Annual Report 1989

Herefordshire Ornithological Club

1 f: j ANNUAL REPORT 1989

Ne. 9 Vel. 4 £2.50 Cover illustration hy John Reuney S. WL.A. of Brif?hton. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

No. 9 Vo\. 4

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 1989

President J.L. FOX

Vice Presidents:- P.W. HINDE, M.B.O.U., Dr. C.W. WALKER, M.C. A.G. FYSHE

Chairman: A.J. SMITH

Hon.Secretary:- I.B.EVANS 12 Brockington Drive, Tupsley, Hereford. Tel: (0432)265509

Hon.Treasurer:- I.T. STONE Chantries, Grosmont, Abergavenny.

Hon. Recorder:- K.A.MASON The Sett, Common Hill, Fownhope. Tel: (0432) 860546

HonPield Secretary: K.A.MASON

Hon.Editor: A.MARCHANT

Hon. Bulletin Editor: P. GARDNER

Committee:- G.S. BILBAO P.J. ELDRIDGE P.G. BRADLEY Mrs F.R. FRANCIS Mrs J.M. BROMLEY P. THOMSON Miss W.O. DAVIES L.F. VICKERS HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB RULES

I. NAME. The Club shall be called the Herefordshire Ornithological Club.

2. OBJECTS. The objects of the Club shall be (a) to further the study ofbirds in the field, and (b) to assist in their preservation. 3. MEMBERSHIP. The Club shall consist of a President, a Chairman, a Secretary, a Field Secretary, a Treasurer, an Editor, a Recorder, and Ten Committee Members and Ordinary Members. The President and the Chairman to retire after serving a term of three years. The Secretaries, the Treasurer, the Recorder and the Editor shall be elected annually. The three senior of the ten Ordinary Members of the Committee shall retire annually and they shall not be eligible for re-election for a period of 12 months. The Officers and Ordinary Members of the Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and the Officers shall be eligible for re-election. Nominations for the Committee must be received in writing by the Hon. Secretary by February 14th. 4. CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Any members failing to support and keep this law shall be required to resign. Members shall not divulge to unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and/or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of the Club. 5. SUBSCRIPTIONS. (a) Junior members, over 12 but under 18 years ofage, £3. Ordinary members, 18 years and over, £5. A married couple, £7.50. Any additional members of a household £ I. Subscriptions are payable on January 1st or on election to membership. Corporate Members: Kindred bodies, Schools, etc. Subscription £5 per annum. Honorary Members: As approved by the majority present at the Annual General Meeting. (b) All subscriptions subsequent to those paid on admission shall be due on January 1st each year. Where a member has been elected on or after 1st September in any year, there will be no further liability to subscribe in the year immediately following that of his or her election. Any member whose subscription is six months in arrears shall cease to receive the Club's publications and, should the subscription not be paid by December 31 st, his or her name shall be deleted from the list of Members. 6. MANAGEMENT. The Secretary shall keep Minutes of the Meetings and prepare such literature as shall keep the Members infonned of the Club's activities. 7. MEETINGS shall be held as often as deemed desirable at the discretion of the Officers. 8. REPORT. There shall be an Editorial Committee of at least three Members including the Secretary, appointed at an ordinary Committee Meeting. These shall prepare and present an Annual Report and such special reports as may be decided upon. 9. ALTERATIONS OF RULES. An alteration of the Rules may be made only if proposed at one meeting, printed on the agenda for the following meeting, and passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 41 I

EDITORIAL

A glance through many of the previous editorials in the Club's Reports will show that over the years the various issues which affect the avian world have, to a large extent, remained unchanged within the County and elsewhere. Loss of habitat must undoubtedly be the primary concern for all those who are interested in preserving our avifauna and other wildlife. Marshy areas continue to be drained and ancient hedgerows and old orchards removed to create 'prairie' style agriculture. In addition a number of species, particularly owls, are frequent road casualties. Meanwhile those species which are summer visitors continue to face a hazardous journey during their migration across some of the countries of our European neighbours where shooting, 'liming' and trapping etc. continue to be carried out, even in those countries where birds are legally protected. If they manage to survive this slaughter their breeding success and survival rate within their wintering quarters is very much determined by climatic conditions, often resulting in considerable fluctuations in numbers. This has been particularly noticeable over the years among Sand Martins and Whitethroats.

However, all is not gloom for with the aid of reserves owned and/or managed by the Herefordshire Nature Trust and efforts by individuals and some local industries various habitats have been secured for the future and new areas created.

An abundance of records has been received during the year which is particularly encouraging. The total number of species recorded was 145 + [I].

The year began well with c55 Barnacle Geese at Clifford on January 3rd where they remained for at least three weeks. The Ferruginous Duck from 1988 was last noted at Unton on 9th and a Night Heron was present on the Herefordshire/ Radnorshire border from 16th - 18th. A Shelduck was noted at Hampton Bishop on February 1sI. During March two Red Kites were seen near Ivington on 24th and a Redshank at Castleton on 27th. Another Redshank was at Mathon GP on April 15th, a Short-eared Owl at Winforton on 16th and a Long-eared Owl at Foy on 19th. The second Shelduck for the year was noted at Bodenham GP on 20th. Two drake Garganey were at the same locality on May IIth and during the third week ofthe month 3 - 4 Comcrakes were heard calling at Whitbourne. It was at this time that the Quail 'invasion' began with subsequent reports from numerous localities. Two Grasshopper Warblers were 'reeling' in British Camp area from 3rd - 11th June and a Black Tern was at Bodenham GP on 20th. The first passage Greenshanks noted were singles at Castleton and Hampton Bishop on July 16th and a Redshank was at Castleton on the same day. A yellow-legged Herring Gull was at Stretton Sugwas on 17th, the same or another Greenshank at Castleton on 18th. a possible Pratincole over Bosbury on 21 st, a Dunlin at Mathon GP on 30th and a Greenshank at Wergins Bridge on 31 sI. A Red Kite was noted over Ledbury on August 3rd, onc. possibly two. Ring-necked Parakeets at Hampton Bishop on 6th and a Greenshank there on 15th. A Dunlin was at Castleton on 24th and a Greenshank there on 26th. A Wood Sandpiper was at Hampton Bishop on September 2nd, a Spotted Redshank at Eywood NR on 6th. a Ringed Plover at Holme Marsh on l6th and a Redshank at Tupsley on 30th. A Red Kite was noted near Leintwardine in October and a late Greenshank at Hampton Bishop on 24th. c20 Redshank flew over Holme Marsh on Nov. IsI. A Red Kite (probably the Leintwardine bird) \Vas noled in the Wigmore area in early December and later 412 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

found poisoned. The year ended with a Great Northern Diver at Bodenham GP from 14th - 19th.

FINANCES. A statement of the Club's finances will be found at the end of this Report.

CLUB ACTIVITIES. Club outings were held during the year at Talybont/ Llangorse (twice), Letton, WhitcliffeIBurrington, Wigmore Rolls/Criftin Ford Bridge, Ynys-hir RSPB reserve (twice), Bradnor Hill, Wilton Wye, Llanbedr, Haugh Wood (twice), Wapley Hill, Common Hill, Llandegley, Kings Caple, Brilley Green Dingle, Elan Valley, Kentchurch, Trelleck (Nightjar meeting), Moelienydd, Severn Estuary, Upton Warren, Blaen-y-Cwm, Holme Lacy area, Shaky Bridge (Llandrindod), High Vinnals,Brierley Court, BritishCamp/Castlem orton area and Llyn Hilyn. Thanks go to all landowners who granted us pennission to visit their properties and to all the leaders of the various meetings.

Indoor meetings included a Members' evening and illustrated talks by Ifor Evans, 'The Cevennes and The Camargue'; Tim Davies, 'Birdwatching - the Pleasure and the Purpose'; David Westbrook, Action for Birds'; Chris Mylne, 'The Remarkable Willow Grouse' (film); Dr. Mike Moser, 'Birds of the Camar gue'. Thanks go to all the speakers.

The Club again assisted the RSPB in the showing of three new films at the Town Hall, Hereford.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. The Club is indebted to Mr. and Mrs. P. Gardner for preparing the Club Bulletins, to Mr. T. Davies for auditing the accounts and to the Editorial Sub-Committee, Mr. P.W. Hinde, Dr. C.W. Walker, Mr. A.l. Smith and the Secretary for their assistance and comments and to all members and other persons whose contributions have made this Report possible.

A. Marchant. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 413

HEREFORDSHIRE NATURE TRUST NEST BOX SCHEME - 1989 RESULTS C.W. SHELDRAKE

Recording took place at 21 sites this year.

1989 1988

Nests Fledged Nests Fledged Pied Flycatcher 198 968 219 982 Blue Tit 191 1384 206 1411 Great Tit 90 531 107 689 Marsh Tit 4 35 5 33 Coal Tit 5 52 5 42 Redstart I 0 6 28 Nuthatch 8 49 20 87 Tawny Owl 1 1 Stock Dove 1 0

Sites recorded 21 23 Total Boxes used 499 568 Boxes recorded 736 855 % used 67.7 66.4

1989 BREEDING STATISTICS

Pied Flycatcher Blue Tit Great Tit Average clutch size 6.7 (6.5) 9.8 (8.8) 7.98 (7.6) % hatched 84.16 80.8 84.6 % fledged 85.4 98.6 89.2 % overall 72.4 (76.5) 79.7 (61.8) 75.55 (60.3) Fledged/pair 4.8 7.83 6.03

Results from RSPB reserve at Nagshead, Gloucestershire in brackets.

It was disappointing to receive only 21 returns this year due to 2 returns not submitted and insufficient records for the Doward reserves. In spite of this the occupancy was up this year following the beneficial winter.

