The West Midland Bird Report

Home , Bartley Reservoir, Brookvale Park, Frankley, Frankley Reservoir, River Penk, Sutton Coldfield

THE WEST MIDLAND BIRD REPORT

No. 24

1957

Price Six Shillings Published August, 1958 A Hawfinch at a nest in an apple tree photographed by S. C. Porter. A shy bird, not easily observed, whose distribution in the West Midlands has not been fully worked out.

We are also indebted to S. C. Porter for this study of a Nightjar with young. An article on the distribution of this bird in the Club's area appears on another page.

THE WEST MIDLAND BIRD REPORT

No. 24

1957

BEING THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIRMINGHAM AND WEST MIDLAND BIRD CLUB FOR 1957 ON THE BIRDS OF WARWICKSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE AND STAFFORDSHIRE. CONTENTS

Page

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 5

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 5

FIELD MEETINGS REPORT 6

TREASURER'S REPORT 6

EDITOR'S REPORT 7

SECRETARY'S REPORT 7

THE WINTER DISTRIBUTION OF COOT, 1956/7 . 9

THE STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE NIGHTJAR IN THE WEST MIDLANDS 12

SURVEY OF BIRDS IN THE BROOKVALE DISTRICT

OF ERDINGTON, BIRMINGHAM . . . . 19

CLASSIFIED NOTES 23

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE OF MIGRANTS . . 53

KEY TO CONTRIBUTORS 57

BIRD-RINGING RECOVERIES 58

FINANCIAL STATEMENT 60

4 OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE, 1958 President : H. G. ALEXANDER, 144 Oak Tree Lane, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Vice-President : (vacant). Chairman : C. A. NORRIS, Clent House, Clent. Secretary : A. R. M. BLAKE, 102 Russell Bank Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield. Editor : J. LORD, "Orduna," 369 Chester Road, Sutton Coldfield. Treasurer : N. SWINDELLS, Rowan Lodge, 14 New Road, Shenstone, Lichfield. Field Meetings Secretary : A. T. CLAY, 93 Hamstead Hill, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham. Assistant Secretary : J. SEARS, 468 Shirley Road, Hall Green, Birmingham. Branch Representatives : KIDDERMINSTER : Mrs. M. THURSFIELD, Burnt Wood, Long Bank, Bewdley. STUDLEY : G. C. LAMBOURNE, Cottage Farm, Ipsley, near Redditch. SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE : Mrs. M. NELDER, Philomel, Kineton Road, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire. Committee : S. C. Brown, G. C. Lambourne, Miss R. C. Lee, G. M. Lewis, Miss G. M. Lewis, D. J. Munns, L. Smith.

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT Each year the Club goes from strength to strength and it is good to report that we have had another very successful year of activity and progress ; membership is higher than ever before and we have a small surplus in the bank. The lectures during the year proved as popular as in the past and attendances, in spite of the rival claims of television, were as well attended as usual. On the scientific side our Hon. Secretary, Mr. Blake, is to be congratulated on the wide range of work done. He has continued to organise the wildfowl counts for the three counties and has managed the Nightjar and Coot surveys as well. How he copes with so much remains a mystery. The work he puts into the Bulletin, which is almost entirely his doing, is beyond praise, indeed it would be fair to say that it would be impossible to get this job better done. Once more we must express our thanks to Mr. Lord who has edited the Report. This is always a most formidable task which

5 he carries out with commendable speed and accuracy. It is my personal regret that this year I have been responsible for delaying its production for which I tender my apologies. One of the most important events of the year was undoubtedly the formation of a new branch of the Club at Stafford. This is almost entirely due to the enterprise of Mr. N. R. West who is to be congratulated not only on the formation but on the speedy growth of this new venture. During the year the Club suffered the loss of its founder member and Vice-President Mr. W. E. Groves. Nobody has done more for the Club and we mourn his passing. An obituary appears on page 9. No Chairman's Report would be complete without an expression of thanks to all the officers and committees of the Club who make the organisation function with such devotion. We really are extremely fortunate and well served in every direction, indeed the whole strength of the Club is based on the energy and drive of these people who give their time so generously. Finally, it is a pleasure once again to express our thanks to the Director of the City of Birmingham Art Gallery for the excellent facilities placed at our disposal for our meetings. To Dr. Mary Woodall and her staff we are most grateful for what is undoubtedly a very real privilege. C. A. NORRIS.

FIELD MEETINGS REPORT

The field meetings held monthly continued to be well supported and form a very useful means of introduction to bird-watching for beginners. More meetings specifically for beginners have been held and have been successful. A. T. CLAY.

TREASURER'S REPORT

The accounts for 1957 are printed inside the back cover. It will be seen that the increased subscription has been effective and that the receipts exceeded the expenditure by £25 compared with a deficit of £15 the previous year. Membership at the end of 1957 was 528, to which the new Stafford Branch made a significant contribution. During the year 60 members left the Club. N. SWINDELLS. 6 EDITOR'S REPORT

The earlier summer migrants arrived well before the average date, the Chiffchaff being a fortnight earlier whereas in 1956 it was a week behind. Similarly the Sand-Martin, Wheatear, Swallow and Blackcap were all at least a week ahead of their usual dates. Perhaps the feature of the autumn wader passage was the spate of records from Cannock Reservoir where, for obscure reasons and to the joy of bird-watchers but to the chagrin of fishermen and sailing enthusiasts, the water-level remained unusually low. The large areas of mud and weed proved irresistible to waders. It is these variables, and others, such as a reservoir becoming watched less regularly owing to the migration of a bird watcher, that makes it so difficult to draw firm conclusions from past records when the transient factors are forgotten. The entries under Blue Tit, Coal-Tit, Greater Spotted Wood- pecker and Jay show that the area was concerned in the interesting invasion of tits and other species which was so marked in the east and south-east of the country. Amongst the rarities reported during the year were Spoonbills at Brandon and Hams Hall, White-eyed Pochard at Rotton Park, Birmingham, Dotterell at Bittell, Pectoral Sandpiper and Arctic Skua at Alvecote, Purple Sandpiper at Bartley and Great Skua and Iceland Gull at Belvide. Several observers sent in detailed notes on areas where few species beyond the ordinary ones occurred. That little reference can be made to such records in a Report of this kind should afford no discouragement ; the value of these records is ultimately in the personal satisfaction to the observer of building up an intimate picture of the bird life in a familiar haunt. As on previous occasions, the editor has had the assistance of members of the committee in assessing doubtful records. J. LORD.

SECRETARY'S REPORT Indoor Meetings No statistics were kept of the attendance at these meetings. Perhaps this is no serious omission as in some quarters the opinion is held that there is a plethora of figures in the bird world to-day. Be that as it may, the attendances were as good as ever and I think members will agree that the standard of our speakers was as high as ever. Those who spoke to us were the Rev. P. H. T. Hartley, Dr. J. F. Monk and Messrs. Clifford Holt, D. J. Munns, S. C. Porter, Donald Risden and G. K. Yeats. 7 At the February Meeting—our Annual General Meeting—films produced by the National Film Board of Canada were shown. We are very grateful to these speakers, who often travelled considerable distances to talk to us.

A New Branch of the Club A very successful venture during the year was the inauguration of a new Branch at Stafford. The idea was formulated by the present Branch Chairman, Mr. N. R. Went, who put in much hard work to make the inaugural meeting held on April 25th a success. The Club's Chairman explained the purpose of the proposed new Branch to the meeting, and the R.S.P.B. kindly lent some films. As a result of these efforts, the membership of this Branch is now over 35, most of whom are new members. A far better coverage of Central and North Staffordshire for future Club Reports is assured.

Bird Study The Nightjar Survey of 1957 was the one new investigation of the year. Despite a rather disappointing response, a fair coverage of the three counties was achieved. We may repeat the exercise in 1958, drawing particular attention to the gaps in our present knowledge. A Report on the present known status and distribution of the species in the West Midlands appears on page 12. The Coot Survey continued over 1956-7 and is being repeated again over the 1957-8 winter. An account of the results achieved over the former period appears on page 9. Once again thanks are due to the wildfowl counters in con- tinuing their good work, in some instances for the tenth consecutive season. At the end of 1957 a further report, this time concerning the Tufted Duck, was published by the Wildfowl Trust and dis- tributed to the counters. The Research Committee set out to determine more exactly the status of the Cirl Bunting in South-West Worcestershire. A combined effort on May 12th and a careful combing of the area south of a line from Worcester to West Malvern and west of the River Severn resulted in one bird of the species being discovered. This only emphasised the scarcity of the species in the West Mid- lands. It is hoped that in 1958 the same area will be covered to determine the numbers of Red-backed Shrike which breed there. If this is possible, an investigation into the status of the species in the West Midlands will be launched, and a request for co-operation from members living in areas favoured by this local species will be made in an issue of the Club's Bulletin. A. R. M. BLAKE.

8 #bituarp W. E. GROVES With the passing of W. E. Groves in January, 1958, at the age of 89, the Club lost one of its oldest and dearest members. Although in recent years Mr. Groves had, through failing health, been unable to attend many meetings, he was well known by repute to most members. It would be true to say that the Club owes its very existence to the initiative he showed in the early years and to the devoted service he gave later, especially during the War, when so many of the active people were called to other duties. The very first meeting of the Club was held at Mr. Groves' invita- tion in his own house on November 1st, 1929, and he was certainly our founder member. Originally the meetings were small, for membership was restricted to twelve so that an informal discussion could take place with each member speaking of recent experiences. At these meetings Mr. Groves took the Chair, and over the years he has in fact occupied all the offices of the Club except that of Editor. Immediately after the War the immense growth of interest in natural history in general, and bird watching in particular, was fore- seen and Mr. Groves piloted a revised constitution and rules through what had then become the Committee, and the Club as it now is was placed on a firm foundation. Mr. Groves was one of the pioneers of electricity in Birmingham and was one of the first half-dozen men to introduce electricity to the City before the turn of the century. He continued as Mains Engineer when the Corporation took over Electricity Supply and remained with them until his retirement just before the last war. Although few of the younger members of the Club will have known Mr. Groves personally those of us who did will always remember him as being a singularly courtly gentleman, possessing the manners and mannerisms of an age now almost, alas, forgotten. To the younger members of his day he was most kind and the writer of this note will remember particularly the regularity of his letters packed with news of the Midlands' birds and bird watchers, letters which were hungrily devoured during the war years spent in foreign fields. C. A. N.

THE WINTER DISTRIBUTION OF COOT 1956-7 The investigation into the numbers of Coot in the West Mid- lands during the autumn, winter and spring was continued over the period August, 1956, to March, 1957. In the West Midland Bird Report No. 23 it was mentioned that our work in the West Midlands was in support of a National Investigation sponsored by the British Trust for Ornithology. The necessity for restricting counts to a manageable sample number of waters was discussed at length and this same sample has been used during the 1956-1957 period. The 1956-7 winter had very different weather from the previous one. The first three months of 1957 were astonishingly mild, whereas late January and early February, 1956, were exceptionally

9 cold. This disparity in weather conditions had an interesting effect on numbers, notably on Alvecote Pools, and this will be discussed below. The figures in the Table give the total numbers of Coot counted on the waters covered. Some elaboration of them follows, along with a comparison with the 1955-6 figures. (a) The peak numbers in 1956 were most probably in mid- November, as in 1955. Unfortunately, the counts were made on November 4th and December 2nd. On both of these days the total numbers were virtually the same and thus the mid-November, 1956, total may well have exceeded these two counts. (b) The increase at Cannock Chase Reservoir was much smaller (nil on August 5th to 210 on November 4th). There seems to be no one satisfactory explanation for this small peak remembering that in December, 1955, 900 birds were present. However, it is possible that fluctua- tions in the water-level affect the birds' food supply. Indiscriminate shooting is certainly on the increase and this, coupled with sailing, has greatly increased the amount of disturbance. (c) At Blithfield Reservoir the numbers on August 5th were recorded as 600, not more than 100 of which could have been breeding adults and their young. As the counts in 1956 were on different dates from 1955 a direct comparison is not possible, but by interpolation the count for August 5th, 1955, would have been around the 250 mark. The August, 1956, numbers were never substantially exceeded, the maximum being 638 on October 7th, while on November 4th 510 were present. (d) Of the two waters with the highest breeding populations, Gailey showed no real increase on the 190 counted on August 5th. Numbers remained at the 200 mark until the end of January, 1957, whereas in 1955 a marked decrease took place as early as mid-November. At Belvide Reservoir, however, the pattern was quite different. The August, 1956, count was within 10 per cent, of the August, 1955, figure, yet while by November, 1955, numbers had fallen to 30, in November, 1956, the count had risen to 600. At the end of December, 500 were present, falling to 300 in January and February and only 60 at the end of March. (e) At Alvecote there was a clear peak of 485 on December 2nd, falling to 375-400 at the end of December and January, 1957. Clearly, the lack of severe frost in January and February, 1957, resulted in there being no movement into this area, in contrast with 1956.

10 (/) The overall increase in numbers from August 5th, 1956, to the peak on November 4th, was 971. Allowing for the different count dates in 1955 the increase over the equiva- lent period of 1955 was about 1,400. It is interesting to note that while the increase at Blithfield and Cannock Chase Reservoirs from August to November, 1956, was only 120 compared with about 1,700 over roughly the same period of 1955, the overall total for the three counties in November, 1956, was only 367 lower than in 1955. As pointed out in {a) above, this discrepancy may well be even smaller. Once again thanks are due to the wildfowl counters who carried out the counts of this species in addition to swans, geese and ducks.

1956 County No. of Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Dec. Waters 5 2 7 4 2 30

Warwicks. 14 246 452 624 731 854 705 Worcs. 4 49 50 105 125 138 143 Staffs. 8 1,176 1,244 1,555 1,586 1,400 1,289

Total 26 1,471 1,746 2,284 2,442 2,392 2,137

1957 County No. of Jan. Feb. Mar. Waters 27 24 24

Warwicks. 14 599 444 230 Worcs. 4 130 127 78 Staffs. 8 1,260 930 311

Total 26 1,989 1,501 619 A. R. M. BLAKE.

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11 THE STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE NIGHTJAR IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

During 1957 an enquiry into the present distribution of the Nightjar was organised by Dr. J. Stafford through the British Trust for Ornithology. The survey was prompted by the belief that the present numbers were declining throughout the British Isles. It was hoped that the enquiry would establish the present status and also establish whether there was any reason for the decrease. The honorary secretary acted as the local organiser. Altogether, 26 members of the Club supplied information, some of it historical, going back 50 years or more. The enquiry itself asked for decreases in relation to the last ten years but some of the early records were of considerable value. The historical information has prompted the extension of this account to cover records of the Nightjar in the West Midlands published over the last 30 years.

The authorities quoted are as follows :— Notes on the Birds of Warwickshire (C. A. Norris), 1947 ; The Birds of Worcestershire (A. J. Harthan), ca. 1947 ; The Birds of the Lickey Hills and Bittell (H. G. Alexander), 1929—Proc. Bir- mingham Nat. Hist, and Phil. Soc. ; The Birds of Staffordshire (T. Smith), 1930-38—Trans, and Ann. Reports of N. Staffs. Field Club, Vol. LXIV to LXXII ; The Reports of the Birmingham and West Midland Bird Club, 1934-56 (B.C.R.) ; Enquiry—information received as a result of the 1957 enquiry from Mrs. M. Palmer- Smith, Mrs. M. Thursfield, Miss W. M. Baines, Miss M. Gibbins, Miss M. E. Pumphrey, Messrs. G. A. Arnold, M. A. Arnold, L. R. Bayes, R. J. Bradney, G. Capper, R. Chidwick, F. Colley, A. W. Cundall, A. J. Edwards, T. W. Ford, H. S. Hemsley-Hall, A. Hewitt, M. D. Higgins, G. M. Ireson, J. Lord, D. H. Naylor, P. R. Powell, C. R. L. Reece, T. M. Thursfield, P. Till and N. R. West.

