasewater, briefly before moving south, on 13th GE. Another circled Chasewater for nine minutes on October 7th MY, before departing west. Finally, a late bird was seen at Betley Mere on October 29th JAL, AR, which was later relocated in Betley Hall Gardens DWE, SME. 1994 Addendum W Mid One drifted west over Fens Pools on May 9th SE.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs reported from: Alvecote, Bentley, Bidford-on-Avon, Brandon, Coombe (two), Draycote, Exhall, Kingsbury, Long Itchington, Marlcliff, Packington (two) and The Somers. Worcs Although breeding was only confirmed at Kinsham, the species remains well- distributed with records from 38 other localities, 26 being in the breeding season. This represents a notable rise from the 28 sites of 1994 and 27 of 1993. The largest count was five at Castlemorton Common on April 14th. Staffs Under-recorded. Breeding reports from Belvide (three pairs in area), Blithfield, Tittesworth and Whitemoor Hay. No breeding at Doxey this year. W Mid Very little breeding data supplied this year, with breeding proven only at two sites in central Birmingham, Foleshill Gasworks and Sandwell Valley. Nesting was also strongly suspected in Coventry city centre, in the Harborne NR area and at Whitley pumping station, while a female and two recently fledged young were seen at Wyken Slough. Records were received from a further 16 localities. Two or three observers stated that Kestrels appeared to be far less common this year - more information would be useful. Is this species declining at the expense of Sparrowhawk?

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeding bird on the northern moorlands. Warks Records were slightly up with 22 records involving about 16 individuals, with again a slight bias towards autumn. Presumably overwintering from 1994 was a female at Wishaw on January 15th AC, while a male at Jubilee Pools on 21st PFA was probably a site first. An unsexed bird was at Dosthill on February 18th NDG and a probable immature male sped across the A46 near Brandon on 20th SMH. Single females/immatures were at Kingsbury on March 5th DWJ, Draycote on 19th RCM and Lighthorne Quarry on April 1 st SMH. An early returning male surprised hirundines (more used to avoiding Hobbysl) at Shustoke on September 6th SMH and an immature male was after the same prey at Coton on 18th SMH, with possibly the same bird at Piccadilly on 19th SR. A male at Wormleighton Res on October 20th JJB, was followed next day by another at Wishaw SMH. Probably the same male was again in the latter area on November 5th SMH, 22nd and December 8th BLK, with a female/immature there on October 22nd SMH and November 26th 53

BLK. Other males were at Shustoke on November 13th BLKand near Dosthill on December 13th BLK, with females/immatures at Lea Marston on October 21st DWJ and at Draycote on December 5th JIV and Northend on 9th JJB. Worcs A female was seen regularly at Larford from January 4th-15th TMH et al, with a male there on 6th and 21st RJW. SMW Another male was at Bredon's Haidwick on January 6th SJH, with a female on April 5th-6th SJH. A male was at Kempsey on January 12th MAS, and single females over Droitwich on 28th S/WWand at Upton Warren on February 7th AFJ. The first of the autumn was at Grimley on October 21st REH, followed by a female at Bredon's Hardwick on 25th SJH. These were followed by a male at Church Lench on November 18th GHP, a bird at Upton Warren on 20th JR etal, a male at Larford on 27th MHB, and single females at Shernal Green, and between there and Dunhampstead on December 17th RRH. Staffs Present throughout Ihe year on the North Staffs Moors, details from two sites have been withheld where breeding possibly occurred. Other reports from this district included singles at Wolfscote Dale on January 2nd AB, Mermaid Inn (female) on March 13th OWE, SMW, Morridge Top on April 2nd AH, and the Winking Man pub (female) on May 29th NC. Later in the year there were singles on Morridge on October 5th and 29th NC and at Gib Torr on December 29th AJD per FCG. Tittesworth produced singles on March 19th and May 7th, a male on September 3rd, a female on December 22nd and a male on 30th PAW. The now regular wintering area just south of Burton upon Trent again produced a good series of records, although the exact number of birds is difficult to assess. Records came from: Alrewas, a male on February 4th MY, a female on 23rd ESC and a male on March 25th ICW, MY, Barton GP, a female on January 2nd and probably the same bird again on 4th-5th DJA, a male on 6th DJA and 8th AC, one on 15th AC, with a female/immature on October 31st ESC; Barton Turn, a female on April 22nd ICW, MY; Croxall, a male on December 31st AC; Elford, a female on March 4th DJA; and Whitemoor Hay, a female/immature on January 22nd MY, a male on March 8th DJA and October 28th PDH, a female on 30th PDH, and one of each on December 31st RJJ. Elsewhere, a male was at Dosthill on March 26th MY, with single female/immatures at Blithfield on October 7th ICW, MY and Westport on December 16th NC, WJL. W Mid The regular wintering area of Wiggins Hill/Wishaw Lane produced a female/ immature on October 18th PAH, a male from November 7th-12th, a different male on 19th, 22nd and 26th and a female/immature also on 26th BLK. 1993 Addendum Warks A juvenile male which died after hitting a patio window at Weston-under- Wetherley on August 17th had been ringed as a nestling in County Durham on July 1st. This involved an early southward movement of 264km within six weeks of being in the nest per SMH.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 26th (28) - October 3rd (31) The first spring record came from Upton Warren on April 19th, with a few 54

more before the end of the month and the main influx during the first week in May. There were more records during October than usual, with regular sightings up to I Oil • and later birdc at Dr»yrnte on 14th and Lawford Heath on 17th. Warks Confirmed breeding took place at two localities in the north of the county but noted as absent from several other regular nest sites. Otherwise records came from throughout the county with regular sightings at the usual places including 42 records at Brandon and 17 at both Draycote and in the Kingsbury area. Four were seen at Brandon on May 1st, with up to three at Draycote, Kingsbury and Shustoke; all sites which hold large concentrations of passage hirundines and Common Swifts. A distinct prey preferance for the latter was noted at Shustoke on September 4th where a bird totally ignored the hundreds of hirundines, while at Brandon on June 19th one was seen to take a bat. Worcs No confirmed breeding records, but noted at 41 sites spread throughout the county, suggesting a healthy population. From clusters of records between mid-June and mid-July one can infer that there may be five or six pairs, mainly in central and southern areas. Upton Warren produced 44 sightings, of which 35 were between August 14th and October 9th. Sadly there was evidence of persecution with the discovery of a shot bird at Welland on May 7th, while at Malvern Link another met an abrupt end by flying into a window on August 14th. Staffs Well reported from throughout the county, with records from a total of 25 sites. Only one breeding record was received, the pair having taken over an old squirrels drey. W Mid Successfully bred at a site in the county for the second year running. Also noted frequently during the summer months at Meriden GP, with a further 37 records (cf. 28 in 1994) received from other localities during the period May 2nd-September 28th. The most frequented sites were Wyken Slough with eight records (including two adults together on September 5th), and Fens Pools and Sandwell Valley with seven each. Up to three records also came from Balsall Common (two juveniles on August 7th), Berkswell, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park/Valley Park area, Harborne NR, Norton (Stourbridge), Park Lime Pits, Sheepwash UP and Woodshires Green.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeder since 1992. At least two pairs reared young in the Region, with records involving two counties for the second year running. Warks Fewer records this year against the recent trend; mainly due to a paucity from the formerly favoured Tame valley which could only muster singles at Ladywalk on February 4th per SLC, Dosthill on August 12th NDG and 24th PC, and again at Ladywalk on October 8th per SLC. At Draycote, an immature was seen regularly from August 22nd-November 24th RCM et al., with an adult male on November 12th RCM and December 15th AC. An immature female found dead at Eathorpe on October 5th DSm was thought to have died following a collision. Other singles were noted at Waverley Wood 55

on January 30th DJK, Shelfield on March 5th J AC, llmington Downs on October 15th SMH, SR and BAD Kineton on November 30th PHA. Worcs Most regularly seen at Bredon's Hardwick, with singles on January 1st-March 18th, July 19th, October 29th, and December 29th; and at Upton Warren, where seen throughout the year particularly after June, with 37 reports here from July-Dccember many observers. Other records included a male at Longdon Marsh on Jan 1st and a female on March 10th GHP, with singles around Timberhonger on January 3rd, July 2nd, August 30th and September 21st-22nd JR. Further singles were at Beckford on January 28th PFW, Birlingham on 29th (which took a Black-headed Gull) PFW, Tibberlon on February 19th RRH, Bishampton Vale Pool on April 7th GHP, Hallow on 8th IGC, Aston Mill on July 31st GHP, Spetchley on September 8th SMW, Wyche Cutting on 11th perMHC, Dodford on 17th CHR, Larford on October 1st MHB, Pirton Pool on 8th MAS, Little Comberton on November 2nd PFW, New Pool on 25th per MHC, Crowle on December 6th MAS, Throckmorton on 8th GHP, Lickey Hills on 26th PAC, Lower Moor on 30th RAP and Wilden on 31 st RM. Staffs Seen at Belvide by various observers in every month of the year, though the only actual records received were of a male on October 29th RF, one on November 14th DS, and a female on December 16th RF At Blithfield, one on July 23rd ESC, and then recorded on 26 dates from August 16th-December 24th several observers. Most of these records referred to single birds (particularly immatures), with the exception of two on September 3rd and December 23rd. Elsewhere in the county there were singles at: Aqualate, on March 19th FCG, July 21st and October 13th TC, RR per FCG, and on December 11th FCG; Barton GP on October 22nd ICW; Chasewater on December 25th JEF, SMH; Croxall, on January 26th and December 24th MY; Elford, on August 12th DJA and December 30th PDH; Lichfield Cathedral, perched on spire on July 25th DJA, BR; near Market Drayton on January 23rd WJL; Newcastle on December 24th WJL; Pendeford Mill NR on September 21st JVG; Sheepwalks on March 12th SLH; Swallow Moss on March 13th FCG; Tittesworth, on November 26th PAW and December 10th AB; and Whitemoor Hay on January 21st DJA. W Mid A male over Fens Pools on January 3rd and 14th SE, was followed by an excellent series of records from the Dunstall Park/Valley Park area, with an adult male on March 22nd, and further singles on July 22nd, October 22nd, November 5th and December 25th VPBG. A (probably) female bird flew north over Amblecote towards Wordsley on March 25th MDJ. A male flew over Kingswinford on September 5th SLH, with one noted flying south over the M42 between junctions four and five on October 31 st RJJ. 1994 Addendum W Mid A female flew over Fens Pools on January 6th SE.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Frequent though declining resident on North Staffs Moors. Staffs Few reports received. Ten were seen at Swallow Moss on April 8th and seven at Gun Hill on November 25th, with smaller numbers at several other sites including Gib Torr, Gradbach Hill, Lady Edge and Middle Hills. 12 pairs were 56

located on the Roaches on March 24th, where apparently the Peak Park has purchased the shooting rights from the Duke of Rutland and have retained the keeper. There has been a significant increase In biids. on this e3tato both at the Roaches and at Hen Cloud, though no exact figures have yet been made available.

Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix Scarce and decreasing resident, now restricted to North Staffs Moors. Staffs Swallow Moss still seems to remain the sole lekking site at present, though other former sites are checked on a regular basis. Six males was the maximum seen from January-May (cf. seven in 1994, 12 in 1993), with three females noted on March 12th-13th.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks Thought to have declined at Ladywalk, probably due to disturbance on the old power station site. The best coveys were of 17 at Fenny Compton and 21 at Kingsbury, with 10-12 at BAD Kineton, Burton Dassett, Radway and Tysoe. Worcs Small numbers noted at 20 localities around the county. No large coveys reported this year, the largest being one of ten at Broome on October 24th. Staffs The only reported double figure covies were 20 at Ashwood on January 9th, 12 at Whitemoor Hay on October 2nd and 23 at Pattingham on November 5th. A sporting pair visited Cauldon Low football pitch on April 15th! WMid Again regularly encountered only in the Minworth-Wishaw area, where breeding was confirmed when a pair with at least six young were seen running across Wiggins Hill Lane. More isolated records came from: Fens Pools, two on April 25th; Netherton Hill, one on April 29th and May 3rd-5th, with two on August 30th; Sandwell Valley, a released bird on March 21st; Somers Road GP, a pair on May 21st; Willenhall, a covey of eight on a disused railway on September 24th; and Woodshires Green, a pair from fields at nearby Exhall (Warks) on May 18th.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Common though much declined resident. Warks Breeding season records came from: Bidford-on-Avon, Chadshunt, Ches- terton, Dosthill, Exhall, Lawford Heath, Priors Marston, Seckington, Southam, The Somers and Walton. Two sizeable coveys, of 18 at Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) and 20 at Princethorpe, were reported though the next best was only six. Although under-reported it seems to be becoming increasingly scarce in areas where it was formerly common, e.g. in the south-east of the county where the BOS received only 13 records this year compared to 74 for Red-legged Partridge. Worcs Records were received from 15 localities, with breeding proved at North Piddle and Tibberton and breeding season reports from: Abberton, Bishampton Vale Pool, Larford, Old Hills Common, Throckmorton and Trench. The largest covies were of ten at Larford on January 2nd and March 13th, 18 at Ashmoor Common on October 8th, 14 at Huddington on November 10th, ten at Haws Hill on 26th, 17 at Rushwick on December 6th and ten at Aston Mill on 24th. 57

Staffs Breeding occurred at Park Hall CP, Tittesworth and Whitemoor Hay; and also possibly at Chasewater and Croxall. The largest reported covies came from Belvide, where there were 18 on January 27th, 13 on August 17th and 15 on October 18th. Other good-sized counts included eight at Chasewater on January 9th, 12 at Whitemoor Hay on November 5th and ten at Alrewas on December 24th. W Mid Now apparently very scarce, with records from only two areas. In the Park Lime Pits area, after three on January 3rd, a pair were present during May and early June, with singletons noted in late July and early August. At Bosty Lane in Aldridge, three were found on farmland on January 9th and two on February 4th. All sightings should be reported.

Quail Coturnix coturnix Uncommon summer resident, though in fluctuating numbers. Very rare in winter. Average: May 6th (9) -August27th (6)

Quail (Dave Nurney)

Warks A pair were proved breeding for the second consecutive year with two young seen at Draycote on August 10th RCM, after occasional records of calling birds there from June 2nd-August 11th RCM et al. Other calling males were heard at Chadshunt on May 11th NP, Wibtoft on June 3rd MFO and Harbury on 18th RVCH. Worcs A moderate year. Single calling males were at Crowle on May 14th KHT, in wheatfields at Clifton on Teme on June 4th RM and in Bishampton Vale on 19th GHP, WFP; and in set-aside at Bittell on July 16th-17th REH etal. Staffs Three were calling at Mucklestone on June 12th WJL, increasing to six on 13th NC, JAL, and with smaller numbers until July 18th several observers, while another called at nearby Bearstone Mill on June 17th JPM. At White- moor Hay, one called on May 30th ESC, JVH, with three-four on June 27th ESC, and singles until July 24th several observers. Elsewhere, single calling birds were at Acton Trussell on May 11th FCG, Codsall on June 30th SN, 58

Chartley Park on July 18th FCG and Belvide on August 8th BL, while one was seen flying across the A38 at Lichfield on May 30th JVH.

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, but mainly in rural areas. Warks Continues to thrive, especially in areas where captive-bred stock are released for shooting. Where these areas lie close to reserve feeding stations the species is highly dislikedl A white male was seen again at llmington on April 9th, while another pure white bird was under the Ladywalk feeding tables on December 24th. Worcs Counts of 200 on Bredon Hill on September 23rd and October 11th were mainly birds released for shooting. Staffs Few reports. At Chasewater sightings are now more frequent than formerly, partly due to habitat change and partly to the destruction of habitat at nearby Bleak House by open cast mining. W Mid Very poorly reported this year. A few pairs were noted in the species county stronghold around Berkswell and Meriden in spring, an area where birds are still released for shooting. Elsewhere the only records concerned a female at llley on March 21st, one or two calling males in Sandwell Valley from April- June and a male in Valley Park on May 7th.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Rare feral visitor. Warks A male at Maxstoke on June 11th was presumably a locally released bird.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident. Warks Bred at Brandon and Coombe, with summer records at Alvecote (at least one pair), Luddington (pair) and Middleton. At least 12 were calling at Ladywaik on November 18th, while other winter records came from Alvecote (max. four), Brandon (max. five), Coleshill, Coombe (max. five), Coton, Curdworth, Dosthill, Draycote, Kingsbury, Middleton and Wormleighton Res (max. two). Worcs Bred at Upton Warren, where three chicks were seen on June 6th; and probably at Westwood, where adults were present in April and June, and up to two juveniles during August-September. Noted at seven sites in late winter and 14 in autumn. Upton Warren produced the best numbers as usual, with up to six in January and ten during October-November. Other concentrations included six at Westwood on October 30th, four at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 2nd and three at Strensham Lagoons on 12th. Staffs The scatter of records received reflected the secretive nature of this bird. At Doxey Marshes, there were again twelve pairs in the breeding season of which eight were on the reserve, underlining the positive effect of site management. Possible breeding was also reported from Pool Dam Marsh (Newcastle), while three were calling at Betley Mere on August 28th. Dur- ing the winter months small numbers were reported from Aqualate, Belvide, Betley Mere, Chasewater, Chillington, Copmere, Ford Green and Rudyard. 59

W Mid Almost certainly bred at Clayhanger, where calling birds were heard in May and an adult with two well-grown juveniles were seen during early September. During the early months birds were present up to April 1st, with regular records from Fens Pools (up to two), Mushroom Green Marsh (at least three), Netherton (Dudley Canal), Sandwell Valley (up to two) and Sheepwash UP. Additional reports came from Harborne NR on January 1st-3rd and Wyken Slough (two) on March 24th. After two at Meriden GP on August 28th and one at Fens Pools on September 7th-8th, there were regular records from October-December at: Fens Pools (three), Mushroom Green Marsh (max. six on October 29th), Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP (two). There was also one at some small pools on Netherton Hill during December, with further singles at Stubber's Green on November 11th and Wyken Slough on December 14th.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Has bred (7/10). Warks A well-watched bird was at Brandon from August 23rd-September 3rd PWC, SMH et al. This was the first county record since 1989 (also at Brandon), and only the fifth since 1980. Of these, apart from one in April all arrived during August, with three between 20th-24th. Worcs A juvenile at Strensham Lagoons from September 6th-8th SMW et al.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident. Warks Very little significant breeding data received. Maxima included 34 at Alvecote, 39 at Brandon, 22 at Middleton Hall and 20 at Wormleighton Res. Worcs Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Bittell 7 11 3 13 - 5 9 35 32 21 26 15 Pirton 15 8 15 12 8 8 15 21 38 19 21 22 Upton Warren 14 12 12 14 19 16 26 50 41 19 28 11

Breeding records received from nine sites, the largest concentration being five broods at Mill Pond (Malvern). Staffs Clearly under-recorded, with breeding birds reported from just six sites. The largest counts were of 18 at Kettlebrook Lake (Tamworth) on January 15th, 20 at Doxey from August onwards, at least 35 at Chasewater during the autumn, 33 at Betley Mere on November 25th and 29 at Ford Green on December 12th. W Mid Breeding reported from 15 localities, with four pairs at Wyken Slough the only concentration of note. A very poor breeding season was commented upon at Park Lime Pits, with no young reared. Highest counts comprised 17 at Stubber's Green in January, 22 at Wyken Slough on September 16th and 56 along the Staffs and Worcs canal in Valley Park on December 31 st. One was chased by a cat in Handsworth Wood on a wet evening in January, a site more than 400m from the nearest water! 60

Coot Fulica atra Common resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima al main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Alvecote 62 58 29 16 - 80 80 63 78 98 45 40 Coton 662 499 360 54 37 92 233 349 645 989 697 956 Dosthill 237 108 85 - - - 140 - - 579 778 606 Draycote 185 161 250 87 81 107 180 204 450 495 550 1300 Blsharrpton Vale Pool 65 30 - - 3 16 - - 43 55 67 50 Bittell 30 15 14 20 - 28 28 52 33 40 33 20 Pirton 120 48 33 29 57 57 114 148 223 188 193 184 Upton Warren 9 20 22 25 35 66 70 76 75 77 70 35 Westwood - - - - 37 76 - 265 290 150 - - Wilden 31 40 26 - 37 - - 56 55 51 68 62 Aqualate 2 59 16 10 20 90 280 357 13 2 4 11 Belvide 400 356 220 100 173 335 545 620 826 2 7 27 Betley Mere 22 20 35 28 - 35 83 148 170 96 258 - Blithlield 163 142 29 - - 542 - - - - Chasewater 646 210 157 - 171 395 649 743 779 810 Kettlebrook 38 29 30 20 16 28 28 32 30 32 30 35 Tittesworth 4 10 25 36 30 9 - 1 1 1 1 1 Westport 162 79 50 - - - - 130 196 156 122 101 Wyken Slough 55 50 40 34 37 48 63 55 61 63 45 100

Warks Only two pairs bred at Ladywalk (cf. five in 1994), with five at Packington. A slight increase on recent poor years was noted at Brandon. Post-breeding numbers continue to be high at Coton, Dosthill and Draycote. Worcs Broods reported from: Beckford (three), Bishampton Vale Pool (four), Bittell, Grimley, Holt, Little Witley (two), Mill Pond, Timberhonger and Upton Warren (ten). Other maxima included 75 at Larford on January 15th and 55 at Bredon's Hardwick on December 10th. Staffs Up to 30 pairs bred at Chasewater again aided by high water levels, contrasting with only three pairs at both Belvide (cf. 17 in 1994) and Tittesworth which were probably due to low water. The only other significant concentration of breeding pairs reported were nine pairs at Kettlebrook Lake. A rapid decline in numbers at Belvide at the beginning of September was due to the rapid fall of the water level there. Other good-sized flocks included 450 at Copmere (a site record) on January 1st and 100 at Doxey on September 9th. W Mid Breeding pairs recorded at: Haden Hill Park (two), Meriden GP (at least ten), Park Lime Pits (three), Lifford Res, Sandwell Valley, Stubber's Green, Sutton Park and Wyken Slough (18, increased for the third year running). The only other notable concentrations came from Fens Pools, where there were 213 on September 30th; and Sandwell Valley, with 162 in October and 250 in December.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeding bird, mainly in the Trent and Tame valleys. Warks Two pairs were present at the same site as last year, arriving on February 27th and leaving on July 29th. Only one pair was successful, with one of two chicks reaching the flying stage. Other records from the Tame valley included up to three on six dates at Ladywalk and three dates at Shustoke. Elsewhere 61

in the county most records came from Draycote. Here there were singles on April 8th-9th and May 13th, six on July 21st and up to four from November 24th-December 14th. One also at Brandon on May 13th. Worcs One arrived back at Bredon's Hardwick on February 25th, and a pair were present there from March 18th-July 2nd, with three on April 3rd and four on 16th. Unfortunately there was no evidence of breeding this year. Upton Warren also saw its first of the year on February 25th, followed by two on April 18th and singles on 28th, June 8th and 10th, and December 3rd. Singles also at Trimpley Res on April 6th, heard over Little Comberton just after midnight on July 31st and at Bittell on November 13th. Staffs Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Barton - 5 2 2 3 2 4 - - 1 - - Belvide - 1 1 2 4 1 1 1 1 - - - Blithfield - - - 1 2 3 - 2 - 1 - Branston - 2 2 1 ------Chasewater - 3 6 - - 1 - - - - 2 - Croxall - 1 3 3 5 2 Dosthill - 5 5 3 ------Elford - 7 10 10 10 15 10 Titteswoith - - 4 3 1 2 - - - Westport - 1 1 - 1 Other sites (six) - 1 3 7 2 3 1 No breeding reports received this year, though pairs presumably at least attempted at the usual sites. W Mid A single bird at Meriden GP on February 13th, with a pair in the same area on April 23rd, 30th and May 20th-21st. Two were in Sandwell Valley on February 24th and one on March 1st. Further singles were reported from Sheepwash UP on May 19th, Stubber's Green on June 14th, Bartley on September 8th and Dunstall Park on November 15th and 17th.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Very rare vagrant (3/10).

Black-winged Stilts (John Teasdale) 62

The sixth Regional record, the last being at Croxall GP in 1991. Of these records, three involved two birds together. Staffs Two were present at Blithfield on May 11th tSC, AGJ, VM et al.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant (6/10). There have been several November records in the Region, but this was the first for December. What may have been the same bird later visited Pitsford Res, Northants on 12th. Staffs One at Barton GP on December 3rd ESC.

Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Very rare vagrant, though formerly bred south Worcs and possibly south Warks until mid-19th century (1/10). One of the chief prizes of 1995, the only other recent record being at Bartley/ Frankley Res on May 6th 1991. Worcs One found on Bredon Hill on May 1 st WFP et al. was only the second county record this century. The species bred on this hill until the 1840's.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Average: March 20th (31)- October 2nd (31) The first spring birds appeared at Upton Warren on March 11th and Sandwell Valley on 12th, with the main passage beginning a week later. The last autumn record came from Shustoke on October 9th. Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A S 0 Dosthill 5 9 a 7 13 1 1 - Draycole 1 4 4 1 14 3 5 - Bittell - 1 - 3 2 1 - - Bredon's Hardwick 5 6 4 2 - - 2 - Grimley 2 6 6 5 7 - - - Kinsham GP 1 3 5 - 4 - - - Ryall GP - 2 2 2 4 - - - Strensham Lagoons - 3 4 1 - - - - Upton Warren 9 13 14 13 25 5 3 - Alrewas 6 5 6 4 - - - - Barton - 7 10 9 26 10 - - Belvide 1 5 8 8 20 4 6 3 Blithfield - 5 2 9 27 11 5 - Branston - 4 1 - - - - - Chasewater 1 3 3 - - 1 1 - Croxall 1 6 5 4 - - - - Doxey - 4 1 6 12 - - - Ellord - 2 4 S - - - - Tlttesworlh - 3 5 3 5 6 3 - Westport - 1 1 - - - - - Other sites (seven) 1 7 4 10 14 4 - Sandwell Valley 1 4 4 4 4 - - - Sheepwash UP 3 4 7 7 8 - - -

Warks Pairs successfully bred at Blyth Hall (three), Brandon, Dosthill (four), Lady- walk (two) and Wasperton (two), with possible nesting at Alvecote and Dray- 63

cote (two). Up to seven occurred at Brandon and eight at both Middleton and Shustoke, with a few more at the other main waters on passage. Worcs Single pairs bred at Bredon's Hardwick and Grimley. However, the star performer was Upton Warren, where eight pairs produced ten chicks, six of which fledged. Breeding attempts at Hyall GP were unsuccessful due to flooding, and later by tipping. Also failed to breed at Lower Moor for the first time for seven years due to habitat changes there. Others noted at Aston Mill, Bishampton Vale Pool and Wilden. Staffs Pairs bred successfully at: Belvide (three), Blithfield, Doxey (two), Rudyard, Silverdale Colliery, Tlttesworth (two) and Trysull Quarry (two). WMid A better year, with proven breeding at Bartley Res (at least three broods reared during very low water levels, with up to 12 chicks seen), Bilston (former steelworks site), Meriden GP, Sheepwash UP (two pairs in the area, one seen with three young) and Somers Road GP. Two pairs failed again in Sandwell Valley due to corvid or Moorhen predation, while a pair displayed near Dunstall Park Lake during April-May, where the species bred last year. Four were seen here on June 11th, with an adult and juvenile on July 6th and 11th but these were thought to have come from elsewhere. On spring passage, there were singles in Goscote Valley on May 10th and at Stubber's Green from March 22nd-May 10th, with two on April 7th and 10th and a further singleton noted on May 24th.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Frequent passage migrant and scarce summer resident. Rare in mid-winter. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Doslhlll - 4 2 3 3 5 3 - - - - Draycote 3 4 4 7 - 5 11 14 2 - - Bredon's Hardwick - - 1 2 - - 1 2 - - - Grimley - - - 1 1 - - 1 - - - Upton Warren - 1 1 8 1 1 8 4 - - - Alrewas 2 12 5 1 ------Barton 22 9 24 7 7 24 5 - - - - Belvide 1 - 2 12 5 3 12 11 1 - BlithReld - - - 7 11 6 20 IS 3 - Branston 16 - 4 1 Chasewater - - 2 - 4 3 1 - 1 Croxall - 12 10 6 4 - 3 - - - - Doxey - - - 1 - - 1 - - - - Ellord 1 Titteswoith - - - 1 1 - 1 2 - - - Westport - - - 1 - - 1 1 - - - Olher sites (six) - - 4 1 4 7 4 - - - -

Bartley - - 2 6 1 - 2 4 - - -

Warks A pair attempted to breed at Brandon for the first time. At least two pairs were present in the Dosthill area, one producing three young and the other thought to have been thwarted by corvids. Display was also regular at Draycote but with probably no nesting attempt made. Worcs The only others to be reported were three at Wilden on April 17th and singles at Lower Moor on May 18th and at Bittell on August 2nd. 64

Staffs Two pairs bred at Croxall and one at Westport. An unusual mid-winter record concerned a bird at Chasewater from December 16th-20th. W Mid An excellent series of records from Bartley, with birds noted on 18 dales and maxima of eight on May 8th, six on 9th, five on 10th and four on September 3rd. In Sandwell Valley, singles were seen on April 21st, May 15th-18th and 20th, with two on 21st, one on June 3rd and four on August 22nd. Further singles at Wyken Slough on March 14th, Fens Pools on August 20th and November 13th, and at Sheepwash UP on September 3rd and October 12th.

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus Rare passage migrant (1/10). Although the fifteenth Regional record this was only the second in recent years, the last being at Draycote in May 1993. It was also the first June report. Staffs An adult male at Tittesworth on June 15th RJH was present for just twenty minutes during the early morning before departing to the south. 1993 Corrigendum

Warks This bird was the fourteenth Regional record and not the twelfth as stated.

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce and probably now erratic breeder on North Staffs Moors. Average: August 11th (47) -April27th (49) The last in spring was at Bilston on May 8th. There were several returns in July-August though with no recorded dates making it impossible to calculate the average this year. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Dosthill 200 35 50 110 _ _ - - 80 105 200 Draycote 80 200 70 - - 2 - 30 60 80 104 Bredon's Hardwick 89 700 200 160 - - - - 400 1400 300 Lower Moor ------1 120 50 60 Powick Ham 250 100 500 Upton Warren 10 20 3 1 7 10 17 Barton 9 60 2 - 19 35 9 Belvide - - 441 - - - 1 - - 180 - Blithtield 30 6 5 3 100 3 Chasewater 160 50 ------28 12 Crossplains - - 230 - - - - - 500 400 - Croxall 25 1 500 620 39 Dasthiil 30 300 200 85 Doxey 1256 1000 - - - - - 1 - 200 150 Park Hall CP 680 - 40 220 - 7 9 240 130 600 Stafford Common 1200 ------20 Other sites (11) 21 121 4 4 70 19 44 Hockley Heath 500 1000 300 Sheepwash UP 1 9 1 - 2 9 400 Spring Vale, Bilston 400 400 700 900 1 ------Stubber's Green 9 350 82 -

Warks Poorly documented this year, though numbers seemed genuinely low. At Wellesbourne Airfield the only notable count early in the year was 500 in February, while other good-sized flocks included 850 at Lawford Heath Tip on Great White Egret at Meriden CP in July; the second Regional record (Keith Stone).

This first-summer Spoonbill was a much appreciated visitor to Blithfield in July (Keith Stone). t /

Blithfield also attracted this fine Black-winged Stilt, one of a couple, in May (Keith Stone).

Sanderling passage, like other waders, was unusually poor in 1995. This one was photographed at Chasewater in May (Phill Ward). 65

January 1st, 250 over Lillington on February 12th and 420 at Gaydon on April 1st. Autumn numbers were generally down on last year, with the only reasonable sized flocks being 900 at Chesterton on November 19th, 1830 at Wellesbourne Airfield on 24th and 600 at Gaydon on 26th. Worcs Away from tabulated sites the most significant counts included 60 north over Kempsey and 500 at Longdon Marsh on January 1st, 800 at Upton-on- Severn on 7th, 30 at Throckmorton on 14th, 150 at Aston Mill on March 26th, 55 on Bredon Hill on October 22nd, 150 at Ryall on November 26th, 125 at Besford on December 16th and 80 at Bittell on 20th. Smaller numbers at: Ashmoor Common, Birlingham, Bishampton Vale Pool, Fladbury, Holt, Kempsey Common, Strensham, Tlbberton, Throckmorton and Wilden. Staffs There were no breeding reports from the Moors again this year. W Mid Also regularly recorded at Bowmans Harbour, Wednesfield during October with a peak of 410 on 22nd, while another observer reported large movements in the same area in November, including 'hundreds'flying east on 14th and 'thousands' next day. A flock of 500 flew over Valley Park on March 26th, while small numbers appeared at nine further sites including maxima of 40 in Sandwell Valley on January 29th, 35 east over Wyken Slough on February 1st, 38 over Chelmsley Wood on 26th. 19 near Park Limo Pita on Novem- ber I si, 12 south-west over Dorridge on 13th, 18 over Marston Green on December 9th and 15 at Bickenhill on 10th.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A much better year. First recorded at Draycote on April 15th, with further spring singles there on 19th and on May 6th-7th. Four were at Middleton on April 23rd and two remained at Dosthill from May 6th-9th. A late summer bird at Dosthill on July 27th was followed by autumn singles at Draycote on November 12th and 21st, and again on December 5th. Worcs An impressive flock of eight flew over Bredon village on April 5th RWP, but after this the only records were of singles at Bredon's Hardwick on May 15th- 16th, over Upton Warren on November 14th and December 31st, and roosting on ice at Westwood on December 30th. Staffs The year began well with six at Belvide on January 5th. However subsequent passage proved very poor, with a complete lack of spring birds for the first time since 1979. Autumn passage began with singles at Belvide on August 2nd and Blithfield on 5th. In September there was one at Blithfield on 13th, with four there on 15th and 17th-18th, and singles at Belvide on 29th and Blithfield on October 7th. The year ended with another at Blithfield on December 31st. W Mid One flew through Sheepwash UP on April 13th.

Lapwing Vaneiius vaneilus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Fairly common, though declining, breeding species. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

Dosthill 1000 1000 300 550 1500 800 66

J h M A M J J 4 R O N D Bittell 202 157 100 141 66 Grimley 2000 ------200 - 320 - - Longdon Marsh 2000 5000 300 Strensham ------250 250 400 - - Upton Warren 1000 1500 700 32 30 90 280 585 290 1400 1500 3000 Barton 265 1260 4 9 13 17 40 - 540 S10 650 825 Belvide - - 12 - 16 - 868 608 - - 28 25 Blilhfield 63 90 - - - 16 - 1000 - 54 236 - Chasewater 220 93 - 3 1 - 20 58 30 70 247 415 Croxall 1150 1850 76 46 14 94 - 55 350 500 570 1000 Doxey 2400 500 10 - - 52 180 - 349 500 - Kings Bromley 790 47 21 2 11 6 240 335 150 65 14 - Paifc Hall CP 400 79 160 164 240 220 280 Rudyard 75 600 - - 100 350 Sandwell Valley - - - - - 53 55 70 60 36 11 140 Sheepwash UP 54 SO 12 7 6 7 15 13 3 32 67 100

Warks Seven pairs bred at Packington, with five at The Somers and four in the Coombe/Walsgrave Hill area. At Ladywalk, management work on the marsh encouraged an increase to eight pairs, with at least 30 juveniles present in late May. One or two pairs also bred at Anstey, Brandon, Dosthill, Keresley Newland and Wasperton. There were fewer large counts this year, with late winter maxima of 960 at Draycote, 400 at Whatcote and 350 at Radway. Post- breeding flocks included 1000 at Gaydon, 800 at Sherbourne, 650 at Bran- don, 600 at Fenny Compton and 520 at Kineton. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from: Aston Mill (two), Broadheath, Larford, Stan- ford Bridge, Tlbberton (two), Timberhonger and Upton Warren (ten, producing 18 chicks of which nine fledged). Numerous flocks were reported in the non-breeding season, the largest being 1500 at Upton-on-Severn on January 7th, 3000 at Holt on 19th and 2500 at Bredon's Hardwick on August 16th. Staffs Breeding pairs at: Acton Trussed (two), Aqualate (six), Baswich (six), Belvide (nine), Blithfield, Doxey (11), Hazel Barrow, Milford (13), Pendeford Mill, Radford (three) and Rawbones Meadow. Away from tabulated sites, more isolated counts included maxima of 1500 at Whitemoor Hay and 1000 at Borrowpit Lake (Tamworth), Dosthill/Fishers Mill and Rickerscote in January, 2000 at Alrewas and 500 at Aqualate in February, 705 by the R.Dove in May, 1000 at Crossplains and 400 at Rocester in October, and 980 at Talke in December. W Mid Up to ten pairs bred in Sandwell Valley and four at Sheepwash UP, however heavy corvid predation at the latter site resulted in only one young fledging. Single pairs bred at the former Bilston Steelworks site (Spring Vale), Stubber's Green and probably Somers Road GP. The largest flocks reported included 300 at Stubber's Green on January 24th, 118 flying north over Wyken Slough on February 1st, 217 at Clayhanger on October 4th, a peak of 200 at Park Lime Pits on November 5th, 160 at Aldridge and up to 200 at Bickenhill on 26th, 580 at Stubber's Green on 27th, a peak of 530 at Dunstall Park on December 4th and a cold weather movement of 138 south-south- west over Mons Hill on 16th. 67

Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Another poor year. Singles were at Draycote on June 11th, August 29th and November 25th, and at Dosthill on the more unusual date of December 31st. Staffs Singles in spring at Barton GP on March 4th, Belvide on April 1st and Blithfield on May 22nd. Return passage began with one at Blithfield on July 26th, with further singles there on August 9th and 30th. In September two appeared at Belvide on 7th, followed by four at Blithfield on 6th, one at Rudyard on 10th-11th, six through Blithfield and one at Chasewater on 20th, and finally two at Belvide on 21st and 24th. Blithfield produced later sightings of singles on October 26th and December 17th.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 14th (6) - September 30th (6) Warks The only spring records involved singles at Shustoke on May 16th and Dosthill on 20th, 22nd and 24th. One at Shustoke on July 15th was the only return passage bird. One at Draycote on the unusual date of December 30th. Worcs The only records were singles at Bredon's Hardwick on May 2lst and Ryall GP on 27th. Staffs Spring passage began with two at both Belvide on April 29th and Blithfield on 30th. In May, one at Belvide on 15th, was followed by two at Chasewater on 17th and a good series at Barton GP, with one there on 21st, eight on 22nd and four on 23rd. Chasewater then had one on 27th, two on 28th and one the next day. Return passage was very sparse with just singles in July at Belvide and Blithfield on 22nd and again at Belvide on 26th. W Mid Singles at Bartley on April 30th and on May 6th, 8th and 17th; with one also in Sandwell Valley on 17th.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon though variable autumn passage migrant. Scarce in spring and rare in winter. Average passage: May 12th (6) - October 30th (6) Warks Two at Draycote on June 11th were followed in autumn by singles on August 10th and 28th-29th, and on September 8th-9th, 13th-16th, 21st and 23rd- 28th. Singles at Middleton on September 22nd and Dosthill on 24th were the only records from elsewhere. Worcs Two juveniles visited Upton Warren on October 6th. Staffs No spring records this year. Return passage began with one at Belvide on July 2nd, followed by small influxes in late July and late August. The main passage occurred from September 8th-October 10th, followed by a another small influx from October 22nd-November 3rd. At the main sites, Blithfield held birds on 26 dates from July 18th-November 3rd, with a maximum of seven on September 12th-13th and 15th. Belvide had birds on 14 dates from July 2nd-September 24th with a peak of four on September 14th-15th, while Chasewater had birds on seven dates from September 11th-18th and on October 22nd, max. five on September 16th. Elsewhere there were singles at 68

Barton GP on July 26th, HUdyaid on Auguct 22nd and Tittesworth on September 9th, with two there on 16th. W Mid One at Fens Pools briefly on September 9th.

Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring. Average passage: May 8th (5) - September 9th (2) The first year without a record since 1983.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Rare passage vagrant, mainly in autumn (6/10). Worcs One at Bredon's Hardwick on September 5th SUH, followed by a very obliging juvenile at Bishampton Vale Pool from October 22nd-31st GHP et al. Staffs An immature at Blithfield on September 29th ESC, GE.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon though variable autumn passage migrant. Scarce in spring. Average passage: May 11th (4) - October 17th (6) The December bird at Draycote was the latest ever in the Region. Warks The worst year since 1989 (when there were none), with just two at Draycote on August 13th and one there on the unusual date of December 3rd. Worcs An adult at Upton Warren from July 26th-28th. Staffs In spring there was one at Barton GP on May 7th and two at Belvide on 16th- 17th. Return passage began at Blithfield with a singleton on August 26th- 27th, followed by four there from September 8th-10th and 12th. The latter period also produced one at Tittesworth on 6th-7th increasing to three on 8th, a day when there were also four at Belvide, and one at Rudyard on 10th-11th. The last bird of the autumn was seen at Chasewater on October 10th.

