West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 71 2004 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands 2004

Annual Report 71

Editor D.W. Emley

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

© West Midland Bird Club

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Price £9.00 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands 2004

Annual Report 71

Contents

4Editorial 6 Submission of Records 7 Birds and Weather in 2004 14 Systematic List 194 Ringing in 2004 201 Black-headed Bunting in Nuneaton – a first for the Region 202 Broad-billed Sandpiper at Drayton Bassett Pits – a first for Staffordshire 204 Dartford Warbler on Cannock Chase – first record for 100 years 206 Observations and Migration in the Apedale area 216 County Lists 223 Gazetteer 229 List of Contributors 233 Index to Species

Front Cover Photograph: Little Egret at Branston, Steve Valentine

3 Editorial

What to do about escapes, or suspected escapes! This has always been a problem for the County Recorders. A number of species that have only occurred in our Region as escapes have figured in the main species list at the back of the Annual Reports – usually in square brackets – mainly because they have occurred in the wild in Great Britain. The recent decision by BOURC to split Canada Goose has left us with the problem of where to place Lesser Canada Goose; after Canada Goose or in the Exotica section. The Report and Records Committee has sought to overcome this by setting up an Appendix 1 to the list which will contain those species known to have occurred in the wild in GB but only as escapes in our Region. This will include all those species previously listed in square brackets e.g. Snow Goose and those sedentary species not known to have established populations in the Region and which are unlikely to have wandered here naturally e.g. Golden Pheasant. Occasionally escapes of species that occur naturally in our Region turn up e.g. White Stork and in these cases they are indicated as such in the main account but are not included in the totals. It is important that we continue to document the occurrence of species on Appendix 1 for today’s escapes could be tomorrow’s wild birds and for this reason we still require some kind of supporting evidence when claiming any of them. The more observant of you will notice that Ruddy Shelduck has been put in Appendix 1 but not Egyptian Goose. BOURC is of the opinion that no wild Ruddy Shelduck are believed to have occurred in Great Britain since 1946 so we have followed their lead and placed it in Appendix 1. However, there is a strong possibility that Egyptian Geese could reach us from the naturalised populations in Norfolk so it remains on the main list.

Appendix 1 thus contains the following species:

Great White Pelican Red-breasted Goose Saker Greater Flamingo Ruddy Shelduck Golden Pheasant Lesser White-fronted Goose Marbled Duck Lady Amherst’s Pheasant Snow Goose Falcated Duck Red-headed Bunting Ross’s Goose White-headed Duck Lesser Canada Goose Hooded Merganser

One further change to the list is to rename the Exotica section Appendix 2 to fit in with the newly designated Appendix 1.

The regional list is reduced by two as the 1953 record of Tawny Pipit has been rejected by BBRC and Ruddy Shelduck is assigned to Appendix 1.

One of the advantages of computerising Staffordshire’s records has been the ability to produce up-to-date distribution maps. But, even better than this, has been making these available over the internet thanks to the efforts of Craig Slawson of Staffordshire Ecological Record. These can be found at http://www.staffs-ecology.org.uk/atlas/atlas.php

Finally it gives me great pleasure in expressing my, and the Club’s, thanks to Gilly Jones who has stepped down as County Recorder for Staffordshire. Such a job can, at times, be both rewarding and thankless but she carried out her role in a conscientious and meticulous manner and our knowledge of Staffordshire’s birds is all the better for that. We welcome Nick Pomiankowski as her replacement and wish him well for the future.

4 Acknowledgements I would like to thank all those who helped with this year’s report. I am especially grateful to all those who contributed records, especially those sending in valuable census data; to Andrew and Angela Goodwin, John Harris, Nick Pomiankowski and Steve Seal, for their articles; to Bert Coleman for another fascinating Ringing Report and to artists and photographers Steve Cole, Terry Davies, Tony Davison, Alan Dean, Pete Dedicoat, John Harris, Phil Jones, Dave Kelsall, Mark Priest, Steve Seal, Steve Turner, and Andy Warr for making their work available; and above all to the County Recorders and their teams:

Warwickshire: Jonathan Bowley Worcestershire: Andy Warr, Terry Hinett and Brian Stretch Staffordshire: Nick Pomiankowski, Neil Carter, Martin Godfrey and Andy Lawrence. West Midlands: Tim Hextell.

I would like to thank Mike Gaydon of Healeys and my wife Sue, for her support and help during the compilation of this report.

David Emley

5 Submission of Records

All contributors are asked to follow the guidelines set out in the booklet A Checklist of the Birds of the West Midlands and a Guide to Status and Record Submission (second edition 1989). A copy of these can be found on our website http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com. All records should be sent to the relevant County Recorder as soon as possible after observation. Concise, though adequate, field descriptions (including how the species was identified, the circumstances of the sighting and the observer’s experience of the species) should accompany records of all species – marked as A in the Details column of the checklist. In addition, descriptions are required for all out-of-season migrants, unusual hybrids and scarce sub-species, including Scandinavian Rock Pipit, Blue-headed and other flava race wagtails, White Wagtail (autumn only), Black-bellied Dipper, Greenland Wheatear and Chiffchaff races. The lack of an acceptable description may lead to records being rejected.

Records should be sent to the appropriate County recorder:

Warwickshire JJ Bowley 17 Meadow Way, Fenny Compton, Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2WD [email protected]

Worcestershire A Warr 14 Bromsgrove St, Worcester, WR3 8AR [email protected]

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

West Midlands K Clements 26 Hambrook Close, Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV6 0XA [email protected]

Ringing Secretary All ringing recoveries should be sent to: A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs, B78 3HZ.

Records can be sent electronically as Excel, Word, CSV or RTF files or on record slips. These are available from the Club Secretary (address inside back cover) at indoor meetings or a copy can be downloaded from our web site: http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com/. Another alternative that is proving very popular is the BTO’s BirdTrack website http://www.bto.org.uk/birdtrack/. Data entered here can be accessed, with permission, by the County Recorder, thus obviating the need to send in slips etc.

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

6 Birds and Weather 2004

2004 saw a total of 235 species recorded in the Region. Among these were two firsts – Bufflehead and Black-headed Bunting – making a grand Regional total of 341 species. It would have been 343 but the 1953 record of Tawny Pipit in Staffordshire has been removed following a review of records by BBRC and Ruddy Shelduck has been placed in the newly-formed Appendix 1. The wandering Bufflehead was added to the county totals for Staffordshire, Warwickshire and West Midlands, while Black-headed Bunting was added to that of Warwickshire. Other county additions included Broad-billed Sandpiper and Red-rumped Swallow in Staffordshire and Spotted Sandpiper and Little Bunting (in 2003) in the West Midlands.

January started rather cold and changeable with some heavy rain in the north of the Region. High pressure to the south gave cloudy but mild conditions with rain or drizzle on the 5th giving way to scattered showers on the 6th. There followed a very unsettled few days as vigorous depressions swept their associated fronts across the Region it being mostly mild or very mild at first. A deep depression then brought gales and lower temperatures with some thundery showers on the 11th and more rain or blustery showers followed on the 12th and 13th as another depression tracked close by. Yet another deep depression crossed northern England during the 15th and 16th bringing widespread gales and flooding in some areas. An arctic airstream brought heavy snowfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning, during the 28th and, after a sunny but cold start on the 29th, heavy rain and gales swept across the Region from the west.

The year started well with a herd of 19 Bewick’s Swans at Dosthill, five Whooper Swans at Whitemoor Haye and, following strong southerly gales on December 31st, the first Fulmar in the Region for ten years at Draycote. Meanwhile the Park Hall Long-eared Owl roost held seven birds. White gulls are not easy to find these days so an adult and a first-winter Iceland Gull was a welcome find at Belvide on the 2nd while a Caspian Gull was seen at Throckmorton on the 3rd. A male Bearded Tit found at Brandon on the 7th lingered until the 25th. A roost of Pied Wagtails in Newcastle town centre peaked at around 800 on the 10th while a group of three Bean Geese at Charlecote on the 14th was only the fifth post-1900 county record. A male Firecrest remained at Trimpley Reservoir from the 11th to 25th and three Common Redpoll were noted at Clayhanger on the 22nd. Skeins of 50 Pink-footed Geese flying over the Westlands in North Staffordshire and of 300 over Stubbers Green on the 14th heralded one of the largest movements in recent years. It peaked on the 26th with 2000 over Park Hall, 800 over Westport and 500 over Denstone; all heading west. A male Greater Scaup arrived at Chasewater on the 17th, lingering there until May 3rd while the regular small wintering flock of Smew in the Tame Valley peaked at nine on the 27th. A Wood Lark was seen on set-aside at Guys Cliff and Milverton and another male Firecrest at Madeley STW, also on the 27th while a Hawfinch appeared at Wolseley Bridge on the 28th remaining there until March 11th.

During the first week of February a vigorous low pressure brought very mild, wet and windy weather to the Region before a deep low’s north-westerly airstream brought wintry showers to northern parts. After overnight frost on the 9th and 10th very mild air returned. Continuing anticyclonic and generally dry from the 16th, it was mild with good sunny

7 periods but tempered by a chilly easterly wind. From the 22nd it became colder with northerly winds as high pressure moved westwards giving rise to overnight frost in many areas later.

Staffordshire’s first over-wintering Common Sandpipers (six) were found at Wolseley Bridge on the 7th while a small flock of 40 Crossbills was found on Cannock Chase on the 8th. However, the bird of the month was surely a stunning Yellow-browed Warbler at Chasewater on the 14th – the third record for Staffordshire in four years – a sign of the times. A Firecrest was found at Farnborough Park on the 18th while on the 22nd, six more wintering Common Sandpipers were found; this time at Aqualate. A Red-necked Grebe at Blithfield on the 28th was the only record for the year; it was joined by a Scandinavian Rock Pipit. On the 29th, a respectable flock of 106 Goosander was also counted there while a female Hen Harrier was seen at Park Hall CP.

High pressure at the start of March brought good sunny periods and widespread overnight frost. A changeable spell, as Atlantic fronts crossed the Region, brought occasional rain and showers before high pressure re-established itself bringing good sunny periods and some overnight frost. It became quite warm mid-month as a result of high pressure sitting over Europe. On the 19th/20th a deep low pressure to the north resulted in severe gales across the Region which even caused a severe, almost desert-like, dust storm on newly- ploughed land near Rugeley! Heavy squalls continued on the 21st but the month ended rather dry and warm.

A Cetti’s Warbler at Handsacre Flash on the 5th was the sixth Staffordshire record. Common Redpolls, despite their name were scarce this year and one visiting a garden in Nuneaton on the 6th was one of only two records for the Region this year. A Wood Lark was seen at Belvide on the 9th as the spring passage of waders got underway with a Knot there on the 11th and the first Little Ringed Plovers at Stubbers Green on the 13th while others at Brandon and Upton Warren on the 14th coincided with the arrival of the first Sand Martins at Marsh Lane NR and Blithfield. The first Barn Swallow and House Martin, however, arrived two weeks early at Brandon on the 18th and at Kingsbury on the 19th respectively. A Firecrest lingered at Alvecote from the 22nd to 28th. On the 23rd two White Storks were seen on flooded fields at Bedworth Nook, two Firecrests at Baggeridge CP and the first Ring Ouzel of the spring in Chat Valley. Whooper Swans passed through with a herd of 13 at Branston on the 24th, 19 at Tittesworth Reservoir on the 26th and a family party of seven near Stretton-on-Fosse on the 28th. The spring passage of Ospreys got underway with sightings at Kingsbury (26th), Smestow Valley (29th) and Malvern Hills (30th). Lingering Iceland and Glaucous Gulls were seen at Draycote on the 27th while three Scandinavian Rock Pipits were seen there on the 28th and five male Common Scoters on the 29th. Spotted Redshanks were seen at Fisher’s Mill, Drayton Bassett and Westwood on the 28th/29th.

April began rather wet as a low moved east and north and the 4th saw showers with hail and thunder in many places. After a few showers on the 8th, and a little light rain on the 9th and 10th, it was mainly dry with good sunny periods. After scattered light showers on the 22nd a period of very warm sunny weather arrived. The warm weather was not without its consequences as low pressure developing off southern England caused bands of thundery rain to affect many areas with numerous reports of local flooding and lightning strikes. The month ended with more heavy rain.

8 The first Garganey of the year arrived on cue at Brandon on the 1st but the first Common Cuckoo – in Wyre Forest on the 3rd – was a week early. The first Tree Pipit was found at Fenny Compton on the 4th but it was two weeks later before the main arrival took place. April 5th saw the discovery of Dartford Warbler on Cannock Chase after an absence in Staffordshire of 100 years! This was surely an indication of global warming if ever one was needed. A Sedge Warbler was found at Tittesworth Reservoir on the early date of the 9th, to be closely followed by one at Upton Warren on the 10th and Draycote on the 12th with the first Garden Warbler at Jackson’s Coppice on the 14th. We all like to see a Brambling in the garden; but 110! Yes, that was the peak count in a Westlands garden on the 12th. The first Marsh Harrier of the spring was seen at Brandon on the 12th and a Black Kite (fourth regional record) at Marsh Lane NR on the 16th. The 16th also saw the first Reed Warbler at Doxey and a widespread early arrival of Common Swifts while on the 17th there was a regional influx of Northern Wheatears. Larger counts included 38 at Sandwell Valley, 31 in Dunstall Park, 25 at Doxey and 11 at both Barton GP and Blithfield. A Black Redstart at Knotbury on the 20th was a most unusual sighting while the first Hobby was seen at Shustoke; they were being seen all over the Region by the month’s end. A Wood Lark was found at Priors Hardwick on the 21st with a Green-winged Teal at Bredons Hardwick and Blue-headed Wagtail at Blithfield on the 23rd. A respectable passage of Black-tailed Godwits resulted in 70 at Fisher’s Mill on the 22nd and 25 at Drayton Bassett on the 23rd. A region-wide arrival of Wood Warblers took place on the 24th and a flock of 26 Whimbrel was seen at Draycote. Four Little Terns called in at Draycote on the 25th and the first Turtle Dove arrived at Castlemorton Common on the 25th. Red-rumped Swallows are rare enough in the Region (one in the last 10 years) but to have three appear is exceptional. Birds were seen at Gailey from the 29th-30th, Blithfield on the 30th and at Earlswood from 30th to May 1st.

What was, on the whole, a rather warm and sunny month, May began with occasional heavy and thundery showers. After thundery outbreaks on the 11th had died away, there were long sunny periods and it became warmer from the 15th onwards. From the 19th the high pressure receded westwards allowing a cold front to move slowly down. It was warm and sunny at first, later becoming cooler with scattered thundery showers affecting some places. High pressure was again mostly dominant from the 22nd, and a dry sunny spell followed. Winds were light and temperatures not far from normal after local overnight air frost and most areas became very warm. The month ended warm but with thundery showers in some areas.

Spotted Flycatchers arrived across the Region on the 3rd and a Honey-buzzard flew over Moreton Morrell on the 7th. The usual spring passage of Dotterel was represented by two males and a female on Bredon Hill on the 9th. A second Green-winged Teal was found on the 13th (remaining until 24th), this time at Brandon, while a Pectoral Sandpiper at Doxey on the 14th was the only regional record. The same day saw an amazing flock of 130 Black-tailed Godwits at Belvide while overshooting Hoopoes were found at Warwick and Preston-on-Stour. Little Stints were found at Upton Warren and Barton GP on the 18th while there was a sprinkling of Sanderling throughout the Region from 23rd to 28th. A Savi’s Warbler turned up at Brandon on the 21st; the last being in 1995. A late Long- tailed Duck at Earlswood on the 24th was totally eclipsed by a superb, and rather mobile, Bufflehead at Branston – a regional first. Earlswood tried again; this time with a Golden Oriole on the 26th. Common Quail were late arriving and scarce too; the first was found

9 at Blythe Valley CP on the 28th and another at Black Bank on the 29th. As if the Bufflehead was not enough, the month ended with two further extreme rarities – a Squacco Heron at Blithfield on the 31st (last seen in the Region in 1874) and a Black- headed Bunting in a Nuneaton Garden – a regional first!

Overall, June was fairly settled and warm, turning colder and with wet and windy weather mid-way through. By the 7th high pressure had drifted into central Europe allowing warm air to spill in from the Continent, as well as allowing a few thunderstorms to develop. The hottest day occurred on the 8th with over 30°C reported in eastern England. The high pressure maintained its influence until the 16th keeping many places dry and warm but scattered showers did occur in places. On the 17th a cold front crossed the area bringing a change to much fresher weather with blustery west to north-westerly winds; this continuing until the 21st. The month ended very wet with some very heavy showers; especially in the north.

Another Hoopoe was found on the 1st, this time at Bishops Wood, while a pair of Twite on the North Staffs Moors on the 2nd may indicate possible breeding. Yet another rarity, this time a Broad-billed Sandpiper, was found at Drayton Bassett on the 7th – a second record for the Region. A female Long-tailed Duck meanwhile was a most unusual find at Blithfield on the 6th. Three more Honey-buzzards were seen; over Coventry on the 3rd, at Chasewater on the 10th and at Ufton Wood on the 15th. Draycote attracted seven male Common Scoters on the 16th while a pair of Quail was actually seen at Radford Semele! A Spotted Sandpiper in summer plumage found at Marsh Lane NR on the 19th was a first for the county and fifth for the Region. A Temminck’s Stint in summer plumage was found at Salford Priors GP on the 20th and a Siskin was seen feeding two juveniles at Doxey Marshes.

July began with a period of sunshine and showers before high pressure built from the west to give most places some long sunny periods. However, a deepening area of low pressure spread from France, giving unseasonably wet and windy weather. This was followed from the 19th by some warm sunny spells, but also a scattering of showers, some heavy and thundery. The month ended with high pressure building across all parts before weakening fronts drifted in to give cloudier and wetter conditions. The high drifted west to draw in warm Continental air before a weakening cold front spread in from the west to give some wet weather.

Cetti’s Warblers had a good season at Brandon with 26 birds being processed in just one part of the reserve. Meanwhile Upton Warren had 15 fledged young. The return wader passage got underway with a flock of 33 Black-tailed Godwits at Barton GP and 60 at Blithfield on the 4th. This coincided with a third-year Northern Gannet at Kinsham and another at Lower Quinton on the 5th together with a Temminck’s Stint at Upton Warren. A dark-phase Arctic Skua at Belvide on the 8th was followed by an unseasonal Red-breasted Merganser at Blithfield on the 10th while a Black-necked Grebe was seen at Blithfield on the 11th. Garganeys on return passage were seen at Branston GP on the 12th-17th and at Brandon on the 13th and 17th but with three at Blithfield on the 23rd and another at Marsh Lane NR on the 30th. The first Goosander returned to Blithfield on the 31st.

August which, according to Keele University weather station was the wettest since records began (207mm cf. 140mm average), started very warm or hot but this triggered some

10 torrential downpours with flash flooding in parts between the 8th and 10th; Keele recording 40mm on the 9th. The 14th was fine in most places but this was only a temporary respite as Atlantic fronts on the 15th heralded another unsettled period. Rain pushed north- east overnight into the 16th followed by some torrential thundery downpours culminating in the devastation in Boscastle (north Cornwall). From the 18th low pressure dominated with temperatures generally close to average but heavy rain fell overnight into the 20th. The 30th was rather cool in many places with fresh winds while a ridge of high pressure on the 31st brought a fine day to most places to end the month.

Continuing their success last year, four Avocet chicks fledged at Upton Warren on the 1st. A Spotted Crake seen at Gwen Finch on the 2nd remained until at least the 20th while a Rose-coloured Starling on the Tyburn/Kingsbury Road on the 3rd was a second county record. A first-summer Night Heron found at Sheepwash on the 5th – 6th was the third county record. Draycote held up to 20 Common Sandpipers on the 6th, while a passage of Wood Sandpipers between the 8th and 10th was noted at 10 sites. The passage of Common Scoters was represented by 16 at Belvide and nine at Draycote on the 9th with seven at Westport and five at Bartley on the 10th. Torrential rain on the 10th forced down an astonishing flock of 250 Common Redshank at Belvide and 28 Turnstones at Blithfield which also hosted a flock of 18 Whimbrel on the 13th. A Red-necked Phalarope was a nice addition to the autumn wader passage at Blithfield on the 23rd while seven Twite at Knotbury represent the second of only two regional records of this now scarce species. An autumn passage Wryneck was found at Claines on the 29th. A gathering of 18 Yellow-legged Gulls at Chasewater on the 31st was a county record.

Fine weather dominated the start of September and it was warm or very warm in parts. From the 6th, cloudy weather with patchy drizzle spread in heralding a period of more unsettled weather. Strong gales on western coasts around the 12th – 14th forced a number of seabirds to the Region and further rain on the 16th heralded a more unsettled period with bands of showers passing eastwards. It was also very windy from the 18th to 23rd though still quite warm. From the 25th it was rather cloudy with fronts bringing bands of rain and thundery showers.

One lucky observer flushed a late bevy of 11 Common Quail from set-aside at Priors Hardwick on 2nd. Further passage Wrynecks were founds at Grimley on the 1st and Russells Hall in Dudley on the 5th. Honey-buzzards were seen over Blithfield on the 4th and over Stoke-on-Trent on the 9th. Curlew Sandpipers were found at Upton Warren and Doxey on the 6th and Branston on the 7th. A Red-breasted Flycatcher was a superb find at Birchmoor on the 9th and coincided with a small influx on the east coast. It was only the second regional record. Autumn gales forced Manx Shearwaters inland and they were recorded at Draycote and Blithfield on the 12th while the year’s second Fulmar was found at Draycote on the 13th and another Manx Shearwater at Blithfield on the 19th. Belvide had a respectable five Curlew Sandpipers on the 20th while Red-breasted Merganser visited Grimley New Workings on the 25th. Another Manx Shearwater was found at Meriden on the 28th and an Arctic Skua at Chasewater on the 29th.

October started very unsettled with wet and often very windy weather affecting all areas. From the 7th, things settled down as high pressure brought sunshine but this didn’t last as low pressure then brought some torrential rain in places. From the 20th low pressure

11 remained in control with a number of frontal systems moving across the area bringing strong winds and rain. High pressure built across England and Wales on the 30th/31st to give a quieter end to the month, however light winds and clear skies overnight, caused dense fog patches to develop in places.

A large passage of Meadow Pipits took place on the 1st with three-figure counts at sites across the Region. A late Common Swift was seen at Doxey on the 3rd while a count of 385 Greylag Geese at Marsh Lane NR was a record for the West Midlands county. The last Little Ringed Plover was found at Doxey Marshes on the 4th while Little Stints featured at Draycote and Upton Warren on the 13th and Spotted Redshank at Doxey on the 13th along with three Bar-tailed Godwits. A Slavonian Grebe was found at Chasewater on the 15th while a Long-tailed Skua was an excellent find at Essington on the 19th. Hen Harriers were noted at Brandon on the 10th, Drayton Bassett Pits on the 16th, Cuckoo Bank on the 17th and Priors Hardwick on 26th. A very late Hobby was found at Wormleighton Reservoir on the 22nd. A Bearded Tit was found at Grimley on the 23rd while the only Grey Phalarope of the year was found there on the 25th. A very late Whinchat was found at Priors Hardwick on the 26th while a Wood Lark in the Blythe Valley CP on the 25th/26th was a good county find. The first Great Grey Shrike of the winter arrived on Cannock Chase on the 25th; remaining to the year’s end. Six Bearded Tits arrived at Brandon on the 26th and a first-winter female Ring-necked Duck at Abbots Salford on the 31st. A female Long-tailed Duck arrived at Bartley on the 31st and remained until November 10th while another Great Grey Shrike was found, this time at Brandon, also on the 31st.

High pressure brought a mild start to November. The high receded west, allowing a cold front to sweep south across all parts. Pressure then built once again, allowing some very sunny days and quite sharp overnight frosts. Westerly winds helped to establish milder conditions later in the period. A much colder Arctic airflow developed on the 18th and winds swung into the north. On the 18th heavy rain readily turned to snow in the north. Thereafter it remained cold, but sunny, with some wintry showers and overnight frost. As milder air spread in from the west on the 21st, freezing rain became a hazard over North Staffordshire. Towards the end of the month conditions generally became quieter. Weak weather fronts gave patchy rain and drizzle, but there was also some sunshine and overnight frost became a feature on the 30th.

To see a Northern Gannet inland is rare enough but three juveniles passed over Upton Warren on the 1st. A Dartford Warbler was found again on Cannock Chase on the 3rd and sightings continued to the year’s end. Also, that day saw the first arrivals (at Earlswood) of what was to prove to be a record invasion of Waxwings. The first of only two Great Northern Divers this year appeared at Upton Warren on the 4th. The national influx of Northern Bullfinches was represented in our Region by one at Belvide on the 6th while a sizeable flock of 30 Common Scoters seen there on the 8th equalled the site record. A Cetti’s Warbler again turned up there on the 9th and remained to the year’s end. A Caspian Gull was found at Belvide on the 13th and a Snow Bunting with a flock of Sky Larks at Fenny Compton. A flock of six Bar-tailed Godwits arrived at Bredons Hardwick on the 20th along with a Long-tailed Duck at Marsh Lane NR which remained until December 30th. A flock of five Velvet Scoter was seen at Chasewater on the 21st while an over-wintering Willow Warbler took up residence at Upton-on-Severn STW on the 27th,

12 remaining to the year’s end. The first of the winter’s “white” gulls arrived at Bartley on the 29th in the form of an adult Iceland Gull.

December started with temperatures close to the average and quite dry for the time of year. Temperatures rose from the 4th as winds turned more westerly but a weak front brought cloud and rain on the 7th. A south-easterly airflow developed on the 12th and temperatures dropped. However these were short-lived as a change to westerlies from the 14th brought milder conditions. Showers on the 18th retreated to give frosty conditions on the 20th. It was mostly dry on the 21st, turning briefly milder on the 22nd/23rd before becoming increasingly windy. On the 24th a cold front cleared the Region to give heavy showers which turned wintry on the 26th. Much milder weather closed the year with most places having some sunny spells.

Another Iceland Gull was found on the 1st; this time at Wildmoor Tip. This was followed by a Caspian Gull at Throckmorton on the 5th and a Red-breasted Merganser at Draycote on the 9th. On the 10th, two Slavonian Grebes were seen at Earlswood while a Dark-bellied Brent Goose at Draycote was the only regional record. The third Great Grey Shrike of the winter was found at Belvide on the 11th and was followed on the 12th by an adult Iceland Gull at Blithfield and a Bearded Tit at Aqualate. On the 15th a well-watched flock of 17 Tundra Bean Geese arrived at Whitemoor Haye having been seen the previous two days at Cold Harbour in Bedfordshire. They stayed until 29th then moved to Croxall on 30th and Catholme on 31st. Two Velvet Scoter arrived at Draycote on the 16th and remained to the year’s end. A flock of Waxwings on Cannock Chase since November 12th, peaked at 100 on the 19th. The second Great Northern Diver of the year was seen at Draycote on the 22nd while Iceland Gulls were seen at Belvide, Chasewater and Bartley. A Ferruginous Duck at Brookleys Lake on the 29th remained until the year’s end. There was an exceptional record of a wintering Ring Ouzel at Berrow Green on the 30th while three White Storks were seen in a ploughed field at Churchover. More large gatherings of Waxwings were seen at Brereton (230) and Newcastle (120) on the 31st.

References:

Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.com Keele University Weather Station Data Eden, P., Weather Log, Royal Meteorological Society.

David W. Emley

13 Systematic List The sequence of species and the scientific names follow those of The British List (British Ornithologists’ Union, 2003) with amendments (British Birds Vol. 99:1). The English names are those published in British Birds (Vol. 86:1), with amendments (Vol. 97:1). Records of distinctive subspecies are listed separately immediately after the commonly occurring race, their commonly used English names appearing in italics. All records of species within Categories A-C of ‘The British List’ appear in the main section, even if suspected of being of captive origin, though the latter are not included in the totals. All other species appear under Appendix 1 or Appendix 2 (Exotica); these mainly refer to escapes from avicultural collections. In the case of hybrids, the species listed first is that deemed by the observer to have contributed the dominant characteristics. Records of National rarities are only published if they have been accepted by the BBRC, with the only exceptions being well-documented records which are still being assessed due to late submissions.

The status comments are based on current knowledge and must therefore be highly subjective, although not beyond modification in future reports. The figures in brackets after these comments, in species recorded less than annually, are a measure of frequency and refer to the number of calendar years in which they have appeared during the previous ten years, i.e. not including the current year.

The waterfowl tables include the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) counts for selected species. As these are done on the same day, they give a snapshot of the total population at a given time.

A key to the contributors to these notes appears at the back of this Report.

The following status categories have been used:

Ve r y ra re fewer than ten records ever. Rare ten or more records, but less than annual (recorded in nine or less of the last ten years). Breeding less than annually. Scarce fewer than 20 birds occurring per annum or 10 pairs breeding. Uncommon 20-100 birds occurring or 10-50 pairs breeding. Frequent 100-500 birds occurring or 50-250 pairs breeding. Fairly common 500-5000 birds occurring or 250-2500 pairs breeding. Common 5000-20000 birds occurring or 2500-10000 pairs breeding. Very common 20000-50000 birds occurring or 10000-25000 pairs breeding. Abundant 50000+ birds occurring or 25000+ pairs breeding.

The following abbreviations have been used: CBC Common Bird Census NR Nature Reserve CES Constant Effort Site Res. Reservoir CP Country Park SF Sewage Farm GC Golf Course STW Sewage Treatment Works GPs Gravel Pit(s) UP Urban Park NP Nature Park WP Water Park

14 Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe 5 4 – 5 8 16 20 13 6 11 6 – Draycote 3 2 3 5 5 14 25 27 21 5 7 6 Kingsbury – – – – – – – 48 50 50 22 – Shustoke 25544––69602092 Bredonʼs Hardwick 2 7 25 6 4 2 5 18 7 3 13 57 Grimley New Workings – – – 8 2 3 8 5 5 6 6 4 Kinsham 16 – 2 2 7 2 4 – 9 21 – 9 Pirton Pool 7653999917252224 Upton Warren 444766221218119 Westwood 563222557796 Aqualate 1 3 – 9 2 – 18 15 3 1 8 1 Barton 6650321155331566247281410 Belvide 27 – 17 52 32 87 104 102 44 20 5 11 Blithfield 12 1 6 24 73 135 181 87 40 – – – Borrowpit Lake –274853– – –5561–52– Chasewater 62 58 58 56 39 60 78 83 60 57 59 51 Copmere – – – 2 2 12 22 3 3 2 4 2 Croxall GP 2 63 27 6 41 70 98 54 23 76 146 165 Doxey Marshes 9 9 911226 51918171110 Elford 10224131422513752522108143 Hill Ridware 15 13 17 16 29 23 30 32 34 62 50 4 Kettlebrook Lakes 11 9 6 6 6 – 6 6 13 15 12 13 Kings Bromley 12 3 9 9 2 11 2 10 4 12 8 3 National Mem. Arboretum 82 – – – – – – – – 6 49 125 River Tame –461827– – –1824–35– Dosthill Pits 14 8 4 – – – – – – – 8 58 Westport 14101416162118144 – – – Whitemoor Haye 150 152 268 5 4 – 13 52 96 138 3 1 Marsh Lane NR 14 10 11 4 6 9 6 8 6 11 15 61 Sandwell Valley 26 31 19 27 27 33 26 29 33 31 26 25 Sutton Park 21 29 31 34 – – – – – 29 32 33 WeBS 2003 734 591 606 344 293 536 543 522 425 435 600 568 WeBS 2004 536 531 599 392 338 519 630 610 515 585 638 611

Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote (two), Barford, Billesley, Brandon, Brownsover, Compton Verney (two), Cryfield, Draycote (two), Earlswood Lakes, Farn - borough Park, Fenny Compton, Guy’s Cliffe, Kenilworth, Kingsbury, Lighthorne Pools, Napton Res., Priors Marston (two), Shustoke (two), Stoneton Moat, and Temple Pool (Upton). There were no coordinated counts again from the Tame Valley and none at all from Coton, which has recently been the main centre (cf. 240 there in March 2003). Draycote had a very disappointing late summer build-up, while the only count from Stratford-upon-Avon was of over 110 by the town bridge on February 7th. Elsewhere, Brandon had a peak of 19 on February 19th, while up to 36 were by the River Avon near Long Lawford during November-December. During the same two months up to 74 were counted (and over 100 claimed) at Hall Pool in Packington Park. More modest parties of around 12-15 were also reported outside the breeding season from Alvecote, Alveston, Charlecote, Compton Verney, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Hodnell Pool and Salford Priors GP. Worcs Nesting pairs were reported from Bishampton Vale Pool, where seven young were raised, along the canal at Blackpole in Worcester, Grimley New Workings, Gwen

15 Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, where eight fledged, Lower Moor (three pairs), Ryall Pits and Strensham Lagoons. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate (two cygnets), Baswich (two broods of three), Belvide (three pairs), Brookleys Lake (six cygnets), Doxey Marshes (four pairs raised 12 cygnets), Kettlebrook Lakes (three broods of two, five and seven), Brancote on the River Sow (seven cygnets) and Westport where a pair hatched six young but by May 30th only four remained. Two very small cygnets then appeared on the canal on June 12th, possibly from pair further along the canal. The Westport pair ‘acquired’ one of these cygnets so by end of June they were back up to five cygnets. W Mid Breeding pairs were reported from Dunstall Park Lake, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs one of which was successful), Sandwell Valley (four pairs) and Stubbers Green. Further reports came from Smestow Valley. The 61 recorded at Marsh Lane NR in December was a site record.

Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus Frequent, though declining winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks A herd of 19 flew south-east over Dosthill Lake on January 1st, with probably the same group turning up next day at Rutland Water. The other three records all came from Draycote, where there were groups of five on March 6th, four on October 30th and three on December 19th. Worcs An adult visited Westwood Pool on December 19th. Staffs In January three birds were present at Whitemoor Haye from the 1st until the 25th but on the 10th a small influx increased this to eight including two juveniles. On the 3rd three flew over Drayton Bassett Pits and three were reported at Handsacre on the 6th, three were at the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas on the 18th and at Barton three were present on the 24th and 25th. In February three were at Alrewas on the 15th. In the late winter period two adults on October 11th at Belvide and two at Barton on December 28th.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce or uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also a recent feral visitor. Warks There was only one report this year. A family party of seven was seen flying north along the county boundary west of Stretton-on-Fosse on March 28th ADW. Worcs Two adults flew over Throckmorton Tip and were relocated at Lower Moor on January 22nd. Staffs Five at Whitemoor Haye on New Year’s Day were not always on view but stayed in the area until 29th many obs., then moving to Alrewas on February 15th and back again to Whitemoor Haye on March 6th and 13th. Three at Handsacre Flash on January 26th ESC were followed by two from February 22nd-March 15th MJI et al. There were two excellent flocks in March with 13 at Branston GP on 24th DS and 19 at Tittesworth on 26th WJB. In the second winter period two visited Silverdale Colliery briefly on October 31st NDP, three were at Aqualate on November 4th PJor, two at Blithfield on December 12th-13th MPR, ESC and two at Catholme, Croxall and Whitemoor Haye from November 20th until December 18th at least GJM, DJS et al.

Whooper Swan X Mute Swan Warks The adult from 2003 spent most of the year at Alvecote, finally disappearing in December.

16 W Mid Birds exhibiting characteristics of this pairing were noted at Marsh Lane NR on September 9th and 18th.

Bean Goose Anser fabalis Rare winter visitor (6/10).

Tundra Bean Geese, Whitemoor Haye, Mark Priest

Warks Three birds were feeding in a grass ley at Charlecote during January 14th-25th JJB et al. This was only the fifth post-1900 county record, the last coming from Draycote in January 1996. These birds created much debate regarding their racial origin as they were rather intermediate in appearance, but the general conclusion was that they most probably belonged to the Tundra race A. f. rossicus. Staffs A remarkable flock of 17 birds of the Tundra race A. f. rossicus arrived at Whitemoor Haye on December 15th DJA having been seen the previous two days at Cold Harbour in Bedfordshire, their number well exceeding the previous largest county flock of just three birds. They stayed until 29th then moved to Croxall on 30th and Catholme on 31st. One of the birds had a yellow neck collar 7U6 which was fitted in the Netherlands on a first-winter male in December 2002.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor to Staffs, but normally rare further south. Also a scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks The only record this year of a probable wild bird was of one feeding on the Avon meadows at Hampton Lucy on January 20th JJB. Although consorting with feral geese it was not seen before or after this date and occurred at a time when other wild geese were around. A feral bird was seen with Canada Geese at Draycote on July 16th and December 16th.

17 Worcs An adult was at Lower Moor on January 5th, 11th, 18th and 28th, then was joined by two others on 29th. The trio favoured fields along Salter’s Lane and were last observed on April 10th. One of the Lower Moor birds visited Gwen Finch Wetland on February 16th. The only other record came from Upton Warren, with an adult on March 3rd, 19th, May 6th and 10th. Staffs North Staffordshire saw one of the largest movements of these geese in recent years, travelling from Norfolk to the Ribble Estuary during mid to late January as bad weather hit the east coast. All reports relate to birds travelling in a west or north-westerly direction. Fifty flew over the Westlands on January 14th, then 130 were seen at Weaver Hills and 100 at Park Hall on 18th. By far the largest passage came on 26th with 2000 over Park Hall, 800 at Westport, 500 at Denstone and 152 at Apedale CP at midday, where a local farmer also reported “thousands of geese passing through early morning”. There were three at Doxey on January 31st. In February 21 birds roosted at Blithfield on 5th with 12 flying over west the next day, five were at Deadwaters (Rocester) on 13th, 52 birds flew over Swallow Moss on 16th and a presumed wild bird was at River Sow Meadows with Canada Geese on 21st with another or the same at Doxey on the same date. Tittesworth held singles on March 26th and 30th with four on April 3rd and 80 flew north over Ingestre on 2nd. A pair of feral birds visited Branston Gravel Pits on January 4th, Blithfield on 30th-31st and again from February 14th-March 1st. Singles of unknown origin were present at Keele University on February 12th, Westport (three) on the same date, Belvide from 13th-28th, Doxey on February 29th, March 3rd, 8th and 21st, Chillington on 21st and Belvide on 28th. Autumn was a quieter affair with 36 at Belvide on September 23rd, both the earliest arrivals and largest number to land. These were probably the same 37 birds flying north-west over Silverdale Colliery on 25th. In October, seven were briefly present at Blithfield on 10th, and at Tittesworth 200 flew south on 17th with a further 97 on 30th. Finally 150 flew south-east over Denstone on December 26th. W Mid Two skeins, totalling approximately 300 birds, flew south-east over Stubbers Green on January 14th PAJN.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks In January, two flew north-west over Dosthill Lake on 1st ARD and five were seen at Draycote on 15th RCM. The Dosthill couple were probably the birds seen just over an hour later at Belvide. At the end of the year, three (two adults and a juvenile) were feeding in the Ladywalk/Whitacre Heath area from December 29th-31st SMH, GJM, SS et al. These birds were earlier seen at Marsh Lane. Worcs Five were seen to fly over Upton Warren on January 8th and one of dubious origin was observed at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 5th. During the second winter period, an adult was at Grimley New Workings from October 30th-November 6th, 19 headed south over Throckmorton Tip on October 31st, two adult and a first-winter flew over Grimley Old Workings on November 21st, an adult was at Bredon’s Hardwick on December 18th, 19th, 29th-31st and an adult, probably the Bredon’s Hardwick bird, at Kinsham Lake on December 22nd. Staffs Two were seen at Belvide on January 1st SN, five at Alrewas GP GH and one at Fisherwick/Elford North Pit on September 19th DJA. A juvenile of the Greenland race A. a. flavirostris was seen at Doxey on January 25th MDB.

18 W Mid Two adults and a juvenile were at Marsh Lane NR from December 4th to 7th before disappearing until 16th when they remained until 22nd NPB, DJS. This constitutes the second reserve record.

Greylag Goose Anser anser Frequent feral resident, mainly to north Warks but increasing and spreading elsewhere. Monthly maxima at selected sites JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 92814637365566702154140135 Coombe 83 96 – 19 30 66 50 1 170 24 6 – Kingsbury – – – – – – – 195 230 220 200 – Bredonʼs Hardwick 8 – 18 6 – – – 28 – 60 9 24 Kinsham 1 3 4 4 2 8 25 86 17 Lower Moor 26241810931323529293228 Barton 111123112314 Belvide 65 38 – 8 18 2 76 94 89 – 71 84 Blithfield 9 27 – – 5 35 38 100 45 72 50 – Branston Water Park – – – 1 1 36 20 1 1 – – – Branston GP 120 50 – – – 8 11 100 – 260 160 70 Brookleys Lake 44 – – – 6 – 28 51 72 92 – – Chillington 20 2 25 14 23 49 24 8 – 57 – 26 Kings Bromley – – 1 3 2 14 9 15 – 23 33 1 Dunstall Park ––3446–––––– Marsh Lane NR 191 150 20 16 – 1 230 333 310 385 234 378 Sutton Park –––––––––2012 WeBS 2003 509 216 68 136 187 132 232 414 106 90 302 118 WeBS 2004 155 134 61 65 96 238 219 275 350 422 301 156

Warks Broods were noted at Brandon (eight), Charlecote (two) and Great Alne (three). There was no breeding information from either the Tame Valley or the Packington area, where future brood counts would be very useful. In the south of the county maxima included 17 in the Charlecote/Hampton Lucy area and nine at Wootton Wawen; with much smaller numbers at Abbots Salford, Chesterton, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP, Shuckburgh Park, Spernall, Stratford-upon-Avon and Studley. Worcs Two pairs bred at Lower Moor and between them fledged 10 young while a pair reared six at Kinsham Lake. Numbers continue to increase in the county, with Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake and Lower Moor being a favoured locality, see tabulated sites. Other sightings from around the county were of 15 at Grimley Old Workings on January 2nd, one at Westwood Pool on February 11th, four at Gwen Finch Wetland on 16th, two at Gwen Finch Wetland and Upton Warren on March 15th and one at Grimley New Workings on 16th. Clifton Pits held one on March 21st, Westwood Pool, four on 22nd , Bishampton Vale Pool, five on 24th, Westwood pool, two on 28th, Abberton, two on April 8th and 9th and Upton Warren, one also on 9th. Four visited Naunton Beauchamp on May 3rd, two were at Upton Warren on 16th, four at Bishampton Vale Pool on 23rd, one at Grimley New Workings on August 14th and 26 at Beckford Lakes on November 18th. Staffs Breeding records this year came from Brookleys Lake with a brood of four on May 21st, Coal Brook (Hales) where an unspecified number of goslings was seen on April 30th and Whitemoor Haye where a pair with five goslings were present on June 1st. Maximum numbers not in the tabulated table were 50 in September at Elford, 42 at Denstone Hall on March 10th, 40 at Quixhill on March 28th, 33 at Copmere in December, 30 at Dosthill in December and 30 at Westport in July. Reported in smaller numbers from a number of sites.

19 W Mid Up to six were at Dunstall Park during the breeding season. One was in with the Canada Goose flock at Stubbers Green on April 14th while three were in Smestow Valley on May 28th with four present on the 29th. Another was noted in Sandwell Valley, on and off, throughout the year. A total of 385 counted at Marsh Lane NR on October 3rd was a County record while the 20 counted in Sutton Park in October is also of note.

Greylag Goose X Canada Goose Warks Single birds were noted on the River Avon at Stratford on February 7th, and at Brandon on March 9th and 14th. Later in the year a bird was seen regularly with Canada Geese at Salford Priors GP from August 15th-October 31st, with two on October 3rd. Worcs Bredon’s Hardwick held one on January 6th, one was at Kinsham Lake on August 22nd, one at Upton Warren on October 14th, two at Kinsham Lake on 17th and one at Beckford Lakes on November 1st. Staffs Four juveniles were present at Blithfield from late August to the end of the year.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 115 – – – – – 100 120 500 35 6 160 Brandon 170 92 87 82 73 173 196 186 265 391 108 152 Coombe 148 109 – 89 81 239 130 55 38 184 104 – Draycote 160 42 30 11 10 122 185 320 201 16 9 289 Kingsbury – – 280 – – – – – 220 320 430 – Salford Priors GP – – – – – 8 195 475 600 470 35 1 Bittell 77 28 28 34 – – – 247 855 – 175 2 Bredonʼs Hardwick 245 128 38 67 – 78 57 108 116 35 183 580 Grimley New Workings – – – 30 75 42 57 521 255 556 395 – Gwen Finch – 26 27 15 5 – – – – – – – Kinsham 44816246 4 810958440328 Pirton Pool 27 73 85 79 115 111 122 155 4 97 48 126 Upton Warren 30 20 38 41 34 25 25 168 450 300 1 1 Westwood 28 6 15 18 15 70 30 100 380 222 150 210 Aqualate 76 2 40 29 43 27 – 45 58 209 102 137 Barton 144 75 86 87 137 234 255 732 80 85 67 190 Belvide – 174 – – 147 312 250 400 332 – 325 396 Blithfield 185 93 15 5 11 68 100 345 429 – 450 – Borrowpit Lake – 41 15 12 – – – 35 55 – 75 – Branston Water Park 12 10 23 39 30 202 118 35 51 27 20 4 Branston GP – 6 9 15 20 – 135 76 7 – – 2 Chasewater 119 79 17 21 45 51 54 39 147 113 156 189 Chillington – 8 21 10 16 13 14 29 23 304 – – Croxall GP 469 147 116 66 44 296 292 83 309 150 43 200 Doxey Marshes 881 755 182 88 117 230 283 688 879 893 600 664 Elford 2 36 110 55 48 67 59 – 302 2 – – Kings Bromley 322 289 240 211 136 379 721 484 538 576 189 207 Tittesworth – – – 2 – 392 268 44 171 153 110 174 Westport 121 128 118 64 120 237 201 138 120 – – – Whitemoor Haye 1 60 16 – 23 87 180 72 60 63 200 360 Marsh Lane NR 34 22 1 7 5 11 55 68 8 – – 5 Sandwell Valley 470 410 320 300 378 594 680 701 670 609 570 395 Sutton Park 100 224 128 110 – – – – – 319 224 176 WeBS 2003 2456 2409 2111 1436 1249 2260 3338 4658 2945 2650 2862 2546 WeBS 2004 3284 2710 1648 1224 1003 2764 2871 4096 4871 4002 2658 3545

20 Warks Breeding concentrations were very poorly reported and more information would be welcome. The best were of at least six broods reared at Brandon and seven in Warwick Park. Away from tabulated waters the largest casual counts were of 220 on the River Avon at Stratford on February 7th, 268 at Napton Res. on October 8th and 300 feeding on farmland at Ettington on 19th. Smaller counts of around 100-150 also came from: Alvecote, the Charlecote/Hampton Lucy area, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Hodnell, fields by the Oxford Canal south of Napton Hill, Priors Marston, Seeswood Pool, Walton Hall and Warwick Park. A bird resembling B. c. interior (Todd’s Canada Goose) was identified at Napton Res. on January 19th. Worcs No breeding data received, but high post breeding flocks suggest a very strong breeding population in the county. Away from the tabulated sites 169 were at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 21st and 248 at Lower Moor on November 21st. Staffs The few breeding records received were as follows; at Baswich a pair with 10 young were on the canal and River Sow flood meadows, Doxey Marshes had 11 pairs raising a total of 53 goslings, Tittesworth reported a total of 18 goslings, Weston Jones a pair with three goslings and at Westport 28 of 30 goslings were fledged. Notable counts not in the table were 700 at Coldmeece in September, 500 at The National Memorial Arboretum in December, 137 at Dosthill Pits in February and 100 at Rudyard Lake on March 5th. W Mid Breeding was noted at Dunstall Park Lake (six pairs cf. three in 2003), Sandwell Valley (at least 48 young fledged) and Stubbers Green. They were also present during the breeding season at Bartley Reservoir. Up to 170 were at Dunstall Park on March 3rd (peak count), 140 were counted at Stubbers Green on June 15th while 33 were counted at Box Tree Farm in October.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon feral visitor or escapee.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bredonʼs Hardwick 6 – – 10 9 1 1 16 16 1 – 2 Blithfield – – – – 1 – – 34 – 4 – 32 Doxey Marshes 1––––1111222 WeBS 2003 18 19 2 14 3 4 7 39 6 20 4 7 WeBS 2004 9 3 4 10 – 4 5 36 37 5 – 5

Warks Bred at a small private pool at Offchurch, where three adults and four goslings were seen in June. Up to two unmated birds were again present all year at Brandon, while a brood of three small goslings seen there on June 11th was thought to be the result of a mixed pairing with a Canada Goose. Otherwise there were the usual reports of one to three feral birds, covering all months, from: Alvecote, Birchmoor, Draycote, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Napton Res., by the Oxford Canal south of Napton Hill, and at Priors Marston. Worcs Recorded almost monthly at Bredon’s Hardwick, with the highest counts being during the post breeding period, see tabulated sites. Singles were at Chateau Impney on January 1st, Grimley New Workings on 2nd, 5th, March 7th and 21st, Westwood Pool on January 8th and February 6th and Pirton Pool on March 20th. Grimley New Workings held two on March 16th and during the second winter period, one was at Kinsham Lake on December 22nd. Staffs In the early winter period two were at Croxall from January 12th until the 27th

21 with two again in February from the 15th to the 29th. In March at Whitemoor Hay two were present on the 19th and 21st. In the summer months one at Chillington during June and July, one at Belvide on August 13th to the 25th and one at Branston on June 2nd. There were no records in the late winter period away from the two tabulated sites. W Mid In Sandwell Valley four were counted on June 30th with singles on July 9th and 11th while 23 were counted on Edgbaston Golf Course in September.

Barnacle X Canada Goose W Mid One was present in Sandwell Valley, on and off, throughout the year with three noted in July.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A single dark-bellied bird at Draycote on December 10th MD et al was the only record.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Rare feral visitor or escape (9/10). Warks Three were seen at Draycote on March 6th SS et al. A single bird at Alvecote on March 22nd-23rd AA, RLS, possibly then moved to the Tame Valley; where a bird was seen occasionally at either Ladywalk or the nearby Whitacre Heath NR from March 31st-May 11th, and again at Kingsbury from July 4th-October 29th many observers. Worcs All sightings came from the second half of the year and involved the same individual. It was at Bredon’s Hardwick on August 26th, September 9th, 14th, October 28th and November 14th and also visited Kinsham Lake on October 10th RAP et al. Staffs One was at Chasewater on November 1st-2nd, another flew into Branston Gravel Pits at dusk on 28th and one was at Blithfield on December 27th-29th MPR.

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Frequent passage migrant and summer visitor and winter visitor. Scarce or uncommon, but increasing breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 12 30 31 15 7 5 3 1 1 1 5 18 Brandon 1 5 4 3 2 3 – – – – – – Dosthill/Kingsbury 5 7 6 4 3 2 9 – – – 2 1 Draycote 2 3 2 11 – – – – – – – 4 Ladywalk 4 4 6 2 2 – – – – – 4 1 Bredonʼs Hardwick1012452–––––56 Gwen Finch 5 3 4 4 2 – 2 – – – 2 – Kinsham Lake 1 – 2 2 2 – – – – – – – Lower Moor – 1 – 4 2 – – – – – 4 – Upton Warren 2 3 3 5 3 – – 1 4 5 1 2 Westwood –312 ––––112 Aqualate 2 1 4 15 6 4 – – – – – – Barton 31021482313192 – – 4 6 Belvide 14461521111–4 Branston GP 11 23 21 12 7 43 26 11 – 6 10 13 Drayton Bassett Pits 3 8 18 16 10 9 4 – – – 1 – Marsh Lane NR 6 7 5 4 1 2 3 – – – 1 5 WeBS 2003 2450113885414123 2 3 2 4 WeBS 2004 3464741015425235 4 1 714

22 Warks Two pairs bred at Alvecote, although it was not reported how many young survived. A pair hatched 12 young at Kingsbury, of which seven survived. Other records from the Tame Valley included maxima at Coton of five in January and four in November. Outside this district a pair prospected again in Packington Park during March-April, and summering pairs were present at both Brandon and Seeswood Pool. In the south-west, a bird at Abbots Salford on March 28th, was followed by up to three regularly during May- June at nearby Salford Priors GP; which were prospecting in a new part of the county. The only other report was of two over Earlswood Lakes on May 3rd. Worcs A pair bred successfully at Lickmoor Wetland, where 12 young were observed on July 18th. Away from the tabulated localities, two were at Longdon Marsh on February 7th, two at Grimley New Workings on 17th, two at Strensham Lagoons on March 14th, 21st, May 3rd and one on 16th. Pairs were also noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on April 26th, Clifton Pits and Ryall Pits on May 13th. Staffs Breeding occurred at Branston Gravel Pits where four pairs were seen with 21 young during June and at Drayton Bassett Pits where a pair had eight young in May but, by July, only four survived. Again there were no reports of breeding at Aqualate this year though a male was seen near breeding holes on May 19th. Possibly bred at Blithfield where a juvenile was seen in July from the 16th to the month’s end. Maximum counts not in the tabulated list were 19 at Handsacre Flash in March, 17 at Hill Ridware in February with 16 remaining into March, 12 in February at Kings Bromley. Also reported in small numbers from the following un-tabulated sites, Blithfield, Branston Water Park, Croxall, Doxey Marshes, Chasewater, Tittesworth and Whitemoor Haye. W Mid Birds were noted sporadically throughout the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR, but there was no indication of breeding. However, three juveniles noted on July 27th appears to indicate breeding at one of the nearby gravel extraction sites. In Sandwell Valley one was present on February 17th, two on March 23rd, eight flew over on May 3rd with a final singleton on August 23rd. A pair was on the Tarmac Quarry west of Meriden in late April. Seven were at Bartley Reservoir on May 2nd with two noted on August 8th while six were counted at Stubbers Green on December 8th.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and visitor. Warks An excellent year began with a male on the River Avon at Barford on May 19th. A female regularly at Seeswood Pool from July 1st was joined by a male on 28th, but both had departed next day. A female was at Napton Res. on August 14th, with perhaps the same bird at Ufton Fields on 31st. In September there were single males at Draycote on 12th and Seeswood Pool on 19th, with a pair at Ladywalk on 30th. Finally, there was a female at Coombe Abbey on October 17th, a male at Brandon on November 4th and a female at Draycote on December 2nd. Worcs The only confirmed breeding record came from Ashton-under Hill. Birds were present along the Dowles Brook during March and April, but breeding was believed not to have taken place. During the first winter period Trimpley Reservoir attracted small numbers throughout January, with peck counts being 10, including four drakes on 1st and 3rd, four on 6th and five on 18th, 19th and 25th. A drake was at Throckmorton Lagoons on January 18th and two drakes and a duck were at Lower Moor on February 14th, 16th and 26th, then a single drake on 28th, March 4th, 18th and 27th. The highest group count during this period came from Kemerton Pool, with 13 observed on February 28th, Kyre

23 Pool held a female on March 21st, a drake visited Westwood Pool on April 27th, 29th, May 24th and 25th, a female on the River Severn at Worcester on April 21st, two at Grafton Reservoir on 25th and a drake at Upper Arley on 25th and 29th. A drake was at Kinsham Lake on May 5th, three drakes on a small pool at Ashton-under-Hill on 10th and a drake at Chateau Impney on June 1st and 3rd. A couple of birds returned to Lower Moor on July 11th and were seen on many occasions until September 29th, but with no evidence of breeding taken place as in 2003. During the autumn and second winter period, Westwood Pool produced a run of sightings starting with a drake on September 22nd, then three drakes on 22nd, a drake on November 23rd and 27th, a pair on 28th and December 2nd, a drake on 3rd, 5th and 6th and the pair returned on 18th, 22nd, 26th and 27th. Other sightings came from Upton Warren, with a drake on September 27th, a pair from October 5th-8th and three drakes on November 20th and fluctuating numbers were at Kyre Pool between October 24th and December 31st, the maximum count being 25 on October 24th. Two ducks and a drake were flushed from a ditch near Deerfold Wood on December 4th, a drake visited Throckmorton Lagoons on 19th and one flew over Stoke Bliss on 24th. Staffs Breeding reports came from Bearda Hill (adult with chicks) and a juvenile was seen at the Trentham Gardens on the September 3rd. In January a male was at Coldmeece Pools on the 3rd, a pair at Tittesworth on the 11th and three were at Dunstall on the 17th. In February five were seen at Whitmore on the 12th and 18th. March records came from Brookleys Lake with a pair on the 28th, one at Pool Hall Fisheries, Lower Penn on the 22nd, Westport had a single female on the 29th and Whitmore had two males and a female on Mandarin, Westport, Dave Kelsall the 19th and a pair on the 22nd. April saw a pair on the River Sow at Baswich on the 8th, two males at Belvide on the 17th and a single male on the 21st, Brookleys Lake had a pair on the 27th, a pair at Ellastone on the 20th, a single male at Stableford on the 10th and three at Whitmore on the 6th. May records of single males came from Belvide 26th to the 30th, Beresford Dale on the 16th, River Churnet, Crumpwood on the 9th and Whitmore on the 3rd, 21st and 24th. A pair was prospecting the woods at Keele University on the 26th May. In June Belvide had three males on the 3rd, a pair on the 8th and a single male on from the 10th to the 12th. In July one was at Pool Hall Fisheries, Lower Penn. August had a male at Branston Water Park and the final record of the year and highest count came from Trentham Park with eight males on the 17th October. W Mid A male arrived on Dunstall Park Lake with Mallards on May 27th – the first site record. A female was at Marsh Lane NR between August 23rd and 29th and a non- breeding-plumaged male was found in Tillyard Croft, Selly Oak on October 3rd. Curiously this bird was noted as being unable to fly and so presumably relates to a captive bird, but from where is unknown.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 38 – – – – – – 1 80 77 130 260 Alvecote 350 300 300 60 – – – – 9 130 180 230 Brandon 27 18 5 – – – – 1 46 110 19 11 Charlecote GP 160 158 77 107 1 1 – – 16 61 61 80 Dosthill/Kingsbury 146 230 105 6 3 – – – 15 58 106 160 Draycote 900 515 300 1 – – – – 19 25 90 600 Ladywalk 261 – 12 8 – – 1 5 61 209 170 154 Shustoke 179 183 210 7 – – – 5 1 18 51 75 Bittell Reservoir 33 – 2 – – – – – – – 18 5 Bredonʼs Hardwick 1250 521 500 6 – – – 2 39 50 400 1500 Chateau Impney 130 128 150 – – – – – – – 80 155 Gwen Finch 25 30 27 1 – – – – – 8 1 32 Kinsham 70 63 2 3 – – – – 49 9 8 140 Upton Warren 1 1 1 – – – – – 14 25 11 6 Westwood 5111784 – – – – 1381725 Aqualate 357 76 17 5 – – 1 – 24 8 3 225 Barton 643 722 314 – – – – – 2 63 267 434 Bateswood Lake 48 46 46 1 1 1 – – 4 4 29 59 Belvide 126 337 323 27 1 – – – 29 100 86 110 Blithfield 1328 868 309 3 – 3 1 1 40 – – – Chasewater 193 17 7 – – – – – 15 60 21 29 Croxall GP 512 685 495 1 1 – – – 7 24 129 236 Kings Bromley 36 39 78 – – – – – – 2 43 79 Dosthill Pits 154 15 12 – – – – – – – 43 125 Tittesworth –4053– – – – – 3834677 Whitemoor Haye 321 400 87 7 – – – – 38 225 200 211 Marsh Lane NR 181 185 186 12 – – – – 46 112 254 272 Sandwell Valley 107 66 29 10 – – – – 17 80 171 11 WeBS 2003 3845 2176 2924 88 3 2 1 7 356 645 1822 4768 WeBS 2004 5318 4417 1974 10 1 – – – 187 740 1359 2678

Warks The only counts from the Coton area this year were of 82 in March and 87 in November. Maxima from elsewhere in the county included 40 at Lower Radbourn on January 4th, 70 on the River Avon at Wasperton on February 26th and up to 25 at Hodnell in November-December. Records of up to 15 also came from: Brailes, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coombe Abbey, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Morton Bagot, Napton Res., Priors Marston, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, two were at Clifton Pit and six at Strensham Lagoons on January 25th, eight at Trimpley Reservoir on September 2nd, two at Throckmorton Lagoons on 12th and Clifton Pits held two on 12th, 39 on October 10th, 49 on 17th and 200+ on December 19th. Four were at Grimley New Workings on November 2nd, increased to 39 on 5th, 29 at Pirton Pool on 12th, 20 at Lower Moor on 16th, five at Bishampton Vale Pool on 24th and 39 at Pirton Pool on December 12th. Staffs Maximum counts not in the table were as follows; 250 at The National Memorial Arboretum in December with 200 in January and 150 in October, 240 at Barton Turn Marina in January, 200 at Ingestre in February, 190 at Fisherwick in January and 120 in February, 110 at Branston Gravel Pits in March, 67 at Okeover Mill in February and 60 at Elford in December. Reported in smaller numbers from Brookleys Lake and Doxey Marshes.

25 W Mid Regularly reported from the Clayhanger/Ryders Hayes Mere area throughout the winter period with a peak count of 151 on March 5th. One was at Olton Mere on November 23rd while the 272 noted at Marsh Lane NR in December was a site record and appears to be a County record too.

American Wigeon X Mallard Hybrid Worcs Upton Warren held a drake on October 31st.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 1829129 6 6 32839442821 Coton ––––––––––2732 Dosthill/Kingsbury – 68 56 – – – – – 94 40 76 46 Draycote 20 14 6 4 – 2 4 4 11 6 4 14 Ladywalk 162 – 24 – – – – – 59 69 29 17 Salford Priors GP – – – – 6 8 3 17 27 16 8 14 Shustoke 4463–––7419172 Bishampton Vale Pool14164––––––298 Grimley New Workings – – – 17 19 10 8 5 35 30 45 – Kinsham 3120112–––––1211 Upton Warren 4115621–33843 Westwood 36 33 38 27 1 2 – 1 5 8 23 44 Aqualate 22 18 4 6 3 – – 4 – – 1 2 Barton 45281384713323 Belvide 85 56 92 73 50 77 – 131 120 115 110 140 Blithfield 3 4 2 8 15 17 23 19 2 – – – Chillington 14 8 12 12 9 14 10 16 16 14 16 18 Croxall GP 1 9 2 6 5 2 – – 10 2 – – Dosthill Pits 8 20 6 – – – – – – – 14 20 Elford 1423112––––11145 Hill Ridware 7 8 4 2 2 – – 1 – 4 14 – Marsh Lane NR 56 55 39 10 4 2 2 15 41 52 52 43 Sutton Park 21––––––––42 WeBS 2003 249218987673986694215355275357 WeBS 2004 284 289 172 132 99 94 37 178 246 223 199 262

Warks Only two broods were reported (cf. seven in 2003): at Ladywalk and Salford Priors GP. In addition a pair may have attempted to breed at Alvecote, where there were 25 in March. On smaller waters further south there were peaks of eight at Napton Res. in January, and up to six at Abbots Salford and five at Earlswood Lakes in November. One or two were also seen at Charlecote GP, Coombe Abbey, DMC Kineton, Seeswood Pool and Temple Pool (Upton). Worcs As in 2003, three broods were recorded at Grimley New Workings and a pair bred successfully along the Croome River. During the first winter period, three were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on January 2nd, nine at Throckmorton Lagoons on 3rd, 10 at Pirton Pool on 7th, 20 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 10th, four at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 24th, three at Clifton Pits on 25th, two at Upper Bittell Reservoir on February 21st and two at Strensham Lagoons on 22nd, four on March 14th and two on 28th and April 4th. Lower Moor held 21 on February 29th, Pirton Pool four on March 20th and Bredon’s Hardwick a pair on March 21st. Second winter period sightings included Singles at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 11th and November 12th, 12 at Pirton Pool on 12th, 12 at Oakley

26 Pool on 13th, 12 at Pirton Pool on December 12th, 14 at Clifton Pits on 19th and two at Bredon’s Hardwick on 29th. Staffs Breeding only reported from Belvide where 10 broods totalling 75 young were raised; consistently high numbers were recorded here from the late summer to the year’s end. The only notable maximum count not in the tabulated list was of 11 at Branston Water Park in November. Reported in small numbers from Chasewater, Doxey Marshes, Gailey and Kings Bromley. W Mid One pair bred in Sandwell Valley fledging six young. Noted in the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR and on the Tarmac quarries to the west of Meriden. Noted on six occasions at Clayhanger Marsh during the year while 13 in Sandwell Valley in December was a site record. The 56 at Marsh Lane NR in January was a site and County record too.