Herefordshire breeding statistics were better than those recorded at the Nagshead reserve where the caterpillars were over before the birds had large young.

Predation took place at Mowley, Whitfield and Llancillo Hall. Results at the Shobdon site were better than for many years and Pied Flycatchers bred at the Holme Lacy site for the first time.

Footnote. Pied Flycatchers were noted on migration on 5th May, 1989 in Cork oakwoods on the Coto Doniina. S.W. Spain but none were seen there during a second visit on 11th May. 414 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

RINGING REPORT FOR 1989

Complete details of their ringing activities in Herefordshire have been supplied by D.G.B., S.G.D., P.G., J.1. and A.M. S.J.T., J.F. and F.B. have provided details for ringing carried out in the south of the County, and Robert Hall for Whitfield.

During 1989 D.G.B. has been responsible for ringing at Bockleton (Motlin's Hole), Brockhampton (Bromyard), Gatley, Mowley, Shobdon, Titley, Yatton and some ofWapley Hill. S.G.D. has ringed a wide variety ofspecies and has included nest box ringing at Paradise, Cann and Rowley Woods Presteigne and Bockleton (Romers Wood). 1.1. has ringed at Wigmore and Gamons, P.G. at Mary Knoll and A.M. at Moccas Park.

A total of2393 birds of44 species have been ringed, comprising 1005 FG and 1388 Pulli.

The 'Top 10' species were:

Pied Flycatcher 995 (132 FG 863 Pulli) Blue Tit 364 ( 77 FG 287 Pulli) Sand Martin 224 (allFG) Lesser Black-backed Gull 217 ( all FG ) Great Tit 166 ( 34 FG 132 Pulli) Nuthatch 52 ( 3FG 49 Pulli) Black-headed Gull 44 (allFG) Goldcrest 33 ( all FG ) Grey Wagtail 30 ( IFG 29 Pulli) Willow Warbler 29 ( all FG )

The following are selected from 'Identified' previously ringed birds of all species. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery data on the second. Unless otherwise stated all birds were released alive.

M- Male F- Female Pul. - Nestling Ad. - Adult FG - Fully Grown Juv. - Juvenile X- Found Dead B- Breeding

BLACK-HEADED GULL U436961 24.06.86 Pamu, Estonia, U.S.S.R. 27.02.88 Stretton Sugwas, Herefordshire (SGD) 1816km.

EP83106 27.02.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 01.12.88 Plymouth. Devon. 207km.

EP83079 27.02.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 08.02.89 Ainsdale, Merseyside. 173km. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 415

EN82347 17.01.87 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 19.03.89 Schleswig Holstein, Germany. 830km. EP83049 27.02.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 18.07.89 Weser Ems, Heligoland. 683km. LESSER BLACK·BACKED GULL GH56513 28.06.87 Ribble Marshes, Lancashire. 26.06.89 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 182km. c30.06.89 Brierley Farm, Leominster, Herefordshire (DGB) 167km. GG25570 05.07.88 Skomer, Dyfed. 26.06.89 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 175km. GG43389 06.07.86 Walney, Cumbria. 24.07.89 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 226km. GG61995 04.07.80 Flat Holm, Glamorgan 08.08.89 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 8lkm. GG397 II 10.01.87 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 11.05.89 Maidenhead, Strathclyde. 383km. GG39746 10.01.87 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 18.06.89 Rockcliffe Marsh, Cumbria. 323km. GG39556 10.01.87 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 31.08.89 Runcom, Cheshire. 139km. GG57923 19.09.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 16.09.89 Abingdon, Oxfordshire 112km.

GP76111 17.01.87 Stetton Sugwas (SGD) 24.09.89 Skomer, Dyfed. 175km.

The above 'Gull' recoveries do not include movements between Stretton Sugwas and Worcester and Gloucester, of which there were several.

SAND MARTIN E838163 Ad. F 30.06.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 12.07.89 Grimlcy, Holt, Worcestershire. 44km.59" 416 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

E838293 Ad. F 11.07.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) Grimley.

F084643 Ad. F 04.08.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 12.07.89 Grimley.

E838245 Juv. 11.07.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 01.07.89 Kidderminster, Worcs. 42km.52°

F084663 Juv. 04.08.88 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 04.07.89 Condover, Shrewsbury, Salop. 65km.02°

F298815 Ad. M 14.05.89 South Cerney, Cirencester Glos. 12.07.89 Strettun Sugwas (SGD) 58km.. 321 0

3408791 Juv. 05.08.88 Congis sur Therouanne, Seine et Marne, France. 30.06.89 Stretton Sugwas (SGD) 531km.31O"

PIED FLYCATCHER 248 Adult birds (168F, 79M, I?, 2.1: I) were handled in Herefordshire in 1989 of which 132 (97F, 35M, 2.8:1) were newly ringed and 116 (7IF, 44M + I?, 1.6:1) had already been ringed in previous years, 102 (66F, 36M, 1.8: 1) in Herefordshire and 14 (6F,8M, 0.7:1) elsewhere (Salop 9, Powys 3, Gloucestershire 2). In addition 8 (4F, 4M, I: I) previously ringed Herefordshire birds were found elsewhere (Salop 6, Gwent 1, Powys 1 ).

Ofthe 110 (102 + 8) ringed in Herefordshire and recovered somewhere, 52 had been ringed as Pulli and later had their sex ascertained as 30F and 21 M + I? (1.4: 1). One had been ringed in 1983,4 in 1984,3 in 1985, 13 in 1986, 16 in 1987 and 15 in 1988.

Analysis of site changes in Pulli retrapped at breeding sites showed that 21 returned to their place ofbirth (13F, 8M, 1.6: 1) and that 31 had moved elsewhere (16F, 14M, I?, 1.1:1). Site changes in Adults were shown by 7 (5F, 2M) and 51 (35F, 16M) returned to their site of original ringing as Adults.

B217400 Ad. F 23.05.83 Gatley, Herefordshire (DGB) B 21.05.89 Gatley (DGB) (Gatley '85, '86, '88)

B426750 Pul. (F) 11.06.86 Court Wood, Bredwardine, Herefordshire B 21.05.89 Moccas Park, Herefordshire (AM) (Moccas '87. '88)

B471345 Ad. F 01.06.83 Garnons, Herefordshire (JI) B 28.05.89 Garnons (11) (Garnons '88) HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 417

B471481 Pul. (F) 08.06.83 Gamons (H) B 21.05.89 Moccas Park (AM) (Moccas '85, '87)

B471755 Ad. F 09.06.84 Wigmore, Herefordshire (MN) B 06.06.89 Wigmore (H) (Wigmore '87)

B585104 Ad. M 12.06.82 Mary Knoll, Herefordshire (ClM) B 04.06.89 Mary Knoll (PG) ( Mary Knoll '85, '86, '87, '88)

B869108 Pul. (F) 07.06.84 Yatton, Herefordshire (DGB) B 21.05.89 Purlogue, Clun, Salop (L and A)

B869422 Pul. (F) 07.06.84 Gatley (DGB) B 28.05.89 Mary Knoll (PG) (Wapley, Herefs. '85, Mary Knoll '88)

B869537 Ad. F 19.05.85 Moccas Park (AM) B 14.05.89 Moccas Park (AM) (Moccas '86, '87, '88)

B869639 Pul. (F) 10.06.84 Gatley (DGB) B 28.05.89 Sibdon, Craven Arms, Salop (L and A)

B869932 Pul. (F) 24.06.84 Shobdon, Herefordshire (DGB) B 21.05.89 Mary Knoll (PG) (Mary Knoll '85, '87, '88)

C082542 Pul.(M) 23.06.85 Sibdon (JM and AFL) B 02.06.89 Romers Wood, Bockleton, Herefs. (SGD)

C296521 Pul.(M) 08.06.85 Mansel Lacy, Herefordshire (ClM) B 05.06.89 Gatley (DGB)

C298010 Pul.(M) 16.06.85 Mary Knoll (PG) B 05.06.89 Mary Knoll (PG)

C298020 Pul.(F) 16.06.85 Mary Knoll (PG) S 04.06.89 Mary Knoll (PG) (Mary Knoll '85, '87)

C473984 Pul.(M) 15.06.86 Purloguc, Clun (JML) B 30.05.89 Paradise, Presteigne (SGD)

C524293 Ad.F 26.05.86 Paradise (MS) S 30.05.89 Paradise (SGD)

C524306 Ad.1- 10.06.86 Staunton-on-Arrow, Herefordshire (MB) B 2705.89 Cwmyoy. Abergavenny. Gwent

C524380 Pul.(F) 16.06.86 Paradise (MB) B 22.05.89 Paradise (SGD)

C524390 Pul.(M) 16.06.86 Paradise (MB) B 05.06.89 Paradise (SGD)

C524425 Pul.(M) 16.06.86 Paradise (MB) 03.06.89 Newcastle, Clun, Salop (Wand C)

C524848 Ad.F 04.06.86 Gatley (DGB) 21.05.89 Gatley (DGB) (Gatley '87, '88)

C524884 Pul.(F) 11.06.86 Mowley Wood, Kington, Herefordshire (DGB) B 14.05.89 Mary Knoll (PG)

C525241 Pul.(M) 04.06.86 Gatley (DGB) B 31.05.89 Rhos-y-Meirch, Knighton, Powys (GA)

C525705 Ad.M 17.06.86 Gatley (DGB) B 06.06.89 Wigmore (H)

C525764 Pul.(F) 22.06.86 Mowley Wood (DGB) B 04.06.89 Shobdon (DGB)

C525990 Pul.(M) 31.05.87 Wapley (DGB) B 03.06.89 Newcastle, Clun (Wand C)

C525999 pule?) 31.05.87 Wapley (DGB) XB 08.06.89 Hope-under-Dinmore, Herefordshire.

