West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 63 1996 Waxwing, Rugeley, Staffs, April (Phill Ward)

West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 63 1996 Waxwing, Rugeley, Staffs, April (Phill Ward). West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 63 1996

The Annual Report of 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 1996

12 Classified Notes

168 Short Notes

172 Ringing in 1996

178 Submission of Records

179 County Lists

186 Gazetteer

192 Key to Contributors

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

Printed by Healeys-Printers Ltd, Unit 10, The Sterling Complex, Farlhing Hoad, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5AP. Price £5.00 2

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 1997 President C A Norris 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 Ivyfield Road, Erdington, Birmingham B23 7HH Treasurer *B J Cartwright, 41 Mucklestone Wood Lane, Loggerheads, Nr Market Drayton, Shrops TF9 4ED 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 J J Bowley (address above) Worcestershire R E Harbird, Flat 4, Buckley Court, 16 Woodfield Road, Recorder Moseley, Birmingham B13 9UJ Staffordshire Recorder 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 This, my fourth Annual Report, is unfortunately also my last as Editor, as increasing family commitments mean that I no longer have much spare time in the day to devote to it. I have greatly enjoyed my time in the job, despite many problems encountered along the way, although few people will appreciate the number of hours needed to produce the finished article) In my time I have tried, hopefully with some success, to modernise the report and bring it into line with other current publications, though still attempting to keep the basic style that marks it out from the rest. One constant criticism is that the lateness of the publication date in recent years means that the report has no relevance. The completion delay is indeed unfortunate (and one that is being rectified), but my reply to this is that the main importance of the modern bird report is not as a summary of rare bird sightings (a subject more than adequately covered by several national publications) but as an archive of material covering the current state of our birdlife for use by future generations. Less than thorough trawling of available data means that many useful records are lost to posterity. County bird reports are also constantly being used for reference by staff at the RSPB and BTO (a fact not always appreciated by the ordinary birdwatcher), which means that your local records of common birds are extremely valuable. During my term I have tried to extend the space given to entries for our commoner birds in the hope that it will encourage you to send in more records for these species, and this has been partially successful. Records summarising regular census work or counts over limited areas tend to be the most valuable, so please keep them coming! In conclusion, I would like to extend my thanks to the many people without whose help the report could never be completed, especially the authors of the Short Notes for their material; to Steve Haynes, John Judge, Simon Roper and Carl Baggott for help with collating the Warwickshire section; to Mike Gaydon and the staff at Healeys Printers Ltd, to my wife Dawn for help with compilation, and to the following: The cpunty recorders and their teams: Worcestershire: Richard Harbird. Staffordshire: Gilly Jones, Eric Clare, Dave Emley, Bill Low, John Martin, R Powell, Ben Reavey and Mark Sutton. West Midlands: Tim Hextell. The Artists: Phil Jones, Dave Nurney, Terry Parker, John Teasdale and Brett Westwood. The Photographers: lain Leach, Neil Stych and Phill Ward. WMBC Hotline: Eric Clare (01283-791171). J J Bowley 4

Birds in 1996 1996 will long be remembered for some of the best birdwatchirig in the Hegion In the club's history. A record total of 242 species were seen, beating the previous best of 240 in 1994, including no fewer than six firsts for the Region. These included two different Baird's Sandpipers, together with Desert Wheatear, River, Melodious and Dusky Warblers, and Pine Bunting. There were second records of Collared Pratin- cole, Laughing Gull and Dark-throated Thrush, as well as numerous lesser rarities including three White Storks, Blue-winged Teal, Stone-curlew, White-rumped Sandpiper, Wilson's Phalarope, Sabine's, Bonaparte's and Ring-billed Gulls, White-winged Black Tern, Alpine Swift, Yellow-browed Warbler and a number of Arctic Redpolls. Added to this, record-breaking invasions of Little Stint, Waxwing, Mealy Redpoll and successful breeding by Black-necked Grebes, there was no shortage of excitement during the year. Weather-wise the year was more unsettled than recently, with some periods of intense cold at both ends of the year. After a cold wet spring there were some periods of very warm weather during late summer, followed by a generally mild and often sunny autumn. The freezing conditions of late December 1995 lasted until January 3rd when a thaw began, followed by mild and unsettled weather dominated by a strong south-westerly wind. However'conditions were generally very dull and overcast, in fact the dullest January since 1909. Some good birdwatching was possible, with large influxes of wildfowl, winter thrushes and other birds making spectacular viewing. Among the former were around 120 each of White-fronted Geese and Bewick's Swans, plus large numbers of Goosander (including record counts of 190 at Belvide and 142 at Blithfield) and over 40 Smew. Amongst highlights were two Red-throated and single Black-throated and Great Northern Divers, a Slavonian Grebe, three Bitterns, a Long-tailed Duck, Bean Goose and the only two Glaucous Gulls of the year. The freeze brought in a scatter of waders, with eight Grey Plover alone on the 1st, while Ringed Plover, Knot, Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff and Turnstone were all seen. The highlight of the first few days was an adult Ring-billed Gull on the frozen Fens Pools on 3rd, while the south-westerlies brought in at least 13 Little Gulls during the first two weeks, including six together at Shustoke. Passerines were also well represented, with winter thrushes and Blackcaps perhaps the most obvious as large numbers resorted to suburban gardens. Amongst the huge flocks of Fieldfares, no fewer than three wintering Ring Ouzels were discovered, but the real highlight of this period was the discovery of the Region's second (and first twitchable) Dark-throated Thrush in a Redditch suburb on 17th. This bird remained here with Redwings until well into February. Large flocks of Mealy Redpolls continued to be seen in the Region during the month, but were concentrated mainly in parts of Staffs and Worcs. With them was an Arctic Redpoll at Tittesworth during the first week, followed by four in the Wyre Forest during the second half, which proved very popular with visitors. On the 18th, following several days of calm foggy weather, the first of an unprecedented influx of Waxwings appeared, with many more arriving at the end of the month. From 21st onwards a bitterly cold east wind set in, with night temperatures down to -8°C and heavy snow falls on 26th/27th lying until the end of the month. Some large hard weather movements of Skylarks occurred during the latter period, including 1500 south over Bittell on 27th. 5

A small Influx of grebes included three Red-necked and single Black-necked and Slavonian Grebes, while two Firecrests were perhaps more surprising. The last day of the month witnessed a spectacular movement of Pink-footed Geese over Stoke-on- Trent, with at least 2470 recorded, presumably moving between the Lancashire coast and the Wash.

February remained cold and unsettled, with strong easterly winds frequently at night. Snow falls occurred on 2nd and from 5th-8th, followed by a thaw on 9th. Further snow falls arrived during the period 19th-22nd, being finally cleared by rain on 23rd; and some nice mild sunny days concluded the month. Much of the month was really a continuation of January, with Waxwings, winter thrushes, redpolls, and wildfowl being prominant again. Many flocks of finches and buntings resorted to feeding stations and weedy fields during the cold weather, and it was at one of the former near Halesowen that the first new Regional bird was found on 6th. This was a superb male Pine Bunting amongst a Yellowhammer flock which stayed until 20th and caused a mass twitch, even guest starring on local television news! The following day, saw a more southerly movement of Pink-footed Geese than usual including separate flocks of 200 over both Warwickshire and Sandwell Valley. A couple more Slavonian Grebes also arrived during the snow, while wildfowl concentrations included 2500 Wigeon and 81 Pintail at Bredon's Hardwick, and 1240 Teal at Blithfield. The milder weather of mid- month was less eventful, apart from two new Arctic Redpolls discovered amongst Mealies on Cannock Chase, and the arrival of a long-staying Shag in the Black Country. The final bout of snow produced more arrivals from 20th-25th, including single Black-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and Fulmar, three Red-necked Grebes, two more Arctic Redpolls, and rather incongruously a Little Egret, which stayed into April.

March remained unseasonably cold and unsettled, with occasional snow flurries but with some mild sunny days. The first half of the month was again dominated by Waxwings and Mealy Redpolls, with both reaching a peak in numbers as birds congregated before starting to return to Scandinavia. Some spectacular flocks of the former included 150 in Rugeley and 116 in West Bromwich, while among the latter at least four more Arctic Redpolls were found in Staffs. NeW birds were few but did include another Red-necked Grebe and two Whooper Swans, while the Staffs Woodlarks had arrived back at the usual site by 6th. A change to a south-easterly airflow from 12th-15th allowed a number of early summer migrants to filter into the Region. The first Chiffchaffs arrived on 12th, followed next day by six early Garganey at Draycote, with at least 12 Waxwings (Phil Jones) 6

others arriving before the end of the month. Also on 13th a pair of Avocets were welcome visitors to Bittell, while several early Common Sandpipers began to arrive. The 14th saw the first Little Ringed Plover and Northern Wheatear, with the first Sand Martin arriving next day when yet another Red-necked Grebe arrived, this time at Bartley. The first Black-tailed Godwits of spring began to move through on 17th, followed by the commencement of an early Little Gull passage from 18th. Winter thrushes peaked in mid-month as they began to return back north, including a flock of no fewer than 5072 Redwings counted at Defford. The first warm interlude of spring happened on 23rd-24th and this allowed the first major incursion of summer migrants, including the first Ring Ouzels, Swallows, House Martin and Black Redstart, as well as the earliest Whimbrel on record. From then until the end of the month the northward movement of both summer and winter migrants continued unabated, despite below average temperatures, with heavy passages of winter thrushes. Northern Wheatears and Meadow Pipits in particular. Amongst flocks of the latter, a number of Rock Pipits were found including three of the Scandinavian subspecies, while a couple of Water Pipits also featured. Willow Warblers began arriving from 28th, followed by the first Tree Pipits on 29th, the earliest ever Sedge Warbler on 30th and the first Yellow Wagtail on 31st, when three early Ospreys passed through. Other highlights of this period included a Brent Goose, another Avocet (the 202nd species for the Ladywalk reserve) and three more Arctic Redpolls.

Early April continued to be generally cool and unsettled, with overnight frosts and even occasional snow flurries up to mid-month. Cold northerlies alternated with warmer southerly winds during the first half of the month, allowing an early arrival of many summer migrants, including Common Whitethroat on 1st, Cuckoo and Common Redstart on 8th, Grasshopper and Wood Warblers on 11th, Hobby on 12th and Common Swift and Pied Flycatcher on 13th. Highlights during the first few days included a party of 13 Whooper Swans at Kingsbury on 1st, an early Marsh Harrier on 2nd and a pre-migratory congregation of 3050 Golden Plover in Warks on the same day. The rarer grebes featured prominantly in Worcs, with single pairs of Slavonian Grebe at Bredon's Hardwick on 3rd and Red-necked Grebe at Westwood on 7th, the latter replaced next day by a pair of Black-necked Grebes which stayed for ten days. A notable movement of 58 Common Scoter along with many gulls and terns occurred on 7th, but mainly in Warks. Among the latter were at least 20 Sandwich and the first few Common and Arctic Terns. The last of the winter's exceptional invasion of Smew left the Region on 9th, while two more Ospreys passed through next day. Two single Firecrests in Warks on 9th and 12th coincided with the main arrival of Willow Warblers, which peaked as usual around 10th. Four more Black-necked and a Red- necked Grebe appeared on 13th-14th, with the first of a good passage of Blue-headed Wagtails. From 16th-21 st and again from 24th-30th the weather really warmed up with south-westerly winds bringing temperatures of up to 20°C, and the main arrival of most summer migrants occurred bringing with them several scarce species. The first Whinchat and Reed Warbler appeared on 16th, together with another Osprey, while Northern Wheatears in Sandwell Valley peaked at 27. Next day saw the first Lesser Whitethroat and a Hoopoe, while a wagtail with a black head found in Sandwell Valley on the 18th was eventually confirmed as the Region's first Grey-headed Wagtail. An exciting period ensued on the 20th-22nd with the arrival of numerous migrants 7

including Nightingale and Garden Warbler, as well as White Stork, Marsh Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard, Stone-curlew and another Hoopoe. Outgoing winter visitors included the last Jack Snipe, Waxwing, Water Pipit, Meaty Redpoll and Brambling during the same period. A fall of 60 Sedge Warblers at Upton Warren on 21st was notable. The last week or so was quieter, with only an Osprey on 24th, the first Turtle Dove on 26th and Spotted Flycatcher on 28th, and a Willow Warbler showing strong characteristics of the Scandinavian race on 30th. The highlight was the Region's fifth Bonaparte's Gull at Blithfield from 27th-30th. After a promising end to April, the weather in May was disappointing with the first half of the month dominated by cold north-easterly winds bringing showers and occasional night frosts. Conditions were usually overcast with little sunshine occurring, and temperatures were the lowest for this month since 1902. Despite the rather unfavourable weather there was much of interest during the month, commencing with a passage of up to 375 Arctic Terns through the Region on the 1st and a moribund Gannet found on a playing field at Mancetter on 3rd. Other northern species continued to dominate the highlights, with two or three Ospreys, the first Red-necked Phalarope for seven years on 4th-5th, the last Redwing also on the 5th, a party of six Greenland Wheatears on 6th, and the last Fieldfare on 9th and Golden Plover on 10th. A Collared Pratincole found at Draycote on 12th-13th was a major crowd-puller, as it was only the second in the Region. During the next few days four more Black-necked Grebes and a late Whooper Swan appeared, while a late Bittern, two Little Egrets and five Spoonbills provided some class, with four of the latter gracing Sheepwash UP in the heart of the Black Country on 15th. A change to warmer south-westerlies on 17th brought three Marsh Harriers and a flurry of migrant waders and terns through the Region up to 22nd, when the good weather ended with a downpour. Numbers peaked on 19th, when 33 Black Terns (the only good day in a very poor spring for this species), six Avocets, many Sanderling, several Little Stints and Wood Sandpipers, a Temminck's Stint and a Curlew Sandpiper were recorded. The highlight however was the Region's first Melodious Warbler found in the Potteries on 20th, part of an unusual arrival in south-east England at that time. The rest of the month was rather unsettled and quiet, although the first Marsh Warbler and Nightjar had returned to their traditional haunts by the 23rd and 25th respectively.

From May 30th temperatures warmed up considerably with the introduction of a south- westerly or south-easterly airstream, and after a few showery days at the start of June, temperatures reached 30°C during 5th-9th. A few late Arctic-breeding waders continued to pass through during the first few days including Sanderling and Wood Sandpiper. During the warm spell, two White Storks, a singing Firecrest and two out of only three Quail recorded during the year were highlights. Up to six Black-necked Grebes arrived at a site in Staffs, and one pair subsequently bred successfully for the first time ever in the county. After a couple of days of overcast windy and rainy weather, very warm settled conditions began to set in again on 12th and lasted until the 28th, with temperatures peaking around 14th-19th. As is now usual for this month a few oddities continued to appear, including Honey Buzzard on 12th, a probable Montagu's Harrier on 16th and a Blue-headed Wagtail on 18th, but all eyes were focussed on Doxey Marsh on 20th when the Region's first River Warbler was found. This bird held territory there until well into July, and the presence of Staffs first Marsh Warbler for 43 8

years there from 21st-24th added extra excitement. Odd waders began to reappear in the Region from mid-month, including unusually early Curlew Sandpiper un 19lh and Whimbrel on 22nd, followed by a party of eight Black-tailed Godwits on 23rd and a Spotted Redshank from 24th.

July was dominated by west or south-westerly airstreams, with the first half of the month being generally warm but with increased rainfall and thunderstorms. Temperatures increased considerably in the second half with a peak of up to 33°C recorded on 21st-22nd. Much of the month was unusually quiet, with the first notable bird being Staffs first Alpine Swift at Belvide on 14th. An unseasonal Brent Goose stayed at Draycote for six days from 16th and an Osprey appeared at Fens Pools on 19lh. Up to 100 Curlew were roosting at Upton Warren during the month and a few Whimbrel began consorting with them on a regular basis from 21st. The final few days saw a superb summer-plumaged adult White-winged Black Tern at Draycote on 26th, followed by a long-staying Little Egret there next day, when an early Marsh Harrier was in Staffs.

Warm and unsettled weather continued to dominate during early August, with again an increase in rainfall recorded. The highlights of this period included a Spoonbill from 3rd-11th, an early passage of 37 Black Terns on 5th-6th, single Red-necked Grebe and Marsh Harrier on 8th and a couple of Ospreys. Temperatures considerably increased on 14th, and from 15th-20th it was very warm with a high of 31 °C, but this period was punctuated by violent thunderstoms. Cooler showery weather dominated the remainder of the month, with the return to a northerly airstream and occasional thunderstoms. The warm spell produced two Little Egrets in Worcs on 15th, with presumably the same two taking up residence along the R.BIythe in the West Midlands County from 16th onwards, providing this county with its first modern record. Some good concentrations of waders began to occur at the more favourable waters, including up to 19 Black-tailed Godwits and 34 Greenshank at Blithfield, while at least 19 Garganey were present across the Region. Other records of note during the second half of the month included three migrant Marsh Harriers, the first returning Golden Plover on 20th, a migrant Nightjar in Worcs on 21st, early lowland Merlins on 25th and 26th, and the now familiar Ferruginous Duck which returned to the Tame valley on the latter date. The undoubted highlight was the second ever (and first twitchable) Laughing Gull which frequented the Upton Warren area from 26th into early September.

Light northerlies in association with a high pressure system continued until September 13th, with often fairly warm though overcast conditions. The month started well with two Spotted Crakes seen on 1st-2nd. Passerine migration was prominant, with Whinchats peaking around 6th when 20 were present in Sandwell Valley alone, while Wryneck and late Wood and Grasshopper Warblers were also recorded. An Arctic Skua on 10th was followed by three Black-necked Grebes over the next few days. A window of warm calm clear weather occurred from 14th-16th as the anticyclone moved east towards Scandinavia and this produced an easterly airstream which lasted until 25th. An exciting period now ensued, commencing with a White-rumped Sandpiper at Bredon's Hardwick on 15th-16th and a Wryneck in the same county (Worcs) from 9

16th-19th. Little Stints began to trickle in from 14th but this turned to flood conditions as the easterlies set in, with numbers reaching a peak around 21st-25th. Birds appeared at a number of sites where previously it was unknown, while at the main waters some almost unbelievable concentrations occurred, including 103 at Blithfield, 75 at Draycote and 37 at Upton Warren. Smaller influxes of other waders at the same time included Curlew Sandpipers (28 at Draycote and 25 at Blithfield), Ruff (37 at Draycote) and Black-tailed Godwits. The rarest birds of this period were a Pectoral Sandpiper and Blue-winged Teal (the first confirmed Staffs record) at Blithfield, and the first really twitchable Yellow-browed Warbler which stayed for at least five days around the churchyard at Napton Hill, providing Warks with a long-hoped-for first record. There seemed to be a general changeover of summer and winter migrants during this short period with many of the former being seen for the last time, while the first Fieldfare appeared on 20th, Jack Snipe and Brambling on 21st and Redwing on 25th. Other notable records included a Black-necked and two Red-necked Grebes, a Bittern, two early Brent Geese and two more Arctic Skuas. From 26th until the end of the month the wind swung around to the south-west, bringing the Region's first Baird's Sandpiper to Draycote on 28th. Observers who missed this bird did not have long to wait for a second chance to add this species to their Regional list! An exceptional month ended with three very early Snow Buntings on the Malverns on 29th.

The same south-westerly airstream dominated much of October, with strong winds often bringing in heavy showers, although many days remained mild and sunny. The month opened in style with a Wilson's Phalarope at Draycote on 1st, only the third Regional record. On the 1st-2nd some heavy passages of Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and finches occurred across the Region, particularly along the southern hill scarps. Oddities included four more Snow Buntings in the Malverns and two Lapland Buntings over Sandwell Valley, both on 1st; a day which also included 500 Linnets migrating over Fens Pools. A large Coal Tit invasion was noted in south-east Warks during the first week coinciding with a national influx of continental birds, but how far this extended into the rest of the Region was not recorded. Other passerines included a couple more Snow Buntings, the last Reed Warbler on 1st, Common Redstart on 2nd and Whinchat on 5th, while next day the second ever Black- bellied Dipper was discovered at Shustoke. The strong south- westerlies brought in a Shag on 4th and a Sabine's Gull on 6th, both in Staffs. Two late Sandwich Terns appeared on 10th, with the first real Redwing influx of the autumn next day. A Slavonian Grebe on 12th, was followed on 13th by a Brent Goose and the last few Hobbies and Sand Martin, with the latest Willow Warbler next day. Sabine's Gull (Phil Jones) 10

Three Shore Larks at Upton Warren on 15th were a good find, with a late Wood Sandpiper on the same day and the first of three October Water Pipits appearing on 19th. Further last dates for summer migrants included House Martins on 16th, Yellow Wagtail on 19th, Little Ringed Plover on 23rd and Northern Wheatear on 24th. The main influx of Fieldfare at last began on 22nd, while a Black-necked Grebe in Sandwell Valley next day was the second of the year there. A Night Heron at Kingsbury from 24th into November was a nice sight but almost certainly of feral origin, while the first Bewick's Swan on 25th was followed by the first Whooper Swan on 30th. From 26th-28th the Region experienced strong winds and heavy rain as Britain was lashed by the tail of Hurricane Lily, and this produced several seabirds including a Manx Shearwater and a well-watched and photographed Little Auk, the latter on the canal at Great Haywood in Staffs. Also probably associated with this hurricane were very late Black Tern on 26th and Arctic Tern on 29th. The month ended with another Snow Bunting and a very late (31 st) Common Whitethroat. South-westerlies, often very strong, dominated November up until the 12th, but it was also often very mild with temperatures up to 18°C. The winds brought at least five Shags from 3rd onwards, together with probably three different Grey Phalaropes on 6th-7th. Higher numbers of Shore Larks and Snow Buntings were present on the east coast than for many years and this led predictably to more records in the Midlands, with the Malverns attracting one of the former (1st) and up to eight of the latter during the first half of the month and another Snow Bunting was in Warks at the same time. A late Swallow lingered in Worcs on 4th, while an early Iceland Gull appeared in the Draycote gull roost from 7th-9th. However the major prize of this period was the second Baird's Sandpiper of the year, present at Blithfield from 2nd- 7th. The wind dropped in intensity from 8th onwards, with pleasant sunny weather and occasional fogs predominant during the middle part of the month but with rapidly decreasing temperatures. The first heavy frost occurred on 10th with the first snowfalls of the winter on 18th/19th and night temperatures down to -11°C in places, and the cold weather lasted until 28th. The calm weather in mid-month produced a small influx of disorientated coastal species, perhaps due to fog. This was most apparent on and around 15th/16th, with about five Red- and Black-throated Divers, 73 Common Scoter, ten Red-breasted Mergansers, 15 Knot and a few Grey Plover turning up in the area, while four Brent Geese on 19th-20th were also perhaps involved. Other items of interest at this time included a pair of Hen Harriers at Brandon for a few days, single very late Ring Ouzel on 16th and Little Egret from 18th-21st, both in Staffs; several Water Pipits and two more Shore Larks. Another invasion of Waxwings on the east coast resulted in singles in Warks on 16th and the Black Country on 21st. Although there was much of interest in the Region, most observers were now perhaps settling down to the regular winter fare with no thought that any more Regional firsts would appearl However first an incredulous observer found and identified a Dusky Warbler on 16th at his local Black Country patch, and then on 23rd a Desert Wheatear was found on gravel heaps at Barton; both of which shows what a diligent patch-worker could turn up with regular watching. Incidently when news of the latter was released heavy snow storms thwarted many observers' attempts to get to the site! The month closed with an incredibly late Common Whitethroat in Worcs from 21st-28th (perhaps attempting to over-winter), and yet another Black-throated Diver. 11

The first half of December was unsettled with cool overcast conditions and some heavy rain brought in on the dominant westerly airstream. From 6th-12th there was much damp low-lying fog, which began to clear on 13th to give a few mild sunny days in mid-month. The month opened with three Whooper Swans returning to over-winter in Staffs and a party of seven Brent Geese flying over Sandwell Valley on 1 st, a day which also produced a Siberian Chiffchaff at Chasewater, and notable accumulations of 3500 Golden Plover on Wellesbourne Airfield and 2-2500 Jackdaws in a harvested maize field in Worcs. A few left-over Little Stints still lingered at the main reservoirs, while a small influx of Long-eared Owls resulted in two roosts of five and six discovered, both of which proved popular with visitors. Notable records on 3rd-4th included a Grey Phalarope at Westport and a Black Redstart in Worcs. Other scarce passerines included yet another Shore Lark which was well-watched at Chasewater from 14th into 1997 and a Twite at Kinsham found next day which also stayed into the new year, and was the first in the county for four years. Farmland finch flocks are always nice to see at this time of year, but few are as spectacular nowadays as the one containing up to 750 Greenfinches and 350 Brambling which frequented a linseed field in Worcs during the month. The first of another notable influx of Smew occurred on 9th, while flocks of Goosanders also began building up on the larger waters. A high pressure system which began to develop on 20th produced a bitterly cold east wind, which dominated the final days of 1996 and brought substantial snow falls to the Region on 27th and 30th/31st. Numbers of wildfowl substantially increased and with them came two separate Slavonian Grebes and a party of 11 Brent Geese on 21st, while single Red-necked Grebe and Firecrest in the Birmingham area on 27th and up to lour Water Pipits at Dosthill rounded off a superb year in the Region. J J Bowley 12

Classified Notes I he sequence ot species followed is that advocated by biraing world (Compiew List of the Birds of the Western Paiearctic 1991). The English names are those in popular use at the time of writing. Records of distinctive subspecies are listed seperately immediately 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 calender 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 13

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. A poor year. Warks The bird first seen at Earlswood Lakes in December 1995 remained until January 2nd JAC et ai. Staffs At Blithfield, the first-winter present in December 1995 remained until frozen out on February 3rd sev. obs. W Mid One at Bartley from November 15th-21st SPR. The first county record since the hard weather of early 1979 when three birds were seen.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica Rare winter visitor (6/10) An exceptional year, with six being the largest total since 1979 (which was also a cold winter) when up to 11 occurred. Staffs A first-winter at Westport on January 7th DK et ai. flew off north at dusk. At Blithfield, a moulting adult on November 16th-17th WJL et ai., was followed by a first-winter from November 22nd-December 4th ESC et al. W Mid An adult at Edgbaston Res on February 21st TCH, was remarkably followed by single birds at Bartley on November 15th SPR and again at Edgbaston Res (this time a first-winter) on 28th TCH et al. These were the first in the county since 1987.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Rare winter visitor (8/10) The coincidence in dates suggest that just one individual was involved. Worcs An immature at Larford from January 10th-18th CA, SMW et al. Staffs An immature at Pool Hall, Himley from January 20th-28th ESC et al.

Diver sp. W Mid One at Bartley on November 15th SPR in the company of a Red-throated and Black-throated Diver, was not specifically identified.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0 Colon/Lea Marsion 14 12 9 - - - - - 14 11 10 12 Dosthill 5 9 7 4 3 - - - - 15 17 - Draycote 3 1 - 2 1 - 1 4 17 e 3 3 Lower Moor 5 B 9 S 1 1 2 4 6 5 4 2 Pirton 2 - 3 9 7 6 9 33 41 32 3 1 Upton Warren - 1 4 6 6 5 10 15 20 3 2 - Westwood 3 2 2 6 4 - 2 7 13 7 3 -

Warks Well reported, with records from 33 localities, mostly in the north and east of • the county. Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote, Ashorne, Brandon, Jubilee Pools (three), Ladywalk (three), Lighthorne area (three), Lower Radbourn (at least three), Newfield Pool (two), Packington (at least two), Ryton-on-Dunsmore GP (two), Shuckburgh Park, Ufton Fields and 14

Winderton. Away from tabulated waters the best counts were of ten at Alvecote on January 14th, six at Newbold Quarry on February 3rd, seven at Abbots Salford on August 26th, nine at Blyth Hall on September 15th and ten at Napton Res on 22nd. Worcs Pairs bred at Beckford (two), Bishampton Vale Pool (three), Droitwich Canal, Grimley, Kinsham, Westwood (three) and Wilden (three). Failed to breed successfully at Upton Warren for the first time since 1988. Small numbers were also noted during the year at: Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick, British Camp Res, Clevelode, Cofton Res, Fladbury, Grimley, Hindlip, Larford, Oakley, Ribbes- ford, Standbatches, Strensham, Upton-upon-Severn, Wilden and Wolverley. Staffs Breeding pairs near Aqualate, and at Betley Mere (three-six), Kettlebrook Lake and Woodmill (three). May also have bred at Brookleys Lake where two juveniles were seen in August. Described as 'occasional' at Belvide and a 'scarce visitor' to Westport. W Mid Breeding pairs at: Bradnock's Marsh/R. Blythe area, Bumble Hole, Footshole, Meriden GP, Minworth SF (at least two), Oldbury (Birmingham Canal), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (five, rearing six broods), Stubber's Green and Willenhall (Neachells Branch Canal). Also present in the breeding season on Dudley No.2 Canal at Coombeswood. Other sites to hold small numbers, mainly during the winter months (with all maxima in February), were Bartley, Fens Pools (max. six), Kingswinford Park, Netherton Res (max. eight), Park Lime Pits and Valley Park (max. 21 along Staffs and Worcs Canal).

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 O N O AJvecote 5 22 16 - - 20 - - - 1 16 11 Coton/Lea Marston 16 15 12 5 9 6 - 10 13 19 16 - Dosthill/Kingsbury 35 41 65 49 54 - 11 - 8 8 23 5 Drayoote 70 40 40 25 25 43 40 45 41 48 67 125 BitteN 10 19 48 67 28 19 25 12 20 19 19 6 Bredon's Hardwiek 3 5 11 14 8 15 13 14 - 10 5 LarfonJ 2 2 7 4 2 4 1 3 2 10 13 7 Upton Warren 5 7 19 14 17 5 5 12 2 2 1 - Westwood 3 11 8 8 8 6 15 26 45 31 13 2 Aqualate 1 4 15 30 24 17 21 31 21 30 10 1 Belvide 20 17 26 6 11 4 10 - 6 20 27 26 Blilhfield 38 33 46 49 45 47 169 118 123 53 137 142 Chasewater 30 41 42 19 8 7 8 It 12 9 20 36 Westport 10 11 13 11 9 3 3 6 11 11 8 2

Warks Pairs bred at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote (two), Brandon (three), Chesterton (two-five), Compton Verney, Earlswood Lakes (five), Farnborough Park, Jubilee Pools, Ladywalk, Lower Radbourn, Packington (at least three), Ryton-on-Dunsmore GP and Wormleighton Res (three). Maxima from elsewhere included 19 at Coombe in January, 36 at Earlswood Lakes in June, with 15 at Seeswood Pool and 39 at Shustoke in September. Less usual locations included Newbold Quarry (Rugby) and the R.Avon near Bidford. Worcs Broods noted at: Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool (first breeding record), 15

Bittell (two), Bredon's Hardwick (three), Kinsham (two), Lower Moor (two) and Westwood (a record six broods, totalling 17 young). Away from tabulated sites, small numbers were noted at Arrow Valley Lake, Cotton Res, Grimley, Kyre Pool, Pirton, Trimpley Res, Upton-upon-Sevem, Wilden and Worcester. The count of 67 at Bittell on April 7th was a new county record GJM. Staffs Breeding pairs at: Betley Mere, Blithfield, Doxey (three), Hollybush Lake, Knypersley Res, Tlttesworth, Tixall Wide (two) and Trentham Gardens (two). W Mid Breeding pairs reported from: Brookvale Park (at least six), Edgbaston Res (five), Fens Pools (four), Netherton Res (two, the first in recent times), Sand- well Valley (at least five), Sheepwash UP (three), Stubber's Green, Sutton Park (pairs on Blackroot, Bracebridge, Powell's and Wyndley Pools), Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough. The largest assembly was at Edgbaston Res in the spring, where a notable 38 in March had risen to 41 by early April. Other peak counts included 15 in Sutton Park, 14 at Fens Pools, Sheepwash UP and Sandwell Valley, and 12 at Bartley.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant, rare though increasing in summer. An excellent year, with 15 being the best total since the hard weather of 1979 when up to 24 occurred. Warks A single bird stayed at Dosthill from February 25th-March 24th JAA, PDH, SMH, BLK et a!., while a moulting adult appeared at Alvecote on April 14th RC. A single juvenile on Canal Pool, Kingsbury on September 21st DHR was joined by a second on 23rd, wilh both staying to October 6th SMH, BLK et at. Worcs One at Westwood on January 30th-31st SMW et al. Amazingly, this first locality record was followed by the second a couple of months later; a pair in breeding plumage on April 7th JJH, GHP, SMW et al. Staffs Two at Gailey on January 31st ESC, were followed by two at Chasewater from February 24th-26th HD, LJD, SAR, with a different bird at the latter site on March 4th HD, LJD. The only later record concerned a bird at Tittesworth on August 8th BH. W Mid Singles at Bartley from March 15th-23rd WFP, SPR and on December 27th SC, ARD, SPR.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Ten was the best total since 1987, when 12 were reported. Warks A rather elusive bird at Draycote on December 21st REH, GJM, DJS et al. Worcs An excellent year began with a bird at Upton Warren on January 9th SC et al. A pair in summer plumage spent the day at Bredon's Hardwick on April 3rd SJH et al. and another was at Westwood on December 21st SMW et al. Staffs Single birds were present at Chasewater from January 27th-February 3rd FCG, ICW, MY et al., at Manor Park, Kings Bromley on February 5th ESC, Tittesworth on 7th-8th BH, JO, PAW, Belvide on 20th SJ, SN and at Blithfield on October 12th GJM, ICW, MY. 16

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor which has bred. Rare in winter. After an unsuccesful attempt in Warks in 1984, breeding was long antici- pated in the Region, finally coming to fruition this year at a site in Staffs. The only previous record of successful breeding came from Sutton Park in 1954. Warks Three summer-plumaged adults at Colon on April 13th SMH, BLK unfortunately did not stay, but another adult was at Dosthill on May 11th-12th JAA, PFA. Autumn produced a long-staying juvenile at Coton from September 10th-29th ARD, SMH et ai., with single winter-plumaged adults at Dosthill on September 12th BLK and 18th ARD, and at Draycote on 21st-22nd JJB, SMH. Worcs An unusual winter record was of one at Bredon's Hardwick from January 30th-February 3rd KH, REH et al. Westwood is often a favoured spring locality and this year was no exception, with a pair remaining there from April 8th-17th TMH, SMWetai, followed by a second pair from May 15th-21st JJH, SMW et al. The current owner's liking for waterski-ing thwarted any thought either pair may have had of staying to breed. In autumn, a juvenile was al Bittell on September 14th KGC, REH, SMWetai. Staffs A pair bred at one site for the first time in the county, where up to six adults were present during the breeding season. The nesting pair were first seen on June 3rd, subsequently raised two young and were last seen on August 4th ESC. Elsewhere, singles were at Gailey on April 14th ESC and at Sneyd Res on July 9th-10th ADB, the latter bird being apparently injured. W Mid An adult in summer plumage in Sandwell Valley on May 15th PS et al., was followed by a winter-plumaged bird there on October 23rd PMH.

Fulmar Fulmaris glacialis Rare vagrant (6/10). W Mid One at Bartley on February 22nd-23rd JHB, AN, SPR, was the first Regional record for that month.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Rare, mainly storm-driven autumn vagrant (7/10). Staffs One was found dead in a garden (and photographed) at Rolleston-on-Dove during late October WRW.

Gannet Sula bassana Scarce passage migrant and storm-driven vagrant. Warks An adult found by children on a playing field at Mancetter on May 3rd was taken into care by a Hartshill animal rescue centre next day per RCr, SMH. The woman who initially rescued it received hospital treatment from pecks on her face and it was only her glasses which reportedly saved her sight! The bird was apparently suffering from degenerative heart disease which eventually killed it seven weeks later. 17

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Bred Staffs in 1981-2. Monthly maxima at main sites: J r M A M. J J A 3 0 N D Coombe/Draycole 260 85 27 52 5 1 10 20 70 210 180 170 Kingsbury area 40 33 16 47 5 - 7 - 53 25 62 22 Ladywalk 18 10 14 - - 3 - - - - 19 48 Bittell 40 1 7 4 1 1 5 8 7 4 3 3 Bredon's Hardwick 68 70 34 30 14 6 2 36 20 39 41 41 Larford 22 2 6 17 2 - • - 1 30 10 Lower Moor 7 21 6 4 1 - 1 1 1 2 11 18 Upton Warren 56 4 6 4 2 - 2 2 4 2 19 7 Westwood 73 80 68 60 24 2 2 4 12 35 67 72 Aquatate 34 36 32 9 1 - 8 10 24 26 20 25 Belvide 75 25 5 11 1 - 4 5 20 36 41 32 Blilhfletd 37 28 25 7 16 14 33 75 65 70 53 23 Chasewaler 96 56 11 1 3 - 4 2 15 40 93 Westporl 9 - 1 33 1 1 6 1 .1 3 4 8 Warks There were few counts from the Coombe roost this year, though birds are increasingly spending the day there making the above totals (mainly from their feeding area at Draycote) rather on the low side. However it does seem that numbers there have peaked (at over 450 in 1995) and are now at a lower level. Away from the main sites small numbers were reported from all parts of the county, with many small waters now attracting feeding birds. A flock of 130 flying over Barford in late December was rather more unusual; where were they heading to? Worcs An increasing tendency for birds to remain well into the summer will not please local fishermen. Particularly common along the R. Severn, peak counts from sites along its length include eight at Grimley on July 20th, 30 south over Trimpley on October 1st, 12 at Clevelode on December 28th and 24 at Upton-upon-Severn on 30th. Small numbers also reported from Holt Fleet, Kinsham (nine on November 10th), Mount Segg, Pirton, Strensham, Throckmorton and Worcester. Staffs An interesting record was of a juvenile colour-ringed bird at Belvide on August 1st which had been hatched earlier in the summer at the Besthorpe (Notts) colony. This was the first sighting of a bird marked from that colony, which is sited about 106km north-east from Belvide. W Mid Fewer records received than last year, with almost all sightings restricted to birds in flight. Noted in nine areas, particularly at Fens Pools and Sandwell Valley, with 15 records each and a maximum of 11 over the latter site on December 29th. Otherwise six records came from Sheepwash UP and four from Valley Park, with odd birds also at Bartley, Clayhanger, Netherton Hill, Saltwells Wood and Stubber's Green.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A scarce visitor in all months, with occasional autumn and winter influxes. Warks The long-staying (since 1992) Draycote bird was last seen on February 18th GIG, PDH et al. In November, singles were seen at Brandon on 3rd BMCG, Kingsbury on 9th MAA, RJT and Napton Res on 11th and 20th JW. Staffs An adult or subadult was seen at Tittesworth on October 4th PAW, and two 18

immatures stayed at Blithfield from November 3rd-December 18th WJL et al. W Mid An immature was present at Sheepwash UP from February 17th-April 24th AGW, DW, with possibly the same bird flying low over Netherton Hill on April 27th CJT.

Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Warks The bird from Ladywalk in December 1995 visited Coton and Lea Marston Pools on January 1 st JAA, JJB before returning to Ladywalk where it was seen on January 3rd, 13th-15th and 18th SLC, PAH. In addition, the long- staying but elusive Brandon bird first seen in June 1995 was seen again on January 15th, February 9th and May 13th BMCG. Worcs One flew into the reedbed at Westwood on January 4lh REH, and may have remained undetected until February 27th when one gave a repeat per- formance JJH, TMH. One in a small reedbed next 1o the tiny Hen Pool at Upton Warren on September 22nd AW. 1985 Addendum Worcs One at Lower Moor from January 25th-29th RAP, was the only record in the Region for that year.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Rare vagrant, mainly in spring (4/10). Due to its dubious credentials this bird is not added to the Regional total, which stands at 13 records. Warks A triple colour-ringed immature seen at Kingsbury WP on various dates from October 24th-November 25th MAA, RJT et al. was thought to be of feral stock. Although its origins from the historic Edinburgh Zoo colony was apparently ruled out, there are now several other collections holding free- flying birds, notably the one at Great Witchingham in Norfolk.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta A rare though increasing visitor, mainly in spring and summer (5/10). Several long-staying birds were notable, as were the second and third Regional winter records. Probably at least seven different birds were involved in the following records and this elegant heron has now appeared in the Region in six consecutive years, although this is the first time that all four counties have featured. Warks A long-staying bird was at Draycote from July 27th-August 18th PAH et al. The two birds present in West Mids (see below) roosted at Packington Great Pool on August 23rd NPB. Worcs Two adults were present for a short time at Bredon's Hardwick on May 13th SJH et al., and two juveniles spent a few hours there on August 15th WFP et al. Six of the county's eight records have now come from this site. Staffs A single bird stayed at Cold Meece from February 25th-April 8th ESC et al., also visiting Copmere on March 3rd DWE, SME. One was at Alrewas GP from November 1Bth-21st ESC. 19

W Mid Two sub-adults found feeding along the R. Blythe near Hampton-in-Arden on August 16th NPB, SMH, remained in the area until at least 26th BLK. This was the first modern county record.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident. Usually after a cold winter a marked drop in breeding pairs is registered, but remarkably this year the reverse seems to have occurred. Warks There was a record 55 occupied nests in the Coombe heronry. Information from other regular sites was virtually nil, though three pairs bred in Chesterton Wood and a single pair attempted to nest at Packington. Maxima away from established heronries included 26 at Draycote in July, with 10-12 at Ches- terton Pools, Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk and Packington. Worcs No counts received from the main heronries. Maxima away from breeding sites were eight at Lower Moor on June 28th, 13 at Upton Warren on August 18th, 32 at Bittell on 20th and 18 at Westwood on October 27th. Staffs The best ever nesting returns for the county, with from 375-393 occupied nests estimated, including minima of 49 at Aqualate, 106 at Bagots Wood, one at Checkhill Bog, 12 at Eccleshall Castle Mere, 17 at Enville Park, 45 at Gailey, 58 in the Hamps Valley, nine at Hazelstrine, three south of Leek, 18 at Longsdon Wood, and 28 at both Pendeford Mill NR and Trentham Park. An interesting record was of a bird watched catching and eating two Mallard ducklings at Blithfield on May 8th. W Mid Monthly maxima at main sites: J F M A M J J A S O N • Parti Lime Pits 2 5 2 2 2 - 2 2 5 - 3 Sandwell Valley 15 8 6 3 4 7 17 4 20 6 7 12

No count from the Berkswell colony, but a pair bred successfully in Sandwell Valley possibly for the first time, raising three young. Away from tabulated sites the largest congregation was 12 at Sheepwash UP in August, with up to three also noted at 15 other widespread locations. Birds were observed sitting on suburban house roofs in Aldridge and Dorridge.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Very rare vagrant (4/10). The eighth and ninth Regional records of an unmistakable bird which appears to be becoming more frequent, although these two records are the first in Warks since 1896! Warks An adult roosted in a tree at Leamington Hastings on the evening of April 20th and was seen early next morning from nearby Draycote DH, JH, PH et at. This bird carried a ring and may have been an escape or from European feral colonies (eg. in Belgium). Two were seen flying north between Coombe and Ansty on June 6th DGP.

Spoonbill PJatalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (6/10). Warks An adult at Dosthill from May 13th-16th JAA, SMH et al. Also in nearby Staffs. 20

Staffs An adult in the Dosthill north and Drayton Bassett GP '.Je*** area from May 12th- 15th JAA, BLK et al. was also seen in the adjacent part of Warks. An immature stayed at Blithfield from August 3rd-11th ESC et al. W Mid Four splendid adults were present at jcr — Sheepwash UP for a Spoonbill (John Teasdale) few hours on May 15th AGW, DW.

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 D Alvecote 5 6 1 - - - 25 - - 34 9 14 Coton 45 15 6 - 16 - 112 100 - 31 73 51 Dosthill/Kingsbury 95 70 90 - 61 - - 105 137 129 101 Draycote 28 - - 7 17 68 96 122 105 114 92 108 Bredon's Hardwick 40 - 17 9 6 30 38 - - 1 _ - Pirton 7 6 5 4 5 15 12 19 36 31 12 12 Westwood 4 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 12 4 2 6 Aqualate 10 1 3 7 3 3 9 8 9 7 - - Barton GP 17 19 19 11 20 18 15 28 29 27 8 8 Belvide 6 3 6 13 41 81 95 90 94 53 6 6 Blithfield - - - 4 34 80 112 120 86 69 2 6 Borrowpit 6 - 4 24 2 - 5 10 - - 1 4 Branston 9 4 5 7 5 7 7 15 7 9 10 11 Chasewater 59 49 27 31 36 56 69 73 60 53 31 28 Croxall GP 16 6 25 98 29 30 48 54 34 27 34 55 Elford GP 22 162 191 30 29 54 99 79 63 35 42 61 Kettlebrook Lake 14 14 8 6 12 12 12 8 14 5 6 6 Kings Bromley 2 - 4 3 2 2 - 5 5 2 14 33 Tamworlh (R.Anker) 44 - 48 48 45 - 56 34 - - 52 43 Westporl 44 45 38 57 57 60 67 57 42 23 17 32 Netherton Res 11 6 6 2 2 10 10 4 4 5 4 9 Sandwell Valley 22 22 21 27 15 20 21 11 8 10 13 13

Warks Under-recorded as a breeding species, with successful pairs only reported from: Ashorne, Brandon, Jubilee Pools, Ladywalk, Long Itchington, Lower Radbourn, Napton Res, The Somers and Wormleighton Res. Non-breeding flocks continue to grow, with the main concentrations in the Tame valley, Draycote and on the R.Avon at Stratford, where numbers peaked at a record 152 on December 29th. Conversely Alvecote seems to be becoming less attractive. Good numbers were also reported from Shustoke during the autumn and early winter, with a peak of 49 on December 17th; whilst counts of 15-20 also came from Brandon, Chesterton, Lower Radbourn, Napton Res and Seeswood Pool. 21

Worcs Breeding only reported at Ashmoor Common, Bishampton Vale Pool, Lower Moor and Westwood. Very tew significant counts received this year, and away from tabulated sites only reported in small numbers at Bittell, Cofton Res, Eckington, Grimley, Holt, Larford, Lower Moor (14 on June 1st), Oakley, Trimpley, Upton Warren and along the Worcester and Birmingham Canal near Tlbberton. Staffs Breeding pairs at: Aqualate, Belvide, Betley Mere, Doxey (four), Elford, Gailey, Hanley Festival Park and Kettlebrook Lake. Away from tabulated sites, Whitemoor Hay held a very large concentration early in the year, which built up from 166 on February 4th to 200 on 17th, before declining to 170 on March 2nd. Rickerscote attracted 21 to floodwater on November 30th. At Chasewater a total of 125 different colour-ringed birds were identified during the year. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from: Bilston (Grapes Pool), Bumble Hole, Coombes- wood (Dudley No.2 Canal), Fens Pools, near Netherton Hill (Dudley Canal), Red House Park, Sandwell Valley (three), Sheepwash UP (two, but all the young died or disappeared quickly), Stubber's Green, Sutton Park (Longmoor and Wyndley Pools), Willenhall (Neachells Branch Canal) and Wyken Slough. Maxima away from tabulated waters included eight in the Valley Park area in February, with 15 at Fens Pools and 26 at Sheepwash UP in December, the latter being a record count from that water. Three birds were found dead at Sheepwash UP during the February cold spell.

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianus Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Recently declining. Average: October 22nd (7) - March 25th (7) Warks During early January there were six at Draycote on 1st followed by up to 17 next day and six again on 6th. At Dosthill eight were seen on January 4th, with six again on 6th. The final records of the first quarter came in March, with a single bird at BAD Kineton on 5th-6th, 11 over Brandon on 17th and a party of 14 at Draycote on 19th. The first autumn bird arrived at Draycote on October 30th, with probably the same adult reported from here fairly regularly up to the end of the year; but with 16 (including one sporting a blue Finnish neck collar) on December 21st, three on 26th and . two on 31st. Also in December, three were seen at Dosthill on 21st and ten flew south-west over Fenny Compton on 31st. Worcs After two parties totalling 18 individuals flew south over Upton Warren on January 14th, single adults visited Wilden on 18th and Bredon's Hardwick from Feb 1st-11th, with two-three there from 15th to March 4th and parties of 20 on February 17th and 21 on March 24th. In the second winter period there were singles at Westwood on November 15th, flying north over Upton Warren on 17th and at Bredon's Hardwick on December 8th, followed by four there on 14th. Staffs At the start of the year what presumably was the same herd (first seen in December 1995) ranged the area around Alrewas, Croxall and Whitemoor Hay up to late March, with monthly maxima of 40 on January 1st, 43 on February 2nd and 30 on March 23rd. Also during January, eight were seen in 22

the Drayton Bassett-Fisher's Mill area on 4th and 6th, 16 were present at Penkridge (visiting Belvide and Gailey on 14th and Belvide again on 18th), and four flew over Chasewater on 14th (one of which sported a blue neck collar). Three were seen at both Barton and Belvide on March 10th. In autumn, the first returning bird visited Belvide on October 25th followed by another there on November 10th. Six were at Blithfield on November 16th, five at Belvide on 24th, singles both there and at Copmere on December 14th, five at the R.Trent/Tame confluence on 24th, six at nearby Catholme on 26th and 28th, and finally, 14 back at Whitemoor Hay on 29th.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant, mainly in Staffs. Also a recent feral visitor. Warks A splendid party of 13 adults were seen and photographed at Hemlingford Water, Kingsbury on April 1st BLK. Worcs No wild birds, but the pinioned pair present at Beckford for several years successfully reared a cygnet. Staffs In spring, two adults were on fields in the Barton GP/Catholme area from March 9th-April 5th DJA, GIG, PDH et al., followed by another at Drayton Bassett on May 14th JAA. Autumn adults visited Blithfield on October 30th ESC, November 10th (two) ESC etal. and 12th GJM, and Tittesworth on 18th (two) PPK. Three adults were back in the Catholme/Croxall area from December 1st-31st ICW, MY etal. W Mid A bird at Fens Pools from January 3rd-March 13th was found dead the following day and was reported to have come from Cotwall End NR PWG.

Bean Goose Anser fabalis Rare winter visitor (7/10). Although seen fairly frequently in recent years, this was in fact only the 14th Regional record this century. Warks An adult of the tundra race A. f. rossicus was at Draycote on January 1 st-2nd JFCJ et al. Only the fourth county record this century, the last one was at Bramcote in 1990.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor, but normally rare south of Staffs. Also a scarce feral visitor. Some spectacular flocks were observed passing over the Region during the cold weather early in the year. Warks A flock of 200 flying south-west low over Fenny Compton on February 7th JJB, were seen to veer to the north-west on approaching the Dassett Hills, and were then later watched flying over Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth PFA still pursuing a north-westerly course. This was the largest confirmed flock ever to be reported in the county and presumably involved disorientated Norfolk birds. All other records referred to probable feral birds usually consorting with Canada or Greylag Geese, with singles at Earlswood on January 2nd, Dost- hill on March 24th and 31st, Bermuda on May 9th and Dosthill again on December 27th. 23

Worcs Six were at Bredon's Hardwick from January 25th-27th SJH et al. Staffs A huge north-west movement of Pinkfeet was noted over Stoke-on-Trent on January 31st WJL. The first skeins appeared at 0900 hrs when 240 were seen over Westport, followed at 1100 hrs by the main movement of 2230 counted over Stoke. These birds were presumably of Norfolk origin. Elsewhere early in the year, there were two at Blithfield on February 2nd and eight on 4th ESC, with singles in the Alrewas-Whitemoor Hay area from January 1st-10th sev. obs., Doxey on 6th FCG, Kingswood on 21st MY, Belvide on 27th sev. obs., Doxey again on February 12th DMBG and in the Dosthill north/Drayton Bassett area on 18th JAA, MAA and March 15th MAA. Some of these may have been of feral origin, as was presumably one at Belvide from April 28th-May 20th. The only autumn records were of five at Blithfield on November 18th JCT and one there from 27th-December 1st ESC. W Mid A hard weather movement of wild birds included 15 flying north-west over Fens Pools on February 3rd SE, BMM, an impressive flock of 200 moving west over Sandwell Valley on 7th TCH, four over Junction 1 of the M5 (West Bromwich) on 8th SAR and four west over Sandwell Valley on March 24th SVB. In addition, the feral bird in Sandwell Valley from December 1995 remained until May 19th, with probably the same bird visiting Sheepwash UP on January 14th.

Grey Goose sp. Anser sp. Worcs One over Abberton on January 27th GHP, and a flock of 45 over Bibby's Hollow on February 7th GJM, JHS, were very probably Pink-feet but the views were too distant for confirmation. Staffs A flock of 56 flying north-west over Chasewater on October 5th were thought to be Pinkfeet.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor. Warks The party of 12 at Draycote from 1995 remained until January 7th, with 11 reluming on 14th JJB, REH, JWetal. An adult and immature were at Alvecote on dates from January 3rd-14th, with the latter staying until at least February 11th ARD. Another immature which appeared at Brandon on January 10th remaining until May 17th BMCG, may have initially been of wild origin. On January 6th a single was seen at Dosthill and a flock of 27 flew over Coton/ Lea Marston before landing in fields at Whitacre Heath PDH. On January 18th 25 flew north-east over Fenny Compton JJB, 16 briefly visited Dosthill on 20th before heading south PDH et al. and ten flew over Radway on February 7th PD. Worcs All this year's records came from the lower Avon Valley. At Bredon's Hard- wick, four from January 28th-31st SJH et al. were presumably wild birds, as were two adults there on November 30th GS. However, an adult at Lower Moor on December 24th RAP consorted with Canada Geese, while another at Bredon's Hardwick on 26th was colour-ringed on both legs, though it was joined by another adult on 27th-28th SMW et al. 24

Staffs The flock of 24 at Whitemoor Hay at the end of 1995 remained between here and Alrewas until January 13th sev. obs. The same area again attacted birds in December, with nine on 22nd ICW, MY increasing to ten from 24th-31st DJA et al. Elsewhere in the county there were two at Doxey on January 19th SAR, 17 at Dosthill north on 20th MAA, three at Tittesworth on 21st NC, with singles at Blithfield on February 4th ESC and at Dosthill again on March 15th MAA.

Greylag Goose Anser anser Frequent feral resident, mainly in the northern half of Warks but increasing and bpibictdiiiy elsewheiv. Warks Five pairs reared 31 young at Brandon and four pairs had 20 young at The Somers, while a pair was again unsuccessful at Ladywalk. The feral population continues to grow, particularly in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area where there were record counts of 171 on November 9th and 170 on December 23rd. Maxima from the other main waters were similar to last year, with 120 at Ladywalk, 85 at Brandon and 60 at Coombe, while up to 20 were seen at several other sites in the north of the county. Further south there were reports of up to ten at BAD Kineton, Chesterton, Draycote, Earlswood, Fenny Compton, Radway, Ryton Pool and Stratford-upon-Avon. Worcs One at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 5th and 27th was followed by a party of seven at Fladbury on February 3rd, which then visited Kempsey Lower Ham on 17th. One was at Bewdley on February 4th, while at Bredon's Hardwick there were two on 7th-8th, one on 10th and two again on March 21st and 28th, with a final single on April 14th. Four were at Upton Warren on April 11th, with two on 13th and 20th, and one at Larford on the latter date. Later in the year the only records involved seven at Upton Warren on June 19th, up to two at Lower Moor on ten dates from July 29th-November 2nd, and three at Bredon's Hardwick on October 19th and November 5th. Staffs Presumably bred again in Trentham Park where 34 were counted on July 9th. Four were seen at Pendeford Mill NR on April 27th, followed by a pair with three goslings on May 27th indicating local breeding. Otherwise small numbers during the year on several waters, including counts of six on July 21st, 15 on August 18th, four on September 15th and 11 on December 8th at Branston WP; four at Blithfield from August 18th to the end of the year, and six at Copmere on December 15th. Up to three also noted at Aqualate, Belvide, Chasewater and Westport. WMid One pair bred in Sandwell Valley but had lost all four young by late June. Otherwise, this pair and last year's youngster were resident throughout the year in the valley but were joined by a further five on April 3rd and by two from 5th-7th. The only other records involved two over Dunstall Park on April 26th, two over nearby Compton Park on May 5th, one over Dunstall Park again on 8th, five on the lake there on August 14th and a final bird over the adjacent Valley Park on 15th.

Snow Goose Branta caerulescens Scarce feral visitor. Worcs A pair were seen at Westwood on April 13th and at Pirton on 21 st, followed by 25

one at the latter locality on June 14th, the pair again on July 21st and a single on October 13th. Further singles appeared at Lower Moor on several dates from August 21 st-November 23rd, and at Larford on September 14th, over Upton Warren on 17th and on the R. Avon at Evesham on December 13th. Staffs A single bird at Belvide from May 25th-June 2nd and again on September 14th. W Mid One flew over Valley Park with Canada Geese on March 5th, whilst seven were on nearby Dunstall Park Lake on August 7th, with two remaining next day.

Canada Goose Branta canadensis Common and increasing feral resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A S O N D Alvecote 126 43 62 - - 40 - - - 2 95 228 Brandon 54 87 117 52 85 145 74 356 27 6 40 83 Chesterton 300 210 215 139 248 203 176 260 270 83 111 - Dosthill/Kingsbury 500 302 188 335 130 - 119 - 180 539 426 540 Draycote 160 85 25 40 5 10 - 347 1044 600 100 230 Bittell - 2 2 19 26 29 63 350 100 46 126 75 Larford - 55 62 - 40 69 - - 148 55 59 27 Lower Moor 165 63 36 21 15 35 - 193 300 325 154 150 Pirton 128 92 76 46 71 362 375 244 239 119 17 19 Upton Warren 132 76 57 60 106 57 50 123 49 150 70 82 Westwood 400 - - 17 5 35 26 82 439 450 164 101 Aqualale 5 8 12 27 33 17 51 181 105 1 38 40 Barton GP 127 73 22 29 22 88 125 150 423 89 100 Belvide 133 144 72 56 100 164 183 147 288 330 195 139 Blilhfield 25 - 5 4 3 7 55 600 916 594 390 496 Branston WP 42 19 51 66 44 215 281 346 152 49 10 3 Chasewater 33 29 20 12 4 25 39 73 334 343 6 106 Croiall GP 421 327 275 97 128 296 162 376 91 166 423 414 Doxey 243 165 87 52 43 57 69 73 - 323 197 291 Ellord GP 14 139 118 98 182 66 17 12 31 3 17 Kings Bromley 378 375 220 172 116 423 476 614 726 37 123 403 Westport 35 58 40 28 32 53 42 70 68 41 50 56 Nelherton Res 36 49 10 14 19 20 20 35 6 39 73 57 Sandwell Valley 300 200 203 209 205 356 432 306 217 - 173 250 Warks Breeding widely reported, with a maximum of ten broods at Chesterton. Away from tabulated waters there were site maxima of 301 at Coombe and 400 at Coton in January, 110 at Ryton Pool in April, 100 at Ladywalk in July, 155 at Seeswood Pool in August, 257 at Compton Verney, 155 at Shustoke and 145 at Wormleighton Res in September, and 325 on the R.Avon at Stratford in October. Worcs Breeding pairs reported at: Abberton, Aston Mill, Beckford, Bittell, Conderton Pool, Dodford, Larford, Lower Moor and Wilden. Flocks were reported at several sites outside the breeding season, with maxima of 124 at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 5th, 250 at Bredon's Hardwick on 29th, 440 at Wilden on August 11th, 430 at Kinsham on 26th, 40 feeding on crops on Bredon Hill on October 19th, 87 at Kyre Pool on November 3rd and 150 at Fladbury on December 31st. Staffs Few breeding records received, with the largest concentration being 18 pairs at Doxey. Away from tabulated sites, maxima included 200 at Dosthill north in January, 77 at Trentham Park in April, 62 at Gailey in June, 105 at Borrowpil in July, 60 at Alton Towers in August and 91 at Rudyard in September. 26

W Mid Breeding pairs recorded only from: Fens Pools (only one), Minworth SF (at least five), Park Lime Pits (two, with a third unsuccessful), Sandwell Valley and Stubber's Green. Numbers at Netherton Res are said to have increased dramatically in recent years. Elsewhere high counts included 300 at Sheep- wash UP in January, 106 on Longmoor Pool, Sutton Park in February, 370 at Bartley and 140 on Dunstall Park Lake in August, 160 at Stubber's Green and 335 in Kingswinford Park in October, and 75 on Powells Pool, Sutton Park in December.