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer, but a rare breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote – – 85 – 1 1 3 – – 80 170 80 Brandon 219 187 105 72 14 12 30 65 231 194 222 234 Dosthill/Kingsbury 35 30 20 – – – – – 24 26 60 40 Draycote 140 149 126 5 – – – 9 51 80 60 250 Knightcote (Itchen) 52 34 5 2 – – – 3 8 12 14 55 Ladywalk 150 – 24 – 3 – – 10 57 59 20 75 Salford Priors GP – – – – 6 4 5 47 85 150 165 315 Bittell 202 27 92 1 – – – 11 36 – 68 77 Bredonʼs Hardwick 400 47 – 1 – – – – 12 1 75 50 Kinsham 140 70 30 7 – – – 20 6 6 37 40 Gwen Finch 73 100 14 13 4 – – 8 27 75 100 100 Lower Moor 56 70 301 40 10 – – – – – 60 30 Strensham Lagoons 21 38 20 6 – – – 8 2 – 80 – Upton Warren 185 40 22 34 8 3 4 38 201 115 85 131 Westwood 119 154 133 3 – – 3 7 18 142 66 212 Aqualate 400 427 10 2 – – – – – 5 5 37 Barton 198 109 163 56 – 2 5 14 37 149 265 278 Baswich 241852– – – – – –1214– Belvide 747 520 314 112 10 5 9 74 200 266 431 600 Blithfield 150 250 51 11 – 2 4 28 236 – – – Branston GP 41 123 2 7 – – 3 22 100 34 43 9 Chasewater 3 4 3 4 – – – – 3 2 6 15 Chillington 29 6 26 1 – – – – 8 14 27 12 Croxall GP 221 154 30 11 – – – 5 36 132 268 213 Rocester 22 42 – 8 – – – – 6 6 8 – Doxey Marshes 235 310 113 23 4 3 5 100 236 222 140 172 Hill Ridware – 9 20 8 – – – 6 16 – 30 9 Kings Bromley 79 62 37 2 – – – 13 12 9 18 27 Tittesworth – 41 – – – 7 9 11 11 50 56 40 Goscote Valley 43 27 29 3 – – – – – 14 9 31 Marsh Lane NR 96 80 21 18 2 – 1 42 121 119 119 73 Sandwell Valley 83 74 54 14 2 3 8 19 40 54 49 28 WeBS 2003 3597 1404 717 299 9 16 53 550 822 2323 2091 3070 WeBS 2004 2996 2098 917 208 7 22 42 321 1094 1202 1561 1978

Warks Breeding was proven at Salford Priors GP, where two-three pairs were present in May-June and a female was seen with two half-grown ducklings on July 18th. From available count data it appears that this duck has declined considerably as a winter visitor in recent years in our section of the Tame Valley, but on the positive side a substantial flock

27 appears to be establishing itself in the south-west of the county, a district where it was once quite scarce. Counts from non-tabulated sites included 70 at Charlecote GP on January 14th and 45 in the nearby Charlecote Park on 20th, with 42 at Abbots Salford on 21st. Autumn maxima included 65 at Charlecote GP on October 27th, 20 at Lower Radbourn on November 4th, 31 at Coton on 29th and 27 at Farnborough Park on December 12th. Parties of 10-20 were also reported at: Admington, Brailes, Lighthorne Quarry, Morton Bagot, Shustoke, Watergall and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Small numbers remained in the county during early May at Abberton, Bredon’s Hardwick, Grimley New Workings, Gwen Finch Wetland, Lower Moor and Upton Warren. Very few records received away from the tabulated sites, but 10 were at Ryall Pits on August 15th, 14 at Clifton Pits on September 11th and 12 at Pirton Pool on October 17th. Staffs Successful breeding occurred at Tittesworth where a brood of four ducklings was first noted on June 20th, but by July 3rd this had been reduced to three. The only other attempt was at Doxey Marshes but this failed. Notable counts away from the tabulated list were 70 at Burston in February and 66 at Fisherwick in November. Reported in smaller numbers from other sites within the county. W Mid Regular at Clayhanger Marsh with a peak of 78 in January. Smaller numbers, less than 10, were also reported outside of the breeding season from Bartley Reservoir, Blythe Valley CP, Dunstall Park Lake, Olton Mere (in November and December) and Steelpark Way in Wednesfield

Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis Rare vagrant (5/10). Warks A male was present at Brandon from May 13th-24th CL et al. Throughout this period it was paired to a female teal which was possibly also Green-winged, but of course will have to remain unidentified. This was the sixth county record, the last also coming from Brandon in March 2001. Worcs A drake was discovered on the main pit at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 23rd and was still present the following day RP et al. This was the third county record.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 205 – – – – – – 250 300 300 130 155 Brandon 73 46 49 25 73 81 182 190 142 129 65 73 Coombe 154 129 – 91 117 205 242 310 210 146 203 – Draycote 212 285 76 77 74 159 215 465 330 149 155 180 Ladywalk – – 85 – – – – – 273 227 152 110 Salford Priors GP – – – – – 144 155 350 235 260 105 100 Shustoke 54 51 57 52 – – – 82 145 128 115 47 Bishampton Vale Pool 56 49 10 12 14 – 37 59 77 44 37 34 Bittell 121 54 27 37 – – – 129 109 – 151 82 Bredonʼs Hardwick 58 72 85 38 – 47 18 97 139 103 121 174 Grimley New Workings – – – 21 30 25 42 34 27 33 42 46 Gwen Finch 19 15 15 8 17 7 9 16 35 16 20 15 Kinsham 10 24 10 14 27 8 21 16 36 32 35 35 Pirton Pool 13 19 18 28 24 42 62 12 2 22 18 26 Upton Warren 225 74 38 46 130 115 211 458 400 168 124 45 Westwood 45 14 11 5 18 130 124 81 15 60 99 161

28 JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 38 52 13 44 129 16 – 22 10 10 27 101 Barton 315 332 337 181 214 270 168 205 233 292 362 276 Belvide 280 130 92 – 92 151 318 183 242 310 325 400 Blithfield 260 46 97 72 246 581 1148 926 1059 – – – Branston GP 21 24 12 14 6 – 40 104 21 16 23 48 Branston Water Park 60 37 22 14 27 28 64 64 56 43 43 48 Brookleys Lake 240 73 23 – – 71 122 500 360 270 330 240 Chasewater 222 162 177 120 88 252 218 193 220 157 172 204 Chillington 42 24 36 32 17 15 55 52 62 59 65 46 Copmere 40 40 6 4 15 190 171 50 22 39 45 120 Croxall GP 176 189 85 67 103 103 56 118 292 226 269 357 Doxey Marshes 271 150 84 49 64 77 127 175 204 300 196 281 Elford 39 66 68 31 67 48 33 48 161 66 66 112 Hill Ridware 204 138 116 162 118 176 53 355 327 102 434 209 Kettlebrook Lakes 127 131 130 116 110 – 152 144 137 144 105 167 Kings Bromley 374 160 171 98 66 107 44 262 340 282 366 411 Rocester 40 34 38 24 34 20 23 – 36 58 74 48 Westport 69903743756884129120– – – Marsh Lane NR 149 49 10 19 10 11 20 177 – 88 – 73 Sandwell Valley 118 106 96 89 86 89 80 93 103 112 173 140 Sutton Park 126 143 111 67 – – – – – 139 182 174 WeBS 2003 4191 2658 2037 1480 1736 3148 4576 5454 4010 4898 4786 4773 WeBS 2004 3893 2954 2108 1507 1958 2630 3439 4582 4816 3660 3756 3689

Warks A good breeding season was evident, with five or more broods reported from: Brandon (at least 15), Draycote (22), Earlswood Lakes (at least ten) and Salford Priors GP (at least six), all of which showed increases over 2003. Outside the breeding season the Tame Valley was again poorly counted, with few significant records coming from the Kingsbury area. Away from tabulated localities other maxima included: 100 on the River Avon at Bidford on January 21st, 120 at Earlswood Lakes on July 20th, 170 at Alvecote on 22nd, 222 at Lower Radbourn on September 19th, 100 at Napton Res. on October 8th, 100 at Farnborough Park on 22nd, 140 at Dingle Pool, Admington on November 10th and 300 at Hodnell Pool on 24th. Worcs An estimated seven pairs bred along the Dowles Brook, 14 broods were recorded at Grimley New Workings, three pairs bred at Bishampton Vale Pool, three broods were reared at Broadway Gravel Pit, six pairs bred at Tibberton and reported to have bred at Bittell Reservoir, Bredon‘s Hardwick, Ryall Pits, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Counts away from the tabulated sites were of 26 at Tibberton on January 18th, 20 at Strensham Lagoons on February 22nd and 45 on September 19th, 44 at Oakley Pool on October 10th and 25 at Strensham Lagoons on November 7th. Staffs Breeding was reported from Brookleys Lake (two broods), Coal Brook (Hales), Crumpwood (six ducklings), Doxey Marshes (32 pairs bred), Kettlebrook Lakes (five broods), Lichfield (three broods), Tittesworth (three broods one a late brood seen on August 26th), Weston Jones, Westport (11 pairs hatched 38 ducklings). Maximum counts not in the tabulated list were of 200 at Tittesworth in September and 150 in August, 180 at Coldmeece Pools in January and 121 in February, 91 at Dosthill Pits in January and 74 in February, 80 at Rudyard in October and 60 in June, 60 at Fisherwick in March and 58 at Gailey in June. Widely reported from across the county. W Mid Broods were reported from along the canal in Aston (Birmingham), Dunstall Park Lake, Marsh Lane NR (at least seven), Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (24 broods totalling 97 ducklings along the Staffordshire & Worcestershire canal on July 20th). Up to 42 were counted off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield in August while 78 were in Blythe

29 Valley CP in September and 63 at Olton Mere in October. Further reports came from Bartley Reservoir, Blythe Valley CP and Mons Hill.

Northern Pintail Anas acuta Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant, rare in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote –13––––––1–– Brandon ––11––––23–2 Draycote 4–––––––342 - Ladywalk 2–3–––––––11 Bredonʼs Hardwick 62 21 – 2 – – – 4 21 12 57 Aqualate 17 18 – – – – – – – 5 2 1 Belvide Res. 2 6 5 – – – – 3 3 28 1 Blithfield 30 25 10 – – – – 3 30 19 16 14

Warks A poor year, with no more than four together recorded at any of the regular sites. Other reports included a party of four (two males) at Compton Verney on January 4th, a female at Farnborough Park on February 18th (the first ever there), two at Salford Priors GP on September 19th, a male at Seeswood Pool on October 12th, and single females at Napton Res. on 21st and Charlecote GP on 27th. Finally, a bird at Kingsbury on December 14th was the only Tame Valley report away from Ladywalk. Worcs Bredon’s Hardwick attracted notable flocks during both winter periods, particularly in January and December (see table) and was by far the best locality in the county to observe this species. Other sighting during the first winter period were of three at Lower Moor on January 24th and two on February 7th, three at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 12th, 13 at Pirton Pool on 22, four at Grimley New Workings and one at Westwood Pool on 23rd and one at Lower Moor from March 15th-17th. During the second winter period, Upton Warren held singles on many dates between September 10th and December 20th, two visited Grimley New Workings on September 10th, with one remaining on 11th and 12, then three on 21st, two on 23rd and one on 24th. Singles were at Westwood Pool on September 24th, October 9th, 29th, 30 and December 16th and at Upper Bittell Reservoir and Pirton Pool on November 12th. Four were seen at Lower Moor on November 21st, followed by six on 25th and one on December 26th, four at Pirton Pool on December 12th, four at Westwood Pool on 26th, four at Clifton Pits on 27th and three at Kinsham Lake on 29th. Staffs Reported in slightly higher numbers than in 2003 but this doing little to redress the drop noted in 2002. With the 1999-2003 average maximum at Blithfield now standing at 57, the first winter period maximum of 30 birds (on January 12th) underlines the recently reduced numbers. The last bird of the winter was reported from Blithfield on March 29th and no reports were received again until two birds were seen at Coldmeece Pools on August 16th, followed by three at Blithfield on the 27th these building to the site maxima of 30 birds on September 22nd. The 28 birds noted at Belvide on November 7th was considered to be a good count for this site. The species was also reported from a further 11 untabulated sites including floodwaters in the valleys around Stafford. W Mid A male at Marsh Lane NR on January 7th remained until 18th with a female/ juvenile noted there from September 8th to 12th followed by a female on November 21st and 22nd. Drakes were noted in Sandwell Valley on March 5th, between May 28th and June 4th while a drake and three ducks were present on September 10th. A female was at Clayhanger Marsh on December 27th.

30 Pintail X Mallard Hybrid Staffs The male from 2003 was present at Blithfield on March 21st and April 25th (WJL).

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, but rarely breeding. Very rare in winter. Average dates: April 1st (61) to October 1st (60). The first birds (three) arrived on cue on April 1st at Brandon with the last being two at Grimley New Workings on October 8th and one at Blithfield on the 10th. Warks There was a similar showing to last year, with eight birds in spring and five in autumn. The first report was of a male and two females at Brandon on April 1st, followed by a male at Ladywalk on 3rd-4th. A female was seen at Draycote on April 25th, a male visited both Fisher’s Mill GP and Kingsbury on 30th, a male was at Brandon on May 18th and a female at Alvecote on 30th. On return passage there was a single bird at Brandon on July 13th and 17th, two at Ladywalk on September 1st, one at Salford Priors GP on 12th, and an undated report of one at Alvecote in the same month. Worcs Four drakes were observed during the spring; these being at Upton Warren on April 13th and from May 1st-8th, at Lower Moor on 11th and a late individual at Grimley New Workings on June 8th and 10th. Autumn birds were reported from Upton Warren, with two on August 9th, one still present the following day and remaining on site until 19th. An eclipse drake arrived at Grimley New Workings on August 19th and was joined by an immature bird on September 8th and both were last observed on October 8th. Another eclipse drake was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 10th, 16th, 18th. Staffs Attempted, but unsuc - cessful, breeding was reported from one site with a pair present between April 18th and July. Single males were at Belvide on April 11th, 22nd, May 1st to 5th, the 19th and 31st to June 6th, and at Drayton Bassett Pits which held two males on May 2nd. A single male was at Blithfield between May 23rd to 29th when two birds were also at Barton GP, this being followed by a single female at this site on June 8th and another at Whitemoor Haye on Garganey, Doxey, Pete Dedicoat the 9th. In the second passage period a male was reported from Branston GP on July 12th-17th and probably at least five individuals were present at Blithfield during the autumn period from July 18th until October 10th: singles were reported regularly throughout this period and three were present on July 24th and two individuals on August 15th. Away from Blithfield other reports came from Westport Lake, with two on August 2nd, one on the 9th, and two on September 7th; from Coldmeece Pools with a single there on August 16th, and from Belvide which held one bird on August 2nd and 13th. This was then joined by another eclipse male until September 9th when these were in turn joined by a third bird which left on the 14th, the final bird of this group departing on the 27th.

31 W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, drakes were present on April 8th and May 26th with an eclipse male present from July 30th until at least August 25th. Two were on Milking Bank Pool in Dudley from August 25th until at least 27th.

Shoveler Anas clypeata Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare and decreasing breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 4 – – – – – – 6 17 21 15 12 Brandon 102 75 96 35 4 5 11 32 28 78 40 69 Coombe 42–––––2715912330– Dosthill/Kingsbury 75 136 105 – – – – 4 28 28 46 150 Draycote 2421–––86–8– Ladywalk 30 – 109 – – – – 15 60 34 6 35 Shustoke ––44––––3142403 Bredonʼs Hardwick20–1322–––––98 Grimley New Workings – – – – – – – 2 45 16 14 4 Gwen Finch 4 – 8 2 – – – 3 35 14 30 48 Kinsham 19 8 10 – – – – – 35 4 2 2 Pirton Pool ––2––––1–665 Upton Warren 83338252 – 2 835605817 Westwood 106 73 82 5 – – 2 5 8 41 22 64 Aqualate 9 5 74 3 3 3 1 20 21 40 11 6 Barton GP 27 12 5 1 2 2 – 12 18 14 – 7 Belvide Reservoir 55 6 31 36 4 5 5 109 208 143 67 78 Blithfield Reservoir 2 – 1 1 2 2 4 60 129 4 4 – Branston GP –––––––––2038 Chasewater ––32––––2––1 Chillington 2 – – – – – – – 4 18 7 – Copmere –4––––––1–813 Croxall GP –2–292–49932 Doxey Marshes 18 20 6 3 2 – 2 10 51 22 26 17 Hill Ridware 1 3 – – – – – – 13 7 1 2 Marsh Lane NR 47 27 20 17 2 4 – 8 41 38 23 20 Sandwell Valley 84 36 40 4 – 1 1 12 50 56 48 4 WeBS 2003 326 200 223 67 5 7 4 188 303 426 360 327 WeBS 2004 351 330 341 12 12 11 10 204 673 390 215 175

Warks Away from tabulated waters, small numbers (of ten or less) were also reported from Alvecote, Coton and Seeswood Pool in the north, and at Farnborough Park, Napton Res. and Salford Priors GP in the south. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised 15 at Throckmorton Lagoons on January 4th, four at Clifton Pits and two at Strensham Lagoons on 25th, 29 at Oldington Beet Factory on February 15th, 19 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 18th, then four on March 6th and three at Hewell Lake on 17th. During the second winter period, Clifton Pits held four on October 17th, 11 were at Hewell Lake on November 10th, seven at Bittell Reservoirs on 12th, two at Oakley Pool on 13th, eight at Bittell Reservoirs on December 13th and six at Clifton Pits on 19th. Staffs Breeding reports came only from Doxey Marshes where one pair was known to have failed. Summer reports came from Croxall, where six females and three males were present on May 9th, and from Aqualate which held three birds on June 13th. For the wintering and passage population, some quite high numbers were reported, particularly in the early part of the year, from the Trent/Tame valleys, with 47 at Whitemoor Haye on January 3rd and 50 on the 18th when the same number was also noted close nearby at the

32 National Memorial Arboretum. Barton GP held 27 birds on January 24th. Autumn numbers at the large reservoirs have shown a particularly interesting change with a marked reduction in birds visiting Blithfield but an increase at Belvide. Blithfield’s early autumn maximum count of 129 birds, on the WeBS count in September, was half the 1999-2003 late-summer average high (of 255) for the site. Belvide’s numbers have remained relatively stable over the previous past five years but jumped in 2004 to 208, well above this site’s 1999-2003 average maxima of 116. A further nine untabulated sites also reported the species. W Mid Occasionally recorded from Clayhanger Marsh with a peak count of seven on April 2nd. One was on Dunstall Park Lake on September 26th and one at Bartley Reservoir on October 4th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. Warks A rather tame male was on Hall Pool, Packington Park from January 2nd-March 4th NPB et al, with either that or another male at Ladywalk during May 3rd-15th many observers. Finally, Draycote produced sightings of single females on September 18th SS and October 15th MD. Worcs A female visited Upton Warren on August 26th GG et al and Westwood Pool on November 21st WD et al. Staffs Present at Brookleys Lake where there were four on January 27th, two February 1st, one October 24th, a pair on October 31st NU, three on November 23rd ESC and a pair on December 8th NU. A drake was seen at Drayton Bassett Pits on April 20th, and a drake at Blithfield on May 15th-16th ESC, MPR with another on July 8th. A drake visited Barton Gravel Pits on July 4th. Two immatures visited Belvide on August 4th KMC, GAC with presumably the same pair on 12th FCG and also on September 6th. One was at Knypersley Reservoir on September 21st KL, two juveniles at Chasewater on 26th PJe and an eclipse male from October 17th-20th GE. A drake stayed at Branston Water Park from October 16th-18th. W Mid Four females/immatures were in Sandwell Valley briefly on August 11th and again briefly on 12th DAS et al.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 8 – – – – – – 2 5 125 130 140 Brandon 29 21 14 3 1 2 1 5 6 23 61 26 Coombe 75 39 – – – – – – – 26 25 – Dosthill/Kingsbury 126 190 20 – 1 – – – 2 19 20 52 Draycote 1299–––––233578 Hodnell 17 – 4 – – – – – – – 50 37 Shustoke 38 23 26 2 – – – 4 7 210 281 200 Bishampton Vale Pool 92 96 19 3 – – – – 1 21 50 40 Bittell 25214–––––––155 Bredonʼs Hardwick 41 100 14 – – – – – 1 1 35 23 Kinsham 35 11 18 4 4 1 8 2 – – – 9 Upton Warren 34 20 8 6 – – 2 6 2 10 20 20 Westwood 102 79 62 2 1 1 6 6 14 94 55 106 Aqualate 35 12 1 – – – – 2 2 1 5 – Barton GP 89 56 3 – – – 1 7 17 119 64 66

33 JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide Res. 68 22 48 1 1 6 15 28 5 87 67 76 Blithfield 120 28 3 – 2 7 11 8 7 13 – – Branston GP 1511––1–12–––10 Branston WP 153 25 – – – – 2 2 23 120 50 66 Brookleys Lake 2081––––––168– Chasewater 112 23 8 2 – – – 1 4 21 25 60 Coldmeece Pools 72 7 2 – – – – – – – – – Copmere 146 – 3 – – – – – – 5 11 20 Croxall GP 206 33 1 – – – – 3 3 25 66 54 Doxey Marshes 81441–1–––735 Hill Ridware 4 42 3 – – – 1 2 2 10 25 6 Tittesworth 11 5 11 3 – – 4 – – 7 10 8 Westport Lake 2742501––––1––– Marsh Lane NR 46 55 28 6 2 – 3 1 5 29 30 17 Sandwell Valley 55 16 14 1 – – – 14 16 31 36 27 Sheepwash UP 81 52 60 6 – – – – – 15 25 – Sutton Park 12 12 10 – – – – – – 4 6 10 WeBS 2003 1118 577 71 10 5 18 33 90 72 188 658 852 WeBS 2004 1017 645 133 5 8 6 27 39 82 383 438 412 Warks June records of a pair at Ladywalk and a male in Packington Park were the only other breeding season records noted. Numbers were again poorly monitored in the Tame Valley, with the only count from the stronghold of Coton/Lea Marston being a low 161 on November 29th. Away from the main waters the only site maxima to reach double figures were: 63 at the Great Pool in Packington Park on January 8th, 38 at Napton Res. on 19th, 14 at Bermuda on February 2nd, 12 at Ladywalk on October 18th, up to 12 at Salford Priors GP regularly from late October onwards, and 16 at Seeswood Pool on December 27th. Smaller numbers were reported from: Alvecote, Charlecote GP, Compton Verney, Lower Radbourn, Wilmcote and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Two pairs bred at Kinsham Lake, with broods of seven and one being reared. Away from the tabulated sites, Lower Moor held counts of 52 on January 30th, 54 on February 29th and 17 on March 27th and 11 were at Pirton Pool on March 20th. Clifton Pits held 49 on October 17th, 52 on November 21st and 80 on December 19th and small numbers were recorded at Grimley New Workings between October and December, with a maximum count of 12 being made. Staffs No reports of breeding birds were received for 2004 although up to seven summer birds were noted at Blithfield in early June, and singles were at Belvide on June 14th and at Doxey Marshes on the following day. During the first winter period birds were reported in January from a number of sites spread around the county and the indications are that slightly higher numbers wintered in 2003/4 than in the same period a year previously. The highest numbers were reported from Branston GP on the WeBS count date of January 25th and the other counts on this date indicated that a total of at least 950 birds were present in the county on this time. A further 11 untabulated sites also reported birds, including Hill Ridware which held 42 birds on February 20th and Westport Lake, a regular site for this species, where up to 50 birds were present during March. A further eight untabulated sites also held up to 11 birds during the year. W Mid Away from the tabulated sites smaller numbers, fewer than 10, were reported during the autumn/winter period from Olton Mere, Stubbers Green and Witton Lakes.

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris Rare vagrant (5/10). Warks A first-winter female spent the morning at Abbots Salford on October 31st JJB.

34 It could not be found here in the afternoon having apparently departed with part of the Pochard flock. The 11th county record, the previous two also coming from this site.

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Scarce winter visitor, some probably being escapees or of feral origin. Worcs The escaped drake from 2003 remained in the county throughout the year and spent the majority of its time on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal at Tallow Hill, Worcester. This bird was also observed at Grimley New Workings on August 16th, Oakley Pool on November 21st, 22nd and December 10th and Westwood Pool on November 22nd, 23rd and December 2nd. Staffs A drake at Brookleys Lake on December 29th GP stayed until the year end. The last county record was in 1998; at Chasewater.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 486171372625171315303843 Coombe 54 28 – 9 5 4 9 3 24 24 22 – Draycote 350 186 108 91 43 67 121 122 568 1200 1307 1350 Hodnell 80 – 12 – 16 – – – – – 75 75 Ladywalk – – 37 – – – – – 127 200 43 30 Napton Res. 133 57 53 18 – – 8 15 15 31 24 51 Salford Priors GP – – – – – 17 19 60 36 19 17 18 Shustoke 182 175 78 50 – – – 48 192 234 209 200 Bishampton Vale Pool 80 34 26 26 14 – 25 43 103 67 40 40 Bittell 33 47 44 17 – – – 105 74 – 69 29 Bredonʼs Hardwick 13221617– – 2 5 5 –2238 Grimley New Workings– – –443532382014123246 Kinsham 2710214537226 610453393 Pirton Pool –41222634385957321 – 7 Upton Warren 14 21 52 44 22 21 20 50 15 25 21 10 Westwood 635883202015375458817589 Aqualate 96 56 113 68 55 20 – 76 136 227 123 161 Barton GP 190 171 103 192 140 101 226 397 359 258 160 139 Belvide Res. 95 147 143 136 40 40 35 208 278 242 – 72 Blithfield 74 40 155 248 106 171 589 235 209 – – – Branston GP 15 60 29 28 40 – 45 39 7 20 28 40 Branston WP 71 39 12 16 4 – 18 28 98 80 83 75 Brookleys Lake 8374532– 74673506532– Chasewater 403 142 80 43 23 30 170 418 770 535 313 401 Chillington 26 48 34 2 – 11 17 42 32 58 62 41 Coldmeece Pools 81 61 34 – – 15 – 5 36 69 40 42 Copmere 48 32 56 96 6 40 15 46 109 150 45 102 Croxall GP 61 63 72 61 24 27 110 130 145 101 94 125 Dosthill Pits 95 80 38 – – – – – – – 46 51 Doxey Marshes 18 12 9 17 23 10 12 9 7 5 7 9 Fisherwick 52415278 2 3 –10382011 Gailey – – – 54 34 27 67 74 – – 32 32 Hill Ridware 23 23 25 33 12 10 77 43 68 119 47 12 Kings Bromley 182 69 36 12 2 6 – – 6 26 69 109 Rocester 17 3 16 – 6 8 2 – – – 17 12 Tittesworth 33 29 11 10 10 5 4 9 11 44 40 67 Westport Lake 40 71 69 52 28 15 25 81 38 – – – Whitemoor Haye 9 14 19 7 11 16 8 38 8 9 35 1

35 JFMAMJJASOND Marsh Lane NR 32 61 48 36 30 39 13 14 – 19 20 16 Sandwell Valley 109 91 77 61 39 57 91 94 69 63 71 75 Sutton Park 95 94 76 16 – – – – – 64 60 60 WeBS 2003 2596 1864 1570 1064 671 677 1002 1899 1915 2140 2697 2507 WeBS 2004 1845 1637 1448 1233 669 670 1492 1696 1874 1777 1385 1491

Warks Broods were noted at: Alvecote, Brandon (five-six), Charlecote GP, Draycote (several), Lower Radbourn, Morton Bagot, Offchurch, Priors Marston, Salford Priors GP (nine) and Stoneton Moat (two). There were no reports at all of breeding in the Tame Valley which is usually the stronghold, but this was presumably due to under-recording rather than an absence of broods. The Valley also fared poorly for wildfowl counting, with only Shustoke adequately covered. The only count from the stronghold at Coton/Lea Marston was 634 on November 29th, while 134 on December 15th was the best count at Kingsbury WP. Elsewhere, the only other sites to hold maxima of 20 or more were: 35 at Abbots Salford on January 21st, 22 at Temple Pool on February 24th, 42 at Compton Verney and 36 at Lower Radbourn on March 20th, 25 at Alvecote on 25th, 27 at Seeswood Pool on October 31st, 28 at Charlecote GP on December 9th and 22 at Earlswood Lakes on 13th. Worcs Eight broods were recorded at Grimley New Workings, three at Pirton Pool and three at Throckmorton Lagoons. Also bred at Ryall Pits, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. No counts received away from the tabulated localities. Staffs Breeding reported from Belvide (two or three pairs), Blithfield (two broods), Brookleys Lake ( 17 adults and 29 juveniles on July 8th), and Doxey Marshes where four pairs produced seven fledglings. Drayton Bassett held one pair as did Broughton Pond at Sugnall and a brood of six very young chicks was noted at Tittesworth on August 21st. The autumn/winter flock at Chasewater usually holds the highest number of birds in the county and so provides a good index for this species outside of the breeding season. In 2004 the year’s maximum count of 770 (on September 1st) was considerably lower than that in 2003 and has dropped the site’s five-year-average-maxima for the species to 867 which is now just below that level needed for the site to be classified of national importance for this species. The total number of birds from all sites indicates that the county’s highest autumn population was in the region of 2477 birds, little different from the 2381 total from the previous year and suggesting little overall change. W Mid Bred at Marsh Lane NR (four broods), Ryders Hayes Mere and Sandwell Valley, also present in the breeding season on Dunstall Park Lake. Up to 70 were counted at Stubbers Green in February, 13 at Bartley Reservoir in September and 24 on Olton Mere in December.

Common Pochard X Tufted Duck Warks The usual male frequented Brandon from October 12th-November 9th. Probably the same bird was at Draycote on December 27th. Staffs A drake was present at Belvide on August 30th and a female at Coldmeece on December 26th JM. W Mid One thought to be of this parentage was at Marsh Lane NR on September 26th.

Tufted Duck hybrid Staffs A bird with black head, breast and mantle, off-white/dusky flanks and a scarlet bill with dark tip was seen at distance at Blithfield on April 25th and was considered possibly to be a Tufted Duck x Rosybill hybrid WJL.

36 Greater Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Rare in summer. Warks The female first seen at Draycote in November 2003 was seen regularly up to April 16th, with a second female there on February 10th and 20th. In the Tame Valley, there was a female at Shustoke from March 2nd-5th, and a male at Ladywalk on March 16th and April 11th. Staffs The first report was of an adult male at Chasewater on January 17th, this proved to be a long-staying bird, lingering until March 3rd. Two females were noted at Kings Bromley on January 25th and again on February 20th. Belvide hosted a single male on April 3rd, a bird that was possibly the same individual as that located at Gailey on the 4th and which stayed at that site until the 13th. The final birds of the first winter period were two males and a female at Blithfield on April 28th. No reports were received again until November 9th when a single female was at Belvide followed by a male on the 13th. Single males were also reported in November at Blithfield on the 25th and at Copmere on the 27th. A first-winter male was at Belvide on December 12th while at Silverdale Colliery lake a first-winter female stayed from the 24th until the year-end A Christmas Day birder also found a female/immature at Aqualate.

Greater Scaup X Tufted Duck Warks A female was reported at Draycote on April 9th. Worcs One was a Grimley Old Workings from November 16th-18th. Staffs At Chasewater, the probable male that had been present from October 6th to the end of 2003 remained until January 6th. A drake was present at Belvide from December 26th-31st.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Rare winter visitor with occasional summer records (7/10). Warks A male in breeding plumage, but minus the tail and so possibly a first-summer bird, at Earlswood Lakes on May 24th ARD et al was an excellent find. Although it was the third record from this locality, the first two were from as long ago as 1938 (also a male in May) and 1948. At the end of the year the female from Marsh Lane visited Ladywalk on December 28th-29th several observers. Staffs A female at Blithfield on June 6th MY was also recorded on 8th ESC. W Mid A female was at Bartley Reservoir on October 31st AC remaining until November 10th ARD. An immature female was at Marsh Lane NR from November 20th until December 30th DJS et al was a first record for the reserve.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, principally in spring, late-summer and autumn. Warks It was a much better year than last, with marginally the best total (39-40) since 1996. Draycote as always held the majority, with five (three males) on March 29th, three males on April 1st, seven males on June 16th-17th, one male on July 26th, nine (three males) on August 9th, one (unsexed) on September 19th, four males on October 13th, and then up to three females or immatures on many dates during October 29th-November 19th, with two again on December 11th-12th. Elsewhere, three males were at Shustoke on March 29th, with a single male there from April 16th-19th. Coton also had a single male on April 17th, which was perhaps the same bird. Worcs Two females frequented Upper Bittell Reservoir on November 3rd.

37 Staffs Birds on passage through the county were first noted on March 28th when a single male visited Chasewater, this was followed by a single male at Blithfield on April 12th, a pair at Chasewater on the 16th, and two females at Belvide on the 23rd. Return passage of the bachelor males/immatures commenced on July 7th with a male at Belvide, and two males at Blithfield on the 23rd and three at this site on the 25th. August 9th saw a flock of 16, including four males, visiting Belvide, whilst a single female was also at Aqualate on the same day while Westport hosted a small flock of seven birds on the 10th. Late autumn passage was represented by a male at Tittesworth on October 15th and a flock of seven birds also visited this north Staffordshire site on November 2nd. Finally, a large group of 30 birds, all females/immatures were at Belvide on November 8th, this total equalling the highest count at the site. W Mid Five, (two drakes and three ducks) were at Bartley Reservoir on August 10th. while one frequented Swan Pool in Sandwell Valley between August 17th and 20th.

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca Rare winter visitor and passage migrant (4/10). Warks There were two immature males at Draycote from December 16th-31st RBR et al. Staffs At Chasewater, on November 21st, five immatures stayed until 16:00 hrs before flying to the north. They were seen to be feeding successfully on Crayfish MY, ICW et al.

Bufflehead Bucephala albeola Very rare vagrant (0/10) Warks The wide- ranging male was at Fisher’s Mill GP from June 4th-6th and again on 9th BLK et al, providing a new county record. Staffs A stunning male bird, a county and regional first, was seen initially at Branston GPs on May 24th DS, moving to Drayton Bassett Pits on 25th- Bufflehead, Drayton Bassett Pits, Phil Jones 26th JA, Whitemoor Haye 31st-June 1st MY, also visiting Croxall for most of June 1st before returning to Whitemoor Haye in the evening, then back to Drayton Bassett Pits from 7th-9th.

A touch smaller than a Common Goldeneye with a distinctive white area on the back of its head, white and blackish body and iridescent colours on the head.

W Mid The wide-ranging male was at Ryders Hayes Mere, Clayhanger between June 16th and 25th at least – a new county record.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon 2211––––––21 Dosthill/Kingsbury 55 76 29 2 1 1 1 1 1 5 16 31 Draycote 90 45 45 5 – – – – – 18 80 105 Grimley 312–––––––21 Throckmorton Lagoons 1 1 1 6 – – – – – – 2 1 Westwood Pool 881271––––577 Barton GP 872––––––211 Belvide 65 81 79 33 1 – 1 – – 20 50 60 Blithfield 25 40 37 35 – – – 1 1 3 20 7 Chasewater 128 114 40 7 – – – – – 19 85 105 Chillington 12 12 8 – – – – – 1 1 7 14 Copmere 11421––––––74 Croxall GP 15 7 72 18 – – – – – 3 12 23 Drayton Bassett 19 22 66 48 – – – – – – – 37 Kings Bromley – 10 6 – – – – – – – – 3 National Arboretum 20 – – – – – – – – – – 35 Westport Lake 610102–––––––– Whitemoor Haye 27 31 20 4 – – – – – – – 1 Bartley Reservoir 4–––––––––410 WeBS 2003 155 193 120 31 3 0 0 0 0 4 183 214 WeBS 2004 245 264 175 20 2 2 3 3 1 17 72 104 Warks The apparently crippled male again summered at Kingsbury. There were no counts in the Coton area again this year, but 18 were seen at Ladywalk on March 23rd. One or two were also seen on odd dates at Alvecote and Shustoke. Further south, records from the smaller waters were confined to the final two months of the year, with single males at Abbots Salford on November 13th, Coombe Abbey on 14th and Earlswood Lakes on 20th. Two females were also at Earlswood on December 20th and one on 27th, while an immature was at Napton Res. from November 30th-December 23rd. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, the first winter period produced singles at Kinsham Lake on 25th, Lower Moor on February 3rd, Bredon’s Hardwick on 5th and Bishampton Vale Pool on 11th. Second winter period sightings were of two at Bishampton Vale Pool on November 7th, then three on 13th, one at Upton Warren on 19th and at Bredon’s Hardwick two were present on November 1st, one on 20th and two on December 5th. Staffs The totals for this species suggest little change in status in either winter period. Chasewater, as usual, held the most significant numbers and here the December maximum count of 105 birds perhaps indicated a slight reduction when compared with the 1999-2003 average maxima for this period of 136 birds. Birds were noted until April 23rd when eight birds remained at Blithfield, thereafter there were a series of records of two birds summering at Gailey this increasing to three on July 18th these being noted into August. Returning birds were first noted at Blithfield on September 26th with the first bird at Chasewater not being noted until October 15th. A further nine untabulated sites also held up to ten birds. W Mid Singletons were on Ryder’s Hayes Mere on November 13th and December 27th, and at Stubbers Green on November 21st.

Smew Mergellus albellus Uncommon winter visitor. Very rare in summer. Warks The regular small wintering flock was again present during the early months in

39 the Tame Valley, often around Dosthill, but increasingly favouring various pools in Kingsbury WP. Monthly maxima comprised nine (three males) on January 27th, seven (one male) on February 12th and six (one male) from March 4th-6th. The last was seen on March 13th. At Draycote, the redhead from December 2003 remained throughout January- February, with two seen on February 11th and three from 26th-March 2nd, after which they departed. The only other report was of a single redhead at Napton Res. on January 13th, a good record from here. The first autumn return concerned a redhead at Brandon on November 26th. Single males were then reported from Draycote during December 21st- 31st, and at Kingsbury on 28th-29th. Worcs Two redheads were discovered in the late afternoon at Grimley Old Workings on January 4th MY, ICW et al and were observed again the following morning and late afternoon. Presumably the same two individuals were seen at Upton Warren on 9th GG et al and also roosted that evening at Westwood Pool TMH et al. A redhead was also at Upton Warren on January 17th GG. Another redhead appeared at Throckmorton Lagoons on January 18th RAP et al and this bird roamed between here and Lower Moor until February 9th, also visiting Bishampton Vale Pool on February 1st, 4th, 5th and 8th. After the 9th it took up residence at Bishampton Vale Pool until 21st. The only record during the second winter period was a splendid drake at Grimley New Workings on December 14th ROB et al. Staffs Again, reports came predominately from the Trent/Tame valley gravel pits in the south-east of the county with a minimum of six birds being present in the first month of the year. The year opened with a male at Chasewater, this being joined by a redhead on the 10th and this pair being noted intermittently until February 10th. At Whitemoor Haye one male and three redheads were reported on January 1st and three redheads on the 4th, with the male and three redheads also seen at Drayton Bassett. Birds from this site split between Dosthill with this group consisting of five birds on January 3rd and four redheads on the 5th, thereafter two or three birds were regularly reported up until February 23rd. Barton GP hosted a single redhead on January 17th and three redheads on the 24th and 25th and just two on the 28th. The two males at Croxall at the end of 2003 were reported there on January 2nd and were joined by a redhead on the 3rd, two redheads being noted between the 12th and 19th of the month with one leaving before the 21st. A single male was at this site on February 9th and a pair arrived on March 1st and would appear to have been continually present until the 21st, which was the last date the species was reported in the early part of the year. The only birds reported towards the west of the county were three at Copmere on January 17th. The first bird of the second winter period was at Drayton Bassett on December 10th followed by a redhead at Croxall between the 13th and 18th and a male at Belvide on the 16th and 17th. A male was noted at Drayton Bassett on December 20th and two redheads were noted there on the 27th with a single still there at the year’s end. W Mid A redhead was on Dartmouth Park boating lake in Sandwell Valley between December 14th and 16th MJH et al.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in Staffs in 1994. Warks Two males were at Draycote from December 9th-16th PJF et al. Worcs An eclipse drake visited Grimley New Workings on September 25th TN, SMW et al, and a redhead was seen briefly at Upton Warren on December 14th RAP.

40 Staffs An eclipse male at Blithfield from July 10th to 12th was an unseasonal find MPR.

Goosander Mergus merganser Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare breeding bird in Staffs and Worcs since 1990.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote 42 20 12 9 – – – – – – 17 13 Draycote 3831333––––––2280 Earlswood –94–––––––412 Ladywalk 9 15 13 12 – – – – – – 6 9 Shustoke 23613––––––2– Bittell 402631–––––––718 Barton GP 14181–––––37 Belvide Res. 31 15 9 1 – – 1 1 2 5 34 20 Blithfield Reservoir 84 106 19 3 – – 5 13 17 1 16 84 Brookleys Lake 9 7 3 – – – – – – 10 2 21 Chasewater Reservoir 9 8 5 – – – – – – 3 21 34 Chillington 21 – 3 – – – – – – – – – Copmere 25 13 – – – – – – – – 16 28 Doxey Marshes 31 21 12 3 – – – – – 6 17 18 Kings Bromley – 2 16 – – – – – – – 2 – Tittesworth Reservoir 13 6 4 – – – – 1 – – 7 13 Sandwell Valley 40 40 10 4 1 – – 3 – 8 17 39 Sheepwash UP 17 28 20 3 – – – – – – 5 20 WeBS 2003 104 134 113 1 0 0 0 0 0 32 87 172 WeBS 2004 195 120 78 2 1 0 0 0 14 15 41 86

Warks The December count at Draycote was the highest in the county since January 1998. One to three were also seen, often regularly, in the northern half of the county at Brandon, Coton, Dosthill, Kingsbury, Packington and Seeswood Pool. Among the very few seen on southern waters were included the last spring and first autumn county records. There were two redheads at Compton Verney on February 13th, a first-winter male at Abbots Salford from April 21st-24th which was also seen on the River Avon at Bidford on 22nd, a male in flight over Lillington on October 31st, and finally a male at Abbots Salford on November 20th and December 26th. Worcs During the first winter period, birds were regularly encountered at Trimpley, from January 1st-late March, ether on the reservoir or along the River Severn. Counts included five on January 3rd, four on March 2nd and 17 on 20th. Two visited Westwood pool on January 1st and 2nd, one was present on 17th and three there on March 14th. 11 were noted at Cofton Hackett Reservoir on January 11th, one on the River Severn in Worcester on 12th and 21st and five on the River Severn at Upper Arley on 26th. Birds were present at Kyre Pool from February 13th-March 23rd, the maximum count being of 29 on February 13th. Blake Mill Pool produced a run of sightings from mid to late March, with maximum counts being six on 16th, eight on 20th, four on 26th and the last recorded was of two on 27th. A drake was noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 27th, a pair at Grimley New Workings on 29th and six at Upton Warren on April 4th. Second winter period sightings included singles at Westwood Pool on October 5th, 22nd, November 12th, 3rd, 5th, 25th, 26th and December 26th, plus three were present on November 21st. One was at Upton Warren on October 8th, three were noted the following day, then single were observed on 13th, 22nd-25th, 31st, November 9th and 12th. The Chateau Impney held

41 singles on October 12th and 19th, one was at Gwen Finch Wetland on 17th, two on the River Severn at Grimley on 25th and two at Trimpley Reservoir on 27th, one on 28th and three on November 27th. At Diglis Lock, two were present on November 15th, three on December 3rd and one on 7th, variable numbers visited Kyre Pool between November 19th-December 25th, with a maximum count of 19 on November 19th, Bredon’s Hardwick and Lower Moor both held singles on November 27th and six were on the River Severn at Upper Arley on 28th. Finally two were at Lower Moor on December 4th, two on the River Severn in Worcester on 8th, one at Arrow Valley Lake on 16th and three on the River Severn at Upper Arley on 26th. Staffs Again, no reports of confirmed breeding were received this year although birds were noted during May on the River Dove at Wolfscote Dale and on the Churnet at Crumpwood. Blithfield again hosted the county’s main winter population and the highest count there, of 106 on February 29th, compared well with the 1999-2003 site average of 72. Numbers were lower at Belvide and at Tittesworth so the whole picture of the wintering population may be one of little change. Several birds were noted in winter Female Goosander, Ford Green, Dave Kelsall periods on the River Trent/ River Sow area at Wolseley Bridge and at Ingestre, with the highest count being of 11 at Ingestre on February 18th. It is conjectured that these birds may be part of the Blithfield roosting population which moves into the river system to feed during the day. Last and first dates are difficult to determine, although birds lingered at Doxey Marshes until April 25th and the first bird back at Blithfield was seen on July 31st with 13 there on August 10th. The species was widely reported throughout the county from a further 10 untabulated sites. W Mid Two were at Marsh Lane NR on January 4th with a fly-over drake on November 21st and a duck over on 24th. Three were at Stubbers Green on March 11th with two noted on 23rd. Also reported from Ryder’s Hayes Mere.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Fairly common resident of feral origin.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – – – 1 2 2 2 2 – 1 – – Coton – 33 37 – – – – – – – 73 65 Dosthill/Kingsbury 38 96 – – 2 – – – 1 – – – Draycote 526–1–––3–211 Lower Radbourn 1 1 2 4 4 4 6 1 1 – 1 – Salford Priors GP ––––––2661–– Shustoke –4––––––41441

42 JFMAMJJASOND Grimley New Workings–––454411––– Kinsham 326629768565 Pirton Pool – – 2 6 4 11 9 13 6 2 – – Upton Warren –15893421––– Westwood 9 20 32 28 12 13 13 15 8 25 42 40 Aqualate – – 2 11 6 4 – – – 2 – – Belvide 10118198 4 3 –16334319 Blithfield 109 74 81 14 4 15 25 111 149 164 260 – Chasewater 8 1 3 4 2 2 4 2 3 2 3 9 Gailey – – –152121810– – 6 6 Hill Ridware – – 1 1 – 6 6 7 3 5 2 – Marsh Lane NR 114496412121 WeBS 2003 183 56 222 75 43 37 58 111 32 147 132 161 WeBS 2004 16419712167406865138171284157

Warks Despite culling measures, an improved presence was evident in the Tame Valley this year. Broods were noted at Lower Radbourn, Packington Park and Salford Priors GP; with pairs also present at times in the breeding season at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Ladywalk, Offchurch and Stoneton Moat. Autumn records came from Coombe Abbey and Earlswood Lakes, where five on September 17th was a good record for that locality. Worcs Numbers remaining stable in the county and breeding pairs reported from Bishampton Vale Pool (two) and Pirton Pool (three+). Away from the tabulated sites, two were at Bittell Reservoir on April 25th and 13 at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 12th. Staffs No reports of breeding were received in 2004 and substantial numbers were noted only at Blithfield where the November count of 260, which occurred on November 19th, was close to the 1999-2003 average maxima for the site of 294. This may indicate a slight recovery from the substantially lower numbers recorded in the previous two years. Reported from a further six untabulated sites including Copmere and Doxey Marshes during May and June. W Mid Up to three pairs were noted during the summer at Berkswell Lake with one brood of seven being noted. Two pairs bred on Clayhanger Marsh rearing six and four young respectively. Noted in the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR while seven at Marsh Lane NR on 14th February was the highest count submitted for the County.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Uncommon and declining resident on the North Staffs Moors. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Knotbury where a pair shepherded eight young on June 6th. Surveys earlier and later in the year, however, suggest that breeding birds are widespread across the northern moorlands. In late February 20 territories were located around the Roaches along with a pair at Back Forest while on March 28th 12 were present at Knotbury. On April 25th three males were displaying at Goldsitch Moss, 12+ at Orchard Common and five at Wolf Edge/Oliver Hill. Five birds were also present at Swallow Moss and one at Middle Hills in late spring. Other locations holding birds were Gradbach (two- three pairs in December), Gun Hill (eight on October 17th), Hollinsclough Moor (three on December 5th) and Lady Edge (16 on December 5th). In the second winter period 24 were present in the Knotbury – Oliver Hill area on October 31st, nine at Back Forest on November 13th, 50 in the Roaches area on 14th, 30 in the Knotbury – Oliver Hill area on December 4th, nine at Swallow Moss – Revidge on 12th and 15 at Boarsgrove – Middle Hills on 19th.

43 Red Grouse, North Staffs Moors, Dave Kelsall

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks Breeding was proved in the Alvecote area, and at Beausale, Bramcote Hall, Chadshunt, Gaydon, Kenilworth, Maxstoke, Northend and Southam. About 15-18 pairs were present in the breeding season on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot. During the autumn 500 more were released here and 167 sub - sequently shot. Hundreds have also been released annually in the nearby Spernall and Shelfield district in recent years. Numbers were lower in the other two main shooting districts, with not more than 50 at Salford Priors GP and 25 at Ilmington Downs during the autumn (cf. 185 and 115 at Red-legged Partridge, Terry Davies these localities in autumn 2003). Elsewhere, there was a small release near Wormleighton Res., and a covey of 31 was seen on December 20th. No party greater than ten were seen in non-shooting districts. Among

44 the more interesting reports was of one walking down a footpath on an urban housing estate in eastern Nuneaton on October 16th; and two at Brandon on March 12th, which were said to be the first on the reserve since December 1996. Worcs Two pairs bred at Tibberton and seven chicks, with adult, were seen at Lower Moor in July. Only modest coveys were reported this year, including 10 at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 11th, 10 at Shenstone on November 2nd, 16 at Bredon Field Farm on 7th, 13 at Grimley New Workings on 21st and nine at Upper Arley on 28th. Small numbers also observed at Abberton, Barnett Brook, Blakedown, Chaddesley, Clent, Dowles Brook, Harvington, Ladies Pool, Sheriff’s Lench, Throckmorton Tip, Upton Warren, Westwood, Willow Marsh Fisheries and Wiseman’s Scrape. Staffs Counts of one to ten birds came from 31 sites spread across the county. The larger counts included 14 at Hanchurch on January 17th and 13 at the National Memorial Arboretum on November 28th. W Mid Reported in the breeding season from Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Meriden (near Stonebridge Island) and Sandwell Valley (two noted on May 1st). Single birds were recorded in Smestow Valley on April 17th and May 1st. Eight were in the Box Trees Farm area of Illshaw Heath on November 27th.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Fairly common, but rapidly declining resident. Warks Breeding was proved at Birchmoor, Bramcote Hall, Butlers Marston, Gaydon, and near Napton Res.; while other pairs were located in the breeding season at: Alvecote, Brandon, Broadwell, Chesterton, Dordon, Draycote, Grandborough, Honiley, Kingsbury, Lea Marston, Shotteswell, Tysoe and Wishaw. The largest coveys were reported in November, with seven at Farnborough and 11 at Draycote on 5th, and 13 at Wishaw on 19th. Otherwise there were reports of from one to five birds at: Abbots Salford, Attleborough Fields, Bermuda, Charlecote, Curdworth, Griff, Oxhill, Ratley, Salford Priors GP and Whatcote. Reports came from just 29 localities (cf. 35 in 2003 and 33 in 2002). Worcs Two pairs bred at Tibberton and seven chicks, with adult were seen at Lower Moor in July. Only modest coveys were reported this year, including 10 at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 11th, 10 at Shenstone on November 2nd, 16 at Bredon Field Farm on 7th, 13 at Grimley New Workings on 21st and nine at Upper Arley on 28th. Small numbers also observed at Abberton, Barnett Brook, Blakedown, Chaddesley, Clent, Dowles Brook, Harvington, Ladies Pool, Sheriff’s Lench, Throckmorton Tip, Upton Warren, Westwood, Willow Marsh Fisheries and Wiseman’s Scrape. Staffs Just one pair with chicks was seen this year at Reapsmoor, Warslow. Further pairs were seen in the summer months at Belvide, Coldmeece, Cuckoo Bank, Dunston Heath, Flash and Whitemoor Haye (two); along with single birds at Lapley Wood, Silverdale Colliery and the River Sow meadows (Baswich) – some or all of which could have been breeding birds. Whitemoor Haye held the highest concentration of birds with 13 in January, three in February and March, two in April, 26 in October, 12 in November and 14 in December. Significant counts also came from Cuckoo Bank with 10 in February, two in March, six in April, seven in August and September, 20 in October, 11 in November and 16 in December. Recorded throughout the year at Apedale CP/Silverdale Colliery, with the highest count being just six on September 1st and November 27th. Likewise at Dunston Heath, the highest count was five on August 4th. Elsewhere, records include one at Blore on January 14th, Cheshire Wood on 24th, nine at Mill Meece on 25th, three at Halfpenny

45 Green on February 17th, two at Essington Quarry Pool on March 18th, two at Stanton on March 25th, two at Belvide on March 28th and August 26th, two at Okeover on September 4th and nine at Gospel Ash on November 18th. W Mid At Peddimore Lane, Minworth two were noted on April 12th with five in the same area on 27th. Two were in Smestow Valley on May 1st – only the second site record.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer visitor in fluctuating numbers, but usually scarce. Very rare in winter. Average dates: 13th May (17) to 26th August (13). Warks Breeding was suspected at Radford Semele JJB, where calls were heard from an extensive field of barley on several occasions during late June and July, while on June 16th a pair was watched feeding on an adjoining farm tip. The only other report of a calling male was of one in a field near Salford Priors GP on June 6th GEC. There were two interesting records later in the season, with one at Draycote on August 24th RCM, and a bevy of 11 flushed from rough set-aside at Priors Hardwick on September 2nd MJL. The latter record is strongly suggestive of a locally reared brood. Staffs One found at Black Bank on May 29th RS was joined by another from 30th until June 2nd NDP. W Mid A male was found in the Illshaw Pastures area of Blythe Valley Country Park on May 28th and 29th ARD et al.

1992 Addendum Warks Breeding was confirmed at Polesworth, where after a male was heard calling in June, a female with a brood of chicks was seen in late summer JAH, JAI.

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Warks The breeding population of a 120 ha mixed farm at Morton Bagot was estimated at ten pairs. A flock of 85, presumably newly-released, were counted on the Fenny Compton Hills on August 1st. Worcs No significant records received. Staffs The only double-figure count (10) came from Doxey on December 12th. W Mid Breeding season records emanated from Edgbaston Pool (at least two), Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley (rapidly increasing with up to eight males noted and at least three pairs bred), Selly Oak (two locations – Lodge Hill Road and Tillyard Croft), Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Twenty was the peak count at Marsh Lane NR.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Rare winter visitor (9/10). Warks A single bird was at Draycote from December 22nd-27th MD et al. Worcs One flew low over the Flash Pools at Upton Warren on November 4th JTB, but unfortunately failed to land and continued in a north-easterly direction.

2002 Addendum Staffs A juvenile was seen at Brookleys Lake on January 26th GP.

46 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 17––––––––1819– Draycote 30 11 6 4 2 2 7 16 45 33 16 38 Salford Priors GP ––––8881628753 Shustoke 106 4 4 4 – – 821181712 Grimley New Workings – – – 17 8 6 5 8 13 12 14 16 Kinsham 444344487767 Pirton Pool – 1 4 6 9 18 18 23 10 6 4 1 Upton Warren 4444225712832 Westwood 2178234176211 Barton 10 12 10 9 6 9 13 28 38 36 19 14 Belvide –1211–762342– Branston GP –612197444553 Brookleys Lake 864–––8–24–– Chasewater 4–32––––3323 Copmere 6 2 1 – – – – 1 2 4 4 6 Croxall GP 10 7 3 1 – – – 3 5 3 7 5 Gailey – – – 4 6 5 7 51 – – 5 20 Kettlebrook Lakes 42322–334212 Silverdale Colliery 1 1 – 6 2 8 6 4 6 – – – Marsh Lane NR 3 3 5 12 8 9 19 24 26 19 9 3 Smestow Valley 221––1–––114 WeBS 2003 14295924339375512418021611695 WeBS 2004 86 88 65 43 39 48 74 142 137 104 97 72 Warks A total of 41 breeding pairs was reported at 25 sites (cf. 39 at 21 sites in 2003, 34 at 19 sites in 2002): Alvecote (two), Billesley, Brailes, Brandon (two), Chadshunt, Charlecote GP (three), Coombe Abbey, DMC Kineton, Draycote, Fulready, Haselor (River Alne), Hunningham (River Leam), Idlicote, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lower Radbourn (three), Morton Bagot, Napton Res. (four), Offchurch (two), Priors Marston, Salford Priors GP (four), Shustoke (two, with the first successful breeding recorded from the main reservoir), Stoneton Moat (three), Whittle ford Park and Wootton Wawen. Outside the breeding season, the autumn flock at Draycote fell by over 50% this year; while non- tabulated maxima included up to 12 at Ladywalk, and ten at both Alvecote and Dosthill. Worcs Breeding was reported from Bis - hampton Vale Pool, with five pairs recorded and some double brooded, five broods were reared at Grimley Gravel Pits, two pairs at Kinsham Lake, four broods hatched at Pirton Pool, where 12 young were observed on July 20th, two pairs at Ryall Pits and a Little Grebe, Westport, Dave Kelsall pair bred successfully at Throckmorton Lagoons. Counts made away from the tabulated localities were of eight at

47 Bishampton Vale Pools on January 29th, seven at Strensham Lagoons on February 22nd, 33 at Bishampton Vale pools on August 24th, 10 at Clifton Pits on September 11th, three at Bittell Reservoir on November 12th and six at Beckford Conservation Pit on December 29th. Staffs Breeding was reported from the following sites; at Apedale where a pair breeding on Burley Pools produced one juvenile, at Brookleys Lake where two pairs each had two juveniles on July 21st, at Doxey Marshes a pair failed in May but on August 21st an adult was accompanied by a juvenile, at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 23rd a pair had a brood of four which had been reduced to one by June 27th and at Gailey two juveniles on July 31st and on August 23rd a count of 51 included eight young. At Silverdale Colliery a pair displaying in April and sitting during May produced four chicks which were seen on June 17th; all surviving into July. This pair then produced a second brood of four on September 9th, but only one of these possibly survived. Reported from a number sites not in the tabulated table. W Mid Breeding was reported from Bourne Pool (in Aldridge), Blythe Valley Country Park (five pairs), Hillfield Park, Marsh Lane NR (approximately eight pairs), Sandwell Valley (two pairs) and Sheepwash UP. One was on Dunstall Park Lake on June 6th (a site where pairs have bred over the last few years) while 10 were counted in Sandwell Valley in April. Smaller numbers, fewer than five, were reported outside of the breeding season from Bartley Reservoir, Clayhanger, Frankley Reservoir and Ryders Hayes Mere.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe 18 14 – 30 21 6 4 7 14 9 8 – Draycote 210 82 86 51 58 41 76 98 82 124 175 180 Shustoke 31 25 11 5 4 – – 80 85 63 33 26 Bittell 28 39 67 11 – – – 8 9 – 19 46 Bredonʼs Hardwick 3423–626102187 Grimley New Workings–––4424421–– Kinsham 444444544665 Upton Warren 5 8 8 18 18 6 5 6 7 8 12 6 Westwood 3 9 12 10 16 31 37 19 16 3 1 1 Aqualate 8 7 14 33 27 21 – 24 22 23 4 – Barton 21 16 12 22 18 16 19 39 28 27 39 16 Belvide 81091030–324030526469 Blithfield 61203132516712915181– – – Branston Water Park14129775894938 Chasewater 23 30 19 15 11 12 14 13 16 35 20 21 Chillington 14 16 16 8 9 12 12 20 20 17 13 12 Copmere 21–2–256121594 Croxall GP 12 12 11 19 13 22 23 26 19 28 21 27 Doxey Marshes 3 5 13 12 12 13 9 9 4 4 3 1 Elford 10 16 15 11 11 16 15 5 8 6 3 1 Gailey – – – 9 8 9 8 25 – – 16 19 Kings Bromley 32 34 47 42 37 32 36 21 32 61 40 36 Rocester Pools 3 6 12 7 8 6 8 – 7 9 4 5 Rudyard – – 24 8 11 19 39 – – 5 – – Tittesworth –212–1541410674 Westport 79768138615––– Whitemoor Haye 2 – – 2 2 5 6 2 4 4 2 2 Marsh Lane NR 2 2 2 – 3 2 5 2 1 1 – –

48 JFMAMJ JASOND Sandwell Valley 6 14 9 8 14 13 9 14 10 12 15 14 Sutton Park 10 15 14 9 – – – – – 13 6 7 WeBS 2003 419 373 458 376 313 483 599 569 389 638 520 450 WeBS 2004 361 367 368 355 342 321 446 533 347 339 302 290 Warks Breeding pairs were reported at: Alvecote (at least five), Brandon (one of three successful), Chesterton, Compton Verney (three), Coombe Abbey, Coton, DMC Kineton, Draycote, Earlswood, Hodnell, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lower Radbourn, Napton Res. (four), Packington Park, Seeswood (two), Shustoke (two, including one successfully for the first time on the main reservoir), Wootton Wawen and Wormleighton Res. Early breeding, once very unusual but now almost the norm, was reported from Kingsbury: a nest with four eggs on March 24th, and Coton: a brood of half grown young on April 12th. Away from tabulated waters, more casual counts of adults included: 27 at Alvecote on March 25th and 25 there on July 22nd, 14 at Wootton Wawen on April 20th, 16 at Earlswood on May 16th, 12 at Abbots Salford on August 15th, 22 at Coton on November 29th and 12 at Seeswood Pool on December 27th. Worcs Bred successfully at Kinsham Lake, Lenchwick, Lower Moor, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. No other data received away from the tabulated sites. Staffs Breeding reports comprised a juvenile at Bateswood, four juveniles at Blithfield, seven juveniles, three of which were a late brood, at Brookleys Lake on August 26th, two juveniles at Coldmeece, six pairs at Doxey Marshes, 19 juveniles at Rudyard Lake, five juveniles, of which only two survived, at Tittesworth and a juvenile at Tixall Wide. Breeding was attempted at Belvide but there were no reports of young. W Mid Breeding was reported from Brookvale Park, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston Pool (three pairs), Marsh Lane NR (attempted but unsuccessful), Ravenshaw (at Whale Tankers), Rocket Pool (Bradley), Sandwell Valley (four pairs), Sneyd Pool (in Bloxwich) and Witton Lakes. Also reported from Olton Mere (peak counts of 12 in October/November), Ryders Hayes Mere (peak of five in October) and Valley Parkway (in Bourneville).

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Staffs Just one this year at Blithfield from February 28th until March 7th many obs.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks Two were seen at Earlswood Lakes on December 10th ARD et al. Staffs One was off the south shore at Chasewater on October 15th PJe.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, which sporadic breeding. Rare in winter. Warks A very poor year, with only three birds reported and none confirmed in the Tame Valley for the second consecutive year. All records came again from Draycote, where there was an adult moulting into breeding plumage from April 1st-13th JFCJ et al, a juvenile there on August 24th RCM, and a late bird from November 30th-December 5th LPr, PPr et al. Worcs Five individuals noted during spring passage. Westwood Pool held a partial summer-plumaged bird from March 28th-30th RAH et al and pairs in full breeding plumage were recorded at the Moors Pool at Upton Warren on May 20th JTB et al and at Westwood Pool on 27th WD et al. A family group of two adults and a single juvenile

49 visited Westwood Pool on August 4th WD et al and the final record for the year came also from this locality, with a first- winter individual present from October 18th-November 12th TMH et al. Staffs One pair fledged two young; site and observers withheld. One seen at Belvide on May 15th FCG, was joined by another the next day SN. One visited Blithfield on July 11th MPR, REH, SAR. A juvenile arrived at Belvide on September 10th, being joined by an adult bird on 28th SN, these staying until November 22nd after which the juvenile Black-necked Grebe, Westwood Pool, Andy Warr departed, the adult remaining until 26th. A juvenile was present Blithfield on September 19th GJM, ESC with another at Chasewater on 22nd PJe and 23rd GJM. Two were seen at Aqualate on October 14th PJor, 24th-25th KH.

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis Rare vagrant (3/10). Warks A single bird at Draycote on January 1st RCM, MWi et al was the first acceptable record in the county for ten years. Surprisingly, another was found there on September 13th RCM. These are the ninth and tenth county records, with six of these coming from Draycote.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Rare, mainly storm-driven, autumn vagrant (8/10). Warks There was a bird at Draycote on September 12th RCM et al, during a period of strong south-westerlies. Staffs A bird was seen at Blithfield on September 12th, flying off at 0640 in an easterly direction MPR. This was quickly followed by one which spent all day at Blithfield on September 19th MJI et al, drawing appreciative crowds. These were the first since 1996 so two in one year is particularly noteworthy. W Mid One was collected in Meriden on September 28th but had apparently been found in Birmingham on 27th, it was taken to Coventry RSPCA from where it was subsequently transferred and released at Shustoke Reservoir NPB, CH.

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Rare passage migrant and storm-driven vagrant (8/10). Warks A third-year bird found at Lower Quinton on July 5th was collected by the RSPCA but later died in care per CHe. On September 25th an adult was watched circling Canal Pool, Kingsbury for a few minutes around 1pm before flying south IBo, DWJ. It was also reportedly seen there earlier in the day by at least one other observer and on the previous evening by an angler.

50 Worcs Incredibly four individuals, comprising two records, visited the county. A third- winter touched down briefly at Kinsham Lake on July 4th GHP et al and three juvenile drifted over the Flash Pools at Upton Warren on November 1st JTB et al.

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter resident and passage migrant. Uncommon breeder.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon 791927126 714206151636 Draycote 85254 1 1 2 9 116132280 Ladywalk 135 – 53 23 – – – – 85 – 248 – The Salfords 37 32 – – – – 7 14 21 20 37 40 Bittell 25 23 23 – – – – 2 18 – 18 21 Bredonʼs Hardwick 37 19 27 23 – 4 1 15 16 63 30 30 Grimley New Workings – 25 – 2 – – – – 1 – 2 – Upton Warren 8 13 10 8 2 10 8 7 8 9 24 13 Westwood 7756405154112713313212 Aqualate 594839395873–2812253332 Barton 32 27 13 30 29 6 14 19 38 11 26 37 Belvide 25 – 9 1 1 2 – 8 27 57 – – Blithfield 21 35 78 33 24 22 36 73 67 – – – Branston GP 1513––81–169 Branston Water Park 12 3 – 1 2 1 – – – 3 11 6 Chasewater 44 10 5 1 1 – 4 3 1 13 10 11 Chillington 26 27 29 4 3 7 5 16 20 31 3 – Coldmeece Pools 6 12 12 8 1 – – – – 3 – – Copmere 3 4 13 9 3 1 2 – 7 16 20 17 Croxall 12 7 10 16 5 11 6 2 18 37 4 39 Fisherwick 5293321104941 Gailey –––71149––18 Hill Ridware 7 9 14 9 4 7 12 7 16 9 3 8 Kings Bromley 281215131520242015141823 Tittesworth – 21 – 3 – – 10 – 23 8 3 8 Marsh Lane NR 44 36 25 12 5 4 10 10 16 20 27 31 Sheepwash UP 4 4 3 2 1 – 1 4 7 5 5 2 Stubbers Green 1 – – – – – – 1 7 2 3 5 WeBS 2003 665 534 383 193 181 162 268 336 349 600 551 557 WeBS 2004 559 554 382 193 175 193 164 234 388 354 487 255 Warks A total of 18 pairs (cf. 17 in 2003) bred in the Coombe Abbey heronry. Counts were very sparse this year in the Tame Valley, with 22 at Coton/Lea Marston on November 29th and 62 at Kingsbury on December 21st, the best from these waters. Elsewhere, a regular flock still persists in the Abbots Salford/Salford Priors GP area (listed as “The Salfords” in the table); while counts of ten at Earlswood Lakes on December 17th and 16 at Seeswood Pool on 27th, were high for these sites. Worcs Regularly encountered throughout the year on most lakes and rivers in the county, with totals peaking during the winter months. Small groups reported away from the tabulated localities included four over Naunton Beauchamp on January 7th, three at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 24th and three at Throckmorton Lagoons on September 15th. Staffs A site in the west of the county had 26 occupied nests but there were no reports of the numbers fledged. The only notable count not in the tabulated list was 17 at Dosthill Pits in February. W Mid At Ryders Hayes Mere, four were noted on January 14th with two on 20th and a

51 single bird on September 16th. A creditable 24 were counted at Frankley Reservoir on March 2nd. At Dunstall Park one flew northwards on March 7th, two birds circled high before going towards the south-west on May 5th and one bird headed the same way on May 15th, whilst two birds flew south-westwards over Newbridge on August 2nd. Regularly reported from Sandwell Valley with a peak of six over on June 26th. One to Great Cormorant, Westport Lake, Dave Kelsall three birds regularly reported from Olton Mere in October and November.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Scarce visitor in all months, with occasional influxes in autumn and winter. Warks There was an immature at Draycote on January 18th JFCJ. In the autumn an immature was at Brandon from September 29th-October 2nd and again on 5th JMR et al, with possibly the same bird at Draycote on 9th LPr, PPr and 12th SS. Worcs A first-summer bird was found on the sailing lake at Upton Warren on the afternoon of September 21st and departed at 08.00 the following morning SMW et al.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Warks There were again regular winter sightings at the two main sites. Ladywalk held three birds from January 1st-16th and then one or two regularly afterwards, but with probably four present during February 27th-March 1st including two new birds brought in by a cold spell. Two stayed until March 7th with the last bird being seen on 12th SLC, BLK et al. Brandon also produced an excellent series of sightings during the early months, with up to two birds seen on a regular basis from January 1st-March 12th BMCG. The coincidence of dates for the last spring sightings on these two reserves was interesting. Compared to recent autumns it was a poor year at Ladywalk, with just one bird returning here on October 18th and then staying only to December 16th SLC, BLK et al. A single bird was also seen at Brandon on December 3rd, 21st, and 26th-27th BMCG. The only other record concerned a bird reportedly flushed by an angler from reeds beside the River Avon at Bidford in early January per MJI, near where a bird was seen in early 2001 when the riverbanks were closed during the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease. Unfortunately the bird could not be relocated and will have to remain unconfirmed. Worcs One was observed on the Moors Pool at Upton Warren from January 19th KJ et al and was joined by a second on 22nd WFP et al. Both showed almost daily until March 8th with a single bird remaining until 14th. During the second winter period a singleton, probably a returning bird, frequented the Moors Pool from November 10th to the year’s end NB et al. Staffs A bird was seen regularly at Baggeridge CP from January 17th until February 5th DJW. A far more reclusive bird showed occasionally at Aqualate from October 28th until the year’s end many observers.

52 Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Rare vagrant (4/10).

Night Heron, Sheepwash UP, Mark Priest

W Mid A first-summer bird was a superb find at Sheepwash UP on August 5th and 6th DW. The third record for the county; the last being in 1994 at Brierley Hill.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Very rare vagrant (0/10). Staffs An adult bird stayed for the day at Blithfield on May 31st MPR and drew a large number of admirers. This was the second county and Regional record, following the first on May 17th 1874 at Coton-in-the- Clay. Squacco Heron, Blithfield, Phil Jones

53 Little Egret Egretta garzetta Uncommon and increasing visitor. Warks Another good year, with birds recorded in the county from January-April, and again from July-November. The year began with a bird found feeding along a stream on farmland at Moreton Morrell from January 7th-12th which had been first located nearby in December 2003. In the Tame Valley a bird appeared at Ladywalk on January 10th, before moving to Lea Marston on 11th and then to the Kingsbury area from 13th-February 12th. Probably the same bird was reported again here on March 26th and at Ladywalk on April 2nd. The only other reported during the first quarter was seen at Brandon on February 11th, which was later relocated along the River Sowe in Coventry. The first birds of the now traditional late summer influx appeared at three sites on July 9th. In the Tame Valley individuals appeared on that date at both Kingsbury and Shustoke. Ladywalk had the majority of sightings, with regular records of at least one bird from July 15th-October 17th, but with two on July 28th, three on August 3rd, three again on September 8th and 15th, two on 21st and then again from 26th-October 8th. Coton had a bird on several dates during late July and August, Kingsbury had two on August 2nd and one on 28th, when two were at Coleshill GP; while Shustoke had a bird on September 14th. Presumably these involved the Ladywalk birds. Elsewhere in the north and east there were records of single birds at: Forest of Arden Hotel, Packington on July 25th, Brandon from July 25th-August 8th, Draycote on July 26th and at Alvecote from July 31st-August 7th, and on August 22nd, September 1st-7th and October 13th. In the south of the county single birds were reported at Wormleighton Res. on July 9th (the first record there), at Sweet Knowle, Preston-on- Stour later that month, at Charlecote Park and the River Avon between there and Sherbourne from September 5th-13th, and at Salford Priors GP from September 5th-19th. The final bird of the year visited Draycote on November 30th. Worcs Just two individuals reported during the first half of the year, with singles at Upton Warren on January 2nd and May 1st. Regularly encountered during late summer and autumn again this year, with Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland and Upton Warren being the best localities to observe this species. One took up residence along the River Severn at Grimley from June 27th-July 14th and Grimley New Workings held singles on July 2nd, 15th, 18th, 19th, August 1st, 5th, 6th, 19th, 21st, 23rd and on most days from September 1st-16th. Four were also noted on August 4th and two on 20th. Two visited Grimley Old Workings on July 13th and a single remained here until August 3rd. Grimley sailing lake held one on July 21st. At Upton Warren singles were noted on July 9th, 18th, 31st and August 2nd, then three on 7th, one on 9th, 11th and September 8th and finally two on 9th. Two were found at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 29th and August 15th, one remained on 16th, then one from September 7th-15th, two from 16th-19th and one again from 20th- 23rd. Other localities recording single birds were Upper Arley on July 11th, Bewdley on 12th, Trimpley Reservoir on 14th, Upper Bittell Reservoir on 15th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th and August 15th and Kinsham Lake on July 22nd. Two were at Lower Moor on August 16th and one at Westwood Pool on September 1st. Staffs The first birds were seen at Park Farm, Trysull on January 9th and Branston Water Park on 29th while the next was at Doxey on April 17th-18th. Post-breeding dispersal accounted for most of the sightings commencing with one at Blithfield on July 15th-21st, then others at Belvide on 17th Coldmeece on 23rd, Doxey on 27th-28th, Blithfield on 28th, Rudyard Lake on 31st-August 1st, Blithfield on August 1st, Chasewater on 8th and 12th, two at Barton GP also on 8th, Blithfield on 13th, Catholme on 15th, three at Barton GP on 22nd, Wolseley Bridge on 24th, Crown Meadows, Stone on 27th,

54 Trentham Gardens Lake on September 1st, Blithfield on 3rd, Belvide on 25th and finally Blithfield on October 16th. W Mid One on Swan Pool in Sandwell Valley on July 6th TCH. What was presumably the same individual was noted at Sheepwash UP on July 7th AGW. One, thought to be a non-breeding adult, was at Marsh Lane NR on July 25th DJS, subsequently relocating to the adjacent Bradnock’s Marsh on July 26th and before moving back to Marsh Lane NR until at least 30th GPR with subsequent records of the same bird on August 2nd and 5th.