C531108 Pul.(F) 15.06.88 Church Stretton, Salop (WAH) B 29.05.89 Gatley (DGB)

C747467 Pul.(F) 16.06.86 Staunton, Glos. (MB) B 29.05.89 Whitfield, Herefordshire (RH)

C895183 Pul.(M) 14.06.87 Llancillo, Pontrilas, Herefordshire (LRG) B 03.06.89 Whitfield (RH)

C895450 Ad.F 11.06.88 Llancillo (LRG) B 24.06.89 Moccas Park (AM)

C900371 Pul.(M) 15.06.86 Sibdon, Salop B 05.06.89 Gatley (DGB) (Gatley '88)

C980755 Pul.(F) 23.06.86 Knighton, Powys (JM and AFL) 30.05.89 Paradise (SGD)

C991416 Pul.(M) 22.06.86 Wigmore (MN) 06.06.89 Wigmore (H) HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 419

C991424 Pu1.(F) 22.06.86 Wigmore (MN) B 06.06.89 Wigmore (11)

C991453 Pu1.(F) 25.06.86 Wigmore (MN) B 27.05.89 Wigmore (11) (Wigmore '88)

EOOO156 Ad.M 15.06.86 Mary Knoll (PG) B 04.06.89 Mary Knoll (PG) (Mary Knoll '87)

EOO0953 Ad.F 05.06.88 Mary Knoll (PG) B 29.05.89 Whitfield (CJM)

EOO1602 Pu1.(M) 14.06.86 Mansel Lacy (ClM) B 07.06.89 Gamons (11)

EOOI648 Pul. (F) 14.06.86 Whitfield (ClM) B 14.05.89 Moccas Park (AM)

EOO1787 Pu1.(F) 06.06.86 Mary Knoll (PG) B 29.05.89 Gatley (DGB)

EOO1809 Pu1.(F) 21.06.86 Mansel Lacy (ClM) B 14.05.89 Moccas Park (AM)

E129460 Ad.F 18.06.86 Newbridge-on-Wye, Powys (FMS) B 30.05.89 Paradise (SGD)

E181868 Ad.F 24.05.87 Woolstaston, Church Stretton B 05.06.89 Mary Knoll (PG)

E346533 Pu1.(F) 30.05.87 Market Drayton, Salop B 21.05.89 Mary Knoll (PG)

E384930 Pu1.(M) 06.06.88 Hundred House, Powys (PPl) 03.06.89 Whitfield (RH)

E511776 Pul.(M) 11.06.88 Baunley Wood, Kinlet, Salop (DF) 10.06.89 Romers Wood, Bockleton (DGB)

E535118 Pul.(M) 10.06.87 Motlin's Hole, Bockleton (DGB) B 30.05.89 Kinlet, Bridgenorth, Salop (DF)

E535513 Pul.(Fl 09.06.88 Paradise (SGD) B Newcastle, Clun (Wand C)

E796102 Ad.F 29.05.88 Newcastle. Clun (Wand C) B 30.05.89 Paradise (SGD)

E796558 Pul.(M) 05.06.88 Newcastle, Clun (Wand C) B 30.05.89 Paradise (SGD) 420 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

E849679 PuI.(M) 18.06.88 Nagshead, Parkend, Glos. (SYRG) B 30.05.89 Cann Wood, Presteigne (SGD)

The above 54 recoveries are selected from 124 available. Those not detailed above include all ringed in 1987 and recovered locally. All birds ringed during and prior to 1986 are included

Key to Initials G. Austin, M. Baddeley, S.G. Dodd, D. Fulton, P. Gardner, W.A. Hotchkiss, J. Icke, P.P. Jennings, J.M. and A.E Langford, A. Marchant, c.J. Mead, M. Noble, P.EJ. Playford, EM. Slater, Whittles and Cross, L1ancillo Ringing Group, Severn Yale Ringing Group. D.G. Boddington HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 421

WEATHER NOTES AND OTHER JOTTINGS, 1989

January.

Temperatures were relatively high as the month began and it was the morning of the 5th before ground frost was recorded, followed by the first rain of any significance in the afternoon. White hoar on the 11 th was accompanied by a touch of air frost, but the only really cold spell, between the 17th and 20th quickly gave way to warmer weather and a brief wet period. Barometric pressure was high throughout, and average temperature markedly higher than usual. Although precipitation was recorded on 20 days, only 7 produced significant rainfall, the total for the month amounting to less than half the average.

Early bird song was a feature of the month with fair quality although incomplete Chaffinch song on the 9th, some warbling sub-song from the same bird on the 14th, and more general Chaffinch song by the 30th. Subdued Blackbird song was noted on 2nd and 14th, and full strength singing on the 28th. Stockdoves and Woodpigeons were giving voice before the end of the month while all the more usual singers at this time had long since been in full cry.

February.

Although February was mostly very mild it was nevertheless a month of marked contrasts. The morning of the Ist was positively spring-like, but just 24 hours later fog and a good white hoar prevailed following both ground and air frost. It continued mild or very mild with occasional slight frost at night until a touch of real winter made itself felt on the 17th. The preceding night was the coldest of the month, and the day began with fog and heavy falling snow quickly giving 3/4" of level ground cover, but happily it did not persist and mild air returned overnight. The final week was very wet with some snow in places, the higher hills showing at least a trace of white throughout this period, a phase due to an exceptionally deep depression affecting the County between the 24th and 26th. The Barometer reading on the 25th was notably low. It was a wet month with above average rainfall.

Fieldfares had been particularly plentiful during January and good numbers were to be seen all through February and into the first half of March. Redwings remained scarce throughout.

March.

Although mild it was rough and wet as thc month began, and while the wind soon moderated, it was the 5th before we enjoyed a dry day. Strong wind returned on the 12th, and following a calmer interlude, gale force was reached at times between the 22nd and 24th. Only 4 air frosts were noted but there were some 15, mostly minor in nature, at grass level. A trace of snow in the fourth week ensured that the highest hills were sometimcs white at this time. Rainfall was somewhat above average. The Institute for Terrestrial Ecology reported that the 1988/89 winter was the mildest in the U.K. since 1659 when records began. Be that as it may. in Herefordshire March was certainly the fOllrth month in sllccession to 422 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB enjoy above average temperatures, a warm winter indeed. The aurora borealis was visible mid-month.

Farmland Curlews nesting on higher ground arrived at a time more in accord with the normally earlier river meadow birds, and were to be heard in song during the first week of the month. An already well established Swallow at its breeding site, as distinct from frequenting just a good feeding area where most early birds are seen, was also of interest.

April.

The month opened with some fog on the morning of the 1st, together with maximum cloud cover and rain later in the day. It was cold with snow showers over higher ground on the 4th and 5th, the hills retaining at least a little snow cover until the 7th when there was a marked rise in temperature. A white frost early on the 8th was followed by a pleasant day, and it was rather warmer thereafter, despite a night frost able to cover standing water with ice as late as the 18th. A southerly gale on the 11th touched storm force at its peak during the afternoon. Rainfall was just a little above average.

Both sorts ofPartridge were vocal in early April, and on the 10th a pair ofRed legged were seen engaging in breeding preliminaries as they explored a length of hedge bottom with an accompaniment of vigorous calling by both birds.

May.

Early May was pleasant enough, but it really began to warm up on the 17th to become hot by the 19th. The period until the 24th produced some ofthe hottest May days for 25 years. Paradoxically there was an occasional touch of frost at grass level up to and including the morning of the 17th. It was a dry month with a notable deficiency in rainfall.

It was on the 20th March that a pair of Tree Sparrows were first noted taking an interest in their future nesting site, a fact occasionally emphasized by the fussy somewhat frantic notes that pass for song in this species. Nesting was successful, and eggs of the first brood hatched on 16th May, a not unusual schedule. In contrast the Starling breeding season was just a little early this year, young leaving the nest not long after the Tree Sparrow egg hatch.

June.

A trace of frost was measured at grass level on the morning of the 5th, not a good omen one might think, but ultimately June was most notable for the very hot weather that soon developed after the 10th. It was hot and particularly humid on the 12th, and the heat-wave continued daily until the 21 st when although early cloud soon gave way to sunshine it was much less warm. The 20th was the hottest day of the month. The serious rainfall deficit over the 88/89 winter making itself felt by this time, and the situation was not improved during June with another lower than average total. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 423

House Martins looked set for a particularly poor year when few birds appeared at the nonnal time, but a late influx in June improved the situation somewhat.

July.

July was an exceptionally sunny and another very wann month, although it became showery and dull at the very end. The hottest period occurred between the 21st and 23rd, and the highest temperature on the 22nd, all very reminiscent of the memorably hot July of 1976. On that occasion it was both very wann and dry, but in 1989 although there were 27 days without measurable rain, the total for the month was well up to average owing to heavy thunderstonns on the evening ofthe 6th followed by more rain overnight and throughout the 7th. A not unusual pattern of rainfall for July.

On the 10th a pair of Stockdoves were observed showing every sign oftaking over a this season's Magpie nest for their own use. A similar nest in the same tree had been utilised successfully by Stockdoves in at least one earlier year but this time it was not to be, the Magpie owners returned, and ousted the doves, but only after several days of dispute.

August.

The wann weather continued through most of August with particularly high temperatures on the 5th and 6th and again on 19th and 20th. It was however a less settled month with occasional rain, including a heavy stonn on the 9th and a thunderstonn on the 14th. The wind merited at least the "fresh breeze" category on 10 days during the month. There were also 10 days with measurable rain, but the total was well below the average figure.

August is the month when the main body of migrant Tree Pipits are to be seen on passage through the County with just a few late birds still around in early September. There was little visible passage this year and few late birds.

September.