I. WARWICKSHIRE 1. Historical "Information scanty but apparently more numerous 40 years ago than it is to-day. Only one bird heard in the last ten years in South Warwickshire. Reported as occurring near Rugby in 1934." (Norris.)

2. Isolated Records 1937 Bird heard in Edgbaston Park and area, 1894. (B.C.R.) 1947 Probably breeding Ragley and Oakley Woods. (B.C.R.) 1951 A pair Oversley Wood. (B.C.R.)

12 1952 A pair throughout summer at Exhall, near Coventry. Heard, 20th April, at Burton Hastings. (B.C.R.) 1956 Heard at Moreton Morrell and at Wellesbourne Wood. (B.C.R.) 1957 Seen at Whitnash in August. (Enquiry) Heard at Waverley Wood in May.

3. Regular Haunts Sutton Park "Isolated birds have also been heard near Sutton Park." (Norris.) 1937 Not mentioned in article "Birds of Sutton Park." (B.C.R.) 1951-6 Reported throughout each breeding season, four birds being heard on 23rd June, 1952, and up to three during 1955. (B.C.R.) 1957 One bird churring 15th-18th June, but not (Enquiry) subsequently, about one mile from usual area. Habitat, tree/heath—birch, bracken, heather, gorse. Intensive spraying with insecticide prior to Scout Jamboree may have reduced bird's food supply but increased human interference most probably contributed as well. 4. Number of churring birds in county in 1957 : 2.

5. Summary Knowledge of the Nightjar's distribution remains fragmentary. Sutton Park appears to be the only regular breeding area but such areas as Oversley, Waverley, Oakley and Ragley Woods need investigation. The species would not appear to have decreased over the last ten years.

II. WORCESTERSHIRE

1. Historical "An erratic summer resident. Until 1900 it was very common in the Lickey Woods and most abundant in the Monk Trench and Shrawley Woods but was unknown in the southern parts of the county, where few woods exist. The Nightjar is now a scarce bird." (Harthan.)

13 2. Regular Haunts Now Absent A. Lickey Woods and Barnt Green Area 1929 A pair or two probably breed in some years. (Alexander.) 1935 Common, 1860-1910. (B.C.R.) 1950 One seen on 25th May, the first since 1936. (B.C.R.) 1957 Heard regularly every year from a garden in (Enquiry) Barnt Green, 1895-ca. 1900.

B. Sheriffs Lench 1935 Recorded 9th June. (B.C.R.) 1937 First date, 25th April (B.C.R.) 1951 In an article by A. J. Harthan it was reported that the species disappeared around 1940. The ploughing up of the old breeding areas plus an increase of the Grey Squirrel were held responsible. (B.C.R.) 1947 Recorded between 25th May and 5th July— the first since 1937. (B.C.R.) 1955 One on passage, 19th September. (B.C.R.)

C. Witley Court Estate 1957 Up to about 1950, eggs of one pair found (Enquiry) regularly in small clearings or on felled tree stumps in scrub woodland. Possibly two pairs nested in area. Has been absent since. The bracken has been cleared, the parkland cultivated and a house built on the former woodland.

D. Wyre Forest 1930 One pair per 100 acres. (Harthan.) 1935 Reported from Dowles area. (B.C.R.) 1939 Do. 1949 Heard 6th June. (B.C.R.) 1955 Reported on 30th May. (B.C.R.) 1957 Now appears to be absent. Area of Wyre (Enquiry) Forest in Worcestershire not searched thoroughly so may still breed in limited numbers.

14 Reduced Numbers—•Now Occasional (not 1957) A. Worcester—Knightwick Area 1957 One or two present most years, 1947-56. (Enquiry) None seen or heard in 1957. B. Randan Woods near Bromsgrove 1935-55 Heard 1935-38, 1941-48, 1950-51 and in 1955. Eggs found, 1937. Single birds churring except in 1948, when two were heard. (B.C.R.) Reason for decrease obscure.

Status Uncertain—Not Visited 1957 A. Abbot's Morton 1950-55 Reported in 1950, 1954 and 1955. (B.C.R.) B. Habberley Valley near Kidderminster 1949-51 A pair present in each year. (B.C.R.)

Present 1957 A. Malvern Area "Has appeared fairly regularly at the southern end of the Malvern Hills." (Harthan.) 1942 One heard 1942, Little Malvern. (B.C.R.) 1950 Reported from Welland. (B.C.R.) 1957 One bird churring late June and early July (Enquiry) near Foxhall on Malvern Hills—bracken- covered hillside with occasional birch and hawthorn. Local farmer reports hearing species each year since 1941. Bird churring in Storridge Woods, June-July. Has been noted over a number of years.

B. Kidderminster Area Not mentioned. (Harthan.) 1957 One or two churring during May-June in Rifle (Enquiry) Range—Devil's Spittleful area. Heathland with areas of birch scrub, etc. Present in 1943 and in most years since. At least two pairs usually and four or five in 1954. Eggs found twice. 3. Number of churring birds in county in 1957 : 4. 15 4. Summary The species has undoubtedly decreased in Worcestershire. It disappeared from the Lickeys probably in the 1930's and from Sheriffs Lench in the late 1930's. During the last ten years it has gone from Witley Court Estate and has decreased, if not disappeared, from the Wyre Forest, the Worcester-Knight- wick area and from Randan Woods. In the Malvern area there would appear to be little change, as may well be the case in the Kidderminster area in spite of the exceptional numbers in 1954.

III. STAFFORDSHIRE 1. Historical "The species appears almost universally in summer on elevated moors and in rough areas and in open parts of woodlands in low-lying parts of the county." (Smith.)

2. Isolated Records 1956 A churring bird, Baggeridge Wood. (B.C.R.)

3. Regular Haunts Now Absent A. Burton Area "Apparently not common, formerly visiting area regularly in small quantity." (Smith.)

B. Blacklake Plantation, Meir Heath 1957 Birch wood cut down about 1940. Species (Enquiry) present 1946-55, eggs found 1951 and 1952. Absent 1956-7. Undergrowth developed con- siderably and some building on fringe of area. C. Hopwas Wood 1957 Conifer plantation, mostly felled, 1950-1956. (Enquiry) No shrub layer and bracken increasing. Two or three pairs bred in 1935 and one or two regularly until 1945 at least. Probably bred 1950 and odd birds heard from 1953-55. None located in 1956 or 1957.

D. Trentham Park : Down's Banks (near Stone) "Reported as occurring in both these areas." (Smith.) 1957 Although not visited it is unlikely that these areas are now occupied by the species.

16 Status Uncertain—Not Visited 1957 A. Madeley, Willoughbridge and Maer "Nests sparingly at Madeley and fairly common at Willoughbridge and Maer." (Smith.)

B. Northern Moorlands "Many breed." (Smith.)

C. Aqualate and Gnosal] "Uncommon." (Smith.)

D. Kinver Edge 1935 Breeds in fair numbers. (B.C.R.) 1946 Reported 23rd April, 1946. (B.C.R.) 1953 Reported 17th May, 1953. (B.C.R)

Present 1957 A. Cannock Chase Area not mentioned specifically by Smith. 1952 Breeds over a wide area—six heard churring together on Brindley Heath area. (B.C.R.) 1957 Brindley Heath—not visited. Shoal Hill— (Enquiry) birch wood with shrub layer and bracken— bird churring during July. Seven Springs— bracken and heather moorland with scattered birches—up to three churring from 18th May to 8th August.

B. Bagot's Park Smith quotes Moseley (1863)—"plentiful in Needwood Forest." This may have embraced the area of Bagot's Park. 1957 Heathland with some bracken, coarse grass, (Enquiry) etc. Area newly planted with conifers. Six churring birds heard in mid-June. Two eggs found on 21st July. Foresters reported birds in 1956.

C. Woodland surrounding Blithfield Reservoir 1957 Bird flushed off ground, 13th June. (Enquiry) 17 D. Enville Heath (Kinver Forest) and Enville Common "Appears regularly in the Stour Valley." (Smith.) 1948-52 Up to five pairs recorded each year. (B.C.R.) 1957 Replanted with conifers, 1950-54, formerly (Enquiry) open birch woods with bracken and heather. Twelve birds churring in June. Numbers the same as four years ago. Has evidently increased since area cleared and replanted. E. Highgate Common 1957 Open woodland, mostly birch, with bracken (Enquiry) and open patches. Up to three birds churring during June. Has decreased over past ten years. The only obvious factor is increased use of area by public.

4. Number of churring birds in county in 1957 : 25

5. Summary The position in Staffordshire appears satisfactory at the moment. The species has deserted only two areas since 1947 and of the areas from which it was reported in 1957 only at Highgate Common was a decrease recorded. The history of the Nightjar in the Cannock Chase area is negligible but there is no reason to suspect a decrease over the past ten years. At Bagot's Park it is likely that the clearing of the oak wood has resulted in an increase, if not the establishment of, a new colony. In the Enville area there has undoubtedly been an increase but as at Bagot's Park this may be relatively short- lived as the histories of Blacklake Plantation and Hopwas Wood show only too clearly. A yearly check might well be made at both Enville and Bagot's Park for at least the next ten years to relate the increasing height and density of the trees with the likely reduction in the numbers of Nightjars.

V. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thanks are due to those members who responded to the appeal made in the Club's Bulletins and in particular to Mr. J. Sears for his industry in searching through the Proceedings of the Birmingham Natural History and Philosophical Society for references to the Nightjar. A. R. M. BLAKE.

18 SURVEY OF BIRDS IN THE BROOKVALE DISTRICT OF ERDINGTON, BIRMINGHAM

Area Under Survey The area is that within the following boundaries :— College Road (Crossways)—Salford Bridge to Walsall Canal— Slade Road—Streetly Road—Perry Common Road—College Road (Crossways). The area consists mainly of suburban houses and gardens. Two parks. 1. Witton Lakes. Was built as a reservoir and consists of a large sheet of water divided by a causeway and surrounded by a further area of ground that is used as football pitches. 2. Brookvale Park. Has a cultivated appearance with well-kept gardens, shrubbery and bowling and putting greens. The lake was formed by blocking a small stream and has an artificial island in the centre. The lake itself has a number of willow and silver birch trees along the shores. The remaining area is made up of Witton Cemetery, Witton and Wyrely Birch allotments, and a large sand pit which borders Witton Lakes. The cemetery resembles open park land with a great variety of vegetation. The allotments are, of course, areas of cultivated land. The area itself is not a very likely-looking place to see birds but over a number of years a surprising number of species have been seen. The park pools alone have had visits from 11 species of duck, one goose, and two grebes. Whilst during migration, waders, gulls, terns and small passerines can be seen and heard flying over the area. In a now abandoned sand pit a very small number of Sand-Martins still nest, in contrast to the numbers which nested there ten years ago when the face of the pit was riddled with holes.

CLASSIFIED LIST OF SPECIES SEEN IN THE AREA

GREAT CRESTED GREBE. Occasionally seen in small numbers during March—May and again in September and October. LITTLE GREBE. Seen during spring and autumn migration periods in small parties. CORMORANT. TWO flying over Witton Lakes, 10th April, 1949. HERON. Occasionally seen flying over the area. MALLARD. Resident. 11 or 12 pairs breed in the parks, allotments and the cemetery. 19 TEAL. One or two have been recorded, usually associating with the other waterfowl. GARGANEY. One in Brookvale Park, 28th July, 1953. WIGEON. One duck in Brookvale Park, 3rd April, 1949. SHOVELER. One drake in Brookvale Park, 25th March, 1950. SCAUP. One drake was present for a few days at both Brookvale Park and Witton Lakes, first seen on 14th March, 1956. TUFTED DUCK. Seen in varying numbers at both parks from July till May with a peak of about 50 birds during December and January so long as the pools are free from ice. POCHARD. Present in varying numbers from October to March, with a peak in December. The most recorded was 85 on 16th December, 1956. GOLDEN-EYE. One or two during winter months. First recorded 24th December, 1953. SMEW. One duck in Brookvale Park from 15th to 16th January, 1949. SHELD-DUCK. One at Witton Lakes, 2nd January, 1954. CANADA GOOSE. Recorded once in April, 1955, in Brookvale Park. MUTE SWAN. Resident with a peak in July with the appearance of non-breeding birds. Bred in 1955. SPARROW-HAWK. Only one record of this species. KESTREL. Seen over the area most days during the year and believed to nest in the cemetery but definite proof is lacking. PARTRIDGE. Breeds in small numbers in the allotments and the cemetery. MOORHEN. Resident in Brookvale Park. COOT. Occasionally seen, usually singly, throughout the year. LAPWING. Seen and heard on spring and autumn passage and during the winter months. SNIPE. Only one winter record from Witton Lakes. COMMON SANDPIPER. Most frequent wader to be seen or heard in the area. Usually seen in ones and twos but 16 on 9th July and 20 on 11th July, 1957. REDSHANK. Heard during the evening of 23rd April, 1957. LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL. Seen in small numbers during winter and migration months. HERRING-GULL. Occasionally seen during winter months. COMMON GULL. One or two seen during winter months, usually in hard weather. BLACK-HEADED GULL. Has been seen during most months of the year. Maximum seen, 120 on 22nd February, 1956. KITTIWAKE. One immature bird on 6th November, 1948, in Brook- vale Park. 20 "COMIC" TERN. Seen at Brookvale Park on 22nd August and 3rd September, 1956. At Witton Lakes on 7th September, 1956. WOOD-PIGEON. Resident, but no definite proof of breeding. CUCKOO. Seen during spring and early summer most years. TAWNY OWL. Resident in the area, breeding not proved. SWIFT. Resident during the breeding season. It breeds in about four scattered colonies. KINGFISHER. A few records, mostly during winter months. GREEN WOODPECKER. "1 _ . , , , r. >Only one record of each species. GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER./ J V SKYLARK. Resident—about ten pairs breed in the area.

SWALLOW. C , . . . , HOUSE-MARTIN./Seen dunnS Ration periods. SAND-MARTIN. Breeds in small numbers. Fewer now than in previous years ; one pair in 1957. CARRION-CROW Jackdaw J>Resident—all known to breed. MAGPIE J GREAT TIT. About four pairs breed each year. BLUE TIT. About six pairs breed each year. COAL-TIT. Seen occasionally during autumn and winter. WREN. Winter and autumn visitor. MISTLE-THRUSH. Seen most months of the year, one pair possibly breeding, but no definite proof. FIELDFARE" >Seen and heard during migration and winter months. REDWING. SONG-THRUSH. Resident—about 12 pairs nest. BLACKBIRD. Resident—25 to 30 pairs nest. REDSTART. One 22nd September, 1956. ROBIN. Resident. SEDGE-WARBLER. One, 8th May, 1956. GARDEN-WARBLER. Seen occasionally during spring and autumn. WHITETHROAT. A small number of pairs breed throughout the area. WILLOW-WARBLER. TWO singing males present during the last two breeding seasons. CHIFFCHAFF. Only one pair stays to breed each year although fairly numerous on passage. SPOTTED FLYCATCHER. Passage migrant. HEDGE-SPARROW. Resident. MEADOW-PIPIT. Passage migrant and winter visitor, sometimes in fairly large numbers. TREE-PIPIT. Has been seen in cemetery and Lucas sports field; no record of breeding.