Great White Egret Ardea alba Very rare vagrant (6/10).

2003 Addendum Staffs A long-staying bird at Blithfield on August 3rd-4th and September 9th-October 8th was the third county record and not the second as stated in the 2003 Report. W Mid One at Ryders Hayes Mere on August 23rd LB, CM, JAS. This is the second county record.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 4 5 5 6 7 7122014121414 Coombe 29 37 – 153 159 147 105 51 29 16 9 – Salford Priors GP – – – – – 4 5 19 24 27 17 9 Bittell 7147516––104–74 Bredonʼs Hardwick 10 2 – – – – 1 2 – 1 3 7 Grimley New Workings – – – 3 1 1 – 1 1 – 2 – Gwen Finch 23–––222–222 Upton Warren 4433126443332 Westwood 324326355221 Aqualate 3 2 3 – 7 2 – 2 6 6 – 1 Barton GP 14 23 12 5 11 7 4 15 9 6 16 17 River Sow Meadows64–6–––666–– Blithfield 4 1 1 11 6 7 22 8 7 – – – Chillington 10 10 8 2 – 1 4 6 4 7 7 8 Copmere 324–11–33482 Croxall GP 8 6 1 4 3 5 6 6 10 27 5 17 Denstone Hall 7 – – – – – – 3 6 15 – 8 Doxey Marshes 10 12 11 5 9 7 7 16 13 9 11 9 Elford 41–253355222 Gailey – – – 21 34 21 12 8 – – 2 3 Hill Ridware 5 8 1 5 5 5 7 5 7 10 6 5 Kings Bromley 5 6 5 3 4 4 8 11 3 5 7 8 Tittesworth –11–4––753223 Marsh Lane NR 112362662412 Smestow Valley 322266745532 Stubbers Green 1 – – – 1 2 4 – 2 – 1 1 Warks Our largest heronry at Coombe Abbey had 57 occupied nests (cf. 61 in 2003), a slight reduction probably due to storm damage in early spring. Counts of active nests at other regular heronries were: Charlecote Park (26/27), Chesterton Wood (three), Sweet Knowle, Preston-on-Stour (three) and Warwick Park (nine, producing 18 young). The ancient Ragley Park heronry was also active, but now probably below ten nests. No

55 information came from Baddesley Clinton, Grendon and Middleton Hall, although the first named is reported to be on the verge of disappearing. The site at Wormleighton Res. (three in 2003) was abandoned, but by way of compensation two nests at Umberslade and one at Compton Wynyates, were in new localities. There were also single nests at Draycote and Wootton Wawen, which were the first since 1996 and 2000 respectively at these formerly regular breeding sites. Away from the regular heronries, other site maxima included up to ten at Draycote during the year and 15 at Abbots Salford on August 15th. Worcs Breeding colonies remained stable in the county, with similar counts to 2003. Fourteen pairs nested at Bittell Reservoir, 25 at Grimley and 26 at Severn Stoke. Strensham Lagoons held three on May 16th and five on June 27th and birds also recorded at Broadway Gravel Pit, Clifton Pits, Kinsham Lake, Oddingley, Ryall Pits, Shernal Green, Tibberton and Trimpley Reservoir. Staffs For the first time in a number of years the nest count total has fallen, this year 440-454 compared to last years record count of 470-476. The site nest counts for this year were; Aqualate (43), Bagots Wood (57), Cannock Chase (one), Castle Mere (14-16), Checkhill Bog (4-6), Churnet Valley (14), Cowhay Nature Reserve (18-20), Drayton Bassett Pits (two), Enville Hall (40-44), Gailey Lower Pool (48-49), Hazelstrine (22-25), Lichfield (nine), Pendeford Mill NR (46), Tamworth (84), Tittesworth (two) and Trentham Gardens (36). W Mid Eighteen nests were counted at the Sandwell Valley heronry. Regularly recorded from Olton Mere throughout the year with peaks of 10 and 12 in November. Five were in a field adjacent to Whites Wood (at Turls Hill) in July. 39 was the peak count from Sandwell Valley. Noted throughout the year at Bowmans Harbour and Sutton Park (peak of five). Also reported on Dunstall Park Lake (a peak count of six) and at Mons Hill.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Rare vagrant; escapes from collections occur (7/10). Warks An increase in sightings, but whether any of these reports refer to wild birds is subject to debate. Two un-ringed birds were filmed in flooded meadows at Bedworth Nook on March 22nd-23rd, and one stayed here until at least 26th JH et al. Single birds were seen several times in flight during this period over the Bedworth and Nuneaton area NDBC. Possibly the same couple were reported from a ditch at Hurley on April 10th per pager. Later in the year a confiding bird, no doubt of captive origin, was feeding on fields in the Maxstoke area from September 21st until December 31st NPB, HGr, RJK et al, while no fewer than three together were in a ploughed field at Churchover on December 30th ER.

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor (9/10). Two 19th century breeding records. Warks A single bird was seen at Moreton Morrell on May 7th and June 28th GRJD, and an adult male over Ufton Wood on June 15th JJB. These two sites are both close to the Fosse Way only nine kilometres apart, so conceivably the three records could relate to a single summering bird. In the Tame Valley, an adult male was mobbed by Western Jackdaws over Whitacre Heath on May 9th LWi. Worcs A dark-phased individual was seen flying from the Educational Reserve and low over the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on May 28th TMH and was relocated briefly the following day over Stoke Prior GG. A few hours later it was observed again, circling the northern corner of the Moors Pools, then drifted back towards Stoke Prior AW.

56 Staffs One flew south over Chasewater, being mobbed by a Carrion Crow on June 10th GW. This is a first record for Chasewater. One was seen flying over Blithfield on September 4th PJon, PL and another over Stoke-on-Trent on September 9th PJon. W Mid One flew over the Holbrooks area of Coventry on June 8th CH.

Black Kite Milvus migrans Very rare vagrant (1/10). W Mid One passed north-east through Marsh Lane NR on April 16th MF, CH – this is the second record for the West Midlands County following a bird noted ‘just down the road’ in Balsall Common in 1998 and the fourth for the Region.

Red Kite Milvus milvus Uncommon and increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th Century. Warks A similar total to last year, although as the County Recorder managed seven sightings during the year in the under-watched south of the county, it is probable that many more went unrecorded! The first was an immature bird drifting north over Lighthorne Quarry on February 19th JJB, followed by a bird which was filmed near Walton Wood on March 5th BWh. Single adults were then seen flying north-west at Fenny Compton on March 27th JJB, feeding on the Burton Dassett Hills on April 12th JJB, flying east at Brandon also on 12th GPR and over Ettington on 15th KHi. A subadult was seen circling over a field by the M6 at Keresley on May 29th CSm, KWi, while on the same day one was seen at DMC Kineton PD. Further sightings in the latter district at nearby Tysoe on June 9th MJL and at Oxhill on July 1st JJB may perhaps have involved the same bird. One flew high over Brandon during a guided walk at the Bird Fair on June 6th BMCG, while another was seen gliding eastwards towards the county boundary at Wormleighton on July 13th MGW, and a juvenile was at nearby Fenny Compton on August 16th JJB. A bird seen leaving a roost site soon after dawn at Itchington Holt on September 12th JJB, was seen again there that afternoon GJM. Finally, a first-winter bird circling north over Napton Res. on November 12th JJB with perhaps the same bird at Draycote on December 2nd DL, may have been related to reports of a bird said to be over-wintering on the Shuckburgh Park estate. Worcs Singles were recorded over Great Malvern SK and Wassell Grove Pools CR on March 16th, Grafton Flyford on April 12th SMW, Gwen Finch Wetland on 25th SMW, Upton Warren on May 30th AW, DRW, Broadway on June 15th MET, Upton Warren on 16th GG, Birlingham on 19th BW and one at Ashton-under-Hill on 31st and July 3rd RU. Staffs One seen at Chartley Hall on January 25th, February 1st, 2nd, 13th and 22nd and at Moor Leys Farm, also on February 22nd was the same bird with a red tag on its left wing and another on the right with “20” on it GJM, MJI, RCB. One at Blithfield on March 21st was seen being mobbed by corvids WJL, ESC and an untagged bird was seen at Little Wyrley on May 29th CB. A wing-tagged bird flew over Keele on June 6th MSu. W Mid One drifted over Marsh Lane NR on March 19th while one at Fen End on June 7th was mobbed by a Common Buzzard before drifting off towards Temple Balsall BLK. Another was noted flying north over Birmingham City Football Ground towards the city centre being mobbed by three Herring Gulls BDM. One drifted north-west over Bradnock’s Marsh on July 30th CH.

2002 Addendum W Mid One drifted over Marsh Lane NR on August 15th REH.

57 2003 Addendum Warks A single bird over Easenhall on June 1st CHe was no doubt the bird seen on the same day at nearby Pailton.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce passage migrant. Warks The only real spring migrant to be reported flew north-east over Brandon on April 12th CHP. There followed an intriguing cluster of summer records from a relatively small area of the south-east, beginning with an immature male at Priors Hardwick on May 27th JJB. An adult male was then seen at Fenny Compton on July 5th JJB and a female at Priors Hardwick on 30th MJA. In August, a female or juvenile was at Wormleighton Res. on 25th per JJB, with single “cream-crowns” observed on a number of dates hunting over stubbles and set-asides in the Hodnell, Lower Radbourn and Priors Hardwick area during the period August 26th-September 11th, but with two together (apparently a female and juvenile) on August 28th MJA, JJB, MJL. A juvenile at Fenny Compton on August 31st JJB was probably one of these birds. Elsewhere in the county, an adult female was at Alvecote on August 22nd RLS, and two “cream-crowns” flew leisurely westwards over Hampton-on- the-Hill on 29th JJB. The last record of the year concerned a late female or immature at Brandon on October 12th JMR et al. Worcs Two spring passage birds were recorded; both at Upton Warren. A female flew over Stoke Prior, viewed from the Moors Pool on May 1st AW, DAJ, DRW and a first- summer male was seen at the Flash Pools, late morning and afternoon on 11th AFJ, TMH. One autumn bird was reported; an immature at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 25th MJI. Staffs A female at Handsacre on April 20th GH was followed by another north over Aqualate on April 25th FCG, another at Belvide on May 18th SN, a first-summer male at Gunstone on June 6th SN, a male at Norbury Park on July 13th MG, a juvenile at Belvide on August 1st SN, another on 12th IB and at Whitemoor Haye on 11th EPH, a female flew north at Doxey on August 25th IN. Finally, what was probably the same female was seen at Aqualate on December 10th ESC and 18th PJor. W Mid One, thought by the observer to be an immature male, flew over an oilseed rape field in the Temple Balsall/Fen End area on May 21st BLK. A juvenile flew south through Marsh Lane NR on August 8th.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in Staffs in 1974-5 and 1979. Warks An excellent year, with five birds recorded. During the first quarter, a female flew east over Brandon on February 15th BMCG, and a ringtail was watched mobbed by a crow at Rye Farm, Wishaw on April 12th BLK. Autumn sightings began with a ringtail at Brandon on October 10th BMCG. At Priors Hardwick, a female and juvenile were present from October 26th-November 2nd, with the latter staying to at least 5th MJA, JJB et al. Both birds were roosting during this period in a rough set-aside, together with several Short-eared Owls. Staffs A female flew over Park Hall CP on February 29th DK. An immature was seen at Drayton Bassett Pits on October 16th GJM, another at Cuckoo Bank on October 17th NS, PW, GE, one at Anson’s Bank on November 6th-7th GJM while a first-winter male at Aqualate was seen coming into roost regularly from December 4th until the year end many obs.

58 Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant. Has bred. (6/10).

1992 Addendum Staffs A female ringtail was seen at Blithfield on May 17th GJM.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. Warks Birds were reported from one traditional locality in the north of the county during the breeding season. A female flew north near Brailes on March 26th JJB. Worcs No breeding data received this year, but a pair was noted in the early spring at a traditional nesting locality, north of the county SMW, AW et al. A male was seen at Shatterford Wood on February 7th AW, one at Hollybush Quarry on March 16th MWCW, one at Chase End Hill on April 12th and 23rd MWCW, one at Suckley Hills on July 13th MAS and a female at Trimpley Reservoir on October 8th GJM. Staffs Records of possible, but unconfirmed, breeding came from four sites. Females at Coldmeece on February 8th NDP and Doxey on August 30th MDB were the only other records submitted.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote, Avon Dassett, Baddesley Clinton, Birchmoor, Brailes, Bramcote Hall, Chesterton Wood, Compton Verney, DMC Kineton, Earlswood, Fenny Compton, Leamington Spa, Napton Hill, Nuneaton, Priors Marston, Ufton Wood, Upper Shuckburgh (three), Warmington and Wormleighton Res. There were counts of four together at Farnborough Park on January 24th, Brandon on April 6th and Wormleighton Res. on August 31st. There were a number of reports of birds taking Common Snipe at Ladywalk during the autumn and early winter. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Bodenham Arboretum, Tibberton and Upton Warren. A common resident throughout the county, being reported in most habitats, including woodland, wetlands and gardens. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide, Doxey and Gib Torr where two fledglings were recorded. They also probably bred at Hanchurch Woods, Kibblestone and Stone, with records from a further 15 sites during the breeding season. Records came from 40 additional sites outside the breeding season with from four to six regularly present at Aqualate in November and December being attracted by the large Starling roost. W Mid Breeding season records came from Aldridge (several localities), Barr Beacon, Bills Wood Meriden, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), in Sandwell Valley, Shirley, Siden Hill Wood (at Marsh Lane NR), Smestow Valley (four pairs), Turls Hill and Whites Wood. Also reported from Dorridge and Lightwoods Park. Obviously under-recorded. On 14th March a male caught the first returning Sand Martin of the year at Marsh Lane NR, less than 30 minutes after its arrival on site!

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Many nests were reported from all parts of the county, including increasing numbers in mature hedgerow trees. One found in a roadside shelter belt near Brailes was

59 less than 80m from an occupied Eurasian Sparrowhawk’s nest. Groups of up to nine were frequent, with maxima of 16 over the Shuckburgh Hills on March 9th, ten at Fenny Compton on 27th, ten at Spernall Park on April 20th, ten over Bannam’s Wood and 13 between Astley and Fillongley on June 6th, 11 at Salford Priors GP on September 19th and 13 at Priors Hardwick on October 26th. A group of ten found sitting in a stubble field at Fenny Compton on September 7th were watched hunting rodents on the ground which were being disturbed by baling activities. Worcs Though nesting pairs were almost certainly under recorded, breeding was confirmed at Bredicot, Broadway (two pairs), Dowles Brook (three territories held), Gwen Finch Wetland, Shoots Hill, Smite, Trench Wood, Upton Warren and Wood Norton. Seen throughout the year at over 100 localities, with the best group counts being 15 on Bredon Hill, seven on Broadway Hill, eight at Eymore Wood, seven on Fish Hill, seven at Nafford, 10 at Hewell Grange, 12 at Sheriff’s Lench, 10 at Upton Warren and 12 at Wood Norton. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Alton, Baswich, Common Buzzard, Terry Davies Fisherwick, Gospel Ash, Ingestre (two pairs), Keele University (two pairs), Little Aston and Little Stoke (two pairs). The nest at Baswich was occasionally attended by three adults! Highest counts were received from Hanchurch Woods with 25 on February 15th, 15 on March 7th and 13 on March 13th. Elsewhere 10 were present at Blithfield on February 7th, nine at Aqualate on March 21st, 9 at Essington Quarry Pools on April 12th, eight at Blithfield on 13th, 12 at Branston WP on 20th, 12 at Belvide and eight at Blithfield during August, 13 at Belvide during September, 15 at Gailey on September 19th and eight at Lower Hatton on November 18th. W Mid The spread of this species continues and shows no sign of abating. Breeding season records were received from Aldridge Golf Course, Balsall Common, Bartley/ Frankley area, Catherine-de-Barnes, Cheswick Green area, Cuckoo’s Nook, Lutley Wedge, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Norton Lane (in the Earlswood area on the County boundary with Warwickshire), Sandwell Valley (seven circling together being the peak count), Siden Hill Wood (probably bred), Smestow Valley (bred successfully) and White’s Wood. Records were additionally received from a further 11 localities outside of the breeding season. At least 10 birds were noted circling together over Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley on April 13th, whilst eight over Marsh Lane NR in May was the highest monthly count for the site.

60 Osprey Pandion haliaetus Uncommon passage migrant. Warks Thirteen records was another good showing, mainly concerning brief transients but with one long-staying autumn bird. The earliest spring sighting was of one flying north-north-west over the M42 at Kingsbury on March 26th KWi, with further birds at Draycote on April 3rd DL and moving north over Whitacre Heath mobbed by Jackdaws on 6th KWi. A bird which flew over Avon Dassett on April 9th MJL, was probably the one seen later that day over the A46 at Warwick CHe, while there was also a sighting at Coombe Abbey on 12th PEH. Two mid-summer records were interesting: a bird seen carrying a fish at Priors Hardwick on May 27th JJB had spent several days fishing at nearby Boddington Res. (Northants), while another flew along the escarpment of Long Itchington Wood on June 17th JJB, departing north-east. Autumn birds were seen at Brandon on September 5th CHP, in the Hodnell and Lower Radbourn area on 6th JJB, MJL, and at Draycote on 26th RCM. In addition a bird made an extended stay at Alvecote, with regular sightings from September 6th-October 4th RLS et al, and with some claims of two separate birds being involved although never together. A late bird at Alvecote on October 16th RLS, was the last of the year. Worcs A good spring passage of birds recorded with the first seen heading north along the Malvern Hills on March 30th SK. One visited Upton Warren on April 16th SMW and three sighting made here the following day were believed to involve two individuals DRW et al. Another flew over the Wyre Forest on May 1st TS, one was at Astwood Fisheries on 30th PA and one over the M5 near Upton Warren on June 4th EP. Staffs The bulk of this year’s sightings came from Blithfield with spring birds being seen on April 1st, 4th and May 30th MPR. Then, from June 12th until September 19th, what was probably the same bird was seen most days MY et al with another joining it briefly on September 3rd ESC. Elsewhere, singles were at Whitemoor Haye on April 11th JG, MSq, Westport on 13th WJL, Belvide on 3rd SN, 17th HJM, SN and August 31st SN and Yoxall on July 28th BCG. W Mid One flew over Smestow Valley on March 29th while one circled Darby’s Hill for some five minutes before leaving to the east ICW. One was seen mid-morning over Meriden per NPB and, possibly the same bird, was later seen flying from Marsh Lane NR south over Berkswell Woods per NPB.

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Billesley, Brailes (two), Bramcote Hall, Brandon, Chapel Ascote, Fenny Compton, Hunningham, Knightcote, Ladywalk, Pillerton Hersey, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston (two), Salford Priors GP (two in vicinity), Snowford and Wormleighton Res. Most of the described nest sites were in hollow trees or nest boxes, but the last named was in a disused Magpie’s nest. Good numbers were reported from several parts of the county. In the Tame Valley, up to eight were hunting over fields at Shustoke during February and up to six were at Kingsbury WP during the autumn. Seven were feeding in just two small hay meadows at Fenny Compton on August 16th; while consistently high numbers were again hunting over set- aside and pasture fields at Priors Hardwick during late summer through to early winter, with a peak of ten counted on August 30th. Worcs Pairs bred successfully at Tibberton and Barbourne and two recently fledged young noted at Abberton, were the only breeding records received. Common across the

61 county, with numerous sightings reported, including a count of seven birds between Dumdleton and Broadway on February 27th. Staffs Breeding reports came from Belvide (three pairs), Chatterley Whitfield, Doxey (two juveniles), Elford Park Farm and Gib Torr (two juveniles). A further eight sites had birds present during the breeding season, including four at Ipstones on 11th July. Notable counts came from Cuckoo Bank where there were five during March and four during August and from Silverdale Colliery with five on August 29th. W Mid Breeding season records came from Aldridge, Bartley, Birmingham (several localities including Stratford Road), Dunstall Park (two young fledged), Harborne, Harborne NR, near Marsh Lane NR, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Sandwell Valley (at least three pairs), Streetley, West Bromwich and White’s Wood. A pair was also noted in Smestow Valley but was not thought to have bred. This, like Eurasian Sparrowhawk, is seriously under-recorded as a breeding species.

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus Very rare vagrant (3/10).

2002 Addendum Staffs One at Essington Quarry Pools 27th July was the third county record and the sixth for the Region IC.

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon winter visitor. Rare breeding species on the northern moors. Warks Most sightings during the early months referred to January, but the over-wintering bird at Coombe Abbey remained until at least February 22nd. An adult male and female were seen on various dates in the Wishaw area during January 1st-21st, and there were singles at both Ensors Pool, Nuneaton and at Draycote (a female) on 27th. Further south, there was an immature male at DMC Kineton on January 6th, with probably the same female at both Moreton Morrell on 12th and at nearby Ashorne on 20th. Possibly the same female was hunting in the Charlecote/Wasperton area on January 15th, with an immature male there on 24th. Later sightings probably involved passage migrants; with singles at Ladywalk on March 10th and Dunchurch on 28th, and a final female near the junction of the M40 and M42 near Umberslade on April 19th. A single bird at Hill Wootton on August 9th ANR, was very early and equals the date of the previous earliest county record, set in 1959. After a female near Bentley on September 6th and an adult male at Wishaw on 16th, the Tame Valley did much better than in recent years. Two were seen at Kingsbury WP on September 29th, with one there on October 6th. Singles visited Ladywalk on October 28th and November 19th, with two and perhaps three different birds again at Kingsbury on 24th and one on 27th. In December, there were single females at Whitacre Heath on 2nd and Kingsbury on 8th, with an immature male at Middleton on 11th. A single bird was also seen at Alvecote on November 13th, while a male was reported from Draycote on October 23rd and November 19th. Further south, a young female was seen at Fenny Compton on September 27th and another female at Wasperton on 29th, which probably went on to over- winter in the area, as a female was seen again there on November 23rd and December 9th. An adult male was roosting at Priors Hardwick on November 1st and 4th, with probably the same bird at Fenny Compton on 27th, while another adult male was seen at Abbots Salford on November 14th and a female at Ladbroke on December 27th. Worcs During the first winter period females were at Abberley Hills and Hinton-on-the- Green on January 1st, a male at Wickhamford on 8th, one along Hanbury Road, Droitwich

62 on 10th, a male at Leigh Sinton on 18th, one at Pershore on 19th and a male at Lower Moor on 28th. A single male frequented Westwood Park on February 7th, 8th, March 18th and 28th-30th, singles were observed at Broadway on February 13th, Powick Ham on 14th and Tibberton on 22nd, a male along Old Road South, Kempsey on March 4th and a female at Gwen Finch Wetland on 17th. Clifton Village held one on March 21st, Lower Moor one on 24th, Grimley New Workings one on April 5th and Lower Bittell Reservoir one on 8th. A female at Throckmorton Tip on September 23rd was the only autumn record, then second winter period sightings were of a female again at Throckmorton Tip on November 1st and 3rd, a male on 4th and one on 13th, a male at Westwood Park on 10th, a male at Grimley Old workings and one at Holt Prairies on 14th and a female at Westwood Park on 16th. Lower Moor held a female on November 28th, one was at Kinsham Lake on December 12th, one at Kempsey Sewage Works on 28th, a male at Fish Hill and one at Hinton-on-the-Green on 30th. Staffs A pair may have bred in the county. In the first winter period a male and female were occasionally seen at Whitemoor Haye from January through to April 13th. Elsewhere, records include a female at Branston GP on January 1st and Cuckoo Bank on 9th, a male at Chartley Castle on 27th, a male at Revidge on February 1st, a male at Colton on 2nd and Coombes Valley on 6th, Croxall GP on 11th, a female at Revidge on 15th, a female at Wolseley Bridge on March 6th, Blithfield on 28th, Ingestre on April 2nd and a female at Blithfield on 4th. In the second winter period an immature/female was present at Belvide on August 8th and September 18th, with a female recorded on November 21st and a male on December 12th. One bird attacked the starling roost at Aqualate on November 3rd with further sightings on December 5th, 19th and 25th. Elsewhere, singles were at the River Sow meadows at Baswich on September 18th, Whitemoor Haye on November 12th and 27th, Doxey on 14th, Cuckoo Bank on 26th, a male at the Glacial Boulder (Cannock Chase), chasing Redwings on December 18th, the National Memorial Arboretum on 22nd, Wolseley Bridge on 26th and a female at Blithfield on the same date. W Mid A comprehensive set of records come from the Wishaw Lane/Wiggins Hill Road area of Minworth courtesy of the efforts of a single observer AH. A female was noted on January 2nd, 3rd and 15th, with a male present on March 9th. One flew in a south-westerly direction over Smestow Valley on January 17th. One flew through Marsh Lane NR on April 16th. In the autumn/second-winter period, a male was noted on September 16th, 20th, with a female/immature on October 16th and a female on October 30th.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon, but increasing, summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: April 22nd (37) to October 6th (40). The first bird was seen at Shustoke on April 20th with records from all parts by the end of the month. The last bird was seen at Wormleighton Res. on the late date of October 22nd. Warks It was an excellent year, with a record 21 breeding pairs located across the county, and judging from casual records the total population must have been at least around 35-40 pairs. Nine monitored nests fledged at least 15 young. Sightings increased in several parts of the county, particularly at Brandon where birds were seen on 80 dates compared to a then record 54 in 2003. There were many more October reports than usual, mainly during the first week. Amongst these were up to three at Brandon from October 1st-7th, with one staying to 11th; one at Ladywalk on 14th, and a very late juvenile at Wormleighton Res. on 22nd. Worcs A pair bred successfully in the south of the county and three young were fledged. Three juveniles, plus two adults were observed at Gwen Finch Wetland in early September

63 and single juveniles were recorded at Broadway, Grimley New Workings and Throck morton Tip also during September. The first returning bird was noted at Grimley New Workings on April 23rd, then other sightings throughout the summer came from Abberton, Bishampton Vale pool, Bredon Hill, Bredon’s Hardwick, Brotheridge Green, Castlemorton Common, Cofton Court, Evesham, Fish Hill, Hanley Swan, Kinsham Lake, Lodge Hill Farm (three on May 2nd), Lower Moor, Midsummer Hill, Moorgreen Hall, Ryall Pits, Sheriff’s Lench, Stoke Bliss, Strensham Lagoons, Trimpley Reservoir, Upper Bittell Reservoir, Upper Welland, Upton Warren (four on May 1st and 29th, three on September 9th), Westwood Pool (four on September 14th) and Wiseman’s Scrape. The final records for the year came from Wickhamford, with one noted on October 9th and one was at Broadway on 13th. Staffs The first returning bird was reported from Belvide on April 22nd, with further April sightings coming from Knotbury on 23rd, Sherbrook Valley on 24th, Swallow Moss on 26th, Handsacre on 27th, Whitemoor Haye and Pool Hall Fisheries on 28th, Gailey on 29th and Blithfield on 30th. The birds on 27th and 28th were all seen to successfully catch hirundines. No confirmed breeding records were received this year but with reports from 26 widespread localities during June and July, some breeding must surely have taken place. The most seen at once were four at Drayton Bassett Pits on September 9th. Autumn sightings were almost on a daily basis with late September records coming from Belvide (two) on 20th, Doxey on 20th-21st, Fisherwick/Elford GP on 21st, Blithfield, Branston GP and Newbold Quarry on 22nd, Belvide on 23rd, Ingestre and Tixall (perhaps the same bird) on 24th, Belvide on 25th, Aqualate (two) and Belvide on 28th and finally Branston WP (two) on 29th. W Mid Two pairs successfully bred at two localities in the county. Pairs/birds were present at three other locations during the breeding season and possibly/probably bred. Elsewhere noted at Walsall cricket club on May 15th and 22nd while one chased martins over Dunstall Park on May 28th and 30th. One flew over Smestow Valley on June 10th and up to two were noted regularly at Marsh Lane NR in September. One flew over Lutley Wedge on September 3rd and one was at Ryders Hayes Mere on September 4th and 12th.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Warks A pair bred in the quarry site occupied since 2001, but it was again not reported how many young fledged. Records continue to increase across the county, with birds occurring in all months and in at least 50 localities this year, many of which consisted of regular sightings. Birds were regularly roosting in both Rugby and Warwick town centres. Worcs Pairs bred at two localities in the county, but another traditional breeding site held only the male bird. Presumably the female died during the winter months and the male failed to attract a new mate. Another pair held territory on Worcester Cathedral and an adult female remained at Upton Warren throughout the year. During the non-breeding season birds reported from 38 localities. Staffs Successfully bred at three sites this year, failed at another and the outcome unknown at two others. Birds were reported throughout the year with records from 41 localities. The table below shows the total number of reports/total number of sites for each month, demonstrating the upturn in fortunes for this bird over recent years.

JFMAMJJASOND 2004 16/11 19/8 26/10 12/7 8/7 8/3 7/5 19/8 28/8 14/8 10/7 27/13 2003 11/7 6/4 10/7 12/8 3/3 6/5 14/6 32/6 26/5 21/7 17/7 21/5 2000 8/5 7/4 6/4 7/5 2/2 1/1 1/1 15/5 22/6 10/3 5/4 4/2

64 In the autumn, immature birds were seen at Blithfield, Branston GP, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Hanchurch Woods and Tittesworth. W Mid Pairs were reported in the breeding season from the BT Tower in central Birmingham and two other locations within the county – although breeding success is not known. Up to two birds were frequent in the Castle Bromwich area from July until November. At Marsh Lane NR, noted on two dates in January, March 14th, June 30th, three dates in August, four in September, October 5th and four dates in December. A female was noted at Minworth STW on January 18th, with further birds noted and in the adjacent Wiggins Hill Lane area of Minworth on January 24th and 31st, and February 20th, with an immature also in this area on February 6th, April 17th, June 25th (a pair) and August 22nd. A pair circled Dunstall Park on March 7th and one flew over Smestow Valley on April 19th. A female caught a pigeon there on August 29th with a final sighting of a bird on November 29th. One was seen in Small Heath on October 1st and another was noted at Clayhanger Marsh on the 3rd.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident. Warks Breeding was confirmed this year at two localities, with young seen at Brandon (no count, but four-six pairs have been estimated here in recent years) and Salford Priors GP (first time here). It may also have bred at Ladywalk, where a juvenile was seen in August. Probable breeding pairs were additionally present at Coombe Abbey (two), Napton Res. (two) and near Offchurch (one, at a new location); while April sightings at Alvecote, Middleton Hall Pool and Wormleighton Res. came from sites where breeding has previously occurred. Much more widespread as usual outside the breeding season, with a notable peak in November including maxima of four at Wormleighton Res. on 8th and nine at both Ladywalk on 11th and Brandon on 23rd. Away from probable breeding sites, one or two (often regularly) were also reported at: Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Coton, Dosthill, Draycote, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Guy’s Cliffe (River Avon), Kingsbury, Newbold Comyn, Packington and Seeswood Pool. Worcs Reported during the breeding season at Oakley Pool and Upton Warren, where a juvenile was seen at the Flash Pool in early September. Away from the tabulated sites, first winter period observations were of one at Abberton on January 6th, one at Trimpley Reservoir on 24th, three at Oakley Pool on February 19th and three at Lower Moor on March 8th. Autumn birds reported from Strensham Lagoons on August 8th and Grimley Old Workings on 31st and September 10th (two). During the second winter period singles were at Kinsham Lake on September 28th and October 17th and Lower Moor on 30th. The latter location also held two in November and four in December. Six+ were recorded at Grimley Old Workings in November, as were two on the New Workings, two were at Strensham Lagoons on November 7th, two at Bishampton Vale Pool on 11th, then three there on 13th, two at Bittell Reservoirs on 12th and 20th, two at Kyre Pool on 25th and several at Oakley Pool on December 9th. Staffs Breeding was reported from Aqualate Mere where at least three pairs were confirmed, and from Doxey Marshes where the annual breeding survey for the species revealed a total of 27 pairs, slightly up from 2003. Other sites holding birds in the summer months included Belvide and Branston Water Park and Gravel Pit, and Gailey, where a single was noted on August 22nd. In the first winter period small numbers were widely reported including Astonefields (four on February 29th), Baggeridge, Belvide, Clay Mills SW, Copmere, Drayton Bassett pits, Wolseley Bridge and Westport Lake. During the

65 second winter period Doxey was again the site where the species was most often noted with 11 seen on October 17th and 12 present on November 14th. Belvide weighed in with one in early August, two on September 27th, three on November 7th and peaked at four on the 27th. Other sites holding small numbers included Aqualate, Astonefields, Blithfield, Branston WP and GP, Clay Mills, and Consall CP where a single was noted on the stream leading into the River Churnet at Dale Sprink (Consall CP) on November 13th. W Mid May, July and August records came from Sandwell Valley indicating possible breeding. In the first winter period, up to three at Marsh Lane NR and five was the peak count in Sandwell Valley. Noted from along the Cole Valley (Scribers Lane) in November and December. In the second winter period, a minimum of four were reported from Marsh Lane NR from September 17th, and at least 10 were counted in Sandwell Valley. Also recorded in November from Blythe Valley CP, and Olton Mere.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (9/10). Has bred. Worcs A juvenile bird was discovered feeding along the back channel at Gwen Finch Wetland on August 2nd JH et al and remained on site until at least the 20th. Spotted Crake, Gwen Finch, Andy Warr

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell 5544–––3528–1611 Bredonʼs Hardwick 1312–1311423 Grimley New Workings – – – 15 16 15 15 6 10 14 18 28 Gwen Finch 4 4 7 3 4 2 10 8 6 3 9 6 Kinsham 2887664688665 Pirton Pool 8 9 9 7 10 13 14 13 15 18 15 9 Upton Warren 15 20 20 15 8 12 10 10 28 19 12 12 Westwood 5657581428522124 Barton GP 18 13 9 9 6 8 7 23 14 14 20 21 Blithfield Reservoir 2 1 1 1 – – 8 1 3 – – – Borrowpit Lake – 7 5 4 – – – 5 5 – 7 – Branston WP 2 2 – 2 – 1 – – 3 1 3 3 Chasewater Reservoir 14 10 6 – 5 – – – – 6 – – Chillington 5 7 11 8 7 4 7 7 7 7 5 7 Croxall GP 4 4 8 4 4 2 2 3 5 2 2 2 Doxey Marshes 10 16 14 16 62 24 17 13 17 14 20 18 Hill Ridware 7 12 8 3 6 17 25 8 37 27 12 12 Kettlebrook Lakes 19 19 14 16 21 – 20 21 19 18 23 24 Kings Bromley 2 3 3 2 – 4 3 3 9 2 9 13 Rocester 2662221–1222 Westport Lake 18 7 17 7 11 3 7 5 13 – – –

66 Warks Still common, but with no large concentrations reported. Counts of around 20- 26 came from Brandon, Charlecote GP, Coombe Abbey, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Kingsbury (Cliff Pool), Ladywalk, Napton Res. and Salford Priors GP, mainly during the autumn and early winter. Worcs Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum, four broods were noted at Grimley New Workings and six pairs bred at Tibberton. Breeding pairs also reported from Oakley Pool, Ryall Pits and Upton Warren. Staffs Widely reported as a breeding species with new sites including Beffcote, Crump - wood, Norbury Manor, Sugnall and Weston Jones Mill. The Doxey Marshes breeding survey provided the most comprehensive data available in the county and this revealed a total of 31 pairs, a considerable increase over the 18 noted in 2003. Kettlebrook Lake held four pairs which produced four, four, three and two young to fledging. No usually high counts were made for this species outside the breeding season. W Mid Breeding reported from Dunstall Park Lake (three pairs), Marsh Lane NR (at least eight pairs), Rocket Pool (in Bradley), Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Steelpark Way in Wednesfield, Sutton Park. 17 counted at Stubbers Green on January 31st. One was seen in a Norton Lane (Earlswood) back garden on February 18th. Also reported from Blythe Valley CP and Dunstall Park.

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

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe 54 16 – 20 31 22 27 56 42 41 65 – Draycote 630 553 193 76 42 155 356 616 614 685 507 600 Kingsbury – – – – – – – – 270 260 390 350 Napton Res. 185 225 170 66 – – – 71 75 100 105 37 Salford Priors GP – – – – – – 80 85 88 100 93 77 Shustoke 156 145 130 42 – – – 515 685 379 128 116 Bittell 34 29 33 24 – – – 71 85 – 73 51 Bredonʼs Hardwick 43 48 16 4 – 10 5 24 32 20 24 35 Grimley New Workings – – – 41 47 55 66 115 190 178 162 158 Kinsham 187 189 60 36 23 62 102 115 149 174 135 175 Pirton Pool 91 93 85 62 57 91 178 224 69 112 178 197 Upton Warren 356 366 111 70 50 92 170 178 345 395 330 220 Westwood 31 42 71 43 66 145 215 139 126 145 112 23 Aqualate 26 107 61 62 53 101 – 127 180 56 33 25 Barton GP 242 214 141 132 114 127 293 331 268 239 246 249 Belvide Res. 152 241 – – 171 393 723 946 1010 92 112 200 Blithfield Reservoir 224 383 212 145 251 588 1337 1611 957 – – – Branston Gravel Pit 51 16 18 12 22 – 54 160 17 6 18 29 Branston Water Park 22 18 21 5 8 14 24 46 43 111 128 78 Brookleys Lake 62 24 20 – 3 18 – – 45 61 – – Chasewater Reservoir 667 269 233 – 73 226 335 441 428 253 445 648 Chillington 78 74 72 52 22 39 69 80 80 90 90 80 Coldmeece Pools 300 188 37 – – – – 134 156 – 116 132 Copmere 4 6 6 7 11 70 100 121 47 27 16 22 Croxall GP 64 98 81 48 47 78 115 185 184 104 117 87 Dosthill GP 270 103 60 – – – – – – – 206 149 Doxey Marshes 234030345612313627151211 Fisherwick 10 35 18 24 3 22 30 – 7 – – – Fisherwick/Elford GP 37 28 28 9 6 1 6 6 7 – – – Gailey – – – 42 53 103 200 172 – – 542 242

67 JFMAMJ JASOND Hill Ridware 25 55 40 40 48 115 160 131 192 73 38 29 Kettlebrook Lakes 36 41 40 33 36 – 38 42 44 45 53 54 Kings Bromley 53 25 24 24 11 6 11 22 28 50 80 45 River Tame, Tamworth – 8 14 11 – – – 13 14 – 10 – Rocester 42 38 25 10 8 7 15 – 10 18 14 6 Westport Lake 692933151532399082– – – Whitemoor Haye – – – – 16 13 37 109 355 445 334 471 Marsh Lane NR 71 57 53 25 – – 83 117 – 169 88 93 Sandwell Valley 160 118 90 87 40 64 77 102 116 107 216 174 Sutton Park 65 48 45 30 – – – – – 66 64 97 WeBS 2003 3624 2276 1876 1257 1054 1907 3557 4314 3100 3519 3011 3360 WeBS 2004 3180 2453 1650 1089 1141 2278 4258 5529 4297 2487 3363 2896

Warks Counts of breeding pairs came from: Charlecote GP (eight), Draycote (nine), Lighthorne Pools (five), Salford Priors GP (at least 12), Stoneton Moat (six) and Temple Pool, Upton (six). A nest with six eggs was seen at Kingsbury on the early date of March 13th. A considerable decline seems to have recently taken place in the Tame Valley, where counts at two former major wintering sites could manage only 180 at Dosthill on January 25th and 159 at Coton on November 29th. The only other three figure count from a non- tabulated site was 150 at Abbots Salford on January 21st, while other site maxima included 85 at Alvecote, 62 at Brandon, 45 at Compton Verney and 42 at Ladywalk. Worcs Five pairs bred at Bishampton Vale Pool, two at British Camp Reservoir, two at Bodenham Arboretum, one at Broadway Gravel Pit and 15-20 at Upton Warren. Counts made away from the tabulated sites were of 72 at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 15th and February 1st, 10 at Strensham Lagoons on February 22nd and March 14th, then six at the latter site on September 19th and seven on November 7th. Staffs Widely reported as a breeding species throughout the county with quantitative data available for Doxey Marshes, where 28 pairs bred (22 pairs in 2003), at Kettlebrook Lakes where five pairs raised 15 young and at Westport Lake where 10 pairs hatched 49 chicks (including one double-brooded pair). The autumn’s highest counts provide an indication of change: at Blithfield the 1611 counted on the WeBS count in August was close to 1999-2003 average maximum of 1677 for this period suggesting little change and this is also confirmed by the figures for Belvide where the 1999-2003 average of 1035 compares closely to the 1010 noted in September. Also reported from a further seven untabulated sites including 350 at the National Memorial Arboretum on October 31st and at 136 at Trentham Lake on October 17th. W Mid Bred at Dunstall Park Lake, Marsh Lane NR (at least 11 pairs), Meriden (on a pond adjacent to the new flyover), Rocket Pool (in Bradley, three pairs), Sandwell Valley and Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (two pairs). Also reported from Blythe Valley CP and Smestow Valley.

Crane sp. Warks A single bird was flushed from a field of organic wheat at Radway on July 26th PD and watched flying away by two independent observers. Although probably a Common Crane, unfortunately not enough plumage details were noted during the short time of observation to eliminate similar escaped species.

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

68 Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –123355––––– Dosthill/Kingsbury –25334–––––– Draycote ––111–11––12 Ladywalk –124213––––– Bredonʼs Hardwick –122333–2––– Grimley New Workings–3–4542–2––– Kinsham ––2222122––– Upton Warren ––32454––––1 Barton GP 2411–6–11––––– Belvide 15977661–––– Blithfield – 1 6 5 12 3 3 1 – – – – Branston GP –4643411––––– Chasewater –1213221–––– Coldmeece – – 7 5 1 2 2 – – – – – Croxall GP 2 6 6 4 7 6 4 – – – – – Doxey ––1111–1–––– Drayton Bassett –143412––––– Tittesworth ––11222––––– Westport ––111––––––– Whitemoor Haye ––2442–––––– Whitmore ––24172––––– Sandwell Valley – – 2 3 1 1 – 1 – – – 1 Warks Only one pair bred at Kingsbury this year (cf. two-three in the area in recent years), rearing one young. A pair reared three young at Brandon; while in the south-west single pairs nested at both Abbots Salford Pool and Salford Priors GP, but probably not successfully in either case. Away from tabulated and breeding sites, there was also one at Packington Great Pool on February 27th, two at Alvecote on March 31st, and singles at Earlswood Lakes on April 30th and on shallow pools by the new M6 Toll Road at Dunton on May 1st. There was one undated autumn report from Seeswood Pool. Worcs Bred at Bredon’s Hardwick where a pair fledged a single bird and at Kinsham Lake where a pair also fledged a single bird. At Grimley New Workings a pair hatched three chicks, but they soon perished when both the parents died. Afterwards a second pair arrived there and they fledged two birds, whilst at Upton Warren a pair at the Moors Pool hatched three young. Elsewhere spring migrants comprised singles at Clifton Pits on March 21st, Westwood Pool on April 24th, Beckford Lakes on May 9th, Throckmorton Lagoons on 21st and two were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 30th. Autumn records comprised singles at Throckmorton Lagoons on July 20th and October 11th, with two there 25th. Elsewhere two adults and a juvenile were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 21st and two were at Lower Moor on August 8th. Staffs A pair nested on the shingle island at Belvide hatching three chicks on 9th May, and with two birds fledging. A second pair nested on the tern raft hatching two chicks on 17th May but these were predated. The pair hatched another two chicks on 1st July but lost them by 4th July. One pair bred at Branston Gravel Pits producing two young, as did another pair at Croxall Gravel Pits. Two pairs bred at Whitmore producing two and one young respectively. Elsewhere, in February, there were two at Alrewas GP and Dosthill, three at Kings Bromley, four at Fisherwick. In March singles were seen at Alrewas GP and Dosthill, two at Branston Water Park and Borrowpit Lake and four at Kings Bromley and Fisherwick. Singles were noted in April at Foker Grange, Coal Brook (Hales) and Gailey, and two at Stableford, Great Haywood and Catholme. In May there were six at Fisherwick/Elford GP while June records comprised one over Penn Common and two at Gailey and Clay Mills.

69 W Mid Bred at Marsh Lane NR (the first successful breeding record for the site) and Ryders Hayes Mere. Up to three birds were present in Sandwell Valley between March 17th and mid-May with a further bird recorded on June 13th. One was at Dunstall Park Lake on April 14th. Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant and very rare breeder (8/10). Worcs Another excellent year for the county commenced with singles at Lower Moor briefly on February 21st RAP and Gwen Finch Wetland on March 31st RAP. At Upton Warren singles were present on March 5th and 24th and a female (ringed) arrived on 31st, being joined by a male on April 2nd. The first two breeding attempts were thwarted by predators including Coots, but by early June the third attempt resulted in four eggs being laid and four youngsters had fledged by August 1st. The male remained until 5th, with the other five birds departing on 15th on which date they were located over Throckmorton Lagoons RAP. Staffs One at Westport Lake on March 31st RS per WJL. 2003 Addendum Staffs Two were seen at Drayton Bassett Pits on April 17th JH. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 19th March (40) to 3rd October (40). The first record came from Stubbers Green on March 13th, closely followed, on the 14th, by birds at Upton Warren and Brandon – all nearly a week ahead of the average. The last record came from Doxey Marshes on October 4th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––156643–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury – – 2 4 4 4 – – – – – – Draycote –––222411––– Ladywalk ––121–32–––– Salford Priors GP – – – 8 8 8 11 3 1 – – – Grimley New Workings – – 1 5 4 4 12 1 – – – – Lower Moor – – 2 4 4 3 – 1 – – – – Throckmorton – – – 1 2 2 1 2 – – – – Upton Warren – – 71318182210– – – – Wisemanʼs Dairy ––4109––––––– Barton GP ––152––––––– Belvide ––24371931––– Blithfield – – 1 2 2 5 11 12 1 – – – Branston GP –––4–1711––– Chasewater – – 2 2 3 1 2 – – – – – Coldmeece – – – 4 3 2 7 – – – – – Croxall GP ––15354––––– Doxey ––23332–11–– Drayton Bassett ––164691–––– Silverdale Colliery – – 5 9 9 6 4 – – – – – Tittesworth ––4246658––– Westport ––3232–––––– Whitemoor Haye – – 4 16 8 – 8 – – – – – Dunstall Park – – 3 6 7 7 8 2 – – – – Marsh Lane NR – – 4 7 9 6 1 3 – – – – Sandwell Valley – – 2 – 4 4 – – – – – –

70 Warks A total of 13 territory-holding pairs was a slight improvement, with four (three broods seen) at Salford Priors GP, three at Brandon (several young fledged), two at Kingsbury (both nests flooded out), and single pairs at Baginton Lagoons, Coleshill GP, Draycote and Lawford Heath. During the spring up to four were seen regularly at both Abbots Salford and Baginton Airport, with one or two also at Alvecote, Bedworth and Bermuda. The only later record away from tabulated sites was a single adult at Earlswood Lakes on June 21st. Extreme dates were March 14th (Brandon) and September 12th (Salford Priors GP). Worcs Breeding records came from Grimley New Workings where two pairs nested, one fledging two young from a brood of four and at Lower Moor where a single pair fledged one. Elsewhere two were at Clifton Pits on March 21st and two at Kinsham Lake the same day, with a single at Ryall Pits on 28th. April records comprised three at Bredon’s Hardwick on 4th, with two there on 16th and three on 17th, while singles were at Ryall Pits on 4th, at Spring Lane Industrial Estate briefly on 16th and Gwen Finch Wetland the same day. In May one was at Kinsham Lake on 1st, two at Ryall Pits on 15th and one at Gwen Finch Wetland on 30th, while in June two were at Ryall Pits on 20th. Singles were at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 9th, Kinsham Lake on 9th and 27th with another there on August 22nd. Staffs The first two birds were seen at Westport on March 17th, the last being at Doxey on September 12th followed by a late bird there on October 4th. Breeding records include a pair at Blithfield which produced two young; two at Cold - meece where one pro - duced three young; a pair at Croxall produced two young; a pair at Doxey produced four young, but none of these fledged; a pair was observed mating at Drayton Bassett Pits Little Ringed Plovers, Westport, Dave Kelsall on June 11th; four pairs displayed at Silverdale Colliery but only one pair was seen with three young of which two probably fledged; three pairs were at Tittesworth where one was flooded out and the others produced four and two young respectively; a pair was thought to be breeding in the Tunstall area and two pairs bred at Whitemoor Haye. A pair displayed at a landfill site at Holden Lane Pools early May but breeding was unproven. Other reports were of six at Catholme/National Memorial Arboretum on May 17th and one at Rudyard Lake on July 3rd. W Mid Breeding season records were received from Dunstall Park Lake (at least two pairs – but no young were seen and predation by magpies was noted), Marsh Lane NR (probably five pairs, though none raised any young), Sandwell Valley (though breeding did not occur) and Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (a pair throughout the summer but failed

71 to breed successfully). Also reported from Bartley Reservoir, Clayhanger and Stubbers Green.

2003 Addendum W Mid Breeding took place in the Clayhanger Marsh/Ryders Hayes Mere area.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –123434––––– Dosthill/Kingsbury – – 1 2 – – – – 1 – – – Draycote –––––1–341–– Ladywalk ––2–213––––– Salford Priors GP –––223–111–– Grimley New Workings – – – 1 8 1 – 5 – – – – Upton Warren –––6–111–––– Barton GP –22219––––––– Belvide ––179221552–– Blithfield ––––––42031–– Branston GP –246–7–871–– Chasewater –––162–––––– Croxall GP – 3 4 4 2 1 3 – – – – – Doxey ––––1––1033–– Drayton Bassett –22158422––– Whitemoor Haye – 7 4 10 14 4 10 – – – – – Sandwell Valley – – 1 1 1 – – 1 – – – –

Warks Only two breeding pairs located, with none in the former Tame Valley stronghold. Single pairs bred at Brandon (two young hatched, one reared) and Salford Priors GP (unsuccessful). Very poor numbers appeared on passage, and away from tabulated sites there were only two at Abbots Salford on April 7th and one flying south at Shustoke on August 31st. Notable were two very late spring migrants, with singles at Draycote on June 16th and Salford Priors GP on 20th. The latter was identified as a bird of the small dark arctic race, C. h. tundrae. Birds were in the county from February 15th (Brandon) until October 6th (Draycote). Worcs In April one was at the Wiseman’s Dairy Scrape on 18th, while in May one was there on 2nd and six on 7th and three the next day. Other May records were of 11 at Lower Moor on 2nd, one over Bredon Hill on 5th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 9th and two at Ryall Pits on 19th. The latter site also held a single on June 6th, while in August a single was at Lickmoor Wetland on 15th. Two were at Throckmorton Lagoons from September 18th to 23rd with another there on 30th and six were at Hinton-on-the-Green on October 5th. The final record of the year concerned a bird at Throckmorton Lagoons on the very unusual date of December 12th. Staffs First noted at Branston Gravel Pits on February 15th and last seen at Doxey Marshes on October 4th. Breeding was confirmed at Croxall GP where an adult and juvenile were seen during July. A pair was sitting on a nest at Whitemoor Haye early May, but with no chicks reported, it is assumed that they failed. Untabulated records came from Westport on May 12th, the National Memorial Arboretum on 17th, four at Tittesworth on 23rd and one on 29th and singles at Coldmeece on 20th, 24th and July 5th-6th.

72 W Mid Two pairs attempted to breed at Marsh Lane NR but were unsuccessful. One flew around Dunstall Park Lake calling on March 7th before leaving to the south, another was seen at Stubbers Green on March 13th while two were at Ryders Hayes Mere on June 3rd.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (6/10). Worcs Two males and a female on Bredon Hill performed for the crowds on May 9th and 10th SMW et al. Later in the year a juvenile was photographed on North Hill on an unrecorded date in early October DGW.

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce, and declining breeding species on the North Staffs Moors. Average dates: August 13th (56) to April 29th (58). First arrivals were seen at Fenny Compton on August 13th and the last at Bredon Hill on April 29th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Birchmoor 350 400 800 600 – – – – 1 230 150 200 Dosthill/Kingsbury – 20 – – – – – – – – 1000 1000 Draycote 1500 130 30 – – – – – – 500 1000 400 Fenny Compton 880 500 85 800 – – – 30 1 45 300 500 Bredon Hill – – 500 200 – – – 1 50 – – Bredons Hardwick 2 60 – – – – – – – – 200 30 Lower Moor 250 375 700 200 – – – 2 150 700 1092 Throckmorton 16 33 85 – – – – – 15 – 3 11 Upton Warren 120–––––––7–3 Black Bank 140 400 198 570 – – – – 27 215 60 60 Belvide 600 968 25 150 1 – – – 30 500 500 42 Blithfield –248––––1–5–– Branston GP 40 – 3 – – – – – – 65 31 270 Chasewater 7––1–––––6–14 Doxey 10 110 – – – – – – – – – 48 Drayton Bassett 2 260 – – – – – – – – 750 500 Keele University 112 205 250 253 – – – – – – – 70 Weston –––––––––300300– Whitemoor Haye 200 – 29 3 – – – – – – – – Dunstall Park 250 15 – – – – – – – 250 50 60 Illshaw /Hockley Heaths – 600 50 – – – – – 56 260 110 300 Marsh Lane NR 40 500 120 2 – – – – 8 200 500 849

Warks A further recovery in numbers was apparent; with a welcome return of a large flock, after a two year absence, to the Tame Valley in November. During the early months, maxima of 100 or more away from the main sites included: 120 at Ashorne on January 1st, 100 by Longbridge Island on 21st, 700 at Attleborough Fields on February 4th, 600 at Wasperton on 13th, 230 at Pillerton Hersey on 16th, 130 at Wishaw on 25th and 100 over Napton Res. on 27th. The last in spring was reported at Priors Hardwick on April 21st. After an early party of 30 at Fenny Compton on August 13th, no more were recorded until odd birds began to move through from September 12th onwards. The main influx commenced in the first few days of October, with site maxima of 350 at Chesterton on October 2nd, 200 at Wellesbourne on 19th, 150 at Armscote on 23rd, 500 at Hartshill on

73 28th, 1000 at Bramcote Hall on 30th, 150 at Cubbington on 31st, 180 at Priors Hardwick on November 5th, 300 at Upper Radbourn on 11th, 700 between Seckington and Shuttington on 21st, 110 at Hodnell on 24th, 150 at Seeswood and 200 south at Hampton Lucy on December 9th, 250 near Wormleighton Res. on 20th, and finally, 350 at Bretford and 140 at Warmington on 30th. A white-winged individual present in the Fenny Compton flock during January was relocated 12 km SSW at Balscote (Oxon) in March, showing how wide a range some of the feeding flocks may cover. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites the largest first winter period counts comprised 400 at Cropthorne, 61 at Kerswell Green and 45 at Upper Bittell Reservoir, all on January 1st, 120 at Holt Prairies on 2nd, with numbers rising to 230 on 10th and 105 were there on 30th. Other January records comprised 32 at Abberton 4th, 90 at Tibberton on 5th, 100 over Dines Green on 10th and 45 over Ashmoor Common on 22nd. In February, 100 were at Upton-upon-Severn on 5th, 200 near Grimley village on 16th with 100 still there next day, 30 were at Grimley New Workings on 25th and seven flew over junction 6 of the M5 on 27th. In March 30 were over Kempsey on 3rd, six at Clifton Pits on 21st and 46 at Sheriffs Lench on 31st while one flew over Bishampton on April 22nd and 17 were on Bredon Hill on 29th. The first records during the second half of the year were of one over Grimley New Workings on September 6th and two at Gwen Finch Wetland on 27th, while 66 were at Sheriff’s Lench on October 13th and 19 flew over Grimley on 31st. In November records comprised 200 at Tilesford on 8th, three over Nunnery Wood on 13th, 25 at Holt Prairies and 32 over Grimley on 14th while in December a single over Clifton Pits on 19th was followed by 100 over the M5 south of Droitwich on 28th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Orchard Common with two pairs, one producing two juveniles. It is possible that the Black Bank and Keele University flocks, detailed in the table, are the same birds. Records for the first winter period, other than those tabulated, include 400 at Park Hall on January 16th, with 19 there on 18th; up to 200 at Ingestre during January, 70 at Netherset Hey on February 1st, 20 at Denstone Hall on 26th, 100 at Amerton 28th-29th, 80 at Essington Quarry Pool on March 18th, 30 at Gailey on 22nd, 45 at Cuckoo Bank during April, two at Knotbury on 3rd and 21 at Drystone Edge on 25th, of which 12 flew to Oliver Hill. A summer flock of ten was seen at Knotbury on June 25th. In the second winter period records of significant flocks include 40 over Red Street, Chesterton on October 15th, 300 at Eland Brook on 16th, 250 at Bottom House on November 13th, 200 at Cannock landfill on 19th, 30 at Tittesworth on the same date, 300 at Eland Lodge on 20th, 150 on Stafford Common on 27th and 100 at Croxall Gravel Pits on 31st. W Mid A total of 339 was counted in a field at the junction of Honiley Road and Meer End Road on January 15th while 35 were on Darby’s Hill on February 6th. A party of thirty birds flew over Sandwell Valley on February 18th while in the Wishaw Lane/Peddimore Lane area of Minworth, 361 were counted on March 2nd, increasing to a peak of approxi- mately 650 on 16th (including ‘dozens’ of the Northern race) with 94 present on April 14th and the last eight located on April 19th. Over 200 were counted at Steelpark Way in Wednesfield on April 8th, whilst the autumn maximum from this area was 90 on November 19th. This was formerly a much favoured wintering area but now devoid of much suitable habitat through re-development. One was noted in Sandwell Valley on September 12th.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A very poor year, with no spring records for the first time in ten years. There was just one at Draycote on September 10th and two at Ladywalk on December 9th.

74 Worcs Just two records with one over Bredon Hill on May 2nd and one at Upton Warren on September 24th. Staffs Only two spring passage birds; one visited Barton GP from May 20th-22nd and a summer-plumaged bird was seen at Blithfield on 29th. Autumn passage was marked by three at Blithfield on August 6th (one still in summer plumage the other two moulting), one at Alrewas GP from September 14th-19th, one at Belvide on November 7th and finally there was a winter record of one at Alrewas GP on December 19th. W Mid One at Marsh Lane NR on April 16th was a first record for the reserve and it was followed by the second which was noted flying over on October 3rd.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 180 180 28 20 14 150 378 530 300 150 300 400 Dosthill/Kingsbury 1000 170 17 – – – – 200 300 400 600 1000 Draycote 3000 100 – – – – 30 30 – 38 1000 310 Fenny Compton 1100 650 360 18 18 12 – 1 30 330 850 1000 Salford Priors GP 100 – – – – 220 35 320 200 450 200 170 Bredonʼs Hardwick 200 92 2 – – – 2 1 98 1 168 200 Grimley New Workings – – – 32 19 12 42 290 – 2 50 2 Gwen Finch 9 – 1 – 3 120 – – – 58 – 1 Kinsham 200 200 12 12 20 12 10 120 2 – – – Upper Bittell 106 – 2 4 – – – 70 1 – 260 – Upton Warren 920 800 500 17 17 60 82 195 220 400 920 1030 Apedale CP/Silverdale Colliery 58 21 24 27 18 12 – – – 13 45 29 Barton GP 43029014––––––––– Baswich (R. Sow) 24 207 8 8 6 – – 82 122 – 8 – Belvide 1000 800 574 – 53 129 150 314 – – 485 – Blithfield – – – 2 – 65 200 – – 48 – 72 Bottom House ––––––––––150200 Branston GP 25 152 3 – – – – – – 70 100 – Chasewater 70 130 – 2 6 30 41 23 42 94 35 55 Coldmeece 600 300 50 24 20 77 180 240 16 450 4 60 Croxall GP 540 395 26 – 6 – – – – – – – Denstone Hall 90 210 – 2 – – – 83 – – 290 85 Doxey 190 280 30 22 29 19 124 1100 355 122 257 265 Drayton Bassett – – – – – – – – – 580 – 450 Keele University – 100 – 6 6 5 – – – – – 75 National Memorial Arboretum – – – – – – – – – 80 – 500 Rickerscote –300–––––––150–– Stableford 120 440 350 22 19 – – – – – 500 900 Tittesworth 50 170 55 3 6 82 310 168 160 20 45 78 Weston ––––1––––250–– Westport 1801332–––––––– Whitemoor Haye 400 – 30 8 34 – – – – – – – Whitmore (Bent Lane) 2 350 220 38 24 4 – – – – – – Dunstall Park 700 120 15 6 10 130 137 170 120 100 151 140 Marsh Lane NR 1025 1000 250 18 – 70 165 322 500 386 400 830 Sandwell Valley 49 124 22 18 30 29 70 61 57 42 39 54 Sheepwash UP 40 35 4 1 – – – – – – 40 35 Stubbers Green 27 7 16 2 1 1 56 102 107 100 92 91 Warks At least 122 breeding pairs were located at 36 sites (cf. 122-124 pairs at 42 sites

75 in 2002), but the total was severely depressed by the lack of information from the north of the county which have important populations. Pairs were located at: Alvecote, Aston Cantlow (eight), Barford, Beausale, Bishop’s Itchington (three), Brandon (seven, at least four successful), Burton Dassett, Charlecote, Chesterton, DMC Kineton (at least ten), Farnborough (four), Fenny Compton (nine, six successful), Hodnell, Kenilworth, Lady- walk, Leamington Hastings, Lighthorne Quarry, Little Packington (three), Lower Radbourn, Maxstoke (two), Morton Bagot (five), Napton (eight), Offchurch (12 in just two fallow fields), Oxhill (two), Pack- ington Park (eight, at least four success- ful), Priors Hardwick (three), Radford Semele, Radway (four), Salford Priors GP (six success- ful), Shipston-on-Stour (two), Studley (two), Terry’s Green (two), Tysoe (two), Ufton (several), Was per ton (three) and Worm - leighton. A further considerable improve - Northern Lapwing, Parkhall CP, Dave Kelsall ment was seen in wintering numbers, with the flock of 3000 at Draycote being the largest in the county since 1997, when 6000 were there. Other site maxima included: 400 at Alvecote on January 2nd, 250 by Itchington Holt on 28th, 450 at Wasperton on February 13th, 180 at Maxstoke on 22nd, 165 at Charlecote GP on 26th, 200 at Knightcote on March 4th, 350 at Chesterton on August 28th, 400 at Abbots Salford on 29th, 250 at Stoneton on September 11th, 750 at Cubbington and 600 at Watergall on November 15th, 350 at Hodnell on 24th, 150 at Coughton on December 5th and 330 near Wormleighton Res. on 20th. A leucistic individual was seen at Abbots Salford on April 22nd-23rd. Worcs Breeding season records came from Kinsham Lake, where ten pairs bred, on Bredon Hill, where six pairs nested above Westmancote while a pair with two chicks were seen at the top of the hill. At Tibberton three pairs attempted to breed and singles pairs were noted at Pensax, Rabbit Wood and Spetchley Park. Away from the tabulated sites, counts made at Lower Moor comprised 500 on January 1st and 300 on February 12th, while at Tibberton 39 were present on January 3rd, rising to 240 on 6th and 250 on 21st. Later in the year 160 were at Ryall Pits on August 29th, 180 were at Lower Moor on November 16th and 27 flew north over Kyre on December 26th, where winter flocks are uncommon west of the River Teme. Staffs A total of 287-306 pairs was reported to have bred or to have been displaying this year. This was down on the 350 pairs recorded in 2003 but is thought to be mainly due to a lack of coverage this year of the south-east quarter of the county. The details are tabulated on the following page:

76 Acton Trussell (one) Great Chatwell (one) Apedale CP (six pairs, only one young) Hales Estate (one) Aqualate (four) Hayes (one) Aston by Stone (one) Hazel Barrow (four) Badgers Croft (one), High Ash (two) Barrow Moor (one) Holden Lane Pools (two) Baswich (three-four pairs on the River Sow Keele (three pairs at Yew Tree Farm, one with meadows) three chicks) Bateswood CP (four pairs all deserted after Knotbury (three) disturbance) Lask Edge (two) Bent Lane (19 pairs displayed, 12 sat) Little Ferneyford (five) Black Bank (four pairs all producing chicks) Lower Hatton (five) Bleak House (eight) Madeley (one) Blithfield (approx 5 pairs with young) Merril Grove (three) Boosley Grange (one) Morridge (eight pairs in the Bradnop area) Bradley (two) Musden Low (one) Brindley Ford (two pairs, one with two juveniles) Norton Bridge (two) Brockton Grange (five-six) Orchard Common (two) Brune Mill (two) Otherton (three) Burntwood (one) Quixhill (one) Butterton, Newcastle (nine) Peasley Bank (one) Chebsey (two) Pethills (seven) Church Eaton (three pairs, three fledglings) Radford Bank (two) Coldmeece (12 pairs, at least two juveniles) Ranton (two pairs, one with chicks) Cold Norton (two) Readyleach Green (three pairs with five offspring) Cotes Heath (two) Reapsmoor (three) Croxall GP (three pairs, three chicks/young) Royledge (one) Cuckoo Bank (20, most probably failed) Silverdale Colliery (six pairs, two failed, four Denstone (two) producing chicks) Doley Common (five, two broods failed but at least Spring Head (two) six fledglings) Stableford (eleven) Dove Head (eight) Stanley Moor (one) Doxey (11 pairs, most failed, two confirmed Sturbridge (five) fledglings but at least 10 juveniles reported) Summerhill (seven) Drystone Edge (three) Swynnerton (seven) Feltsitch (one) Thorncliffe (two) Flash (eight) Tittesworth (one pair with four chicks) Fleet Green (three) Upper Brownhill (one) Goldsitch Moss (one with chicks) Whitemoor Haye (17 pairs in the area, at least five Gospel Ash (three) sitting) Gradbach (four) Whittimere (three) Gravelly Way (one) Wigginstall (one)

Other sites with birds present in late spring, but where breeding was not indicated, were Caltonmoor (three-four pairs), Foker Grange (one), Musden Low (two) and Pillaton (one).

Winter flocks were reported from Napley Farm, 70 on January 1st, 150 at Foker Grange on 3rd, 85 at Flashbrook Grange and 150 at Weston Jones Mill on 18th, 150 at Burston on February 1st, 100 at the M6 Toll interchange on 18th, 150 at Gailey on 21st, 300 at Springslade Lodge, Cannock Chase on 21st, 260 at Fisherwick on 22nd, 100 at East Seighford in September, 134 at Wetley Moor on October 30th, 100 at Lapley on November 7th, 100 at Bury Bank on 17th, 700 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 28th, 500 at Whittington Common on December 11th, 80 at East Bishton on 13th, 80 at Bagots Bromley on 15th, 100 at Crakemarsh on 19th, 300 at Combridge on 28th and the highest count this year, 2000 at Crakemarsh Lake on 28th. Counts of less than 70 came from a further 24 sites.