It was cool on the 2nd, but a wann spell soon developed, the 6th being both wann and sunny with the following day even wanner but humid and often dull. Another cool day on the 8th preceded a showery spell which continued until the 18th. Heavy rain overnight on the 16/17th produced about half the month's rainfall. There were some wann days to enjoy in the fourth week, notably on the 24th, and the month ended splendidly with two pleasant sunny days. Total rainfall was again below average.

Comparative counts over the years showed that Robins were exceptionally numerous at this time, seeming to confinn other evidence of a good breeding season. A passage of Plovers was also of interest with many calls from passing Golden Plover in the early hours of the 23rd followed by the sight ofLapwing on a south easterly heading during the morning daylight hours. 424 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

October. Weather conditions were tolerably stable during the first half of the month with high barometric pressure throughout. The 17th was sunny and very mild, but there was fog on the 18th and early on 19th until rain and near gale force wind developed late in the day with the advent of a deep low pressure system. The barometer showed an equally low reading on the 20th with wind touching gale force at times over the next 48 hours. Another vigorous depression arrived on the 28th, and winds ofeven greater strength were noted. It was a wet month with well above average rainfall, the wettest spell occurring between 19th and 22nd. The song of the Woodpigeon was still to be heard with the regularity of summer days in the first week, but was soon to become occasional, as in most years. This diminution did not allow any let up in breeding effort, and young were noted just out of the nest on the 4th October, and again in mid December.

November. November began with pleasant enough weather, but it became cool on the 4th and there was fog on the 12/13th and during the latter part ofthe third week. The first of the season's hoar frosts was noted on the morning of the 6th, and night frosts were frequent towards the end of the month. A cold day on the 25th was followed by the lowest overnight temperature ofthe late 1989 period. Measurable precipitation was recorded every day until the 15th, with most rain during the first 10 days. The total figure was a little less than average. Foraging Woodpigeon were evident in greater numbers from early Novem ber. Close examination will show many of these large gatherings to consist mainly of first year birds, always scruffy in appearance and light in weight, some seeming almost emaciated in the hand. Many will not survive severe winter weather, and it hardly needs careful scientific weighing to determine why, the kitchen scales are good enough. While a mature bird may turn the scales at 21 ounces (perhaps even 24 ounces), a first winter is likely to be around only 15 ounces: one weighed at 12.5 ounces.

December. December began with frost and fog, and although an increase in temperature was noted on the 4th, mist and fog were frequent during the first 10 days. A white frost on the morning of the 11th, the lowest temperature of the month, was followed by rain overnight, and the start of a very wet spell which continued through to Christmas Eve. Some parts of the County enjoyed a light covering of snow for a time on the 19th, and a thunderstorm early on the 21 st. The post Christmas period was dull with maximum cloud cover, and the month ended as it had begun, with more fog. It was a very wet month with more than double average rainfall. As Redwings had been relatively scarce in the County for the past three winters, it was particularly good to see better numbers in the latter part ofthe year. In late December some feeding flocks even out-numbered accompanying Field fares. A.I.S. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 425

CLASSIFIED NOTES

The list follows the sequence and nomenclature of Prof. K.H. Voous (1977, List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species) as published in the 'British Birds' "List of birds ofthe Western Palearctic" 1978. CO denotes Club Outing, GP = gravel pits, NR = nature reserve, SP = sand pits. Square brackets denote a need for confirmation. Large numbers are generally approximations.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER Gavia immer.

A single present at Bodenham GP from Dec. 14th until 19th (pGB's et al).

This is only the sixth record for the County and the first since 1966. There was an influx of inland records of this species during December. Ed.

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis.

Two pairs bred at Mathon GP raising a minimum ofthree young (PGG) and single pairs bred at Hartleton Pools (KAM) and Wormsley Golf Course pool (GRG's), each raising two young. Reported from a further 12 localities during the year. Max. counts were: II at Mathon GP on Sept. 30th (including 5 juveniles), 6 in Holme Lacy area on Jan. 4th, 5 at Mathon GP on Nov 5th, 4 at Castleton on Jan 9th and the same number in Criftin Ford area on Feb. 18th and at Hampton Bishop on March 17th.

GREAT CRESTED CREBE Podiceps cristatus.

Single pairs bred at Eywood NR (JHW et al) and Mathon GP (PGG) each raising four young to flying stage, and a single pair bred at Hartleton Pools (KAM). No breeding apparently occurred at Bodenham GP although birds were present throughout the year with max. 7 in Feb./March (PGB). The only other reports were: Sept.1 Oth, Castleton Wye, I (AM); Oct. 8th/9th, Hoarwithy Wye, ajuvenile (CWS).

CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo.

Recorded from eight localities along the Wye during the periods Jan. - April and Aug. - Dec. The larger counts were:

Backney. Nov. 3rd. 5 (PGG)

Ballingham. Jan. 7th, 34; Oct. 7th, 15 (IBE's).

Carey Islands roost. Sept. 19th and 24th, 20+ (KAM).

Castleton. Jan. 22nd,4 (CO); March 27th. min. 7 (AM); April 2nd. 9 (AJS); Aug. 27th, 9; Sept. 2nd, 10: Scpt. 17th, min. 14 (AM): Sept. 30th, 10 (KAM); Dec. 9th. 9 (AM). 426 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

Fownhope. Dec. 10th, 22 (PGG).

Foy. Feb. 14th, 6 (PGG).

Ho1me Lacy. Jan. 5th, 8; Aug. 26th, 6; Oct. 8th, 11 (JLF).

Letton. Jan. 22nd, 3 (CO).

Away from the Wye the larger counts were as follows:

Bodenham GP. Jan. max. 21; Feb. max. 15; March, max. 18; April, max. 3; July, 1; Aug. max. 2; Oct. max. 3; Nov. max. 5; Dec. max.24 (PGB).

The Monnow below Kentchurch. Feb. 25th, max .10 (SIT).

Elsewhere 1 - 4 birds noted at Criftin Ford, Ho1me Marsh, Leintwardine and Lugg meadows.

NIGHT HERON Nycticorax nycticorax.

Jan. 16th - 18th, Hindwell Brook, Rodd (Powys), an adult seen sitting in tree and flying up and down brook within both Herefordshire and Powys (BN per JH). (Fourth record).

Two records in successive years of this County rarity is remarkable. Ed.

GREY HERON Ardea cinerea.

Widely reported throughout the County during the year. As in 1988 no counts were received from the heronries at Berrington, Foy, Kentchurch and Leach Pool. The single pair which bred at Moccas in 1987 and 1988 did not return to breed this year. The larger counts were as follows: Jan. 9th, Leach Pool, 5 (KAM); Jan. 22nd, Letton, 8 (CO); June 24th, Hampton Bishop, 11 (JLF); Sept. 2nd, Cast1eton, min. 5 (AM).

MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor.

During the first winter/spring period the larger counts were: Jan. 22nd, Letton, 28 (CO); Feb. 4th, Hampton Bishop, 15 and 19 there on 16th (JLF); Feb. 14th, Ross - Cubberly Wye, 10 (PGG). Successful breeding confinued at Bodenham GP (1 pair), Hampton Bishop (2 pairs) and Linton (2 pairs). Adults with cygnets/well grown young, some or all of which may have bred locally, noted as follows: Castleton, 3 pairs + 11 juveniles; Hereford - How Caple Wye, 54 adults + 39 cygnets on July 8th - this count undoubtedly includes those pairs with cygnets/ well grown young noted on Wye on various dates at Carey Islands,Fownhope, Ho1e-in-the-Wall, Holme Lacy Bridge/Church area and Sink Green; Wall HilL near Ledbury, pair with 5 cygnets. During the autumn/second winter period the larger counts were: Sept. 2nd, Castleton, 33 (AM); Oct. 1st, Belmont Wye, 11 (RHS); Oct. 4th, Hampton Bishop. 28 (JLF); Dec. 21st. Clifford Wye. 20 (PGG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 427

BEWICK'S SWAN Cygnus columhianus.

Jan. 9th - Feb. 1st, Clifford, max. 23 present throughout the period (AJS et al); Dec. 21st, Winforton, 19 (PGG).

WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus

Jan. 9th - Feb. 1st, Clifford, 15 present throughout the period (AJS et al); Feb. 18th, Leominster, 2 in flight over by-pass (PGB).

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser albifrons.

A single present at Bodenham GP March 10th - Apri127th (PGB) and a single on Wye at Capler on Oct. 23rd (MB).

GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser.

Single birds noted at Linton on Jan. 13th (KAM) and at Bodenham GP on Jan. 25th, April 10th, July 11th, Aug. 17th and Dec. 16th (PGB et al).

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis.

Breeding confirmed at Belmont GP, Eywood NR, Kentchurch, Moccas Park, Wall Hill (near Ledbury) and Wormsley Golf Course. At Bodenham GP the maxima monthly counts were: Jan. 123; Feb. 127; March 33; April29; May 53, June clOO; July 90; Aug.131; Sept. 134; Oct. 128; Nov. 184; Dec. 126 (PGB).

At Castleton the maxima were: Jan. 9th, c250 and Dec. 21st, 280. Other large counts were: Jan. 13th, Linton, 22; Jan. 22nd, Clifford area, 200+ and cl50 at Letton on the same date; Feb. 13th, Combe Moor, 52. Elsewhere counts of 1 - 20 birds noted at Hampton Bishop, Kenchester and Mathon GP.

BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis. c55 noted at Clifford on Jan. 3rd where they remained for at least 3 weeks. (This same flock was also noted at Bronydd, Powys, between Dec. 29th 1988 - Feb. 20th 1989 - per W.O.S. Report 1989).

These birds were considered to be part of the flock of wild birds which has wintered annually at Bittell Reservoir (Wares.) since 1984. Ed.