Canada Goose races Warks A Cackling Goose B. c. minima was at Alvecote on June 9th. Worcs Single birds of an unidentified small race were seen at Bredon's Hardwick in January and April, Larford in September, Upton Warren and Westwood in October, and at Tardebigge and Upton Warren again in December. Staffs Small race birds were at Croxall on February 11th and Blithfield on December 6th.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon feral visitor. Presumably most of the following records were of feral origin. Warks Records included one at Seeswood Pool on January 6th, two-three at Dosthill on 10th, one there on February 11th and two at Ladywalk on 25th, with one at Brandon on May 26th. In the south-east a single bird visited BAD Kineton and Chesterton on November 23rd, BAD Kineton again on 26th and Compton Vemey on December 8th, 15th and 22nd. Finally, two were seen at both Dosthill on December 23rd and Draycote on 30th. Worcs Three were at Bredon's Hardwick on January 6th, with singles there from 26th-February 3rd, March 22nd, April 14th, with two on 23rd and one on May 7th. A single was at Pirton on April 21st, with perhaps the same bird flying north over Defford on 24th, and then a pair at Upton Warren from April 28th- May 20th. Singles visited Kinsham from August 7th-10th, and Beckford on August 10th and December 28th. Finally, two (an adult and juvenile) were at Lower Moor on September 25th and November 2nd, with one feeding on crops with Canada Geese on Bredon Hill on October 19th, and another at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 4th. Staffs Parties of 11 at Croxall on January 6th, ten at Blithfield on February 3rd and nine at Kings Bromley on 18th early in the year, were followed by ten again at Blithfield on November 5th and 10th, ten at Kings Bromley on 17th, and six again at Blithfield from December 6th-15th; all possibly involving the same group of birds. Elsewhere, reports came from Branston WP, one on August 9th; Dosthill north, two on January 10th and one on February 2nd; Tlttes- worth, one from February 15th-24th, four on April 30th, two on July 7th, up to three from August 11th-23rd, and one or two from October 12th-December 1st; and Westport, singles on April 21st, May 19th, June 16th, July 21st and August 18th. W Mid Singles were resident throughout the year at both Edgbaston Park and Sand- well Valley, the latter being paired with a Canada Goose during the breeding 27

season. There were also records of single birds at Sheepwash UP on January 1st-3rd, February 17th and 19th, and on March 3rd; and in the Dun- stall Park/Valley Park area on January 2nd, March 31st, and again on April 2nd-3rd. One was present in the Meriden GP area on several dates in August, with two on 28th.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Virtually all records subspecifically identified tend to be of the dark-bellied race B. b. bemicla. Warks Single birds at Draycote from March 28th-31st DB et al. and from July 16th- 21 si JFCJ etal. The latter was reported to be in poor condition and given the unusual time of year must be of suspect origin. Later in the year, two were seen at Dosthill on September 21st DHR, while a party of 11 tarried there on December 21st SMH. Worcs One paid a brief visit to Upton Warren on October 13th MIW. Staffs A party of two adults and two immatures were at Westport on November 19th- 20th WJL. W Mid Seven flew low over Sandwell Valley on December 1 st DC. 1992 Addendum Warks One at Draycote on October 4th per JJB.

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis Very rare feral visitor (1/10). Only the third Regional record and although all were presumably escaped birds, it is interesting to note that all three arrived within the period of a month; during August 31st-September 29th. Worcs A bird was at Bredon's Hardwick from September 15th-November 8th. Although unringed, it usually consorted with Mallard and so was presumably of captive origin.

Anser/Branta hybrids Canada x Greylag Goose Warks One at Draycote on October 1 st.

Canada x Barnacle Goose Warks One at Chesterton on June 26th and August 3rd. Worcs One at Lower Moor on September 16th. W Mid One present throughout the year in Sandwell Valley.

Bar-headed x Canada Goose Worcs One at Bredon's Hardwick on January 30th.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Scarce feral visitor or escape. W Mid One flew north over Fens Pools on April 13th, with presumably the same bird present for a few minutes the following day before leaving to the east. 28

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Scarce feral visitor and possible rare vagrant. Warks The usual male was present in the Coton, Dosthill and Middleton areas on dates from March 2nd-July 6th SMH, BLK et al. and again at Dosthill on December 14th SMH. At times during June and July it was seen accompanying a brood of Shelduck and their parents. Worcs A female circled Upton Warren on October 23rd TMH. Staffs The bird at Blithfield present since 1995 remained there until March 17th, returning from May 29th-July 3rd and again, in company with a second bird, from August 20th-September 5th, with the original remaining until at least December 24th ESC et al. From September 29th it was usually in company with a Paradise Shelduck T. variegata. In addition the Warks Dosthill bird was also frequently seen on the Staffs side of the county boundary. W Mid A female at Stubber's Green from November 4th-13th GKN.

Tadorna hybrid Warks A male Shelduck showing features of both Shelduck and Ruddy Shelduck (or possibly of Australian Shelduck T. tadornoides) was at Middleton from April 28th-May 6th JAA, NDG. Size of Ruddy Shelduck but with bottle green head and grey bill with basal knob. White neck ring separates head from rufous breast. Also rufous fore and hind flanks seperated by white mid flanks, with black stripe along centre of belly. Dark scapulars, contrasting with white wing coverts, green secondaries and blackish primaries. Black tail intermediate in extent between Shelduck and Ruddy Shelduck. Staffs The above bird was also seen at Drayton Bassett on May 5th, with presumably the same bird at Blithfield on 16th.

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 Alvecole 19 29 17 11 13 8 - - 10 - - - Draycole 2 3 2 6 12 1 - 6 - - 7 4 Kingsbury area 7 7 15 15 12 11 28 11 - - 1 4 Bitted 1 1 1 8 - 4 - 1 - - Bredon's Hardwick 1 1 3 7 4 - - 14 - - 1 Upton Warren 2 - 2 1 3 - - 5 2 5 3 3 Westwood 1 3 2 2 3 1 Aqualate - - B 6 10 6 - - - - 11 - Airewas GP 3 7 15 9 ------Barton GP 8 11 17 24 34 22 13 6 - 1 - Belvide 1 2 4 6 - - 16 3 - 1 2 Blithfield 8 2 1 4 2 3 - 7 23 18 14 - Branston WP 1 4 3 12 2 7 2 11 - - 4 - Chasewater - - 2 4 - - - 2 - 2 - Croxall GP 6 10 16 11 B 6 1 1 3 - - - Kings Bromley - - 2 2 4 Tittesworth - 3 1 - - 1 - - 1 - 15 -

Warks Single broods at Alvecote (five young), Dosthill (15 young), Kingsbury WP (ten young) and Middleton (ten young). No breeding again at Ladywalk, 29

where maxima of 12 in May and 11 in June. Up to five in the winter months at Shustoke and more reports from Brandon than usual, with four on January 29th and up to seven in March the best counts. Elsewhere, there were singles at BAD Kineton on March 4th, Salford Priors GP on August 26th and Earls- wood Lakes on December 26th. Worcs Away from tabulated waters there was one at Grimley on May 19th, and a series of juveniles at Wilden; with one on August 10th-11th, two on Septem- ber 12th, increasing to three by 15th, and one remaining to 22nd. Staffs Breeding pairs at Aqualate, Barton GP and Branston WP. Away from tabulated waters it was present in the Drayton Bassett/Dosthill north area, and at: Clay Mills, one on January 19th; Denstone, one on May 4th; Doxey, three on January 23rd and four on October 7th and 14th, a poor showing there; Elford, one on January 21st and two on April 21st; JCB Pools (Rocester), three on January 25th; and Westport, three on both February 22nd and March 6th. W Mid A pair in Sandwell Valley from February 12th-16th was followed by a singleton from March 26th-April 1st, with two on April 13th and five on October 28th. Also recorded at Bartley, with one on February 28th and five on November 11th; Meriden GP, with two on May 12th; Edgbaston Res, with an immature present from October to the end of the year (although often missing for several days); and Fens Pools, with three on November 16th.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon but increasing feral resident and visitor. Warks A good series of records from Draycote involved a male on February 3rd, a female on September 15th and single males on October 3rd-4th, November 17th and 25th, and December 8th-9th. A female at Earlswood on May 16th was followed by a male on 20th, with another at Brandon from October 27th- November 3rd and a female at Chesterton on November 23rd. Worcs A pair bred successfully at Overbury. Casual sightings began with three (two males) on the R.Severn at Bewdley and Trimpley from January 15th-February 18th, with a female there on September 1st. A pair were at Kinsham from March 20th-24th, with singles on April 14th, July 29th and August 27th. A pair frequented the Dowles Brook from April 5th-May 15th, the female then being seen at a garden pond by the river at Bewdley until the end of May. Single males were at Broadway GP on April 19th and Aston Mill Pit from April 25th- May 23rd, with five males there on May 22nd. A pair were at Eckington on May 4th, with six at Beckford on July 6th and a male there on November 6th. Finally, a female was on the Worcester Canal, south of Dunhampstead on October 20th. Staffs The Trentham Park colony held a peak of 19 on January 10th, March 27th and April 11th. Other records included a female at Westport on September 30th, five at Chillington on October 13th, a single at Blithfield on November 4th and 23rd, and a female at Belvide on November 21st with a male there on December 21st-22nd. W Mid A female in Red House Park on September 10th was possibly the same bird noted at Park Hall Pool, south Walsall on October 30th. 30

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 Alvecote 68 70 30 1 - - - 3 16 7 - 6 Coton 257 214 120 - 1 - - - 220 104 219 230 DosthiU/Kingsbury 700 800 700 40 1 - - - 285 1000 1100 1205 Draycote 1500 400 550 55 1 - - 8 800 1005 1016 1700 Ladywalk 450 275 93 69 - - 1 40 124 160 Shustoke 200 - 66 1 2 75 148 Bishampton Vale Pool 9 2 1 18 23 16 8 bitten y US 4U 4 - - - 1 it 4 Bredon's Hardwick 2070 2500 2000 400 - - - 5 75 400 707 1908 Lower Moor 41 93 82 6 3 4 7 Pirton Pool 41 8 19 19 97 41 37 Upton Warren 14 12 - 1 - - - 11 5 7 14 Westwood 77 83 83 15 - - - - 17 40 51 71 Aqualate 98 30 2 ------113 Barton GP 184 393 233 - - - 1 - 2 64 215 198 BeKride 194 240 223 30 2 - - 4 64 46 41 131 Blithfield 479 917 1240 260 3 6 11 4 167 320 411 809 Croxall GP 1067 768 780 5 1 - - - 54 71 396 327 Eltord GP - 40 120 5 86 273 149 Kings Bromley 179 206 86 2 - 3 9 Tlttesworth 180 400 208 89 - - - - 50 50 270 250 Sandwell Valley 30 51 50 20 - - - - 23 52 62 64

Warks Some good counts from other waters included maxima of 195 at Blyth Hall in January, 186 at Jubilee Pools in February, 53 at Brandon and 135 at Charle- cote in March, 55 at Baginton Lagoons in October, 107 at Lower Radbourn in November and 101 at Abbots Salford in December. Less than 20 were also present at BAD Kineton, Brailes, Chesterton, Earlswood, Famborough, Knightcote, Napton Res, Wilmcote and Wormleighton Res. A male at Bran- don on June 17th-19th was unseasonal. Worcs Other maxima included 40 at Chateau Impney on March 14th, 44 at Grimley on 17th, 38 at Larford on November 15th and 21 at Upton-upon-Severn on December 30th, while small numbers were also recorded at Cotton Res, Kinsham, Weatheroak Hill and Wilden. Staffs Smaller numbers also recorded from: Betley Mere, Branston WP, Chase- water, Chillington, Copmere, Doxey, Hill Ridware, Kingswood, Little Wyrley, Rickerscote, Rudyard and Westport. W Mid Elsewhere, up to four were present at Bartley, Netherton Res, Sheepwash UP and Stubber's Green during January-February. After three at Fens Pools on August 7th, up to four were again present from September- December at Bartley (max. 14 on November 14th), Dunstall Park Lake (a pair on September 20th were the first for the site), Fens Pools, Netherton Res (max. eight on November 14th), Sheepwash UP, Stubber's Green and Wyken Slough. In addition up to 51 were on Perry Barr Park Lake in December, an impressive total and no doubt displaced birds from Sandwell Valley.

Gadwall Anas strepera Frequent and increasing winter visitor and uncommon breeding species. 31

Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F ' M A M J J A s O N D Colon/Lea Marslon 118 34 13 9 14 10 - - 17 12 42 98 Dosthill/Kinqsbury 75 34 51 4 2 - - - 3 51 71 34 Draycote 120 14 5 2 5 2 2 23 100 128 109 150 Ladywalk 52 - 3 2 a - - - 50 31 35 37 Bishampton Vale Pool 11 1 2 2 2 1 1 5 7 11 12 11 Biltell 2 6 13 8 - - - 2 2 9 6 15 Bredon's Hardwick 5 2 10 2 2 1 1 1 - 6 - - Larford 14 8 10 3 10 3 Lower Moor 17 16 10 4 2 1 - - - 4 Westwood 20 33 31 32 7 3 2 3 4 18 27 40 Aqualate - 2 - 2 3 2 1 - 4 - - - Barton GP 1 9 2 3 7 13 - - - 9 4 3 Belvide 8 12 44 50 35 30 31 47 80 41 - 5 Blithfield 11 10 5 9 - 2 5 9 14 5 2 Branston WP 12 2 1 - - - - 5 8 - 4 Croxall GP 3 1 3 4 3 - - - 5 10 54 55 Ellord GP 73 60 47 - - - 5 28 42 46 Hill Ridware 6 2 5 Sandwell Valley 3 2 3 2 2 - 1 2 - 2

Warks Brandon appeared to be less attractive this year with no more than six present, though nearby Jubilee Pools held a regular flock during late winter which peaked at 48 on February 11th. Small numbers at a number of other sites in the north of the county, included maxima of 11 at Middleton Hall on January 21st, 12 at Paget's Lane Pool (Bubbenhall) on March 16th, 16 at Alvecote on April 17th and 23 at Shustoke on November 23rd, the latter being a record flock at that water. Increasing in the south of the county with maxima of seven at Lower Radbourn on December 15th and eight at Abbots Salford on 30th, with up to three at Charlecote, Chesterton, Compton Verney, llmington and Napton Res. Worcs Bred at Bredon's Hardwick, Westwood (where three ducklings at the end of July were not seen subsequently) and possibly at Wilden (a female with four well-grown juveniles in late July). Away from tabulated sites, small numbers were reported from: Grimley, Oakley (including an unusually high count of 28 on December 7th), Pirton (where the only double-figure count at this former stronghold was 16 on January 21st) and Upton Warren. Staffs Bred at Belvide (at least 52 young fledged, but the number of broods not recorded) and Doxey (two pairs). Away from tabulated sites, small numbers also recorded at: Copmere, Gailey, Kings Bromley, Tittesworth and West- port. W Mid The long-staying male was again present at Fens Pools throughout the year (apart from May), with additional records there of two pairs on January 31st, one pair from February 1st-10th and again on 15th, and single females on June 29th-30th, July 26th and August 3rd. At Park Lime Pits, a male and two females on January 19th and a female from 25th-29th were the first for the locality. Other records included singles on the Staffs and Worcs Canal in Valley Park on January 30th and February 3rd-8th, a male on Pelsall North Common on April 1 st, three at Bartley on 7th, a pair at Netherton Res on 24th, a pair at Sheepwash UP on September 29th, and a male on Wyndley Pool in Sutton Park on December 15th. 32

Teal Anascrecca Common winter visitor. Uncommon In summer and a scarce bleeding species. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Alvecole 149 185 44 55 - - - - - 43 3 - Brandon 330 117 129 53 27 4 5 34 161 125 75 255 Kingsbury area 150 149 79 43 - - - - 34 91 108 254 Draycote 197 170 320 70 4 14 2 25 471 566 200 320 Ladywalk 562 53 65 ------118 246 250 Oittell 20 50 51 34 2 1 - 11 41 46 ?0 4? Bredon's Hardwick 50 365 320 64 - - - 16 12 37 200 100 Grimley 40 34 12 34 - - - 11 60 45 - - Lower Moor 180 130 57 16 - - 1 10 10 27 60 Strensham 207 21 - - 7 41 20 26 Upton Warren 86 GO 26 25 7 2 9 SO 175 150 203 140 Weslwood 32 12 15 7 2 - 2 6 16 30 31 40 Wilden 45 33 - 11 4 - - 4 25 22 40 4 Aqualale 100 5 - 4 - - - - 6 4 25 - Barton GP 164 93 71 23 3 3 8 19 97 241 133 90 Belvide 872 900 852 460 7 3 8 20 323 245 301 485 Blithfield 684 1240 646 63 5 3 4 86 745 648 445 436 Branston WP 30 - - 8 - - 1 3 152 200 52 Croxall GP 285 112 86 34 - 1 6 68 84 227 167 Doxey 60 - 23 28 16 41 37 56 64 89 218 235 Ellord GP 75 51 23 17 - - - 6 6 5 24 87 Hill Ridware 86 73 81 ------69 54 80 Kings Bromley 18 53 2 1 - - - 1 15 11 2 35 Little Wyrley - 25 - - - - - 20 13 24 90 170 Pool Dam Marsh 65 - 30 26 - - - 4 30 20 - 36 Tittesworth 80 120 29 13 2 4 4 30 60 20 35 100 Goscole Valley 11 25 27 12 ------7 8 Sandwell Valley 60 42 40 53 6 1 1 15 35 40 58 65 Sheepwash UP 20 43 30 20 2 - 1 7 14 30 28 41

Warks A maximum of 130 at Shustoke on February 17th, while 120 at Baginton Lagoons on October 27th was the only count again from there. The low November figure from Brandon coincided with the presence of a pair of Hen Harriers! Small numbers noted in the winter months on many waters, including maxima in the southern half of the county of 21 at BAD Kineton in February, 45 at Charlecote Park, 20 at Napton Res and 12 at Ufton Fields in November, with 15 at Poolfields and 12 at Barford in December. Worcs Maxima elsewhere included 40 at Larford on February 3rd, 170 at Ripple on March 1st and 80 at Kinsham on March 15th. Smaller numbers at: Arrow Valley Lake, Ashmore Common, Aston Mill, Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool, Broadway GP, Castlemorton Common, Hewell Grange, Holt, Oakley, Pirton, Upton-upon-Severn and over Weatheroak Hill. Staffs Pairs bred at Aqualate (two) and Doxey (six). Away from tabulated sites, small numbers were recorded from: Astonfields (near Stafford), Betley Mere, Calwich (R.Dove), Chasewater, Copmere, Crumpwood sludge pit, Ford Green, Denstone, Rudyard and Westport. W Mid At Bartley there was a peak of 25 on April 3rd, while less than ten were reported during the winter months from: Dunstall Park Lake, Fens Pools, Mushroom Green Marsh, Park Lime Pits, Stubber's Green and Wyken Slough. 33

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Alvecote 200 230 15 ------177 50 64 Brandon 130 17 17 23 31 62 69 138 124 48 28 37 Chesterton 220 70 41 27 24 35 28 134 120 170 220 135 Draycole 410 135 120 56 85 132 220 620 355 391 440 275 Kingsbury area 279 287 65 - 52 86 - 137 222 331 414 Ladywalk 95 205 23 - - 23 - - - 125 176 305 Bishampton Vale Pool 25 16 15 6 9 14 32 62 59 96 60 43 Bittell 120 70 - 20 25 62 79 122 170 163 79 97 Lower Moor 60 48 25 17 18 26 40 95 128 100 53 70 Pirton 49 35 15 22 12 35 24 26 34 31 28 36 Upton Warren 100 33 32 31 103 53 284 332 100 94 180 159 Westwood 166 36 20 9 41 140 105 170 80 55 155 Wilden 165 100 63 70 95 95 100 130 150 - 91 102 Aqualate 314 58 36 27 75 326 402 551 192 104 234 124 Barton GP 271 232 135 126 112 217 95 64 174 237 307 354 Belvide 425 380 103 47 100 - 179 - 523 510 340 518 Blilhfield 412 140 39 131 211 453 738 795 721 381 492 446 Branston WP 40 42 36 21 17 34 26 190 76 104 160 159 Chillington 100 17 35 12 250 80 Copmere 83 15 10 8 8 - 27 74 40 13 45 123 Croxall GP 574 169 176 106 104 211 95 355 408 400 399 416 Doxey 142 197 73 45 37 58 165 179 119 137 15R 247 Elford GP 97 74 27 17 20 56 45 50 118 59 64 64 Hill Ridware 125 106 80 - - - - 257 439 459 Kettlebrook Lake 77 105 56 37 -11 34 45 63 73 63 86 95 Kings Bromley 264 108 115 107 72 142 87 194 324 403 421 475 Tltlesworth 60 400 40 38 48 80 65 10 200 60 300 Weslpoit 79 52 39 23 34 80 144 103 116 95 87 101 Bumble Hole 113 143 63 - - 46 61 73 81 54 50 57 Fens Pools/Buckpool 60 60 65 48 35 30 25 35 45 50 50 50 Netherton Res B4 89 20 15 19 27 30 33 22 27 38 96 Sandwell Valley 101 81 57 60 75 68 88 74 75 72 83 87 Sutton Park - 148 88 118 150 156

Warks Generally a poor breeding season with no site reporting more than six broods. Counts were generally down on last year. Other maxima included 256 at Coombe and 220 at Earlswood in January, 95 at Napton Res and 90 at Shuckburgh Park in August, and 300 on the R.Avon at Stratford in October; with other reported waters generally holding less than 75. Worcs Breeding reported at: Alfrick, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Broadway GP, Eckington, Larford, Lower Moor, Upton Warren and Wilden. Seen at numerous places throughout the year, with other maxima including 100 at Bewdley on January 27th, 40 at Brakemill Pool on February 11th, 120 at Arrow Valley Lake on 22nd, 42 at Strensham on September 29th, 84 at Trimpley on December 7th, 40 at Kinsham on 17th, 60 at Stourvale Marsh on 26th, 51 at Bredon's Hardwick on 28th and 120 at Mill Pond (Malvern) on 29th. Staffs Twelve broods at Doxey and five at Kettlebrook Lake, with others reported only from Belvide, Betley Mere and Borrowpit. Maxima from other localities included 228 at Greenway Bank CP/Knypersley Res, 86 at Stowe Pool (Lichfield) and 78 at Ford Green in January; 45 at Borrowpit, 40 on the R.Anker in Tamworth and 23 in Trentham Park in April; 25 at Betley Mere in August, and 64 at Gailey in November. 34

W Mid Very little breeding information received, with broods at Bilston (Grapes Pool), Coombeswood (Dudley No.2 Canal), Fens Pools (very poor success, with just one brood seen), Mons Hill, Park Lime Pits (five, totalling 26 young) and Sutton Park, and one unsuccessful pair in Woodgate Valley. Away from tabulated waters, counts included 85 along the Staffs and Worcs Canal in Valley Park on January 27th, 268 at Berkswell GP on July 28th and 170 on August 11th, and 95 at Wyken Slough on December 10th.

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 Draycote 7 4 7 - - - - 1 10 14 3 2 Bredon's Hardwick 13 81 60 2 - 3 - - - 1 6 3 Upton Warren 2 2 2 - - - - - 3 - - 1 Westwood 5 9 1 1 - 7 6 Barton GP ------2 3 - Belvide 11 17 19 6 - 2 7 10 1 - BlitMeld 45 39 17 2 - - 26 24 21 30 Doxey - 2 1 1 Kingswood 1 3

Warks A party of five remained at Ladywalk from January 1 st-April 8th, with two at Coton on January 2nd and February 11th, up to three at Dosthill from January 6th-13th and two at Alvecote on February 4th. Singles were at both Brandon and Shustoke on February 11th, the latter possibly the first there for many years. In March, singles were at Lighthorne Quarry on 19th (an excellent local record) and again at Brandon on 20th and 29th-30th, with two at Coton on 24th, followed by six at Dosthill on April 7th and a final bird at Brandon on 21st. September brought an influx to Draycote, which also produced singles at Coton on 14th, Dosthill on 18th and Brandon on 24th, with three at both Coton on 21st and Alvecote on 22nd. The year closed with two at the latter site on December 31st. Worcs Pairs visited Larford on January 17th and Lower Moor on both 30th and February 10th, with nine there on 18th. Grimley faired well, with six on February 25th, 14 from March 2nd-4th, and five on 24th. The largest count away from Bredon's Hardwick this year was 28 at Kempsey Upper Ham on February 26th, while three were at both Holt on March 4th and Bittell on April 7th. The only autumn records away from tabulated sites were singles at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 16th and Larford on October 22nd. Staffs Other records included singles at Croxall GP on January 1st and Betley Mere on 21st, two at Chillington on February 18th, one at Copmere on 29th and one at Aqualate on September 15th. IV Mid In Sandwell Valley, what was presumably last year's male was present from January 24th-April 16th, being joined by a female from April 5th-8th; with a male again from October 4th to the end of the year. The latter bird was often very elusive, spending some time in the nearby Red House Park. Elsewhere there was a male at Mushroom Green Marsh briefly on March 15th and one at Patrick Bridge, near Hampton-in-Arden on October 11th. 35

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, occasionally breeding. Very rare in winter. Average: April 2nd (53) - September 28th (52) A good spring passage began in strength earlier than usual, with the first being six at Draycote on March 13th. An average autumn passage, with the last at Belvide on October 19th. Warks An early arrival with six at Draycote on March 13th, declining to two on 14th and one next day. Singles later appeared there on April 7th, 11th and 23rd. A pair at Brandon from March 15th-17th were presumably the same birds which reappeared on 27th and on six dates during April 1st-21st. Another pair stayed at Ladywalk from March 31st-April 4th, with the male lingering to 14th. On return passage most records came from Draycote, with up to three from August 15th increasing to four from 24th and with a peak of five on 28th. Thereafter up to three were seen on various dates up to September 9th, with a final bird from September 22nd-October 1st. The only other record was a single at Brandon on August 25th-26th. Worcs A male at Kinsham from March 20th-28th, preceded a pair at Upton Warren from March 22nd-April 18th, and a male there on May 23rd. Four (two males) were at Bredon's Hardwick on March 26th, three on 29th, of which a pair stayed until April 15th, and a single male on 27th. A male was in the incon- gruous setting of Little Boughton GC (near Worcester) from March 29th-April 1st. In autumn, Upton Warren had an eclipse male on July 2nd-3rd, singles from July 26th-August 18th, four on 27th, with up to three remaining from 28th-September 5th, two until 7th and one lingering to 17th. Two more appeared there on 19th, one on 20th, with the last bird (an eclipse male) from 27th-29th. The only other autumn record was a male at Bittell on August 6th. Staffs The only spring records came from Belvide where there was a female on April 28th-29th, two from May 2nd-8th and two again from 17th-25th. At Blithfield, a female was also seen on June 7th, with up to two from 16th-21st. A good series of records came from this reservoir on return passage from July 24th- September 29th, with maxima of three from July 24th-August 4th, and four on August 6th-7th and 24th-25th. Elsewhere, there was a male at Doxey on August 16th and 18th, one at Branston WP on 22nd, and a female at Belvide from 25th-September 8th, followed by two there on 11th, one on 17th-19th, and the last of the year on October 19th. W Mid A pair at Bartley on April 7th was the only record received.

1991 Addendum Worcs A male at Lower Moor from March 14th-17th.

Blue-winged Teal Anas discors Very rare vagrant (1/10). This was the sixth Regional record, the last two coming from Brandon and Upton Warren in 1989. Four of the total come from Worcs, and apart from the first in March 1968, all first appeared between August 19th and October 17th which concurs with a natural vagrancy pattern. 36

Blue-winged Teal (behind) and Garganey (Phil Jones)

Staffs An eclipse male at Blithfield from September 22nd-29th PDH, MJI et al. was the first county record. However a 1994 record from this reservoir has still to be submitted to BBRC.

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 D Alvecote 8 7 - - - 2 - - 74 32 12 - Brandon 20 5 24 12 1 2 2 42 1 - 4 5 Draycote 3 4 4 7 3 - 1 21 95 116 50 32 Kingsbury area 100 30 30 24 2 - 8 - - 98 82 118 Ladywalk 27 21 65 68 4 - - - - 56 27 5 Bittell 1 - - 6 - - - 2 9 18 10 13 Bredon's Hardwick 25 10 40 25 1 - - 2 14 2 15 24 Pirton 4 2 3 2 - - - - 4 - 10 34 Upton Warren 100 109 102 87 2 1 5 28 40 102 107 40 Westwood 60 23 16 18 2 - - 1 11 44 116 84 Wilden 119 38 42 10 4 - 2 6 70 42 20 66 Aqualate - 2 2 26 3 2 - - 81 358 29 3 Barton GP 7 10 10 2 2 5 - 6 32 23 19 - Belvide 36 2 20 24 3 - 4 2 86 162 60 4 Blithfield 2 - 2 3 2 17 - 33 77 4 18 15 Branston WP ------2 40 44 75 Doxey 4 12 8 Hill Ridware 17 8 12 16 12 5 Kettlebrook Lake 11 8 2 4 3 4 Westport 11 3 3 1 - 2 - 3 1 2 1 1 Sandwell Valley 44 40 36 26 - - 3 2 5 42 45 37 Sheepwash UP 11 4 5 2 - - - - 2 2 8 5 37

Warks No information concerning the regular autumn build-up at Coombe. The largest counts in the south of the county were of ten, at Chariecote in March and Napton Res in November, with smaller numbers at BAD Kineton, Lower Radbourn and Wormleighton RRR. Worcs Small numbers also at Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool, Grimley (max. 16 on April 4th), Kinsham, Larford, Lower Moor and Oakley. The count of 119 at Wilden on January 7th was a locality record, with a 'bloom' of Daphnia considered to have been the cause of the attraction BW. Staffs Two pairs bred at Doxey. Elsewhere, less than ten were reported from Betley Mere, Chillington, Copmere, Croxall GP, Elford GP, Gailey, Longdon Mill Pool, Newbold Quarry (near Barton-under-Needwood) and Rickerscote. W Mid The only breeding season record involved a pair at Minworth SF during June. Wintering numbers continue to increase in Sandwell Valley. Away from tabulated waters small numbers were noted at: Cannon Hill Park, one on January 7th and three on December 1st; Dunstall Park Lake, three on January 16th were the first ever at this site, with numbers increasing to eight in February and ten in March; Edgbaston Park, one on February 16th; Fens Pools, up to three on dates up to April 4th and up to seven from September- December; Netherton Res, two on February 2nd and April 4th, with one on September 7th; and Wyken Slough, 12 on December 10th was the only count from this usually regular site. 1995 Addendum Warks An autumn build-up at Shustoke reached a peak of 67 on September 15th, the highest count from that reservoir for many years.

Anas hybrids Mallard x Gadwall W Mid One at Fens Pools on July 6th was thought to be of this parentage.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. Warks Virtually all records were from Draycote, where the male from 1995 remained until January 28th many obs. In the autumn an eclipse male was present on September 15th-16th and a female on October 3rd-4th PDH et al., followed by a party of four (two males, a female and a juvenile) on October 24th GIG, a female on 27th GIG, PDH and November 2nd DL and a male from Decem- ber 22nd-31 st GIG, JW et al. A female/immature at Dosthill on September 12th ARD, BLK was the only other record. Worcs Two males and a female were at Westwood on January 17th REH, SMW, a female at Upton Warren on February 18th AFJ, JHS et al. and a male at Larford from June 13th-August 11th RDH, TMH etal. Staffs A female at Blithfield on September 15th WJL, was the only record. W Mid A hybrid was again noted in the Dunstall Park/Valley Park area intermittently up until April 21st, with a juvenile male, thought also to contain hybrid blood, noted there on June 12th VPBG. 38

Pochard Aythya ferina Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce breeder, recently declined. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D Alvecote 70 76 33 ------3 19 48 Coton/Lea Marston 671 579 321 2 1 5 14 79 92 138 603 757 Dosthiil/Kingsbury 95 112 41 4 3 1 - - 4 150 548 103 Draycote 150 32 44 - 1 1 2 2 25 65 120 235 Shustoke 172 114 74 ------1250 750 Bishampton Vale Pool 46 53 43 9 - - - •1 13 46 40 43 Bittetl 50 18 21 6 3 - 2 2 9 38 31 21 Bredon's Hardwick 1S)t> 13U Si ia J I i T I 20 49 34 Larford 43 50 35 - - - 6 30 39 Lower Moor 51 46 32 10 - - - 1 4 14 8 37 Plrton 33 35 49 2 - - 2 7 22 24 28 Upton Warren 68 40 52 15 1 1 1 1 8 8 19 20 Westwood 134 90 40 6 2 - 7 8 10 46 60 138 Wilden 41 37 48 6 1 2 2 5 4 30 59 80 Aqualate 47 103 119 6 - 1 2 3 4 3 5 33 Barton GP 39 37 29 3 1 - 2 - 1 23 35 68 Belvide 20 39 87 21 6 7 2 3 50 105 39 165 Blithfield 20 18 26 1 3 16 17 15 14 78 64 22 Branston WP 32 42 27 - - - - 2 12 9 118 52 Copmere 34 77 21 1 - - - - 1 3 32 17 Croxall GP 50 48 43 1 4 1 1 2 6 4 74 27 Elford GP 38 73 17 2 9 6 Hill Ridware 24 23 21 ------13 10 18 Westport 30 29 37 12 1 - 14 6 24 60 29 56 Fens Pools 15 10 11 1 - - - 1 2 4 10 11 Netherton Res 8 14 4 - - - - - 5 14 8 Sandwell Valley 36 66 26 a 1 - 1 3 18 65 63 45 Sheepwash UP 50 30 18 5 - - 1 - 5 17 33 37 Stubber's Green - 6 8 7 20

Warks A pair almost certainly nested again at Wormleighton Res, but were flooded out during rising water levels in May. Small numbers on many waters during the winter months, with maxima including 57 at Bishop's Bowl, 50 at Ches- terton, 49 at Coombe, 42 at Earlswood, 100 at Ladywalk and 32 at Packing- ton Great Pool in January; 73 at Brandon, 39 at Compton Verney, 20 at Jubilee Pools and 22 at both Newbold Quarry and Seeswood Pool in February; 20 at Napton Res in November and 52 at Abbots Salford in December. The November count at Shustoke was thought to be the largest ever Irom that reservoir. Worcs No confirmed breeding records, although individuals summered at Upton Warren and Wilden. Numbers along the R.Severn reached 48 at Worcester on February 9th and 34 at Grimley on February 25th. Small numbers also at Cofton Res, Kinsham, Kyre Pool, Oakley, Stanford Court, Strensham and Upton-upon-Severn. Staffs Other maxima included 12 at Borrowpit and 20 at Doxey in January, 39 at Kettlebrook Lake, 17 at Kings Bromley and 22 at Tittesworth in February, 25 at Betley Mere in March and 34 at Chillington in December, with smaller numbers also at Brookleys Lake, Brocton NR, Little Wyrley and Trentham Park. W Mid One or two were present in the Brookvale ParkA/Vitton Lakes area early in the breeding season. Counts elsewhere included 14 at Bumble Hole and ten in 39

Small Heath Park in February, 24 at West Smethwick Park in March and a max. of 20 at Bartley in November. Smaller numbers in the Dunstall Park/ Valley Park area, and at Park Lime Pits, Sutton Park, Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough.

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Scarce visitor, many probably being of feral origin. Warks The now perennial well-watched male remained in the Coton/Lea Marston complex of pools until at least March 24th SMH et al. and again from August 26th KW until December 25th SMH after which it is thought to have departed following the onset of cold weather. It occasionally visited nearby Kingsbury WP, and was seen at Ladywalk on January 17th PAH.

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 Colon/Lea Marston 690 581 346 479 210 64 885 905 1397 1123 654 969 Draycote 455 121 70 70 59 20 49 55 100 290 523 803 Kingsbury/Dosthill 221 265 134 129 130 - 95 - - 158 179 156 Blshainplun Vale Pool 36 22 - 30 IS 28 34 2 Si 40 SI 2b 2U Bittell 50 23 20 30 28 9 16 26 23 33 20 25 Bredon's Hardwick 35 89 30 52 20 14 14 26 - 26 20 55 larlord 26 28 19 16 - 5 10 8 20 8 43 45 Lower Moor 31 35 38 40 31 29 55 48 75 40 30 25 Pirton 30 15 27 45 42 29 14 14 12 4 22 37 Upton Warren 17 19 23 35 17 28 40 24 20 25 18 8 Westwood 45 67 50 46 30 7 16 25 20 32 50 100 Wilden 4 6 72 81 64 60 70 51 60 7 7 4 Aqualate 25 30 28 24 52 17 22 79 36 44 29 43 Barton GP 52 60 48 95 78 91 57 161 134 102 132 111 Belvide 19 36 50 100 66 47 15 100 110 124 72 91 Blithlield 21 20 31 65 84 81 472 124 224 173 52 12 Branston WP 106 119 128 45 15 24 70 72 113 67 168 110 Chillington 60 - 40 ------12 12 40 Copmere* 45 24 47 30 7 - 46 80 170 123 50 82 Croxall GP 101 67 145 198 93 110 167 147 85 62 79 110 Elford GP 38 86 22 51 52 84 81 86 34 17 74 48 Gailey - - - 75 70 64 - - - 24 18 30 Hill Ridware 35 35 36 - - - - 59 28 30 Kettlebrook Lake 40 42 35 a a 5 3 - 1 5 10 20 Kings Bromley 31 36 9 5 26 5 - 4 - 10 73 45 Westport 40 37 27 20 12 24 30 27 56 45 26 40 Bumble Hole 25 27 10 10 ------8 6 Fens Pools 90 85 64 39 4 8 15 33 31 30 65 85 Netherton Res 69 97 10 5 2 2 5 2 1 1 14 97 Sandwell Valley 57 150 64 80 20 20 3 6 28 40 87 130 Sheepwash UP 48 60 50 - - - 8 6 12 7 12 25 Sutton Par* - 90 77 ------64 48 42 Warks Broods noted at: Ashorne, Baddesley Clinton (three), Brandon, Draycote, llmington (two), Ladywalk (three), Lower Radbourn, Newfield Pool, Packing- ton, Shuckburgh Park and Shustoke (two). Undoubtably under-reported as a breeding bird, particularly on small pools on private estates and in agricultural areas. Away from tabulated waters, maxima included 80 at Jubilee Pools and 120 at Ladywalk in January, 42 at Alvecote, 45 at Compton Verney, 82 at 40

Lower Radbourn, 36 at Newbold Quarry and 71 at Ryton Pool in February, 53 at Abbots Salford in March, 53 at Packington Great Pool in August and 40 at Wilmcote in September. Worcs Broods reported from: Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool (two), Bittell (two), Bredon's Hardwick, Grafton Pool, Lower Moor (five), Strensham, Upton Warren and Wilden (three). Away from tabulated waters, many sites recorded small numbers of this species, with the largest counts being 80 on the R.Severn at Grimley on January 28th, 45 at Holt Fleet on February 1st, 20 at Kyre Pool on March 17th, 42 on the R.Severn at Clevelode on December 28th and 60 on the R.Avon at Fladbury on 31st. Staffs Broods noted at: Aqualate (three), Belvide (two), Betley Mere, Blithfield (four), Copmere, Dimmingsdale Wood Pool (three), Doxey, Ford Green (three-four) and Little Wyrley. Away from tabulated waters, smaller counts were reported widely throughout the year W Mid A poor breeding season was evident with broods only noted at: Park Lime Pits (first successful breeding here), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two, but soon disappeared) and Wyndley Pool in Sutton Park. A max. of 60 occurred at Park Lime Pits on January 30th, which was double the previous winter's peak; whilst other counts included 20 at Small Heath Park in February and 21 at Wyken Slough in December.

Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks Fewer records from the Tame valley than usual. The year started with a female at Dosthill from January 4th-8th and on 20th-21st. A male was seen at Coton on February 3rd, with a female at nearby Lea Marston on 18th. Probably the same female was at Shustoke on February 25th, and on March 5th, 10th, and from 16th-26th, with a final female at Dosthill on April 20th. At Draycote during this period, a male appeared on February 4th, with probably the same bird staying here from 16th-March 28th. It was joined by a second male on March 4th and by a female which stayed from 23rd-April 7th. A female was at Earlswood Lakes on January 17th. In the autumn a single female was again seen at Shustoke on November 6th, 12th and 21st, December 1st, 26th-27th, and at Coton on 29th. At Draycote a female was present on December 1st-3rd, 14th and from 21st to the end of the year, with an immature male here from 28th-31st. Worcs A male at Wilden from January 13th-20th later moved to Larford, where it stayed from January 27th-March 24th, being joined by a female from February 27th to the end of its stay. The latter bird was presumably the female first seen on the R.Severn at Grimley from January 28th-31st, before visiting Westwood on February 5th and then found back at Grimley on 25th. There were also two females at Bredon's Hardwick on January 14th and a male there on 30th. Staffs During the first quarter there were single females at Gailey on January 13th and Chasewater on 28th, a first-winter male at Blithfield on March 31st and a female at Belvide on April 1st-2nd. In the autumn, after an immature at Westport from October 5th-10th, there were single females at Belvide on 41

22nd, November 4th-6th and 14th, with two at Chasewater on December 28th. W Mid A female was present at Netherton Res from January 29th-February 26th, with possibly the same bird visiting Fens Pools on six dates between February 3rd-26th. A male and two females were at Bartley on February 22nd and a male at Fens Pools on March 24th. During the latter part of the year there were records of an immature at Bartley on August 22nd, a first-winter male at Withymoor Pool on November 19th and a male in Sandwell Valley on December 10th.

Aythya hybrids Pochard x Tufted Duck Warks A female at Coton on February 4th. W Mid A male at Park Lime Pits on February 13th.

Tufted x Pochard Warks A male at Coton on January 13th.

Tufted Duck x Scaup Worcs A female at Upton Warren from June 23rd-July ?nri

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Rare winter visitor, with occasional summer records (8/10). Staffs An adult female at Gailey on January 13th ESC.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Good-sized influxes occurred on April 7th and in mid-November. Warks A good year, with at least 88 birds involved. A male at Draycote from February 26th-28th, was followed by three on March 28th, seven from 31st-April 1st and an impressive flock of up to 38 on 7th, when five were also present at Dosthill. The final spring record was of two at Draycote on April 16th. A female there on July 13th, was followed by a male at Earlswood Lakes on September 2nd-3rd, two at Draycote on 6th, one on 20th and with two females remaining there from October 8th-27th. On October 13th two males appeared at Ches- terton, with one staying on the tiny Church Pool until at least the 18th. On November 15th a movement produced nine at Shustoke and seven at Dray- cote, with five more at Coton next day, and a final male at Dosthill on 22nd. Worcs A party of four (two pairs) at Upton Warren on January 13th was the only winter record. Spring passage consisted of a male at Bredon's Hardwick from March 22nd-24th, a pair at Wilden also on 24th and another pair at both Lower Moor (morning) and Westwood (afternoon) on April 7th, both possibly involving the same birds. Later in the year there was a female at Bittell on July 31st, while a mid-November influx produced a male at Bredon's Hardwick and a female/immature at Westwood on 15th, an impressive flock of 19 (all females/immatures) at the latter site on 16th and another immature at Upton Warren on the same day. 42

Staffs After a male at Westport on January 21st, there was a small spring passage beginning with a pair here on March 21st, followed by tour males at Blithfield on 31st, with a pair there and five at Belvide on April 7th. A male at Blithfield on July 7th and two males at Belvide on August 18th were the only summer records, with two females at Chasewater on September 16th. A large Novem- ber influx then began at Blithfield, with 22 on 16th, 15 on 17th, two on 20th, 11 on 23rd, 13 on 26th, four on 27th, and five from 30th-December 1st. This party subsequently dropped to three females from December 4th-6th, two from 8th-11th, with one remaining until 29th. Elsewhere, there were three at Belvide on November 14th, five (two males) at westport on 16th with a female next day, and a female at Chasewater on 30th and male at Belvlde on December 13th. W Mid A good series of records came from Bartley, with a male on February 26th, four males and a female on March 31st, two pairs on April 7th, a male on 17th, a male on September 6th-7th, and finally, a female/immature from November 20th-23rd.

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Fairly common winter visitor. Rare in summer. Monthly maxima at main sites: J FMAM J JASOND Colon 14 12 11 3 ------22 Dosthill/Kingsbury 64 40 32 65 1 - - - - 4 12 30 Draycote 126 105 117 70 - - - - - 25 20 46 Bittell 4145-----123 l.arlord 3321------4- Upton Warren 3---1 - -- -- 22 Westwood 4566-----173 Aqualate 1211------13 Barton GP 26 19 27 ------17 27 Betvide 15 32 21 27 - - - - - 1 21 20 Blithfield 49 47 35 15 - - - 1 - 2 49 23 Branston WP 145------45 Chasewater 105 105 76 ------110 Chillington 12 79------77 Copmere 7-116------33 CroxallGP 5 15 27 ------18 2 Hill Ridware 13 13------2- Kings Bromley 27 21 10 ------__22 Westport 14 16 12 9 ----- 3 12 11 Bartley 5431------44 Fens Pools 322------22 Nelherton Res 11------32 Sandwell Valley 422-1 - -- -- 31 Sutton Park --12------1

Warks Otherwise up to four at Alvecote, Blyth Hall, Brandon, Jubilee Pools, Lady- walk, Middleton Hall and Shustoke in the north, and at Abbots Salford, Charlecote, Compton Verney and Lower Radbourn in the south. Worcs Small numbers also noted at: Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hardwick, Grimley, Lower Moor, Pirton, Ribbesford and Wilden. An unusually late spring female at Upton Warren on May 26th. Staffs An isolated summer record came from Blithfield on August 4th. More occasional records of very small numbers were reported from several further sites. 43

W Mid Two males at Bumble Hole on November 17th were the only others to be reported.

Smew Mergus albellus Scarce winter visitor. Very rare in summer. An exceptional cold weather influx during the early months produced a bare minimum of 41 birds.

Smew (John Teasdale)

Warks A good year, with records from three main areas. Dosthill was the most favoured area, with the redhead from 1995 being joined by a male from January 3rd SMH, and by a second redhead from 6th PDH, CJL: all three remaining for the rest of the month many obs. In February, numbers fluctuated with odd birds moving over the border into Staffs and also visiting Swann Pool at Kingsbury. However at least seven different individuals were involved, with a peak of three males on 3rd and 25th PDH and four redheads on 17th SMH and 28th NDG. A male and three redheads remained at Dosthill until March 2nd when two of the latter moved over to Swann Pool and then Coton SMH et al., being still present at the latter on 9th PDH, SMH. A single redhead also remained at Dosthill for the rest of the month and into early April many obs., with the last record on 9th DHR. A good series of records at Alvecote during the same period consisted of a pair on February 11th ARD, a redhead on 14th, two redheads on 17th, no fewer than two males and five redheads on 18th and 20th, and a final redhead on March 3rd MAA, MWP, RJT et al. At Draycote, the redhead from 1995 was joined by two males on January 7th, with one male and the redhead continuing to be seen until February 10th, being joined by a second redhead on January 11th JJB, JW et al. At the end of the year, the first to return were a male and redhead at Dosthill on dates from December 15th-23rd PDH, SMH, GJM, with four 44

redheads there on 27th JKAA, JL, KW and a male and four redheads on 30th GJM. The year closed with a male and redhead at Alvecote on 31st SMH. Worcs A male at Westwood on January 26th TMH, GDL, SMW et al., and a redhead at Upton Warren on December 18th GLaB, TN et al. were the only records. Staffs The male at Chasewater from 1995 remained until frozen out on February 3rd sev. obs. A cold weather influx brought two redheads to Croxall GP from January 2nd-27th ESC, MJI, increasing to three males and six redheads from February 3rd-15th ESC et al., and then declining to two males with five redheads on 24th, and two males with three redheads on 29th ESC. There were also two males and a redhead at nearby Alrewas GP on February 7th ESC, with possibly the same redhead at both Fisherwick from 11th-18th ICW, MY and Elford GP on 22nd ESC. Another good series came from Blithfield, with two males on February 4th ESC, GIG, PDH, followed by a male and two redheads on 11th which were joined by two more redheads on 16th-17th, with a single male and redhead staying to 28th ESC, PDH et al. The first to return in early winter were a redhead at Westport on December 9th WJL and a male at Copmere on 14th DWE, SME. At Dosthill north GP where birds had been present early in the year (see Warks), there were a male and redhead on December 21st MAA, MJI, RJT which were joined by another redhead on 28th JAA and by two further redheads on 30th MJI. Blithfield held a male on December 22nd ESC, MJI, WJL, while Croxall GP attracted a redhead back on 28th ESC. Finally, nearby Alrewas GP had a male and two redheads on December 27th which were joined by a third redhead on 30th PDH etal.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred Staffs in 1994. A good year, with a total of ten in mid-November coinciding with a large influx of Common Scoter. Warks Single females were at Draycote from February 9th-24th JW et al., on May 13th-19th GIG, SMH, November 18th CHP, and from December 15th-28th GIG, SMH, JWetal. Another redhead was at Shustoke on October 30th BLK, with an immature or eclipse male at Earlswood Lakes on November 17th J AC, ARD. Worcs A female was present at Westwood from February 11 th-13th REH, SMW, with perhaps the same bird at Bittell from 18th-26th REH, MJI et al. A female at Upton Warren for a couple of hours on May 12th RAH, TMH et al. was the first for the reserve; while the second there, also a redhead, was found by the same observers on November 16th RAH, TMH et al. Staffs Three males and two redheads at Westport on February 1st WJL, were followed by two spring records from Tittesworth; of a male on April 3rd and a pair on 10th PAW. A small influx in November produced a redhead at West- port from 15th-21 st NC, AK, DK, WJL, two redheads at Chasewater on 16th ICW, MY, and a male and three redheads at Blithfield also on 16th WJL, with two redheads remaining until 25th sev. obs. and one to 27th ESC, JCT W Mid An adult male was at Bartley on April 20th AN. 45

Goosander Mergus'merganser Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare breeding bird in Staffs and Worcs since 1990. Monthly maxima at main citoc:

JFMAMJ JASQND Atvecote 13 16 10 - 1 ------31 Dosthlll/Kingsbury 7 29 12 ------3 14 Draycote 77 6B 77 14 - - - - 12 24 67 Earlswood Lakes B 16 12 ------2 13 Ladywalk 15 441------2 Shustoke 35 11 g - - - - - _ _ 4 n Bitlell 5 22 14 4--- - - 1 4 4 Lartord 20 81------B127 Upton Warren 1 812------1 Westwood 55------17 Aqualale -Z22------6 Belvide 190 123 109 46 7 - - - - 11 123 103 Blithlield 142 B9 41 29 2 - 1 19 112 Chasewater 8 1 12 B ------40 Chilinglon 50 11 31 ------12 17 Copmere - 17 26 4------2 Croxall GP 65 1 Doxey 5 18 2------5 Kings Bromley 1 7 16 1------2 1 Tittesworth 32 15 40---5 5 2 - 20 55 Wcatport 1 a 12 Bartley -12 1------56 Sandwell Valley 25 10 10 8 - - - - 9 26

Warks An excellent year, with a notable influx early in the year which resulted in the county record being broken for the second successive year, with 77 at Dray- cote on January 21st and March 24th. Record counts also occurred in the north of the county. Other maxima include 13 at Coton on January 13th, six at Wormleighton Res on 25th, seven at Whitacre Pool on February 10th, ten at Napton Res on March 19th and eight at Jubilee Pools on 27th, with up to five also reported from Abbots Salford, Black Hill Pool, Brandon, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coombe, Dog Lane Pool (Napton), Eathorpe, Fenny Compton, Leamington Spa and Middleton Hall. Extreme dates were April 27th and October 19th, both at Draycote; apart from a late redhead at Alvecote on May 19th. Worcs Another very good year. Away from the tabulated sites, the largest counts were 85 at Kyre Pool on March 6th and 39 along the R.Severn between Clevelode and Kempsey on December 28th. Small numbers also recorded at or over: Abberton, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hardwick, Castlemorton Common, Dowles Brook, Habberley Valley, Lower Moor, Standbatches, Throckmorton, Trimpley, Witchbatch and Witley Court. Staffs A female and 13 juveniles were seen on the R.Dove at Norbury on June 18th. The January count at Belvide (on 9th) was a new Regional record, while away from tabulated waters there were more isolated counts of 40 at Rudyard on January 23rd, ten at Kingswood on 28th, 11 at Dosthill north GP on February 11 th and 17 at Little Wyrley on 30th during the early months, and a later count of 22 at Rudyard on November 25th. Smaller numbers were also noted at: Barton GP, Betley Mere, Borrowpit, Branston WP, Brookleys Lake, Calwich, 46

Denstone, Hill Ridware, Longsdon Mill Pool, Okeover Mill, Pendeford Mill NR and Trontham Park. WMid Increasing numbers of this once scarce duck are now wintering in Sandwell Valley. Away from the two main waters early in the year, a redhead flew south over Ford Brook, Pelsall on January 3rd, two redheads were on the largely frozen Powell's Pool in Sutton Park on 27th, a male was at Fens Pools on February 1st and a redhead was at Berkswell GP on April 61h. Later in the year, seven redheads circled Fens Pools on December 14th before flying off to the west.

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

J F, M A M J J A s 0 N D Coton 241 - 30 - - - - - 163 119 247 Dosthill 41 170 262 140 5 - - - - 6 8 6 Draycote 14 16 1 1 - - - 5 2 4 4 6 Bishampton Vale Pool - - 3 7 5 9 11 16 13 13 1 - Bitten 5 1 1 4 4 4 1 4 4 7 6 - Pirton 4 5 15 7 6 6 8 22 36 28 7 4 Upton Warren 9 9 17 20 15 9 12 7 4 2 1 2 Westwood 9 36 42 39 12 8 15 12 8 14 33 6 Wilden 1 2 4 9 14 8 12 9 13 1 - 1 Aqualate - 7 25 28 26 13 17 19 37 73 20 - Barton GP ------2 8 17 4 Belvide 4 43 67 19 20 8 2 2 2 8 8 4 Betley Mere - - - 10 - 5 11 61 41 10 1 - Blithlield 380 233 141 11 8 5 30 80 203 282 278 430 Brookleys Lake - - - 2 2 3 1 10 - 4 - - Croxall GP 2 11 18 22 2 2 - - - 2 1 1 Elford GP - - - 4 3 3 Gailey - - - 8 9 - - - - - 14 - Fens Pools - - 5 5 3 3 4 4 4 3 2 Sandwell Valley 2 2 4 4 6 2 1 1 1 1 3 1

Warks Broods only noted at Lower Radbourn and Newfield Pool (two). Small numbers on several other Tame valley waters south to Ladywalk and Shus- toke. Elsewhere maxima of 12 at Alvecote on February 4th and ten at Lower Radbourn on May 12th, with up to five at Brandon, Chesterton, Coombe, Frankton, Napton Res, Stoneton Moat and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Broods noted at: Church Lench Pool, Hurcott Pool, Kinsham, Lower Moor, Pirton, Upton Warren (three) and Wilden. Small numbers also reported from Bredon's Hardwick, Grimley, Hewell Park and Larford. Staffs Breeding only reported from Betley Mere, where three-six pairs were estimated to have done so. Smaller numbers were also noted at: Branston WP, Chillington, Copmere, Doxey, Hill Ridware, JCB Pools at Rocester, Little Wyrley, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid The only confirmed breeding record came from Sandwell Valley. Away from the two main sites small numbers were noted (largely in spring and summer) at: Bartley, Bumble Hole, Edgbaston Park (max. three), Hydes Road Pool (max. five), Minworth SF (max. five), Netherton Res, Sheepwash UP, Stoke Floods, Stubber's Green and Sutton Park (max. six). 47

Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor, which occasionally bred in the 19thC (6/10). W Mid One was observed over Bartley Res on June 12th JHB, AN, before drifting off high to the north. This was the first record in the area covered by the present county since June 1903, when a bird was seen near Wolverhampton.

Red Kite Milvus milvus A scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th century. Warks One at Moreton Morrell on April 11 th MG was the only confirmed sighting. Up to ten others were reported during the year from all parts of the county but unfortunately details of these records were not received. Worcs Given the success of the reproduction schemes in England and Wales, the recent increase in records is probably no coincidence. Singles were seen from the motorway near Whittington on February 21st JHo and flying south over Upton Warren on March 9th PA; the latter being probably the bird seen from the motorway near Newland Common on March 14th GHP. One watched flying east over Adams Hill, Clent on May 6th WEM was later observed over the Lickey Hills, just twenty minutes later GLaB. The wing moult described independently by the two observers confirmed that they had been watching the same bird. An untagged bird was seen near Croome Perry Wood on June 6th-7th KH, BMM, SMW, while finally, a wing-tagged individual from the Scottish reintroduction scheme was present at Conderton from June 25th-August 3rd SD, SJH et al. Staffs Singles at Windmill Bank from February 6th-17th JPS and at Beech on August 10th WJL, NW. W Mid One flew over Bosty Lane, Aldridge on March 24th ISS, while another was seen over the ranger station in Valley Park on May 5th VPBG.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce though increasing passage migrant. Warks Single females were seen at Whitacre Heath on April 21st KW, Ladywalk on May 17th SMH and at Wormleighton Res on August 28th JJB. Both the spring birds left to the north, while the autumn bird moved south. Worcs An adult female which entered the county from Bartley (West Mids) on April 2nd SPR was seen over Frankley Beeches and Westminster Farm before eventually heading off west. Staffs A first-summer female at Branston GP on May 18th RJJ, was followed on 19th by a female at Blithfield WJL. On return passage at Blithfield, an immature was seen on July 27th ESC and a female on August 18th ESC, PDH; while at Belvide on August 8th, a female was seen at a distance to join what was probably a second bird RE W Mid Single females flew over Bartley into Worcs on April 2nd SPR and east over Fens Pools on August 17th SE. 48

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred Statts in 19/4-5 and 1979. Warks A pair hunted in the Brandon area from November 17th-22nd BMCG. Although rather elusive, these birds provided a much needed county tick for the lucky few! Worcs A ring-tail at Throckmorton on November 8th-9th SMWet al., was also seen distantly over Badger's Hill on the latter date. Staffs All records this year came from the regular roost site at Swallow Moss during January-March and November-December. Unfortunately only one of these, of a ringtail on November 3rd bSC, was supported by a description.

Harrier sp. Circus sp. Warks A ringtail harrier, probably Montagu's, was seen briefly beside the M40 motorway near Chesterton Wood on June 16th BC.

Goshawk Accipiter gentiiis Scarce resident and visitor. Warks A male present at Packington during November per NPB, was confirmed when caught on video while it visited a garden within the park! Worcs Displaying birds were present in the breeding season at two confidential sites. Away from possible breeding areas, one was at Kemerton on March 10th AW and a female was seen at Lower Moor on October 13th RAP. Staffs Recorded at four confidential sites during the breeding season, with at least one successful pair. A bird was seen in company with a Sparrowhawk at Doxey on May 18th. WMid A female watched circling over Fens Pools in the company of a pair of Sparrowhawks on April 13th SE.

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks Records from over 55 sites, including confirmed breeding pairs at Bentley Park (at least two), Burton Dassett, Chesterton Wood, Church Pool Covert, Corley, Packington (where reported as common), Rugby and Stoneton. Worcs Breeding confirmed at Lower Moor, Newland Common, Upton Warren, Worcester and Windmill Hill. In total, records came from a total of 66 sites of which 38 referred to the breeding season. A female at Upton Warren was seen to catch a Swift on May 19th SMW, a prey species not mentioned in Birds of the Western Palearctic. Staffs Despite healthy numbers of records, only one confirmed breeding record was received this year: at Blithfield. Records of interest included interaction with both Common Buzzard and Goshawk, while prey included Collared Dove (at Weeping Cross). W Mid Records came from over 30 sites, including three pairs present in Sandwell Valley and two pairs in Woodgate Valley. Up to six were present in the Dun- stall and Valley Parks area during January. Prey species reported included Collared Dove (Coundon), Woodpigeon (Park Lime Pits), Blue Tit, Greenfinch and House Sparrow (Four Oaks). 49

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A massive increase in records this year, with reports from over 80 sites (double that of 1995) distributed throughout the county, with fewest records from the north-east. At least 11 pairs were proved breeding but there may have been as many as 25-30 pairs in total. Parties of up to five were noted in a number of areas, while six were seen at both Meon Hill and Packington, and exceptionally ten were in the air together over a wood in the Walton area in March. One killed a Moorhen in Packington Park on January 15th. Worcs Breeding pairs located at: Broughton Green, Caunsall, Croome, Eymore Wood, Lineholt, Martley, Menithwood, Nash Elm Wood, Ribbesford Wood, Spetchley, Stanford Wood, Upper Bentley and Woodbury Hill. Very well reported from throughout the county in both the breeding season (59 localities), and the non-breeding season (a further 53 localities). The largest counts were of nine at Quarry Hill on March 2nd, ten at Lindridge on 23rd, eight at Walton Hill on 27th, 12 between Stanford and Martley on 30th, and eight at Kinsham on September 22nd. Staffs Only five reports of breeding pairs, despite numerous sightings from throughout the county. The largest counts were of six over the Sheepwalks on April 15th, seven at Beech on August 11th and nine over the Weaver Hills on August 26th. WMid At least one, and possibly two pairs were present in the county during the breeding season. Away from the latter area records continue to increase, with 51 records from 20 sites this year including birds on 13 dates at Fens Pools, and on seven dates at both Sandwell Valley and in the Dunstall/Valley Park area. Most records involved one or two birds distributed in all months, but with three at Barrow Hill on April 13th, six over Woodgate Valley on September 11th and five over Valley Park on October 21st.

Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (3/10). W Mid One drifting north-north-east over Bushbury (Wolverhampton) on April 20th LHB, was perhaps surprisingly the first county record this century. 1995 Addendum Staffs One flying over the Roaches on April 14th JJB, was presumably the bird that had previously frequented Swallow Moss from 7th-12th.

Osprey Pandion haiiaetus Scarce but increasing passage migrant. The three records in different counties on March 31st were notable. Although birds are now seen regularly during the first week of April, it appears that the only previous March record in modern times was of a bird at Blithfield on 25th in 1993. Warks One flew north over Long Compton on March 31 st MDBs, and singles visited Alvecote on April 10th RC and Earlswood Lakes on May 6th J AC. Worcs Singles were noted moving north-west over Abberley on March 31 st BW, and visiting Bittell on May 4th-5th SMW et ai., and Upton Warren on 10th JTB. 50

Staffs All records came from Blithfield, where there were spring singles on March 31st ESC, GIG, PDH and April 24th LSC. In August, a Dira thought to be immature was seen there on 10th RJJ, ICW, MY, with an adult on 11th ESC, WJL and another on September 6th ESC. W Mid Singles flew over Edgbaston Park on April 10th SPR, Bartley on 16th MDJ and Fens Pools on July 19th DAD. 1993 Addenda Worcs Singles were seen at both Pinvin on April 5th RAP and over Wyre Piddle on 29th RAP. The first of these may have been the bird seen further up the Avon valley at Combrook (WarkS) tne same day.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks Widely reported. Breeding proven at Brandon, Fenny Compton, Lighthome, Maxstoke, Napton, Packington (up to four pairs, with two successful), Rad- way, Salford Priors, Shipston-on-Stour, Shuckburgh Park, Stoneton and Wormleighton Res. Along 8.4km of the M40 motorway near Warwick, three out of 11 nest boxes were used producing a total of 16 young. Pellet analysis showed the remains of 34 mice, shrews and voles of which 29 were Field Vole (Microtus agrestis ) MVT per GRH. A marked influx of birds into the south-east of the county during the final two months was noted by JJB, presumably exploiting a good food supply. Seven hunting over 20 hectares of land at BAD Kineton on September 9th was the largest count. Worcs Reported from 48 localities (cf. 39 in 1995, 28 in 1994) of which 22 were in the breeding season, though again only one positive breeding record received; at Lower Moor. A female was watched hunting beneath the canopy of Chase End Wood during frosty weather in December. Staffs As usual relatively few records were received, although the species apparently remains fairly numerous and widespread. A nest with three chicks was robbed at a site near the Roaches, while family parties were reported from Little Wyrley, Park Hall CP and Westport. W Mid Very little information received this year. At least five pairs were reported in the Saltwells LNR area of which one raised three young in a nestbox adjacent to the visitor centre. Also reported in the breeding season in the Dunstall/ Valley Parks area, and at Harborne, Mons Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore (family party seen in July), Streetly (probably bred) and Whitley.

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeding bird on the northern moorlands. Warks Early in the year at Draycote a male was seen sporadically from January 6th- March 24th JJB et al., with a female noted on March 5th DL. Single female/ immature type birds visited Bedworth Slough on January 26th SDN and Brandon on February 23rd, 26th and March 6th, with presumably the same bird at nearby Baginton Airport on 8th BMCG. One seen at Ladywalk on February 11th and 25th per SLC, with males near Curdworth (also in West Mids) on March 4th BLK, Shustoke on April 11th BLK and PooKields on 13th 51

NC. In the autumn there were records on a dozen dates at Draycote during September 15th-December 31 st, again usually involving a male sev. obs., but with a female/immature type on September 20th DL and November 12th GJM. Elsewhere, a female was seen in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton area on six dates during October 14th-November 26th JJB and again early in 1997. A male flying over the M40 near Barford on November 6th DD, and a female/immature on the county border at Over Green on 13th BLK were the only other records. Worcs Female/immature type birds were at Smite on January 28th SMW, and Bredon's Hardwick on January 30th JHWR, February 11th GHP, March 17th WFP and 21st-22nd SJH, WFP; with a male on March 29th GHP and April 6th MJI, SMW. Further female/immature birds were at Lower Moor on February 3rd and 6th REH, WFP, DJS, Harvington on 13th MET, Wadborough on 29th KH, Upton Warren on March 21st-22nd SC, PFR and Westwood on April 18th GHP An unusually early autumn record concerned a male at Island Pool on August 25th BW. Female/immature birds were then seen at Westmancote on October 12th GHP and December 4th SD, and at Kinsham on November 3rd GHP, WFP. A male was at Lower Moor on November 23rd SMW, with an immature there the same day PFS, and again on December 7th at Throck- morton PFS. Also in December, one chased Redwings over Hollybush Quarry on 1st MWCW, a male was seen just south of Droitwich on 8th RRH, with another at Kinsham on 16th SMW, and a female at Beckford on 28th SMW. Staffs Present throughout the year on the northern moorlands with breeding season records coming from five sites. Unfortunately no evidence of successful breeding was forthcoming this year. Away from here records were rather sparse compared to recent years, with just single female/immature type birds at Whitemoor Hay on January 1st GIG, PDH, MY, Westport on August 26th NC, AH, WJL, Whitemoor Hay again on November 11th DJA and Barton GP on December 1 st ICW. W Mid Again all records came from the Wiggins Hill Road area (straddling the West Mids/Warks county boundary), which produced an adult male on March 4th, an adult female and female/immature on November 13th, and a male on December 16th BLK.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 24th (29) - October 3rd (32) An early bird was at Brandon on April 12th, with the main influx from 21st. The final autumn records came on October 13th, with singles at Belvide, Chester- ton and Fenny Compton. Warks Well-reported with records coming from 55 sites distributed throughout the county, though sightings at feeding grounds at Brandon, Draycote and in the Tame valley were less numerous than last year. Proven breeding is notoriously difficult to establish for this species, though at least one nest was successful in the north of the county with pairs present at possibly five other sites, at one of which a family party was seen in late summer. Two more family parties were seen in the east and south-east, with at least three other 52

pairs noted displaying. Another pair reared two young at a traditional site in the centre of the county. With other pairs suggested in underwatched western districts, the actual breeding population could be as high as 15-20 pairs. Worcs Breeding reported from sites in the far west of the county and south-east of Worcester. Casual sightings came from a further 33 localities distributed throughout the county, indicating a healthy local population. Staffs Widely reported in the county, but again with only one report of positive breeding. In this case the pair reared three young. IV Mid For the third year running a pair bred successfully in the county. The first of the year was in Sandwell Valley on the early date of April 21st, with singles at this locality on a further nine dates up to August 6th. Elsewhere there were 20 sightings of mainly single birds over the period May 2nd- September 15th, with records from Balsall Common, Bartley, Binley, Brad- nock's Marsh, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Harborne NR, Nether- ton Res, Norton, Oldswinford, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Sheepwash UP and Wergs. 1993 Addendum

Warks A sixth pair bred in the north of the county, rearing two young.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeder since 1992. Warks In the north of the county, what presumably was the same immature male visited Ladywalk and Hams Hall on January 26th per SLC and February 10th SMH, while a bird was seen at Green End, Fillongley on the unusually late date of June 15th SMH. An adult female was watched eating a pigeon in a field at Shustoke on September 25th BLK, with an immature female there on October 1st SMH, BLK. Another was watched stooping at Lapwings at Dost- hill on September 29th ARD, with an immature male chasing Stock Doves at Kingsbury rifle range on October 6th SMH. Finally, a single bird was hunting Woodpigeons and Lapwings at Dosthill on December 21st SMH and 27th JKAA, JL, KW, and at Lea Marston on 31st SMH. At Draycote, there was a male on January 26th and February 2nd, single immatures on February 18th and July 23rd, a large immature female from September 16th-October 30th, with another immature on November 29th and joined by an adult on December 1st many obs. A single bird hunted in the Brandon area on several dates from January 15th-February 3rd BMCG. Away from Draycote and the north, there were singles at Temple Pool during January 1st-22nd SB with the same bird at nearby Compton Wynyates on 7th RE, TP, Napton Fields (male) on February 11th JJB, Farnborough (immature female) on March 10th JJB, Meon Hill MDBs and Napton Hill SMH on August 31st, Kenilworth (male) on September 24th PFA, Fenny Compton Hills (male) on October 13th JJB, Winderton (immature) on 20th TP, Wormleighton Res on December 17th JJB, JW and hunting roosting Woodpigeons at Waverley Wood on 26th per SMH. Worcs At least one pair bred in the county, and pairs were present at two other potential breeding sites during the spring. Elsewhere, birds were seen regu- 53

larly throughout the year at Bredon's Hardwick, Timberhonger, Upton Warren and Westwood sev. obs. Singles were also noted at: Bishampton Vale Pool and GC, on January 4th, August 21st and October 24th WFP; Bitted, on February 29th and August 10th KGC, RJW; Bredon Hill, on January 26th and October 17th PFW; Bretforton, on February 17th CET, MET; Cookley, on April 21st BW; Defford, on September 29th KH; Holt, on November 30th MJI; Martley, on March 16th AP; North Hill, on September 28th and October 14th SMW; Ripple, on December 24th SMW; Strensham, on December 22nd GHP; Throckmorton, on November 23rd MJI; Webheath, on January 21 st and February 7th TMH per RAH; Welland, two mobbing a large accipiter on December 2nd SRJB; and finally, Wythall on March 3rd PAC. Staffs A pair present at a confidential site from March 23rd laid three eggs but failed to hatch any young, possibly due to disturbance. Most sightings came from Belvide (77 dates in all months except for May-July, max. three on September 17th per SJ) and Blithfield (29 dates, during January-February and August- December). Elsewhere reports came from: Alrewas GP, an immature male on October 13th ICW, MY, and one on December 27th PDH; Aqualate, on April 16th FCG; Barton GP, on December 1st PDH; Beech, an adult female on June 1st and one on August 9th WJL; Camp Bank, on February 7th DAE; Chasewater, an immature male on August 25th ICW, MY and immature female on November 2nd ICW; Croxall, an immature on January 14th ESC; Musden, an adult female on September 9th AH; Orchard Common area, an adult pair on June 2nd MY and September 14th ICW; Stone, on August 23rd MDB; Swallow Moss, an adult male on March 3rd NC; and Westport, one on July 23rd and an immature from December 21st-28th WJL. W Mid A good series of records came from Fens Pools, with a female on February 1st SE, a pair on May 25th SE, BMM, a male on July 20th BMM and a female on September 7th SE. Otherwise records came from: Bartley, on August 9th AN; Bilston, an adult flew over Bow Street on August 18th FD; llley, a male over the M5 motorway on June 13th JJB; Netherton Hill, on October 17th CJT; Park Lime Pits, on February 9th AKD; Sheepwash UP, on November 23rd AGW; Valley Park, singles on February 8th (chasing Redwings) and August 7th VPBG; and Wishaw Lane area, an adult male on October 12th (chasing a Cockatiel!) and November 2nd SMH.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Frequent, though declining, resident on North Staffs Moors. Staffs Only four reports received, with birds noted at Baldstones NR, Knolbury (four pairs on May 24th), Morridge and Swallow Moss (seven roosting on February 24th and a family of six juveniles on August 12th).

Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix Scarce and decreasing resident, now restricted to the North Staffs Moors. Staffs As last year all records again came from the sole remaining lekking ground at Swallow Moss. Here the maximum number of males counted was six (as in 1995), on April 8th and May 27th; but there was disappointingly only one record of a female attending them, on February 25th. 54

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Cuiumon resident. Warks The best covies were of 20 at Fenny Compton on February 14th, 14 at Alve- cote on March 3rd, 17 at both Dosthill on September 8th and Shustoke on 22nd, 16 at Gaydon on December 9th, and 40 in the Shustoke village/Church End area on 27th. Reports came from a total of 36 localities. Worcs Reported from 25 localities, including Upton Warren where normally scarce. The largest coveys were of 55 near Stanford Bridge on January 1 st, 20 on Bredon Hill on September 1st and 50 at Kinsham on December 16th. The last of these was certainly the result of captive releases for shooting. Staffs The largest covies were all reported from the south-east, with 25 near Catton on February 27th, 11 at Doveleys on June 10th and 26 at Elford on December 15th. W Mid Presumably bred as usual in the Wiggins Hill/Wishaw Lane area, where the largest covies were of 12 on February 13th and November 26th. Fewer records from elsewhere than usual possibly indicating a continued decline; with only singles at Sheepwash UP (on adjacent tip) on April 7th (the first there for over a year at this former breeding site), on Netherton Hill on April 20th-21st, and in a Four Oaks garden on June 29th. April appears to be the month to find stray 'migrants'!

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Still common, though much declined resident. Warks A big increase in breeding season records was encouraging, with reports from: BAD Kineton, Baginton, Bishops Itchington, Butlers Marston, Chads- hunt, Compton Wynyates, Dosthill, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Flecknoe, Hurley STW (two pairs), Kingsbury, Lighthome, Marlcliff, Middleton, Napton Holt and Res, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Southam, Stoneton, Whatcote (bred) and Winderton. Records from outside this period came from 12 further sites, with the largest covey being a very good 27 at Over Whitacre on October 6th, with also 14 at Priors Marston on February 11th, 11 at Piccadilly (Kingsbury) on November 9th, ten at Baginton on December 15th and 11 at Fenny Compton on 21st. One at Ladywalk on November 15th was the first there for two years. Worcs Seen in the breeding season at: Abberton, Bishampton Vale, Broad Marston, Crowle, Kinsham, Larford, Lower Moor, North Piddle, Ombersley, Severn Stoke, Stoke Bliss, Throckmorton and Timberhonger. Outside the breeding season other records came from Aston Mill, Mount Segg, Ryall, Upton Warren and Wilden. The largest coveys reported were of 13 at Bredon's Hardwick on January 4th, 13 at Ryall on October 5th and November 9th, and 23 at Larford on October 31 si. Staffs The only breeding records received came from Seighford (two adults and 30 young) and Silverdale (a pair with 11 young). The largest covies consisted of 12 in the Blue Hills area of the northern moorlands on January 12th, 16 at Elford on 13th and 16 at Prestwood on February 8th. W Mid One on Netherton Hill on May 25th was the only record. 55

Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer resident in fluctuating numbers, but usually uncommon. Very rare in winter. Average: May 6th (9)-August 27th (6) Avery poor year, with the least number of reports since 1976. Warks A male calling at Whatcote on June 12th TP. Worcs Single calling males at Eckington from June 6th-15th JRH, SMW and at Timberhonger on July 4th JR. Staffs The first year without a record since 1976.

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, but mainly in rural areas. Warks Few reports as usual. Two broods were seen at Ladywalk; while albinos were there in March and December, and at Wormleighton in June and llmington in September. Worcs The only party reported was 30 at Arley on December 5th. Now very scarce at Upton Warren where formerly reasonably common. Staffs No significant records received. W Mid Small numbers reported from: Bickenhill, one on January 14th; Dunstall Park, a male heard throughout April; Harborne NR, a pair on May 5th were the first locally for many years; llley, small numbers all year; Minworth SF, several calling males in breeding season; Netherton Hill, single females during April and from October-December; Sandwell Valley, a pair seen occasionally from January 22nd-April 8th and a female visiting a feeding station there from December 13th-31st; Whitley Grove in Coventry, a male on April 25th; and Woodgate Valley, three territorial males out of a population estimated at 12-20 individuals.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Rare feral visitor, mainly through local releases (4/10). Staffs A pair were seen in the Coton Clanford/Seighford area on March 8th.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon breeding resident. Warks Apparently fewer than last year, perhaps as a result of the severe cold during the early months. Breeding was proven as usual at Brandon (but by only one pair), while an adult accompanied by a juvenile was seen at Middleton Hall on July 27th. Up to five at Brandon and three at Ladywalk outside the breeding season, with one or two at Charlecote, Dosthill, Draycote, Earls- wood, Kingsbury, Lower Radbourn, Middleton, Napton Res, Riversley Park (Nuneaton), Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. Worcs At least three pairs bred at Upton Warren, and a pair possibly did so at Westwood where a juvenile was seen in late August. Outside the breeding season up to 15 were present at Upton Warren and four at Westwood, with others at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Hewell Grange, Lower Moor, Oakley, Ripple and Wilden. Staffs At least eight pairs bred on the Doxey CBC, a figure similar to last year 56

suggesting that total numbers there remain stable. Outside the breeding season birds were seen in eight months al Belvide, with further singles at Alre- was, Betley Mere, Calwich (R.Dove), Chasewater, Handsacre Flashes and Pool Dam Marsh (Newcastle), while two were at Copmere on February 18th. WMid During the period January-April there were regular records from Mushroom Green Marsh (max. four), Pensnett (Stourbridge Canal), Sheepwash UP (max. three) and Whitley in Coventry (R.Sherbourne), with birds for shorter periods at Buckpool, Bumble Hole (two), Edgbaston Park, Fens Pools, Netherton Hill, Sandwell Valley and Valley Park (Smestow Brook). Autumn birds started to arrive at Mushroom Green Marsh from early September with numbers peaking at five on November 9th. Elsewhere there was one in Edgbaston Park on October 19th, while during November-December up to two were at both Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP, with one at Fens Pools.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor, which has bred (7/10). These two records coincide with a pronounced peak in autumn records nationwide. Warks A juvenile was seen briefly at Wormleighton Res on September 2nd JJB. Worcs One at Strensham Lagoons on September 1st-2nd REH et al. The second year in succession that there has been a record from this site.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident. Warks Little information regarding breeding success. 11 nesting pairs were located on 941 hectares of mixed farmland in Fenny Compton parish, mainly on small field ponds. Maxima included 36 at Coombe, 34 at Alvecote, 30 at Seeswood Pool, 25 at Wormleighton Res, 22 at Coton, 20 at Farnborough Park and Ladywalk, 19 at Brandon and 18 at Sutton-under-Brailes. Worcs Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D Bittell 18 8 - 9 11 6 17 37 41 39 32 25 Pirton 15 13 14 12 8 12 16 17 29 27 15 12 Upton Warren 15 14 10 14 27 23 12 19 30 19 25 6

Breeding records came from: Alfrick, Bittell, Chaddesley Wood, Conderton Pool, Dodford, North Piddle, Strensham, Tlmberhonger, Upton Warren (13 pairs) and along the Worcester Canal. Staffs Breeding records include 11 juveniles counted at Ford Green and four broods at Kettlebrook Lake, while only five pairs bred at Doxey; a situation put down to Mink (Mustela vison) predation. The largest counts were of 25 at Hill Ridware on February 18th, 34 at Ford Green on November 25th and 23 on the R.Churnet at Alton on 30th. WMid The few breeding records came from: Bilston (Grapes Pool), Minworth SF, Park Lime Pits (a poor season reported), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Valley Park (Staffs and Worcs Canal) and in Willenhall (Neachells Branch Canal). Maxima included 33 along the Staffs and Worcs Canal in Valley Park on 57

February 10th, a very noteworthy 52 in the Bumble Hole/Warrens Hall area on December 16th, and ten at Park Lime Pits on 23rd.

Coot Fulica atra Common resident and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0 Colon 1000 623 217 334 814 746 Dostliill 170 489 142 - 31 649 773 1300 1527 Draycote 1100 1200 255 150 32 •16 66 303 692 2200 1335 2050 Bittell 28 9 - 18 19 24 56 77 83 55 69 65 Lower Moor 70 50 60 20 12 11 20 35 45 62 62 60 Plrton 121 106 95 90 48 67 125 207 303 261 161 123 Upton Warren 40 43 38 35 64 52 80 90 35 20 18 13 Westwood - - - - 44 168 244 204 120 21 15 38 Wilden 60 59 26 24 24 24 36 - 46 - 6 - Aqualate 2 7 15 28 22 63 200 248 215 22 1 2 Barton GP 105 127 82 74 73 101 129 105 290 367 172 96 Betley Mere 134 24 23 43 - 58 162 171 175 214 224 266 Belvide 110 170 200 65 50 300 658 610 798 703 20 34 Blithfield 64 59 38 77 101 217 346 656 896 Branston WP 315 430 167 58 45 49 190 273 213 136 194 231 ChasBwater 831 510 224 75 80 81 246 332 447 639 742 859 Croxall GP 74 44 56 78 77 68 127 192 207 224 313 246 Elford GP 262 222 91 72 46 68 180 256 221 214 176 276 Kettlebrook 33 33 45 27 32 26 23 33 30 27 27 36 Tittesworth 2 7 11 20 22 10 - - - - Westport 128 98 32 27 26 26 51 87 106 - - Bumble Hole area 87 125 68 - 56 55 62 77 68 49 58 Sandwell Valley 100 172 108 46 32 41 64 97 135 149 142 117

Warks Breeding pairs included four at Ladywalk and five-six at both Farnborough Park and around Lighthorne. Breeding success was reported to be poor at several sites across the county, eg. four pairs at Wormleighton Res could raise only one young between them. Other maxima included 112 at Kingsbury WP, 100 at Jubilee Pools and 66 at Ladywalk in January, 87 at Alvecote and 85 at Napton Res in October, with 91 at Abbots Salford and 165 at Shustoke in December Worcs Broods noted at: Beckford (two), Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick (two), Grimley, Ipsley Alders, Kinsham, Larford (three), Lodge Park, Lower Moor, Timberhonger, Upton Warren (eight), Westwood (12) and Wilden (six). Away from tabulated sites small numbers were seen in many places, with maxima of 50 at Larford on January 28th and 30 at Bredon's Hardwick on March 30th. Staffs Widespread reports of breeding were received. 71 were counted at Stowe Pool (Lichfield) on February 10th. W Mid Reports of breeding pairs received from: Bilston (Grapes Pool), Brookvale Park, Clayhanger, Edgbaston Res (two), Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge (seven), Minworth SF (at least eight), Netherton (Dudley Canal), Park Lime Pits (four), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park (on all pools), Willenhall (Neachells Branch Canal), Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough. Away from tabulated sites, the main concentrations were at Fens Pools, with late and early winter maxima of 210 and 155 respectively; and Wyken Slough, with 105 in December. 58

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce breeder, mainly in the valleys of the R. Trent and R. Tame. Warks The first bird arrived back in the Tame valley on February 11th, with three from 18th. Two pairs subsequently summered in the area, one of which reared two young, with the last record coming on July 21st. The largest party reported here was six at Dosthill on April 7th. Records again ranged south to Ladywalk (eight dates) and Shustoke. Elsewhere in the county, seen much more frequently this year at Draycote; with birds on 15 spring dates from March 19th-June 2nd (max. four on April 5th), and 16 autumn dates from July 24th- November 17th (max. six on August 2nd). Other records involved singles at Alvecote on March 3rd, Fenny Compton on 19th, Ansley GC on 23rd, Brandon on April 21st and 27th, and Earlswood on August 8th. Worcs Returned to Bredon's Hardwick on February 29th, with a pair then present from March 28th-July 4th and one on July 30th. A second pair was present from May 2nd-12th. A breeding attempt may have taken place, but there was no evidence of a successful outcome. Elsewhere, three were at Bitted on March 9th, followed by singles on April 8th and May 6th, two on September 26th, and further singles on October 22nd and November 22nd. Singles also at Upton Warren on March 20th and 24th, May 6th and 13th, with two on August 8th and October 4th, and one on November 21 st. Further singles flew down the R.Severn south of Worcester on March 28th, and visited Larford on August 3rd and a playing field by Droitwich Sports Centre on December 10th. Staffs Monthly maxima at main sites: J F M A M J J A s O N D Barton - 2 4 4 4 2 4 Belvide 1 - 2 4 4 2 - 1 3 - - - Blithfield 1 - 2 2 3 2 1 17 1 - 1 - Branston - - - 1 2 1 Chasewater - 4 1 - - - 2 - - 1 Croxall - 3 3 2 6 4 6 Elford - - a 10 8 14 3 Tittesworth - - 1 1 1 2 2 Successful breeding was reported from Elford and Croxall, with five and two young raised respectively, while a pair may also have nested in the Anslow/ Needwood area. Away from tabulated sites, a peak of five were seen in the Drayton Bassett/Dosthill north area on March 31 st, with singles also at Alre- was, Betley Mere, Gnosall, Kings Bromley, Mill Meece and Westport. WMid A pair summered at Berkswell GP, with birds present from mid-April but with no proof of breeding. Birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on March 19th, during April (two), and on May 5th, 12th, 18th-19th and 28th (two). Three were at Bartley on March 26th with two still present next day, while singles were at Fens Pools on March 20th and Meriden GP on April 24th.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant (7/10). Warks One at Ladywalk for ten minutes on March 25th AGM, was the 202nd species for the reserve. Five appeared at Draycote on May 19th GIG, PDH, MJI, GJM. 59

Worcs A pair were at Bittell on March 13th GHP, WFP et al. and one at Lower Moor on May 19th RAP. These were the first county records since 1988 and also new for the respective localities.

Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Rare vagrant, though bred south Worcs and probably south Warks until mid- 19th century (2/10). The second successive year that this species has occurred in Worcs, but only the sixth or seventh record in the Region this century. How many others have gone undiscovered in the under-watched southern Cotswold fringe? Worcs One was watched beside the old airstrip at Defford on April 21st KH et al.

Collared Pratincole Glariola pratincola Very rare vagrant (1/10). This remarkable bird, which could be easily identified by a missing right tail streamer, was later relocated at Earls Barton GP, Northants from May 13th- 25th before moving to the Dutch Polders. It then summered on the North Sea coasts commuting between the Netherlands and sites in East Yorkshire, Norfolk and Suffolk up to late July. Warks One was present at Draycote on May 12th-13th PJF et al., the first county and occond Regional record.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Average: March 20th (32) - October 3rd (32) The first in spring appeared at Ladywalk on March 14th, with the main movement occurring from 19th. Few were seen in autumn after mid-September, though one lingered at Chasewater up to the late date of October 23rd. Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A s 0 Dosthill/Kingsbury 4 6 6 6 5 - - - Draycote 7 4 3 3 13 10 5 - Bittell 3 5 2 2 1 - - Bredon's Hardwick 5 9 3 - 1 - 1 - Grimley 3 6 4 5 5 1 1 - Kinsham 4 6 5 - 5 - - - Uplon Warren 10 14 18 25 30 9 4 - Barton GP 10 10 12 12 4 1 1 - Belvide 6 14 8 4 4 5 5 - Blithfield 3 8 5 2 19 16 5 - Chasewater 2 7 6 2 2 1 - 1 Croxall GP - 8 6 6 19 4 - _ Tittesworth 1 4 2 4 7 7 6 - Berkswell GP 6 6 s 1 1 - - Sandwell Valley 3 7 7 10 14 1 - - Sheepwash UP 5 4 3 3 2 1 - - Warks Breeding only proved at Dosthill where at least one of three pairs present raised young, and Ladywalk where two pairs nested but only one young raised. Probably also nested at Brandon where up to four present and in the far south-west of the county at Salford Priors GP, where five were seen in August. Up to five were displaying in April at both Whitacre Heath (probably 60

including birds from nearby Ladywalk) and Blyth Hall, while single pairs were present during the breeding season at Alvecote and The Somers. On passage, up to three were in the Shustoke area in May and at Earlswood Lakes in August, with one or two at Abbots Salford, Bermuda, Charlecote, Jubilee Pools and Ufton Fields. Worcs Bred at Bittell, where a brood of three failed to fledge; and Upton Warren, where nine pairs produced 16 chicks, seven of which fledged successfully. Small numbers on passage also noted at Holt, Larford, Lower Moor, Ryall, Strensham and Wilden. Staffs The only breeding records involved pairs at Belvide (one, four young), Doxey (two, one with two young) and Tittesworth (at least one, three young), though others must surely have bred at the major GP complexes. Away from tabulated waters small numbers also present during spring and summer at Alrewas GP (four in July), Branston (max. five in June), Dosthill north/Drayton Bassett GP (max. six in May), Doxey (max. ten in June), Elford GP (max. four in April), Hill Ridware (max. four in May) and Westport (max. two). More unusually, there were singles at Needwood on July 17th and Crossplains on August 25th. W Mid Bred at: Berkswell GP (three pairs reared seven young), Dunstall Park Lake (three pairs reared three young), Meriden GP, Sandwell Valley (two pairs) and Sheepwash UP (two pairs reared one young). Also reported on territory at Minworth SF but breeding success unknown. On passage small numbers were reported from: Bartley, three on April 9th, one on 16th, two on May 5th and one on 17th; Bilston, one on the former steelworks site on May 27th; Fens Pools, two on April 11th and singles on 21st, 27th and June 30th; Netherton Res, one on April 14th; and Stubber's Green, up to three from March 27th until late April.

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 O N D Dosthill/Kingsbury 1 1 4 2 12 5 ------Draycote - 4 7 4 8 3 10 18 26 8 - - Bittell - - 1 1 - - - 1 6 - - - Bredon's Hardwick - - 5 5 1 1 - 5 3 - 1 - Upton Warren - - 2 1 9 4 1 4 4 - 1 - Alrewas GP - 1 2 - - - 1 - - - - - Barton GP - 5 16 12 8 9 14 1 - - - Belvide - 1 3 10 8 1 - 12 19 1 - 1 Blithfield - - 7 e 3 2 2 40 39 - - Branston - - - 3 1 2 - - - - Chasewaler - - 1 8 13 1 1 8 2 4 - Croxall GP - 4 10 4 6 4 5 - - - - - Rudyard 1 4 - - - Tittesworth - - - - 2 1 - 1 4 - - -

Warks A pair probably nested as usual in the Dosthill area, though no information was forthcoming on the outcome; while a pair summered again at Brandon but with no apparent success. Display was also noted at Draycote. Records in the two main areas ran from February 18th-October 27th, apart from an 61

exceptional midwinter bird at Dosthill on January 6th PDH. A poor year in the Tame valley, with the only reasonable flock being of 12 on May 19th. A better year at Draycote where autumn maxima of 18 on August 15th, 26 on Septem- ber 1st, 17 on 2nd and 16 on 9th. Away from the main areas there were just spring singles at Ladywalk on April 1 st and May 1 st, 6th and 28th; but remarkably one was spotted by a sharp-eyed observer flying over Meon Hill on August 31st SMH. Worcs Away from the main sites the only records came from Grimley, singles on March 18th and September 7th; and Kinsham, up to two from March 24th- May 1 st and one on August 26th. Staffs No information about breeding success. Birds returned in spring on February 15th, while an exceptionally late bird was seen at Belvide on December 12th. Away from the main sites in May, up to five were at Drayton Bassett GP and two at Elford GP, while a bird at Aqualate on 28th was the first there for twenty years. WMid A pair summered at Berkswell GP and may possibly have attempted breeding, though a juvenile here on August 25th was thought to have been a passage bird. Also on passage noted at: Dunstall Park Lake, two on April 10th and from August 19th-25th, with one staying to 27th; Edgbaston Res, one on August 26th; Fens Pools, one on March 20th; Sandwell Valley, one on March 22nd, two on 27th, and then singles on 29th, April 7th, May 15th, 19th and 26th, August 31st and from September 1st-4th; and Stubber's Green, two on April 1st.

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce and perhaps now erratic breeder on North Staffs Moors. Average: August 11th (48) - April 28th (50) Away from the northern moorlands, extreme dates were May 10th at Hampton-on-the-Hill (Warks) and August 20th at Bittell. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A S O N D Chesterton - - 400 ------440 60 Dosthill area 100 - 550 16 - - - 1 - 40 - Draycote 300 30 30 14 - - - 20 455 470 500 Fenny Comp'on-Wormleighton 40 - 250 100 - - - - 250 280 375 65 Wetlesboume Airfield - 400 ------1000 3500 Bredon's Hardwick 300 450 200 70 - - - 1 17 180 245 Lower Moor 260 150 10 2 34 400 20 Upton Warren 13 41 26 2 - - - 30 1 19 20 Barton 67 50 - 3 210 235 Belvide 5 11 75 39 - - 2 48 225 - Crossplains - 3 60 130 - - 2 23 110 120 Park Halt - 180 138 385 - Slaflord Common 600 300 - Hockley Heath 60 500 Sandwell Valley eo - 200 280 - 2 - 180 450 Sheepwash UP 24 - 20 8 - - 25 - - Warks Again poorly reported, wilh several traditional localities almost undocu- mented. Away from tabulated areas, counts included maxima of 150 at Brandon on January 15th and March 29th, 400 at Coombe on January 21st, 62

200 at Hodnell on March 17th, 400 at Black Hill on 24th, 200 at Northend on October 19th, 200 at BAD Kineton on 23rd, 810 at Bubbenhall on 27th, 100 at Compton Verney on December 2nd, with smaller flocks fairly widespread in the eastern half of the county. Two exceptional counts involved 3050 at Grandborough on April 2nd and 3500 at Wellesbourne Airfield on December 1 st. In spring present into late April, with a late summer-plumaged bird near Hampton-on-the-Hill on May 10th. Worcs Well reported, with birds at 24 localities in addition to those tabulated. Most records referred to small numbers, but larger counts included 300 near Defford on January 3rd, 100 at Kinsham on March 22nd, 75 at Croome on April 5th, 230 on Bredon Hill on October 12th, 250 over Strensham on 13th, 80 at Baughton on November 2nd, 114 at Ryall on 9th, 286 at Little Comber- ton on 12th, 370 at Temeside Way on 29th, 65 at Bittell, 126 at Holt and 188 at Powick Ham all on December 1st, with 200 at Callow End on 2nd. Staffs A pair bred at one site on the northern moorlands. Apart from 300 at Hixon on April 7th only small flocks were noted away from tabulated sites, with maxima of 15 at Alrewas and 21 at Whitemoor Hay in January, 19 at Doxey in Feb- ruary (where roosting numbers were poor due to disturbance), 90 at Drayton Bassett in March, 39 at Morridge on April 30th, 80 at Fradley Airfield and 56 over Westport in October, and 76 at Branston, 40 at Chasewater, 21 at Croxall, 18 at Denstone and 26 at Rickerscote, all in December. W Mid Away from tabulated sites also present regularly again at Bowman's Harbour in Wednesfield, where numbers peaked at 644 on March 21st and 1300 on December 13th. A good number of other more casual sightings were reported including maxima of 35 over Fens Pools on January 2nd, 70 flying south over Darlaston on 11th, 600 at Stubber's Green on 17th, 120 in three flocks moving north-west over Bilston on February 19th, 335 at Wishaw Lane (Minworth) on March 23rd and 209 there on 29th, 70 flying south-west over Valley Park on April 15th, 22 on the old Bilston steelworks site on 22nd, 60 in two flocks moving north over Park Lime Pits on October 15th, 120 near Bickenhill on November 27th and 200 circling over fields near Earlswood on December 6th.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks An influx during the January cold spell produced three at Coton and one at Ladywalk on 1 st, two at Dosthill and one at Draycote on 6th, and singles at Shustoke on 20th and Lower Radbourn on 21 st. An early spring bird appeared at Draycote on March 24th, followed by summer-plumaged adults at Draycote on May 11th-12th and Dosthill on 14th. On return passage, a moulting adult at Wormleighton Res on September 2nd was followed by three at Draycote on 14th and singles there on 22nd and October 18th. Worcs Three were on the ice at Bittell on January 1st, followed by one at Bredon's Hardwick on March 12th. Upton Warren had a good year, with single adults on May 17th, 19th and 21st, and a juvenile on September 21st. The year ended with singles at Bittell on November 12th and 15th. Staffs Cold weather during the early months produced singles in the Alrewas/Croxall GP area on January 1st, and at Belvide from 22nd-26th, Westport on 27th, 63

Alrewas GP again on February 1st and Belvide on 14th. Belvide also produced the first spring passage bird on March 23rd, followed by other singles at Doxey on April 4th and 8th, Blithfield on 10th and 13th, Belvide from May 19th-22nd, Chasewater also on 22nd, with two at Tittesworth on 20th. The first return bird occurred at Rudyard on August 27th, followed at Blithfield by one on September 8th, three on 9th and 11th, one from 13th-20th, two from 22nd-27th and two more on October 5th, when a single also appeared at Chasewater. Belvide produced singles on October 3rd, 8th-9th and from 12th- 21st, with a final bird on November 16th-17th. Also during November, singles appeared at Westport on 14th and Blithfield on 16th.

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Fairly common, though declining, breeding species. A worrying decline in both breeding and wintering populations is apparent from the available data. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Dosthill/Kingsbury 230 300 1000 ------920 126 2100 Draycote 1000 600 500 - - 8 125 400 220 400 750 300 Bittetl 196 185 200 1 4 50 59 171 141 203 470 668 Lower Moor 150 24 39 1 2 - • - - 61 270 150 20 Upton Warren 1580 500 1200 31 31 120 290 405 350 510 825 1000 Wilden 70 8 - - 8 - - 240 130 164 - - Barton 850 230 740 6 16 28 185 740 45 690 295 590 Belvide - 260 134 - - - 200 1000 500 933 1500 - Blithfield 60 42 100 14 14 42 827 1140 648 407 940 168 Branston 84 1 723 12 7 8 170 271 232 200 312 400 Chasewater 233 12 - 4 4 7 98 80 12 190 320 800 Croxall 410 605 650 11 11 149 145 630 160 270 470 190 Doxey 1520 813 214 12 9 21 47 59 150 2B0 - - Kings Bromley 340 32 125 4 1 16 131 460 520 125 13 85 Tittesworth 7 40 240 12 8 100 200 300 60 50 23 - Dunstall Parte 97 62 - 2 - 41 170 280 250 200 600 220 Sandwell Valley 8 50 215 15 7 27 80 70 80 2 50 40 Stubber's Green 500 - - - - 25 - - - 106 85 36

Warks Nesting pairs reported from: Alvecote (two), Avon Dassett, Brandon (three), Charlecote (five), Dosthill (three), Farnborough (two), Fenny Compton (three), Gaydon (two), Ladywalk (seven), Packington (three-four), Radway (three), Stockton and Ufton Fields. Success was mixed but it seems many early broods were lost. Maxima elsewhere were well down on even last year with very few flocks of over 300; these included 500 at Chesterton on March 15th, 630 at Brandon on August 16th, 500 at Wormleighton Res on September 3rd, 400 at Fenny Compton on October 23rd and 800 at Knight- cote on 26th. Worcs Breeding pairs at: Aston Mill Pit (two), Bittell (failed), near Grafton Wood (two), Hollywood (two), Horsham (two), Kinsham (six), Overbury, Strensham (36 juveniles seen in June), Tlmberhonger, Upton Warren (15) and Wilden (two). Several flocks of up to 200 birds reported, but the largest were 850 at Bredon's Hardwick on January 6th, 460 at Grimley on September 4th and 500 at Holt on November 30th. 64

Staffs Few breeding pairs reported, with records only trom Aqualate (eight-ten), BelviUe (nine chiokc coen), Caltnn Moor. Qoxey (ten on the CBC, where a good season reported), Ellastone (three) and Stanton (two). On the northern moorlands JAL reported that although fewer pairs were present this year there was better breeding success. At the main study site three pairs laid 20-22 eggs in six attempts and reared seven young, compared to two pairs rearing three young from 16 eggs in 1995, and three pairs rearing three young from 22 eggs in 1994. Away from tabulated sites post-breeding and winter flocks were generally low, with maxima of only 200 at Rickerscote and Stafford Common in January, 270 at Park Hall in July, 250 at Rudyard in September, and 300 at both Aqualate and Gnosall in November. W Mid Breeding was only recorded from: Berkswell GP, four pairs reared about five young but suffered heavily from Lesser Black-backed Gull predation; Sandwell Valley, at least ten pairs as usual but fledging success unknown; and Sheepwash UP, three-four pairs attempted but were met with high levels of disturbance. Four young which were hatched there on May 13th were amazingly picked up by a passer-by, who in the mistaken belief that they had been abandoned took them to the RSPCA, where they were subsequently 'put down'! In addition probable breeding pairs were reported from the Coundon Wedge (four) and Minworth SF. Peak counts at Sheepwash UP were 75 in January and 79 in December, while other flocks included 165 over Fens Pools on January 27th, 100 at Berkswell GP on August 17th, 100 at Park Lime Pits from September 20th-30th, and 200 flying south over Finham (Coventry) on December 17th.

Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. A small influx in mid-November was noteworthy. Warks Singles at Draycote on January 22nd and March 15th, two on May 1st, with further singles on September 7th-8th and on December 14th and 21st. The only other record was of three at Shustoke on November 16th. Worcs An unexpected late autumn influx produced four at Bittell on November 15th, with singles there on 17th and December 11th. Singles also appeared at Bredon's Hardwick and Upton Warren on November 16th, Lower Moor on 23rd and Kinsham on December 12th. Staffs Two at Chasewater on March 17th were the first in spring, closely followed by singles at Blithfield on 24th and Belvide on 29th. In April singles appeared at Tittesworth, Chasewater and Blithfield on 7th, with the latter two staying to 9th and 14th respectively; with further birds at Belvide on 23rd and Chasewater on 29th. The first return bird was at Barton GP on July 23rd, with other singles at Blithfield from August 7th-15th, and at Belvide on August 12th and September 9th. Two then visited Tittesworth on September 13th, with singles at Blithfield from 13th-15th and October 2nd-4th. In mid-November, two at Belvide on 15th had increased to three on 16th, with two remaining next day, while two were also at Blithfield from 16th-18th. W Mid Two singles reported; in summer plumage at Sheepwash UP for ten minutes on July 21st, and in Sandwell Valley on November 15th. Laughing Gull at Upton Warren in August. Only the second Regional record of this American gull and the first to be twitchable (lain Leach).

This confiding Sabine's Gull visited Blithfield in October (Phill Ward). The Little Auk is usually only a rare storm-driven autumn vagrant to the Region. This one frequented the canal at Great Haywood in Staffs during late October (lain Leach).

Long-eared Owl. A scarce and very elusive breeding bird, this juvenile was photographed at a regular site on Cannock Chase in June (Phill Ward). 65

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 13th (7) - October 1st (7) Warks A poor spring at Draycote where after an early single on April 8th, the only later records were of two on May 18th and four on 19th. A better passage at Dosthill, where birds were noted on May 11th (two-three), 19th, 20th (two), 26th (two), 28th and on June 1st and 8th. On return passage apart from two at Coton on September 21st, all records came from Draycote. Here there were two on August 13th and singles on September 12th, 18th-20th and October 11th; with very late birds on November 12th and December 21st (two). Worcs Singles at Bredon's Hardwick on April 16th and May 12th, with one at Beck- ford on the unusual date of December 28th TMH. Staffs A good spring passage, particularly at Chasewater where after singles on April 10th and 25th, there were two on April 30th and May 12th, three on 13th, two on 17th, one on 19th, a party of 17 on 20th, five on 21st, two on 22nd, singles on 23rd and 26th, and finally, three on June 1st. Other May records came from Westport on 10th, Drayton Bassett GP on 12th, Blithfield (three) and Dosthill north GP (two) on 19th, Barton GP and Belvide on 20th, with two at the latter on 21st, and Tittesworth Irom 22nd-25th. The only return records involved one at Belvide on August 1st, two at Blithfield on September 19th with one staying to 29th, and a final bird there on October 13th. W Mid One at Berkswell GP on May 1 st.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant, in variable numbers. Scarce in spring and rare in winter. Average passage: May 11th (7) - November 6th (7) Easterly winds brought an amazing influx of juveniles into Britain from mid- September, with our Region having easily its best ever year. There is no way of estimating total numbers, but a minimum of 4-500 must have occurred. Warks Single spring birds were at Draycote on May 5th and Dnsthill on 20th and 22nd. The incredible autumn passage was concentrated at Draycote where the first bird arrived on September 14th and birds were then present regularly until December. Numbers fluctuated daily but there were 13 on 15th, 14 on 16th, increasing to 32 on 19th, 48 on 20th, 55 on 21st and an incredible 75 early on 22nd JJB. This was the peak and birds began to disperse during the morning dropping to 40 next day. A secondary peak of 58 occurred on 25th, dropping to 50 by 27th and 35 on 28th. Apart from 28 on October 1st-2nd, no more than 10-15 were then present until 5th, with numbers varying from two- five (max. seven on October 27th) present daily until November 23rd and a solitary bird remaining until December 8th. A thin scatter of records from elsewhere included singles at Earlswood Lakes on September 15th and Dosthill on 18th, three at Wormleighton Res on 20th-21st with one staying to 22nd, singles at Baginton Lagoons and Shustoke also on 22nd, and finally three at Brandon on 24th. Worcs One in spring, at Bredon's Hardwick on May 17th-18th. The incredible 66

autumn influx of juveniles started at Upton Warren, where there were three on September 14th, five on 15th, six on 16th-17th, seven on 20th, 17 on 21st, 19 on 22nd, 29 on 24th, and a county record total of 37 on 25th GG, AW. After this peak, numbers dropped quickly to 23 on 26th, 20 on 27th, 16 on 28th, 11 on 29th, four on October 1st, with the final one on 2nd. Bredon's Hardwick had four on September 17th, eight on 18th-19th, five on 20th, ten on 21st, eight on 22nd, increasing to 16 on 23rd, with 14 on 24th and final singles on October 12th-13th, and from 31st-November 5th. Grimley hosted five on September 17th, one on 24th and two on 25th. A run of records at Bittell started with four on September 19th, with five on 20th-21st, increasing to eight on 22nd and nine from 23rd-25th, dropping to just one on 26th-27th, with a final bird on October 18th. Meanwhile, three were found at Wilden on September 21st, rising to five on 22nd, six on 23rd, nine on 25th, and then reducing to five on 26th. Six were at Strensham from September 22nd-25th, ten at Ryall also on September 22nd and one there on October 5th. Staffs One at Belvide on May 19th was the only spring record. An early return adult at Blithfield on July 16th was the only bird to be seen before September 8th when the first of the exceptional autumn influx was seen there. Blithfield had the lion's share with high numbers present throughout the rest of the month, peaking at an astonishing 103 on September 27th, with birds dispersing rapidly during the first week in October and with the final bird on 28th. At Belvide, the influx began with 15 on September 18th, with numbers peaking at 22 on 21st. There were still 18 there on October 1st, but with numbers dwindling quickly to the last two on 8th. Chasewater produced one on September 10th and 14th, two on 15th, up to four from 17th-19th, 12-16 on 21st, nine on 22nd, up to six from 26th-29th, dropping to two on October 1st and one on four dates up to 13th. Tittesworth had two on September 20th, increasing to five on 21st, seven from 22nd-24th, eight on 25th and with five remaining to 30th. Elsewhere there were singles at Gerrards Bromley on September 21st and at both Doxey and Westport on 23rd. Two late records consisted of a single at Blithfield on December 6th and two at Alrewas GP on 15th. W Mid One at Swan Pool in Sandwell Valley on September 19th later moved to the RSPB reserve where it stayed until at least 22nd, followed by another on October 6th. Singles also appeared at Fens Pools and Dunstall Park Lake on September 20th, with two at the latter site from 24th-30th.

Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A summer-plumaged adult at Draycote on May 18th GIG, PDH.

White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis Very rare vagrant (1/10). The fourth Regional record of this rare nearctic wader, but the first away from Staffs. Previous records came from Blithfield in November-December 1979, Tittesworlh in July 1984 and Rudyard in November 1989. Worcs A juvenile was at Bredon's Hardwick on September 15th-16th SJH, WFP, 67

SMW et at. Initially identified al very iong range, some tactful diplomacy by the finders secured the landowner's permission to allow later arrivals to get a closer view. This was the first county record.

Baird's Sandpiper Calidris bairdii Very rare vagrant (0/10).

Baird's Sandpiper (Phil Jones)

The first Regional records of this transatlantic wader, which breeds across northern North America and into north-east Siberia, wintering mainly in South America. September is the 'classic' month for this species, with November records rather exceptional. Warks A juvenile at Draycote on September 28th CDB et al. was the first for the county. It subsequently transferred over to nearby Daventry Res in Northants, where it remained until October 2nd. See Short Notes. Staffs A juvenile was at Blithfield from November 2nd-7th BHI, MJH, RH, ICW et al. The first county record.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn (7/10). Staffs A juvenile was at Blithfield from September 18th-27th ESC, PDH et al.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Scarce in spring. Average passage: May 13th (5) - October 21st (7) As is usual when there are high numbers of Little Stints in the Region this species also has a good year, and this was one of the most productive on record. 68

Warks A summer-plumaged adult at Dosthill on May 19th was the only spring record. After a very poor autumn last year, this year's influx although largely confined to Draycote, was the best on record. It began with a solitary bird there on September 7th-8th, followed by eight on 14th rising to 22 next day. Up to 11 were then present for the next lew days, rising to 26 on 19th. 27 on 20th-21st and a county record of 28 on 22nd JJB. Numbers then varied from six-ten until October 3rd, apart from 14 on September 24th, 23 on 25th and down to 13 by 27th. Three more appeared on October 14th, with one remaining until November 3rd; but joined by a second bird on October 24th. The only autumn record from anywhere else in the county was of two at Dosthill on September 8th. Worcs Two at Upton Warren briefly on September 8th, were followed by one from 14th-21st, two on 22nd-23rd, and three from 24th-27th, with one remaining to October 3rd. An exceptionally late individual was at Bredon's Hardwick from November 9th-13th SJH, GHP. Staffs A summer-plumaged adult at Dosthill north GP (also in Warks) on May 19th provided the sole spring record. One at Tlttesworth on the odd date of June 19th, was followed by the first return records of two at Croxall GP on July 30th and one at Blithfield on August 4th. A good autumn passage then commenced at the latter site, with one on August 31 st, two on September 6th, four on 7th, increasing to 11 on 8th-9th and 14 on 11th, before dropping to 12 on 13th and five on 14th. A further influx then brought 15 on 15th, 20 on 17th, 15 on 18th, 14 on 19th, 20 on 20th, 18 on 21st-22nd and a peak of 25 on 25th. Numbers then dropped to seven on 27th, six on 29th, three on October 2nd, two on 4th and singles irregularly up to 23rd, but with three on 20th. Passage was less pronounced at Belvide, where up to three were present fairly regularly from September 8th-28th, with two on October 6th. The only other site to record this species was Tittesworth, with a single on September 21st.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Dosthill/Kingsbury 1 - 10 9 10 4 5 10 5 - - 1 Draycote 2 3 6 2 7 2 14 24 50 38 43 26 Bittell 3 - 3 - 1 - 1 1 1 1 15 3 Bredon's Hardwick 40 26 40 4 5 - 1 1 6 1 20 1 Upton Warren 4 1 6 6 6 - 11 5 6 3 7 2 Barton GP 1 - 3 2 8 - - 1 2 3 1 3 Belvide 4 1 9 13 11 5 10 19 14 21 2 Blithlield 13 29 25 8 3 23 22 62 52 68 2 Chasewater 4 3 3 11 17 1 3 8 2 3 9 6 Croxall GP 5 - - - - 1 4 1 - 1 Tittesworlh - - 2 5 - - 8 8 2 1 - Other sites (eight) - 1 7 4 8 - - 4 5 3 1 - Sandwell Valley 1 2 4 5 2 - - - 4 - 6 2 Sheepwash UP 1 - 2 1 1 - - - 1 - 5 -

Warks A good autumn passage at Draycote, with a peak of 50 on September 28th. Up to three also reported on various passage and winter dates in the north of the county at Alvecote, Baginton Lagoons, Brandon, Coton/Lea Marston and 69

Ladywalk, with maxima of eight at Shustoke on January 24th and nine at Middleton on March 24th. Elsewhere there were singles at Salford Priors GP on August 26th, Wormleighton Res on September 2nd-4th, 12th and 20th- 22nd, and Earlswood Lakes on September 15th-16th. . Worcs Away from the main sites there were singles at Holt on February 14th, Throckmorton on 18th and Grimley on March 16th, with two there on 31st, and singles again on May 19th and September 13th. Four were at Kinsham on March 17th, with two on 21st and two on May 4th. Further singles appeared at Larford on March 24th, Lower Moor on 30th, Wilden on April 20th, September 1st, 21st and October 5th; and at Westwood on September 1 st and December 22nd. There were three at Strensham on September 22nd and one at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 15th, with two there on 16th. Staffs Other sites to attract this species included Alrewas GP, Branston, Doxey, Drayton Bassett GP (max. six on May 12th), Rudyard and Westport. Less usual localities included one at Leycett NR near Silverdale on March 27th and two at a new GP near Coldmeece on April 15th. WMid Also recorded at Fens Pools, with two on January 27th, singles on March 17th and May 19th and two again on December 20th. One was at Dunstall Park Lake on March 24th-25th, with two on April 19th and further singles on August 20th, 31st and October 13th, with two on 14th and one on 17th. Bartley produced two on February 10th and one on 12th, with singles there on March 29th and November 15th, and at Berkswell GP on May 12th.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax Frequent passage migrant, though in variable numbers. Scarce in winter. Monthly maxima at main sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N D

Doslhill 1 1 - 5 Drayoote 1 1 1 6 37 15 1 1 Bredon's Hardwick 7 1 2 3 1 3 » - - Uplon Warren 1 1 _ _ 2 1 _ Barton GP 1 2 Belvide - - 1 1 - 3 4 10 1 - - Blithlleld 4 11 15 3 Rudyard 4

Warks An excellent autumn passage at Draycote, with regular records of small numbers from August 6th-October 15th. The main passage began on September 21st when 14 were present, rising to 37 next day. Numbers then varied from 14-20 until October 1st, dropping to nine next day. A single wintering bird at both ends of the year was notable. In stark contrast a very poor year was experienced in the once-favoured Tame valley, with single birds on only four spring dates, two on September 8th and up to five from 21 st-29th. During the latter period up to two were also recorded at Baginton Lagoons and Brandon. Worcs Other records involved two at Kinsham on March 21st; singles at Grimley on August 31st and from September 15th-17th; one at Ryall on September 7th; two at Bittell on September 21st and one on 24th; with one at Wilden from September 21st-25th. 70

Staffs Another relatively poor year, with the only other records being of singles at Croxall GP and Chasewater during September, the latter staying to October 5th. W Mid Three at Berkswell GP on August 25th were followed by another trio flying south-west over Goscote Valley on 29th. Singles were then noted at Dunstall Park Lake on September 4th, 17th and from 2bth-Ocluber 5th, while three were in Sandwell Valley briefly on September 20th.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Average: September 26th (55) - April 20th (51) Extreme dates were April 21 st at Upton Warren and September 21 st at Bittell. Monthly maxima at main sites: JFMAMJ JASQND Brandon 1 141 — — — — — — 1 1 Coton/Lea Marston 1 4------2 Abberton 4 4 4 2 - I - - - - 1 f Bittell 6 ______1 122 Castlemorton Common 2 1 1 _ _ _ - _ - - - 1 Upton Warren 7344--- - 2 162 Wilden -_-___-_ - 1 3 2 Belvide i 1 ------i 2 2 Blithfield 2 _____ - - _ 2 _ - Chasewater 2S6------221 Doxey 35------17- Pool Dam Mareh - 15 20 --- - - 1 - 8 Fens Pools i-i-_-_--iii Goscote Valley 121------44 Sandwell Valley 6841------22 Sheepwash UP 1 11------21

Warks Away from tabulated sites there were late winter/spring singles at Ladywalk on January 2nd, Whittleford CP on 28th, Alvecote on February 18th, Worm- leighton Res on March 18th, Draycote on April 7th and Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) on 8th. At Lighthome Quarry there were two on March 6th and one on 19th. Later in the year the only other records were of singles at Dray- cote on September 28th and December 28th, and by the R.Dene at Welles- bourne on December 30th-31st. Worcs Records away from tabulated sites came from: Ashmoor Common, one on January 30th, two on April 20th and one on December 28th; Grimley, one on February 25th and two on October 13th; Kemerton, one along the Carrant Brook on February 23rd; Lower Moor, one on February 25th and March 17th; Ripple, two on March 1st; and Ryall, one on November 9th. Staffs Single birds were also recorded on odd dates at Alrewas GP, Astonfields, Little Wyrley and Westport. W Mid Better numbers in Sandwell Valley after a couple of poor years, while Goscote Valley appears to be becoming a regular site. Away from the main haunts, there were singles in Valley Park on January 30th, February 1st and 4th, and at a small pool at the base of Netherton Hill from February 26th-March 12th. Two were in Brueton Park, Solihull on March 19th, while seven flushed in Sutton Park on 23rd was a good record. 71

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent though declining breeder. (

Common Snipe (Terry Parker)

Monthly maxima at main sites: J F M A M J J A s O N D Brandon 18 9 22 15 - 1 2 14 28 8 5 1 Draycote 7 12 18 3 - - 1 4 15 27 20 60 Abberton 12 21 7 3 - - - - - 5 4 1 Bittell 14 10 21 2 - - - 3 8 4 2 12 Casttemorton Common 33 27 19 15 - - - - - 2 17 36 Lower Moor 6 6 - 8 - - - - 3 - 12 1 Strensham - - 35 - - - 6 9 3 - 1 Upton Warren 84 65 60 15 2 5 12 37 27 36 16 Wilden 21 17 12 2 - - - 6 16 17 3 6 Belvide - 1 1 4 6 - 6 20 19 2 15 - Blith field - - 14 - - - 1 63 46 7 1 - Doxey 180 131 58 16 12 15 3 7 15 69 33 19 Ford Green 7 23 - 18 ------Pool Dam Marsh - 70 60 - - 2 22 17 50 - 60 Rudyard 14 5 - - - Goscote Valley 7 8 6 ------1 2 Sandwell Valley 41 33 36 4 2 - - 3 20 15 4 12 Sheepwash UP 16 16 30 18 1 - - 1 5 10 18 7

Warks No reports of drumming birds for the first time and away from tabulated sites the only breeding season records were of singles at Ladywalk and Salford Priors during May. Winter flocks continue to decline, eg at Ladywalk no more than four were reported though spring passage brought a peak of 21 on April 3rd. Other maxima included seven at Fenny Compton on February 7th, six at 72

Middleton Hall on March 10th, 12 at Lighthorne Quarry on 19th, 15 at Wormleighton Res on September 3rd-4th, 15 at Napton Res on October 27th and 14 at Dosthill on November 2nd. Up to five recorded from a further 23 sites. Worcs No reports of breeding rocoived, though possibly simply under-recorded. Away from the main sites, reported from 20 localities outride tho breeding season. The largest counts were 15 at Ashmoor Common on January 30th, 61 at Ripple on March 1st, 29 at Holt on 24th, 30 at Kinsham on 28th, 13 at Bredon's Hardwick on April 14th and seven at Ryall on September 8th. A leucistic bird was at Bittell on January 21 st. Staffs Five pairs bred on the Doxey CBC, with possibly one-two pairs at Pool Dam Marsh, Newcastle. On the northern moorlands drumming birds were reported from the -Goldsitch Moss-Hillend-Blackbank area, Knotbury, Readyleech Green and in the Royal Cottage-Middlehills area. Only four-five drummers were found on the Aqualate NNR, a decrease put down to dry conditions. Also present during the breeding season at Little Wyrley. W Mid Present during the breeding season in the Longmoor Valley area of Sutton Park, where there was a peak count of 20 on March 23rd. About 30 were flushed from a marsh in Brueton Park, Solihull on March 19th. Otherwise up to six were present in the Dunstall Park/Valley Park area and at Fens Pools outside the breeding season, with three or less at: Coundon Wedge, Dorridge Park, Harborne NR, llley Mill, Mushrom Green Marsh, Park Lime Pits, The Leys and Saltwells LNR.