21 PIED WAGTAIL. Resident from July to May. GREY WAGTAIL. Occasionally seen during winter months. YELLOW WAGTAIL. Passage migrant only. STARLING. Resident. GREENFINCH. Resident. Influx noted during migration and winter months. GOLDFINCH. Parties occasionally pass through the area during migration periods. LINNET. Passage migrant and winter visitor, sometimes in large numbers. CHAFFINCH. Has bred, but mostly seen on passage and during winter. YELLOW HAMMER. Has bred in the area, now only a passage migrant and winter visitor. REED-BUNTING. One, 4th February, 1956. HOUSE-SPARROW Resident. B. W. JONES.

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22 CLASSIFIED NOTES (The number preceding the name of each bird refers to the Check-List of the Birds of Great Britain and Ireland.) I. Warwickshire. II. Worcestershire. III. Staffordshire. (See page 57 for key to contributors.) 1. Black-Throated Diver. III. One was seen at Gailey from December 21st (A.F.J.) to 29th (several observers). 2. Great Northern Diver. I. A bird was reported at Bartley by many observers between November 6th (A.R.M.B.) and December 15th (A.F.J., W.E.O.). 3. Red-throated Diver. III. A bird at Blithfield on November 18th (J.L.) and 23rd (T.W.F., J.L.) was identified by slender, up-tilted bill and fine white spots on back. 5. Great Crested Grebe. A better breeding year than 1956. I. The most adult birds reported at Alvecote, where 12 pairs nested, was 37 on April 7th ; at Bodymoor Heath 15 on June 10th (G.A.A.) ; at Bartley seven on June 23rd (W.E.O.) ; and nine at Brandon on July 14th (A.J.R.). III. The most reported at Blithfield was 31 on February 24th (T.W.F., J.L.) ; at Aqualate, where seven pairs bred, 22 on July 28th (D.F.H.) ; at Belvide 29 on September 10th (K.I.D.) ; and at Gailey 25 on October 10th (J.L.). At least 12 pairs nested at Branston (C.C.). 7. Slavonian Grebe. III. Single birds were seen at Belvide between January 19th and 27th and December 8th and 15th (several observers) ; at Cannock Reservoir on December 1st, 8thand 15th (B.C., B.A.D., G.M.I., M.J.W.); and at Blithfield on December 22nd (T.W.F., J.L.). 8. Black-necked Grebe. I. A bird reported at Bartley on September 3rd (W.E.O.). III. One seen at Gailey feeding on water boatmen beetles on September 1st (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 9. Little Grebe. I. 65 were recorded at Alvecote on Decem- ber 1st (G.A.A.). III. A party of 30 was seen at Belvide on August 21st (R.J.B.). 12. Leach's Petrel. III. Bird seen at close range at Cannock Reservoir on September 15th and white rump and forked tail noted when it settled on shingle. Later seen flying across water with erratic buoyant flight (A.J.R.). 28. Cormorant. Recorded from usual waters. III. 15 seen at Patshull Park on November 24th (G.V.R.L.). Eight at Blithfield on December 28th was more than previously recorded (C.D.T.M.).

23 29. Shag. III. Bird seen at Blithfield on January 9th (C.D.T.M.). 30. Heron. I. A bird found dead at Bidford-on-Avon on February 2nd had been ringed in Lincolnshire on May 8th, 1955 (C.D.T.M.), and one found in Warwick Park on May 17th had been ringed at High Halstow in Kent on April 19th, 1953 (D.G.M.). III. Heronry at Enville had 10 nests on April 7th, nine in one ivy-covered oak (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 38. Bittern. I. A bird seen at Alvecote on July 10th flew off to the west (G.A.A.). 42. Spoonbill. I. At Brandon a bird, the first recorded for the county, was seen on June 16th and remained until the 20th. All-white plumage, crest, black spatulate bill, black legs and, in flight, black tips to primaries noted (A.J.R.). An immature bird occurred on October 20th near Hams Hall, in the company of a Heron, and flew off to the north. Flesh-coloured spatulate bill and white plumage with greyish-brown tinge on black-tipped wings observed (K.I.D., M.M.C.). A bird seen at Bodymoor Heath on October 22nd was probably the same (G.H.G.). 45. Mallard. I. The maximum recorded at Alvecote was about 200 on November 14th (G.A.A.). 500 were counted at Warwick Park on August 25th (S.G.). II. The maximum count at Bittell was 330 on October 20th (D.G.) and 400 were present at Westwood Park on Septem- ber 22nd and October 20th (F.C.). III. Maximum counts at various waters were 1,300 at Blithfield on January 6th (T.W.F., J.L.) and December 28th (C.D.T.M.) ; 330 at Patshull on December 28th (G.V.R.L.); 1,900 at Aqualate on October 20th (D.F.H.); and 300 at Bel vide on February 10th. About 200 were present at Chillington on September 22nd (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 46. Teal. I. Bred at Alvecote, where bird with three young seen on May 29th, and maximum noted was 165 on January 6th (G.A.A.). Buff-coloured bird again present. The most seen at Brandon was 200 on same date (A.J.R.). One shot at Walton Pool in January had been ringed at Abberton Reservoir on December 14th, 1955 (D.G.M.). III. The maximum seen at Belvide was about 200 (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and at Blithfield 750 on January 6th (T.W.F., J.L.). 47. Garganey. I. Bred at Alvecote, where brood of 12 seen on May 31st (J.L., L.S.). Pair seen at Arbury on March 23rd (J.L.B.) and two drakes at Brandon on April 15th (A.J.R.). 24 II. Two were reported at Bittell on April 14th (A.F.J.) and 15th (D.H., G.C.L., W.E.O., R.L.S.). III. A drake was noted at Belvide on April 14th (several observers) and up to six birds seen on dates between July 14th (J.L.) and September 8th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Two reported at Blithfield on September 11th (B.A.D.). 49. Gad wall. I. Two reported at Brandon on July 28th (A.J.R.) and a duck at Edgbaston Park on September 30th (M.C.W.E., W.E.O., R.L.S.). II. Two seen at Bittell on September 29th (G.H.E.) and one at Frankley Reservoir on December 20th (W.E.O.). III. One or two reported at Belvide between January 13th and 20th and on November 17th (several observers). A drake was seen at Chillington on November 17th, and one, which had been shot, at Cannock Reservoir on the 23rd (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 50. Wigeon. I. The most recorded at Alvecote was 200 on January 27th (G.A.A.). Single drakes were present at Brandon on May 26th and 27th and July 14th (A.J.R.). II. The maximum counted at Bittell was 230 on February 24th (D.G.). III. The most seen at Belvide was about 300 on January 13th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and at Blithfield, 1,600 on January 6th (T.W.F., J.L.). 52. Pintail. Small numbers, under 10, at several waters in autumn and winter months. III. Six at Belvide on March 3rd (several observers) was the only spring record reported in the area. Three were seen at Blithfield on the unusual date of July 7th (J.L.). 53. Shoveler. I. Marked absence reported for most of the year from Alvecote (G.A.A.). Bred at Brandon, where brood of five seen on May 11th (A.J.R.). II. Three seen on April 23rd at Wilden Pool, where unusual (M.D.H.). III. Nested at Belvide, where the most recorded was about 70 on November 10th (A.R.M.B.). The maximum seen at Aqualate was about 150 on October 20th (D.H.F.) and the same at Blithfield on December 22nd (T.W.F., J.L.). An unusual record was that of a bird seen on April 7th at Enville flying into a young fir plantation (M.M.C., G.H.E., K.I.D.). 55. Scaup. I. One or two reported at Earlswood on January 5th and 13th (A.W.C., J.N.S.) ; Minworth, December 8th and 15th (D.L., H.T.L.) ; Shustoke, December 22nd (G.H.E.) ; and five at Brandon on December 1st (A.J.R.). II. One seen at Bittell on November 24th (D.G.).

25 III. Single birds occurred at Cannock Reservoir between January 6th (A.F.J.) and February 16th (A.R.M.B., A.F.J.) and, in larger numbers, with 11 on December 8th (B.A.D., G.M.I., M.J.W.), from October 3rd (J.L.) to end of year. Single birds reported at Belvide on February 1st, 16th (J.L.) and August 25th (L.S.) and two on Decem- ber 29th (B.A.D.) ; at Blithfield on January 27th and from August 20th (T.W.F., J.L.) until December 14th (C.C.O.) ; and at Gailey on February 17th (J.A.S., T.M.T.) and between October 3rd—four birds—and December 29th (B.A.D., J.L.). 56. Tufted Duck. I. Bred at Alvecote and Brandon, where broods of six were seen on July 21st (G.A.A.) and 28th (A.J.R.) respectively, and also at Packington Gravel Pits (E.J.B.). 200 on November 24th was the maximum at Shustoke (K.I.D.). II. Three pairs attempted to breed at pools in the Lickeys (C.J.C.) and has bred annually at Spretchley since 1940 (A.J.H.). III. The maxima recorded at various waters were :—500 on November 23rd at Belvide, where five broods were seen on July 21st (A.R.M.B.) ; 370 at Gailey on October 20th (A.F.J.) ; about 150 at Cannock Reservoir on December 19th (R.S.B., W.E.O.) ; 200 at Chillington, where brood seen on August 25th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) ; and about 300 at Blithfield during winter months (T.W.F., J.L., C.D.T.M.). Several pairs bred at Branston (C.C.). 57. Pochard. I. Maximum noted at Alvecote, where two pairs bred, was about 200 on November 14th (G.A.A.). Nest with seven eggs seen on April 28th at Chesterton, where three broods totalling 21 ducklings were present on May 23rd (J.L.). III. Maxima noted at various waters were : 450 at Gailey on December 21st (A.F.J.) and 22nd (A.R.M.B.) ; about 400 at Belvide on November 23rd (A.R.M.B.) ; and about 350, an influx, at Cannock Reservoir on December 18th (J.L.) and 19th (R.S.B., W.E.O.). 58. White-eyed Pochard. I. A bird believed to be an immature male was seen at close range at Rotton Park Reservoir, Birmingham, on August 2nd (M.J.M.L.). Points noted were :—general colouring like very dark female Pochard, large white crescent-shaped wing bars in flight and striking white eye. 60. Golden-eye. Small numbers at several waters. I. Single birds at Brandon on November 17th and December 22nd were the first noted there by observer (A.J.R.). 26 III. The most seen at Blithfield was about 50 on February 24th and November 23rd (T.W.F., J.L.) and about 60 were recorded at Belvide on April 14th and again towards the end of November (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 61. Long-tailed Duck. II. One seen at Bittell on January 20th and 26th (D.G., A.F.J.). III. One, sometimes two, immatures noted at Belvide from November 17th to 30th (several observers) and again on December 29th (B.A.D.). Single birds, not the same throughout, seen at Cannock Reservoir between November 3rd (J.L.) and 23rd (several observers). One present at Gailey on January 10th (J.L.). 62. Velvet Scoter. I. A duck was seen at Bartley from October 5th (G.H.E.) until the 15th (A.R.M.B.). III. An immature bird was reported at Cannock Reservoir from November 30th (several observers) until December 22nd when it was last seen flying east (B.A.D., D.J.M.). 64. Common Scoter. I. One seen at Brandon on April 21st (A.J.R.). A duck at Alvecote on November 14th was the first record for the water (D.E.J.). II. A duck was present at Bittell on February 1st (H.K.S.) and September 21st (G.H.E.). III. Two drakes seen at Blithfield on July 22nd (K.H.T.). At Cannock Reservoir a duck occurred on July 24th (A.F.J.) and two from November 16th (A.R.M.B., A.F.J.) until the 26th (J.L.). 69. Red-breasted Merganser. I. A drake seen at Alvecote from January 6th to 13th (G.A.A., N.B.W.C.) was the only record for the area. 70. Goosander. Small numbers, not more than three, reported on a few occasions during winter months at: I. Alvecote, Brandon, Shustoke ; II. Bittell; III. Aqualate, Cannock Reservoir. III. The most recorded at Blithfield, where birds again stayed until May, was 50 on January 27th (T.W.F., J.L.) and, at Belvide, about 12 in early January and December (B.C., B.A.D., G.M.I., M.J.W.), a much smaller total than usual; at Aqualate 14 on December 22nd (D.F.H.) ; and up to nine at Branston throughout January (C.C.). 38 were at Copmere on December 22nd (A.H.). 71. Smew. III. Single birds seen at Blithfield on January 6th and December 22nd (T.W.F., J.L.) and at Belvide on January 27th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and February 17th (R.J.B.). No adult drakes seen in the area.

27 73. Sheld-Duck. I. One at Middleton Hall on January 13th ; one or two at Alvecote in February and April, with four on February 10th ; three at Bodymoor Heath on Novem- ber 9th (G.A.A.); one at Shustoke on January 26th (E.M.B., K.I.D., G.H.E.) and four on February 10th (E.M.B.). II. One reported at Bittell on March 24th (D.G.), 26th (W.E.O.) and three on October 1st (J.H.H.). III. At Bel vide three occurred on February 9th and one on the 16th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.), August 22nd (T.W.H.), and from November 9th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) to 17th (B.W.J.). Seven present at Branston on January 1st and 2nd (C.C.), one at Gailey on February 16th (A.F.J.), five at Blithfield on April 21st (A.R.M.B.) and the same number at Cannock Reservoir on December 18th (J.L.). 75/8. Grey Geese. I. Several flew over Coventry on March 11th (A.J.R.). II. Three seen flying over Lenchwick in mid-November (per T.C.S.). 76. White-fronted Goose. III. One at Belvide on December 15th (B.C.) and about 12 at Blithfield on the 22nd (T.W.F., J.L.) and 30th (C.C.O.). 78. Pink-footed Goose. II. A single bird flew over Sheriffs Lench on October 10th calling loudly (T.C.S.). IIT. A small party, believed from calls to be of this species, flew south over Eccleshall on the evening of September 30th (N.R.W.). At least two identified feeding with White-fronted Geese on stubble near Blithfield on Decem- ber 30th (C.C.O.). 82. Canada Goose. Bred on usual waters. I. Nested at Shirley (R.A.C.). Two at Brandon on April 27th were the first seen there by the observer (A.J.R.). 50 was the most recorded at Edgbaston Park (M.C.W.E.) and, at Packington Gravel Pits, 70 on August 21st (J.L.). Ill The maxima reported from various waters were :—150 at Blithfield on September 1st (W.E.O.) ; 87 at Gailey on October 27th (L.S.) ; 84 at Belvide on December 29th (B.A.D.) ; 48 at Patshull on November 24th and December 28th (G.V.R.L.) ; 42 at Aqualate on September 22nd (D.F.H.) ; and up to 52 at Branston (C.C.). 85. Whooper-Swan. II. An immature bird was identified at Frankley Reservoir on November 3rd (W.E.O.). III. One, immature, made a brief stay at Cannock Reservoir on November 23rd (A.F.J., D.J.M.). Three adults seen at Belvide on December 20th (M.D.H.).