Elsewhere 1 - 2 birds present at Bodenham GP Jan. - July and a wandering individual noted at various localities during the year were undoubtedly 'escapes'.

SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna.

Feb. I st, Hampton Bishop, I (JLF); April 20th, Bodenham GP, I (PGB). 428 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

WIGEON Anas penelope. Present throughout Jan.jMarch at Bodenham GP - max. counts 28 on Jan. 25th, 42 on Feb. 9th and 32 on March 10th (PGB). The only other large counts during this period were: Feb. 1st, Kenchester, 10 (PJE) and Feb. 18th, Criftin Ford area, c20 (CO). Elsewhere during the first winter period I - 9 birds were noted at Castleton, Foy, Letton, and Sink Green. A single female at Bodenham GP on April 6th (PGG) was the last reported in spring. A single at Eywood NR on Sept. 6th (AJS's) was the only autumn bird reported and there were no further reports until November when 13 present at Bodenham G.P. (PGB). A single was on Lugg meadows on Dec. 6th, 3 at Eywood NR on 7th, 30+ at Castleton on 9th and c70 there on 21st and 23 at Bodenham G.P. on the same date (RWR et al).

GADWALL Anas strepera. Hartleton Pools, Unton. Jan. 6th, 15 drakes and 10 ducks; Jan. 14th, 41; Feb. 14th, 15 drakes and 12 ducks; May 19th, 2 (KAM et al). Elsewhere records were as follows: Feb 9th, Totnor, cl0 (KAM); Feb. 17th, Hampton Bishop, a pair (JLF), May 5th, Backney, a pair (KAM) and noted there on 8th (WOO); May 7th, Hole in-the-Wall, a pair (WOO). June 4th, How Caple Wye, pair with 8 young (CO).

TEAL Anas crecca. The larger counts during the year were: Jan. 17th, Eywood NR, el2 (AJS); Feb. 2nd, Leintwardine, 30 (!BE's); Feb 18th, Criftin Ford area, c15 (CO); Sept. 19th, Eywood NR, 85 (AJS's) and 35 there on Oct. 26th (HTR). Elsewhere I - 10 birds noted at Bodenham GP, Castleton, Combe Moor (R. Lugg), Kenchester, Leach Pool, Linton, Lugg meadows, Mathon GP, Moccas and Sink Green.

MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos. A common breeding resident. The larger counts were: Feb. 9th, Totnor, c60 (KAM); Feb. 14th, c200 on Wye near Ross, 105 Ross - Cubberley Wye and 86 on Wye at Foy; Aug. 9th, Fownhope Wye, c 130 (PGG); Sept. 6th, Eywood NR, 200 (AJS's); Sept. 17th, Castleton, 100+ (AM); Oct. 15th, Shobdon, 60 (!BE's); Nov. 3rd, The Mynde, Much Dewchurch, 93 (PGG).

GARGANEY Anas querquedula. May 11th, Bodenham GP, two drakes in full breeding plumage (PGB).

SHOVELER Anas clypeata.

1988 Bodenham GP, an immature male Feb. 21 st - 28th, a pair on March 6th and 15th and a single drake on March 21st (PGB's); Dec. 21st, Eywood NR, a pair (AJS).

1989 Eywood NR, single drakes noted Jan. 17th and Oct. 16th, 10 birds there on Nov. 28th and 16 on Dec. 7th (AJS's). Two at Bodenham GP on April 20th and June 1st (PGB). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 429

POCHARD Aythyaferina.

Bodenham GP. Present throughout Jan/March with maximum counts 47 on Jan. 25th and 51 on Feb. 23rd. Three noted on June 22nd and present there Sept, - Dec. with max. 30 on Dec. 21st (PGB).

Castleton Wye, three on Jan. 9th and single drakes on Feb. 15th and Dec. 9th (KAM et al).

Eywood NR. Six, including a single female on Jan. 17th (AJS).

Unton. Two on Jan. 6th and six on Jan. 13th and Feb. 14th (PGG et al).

Mathon GP. Two on Sept. 30th and Oct. 29th, 5 on Nov. 19th, lion 25th, 13 on Dec. 9th and 15 on Dec. 31 st (PGG).

A single drake noted at Letton on Jan. 22nd (CO).

FERRUGINOUS DUCK Aythya nyroca.

The drake present at Linton during Nov./Dec. 1988 remained to at least Jan. 9th (PGG).

TUFTED DUCK Aythyafuligula.

Recorded throughout the year and breeding confirmed at Mathon GP.

Bodenham GP. Monthly max. counts: Jan. 42; Feb. 38; March 32; April 9; May 23; June 33; July 26; Aug. 15; Sept. 30; Oct. 54; Nov. 25; Dec. 40 (PGB).

Eywood NR. Jan. 17th, 36, including 22 males; Oct. 16th, 25; Oct. 26th, 29.

Linton. Jan. 6th, 2; Feb. 14th, 2; April 6th, I I; May 19th, 14.

Mathon GP. Monthly max, counts Jan 2; Feb. 3; March 16 (9 drakes and 7 females); April 12; July 23; Sept. 9; Oct. 7; Nov. 5; Dec. 8. Two pairs bred successfully raising a total of 15 young (PGG).

Elsewhere records were as follows; Feb. 1st. Kenchester, 6 (PJE); March 27th, Castleton,4 (AM); May 10th, Wormsley Golf Course. a pair (GRG's); Dec. 27th, Lugwardine. 15 (lBE's). Birds present at Moccas Park throughout the year (AM).

GOLDENEYE Bucephala c!angula.

Castleton Wye. Jan. 9th, 5; Jan. 22nd. 7; Feb. 15th, 7; Dec. 9th, 2 (KAM et all. Elsewhere a single drake at Sink Green on Jan. 13th (lLF) and 4 birds at Letton on Jan. 22nd (CO). 430 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

GOOSANDER Magus merganser.

Recorded throughout the year and bred for the second year in succession. Records come principally from along the Wye at Castleton (max. 50+ on Dec. 9th), Foy, Hoarwithy, Holme Lacy, Letton, Sink Green (max. 33 on Oct. 8th) and Wilton, along the Lugg at Aymestrey, Combe Moor and Lugwardine and along the Teme at Criftin Ford, Downton, Leintwardine and Trippleton. Elsewhere records come from Bodenham GP, (max. 49 on Dec. 15th), Eywood NR and Lyonshall/Spond Valley where 20 noted flying up valley on Sept. 14th.

RUDDY DUCK Oxyurajamaicensis.

May 20th, Berrington, 2 drakes on farm reservoir (Lord Cawley et al); Sept. 3rd - 9th, Mathon GP, a female (PGG).

RED KITE Milvus milvus.

March 24th, near Ivington, 2 noted (George White); Aug. 3rd, Ledbury, one (D. Laventy, per IBE); Oct., near Leintwardine, one (per IBE); early Dec., Wigmore area, one (probably the Leintwardine bird) present for at least a week before being found poisoned (JJC).

Attempts were begun in 1989 to establish new Kite populations in England and Scotland using mainly Swedish stock but also some birds from the Welsh population. The Leintwardine bird formed part of this introduction scheme and came from the Welsh population. Ed.

GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis.

Bred at one locality and a female noted in east of the County in early Sept.

SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus.

Records are numerous throughout the year and come from 34 localities within the County. Frequently noted preying on birds at garden feeding stations and among the avian prey taken were Blackbird, Dunnock, Greenfinch, House Sparrow and Tit spp. Elsewhere noted chasing Dipper and Grey Wagtail (SJT).

BUZZARD Buteo huteo.

As with the above species records are numerous throughout the year and come from 30 localities within the County. Breeding confirmed at four sites and probably bred at two other sites. The larger counts were: Jan. 28th, Merbach Hill, 7 (EAM); Feb. 18th, Criftin Ford area, 4 (CO); April 12th, Holme Marsh, 9 (AJS); Sept. 19th, Westhope Hill, 5 (GNS's); Sept. 30th, Leintwardine, 5 (lBE's); Oct. 8th, Holme Marsh, 8 (AJS's). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 431

KESTREL Falco tinnunculus.

Recorded throughout the year from 27 localities widely distributed throughout the County. Breeding confirmed at two localitities and undoubtedly bred elsewhere in suitable habitat.

MERLIN Falco columbarius.

Breeding noted at one locality and a single noted in suitable habitat in spring.

HOBBY Falco subbuteo.

Single passage birds noted on three dates, one in spring and two in early autumn.

PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus.

Birds from the Symonds Yat site seen frequently during the year. Other records involved a pair in suitable habitat at the beginning ofthe year and reports ofsingle birds on eight other dates, four in first winter/spring period, one early summer, two in autumn and one during second winter period.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa.

The largest counts were 12 which regularly roosted at Goodrich Castle during the year (per MPW) and 9 at Bridstow on Oct. 31st (WOD). Elsewhere records came from Acton Beauchamp, Ballingham, Bodenham, Foy, Holme Marsh, Leintwar dine, Linton, Mathon GP and Rushall.

GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix

The larger counts were: July 10th, Hole-in-the-Wall, covey of 12 (GNS's/ KAM's); Aug. 28th, Thruxton, 14 (WOD); Sept. 24th, Westhope Hill, covey of clO (GNS's). Elsewhere recorded during the year at Bacton, Criftin Ford area, Holme Marsh, How Caple, Kings Caple, Milton Hill, Much Marc1e, Stansbatch, Upper Maund Common and Wall Hills (near Ledbury).

QUAIL Coturnix cotumix.

Following the warmest May for many years 1989 has been a 'Quail' year with widespread records from late May through to mid-August. Localities are as follows: Adley Moor, Bredenbury (bred), Bridge Sollars. Hardwicke, How Caple area, Kenchester area, near Linton, Merbach Hill, Middlewood area, Munder field, Newton St. Margarets, Orcop, Peterchurch, Tretire, Upper Maund, Weobley area, Westhope Hill and Winforton.