Great Snipe Gallinago media Very rare passage vagrant, though more plentiful last century (1/10). 1995 Addendum W Mid The bird in Sandwell Valley on August 22nd, has now been accepted by the BBRC as having been seen early on the morning of the 23rd AHJH, JWr.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks Roding birds in the breeding season at: Atherstone GC, Bentley Park (four), Close Wood, Hartshill Hayes and Packington. More information on breeding distribution in the south of the county would be welcomed. It was widespread in the winter months, particularly during hard weather early in the year. The best counts were of five at Packington on January 1st and four at Brandon on both March 19th and December 1 st, with up to three reported from Alvecote, BAD Kineton, Bowshot Wood, Coton, Draycote, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton, Ladywalk, Napton Res, Radway, Snitterfield, Stockton NR, Ufton Wood and Upton. Worcs Reports of roding came from Callow Hill (four-five), Dowles Brook (three), Seckley Wood (two) and The Gullet (up to three). Small numbers were recorded at 23 localities during the winter months, with maxima of six at Castlemorton Common on January 28th and three at Trench Wood on March 10th. Staffs The few breeding season reports again came from the Katyn Memorial and 73

Seven Springs areas of Cannock Chase. Winter records were more widespread, with singles during January-April at Aqualate, Amington, Blithfield, Denstone and Westport, and four at Betley Mere on February 4th. The only records later in the year concerned singles at Westport on November 26th and Belvide on December 15th and 24th. W Mid Roding in the breeding season was recorded again on the Meriden side of Close Wood. During the winter months single birds were seen at Fens Pools on eight dates and in Sandwell Valley on five, with others on one or two dates at Bartley, Brades Hall, Footshole, Harborne NR, a Kingswinford garden, Meriden GP, Mushroom Green Marsh, Netherton Hill, Oldbury, Park Lime Pits (two on March 8th), Saltwells Wood area, Sheepwash UP, Stonebridge Meadows (Coventry), Sutton Park and Valley Park. The latest spring records came from both Sandwell Valley and Fens Pools on April 9th, with the first autumn ones at Bartley and Sandwell Valley on October 25th, the latter of a bird found stunned.

Black-tailed Godwit' Limosa limosa Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Average passage: March 17th (7) - October 21st (7) An outstanding year marked by a heavy autumn passage and an exceptional number of out-of-season records. To put these into perspective, there was only one previous record for both January (1993) and December (1991). Warks An excellent year. In spring there were two at Dosthill on March 31st and singles there on April 1st-2nd, 13th and 30th, with six on 25th. One at Dosthill on July 7th was the first on return passage, followed by two at Draycote on 27th and singles there on 30th and at Kingsbury on August 7th, with two at Draycote on 17th and one staying to 19th. A party of 13 then appeared there on September 21st-22nd, with numbers fluctuating daily between 2-12 until October 30th; but with maxima of 13 on September 28th and 14 on October 1st-2nd, 4th, 14th and 18th. Possibly only the same party of 14 were involved in all these records, the reason for the fluctuating counts being that birds were flying out to feed at other sites. Certainly, from October 31st-December 2nd only a single bird with a damaged wing remained here, apart from five on November 2nd-3rd, seven on 16th and two on 17th; the bulk of the remaining flock having moved to Napton Res where up to nine fed from October 31st- November 12th at least. Apart from four at Brandon on October 6th, Alvecote was the only other site to hold birds where after one on September 29th, there were five on December 1st, three on 15th and 22nd, and one on 31st; with December records possibly involving Draycote birds. Worcs Three at Upton Warren on April 23rd, were followed by one there on 28th, eight on May 28th and two from 29th-June 2nd. One at Bredon's Hardwick on May 10th-11th was the only other spring record. By contrast the latter site accounted for most of the autumn records beginning with 11 on July 4th, and then seven on August 3rd, one on 9th, two on September 10th-11th, 15 on 21st and two on 22nd. The latter two moved to Kinsham later the same day. The final record involved a late bird at Upton Warren from November 16th- 18th. 74

Staffs Two exceptional late winter records involved singles at Tittesworth on January 6th and Belvide on 19th. Spring passage began with two at Blithfield on March 17th, followed by one flying south over Westport on 24th, one at Barton GP on 30th and two at Drayton Bassett GP on 31st. Singles were noted at Barton GP, Belvide and Blithfield on several dates during April with six at Dosthill north GP on 23rd, while four were at Belvide on May 12th and a final single at Barton GP on 26th. An excellent return passage commenced with eight at Blithfield on June 23rd, with four there on 26th-27th and one on 30th. Up to six were then recorded at Blithfield on at least forty dates during the period July 7th-September 25th, with larger counts of ten on July 24th, up to 12 from August 9th-18th (with 14 on 12th) and 19 on 25th. Belvide had one or two birds on at least 27 dates during the period July 21st-October 14th, with six on July 21st and seven on August 26th. The only other autumn records involved singletons at Doxey on July 22nd, Barton GP on 23rd and Tittesworth on August 17th, while a late bird was at Blithfield on November 16th. IN Mid One flew over Fens Pools on March 24th, the first record for the site.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: March 27th (7) - October 8th (7) Warks A good year at Draycote, with singles on March 2nd and 24th, a party of eight on September 1st and further singles on 19th and 28th, and on October 1 Bth-19th and 23rd-24th. A summer-plumaged bird at Ladywalk from May 12th-18th, and an adult at Seeswood Pool from September 12th-16th were the only others. Worcs A summer-plumaged adult which appeared at Upton Warren on May 5th moved to Bittell later the same day, and then commuted between the two sites daily until 12th. Another summer-plumaged adult at Bittell on August 10th was the only autumn record. Staffs The only spring bird flew through Belvide on April 8th. On return passage, another single visited Belvide on August 9th and there were two at Blithfield on October 30th.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Average passage: April 11th (7) - September 26th (7) The bird at Defford on March 24th was the earliest on record, beating previous reports on March 26th in 1992 and 27th in 1983. Warks A fairly sparse passage. After an early party of eight at Dosthill on April 8th, the only other Tame valley birds were one at Ladywalk on May 13th and two at Dosthill next day. Draycote produced three on April 21st and 27th, two on May 1st, one on 2nd and six on 5th. Autumn could muster just six singletons, at Draycote on July 30th and on August 11th and 17th, Brandon on 23rd, Wormleighton Res on September 3rd, and finally Draycote again on 15th. Worcs A very early bird flew north over Defford on March 24th, with another north there on April 21st. Four also moved north over Kinsham on April 16th, 75

followed by another there on May 25th. Singles appeared at Upton Warren on April 18th, 21st, 28th and May 5th; and at Bredon's Hardwick on April 20th, 21st, 24th, and May 7th-20th, with three present on 13th. Finally, Bittell had two on April 24th and one on May 12th, while two flew south-west over Eckington Bridge on May 4th. On return passage, a good run of records occurred at Upton Warren in association with the Curlew roost; beginning with one on July 21st, followed by three on 26th and then small numbers each evening until August 26th, with a peak of eight on August 6th. Singles over Worcester on August 12th, Little Comberton on 14th and Bredon's Hardwick on September 8th complete the picture. Staffs A good series of spring records came from Belvide, with four on April 21 st and then up to three daily until May 1st, with final singles on 12th and 14th. At Blithfield, there were two on April 22nd, five on 24th and one on 28th, while two were at Tittesworth on May 2nd and 4th. A single bird at Belvide on the odd date of June 22nd was probably on very early return passage. One flew south-west over Lichfield on August 7th, with another at Blithfield on the same day, followed by two there on 21st and one on September 15th. Belvide produced nine on both August 9th and 25th, with singles there on 30th and at Tittesworth on September 10th. W Mid In April, one flew north over Bartley on 21st and another visited Berkswell GP on 22nd.

Curlew Numenius arquata Fairly 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 28 4 22 12 15 61 100 97 90 70 39 4 Belvide 2 - 15 10 2 3 10 1 1 - 1 - Blilhfield 1 1 1 - 1 - - 2 8 - 1 - Titlesworlh - 4 43 20 12 8 4 2 10 12 2 - Warks Probable breeding pairs were located at: Alcester, Chapel Ascote, Clifton- upon-Dunsmore, Fillongley, Knightcote, Maxstoke (possibly two), Lighthorne, Oxhill, Polesworth (three), Priors Hardwick (two), Tysoe, Whatcote and Whit- acre Heath (unsuccessful). Outside the breeding season records were frequent in the Tame valley, particularly at Ladywalk where small numbers seen in every month apart from November-December, with maxima of 23 on March 16th and 19 in autumn. Away from here, Draycote had records in ten months with a peak of seven on August 21st, while reports came from a further 12 sites including Seeswood Pool which held a maximum of 12 on March 16th. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Birlingham where a pair produced three young. Also noted in the breeding season at: Abberton, Aston Mill, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hardwick, Broughton Hackett, Clows Top, Croome, Defford (four displaying in April), Eckington, Hanley William, Little Beckford, Lower Moor, Overbury, Strensham, Throckmorton, Timberhonger and the Trench Wood area (up to seven in April). Casual sightings came from a further ten localities, some possibly suggesting further local breeding. The only 76

substantial flocks away from Upton Warren were 20 at Churchill on February 9th and 30 at Tardebigge on August 22nd. Staffs Breeding pairs were reported from: Anslow (two), Aqualate (four, a decrease), Gallon Moor, Goldsitch Moss (three), Orchard Common (three) and Stanton Dale. The Longsdon Mill Pool roost built up from four on February 26th to 13 on March 9th, 62 on 14th and a peak of 65 on 17th. Other counts away from tabulated sites included up to 23 at Barton during January-February, 20 in the Warslow area on August 10th, and 25 at Iversley on December 20th. The latter flock is part of the traditional winter roost at Whittington SF. Smaller numbers (up to five) were reported from a further 22 sites distributed throughout the county. W Mid A good year in Sandwell Valley began with one flying north-east on January 3rd, followed by two on March 17th and singles on 18th, 21st, April 10th, 13th, 18th, July 28th and on August 2nd and 21st; again all relating to birds in flight. One stayed in Longmoor Valley, Sutton Park for several days in mid-March; while other spring reports involved three at Bartley on March 21st and five on 23rd, six moving north over Fens Pools on 24th, and singles at Park Lime Pits on 27th and April 21st. One landed on a cricket pitch at Netherton Hill on June 27th, and another flew over Sheepwash UP on August 8th.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 12th (6) - October 2nd (7) Warks Singles were seen at Kingsbury on April 11th-12th, Brandon on June 24th- 28th, Alvecote on August 15th and at Draycote from September 2nd-4th, and on October 3rd and 27th. Worcs There were two at Bredon's Hardwick on August 25th and one at Grimley from September 8th-15th. Upton Warren held singles on September 1st and from 8th-27th, with three on 15th and from 21st-23rd, and two on 26th. All records related to juveniles. Staffs In spring there were singles at a new GP west of Baden Hall on April 5th, at Belvide on 7th and Blithfield on 8th, with another at Belvide on May 6th. Return passage commenced with three at Blithfield from August 23rd-25th, with one staying to 26th. Single juveniles were at Belvide on September 1st, Blithfield from 7th-13th and 25th, with two at Westport on September 9th and one at Alrewas GP on October 1st. W Mid An adult in winter plumage was at Fens Pools on September 5th-6th, while three stayed in Sandwell Valley for a short time on 24th before flying off north. These were the first county records since 1989.

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 Brandon - 4 8 6 9 6 Draycote - 1 3 1 2 2 21 2 1 1 1 - Kingsbury area 1 1 20 12 12 12 - - - - 2 Ladywalk - 6 6 4 6 6 77

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Bittell 1 - 1 1 - 1 1 1 1 - - - Bredon's Hardwick - 1 26 12 6 28 - - 1 - - - Kinsham - - 4 6 2 - 3 Larlord 1 - 3 2 Strensham - - - 4 3 14 Upton Warren - - 10 10 10 6 5 2 1 1 - 1 Alrewas GP 2 2 5 3 - 1 ------Barton GP 1 - 2 17 15 15 8 - - - - 1 Belvide - 4 14 9 6 8 4 2 13 - 2 - Blithfield - - 6 7 8 5 4 4 1 - - - Croxall GP 1 2 6 13 6 14 Ooxey - - 5 4 2 1 1 - - - - - Tittesworth - 1 1 1 1 2 1 3 - 1 3 - Warks Breeding pairs confirmed at Brandon (two), Dosthill (at least two), Kingsbury and Ladywalk (two), and also suspected at Alvecote (where maxima of six on April 17th and five on November 27th), and possibly Coton. Single pairs were present at Charlecote and Jubilee Pools in spring. Small numbers on passage at several other Tame valley waters south to Shustoke, with several winter records. The count of 21 at Draycote on July 15th was unusually large for that water. Away from the main areas the only other to be reported was a single at Earlswood Lakes on July 14th. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Upton Warren (three chicks fledged), and suspected at Eckington and Overbury. There were unusual mid-winter records of singles at Bittell and Larford on January 27th, and at Upton Warren on December 26th. Away from tabulated sites, there were singles at Grimley on March 17th, Westwood on 23rd and Lower Moor on 24th, April 6th and 14th, May 4th and June 20th. A pair were at Wilden from April 7th-20th, with another pair at Aston Mill Pit on May 18th. An autumn bird appeared at Grimley on September 4th. Staffs Breeding pairs were reported from Aqualate (one, with another rearing young just over the Shropshire border), Belvide (two-three), Branston-Burton area (two) and Doxey CBC area (two). Small numbers also reported from Baswich, Chasewater, Drayton Bassett, Elford GP, Handsacre Flashes, Hill Ridware, Kings Bromley, Rickerscote and Westport. W Mid A pair bred in the Berkswell GP area where young were seen on June 241h, while a pair attempted to breed in Sandwell Valley but the eggs were thought to have been predated by crows. Away from here spring migrants were noted at: Dunstall Park, three on March 24th and singles on six dates during April 2nd-20th; Fens Pools, singles on March 23rd and April 7th; Sheepwash UP, up to two present from March 17th-April 8th (probably the Sandwell Valley pair), with one on May 27th; and Sutton Park, one on March 23rd. On return passage, a single bird was in Sandwell Valley on September 21st and 23rd.

Greenshank Tringa nebularia Frequent passage migrant. Rare in winter. Monthly maxima at main sites: AMJJASON • .Brandon 1 — - 7 6 1 — Draycote -1-5 11 83- Dosthill/Kingsbury 1 11 13 2- Ladywalk - 2 - - - 3 1 78

A M J J A S 0 N Bishampton Vale Pool - - - 1 1 1 - - Bittell 1 1 - 1 1 - Bredon's Hardwick - 1 1 2 1 - Upton Warren 1 1 1 2 4 7 2 1 Alrewas GP - - - - - 1 - Barton GP - - 1 - 2 2 2 - Belvide 2 5 - 2 9 11 - - BlithDeld - 1 2 1 34 24 3 1 Croxall GP ------4 - Doxey 1 1 - - - 1 - - Ellord GP - - - - 17 1 - - Rudyard - - - - 1 - - - Tlttesworth - - - - 2 1 - - Warks Records from other sites included spring singles at Salford Priors GP on May 12th and Blythe Mill on 17th, with two at Shustoke on 18th; and in autumn, singles at Wormleighton Res from August 30th-September 8th and on 14th- 16th, 20th-22nd and 26th; two at Baginton Lagoons on September 4th and three on 7th; up to seven at Coton from 8th-16th; and singles at Compton Wynyates on 12th and Charlecote on 15th. Worcs Other records included singles at Strensham on August 11th and 15th, Lower Moor on 18th and September 4th, Wilden on August 25th and Ryall GP on September 7th-8th. A long-staying individual remained at Upton Warren until November 6th. Staffs A very good autumn passage was experienced at Blithfield, but by contrast a poor year at Doxey. Away from the main sites, there were singles at Dosthill north on June 1st and on the R.Dove at Crossplains on July 20th and August 26th, with two there from September 3rd-7th, and another watched sleeping beside a small pool on Morridge on August 29th. W Mid A very early spring bird flew over Dunstall Park Lake on March 22nd, while another was seen there on April 8th. On return passage a good series of records came from Berkswell GP, with singles noted on August 25th, 28th, September 7th and 15th, and one at nearby Meriden GP on September 5th- 6th. Singles were also reported from Sheepwash UP on August 25th and October 19th, and at Fens Pools on October 16th.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Frequent passage migrant and uncommon winter visitor. Monthly maxima at main sites: J FMAM J JA Brandon - 1 1 7 1 5 14 20 10 Kingsbury area 1 3 2 3 - - 11 9 6 Grimley 1 12-286 Ryall GP --21---3 Strensham ______34 Upton Warren 2 3 2 5 3 4 13 17 Alrewas GP ______27 Barton GP - _ _ 1 _ _ - 5 Belvide 2 1 4 Blithfield - - - 1 - 1 5 8 Croxall GP Elford GP --1----6 Kings Bromley ------4 Beikswell GP ---2-122 79

Warks Other maxima included five at Salford Priors GP on August 3rd and four at both Ladywalk on July 20th and Baginton Lagoons during early September, with up to three at BAD Kineton, Blythe Hall, Chesterton, Draycote, Jubilee Pools, Lighthome Quarry, Napton Res, Packington Park, Shustoke, Stone- leigh, Ufton Fields, Whitacre Heath and Wormleighton Res. There were a good number of winter records and birds were only absent in the county during the period May 5th-31st. Worcs Other singles at Wilden from February-April, Oakley on April 7th, Stoke Bliss on July 27th and August 7th, Bittell on August 6th and 29th, Bredon's Hard- wick on August 15th and September 6th, and Ashmoor Common on Decem- ber 28th. Staffs Elsewhere there were wintering birds at Drayton Bassett GP, three on January 4th, two on February 4th and one on December 28th; and on the Meece Brook at Standon, where one remained from mid-February until March 11th. Singles were seen in April at Doxey and Kettlebrook Lake, in May at Tittesworth, and from July-October at Handsacre Flashes, Haughton, Little Wyrley, Rudyard and Tittesworth. W Mid In spring there were singles at Dunstall Park Lake on March 28th and from April 4th-6th, Stubber's Green from April 2nd-10th and Sheepwash UP on 14th. Return passage was noted at: Bradnock's Marsh, two on August 25th; Dunstall Park Lake, singles from August 1st-16th, with two on 10th-12th; Goscote Valley, singles on September 4th and December 10th; Sandwell Valley, singles on July 8th, 13th, 20th and August 8th, two on 10th and one on 11th-12th; and Stubber's Green, one on August 9th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has overwintered. Average passage: May 2nd (7) - September 28th (7) Warks In spring there were singles at Dosthill on May 17th and Shustoke on 18th, the latter being the first at that site. Three also appeared at Ladywalk on May 18th with one remaining to 20th, while a late bird was at Dosthill on June 1st. On return passage there were singles at Draycote on August 13th and Bran- don on 25th, followed by further singles at Draycote on September 7th and 22nd, with a long-staying bird there from 28th-October 15th. Worcs Singles were at Upton Warren on May 1st, 3rd, 6th and 16th-17th, possibly involving just two individuals. The only autumn bird visited Ryall GP on September 8th. Staffs Single spring birds were seen at Tittesworth on May 5th-6th and Blithfield on 25th. Autumn passage consisted of singles at Blithfield from August 6th-8th and Barton GP on 17th, with two at Belvide from 28th-September 2nd. At Blithfield probably a single long-stayer was present from September 1st onwards, being joined by a second on 24th, with both birds remaining until October 2nd.

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

Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A b U N Dosthill/Kingsbury 2 3 - 2 1 3 - - Draycote 2 17 8 6 27 15 20 1 - Bittell 9 5 - 2 4 Bredon's Hardwick 6 4 1 4 8 3 1 1 Lower Moor 1 1 - 3 2 1 - - Upton Warren 4 8 2 11 8 4 - - Aqualate 1 3 - 4 - - - - Barton GP 3 - 2 3 3 - - Belvide 12 4 - 16 9 7 - - Blithlield 3 9 4 25 20 9 - - Bianstun 1 - 3 5 - Croxall GP 2 3 2 10 8 1 - - Kings Bromley - 2 - 6 4 - - - Tittesworth 5 12 10 36 10 1 - - Beikswell GP 1 1 _ - 3 1 _ _ Dunstall Park Lake 2 2 - 1 2 1 - - Sandwell Valley 6 4 4 3 4 3 1 2 Sheepwash UP 3 2 - 2 5 2 - -

Warks Spring passage began unusually early with March records at three sites, with the first at Draycote on 13th. It was a poor year in the Tame valley, though some good counts came from Draycote with a peak of 27 on July 22nd. Away from tabulated sites there was maxima of six at Shustoke and four at both Coton and Whitacre Pool. Nine at Abbots Salford on August 26th was a good count, while up to three were reported from Alvecote, BAD Kineton, Baginton Lagoons, Bermuda, Brandon, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Compton Wyn- yates, Earlswood, Jubilee Pools, Ladywalk, Napton Res, Packington, Salford Priors, Seeswood Pool, The Somers and Wormleighton Res. Worcs The largest counts away from tabulated sites were of four, at Kempsey Lower Ham on May 2nd, at Wilden on August 11th and at Ryall on 24th.Smaller numbers noted at: Bishampton Vale Pool, Grimley, Kinsham, Larford, Pirton, Strensham and Westwood. One at Bredon's Hardwick remained until Novem- ber 15th. Staffs No breeding information forwarded. Apart from a bird at Croxall GP in January, all birds were recorded between April 9th and September 23rd, both dates coming from Belvide. Away from tabulated sites up to three were noted in spring and autumn at Betley Mere, Doxey, Elford GP, Hill Ridware and Westport. W Mid Spring passage birds were also noted at: Bartley, one on May 3rd and 17th; Fens Pools, one on April 7th, three on 10th and two from 16th-May 19th; Meriden GP. one on May 5th; Netherton Res, three on April 19th, two on 21st and one on May 2nd-3rd; and Wyken Slough, one on May 1st. On return passage there were two at Footshole on June 30th, and singles at Stubber's Green on August 8th and September 6th, Netherton Res on August 11th and 27th, and Bartley on 25th.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Average passage: April 25th (7) - September 20th (7) Warks The year began well with an exceptional winter record, at Draycote on 81

January 24th. This was succeeded by a very poor spring passage consisting of just four birds at the regular sites; at Dosthill on May 14th and both there (two) and Draycote on 20th. In addition there was a most bazaar record of a bird seen and heard flying south over llmington Downs on April 21st MDBs. All autumn records came from Draycote, with one staying from July 24th- August 2nd which was joined by two more on July 27th; followed by singles on August 11th, 20th and 24th-25th, with three more on September 9th. Worcs Three were at Upton Warren on May 2nd, with two remaining to 3rd and one to 4th; followed by one at Bredon's Hardwick on 16th-17th. Staffs Single birds in spring at Chasewater on May 18th and Belvide on 22nd. On return passage there was a bird at Belvide on July 28th, followed by one at Blithfield from August 3rd-9th with two on 8th, and a single on 24th.

Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor Very rare vagrant (1/10). The third Regional record, with previous birds at Upton Warren in 1985 and Draycote in 1988, both in September. More numerous during the 1970's and 1980's, this attractive nearctic wader has experienced lean times more recently and the present bird was one of only two records in the country during the year. Warks A juvenile moulting to first-winter plumage was at Draycote on October 1 st SR et al. It had originally been discovered at nearby Daventry Res, Northants the day before.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Rare passage migrant (3/10) Although there have now been 25 records in the Region, this was the first since 1989 when three individuals turned up during June-July. It was also by far the earliest spring record. Staffs A female was at Belvide on May 4th-5th FCG, WJL, GJM.

Red-necked Phalarope (Phil Jones)

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Scarce autumn and early winter visitor, usually storm-driven. Very rare at other times of year. The two Worcs records may have related to just one bird, though the coincidence of dates with the Belvide individual suggest the arrival of three separate birds. 82

Worcs Singles at Upton Warren on November 6th PA and Bishampton Vale Pool from 7th-15th WFP, WRHPetal. Staffs Singles at Belvide on November 7th PDn, FCG and Westport on December 4th SG. 1995 Corrigendum Staffs The bird at Westport on December 4th was actually a 1996 record (see above).

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Scarce passage migrant. Rare in winter. Worcs In September, a juvenile was at Bredon's Hardwick on 10th SJH, and a dark- phase adult was discovered in the gull roost at Westwood on 16th TMH. Staffs An immature visited Blithfield briefly on September 20th AH, PDH.

Mediterranean Gull Larus meianocephaius Uncommon but increasing passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Fewer records this year, partly due to many Draycote records having to be omitted due to lack of descriptions. In the Draycote roost a first-winter was found on January 27th and an adult and first-winter on February 20th JFCJ. An adult moulting into summer plumage was at Alvecote on February 4th ARD, while Dosthill produced a first-year on April 20th-21st PDH, MJi, GJM and a first-summer on June 2nd PDH. The first autumn record was of a first- winter at Wormleighton Res on September 26th JJB, followed by two more al Draycote on 28th REH, DJS. Another first-winter was at Draycote on October 27th GIG, PDH. At the end of the year an adult and one or two first-winters were roosting at Coton on December 29th JAA, with the adult seen again on 30th BLK. Worcs In the Westwood roost there were single winter-plumaged adults on January 11th-12th and from 22nd-26th SMW et al. A partial summer-plumaged adult appeared there on February 14th TMH, SMW, with different adults on 17th and 19th GHP, SMWet al., a second-winter on 23rd and a first-winter bearing a red colour-ring on 28th SMW. Elsewhere, an adult in summer plumage was at Throckmorton Tip on February 19th GHP, WFP et al., with a second-winter there on March 10th SMW and a second-summer on 17th GHP, WFP et al. Single summer-plumaged adults were at Bredon's Hardwick on March 9th RWP, 18th SJH and 23rd GHP, with a second-summer there on 31 st MWCW, SMW et al. and two adults from April 5th-7th RWP, SMW et al. A summer- plumaged adult was a good find on Bredon Hill on March 28th WFP Birds began to return from late summer, beginning with a first-summer at Upton Warren on July 13th-14th and a juvenile there from August 23rd-25th GG et al., followed by a different juvenile on September 6th and a first-winter from October 7th-12th TMH et al. The latter bird roosted at Westwood on October 9th, where an adult on November 19th-20th SMW was the only other record from the site. Finally, a first-winter at Ryall on August 28th LAB and a second- winter at Bittell on November 4th REH rounded off another good year. Staffs The only records referred to a first-winter at Westport on January 21st, an adult there on March 4th and a first-winter on 19th WJL, and an adult at Chasewater on 24th MY. 83

W Mid A second-winter bird at Netherton Res on February 6th CJT, was followed by an adult at Bartley on 12th SPR and a first-winter there the following day SC, and at Fens Pools on 14th SE. An adult was at Wyken Slough on December 10th JJB.

Laughing Gull Larus atricilla Very rare vagrant (0/10). The only previous Regional record came from Edgbaston Res, where a first- winter roosted during January 1985. 1996 was a record year in the British Isles for this once very rare nearctic gull, with at least seven birds in Britain and four more in Ireland. Worcs A second-winter roosted at Upton Warren from August 26th-September 4th JTB, RAH, REH et al. Last seen on the morning of 4th, it's regular routine involved spending the day with Black-headed Gulls feeding on fields just to the north of the reserve, before roosting on the Flashes. The first county record.

Little Gull Larus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Generally a good spring passage but very poor autumn in the Region. A small January influx was notable. Warks An adult at Lea Marston on January 1st was followed by an unusual party of six adults at Shustoke on 5th, with a further adult at Draycote on February 15th. A good spring passage began with five at Draycote on March 23rd, followed by birds on April 7th, 13th (two), 17th, 19th, 20th (three), 21st, 27th and on May 4th and 7th, which consisted of a mix of adults and both first and second-summer birds. At Shustoke, a party of seven (six adults and a second-summer) on April 9th was succeeded by an adult and first-summer on 10th, two adults on 11th and another first-summer on 14th. Dosthill produced two adults on both March 24th and April 20th, a first-winter on 21st and two first-summers on May 5th-6th. Single adults were at Earlswood Lakes on April 20th and May 1st. Return passage was very meagre with not more than five birds, beginning with two juveniles at Draycote on August 18th, followed by singles from 22nd-26th and on September 19th. Another juvenile was at Shustoke from September 20th-25th. Worcs An adult was at Larford on January 14th. Spring passage began with single first-winters at Bredon's Hardwick on March 24th and April 5th, followed there by a second-summer on 10th, an adult on 11th, a first-winter on 12th, another adult on 15th and single first-summers on 16th-17th and on May 30th. There was also a second-summer at Bittell on April 13th, two adults at Westwood on 16th and an adult at Larford on 17th. The only records in the latter half of the year involved a juvenile at Westwood on August 11th, a second-winter there from October 24th-27th, a first-winter at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 15th and two adults over Upton Warren on December 20th. Staffs A small influx in January brought single adults to Chasewater and Westport on 6th, with a first-winter at the latter site and an adult and first-winter at Belvide on 9th. Spring passage commenced with an early second-winter at 84

Belvide on March 18th, followed on April 8th by four (two adults and two first- winters) there and two (a first and second-winter) at blithtield. Belvide then produced three (an adult and single first and second-summers) on 9th, a first- winter on 10th, an adult on 12th and a first-summer on 23rd. A first-summer was at Himley Great Pool on April 13th, with single adults at Aqualate on 28th and Blithfield on 29th, while a first-summer visited the latter site on May 1 st, and an adult and second-summer were at Belvide on 12th. A first-summer at Chasewater on June 19th preceded a poor return passage. An adult and first-summer were at Belvide on July 29th, followed by singles at Blithfield on August 3rd, Copmere (a first-winter) on September 21st, Tittesworth (immature) on 29th and Belvide on November 15th. W Mid An adult flew east over Fens Pools on March 25th.

Sabine's Gull Larus sabini Rare autumn vagrant (4/10). The eleventh Regional record, of which five were from Blithfield. Staffs A confiding juvenile was at Blithfield on October 6th-7th sev. obs.

Bonaparte's Gull Larus Philadelphia Very rare vagrant (4/10).

This dainty transatlantic visitor appears to be becoming increasingly regular in the Region! This was the fifth Regional record, all of which have occurred since 1990.

Staffs A first-winter was at Blithfield from April 27th-30th WJL et al.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Frequent breeding bird in Staffs and north Warks. 65

Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D Bittell 101 150 350 1000 3 3 92 300 700 600 238 238 Bredon's Hardwick - - 5(1(1 4(10 1 1.1 950 - - 90 - - Throckmorton 600 2000 1600 - 1 - 250 25 - 40 500 - Upton Warren 100 120 150 15 6 34 3500 2500 1000 1400 1200 40 Westwood 5000 4000 3000 180 3 - 90 500 700 3000 3800 5000 Aqualate 400 160 330 36 48 16 50 200 38 140 20 200 Belvide 3600 4000 5000 - - - - - 3200 - 1200 Chasewater 7000 4700 3000 162 2 - 620 2000 3000 6000 9000 9500

Warks The Dosthill gullery was again in the region of 50 pairs. Very poorly reported this year, with no estimates of the large Draycote and Coton roosts forthcoming. In the Dosthill area 3000 were estimated on February 16th, 4000 on October 26th and 2300 on December 21st. Other counts were generally below 400, with maxima of 550 at Jubilee Pools on January 6th, 800 on ploughed fields at Fenny Compton on March 8th and 950 at Shustoke on 10th. A partial albino was at Draycote on February 23rd-24th. Worcs Away from the principle sites, the largest numbers reported were 450 at Tibberton on January 14th, 350 at Wilden on August 11th, 320 moving south over Strensham on 18th, 150 over Shadybank Common on Novem- ber 3rd, 800 at Wildmoor Tip on December 4th and 700 at Hartlebury Tip on 27th. Staffs No breeding information received. Away from the tabulated sites maxima included 2000 at Westport on January 21st and December 30th, together with 400 at Rickerscote and 110 in Kettlebrook Park in January, 300 at Cotes Heath in March and 200 at Betley Mere in November. A leucistic bird was at Belvide on October 3rd and 14th. W Mid Maxima included 500 at Dunstall Park in February and August, peaks of 800 and 840 at Netherton Res in the late winter and autumn periods respectively, and 480 in Sandwell Valley in November. Other counts included 350 at Edgbaston Res in March and 150 at Berkswell GP on August 17th. One alighted briefly on the pitch during a football match at Birmingham City's ground in late November!

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Very rare vagrant (4/10). The seventh acceptable Regional record, with the last coming from Draycote in April 1991. The prophesied increase in records at the time of the last sighting failed to materialise but the species does suffer from a high rejection rate, making it imperative for observers to take full field notes of any suspected Ring-bill. W Mid An adult at Fens Pools on January 3rd SE, AG, TPr was present for just an hour in late morning. The second county record, the first being of an adult found at Queslett Tip in March 1989.

Common Gull Larus canus Common winter visitor and passage migrant, especially in the east and south of Warks. 86

Monthly maxima at selected sites: .1 F M A M J J A S O N 0 Bittell 1 1 6 28 - - - 1 2 1 1 1 Bredon's Hardwick - - 500 750 7 - 10 1 8 1 15 4 Throckmorton 10 24 30 - - - 1 - - - 1 2 Upton Warren 4 3 3 1 1 - 6 5 1 1 2 2 Westwood 13 20 18 42 - - 1 2 4 6 25 20 Chasewater 304 300 14 81 1 1 1 8 40 Weslport 12 10 6 1 8 1 Warks No estimates of the huge Draycote roost received. Birds were present in the county up to May 17th and from July 16th, with a single at Watergall on June 7th. The largest flocks were in the south-east of the county, including maxima of 220 at Fenny Compton on March 8th, 200 at Farnborough on 14th and 300 at Compton Wynyates on 18th. Later in the year there were peaks of 250 at Fenny Compton on November 25th and 300 over Wormleighton Res on 26th. Worcs Numerous records of up to a dozen birds at various places. Larger counts included maxima of 15 at Wildmoor Tip on February 8th, 20 at Kinsham on March 20th, 200 spiralling north-east over Castlemorton Common on 23rd, 395 on Bredon Hill on 28th, 30 at Eckington on 29th, 100 at Bushley on 31st, 25 flying north over Whittington on April 4th and 14 flying north over Strensham on 6th. Staffs The only other count to exceed double figures was 15 at Belvide on April 1st, although there was a lack of information from the moderate-sized Blithfield roost. W Mid A scarce bird in the county away from the Coventry area, where the highest counts received were of 45 at Coundon Court School on December 3rd and 40 at Wyken Slough on 10th. The latter was the only record received from that locality this year, a site that regularly attracts three figure flocks. Away from this area up to four were noted during the winter months at Dunstall Park/Valley Park, Fens Pools, the Netherton area, Sandwell Valley, Sheep- wash UP and Stubber's Green. One or two were noted on several July dates from three of these sites.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii Very common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon breeder in Worcs and West Mids since 1986. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0 Bittell 9 8 8 10 37 14 1 29 20 81 4 25 Bredon's Hardwick - - - 100 150 60 247 2 - - - Throckmorton 1600 2000 700 250 70 180 200 300 800 2000 - Uplon Warren 600 5 - 2 6 3 52 6 ? 5 30 12 Weslwood 2500 1200 440 20 4 11 120 900 140 1200 2500 2800 Aqualate 45 12 40 150 Belvide 65 200 ------900 - 500 Chasewater 800 850 1700 440 260 1 200 1250 2100 3500 1500 1500 Warks No counts from the large Coton and Draycote roosts. Numerous though grossly under-recorded, the best counts were of 95 at Newbold-on-Stour on September 15th, 120 at Alvecote on 18th, 550 on ploughed fields at Fenny Compton on 30th (with 450 here on November 25th), 138 at BAD Kineton 87

on October 14th, 365 at Dosthill on 26th and 250 at Hodnell on November 25th. Worcs An estimated 20 pairs again bred on rooftops in Worcester GHG, BW. Other counts to be reported around the county included 330 over Castlemorton Common on January 7th, 340 at Tlbberton on 14th, 410 moving south over Strensham on August 18th, 600 at Hartlebury Tip on December 27th and 400 at Wildmoor Tip on the same day. Staffs The only other significant counts involved 2000 at both Blithfield in February and Copmere in December. W Mid Pairs bred in Birmingham city centre (including one which reared three young on the roof of Dillon's Bookshop in New Street) and Hockley. Just how many nesting pairs were present in this area is difficult to determine, though it certainly appeared to be in excess of ten. One or two pairs were also regular in Sandwell Valley during the breeding season, with up to five adults at Sheepwash UP in the same period. A mating pair was noted at the latter site, with three adults and a juvenile appearing in early June. It was regular at Berkswell GP during the summer months with up to 38 in June-July, peaking at 47 in August. Other sites produced large counts on morning and evening Mightlines particularly in autumn and early winter, eg. more than 500 regularly moving over Fens Pools and a peak of 800 passing over Netherton in an hour on December 24th. At Park Lime Pits numbers peaked in October, with the largest counts of 200 on 14th and 300 on 24th. Feeding flocks peaked mainly in January and December, with maxima of 34 at Bowmans Harbour, 30 at Dunstall Park, 50 at Fens Pools, 106 at Netherton Res (a record count there), 31 in Sandwell Valley and 100 at Sheepwash UP.

'Intermediate'Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. intermedius Uncommon (?) passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Small numbers were regular at Draycote. Three adults were feeding on a ploughed field at Fenny Compton on September 30th, with one there on October 17th. Worcs Single adults were at Throckmorton Tip on May 18th and October 5th, and at Bittell on September 20th.

'Scandinavian' Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. fuscus Scarce (?) passage migrant and winter visitor. Worcs An adult was at Westwood on February 5th.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus cachinnans Uncommon though increasing late summer, autumn and winter visitor. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A S O N D Draycote 1 4 - - - - 2 2 - 2 4 2 Bredon's Hardwick 1 1 1 2 2 1 Throckmorton 3 2 1 1 2 2 - 1 4 1 Westwood 3 1 1 3 4 5 88

Warks Records at Draycote were distributed from January 4th-February 24th, July 25th-August 24th and from October 24th-December 31st sev. obs. All were of adults, apart from a fourth-summer on July 25th. The only documented record away from here was of an adult at Shustoke on January 9th BLK. Worcs Other records included an adult at Wildmoor Tip on January 10th REH and a second-winter there on October 22nd TMH. Kinsham had an adult and third- winter on September 8th SJH and an adult on 22nd SMW, whilst a fourth- winter present at Throckmorton during December also visited Lower Moor on December 25th GHP. Staffs Records came from: Blithfield, single adults on February 18th WJL, on four dates during November 3rd-17th WJL, MY, and on December 22nd and 28th WJL; Chasewater, an adult on October 20th and November 16th MY; Drayton Bassett, a second-summer on May 12th JAA; and Westport, a fourth-winter on January 14th, an adult on March 4th and a second-winter on 24th WJL. W Mid Adults were noted at: Bartley, two on January 4th AN (with several other birds claimed but no details supplied); Edgbaston Res, one fairly frequently during both winter periods TCH et ai.\ Netherton Res, one on December 31st CJT; Sandwell Valley, one on December 26th and 28th SVB; Sheepwash UP, singles on July 21st and November 9th AGW, DW; and Sutton Park, one on Longmoor Pool on October 19th BRP.

Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer, though nested in Worcs in 1969 and 1993. Monthly maxima at selected sites: J F M A M J J A S 0 N D Throckmorton 400 100 80 15 2 11 e 4 - 6 30 90 Westwood 400 90 38 2 6 - - 1 1 5 19 75

Chasewater 1200 350 96 56 - - - - 6 200 1500 1700 Warks No counts from the large Draycote roost. Elsewhere, maxima included 150 at Dosthill on January 20th, 307 roosting at Coton on December 21st and 330 in a pre-roost gathering at Shustoke on 26th. In the south of the county the largest counts were of 50 at Brailes on January 7th and 100 flying south over Burton Dassett Hills on December 8th. A few were noted in the Tame valley and at Draycote during the breeding season, but more interestingly a pair summered at Earlswood Lakes and were seen displaying, one of which carried an orange ring. Worcs Small numbers recorded in winter at several sites. The continuing tendency towards good numbers in spring at Bredon's Hardwick was interesting, with 25 on April 10th and 11 on May 6th. An exceptional 600 flew over Upton Warren on January 14th JTB, while on December 27th there were counts of 40 at Hartlebury Tip and 73 at Wildmoor Tip. Staffs Over 800 on fields at Great Wyrley during the early winter were presumably birds from the Chasewater roost which generally feed on Cannock Tip. Elsewhere in the county the only records involved just two in the Aqualate roost on January 3rd and a tiny peak of eight at Belvide on 13th. Numbers 89

appear to be declining in the county, though due to gross under-recording the evidence for this is slim. W Mid Larger numbers than usual were reported on flightlines over Fens Pools in January and December, with up to 400 counted. Otherwise few records, with maxima at Sheepwash UP of 23 in January and 50 in December, and 16 flying over Valley Park on February 11th the highest counts. Small numbers of up to six were also reported from Berkswell GP, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Woodgate Valley.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks Most records came as usual from Draycote. After a third-winter on January 1st JFCJ, at least one adult was roosting there on a regular basis from January 6th-March 7th JFCJ et al., being joined by third-winters on January 6th REH, JFCJ, DJS, 18th JFCJ and from 31st-February 9th JJB, JFCJ; by a second adult on February 20th-21st JFCJ, and by a second-winter from February 28th-March 3rd GIG, PDH, JFCJ. The last spring record was of an adult there on March 23rd JFCJ. The autumn began well with an exceptionally early first-winter in the roost from November 7th-9th JFCJ, followed by another (or the same) on 25th JFCJ. and an adult from December 7th-31st GIG, REH, JFCJ et al. This bird was again joined by a first-winter on 29th-30th GIG, JFCJ. The only record from elsewhere in the county involved an adult at Dosthill on January 26th PDH. Worcs An adult was at Throckmorton Tip on February 1st-2nd GHP, WFP et al., with a first-winter there on November 17th WFP Staffs An adult was at Blithfield on January 14th ESC, with probably the same third- winter there on 14th ESC, WJL, 17th and 24th ESC, and February 11th ESC, PDH, ICW, MY. Possibly the same third-winter visited Westport on January 21st WJL. Chasewater produced an adult on January 14th GIG, PDH, a first- winter from March 1st-10th GIG, PDH and a third-winter on March 9th SAR. At the end of the year, there was a first-winter at Blithfield on December 27th ESC, WJL and an adult on 28th WJL, with a first-winter at Chasewater also on 28th ADB. WMid An adult was at Fens Pools on January 22nd SE. In December, a second- winter was seen in the Pensnett area on December 21st and 26th CJT, with a first-winter at Withymoor Pool on 27th SC. Also in the same area, a bird thought to be either a first or second-winter was seen at Shut End on December 21st, 23rd and 25th-26th, at Fens Pools on 22nd and at Barrow Hill quarry pool on 25th SE. It seems possible that only one bird was involved in all these records.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Records continue to decline, with this year's exceptionally meagre total being the lowest since 1967. Warks An adult in the Draycote roost on January 12th JFCJ. Staffs A first-winter at Cannock Tip on January 13th MY. 90

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

J F M A M J J A S O N D Throckmorton 30 B 1 1 4 3 Westwood 30 6 1 3 12 Chasewater 570 70 15 9 B - - - 2 10 50 300

Warks The only counts from the Draycote roost were of 220 on January 13th, down to 160 on 31st- Exceptionally high numbers were reported from Shustoke in December, with record counts of 78 on 26th and 75 on 20th. At Dosthill the best count was only 15 on January 20th. Still a scarce bird over much of the southern half of the county, with five at Chesterton on November 23rd the largest party to be reported. Worcs Away from the main sites there were small numbers at Bittell, Bredon's Hard- wick (including one from May 1st-7th), Upton Warren, Warndon and Wildmoor Tip. Staffs No counts from the Blithfield roost this year, although a first-year bird which remained there from early spring until at least early September was thought to be the first case of over-summering in the county. A peak of only seven at Belvide on February 16th was the largest count away from the Chasewater roost. W Mid Very few reported, with just one at Sheepwash UP on January 1 st and two on 28th, and singles flying over Valley Park on January 30th, February 21st and December 15th, and east through Sandwell Valley on October 30th.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks A poor year, with three adults at Draycote on March 3rd, two at Brandon on 21st, two at Middleton and one at Dosthill on 24th, and then three at Coton and one at Draycote on April 7th, comprising spring passage. Later in the year, a first-winter was at Shustoke on November 20th, while more unusually, an adult was seen flying south over the Burton Dassett Hills with Herring Gulls on December 8th. Worcs An oiled adult at Westwood on February 20th, was followed by further adults there on March 6th, 15th-16th and 25th. An adult was also at Upton Warren on March 16th, with four there briefly on 24th, followed by another later in the day which remained until 25th. Further spring records involved an adult at Bredon's Hardwick on March 20th, with a first-winter there and an adult at Bittell on 24th, and a final adult at Lower Moor on 29th. In autumn, single adults were at Bredon's Hardwick on September 9th, November 16th and 29th, and at Throckmorton on December 1st. Staffs An adult flew through Belvide on January 25th. Spring passage brought adults to Belvide on March 12th and April 15th, Chasewater on March 16th and 24th (three), and Westport on March 23rd, 24th (two), 25th and 31st. There were single adults in late autumn at Belvide on November 5th and 23rd. 91

WMid Single adults visited Fens Pools on March 12th and 18th, Netherton Res on March 13th and April 7th, and Sandwell Valley also on April 7th, with another there on 13th.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Average passage: April 4th (7) - September 30th (7) Warks A notable passage on April 7th, with parties of eight and three through at Draycote, four moving east through Coton and five at Dosthill, all different birds. On return passage there were two at Draycote on July 26th and one on September 7th. Worcs A series of short-stayers and fly-overs began with one at Bredon's Hardwick on April 21st, with two there on August 12th. Two flew east over Grimley on June 17th and one headed north-west over Barnt Green cricket club on August 4th. The latter was perhaps heading for nearby Bittell, but there were no observers around to record whether it got there. Staffs The sole record involved an adult and first-winter at Blithfield on October 10th. W Mid Two flew west over Sandwell Valley on April 29th, followed by one west there on July 25th and a further two south on September 17th, with the latter two appearing at Edgbaston Res briefly some five minutes later. One at Fens Pools on July 6th was the only other record.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant and frequent summer resident, breeding mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys. Average: April 12th (12) - October 7th (12) The first birds were noted at Bittell and Sandwell Valley on April 7th, with others from 10th onwards. Few were seen in autumn beyond mid-September, with the last of 11 at Draycote on 28th. Monthly maxima at selected sites:

A M J J A s Alvecote 6 e 4 - 12 - Draycote 5 20 4 23 38 11 Earlswood 11 4 8 4 12 - Bittell 2 e 3 10 7 5 Bredon's Hardwick 2 4 3 4 3 - Upton Warren 3 4 3 6 7 - Westwood 2 3 - 4 9 - Blilhtield 10 14 10 21 20 2 Chasewater 2 6 4 9 11 2 Berkswell GP - 2 2 12 - _ Edgbaslon Res 10 20 3 8 20 - Sandwell Valley 2 4 2 5 7 - Sheepwash UP 1 3 3 4 1 -

Warks No counts from the important ferneries at Dosthill and Kingsbury, though 60 were estimated in this area on June 2nd. A pair reared at least one young at Brandon after the first breeding attempt last year. No breeding at Draycote this year, with the largest passage count there being 38 on August 21 st. Small 92

numbers were seen at many waters in the north of the county during the summer months, including up to 11 at Packington Great Pool in August. In the south of the county a few were observed at Compton Verney, Napton Res, Whatcote and Wormleighton Res. Worcs No breeding attempts this year. Away from the tabulated sites the only records were of singles at Bredon's Norton on May 30th, Strensham on June 26th and Evesham on 28th, two at Lower Moor on July 21st, one at Bis- hampton Vale Pool on 23rd, five at Grimley on August 11th and one there on 24th. Staffs At least three nesting pairs were in the Barton/Branston area, but no information on breeding success was submitted. No breeding at Belvide this year due to low water levels, where up to three were present in spring and 12 were seen on August 7th. Away from the main sites small numbers were recorded at a further 11 sites, including good numbers in Trentham Gardens during July with a peak of 12 on 9th and 16th. W Mid Breeding in the county cannot be far off with so many birds present during the summer months; with courtship feeding and copulation noted at Berkswell GP and in Sandwell Valley, and both display and nest-scraping reported from Sheepwash UP. Away from tabulated sites birds were noted, mainly from June-August, at: Bartley (max. five on August 2nd), Bradnock's Marsh, Fens Pools, the Netherton area, Park Lime Pits (up to two on five dates) and Stubber's Green (max. seven in early July).

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant, in variable numbers. Average passage: April 9th (7) - October 10th (7) A good spring passage in Warks and Staffs peaked on May 1st, when up to a possible 375 occurred. Warks A good spring passage began with one at Draycote on April 17th, two at Shustoke on 18th, and up to nine at Earlswood Lakes on 20th dropping to four on 21st, when two appeared at Dosthill. Singles then appeared at Shustoke on 22nd and Draycote on 23rd, with five at the latter on 25th, followed by two more at Earlswood on 29th. The main movement began on May 1 st when up to 82 were at Earlswood, 55 at Draycote, 25 at Dosthill and seven at Shustoke. Next day there were still 21 at Draycote and 17 at Earls- wood, while on 3rd at least 41 appeared at Dosthill (with 36 of these departing to the north-west), one at Kingsbury and four at Shustoke. Up to ten were seen again at Dosthill on 4th with two staying to 6th, while Draycote produced six on 4th and singles on 7th-8th, with 18 at Dosthill on the latter date. The last in spring were two at Draycote on 14th. Apart from four at Draycote on July 21st, the only autumn records came from Shustoke where there were two juveniles on September 29th-30th, with one staying to October 6th. Worcs A small spring passage began with singles at Bittell on April 7th (with a Common Tern), 10th, 12th and 15th. Two were at Bredon's Hardwick on April 13th and four moved north over Kempsey on May 2nd. The year's best count was ten at Westwood on May 8th, followed by the last bird at Upton Warren 93

on 10th. A typically light autumn passage consisted of singles at Kempsey on July 22nd and at Upton Warren on 28th and August 27th. A very late juvenile was at Westwood on October 29th. Staffs Three early birds appeared at Blithfield on April 7th, followed by two at Chasewater on 10th and one on 11th-12th. Further April records included four at Belvide on 18th, three at both Westport on 20th and Belvide on 21st, with one there and two at Blithfield on 24th, and up to two at the latter site on 27th- 28th. A major movement occurred on May 1st, when eight at Belvide early on were joined by a flock of at least 65 'commics', most of which were thought to be of this species; while up to 96 were present at Chasewater. Belvide then produced five on May 2nd, four on 7th and two on 10th, with a further influx of 39 at Chasewater on 8th. The last in spring were nine at Blithfield and one at Tittesworth on May 19th. Autumn passage was very poor, with just singles at Belvide on August 7th, September 11th-13th and October 9th, Blithfield on August 18th and Westport also on October 9th. W Mid The first birds appeared on April 14th, with one in Sandwell Valley and two at Fens Pools. Singles at Bartley on April 27th and at Edgbaston Res on May 8th and June 4th were the only other spring records. In autumn, singles were at Bartley on September 5th and at Fens Pools on October 18th-19th.

Little Tern Sterna albifrons Scarce or uncommon passage migrant. Average passage: May 5th (7) - September 2nd (6) Warks A good year with spring singles at Dosthill on May 12th, Draycote on 19th and Earlswood Lakes on 25th. On return passage there was a juvenile at Dray- cote on August 20th-21st and a bird at Earlswood on September 5th. Staffs One at Blithfield on May 19th was the sole spring bird. After two at Westport on July 2nd, there were records at Belvide of two on August 5th and one on September 1st. W Mid One in Sandwell Valley briefly on August 7th.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant, in variable numbers. Average passage: April 21st (7) - October 23rd (7) Warks An average year. In spring the first were eight at Draycote on April 21st, followed by two on 23rd, three on 25th and a single at Coton on 27th. May records came from: Dosthill, one on 3rd-4th, with up to two on 15th and 19th- 20th; Draycote, four on 1st, three on 14th, one on 18th, seven on 19th and three on 20th; Kingsbury, one on 8th; and Shustoke, singles on 1st, 6th and 12th. Two at Dosthill on June 15th were followed by one at Draycote on July 16th, three on 21st and up to two from 22nd-29th. There were then birds here on at least 14 dates during August 5th-30th, with the best counts of 18 on 6th and seven on 11th and 21st. Elsewhere, the only records were of 16 at Dosthill on August 5th and four on 7th and 16th, five at Brandon on 23rd and a single at Shustoke from September 29th-October 4th. Worcs Spring passage commenced with two at Westwood on April 14th, followed by two at Bredon's Hardwick on 17th and singles there and at Upton Warren on 94

21st. After two at the latter site on May 4th, a small influx on 19th produced nine at Bredon's Hardwick, eight at Westwood and three at Upton Warren. A handful of autumn records involved two at Bredon's Hardwick on August 22nd, with single juveniles there from 25th-28th and on September 29th; four at Bittell on August 23rd and two at Kinsham on 26th. Staffs A poor year. The first records were of two at Barton GP on April 21 st and one at Belvide next day. In May, there were singles at Barton GP on 7th and at both Belvide and Chasewater on 14th, with three at Belvide and one at Chasewater on 19th. Belvide then produced singles on June 21st and July 6th, followed in August by three on 5th and one on 6th and 9th, while Blithtield had five on 6th, one on 10th and six on 21st. The year closed with a late bird at Belvide on October 25th-26th. W Mid There were singles in May at Edgbaston Res on 1st, Bartley on 8th and in Sandwell Valley on 27th. Two were at Fens Pools on June 30th.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus Rare passage vagrant (1/10). Although there were no fewer than 16 (out of a total 23) records in the Region during 1969-1983, this eastern marsh tern has been quite a rarity in the midlands in recent years. Apart from three records in 1992, there have been no others since. This was only the second for July, with most appearing during August and September. Warks A summer-plumaged adult was at Draycote on July 26th GR et al. Although seen and verified by many observers, this record has yet to be submitted to BBRC but is included here out of completeness. The first in the county since 1983.

Little Auk Alle alle Rare storm-driven late autumn and winter vagrant (6/10). Staffs A well-watched bird was on the canal at Great Haywood from October 26th- 30th FCG.AGJ, JCTetal.

Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Warks The colony of up to 200 was still at Whitacre waterworks. Worcs 40 counted in Redditch town centre on August 24th. Staffs No information. W Mid Counts included 170 in Wolverhampton town centre in September, 125 in Birmingham Bull Ring in November, and 112 in Oldbury, 230 in Smethwick and 275 in West Bromwich during December. In addition, up to 60 were present all year at Whitmore Reans.

Stock Dove Columba oenas Common resident. Warks Flocks of up to 30 were widely reported. Larger flocks included late winter maxima of 100 at Chesterton on January 12th and 70 at Fenny Compton on February 15th. Later in the year, 45 were at Draycote on July 9th and 120 95

roosted at Brandon on November 23rd, while December maxima included 70 at Fenny Compton on 1st, and 140 at Chesterton and 100 at Northend on 4th. Worcs Several reports came of single breeding pairs at various localities, but the best site was Midsummer Hill where a total of 15-20 pairs bred. Many small flocks were reported, the largest being 160 at Spetchley on January 29th, 50 at Holt on February 29th, 50 at Overbury on June 23rd, 300 at Castlemorton Common on November 3rd and 90 at Westwood on December 20th. Staffs Breeding records came from Aqualate, Coombes Valley (two pairs, cf. three in 1995), Keele University and Onecote. The only flocks of more than 15 reported were of 20 at Tittesworth on January 1st and November 20th, 60 at Elford GP on January 13th and 40 at Little Wyrley on December 17th. W Mid Breeding pairs only reported from Harborne Walkway (two-three), Mons Hill CBC (five, where the population is stable), Park Lime Pits (including several pairs in the old walls of Rushall Manor) and Sandwell Valley, while birds were also present in the breeding season at Halesowen Abbey, Lapal, Minworth SF, Norton (Stourbridge), Tocil Wood (Coventry) and Valley Park. The largest reported flocks were of 24 at Park Lime Pits in January-February, 24 in Sandwell Valley on March 28th and 15 in the Dunstall Park area on December 18th. It was reported as being scarce at Fens Pools this year.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks Abundant in both winters with many flocks of up to 500 seen. In late winter the best counts were of 900 in Ryton Wood on February 16th and 870 at Fenny Compton on 26th. Flock counts were larger late in the year with maxima of 700 at Wormleighton Res on November 20th, 2500 between Fenny Compton and Northend on December 8th, 600 in Kingsbury Wood on 21st, and 1200 at both Ladywalk on 22nd and Chesterton on 30th. A semi- albino seen with normal birds at Fenny Compton on February 26th and March 8th was all white apart from grey primaries. Worcs Very little breeding information received. Five pairs bred at Alfrick, whilst the population was stable at Southcrest and increasing at Webheath. There were many reports of congregations of over 100 birds, but the most impressive accumulations were 1000 at The Three Counties Showground, Malvern on February 18th, 1500 at Aston Mill on December 16th, 1000 at Defford on 24th and 650 at Tibberton on 29th and 31st. Staffs A notable increase to 74 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley, compared with 42 in 1995. Only modestly-sized flocks were recorded during late winter, with 200 moving north over Tittesworth on January 14th, 250 at Belvide on 25th and 130 at Highgate Common in February, being the best counts. Evidence of possible autumn passage was noted at Tittesworth, with 200 flying south- east on October 19th and 100 moving in the same direction on 24th. Counts were higher during the final two months including a maximum of over 800 at Great Wyrley, together with flocks of 500 at Belvide on November 22nd, 300 at Kidsgrove on December 1st and Ashwood on 26th, and 400 at Whitemoor Hay on 30th. W Mid 22 territories on Mons Hill CBC was the same as 1995. Apart from a roost 96

which peaked at an estimated 3000 in Saltwells Wood during both winter periods, fiock size was rather low. The best counts included 114 in Sandwell Valley on April 28th, 250 at Cuckoo's Nook (Aldridge) on August 11th, 150 at Park Lime Pits on December 4th, 200 in Valley Park on 24th and 80 at Marston Green on 27th. A melanistic bird was at Fens Pools on December 9th.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks After a rather poor breeding season, a noticeable influx was reported from the south-east of the county dunng November, Including flocks of 67 al Fenny Compton on 7th, 45 at Knightcote on 25th and 40 at Northend on 27th. Other good-sized flocks included 24 at Whateley on January 7th, 25 at Marton on October 10th and up to 50 at the Ladywalk feeding station in November. Worcs Breeding information included three pairs on Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, and a slight decrease in the Lodge Park/Southcrest area of Red- ditch. Also thought to have had a poor breeding season around Tibberton. The only double-figure flocks reported this year were of 70 at Bredon's Hard- wick on January 2nd and 23 on wires at Pershore on November 5th. Staffs The best flocks were of 67 at Stonehouse Farm, Hulme on October 17th, 20 at Rickerscote on December 20th and a regular roost of up to 40 in a Great Wyrley garden. Numbers were down by 50% at Highgate Common. W Mid A further decline on the Mons Hill CBC, where numbers have dropped from seven territories in 1994, to three in 1995 and down to only one this year. The largest flocks were of 28 in February and 25 in December in a south Walsall garden, and 43 at Balsall Common on October 6th.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur A fairly common though declining summer resident and passage migrant, mainly now in the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Average: April 25th (61)- September 24th (61) The first spring bird was seen at Belvide on April 26th, with the main movement from May 4th. The last in autumn occurred at Fenny Compton on September 18th. Warks Thinly distributed, especially in the north where still declining. Records came from 34 localities, with probable breeding territories at: Alvecote (two), Bascote, Bearley, Bentley Park, Dordon, Dosthill/Kingsbury (two, cf. five there as recently as 1989), Fenny Compton (three), Hodnell, Knightcote, Lower Radbourn, Marlcliff, Newbold Comyn, Polesworth (only one due to hedge laying, cf. three in 1995), Priors Hardwick, Shuckburgh Hills, Snowford, Ufton Fields, and at both Wormleighton Res and village. Worcs Reported from 44 localities, including four pairs at Church Lench, two pairs at Little Comberton (the first increase at that site in 21 years) and two pairs at Old Hills Common. An undisclosed site in the Lenches had seven singing males on May 13th. The best late summer flocks were of ten at Lower Moor on July 14th and eight at Ryall on August 12th. Staffs One or two were noted during the breeding season at Ashwood, Belvide, R.Dove in the Needwood area, Drayton Bassett, Elford GP, Fauld, Highgate 97.