28 86. Bewick's Swan. I. Two seen at Alvecote from January 6th to 10th (G.A.A., N.B.W.C.) and 17 flew in from the north-west on November 30th (H.T.L.). II. Two at BitteU on February 9th (A.W.C., J.N.S.) had increased to five on the 10th (G.H.E.) and were last seen on March 1st (H.T.L.). III. Two were present at Cannock Reservoir from February 2nd (D.J.M.) to March 31st (A.R.M.B., A.F.J.). Six were reported on November 30th and five were on the water on December 15th (several observers) when 42 birds flew westerly in a long oblique line (J.L., L.S.). Five seen at Belvide on November 24th (L.S.) and one on the 30th (R.J.B., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Two noted at Blithfield on December 14th (C.C.O.) and several birds heard on the 26th (C.D.T.M.).

91. Buzzard. I. One reported at Earlswood on January 12th (A.W.C., J.N.S.), Coventry on March 18th (A.W.H.W.) and May 15th (A.R.), Nuneaton on May 4th (H.L.), Foleshill on the 5th (A.W.H.W.), Napton Reservoir on September 22nd (J.H.L.) and Warwick on December 16th (D.G.M.). II. Records from usual areas but seen at Sheriffs Lench on fewer occasions than in former years (A.J.H.). III. Several records of one or two birds from the south-west of the county. One seen near Little Aston on October 3rd (D.J.M.) and four seen at Aqualate on December 7th (T.W.F., J.L.).

100. Hen-Harrier. I. Bird flushed from rushes at Alvecote on March 16th showing brown-streaked tail and bright white patch on rump (G.M.L.).

102. Montagu's Harrier. III. A 1955 record just received was of one seen in Dovedale on August 22nd (D.H.T.).

104. Hobby. III. One seen at Blithfield on August 11th (A.F.J.).

105. Peregrine Falcon. III. One at Blithfield on January 14th made two unsuccessful stoops at a Tufted Duck (M.C.W.E., R.L.S.). Single birds seen at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on September 20th (A.R.M.B.) and at Belvide on November 17th (S.C.B., K.I.D.). 107. Merlin. I. One seen near Nuneaton on November 28th (J.L.B.) and in Sutton Park on December 22nd (T.M.T.). III. Single birds noted at Cannock Reservoir on January 6th (A.F.J.), September 7th (A.R.M.B.), 24th (J.L.), Novem-

29 ber 30th (G.M.I., M.J.W.) and December 18th (J.L.). One seen on Cannock Chase on December 27th (C.D.T.M.). 110. Kestrel. I. Dark-coloured specimen again seen on several dates at Bartley Green (W.E.O.). A bird was seen feeding off a dead cat near Exhall on July 23rd (N.B.E.). II. Said to be still much scarcer than formerly in south of the county (A.J.H.). 120. Water-Rail. Recorded from several localities in winter months. II. A bird seen at Westminster Farm, Frankley, on November 23rd was asleep about six feet from ground in a large bush (G.H.E.). 125. Corncrake. II. A bird heard near Stourport in mid-May (per M.D.H.) and in the Tewkesbury area on June 10th (K.I.D.). 127. Coot. I. Maximum numbers at various waters were :— About 300 in September and October at Brandon (J.L., A.J.R.); 500 at Alvecote on October 3rd (D.E.J.) ; and 300 at Shustoke on November 24th (G.H.E., K.I.D.). III. The most seen at Belvide was about 650 on August 21st (R.J.B.) ; 750 at Blithfield on September 29th (T.W.F., J.L.) ; and about 250 at Cannock Reservoir on December 22nd (B.A.D., J.L.). 131. Oyster catcher. III. One occurred at Belvide on August 20th (K.H.T.) and five on September 1st (several observers). Five at Blithfield on August 31st may have been the same party (A.F.J.). Two flew over Branston to the south-west on September 22nd (C.C.O.). 133. Lapwing. II. Increase in breeding pairs noted at Sheriffs Lench, where 14 pairs bred on 1,000 acres and a nest with four eggs was seen on the early date of March 21st (A.J.H., T.C.S.). III. A bird with pale brown head, back and wings was seen at Drayton Bassett on February 2nd (G.A.A.). 1,500 estimated at Blithfield on September 11th (B.A.D.). 134. Ringed Plover. I. Small numbers up to six seen at Alvecote between April 17th and June 6th and again between August 6th and September 23rd (G.A.A.). Up to three noted at Brandon during late spring and early August (A.J.R.). II. Odd birds noted at Bittell during September (several observers). III. Recorded at Cannock Reservoir from March 31st (A.R.M.B.) until June 1st (A.F.J.) with 35 on May 13th 30 (B.A.D.) and again from July 13th (R.S.B.) until October 12th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) with numbers around 50 in second half of August and 80 on August 17th (J.L.). At Belvide two on May 10th (J.L.) was the only spring record. Occurred in autumn, up to nine, from July 25th until October 5th (B.C.). Recorded at Blithfield in small numbers from April 28th (L.S.) until May 5th (J.L.) and again from July 14th until September 11th (B.A.D.) with 12 on the 8th (J.L., L.S.). 135. Little Ringed Plover. I. Two seen at Alvecote on August 31st (G.A.A.) and one on September 3rd (T.A.W.K., J.S.). One recorded on September 22nd at Hams Hall—a new locality (K.I.D., G.H.E.). III. One or two seen at Cannock Reservoir on several dates from July 6th (A.F.J.) until August 16th (B.A.D.). Two were present at Blithfield on August 18th (J.L.B., J.W.) and 20th (T.W.F., J.L.). Pair seen at Branston during June (C.C.). 139. Grey Plover. III. All records came from Cannock Reservoir, where single birds in summer plumage occurred on May 11th (R.S.B.) and 25th (A.F.J.). One or two again recorded between September 19th (J.L.) and 28th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and again on November 30th (A.R.M.B.) and December 2nd (R.J.B.). 140. Golden Plover. I. About 200 noted at Attleborough Fields on March 23rd (A.T.S.) and 75 at Baginton on September 28th (A.J.R.). III. The largest flocks recorded were:—110 at Mile Oak on January 20th (B.W.J.) ; 300 at Pool Hall on the 26th (R.J.B.) ; 100 near Gailey on February 17th (R.E.W.) ; 450 at Drayton Bassett on the 24th (G.A.A. ); 200 at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on April 16th ; 200 at Cannock Reservoir on the 18th (R.S.B.) ; and 325 at Bonehill on December 28th (G.A.A.). Pairs apparently breeding seen on the North Staffordshire moors in June and July (H.L., L.S.). Northern Golden Plover. III. 19 seen at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on April 22nd (R.J.B.). 142. Dotterel. II. A bird seen at Bittell Reservoir on Septem- ber 9th in the company of two Ringed Plovers and could be approached to within a few feet before flying a short distance with a whistling note. Plumage points noted were :—Prominent white eye-stripe passing over eye and meeting at nape ; white on breast, throat and under-tail coverts ; brownish underparts darkening to black ; black bill; and orange-yellow legs (R.B., J.E.C.).

31 143. Turnstone. I. Two seen at Brandon on May 25th were the first recorded at the water (per A.J.R.). III. Three seen at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (A.R.M.B.) and single birds between July 22nd (R.S.B.) and August 29th (M.J.W.). Single birds reported at Blithfield on May 26th (M.C.W.E.) and August 11th (A.F.J.). 145. Common Snipe. I. The most seen at Alvecote was 70 in October and November (G.A.A.). III. The most recorded at Blithfield was about 80 on November 23rd (T.W.F., J.L.) and, at Belvide, about 60 on the same date (A.R.M.B.) and on December 19th (J.L.). At least 100 were present at Black brook Sewage Farm on December 15th (J.L., L.S.). 147. Jack Snipe. Small numbers recorded in spring, autumn or winter months at I. Alvecote (G.A.A., N.B.W.C.), Polesworth Sewage Works (G.A.A.), Hams Hall (K.I.D.) and Brandon, where unusual (A.J.R.). II. Bittell (M.D.H., J.L.). III. Belvide (several observers), Blith- field (T.W.F., J.L.), Cannock Reservoir (B.W.J.), Bas- wick (P.T.) and near Burton-on-Trent (C.D.T.M.). 148. Woodcock. I. Single birds noted in urban areas on November 10th at Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield (P.W.W.) and Pype Hayes, Birmingham (B.W.J.) and at Hands- worth, Birmingham, on December 15th (J.S.S.). Roding noted in Sutton Park (A.R.M.B.). Young seen at Waverley Wood on June 2nd (A.R.). II. Roding noted morning and evening at Randan Wood from February 25th to August 1st (F.F.). III. Roding recorded at Bagots Wood (T.W.F., J.L.), Highgate (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and Cannock Chase (T.M.T.) and bird flushed at Aqualate on June 9th (J.L.). 150. Curlew. Recorded from many areas in spring, summer and autumn. I. Winter records comprised a party of 15 birds flying north over Sutton Park on February 3rd (A.R.M.B.) and a bird near Hams Hall, where noted throughout the autumn, on December 22nd (K.I.D.). III. Reported throughout the year at Blithfield, where the most seen was 130 on August 20th (T.W.F., J.L.) and at Whittington, where 100 occurred on September 11th (G.V.R.L.). Two were seen at Belvide on December 15th (B.C.). 151. Whimbrel. I. One reported at Brandon on May 5th (A.J.R.). II. Single birds called in flight over Bredon Hill on May 12th and Sheriffs Lench on July 31st (T.C.S.). 32 III. Single birds recorded at Blithfield on July 14th (J.L.), an early date, on the 31st (C.D.T.M.) and on August 18th (J.L.B., J.W.) ; at Belvide on August 30th (M.D.H.) and September 11th (K.I.D.) ; and at Cannock Reservoir on August 27th (B.A.D.) and 31st (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 154. Black-tailed Godwit. I. One seen at Alvecote from August 1st to 3rd (G.A.A.). III. Recorded at Belvide between April 6th (A.F.J.) and the 27th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) in varying numbers, the most being four on the 23rd (A.R.M.B.). 155. Bar-tailed Godwit. There were more occurrences than in any previous year of the Club's records. I. One in summer plumage at Alvecote on April 27th was the first recorded there (G.A.A.). III. A similar bird was seen on the same date at Cannock Reservoir (A.R.M.B.) and on the 30th (R.S.B.) and single birds between May 5th (A.R.M.B., A.F.J., L.S.) and the 19th (A.J.R.) with two on the 11th (R.S.B.). One seen at Blithfield on September 29th (T.W.F., J.L.), with a flock of Curlews, and at Belvide on November 17th (several observers.). 156. Green Sandpiper. I. Single birds on April 7th at Baginton (A.W.H.W.) and on the 25th at Alvecote were the only spring records in the Club's area. Autumn passage noted from June 17th to September 2nd with three on August 6th and 7th (G.A.A.). At Brandon noted from June 30th (L.S.) to September 29th with 10 on July 21st (A.J.R.). Five seen at Baginton on June 30th (L.S.), one at Bartley, where unusual, on August 31st (G.H.E.) and three at Shustoke on October 20th (K.I.D.). Winter records were of single birds at Weddington on January 12th (D.M.), Mapelborough Green on February 9th (D.G.B.) and Atherstone on the 17th (H.L.) and December 1st (B.T.). III. Fewer than usual at Belvide, where one or two noted on July 28th (T.W.F., J.L.) and August 24th and then not until October 12th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) with several occurrences until December 21st (R.J.B.). Noted at Blackbrook Sewage Farm between July 7th and September 11th, with 12 on July 20th (R.J.B.) and at Blithfield between June 13th (T.W.F.) and September 11th (B.A.D.) with 10 on August 18th (T.W.F., J.L.). 157. Wood-Sandpiper. I. Single birds noted at Alvecote between May 23rd (J.L.) and 30th, with three on the 25th, and again from July 21st to August 18th (G.A.A.). At Brandon seen between May 26th and the 30th, with seven

33 on the first date, and, in autumn, one on September 1st (A.J.R.). III. At Blithfield two present on July 21st (A.F.J., J.L.) and one on July 30th (T.W.F.) and September 11th (B.A.D.). Single birds seen at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on July 30th (J.L.) and August 13th (R.J.B.) ; at Belvide on June 1st (several observers) ; and at Cannock Reservoir on August 31st (B.A.D.). 159. Common Sandpiper. Recorded from many waters in spring and autumn passage. I. Reported at Alvecote between April 17th and May 30th, with five on May 2nd (G.A.A.) and again between June 30th (L.S.) until August 28th, with five in early August (G.A.A.). At Bartley single birds seen on April 17th (R.B.) and May 5th and occurred from July 12th to August 25th, with eight on July 14th (G.H.E.). One or two seen at Brandon from May 22nd to 27th and again from August 6th to 18th (A.J.R.). At Brookvale Park, Birmingham, parties of 16 and 20 were seen on July 9th and 11th respectively (B.W.J.). II. Two seen at Wilden Pool on May 30th (H.S.H.-H.). At Bittell two seen in early May (P.J.M.) and up to four on August 18th (B.A.D.) and September 29th (G.H.E.). III. Noted at Cannock Reservoir from April 18th (R.S.B.) until May 26th (A.R.M.B.) with five on the last date, and again from July 13th (A.F.J.) until October 6th (B.A.D.) with about 10 on July 16th (W.E.O., R.L.S.). Single birds seen at Belvide on April 14th (several observers) and 15th (A.R.M.B.) and reported from July 20th (A.F.J.) until September 29th (several observers) with about 20 on July 25th (B.C.) and August 11th (A.R.M.B.). One at Blithfield on May 5th (J.L.) and autumn passage noted from July 7th until September 29th (T.W.F., J.L.) the most seen being 15 on July 20th (C.D.T.M.). Present throughout the summer at Branston (C.C.).

161. Redshank. I. Bred at Alvecote, Tame Valley (G.A.A.) and Brandon (A.J.R.). II. Bred at Beckford (T.C.S.). III. Bred at Branston (C.C.), Belvide (R.E.W.), Blithfield (K.I.D.)—the first definite record—and Rickerscote near River Penk (P.T.). A bird wintered at Belvide (several observers) and one seen at Cannock Reservoir on Decem- ber 2nd (R.J.B.). 162. Spotted Redshank. I. One or two reported at Alvecote between August 29th and September 11th (G.A.A.). Two seen at Brandon on May 26th (A.J.R.).