PHEASANT Phasial1l1s colchiclIs.

A common breeding resident. 432 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

WATER RAIL Ral/us aquaticus.

March 18th, Walney Lane, Hereford, one by stream on edge of Lugg meadows (EAG); Nov. 29th/30th, Bredwardine, one on edge of Wye opposite Lions Den Kennels (SC).

CORNCRAKE Crex crex.

Whitboume, 3 or 4 noted third week of May and call heard subsequently by Preb. W. Chignell (per DGB). This is the first record since 1980. Ed.

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus.

Breeding noted near Brilley and at Hoarwithy, Mathon GP and Much Marcle. Records from other localities widely distributed throughout the County suggest a good breeding season.

COOT Fulica atra.

Breeding confirmed at Eywood NR, Mathon GP, Moccas Park and Wormsley Golf Course and undoubtedly bred at other suitable sites. At Bodenham GP the max. monthly counts were: Jan./Feb. 64; March 34; April 28; May 13; June 23; July 37; Aug. 34; Sept. 43; Octo 39; Nov. 80; Dec. 79. A late summer gathering at Eywood NR peaked at 110 in mid-Sept. and 71 were still there on Octo 26th.

[PRATlNCOLE sp. Giat'eola pratincola/nordmanni.

July 21st, Townend Farm, Bosbury, a single noted by JHA and brief notes made which were forwarded to the'British Birds' Rarities Committee which considered that this record was, at best, no more than 'possibly this species ']

The only confirmed record for the County is ofa Collared Pratincole G. pratincala shot at Fownhope in 1854 Ed.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius duhius.

At least one pair bred. Two passage birds noted along the Wye in April and three birds in suitable habitat in late May. two of which were displaying on 23rd and a single displaying on 26th. A single noted beside the Wye for two days in mid July and a single autumn passage bird noted at a further locality on Sept. 21 st.

RINGED PLOVER Charadrills hialiclIla.

Sept. loth. Holmc Marsh. a single noted on plough UdS). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 433

GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria. The main wintering flock was concentrated during both winter periods in the Three Elms area of Hereford with max. counts of 500+ on Feb 19th (IBE's) and c 1100 on Dec. 20th (BMK). Elsewhere 21 were noted at Shobdon on Oct. 15th (IBE's) and overnight passage noted at Holme Marsh in early hours Oct. 22nd/ 23rd (AJS's). The wintering flock at Three Elms is the largest to be recorded within the County for a decade. Ed.

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus. No confirmed breeding records received but undoubtedly bred in small numbers in suitable habitat where noted displaying in spring. The largest first winter flock was noted in Three Elms area ofHereford during Jan./Feb. with max. 2400 on Jan. 17th. Smaller flocks during this period were: Jan. 22nd, Castleton, c450 (CO) and 100+ at Whitney on the same date (AJP); Feb 13th, Grendon Green, c600; Feb. 14th, Much Marcle, c250 (PGG). An early post-breeding flock of 49 birds was noted at Mathon GP on June 17th (PGG) and passage birds particularly noticeable July - Sept. with flocks of 100 - 600 birds noted at Castleton, Hampton Bishop, Holme Lacy and Sink Green (AM et al). Second winter flocks of note were; Oct. 15th, Shobdon, 300+ (IBE's) and c150 at Wilton on the same date (WOD); Dec. 18th/19th, Lugg Meadows, 500+ (IBE's et al).

DUNLIN Calidris alpina. July 30th, Mathon GP, one in full breeding plumage (PGG); Aug. 24th, Castleton, one (JVF).

JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus. Single birds noted at Mathon GP on Dec. 9th and 31st (PGG).

SNIPE Gallinago gallinago. Mathon GP, counts were as follows: Jan. 7th, 8; Feb. 5th, 10; March 4th, 16; March 18th, 15; April 2nd, 10; Sept. 9th, I (first returning bird); Sept. 17th,3; Sept. 30th, 6; Oct. 5th, 5; Oct. 21st, 8; Oct. 29th, 13; Nov. 5th, 9; Nov. 19th, 7; Dec. 9th, 5; Dec. 17th, 24; Dec. 31 st, 20 (PGG). The only other large counts were: Feb 13th, Combe Moor, 46; Feb. 15th, Castleton, 12 (PGG); Nov. 10th, Backney Common, 10 (KAM). Elsewhere records of I - 5 birds came from Belmont GP, Bodenham GP, Fownhope, Hampton Bishop, Holme Marsh, Kington area, the Lugg meadows near Hereford, Lugwardine, Sink Green and Stansbatch.

WOODCOCK Sc%pa.r rllstico/a. Feb 13th, Combe Moor, one (PGG); Feb. 18th, Wigmore Rolls, one tlushed (CO); March - June, Haugh Wood, 'roding' (KAM); May 7th, Dinmore Wood. 'roding' 434 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

(PT); May 8th, Mansel Lacy, one (JVF); June 4th, west side of Malvems, one 'roding' (PGG); Nov. 25th, Upper Welson, one flushed (JHW); Dec. 31 st, Mathon GP, one (PGG).

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus. Single passage birds noted at Holme Marsh on April 12th (AJS) and at Common Hill on May 6th (KAM).

CURLEW Numenius arquata. Breeding confirmed at Holme Marsh (AJS) and Newton (RGD) and probably bred in Mathon area (PGG) and at Upper Maund Common (PGB). 1 - 5 birds noted March - Dec. at Belmont, Brilley, Castleton, Leintwardine, Longtown area, Mathon GP, Monnington, Much Marcle, St. Margarets, Sink Green and Tretire.

SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus. A single noted at Eywood NR on Sept. 6th (AJS's). This is only the fourth record for the County and the first since 1976 Ed.

REDSHANK Tringa totanus. March 17th Bodenham GP, one (PGB), March 27th, Castleton, one (AM); April 15th, Mathon GP, one (PGG); July 16th, Castleton, one (AM); Sept. 30th, Tupsley, one noted flying over (lEE's); Nov. 1st, Holme Marsh, c20 flying south east and calling early morning (AJS's).

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia. Bodenham GP. A single on Aug. 10th (PGB). Castleton. Singles noted on July 16th and 18th and Aug. 26th (AM). Hampton Bishop. Singles noted on July 16th, Aug. 15th and Oct. 24th (JLF). Wergins Bridge. A single beside the Lugg on July 31 st OR).

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus.

The largest counts were 3 at pool near Bunshill, Kenchester on July 4th (PGB) and 3 at Castleton on Aug. 7th (AM). Records of single birds from Belmont, Bodenham GP, Castleton, Fownhope, Hampton Bishop, Letton and Stretton Sugwas covering three distinct periods - Jan., July/Aug. and Nov./Dec.

WOOD SANDPIPER Tringa glareola.

Sept. 2nd. Sink Green, a single flushed several times (JVF). (Eleventh record). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 435

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos. Two at Sink Green on April 22nd (JLF) were the first returning birds reported and recorded thereafter during the summer/early autumn from Backney, Castleton, Eywood NR, Hampton Bishop, Holme Marsh and Staunton Park. Breeding confirmed between Goytre and Altyrynys (3 - 4 pairs) and near Llangiwa (1 pair) (SJT). The larger counts were: June 30th, Backney, 5 (WaD); July 16th, Castleton, 10 and min. 20 there on 18th, including 14 at roost on shingle bank (AM); July 20th, Hampton Bishop, 7 (JLF) and 4 there on Aug. 6th (KAM); Sept. 8th, Eywood NR, 4 (AJS's).

BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus. Noted throughout the year, the larger counts were: Feb 26th, Newton, 252 (RGD) and Dec. 19th, Lugwardine, 400+ (lEE's). There were no breeding records submitted but presumably bred at usual gullery at Madley. Frequently noted in flight to and from roost sites at Llangorse/Talybont and the Severn Estuary.

COMMON GULL Larus canus. The only large counts reported were: Feb. 23rd, Bodenham GP, 114 (PGB) and Dec. 31st, near Capler Wye, c275 (KAM). Noted elsewhere in small numbers during Jan. - March and mid-July - end of year.

LESSER BLACK·BACKED GULL Larusfuscus. The larger counts during the year were; Jan. 22nd, Letton, c50 (CO); June 20th 22nd, Bodenham GP, max. 500 (PGB et al); Aug. 1st, Stretton Sugwas, c400 (SD); Aug. 27th, Castleton, 20 (AM); Sept. 25th, north of Leominster, c50; act. 7th, Holme Marsh, min. 54; act. 16th, Lyonshall, 29 (AJS's); Dec. 8th, Boden ham GP, 53 (PGB); Dec. 31st, near Capler Wye, c20 (KAM). I -7 birds noted at Belmont tip, Brampton Abbots, Castleton, Hay on Wye and Holme Lacy.

HERRING GULL Larus agentatus. March 8th, Hampton Bishop, one flying eastwards (PGB); July 18th, Plough Lane, Hereford, an adult with Black-Headed Gulls (AJS). A single 'yellow-legged' bird of the western Mediterranean race Larus cachinnans michahellis noted at Stretton Sugwas on July 17th (SD).

BLACK TERN Childonias niger. June 20th, Bodenham GP. one (SD).

STOCK DOVE Columha oows.

A common breeding resident and widespread throughout the County in suitable habitat. The larger counts were: Jan. 10th. Holme Marsh. c50 (AJS); Feb. 1st, 436 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

Leach Pool, c24; Feb. 9th, Totnor, c30, Feb. 22nd, Kings Caple, c40 (KAM); June 6th, Newton, 12 (RGO); Nov. 12th, Holme Marsh, 12 (AJS's).

WOODPIGEON Columba palumbus. A common and widespread breeding resident.