Common and Whitemoor Hay. A migrant at Westport on May 12th was the first there for many years. W Mid Singles in Sandwell Valley on May 7th and at Fens Pools on 18th were the only records.

Ring-necked Parakeet Psiltacula krameri Scarce feral visitor which has bred. Warks A parakeet probably of this species was seen at Brandon on January 7th and another flew over the M6 near Ansty on March 27th. Worcs Singles in the Wyre Forest on May 11th and in Evesham from December 10th-12th.

W Mid One at Netherton Res on May 30th.

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Common summer resident, which has declined in recent years. Average: April 10th (60) - September 4th (59). After the first at Anslow on April 8th, birds were calling in many areas from 14th onwards with a pronouced arrival on 19th. The last sightings in late summer were of single juveniles at Knotbury and flying over Warwick town centre on August 17th. Warks Reports came from 36 localities, including four singing males at Fenny Compton and ten at BAD Kineton, the latter count being only half the average. y'-^S'- Worcs Singing males reported from 30 sites, with "^vWV four at Castlemorton Common, Old Hills "* Common and Upton Warren, and three at both Lower Moor and Seckley Wood the best counts. Staffs Recorded at 23 sites, including six at Belvide on May 6th and two-three males holding territory at Aqualate, but with most other records coming from Can- nock Chase and the region of the North Staffs Moors. At Doxey it was again scarce, with only two Reed Warbler's nests holding young. P^'t Cuckoo (John Teasdale) 98

W Mid Records during the period April-June came from: Bartley, Copsewood Spin- ney in Binley, l-ens Pools, Harborne, llley, Nelherton Res, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Streetly, but again with little evidence of local breeding. The last birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on July 1st and at Sheepwash UP on 10th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent but much declined resident. Warks Possibly increasing in central and southern districts aided by introductions, where three pairs were proved to have bred (two of which raised ten young between them) and birds were seen during the breeding season in at least six other localities, at several of which breeding was suspected. Also seen at one site in the north during the summer. Outside the breeding season there were further sightings at Avon Dassett, BAD Kineton, Brailes, Compton Verney, Compton Wynyates, Curdworth, Dosthill, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Hunts Green, Ladbroke, Ladywalk, Lighthorne Quarry, Packington, Shustoke and Wellesbourne. Worcs Reported in the breeding season at several localities in the Teme Valley, a site north of Kidderminster and near Stourport. Outside the breeding season noted at: Eardiston, Grimley, Hartlebury, Holt Fleet, Larford, Little Comberton, Martley, Pitcher Oak Wood, Salwarpe, Sheriff's Lench, Soulhcrest, Spetchley, Wichenford and Whittington. A bird found dead at a farm near Upton Warren on March 5th had been ringed as a nestling a year earlier near Redditch. Staffs Single pairs bred at Kings Bromley (six young) and Standon Moor (five young), while two pairs were present during the breeding season at Aqualate. Also present in summer at Blithbury, Coombes Valley, Handsacre, Lichfield, Little Stoke, Rollaston Park, Seighford, Six Ashes, Slindon, Stone, Whitemoor Hay and Yoxall Park, at several of which pairs were seen. Further sites to attract this species in winter included Filleybrooks, Four Ashes, Gnosall, Himley, Lapley and Shipley. One of the birds ringed at Standon during the summer was found injured at Coley Mill, Aqualate on November 9th. W Mid One in Sutton Park on February 9th presumably emanated from a nearby release scheme, while an escaped bird was seen in Valley Park on August 30th, with another hunting over rough grassland there on December 4th. A bird was also watched hunting over Stonebridge Meadows at Whitley (Coventry) from March 4th-9th, while singles were seen flying over the A45 near Birmingham Airport on October 24th and in the Peddimore area near Sutton Coldfield on 25th.

Little Owl Athene noctua Common resident. Warks Only five pairs bred in Fenny Compton parish (cf. ten in 1995), a decrease thought to be due to severe winter weather early in the year. Also recorded less frequently this year in the Bidford/Marlcliff area but this was thought to be a result of habitat destruction. Generally however it seems to be doing very well, with reports coming from a record total of 58 localities, including proven breeding at Chesterton, Priors Marston and Stoneythorpe (Southam). 99

Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Abberton, Broome, Burcot and Stourport. Noted at a further 39 localities throughout the county, including Timberhonger where six-eight pairs were present in an area of just two square miles. Staffs Reported during the year at 27 localities, including three territories at Belvide and proven breeding in Marston Lane, Stafford. Records came from all parts of the county, including the northern moorlands where birds were seen at Gun Hill, Ipstones, Knotbury, the Roaches, Tittesworth and on the Weaver Hills. W Mid Breeding season records came from Bradnock's Marsh, Cheswick Green and Clayhanger, with probably two pairs present at both Park Lime Pits and Sand- well Valley. Outside this period further sightings were reported from Barston, Dorridge, llley, Monkspath, Pelsall Wood, Shirley, Temple Balsall and Wood- gate Valley. One heard in the Compton area of Valley Park in late August was a rare visitor to that area.

Tawny Owl Strix aiuco Common resident. Warks Well reported this year with records from 35 localities distributed throughout the county. Six pairs were located breeding in the 941 hectares of mainly farmland in Fenny Compton parish, and other breeding records came from BAD Kineton, Compton Wynyates, Ladywalk and Priors Marston. Worcs Breeding was proved at Abberton, Frankley, Lower Moor, Seckley Wood and in the Wyre Forest, while birds were reported from a further 22 localities. Staffs Reported from 22 localities, including seven breeding pairs in Coombes Valley (where numbers stable) and two pairs at Belvide. W Mid Pairs bred in the Dunstall Park/Valley Park area and in Park Wood, Canley. Single pairs were probably breeding in Bilston Cemetery and in the Streetly area, with birds also present in the breeding season atTocil Wood (Coventry) and Edgbaston Park. Outside this period further records came from: Bourn- ville, Brueton Park, Compton, Fens Pools, Harborne, King's Norton, a south Walsall garden and at Whitmore Reans.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks A poor year. Two were at Brandon on January 28th and up to five were roosting there from December 13th-31st, with unconfirmed claims of up to nine reported from here during the latter period. Two at Kingsbury on March 25th was the only other record. Worcs One at Upton Warren on December 17th. Staffs Single pairs bred on Cannock Chase (four young) and at Park Hall CP (two young). In addition four were reported from the usual breeding area of Coombes Valley in June. The only other records received were of a peak of six roosting at Park Hall CP on January 13th and one at Doxey from June 23rd-July 7th. W Mid In December up to six were present in Sandwell Valley, while one found in Valley Park on 15th was the first for the area. 100

Short-eared Owl Asio flammea Uncommon winter visitor in variable nuuihtm,. Scaiun and erratic breeder, mainly on the northern moorlands. Another poor year. Warks Singles at Brandon on January 19th and Long Itchington on February 27th, were followed by late birds at Draycote on May 3rd and Knightcote on 4th. In the autumn there were singles at Draycote on September 27th-28th and on October 13th and 17th, followed by one at Dosthill on 29th. One at Kingsbury on December 5th apparently moved to nearby Lea Marston from 8th onwards, being joined by a second bird from 25lh-3lsl. There was also one near Barford on December 30th. Worcs There were singles at Castlemorton Common on January 7th, near Upton Snodsbury on February 16th, Broadway on October 1st and Larford on November 23rd. Staffs A pair bred at Swallow Moss. The only other records were of two at Barton GP on January 22nd, singles there and at Croxall on March 30th, and at Belvide on April 17th and Morridge on August 26th.

Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon and very local summer resident. Rare passage migrant. Average: May 16th (54) - August 21st (39) First reported from Cannock Chase on May 25th when four were seen. Worcs This species is very rarely seen on autumn passage, so a male flushed at Defford on August 21st KH was an exceptionally lucky find. Staffs Under-recorded from Cannock Chase, with most reports coming as usual from Anson's Bank (up to four seen) and the nearby Katyn Memorial area (two churring males). Of more interest was a churring male on the Bleak- house open-cast site from July 16th-27th.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 22nd (62) - September 25th (62). An early arrival began with birds at Westwood on April 13th, Belvide on 14th and Brandon (three) on 15th, with the main movement from 20th. Conversely very few were seen after late August this year, with the latest at Seighford on September 17th. Warks An unusually early arrival with small numbers passing daily from April 20th, and building up to flocks of up to 80 at both Draycote and the Tame valley by the end of the month. The largest counts included 1000 on May 11th and 2000 on 18th at Dosthill, with 1000 on May 2nd, 1500 on 18th and 2500 on June 30th at Draycote. Worcs Very few concentrations reported. The largest spring counts were in May, with 200 at Upton Warren on 21st and 31st, and 500 at Westwood on 26th. Few post-breeding flocks of any size were noted, and apart from 500 at Upton Warren on July 19th, 45 north of Conderton on August 10th was the largest. An intriguing report concerned a swift with a white rump seen briefly at Arrow Valley Lake on June 12th. 101

Staffs The largest concentrations were in May, with peaks of 500 at Blithfield on 4th, 1000 in the Dosthill north area on 18th and 2000 at Belvide on 20th. Post- breeding flocks included 100 passing over Rickerscote on July 15th and 55 at a breeding colony at May Bank, Newcastle on August 8th, with all the latter having gone the next day. W Mid The only breeding record received was of several pairs nesting in older-type housing in Hardwick Road, Streetly. The highest counts comprised 50 at Berkswell GP on May 16th, 400 in Sandwell Valley on 22nd and 150 at Sheep- wash UP on August 7th. A partial albino was at Fens Pools on May 5th.

Alpine Swift Apus meiba Very rare vagrant (3/10). The fifth Regional record of this powerful south European swift, with the last coming from Lower Moor, Worcs in April 1994. All four previous records were in spring. Staffs One was watched at Belvide on July 14th SAR, PTi. This was the first county record.

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Warks Fewer records than last year, presumably due to the effects of the severe winter weather. Breeding proven at Ladywalk and Stockton, and suspected at Brandon, Dosthill/Kingsbury and Polesworth (two pairs), with breeding season records also from Kineton, Lea Marston and Marlcliff. Reports came from a further 19 localities, chiefly in autumn and early winter. One fell victim to a cat on the canal in Warwick on December 7th. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Dowles Brook (two pairs) and The Knapp, with further breeding season reports from Alfrick, Bewdley, Eckington, Grimley, Ham Bridge, Horsham, Orleton, Stanford Bridge, Strensham, Upton Warren, Westwood, Wilden, Witchbatch and Worcester. Noted outside the breeding season at a further 12 localities, including Kidderminster town centre. Staffs Again no confirmed breeding records, though well reported along the R.Dove and on the canals around Ashwood and Gothersley, including six at the latter on August 3rd. Otherwise the few reports came from Belvide, Chasewater, Hollybush Lake, Tlttesworth and Westport. W Mid Breeding season records emanated from Harborne (Bourn Brook), Park Lime Pits (Rushall Canal), Saltwells NR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and at several sites along the R.Stour and Stourbridge Canal. At several of these breeding was thought possible, as it was in Walsall Arboretum (a traditional site), where three on August 29th was presumably a family party. Outside this period birds were also reported from these sites and at: Bradnock's Marsh, Buckpool, Coalbournbrook, the Delph (Dudley Canal), Fens Pools, Kings- winford Park, Mushroom Green Marsh, Netherton Res and nearby canal, Valley Park and Woodgate Valley.

Hoopoe Upupa epops Scarce passage migrant. Rare in winter. Two typical records of spring overshoots. 102

Staffs One in Trentham Gardens on April 17th NC, JAL had apparently been present for a few days. W Mid A well-watched bird frequented the Bentley Lane area in Willenhall from April 21st-24th TW et al.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. A former summer resident, last breeding in 1941. Warks A bird visited a garden in Long Lawford on September 6th JH. Worcs One in a garden near Oddingley from September 16th-19th PM.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Common resident. Records seem to indicate that this species is most numerous in the southern half of the Region. Warks Pairs bred at BAD Kineton, Brandon, Burton Dassett, Fenny Compton, Lady- walk (four pairs in area), Lighthorne, Packington (at least two), Priors Marston and Wormleighton Res. No apparent decrease noted, and in fact at Hatton it was thought to be commoner this year than previously. Reports from a total of 69 localities, with the majority from the south of the county. Worcs Four pairs were present at Midsummer Hill and three pairs at Old Hills Common, while breeding was also noted at Drakes Broughton, Lower Moor and Westwood. In all reported from 56 localities, including 37 in the breeding season. A party of eight were in Happy Valley on the Malvern Hills on October 24th. Staffs Excessively under-recorded in the county, with reports from only seven sites and no breeding records received. W Mid At least four pairs were present in the breeding season at Saltwells NR and three pairs in Sandwell Valley, with further records during this period at: Coombeswood, Dorridge, Halesowen Abbey, Harborne NR, llley, The Lea- sowes, Lower llley, Mons Hill, Norton (Stourbridge), Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Pelsall North Common, Streetly ('still quite common'), Sutton Park, Valley Park and Woodgate Valley. An adult and two juveniles at Fishley on Septem- ber 2nd also indicated local breeding. Reports came from 11 additional sites, including as close to the city centre as Deersleap Wood (in north-west Edgbaston) and Edgbaston Park. The highest count comprised seven in Sandwell Valley on September 16th.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopus major Common resident. Warks Very widely reported from a total of at least 75 localities, although breeding was only reported at Brandon, Farnborough, Packington and Wormleighton Res. Three pairs were present at Ladywalk and four pairs in Kingsbury Wood. Worcs Breeding pairs confirmed at: Alfrick (two), Birchen Coppice, Bittell, Bredon Hill, Kempsey Common, Lower Moor, Midsummer Hill (four), Trench Wood (three) and Westwood. Reported from a further 39 sites, of which 24 were during the breeding season. 103

Staffs Evidence of breeding came from: Abbots Bromley, Ashwood, Blithfield, Bunker's Hill Wood (Whittington), Cannock Chase (Seven Springs and Sherbrook, Valley), Gothersley and Little Wyrley. W Mid Breeding season records reported from: Dorridge Park (less frequent this year), Edgbaston Park, Harborne NR, Marston Green, Mons Hill, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells Wood (two-three pairs), Sandwell Valley, Streetly, Sutton Park, Valley Park and Woodgate Valley. Ten further sites had birds during the winter months, including close to Birmingham city centre at Cannon Hill Park, Deersleap Wood and Edgbaston Res.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopus minor Fairly common resident. Warks Apparently thinly but widely distributed, with reports from: Avon Dassett, Bentley Park, Bowshot Wood, Brandon, Coombe, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Haseley, Itchington Holt, Kineton, Ladywalk, Leamington Spa, Light- home, Meon Hill, Packington, Ryton Wood, Seeswood, Shustoke (three on April 11th), Southam, Stoneythorpe (three on January 31st), Stratford-upon-Avon, Sutton-under-Brailes, Tysoe and Welcombe Hills. Worcs Two pairs were present along Dowles Brook in the Wyre Forest, while further reports came from: Arley Wood, Bittell, Chase End Hill, Craycombe Bank, Croome Court, Grimley, Habberley Valley, Harpley, Hewell Park, Hindlip Pool, Kempsey Common, Little Witley, Naunton Beauchamp, New Parks, Old Yew Hill Wood, Piper's Hill, Slade Wood, Stanley Wood, Tibberton, Trench Wood, Trimpley, Upton Warren, Webheath, Westwood, Wilden and Witchbatch. Staffs Very few records submitted. Birds were seen regularly during the year in the Seven Springs area of Cannock Chase. Otherwise the only records were of a family of five at Calton on June 5th, and a bird in a Pattingham garden on July 20th and August 6th. W Mid The only indications of possible breeding involved a pair in Edgbaston Park during February-March, a male drumming in Sandwell Valley on April 26th, and a pair present in the breeding season at Whitley (Coventry). Further singles were noted in Sandwell Valley on February 25th, August 11th and November 15th; and at Saltwells Wood on January 14th, an Oldswinford garden on 25th, Tettenhall on March 3rd, Crowther Road Wood on April 6th, Wightwick on September 17th, Harborne NR on 23rd, Monkspath on 30th, Streetly on November 23rd and Valley Park on December 15th. Additionally, 104

one in a Penn garden on July 21st was the first record there since it was last visited snmfi thirty ypar<; previouslyl

Wood lark Lullula arborea Resident until early 1960's, but now rare visitor (4/10). Staffs A pair were again present at the confidential site first occupied in 1994, with records from March 6th-June 19th, though once again breeding could not be confirmed.

Skylark Alauda arvensis Abundant though much declined resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Nine territories along the R.Avon from Bidford-Marlcliff was the same as last year, but at The Somers the population had plummeted to just three pairs (cf. seven in 1995, eight in 1994). The BAD Kineton summer count also registered a decline with only 34 birds located, about half the usual number. A set- aside field at Rugby held up to five singing males in spring before it was ploughed in May, the fate of many small populations. On a more positive note, one observer found small numbers breeding on seven of the county's golf- courses, showing that rough grassland on these sites may provide vital breeding refuges from the surrounding, increasingly sterile, farmland. Apart from 400 at BAD Kineton on February 24th, no late winter flock exceeded 50. In the autumn, south-west passage along the hills in the south-east of the county peaked at up to 250 per hour on October 1st-2nd in the Fenny Compton-Wormleighton area. Feeding flocks included 200 at Fenny Compton on October 7th, 140 at Wishaw on 12th, 145 in the Hodnell area on November 25th and 100 at Draycote on 30th. Worcs A continuing decline in the breeding population was reported from the south-east of the county PFW. This was reflected in a decline along the Malverns from British Camp-The Gullet, from six pairs in 1995 to three pairs (cf. 17 pairs there in 1989) TT;, a drop back to two pairs (from four) at North Piddle, and just one pair at Webheath (cf. two in 1995). Well reported in both winter periods, the largest flocks being 100 at Larlord on January 1st, followed by an exceptional hard weather movement of 1500 south over Bitted on 27th, 100 at Wadborough on February 2nd, 250 at Lower Moor on 6th, 100 at Upton Warren on 17th, and in December, 100 at Westwood on 6th-7th. Staffs Counts of breeding pairs included six on an Aqualate setaside, three on Doxey CBC, three at Gun Hill, five on Orchard Common and ten at Seighford. The largest winter counts occurred during the first two months, including a hardweather movement of 240 over Belvide in January and 200 at Pendeford Mill NR on February 1st, with smaller flocks of 80 at Seighford and 60 at both Croxall and Whitemoor Hay. In the autumn, 100 flew west over Belvide in three hours on October 17th, and flocks of around 150 were seen at Alrewas GP on November 19th and at Crossplains. W Mid Breeding season territories were reported from: Barr Beacon area, Berkswell GP (three), Birmingham Airport, Brades Hall, Cinder Bank, Coombeswood, Dunstall ParkA/alley Park (at least six), Hillwood Common area (two-three), 105

llley (six), Marston Green Rec. Ground, Meriden GP (at least three), Minworth SF (at least two), Netherton Hill (one), Norton area (three), Park Lime Pits CBC (three), Pelsall North Common (three), Sandwell Valley (at least ten), Sheepwash UP, Streetly area (one-two), Stubber's Green (one-two) and Sutton Park. At the beginning ot the year 40 were in Sandwell Valley on January 1st, while there were hardweather movements of 181 over the Netherton Hill area (in five-and-a-half hours) and 80 over Bumble Hole on February 6th, with a further 148 passing over Netherton Hill in ninety minutes next day. The only notable autumn flock comprised 140 on the county boundary near Wishaw Lane on October 12th, the next best being a peak of 24 at Fens Pools on 18th.

Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris Rare autumn and winter vagrant (4/10). This exceptional arrival of seven birds moves the number of Regional records on from seven to twelve.

Shore Lark (Phil Jones)

Worcs A party of three flew into Upton Warren from the north on October 15th and spent a couple of hours feeding at the edge of the slightly saline Flash Pools AFJ, JNJ et al. In November, a male was watched at close range on Worcs Beacon on 1st MP, and another male was found on a ploughed field near Caunsall on 14th PT, SDEW. These were the first in the county since 1987. Staffs Single males were present at Tittesworth from November 20th-December 8th BH, PAW etal. and Chasewater from December 14th-31st MY etal.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common though local and much declined summer resident. Wide- spread on passage. Average: March 21st (61) - October 10th (61) The first spring bird was seen at Draycote on March 15th, with birds arriving 106

daily thereafter. By contrast to the good numbers in spring it was a poor autumn, with only small numbers noted in September up to the third week. A late straggler was at Tittesworth on October 13th. Warks The only reported colony was again at Ladywalk where twenty pairs nested in the riverbank. Spring numbers were substantially up on last year, with maxima in the Tame valley of 100 through Dosthill on March 24th, an excellent 520 in poor weather at Shustoke on April 12th, 150 at Ladywalk on 13th, 100 at Kingsbury WP on 17th and 250 at Coton on May 2nd. Elsewhere there was maxima of 100 at Brandon on April 10th and 500 at Draycote on 24th, but in the southern part of the county the largest count was only 30 at Worm- leighton Res on April 15th and 22nd. Few reports on return passage, with numbers apparently genuinely low. The only large flock was 400 at Draycote on August 29th. Worcs Two pairs at Beckford represented a return to what was formerly a very large colony, whilst at least two nest holes were occupied at Grimley. A new colony was discovered in a sand quarry at Madeley Heath, where 90 nest holes were counted. No other breeding information received. Several substantial spring concentrations suggested that the species is continuing to recover its numbers. The largest were 100 at Upton Warren on April 15th, 115 at Lower Moor on 17th, 200 at Larford on 20th, 150 at Bredon's Hardwick on 28th and an impressive 700 at Westwood on May 16th. Staffs The largest reported colonies comprised 100 pairs at Branston GP and 80 at Croxden GP, but a poor year was experienced at the R.Dove colonies where many holes were 'dug out' and few juveniles seen. Spring maxima included 50 at Westport on April 12th, 40 migrants moving east along the R.Dove on 14th, 500 at Belvide on 18th, 100 at Aqualate on 20th and 300 at Croxall on May 2nd. The largest autumn flock was just 30 at Blithfield on August 26th. W Mid A total of 358 holes were counted in the Meriden GP complex (centred on Comets End), an increase on 1995. There were also 15 burrows (cf. 25 in 1995) in nearby Somers Road GP, where 100 were counted on June 2nd. Spring maxima away from Meriden was generally higher than last year, and included 30 at Fens Pools on April 9th, 70 in Sandwell Valley on 10th, 30 at Bartley on 16th, 100 at Berkswell GP on 17th, 30 at Sheepwash UP on 20th, 30 at Netherton Res on May 10th and 40 again at Fens Pools on 15th. Small numbers were reported from a further seven sites.

Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Average: March 31st (62) - November 2nd (62) Another early arrival began with singles at Draycote, Ladywalk and Upton Warren on March 23rd, with birds arriving daily thereafter. Relatively few were seen beyond the first week in October, with the latest at Belvide and Worm- leighton Res on 25th, apart from a bird at Tibberton on November 4th. Warks Breeding numbers continue to be at a low level in many areas. A further decline at BAD Kineton resulted in only five birds located on the summer count which was the lowest since the count began in 1987 and which is more than 75% below average! The highest spring counts included maxima of 100 107

at Wormleighton Res on April 22nd, 300 at Draycote on 24th, 150 at Coton on May 2nd, with 200 at Dosthill and 150 at Shustoke on 4th. The largest post-breeding flocks included 300 at Whatcote on August 8th and 140 at Tenny Compton on 14 th, both involving mainly juveniles. Pronounced autumn passage to the south-west (eg. 110 over Lighthorne Quarry on September 11th and 150 over Wormleighton Res on 26th) was noted following the southern hills, seemingly bypassing the main northern waters from where few reports were received. Worcs No change at Alfrick where two pairs bred, but failed to breed at North Piddle (cf. two pairs in 1995). At Timberhonger 18 young were fledged from four nests. The largest spring accumulations were 250 at Upton Warren on April 29th and 200 at Westwood on May 1st, while the highest autumn counts were of 440 roosting at Strensham on August 18th and 100 at Bredon Hill on September 1 st. Staffs Significant spring counts included 700 at Belvide on April 28th, 275 at Westport and 200 at Tittesworth on 29th, over 100 at Aqualate on May 1st and 300, again at Westport, on 15th. In autumn, up to 3500 roosted in reed- mace (with some in hawthorns) at Pool Dam Marsh on September 5th, while a smaller roost of 300 was present at Betley Mere during August and the first half of September. There was no roost at Doxey this year. Autumn maxima elsewhere included 100 along the R.Dove on August 6th, 50-60 per hour moving through Belvide on September 13th, 400 at Tittesworth on 29th and up to 150 at Coombes Valley during the same month. W Mid The only proven breeding localities reported were at Barr Common, Sandwell Valley and Streetly. At the last named site at least two pairs reared young in local riding stables. In addition, probable breeding was noted at Lower llley and possibly in the Mons Hill area, while at Woodgate Valley Farm birds were put off from breeding by building work. The largest concentrations occurred in spring, and included more than 170 at Fens Pools on April 29th, 50 at Sheepwash UP on May 2nd, 60 at Netherton Res on 10th and 50 in Sandwell Valley on 22nd.

House Martin Delichon urbica Very common summer resident and passage migrant. Average: April 7th (62) - October 31st (62) A March arrival now seems to be becoming the norm for this species, with the first at Sandwell Valley on 24th and Draycote on 25th and others arriving during the next few days (including eight at Draycote by the 31st). An early departure saw very few remaining beyond October 5th, with the very last being five at Bittell on 16th. Warks Six nests at Packington Hall were down from eight in 1995, but few other breeding comments were received. The only sizeable spring flock reported was 500 at Draycote on May 1st. On return passage apart from 100 at Lady- walk on September 6th, the larger flocks were again like Swallow mainly in the south. These included maxima of 300 at Fenny Compton and 100 at Worm- leighton Res on September 20th, and 100 south over Meon Hill on October 5th. The largest autumn count at Draycote was only 80 on September 22nd. 108

Worcs As usual very little breeding information. However, the discovery of 12 nests at Ham Bridge represented a lelurn to a former breeding site which had held 40-50 pairs in 1987. Of several flocks reported in spring, the largest were of 170 at Upton Warren and 150 at Westwood, both on May 16th. A party of 100 over British Camp on June 21st probably involved local breeding birds from the Malvern area. Autumn passage was strongest in late September and early October, with the largest counts of 150 at Kinsham on August 10th, 100 at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 14th, 150 over North Hill on 15th, 120 moving south over Little Comberton on 30th and 100 over British Camp on October 1th. Staffs A substantial increase was noted at the Hanchurch Water Tower colony, with 34 nests occupied (cf. 22 in 1995). The six nests at Wolstanton Working Men's Club was unchanged from last year, while a few nests were noted at Alton Towers. Spring maxima included 60 at Croxall on May 4th, 350 at Westport on 16th, 200 at Tittesworth on 20th and 500 at Belvide on June 3rd. In autumn there were over 200 at Doxey on August 26th, 200 at Belvide on September 21st and 300 at Tittesworth on 29th. W Mid Small breeding colonies were reported from Walsall Road in Aldridge, Gillot Road in Edgbaston, on the periphery of Sheepwash UP and on a new housing estate off Hardwick Road in Streetly (where up to six pairs). The few records received of large flocks were of 500 in Sandwell Valley on May 22nd, 200 over Dunstall Park on August 12th and Very large numbers' passing through Sandwell Valley on September 9th.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Fairly common though declining summer resident and passage migrant, becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and western parts of the Region. Average: April 7th (59) - September 20th (57) An early arrival, with four at Draycote on March 29th being the first. The last was seen on September 21st at Walton Hill (Clent), which is about average. Warks No sign of any breeding attempt in the county for the second year running, although a report of a male in brief song flight at Kingsbury Wood on May 22nd gave some hope for the future. By contrast more were noted on passage than usual, with spring records of four at Draycole on March 29th, one on 30th and two on April 2nd, followed by further singles at Napton Res on April 7th, Lighthome Quarry on 16th and near Alcester on 19th. Return passage involved singles at Shipston-on-Stour on July 19th, Fenny Compton on 24th, The Somers on August 22nd, Wormleighton Res on 28th and Light- home Quarry on September 11th. Worcs Breeding season reports from: Arley Wood, Bredon Hill, British Camp-The Gullet (four pairs), Castlemorton Common, Midsummer Hill (two pairs), Pound Green Common, Walton Hill and the Wyre Forest, where at least eight singing males were present south of the disused railway track at Dowles Brook and five sang in the New Parks area. Noted on spring passage at Trench Wood in late April, and in autumn at Happy Valley and over Walton Hill during September. 109

Staffs On Cannock Chase, ten singing males were present along Sherbrook Valley and eight were in the Seven Springs area. Other breeding season territories were reported from: Barlaston Downs, Chumet Valley (two), Coombes Valley (seven), Goldsitch Moss, Highgate Common (three), Ipstones Edge, Kinver (two), Park Hall CP and Prestwood. Single passage migrants were also reported from Belvide, the R.Dove and Rollestone Park, with three at Tittes- worth on April 16th. W Mid No news from Sutton Park, the sole remaining breeding site, this year. Spring migrants were noted in April at Sheepwash UP on 13th and 20th, Harborne NR on 15th, Netherton Hill on 17th and 19th (two), Sandwell Valley on 22nd and 23rd (two), and Netherton Res on 28th. Autumn passage began with a single over Oldbury on August 14th, followed by singles at Fens Pools on 24th, Balsall Common on 26th, Netherton Hill on 27th, Darby's Hill on 30th, Sandwell Valley on 31st, September 6th and 9th (three), and at Sheepwash UP on 8th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage and in winter. Warks Breeding pairs reported only from set-aside at Hurley STW (three, cf. two in 1994), and Lighthorne Quarry (eight, cf. seven in 1995 and six in 1994). It was reported to be scarce this year in the usual habitat at Dosthill due to over- grazing by cattle. Other singing males noted in possible breeding areas at BAD Kineton, Brandon (three), Coton, Gaydon Tip, near Lighthorne Church and at Whatcote. The best late winter flock was 97 at Abbots Salford on January 1st, with 30-40 also at BAD Kineton and Fenny Compton in February. Spring passage was most marked at Draycote where numbers were estimated at 250 on March 29th, 300 on 30th and 350 on 31 st, but were down to 60-80 from April 1st-3rd, with a later peak of 70 on 13th. Other maxima included 60 at Brandon on March 27th, 45 at BAD Kineton on April 2nd, 50 at Lighthorne Quarry on 9th, and up to 40 at The Somers during the same period. Return passage picked up earlier than usual in September, with already 170 at Lighthorne Quarry on 11th. In the Fenny Compton-Worm- leighton area, average numbers per hour coasting south-west along the hill scarps were estimated at 60 on September 14th, 80 on 26th-27th, 150 on October 1st and 250 on 2nd, but declining to less than 30 beyond 12th. During this period other maxima included 45 on llmington Downs on Septem- ber 15th, 100 at Baginton on 22nd, 50 at Whatcote on October 1st, 120 at Meon Hill on 5th and 60 at Draycote on 18th. Passage petered out around November 1st and for the rest of the year only small parties were noted, the best being 30 at Draycote on December 27th. Worcs Breeding season reports from Bredon Hill, British Camp, Castlemorton Common (three pairs) and Walton Hill. A few late winter flocks were reported, with the largest being 100 at Bredon's Hardwick on January 4th, 50 at Tlmberhonger on 15th, 60 at Grimley on 31st and 80 at Wilden on February 6th. During early spring several sites recorded good numbers on passage, with the best counts of 100 at Bredon's Hardwick on March 17th, 100 at 110

Walton Hill on 26th, and 120 at Lower Moor and 90 at Upton Warren, both on 31st. Autumn passage was mainly during September-October, with the best totals of 60 south over Walton Hill on September 21st, 250-300 roosting on Worcs Beacon on 30th and 130 on North Hill on October 10th. There were a few reports of small flocks from November to the year end, the largest being 39 at Wythall on December 4th. Staffs No significant breeding information received, though 60 on the moors at Knotbury on July 6th presumably involved local family groups. Some good- sized flocks were noted during the cold weather early in the year, including counts of 100 at Cannock Chase (flying south-west in an hour on January 6th), Belvide (on January 25th) and Seighford. Spring passage maxima included 150 at Drayton Bassett and 50 at Seighford on March 23rd, 140 at Calton on 24th, over 300 at Belvide on 25th, 150 at Milford on 28th, 60 at Strawberry Hill on April 6th and 50 at Blithfield on 8th. Only small numbers were reported later in the year, the best counts being of 30 moving west over Belvide on October 17th, 26 there on December 28th and 20 at Croxall on 30th. W Mid Breeding was only reported from Sutton Park, although one displayed in Sandwell Valley in early May. Spring passage maxima included over 30 flying north-east over Barr Beacon on March 17th, 200 in Sandwell Valley on 19th, 40 over Netherton Hill on 25th, 60 al Park Lime Pits on 27th, 100 in Valley Park on April 7th, 50 at Park Lime Pits again on 10th and over 20 at Berkswell GP on 14th. Highest autumn counts consisted of over 500 moving south over Fens Pools on October 1st, 100 at Wiggins Hill on 2nd and 30 on Netherton Hill on 3rd, with 50 in Valley Park during December.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks Another good year at Draycote, with one on January 8th followed by up to two from March 14th-April 7th, but with five present on March 23rd and a late single on April 27th. Autumn passage began with an early single on September 28th, followed by up to four on dates during October 5th-27th. Elsewhere there were singles at Shustoke on March 25th-26th, and in October at Dosthill and Shustoke on 6th, Earlswood Lakes on 10th and Wormleighton Res on 11th. Worcs The only spring record was one at Bittell on April 7th. Autumn saw singles south over Westwood and at Bishampton Vale Pool on October 6th, three at Bittell on 11th, one at Wilden on 13th, and up to two at Upton Warren on 22nd-23rd. Staffs On spring passage there were two at Belvide on March 25th and four on 26th, with two also at Blithfield from 25th-27th, and a late bird at Westport on April 23rd. Autumn produced singles at Blithfield from October 6th-13th, Belvide on 26lh-27th and Westport on 30th; with later records from Belvide on November 11th, Blithfield and Westport on 17th, and Tittesworth on 22nd. W Mid Singles occurred at Fens Pools on February 21st and on March 18th and 24th, Sheepwash UP on March 27th and April 7th, Bartley on March 31st and in Sandwell Valley on April 4th. The only autumn records involved singles in Sandwell Valley on October 8th and at Fens Pools on 19th. 111

"Scandinavian" Rock Pipit A.p. iittoraiis Rare or scarce passage migrant. Staffs Two of the four birds at Belvide on March 26th showed characteristics of this race SN. W Mid A bird in summer plumage in Sandwell Valley from March 19th-26th PMH, TCH.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoietta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Average: October 16th (7) - April 20th (7) Warks The only record early in the year was of a bird feeding on the ice at Ladywalk on January 1st JJB. After a single bird at Wormleighton Res on October 25th JJB, all later records came from the Tame valley around Dosthill and Middle- ton. Here there was one from December 7th, increasing to two from 23rd and four from 28th into 1997 JAA, PDH, SMH etal. Worcs Two at Kinsham on March 21 st-22nd DO, WFP, SMW, were followed by one in full summer plumage at Upton Warren on April 22nd-23rd DAJ et al. The only autumn record was of one at Upton Warren on October 22nd-23rd REH, TMH, EGP. Staffs Single birds were at Blithfield on October 19th and November 9th ICW, MY, with two at Westport on 14th and one there on December 9th WJL

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima Fairly common summer resident and common passage migrant. Average: April 1st (60) - October 11th (60) The first in spring were singles on March 31st at both Lower Moor and Dray- cote, with the main arrival from April 5th onwards. A fairly late departure saw the last birds at Blithfield on October 13th, Fenny Compton on 14th and Fens Pools on 19th. A welcome increase was noted in the breeding population in parts of Worcs and south Warks. Warks There was good news from the south-east of the county, where breeding birds were found in at least 16 contiguous parishes during casual fieldwork from Shuckburgh south-west to Chesterton, Lighthome and Kineton, showing it to be still widespread in this district. The highest concentrations of pairs were of 12 at Wormleighton and no fewer than 28 at Fenny Compton, the latter located in the 941 hectares of the parish during more detailed investigation. Of the latter, 20 pairs were nesting in field beans and the rest in wheat and set-aside JJB. Ten located on the summer count at BAD Kineton was marginly higher than in any year since the count began in 1987. Elsewhere in the county there was as usual little information. Four pairs bred in riverside meadows at Shipston-on- Stour and the species was present in the Bidford area in the breeding season. In the north very few pairs were again present with just one or two reported at Dosthill, Nuneaton, Rugby, Shustoke and The Somers. On passage, spring flocks were slightly up from last year, with maxima of up to 52 at Draycote from April 13th-15th and around 50 there on May 2nd, 28 at Dosthill on April 21st and up to 60 roosting at Shustoke during the second week in May. An early assembly of 39 at Draycote on July 3rd presumably included local breeding birds, but the later autumn peak only reached 50 on August 22nd. 20 at 112

Shustoke on August 7th and 25 at Ladywalk on September 14th were the best counts in the north, while maxima in the south-easl included 85 in a mown haymeadow at Fenny Compton on August 14th, 50 roosting near Wormleighton Res on September 3rd-4th and 25 at Lighthorne Quarry on 11th. Worcs Breeding season reports from: Ashmoor Common, Aston Mill (two-three pairs), Beckford, Bickmarsh (three pairs), Bittell, Bredon Hill, Bredon's Hard- wick, Coombe Green Coppice, Croome Perry, Cropthorne, Eastham, Grimley, High Green, Kinsham, Knightwick, Larford, Lower Moor, Sankyns Green, Shrawley, Sinton Green, Strensham, Tlmberhonger, Upton Warren, Westwood and Witchbatch. Several reports of small parties on spring passage, with 78 at Bredon's Hardwick on April 24th easily the largest. Other counts included 25 at Larford on May 1st and 30 at Upton Warren on 2nd. Autumn maxima included up to 42 at Bishampton Vale Pool during August, 20 at Grimley on August 24th and 78 at Bredon's Hardwick on September 9th. Staffs Breeding reported from Aqualate, Belvide, Blithfield, Denstone Hall, Doxey, Seighford and Wheaton Aston, but a negative return came from Tittesworth where birds are usually present. Spring maxima included 84 at Belvide on April 19th, 100 at Croxall on May 3rd, with 40 at Blithfield and 24 at Gailey on 6th. The largest autumn count consisted of 60 at Blithfield (including 20 juveniles) on August 26th, with smaller flocks in many other areas. W Mid Breeding probably took place again in the Wiggins Hill Lane area, while one in a crop of field beans at Hockley Heath and another in the Pedmore area on July 16th may also have been breeding. An excellent spring passage peaked in early May and included small numbers at: Bartley (max. four on May 3rd), Berkswell GP (max. 22 on May 5th), Bilston, Coundon, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools (max. eight on May 19th), Netherton Hill/Res, Sandwell Valley (noted on 40 dates, with peaks of 20 on April 9th and May 2nd-3rd), Sheepwash UP (15 dates, max. 25 on May 1st) and Wyken Slough. Rela- tively scarce as usual on return passage, with a peak of five in the Dunstall and Valley Parks area on August 18th and not more than two recorded from the Netherton area, Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP.

Blue-headed Wagtail M. f. flava Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring. An excellent year for this race in the Region. Warks Single males at Dosthill on April 21st GIG, PDH, Kingsbury on 22nd HD, LJD and Dosthill again on 24th PFA, with a female-type at Shustoke on 25th BLK. The latter observer also noted several variant flava wagtails at Shustoke in spring. In May there was a male at Draycote on 3rd, two on 5th DL and another at Napton Res on 7th JW. Worcs A male was at Bredon's Hardwick on April 21st SJH, followed by up to two from 23rd-28th SJH, RWP, SMW et al., and singles on 30th SMW, and on May 1 st, 5th, 7th and 10th SJH et al. Single males were also at Lower Moor on May 2nd and 5th RAP. Female flava wagtails probably of this race were identified at Bredon's Hardwick on April 14th SMW and again accompanying one or two of the males there late in the month SMW et al., and at Upton 113

Warren on May 3rd SMW. Staffs Single males were at Blithtield on April 23rd GNJ, Croxall on May 3rd DJA, Alrewas GP on 18th ICW, MY, Blithfield again on 19th WJL and 20th MLR, and at Stretton on Juno 18th PWB. W Mid A male at Berkswell GP on April 14th, followed by a female-type on May 9th and two more on 18th NPB . A female-type was also in Sandwell Valley on May 5th DC, TCH.

Grey-headed Wagtail M. f. thunbergi Very rare vagrant (0/10). Originally submitted to BBRC as Black-headed Wagtail (M. f. feldegg), it was eventually accepted as a very dark-headed variety of this race, which replaces the Blue-headed Wagtail over most of northern Scandinavia. W Mid A black-headed male of this race was in Sandwell Valley on April 18th-19th PMH, TCH et al. This appears to be the first Regional record. For a full account see Short Notes.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Fewer records received possibly indicating a real reduction after the cold weather early in the year. Breeding proven at Eathorpe, Kineton, Leamington Spa (Jephson Gardens and Newbold Comyn), Lighthorne and Shipston-on- Stour, with possible nesting also at Clifford Chambers, Draycote, Earlswood, Marlcliff, Salford Priors and Snitterfield. Outside the breeding season the largest count was only four; at Fenny Compton during January and at Lady- walk on February 25th. v Worcs Breeding season reports from: Bewdley, Bittell, Cradley, Dowles Brook (five pairs), Gullet Quarry, Hall Green, Kinsham, Larford, Meadows Mill, New Mill Bridge, Oldington STW (four pairs reared 11 young), Orleton, Podmore Pool, Stockton-on-Teme, Strensham, Upton Warren and Westwood. Noted at a further 15 localities outside the breeding season. Staffs Breeding was reported from Calwich, Coombes Valley (two pairs as last year), Deep Hayes, Greensforge, Musden, Norbury and Tittesworth. Other records came from a further 27 sites around the county. W Mid Breeding season records came from: Birmingham city centre (Birmingham and Fazeley Canal), Edgbaston Res, Harbome (Boum Brook), Mushroom Green Marsh, Netherton Res, Sandwell Valley, Selly Oak (Bourn Brook), Sheepwash UP area, Sutton Park (Bracebridge Pool), Valley Park, Witton Lakes and Woodgate Valley. Reported outside the breeding season from a further 15 localities, including several urban sites. It was frequently reported even in Birmingham city centre, including New Street! The largest parties were of five at Witton Lakes in April and six on the Bourn Brook in Harborne in late July.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A regular roost at the University of Warwick held a peak of 250 in September. 114

Other counts included 50 at BAD Kineton on January 17th, 39 at Dosthill on March 15th, 50 on a newly mown haymeadow al Fenny Compton on Auguct 14th, 50 at Draycote on 22nd, 45 at Packington on newly sown com on October 4th, 30 at Meon Hill on 5th and at least 33 roosting at Brandon on 11th. An albino was seen in Stratford on February 21st and a totally white bird, apart from a single black tail feather, was at Hurley STW on October 11th. Worcs Breeding confirmed only at Arrow Valley Lake, Larford and Upton Warren. Several good-sized flocks were noted, mainly involving birds gathering to roost. The largest were of 120 roosting in silver birches in Kiddormineter town centre on January 16th, 150 at Bredon's Hardwick on March 16th, 150 at Upton Warren on September 10th, 70 roosting at Strensham on 27th, up to 70 at Bishampton Vale Pool during October, 200 roosting at Oldington STW on December 7th and 350 roosting in Worcester city centre on 9th. A leucistic individual was at Lower Moor from January 27th-February 28th, and returned to the area on November 30th. Staffs Most reported flocks were of 25 or under. The larger ones included 80 at Stapenhill on January 18th, 500 at Parkhouse Industrial Estate on February 29th, 54 at Belvide on August 4th and 100 at Blithfield on December 12th. W Mid Breeding only reported from Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP. High numbers were reported from Dunstall Park with 300 in January and 240 in February, while 104 were counted on the former Bilston steelworks site on October 11th. Otherwise counts were low, with maxima of only 20 in Sandwell Valley on March 28th and 30 flying over Sheepwash UP on October 7th. Numbers were reported to be declining at the latter site.

White Wagtail M. a. alba Frequent passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A poor spring, with the majority of records from Draycote where no more than two were reported on seven dates during March 24th-April 20th, with a late bird on May 19th and 21st. The only others consisted of two at Whltacre flashes on April 2nd, two at Coton on 14th, one at The Somers on 16th and three at Dosthill on 23rd.. Worcs The usual crop of April records began with one at Bredon's Hardwick on 4th, with birds present there almost daily from 10th-30th peaking at nine on 16th. The first Upton Warren record was one on 9th, followed by a run of singles until 16th and then three on 17th. Singles also appeared at Larford on 13th, Kinsham on 14th, 16th and 21st, and at Westwood on 19th. Staffs Most records came from Belvide with a good run of records from April 2nd- May 5th, peaking at seven on April 21st. Otherwise there were singles at Westport on April 6th, 18th and 25th, one at Crossplains on 20th, four at Cold Meece on 21st, one at Tittesworth on May 5th and two at Blithfield on 12th. W Mid A good series of records came from Sandwell Valley beginning with two on March 27th, followed by one on 30th and up to three regularly from April 1st- 29th. Also in April three were at Berkswell GP on 18th, with two on 19th and one on 25th; while further singles were at Sheepwash UP on 19th-20th and at Dunstall Park Lake on 28th. 115

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus An erratic and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally widespread during invasion years (6/10). An outstanding late winter invasion, with concentrations in the urban parts of the Black Country, the Potteries and in the Rugeley-Handsacre area. Total numbers are hard to assess, but allowing for many unsubmitted records (including counts of over 200 in Rugeley) and some crossover of birds between flocks, there may have been over 650 involved. It was on a larger scale than the previous peak winter of 1965/6 when although birds were more widely distributed, no count exceeded 50; while this one included several much larger flocks including the Regional record of 150. Interestingly in past invasions the largest flocks (usually 30-50) have also appeared in Newcastle- under-Lyne and in particular, Rugeley. Warks The first to reach the county was seen at BAD Kineton on January 18th PHA, followed by three feeding on haws by the canal at Bradley Green (Grendon) on 26th JLA, a flock of 20 at North Leamington School in Leamington Spa on 29th WTJ, and one found dead at the George Eliot Hospital in Nuneaton on 30th per SMH. Two were seen in Kineton on February 10th NP and one in Lillington on 14th WTJ, while next day there was one in Coleshill BLK, three in Stratford-upon-Avon (and again on 16th) per SMH and four in Water Orton BLK. The final records involved at least one visiting a Kenilworth garden from March 1st-9th per SMH and a bird found dead in a Wellesbourne garden on March 4th per PJC. One autumn record, of a bird reported feeding on ripe apples with Starlings in an Oxhill orchard on November 16th per WWT. Worcs The winter's influx reached the county in early February when one was found on the Habberley Estate at Kidderminster on February 7th, and remained until at least the following day. Up to eight were in the same area from March 11th- 24th Mr Cooper et al. A well-twitched bird was at Headless Cross from February 9th-11th GAF et al., and a further four were at Warndon from 13th- 15th, dropping to three there by 27th CGr, MAS et al. Finally, six were at Tanner's Hill, Bewdley on February 26th BG, JRM. Staffs Half-monthly maxima at the main sites: Feb Mar Apr Brereton s 102 150 134 0 0 Handsacre 12 0 0 8 18 29 Newcastle 0 62 45 30 46 30

The first to appear in the county was seen at Pattingham on January 20th BAD, followed by singles at Keele University on 24th JAL and Sneyd Green on February 1st per DWE. A party of 12 were at Handsacre on February 3rd SAR, while the first to appear at what was to become the main site at Brere- ton (Rugeley) were eight on 5th ESC. There were 14 in Stafford on February 8th-9th ESC, FCG, with 18 moving south over Westlands on 10th and two there on 11th WJL. The first record at the main Newcastle-under-Lyne site was eight on February 17th DWE, WJL, SMW, with numbers both there and at Brereton subsequently rapidly increasing. Records from elsewhere in the Potteries district, probably originating from the Newcastle flock, included two at Keele University on February 22nd per DWE, singles at Ford Green on 116

23rd DK and Basford on 25th WJL, four at Clayton on 29th WJL, 43 in Hanley on April 1st MDS with 16 still there on 3rd AG J, CJ, and ten again in Clayton on 4th NS. A flock of 19 were in Stafford on March 8th MDB, while the same day 20 were found at Highgate Common MDJ, AWS increasing to 28 on 9th BMH. Subsequent March records from the latter district, presumably involving just one or two highly mobile flocks, included 39 at Enville GC on 10th and 37 there on 31st MH, 40 at Swindon on 20th MH, and 20 there on 28th NPB. At the main sites, Newcastle had birds until April 19th when 20 were still present. The last record in Brereton was 120 on March 19th, with small numbers transferring to nearby Handsacre where the final two birds of the spring were seen on April 22nd. W Mid The first bird was found in Willenhall on January 26th per ADB, with subsequent sightings of two in the Castle Lane area of Solihull from 28th-February 3rd GIG, PAH, GJM; one in Bow Street, Bilston on January 28th FD, DSk-, four in a south Walsall garden on February 4th DC/; four along Shakespeare Drive in Shirley on 8th JJB, six in Balsall Heath on 20th REH; and two in Quinton on 23rd BRP. A flock of at least 116 (and possibly 130) were then present in the All Saints Way area of West Bromwich, near Sandwell Hospital from March 8th-11th MY et al., with stragglers remaining until 17th when the last bird was reported TCH. A party of 26 were in Hall Green on March 9th GJM; about 20 in the Lower Hall Lane area of Walsall Market on 15th TAW\ two at Fens Pools on 24th SE, 13 in Sutton New Road, Erdington from March 29th-April 5th TMT, and up to 54 in Willenhall from April 11th-17th ADB. Interestingly, one of this flock was described as a 'runt', which could easily be mistaken for Cedar Waxwing B. cedrorum although sporting garrulus plumage. The last record in the spring involved a party of 17 near Willenhall Fire Station on April 18th HK, which presumably was part of the same flock. There was one autumn record, of a single bird seen at Wrens Nest NR on November 21st DIH.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus gularis An uncommon and declining resident, becoming increasingly restricted to north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Worcs Four pairs bred along Dowles Brook, of which three were successful. Elsewhere, singles were at Witchbatch on April 21st, Eardiston on August 26th and Arley on December 5th, with five located along the R.Rea in the far west of the county on 27th. Staffs Birds were noted during the year at: Baldstones (the first there for ten years), Calwich 117

(two), Coombes Valley (three), Danebridge (two), Denstone, Dydon Wood, Gradbach (two), Ousley Cross (two), Norbury (R.Dove) and Wombourne. W Mid The species was present at a site in the south-west of the county during the early part of the year, in an area where breeding has occurred in the past.

Black-bellied Dipper C. c. cinclus Very rare vagrant (2/10) This bird closely follows the first which was present in Nuneaton during the 1993/4 winter. Others have almost certainly been overlooked in the past. Warks One on the R.Bourne at Shustoke on October 6th ARD was only the second Regional record of this race.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. A considerable decrease was noted in all counties following the harsh winter weather early in the year. Warks The few reports indicate a considerable decline following the cold winter, with only 25 found on the summer count at BAD Kineton (cf. 98 in 1995) which was the lowest since 1991 when 26 were counted following another cold winter. At Fenny Compton it was noted that farmland populations had virtually disappeared whereas those present in the more sheltered environs of the village were only slightly reduced. An unusual nestsite reported in a Priors Marston garden was in a flower basket attached to the house wall. Worcs All the census plot results pointed to a reversal of the recent trend, with a decrease in the breeding population following the cold winter. Dramatic rever- sals at Alfrick, where 16 pairs (cf. 29 in 1995); North Piddle, where 13 pairs (cf. 24 in 1995); and Shortwood Roughs, where seven pairs (cf. 18 in 1995). Southcrest had 15 pairs (cf. 19 in 1994-5), whilst Webheath was down to 13 pairs (cf. 23 in 1995). Staffs A total of 93 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley was well down from the 168 of 1995. At Betley Mere CES, a good breeding season was reported, probably in response to the effects of the cold winter. A total of 14 juveniles trapped was well up from the three of last year. W Mid CBC plot data revealed 34 territories (cf. 50 in 1995) on Mons Hill and 19 at Park Lime Pits. A bird with white wing flashes was reported in Sandwell Valley on April 20th.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Apparently much less affected by the cold weather than the last species, with some sites even recording increases. Warks Like Wren considerably reduced at BAD Kineton by the cold winter with only nine on the summer count (cf. 39 in 1995). Six pairs at Alvecote however is around average. Worcs Increases in the breeding population were noted at Alfrick, 20 pairs (cf. 14 in 1995); North Piddle, ten pairs (cf. eight in 1995); and Webheath, six pairs (cf. five in 1995). The population was stable at Shortwood Roughs with four pairs 118

(as in 1995), while only Southcrest suffered a decrease, with numbers falling back to the 1994 level of three pairs (cf. seven in 1995). Other counts of singing males included 17 at Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, and 10-12 in the Tibberton area. Staffs The population appeared stable in Coombes Valley with 11 pairs (cf. 12 in 1995 and ten in 1994). W Mid CBC plot counts revealed 12 territories on Mons Hill (cf. 13 in 1994-5) and four at Park Lime Pits.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks A considerable decrease noted at BAD Kineton with 42 logged on the summer count (cf. 99 in 1995); however this was a fall back to average numbers. The few other records received included six pairs breeding at Alve- cote and seven at Ladywalk, where there was an influx of over 20 in September. Worcs Census results were inconclusive, showing contrasting fortunes at different sites. At Alfrick the population increased to 28 pairs (cf. 25 in 1995), whilst at North Piddle there was a decrease to 22 pairs (cf. 26 in 1995). A drop in numbers also occurred at Shortwood Roughs, with nine pairs (cf. 16 in 1995); but nearby plots at Southcrest and Webheath both showed no change, with 13 and ten pairs respectively. Other significant territory counts included 24 on Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, 25 at Midsummer Hill and ten around Tibberton, where the observer considered the species to be increasing. A "suspicious death" was reported at West Hagley where one was found dead after probably being killed by a rival male LRB. Staffs In Coombes Valley 76 pairs bred (down from 88 in 1994-5), while there were 28 pairs in Churnet Woodlands. On Highgate Common, a decline was also evident, with no more than nine logged on monthly counts compared to a peak of 19 in 1995. W Mid As with the previous two species limited data was supplied. CBC plot counts produced 36 territories on Mons Hill (cf. 32 in 1995 and 37 in 1994) and 13 at Park Lime Pits. Territory counts in Coventry included 12-14 at Canley Ford and ten in London Road Cemetery.

Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident to the southern parts of Worcs and Warks. Average: April 19th (62) - July 31st (17) Rather late to arrive this year, with the first birds at Brandon on April 22nd, BAD Kineton on 25th and Old Hills Common on 26th. There were as usual no records beyond early July. Warks Breeding season reports came from just two traditional sites, with four singing at BAD Kineton and two in Bowshot Wood/Fosse Rides. A migrant was seen at Brandon on April 22nd. Worcs The worrying decline of this species was brought home to one observer who failed to find any in the following woods: Atch Lench, Grafton, Old Yew Hill, 119

Slade, Upper Kites and Yeald. All held good populations in the mid-seventies RM. Singing males were found at only six locations; Croome Park, Defford (two), Marsh Common (three), Old Hills Common, Ripple (four) and Stren- sham.

UlacK Hedstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A good spring began with up to three with Northern Wheatears at Bermuda on April 2nd RC, SMH, followed by single females at Draycote on 7th SMH, Nuneaton on 20th TS, Brandon on May 3rd BMCG and Baginton Airport on 15th PWC. The only autumn records involved single female/immature birds at Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) on October 30th PFA and in a Fenny Compton garden on November 14th JJB. Worcs A very good year began with an immature male singing on Walton Hill on March 24th-25th HK et al. Next to arrive were single female/immatures in Happy Valley on March 30th GJM, MWCW et al., in a Malvern Link garden later the same day RDH, and on Bredon Hill on April 4th AFJ; with a male in a Webheath garden on April 17th-18th NRCF. Autumn passage was less dramatic, with single immatures on North Hill from September 24th-October 5th SMW et al., West Malvern on November 14th WFP, and on the roof of a house at Cofton Hackett on December 3rd-4th REH et al. Staffs No records received. W Mid No proven breeding records this year, and with rather fewer records received than usual for the breeding season. The first spring records were of single female/immature birds at Bartley on March 29th MDJ and Sheepwash UP on April 2nd AGW. A singing male was heard in Curzon Street near central Birmingham on April 26th PAC, the only record received from the once favoured city centre area. A negative breeding return also came from the Albright and Wilson chemical works in Oldbury, although a male was seen there on June 7th AGW. The only autumn record was of a bird described as a first-winter male at Shirley Green on November 6th JM.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common though localised and much decreased summer resident, now restricted as a breeding bird to Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Average: April 10th (60) - September 25th (59) The first spring bird was at Lutley (West Mids) on April 8th, followed by a general arrival during 11th-15th. The last in autumn was seen at Fenny Compton on October 2nd. Warks In spring there was a male at Wormleighton Res and two males at Draycote on April 13th, with single males at both Brandon and Draycote on 14th, a female at Radway on 17th and a male at Kingsbury on 20th. A good autumn passage produced birds at: Meon Hill on August 17th, 21st and 26th (two); Napton Hill on August 25th and September 1st (two); Wormleighton Res on August 30th; Lighthorne Quarry on 31st; Fenny Compton Hills on September 14th and October 2nd; and Draycote on September 15th. Worcs Breeding season territories reported from: Bredon Hill, British Camp-The 120

Gullet (six, cf. four in 1995), Dowles Brook, Midsummer Hill (24), New Parks (four), Rock Coppice, Sapey Common, Stockton-on-Teme, Walton Hill and Witchbatch. Reported on passage at: Bishampton Vale, Bredon's Hardwick, Bretforton, Broadway, Castlemorton Common, Ipsley Alders, Kempsey Common, Upton Warren and Wilden. Staffs Breeding season records included 38 pairs at Coombes Valley (cf. 37 in 1995 and 32 in 1994) and seven singing males along the R.Dove from Swytham- ley-Back Forest. Most of the other records also referred to birds in the north of the county and on Cannock Chase. Away from these districts, autumn migrants appeared at Belvide, Blithfield, Byrkley Park, Croxall, Little Wyrley and Pendeford Mill NR. W Mid A much improved spring passage began with a bird at Lutley on April 8th, followed by singles at Bartley on 10th and on Netherton Hill on 12th, with a pair at Harborne NR on the same day. Further April records came from Fens Pools on 13th-14th, Sandwell Valley from 15th-17th, 19th, 20th (two), 22nd and 30th (two), and Saltwells Wood also on 20th. The last migrants appeared at Netherton Hill on May 4th, a Solihull garden on 13th and Fens Pools on 19th. Autumn passage began with one at Sheepwash UP from July 17th-19th, followed by later birds at: Fens Pools, on August 17th and from September 4th-8th (three); Fishley, on September 2nd, 7th and 9th; Pelsall North Common, on September 4th, 7th, 9th, 11th and 16th (three); Sandwell Valley, on August 25th and 30th-31st, followed by a superb ten on September 1st increasing to 11 on 6th, with singles on 12th and 20th-21st; Sheepwash UP, on August 25th-26th and September 2nd-3rd; and Woodgate Valley, on August 27th.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Frequent though declining summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Average: April 22nd (60) - October 6th (56) The first spring birds were noted at Hartshill SF and Upton Warren on April 16th, with the last at Castlemorton Common on October 5th. Warks A pair bred in the traditional area at BAD Kineton, and a male sang on territory at Fenny Compton from July 6th-8th in the same haymeadow as 1995. A good spring passage resulted in at least 32 being reported from 17 sites in the period April 16th-May 31st, with maxima of three at Shustoke on April 21st and four at Brandon on 22nd. Return passage involved at least 47 birds at just 11 sites, with maxima of three at Lighthorne Quarry on August 31st, nine at Bermuda on September 6th, five at Baginton on 7th and 22nd, and three at Fenny Compton on 30th. Worcs Spring passage commenced at Upton Warren with one on April 16th, followed by a run of mostly singles there totalling about ten birds until May 23rd. Elsewhere, there were singles at Strensham on April 21st and Abberton on 25th, two at both Lower Moor and Peopleton on May 4th; one at Bittell, three at Bredon Hill and one at Throckmorton on 6th; with three at Defford and one at Rous Lench on 12th. Autumn passage started with one at Throckmorton on August 18th, followed by five at Bredon Hill and two at Fairy Glen on Septem- 121

ber 1st, two at Abberton on 5th, three in a potato field at Elmbridge on 8th, one at Upton Warren on 11th and up to four at Castlemorton Common from 14th-October 5th. Staffs Breeding season pairs were noted at: Baldstones, Boarsgrove, Doxey, Fleet Green, Knotbury (two, with three young), the Roaches (two) and Swallow Moss. Spring passage was mainly confined to May, with records from 11 sites including totals of six at Crossplains and three at both Belvide and Drayton Bassett. Autumn records reported from just five sites, including up to three on many dates at Belvide and a total of seven at Crossplains. W Mid A good spring passage of at least 20 birds recorded from April 21 st-May 28th, with maxima of up to four in Sandwell Valley from April 22nd-30th and two at Bartley on 23rd-24th; and singles at Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Meriden GP, Sheepwash UP and Woodgate Valley. Autumn passage began with singles at Sheepwash UP on August 25th-26th and on Netherton Hill on 29th. Sandwell Valley then produced birds on 11 dates from August 31st-September 22nd, with a magnificent peak of 20 on September 6th. Other September records came from Clayhanger (max. three on 9th), Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Harborne NR, Pelsall North Common (two on 16th) and Woodgate Valley (max. two on 9th).