34 III. No records from the usual reservoirs. One noted at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on August 27th and a different bird on the 29th (R.J.B.). 165. Greenshank. I. Noted at Alvecote between May 26th and June 8th, with three on May 28th, and up to three present between July 20th and September 14th (G.A.A.). Spring passage reported at Brandon between April 27th and June 2nd, with seven on May 29th, which left to the north-east. Autumn passage noted from August 18th to September 29th, with three on September 1st (A.J.R.). One or two seen at Bartley on August 10th and 18th (G.H.E.), at Hams Hall on the 25th (K.I.D.) and at Baginton on the 8th, 15th and 22nd (A.J.R.). II. Two seen at Warley on September 6th (R.B.). III. No spring records at Cannock Reservoir or Belvide. One or two noted at the former between August 27th (B.A.D.) and September 15th (B.A.D., A.F.J.) and at the latter between July 7th and September 8th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) with a late record of one seen in nearby pasture on November 2nd (A.R.M.B.). Single birds noted at Blithfield between April 28th (L.S.) and June 6th (T.W.F., E.R.) and up to four between July 20th (C.D.T.M.) and September 11th (B.A.D.). Up to three seen at Black- brook Sewage Farm between July 7th and September 21st (A.J.R.). Three reported at Pendeford on September 14th (A.J.T.). 169. Knot. More records than usual. III. Noted at Cannock Reservoir from August 24th (R.S.B., B.A.D.) until October 21st (L.S.) with 13 on September 29th (S.C.B.). A 1956 record received late was of 10 on the unusual date of December 23rd (A.R.M.B.). At Blithfield, four present on August 18th (J.L.B., J.W.), three on the 20th (T.W.F., J.L.) and one on September 3rd (T.W.F.). Single birds reported at Belvide on August 15th (R.J.B., B.A.D.) and, in breeding plumage, on Sep- tember 29th (G.M.I., M.J.W.). 170. Purple Sandpiper. I. A very tame juvenile bird identified at Bartley Reservoir on September 14th was the first recorded for the reservoir. Almost black upper parts with greyish tint and slight gloss, whitish underparts and short pale yellow legs noted (G.H.F.). 171. Little Stint. I. Two seen at Brandon on May 26th, September 1st and 8th (A.J.R.). II. Three reported at Bittell on September 21st and one on the 29th (G.H.E.). III. Cannock Reservoir supplied all the records for the county and the numbers were large for the Club's area. Two were

35 reported on May 13th (B.A.D.). Occurred in autumn from August 12th (B.A.D.) until October 8th (G.M.I., M.J.W.) numbers being about 13 in mid-September, with 17 on the 24th (J.L.). 176. Pectoral Sandpiper. I. A bird, the first for the county and area, was seen at Alvecote from June 4th to 6th. (G.A.A., D.E.J.). Details noted were :—Pale but bold stripe over eye, black bill, light brown legs, fairly well- defined streaked pectoral patch, mottled brown back and wings, tail pattern somewhat like Ruff, slight wing-bar in flight, size rather larger than Ringed Plover and "tirrup- tirrup" call. 178. Dunlin. I. Noted at Alvecote from April 22nd to June 4th, with eight on May 9th. One present on June 27th, and autumn passage occurred from July 25th to October 13th, with 14 on September 21st (G.A.A.) and single birds on December 7th (A.R.M.B.) and 22nd (G.A.A.). Single birds seen at Brandon on May 12th, 26th and 27th, and at Baginton on September 8th and 15th (A.J.R.). Small numbers recorded at Bartley between July 30th and August 18th, and on October 5th and November 21st (G.H.E.). II. Small numbers present at Bittell on January 4th (R.B.), May 9th and 10th (P.J.M.) and between August 18th (B.A.D.) and October 7th (J.M.S.). III. At Belvide up to two seen between May 19th (R.E.W.) and 25th (A.F.J.). Recorded from July 14th (J.L.) to December 22nd (B.W.J.) in number under 10 except for 17 on August 15th (A.R.M.B.) and 12 on October 5th (B.C.). One seen at Blithfield on January 6th (J.L.) and small numbers between April 28th (L.S.) and May 26th (M.C.W.E.). Autumn passage reported from July 14th (J.L.) until September 18th (A.R.M.B.), the peak numbers being in late July, with 75 on the 28th (T.W.F., J.L.). At Cannock Reservoir occurred from March 31st (A.R.M.B.) to June 1st (A.F.J.), with 45 on May 13th (B.A.D.), and again from July 16th (W.E.O.) to December 7th (J.L.) with about 60 recorded by several observers on dates between August 19th and September 24th. Small numbers seen at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on August 19th and October 6th (J.L.). 179. Curlew-Sandpiper. I. A single bird in the company of a Dunlin was seen at Alvecote on September 9th and was the first record for the water (D.L., H.T.L.). One reported at Baginton from September 22nd to 29th (A.J.R.). III. One seen at Belvide on September 15th (A.R.M.B.). At Cannock Reservoir one noted on July 27th (B.A.D.) and 36 up to three between September 15th and 29th (A.J.R.) with probably more on the last date. 181. Sanderling. I. Three seen at Alvecote on June 4th, in winter plumage, six on September 18th (G.A.A.) and one on the 21st (G.A.A., H.T.L.). II. One noted at Bittell on May 18th (P.J.M.). III. One seen at Belvide on August 15th (B.A.D.). Small numbers, up to three, reported at Cannock Reservoir between May 8th (R.S.B.) and 19th (A.J.R.) and again between August 12th (B.A.D.) and September 26th (R.S.B.). Four seen at Blithfield on June 6th (T.W.F., E.R.). 184. Ruff. I. At Bartley, where apparently not previously recorded, a party of nine flew to the south-west on August 18th (G.H.E.). Noted at Alvecote, usually one or two, from May 27th to 30th, June 17th to 23rd, and again from July 27th to September 21st, with four on the last date (G.A.A.). One or two seen at Brandon on May 26th, 27th, August 6th and 22nd and at Baginton on September 8th (A.J.R.). III. Up to three noted at Belvide between March 31st (R.S.B., G.H.E., K.I.D.) and June 1st (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and again from July 20th (A.F.J.) until September 29th (several observers). Similar numbers seen at Cannock Reservoir from August 11th (W.E.O.) until September 26th (R.S.B.) and at Blithfield on May 5th (J.L.) and between July 30th (T.W.F.) and September 11th (B.A.D.). Up to three seen at Blackbrook Sewage Farm between August 16th and September 21st (R.J.B.). 187. Grey Phalarope. II. A bird was seen at Bittell on September 11th, when short, relatively broad black bill with pale area at base, horn-coloured legs, aid dark spot on face behind eye noted (W.N.A.T.). 193. Arctic Skua. I. One flew to the north-west over Alvecote on May 5th. Points noted by observers familiar with the species were :—Size that of Black-headed Gull, long central tail-feathers, angled and pointed wings, hawk-like flight and dark body (J.L.B., A.N.S., J.W.). 194. Great Skua. III. One arrived at Belvide just before dusk on November 9th, shot into the circling gulls and tumbled into the water with a Herring-Gull, which it proceeded to drown. It then fed off the breast, the remains being found later. Dark-brown plumage noted with prominent white patches at the base of the primaries (B.C.). 198. Greater Black-backed Gull. Small numbers seen at several reservoirs in autumn and winter.

37 199. Lesser Black-backed Gull. I. Recorded in all months at Alvecote (G.A.A.). 200 flew south over Wilnecote during two minutes on late afternoon of September 6th (M.A.A.). III. At least 200 gathered at Belvide at dusk for roosting on February 10th (several observers) and about 50, which were increasing, in the late afternoon at Blithfield on December 22nd (T.W.F., J.L.). Scandinavian Lesser Black-backed Gull. I. One identified in good light at Bartley Reservoir on December 29th (W.E.O.). 200. Herring-Gull. I. Two over Henley-in-Arden on Decem- ber 25th were the first seen by observer on many journeys from Long Compton in all months during last ten years (B.Ca.). III. About 200 recorded at, or flying towards, Belvide at dusk on January 8th (R.B.). 201. Common Gull. Small numbers in various areas in spring, autumn and winter months. III. At least 50 at Belvide roost in January and February (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 203. Iceland Gull. III. An immature bird seen at Belvide on January 20th, February 10th and 16th (B.C., K.I.D., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Identification points noted were :— All buff except for dark mark around eye and white outer primaries, size of bird and of bill rather less than that of neighbouring Herring-Gull and bird noticeably much sleeker, with particularly graceful flight, wings extending beyond tail. 207. Little Gull. III. An immature bird seen by many observers was present at Belvide from August 17th (B.C., G.M.I.) until the 20th (K.H.T.). 208. Black-headed Gull. III. Five pairs bred at Branston (C.C.). Estimates of birds at the Belvide roost towards dusk were 5,000 on December 23rd (W.E.O.) and 29th (B.A.D.). One ringed by the observer in Northumberland on July 5th, 1956, as a young bird, was picked up dead at Blithfield in July (C.D.T.M.). 211. Kittiwake. An influx noted in early February. I. One seen at Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on February 3rd (G.H.E.), and a dead bird picked up at Castle Brom- wich on the 6th (H.T.L.). II. Three seen at Bittell on February 10th (G.H.E.), one on the 16th (P.J.M.) and a dead bird reported on various dates in the same month (W.E.O., W.N.A.T.). One present

38 on May 18th (P.J.M.). A bird which had been long dead was seen at Fladbury on March 17th (T.C.S.). III. Three occurred at Belvide on February 9th (R.J.B.) and single birds on the 10th and 16th (B.C., K.I.D., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Dead birds were seen there on February 17th (J.A.S.) and April 21st (K.I.D., G.H.E.) and an immature was present on August 21st (R.J.B.).

212. Black Tern. I. At Alvecote seen between May 11th and June 20th, single birds except for six on the first date. Recorded again between August 5th and September 29th, with eight on August 9th, and up to five in late September (G.A.A.). Up to six recorded at Brandon between May 11th and June 21st and again on September 22nd (A.J.R.). One or two seen at Shustoke on May 25th (D.L., H.T.L.) and September 22nd (G.H.E., K.I.D.). Single birds noted at Earlswood on May 12th (R.L.S.) and at Bartley on September 3rd and 22nd (W.E.O.). II. Six passed over Bittell on September 21st (G.H.E.). III. At Belvide two seen on May 24th (R.E.W.) and 25th (several observers) and up to five between August 10th (B.C.) and the end of September, one bird then remaining until November 3rd (R.J.B., B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Four seen at Cannock Reservoir on May 11th (R.S.B.) and single birds on May 18th (A.R.M.B.), September 3rd (R.S.B.) and 22nd (A.F.J.). No spring records at Blith- field but 14 were present on August 8th (T.W.F.) and up to four between September 26th (C.D.T.M.) and 29th (T.W.F., J.L.). Six reported at Aqualate on September 22nd and one on October 20th (D.F.H.). One seen at Black Lake near Stoke-on-Trent on May 29th (R.C.).

217/218. Common/Arctic Tern. I. Small numbers, up to four, seen in spring at Alvecote (G.A.A.) and in autumn at Alvecote (G.A.A.), Bartley (G.H.E.), Brandon (A.J.R.)— with 16 on September 21st (E.J.B.)—and, moving to the south-west, over Witton Lakes and over Salford Bridge, Birmingham (B.W.J.). II. One or two seen in autumn at Bittell (G.H.E.) and Twyn- ing (P.J.C.). III. Small numbers up to five, occurred at Belvide between April 27th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and May 10th (J.L.) and also between July 28th (A.F.J.) and September 20th (A.R.M.B.) ; at Cannock Reservoir between May 5th (A.R.M.B.) and 21st and also between August 28th (R.S.B.) and September 24th (J.L.); and at Blithfield on May 5th and between July 28th and September 29th (T.W.F., J.L.).

39 217. Common Tern. I. Identified at Alvecote on May 11th and June 22nd and between July 4th and September 24th (G.A.A.) with 10 on July 13th (D.L., H.T.L.). Single birds seen at Brandon between August 5th and September 22nd (A.J.R.) and up to four at Earlswood on August 18th and 19th (A.W.C., J.N.S.). III. At Branston there were two breeding pairs with three non-breeders, and five young were reared (C.C.). Three identified at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (A.R.M.B.) and one on September 19th (J.C.). At Belvide single birds were seen on August 8th (G.M.I.), 18th (A.F.J.), October 8th (G.M.I.) and 10 on August 15th (B.A.D.). One or two reported at Blackbrook Sewage Farm on July 7th (R.J.B.) and at Blithfield on July 28th (T.W.F., J.L.) and August 8th (C.D.T.M.). 218. Arctic Tern. I. Single birds identified at Brandon on May 12th, August 11th and September 22nd (A.J.R.) and at Alvecote on August 26th (G.A.A.). III. One or two reported at Cannock Reservoir on May 5th and 18th (A.R.M.B.) and between August 18th (A.F.J.) and September 1st (several observers). Similar numbers occurred at Belvide on June 1st and July 7th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and between August 15th (R.J.B., B.A.D.) and September 22nd (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 219. Roseate Tern. III. One seen at Blithfield on August 8th for some minutes in good conditions, when strikingly white appearance, very long tail-streamers and black bill were noted and bird compared with Common/Arctic Terns (C.D.T.M.). 222. Little Tern. I. One present at Alvecote on August 6th (G.A.A., A.R.M.B.). II. Single birds seen at Bittell on April 27th and May 7th (P.J.M.). Ill A bird noted at Cannock Reservoir on August 5th (A.R.M.B.). One seen at Belvide on August 18th (J.L.) and three on the 20th (K.H.T.). 223. Sandwich Tern. II. Two reported at Bittell on May 18th (P.J.M.). III. Four seen at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (A.R.M.B.) and three at Belvide on August 15th (B.A.D.). 232. Stock-Dove. III. One seen on June 7th to alight on water at Belvide for a few seconds (J.L.). 234. Wood-Pigeon. I. 200 were seen in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on January 31st (R.S.B.). Marked reduction in numbers noted in second half of November in Bartley Green district (G.H.E.).

40 237. Cuckoo. I. A bird was seen and heard on the early date of March 12th at Exhall, where numbers in summer said to be fewer than previous years (N.B.E.), and also at Whitnash on the 14th (R.W.D.). II. Reported as very scarce in the Lenches, where no eggs or young were found by the observer for the first time in last 30 years (A.J.H.). 246. Little Owl. II. Some evidence of an increase in numbers around Frankley (W.E.O.). 249. Short-eared Owl. I. One seen near Bedworth on Decem- ber 26th (S.J.P.). 252. Nightjar. A summary of observations is included in the article on another page. 255. Swift. I. Marked periods of passage to the south-west noted in Tame Valley from July 14th to 30th and again from August 16th to 18th (G.A.A., M.A.A.). II. Concentrations of birds noted over Sheriffs Lench from August 1st to 7th, with about 700 on the 6th (T.C.S.). III. Birds passed to the south-west at Tut bury throughout the morning of August 19th (T.W.F.). Passage noted at Cannock Reservoir on the morning of May 5th, when about 250 moved to the north-west in an hour (A.R.M.B., L.S.). 258. Kingfisher. III. Six seen at Patshull Park on July 29th (G.V.R.L.). 263. Greater-Spotted Woodpecker. I. Bird visited garden at Hall Green, Birmingham, from October, to eat fat (K.H.T.). II. Similar behaviour noted at Malvern (M.P.-S.) and West Hagley (L.R.B.). III. Seen eating fat in garden at Stafford during November (per N.R.W.). On November 10th, seven birds were seen in open country near Cannock flying steadily north (L.S.). 264. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Autumn and winter records from many areas. I. Bred at Hartshill (H.L.) and Newbold Comyn (E.J.B.). II. Seen in spring and summer at Bittell (R.S.B.) and Wvre Forest (R.H.D., M.F., R.R.). III. Spring records from Enville (A.J.R.), Bagots Park, Blithfield (J.L.), Rugeley (C.D.T.M.) and Chillington Park (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 271. Woodlark. II. Heard singing on the Lickeys in March and September (R.S.B., C.J.C.) and pair seen on Castle- morton Common on May 12th (A.F.J.). Bred on edge of Wyre Forest (M.T.), Kidderminster (H.S.H.-H.), Hartle- bury Common (M.D.H.) and at Malvern (J.A.S.). III. Bred at Enville as usual (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.).