77 W Mid Breeding was reported from Blythe Valley CP (eight pairs with young fledging from at least four of them – sadly the area in which they breed is earmarked for development), Dunstall Park Lake (three sitting on the island but sadly no young were fledged), Marsh Lane NR (six pairs but only two young fledged successfully as a result of predation by Kestrels, Carrion Crows and gulls), Sandwell Valley (minima of 14 young fledged), Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (one pair raised four young) and in the Stubbers Green area. 300 were at Illshaw Heath on January 1st. A flock of 70 flew south over Blythe Valley Business Park on December 27th.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks Singles were seen at Draycote on March 27th-28th, August 24th, and from September 13th-15th. Worcs A summer-plumaged adult was at Grimley New Workings on August 14th and singles were at Grimley Old Workings and Upton Warren on November 21st. Staffs A good year with 17 birds recorded. The first of the spring passage was one at Belvide on March 11th, then Doxey on April 20th, a summer-plumaged bird at Branston Gravel Pits on May 11th, two summer plumage birds at Drayton Bassett on 17th and a late arrival at Belvide on June 2nd. The first on return passage was a summer-plumaged bird at Blithfield July 27th-30th, then two (one a juvenile) there August 22nd, with the Juvenile Red Knot, Alan Dean juvenile probably remain- ing until 25th although it was not reported on 23rd, one at Belvide August 31st-September 1st, two long staying juveniles at Blithfield from 10th-18th, two at Chasewater on 15th, singles at Belvide on 22nd, Branston Gravel Pits on 29th-30th and October 3rd. W Mid Two juveniles were at Bartley Reservoir on September 2nd and 3rd.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Warks Spring passage opened well with a party of 12 at Draycote on May 12th, followed by one on 13th. Three were on the new boom at Dosthill Lake on May 23rd and one on June 3rd. The only return record was of a single at Draycote on August 13th-14th. Worcs There was just a single record of one at Grimley New Workings on May 28th. Staffs All spring passage birds appeared during May and included singles at Whitemoor Haye on 1st and at Belvide and Drayton Bassett on 12th, two at Barton GP on 13th, one at Whitemoor Haye on 15th, two at Barton GP on 18th, three at Whitemoor Haye on 19th-20th, two at Blithfield on 20th with one remaining until the next day, singles at

78 Westport on 20th, Belvide on 23rd, Drayton Bassett on 24th-25th and 27th and Blithfield on 30th. Return passage commenced with singles at Blithfield on July 18th, Drayton Bassett on 19th, Belvide 23rd-24th, at Blithfield on 23rd-24th (in summer plumage), another on 30th-31st and August 2nd, at Belvide on 20th and finally two juveniles at Blithfield from 22nd-24th.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring and winter. Warks Single spring adults were seen at Brandon on May 21st and Salford Priors GP on the very late date of June 20th. A single at Draycote on October 13th was the only autumn record. Worcs Upton Warren held an adult on May 18th and 19th, with another adult at Grimley New Workings from August 7th-9th. The first juvenile occurred at Upper Bittell Reservoir from September 7th-10th, with singles at Upton Warren from October 13th-18th and October 31st-November 1st. Staffs Spring passage consisted of one at Coldmeece on May 13th and two at Barton GP on 18th. Return passage was also quiet, with two at Doxey on August 22nd and singles at Belvide from September 1st-5th, at Blithfield on 1st, Doxey on 4th, Belvide 7th-8th, Blithfield on 8th and Belvide October 8th-9th. W Mid A juvenile was present at Marsh Lane NR between September 10th and 15th.

Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring (8/10). Warks At Salford Priors GP, there was an adult in fresh breeding plumage on June 20th JJB et al, which was probably a very late northbound spring migrant. At the same site a juvenile was seen on September 12th JJB. This bird was flushed and possibly taken by a hunting Hobby. Worcs An adult spent the day at Upton Warren on July 5th GG et al, but flew off south in the evening and was relocated at Grimley New Workings briefly before again flying off to the south BS.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Staffs One at Doxey on May 14th-15th MDB was the only record this year.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring. Warks No records. 1989 was the last blank year in the county. Worcs Two juveniles were at Upton Warren from September 6th-13th with one remain - ing to the next day. Staffs A poor year, apart from late September at Belvide. The sole spring passage record was of a late summer-plumaged bird at Drayton Bassett on June 7th. Return passage commenced with one at Belvide, a moulting adult, which flew in with the huge Common Redshank flock, on August 10th. This was followed by two there on 19th, one at Doxey on September 6th, a juvenile at Branston Gravel Pits on 7th, two at Belvide from 17th-19th, rising to five on 20th, then two on 21st, three on 22nd, five on 23rd and finally one on 30th.

79 Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon ––234–2112–– Dosthill/Kingsbury – – 1 1 2 – – – 2 2 – – Draycote –3–14–4712311 Ladywalk ––1–2––1–––1 Salford Priors GP – – – – 11 – 2 2 1 4 – – Shustoke ––––1––122–– Bredonʼs Hardwick1710–671632421 Grimley New Workings–––671632421 Kinsham –––122––11–– Lower Moor – – 1 1 22 – – – – – 9 – Throckmorton –––31–232215 Upper Bittell –––1––111––1 Upton Warren 1 1 1 7 13 1 6 4 4 4 6 3 Barton GP 1–141931–––1– Belvide 3 – 9 5 32 3 15 15 6 6 10 1 Blithfield – – – 2 9 – 26 25 8 13 1 – Branston GP –1–7–––89314 Chasewater ––243–2121–– Coldmeece ––––6–2––––– Croxall GP – 2 2 – 4 – – – – – – – Doxey ––122–24724– Drayton Bassett – – – 1 29 3 2 – – – – – Tittesworth ––2–2–11–––– Whitemoor Haye ––––5–––3–2– Marsh Lane NR –1549–1421211 Sandwell Valley 1 – 1 1 4 – 1 1 2 1 – –

Warks High water levels at most waters denied this and other passing waders suitable feeding grounds, adding up to a very poor year. The only double figure flocks were of 11 at Salford Priors GP on May 2nd and 12 at Draycote on September 7th. The Tame Valley had the poorest passage for many years, with the only others recorded being singles at Coton on May 4th and November 7th. Elsewhere in the county, there were two in a partly flooded arable field at Wasperton on February 13th, at least four heard migrating after dark over Ditchford Frary on May 5th, and one with a Golden Plover flock near Hartshill STW on October 28th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites one flew through Westwood Pool on March 20th with another there on April 15th and two were at Willow Farm Fisheries on 17th. One was at the Wiseman’s Dairy Scrape, Droitwich on May 12th and another at Ryall Pits on 19th. Autumn records comprised singles on July 25th and September 18th, again at Ryall Pits, while in October singles were at Clifton Pits on 10th and 17th and finally one was at Westwood Pool on December 6th. Staffs Untabulated records came from Silverdale Colliery with two on April 26th, then a summer-plumaged bird on May 3rd-4th and another on 19th. there were two at Doley Common on 3rd and singles at Gailey on August 31st and Alrewas Gravel Pits on December 19th. W Mid One was noted at the Tarmac Quarries west of Meriden on April 28th. At Steelpark Way in Wednesfield, five were present on May 2nd with one noted on May 12th. One on Dunstall Park Lake on May 30th. Singles were noted at Bartley on July 12th and 28th.

80 Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus Very rare vagrant (0/10). Staffs A well-watched bird at Drayton Bassett Pits from June 7th-11th JH drew appreciative crowds throughout its stay. This is the first county record and the second for the Region; the first being in 1985 at Coton. See article on page 202. Slightly smaller than Dunlin and with shorter legs. A beautifully marked wader with the most prominent feature being split supercillium, bill longish with downward kink near tip. Dark freckling on upper chest with white underneath. Upperparts dark with snipe-like plumage. Call a harsh Broad-billed Sandpiper, Drayton Bassett, Andy Warr “CHRRREEIT”.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 5––1––1111–– Blithfield 1––––––2–––– Branston GP 111––––––––– Doxey ––––1––242––

Warks Just ten birds were recorded, the lowest total for 40 years. In spring there were singles at Brandon on March 31st-April 1st, Draycote on April 26th-27th, at Brandon again on May 12th and at Kingsbury, a male in full breeding attire, on 22nd. On return passage there were two at Draycote on July 6th, with one there on August 19th and two on 31st. The only other record was of a bird at Salford Priors GP on August 29th. Worcs A poor year with the first being a male at Lower Moor from January 1st-4th. Singles were at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 14th and April 4th and four were at Kinsham Lake on May 18th. The autumn passage was confined to just two localities with singles at Upton Warren from July 6th-8th , September 19th-24th, October 11th and 12th and finally on November 12th. The only other record was of one at Grimley New Workings on August 12th and 13th. Staffs An extremely poor showing this year, particularly at Blithfield, where high water levels may have been a contributing factor. The new scrape at Doxey however, appears to have drawn birds to a site they are not usually reported from. The only other bird was one at Chasewater late August. W Mid An early bird was at Marsh Lane NR on February 3rd with another present on September 6th.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Average dates: September 26th (63) to April 20th (59).

81 The first arrival of the autumn was seen at Doxey Marshes on September 4th, well ahead of the average, while the last was also seen there on April 25th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon –22–––––––2– Ladywalk –2–––––––––2 Lighthorne Quarry 2 1 1 – – – – – – 2 – 1 Salford Priors GP 1 1 1 – – – – – – – – 1 Wasperton –31––––––––1 Castlemorton 1–––––––––17 Lower Moor – – 1 – – – – – – 2 3 2 Upton Warren 221–––––1224 Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery – 1 – – – – – – – 1 2 – Belvide –––––––––5–– Blithfield –21–––––––1– Branston Water Park–––––––––1–3 Chasewater 2 5 1 – – – – – – 1 1 6 Croxall GP – – – – – – – – – – 2 1 Cuckoo Bank 231–––––––21 Doxey –18141 – – – – 5213761 Drayton Bassett ––––––––––11 Hill Ridware 1 2 4 – – – – – – – 1 – Sandwell Valley ––3–––––21–4 Sheepwash UP –11––––––––1 Warks Compared to very recent years it was undoubtedly a lack-lustre showing. In January, there were also four at Middleton Hall Pool on 4th and two at Dosthill Lake on 25th. Towards the end of the year further singles were found at Priors Hardwick on November 5th, DMC Kineton on 16th, Fenny Compton on December 7th and Whitacre Heath NR on 29th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, one was at Oakley Pool on January 10th, one at Ashmoor Common on 11th, three at Abberton on February 5th with one there on 28th, while one was flushed from the summit of Walton Hill on March 29th. In the second winter period records were more widespread, the first sighting coming from Upton Warren, with two present on September 22nd. One was at Throckmorton Tip on September 29th and in October singles were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 5th and 28th, three at Wilden Marsh on 19th, one at Holt Heath on 29th and nearby two were at Grimley New Workings on 31st. A single bird was at Ashmoor Common on November 11th, with two there on 23rd, while trios were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 5th and 8th and Abberton on 14th. December records comprised one at Holt Heath on 9th and two at Abberton the same day, with singles at Grimley New Workings on 12th and Lower Bittell Reservoir on 26th. Staffs Another good year with particularly high counts from Doxey. Away from the above sites, three were present at Coldmeece on February 1st, one at Bateswood CP on 13th, one at Pool Dam on 14th, another in a clear-fell area of Hanchurch Woods on the same date, one Wetley Moor on 19th, another at Barton Gravel Pits on March 21st and two at Musden Low on April 14th. In the second winter period there was one on the Roaches and another at Whitemoor Haye on November 14th and singles at Denstone Hall on December 7th and Strawberry Hill on 19th. W Mid All of the following records involved single birds. Noted around Dunstall Park Lake on January 4th and October 13th; at Goscote Valley on February 4th, November 24th and December 22nd; and Marsh Lane NR on April 4th, November 14th and December 17th – though almost certainly present on a regular basis during both winter periods.

82 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent, though much declined, as a breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Brandon 7 8 7 16 5 3 8 13 6 19 9 8 Kingsbury 38 15 7 – – – – 2 15 5 7 5 Ladywalk 77962115201287 Lighthorne Quarry 16 3 17 6 – – – – – 9 14 6 Priors Hardwick – 26 18 5 2 – – 1 5 20 16 10 Salford Priors GP – – – – – – 5 45 22 30 12 10 Wasperton 38 42 23 – – – – – – 6 25 11 Castlemorton 212510– – – – – –162331 Gwen Finch 202125 1 – – 121446085 Kinsham 7 20 13 10 – – – – – 2 23 17 Throckmorton ––1––––––232 Upton Warren 221–––––1224 Apedale CP 75171–––––3922 Aqualate ––331––––––152 Barton GP 42224–––––––– Bateswood CP 6624–––––––––– Belvide 7 19 18 9 – – 4 8 4 50 17 1 Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery 29 36 32 19 – – – – 14 19 15 26 Blithfield 1 – – – – – 16 19 – 8 2 4 Branston GP ––2–––––225– Cuckoo Bank 720219––––43–70 Chasewater 7 23 3 1 – – – 1 2 9 11 30 Coldmeece 19 24 2 6 1 – – 2 17 4 – 12 Croxall GP 20 2 2 1 – – – – 2 – 65 5 Doxey 121 396 256 10 2 1 7 309 375 500 677 704 Drayton Bassett 4133––––1–41 Hill Ridware 16 23 23 – – – – – – – 5 – Ingestre –29––––––25––– Kings Bromley – 17 11 – – – – – – – – – Norton Bridge 10 20 – – – – – – – – – – Stableford ––––––––––136148 Tittesworth 34 8 3 3 – 2 7 15 9 5 14 21 Other Sites 44 48 30 6 65+ 2 2 – 29 251 24 21 Dunstall Park 63 51 47 18 1 – – – 5 15 23 46 Goscote Valley 5 4 2 2 1 – – 1 – 1 – 2 Marsh Lane NR 11 13 11 16 3 – – 8 12 39 35 5 Sandwell Valley 7 4 10 3 1 1 3 3 10 11 8 35

Warks An almost continuous presence through the summer at two former breeding sites is encouraging, although display has not yet been observed. Other maxima included 14 at DMC Kineton on February 10th; and in the autumn, 23 in stubble at Fenny Compton on November 6th, 25 at Draycote on 18th, 17 at Chapel Ascote on 24th, ten at Coton on 29th, 21 at Knightcote on December 6th, 20 at Napton Res. on 8th and an excellent 70 at Radway from 25th-31st , which was the precursor to a large influx into the south of the county in early 2005. Worcs During the first winter period and away from the tabulated sites the only other notable counts were of 15 at Holt Prairies on January 14th and eight at Abberton on February 28th, with smaller counts being made at Ashmoor Common, Bredon’s Hardwick, Strensham Lagoons, Tibberton, and Westwood Pool. In late April four were at Bredon’s

83 Hardwick and one at Ryall Pits on 25th. Autumn records comprised 12 over Grimley new workings on August 9th, singles at both Bittell Reservoir and Ryall Pits and three at Clifton Pits on September 11th. Numbers then began to increase in October with 11 at Wilden Marsh on 19th and 17 at Holt Prairies on 29th. In November, 13 were at Bittell Reservoir on 12th, 22+ at Ryall Pits on 13th, 16 at Abberton and 12 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 14th and 31 at Ashmoor Common on 23rd. At Wilden Marsh, 14 were present on December 9th and 30 were at Grimley New Workings on 12th. Staffs Some exceptional winter counts from Doxey in the second winter period eclipsed all others, but a sizeable wintering flock in a flooded stubble field at Stableford shows that there may be many more wintering birds waiting to be discovered. An extensive survey of the North Staffs moors RMB resulted in the discovery of as many as 65-68 pairs drumming or present, possibly breeding, a huge increase over previous years. It is hoped that further surveys will determine the future status of these birds. They were seen during the breeding season at Badgers Croft, Barrow Moor, Boarsgrove, Dove Head, Flash (two pairs), Fleet Green (four pairs), Gib Torr, Gradbach (three), Harpers Gate, Hayes (eight), High Ash (six-eight), Hole Carr, Knotbury (two), Little Ferneyford, Lum Edge, Merril Grove (four), Oakenclough Hall (two), Pethills (nine-ten), Pyeclough Head (two), Reapsmoor (three), Roach Grange, Round Knowl Farm, Spring Head, Summerhill (three), Thick Withins (two), Thorncliffe and Turn Edge. Birds were observed drumming in most cases but there was no confirmation of any offspring. In addition a pair bred at Doxey. Other significant counts included in “Other Sites” above came from Rudyard Lake with 18 on January 3rd, 45 at Doley Common on February 1st, ten at River Sow Meadows, 13 at Biddulph Moor on March 30th, Baswich on September 12th with 19 on 25th, 49 at Gun Hill on October 17th, 12 in the Sherbrook Valley on 26th, 100 at Clay Mills Sewage Works on 29th, 70 at Rickerscote on 30th and 12 at Fisherwick/Elford GP on November 12th. W Mid Display flight was noted from Clayhanger in May and June. The 63 in Dunstall Park in January was a site record count – this site seems to have bucked the county trend of generally declining numbers during the last 10 years – whilst the 39 at Marsh Lane NR on October 19th was also a site record count. One in Blythe Valley CP on April 11th. Also noted at Ryders Hayes Mere and in Smestow Valley.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks During the breeding season, roding birds were recorded at Bentley Woods (four) and Whichford Wood (one). It was widespread during the winter months, with reports again from over 30 sites across the county. Groups of three-five were flushed at Bunkers Hill Wood, Spernall Park and Stoneton during January-February, and at Bannam’s Wood, Brandon, DMC Kineton and Spernall Park in December. Extreme dates for wintering birds were April 15th at Stoneton and October 13th at Brandon. An exceptional 40-50 were put up by a shooting party in Wellesbourne Wood on a date during the last week of December BJP. Worcs During the breeding season three were noted at Callow Hill on May 30th, while roding birds were noted at Dowles Brook (two) on May 2nd and Shatterford Wood on 20th, with two there on July 30th. First winter period records comprised singles on Bredon Hill on January 20th and 29th, Chase End Hill on 25th, Shatterford Wood on 18th and Throckmorton Lagoons on 25th while in February one was at Huddington on 9th, two were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 12th, two at Shatterford Wood on 7th with one there on 15th,

84 two at Throckmorton Lagoons on 23rd, singles at Westwood Pool on 16th and 26th and one at Abberton also on 26th. March saw two at Wood Norton on 5th, with a single there on 31st, two were at Castlemorton Common on 13th, while singles were at Abberton on 7th and Throckmorton Tip on 9th. During the second winter period singles were at Kinsham Lake on October 11th, Eymore Wood on 27th and Castlemorton Common on 31st while in November singles were noted at Westwood Pool on 8th, Happy Valley on 13th, Nimmings on 21st and two were at Wood Norton on 17th. Finally in December singles were at Oakley Pool on 9th, Throckmorton Lagoons on 12th, Huddington on 19th and Lower Bittell Reservoir on 26th. Staffs Roding birds were recorded on Cannock Chase at Katyn Memorial, Marquis Drive, Penkridge Banks, Seven Springs and Sherbrook Valley which, together with records from elsewhere on the Chase in the summer months, indicates a breeding population well into double figures. Elsewhere in the breeding season there was one at Tittesworth on June 1st, two birds at Consall CP on July 2nd and two others heard roding regularly at Harpers Gate. In the first winter period the highest counts came from Crumpwood (seven, February 28th), Apedale CP (three, January 4th) and Knypersley (three, February 22nd). Other January records of one or two birds, came from Belvide, Blithfield (two), Chasewater, Knypersley (two) and Tittesworth. February records came from Aqualate, Back Forest, Belvide, Chasewater, Five Clouds, Hanchurch Woods, Seven Springs and Tittesworth; March records from Baggeridge, Cuckoo Bank, Rifle Range, Wolseley Bridge, Wolstanton, and Blithfield. In the second winter period, one was seen on October 30th at Barn Bank Lane (Stafford). November records, all singles, came from Belvide, Branston GP, Brocton, Chasewater, Cuckoo Bank, Sherbrook Valley and Thorswood, Stanton. December records came from Apedale CP (three on 7th), Aqualate, Baggeridge, Brocton Coppice, Crumpwood, Cuckoo Bank, Harper Meadow (Denstone) and Tittesworth. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, singles were noted on February 18th, November 5th (found dead in a back garden after flying into a window), November 21st, December 11th and 18th. Singles were noted at Bluebell Woods (in the Wrens Nest area) on March 5th and Darby’s Hill on November 29th. In Blythe Valley CP, single birds were noted on March 11th, November 1st and 24th. One was flushed from the edge of Dunstall Park Lake on March 25th and one was killed when it flew into a window at the Wildside Activity Centre in Smestow Valley on 29th.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide – – 1 1 130 1 7 2 2 – 2 – Blithfield – – – – – 2 60 3 1 – 1 – Branston GP –––11–––1111– Doxey ––––19––10–1––

Warks Spring passage commenced with two over Abbots Salford on March 13th; followed by single birds at Brandon on April 3rd-4th, Dosthill on 16th, with perhaps the same at nearby Fisher’s Mill GP on 17th, Brandon again on 18th and at Draycote on 19th. Then followed an incredible flock of 70 which were seen briefly at Fisher’s Mill GP on April 22nd before going to roost at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury in the evening, easily a county

85 record per BLK. Return passage began with a party of ten, again at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury, on July 13th. Eight flew east over Brandon on August 15th and 15 were there from 16th- 19th, usually just coming in only during the evenings. During the day they may have been feeding during this time at the nearby inaccessible Baginton Lagoons, or in the Avon meadows. Subsequently there were two at Ladywalk on August 22nd, one at Alvecote on September 5th, three at Kingsbury on the evening of October 5th, and a final single there on November 13th. Worcs The only spring record was one heard calling over Abberton at 23:50 hours on April 13th. However the autumn was far more productive and commenced with a new county record when a flock of 46 flew over Throckmorton Tip on July 4th RAP. Further July records comprised one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 7th, 15 at Upton Warren on 9th and three there on 27th. In August a juvenile was also at Upton Warren from 11th-14th with numbers rising to six on 15th and then three from 16th-19th. Grimley New Workings hosted five briefly during the morning of 14th followed by a single bird later that day. Also a juvenile arrived there on September 4th remaining until 11th with another three on 9th. Further September records came from Upton Warren with a juvenile present from 13th- 30th, while later in the year a single was seen on December 8th and 9th. Staffs The first bird was recorded at Belvide on 8th March, the last at Branston GP on November 28th. Some exceptional flocks appeared this year, the first and best being an exceptional 130 at Belvide on May 14th. Another large influx occurred on July 4th with 33 at Barton GP and 60 at Blithfield. Also of note were 25 at Drayton Bassett on April 23rd and 19 flying over Doxey on May 27th. On July 17th a flock of 14 was present at Tittesworth. In the flock was a bird ringed as a breeding female in northern Iceland in June 2003. It was subsequently seen on August 21, 2003 at Clonakilty Bay, Cork and January 14th 2004 in the Humber Estuary, Lincolnshire. Untabulated records include one at Barton on May 16th, six at Westport on May 19th and June 19th, four flying over the Katyn Memorial on 29th, three at Newbold Quarry on July 11th, Coldmeece on 19th and a fly- over at Gailey Lower Pool on August 8th. W Mid Two were at Marsh Lane NR on March 4th followed by 28 flying north-west on April 12th. Two flew over Swan Pool in Sandwell Valley on April 14th with singles present on July 21st and August 13th. A superb flock of 42 was on the island at Ryders Hayes Mere on April 17th. Autumn passage at Marsh Lane NR saw six over on June 30th, 11 on August 11th, three on 12th and singles on 13th and 15th.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks There were single birds on spring passage at Draycote on April 25th and 27th, presumably concerning different individuals. A late bird at Kingsbury on November 26th was seen again at Coton on 28th. Worcs In May singles were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 1st and Kinsham Lake on 18th. Three flew over Upton Warren on September 30th, then there were no further records until November when an excellent count of six birds at Bredon’s Hardwick on 20th were followed by one at Upton Warren the next day. Staffs Thirteen birds were reported this year starting with a single at Belvide on March 31st, then two on April 27th, followed by singles at Whitemoor Haye on May 31st and Barton GP on June 2nd. Return passage commenced with one at Doxey on September 4th, another at Belvide on 11th, three at Doxey on October 13th and single at Blithfield and Belvide on November 21st.

86 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Warks A good spring passage began with a very early bird calling in flight over Brandon on March 18th BMCG, the earliest county record by nine days. Three more were seen at Ladywalk on March 25th. Draycote had most, with one on April 22nd, an excellent flock of 26 through on 24th, and then further singles on 27th and May 10th. Kingsbury had one on April 18th and two on 23rd, while a bird was found feeding in a field of young peas at Birchmoor in the early morning of May 8th. On return passage, there was one at Draycote on July 28th, two by a pool in Camp Hill, Nuneaton on August 14th, a bird at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury from 26th-28th, and finally late singles flew south-west over Wormleighton Res. on September 28th and Napton Res. on 29th. Worcs The first records of the year occurred on April 17th and probably related to the same bird being noted at Grimley New Workings, Westwood Pool and Wiseman’s Scrape. Further April records were of one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 21st, two at Wilden Marsh on 23rd, and singles at Grimley New Workings on 25th and Upton Warren the next day. May saw the main passage with singles flying north over Pitmaston Road in Worcester and at Upper Bittell Reservoir, both on 2nd, four at Bredon’s Hardwick from 5th, rising to six on 9th and 10th, and singles at Upton Warren on 6th, Cutnell Green and Wiseman’s Scrape on 12th, and Kinsham Lake and Grimley New Workings on 23rd, while in June one flew over Bishampton Vale Pool on 5th. Autumn records comprised one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 22nd, two over Bishampton Vale Pool on August 8th, five over Grimley New Workings the next day and finally one over Warndon Church on 29th. Staffs Just 22 birds recorded in spring – half that of the previous two years (44 in 2002 and 43 in 2003). In contrast, 50 in the autumn is massively higher (11 and four respec - tively), helped by two double-figure counts at Blithfield. The first arrived at Belvide on April 17th, then two flew over Branston GP and one was at Coldmeece on 19th, two at Westport and one at Belvide on 20th, the latter joined by another on 21st. Another was seen at Whitemoor Haye on 24th-25th and one at Branston GP on the 30th. In May there was one at Tittesworth the1st, two at Drayton Bassett on 2nd, one at Blithfield on 9th, two at Belvide on 11th, three at Doxey on 12th, and singles at Blithfield on 16th and Belvide on 16th and 20th. A bird flew down the Churnet Valley at Denstone Hall on June 18th. Return passage commenced with one at Blithfield on July 10th, six on 21st and three on 23rd-24th followed by one at Belvide on 29th. In August there were three at Blithfield on the 6th, one at Tittesworth on 7th, another at Blithfield on 9th, 18 WSW over Blithfield on 13th, one at Belvide on 14th, 12 through Blithfield on 25th, another at Drayton Bassett on 27th and finally one at Belvide on September 1st. W Mid Singles were noted at Marsh Lane NR and Ryders Hayes Mere on April 16th. The only autumn record was of one that flew through Marsh Lane NR on August 8th.

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Fairly common summer resident and passage migrant. Frequent in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Ladywalk – 1 8 4 – – 5 9 – 2 – – Upton Warren 35454551217607055533430 Barton GP 211–––––––––– Belvide –11851201––12– Blithfield 411––1231––– Branston GP 13 17 28 – – 4 21 16 11 14 – 10

87 JFMAMJJASOND Caltonmoor – – 1 6 3 4 – – – – – – Coldmeece – 3 2 2 – – – – – – – – Doley Common – 2 16 – – 18 – – – – – – Doxey –111–1–1––1– Knotbury –––834–––––– Silverdale Colliery – – – 3 1 1 – – – 1 – – Tittesworth – 1 110 14 2 2 16 11 1 2 9 – Warks Territorial pairs were located at Austrey (bred), DMC Kineton (bred, with seven present in late June), Griff, Maxstoke, Morton Bagot, Oxhill, Polesworth, Preston-on- Stour, Priors Hardwick, Shelfield, Spernall (three), Studley, Tysoe and Whatcote. Although probably holding its own in the south-west of the county, a worrying decline has been noticed in the north and south-east in recent years, presumably related to increasingly poor breeding success. This year it was reported to be less frequently noted in the Maxstoke area, while a traditional territory at Bramcote Hall was deserted. The decline is also reflected at the regular roost of (presumably) local breeding birds at Ladywalk, where numbers have halved in just two years. Passage birds were reported from another eight sites. Worcs Pairs were noted during the breeding season at Bredon’s Hardwick (two), Broadheath, Gwen Finch Wetland, Himbleton, Lower Moor, Stock Green, and between Tibberton and Trench Wood where two pairs bred, one fledging a single bird. In addition birds were also heard at other possible breeding localities; Pensax, Powick Ham, Rabbit Wood, Ripple and Stoke Bliss. Other records comprised six at Kinsham Lake on February 22nd, with a single there on March 21st and singles were at Abberton on April 11th and May 3rd and Throckmorton the same day. Twelve were at Holt Prairies on July 13th and singles were at Bredon’s Hardwick and Ryall Pits on June 20th and one at Grimley New Workings on August 11th. Staffs A large number of displaying and calling birds were recorded again this year, 102 pairs in total, predominantly on the North Staffs Moors. No juveniles were confirmed though. They are detailed below: Back Forest (High Forest Farm) Goldsitch Moss (two) Orchard Common (four) Back Forest Farm Gradbach area (five) Oxbatch (two) Barrow Moor Hayes (three) Pethills (three) Bennettshitch High Ash (four) Pyeclough Head Boarsgrove (two) Hole Carr (two) Reapsmoor (three) Boosley Grange (two) Hollinclough (two) Roache Grange Brandhole Kennels (two) Home Haylands (two) Roach House Farm Brune Mill (four) Keele Royledge Caltonmoor (three) Knar Spring Head Colshaw Knotbury (four) Summerhill Doley Common (one) Little Ferneyford (three) Swallow Moss (two) Dove Head (two) Lum Edge The Bent (five) Drystone Edge Meadows Farm, Thick Withins (two) Feltsitch Mermaid Inn Turn Edge Fernhill Merril Grove (four) Upper Brownhill (two) Flash (three) Morridge (three) Upper Hay (two) Five Clouds Musden Low (two) Upper Hulme Fleet Green (three) Nether Hay (two) Warslow Hall Frith Bottom (two) Oakenclough Hall (two) Wigginstall Other records of summering birds came from Black Brook, Bradnop, Dunston Heath, Levedale and five at Ipstones Edge. Foker Grange held sixty birds on March 8th and five

88 were present at Branston Water Park on July 10th. Smaller counts outside the breeding season came from a further 14 sites throughout the county. W Mid A good series of records from Marsh Lane NR with singles on March 4th, 7th, 13th and 17th and three on 6th, two flew over on May 22nd and further singles on June 22nd and 30th.

Whimbrel/Curlew W Mid Birds that were either Whimbrel or Curlew but not specifically identified were noted flying over Marsh Lane NR on May 1st and June 30th, whilst one was noted roosting at the site on July 17th.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant, very rare in winter. Warks Two records this year, of singles on spring passage at Fisher’s Mill GP on March 28th BLK, and at Brandon on May 12th RBW. Worcs Three birds were noted on spring passage with the first over Westwood Pool on March 29th. Another was at Kinsham Lake on April 28th and finally one at Upton Warren on May 8th. There were no autumn records. Staffs One was at Drayton Bassett on March 28th, a summer-plumaged bird at Croxall GP on July 4th while one at Doxey on October 13th was joined by three more on 14th- 15th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––367651–––– Coton 1–––––––––21 Dosthill/Kingsbury 55532––––454 Draycote ––11––14622– Ladywalk –13422––1––– Shustoke ––4144––––––– Grimley New Workings – – 5 10 6 2 – 1 – 1 1 – Gwen Finch ––75215–––––– Kinsham – – 4 7 9 21 2 – – – – – Ryall ––444613–––– Upton Warren ––388321–113– Alrewas GP ––2––––––––4 Baswich ––34–––––––– Barton GP 551183––––––1 Belvide 3 – 10 8 4 4 4 250 4 – 1 1 Blithfield 6 1 1 1 1 5 5 5 1 1 – – Branston GP 5312–2––1847 Branston WP 11–––––––1–– Coldmeece – – 1 2 2 – – – – – – – Croxall GP 2 19 10 6 3 6 3 – – – 9 6 Doxey ––5611942––1– Drayton Bassett 1 2 6 7 4 7 – – – – 3 1 Ingestre ––14–––––––– Milford – – 2 3 1 2 – – – – – – National Memorial Arboretum 1–––1––––2–1 Tittesworth –––23211––––

89 JFMAMJ JASOND Whitemoor Haye 1–7871––––194 Marsh Lane NR ––37721–1––– Sandwell Valley –1311––11–––

Warks The future for this species as a breeding bird in the county looks very bleak, with just four pairs located this year (cf. 10-11 in 2003) at: Brandon (two), Ladywalk (one) and Salford Priors GP (one). There was no evidence of breeding in the Kingsbury area, where there were five pairs as recently as 2002. On spring passage, the record of 14 at Shustoke on April 27th was thought to be the highest ever count from there. Return passage was largely restricted to Draycote. Away from the main sites, up to three were present on a regular basis at Abbots Salford during March-April, with one or two during the same period at Alvecote, Baginton, Charlecote GP, Coleshill GP and Lighthorne Pools. One flew through Napton Res. on July 10th, while a late bird was at Salford Priors GP on November 14th. Worcs Breeding season records were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick where up to two pairs were present in April and up to five pairs had returned to Grimley New Workings by late April but no young were seen and all the adults had departed by late June. A pair were also present at Ryall Pits. Better success was noted at Kinsham Lake, where four pairs probably bred, fledging twelve young. Elsewhere two were at Lower Moor on March 9th with a single on 24th, two on April 11th and May 3rd, while at Strensham Lagoons two were present on April 25th. Singles were also noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on September 24th and October 10th and one was at Westwood Pool the next day. Staffs On August 10th an unprecedented 250 birds at Belvide flew in from the east during a torrential downpour. Most flew off leaving 37 birds to rest on the north shore for the remainder of the day. This is by far the largest flock ever seen in the WMBC area, the previous highest count being 49 in 1990. The birds arrived on the same date as the exceptional flock of Turnstones at Blithfield. A pair hatched two chicks at Belvide on June 22nd but these were quickly predated. A pair with three chicks was seen at Croxall on June 3rd. Three pairs bred at Doxey: one failed at the egg stage, one hatched a chick which failed to fledge and the third fledged four juveniles. In May, two pairs were seen displaying at Whitemoor Haye and one pair at Doley Common, but breeding was not confirmed. Untabulated records came from flooded fields at Wychnor, six on January 13th, Westport on March 11th, Kings Bromley on 19th, two at Pasturefields on April 11th, Doley Common on 18th, Silverdale Colliery on 18th and 24th and Chasewater on July 10th-11th. W Mid During the breeding season up to three pairs were regular at Marsh Lane NR with one bird seen to be ‘sitting’ on May 31st, however no young were noted. Singles were noted at the Tarmac Quarries west of Meriden on April 28th; Stubbers Green on July 11th; Bartley Reservoir on July 20th; and at Frankley Reservoir on October 1st.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – – – 1 – 1 1 1 – 1 – – Draycote ––––––11–––– Kingsbury – – – 1 – – – 2 – – – – Ladywalk – – – 1 – 1 – 2 1 – – – Salford Priors GP – – – – – – 1 2 3 – – –

90 JFMAMJJASOND Grimley New Workings – – – – – – 1 16 – – – – Upton Warren ––11––27––1– Barton GP ––––2––1–––– Belvide –––12–121––– Blithfield –––11––81––– Branston GP –––1––––1––– Croxall GP – – – 1 1 – – – – – – – Doxey ––––1––32––– Drayton Bassett –––1–––1–––– Tittesworth ––––2–11–––– Whitemoor Haye ––––2––––––– Warks A very poor year, probably due to high water levels at most sites. Singles at Kingsbury on April 15th-16th, Ladywalk on 19th, Brandon on 30th and Alvecote from May 19th-22nd, were the only spring reports. One at Ladywalk on June 15th may have been a late spring bird. Return passage ran from June 27th-October 1st, with a maximum of only three at Salford Priors GP on September 12th. Away from tabulated sites, there were reports of one or two on a few dates during August at Alvecote, Hartshill STW and Shustoke, while further south there were singles at Earlswood on August 6th and Abbots Salford on September 12th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites the only spring records comprised singles at Kinsham Lake on April 29th, at Upper Bittell Reservoir and Lower Moor and on May 2nd and a different bird at the latter site from 3rd-9th. The autumn was typically more productive with singles in July at Throckmorton on 12th, Lickmoor Wetland mid-month, Upper Bittell Reservoir on 28th and Gwen Finch Wetland on 30th. In August singles were at Ryall Pits and Westwood Pool on 8th, whilst on the 15th three were at Throckmorton Lagoons with singles at Lickmoor Wetland and Ryall Pits. Further August records comprised one at Westwood Pool on 23rd and one at Clifton Pits on 29th. September records were all of singles, at Clifton Pits on 4th and 26th, at Gwen Finch Wetland from 7th-14th and Throckmorton Lagoons on 25th. The final record of the year was at Clifton Pits with one on November 21st. Staffs Untabulated records came from Alrewas Junction Pit on May 10th, Silverdale Colliery on 18th, Branston Water Park on June 26th and Ingestre on September 3rd and 24th. W Mid In spring, Sandwell Valley had singletons on April 29th, May 26th and 27th. Two were at Ryders Hayes Mere on May 3rd. One noted at Bartley Reservoir on July 14th. Sandwell Valley held single birds on July 17th and 28th, with two on 29th until 30th reducing to a single bird on 31st remaining until August 10th and further singletons on 17th and 24th. One at Marsh Lane NR on July 21st with further singles noted on seven dates in August with three present on 7th and a final bird on September 8th. Two were at Stubbers Green on August 15th with singles present on 21st and 28th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – 1 2 1 – 3 10 10 5 – – – Dosthill/Kingsbury 1 1 2 1 – – 3 2 1 1 1 1 Ladywalk 1 1 2 1 – 5 4 5 1 1 1 2 Lighthorne area 2 2 – – – – – 2 – – 3 2

91 JFMAMJJASOND Salford Priors GP 5 5 8 – – 3 10 17 8 5 9 4 Clifton 1–1––253321– Grimley 1 – 1 2 – 1 4 10 2 2 2 1 Gwen Finch ––1––39101––– Kinsham –––––––31––– Lower Moor – 2 2 1 1 – – 4 1 2 1 – Ryall ––1––253321– Throckmorton 112–––112131 Upton Warren – – – 1 1 13 14 27 14 4 2 – Barton GP ––11––24–––– Belvide ––21–3532121 Blithfield 11–––128–––– Branston GP 2163–2774222 Clay Mills STW – – – 1 – – – – – 2 – 1 Coldmeece 1 1 – 2 – 1 4 5 – – – – Croxall GP – – – – – – – – 3 – – 1 Doxey –––1––1711–– Drayton Bassett 1–22–3372––1 Ingestre 122––11–1423 Levedale –––1–11––––– Norton Bridge ––––––––––11 Rudyard Lake 1 – – – – – 1 1 – – – – Tittesworth – – – – – 2 1 4 – – – – Whitemoor Haye 2–31––––1–12 Marsh Lane NR 2222–24421–1 Sandwell Valley ––12––25––––

Warks Another very poor year at Brandon, and this was reflected in the Tame Valley. The main district for this species now appears to be shifting to the Salford Priors area. Away from tabulated sites there were peaks of three on floodwater by Baginton Airport on April 11th, four at Draycote on August 9th, and up to seven at Abbots Salford during December. Elsewhere, there were also reports of one or two at: Alvecote, Charlecote GP, Coleshill GP, Coleshill STW, Coombe Abbey, Hartshill STW, Haunch Lane flood, Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites the only spring record was of one at Bishampton Vale Pool on April 24th. Return passage saw two at Strensham Lagoons on July 4th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 7th, while in August two were at Wood Norton on 9th and 10th, one at Holt Prairies on 14th and at Lickmoor Wetland six were present on 15th, four on 21st and six on September 11th. Finally one was at Abberton on November 6th, 7th and 14th. Staffs Untabulated records include two at the National Memorial Arboretum on January 18th, two in the Tamworth flood relief channel at Kettlebrook Lakes on February 29th, singles at Handsacre Flashes on March 28th, Creswell on April 12th and Chasewater on 29th and May 1st. Autumn/winter records include one at Fisherwick/Elford GP on October 4th and three at Stableford on November 27th. W Mid One noted at the Tarmac Quarries west of Meriden on April 28th was the only spring record. Singles were seen at Dunstall Park Lake on June 3rd and August 14th, at Frankley Reservoir on July 6th and in Goscote Valley on August 5th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has over-wintered. Warks One at Brandon from April 28th-30th, was the only spring record. On return passage there were two at Alvecote on August 10th, one at Salford Priors GP on 15th, three at Brandon on 17th and one at a new pool at Morton Bagot on 19th.

92 Worcs All the records were confined to the first half of August with the first occurring at Grimley New Workings on 4th BS et al and another there briefly on 6th SMW et al. Elsewhere one was at Gwen Finch Wetland from 5th to 7th RAP et al, two at Upton Warren on 8th SMW et al and another there on 12th and 13th GHP et al. Staffs Twenty birds were reported this year (cf. 10 : 2001, 15 : 2002 and 8 : 2003). Spring passage commenced with one at Croxall on May 1st, then two at Doxey on 2nd, one of these staying until 4th and another on 12th. Then there were two at Belvide on 14th and one at Croxall on 15th. An early returning bird was at Blithfield on July 3rd, followed by one at Belvide from August 2nd-4th, rising to two from 5th-8th, then four from 9th-10th, one at Blithfield on 8th-9th, another from 11th-12th, one at Belvide from 12th-13th, two at Doxey 15th-16th with one remaining until 17th, one at Belvide from 16th-17th, another on 19th and finally at one at Drayton Bassett on 26th. W Mid Single birds were observed at Marsh Lane NR on May 7th and August 5th with two on 12th. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Fairly common passage migrant. Scarce summer resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –––22125–––– Draycote –––58292051–– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––125–14–––– Earlswood –––2–161–––– Ladywalk ––12––131––– Salford Priors GP ––––22252––– Shustoke –––31–241––– Bredonʼs Hardwick – – – 12 1 – 3 12 1 – – – Grimley – – – 3 1 1 13 3 2 – – – Gwen Finch – – – 1 – – 3 2 – – – – Kinsham –––––––31––– Lower Moor –––32–13–––– Throckmorton –––31–361––– Upton Warren –––4616962–– Westwood –––21–10––––– Aqualate –6–––13––––– Barton GP –––24253–––– Belvide – – – 14 2 2 12 11 4 – – – Blithfield – – – 6 2 8 32 18 3 1 – – Branston GP –––2––562––– Chasewater – – – 8 2 1 2 – 1 – – – Coldmeece – – – 3 1 – 4 5 – – – – Croxall GP –––11–2––––– Doxey –––111151––– Drayton Bassett – – – 4 3 1 7 4 2 – – – Gailey – – – 2 – 1 – – – – – – Knypersley Reservoir – – – – – 1 1 – – – – – Silverdale Colliery – – – 2 – 1 – – – – – – Tittesworth –––6610971––– Westport –––51––––––– Whitemoor Haye –––22–5–2––– Whitmore –––12––––––– Wolseley Bridge –6––1–––––11 Bartley Reservoir ––––––211––– Dunstall Park – – – 1 2 2 1 1 – – – – Marsh Lane NR 1 1 1 4 3 – 3 8 3 2 1 1 Sandwell Valley – – – 10 2 1 3 5 1 – – –

93 Warks A pair summered again at Salford Priors GP (where breeding occurred in 2002), but with no signs this year of any attempt to nest. Reports of singles at Lea Marston on March 7th, Ladywalk on 11th and then Kingsbury on 22nd, probably referred to a bird which had over-wintered in the Tame Valley. The first spring migrants began to arrive from April 10th, with a pronounced movement across the county on 16th. On return passage easily the best count was of 20 at Draycote on August 6th and 9th, with the last there on October 4th. Away from the main sites, up to three were also reported on odd dates at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Charlecote GP, Coombe Abbey, Coton, DMC Kineton, Hartshill STW, Napton Res., Packington, Seeswood Pool, Stratford (River Avon) and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Spring records away from the tabulated sites were of three at Upper Bittell Reservoir on April 16th, with one there on 25th, one at Upper Arley from 25th to 29th and two at nearby Trimpley Reservoir on May 4th. The autumn produced nine at Lower Bittell Reservoir on July 4th and singles at Upper Bittell Reservoir from 22nd to 31st and again on August 31st. Other July records were of singles at Upper Arley on 11th, Bishampton Vale Pool on 13th and 22nd, Strensham lagoons on 18th while four were at Ryall Pits on the 18th and three there on 25th. In August one was at Wood Norton on 10th and two again at Ryall Pits on 21st with one there on 29th. Staffs A pair was seen at Tittesworth with two chicks on June 9th, although with a maximum of four fledged juveniles present, it is likely that another pair bred. This is the only breeding report for the county. Possibly the first wintering records for the county came at the start of the year with six at both Wolseley Bridge on February 7th and Aqualate on 22nd and a single at Wolseley Bridge from November 26th onwards. Untabulated records of singles came from Essington Quarry Pool on April 10th, Brookleys Lake on 27th, Coal Brook (Hales) on 30th, Holden Lane Pools on May 1st, Rudyard Lake on July 3rd and Branston Water Park on 18th. W Mid One over-wintered at Marsh Lane NR for its third successive year – presumably the records relate to the same individual. The first was noted at Marsh Lane on March 7th followed by one in Goscote Valley on April 17th. Singles were at Ryders Hayes Mere on April 17th and May 1st.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius Very rare vagrant (0/10). W Mid A bird in summer plumage was found at Marsh Lane NR on June 19th and 20th PJ, LJ et al. This, for many, was the bird of the year and was, not surprisingly, a first for the West Midlands County and the fifth regional record.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant, Spotted Sandpiper, Marsh Lane NR, Andy Warr rare in winter. Warks Spring passage opened with a very early bird at Draycote on April 1st. In May, there was one on the new bund at Dosthill on 2nd, followed by a bird at Kingsbury from

94 10th-13th, two at Brandon on 12th (with one staying to 16th), four at Draycote on 13th and two at Dosthill on 26th. Return passage consisted of two at Draycote on both July 25th and August 19th, with two more at Salford Priors GP on August 29th. The year finished with an unusual record of a bird circling fields calling, tagged onto the end of a flock of Golden Plover, at Priors Hardwick on October 1st JJB. Worcs Single birds were at Lower Moor on May 12th and Kinsham Lake on 18th. Later in the year one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 22nd was followed by two there on 27th. Staffs An astonishing 28 summer-plumaged or moulting birds were present at Blithfield on August 10th, just beating the previous highest regional count of 27 in 1993. This coincided with the massive Redshank flock at Belvide during a period of torrential storms. This brought the total for the year to a high 50 (cf. 24 : 2003, 14 : 2002 and 18: 2001). Other records include two at Blithfield on May 9th, singles at Barton GP on 13th, Whitemoor Haye on 19th, Chasewater on 30th, Whitemoor Haye on July 5th, Branston GP on 29th, Blithfield on August 4th, with three at Branston GP on the same date, Blithfield on 9th, two on 13th, one on 22nd, rising to two on 23rd, three on 30th, two at Doxey on September 3rd and finally one at Belvide on 11th. W Mid A bird in full summer plumage was at Marsh Lane NR on May 2nd and 3rd. In autumn, a juvenile was at Marsh Lane NR on August 16th followed by three juveniles on 23rd and a single bird on September 17th.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Rare passage migrant (4/10). Staffs A juvenile visited Blithfield from August 23rd-28th MPR.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Rare passage migrant in autumn, often storm-driven. Very rare at other times. Worcs A first-winter bird spent the morning at Grimley Old Workings on October 25th SMW et al.

2001 Addendum Staffs A juvenile provided many observers with very close views at Chasewater from October 13th to 14th GE.

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Very rare in winter (8/10). Staffs At Belvide a dark-phase adult flew eastwards on July 8th BS and another flew over Chasewater at mid-day on September 29th PW.

Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus Very rare vagrant (2/10). Staffs A pale-/intermediate-phase juvenile of this much sought after bird was a superb find at Essington Quarry Pool on October 19th IC where it lingered for a while before flying off. The sixth county record, the last being at Belvide in 1994.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Fewer records at Draycote this year, which is probably due to less intensive watching at the evening roost. During the early months, there was an adult on January 5th, an adult and first-winter on February 5th, a first-winter on March 14th, an adult on 23rd

95 and finally a second-summer on 27th-28th. In the post-breeding period an adult and two juveniles were found here on August 2nd, with one or two juveniles present to 6th, and a first-winter bird on 24th. Surprisingly there were no more records until November 8th when two first-winters were seen in the roost. These were followed by an adult on November 19th, an adult and first-winter on 25th and a final adult on December 23rd. Away from Draycote, there was a first-winter in the Dosthill gull roost on January 30th, a surprise adult in breeding plumage at Brandon on July 11th with probably the same bird at Seeswood Pool on 14th, a first-winter at Alvecote on September 10th-11th, and a first- winter in the Coton gull roost on December 6th. Worcs During the first winter period adults were noted at Westwood Pool on February 8th, 9th, 16th and 21st, Throckmorton Tip on March 7th and Upper Bittell Reservoir on 13th. At least five individuals lingered at Bredon’s Hardwick during the spring, with an adult present on March 25th, two adults on 26th, a second-summer on 29th, two adults on 31st, a second-summer again on April 1st and 3rd, an adult on 5th and 6th, a first-summer on 7th and finally two second-summers on 11th. An adult was at Lower Moor on April 9th and a first-summer visited Upton Warren on May 23rd and 25th, this bird being only the second ever May record in the county. A first-summer bird seen briefly on fields at Grafton Flyford on July 11th, was relocated at Broughton Green latter the same day and then roosted at Upton Warren. This bird continued to roost at the Flash Pools, Upton Warren and was seen on most evenings until 28th, plus at midday on 27th. Apart from an adult on July 30th and a first-summer on August 6th and September 3rd, all remaining records from the Upton Warren roost involved juvenile birds. One was observed on July 27th, two on August 4th and 5th, then singles on 10th, 12th, 14th-20th, 29th and 30th. Other site records were of one on the River Severn at Grimley on July 14th, three different juveniles at Grimley New Workings on 20th, August 6th and 7th, a juvenile at Perdiswell, Worcester on July 30th and juveniles at Westwood Pool on August 6th, 10th and 31st and Upper Bittell Reservoir on 10th. The Gull roost at Westwood Pool held a first-winter on October 27th, an adult on November 21st, first-winter on December 1st, 5th-7th and 9th, an adult on 21st, 24th and the morning of the 25th. Other second winter period sightings were of a first- winter at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 20th and an adult at Lower Moor and Throckmorton Tip on 13th. Staffs The table below shows the total number of different birds seen during each month at the major localities. JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 000000234000 Blithfield 010000110101 Chasewater 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 A first-year bird was seen at Whitemoor Haye on April 12th, then relocated at Barton GP on the 13th where it stayed in summer plumage until May 24th. An adult was present at Tittesworth for ten minutes on February 18th, a site first, followed by a juvenile on July 25th. W Mid An adult was present in the Bartley gull roost on January 26th ARD was the only record for the first winter period. An adult was found in Sandwell Valley on August 1st and was present the following day. What was presumably the same bird was then identified on September 6th and was present on and off until December 1st being joined by a first-winter bird on October 13th and November 14th. A second adult was noted on November 13th. A juvenile was at Marsh Lane NR on August 1st and 2nd GPR et al and again noted on 20th and 21st GPR, DJS. A first-winter bird was at Marsh Lane NR on December 5th. A second- winter bird was in Dunstall Park on August 6th.

96 Little Gull Larus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks Although it was not as pronounced as in 2003, spring passage was again fairly good. It commenced with single adults at both Brandon and Dosthill on April 1st. Draycote then had up to four (two adults and a first and second-summer) on April 4th, an adult on 7th, two adults and a first-summer on 9th, with one adult and the first-summer still present on 10th, and then single adults on 16th, 18th and 24th. Passage was generally later in the Tame Valley, with two adults and a first-winter at Dosthill on 18th, a first-winter there on 22nd, and a first-summer on 27th and 30th. Three adults were at Kingsbury also on April 30th, with a single first-summer both there and at Fisher’s Mill GP on May 4th, followed at Kingsbury by an adult on 9th and three adults on 24th. Possibly the same trio were at Ladywalk on May 26th, with the final bird here on June 4th. Return passage was more modest. Draycote had single juveniles or first-winters on August 28th, September 11th and 22nd (two) and October 13th. Shustoke had a party of seven (adults and immatures) on October 12th, an adult and first-winter on 13th-14th, and an adult on 30th. The final record was of a first-winter at Dosthill on November 21st. Worcs A first-winter bird discovered at Westwood Pool on the morning of March 20th, was joined by an adults latter the same day and both, plus a second adult were present the following day. The first-winter had departed by 22nd, but the two adults remained on site until 24th and another first-winter was noted on 29th. Bredon’s Hardwick held a first- summer on April 23rd, two first-summers on 25th and yet another first-summer on May 12th. Return passage birds reported from Upton Warren, with one on July 17th, an adult in summer plumaged visited the River Severn in Worcester, Grimley New Workings and Upton Warren on 29th, a first-summer was at Westwood Pool from August 6th-9th, an adult at Upton Warren on September 5th and a first-winter at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 11th. During the second winter period an adult was observed throughout the day at Westwood Pool on October 21st and a first-winter spent most the day at Upton Warren and a second-winter at Westwood Pool on 23rd, the Westwood bird roosting at Upton Warren that same evening, where it was joined by an adult. Finally a first-winter visited Westwood Pool on October 27th and an adult was at Upton Warren on November 1st. Staffs Two adults visited Belvide on January 3rd, then an adult-winter was at Blithfield from March 13th-15th, three adult-winters there on 28th, one on April 3rd, two adults at Belvide on April 12th, then three adults and a first-summer on 18th, one at Blithfield on 23rd, two at Drayton Bassett on 29th with a first-summer from May 2nd-3rd, then an adult at Belvide on 14th. Return passage commenced with a juvenile at Blithfield on July 14th, another at Blithfield on September 6th, two at Chasewater on 13th, a juvenile at Belvide on 16th-17th, another at Blithfield on 17th, a juvenile at Doxey on October 4th (only the second record for this site), another at Belvide on 10th and finally a first-winter at Belvide on 30th. W Mid An adult was at Marsh Lane NR on April 18th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Throckmorton 2000 2300 5000 – – 150 70 85 350 800 3500 2800 Upton Warren 120 420 30 4 24 32 600 500 2000 2000 1400 350

97 JFMAMJ JASOND Westwood 4000 3600 2500 6 15 2 28 450 1100 3000 2500 4000 Bittell 192 103 3 – – – – 46 194 – 1000 224 Bredonʼs Hardwick 98 45 164 5 – – – 9 – 13 34 50 Aqualate 3000 – – – 34 – – – 800 – – 300 Barton GP 450 480 260 – – – – – – – – – Baswich (R. Sow) 130 50 – – – – 12 250 85 265 80 300 Blithfield – – – 50 – – 70 – 200 – – – Branston GP 450 480 260 – – – – – – – – – Chasewater 8000 5300 156 27 10 15 800 1600 3500 5500 750011000 Coldmeece 1300 800 – – – – – – – – – – Croxall 390 110 43 – – – – – – – – – Denstone Hall 2000 500 – – – – – – – 120 340 – Doley Common 525 150 – – – – – – – – – – Doxey 143 142 102 – – – 20 259 166 167 221 199 Hill Ridware 45 170 210 – – – – – – – – – Kings Bromley 138 280 72 – – – – – – – – – Tittesworth 3150 200 – – – – 170 100 60 23 600 1500 Wilnecote 300 – – – – – – – – 1500 – – Dunstall Park 600 2250 400 2 5 65 680 800 350 600 430 300 Marsh Lane NR 150 160 300 5 6 17 140 220 600 600 193 120 Sandwell Valley 1100 800 750 110 18 70 250 400 550 600 900 700 Warks There was a good breeding season at the Kingsbury gullery, although unfor- tunately there were no attempts to count the number of pairs this year. Two pairs bred at Brandon, one of which successfully fledged three young. The only roost counts came from Coton, which held 8000 on November 7th and 2250 on December 18th. Other counts included up to 1500 at Brandon in January, 700 on arable at Fenny Compton on March 19th, 1000 on pasture at Priors Hardwick on 30th and 900 moving south through Napton Res. (probably destined for Priors Hardwick) on April 2nd. The only large flock reported in the second winter period was 700 on fields at Fenny Compton on November 29th. A leucistic bird at Draycote from March 25th-27th was found again at Brandon on April 1st. Worcs The only records received away from the tabulated localities were 632 at Upton- Upon-Severn Southern Ham on January 5th and 800 at Tibberton on April 4th. Staffs Bred at Aqualate Flight Pool with 17-18 nests counted. The presence of several juveniles at Drayton Bassett on June 27th would indicate breeding occurred here too. Reported breeding at Catholme GP in May but no further details provided. An albino was present at Westport on March 15th-16th. Untabulated counts comprised 300 at Rickerscote between January and February when the river was in flood, 374 at Copmere on January 17th, 1500 loafing at Netherset Hey on February 1st, 459 at Quixhill Farm on 2nd, 1200 at Silverdale Colliery on July 28th and 1000 feeding in playing fields opposite the Fire Station at Knutton, (Newcastle) on August 24th. W Mid The 2250 counted in Dunstall Park in February was a site record count. In excess of 135 roosted at Olton Mere on January 3rd and over 200 were counted at Steelpark Way in Wednesfield on February 29th. March counts included 332 at Marsh Lane NR on 7th and 500 at Stubbers Green on 13th. In the second winter period 600 was the peak count from Marsh Lane NR in September and October while in excess of 250 were at Ladymoor Pool in Bilston on November 21st. Roost counts in November included 820 at Olton Mere and 4000 at Bartley Reservoir. A bird wearing three white rings on its right leg and one white ring on the left leg was in Sandwell Valley on October 16th.

Common Gull Larus canus Common winter visitor and passage migrant, principally to the south and east of the region.

98 Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Kinsham Lake 24––––––––142 Throckmorton Tip 2 18 10 70 – – – – – 2 3 2 Upton Warren 1–––––1––93– Westwood 9 9 42 – – – – 1 1 10 3 7 Bateswood Lake 7 23 13 – – – – – – 4 6 8 Belvide 21 – 16 – – – – – – 5 1 – Blithfield 121––––2––––4 Chasewater 20 25 3 1 1 – 2 2 – 2 10 20 Doxey ––9–––––1111 Silverdale Colliery 3 1 10 – 1 – 1 – – 2 6 5 Tittesworth 83242–––––––––68 Westport 1715116––––––––

Warks There were no counts of the huge Draycote roost this year; but feeding flocks from here of up to 250 were frequent during the winter months on sheep pasture along the south-eastern fringes of the county, from Grandborough south to Fenny Compton and west as far as Southam and Bishop’s Itchington. There were counts of 500 on February 1st and 450 on December 8th around Napton Res., where 1300 passed through to the south from Draycote on April 2nd. These birds were presumably heading for pasture fields at Priors Hardwick, where a flock of 800 on March 10th had increased to 1700 by 30th. Smaller flocks, generally fewer than 100, were recorded widely across the south of the county. In the north, where it is much scarcer, there were roost maxima of 17 at Coton, 50 at Dosthill and 30 at Shustoke outside the breeding season. There were no reports between May 8th (Draycote) and July 12th (two at Fenny Compton). Worcs A good passage of birds recorded between late February and early April, started with a flock of 200+ feeding in fields at Whiteleaved Oak on February 28th. At Bredon’s Hardwick, 20 were present on March 6th and numbers steadily increased throughout the month, with a maximum count of 1000+ on 27th, 500 were observed on April 7th and the last notable flock was of 150 on 11th. Bishampton Vale Pool held 60 on March 31st, 300 flew over Lower Moor on April 9th, 15 visited Grimley New Workings on May 12th and six were present at the latter locality on October 11th. Singles also observed at Castlemorton Common, Hollybed Common, Holt Prairies, Perdiswell, Strensham Lagoons and Upper Bittell Reservoir. Staffs Untabulated records include three at Quixhill on February 2nd, three at Branston GP on 22nd, Drayton Bassett on 23rd, three at Dosthill on March 31st, two at Coldmeece on April 4th, Whitmore on 17th, Branston GP on July 8th and 28th, four at Denstone Hall on August 28th and four at Netherset Hey on October 10th. W Mid Marsh Lane NR maintains its position as the County stronghold for this species. During the first winter period singletons were noted in Dunstall Park on 11 dates up until March 31st. In the first winter period two were at Trittiford Mill Pool on January 8th, three at Ladymoor Pool in Bilston on the 18th while in Sandwell Valley, singles were noted on nine dates up to March 16th.. A late summer bird was at Frankley Reservoir on July 18th while two were in Dunstall Park on August 15th followed by single birds there on October 30th, November 13th and 14th. One in Sandwell Valley on September 28th was followed by further singletons on October 13th, December 10th to 12th. Six were at Olton Mere on November 22nd. One was seen at Trittiford Mill Pool on December 20th while one in Willenhall Memorial Park on December 26th was the observer’s first record since first visiting the site in 1982!

99 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Very common passage migrant and common winter visitor. Fairly common and increasing breeding species since 1986.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJJASOND Bredonʼs Hardwick 93 45 164 17 – 5 7 – – – 24 80 Throckmorton 4500 1600 2800 400 400 1200 1200 2000 2500 3400 4500 4000 Westwood 4000 2750 2000 3 15 3 12 650 1100 1100 2000 2500 Aqualate 700 – – – – – – – 800 – – 500 Barton GP 4712––––––––– Belvide 3000 – 5 – – – – 140 511 – 800 – Blithfield – – 8 – – – – – 19 – 143 – Branston GP 20 4 11 – – – – – – – – – Chasewater 310 485 165 12 190 228 540 1200 1400 1650 1250 380 Coldmeece 162 11 – – – – – – 220 230 – – Denstone Hall – – – – – 12 – 250 – – – – Doxey 29 85 3 – – 44 – 2 – – 23 30 Tittesworth 24 – – – 70 55 1 – – – 70 6 Weaver Hills ––––––––2801730– Dunstall Park 40 37 20 6 16 10 8 51 60 30 20 7 Marsh Lane NR 12 15 4 15 50 11 18 19 6 45 – 10 Sandwell Valley 12 17 10 14 17 6 8 9 6 19 11 10

Warks In the Tame Valley, 575 were counted in the Dosthill roost on January 29th. Over 1000 were roosting at Shustoke during early October, but this moved first to Coton, where a peak of 751 on November 11th, and then back to Dosthill by the end of the year. There were no roost counts at Draycote, but a peak of 900 were recorded on the evening flight line over Fenny Compton on September 18th, heading there from the landfill sites near Banbury (Oxon). Farmland feeding flocks of up to 200 were widely reported, and larger ones included 500 at Lower Radbourn on August 28th, 600 at Stoneton on 30th, and 480 at Fenny Compton on September 7th. Worcs Many pairs continued to breed in Worcester City Centre, but no counts made this year (200 pairs bred in 2003), two pairs bred at Bredon’s Hardwick and a pair fledged three young at Kinsham Lake. Away from the tabulated sites, 600 were at Abberton on February 2nd, 500 at Tibberton on April 14th, 300 at Kinsham Lake on May 16th and 97 and 31 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on November 12th and December 13th respectively. Staffs No roost counts were received for Blithfield. Other high counts consisted of 100 on the River Penk at Rickerscote between January and February when it was in flood, 222 at Stanton Dale on July 14th and 400 feeding on silage spread on cereal stubble at Coton End on September 6th. W Mid Eight pairs were present in the Birmingham city centre area (Corporation Street area) during the breeding season (five pairs fledging young) – observer states that this was a 30% reduction in breeding numbers over 2003, and that works have been undertaken within the area to deter nesting gulls. Breeding was also believed to have taken place within Wolverhampton City Centre. Roost counts at Bartley Reservoir included 610 in January, 200 in June, 1100 in November and 1500 in December. Recorded throughout the year at Marsh Lane NR with a peak count of 50 in May.

ʻIntermediateʼ Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius Warks Adults considered to belong to this race were seen at: Fenny Compton (one) on September 18th, Chelmscote (five) on October 11th, Knightcote (one) on 24th and

100 Wellesbourne (four) on 27th. Most recent records have come from the autumn months suggesting there is some regular passage through the county at this time. Worcs Two or three individuals reported from Throckmorton Tip on many dates, during both winter periods, plus a count of 12+ was made here on July 27th. W Mid A third calendar year bird was identified at Frankley Reservoir on August 27th ARD. This individual had been colour-ringed as a pullus at Raunu Farsand, Vest-Agder in Norway on July 3rd 2002. During late August and September the finder of this bird noted ‘half-a-dozen’ similar birds with intermedius characters among assemblies of up to 200 graellsii.

2003 addendum Worcs A few adult birds were present at Throckmorton Tip in January, with one on 2nd showing characteristics of Baltic Gull. During the second winter period single adults were observed at Westwood Pool on November 4th, 27th and December 24th and at Throckmorton Tip on November 19th.

Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and an uncommon breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bredonʼs Hardwick 8 3 30+ 30+ – 2 2 – – – 9 2 Throckmorton 1000 100 50+ 60+ 15 50 – 10 – – 200 500 Westwood 350 300 100 2 1 – 1 2 16 45 100 175 Aqualate 31 – – – – – – – – – – – Belvide 550 – – – – – – – – – 60 – Blithfield – – – – – – – – – – 14 17 Chasewater 1800 295 5 1 4 2 1 1 40 220 330 2300 Coldmeece 450 30 – – – – – – – – – – Doxey –361––––––11– Stanton Dale – – – – – – 20 – – 30 – – Weaver Hills – – – – – – – – – 4 400 – Dunstall Park 57 80 1 – 1 1 2 3 1 6 10 30

Warks Winter roost counts included 420 at Dosthill on January 16th and 29th, and 1470 at Draycote on February 5th. On evening flight lines to the latter roost, 200 passed over Hodnell on January 4th; while at Fenny Compton numbers were higher than usual, peaking at 565 on 6th and 615 on 7th, before dropping to 290 on February 5th and 130 on 13th. In December numbers increased here from 20 on December 7th to a peak of 250 on 23rd. Breeding season reports appear to be increasing, and included up to eight at Earlswood Lakes on a regular basis during the spring and summer. Worcs A few pairs were observed in Worcester City Centre during the breeding season and almost certainly bred in small numbers (20 pairs in 2003). The only counts received away from the tabulated sites were at Kinsham Lake, with 50 on May 16th and 15 on September 19th. Staffs At Coldmeece on January 17th, a third-winter, partially leucistic bird was present in the roost, the main feature being a mottled mantle caused by half the feathers being white instead of grey. Other counts comprised 20 at Norbury Manor on January 4th, two at Croxall on January 23rd, ten at River Sow meadows, Baswich August 15th and three at Lower Stonnall on December 27th. One was at Tittesworth on January 18th and three on December 5th, where it is extremely uncommon.

101 W Mid Three pairs were present in the Birmingham city centre area (Corporation Street area) during the breeding season (one pair bred successfully). Five roosted at Bartley Reservoir on June 28th and 130 were present on December 29th. Occasionally reported from Marsh Lane NR with a peak count of 12 on February 14th. Small numbers, up to five birds, were noted in both winter periods in Sandwell Valley. One at Marsh Lane NR on November 26th showed characteristics of the Scandinavian race Larus argentatus argentatus.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote 42––––153138 Throckmorton 6 2 – – – 1 3 – – 4 8 5 Westwood 754–– 222656 Barton ––––11–1–––– Belvide 411––––11–14 Blithfield 1–––––––––13 Branston GP ––––312142–– Chasewater 3 – – – – – 11 18 1 1 2 4 All Staffs records 11 3 1 – 4 2 15 22 6 3 6 12 Frankley Res. –––––34331––

Warks Away from Draycote, there were up to three (two adults and third-winter) in the Dosthill roost from January 5th-30th; while there were more spring records than usual, including a first-summer at Napton Res. on March 17th, two adults at Cliff Pool, Kings- bury on 27th and again on April 16th, a second-summer at Alvecote on May 19th and a first-summer at Ufton Tip on 26th. Later in the year there was an adult at Birchmoor on July 20th, a first-winter at Farnborough on September 10th, an adult at Napton Res. on October 21st, and an adult in the Coton roost on November 7th. Worcs Continued to be a regularly visitor to both Westwood Pool and Throckmorton Tip, with the best counts made during the winter periods, see tabulated sites. Other records involved three at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 4th, one at Kinsham Lake on 6th, three and two at Lower Moor on 12th and 15th respectively, singles at Powick Ham on February 8th, Lower Moor on March 11th and Upper Bittell Reservoir on 14th. Grimley New Workings held an adult on May 6th and July 6th, one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 22nd and August 1st, one at Upton Warren on September 12th and 16th, then two here on 19th and singles at Kinsham Lake on October 14th and November 10th and Lower Moor on 16th. Other November sightings were of one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 3rd, two at Lower Moor on 20th and two at Wildmoor Tip on 30th. During December one was at Wildmoor Tip on 1st and 7th, then three on 22nd, singles at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 2nd, 9th and 26th, at Kinsham Lake on 3rd and 12th and Lower Moor on 20th. Staffs The highest count was of 18 birds at Chasewater on August 31st, a county record. In the first winter period two adults visited Aqualate on January 1st, an adult was at Coldmeece on 4th, an adult and 1st winter pre-roosting on 10th, a 3rd winter in the roost on 11th, two at Denstone Hall also on 11th, Drayton Bassett on February 23rd and Denstone Hall on 26th. Return passage birds were at Drayton Bassett on July 26th, a 4th summer at Silverdale Colliery on 27th and Tame Valley Industrial Estate, Tamworth on August 9th. In the second winter period two were present at Weaver Hills on November

102 12th, a regular adult roosting at Aqualate throughout December with two on 1st, and a single adult on ice at Copmere on 27th. W Mid Three roosted at Bartley Reservoir on December 3rd HK. An adult flew over Marsh Lane NR on February 1st with a further adult present on September 30th.