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto. A widespread breeding resident. The only flock reported was 30+ at Holme Marsh on Nov. 26th (AJS's).

TURTLE DOVE Steptopelia turtur. The first reported was at Bodenham village on May 6th (PGB). Widely reported throughout May and during the subsequent summer months.

RING-NECKED PARAKEET Psittacula krameri. Aug. 6th, Hampton Bishop, one, possibly two, noted (JLF). (Third record).

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus. An early bird heard at Upper Brilley Court on April 3rd (WL-S). The main arrival occurred around April 20th and heard subsequently from 15 localities widely distributed throughout the County. Last noted at Newton on June 25th (RGD).

BARN OWL Tyto alba. Another good year for records. Breeding confirmed at four sites although at one ofthese the adults and/or young were found decapitated. Single birds noted during the year at Bridstow, Eardisley, Hoarwithy, Honeymoor Common, Kenchester, Kingsland, Larport (Frome), Leominster by-pass, Letton, Leintwardine, Maund Bryan Common, Much Marcle, Preston Wynne, Willersley, Winforton and Withington.

LITTLE OWL Athene noctua. A common and widespread breeding resident. At Holme Marsh AJS reported that the recovery from its complete disappearance from the area in 1986 had been maintained.

TAWNY OWL Stri, alum. The only breeding record submilted was a pair with four young noted at Tupsley in Sept. (per IBE). but undoubtedly bred at suitable sites elsewhere within the County. Seven were heard calling at Stansbatch on Sept. 16th OMB/JLF's) and noted during the year at Bacton, Brilley. Oormington, Fownhope, How Caple area, Kington, Lugwardine, The Malverns. Newton, Sailers Hope, Upper Maund and Wapley Hill. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 437

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus. April 19th, Foy, one calling from Hillcrest area to north (PGG).

SHORT-EARED OWL Asio flammeus. April 16th, Winforton, one noted (FV).

SWIFT Apus apus. The first reported were 12 over Hereford on April 29th (AM) and, following the main arrival during the first week of May, noted throughout the breeding season until early August. The last reported were single birds at Holme Marsh (AJS) and Tupsley (lVF) on Sept. 4th.

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis. Resident and breeding with a multitude of records throughout the year from the rivers Wye, Lugg, Teme and Arrow and along many small streams within the County. Records most years are generally of single birds but this year there were many reports of 2 - 4 birds together and it would appear that the recent spell of mild winters has enabled the local population to increase.

GREEN WOODPECKER Pieus viridis. A widely distributed breeding resident in suitable habitat. Recorded throughout the year from Bishopstone, Bodenham, Bredwardine, Bridstow, Broadmoor Common, Burghill, Common Hill, Goodrich, Hoarwithy, The Malvems, Mathon GP, Much Marcle, Newton, Olchon, Ross, Rushall, St. Owen's Cross, Sink Green, Sollers Hope and Woolhope.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendroeopus major. A common breeding resident and widely reported throughout the year.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor. Feb. 2nd, near Bodenham GP, a female (PGB); March 17th, Hampton Bishop, one and again on April 28th; May 13th, Titley, one (lVF); July 20th, Common Hill, one heard (KAM); Aug. 2nd, Holme Marsh, one calling (AJS); Aug. 13th, Bodenham GP, one calling; Aug. 23rd, Common Hill, heard calling and 2 heard and seen Sept. 3rd/4th (KAM); Oct, 29th, near Belmont Pool, one (DJS's/RHS); Dec. 19th, Hoarwithy, one (CWS).

SKYLARK Alauda al'1'ensis. A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and widely reported throughout the year. Feb. 5th, Criftin Ford Bridge area, min. 30 (AM). Late summer movement first noted Sept. 14th with peak passage mid-Oct. (AJS). Nov. 3rd. Linton, c60 (pGG); Nov. 21st, Holme Marsh. c40 noted in fog (AJS's). 438 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia.

The first reported was a single at Wilton on March 13th (WOD) with the main arrival during the last week of March and the first week of April. Numbers have continued to improve and with a very successful breeding season once again the recovery ofthis species will hopefully be maintained. The last reported were three at Castleton on Sept. 17th. (AM).

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica.

The first reported were singles at Holme Marsh on March 30th (AJS) and at Harewood End on March 31 st (WOD) and regularly noted thereafter throughout the County. Post-breeding flocks reported were: Aug. 18th, Holme Marsh, c50 and a mixed flock ofc130 Swallows and House Martins there on Aug. 28th (AJS); Sept. 26th, Burghill, 30 and the same number there on Oct. 3rd (GRG's). The last reported were four at Stansbatch on Oct. 17th (JMB).

HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urhica.

Four at Staunton-on-Wye on March 28th (SC) were the first reported and noted within the County thereafter following two distinct arrival periods, the first in mid-April and the second in early June. MPW reported a steady decline in numbers in Goodrich Castle area over the past 20 years, but generally numbers would appear to be similar to 1988. The last reported were; Oct. 2nd, Mathon/ West Malvern area, c53 flying south (PGG); Oct. 3rd, Burghill, c20 (GRG's).

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis.

A single at Queen's Wood, Dinmore on April 12th (HS) was the first reported. Recorded thereafter at Brilley Green Dingle, Haugh Wood, the Malvems and Merbach Hill. AJS reported an absence from a number of sites in the north-west of the County and very little visible late summer passage. Last noted Sept. 3rd at Holme Marsh (AJS) and North Hill (West), Malvern (PGG).

With few records submitted and AJS's comments above it would appear that this species was noticeably scarce in the County this year. Whether this is the beginning of a decline in numbers generally for some reason or other only time will tell. Ed.

MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis.

A breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor and more widespread within the County than the following records suggest. Noted during January at Bishopstone (c25 on 27th). Hampton Bishop, Letton and Newton. March 31st, Olchon, 12; Sept. 3rd, Holme Marsh, first passage noted with main movement Sept. 21 st - 25th; Sept. 17th, Castleton, 10 and c 15 there on 23rd. Autumn/second winter counts at Mathon GP were: Oct. 21 st, 20, Oct. 29th, coO. Nov. 25th, c30 and Dec. 9th, 26. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 439

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacillajlava.

Two at Backney on April 1st (CO) were the first reported and recorded thereafter at Aston Crews area, Brampton Abbots, Bodenham GP, Castleton, Clifford Common, Criftin Ford Bridge, Fownhope, Holme Lacy, Holme Marsh, Kings Caple, near L1angarron, Monnow Valley, Perrystone, Sink Green, Staunton-on Arrow, Stretton Sugwas and Westhope Hill. The last reported were c40 passage birds at Fownhope on Sept. 17th.

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea.

A breeding resident widely distributed within the County in suitable habitat and also noted as a passage migrant and winter visitor. Records come from Altrynynys, Belmont, Bodenham GP, Bridstow, Brilley (bred), Carey, Castleton (bred), Clodock, Combe Moor, Craswell (bred), Criftin Ford Bridge, Cusop, Dulas, Hampton Bishop, Hereford City, Holme Marsh, Leach Pool area, Ledbury, Leintwardine, Letton, L1angiwa, Longtown (bred), Mathon GP, Much Dewchurch, Newton, Olchon Valley (min. 2 pairs bred), Pontrilas, St. Owen's Cross, Sink Green, Stansbatch, Tillington, Trippleton, between West Malvern and Mathon, Wilton and Wormsley GolfCourse. Also noted along the Monnow between Broad Oak and Skenfrith and between Goytre and Maendy.

PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla alba yarrellii.

A common breeding resident and passage migrant. At Mathon GP pre-roost gatherings beside the pool were noted as follows: Jan. 7th, c90; March 4th, c70; March 18th, c50; July 21 st, c80; July 30th, c75; Nov. 25th, 22 (PGG). Otherlarge counts were; Feb. 2nd, Combe Moor, c20 (PGG); Sept. 17th, Castleton, c20 (AM); Oct. - Dec., Wilton, c60 at night roost (WOD); Dec. 21 st, Clifford, 67 (pGG).

White Wagtails M. a. alba were noted at Castleton on April 8th (AJS) and Dulas on Sept. 2nd (RGD).

Autumn records of White Wagtails are uncommon due to the difficulty in separating alba and yarrellii birds in autumn plumage. The Dulas bird, however, presented no such problems being an adult female in summer plumage. Ed.

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus.

Breeding confirmed near Altrynynys and at Clodock. Craswell (3 pairs), Goytre, L1ancillo, L1angiwa, Longtown, Olchon Valley (min. 3 pairs), Pontrilas, Upper Lye and Whitchurch (SJT et al). Other records during the year were: Jan. 29th, Rodd, near Presteigne. 2; Feb. 2nd. Aymestrey. 2 pairs (KAM's/GNS's); Feb. 13th, Combe Moor. 2 pairs on Lugg (pGG); Feb. 19th. Buekton Bridge, pair on Teme (BD); Feb. 23rd, near Bodenham GP, one on Lugg (PGB); May 6th. Shirley Farm, near Upper Lye, 2 by Lugg (WL-S); July 22nd, Aymestrey, one; Aug. 9th. Clock Mills, Castleton, one (pGG). Also noted throughout the year at Cusop (GCC) and on the Arrow at Staunton-on-Arrow (RM). 440 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

WREN Troglodytes troglodytes. A common breeding resident and a good breeding season reported.

DUNNOCK Prunella modularis. A common breeding resident very much under-recorded.

ROBIN Erithacus ruhecula. A common breeding resident. AJS reported that counts indicated exceptional numbers in the north-west of the County in Sept.

NIGHTINGALE Luscinia megarhynchos. May 18th, Bromyard Downs, heard in song (KAM) and again on May 23rd (PGB): May 21st, Broadmoor Common, noted in song (per FRF); June 3rd, Hereford shire/Gloucestershire border, 2 singing in Queens Wood, Dymock/ Kempley area (PB).