41 272. Skylark. I. Autumn movement to the south noted at Wilnecote from September 6th to October 11th, with peak numbers of about 50 per hour on the last date (G.A.A., M.A.A.). Up to 100 present at Bartley during winter months and distinct passage to the south-west noted on October 20th (W.E.O., G.H.E.). II. Decrease in breeding pairs continued in Sheriffs Lench area, where about two pairs occupied 1,000 acres (A.J.H.). A flock of 200 on December 17th was more than usual in the winter (T.C.S.). The same number collected at Bittell on the evening of September 29th, apparently for roosting (G.H.E.). 274. Swallow. I. Largest number noted at roosts were estimated as 400 at Hartshill on August 5th ; 500 at Alvecote on the 16th and 17th; 1,500 at Arbury on September 11th ; and 4,000 at Bedworth on the 19th (H.L.). About 300 moved south at Attleborough Fields on August 3rd (R.G.T.) and considerable movement noted at Bartley on September 3rd and 17th, with about 1,200 moving south in one hour on the latter date (W.E.O.). II. First autumn passage seen at Sheriffs Lench on August 6th (T.C.S.) and on the 10th in the Malvern area (P.J.C.) where fewer breeding birds than usual (M.P.-S.). III. A female ringed at the nest at Blithfield in 1956 was recovered alive at the same nest in August (C.D.T.M.). 277. Sand-Martin. I. Up to 500 roosted in reeds at Alvecote in mid-August (G.A.A.). Five pairs nested in a coal heap at Stockton (R.W.D.). 279. Raven. II. Two seen on Malvern Hills on August 18th (P.J.C.). III. One seen and heard over Cannock Reservoir flying to the south-west on September 22nd (B.A.D.). 280. Carrion-Crow. I. A pale grey bird was seen at close quarters at Barford on December 14th (B.Ca.). 282. Rook. II. Power station grid near Stourport again used for rookery with 13 nests (M.D.H.). 283. Jackdaw. I. Approximately 20 pairs nested in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham (R.S.B.). 284. Magpie. I. A flock of 22 at Wilnecote on September 29th was unusual for the district (G.A.A.). 286. Jay. I. One at Weddington on June 11th was seen to kill a House-Sparrow, which was then carried off by a Magpie (A.E.S.). Decided influx noted in the Bartley Green area on September 28th, when about 30 birds were counted in ones and twos, all very silent. (G.H.E.). III. On November 10th near Cannock 19 birds were seen flying steadily north at a low altitude (L.S.). 42 288. Great Tit. I. A bird at Bedworth was apparently double- brooded, rearing first nine and then four young in same nest box (R.A.S.). 61 birds were ringed at Nuneaton from August to December, including one ringed nearly five years earlier (H.L.). III. Cock bird at Eccleshall reared four out of six young after cat had killed female when they were a few days old (N.R.W.). 289. Blue Tit. I. More records than usual in autumn and winter from industrial centre of Birmingham (L.R.B., B.A.D., A.J.R., T.C.S.). Very abundant in Bartley Green area on November 2nd, many on open ploughed land (G.H.E.). 142 were trapped and ringed from August to December at Nuneaton, where one bird trapped had been ringed as a nestling near Stafford in 1956 (H.L.). 49 tits, mainly Blue Tits, were trapped in another Nuneaton garden on November 10th (J.W.). A marked increase noted in milk-top opening from early November in Tarn- worth district (G.A.A., M.A.A.) where exceptionally high numbers were noted after breeding season. 11. Unusually large flocks noted around Frankley from October 13th onwards (W.E.O.). 290. Coal-Tit. I. Recorded in autumn months for the first time by observers in gardens at Handsworth (S.C.B.), Quinton (W.E.O.), Erdington (J.L.), Tamworth (G.A.A., M.A.A.), Nuneaton (H.L.). 292. Marsh-Tit. III. Flock of at least 20 with other tits noted on December 27th in pine wood near Hanbury (C.C.O.). 293. Willow-Tit. I. Two birds ringed in late autumn in a Nuneaton garden, where had not been previously recorded (J.W.). II. Pair watched building in elder in Blackmore Woods, Malvern, on April 6th (P.J.C.). 294. Long-tailed Tit. I. Up to 11 seen during autumn in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham (R.S.B.). Reported as more numerous than usual from late September onwards at Bartley Green (A.R.M.B.) and Sutton Park (A.R.M.B., P.B.B.). II. Seen in early October in Malvern garden, where unusual (M.P.-S.). III. Reported as more numerous than usual in autumn at Belvide and Gailey (A.R.M.B.). Flock of at least 100 seen in coniferous woodland near Hanbury on March 12th (C.C.O.). A nest at Enville started on March 2nd was built with two holes in the top (J.L.).

43 296. Nuthatch. I. One seen in Brown's Coppice, Solihull, in early November was an addition to the area list (M.S.). III. Up to 10 seen at Chillington in spring (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 298. Tree-Creeper. I. Single birds seen in winter in Hands- worth Wood district, Birmingham (R.S.B.), and III Smethwick districts, where not often recorded (G.E.L.). 300. Dipper. II. Nest with eggs seen near Droitwich on April 24th and believed to have bred there for two previous years (D.G.B.). [An addition to the 1951 Breeding Survey.—Ed.] 301. Mistle-Thrush. III. About 12 birds seen singly or in pairs flying north at Cannock Reservoir during morning of October 13th (B.A.D.). 302. Fieldfare. I. The most recorded at various localities was 180 on January 13th at Alvecote, where 75 flew south- west on October 31st (G.A.A., M.A.A.); 150 at Wootton Pool on April 3rd (D.G.B.) ; 200 at Wolvey on November 10th; and 100 at Polesworth on December 1st (B.T.). At Exhall, 40 flew northerly on February 25th, and 25 on March 18th, and 20, to the south-east, on October 26th (N.B.E.). 50 flew south over Bartley Reservoir on November 3rd (G.H.E.). II. Commoner than last year around Frankley (W.E.O.). III. At Gailey about 30 flew north on April 7th (A.R.M.B.) and the most seen at Belvide was about 100 on December 1st. 50 flew easterly at Blithfield on March 24th (J.L.) and 24 west-south-west on November 6th at Eccleshall, where flocks of up to 100 noted during December (N.R.W.) 303. Song-Thrush. II. 49 nests recorded in Malvern area by observer, several pairs rearing three broods, one nest having no mud lining but no nest being used twice (M.P.-S.). 304. Redwing. I. A heavy passage noted over Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, on the night of January 4th (S.C.B.) and parties flew south-west at Alvecote on the 6th (G.A.A.). On October 12th, autumn nocturnal passage was first recorded over Four Oaks (A.R.M.B.) and over Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, where the rate was estimated at 35 birds per hour (S.C.B.). Similar movement occurred from October 1st to 15th at Nuneaton, where birds seen in area were fewer than usual (N.B.W.C.). A party of about 80 flew north over Handsworth on December 2nd (B.A.D.) and one of about 20 to the south over Hall Green, Birmingham, on the 3rd (D.H.). II. About 250 reported in roost on January 4th and December 19th at Sheriffs Lench, where first nocturnal autumn passage heard on October 13th (T.C.S.).

44 III. About 200 roosted near Blithfield on January 11th and about 350 at end of December, when 91 were caught and ringed (C.D.T.M.). At least 200 seen near Burton-on- Trent on December 14th (C.C.O.). 307. Ring-Ouzel. II. An immature bird reported at Bittell on September 7th (A.F.J.). III. Usual breeding records from north Staffordshire moors (H.L.). 308. Blackbird. II. 128 nests recorded by observer in Malvern area and several were used to rear two and three broods (M.P.-S.). 311. Wheatear. Occurred in small numbers at many places in spring and autumn. II. Bred on Malvern Hills (M.P.-S.). About nine reported at Brandhall golf course on July 29th (R.B.) and about 12 at Frankley Reservoir on August 10th (G.H.E.). III. Bred at Enville (E.M.B., E.M.G.). 25 occurred at Cannock Reservoir on August 12th (B.A.D.). Greenland Wheatear. I. A bird trapped near Nuneaton on April 20th was considered from appearance to be of this race and the wing measurement gave support. (J.W.). II. Good views were obtained on April 24th at Sheriffs Lench of a bird assigned to this race from stance, colouration and size (A.J.H.). 317. Stonechat. No evidence of breeding in the area. I. Single birds seen at Bodymoor Heath on September 18th (G.A.A.) and October 25th (G.A.A., A.R.M.B.) and at Brandon on December 1st (A.J.R.). II. Two reported near Wilden during November (M.D.H.). III. One or two seen on Cannock Chase from October 27th (A.F.J.) to December 27th (C.D.T.M.). Single birds noted at Belvide on October 6th (B.C., M.J.W.) and at Cannock Reservoir on December 15th (R.G.B., B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 318. Whinchat. I. One seen at Rotton Park Reservoir, Birmingham, on August 1st was the first reported at the reservoir (M.J.M.L.). 12 pairs located within four-miles radius of Nuneaton, one female having been ringed as a nestling in 1956, 105 eggs found and 62 young ringed (J.W.). II. Bird at Castlemorton Common on June 16th was seen to capture a cinnabar moth (J.L.). Seven seen around Frankley Reservoir on migration on September 22nd (W.E.O.). 320. Redstart. I. A cock bird seen at Earlswood on March 31st was an early arrival (R.L.S.). No spring record from the Tamworth area (G.A.A.).

45 322. Nightingale. II. Two heard in Chaddersley Woods during May (F.F.). 325. Robin. II. As reported in "British Birds," November, 1957, a nest with screen of dead leaves was used to rear two broods at Malvern (M.P.-S.). III. A bird ringed in 1954 at Rugeley was normal when recovered up to March 1956, white appeared on head in the 1956/7 winter, and when re-trapped the following March had white patches behind the eyes and white flecking showing on breast, nape and mantle (C.D.T.M.). 327. Grasshopper-Warbler. II. At least four singing on Malvern Hills near Castlemorton on June 29th (M.P.-S.). III. Seven birds heard singing at Seven Springs, Cannock Chase, on May 18th (P.T.). 333. Reed-Warbler. I. About six pairs present at colony at Brandon (A.J.R.), eight at Alvecote (G.A.A.) and 12 at Minworth (S.C.B.). At Arbury, where two adult birds ringed three years ago were noted, 28 nests were found and 87 nestlings ringed (J.W.). III. Noted at Dimmingsdale on June 15th, the first seen by observer in the locality (R.J.B.). At least six pairs noted at Copmere and four at Chillington (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 334. Marsh-Warbler. II. At least three pairs noted in Tewkesbury area on June 16th (S.C.B.). 337. Sedge-Warbler. II. One on lower slopes of Malvern Hills on August 8th (P.J.C.) and at Westminster Farm, Frankley, on July 16th and September 3rd (G.H.E., W.E.O.) were unusual for the localities. III. Approximately 40 singing birds recorded along canal at Tixall (P.T.). 343. Blackcap. I. Two pairs at Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, seen throughout the summer and four cocks seen on May 11th (R.S.B.). II. More seen in Malvern area than usual (M.P.-S.). 346. Garden-Warbler. I. One singing on May 11th at Dost- hill Hall was the only bird located by observer in the Tamworth district (G.A.A.). II. Sustained sub-song heard from bird of the year at Sheriffs Lench on August 3rd (T.C.S.). 347. Whitethroat. I. Seven were trapped in Nuneaton garden on August 3rd (J.W.) and birds were noted as numerous about river side at Attleborough on same date (R.G.T.). II. First autumn passage reported at Sheriffs Lench on August 7th, when about 35 birds appeared in six acres of blackberry bushes (T.C.S.). 348. Lesser Whitethroat. II. Five heard in Guarlford to Hanley Swan area on May 2nd was more than usual 46 (P.J.C.). Several heard in the Berrow, Eldersfield, Pen dock areas on May 12th (several observers). III. One noted at Copmere on June 2nd (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.) and on September 8th near Boxobel (A.J.T.). A bird trapped at Rugeley on July 1st was the first seen in the area by the observer (C.D.T.M.). 354. Willow-Warbler. I. Reported as abundant at Baginton Marsh on April 7th (A.W.H.W.) and at Arbury on the 9th (P.R.K., R.G.T.). Single birds moved north through Exhall all day on April 11th (N.B.E.). On August 5th and 6th distinct passage noted at Harborne, with about 20 in half an acre of allotments (M.C.W.E.). II. Main arrival in Malvern area was from April 4th to 6th (P.J.C.) and first autumn passage occurred at Sheriffs Lench on August 2nd (T.C.S.). III. A big influx noted in Rugeley area on April 5th (C.D.T.M.) and birds were well established at Seighford on the same date (N.R.W.). 356. Chiffchaff. I. One heard and seen at Solihull on February 24th (G.C.). Two pairs seen in Edgbaston Park, Birming- ham, throughout summer (R.S.B.). II. A distinct influx noted at Sheriffs Lench on March 23rd (T.C.S.) and on the Lickeys on the 27th (C.J.C.). A bird trapped on March 29th at Rugeley was ringed in the same place as breeding adult in 1956 (C.D.T.M.). 357. Wood-Warbler. I. One singing in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on May 4th (R.S.B.). II. Usual records from Wyre Forest, Lickeys and Malvern Hills. III. One heard at Severn Springs, Cannock Chase, on May 19th but not subsequently (P.T.). 364. Goldcrest. I. Small numbers seen in Birmingham at Handsworth Wood in January and December (R.S.B.) and at Harborne on September 26th (M.C.W.E.) were unusual for the areas. Said to be rather more numerous than usual in autumn in Alvecote area (G.A.A.). II. Small parties seen on September 22nd and October 20th at Frankley where uncommon (W.E.O.). 366. Spotted Flycatcher. I. As usual not numerous around Tamworth (G.A.A.). II. Influx noted near Halesowen on June 2nd, when about seven birds appeared (W.E.O.). Bird used same nest for second brood in Lickeys (C.J.C.). 16 nests recorded by observer in Malvern area, one pair using an old Swallow's nest and another a Song-Thrush's nest on a wall ledge (M.P.-S.). III. Three birds trapped at Rugeley in June had been ringed in the same garden in 1956, two as adults from separate