An excellent series of records from Frankley Reservoir by ARD is summarised in the table below:–

Date Age Number June 18th & 20th July 3rd calendar year 1 June 24th 3rd or 4th calendar year 1 June 25th & July 18th 4th calendar year 1 July 5th 3rd calendar year 1 July 9th Adult 1 July 14th Adult 1 July 28th 4th calendar year 1 August 10th 4th calendar year 1 August 27th Adult 1 September 2nd Adult 1 September 22nd Adult 1 September 24th First-winter 1 October 1st First-winter 1

Herring X Lesser Black-backed Gull W Mid A bird with field characters indicative of this parentage was present at Frankley Reservoir on June 21st, July 2nd, 12th, 26th and 28th ARD.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Rare winter visitor (5/10). Warks There were three acceptable reports: a first-winter in the Dosthill roost on January 16th ARD, an adult at Draycote from March 14th-17th REH et al, and another adult there on August 23rd JFCJ. Worcs First winter period sightings came from Throckmorton tip, with an adult present on January 3rd SMW, a fourth-winter on 4th GHP and an adult on 15th RAP, 25th RAP and 27th AW. An adult was also observed at Lower Moor on January 27th RAP and was believed to be the Throckmorton bird. Two December records involving adults at Throck- morton Tip on December 5th GHP et al and Westwood Pool on 20th and the morning of the 21st SMW et al. Staffs An adult at Belvide on November 13th SN flew off at 09.30.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks There was only one acceptable record, of a first-winter bird, at Draycote on March 27th JFCJ. Now we have lost our regularly returning adult, observers may have to struggle to see this bird in the county! Worcs An adult was discovered feeding at Wildmoor Tip on December 1st and seen again briefly on the 2nd SMW et al. Staffs In the first winter period, an adult and first-winter roosted at Belvide on January

103 2nd and 16th with the first-winter on its own on 14th and just the adult on 17th SN. Possibly the same first-winter bird was present at Blithfield on February 29th MPR. In the second winter period, an adult at Blithfield on December 12th MPR, Belvide on 23rd-24th SN and Chasewater from December 27th-31st, accompanied by a first-winter on 28th GE, BC, PJe, IW. W Mid An adult joined the gull roost at Bartley on November 29th ARD and was seen on most evenings thereafter until at least December 11th ARD et al. A first-winter bird was located in the Bartley gull roost on December 29th ARD and roosted again on 30th and 31st ARD, GJM et al.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor.

First-winter Glaucous Gull, Westport, Dave Kelsall

Warks A first-winter bird was in the Dosthill gull roost on January 21st ARD and 22nd TP. Another first-winter was in the roost at Draycote on January 22nd JFCJ, with an adult there on March 27th JFCJ and a first-winter on November 25th RCM. Worcs There were three records of first-winter bird during late December and may have involved the same individual. One roosted at Westwood Pool on 24th and was also seen the following morning SMW et al, one was seen on fields south of Frankley Reservoir on 30th SMW and at Throckmorton Tip on 31st RAP et al. Staffs A first-winter roosted at Chasewater on January 1st GE et al, 20th and 24th-27th GJM, BS, GE. Possibly the same bird was at Blithfield on 10th BC, ICW, MY. Meanwhile a well-travelled third-winter bird roosted at Coldmeece Pools on January 10th NDP, moving to Priorsley Lake (Shropshire) on 15th per NDP, then Blithfield on 16th ESC and Belvide on 18th SN. In the second winter period a first-winter bird occurred at Chasewater on November 21st GJM, MJI, SN and another at Westport on December 27th AH.

104 W Mid A first-winter bird was located in the Bartley Reservoir roost on December 25th AC and subsequently roosted on 27th, 29th and 30th ARD, GJM et al.

Glaucous Gull Hybrid Staffs A first-winter bird with oatmeal instead of white primaries was present at Blithfield on March 7th ESC

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bredonʼs Hardwick 12232–2––––2 Throckmorton 25 7 2 – – – – – – – 3 26 Westwood 8131–––––––19 Belvide 6712–––––––14 Blithfield 200–1–––––1––– Chasewater 575 97 1 – – – – 1 2 10 128 615 Coldmeece 45 5 – – – – – – – – – 2 Dosthill 1612–––––––––– Doxey –1–––1––––4– Drayton Bassett 64 18 – – – – – – – – – –

Warks There was a late winter peak of 62 in the Dosthill roost on January 21st, while 100 were estimated in the Draycote roost on December 27th. Away from the Tame Valley and Draycote only very small numbers were seen, with the largest counts of six over Charlecote on January 20th and a peak of 12 over Fenny Compton on February 5th. Most reports were during the winter months, with none between April 15th when an adult flew over Brandon, and July 19th when two adults were seen over Ufton Wood. Worcs The breeding pair returned to Bredon’s Hardwick, but as in 2003 the nesting attempt failed (bred successfully in 2002). Away from the tabulated localities, 10 were at Lower Moor on January 13th, two at Wood Norton Flash on 10th, 10 at Lower Moor on February 1st, an adult at Grimley New Workings on April 30th and one at Upton Warren on December 30th. Staffs A regional record count of 615 birds at Chasewater was made on December 31st. At Belvide, a single adult set up a winter territory from November where it was very aggressive to other roosting gulls. It also had a taste for Tufted Ducks. It would swim amongst the raft of sleeping Tufted Ducks then snatch and drown the unfortunate bird. This was seen on the 2nd and 24th. Untabulated records include four at Quixhill on February 2nd, five at Croxall GP and one at Barton GP on February 21st, Denstone on October 5th and two at Tittesworth on December 19th. W Mid At Dunstall Park, three flew over on January 4th, one over on 4th, three over on 24th and one over on February 8th. One was noted flying over Smestow Valley on January 18th. A first-winter bird was at Marsh lane NR on March 19th. In the second winter period, 12 were counted on Ryders Hayes Mere on November 3rd and 22 roosted at Bartley Reservoir on December 30th.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks A first-winter bird seen in flight over the M40 at the Chesterton services on

105 January 15th NJH was a good record. Spring passage produced a first- summer at Kingsbury on March 14th, up to two adults and a first-summer at Draycote on 27th-28th, and then single adults at Brandon on April 11th and Shustoke on 12th. On return passage, single birds were seen at Draycote on August 19th and September 13th, the latter a juvenile. Worcs A first-winter bird fre- quented the windsurfing pit at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 6th, an adult was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on March 13th and at Westwood Pool a breeding-plumaged adult was noted on 20th, a winter-plumaged adult on 21st and a first-winter from 22nd-30th. Two adults visited Bredon’s Hardwick on March 27th, an adult was at Westwood Pool on April 10th, an adult at Grimley New Workings on May 5th and another adult at Bredon’s Hard- wick on 13th. The only second winter period sightings came from Westwood Pool, with adults on October 13th and November 27th. Staffs Just 12 birds were recorded Kittiwake, Westport, Dave Kelsall this year. The first was a first-winter at Chasewater on January 16th. The remainder were adults and included one at Belvide on February 25th, two at Chasewater on March 13th and singles at Blithfield on 15th, Westport on 23rd, Belvide and Blithfield on 28th, Dosthill from 29th-31st, Belvide on April 16th and at Blithfield on November 7th and December 28th. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, three birds flew east on February 27th and an adult spent much of the day on Swan Pool on March 13th. An adult was at Marsh Lane NR on March 14th.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Warks Only one record received this year, making it the poorest since 1991. Two were seen at Fisher’s Mill GP and nearby Dosthill Lake on April 16th BLK. Worcs One seen briefly at Westwood Pool on March 20th WD was the only spring record. Upper Bittell Reservoir attracted three birds during August, with two present on 23rd and one on 31st KW et al and an adult was at Westwood Pool on October 13th WD et al. Staffs A good year with two at Blithfield on August 7th TH, RCB, one at Gailey on August 31st IM per ESC, SAR, eight at Blithfield on September 7th and one at Aqualate on September 12th JL.

106 W Mid One was heard calling over Marsh Lane NR on March 16th. One was on Fens Pools on March 24th and 25th while on October 9th, three birds spent approximately 45 minutes on Forge Mill Lake in Sandwell Valley.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant. Uncommon or frequent as a breeding species, mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys. Average dates: 10th April (20) to 8th October (20). The first bird, seen at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 3rd, was followed by one at Brandon on the 4th. The last birds were seen at Ladywalk on October 13th and Belvide on the 14th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote –––8273131––– Bredonʼs Hardwick –––42228–––– Grimley New Workings – – – – 2 2 5 12 – – – – Westwood Pool –––52236–––– Upton Warren – – – 1 4 6 14 30 – – – – Aqualate –––1–2412––– Barton GP –––101––30–––– Belvide – – – 2 3 3 14 24 4 1 – – Blithfield – – – 5 6 8 15 20 3 1 – – Branston GP –––1–––11–––– Branston WP –––––6–2–––– Chasewater – – – 3 7 3 6 5 – – – – Croxall GP – – – 2 8 2 2 – – – – – Doxey –––––21––––– Drayton Bassett –––7–8–––––– Gailey ––––––61–––– Rudyard Lake – – – – – – 3 – 1 – – – Tittesworth –––14131–––– Westport –––111111––– Sandwell Valley –––111550––––

Warks It was another record season at Kingsbury, with at least 50 pairs breeding on Canal Pool (cf. 47 in 2003). On just one June visit 52 pulli were ringed, while there were also 30 chicks too young for ringing and at least 30 unhatched eggs RCa. Our other breeding colony at Brandon had nine breeding pairs (cf. 11 in 2003), with at least 14 young fledging. Elsewhere, a pair summered again at Water Orton GP, while another pair feeding three young at Alvecote in July had probably bred elsewhere. Spring arrival was earlier than usual, with the first bird at Brandon on April 4th and 6th, while birds began arriving back in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area from 7th. There was a pronounced passage during the first few days of May, including 30 at Seeswood Pool on 1st and 4th. Small numbers were recorded during the summer months at most of the larger waters north of a line drawn from Earlswood to Draycote, but fewer than usual were noted at the latter site. South of here, there was a peak of 12 at Wormleighton Res. on August 10th where far more were seen this year than ever before. Others were noted in the south at: Abbots Salford, Chadshunt, Compton Verney, DMC Kineton, Fenny Compton, Napton Res., Ragley Park and Salford Priors GP. Autumn passage was very poor, with the last record (a juvenile) at Ladywalk on October 13th. Worcs A pair reared at single chick at Bredon’s Hardwick, a pair bred successfully for the first time at Grimley New workings, fledging one young and three pairs bred at Upton Warren. Bredon’s Hardwick held the first summer arrivals, with two present on April 3rd.

107 Other Spring reports away from the tabulated sites were of four at Arrow Valley Lake and one at Wassell Grove Pools on May 11th and singles at Kinsham Lake on 20th and 23rd. Late summer and autumn sightings included singles at Kinsham Lake on July 22nd, August 13th and 15th, 14 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 22nd, 12 on 23rd and 14 on 28th. One visited Throckmorton Lagoons on July 24th and the final record for the year came from Upper Bittell Reservoir, with four present on September 16th. Staffs First arrivals were at Blithfield and Chasewater on April 16th, the last being seen at Blithfield on October 16th. Breeding was confirmed at Barton GP and Catholme but no details were provided and Drayton Bassett where four pairs were on the shingle islands, with a juvenile seen on June 30th. A pair probably bred on the River Tame at Tamworth. Other records include two at Hill Ridware on May 9th, Alrewas Junction Pit on 10th, two at Whitemoor Haye in July and one at JCB North Lake on July 10th. W Mid Six pairs fledged eight young at Marsh Lane NR but. Sadly, this species did not breed at Sheepwash UP this year. One was noted along the canal in Broad Street, central Birmingham on July 10th. In spring, up to two birds reported at Stubbers Green in late April. Birds were regularly noted at Dunstall Park Lake, Common Tern, Westport, Dave Kelsall between June 2nd and July 27th, peak count of three, with some courtship feeding noted. Also reported from the adjacent Smestow Valley in July. Autumn birds were noted regularly at Stubbers Green from July 8th until 31st with a peak count of six. One was in with Black-headed and Herring Gulls at Tysley Recycling Centre in Birmingham on July 17th. One was at Ryders Hayes Mere on July 9th and another at Bartley Reservoir on July 14th. In excess of 50 birds in two flocks moved through Sandwell Valley on August 10th.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant in highly variable numbers. Warks Spring passage was the best since 2001, although mainly concentrated over two days (April 30th-May 1st). The first report was of a single bird at Dosthill on April 1st BLK, the earliest county record by two days; followed by another early bird there on 7th. The next report was of two at Draycote on April 17th, with 22 there on 18th, ten on 28th, 13 on 29th, two on 30th and around 100 on May 1st; which was the largest county flock since 1994. The Tame Valley produced up to five at Kingsbury on April 28th-29th and seven on 30th, when five were at nearby Dosthill. Earlswood Lakes also had a good spell, with single birds on April 28th and 30th, up to 15 on May 1st and up to three on 2nd. A flock of at least 40 passed through Brandon on April 30th, while four were at Seeswood

108 Pool on the same day and three on May 1st. The final records involved two at Dosthill on May 4th and two at Draycote on 8th. On return passage, an adult which appeared with Common Terns at Wormleighton Res. on July 9th after strong easterly winds, was the first at this site for some years. Three were seen at Alvecote on July 22nd. Later records involved juveniles, with one at Seeswood Pool on September 21st; two at Shustoke on October 6th, with singles from 7th-9th, and again on 13th; and a final bird at Alvecote from 15th-20th. Worcs A good passage of birds was recorded on April 28th, with three at Bredon’s Hardwick, 10 at Kinsham Lake, one at Upton Warren and 10 at Westwood Pool. The single bird remained at Upton Warren the next day and five frequented Upper Bittell Reservoir on 30th. A further two individuals were noted at Westwood Pool during May, with singles present on 13th and 21st. Autumn sightings were of two at Westwood Pool on July 17th, two at Bredon’s Hardwick on August 23rd, a juvenile at Upton Warren on September 14th and a second juvenile at Upper Bittell Reservoir from 14th-21st. More Juveniles were observed at Upton Warren on September 29th (two) and 30th, plus at Westwood pool on October 13th, 21st and 22nd. Staffs An exceptional spring passage produced at least 250 birds in the county. An early bird appeared at Dosthill on April 6th. Sightings from Belvide comprised one on April 17th, 15 on 27th, 18 on 28th, one on 30th, 50 on May 1st, one on 3rd, eight on 8th, two on 9th and ten on 12th. At Blithfield, 30 birds arrived at 4pm on April 18th, two on 23rd, 17 on 27th, 12 on 28th, seven on 29th, 5 on 30th, 33 on May 1st and one on 2nd. At Chasewater there was one on April 21st, 36 on April 28th, two on 29th, 12 on 30th, one on May 2nd, three on 3rd, eight on 8th and 10th. Other reports came from Barton GP on April 29th, one at Gailey on 30th and three at Whitemoor Haye on May 3rd. The peak dates were April 28th with 76 and May 1st with 83. Return passage commenced with an adult fishing at Doxey on July 18th, then two at Blithfield on 23rd and one on 24th, juveniles at Belvide on September 11th, Blithfield on 16th and 18th, Chasewater on 18th, Blithfield on 19th, Blithfield from 22nd to 30th, an adult at Belvide on 23rd, juveniles at Blithfield 25th-26th and Chasewater on 25th, an adult at Blithfield on October 4th, a juvenile there on 6th, an adult on 11th and finally one at Belvide on 14th. W Mid One flew through Marsh Lane NR on April 6th, five were at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 29th and two adults at Marsh Lane NR on August 13th.

Little Tern Sternula albifrons Scarce passage migrant. Warks There were four at Draycote on April 25th RCM, and one at Kingsbury on May 13th JKLA et al. Staffs Just one this year at Chasewater on May 12th GW, PW.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant. Warks Spring passage was the poorest since 1995, with perhaps just seven birds involved. The earliest was at Draycote on April 22nd. The Tame Valley claimed the remainder, with two at Fisher’s Mill GP on May 22nd, with probably the same birds next day separately at nearby Dosthill and Kingsbury. Up to four were at Dosthill on May 26th. Return passage was better with a small but pronounced influx on August 9th-10th. The first were eight at Draycote on July 29th and two were there on August 6th. On August 9th ten appeared at Brandon and seven at Draycote, while on 10th there were 11 at Dosthill, four

109 at Shustoke, and singles at Alvecote, Brandon and Draycote. Further records at Draycote included two on August 19th, three on 20th-21st, one on 22nd, nine on 23rd, one on September 2nd, three on 3rd, three on 14th-15th, and singles on 19th-20th and 22nd. Other singletons were noted during this period at Abbots Salford Pool on August 29th (the first recorded there), Dosthill on September 19th, and Earlswood Lakes from September 21st - 28th. Late birds were seen at Shustoke, with one on October 4th-5th, two on 6th, one on 7th-8th, and two again on 12th. Worcs No spring sighting reported this year, but small numbers were present during autumn passage. An adult was at Grimley New Workings on August 6th, an adults and a juvenile also at Grimley New Workings, one at Upper Bittell Reservoir and an adult at Westwood Pool all on 23rd. Two juveniles took up residence at Upton Warren from September 12th-23rd and a single remained on 24th, a juvenile was also at Throckmorton Lagoons from 15th-22nd and one was reported from Upton Warren on October 1st. Staffs First to arrive, a bird passing through Blithfield in pouring rain on April 16th, was followed by singles on 18th, 21st and 29th, then one at Chasewater on May 2nd, another at Drayton Bassett on 16th and two on 22nd. Return passage commenced with an early bird at Drayton Bassett Pits on July 8th, then a single at Belvide and three at Blithfield on 21st, with one there on 24th and one at Tittesworth on the 29th. The main passage took place in the Black Tern, Phil Jones first quarter of August with peaks of 15 at Blithfield, nine at Belvide and six at Aqualate on the 9th; three at Chasewater, four at Coldmeece and one at Westport on the 10th-11th and two at Barton GP on 11th. The peak numbers at Blithfield gradually tailed off until four were seen on the 18th. Thereafter there were singles on 23rd, 25th and 31st. There were fewer records in September with some birds staying for longer. Two stayed at Westport from 2nd-3rd, one was at Coldmeece on 3rd, a single at Blithfield on the 4th and another at Belvide from 4th-5th. There was a gap then until a single at Belvide on the 11th and two from 13th to 21st, singles at Blithfield on 12th and 14th with two remaining from 16th-20th. Meanwhile up to three remained at Chasewater from 12th-23rd. Finally one was seen at Blithfield on 28th while a juvenile remained at Doxey from October 4th-8th. W Mid Two were briefly at Marsh Lane NR on May 22nd. In autumn, a moulting adult was at Marsh Lane NR on August 19th followed by a moulting adult and two juveniles on 23rd and a further bird noted on September 17th.

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

2003 Addendum Staffs The bird present at Belvide Reservoir on July 17th SN was accepted by the BBRC.

110 Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Warks A maximum of 80 were feeding in fields at Shustoke on February 13th, while 100 were counted at the nearby Whitacre Waterworks on December 18th. In rural areas small numbers often join the winter feeding flocks of Wood Pigeons and Stock Doves, but more unusual was a party of 15 all identical to the wild Rock Dove type feeding in a newly sown field at Farnborough Park from February 27th –March 6th. Worcs Present in relatively large numbers in Worcester City throughout the year and 53 were counted at Nash End on March 4th. Staffs A flock of 250 birds was present at Keele University on November 20th. W Mid A flock of 65 was seen on the Wolverhampton market ring road on January 22nd. Small colonies were also reported from Smestow Valley. Stock Dove Columba oenas Very common resident. Warks Few flocks of greater than 60 were reported early in the year. The best were of 110 on fields at Shustoke on March 3rd, 67 at Birchmoor on April 9th (a record count there) and 190 in two flocks in the Avon Valley between Bidford and Marlcliff on 22nd. It was much more numerous in the autumn, at least in the south. After a good-sized party of 85 at Morton Bagot on September 21st, there were five flocks in November of 100 or more; with maxima of: 250 at Chesterton on November 4th, 300 at Fenny Compton on 6th, 125 at Radway on 10th, 140 at Abbots Salford on 14th and 100 at Combrook on 26th. As in other recent winters, the timing of these counts suggests an influx of birds from outside the area. There was nothing of note from the north, although a party of 30 at Seeswood on December 23rd was said to be a record count for the local area. A creamy-white leucistic bird with just faint markings was resident with normal birds at Fenny Compton from January 26th-April 6th. Worcs Five pairs bred at Tibberton, which was the same total as in 2003, two to three singing male were recorded along the Dowles Brook and two singing males were at Stoke Bliss on May 14th. Flocks reported during the first half of the year were of 60 at Westwood Park on March 19th, 40 on Bredon Hill on April 1st, 16 at Upton Warren on 20th, 35 at Grimley New Workings on June 4th and 17 at Throckmorton Tip on 20th. Three counts received for November, with 100 on Bredon Hill on 14th, 10 at Stoke Bliss on 18th and 37 at Chase End Hill on 27th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Belvide and single pairs at Denstone Hall, Handsacre, Wootton and Weston Jones, where they used an old Barn Owl box. Larger counts com- prised 25 at Coldmeece on January 6th, 20 at Blithfield and Toad Hole Bridge on February 7th, 54 at Coldmeece on 29th, 23 at Hixon Airfield on March 13th, 29 at Whitmore on April 6th, 50 at Little Stoke on May 2nd, 32 at Silverdale Colliery on July 2nd then 30 on August 8th and 59 at Chasewater in November. W Mid Noted in the breeding season from Marsh Lane NR (at least two pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot (six territories), Smestow Valley, Turls Hill and Sandwell Valley. 33 were at Dunstall Park on September 25th. An impressive count of at least 200 was made at Marsh Lane NR on October 10th. 65 were counted at Catherine-de-Barnes on November 11th. Also reported from the Grange Farm/ Ryders Hayes Mere area and along Smestow Valley. Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks There were at least 16 breeding territories on 120 ha of mixed farmland at

111 Morton Bagot. Outside the breeding season, flocks of up to 800 were widely reported. During January there were totals of around 1000 roosting at Brandon, Itchington Holt and Lower Radbourn; while the same number were on the Shuckburgh Hills on March 9th. Autumn counts were higher and included peaks of 2500 at Fenny Compton on November 6th and 1650 at Priors Hardwick on December 2nd. In the latter flock there was also a true albino bird and a creamy-white leucistic bird present. Worcs The only breeding data received was of 28 pairs at Tibberton. The largest counts made were of 260 at Tibberton on January 1st and March 9th, 200 and 300 flew over Winyates East, Redditch on October 18th and 19th respectively, 500 were reported flying south over Lower Moor on 27th and 150 were on Bredon Hill on November 14th. Staffs Fourteen pairs bred at Doxey. Significant numbers were recorded flying south on migration at Black Bank during the period October 26th-November 14th. All counts were made in the first two hours of daylight, usually coinciding with winds with a northerly element: 4740 on October 26th, 1540 on 30th, 2000 on 31st, 1200 on November 2nd, 1300 on 5th, 2550 on 13th and 3600 on 14th. A change from cold to warm weather resulted in 4800 flying north on November 22nd, then 1850 east on 27th and 2000 south again, in colder weather on 29th. 300 flew west at Doxey on November 14th and 1000 north over Hanchurch Woods between 8.00-8.30am on 25th. In the first winter period flocks of 150- 300 birds were seen at Baswich, 500-950 at Coldmeece Pools, 330 at Flashbrook Grange, 1000 at Little Aston and 150 at the National Memorial Arboretum. 250 were recorded at Chasewater in August. In November, 150 flew from a roost at Little Stoke, 500 at Hanchurch Woods, 1600 at Tittesworth Reservoir, 200 at Belvide and 500 at Heaton. A leucistic bird was seen at Belvide on December 26th with possibly the same bird recorded on September 6th 2002 at the same location. W Mid A pair was noted copulating in Smestow Valley in late December. Records of flocks consist of 50 at Olton Mere on January 23rd, 200 in Sandwell Valley in January, 60 feeding on poplar Populus sp. buds in Smestow Valley on February 24th, 200 in the Daniels Lane area of Aldridge on March 13th, in excess of 200 in Dunstall Park on July 24th, 300 in Sandwell Valley in October, 200 at Marsh Lane NR on December 16th and 60 at Edgbaston Reservoir on December 21st.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks No breeding data received. The largest parties were of only 24 at Chesterton on January 27th and 27 at Tomlow on September 29th. Worcs Twenty-five pairs were believed to have bred at Tibberton, four more than in 2003. Common across the county, with the best counts being 40 at Abberton on February 14th, 38 at Welland on July 9th and 19 at Lower Moor on September 19th. Staffs Double-figure counts came from Chasewater in January with 12 present and from the National Memorial Arboretum on November 28th and Belvide on December 1st with 13 at each. A part leucistic bird remained in the Westlands from the start of the year until January 17th, when it was taken by a Eurasian Sparrowhawk. W Mid The only breeding data of any merit came from Mons Hill CBC plot (five territories). Numbers were reported to be ‘stable’ along Smestow Valley while 21 were counted at Forge Mill Farm in Sandwell Valley in November. Small numbers were noted throughout the year at Marsh Lane NR.

112 Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Frequent or fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant, mainly to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Average dates: 26th April (69) to 24th September (69). Finding any birds in most counties is a struggle but the first was seen at Castlemorton Common on April 25th and the last at Grimley on September 12th. Warks Records indicate a poor year for this declining bird, although some of its southern strongholds had little or no coverage. In the north there were two pairs during the summer at Kingsbury (cf. four in 2003), with one of these rearing young. A pair was also seen at Ladywalk in the breeding season, with singles at Brandon on May 23rd, Ensors Pool (Nuneaton) on 31st and at Coton during July. In the south only 14 probable breeding territories were located (cf. 51 in 2003, 40 in 2002), with singing males at: Charlecote GP, Compton Scorpion, DMC Kineton, Hodnell, Priors Hardwick (two), Priors Marston, Salford Priors GP (two), Ufton Hill, Ufton Wood, Willoughby (two) and Wolfhamcote. Worcs Successful breeding was confirmed by the presence of juveniles at Grimley, Lower Moor, Ryall Pits and Throckmorton Tip. Singing males also reported from Broadway Gravel Pit, Castlemorton Common, Church Lench Pools, Fladbury, Hipton Hill, Hollybed common, Huntsbridge, Lenchwick, Midsummer Hill, Sheriff’s Lench and Storridge during May and June. Birds were still present at most the aforementioned sites during July and August, plus additional sightings of single birds, other than stated came from Strensham Lagoons on July 4th, Bredon Hill on 7th, Pinvin on 24th, three at Wyre Piddle on 25th, Gwen Finch Wetland on 26th, two at Wiseman’s on August 10th, Upton Warren on 12th and Holt Church on 28th and 29th. Additional maximum site counts of adults included three at Grimley Church, five at Grimley New Workings, four at Grimley Old Workings, four at Grimley Triangle, four at Lower Moor, six at Ryall Pits and three at Sheriff’s Lench. The final record for the year came from Grimley New Workings, with one on September 12th. Staffs Recorded at just two sites with no evidence of breeding. One was present at Drayton Bassett Pits from 26th May until the end of June, then again on July19th with four present on 22nd. A male was seen at Burnt Wood on June 3rd and was heard calling from conifers during most of July. W Mid Two flew low over Smestow Valley on May 4th – the fourth site record and the first since 1983!

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor which has bred. Warks One at Ladywalk from April 1st-4th BLK et al was thought to be roosting at nearby Lea Marston. Probably the same bird was reported from Kingsbury on April 30th NDBC. Worcs Singles were observed at Grimley New Workings on August 14th BS and October 10th ROB. W Mid The pair of birds that was present in the Mere Green area during late 2003 was again noted in the vicinity up until late February at least. One was seen on overhead wires in Smestow Valley on August 9th another flew over Marsh Lane NR on September 26th – the first record for the reserve while two flew over Sandwell Valley on December 4th with another noted on 13th.

113 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Average dates: 11th April (68) to 5th September (67). The first was ahead of the average on April 3rd at Wyre Forest. Always difficult to find in the autumn, the last was reported from Seeswood on August 17th – a rather early date. Warks A better season was apparent in several parts of the county, with 18 on the DMC Kineton May count being the best from there since 2000 (when 21 were present). Also in May there were up to six calling males between Spernall and Morton Bagot, and four at Brandon. Despite these figures, the general trend still appears to be downwards and few other sites held more than one or two. Two breeding records were reported, with a chick being fed by Pied Wagtails at Fenny Compton on June 13th and another by Common Whitethroats at Grandborough on July 10th. Three juveniles together in an oak tree at Salford Priors GP on August 15th was very unusual, while the last report was of a single juvenile at Seeswood on 17th. Worcs Juveniles were reported from just four localities, those being Kinsham Lake on July 9th, Gwen Finch Wetland on 18th, Grimley Old Workings on 25th and North Valley, Malvern Hills on August 1st. A total of 42 singing males was reported from 33 localities, all but seven being from the southern half of the county. Multiple counts of singing males were recorded at Castlemorton Common (two), Gwen Finch Wetland (two), Lower Moor (three), Sheriff’s Lench (three) and Strensham Lagoons (two). Staffs Widely reported throughout the county during the breeding season with the exception of large areas between Stafford and Stoke and again between Stoke and the Moorlands where records were sparse or absent. The first report was from Belvide on April 17th with a steady trickle of observations throughout the season. The greatest numbers were recorded on Cannock Chase. Here, five were at the Katyn Memorial on May 22nd, six in the Sherbrook Valley on 27th and five at Brockton Coppice on the 28th. Away from the Chase the only other significant grouping was at Hanchurch Water Tower where five birds were seen and heard on May 31st. The majority of sightings had ceased by July 11th with a single outlier at Blithfield on August 1st. W Mid Few records of proven breeding are received for the West Midlands County, so a juvenile being fed by a Dunnock in a private garden half way between Cheswick Green and Shirley on July 11th was noteworthy. A further juvenile was noted at Marsh Lane NR on August 15th (recorded almost daily between April 23rd and May 20th). Calling birds were reported from Sandwell Valley on April 15th, 16th and May 16th until 18th, Bills Wood in Shirley on May 2nd (two), Dorridge STW on May 16th, Lutley Wedge on May 18th and 21st, Smestow Valley on May 26th and 28th and Blythe Valley CP on May 28th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent, but much declined, resident. Warks In the north of the county three pairs reared 13 young in nest boxes in the Tame Valley, and a further pair was successful at Mancetter. Three-five pairs were estimated present in the north-east, while in southern and central areas there were an estimated 50 territories, although not every nest site can be checked each year. With better coverage in the north the county total could now exceed 60 pairs (cf. 55 in 2003), suggesting the population is still expanding. Late breeding was recorded at DMC Kineton, where a pair and two newly-fledged young were seen on October 31st; presumably taking advantage of the high autumn vole population. Worcs No doubt vastly under recorded as a breeding species in the county and unfor -

114 tunately only two nesting pairs were reported. A pair fledged five young at Lower Moor, one of which was found dead on November 29th and another pair bred successfully at Upper Arley. Other sighting during the breeding season came from Conderton, Grimley New Workings, Feckenham, Welland and Westwood Pool. Sighting during the first winter period came from Hinton-on-the-Green on January 1st, Throckmorton Airfield on 10th, Bredon’s Norton on 24th, Droitwich on February 12th, Tibberton on 19th, Castlemorton Common on 22nd, Bradley Green on 27th, Throckmorton Airfield on 28th and Bredon Hill on March 17th. Records increased a little during the autumn and second winter period, with singles other than stated at Abberley, Bredon Hill, Conderton, Grimley New Workings, Kyre Pool, Lower Rochford, Pensax, Radford, Sheriff’s Lench (two), Stoke Bliss, Stoulton, Throckmorton Airfield, Upton Warren and Worcester. One was found dead at Trimpley in December. Staffs Scattered records came from throughout the county (see map). Although reported from some 50 sites, breeding was only confirmed at Easing Farm near Thorncliffe (with four young raised), Gailey, Lower Lady Meadows (in a nest box) and Sugnall Park. In addition there was “evidence of breeding” (no details) at Okeover and an immature bird was found dead under power lines at Calton. Given the sedentary nature of this species and its small foraging range the number of records would suggest that breeding is probably rather more frequent. Although the vast majority of records were of single birds three were reported for the Seighford area in June. Two winter roosting sites were identified; at Penn Golf Course in a hollow oak and at Prince Farms near Kings Bromley. W Mid One was noted adjacent to Bartson STW, Eastcote on February 5th.

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common resident. Warks Reported at over 80 sites, with breeding pairs located at: Avon Dassett, Bishop’s Itchington, Butlers Marston, Chadshunt, Cubbington, Earlswood, Farnborough, Hunning- ham, Kenilworth, Maxstoke, Morton Bagot (three), Oxhill, Packington Park (at least three), Pillerton Hersey, Radford Semele, Ratley, Stoneleigh and Tysoe (three). Only four territories were thought to be still in use at Fenny Compton, compared with ten in 1995 and seven in 2000. Worcs Four pairs believed to have bred at Tibberton, a pair fledged three young at Lower Moor and a pair bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum. A notable decline had been reported from Stoke Bliss in recent years and no birds were recorded this year. Other reports during the breeding season came from Barnett Brook, Besford, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon Hill, Bredon’s Norton, Church Lench, Dunhampstead, Grimley New Workings, Hill Furze, Kempsey, Kinsham Lake, Malvern Hills, Nash End, Oddingley, Portway, Sheriff’s Lench, Upton Warren, Wassell Grove Pools and Westmancote. Noted at a further 16 localities outside the breeding season.

115 Staffs This is a common bird with records scattered the length of the county. As in previous years it bred successfully at Belvide and there was also confirmed breeding at Brindley Ford, Checkhill and Hanchurch. A pair was seen in the same oak at Keele from February to July and again in December but no juveniles were seen. A pair was recorded on January 24th at Dunston Heath on a 2003 nest site but, although birds were seen again in March, June and July there was no indication of breeding. Birds were seen, or heard calling, at a further 39 sites. W Mid Breeding season records were received from Aldridge, Marsh Lane NR, Minworth/Wishaw area (at least two locations) and Sandwell Valley (four pairs). One was heard frequently in the Clayhanger/Ryders Hayes Mere area between September and December and it was noted in the Smestow Valley in March. Tawny Owl Strix aluco Fairly common resident. Warks Very well reported this year, with records from 63 sites fairly evenly distributed across all parts of the county apart from the north-east, which is very under-recorded. Pairs were confirmed breeding at: Ash Green (Exhall), Avon Dassett, Brailes Hill, Brandon, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Hams Hall/Ladywalk (two), Itchington Holt, Kenil - worth, Warmington, Weston Park and Wormleighton Res. One heard at Birchmoor on November 27th was the first recorded by the observer there for 12 years. Worcs Three separate family parties were found at Arley Wood in July, a pair fledged two young at Abberton and a nest box pair fledged two young at Bodenham Arboretum. Reported from an additional 16 localities, including three calling at Callow Hill, Wyre Forest on May 30th. Staffs Although recorded throughout the county, there were rather fewer reports of the species from the middle and north-east of the county than there have been in previous years. The first reports of breeding were from Belvide in May with a pair in the plantation hatching two chicks, one of which died on May 15th, whilst a pair in Gazebo Bay raised one chick. At Ingestre a fledgling was seen with two adults on May 11th; the juvenile was seen being fed on 13th and 15th and first flew on 16th. Other breeding sites were Lichfield, where there was one juvenile on May 23rd, Chasewater, with two juveniles on June 11th and Apedale, where two juveniles were seen on July 27th and three raised by another pair on August 14th. Birds were also reported from a further 34 sites. W Mid Noted in the breeding at Bilston cemetery (present throughout the year), Earls- wood (Norton Lane), Harborne, Meriden, Salter Street (near Cheswick Green) and Sandwell Valley. In January a pair was noted calling from Lutley Brook and it was also reported from Clayhanger. Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks Breeding was proved for the second year in succession, when three newly fledged young were found calling in a conifer plantation at a south-eastern site on May 9th JJB, MJL. Outside the breeding season there were reports from just two sites, again in the south-east. A single bird at Fenny Compton on January 1st-2nd JJB, was probably the bird later found roosting at nearby Wormleighton Res., where it was present from February 17th-March 5th JJB et al. In the evening this bird would hunt over rough grassland up to one kilometre or more away at nearby Farnborough. Worcs One was at Oakley Marsh from October 16th and was still present at the year’s end PH.

116 Staffs The winter roost at Park Hall was active with birds being reported throughout January and February, with a maximum of seven noted on January 1st. Two pairs were reported to have bred at Park Hall whilst on Cannock Chase adults were seen with prey. Breeding was confirmed at a further four sites and suspected at one; locations withheld.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeding species. Warks The only report from the first quarter was of a spring migrant at Draycote on April 30th. In the autumn the first of a moderate influx was seen at Draycote on September 29th, with further sightings there of perhaps the same bird on October 13th and 16th, and again on December 3rd. Up to three were hunting and roosting in set-aside at Priors Hardwick from October 31st onwards, increasing to four in December. Four were also found roosting in rough grassland at Hillmorton from early December, increasing to five on 31st. Elsewhere, single birds were seen at Brandon on October 30th, and at Alvecote and in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area during November-December, with two roosting in a plantation at Oxhill during the same period. Worcs Singles were seen on Bredon Hill on January 1st, 4th and 9th, at Vale Business Park, Evesham on October 2nd, two at Throckmorton Airfield from 31st-November 3rd and at Bredon’s Hardwick on 9th. Staffs There were no reports of actual or potential breeding this year although birds were seen in all months except August. The early part of the year saw single birds at Whitemoor Haye on January 1st and 18th and on February 28th and at the National Memorial Arboretum on January 18th. Single spring and summer birds were seen at Black Bank, Boarsgrove, Croxall GP, Gailey, Mermaid Inn, Middle Hills, Morridge, Round Knowl Farm, Royal Cottage, Tittesworth, Upper Hulme and Warslow. In the early autumn a bird was seen at the Mermaid Inn on September 24th, then Drayton Bassett Pits had a single bird between October 1st and 23rd with two birds on the 29th and on Cannock Chase there was a single bird on Anson’s Bank and two in the Sherbrook Valley on 31st. During November and December honours were split between Aqualate and Cuckoo Bank, both of which had birds throughout; Aqualate with a maximum of four on December 12th, and Cuckoo Bank with nine on December 11th. Singles were also recorded during this time at Alrewas, Black Bank, Blithfield, Croxall GP, Knotbury, Norton Canes, Oxbatch, Revidge, Swallow Moss and Whitemoor Haye. W Mid After a dearth of records over recent years there was an upsurge from Sandwell Valley with birds noted on January 9th, May 3rd (found exhausted, taken into care at the RSPB centre and released the next day), May 28th, June 4th, August 31st and September 4th. In the Clayhanger area, singles were noted on November 22nd, 24th, 25th with two present on 23rd.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon to frequent, but very local summer resident, mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant. Average dates: May 16th (61) to August 23rd (43). Warks A churring male was at a site in the Stourton area from June 2nd-21st per GM-K. Staffs All of this year’s records were from Cannock Chase where the first bird was heard at Pottal Pool on May 15th. Nightjars were recorded at 13 sites on the Chase, all in

117 single figures with maxima of five in the Sherbrook Valley and seven at the Shooting Butts, both in June. Reported sightings ended quite abruptly at the beginning of August with the last male being seen on the 5th.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 23rd April (70) to 26th September (70). There was a very early arrival with birds being seen at Drayton Bassett Pits, Blithfield, Belvide and Doxey on April 16th, Brandon on 17th and British Camp on the 18th. Late birds were seen at Avon Dassett and Sandwell Valley on September 22nd with a very late bird at Belvide on October 3rd. Warks A good breeding season was reported from Fenny Compton, with at least 50 pairs on territory (cf. 45 at the last count in 1999). A similar pattern of arrival to last year was apparent, with the first birds noted at Brandon (two) and Shustoke on April 17th. Next day there were two at Draycote and three at Ladywalk. Single figure numbers occurred daily at Draycote until 30 appeared on 26th and 50 on 27th, followed by a rapid build-up to 500 on 28th-29th, 1000 on May 1st and 1500 on 8th. Similar numbers appeared in the Tame Valley at this time, with 200 at Dosthill on April 29th and 600 there on 30th, when 1000 were estimated at Kingsbury. Among the larger summer flocks were 300 at Ladywalk on May 27th, 220 at Salford Priors GP on June 20th, 600 gathering over the Leam valley at Hunningham just before a shower on July 5th, a peak of 350 at Fenny Compton on 8th and 300 between Charlecote and Wasperton on 14th. Return passage was noted at Whitacre Heath on July 30th, when 600 flew south. Birds stayed later than average and there were a good number of September records, with the last birds at Earlswood Lakes from 18th-21st and Avon Dassett on 22nd. Worcs No breeding data received. Small numbers began to trickle through the county from April 18th, when one was seen over British Camp and Pinnacle Hill, Malvern Hills. Two visited Upton Warren the following day, singles were at Castlemorton Common and Ryall Pits on 25th, five at Kinsham Lake on 27th, two at Upper Arley on 29th and 28 over Worcester on May 1st. A flock of 58 birds were noted at Tibberton on July 4th, Grimley New Workings held 11 on August 11th, three flew over Malvern Link on September 1st, three at Gwen Finch Wetland on 19th and three at Upton Warren on 20th. Staffs The first birds of the season, all singles, were reported from Belvide, Blithfield, Doxey and Drayton Bassett Pits on April 16th followed by a steady trickle of records until late April when numbers rose sharply. There were only two reports of breeding, one at Ellastone and the other at West End (Stoke). The largest migration numbers were in the spring, with 400 at Belvide on April 28th and 200 at Tittesworth on the 29th whilst early May saw 300 at Belvide and 150 at Gailey on the 1st and 1000 at Belvide on the 4th. The only significant summer record away from the large water bodies, which had substantial feeding flocks, was at Brocton Coppice, where 200 were seen on May 28th. The autumn migration was a more leisurely affair with only two reports into three figures; 200 at Aqualate on July 25th and 250 at Doxey Marshes on August 1st. The autumn migration was also protracted, birds being seen throughout August and September and finally on October 3rd at Belvide, the latest ever record for this site. W Mid An estimated 1200 birds were counted over Forge Mill Lake in Sandwell Valley on April 29th. In excess of 100 were regularly recorded at Marsh Lane NR throughout June. 20 were at Edgbaston Pool on June 19th. Also reported from Bartley with late birds on September 16th.

118 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Warks Pairs bred at: Alvecote (two), Barford, Brandon (two), Charlecote, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Guy’s Cliffe, Ladywalk, Little Alne and Sherbourne. In the breeding season it was further reported from: Chesterton, Earlswood, Eathorpe, Hunningham, Kenilworth, Kingsbury, Lighthorne, Newbold Comyn, Offchurch, Preston Bagot, Salford Priors, Snowford, Wootton Wawen and Wormleighton. It was widely reported outside the breeding season, with sightings even in the built-up areas of towns such as Leamington Spa, Nuneaton and Rugby. Worcs One possibly two breeding territories held along the Dowles Brook and reported to have bred at Lower Moor. Additional sightings during the breeding season came from Aileshurst Coppice on the Carey’s Brook, Bredon’s Hardwick, Grimley, Kyre Pool, Lower Norchard on Dick Brook, Pershore on the River Avon, The Knapp, Trimpley Reservoir and Upton Warren. Also present throughout the winter months at most the aforementioned localities, plus additional post breeding and winter observations came from Abberton, Bishampton Vale pool, Bittell Reservoirs, Bransford, Broadway Gravel Pits, Diglis Lock, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Stanford Bridge, Strensham Lagoons, Throckmorton Lagoons, Upper Arley, Westwood Pool and Wilden Marsh. Staffs Only two breeding localities were mentioned by recorders in 2004 with birds at Doxey Marshes and at Little Haywood where the nest was lost due to a bank collapse. Other breeding season reports came from Blithfield, Croxall GP, the River Dove, the Meece Brook, Tittesworth, and Tixall. Again, widely reported throughout the county during the other months of the year with 52 different localities mentioned, although no more than two birds were noted at any site. W Mid Breeding season records were received from along Bourn Brook (Harborne Lane area), Bourneville (along Valley Parkway), Edgbaston Pool, Marsh Lane NR, the River Rea (Dogpool Lane area), Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park. Further records outside of the breeding season came from Dorridge, Lutley Brook, Marsh Lane NR (up to two), Olton Mere and Stubbers Green.

Hoopoe Upupa epops Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10). Warks A bird was seen in a garden on the Woodloes Park estate, Warwick on the evening of May 14th ME. Also in May, a pair was seen for one day only at Sweet Knowle, Preston-on-Stour RHg, but unfortunately the exact date wasn’t recorded. Staffs One was seen at Bishops Wood on June 1st SN, where it had been present the day before.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1941. Worcs One frequented a back garden at Claines, Worcester from August 29th-31st PK et al while one photographed in a garden at Grimley on September 1st was still present the following day RL. W Mid One was seen at Russells Hall in Dudley on September 5th HK.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Fairly common resident. Warks Common and generally distributed, up to three breeding pairs were reported from

119 many sites; with at least seven in the Charlecote district. Drumming was heard at Packing- ton on January 18th. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Bredon Hill, Dowles Brook, Fladbury Golf Course, Gwen Finch Wetland, Lower Moor, Malvern Hills (many), Ryall Pits and Tibberton (four). An adult accompanied a juvenile in a Malvern Link Garden on July 24th. Staffs Clearly a common bird throughout the county but the only juvenile reported was one at Westport. Little data was received from the Chase; despite being a stronghold for the species. Present throughout the year at Apedale CP, Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Belvide, Chasewater, River Sow Meadows at Baswich and the old sewage works at Westport. One or two birds were logged at 54 sites, with three at Park Farm Trysull on November 15th and five at the River Sow Meadows, Baswich on April 24th. W Mid Breeding season records came from Aldridge, Bills Wood in Shirley, Bilston Cemetery, Cuckoo’s Nook, Edgbaston Pool, Harborne, Harborne NR, Marsh Lane NR area, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Trittiford Park, Turls Hill/Whites Wood area, Warley Woods, Wednesfield (along Steelpark Way) and Woodgate Valley. Additional records from outside of the breeding season came from Balsall Common (on farmland just to the south).

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Fairly common to common resident. Warks Remains common throughout the county. Four pairs bred in Itchington Holt, with one to three pairs reported breeding from widespread locations. Worcs A pair reared two young at Birchen Coppice, a pair fledged two at Bodenham Arboretum, one pair bred at Breach Dingle, two pairs at Dayhouse Wood, breeding pairs noted along the Dowles Brook and a pair bred at Ell Wood. A pair with three young were observed at Gwen Finch Wetland on June 20th, one pair bred at Lower Moor, reported as a common breeder on the Malvern Hills and three juveniles were noted in a Malvern Link garden on July 24th. Three pairs bred at Tibberton and reported to have bred at Upper Kite Wood and Wood Norton. Three drumming males were heard at Chase End Wood on December 27th. Staffs Widespread throughout the county, being recorded at 63 sites. High counts comprised four at Belvide on February 16th, six at Cuckoo Bank in April, nine at Tittesworth on 11th, six in the Churnet Valley on May 22nd and four at Great Spotted Woodpecker, Westport, Blithfield on September 3rd. Dave Kelsall W Mid Breeding season records came from Bills Wood in Shirley, Bilston Cemetery, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR area, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP,

120 Smestow Valley, Turls Hill/Whites Wood area, Warley Woods and Wednesfield (along Steelpark Way). Also reported from Handsworth/Handsworth Wood area.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor Frequent to fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were located at Barford, Coombe Abbey (three), Farnborough Park (two), Hopsford, and by the River Leam at Offchurch. Also recorded during the year at: Alvecote, Ashorne, Avon Dassett, Brandon, Chadwick End, Charlecote, DMC Kineton, Dunnington, Fenny Compton, Fisher’s Mill GP, Guy’s Cliffe, Hampton Lucy, Hunningham, Kingsbury, Knightcote, Ladbroke, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Oakley Wood, Packington, Radway, Ryton Wood, Snowford, Temple Pool (Upton), Welford-on-Avon, Whittleford (Nuneaton), Wishaw and at both Wormleighton Res. and village. It was reported from a total of 34 sites (cf. 29 in 2003 and 39 in 2002). Worcs A pair, with the male drumming were noted at Chase End Wood on April 13th, four territories were held along the Dowles Brook, probably up to three pairs present along the River Severn at Grimley, between Bevere Lock and Heronry Wood and a drumming male was heard at Shatterford on March 2nd. Other breeding season records came from Chaddesley Wood, Hewell Grange, Leigh Sinton, Sling Pool, Stoke Bliss, Tanners Hill (two), Upton Warren (three seen on June 29th), Wassell Grove Pools, Westwood Pool (pair) and Whiteleaved Oak. During the first winter period, two were at Chase End Wood on January 8th, a male was drumming at Stoke Bliss on 18th, a female was noted at Bittell Reservoir on February 18th and two were along the River Severn at Grimley on 22nd and March 10th. During July, singles observed at Upton Warren on 9th, Monk Wood on 12th and Trench Wood on 14th. Second winter period sightings were of singles at Upton Warren on October 7th, November 3rd, 15th and 19th, one at Stoke Bliss on October 24th and one at Oakley Pool on November 11th. The banks of the River Severn at Grimley held particularly vocal pairs from early November to the year’s end. Finally singles were at Hanley Swan on December 16th and Habberley Valley on 19th. Staffs All records of this nationally declining species are presented here. At Baggeridge CP three pairs bred and a pair at Lichfield fledged four young. A pair was seen at Crumpwood on April 2nd with a single on May 30th. Singles were also seen during May at Brocton Coppice, Copmere, Keele University, Knypersley, Rudyard and Tittesworth. Other reports include a male at Whitemoor Haye on January 5th, another at Seven Springs on February 8th and March 5th, one Blithfield on April 4th, a male at Levedale on 21st, a male in a Cannock garden on July 11th, a female at Dunston Heath on 12th, a female at Blithfield on August 22nd, Blithfield on September 11th-12th, two at Whitmore several times in October, Swynnerton on November 5th, Aqualate on November 7th and December 19th and Gospel Ash on November 25th.

121 W Mid At Trittiford Park, a female was noted on January 16th with two displaying males noted here along the River Cole on February 25th and a drumming male in the same vicinity at the Dingles on March 5th. Singles were recorded at Marsh Lane NR on February 12th, April 13th, October 29th and November 21st. A male was noted at Valley Parkway in Selly Oak on March 28th while one was heard calling from Edgbaston Pool, a traditional breeding site, on April 13th. A male was noted at Norton in Stourbridge on July 29th until 31st, and one was in gardens in Norton Lane, Earlswood on July 29th. A female was in Smestow Valley on October 18th.

Wood Lark Lullula arborea Resident until 1960s, then a rare visitor and now an uncommon, but increasing breeding species. Warks Single birds were found in grass set-asides between Guy’s Cliffe and Old Milverton on January 27th and February 1st CRS, and at Priors Hardwick on April 21st JJB. The latter bird was presumably on spring passage and was seen to depart high to the north-east. Worcs One flew over the top of Happy Valley calling on October 11th SMW. Staffs One visited Belvide on March 9th-10th SN. Two were seen at Baggeridge CP from March 23rd to April 25th, increasing to three on May 2nd then one on 9th but not thereafter DJW. Up to seven were recorded on Cannock Chase with one confirmed breeding pair. W Mid One in Blythe Valley CP on October 25th and 26th ARD et al was an excellent county find.

2003 Addendum W Mid Two seen at Lutley Wedge on November 1st; one being present from October 30th GP.

Sky Lark Alauda arvensis Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Territory counts included at least 19 singing in 100 ha of arable at Shipston-on- Stour (cf. 22 in 2003) and 12 in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot. The total of 70 logged on the DMC Kineton May census keeps up the improved numbers recorded there since 2000. Few breeding counts or comments have come from the north in recent years, so it was encouraging to have one observer describing it as very common this year around Maxstoke. Outside the breeding season there were again no large late winter flocks, the best included 77 in set-aside at Wasperton on January 15th, 75 in stubble at Radway on 31st and 50 in stubble at Fenny Compton on March 2nd. A light spring passage was noted over the Napton and Fenny Compton/Wormleighton areas, on various dates during March 5th-18th, with odd birds continuing to 29th. This typically involved less than 20 per hour and was mainly to the north and north-east. Autumn passage (largely to the south-west) began very early in the southern hills, with a trickle moving from September 8th which is 11 days earlier than average. The first big movement involved 260 grounded during drizzle at Fenny Compton on September 27th, followed by counts of 165 in an hour over Wormleighton Res. on 28th, 200 per hour over Fenny Compton on 29th and 800 in two hours on 30th; with 780 in two hours over Priors Hardwick on October 1st, and the rate dropping mainly to 100 per hour or less thereafter. The only higher totals on subsequent days involved hourly counts of 230 over Wormleighton Res. on October 15th, 140 over Fenny Compton on 16th and 130 over Knightcote on 24th. On October 26th there were 350 grounded at Priors Hardwick by strong winds the day before, most of these departing west during the morning. Other large feeding

122 flocks during this period also probably involved migrants, and included 300 in stubble at Fenny Compton on October 7th, 180 in stubble at Napton Res. on 8th, 100 on Brailes Hill on 11th, with 300 on Ilmington Downs on 18th and 215 there on November 10th. An influx of 200 at Fenny Compton on November 13th had mostly departed by the following morning, on which day there were 100 at Salford Priors GP. Subsequent counts were low, with flocks of 40-50 at several sites in December and a maximum of 85 at Birchmoor on 17th. Worcs Little breeding data received, but six singing males were recorded at Ryall Pits and the surrounding arable field in late March, three pairs bred at Kinsham Lake, 14 pairs held territories at Tibberton and five to six pairs bred along the Malvern Hills and Commons. Two counts received during the first winter period comprised 50 at Holt Heath on January 14th and 31 at Tibberton on 29th. The largest flocks reported during the second winter period included 70+ feeding on an area of set-aside at Lower Bittell Reservoir on October 9th, November 20th and December 2nd and Bredon Hill held 50 on October 24th, then 70 on November 7th and December 5th. 23 were at Upton Warren on November 1st, 12 at Westwood Park and 120 in unsprayed wheat stubble at Whitehouse Farm on 14th, 40 at Holt Heath on December 9th, 150 at Kyre and 25 at Stanford Bridge on 25th. Staffs Records of significant early season flocks include 120 on January 1st-7th at Bent Lane (Whitmore) and 80 at the same site on the 10th. A maximum of 57 birds was recorded at Black Bank in February and 73 in March whilst also in March 50 were recorded at Cuckoo Bank. During the breeding season records were spread in small numbers across the county, only Cuckoo Bank having double figures with a maximum of 10 birds in May, although it was reported as a widespread breeder in the Apedale CP/Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery area as well and 30 pairs were located at Bateswood CP. A total of 133 pairs was located during an extensive search of the western/central parts of the North Staffs Moors. The first male song was heard on February 1st and it carried on well into June but the only breeding record was for Doxey Marshes, where an adult and juvenile were seen on August 22nd. Post-breeding numbers built up rapidly with as many as 110 at Silverdale on September 18th, 150 at Cuckoo Bank in October, 56 at Keele in November and, in December, 100 at Chartley Castle and 350 at Cuckoo Bank. Good double-figure numbers were also noted at Baswich, Belvide, Silverdale Colliery and Whitemoor Haye in October. W Mid Breeding season records came from Blythe Valley Country Park (nine singing males), Bowmans Harbour in Wednesfield (two or three pairs), the Clayhanger area, Dunstall Park (noted singing on a single June date), Marsh Lane NR area (up to four singing birds), Sandwell Valley (at least eight singing birds), Sheepwash UP area, Sutton Park and the Wishaw Lane area of Minworth (at least three in song). In the first winter period, 42 were counted at the junction of Honiley Road and Meer End Road (south of Balsall Common) on January 15th. One was noted in flight over Harborne on the unusual date of July 28th. Autumn passage at Marsh Lane NR commenced with 19 on September 26th with regular movement noted in October with a peak of in excess of 30 on 24th. Other autumn/second winter period counts included an impressive 100 plus in the Wishaw Lane, Minworth in early October (a very notable county total), at least 30 at Bickenhill on October 19th and in excess of 20 in Lutley Wedge on December 27th. Small numbers were noted passing through Smestow Valley during the autumn.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 20th March (69) to 11th October (69).

123 Continuing the trend for early arrivals the first were seen at Marsh Lane NR and Blithfield on March 14th with last at Salford Priors GP on October 3rd. Warks Salford Priors GP, our largest colony, had an estimated 185 breeding pairs (cf. 150 in 2003). A few pairs again bred in the banks of the River Tame at Dosthill but the Ladywalk colony was apparently washed out early in the season. Other known colonies were uncounted. Spring passage began rather later than in very recent years, with the first birds appearing at Brandon (three) on March 16th and Napton Res. (three) on 17th. Passage flocks were recorded more widely than usual, with site maxima of 180 at Brandon on April 4th, 200 at both DMC Kineton and Dosthill on 16th, 150 at Packington on 17th, 350 at Draycote and 300 at Kingsbury on 18th, 400 at Coton and 150 over the pool at Wootton Wawen on 20th, and 250 at Earlswood Lakes on 30th. The post-breeding peak at Salford Priors GP was 600 on July 18th, with 150 still there on August 29th. Elsewhere, return passage was small though again widely reported; with maxima of 60 at Draycote on July 6th, 25 at Wasperton on 14th, 50 at Abbots Salford on August 29th, 50 at Brandon on September 6th, 35 at Fenny Compton on 14th, 12 at Wormleighton Res. on 28th, 20 at Napton Res. on 29th and the last bird at Salford Priors GP on October 3rd. Worcs All breeding colonies reported were in gravel pit workings, with 32 nests at Clifton Pits, 15 at Grimley New Workings, 10 at Lower Moor and 24 at Ryall Pits. The 22 birds noted along the River Severn at Upper Arley on June 13th were probably breeding locally. The first sightings came from Gwen Finch Wetland (three) and Upton Warren (five) on March 16th, four at Grimley New Workings, four at Gwen Finch Wetland and 20 at Westwood Pool all on 17th, 30 at Grimley New Workings on 18th, then five at Upton Warren and 100+ at Westwood Pool on 19th. Kinsham Lake held 50 and Westwood Pool 60 on March 21st, 100+ were at Westwood Pool on April 7th and 28th, 500 at Upper Bittell Reservoir, 350 at Bredon’s Hardwick and 150 at Lower Moor on 16th. The only autumn report was of five along the River Severn at Upper Arley on August 27th. Staffs Unlike the other two hirundines, the spring migration was a much more steady affair. Starting with a singleton seen at Blithfield on March 14th, birds arrived steadily throughout March and April peaking at Belvide with 500 on April 16th, 400 on 17th and 200 at Blithfield, also on the 16th. The highest count at Chasewater was 520 during April. Hales held the largest breeding colony, with 100 pairs, and Baldwins Gate Quarry also had a significant number, with 30 pairs. Breeding was also recorded near Copmere, at Catholme and at Rugeley Power Station. On the down side there was no sign of the colony at Whitmore, which had been seen in previous years. This was due to a diverted water course making the sand bank unsuitable. Rather fewer birds were recorded during the autumn migration with 100 at Belvide on August 30th and just 50 at Pye Green on September 1st and 50 at Doxey on the 13th. There were only three other September records, at Tittesworth, with two birds on 12th, Silverdale Colliery with one on the18th, the final record being at Chasewater on the 19th. W Mid Breeding was only reported from the Meriden Quarries area. At Marsh Lane NR, the highest counts comprised over 200 on May 29th with similar numbers regularly noted between June 15th and July 7th. Peak spring counts from Sandwell Valley comprised 90 in March and 100 in April while12 were counted at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 17th. Thirty was the peak count from the Clayhanger/Ryders Hayes Mere area on April 23rd. Regularly noted over Dunstall Park Lake in spring (peak count of six) with one or two noted into June and early July. The first returning bird at Marsh Lane NR on March 14th was only present for a few minutes before being predated by a Eurasian Sparrowhawk!

124 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 31st March (70) to 4th November (70). A very early bird was seen at Brandon on March 18th and a very late bird at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 20th. Warks Breeding records included 16 nests in stables at Idlicote (cf.17 in 2003) and ten nests in farm buildings at Morton Bagot. There were early birds at Brandon on March 18th and Kingsbury (two) on 24th, but firsts at most sites were mainly during the first week in April. Subsequent spring maxima included 100 at Coton on April 20th and 250 at Earlswood Lakes on 30th, while Draycote had excellent counts of 600 on May 1st and 800 on 8th. On return passage, there were a number of flocks of around 100-150 reported from the second week in July onwards, peaking in the third week in September. Maxima included 200 at Salford Priors GP on August 29th and September 12th, and 450 at Ilmington Downs on 16th. Counts of migrants included 750 south-west in an hour at Fenny Compton on September 18th and over 1000 south-south-west in three hours at Salford Priors GP on 19th, while 240 moved south-west at Fenny Compton on 30th. Good passage continued to October 7th, with stragglers continuing to pass until 22nd. Late birds involved singles at both Ladywalk and Wormleighton Res. on October 28th, and at Kingsbury on November 7th-8th. Worcs A pair bred successfully in at nest box at Bodenham Arboretum, fledging seven young and ten pairs bred at Tibberton. The first summer migrants just creped into March, with two noted at Gwen Finch Wetland on 31st. Just singles or pairs reported until late April, at Westwood Pool on 1st, Upton Warren on 6th, Broadway on 12th, Happy Valley (two) on 13th and Malvern Link on 16th. Three were seen over Castlemorton Common on April 25th, 200+ at Westwood Pool on 28th and 80 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 29th. During the autumn, 75 were at Hollybed Common on September 3rd and 7th, 100+ flew from there night time roost at St. Anne’s Well, Malvern Hills on 25th, two were observed at Hanley Swan on October 5th and Broadway held three on 12th, then singles on 16th, 19th and 21st. A late departing individual was noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 20th. Staffs Despite the first birds being seen on March 23rd at Belvide, migration did not seem to get underway in earnest until the end of April when 400 were seen at Belvide and 150 at Doxey Marshes on the 28th. The only other significant spring migration record was of 300 birds at Belvide on May 8th. The only large summer numbers were recorded at Baswich, where 150 were seen on July 22nd and again on the 27th. Autumn migration started in late August with 200 birds reported for Tittesworth on the 28th. Some significant numbers were recorded throughout September, these included 400 at Doxey Marshes on the 3rd and 300 on the 13th, 500 at Keele University and 150 at Baswich on the 11th with a further 200 at Baswich and 200 at Walton Grange on the 18th. Black Bank provided the greatest numbers with 116 on the 19th, but 800 flew south in just one hour on the 24th and the morning total was estimated to be at least 2000. Migration ran on well into October with the last bird being seen on the 25th at Croxall Gravel Pits. W Mid Breeding reported from Sandwell Valley while 30 were at Marsh Lane NR on April 27th and 25 at Edgbaston Reservoir on 30th. In excess of 100 were counted in Sandwell Valley in May. A good autumn passage was reported from Marsh Lane NR with 150 passing through on September 17th followed by 283 in 90 minutes on 19th. Also reported from Clayhanger, Turls Hill, Ryders Hayes Mere, and Selly Oak. A bird at Marsh Lane NR on May 4th was reported to have exhibited characteristics of the ‘transitiva’ race originating from the east Mediterranean and Middle East.

125 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica Very rare vagrant (1/10). Warks A single bird was at Earlswood Lakes from April 30th-May 1st GJM et al. This represents only the second county record, the first coming from Draycote on May 27th 1972. Staffs One at Gailey from April 29th-30th IC was the first county record to be accepted by the BBRC and obligingly per - formed well over its two day stay. It was immediately followed by the second county record from Red-rumped Swallow, Phil Jones Blithfield, also on April 30th MPR. There is however a late submission from 2003 awaiting a decision from the BBRC.

House Martin Delichon urbicum Common to very common summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 6th April (70) to 1st November (70). Early birds were seen at Kingsbury (two) on March 19th, Upton Warren and Chasewater on 20th and Marsh Lane NR on the 21st; all dates well in advance of the average. The last birds were seen at Whitacre Heath (11) on October 22nd and Castlemorton Common on the 23rd. Warks No significant breeding data received this year, although a continuing slow decline over the last 15 years was reported from Coleshill. There were two very early spring reports, with two at Kingsbury on March 19th and two at Brandon on 22nd. Most firsts began to appear from the first week of April. Spring passage counts included 200 at Earlswood Lakes on April 30th, and peaks of 120 at Brandon on May 1st and 100 at Ladywalk on 3rd. 600 collecting in the Avon Valley between Charlecote and Wasperton on July 14th during very windy weather, was a good summer count. On return passage, good- sized counts included: 200 moving south-east in thirty minutes at Ilmington Downs on August 26th, 350 at Fenny Compton on 28th and September 7th, 380 south in an hour over Wormleighton Res. on 8th, 250 at Priors Hardwick on 11th, 400 moving south-west at Salford Priors GP and 200 at Abbots Salford on 12th, 300 at Charlecote on 15th, 260 at Ilmington Downs on 16th, 220 over the Oxford Canal at Wormleighton during persistent rain on 17th, an impressive total of 1350 south-west in an hour at Fenny Compton on 18th, 350 south-south-west at Salford Priors GP on 19th, and at least 500 over the pool at Wootton Wawen on 21st. Passage remained fairly heavy to the end of the month, but with only small numbers continuing into the first week of October; although a brood was still in the nest at Hartshill on October 5th. Late maxima at this time included 70 at Salford Priors GP on October 3rd, 67 moving through Shustoke and 48 through Fenny Compton on 5th, and 100 feeding over a sheltered slope on Ilmington Downs on 6th. A few stragglers were noted up to October 12th, with the last report of 11 flying south over Whitacre Heath on 22nd. Worcs At Barnt Green, 16 nests were counted along Hewell Road, two along Sandhills Road and two along Brockhill Lane. Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum, two on a house at Hanley Swan and 12 at Tibberton. Singles were reported from Upton Warren on

126 March 20th and Westwood Pool on 21st and 23rd, 85 visited Bishampton Vale Pool on April 25th and Lower Moor held 100 on 29th. A strong autumn passage of birds was recorded along the Malvern Hills range during the first half of September, with an estimated 1000 included an albino bird at British Camp on 1st and 2nd, 200 and 50 at Hollybed Common on 3rd and 7th respectively, 200 over North Hill on 19th and 1000+ heading south over Malvern Wells on 21st. 20 were seen at Upper Arley on October 3rd, 100 at Wych Cutting on 6th and finally three at Castlemorton Common on 23rd. Staffs Migration seemed slow to start this year, the first bird being seen on March 20th at Chasewater but none thereafter until April 2nd. Large numbers only started to appear at the end of April. There were few reports of breeding but at Blurton a pair was still feeding young, presumably a second brood, on the very late date of October 13th. Up to 30 birds were collecting mud at Doxey and would have been breeding nearby. On April 18th there were 100 birds at Doxey Marshes but the next significant reports were not until the 27th, when 300 were at Hatherton, the 28th when 100 were at Belvide and the 29th when 180 were at Westport Lake, which also had 300 birds on May 3rd. The most significant summer numbers were recorded at Ingestre, with 300 birds on July 20th and 400 on the 25th and Doxey Marshes with 200 on August 10th. The autumn migration seemed to start rapidly with 300 birds noted at Tittesworth on August 28th. The largest autumn numbers were 1500 at Blithfield on August 29th, 500 at Belvide on September 14th and 2000 at Blithfield on the 18th. The final record was of four birds seen at Doxey Marshes on October 17th. W Mid At least 20 birds were noted collecting mud from around Dunstall Park Lake and at least 40 were over here on April 27th. Up to 25 were at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 20th and 150 in Sandwell Valley in May with at least 50 at Marsh Lane NR on the 26th. Up to 250 were over Dunstall Park on September 4th and 20 at the Cannon Hill Park Conservation area on the 18th. At least 72 moved through Marsh Lane NR on September 25th. Smaller numbers, 15 or fewer, were reported from California, Edgbaston Pool, Ladywood and Woodgate Valley.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Fairly common, though declining, summer resident and passage migrant, becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and western parts of the Region. Average dates: 7th April (67) to 22nd September (65). The first arrived on April 4th at Fenny Compton with the main arrivals around two weeks later. The last record came from Happy Valley on September 19th. Warks The first in spring was found by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on April 4th; followed by birds at Shustoke on April 19th (two singles through), Draycote on 30th and Birchmoor on May 5th. On return passage there were singles at Alvecote on August 21st, Birchmoor on 22nd, Knightcote on September 1st, Birchmoor again on 6th, Brailes Hill on 9th, and lastly, two at Priors Hardwick on 11th. Worcs Singing males were reported from the Wyre Forest, where six were heard along Dowles Brook on April 13th and 10 on both the 22nd and May 6th; and at Callow Hill where three sang on the 30th. The only other breeding localities were at Shatterford Wood, which held four singing males on April 22nd and the Malvern Hills, where singing males were noted on Pinnacle Hill, Raggedstone Hill, Midsummer Hill /(three) and Happy valley during late April and May. Spring passage birds were observed on Bredon Hill on April 17th and at Grimley New Workings on May 2nd. During the autumn, singles flew south over Grimley New Workings on August 15th, Bittell Reservoir on 22nd, Winyates East, Redditch on 31st and Happy Valley on September 19th.