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Rare passage migrant. Very rare in winter (7/10). Staffs One at Westport on December 7th WJL.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Dosihlll 46 6 4 3 11 1 1 3 4 - 5 - Draycote 5 8 10 3 4 - 15 3 6 7 3 7 Bittell - - - - 1 2 - 1 2 - - 7 Bredon's Hardwick 8 130 21 14 5 11 - - . 1 - 1 - Upton Warren 2 2 5 4 7 - 2 4 2 2 2 3 Alrewas - 12 26 7 3 ------Barton 8 13 5 S 15 2 3 4 - - 1 2 Belvide 5 5 2 5 35 3 9 25 14 5 6 9 Blllhfletd - - 2 5 3 4 13 31 30 16 14 33 Chasewater 2 2 - - 3 - 1 2 6 6 3 4 Tittesworth - - - - 4 - 2 5 4 - 3 2 Other sites (11) 92 22 4 4 6 1 - 3 20 2 6 1 69

J F M A M J J A S O N D Bartley 3 7 5 2 3 Sandwell Valley - - 2 3 1 - iu 2 - 2 Shocpwash UP 2 1 1 1 2

Warks The only sizeable count this year involved a southerly movement of at least 46 with Lapwings through Dosthill on January 22nd. Elsewhere there was only a maximum of three at Shustoke, with singles elsewhere in the Tame valley and at Brandon. Worcs Wintering singles at Grimley, Holt, Larford and Lower Moor, with three at Westwood on January 6th. More impressive were 53 at Longdon Marsh on February 19th taking advantage of local flooding. In a rather poor spring, smaller sites struggled to record the species. Up to three at Kinsham and two at Strensham was all May could muster. Autumn was no better, with just two at Grimley and a couple of singles at Bishampton Vale Pool from September- November. Staffs A very poor year. W Mid Away from the main sites, two were at Stubber's Green on January 6th, with singles at the old Bilston Steelworks on April 30th, Dunstall Park Lake on May Bth and November 20th, and Wyken Slough on September 8th.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis Very rare autumn vagrant (2/10). Only the fifth Regional record, but amazingly the third for this site in consecutive years. Warks A juvenile was seen at Draycote on September 7th AC.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax Frequent though variable passage migrant. Scarce in winter. Monthly maxima at main sites:

JFMAMJ JASOND Dosthill -----3121--- Draycote ------2353-2 Bredon's Hardwick — — 81 — — — — 2 — — 1 Upton Warren --1--2124--- Belvide ---71-133--- Blithtield ----17 8 10 1011- Other sites (six) ---7- - 11 78---

Warks A very poor year at the main sites, with just five other records. These involved singles at Ladywalk on May 13th; Brandon on June 24th, July 12th-13th and 25th; and at Baginton Lagoons on August 28th. Worcs The only others were singles at Bittell on July 13th, Kinsham GP on August 4th and Wilden on October 10th. Staffs A poor year. W Mid Three were on the former Bilston Steelworks site from April 16th-27th. One near Dunstall Park Lake on June 27th was the first local record. Autumn passage produced singles at Bartley on August 31st and Sandwell Valley on September 19th-20th. 70

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Average: September 26th (54) - April 20th (50) Last seen at Upton Warren on April 30th, with the first return at Brandon on the early date of September 7th. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J FMAM J JASOND Abberton 6 7 4 1 - - 2 3 3 Ashmoor Common 1 2 1 1 - Bittell 3 3 6 - Castlemorton Common 11 13 4 1 Grimley 7 - 18 _ _ 1 - - Upton Warren 7 7 3 2 - - 2 3 2 Wilden 2 5 2 _ - - - Chasewater 5 3 1 2 1 1 Ford Green - 10 1 Hill Ridware 2 1 2 2 - - 1 - Little Wyrtey 3 - 4 2 - - 8 2 - - Other sites (six) 1 - 4 1 - - 3 4 4 Sandwel Valley - 2 3 2 - 4 Sheepwash UP 1 1 1 - - — — 1 1 Warks More reported than last year though still scarce. During the first quarter, singles were found at Coton, Dosthill (four dates up to April 23rd) and Dray- cote (three dates). There were also two at both Chase Lane (Kenilworth) on January 8th and Dosthill on February 4th, while five were seen at Lighthome Quarry on March 25th. In autumn there were singles at Brandon on five dates from September 7th-December 29th, with others at Chase Lane, Dosthill, Ladywalk, Lea Marston and Priors Marston. Three were at Alvecote on November 6th. Worcs Higher numbers than usual were present during the early months, with an exceptional count of 18 at Grimley on March 12th MJi, GJM being a new county record. Staffs The largest count was of ten at Ford Green on February 14th. W Mid Away from the tabulated sites, there was one at Wyken Slough from January 15th-March 3rd with two on February 10th. Singles at Meriden GP on February 13th and the old Bilston Steelworks site on March 31st, with two there on April 18th. Later in the year records came only from Fens Pools, with one on October 22nd, three from 27th-November 13th and one on December 28th. Continues to be a scarce or overlooked species.

Common Snipe Galiinago gallinago Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent though declining breeder. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Brandon 1 6 12 7 - 1 5 39 24 22 31 29 Abberton 45 35 14 12 10 10 Ashmoor Common 28 30 29 ------14 Bittell 38 32 6 - - - - 10 5 4 4 1 Castlemorlon Common 49 70 49 3 - - - - 3 1 - 36 Grimley 11 - 5 - - - 1 5 22 - - - 71

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Upton Warren 60 80 124 40 3 1 4 25 25 32 84 30 Wilden 15 14 13 4 - - 6 13 26 15 21 Barton 2 2 4 3 - - 4 14 2 11 11 9 Belvide 1 - 43 - - - - 20 - - - - Blithfield 7 - 30 - - - 7 25 30 - - 5 Chasewater 27 23 9 - 1 1 - 1 7 7 6 - Croxall - 77 48 5 - - - 5 1 7 11 Hill Ridware 16 18 17 9 1 - - 13 19 87 6 15 Other sites (27) 15 34 129 63 4 2 7 85 6 25 - 80 Sandwell Valley 5 10 - 19 - - - 6 7 4 10 4 Sheepwash UP 12 10 9 2 - - 1 2 4 5 12 13 Wyken Slough 6 35 20 - 1 - - - 4 - 10 15 Warks The only reports of drumming came from The Somers (two) and Lighthorne Quarry during the spring, but unfortunately at both sites subsequent breeding was thought unlikely. Wintering and passage numbers were also down with 50 at Lighthorne Quarry on March 30th the best count, while other maxima included ten at Alvecote, 24 at both Dosthill and Eathorpe, ten at Napton Res and 25 at Wormleighton Res. Worcs Worryingly, there was only one breeding season report: at Clifton (near Severn Stoke). Isolated winter counts came from six further sites, the largest being 33 at Holt on January 1st. One at Broadway GP also on January 1st was the first recorded there for five years. Staffs Breeding reported only from Doxey (five pairs), with drumming birds reported on the North Staffs Moors at Goldsitch Moss and Middle Hills. W Mid Displaying birds were reported from Clayhanger and Sutton Park, where two or three were seen. 50 were flushed from Brueton Park, Solihull in January. Elsewhere, there were peaks of only eight at Spring Vale, Bilston on March 24th and seven at Park Lime Pits on December 26th, with one-five at: Bumble Hole, Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Fens Pools, Foots Hole, Mushroom Green, Stubber's Green, Sutton Park, Woodgate Valley and Woodsetton.

Great Snipe Gallinago media Very rare passage vagrant, though more plentiful last century (0/10).

Great Snipe (Phil Jones) 72

One of the year's highlights for those who rnanayed to ooe it, a full account appears in Short Notes. All credit goes to the finder for his persistance following initial scepticism, a lesson for us all! W Mid One in Sandwell Valley on August 22nd PMH et al. was an excellent find and constitutes only the third Regional record since 1916, the last coming from Whittington SF (Staffs) on April 25th 1954.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks Roding birds were seen in fewer areas, with records from only Close Wood, Umberslade and Wappenbury Wood, possibly due to poor weather suppress- ing the amount of aerial display. Winter records were fairly widespread with maxima of three at both Brandon and Fenny Compton in November, and one or two at: BAD Kineton, Bishop's Gorse (Lighthorne), Compton Wyn- yates, Coton, Draycote, Edge Hill, Itchington Holt, Ladywalk, Shustoke and Upton. Worcs Roding birds were noted on the Malverns from British Camp-The Gullet (four, cf. eight in 1994), and at Callow Hill, Dowles Brook, Hayslad, Monk Wood and Swinyard Hill. Outside the breeding season records came from: Bittell, Bredon Hill (four), Bredon Village, Castlemorton Common, Hewell Grange, Lower Moor, Upton Warren, Wilden (four), Wirehill Wood and Woodbury Hill. Staffs Roding birds were noted on Cannock Chase at Katyn Memorial and Seven Springs, and at Little Wyrley. Altogether reports came from only eight sites in the months of February, May-July and in November-December. These were mainly of singles, with a maximum of four at Seven Springs on June 20th. The most unusual place was a Stone garden where one appeared during a cold spell on December 28th. W Mid Roding birds were again noted on the county boundary near Close Wood (Meriden), with two at Cuckoo's Nook. Additionally a bird was seen in a wood at Berkswell on August 15th, an area where breeding may still occur. There was an increase in winter records this year, with reports up to April 3rd and from November 5th. Birds were seen on five dates each at Fens Pools and Sandwell Valley, three dates at Sheepwash UP, twice at Netherton Hill, with singles at Brades Hall, Oldbury and Valley Park. Also reported to be seen occasionally in Hayhead Wood. An unusual record concerned one flying over Westbourne Road, Edgbaston on March 12th.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Average passage: March 17th (6) - October 17th (6) Warks The worst year since 1988 with just eight or nine birds. Two at Draycote on March 25th, were followed by singles on 26th and April 9th. Three were at Dosthill on May 17th, followed by singles at Ladywalk on July 5th and Coton on August 28th. Worcs After one at Bredon's Hardwick on March 26th-27th, all further records related to Upton Warren. There were six here from May 14th-16th, three flew east on 73

July 14th, with two present on August 2nd and 25th, and one on 27th. Staffs The only spring records concerned one at Belvide on April 20th-21st increasing to three on 22nd. and singles at Blithfield on April 21st and May 12lh. Return passage began with seven at Belvide on June 25th, followed by three on July 4th, nine on 5th, five on 21st, with five again from August 8th- 13th dropping to three on 14th-15th. Blithfield held birds on 13 dates between July 7th-September 8th, with a peak of six on August 14th. Other sites to hold birds during this period were: Chasewater, one on July 11th; Ooxey, four on August 19th; Rudyard, one on August 26th, seven on 27th, and then singles on 28th, 30th and September 4th; and Tittesworth, one on September 6th. W Mid Three flew south-east over Swan Pool, Sandwell Valley on April 22nd, with one noted here on May 18th. One flying over Great Bridge on August 18th.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: March 31st (6) - October 4th (6) Warks A better year than last, but still only five birds involved. Singles were at Draycote on April 9th, 22nd and 28th, at Dosthill on 30th, and at Draycote again on May 6th-7th. Staffs The only spriny bird visited Barton GP on March 13th. Autumn passage produced one at Blithfield on August 8th, followed by nine there on September 3rd and three on October 10th, while singles were at Little Wyrley on August 23rd and at Chasewater on October 7th. The year ended with one at Chasewater on December 31 st.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Average passage: April 14th (6) - September 28th (6) Warks Apart from one large party it was an average year. Spring passage com- menced with four at Draycote on April 22nd, two there on 29th and a notable 33 passing through on 30th. Passage continued with singles at Dosthill on May 1st and 3rd, Brandon on 9th and Shustoke on 13th. On return passage singles at Dosthill on July 15th and 21st, were followed by a creditable six on 25th. On a very wet August 29th three called and circled around Dosthill for at least an hour and one flew over Coton. An injured bird was at Ladywalk on October 8th and another late one flew over Lawford Heath on 15th. Worcs One at Bredon's Hardwick on April 27th, with nine there on 28th, and singles on 30th, May 12th and 14th. The bird on May 12th had been seen at Kinsham earlier the same day. Spring passage at Upton Warren started with one on April 30th, after which there were four on May 1st, two from 3rd-5th and one on 21st. One was heard calling as it departed Bishampton Vale Pool early on May 19th. As usual, scarcer on return migration. There were singles at Upton Warren on July 16th and September 9th, with four at Bredon's Hardwick on July 27th and one there on August 30th. Staffs Spring passage began on April 25th when one was seen at Belvide and two at Barton GP, followed by two at Belvide and Wetley Moor on 28th, and singles at Tittesworth on 29th and Blithfield on 30th. Tittesworth also held one 74

on May 3rd and two on 7th, whilo cingles were seen at Branston on 14th and at Blithfield on 19th and 21st. Return passage began with two at blithtield on July 3rd, followed by three at Barton GP on 15th, seven at Belvide on 26th dropping to four next day, and another at Barton on 29th. August produced one at Belvide on 25th, with three there on 30th and again on September 4th. W Mid One flew north-west over Wyken Slough on April 17th, followed by three north-east on 23rd. Singles flew in and landed at Bartley Res on April 19th and 30th. One was heard calling in flight over Woodshires Green at 00.15hrs on July 31st.

Curlew Numenius arquata Fairiy common summer resident and passage migrant. Frequent in winter. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Upton Warren 2 28 67 40 14 55 101 91 101 97 65 29 Barton 17 17 11 - - _ 2 - - 16 Belvide - - 3 S - - ' 7 14 11 3 - - Blithfield - 2 1 - 2 - 1 13 1 - - 1 Longsdon Mill Pool - 60 90 ------Tittesworth - 32 310 15 8 10 3 3 2 24 4 - Other sites (ten) - - 7 27 13 11 14 - 1 - - - Warks A pair bred at Priors Hardwick, with breeding display noted at Admington, Austrey, Hurley, Maxstoke, Polesworth and Tysoe. At Ladywalk the first birds returned by January 21st, with the roost building up to a peak of 24 on February 20th. The post-breeding flock peaked at 25 (including six juveniles) on July 22nd. Elsewhere less than five were reported on passage at Draycote from February-April and in August, and from several further sites. Worcs Breeding was confirmed between Tibberton and Trench, where up to six were seen with a juvenile on June 26th. Other breeding season records came from: Abberton, Arley Wood, Aston Mill, Bredon's Hardwick, Eckington, Guarlford, Holt, Kinsham, Little Comberton (where unusual), Lower Moor, Lower Stren- sham, Monkwood Green, Oakley, Ockeridge, Peopleton, Rock, Strensham and Timberhonger. Away from Upton Warren the largest flocks reported were of 21 at Holt on March 20th, 22 at Grimley on July 2nd and 34 on set-aside at West Hagley on December 24th. Small numbers also at Bittell, Larford and Westwood. Staffs No useful breeding data received, though still widespread on the northern moorlands. W Mid One was seen at llley on March 10th, whilst singles flew through Sheepwash UP on March 12th and June 11th, and north-east over Park Lime Pits on April 29th. One was heard calling in Sutton Park on May 20th. Two flew west- south-west over Wyken Slough on July 19th and there were two at Bartley on August 13th.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 13th (5) - September 28th (6) Warks Singles at Draycote on July 2nd and 13th, with one on August 20th, two on 75

22nd and one on September 10th. A single was at Brandon from August 24th- 27th, with two on 30th and another on September 2nd. Wnrcs The only spring record was one in summer plumage at Bredon's Hardwick on April 30th. Return passage produced single juveniles at Kinsham on August 23rd, Upton Warren from 26th-September 1st and Bittell on 11th. Staffs No spring records, but one midsummer one of a bird at Westport on June 25th, with possibly the same bird at Tittesworth later the same day. Return passage produced singles at Blithfield on August 10th,14th and 21st, and on September 11th and October 11th. At Belvide there were singles on August 20th, 23rd and October 11th.

Redshank Tringa totanus Frequent passage migrant. Uncommon summer resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Dosthill/Kingsbury 4 5 12 15 6 17 3 3 2 - 2 7 Draycote - C 1 - 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 Bredon's Hardwick 1 21 30 29 10 12 1 Larford - - 3 3 - 2 Ryall GP - - 2 4 4 4 Strensham Lagoons - - 6 10 4 1 Upton Warren - 1 9 9 11 10 1 1 1 - - - Alrewas 1 4 7 8 - 2 - - - 1 - - Barton - 1 4 8 11 11 3 2 - - - 4 BeMde - 1 7 8 9 12 3 1 - - - - Blithlield - 1 - 1 2 6 5 5 1 1 Croxall 4 4 8 13 4 12 2 Dosthill 1 5 7 2 4 Doxey - 2 6 6 6 Other sites (15) 2 - 8 11 15 10 5 1 1 3 1 -

Warks At least two pairs bred at Dosthill, while at Ladywalk two pairs raised broods of three and four after several years absence as a breeding bird. One or two pairs may also have nested at Alvecote, Brandon and in the Charlecote- Wasperton area. Away from the Tame valley the largest spring count was ten at Brandon in April. Worcs Present in the breeding season at several sites along the Avon Valley, at Aston Mill and at Ryall GP. The only proof of breeding came from Larford, where a chick was seen on June 11th. Although four pairs were present at Upton Warren no young were seen there this year. Singles were also seen on spring passage at Grimley, Kinsham, Lower Moor and Westwood. Bittell meanwhile produced three early autumn singles. Staffs Breeding reported from Alrewas, Dosthill north GP (two pairs) and Drayton Bassett, while three pairs attempted to nest at Doxey Marshes. WMid All records were of singles, with birds at: Bartley on April 16th, July 16th and August 6th; Sheepwash UP on April 17th-19th and September 2nd; and in Sandwell Valley on April 1st-2nd, 6th, 15th-18th, May 24th and August 10th. 76

Greenshank Tringa nebularia Frequent passage migrant. Rare in winter. Monthly maxima at main sites:

A M J J A S 0 Brandon _ _ _ 1 2 3 1 Dosthill - 3 - 2 6 1 Draycote - - - 3 4 2 - Bittell 1 - - 1 - - - Bredon's Hardwick 1 - 1 - 14 3 - Grimley - - - 1 - 1 -

Uplon Warren - 1 - 2 1 7 - Barton - - 1 - 5 2 - Belvide - 1 1 3 1 2 - Blithlield - - - 3 7 7 1 Dosthill north GP - 3 - - 4 3 - Other sites (nine) 4 1 - 1 13 12 - Warks A very poor spring followed by a disappointing autumn. The only other spring record involved a bird flying over Radway on May 23rd. The remaining autumn records came from: BAD Kineton, one on August 18th and October 9th; Bramcote, one on July 18th; Coton, two on August 27th; Ladywalk, singles on three dates in August; Packington, one on August 28th; and Shustoke, two on September 9th and one on 18th-19th. Worcs The flock of 14 flying around Bredon's Hardwick on August 21 st SJH was a county record. Further singles were at Westwood on August 14th, Kinsham GP on 18th, Bishampton Vale Pool from September 3rd-15th and Wilden also on 15th. Staffs A poor year. W Mid Spring singles at Bartley on April 16th, 18th and 19th, and In Sandwell Valley on May 17th. Autumn passage produced singles at: Sheepwash UP on August 11th, September 3rd and from 8th-October 18th (with two on the latter date); Wyken Slough on August 11th and September 1st; Dunstall Park Lake on August 19th and 25th; and Clayhanger on September 14th.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa fiavipes Very rare vagrant (0/10). This extremely confiding bird was only the second Regional record, the first was at Blithfield in September 1979. Staffs A juvenile moulting into first-winter plumage was at Knighton Res from November 11th-16th DAB, MBa etal. Slimmer and more elegant than Redshank with proportionately longer neck, bill and legs. Similar lo small Greenshank In plumage with mainly grey streaked upperparts but with warm brown spotted mantle and scapulars. Fairly prominant though short supercillum stopping in front of eye. Square white rump, not extending up back. Slender all dark straight bill, with yellow legs, looking orange in some lights.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Frequent passage migrant and uncommon winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F MAM J J A S 0 N D Brandon 1 _ 2 6- 3 16 19 12 3 1 1 Kingsbury area 2 2 15- 5 5 11 3 1 5 5 77

J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0 8iltell 1 1 - - - - Bredon's Hardwick - - 1 1 - - 1 - - - - - Grimley I - 3 1 - 2 6 7 9 - - Kinsham GP ------2 2 - - - Ryall GP - - 2 1 - - - 1 - - - - Streusham Lagoons - - - - 1 2 3 - - - Upton Warren 3 2 1 3 7 16 16 7 5 4 1 Wilden 2 3 - - - - Barton 1 - 2 - 1 1 6 5 3 1 - - Belvide 2 3 2 1 - - Croxall 1 - 1 1 - 5 2 1 1 - Ellord 1 - - - 2 5 1 4 1 - Pendeford Mill 1 3 2 1 - - - - 2 - - - Other sites (17) 1 2 4 3 - 4 35 14 - 1 2 -

Warks Typical numbers in the two main areas, with up to four at a scatter of other sites in all months except May. Worcs Singles at small pools by Lower Smite Farm on January 6th and at a farm near Oddingley on 15th illustrate the ability of this species to utilise almost any watery habitat. Other singles were at Lenchford on January 2nd and 28th, Westwood on April 11th, flushed from Dowles Brook on June 27th, Abberton on July 28th, Aston Mill on 31st, near Castlemorton Common on September 10th (the first record for the Malvern area), and at Tlbberton on October 22nd. Staffs The highest counts were of nine at Handsacre Flashes on July 11th, with ten at Hill Ridware and 12 at Copmere on 16th. An early juvenile was reported at Handsacre on July 1st. WMid In spring, singles were seen at: Stubber's Green on March 13th, 22nd, 29th and April 3rd, and at Sheepwash UP on April 24th, Fishley on 26th and at a small pool on Netherton Hill on May 2nd. More numerous as usual on return passage, with two at Meriden GP on August 5th, and singles at: Sandwell Valley on July 13th, 25th and November 10th; Stubber's Green on July 23rd, September 11th, October 11th and November 7th-8th; Sheepwash UP on July 28th, September 1st, November 3rd and 11th-12th; Wyken Slough on July 21st; and finally, Dunstall Park Lake on November 20th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has overwintered. Average passage: May 2nd (6) - September 25th (6) Warks A poor year. After a very early bird at Brandon on April 11th-12th, there were singles at Dosthill on 28th and Draycote on May 4th. One at Coton on August 5th was the only bird on return passage. Worcs Singles at Bredon's Hardwick on May 13th, Kinsham GP on August 3rd and 14th-18th, and finally at Bittell on August 23rd. Staffs In spring, there were two at Barton GP on May 13th-14th increasing to three on 15th, with one at Alrewas also on 14th, two at Belvide on 17th-18th and one at Rudyard on 19th. June singles were found at Handsacre Flashes on 18th-19th and at Hill Ridware also on 19th, but subsequent autumn passage was very poor with just solitary birds at Blithfield on August 5th-6th and Rudyard on September 17th. 78

Common Sandpiper Actitls hypuieucoa Fairly common passage migrant. Scarce summer resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites:

A M J J A S O Colon 2 - - 2 4 2 _ Oosthill 2 3 - 6 7 1 - Draycote 1 2 - 16 20 8 1 Shusloke 5 - - 10 5 3 - Bishampton Vale Pool 1 1 - 1 2 - - Bittell 6 - 9 4 3 Bredon's Hardwick 4 4 3 4 6 7 1 Kinsham GP 1 - - 1 2 - - Lower Moor 1 - - 1 2 1 - Strensham Lagoons - 1 - 1 2 1 - Upton Warren 7 7 - 5 9 2 - Westwood 1 2 - 12 1 1 1 Alrewas 2 1 - - 1 - - Belvide 2 - - 2 2 - 1 Blithfield 6 2 2 25 12 3 2 Chasewater 2 1 4 5 2 1 - Croxall 1 3 - - 1 3 1 Doxey - 1 1 1 1 - - Kings Bromley - 1 - 4 3 1 Titlesworth 6 10 15 18 3 2 - Westport 4 2 - 3 1 - - Other sites (12) 10 - 1 33 10 4 - Bartley 8 6 3 5 5 1 - Fens Pools 2 1 - 15 - - - Dunstall ParWValiey Park 2 3 - 1 1 1 1 Nelherton Res 3 2 2 1 - - Sandwell Valley 5 3 1 6 2 3 - Sheepwash UP 2 1 1 2 3 1 - Warks Recorded on passage in small numbers at a scatter of other sites. A pair were observed in an agitated state, possibly with young present, on the R.Leam near Leamington Spa on July 17th WTJ. This was the first hint of possible breeding in the county since the atlas surveys of 1966-1972. An overwintering bird from 1994 remained at Jubilee Pools until at least March 30th. Worcs Singles also on passage at Aston Mill, Grimley, Larford, Pirton, Saxons Lode and Trimpley Res. Three on the R.Severn at Lenchford on July 19th hinted at the numbers which are probably missed by birders along the underwatched rivers each year. Staffs Breeding only reported from Tittesworth, where two young were fledged. At least one was present in the Alrewas and Croxall GP area during January-February. W Mid The 15 at Fens Pools on July 15th was a site record count. The only others to be reported were singles at Smethwick Hall Park on April 20th and Brad- nock's Marsh on 24th, two in Sutton Park on May 22nd and further singles at Wyken Slough on July 5th, 16th, 19th and September 8th, Somers Road GP on July 29th and heard calling in flight after dark over Woodshires Green on August 18th.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 26th (6) - September 21st (6) The flush of records in November-December was very unusual. 79

Warks Spring passage ran from April 28th-May 23rd, with a late bird at Draycote on June 11th. Most were at Dosthill, with one on April 28th, two on 29th-30th, five on May 17th and one on 23rd. One at Sliustoke on May 12th was thought to be the first at that locality. A poor return passage was noted only at Draycote, with two on July 18th and August 26th, and a late single on November 22nd. Worcs One at Upton Warren from April 29th-May 9th. A much more unexpected record was of one roosting on the ice at Westwood on December 31 st. Staffs Two at Dosthill north GP on April 30th and May 1st opened spring passage. One at Belvide on May 9th-1 Oth was followed by four at Blithfield on 13th, one again at Belvide on 14th and two there on 16th. Doxey had the last bird on 27th-28th. In July, singles occurred at Blithfield on 26th and 30th, with three at Belvide on 28th. Blithfield had two on August 27th and one on 30th, while four at Belvide on September 15th completed return passage. W Mid At Sheepwash UP three dropped down briefly on December 10th, followed by another five on 18th.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Scarce autumn and early winter visitor, usually storm-driven. Very rare at other times of year. Warks A juvenile stayed at Draycote very briefly on September 24th REH, DJS. Staffs One at Westport on December 4th SG.

Phalarope sp. 1990 Addendum Worcs One seen and described by maintenance engineers working on the R. Severn at Holt on an unrecorded date in October was probably a Grey Phalarope, but the description was not precise enough to rule out Red-necked per PFW.

Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus Rare autumn and winter vagrant (3/10). Worcs An immature briefly visited the Westwood gull roost on January 4th SMW. The third county record, just four years after the last, which was seen by the same observer at the same site.

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Scarce passage migrant. Rare in winter. The poorest showing of this, the commonest skua visiting the Region, since 1986. W Mid Two adults, one of each colour phase, were at Bartley on September 2nd AN.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon but increasing passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks At Draycote, the first-winter from December 1994 continued to be found in the roost on many dates up to at least March 25th, with a different bird on 31st REH et al. Single adults appeared there on January 28th REH, DJS, February 9th RCM, March 5th PDH, 23rd RCM and 25th REH, and again on April 19th RCM. Other reports, including a record seven on February 11th, 80

were unfortunately submitted Withoul dessu iptiona and therefore rannnt be verified. In the Tame valley, there were two first-winters at Coton on January 3rd and one on 4th JAA, a first-summer at Dosthill on May 21st GIG, PDH and a bird moulting into adult winter plumage there on August 14th PC. After a first-winter at Draycote on September 9th RCM, the only subsequent record at that site was a second-winter on November 25th REH, DJS. Finally, a second-winter was at Dosthill on November 29th PC and a first-winter at Coton on December 9th SMH. Worcs In the early part of the year the picture was dominated by the Westwood gull roost. First-winters were found there on January 2nd GDL, SMW, 3rd GHP, SMW, from February 6th-10th SMWetal. and on March 1st GHP, while the second-winter from 1994 was present intermittently from January 2nd-31 st JH et al, and it or another from March 2nd-8th JH, TMH, GHP. The rest of the county finally got to feature in July, when a first-summer was found roosting at Upton Warren on most nights from 10th-29th GG et al., with a juvenile roosting from 13th-15th, 27th, August 13th and finally on 27th, by which time it was moulting into first-winter plumage AW, SMW et al. The only adults of the year were at Throckmorton Tip on July 13th-14th GHP et al. and at Arrow Valley Lake on August 9th ARW. The autumn was comparatively quiet, with only a first-winter at Kinsham on October 16th GHP, and a second-winter at Westwood from November 10th-14th SMW etal. Staffs Again the majority of records emanated from just three sites. At Chasewater, there were single adults on January 14th and February 5th GE; second- winters on January 15th GE, JVH, MY, February 5th DJA, JVH, and on March 12th and 16th GE; and first-winters on January 15th-16th GE, JVH and February 4th GE. An adult at Blithfield on February 3rd WJL and 5th MY et al., was followed by a first-winter on 12th GIG, PDH, WJL, while a second- winter was seen at Barton GP also on February 5th MY Belvide produced a first-winter on February 12th SN, and single adults on 25th REH, DJS and April 24th SN. The only records from the latter part of the year involved single first-winters at Belvide on September 7th-8th SN and Westport on October 13th AK, DK. W Mid A second-winter was at Wyken Slough on January 11th, followed by an adult in full summer plumage (presumably the one roosting at Draycote) on March 22nd JJB. An adult in winter plumage was found in the Bartley gull roost on February 2nd ICW, MY. A first-winter was present for much of the afternoon at Sheepwash UP on March 4th AGW, DW, with a second-year at Fens Pools on 8th PWL. Finally, a first-winter was feeding with Black-headed Gulls in Valley Park on December 9th VPBG.

Little Gull Larus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks Quite a good year with a marked passage on April 28th. The first spring migrants were single first-years at Draycote on March 12th, 31st and April 17th. A second-summer there on April 22nd was joined by an adult on 23rd, with another adult at Earlswood Lakes on 26th. A large influx on 28th brought 20 adults to Draycote, 19 adults and a first-summer to Coton and five adults 81

and a first-summer to Dosthill. Next day there were 15 adults and a first- summer at Draycote. Return passage was typically less condensed, heginning with threo adults at Dmycote on July 16th, two at Shustoke on 26th and a single bird in the unusual surroundings of Nelson's Quarry, Stockton on August 3rd. At Shustoke there were then two juveniles on August 22nd-23rd, three on 24th and one from 25th-31st, with another on September 11th. Draycote produced two juveniles on September 9th, with one on 15th and 17th. Worcs This year saw a rather unusual pattern of occurence. A first-winter found on fields near Alvechurch on January 18th, reappeared at Bittell on 19th and then what must surely have been the same bird alternated between Westwood and Upton Warren, being seen on nine dates from January 28th- February 26th. Return passage began with an early juvenile at Upton Warren on July 26th, but the only other record was an adult there on October 12th. Staffs Records of single first-winters at Chasewater on January 8th,16th and 18th and at Belvide on 12th could have all related to just one individual. An unaged bird was also seen at Chasewater on February 12th. Spring passage began with at least one adult at Blithfield on April 11th, followed by two first-years on 12th with one staying from 13th-21st. Two adults there on 26th were succeeded by eight (five adults and three fiist-years) on 28th. Elsewhere, a first-year flew through Barton GP on April 15th, and three adults were at Belvide from 25th-28th with a first-year joining them on the last date. After single first-summers at Belvide on June 21st and July 5th, a juvenile on August 6th was the only later report from there. Blithfield held an adult and first-year on August 1 st, with single first-years also on 9th, September 8th-9th and from 24th-October 5th. One was reported at Chasewater on August 29th, with two first-years at Westport on September 28th and one at Tittesworth on October 1st. Last of the year was an impressive group of 15 adults at Westport on November 30th. W Mid Three visited Bartley on May 7th. Single adults were at Fens Pools on September 10th and briefly, at Netherton Res on December 1st.

Sabine's Gull Larus sabini Rare autumn vagrant (3/10). The tenth Regional record and on a typical date. Staffs A juvenile was present at Blithfield from 1130-1310hrs on September 30th ESC, MJi, GJM.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Frequent breeding bird in Staffs and north Warks. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Binell 700 230 - _ - - 17 340 550 624 169 69 Bredon's Hardwick - - 200 25 10 2 - 300 - 55 80 - Lartord 350 ------500 100 Throckmorton 900 2600 - - - - 300 75 10 300 200 700 Upton Warren 1000 750 - 3 3 270 1750 1250 800 600 600 250 Westwood 7500 4000 1100 6 3 - 62 560 500 1100 5000 8000 82

JFMAMJjAOOMn

------2100 - 2200 Blithfield _____ 42 _ 3100 - Chasewater 6000 5500 5500 23 6 6 1200 3000 4000 5000 7500 12000 Kettlebrook 215 32 15 - - 6 35 44 - 26 72 80 Tittesworth 2500 500 150 8 8 5 4 30 50 58 200 120

Warks About 50 pairs bred at Dosthill, with another 15 pairs at nearby Kingsbury WP. Few roost counts were available, with 12000 at Draycote on January 22nd, 800 at Dosthill on June 27th and 11000 at Coton on November 19th the most significant. Up to 1000 regularly frequented Dosthill Tip during the winter months, while 1500 were on floodwater at Watergall on February 1st, with other maxima of 700 at Brandon and 450 on fields at Radway.

Black-headed Gulls (Phil Jones)

Worcs Good numbers were seen utilising a variety of habitats in winter. On farmland the highest counts were 700 at Grimley and 500 at Holt on January 2nd, 1000 at Upton-on-Severn on 7th, 8000 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th, 300 near Tibberton on November 24th and 250 at Lower Moor on December 24th. Small landfill sites produced 400 at Hartlebury Tip on January 11th and 900 at Wildmoor Tip on December 29th. Staffs A count of 44 birds and at least eight nests came from the Aqualate gullery in May (cf. 23 nests in May 1994), but no reports were received from the regular Tame valley breeding sites. Away from the main sites, other winter counts were more modest and included up to 400 on floods at Rickerscote in January-February, 200 at Betley Mere on November 25th and 350 at Hockley (Tamworth) on 26th. WMid At Wyken Slough very large numbers were reported using the site as a staging post for the Draycote roost during the early months, with a peak of 5000 on January 25th; while late summer flocks using the pool there peaked at 850 on August 14th. An impressive 4000 were at Bartley on March 5th, with 83

2000 counted there on September 12th. Other large counts included 700 at Netherton Res on January 3rd, 400 in Sandwell Valley on 7th, 570 at Dunstall Park on August 8th and 700 ui i 12th, 2HU at Stubber's Green on 18th and 450 at Netherton in December.

Common Gull Larus canus Common winter visitor and passage migrant, but mainly in eastern and southern Warks. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Bredon's Hardwick - 11 100 5 _ - _ - - 1 35 3 Throckmorton 4 8 1 - - - 1 - 1 4 12 Upton Warren 2 8 2 - - 1 3 2 2 4 1 1 Westwood 12 6 3 - - - 1 1 1 6 8 8 Chasewater 21 4 7 1 3 - - - - 4 2 35 Tittesworth 210 85 15 1 - 1 - 3 - - 3 10 Westport 3 2 12 8 19

Warks No counts came from the Draycote roost where many thousands roost, although 500 passed through there on passage on March 22nd. Elsewhere, the largest numbers were as usual in the south-east of the county, with feeding flocks reaching maxima of 300 at Whatcote on January 19th, 600 at Priors Hardwick on February 13th, 350 at Napton on March 31st, and 300 at Fenny Compton during December. In the north of the county, the best count was 50 in the Coton roost on December 16th. Worcs Generally scarce in winter. The species tends to avoid rubbish tips and prefers farmland. The only double figure counts away from roosts were 11 at Oddingley on January 22nd and an impressive 300 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th. The situation changed in March as passage birds started moving across the south of the county. Maxima were 50 near Guarlford on March 8th, 30 over Castlemorton Common on 11th, 350 south-east over Bredon Hill and 150 at Bredon village on 21st, and 48 at Bredon's Norton on 30th. Small numbers also reported at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Kinsham, Larford, Lower Moor and Ryall. Staffs The only other notable count was 70 at Blithfield on March 26th. Another under-recorded species with reports of single figures from only three further sites. W Mid Most as usual in the eastern half of the county. At Wyken Slough, birds were present regularly during the early months up to April 1st, with occasional birds up to 29th. A flock of up to 60 regularly frequented the pool there, with larger counts of 200 flying through on January 25th and 120 on March 10th on their way to Draycote. An impressive 58 were at Meriden on March 12th, with 'smaller numbers' noted in the Berkswell area. Elsewhere, up to six were seen during the winter months at: Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Edgbaston Res, Netherton Res, Parkes Hall Pool, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Stubber's Green and Witton Lakes. In the Coventry area, summer records came from Woodshires Green on June 8th, Wyken Slough on June 22nd, July 23rd and 31st (three), and Whitley on July 18th. 84

Lesser Black-backed (iull Larus fuscua gracllcii Very common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon breeding bird in Worcs and West Mids since 1986. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Throckmorton 3300 800 650 - - 500 600 650 550 1000 1500 2500 Upton Warren - - - 7 - 5 250 250 19 30 45 - Westwood 4850 2000 900 11 2 2 12 170 530 1000 1800 3000 Belvlde 1000 ------500 - - Blilhfield - - - - 72 54 - - - Chasewater 1300 1450 1400 285 120 45 •150 1200 2300 2500 3000 1000 Doxey 1000 Uttle Wyriey - 300 - - - - - 163 - - - - Rickerscote 150 200 ------Tittesworth 1500 500 60 40 8 38 2 46 4 6 150 40

Warks Very few counts received. 1200 roosted at Draycote on January 22nd, while at Coton there were 1100 on September 18th and 2250 on 21st. A notable mid-day southerly movement of adults was noted over Fenny Compton during October, with a peak of 500 south-east on 10th. 500 were again counted there on December 22nd during the morning gull flightlines moving from the Draycote roost out to the landfill tips near Banbury (Oxon). 150 fed at Dosthill Tip on December 2nd. Worcs About 20 breeding pairs were located in Worcester GHG, more than double 1994's figure. Away from the tabulated sites there were many records of good-sized flocks. The largest were 610 at Oddingley on January 22nd, 1000 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th and 800 there on December 24th, 850 in fields near Coneybury Wood on February 13th, 250 near Tlbberton on November 24th, 280 near Pinvin on December 23rd and 400 at Lower Moor on 24th. Staffs Again no regular counts were available from some major sites. Another good summer count was of 114 adults on sludge pools at Silverdale Colliery, Newcastle on June 20th. W Mid At least one pair bred in the Hockley area of Birmingham, fledging two young. More probable breeding pairs were present in Birmingham city centre during the breeding season, with up to ten pairs displaying in the New Street/ Corporation Street area during April-May. The only really notable counts came from the Bartley roost, where there were approximately 3000 on September 12th and 1150 on October 29th. Winter flight lines over Wyken Slough included 150 on January 25th and 300 on November 15th. Elsewhere, the only other three figure flocks involved 180 flying south over Sandwell Valley at dusk on May 7th, up to 350 on fields at Park Lime Pits from September 12th-November 30th and over 100 in Valley Park on October 24th.

'Intermediate' Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. intermedius Uncommon (?) passage migrant and winter visitor. Worcs Three or four adults at Throckmorton Tip on September 2nd. W Mid Two adults at Wyken Slough on March 27th. 85

'Scandinavian' Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. fuscus Scarce (?) passage migrant and winter visitor. W Mid An adult identified at Wyken Slough on March 24th JJB.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus (argentatus) cachinnans Uncommon though increasing late summer, autumn and winter visitor. Warks Probably under-recorded, with fewer records submitted this year. Three adults were seen at Coton on January 2nd NPB, with further adults at Shustoke on 3rd BLK and Dosthill on 28th NPB. The first summer record involved an adult at Dosthill on June 28th, with further singles there on five dates from July 27th-October 11th. Additionally, a third-summer was there on July 12th and four adults with a first-summer on 19th PC. The only records from Draycote this year involved adults on October 30th AC, November 11th (five) and 25th REH, DJS. Worcs Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0 Throckmorton 4 3 1 - - _ 3 e 2 2 1 2 Wectwood b 3 1 1 3 3 5

Most records continue to involve adults, with just a few third or fourth-winters and one or two first-winters. The table showing maxima at the two main sites tends to disguise the remarkable showing made by this gull. At least 27 different individuals were recorded during the year, even if you allow for considerable duplication between Throckmorton and Westwood. Elsewhere there were few reports, just singles at Upton Warren on August 4th and 8th, and at Bredon's Hardwick on 16th GHP, SMW et al. Staffs Reports from just three sites, all of adults unless otherwise stated. Singles at Chasewater on January 1st GE and Blithfield on 7th, February 12th and March 26th WJL, and a fourth-winter at Westport from February 2nd-11th WJL were the only late winter records. A first-winter at Chasewater on September 8th GE was the first back in autumn, followed by a second-winter at Westport on October 24th WJL. Three were seen at Blithfield on November 12th GIG, PDH, with one on 18th, two on 23rd and December 7th GJE and one on 24th PDH. Chasewater produced singles on November 25th DCo and December 29th GE, with three DCo and a fourth-winter PDH on 30th, and one on 31 st GE. W Mid All records refer to adults unless otherwise stated. Singles were found in the Bartley gull roost on February 12th, March 28th MY and June 23rd MDJ, with two there on July 16th and an adult and third-summer on 23rd ARD. A good series of records came from the Rattlechain Tip/Tlvidale area, with a single (possibly the same) individual noted on August 7th-8th, 18th and 28th, October 18th and 22nd, November 1st-2nd and on December 27th AGW, DW. Finally, a third-winter was at Wyken Slough on October 23rd JJB and a single at Stubber's Green on December 26th DJC. 86

Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer, though nested Worcs in 1969 and 1993. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Throckmorton 700 75 30 6 - - 15 2 2 10 - 90 Westwood 600 100 50 6 - - - - 4 10 35 90 Chasewater 2000 350 250 18 3 2 20 - 820 2000 Tittesworth 500 60 3 1 - 2 - - - - 1 Warks 1800 at Draycote on January 22nd and 350 at Coton on December 31 st were the only significant roost counts. At Fenny Compton on December 22nd, 350 were counted on the morning gull flightlines moving from the Draycote roost south to the landfill sites near Banbury (Oxon). 160 were following the plough at Radway on September 23rd. Worcs Traditionally a winter bird, though small but increasing numbers are turning up in late spring and summer. Symptomatic of this were 12 at Bredon's Hard- wick on May 6th, five at Upton Warren on 26th and three at Kinsham on June 18th. By the end of December numbers were building up again, but the only significant counts away from the main two sites were 20 at Lower Moor on December 24th and 25 at Wildmoor Tip on 30th. Staffs Under-recorded, though numbers continue to be lower than a decade ago. A flock of 375 adults (and presumably an unknown number of immatures) at Bemmersley Tip on January 6th had increased to 900 adults by 20th. Other large counts included 500 at Cannock Tip on February 5th and 450 at Blithfield on December 24th. Summer reports include six at Blithfield on July 29th and two on August 26th. W Mid Good numbers passed through Wyken Slough during January and February with a peak of 300 on January 25th, but later in the year only small numbers were noted, with records from August 21 st onwards. Elsewhere it was either very scarce or under-recorded, with maxima of only six in Sandwell Valley on January 29th and December 26th, six at Bartley on August 13th and 13 in Dunstall Park on December 3rd, with occasional reports from Harborne and Park Lime Pits. Of interest was an adult with yellow colour rings consorting with nesting Lesser Black-backed Gulls in Hockley on May 20th.