47 pairs and one as a nestling (C.D.T.M.). Passage noted at Cannock Reservoir in late August, with three birds on the 31st (B.A.D.). 368. Pied Flycatcher. I. Pair seen at Moreton Morrell on May 4th (E.J.B.). II. About 10 singing birds heard along one mile of Dowles Brook, Wyre Forest, on May 19th (H.L.). III. A bird singing at Sherbrook, Cannock Chase, on May 12th was not observed subsequently (P.T.). 373. Meadow-Pipit. I. About 50 moved south-south-east at Foleshill on March 7th (A.W.H.W.). At Alvecote a nest on April 30th was the first breeding record reported there. Decided passage to the south noted on October 10th (G.A.A.). II. Several breeding pairs noted on Bredon Hill on May 12th (T.C.S.). Movement to the south-west seen at Frankley on October 20th (W.E.O.). III. Peak numbers on passage occurred at Cannock Reservoir in early September (R.S.B., A.R.M.B.). 376. Tree-Pipit. II. First autumn migrants noted at Sheriffs Lench on August 3rd (T.C.S.) and in Nuneaton area on August 11th and 12th (H.L.). 379. Rock-Pipit. I. A spinoletta called as it flew over Body- moor Heath on October 25th (A.R.M.B.). III. Small numbers identified by several observers at Cannock Reservoir and Belvide during October. 380. Pied Wagtail. I. About 150 roosted at Alvecote on September 3rd (J.S., T.A.W.K.) and October 2nd (G.A.A.), 200 at Hartshill on September 21st (H.L.) and 50 at Minworth on November 16th (H.T.L.). II. About 150 roosted at Westminster Farm, Frankley, in late December (W.E.O.). White Wagtail. Spring records, usually one or two birds, from several waters. III. A compact flock of 10 noted at Cannock Reservoir on April 24th and up to seven present on May 5th (A.R.M.B.). 381. Grey Wagtail. Spring, autumn and winter records from many areas including city areas of Birmingham. II. One seen at Great Witley on June 10th (F.F.). III. A bird noted on river Blythe on May 26th (M.C.W.E.). 382. Yellow Wagtail. I. The most seen at Alvecote was 40 on August 7th and at Bartley 15 on the 31st (G.H.E.). Pairs seen on May 13th at Salford Priors and in Southam area (T.C.S.). About 20 flew south-west near Leamington on August 18th (E.J.B.). II. Bird seen at Great Witley on June 16th (F.F.), a pair at Wilden Pool throughout May (H.S.H.-H.) and seen feeding 48 young on July 23rd at Upton Warren (W.N.A.T.). [An addition to the 1951 Breeding Survey—Ed.]. About 16 present at Titford on August 12th (R.B.). III. Reported as well established in Eccleshall-Ellenhall area by April 21st (N.R.W.). At Belvide, 75 present on August 15th (B.A.D.) and a late peak was 50 on September 15th (A.R.M.B.). The most seen at Cannock Reservoir was about 45 at the end of August (R.S.B., B.A.D.). Small groups moved south-west at Tut bury on August 19th (T.W.F.). 383. Waxwing. II. A pair seen at Burcot, Bromsgrove, feeding on apple and barberries on November 16th (W.N.A.T.). III. Two reported in hawthorn bush near Branston on Novem- ber 21st (C.C.O.) and one in rowan tree at Wolverhampton on December 23rd (M.J.W.). 384. Great Grey Shrike. III. A bird was seen at close range at Belvide on October 20th and gave a subdued song from top of ash tree for five minutes. Pale grey upper-parts, black eye patch with a white stripe above, narrow white wing-bar on black wings, and black tail with white edging noted (R.J.B., B.W.J., G.H.J.). 388. Red-backed Shrike. II. A pair at Wilden first seen on May 23rd were feeding three young on July 28th (M.D.H.). One seen at Hartlebury Common on May 26th and 27th (M.D.H., E.Hu.). Two cocks noted at Malvern Wells on May 26th (A.F.J.). Nest with four eggs found on Malvern Hills on May 27th (M.P.-S.). 389. Starling. I. Noticeably less abundant in Tamworth district than in normal winters (G.A.A., M.A.A.). Esti- mated numbers roosting at various places were :—7,500 at Newton Gorse on February 21st, 700 at Alvecote on August 17th, 8,000 at Arbury on October 31st and 100,000 at Clifton Rough, near Tamworth, on December 27th (H.L.). II. A pure white bird with golden bill and legs and crimson feet seen at Malvern on January 7th (M.P.-S.). III. A bird of uniform metallic grey colour seen near Gailey on January 6th (K.H.T.). About 250,000 present near Round Hill Sewage Farm on December 28th (G.V.R.L.). 391. Hawfinch. I. Three seen near Solihull on March 11th (G.C.) and one at Warwick on June 23rd (D.G.M.). II. Three birds seen on the Lickeys on June 20th (C.J.C.) and one near Stourport on December 25th (M.D.H.). III. Up to four birds seen at Belvide on February 10th (several observers) and two at Enville on March 3rd and May 5th (A.F.J.). 49 392. Greenfinch. I. Flock of at least 150 seen at Bartley on July 27th (G.H.E.). III. A flock of about 100 noted at Drayton Bassett on February 2nd (G.A.A.), 150 at Aldridge on the 9th (J.L.) and 100 at Cannock Reservoir on August 28th (R.S.B.). At least 100 were roosting at Blithfield with other finches at end of December (C.D.T.M.). 393. Goldfinch. I. A flock of about 50 seen at Moreton Morrell on October 7th (J.H.L.), 35 noted in Sutton Park on November 23rd (P.B.B.) and 30 at Oldbury, near Nuneaton, on December 8th (H.L.). II. Four nests, all successful, recorded in Davenham garden, Malvern (M.P.-S.). 394. Siskin. Small numbers at many localities mainly in winter months. II. 30 on March 10th was the most seen in the Lickey-Bittell area (A.F.J.). III. At Chillington at least 30 noted on January 27th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). 395. Linnet. I. 50 seen at Alvecote on January 24th and up to 100 during September (M.A.A., G.A.A.), 40 at Exhall on January 3rd (N.B.E.) and flock of 80 at Hartshill on March 10th (H.L.). II. About 50 at Bittell on January 17th (G.H.E.) and 120 on October 15th (J.L.). III. 150 seen at Blithfield on January 27th (J.L.), 100 at Seisdon on September 21st (R.J.B.), 200 at Cannock Reservoir in late September (A.R.M.B., J.L.), 50 near Branston on November 2nd (C.C.O.), and 200 at Drayton Bassett on the 16th (D.J.M.). 396. Twite. I. One identified at Earlswood on February 17th (A.W.C., J.N.S.) and five at Four Oaks on September 16th (A.R.M.B.). III. Up to 20 seen at Cannock Reservoir on January 3rd and February 9th (M.J.W.) and again from September 29th (A.R.M.B.) to December 29th (A.F.J., J.L.) with 36 on the 15th (several observers). Three noted at Belvide on December 1st (A.J.T.). 397. Redpoll. Recorded at many localities in winter, spring and autumn months. I. About 50 on February 3rd was the most seen in Sutton Park (A.R.M.B.). II. The most seen in the Lickeys was about 50 on March 4th (R.S.B.). III. A flock of at least 100 with several Siskins seen on Cannock Chase on March 24th (K.H.T.).

50 401. Bullfinch. Increases reported from several areas, particularly in winter parties. I. Increase reported in Nuneaton area (N.B.W.C.) and flock of 60 seen at Bedworth on July 30th (R.K.S.). II. About 30 seen in Barnt Green area on January 4th (R.B.) and at least 21 present on Hartlebury Common on Decem- ber 15th (K.H.T.). III. General increase noted around Rugeley (C.D.T.M.) and in early December between Burton-on-Trent and Abbots Bromley (C.C.O.). 404. Crossbill. II. Recorded in Lickey Woods from January 2nd (A.F.J.) until March 28th (C.J.C.), about 20 on the 24th (W.N.A.T.) being the most seen. III. Reported at Enville between March 3rd and May 5th (A.F.J.) with about 36 on April 7th (B.C., G.M.I., M.J.W.). Two seen near Whittington on April 28th (D.J.M.). 407. Chaffinch. II. At least 300 seen with Bramblings in Lickey Woods on March 7th (W.N.A.T.). III. Approximately 2,300 birds, mainly Chaffinches with some other finches, passed south-west over Enville in about 30 minutes in late afternoon of February 9th, probably to roost in Enville Hall area (J.L.). About 250 noted at Cofton Hackett, with Bramblings, on February 17th (R.S.B.). 350 estimated roosting at Blithfield at end of December, of which 130 were caught and ringed (C.D.T.M.). 408. Brambling. Reported from several areas in winter, spring and autumn months. I. About 100 noted in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on February 24th (R.L.S.) and 25th (W.E.O.) and occurred in gardens in area (H.K.S.). II. Said to be less common around Frankley than in previous year (W.E.O.). About 150 noted at Cofton Hackett on February 17th (R.S.B.) and in Lickey Woods on March 7th (W.N.A.T.). III. About 75 roosted near Blithfield at end of December, of which 36 were caught and ringed (C.D.T.M.). 409. Yellow Hammer. I. Song heard at Alvecote on Septem- ber 17th, October 6th and November 10th and at Body- moor Heath on November 16th (G.A.A.). II. Noted as commoner than usual around Frankley in autumn and winter, with about 300 present on December 8th (W.E.O.). Flock of 75 seen at Sheriffs Lench in late December (T.C.S.). III. At least 100 noted between Burton-on-Trent and Branston on November 2nd (C.C.O.). 410. Corn-Bunting. I. Noted at Newbold Pacey on March 16th (R.W.D.), at Brandon on June 30th (L.S.) and July 7th (A.J.R.), and near Leamington on October 13th (E.J.B.).

51 II. Heard singing on May 12th at Pixham (F.F.) and Upton- on-Severn (A.J.H., G.C.L.) and near Tewkesbury on June 16th (S.C.B.). 415. Cirl Bunting. II. Birds seen in different localities near Malvern on May 2nd (P.J.C.) and 12th (L.S.) and nest with two eggs found on June 2nd (J.L.). A note is included elsewhere on a search of areas in South Worcestershire on May 12th. 421. Reed-Bunting. I. Three pairs summered at Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, and probably nested there (R.S.B.). Song recorded at Alvecote on September 15th (G.A.A.). II. About 30 seen around Frankley on December 8th, and 50 roosted at Westminster Farm at the end of the year (W.E.O.). III. A late nest at Belvide had three newly-hatched young on August 25th (L.S.). Autumn passage reached a peak at Cannock Reservoir on September 29th, when at least 50 were present (A.R.M.B.). 26 in a mixed flock noted at Branston on December 7th (C.C.O.). 423. Snow-Bunting. III. Up to three seen at Cannock Reservoir from November 16th (A.R.M.B., A.F.J.) until the 30th (several observers). One occurred at Blithfield on November 23rd (T.W.F., J.L.). 424. House-Sparrow. II. An albino seen at Sheriffs Lench from August 1st until end of November (A.J.H.). 425. Tree Sparrow. I. Very good breeding season in Tam- worth district, where pairs evicted tits from nest boxes (G.A.A.). II. Nested in platform lamp on Hagley railway station (L.R.B.). Small flocks headed south on September 23rd over the Lickeys, where uncommon (C.J.C.). About 80 seen at Bittell on October 15th (J.L.) and 100 near Frankley on November 24th (W.E.O.). III. Flock of about 400 noted at Blithfield on February 24th (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.). Odd birds seen in late September and early October at Cannock Reservoir were the first recorded there by observer (A.R.M.B.). Over 100 reported near Branston on November 2nd (C.C.O.).

In addition to the birds mentioned in the Classified Notes, the following species are known to breed in the Club's area :— Mute Swan, Sparrow-Hawk, Red Grouse, Black Grouse, Red-legged Partridge, Partridge, Pheasant, Moorhen, Turtle-Dove, Barn-Owl, Tawny Owl, Long-eared Owl (believed), Green Woodpecker, House- Martin, Wren, Hedge-Sparrow.

1956 REPORT ADDENDA p. 52. Add L. Smith and Mr. G. M. Lewis (G.M.L.) to list of contributors.

52 MIGRANTS The average arrival or departure date given below after the name of each bird is based respectively on the first and last dates given in the Annual Reports up to 1957. The figure in brackets is the number of years on which the average is calculated.

ARRIVALS. DEPARTURES. Chiffchaff. Av. = March 18 (23) Av. = October 6 (23) Feb. 24 Solihull (G.C.) Oct. 2 Sheriffs Lench (T.C.S.) March 11 Randan Wood (F.F.) Sept. 29 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 12 Exhall (N.B.E.) 29 Frankley (W.E.O.) 12 Marchington Woodlands (C.C.O.) Sand-Martin. Av.=March 25 (22) Av. = September 30 (22) March 11 Bishopton Hill (F.J.N.) Sept. 30 Baswick (P.T.) 16 Bittell (K.H.T.) 29 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 17 Belvide (W.E.O.) 29 Frankley (W.E.O.) 17 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) Wheatear. Av.= March 27 (20) Av. = September 25 (21) March 13 Edgbaston (W.E.O.) Nov. 2 Lickeys (R.G.S.) 13 Handsworth (A.T.E.) Oct. 14 Tysoe (T.T.) 17 Cannock Res. (D.J.M.) 13 Cannock Res. (B.A.D.) 11 Bushbury Hill (R.J.B.) Willow-Warbler. Av. = March 29 (23) Av. = September 24 (23) March 24 Earlswood Sept. 22 Frankley (W.E.O.) (A.W.C., J.N.S.) 21 Wolverhampton 30 Alvecote (G.A.A.) (R.J.B.) 31 Many records 17 Bittell (D.M.H.)

Swallow. Av. = April 4 (23) Av. = October 21 (23) March 30 Randan Wood (F.F.) Nov. 15 Cod sail Wood (per B.C.) 31 Chillington (G.M.I.) Oct. 27 Little Aston (B.W.J.) 31 Bittell (A.F.J., G.E.L.) 22 Coventry (N.B.W.C.) 19 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) Blackcap. Av. = April 6 (23) Av. = September 19 (20) March 24 Halesowen (W.E.O.) Oct. 15 Halesowen (W.E.O.) 30 Malvern (M.P.-S.) Sept. 5 Randan Wood (F.F.) 30 Earlswood 3 Kings Heath, (A.W.C., J.N.S.) Birmingham (D.M.H.) 31 Bewdley (M.D.H.)

Yellow Wagtail. Av. = April9 (21) Av. = October 1 (20) April 5 Belvide (J.L.) Oct. 26 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) 6 Blithfield (D.J.M.) 12 Branston (C.C.O.) 7 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 10 Barford (F.J.N.)

Tree-Pipit. Av. = April 10 (20) Av. = September 15 (19) April 5 Enville (H.K.S.) Sept. 20 Lickeys (C.J.C.) 6 Minworth (H.T.L.) 1 Brandon (A.J.R.) 14 Meriden (H.L.)

Garganey. Av. = April 10 (15) Av. = September 9 (14) March 23 Arbury (N.B.W.C.) Sept. 11 Blithfield (B.A.D.) April 11 Bittell (W.N.A.T.) Aug. 25 Belvide (G.M.I.) 11 Alvecote (J.L.) 13 Belvide (R.J.B.)