127 Staffs First sightings were of three birds reported on Cannock Chase on April 17th with single birds seen at South Farley and Warslow on the 24th. There was no reported breeding but, given the secretive nature of this species’ nesting sites, no doubt breeding did take place, especially on the Chase. There was no obvious spring migration after the first few records. Apart from its stronghold on Cannock Chase, during the breeding season it was reported from Caltonmoor, Coombes Valley, Gun Hill, Hen Cloud, Stanton, Swallow Moss, and Swineholes Wood. Numbers were low throughout, the spring and summer maxima being just six in the Sherbrook Valley on May 14th and seven at Strawberry Hill on June 30th. There were rather few autumn migration records; one at Blithfield on August 7th, one at Belvide on the 15th, two at Blithfield and Swallow Moss on 22nd, two at Belvide on the 29th, and finally from Chasewater on September 9th. W Mid One was at Marsh Lane NR on April 15th while at Lutley Wedge, one was present between April 16th and 18th and was even noted displaying. On the latter date a second bird was noted to fly over. Two birds were in Smestow Valley on April 22nd and in Sandwell Valley, single birds were noted on April 30th and May 3rd. One flew over Sandwell Valley on August 22nd and one present there on September 1st. Singles flew over Darby’s Hill on September 6th and 10th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage, fairly common in winter. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Baginton Airport (several), Brandon (at least two), Fenny Compton Hills, Gaydon Heath, Lighthorne Quarry (23, cf. 20 in 2002-3), Ufton Tip and Upper Kingston (two). Singing males during the breeding season were further noted at: DMC Kineton, Northend, Priors Hardwick and near Ufton Wood. Wintering flocks during the late winter period were generally smaller than last year; with counts of around 20-30 at Butlers Marston, Caldecote, DMC Kineton, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Wasperton and Wishaw, but with 45 at Priors Hardwick on February 11th. Spring passage was also less prominent, with the best counts of 60 at Draycote from March 22nd-24th, 60 at Lighthorne Quarry on 23rd, 75 at Knightcote on 24th, 53 at Brailes on 26th, 90 north over Wormleighton Res. in an hour on 28th, 60 at Fenny Compton on April 10th, 70 at Broadwell on 16th and 65 at Priors Hardwick on 21st. Return passage in the southern hills began on August 28th but was unusually light over the next month. The only substantial counts during this early period were of 110 at Salford Priors GP on Sep 12th, a peak of 100 on the Fenny Compton Hills on 16th when 170 moved south at Ilmington Downs in one hour, and 150 again at Salford Priors GP on 19th. From September 28th passage rates of up to 100 per hour became usual, with the floodgates breaking during the first week in October. A total of 920 flew south-west at Priors Hardwick in just two hours on October 1st, there was a peak of 400 at Salford Priors GP on 3rd and 495 moved south- south-west at Fenny Compton in an hour on 7th. Passage again became very light after about October 10th, finally dying out around November 5th. In other parts of the county passage appeared to be generally light, and no notable counts were forthcoming. Subsequent wintering flocks of around 30-60 were noted at Fenny Compton, Lighthorne Quarry and Priors Hardwick, while an exceptional 250 were feeding in a flooded onion field at Salford Priors GP on December 19th. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from the Malvern Hills and Commons, including 15+ displaying males along the north Malvern range on March 15th and two or three singing males at Castlemorton Common during the summer. Eight pairs bred around the tower area

128 of Bredon Hill and a single was singing at Throckmorton airfield on April 25th. First winter period sightings were of 12-14 at Tibberton during January and March, 54 at Lower Bittell Reservoir on March 2nd, 40 at Tibberton on April 4th, 100 at Gwen Finch Wetland on 16th and 160 at Tibberton on 17th, with 90 still present the next day. A post breeding flock of 40 was at Hollybed Common on August 15th. A strong movement of autumn passage birds was recorded during September and early October, with 30 at Hollybed Common on 3rd, 200 and 100 on Bredon Hill on 6th and 28th respectively, 60 at Throckmorton Tip on 15th, 60- 70 at Ryall Pits on 18th and 19th, 30 at Grimley New Workings on 26th and 70 at Lower Moor on 29th. Bredon Hill held 100 on October 1st, Grimley New Workings 100 on 7th and Lower Moor 40 on 17th. Numbers dwindled during November and December, with small groups noted at many localities across the county. The best counts were of 40 on North Hill on November 3rd, 15 at Westwood Park on 14th, 50 at Lower Moor on 20th, 10 at Castlemorton Common on December 23rd and 50 at Kyre on 25th. Staffs Breeding reports came from Apedale CP, Bateswood CP (three territories), Black Bank, Doxey Marshes (10 pairs), Goldsitch Moss, Knotbury and Orchard Common. Clearly a common breeder on suitable habitat on the northern moors. Also reported from Brocton Coppice and Ipstones in May. Higher counts in January consisted of 31 at Belvide, 50 at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery, 70 at Madeley STW and 29 at the River Sow Meadows, Baswich. In February 59 at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery, 28 at Doxey , 100 at Little Stoke and 50 at Whitemoor Haye. Numbers increased in March as spring passage kicked in with 65 at Belvide, 50 at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery, 50 at Bleak House, 45 at Blithfield, 50 at Cuckoo Bank, 80 at Little Stoke and 34 at Seighford. In April there were 77 at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery and 62 at Seighford. A post-breeding flock of 110 was present at Revidge on August 22nd. The first signs of return passage were noted at Silverdale Colliery with 80 on September 10th, rising to 200-250 from 16th-23rd, 25 on October 2nd and 104 on 9th. Visible migration was observed at Black Bank with southerly movements of 162 on September 19th, 350 in one hour on 24th, 550 in one hour on October 1st and 310 in one hour on 8th. The one-hour counts were for the first hour after dawn, so the daily totals are likely to be at least double the figures stated. Elsewhere 38 went over Doxey on September 26th, 42 were at Denstone Hall on 30th, 30 at Cuckoo Bank in October, 51 at Doxey on 13th rising to 133 on 17th. November counts comprised 21 at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery and 17 at Offley Marsh. In December, 47 were at Black Bank/Silverdale Colliery, 20 at Chasewater, 80 at Cuckoo Bank, 21 at Doxey, 10 at Essington Quarry Pool, 14 at Lower Stonnall and 26 at Offley Marsh. W Mid Breeding was reported from Bowmans Harbour in Wednesfield (two or three pairs), the Clayhanger area, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP area and Sutton Park. 20 were near Foxcote Pond in Lutley Wedge on February 14th. On the morning of April 12th, 123 were counted flying over Lutley Wedge in 30 minutes whilst in excess of 60 were in Sandwell Valley on the same date. Twenty-five was the peak spring count from Dunstall Park on April 13th while a fall of 40 birds was reported from Marsh Lane NR on April 18th. In the autumn, return passage began in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area on September 9th with peak counts of 77 over in 40 minutes on October 7th and 72 over on October 8th. At Marsh Lane NR, over 50 were present on September 25th. Also reported from Mons Hill.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks There was a single spring bird at Draycote on March 31st and April 2nd. On

129 return passage, singles occurred at Draycote on September 25th, 26th and 30th, with two on October 14th and one on 30th. There were also two at Napton Res. on September 29th and one at Salford Priors GP on October 31st. Worcs Upton Warren held singles on October 9th, 12th and 14th and one was at Trimpley Reservoir on 27th. Staffs Two at Musden Low on April 13th, one at Westport on 16th and Whitemoor Haye on October 3rd were the only records this year. A very poor showing compared with 13 birds in 2003 and 27 in 2002. W Mid Typical March records were received from Sandwell Valley on 18th and 19th and 27th and 30th. The only autumn record concerned a single bird at Marsh Lane NR on October 12th.

Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis Rare passage migrant (6/10). Warks Three in breeding plumage were at Draycote on March 28th REH, JFCJ et al. Staffs One at Blithfield on February 28th ESC. W Mid One at Marsh Lane NR between March 18th and 22nd was assigned to this race.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Average dates: 26th October (15) to 17th April (15). Warks The over-wintering bird at Dosthill was seen on January 5th, 21st and February 23rd ARD. Another bird was seen at Draycote on January 14th RCM, while spring passage migrants were noted at Brandon on March 31st BMCG and Draycote (in breeding plumage) on April 10th CJL. In the autumn a national influx brought six to the county; all in less usual, and some in new locations for this species. The first bird was found at Alvecote on October 20th RLS, followed by two feeding around a small marshy pool at Priors Hardwick on 26th JJB. In December, single birds were found in a flooded marsh at Lighthorne Quarry on 16th JJB, in a flooded onion field at Salford Priors GP on 19th JJB and on the concrete shoreline at Shustoke on 24th BLK. The latter reappeared at the same spot in early January 2005. Staffs A good series of records from Blithfield with probably two elusive birds present from January 1st until March 19th PDH et al. One was also seen at Blithfield on November 3rd–4th ESC. Two in summer plumage were present at Doxey on March 31st MDB and up to three at Essington Quarry Pool from April 10th-12th IC, this site also hosting a wintering bird from December 5th onwards IC. W Mid One was remained in the Marsh area of Sandwell Valley between January 1st and March 22nd PMH et al while a bird in partial summer plumage was noted at Marsh Lane NR on April 3rd.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Fairly common, but declining, summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: 2nd April (68) to 11th October (68). The first birds were seen at Blithfield and Belvide on April 3rd with the last at Gwen Finch Wetland on October 5th. Warks Breeding was reported in moderate numbers across the eastern Feldon, from Draycote and Weston-under-Wetherley in the north, to Shotteswell, Warmington, Ratley, Tysoe and Brailes in the south. The largest concentration was at Fenny Compton, where the

130 population is surveyed annually. Here a total of 24 breeding pairs were located (cf. 18 in 2003, 23 in 2002 and 15 in 2001), which maintains the recent recovery in numbers there. Ten pairs bred again at Grandborough. West of a line drawn from Leamington south to the Fosse Way, breeding pairs were only reported from Beausale, Kenilworth, Salford Priors GP (several) and Wasperton (seven, a notable increase here). In the north of the county, breeding pairs were located at Birchmoor (three), Bramcote Hall and Shuttington. Spring passage was slightly better than in 2003, reaching a peak in the third week when there were several counts of 20 at both Dosthill and Draycote. On return passage Salford Priors GP attracted the most, with up to 50 on several dates and an exceptional 200 early on August 15th, most of which had probably roosted overnight. Other counts were tiny by comparison but included maxima of 25 at Draycote on August 20th, 20 at Knightcote on September 1st, 17 at Charlecote GP on 3rd and 18 at Fenny Compton on 7th. Worcs Three pairs bred at Grimley Old Workings, one at Grimley New Workings and four at Ryall Pits. A pair probably bred successfully near the Flash Pools at Upton Warren, as four juveniles were observed here on July 15th and small numbers present at Lower Moor throughout the breeding season. Reported during the spring in relatively small numbers, peak passage being between April 12th-25th. Maxi mum site counts were one at Abberton, 10 at Bredon’s Hard wick, two at Clifton Pits, six at Fladbury, 15 at Grimley New Workings, one at Holt Prairies, two at Kinsham Lake, one at Tibberton, 13 at Upton Warren, one at Wassell Grove Pools and two at Westwood Park. Grimley New Workings Yellow Wagtail, Westport, Dave Kelsall held the largest counts of post breeding birds, with nine present on August 15th, 18 on September 12th and six on 13th. Three were at Ryall Pits on August 21st and singles or pairs were also observed at Abberton, Bredon’s Hardwick, Clifton Pits, Grimley Triangle, Gwen Finch Wetland, Holt Prairies and Kinsham Lake. The final record for the year came from Gwen Finch Wetland, with a single noted on October 5th. Staffs This species had returned by April 3rd when single birds were seen at Belvide and Blithfield. Likely breeding was reported for Blithfield, Coldmeece Pools, where four territories were found in potato crops, Drayton Bassett, Ingestre, Norton Bridge with two pairs and Seighford Airfield. Three pairs bred in crop fields at Whitmore and were seen carrying food to nests, but probably failed as no juveniles were seen this year. Displaying birds were also present at Croxall GP, Netherset Hey and Whitemoor Haye. The vast majority of sightings were for Blithfield although the bird was reported in varying numbers from 26 other sites. Whitemoor Haye had the greatest number of birds on spring migration, with 30 on April 17th and possibly on return migration too with 40 on July 30th. Apart from Whitemoor Haye the only other double figures on return migration were reported

131 from Blithfield, with 15 on August 20th. Migration continued throughout September, with small numbers at Blithfield, Chasewater, Croxall CP, Doxey Marshes and Weston Jones, the final bird being seen at Blithfield on October 3rd. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, spring passage saw mainly singles between April 5th and May 21st with a peak of five on May 1st. Singles were seen in Sandwell Valley on April 13th and 23rd with three present on May 3rd. One was seen at Ryders Hayes Mere on April 17th and a male was on farmland at Park Farm, Middle Bickenhill Lane on April 19th. In Dunstall Park, singles were seen on May 3rd, 11th, 24th and on June 1st. At Marsh Lane NR, autumn migrants comprised three on July 17th followed by singles on August 20th and 21st and a final bird on September 10th. Two flew over Smestow Valley on August 15th while two were at Goscote Valley on August 25th. The last record came from Sandwell Valley on September 12th.

Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava Rare passage migrant, mainly in spring (9/10). Staffs There was one at Blithfield on April 23rd MPR and another at Whitemoor Haye from May 21st-24th JHa.

Blue-headed X Yellow Wagtail Staffs A male “Channel Wagtail” was seen at Blithfield on April 25th WJL and June 20th PDH.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Alvecote, Baddesley Clinton, Barford, Brandon, Draycote, Earlswood, Eathorpe, Guy’s Cliffe, Haselor Weir, Kenilworth, Ladywalk, Salford Priors (River Arrow) and Shustoke. There were also breeding season reports from Bascote, Bermuda, Fenny Compton, Hunningham, Idlicote, Lighthorne, Middleton, Moreton Morrell, Radway, Seeswood, Southam, Tysoe and Wormleighton Res., at many of which breeding has occurred in the recent past. A strong autumn passage was noted at Salford Priors GP, with peak counts of ten on September 19th and 12 on October 3rd. Worcs Four territories were held along the Dowles Brook, a pair bred at Bodenham Arboretum and reports of singles or pairs during the breeding season came from the Dick Brook at Shrawley, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Heightington Brook, Hollybush Quarry, Joan’s Hole (two pairs), Kington, Pershore, Strensham Lagoons, The Knapp, Trimpley Reservoir, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Outside the breeding season records came from Broadway Gravel Pit, Grimley New Workings, Hanley Swan, Huntsbridge, Lower Moor, Pershore Town Centre, Stoke Bliss (three in garden in October and November), Throckmorton Lagoons, Trimpley Reservoir (six on October 28th), Upper Arley, Upton Warren, Welland and West Malvern. Staffs Extensively reported with records from 60 sites throughout the stream, river and canal systems of the county covering every month of the year. During April to July confirmed or probable breeding reports came from the River Sow meadows at Baswich (which held two pairs), from Bearda, Blithfield, Cannock Chase (Seven Springs), the River Dane at Gradbach, the River Trent at Ingestre, Little Aston, Madeley STW, Stanley Pool, Tittesworth, and Whitmore, and birds were reported at a further 19 sites. Most reports received were of singles or of pairs of birds but larger numbers include six at Tittesworth on February 29th, seven along the River Dane in Back Forest on May 23rd, and five at Doxey Marshes on November 14th.

132 W Mid Reported in the breeding season from Balsall Common (on farmland just to the south), Berkswell (two broods raised), Birmingham City Centre (at least three pairs associated with the canal network), Marsh Lane NR (occasional birds noted in April but did not breed this year), Mons Hill, Sandwell Valley, Selly Oak (on Bourne Brook), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (at least three pairs), Turls Hill and Woodgate Valley (along the Bourn Brook). Outside of the breeding season additional birds were reported from Dorridge Park, Hillfield Park, Nechells (along the River Rea near Star City), Olton Mere (up to four in autumn) and Solihull town centre.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The largest counts came from Salford Priors GP, where there were peaks of 100 on September 12th and 19th, 150 coming into roost on October 31st, and 120 in a flooded onion field on December 19th. At other sites much lower numbers were seen, with 50 at Kineton on January 6th, 40 at Milcote STW on 17th and 40 at Draycote on March 25th, the best in the first quarter. Autumn and early winter counts included 45 at Abbots Salford Pool on September 12th, 50 at Radway on 13th, a peak of 75 roosting at a warehouse in Fenny Compton on 23rd, 55 on Ilmington Downs on October 6th, 50 at DMC Kineton on November 16th and 40 Draycote on December 27th. Worcs Five pairs bred at Tibberton and two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum, one using a nest box and fledged four young. 23 were counted at Tesco car park, Evesham on January 5th, then 100+ on 25th, 70 frequented the pans at Upton-Upon- Severn Sewage Works on February 23rd and 58 were at Abberton during March. 190 pre-roosted at Grimley New Workings on September 28th, 65 were at Abberton in September, 15 at Trimpley Reservoir on October 28th and 15 at Larford Pool on November 5th. Staffs Breeding reports came only from Coldmeece, Doxey (three pairs), River Dove at Norbury and Weston Jones. In the first winter period, roosts were found at Newcastle- under-Lyme town centre with 800 on January 10th decreasing to 150 by February 6th and Stafford Hospital with 100 on March 6th. Higher counts in January include 40 at JCB North Lake, 25 at Rickerscote, 53 at River Sow Meadows Baswich and 80 at Whitmore. In February, 30 were at Denstone Hall and 46 at River Sow Meadows. In March, 47 were at Blithfield and 30 at Whitmore. Notable counts include 26 in August at Chasewater and 74 at Tittesworth; 46 at Belvide in September; 40 at Hanchurch Woods in November and 37 at Doxey in December. Visible migration was observed at Black Bank with 14 south on October 1st in one hour. Winter roosts were recorded at Wilkinson’s Store, Stafford with 100 regularly in November and December and the Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre roost held 300 on December 24th. W Mid Bred in Dunstall Park (one or two pairs), Marsh Lane NR, in Sandwell Valley and at Sheepwash UP – obviously under reported. At least 100 were at Ray Hall STW in Sandwell Valley in March with in excess of 200 counted in December. A flock of 17 were on ploughed farmland in Lutley Wedge on March 20th. There was a noticeable passage through Marsh Lane NR during March with double-figure counts on most days peaking at 45 on 21st and 26th. A roost was reported from Birmingham International Railway Station while large numbers gathered in Dunstall Park in autumn and winter before flying off to roost in Wolverhampton city centre with peak counts of 70 in November and 125 in December.

133 White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks Spring passage commenced in late March with two at Seeswood Pool on 22nd, followed by two more at Brandon on 23rd and 26th, one at Coton on 27th and two at Draycote on 28th. In April, Brandon had further birds on 8th, 14th-15th (two) and 21st- 22nd, while singles were noted at Draycote on 10th and 29th. The new bund at Dosthill Lake however was the principle site, with counts there of 20 on April 17th, up to 13 on 18th, ten on 21st and 14 on 22nd. A late bird was at Brandon on May 26th, but there were no autumn records. Worcs Reported in small numbers during April and early May, with one at Wassell Grove Pools on April 10th and 16th, three at Upton Warren on 11th, followed by two on 16th and one on 26th and two males at Grimley New Workings on 12th, then one on 16th. Top Barn Farm held two males on April 15th, a pair were at Lower Moor on 21st, one at Throckmorton Tip on May 1st and finally a pair on Bredon Hill on 10th. A single autumn record of a pair amongst a large passage of Chats and Wagtails at Grimley New Workings on September 12th. Staffs The first birds seen were a pair at Coldmeece Pool on April 4th, probably staying until 17th. These were followed by singles (unless stated otherwise) at Belvide on 8th, two at Barton on 10th, Blithfield on 11th, Belvide on 14th, Doxey on 16th, Belvide on 17th, a male at Blithfield on 17th-18th, Belvide on 21st, two at Drayton Bassett on 22nd, five at Whitemoor Haye on 24th-25th, Hatherton Pool on 27th, a male at Westport on 27th-29th, Blithfield on May 2nd, Branston GP on 3rd and Croxall GP on 6th. W Mid At Sandwell Valley there was on March 22nd with two noted on April 14th. Singles were seen at Marsh Lane NR on March 26th and between April 2nd and 8th. A single was seen at Ryders Hayes Mere on April 17th while a male was noted at Mere Green on April 22nd.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Erratic, and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally numerous in invasion years (7/10). Warks Five at Brandon on February 3rd and three on 15th BMCG were the first reserve records. The first record of what would eventually prove to be a record-breaking winter invasion, concerned a single bird which flew low across Earlswood Lakes and off to the north-west on November 3rd ARD. In December, two were feeding on Sorbus berries at St Nicholas Park, Warwick on 19th GK, two more visited a garden in Whitemoor Road, Kenilworth on 29th GEC, and one or two were in Conrad Close, Rugby on 30th AMo. Worcs A flock of seven along Sapphire Crescent, St. John’s, Worcester on January 1st and 2nd AT et al, had increased to 24 by 7th with daily counts fluctuating between nine and 24 until 19th. A single bird was spotted at Barnards Green, Malvern on January 7th MR and was probably the bird seen here in December 2003 while 16 briefly visited a garden at Leigh on February 22nd SCB. During the second winter period, one was discovered at the Moors Pools, Upton Warren on November 12th MC et al, five at Bromsgrove on December 9th JTB et al, four at St. John’s, Worcester on 20th BH and at Malvern Link, three were present on 27th and 28th, 15 on 30th and 22 on 31st LAB, RC. At Pershore, eight were observed along Station Road GHP et al and 14 at Wyre Piddle Business Park AW all on December 28th. One of the Station Road eight held colour rings and was traced back to a bird trapped at Inverurie, Aberdeen on November 7th 2004. Up to 16 were noted along Station Road on 29th RAP et al and two remained on 31st.

134 Staffs In the first winter period, three were seen at Tittesworth on January 10th, 19 at Stafford on 16th, five at Chasewater on 26th and 15 at Norton Canes on February 28th MY, ICW. The second winter period saw excellent numbers of these charming birds in many locations, resulting from a major national influx. First to arrive was one at Marquis Drive, Cannock Chase on November 12th; numbers rising to 35 by the 15th. Thereafter they were seen almost daily in the vicinity, with 75 on the 23rd, 80 on the 27th and 28th, 60 on December 5th and 11th, 92 on the 18th, 100 on the 19th, dropping to 60 by the 23rd but no more than six thereafter. Elsewhere in November, there was one at Weeping Cross on the 16th, three at Cuckoo Bank on the 21st, 20 at Ashley Heath on the 25th and five at Longdon on the 29th. In December numbers built up as the month progressed, starting with nine at Chasewater on the 9th, one at Leek on the 13th, rising to 20-30 from the 20th- 23rd, two at The Westlands on the 18th with seven the next day, up to 17 at Codsall from the 19th-27th, six at Goldsitch Moss on the 21st, up to 17 at May Bank from 23rd-28th, rising to 31 by the 31st, 50 at Rugeley on the 23rd rising to 75 on the 25th, 17 at Rocester on the 26th, two at Cheadle on the 29th, 230 at Brereton and finally 120 at Newcastle-under-Lyme on the 31st. W Mid Eleven were seen off Stafford Waxwing, Cannock Chase, Dave Kelsall Road in Wolverhampton between January 24th and 31st HK while three were reported from Dartmouth Park on an unspecified date in January. Three were located from the tram by a sharp-eyed birder as it passed near the Hawthorns station on November 17th REH. These three birds were still present when the observer returned on 19th REH. Approximately 30 birds were in the Park Farm area of Sandwell Valley briefly on December 23rd MJH. Three were on Rosemary Lane, Stourbridge on December 31st SLH.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus Frequent resident in north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Rare elsewhere. Worcs As in 2003, three territories were held along the Dowles Brook, with a pair believed to have double brooded. Reported from two other localities along the River Severn at Trimpley Reservoir on January 21st and Upper Arley on July 11th. Staffs Successful breeding occurred at Bearda, Beresford Dale (two juveniles) and Gradbach (one juvenile). In May, singles were seen at Danebridge, Dimmingsdale and Three Shires Head. Up to two were present throughout the year on the River Dove at Norbury. Elsewhere, singles were seen at Okeover Mill and Tittesworth in January, Boldershaw in February, Consall CP in March, Alton in April, two at Ellastone and three

135 at Milldale in June, three at Ilam and four at Dovedale in September and one at Tittesworth in October and November.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Warks Few reports received but the population remains at a high level. At DMC Kineton, the total of 91 logged in May keeps up the above average numbers recorded there since 1999. Up to 20 were counted around Shustoke Res. during February. Worcs The only record was of 49 breeding pairs at Tibberton. Staffs The only breeding record was of 59 pairs at Doxey (up from 45 in 2003), where 29 were also recorded in February and December. Other double-figure counts comprised 20 at South Farley in April and 18 in the Churnet Valley in May. W Mid A minimum of six pairs was noted at Marsh Lane NR. The population along Smestow Valley was reported as ‘stable’.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Warks The total of 35 counted at DMC Kineton in May, though down from the 2003 figure (45), keeps up the above average counts of recent years. Worcs A total of 41 pairs bred at Tibberton and 20 were counted at a feeding station at Kinsham Lake during the first winter period. Staffs Seventeen pairs bred at Doxey (cf. 16 in 2003). Double-figure counts comprised 20 at Lowe Hill, Leek in November and 10 at Greenway Bank CP in December. W Mid The Mons Hill CBC plot held 12 territories. Three pairs were present at Marsh Lane NR – reported as being under recorded. As with the previous species the population along Smestow Valley was reported as ‘stable’. Said to be fairly ‘common’ at Sheepwash UP.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks A total of 22 singing males was counted at Brandon in April. The figure of 72 logged at DMC Kineton in May was identical to that of 2003, indicating that the population is fairly stable. Worcs A total of 51 pairs held territories at Tibberton and two pairs bred successfully in nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum. Staffs Nineteen pairs bred at Doxey (cf. 18 in 2003). Double-figure counts include 11 at Belvide in March and 12 in April, 15 at South Farley in April, 22 in the Churnet Valley in May, 11 at Doxey in August with 13 in September and 10 at the National Memorial Arboretum in October. W Mid Mons Hill CBC plot yielded 38 territories. Five singing birds were reported from Marsh Lane NR while the population along Smestow Valley was reported as ‘stable’.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident, increasingly confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Average dates: 21st April (69) to 30th July (21). Warks A pair bred at a new site near Pillerton Priors. Elsewhere during the breeding season, up to four sang at DMC Kineton, four or five sang at two sites between Stretton- on-Fosse and Ilmington, and at least two sang at a traditional site at Sutton-under-Brailes.

136 Worcs The first record was a passage bird singing at Lower Wick on April 22nd. Breeding birds returned to Strensham Lagoons, with four single males present on 24th, then up to three males noted until May 20th and one was heard on June 6th. Three singing males were at Upper Strensham Pool on April 24th, one at Brotheridge Green on May 7th, one at Brakes Broughton on 7th, 9th and 10th and two at Lickmoor Coppice and three at Defford Airfield during the breeding season. Reported as absent from Langdale Wood this year. This locality had held breeding pairs since 1997 and two singing males were reported in 2003.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A single bird was reported from Caldecote on January 17th per RED. There were no spring records this year, but three on return passage. These consisted of a female or juvenile at Alvecote on August 23rd AA, RLS, a male at Draycote on October 12th RCM and a female or first-winter at Fenny Compton on 15th JJB. Staffs A female visited Knotbury on April 20th NJS. An immature male was seen at Blithfield on November 21st MY, ICW while a female at the National Memorial Arboretum on December 21st ESC had been present since the 15th and remained until the year end. Another female was found at Princes Farm, Kings Bromley on December 27th, also remaining until the year end. W Mid A male was noted along the canal adjacent to Wolverhampton ring road near Broad Street on May 30th TR. One was heard in the ‘Soho area’ of Birmingham city centre on June 10th RJK. An immature/female bird was at Blythe Valley Business Park on November 8th SC. Sadly, accurate data on this enigmatic species was again absent this year.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common, though localised and much decreased, summer resident in Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Average dates: 10th April (68) to 26th September (67). The first bird was seen on April 3rd at Dowles Brook, a little ahead of the average arrival, but the last was on the late date of October 1st at Bredon Hill. Warks Spring passage commenced with single males at Kingsbury on April 11th and Coton on 19th. On April 21st there were at least five males at Priors Hardwick, one of which was in song. One male was still present there next day, when a female was at Wormleighton Res. Although there were late records of single males at Fenny Compton on May 23rd and Radway on June 25th, there was no evidence of breeding this year. Return passage was again above average, with at least 31 birds recorded during the period August 10th-September 27th. The best counts were of four at Alvecote on August 13th-14th and three at Brailes Hill on September 9th; with one or two also reported from Birchmoor, Charlecote GP, Fenny Compton, Lighthorne Quarry, Napton Hill, Napton Res., Priors Hardwick, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs During the breeding season singing males were reported from Bredon Hill (five), Clent Hills (one), Dowles Brook (two), Flint’s Dingle (one), Walton Hill (four) and Wissetts Wood (one). A pair fledged four young at Highfields, Knightwick, five territories were held at Midsummer Hill and an additional two at nearby Raggedstone Hill, Malvern Hills. The first returning bird was noted along Dowles Brook on April 3rd, Walton Hill held a male on 5th and Happy Valley attracted singles on 11th and 19th, three on 25th and one on May 16th. Two were seen on Bredon Hill on April 13th and passage birds also recorded

137 at Upton Warren on 18th, Bewdley on 20th, Abberton and Sugar Loaf Hill (two) on 25th, Mill Shrub on 30th and Wassell Grove Pools on May 2nd. Post breeding sightings came from Lower Moor, with birds present from June 20th-August 29th, including three on August 13th and five on 21st, two were at Bewdley on June 22nd, a male at Upton Warren on many dates between 22nd-August 1st, eight on Bredon Hill on July 6th and one along Camp Lane, Grimley on 9th. Adults and juveniles frequented Grimley Church Yard and New Workings between July and September, with single adults present on 9th and 11th, a pair and two juveniles from 12th-August 12th, a female on 23rd and 25th and finally a male on September 5th. Five were in Chat Valley and two in Happy Valley on August 1st, then four at the later site on 21st, a juvenile visited a Malvern Link garden on August 5th and Hollybed Common held three on 6th, a juvenile on 15th, one on 31st and three on September 7th. Other autumn sightings were of singles at Abberton on August 8th and September 18th, Walton Hill on August 24th, Upper Arley on 26th, Castlemorton Common on September 26th, Haws Hill on 30th and Bredon Hill on October 1st. Staffs The first spring record was at Rudyard Lake on April 9th. Breeding was confirmed for Gun Hill, Morridge, Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth. On spring migration significant numbers included five birds at Brocton Coppice on April 23rd and five at the Punchbowl on the 24th. In addition, small numbers of passage migrants were noted at Apedale, Branston Water Park, Crumpwood, Elkstones, Knotbury, Longnor, Morridge, The Sprink, Upper Hulme and Warslow. During the breeding season the majority of records came from Cannock Chase, particu- larly Brocton Coppice, Seven Springs and the Stepping Stones; and the North Staffs Moors, where an extensive survey discovered around 70 pairs holding territories. The map shows clearly the two main areas for this species in the county. In the post-breeding season there was a small flock of five birds at Tittesworth on July 23rd and three on August 14th. Ones and twos were noted at Belvide, Blithfield, Swallow Moss and Wootton with the final birds being seen at Belvide and Doxey Marshes on August 31st. W Mid Males were in Lutley Wedge on April 9th and 16th. Spring passage was noted in Sandwell Valley between April 17th and 23rd (noted on four dates with a peak of four on 18th) while two females were in Smestow Valley on April 17th with a male and female present in Dunstall Park on 18th. A juvenile was at Marsh Lane NR on July 31st. A protracted autumn passage in Sandwell Valley began with one on July 26th followed by birds on a further 16 dates up until September 18th with a peak count of three birds on August 23rd). One was along Brownhills NT on September 1st.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon or frequent, but much declined, summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Average dates: 23rd April (68) to 8th October (64).

138 Early birds were seen at Wormleighton Res. on April 17th and at Sandwell Valley on the 19th. The last record is of a very late bird at Priors Hardwick on October 26th. Warks After early males were noted at Wormleighton Res. on April 17th, Hams Hall and Bodymoor Heath on 18th and at Kingsbury on 19th, a further 14 were recorded during the period April 21st-May 9th. The largest concentration was four at Baginton Airport on May 1st, with one or two also during this period at Attleborough Fields, Bermuda, Brandon, DMC Kineton, Dosthill and Ladywalk. An early return bird was at Wasperton on July 14th, and then a total of 33 appeared at 11 sites during the period August 23rd-September 27th. Counts of three or above were concentrated into a window of just seven days in mid September illustrating the period of peak passage, and included: three at Fenny Compton on September 10th, five at Priors Hardwick on 11th, three at Salford Priors GP on 12th, three at Charlecote GP on 15th and four at Ilmington Downs on 16th. In marked contrast to spring when most birds were in the north of the county, virtually all autumn birds were in the south. The year ended with a very late juvenile at Priors Hardwick on October 26th. Worcs Small numbers of spring passage birds reported, the first being one at Aston Mill East on April 24th. Singles were noted at Upton Warren on April 24th, Wassell Grove Pools on 29th, 30th and May 1st and Himbleton on 2nd. Lower Moor held a male on May 2nd, a pair on 3rd and 4th and a female on 7th, a male was on Bredon Hill on 2nd and 10th, one at Westwood Park on 5th, one at Sheriff’s Lench on 6th, Whinchat, Grimley New Workings, Andy Warr one at Shenstone on 8th and one at Upton Warren on 10th. A relatively strong autumn passage recorded during August and September, with the best localities being as follows. Throckmorton Tip held birds between August 4th-September 23rd, with a maximum count of three on September 19th, Hollybed Common held three adults on August 6th, two juveniles on 10th and two adults on 15th and at Gwen Finch Wetland, a male was present from August 13th-31st, two on September 2nd, one on 7th, three on 16th and one on 19th. Grimley New Workings produced the best counts, with birds present from August 21st-September 20th, including five on September 9th, six on 8th, four on 10th, six on 12th and four on 13th. Holt Prairies held a juvenile on August 22nd, two on 23rd and five on 28th and Barnett Brook four on September 15th and two between 16th-18th. Singles, other than stated recorded at Lower Moor on August 8th, Upton Warren on 10th, 31st and September 13th, Westwood Park on August 12th, 13th, 16th, 17th and September 23rd, Rous Lench on August 31st and September 1st and Abberton on 4th, 5th and 12th (two). Lower Bittell Reservoir held one on September 11th, two were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 11th and 15th, two at Shenstone on 14th, then one on 15th, two at Tilesford on 19th and two at Bishampton Vale Pool on 19th and one on 23rd.

139 Staffs The first records of the year were from Penn Common and Whitemoor Haye on April 25th. There were two reports of breeding, both on June 27th, when birds were seen to deliver food to nests at Drystone Edge and Readyleach Green. In late April and early May birds, in ones and twos, were recorded on spring migration at Baldwins Gate STW, Blithfield, Chasewater, Doxey Marshes, Drayton Bassett Pits, Westport and Whitemoor Haye. Knotbury seems to have held the majority of breeding season birds with a maximum of four seen in May and six in June; these were probably the same birds as the confirmed breeders above. Two very early returning birds, presumably failed breeders, were seen at Bent Lane on July 19th. After this, very small numbers were recorded for the return migration, with a maximum of five at Belvide on August 13th then ones and twos at Blithfield, Branston GP, Chasewater, Doxey Marshes, Fleet Green and the Roaches with a single bird at Aqualate on September 21st seeming to end things. However, nearly two months later, on November 14th, two stragglers were seen at Doxey Marshes. W Mid Singles, unless otherwise stated, were recorded in Sandwell Valley on April 19th, 20th, 23rd (two) and May 14th. Singles were also present in Smestow Valley on May 1st and 3rd with one in Dunstall Park on 19th while another was on Pelsall North Common on May 16th. In the late summer, one was seen at Wiggins Hill, Minworth on August 21st while two were in Sandwell Valley on August 25th followed by birds on 26th, 31st (two), September 15th and 24th. There were three in Smestow Valley on September 11th with one present on 15th.

Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks It was another good year, but there is still no sign of any attempt to breed again in the county. During January-February, wintering birds included three at Kingsbury, two each at Bermuda and Brandon, and singles at Alvecote, Dosthill, Gaydon Tip, Griff and Salford Priors GP. On spring passage further singles turned up at Charlecote GP on February 26th, Napton Res. on March 3rd, Ladywalk on 15th, and Seeswood Pool on 17th. Several also passed through Brandon, with the last on March 28th. Juveniles at Priors Hardwick on September 6th and in gorse on Brailes Hill on 9th marked the beginning of autumn passage. Subsequently, about 20 autumn migrants passed through during the period September 23rd-November 10th including up to three on various dates at Ilmington Downs, and one or two at Alvecote, Brailes Hill, Brandon, Fenny Compton, Kingsbury, Lighthorne Quarry and Seeswood Pool. Over-wintering birds during November-December included up to four at Brandon, with pairs at Coleshill STW, DMC Kineton, Kingsbury and Tysoe; and single birds at Fisher’s Mill GP, Hawkesbury and Radway. Worcs Probably the best year on record during both the breeding season and winter periods. At least 10 breeding pairs were reported from the Malvern Hills and Commons, compared to six in 2003 and two pairs held territories on Bredon Hill. During the autumn and both winter periods, reports came from 41 localities involving at least 150 individuals, the highest group counts being five on Bredon Hill, five in Chat Valley, seven at Grimley New Workings, seven at Gwen Finch Wetland, six on Hangman’s Hill, seven in Happy Valley, 10 at Hollybed Common, four at Lower Moor, nine on North Hill, six on Sugarloaf Hill, seven at Throckmorton Tip, five at Upton Warren and seven on Walton Hill. Staffs On Cannock Chase, eight pairs were located at Brocton Coppice, one with two young, plus a pair at the Katyn Memorial. In addition, three were seen in the Sherbrook Valley area and seven at Marquis Drive, suggesting an increasing breeding population. Compare this with ten pairs located in 2003 during a full survey. Additionally, pairs with

140 young were recorded at Gun Hill, Knotbury and the Roaches with probable breeding also at Folly Farm Boarsgrove (one pair) and Cuckoo Bank (five birds present in May, two in June). In the first winter period, records came from 23 sites, long-stayers being two males and a female at Black Bank to February 8th, a female at Blithfield to February 21st, three at Cuckoo Bank, two at Radford Bank to January 21st and a male at Whitemoor Haye to February 8th. Just one bird was recorded on Cannock Chase in January but from early March there was a gradual return of the breeding birds. An out of season record of a bird at Coldmeece Pools occurred on July 6th. In the second winter period birds were recorded at 29 sites, the most being 16 in the Sherbrook Valley on October 17th. Long-stayers included up to three at Aqualate from October 18th, one at Belvide from October 27th, five at Black Bank in October dropped to two in December, one at Blithfield from October 16th, at least six on the Chase in November dropping to four in December, up to seven at Cuckoo Bank from October to the year end, and four at Doxey in October dropping to two in December. W Mid In the first winter period, a pair was in the Swan Pool area of Sandwell Valley from January 1st until February 14th at least, with another male on the RSPB reserve on February 21st. A pair was at Marsh Lane NR from January 1st until February 29th when the female departed though the male remained until March 15th. There then followed another female on March 21st; one was in Goscote Valley on January 11th and 19th, a pair was also present in Lutley Wedge on February 14th followed by March birds on 15th, 17th and 20th (three females). March records included singletons in Smestow Valley on 16th and 24th, Sandwell Valley on 18th (Swan Pool), 19th (RSPB Reserve), 22nd (two birds) and Bradnock’s Marsh on March 29th. Autumn/second winter period records comprised two in Sandwell Valley on September 18th with three noted between October 9th and 16th, two in Lutley Wedge on September 21st and 25th, Bartley Reservoir on September 24th (two), 27th (two), and October 1st, a male at Marsh Lane NR between September 29th and October 4th, Goscote Valley on October 11th and December 22nd. A pair was present in Blythe Valley CP from November 19th until the year’s end. Reported to have wintered at Bowmans Harbour in Wednesfield.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Frequent, but possibly declining, summer visitor, mainly to north Staffs. Fairly common and widespread on passage. One winter record. Average dates: 19th March (67) to 18th October (68). An average arrival with the first birds being seen on March 17th at Birchmoor, Bredon Hill, Wassell Grove Pools and Penn Common. The last record came from Marsh Lane NR on October 10th. Warks An excellent spring passage occurred during the period March 17th-May 13th, with around 160 birds reported from 22 sites (cf. 65 at 17 sites in 2003). Counts of three or more birds came from: Baginton Airport, three on March 18th, six on 23rd and five on 28th; Draycote, three on March 30th, six on April 16th and four on 17th; Hams Hall, ten on April 18th; Kingsbury, 12 on 19th; Priors Hardwick, seven on 21st and four on 22nd; and Wishaw, 14 on April 14th increasing to 16 on 18th, with six on 19th. There were also five by Lighthorne Rough on April 30th, four about the same time at Kenilworth, and four at Corley Moor on May 3rd. After an odd midsummer bird at Draycote on June 16th, return passage was recorded from July 31st-September 19th, involving about 84 birds at 15 sites (cf. 74 at 17 in 2003). Passage was mainly concentrated into the last week of August and the first two weeks of September, with an unusual lack of October records. Counts of three or more included: Claverdon, up to three in the last week of August; Draycote, three on

141 August 26th, five on September 13th-14th and three on 15th; Lower Radbourn, six on August 31st and 12 on September 6th; and Priors Hardwick, seven on August 30th. An unusual record was of a bird which spent much of the day on the roof of the county recorder’s house in Fenny Compton on September 18th, and was still present at dusk. Worcs One confirmed breeding record from British Camp on the Malvern Hills, where a pair with two juveniles were observed from June 30th-mid August. A strong spring passage recorded, with the first individuals observed on Bredon Hill and at Wassell Grove Pools on March 17th, then a trickle of birds passed through the county during late March and early April. Sightings during this period came from Wassell Grove Pools, with singles on 19th and 28th, two on April 8th and 9th, one on 10th, three on 14th and two on 15th. Barnett Brook held a female on March 18th, one was at British Camp and Wychbury Hill on 19th, singles at Clifton Pits, Kinsham Lake and Tibberton on 21st, one at Westwood Pool on 22nd, 23rd and 24th and six at Holt Prairies on 22nd, then one on 24th. The Clent Hills held three on March 26th, one on 27th and two on 28th, Bredon Hill held four on 26th, one on 29th, one on April 9th and two on 13th and at British Camp three were present on 29th. Singles were also recorded at Wiseman’s Scrape on March 27th, Throckmorton on 28th, Happy Valley and North Hill on 31st and Walton Hill on April 8th and 10th. Walton Hill also held three on April 11th and two on 14th, at Grimley New and Old Workings three individuals were noted on 12th and singles were observed at Clent Hills and Westwood Park on 15th and 16th. Numbers increased dramatically from April 16th, the strong passage continuing until 19th. Daily counts between this period were 56 on 16th, including seven on Bredon hill, 12 at Upton Warren, 19 at Wassell Grove Pools and six at Wiseman’s Scrape, 78 on 17th, including seven at Throckmorton Tip, 22 at Wassell Grove Pools and 39 at Wiseman’s Scrape, 52 on 18th, including five at Grimley New Workings, four on North Hill, eight at Whitehouse Farm, 22 at Wiseman’s Scrape and five on Worcestershire Beacon and 28 on 19th, including three at Chat Valley, four on Clent Hills, five at Holt Prairies, five at Westwood Park and three at Wiseman’s Scrape. Small numbers also observed at Bredon’s Hardwick, Castlemorton Common, Churchill, Conderton, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Tibberton and Walton Hill during this bumper period. Here after, totals returned to a normal level, with the only exception being on May 2nd when Bredon Hill and Wassell Grove Pools both held groups of 15 birds. Other counts above two were made at Wassell Grove Pools, with three present on April 27th, five on 28th and four on 29th and May 1st, five were on Bredon Hill on 3rd and five at Wiseman’s Scrape on 10th. Singles or pairs also observed at Bredon’s Hardwick, Bricklehampton, Fladbury, Grimley New Workings, Holt Prairies, Kinsham Lake, Ryall Pits, Sheriff’s Lench, Sugarloaf Hill, Throckmorton Tip, Tibberton, Upton Warren and Walton Hill. The final spring passage bird was recorded at Lower Moor on May 17th. Autumn passage birds began to arrive from August 1st, with singles noted on this date at Grimley New Workings and on Worcester shire Beacon. Singles were reported from Barnett Brook on August 5th and at Hollybed Common on 6th, but than no other sightings were made, apart from the breeding pair at British Camp, until 14th, when one was at Throckmorton Tip. The highest group counts made after this date were of four at Throckmorton Tip on 22nd and Bredon Hill held nine on September 2nd, 11 on 6th and five on 27th. Singles or pairs were reported from Throckmorton Tip on many dates between August 28th-September 23rd and on Bredon Hill between September 28th-November 1st. Singles other than stated also recorded during the autumn at Abberton (two), Bittell Reservoir, Bredon’s Hardwick, Grimley, Gwen Finch, Happy Valley, Hollybed Common, Kington, Ryall Pits, Shenstone, Tilesford and Walton Hill.

142 Staffs The first returns were two birds seen at Penn Common on March 17th. There were only three confirmed reports of breeding; at Gradbach, Oxensitch and Readyleach Green, with nine pairs recorded at a further six sites on the North Staffs Moors during the breeding season. Apart from a small peak of six at Whitemoor Haye on March 20th, migration did not really get off the ground until mid-April with just ones and twos being reported across the county until the 16th when there were eight at Blithfield and seven at Doxey Marshes. There was then a flurry of activity on the 17th with 11 at Barton GP, six at Blithfield and 20 at Doxey Marshes; on the 18th with 10 at Blithfield and 25 at Doxey Marshes and on the 19th with 13 at Red Street and eight at Whitemoor Haye; the larger numbers petering out on the 24th with 11 at Blithfield. The last spring migrant appeared at Silverdale Colliery on May 20th. There were no real peaks in the autumn migration, the maximum number being eight reported for Blithfield on August 28th, where the first returning bird, an immature, was seen on July 31st. Although the vast majority of autumn records were from Blithfield the final sighting of the year was a singleton at Dunston Heath on September 25th. W Mid A protracted passage noted from Sandwell Valley with the first bird on March 18th followed by birds on a further 11 dates with the last two on May 6th, peak counts being a very notable 38 on April 17th. Interestingly, a similar passage was noted through Dunstall Park where one was present most days between March 18th and 25th joined by a second bird on the latter date followed by a noticeable wave during April 12th and 19th when two were noted on 12th, six on 13th, three on 15th rising to 16 on 16th and an impressive 31 on 17th (cf. Sandwell Valley), 10 on 18th and two on 19th with one present between April 27th and May 3rd. One was noted at Sheepwash UP on April 3rd with three on 11th. On April 11th, there was one in Blythe Valley CP, two in the Clayhanger/Ryders Hayes Mere area with 14 on 17th and one on 24th. A good spring passage at Goscote Valley brought birds on April 13th (two), 16th (seven), 17th (13), 19th (four) and 20th, four were at Marsh Lane NR on April 16th and 17th with singles present on 18th until 20th, two on 23 rd and one on 26th, seven were counted off Steelpark Way on April 16th with four present on May 2nd and 15 were at Clayhanger on April 17th. Four were in Smestow Valley on April 17th with two present on 24th. Reported from Bartley Reservoir on April 26th. Sandwell Valley had returning migrants on August 7th, 25th, 31st (three), September 15th (three) and 29th. Singles were in Dunstall Park on August 14th and 15th. Singletons were on Darby’s Hill on September 1st and at Marsh Lane NR on September 6th, 9th, 18th and October 10th. A late bird at Bartley Reservoir on October 1st.

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorhoa Rare or scarce passage migrant (8/10). Warks Six large bright birds at Dosthill on April 17th RED and singles at Birchmoor on 18th RLS and Haunch Lane, Lea Marston on 22nd BLK were all thought to be of this race. Worcs Birds reported to have shown characteristics of the Greenland race were reported from Wiseman’s Scrape, with up to 10 noted with Northern Wheatears on April 17th SMW, eight on 18th SMW, two on 27th SMW, two on May 2nd WD and one on 5th TMH. Other sightings were of one at Whitehouse farm, with Northern Wheatears on April 18th BW, seven on Bredon Hill on May 2nd REH, one at Grimley Old Workings on 5th BS and one at Westwood Park on 7th SMW. W Mid A female exhibiting characteristics of this race was one of the 38 recorded in Sandwell Valley on April 17th.

143 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Scarce and declining, summer resident on the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Average dates: 30th March (68) to 27th October (42). The first birds were seen at Chat Valley on March 23rd and Bilston on the 24th. The last bird was seen at Fenny Compton on October 25th apart from a wintering bird at Berrow Green on December 30th! Warks Three records are about average. There was a male at Draycote on April 18th CHP, followed in autumn by another male at Brandon on October 17th CHP and a first- winter bird in scrub by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 25th JJB. Worcs During Spring passage, singles were in Chat Valley on March 23rd, St. Kenelms Pass on 26th, North Hill on 28th and Walton Hill and North Hill on April 9th. Wassell Grove Pools held two on April 14th, then singles from 15th-17th, two were on North Hill and one on Walton Hill on 17th, four at Hill End on 18th, three on the North Malvern Hills and two on Walton Hill on 18th and three still present on the North Malvern hills on 19th and 25th. Wassell Grove Pools held singles on April 27th, 28th, 30th and May 2nd, a male was observed in a Redditch Garden on April 28th, 29th and May 1st, three were on Clent Hills on April 29th, then two on 30th and one on May 2nd and two on Adam’s Hill on April 29th, with one remaining until May 1st. A poor autumn passage recorded this year, with just three possibly four individuals reported from the Malvern Hills and three on Bredon Hill. Singles were in the Happy Valley on September 19th, 28th, October 10th and 11th, followed by two from 12th-14th, then singles on 31st, November 1st and 3rd. Bredon Hill held singles on September 27th, October 1st and 18th, one was in Chat Valley on October 9th and in East Valley on 10th. A wintering male was observed amongst a flock of Fieldfare at Berrow Green on December 30th BW. Staffs First reported from its traditional breeding grounds on March 28th with a single bird being seen at Three Shires Head and a spring maximum of five seen at Knotbury on April 22nd. There were only two reports of apparent breeding with one pair seen carrying food at the Roaches on May 16th and another at Knotbury on June 4th and 6th. Away from the moorlands there were a few records of spring migrants; in the south of the county at Castle Croft and Pool Hall Reservoir where single birds were seen on April 13th (possibly the same bird given the proximity of these sites) and in the north at Biddulph Park where six birds were seen to go to roost in holly on April 14th. There was no obvious autumn migration with the last record being for a bird seen at Knotbury on June 14th. W Mid One was reported from Stowlawn in Bilston on March 24th with one at Bowmans Harbour on April 23rd. A good crop of April records in Sandwell Valley with single males noted on 9th, 12th, 13th and 24th. A male in Smestow Valley on April 13th with three birds present on 17th and two males noted on 18th. A male was in Dunstall Park on May 1st.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The May total of 130 at DMC Kineton, was only beaten by the count of 148 in 2002. Autumn migrants were noted on the southern hills from September 28th, but numbers were below average until the very end of October, which led up to an impressive influx during the first two weeks in November. Most counts were of 50 or below, but there were 67 at Cubbington on October 31st, followed by at least 200 around Fenny Compton on November 1st and 120 at Wormleighton Res. on 8th. Full song was heard at Fenny Compton on the unusual date of December 6th.

144 Worcs Four pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and 46 pairs bred at Tibberton. Apples in a Malvern Link garden attracted maximum counts of 15 in February and 12 in March and the only other count came from the Happy Valley, with 20 present on November 3rd. Staffs It is quite clear from the scattered nature of the observations for this very common bird that it is very under-recorded, indeed most records come from BirdTrack. W Mid On Mons Hill CBC plot, 30 territories were noted. The populations at Marsh Lane NR and along Smestow Valley were reported as ‘stable’.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs. Moors 1974-77, 1980 and 1985. Average dates: 1st October (69) to 3rd May (68). An early autumn bird was seen at Rugeley on September 9th; the next sightings being at Brandon and Fenny Compton on September 30th. The last bird was seen at Ingestre on May 10th. Warks Generally numerous across the county during January-March, with many flocks of around 200-350 reported. Maxima included 750 at Chesterton on January 7th, 600 in the Curdworth/Wishaw area on 8th, 410 at Leek Wootton on February 10th, 600 at Chadshunt on 12th, 500 at Wasperton on 13th, 600 at Wormleighton Res. on 18th, and 500 at Kineton on 27th, while at Fenny Compton numbers increased from 550 on February 25th to a peak of 1400 on March 2nd as northward-going migrants arrived. Later in March there were further peaks of 400 in Shuckburgh Park on 9th, 850 at Poolfields and 530 at Hampton Lucy on 16th, 470 at Wormleighton Res. on 18th, 415 at Knightcote on 24th and 480 at Priors Hardwick on 30th. April maxima included 1000 at Chesterton on 1st, 510 near Napton Res. on 2nd, 465 at Fenny Compton on 10th, 215 at Lighthorne Quarry on 11th and 135 at Broadwell on 16th; with 50 at Fenny Compton on April 18th, the last report. Autumn migrants arrived back on September 30th, when one was seen at Brandon and six flew south-west at Fenny Compton. Small numbers were then reported daily from October 2nd, with the first big flocks of 400 over Nuneaton on 7th and 200 at Radway on 12th. A huge influx began to reach the favoured south-east during the last week, with flocks increasing at Priors Hardwick from 650 on October 26th to 3000 by November 1st. Numbers reached their highest during the period November 5th-7th, when it was estimated that over 20000 birds were occupying a strip of country about 7 km by 6 km stretching roughly between the Dassett Hills in the south-west to Marston Doles in the north-east. The largest flocks within this area consisted of 7000 at Knightcote, 5000 at Fenny Compton and 4500 at Priors Hardwick. Outside this area there were also flocks of 800 at Radway and 2000 at Brailes on November 2nd, while flocks of 3-500 appeared at various localities down the Avon Valley. It remained abundant to the end of the year in the south, with counts including 1200 at Wormleighton Res. on November 8th, 2000 in the Stoneton area on 11th, 1500 at Fenny Compton on 29th, 1700 at Priors Hardwick on December 2nd, 2300 at Knightcote on 6th, 1500 in the Napton Res. area on 8th, 1000 at Brailes on 14th and 1000 at Dunnington on 19th. It was either less common or more probably under-recorded in the north, with a peak of 800 at Alvecote on December 8th. Worcs During the first winter period, Tibberton held flocks numbering 130-215 on many dates between January 4th and March 8th. Other groups of 100+ birds reported at Abberton, with 100 on January 25th, 150 were at Upper Arley on March 4th, 100 at Wassell Grove on 17th, 100 at Westwood Park on 28th, 350 on Bredon Hill on 29th, then 180 on April 6th, 150 at Stoke Bliss on April 4th and 200 at Kempsey on 11th. Small numbers still present during

145 the second half of April, the last sightings being one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 24th, one at Wassell Grove on 30th and four at Himbleton on May 2nd. No sightings of returning birds reported until October 1st, when two were noted on Bredon hill, then on the 9th 1000+ were observed heading west over Happy Valley, 150 were at Lower Moor and 200 were counted in an hour over Walton Hill. Other notable counts were of 90 in Happy Valley on October 19th, 750 at Bredon Field Farm on November 7th and 140 and 500 on Bredon Hill on 15th and 28th respectively. During December Castlemorton Common held 500 on 12th, 200 on 19th and 23rd, 500 were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th and 1200 at Berrow Green on 31st. Staffs The larger early winter flocks were as follows; January: 120 at Ellastone, 185 at Keele University and 225 at Marstongate Farm; February: 150 at Hanchurch Woods, 164 at Norbury Park and 120 at Tittensor; March: 200 at Belvide, 300 at Chapel Chorlton, 140 at Leigh and 250 at Sturbridge. Records continued well into April, flocks of 620 at Caltonmoor and 450 at Stubwood being reported for the 1st, 150 for Dunston Heath on the 8th, 200 at Stableford on the 10th and 83 at Newborough on the 21st; the final sighting being at Keele on the 24th. A very late bird landed at Ingestre on May 10th after a thunderstorm. Autumn observations started on September 9th with 12 birds seen at Rugeley in a mixed flock with Redwings. There were no further September sightings, the next being a single at Chasewater on October 3rd. Migration started in earnest on October 9th when 225 birds were seen at Baswich and several smaller counts elsewhere. Observations peaked over the period October 25th to 31st with Black Bank the most prolific site, having southerly migrations of 650 on the 26th, 380 on 30th and 330 on 31st. Good numbers also reported from Branston Gravel Pit (300), Grindon Moor (200) and Swallow Moss (100). Migration continued to November 5th at Black Bank when 150 passed through. Other high counts in November were 220 at Leigh, 110 at River Sow Meadows Baswich and 200 at Tittesworth. There were some significant flocks seen in December, 1000 being reported for Cuckoo Bank, 700 for Belvide, 300 each for Ingestre and Lower Cowley and 250 for Bateswood Lake and Doveleys. W Mid Rather scarce in both winter periods with records from few localities. Over 200 were at Marsh Lane NR on January 29th with a similar number still present on April 1st. while 60 were at Dunstall Park on March 24th. In excess of 70 in Sandwell Valley in April was the only notable count from this site. The largest flock of note at Smestow Valley was 18 overhead on October 29th. Reasonably sized flocks were regularly reported from Marsh Lane NR from October 9th until the end of the year peaking at 170 following drizzly conditions on November 6th with another peak of 150 on December 10th.

2003 Addendum Warks There were two very late birds at DMC Kineton on May 18th.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined, though still abundant, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The total of 45 logged at DMC Kineton on the annual May census was the highest ever there, beating the previous best count of 39 in 2002. Four pairs were present in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot. Six territories at Brandon and four at Birchmoor were both down from 2003, when there were eight and seven respectively. Autumn passage was noticeably late, with the first migrants in the southern hills not appearing until September 28th (cf. 18th in 2003). Subsequent passage was fairly modest, but with a notable influx in early November corresponding to the arrival of other thrushes. The best counts were of 70 at Brailes Hill on October 11th, at least 50 on the Fenny

146 Compton Hills on November 1st, 70 at Knightcote on 7th, an impressive 100 at Worm - leighton Res. on 8th and 35 at Napton Res. on 12th. Winter counts included 18 in paddocks at Shustoke on February 15th and 20 in a meadow at Priors Hardwick on December 2nd. Worcs Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and 13 territories were held at Tibberton. The only record received outside the breeding season was of 15 in the Happy Valley on October 9th. Staffs The rather scattered nature of the records for this declining species make it difficult to assess how well they reflect the status of the bird in the county. There are, for example, far fewer records for the west of the county. It is perhaps significant that there are only two sites reporting this species in double figures, with a maximum of 20 (ten pairs) at Doxey Marshes and 16 at Belvide. Belvide had eight pairs breeding with single pairs reported for Aston-by-Stone, Doley Common and Rickerscote. Four males held territories at Bateswood, compared with three in 2003. W Mid Singing birds were reported from Handsworth Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least four in song), Mons Hill CBC plot (four territories), Sandwell Valley (reported to be stable), Sheepwash UP (four –numbers increasing), Smestow Valley and Turls Hill (two). Six seen together at the Barley Field in Smestow Valley on September 29th were believed to be migrants.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Average dates: 26th September (70) to 17th April (69). Apart from an early bird at Rugeley on September 9th, the main arrivals were seen across the region on the 26th-29th. The last bird was seen at Belvide on April 12th. Warks Moderate-sized flocks were fairly widespread during the first quarter, with maxima of around 200 at Chesterton on January 7th, Knightcote on February 5th and Fenny Compton on 13th, and with 165 in Packington Park on March 4th. Other flocks of 100 or more were noted during this period at: Ashorne, Chadshunt, Marston Jabbett, Moreton Morrell, Newbold Pacey and Poolfields. The last reports were of 20 at Fenny Compton on April 7th and one at Lighthorne Quarry on 11th. The autumn influx began with one south-west at Wormleighton Res. on September 28th, followed by two at Napton Hill and an exceptional 80 at Brandon on 29th, and then four at Ladywalk and seven south- west at Fenny Compton on 30th. The main passage commenced on October 8th, when 425 flew south-west over Napton Hill in 45 minutes; together with 300 over Nuneaton and 125 over Packington on the same day. On October 11th, 900 moved south-west over Brailes Hill in 75 minutes; with subsequent peaks of 200 at Brandon on 17th, 350 at Wormleighton Res. on 19th, 250 moving south-west at Knightcote on 24th, 280 at Priors Hardwick on 26th, 300 south-west over Charlecote GP on 27th, and 450 at Fenny Compton on 30th-31st. During the first week of November there was a large influx, although not on the same scale as Fieldfare. Maxima included 500 at Brailes on 2nd, 800 at Priors Hardwick on 5th, 1000 at Fenny Compton on 6th, 2500 at Knightcote on 7th and 1000 at Wormleighton Res. on 8th. Flocks of up to 400 were then widespread in the south to the end of the year, with maxima of 800 at Wormleighton Res. on November 28th, 800 at Knightcote on December 6th, 1200 in the Napton Res. area on 8th and 600 at Brailes on 14th. Worcs During the first winter period Tibberton held maximum counts of 730 in January, 450 in February and 180 in March, 400+ were at Oakley Pool on February 19th, 50 at Upper Arley on March 4th and 100 at Wassell Grove on 17th. A group of 10 late departing birds flew north over Bredon Hill on April 6th. Small numbers were observed between late

147 September and early October, with four at Sheriff’s Lench on September 26th, one at Barbourne on 30th, three at Bredon Hill on October 1st and 10 at Stoke Bliss on 2nd. A large movement of birds was observed on October 9th, with at least 4500 heading west over Walton Hill, 600 over Happy Valley, 200 over Bredon Hill, 200 over Forehill and large numbers also reported over Broadway, the largest single flock being 100 birds. Other counts included 100 at Wyche Cutting on October 19th, 130 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on November 12th, 250 at Stoke Bliss on 24th, 90 at Upper Arley on 28th, 60 at Trueman’s Heath on December 11th, 200 at Castlemorton Common on 12th, 200+ on Bredon Hill on 19th and 150 at Castlemorton Common on 19th. Staffs At the beginning of the year birds were reported throughout January, February and March with return migration ending in mid-April, the last bird being seen at Belvide on the 12th. January numbers were low with a maximum of just 40 seen at Okeover on the 14th. February saw the highest numbers, with 100 at Pool Dam Marshes on the 14th, 100 at Blithfield on the 15th, 60 at Norbury Park on the 20th, 80 at Boldershaw on the 22nd and 60 at Marston on the 27th. The highest March counts of 50 came from The Sprink and Belvide. Autumn migration observations began on September 9th with 12 birds seen at Rugeley, then singles at Branston Water Park, Chasewater and Lichfield on 29th. Numbers then remained very low until early October when the 9th saw significant numbers at several sites including 76 at Acton Trussell, 105 at Baswich, 100 at Doxey Marshes, 40 at Gillow Heath and 98 at Silverdale Colliery. This was followed by a major passage on the 10th with 2000 birds flying west over Black Bank in an hour early in the morning, 150 from Cannock Chase, 200 from Tittesworth and 200 from Wetley Moor. Early winter numbers were generally good with larger counts in late October of 100 at Apedale, 200 at Clay Mills and 270 at Black Bank; in November 76 at Doxey and 50 at Quixhill; in December 200 at Bateswood Lake, 300 at Belvide, 160 at Black Bank, 100 at Church Eaton, 200 at Lower Cowley and 250 at the River Dove (Norbury). W Mid As with Fieldfare, rather scarce in both winter periods with records from few localities. A flock of 156 was feeding in fields at Marsh Lane NR on January 8th while 60 were in Smestow Valley on January 10th. Up to 150 were feeding on football pitches in Senneleys Park in Bartley Green on January 21st. In excess of 70 in Sandwell Valley in April was the only notable count from this site. The first of the autumn at Marsh Lane NR were two flying over on October 3rd with heavy passage noted on 9th and 10th with 200 and 291 recorded respectively. Up to140 flew over Smestow Valley on October 11th while 250 were in Blythe Valley CP on October 27th. Also reported from Bilston (garden), Dorridge (garden) and Sheepwash UP.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Warks Territory counts included three at Brandon Marsh and Ladbroke Park, four at Offchurch, five in the Shuckburgh Park area (cf. six in 2002), and four in both the Ufton Fields area and at Willoughby. An increase in the number of post-breeding flocks reported this year probably indicated a good breeding season; and among the larger counts were 17 at Temple Pool (Upton) on June 27th, 25 at Butlers Marston on July 13th, 22 at Broom on August 15th, 17 at Moreton Morrell on September 1st and a peak of 31 at Brandon on 25th. Worcs Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and three at Tibberton. Other reports were of 36 on Bredon Hill on July 28th, 12 at Abberton on August 28th and September 9th, seven at Bittell Reservoir on 9th, one at Hollybed Common and two at Huntsbridge on

148 26th, three at Upper Arley on October 31st, six at Huntsbridge on November 6th and six at Upper Arley on December 26th. Staffs Reported throughout the county, albeit in very low numbers. Even those sites that are systematically watched could only produce single-figure maxima e.g. six at Belvide, two at Chasewater, six at Doxey Marshes and four at Westport Lake. Breeding was recorded at Belvide, where a pair raised four young, Crumpwood a pair with four young, Doxey Marshes with three pairs, Doley Common, Rugeley Power Station a pair with two young, Weston Jones with one pair and Westport Lake with two pairs. There were small post-breeding flocks noted at Gailey, with 28 birds on July 19th and at Musden Low, with 12 birds on the 2nd. W Mid Singing/breeding birds were noted at Aldridge (confirmed breeding), Bilston Cemetery, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot (two territories), Sandwell Valley (at least two in song), Sheepwash UP area, Smestow Valley and Turls Hill. Up to 25 birds were counted in Sandwell Valley in August.

Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Warks An excellent breeding season at Brandon, with at least five territories occupied during the summer and six in the autumn. During the year a total of 26 different birds were processed here in only one section of the breeding area, consisting of two males, six females and 18 juveniles BMCG. With the species doing well at Brandon it had long been anticipated that new areas of the county would soon be colonised; and this year finally saw this process beginning to happen. A pair nested at a site 1 km from Brandon, in the Ryton-on-Dunsmore area per JJB, but was unfortunately robbed by an egg collector. Single singing males were also heard at Coombe Abbey on May 16th NDBC and along the River Avon near Barford from at least May 19th until well into August MRM. The latter bird may have been breeding, and follows unconfirmed reports of a singing male a short distance upstream from here at Warwick in 2003. Outside the breeding season, there were single birds in the Tame Valley at Fisher’s Mill GP on January 16th JH and Ladywalk on November 11th BLK. Cettiʼs Warbler, Phil Jones Worcs The breeding population at Upton Warren remained stable, with three broods at the Moors Pools (11 fledged) and one on the Educational Reserve (four fledged). Five singing males were resident on the reserve, three on the Moors Pools and singles on the Educational Reserve and the Hen/Flash Pools AW et al. One was present at Westwood Pool from November 8th-19th SMW et al and another at Bishampton Vale Pool from 14th-16th WFP et al, both being colour-ringed juveniles from Upton Warren. Staffs One was seen at Handsacre Flash on March 5th-6th MY et al. Then, possibly last

149 year’s wintering female, returned to Belvide on November 9th and remained until the year’s end SN et al. The sixth and seventh county records.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Average dates: April 17th (68) to August 28th (58). The first record was on the early date of April 7th at Brandon; the last on September 5th at Chasewater. Warks A total of 16 reeling males on territory was an improvement over 2003, when just 11 were located. These were reported from: Alvecote (two), Brandon (three), DMC Kineton (three), Dosthill, Draycote, Kingsbury (three), Ladywalk, Lighthorne Quarry and Salford Priors GP. It was another early spring arrival, with birds noted at Brandon on April 7th, Whittleford Park on 8th, and at both Ladywalk and Grasshopper Warbler, Kingsbury WP, John Harris Lighthorne Quarry on 11th. Further passage birds sang at Napton Res. on April 16th and at Birchmoor on 24th. Worcs Two pairs bred at Lower Bittell Reservoir and a pair bred successfully at Castlemorton Common. Reports of reeling males came from Wassell Grove Pools on April 14th, Upton Warren on 16th, 19th and June 17th, Warndon on April 17th, Nafford on 18th, Rous Lench on 20th, Abberton on 22nd and May 3rd and Alfrick on April 24th. A reeling male was heard at Lower Moor on April 24th, 25th, May 5th (pair observed), 12th and July 21st. Other reeling male noted at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 25th, August 15th and 18th, at Timber- honger for five days in early May, Hill Furze on June 4th and 5th, Strensham Lagoons on July 4th and Arley Wood on 30th. Staffs First reported on April 16th, when two birds were seen at Drayton Bassett Pits,

150 the species was recorded at 27 sites, mostly in the north and west of the county (see map). Although there were no reports of breeding, reeling males were noted at the following locations: Black Bank, Branston Water Park, Chatterley, Clay Mills, Cuckoo Bank, Doley, Doxey Marshes, Drayton Bassett, Goldsitch Moss, Katyn Memorial, Pool Dam Marshes, Revidge, Royal Cottage, Silverdale Colliery, Swallow Moss, Warslow and Wetley Moor. The latest reported singing was at Doxey Marshes on July 18th. There was no obvious spring passage; birds seemed to appear at sites throughout April in ones and twos. The return passage was also not really discernable. Singles were noted at Bagnall CP on August 3rd and Swallow Moss on 22nd while the last recorded sighting was at Chasewater on September 5th. W Mid Reeling birds were reported from Sandwell Valley (up to four birds between April 12th and 18th with another heard on May 9th and July 3rd – the latter date indicating possible breeding?), Smestow Valley (two on April 22nd followed by singles on 23rd, 24th and 1st and 3rd May), Sheepwash UP (one on April 23rd), Bartley Reservoir on April 26th, Blythe Valley Country Park on May 28th and 29th, Bartley Reservoir on July 20th.

Saviʼs Warbler Locustella luscinioides Rare vagrant (3/10). Warks A singing male was found at Brandon on May 21st KIL, but it unfortunately did not stay. This was the eighth county record, of which exactly half have come from Brandon, the last being in 1995.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Fairly common to common, though declining summer resident. Average dates: April 15th (68) to September 29th (62). The first record came from Tittesworth Res. on the early date of April 9th, to be closely followed by one at Upton Warren on the 10th and Draycote on the 12th. The last birds were recorded on September 18th at Fenny Compton and Marsh Lane NR and at Doxey on the 19th. Warks One or two pairs were reported from many sites, with higher totals at: Alvecote (eight), Brandon (13, cf. seven in 2003, ten in 2002), Charlecote (six along River Avon), the Dosthill/Kingsbury area (18), Fenny Compton (three, cf. four in 2003, seven in 2002), Salford Priors GP (four) and Wormleighton Res. (three, cf. four in 2003, seven in 2002). An improvement was noted in the northern and central districts, but fewer were seen in the south-east. In the latter region none were found at DMC Kineton for the first time, where habitat change has been responsible for the gradual loss of this species (cf. 19-24 here annually during 1988-91). On return passage there were at least ten at Wormleighton Res. from August 10th-13th, and the last was recorded on September 18th at Fenny Compton, where it hit a kitchen window and died during a heavy downpour. Worcs Seven breeding pairs were recorded at Lower Moor on June 27th and maximum site counts of singing male during the breeding season were of five at Abberton, two at Ashmoor Common, two at Church Lench Pools, 10 at Gwen Finch Wetland, 12 at Lower Moor, two at Oakley Pool, 20 at Strensham Lagoons, eight at Upton Warren and one at Westwood Pool. During the autumn singles were reported at Martley on August 17th, Bishampton Vale Pool on September 14th and Upton Warren on 17th. Staffs The first bird was observed on April 9th at Tittesworth and the species was subsequently recorded rather thinly across the county at some 22 sites. Breeding was confirmed for Belvide, where 14 pairs bred, and Westport Lake, where one or two pairs

151 bred at the Sewage Works. Spring migration numbers were initially very low, with just one or two birds being seen, but there was a sudden peak at the end of April when eight were seen at Belvide on the 24th and 15 on the 25th, 51 at Doxey on the 25th and 17 on the 29th, and 12 at Drayton Bassett on the 26th. By far the greatest summer numbers were recorded for Doxey Marshes, with 116 pairs, the only double figures coming from Belvide, with up to 24 in May and 28 in June, and Westport Lake with 20 in May. Small numbers may have bred at River Sow Baswich, Blithfield, Pool Dam and Tittesworth. It is difficult to spot the start of the return migration because, although there were 113 birds reported at Doxey Marshes on July 18th, all other reports were for single-figure numbers until September 19th when the final three birds were seen at Doxey. Away from Doxey Marshes the only autumn sightings were single birds at Belvide, Burston, Chasewater, Calwich Park and Tittesworth. W Mid Breeding activity (including singing birds) were reported from Blythe Valley Country Park (up to four males), Goscote Valley, Marsh Lane NR (four or five pairs), Pelsall North Common and Sandwell Valley (approximately 10 males in song). Additional birds on spring passage noted singing for a day or two included one in Smestow Valley on May 1st with two on 3rd, and one Lutley Wedge at Foxcote Pond on May 2nd. In autumn, up to 15 birds were counted at Marsh Lane NR on August 15th and singles were in Smestow Valley on September 6th and 12th.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Average dates: April 23rd (64) to September 28th (58). The first report came from Doxey on the early date of April 16th while the last was seen on the late date of October 8th at Gwen Finch Wetland and Kinsham Lake. Warks A total of 22 territories was logged along the River Leam between Hunningham and Offchurch, with 15 more along 1 km of the Grand Union Canal and a nearby pool, also at Offchurch. Other counts of singing males included nine at Alvecote, 18 at Lower Radbourn, 25 at Napton Res., seven at Salford Priors GP, five at Ufton Hill and 12 at Wormleighton Res. At Brandon, the East Marsh study ditch colony held 19 pairs which pro duced 63 young. Also reported from many more sites during the breeding season, including two pairs in a new reed bed at Tysoe STW; a new area for them. An expanding species. Worcs A total of 59 territories were held along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Reed Warbler, Westport, Dave Kelsall Wharf, an increase of 10 pairs from 2003 and an estimated 20 pairs bred at both Gwen Finch Wetland and Kinsham Lake, the latter also held 16 singing males on May 7th. Counts of singing males at other breeding localities included five at Church Lench Pools, four at Oakley Pool, five at Strensham

152 Lagoons, 10 at Thorngrove and 11 at Upton Warren. One singing male was at Spetchley Pool on April 19th, two at Tibberton on 25th, two at Abberton on June 5th and three at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 25th. One was heard in song at Grimley Old Workings on September 13th and 14th, Westwood Pool held two on 17th and the final records for the year came from Gwen Finch Wetland and Kinsham Lake, with singles noted on October 8th. Staffs Rather thinly scattered, this bird was recorded at only 15 sites. First seen on April 16th at Doxey Marshes, it was only reported breeding at Baswich, where a pair were seen feeding young in June and again in August, although 10 territories were noted at Burley Pools Apedale CP, 10 at Belvide, 20 at Doxey Marshes and three at Westport Lake. Reported spring migration numbers were low, with maxima of five on April 18th at Astonefields, six on the 26th at Belvide and six at Apedale on the 30th. Generally, breeding season numbers were low. Apart from the territories mentioned above singing was also observed at Branston Water Park, Catholme, Copmere and Tixall Broad. Return was a trickle throughout August, with a maximum of four seen at Baswich on the 10th, with other sightings at Belvide, Branston Water Park, Doxey and Westport Lake, the final record being a single bird at Belvide on September 18th. W Mid Breeding season records came from Blythe Valley Country Park (three in song in late May with six noted in June), Clayhanger, Goscote Valley, Marsh Lane NR (in excess of 10 singing males cf. two in 2003), Sheepwash UP (three pairs) and Sandwell Valley (five singing birds).One was noted singing in Smestow Valley on May 3rd.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Warks Another good season. A total of 46 singing at DMC Kineton in May (cf. 43 in 2003) was the second highest count recorded there since 1987. Other territory counts included: 11 at Brandon, six at Earlswood Lakes, eight at Farnborough Park, 11 at Itchington Holt (a recovery from a low point of five in 2003), four at Morton Bagot (in 120 ha of farmland), and ten at Ufton Hill. During the late winter period, three were seen in Leamington Spa, two each in Kineton and Nuneaton, and singles at Fenny Compton and Leek Wootton, all in gardens. The first spring migrants were recorded at Brandon on March 22nd, Priors Hardwick on 30th and both Draycote and Shustoke on 31st. A good autumn passage probably reflected a good breeding season, and there were counts of up to ten at a number of sites. Maxima included 16 at Brandon on September 5th, 25 on the west side of Brailes Hill on 9th and 16 at Napton Hill on 13th. Migrants continued to pass throughout October, with late birds on the Fenny Compton Hills on November 1st and at Lighthorne Quarry (two) on 4th. Wintering birds began to arrive soon after, with singles (mainly males) reported during November-December from: Alcester, Arley, Barford, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Ladywalk, Moreton Morrell and Windmill Hill NR (Nuneaton). Worcs Few breeding season records received, but undoubtedly a common breeder across the county. Seventeen pairs were recorded along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Wharf, seven pairs held territories at Tibberton, a pair bred at Broadway Gravel Pit and reported as a common breeder both along the Dowles Brook and Malvern Hills. Singing males also noted at Westwood Pool on March 22nd, two at Diglis Basin on April 6th, two at Chase End Hill on 12th, three at Abberton on 25th and two at Strensham Lagoons on June 6th. As in previous years, large numbers were observed during both winter periods. First winter period sightings were of two at Lower Moor throughout January and February, three individuals seen in gardens at Berkeley, Worcester between January 1st-March 3rd,

153 one at Mount Pleasant on January 2nd and three in a garden at Pershore between 2nd-30th. Singles were at Grimley Old Workings, Westwood Pool and in a Malvern Link garden on January 4th and the latter site continued to attract singles or pairs until March 26th. Singles other than stated also reported from The Arboretum, Worcester on January 8th, St. Johns on 28th, Warndon (two) on February 11th, Redditch Train Station on 12th and Broadway on 24th. A female was in a Kempsey garden on March 1st, then a male was seen from 2nd- 12th, one was at Pinvin on 3rd and one at Catshill on 6th. Autumn records comprised three at Hollybed Common on September 3rd and 9th and one in Happy Valley on 29th. During the second winter period a male was in a Malvern Link garden on October 31st, followed by a female on November 6th, Lower Moor held four birds in November and three in December, singles were at Castlemorton Common and Huntsbridge on November 6th, two at Droitwich on 7th and one at Stoke Bliss on 11th. Upton Warren held a pair on November 13th, four on 14th and two on 21st, the sewage works at Upton-upon-Severn attracted two or three birds between 27th-December 31st and Malvern Wells held three on November 29th, one on December 2nd, two on 4th and singles from 5th-12th. Singles also observed at Berkeley on December 9th, 21st, 26th and 27th, at Welland on 7th and 26th, Hanley Swan on 13th and West Malvern on 20th. Two interesting records of ringed birds came from the Malvern area. A female retrapped in a Malvern Wells garden on January 16th, had been ringed at the same locality in January 2002 and a male retrapped in a Malvern Link on December 16th, had also been ringed at the same site in January 2002 and was also present in December 2003. Staffs Although common in small numbers throughout the county, with reports from over 70 sites, Belvide, Doxey Marshes and Westport held good numbers throughout the breeding season, with the eight or nine, nine and seven pairs respectively breeding, and there were also reports of maxima of 12 in the Churnet Valley in May and 20 at Tittesworth in June. Juveniles were seen at Acton Trussell, Brookleys Lake and Hanchurch Woods, Swynnerton Old Park. This is a bird which now remains throughout the year in the county with January records in Stafford and Stoke, February records in Overley, Stafford, Stoke and Westlands and March in the same sites plus Westport Lake. Migrant birds started to appear in early April, with a sighting of two birds at Belvide on the 2nd, peaking with eight at Belvide on the 17th, six at Branston Water Park on the 20th and five at Baswich on the 24th. Autumn migration is difficult to pinpoint as there were, again, over-wintering birds, but the peak would seem to have been late August/early September with six birds at Westport Lake on August 29th and five at Black Bank on September 2nd. October records came from the River Sow at Baswich, Doxey Marshes, Madeley STW and West End (Stoke). November reports came from Belvide, Madeley STW and West End and December from West End. W Mid Breeding season records were received from Bartley, Bills Wood in Shirley (three), Blythe Valley Country Park (four in late May), Clayhanger Marsh, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Lutley Wedge (at least three males), Marsh Lane NR (only two but believed to be an underestimate), Mons Hill CBC plot (nine territories), Olton Mere, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (22 in song on May 1st cf. 12 in 2003), off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield, Turls Hill and Warley Woods. At least 20 birds were in the Hill Top area of Sandwell Valley on August 31st. First winter period records were received from two locations in Harborne, Lutley Wedge (up to two almost daily in a garden between January and March) and Smestow Valley (in January and February). Second winter period records came from Dorridge (pair in garden), Dingles (along Cole Valley two in November and December) and Lutley Wedge (Haswell Road).

154 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Fairly common to common summer resident. Average dates: April 21st (67) to September 14th (66). The first bird was seen at Jackson’s Coppice on the early date of April 14th with records coming from all counties by the 26th. The last bird was seen at Ilmington Down on September 16th. Warks Counts of three or more singing males came from: Brandon (at least 15), Charlecote GP (three), DMC Kineton (12), the Dosthill/Kingsbury area (17), Draycote (five), Eathorpe Marsh (three), Fenny Compton (five along the Oxford Canal), Ladywalk (seven), Offchurch (three along the Grand Union Canal), Pillerton Hersey (four in Shear Hog Plantation), Ufton Hill (four) and Wormleighton Res. (seven). Numbers at sites which had repeat counts were similar to or slightly above the 2003 figures. An exception was Ladywalk where numbers were reported to be down. Only very small numbers are usually noticed on return passage, so a count of 23 at Brandon on July 27th was exceptional. Worcs Successfully breeding pairs reported from Lower Moor (two), Malvern Hills, Nafford Lock and Upton Warren. Singing males reported from Abberton, Happy Valley and Westwood Pool on April 25th, Wassell Grove on 27th, Lower Moor on 29th and two at Upton Warren and one at Westwood Pool on May 1st. One was singing at Shadybank Common and two at Trimpley Reservoir on May 2nd, two along the Dowles Brook on 6th, followed by three on 11th, five along Honey Brook Valley on 14th, four at Lower Moor on 17th, two at Cropthorne on 22nd and one at Castlemorton Common on 23rd. Two singing males were observed at Nafford Lock on May 24th and June 13th, then an adult and three juveniles were found on 26th, two males were at Birchen Coppice on 5th, one on Bredon Hill on 6th, two at Hipton Hill on 7th and one at The Gullet and two at Wilden Marsh on 8th. A single bird was noted at Nafford Lock on July 1st and 5th, Upton Warren held singles on 25th and August 26th, one was at Lower Moor on July 31st and one at Abbey Road Gardens, Malvern on August 12th. Staffs The first record for this species was a single bird at Jackson’s Coppice on April 14th then none until 24th when singles arrived at Belvide and Westport. Breeding was reported from Belvide, where four pairs bred, Doxey and Park Banks, each with one pair, and Westport Lake with two pairs. In addition singing males were noted at Baswich (two pairs), Branston Water Park, Doley, Hollinsclough, Little Stoke, Lower Cowley, Newtown, Roach End, Hanchurch Woods (six territories), Upper Hulme and Waterfall (four). Spring passage was not really noticeable, the only figure greater than one being five birds at Belvide on April 25th. During the summer the greatest numbers were noted at Branston Gravel Pits, with 10 birds, Belvide and Westport Lake with eight and Hanchurch Woods with six. Autumn passage birds were seen at Blithfield, maximum two birds, Doxey and Little Stoke, each with one bird and the final sightings at Croxall on September 4th and Tittesworth on 12th. W Mid Singing/breeding birds were reported from Blythe Valley Country Park (two present in late May), Dunstall Park (only noted on a single May date), Ladywood (Gilby Road on one date – on passage?), Marsh Lane NR (believed to be three pairs but up to four birds in song involving passage birds), Meriden, Millison’s Wood (three), Sandwell Valley (up to six in song), Sheepwash UP (one noted on April 24th) and Smestow Valley (only noted on a single May date – a former breeding species here). Reported on autumn passage from Smestow Valley on August 23rd and September 9th.

155 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Two winter records. Average dates: April 21st (68) to September 23rd (68). An early record from Sandwell on April 8th was followed on the 17th by birds at Little Stoke and Branston WP. The last record came from Priors Hardwick on October 1st. Warks Good numbers were again recorded across the south of the county, but with fewer territories reported from DMC Kineton (ten, cf. 13 in 2003, 17 in 2002) and Fenny Compton (eight, cf. 12 in 2003, 13 in 2002), indicating that the population may have peaked. Concentrations of up to four pairs were noted widely, with higher counts of eight between Chelmscote and Whatcote, six at both Brailes and Tysoe, six between Hunningham and Snowford, five at both Offchurch and Priors Hardwick, and seven in the two Pillertons. Conversely the highest concentration reported in the north was just three pairs at Alvecote. The best counts on autumn passage were 35 on the west side of Brailes Hill on September 9th and a peak of 15 at Wormleighton Res. on 10th. Worcs 48 singing males were reported from 25 localities in the county, the majority of sites holding just one or two males. Five pairs were noted along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Wharf, 11 pairs held territories at Tibberton, six to seven pairs on Hollybed/Castlemorton Commons, a pair bred successfully at Westwood Pool, being the first for 11 years and four singing males were noted at Abberton on May 3rd. During the autumn Hollybed Common held four on August 31st and three on September 9th and 7th, one was at Ashmoor Common on 4th, three at Grimley New Workings on 12th and one at Cofton Richards Farm on 16th. Staffs The first sightings of this species were on April 17th with single birds at Branston Water Park and Little Stoke. Breeding was confirmed at Bateswood, which was the first report of breeding there since 1997, Belvide, Doley Common and Meece Brook with singing males at Armitage, Black Bank, Branston Water Park, Church Eaton, Colwich, Downs Bank, Doxey Marshes, Gnosall, Ingestre, Park Hall, Sandyford, Stone, Warslow, Waterfall and Weston Jones. There were no obvious peaks in spring migration, most sightings being of single birds, although there were three at Belvide on April 25th and two at Branston Water Park on the 26th. Although widely spread throughout the county summer numbers were low with a maximum of four reported for Belvide in July. Autumn migration was quiet with the majority of records coming from Blithfield although the last report was for a single bird at Branston Water Park on September 29th. W Mid Singing birds/breeding season records came from Blythe Valley Country Park, Bowmans Harbour, Clayhanger Marsh, Cotwall End Valley, Dunstall Park, Hill Hook, Lutley Wedge (possibly involving just passage birds), Marsh Lane NR, Middle Bickenhill, Ravenshaw, Sandwell Valley (up to six), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Temple Balsall and Woodgate Valley (three). An adult was feeding a juvenile in the car park of the multiplex cinema of Tyburn Road on August 4th – locally bred? Also reported on autumn passage from Bartley.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common to abundant summer resident. Average dates: April 14th (70) to September 28th (70). The first record came from Brandon on April 12th and the last from Bromstead Common on September 26th. Warks This ubiquitous species is now generally abundant, with numbers probably being at their highest level since 1968, the year before the great crash. The total of 81 logged at

156 DMC Kineton was on par with the previous best year in 2000. Other territory counts included 16 at Brandon, 20 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area, and ten on 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot. The best counts on return passage were of at least ten at Whittleford Park on July 28th, 14 at Wormleighton Res. on August 22nd and 13 at Brailes Hill on September 9th. Worcs During the breeding season 16 pairs were counted along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Wharf, 25 territories were held at Tibberton and counts of singing males included six at Abberton, six at Castlemorton Common, 10+ on Hollybed Common, eight between Hollybush and Chase End Hill, 10 at Strensham Lagoons and 10 at Throckmorton. The first spring records came on April 13th, with one at British Camp. The only autumn counts came from the Malvern Commons, with Castlemorton holding 10 on August 1st and Hollybed producing counts of 20+ on 6th, 15th and 31st, 10 on September 3rd and 5th and 15 on 7th. Staffs First recorded from Coldmeece Pools, with a single bird on April 15th, this species was widespread in the county, being reported from 57 sites. Breeding was confirmed at Crumpwood, Doley (two pairs), Doxey (five pairs), Hanchurch, Kettlebrook (at least three pairs), Norton Bridge (three-four pairs) and Westport Lake (four-five pairs). Spring migration took place throughout the latter half of April with two small peaks; eight birds at Kettlebrook on the 22nd and 12 at Belvide on the 24th. During the breeding season the greatest numbers were observed at Baddeley Green, with eight in May, Belvide, with 12 in May, 20 in June and 18 in July; the National Memorial Arboretum with eight in May and Westport Lake with 14 in May. The nicest record for a singing male was of a bird by the south stand of Britannia Football Stadium “singing in a bush despite being surrounded by thousands of fans” SB. There were no obvious concentrations on autumn migration, the maxima being just six at Doxey on August 17th and seven at Black Bank on September 2nd. The last bird was seen at Bromstead Common on September 26th. W Mid Breeding season records were received from Aldridge (along Hobs Hole Lane), Aston, Bartley Reservoir (at least five with 14 birds counted in early July), ‘Battery Park’ (in Selly Oak), Birmingham city centre (singing birds noted on soon to be developed land), Blythe Valley Country Park (six in May), Clayhanger Marsh, Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area (in excess of 20 pairs), Highgate, Lutley Wedge (at least 8 territories), Marsh Lane NR (four down on the seven recorded in 2003), Moor Green (in Birmingham B13), Minworth, Sandwell Valley (at least 18 singing birds), Sheepwash UP (six in song in late April), off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (two or three pairs), Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, Temple Balsall and Woodgate Valley. Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Very rare winter visitor (6/10). Staffs A bird was discovered on Cannock Chase on April 4th AGG, AG. What was probably the same bird was seen again on November 3rd IB and remained until the year end; evidence of range expansion as our winters get milder. The last record in the county was one at Rugeley on 22nd March 1915. See article on page 204. Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Very rare vagrant (5/10). Staffs One was present in the west shore plantation at Chasewater from February 14th to 21st PJe et al. “A small Phylloscopus warbler with whitish underparts and a wing bar. It called once, a piping, slightly disyllabic, dzee-ip.” The third county record and the third in four years.

157 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent, though declining, summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the region. Average dates: April 22nd (68)to August 26th (55). First reported from Seven Springs, Marsh Lane NR and Dowles Brook on April 24th and the last at Alvecote on August 23rd. Warks A singing male was at Avon Dassett on April 25th MJL, for the second spring in succession at this site. Another was reported from Kenilworth in late April SCHS. Singles on return passage were found at Birchmoor on August 22nd RLS and Alvecote on 23rd AA. Worcs The first bird returned to Dowles Brook on April 24th and a maximum of 10 singing males were heard on May 6th. The only other record came from the Malvern Hills at The Gullet, with a singing male present from May 7th-June 18th. Staffs First recorded on April 24th when a single bird was seen at Seven Springs. The species was also seen on the Chase at Abrahams Valley, Brocton Wood Warbler, Seven Springs, Steve Cole Coppice, Oldacre Valley, Sherbrook Valley and the Stepping Stones. The peak number, six on May 2nd, was recorded for Seven Springs where the only breeding was noted. Away from the Chase there was a single bird at Bearda on May 4th, eight in the Churnet Valley on the 22nd and one each in Dimmingsdale on June 18th, Dydon Wood on June 6th, Swynnerton Old Park on May 15th and Westport Lake on July 19th. The last records for the year were for three birds singing at Brocton Coppice on August 28th. W Mid One sang briefly at Marsh Lane NR on April 24th and one was in Swan Pool car park, Sandwell Valley on May 6th.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Increases were reported at several sites during the breeding season, including at DMC Kineton, where the count of 48 was easily the highest ever (the next best was 39 way back in 1992). Other territory counts included: 15 at Brandon (cf. nine in 2003), eight at Earlswood Lakes, only five at Farnborough Park (cf. seven in 2003), ten along the Oxford Canal in Fenny Compton, and four in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot. Good numbers of wintering birds were around during January and February, with four at Draycote, two at Milcote STW, and singles at Alvecote, Brandon, Coton, Griff, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lighthorne Quarry and Newbold Comyn. Spring passage began rather later than in recent years, with the first record of five at Kingsbury on March 13th and the main influx commencing from 17th. 15 were counted at Shustoke on April 9th. On return passage, the species was again abundant across the southern hills. Peak counts included 45 at Napton

158 Hill on August 14th, 17 at Lighthorne Quarry on 28th, at least 80 on the west side of Brailes Hill on September 9th, 30 at Wormleighton Res. on 10th, 40 again at Napton Hill on 13th, 22 at Charlecote GP on 15th and 20 at Earlswood Lakes on 17th. Passage continued throughout October with the last migrant on the Fenny Compton Hills on November 1st. Wintering birds were noted during the November-December period at: Brandon (two), Butlers Marston STW, Charlecote GP, Coldcomfort Wood, Coleshill STW, Coton, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Napton Res. and Windmill Hill NR (Nuneaton). Worcs Up to 24 breeding pairs were noted along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Wharf, 21 pairs nested at Tibberton and reported as a common breeding species along the Dowles Brook, Malvern Hills and Old Hills, all the last three localities showing a continued increase of singing males, compared to previous years. Singing males also reported from Abberton (18), Castlemorton Common (seven), Happy Valley (two), Lower Moor (eight), Nunnery Wood (two), Strensham Lagoons (three), Throckmorton (four), Upton Warren (12) and Westwood Pool (two). During the first winter period, the sewage works at Lower Moor held maximum counts of nine in January and six in February, Kempsey sewage works held five in January, four in February and two in early March and one was seen at Upton-upon-Severn sewage works on February 23rd. Singles were also noted at Redditch on January 4th, Huddington on February 9th and Kempsey Village on 23rd. Autumn passage birds reported from Broadway Gravel Pit, with six present on August 8th, Bishampton Vale Pool held seven on September 14th and Bredon Hill held 20 on 16th, six on 19th and five on October 1st. On the Malvern Hills, seven were counted around Chat Valley and Table Hill on September 25th, 17 were in the Happy Valley on 28th and 29th, then singles here from October 11th-13th. One was at Kempsey Lower Ham on September 30th. Second winter period sightings again came from the usual three sewage works, with Lower Moor holding three in late October, two in November and three in December, Kempsey held a maximum of four in December and at Upton-upon-Severn, several were present on November 27th and numbers raised from three in early December to nine by the years end. Upton Warren also attracted small numbers during this winter period, with one present on October 15th, two on November 6th, singles on 12th and 21st, four on 26th and two on December 9th. Grimley New Workings held singles on October 30th and December 12th, one was at Grimley Brick Pit on November 7th, one in Happy Valley on 13th, one at Throckmorton Tip on 21st and two at Clifton Pits on December 19th. Staffs This very common warbler was reported from nearly 90 sites throughout the county. Breeding was only confirmed at Belvide, where 10 pairs bred, Tittesworth, and Westport Lake where there were at least two pairs. This species now over-winters and there were January records from Alrewas, Chasewater, Clay Mills STW, Drayton Bassett Pits and Madeley Sewage Works and February records for Brancote Sewage Farm, Clay Mills STW, Dosthill, Madeley STW and Wolseley Bridge. Migration of non-residents seems to have started in mid-March with seven birds at Belvide on the 17th, nine on the 18th and 20th, 10 on the 24th and 13 on the 25th and 29th. Westport Lake had 12 birds on the 23rd with smaller numbers at Cannock Chase, Doxey Marshes, Gnosall canal and Pool Hall. During the breeding season peak numbers were recorded at Belvide, with a maximum of 20 in June. There were reasonable numbers at Cannock Chase and Doxey Marshes too. Peak return migration took place in September with 23 birds at Doxey Marshes on the 3rd, 30 at Belvide on the 10th, 10 at Madeley STW on the 17th, 30 on the 18th and 18 on the 21st, 24 at Tittesworth on 24th and eight at Branston Water Park on the 29th. The species remained into the winter with October records from Apedale, Branston Water Park, Blithfield, Chasewater, Doxey Marshes, Madeley STW and Tittesworth; November records

159 from Aqualate, Belvide, Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Doxey Marshes, Drayton Bassett Pits, and Madeley Sewage Works and December records from Clay Mills STW, Doxey Marshes, Drayton Bassett Pits and Little Stoke. W Mid Singing birds were reported from Aston, Bartley, Bills Wood in Shirley (two), Clayhanger Marsh, Marsh Lane NR (three on territory), Marston Green, Mons Hill CBC plot (eight territories), Olton Mere, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (12 in song on April 25th), Selly Oak (from an area of re-generating birch scrub), Sheepwash UP (one or two pairs), Smestow Valley (20 pairs/singing males were counted on May 1st – although 31 were in song on March 31st some of these no doubt involved passage birds), off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (three or four pairs), Sutton Park, Warley Woods and Whites Wood (Turls Hill). One wintered off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield and another was noted on January 17th in Smestow Valley. Noted in January, November and December at Sheepwash UP, a favoured wintering location,

Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita abietinus Worcs One reported at Lower Moor sewage works on February 27th SMW.

Eastern-type Chiffchaff Worcs Two birds were present at Upton- upon-Severn sewage works, one from November 27th and the second from December 26th, both remaining to the year’s end SMW et al. The second bird was trapped and ringed on December 31st and close examination of the birds plumage revealed yellow to be restricted to the under wing coverts, axillaries and the bend of the wing, a lack of olive/green hue to the mantle, nape and crown and all dark bill and legs. All these features seemed to fit the criteria for Siberian Chiffchaff (tristis) but, an article in British Birds (Brit Birds 98:395-452), suggested that the plumage was too grey on the upper parts and the bill too robust for this bird to be a classic tristis. A third bird which looked very similar to the Upton-upon- Severn individuals was at Kempsey sewage Eastern-type Chiffchaff, works from December 27th-31st AW et al. Upton Warren, Andy Warr

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One winter record. Average dates: March 27th (58) to October 7th (70). An early bird was seen at Ladywalk on March 15th and, apart from a wintering bird at Upton-on-Severn STW from November 27th to December 31st, the last was seen at Doxey on October 17th. Warks The modest rise in the breeding population first noted in 2003 in the south-east has continued, with notable increases also noted along the Leam Valley and as far north as the Coventry district. There was no change from further north however, and numbers

160 remain at a low level in the Tame Valley. Notable territory counts included 19 at Brandon (cf. 14 in 2003), 65 at DMC Kineton (a continuing increase from the nadir of 46 in 2002), ten at Earlswood Lakes, and 20 in 75 ha of young forestry at Priors Marston (not more than seven here in the last few years). On spring passage there were 30 at Draycote on April 9th. On return passage, 15 appeared after heavy rain at Wormleighton Res. on August 10th, 25 were at Napton Hill on 14th, while “a big fall” was reported from the Seeswood Pool area on 18th. Worcs Reported as still reasonably common along the Dowles Brook, at Castlemorton Common, four singing males were noted on April 17th, eight on 25th and 10+ on May 23rd. Other multiple counts of singing males were of three at Happy Valley on April 4th, four at Upton Warren on 9th, seven at Throckmorton on 25th and five at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 30th. Single males also reported from many localities, across the county. The first summer migrant was observed at Westwood Pool on March 27th and the only autumn birds reported at Sugarloaf Hill, with two present on September 25th and October 3rd. One was discovered with wintering Chiffchaffs at Upton-upon-Severn sewage works on November 27th SMW et al and was still present at the year’s end. Staffs This species is rather more thinly spread in the county than the related Chiffchaff with reports from only 37 sites. The first record of the year was for Baggeridge where there was a single bird on April 2nd. Breeding was confirmed at Bateswood CP (five pairs cf. eight in 2003), Belvide (six pairs), Doley Common and Westport Lake (one or two pairs). Migration continued through April, double figures being reported from Tittesworth, with 15 birds on the 10th and 40 on the 25th, Belvide with 10 on the 17th, Doxey Marshes with 15 on the 17th and Swallow Moss with 24 on the 25th. Breeding season figures were generally low with double figures only from Belvide, which had 12 birds in June and Doxey with 11 birds in July. Return migration seems mostly to have taken place in August with numbers being very small, but with sightings lingering till October. Significant numbers were six at Doxey on August 17th and five on the 18th and 22nd and five at Blithfield on 22nd and four on 31st. The maximum numbers for September were four at Doxey on the 2nd. The final records were for single birds at Tittesworth on October 3rd and Doxey on 17th. W Mid Singing birds in the breeding season were reported from Bartley, Clayhanger Marsh, Dorridge STW, Lutley Wedge (five), Marsh Lane NR (between two and four pairs), Mons Hill, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (reported to be showing a slight decline), Smestow Valley (15 cf. seven in 2003), off Steelpark Way in Wednesfield (three or four pairs) and Sutton Park.

Willow Warbler X Chiffchaff Warks Another puzzling bird in this category was found in Old Dyke Gorse, Idlicote on July 1st JJB, which had a mixed song containing characteristics of both species.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Very common resident and winter visitor. Warks Eight territories were located in deciduous woodland at Debdale Wood, Birdingbury. Outside the breeding season, reports of larger parties included: 25 in Oakley Wood on March 8th, 21 at Napton Hill on September 29th, 30 at Brailes Hill on October 11th and 25 by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 28th. An unusual record was of a dead bird retrieved from a car radiator after a drive between Rowington and Ullenhall on January 6th.

161 Worcs Thirteen territories were held at Tibberton, compared to 10 in 2003 and reported as a very common during the breeding season at Callow Hill in the Wyre Forest and common along the Malvern Hills. The only counts outside the breeding season came during the autumn and second winter period, with Happy Valley holding 20 on September 28th and 29 on November 3rd, 10 were at Huntsbridge on 6th, 18 at Upton-upon-Severn sewage works on 27th and 12 at Shadybank Common on December 5th. Staffs A pair which probably bred in the plantation at Belvide was a new breeding record for the site. Also recorded in the Churnet Valley (six), Ellastone and Park Banks Wood during May and June. Reported from 25 other sites with higher counts consisting of five at Chasewater and Hints and 10 at Tittesworth in January, six at Chasewater in February, six at Wolseley and five at the Rifle Range, Cannock Chase in March, six at Blithfield in September, 11 at Doxey in October, 10 at Branston WP in November and six at Brocton Coppice in December. W Mid Singing birds were noted at Bills Wood in Shirley, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR area, Mons Hill CBC plot (three territories), Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (thought to be five pairs), and Whites Wood (Turls Hill). Birds were also noted in April and July at Marsh Lane NR but were not thought to have bred on site. Outside of the breeding season birds were reported from Dorridge (in a garden), Marsh Lane NR (peak of six in October) and Sheepwash UP.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. Warks Single males were seen at Farnborough Park on February 18th JJB, and at Alvecote from March 22nd-28th AA et al. Worcs For the second year in succession, a singing male was observed on the Clent Hills in the same locality on April 9th BW. Reported during both winter periods, with a male at Trimpley Reservoir from January 11th-25th and a male was trapped and ringed in a Malvern Wells garden on November 25th PH. Two birds, including the ringed individual were at Malvern Wells on 29th SMW et al and both were noted on December 3rd, then one on 4th and 5th. Staffs A good year for this attractive sprite. Two were seen at the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s HQ at Wolseley Bridge from January 1st until March 7th having been resident there since November 2003, with one remaining until 15th RCB, GJM et. al. A male was found at Madeley STW on January 27th NDP and remained until February 12th. W Mid One, believed to be a male, was located at Ray Hall STW in Sandwell Valley on December 26th MY with two birds noted here on 28th MY. An adult male was in a central West Bromwich garden (Mottram Close) on MY.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident. Average dates: May 2nd (68) to September 28th (68). First birds were seen on May 3rd at Abberton, Doxey and Seven Springs while the last was at Belvide on September 22nd. Warks No real change in numbers over 2003; although more were found occupying woodland territories in the south, in which habitat it has been largely absent in very recent years. Breeding pairs were located at: Arlescote (three), Avon Dassett, Brailes (three), Burton Dassett, Butlers Marston, Chadshunt, Chapel Ascote, Compton Wynyates (three), Eathorpe, Edge Hill Woods (several), Farnborough (four), Fenny Compton (four),

162 Hunningham (three), Idlicote (three), Itchington Holt, Kingswood, Moreton Morrell (two), Morton Bagot, Offchurch, Oxhill (two), Packwood, Pillerton Hersey (five), Radway, Ratley (three), Southam, Stoneton, Traitor’s Ford, Tysoe (five), Warmington (four), Willoughby, Winderton and Wormleighton (two). The largest parties noted on return passage were of 13 at Napton Hill on August 14th and nine at Seeswood Pool on 23rd. Worcs Thirty-six pairs were located in the southern villages around Bredon Hill, compared to 30 in 2003 and 40 in 2002. A single pair was also recorded breeding on Bredon Hill itself. A pair fledged four young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum, a pair bred successfully at Upton Warren Village, a brood was predated by a cat at Abberton, a family party was observed at Broughton Green and a pair was observed carrying food to a nest at Broadway Gravel Pits, but the nest was believed to have failed. A pair bred at Hanley Swan, but the nest was predated and on September 7th a pair was observed feeding two young in a garden at West Malvern. The first sighting of the year came from Abberton on May 3rd and the next at Hanley Swan on 7th and hereafter pairs or singing males were reported during the breeding season from Abberley, Arley Wood, Bewdley, Birlingham, Callow Hill, Chaddesley Corbett, Grimley New Workings, Malvern Winter Gardens, Midsummer Hill, Perdiswell School, Pershore Abbey, Pirton Pool, Ravenshill Wood, Shenstone, Sling Pool, Stoke Bliss, The Knapp (two singing), Upton Warren Village and Reserve, Wassell Grove and Westwood pool. During the late summer and autumn two were at Upton Warren on August 19th, one at Grimley New Workings on 28th, three at Wood Norton on 29th, four at Cofton Court on September 1st, one on Bredon Hill on 2nd, three at Holt Church on 3rd, one at Nafford Lock from 14th-19th and one at Happy Valley on 19th. Staffs First returning birds were seen on May 3rd with two at Seven Springs and one at Doxey Marshes. There were first reports of breeding by early June with a good spread of records; Acton, Back o’ th’ Brook, Baswich, Belvide, Black Brook, Bradnop, Crumpwood, Denstone, Dunston Heath, Gradbach, Hen Cloud, Fisherwick, Ingestre, Moreton, Revidge, Rocester, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth, Upper Hulme and Whitmore all confirming breeding. The most successful site was Whitmore with five pairs whilst Back o’ th’ Brook was quite late, newly-fledged individuals being reported on August 28th. There were no obvious spring migration groupings but the autumn had two small flocks, 10 at Belvide on August 21st and eight at Gradbach on the 26th, other records being sporadic small numbers. The final bird was seen at Belvide on September 22nd. W Mid One was in Dunstall Park on May 9th – the first local spring record since 1996. Two were noted at Sheepwash Up on May 13th (apparently in song). One was at Marsh Lane NR on May 25th. In autumn, noted at Sheepwash UP (unspecified date in August), two were in Smestow Valley on August 17th, with one on 21st, 26th and 28th, September 4th, 11th (three), 12th (four), and 28th. At Marsh Lane NR, single birds, unless otherwise stated, were noted on August 18th, 19th, 28th, 30th, 31st, September 1st (two), 13th and 19th.One was in Goscote Valley on September 1st, one at Foxcote Pond in Lutley Wedge on September 12th

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva Very rare vagrant (0/10). Warks A very vocal first-winter bird was found at Birchmoor on September 9th RLS. First seen at 06.10hrs along a scrubby fence line it was still present at 06.50hrs when the observer left, but unfortunately it could not subsequently be relocated. It coincided with a small influx on the Yorkshire coast on September 4th. This was only the second record for the county and region, following a bird at Kingsbury in May 1992.

163 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Frequent and increasing summer resident and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Staffs and Worcs. Average dates: April 20th (58) to September 9th (39). First seen at Seven Springs on April 20th and the last at Brandon on September 14th. Warks No spring records, but a good return passage with six recorded. There were singles at Harbury Spoilbank on July 29th DHu, Alvecote on August 12th RLS, Brandon on 15th BMCG, Seeswood Pool on 18th-19th DHu et al, Brailes Hill on September 9th JJB, and lastly at Brandon again on 14th JMR. Worcs Ten out of 11 pairs bred successfully on the southern Malvern Hills, fledging 67 young, encouraging results after last years poor breeding season, when 14 nests fledge just 36 young. In contrast, the breeding population along the Dowles Brook, remained unstable. A pair was observed here on April 24th, four males were present on May 6th and one on July 18th, but just one or two pairs believed to have bred. The only other sighting in the county was of two autumn passage birds in Chat Valley on August 21st. Staffs This year the first records came from Cannock Chase with one bird seen at the Stepping Stones on April 20th and three at Seven Springs on the 22nd. Breeding was reported from Consall CP, where one pair used a nest box and Coombes Valley reserve where 23 pairs bred. There were also males singing at boxes in Hamps Valley and at Seven Springs and birds present/singing too at Bearda, Cowhay NR, Danebridge, Dimmingsdale, Meerbrook, South Farley, The Sprink and Upper Hulme. More disturbingly it was reported that there were no breeding birds in the Churnet Valley where, in 2003, seven had bred Tittesworth Report. Spring migrants were recorded at Westport on April 27th and Knypersley on May 5th. Return migration was a rather thin affair with single birds being reported at Blithfield on June 17th, Alton on July 13th, Belvide on August 17th and 21st and two at Doxey Marshes on the 17th.

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus Rare winter visitor, much reduced since 1994 (5/10). Warks After just two reports during the last ten years, a good series of records this year from two sites was the best showing since 1989. At Brandon, a male was seen on January 7th, with presumably the same bird recorded on six further dates to 25th MD et al. In the autumn, at least two were present at Ladywalk from October 11th- 20th with a single bird heard calling there on 31st and again on November 15th SLC, SMH et al. At Brandon, a party of six (including four males and a definite female) was seen on October 26th JMR et al, with two Bearded Tit, Grimley Old Workings, Andy Warr on 29th, one heard again on November 3rd BMCG and lastly one or two calling there on December 26th MD, suggesting that at least one bird was over-wintering. These are the first Brandon records since 1994.

164 Worcs A female discovered at Grimley Old Workings on October 23rd, remained on site until 30th BS et al. Staffs A female or juvenile was seen at Aqualate on December 12th GJM.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common to very common resident. Warks At least three pairs bred at both Brandon and Ladywalk, six pairs in the Napton Res. area and at least five around Wormleighton Res. A total of 27 counted on the May census at DMC Kineton was the highest there since 1998. Outside the breeding season, flocks appeared to be larger and more numerous than in 2003 suggesting a good season. Among the larger parties were 40 at DMC Kineton on February 29th, 45 at Brailes Hill on September 9th and 40 at Wormleighton Res. on 28th. Another at Kingsbury towards the end of the year built up to a peak of 80 on December 15th. Smaller counts of around 20- 35 were also reported at: Bidford-on-Avon, Brandon, Draycote, Dunchurch, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Kites Hardwick, Lighthorne Quarry, Napton Hill, Priors Hardwick and Salford Priors GP. It was reported by BLK to be the commonest tit in open country in the north of the county since 1999. Worcs Twelve pairs bred at Tibberton and two at Bodenham Arboretum. Post breeding groups included 25 in a Redditch garden on August 5th, 20 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 6th, 20 in a Malvern Link garden on 19th and 22 at Abberton on September 12th. Staffs Four-five pairs bred at Belvide (cf. seven in 2003, six in 2002), three at Doxey (cf. four in 2003, three in 2002), and two at Park Banks. Reported from 30 sites throughout the county with the larger counts as follows: in June 20 at West End and 19 at Brookleys Lake; in July 26 at Brookleys Lake; in August 24 at Crumpwood; in September 19 at Doxey and 18 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich; in October 20 at Chasewater, 37 at Doxey, 40 at Greenway Bank and 18 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich; in November 20 at Blithfield, 33 at Doxey and 22 at the White House (Cannock Chase) and in December, 35 at Doxey and 25 at Greenway CP. W Mid Breeding season records were received Marsh Lane NR area, Mons Hill CBC plot (four territories), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley (reported to be stable). Parties of in excess of 20 were regularly noted in the Marsh Lane NR area from July to the end of the year while 25 were counted at Olton Mere in October. A party of 20 was noted in Smestow Valley on November 16th and a total of 28 were counted along the Valley on November 21st.

Marsh Tit Poecile palustris Fairly common resident. Warks This species was very well reported, with records from about 60 sites during the year; but as in other recent years the majority were south of the Solihull-Coventry corridor. North of Coombe Abbey (where it is well-established), it was only reported in the breeding season from Bentley Woods; although there were a few scattered winter records from Hartshill, Maxstoke, Nuneaton and the Arbury district. In southern and central districts breeding pairs were reported from: Avon Dassett, Brailes (three), Chadshunt, Chesterton Wood, Compton Wynyates (two), Coombe Abbey, Debdale Wood (two), Edge Hill (at least seven), Farnborough Park (three), Fenny Compton, Harbury (three), Itchington Holt (two), Kenilworth, Long Itchington/Ufton Woods (several), Oakley Wood, Offchurch, Print Wood, Shuckburgh Hills (five-six), Stoneythorpe Park, Temple Pool, Ufton Hill, Warmington, Whichford Wood and Wormleighton Res. (two). Outside the breeding season, the largest

165 parties consisted of eight at Wormleighton Res. on September 28th and ten at Brailes Hill on September 9th and October 11th. Full song was heard at Butlers Marston on the unusual date of November 26th. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Bredon Hill (a least 10), Dowles Brook (four or five), Malvern Hills (population remains stable) and Shatterford Wood (two or three). Also recorded during the breeding season at Broadway Gravel Pit, Hewell Grange, Old Storridge and Rabbit Wood. During the first winter period, six were at Chase End Wood on January 8th, two were noted at Trimpley Reservoir on 11th and February 8th, one at Kingswood on January 13th, two at Westwood Pool on February 1st, one at Nunnery Wood on 5th and one on a garden feeder at Mount Pleasant on March 31st. Second winter period sightings were of one at Upper Arley on October 3rd, six at Deerfold Wood on December 4th, six on Bredon Hill on 5th and one at Lodge Hill Farm on 19th. Staffs Breeding confirmed only at Ilam where a pair with three juveniles was seen on June 4th. Nevertheless, other records came from across the county. Two birds fed regularly at the Watermills Wood feeding station at Apedale CP from January to March, likewise at the Aqualate feeding station in November and December. Up to two were seen at Belvide from January to October, Blithfield from July to October, Deep Hayes CP from January to March, Ecton from January to February and two were seen at Whitemoor Haye on February 21st. Single birds were recorded in January at Ashwood and Dydon Wood; in February at Madeley STW, Manifold Valley (Swainsley) and Wettonmill; in August at Weag’s Bridge; in September at Chasewater (second ever site record), Dovedale and Fisherwick/Elford GP; in October at Sherbrook Valley and in December at Greenway Bank CP. W Mid One was heard calling from dense woodland in Dorridge Park on July 4th. One appeared in Sandwell Valley on September 26th and was recorded until the end of the year.

Willow Tit Poecile montanus Fairly common resident. Warks Birds were reported during the year from around 45 sites, mainly in the north and east of the county. South of the Solihull-Coventry corridor it is still widespread east of a line from Leamington south to Brailes, but is becoming increasingly rare to the west of here. Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote (four), Avon Dassett, Bishop’s Bowl, Brailes Hill, Brandon, Butlers Marston, Chapel Ascote, Draycote, Edge Hill, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton (six), Kineton, Kingsbury, Knightcote, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Lower Radbourn, Newfield Pool, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Snowford (three), Ufton Fields (two) and Wormleighton Res. (three). Worcs The breeding population remains low, but stable, in north Worcestershire. Sightings from March onwards were of one at Trimpley Reservoir car park on March 12th, one singing at Walsgrove Hill on 26th, one at Caunsall, two pairs on the Clent Hills and one pair at Romsley, all in April. One was on Walton Hill on April 14th, a singing male at Ayton’s Heath on 17th, two along the Dowles Brook on 24th and one singing at Kyre Pool on May 10th. A pair were also noted at Pensax Common on August 6th. Just a couple of summer sightings in the south of the county, with two on Bredon Hill on March 28th and one at Conderton on May 23rd. Very few records were received during both winter periods. Singles were observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on January 2nd, Trimpley Reservoir on 11th, Upton Warren from September 29th-October 6th and November 14th and Kyre Pool on October 4th. A pair was noted at Lower Sapey on October 15th and one was at Coldridge Wood on 18th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Apedale CP where an adult was observed feeding a

166 juvenile but it is probable that at least three pairs bred there. There were three pairs at Belvide, a pair with three juveniles at Branston Water Park, a pair taking food to a nest at Chatterley Whitfield, a pair with two juveniles at Croxall GP, a juvenile seen at Doxey and an adult with a juvenile at Little Aston. Additionally, two pairs were present in the breeding season at Westport; one pair in a nest hole, but success here was not confirmed. Single birds were observed in the breeding season at Bagnall, Clay Mills, Cliff Park Rudyard and Tittesworth. Three birds were present at Knypersley Reservoir in November and four at Aqualate in December. One or two birds were recorded from the following additional sites: Anson’s Bank, Baddeley Green, Bagnall, Bateswood Lake, Beffcote, Blithfield, Branston GP, Croxall, Crumpwood, Drayton Bassett Pits, Dydon Wood, Ecton, Glutton Bridge, Holden Lane Pools, Little Stoke, Madeley STW, Milton (Stoke), National Memorial Arboretum, Norbury Park, Park Banks, Park Hall CP, River Sow Meadows Baswich, Stableford, Stretton, The Sprink, Walton Grange, Whitmore and Wychnor. W Mid Records in the breeding season came from Clayhanger Marsh (at least one pair), Cole Valley (Scribers Lane area), Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (one pair), Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP area and Smestow Valley (approxi mately six pairs – the premier site in the county for this nationally declining species). Also noted in Dunstall Park – presumably birds from Smestow Valley. Two were in Blythe Valley CP on November 26th.

Coal Tit Periparus ater Common to very common resident and irruptive winter visitor. Warks Little information received. Five pairs bred in the deciduous Itchington Holt (cf. six there in 1998). The largest party reported was one of 30 in Farnborough Park on August 17th. Worcs The only breeding data received was of four pairs in nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum where 21 young fledged, with three broods of five and one of six. Reported during the breeding season at Chase End Wood, Deerfold Wood, Eymore Wood, Malvern Hills, Shatterford Wood and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Single breeding pairs were recorded from Belvide (as in 2003) and Little Fernyford. Ten juveniles were counted in Forster’s Wood (Tittesworth) on July 28th while six at Dydon Wood in early July probably indicates breeding there too. The only counts of note were eight at Tittesworth and 10 at Greenway Bank CP in December. One to four birds were reported from another 26 sites. W Mid Breeding season activity was recorded from Edgaston Pool, Mons Hill CBC plot (two territories), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Tettenhall, Wergs Whites Wood and Whitmore Reans. Outside of the breeding season further reported from Marsh Lane NR and Sheepwash UP.

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Abundant resident. Warks A total of 77 young were ringed in 11 nest boxes at Ladywalk, while 102 fledged from 13 boxes at Brandon. A total of 79 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the highest since the count began in 1987; the previous high was 66 in 1999. 15 pairs bred in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot. The largest flocks reported were of up to 60 at Shustoke during February, 50 at Wasperton on July 14th and 65 at Wormleighton Res. on September 28th. Worcs Thirteen pairs used nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged 93 young and 51 pairs bred at Tibberton (cf. 45 in 2003).

167 Staffs Five pairs bred at Doxey (cf. six in 2003). A flock of 45 birds at Madeley STW on September 22nd was by far the largest recorded. There were 23 at Bunkers Hill and 20 at South Farley in April; 20 at West End in September; 23 at Doxey in November and in December, 20 at Astone - fields, 23 at Biddulph Valley, 25 at Greenway Bank CP, 29 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich Blue Tit, Terry Davies and 20 at Tittesworth. W Mid Out of a total of eighteen nest boxes at Marsh Lane NR, seven were occupied by Blue Tits with 39 young counted in the boxes on May 31st. Eighteen territories were located on Mons Hill CBC plot. This was the only data received of any significance.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks A total of 108 young were ringed from 17 nest boxes at Ladywalk, while 138 fledged from 23 boxes at Brandon, both very similar figures to 2003. The largest reported parties were of 45 at Shustoke on February 20th and 28 (mainly juveniles) feeding in a ripening oilseed rape field at Ufton on July 19th. Worcs Fourteen pairs fledged 80 young in nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum and 41 pairs at Tibberton, was an increase of five from 2003. The only other record came from Longdon Marsh, with 20 feeding on a sunflower crop on December 27th. Staffs Six pairs bred at Doxey, as in 2003. The largest flocks reported include 14 in February at Belvide; 14 at Doxey in March, 25 at Belvide in April, 15 at Biddulph Valley, 20 at Greenway Bank CP and 35 at River Sow Meadows Baswich in December. W Mid As with the preceding species the only data received of any significance was of three occupied boxes at Marsh Lane NR and 20 territories identified on Mons Hill CBC plot.

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common to common resident. Warks At least 13 pairs were estimated to have bred in woodland along the Edge Hill escarpment. Other breeding pairs were reported from: Arlescote, Avon Dassett, Burton Green, Chadshunt, Coombe Abbey, Eathorpe, Earlswood, Farnborough Park (three), Kenilworth, Kingswood, Ladbroke (two), Leek Wootton, Middleton Hall, Moreton Morrell, Oakley Wood (two), Radway, Shustoke, Upton Park and Warmington. Worcs The only confirmed breeding record came from Bodenham Arboretum, where a pair raised three young in a nest box. Other reports during the breeding season came from

168 Bredon Hill, Chase End wood, Nunnery Wood, Upton Warren, Wood Norton and Wyre Forest. Staffs A pair bred at Belvide (as in 2000-2003) and two at River Sow Meadows, Baswich. Six at Belvide on March 1st and seven at Greenway Bank CP on December 21st were the highest counts, otherwise reported from 29 sites throughout the county. W Mid Breeding season records were reported from Edgaston Pool, Harborne area, Little Aston, Marsh Lane NR, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Siden Hill Wood, Smestow Valley, Turls Hill and Wergs. Also reported from Dorridge (visiting a garden feeder), Lightwoods Park, Meriden and Sheepwash UP (one on August 31st was only the second locality record).

Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks Breeding was widely reported, including four pairs at Shustoke Res. Eight together were seen at Brandon on July 13th. Worcs Very few records received. A pair bred in a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum and fledged four young, one was at Tibberton on March 8th and Chase End Hill held two on April 12th, November 27th and December 27th. Staffs Three or four pairs bred at Belvide (no change from past three years), three at Doxey (cf. two in 2003) and one at Tittesworth. Three at Apedale CP in January and four at Brocton Coppice were the larger counts, otherwise one or two birds reported from 24 other sites throughout the county. W Mid Rather little information received for this unobtrusive tree-climber but breeding season records came from Edgbaston Pool, Marsh Lane NR area, Meriden, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley.

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus Rare passage migrant (3/10). Warks A bird in a bright female-type plumage, thought to be a first-summer male, was singing and calling in tree tops at Earlswood Lakes on May 26th ARD.

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred (4/10).

2003 Addendum Warks A first-winter bird was present for a short time at Birchmoor on November 6th RLS. The last county record was in August 1983, when one was seen at Bermuda. Although extraordinarily late, there has been an upsurge in late autumn records on the east coast and even in inland counties in recent years.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Rare or scarce passage migrant and winter visitor (9/10). Warks The bird holding territory near Langdon Lane, Radway during November 2003, was seen again there during February 16th-18th PD et al, but not subsequently. It may have been over-wintering on nearby MOD lands at DMC Kineton. In the autumn, a single bird was seen at Brandon on October 31st BMCG. Staffs One remained near the Katyn Memorial, Cannock Chase from October 25th until the year end many observers. Another was seen at Belvide on December 11th-12th SN.

169 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius Fairly common to common resident. Warks A fairly common bird over much of the county, but is generally under-recorded. The largest groups reported were of seven at Brandon on August 22nd, nine at Brailes Hill on September 9th and seven at Wormleighton Res. on 28th. Worcs Reported as quite common during the breeding season in the Wyre Forest, eight pairs bred on the Malvern Hills and a single pair at Tibberton. Castlemorton Common held four on January 17th and three on December 5th, three were at Chase End Hill on April 12th and two on Table Hill on August 1st. Staffs Two pairs bred on farmland adjoining Belvide, as in the previous three years. Eight were present at Apedale CP in January, eight at Chasewater in March and ten in April. In September there were flocks of seven at Chasewater, six at Dydon Wood and six at Park Banks. Reported from 23 other sites. W Mid Seemingly well spread across the county as a breeding species with records from Bills Wood in Shirley (two pairs), Clayhanger Marsh (but reported to be declining), Dunstall Park, Edgbaston, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR area, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (several localities along the Valley), Sutton Park and Whites Wood. Widespread in the Birmingham area during the autumn and also reported from Sheldon and Sheepwash UP.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Warks Among the larger assemblies recorded during the first quarter were 23 at Lillington on February 4th, up to 25 at Shustoke during the same month, and a peak of 33 at Wormleighton Res. on March 10th. During the autumn there were further counts of 18 at Priors Hardwick on October 1st, 20 at Salford Priors GP on 3rd, 28 at Brandon on 24th, and 20 at Cubbington on both 31st and November 24th. Worcs Eleven pairs bred at Tibberton and reported as widespread throughout the year on the Malvern Hills. There were 13 at Evesham on January 11th, 30 on the Clent Hills on March 22nd and 10 at Malvern Link on November 8th. Staffs Under-reported this year. Two or three pairs bred at Belvide (cf. two in 2002), six pairs at Doxey (cf. seven in 2003) and a pair at Wergs. Up to 100 were present at Chasewater in February and 24 pre-roosted at Fernhill on February 22nd. W Mid Seven territories were identified on the Mons Hill CBC plot. 29 birds were counted in Smestow Valley on February 17th and 15 was the peak count reported from Marsh Lane NR on February 26th. 110 roosted at Olton Mere in November. A winter roost of ‘hundreds’ reported from Sheepwash UP. A ‘fawn-coloured’ individual was noted from the Windsor Drive area of Solihull during July and August.

Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks Abundant and probably increasing in the south of the county, with flock size significantly larger than in 2003. Among the highest counts were 500 at Upper Shuckburgh on March 9th, 600 at Butlers Marston on July 13th, 500 at Fenny Compton on October 20th, and 620 at Upper Shuckburgh again on November 25th. In the latter flock was a single pied individual. Flocks of around 2-400 were also noted during the year at: Brailes Hill, Calcutt, Chesterton, Combrook, DMC Kineton, Earlswood, Farnborough Park, Ilmington Downs, Knightcote, Meon Hill, Napton, Priors Hardwick, Radway and

170 Wormleighton. In the north of the county flock size seems lower, with maxima of only around 100-150 at Alvecote and Packington. Worcs Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and 19 pairs held territories at Tibberton. The largest flocks reported were of 160 at Tibberton on January 17th, 90 at Abberton on March 7th, 150 at Bishampton Vale Pool on July 3rd and 300 at Stanford Bridge on December 9th. Staffs Another under- reported species. Regular counting at the River Sow Meadows in Baswich gave the following monthly maxima: February 320, April 250, August 325, October 150, Western Jackdaw, Terry Davies November 145, December 110. Elsewhere there were 120 at Broom Hill on January 4th, 500 at Bent Lane on 6th, 110 at Jack Hayes on February 26th, 160 at Keele on July 5th (presumably a post-breeding flock) and 180 at Beeston Tor on December 5th. W Mid Breeding was reported from Berkswell, Dunstall Park, Handsworth Wood, Meriden area, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Smestow Valley (numbers reported to be stable) and the Turls Hill area. Up to 75 were feeding in fields in Aldridge on January 15th. Ninety were on Smestow School Playing Fields on July 10th while 70 were counted feeding on cut grass at Marsh Lane NR on September 16th and 110 were counted at Olton Mere on December 13th. Also reported from Clayhanger Marsh, where stated to be increasing, and Sheepwash UP.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Very common or abundant resident. Warks The only rookery counts were of 44 nests situated in just three large trees near Oakley Wood, and at least 100 nests in a shelter belt at Upper Radbourn. The largest flocks comprised 500 at Chesterton on January 27th, 465 at Grandborough on July 10th, 575 at Butlers Marston on 12th and 450 at Upper Shuckburgh on November 25th. Flocks of around 200-400 were also reported from: Bascote, Birdingbury, Brailes, Calcutt, Charlecote, Combrook, Compton Verney, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Harbury, Knightcote, Ilmington Downs, Lower Shuckburgh, Napton, Priors Hardwick, Radway, Tysoe and Wormleighton. In the north, the best counts involved 300 at Packington on January 13th and 400 at Alvecote on December 8th. Worcs Two small rookeries of 12 and eight pairs reported at Tibberton and a flock of 112 including 40 juveniles was also recorded post breeding. Larger rookeries observed at Birchen Coppice (52 nests), Coombegreen Common (38 nests), Heightington Brook (27 nests) and Welland (62 nests). Other rookeries, but no counts of nests made at Alvechurch (two), Bradley Green, Hanley Swan, Hollybush and Langdale Wood. Counts during the winter periods were of 118 at Tibberton on January 17th, 180 at Broadway on November 24th and 50 at Castlemorton Common on December 23rd.

171 Staffs Records of rookeries counted this year (nests in brackets) came from Belvide (8), Calton (30), Calwich (45), Denstone (36), Featherstone (10), Park Banks (17), Parkgate (6), Swinscoe (37), Throwley Moor (10), Weaver Hills (17) and Whitmore (50). The only significant flock counts of this common bird include 400 at Bent Lane in January, 165 at Jack Hayes in February and 70 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich in August. W Mid Rookeries were reported from Aldridge (along Bosty Lane 15 nests), Balsall Common, Dunstall Park (18), Meriden, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (six) and Willenhall Memorial Park (11 or 12 nests). Up to 75 were feeding on ploughed fields in Aldridge on February 15th. 42 were counted in Dunstall Park on July 10th.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone Abundant resident. Warks There were six active nests in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot. A nest located in a hedge tree in meadowland at Fenny Compton, was made up of more than 50% green plastic-coated wire. Among the larger counts were at least 350 flying to roost with other corvids on the Fenny Compton Hills on January 25th, 85 on sheep pasture at Priors Hardwick on October 1st, over 100 on Ilmington Downs on November 10th and 150 at Upper Shuckburgh on 25th. A white bird was seen again at Moreton Morrell on September 16th. Worcs Eleven pairs were reported to have bred at Tibberton and the only counts received referred to 300+ at Throckmorton Airfield on April 25th, 30 on North Hill on September 19th and 60 at Bittell Reservoir on November 12th. Staffs Several pairs bred at Belvide and seven at Doxey (up from two in 2003). Reports of larger flocks include 200 at Bent Lane in February, 80 at Apedale CP in April, 127 at River Sow Meadows Baswich in August, 100 at Belvide, December, 120 at Tittesworth and 200 at the Weaver Hills in December. A bird with some white plumage bred with a normal bird producing two juveniles both with varying degrees of white in their plumage too. W Mid Breeding noted at Mons Hill CBC plot (three territories), in Smestow Valley and at Sheepwash UP. In excess of 50 were in Dunstall Park on April 25th while 250 roosted at Olton Mere in November.

Common Raven Corvus corax Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, resident. Warks A total of 17 confirmed or suspected breeding pairs were located in the county (cf. 13-15 in 2003), with birds seen widely across the south of the county north to the boundaries of the Solihull-Coventry corridor, and to Brandon and Dunchurch. North of here the only breeding birds located was again the pair in Packington Park, which reared three young. Birds were also seen on a number of occasions around Hartshill, Ladywalk, Maxstoke, Merevale, Nuneaton and Seeswood. Family groups of up to six were noted regularly, with seven together seen at both Charlecote on September 15th and at Priors Hardwick on October 1st. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Chase End Hill, Fish Hill, Hindlip, Oakley Wood, Tank Quarry (four fledged), Wood Norton and the Wyre Forest. Also reported during the breeding season at Abberton, Bredon Hill, Broadway Hill, Bromsgrove, Castlemorton Common, Clent Hills, Eymore Wood, Gullet Quarry, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Little Malvern, Rabbit Wood, Shatterford Wood, Trench Wood, Upper Arley, Upper Kites Wood, Upton Warren, Walton Hill and Westwood Pool. The highest counts made during the first half of the year were of four at Lower Moor on January 18th,

172 four at Chaddesley Wood on February 16th, five at Eymore Wood on March 4th, four at Wood Norton on May 23rd, seven at Jubilee Hill on June 4th and four at Upper Arley on 13th. During the autumn and second winter period, seven were at Bredon Hill on September 2nd, four at Battenhall on 11th, 18 at North Hill on 19th, five at Eymore Wood on October 25th, 17 at North Hill on November 3rd, 10 at Bittell Reservoir on 12th, 14 at Grimley New Workings on 14th and six at Holt Heath on 19th. Smaller numbers reported from an additional 45 localities during both winter periods. Staffs The spread of this once rare bird continues apace with 283 sightings submitted this year from 97 sites. Eight pairs bred, of which five were successful, two failed, one unknown. Highest flock counts include seven at Coldmeece in January, at least seven on Cannock Chase between May and June, 10 Gradbach and six Revidge in August, eight Cannock Chase in October and 10 there in November and six on Bunster Hill in December. W Mid This species continues to become more commonly recorded within the county with the bulk of records from west of Wolverhampton or in the Meriden/Solihull area. One to three were regularly recorded at Marsh Lane NR throughout the year (noted on 15 dates). One flew over Rowley Regis on March 17th ICW with two over here on October 6th ICW. In Smestow Valley, two flew over on June 2nd, a further two were noted flying over on September 2nd, 3rd and 7th, One was noted in flight over Fen End on an unspecified date in July BLK. One flew low over gardens just south of Solihull town centre on August 26th JC. One flew low over east over Norton Lane, Earlswood on November 24th JC with one low north-west over here on December 2nd JC. A pair was noted in sheep fields in Hampton-in-Arden in the first week of September BLK with up to four opposite the School in Temple Balsall on September 22nd NPB and one again in this area on December 9th NPB. Two were seen flying over the Gate Lane area of Bentley Heath/Dorridge on October 10th NDG. One at Berry Hall on November 11th ARD,

Corvid sp. W Mid The large roost at Wightwick roost continues to be present containing several thousand birds as evidenced by approximately 10,000 (primarily Western Jackdaws) flying north-east over Wightwick fields to the roost on January 17th.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Few breeding notes were received, but 24 on the DMC Kineton May count was the lowest on record and compares badly with the 218 logged on the first count there in 1987. During the early months wintering flocks of 2-300 were noted quite widely, with maxima of 700 at Draycote on January 31st and 1000 at Calcutt on March 17th, the latter probably returning migrants. A big autumn influx occurred from late October, coinciding with the huge influx of Fieldfares and other thrushes. A total of 600 flew west in an hour over Knightcote on October 24th, while later maxima included 1700 at Fenny Compton on 30th, 2-3000 at Kingsbury from 30th to November 2nd, 2000 at Knightcote on November 7th and 1500 at Priors Hardwick on 11th. Flocks of up to 1000 remained into December at these sites, and also in the Napton area. The only roosts reported were of 190 in Lesser Reedmace at Wormleighton Res. on February 17th and 500 in the Ladywalk reedbed on October 20th. Worcs Up to 29 pairs are believed to have bred at Tibberton, compared to 24 in 2003. Kinsham Lake hosted a large roost during both winter periods, with a maximum estimate of 20,000 birds in the first winter period. Large numbers frequented Throckmorton Tip,

173 with counts of 5000 on February 15th, 2500 on September 15th and 3500 on October 1st. A flock of 80 was observed at Tibberton on January 4th and Bishampton Vale Pool held 160 on September 12th. Staffs In January 17,000 flew over Broom Hill to roost at Aqualate on 4th while 920 flew over Weston Jones on 18th but, by the 29th, there were none at Broom Hill. Elsewhere there were 800 at Tittensor rising to 2000 in February. In February 2000 at Tittensor and Stone. while in March 3000 roosted at Rickerscote Church. The largest post-breeding flock was just 500 at Chasewater in June. In late October through November, the Aqualate roost was estimated at 30,000, rising to at least 100,000 in December. In November, 500-800 birds fed at Norton Bridge, a flock of 3000 migrated west at Black Bank on 13th, 2500 flew to roost near Doxey on 28th and 1060 roosted at Belvide on 29th. In December 1800 were at Whitmore on 1st and 1000 all month at Norton Bridge. W Mid Numerous pairs were reported to have breed within the housing estates along Smestow Valley. Also noted on Mons Hill CBC plot and in the Sheepwash UP area during the breeding season. Over 300 were counted in Smestow Valley on May 27th (at least 100 juveniles). September flock counts included in excess of 200 near Grange Barns in Lutley Wedge on 7th while 600 on October 2nd was the peak count at Marsh Lane NR

Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus Very rare vagrant (3/10). W Mid A superb bird was found in the unlikely surroundings of the busy Tyburn Road/Kingsbury Road area on August 3rd and 4th JVH, HK. Although reported to be an adult at least one observer believed this individual to be a sub-adult bird owing to its brownish primaries and short crest plumes. This bird was also reported on additional dates but no further information has been submitted. This is the second county record; the first being in Sutton Park in 1890!