Iceland Gull Larus giaucoides glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks The third-winter first seen at Draycote on December 31st 1994 continued to roost there until February 11th, with records on 17 dates during this period RCM etal. It was joined by a second-winter on January 17th, 18th, 23rd and 26th, and by an adult also on January 18th RCM. An adult at Coton on December 31st ARD was the only other record. Worcs A first-winter visited Throckmorton Tip most days from January 2nd-8th GHP et al., roosting at Westwood on 4th-5th SMW. Also at Westwood, a second- winter roosted on January 10th, being seen again early the following morning, with another first-winter roosting there on 12th-13th, being also seen at Throckmorton Tip on the latter date SMW. 87

Staffs In the Chasewater roost, an adult was found on January 9th GE, SAR, 20th GEand February 5th DJA, JVH, a second-winter on 14th, 16th and 22nd AC, GE. and a first-winter/summer from March 7th-30th GE. Blithfield produced a third-winter on January 15th ESC and 22nd ESC, WJL, MY, a first-winter on March 10th ESC and two first-summers on 19th GIG, PDH. A first-winter at Westport on February 5th NC, WJL was the only other late winter report. At the end of the year, a third-winter was at Blithfield from December 10th-15th ESC, PDH, GIG et al., and two adults were at Chasewater on 23rd MY, with one there on 30th PDH. WMid A first or second-winter bird flew through Fens Pools on January 1st SE , whilst a second-winter (presumably the same) visited Netherton Res briefly on 2nd before leaving to the west CJT. 1993 Corrigendum Warks The second-winter reported at Draycote on March 13th was in fact at Coton AC, this being the only record from that site during the year.

Kumlien's Gull L. g. kumlieni Only conclusively identified in 1995 from slides and photos taken at the time, this bird has now been accepted by BBRC as the second British record of this race, which breeds on Baffin Island and in north-west Quebec and winters from Labrador south to New England. This race intergrades with L. g. thayeri of the Canadian high arctic, which is frequently treated as a species in its own right, while the nominate race breeds in Greenland. Correct identification of both Kumlien's and Thayer's Gull is fraught with problems due to race inter- gradation and degrees of hybridisation with Herring Gull. 1979/1980 Addendum Staffs A first-winter, previously published as nominate Iceland Gull, was at Westport from December 30th 1979 to January 12th 1980 DWE, WJL etal. About same size and bulk as first-winter Herring Gull but with noticeably deeper chest. Rounder headed than this species with shorter and stouter blunt all-black bill. Dark eye and relatively short rich pink legs, noticeably brighter than other gulls. At rest the primaries extended about 4cm beyond the tail.The plumage was similar lo nominate race, being mainly pale biscuil brown. From above, the outer live or six primaries had noticeably darker outer webs with the tips appearing almost wholly dark. From below the underwing coverts were a uniform pale brown wilh the primaries appearing white, but with dusky lips evident in photos. The grealer coverts also showed darker tips in photos. A solid though indislincl secondary bar was present, while the tail also had an indistinct but solid subterminal band with only the extreme tips being pale.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Warks The only records involved a first-winter at Draycote on January 7th REH, DJS and an adult at Lawford Heath Tip on February 2nd and at Draycote on 5th MFO. Worcs A first-winter was found in the Westwood gull roost on January 27th SMW. It was relocated at Throckmorton Tip next day, and then spent the day-time feeding there until at least February 19th and roosting most nights at Westwood until 23rd SMW et al. Staffs A first-winter feeding at Cannock Tip on January 8th MY, February 3rd ESC, RRH and 5th GIG, PDH, and again on March 4th PDH, ICW, MY, was 88

presumably the bird roosting at Chasewater from Febiuaiy 3rd-27th GE otal. This bird was joined by a second from March 1st-9th, one remaining on 10th GE, with presumably the same two first-winters seen at Great Wyrley on February 26th AC. The only other records came from Blithfield, where a first- winter was seen on February 5th WJL, and a first-winter/summer on March 12th ESC, WJL and 19th GIG, PDH.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce in summer. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

JFMAMJ JASOND Throckmorton 48 15 11-----2110 Upton Warren 1 1 ______1 Westwood 38 15 2- -- --1 - 29 Blittifield 450 380 - - - - - 10 180 Chasewater 380 40 21 - - - - - 2 65 440 Tlttesworth 25 8------1 Warks The only sizeable counts received were of 48 at Dosthill on January 14th, 140 in the Draycote roost on 22nd and 45 at Coton on December 31st. Odd birds were seen in most parts of the county during the winter months. Worcs Remains scarce away from the principle haunts of large gulls. Two over Little Comberton on January 7th were not too unexpected, but mid-summer records of singles at Bredon's Hardwick on June 6th and Ryall GP on August 15th were surprising. On more typical dates were two at Bredon's Hardwick on November 19th and one at Lower Moor on December 24th. Staffs The only other double figure count involved a maximum of 22 at Bemmersley Tip. Otherwise the only other reports involved one-three in January at Aqua- late, Belvide and Westport. Unseasonal records included eight immatures at Chasewater on May 1st, and two at Blithfield on May 21st and August 27th. W Mid Remains a scarce species in the county, with records of one-three from January-early March and late November onwards at: Dunstall ParkA/alley Park, Netherton Hill, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough, with a peak of six at the latter on January 30th. Unseasonal records came from the Dunstall ParkA/alley Park area, with two on August 24th and singles on 27th and September 5th.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks A very poor year, with most records involving March adults. At Draycote, there were three on March 5th, one on 25th and four on 26th. Also on 26th three were seen at Dosthill, while on 30th one was found at Jubilee Pools. The only later record was of two at Draycote on December 30th. Worcs A flurry of activity at the end of January saw a first-winter at Westwood on January 20th and single adults there on 21st and 23rd. There were also three adults at Bredon's Hardwick on January 22nd. The rest of the year managed to produce just one record, an adult at Upton Warren on August 23rd. Staffs A rather poor year, with all records involving adults unless otherwise stated. There were singles at Chasewater on January 1st and at Westport on 89

February 9th and 18th, followed in March by birds at Dosthill north GP on 16th, Belvide (two) and Blithfield on 26th, and at BlithfielH again on 29th. Singloo then appeared at Chasewater on April 1st, Belvide on 15th, Chase- water again on 25th and at Belvide on May 1 st and September 1 st, with first- winters there on November 4th and from December 22nd-24th. WMid Adults appeared at Netherton on January 2nd (later found dead) and 15th, Sandwell Valley on 23rd, Fens Pools on February 9th (three) and in the Bartley gull roost on March 23rd. Later in the year there was an adult at Wyken Slough on August 13th and an immature at Sheepwash UP on December 24th.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Average passage: April 4th (6) - September 28th (6) Warks Singles at Draycote on April 1 st, Earlswood Lakes on 23rd and Shustoke on May 24th. Worcs Single adults at Bittell for thirty minutes on April 23rd and at Upton Warren on July 4th were the only records. Staffs Two adults and a firot-winter visited Bllthtield on September 20th and two were reported at Belvide on October 7th.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant and frequent summer resident, nesting mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys. Average: April 13th (11) - October 8th (11) The first spring birds appeared at Kings Bromley on April 7th, Chasewater on 11th and Kingsbury on 12th, with the main arrival about a week later. The last in autumn were flocks at Bittell and Draycote on October 9th. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

A M J J A S 0 Bittell _ 2 2 6 7 1 37 Bredon's Hardwick 1 - 2 2 - - - Upton Warren 2 4 5 5 8 4 - Westwood 1 1 1 1 - 3 - Sandwell Valley 1 3 4 9 5 - - Warks A pair bred unsuccessfully at Brandon for the first time. In the Tame valley, 25 pairs hatched 68-89 young (fledging numbers unknown) at Kingsbury WP and 15 pairs hatched 22-27 young at Dosthill. Some chick mortality was noted at the latter site, possibly due to power boat disturbance leading to increased predation and chilling. Passage numbers elsewhere were negligible, although several sites had regular visits by feeding birds during the summer months with maxima of nine at Earlswood Lakes in July and 11 at Brandon on August 12th. A late bird at Packington on October 7th-8th, was followed by a flock of 31 at Draycote on 9th of which all but two were juveniles. Worcs Although a pair was present at Upton Warren throughout the summer, there was no breeding attempt this year. The flock of 37 at Bittell on October 9th 90

comprised predominantly Juveniles, witn Jusl ui le adult prcoont. One's or twn's also occurred at Bishampton Vale Pool, Eckington, Grimley, Hewell Park, Larford, Lower Moor, Strensham and Wilden. Staffs A pair bred at Belvide in a bread basket attached to scaffolding, hatching two young of which one fledged. No details came from the Tame/Trent valley breeding sites. A light spring passage was noted at the main waters with no count reaching double figures. Return passage began with eight at Chase- water on June 10th-11th and six on 24th. A healthy 28 were at Tittesworth on June 16th, with ten there on 25th. Back at Chasewater there were four on July 3rd, 17 on 16th and seven on August 25th. Blithfield had double figure counts regularly from July 9th (11) to August 18th (22), with a peak of 24 on August 5th. Otherwise only very small numbers seen at Belvide, Rudyard and West- port, with very few during September up to 17th. W Mid Two at Sheepwash UP from June 18th-30th showed a great deal of interest in the raft present on Pumphouse Pool. Up to three were also seen at: Bartley (max. 12 on July 30th), Bloxwich, near Earlswood, Edgbaston Res (max. four on July 6th), Fens Pools (singles only, apart from 25 on September 9th), Fishley, Hampton-in-Arden, Meriden GP, Netherton Res, Park Lime Pits, Stubber's Green and Wyken Slough (max. five on July 31st). There was an even spread of records from May-September, but with a pronounced peak during July-August.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant, in variable numbers. Average passage: April 9th (6) - October 7th (6) Warks After three at Dosthill on April 10th, no more appeared until 22nd when three were at Draycote. The main movement began on 24th with two at Kingsbury and 17 at Dosthill, with 14 still present there next day. On 26th, there were 21 at Earlswood Lakes and 13 at Shustoke; while one at Coton on 28th and three at Draycote on 29th were the last to go through until May 17th, when four more were at Earlswood with one there next day. The last spring birds were two at Shustoke on June 6th. Unusually there were no autumn records. Worcs Relatively few records, though they were grouped into two distinct incursions. On April 25th there were three at Bittell, one at Upton Warren and one at Westwood. Next day saw one at Bredon's Hardwick and two at Upton Warren. Late spring produced two at Bredon's Hardwick and one at West- wood on May 17th. Staffs An early single at Kettlebrook Lake on April 9th was the precurser of a concentrated passage from 23rd-26th. This involved about 127 birds, with two at Blithfield on 23rd, 24 at Belvide on 24th, a further 22 there and 15 at Barton GP on 25th, with 48 at Blithfield and 16 at Chasewater on 26th. Subsequently the only records were of two at Belvide on May 8th, one there on 20th, and one at Chasewater on 27th. Very few seen on return passage, with singles at Blithfield on July 7th and August 28th, two at Belvide on 30th and two at Blithfield on September 15th. W Mid The only record concerned a single in Sandwell Valley on April 25th. 91

Little Tern Sterna albifrons Scarce or uncommon passage migrant. Average passage: May 4th (6) - September 1st (5) Warks Singles at Kingsbury on April 28th and Draycote on May 4th were the only records. Staffs Singles reported at Branston WP on May 3rd, Belvide on 26th, Westport on June 17th and 25th, and at Blithfield on July 1st. 1994 Addenda W Mid Singles at Fens Pools on May 15th and July 12th.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant, in variable numbers. Average passage: April 22nd (6) - October 23rd (6) Warks No doubt weather-related but the poorest showing since 1984. Most records came from Draycote, where there were two on April 23rd, three on May 5th and 13th, three again on September 11th, and finally a juvenile on October 7th-8th. The only other was an adult at Shustoke on July 18th. Worcs A disappointing year, with the species being particularly scarce in the autumn. Single adults were at Larford on April 29th and Bredon's Hardwick on May 17th-18th, while two graced Westwood also on 17th. A mid-summer record concerned an adult at Upton Warren on June 26th. Single juveniles at Bredon's Hardwick on September 13th-14th and flying south over Upton Warren on October 16th was all the autumn could muster. Staffs A very poor year. Only four spring records, of singles at Chasewater on May 16th and 23rd, Blithfield on 23rd-24th and Belvide on June 20th. There were then singles at Blithfield on July 30th, Belvide on August 1st-2nd and Calf Heath Res also on 2nd. Blithfield had most subsequent records, with up to five from August 16th-23rd, one from 25th-27th, two on September 8th, three on 9th, up to five from October 2nd-7th and a final late bird on 28th. The only other record for this period was a single at Rudyard from August 26th-28th. W Mid One at Meriden GP from at least May 18th-20th was the only spring record. Autumn passage produced two at Fens Pools on September 9th, with 15 present next day.

Little Auk Alle alle Rare storm-driven late autumn and winter vagrant (5/10). This bird coincided with an exceptional wreck down the North Sea coast from the end of October which resulted in birds appearing in several adjacent counties. Warks One on the river at Stratford-upon-Avon on November 2nd GFT was rumoured to have been picked up dead there on 4th.

Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. No relevant information received from the other three counties. W Mid A breeding colony exists around Haden Hill House, while it was reported as common in the Harbome NR area. There was a count of 70 in Wolver- hampton town centre in November. 92

Stock Dove Columba oenas Common resident. Warks Fewer records this year and apart from 160 at Chesterton on November 12th, the best counts were of only 80 at BAD Kineton in March, 45 at Fenny Compton in October and 60 at Burton Dassett in December. Worcs Population stable in the Malvern area, where 31 pairs was the same as last year; and at North Piddle, where one pair represented no change. Two pairs at Alfrick, where breeding had not been confirmed in 1994. The largest flocks reported were of 66 at Upton Warren on April 3rd, 157 at Shorthorn Wood on May 8th, 50 at Aston Mill on October 16th, 40 at Bittell on November 18th and 105 at Bredon Hill on 19th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. one in 1994), with at least one pair at Pendeford Mill NR. Flock size was relatively small, with the largest reported being 35 at Weeford on January 3rd, 20 at Pendeford Mill NR on March 5th, 23 at Chasewater on June 11th, 22 at Blithfield on November 22nd and 30 at Gailey on December 26th. Elsewhere, only small numbers reported from Belvide, Butterton, Doxey, Highgate Common and Little Wyrley. W Mid Breeding records were received from: Dunstall Park/Valley Park (three traditional sites), Harborne NR area, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park. Probable breeding pairs were noted in Coventry at Allesley Park, Foleshill Gasworks (three) and Whitley Pumping Station (five). Several pairs were present in the Haden Hill Park/R.Stour corridor and around Park Lime Pits, while four territories were on the Mons Hill CBC. Flock sizes were better than last year, with 21 at Shut End on February 17th, 30 at Bradnock's Marsh on April 30th, 20 at Elmdon on July 14th and 40 in the Park Lime Pits area from December 18th-25th, being the largest. Parties of around a dozen were noted in five further locations.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks The summer count of 224 at BAD Kineton was the lowest in 11 years of census work here, being about 35% below average. The largest flocks were of around 500, at Priors Marston on January 24th, llmington on 28th and at Wormleighton Res on October 18th and December 6th. A woodland roost on the Burton Dassett/Fenny Compton border peaked at over 1000 on Novem- ber 25th-26th. Roosts at Brandon were reported to be smaller than in previous years, with maxima of only 95 in November and 250 in' December. Worcs The only breeding data came from CBC results at Alfrick, where four pairs were double the number in 1994; and Upton Warren, where six pairs bred. At least 400 roosted at Upton Warren during January-February, while there were 350 at Castlemorton Common and 500 roosting at Abberton on February 19th, and 110 at Pirton on March 5th. Later in the year, 275 flew west over Happy Valley on October 29th and up to 500 were at Castlemorton Common by late December. Staffs A total of 42 pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. 48 in 1994). The largest counts early in the year came in January, with 320 at Hanchurch Woods on 2nd, 153 at Pendeford Mill NR on 12th and 120 at Park Hall CP on 31st, whilst a flock 93

of 1000 at Fisherwick on 21st was probably the same flock as that feeding in stubble downriver at Barton GP on 28th. Later in the year flnrk-size peaked in December, with 260 at Wheaton Aston on 10th, 500 flying south-east over Tittesworth on 12th and up to 1340 in Coombes Valley being the largest. W Mid The only breeding data of value received were of 22 territories on the Mons Hill CBC (21 in 1994,14 in 1993) and ten pairs at Wyken Slough (six in 1994), both showing a slight increase. 'Many thousands' were reported to be using one or other of two roosts in Saltwells Wood on a regular basis during the winter months, though the only accurate count received from here was 1105 on December 9th. Elsewhere flocks were generally on the low side, with over 100 in Dunstall Park on November 14th and 300 at Cuckoo's Nook on December 9th the best counts.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks Maxima of 25 at Fenny Compton and 36 at Whateley in December, with up to 18 regularly at Ladywalk. Worcs The largest flocks reported were 120 at Ryall on September 20th, 32 at Abberton on November 23rd, 47 at Castlemorton Common on 26th, 35 at Smite on 29th and 46 at Tlbberton on December 9th. Two birds reported carrying nesting material at Malvern Link on December 20th shows well that breeding may occur in any month of the year. Also during this month an almost complete albino was present in the Crowle area. Staffs The best flocks involved 60 at Blithbury on January 8th, 86 feeding around a grain silo at Upper Hulme on September 26th which had increased to 112 by October 13th, and 54 at Bent Farm on December 101h. Monthly counts at Highgate Common peaked at 20 on December 14th. W Mid Breeding reported from 14 localities, including three pairs at both the Mons Hill CBC and Wyken Slough. These were reductions from seven and four respectively over 1994 figures. Largest counts included 53 in a Shirley garden on January 30th, 30 at Mushroom Green Marsh on August 3rd, 22 at Sheep- wash UP on 31st and 22 in a south Walsall garden on September 24th.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur A fairly common though declining summer resident and passage migrant, increasingly becoming confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Average: April 25th (60) - September 24th (60) There were again two very early spring records, at Draycote on April 1st (the earliest on record) and Wyken Slough on 12th, before the main arrival from the end of that month. There was a scatter of September reports up to 16th with the last at Princethorpe on 29th. Warks No confirmed breeding, though pairs probably bred at Alvecote, Fenny Comp- ton, Knightcote, Whateley and BAD Kineton, where nine on the census day of May 21st represented average numbers. Additionally, three pairs were present at Polesworth and two pairs in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area during the summer. Elsewhere, six were seen at Brandon on June 4th (an area where they are now rare), with up to three at Chesterton, Draycote and Marlcliff and 94

singles at ten other localities. Noted only twice at Ladywalk. One unfortunate bird suffered a broken neck after flying into a window at Leamington Spa on May 9th. Worcs Noted at 31 localities, with 75% of all records reported being south of a line drawn across Worcester city centre. Not recorded in the extreme north-west of the county during the last five years by one observer. Also noted as being absent since 1989 at North Piddle, farmland which regularly held one or two pairs in the past. It was not all gloom and doom however as four pairs bred in the Malvern area after none last year. The largest counts were of only five, all from the lower Severn and Avon valleys, at: Aston Mill on May 21st, Lower Moor on July 12th and August 8th, and at Ryall from June 8th-August 27th. Staffs A pair bred in the Belvide area where two fledged young were being fed on September 1 st, while two pairs were present at Trysull Quarry and three birds were seen at the nursery near Handsacre Flashes on May 27th. Other sightings, mostly singles, came from: Barton GP, Elford, Highgate Common, Kiddemore Green, Lichfield, Seisdon, Tatenhill and Whitemoor Hay. W Mid A very early bird at Wyken Slough on April 12th, with singles at Meriden GP on 30th and calling in Saltwells Wood on May 14th. Autumn passage at Wyken Slough produced one east on August 27th and six south-east on September 1st.

Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor and escape which has bred. Warks After at least three years in residence, the female at Coombe apparently succumbed to a heavy snowfall on the night of March 2nd/3rd. 1993 Addendum Warks A pair spent a day in a small Fenny Compton orchard sometime during January.

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Common summer resident, which has declined somewhat in recent years. Average: April 10th (59) - September 4th (58) The three March records were extraordinary though not unprecedented; there were earlier ones on 8th in 1990 and 12th and 14th in 1957. The main arrival began in mid-April. The last of the year was at Clayhanger on August 16th. Warks Reported from 21 localities, mainly singles though with up to five between Wood End and Piccadilly, four at Kingsbury WP and three from Bidford- Marlcliff during May. Larger counts involved 24 at BAD Kineton on May 21st (slightly above average) and a peak of eight at Brandon on 31st. Several flying juveniles were noted during late summer including one that was killed after hitting a window at Beausale. Worcs Just 12 singing males in the Malvern area indicates a long term decline in that district. Up to three males were calling at Upton Warren during May, with others reported from a further 30 localities throughout the county. In July, single juveniles were seen at Strensham on 23rd and Castlemorton Common on 28th. 95

Staffs Widely reported across the county but again with concentrations of sightings from Cannock Chase, the northern moorlands and the south-west corner. At Doxoy it was seen less often this year, with no apparent parasitism of the Reed Warbler colony. It was also reported as being scarce at Chasewator, with only one heard. Two exceptionally early birds were seen in March, at Porthill Bank on 16th DKand Chillington Lower Avenue on 27th KA. A bird of the scarce (or overlooked?) rufous-phase was seen at Tillington Cemetery on June 17th. W Mid A very early bird flew over the M6 near junction five (Castle Bromwich) on March 15th NPB. Reported regularly in the Bartley area during spring and summer. Other records appeared to be mainly of migrants, with singles between April 25th-May 26th at: Bradnock's Marsh, Cradley Heath, Harborne, Meriden GP, Mushroom Green, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Valley Park and Wyken Slough. Later records came from Sandwell Valley on June 30th, Sheepwash UP on July 1st, Fens Pools on July 28th-30th and Clayhanger (a Juvenile) on August 16th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Uncommon and much decreased resident. Warks In the south of the county two pairs bred in nest boxes 2km apart, raising broods of three and four respectively; over the last nine years 47 pulli and one fledged young have been ringed at these sites. At another site in the south- east, a pair from reintroduced stock successfully reared young in the roof of a bam. Also noted at four other sites in the south during the breeding season, while winter records came from: Alvecote, Avon Dassett, BAD Kineton, Butlers Marston, Draycote, Gaydon, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Priors Marston, Salford Priors and Tysoe. An extraordinary record involved one that flew through an open bedroom window at Oldberrow at 03.00 hrs on October 18th and sat on the dressing table! Worcs Bred at one south-eastern locality for the first time since 1959. Three other breeding season reports came from the south-east, with one from the extreme north-west, one from the Severn Valley and one from a site north of Redditch. Noted outside the breeding season at: Abberton, Bradley Green, Bredon, Cofton Hackett, Fladbury, Grimley, Kyre, Larford, Ribbesford, Spetchley, Stockton-on-Teme, Stourport, Upton Warren, Warndon and near Wickhamford. Staffs Reports came from a total of 18 separate locations, mainly of single birds. Birds were noted all year at Aqualate, Chillington and Little Wyrley, with other breeding season reports from Gnosall, Needwood, Seighford, Swynnerton, Tlttesworth, Tixall (bred), Uttoxeter and Weston Bank. Outside the breeding season, reports came from Belvide, Betley Mere (in January and August, the first records here), Cannock, Rocester and Winkhill. W Mid Singles were seen at Cradley Heath on February 3rd, at Buckpool on July 16th and September 10th, and at Fens Pools on December 4th. In addition, a dead bird was seen on the north bound carriageway of the M42 between junctions four and five (near Solihull) on an unspecified date. 96

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common resident in rural areas. Warks Breeding season reports from 33 widely scattered localities, with ten pairs around Fenny Compton, five at Coleshill and three at Shustoke. Noted at a further six sites outside the breeding season. Worcs Bred at Alfrick, Broome, Burcott, Clent (two pairs), Hanbury Park, Hinton-on- the-Green, Purshall Green and Timberhonger (at least four pairs). Noted at a further an sites around the county. In the Clent area, one was watched feeding on invertebrates disturbed by Badgers which had recently emerged from their sett. Staffs Pairs bred or were suspected of doing so at Belvide (four), Blithfield (two), Coombes Valley, Pendeford Mill NR, Rudyard and Tittesworth. Elsewhere, reports mainly of single birds came from an additional 21 sites. W Mid Bred near Barr Beacon and in Sandwell Valley, with attempted breeding at Park Lime Pits. Singles were noted at Middle Bickenhill in January, Meriden GP in April, Norton Lane (near Earlswood) and Dyers Lane, llshaw Heath in May, along the Grand Union Canal south of Knowle in August and in Long- moor Valley, Sutton Park in September. A bird at Wyken Slough on Septem- ber 2nd was the first known record at that locality. Tawny Owl Strix aluco Common resident. Warks Little information except from the south-east, but noted at 17 localities, nine of them during the breeding season. Worcs A breeding attempt at Abberton was aborted after tree-surgeons did their worst. Five were heard calling around Callow Hill on June 4th, with records at a further 21 localities around the county. Staffs Breeding pairs reported only from Abbots Bromley, Coombes Valley (seven, as last year) and Pendeford Mill NR (two). During April, a healthy total of 28 were counted in Coombes Valley. Elsewhere, reports of single birds came from 18 sites distributed throughout the county. W Mid Confirmed breeding at Brandwood cemetery (probably two pairs), Dunstall Park/Valley Park and Harborne NR (several pairs in the vicinity, with one using an owl box). Other breeding season records came from Bilston Cemetery, Meriden Shafts, Mons Hill and Saltwells Wood. One heard at Woodshires Green on April 14th and May 9th was the first to be recorded there by the observer in seven years of observation. Outside the breeding season, birds were also reported from: Four Oaks, Dickens Heath, Norton Lane (near Earlswood), along the Grand Union Canal south of Knowle, Marston Green, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley and Whitmore Reans.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce breeder. Warks One or two were noted at four widely spaced sites during May-August, and breeding was possible, though not proven. Outside the breeding season there were singles at Brandon on January 21st and February 2nd, BAD Kineton on March 6th, Napton Res on 22nd, Kingsbury on October 9th and Wormleighton Res on November 3rd and 27th. 97

Worcs One at Hewell Grange, two at Island Pool and three at Holt were all discovered on March 12th. The latter three stayed until April 8th, with one remaining until May 6th. On April 29th it was seen to be roosting with a dead vole dangling from its talons for later consumption. One was calling in typical breeding habitat at a western locality on May 13th. The only autumn records were of one at Upton Warren on November 12th-13th and one heard calling at Little Comberton at 03.00hrs on 14th. Staffs Three pairs bred successfully in the county, with a pair on Cannnrk Chaeo raioing three young, as did the pair at Coombes Valley. It was not known how many the third pair at a confidential site reared. The regular roost at Park Hall CP only managed a maximum of four on January 22nd. Long-eared Owl (Terry Parker) W Mid One in Sandwell Valley on October 10th and 25th. 1994 Addendum Staffs A pair bred at Coombes Valley.

Short-eared Owl Asio fiammea Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeder, mainly on the northern moorlands. Warks One at Lea Marston from January 11th-15th, with two on February 4th. Singles also at Ladywalk on January 22nd, Wormleighton on February 26th and March 19th, Draycote on 30th-31st, and in the Poolfields-Gaydon area on April 14th. Scarce in autumn, with singles at Brandon on October 29th, Draycote on November 12th and Dosthill on December 24th the only sightings. Worcs After one just north of Bredon village from March 27th-April 4th, there were two unusual summer records of singles at Little Comberton on June 13th and perched on a cricket pitch post at Severn Stoke on July 22nd. The only autumn records were singles at Walton Hill on September 14th, near Throckmorton on November 6th and on Castlemorton Common on December 22nd. 98

Staffs Again there was no confirmed breeding. Singles weie piesent in the Barton GP area from January 10th-April 11th and again from December 9th-27th, with possibly the same bird at Croxall on December 24th. Further singles were seen at Herbage Barn on May 22nd, Chasewater on October 23rd and November 22nd, and at Swallow Moss in January, from March-May and in October. W Mid Singles in Sandwell Valley on April 4th and December 7th-8th, and at .Sheepwash UP on October 11th.

Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon and very local summer resident. Rare passage migrant. Average: May 16th (53) -August 21st (38) The first was on May 14th in Worcs. Worcs One discovered roosting on a branch in Trench Wood on May 14th per AC. The second successive year that this former breeding species has been recorded in the county. Staffs The only records received were from Cannock Chase, where up to three churring birds were noted in the Katyn Memorial area and a pair at Seven Springs. Presumably there must have been birds in other parts of the Chase, but no reports were received.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 22nd (61) - September 26th (61) First seen at Kidderminster on April 17th, with other 'firsts' in widely scattered areas during 20th-24th. The last in autumn appeared on September 16th, apart from a very late bird in Worcester on November 11th. Warks Fewer large gatherings noted this year, with the best being 500 at Draycote on the early date of April 22nd and 1000 there on June 4th. Flocks of 500 were also in the Dosthill-Middleton area on May 13th and feeding on flying ants high over Ladywalk on July 28th. Worcs Very few reports. One observer noted the presence of a large breeding colony at Malvern Link. The only places where significant gatherings were reported was Upton Warren, where there was a peak of 400 on May 10th and June 5th; and Westwood, where the largest count was 500 on May 11th. The most interesting record was of an exceptionally late bird over Worcester on November 11th RHu. Staffs A good breeding season was reported from Rickerscote in Stafford, and also in the Little Aston-Stonnal-Shenstone district, while breeding was also recorded at Doxey Road and Eccleshall Road in Stafford. Site maxima included over 250 at Tittesworth on May 8th, 400 at Chasewater on 13th, 2000 at Belvide on June 8th and 3000 at Blithfield on 24th. The partial albino was present at Belvide for the fifth year in succession. W Mid Small breeding colonies were reported from: Aldridge (three separate ones), Edgbaston, near Harborne NR, the Coles Lane area of Hill Top in West Bromwich (where birds have bred for many years) and along the periphery of Valley Park. All of these were in older, mainly pre-war housing. The largest 99

concentrations involved 400 in Sandwell Valley on May 16th, 180 at Wyken Slough on June 9th, 250 at Bartley on 25th and 300 moving south in loose groups of up to 50 over Monkspath, Shirley on July 28th.

Kingfisher Alcedoatthis Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding was proved at Brandon, Dosthill, near Draycote, Exhall, Ladywalk and Stockton; with breeding season records from: Alvecote, Bidford-Marlcliff, Butlers Marston, Compton Vemey, Coombe, Kineton, Kingsbury, Leamington Spa and Southam. Reported from a further 13 sites at other times of year including four together at Offchurch on December 1st. Worcs Bred along Dowles Brook, and seen in the breeding season at Orleton, Ribbesford, Stanford Bridge, Trimpley and Upton Warren. Noted at another 18 localities outside the breeding season. Staffs Widespread reports from over 25 locations including several in the breeding season, but with no confirmed breeding records received. W Mid A good year. Breeding was confirmed along the R. Cole at Billesley, in the Valley Park area and at Walsall Arboretum; and was also suspected along the R. Stuur near Halesowen, along the R. Rea at Lifford and along the Grand Union Canal at Olton. Again breeding was thought possible along the R. Tame on the periphery of Sandwell Valley where birds were seen occasionally during April-June. On August 10th an adult was feeding two young at Wyken Slough, where up to two were seen regularly from January-March and from July-December. These birds had presumably nested somewhere along the Sowe valley. Outside the breeding season records came from a further 21 sites, at some of which birds were seen on a regular basis.

Hoopoe Upupa epops Scarce passage migrant. Rare in winter. Warks One at Cottage Farm, Wood End (Fillongley) from about December 3rd-27th PAH, SMH, BLK, SDN et al., maintains an annual run of records in the county since 1992. While there have been several recent November records, this is the first county and Regional December record since one overwintered at Honington in 1983/4.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Also a former summer resident, last breeding in 1941. Worcs A bird was found dead in a garden at Great Witley on September 21st DRH-S. W Mid One showed well at Clayhanger on September 13th PAJN, BS, SCW et al.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Common resident. Warks In the south-east of the county 123 sightings at 17 localities were reported to BOS, with nine located at BAD Kineton on the May 21st census. Other- wise bred successfully at Brandon, Coombe, Ladywalk (two-three pairs) and 100

Packington, and reported from 20 other sites across the county during the year. Seven together at Brandon on December 10th. Worcs Particularly common in the Malvern area where at least 27 pairs were located, and as many as seven were seen at Castlemorton Common on October 29th. Breeding was confirmed only at Westwood, but noted at a further 39 localities throughout the county. Staffs Reports come from throughout the county. Breeding pairs confirmed only at Cnnmhes Valley (three, as last year) and Tittesworth (two) and possibly at Elford, whilst juveniles were noted at Highgate Common and Hinksford. W Mid Breeding season records came from: Allesley, Berkswell, Birmingham Univer- sity area, Dorridge Park, Harborne, Marston Green, Meriden area, Mons Hill, Moseley (Billesley Lane GC), Park Lime Pits, Perry Hall Park, Pype Hayes GC, Sandwell Valley (three pairs) and Whitley. Also reported from eight further sites outside the breeding season, including Wyken Slough, where a juvenile present during August-September was only the second site record.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopus major Common resident. Warks In the south-east, a total of 184 records from 17 localities were reported to BOS. Bred successfully at Brandon, Coombe, Nuneaton, Packington and Wormleighton Res and noted at a further 20 sites across the county during the year, including three pairs in Kingsbury Wood and six drumming between Wood End and Piccadilly in spring. There were seven at Brandon on November 21st. Worcs Breeding confirmed at British Camp Woods, Lower Moor, Upton Warren and Westwood. Noted at a further 39 localities throughout the county. Staffs Reports came from throughout the county, with breeding pairs at Abbots Bromley, Brocton Coppice, Coombes Valley (four), Highgate Common, Pen- deford Mill NR, Ridgehill Wood and Tittesworth. W Mid Breeding season records came from: Brandwood Cemetery, Dickens Heath, Dorridge Park, Edgbaston, Haden Hill Park, Handsworth Wood, Harborne (including several pairs along the Walkway), Marston Green, Meriden GP, Mons Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pype Hayes Park, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sarehole Park, Sutton Park, Tile Hill Wood, Valley Park and Wyken Slough. Noted outside the breeding season in a further eight areas including several gardens. An unusual record involved a bird taking 'a chunk' out of a Greenfinch on an Aldridge nut feeder!

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopus minor Fairly common resident. Warks Reported from 19 localities. Present as usual at Packington, though infre- quency of contact suggested a low density. Breeding season records also came from Brailes, Brandon, Compton Wynyates, Coombe, Ladbroke, Shus- toke and Ufton Wood. Worcs Breeding season reports from: Alfrick, Bittell, Broadway, Crowle, Dowles Brook, Grimley, Hallow, Hanley Castle, Hitterhill, Holt, Hoobrook, Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Monk Wood, Oddingley, Picken End, Stoke Bliss, 101

Trapnell Brook, Trimpley, Westwood and Wilden. Noted at a further 16 sites outside the breeding season. Staffs Records of single birds came from scattered localities throughout the county and in every month, though the only report of nesting activity was from Cannock Chase. Here a pair were noted excavating a nest hole at Seven Springs on April 5th, which next day ended up too large and the birds were not seen again. Two pairs were resident at Coombes Valley as last year. W Mid Present in the Edgbaston/Winterbourne area during the breeding season. One along the canal in Dickens Heath on February 20th, with two males in Valley Park on the same date and one again on October 29th. One was drumming on Castle Hill, Dudley on March 10th, while singles were noted in Sandwell Valley on April 15th, May 3rd and July 31 st. Garden records came from Dorridge on March 13th, Olton on March 22nd, April 5th and ^ff/WffW^ Lesser Spotted 12th , and in Oldswinford on August f 0rSjjT Woodpecker 22nd. One at Park Lime Pits on "" (John Teasdale) December 19th and 26th was the observer's first record at this site for 18 years.

Woodlark Lullula arborea Resident until early 1960's, but now rare visitor (4/10). Staffs A singing male had returned to last year's site by March 12th and was joined by a second bird on 14th. Both remained here until at least July and although breeding was suggested there was no direct evidence that this had occurred.

Skylark Alauda arvensis An abundant though much declined resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The summer count of 69 at BAD Kineton was about average BOS. The only other territory counts were of nine in the Bidford-Marlcliff area and seven at The Somers; both one less than in 1994. A very poor year was reported from the Dosthill area where only one or two pairs were thought to be present. Numbers were apparently low early in the year, with maxima of only 50 at Brandon and 57 at Radway. During the autumn a continuous stream of migrants, probably involving several thousands, were noted moving south- west over Fenny Compton during October 8th-10th, reaching a peak of 400 per hour on 9th. Further movements occurred here on dates between 13th- 28th, occasionally reaching 150 per hour, mainly south-west and seemingly following the lines of the hills near the Northants border. Probably part of the same passage were counts at Draycote of over 70 south-west in an hour on October 8th and 100 south per hour on 15th. The largest autumn feeding 102

flocks were of 150 by Kingsbury Wood on October 15th, 150 in stubble at Fenny Compton on November 13th, 70 at Bidford-on-Avon on 18th and 250 at Wishaw on 19th. Worcs CBC data from an arable farm at North Piddle reveals a decline from 11 pairs in 1979 to just two in 1994, followed by an increase to four in 1995 JMcC. At Alfrick, where the CBC takes place on pastoral farmland, no parallel decline has been seen GL. The largest winter flocks were 100 at Grimley on January 1st, 65 at Upton Warren on 12th and 130 at Shrawley on March 4th. Maxima in autumn were 90 at Bredon Hill on October 22nd, 120 at Haws Hill on November 26th, 65 at Kyre on December 21 st and 95 at Lower Moor on 30th. Staffs The only breeding territory counts were 12 at Bates Wood NR, 11 at Tittesworth and three in fields around Belvide (cf. six in 1994). Probable breeding was also reported from several parts of the North Staffs Moors, though numbers were thought to be down. Outside the breeding season flocks were again very small. Early in the year, maxima was of only 50 at Barton GP on January 1st and at Weeford on 5th, 70 at Bickford on 8th and 50 at Whittington Common on 12th. Autumn flocks included 50 at Ashwood on October 16th, 35 at Barton GP on 29th, 100 at Belvide on 31st, 100 at Whitemoor Hay on November 5th, 100 moving west over Belvide on 23rd and 70 there on December 7th. Visible southerly passage was noted in very small numbers over Betley Mere, with a peak of 15 on October 8th. W Mid Breeding season territories reported from: Bartley (two), Dunstall Park (probably four), Hillwood Common area (three), Marston Green (Birmingham Airport area), Meriden area, Park Lime Pits area, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (three), Stubber's Green and Sutton Park. A singing male was at Wyken Slough on April 23rd, with a 'skulking' bird there on May 1st, a site where the species last bred in 1992. Only very small numbers were noted at this locality on spring and autumn passage, and elsewhere the situation was no better. The largest counts were of only 20 at Bilston on March 31st (several in song), 13 in Sandwell Valley on November 10th and ten over Dunstall Park/Valley Park on 26th.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common but local and much declined summer resident. Widespread on passage. Average: March 21st (60) - October 9th (60) A very early bird at Belvide on March 1 st preceded several others across the Region on 11th-12th, with the main arrival beginning on 22nd. Another early departure saw the last at Draycote on October 4th. Judging from available data we now seem to have very few active colonies in the Region, so it is important that observers document all breeding pairs that they may find. Warks The only breeding colony to be reported was Ladywalk. Here 'many' pairs nested in the river bank, but a summer flood just as the young were about to leave the nests left many distressed adults hovering above submerged nest holes. There was a good spring passage through the Tame valley, with peaks of up to 120 at Shustoke on March 27th-30th and 200 at Coton on April 5th. Away from here however spring counts were low with maxima of only 50-70 103

at Brandon, Draycote, Jubilee Pools and The Somers. Aflock of 150 regularly fed over Ladywalk during'mid-July, while other summer flocks included 140 at Brandon on June 24th and 50 alightiny in spring rape (probably to feed) at Packington on July 28th. The most in autumn were 200 at Draycote on September 8th and 150 at Shustoke on 16th. Worcs Bred at Grimley, but no other breeding information received. The largest spring flocks were 200 at Westwood on April 22nd, 80 at Bredon's Hardwick on May 17th and 70 at Grimley on 20th. Autumn saw numbers peak at 50 at Kinsham on August 20th, 350 at Wilden on 27th and 70 at Bredon's Hardwick on September 6th. Staffs Counts of occupied nest holes included over 60 at Alrewas GP, 30 at Croxden GP (cf. 55 in 1994), and 61 on the R.Dove at Needwood Forest. At the latter site, the birds departed early perhaps due to disturbance from river dredging. Counts of passage birds included maxima of 300 at Blithfield on March 26th, 70 at Belvide on 29th, 50 at Westport on April 18th and 140 at Chasewater on 22nd. W Mid A very successful breeding season reported from the Meriden GP complex but no total counts of occupied holes are available, although over 200 birds were seen here during late July. A total of 25 pairs nested at the nearby Somers Road GP, with 80 counted there on May 21st. Away from this area there were spring peaks of ten at Wyken Slough on April 5th, 20 at Bartley on 9th, 15 at Sheepwash UP on 11th and 70 through Sandwell Valley in two hours on 30th, with 50 here on May 29th. Very few autumn records were received, although an excellent passage was reported from Wyken Slough with birds noted on 21 dates from July 10th-September 28th, peaking at 50 on September 4th. An albino was seen at Meriden GP during the summer.

Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common though declined summer resident and passage migrant. Average: March 31st (61) - November 2nd (61) Early birds appeared at Belvide on March 17th, Wilden on 25th and Draycote on 26th, with the main arrival from 30th. In autumn several were noted up to November 3rd, with late birds at Poolfields (Warks) on 12th and Cinderbank (West Mids) on 14th. Warks Little information received but numbers said to be still declining, with no more than 26 reported from Brandon which was once a favoured site, while 15 on the summer count at BAD Kineton was 40% below average. Flocks of 100 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area on May 13th and 70 at Alvecote on 17th were the highest spring totals. Autumn passage was noted at llmington Downs, where several hundred moved south on September 10th and south-east on 12th. Also during September there were over 100 roosting at Ladywalk, 150 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area on 9th and a peak of 400 at Shustoke on 16th. Worcs Breeding numbers at Timberhonger now considered stable after a 30% drop in 1993. Two pairs were at North Piddle after a complete absence in 1994, whilst at Alfrick two pairs compared with three in 1994. The only three-figure concentration in spring was 100 at Upton Warren on May 8th. Several moderate flocks reported in autumn, but a build up evident in mid-September 104

when 120 at Bishampton Vale Pool trom /th-1 Oil • and COO rooeting at I Iptnn Warren also on 10th. Staffs The only notable breeding record concerned 26 pairs located in the Tittes- worth area. Spring maxima included 700 at Blithfield on April 22nd, 600 at Tittesworth on May 8th and 200 at Belvide on 16th. During the autumn, over 300 were noted at Aqualate on September 11th, while 881 moved through Belvide in three hours on 13th in parties of 30-40. A good-sized roost of 4000 wa«5 present at Pool Dam Marsh, Newcastle on August 28th, though the roost at Betley Mere was down on last year with a peak of 700 on Septpmher 9th. W Mid Breeding was reported from only four localities: Aldridge, Cotwall End, llley and Sandwell Valley, whilst it was attempted in Dunstall Park/Valley Park. All breeding records would be most welcome in future. Spring passage peaks included ten at Bartley on April 16th, 50 in Sandwell Valley on May 12th and 22 at Wyken Slough on 17th. In autumn, passage peaked in September with 140 at Wyken Slough on 5th and 270 on 12th, and 330 moving south over Netherton on 14th. However counts at other well-watched sites such as Fens Pools, Sheepwash UP and Valley Park involved peaks of only 25-30 birds. Is this due to under-recording or are things really that bad?

House Martin Delichon urbica Very common summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 7th (61) - November 1st (61) March birds appeared for the fourth year in succession, with singles at Blithfield on 29th and Jubilee Pools on 31st. The main spring arrival however was not until mid-April. Last seen at Draycote on October 28th. Warks Few records, but numbers generally poor and said at Shustoke to have been only 50% of what would have been expected in similar weather 20 years ago BLK. Eight pairs nested at Packington Park. The only spring concentrations to reach 50 were at Alvecote and Dosthill/Kingsbury during May. Summer flocks at Brandon peaked at 150 in late July and early August, at which time there were also records of 300 at Middleton, 150 at Seeswood Pool and Whittleford and 100 at Packington. The main exodus occurred in September with maxima of 350 at Shustoke on 2nd, 180 at Brandon on 7th, 800 at Draycote on 8th and 100 at Weston-under-Wetherley on 29th. Worcs In spring, both Bredon's Hardwick and Westwood recorded 400 on May 11th, whilst 350 on 17th was the maximum at Upton Warren. Many more concentrations reported from mid-August, with maxima of 100 at Bittell on August 15th, 200 at British Camp on 19th, 400 at Upton Warren on 27th, 100 at Westwood on September 5th, 300 around North Hill-Worcs Beacon on 10th, 120 at Bishampton Vale Pool also on 10th, 1000 over Pinnacle Hill on 24th and 400-800 moving south over Worcs Beacon on October 1st. Staffs Counts of nests in breeding colonies included 22 at Hanchurch Water Tower (cf. 18 in 1994), 21 at Tittesworth and six at Wolstanton Working Men's Club (cf. seven in 1994), while a late brood were still in the nest at Anslow on September 28th. In the spring, there was maxima of over 100 at Chasewater on May 8th, an impressive 1000 at Blithfield and 140 at Westport on 11th, and 500 at Belvide on 16th. The larger autumn flocks included 600 at Blithfield 105

and 250 along the R.Dove during cool damp weather on September 2nd, 170 at Chasewater and 180 around Waterhouses STW in the Hamps Valley on 3rd, 800 at Tlttesworth on 11th and 250 moving south over Belvide on 13th. An apparent albino (with pure white plumage) was seen amongst the large concentration at Tlttesworth on September 11th. W Mid As with the previous species very little breeding information received. Breeding still occurs in Aldridge, adjacent to Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Harborne and on the periphery of Sandwell Valley. Reported to have declined in the Sheepwash UP area, where it used to be a regular breeder but now does so only in very small numbers. Highest spring totals included 200 in Sandwell Valley on several dates in May, 40 at Netherton Res on 11th, 40 at Sheepwash UP on 17th and 70 at Wyken Slough on June 12th. Up to 50 were over Dunstall Park during late summer. Autumn records included 40 at Sheepwash UP on August 24th, up to 150 at Wyken Slough from August 27th-September 8th with a peak of 170 on September 3rd, over 100 passing over Harborne in two hours on 9th and 73 moving south-east over Netherton Hill on 14th.

Tree Pipit Anihus triviaiis Fairly common, though declining summer resident and passage migrant. Becoming increasingly restricted to the north and west of the Region. Average: April 7th (58) - September 20th (56) The first appeared in spring at Needwood on April 8th and Sheriff's Lench on 9th with the main arrival as usual from mid-month. j^lj^v The last was seen at Wyken Slough on September 22nd. ^^gjfe&psSL. A noticeably poor year with a seemingly total absence in Warks for the first time. . Warks An apparent complete collapse in the breeding population, with negative returns from five of the few regular sites still left in the county. The only reported sightings were of passage migrants: one in song at Dosthill on April 23rd and two there on August 28th, with two moving south over llmington Downs on September 10th. Worcs A big decline in the breeding population along the Malverns, where 23 singing males compared to Tree pipH 39 in 1994. None were at Castlemorton Common (John Teasdale) for the first time in four years, while it was also considered scarcer than usual in the Wyre Forest. Singing males noted at: Calcot Hill (two), Habberley Valley, Lickey Hills, Pound Green Common (three), Stepping Stones Hill, and Walton Hill (five). Noted on spring passage at Sheriff's Lench, and in autumn at Bittell, Bredon Hill (where six on September 4th was a good total) and Church Lench. Staffs Reports of singing males came from Cannock Chase at Abraham's Valley/Seven Springs (eight), Brocton Coppice, Brocton NR and Sherbrook Valley; and at Coombes Valley (six, cf. seven in 1994, ten in 1993); with 106

others at: Basford Green, Draycott Common, Hanchurch Hill, Highgate Common, Little Wyrley, Park Hall CP, Roaches Wood, Swallow Moss, Wall Grange and Wetley Moor. Failed to breed at Tittesworth this year. Spring passage birds by the R.Dove at Needwood on April 8th and at Westport on 20th, with autumn ones at Blithfield on September 10th, Crossplains on 11th and Belvide on 13th. W Mid One or two in song in Sutton Park during the breeding season but no further information on breeding success. Spring passage birds were at Wyken Slough on April 18th and 23rd, in Sandwell Valley on April 22nd and May 1st, and at Sheepwash UP on April 26th, Netherton Hill on May 7th and in Salt- wells Wood on 12th. Autumn records came from Pelsall North Common on August 30th (two), Wyken Slough also on 30th (three), 31st, September 6th and 22nd, Netherton Hill on September 7th, Valley Park on 8th and flying over Darby's Hill on 14th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage and in winter. Warks Breeding pairs noted only at Brailes, Dosthill (two) and Lighthorne Quarry (seven), with breeding season records from BAD Kineton and Chesterton. Spring passage peaked as usual in late March, with maxima of 40 at Dosthill on 15th, 150 at BAD Kineton on 16th, 70 at Draycote and 60 at Lighthorne Quarry on 30th, and 50 at Whatcote in late March and early April. On llmington Downs 30 per hour moved north on April 9th. More widely reported in autumn, with maxima of 80 at llmington Downs on September 17th, 70 at BAD Kineton on 28th, 60 at Brandon on October 3rd, several hundred over llmington Downs on 8th, 50 at Ladywalk on 14th and 90 at Draycote on November 5th. In addition a strong passage south-west was noted over Fenny Compton on dates from October 8th-28th with a peak of 150 per hour on 9th, whilst a grounded flock of 130 appeared on a sports field there on 20th. During the latter part of the year, there were wintering flocks of 50 at Draycote, 40 on the Ladywalk ash mounds and 30 at The Somers. Worcs Reported in the breeding season only at Bredon Hill, along the Malverns (including six pairs from British Camp-The Gullet) and Castlemorton Common (ten pairs). Only one winter flock reported but it was a good one, with 200 at Tlmberhonger on January 22nd. The species was unusually absent from the Malvems during January and February. Spring passage produced peaks of 100 at British Camp on March 11th and 100 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 23rd, while 62 flew north over Clent in two hours on April 1st. Numerous reports of flocks from mid-September, the largest being 100 on North Hill on September 11th, and 50-100 over Perseverence Hill on October 11th. Staffs Six pairs at Bignall Hill near Audley was the only noteworthy nesting record. The largest late winter flocks were of only 20 at Gothersley on January 20th and 20 at Marsh House near Blythe Marsh on 26th. Spring passage produced 80 at Westport on March 28th (where apparently normally scarce) and up to 94 in Coombes Valley during April, with a smaller peak of 22 at Highgate Common on April 4th and 40 at Knotbury on 28th. Autumn maxima included 107

75 at Belvide on September 22nd, 95 at Wetley Moor on 29th, 200 at Blithfield on 30th and 100 flying west over Sheepwalks on October 14th. 70 at Belvide on November 23rd was the only later count of note. WMid Breeding noted in Sutton Park, but no information on numbers. Up to two singing males at Wyken Slough during the breeding season though no evidence of nesting at this former breeding site. A displaying bird was also noted on Netherton Hill but was probably unsuccessful. The only notable late winter counts consisted of 45 in Sandwell Valley on January 29th and 39 in Goscote Valley on February 1st. Spring passage peaked during the last week in March, with 60 at Wyken Slough on 23rd, 60 in Sandwell Valley on 28th (with up to 40 there on several April dates), 40 at Park Lime Pits on 29th and 60 at Dunstall Park on 31st. Autumn passage was most pronounced during late September, including peaks at Wyken Slough of 140 south in ninety minutes on 27th and 220 south in the same time period on 28th; a day when there were also 100 in a barley field in Valley Park and a peak of 73 south in one hour over Netherton Hill. These were followed by 234 south-west over Darby's Hill in under two hours on 30th. Relatively scarce during the rest of the year, with 20 at Fens Pools on October 14th and 30 at Sheepwash UP on November 4th being II bust counts.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks An excellent year, but with most records as usual from Draycote. Here there were singles on January 17th-18th, and again on March 18th and 25th-26th. A good autumn passage built up from one on October 3rd to three on 9th and a peak of five on 14th. Up to three were then present until 17th, with three again on 22nd and 29th, followed by singles on 30th and on November 2nd, 11th and 19th. Elsewhere, there were singles at Coton on March 16th, Hartshill SF on October 5th and unusually at Fenny Compton on 8th JJB, the latter feeding in flooded foundation trenches on a building site. Worcs Three at Upton Warren on October 9th and one at Bittell on November 12th. Staffs A bird at Westport on March 23rd was the only spring record. In autumn, single birds were seen at Belvide on several dates from September 18th- November 8th, and at Westport on September 20th, October 16th and 28th; Chasewater on October 14th, and at Blithfield on 15th and 28th WMid The only spring record concerned one at Sandwell Valley on March 14th. In autumn, singles were in Sandwell Valley on October 6th and November 7th; Fens Pools on October 15th, 18th, November 10th and December 4th; Sheepwash UP on October 16th and 21st-22nd, with three at Bartley on 26th.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoietta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Average: October 16th (6)-April 19th (6) Warks A disappointing year, with a winter plumaged bird at Coton on April 23rd JAA, and autumn singles at Dosthill on October 29th ICW, MY and Napton Res on November 5th JJB, the only records. 108

Worcs Singles at Upton Warren from the start of the year until March 31st SC et al. and on October 25th AFJ. One at Wilden on October 17th SM was a welcome return to this former stronghold. Staffs One at Chasewater on October 25th-26th GE. W Mid One in company with three Rock Pipits at Bartley on October 26th AN.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima Fairly common though declining summer resident. Common passage migrant. Average: April 1st (59) - October 11th (59) Arrived on time again at Draycote on April 1 st, with the main passage from 5th. A few October records included the last at Draycote on 16th. Warks A poor year in the north of the county where single pairs were thought to have bred at Alvecote, Dosthill and The Somers, while a pair held territory at Ladywalk but failed to breed. A better year in the south, with an above average count at BAD Kineton and good numbers nesting in bean fields at Fenny Compton, with further breeding records from Burton Dassett, Hunn- ingham, Poolfields and Wasperton. Passage numbers were again on the low side with spring maxima of 15 at Dosthill and 12 at Coton on April 15th, and 14 at Kingsbury on May 3rd, although a peak of 80 at Draycote on 22nd was slightly better. Autumn passage at the latter site peaked at only 50 on August 26th and 40 on September 8th. Elsewhere, there were counts at Dosthill of 40 on August 26th and around 80 on September 3rd, with 40 at Napton Res on September 10th. Worcs Bred at Aston Mill, Bredon's Hardwick, Grimley, Lower Moor, Pershore, Ryall and Upton Warren. Also noted in the breeding season at: Beckford, Little Witley, Monkwood Green, Prickley Green, Stanford-on-Teme, Strensham, Torton and Wichenford. Spring peaks of 20 at Bredon's Hardwick on April 19th and 22 at Upton Warren on 29th. Return passage saw counts of 26 at Grimley on July 30th, 25 at Upton Warren on August 17th, 20 at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 2nd and 50 at Bredon's Hardwick on 5th. Staffs Breeding reported only from Belvide (four pairs in surrounding fields), Blithfield, Mucklestone and Whitemoor Hay. Spring passage maxima included 27 at Belvide on April 16th, 35 at Blithfield on 19th and 20 at Tittesworth on 24th. Autumn counts were higher than last year, with peaks of 120 at Blithfield on September 2nd, 38 at Belvide on 7th and 40 at Barton GP on 12th. Numbers were reported to be well down at Doxey, which was thought to be due to an increase in disturbance. W Mid One-two pairs again bred in the Wiggins Hill/Wishaw Lane area. Also present on the county boundary in the Hillwood Common area during the breeding season. Spring passage was recorded at: Bartley (max. three on April 18th), Dunstall Park/Valley Park (total of 19 birds, max. four on April 29th), Fens Pools (up to three on eight dates), Netherton Hill/Res (max. two), Sandwell Valley (max. ten on April 19th), Sheepwash UP (six dates, max. four on April 22nd), Somers Road GP (two on April 30th) and Wyken Slough (six dates, max. two). Much scarcer in autumn, with only a scatter of records from five of the above sites including five on August 20th and six on 24th at Dunstall 109

Park/Valley Park. The only other site to report good numbers was Wyken Slough, with records on 24 dates from July 27th-September 24th and a peak of eight on August 23id.

Blue-headed Wagtail M. f. flava Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A single at Brandon per FGS and a male at Coton PDH on April 16th. Worcs Single males were at Upton Warren on April 27th GG.TMH and Lower Moor on May 1st RAP, while a pair was at Bredon's Hardwick on May 21st, 23rd and 26th SJH, SMWet al. Staffs A male at Chasewater on April 22nd-23rd GE. W Mid A male in Sandwell Valley on April 16th-17th SVB, apparently showed some hybrid or variant features.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding was proved at Bramcote, Claverdon, Coombe (first time here since 1991), Draycote, Earlswood, Eathorpe, Exhall, Hunningham, Ladywalk and Rugby; with breeding season records from Bascote, Dordon, Leamington Spa, Marlcliff, Shustoke, Southam and Whatcote. Fewer observers are now bothering to send in records from outside the breeding season, hopefully because they are now much more common! The BOS reports 56 records from 11 localities in the south-east, while eight further sites are mentioned. The largest parties were of five at Fenny Compton on September 30th and four at Hartshill SF on October 5th. Worcs Bred at Bittell, Evesham, Kinsham, Tardebigge and Westwood; with breeding season records at: Bungay Lake Farm, Dowles Brook (three pairs), Grimley, Kyre Pool, Lower Moor, Lower Sapey, New Mill Bridge, Stockton-on-Teme, Stoke Bliss, The Knapp, Timberhonger, Trimpley and Upton Warren. Reported from a further 13 sites outside the breeding season. 15 were discovered roosting in holes in the dam brickwork of Lower Bittell Res on August 19th, whilst up to six were noted around the cascades at County Hall, Worcester during November-December. Staffs Pairs bred at Belvide (first time here), Bishton, Coombes Valley (two), Pendeford Mill NR and Tittesworth (three), with probable records from: Alton, Ashwood, Audley, Baldstones, Great Haywood, Knotbury, Little Wyrley, Newcastle, Prestwood, Seven Springs, Smestow, Stafford, Stanley Pool and Stourton. Reported from another 27 sites during the year, with four at Chase- water and seven at Pendeford Mill NR the largest parties. WMid Confirmed breeding in the Belle Vale/Lutley area, central Birmingham, Dunstall Park/Valley Park and Sheepwash UP, with further breeding season records from: Allesley, Aston, Mons Hill, the R. Sowe in east Coventry, Sutton Park and Walsall Arboretum. Reported as being regular in the Netherton/ Saltwells area throughout the year. Records outside the breeding season came from a further 18 localities, with maxima of four at Harborne NR in September and five at Wyken Slough on August 11th and September 21st. Fewer records received this year. 110

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Numbers at BAD Kineton in May were twice the average. The best counts were 40 at Draycote on March 22nd, 45 at Brandon on August 9th, a notable 200 in the Wishaw area and 32 at Packington on October 7th, 60 roosting in a warehouse at Fenny Compton next day and 30 feeding with Meadow Pipits on the Ladywalk ash mounds in late November. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Abberton, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hard- wick, Grimley and Larford. The largest flocks reported early in the the year were 100 at Holt on January 8th and 150 roosting at Droitwich Hospital on March 7th. After the breeding season, pre-roost gatherings reached 150 at Upton Warren on July 26th, 250 at Strensham on 30th and 100 on many evenings at Bishampton Vale Pool from August-October. Numbers feeding around the margins of Upper Bittell reached a peak of 99 on November 12th. Staffs The large roost present in a group of sallows near Stoke railway station was reported to be considerably reduced, with counts of 144 on September 24th, 45 on October 4th and 50 on 15th, compared with up to 410 during the same period in 1994. Sparrowhawk predation was one possible reason for their disappearance. At Himley, 500 were counted (roosting?) on January 2nd, whilst other good-sized flocks included 40 at Stapenhill on January 12th, 100 at Mucklestone on 22nd, 100 at Gothersley on February 13th, 150 at Ched- dleton STW on March 3rd, 40 in Newcastle on October 7th, 75 at nearby Parkhall Industrial Estate on 27th, and 50 at Chasewater on November 26th. Belvide had counts of 75 on July 17th, 40 on August 28th, 100 on September 9th and 50 on November 5th. W Mid Breeding records received were as usual very sparse, with the only reports from Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP; more would be very welcome. The only notable counts in the first quarter consisted of over 100 moving north- west over Castle Bromwich to roost on March 4th, 50 in Sandwell Valley next day, and a marked spring passage at Wyken Slough from 15th-23rd with a peak of 16 on 21st. In autumn, 50 were at Sheepwash UP on October 4th, 84 moved south over Netherton Hill in forty-five minutes on 9th, and 30 were on a ploughed field at Park Lime Pits on 9th-10th. Over 200 were in Dunstall Park on November 28th, while up to 500 roosted on a traffic island adjacent to the Tesco supermarket in Dudley during November-December; a regular haunt over the last few winters.

White Wagtail M. a. alba Frequent passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A rather thin spring passage with no notable concentrations. At Draycote, there were singles from March 25th-April 1st, two on 7th, one on 22nd, three on 23rd and a final bird on 28th. In the Tame valley, recorded in April from: Coton, singles on 11th, 16th, 18th and 28th, with three on 24th; Dosthill, two on 16th increasing to five on 18th, with three on 23rd; Kingsbury, two on 18th; Middleton, four on 9th followed by one on 15th, two on 16th and one on 23rd; and Shustoke, up to three during the month. Autumn passage produced a party of 12, adults and first-winters, at Draycote on September 10th JJB, the 111

first time more than two together have been seen in the Region at this season. Worcs A typical passage, peaking in mid-late April. The first was at Wilden on the eaily date of March 17th. Grimley had one on April 8th, three on 17th and two on 23rd. Singles were at Upton Warren on April 8th, 15th-19th, 22nd, May 8th-9th, 13th and 17th. At Bredon's Hardwick, one on April 14th, was followed by three on 16th, two on 17th, rising to nine on 19th, but then just six on 20th, and finally two on 27th. Other records involved two at Lower Moor on April 16th, with singles at Strensham on 23rd, Bittell on May 6th and Kinsham also on 6th and 8th-10th. Staffs After an early bird at Doxey on March 20th, April records came from: Blithfield on 4th, Barton Town Pit on 8th, Kettlebrook Lake on 9th (two) and 15th when one also at Butterton; Alrewas GP (three), Belvide and Blithfield (two) on 17th, Belvide (five) on 18th, Westport on 20th (three) and 21st (four), Barton GP and Chasewater on 22nd, Trentham Gardens on 27th and finally, Alrewas GP and Barton Town Pit on 30th. May produced singles at Belvide on 8th, Blithfield on 13th, Alrewas GP on 15th and Trentham Gardens on 19th-20th. W Mid Early birds were reported from Wyken Slough on March 15th and Stubber's Green on 22nd. Singles were then seen in Sandwell Valley on April 12th, 16th-20th and 28th. At Bartley, three on April 19th, were followed by two on 21st, one on May 7th-8th and two on 10th and 14th. There were also two in Dunstall Park on April 19th and at Sheepwash UP on 20th and 22nd-23rd. In autumn two were seen at Clayhanger on September 13th DGr.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus An erratic and usually rare winter visitor but occasionally widespread during invasion years (6/10). There have been no records since 1992. 1989 Addendum Warks One in Rugby from April 18th-29th JFCJ.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus An uncommon and declining resident, now increasingly restricted to north Staffs and north-west Worcs. 112

Worcs Only reported from Dowles Brook, where although tour territories were occupied in March only three pairs certainly bred. Two clutches were lost through predation, but juveniles were seen on two territories in July. Staffs Most reports came from the region of the North Staffs Moors, with the exception of a breeding pair at Knypersley and a bird at Calf Heath on July 14th. In the north of the county, two pairs reared five young at Coombes Valley (cf. only one pair here in 1994), with further breeding pairs in the Danebridge area, Gradbach and Knotbury, and probably four-six territories in Dovedale between Stepping Stones and Milldale. Also noted at Back Forest, Beresford Dale, Biddulph, Black Brook, Tittesworth and Wolfscote Dale.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Warks Numbers at BAD Kineton in May were the highest in nine years, with 98 being nearly twice the average count. Worcs The recent run of mild winters is no doubt responsible for continued increases on almost all census plots. Singing males were recorded as follows: 29 at Alfrick (cf. 21 in 1994), 24 at North Piddle (cf. 21 in 1994), 18 at Shortwood Roughs, (cf. 14 in 1994), and 24 at Upton Warren (cf. 22 in 1994). Surpris- ingly, transect counts at Malvern revealed no significant changes. Thus 31 territories between Happy Valley and the Wyche Cutting, 21 on Castlemorton Common and 37 on Old Hills Common were all consistent with last year's totals. Staffs 168 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley (cf. 102 in 1994) was a substantial increase, while other territory counts include 32 at Belvide, 19 at Pendeford Mill NR and 49 at Tittesworth. A regular count at Highgate Common produced birds in every month of the year with the maximum of 22 there in April. At Betley Mere CES, four adults and three juveniles were trapped during the standardised sessions, which compares badly with the eight adults and eight juvenile trapped in 1994 and was the lowest total since 1991 which followed a harsh winter. WMid Territory counts included about 24 in the Haden Hill Park/R.Stour corridor area, an estimated 15-20 in the Westbourne Road Leisure Gardens area and 50 on the Mons Hill CBC (cf. 47 in 1994). Eight contacts made at Park Lime Pits during a woodland survey was the same as in 1994, though overall it was thought to be more abundant than usual here during the breeding season. A low total of 34 counted in Dunstall Park/Valley Park on November 26th (cf. 50 in December 1994) was doubtless more due to under-recording than to a real decline.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Warks The summer count of 39 at BAD Kineton was twice the average and like the Wren was the highest there in nine years. Worcs Contrasting fortunes at North Piddle and Upton Warren. At the former there was a big decrease from 17 pairs in 1994 to just eight. At the latter, 16 singing males were four more than the previous year and more than double the 1993 113

figure. Other sites reported little change, with 14 pairs at Alfrick, four at Shortwood Roughs and 15 at Old Hills Common. Staffs 12 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley (cf. ten in 1994), nine at Pendeford Mill NR, and 12 al Tittesworth. 22 singing males at Belvide during April was similar to recent years indicating a stable population. W Mid Over ten territories were in the Haden Hill Park/R. Stour corridor area, with about seven in the Westboume Road Leisure Gardens area, seven-ten at Harbome NR and 13 on Mons Hill CBC (as in 1994). Five contacts on a woodland survey at Park Lime Pits was also the same as last year. By contrast, numbers at Wyken Slough were thought to be the highest since at least 1990 and eruptive behaviour was noted for the third year running, with small parties flying up high and dispersing early on fine mornings. The Dunstall ParkA/alley Park census on November 26th produced a total of 25.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks A major increase was apparent at BAD Kineton where the summer count of 99 was nearly three times the average. An autumn influx swelled resident numbers at Ladywalk to at least 40. Worcs Seems to have had a good year with increases on every census plot for which data was supplied. The largest increase was at Shortwood Roughs where 16 singing males in 1km2 compared with eight in 1994. At North Piddle, 26 pairs was an improvement on 19 the year before. Counts of 295 singing males in the Malvern area, ten singing males at Upton Warren and 25 pairs at Alfrick all represented small increases. A 1km walk along Dowles Brook on May 22nd produced 22 singing males. One observer detected a sudden increase in the wintering population around Tibberton on November 26th, when double the normal numbers were thought to be present. Staffs There were again 88 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley, with 32 pairs at Tittesworth, 16 pairs at Pendeford Mill NR and 15 singing males at Belvide (cf. 17 in 1994). 29 were counted at Westport on December 26th in a one hour period, and a monthly count at Highgate Common produced a maximum of 19 on April 4th. W Mid Territory counts included 15 in the Haden Hill Park/R. Stour corridor area, 15- 17 territories in the Westbourne Road Leisure Gardens area and 32 on the Mons Hill CBC (cf. 37 in 1994). A drop in numbers was also indicated at Park Lime Pits where three contacts on a woodland survey was half that of 1994. The breeding population was thought to be stable in Dunstall Park/Valley Park, where 45 were counted during the census day of November 26th. Conversely, numbers at Wyken Slough were thought to be the highest since 1990, and up to 50 were estimated feeding on fire-scorched areas during late summer.

Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident to southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Average: April 19th (61) - July 31st (17) First heard this year at Femhill Heath (Worcs) on April 18th. 114

Warks During May, four singing males were located at BAD Kineton, two in Bowshot Wood and one in nearby Roundhill Wood, while vaguer reports (possibly relating to Bowshot or Roundhill Woods) came from 'Walton Hall' and 'near Wellesbourne'. The latter was thought to be unmated as song continued into early July. Note that the number at BAD Kineton was only half the average of the last nine years and less than half the 1994 (nine) total. Worcs Apart from a bird singing at Fernhill Heath on April 18th, not recorded north of Worcester. Singing males at Gadbury Bank (two), High Green, Marsh Common (four), Old Hills Common (four), Ripple Marsh (four), Strensham and Wood Norton.

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica Very rare passage vagrant (3/10). The seventh Regional record following hard on the heels of the sixth (at Tittesworth in May 1994); however this was the first in autumn. Warks A bird of the red-spotted form was seen briefly on the edge of reeds at Brandon on September 9th JFCJ. This bird, the first county record, coincided with a major arrival of easterly migrants into Britain, following an exceptionally deep depression three days before. Small and long-legged, with upright posture and prominent supercilium. Seen only (ace on, when showed sky blue gorget with a lair amount ol red In centre, a couple ol black leathers below the blue and white benealh lhat. Disappeared into reeds again without turning, so unable to see whether tail was being flicked or had any red at the base. 1985/1988 Errata The 1985 and 1988 records were the fourth and fifth for the Region and not the third and fourth as stated in the Annual Reports.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A male at Draycote on March 9th and a female on May 6th RCM. On return passage, there was one at Billesley from August 27th-September 27th at least DL, a male at llmington Downs on September 10th SMH, a juvenile there on 17th SMH, DJS and a pair on a building site at Napton-on-the-Hill for two weeks from late September MA. Worcs One found at Witley Court on February 8th by members of the local bat group SCo et al. An adult male at Wythall on April 29th-30th JTB et al. Staffs Breeding was indicated at Rugeley Power Station, where a female was seen on June 27th-29th and a juvenile found trapped in a room and subsequently released on August 17th DCo. The only spring record involved a female at Orchard Farm (near Drystone Edge) on April 16th, with a second bird calling nearby CBr, PB. A probably immature male was on the Sheepwalks on Novem- ber 6th PAH, with a female/immature at Chasewater on the same date GE W Mid A pair was reported to have bred at the Albright and Wilson chemical works, Oldbury per AGW. A female at Moor Street Station on May 8th PWL, was followed by a singing male there on 23rd PAC. Further singing males were seen at Aston Science Park on May 14th PAC, and at nearby Shadwell Street on 19th PAC, with at least one, possibly more, in the Hockley/Snow Hill area from May 115

18th-June 20lh PAC, PWL, RRH, but with no evidence of breeding. The only other record concerned an adult male along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal near Thimble Mill Lane bridge, AstOii on December 13th-14th BLK. This bird was apparently roosting in the wall of a nearby compressor factory. 1994 Addendum Warks The immature male at llmington Downs on October 23rd-25th, was last seen on the 27th MSS.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common though localised and declining summer resident, now restricted to Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Average: April 10th (59) - September 24th (58) Records ran from the first on Bredon Hill on April 9th to the last on North Hill (Malvems) on October 10th. Warks A better year. In spring, a male was at Draycote from April 18th-22nd, joined by a female on the latter date; and with further males at Seeswood Pool on April 18th, Ladywalk on 19th and Brandon on 23rd. Singles on return passage at Whatcote on July 9th, Dosthill on 16th (a male), Bedworth Woodlands on September 3rd and llmington Downs on 10th. Worcs Pairs noted in the breeding season at: Bredon Hill, Dowles Brook (ten), Hawkbatch, Lickey Hills, Malvern Hills (30), Sling Pool, Town Coppice (two) and Walton Hill (three). Records at Abberton on June 29th and Upton Warren on July 2nd hinted at possible local breeding in those areas. Birds on spring passage were noted at Bittell, Holy Cross and Upton Warren; with autumn records from Castlemorton Common, Dodford, Kinsham, Westwood and Wilden. Staffs Successful breeding at: Basford Green, Brocton Coppice, Brocton NR, Coombes Valley (37 pairs, cf. 32 in 1994), Gradbach, Knotbury and Trentham Park. Singing males were seen at: Alton, Beresford Dale, Blithfield, Dovedale (two), Gun Hill (three), Hanchurch (two), Knypersley, Ramshorn, Roaches Wood, Seven Springs (four) Swallow Moss, Wall Grange and Wootton Park. Passage birds reported during spring and autumn from ten other sites. W Mid A poor spring passage involved just one in Sandwell Valley on April 29th and on an unspecified date in May, and two males on Netherton Hill on May 1st. More numerous and widespread in autumn, with records from: Brownhills Nature Trail on August 16th; Clayhanger, on July 24th, August 7th and September 14th; Fens Pools, on July 28th, August 6th, September 8th-10th (four) and 17th; Fishley, on August 7th, 16th and 30th; Netherton Hill on July 23rd; Park Lime Pits, on July 5th, August 20th, 28th and September 19th; Pelsall North Common, on August 30th (three) and September 20th (two); Sandwell Valley, from September 2nd-18th (up to four); Sutton Park on August 16th; Woodgate Valley on July 28th; and Wyken Slough, on August 27th, 30th-31st, September 5th and 18th (three).

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon and declining summer resident, now mainly confined to north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Average: April 23rd (59) - October 6th (55) 116

First seen in spring at Upton Warren on April 21st. Autumn records were regular until October 8th, with later singles in Sutton Park on 19th and at Crossplains on November 1 st. Warks No breeding proven at BAD Kineton for the second year running, though a territorial male was seen there on May 15th and June 1st. A male was also present in suitable hay meadow habitat at Fenny Compton on July 5th. Very few seen in spring, with just ten (ct. lb in 1994) between April 23rd-May 14th, at Baginton, Brandon (max. two on April 30th and May 10th), Coton, Middleton and Wasperton. Autumn passage was also again poor, and apart from up to four at Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) from August 22nd-September 15th and three at Whatcote on September 14th, there were just singles reported from: Brandon, Dosthill, Draycote, Flecknoe, Hams Hall, Kineton, Priors Hardwick, Shustoke, Wasperton and Wolverton on dates from August 8th- September 28th. Worcs Noted at Besford, Bredon Hill, Castlemorton Common and Upton Warren in spring. The latter Whinchat (Terry Parker) locality accounted for the majority of the 12 records, with two on April 21st and then a run of singles until May 14th. A much stronger autumn passage, with a total of 47 individuals at 13 localities from August 7th-October 8th. Passage peaked in early September, though the max. was six at Castlemorton Common on 15th. Other sites to get multiple arrivals in September were Bishampton Vale Pool, with up to five from 1st-3rd and Bittell, with three on 11th. Staffs Probable breeding at Baldstones, Barton GP, Knotbury, the Roaches, Shaw- side and Thorncliff. Spring passage birds were noted at Belvide, Blithfield, Chasewater and Doxey; but none at Crossplains this year. Reported from 11 sites on return passage, with a maximum of six at Belvide on August 30th. WMid Spring passage began on May 1st, with two at Netherton Hill and three in Sandwell Valley. Singles were then seen at the latter locality on 2nd, 4th, 5th and 14th; with others at Park Lime Pits on May 2nd, Bartley on 14th and Wyken Slough on 18th. Good numbers were seen in autumn, with records spanning August 9th-October 19th. Most frequently recorded in Sandwell Valley, where regular records throughout September with a peak of ten on 18th; and at Wyken Slough, with birds on 14 dates and a max. of three on September 4th and 6th. Birds were seen on six dates at Sheepwash UP (max. three on September 8th-9th), with less regular sightings of one or two at: Clayhanger, Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pelsall North Common, Sutton Park and the old Walsall airfield, again most during September. 117

Stonechat Saxicola torquata Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor, and scarce breeder. Warks Late winter and spring passage records came from: Dosthill, a pair on January 14th and 21st, three on February 19th and 25th and a single male on 27th; Brandon, a male on February 4th-5th, two males on 26th-27th, four on March 3rd and a male on 5th and 10th; Pillerton Hersey, one on March 15th; and Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth), a female on March 16th-17th. A good autumn passage began with two early juveniles at Lighthome Quarry on August 12th, followed by singles at Brandon on September 24th and Pleasance Farm from 25th-27th. From October 1st-November 13th a trickle of ones and twos (possibly involving up to 23 birds) were noted at: BAD Kineton, Brandon, Burton Dassett Hills, Dosthill (max. four on November 12th), Draycote, Fenny Compton, llmington Downs, Lea Marston, Pleasance Farm, Shustoke and Snitterfield Bushes. The only later records involved one on November 29th and two on December 9th at Dosthill, with a pair at Lea Marston on December 23rd-30th. Worcs Bred at a northern locality, where three recently fledged juveniles were seen on June 2nd, and at three Malvern localities, where two broods of three and one of four were seen. Noted in the late winter period at just Larford, Throckmorton, Upton Warren and Worcs Beacon, with spring migrants on Bredon Hill (male) on April 30th and at Crowle (female) from May 3rd-5th. As usual the main influx came in the autumn, with records at 14 sites from mid- September onwards. Most records were of up to four birds, but eight at Hollybed Common on September 30th and six at Castlemorton Common and ten at Happy Valley, both on October 8th, were the exceptions. Staffs On Cannock Chase, two pairs bred in Sherbrook Valley; while a male was in the nearby Katyn Memorial area on May 13th. On the moors, a male at Three Shire Heads on April 15th could indicate that breeding occurred in that area. Early in the year the few records concerned a pair at Barton GP from January 1st-February 26th at least, one at Brocton NR in January-February, and a male at Pepperslade on January 2nd. Passage males during March were noted at Swallow Moss, Tlttesworth and Westport. More numerous in autumn, with up to five at Belvide during September-October; six at Doxey from October 16th-23rd, with one remaining until December 11th when three seen; three at Little Wyrley on November 8th, a pair at Tittesworth also during November, and singles at Aqualate, Barton GP, Brocton NR, Crossplains, Gun Hill, Swallow Moss and Westport. W Mid One, possibly two pairs bred for the second year running in Sutton Park. The only birds apparently overwintering from 1994 involved up to three in the Sheepwash UP/Tividale area from January-March 3rd and a pair on Pelsall North Common on January 30th and February 27th. A concentrated spring passage brought up to four to Sandwell Valley from February 24th-March 10th; a pair at Netherton Hill from February 26th-March 1st, with the male staying to 6th; a female at Wyken Slough on February 26th-March 6th; and one at Barr Common on February 28th. The first in autumn away from Sutton Park appeared at Sheepwash UP on September 13th, and three or four remained here from October-December. In Sandwell Valley, six were seen on 118

September 23rd and two-four remained to overwinter, while two were also apparently doing so again on Pelsall North Common. Other sites reported only migrants, with ones or twos during September-October at Clayhanger, Fens Pools, Netherton Hill, Rowley Hills, Stubber's Green and Wyken Slough. 'Good numbers' were also reported from Bartley but unfortunately no specific details were supplied.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Uncommon summer resident, now mainly on the northern moorlands. Fairly common on passage. Average: March 19th (58) - October 15th (59) First seen at Sheepwash UP and Sandwell Valley on March 11th, with a more pronounced spring passage than usual peaking around March 25th-27th and April 21st-23rd. The last birds were seen at Oldbury (West Mids) on October 14th and BAD Kineton on 18th. Warks A good spring passage, with records from 25 sites and maxima of four at Draycote in late March, six at Shustoke and 20 at Lighthome Quarry on March 25th, nine at Dosthill on 26th and 14 at Baginton Airport and four at Tysoe on April 23rd. By contrast very few were seen in autumn with just a trickle from July 29th-October 18th at six localities (with most at Draycote), and a maximum of four at llmington Downs on September 10th. Worcs At least one pair bred on the Malverns, where an adult and three juveniles were seen on June 15th. The presence of three other males in early June and five juveniles on July 15th may indicate the presence of at least one other pair in that area. A strong spring passage produced a total of at least 95 individuals at 19 sites between March 19th-May 21st. Apparent influxes (none coinciding with weekends) occurred on March 27th, April 21st and May 4th. The highest counts were nine at Upton Warren on April 21st and ten at Bredon Hill on May 4th. Less conspicuous in autumn, with just 11 birds at eight localities from August 8th-September 21st. Staffs The Knotbury area was a focus of breeding birds on the North Staffs Moors, with 20 including five family parties seen on July 1st, with other probable breeding birds at Alsager Bank, Goldsitch Moss, the Roaches and at Silverdale Colliery. Spring passage birds were noted at 12 sites, with eight at Barton GP on March 25th and 12 at Blithfield on 29th, the best counts. Autumn passage was more limited, with reports from only Belvide, Blithfield and Chasewater. W Mid An excellent spring passage from March 11th-May 18th, with a distinct peak from all localities in the last week of March. The best sequences of records came from: Bartley (six dates, max. three on April 21st), Dunstall ParkA/alley Park (ten dates, max. four on May 1st-3rd and 7th), Netherton Hill (five dates, max. three on May 1st), Park Lime Pits (six dates, max. two), Sandwell Valley (23 dates, with peaks of 26 on March 27th and 14 on April 1st), Sheepwash UP (nine dates, max. three on March 27th), the old Walsall Airfield (eight dates), and Wyken Slough (nine dates, max. two). Others were seen at Bilston, Clayhanger, Fens Pools, Goscote Valley (max. five on March 29th), Meriden and Pedmore. A very late bird was seen in Dunstall Park/Valley Park 119

on June 11th. Much scarcer in the autumn with a sparse passage involving only 15 individuals from August 7th-October 14th at: Barr Beacon. Clay- hanger, Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Fens Pools, Oldbury, Sandwell Valley, Rhfifipwash UP and Wyken Slough.