53 ARRIVALS. DEPARTURES. Cuckoo. Av. = April 12 (21) Av. = September 20 (20) March 12 Exhall (N.B.E.) Sept. 3 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 14 Whitnash (R.W.D.) Aug. 25 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) April 5 Hagley (L.R.B.) 23 Wolverhampton 17 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) (M.J.W.) 18 River Severn (M.D.H.) Common Sandpiper. Av. = April 12 (21) April 10 Baswick (P.T.) Av. = October 9 (18) 14 Belvide (G.M.I., Oct. 6 Cannock Res. (B.A.D.) W.E.O.) Sept. 29 Bittell (R.C.) 17 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 29 Belvide (G.M.I.) 17 Bartley (R.B.) 29 Blithfield (T.W.F., J.L.) Redstart. Av. = April 12 (21) Av. = September 9 (21) March 31 Earlswood (R.L.S.) Sept. 26 Harborne (M.C.W.E.) April 4 Cofton Woods (J.R.) 7 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 6 Lickeys (C.J.C.) 3 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) 6 Enville (R.J.B.) House-Martin. Av. = April 13 (23) Av. = October 22 (23) April 4 Exhall (N.B.E.) Nov. Bodymoor Heath 15 Bittell (D.M.H.) (G.A.A.) 18 Baswick (P.T.) 4 Warwick (F.J.N.) 20 Earlswood (A.W.C., Oct. 27 Frankley (W.E.O.) J.N.S.) 26 Coven (B.C.) 26 Exhall (N.B.E.) Whitethroat. Av. = April 16 (23) Av. = September 17 (23) April 10 Exhall (N.B.E.) Oct. 10 Exhall (N.B.E.) 14 Dodford (F.F.) Sept. 22 Belvide (G.M.I.) 15 Bittell (W.N.A.T.) 21 Wolverhampton (R.J.B.) 20 Many records Nightingale. Av.= April 19 (21) April 21 Inkberrow (J.A.S.) No records 27 Wilmcote (W.T.T.) 28 Offchurch (E.J.B.) 28 Aston Cantlow (J.G.R.) Wood-Warbler. Av. = April 21 (22) Av=August 7 (15) April 13 Ufton Wood (E.J.B.) Aug. 13 Malvern Hills (P.J.C.) 24 Wyre Forest (M.D.H.) 5 Randan Wood (F.F.) May 4 Edgbaston (R.S.B.) 4 Lickeys (A.F.J.) Sedge-Warbler. Av. = April 21 (21) Av. = September 20 (14) April 18 Alvecote (G.A.A.) Sept. 20 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 20 Bubbenhall (A.R.) 15 Brandon (A.J.R.) 21 Hartshill (H.L.) 8 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) Lesser-Whitethroat. Av. = April 22 (21) April 22 Alvecote (G.A.A.) Av. = September 13 (21) 23 Belvide (A.R.M.B.) Sept. 15 Frankley (W.E.O.) 23 Weston-in-Arden 8 Belvide (G.M.I.) (N.B.W.C.) Aug. 31 Cannock Res. (B.A.D.) Grasshopper-Warbler. Av. = April 22 (21) April 21 Eccleshall (N.R.W.) Av. = August 16 (7) 22 Arbury (H.L.) Aug. 5 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 23 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 54 ARRIVALS. DEPARTURES. Pied Flycatcher. Av. = April 24 (12) May 4 Wyre Forest (H.S.H.-H.) No records 4 Moreton Morrell (E. J.B.) 12 Cannock Chase (P.T.) Garden-Warbler. Av.= April 24 (20) April 20 Solihull (G.C.) Av. = August 20 (19) 21 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) Aug. 17 Penn (G.M.I.) 22 Monks Kirby 6 Harborne (M.C.W.E.) (N.B.W.C.) 4 Marchington Woodlands (C.C.O.) 4 Earlswood (R.L.S.) Whinchat. Av. = April 26 (21) Av. = September 19 (18) April 23 Alvecote (G.A.A.) Sept. 26 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 25 Tamworth (H.T.L.) 22 Frankley (W.E.O.) 27 Nuneaton (N.B.W.C.) 20 Blackbrook Sewage Farm (A.R.M.B.) Swift. Av. = April 26 (23) Av. = September 5 (23) April 22 Coughton (D.M.H.) Sept. 15 Kidderminster 24 Foleshill (N.B.W.C.) (M.C.W.E.) 27 Belvide (G.M.I.) 13 Earlswood (A.W.C., J.N.S.) 9 Bittell (R.B.) Turtle-Dove. Av.=May 1 (22) Av. = September 14 (22) May 5 Cannock Chase (L.S.) Sept. 27 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 5 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 22 Branston (C.C.O.) 6 Combroke (F.J.N.) 13 Kingsbury (J.N.) Reed-Warbler. Av.=May 1 (17) Av. = September 8 (9) April 25 Arbury (H.L.) Sept. 17 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 28 Baswick (P.T.) 12 Arbury (N.B.W.C.) 28 Kempsey (BA D.) Spotted Flycatcher. Av.=May7 (20) April 22 Haselor (D.M.H.) Av. = September 19 (20) May 10 Malvern (M.P.-S.) Sept. 26 Harborne (M.C.W.E.) 13 Warwick (D.G.M.) 22 Kidderminster (M.D.H.) 16 Leamington (F.J.N.) 22 Rowley Park (P.T.) 16 Caldecote (H.L.) Red-backed Shrike. Av.=May 17 (12) May 23 Wilden (M.D.H.) Aug. 20 Malvern Hills (M.P.-S.) Nightjar. Av. = May 18 (17) Av.= August 13 (7) May 7 Waverley Wood (A.R.) Aug. 14 Whitnash (J.H.L.) 18 Cannock Chase (P.T.) 8 Rowley Park (P.T.) 21 Kidderminster (H.S.H.-H.) Marsh-Warbler. Av. = June 1 (15) No records No records Golden Plover. Av. = September 7 (12) Aug. 31 Cannock Res. (B.A.D.) Av.=March 31 (12) Sept. 1 Blithfield (W.E.O.) April 27 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 1 Lichfield (T.M.T.) 22 Blackbrook Sewage Farm (R.J.B.) 18 Cannock Res. (R.S.B.)

55 ARRIVALS. DEPARTURES. Wlgeon. Av. = September 10 (19) Av. = April 29 (23) Sept. 7 Bittell (A.F.J.) April 24 Belvide (R.J.B.) 8 Belvide (G.M.I.) 21 Blithfield (A.R.M.B.) 18 Blithfield (A.R.M.B.) 15 Brandon (A.J.R.) Lesser Redpoll. Av. = September 22 (13) Sept. 7 Bittell (A.F.J.) Av. = April 21 (14) 8 Belvide (G.M.I.) April 21 Randan Wood (F.F.) 14 Cannock Res. (J.L.) 15 Lickeys (C.J.C., W.E.O., R.L.S.) Redwing. Av. = October 3 (23) Av. = April 9 (23) Sept. 29 Lickeys (C.J.C.) April 7 Frankley (W.E.O.) 30 Hutton (F.J.N.) 5 Malvern (P.J.C.) Oct. 1 Coventry (A.J.R.) 3 Wootton Pool (D.G.B.) 1 Nuneaton (N.B.W.C.)

Pintail. Av. = October 9 (13) Av. = April 14 (17) Sept. 19 Blithfield (J.L.) April 14 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) 28 Alvecote (G.A.A.) March 3 Belvide (G.M.I.) 29 Belvide (G.M.I.) Jack Snipe. Av. = October 12 (16) Av. = March 26 (13) Sept. 1 Belvide (A.R.M.B.) April 27 Brandon (A.J.R.) Oct. 1 Cannock Res. (B.W.J.) 14 Alvecote (D.E.J.) 15 Bittell (J.L.) 13 Belvide (G.M.I.) 27 Alvecote (H.L.)

Brambling. Av. = October 12 (23) Av. = April 4 (22) Oct. 13 Frankley (W.E.O.) April 17 Lickeys (C.J.C.) 20 Belvide (G.M.I.) March 24 Bittell (W.E.O.) 12 Edgbaston (R.S.B.) 11 Randan Wood (F.F.) Fieldfare. Av. = October 18 (22) Av. = April 27 (22) Sept. 23 Minworth (H.T.L.) May 10 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) Oct. 9 Wilnecote (M.A.A.) 5 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 13 Cannock Res. (B.A.D.) April 24 Tamworth (H.T.L.) 17 Handsworth Wood (R.S.B.)

Golden-Eye. Av. = Oct. 22 (19) Av.= April 24 (20) Oct. 6 Belvide (J.L.) May 2 Blithfield (J.L.) Nov. 2 Alvecote (G.A.A.) April 24 Belvide (R.J.B.) 5 Blithfield (J.L.) 14 Bodymoor Heath (J.N.) 10 Bartley (W.E.O.)

Siskin. Av. = October 27 (20) Av. = April 3 (21) Oct. 12 Sutton Park (P.B.B.) April 15 Rednal (R.L.S.) 12 Bittell (A.F.J.) 15 Lickeys (W.E.O.) 26 Warley (R.B.) 8 Wyre Forest (M.T.)

Goosander. Av. = November 14 (18) Av.= March 27 (18) Nov. 5 Blithfield (J.L.) May 2 Blithfield (J.L.) 10 Belvide (R.J.B., G.M.I.) March 17 Belvide (R.J.B.) 30 Cannock Res. (D.J.M.)

Smew. Av. = December 16 (14) Av. = February 28 (13) Dec. 22 Blithfield (T.W.F., J.L.) Feb. 17 Belvide (R.J.B.)

56 KEY TO CONTRIBUTORS

(The following members and non-members have forwarded material for the Report)

B. Y. Aldred (Miss) E. Hamilton (Miss) J. Rawlings (Miss) G. A. Arnold (E.H.) E. Reeves M. A. Arnold J. H. Harding A. J. Richards A. J. Harthan *R. Richards R. S. Bailey D. M. Hawker J. G. Roe L. R. Bayes T. W. Haynes fA. Ross F. Beavis H. S. Hemsley-Hall A. R. M. Blake A. Hewitt D. G. Boddington M. D. Higgins J. A. Sage |E. J. Bradford D. F. Hope G. L. Salt R. J. Bradney E. Hurling (Miss) H. K. Saxby R. Broadbent (E.Hu.) J. N. Sears S. C. Brown G. M. Ireson *A. E. Sheasby P. B. Buckley R. L. Smallwood *J. L. Burton J. M. Smith E. M. Butler (Mrs.) A. F. Jacobs L. Smith *D. E. Jebbett M. Palmer-Smith C. J. Cadbury B. W. Jones (Mrs.) B. Campbell (B.Ca.) G. H. Jones J. E. Campbell *P. R. Kemble *R. K. Smith M. M. Campbell *T. A. W. Kirk T. C. Smout P. J. Chadder J. S. Spalding R. A. Chidwick G. C. Lambourne *J. Stacey Camden Clarke H. Lapworth *A. N. Stephens K. Clifford M. J. M. Larkin *A. T. Sumner F. Colley G. V. R. Lee M. Swindells R. Cooper D. Lees G. Coward H. T. Lees B. Craddock (B.C.) G. E. Lewis D. H. Taylor A. W. Cundall J. Lord fW. T. Taylor N.B.W.C. (Nuneaton tJ. H. Lowe K. H. Thomas Bird Watcher's Club) *R. G. Thompson K. I. Darlow *D. Marriott W. N. A. Thompson B. A. Davis D. G. Measures M. Thursfield (Mrs.) fR. W. Dawson C. D. T. Minton T. M. Thursfield R. H. Douglas E. Morgan (Miss) P. Till P. J. Mountford *B. Tompkinson N. B. Edmonds D. J. Munns A. J. Tompsett A. T. Edwards fT. Trought G. H. Evans M. C. W. Evans F. J. Neal J. A. Nelder J. Nield *J. Wagstaff F. Fincher D. Warden T. W. Ford M. J. Warren W. E. Oddie E. J. Wenham G. H. Gibson C. C. Owen N. R. Went D. Glaze P. W. West L. R. Greening *S. J. Parker R. E. Williams E. M. Grove (Miss) M. E. Pumphrey *A. W. H. Wincott S. Grove (Miss) (Miss)

•Members of Nuneaton Bird Watcher's Club fMembers of Warwick Natural History Society

57 BIRD-RINGING RECOVERIES All recoveries appertaining to Staffordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcester- shire published in "British Birds" since 1954 are listed below. This brings up to date the recoveries listed in the Annual Reports numbers 20 and 21. (Pull.)—Pullus (nestling) ( J u v.)—J u venile. (F-G)—Full-grown. (Ad.)—Adult. *—Ringed Abroad. (Y)—Young. Where Ringed Recovered Cormorant. (Pull.) Fame Islands (North'd) Near Penkridge, Staffs., 15.8.53. 9.10.54. Heron. *(Pull.) Egersand (Rogaland), Walsall, Staffs., 9.11.51. Norway, 10.6.48. (Pull.) Deeping St. James, Lines., Bransford, Worcs., 3.11.55. 2.5.54. Near Birmingham, (Pull.) High Halstow, Kent, 5.6.55. Warwks., 5.2.56. Overbury, Worcs., ca. (Pull.) High Halstow, 5.6.55. 7.1.56. Tufted Duck. (Ad.) London, 28.1.52. Burton-on-Trent, Staffs., 21.12.53. Snipe. (Ad.) Near Rugeley, Staffs., 28.8.55 Benavente (Ribatejo), Portugal, 24.11.55. Curlew. (Pull.) Chartley, Staffs., 28.5.51. Triaize (Vendee), 21.12.54. Spotted (Ad.) Near Rugeley, Staffs., 15.8.55 St. Laurent-de-la-Salanque, Redshank. Perpignan (Pyrenees- Orientales) France, 4.9.55. Arctic Tern. •(Pull.) Hammersnas (Malmohus) Droitwich, Worcs., 5.8.51. Sweden, 7.6.51.

Wood-Pigeon. (Pull.) Wellesbourne, Warwks., Near Ashford, Kent, 12.7.55. 14.1.56.

Barn-Owl. (Y) Near Nuneaton, Warwks., Near Stafford, 7.10.53. 7.6.53.

Swift. (F-G) Rugby, Warwks., 1.7.43. Where ringed, released 25.5.53. Swallow. (Y) Nuneaton, Warwks., 31.7.52. Himley Hall, Dudley, Staffs., -.6.53. (Pull.) Chartley, Staffs., 18.6.53. Casteljalouse (Lotet- Garonne), France, 24.9.54. Rook. (Ad.) Spurn, Yorks., 5.11.53. Dordon, near Tamworth, Warwks., ca. 12.2.54.

58 Where Ringed Recovered Jay. (Pull.) Wytham, Berks., 2.6.55. Hockley Heath, Birming- ham, Warwks., 22.11.55. (Pull.) Wytham, 4.6.55. Barnt Green, Worcs., 10.2.56.

Mistle-Thrush. (Ad.) Harrogate, Yorks., 11.2.55. Hartley, Worcs., 5.12.55. (Ad.) Near Burton-on-Trent, Near Lancaster, Lanes., Staffs., 26.1.55. 13.6.55.

Fieldfare. *(Pull.) Undersaker (Jamtland), Studley, Warwks., 4.3.52. Sweden, 8.7.51.

Song-Thrush. (F-G) Salthouse, Norfolk, 15.11.53. Solihull, Warwks., 4.2.54. (Pull.) Wellesbourne, Warwks., The Lizard, Cornwall, 19.5.53. 6.2.54. (Pull.) Wellesbourne, 1.5.53. Yelland Marsh, near InstowT, Devon, ca. 10.5.54. (Pull.) Fradswell, near Stafford, Amares, near Braga, 30.4.55. (Minho), Portugal, 26.10.55. (Ad.) Old Colwyn, Denbighs., 110 miles S.-E. in Warwks. between 17.1.55 and March, 1955. 28.2.55. (Ad.) do. 86 miles S.-E. in Staffs., March, 1955.

Wheatear. (Juv.) Fair Isle, 13.7.55. Near Stone, Staffs., 3.9.55.

Whinchat. (Pull.) Sabden, Lanes., 18.6.53. Between Stafford and Wolverhampton, ca. 11.4.55.

Whitethroat. (Juv.) Nuneaton, Warwks., 19.6.55. Goeree Lightship, North Sea, 11.6.56, 51° 56' N„ 3° 40' E.

Willow- (Y) Delamere Forest, Cheshire, Bcarley, near Stratford-on- Warbler. 22.6.51. Avon, Warwks., 3.5.53. (F-G) Isle of May Bird Observatory, Near Longton, Staffs., 5.5.52. 9.8.53.

Greenfinch. (F-G) Frankley, Worcs., 30.1.52. Bramcote, Warwks., 2.6.53. (F-G) Wellesbourne, Warwks., Flitwick, Beds., 2.5.53. 3.2.53. (F-G) Seahouses, North'd, 15.2.53. Near Cheadle, Staffs,, male 7.5.55. (Pull.) Chartley, near Stafford, Near Saldana (Palancia) 28.5.55. Spain, 28.2.56.

M. A. ARNOLD.

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