Stonechat Saxicola torquata Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor, and scarce breeder. . Records were generally down this year, particularly so during the autumn and early winter; presumably due to the effects of the cold winter. Warks Much scarcer, particularly in autumn and early winter. There were late winter records of two at Lea Marston on January 6th, up to three in the Dosthill area from 8th-18th, and one near Wellesbourne Airfield during January-February. Spring migrants appeared at: Brandon on February 25th-27th, and on March 10th and 27th; Bodymoor Heath on March 2nd, Draycote on 9th and 14th, at both Coton and llmington on 17th, Whatcote on 19th, and at Pleasance Farm (Kenilworth) on 23rd. An early juvenile at Lighthorne Quarry on September 11th, was followed by singles at Chesterton on October 16th, Baginton on 27th and Lea Marston on November 18th. Worcs In the Malvern area, a pair bred at one locality, with a second pair summering at another. A single bird was also found at a site in the south-east on June 9th. Away from the Malverns, one or two were seen in late winter/spring at Areley Kings, Ashmoor Common, Atch Lench, Def- ford (several on passage during April), ™ Stonechat (Brett Westwood) 122

Grimley, Jubilee Bridge, Kempsey, Lower Moor, Throckmorton, Upton Warren and Walton Hill (tlnee on March 24th). During the autumn, fnrihpr small numbers were reported from September onwards at: Bredon Hill, Bredon's Hardwick, Castlemorton Common (max. seven on September 16th), Happy Valley, Lower Moor, North Hill, Strensham, Upton Warren and Walton Hill. Staffs A pair bred in the Katyn Memorial area of Cannock Chase, rearing three young. A pair were also seen on the Roaches on April 16th, where breeding occurred in 1993, but there were no further records from that locality. Away from these areas, there were late winter/spring records from: Barton GP on January 14th and February 24th, Highgate Common on January 15th, Cold Norton on March 11th, Crossplains on 17th, Park Hall CP on 22nd, White- moor Hay on April 1st and Wilnecote on 27th. The Cannock Chase family party remained in Sherbrook Valley during the autumn and winter, but the only other records were of a pair at Belvide on September 14th and a male at Chasewater on December 15th. W Mid No breeding recorded from Sutton Park this year, where the only report was of a pair in Longmoor Valley on October 21st. Overwintering was noted at Sandwell Valley, where the pair from 1995 remained until January 24th; and Sheepwash UP, where three stayed until March 29th. Spring migrants were noted in March at Fens Pools on 2nd and 26th; Sandwell Valley on 4th and from 12th-18th; and on Netherton Hill from 10th-29th, with the last bird on Pelsall North Common on April 1st. Autumn records were sparse, with birds at Sandwell Valley on September 22nd, 30th (two) and November 2nd (two); Clayhanger on September 27th; and Sheepwash UP from October 20th to the end of the year.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Frequent though declining summer resident, now mainly on the northern moorlands. Fairly common and widespread on passage. Average: March 19th (59) - October 16th (60) An excellent spring passage began on March 14th, when Iwo were found at Ladbroke (Warks). The last in autumn were at Fenny Compton on October 23rd and Draycote until 24th. Warks Another good spring passage with records from 24 localities, including site maxima of three at Charlecote and four at Ufton Fields on March 24th, 16 at Baginton Airport and seven at Draycote on 27th, 14 at Poolfields on 31st-April 1st, nine at Bermuda on 2nd, with six at Lighthorne Quarry and three at Napton Res on 16th. Autumn passage birds at 14 sites, with maxima of seven at Meon Hill on August 26th and four there on October 5th, and four at Baginton on September 22nd. Worcs Bred at the usual site on the Malverns. A total of 180 individuals at 21 sites in spring. The strongest arrival was on March 24th with good numbers present until the end of the month, then relatively few through April, followed by a second peak at the beginning of May. The largest counts were seven at Holt on March 24th, seven at Upton Warren on 25th and 27th, seven at Bishamp- ton Vale on 26th and 14 on Bredon Hill on May 6th. Return passage was much less dramatic, just 27 birds at nine localities. The biggest counts were 123

three on Bredon Hill on August 12th and four at Defford on October 14th. Staffs Breeding was proved or suspected at: Calton Moor/Stanton Dale area (three pairs with three juveniles), Hazelbarrow, Knotbury (ten adults and seven juveniles), Morridge, the Roaches and the Weaver Hills. Spring passage was seen at a further nine sites, with maxima of 11 at Crossplains and seven at Belvide on March 26th, 16 at Blithfield and three at Doxey on 27th, five at Swinton on 28th and 12 at Hazelbarrow on April 1st. On return passage, birds were noted at Belvide, Blithfield, Fradley Airfield and Westport, with a peak of four at Crossplains on September 24th. W Mid Another excellent spring passage, with birds reported from 16 sites during the period March 15th-May 19th. The best sequences came from Netherton Hill (seven dates, max. three on April 17th), DunstallA/alley Parks (14 dates, max. 13 on March 27th and ten on April 20th), Fens Pools (nine dates, including five on March 25th, 20 on 26th, six on 27th and six again on April 20th), Sand- well Valley (35 dates, max. 27 on April 16th and 15 on 29th) and Sheepwash UP (12 dates, max. eight on March 27th). Other counts included three at Stubber's Green on March 25th, with five at Clayhanger and four at Goscote Valley on 27th. A typically much lighter autumn passage, with records from August 3rd-October 10th at: Aldridge, Bartley, Berkswell GP, Dunstall Park (five dates, max. two on August 16th and September 5th), Sandwell Valley (seven dates, max. six on September 9th), Sheepwash UP, Wiggins Hill and Woodgate Valley.

Greenland Wheatear O. o. leucorrhoa Rare, though probably overlooked, passage migrant (8/10). Warks A male at Dosthill on April 21st KW and a female at Shustoke on May 4th BLK. Worcs Six of the party on Bredon Hill on May 6th SMW were considered to be of this race.

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti Very rare vagrant (0/10). One of the many highlights of 1996, this bird from the deserts of North Africa and Asia must have found the barren sand and gravel habitat of Barton reassuringly familiar in an otherwise alien landscape! The first Regional record and one of four to have

arrived in Britain during -4 November-December. It was perhaps only the fourth ever record well inland, mirror- ing the last one in Herefordshire in November 1994. Desert Wheatear (Phil Jones) 124

Staffs A well-watched first-winter male stayed at Barton GP from November 23rd- 30th ESC, GMH et al.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus An uncommon and declining summer resident to the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Average: March 30th (40) - October 24th (34) The three over-wintering birds were exceptional, although not without prece- dence as a male was present in Kidderminster in January-February 1990. These were part of a national influx which peaked at over 20 individuals in January alone, and coincided with the arrival of huge numbers of winter thrushes. Extreme dates of passage migrants were March 23rd at Walton Hill and November 16th at Hanbury (Staffs). Warks Exceptionally, two wintering birds were present in the county early in the year, both probably having arrived with the large Fieldfare influx late in December 1995. A first-winter male visited Kenilworth gardens from this time (see below) up to January 12th PWC and another very elusive male was seen on fields in the Corley area on dates from January 24th up to April 6th per SMH. After a single spring bird at Charlecote on March 24th, which consorted with Northern Wheatears and many winter thrushes, there were two further autumn ones. A juvenile was ringed in a garden at Wolverton on October 20th and a male was seen at Wormleighton Res on 25th, the latter appearing with a large influx of thrushes. Worcs The most unexpected report of the year was of a wintering male at Birlingham on January 24th MHk. Spring passage commenced with a male on Walton Hill on March 23rd, and it was this site which got the lion's share, with further males on March 26th, 30th-31st, April 1st-4th (two), and a female on 14th. A pair were at Bredon Hill on March 26th, whilst the Malverns could only manage one on North Hill on 30th and two on Table Hill on 31st. The only lowland record was a male at Cookley on April 13th. By contrast autumn passage was mainly confined to the Malverns, with singles in Happy Valley on October 4th and 10th, followed by five on 13th and one on 19th. On 23rd there was one on Worcs Beacon and two on North Hill, with up to five at the latter from 24th-26th and one on November 9th. Walton Hill had a single bird on October 5th. Staffs Bred successfully in the Knotbury/Orchard Farm area, where live adults were seen on April 26th and a nest with young was found by Firestone Brook on June 16th. Also probably bred on the moors at Baldstones, Hazelbarrow, the Roaches and Three Shires Head (two pairs). A male at Swallow Moss on April 8th was presumably on passage, as were birds in the lowlands at Blithfield on March 29th (a male on the dam), Belvide on April 7th and Park Hall CP (two) on 9th. A late autumn migrant was at Hanbury on November 16th. W Mid An unprecedented spring passage occurred at Fens Pools, with birds on March 24th (two), 25th (four), 26th (three), April 2nd, 3rd-9th (two), 13th (three) and 14th. At least two were also present on Barrow Hill during April, with singles at Park Lime Pits on March 24th, Sandwell Valley on April 7th and on the barley fields in Valley Park on 20th. The sole autumn record involved 125

up to three birds around the Newtown area of Sheepwash UP on October 6th. 1995 Addendum Warks The above wintering male at Kenilworth was first seen on December 29th per PWC.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Widespread declines noted following the hard winter. Warks Noticeably reduced at BAD Kineton where the summer count produced 67; well down from the 118 of 1995 and around 25% less than the average. Around 12 pairs bred at Alvecote, which appears to be about average. The largest counts were at Wormleighton Res, where there were small influxes of 40 on October 25th and 35 on December 12th, at Napton Hill with 25 migrants on October 31st and at Brandon where 40 were seen going to roost on November 20th. Worcs All census plots reported a drop in the breeding population. At Alfrick 24 pairs was only slightly down on the 26 of the previous year, but North Piddle had a remarkable decrease to eight pairs (cf. 17 in 1995). Shortwood Roughs contained five pairs (cf. six in 1995), Southcrest had 17 pairs (cf. 27 in 1995), and at Webheath there were 18 pairs (cf. 25 in 1994). Other counts of singing males included 19 on Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, and only 13 at Old Hills Common (cf. 24 in 1995). As usual there were few reports from outside the breeding season, the only significant flock being 30 at Tibberton on January 13th. Staffs Coombes Valley recorded an increase in breeding pairs to 52 (cf. 43 in 1994- 5). Monthly counts on Highgate Common produced a peak of only eight in April, compared with 11 in 1995 suggesting a slight decline. A fall of 80 was recorded at Crossplains in mid-November. W Mid CBC plot data produced 35 territories on Mons Hill (cf.- 44 in 1995) and 15 at Park Lime Pits. A male was in full song on top of the Copthorne Hotel in Birmingham city centre on January 12th. Winter counts included 11 along 200m of hedgerow in Wergs (Wolverhampton) on January 24th and 20 in the paddocks area of Sandwell Valley on February 20th, with large numbers throughout the Valley on November 11th and 21st. An albino male was in the Compton area of Valley Park on January 4th and February 26th.

Dark-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis atroguiaris Very rare vagrant (0/10). One of an unprecedented four in Britain during the early months of 1996, apparently arriving with a large weather influx of the two common winter thrushes. This was the second vcf:/MW^ Dark-throated Thrush Regional record of this central Asian (Phil Jones) 126

rarity, the first being of a first-winter male trapped in a thrush roost in north Staffs in November 1978. Both records involved birds of the northern black- throated race atrogularis, known colloquially as Black-throated Thrush, which is the usual race to occur in Britain. Worcs An immature male which frequented gardens and adjoining paddocks in Webheath, Redditch from January 17th-February 18th PLA, MJI, GHPetai, drew big crowds during its stay. This was the first county record.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs Moors 1974- 77, 1980 and 1985. Average: September 30th (61)- May 2nd (60) A vast coldweather influx beginning in December 1995 carried on during the early months, with many small flocks visiting suburban gardens during this period. In April there was a mass exodus around the 8th-10th, but flocks continued to be seen in many areas until the third week, with the last stragglers reported from Kenilworth on May 8th and Bredon Hill on 9th. After an early bird at Packington on September 20th there were no more in autumn until October 6th, with only a trickle thereafter until the main influx began on 22nd. Warks A huge coldweather influx which began in December 1995 affected the whole county during the early months, but with the largest numbers recorded in the south-east. In this district the largest flock was at Fenny Compton which built up to a peak of over 3000 on February 16th, before declining during March only to increase to a secondary peak of 2500 on April 1st, with 1300 still on 8th. Many other flocks of up to 500 were seen in this part of the county, including maxima of 700 at Wormleighton Res on January 17th, 2000 at Brailes on February 10th, 800 at Knightcote on March 16th, 1000 at Priors Hardwick on 23rd, 850 at Chesterton on 31st and 700 at Chapel Ascote on April 8th. Elsewhere in the county the largest flocks were of 1000 at Shut- tington on January 7th, 600 at Baddesley Common on 28th, 1000 in the Kingsbury area on February 3rd, 700 at Shrewley on 11th, 700 at Welcombe Hills on 14th, 420 at Draycote on 16th and 1000 at Charlecote on March 24th. The first large influx of the autumn involved 570 at Wormleighton Res on October 25th and again the largest flocks were present in Ihe south-east where it was very abundant. Up to 1000 were present at Fenny Compton during the final two months, with other maxima of 770 at Chapel Ascote on November 25th, 1400 at Chesterton on December 4th, 1000 at Napton Res on 18th and 1000 at Wormleighton Res on 23rd. Several further sites recorded flocks of up to 500 in the south and east of the county, while 250 was the largest in the north. Worcs Well reported in late winter, with many records of large flocks submitted and numbers seeming to build to a peak in late February and early March. The largest were of 700 at Upton-upon-Severn on January 9th, 550 at Castle- morton Common on 14th, 600 at Bishampton Vale GC and 1100 at Oddingley on February 11th, 1000 at Goosehill Wood on 18th, 1390 near Defford on 19th, 2000 at Bredon's Hardwick on March 3rd, 1000 at Strensham on 14th and 600 at Crowle on April 5th. Far fewer were present in autumn; although 127

some passage was noted, eg. 153 flying west over Happy Valley on October 23rd. After that there were a few reports of fairly modest accumulations, the largest being 700 on Bredon Hill on November 2nd, 250 at Throckmorton on 9th, 300 at Tibberton and 400 at Upton Warren on 17th, and 700 at Bredon's Hardwick on December 8th. Staffs An intriguing report referred to a bird watched carrying food to a nest at the bottom of a garden in the Belvide area during May. A huge influx during the early months resulted in many flocks of up to 500 appearing in the county, with the largest ones comprising 3000 at Croxall on January 14th, 1000 at Calton Moor on February 27th, 1000 at both Denstone on March 131h and Stanton Dale on 21st, with 2350 moving east-north-east over Crossplains and 1000 at Belvide on 24th. The largest autumn and early winter counts were of 400 flying west over Belvide on November 1st, 500 at Chasewater on 9th, 400 at both Little Wyrley on 16th and during a snowfall at Kidsgrove on 24th, and 500 passing through Blithfield on 30th. W Mid Far more than usual were present during the early months, with maxima of 600 on Netherton Hill and an impressive 1000 at Park Lime Pits on January 10th, a site record count of 300 at Fens Pools and 200 roosting in Sutton Park on February 3rd, 120 at Branton Hill and 300 on Aldridge GC on 14th, with up to 300 in Valley Park during the same month. In March, 1500 moved north- east (presumably to roost) over Barr Beacon during a two hour period in the late afternoon of 17th, whilst 300 were in Sandwell Valley on 26th. The largest autumn and early winter flocks consisted of 100 on Netherton Hill and 500 at Park Lime Pits on November 8th, 170 in Sandwell Valley on 9th and 100 in Woodgate Valley on December 4th.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined though still very common resident. Also passage migrant and winter visitor. Remarkably the cold winter appeared to have less effect on this species than the generally more hardy Blackbird. Perhaps most of our breeding Song Thrushes managed to emigrate in time? Warks A drop to 19 was recorded on the BAD Kineton summer count after three good years with counts of 32-35; however this was near average. Continued or increased scarcity reported from several areas in northern and central districts, but numbers were thought to be generally stable or only very slightly down in the south-east. The largest counts involved an influx of 30 at Wormleighton Res on October 25th and 25 roosting at Brandon on November 20th. Worcs Conflicting fortunes reported from the county's breeding survey sites. Alfrick had a record year, with five singing males (two more than in 1995). Elsewhere the species held its own or declined slightly: one pair at North Piddle (cf. two in 1995), two pairs at Southcrest (as in 1995) and two pairs at Webheath (cf. three in 1995). Breeding season reports came from a further 11 localities, with the best concentrations of pairs being six at Bittell, five at Castlemorton Common (cf. six in 1995, but 35 in 1994), 11 at Midsummer Hill and four at Tibberton. Small numbers of migrants (up to ten) were in Happy Valley during October. 128

Staffs Eleven pairs bred in the Chumet Woodlands and two at Westport. Few other records submitted, the largest counts being of only five at Bclvidc on Feb- ruary 3rd and six at Westport on April 8th. W Mid Observers have begun to send in more records, with singing males reported from 24 localities (cf. 14 in 1995). Four territories at both Mons Hill and Park Lime Pits were one up on last year at both sites, while three-four pairs bred at Harborne NR. A small but definite increase was also reported from Stour- bridge. More records and comparative data will help build up a reasonable picture of this species' status in the county.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Average: September26th (62)-April 17th (61) A big influx during the hardweather of late winter, though not on so large a scale as Fieldfare. Like that species small numbers continued to be reported in several areas until the third week in April, with the last bird at Upton Warren on May 5th. The first autumn migrant appeared at Byrkley Park (Staffs) on September 25th, with a trickle of migrants daily from October 1 st and the first main arrival on 11th. Warks Unusually abundant throughout the county during the cold early months, with maxima of 300 at Ladywalk on January 1 st, 750 at Lighthorne Quarry on 5th, 500 in the Kingsbury area on 6th, 300 at both Priors Hardwick and Shut- tington on 7th, 300 at Chesterton on 12th, 600 at Wormleighton Res on 17th, 400 at Whittleford CP on 26th, 1000 feeding on berries along the A444 at Bedworth on February 5th, 1000 at Brailes on 10th, 4-500 near Shrewley on 11th, 400 at Welcombe Hills on 14th, 1500 at Fenny Compton on 16th and 3-500 at Earlswood on April 2nd. Generally small numbers were present from the beginning of October, with the first real influxes of 110 on 11th and 400 on 25th at Wormleighton Res. Later maxima included 150 at Harbury on Novem- ber 10th, 160 at Chapel Ascote on 25th, 700 at Wormleighton Res on 26th, 200 at Shustoke on December 10th, 500 at Fenny Compton on 11th and 200 at Newbold Comyn on 24th. Worcs A solid winter showing. The largest congregations were 750 at Castlemorton Common on January 7th, 500 at Tibberton on 9th, 1200 at Bredon's Hardwick and 300 at Webheath on February 11th and an exceptional 5072 near Defford on March 19th. Fewer reported in autumn, but two major flocks were counted; 1000 at Upton Warren on November 17th and 750-1000 at Castlemorton Common on December 1st. Staffs During the early months flocks of around 1 -200 were fairly widespread, with records of such from Berryhill, Blithfield, Coombes Valley, Croxall, May Bank (Newcastle), Swallow Moss, Tittesworth and Whitemoor Hay, with a maximum of 300 at Belvide on March 25th. Autumn and early winter maxima included 80 at Westport on October 12th, 100 at Byrkley Park on November 16th, 200 at Hollybush on 17th and 200 at Croxall on December 24th. W Mid Some impressive counts during the early months, including maxima of 300 in Sandwell Valley on January 8th, 1000 at Park Lime Pits on 9th, 200 at Wood- This Hoopoe was a nice find at Wilienhail in the Black Country in April (Phill Ward).

Shore Lark at Chasewater, one of an unprecedented autumn influx. December (Phill Ward). Desert Wheatear at Barton GP in November. One of the highlights of 1996 (lain Leach).

Dark-throated Thrush of the black-throated race in Webheath, Redditch. The second Regional record. January (Neil Stych). 129

shires Green on 13th, 800 in the Netherton Hill area on 28th, 900 in Valley Park on February 1st, 2000 at Fens Pools and 500 roosting in Sutton Park on 3rd, and 200 at Branton Hill on March 5th. Many appeared in suburban areas during the cold weather including up to 70 in an Acocks Green garden during early February, while later that month a bird with aberrant creamy-yellow plumage was seen in Bournville. The first autumn influx consisted of 100 in Sandwell Valley on October 11th, but otherwise numbers were rather low until December when there was maxima of 45 on pasture in the Coundon Wedge on 3rd, 60 in Woodgate Valley on 4th, 100 at Wyken Slough on 10th and 50 in Dunstall Park on 17th.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Warks The few breeding season records point to a stable population. The largest post-breeding flocks were of 40 at BAD Kineton on August 13th, 20 at Light- home Quarry on 16th, 22 at Radway on 31st and 29 at Fenny Compton on September 1 st. Worcs The small number of breeding season records all relate to one-two pairs, with no suggestion that the population is anything other than stable. Most records of small parties referred to the post-breeding period, with the largest of these being 19 at Oakley on August 11th, 29 at Lower Moor on 24th, 13 on Bredon Hill on September 1st and 33 at Kyre Green on 3rd. Staffs Breeding pairs reported only from Brand Hill, Coombes Valley (three, a further decline from six in 1995 and seven in 1994), and Westport (three). The largest post-breeding flocks were 11 at Wombourne on July 18th, 30 at Little Wyrley on August 12th, 20 at Gib Torr on 21st, 20 flying south-west over Westport on 26th, and 15 at Newcastle on September 9th. W Mid Fewer records received this year, with only 16 sites mentioned. On the CBC plots, there were two territories on Mons Hill and one at Park Lime Pits, while three-four pairs bred at Harbome NR. A nest in London Road Cemetery in Coventry was the only other one reported. Small post-breeding flocks began assembling from June, with the largest of these totalling 30 in Dunstall Park on August 12th and 20 in Sandwell Valley on 24th. 'Large numbers' were also reported from Sandwell Valley on November 11th, coinciding with an influx of other thrushes.

Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Our small population successfully survived the cold winter with no signs of any diminution. Warks Two pairs may have bred at Brandon, where three males were singing on territory in April BMCG. The male at Ladywalk found in November 1995 remained until at least January 14th, while a pair were present there on April 5th-6th but not subsequently SLC, SMH et al. Worcs The original pair bred again at Upton Warren and were present all year, with a first-winter male also present on March 17th and 23rd. Three or four juveniles were seen in late summer FH, AW et al. 130

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia rrcqucnt aummcr resident and paccago migrant Average: April 17th (60) - August 26th (50) First at Belvide on April 11th, with the main influx beginning a week later. The last were seen at Bittell on September 6th and Ford Green on 7th. Warks Reeling males heard in spring and summer at: BAD Kineton (only one, cf. a peak of 11 here in 1990), Bowshot Wood, Brailes, Brandon (four), Compton Verney, Dosthill, Draycote, Earlswood, Fenny Compton, Kingsbury, Light- horne Quarry, Middleton and Whatcote. Worcs A slightly better year. Bred at Bittell, Castlemorton Common, Feckenham and Upton Warren, with birds during the breeding season also at Abberton, Bis- hampton, Croome Park, Diglis, Martteji-and Throckmorton. Spring migrants were further noted at Lower Moor, Rushock, Shorthorn Wood and Timber- honger. Staffs Two pairs bred at Doxey, with probable breeding noted at Belvide (two-three territories), Branston GP and Ford Green. Reeling males were also noted during spring and summer at: Ansons Bank (two), Barton GP, Betley Mere, Blithfield, Coombes Valley, Knotbury, Pool Dam Marsh (Newcastle), Rudyard, Seighford, Swallow Moss and Tittesworth. W Mid Probable breeding was recorded at Bartley, Park Lime Pits (two pairs), Stoke Floods and Whitley, with two singing males at the latter site in July. A decline was noted in Sandwell Valley, with a single singing male heard on just three dates during April 21st-May 12th. In Valley Park, two were in the Turner's Fields area on April 25th, whilst a bird singing nearby at Compton throughout July and August is indicative of possible breeding. One was heard singing in Woodgate Valley on April 28th, with three heard there on May 5th and one on 6th.

River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis Very rare vagrant (0/10). Another Regional first, this bird breeds across central Eurasia from Germany eastwards to western Siberia. Only twenty years ago it was a major rarity in Britain but now appears annually, coinciding with a gradual westward range expansion into Europe. It now breeds regularly in Sweden, with sporadic records of definite or suspected breeding further west in Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands and Switzerland. Staffs A singing male was present at Doxey Marshes from June 20th-July 22nd AB et al. This very popular bird River Warbler (Phil Jones) 131

carried a ring and may just possibly have been the bird present at Pennington Flash (Greater Manchester) in 1995. For a full account see Short Notes.

Sedge Warbler Anrnr.ephalus snhnennhaenus Common summer resident. Average: April 15th (60) - September 28th (54) A very early bird at Upton Warren on March 30lh was the earliest on record by two days. The main arrival was from mid-April, while it was last observed at Wormleighton Res on September 20th. Warks Singing males reported from: Alvecote (seven), BAD Kineton (four, only a third of the average number), Baginton (numerous along R.Avon where numbers thought to have increased), Bidford-Marlcliff (14 along R.Avon), Bishop's Bowl, Brandon (12), Bubbenhall, Chesterton (three), Compton Verney (two), Dosthill, Draycote (five), Eathorpe, Farnborough, Kineton village, Kingsbury, Ladywalk (20 on April 28th), Lighthorne Pools, Napton Res, Offchurch, Priors Marston (two), Radway, Shipston-on-Stour, Shuck- burgh, Stoneton (three), Welford-on-Avon, Whitacre Heath (two) and Worm- leighton Res (two). Worcs Breeding season reports from: Abberton, Aston Mill, Bittell, Bredon's Hard- wick, Bredon's Norton, Eckington, Feckenham, Grimley, Lower Moor (eight singing on May 12th), Oakley, Rous Lench, Strensham (five pairs), Upton Warren, Westwood and Wilden. Noted on spring passage at Kinsham, Larford and Marsh Common. There was a huge 'fall' at Upton Warren on April 21st, when 60 birds were present of which over half were trapped. The only out of place autumn bird was one along the Worcester Canal near Tibberton on August 19th. Staffs Territory holding males reported from: Belvide (34 on April 30th, with many pairs breeding), Branston (several along Trent and Mersey Canal), R.Dove (two pairs bred), Doxey Marshes, Ford Green (three), Tittesworth (three pairs bred, cf. five in 1995) and Westport (eight singing on May 12th but only one pair subsequently breeding). At Betley Mere CES, 22 adults and 13 juveniles were trapped (cf. 20 and nine respectively in 1995), showing a reverse to the recent downward trend there. W Mid Confirmed breeding at Compton in Valley Park; with probable breeding territories at: Bradnock's Marsh (seven on May 12th may have included migrants), Sandwell Valley (max. ten on May 13th, with probably seven subsequent territories), Stoke Floods (three) and Wyken Slough. Sheepwash UP had five singing males on May 12th, but for the third year running there was no subsequent breeding. Passage birds were also noted during April-May at: Bartley, Cinder Bank, Fens Pools (up to four), Netherton Hill and Netherton Res. Later migrants were noted at Berkswell GP in June, Fens Pools on July 6th and on Netherton Hill on August 22nd-23rd.

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris Scarce and declining summer resident, now only in south Worcs. Average: May 27th (46) - July 8th (3) Worcs Once again the situation looked bleak. Up to two males (cf. four in 1995) sang 132

at one site in the lower Avon Valley from May 23rd-July 7th JRH et al., but with no indication that either attracted a mate. Staffs A singing male was at Doxey from June 21 st-24th at least MDB, GJM et al. This appears to be the first county record since 1953, when breeding also last occurred.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Average: April 23rd (56) - September 26th (50) The first in spring was at Brandon on April 16th, with the main arrival during the last week. The last autumn migrant was seen at Sheepwash UP on Oclober 1 st. Warks Breeding territories at: Alvecote (five), Bidford-Marlcliff (seven along R.Avon), Compton Verney, Coton, Coughton Court (two), Kingsbury WP (four, including two in oilseed rape), Ladywalk (eight), Lower Radbourn (six), Napton Res, Newfield Pool (two), Offchurch (three), Packington Great Pool (two), Ryton- on-Dunsmore GP (ten) and Wormleighton Res (four). No data from the important Brandon and Coombe colonies, but generally it was a poor year with most counts down on 1995. On passage a few migrants were noted at . Chesterton, Draycote and Lighthorne Heath. Worcs Breeding season reports from: Ashmoor Common, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Bredon's Norton, Church Lench, Droitwich Canal (12 pairs in vicinity of Porter's Mill), Eckington, Feckenham, Grimley, Hindlip, Kinsham, Larford, Lodge Park, Lower Moor, Oakley, Strensham, Upton Warren, Westwood and the Worcester Canal (11 pairs from Shernal Green-Hanbury Wharf and six pairs from Tlbberton-Oddingley). Staffs Breeding pairs reported only from Belvide (two-three, cf. nine in 1995), Branston WP (five), Copmere (three), Doxey (12) and Westport (two, with an adult carrying food to a second brood on September 7th). Betley Mere CES recorded a catch of 58 adults and 89 juveniles, the latter being well-up on last year; though apparently habitat changes make comparisons with 1995 difficult. Passage migrants were noted in a hedgerow beside Blithfield sailing club on August 17th, beside the R.Dove on 26th and in Byrkley Park on September 11th. WMid Breeding was noted in Sandwell Valley (three pairs) and at Sheepwash UP (five singing males in July, with birds beginning to spread away from the core area), with singing males present during the breeding season at Meriden GP and Minworth SF. Passage migrants occurred at Dunstall Park on April 17th, Bradnock's Marsh on May 12th and Fens Pools on May 18th, July 6th-7th and September 7th (two). An unusual record concerned a bird which sang for two days in June from a small patch of scrub along Suffolk Street Queensway in central Birmingham.

Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta Very rare vagrant (0/10). A widespread warbler of south-west Europe and North Africa, this colourful songster breeds as near to Britain as the north coast of France, with recent 133

eastward range extensions into Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. It bred for the first time in the Netherlands in 1990.This bird, which is mainly an autumn migrant to south-west Britain, coincided with an unprecedented May arrival on the south coast, which peaked around 19th-22nd. The few previous inland records have been mainly in southern counties. Staffs A bird seen in Newcastle-under-Lyne on May 20th WJL was the first county and Regional record.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Average: April 21st (60) - September 20th (60) First seen at Dunstall Park on April 17th, with a major arrival in most areas on 24th. The latest record was at Wormleighton Res on September 27th. Warks A much better year, with breeding season territories reported from 30 localities, including six at Fenny Compton and in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area, with three at Draycote, Priors Hardwick and Wormleighton Res. Breeding records came from Dosthill, Fenny Compton, Norton Lindsey, Shipston-on-Stour, Stoneton and Wormleighton Res. That this increase was real was backed up by census data from BAD Kineton, where 20 birds were counted (cf. eight in 1995), the best figure there since 1987 when there were 30 and about twice the average. Marked autumn passage was noted at Wormleighton Res with up to ten during late August (max. 12 on 30th) and early September. Worcs Reported from 41 localities in the breeding season. The records were fairly widespread, although only two were from localities north of Bromsgrove and Stourport. Most reports involved up to three singing males, but there were six pairs at North Piddle (cf. five in 1995) and five singing males at Upton Warren on May 5th. Noted on spring passage at three further sites. Staffs Pairs bred at Belvide, Coombes Valley (two) and Westport, and probably at Little Stoke (Stone). Further singing males at: Crumpwood, Doxey (two), Foxt, Haughton, Newcastle-under-Lyne, Prestwood, Stanton and Wheaton Aston. Noted on autumn passage at four additional sites, including six at Blithfield on September 1st. W Mid The only breeding record this year came from Netherton Res, though noted in a further 12 localities during the season. The largest concentrations of singing males included seven in Sandwell Valley, five at Bradnock's Marsh, four in Woodgate Valley and two-three each at Berkswell GP, DunstallA/alley Parks, Fens Pools, Harborne NR, Marston Green and Park Lime Pits. Several of these counts were in May and probably included some passage birds, particularly around the 12th when a notable influx occurred. Passage birds were also reported from a further four sites, with an autumn peak of only three at Sheepwash UP on September 8th.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common summer resident. Average: April 14th (62) - September 26th (62) Again appeared early, with the first in Sandwell Valley on April 1st and the main influx from 20th. Birds remained later in the autumn than usual with 134

regular records up to October 2nd, when a bird was last seen at Fenny Compton. Later stragglers then appeared at Little Wyrley on October 31 si and at Lower Smite (Worcs) from November 21st-28th. There have only been two previous Regional records for this month, on 7th in 1992 and on 18th in 1989. Warks Numbers possibly slightly down this year in some areas eg. 44 on the BAD Kineton summer count (cf. 50 in 1995) and seven singing along the R.Avon from Bidford-Marlcliff (cf.13 in 1995), but in most districts numbers remain high. A total of 46 territories were located in the 941 hectares of Fenny Compton parish, while there were numerous reports of up to six pairs. Eight pairs bred around Wormleighton Res, while in May there were counts of 15 singing males at both Brandon and Ladywalk, with 12 at Draycote. Autumn passage at Wormleighton Res peaked at over 20 on August 30th. Worcs Results from the Malverns, North Piddle and Webheath suggest that the strong showing made in 1995 was sustained this year. Noted at 56 sites in the breeding season, with the best territory counts being 14 (cf. ten in 1995) from British Camp-The Gullet on the Malvern Hills, 15 on Castlemorton Common, eight at Lower Moor, 11 at North Piddle, 23 on Old Hills Common, seven at Throckmorton and up to ten at Upton Warren. In addition, 15 (including some juveniles) were at Stoke Works on July 5th. An exceptionally late bird fed on berries in the garden of the Worcs Wildlife Trust headquarters at Lower Smite from November 21 st-28th JRH. Staffs Breeding pairs noted at Churnet Woodlands (four), Coombes Valley (five), Doxey, Little Wyrley, Tittesworth and Westport (five). Singing males were reported from a further 15 localities around the county, with increases noted at Brocton Coppice (Cannock Chase) and in the Little Aston/Footherley/ Shenstone area, where there were 12 territories. W Mid Breeding season records came from 32 localities, with most areas showing similar or increased counts over 1995. Many sites recorded up to four territories, while larger concentrations included between nine and 15 (cf. six in 1995) at Netherton Hill, nine (as last year) at Park Lime Pits CBC, 20 at Sheepwash UP (cf. six in 1995) and 17 in Woodgate Valley. Birds were reported to be numerous in Sandwell Valley. Three pairs bred in an area at Streetly where as recently as 1993 birds were absent, while singing males were located as near to Birmingham city centre as Aston and Deersleap Wood in north Edgbaston. Passage birds were noted at several other localities, while in Sandwell Valley 15 were counted on September 6th.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Common summer resident. Average: April 21st (59) - September 11th (58) First seen at Brandon on April 20th and Lower Moor on 21st, with most appearing from 30th onwards. Very few autumn records were later than the first week in September, the latest being singles at both Tittesworth and Fens Pools on 22nd. Warks Breeding season reports came from 25 sites, with the largest territory counts 135

of seven at The Somers, six at Kingsbury, five at Draycote and Ladywalk, four at Hay Wood and Ufton Fields, and three at Wormleighton Res. Only five were logged on the BAD Kineton summer count (cf. 32 in 1995) which was only a third of the average figure but there was no evidence of a decline from elsewhere. Worcs Breeding season reports from 46 sites around the county. In most cases fewer than three pairs were involved, but there were five at Atch Lench, nine from British Camp-The Gullet, three at Callow Hill, Dowles Brook, and Martley, ten at Midsummer Hill, four at North Hill and 11 on Old Hills Common. Noted on passage at six additional sites. Staffs The main breeding concentrations reported were of 16 pairs in Churnet Woodlands and 22 (cf. 19 in 1995) in Coombes Valley. Only reported from a further 13 sites during the breeding season, with the best territory counts being four at Belvide (cf. two in 1995) and Westport, and three at Aqualate, Elford GP, Highgate Common (cf. five in 1995), Pendeford Mill NR and Seven Springs (Cannock Chase). W Mid Breeding season territories reported from: Harborne NR (a pair bred for the first time), Meriden GP, Minworth SF, Mons Hill CBC (two), Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits (two, including probably the first breeding record for the area), Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park. Passage birds were reported from a further nine localities, including a singing male on an allotment in suburban Coundon (Coventry) on May 1st. Fens Pools recorded up to two migrants in May and early June, with at least five in early September.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. A record number of overwintering birds reported during the early months, with probably at least 210 involved. Part of this increase may have been due to the severity of the weather driving birds into observers' gardens. Warks The best territory counts were of ten at Brandon, six at Earlswood Lakes, eight in Itchington Holt, and five at both Ufton Fields and Whichford Wood. Counts were down on last year at several further sites, including BAD Kineton where 19 was the lowest count since they began in 1987 (cf. 29 in 1995, which is about average). The best autumn passage counts were of nine at Fenny Compton Hills on September 1st and eight at Meon Hill on 7th. Continuing over from 1995, late winter records were unusually numerous and came from: Alcester, Alvecote, Avon Dassett (two), BAD Kineton (two), Bidford-on-Avon, Bishops Itchington, Brandon, Coleshill, Compton Verney (two), Fenny Compton (two), Kineton village (two), Ladywalk, Leamington Spa (two), Lillington, Polesworth (two), Priors Marston, Radway, Rugby (at least four in area), Southam (three), Stockton (two), Stratford-upon-Avon (two), Wellesbourne (up to a possible nine in area!), Whitacre Heath, Wilm- cote (two) and Wolverton (five). At the end of the year birds were only reported from Fenny Compton, Kineton (two) and Polesworth, all during December. Worcs Breeding season census results revealed a stable situation. Four pairs at Alfrick was the same as in 1995, but ten pairs on the Malverns between 136

British Camp and The Gullet was an increase over seven in 1995. Four pairs at North Piddle and two at Webheath were both one more than in 199b, while five pairs at Southcrest was one fewer. In total it was reported from 49 sites in the breeding season, the largest territory concentrations being nine at Atch Lench, ten at Marsh Common and 15 at Midsummer Hill, Tiddesley Wood and Old Hills Common. A deluge of late winter records, with at least 91 birds at 43 localities from the beginning of the year up to early April. The largest counts were of five in Bewdley on January 30th and eight at Malvern Link from January 1 st-April 11th. The first reports from the second winter period did not occur until early December, but by the end of the year a further 21 had been seen at 13 places. Staffs Breeding season records from many areas, with the largest concentrations of singing males coming from: Churnet Woodlands (24), Coombes Valley (19, cf. 15 in 1995 and 11 in 1994), Belvide (ten), Copmere and Westport (six at both), and Highgate Common (lour). Winter records (mostly during February/March) came from gardens in Alrewas, Biddulph, Bucknall, Clay- ton, Hockley (Tamworth), Leek, Little Haywood, Loggerheads, Newcastle- under-Lyne (four) and Stafford, with further records from Branston WP and Chasewater. W Mid Breeding season territories reported from just 13 sites, with the best counts at Mons Hill CBC (nine, cf. ten in 1995, 12 in 1994), Park Lime Pits CBC (five), Sheepwash UP (four) and Woodgate Valley (six). Passage birds were reported from a further six sites, including one in urban Digbeth, Birmingham. Late winter records were relatively numerous with reports from at least 27 areas, including up to six in Shirley, four at Balsall Common and Four Oaks, with three at Bournville, Dorridge, Netherton Res, Streetly and Valley Park. By contrast it was much scarcer later in the year, with early winter records from only Balsall Common, Barston Ford, Dorridge, Fens Pools, Netherton Res and the Norton Lane area of Earlswood. Invariably winter records come mainly from gardens, often involving pairs, and with a distinct peak of records in late March.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Very rare vagrant (3/10) The fourth Regional record of this attractive Siberian gem but the first to remain for more than a day, this bird was well-watched during its stay as it consorted with a wandering party of titmice. The first two records (1986 and 1993) both came from Worcs in October, while the third was at Westport, Staffs in December 1994. The latter may have been of the newly promoted species Hume's Yellow-browed (or Leaf) Warbler P. humei, but until the record is considered by BBRC it will be retained under the present species. Warks A juvenile well-watched around the churchyard at Napton Hill from September 22nd-26th SMH et al. was the first for the county.

Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus Very rare vagrant (0/10). One of the most tremendous and unexpected finds of the year and one that 137

few would have predicted, let alone on a piece of restored ex-industrial land in the heart of the Black Country! A Regional first, this rather drab-coloured warbler is mainly confined to the Eastern Palaearctic, breeding across central and eastern Siberia and wintering in the Indian subcontinent, south China and south-east Asia. However it is a great wanderer, and since the mid-1970's has increased markedly as a vagrant to the British Isles reaching a peak of 21 in 1994. Most records still tend to be on the east coast and in Scilly, and this bird was the first to be found well inland. W Mid One remained at Sheepwash UP from November 16th-18th AGWetal., and although typically skulking was seen by many people. For an account of this bird see Short Notes.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent though declining summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the Region. Average: April 21st (60) - August 25th (47) All the signs point to a continuing decline in the breeding population. An early bird was found at Frankley on April 11th, with the main arrival beginning on 20th. The last was at Froghall (Staffs) on September 5th. Warks Passage males sang at Alvecote on April 21st, Brandon from 24th-28th with two on the last date, and at Ladywalk on May 6th. Worcs A continued decline on the Malverns, with just one singing male this year: at British Camp. Elsewhere, two singing males were at Arley/Coldridge Woods in mid-May, and in June there were eight along Dowles Brook, one at Rock Coppice and three at Seckley Wood. After an early passage bird by Frankley church on April 11th, further migrants sang at Upton Warren from April 24th- 28th, May 5th and 12th, at Westwood from May 4th-10th, and at Shavers End on 12th. Staffs Singing males were noted during the breeding season at: Alton Towers, Back Forest (two), Bearda Hill, Cannock Chase (one at Brocton Coppice and four at Seven Springs), Churnet Woodlands (six), Coombes Valley (seven, cf. eight in 1995 and nine in 1994) and Knotbury (two), all traditional areas. Spring migrants appeared during April-May at Belvide (two), Chasewater, Checkhill, Newcastle-under-Lyne and Westport, with an autumn bird on the Caulden Canal at Froghall on September 5th. IV Mid A singing male was in Saltwells Wood on April 28th and May 4th, with another recorded on the Mons Hill CBC. A late migrant was singing at Harbome NR on May 23rd.

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Summer migrants began to appear from March 12th, with the main influx from 19th. Warks The best breeding territory counts were of six in Edgehill Wood, eight in Hay Wood, five in Itchington Holt, four at Ladywalk, seven in Ryton Wood, five at The Somers and ten in Whichford Wood. Only eight on the BAD Kineton count represented the lowest figure since they began in 1987, being only a 138

third of the average. On autumn passage there were peaks of 35 at Meon Hill on August 26th, 20 at Wormleighton Res on 30th and 17 at Fenny Compton Hills on September 14th. Summer migrants were present in the county from March 12th-October 26th, with records outside this period at Ladywalk on January 1st, Brandon from 1st-15th (two), Coton on 6th (two), Wormleighton Res on November 6th and 13th, Charlecote on 24th and December 8th, Kingsbury on December 5th (two), and Draycote on 26th. Worcs Breeding survey plots suggested a small decrease in the population compared to 1995. There were three pairs at Alfrick (cf. six in 1995), 12 on the Malverns from British Camp-The Gullet (cf. ten in 1995), five at North Piddle (cf. six in 1995), four at Southcrest (cf. six in 1995), whilst at Webheath the population was stable at three pairs. Elsewhere, reported from 59 localities in the breeding season. The best territory concentrations were six at Abberley Hills, six on Kempsey/Stonehall Commons, seven at Midsummer Hill and nine at Old Hills Common. The largest numbers seen on passage were ten at Lower Moor on April 2nd and 25 in Happy Valley on September 13th. Late winter records came from Kempsey on January 16th, Oakley on 17th and Tiddesley Wood on February 29th. One was present at Upton Warren from late October to the end of the year, with further singles at Lower Moor on November 2nd and December 21st, Holt from November 30th- December 5th, Wilden on 10th and at both Hawford (Droitwich Canal) and Romsley on 29th. Staffs Reported from 22 sites in the breeding season, with the best territory counts of eight at Belvide, four at Blithfield, ten at Churnet Woodlands, nine at Coombes Valley, over ten at Hanchurch and five in Trentham Park. Available counts suggest numbers are fairly stable. On spring passage, a 'fall' of 50 with other warblers was reported from Pendeford Mill NR on April 13th. Autumn passage peaked in September, when there was maxima of six at Belvide, ten at Blithfield, 20 at Brocton Field (on 21st) and eight at Westport. The only winter record involved up to two at Westport from November 15th until the onset of very cold conditions on December 21st. W Mid Breeding season territories reported from 19 sites (including Deersleap Wood in north Edgbaston), with the best counts of two-three at Fens Pools, three- four at Harborne NR, five on Mons Hill CBC, three at Park Lime Pits CBC, six in Park Wood (Coventry), 12 in Rough Wood (on April 24th), seven-ten in Sandwell Valley and six in Woodgate Valley. Winter birds were seen at: Fens Pools, one on November 30th; Netherton Res, singles on January 26th, November 22nd and December 8th; and Sheepwash UP, one during January and two on December 1 st.

Siberian Chiffchaff P. c. tristis Very rare vagrant (4/10). Only the sixth ever record of a bird positively identified as this subspecies, though as with many difficult races, field identification alone is still rather contentious. Staffs One showing characteristics of this race was seen at Chasewater on December 1st ICW, MY. 139

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Abundant summer resident, though with some recent decline. Average: March 26th (62) - October 5th (62) First arrived in spring at Ladywalk on March 28th when four were seen, though few others were reported before the end of the month, and only a trickle before April 10th when the main influx began. A good number of October records were received again, with the latest at Fenny Compton on 14th. Warks A noticeable drop in the BAD Kineton summer count with only 64 recorded, about 30% below average. Other breeding season territory counts included 50 at Ladywalk (on April 28th), 20 at The Somers, ten at Ufton Fields and eight around Wormleighton Res. Passage maxima included a 'fall' of 54 at Draycote on April 13th (with 40 still present next day), and 30 at Meon Hill on August 26th. Worcs Clear indications of a decrease in breeding strength; particularly at Malvern, where 48 pairs were located from British Camp-The Gullet (cf. 63 in 1995). Other counts support this, with three pairs at North Piddle (cf. eight in 1995), five at Southcrest (cf. six in 1995) and none on a 1 km2 plot at Webheath since 1994. Still a common bird though, with the largest territory concentrations being 12 at Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, 31 at Midsummer Hill and 24 at Old Hills Common. Records of 12 singing at Upton Warren on April 13th and 16 singing at Walton Hill on 20th probably included passage birds. Reported from a total of 42 localities. Staffs The best territory counts were of nine at Brumb Hill, 14 in Churnet Wood- lands, 128 in Coombes Valley (where back to 1994's figure after a slight drop last year), eight at Highgate Common (cf. 16 in 1995), 12 at Knotbury and ten at Westport. Other counts during April probably included spring passage birds, including 15 at Belvide on 14th and 16 at Westport on 17th. On return passage, a total of 40 bird/days were noted at a site by the R.Dove, while 15 were seen at Belvide on August 11th. W Mid Breeding season records reported from 17 sites, including Deersleap Wood in north Edgbaston. Territory counts included 11 at Fens Pools, three at Mons Hill CBC (as last year), eight at Park Lime Pits CBC (cf. six in 1995), 12 in Rough Wood (on April 24th) and nine in Woodgate Valley. Mid-April counts of 23 in Sandwell Valley (on 13th) and nine at Sheepwash UP were presumably including passage birds, though the population at the former was thought to be well in excess of this number. Declines were noted at Bourne Vale (where only one seen) and again in Sutton Park, but at Harborne NR numbers were thought to have doubled since last year.

Northern Willow Warbler P. c. acredula Warks A bird resembling a well-marked example of this race, which breeds from northern Scandinavia eastwards into north Russia, was watched at close quarters in birches at Windmill Hill (Nuneaton) on April 30th JJB.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Common resident and winter visitor. Warks Only five on the BAD Kineton summer count was half the average and was 140

the lowest total since 1992 (cf. counts of 15-19 there from 1993-5). Numbers were also thought to have been reduced in several other areas, following the severe winter weather early in the year. However breeding was widely proven, including six broods noted in Oakley Wood. The largest parties recorded were of ten at Brandon on January 7th, ten at Chesterton Pools on 12th, 15 in Oakley Wood on 31st, 20 at Ufton Fields on November 30th and 12 at Burton Dassett Hills on December 8th. Worcs Breeding season records from 17 localities including several areas well away from major conifer plantations, such as Little Comberton (in a Lawson's Cypress), Lower Moor, Tibberton, and for the first time at Webheath. Small numbers noted at various sites outside the breeding season, including 20 at Callow Hill on November 8th and 30 at Kingsford on December 8th. Staffs Reports from just ten sites, including breeding pairs at Coombes Valley (19, a continued increase from 12 in 1995, eight in 1994 and five in 1993), Churnet Woodlands (six) and Hanchurch (two). The largest winter count was ten on Highgate Common on January 9th. W Mid A pair bred successfully in Handsworth Wood, with almost certain breeding noted at Streetly and Tocil Wood (Coventry). The only other breeding season records came from Harborne NR, Mons Hill and Sandwell Valley. Reported from a further 15 sites outside this period, but with no records of more than five together.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred 1975 and possibly in several other years up to 1989. Warks In April, singles were seen at Charlecote Park on 9th DG and Wormleighton Res on 12th JJB. The latter was a male which briefly broke into song. Worcs One was along Dowles Brook on January 28th JAA. A singing male at Kempsey Common on June 5th MAS et al. was probably a late spring migrant as it could not be found the next day. W Mid Singles were in Woodgate Valley from at least January 27th-29th BRP, SPR and in Sutton Park on December 27th DHR.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common though declining summer resident. Average: May 2nd (60) - September 27th (60) An early bird was at Brandon from April 28th, with others arriving daily from May 2nd. The last autumn bird was seen at Iverley (Worcs) on September 29th. Warks Reported from 24 localities in the breeding season, with proved breeding pairs at: Ashorne, Burton Dassett, Cherington, Coleshill (where absent in 1995), Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton (four), llmington, Lighthorne (three), Packington and The Somers (two). Numbers were still low in the north, notably at Packington where breeding was reported to be less successful than in previous years. By contrast in the south-east it was thought to be slightly more frequent this year, while a pair on territory at Brandon Marsh was the first such record there for some years. Reported from a further six 141

sites on autumn passage, including ten at Meon Hill on August 26th and seven at llmington Downs on September 15th. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Abberton, Hillditch Coppice, Hornhill Wood, Island Pool and Upton Warren, where five on May 25th undoubtedly included passage birds. Reported in the breeding season at: Beckford, Bewdley, Bredon Hill, Bredon's Hardwick, Broadway GP, Callow Hill, Castlemorton Common, Dowles Brook, Footrid, Frankley, Hanbury Park, Kempsey Common, Old Hills Common, Overbury, Pirton, Rock Coppice, Shavers End, Tank Quarry, The Knapp, Webheath, Westwood and Wyre Piddle. Seen on autumn passage at Feckenham (including 12 on August 28th), Happy Valley and Lickey Hills. Staffs Reports came from 20 sites, including breeding pairs at: Blithfield (Stansley Wood), Churnet Woodlands (three), Coombes Valley (six), Hanchurch (four), Meerbrook and Ousley Cross. Passage migrants included maxima of five at both Belvide and Newcastle-under-Lyne in May. Reported as totally absent from Little Wyrley this year. W Mid A much better year, with proven or suspected breeding pairs at Balsall Common, Berkswell, Cornets End (two), Saltwells Wood and Whitley (Coventry). The latter pair reared three young in a garden nestbox after having been predated by Grey Squirrels for the previous two years. In addition a pair at the Martineau Environmental Centre in urban Edgbaston on June 8th may also have been breeding. Spring migrants were noted from May 3rd- June 2nd at: Berkswell GP (two on June 2nd), Crowlher Road Wood, Fens Pools, Harborne NR (two on May 23rd), Meriden, Park Lime Pits (max. three on May 23rd), Sandwell Valley (max. three on May 24th), Sheepwash UP, Valley Park and Woodgate Valley. Autumn passage was late but did include a good passage through Sandwell Valley on 11 dates from August 31st- September 22nd, with an excellent peak count of 17 on 6th. Otherwise there was a scattering of ones or twos during August 28th-September 24th at: Brownhills Nature Trail, Clayhanger, Fens Pools, Fishley, Harborne NR, Moseley, Park Lime Pits, Pelsall North Common, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Coldfield and Wergs (Wolverhampton).

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Frequent summer migrant and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Worcs and Staffs. Average: April 20th (50) - September 7th (31) The first seen in spring was at Packington on April 13th, with a general arrival over the following few days. In autumn, Ihe last bird was reported from Sheepwash UP on September 24th. Warks An excellent spring, with single males at Packington Park on April 13th, Brandon on 14th, Stoneythorpe Hall (Southam) on 16th, Whatcote on 17th, Brandon again on 22nd and Draycote on 24th. A solitary autumn record of a bird at Meon Hill on August 24th. Worcs The only breeding data this year came from the Lickey Hills where two pairs were unsuccessful; in one case the female and five young having been killed by a weasel. Other breeding season records came from: British Camp, Callow Hill, Dowles Brook, Midsummer Hill, New Parks and The Knapp. 142

Spring migrants were at Broadway GP on April 14th, Bretforton on 16th, Alve- church on 19th, Frankley Beeches on 20th, Upton Warren on 24th and May 12th, Dunhampstead (a pair) on April 27th and Happy Valley on May 13th. In autumn there was one at Frankley Church on September 20th. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Belvide (in a nestbox: for the first time ever here), Cannock Chase (one at Brocton Coppice and two at Seven Springs), Churnet Woodlands (five), Coombes Valley (47, cf. 40 in 1995, 39 in 1994), Crumpwood and Swythamley. Singing males or passage migrants were also reported from Alton Towers, Aqualate, Bearda Hill, Byrkley Park, longstand- ing, Newcastle-under-Lyne, Newchufcli, l itteswonh and Westport. W Mid Spring passage males were at Park Lime Pits on April 18th and 30th, followed by a very late bird there on May 25th. A male was also in Sandwell Valley on April 19th, with a pair on 21st and a male in the same area on 28th, while a male at Sheepwash UP on 26th completed the records. Autumn passage began with one in a Dudley garden on August 8th, followed by singles at Footshole on 10th, Fens Pools on 24th and September 4th, Hampton-in- Arden on August 26th, Sheepwash UP on September 3rd and 24th, and at Bartley on 20th. 1991 Addendum Warks A male at Shustoke on April 15th was the only record of the year in the county.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common resident. Warks Only eight were logged on the BAD Kineton summer count (cf. 22 in 1995), which was 50% below the average and the lowest figure since 1992. Also thought to be slightly less common this year in several other districts, presumably due to the effects of the cold winter. The largest parties were of 36 at Brandon on November 15th, 30 at Ladywalk (feeding on suet at the feeding station) in both winter periods and in Ryton Wood on February 16th and 25 at Yarningale Common on January 31st; with groups of 15-20 at Alvecote, BAD Kineton, Chesterton, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Hay Wood, Kingsbury, Rad- way and Wormleighton Res. A leucistic bird was seen at Draycote on April 14th. Worcs Breeding season records seemed to suggest a fairly stable situation, with a small increase to four pairs at Alfrick and a decline to two pairs at North Piddle; with two pairs also at Tibberton, Old Hills Common and Shortwood Roughs, and three pairs at Southcrest. Numerous small parties were reported, the largest being 25 at Arrow Valley Lake on February 22nd and in the Oddingley/Crowle Green area on November 3rd. Of the rest, no less than seven flocks contained around 20 birds; with records from Trench Wood in January, Castlemorton Common in July, Berrow Down and Dunhampstead in November, and at Lower Moor, Upton Warren and Stanley Wood in December. Staffs Nine pairs bred in Coombes Valley (cf. eight in 1995), where numbers reached as high as 150 in October. Smaller flocks of 20 or more were also noted at: Belvide, Calwich, Croxall, Dydon Wood, Elford, Highgate Common, Kidsgrove and Westport. Several reports continue to come in of birds frequenting garden feeders for peanuts and seed. 143

Long-tailed Tits (Terry Parker)

W Mid A widespread species with reports coming from 34 localities distributed throughout the county, including several close to Birmingham city centre. Counts of breeding pairs included five in both Sandwell Valley and the Sheepwash UP area (though only two successful at the latter), four at Mons Hill CBC, three at Fens Pools and at least two at Park Lime Pits. At three of these sites numbers were down from last year, presumably due to the cold weather early in the year. The largest late winter flocks comprised 14 at Deersleap Wood (Edgbaston) on January 16th, 24 at llley on February 3rd and 20 at Bourne Farm on 14th. Autumn flocks included 20 at both Woodgate Valley on October 16th and Sandwell Valley on 19th, 28 at Deersleap Wood on 24th, 20 at Sheepwash UP on November 9th and four flocks totalling over 40 in the Dunstall and Valley Parks area on 23rd. Birds continue to come to garden feeding stations in many suburban areas, sometimes in parties of up to 14.

Marsh Tit Parus palustris Fairly common resident. Warks Still poorly reported from the north of the county, though pairs were seen in 144

Bentley Park and Kingsbury Wood (six) in the breeding season. Widely reported trom southern and central districts, with breeding pairs (suspected or proved) at: Avon Dassett, Chesterton Wood, Cold Comfort and Three Oak Hill Woods (Alcester), Coombe, Edgehill Wood (six), Farnborough Park (four), Itchington Holt, Oakley Wood, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Ryton Wood, Shuckburgh Park, Snitterfield Bushes, Stoneton, Wormleighton Res and Yarningale Common. Worcs Breeding confirmed only at Bredon Hill and Dowles Brook, with surprisingly few other records for the breeding season received. Noted only at Arley Wood, Castlemorton Common, Coldridge Wood, Deerfold Wood, Dunhamp- stead, Marsh Common, Old Hills, The Gullet, Thrift Wood and Trench Wood. The 21 records from outside the breeding season included a party of six at Eymore Wood on November 8th, while singles in a Little Comberton garden and at Westminster Farm (Frankley) were both very unusual for the respective localities. Staffs Again few records received, with small numbers at Churnet Woodlands (six), Crumpwood, Ousley Cross (two), Downs Bank (three), Ecton (four) and Enville Hall. One at Westport on September 7th was a rare occurrence there. W Mid Singles in Saltwells Wood on March 2nd, Park Lime Pits on April 6th and llley on June 10th were the only records received of this county rarity.