Greenland Wheatear O. o. leucorrhoa Rare, though probably overlooked, passage migrant (7/10). The first records since 1992. Worcs Singles at Bredon Hill on May 1st SMW and 21st WFP.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus An uncommon and declining summer resident to the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Average: March 30th (39) - October 23rd (33) First seen on Walton Hill (Clent) on March 23rd, with the last of a poor autumn passage on llmington Downs on October 28th. Warks Spring records of males at Draycote on April 22nd and Middleton on 23rd. In autumn, a confiding male at llmington Downs on October 28th. Worcs A series of early records from Walton Hill started with a male on March 23rd, followed by three (two males and a female) from 25th-27th and then a male on 31st. The first Malvern records were three at the top of Happy Valley from March 27th-29th, with a male on North Hill on April 1st and two there on 14th. One was found on Bredon Hill on April 23rd, while the last spring record came from a lowland site: a female on Kempsey Common on 30th. A poor autumn was heralded by a first-winter male at Walton Hill on October 3rd. The Malvern Hills produced one in Happy Valley on October 9th, with three on nearby North Hill on 10th and two again in Happy Valley on 15th. Staffs Incomplete data from the moors this year. After the first (a female) at Hen Cloud on March 30th, one was calling at Roaches Saddle on April 2nd with two pairs at Roach End most of that month. At Drystone Edge three males and a female had a territorial dispute on April 20th and in that area a pair reared two broods, with two young in the second hatching. A male with three juveniles were at nearby Orchard Common on May 25th. The only other records involved four birds at Knotbury on April 15th and a male at Three Shire Heads next day. South of the moors single passage birds noted at Anslow (a male) on April 1st and Wolstanton Marsh, Newcastle on 23 rd. W Mid An early male at Wyken Slough on March 26th, was followed by another at Brades Hall, Oldbury on April 2nd and an elusive female in Sandwell Valley from 17th-22nd. Autumn records comprised a male in Valley Park on September 28th and a female at Wyken Slough on October 23rd, the latter arriving with a large influx of thrushes.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The summer count at BAD Kineton was about a third above average. Otherwise little comparative information received, but numbers elsewhere 120

said to be still high. The only large winter count concerned a flock of 60 at Chesterton on December 9th. Worcs Increased at Alfrick (26 pairs, cf. 22 in 1994), North Piddle (17 pairs, cf. ten in 1994) and Upton Warren (nine pairs, cf. eight in 1994). A slight reduction at Shortwood Roughs, where just six pairs (cf. eight in 1994). Other counts of singing males were 17 along a 1 km stretch of Dowles Brook, 30 along the Malverns from Happy Valley-Wyche Cutting, 43 on the central Malvern Hills and 24 on Old Hills Common (cf. 22 in 1993-4). The only record received from outside the breeding season was of 17 on Castlemorton Common on December 26th. Staffs Counts of breeding territories included 43 at Coombes Valley (as in 1994), 12 at Pendeford Mill NR, 21 at Tlttesworth and at least five at Westport. Regular year-round counts at Highgate Common produced a maximum of 11 on May 11th. A newly fledged juvenile was attacked and killed by a Magpie in Hartshill on April 24th. W Mid Counts of breeding territories included up to 20 in the Haden Hill Park/R.Stour corridor area and 44 on the Mons Hill CBC (cf. 38 in 1994). An increase was also indicated at Park Lime Pits where a woodland survey produced 14 contacts (cf. six in 1994), while conversely numbers were thought to be stable along the whole length of Dunstall Park/Valley Park. In the latter area at least 140 were counted on the November 26th census day, a total no doubt swelled by continental immigrants. Other counts included 35 roosting in a Woodshires Green thicket on January 10th and an influx of 40 at Wyken Slough on September 28th. An albino bird was in Valley Park on February 4th, while two pied cocks were on territory at Wyken Slough for the fifth year in succession.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs 1974-77, 1980 and 1985. Average: September 30th (60) - May 2nd (59) In the spring birds were present at several sites until the end of April with the last at Maxstoke on 30th. A generally late autumn arrival saw the first birds at Sheepwalks (Enville) on October 1 st and BAD Kineton on 2nd but with no real numbers appearing until the 30th. Warks Numbers were smaller than usual in the mild weather of late winter, with the only notable flocks being 160 at Ryton Gardens on February 12th, 300 at Radway on 14th and 500 at Priors Hardwick on 19th. The Ladywalk roost held just 50 in January, but increased to 300 in late February as birds began to return north. Passage brought better numbers in March, including counts of 200 roosting near Southam on 5th, up to 200 moving north over Packington on 15th and 23rd, 380 at Fenny Compton on 26th, 400 at Napton on 31st and a late flock at Maxstoke which peaked at 180 on April 27th. Mild weather in Scandinavia delayed the return passage, with very few before early November when 40 appeared at both Lillington on 2nd and Brandon on 4th, 65 at Fenny Compton on 7th, 48 at Draycote on 11th and 260 south-west at Shustoke next day. Up to 100 were then present at both Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res, but no other flock exceeded 50 until December 21st when The most frequent North American wader to visit the Region, this Pectoral Sandpiper frequented Bishampton Vale Pool in late October (Mike Inskip).

Lesser Yellowlegs. Another nearctic wader, but one that has only occurred twice. Knighton Res., November (Phill Ward). Wrynecks are scarce passage migrants, mainly in autumn following easterly winds. This one turned up at Clayhanger in September (Keith Stone).

After an absence of thirty years, the Woodlark is poised to make a comeback in the Region. This bird was photographed at the Staffs site in May (Phill Ward). 121

a large influx began following heavy snow. This produced flocks of 350 at Chesterton on 23rd, 600 at Marton Moor on 24th and 400 at both Fenny Compton on 25th and Close Wood on 26th. Worcs Unlike Redwing, much commoner in the first three months with many flocks of up to 200. The largest reported were of 280 at Himbleton on January 2nd, 300 at Upton Warren on 15th, 300 at Larford on February 5th and 250 at Tlbberton on March 18th. Several parties were noted during April, with 43 still at Rous Lench on 29th. Scarce in autumn, with the only flock to exceed double figures being 100 flying west over Upton Warren on October 30th. Staffs The larger late winter flocks included 250 at Catholme on January 14th, 300 at Crossplains in late January, 250 at Werrington on March 26th and 200 moving east over Cheddleton on 28th. Late spring passage was noticeable on the North Staffs Moors during April, with up to 543 at Coombes Valley, 550 at Gun Hill on 18th, 500 over Roach End on 22nd, and 500 over Swallow Moss on 23rd with 200 roosting there the previous week. Autumn and early winter maxima comprised 400 at Lud Church in Back Forest on November 5th, 500 roosting at Swallow Moss on 7th, 200 at Highgate Common on December 19th, 300 at Whitemoor Hay on 28th and 500 at Hollybush next day. W Mid Very low numbers reported in both winter periods this year. The only notable late winter flocks were 90 near Dorridge Park on January 29th and 60 at Berkswell on February 18th, while an increase in March saw counts of 40 at llley on 10th, 80 at Park Lime Pits on 15th, 174 at Fishley on 20th, 70 in Sandwell Valley on 23rd and 250 on pasture at Aldridge on 26th. About 40 flew over Dorridge Park on April 10th. Even scarcer in the autumn, with peak counts of only 20 at Sheepwash UP on October 22nd, 50 in Sandwell Valley on 30th and 20 over Marston Green on November 14th.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Very common but much declined resident. Also passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks At BAD Kineton the count of 32 on May 21st was about two-thirds above average, even so It was still outnumbered 4:1 by Blackbirds. Many migrants were grounded in dense fog around Fenny Compton on November 14th. Worcs A10% decrease in the Malvern area, where the annual census produced 72 pairs. Castlemorton Common faired particularly badly, with just six pairs (cf. 35 in 1994). Other census sites reported little change from last year, with three pairs at Upton Warren, two at North Piddle and three at Alfrick, all either the same or slightly down on previous years. Elsewhere, 12 singing males at Trench Wood and eight at Westwood were the most reported. Staffs Reported from 14 localities with counts of breeding territories at: Belvide, eight (cf. six in 1994); Coombes Valley, 16 (as last year); Pendeford Mill NR, four; and Tittesworth, eight. W Mid Eight pairs bred at Wyken Slough, where an increase has been maintained for three consecutive years following a lowpoint of three in 1992. Elsewhere reported in the breeding season from 13 localities, with three-four territories at both Haden Hill Park and Harbome Leisure Gardens, three at Mons Hill 122

CBC and Park Lime Pits, and two at Lifford Res. Continues to thrive as a breeding species in Dunstall Park/Valley Park, where the ccnsus on November 26th produced an impressive 32 birds. Autumn influxes at Wyken Slough included ten on September 22nd and 15 on 28th. 1994 Erratum Staffs There were 16 territories at Coombes Valley, not 26.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Average: September26th (61)-April 16th (60) The last in spring were seen at Wyken Slough on April 25th and Upton Warren on 30th. On return passage the only September records came from Valley Park on 22nd and Upton Warren on 30th, with generally very few in early October. The main arrival occurred from October 21st-23rd. Warks As with Fieldfare scarce in late winter, for instance no more than 40 present at Ladywalk. Larger counts were not reported until March when return passage produced 150 at Brandon on 5th, 100 at Coombe on 11th, 200 at Radway on 14th and up to 100 at Packington in the last two weeks. Autumn passage was late with only a trickle reported until October 21st, when there were 50 at Ladywalk and a huge nocturnal passage that night over Fenny Compton, with a steady passage also over Coleshill. Next day, at least 1000 moved south-west over Fenny Compton and 100 headed west over llmington Downs. Feeding flocks were very slow to build up however, and no sizeable counts were reported before late November. In December, there were 150 at Kingsbury on 2nd, 125 at Brandon on 14th, 150 at Ladywalk by mid-month, 450 at Chesterton on 23rd, 150 at Fenny Compton on 25th and 250 by the R. Blyth on 28th. Up to 300 were also in Whittleford Park during the month. Worcs The largest counts in late winter were 180 near Himbleton on January 2nd, 100 at Larford on 21st and 300 roosting at Upton Warren on February 9th. Autumn saw a big influx on October 22nd, when there were 130 over Abberton, 170 at Bredon Hill, 100 over Church Lench and 700 over Happy Valley. Numbers remained high to the end of the year, with 300 at Upton Warren on November 8th, 600 at Castlemorton Common on 26th, 230 at Oddingley and 250 near Tibberton on December 24th, and 250 at Midsummer Hill on 27th being the largest flocks reported. Staffs Again numbers were rather low early in the year, with the best counts in March when 90 were at Shutt Green on 4th, and 200 were at Pendeford Mill NR and 120 at Belvide on 13th. During the autumn and early winter many more birds appeared, with counts of 400 moving west over Oldacre Valley on October 21st and up to 751 at Coombes Valley also during this month, 200 at Lud Church in Back Forest on November 5th, 100 at Wheaton Aston on December 10th, 135 on fields south of Belvide on 16th, 100 at Croxall on 28th and 200 at Moreton Lane on 29th. W Mid During the early months numbers were very low, with records from only nine localities. The highest counts were only 150 at Rushall Manor on January 7th, 40 in Sandwell Valley and 50 in Valley Park during February, and 59 at Fishley on March 20th. A large nocturnal passage was heard over Woodshires Green 123

on the nights of March 12th-14th and 19th involving migrants moving north. More common in autumn though few reported until the period October 21st- 23rd, when a huge nocturnal movement was noted in the Erdington and Sandwell Valley areas and flocks of 500 on Netherton Hill on 22nd and 270 at Wyken Slough on 23rd. During November-December up to 300 were noted at Netherton Hill, 150 at Park Lime Pits and 100 in Sandwell Valley on a regular basis, with 450 at Wyken Slough on December 24th and at least 250 in Dunstall ParkA/alley Park on 31st.

Mistle Thrush Tardus viscivorus Common resident. Warks The only reported breeding came from Ladywalk (two pairs) and Packington. A major increase in the annual summer count at BAD Kineton may have reflected early nesting. The largest flocks were of 30 at llmington Downs on September 12th and 25 at Packington on 24th. Worcs Breeding confirmed at Bishampton, Bredon Hill, Strensham and Westwood. 19 pairs were located in the Malvern area. The largest post-breeding flock was 38 at Castlemorton Common on August 13th. Staffs Breeding pairs at Coombes Valley (six, cf. seven in 1994), Park Hall CP, Pendeford Mill NR and Tittesworth (four). The largest post-breeding assemblies were of 27 at Litlle Wyrley and 16 at Rudyard on August 26th, and 12 at Pendeford Mill NR on 30th, whilst up to five were reported from a further 13 sites. Several observers commented on the comparitive scarcity of birds this year. W Mid Proven or suspected breeding records came from 15 localities. Although slightly down from last year (cf. 20 with proven records), available figures show no signs of any status change although it was reported to be declining at Sheepwash UP The largest post-breeding flocks reported were of 12 at Clayhanger on July 24th, 15 in Dunstall Park on August 28th, and 31 on July 23rd and 35 on August 30th at Wyken Slough.

Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Warks Probably bred for the third consecutive year at Brandon, where birds present all year with up to four singing males in November several observers. At Ladywalk, a male first seen and heard on November 12th SMH survived the freeze later in the month and was still present at the end of the year. This was the first record for that reserve. Worcs Present all year at Upton Warren (the 1994 breeding site) where a male and two females again produced two broods. The resultant six juveniles were all caught and ringed FH, AGW et al. A male was heard singing at a site in the Avon Valley during mid-August JRH.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 17th (59) - August 26th (49) First heard at Salwarpe on the comparitively early date of April 9th, with the 124

main passage from mid-month. An average year, with the last detected at Brandon on August 12th. Warks Reeling males at: Avon Dassett, BAD Kineton (five, compared with an average of six), Bodymoor Heath, Brailes, Brandon (up to three), Compton Verney, Draycote (probably bred), Hell Hole (Moreton Paddox), Kingsbury (two), Ladywalk, Middleton Hall and Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth). Worcs Appears to be at a very low ebb. Birds reeling throughout the breeding season only at Castlemorton Common (two) and Rous Lench. Some late spring records from Abberton, Eckington, Ipsley Alders and Upton Warren may have involved birds occupying territory. Noted on spring passage between April 9th- 22nd at Arrow Valley Lake, Salwarpe and Trench Wood, while post-breeding dispersal of unpaired males may have been responsible for singles singing in late July at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell and Wilden. Staffs Reeling males at: Abbots Bromley, Aqualate (three), Belvide (two pairs bred, probably rearing two broods), Betley Mere, Branston GP (a yellow bird), Chasewater, Doxey (three, one pair bred), Drayton Bassett, Park Hall CP (three) and Seven Springs. W Mid May have nested at Sandwell Valley where two birds reeled from April 27th until early July, and in Sutton Park where a max. of four were heard on May 25th. Others heard reeling at Clayhanger on April 26th and May 3rd, at Bartley on April 28th and at Allesley on 29th were probably just passing through.

Savi's Warbler Locustelia luscinioides Rare summer visitor (4/10). There have now been eleven Regional records, all since 1968. Warks A male singing at Brandon from June 29th-July 12th PWC et al. Fairly large, bulky and dark brown compared with nearby Reed Warblers, with broad rounded (ail. Upperparts dark rufous brown with no streaking on mantle. Clean white throat, unstreaked breast and pale belly with buffish wash to flanks. Paler buff underlail coverts, which were very long, reaching past Ihe shortest outer tail feathers, and showing very fainl pale tips. Large rounded graduated tail was darker, richer brown than mantle and uppertail coverts. Tail constantly quivered when singing. Wings rufous brown, slightly darker on primaries which appeared curved on folded wing. Rounded head with plain brown, unstreaked crown; bullish supercilium ending behind the eye; and fainl eye-ring. Bill dark, but base of lower mandible yellowish: legs dark pinkish brown, brighter pink in sunlight. Reeling song similar to Grasshopper Warbler, but lower in pitch and slightly faster, producing a 'buzzing' effect quite different lo the Grasshopper's fishing reel' quality. 1992 Addendum Worcs A male singing at Church Lench Pool from May 13th-20th GH, GHP et al. This was the second county record, the first and third coming from Upton Warren in May 1985 and 1994. 1994 Corrigendum Worcs The second county record was actually the previously unpublished record above, and not the one at Upton Warren in May 1985 which was the first.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Common summer resident Average: April 16th (59) - September 28th (53) Arrived early with the first at Brandon on April 6th and several more over the 125

next few days. The last birds were seen at Wilden on September 24th and Wyken Slough on 25th. Warks Breeding season territories reported from: Alvecote (five-six), BAD Kineton (six birds compared with an average of 14, but an increase from three in 1994), Bidford/Marlcliff (11, along R.Avon), Brandon (12), Compton Verney, Dosthill (three), Kingsbury WP (seven), Ladywalk (very scarce with just two pairs, cf. 17 in 1994), Middleton, Napton Res (five-six), Ufton Fields, Warton STW, Watergall and Wormleighton. Worcs CBC data revealed 21 pairs at Upton Warren, so 30 singing there on May 7th must have included several passage birds. A similar story at Strensham Lagoons, where after six were found singing on April 30th, the mid-summer total was four pairs (cf. eight in 1994). Six singing males were at both Abberton and Defford, and five at Lower Moor, with smaller numbers singing at a further 11 sites around the county. Additional passage birds were noted at Bishampton, Dodford and Pirton. Staffs Breeding territories reported from: Aqualate, Barton GP (13), Belvide (26), Croxall, Doxey (48), Eland Brook, Ford Green, Radford Bank, Tatenhill and Tlttesworth (five). At Betley Mere CES, 29 (including nine juveniles) were trapped during the summer, compared to 33 in 1994 and 42 in 1993 showing some apparent real decline. W Mid Breeding pairs confirmed or suspected at: Fens Pools, Pelsall North Common, Sandwell Valley (two-four) and Wyken Slough (two). Additionally, two present in Valley Park during the breeding season but probably did not breed, while one regularly sang at Sheepwash UP but with no evidence of breeding for the second year running. Spring passage birds reported from May 1st-7th at Bartley, Chapel Ash traffic island (central Wolverhampton), Combeswood and Netherton Hill (max. three on 4th), with another at Parkes Hall on 19th. Autumn migrants were at Park Lime Pits on August 6th, Netherton Hill on 20th-22nd (two) with one to 23rd, and Dunstall Park on September 11th. At Wyken Slough there was a fall' of at least eight on August 16th.

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris Scarce and fast declining summer resident, now only in south Worcs. Average: May 31st (45) - July 8th (3) First arrival on May 26th but the species future in the Region still looks very bleak. Worcs Four singing males returned to the Avon Valley, but sadly no females. Hopes were raised when it was discovered that one had paired up, but its mate turned out to be a Reed Warbler! Two young fledged successfully, so we can look forward to some teasing identification problems in the years to come. In addition to the males in the core area, one was found at a site in the Lenches where it sang from May 31st-June 20th. This bird had been ringed in the Avon Valley as a nestling in 1992 JRH etal. Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Average: April 25th (55) - September 25th (49) The first arrived back early, at Upton Warren on April 10th and Belvide on 11th 126

with the main arrival from a week Last seen at Brandon on Octt /ih and Beney Mere on ath. Warks Breeding season territories at: Alvecote (four-five, but some nests destroyed by reedbed fires), BAD Kineton, Bidford/Marl- cliff (nine), Bishop's Bowl Lakes, Brandon (max. in East Marsh of 33 in July-August), Compton Verney, Coombe, Coton (three), Coughton Court (two), Ladywalk (ten), Lea Marston, Lower Radbourn (nine), Middleton Hall, Pack- ington (three), Radford Semele, Stockton (two), Ufton Fields and Worm- leighton Res. One at Abbey Fields, Kenilworth on August Reed Warbler (Dave Nurney) 19th was unusual there. Worcs Most reedbed sites hold a healthy population of this species. The highest concentrations reported were 21 pairs at Upton Warren, 15 pairs along a 2.5 km stretch of the Worcester canal from Tibberton-Dunhampstead, 15 singing males at Hewell Park and five singing at Grimley. Smaller numbers reported from: Abberton, Bittell, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hardwick, Defford, Eckington, Feckenham, Lower Moor, Rous Lench, Strensham, Thorngrove and Westwood. Staffs Breeding territories at: Aqualate (ten), Belvide (nine), Branston WP and GP, Chasewater (four), Doxey (five successful, due to absence of Cuckoo predation), Elford GP and Hill Ridware. Present at five other sites, including Betiey Mere CES where 53 adults and 27 juveniles were trapped. The adult total was the highest trapped there in a season since ringing began, though the juvenile total was down, perhaps due to a poor breeding season. W Mid Breeding or territory holding males noted at: Lady Pool in Rushall (only one - the reedbed was again destroyed by fire early in the season), Sandwell Valley (two-three) and Sheepwash UP (three singing in June, with juveniles being fed in July). Spring passage birds were noted in May at Dunstall ParkA/alley Park on 2nd, Mushroom Green Marsh on 16th, Netherton Hill on 20th and 28th, and at Wyken Slough on 21st and from 30th-June 2nd. Autumn passage produced an excellent series of records from Wyken Slough, with birds on August 16th, 17th (four), 18th, 20th, September 7th (two) and 10th. One also at Meriden GP on September 10th.

Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Very rare vagrant, possibly nesting sporadically in last century. (0/10) One of the best finds of the year, though with the recent rapid increase in the 127

resident population to the south, not too unexpected. In 1994 there was a recorded minimum of 1600-1670 (and an estimated 1800-1890) territories, a post-war record, distributed in nine counties but mainly in Devon, Dorset, Hants and Surrey (Brit. Birds 89:203-212). A run of fairly mild winters combined with positive habitat management seems to be responsible for this welcome resurgence and if this is maintained we can look forward to more records. Worcs A first-winter bird was present on the Lickey Hills from December 9th-31st MHo, SMW et al. This was the first definite county record; and also the first confirmed Regional record since one at Yamingale Common (Warks) in October 1914. This bird frequented an area of heather, bracken and bilberry which must have appeared an acceptable substitute for its heathland home. See Short Notes.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Average: April 21st (59) - September 20th (59) An early arrival at Blithfield on April 14th, preceded the main influx which began around the 23rd. The last autumn bird was seen at Belvide on September 26th. Warks Another fairly poor year, with proven breeding only at Dordon, Eathorpe and Fenny Compton (two pairs). Eight were located on the BAD Kineton summer count, compared to an average of 12. Singing males were reported from a further 22 localities, with a max. of three at Brandon. On spring passage eight were counted at Draycote on May 6th, while a good autumn passage was reported at Shustoke from August 29th-September 17th, with others noted at six further sites. Worcs Evidence from CBC and transect counts suggests that the population remained pretty stable in 1995. Seven singing males in the Malvern area and four at Upton Warren were both identical counts to the previous year. North Piddle registered a big increase however, from two pairs to five. Breeding season reports from 21 other locations throughout the county. Single passage birds seen in gardens at Dodford and Malvern Link. Staffs Bred at Belvide, Blithfield and Wall Grange, with singing birds heard during the breeding season in 16 other locations. Autumn passage was noted at eight sites, with maxima of seven at Blithfield on September 6th and four at Westlands, Newcastle on 9th. W Mid Breeding was proved at: Fens Pools, Mushroom Green Marsh, Netherton Hill, Netherton Res, Sheepwash UP (first time here) and Wyken Slough (two pairs). Probably also bred in Dunstall ParkA/alley Park (up to three in song), Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley. Singing males, some perhaps just on passage, were reported from another six sites including Longmoor Valley in Sutton Park on June 14th where unusual. There were no breeding birds 'at Woodshires Green for the first time in seven years observation. At Wyken Slough, there was a spring peak of six on April 29th, while an excellent autumn passage included maxima of 14 on August 11th and September 3rd. 128

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Vory common cummor rocidont. Average: April 14th (61) - September 26th (61) An early arrival began with singles at Brandon on April 2nd, Wheaton Aston on 8th and Coton on 11th, after which birds appeared daily. The last in autumn was at Belvide on September 26th. Warks This bird continues to do well in most districts, leading to considerable under- recording as reported from only 22 sites. The count at BAD Kineton was 50, slightly below average, while numbers at Ladywalk were said to be relatively low. Elsewhere, the largest territory counts were of 13 between Bidford- Marlcliff, 14 at Brandon, six in 1km2 of arable fields at Exhall, five along 1km of railway embankment at Fenny Compton and four at Hell Hole. Worcs Increased in the Malvern area, where 124 singing males (cf. 106 in 1994); and at North Piddle, where 11 pairs (cf. eight in 1994). Singing males were noted at 33 other localities around the county, with 12 at Ashmoor Common and eight at both Wilden and Timberhonger the most reported. Autumn passage is normally difficult to detect inland, but 20 at Castlemorton Common on September 3rd was an impressive concentration. Staffs Singing males reported in the breeding season from 25 sites, with the larger counts of 17 at Belvide on May 1st, four at Highgate Common on June 1st, six at Pendeford Mill NR on May 10th and 29 at Park Hall CP on May 5th. It was thought that numbers had increased at Little Wyrley, around Shenstone and in the Tamworth area, but a decrease was noted in Sherbrook Valley on Cannock Chase. Summer fires affected breeding success at Doxey. W Mid Breeding territories reported from 25 localities, with the largest counts coming from: Bartley (five), Dunstall Park/Valley Park (at least ten), Fens Pools (four), Netherton Hill (six), Park Lime Pits (nine), Saltwells LNR (over 12), Sandwell Valley (40 noted on May 1 st, but presumably many were on passage), Sheep- wash UP (six) and Wyken Slough (nine). Several sites showed increases of up to a third over 1994. On autumn passage there was an exceptional peak of 19 at Wyken Slough on August 11th, while on September 16th two males in gardens behind the Birmingham Repertory Theatre were very unusual.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Common summer resident. Average: April 21st (58) - September 11th (57) Early birds appeared at Belvide on April 14th and Brandon on 18th, with regular records from 20th. A good number of records were received for late September, the last in Valley Park on 27th. Warks Reported from only 18 localities (cf. 27 in 1994), but with major increases noted at BAD Kineton (32, more than double the average count) and The Somers (ten singing, cf. four in 1994). Other territory counts included 12 at Brandon (as 1994), six at Dosthill-Kingsbury WP, four at both Earlswood Lakes and Wood End (Kingsbury), and three at Bidford-Marlcliff. Worcs Breeding season reports from 25 localities distributed throughout the county, with five singing males at both Lower Moor and Pound Green Common the most reported. The regular survey of the whole Malvem area produced 77 129

singing males, exactly the same as in 1994. Staffs Singing males reported from 19 sites, with breeding pairs at Belvide (two), Coombes Valley (19, cf. 23 in 1994), Doxey (two), Pendeford Mill NR (two) and Tittesworth (13). There were also five singing males at both Highgate Common and in the gasometer area of Park Hall CP in May. W Mid Successful breeding reported on Netherton Hill and at Wyken Slough (three singing males, with one pair nesting), and was thought probable in Sandwell Valley (max. four singing on May 7th). Regular singing males also at Bartley, Dickens Heath, Dorridge Park, Meriden GP (two), Mons Hill, Sheepwash UP (max. two), Sutton Park and Tile Hill Wood. Two sang in Valley Park during May but with no evidence of breeding at this once favoured locality. More isolated records included a pair at Harbome NR on April 30th and May 17th, and one in Hayhead Wood on June 2nd. Autumn passage birds were reported from Fens Pools (two seen on six dates from July 28th-September 10th), Wyken Slough (present up to September 15th, max. five in August) and Valley Park.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Reported in the breeding season from 22 localities, with the larger territory counts coming from: BAD Kineton (29, about average), Bidford-Marlcliff (seven), Brandon (eight), Coombe (25), Ladywalk (four), The Somers (four) and Wood End-Piccadilly (11). In addition, good numbers were reported from the Dosthill/Kingsbury area. The largest count on autumn passage was ten at Nebsworth, llmington Downs on September 17th. Wintering birds remained scarce at the beginning of the year, with just two males and a female in llmington on January 2nd, a female in Alcester on 27th, a male at Kineton from 30th up to February 26th, and a pair in Stratford during the latter month. More were seen during November-December, with one or two at Brandon, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton, llmington, Kineton, Lillington, Radway and Southam. Worcs An increase in the breeding population at Alfrick from two pairs to four; whilst three pairs at both North Piddle and Upton Warren, and 102 singing males in the Malvern area all reflected a similar situation to last year. Breeding season reports from 18 other localities, with six singing males at Westwood the most reported. Capturing birder's imaginations far more readily were wintering birds, mainly in gardens. There were 17 reports in the first winter period and 16 in the second, with a total number of 53 individuals recorded. The largest counts were three in an Evesham garden from January 1st-3rd, four in a garden at Lower Moor throughout December and three at Littleworth on December 22nd. Staffs Reported from 32 localities in the breeding season, with the larger territory counts coming from: Belvide (11), Blithfield (five), Coombes Valley (15, cf. 11 in 1994), Highgate Common (four) and Pendeford Mill NR (nine). During the winter months birds were reported from Belvide and Keele University, with garden records at Clayton, Hartshill, Loggerheads, Trentham, Trentham Park and Westlands, most of these being in the Newcastle district. 130

W Mid Breeding season reports came from 24 localities, a substantial increase over last year. The largest territory counts came from: Bartlev dour), Dorridge Park (four), Dunstall Park/Valley Park (16), Fens Pools (four), Haden Hill Park/R. Stour corridor (seven), Harbome NR (four), Mons Hill (ten, cf. 12 in 1994), Park Lime Pits (four), Saltwells Wood (four), Tile Hill Wood (six) and Wyken Slough (eight, cf. six in 1993-4). Good numbers were reported from the latter site on autumn passage, with a peak of 16 on August 17th and September 6th. First winter records came from 12 sites involving 14 birds, whilst a total of 22 were reported from 12 sites during the last two months. As usual most were from gardens, with a max. of six together in Four Oaks on December 22nd.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent though declining summer resident, now mainly restricted to the north and west of the Region. Average: April 21st (59) - August 24th (46) First heard on Cannock Chase and in the Wyre Forest on the rather early date of April 14th. The last was in Sandwell Valley on September 10th. Warks An early return migrant at Claverdon STW on July 3rd was the only record. Worcs Five singing males along the Malverns was a slight recovery from the trough of just three pairs in 1994 (cf. 38 singing males here in 1988). In the Wyre Forest there were seven singing along Dowles Brook, three at Hitterhill and two at Town Coppice. Elsewhere, the only breeding season reports were of singles at Lickey Hills and Sling Pool. Noted on spring passage at Stour Hill, Trench Wood and Upton Warren. Staffs Singing males noted at: Alton, Basford Green, Brakenhurst North, Brocton Coppice (bred successfully), Chillington Lower Avenue, Coombes Valley (eight, cf. nine in 1994), Hanchurch (three) Highgate Common, Ipstones Pools, Punchbowl, Seven Springs (three) and Trentham Park, the latter in conifers. Passage birds were reported at Belvide, Little Wyrley and West- lands in Newcastle. W Mid A good year for passage migrants. In spring there were single singing males in Saltwells Wood on April 27th and May 1st-2nd, in Allesley Park on April 29th and at Moseley on May 3rd. Autumn passage birds were noted at Penn in Wolverhampton on July 19th, Berkswell churchyard on August 7th and in Sandwell Valley on September 10th.

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita A very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Reported from 23 localities during the breeding season, with the largest territory counts at BAD Kineton (22, just below average), Bidford-Marlcliff (three), Brandon (eight), Chesterton Pools (three), Close Wood (four), Coombe (18-20, cf. 30 in 1993), llmington Downs (eight) and Wood End- Piccadilly (seven). Singles at Whatcote on January 2nd and Stockingford on February 20th were the only late winter records, while the first spring migrants appeared at Coombe, Dosthill and Kenilworth on March 11th. Autumn passage produced ten at Nebsworth on llmington Downs on September 16th, 131

with 12 there on 20th. Late migrants were seen at Draycote on October 28th, Wormleighton Res on 30th, BAD Kineton on November 1st and Lighthorne Quarry on 2nd; with up to three remaining at Brandon and two at Coton until the end of the year. Two were at llmington on November 26th, one at Dosthill on 29th and finally, one ringed at Lillington on December 22nd. Worcs Apart from North Piddle, where six pairs was double the number in 1994, census results revealed a stable population. Six pairs at Alfrick, 114 in the Malvern area and five at Upton Warren were all about the same as the previous year. Singing males reported from 28 further localities, with 14 at Castlemorton Common and 11 at Kempsey Common the only double figure counts. Several sites recorded influxes of migrants in mid-September including 44 mist-netted on September 9th at Castlemorton Common, with counts of 20 at both Strensham and Upton Warren, and 22 in Happy Valley. Wintering singles were noted at Broadway GP, Hallow, Larford, Lower Moor, Malvern Link and Oldington, with two at Kempsey on December 10th. Staffs Four pairs bred at both Belvide and Tittesworth. Singing males reported from 26 further sites, with nine at Coombes Valley (cf. seven in 1994), five at Highgate Common, eight at Knypersley, four at Pendeford Mill NR, six at Trentham Park and four at Westport. On passage, 20 were counted at Belvide on September 1st. Wintering birds reported from Blithfield, Chase- water (two), Clay Mills, Gailey, Trentham Park, Westport (two, on only one date) and Yoxall Park. W Mid Reported from 24 localities in the breeding season, with the largest territory counts coming from: Dunstall Park/Valley Park (five), Mons Hill CBC (seven, cf. five in 1993-4), Park Lime Pits (four), Sandwell Valley (seven), Sutton Park (seven in the north-east section) and Tile Hill Wood (eight). A good autumn passage was reported at Wyken Slough (although no breeding there this year), with a peak of 17 on September 6th. Despite an unusual lack of overwintering birds early in the year, a good scattering occurred during the final two months with two at Park Lime Pits and singles at Fens Pools, Netherton Res, Oldbury, along the R. Rea in Selly Park, St. Matthews Church in Walsall, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Valley Park.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Abundant summer resident, though with some decline in recent years. Average: March 26th (61) - October 5th (61) The first spring migrant was at Bittell on March 23rd, with a trickle of records until April 5th when the main arrival began. In autumn there were more October records than for several years, mostly in the first week; but with late birds at both Brandon and Draycote on 16th. Warks Reported from only 20 localities, with the best territory counts coming from: BAD Kineton (105 birds was just above average), Bidford-Marlcliff (four), Coombe (26), Piccadilly-Wood End (16, cf. ten in 1994), The Somers (ten, cf. 16 in 1994) and Whateley (five). Spring counts, presumably involving passage migrants, included 13 at Coton on April 11th, 12 at Ladywalk on 14th, 35 at Brandon on 15th and 15 at Draycote on 22nd. The largest post-breeding count was 25 at Brandon on August 5th. 132

Worcs Transect counts throughout the Malvern area produced 436 singing males (cf. 369 in 1994) MHC. The North Piddle CBC produced a recovery to eight pairs after five last year, while Upton Warren also recorded a slight increase to seven pairs, compared with six in 1993-4. Elsewhere, counts of 26 and 23 singing males at Castlemorton Common and Happy Valley on April 14th, 12 at Bittell on 16th, 12 on Walton Hill on 21st and 12 at Kempsey Common on 30th probably included some passage birds. Records of singing males from mid-May onwards are more likely to indicate local breeding strength, so counts of nine at Habberley Valley, ten at Hawkbatch Wood, 13 at Pound Green Common and ten at Uffmoor Wood fall into that category. Breeding season records from a further 19 sites around the county. Staffs Singing males were widely reported with the highest counts at: Basford Green (13), Belvide (16, cf. 15 in 1994, ten in 1992), Coombes Valley (122, cf. 128 in 1994), Hanchurch Woods (22), Highgate Common (16), North Staffs Moors (20), Tittesworth (73) and Wetley Common (24). In addition, 'good numbers' were reported on Cannock Chase, while conversely Betley Mere CES produced only four adults and two juveniles trapped, a further reduction on previous years. W Mid Breeding season records received from 18 localities, with the best territory counts at: Dunstall and Valley Parks (12 in song on May 7th), Harborne NR (three-four, half that of 1994), Mons Hill CBC (three, cf. one in 1994), Park Lime Pits (six), Sandwell Valley (30-35), Sheepwash UP (eight in song on May 1st), Tile Hill Wood (three) and Wyken Slough (11, a further decline from 14 in 1994 and 20 in 1992-3). In Sutton Park it was thought to have declined recently in the north-east section, probably due to habitat change. A good autumn passage was reported from Wyken Slough, with 40 on July 27th and 30 on August 11th the best counts.

Chiffchaff x Willow Warbler Phylloscopus sp. These birds showed mixed physical and vocal characteristics and were thought to be hybrids. Worcs One singing at Beckford on May 17th and June 6th, and another trapped at Upton Warren on August 16th. W Mid An unmated male held territory at Wyken Slough from March 13th-July 11th. Interestingly this bird used mainly pure Chiffchaff song early in the season when these birds were passing through, but after the local Willow Warblers began to establish territories it switched over to using the typical cadence of that species. At all times it also used an alternative song with mixed species characteristics.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Common resident and winter visitor. Warks At BAD Kineton 18 on May 21 st was twice the average count. Otherwise very little relevant information, although reports came from 16 localities. On October 19th a 'large fall' was noted in the Fenny Compton area, including over 20 in gorse bushes on the otherwise bare top of Gredenton Hill. The only other substantial parties reported were of 12 at Wormleighton Res in 133

November and ten at Ufton Fields in December. Worcs Breeding season reports from 16 sites, with 12 singing at Coldridge Wood the most reported. A small passage detected in mid-October, with 20 in Happy Valley from October 8th-10th the largest count. Small numbers seen outside the breeding season at a further eight sites, with 12 at Lickey Hills on Decem- ber 12th the best record. Staffs The only relevent breeding information concerned 12 pairs at Coombes Valley (cf. eight in 1994, five in 1993), and four singing males in Trentham Park on April 11 th. There were annual peaks of 20 at Belvide on October 26th and ten at Highgate Common in December, while reports of mainly single birds came from another 17 sites. W Mid Confirmed breeding records from Brandwood Cemetery and Haden Hill Park, with probable or possible nesting also at: Berkswell, Handsworth Wood, Harborne, Meriden, Mons Hill, Sandwell Valley, Tettenhall and Valley Park. Widely reported outside the breeding season, with a report of it being 'very common' at Harborne NR. The largest parties were seen as usual in autumn, with up to six regularly at Fens Pools, maxima of ten in Sandwell Valley and nine at Wyken Slough during October, and eight along Dunstall and Valley Parks on November 26th.

Rrecre6t Regulus ignicapillus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred 1975 and possibly several subsequent years up to 1989. Warks Singles at Kingsbury WP on January 11th PC and Brandon (a male) on April 9th per FGS. Worcs A male was discovered singing in a plantation on Bredon Hill on May 7th WFP et al. Another lucky observer found one in his garden at Droitwich on December 9th AGS. Staffs One visited a Tamworth garden on January 15th JK.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common though declining summer resident. Average: May 2nd (59) - September 26th (59) A typically late arrival with the first at Draycote on May 6th after which birds were noted daily. The last was seen at Wyken Slough on September 27th. Warks Several reports of a continued decline, eg. none in the Coleshill area for the first time since 1991 and just one sighting at Ladywalk. Pairs bred successfully at: Bidford-on-Avon, Bramcote Barracks, Coombe (four), Dordon STW, Fenny Compton (three), Packington, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston and The Somers (two). Spring and summer birds were also noted at: BAD Kineton (three), Compton Vemey, Edgehill Wood, Hawkesbury, llmington, Kineton, Ladbroke, Lighthorne Rough, Oversley Green, Shustoke, Stockton and Tysoe. Autumn passage birds were seen at a further ten sites, with the largest count of five at Shustoke on September 11th. Worcs Pairs bred at Abberton, Pipers Hill (two), Upton Warren and Web Heath. Elsewhere, breeding season reports from Alfrick, Earls Common, Evesham, Hall Green, Lickey Hills, Midsummer Hill, Old Hills, Sling Pool, Stanford 134

Court, Stoke Bliss, The Gullet, Westwood, Worcester Cathedral and Yeald Wood. Ones and twos on autumn passage at seven places from August 20th- September 16th. Staffs Pairs bred successfully at Belvide (two), Coombes Valley (five, cf. seven in 1994, five in 1993), Danesbridge (two), Doxey (two), Hollybush, Pendeford Mill NR and Swallow Moss. Birds were seen at nine other sites in the spring, while autumn passage maxima included 12 at Belvide on September 1 st, four at Little Wyrley on 9th, three at Blithfield on 10th and four at Westport on 15th. W Mid Another very poor year, with just one or two breeding records. A pair bred in Berkswell, while an adult with three juveniles at Bloxwich on August 12th may have been of local origin. Very scarce on spring passage, the only records being at Wyken Slough on May 10th and 30th, Bluebell Park in Dudley on 26th (the male of a pair in song), and at Sheepwash UP on June 8th. Much more numerous on autumn passage with records of one-two on up to three dates from July 19th-September 27th at: Brownhills Nature Trail, Clayhanger, Dorridge Park, Dunstall Park (three on September 14th), Fens Pools, Fishley, Hayhead Wood, Lapal, Park Lime Pits (four dates), Sandwell Valley (five dates, max. three on September 23rd), Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park, Tidbury Green (five dates) and Wyken Slough (16 dates, max. six on September 3rd).

Pied Flycatcher Flcedula hypoleuca Frequent summer resident and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Worcs and Staffs. Average: April 20th (49) - September 7th (30) Early birds appeared at Gullet Quarry (Malvern) on April 7th and Brandon on 9th, with the main arrival from mid-month. The last autumn bird was at Packington on September 17th. Warks Single males in spring at Brandon on April 9th and 16th, and at Draycote on 22nd. On return passage, further singles at Compton Vemey on August 20th, Shustoke on 29th and September 16th, and at Packington on September 17th. Seven was easily the best total since 1988, when 11 were reported. Worcs On the Malverns bred at two sites, with six young fledged from one nest box at one and 79 fledged from 14 nest-boxes at the other. In the Wyre Forest at least seven pairs bred along Dowles Brook; while three pairs were present on the Lickey Hills. Also noted in the breeding season at Busk Coppice, Sling Pool, Trapnell Brook and Wallshill Wood. Passage birds were noted from April 21st-May 19th at Alfrick, Bewdley, Bittell, Cofton Richards, Crowle and Uffmoor Wood. Staffs Breeding was reported from Blithfield (one pair successful in nestbox, with a second male in mid-May), Cannock Chase (a pair present at Brocton Coppice, with two pairs successful at Seven Springs, one in a nestbox and the other in a natural site), Coombes Valley (40 pairs raised 203 young, cf. 39 in 1994, 34 in 1993, 31 in 1991-2), and Knypersley (probably six pairs bred). Singing males were also present at Alton in spring. In May, passage birds were noted at Belvide, Chillington and at the Springslade Cafe on Cannock Chase. W Mid Single males were in song at Saltwells Wood and Sheepwash UP on May 1 st, with another male in Sandwell Valley on 3rd. 135

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus Scarce and declining passage migrant and winter visitor. No records. The first modern record came in 1959 and since 1963 it has missed only two years (1969 and 1992). However numbers have generally declined since the peak years of the early 1970's, probably due to more sedentary breeding populations, and in recent years it is fast approaching rarity status. It has therefore been decided to replace this species in 'Category A' and thus all post-1995 records will require a written description.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common resident. Warks At BAD Kineton a summer count of 22 was 66% above average. Otherwise little comparative information, though parties of 15 or more were reported to be common in winter. However flock size was generally down with the largest being up to 30 feeding on nuts and suet at the Ladywalk feeders, with groups of 24 at Brandon and 20 at Radway in October, and 30 at Wormleighton Res in November. Worcs Breeding season reports from 15 localities, and continuing to increase at all the CBC sites. Three pairs were at Alfrick (cf. two in 1994), four pairs at North Piddle (where the pre-1994 average was barely one pair a year), and nine pairs at Upton Warren (cf. six in 1994). The largest parties reported were 30 at Westwood on January 14th, 25 at Abberton on June 6th, 24 at Happy Valley on October 21st and 22 at Tibberton on November 12th. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Belvide (five), Coombes Valley (eight), Doxey (two on CBC for first time) and Pendeford Mill NR (three). Amongst the larger flocks reported were 90 at Coombes Valley during August, 30 at Pendeford Mill NR on October 18th, 25 at Little Wyrley on 28th, 30 at Highgate Common on December 5th and 20 at Swallow Moss on 24th. W Mid Records came from 25 localities, 15 in the breeding season; with at least five pairs at Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Fens Pools and Sandwell Valley, four at Park Lime Pits and three at Mons Hill CBC, Tile Hill Wood, Westboume Road Leisure Gardens and Wyken Slough. Counts of pairs were very similar to last year suggesting that the population has levelled out, though poor breeding success was noted at several sites. Flock size was generally down, with the larger counts consisting of 60 (in several parties) at Sandwell Valley on January 22nd, 22 in Valley Park on August 17th, 30 at Wyken Slough on September 22nd and October 3rd, and 25 at the M & B training ground in Edgbaston on October 30th. Birds were reported visiting garden feeding stations in three localities.