REDSTART Phoenicurus pheonicurus. The first reported were three in Olchon Valley on April 9th (lBE's) and widely reported from mid-April and throughout the breeding season. Late summer passage birds noted at Holme Marsh on Aug. 19th (AJS) and the last reported was a single at St. Margaret's on Sept. 19th (RGD).

WHINCHAT Saxicola ruhetra. No spring records received and autumn passage birds noted as follows: Aug 26th/ 27th, Castleton, 3 (AM); Sept. 1st, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF); a single at Castleton on Sept. 10th and 2 there on Sept. 17th (AM); Sept. 26th, Burghill, 5 (GRG's); Oct. 18th, Hole-in-the-Wall, one (lBE's).

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe. The first reported were six in Olchon Valley on March 31st (IBE's). April 2nd, Castleton, one (AM) and several near Cusop Hill on the same date (GCC); April 23rd, Michaelchurch, a male (WOO). Although no breeding records were received undoubtedly bred in favoured habitat on Welsh border, e.g. Olchon Valley, and in other suitable habitat within the County. Autumn passage noted at Castleton with two there on Aug. 26th (AM).

RING OUZEL Tun/us {orqu(J(us.

All reports were from the Olchon Valley with 3 - 4 birds noted March 30th - April 19th and a min. 13 passage birds on April 29th with at least one pair on territory (KAM et al). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 441

BLACKBIRD Turdus merula.

A common breeding resident and winter visitor from the continent. Noted in song at Ross-on-Wye on Jan. 31st and Common Hill on Feb. 1st (KAM). Autumn passage noted Holme Marsh on Nov. 4th (AJS).

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris.

Present throughout the first winter period to April 21 st. The largest flock noted was 3000+ at Holme Marsh on Feb. 17th (AJS). Other large counts during the period were: Jan. - mid-March, Newton/St. Margaret's c240 (RGD); Jan. 6th, Linton, clOO (PGG); Jan. 11th, Huntington Lane, Hereford, clOO (GRG's); Jan. 26th, Bridstow, c250 - 300 (WOD); Feb. 13th, Grendon Green, c350 and c300 at Combe Moor on the same date; Feb. 14th, Foy, c140, Carey, clOO and Kings Caple, clOO (PGG); Feb. 25th, Moreton on Lugg, c250 and c!50 at Burghill on the same date (GRG's); March 4th, Mathon GP, clOO (PGG); March 27th, Castleton, c200 moving north-east (AM). The last noted in spring were eleven at Mathon GP on April 21st (PGG). The first reported in autumn were seven near Holme Lacy on Oct. 5th (JLF) and small numbers noted thereafter until the main arrival during the second week of November. The larger counts during the second winter period were: Nov. 19th, Mathon GP, c100; Dec. 10th, Dorrnington, c200 (PGG); Dec. 15th, Holme Marsh, cl50 (AJS); Dec. 21st, Dinedor, cl60 (PGG).

SONG THRUSH Turdus philomelos.

Resident and breeding and winter visitor. Passage birds noted at Common Hill on Oct. 4th (KAM) and Holme Marsh on Oct. 17th (AJS). The largest count was eight at Belmont tip on Oct. 29th (DJS'sjRHS).

REDWING Turdus iliacus.

Present throughout first winter period to April 1st. The larger counts were: Jan. - mid-March, Newton/St. Margaret's, c90 (RGD); Feb. 5th, Mathon GP, c200; Feb. 13th, Combe Moor, c50 (PGG). The last noted were at Wilton on April 1st (CO). First birds of the autumn were 2 - 3 flying over Common Hill, Fownhope on Oct. 5th (KAM). Overnight passage noted at Holme Marsh on Oct. IOthlllth with 30 on 1I th and passage regular thereafter with 230 on Oct. 28th and max. 80 on Nov. 12th (AJS). Otherlarge counts during the second winter period were: Oct. 15th, Much Marcle, c50; Nov. 12th, Perryfield, Sollers Hope, c60 (FRF); Nov. 5th, Eastnor, c 100 and c40 at Mathon GP on the same date; Dec. 10th, Priors Frome, c150 and cl00 at Dormington on the same date (PGG); Dec. 26th, Holme Marsh, c500 (AJS).

MISTLE THRUSH Tunlus \'isei\'Orus.

Resident and brecding and regularly notcd throughout thc year.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Loeusrella naeria.

June 3rd - 11th. Wychc Cutting - British Camp (west). 2 'rceling' (PGG). 442 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenohaenus.

May 2nd, Wilton, 2 singing (WOO); May 6th, Weston Fann pool, Bredwardine, noted in song (PGB); May 19th, Hartleton Pools, singing (KAM); June 12th, Stapleton, noted (JMB).

REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus.

June 2nd, Shobdon, 2 in song (JMB).

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca.

The first reported were singles at Hampton Bishop on April 28th (JLF). April 29th, singles in song at Common Hill (KAM) and Upper Maund Common (PGB); April 30th, Mathon GP, one (PGG); May 23rd, Broadmoor Common, one on territory (FRF/RJ) and a single in song at Brampton Abbots (KAM) on the same date; May 26th, Combe Moor, one (PGG); June 23rd, Cusop, noted (GCC); July 3rd, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF); Aug. 14th, Common Hill, one (KAM).

WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis.

The first reported was a single at Bridstow on April 27th (WOO). Noted thereafter at Brampton Abbots, Brilley Green Dingle, Broadmoor Common, Grey Valley, Holme Marsh, Kings Caple Wye, Much Marcle, Pennoxstone Wye, Ragged Stone (west) (4 in song on May 24th), Ruckhall, Wall Hills Ledbury and Wyche Cutting - British Camp (west) (9 in song on June 4th). Last noted Holme Marsh on July 29th (AJS).

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia horin.

An early bird noted at Lions Den, near Bredwardine on March 29th (SC) with main arrival during third week of April. Noted during the late spring/summer period at Breinton, Brilley Green Dingle, Broadmoor Common, Combe Moor (4 in song on May 26th), Dinmore (Queen's Wood), Great Hayclose Coppice (near Clencher's Mill) Eastnor (3 in song on June 6th), Kings Caple Wye, Newton, Pennoxstone Wye, Ragged Stone (west) (3 in song on May 24th), Wall Hills Ledbury and Wyche Cutting - British Camp (west) (7 in song on June IIth). The last reported were two at Newton on Sept. 21st (RGD).

BLACKCAP Syll'ia arricapilla.

Jan. - early March, over-wintering birds noted at Burghill (a male), Common Hill (a male and a female), Ewyas Harold (a male) and Tupsley (a female). The first spring migrants reported were two in song at Ragged Stone Hill (west) on April 4th. Main arrival mid-April and widely reported during the breeding season. The last noted in autumn were two males at Westhope Hill on Sept. 27th (GNS's/ KAM's). During the second winter period two males were noted at Tupsley and single birds at eusor (a male) and Ledhury. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB 443

WOOD WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix.

First heard in song at Dinmore Wood on April 13th (per rangers). April 26th, Mansel Lacy, 2 (JVF); May 9th, Penyard Park Wood, in song (KAM); May 26th, Barnet Wood, near Wigmore, one in song; May 31st, Brookhill (below west side ofWorcestershire Beacon), one in song (PGG); June 11th, Brilley Green Dingle, 6 in song (CO); Aug. 10th, Upper Lye, one noted (JVF). PGG reported a general decline in Malvern Hills area.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita.

The first reported was a single at Fownhope on March IIth (FB) and widespread thereafter throughout the breeding season in suitable habitat. The last reported was a single in song at Holme Marsh on Sept. 30th (AJS).

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus.

The first reported was heard in song at Lions Den, near Bredwardine on March 14th (SC) and widely distributed throughout the County in suitable habitat thereafter. The last reported was at Covenhope on Sept. 14th (AJS).

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus.

Resident and breeding and widely distributed throughout the County during the year. The larger counts were: Jan. 15th, Eastnor Castle grounds, c20; Oct. 30th, Humber Brook between Bodenham and Risbury, 40 - 50 in wet woodland beside brook (PGG).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata.

The first reported was a single at Bridstow on May 22nd (WaD) and widely reported throughout the County thereafter with records from Acton Beauchamp, Bodenham, Brilley, Castleton, Criftin Ford Bridge, Croft Castle, Ewyas Harold, Hereford, Hergest, Holme Lacy, Holmer, Much Marcle, Putley, Sollers Hope, Titley, Upper Colwall and Woolhope. The last reported was a single at Castleton on Sept. 10th (AM).

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca.

The first reported was a single at Titley on April 14th (AJS) (ef. 1988) and subsequently reported from Aymestrey, Bridstow, Brilley Green Dingle, Goodrieh, Mathon. Moccas, Mordiford and Olchon Valley. AJS reported birds to be numerous in north-west of the County in areas visited.

See also Nest-box Scheme and Ringing Reports. 444 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalos caudatus.

A common breeding resident widely reported throughout the year. The larger counts were: Jan. 15th, Eastnor Castle grounds, c40 (PGG); March 7th, Tupsley, 12 (lBE's); Sept. 4th, Holme Marsh, 18 (AJS); Sept. 24th, Westhope Hill, flocks of c20 and clO (GNS's); Oct. 1st, Goodrich, 16; Oct. 10th, Bridstow, 18 (WaD); Oct. 30th, Humber Brook between Bodenham and Risbury, c20 (pGG).

MARSH TIT Parus palustris.

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat.

WILLOW TIT Parus montanus.

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat.

COAL TIT Parus ateI'.

Resident and breeding and recorded throughout the year. A frequent visitor to feeding stations during winter months.

BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus.

A very common breeding resident.