Willow Tit Parus montanus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding season territories or breeding pairs were noted at: Alvecote, Bentley Common, Brandon (two), Chesterton, Draycote, Fenny Compton (three), Itchington Holt, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Oakley Wood, Packington, Poolfields, Priors Marston, Radway, Rugby, Shustoke, Sych Wood, The Somers, Ufton Fields, Whitacre Heath, Windmill Hill (Nuneaton), Wormleighton Res and Yarningale Common. A party of six at Oakley Wood on January 31st was the largest winter count. Widely distributed over most of the county; the pausity of records coming from the western side is presumably down to under- recording. Worcs Noted in the breeding season at: Arley Wood, Berrow Hill (Martley), Bittell, Coombe Green Coppice, Dowles Brook, Eymore Wood, Fall Dingle, Hanley Dingle, Mount Segg, Island Coppice, Orleton, Ravenshill Wood, Roundhill Wood, Shrawley Wood, Slashes Coppice, Stoke Bliss, Temple Dingle, Trench Wood, Weymans Wood and Wilden. Other records from a further eight sites. Staffs Breeding records came from Churnet Woodlands, Doxey and Westport. Also reported from Belvide (five), Cannock Chase, Copmere, Crumpwood, Dydon Wood, Highgate Common (three), Little Wyrley and Pendeford. WMid Breeding pairs were proved or suspected at: Fens Pools (three), Mons Hill CBC (two), Netherton Hill, Tocil Wood (two), Woodgate Valley (two) and Valley Park. A juvenile was found dead outside a shop window in Amblecote on June 15th, while also present in the breeding season at Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley. Further records came in autumn and early winter from Harborne NR, Hayhead Wood, Streetly and Wyken Slough (four). 145

Coal Tit Parus ater Common resident and eruptive winter visitor. Warks Appears to be doing well at present with breeding widely noted, including at least twelve broods in Oakley Wood on July 21st. An influx was noted in the south-east during the autumn coinciding with a national influx of continental birds, though whether this reached the county is not known. In Fenny Compton over 40 invaded village gardens during early October, in an area where only one or two pairs had earlier bred. Worcs Most records referred to small numbers in gardens. Woodland flocks included 20 at Arley Wood on February 14th and March 16th, 22 at Callow Hill on April 8th and 30 at Kingsford on December 8th. Staffs A good recovery was noted at Coombes Valley with 32 breeding pairs (cf. a drop from 27 pairs in 1994 to 14 in 1995). No other relevent information. W Mid Very little data received. Probable breeding pairs noted at Harborne, Mons Hill, Park Wood in Canley (three), Streetly and Tocil Wood, with other records from Aldridge, Dorridge, Fordhouses, Four Oaks, Marston Green, Sandwell Valley, Tettenhall, Wergs and Whitmore Reans. One or two noted at Sheep- wash UP during October were reported to be rare sightings in that area. Most records emanated from gardens.

Blue Tit Parus caeruieus Abundant resident. Warks Little relevent information received, though in some areas early broods were apparently often small or unsuccessful due to the cold conditions of May. Ladywalk reported a very poor season, with this species being outnumbered on the feeders by Great Tit during the winter months. The population at BAD Kineton appeared to be fairly stable. Worcs An increase of breeding pairs noted at Alfrick (22), North Piddle (18), South- crest (31) and Webheath (13). There were also ten pairs on Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, and 11 at Shortwood Roughs. The cold wet May seemed to have little effect at Timberhonger, where at least 40 young fledged from six nest-boxes, but was blamed for a complete failure to produce any young from nest-boxes at West Hagley. The largest parties reported were 40 at Trench Wood on January 14th, 30 at Arley Wood on February 4th, 20 at Castlemorton Common on March 24th, 30 at Witley Court on December 1st and 36 at Westwood on 15th. Staffs A slight drop in breeding pairs to 138 was registered at Coombes Valley (cf. 154 in 1995), though numbers trapped at Betley Mere CES were very similar to last year. Outside the breeding season the largest recorded parties were of 23 at Highgate Common on January 9th and December 12th, and 30 at Little Wyrley on November 16th. W Mid 15 territories on Mons Hill CBC marked a further decline there (cf. 17 in 1995 and 21 in 1994), while three contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey was also a decrease (cf. five in 1995). A pair failed to breed in a Bilston garden for the first time in nine years. About seven-eight pairs bred in Park Wood in Canley (Coventry). The largest winter flocks were of 31 in Deersleap Wood (Edgbaston) on January 5th and 30 in Sandwell 146

Valley on 12th, while 30 were again counted at the former wood on November 24lh.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks Very few records received. Numbers at BAD Kineton appeared to be stable. Worcs Mixed fortunes included increases in breeding pairs at Alfrick (15, cf. 12 in 1995) and Southcrest (11, cf. eight in 1995), and decreases at North Piddle (seven, cf. ten in 1995) and Webheath (four, cf. six in 1995). Elsewhere, five pairs were on Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, and six at Shortwood Roughs. Seems to have done well at Timberhonger, where at least 12 young fledged from two nest-boxes; but badly at West Hagley, where the nest-boxes yielded no birds at all. The largest parties reported were of 30 in Trench Wood on January 14th and 20 in Arley Wood on February 4th. Staffs The decline continued at Coombes Valley, with only 65 pairs breeding; in 1993 there were 90 here. W Mid Again, like the previous two species, little data received. A further decline was noted on the Mons Hill CBC with 19 territories (cf. 22 in 1995 and 28 in 1994), while eight contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey was twice as many as the three-four of the previous two years. The population in Park Wood (Coventry) was reported to be equal with Blue Tit at about seven-eight pairs. The largest winter parties were of 20 in Sandwell Valley on January 12th and 25 in Deersleap Wood on 15th, with 22 at the latter on December 1st.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common and increasing resident. Warks Seems to be commonest in northern, central and western districts, though widely reported from elsewhere. GRH reports that in his experience the species is much more widespread and common within the county than it was 25 years ago and this is borne out in the south-east. Here in 10km2 SP45 where woodland is less substantial and more isolated, the species Is still slowly spreading. Until recently the species was restricted as a breeding bird to the extreme south around Avon Dassett and Farnborough; then in about 1994 the species appeared and began to breed in the north at Ladbroke, and this year a pair turned up on October 5th at Fenny Compton and became resident (subsequently breeding in 1997), which were the first in living memory according to local residents. Elsewhere, significant breeding season counts included four pairs in Bentley Park Wood and at Farnborough Park, three pairs (cf. five in 1995) in Kingsbury Wood and in Shuckburgh Park, and five birds between Wood End and Piccadilly (Kingsbury). Worcs Breeding confirmed at Midsummer Hill; with breeding season records from: Alfrick, British Camp, Callow Hill, Castlemorton Common, Church Lench, Dodford, Dowles Brook, Happy Valley, Hindlip, Hornhill Wood, Martley, New- town, Shavers End, Shernal Green, Southcrest, Thrift Wood, Trench Wood, Trimpley, Walton Hill, Westwood and Wythall Meadow. Outside the breeding season reported at a further 21 localities, including Upton Warren where infrequently recorded. 147

Staffs Six pairs bred at both Churnet Woodlands and Coombes Valley, with records coming from a further 19 sites. A pair which bred in a nestbox at Belvide was the first ever to do so at that site. W Mid Breeding season records received from: Crowther Road Wood, Dorridge area (several pairs), Edgbaston, Edgbaston Park (two pairs), Four Oaks area, Hampton-in-Arden, Mary Stevens Park, Mons Hill, Park Wood (Coventry), Sandwell Valley, Streetly and Sutton Park. One in Marston Green gardens on July 6th was said to be unusual there. Outside the breeding season, further reports came from Bickenhill, Cannon Hill Park, Cuckoo's Nook, Edgbaston Res, Harborne NR, Hayhead Wood, Tettenhall and Wergs.

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks Breeding pairs confirmed at: Bentley Park (three), Brandon, Burton Dassett Hills, Cherington, Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton, Hay Wood, Kine- ton, Lighthorne, Oakley Wood (two), Packington (where very common), Priors Hardwick, Ryton Wood, Shuckburgh Park and Hills (at least five), Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Breeding confirmed at Kempsey Common, Old Hills Common and Upton Warren. Also noted in a further 34 localities, of which 15 were in the breeding season. Staffs. Breeding pairs were noted at Churnet Woodlands (nine), Coombes Valley (17, cf. 16 in 1995 and 12 in 1994) and Doxey CBC (two). Further sightings from 12 localities. W Mid Noted in the breeding season at: Dorridge Park (at least two pairs), Dunstall Park/Valley Park area, Edgbaston Park, Marston Green, Minworth SF, Mons Hill CBC (two territories), Sandwell Valley, Streetly, Sutton Park and Tocil Wood. Outside this period, further reports came from Aldridge GC, Four Oaks, Harborne NR, Park Lime Pits and Woodgate Valley.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. For the first time in the Region since about 1948 (when there were few observers) none were reported.

Jay Garruius giandarius Common resident. Warks A wide scatter of records, but no group of more than six reported. Worcs Noted at 38 localities around the county. The largest parties reported were of 18-20 on the Lickey Hills on February 3rd, ten at Bittell on March 13th, 12 at Seckley Wood on June 9th, 15 around Clent on November 1st and 20 at Eymore Wood on 8th. Staffs Six pairs bred in Coombes Valley. The largest parties were of ten at Little Wyrley on March 3rd, five at Checkhill on July 6th, up to 12 in Coombes Valley in the autumn, nine at Tittesworth on October 19th and five at Highgate Common on December 21st. The lack of local acorns and a small influx of continental birds on the east coast may have been responsible for increased sightings during late autumn. 148

W Mid Present during the breeding season at: Cuckoo's Nook, the Dunstall Park/ Valley Park area, Four Oaks, Harborne NR (three-four pairs), Marston Green, Mons Hill CBC (one territory), Park Lime Pits, Park Wood in Canley (four pairs), Rough Wood, Sandwell Valley, Streetly (fairly common), Sutton Park (ten in the Lower and Upper Nuthurst area on April 5th indicates a high population) and Tocil Wood. Outside the breeding season records came from a further 12 localities including several regular visitors to garden feeders. An increase in autumn records included 15 in Priory Wood, Sandwell Valley on October 30th, with others seen as close to Birmingham city centre as Deersleap Wood in north Edgbaston and The Ackers in Small Heath. Another in Penn was the observer's first record there in over thirty years.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Warks Few records received, with the largest assembly being of at least 25 roosting at Wormleighton Res on September 9th. A high level of shooting and trapping seems to keep flock sizes small over much of the rural south. Worcs Breeding season information came from: Alfrick (where three pairs was one less than in 1995), Southcrest (population fairly stable) and Webheath (steadily increasing). Only two reports of flocks; 33 at Upton Warren on January 9th and 12 at Castlemorton Common on February 25th. Staffs Five pairs bred in Coombes Valley. The Westport roost had a peak of 100 on January 21st, while other gatherings included 16 at Highgate Common on January 9th and 28 in Newcastle Cemetery on December 20th. W Mid The only breeding counts received were six territories on Mons Hill CBC (back to the 1993 level after a peak of nine in 1994), three contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey and ten nests counted at Sheepwash UP. The largest assemblies comprised 40 in Sandwell Valley on January 12th, 35 in Deersleap Wood on February 20th, 37 at Cuckoo's Nook on 27th, 82 roosting in trees on the railway embankment at Sheepwash UP on March 3rd and 100 roosting at the council nursery in Valley Park on December 24th. Reported to have raided every known nest within some gardens at Four Oaks. A 'coffee-coloured' individual was present in the Frankley area from the latter half of 1995 up to July at least of this year, while a similar- looking bird was at Coombeswood on April 19th.

Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks The roost on the Fenny Compton Hills reached a peak of 1000 on November 7th. Other large counts included 250 at Chesterton on January 12th and 300 at BAD Kineton on November 15th. Thought to be increasing at Ladywalk. Worcs Breeding data show a decline to three pairs at Alfrick (cf. five in 1995). Two pairs occupied nestboxes at Dodford, where it was believed to be on the increase locally. Other counts of breeding pairs included three at North Piddle, five at Old Hills Common, two at Southcrest and an increase to 11 at Webheath. Most reported flocks were of 200 or less, but exceptions were 300 149

at Haws Hill on January 5th, and an impressive flock estimated at 2000-2500 feeding on cut maize at Castlemorton Common on December 1st. Staffs The largest reported assembly was 650 at Copmere on February 1st; while other counts included 60 at Ashbank on March 9th, 100 at Betley, 117 in Coombes Valley and 200 at Crossplains all during October, 350 moving south-east overTlttesworth on November 2nd and 250 at Piltstones Wood on December 1st. W Mid The few breeding records reported came from Handsworth Wood, Park Lime Pits/Rushall Hall area, Streetly (where absent ten years ago) and probably at Four Oaks, Minworlh SF and Sandwell Valley. Reported to be a numerous bird in the Dorridge area and increasing at Sheepwash UP. The largest flocks were of 400 feeding on Smestow Fields in Valley Park during January, with 500 in a mixed corvid roost at nearby Whitwick in December; both high counts for the county. Other flocks included 60 over Park Lime Pits on September 27th, 70 flying east over Sandwell Valley on October 1 st and 80 south-west over Oldbury on 10th, the latter possibly involving autumn passage migrants.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Abundant resident. Warks An increase was noted at the Sych Wood (Lea Marston) rookery where 120 nests were occupied (cf. 77 in 1994), including 18 on pylons. Other rookery counts included: 15 at Baginton Fields, 75 near Bishop's Itchington, 110 at Chesterton, 137 in four rookeries around Farnborough/Fenny Compton and 40 at Stoneleigh. Up to 600 fed in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton area from July-December, roosting in woodland on the adjacent hills; while 300 at Barford on April 5th, 400 at Chesterton on October 30th and 500 flighting to roost over the Whateley/Freasley area on November 5th were the next best flocks. Worcs The handful of rookeries for which nest counts have been received indicate a further decline at Alfrick where now just three occupied, but a stable situation at North Piddle with ten again. A rookery near Kempsey Common contained 19 occupied nests, but the best count was from Warford Dingle where the 33 nests were in ash trees. Several flocks were reported, the largest being 320 at Tibberton on June 2nd, 350 at Throckmorton on July 18th, 380 near Oddingley on 28th and 300 at Castlemorton Common on December 1st. Staffs Nest counts of 58 at Coombes Valley (cf. 52 in 1995 and 46 in 1994) and 148 at Beckwood (cf. 147 in 1995) indicate a stable or slightly increasing population in those areas. The only reported flocks were of 519 at Coombes Valley in March, 60 at Tlttesworth in May and 100 at Highgate Common during the autumn. WMid Rookery nest counts came from: Bosty Lane in Aldridge (five), Balsall Common (12), Kenilworth Road at Gibbet Hill in south Coventry (82), Min- worth SF (21, cf. 15 in 1994), Pelsall Common (six, cf. 13 in 1994) and Valley Park (17). Five feeding along the new Black Country Spine Road at Black Lake in June and 32 on Ryder's Green school playing fields on November 17th indicate a general spread of this species in the West Bromwich area 150

away from Sandwell Valley, where the rookery is thriving but no counts were received. The largest flocks were of 200 on Smestow Fields, Valley Park and 150 at Gibbet Hill in January, and at least 100 in Longmoor Valley, Sutton Park on December 7th.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone corone Very common resident. Warks Few records of note. At BAD Kineton a total of 89 logged on the summer count represented a stable population. The largest reported flock was 60 at Drayooto on Ootobor 27th. Worcs The only flocks reported were 60 at Bredon's Hardwick on January 2nd, 50 at North Hill on October 21st, 200 at Castlemorton Common from November 3rd-December 1st and 171 at Bittell on November 10th. Staffs Five pairs bred in Coombes Valley as last year. The largest flocks were of over 250 at Baswich STW on January 25th, 93 at Belvide on August 19th and 90 at Anslow on October 22nd. W Mid Counts of breeding pairs came only from Fens Pools (two-three) and Mons Hill CBC (two), while six contacts made on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey were two fewer than last year. An adult on Barr Common on August 1st was in company with three juveniles possessing over 50% white plumage; while other pied birds were present in Sutton Park where hundreds were using the regular winter roost, though with no specific counts. Otherwise reported flocks were small, with maxima of 30 in Sandwell Valley on January 12th (no counts from the large roost there), 45 at Bartley on February 23rd, 85 in Valley Park on March 12th and 24 on the old Walsall airfield on October 11th.

Corvids spp. W Mid A mixed corvid roost of over 3000 was present at Wightwick during Decem- ber, including about 500 Jackdaws.

Raven Corvus corax An uncommon visitor and scarce (though increasing) resident in Worcs and Staffs. Very rare elsewhere. Worcs An amazing 103 records received from 46 localities, too many to list in- dividually. Breeding was confirmed at four locations in the west and south- east of the county MJI, RM, BW, SMW. The largest party was seven at North Hill on March 30th GJM. Most records were from west of the Severn, but the slow spread eastwards was typified by a number of records from the Clent area throughout the year sev. obs. Other records from: Bredon's Hardwick, two on January 4th WFP, October 10th and December 8th SJH; Caunsall, two in November BW; Defford, one on May 8th KH; Larford, two on January 31st GHP; Porter's Mill, one on November 3rd GJM; Ryall, one on October 12th LAB; Strensham, one on August 26th MWCW; Trench Wood, one on April 21st KMcG; Upton Warren, two from January 14th-February 5th JTB, REH et al.; and Westwood, one on December 28th GG, TMH. The latter was the first record for the locality. Staffs Records came from: Cannock Chase, two in the Brocton/Sherbrook Valley area on October 6th and November 11th ICW, MY; Enville/Sheepwalks area, 151

one on January 1st SAR, two on March 2nd FCG, one on April 9th SMD and 15th DSk, and two on December 5th ICW and 28th SLH; Knotbury, one on May 26th GIG, PDH; Mow Cop, two on August 27th and four on September 2nd WJL; Ramshaw Rocks, two on December 14th AK, DK; Tittesworth, one on February 1st PAW; and Westport, two on July 7th NC, WJL.

Starling Sturnus vulgaris Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The largest flocks reported were of 900 on sheep pasture at Fenny Compton on June 3rd and on ploughland there on October 14th, with 800 at Northend on 19th and 1000 at Baginton Industrial Estate on 27th of the same month. Visible autumn passage was reported to be almost non-existant this year in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton area, with 300 west on October 25th the only count of note. The BAD Kineton summer count was less than half the average and represented a continued decline from relatively high numbers recorded in the late 1980's. Worcs In the early part of the year several small flocks were reported, the largest being 300 at Webheath on January 20th and 500 at Bishampton Vale GC on February 11 th. Mid-summer flocks included 350 at Tibberton on June 2nd and 2000 at Upton Warren on 5th; while the best autumn counts were 2000 at Throckmorton Tip on October 26th, 500 at Strensham on 27th and 340 at Bittell on 28th, with 500 at Oldington STW on December 10th. A leucistic bird was at Throckmorton Tip on November 30th. Staffs The Betley Mere roost was larger this year, with up to 2000 from June- September. Other flocks included 400 at Little Wyrley on March 3rd, over 2000 at Burton-on-Trent on September 9th, 500 at Hockley (Tamworth) on October 15th and 500 moving south over Tlttesworth on 22nd. WMid Two territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC. The formerly large Coventry city centre roost was down to around 200 this year, while counts from elsewhere included over 250 moving north-east over Barr Beacon on the late afternoon of March 17th, 700 feeding in paddocks in Sandwell Valley on 25th, 200 feeding on ants in Sheldon on October 7th, 500 in Dunstall Park on November 17th and 175 feeding on berries in Smethwick High Street on December 11th.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant, though declining resident. Warks A continued decline was noted at BAD Kineton where only eight were logged on the summer count, which was down to 40% of the average. Flocks of up to 50 were reported from several rural parishes in the south-east, with larger ones of 150 near Wormleighton Res on January 25th, 100 at Radway on September 8th, 80 at Fenny Compton on December 21st and up to 100 again near Wormleighton Res during the same month. In Fenny Compton there was a juvenile with white wings and tail from June 9th-12th and a uniformly cinnamon-coloured one on July 8th. Worcs Increases were noted at Alfrick, where nine pairs bred (cf. six in 1995), and at Webheath. A fairly stable situation was revealed by the Breeding Bird 152

Survey results at Southcrest. Several small flocks were reported, the largest being 25 at Tardebigge on January 22nd, 30 at Birlingham on 25th, 70 at Arley on December 5th and 50 at Tibberton on 28th. Staffs Garden flocks included maxima of 50 at Great Wyrley and 25 in Hockley (Tamworth). Coombes Valley could report no more than a maximum of three during the year. W Mid Eight territories on Mons Hill CBC were two up on last year. The only notable flocks reported were of 50 in Sandwell Valley on July 31 st and 40 amongst ripening wheat at Park Lime Pits on August 24th. The species was reported as a rarity in four observer's gardens situated in Dorridge, Four Oaks and Streetly. More information on local status is badly needed.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common though declining resident Warks The stronghold of this species appears to be in the south-east where birds were noted in the breeding season in 21 contiguous parishes from Shuck- burgh and Southam, south-west to Chesterton, Kineton and Radway. The largest concentration was in Fenny Compton parish where no fewer than 60 breeding pairs were located in 941 hectares JJB. A colony of at least 15 pairs were also found on a farm in Priors Marston parish. Elsewhere in the county it still appears to be very local, with small numbers reported breeding at Bearley and in the Charlecote/Hampton Lucy area, and up to three pairs recorded further north at Baginton, Brandon, Corley, Green End (Fillongley), Hurley and Rugby. It was more widespread in winter with the largest flocks in the south-east comprising maxima of 95 near Wormleighton Res on April 15th and 110 at Fenny Compton on November 7th, with smaller ones from elsewhere of 35 at Tysoe on January 2nd, 25 at Warton on 7th, 30 at Furnace End and 60 at Bodymoor Heath on February 10th, 60 on a Coleshill smallholding on 17th, 23 at Grandborough on November 30th and 40 at Baginton on December 15th. Small flocks were noted coming regularly to feeding stations in several areas, including gardens at Southam and Whit- acre Heath. Worcs Small numbers bred at: Besford, Bittell, Bretforton, Croome Court, Defford, Eastham, Frankley, Mount Segg, North Piddle, Rowney Green, Sneachill, Stanford Bridge, Stoke Bliss, Stoke Prior, Throckmorton and near Tlddesley Wood. The only double figure totals were 12 at both Wadborough on Feb- ruary 2nd and Throckmorton on 17th, 25 at Larford on 25th, ten at Stoke Prior on April 24th, ten at Clifton-on-Teme on August 29th, 40-50 at Grafton Lane, Bromsgrove on 30th, and ten feeding on Maize stubble at Castlemorton Common on December 1st. Staffs Reported from a total of 24 localities, including an encouraging number of gardens. The largest flocks were 50 at Dessington and 20 at Elford on January 15th, 20 at Meretown Pool on 22nd, 100 at Bradley on February 11th, 40 at Whitemoor Hay on March 9th, 20 at Blithfield on May 26th, 30 on the Weaver Hills on August 9th and 30 at Ashwood on December 22nd. W Mid Confirmed or suspected breeding pairs at: Park Lime Pits (two), Pedmore (three), Sandwell Valley ('reasonable numbers') and in the Wiggins Hill Road/ 153

Wishaw Lane area. Four in the Dorridge area on June 23rd may also have been nesting locally. Notable flocks included 30 regularly in the paddocks area of Sandwell Valley from January-March and again in September, and 20 by the Wiggins Hill Road canal bridge on October 2nd. A few were present fairly regularly in the Lutley area during the early months, peaking at nine on January 5th; while two in the barley fields at Valley Park on December 15th were the first for four years at this once favoured locality. One or two were also noted outside the breeding season in the Aldridge area, and at Balsall Common, Dorridge, Frankley Waterworks and Round Hill.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Little breeding data as usual, though the BAD Kineton count was down (94 as against 114 in 1995). Flocks of up to 70 were reasonably widespread outside the breeding season, with late winter maxima of 100 near Wormleighton Res on January 25th, 80 at Fenny Compton on February 1st and 100 under beech trees in Farnborough Park on 27th. Autumn passage mainly to the south-west was noted at Napton Hill, with 200 over on October 17th; and on the Fenny Compton Hills from October 1st-27th, which reached a peak rate of over 80 per hour from 23rd-26th. On the latter date there were also 100 on Meon Hill and 30 on llmington Downs, this period coinciding with a large influx on the Norfolk coast. The best early winter flocks consisted of 100 at Wormleighton Res on November 26th and 90 at Chesterton on December 4th. Worcs Breeding numbers were again slightly up at Alfrick with 18 pairs (cf. 16 in 1995, 14 in 1994), but down at North Piddle with 24 pairs (cf. 28 in 1995 and 30 in 1994). Other counts of singing males included 14 at Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, 21 on the slopes of Midsummer Hill, eight at Old Hills Common, 12 at Shortwood Roughs and 12 at Webheath. Well reported in autumn-winter, with maxima of 100 at Grimley on January 28th, 230 at Happy Valley on October 24th, 450-500 at Castlemorton Common on December 1st, 250 at Bredon's Hardwick on 14th, 130 at Ripple on 24th, 110 at Stone on 27th and 100 at Shenstone on 29th. Staffs The breeding population partly recovered at Coombes Valley with 84 pairs (cf. 67 in 1995 and 88 in 1994). The best winter flocks were 130 at Gailey and 70 at Sheepwalks on January 13th, 200 at Rudyard on 20th, 150 at Copmere on 28th, 100 in Ridgehill Wood on February 1st, 100 at Drayton Bassett on March 31st and 50 at Lawneswood on December 24th. W Mid Breeding season records from only eight sites, including six territories on Mons Hill CBC (cf. four in 1995), and seven contacts on the Park Lime Pits woodland survey (cf. eight in 1995). The only large flocks reported were 150 under beeches in Sutton Park on February 3rd, 52 in Ladywood on 21st and 150 in the Salters Lane area of Sandwell Valley throughout November.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers. Average: October 10th (61)-April 18th (60) Last seen in spring at Stoke Bliss (Worcs) on April 20th. An early autumn 154

migrant was seen in Arley Wood (Worcs) on September 21st, with the main influx occulting IIOIII Oulubei 6lli. Warks Scarce during late winter with just two near Wormleighton Res on January 17th, and singles at Packington on February 4th, Ryton Wood on 15th, an Avon Dassett garden from March 16th-26th and at Draycote on 22nd. The usual April influx produced one at Fenny Compton on 2nd, four in gardens bordering Earlswood Lakes on 7th, two in Farnborough Park and one at Kenilworth on 8th, two at Shustoke on 13th and one at Brandon on 14th. In autumn up to three frequently appeared in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton area from October 9th-26th, while a small influx on the latter date also produced 12 at llmington Downs and two on both Meon Hill and Napton Hill. Unfortunately flocks subsequently failed to materialize, with records during the final two months confined to singles at Brandon, Chesterton, Ladywalk, Leamington Spa, Middleton Hall, Packington, Radway and Shustoke, with three at Draycote on December 28th. Worcs Many reports of up to ten in both winter periods. Numbers seemed to be slow to build up after the start of the year, and the first significant count was not until February 3rd, when 22 were on the Lickey Hills. However, later maxima included 100 in the Wyre Forest on February 10th, 80 at Cofton Hackett on March 13th and 175 at Clent on April 9th. In early autumn 12 flew west over Walton Hill on October 6th, and there were 20 in Happy Valley on 14th and 24th. The largest flock of the year was found at Blakeshall, where numbers peaked at 350 on December 26th. Staffs Widely reported during the early months, with the largest flocks of 80 at Greenway Bank CP and 180 at Rudyard on January 21st and 200 feeding under beeches at the White House on Cannock Chase on 28th, with 100 still there during March. Flocks of 20-30 were also found during this period at Brocton, Ridgehill Wood and St. John's Wood (Kidsgrove). Only very small numbers appeared in autumn. W Mid A scatter of late winter records included one at Fens Pools on January 16th, three under beeches in Sutton Park on February 3rd, singles in Sandwell Valley on 7th and Bartley on 10th, three by the Grand Union Canal in Solihull on 16th, six in a Streetly garden on 17th and one in Ladywood on 21st. Unusually there were no spring sightings. The only records later in the year concerned singles at Park Lime Pits on October 24th and on Brownhills nature trail on November 6th, together with a small flock in Sandwell Valley from 20th to the end of the year, which peaked at 11 on November 22nd.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Abundant resident. Warks Very little information on breeding status, though six pairs at Alvecote was a slight increase. Outside the breeding season flocks of up to 50 were probably rather more numerous than recently, while larger late winter flocks included 70 coming to a feeding station near Wormleighton Res on January 25th and 100 at Barford Wood on March 31 si. Autumn and early winter flocks included 90 in a weedy field at Fenny Compton on September 14th, 60 at Chesterton on December 4th, 90 in kale at Burton Dassett on 8th, 80 at Wormleighton 155

Res on 12th and 60 at Butlers Marston on 16th. In addition up to 70 frequented the Ladywalk feeding station during the year. Worcs Rather conflicting reports on breeding season strength. Where census work was carried out the results suggested a fairly stable situation. Seven pairs at Alfrick, 12 around Kempsey and Stonehall Commons, three at North Piddle and 13 at Webheath were broadly similar to the previous year. A considerable increase occurred at Southcrest, with seven pairs (cf. five in 1995 and one in 1994). On the other hand, in subjective assessments of the Tibberton and south Worcs districts respectively, two observers considered that there had been a major decline. Outside the breeding season several flocks of up to 40 were reported, with larger ones of 70 at Timberhonger in early August, 160 at Larford on October 7th, an exceptional 750 feeding on linseed at Blakeshall on December 8th REH, and 250 at Bredon's Hardwick on 14th. Staffs Three pairs breeding at Coombes Valley was about average. The only flocks reported were of 100 at Little Wyrley on September 8th, 50 at Lawneswood on December 24th, and 225 at Hanbury during the same month. A leucistic bird, exhibiting a pink bill and off-white plumage but with normal yellow pigments in the wings and tail, was present at Westlands, Newcastle during December WJL. W Mid Three territories on the Mons Hill CBC were one up from last year, but no contacts were made during the Park Lime Pits woodland survey as against three in 1995. A total of 220 were counted coming into roost in dense holly hedges in Sutton Park on February 3rd. Otherwise apart from 100 in Dart- mouth Park on March 11th, flock-sizes were rather small, with 30 roosting at Aldersley on February 1st, 20 in Norton churchyard (Stourbridge) on 11th, and 20 in stubble at Park Lime Pits on December 21st the best counts.

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Common resident and partial migrant. Warks Breeding numbers appear relatively stable. Numerous flocks of up to 40 were seen, with larger ones of over 50 at Draycote on March 19th, 70 at Lighthorne Quarry on August 31st, 55 at Wormleighton Res on September 9th, 75 at Fenny Compton on 27th and 120 on Meon Hill on October 5th. Worcs The handful of breeding records suggested no change in status from the previous year. Outside the breeding season there were many reports of flocks of up to 30 birds. Larger counts were 75 at Ipsley Alders on March 1st, 200 on thistles at Bredon's Norton on September 4th, 75 at Grimley on 29th, 60 at Lower Smite on October 8th, 100 at Martley on 20th, 36 at Castlemorton Common on 24th, 80 at Ryall on 26th, 50 at Larford on 31st and 80 at Holt on November 30th. Staffs Monthly maxima at Westport:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 30 54 4 6 6 2 4 e 12 3 62 BO

Five pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. three in 1995). Elsewhere the largest flocks were of 100 at Tittesworth on January 2nd, 60 at Elford on 13th, 24 at Hockley on February 16th, 50 at Aqualate on 18th, 50 at 156

Forton on April 20th, 40 at Belvide on October 7th, and up to 37 at Little Wyrley from November 23rd-December 30th. W Mid Reports came from 17 localities. The largest concentrations comprised 30 in Sheldon CP on February 4th, an excellent 200 in Sandwell Valley on August 17th, with up to 30 on Netherton Hill, 25 in Dunstall Park, over 50 at Hampton- in-Arden and 20 in Woodgate Valley on dates from August-October.

Siskin Carduelis spinus Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeder. Warks Unusually scarce early in the year when apart from two flocks of 60 in II ie Packington area during January-February and flocks of 23 at Compton Verney on January 7th, 30 at Brandon on March 25th and 15 at Asplands Husk Coppice (Alcester) on April 19th, no other record consisted of more than ten birds. There were no subsequent records until September 16th when the first autumn migrant appeared at Wormleighton Res, while later in the month there was maxima of 16 at Draycote and 25 at Packington. Increasing numbers then filtered into the county reaching a peak in December. Maxima included 35-40 at Brandon on November 15th, 55-60 along the canal at Low- sonford on 25th, 40 at Compton Verney and 60 at Shustoke on December 8th, 60 at BAD Kineton on 11th, 61 at Earlswood on 22nd and 30 by the canal at Kingsbury WP on 27th. Worcs Breeding season records came from Bewdley, Coalpits Wood, Coldridge Wood, Callow Hill, Dowles Brook and New Parks. Very low late winter numbers, with only six double figure counts received: 30 at Upton Warren on January 14th, 70 at Bittell on 21st, 20 at Tardebigge on 22nd, ten at Lickey Hills on February 3rd, 25 at Arley Wood in February-March and 20 at Ipsley Alders on March 1 st. The autumn was better with numerous parties of up to 30, and maxima of: 50 at Kyre Pool on September 28th, 50 at Nash Elm Wood on October 61h, 115 at Stoke Bliss on November 17th, 50 at Holt on 30th, 40 at Witley Court on December 1st, 50 at Wilden on 10th and 28th, and 50-60 at Dowles Brook on 30th. Staffs Late winter counts were higher than last year, with maxima of 150 at Jack- son's Coppice on February 25th, 95 at Newborough on March 1st, 80 at Pendeford Mill NR on 6th, 100 at the Stepping Stones on Cannock Chase on 8th, and 210 at Downs Bank NR on 9th. Early winter maxima included 164 at Coombes Valley in November, 50 at Alton on 30th of the same month, 60 at Tlttesworth on December 1st, 100 in alders at Belvide on 12th, 120 at Little Wyrley again in alders on 31st, and up to 50 at Westport during the same month. Among garden records was an interesting report of a male and juvenile on peanuts in a Biddulph garden on July 14th. W Mid Fairly scarce during the early months, with maxima of 80 in Dorridge Park on January 6th, 20 in Valley Park on February 24th and 24 at Park Lime Pits on March 17th. More numerous in the autumn and early winter, with maxima of 45 at Fens Pools on September 21st (when also 20 in Sandwell Valley), up to 26 in a Dorridge garden on October 19th, 23 over Deersleap Wood on 22nd, 28 at Mushroom Green Marsh on November 24th, 40 in Sandwell Valley on December 18th and 20 in Hayhead Wood on 29th. 157

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant. Warks Apparently doing well and perhaps increasing again in much of the county, due in no small measure to the spread of oilseed rape which forms a major part of their diet during the breeding season. 79 logged on the BAD Kineton summer count was the second highest figure since the census began in 1987. A colony of 15 pairs at Ryton-on-Dunsmore GP was the largest breeding concentration reported. Late winter flocks included 60-70 feeding in game cover at Packington on February 4th and 100 at Draycote on 16th, while a flock of 130 at Fenny Compton on April 2nd had built up to 200 on 7th as summer migrants arrived. Some good autumn counts included a peak of 160 roosting in scrub near Wormleighton Res on September 3rd, 450 at Kings- bury Rifle Range on 27th, 100 at Fenny Compton on October 2nd and 200 at Draycote on 24th, with flocks of up to 80 fairly frequent. An unusual record involved 19 feeding on birch seeds in a small tree on Baddesley Common on January 28th during the cold weather. Worcs Not a great deal of breeding season information received. Several farmland localities reported three or four .pairs, but the only significant concentration was at Kempsey/Stonehall Commons where 21 pairs bred. Outside the breeding season many flocks of up to 100 were noted, including 60 at Wissetts Wood (where unusual) on January 28th. The largest counts were 300 at Wadborough on February 2nd, 115 at Lower Moor on 25th, 300 at Westmancote on March 28th, 135 at Abberton on April 19th, 270 at Ryall on September 24th, 100 at Westwood on December 2nd, 150 near Droitwich sports centre on 10th and 120 at Kinsham on 28th. A leucistic bird was at Westwood on April 19th. Staffs The largest flocks were of 100 at the Sheepwalks (Enville) on January 13th, 200 at Belvide on February 17th, 50 at Tlttesworth on 24th, 75 at Drayton Bassett on March 31st, 100 at Wilnecote on September 4th, 250 in a rapefield at Little Wyrley on 7th, 100 at Stanley on 21st and 250 at Whitemoor Hay on October 2nd. W Mid Reported in the breeding season from: Coombeswood, Lower llley, Minworth SF, Mons Hill, Netherton Hill (at least 20 pairs, but fewer than usual owing to extensive fires), Norton, Sandwell Valley, Sheldon, Sutton Park, Whitley in Coventry (three pairs in gorse) and Woodgate Valley. The largest flocks were 50 at the Dell playing field on January 9th, 50 at Dunstall Park on 13th, 24 at Marston Green on 20th, 40 on Netherton Hill on February 2nd, 47 in Brierley Hill on 24th, 35 at Lutley on April 8th, 80 in Sandwell Valley on 18th, 60 near Aldridge GC on October 2nd and 70 feeding in winter cereals at Park Lime Pits on 12th. A notable passage movement of 500 south over five hours was recorded at Fens Pools on October 1 st, where noted as usually scarce. A party of seven at Harborne NR on April 12th were the lirst there 'for many years'.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris Frequent though declining summer resident on the North Staffs Moors. Scarce and much declined winter visitor elsewhere in the northern half of the Region. 158

Worcs An immature female stayed at Kinsham from December 15th-31 st GHP et al. Staffs All reports came from the northern moorlands, But with no total census details available. Most records came from Knotbury, where there were eight on May 26th AG J, ICW and June 2nd ESC, ICW, six on July 22nd FCG, AK, DK, two on 30th NU, eight on August 10th MY and 40 on 26th ESC. There were also two at Baldstones on August 15th AH, with singles at Tittesworth on June 2nd and October 4th, followed by two on 6th and 16th PAW.

Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea cabaret Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Frequent though rapidly declining breeder, now mainly in Staffs. Warks Fairly scarce during the early months, with most in northern, western and central districts. The largest flocks were of 70-80 in fog at Great Packington on January 1st (which may have contained Mealies) and over 100 in Bentley Woods on 17th; but the only other double figure flocks were of 14 with Mealies at Yarningale Common on January 6th, 15 at Brandon on 25th, 14 at Whittleford CP on 28th and 11 in Asplands Husk Coppice (near Alcester) on April 19th. There were then no records between this date and September 30th when 70 were reported from BAD Kineton; but subsequently it was again very scarce, with the largest parties of 24 at Wood End (Atherslone) on November 24th, 16 at Fenny Compton on 27th and ten at Ladywalk on December 15th. Worcs An excellent winter for the species, with numerous flocks of up to 20 reported. Larger counts were 22 over Oddingley on January 9th, very big numbers throughout January-February in the Dowles Brook area of the Wyre Forest peaking at an estimated 250 on January 15th, 40 at Bewdley on 17th and 33 at Westwood on 31st. Arley Wood could claim 100 on February 3rd, with 30 still there on April 30th. There were 250 at Habberley Valley and 25 at Seckley Wood on February 10th, 60 at Callow Hill on March 9th, 50 at Monk Wood on 23rd, 30 near Hagley Hall on 29th and 30 at Stour Hill on April 20th. Only one May record was received; 24 at Arley Wood on 4th. In a very poor autumn the only double figure counts were 12 at Upton Warren on October 21st and 25 at Holt from November 30th-December 1st. Staffs Monthly maxima at Westport:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Ocl Nov Dec 6 70 80 50 4 1 1 11 30 8 20 6

The only breeding report referred to a pair at Westport. Good numbers present during the early months, though some flocks were no doubt boosted by uncounted numbers of Mealies. The best records were of 100 at Dimmingsdale on January 21st, 100 at Highgate Common on Feb- ruary 4th and 80 at Kinver Edge on March 13th. A flock on Cannock Chase increased from 100 in January-February to 300 on March 2nd, with 150 still present on 16th. Autumn records were scarce, and apart from 100 at Aqualate on November 1st, referred to small numbers only. W Mid The only breeding season record was of one over Sandwell Valley on June 27th. The largest late winter flocks comprised maxima of 60 in a Four Oaks 159

garden and in a Streetly wood on January 6th, 30 in Sandwell Valley on 13th, ten at Sheepwash UP on February 24th, and up to 150 in Sutton Park from late January-late March. The latter flock probably included many Mealies, though due to the elusive nature of the flock no racial determination was usually possible. Spring concentrations included ten near Shirley station on March 10th, 29 on Netherton Hill on 18th, ten at Stubber's Green on April 2nd and 15 still in Sutton Park on 5th. Only small numbers appeared in autumn, including 20 at Fens Pools on October 1st, up to 12 in a Dorridge garden on 20th and 26th, ten at Coundon Court School on November 13th, 15 in Sandwell Valley on December 15th, 12 in a Fordhouses garden on 23rd and 31st, seven along Harborne Walkway on 28th and ten in a Four Oaks garden on 30th.

Mealy Redpoll C. f. flammea Rare and erratic winter visitor (7/10). A phenomenal national invasion which reached the Region towards the end of 1995 peaked during February-March. Numbers were on a scale never before recorded and were hard to estimate, but at least 750 must have occurred. However large areas of suitable woodland were left unvisited by observers and so this total literally must have been the tip of an iceberg. Warks There were records of one with Siskins at Great Packington on January 3rd NPB, 26 at Yarningale Common on 6th JJB, up to three at Brandon on 14th- 15th BMCG, five at Baddesley Common on 28th JJB and up to 44 in Ryton Wood on February 15th-16th JJB, CHP Worcs The invasion of the previous autumn really gained momentum during the early months of the year. Accurately judging the proportion of Mealies to British race Lessers in some of the larger flocks was almost impossible. Birds were present at Arley Wood from the beginning of January until at least April 13th, with a peak of 30 on February 3rd JE, REH, SM, GHP, DJS. Meanwhile, numbers in the Lodge Hill Farm area near Dowles Brook were assessed at 150 by January 15th, gradually decreasing until the last birds were seen on February 15th REH, GHP, AW, SMW et al. One was at Wythall Meadow on January 14th REH, AIH and up to 12 at Westwood from 27th-February 4th SMW et al. A party of 12 at Callow Hill on January 28th may well have been different to those elsewhere in the Wyre Forest, and by March 9th only one remained REH, INR. Singles were at Wadborough on February 2nd GHP and Yeald Wood on 4th GHP, while there was a large flock at Habberley Valley on 8th with up to 120 present until March 24th REH, GHP, SMW. A group of five was at Lower Moor on February 11th GHP. Lingering into April were two at Upton Warren on 9th TMH and three at Stour Hill on 20th SM. Staffs Half-monthly maxima at main sites: Jan Feb Mar Apr Chasewater 3 0 0 0 30 60 0 0 Cannock Chase 0 0 0 20 200 100 0 0 Westporl S 0 0 36 20 50 12 0 A small influx on January 13th was followed by the main one beginning on February 17th, with birds remaining until April 2nd. Maxima in the three main 160

areas were 200 by the Stepping Stones on Cannock Chase on March 2nd PDH, 60 at Chasewater on 24th GIG, PDH and 50 at Westport on 27th WJL Elsewhere, five remained at Tittesworth from January 1 st-February 25th PAW et al. W Mid Several were in a Streetly Wood with a Redpoll flock on at least January 6th ISS. A single bird was at Sheepwash UP on January 10th, followed by three there on 16th, February 3rd and March 2nd AGW. Several were identified in the large Redpoll flock in Sutton Park on March 23rd PMH, together with a bird which the observer believed was an Arctic Redpoll, but views were brief and it was frustratingly not re-located. The final record was of a bird at Doulton's Clay Pit, Saltwells on April 16th CJT.

Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni Very rare vagrant (1/10). Following the first ever records in December 1995, the unprecedented national invasion brought at least another dozen to the Region during the early months, usually in company with Mealies. The final total was probably only a fraction of the true figure however, as first-winters are easily overlooked and only well described birds tend to pass the BBRC. Other suspected or unconfirmed records came from all four counties during this period. Worcs Up to four were around Lodge Hill Farm in the Wyre Forest from January 14th-26th, included an adult male for probably the whole period FH, JKH, REH, EGP, AW, SMW etal. The first county records. Staffs The bird at Tittesworth first seen in December 1995 (see below) stayed until January 5th BH, JO, PAW. In February, the Stepping Stones area of Cannock Chase attracted an adult on 16th-17th JKH, PDH, SJTetai, 20th PF, JVG, JKH and from March 7th-11th JKH, TH et al., with a first-winter on March 8th PDH. Westport had an adult male and a first-winter from February 22nd-25th, with one or the other up to 28th, two first-winters on March 11th with one until 13th, and an adult from 21st-28th WJL et al. Finally, two were seen at Chasewater on March 23rd and one on 24th GE, ICW, MY. 1995 Addenda Staffs One at Tittesworth from December 10th-31st BH, JO, PAW stayed into 1996 (see above), and becomes the first Regional record. Other singles were seen at Rudyard on December 17th ABr and Newborough on 24th and 28th DIMW, the latter a first-winter bird. Arctic Redpoll (Phil Jones) 161

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent though variable eruptive visitor. Scarce erratic breeder. The poorest showing since 1978. Warks Two flew low over Somers Wood moving south on September 14th. Staffs Singles at Cannock Chase on January 4th and March 2nd (a male), and two at Maer on August 2nd were the only records. 1985 Addendum Worcs 16 at Bredon Hill on October 19th.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Warks The population was thought to be relatively stable in the south-east of the county, while 17 on the BAD Kineton census was back to average after a low count in 1995. The largest parties were of 12 in Oakley Wood on January 31st and 11 at Wormleighton Res on March 3rd, with ten there on October 1st. Worcs Breeding season records from 16 localities. Breeding bird survey information from Shortwood Roughs, Southcrest and Webheath suggested a stable situation or possibly a slight upturn; though only one-two pairs were present at each site. Several reports of small parties, but the only double figure count was ten at Trench Wood on February 25th. Considered scarcer than usual in Happy Valley SMW. Staffs Six pairs bred in Coombes Valley, one up on 1994-5. Reported from a further 18 sites, with 11 at Chasewater on February 12th the largest party. Otherwise six at both Chillington on January 7th and Westport on December 28th were the next best counts. WMid Reports came from 23 localities, of which 15 refer to the breeding season, including four pairs at Harborne NR, two on Mons Hill CBC (cf. three in 1995), at least five in Saltwells Wood and three in Woodgate Valley. On November 11th 'large numbers' were reported in Sandwell Valley, including several parties of up to ten. An aberrant at Fens Pools from October 26th to the end of the year was thought to be a male with a white crown and pale mono- chrome plumage.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Uncommon and declining resident. Warks One on the southern outskirts of Coventry at Burton Green on November 11th was the only record. Worcs A tough year for finding this species. The only records concerned one in the Wyre Forest on January 26th, two in a Guarlford garden on August 12th, one in a copse near Bredon on October 24th which eventually flew off towards Kemerton, and at least two at Chase End Hill on November 17th-18th.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (3/10). The third county record, with previous birds at Acocks Green in October 1904 and Bartley in January 1979. 162

W Mid Two calling in flight over Forge Mill Lake in Sandwell Valley on October 1st PMH.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. An excellent showing after several poor winters, with the three Malvern birds on September 29th being the earliest ever arrival in the Region; the previous earliest was on October 7th 1990 in the same area. Warks Single males were at Draycote on October 28th CHP and on Napton Hill from November 10th-12th JJB, CHP, JW. The latter spent much time feeding on the gravel drive of a private garden by the windmill! Worcs A good run of birds on the Malverns began with three on North Hill and Worcs Beacon on September 29th and four there on October 1st, with one still present on 5th AM, SMW et al. A male then appeared on Worcs Beacon on November 2nd MJI, SMWetai., with a pair from 8th-13th, numbers rising to four on 14th and eight on 15th, but dropping to two on 16th CGr, MP et al. Staffs An immature male at Blithfield on October 6th-7th ESC et al., with an immature female at Westport on 9th WJL

Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos Very rare vagrant (0/10). Proving once again that even ~ ~. . *'• the scarcest passerine can find its way to the Midlands, this was not only the 34th record for _ ^^fsCvV L the British Isles but also a Vvv&'iv^r-- ''Si'. Regional first. Very much the eastern Asian version of the Yellowhammer, ththe IliPPp'® two species overlap over ; ^ • • - a large area of central Asia -••• '"l^rhW: between the Urals and Lake Baikal and regularly

interbreed in peripheral zones, •.••••. yfi/.t^f^^^^ /Iv. .v making it imperative that any .: V suspected examples « should be thoroughly " ® inspected for traces of : yellow in the plumage. It is more migratory than the Pine Bunting (Phil Jones) Yellowhammer, with most of the population wintering in northern China and the north-westerly part of the Indian subcontinent. Worcs An adult male pleased the crowds at Bibby's Hollow, near Halesowen from February 6th-20th PC, CRd, SMW et al. The bird made occasional visits to a 163

feeding station popular with Yellowhammers and its appearances seemed to be influenced by spells of cold weather.

Ycllowhammcr Emboriza citrinclla Very common though declining resident. Warks Still numerous as a farmland breeding species in much of the south, eg. an average of 11 singing males per 1km2 around Fenny Compton. However there are signs of some local decline. At BAD Kineton only 37 were logged on the summer count which at more than 50% below average represented the lowest figure since the count began in 1987. Perhaps as a result of the cold weather, more good-sized non-breeding flocks were reported than recently, including maxima of 100 at Fenny Compton on February 1st, 50 at Priors Marston on 11th, 70 at llmington on March 10th, 50 at Chesterton on 15th, 85 near Wormleighton Res on 18th and 50 at Alvecote on April 28th. Later in the year there were 70 at Radway on October 13th, a peak of 90 at Fenny Compton on December 8th and 55 at Chesterton on 23rd. Worcs Breeding season records suggested that the population remained fairly stable. Five pairs at Alfrick, four at North Piddle and 12 around Tlmberhonger were all similar to the 1995 situation, but two pairs at Webheath represented a return to form after none the previous year. The highest counts of singing males were eight at Castlemorton Common, nine on Kempsey/Stonehall Commons and 19 on Old Hills Common. An unusual record concerned a singing male competing with construction site noise in Kidderminster town centre on March 22nd. The largest non-breeding flocks reported were 130 at Stoke Bliss on January 21st, 60 at Bibby's Hollow on February 7th and 50 at Upton Warren on 17th. Staffs Widely reported, with the largest flocks being 20 at Prestwood on March 18th, 50 at Drayton Bassett on 31st and 50 at Little Wyrley on December 22nd. W Mid More breeding season records this year, with territories at: Barr Beacon/Barr Common area, Berkswell GP, Cuckoo's Nook, Dorridge/Hockley Heath/Pack- wood area (up to 12 heard from public footpaths), llley area (eight), Marston Green, Park Lime Pits (eight, cf. three in 1995), Pelsall North Common, Sand- well Valley (over ten), Streetly (one-two) and Sutton Park. Winter flocks were generally small, with peak counts of only 20 in December at Streetly, Valley Park and Wishaw Lane.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though perhaps declining resident. Warks Seemingly stable in most areas, though there was a drop of more than 50% at BAD Kineton (where only eight counted, cf. 21 in 1995) and a total absence was reported from Lillington. Reported from 37 localities in the breeding season with most reports of up to three pairs, but with seven at Lighthorne Quarry, six-seven at Alvecote, six at Fenny Compton (mainly in beanfields) and Radford Semele, five along the R.Avon from Bidford-Marlcliff and at Ryton-on-Dunsmore GP; with four at Chesterton, Draycote and Wormleighton Res. Up to 30 visited the Ladywalk feeders in spring, while the largest winter 164

flocks were of around 20: in maize at Maxstoke on January 27th, in stubble at Grandborough on November 30th and at Fisher's Mill (Middleton) on December 9th. Worcs Breeding season records from: Ashmoor Common, Castlemorton Common, Ipsley Alders, Kinsham, Lower Moor, Romsley, Shortwood Roughs, Stren- sham, along the Worcester Canal near Tibberton, Timberhonger and Upton Warren. Modest winter concentrations included 30 at Lower Moor on January 27th, 22 at Throckmorton on March 31st and 35 at the Upton Warren feeding stations on December 26th. Staffs Reports came from 16 sites, with maxima of 17 at Drayton Bassett on March 31st, 20 at Belvide on April 7th and 30 at Croxall on December 29th. At Betley Mere CES the ratio between adults and juveniles trapped dropped to 1:0.14 compared to a steady 1:0.4 over the last ten years. WMid Breeding season territories at: Meriden GP, Minworth SF (five-six, cf. 14 in 1994), Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits (four on CBC, with two more in a small marsh beside Lime Pits Farm), Pelsall North Common, Saltwells NR, Sandwell Valley, Stubber's Green, Valley Park area (four-five) and Wood- gate Valley (two-three). The largest winter assemblies were 23 in Sand- well Valley on February 7th and at least 40 off Wishaw Lane on December 1st. Among several garden records were an impressive series from an observer in south Walsall, who had regular records from January-March 17th (max. eight) and again from November 21st to the year's end (max. four).

Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra Fairly common, but recently declining, resident. Warks The largest concentation of singing males reported was six, at both Fenny Compton (where two nests were successful in beanfields) and Wasperton. Other breeding season reports were mainly from traditional areas, including Alvecote, Ansty, Bulkington, Charlecote, Coombe Fields, Hampton Lucy, Long Itchington, Marlcliff, Marton (several successful nests), Middleton, Nether Whitacre, Oxhill, Priors Marston, Wellesbourne, Wishaw and Worm- leighton. Outside the breeding season, the largest assembly was at the Eathorpe roost which held 90 in January, 75 (of which ten were trapped and ringed) on February 2nd and 86 on March 12th. Smaller flocks included eight at Dosthill on March 2nd, 15 at Wishaw on 24th, 25 at Charlecote on April 21st, 20 at Chesterton on October 18th, 24 at Marlcliff on November 30th and at least ten coming for seed in a Southam garden with finches and Yellow- hammers on December 14th. Worcs Reported as absent in the breeding season at Caunsall where two sang in 1994, and in the Churchill/lsmere area, where up to seven sang a decade ago. Singing males at: Bickmarsh (four), Bishampton, Bredon's Hardwick, Kempsey (three), Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Naunton Beauchamp, Offenham, Overbury, Peopleton (three), Ryall, Saxons Lode, Shenstone (three), Shorthorn Wood, Throckmorton, Torton, Upton-on-Severn and Wyre Piddle. Outside the breeding season most records were of just a handful of 165

birds, though there were flocks of 35 on set-aside at Larford on January 1st, 45 at Throckmorton on February 1st, 25 in brassicas at Wyre Piddle on August 15th and 40 back at Throckmorton from October-December. Staffs Breeding season records from: Blithfield, Crossplains, Fradley, Hixon, Hollies Common, Lichfield, Mucklestone, Pasford, Pattingham, Seighford (two pairs deserted a traditional area due to glider activity), Smestow, Swindon and Trysull. Small numbers outside the breeding season also at Chasewater, Drayton Bassett and Whitemoor Hay, with 60 at Huddlesford on March 20th. W Mid There were five singing males at Pedmore on July 16th and three males in the Norton area on 17th. Also present in the breeding season as usual in the Wiggins Hill Road/Wishaw Lane area, but no specific counts received.

Exotica The sequence followed and the nomenclature used in this section is mainly 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. Staffs Two at Meretown Pool, Forton on February 22nd.

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 January 5th and one at Walsall Arboretum on February 3rd.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indica (D4) Breeds on high plateaux in central and southern Asia, wintering mainly in northern India. Warks A single bird visited BAD Kineton and Chesterton on April 21st, with another at Seeswood Pool on dates from July 3rd-August 18th. Worcs Three over Kinsham on March 15th, wilh another there from August 7th-10th. Perhaps the same bird visited Pirton on June 14th and July 21st. Staffs Two in Trentham Park on January 10th and April 11th, with probably the same birds at Westport on April 1st. A single bird was at Doxey on August 26th and October 7th and 9th. W Mid A single bird flew north-east over Dunstall Park, in company with Canada Geese, on February 10th.

Ross's Goose Anser rossii Breeds on tundra of central Arctic Canada, wintering in western USA and Texas. 166

Worcs A bird at Bredon's Hardwick on October 26th moved to Bishampton Vale Pool on 31st, and then was at Lower Moor for much of November, ending up at Throckmorton on December 1 st. Staffs One at Kings Bromley on January 21st, February 18th and March 10th.

Paradise Shelduck Tadorna variegata Coastal and inland waters in New Zealand. Warks A male at Middleton on May 5th (in addition to a Ruddy Shelduck and a hybrid Shelduck also present) was thought to have been this species but may have nad some hybrid blood. Staffs The above male was also seen over the Staffs border at Drayton Bassett on May 5th, with probably the same bird at Blithfield from September 29th- December 15th.

Ringed Teal Callonetta leucophrys Forest pools in southern South America. Staffs The long-staying female was still at Chasewater on January 29th.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa (D4) Forested woodlands in North America. Staffs A very wary bird at Westport on March 12th, with another at Barton GP on June 16th and a male at Alton Towers on August 14th.

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea Coastal wetlands of southern and eastern Australia. Worcs One at Upton Warren from July 21st-26th

White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis Mainly coastal wetlands in the West Indies, parts of South America and the Galapogos Islands. Worcs A single bird at Westwood on May 1st and Upton Warren on June 3rd. Staffs One at Blithfield from April 27th-May 19th and again on August 6th.

Lanner Falco biarmicus Arid open country in Africa, south-east Europe and the Middle East. Worcs A female reported over Broadway on October 1 st.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita Forests and lightly-wooded land in northern and eastern Australia. W Mid One at Sheepwash UP on August 3rd. A bird has apparently been seen in this area almost annually for the last ten years.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Open habitats throughout the interior of Australia. Worcs One at Westwood on August 3rd-4th. 167

Staffs Singles at Westport on July 27th, September 1st and November 3rd. WMid One was chased by a Peregrine in the Wishaw Lane area on October 12th.

Yellow-crowned Amazon Amazona ochrocephaia Forests in Mexico, and in Central and northern South America. Worcs One at Frankley on August 3rd, was apparently of the yellow-headed Mexican race oratrix.

Parakeet sp. Worcs Up to three in Evesham during December. W Mid A large green parakeet flew low over a back garden in Norton Lane, Earls- wood on December 30th.

Grey-headed Gull Larus cirrocephalus Widespread in South America and Africa south of the Sahara. Worcs An adult was at Bredon's Hardwick from April 5th-13th. A bird, presumably the same one, was later present at Middleton Moor (Derbys) during July- August.

Red-billed Leiothrix (Pekin Robin) Leiothrix lutea Mountain forests from the western Himalayas through northern south-east Asia to south China. Warks A pair frequented some gardens in Southam from April 1st-7th at least.

Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis Open scrubby habitats and gardens from southern Mexico south to southern Argentina. Worcs One photographed on a bird-table at Finstall was present for two weeks during early February, with presumably the same bird near Upton Warren from 15th-22nd.

Zebra Finch Poephila guttata Open habitats throughout the interior of Australia and in the Lesser Sunda Islands. Worcs One at North Hill, Malvern on October 23rd. 168

Short Notes Baird's Sandpiper at Draycote - a new wader for the Region On the morning of September 28th 1996 after almost completing a full circuit of Draycote Water without noting anything new, I decided to spend some time watching a party of small waders feeding along the muddy shoreline of the western side. They at first appeared to comprise just Ringed Plovers, Dunlins and Little Stints, but on working my way through the group I came across an odd wader which was in size someway between Dunlin and Little Stint and markedly elongated in shape. As I watched I was struck by the similarity between this bird and a photograph in my possession of a juvenile Baird's Sandpiper taken at Eyebrook Reservoir (Leicestershire) in 1994. After checking the obvious features, and observing it flying for a short distance and noting the absence of a white rump, I was happy with the identification of this bird as a juvenile Baird's Sandpiper. Keeping an eye on the bird I started frantically phoning around for some back up. John Judge was at home and agreed gallantly to get out of bed and come and have a look! Turning my attention back to the bird my stress levels were further increased as I realised it had disappeared whilst I had been on the phone to John, though luckily I soon managed to relocate it and keep tags on it until he appeared. Watching the bird at the relatively close distance of 40m John soon agreed with my identification, but we were keen to try and get more witnesses. The next person we managed to get on the phone was Tim Marlow, who on arriving also concurred with us, and following this we put it out on the national birdline.