Marsh Tit Parus palustris Fairly common resident. Warks Said to be resident in good numbers in Ufton and Long Itchington Woods, with three pairs reported from Waverley Wood and 'usual numbers' at Coombe. Breeding records also came from Bowshot, Edgehill and Wellesbourne Woods. In the south-east, there were 22 reports to BOS from 13 localities. 136

Worcs Much more widespread than Willow Tit. Five pairs bred along the Malvems from Britich Camp to tho Gullot Quarry. Notod in tho brooding coacon at a further 26 localities throughout the county. Staffs Very under-recorded, with two pairs at Coombes Valley (cf. three in 1994) the only breeding record. Other reports, mainly of single birds, came from: Belvide, Clayton, Doxey, Chillington Lower Avenue, Pendeford Mill NR, Sheepwalks, The Whitemoor, Westport and Wetton Mill. W Mid Now very rare, with only singles in Sandwell Valley on February 9th, 12th, 18th and March 23rd, and at Netherton Res on February 20th.

Willow Tit Parus montanus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding was proved or suspected at: Brandon, Coombe, Exhall, Kingsbury, Ladywalk (two pairs), Marston Jabbett, Oakley Wood, The Somers, Warton, Whatcote and Wolston SF. Much more widespread than Marsh Tit in the county, particularly in the north. This was also apparent in the south-east, where 39 sightings reported from 17 sites BOS. Up to six visited the Ladywalk feeding station in February. Worcs Noted in the breeding season at: Astley, Bittell, Bredon Hill, Kyre Pool, Shortwood Roughs, The Knapp, Trench Wood, Trimpley and Upton Warren. Other records came from Abberley Hill, Arley Wood, Berrington and Coldridge Wood. Staffs Pairs bred at: Belvide, Doxey (two, for first time on CBC), Tlttesworth (two) and Westport. No breeding this year at Pendeford Mill NR. Elsewhere reports came from: Alton, Brocton Coppice, Highgate Common, Elford, Little Wyrley, Wall Grange and Weeping Cross. W Mid Confirmed breeding at: Dunstall Park/Valley Park (up to four pairs, with 12 counted on November 26th), Harborne NR, Park Lime Pits, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough, with several pairs reported nesting along Harborne Walkway. Additionally Mons Hill CBC held only one territory (cf. three in 1994), while there were single pairs in the breeding season at Brades Hall and Woodshires Green. It was also frequently encountered in Sandwell Valley throughout the year but with no proof of breeding. The only other reports were of one or two regularly in Woodgate Valley from August 6th to the year's end and one in Sutton Park on September 16th. Fairly uncommon in the county or is it just overlooked?

Coal Tit Parus ater Common resident and eruptive winter visitor. Warks At BAD Kineton the summer count of 13 was nearly three times the average, while ten pairs at Coombe was a further increase (cf. eight in 1993, five in 1992). Otherwise little information as usual, although good numbers were said to be resident in Ufton and Long Itchington Woods, and breeding was proved at Edgehill Wood and The Somers. The largest party was only 12 at Wormleighton Res on November 8th. Worcs Very little information received. Reported from just 14 sites, with eight singing males at both Arley/Coldridge Woods and in the vicinity of Lodge Hill Farm, 137

Wyre Forest. Outside the breeding season a large feeding flock at Arley Wood peaked at 50 on December 28th. Staffs 14 pairs bred at Coombes Valley, a significant drop from the 27 of 1994. There were no other breeding records, though reports (mainly of singles) came from a further 22 localities. Singles at Uoxey on September 4th and December 12th were the first records for the site. W Mid Probable or confirmed breeding noted at: Allesley Park, Berkswell, Brand- wood Cemetery, Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Meriden, Mons Hill, Sandwell Valley and Tile Hill Wood. Outside the breeding season reports came from 11 further localities.

Blue Tit Parus caeruleus Abundant resident. Warks As usual little information, but 45 at BAD Kineton in May was above average, though clutches of six and seven at Eathorpe were rather small and may have indicated a poor breeding season. A high count of 149 at Brandon on July 9th was thought to be a reserve record, while a flock of over 40 was at Wormleighton Res on November 8th. Worcs 36 young were fledged from six nest-boxes at Timberhonger. CBC data revealed contrasting fortunes at different sites; with a decrease from 23 pairs to 19 at Alfrick, but a significant increase at Upton Warren where nine pairs was almost double the number in 1994.15 pairs at North Piddle was down on 1994, but still an above average total for this site. Staffs A further increase was noted at Coombes Valley where 154 pairs bred (cf. 124 in 1994). Maxima reported from regularly counted sites included 23 at Highgate Common on January 18th and 29 at Pendeford Mill NR on August 28th. At Betley Mere CES seven adults and 15 juveniles were trapped during the standardised sessions, which is about average for recent years. W Mid 17 territories on the Mons Hill CBC were down from the 21 of 1994. Five contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey was much as last year (when four). A total of 46 were counted flying across the grounds of Edgbaston Health Clinic in thirty seconds on July 4th, while the usual post- breeding flock at Wyken Slough peaked at 50 on September 22nd. Other good counts included 30 at the M & B training ground in Edgbaston on October 30th and an impressive 101 along Dunstall Park and Valley Parks on November 26th.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks At BAD Kineton the summer count of 47 was more than twice the average, while at Ladywalk it often outnumbered the Blue Tit in the autumn and early winter indicating a good breeding season. Conversely, numbers at Brandon were extremely low, with no count reaching double figures. Worcs A poor breeding season at Timberhonger where just five young fledged from three nestboxes, and in a West Hagley garden where a breeding attempt in a nestbox failed. Seven singing males at Upton Warren represented a decrease on 11 the previous year. Other sites reported a more stable 138

situation, with 12 pairs at Alfrick, ten at North Piddle and 17 in song at Old Hills, all considered about normal. Staffs A further decrease at Coombes Vaiiey to 69 breeding pairs (cf. 73 in 1994,90 in 1993), in contrast to a rise in the Blue Tit population. At Highgate Common, regular counts during the year peaked at 26 on February 17th. W Mid Little comparitive data received as usual, though 22 territories on the Mons Hill CBC was down (cf. 28 in 1994). Three contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey was similar to last year (when four), while breeding numbers appeared stable along Dunstall Park/Valley Park. The largest counts were of 20 at Wyken Slough on September 4th-5th, 30 at the M & B training ground in Edgbaston on October 30th and 32 along Dunstall and Valley Harks oh November 26th.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common resident. Warks Under-recorded. Bred at Church Pool Covert, Coombe and Packington, up to a dozen seen in Ufton and Long Itchington Woods, five pairs at Kingsbury Wood and a pair at Whittleford Wood. Noted at 11 localities in the south-east of the county BOS. Worcs A good breeding season at Malvern, where 40 young fledged from six nestboxes on the southern hills. Also noted at Alfrick, Arley Wood, Bewdley, Bittell, Broadway, Chaddesley Woods, Chase End Wood (four pairs), Dowles Brook, Eymore Wood, Hawkbatch, Hillditch Coppice, Hitterhill, Lickey Hills, Marsh Common, Shernal Green, Tlmberhonger, Town Coppice, Upton Warren (where scarce), West Hagley and Westwood. Staffs Breeding pairs only reported at Coombes Valley (five, cf. seven in 1994), Brocton Coppice (two) and Pendeford Mill NR (in a nestbox). In May, a male was observed feeding a female at Basford Green and a pair were seen taking food into a nest hole at Ridgehill Wood. Elsewhere, reports of mainly single birds came from 23 other sites. W Mid Breeding proved or suspected at: Berkswell, Bromwich Wood (after a long absence), Cuckoo's Nook, Haden Hill Park, Harborne Walkway, Saltwells Wood, Tile Hill Wood (four pairs), Valley Park (first breeding record in recent years), Westbourne Road Leisure Gardens and Wrens Nest Hill. Noted in Sandwell Valley during the early months but not known to have bred this year, while further records came from: Brandwood Cemetery, Dickens Heath, Dorridge, Handsworth Wood (two), Park Lime Pits, Tettenhall, Walsall Arbore- tum, Wergs and Winterbourne (Edgbaston). A bird at Wyken Slough on April 3rd was only the second known record there, after the first in February 1988.

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks Usual good numbers bred at both Coombe and Packington, with further breeding records from: Edgehill Wood, Fenny Compton, Ladywalk, Priors Marston, The Somers and Wolston SF. Five were seen at Brandon in January. Worcs Noted at: Alfrick (one pair), Chaddesley Woods, Dowles Brook, Eymore 139

Wood, Grimley, Hawkbatch, Hitterhill, Old Hills (five pairs), Ribbesford Wood, Shrawley Wood, Tlbberton, Upton Warren (three pairs) and Westwood. Staffs Pairs bred at Brocton Coppice, Coombes Valley (16, cf. 12 in 1994), Doxey (two, on CBC), Pendeford Mill NR and Tlttesworth (five). Seen throughout the year at widespread localities. WMid Breeding was proved or thought probable at Berkswell, Haden Hill Park, Sandwell Valley, Tile Hill Wood (four pairs) and Whitley. There were two territories on the Mons Hill CBC, with further breeding season records at Bromwich Wood, Cuckoo's Nook and in Valley Park. Outside the breeding season, there were two regularly at Park Lime Pits in eight months and up to three at Wyken Slough during nine months, while more irregular sightings came from a further nine sites. Very little information received on what is presumably an overlooked or under-recorded species.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Worcs One seen and photographed at Grit Lane, Malvern on January 26th BC. Staffs One at Goldsitch Moss on April 9th-1 Oth AB, ESC, AH et al.

Jay Garrulus glandarius Common resident. Warks Few records received. Two pairs bred at Alvecote, two at Ladywalk and one in Church Pool Covert. The largest counts were of nine at Brandon on April 2nd and eight there on October 30th. Worcs No evidence of any status change. Records received from: Alfrick, Broome, Coldridge Wood, Dowles Brook, Eymore Wood, Grimley, Holy Cross, Hillditch Coppice, Hitterhill, Lickey Hills, Shrawley Wood, Suckley Hills, Tlmberhonger, Town Coppice, Uffmoor Wood, Upton Warren, Wassell Wood, Westwood and Wilden. Staffs Five pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. seven in 1994) and four at Tittesworth. The largest numbers reported were six in Brocton Coppice on March 6th and ten at Coombes Valley in October, while regular counts at Highgate Common peaked with five on May 2nd and December 14th. Smaller numbers consisting mainly of ones or twos noted at 21 other sites. WMid Breeding season records came from: Berkswell, Brandwood Cemetery, Edgbaston, Harbome NR/Walkway (a few pairs), Mons Hill CBC (one territory as in 1994), Moseley, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Tile Hill Wood, Valley Park and Westboume Road Leisure Gardens. Other records received from: Bordesley Green, Castle Bromwich, Cuckoo's Nook, Handsworth Wood, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough. The highest count was of only five at Park Lime Pits in late April.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. The Westport roost count was a Regional record. The previous highest totals of around 150-160 were all made at traditional winter roosts in Edgbaston, Sutton Park and Westport. 140

Warks The summer count of 48 at BAD Kineton was a third above average. Otherwise the largest reported counts were of only 16 at Radway on January 27th, 18 at Brandon on February 20th and 30 roosting in willows at Draycote on March 22nd. Worcs Population stable at Alfrick (four pairs, cf. three in 1994) and Old Hills (12 pairs for second successive year). The largest concentrations were 62 in a pre-roost flock at Upton Warren on January 2nd, 27 at Ribbesford Wood on 15th, 33 at Walton Hill on February 23rd and 20 in Happy Valley on October 26th. Staffs An exceptional 170 were counted in the Westport roost on January 21st. Elsewhere in the county, the largest flocks reported were of 20 at Chasewater on January 9th, 26 at Brocton Coppice on February 24th, 29 at Haniey Forest Park on 28th, 50 at Little Wyrley on March 1st, 20 at Doxey on November 8th and 34 in Hanley Festival Park on December 23rd. W Mid Limited breeding data received, with nests reported from only seven sites. Seven territories were on Mons Hill CBC (cf. nine in 1994, six in 1993), while there were ten pairs at Wyken Slough (an increase from eight in 1994 and seven in 1993). The largest gatherings were in spring and included 76 in Sandwell Valley on March 1st, 40 roosting in a blackthorn thicket at Hawkes- bury Locks on 9th, 84 along Dunstall and Valley Parks on 26th and 45 at Wyken Slough on April 4th. An unusual record concerned a bird seen nest- building at Park Lime Pits on December 27th. Leucistic birds were noted at Coombeswood on May 1st and llley on September 13th. Not well recorded this year, more breeding data and roost counts would be welcome.

Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks Family parties were noted on the marsh at Ladywalk in September turning over the turf in search of grubs, a skill copied by Carrion Crows. A very pale individual with silvery back and wings summered at Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth. Up to 850 roosted in a wood on the Fenny Compton Hills from October-December, while other large counts included 220 at Charlecote in July, 250 at Edgehill Wood in October and 300 at Chesterton in December. Worcs Increased at Alfrick, where five pairs bred (cf. one in 1994). The largest concentrations were of 250 at Pirton on March 5th, 800 flying over Welland on July 1st, 300 at Throckmorton on 4th and an exceptional 1500-2000 feeding on maize stubble at Little Malvern on December 10th. Staffs The largest assemblies were of 258 in Trentham Park on April 11th, 119 at Coombes Valley during June and 100 at Sheepwalks on October 31st, with smaller ones of 30 at Ash Bank on June 6th, 50 at Highgate Common on July 17th and September 19th, 62 at Pendeford Mill NR on November 1st, and 50 at Hockley on November 23rd and 25th. W Mid Breeding birds reported from: Dunstall ParkA/alley Park (at least eight pairs on the periphery), Edgbaston Park/Winterbourne area, Handsworth Wood, Harborne, King's Norton church and Park Lime Pits. Present in the breeding season on Mons Hill and reported to be resident in the south Walsall area throughout the year (max. 18). The larger reported flocks consisted of 50 in Sandwell Valley on February 4th and September 23rd, 120 at Berkswell Hall 141

on February 18th, 50 at Park Lime Pits on August 21st, 40 at Bartley on November 24th and 150 foraging with other corvids in Valley Park (before going to roost on the Wightwick Ridge) on December 31st.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Abundant resident in rural areas, although with some local decline. Warks No information on the Sych Wood (or any other) rookery. The largest flocks reported were of 150 at Coton and Radway in March, 700 over Ladywalk in August, 200 at Wormleighton Res in October and 350 at Chesterton in December. A roost on the Fenny Compton Hills peaked at over 800 on November 5th. Worcs Not enough breeding information to extrapolate broad conclusions, but declines noted at Alfrick where eight pairs compared to 11 in 1994, and at North Piddle where the rookery contained just ten occupied nests as opposed to a peak of 116 as recently as 1986. 41 nests were counted at Hewell Grange. The only flocks reported were of 60 at Castlemorton Common on March 5th, 200 at nearby Welland on July 1st and 900 at Throckmorton on July 4th. Staffs Counts of nests at rookeries included 147 at Beck Wood near Madeley, 52 at Coombes Valley (cf. 46 in 1994) and 19 at Keele University, whilst three rookeries were located within the Little Aston-Lynn-Stonnal area. The larger flocks reported were of 100 at Highgate Common on July 3rd, 400 at Little Wyrley on August 6th, 750 roosting in Hockley Wood on November 23rd and 25th, and 550 at Coombes Valley during the same month. W Mid Rookery nest counts included: Bosty Lane in Aldridge (four), Gibbet Hill in Coventry (85), Meriden (90), Pelsall High Street (six), Potter's Green in Coventry (12, cf. seven in 1994), Sandwell Valley (65, cf. 45 in 1994) and Valley Park (13 at the traditional site, cf. four in 1994). Largest flocks reported were of 42 over Wyken Slough on January 16th, 32 on pasture in Aldridge on September 9th, 22 at Cuckoo's Nook on November 8th (including a bird with completely white primaries and white cap) and 150 in Valley Park on December 31st.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone corone Very common resident. Warks A flock of 80 at Fenny Compton on November 13th was the largest count, with 30-50 at Brandon, Draycote and Ladywalk also during the winter months. At BAD Kineton the summer count of 55 on May 21st was only half that of recent years. Worcs Very little information received. A slight increase noted at Alfrick where four pairs compared to three in 1994. The largest counts reported were 38 at Shortwood Roughs on April 9th and 200 at Throckmorton on July 4th. Staffs Six pairs bred at Tittesworth and five at Coombes Valley. Notable counts included 260 at Bemmersley Tip on January 6th, 70 at Pendeford Mill NR on March 16th, 70 at Blithfield on August 26th and 75 at Belvide on September 26th. At Tittesworth, a partial albino juvenile with white primary and secondary feather bases, was present from September 8th to the year's end. 142

W Mid Breeding reported from only nine localities, including at least ten nests along Dunstall and Valley Parks, six at Park Lime Pits and the usual three at Wyken Slough. At the latter site a bird was 'sitting tight' on a nest on January 23rd but it was subsequently abandoned. The larger counts comprised flocks of 50 at both Shut End on March 8th and Bilston on 31st, 60 at Park Lime Pits during April, 149 in Sandwell Valley on May 4th, 75 on sports pitches in Valley Park on October 23rd and 80 in Sutton Park on November 14th. A 'runt' bird present at Wyken Slough from March-October, was approximately the size of a Jackdaw and had greyish secondaries.

Raven Corvus corax An uncommon visitor and scarce (though increasing) resident in Worcs and Staffs. Very rare elsewhere.

Ravens (Phil Jones)

Worcs The spread continues. A pair bred along the Malverns and another in the south-east of the county. Also noted at four sites along the Teme Valley and at three localities in the north and north-west during the breeding season several observers. The early part of the year also saw records of three at Lower Sapey on January 2nd RM, singles at Bredon's Hardwick on January 18th and March 19th SJH, and one at Pirton on May 6th GHP. Small parties included nine over North Hill on April 1st MHC and six near Pershore on July 11th PFW. After the breeding season, two over Saxons Lode on August 7th LAB, singles at Bredon's Hardwick on 16th SJH, Castlemorton on 17th MAS, Grimley on 28th SMW; Crowle on October 18th, with a pair there on 143

December 14th AHT, KHT; two in Chaddesley Woods on November 19th JHS, singles at Larford on November 21st TMH, Powick on December 5th MAS, West Hagley on 10th LRB, Walton Hill on 17th SMW and two at Oakley Pool on 24th RM, all bode well for the future. Staffs Nesting was attempted at one site, though one of the pair apparently disappeared in April and the final outcome was unknown. On the Sheepwalks (Enville), two were present on January 6th MDJ and 8th MY, with five on July 24th DAE, two on October 1st DAE and 14th RF, SAR, and one at nearby Four Ashes on December 12th MH. Elsewhere in the county, there were two at Swallow Moss on February 12th DAE, two at Dydon Wood on March 12th AB, singles at Knotbury on April 8th PDH, REH, Belvide on 15th SN and at Seven Springs (Cannock Chase) on 21st ESC, one at Baldstones on September 29th AH, two at Tittesworth on November 5th with one remaining until 8th BH, JO, PW, and finally, two at Rudyard on December 8th and one on 9th AB.

W Mid A pair flew over Pedmore on September 6th WFP.

Starling Sturnus vulgaris Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding season numbers at BAD Kineton continue to show a long-term decline. Flocks were small, with 250 at Radway in February-March and 500 on pasture at Fenny Compton on October 14th, the largest. The Brandon roost held maxima of only 350 in June and 400 in November, while 'large flocks' were seen flying over Ladywalk towards Birmingham in autumn. Visible migration was prominant at Fenny Compton from October 8th-28th, with many flocks moving south-west, evidently following the lines of the hills along the Northants border. Worcs No significant changes in breeding strength noted. A pair at Malvern Link were seen carrying nesting material to a hole on the odd date of October 23rd. The only large winter flock reported was 1000 at Longdon Marsh on January 1st. By early spring a very large pre-roosting flock was noted in the Wychbold/Upton Warren area. It was considered to contain 5000 birds on March 24th, but by May 31 st one observer estimated 20000 flying across the M5 there. Another estimate, this time on June 18th, put the figure at 8000 of which 75 % were thought to be juveniles. Smaller flocks elsewhere included 700 at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 1st, 300 at Castlemorton Common on 25th, 500 at Strensham on October 8th, 800 feeding at Throckmorton Tip on 17th and 600 roosting at Oakley on November 12th. Staffs For such a common and widespread bird few reports were received. 12 pairs at Tittesworth, three pairs at Pendeford Mill NR and a pair at Coombes Valley were the only breeding records received. Amongst the larger counts were 350 at Hockley (Tamworth) on January 29th, 150 at Awbridge on March 15th, 200 at Pendeford Mill NR on 21st, 1200 roosting in bushes on the island at Chasewater on June 12th, 500 at Hockley again on October 4th with 400 on December 18th, 1500 at Tittesworth on October 15th, 100 at Doxey on November 8th and 200 at Ashwood on 30th. At Betley Mere, a reedbed roost first used on June 24th increased to 700 on July 1 st and 31 st, 800 on August 144

13th and 1000 on September 9th. JAL comments that 'given the difficulty in counting large numbers of these birds in flight, I think it likely that the numbers roosting on most nights are actually very similar; if so this would imply that the birds are very roost-faithful during the later part of the summer'. W Mid Virtually no breeding information received, with the few observers bothering to comment all agreeing that it was common and widespread. Numbers were reported to have increased in the Aldridge area over the last few years, with flocks of 60-100 frequently noted. Large flocks at Wyken Slough during the year included 600 flying south on February 24th, 1000 west on March 17th and 500 assembling on pylons adjacent to the M6 on August 31st. There were also 400 at Hay Mills in September and up to 500 regularly feeding on Dunstall Park racecourse during the winter months. Large pre-roost flocks were noted at Harborne NR late in the year gathering in poplars.

House Sparrow Passer domeslicus Abundant, though apparently declining resident. Warks Breeding season numbers at BAD Kineton were 25% below average. Feeding flocks of up to 50 were common in the Fenny Compton/Worm- leighton area during autumn and early winter, though no larger ones could be located. Worcs Very few records received. This is a pity because it would have been interesting to know to what extent the factors causing a decline in many other seed-eaters are influencing this species. The only CBC plot on which it featured was at Alfrick, where six pairs compared favourably with five the previous year. The only flocks reported were 30 at Peopleton on July 1 st and 20 in a garden at Timberhonger in late December. Staffs Few reports. At Stonehouse Farm, Hulme 20 pairs were found nesting in aeration holes in a brickwall of a grain barn on June 6th. None were observed during monthly counts at Highgate Common. WMid Six territories on Mons Hill CBC compared to nine in 1994. Apparently numbers were much reduced at Park Lime Pits, although it was reported as still being 'fairly common' in the Harborne NR area. One observer commented that it was 'a rarity' in the Dorridge area this year, while the Valley Park census count on March 26th produced only 30 birds. An albino was seen at Fens Pools on July 18th. More detailed information is urgently needed.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus A fairly common though declining resident. Warks Appears to be commonest in central and south-eastern districts, with breeding season records from: BAD Kineton (15, slightly above average), Brailes, Chapel Ascote, Charlecote (six pairs near Thelsford), Compton Wynyates, Corley, Eathorpe, Fenny Compton, Ladbroke, Long Marston, Priors Marston, Shuckburgh, Snowford, Southam and Wills Pastures. A flock of 65 at Warton STW on July 27th consisted of 75% juveniles, indicating a thriving colony in that area. Outside the breeding season flocks were rather larger than recently, perhaps at last indicating an upturn in its fortunes. The largest were counts of 101 at Priors Marston on January 15th, 80 at Fenny Compton on November 145

13th and 50 at BAD Kineton on 29th. Flocks of 20-30 were reported from Priors Hardwick in January and from Chesterton, Corley and Wormleighton Res in December, with smaller numbers at ten other localities. Worcs The recent demise of this species is illustrated by CBC data from North Piddle, a plot which held eight territories in 1979 but none by 1983. This year it contained a solitary pair, the first since an isolated occurrence in 1985 JMcC. Remains scarce at Upton Warren, where six on July 26th was the only record of more than one bird. It was also considered very scarce in the west of the county RM, and decreased at Lower Moor RAP. It did breed however at Besford, Bittell and Dodford, with breeding season records at Bickley, Crowle, Doverdale, Haws Hill, Kyre, Long Hill, Lower Moor, Stockton on Teme, Stoke Bliss, Sutton Park, Tardebigge, Throckmorton and Wythall. The largest counts early in the year were 40 at Astley on January 15th, 50 at Larford on 22nd, 15 at Lower Moor on March 19th and 15 at Bittell on April 9th. Several parties of up to a dozen were found from mid-August onwards, but the only ones to exceed this figure were 15 at Kempsey on August 30th and 28 at Throckmorton on December 31st. Staffs The few breeding records reported comprised two pairs in nestboxes at Pendeford Mill NR, a pair at Tittesworth and two carrying food at Mucklestone in June. The best late winter flocks were of 75 at Blithfield on February 5th and 30 at Whitemoor Hay on 19th. Up to 20 were at Chillington although said to be becoming scarce in that area, while conversely it was thought to be increasing at Little Wyrley, where 20 were seen on July 24th-25th. Many more flocks were reported in autumn, with 50 at Ashwood on September 11th, 28 at Wyrley Hayes on October 25th, 40 at Whitemoor Hay on November 5th with 50 at Blithfield during the same month, and 50 at Tittesworth on December 3rd. The largest was one of 100 at Gailey on November 19th, which had increased to 150 by 25th and then remained until December 26th, feeding on the seedheads of an unharvested crop. Reported feeding in several back gardens, including on hanging peanut feeders. WMid Again breeding was only reported at Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley, though four pairs were found at Pedmore on June 2nd. Up to six were noted at two seperate sites in Aldridge (Bosty and Hobs Hole Lanes) during January-February, with 25 in Dorridge on January 3rd. In Sandwell Valley it was reported to have declined in recent years (the last large flock was in 1991), with the best count this year being 20 in January and March. The only others to be reported were two at Cinder Bank on March 29th and 'seen' near Meriden in early September.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks At BAD Kineton the summer count of 114 was 10% below average. The most reported elsewhere were 14 in song in the Wood End-Piccadilly area. A pronounced south-westerly passage was noted over Fenny Compton from October 8th-28th, with a peak rate of over 100 per hour on 9th. Feeding flocks of 50-70 were frequent in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton area from October-December, with the largest consisting of 80 on November 13th. 146

However very few were reported elsewhere, with only 20-40 at Chesterton, Coombe, Knightcote, Ladywalk and Whateley, mostly during the same period. Worcs Census results seem to indicate little change in population. Alfrick recorded a modest increase on last year from 14 to 16 pairs. In the Malvern area 139 pairs was very similar to the 1994 total, whilst there was a small decrease at North Piddle from 30 pairs last year to 28. The one locality to show a dramatic change was Upton Warren where 15 singing males was a big improvement on five in 1994. The largest late winter flocks were 130 at Nafford on January 1st, 32 near Smite on February 12th, 40 at Upton Warren on 18th, 60 at Shrawley on March 4th, 50 at Pirton on 5th, with 80 at Lower Moor and 60 at Sheriff's Lench on 19th. In autumn, after 85 were counted at Bredon Hill on October 18th, a passage movement of 270 flew west through Happy Valley on 22nd. 40 were at Sheriff's Lench on November 12th, 50 at Oddingley on December 3rd, 200 at Lickey Hills on 14th, 50 at Wadborough on 16th and 40 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 31st. Staffs Counts of breeding pairs included 28 at Belvide (up from 26 in 1994 and 15 in 1993), 67 at Coombes Valley (well down from 88 in 1994) and 64 at Tittesworth. The best flocks reported were 50 at Little Wyrley on January 21st, 200 at Sheepwalks on February 7th declining to 100 by 12th, 100 at Ridgehill Wood on November 30th and 200 at Tittesworth on December 3rd. Reports were received of birds feeding on peanuts from hanging mesh feeders. W Mid Breeding season records came from only eight sites, with territory counts at Haden Hill Park (four), Mons Hill CBC (four), Park Lime Pits (three) and Wyken Slough (eight). Available figures suggest a stable population. Apart from 20 in Meriden set-aside on February 13th and in Sandwell Valley on December 28th, all the larger flocks were in Coventry. These consisted of 20 at Wyken Slough on September 6th, 85 feeding on beech mast at Coundon Court school on November 24th, 150 in the War Memorial Park on December 7th and 50 in Stoke Park on 10th. Visible autumn migration over Wyken Slough occurred from September 27th, but was again very poor with the highest count being 25 south in ninety minutes next day.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, although in variable numbers. Average: October 10th (60) -April 18th (59) Present until fairly late in spring with the last at Westwood on April 27th, apart from an exceptionally late singing male at Belvide on May 14th. First autumn birds arrived at llmington on October 8th, with the main passage from 21st. Warks A poor late winter and spring produced only one-three at Arbury, Butlers End, Coombe, Kineton, a Nuneaton garden and Priors Marston during January- April. Autumn was rather better, with peak counts on llmington Downs of 30 on October 8th, 20 on 28th, ten on 29th and 20 again on November 4th. A few were also noted on the Fenny Compton Hills during late October, with a peak of six on 26th, while singles were at Draycote and Wellesbourne Airfield on 147

29th. One at Wormleighton Res on November 10th and two at Whateley on 19th were the only later records. Worcs Noted at 13 localities in the first quarter, but the only double figure counts were 18 at Defford on March 27th and 12 at Westwood on April 16th. As with many winter visitors this year, there was a significant arrival on the weekend of October 21st/22nd, associated with a window of calm anti-cyclonic weather. Five flew over Cofton Res and 56 west over Happy Valley on October 21st, while next day produced 12 over Bredon Hill, 20 over Island Pool, six at Kinsham and one-three at Abberton, Hanley Child and Lower Moor. Good numbers were present on several dates over the next week at Happy Valley, with a peak of 36 on November 1st. Noted at a further seven localities to the end of the year, but the only counts to reach double figures were on the Lickey Hills, where up to 40-50 were regular from December 10th-31st. Staffs Noted at 11 sites early in the year, although the only notable flocks were of 60 at Little Wyrley on March 20th and 50 by the lane between Brocton and Walton during the same month. A late male was singing at Belvide on May 14th. Autumn and early winter records came from ten sites, including 50 feeding on beechmast at Gradbach on November 19th and 20 at Chillington on December 22nd. However the best record concerned a flock of 400 feeding under beeches (presumably again on mast) near the dam at Rudyard on December 9th. W Mid Late winter and spring records, all of single birds, came from Sheepwash UP on January 28th, Clayhanger on March 13th and Wyken Slough on April 5th and 25th. Garden records were more frequent with records from south Walsall (seven dates between January 3rd-April 13th, max. three on March 16th), Four Oaks (January 5th-April 23rd, up to three on many dates), Aldridge (January 26th) and West Bromwich (April 9th-10th). The only autumn records concerned nine at Fens Pools on October 27th, with two there on November 5th and 13th; and a single at Wyken Slough on 15th.

Serin Serinus serinus Very rare vagrant (1/10). Only the fourth Regional record and the second for Staffs of this tiny finch of Mediterranean origin, the last coming from Elford in July 1992. Staffs An adult female watched at Knypersley for five minutes on March 16th GB, had originally been seen in company with two Siskins.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Abundant resident. Warks Four-five pairs at Alvecote, 29 at BAD Kineton (twice the average) and three pairs in the Wood End-Piccadilly area were the only breeding season records received. No large flocks were reported this year, the largest being 58 at Brandon on December 3rd. Smaller flocks of 20-40 were also noted at Bulkington, Corley, Ladywalk, Warton STW and Wormleighton Res. Over 40 moved south-west over Fenny Compton on October 10th with other migrants. Worcs An increase at Upton Warren where six pairs was double the number present 148

in earlier years, but populations stable at both Alfrick and North Piddle with five and four pairs on their respective CBC plots. The most significant winter flocks reported were 70 at Nattord on January 1st, 24U roosting at Hampton Lovett on 30th and 40 at the Upton Warren feeding station on February 25th. Post-breeding flocks included 35 at Peopleton on July 1st, 35 at Bittell on 19th, 100 at Croome Park and 80 between Tibberton-Oddingley on August 20th, and 100 at Lower Moor on September 3rd. Though not a true migrant, 32 flying west through Happy Valley on October 22nd was evidence that some diurnal migration can be recorded. Perhaps coincidentally, 35 were at Church Lench the same day. Staffs The few reports of breeding pairs included four at Coombes Valley (cf. two in 1994) and eight at Tittesworth. All flocks of 20 or more refer to autumn and early winter, with 30 feeding on haws at Chasewater on September 13th, a peak of 150 at Little Wyrley on 19th, up to 76 at Coombes Valley in October- November, 40 at Knighton Res on November 12th, 40 at Tittesworth on December 3rd and 90 roosting in conifers at Trentham Park on 23rd. WMid Breeding season records came from ten sites, including two territories on Mons Hill CBC and six pairs at Wyken Slough. Both these counts suggest a stable population. Flock size was generally low and included 20 roosting with Linnets at Wyken Slough on January 6th, 27 in an Aldridge garden on February 27th, 30 at Sheepwash UP on November 5th, 67 in a south Walsall garden on 24th, 70 roosting in an Aldridge churchyard on 26th, 30 at Hillwood Common Road and a total of 46 roosting at two sites in Valley Park on December 27th, and finally 30 in Sandwell Valley on 30th.

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Common resident and partial migrant. Warks Average breeding season numbers at BAD Kineton. The largest flocks were of 48 feeding in alders at Exhall in February; up to 50 at Ladywalk, 60 at Shustoke and 26 at Stockton during the autumn; and 30 at Brandon in December. Worcs Breeding season reports from 12 widespread localities. CBC data from Alfrick and Upton Warren showed three pairs at each locality, one pair fewer than 1994 in both cases. The only party reported in the early part of the year was 25 at Lower Moor on March 26th. As usual autumn produced many more flocks, the largest being 25 at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 24th, 120 at Ryall on September 30th, 22 at Abberton on October 17th, 20 at Tlbberton on 23rd and 48 at Grimley on November 4th. Staffs The only reported breeding pairs were three at both Belvide and Coombes Valley, two at Kettlebrook Lake, one at Pendeford Mill NR and 15 at Tittesworth. Flocks included 20 at Freasley on January 20th, 20 at Elford on February 18th increasing to 50 by March 4th, 60 at Croxall on April 25th, 75 at Blithfield on August 26th, 30 at Chasewater on September 3rd and 80 at Coombes Valley in the same month, 60 at Gailey on November 19th, 100 at Tittesworth on December 12th increasing to 150 on 20th, and 30 at Little Wyrley on 26th. Reports also came of birds visiting gardens to feed on flower seedheads, teasel and on hanging peanut feeders. 149

W Mid Records from 19 sites, though only six suggested breeding activity including five pairs at Wyken Slough. Amongst the larger flocks were 30 at Woodshires Green on March 7th, 24 at Coundon Court School on 9th, 30 in Dunstall Park on April 5th; and in autumn, 75 at Wyken Slough on August 16th, 60 in Sandwell Valley on 27th, 35 on Netherton Hill on September 12th, 52 on the old Walsall airfield on 17th, and up to 30 at Harborne NR and Sheepwash UP during October.

Siskin Carduelis spinus Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeder. Unusually scarce in autumn and early winter. Warks Relatively few early in the year, with the larger flocks being 20 at Ladywalk and 70 at Shustoke during January; followed by peaks of 50 at Kingsbury, 35 at Brandon, 25 at Avon Dassett and 20 at Marston in February. One in song at Brandon on May 3rd was the latest spring record. Returned to Ladywalk on the early date of August 28th, but remained very scarce during the autumn and early winter; with two flocks of 60 at Packington, and December maxima of 60 at Brandon and 50 at BAD Kineton the only reports of more than ten. Worcs Single pairs reported in the breeding season in the Wyre Forest and at Stanford on Teme. Average late winter numbers, with 150 at Upton Warren on January 7th, 100 at Witley Court on 8th, 30 at Nunnery Wood on 10th and 30 at Westwood on 26th, the largest flocks recorded. By contrast it was a very poor autumn, with most reports referring to small parties. The largest reached only 20 strong, being seen at Busk Coppice on October 5th, in the Wyre Forest on December 3rd and at Upton Warren on 23rd. Staffs Numbers were well down compared to recent winters. In the first quarter the best flocks occurred in January, with maxima of 50 at Copmere on 2nd, 35 along the R.Dove at Needwood on 15th and at Pendeford Mill NR on 19th, 45 at Elford GP on 21st and over 30 along the canal at Cheddleton on 31st. Present on Cannock Chase at Seven Springs until April 30th when song heard, and at Belvide until May 3rd. The first autumn bird was at Belgrave, Anslow on September 18th, with later maxima of 50 at Coombes Valley in November, 40 at Rudyard on December 13th and 100 at Beaudesert on 26th, and smaller totals of 20 at Dosthill, Elford GP and Loggerheads. WMid Fairly widespread in small numbers during late winter and spring, with records from 23 localities including many gardens. The largest parties occurred during January, when there were 30 at Fens Pools, 35 in Sandwell Valley, 11 in a Shirley garden and 24 in Woodshires Green gardens. The only later double figure counts were of 15 in a south Walsall garden on February 10th; and 12 flying west over Wyken Slough on April 5th, with 20 north there on 10th. Single birds were reported in June from Saltwells Wood on 7th and over Oldbury on 19th, while early autumn singles appeared at Wyken Slough on August 23rd and September 4th. Much scarcer during the final quarter, with records from just 11 sites. The largest parties consisted of 20 in Sandwell Valley on November 13th and December 6th, and 18 in Dorridge Park on December 17th. 150

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant. Warks Eight pairs bred at The Somers and three-tour at Alvecote. The summer count of 44 at BAD Kineton in May was well down from the 1993 total (86) but was reported as being about average. The only late winter flocks reported were 80 at Draycote, 45 at Exhall, 40 at Temple Pool and 35 at Radway, all in February. These were followed by a flock of 200 at BAD Kineton on March 1st indicating the arrival of summer migrants. Post-breeding flocks of 40 at Warton STW on July 27th, 50 at Whateley on August 28th and 40 at llmington Downs on September 12th preceded larger numbers in October, with 100 in set-aside at Bidford on 11th, 70 at Wishaw on 21st and 60 at Fenny Compton on 31st. Up to 100 remained at Draycote from October-December, with 40-60 at Brandon on occasions where it was said to be a good year. Elsewhere however, numbers were low during the final two months, and generally autumn flocks were well down from the record counts of 1994. Worcs The largest counts of breeding pairs came from areas with habitat containing a high proportion of gorse Ulex, for example 25 on Kempsey Common, 15 along the Malverns from North Hill-Wyche Cutting, 13 at Castlemorton Common and 12 at Old Hills Common. The species remains widespread in farmland, but at lower concentrations. Outside the breeding season, the largest late winter counts were 50 at Grimley on January 8th, 300 at Doverdale on 11th and 80 at Bittell on 16th. Autumn and early winter flocks included 70 at Abberton on September 3rd, 110 at Grimley on 23rd, 200 at Bittell and 70 at Cofton Hackett on October 21st, 140 at Kinsham on 22nd, 75 at Aston Mill on November 4th, 75 at Lower Moor on December 10th and 300 at Wadborough on 16th. Staffs Two pairs bred at Belvide and one in Coombes Valley (cf. two in 1994), with probable breeding pairs at Pendeford Mill NR (three), and in the Sher- brook Valley (three) and Seven Springs (two) areas of Cannock Chase. Some good-sized flocks were reported, with maxima of 190 at Bickford on January 8th, 200 at Croxall on April 4th, 500 at both Belvide on September 27th and Blithfield on 30th, 150 at Rudyard on October 7th and 320 at Tittesworth on December 3rd. Several other reports referred to flocks of 50 or fewer, including at Little Wyrley where the species was thought to be increasing. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from: Netherton Hill (a very encouraging 30-40), Park Lime Pits (one-two), Pelsall North Common, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (one-two) and Wyken Slough (three), and also present in the breeding season at Coombeswood. During the first quarter, flock maxima included up to 40 roosting at Wyken Slough from January 6th-16th, 40 at Park Lime Pits on 24th, over 60 in a Meriden set-aside on February 13th, 65 on wasteground at Woodshires Green on March 7th, 50 in Dunstall Park on 22nd and 75 at Bilston on April 10th. The few autumn flocks comprised 30 on wasteground at Walsgrave on September 28th, 50 in Dunstall Park during mid-October and 35 at Sheepwash UP on November 3rd. A continued decline was reported from north-east Coventry due to increased urbanisation and habitat destruction. 151

TVvite Carduelis flavirostris Frequent summer resident to the North Staffs Moors. Scarce and much declined winter visitor elsewhere in the northern half of the Region. Staffs On the northern moorlands it was first recorded in spring at Knotbury on May 14th (two) AB, and small numbers were recorded there throughout the summer. On August 3rd, an excellent flock of over 60 including ten juveniles was seen there AH. Other moorland records included three at Wolf Edge on May 28th SAR, two at Baldstones on July 2nd AH and 20 at Hazel Barrow on September 13th AH. At Tlttesworth, there was one on September 11th PAW, two on November 21st AB, two again on December 10th-11th AB, PJ, PAW, and one on 12th PAW. One was seen at Rudyard on December 8th AB. Only three records came from further south, with one at Chasewater on October 26th GE, five at Blithfield on 29th GJM, and two flying north over Belvide on November 2nd JKH.

Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea cabaret Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Frequent though rapidly declining breeder, now mainly in Staffs. Warks The only breeding season records concerned singles at Ladywalk on two dates in June-July and a singing male at Rugby Waterworks on June 30th. Only small numbers were reported during the late winter and spring, with 30 at Ladywalk and 13 in Whittleford Park during January, up to 27 at Coton in February-March and 20 in Waverley Wood during April. Again scarce in autumn, with December maxima of 45 at Brandon, 30 at BAD Kineton, up to 20 in a Nuneaton garden and 18 at Ladywalk the most notified. Worcs Apparently scarce in the breeding season, the only records coming from Coldridge Wood and the Wyre Forest. The only sizeable flock reported in late winter was 40 at Witley Court on January 14th, though numbers at Coldridge Wood reached 100 by April 15th. The first indications that the autumn would see a strong influx came with the discovery of a flock of 70 at Castlemorton Common on October 29th. There followed 20 in Chaddesley Woods on November 19th, 200 in the Wyre Forest from November 30th to the end of the year, 25 in Shrawley Wood and 21 at Timberhonger on December 9th, 25 at Lickey Hills on 10th, 20 at Callow End on 24th and up to 150 in Arley Wood from 26th-31st. Many other sites reported small numbers during the autumn. Staffs Widespread in spring and autumn, though no breeding and very few summer birds reported. Outside the breeding season the largest flock early in the year was only 20 at Cheddleton on January 31st. More were seen towards the end of the year, with 50 in Oldacre Valley (Cannock Chase) on October 21st, 30 at Wetley Moor on November 28th, 50 at Tittesworth from 29th-December 10th, 30 at Highgate Common on December 14th, 100 at Beaudesert on 26th and at least 75 of this race at Hanchurch on 28th. WMid Two pairs summered at Woodshires Green with at least one pair raising young, while three pairs attempted to breed at Wyken Slough but deserted in mid-May possibly due to the activity of bird-nesters. Also in north Coventry, a pair (the male in song) were noted in suburban Little Heath on July 31st. Elsewhere during the breeding season, there were up to six in Sandwell 152

Valley throughout April, with two noted during early May in suitable breeding habitat. Birds were present during the summer again at Mens Hill, while singles were noted at Netherton Hill on May 2nd and in Valley Park on June 11th. Outside the breeding season records came from 21 localities, with first quarter maxima of 35 in Sandwell Valley and 25 at Sheepwash UP in January, up to 18 at Park Lime Pits from late January-March, 13 at Mushroom Green Marsh on March 19th and 15 at Wyken Slough on 22nd, ten at Westboume Road Leisure Gardens on 26th and 20 in Valley Park on April 25th. The few flocks noted in autumn and early winter peaked in December, when maxima of 30 in Dorridge Park, 50 in Sandwell Valley and 15 at Sheepwash UP were logged.

Mealy Redpoll C. f. flammea Rare and erratic winter visitor (7/10). More records than ever before. Worcs Three in the Wyre Forest on November 30th PT, and five in the same redpoll flock on December 3rd SMW, signalled the start of an exciting invasion of this sub-species into the county, the full extent of which would not become apparent until the early months of 1996. The next to be found were six at Arley Wood on December 26th SMW, with 35 there next day which remained to at least the turn of the year SMW et al. Staffs One at Westport on February 14th AK, DK, were followed by a party of ten at Chasewater on 21st MY. The large national influx in November saw flocks arriving in the county by early December, though the larger flocks were often very mobile and exact counts proved to be very difficult to ascertain. The first were six at Rudyard on December 8th, with 40 there by 17th AB. Six were also seen at Tittesworth on 10th AB, NC, PAW, with two there on 11th and one on 20th PAW. A flock of 40 redpolls at Swallow Moss on 12th were thought to consist mostly of this race AB. At Hanchurch, one on 26th, at least 30 out of a flock of about 200 redpolls on 27th-28th WJL, JPM, and two on 29th WJL, were of this race. One was seen at Blithfield on 23rd MY, and flocks of 50 were at Newcastle on 24th WJL and Chasewater on 27th GE. WMid Three at Sheepwash UP on December 16th, with one or two in the redpoll flock there on 26th AGW, DW.

Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni Very rare vagrant (0/10). A forerunner of things to come in 1996, this was the first Regional record. Staffs At least one male and probably two were seen in the mixed redpoll flock at Hanchurch on December 27th JPM. For a full account see Short Notes.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent though variable eruptive visitor. Scarce, possibly annual, breeder. Worcs After about eight were found in Coldridge Wood on February 18th, the flock there reached 13 on March 5th. Meanwhile, three in the Wyre Forest at Dowles Brook on February 18th increased to 15 by March 2nd. By this time all the Wyre Forest records were coming from the area around Lodge Hill 153

Farm, where numbers built up to at least 32 by April 24th, but curiously none were reported after ten on 30th. Autumn was very poor, the only records concerning five flying west through Happy Valley on October 22nd and a pair at Lickey Hills on December 23rd. Staffs Virtually all records came from Cannock Chase. At least 40 were seen in the Horse Pastures Pool area on February 20th, with 15 in the area above Seven Springs on March 21st, later visiting the garden at Springslade. Up to five continued to visit the Seven Springs car park area during April and early May; amongst these was a very tame male which landed on telescopes, people's heads and shoulders and at one point seemed very interested in a young boy's red jumper! A female at Brocton NR in early July was the only later record. Away from the Chase the only record concerned a bird flying over Rudyard on January 30th. W Mid A male flew over Fens Pools calling on July 28th.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common, though perhaps declining resident. Warks Nine at BAD Kineton on May 21st was only half the average count there. Recorded in the breeding season at only six further sites, including four pairs in Kingsbury Wood and two-three pairs at Ladywalk (where it was thought to have increased). The largest party reported was only ten at Knightcote on December 3rd. Worcs Reported from 16 localities from throughout the county. Breeding status stable at Upton Warren where four pairs present, but considered to have declined in the Bredon Hill area. The only sizable party reported was 20 at Happy Valley on October 15th. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Belvide (two), Coombes Valley (five, as in 1994), Gun Hill (two), Highgate Common (two), and Tittesworth (four). At Coombes Valley, 50 were counted during December; while elsewhere the larger parties included 12 at Westport, ten at Belvide, eight at Lower Manifold and seven at Highgate Common, all during January; with eight at Wetley Moor on September 15th. WMid Breeding pairs reported from: Allesley (two), Brownshill Green, Dunstall Park/Valley Park (several), Harborne NR (several), Keresley, Longford, Mons Hill CBC (three), Tile Hill Wood, Whitley, Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough (five), with probable breeding at Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley and Westboume Road Leisure Gardens. Breeding season records seem to indicate that this is still a fairly common breeding bird in the outer suburbs of Coventry. The largest flock was again at Wyken Slough, which peaked at 20 on September 22nd. Other good counts included eight at Park Lime Pits on April 4th, 26 along the length of Valley Park on the November 26th census and ten in Sandwell Valley on December 7th.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Uncommon and declining resident. Warks A group of five or six heard in a very dense section of Wellesboume Wood on July 11th JJB, were thought to be a family party. This was the first evidence 154

of possible breeding in the county since a juvenile was ringed at Compton Vemey. just 3km east, in 1976. A more typical record involved a single at Corley on November 4th. Worcs Noted irregularly at Jubilee Gardens, Bewdley from January 3rd-April 29th. Generally records involved two-eight birds but numbers twice exceeded double figures, with 15 on January 25th and 11 on March 2nd. Elsewhere in Bewdley, 22 at Kateshill on January 20th involved the same flock. No reports from any other part of the county. Staffs Only two reports received. A party of five were feeding on a weedy bank at the disused Little Onn airfield on March 24th, and a pair visited a bird table at Springslade, Cannock Chase on May 16th.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Staffs A single bird was found on the North Staffs Moors by the pool north of the Mermaid Inn on November 5th ESC, NC, AH.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common though declining resident. Warks A May count of 86 at BAD Kineton was about average. The only breeding territory counts were of four-five at Alvecote, three in the Bidford-Marlcliff area and two at The Somers; declines from six, five and five respectively in 1994, the last being due to changes in landuse. There were late winter flocks of 60 at Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) on January 14th, 30 at Draycote on February 19th and 50 at Radway on March 15th. Few autumn or early winter flocks were reported, although 100 at Fenny Compton on November 13th and 120 in maize stubble at Chesterton on December 9th were notable. Otherwise, 30 at Knightcote on December 3rd was the next best. Worcs Census work reveals some worrying trends, with particular problems on arable farmland. A CBC plot at North Piddle contained four pairs, compared to 20 in 1979 JMcC. Declines were also noted in the Vale of Evesham, and in the Malvern area where 19 pairs was a reduction from 25 in 1994. A CBC on a pasture farm at Alfrick revealed a more stable situation, four pairs there were similar to previous years. 12 pairs were present around Timberhonger, with four located in Little Comberton parish. Several records of flocks of up to 20 were reported in late winter, with larger concentrations of 41 at Westwood on January 22nd, 50 at Grimley on 28th, 170 at Sheriff's Lench on February 16th and 40 at Church Lench on March 19th. The largest autumn counts were 45 on Bredon Hill on October 22nd, 50 at Upton Warren on November 1st, 30 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 5th and finally, 60 at Sheriff's Lench on 12th. Staffs Reports came from throughout the county, though the only territory counts came from Belvide (five, cf. three in 1994) and Coombes Valley (four, as last year). Again flock sizes were generally small, the largest being 37 at Little Wyrley and 50 at Mucklestone on January 22nd, 34 at Butterton on April 16th, 19 at Coombes Valley in May, 20 near Chartley on November 25th, 25 at Belvide on December 5th and 70 at Blithfield on 10th and 27th. W Mid Seemingly still declining in the more built-up parts of the county. Confirmed 155

breeding was confined to Sandwell Valley (where numbers apparently stable), with probable records from Marston Green recreation ground and Park Lime Pits (around three pairs). After its absence from Wyken Slough last year, a pair were present again in March-April with a singing male on July 14th, but no territory was established. The only other breeding season records came from Four Oaks, while sadly the species was reported absent in Valley Park as a breeding bird for the first time, due to habitat change. A few small late winter flocks were noted, with maxima of 32 on pasture at Rushall Manor (near Park Lime Pits) on January 7th, seven at Fens Pools on February 8th, six in a Four Oaks garden on 11th, 15 in Valley Park on 16th, 30 in Sandwell Valley on 19th, 11 at Barr Common on 28th and 18 in Dunstall Park on March 29th. Later in the year there were just eight in Aldridge on September 29th and a peak of 25 in Sandwell Valley on December 17th. One or two were also noted at Perry Hall playing fields, Sheepwash UP and at Wergs during the same periods, while four at the old Walsall airfield on October 9th and one at Harborne NR on December 5th were apparently first records for these localities.

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla Very rare vagrant (2/10). The fourth Regional record, closely following the third at Defford, Worcs in May 1994.

Little Bunting (Dave Nurney)

Staffs One closely watched at Belvide on April 21 st SN et al., spent most of its time flycatching from the boundary hedge. First located by call, a hard metallic 'tick', which was heard several times and resembled Song Thrush. Size of Redpoll, with small grey bill. Most distinctive feature was rich chestnut ear coverts, neatly surrounded by a black line, and pale eye rings. Head showed pale central crown stripe and bold creamy supercilum which kinked upwards towards greyish hind neck. Buff-coloured back and wings with heavy dark streaking, the latter sporting two fairly distinct wing bars. Fine black streaking on breast and flanks, with clean white belly. 156

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though perhaps declining resident. Warks Up to a dozen were present ail year at Brandon, while the summer count uf 21 at BAD Kineton was 40% above average. There were six pairs at both Alvecote and Coton, five along the R.Avon from Bidford-Marlcliff, and two at The Somers and in oilseed rape at both Exhall and Seckington. Breeding was also proved at Fenny Compton, Warton STW, Whatcote and Wolston SF, while it was said to have had an average year at Ladywalk. Outside the breeding season flock size was again low, with 16 at Draycote on April 22nd and 20 at both Chesterton and Knightcote on December 9th, the best counts. Parties of around ten were also reported from Eathorpe, Ladywalk, Light- home, Napton Holt and Priors Hardwick. Worcs Singing males noted at: Abberton, Bishampton Vale Pool, Castlemorton Common, Eckington, Hewell Park, Ipsley Alders, Kinsham, Rous Lench (six), Strensham (six), Tibberton and Upton Warren, where the population remains fairly stable at 20 pairs. This contrasts markedly with a CBC plot at North Piddle where up to seven pairs were breeding in the early 1980's, but none have been present since 1990. The largest parties outside the breeding season were 16 at Upton Warren on March 5th and 37 at Lower Moor on December 31st. Staffs Widespread reports from throughout the county. Breeding birds noted at Belvide, Blithfield, Highgate Common, Park Hall CP, Sherbrook Valley and at Tlttesworth, where 34 pairs bred. At Betley Mere CES, nine adults and one juvenile were trapped during standardised sessions. This was the lowest total in the ten years of the survey and represents a continued decline from the peak years of 1990-91, when the figures were 27 adults to nine juveniles and 25 adults to 12 juveniles respectively. W Mid Breeding season territories reported from: Bartley (at least two), Bradnock's Marsh (five, cf. six in 1994, nine in 1993), Marston Green (one), Meriden GP (several), Netherton Hill (one), Park Lime Pits (five), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (three-four, a decline on previous years), Valley Park (three- four) and Wyken Slough (nine, cf. six in 1994). A noticeable increase at the latter site was due to new territories being set up in dry grassland and scrub vacated by Yellowhammers in 1993. In contrast there was no breeding at Fens Pools this year. Parties of 15 at Wyken Slough on September 20th and 35 in Sandwell Valley on December 29th were by far the largest reported, while among the few remaining records, up to eight visited a south Walsall garden from December 16th-31st.

Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra Fairly common resident. Has recently declined. Warks Breeding season territories noted at: Charlecote (three), llmington (two), Marlcliff, Milcote, Newton Regis, Poolfields (three), Priors Marston, Radway, Seckington (two), Shotteswell, Wasperton and Weltesbourne. One at BAD Kineton on May 21st was unusual there. The largest flocks in the first quarter were 39 in the traditional roost at Eathorpe on February 26th and 15 at Wiggins Hill on April 2nd. Numbers were higher towards the end of the year, with counts 157

of 43 on November 12th and 35 on December 9th at Chesterton, and a peak of 75 in the Eathorpe roost on December 29th (the largest there for some years). Smaller flocks included 12 at Wishaw on October 22nd, 22 near Wormleighton Res on November 3rd and 11 near Bidford-on-Avon on 18th. Worcs Breeding season territories at: Ashmoor Common (two), Aston Mill, Bredon Hill, Broome, Clifton-on-Severn, Crowle Green, Doverdale (two), Grimley, Harvington, Holy Cross, Holt Heath, Kempsey (three), Larford, Little Comber- ton (two), Lower Moor, Naunton Beauchamp, Peopleton (three), Ripple (three), Ryall, Summerfield, Throckmorton (four), Torton (three) and Upton Warren. A mid-summer record from Bittell was particularly interesting as the site has not hosted the species for many years, and similarly one in August at Bishampton Vale Pool was only the second record for the site. The largest late winter flocks reported were 20 at Larford on February 2nd and 35 at Sheriff's Lench on 16th. Autumn maxima included 29 at Naunton Beauchamp on October 10th, 45 at Saxons Lode on 29th and 41 at Throckmorton on December 31st. Staffs Fewer reports of territory-holding males than usual, with up to ten at White- moor Hay (cf. 22 there in 1993), three at Mucklestone, and just singles at Seisdon, in the Shenstone area, Smestow Gate, Trysull and Weeford. Apart from a flock of 70 feeding with Pied Wagtails, Chaffinches and Yellow- hammers in a root field at Mucklestone on January 22nd, and a peak of 28 at Blithfield on November 19th, few were seen outside the breeding season. A single at Mitton on January 8th, a peak of six at Pendeford Mill NR on April 6th and two at Stowe by Chartley during November, were the only others reported. W Mid Singing males reported from: Hillwood Common Road, Sutton (up to three in area), Hobs Hole Lane, Walsall (at least two), Peddimore/Wiggins Hill Lane, Wishaw (four-six) and Pedmore, Stourbridge (four birds on June 19th). One at Park Lime Pits on July 31 st was only the second record for the locality.

Exotica The sequence followed and the nomenclature used in this section is generally that advocated by Howard and Moore (1991: A Complete Checklist of the Birds of the World). Species in category D of the BOURC British and Irish list are indicated: (D1, possible vagrants) or (D4, feral breeding species, not yet fully established).

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia and (introduced) New Zealand. Worcs One at Worcester on January 3rd Staffs Two at Chasewater on October 10th.

Swan Goose Anser cygnoides Steppe lakes and marshes in China, now rare. The domesticated form ('Chinese Goose') is common in captivity. W Mid Two in Handsworth Park on September 28th and one at Walsall Arboretum on November 11th were presumably of domesticated stock. 158

Bar-headed Goose Anser indica (D4) Breeds on high Plateaux in central and southern Asia, wintering mainly in northern India. Warks One with Canada Geese at Ragley Park on October 1 st. Worcs Singles at Mill Pond, Malvern from the end of January to mid-March and again on September 22nd, at Beckford from April 23rd-June 3rd and at Bittell on June 20th. W Mid One at Fens Pools on June 14th.

Paradise Shelduck Tadoma variegata Coastal and inland waters in New Zealand. Staffs A party of ten at Blithfield on July 20th (later appearing 100km to the north at Wintersett Res, West Yorkshire on 22nd), with one there on October 5th.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata (D4) Domesticated. Wild birds inhabit forested swamplands in Central and South America. All records of free-flying birds are required in order to assess the true status. In some other counties feral breeding is now regular; do we have any breeding colonies within our Region? W Mid A full-winged male in 'wild plumage' was at Wyken Slough from July 3rd to the end of the year.

Ringed Teal Callonetta leucophrys Forest pools in southern South America. Staffs The long-staying female was present at Chasewater throughout the year, apart from July 16th-August 23rd when it apparently visited Belvide.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa (D4) Forested wetlands in North America. Warks The male at Coombe from 1994 remained until at least the end of April.

Speckled Teal Anas flavirostris Lakes and marshes in South America. Worcs One at Mill Pond, Malvern on September 22nd.

White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis Mainly coastal wetlands in the West Indies, parts of South America and the Galapagos Islands. Warks One at Dosthill on June 15th.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Interior of Australia. Warks One flew over Lillington on November 4th. Worcs One at Bittell on August 23rd. W Mid Singles were flying around Sheepwash UP on August 3rd and Wyken Slough on 23rd. One in Handsworth Park on October 27th had apparently been at large since July/August, and was still present just before Christmas. 159

Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus Domesticated forms of a species widespread in Australia. Worcs One at Broadway on July 20th

Senegal Parrot Poicephalus senegalus Open forest and savannah in West Africa. W Mid One regularly visited a feeder in an Aldridge garden from April-December but evaded all attempts at recapture.

Parakeet sp. Worcs A small green parakeet with red and yellow around its face was seen briefly at Tlbberton on November 25th.

Red Bishop Euplectes orix A widespread weaver of East and Central Africa inhabiting tall grasslands and agriculture. Worcs A male at Lower Moor on October 29th

Short Notes The Great Snipe in Sandwell Valley Tuesday August 22nd again loomed hot and sunny and with little in the way of migrants around Forge Mill Lake I decided to continue with some management work on the island and lake shoreline - removing encroaching vegetation for the benefit of waders! I had previously enquired at the nature centre if anyone was interested in lending a hand but was met with total apathy - no-one fancied working in such stifling conditions. I started to remove vegetation from the shoreline, but was soon reduced to picking up the odd coke can and other assorted debris, when after half an hour or so a dark shape flew less than 10m from where I was working. The bird promptly disappeared into dense cover but not before showing an extensive white tail. Snipe I thought to myself but that white tail - Great Snipe? No can't be. Was it even a Snipe? The heat really had got to me. It was by now 12.15pm and I was sauntering back to the RSPB centre whereupon I announced half-joking, 'there's a Great snipe down there'. Nobody seemed particularly impressed; wind-ups are a regular occurrence in the Valley! However after pulling on wellies I ventured back to the lake with Pete Mansell and headed in the general direc- tion of the last sighting, but before we reached the spot a bird took flight. It was definitely a Snipe of some description and again the stunning white tail was very apparent, as was a prominent white wing panel and a Woodcock-like flight. Its flight was quite direct with none of the erratic zig-zagging of Common Snipe, nor was it heard to call. It landed some 20-30m away on the island in thick vegetation - a potential problem if it chose to stay there. My mind was now racing, I'd never seen a Great Snipe but I was aware of several diagnostic features and from what I'd seen I was pretty sure this was indeed that species. 160

Our pace back up to the centre now quickened and there I managed to consult a copy of 'Shorebirds'. Things indeed looked good, but again I think people thought I was having them on as I was still met with apathy. So after waiting for Ray Wilson, the assistant warden, to finish his cup of tea we headed back down to the lake complete with 'scope. Ray and I positioned ourselves on the bankside whilst Pete Mansell, having donned waders, waded out to the island. On reaching it the bird suddenly took off and flew back towards its original spot, dropping almost vertically onto the grassy bank where it fanned its tail exposing brilliant white corners; and fortunately it stayed out of cover long enough to show extensively barred underparts. It did appear rather bulky but when it stretched its neck upwards it looked remarkably like Common Snipe - this was commented upon by one observer who thought it might be an aberrant bird. What a dilemma! I thought it was a Great Snipe, but with no Common Snipe present for direct comparison and with no previous experience of the species, an element of doubt was sown in my mind which left me totally confused. A delicate situation now ensued knowing that news of this bird would bring hundreds of observers onto the site, many travelling long distances, so identification had to be 100%. By now Bernard Smith had arrived and he'd seen Great Snipe before, albeit in flight! So another controlled flush produced a 'fly past" with a call to boot (a low grunt). The bird flew back onto the island and out of sight. Bernard said he was '60% sure', while the call convinced me even more so, but again it's often a question of conviction and confidence on a so-called difficult species. By now it was 3.30pm and several more observers had arrived, during which time the bird had showed briefly one more time. At this point I had to leave to go to work but was more or less convinced that I'd found a Great Snipe. Ray Wilson began to put the news out, including 'phoning Steve Whitehouse of Birdline Midlands, who duly arrived and confirmed the identification. The telephone hotlines and pager networks were informed around 5.30pm and by dusk around 200 birders had managed to get there and see the bird, which performed admirably often feeding out in the open. The bird was not present the following day, although it was claimed by a handful of people in the morning. However it should be noted that it had a damaged leg. One thing's for sure, should I stumble across another Great Snipe I'll know it - I think - and I'll have the confidence to say so! I dread to think what would have happened if I hadn't been so persistent or if I hadn't relocated the bird. Pete Hackett

Dartford Warbler at Lickey Hills - the first modern record. At about 14.30hrs on Saturday December 9th, Mike Honeyman had good views of a Sylvia warbler on the northern side of Bilberry Hill within the Lickey Hills Country Park. He watched the bird, which was unfamiliar to him, for about fifteen minutes feeding close to ground level in Heather Calluna vulgaris and Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus before flying up into a Holly Ilex aquifolium tree, after which it was lost to view. Later that evening after consulting field guides, Mike concluded that the bird may have been a Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans and so telephoned Birdline Midlands with the 161

Dartford Warbler (Phil Jones)

news. Mike's verbal description sounded interesting and so the next morning Francis and Gavin Peplow and SMW met up with Mike at the site at about 08.50hrs. There had been an overnight frost and the steep western slopes of the ridge were still in deep shade, and so after a fruitless search for the warbler it was decided to check the sunny eastern slopes some 200m to the south. Within minutes the bird was located, initially on call, amongst thick Bracken Pteridium aquilinum and Bilberry. It was then identified as a first-winter Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata, and shortly afterwards gave good views in heather near the top of the ridge. A rather small oval-bodied, small headed and short-winged but long-tailed Sylvia warbler. Medium brownish-grey head and mantle, with ear-coverts greyer than rest of head. Dark pupils with narrow dark orange orbital ring. Rather plain grey-brown inner wings, while outer-wings were darker grey with warm brown-edged tertials. Uppertail quite dark grey with slim whitish fringes in outer feathers. Pale creamy throat but with rufous flecking giving an almost stippled effect at sides. Dull orangey-brown upper breast extending onto flanks and undertail coverts but turning to silver-white on lower breast and belly. Hom-grey bill with paler base and yellowish-orange legs and feet. Call a quiet tschirr'. In flight its overall dark appearance, short whirring flight and long rudder-like tail were most distinctive. The bird remained in the same area until the end of the year during which time it was seen by numerous observers. It usually crept about low in thick vegetation feeding on heather seeds and Bilberry fruits, but occasionally would fly up into a small Silver Birch Betula pendula or Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris for short periods with its tail cocked up, giving excellent views. This bird was the first confirmed record in the Region since October 10th-11th 1914 when one was found on Yamingale Common in Warks, although a 'probable' was seen near Rugeley on March 22nd 1915. Previously it seems to have been a sporadic resident during the nineteenth century when suitable heathland and extensive gorse brakes were much more widespread, with breeding records from Cannock Chase and sightings in several other districts including Broadway and Tenbury Wells in Worcs; 162

however most of these are rather vague and lack dates. Nothing more was seen of the bird until 1987, when a singing male held territory along Jubilee Drive on the Here- fordshire side of the Malvern Hills from May 24th-June 1 st. A bird was rumoured to have been seen on Cannock Chase in 1994, whilst in 1995 a 'probable' was heard calling in dense gorse on a hillside in south-east Warks on October 22nd but could not be confirmed. Thus it seems likely that after record breeding seasons in 1994-5, more birds will appear in the near future as post-breeding dispersal leads juveniles to move away and seek out new breeding habitat. Observers should search for it in places such as Cannock Chase, the Malvern Hills, Sutton Park and the Worcs commons where suitable gorse or heather habitat still exists. Steve Whitehouse

Arctic Redpoll at Hanchurch - an addition to the Regional list. On December 26th, accompanied by Bill Low, I saw at least one Mealy Redpoll (Carduelis flammea flammea) with a flock of about 15 redpolls at Hanchurch, Staffs. I returned in freezing conditions on 27th and with Graham Etherington and Bill Low found a much larger flock containing Mealies, in larches (Larix). Some came down to drink at puddles where we had broken the ice but the whole flock was very jumpy. Perhaps 200 or more redpolls were present but estimating numbers was difficult. Most of those seen well were Mealies though this was perhaps as few as 30 individuals, while few definite Lesser Redpolls (C. f. cabaret) were seen. On at least two occasions we saw birds which looked promising for Arctic Redpoll (C. homemanni) but views were too poor to be certain. Eventually part of the flock flew off and perched in the tops of birches (Betula) about 200m away. GJE and myself followed and noticed three redpolls in a low tree by a small pool. The first bird I looked at was facing me at perhaps 30m range. It was very pale and the undertail coverts were clearly visible ending in a blunt point part way down the tail. These were pure white and unstreaked to the tips. I relayed this information to GJE who was meanwhile watching another pale redpoll. The bird dropped down to feed in short grass on the far side of the pond. I had good 'scope views in short grass with only the legs, feet and 'trousers' hidden. I again checked out the undertail coverts which were pure white and completely unmarked - at this range I would have undoubtedly been able to see even small fine streaking. I then concentrated on other features including the bill, face markings, wing-bar, mantle and underparts. Meanwhile Bill Low was approaching but unfortunately all three birds flew back to the larches as he did so, 'my' bird showing a white rump. The impression was of a large redpoll though there were no direct comparisons and it did not look much bigger (il at all) than some of the larger Mealies. Overall it was certainly pale with greyish tones, whitish below with restricted streaking, pale headed and with broad white wing-bars and an obvious white rump (seen only in flight). The underparls were white with a slight pale pink tinge to the centre of Ihe breast (indicating male, perhaps and adult, according to Svensson). The undertail coverts were pure white with no streaking including the longest central feathers. Streaking was confined to a series of separate grey smudges at Ihe breast sides which formed a couple of broken lines down each side with a few isolated markings more centrally. The streaking was on a white background and did not extend to the rear flanks or to the middle of the breast. On Mealies the streaking, though variable, tended to be more extensive in solid lines, and blacker with the background often grey toned. 163

The head was pale overall with a striking patch of bright red on the forecrown. Behind this was fine grey streaking which continued as smaller paler smudges on the nape. A whitish forehead joined a whitish area over the eye and a broken white eye-ring. The chin and lores were sharply contrasting black in a clear cut patch. The yellow bill stood out well from this. The dark culmen looked straight and the bill rather fine and was certainly shorter than on some of the Mealies seen earlier - some of which had almost Goldfinch-like bills. The mantle was pale overall with grey tones and streaked darker. The overall effect was evenly pale; paler lhan most or all Mealies, many of which had distinct pale tramlines down the middle of the back and darker areas on either side. The main wing-bar on Ihe greater covert tips was a striking feature - broad and white, wldesl on the Inners, but wide throughout its length. It was noticeably broader than all Mealies seen lhal day or subsequently. The rest of the wing was not noted in detail.,as it had flown off before I could consciously check the lertial pattern and other features. The rump was only seen poorly in flight and looked white but the exact pattern could not be seen. The general appearance of this bird was thus consistent with Arctic Redpoll (large and pale with a broad white wing-bar, mainly white underparts with rather light streaking confined to the breast sides, pale head, bright red on the forecrown, neat black area at the base of the smallish bill) and none of the features seen suggest Mealy rather than Arctic. The rump is obviously an important feature that was not seen very well. This is a notoriously difficult species to identify with certainty and is best distinguished by a combination of as many features as possible. Nonetheless it seems that the pure white unstreaked longest undertail coverts are diagnostic of Arctic. Svensson mentions that in very rare exceptions Mealies can have narrow dark streaks (as narrow as 2mm) on the longest undertail coverts. GJE's bird was similar in appearance but the crucial undertail coverts were not seen well enough to clinch the identification. Several observers gathered the next day and though we found the big redpoll flock briefly we could not pin it down at all. On 29th I again visited the site and this time saw 2 Mealies out of 8 redpolls seen well in a total of about 15 birds. The record has been accepted by BBRC and represents the first record for Stafford- shire and the club's area, though at least one earlier claim is still under consideration. 1995/96 was a record winter for Arctic Redpolls in Britain, with 155 records accepted by BBRC up to December 31st 1995 and the final total likely to be several hundred. The previous best year was 1991 with 63. Many of the Arctics were mixed with flocks of Mealies which were also recorded in unprecedented numbers. Subsequently several more Arctics were found in the Region including five birds at Westport Lake in February-March 1996.

References: Czaplak, D. (1995) Identifying Common and Hoary Redpolls in Winter. Birding XXVII:446—457 Lansdown, P., Riddiford, N. and Knox, A. (1991) Identification of Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni exilipes. Brit. Birds 48:41-56 Millington, R. (1996) Identification Forum: Arctic Redpolls Revisited. Birding World 9:65-69 Rogers, M. et.al. (1996) Report on Rare Birds in Great Britain in 1995. Brit. Birds 89:481-531 Stoddard, A. (1991) Identification Forum: Arctic Redpoll. Birding World 4:18-23 Svensson, L. (1992) Identification Guide to European Passerines, 4th Ed. Stockholm John Martin 164

Ringing in 1995 Ringing totals received from individual ringers and major groups within the Region show a total of only 7160 birds ringed during 1995. Five groups accounted for 75% of the total with tits giving the highest percentage at 31% followed by finches 18%, warblers 13%, hirundines 11% and thrushes with a mere 3%. Many long distance movements were recorded, the most notable being included in the section of recoveries. The 1995 report shows a remarkable Mute Swan movement; an Irish bird moving from Dublin to Chasewater, and there has been much speculation as to the route taken which brought the bird into the West Midlands. The usefulness of neck collars on Bewick Swans is well illustrated by the two birds ringed on the Lower Petchora Delta in August 1992. They were both in Norfolk on November 6th 1994 and together at Wexford on November 24th 1994. Then on March 4th 1995 they both appeared in the Region but on different waters: Westport Lake and Blithfield. This documentation of movement is remarkable in itself but the most staggering thing was yet to come, the Blithfield bird was sighted next day in Germanyl Several long distance Canada Goose movements are recorded but it is the ages of some of these birds that is of interest. The bird from Berrington Hall (Worcs) was 15.9 years of age when it was shot whereas the 13 year old Branston bird is still going strong. Every year Black-headed Gulls continue to give good long distance movements and again 1995 is no exception with gulls from Finland, Lithuania and Sweden moving well over 1000km into the West Midlands, while birds ringed in the Region travelled to Denmark. The year also produced two Lesser Black-backed Gull movements to the Netherlands. Hirundine ringing has been the best for many years at Comets End GP, Meriden, with 1995 proving the most productive since 1983. The oldest bird caught at this site in 1995 was one originally ringed in 1990. A further two birds caught were first ringed in 1991 and of these one had also been caught in 1992 and 1994. Birds from this colony, together with many of the warblers illustrate how many of our migrants travel to and from Icklesham on the south coast. During one of the netting sessions at Cornets End an albino Sand Martin was seen flying in the area; it came out of a hole near one of the nets but was not caught. The Stonechat record is the very first for the West Midland Bird Club data bank. The Marsh Warbler record is a good example of site fidelity but in this case the bird appears to be in doubt as to its identity and was recorded paired to a Reed Warbler! Amongst the other warbler records is the Reed Warbler 5.8 years old and a Chiffchaff, a bird weighing only about 7 grams, making an enormous journey of over 4000km from Senegal to Worcs. Species of which large numbers of birds were caught included the Siskin and Long- tailed Tit. One ringer alone caught over 400 Siskins in his garden during 1995 but unfortunately his was not the bird that flew 1522 km to Russia. During 1995 ringers in the West Midlands caught more Long-tailed Tits than ever before - a staggering 185, and this is undoubtedly due to their unusual and recently acquired habit of coming to nut bags to feed in the winter. 165

The long term studies of Mute Swans, Grey Herons, Wigeon and Common Terns continue and 1995 produced a great deal of useful information to add to their data banks. Long term studies are recognised as being the most valuable and long may these four studies continue uninterrupted. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the secretaries of the Brandon, Mercian and Wychavon ringing groups, Dr C.D.T.Minton and Messers P.Bache, J.Cameron, D.Clifton, C.Griffiths, P.lreland, J.A.Lawrence, W.J.Low, J.R.Mountford and the Secretary of the Severn Estuary Gull Group, for sending in the records on which this report is based. A E Coleman Ringing Secretary

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 1995 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100km (62.14 miles) are included. Treat- ment of movements of less than 100km depends on the species involved. Key: Age ai Ringing: Sex: Pull Pullus (nestling) M . Male Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) F Female 1Y Bird in its first year Manner of Recovery: 2Y Bird in its second year v Caught and released with ring + Ad Adult (at least one year old) Shot or killed Fg Full grown (age uncertain) x Found dead or dying w Ring read in the field ? Manner of recovery unknown

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement Mute Swan Z75558 2Y 31/03/92 Bewdley (Worcs) WRG w 18/07/94 Caernarfon (Gwynedd) 157km

U1718 Pull 22/09/92 Tallaght, Dublin, Rep. of Ireland PC w 22/10/95 Chasewater (Staffs) 302km

Bewick's Swan Z76087 Ad 05/08/92 Lower Pechora Delta, Russia w 27/10/92 Kreis Hagenow, Germany w 08/11/92 Groningen, Netherlands w 05/12/92 Dude Bildtdijk, Friesland, Netherlands w 12/02/93 Kampen, Netherlands w 05/03/93 Groningen, Netherlands w 13/03/93 Kreis Ludwigslust, Germany w 07/07/93 Lower Pechora Delta, Russia w 25/11/93 Flevoland, Netherlands w 17/04/94 Laane Province, Estonia 166

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Moveme

w 06/11/94 Welney (Norfolk) w 24/11/94 Killag, Wexford, Rep. of Ireland w 04/03/95 Blithfield (Staffs) AJB w 05/03/95 Kreis Ludwigslust, Germany w 24/03/95 Kreis Ludwigslust, Germany

V4315 Ad M 15/08/92 Lower Pechora Delta, Russia w 29/11/92 Creil, Noordoostpolder, Netherlands w 06/11/94 Welney (Norfolk) w 24/11/94 Killag, Wexford, Rep. of Ireland w 04/03/95 Westport Lake (Staffs) WJL

Canada Goose L00705 Pull 06/07/78 Berrington Hall (Worcs) CDTM X 15/05/94 Ashby St Ledgers (Northants) 107km

5133037 1Y 18/07/86 Foulness (Essex) MAA w 09/08/95 Branston (Staffs) 225km

5111759 Fg 26/06/82 Branston (Staffs) MRG w 09/08/95 Branston (Staffs) 2km

5178542 . 01/07/95 Beauly Firth, Inverness w 31/08/95 Himley Hall (Staffs) CSL

Black-headed Gull EH60371 Ad 17/02/79 Madeley Heath (Worcs) PI X 15/10/91 Falster, Lolland, Denmark

ST106860 Pull 25/06/92 Kalvia, Vassa, Finland w 08/12/92 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1902km

395155 Pull 07/06/92 Kalsiadorys, Lithuania X 31/03/93 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1767km

EH70739 Ad 19/12/81 Madeley Heath (Worcs) PI X 02/12/94 Shrewsbury (Salop) 56km

EK56070 1Y 04/01/86 Majors Green (Worcs) PI V 07/01/95 Wood Green Res (Gl. London) 49km

ST153220 Pull 03/06/94 Hyvinkaa, Uusimaa. Finland w 19/02/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1849km

403314 Pull 11/4/94 Ftartal, Kaunas, Lithuania w 19/02/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1711km

ST138450 Pull 24/06/94 Hollola, Hame, Finland w 25/02/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1893km

6152024 Pull 16/06/94 Bromolla, Kristianslad, Sweden w 26/02/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1126km

EP84866 Ad 22/12/90 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG w 25/03/95 Sortedamsso Is, Copenhagen, Denmark 167

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Dale Place Movement

EP84967 Juv 22/12/90 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG X 09/04/95 Redsled, Mors, Jylland, Denmark

ER48731 Ad 12/01/91 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG w 06/05/95 Toikansuo, Laapeenranla, Kymi, Finland

EH96478 Ad 04/01/86 Majors Green (Worcs) PI X 22/05/95 Kattegat, Jylland, Denmark 975km

ER48409 Pull 31/05/95 Amble (Northumberland) NHSON w 25/10/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 257km

ES91796 Pull 25/06/95 Upper Barden Res (N. Yorks) SPW w 29/10/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 107km

EK56025 1Y 04/01/86 Majors Green (Worcs) PI + 05/11/95 Gandrup, Jylland, Denmark 928km

390836 Pull 18/06/94 Kreluunas, Svencionys, Lithuania w 02/11/95 Stoke-on-Trent (Staffs) 1857km

Lesser Black-backed Gull GJ90666 Juv 06/08/89 Diglis (Worce) WRG w 25/07/94 Wieringermeer, Netherlands 500km

GK49527 Ad 31/12/77 Studley (Warks) PI V 17/01/87 Majors Green (Worcs) X 16/09/94 Walney Island (Cumbria) 218km

Barn Owl GF48181 Pull 04/06/95 Tixall (Staffs) JC X 16/11/95 Caenby Comer (Lines) 118km

GF48178 Pull 04/06/95 Tixall (Staffs) JC X 20/11/95 Blisworth (Northerns) 102km

Kingfisher SB15174 Juv 25/06/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) BRG X 15/08/95 Weedon (Northanls) 30km

Sand Martin H926242 Juv M 28/08/93 Isle ol Grain (Kent) V 11/09/93 Icklesham (Sussex) V 09/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km V 01/07/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids)

J796423 Juv 10/06/96 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) PI V 06/07/95 Braakman, Zeeland, Netherlands

J445455 Juv M 14/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 09/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km

F696139 AdM 19/07/90 Icklesham (Sussex) V 10/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km 168

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

J164721 Juv M 15/08/94 Canterbury (Kent) V 10/06/95 Cornels End, Meriden (W Mids) 231km

J447078 Juv F 20/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 10/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km

J138446 Ad 18/06/94 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) PI V 23/05/95 Kingsley (Hants) 152km

J021068 Juv M 17/08/93 Icklesham (Sussex) V 09/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km

J448063 Juv F 28/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 10/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km

Swallow J930063 Juv F 29/08/94 Betley Mere (Staffs) AJL V 21/08/95 Williamthorpe (Derbys) 70km

Stonechat J616146 Pull 17/05/94 Sale Fell (Cumbria) w 26/02/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 280km w 05/03/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks)

Blackbird RH58058 1YF 29/11/94 Hewell Grange (Worcs) CMG X 25/04/95 Ravlanda, Alvsborg, Sweden 1097km

Cetti's Warbler J241238 JuvM 28/07/93 Brandon Marsh, (Warks) BRG V 14/08/93 Brandon Marsh (Warks) V 29/06/95 Northampton (Northants) 38kms

Sedge Warbler J7689B4 Juv 24/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 14/05/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 217km

H829754 Juv 01/08/92 Brandon Marsh (Warks) BRG V 30/07/93 Flye Meads (Herts) 119km V 20/05/95 Rye Meads (Herts)

J768173 Juv 21/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 10/06/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 217km

J231104 Juv M 01/08/93 Tring (Herts) V 05/07/95 Strensham (Worcs) 102km

J750802 1YM 29/07/94 Ickesham (Sussex) V 25/07/95 Strensham (Worcs) 232km

J342833 1YM 15/08/94 Loch Gelly (Fife) V 01/08/95 Belley Mere (Stalls) 349km

K338154 Ad 30/06/95 Tixall (Staffs) JC V 09/08/95 Etang de Trunvez, Finislerre, France 567km

K339035 Juv 02/08/95 Belley Mere (Staffs) JAL v 24/08/95 Dungeness (Kent) 326km 169

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movemi Marsh Warbler C791667 Pull 04/07/90 Pershore (Worcs) WRG V 20/06/95 R. Avon (Worcs) 4 km

Reed Warbler F436890 1YM 18/08/69 Icklesham (Sussex) V 06/07/95 Bourne Farm (Worcs) 233km

H710403 Juv 15/08/92 Icklesham (Sussex) V 05/06/94 Williamthorpe (Dertoys) 219km V 18/06/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks)

J037218 Ad M 27/06/93 Hungerford (Berks) V 10/06/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 104km V 09/07/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks)

J230943 1YF 08/08/93 Little Marlow (Bucks) V 19/07/95 Bourne Farm (Worcs) 110km

H572439 AdF 13/06/92 Brandon Marsh (Warks) SAG V 21/06/92 Brandon Marsh (Warks) V 22/07/95 Deity (Derbys) 58km

E279914 Juv 07/08/93 Stanford Res (Northants) v 13/05/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 23km

H687792 Pull 22/06/92 Rutland Water (Leics) v 21/05/95 Brandon Marsh (Warks) 60km

Blackcap J930441 Juv F 15/07/95 Betley Mere (Staffs) JAL V 16/09/95 Worthing (Sussex) 275km

H467452 1YM 16/09/92 Beachy Head (Sussex) BHRG V 21/08/94 Old Storridge Common (Worcs) 240km

J36419B Juv 03/07/94 Old Storridge Common (Worcs) WRG V 06/09/94 Purteck (Dorset) 177km

Chiffchaff 6B05B1 Juv 26/07/92 Alfrick (Worcs) WRG V 12/10/92 Renteria, Guipuzcoa, Spain 986km

PY5471 2Y 30/01/93 Pare National du Djoudj, Senegal V 25/07/93 Old Slorridge Common (Worcs) 4158km

Pied Flycatcher J061972 Ad F 16/05/93 Warslow (Staffs) JC V 29/05/94 Purlogue (Salop) 113km V 17/06/95 Fronrhydnewydd (Powys) 133km

H8816B7 Pull 05/06/93 Brandwood (Worcs) JRM V 16/05/95 Canon Pyon (Herefords) 36km 170

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex uaie place Movement

Chaffinch J546503 Juv M 31/12/93 Blithfield (Staffs) JC V 13/03/95 Wetteren, Oost-Vlaanderen, Belgium 446km

K037397 Juv F 19/02/95 Blithfield (Staffs) JC V 13/04/095 Bolton (Lanes) 99km

J364298 FgF 27/11/94 Kemerton (Worcs) WRG X 29/07/95 Lulea, Gaddvik, Noorbotten, Sweden 2034km

Siskin H340759 Juv F 22/01/94 Penrith (Cumbria) V 25/02/95 Uttoxeter (Staffs) 207km

J930263 1YM 16/10/94 Betley Mere (Staffs) JAL V 22/03/95 Balchraggan (Inverness) 537km

K037274 Ad M 29/01/95 Uttoxeter (Staffs) JC V 30/04/95 Ahus, Kristianstad, Sweden 1099km

J413362 2YM 22/01/94 Brewood (Staffs) BS&M V 27/09/95 Rybachiy, Kaliningrad, Russia 1522km

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). All records should be sent to the relevant county recorder as soon as possible after the observation, records ""tl^J, received after January 31st of the following ^^ year may be too late for publication. 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 Smew (Dave Nurney) accompany records of all species listed below in the county tables with an asterisk. An exception to this are geese which are known to be of feral origin. Species marked with two asterisks are currently considered by BBRC and a full description of these should be compiled and sent via the county recorder. In addition descriptions are required for all out-of-season migrants, unusual hybrids and scarce subspecies, including Green-winged Teal, Scandinavian Lesser Black-backed Gull, Scandinavian Rock Pipit, Blue-headed and other flava race Wagtails, White Wagtail (autumn only), Black-bellied Dipper, Chiffchaff races, Hooded Crow and Mealy Redpoll. The lack of an acceptable description may lead to records being rejected. 171

County lists The following tables show all species in categories A-C of the British and Irish List reliably recorded in the four counties of the Region (within current boundaries) since records were kept. The Regional total as at December 31st 1995 is 329. The year entered is the latest in which the species has been observed in each county, with C standing for the current year. Bracketed species refer to birds on the National list which within the Region are not thought to have occurred except as escapes or releases from captivity, and these do not contribute towards the county totals. N/K refers to reliable but undated 19th century records. Species Warks Worcs Staffs WMid * Red-throaled Diver C C C 1979 * Black-throated Diver C C 1994 1987 * Great Northern Diver 1994 1994 1994 1986 Little Grebe C C C C Great Crested Grebe C C C C * Red-necked Grebe C C C 1993 * Slavonian Grebe 1993 1993 C 1991 * Black-necked Grebe C 1994 C 1994 * Fulmar 1994 1989 1993 1991 * Cory's Shearwater - - 1971 - * Manx Shearwater 1994 1994 1992 1990 * European Storm-petrel 197R 1968 1990 1870 * Leach's Storm-petrel 1989 1989 1989 1987 * Gannet 1983 C 1993 1991 Cormorant C C C C 'Shag C 1993 1993 C * Bittern C 1994 C C " Little Bittern 1981 1865 1901 <1836 ** Night Heron C 1983 1987 1994 " Squacco Heron - - 1874 - "Cattle Egret 1994 1993 1987 - * Little Egret C 1994 C <1836 ** Great While Egret C - - C Grey Heron C C C C * Purple Heron 1990 1982 1994 - "Black Stork - 1956 1985 - •White Stork 1896 C 1990 1986 "Glossy Ibis - - 1840 - * Spoonbill 1988 1988 C 1990 Mute Swan C C C C Bewick's Swan C C C 1994 * Whooper Swan C C C C * Bean Goose 1990 1993 1994 - * Pink-footed Goose C 1993 C C * White-fronted Goose C 1994 C 1994 [Lesser White-fronted Goose] 1991 - 1992 - Greylag Goose C C C C [Snow Goose] 1994 1992 C 1992 Canada Goose C C C C * Barnacle Goose C C C C * Brent Goose C 1994 C 1993 [Red-breasted Goose] 1973 - 1992 - Egyptian Goose C 1989 1992 1992 172

Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid * Ruddy Shelduck C 1993 C C Shelduck C C C C Mandarin Duck C C C C Wigeon C C c C ** American Wigeon 1987 - 1994 - Gadwall C C c C Teal C c C c Mallard C c C c Pintail C c C c Garganey C c C c '* Blue-winged Teal 1989 1989 Shoveler C c C c ' Red-crested Pochard C C C c Pochard C C C c * Ring-necked Duck 1992 1990 1977 - * Ferruginous Duck C 1993 1992 1991 Tufted Duck C C C c Scaup C C C c " Lesser Scaup 1987 - * Eider 1993 1993 1993 1993 * Long-tailed Duck 1992 1991 1994 1991 Common Scoter C C C c * Surf Scoter 1986 - * Velvet Scoter C 1985 1992 1994 Goldeneye C C C C * Smew C C C C * Red-breasted Merganser C C C 1992 Goosander C C C C Ruddy Duck C C C C * Honey Buzzard 1993 1987 1994 1903 " Black Kite - 1986 1991 - * Red Kite C C 1994 1993 " White-tailed Eagle 1891 1945 1905 - * Marsh Harrier C C C C * Hen Harrier C C C C * Montagu's Harrier C C 1994 1951 * Goshawk C C C C Sparrowhawk C C C C Common Buzzard C C C C * Rough-legged Buzzard 1994 1979 C - * Golden Eagle N/K - " Osprey C C C 1994 Kestrel C C C C ** Red-footed Falcon 1967 - 1977 1973 * Merlin C C C C Hobby C c C C " Gyr Falcon 1852 - <1844 - * Peregrine C c C c Red Grouse C 1868 Black Grouse _ 1915 C 1897 Red-legged Partridge C C C c Grey Partridge C C C c 'Quail C C C 1994 Pheasant c C C C Species Warks Worcs Staffs WMid [Golden Pheasant] C 1972 1991 1985 Water Rail C C C C * Spotted Crake C C 1993 1994 " Little Crake 1974 - - - * Corncrake 1994 1988 1988 1965 Moorhen C C C C Coot C C C C * Common Crane 1977 - 1991 1903 " Little Bustard - - C1899 N/K ** Great Bustard - C1825 - - Oystercatcher C C C C ** Black-winged Stilt 1987 1986 C - * Avocet 1994 1984 C - * Stone-curlew 1853 C 1956 1991 " Collared Pratincole - 1994 - - Little Ringed Plover C C C C Ringed Plover C C c C * Kentish Plover 1993 1940 c - * Dotterel 1993 1994 1993 1978 ** American Golden Plover 1991 - - - Golden Plover C C C C Grey Plover C c C C " WhitR-tailfiri Plover 1975 - — Lapwing C c c c Knot C 1994 c 1993 Sanderiing C C c C Little Stint C C c C 'Temminckis Stint 1994 1992 1994 1993 ** Least Sandpiper - 1988 1971 - ** White-rumped Sandpiper - - 1989 - * Pectoral Sandpiper 1993 C C 1988 Curlew Sandpiper C C C 1993 * Purple Sandpiper 1993 1988 C 1985 Dunlin C C C C ** Broad-billed Sandpiper 1985 - - - * Buff-breasted Sandpiper C - 1980 - Ruff C C C C Jack Snipe C c C C Common Snipe C c C c " Great Snipe 1894 - 1954 c " Long-billed Dowitcher 1983 1990 - - Woodcock C C C c Black-tailed Godwit C C c c Bar-tailed Godwit C 1994 c 1985 Whimbrel C C c C Curlew C C c C " Upland Sandpiper 1851 - - - Spotted Redshank C C c 1989 Redshank C c c C " Marsh Sandpiper - - 1974 - Greenshank C c C C " Lesser Yellowlegs - - C - Green Sandpiper c c C c Wood Sandpiper c c C 1994 Species Warks Worcs Staffs WMid Cnmmnn Sandpiper C C C C Spotted Sandpiper 1990 - 1982 - Turnstone C C C c Wilson's Phalarope 1968 1985 - - Red-necked Phalarope 1988 1989 1989 1893 Grey Phalarope C 1987 C 1994 Pomarine Skua 1985 C 1991 1985 Arctic Skua 1994 1994 1994 C Long-tailed Skua - 1987 1994 1991 Great Skua 1989 1994 1994 1994 Mediterranean Gull C C C C Laughing Gull - - - 1985 Little Gull C C C C Sabine's Gull 1989 1994 C - Bonaparte's Gull 1992 - 1994 - Black-headed Gull C C C C Ring-billed Gull 1991 1989 1981 1989 Common Gull C C C C Lesser Black-backed Gull C C C C Yellow-legged Gull C C C C Herring Gull C C C C Iceland Gull C C C C Glaucous Gull C C C 1990 Great Black-backed Gull C C C C Kittiwake C C C C Gull-billed Tern 1899 N/K 1989 1896 Caspian Tern 1993 1971 1993 1979 Sandwich Tern C C C 1994 Roseate Tem 1993 1993 1983 - Common Tem C C C C Arctic Tem C C C C Sooty Tem - - 1852 - Little Tem C 1994 C 1994 ' Whiskered Tem 1987 1994 1970 - Black Tem C C C C ' White-winged Black Tem 1983 1992 1992 1977 ' Guillemot N/K - 1920 1980 Razorbill N/K 1953 - 1912 Little Auk C 1993 1994 1991 Puffin 1953 1963 1983 1963 ' Pallas's Sandgrouse 1888 1888 1908 1888 Feral Pigeon C C C C Stock Dove C C C C Woodpigeon C C C C Collared Dove C C C C Turtle Dove C C C C Ring-necked Parakeet C 1992 1993 1994 Cuckoo C C C C Bam Owl C C C C Little Owl C C C C Tawny Owl C C C C Long-eared Owl C C C C Short-eared Owl C C C C ' Tengmalm's Owl - 1901 - - Nightjar 1989 C C 1979 Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Needle-tailed Swift - - 1991 _ Common Swift C c c C Alpine Swift - 1994 - 1988 Kingfisher r. c C C Bee-eater 1886 1970 — 1955 Roller - - 1908 - Hoopoe c 1992 1991 1994 Wryneck 1994 c 1994 C Green Woodpecker C c C C Great Spotted Woodpecker C C C C Lesser Spotted Woodpecker C C C C Woodlark 1976 1992 C 1985 Skylark C C C C Shore Lark 1994 1987 1992 - Sand Martin C C C C Swallow C C C c Red-rumped Swallow 1972 1992 - - House Martin C C C c Richard's Pipit - 1967 1994 1994 Tawny Pipit - - 1953 - Tree Pipit C C C C Meadow Pipit c C C c Red-throated Pipit 1994 - - - Rock Pipit C c C c Water Pipit C c c c Yellow Wagtail C c c c Grey Wagtail C c c c Pied Wagtail C c c c Waxwing 1992 1992 1992 1992 Dipper 1994 C C 1986 Wren C C C C Dunnock C C C C Alpine Accentor 1904 - - - Robin C C C C Nightingale c C 1991 1979 Bluethroat c 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart c C C C Common Redstart c C C C Whinchat c c C C Stonechat c c C C Northern Wheatear c c C C White's Thrush 1895 - - - Ring Ouzel C c C C Blackbird C c c c Dusky Thrush - 1979 - - Black-throated Thrush - - 1978 - Fieldfare C c C c Song Thrush c c C c Redwing c c C c Mistle Thrush c c C c Cetti's Warbler c c 1978 1988 Grasshopper Warbler c c C C Savi's Warbler c 1994 1977 - Aquatic Warbler - 1983 - - Sedge Warbler c c C c Species Warks Worcs Staffs WMid •Marsh Warbler 1992 C 1956 1982 Reed Warbler C C (J C " Great Reed Warbler 1979 - - - * Icterine Warbler - 1942 1993 - * Dartford Warbler 1914 C N/K - * Barred Warbler 1979 - - - Lesser Whitethroat C C C c Common Whitethroat C C C c Garden Warbler C c C c Blackcap C c c c ** Arctic Warbler - - 1993 — * Pallas's Warbler 1993 1987 1970 - * Yellow-browed Warbler - 1993 1994 - Wood Warbler C C C c Chiffchaff C C C c Willow Warbler C C C c Goldcrest c C C c • Firecresl c C C 1994 Spotted Flycatcher c C C C * Red-breasted Flycatcher 1992 - - - Pied Flycatcher C C c c * Bearded Tit 1994 1994 1991 1993 Long-tailed Tit C C C C Marsh Tit C C C C Willow Tit C C C C Coal Tit C C C C Blue Tit C C C C Great Tit C C C c Nuthatch C C C c Treecreeper C C C c * Golden Oriole 1994 1993 1988 1990 * Red-backed Shrike 1983 1988 1976 1984 " Lesser Grey Shrike - 1987 - - * Great Grey Shrike 1991 C C 1986 * Woodchat Shrike - 1893 - - Jay C C c C Magpie C C c C " Nutcracker — - 1991 - 'Chough - 1826 - - Jackdaw c C C c Rook c C c c - Carrion Crow c C c c * Raven ('except Worcs) 1994 C c c Starling C C c c " Rose-coloured Starling 1890 1855 1987 1890 House Sparrow C C C C Tree Sparrow C C C C Chaffinch C C C C Brambling C C C C * Serin — 1981 C - Greenfinch C C C c Goldfinch c C C c Siskin c C c c Linnet c C c c •Twite 1992 1992 c 1991 177

Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Redpoll C C C C ** Arctic Redpoll - - C - ** Two-barred Crossbill - 1838 1980 — Common Crossbill 1994 C C. C Bullfinch C C C C Hawfinch C c C 1993 * Lapland Bunting 1981 1986 1993 1979 * Snow Bunting 1993 1993 C 1988 Yellowhammer C c C C * Cirl Bunting 1959 1983 1951 1950 " Rustic Bunting - 1987 - - * Little Bunting 1902 1994 C - Reed Bunting C c C C Corn Bunting C C C C

" Baltimore Oriole - - - 1968 County List Totals 287 285 296 257

Gazetteer The following alphabetical list (or each county gives the grid reference (if known) of all localities mentioned in the Classified Notes.

Warwickshire Abbey Fields SP2878 Bretford SP4277 Edge Hill SP3747 Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Bulkington SP3987 Edgehill Wood SP3848 Admington SP2046 Burton Dassett SP3951 Exhall SP3485 Alcester SP0857 Butler's End SP2484 Fenny Compton SP4152 Alvecote SK2504 Butlers Marslon SP3150 Fillongley SP2887 Ansty SP3983 Flecknoe SP5163 Aibury Hall SP3389 Chadshunt SP3553 Furnace End SP2491 Austrey SK2906 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Chartecote SP2656 Avon Dassett SP4149 Gaydon SP3654 Chase Lane SP2773 Gredenton Hill SP4051 BAD Kineton SP3651 Chesterton SP3558 Baglnton Airport SP3574 Church Pool Covert SP2092 Hams Hall SP2092 Baginton Lagoons SP3573 Claverdon STW SP2064 Harbury SP3760 Bascote SP3864 Close Wood SP2584 Hartshlll SF SP3395 Beausale SP2370 Coleshill SP2089 Hawkesbury SP3684 Bedworth SP35B6 Compton Vemey SP3152 Heach Wood SP2488 Bedworth Slough SP3587 Complon Wynyates SP3341 Hell Hole SP3054 Bedworth Woodlands SP3487 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Honington SP2642 Bentley Woods SP2B95 Corley SP3085 Hunningham SP3768 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Coton SP2194 Hurley SP2495 Blllesley SP1456 Cottage Farm SP2988 idlicote SP2844 Bishop's Bowl Lakes SP3858 Coughton Court SP0860 llmington Downs SP1942 Bishop's Gorse SP3354 Curdworth SP1892 Blyth Hall SP2090 Itchington Holl SP3755 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Dordon SK2600 Jubilee Pools SP3873 Bowshot Wood SP3053 Dosthill Pit SP2098 Bralles SP3337 Draycote Water SP4669 Kenilworth SP2971 Bramcote Barracks SP4088 Keresley Newland SP3284 Bramcote Mains SP4188 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Kineton SP3351 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Eathorpe Marsh SP3868 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 178

Kingsbury WP SP2097 Packwood SP1772 Thelsford SP2758 Knightcote SP4055 Piccadilly SP2298 Thurlaston SP4671 Pilluilun Heisey 0r2340 TjjOii CP011-1 Ladbroke SP4158 Pleasance Farm SP2672 Ladywalk SP2191 Polesworth SK2602 Ufton Fields SP3861 Lawford Heath SP4676 Poollields SP3253 Ufton Wood SP3862 Lea Marston SP2093 Princethorpe SP4070 Umberslade SP1371 Leamington Spa SP3165 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Upton SP3645 Lighthome SP3355 Priors Marston SP4957 Lighthome Quarry SP3456 Walsgrave Hill SP3980 Lighthome Rough SP3154 Radford Semele SP3464 Walton SP28S3 Lillington SP3267 Radway SP3649 Walton Hall SP2852 Long Itchington SP4165 Ragley Park SP0755 Wappenbury Wood SP3770 Long Itchington Wood SP3963 Round Hill Wood SP2952 Warton STW SK2703 Long Marston SP1548 Rowington SP2069 Warwick SP2864 Lower Radboum SP4457 Rugby SP5175 Wasperton SP2658 Luddington SP1652 Rugby Waterworks SP5176 Watergall SP4255 Ryton Gardens SP4074 Wavertey Wood SP3570 Martcliff SP0950 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Marston SP2094 Salford Priors SP0751 Wellesbourne SP2755 Marston Jabbett SP3788 Seckington SK2607 Wellesbourne Airfield SP2654 Marton Moor SP4068 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Wellesboume Wood SP2753 Maxstoke SP2386 Shelfield SP1262 Weston-under-Wethertey SP3669 Middleton Hall SP1998 Sherboume SP2661 Whatcote SP3043 Milcote SP1852 Shotteswell SP4245 Whateley SP2299 Shuckburgh Whitacre Heath SP2192 Napton Holt SP4559 SP4961 Shustoke Res Whittleford SP3291 Napton-on-the-Hill SP4661 SP2291 Wibtott SP4787 Napton Res SP4759 Snitterfield Bushes SP2060 Wiggins Hill SP1793 Nelson's Quarry SP4464 Snowford SP3865 Wills Pastures SP4356 Newton Regis SK2707 Somers, The SP2282 Southam Wishaw SP1794 Nuneaton SP3691 SP4162 Stockingford SP3491 Wolston SF SP3974 Oakley Wood SP3059 Stockton SP4365 Wolverton SP2062 Offchurch SP3666 Stoneton Moat SP4654 Wood End SP2398 Oldberrow SP1165 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Wootton Pool SP1563 Oversley Green SP0956 Sych Wood SP2092 Wormleighton Res SP4451

Packington SP2384 Temple Pool SP3744 Yamingale Common SP1966

Worcestershire Abbertey Hills S07566 Black Hill S07640 Callow Hill S07473 Abberton S09953 Blackpole SOS657 Carrant Brook S09535 Alfrick S07453 Bradley Green S09861 Castlemorton Common S07839 Alvechurch SP0272 Bredon S09136 Chaddesley Wood S09073 Artey Wood S08082 Bredon Hill S09139 Chase End Wood S0763S Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 Bredon's Hardwick S0913S Church Lench SP0251 Ashmoor Common S08446 Bredon's Norton S09339 Clent S09379 Astley Cross S07867 Bricklehampton S09842 Clifton-on-Sevem S08446 Aston Mill Pit S09435 British Camp S07640 Clifton-on-Teme S07161 Broadway GP SP0837 Cotton Hackett SP0075 Beckford S09735 Bromsgrove S09570 Cotton Res. SP0075 Berrington SOS767 Broome S09078 Cotton Richards SP0175 Besford S09144 Bungay Lake Farm S09271 Coldridge Wood S08082 Bewdley S07875 Burcott S09871 Croome Park S08844 Bickley S06471 Busk Coppice S0696S Crowle S09256 Bishampton S09851 Crowle Green S09256 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Calcot Hill S09478 Bittell SP0174 Callow End SOS349 Delford S 09143 179

•odford S09373 Kinsham GP S09336 Ribbesford S07872 Dowles Brook S07776 Knapp, The S07451 Ripple Marsh S08736 Oroilwich SOB963 Kyre Pool S06364 Rock S07371 •unhampslead S09160 Rous Lench S00153 Larford S08169 Rushwick S08253 Eari's Common S0955B Lenchlord SOB964 Ryall GP S08639 Eckington S09241 Lickey Hills S09975 Evesham Little Comberton S09643 SP0343 Salwarpe Valley S08661 Eymore Wood Little Malvern S07740 S07779 Saxon's Lode S08638 Little Witley S07863 Severn Sloke S08544 Liltleworth S08850 Feckenham SP0061 Shaver's End S07668 Longdon Marsh S08236 Femhill Healh S08659 Sheriff's Lench SP0149 Long Hill S06066 Fladbury S09946 Shemal Green S09161 Lower Moor S09847 Shorthorn Wood S09950 Lower Sapey S06969 Gadbury Bank S07931 Shortwood Roughs S00270 Lower Smite Farm SOB956 Grafton Pool S09B56 Shrawley S08064 Lower Slrensham S09040 Great Willey S07565 Shrawley Woods SO8O66 Grimley S08360 Sling Pool S09477 Malvern Grit Lane S07749 S07745 Smite S08958 Malvern Hills S07745 Guartford S08145 Spetchley Park S08953 Malvern Link S07847 Gullet, The S07638 Stanford Bridge S07165 Marsh Common SOB 942 Stanford Court S07065 Midsummer Hill S07637 Habbertey Valley S06076 Stanford-on-Teme S07065 Mill Pond SO7737 Hall Green S07746 Stepping Stones Hill S09380 Monk Wood S08060 Hallow S0B2SB Stockton-on-Teme S07167 Monkwood Green S08060 Hampton Lovett SOBB65 Stoke Bliss S06562 Mount Segg SOB675 Hanbury Park S09464 Stone S08574 Hanley Castle SOB442 Stour Hill S08373 Hanley Child S06565 Nafford S09441 Slourport S08171 Happy Valley S07645 New Mill Bridge S07262 Strensham Lagoons S09139 Harllebuiy Tip S08470 New Pool S07843 Suckley Hills S07352 Hawkbatch Wood S07677 North Hill S07646 Sutton Par S06266 Haws Hill S06065 North Piddle S09654 Swinyard Hill S07638 Hayslad S07743 Nunnery Wood S08754 Hewell Grange SP0069 Tardebigge Res S09868 Hewell Park Lake SP0169 Oakley S08960 Teme Valley S066/76 High Green S08645 Ockeridge S07963 Tenbury Wells S06068 Hillditch Coppice S08270 Oddingley S09159 Thomgrove S08260 Himbleton S0945B Old Hills Common S08246 Throckmorton Tip S09748 Hinton-on-lhe-Green SP0240 Oldington S08274 Tibberton S09057 Hittertiill S07675 Orieton S06967 Timbertionger S09170 Hollybed Common SO7737 Torton S08472 Holt S08262 Peopleton S09350 Town Coppice S07676 Holt Healh SOB 162 Perseverance Hill S07642 Trapnell Brook S06371 Holy Cross S09278 Pershore S09045 Trench Wood S09258 Hoobrook S08374 Picken End S08142 Trimpley Res S07678 Huddington S09457 Pinnacle Hill S07641 Pinvin S09549 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Pipers Hill S09565 Uffmoor Wood S09581 Island Pool S08580 Pirton S08747 Uplon-upon-Sevem S08540 Poolbrook Common S07944 Upton Warren S09367 Jubilee Gardens S07875 Pound Green Common S07378 Powick Ham S08352 Wallshill Wood S06260 Kateshill S07B75 Prickley Green S07661 Walton Hill S09479 Kempsey S08549 Purshall Green S09071 Wamdon S08856 Kempsey Common S08748 Wassell Wood S07977 Kidderminster SOB376 Raggedstone Hill S07536 Webhealh SP0166 Kinsham S09335 Redditch SP0467 Welland S07940 180

West Hagley S09080 Wildmoor Tip S09576 Worcestershire Beacon S07645 Westmancote S09337 Wirehill Wood SP0265 Wyche Cutting S07744 Westwood S08763 Willey Court bU/bb4 wyre forest S07470 Wichenford S07B60 Woodbury Hill S07564 Wythall SP0875 Wickhamford SP0641 Wood Norton SP0147 Wilden S08272 Worcester S08454 Yeald Wood SP0152

Staffordshire Abbots Bromley SK0824 Cannock Chase SK0017 Great Wyriey SJ9907 Abraham's Valley SK0019 Cannock Tip SJ9909 Greenway Bank CP SJ8855 Acton Trussell SJ9317 Catholme SK2016 Gun Hill SJ9761 Alrewas SK1715 Cauldon Low SK0848 Alsagers Bank SJ8048 Chartley Park SK0028 Hamps Valley SK0953 Alton SK0742 Chasewater SK0307 Hanch Res SK1013 Anslow SK2125 Checkhill Bog S08587 Hanchurch SJ8441 Aqualale SJ7720 Cheddlelon SJ9752 Hanchurch Hills/Wood SJ8340 Ashwood SO8688 Chillinglon SJ8606 Handsacre Flashes SK0916 Audley SJ7950 Chillinglon Lower Avenue SJ8807 Hanley Forest Park SJ8848 Awbridge S08694 Clay Mills SK2625 Harthills SJ8645 Axe Edge SK0370 Clayton SJ8543 Hazel Barrow Moor SK0163 Codsall SJ8703 Hem Heath SJ8840 Colwich SK0121 Hen Cloud SK0061 Back Dane SJ9766 Coombes Valley SK0052 Highgate Common SOB389 Back Forest SJ9865 Copmere SJ8029 Hill Ridware SK0717 Baddeley Green SJ9151 Crossplains SK1624 Hinkslord SOS891 Bagots Park SK0927 Croxall GP SK1914 Hockley SK2200 Baldstones SK0164 Croxden GP SK0341 Hollybush Lake SK1326 Barton GP SK2017 Horse Pasture Pools SK0413 Barton Turn SK2018 Danebridge SJ9665 Hulme SK1059 Basford Green SJ9951 Deephayes CP SJ96S3 Bearstone Mill SJ7238 Dosthill north GP SP2099 Ipstones Edge SK0450 Beaudesert SK0313 Dovedale SK14S2 Beech SJ8538 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Keele University SJ8244 Belvide Res SJ8610 Draycott Common SJ9842 Kettlebrook Park SK2103 Bemmersley Tip SJ8854 Drayton Bassett SK1900 Kiddemore Green SJ8508 Beresford Dale SK1258 Drystone Edge SK0268 Kings Bromley SK1216 Betley Hall Gardens SJ7549 Dydon Wood SK1344 Betley Mere SJ7548 Kingswood SJ9908 Knighton Res SJ7427 Blckford SJ8814 Eccleshall SJ8329 Biddulph SJ8857 Knotbury SK0168 Eland Brook SK1426 Knypersley Res SJ8955 Bignall Hill SJB250 Elford GP SK1810 Bishton SK0220 Enville S08286 Lady Edge SK0562 Blackbrook SK0064 Lawneswood S08787 Blithbury SK0820 Far Hoarcross SKI322 Leek SJ9856 Blithfield Res SK0623 Fazeley SK2001 Lichfield SK1110 Blythe Marsh SJ9640 Fisherwick SKI 709 Little Aston SK0900 Borrowpil SK2003 Ford Green SJ89S0 Little Onn SJ8316 Brakenhurst SKI 423 Four Ashes SJ9208 Little Wyriey SK0105 Branston GP/WP SK2120 Foxt SK0348 Loggerheads SJ7335 Brewood SJ8808 Longsdon Wood SJ9655 Broclon SJ9619 Gailey SJ9310 Lum Edge SK0660 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 Gerrards Bromley SJ7734 Brocton NR SJ9618 Gib Torr SK0264 Madeley Pool SJ7744 Burton-upon-Trent SK2423 Gnosall SJ8220 Manifold Valley SK0954 Butterton SK0756 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Mayfield SK1S45 Gothersley S08586 Meir Heath SJ9340 Calf Heath SJ9309 Gradbach Hill SJ9965 Mermaid Inn SK0360 Cannock SJ9710 Great Haywood SJ9922 Middle Hills SK0363 181

Milldale SK1354 Rugeley Power Station SK0517 Trentham Park/Gardens SJ8640 Minster Pool SKI109 Trysull S08594 Seighlord SJ8824 Mitton SJ8815 Seisdon SOS394 Morridge Top SK0256 Uttoxeter SK0933 Seven Springs SK0020 Mucklestone SJ7237 Sli««y walks SOBlbb Wall Grange SJ9754 Needwood Forest SKI 724 Shenstone SK1004 Waterhouses SK0850 Newcastle-under-Lymn SJ8445 Sherbrook Valloy SJ9010 Wee (oid SK1403 Shugborough SJ9922 Weeping Cross SJ9421 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Shutt Green SJ8709 Werrlngton SJ9447 Orchard Common SK0269 Silverdale Colliery SJ8146 Westlands SJ8344 Park Hall CP SJ9345 Smestow S08591 Weston Bank SJ9727 Pattingham S08299 Springslade Lodge SJ9716 Westport SJ8550 Pendelord Mill NR SJ8904 Slaflord SJ9223 Wetley Moor SJ9248 Pepper Slade SJ9917 Staflord Common SJ9125 Wetton Mill SK0956 Porthill Bank SJ8548 Stanley Pool SJ9351 Wheaton Aston SJ8512 Prestwood SK1042 Stoke-on-Trent SJ8745 Whltemoor Hay SK1813 Punch Bowl SJ9820 Stourton SOS685 Whittlngton SK1608 Stowe-by-Chartley SK0027 Whittlngton Common S08682 Radford Bank SJ9320 Swallow Moss SK0660 Wilnecote SK0111 Ramshom SK0845 Swynnerton SJ853S Wolf Edge SK0267 Rawbones Meadows SJ9822 Wolfscote Dale SK1456 Tamworth SK2003 Rlckerscote SJ9320 Wolstanton SJ8547 Talenhlll SK2021 Rldgehlll Wood S08787 Wootton Park SK0944 Thomcliffe SK1058 Roach End SJ9964 Wychnor Locks SK1715 Three Shire Heads SK0068 Roaches SK0063 Wyrley Hayes SK0203 Rocester SK1139 Tillington Cemetery SJ9024 Rudyard Res SJ9459 Tittesworth Res SJ9959 Yoxall SK1419 Rugeley SK0417 Tixall SJ9722 Yoxall Park SK1521

West Midlands Aldridge SK0500 Brookvale Park SP0991 Earlsdon SP3277 Allesley Park SP2980 Brownhills Nature Trail SJ0306 Earlswood (Norton Lane) SP1074 Amblecote S09085 Brueton Park SP1678 Edgbaston SP0584 Aston SP0889 Brunswick Park S09995 Edgbaston Park SP0584 Buckpool S08986 Edgbaston Res SP0486 Balsall Common SP2476 Bumble Hole S09588 Elmdon SP1682 Barr Beacon SP0697 Barr Common SP0699 Camp Lane SK1200 Fens Pools S09188 Bartley Res SP0081 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Finham SP3375 Berkswell SP2479 Castle Bromwich SP1489 Fishley SK0003 Bickenhill SP1882 CasUecroft S08797 Foleshill Gasworks SP3582 Billesley SP0980 Chadwick End SP2073 Foots Hole S09087 Bilston S09496 Chelmsley Wood SP1886 Fordhouses SJ9002 Birmingham Airport SP1784 Cinder Bank S09388 Four Oaks SP1198 Birmingham City Centre SP0686 Clayhanger SK0404 Bloxwich Cemetery SK0002 Close Wood SP2584 Gibbet Hill SP3074 Bluebell Park S09391 Coombeswood S09785 Goscote Valley SK0102 Bordesley Green SP0886 Cotwall End S09192 Great Bridge S09792 Botanical Gardens SP0485 Coundon Court SP3181 Bourne Vale SP0699 Coventry City Centre SP3379 Haden Hill Park S09585 Boumeville SP4081 Cradley Heath S09485 Halesowen S09683 Bowmans Harbour S09399 Cuckoo's Nook SP0598 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Brades Hall S09790 Hamstead SP0493 Bradnock's Marsh SP2179 Darby's Hill S09689 Handsworth Park SP0590 Brandwood Cemetery SP0779 Dickens Heath SP1176 Handsworth Wood SP0590 Branton Hill Quarry SK0600 Digbeth SP0786 Harbome NR SP0285 Brockmoor S09087 Dorridge SP1675 Hawkesbury Locks SP3684 Bromwich Wood S09981 Dunstall Park SJ9000 Hayhead Wood SP0498 182

Hay Mills SP1184 Park Hall Pool SK0397 Stubber's Green SK0401 Hockley SP0588 Parkes Hall Pool S09392 Sutton Coldfield SP12S6 Hockley Heath SPI572 Faik Lima Piti CP0200 Sutton Ps* spnqa7 Hydes Road Pool S09994 Pedmore S09182 Pelsall SK0203 Tettenhall SJ8800 Tidbury Green SP1075 llley S09881 Pelsall North Common SK0103 Tile Hill Wood SP2878 llshaw Heath SP1374 Penn SOS996 Pensnett S09188 Tividale S09791 King's Heath SP0781 Perry Hall Park SP0591 Vale, The SP05B4 King's Norton SP0579 Potter's Green SP3782 Valley Park SJB900 Kingswinford S08886 Pype Hayes GC SP1392 Victoria Park (Smethwick) SP0288 Victoria Park (Tipton) S09591 Lady Pool SK0200 Queslett NP SP0694 Liflord Res SP0579 Walsall SP0196 Lodge Green SP2583 Rattlechain Tip S09791 Walsall Arboretum SP0198 Longford SP3583 Red House Park SP0394 Walsgrave SP3881 Lutley S09483 Rushall Manor SP0299 Wednesfield SJ9400 Wergs SJ8700 Marston Green SP1781 St. Margaret's Lakes SP0594 West Bromwich SP0091 Meriden SP2481 Saltley SP0987 West Smethwick Park SP0088 Meriden GP SP2381 Saltwells Wood S09387 Whitley SP3577 Meriden Shafts SP2G83 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Whitmore Reans S09099 Minworth SF SP1592 Sarehole Park SP0981 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Monkspath SP1474 Sheepwash UP S09791 Wightwick SOB698 Mons Hill S09392 Sheldon CP SP8415 Willenhall S09698 Moseley SP0783 Shire Oak Park SK0504 Winterboume SP0584 Moseley GC SP0879 Shirley SP1279 Wishaw SP1695 Mushroom Green Marsh S09386 Shut End SOS989 Witton Cemetery SP0892 Small Heath SP0985 Witton Lakes SP0S92 Nechells SP0989 Smethwick SP0288 Wollaston S08884 Netherton Hill S09388 Smethwick Hall Pool SP0188 Wolverhampton S09198 Netherton Res S09387 Solihull SP1579 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Norton SOB992 Somers Road GP SP23B2 Woodsetton S09292 Spring Vale S09395 Woodshires Green SP3484 Old Walsall Airfield SP0499 Stambermill S09395 Wren's Nest S09391 Oldbury S09689 Stivichall SP3376 Wychbury Hill S091B1 Oldswinford S09083 Stoke Floods SP3778 Wyken Slough SP3683 Olton SP1382 Stoke Park SP3579 Overgreen SP1673 Stourbridge SOS983 Yardley Wood SP1080 183

Key to Contributors The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the classified notes, while those marked with an asterisk also contributed to the ringing report. Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone. II would greatly help compilation if observers could give their lull set of initials with their records; this would cut down confusion between similar names or initials by identifying Ihe observer more uniquely.

D J Abbott E S Clare D Goodwin (DG) P H Adams N Clark (NCI) G Greaves M Adkins P Clark (PCk) G H Green J LAIIton J Clarke (JC1) F C Gribble B M Andepas P Clarke (PC) C M Griffiths* G J Ariss K M Clements C Grove MA Arnold K G Clifford D Grundy (DGr) N G Arnold D Clifton (DC) J V Gulley J A Asbury D J Clifton K Aslett P Clifton P M Hackett P F Atherton T Clifton M J Hadlington C Cole J Halstead P Bache (BS&M)• D Coles (DCo) A Hancock (AN) C Baker T Coleshaw (TC) A Hands (AHs) Banbury Ornithological Society R Collins* R E Harbird (BOS) P J Copson T A Hartey A J Barker* S Corbett (SCo) P A Harper S R J Barker B Craddock M Harrison (MH) N P Bartow G Crawford S L Haycox D A Barnes M Cresswell S M Haynes M Barnes (MBa) S Croft (SC) G Hayter L R Bayes S J Cull M Hemming (MHe) M D Baynes A Curran R Hemming (RH) Beachy Head Ringing Qioup P A Curry F Henderson (BHRG)' T C Hextell J T Belsey B Daphne B Higginbottom Belvide Log H Darwen R J Higginbottom D G Bennet H A Davis J K Higginson Birdline Midlands L J Davis D R Hildick-Smith M Blairs {MB!) A J Dean D I Hill K Bollinglon AR Dean T M Hinett M D Boole (MD0) S R Deane J R Hodson D Booth P K Dedicoat J V Holtham M H Bourne A Dickie M Honeyman (MHo) J J Bowley F Dickson R R Howl I Boyle A K Dolphin S J Huggins R W Bradley Doxey Marsh Binlwatchlng Group R Hume (RHu) Brandon Marsh Conservation Group (DMBG) R V C Humphreys (BMCG) P Douthwaite P D Hyde Brandon Ringing Group (BRG)' Draycote Log G Brereton S M Dungey M J Inskip C Brewster (CBr) P Ireland* P Brewster S Edwards J H Brindle D W Emley C Brittle {CB) S M Emley A G Jackson LA Brown G J Etherington W T Jackson N Brown D A Evans A F Jacobs A Brydges G Evans SJaggs M Buxton (MB) M D James W Buxton G A Farmer R J Jennett J E Fortey D A Jennings J Cameron* (JC) M Fox D W Jennings N Carter (Stalls) (NC) R M Fray J Jobling N Carter (Warks) R P Fray B Jones P W Cashmore E French G N Jones I G Cave P French P Jones S L Cawthray R Fussell J F C Judge Central Science Laboratory MAFF (CSL)- N D Galloway M J Kedwards D Charles-Edwards P G Gamer P P Kelly Chasewater Wildlife Group S Gibson A Kelsall J A Chidwick G I Giles D Kelsall B Church W Goldstraw D J Kightley 184

H King Pensnett Wildlife Group P Taylor (PT) R J King G H Peplow J C Teasdale H I Kingtnn W F Penlow A H Thomas J Knighton WRH Peplow G F Tliomas B R Perry KH Thomas G D Laight W Pieram R J Thomas D Lancashire J G Plan! P Thompson C J Lane M Powell < R E Thompson J A Lawrence* C J Price M Till A R Layfield RW Price C J Timmins M J Lewis T Price E ATunbridge J Liggins A Prilchard F W Tunbridge P W Lines D C Prowse C E Turner D I Long R A Prudden M E Turner W J Low* S J Turner G Lowe H S Qulney

V Machin J Raby Valley Park Bird Group (VPBG) Malvern Hills Conservators (MHC) R Randall P J Mansell D Raldiffe J Wagslaff (JW) G J Mant B Reavey PA Wain B M Marsh J H W Ridley SWain J P Martin D R Roberts 0 Waite (DW) AG Marx A Robinson M I Wakeman R Maskew C H Roe D I M Wallace R C Mays S Roper P Ward J McCowan - S A Roper R J Wardle C McShane (BS&M)' K Rowley AWarr Mercian Ringing Group (MUG)' RSPB Sandwell Valley R Warren S Micklewright Warwickshire Natural History Sandwell Valley Birders (SVB) T Mlddleton Museum D J Scanlan C D T Minion' Warwickshire Wildlife Trust R E Scott J R Mounttord' S P Warwood" Seven Estuary Gull Group (SEGG)' M Wateihouse A Shearwood (BSSM)• Natural History Society ol A R Western A G Shepherd Northumberland (NHSN)' B Westwood (BW) J H Sirrett P P Newell P F Whitehead D Skldmore [OS) P A J Newman 1 C Whitehouse F Skinner G K Nicholls S M Whitehouse L Slack A Nolan J Wilkinson T G Smart S D Norman A G Williams B Smith SNuttall K Wimbush B W Smith J R Winsper D Smith (DSm) J Oakes B Wood L Smith D Otter SC Wood P Smith A M Oldacre M G Woodhams J P South D M Oldacre D Woodhead M Squires M F Oliver M W C Woodward M S Stainton N F Osborne Wychavon Ringing Group M A Stephens C C Owen (WRG)' F G Stokes N Page G Summers M W Painting M Sutton M Yapp