A small rather dumpy wader In-between Dunlin and Little Stint in size, distinguished even at long distances by an elongated and flat profile created by long primaries projecting well beyond the tail and short legs. I he upperparts were brownish-grey in colour and appearing very scaly, due to most of the leathers on the mantle, scapulars, lertials and coverts being fringed with neat whitish edges, with these replaced by buff fringes on some of the scapulars and lesser coverts. The head and breast were buffish-brown, with the latter finishing quite abruptly and thus contrasting strongly with the white belly, flanks and vent. It had a pale supercilium meeting above the ralher short straight black bill and dark lores, with a white chin and throat. The legs were black and rather short. In flight it showed ralher long dark primaries, a narrow pale wing-bar, and a brown-centred rump with white edges. The call was Dunlin-like, but slower and weaker. The bird continued to feed along the muddy shoreline around Biggin Bay and Lin Toft Point for the rest of the day during which time it was seen by very many observers, although frustratingly it occasionally flew out to feed on thick mats of floating algae in the centre of the reservoir. Although still present at dusk it could not be relocated the following day, but what presumably was the same bird was found at Daventry Reservoir in nearby Northants that morning, where it stayed until October 2nd. The bird was the first county and Regional record and interestingly appeared following strong westerly winds which had dominated the weather charts since the 25th. Carl Baggott

The Sandwell Valley 'Black-headed' Wagtail At about 1100 hrs on April 18th 1996, a day of cool cloudy conditions with a strong north- easterly wind, I received a telephone call from a very excited Pete Hackett informing me that he had found what he believed to be a male Black-headed Wagtail (Motacilla flava feldegg) at Forge Mill Lake in Sandwell Valley. I lost no time in grabbing 'bins' and 169

'scope, jumped in the car and made the short five minute journey to the lake where I met up with Pete. He explained how he had found the bird loosely consorting with about ten Yellow Wagtails (M. f. flavissima), but the whole party had been highly mobile and skittish and he had lost contact with them for the time being. Aware of the problems with identification of Black-headed and dark-headed examples of Grey-headed (M. f. thunbergi) Wagtail, I asked him about how sure he was; he was adamant it was Black- headed, so we began to search in earnest, being joined later by Dave Saunders. There was no sign of the bird around the lake amongst the few flighty Yellow Wagtails still present and so we decided to split up, with Pete and I checking the nearby fields of Forge Mill Farm and Dave going back to search the northern end of the lake. After ten minutes or so we heard Dave shouting that he had found the bird, so we both dashed back to join him. Dave had his 'scope trained on the bird, so after grabbing a quick look I put my own one on it. The bird was very flighty and quite wary, and this was not helped by disturbance from dog-walkers and casual passers-by, but we eventually got good views allowing some hurried note-taking to be done. After thirty minutes of observation the bird was lost to view, and although not 100% convinced of its identification due partly to lack of experience with this subspecies, I was reasonably sure that it was Black- headed. We therefore agreed to meet later at the RSPB centre after consulting available literature, and following further discussion we put the news out on the birdlines. I saw the bird again later that afternoon, this time in company with Pete Newman, and viewed the bird in deteriorating weather down to 30m range. The now driving rain had made the bird rather bedraggled, but nevertheless Pete pointed out that there was some very fine grey flecking on the rear of the otherwise black crown, which would point towards thunbergi. Other observers, including Steve Whitehouse, however were still convinced that it was feldegg.

Very similar in size and structure (o M. f. flavissima, with olive-green mantle and rump possibly slightly darker than that subspecies. Blackish wings with two obvious white wing bars and black tail with white outer tail feathers. Clean yellow throat and underpays including vent and undertail coverts. The forehead, crown, nape and ear-coverts were black in colour (similar in shade to Willow Tit), with a very small amount of grey flecking on the nape and rear crown area only discernible at close range through a telescope, as were two very faint loral marks. The black crown came down to a small point just below the eye and also merged into the nape. Bare parts and eyes were black. The call note was to my ears very similar to flavissima, though several observers thought it was stronger and more explosive lhan that subspecies. The bird was still present the next day, though still very flighty and no easier to see. However it was twitched by a small number of birders from further afield. Following submission to the BBRC it was accepted not as Black-headed, but as a very dark-headed Grey-headed Wagtail, nonetheless also a first for the Region. Tim Hextell (True examples of feldegg are slightly larger and longer-billed than other races and can be distinguished by having a full glossy black hood with no traces of any other colour present. Grey-headed usually have black cheeks and a grey crown and nape but some examples have a full black hood. The white moustachial stripes usually illustrated for Grey-headed, which seperate the crown from the yellow throat are very variable and often lacking altogether, as with the above bird. The call of Black-headed is much stronger and 'buzzier' than Yellow and once learned is very distinctive. Grey-headed has a slightly stronger call than yellow but is indistinguishable to many observers - Ed.) 170

The Doxey River Warbler - a Regional first

River Warbler (Phil Jones)

On the evening of June 20th 1996 I visited Doxey Marshes, Stafford, mainly to look for Grasshopper Warblers. After two hours and only hearing two short bursts of Grass- hopper Warbler song, I heard a very faint but seemingly very familiar song coming from some distance away. When the bird stopped I managed to walk about 200m towards the source of the song, which was in a large nettlebed about 4-5m from the main track, before it started again; this time at very close range but still unseen. It was clearly a River Warbler, a bird which I had seen the previous summer at Scotman's Flash near Wigan. The bird continued to sing almost continuously now but frustratingly I still could not see it, and the light was beginning to go! It was now 2100 hrs and with the absence of other observers, I decided to ring 'Rare Bird Alert' on my mobile. The first birders arrived within half an hour by which time the bird was showing well at about 5m range. In general size and shape very similar to Savi's Warbler, with very broad rounded tail, curved and round- tipped primaries and very long under-tail coverts reaching three-quarters of the way to the tail tip. Unstreaked grey-brown upperparts, with slightly darker tail. Outer-most web of outer primaries edged with white. Off-white underparts, with the breast being heavily streaked with grey-brown. Indistinct narrow supercilium, looking more prominant at long range. Large dark eye. Dark horn-coloured bill, with paler 171

area at base. Milky coffee-coloured legs. The song was a repetitive rhythmic reeling like an old-fashioned sewing machine, with an electric hissing quality. At close range, a rasping or grating sound was sometimes heard as a prelude to the main song. Although on the first evening the bird sang from a nettlebed, on subsequent days the bird mainly frequented an isolated hawthorn about 40m from the main track, although occasionally coming to an Ash sapling right beside it where it gave amazingly close views. The song was often very prolonged and one particular burst was timed at over three minutes. When singing it frequently stood on one leg (although not necessarily the same onel), while on ceasing it was often seen to drop head first into cover, presumably to feed. It was frequently driven away from its favoured hawthorn by a pair of territorial Sedge Warblers, and when returning was often watched creeping up gradually from the base of the bush. The bird, which was the first for the Region, remained at Doxey until July 22nd, during which period it was seen by well over a thousand observers. Anthony Butter (The bird was wearing a BTO style ring on its right leg and the real possibility was raised that it was the Scotman's Flash bird returning to Britain for a second summer - Ed.)

Dusky Warbler at Sheepwash UP - a new bird for the Region Around dawn on the morning of November 16th 1996 I was doing my usual rounds of Sheepwash Urban Park, Tipton; it was 0815 hrs and still rather cool and misty. I was standing on the spit of the main pool (known as Pump House Pool) when I heard a loud call coming from some bushes very close to me, which could be transcribed as "dik", rather similar to a Lesser Whitethroat. The bird continued to call at regular intervals allowing me to locate it as it restlessly moved low through the bushes or hopped across the ground. I was surprised to find that rather being a Sylvia warbler it looked very much like a Chiffchaff, one of which was still present in the park, except for possessing a long dull supercilium. This combined with the entirely different call strongly suggested Dusky Warbler, a bird that had never before been seen in the Midlands. After viewing it for another ten minutes or so it suddenly flew off about 100m and disappeared into some more bushes, where although I heard it calling once or twice I couldn't pin it down. After the arrival of Dave Waite, who after hearing the news of course thought I was joking or had been hallucinating, a further three hours was spent searching the area but with no success. I decided to go home and check with Paul Docherty's video The Birds of Britain and Europe'. As soon as I saw and heard the section on Dusky Warbler I knew for certain that was what I had seen, and I immediately alerted the two Midland Birdlines and the birders at the RSPB reserve in Sandwell Valley. Later that day I was pleased to hear that Steve Whitehouse had managed to refind the bird and confirmed my identification. It was subsequently accepted by BBRC and was the first for the Region.

Size of Chiffchaff but slightly plumper. Uniformly brown upper parts and dirty grey underparts, slightly tinged brown. The vent area was whiter but still with a brownish tinge. The most obvious feature was the long dull rusty-brown supercilium which widened towards the rear and was slightly whiter in front of the 172

eye. The legs were pale brown. The call was a regular 'dik' or "dik-dik", similar to Lesser Whitethroat and slightly higher pitchod than naddo'o Warblor. The bird nearly always remained near water in low bushes but occasionally hopped on the ground, and its restless nature made it often very hard to observe. It remained in the park, usually at John's Lane Pool, for another couple of days during which time it was seen by well over a hundred observers, being last seen on the afternoon of the 18th when it performed well in bright sunshine on the pool's islands. A few inches of snow fell on the morning of the 19th which may have caused the bird to move on. Geoff Williams

Ringing in 1996 Ringing in 1996 provided a number of interesting recoveries for a variety of species and has enhanced our knowledge of birds in the West Midland Bird Club area. Large birds like the Cormorant, Grey Heron, Canada Goose and Mute Swan continue to enjoy a prominent place in the West Midlands avifauna and most achieved a high productivity of young during the year. Mute Swans in particular produced a record number of young, over 300 cygnets being ringed in the Staffordshire study area alone. All four species are represented in the list of recoveries which illustrate important aspects of their biology. The Grey Heron recovery is clearly an example of dispersal from the natal site, while the Mute Swan records illustrate the link between the Midlands and Wales. The Cormorant data has been obtained as a result of colour ringing birds at Abberton Reservoir, Essex and shows a regular winter movement of a breeding bird to Blithfield Reservoir. This bird bred at Abberton in both 1995 and 1996. Large birds also tend to be long lived and the Canada Goose recoveries illustrate this well, with ages 16.7 and 11.5 years being recorded. Gull recoveries continue to provide long distance movements, with a Black-headed Gull and a Lesser Black-backed Gull to the Netherlands and a Black-headed Gull from the Netherlands to Chasewater. Ringing totals sent in by individual ringers and the ringing secretaries of the various ringing groups within the Region show a good number of hirundines ringed in 1996. A high percentage of the recoveries for Sand Martins ringed in previous years clearly shows the link with Icklesham in Sussex. The same applies to many of the 1996 Reed Warbler recoveries, while the Swallow in Spain shows a young bird returning to Europe after its first winter in Africa. Site fidelity is an interesting phenomenon and is well shown in the Marsh Warbler records where both birds were ringed as nestlings and then recaught on their natal site five years later. It is also fascinating to speculate whether the eight plus year old Nightingale at Gadbury Bank in Worcestershire was actually hatched there. We can also speculate about the Redwing recovery in Portugal. Redwings are notoriously unfaithful to their wintering quarters and there are a number of scenarios which might account for this movement. First, was this juvenile bird originally ringed as a passage migrant, caught here as it refuelled on its way elsewhere - even to Portugal, or did it stay with us over the winter that year ? Did it move directly to Portugal in the autumn of 1995 without coming here and what happened to it in the in-between years. Siskins are small finches weighing between 11 and 16 grammes and yet they make 173

colossal journeys between their breeding and wintering sites. Journeys of 450-550 km are not that unusual, but the Scandinavian birds from Norway and Sweden each travelling over 1000 km to Sutton Coldfield are exceptional. Equally exceptional is the 70 km movement of the Blue Tit - they are normally short lived and very parochial. Ducks are not often caught in the Midlands and there is a great deal of information to be obtained from ringing the West Midlands population. Wigeon are perhaps the only species consistently ringed in the Region and they provide a wealth of information. The single catch of Wigeon at Bredon's Hardwick in March 1996 just before they left our shores, produced four excellent recoveries the following winter, including two from France and one from Foulness in Essex - clearly birds returning to overwinter here - but were they destined for the Midlands. Similarly the bird in Dyfed in December could have passed through the Midlands on its way. This is the value of ringing Wigeon, the overall migration routes may already be mapped but little is known about their movements once they have arrived in this country. I would like to express my sincere thanks to Messers P. Bache, J. Cameron, D. Clifton, T. Clifton, J. T. Coleman, F. C. Gribble, C. Griffiths, J R Hodson (Ringing Secretary of the Wychavon Ringing Group), P. Ireland, J. A. Lawrence, W. J. Low, R. Skeates and S. Watchorn, 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 1996 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 at Ringing: Sex: Pull Pullus (nestling) M Male Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) F Female 1Y Bird in its first year Manner of Recovery: 2Y Bird in its second year v Caught and released with ring Ad . Adult (at least one year old) + Shot oror killedkilled 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

Cormorant L07645 16/05/93 Abberton Reservoir (Essex) GE w 27/10/93 Blithfield Reservoir (Staffs) w 02/05/94 Abberton Reservoir w 17/09/94 Blithfield Reservoir 174

Species Ringer Ring No. Agp/Spv natfi PlRce Movem

w 05/04/95 Abberton Reservoir w 01/07/95 Hanninglield Reservoir (Essex) w 13/04/96 Abberton Reservoir w 08/09/96 Blrthfield Reservoir w 05/10/96 Blithfield Reservoir

Grey Heron 1287015 Pull 08/04/96 Budworth Mere (Cheshire) MRG X 17/07/96 Gailey Reservoir (Staffs) 72km

Mute Swan Z77722 1Y 13/01/93 Evesham (Worcs) WRG X 17/05/96 Caersws (Powys) 112km

U8019 ly 03/01/96 Worcester (Worcs) WRG V 27/10/96 Llandrindod Wells (Powys) 80km

Z75532 1Y 25/01/92 Worcester (Worcs) WRG V 25/11/96 Bumaston (Derbys) 88km

U6772 1Y F 28/07/96 Aber Ogwen (Gwynedd) AS w 29/09/96 Westport Lake (Staffs) 125km

Canada Goose 5122678 Fg 07/07/84 Attenborough (Notts) JM w 05/02/96 Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) 49km

L02011 Pull 30/06/79 Wolverhampton (Staffs) NJS w 13/03/96 Sandwell Valley (W Mids) 9km

FPAw 01/07/95 Beauly Rrth (Inverness) MAFF w 12/06/96 Branston (Staffs) 552km

5178382 AdM 01/07/95 Beauly Firth (Inverness) MAFF w 08/08/96 Branston (Stalfs) 552km

HSF w 05/07/95 RniithwaitR Reservoir (N Yorks) MAFF w 01/03/96 Gouthwaite Reservoir 13/08/96 Smethwick (W Mids) 160 km

DUIw 01/07/95 Beauly Firth (Inverness) MAFF w 01/09/96 Branston (Staffs) 552km

Wigeon FA30388 1YM 03/03/96 Bredon's Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 10/11/96 Vendee, France 636km

FA76948 AdM 03/03/96 Bredon's Hardwick (Worcs) WRG X 25/11/96 Foulness (Essex) 248km FA76822 Ad M 03/03/96 Bredon's Hardwick (Worcs) WRG X 02/12/96 Gironde, France 755km

FA76900 1YF 03/03/96 Bredon's Hardwick (Worcs) WRG X 11/12/96 Cleddau Estuary (Dyfed) 191km

Teal ES86978 1YM 24/09/95 Slimbridge (Glos) wwr V 03/03/96 Bredon's Hardwick (Worcs) 36km 175

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

Black-hoadcd Gull EK56160 Ad 04/01/86 Majors Green (Worcs) PI V 11/09/95 Wood Green Reservoir (Glr. London) 149km

EK56070 1Y 04/01/86 Majors Green (Worcs) PI V 07/01/95 Wood Green Reservoir (Glr. London) 149km V 06/11/95 Wood Green Reservoir V 07/02/96 Wood Green Reservoir

AA0718 Juv 26/03/96 Svanemollebugten, Copenhagen, Denmark w 18/10/96 Chasewater (Staffs)

EN91034 1Y 17/01/87 Majors Green (Worcs) PI w 15/06/89 Ankerplaats, Vlleland, Netherlands w 26/03/93 Groningen, Netherlands w 03/04/96 Groningen, Netherlands

Lesser Black-backed Gull GF42005 Pull 03/07/94 Trawsfynydd (Gwynedd) IS w 02/03/96 Sutton Park (W Mlds)

GJ90666 Juv 06/08/89 Diglis (Worcs) WRG V 25/07/94 Wieringermeer, Netherlands 500km V 07/10/96 Hempsted (Glos)

Barn Owl GH84937 Pull 15/07/96 Standon, Nr Maer (Staffs) J and E X 09/11/96 Coley Mill, Nr Aqualate (Staffs) 16km

Tawny Owl GK05466 Pull 11/05/94 Halesfield Hill (Glos) SVRG X 16/03/95 Lydiate Ash (Worcs) ' 67km

Sand Martin J796128 Juv 02/07/94 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) PI V 04/06/95 Ashton Keynes (Glos) 87km

J707623 Juv 15/06/95 Cheadle (Gtr. Manchester) V 01/07/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 116km

H902721 17/08/93 Icklesham (Sussex) V 14/05/96 Coton-in-lhe-Clay (Stalls) 273km J446221 19/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 14/05/96 Coton-in-the-Clay (Staffs) 273km

J448085 Juv 29/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) V 04/06/96 Coton-in-the-Clay (Staffs) 273km

H926242 Juv 28/08/93 Isle of Grain (Kent) V 11/09/93 Icklesham (Sussex) 63km V 09/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km V 01/07/95 Comets End, Meriden V 08/06/96 Comets End, Meriden 176

Species Ringer Ring No. Aae/Sex Date Place Movement

J693787 Juv 15/07/94 Wanlip Gravel Pits (Leics) V 08/06/96 Cornels End, Meriden (W Mids) 48 km

F808169 Ad 21/08/95 Icklesham (Sussex) V 08/06/96 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) 233km

J807463 16/08/95 Icklesham (Sussex) V 27/06/96 Ellastone (Staffs) 286km

K331507 Juv 30/06/95 Comets End, Meriden (W Mids) PI v 13/06/96 Beslhorpe Gravel Pits (Notts) 103km V 08/07/96 Besthorpe Gravel Pits

•H024613 Juv 08/07/92 Spalding (Lines) V 13/07/96 Cornets End, Meriden (W Mids)

K779091 Juv 24/06/96 Coton-in-lhe-Clay (Staffs) JC V 18/07/96 Icklesham (Sussex) 273km

K741532 Ad 04/06/96 Coton-in-the-Clay (Staffs) JC V 21/08/96 Icklesham (Sussex) 273km

K779169 Ad F 27/06/96 Ellastone (Staffs) JC V 01/05/96 Icklesham (Sussex) 286km

Swallow K339279 Juv 30/08/95 Betley Mere (Stalls) JAL V 24/04/96 Grouville Marsh (Jersey) 427km

K085714 Juv 20/08/95 Rodbaston (Staffs) JC V 01/05/96 Gerona, Spain 1221km

House Martin C875192 Juv 02/09/95 Rye Meads (Herts) RMRG V 26/05/96 Uttoxeter (Starts) 1 /ukm

Nightingale E423685 Ad M 05/05/88 Gadbury Bank (Worcs) WRG V 16/06/96 Gadbury Bank 0km

Blackbird RK84912 Juv M 09/12/94 Chillington Hall (Staffs) WRG X 23/01/96 Holdorf, Weser-Ems, Germany 697km

Redwing RS19095 Juv 19/12/92 Sandon (Staffs) JC + 07/01/96 Vila Real, Tras os Monies, Portugal 1309km

Sedge Warbler J187519 Juv 05/09/95 Shapwick Heath (Somerset) E and C v 26/05/96 Betley Mere (Staffs) 210km 177

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Dale Place Movement Marsh Warbler C791766 Pud n7/nn/9i nefforrt (Worcs) WRG V 23/05/96 Defford 0km

C/91755 Pull 11/07/91 Defford (Worcs) WRG V 25/06/96 Defford 0km

Reed Warbler J317006 Ad M 26/06/93 Hounslow Healh (Gtr. London) PJB V 05/08/94 Hewell Grange (Worcs) 147km

J814855 Ad F 01/08/95 Icklesham (Sussex) RMRG V 05/05/96 Uplon Warren (Worcs) 246km

J803675 Ad 10/05/95 Icklesham (Sussex) RMRG V 01/07/96 Hewell Grange (Worcs) 242km

J757336 Juv 08/08/94 Icklesham (Sussex) RMRG V 11/07/96 Upton Warren (Worcs) 246km

HI42767 Ad 17/08/91 . Icklesham (Sussex) RMRG V 27/07/96 Upton Warren (Worcs) 246km

Pied Flycatcher IIG40672 Pull 04/06/93 Uandllo Hall, Nr Pontrilas (Herelnrtls) LRG V 28/05/96 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush (Worcs) 42km

K274504 Pull 04/06/95 Upper Grange, Nr Vowchurch (Herefords) DGC V 18/06/96 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush (Worcs) 41km

Blue Tit K331185 Juv 24/12/95 Leebotwood (Shrops) V 14/03/96 Uttoxeter (Staffs) 70km

Chaffinch J371620 Juv F 13/11/93 Blithfield (Staffs) JC V 28/01/96 Liverpool (Merseyside) 88km

Siskin H462218 Ad F 01/09/94 Finset, Buskerud, Norway V 07/01/95 Sutton Coldfield (W Mids) 1115km

BG09076 FgM 23/09/94 Fyren.Falslerbo, Sweden V 15/03/95 Sutton Coldfield (W Mids) 1006km

J371962 AdM 25/12/93 Uttoxeter (Staffs) JC V 16/04/95 Golspie Tower Farm (Highlands) 580km V 06/01/96 Golspie Tower Farm

364670 2YM 02/04/95 Malvern Link (Worcs) WRG V 24/03/96 Lilleam (Central Region, Scotland) 455km

H657029 Ad F 04/04/92 Mariey Common (Sussex) V 23/05/95 Uttoxeter (Staffs) 216km

K373442 Ad M 23/02/96 Malvern Link (Worcs) WRG V 31/05/96 Brechin (Tayside) 462km

Reed Bunting K397165 1Y M 02/09/95 Evesham (Worcs) WRG V 26/05/96 Uttoxeter (Stalfs) 84km 178

Key to Ringers/Ringing Groups AS Mis A 3tidl(uiU BS&M P Bache, A Shearwood and C McShane DGC D G Coker E and C Evans and Chidgey GE G Ekins IS I Spense J and E James and Emley JAL J A Lawrence JC J Cameron JM J McMeeking LRG Llancillo Ringing Group MAFF Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries MRG Merseyside Ringing Group NJS N Speak PI P Ireland PJB P J Belman RMRG Rye Meads Ringing Group SVRG Severn Vale Ringing Group WRG Wychavon Ringing Group WWT Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust

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 so on as possible after the observation, records received after January 31st of the following year may be too late for publication. Con- cise though adequate field descriptions (including how the _ * , .... . 7, Goldeneye Dave Nurney) species was identified, the circum- stances of the sighting and the observer's experience of the species) should 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, Greenland Wheatear, Chiffchaff races, Hooded Crow and Mealy Redpoll. The lack of an acceptable description may lead to records being rejected. 179

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 1996 is 335. 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 W Mid * Red-throated Diver C 1995 c C * Black-throated Diver 1995 1995 c c * Great Northern Diver 1994 C c 1986 Little Grebe C C c C Great Crested Grebe C C c C * Red-necked Grebe C C c C * Slavonian Grebe C C c 1991 * Black-necked Grebe C C c C * Fulmar 1994 1989 1993 C * Cory's Shearwater - - 1971 - * Manx Shearwater 1994 1994 C. 1990 * European Storm-petrel 1978 1968 1990 1970 * Leach's Storm-petrel 1989 1989 1989 1987 * Gannet C 1995 1993 1991 Cormorant C C c C * Shag C 1993 C C * Bittern C C 1995 1995 " Little Bittern 1981 1865 1901 <1836 * Night Heron C 1983 1987 1994 * Squacco Heron - - 1874 - * Cattle Egret 1994 1993 1987 - * Little Egret C C C C * Great White Egret 1995 - - 1995 Grey Heron C C C C * Purple Heron 1990 1982 1994 - * Black Stork - 1956 1985 - 'White Stork C 1995 1990 1986 * Glossy Ibis - - 1840 - 'Spoonbill C 1988 C C Mute Swan c C C C Bewick's Swan c C C 1994 * Whooper Swan c 1995 C C * Bean Goose c 1993 1994 - * Pink-footed Goose c C C C * White-fronted Goose c C C 1994 | Lesser White-fronted Goose] 1991 - 1992 - Greylag Goose C C C C [ Snow Goose) 1994 c C c Canada Goose C c C c * Barnacle Goose C c C c * Brent Goose C c C c [ Red-breasted Goose] 1973 c 1992 - Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Egyptian Goose 1995 1909 1992 C Ruddy Shelduck C c 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 C - Shoveler C c C c Red-crested Pochard C c C 1995 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 C 1991 Common Scoter C C C C Surf Scoter 1986 - - - Velvet Scoter 1995 1985 1992 1994 Goldeneye C C C C Smew C C C 1995 Red-breasled Merganser C C C C Goosander C C C C Ruddy Duck C C C C Honey Buzzard 1993 1987 1994 C Black Kite - 1986 1991 - Red Kite C C C C White-tailed Eagle 1891 1945 1905 - Marsh Harrier C C C c ' Hen Harrier C C C 1995 ' Montagu's Harrier 1995 1995 1994 1951 'Goshawk C C C C Sparrowhawk C C C C Common Buzzard C C C C ' Rough-legged Buzzard 1994 1979 1995 C ' Golden Eagle - - N/K - ' Osprey C C C C 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 1995 1994 Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Pheasant C C C C [ Golden Pheasant] 1995 1972 C 1985 Water Rail C C C C * Spotted crake C C 1993 1994 " Little Crake 1974 - - - * Corncrake 1994 1988 1988 1965 Moortien 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 1995 - * Avocet C C 1995 - * Stone-curlew 1853 C 1956 1991 " Collared Pratincole C 1994 - - Little Ringed Plover C C C C Ringed Plover C C C C * Kentish Plover 1993 1940 1995 - • Dotterel 1993 1994 1993 1978 "American Golden Plover 1991 - - - Golden Plover C C C C Grey Plover C c C 1995 "White-tailed Plover 1975 - - - Lapwing C c c C Knot C c c C Sanderiing C c c c Little Stint C c c c *Temminck's Stint C 1992 1994 1993 ** Least Sandpiper - 1988 1971 - "White-rumped Sandpiper - C 1989 - " Baird's Sandpiper c - C - * Pectoral Sandpiper 1993 1995 C 1988 Curlew Sandpiper C C C 1993 * Purple Sandpiper 1993 1988 1995 1985 Dunlin C C C c " Broad-billed Sandpiper 1985 - - - * Buff-breasted Sandpiper 1995 - 1980 - Ruff C C C C Jack Snipe C C C C Common Snipe C c C c " Great Snipe 1894 - 1954 1995 " Long-billed Dowitcher 1983 1990 - - Woodcock C C C C Black-tailed Godwit C C c c Bar-tailed Godwit C C c 1985 Whimbrel C C c C Curlew C C c C ** Upland Sandpiper 1851 - - - Spotted Redshank C c c C Redshank C c c c " Marsh Sandpiper - - 1974 - Greenshank C c c c ** Lesser Yellowlegs - 1995 - 182

Species Warks Worcs Staffs WMid Groon Sandpiper r n r. n Wood Sandpiper c C C 1994 Common Sandpiper c C C C " Spotted Sandpiper 1990 - 1982 - Turnstone C C C 1995 ** Wilson's Phalarope C 1985 * Red-necked Phalarope 1988 1989 C 1893 * Grey Phalarope 1995 C C 1994 * Pomarine Skua 1985 1995 1991 1985 * Arctic Skua 1994 C C 1995 * Long-tailed Skua - 1967 1994 1991 ' Great Skua 1989 1994 1994 1994 * Mediterranean Gull C C C C " Laughing Gull - C - 1985 Little Gull C C C C * Sabine's Gull 1989 1994 C - " Bonaparte's Gull 1992 - C - Black-headed Gull C C c C 'Ring-billed Gull 1991 1989 1981 C 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 1995 C 1990 Great Black-backed Gull C C C C Kittiwake C C C C " Gull-billed Tem 1899 N/K 1989 1896 " Caspian Tem 1993 1971 1993 1979 Sandwich Tem C C C C * 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 C "Whiskered Tem 1987 1994 1970 - Black Tem C C C c " White-winged Black Tem C 1992 1992 1977 * Guillemot N/K - 1920 1980 * Razorbill N/K 1953 - 1912 ' Little Auk 1995 1993 C 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 C 1993 C 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 Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Short-eared Owl C C C 1995 Tengmalm's Owl - 1901 - - Nightjar 1989 C c 1979 Needle-tailed Swift - - 1991 - Common Swift C c C C Alpine Swift - 1994 C 1988 Kingfisher c C C C Bee-eater 1886 1970 - 1955 Roller - - 1908 - Hoopoe 1995 1992 C C Wryneck C C 1994 1995 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 C C - 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 C - 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 1995 Yellow Wagtail C c c C Grey Wagtail C c c C Pied Wagtail C c c C Waxwing C c c C Dipper C c c C Wren C c c C Dunnock C c c C Alpine Accentor 1904 - - - Robin C c c C Nightingale C c 1988 1979 Bluethroat 1995 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart C C 1995 C Common Redstart C C C C Whinchat C C C C Stonechat C C C C Northern Wheatear C C C C Desert Wheatear - - C - White's Thrush 1895 - - - Ring Ouzel C c c C Blackbird C C c c Dusky Thrush - 1979 - - Dark-throated Thrush - C 1978 - Fieldfare C C C c Song Thrush c C C c Redwing c C C c Mistle Thrush c C C c Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Cetti's Warbler C C 1978 I«HH Grasshopper Warbler c C C c River Warbler C - Savi's Warbler 1995 1994 1977 - Aquatic Warbler - 1983 Sedge Warbler C C C c Marsh Warbler 1992 C C 1982 Reed Warbler C C C C Great Reed Warbler 1979 -

Icterine Warbler - 1942 1993 _ Melodious Warbler C -

Dartford Warbler 1914 1995 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 C 1993 1994 - Dusky Warbler - c Wood Warbler C C C c Chiffchaff C C c c Willow Warbler C C c c Goldcrest C C c c * Firecrest C C 1995 c 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 1995 1995 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 1995 Starling C C C C " Rose-coloured Starling 1890 1855 1987 1890 House Sparrow C C C C 185

Species Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Tree Sparrow C C C C Chaffinch C C C C Brambling C c c C * Serin - 1981 1995 - Greenfinch C C C c Goldfinch c C C c Siskin c C C c Linnet c C C c * Twite 1992 C C 1991 Common Redpoll C C C C ** Arctic Redpoll - C C - ** Two-barred Crossbill - 1838 1980 - Common Crossbill C 1995 C 1995 Bullfinch c C C C Hawfinch c C 1995 1993 * Lapland Bunting 1981 - 1993 C * Snow Bunting C C C 1988 ** Pine Bunting - c - - Yellowhammer c c C C * Cirl Bunting 1959 1983 1951 1950 ** Rustic Bunting - 1987 - - * Little Bunting 1902 1994 1995 — Reed Bunting c C C C Corn Bunting C C C c

" Baltimore Oriole - - - 1968 County List Totals 290 289 302 259

Northern Wheatears (Terry Parker) 186

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

Warwickshire Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Clifton-upon-Dunsmore SP5376 llmington (Dingle Pool) SP2044 Alcester SP0857 Close Wood SP2584 llmington Downs SP1942 Alvecote SK2504 Cotdcomfort Wood SP0658 Itchington Holt SP3755 Ansley GC SP3094 Coleshill SP2089 Ansty SP3983 Compton Vemey SP3152 Jephson Gardens SP3265 Ashome SP3057 Compton Wynyates SP3341 Jubilee Pools SP3873 Asplands Husk Coppice SP0559 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Alherstone GC SP3096 Coombe Fields SP4081 Kenilworth SP2971 Avon Dassett SP4149 Corley SP3085 Kineton SP3351 Colon Pools SP2194 Kingsbury Rifle Range SP229B BAD Kineton SP3651 Coughton Court SP0860 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Curdworth SP1892 Kingsbury WP SP2097 Baddesley Common SP2797 Knightcole SP4055 Baginton Airport SP3574 Dog Lane Pool SP4760 Baginton Lagoons SP3573 Dordon SK2600 Ladbroke SP4158 Barford SP2760 Dosthill Pit SP2098 Ladywalk SP2191 Barford Wood SP2862 Draycote Water SP4689 Lawford Heath SP4676 Bascote SP3864 Lea Marslon Pools SP2093 Bearley SP1760 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Leamington Hastings SP4467 Beausale SP2370 Ealhorpe Marsh SP3868 Leamington Spa SP316S Bedworth SP3586 Edge Hill SP3747 Lighthome SP3355 Bedworth Slough SP3587 Edgehill Wood SP3848 Lighthome Heath SP3555 Bentley Common SP2896 Exhall SP3485 Lighthome Quarry SP3456 Bentley Park Wood SP2895 Lighthome Rough SP3154 Famborough Park SP4249 Bermuda SP3589 Lillington SP3267 Fenny Compton SP4152 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Long Complon SP2832 Fenny Complon Hills SP40S1 Bishop's Bowl Lakes SP3858 Long Itchington SP4165 Fillongley SP2887 Bishop's Gorse SP3354 Long Itchinglon Wood SP3963 Fishers Mill SP1998 Bishops Itchington SP3857 Long Lawford SP4776 Flecknoe SP5163 Black Hill Pool SP2359 Long Marston SP1548 Fosse Rides SP3052 Blyth Hall SP2090 Lower Radbourn SP4457 Foxcote Park SP1941 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Lowsonford SP1867 Franklon PoulS SP4289 Bowshot Wood SP3053 Freasley SP2499 Bradley Green SK2800 Mancetter SP3296 Furnace End SP2491 Brailes SP3337 Marlcliff SP0950 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Gaydon SP3654 Marlon SP4068 Bretlord SP4277 Grandborough SP4965 Maxstoke SP2386 Bubbenhall SP3672 Green End SP2686 Meon Hill SP1745 Bulkington SP3987 Middleton Hall SP1998 Burton Dassett SP3951 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Moreton Morrell SP3055 Burton Green SP2675 Hamplon-on-lhe-Hill SP2563 Butler's End SP2484 Hams Hall SP2092 Napton Fields SP4461 Butlers Marston SP3150 Harbury SP3760 Napton Hill (church) SP4661 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Napton Hill (windmill) SP4561 Chadshunt SP3553 Hartshill SF SP3395 Napton Res SP4759 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Haseley SP2368 Nether Whitacre SP2392 Charlecote SP2656 Hatton SP2367 Newbold Comyn SP3365 Chase Lane SP2773 Hay Wood SP2171 Newbold-on-Stour SP2446 Cherington SP2936 Heach Wood SP2488 Newbold Quarry SP4976 Chesterton SP3558 Hodnell SP4257 Newfield Pool SP4554 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Hunts Green SP1897 Northend SP3952 Church Pool Covert SP2092 Hurley SP2495 Norton Lindsey SP2263 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Hurley STW SP2396 Nuneaton SP3691 187

Oakley Wood SP30S9 Sheffield SP1262 Walton SP2853 Offchurch SP3666 Sherboume SP2661 Warton SK2803 Over Green SP1694 Shipston-on-Stour SP2640 Warwick SP2864 Over Whitacre SP2591 Shrewley SP2267 Wasperton SP2658 Oxhill SP3145 Shuckburgh Park SP4961 Watorgall SP1265 Shusloke Res SP2291 Water Orton SP1891 Packington SP2384 Shutlington SK2505 Waveriey Wood SP3570 Paget's Lane Pool SP3771 Snitlerfield Bushes SP2060 Welcombe Hills SP2057 Piccadilly SP2298 Snowford SP3865 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Pleasance Farm SP2672 Somers, The SP2282 Wellesboume SP2755 Polesworth SK2602 Southam SP4162 Wellesboume Airfield SP2654 Poolfields SP3253 Stockton SP4365 Whatcote SP3043 Princethorpe SP4070 Stoneleigh SP3372 Whateley SP2299 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Stoneton Moat SP4654 Whichford Wood SP3034 Priors Marston SP4957 Stoneylhorpe Hall SP4062 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Strattord-upon-Avon SP2055 Whitacre Pool SP2191 Radford Semele SP3464 Sutton-under-Brailes SP3035 Whittleford SP3291 Radway SP3649 Sych Wood SP2092 Wiggins Hill SP1793 Riversley Park SP3691 Wilmcote SP1657 Rowington SP2069 Winderton SP3240 Temple Pool SP3744 Rugby SP5175 Windmill Hill SP3493 Three Oak Hill Wood SP0658 Ryton-on-Dunsmore GP SP3874 Wishaw SP1794 Tysoe SP3444 Ryton Pool SP3772 Wolverton SP2062 Ryton Wood SP3872 Wood End (Kingsbury) SP239B Ufton Fields SP3861 Wormleighton SP4454 Salford Priors SP0751 Ufton Wood SP3862 Wormleighton Res SP4451 Seckington SK2607 University ol Warwick SP2975 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Upton SP3645 Yamingale Common SP1966

Worcestershire Abberiey Hills S07566 Blakeshall S08381 Church Lench SP0251 Abberton S09953 Brakemill Pool SOB979 Churchill S08879 Adams Hill SP9279 Brand Lodge S07375 Clent S09379 Allrick S07453 Bransford S07952 Clevelode S08346 Alvechurch SP0272 Bredon S09136 Clilton-on-Teme S07161 Areley Kings S08070 Bredon Hill S09139 Clows Top S07171 Arley S07780 Bredon's Hardwick S09135 Coalpit Wood S09174 Ariey Wood S08082 Bredon's Norton S09339 Cofton Hackett SP0075 Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 Bretforton SP0943 Cotton Res SP0075 Ashmoor Common SOS446 British Camp S07640 Coldridge Wood S08082 Aston Mill Pit S09435 British Camp Res S07639 Conderton S09637 Atch Lench SP0350 Broadway SP0937 Cookley S08480 Broadway GP SP0837 Coombe Green Coppice S07736 Badger's Hill SP0048 Bromsgrove S09570 Cowsden S09453 Bamt Green SP0073 Broome S09078 Cradley SO7340 Baughton S08741 Broughton Green S09561 Crayccmbe Bank SP0047 Beckford S09735 Burcot S09871 Croome Park SOB844 Borrow Down S07638 Bushley SOB734 Croome Perry Wood S09046 Berrow Hill (Martley) S07458 Cropthome S09844 Besford S09144 Callow End S08349 Crowle S09256 Bewdley S07875 Callow Hill S07473 Crowle Green S09156 Bibby's Hollow S09682 Carrant Brook S09535 Bickmarsh SP1049 Castlemorton Common S07839 Deerfold Wood S09147 Birchen Coppice S08073 Caunsall SO868O Defford S09143 Biriingham S09343 Chaddesley Wood S09073 Diglis SOS453 Bishampton S09851 Chase End Hill S07635 Dodford S09373 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Chase End Wood S07635 Dowles Brook SO7776 Bittell Res SP0174 Chateau Impney S09164 Drakes Broughton S09148 188

Oroitwich S08963 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Old Yew Hill Wood SP0252 Oroitwich Canal S08560 jfj^n^l Pnppim snK-wi niriinglnn Snfl?74 Droitwich GC S09064 Island Pool S08580 Orlelon S06967 Dunhampstead S09160 Ismere S08679 Overbury S09637

Eardiston S06968 Jubilee Bridge S00045 Peopleton S09350 Eastham S06568 Pershore S09045 Eckington S09241 Kemerton S09437 Pinvin S09549 Elmbridge S09067 Kempsey S08549 Pipers Hill S09565 Evesham SP0343 Kempsey Common SOB748 Pirton SOB747 Eymore Wood S07779 Kempsey Lower Ham S08449 Pitcher Oak Wood SP0252 Kempsey Upper Ham S08448 Pod more Pool SOS477 Fairy Glen SOS681 Kidderminster SOB376 Porter's Mill SOB66O Fall Dingle S06965 Kingsford S06281 Pound Green Common S07378 Feckenham SP0061 Kinsham S09335 Powick Ham SOB352 Finstall S09770 Knapp, The S07451 Fladbury S09946 Knightwick S07355 Quarry Hill S06967 Flyford Flavell S09854 Kyre Green S06062 Footrid S06868 Kyre Pool S06364 Raggedstone Hill S07536 Four Stones Hill S09380 Ravenshill Wood S07353 Frankley S09980 Larford S08169 Redditch SP0467 Frankley Beeches S09979 Lenchlord S08964 Ribbeslord S07872 Lickey Hills S09975 Ripple SOB736 Goosehill Wood S09360 Lindridge S06769 River Rea S06469 Gorsehill S08655 Lineholt S08166 Rock Coppice S07673 Grafton Wood S09756 Little Baughton GC S08353 Romsley S09679 Grimley S08360 Little Comberton S09643 Roundhill Wood S09281 Guarlford S08145 Little Witley S07863 Rous Lench SP0153 Gullet, The S07638 Lodge Hill Farm S07576 Rowney Green SP0471 Gullet Quarry S07638 Longdon S08336 Rushock S08871 Lower Moor S09847 Ryall S08639 Habberley Valley S08076 Lower Smile SOS958 Hagley Hall S09280 Madeley Heath S09577 Salwarpe Valley S08661 Hall Green S07746 Malvern S07745 Sankyns Green S07964 Ham Bridge S07361 Malvern Hills S07745 Sapey Common S07064 Hanbury Park S09464 Malvern Link S07847 Saxon's Lode SOB638 Hanbury Wharf S09262 Marsh Common SOS942 Severn Stoke SOB544 Hanley Hinglp •SOfiflflfi Martlcy S07660 Shadybank Common S07639 Hanley William S06766 Meadows Mill S06967 Shaver's End S07668 Happy Valley S07645 Menithwood S07069 Sheriff's Lench SP0149 Harpley S06861 Midsummer Hill S07637 Shemall Green S09161 Hartlebury Common S08270 Mill Pond S07737 Shorthorn Wood S09950 Hartlebury Tip S08470 Monk Wood S08060 Shortwood Roughs SP0270 Harvington SP0549 Mount Segg SOB675 Shrawley S08064 Hawford S08460 Shrawley Woods SO8O66 Haws Hill S06065 Nash Elm Wood S07881 Sinlon Green S08160 Headless Cross SP0365 Naunton Beauchamp S09652 Slade Wood SP0253 Hewell Grange SP0069 New Parks S07475 Slashes Coppice S07361 Hewell Park SP0169 Newland Common S07948 Smite SOS958 High Green S08645 Newtown SOB963 Sneachill S09053 Hillditch Coppice S08270 North Hill S07646 Southcresl SP0366 Hindlip S08858 North Piddle S09654 Spetchley Park SOB953 Hollybush Quarry S07637 Northwick S08457 Stanford Bridge S07165 Hollywood SP0777 Nunnery Wood S08754 Stanford Court S07065 Holt S08262 Stanford Wood S09257 Holt Fleet S08263 Oakley S08960 Stanley Wood S09257 Homhill Wood S09558 Oddingley S09159 Stocklon-on-Teme S07167 Horsham S07357 Offenham SP0546 Stoke Bliss S06562 Hurcott Pool S08577 Old Hills Common SOB246 Stoke Prior SQ9466 189

Stoke Works S09466 Tiddesley Wood S09345 Westwood S08763 Stone S08574 Tlmberhonger S09170 Weymans Wood S07262 Stonehall Common S08849 Torton S08472 Whittinglon SOS752 Stour Hill S08373 Trench Wood S09258 Wichenford S07860 Stourport S08171 Trimpley nes 307078 Wilden SU82/2 Stourvale Marsh SOB377 Wildmoor Tip S09576 Upper Bentley S09966 Strensham Lagoons S09139 Windmill Hill SP0748 Upper Kites Wood S09757 Wissetts Wood S06772 Upton-upon-Sevem S08540 Table Hill S07646 Witchbalch SO6668 Upton Warren S09367 Tank Quarry S07647 Witley Court S07664 Tanners Hill S0787S Wadborough S09047 Wolverley SOS379 Tardebigge Res S09668 Walton Hill S09479 Woodbury Hill S07564 Teme Valley S066/76 Warford Dingle S07864 Worcester S08454 Temeside Way S08451 Wamdon S08856 Worcestershire Beacon S07645 Temple Dingle SO7064 Weaiheroak Hill SP0674 Wyre Forest S07475 Three Counties Webheath SP0166 Wyre Piddle S09647 Showground S07842 Welland SO7940 Wythall SP0875 Thrift Wood S09866 West Hagley S09080 Wythall Meadow SP0876 Throckmorton Tip S09748 Westmancote S09337 Tibberton S09057 Westminster Farm S09980 Yeald Wood SP0152

Staffordshire Abbots Bromley SK0824 Brancote SJ9621 Danebridge SJ9665 Alrewas GP SK1715 Branston GP/WP SK2120 Deephayes CP SJ9653 Alsagers Bank SJHU48 Urereton SK0516 Oenslone SK0940 Alton SK0742 Brocton SJ9619 Dessington SJ8722 Amington SK2304 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 •immingsdale SK0543 Anslow SK2125 Brookleys Lake SK0943 •osthill north GP SP2099 Anson's Bank SJ9816 Bunkers Hill Wood S08782 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Apedale SK2125 Burton-upon-Trent SK2423 Drayton Bassett SK1900 Aqualate SJ7720 Byanna SJ8329 Drayton Bassett GP SP2099 Ashwood S08688 Byrkley Park SK1623 Drystone Edge SK0268 Astonefields SJ9225 Dunsley S08584 Axe Edge SK0370 Calton Low SK1150 Dydon Wood SK1344 Calwich SKI 443 Back Forest SJ9865 Cannock Chase SK0017 Eccleshall SJ8329 Baden Hall SJ6431 Cannock Tip SJ9909 Elford GP SK1810 Bagots Wood SK0927 Carlton Catlow SK0985 Ellastone SK1142 Baldslones NR SK0164 Catholme SK2016 Enville S08286 Barton GP SK2017 Calshill Cross SJ8331 Barton Turn SK2018 Chasewater SK0307 Footherley SK1002 Barton-under-Needwood SK1818 Chebsey SJ8528 Ford Green SJ8950 Basford Green SJ9951 Checkhill S08587 Four Ashes SJ9208 Baswich SF SJ9522 Chillington SJ8606 Fradley Airfield SK1413 Bearda Hill SJ9664 Clay Mills SK2625 Gailey SJ9310 Beckwood SJ7646 Clayton SJ8543 Gerrards Bromley SJ7734 Beech SJ8538 Clilton Campville SK2510 Gib Torr SK0264 Belvide Res SJ8610 Cold Meece SJ8532 Gnosall SJ8220 Betley Mere SJ7548 Cold Norton SJ8731 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Biddulph Moor SJ9057 Coley Mill SJ7918 Gothersley SOS586 Bishops OHIey SJ7729 Coombes Valley SK0052 Gradbach Hill SJ9965 Bishton SK0220 Copmere SJ8029 Great Wyrley SJ9907 Black Bank SK0164 Coton Clanford SJ8723 Greensforge SO8688 Blackbank SJ8147 Cresswell Grove SJ8925 Greenway Bank CP SJ885S Blithfield Res SK0623 Crossplains SKI 624 Gun Hill SJ9761 Blue Hills SK0162 Croxall GP SK1914 Borrowpit SK2003 Croxden GP SK0341 Hamps Valley SK0953 Bradley SJ8817 Crumpwood SK0942 Hanbury SJ9661 190

Hanchurch SJ8441 Milford SJ9621 Stafford Common SJ9125 I landoaoro Flach SKTISHR MnrnHgq RK0256 Stanton Dale SK1048 Haughton SJ862Q Musden Low SK1150 Stapenhill SK2521 Hazel Barrow SK0163 Musden SK1251 Stockingate SJ8622 Highgate Common SOB389 Stoke-on-Trenl SJ8745 Hill Ridware SK0717 Nsedwood Forest SK1724 Stourton S08685 Himley S08891 Newcastle-under-Lyne SJ8445 Stowe Pool SK1210 Hixon Airfield SK0025 Norbury SK1242 Swallow Moss SK0660 Hockley SK2200 Swindon SOS698 Hollybush Lake SK1326 Okeover Mill SK1648 Swynnerton SJ8535 Hulme SK1059 Orchard Common SK0269 Ousley Cross SK1244 Tamworth SK2003 Ingestre SK9824 Thomdiffe SK1058 Ipstones Edge SK0450 Park Hall CP SJ9345 Three Shire Heads SK0068 Ivertey S08781 Pasford S08099 Tittesworth Res SJ9959 Pattingham S08299 Tixall SJ9722 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Pendeford Mill NR SJ8904 Trentham Park/Gardens SJ8640 Keele University SJ8244 Pool Dam Marsh SJ8346 Trysull SOS594 Kettlebrook Lake SK2103 Pool Meadows SJ9351 Kidsgrove SJ8354 Prestwood SK1042 Kings Bromley SK1216 Walton-on-the-Hill SJ8934 Warslow SK0858 Kingswood SJ9908 Rickerscote SJ9320 Weaver Hills SK1046 Kinver SOB483 Ridgehill Wood S08787 Weeford SK1403 Knotbury SK0168 Roaches SK0063 Weeping Cross SJ9421 Knypersley Res SJ8955 Rocester SK1139 Werrington SJ9447 Rolleston-on-Dove SK2327 Westlands SJB344 Lawneswood S08787 Rudyard Res SJ9459 Westport SJ8550 Leycett NR SJ7946 Rugeley SK0417 Lichfield SK1110 Wetley Moor SJ9248 Little Aston SK0900 Seightord SJ8824 Wheaton Aston SJ8512 Little Wyrley SK0105 Seisdon S08394 Whitemoor Hay SK1813 Longsdon Mill Pool SJ9554 Seven Springs SK0020 Whittington SF S08582 Longsdon Wood SJ9655 Sheepwalks S08185 Wilnecote SK0111 Longsdon SK0814 Shenstone SK1004 Wolstanton SJ8547 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Womboume SOB793 Manston Lane SJ9126 Shipley S08095 Woodmill SK1321 Meretown Pool SJ7520 Silverdale Colliery SJ8146 Wootton Park SK0944 Mnir Heath SJ9340 Smestow S08591 Middle Hills SK0363 Stafford SJ9223 Yoxall Park SK1521

West Midlands Ackers, The SP1084 Berkswell GP SP2180 Branton Hill Quarry SK0600 Acock's Green SP1183 Bescot Freight Centre SP0195 Bromwich Wood S09981 Aldersley SJ9001 Bickenhill SP1882 Brookvale Park SP0991 Aldridge SK0S00 Bilston 509496 Brownhills Nature Trail SJ0306 Aldridge GC SK0601 Bilston Cemetery 509497 Brueton Park SP1678 Amblecote S09085 Bilston Steelworks Buckpool S08986 Aston SP0889 (disused) S09395 Bumble Hole S09588 Binley SP3777 Balsall Common SP2476 Birmingham Airport SP1784 Canley Ford SP3176 Balsall Heath SP0784 Birmingham City Centre SP0686 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Barr Beacon SP0697 Black Lake S09992 Calherine-de-Bames SP1880 Barr Common SP0699 Bourne Vale SP0699 Cheswick Green SP1275 Barrow Hill S09189 Boumeville SP4081 Cinder Bank S09388 Barston SP2078 Bowmans Harbour S09399 Clayhanger SK0404 Barston Ford SP2077 Brades Hall S09790 Close Wood SP2584 Bartley Res SP0081 Bradnock's Marsh SP2179 Coalboumbrook S09085 Berkswell SP2479 Brandwood Cemetery SP0779 Compton S08898 191

Compton Park S08898 Kinelon Lane SP1474 Ruiton Quarry S09191 Coombeswood S09785 King's Norton SP0579 Rushall Manor SP0299 Cooper's Wood S09882 Kingswinford SO8888 Ryders Green SQ9893 Comets End SP2381 Cotwall End S00102 La pal C09003 Sallwells Wood S09387 Coundon SP3181 Leasowes, The S09783 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Lee Bank SP0686 Selly Oak SP8203 Coventry City Centre SP3379 Leys, The S09087 Sheepwash UP S09791 Cradley Heath S09485 Little Aston GC SK0800 Sheldon CP SP1584 Crowther Road Wood SJB900 London Road Cemetery Shirley SP1279 Cuckoo's Nook SP0S98 (Coventry) SP3478 Shut End S08989 Lower llley S09881 Small Heath Park SP1085 Darby's Hill S09689 Lutley S09483 Smestow Fields SOB798 Dartaston SP9697 Smethwick SP0288 Dartmouth Park SP0191 Manor Way Colliery S09783 Solihull SP1579 Deersleap Wood SP0286 Marston Green SP1781 Somers Road GP SP2382 Dell, The S09188 Mary Stevens Park S08983 Spring Vale S09395 Delph, The SP9186 Mercote Mill SP2280 Stambermill S09395 Digbelh SP0786 Meriden SP2481 Stoke Floods SP3778 Domdge SP1675 Meriden GP SP2381 Stonebridge Meadows SP3475 Domdge Park SP1675 Merry Hill S09287 Stourbridge S08983 Dudley S09390 Milking Bank S09290 Streetly SP0998 Dunstall Park SJ9000 MinworthSF SP1592 Stubber's Green SK0401 Monkspath SP1474 Sutton Coldfield SP1296 Earlswood (Norton Lane) SP1074 Mons Hill S09392 Sulton Park SP0997 Edgbaslon SP0584 Moseley SP0783 Edgbaston Park SP0584 Mushroom Green Marsh S09386 Edgbaston Res SP0486 Temple Balsall SP2076 Erdington SP1191 Neachells Branch Canal S09599 Tile Cross SP1G86 Netherton Hill S09388 Tocil Wood SP3075 Fens Pools S09188 Netherton Res S09387 Trittiford Park SP0980 Finham SP3375 Newtown SP0688 Valley Park SJ8900 Fishley SK0003 Norton S08992 Foots Hole S09087 Fordhouses SJ9002 Walsall SP0198 Old Walsall Airfield SP0499 Four Oaks SP1198 Walsall Arboretum SP0198 Oldbury S09889 Friar Park SP0094 Walsgrave SP3881 Oldswinford S09083 Furnace Coppice S09684 Warrens Hall S09588 Olton SP1382 Wednesfield SJ9400 Oxley SJ9001 Gibbet Hill SP3074 Wergs SJ8700 Goscote Valley SK0102 West Bromwich SP0091 Park Hall Pool SK0397 Grange Park S09390 West Park S09099 Park Lime Pits SP0299 West Smethwick Park SP0088 Park Wood (Canley) SP2877 Halesowen S09683 Whitley SP3577 Peddimore SP1593 Hall Green SP1081 Whitley Grove SP3576 Pedmore S09182 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Whitmore Reans S09099 Pelsall SK0203 Handsworth Wood SP0590 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Pelsall North Common SK0103 Hartiome SP0284 Wightwick S08698 Pelsall Wood SK0103 Harbome NR SP0285 Willenhall S09698 Penn SOS996 Hawne Park S09584 Wishaw SP1695 Pensnett S09188 Hayhead Wood SP0498 Withymoor Pool S09085 SP0692 Hobs Hole SK0601 Witton Lakes SP0892 Perry Barr Park Lake Hockley SP0S88 Wolveiliamplon S09198 Hockley Heath SP1572 S09884 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Quinton Hydes Road Pool S09994 Woodshires Green SP3484 Red House Park SP0394 Wren's Nest S09391 llley S09881 Rough Wood SJ9800 Wyken Slough SP3683 192

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. It would greatly help compilation if observers could give their full set of initials with their records; this would cut down confusion between similar names or initials by identifying the observer more uniquely.

D J Abbott T D Clifton C Greenway (CGr) B Adams DA Cohen G H Green P H Adams D G Coker* F C Gribble P L Adams C Cole C Griffiths (CG) W Adams T Coleshaw G Grove (GGr) C Albrighton J F Collyer J V Gulley J K A Allen K J Collyer AGwilt J L Alitor) H E Coney P Anstis Mr Cooper P M Hackett G J Ariss S Cope D Hall MA Arnold P J Copson J Hall (JH) J A Asbury S Croft P Hall P F Attierton R Crutchlow (RCr) J J Halstead S J Cull A Hancock PBache* G Culverwell M Hancock (MHk) C 0 Baggott P A Curry A1 Harbird Banbury Ornithological Society (BOS) R E Harbird A J Barker D A Dando P A Harper S R J Barker H A Davis G R Harrison L H Barlow L J Davis J V Harrison N P Barlow A R Dean J Harrison A D Barter S R Deane M Harrison (MH) P W Bateman P K Dedicoat A H J Harrop L R Bayes P Denman (POn) P A Harper M D Baynes (MDBs) F Dickson R D Hawkins J T Belsey H F Diepold S L Haycox Belvide Log S Dix (SO) u G M Hayes B Bishop D Dixon S M Haynes A C Bletchly A K Dolphin F Henderson (FH) S C Bletchly Doxey Marsh Birdwatching Group K Heron S Bloomlield (DMBG) M Heslop K Blundell P Douthwaite (PD) F Hextall M D Boots (MOB) Draycote Log T C Hextell D Booth D Dunford (DD) B Higginbottom (BH) J J Bowley S M Dungey B Higginson T Boyce S Dunstan J K Higginson Brandon Marsh Conservation Group A J Hill (BMCQ) 3 Edwards B Hill (BHI) G Briddick D W Emley* D 1 Hill J H Brindle S M Emley R A Hill British Trust tor Ornithology D A Evans T M Hinett C Brittle G Evans J R Hodson L A Brown K Evans M J Hollis A Brydges (ABr) J Evans R Hollis A Butter (AB) R Evans J V Holtham J Hopkins (JHo) J Cameron* G A Farmer R R Howl D Campbell (DC) D J Farrant S J Huggins N Carter (Staffs) P J Finden B Hughes N Carter (Warks) N R C Forward P D Hyde P W Cashmore D C Fowler S L Cawthray P French M J Inskip D Charles-Edwards R Fussell P Ireland* J AChidwick R Churms (RC) N D Galloway A G Jackson E S Clare D Gash (DG) C Jackson P Clement B Gavan W T Jackson K M Clements M Gibbins A F Jacobs B Clews G 1 Giles J N Jacobs K G Clifford D Goodwin S Jaggs D Clifton (DCI) S Graham M D James T Clifton G Greaves (GG) N B James 193

R J Jennett N Page R Stonier D A Jennings M W Painting A M Storey-Day B Jones A Palmer G Summers G N Jones D G Parker M D Sutton P Jones T Parker W Jones J D Pan P Taylor (rT) J F C Judge M Parry J C Teasdale J Patient R J Thomas • P P Kelly Pensnetl Wildlife Group P Thompson A Kelsall G H Peplow R Thompson D Kelsall W F Peplow T M Thurslield D J Kighlley W R H Peplow M Till H King B R Perry C J Timmins R J King E G Phillips P Tlpler {PTi) B L Kington C H Potter T Trueman R W S Knightbrldge M D Powell E A Tunbridge R Power F W Tunbridge R W Price C E Turner Q LaBouchardlere T Price (TP) M E Turner G D Laight T Pritchard CTPr) S J Turner C J Lane R A Prudden M V Tursner A J Last B G Turton J A Lawrence* A R Layfield H S Quiney N Unwin M J Lewis J Liggins J Raby Valley Park Bird Group J V Lloyd R Randall (VPBG) W J Low D Raldiffe PF Rhodes I N Ricketts J Wagstalt