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant, though declining, resident. Warks At least ten pairs bred in farm buildings at Morton Bagot. Flocks of 40-60 were reported during the year at Butlers Marston, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Ilmington, Morton Bagot, Radford Semele and Upper Shuckburgh. The best in urban areas were garden counts of around 30 in Leamington Spa, Nuneaton and Rugby. Worcs Three pairs bred successfully in nest boxes provided at Bodenham Arboretum and 13 young were fledged. 33 pairs held territories at Tibberton, compared to 25 in 2003 and post breeding flocks coming to feeders in a Redditch garden of 50-60 in early August and 80+ on 20th suggested a healthy local breeding population. Other counts came from a Malvern Link garden, with 20 present on April 8th, 40 on July 24th, 30 on August 1st, 40 on September 19th and 15 on December 12th. 30 were seen at Clifton on September 4th, 40 at Lower Moor on October 20th and feeders in a Redditch garden attracted 65 on November 30th, 70 on December 7th and 80 on 18th. Staffs Many more records of this declining species were received this year with records from 37 sites but more data would be very welcome. The largest flock was 40 at Little Aston, with other flocks of 20 or more birds from Aston-by-Stone, Baswich, Bradnop, Burton-on-Trent, Denstone, Keele (Yew Tree Farm), Lowe Hill (Leek), Parkside (Stafford), Weston Jones and Whitley Ford. W Mid Breeding pairs were reported from Dunstall Park, Mons Hill CBC plot (four territories), Sheepwash UP area (said to be declining) and Smestow Valley. A flock of 28

174 was counted in Dunstall Park on August 15th. A partial albino was noted in Smestow Valley between August and October. At Marsh Lane NR reported as ‘remaining scarce’ with sightings on only two dates adjacent to the reserve.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common, though declining, resident.

Tree Sparrows with Bullfinch and Greenfinch, Upton Warren, Andy Warr

Warks The increase continues, helped by an excellent breeding season. There are now many small colonies of up to ten pairs across the Feldon region, north to Dunchurch and west to Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon and Shipston-on-Stour. Beyond this line it is more local; but small populations were reported west to Morton Bagot, Coughton and Salford Priors. Among the larger reported colonies were 35 pairs at Fenny Compton, 25 at Farnborough, at least 20 at both Knightcote and Shotteswell, and 15 at Tysoe. In the north, one-three pairs were reported from Arley, Attleborough Fields, Coton, Hurley Common, Lawford Heath, Maxstoke, Shustoke, Shuttington and Whitacre Heath, but it is probably under-recorded. Productivity in nest box schemes was very high, with for instance seven pairs rearing two broods each at Radway; three pairs each rearing three broods in a Shustoke garden; and amazingly, a pair rearing 16 young from four broods in a Whitacre Heath garden. Outside the breeding season flock size was also larger than in 2003, with the largest in the Feldon heartland comprising 80 at Flecknoe on January 9th, 130 near Wormleighton Res. on March 10th and 125 at Tysoe on November 28th. Further west there were good-sized flocks of 30 at Morton Bagot on September 21st and 50 feeding on spilt grain at Weston-on-Avon during December, while 25 at Draycote on November 13th was the best there for a few years. In the north, counts included 30 at Shustoke on August 16th, a peak of 43 at Blindpit Lane, Wishaw on October 16th, 22 at Alvecote on December 7th and 20 at Bodymoor Heath on 12th. In the Nuneaton area, three at Seeswood Pool on November 17th were the first at that site for ten years. Worcs The only confirmed breeding record came from the nest box scheme at Wassell Grove Business Park, with pairs not reaching double figures. During the first winter period, the feeding stations at Upton Warren held maximum counts of 22 in January, 23 in February, 20 in March, 15 in April and two on May 1st. No other sightings were made at Upton Warren during the breeding season and just two birds returned to the Moors Pools feeding station on December 29th. Six were at a feeding station at Kinsham Lake during the first winter period and were the first recorded here for 10 years. Five were noted along

175 Camp Lane, Grimley from November 14th-December 31st, Haws Hill held seven on December 6th and an exceptional count of 85 bird roosted in a Hawthorn hedge at Stanford Bridge on 10th, but had vanished a week later. Staffs This species is fairly widespread, being reported from 45 sites. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide (two juveniles), Bradnop, Doley Common (three pairs, five broods), Dunston (one), Dunston Heath (at least three pairs, three juveniles), Norton Bridge (two- three pairs, three juveniles) and Weston Jones (four pairs, three of which had second broods). Breeding season sightings also came from Bradley, Branston Gravel Pits, Chapel Chorlton, Coldmeece, Drayton Bassett, Little Stoke, Meece Brook, Norbury, Offley Marsh, Prestwood, Sturbridge, Waterfall, Whitemoor Haye and Whitleyford Bridge. Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Mid-West Belvide – – – – 6 – – 30 52 – – – Blithfield – 5 8 6 – – 6 60 10 – – – Chapel Chorlton – 8 8 4 4 – – – – – – – Dunston Heath 4454115213–– Little Stoke 11 12 – – – – – – 15 10 – – Meece Brook 8 6 – – – – 18 20 – – – – Norbury –6––333–5––– Norton Bridge – 8 – 4 5 5203030403025 Weston Jones –514–106581––– Whitmore 6 3 – – – – – 15 – – – 8 Other Sites 7 77 8 6 12 8 11 – 10 5 9 21 South-East Branston GP –––––6–42020–– Whitemoor Haye 30 – – – 1 12 11 – – – 30 52 Other Sites 1–––1–––21072 North-East All Sites 5222545114223 South-West All Sites 1––––––––210– The highest count of 70 came from Springslade Lodge, Cannock Chase on February 21st. Other double-figure counts came from Aqualate (15 in December), Ashwood (10 in November) and Prestwood (22 in December). W Mid Breeding season records came from Barston, Lutley Wedge (up to four birds noted in late March), Minworth (Wishaw Lane) and Oldwich Lane. Two were noted in Smestow Valley on May 9th and two were again reported from Smestow Valley on August 28th – although did not breed here but did so just outside of the site boundaries. At Marsh Lane NR singles were noted on February 1st, March 31st and April 16th, there were then no further records until three appeared at the feeding station between November 14th and 19th – these records would seem to indicate breeding had possibly taken place nearby.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks There were 43 territories on 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot. 171 counted at DMC Kineton in May, although much lower than last year’s extraordinary 265, keeps up the above average counts recorded there since 1999. Some good-sized flocks were around early in the year, with 100-150 present at Chesterton, Fenny Compton, Knightcote and Wormleighton mainly during January, and a peak of 200 at Tysoe on March 12th. In the north, 76 at Shustoke on February 27th was a good record. Autumn passage over the southern hills began in earnest on September 28th, with 50 moving south-west at Wormleighton Res. in an hour, and continued into early November. Later counts included

176 140 south-west in two hours over Priors Hardwick on October 1st, and 85 south-west over Wormleighton Res. in an hour on 15th. Among the larger flocks noted during the autumn were: 200 migrants leaving a woodland roost at Brailes Hill on October 11th, 120 feeding on beech mast at Ilmington Downs on November 10th, 100 in a stockyard at Fenny Compton on 21st, 125 in game cover at Upper Shuckburgh on 25th, and 100 in stubble at Combrook on 26th. A partly white male was seen at Charlecote on September 3rd. Worcs Four pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and a continued increase reported from Tibberton, with 44 pairs on territories, compared to 37 in 2003, 34 in 2002 and 28 in 2001. Reports during the first winter period were of 60+ at Longdon Marsh on January 10th, 300 at Deansford on February 8th, 170 at Ladies Pool and 100 at Blakedown Pool on 21st and 250 at Lineholt on 22nd. Garden feeding stations at Redditch attracted 40 on March 8th and at Malvern Link, 30 on 12th. Autumn passage birds passed over Happy Valley during October, the best counts being 30 on 19th and 100+ on 26th. During the second winter period a garden feeding station at Stoke Bliss held 52 in November, 40 were on Bredon Hill on December 5th, 65 at Kyre on 13th and 25 at Longdon Marsh on 27th. A flavistic bird first seen in 2002 at Lower Moor, was still present throughout the year. Staffs Five territories at Bateswood (cf. four in 2003) and nine pairs bred at Doxey (no change on 2003). In the first winter period, reports of larger flocks include 100 at Apedale CP in January, 120 in February and 85 in March. There were 70 at Drayton Bassett on New Year’s Day; 90 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich in January, 52 in February and 58 in March; 200 at Bent Lane in January and 100 in February. Visible migration observed at Black Bank picked up 30 south on October 1st in one hour. There were fewer birds than usual in the second winter period, the only significant flock being at the White House with 200 at the start of November rising to 300 by month end. Elsewhere in November there were 60 at Thorswood and 150 at Heaton and in December, 52 at Crumpwood and 30 at Greenway Bank CP. W Mid The only meaningful breeding data received came from Marsh Lane NR (five pairs as 2003) and Mons Hill CBC plot (six territories cf. five in 2003). Breeding numbers reported to be stable along Smestow Valley. Up to 200 were in Blythe Valley CP on January 1st, 30 were at Marsh Lane NR on August 21st and 40 were counted at Edgbaston Reservoir on December 21st.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers. Average dates: October 10th (69) to April 19th (68). The first autumn arrivals were found on October 9th at Walton Hill and Keele University while the last to depart was seen at Westlands, Newcastle-under-Lyme on April 25th. Warks Good numbers were around in the county during the first quarter, with records coming from 31 sites. Most concerned singles or small parties of less than ten, but there were several larger flocks including 50 on Ilmington Downs in early January, 21 at Warmington on January 23rd and a peak of 65 on a farm at Tysoe on February 18th. Many gardens feeders were patronised during late March and early April as migrants passed through, with peaks of 13 in Avon Dassett, nine in Kenilworth, eight in Leek Wootton and 30 at Corley, the latter as late as April 10th. The last birds to be recorded were two at Broadwell on April 16th and one in Avon Dassett on 19th. Birds were very scarce in autumn, with only 13 reported and none at all in December. The first was seen at Upton Park on October 10th, followed by birds at: Wormleighton Res. on 15th and 19th, Brandon on 17th, Ilmington Downs (two) on 18th, Knightcote on 24th, and both Ladywalk and Lea

177 Marston on 30th. In November, there were two at Earlswood Lakes on 5th and two more in a mixed finch flock at Draycote on 13th. Worcs Large numbers recorded during the first winter period. Hinton-on-the-Green held 11 on January 1st, 400 were at Kyre between 1st-18th, 200 at Leigh Sinton on 1st, then 30+ on 8th and a garden feeding station at Stoke Bliss held fluctuating number between 1st and April 21st, the maximum count being 65 on April 2nd. 18 and 12 were at Sheriffs Lench on January 3rd and 17th respectively, small numbers frequented Top Barn Farm between 5th-April 12th, the maximum count being 15 on April 2nd, 60 were at Hill End on January 8th, then 15 on 10th, 15 at Longdon Marsh on 10th, one in a Bromsgrove garden on 12th and 23rd, 30+ at Leigh Sinton on 18th and one at Evesham on 29th. Tilesford held two on February 4th, 30 were at Deansford on 8th and Lineholt held two on 13th, then flocks of 40+ on 22nd, 60 on 28th and March 2nd and 30 on 8th. Singles were seen at Lower Moor on February 14th, 15th and March 27th, Ladies Pool held 35 on February 17th, seven on 21st and one on March 15th, 41 were at Blakedown on February 21st, Hopwood produced counts of 20 on March 7th and 50 on 11th and 13th. Singles were observed at Fernhill Heath on March 9th and 12th, along the A456 near Kidderminster on 10th, a Malvern Link garden on 12th and April 2nd and at Larford on March 14th. Throckmorton Tip held 12 on March 25th, then between one and four up until April 2nd, one was at Wassell Grove on March 28th, three at Westwood Pool on 30th and 31st, then one on April 3rd, three at Arrow Valley Lake on 4th and three separate gardens in Redditch held five on 2nd, 13 on 3rd, 21 on 6th and singles on 3rd, 20th, 21st and 22nd. A male was noted at Far Forest on April 3rd and 5th, one was at Abberton and five at Fairy Glen on 12th and two at West Malvern on 19th. Group totals not reaching double figures during the second winter period. two were recorded at Walton Hill on October 9th, two at Sheriffs Lench on 13th and Nimmings produced counts of two on 18th, five on 25th and November 4th and two on December 3rd. Bredon Hill held nine on October 26th and five on November 1st, singles were noted at Happy Valley on 3rd and 9th, three at Upper Arley on 28th, three over Castlemorton Common on December 5th, one at Hanley Swan on 17th and two at Longdon Marsh on 27th. Staffs During January and February numbers were quite low, with the exception of Acton where a maximum of 120 was recorded in January, 200 in February and 100 early April. The Marquis Drive feeding station also attracted up to 60 birds over the period January-March and 40 were present at Whitmore in January. By late February numbers had reached double figures in an observer’s garden at The Westlands (Newcastle), but really started to build up from March 23rd when 42 were present and peaking at 110 on April 12th! The last sightings of spring were also at this site when two birds were noted on April 25th. Elsewhere in the county double-figure counts came from Belvide peaking at 26 on April 11th, Blithfield peaking at 25, also on April 11th, Keele University with 40 on April 5th and Whitmore with 50 on March 22nd. Single-figure counts came from a further 15 sites. The first autumn bird was a singleton found at Keele University on October 9th. There were few other records until the end of the month when birds started to be reported in quantity on Cannock Chase, with 25 at Marquis Drive on the 31st. There were scattered reports throughout the county for October, November and December with significant numbers at Heaton, with a maximum of 100 in November and 30 in December, Rushton Spencer with 60 in November and Leek with 30 in December. The feeding station at Marquis Drive again proved its value with numbers in double figures often present, the highest count reaching 50. W Mid Four were in Blythe Valley CP on January 1st with 10 on March 11th and three

178 on 26th. A small flock of up to ten birds were noted at Sheepwash UP between January and April 3rd attracted to seed put out for them. There were two at Marsh Lane NR on February 25th followed by two on April 1st while six were at Sheepwash UP on February 29th. Singles were noted in a Lutley Wedge garden (on Haswell Road) on April 7th and 8th, a male in Earlswood (in a Norton Lane garden) on March 26th and a male at Marsh Lane NR on April 8th while 10 were in Blythe Valley CP on April 11th.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Very common to abundant resident. Warks A total of 39 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the best since the count began in 1987. At Morton Bagot, 11 territories were present in 120 ha of mixed farmland. Outside the breeding season flocks were generally fairly modest, with maxima of around 100 occurring at Hodnell and Chesterton (January), Salford Priors GP (August), Morton Bagot (September), Whichford (October) and Draycote (November). The exception was an extremely large flock estimated to be around 1000 strong which fed in an extensive sunflower crop at Lodge Farm, Compton Verney in November-December. A white-headed male visited a Fenny Compton garden on December 17th. Worcs Seven pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and 29 pairs held territories at Tibberton. Flocks in January included 40 at Hill End on 10th, 100 at Lower Strensham on 22nd and 47 at a garden feeding station at Stoke Bliss on 25th. During the second winter period, a game crop at Caunsall held 800 on November 7th, then 350 on 28th, 30+ were at Welland on December 26th, 35 at Longdon Marsh on 27th and 60+ at Wadborough on 28th. Staffs Seven pairs bred at Doxey, up from five in 2003. In the first winter period larger flocks consisted of 22 at Weston Jones in January, 21 at Aston-by-Stone in January and February with 19 in March and 16 at Doxey from February–March. A large flock of 200 birds built up at Little Aston during late August. Visible migration was noted at Black Bank on September 19th with 14 south, October 8th with 53 south and October 26th with 63 south; all in one hour periods after dawn. There were better numbers in the second winter period when in October there were 37 at Doxey, 22 at Gun Hill, 80 at Norton Bridge and 100 going to roost in rhododendrons at Wetley Moor. In November there were 16 at Doxey and 20 at the National Memorial Arboretum while in December 20 were at Astonefields, 48 at Chasewater, 53 at Doxey, 40 at Norton Bridge and 30 at River Sow Meadows, Baswich. W Mid Six territories were identified on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Breeding was also reported from Marsh Lane NR, Sheepwash UP and along Smestow Valley. In excess of 40 were counted at Coventry University (Westward Campus) on January 10th). September flocks included in excess of 60 near Grange Barns in Lutley Wedge on 13th, 100 on stubble near Aldridge cricket ground on 26th, 20 in Smestow Valley on 29th and 20 attracted to feeders at Marsh Lane NR during September.

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Very common summer visitor and partial migrant; increasingly common in winter. Warks This attractive bird appears to be becoming more numerous in many parts of the county, perhaps due to its steadily increasing use of garden feeders. The largest reported count at one set of feeders was 30 in Fenny Compton on April 12th, and flocks of up to this size were frequent across the county in all months. Larger counts during the early months included flocks of around 40-50 at Farnborough Park (in alders) on January 2nd, at Dosthill on 25th and at Alvecote March 11th. Post-breeding flocks were much more numerous, and included peaks of 110 at Priors Hardwick on September 6th, 80 at Charlecote GP on 15th

179 and 85 at Coleshill on 28th, all in thistle-grown fields. Flocks of around 40-60 were also reported during August-December at: Alvecote, Brandon, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Kingsbury, Knightcote, Lighthorne, Morton Bagot, Newbold Comyn, Northend, Salford Priors GP, Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. An albino was seen with a party of eight normal birds in a garden at Leek Wootton on March 8th. Worcs Bodenham Arboretum held two pairs, Tibberton nine pairs and at Stoke Bliss several pairs were present during the breeding season, with at least two broods reared. A garden feeding station at Malvern Link attracted groups of 14 on January 4th, 18 on 9th and 15 on March 12th, Lower Strensham held 40 on January 22nd, 50+ were at Strensham Lagoons on 25th, followed by 80 on February 22nd, Ham Bridge held 15 on January 29th and 50 were at Ladies Pool on March 8th. Post breeding flocks recorded during the autumn came from Ashmoor Common, with 20 present on September 4th, Nafford held 30 on 20th, 30 were at Brotheridge Green and 60 in a garden at Stoke Bliss on 21st, 25 at Clifton Pits on 26th, nine at Malvern Link on 28th and 50 at Grimley New Workings on October 2nd. Second winter period sightings included 150 at Shenstone on November 2nd, between 15 and 20 in a Malvern Link garden from 10th-December 30th, 20 at Castlemorton Common on November 23rd, between 18 and 23 in a Broadway garden on 27th and 28th and 22 at Holt Heath on December 24th. Staffs

Monthly Maxima JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP 50 50 12 5 – 1 8 20 45 28 130 180 Cuckoo Bank ––––––––––50130 Chasewater 3 2 – 3 – – – 25 – – 6 20 Denstone 15 8 – 14 3 – – 2 – 4 200 5 Doxey – 7 6 7 3 –136272652319 R. Sow Meadows 40 35 – 40 – – – 30 40 16 24 15 Westport 201217164 1 – – – – – – Nine pairs bred at Doxey (cf. six in 2003) and a couple at Kettlebrook Lakes. Other high counts consisted of 23 at Hanchurch Water Tower in February, 50 at Belvide in August, 200 at Tittesworth in September and 70 at Belvide in December. W Mid Bred at Marsh Lane NR and in Smestow Valley and also present on Mons Hill CBC plot during the breeding season. A flock of 70 at Marsh Lane NR on January 24th was an impressive first-winter period count. 20 was the highest count from both Dunstall Park and Smestow Valley in November and December. 40 were counted at Sheepwash UP on November 26th. 25 in Blythe Valley CP on December 20th. 50 was the peak autumn and second-winter period count from Marsh Lane NR.

Siskin Carduelis spinus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeding species. Warks Good numbers were present during the early months; with by far the largest flock again present at Brandon, where it reached a peak of 180 on January 23rd (cf. 200 there in both 2002 and 2003). Other good-sized flocks included 60 at Ladywalk on January 3rd, 55 on the River Avon at Guy’s Cliffe on 21st with 60 1km further upstream at Old Milverton on February 10th, 37 at Shustoke on 13th and 40 at Farnborough Park on March 8th. Smaller flocks of around 20-25 were also noted at Charlecote GP, Middleton Hall, Newbold Comyn, Oakley Wood, Wasperton (River Avon) and Ufton Fields. The last spring migrants were seen at Arley on May 1st and at Priors Marston on 25th, while there was a late summer record of a bird in a Wellesbourne garden on August 25th. Like the other winter finches

180 there were very few in the last quarter, with records from just 15 localities and mainly in October. After the first at Brandon on September 26th, a trickle began passing through from the first week in October. Subsequent maxima included just seven at Brandon on October 17th, 12 at Ladywalk on 19th, six at Earlswood Lakes on 29th, and a fairly respectable 25 at Draycote on November 30th. No more than four were seen at other sites. Worcs Three juveniles were noted at Link Top and one juvenile at Malvern Wells in late June and may have suggested breeding taking place in the Malvern area. A relatively poor year recorded, with the best first winter period counts being 50 at Kinsham Lake during January and February, a maximum of 40 at Trimpley Reservoir between January 3rd and March 2nd, 70 at Bittell Reservoir on January 24th, 125 at Wilden on 30th, 50 at Stoke Bliss on 31st and 50 at Abberton on February 5th. Counts 20 or below also reported from Arley Wood, Berkeley, Bredon Hill, Chaddesley Corbett, Eymore Wood, Grafton Lane, Hayley Green, Hanley Swan, Lodge Hill Farm, Malvern Link, Redditch, Storridge, Upton Warren, Wassell Grove and West Malvern. May records came from the Wyre Forest, with a dozen present at Lodge Hill Farm on 2nd and two on 11th. During the autumn and second winter period, Happy Valley held one on September 28th, two on October 11th, three on 13th, one on 31st and two on November 3rd. Seven were at Sheriffs Lench on September 26th, five on Bredon Hill on October 7th and 26th, two at Happy Valley on 11th, 31st and November 3rd and one at Upton Warren on October 15th. Castlemorton Common held one on October 19th, then 25 on November 6th, two were at Grimley Old Workings on October 24th, two at Grimley Brick Pit on November 7th and five at Lodge Hill Farm on 13th. Staffs There was a single record of breeding, at Doxey Marshes, where an adult was seen feeding two juveniles on June 20th. The bulk of spring sightings were over by the end of March but with sporadic records through to the end of June. As well as the breeding mentioned, a female was present at Ingestre on June 25th. Significant early season flocks were seen at Crumpwood, with a maximum of 200 in January and 30 in February, at Tittesworth Res. with maxima of 50 in January and February and at Westport Lake, with maxima of 30 in January, 70 in February and 20 in March. At Clayton a flock of 80 birds in March still comprised 60 in early April. Autumn sightings began on September 26th with a single bird at Tittesworth but numbers did not begin to pick up until a month later when 30 were reported in the Sherbrook Valley on October 25th. Autumn flocks were generally quite small, significant numbers only being seen at Hanchurch Woods, with a maximum of 80, at Tittesworth, with a maximum of 30 in November and Stableford with 45 and Crumpwood with 32 in December. Given the late spring records for this species it would be worth making a concentrated search for more breeding pairs. W Mid Sixty in Blythe Valley CP on January 1st and 50 in the Marsh Lane NR area on February 20th were the only counts of any significance reported during the first winter period. Also reported in the first winter period, five or fewer, from Dunstall Park, Selly Park, Smestow Valley and Wergs. During the second-winter period two flocks totalling 55 birds was noted at Marsh Lane NR. Also reported from Sheepwash UP during the ‘winter’ period. Garden records in first winter period came from Dorridge and Earlswood (Norton Lane).

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant, with fewer in winter. Warks Reports suggest that the population is now fairly stable. Breeding census data included 35 pairs in around 70 ha of scrubby grassland at Lighthorne Quarry and 17 pairs in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot. A good number of flocks were reported during the early months, with maxima of 150 at Windmill Hill, Ilmington Downs on

181 January 27th, 100 at Fenny Compton on February 9th and March 27th, 240 at Butlers Marston on February 16th, 95 at Tysoe on 25th and 150 at Priors Hardwick on March 10th. After the breeding season substantial flocks built up from late June, with flocks of around 100-150 present at Bentley, Burton Dassett, Charlecote, DMC Kineton, Dunnington, Northend, Priors Hardwick and Wormleighton. Larger flocks included maxima of 350 at Salford Priors GP on October 3rd, 500 at Birchmoor on 4th, 215 at Ilmington Downs on 6th, 275 at Marlcliff Hill on 7th and 180 at Fenny Compton on November 15th. The remarkable consistency in dates would suggest that the first week in October was the peak time for passage. Worcs Eleven pairs bred at Tibberton and on the Malvern Hills, 15 pairs were recorded around North Hill on April 18th and three pairs at Castlemorton Common on May 23rd. Counts of 50 or above during the first winter period came from Upper Bittell Reservoir, with 50 on January 2nd, 50 were at Kyre on 4th, 100 at Kempsey on 17th, 200 at Lower Strensham on 22nd, 70 at Stoke Bliss on 31st, 106 at Shatterford Wood on February 15th, 79 at Blakedown on 21st and 50 at Lower Moor on 23rd. Tibberton held notable flocks during April, with 130 present on 4th, 220 on 5th, 160 on 14th and 50 on 20th. 50 were also at Spetchley Park on April 19th. Post-breeding groups were reported from Hollybed Common, with 50 on July 5th, 75 on August 6th and 10th and 50 on September 3rd. 80 were at Holt Prairies on August 29th, 200 at Broadheath on September 20th and 50 at Lower Sapey on October 12th. During the second winter period, Bredon Hill held 100 on October 24th, 100 were at Chadbury on November 7th, 250 to 275 at Lower Moor between 26th- December 31st, 130 at Castlemorton Common on December 19th and 50 at Kyre on 25th. Staffs There are records for this common bird throughout the county, concentrated in the north and east and becoming sparser in the south and west. Breeding was only reported from Bateswood CP, where there was one pair (down on the three at that site in 2003), Belvide with three pairs and Doxey Marshes, with one pair. An extensive survey of the mid and western North Staffs Moors produced 85 territories in total RMB et al. There were some impressive early season flocks, with significant numbers as follows: January – up to 250 at Coldmeece Pools, 110 at Little Aston and 150 at Whitemoor Haye; February – maxima of 220 at Coldmeece Pools and 400 at Gailey and in March 180 at Coldmeece Pools. Late season flocks were generally much smaller. Whilst September saw 200 at Whitemoor Haye and 140 at Musden Low, October could only muster a maximum of 30 at Belvide, November 10 at the National Memorial Arboretum and December 13 at Chasewater. W Mid Breeding season reports were received from Bowmans Harbour (two or three pairs), Dunstall Park, Hurst Hill Allotments, Marsh Lane NR, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. A flock of 32 was counted on Darby’s Hill on February 24th while up to 250 were counted in Blythe Valley CP on March 11th and April 11th while 50 were counted at Sheepwash UP on April 3rd. A very impressive 200 birds were counted off Wishaw Lane (near Minworth) on both April 19th and September 30th. Flocks were regularly attracted to crops specifically sown for seed-eating birds at Marsh Lane NR with the highest count being 40 birds in September. In excess of 50 were in Lutley Wedge on October 10th and 35 in Blythe Valley CP on November 5th.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris Scarce summer visitor to the North Staffs. Moors. Scarce and much declined winter visitor. Staffs A pair was seen on the North Staffs Moors on June 2nd RMB which may indicate attempted breeding. Later, seven were seen at Knotbury on August 26th AH.

182 Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Warks Records were fairly widespread during the early months, particularly along the main river valleys, in small parties of up to a dozen. Maxima during this period consisted of 30 at Earlswood Lakes on January 4th and 50 at Brandon on February 17th, with the last birds noted in a Leek Wootton garden on April 22nd and at Brandon on 24th. The first autumn return was at Ladywalk on September 5th, but no others appeared until early October. From then to the end of the year it was reported from only 14 localities and was remarkably scarce across the whole county. Most records consisted of just one-three birds concentrated during the period mid-October to mid-November, after which the species largely deserted the county apart from Ladywalk and three sites in the Avon Valley. Maxima consisted of 12 in a garden at Earlswood Common on October 26th, 11 at Draycote and 15 at Ladywalk on November 2nd, eight at Abbots Salford on December 11th and 15 at Brandon on 19th. Worcs Very small numbers were present during both winter periods, the highest counts during the first being 50 at Kinsham Lake in January, 30 at Lower Moor and 26 at Tibberton on 1st, 48 at Castlemorton Common on 11th, 20 at Grimley New Workings on February 11th, 20 at Upton Warren on 12th, 25 at Barnett Brook on 26th and 25 in a Malvern Link garden on March 20th. Counts below 10 were also made at Abberton, Eymore Wood, Hanley Swan, Hill End, Lineholt, Throckmorton Tip, Wassell Grove, West Malvern and Westwood Pool. From mid April Upton Warren held seven on 16th, 15 at Welland on 17th, 20+ were in at Malvern Link garden on 19th, two at Lower Moor on 21st, six at Chase End Hill on 23rd, one at Kinsham Lake on 27th, several on Bredon Hill on May 10th and one at Dowles Brook on 11th. A count of 40 autumn passage birds was made at Happy Valley on September 19th and this locality continued to record small numbers throughout October and November. 10 were at Coldridge Wood on October 19th, 30 and 15 at Castlemorton Common on November 6th and December 5th respectively and singles or pairs were also reported from Bredon Hill, Clifton Pits, Grimley Brick Pit, Habberley Valley, Kinsham Lake, Oakley Pool, Shadybank Common, Throckmorton Tip and Upton Warren during the second winter period. Staffs Breeding pairs/males were observed in song flight and display at Gib Torr, Gun Hill (one at Cliff Farm, three at Isle Farm), Hollinsclough, Knotbury (one or two), Swallow Moss and Westport at the old sewage works. Given that all but the latter sites are on the North Staffs Moors, it is likely that more pairs would be found with comprehensive searching. Additionally, six at Black Brook and a male at Morridge were present in the breeding season; these two sites also being on the Moors. No data was received from Cannock Chase.

Monthly Maxima JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP 70 40 50 2 1 – – 4 – 4 24 10 Aqualate – – – – – – – – – 50 40 30 Chasewater 15 10 10 – – – – – – 17 20 10 Westport 108222–––––––

In the first winter period, significant flock counts in January consisted of 200 at Crumpwood, ten at Madeley STW and 50 at Bateswood; in March there were eight at Knypersley and Madeley STW; in April, 20 at Abraham’s Valley, 21 at Bateswood, 11 at

183 Coldmeece, 26 in Sherbrook Valley and 60 at Strawberry Hill. In the second in winter period in October there were 30 at Blithfield and 20 over Lichfield; in November 10 at Hanchurch Woods and Knypersley and in December 40 at Brocton Coppice, 12 at Crumpwood and 100 at the German Cemetery. Reported in smaller numbers from 20 other sites. W Mid A pair was noted in the Turls Hill Lane/Whites Wood area on April 11th, also reported from the Mons Hill CBC plot during the breeding season. Up to 25 were counted feeding in alders at Marsh Lane NR in January. Seven were in Cannon Hill Park on April 11th. In the second winter period, 17 were in Blythe Valley CP on October 29th and a flock of 30 landed briefly in a Shirley garden on October 30th,. Twenty were at Marsh Lane NR on November 6th and 7th, 25 in Dunstall Park on November 11th and 20 were counted at Ravenshaw on November 15th. Forty in November was the peak count reported from Sheepwash UP. Also reported from Blythe Valley Country Park, Smestow Valley.

Common (Mealy) Redpoll Carduelis flammea Rare or scarce winter visitor in fluctuating numbers (9/10). Warks A single bird exhibiting features of this species frequented a feeder in a Nuneaton garden on March 6th-7th NDBC. W Mid Three birds were noted along the Ford Brook at Clayhanger on January 22nd CM.

Redpoll sp. Worcs 20+ reported over Abberton on January 4th, then 12 on February 28th.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic breeding species. Warks There were still a few birds moving about the county, with one at Draycote on January 1st RCM, two on the Shuckburgh Hills on March 9th JJB, a party of six in the gardens at Farnborough Park on April 19th RWh, and a party of nine flying north-west over Castle Hill, Brailes on June 29th JJB. Worcs Small numbers continued to linger in the county, being reported during five months of the year. Eymore wood held five on January 1st, two on 18th and 11 on February 1st, 12 were at Anhill Wood near Trimpley Reservoir on January 6th, seven flew over Shatterford Wood on February 7th, eight were at Trimpley Reservoir on 11th and one flew over Coldridge Wood on 15th. Six were reported from Chaddesley Wood on April 9th, two immature birds were noted at Kinsham Lake on June 4th and the only sightings during the second winter period came from Bredon Hill, with three at Foxhill Wood on November 14th and one there on 15th. Staffs No birds were seen in January but, from February, reasonable numbers started appearing on Cannock Chase with 40 birds at Seven Springs on February 8th, thereafter dropping to 16-18 birds until March 27th. These were seen at several sites but predominantly Strawberry Hill. Then, from April until June 20th, no more than two birds were seen at any one time. Elsewhere, there were ten at Chillington on February 16th, birds were heard at Hanchurch on March 7th and three were at Bishops Wood (near Doley) on March 13th with two there on April 24th.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Warks The population appears to remain stable. The 21 logged at DMC Kineton in May

184 was very marginally the best count there since 1998. Commonly found outside the breeding season in parties of up to a dozen or so, the largest this year was 25 at Wormleighton Res. on August 22nd. Worcs Six pairs held territories at Tibberton and a slight increase in the breeding population was reported from the Malvern Hills and Commons. Also bred at Bodenham Arboretum, Broadway Gravel Pit, Lower Moor and Upton Warren. The Moors Pools feeding station at Upton Warren attracted 10 on January 19th and eight on 23rd, Happy Valley held 12 on September 28th, 20+ on October 31st and 12 on November 3rd and 11 were on Bredon Hill on 15th. Staffs The only breeding reports of note for this species include a pair with a juvenile seen at Swallow Moss on July 10th, and a female and juvenile at Revidge on August 22nd. A further two juveniles were seen at Tittesworth on August 7th. Three-four pairs were present in the breeding season at Apedale CP. The majority of reports were for pairs or single birds, with a few small flocks outside the breeding season. In the early part of the year the largest were a flock of eight at Belvide and six at Marquis Drive in January and eight at both Black Bank and Westport Lake in February. The autumn flocks were again quite small, the most significant being 12 at Black Bank in November and 20 at both Belvide and Chasewater in December. The species is widely but thinly recorded, from some 60 sites, there is a distinct gap in records for the middle and south-east of the county. W Mid Birds were noted in the breeding season from Dorridge (adults with young noted coming to a garden feeder in June/July), Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot (six territories), Sandwell Valley (several pairs), Sheepwash UP (two or three pairs), Smestow Valley (several pairs) and Whites Wood (two pairs). 10 were counted along Smestow Valley in November and seven counted in a Dorridge garden on December 28th.

Northern Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula pyrrhula Staffs As part of a national influx during the second winter period, one was located at Belvide associating with Bullfinches on November 6th SN.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce to uncommon, but declining, resident. Worcs The only reports this year came from Chase End Wood, during the first winter period. The first sighting came on January 4th, when 11 birds were noted, then numbers fluctuated between two and 18 individuals until February 29th. Hereafter no other sightings were made until April 9th, when just two birds were present. Staffs A male found at the Wolseley Centre on January 28th FCG remained until March 11th when it was joined by another BLK.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor (9/10). Warks A female or first-winter bird was found in a large flock of immigrant Sky Larks at Fenny Compton on November 13th JJB. Worcs Three individuals were observed on Worcestershire Beacon during October and November, the first being an immature bird from October 7th-12th DS et al. An adult male was present from November 25th-29th WFP et al and was joined by an immature on 26th and 29th SMW et al. An adult male was heard calling, then observed circling a field off Wagon Wheel Lane at Grimley for about 20 minutes, before departed south on October 31st BS.

185 Staffs A good year for sightings with a female Seighford Airfield on March 17th NGG, one at Blithfield on November 1st-3rd ESC and one at Cuckoo Bank from November 28th to December 5th GW et al.

2003 Addendum Staffs One flew over Black Bank on October 11th NDP. Snow Bunting, Worcestershire Beacon, Andy Warr

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common to abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Twenty pairs bred in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot. A total of 49 logged in May at DMC Kineton, although down from the high of 58 in 2002, was very similar to other counts since 1998 suggesting numbers have stabilised there. Winter flocks were more in evidence this year, with maxima of 120 roosting in a grass field near Wishaw Church on January 15th, 120 at Fenny Compton on 26th, 120 at Ilmington Downs on November 10th and 125 at Tysoe on 28th. Flocks of around 40-70 were also reported from: Birchmoor, Brailes, Chesterton, Farnborough, Kineton, Lillington, Priors Hardwick, Radway, Salford Priors GP, Tomlow, Upper Shuckburgh and Wormleighton outside the breeding season. Up to 16 were also regularly coming to a garden feeding station in Long Lawford during December. A male observed at Fenny Compton on September 30th was mainly white, apart from a yellow head and belly, and some dark tail feathers. Worcs Seventeen pairs held territories at Tibberton, compared to 10 in 2003 and single pairs bred at Ryall Pits and Shernal Green. Up to six singing males were recorded at Castlemorton Common in late February, but had reduced to three by April 25th and two on May 23rd and the adjacent Hollybed Common held three singing males on May 2nd, then four on June 13th. Shatterford Wood held four singing males on February 15th and six on March 30th, two were singing at Berrow Down on May 2nd and just one singing male was noted during the breeding season along the Dowles Brook, compared to four in 2003. January sightings were of 12 at Clifton Pits and 20 at a feeding station at Kinsham Lake throughout the month and 34 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 2nd. A group of 15 were observed at Hollybed Common on September 26th, 40 were on Bredon Hill on October 1st, 25 at Lower Moor during December and 15+ at Lodge Hill Farm on 19th. Staffs Although a number of singing males were noted, there were no reports of breeding for this species. There was, however, a note that the first ever singing male was recorded for Black Bank NDP. Reports of early season flocks were rather few, with a maximum of 50 at Flashbrook Grange and 46 at Norbury Manor in January and 20 at Little Stoke in February. During the breeding season birds were noted singing at Apedale CP (just one singing bird located), Black Bank, Coldmeece Pools, Fernhill, Stone, Wergs and Weston Jones Mill. The autumn and winter flocks were generally larger than in the spring season, Cuckoo Bank holding the greatest numbers with 30 in October and 50 in

186 December. Other good sites included Norton Bridge, with a maximum of 20 and the National Memorial Arboretum with a maximum of 14. There is a distinct dearth of records for this species in the east of the county, backed up by a note in the records which suggests that it is scarce in the vale of the River Trent RCB. W Mid Breeding season reports came from Dorridge STW and Marsh Lane NR (up to three males noted in April with one lingering into May though not thought to have bred). Noted in the Wightwick Fields area during the breeding season Yellowhammer, Cannock Chase, Dave Kelsall though no breeding con - firmed on the West Midlands side of the county boundary. At Marsh Lane NR during the first winter period high numbers were regularly noted feeding on corn with the highest count being 70 on January 14th (second winter counts were greatly reduced owing to crop failure). Approximately 14 birds were noted in the Dorridge area on January 11th, 30 were at Cuckoos Nook in Aldridge on January 27th, at least 20 at Foxcote Pond in Lutley Wedge on October 14th and one was noted over Dunstall Park on November 11th.

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla Very rare vagrant (3/10).

2003 Addendum

W Mid One was heard and seen briefly at Aldersley/Oxley on October 18th GC. This is the first record for the West Midlands metropolitan county and the fifth for the West Midland Bird Club region, the last being at nearby Belvide Reservoir in April 1995.

Smaller than an accompanying Reed Bunting, it had chestnut on its ear coverts and gave a ʻticʼ like call. Unfortunately, despite extensive searching, it was not seen or heard again. There were strong easterly winds at the time and a notable passage of Fieldfare and Redwing, higher numbers of Bullfinch and Reed Bunting than usual, and the first Tree Sparrow in the area since 1992.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though declining, resident. Warks Breeding pairs were widely reported, with the best concentrations at: Brandon Marsh (eight), DMC Kineton (eight), Fenny Compton (eight), Hunningham (11 in rape fields), Lighthorne Quarry (11, cf. 14 in 2003, 12 in 2001-02), Napton Res. (seven), Offchurch (six), Priors Hardwick (11), Salford Priors GP (nine), Ufton parish (ten), Willoughby (four) and Wormleighton Res. (six). Most repeat counts were very similar to 2003. Outside the breeding season there was one outstanding count, a flock of 125 feeding with Tree Sparrows and Yellowhammers in grassland at Tysoe on November 28th. Other

187 flocks were small by comparison, with parties of around 20-30 recorded at: Birchmoor, Bodymoor Heath, Butlers Marston STW (roosting in reedbed), Fenny Compton, Napton Res., Priors Hardwick and Salford Priors GP. Worcs Five pairs held territories along the canal between Blackpole and Hanbury Wharf, a singing male was observed at Oddingley on March 8th and two pairs were recorded at Strensham Lagoons on 14th. Also bred at Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor (five pairs), Oakley Pool and Upton Warren. A maximum of 300 birds roosted at Kinsham Lake during both winter periods, 42 were noted at Upper Bittell reservoir on January 2nd, 28 at Abberton on September 2nd, 40 at Gwen Finch Wetland on November 11th and 15 at Wadborough on December 28th. Small numbers also reported from Castlemorton Common and Longdon Marsh during the second winter period. Staffs Although many birds and singing males were seen in suitable habitats breeding was only noted for Belvide, where seven pairs bred, Black Bank three pairs, Doley Common four pairs, Doxey Marshes where there were “signs of breeding” amongst the 74 pairs present and Wetley Moor where a pair were seen taking food to a nest. During the breeding season significant numbers also came from Apedale CP (five territories) Baswich (seven), Blithfield (six), Coldmeece Pools (two), Colwich (two), Pool Dam (five), Tittesworth (six), Whitemoor Haye (one) and Whitmore (one). On the North Staffs Moors, 21 pairs or territories were located in the area between Tittesworth and Warslow. Outside of the breeding period significant early season flocks were reported for Swallow Moss, with 16 on January 2nd, Wetley Moor, where a flock of 41 was seen to go to roost also on January 2nd, and Revidge, where there were 50 on February 21st. Late season flocks were generally smaller with a maximum of 10 at Wetley Moor in October, and 15 at Cuckoo Bank and 52 at Clay Mills STW in December. W Mid Breeding season records were received from Blythe Valley Country Park (seven in song), Brueton Park, Dorridge Park area, Dorridge STW (three males), Dunstall Park, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (at least six pairs), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two pairs), Smestow Valley (three pairs) and Sutton Park. Up to 30 birds were at Marsh Lane NR in the first winter period with 20 counted in November. Also reported from Lutley Wedge in March, May (noted flying over) and October.

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala Very rare vagrant. Warks A male spent the day in a Nuneaton garden on May 31st AMc, CMc, SS. It was seen to go to roost at dusk but could not be relocated the following morning. Although often kept in captivity, there were no visible signs of this and the timing strongly suggests that this was a genuine vagrant. This remarkable record was the first for the region, and joins Common Rosefinch (2003) and Serin (2002) in completing a trio of county firsts to have turned up in spring in Warwickshire gardens! See article on page 201.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra Fairly common, though much declined, resident. Warks Breeding territories were reported from: Birchmoor, Bramcote Hall, Charlecote, Farnborough (four), Hunningham (three), Hunscote (several), Lawford Heath (several), Long Itchington (18, cf. 19 in 2003, 13 in 2002), Milcote (four, in only a partial count of the area), Ufton, Wasperton (three) and Wishaw. Some good-sized winter flocks were located during the opening two months, with maxima of 28 at Wishaw on January 12th, 28 at Bidford-on-Avon on 21st, 13 at Curdworth (part of the Wishaw flock) on February 11th

188 and 40 at Farnborough on 17th. Very small numbers were also noted outside the breeding season at: Birchmoor, Bulkington, Draycote, Ilmington, Salford Priors GP, Wasperton and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Continues to decline as both a breeding species and wintering bird. Three pairs believed to have bred at Lower moor, compared to five in 2003 and a single male at Ryall Pits attracted a mate and bred success - fully, compared to four singing males being present in 2003. Three males were singing at Throckmorton Tip on May 21st, but just a single pair believed to have bred successfully. Corn Bunting Tony Davison Other singing males reported from the Bricklehampton/Crop thorne area (three), Chaddesley Corbett (one), Fladbury (two), Grimley Church (one), Holt Prairies (one), Shenstone (two) and Wyre Piddle (one). Just a single bird reported during the first winter period, at Gwen Finch Wetland on January 10th. Second winter period sightings were of one at Lower Moor on October 25th, 10 at Shenstone on 27th, then two on November 11th, one at Sheriff’s Lench on 6th and one on Bredon Hill on 7th. Staffs Records of this declining species were scattered across the southern half of the county with the majority of reports, and most significant concentrations, at Whitemoor Haye. Apart from a flock of 20 birds at Flashbrook Manor on January 20th all pre- breeding records were from Whitemoor Haye. Here birds were also heard singing through- out the breeding season and in flocks of up to 30 in the early part of the year. Away from the Whitemoor Haye area there were breeding season sightings at Aldershaw, Croxall and High Offley. Despite these records there were no reports of breeding. After the breeding season small numbers of birds were seen at Blithfield in August, Belvide in October, Park Farm in November and Fisherwick/Elford gravel Pits in December. W Mid Two or three singing birds in the Hillwood Common Road in Sutton Coldfield (near the County boundary with Staffordshire – at least two other singing male were reported from just across the County boundary).

189 Appendix 1 This includes: • all records of species on the GB list in Categories A-C which have only been recorded in the region as known or suspected escapes. This would include sedentary introduced species such as Golden Pheasant which don’t have established populations in the region, and are unlikely to wander naturally to the area from these populations. • all records of species currently in Category D of the GB list. This would include such species as Marbled, Falcated and White-headed Ducks, Ross’s Goose, Saker and Red- headed Bunting.

Any record appearing in Appendix 1 is excluded from the main county lists.

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Staffs A feral bird was seen at Fisherwick/Elford GP on September 30th DMW.

Rossʼs Goose Anser rossii Warks A single bird flew north at Wormleighton Res. in company with a party of Canada Geese on September 28th. Staffs A small feral bird, thought to be a Ross’s x Barnacle hybrid, was present at Madeley Village pond from October 1st to December 31st.

Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii Warks Single birds of this newly promoted species were identified at Ladywalk (race not identified) on May 20th and at Salford Priors GP (B. h. minima) on September 12th.

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis Staffs A feral bird was present at Aqualate on August 22nd, Doxey November 22nd- 25th and back at Aqualate on 29th and December 12th.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Worcs A pair observed at Upton Warren on April 7th AFJ et al, also visited Grimley New and Old Workings on 14th NC et al. Staffs Five were seen at Blithfield on January 14th ESC with probably the same group there on February 7th MPR. At Belvide, two were present on March 27th and May 26th, one on 28th, two on September 1st, one on 15th and one on 25th. These feral birds commute between here and Dunstall Racecourse (Wolverhampton). A female was seen at Westport on April 2nd WJL, two over Baggeridge on 3rd and two at Doxey on May 3rd. At Blithfield there was one on June 28th, two on July 14th ESC, three females/immatures on August 22nd MPR and 28th, and one on October 16th MPR. Two birds were seen at Aqualate on August 9th PJor and 21st FCG. W Mid At Dunstall Park, two males were present on April 2nd and noted most days thereafter until 14th, with further sightings on 21st and 23rd. What were, presumably, the same birds were noted on July 10th, September 2nd to 6th (most days) with three females and a single male present most days between September 25th and 30th, throughout October and on November 5th, 13th, 14th, 19th and 24th.

190 Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus Warks An immature male present at Alvecote from May 1st-June 25th, and again from August 8th-24th and during November-December, was thought to have escaped from a collection at Mancetter.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Worcs A male was noted at Nash End on March 28th, April 1st, 2nd and 9th. Appendix 2 (Exotica) The following species all fall into Category E of the British List (BOU 1998), as being introductions, transportees or escapees from captivity and whose breeding populations are not thought to be self-sustaining. The sequence and the nomenclature used in this section follow Birds of the World-A Check List, 5th Edition J.F. Clements (2000).

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, where introduced. Warks The pair from 2003 remained at Lower Radbourn during January-February, but then departed. Singles occurred at Alvecote on March 7th and May 2nd, with four there on December 24th. One visited Salford Priors GP on August 15th. Worcs An adult was along the River Severn at Worcester on March 2nd and 15th, plus at Grimley New Workings on July 19th and August 12th. Staffs Two were seen on the Trent-Mersey Canal at Rugeley during January. One was at Whitemoor Haye on January 4th at the same time that four were present at Dunstall. Two visited Blithfield on January 6th, two at Whitemoor Haye on 13th with one on 25th. One at Borrowpit Lake, Tamworth on March 24th was joined by two more on the River Tame there on 28th with one still present April 5th. One returned to Borrowpit Lake on April 17th after two were recorded at Drayton Bassett Pits the previous two days. One at Hill Ridware on May 22nd, then one at Croxall GP on June 19th, July 4th, 18th and August 22nd when two were also seen at Aqualate. One returned to Hill Ridware on September 19th and October 17th with the last at Fisherwick/Elford North Pit on November 14th. W Mid Two birds were on Wyndley Pool in Sutton Park on March 8th.

Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Western North America. Worcs An adult was noted at Grimley New Workings on November 21st.

Black-necked Swan Cygnus melanocorypha Southern Brazil to Tierra del Fuego. Warks Three at The Somers on July 10th, were also seen at Bradnocks Marsh (W. Mids) around the same time.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Breeds on the high plateaux in central and southern Asia and winters mainly in northern India and Burma. Warks Up to five were present at DMC Kineton for most of the year, but with no evidence of breeding (cf. one pair reared young here in 2002-03) . Elsewhere, there were singles at Priors Marston on March 3rd, Brandon on April 20th, Great Alne from May 16th- 18th and Draycote from December 12th-16th.

191 Worcs One frequented Lower Moor from January 3rd-March 14th and on May 12th, Bredon’s Hardwick held a pair on October 8th and a pair was seen on many dates at Grimley New Workings between October 11th and November 4th. Staffs One at Hanley Forest Park on January 16th. W Mid One was noted with Canada geese in Sandwell Valley on June 3rd and 4th.

Chinese Goose Worcs One at Beckford Lakes on November 1st.

Domestic Goose Warks At least 60 were resident on the River Avon at Stratford all year.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata Lowlands of Mexico to NE Argentina and Brazil. Staffs One at Barton GP on April 24th.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa Forested wetlands and Inland lakes of Canada, south to northern Mexico. Warks A male was present at Lea Marston from November 20th-December 31st. Worcs Trimpley Lower Reservoir held a drake on January 1st, 3rd and 6th.

White-cheeked (Bahama) Pintail Anas bahamensis Locally in South America, the West Indies and Galapagos Islands. Warks One at Alvecote from February 22nd-March 31st.

Green Pheasant Phasianus versicolor Japan. Warks A male at Shuckburgh Park on November 25th.

Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus Forests and scrub of E Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. W Mid The male bird first recorded in Smestow Valley in 1999 was again noted this year between April and July.

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Africa. Warks A calling bird was in Debdale Wood, Birdingbury on May 17th. It was also reported in the breeding season from the Arnold’s Wood area.

Harrisʼs Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus Semi-arid woodland and scrub in South and Central America, north to southern Texas and Arizona. Worcs One at Spetchley on June 1st. Staffs One took up residence in the Cannock area from July 7th-19th.

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis Canada, the USA and south to Mexico. Worcs One at Spetchley on June 1st.

192 Parrot sp. Psittacidae Warks A bird in the Maxstoke area all year, often in company with Rooks, was probably a type of Conure.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita New Guinea and adjacent islands to Australia and Tasmania. W Mid One was feeding with corvids on a ploughed field at the rear of Foxcote Pond in Lutley Wedge on March 24th.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Open habitats throughout inland Australia. Warks One at Brandon on October 7th. Worcs One observed at Grimley Old Workings on September 3rd.

African Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus West and central Africa. Staffs The bird which escaped at Little Madeley in August 2003 was still present into March 2004.

Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo Eurasia. Warks One found roosting in a garden at Studley on January 18th.

Black-rumped Waxbill Estrilda troglodytes Africa. Worcs Two noted in a Kidderminster garden from April 29th-May 10th

Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata Australia. Common cage-bird. Warks A white bird was at Fenny Compton on May 15th.

193 Ringing in 2004

A.E. Coleman Ringing Secretary

This report is based on data from 24 species of bird and illustrates several important facets of ornithology. For many years most ringing simply involved the use of small light individually engraved metal rings to confer individuality on birds. The recognition of birds as individuals is enormously important because it enables ornithologists to determine accurately their movements, productivity and longevity. Also weighing individuals and taking a wing measure enables an assessment of the range of variability within a population to be made.

Metal rings are small and their inscription cannot normally be read in the field, consequently the birds have to be re-caught before a positive identification can be made. However the use of light plastic individually engraved colour rings, which can be more easily read in the field using binoculars/telescopes, has revolutionised our ability to identify birds without having to re-catch them and many studies, particularly of larger birds, have benefited from this technique. Sightings of colour-ringed swans, geese, terns and gulls figure prominently in these notes and the Black-tailed Godwit is a classic example of how important colour ringing can be to the ornithologist.

The report also contains some remarkable examples of longevity records. Generally speaking the larger the bird the longer its potential life span and our report shows Mute Swans in their 12th, 13th and 16th year of life, a Common Tern in its seventh year, a Black- headed Gull 17 years old and a Robin six years of age.

Long distance movements always excite and the report shows Eurasian Wigeon ringed in the Midlands moving over 4000 kilometres to their breeding grounds in Russia, and Black- headed Gulls making journeys of over 1000 kilometres from their natal sites in Scandinavia, appearing at Westport Lake in the Potteries. The report also shows a Sand Martin ringed in the Senegal, caught at Cornets End in the West Midlands and a Goldcrest making an extraordinary movement of 147 kilometres from the Wirral into Worcestershire.

There are also examples of site fidelity with a Robin caught in the same roosting site at Sandon in Staffordshire on three occasions between November 1998 and November 2004 and a Barn Swallow returning from Africa to within six kilometres of where it was originally ringed.

Intriguing records also occur like the Blue Tit hatched in Bourne Wood in Lincolnshire and recovered later in the same year at Blithfield, while a juvenile Blue Tit ringed at Sutton Coldfield in January turned up in the very same Bourne Wood at the start of the breeding season. Is this a coincidence?

And finally, just to show how bizarre some recoveries can be, an adult female Eurasian Wigeon, ringed at Bredons Hardwick on the 8th of February 2003 was “recovered” just before Christmas – the 19th of December to be precise – in Karlstad, Sweden, 1276 kilometres from the ringing site. Only the ring was found – in a Post Office machine – hardly posting early for Christmas!

194 I am most grateful to the Ringing Secretaries of the Mercian and Wychavon Ringing Groups, Dave Clifton, Phil Ireland, Andy Lawrence and Bill Low for sending in the records on which this Annual Ringing Report is based.

Selected List of Recoveries involving the WMBC Area Entries are arranged by species and, within species, by recovery date. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 2004 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100 kilometres are included. Treatment of movements of less than 100 kilometres depends on the species involved.

Key

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

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

Mute Swan U5928 1Y 17-09-94 Lower Moor (Worcs) WRG vv 25-01-04 Gosport (Hamps) 162 kms

U1206 Pull 24-07-91 Tamworth (Staffs) AEC VV 07-02-04 Gosport (Hamps) 211 kms

Z73560 Fg 15-05-91 Tewksbury (Glos) WRG x 03-06-04 Bredon (Worcs) 5 kms

Z64694 Pull 02-08-88 Stubbers Green (WMids) AEC x 12-09-04 Leigh Sinton (Worcs) 59 kms

ZZ2242 1Y 24-11-02 Chasewater (Staffs) AEC vv 11-10-03 Bolton (Gtr Manchester) 103 kms vv 27-12-04 Bolton (Gtr Manchester) 103 kms

Canada Goose 5211627 Pull 06-07-99 Isle of Tiree, Strathclyde (Scotland) AJL v 26-06-04 Tamworth (Staffs) 545 kms

Greylag Goose 5226845 Juv F 08-12-02 Isle of Tiree, Strathclyde (Scotland) AJL

195 v 26-06-04 Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) 550 kms

5211242 Ad M 24-06-00 Drayton Manor Park (Staffs) C and C vv 15-07-04 Milton Keynes (Bucks) 92 kms

Eurasian Wigeon FP39187 Juv F 16-02-03 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 28-01-04 Quillebeuf-sur-Seine, Eure (France) 304 kms

FS31207 Ad M 12-02-00 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG x 15-02-04 Nr Morecombe Bay (Cumbria) 251 kms

FS31409 Juv M 24-02-02 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG x 30-03-04 Panino, Lipetsk, USSR 2844 kms

FP68075 Ad M 29-02-04 Brerdons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG x 12-04-04 Lyamino, Khanty-Mansi, USSR 4603 kms

FP68069 Juv M 29-02-04 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 15-05-04 Nyagan, Khanty-Mansi, USSR 4201 kms

FA96792 Ad M 06-01-01 Blithfield Reservoir (Staffs) MRG 25-05-04 Yamel-Nenets, USSR 4239 kms

FS31451 Ad M 02-02-02 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 31-05-04 Norilsk, Taymyr, USSR 5150 kms

FS31378 Juv M 18-02-01 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 08-07-04 Priuralskiy, Yamel Nenets, USSR 4218 kms

FP68114 Ad M 29-02-04 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 21-08-04 Vologda, USSR 2746 Kms

FP35739 Juv F 15-02-03 Blithfield Reservoir (Staffs) MRG + 06-09-04 Nizhniy Odes, Komi Assr, USSR 3503 kms

FS31174 Juv M 12-02-00 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG + 16-10-04 Cong, Co. Mayo, Eire 507 kms

FP35724 Juv M 15-02-03 Blithfield Reservoir (Staffs) MRG + 25-11-04 Schleswig-Holstein, FR Germany 717 kms

FP68105 Ad M 29-02-04 Bredons Hardwick (Worcs) WRG v 18-12-04 North Duffield, Selby (N. Yorks) 216 kms

Black-tailed Godwit Colour ring Ad F 13-06-03 Sauoarkrokur, North Iceland vv 21-08-03 Clonakilty Bay, Co Cork, Ireland

196 vv 14-01-04 Humber Estuary (Lincs) vv 17-07-04 Tittesworth Reservoir (Staffs)

Common Tern SX60304 Pull 08-07-97 Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) MRG vv 12-08-04 Seaforth (Merseyside) 134 Kms

SX63814 Pull 29-06-99 Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) MRG vv 01-08-04 Seaforth (Merseyside) 134 kms

Black-headed Gull EN91034 1Y 17-01-87 Majors Green, Solihull (WMids) PI v 15-06-89 Ankerplaats, Vlieland, Netherlands v 26-03-93 Groningen, Arnhem, Netherlands vv 03-04-96 Molukkenpark, Arnhem, Netherlands vv 06-04-97 Stad Groningen, Arnhem, Netherlands vv 24-06-99 Griend, Arnhem, Netherlands vv 27-03-04 Stad Groningen, Arnhem, Netherlands

EG41396 Pull 16-06-01 Hamford Water, Little Oakley (Essex) SC vv 01-10-01 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 267 kms vv 30-07-02 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 267 kms vv 01-08-04 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 267 kms

6404131 Pull 14-06-03 Venan, Rynningeviken, Sweden vv 23-10-04 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 1281 kms

ST222075 Pull 21-06-02 Lehtimaki, Vaasa, Finland vv 07-02-03 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 1880 kms vv 04-11-04 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 1880 kms

6129894 Pull 10-06-02 Stein, Ringsaker, Hedmark, Norway vv 10-01-03 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 1171 kms vv 03-12-04 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 1171 kms

EL36907 Pull 13-06-04 Upper Barden Reservoir (NYorks) EDRG vv 13-12-04 Westport Lake, Stoke (Staffs) 107 kms

Lesser Black-backed Gull 4240788 Pull 03-07-02 Rauna, Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway vv 16-06-03 Hempsted, Gloucester (Glos) vv 19-07-03 Hempsted, Gloucester (Glos) vv 27-08-04 Frankley Reservoir (WMids)

Barn Owl GJ21093 Pull 10-07-03 Kingsbury Water Park (Warks) MRG x 24-01-04 Huncote (Leics) 31 kms

197 Tawny Owl GP76228 Pull 28-04-03 Alfrick Pound, Great Malvern (Worcs) WRG x 30-03-04 Merryhill Wood, Mansel Lacy (Worcs) 32 kms

Sand Martin 3777803 Ad 23-01-91 Parc National du Djoudj, Senegal v 21-07-91 Cornets End, WMids

R211344 Juv 29-06-03 Cornets End (W Mids) PI v 16-08-03 Le Massereau,Loire-Atlantique, France

R570122 Juv 04-09-03 Icklesham (Sussex) RBRG v 18-07-04 Cornets End, WMids 233 kms

Barn Swallow R043404 Pull 31-07-02 Bringsty Common, Bromyard (Worcs) SGD v 13-06-04 Alfrick Pound, Great Malvern (Worcs) 6 kms

Robin N693279 Juv 14-11-98 Sandon (Staffs) DC v 04-11-00 Sandon (Staffs) 0 kms v 27-11-04 Sandon (Staffs) 0 kms

Blackbird RP50987 Ad M 13-03-04 Norton, Nr Stourbridge (WMids) BS and M ? 11-07-04 Sekse, Hordaland, Norway 1023 kms

RC69964 Ad M 03-12-02 Sutton Park (W Mids) MRG v 20-10-04 Fife Ness (Scotland) 414 kms

Fieldfare CT23873 Ad M 10-01-03 Suckley (Worcs) SB + 20-01-04 Estremadura, Portugal 1435 kms

CT23518 Ad M 10-01-03 Suckley (Worcs) SB + 01-01-04 Lot-et-Garonne, France 911 kms

Redwing 1 Y 17-02-02 Sandon (Staffs) JC v 25-01-04 Estremadura, Portugal 1540 kms

Reed Warbler N436703 Juv 28-07-99 Holme Pierrepont (Notts) SNRG v 21-08-03 Grimley (Worcs) 112 kms

P212211 Juv 18-08-00 Betley Mere (Staffs) JAL v 24-04-04 Drakelow (Derbys) 55 kms

198 P365218 Ad 24-08-03 Grimley (Worcs) WRG v 18-07-04 Oakley (Worcs) 6 kms

R569708 Juv 13-09-03 Icklesham (Sussex) RBRG v 25-07-04 Grimley (Worcs) 251 kms

P365610 Ad M 23-06-01 Upton Watten, Droitwich (Worcs) WRG v 13-08-04 Grimley, Worcs 13 kms

Goldcrest ACT136 Juv F 29-03-03 Hilbre Island, Wirrel (Merseyside) HBO v 15-10-04 Alfrick Pound (Worcs) 147 kms

Pied Flycatcher N774514 Pull 09-06-00 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush (Worcs) WRG v 27-05-04 Nr St Briavels Common (Glos) 42 kms

R026264 Pull 06-06-02 Nagshead, Parkend (Glos) SVRG v 03-06-04 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush (Worcs) 34 kms

P365778 Pull 11-06-01 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush (Worcs) WRG v 06-06-03 Wyre Forest, Nr Bewdley (Worcs) 39 kms v 10-06-04 Wyre Forest, Nr Bewdley (Worcs) 39 kms

Long-tailed Tit 4M8807 Juv 24-08-03 Grimley (Worcs) WRG x 19-04-04 Newtown, Nr Hereford 28 kms

Blue Tit TO71286 Pull 25-05-04 Bourne Wood (Lincs) v 11-10-04 Blithfield Reservoir (Staffs) 103 kms

R117013 Juv F 25-01-03 Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield (WMids) MRG v 13-03-03 Bourne Wood (Lincs) 101 kms

Chaffinch N697857 Juv F 03-01-00 Halesowen, WMids C and C v 30-05-04 Warsop, Notts 107 kms

Siskin R116357 Ad M 26-02-03 Walsall, WMids MRG v 13-02-04 West Vlaanderen, Belgium 419 kms

R60089 Juv F 28-03-04 Ravenshil Wood, Alfrick, Worcs WRG v 06-05-04 Ballchraggen, Highland Region, Scotland 630 kms

199 R117658 Juv M 26-02-04 Sutton Coldfield, WMids MRG v 13-04-04 Ballchraggan, Highland Region, Scotland 591 kms

R117561 Juv M 26-02-04 Sutton Coldfield, WMids MRG x 09-06-04 Wooler, Northumberland 328 kms

Reed Bunting R203901 Juv M 06-11-03 Kemerton (Worcs) WRG v 27-03-04 Barton (Lancs) 183 kms

Key to Contributors to the Ringing Report

AEC A.E.Coleman AJL A.J.Leitch BS and M Bache, Shearwood and McShane C and C Coleman and Coleman DC Dave Clifton EDRG East Dales Ringing Group HBO Hilbre Island Bird Observatory JAL Andy Lawrence MRG Mercian Ringing Group PI Philip Ireland RBRG Rye Bay Ringing Group SB Stuart Brown SC S.Cox SD Steve Dodd SNRG South Notts Ringing Group SVRG Severn Vale Ringing Group WRG Wychavon Ringing Group

Also: Eric Platt for sending in the record of the Black-tailed Godwit. Bill Low for sending in details of gulls sighted at Westport Lake. Pete Bache for sending the record of the Redwing ringed at Sandon by the late John Cameron.

200 Black-headed Bunting in Nuneaton – a first for the region

Steve Seal

At around 8:05 pm on the evening of Monday May 31st 2004 I received a phone call from Steve Whitehouse asking me to check out a report of a Black-headed Bunting in a private garden in Nuneaton. After around five minutes Steve rang back with permission for me to go round and with directions of where to go.

I was off and, at around 8:20 pm, I was greeted at the door by Colin and Ann McClure, who quickly led me through to their kitchen window which overlooked a small feeding station in their back garden. I was told that the bird had just departed with Green- finches over the back fence into the adjoining allot- ments. I noticed a field guide open on the sink worktop onto the page for Black-headed Bunting. Black-headed Bunting, Steve Seal Ann pointed to the book and replied “that’s it there!”. The time went by, Greenfinches came and went, Chaffinches came and went; it was now around 8:45 pm and the light was starting to go. Suddenly Ann said that it was back – total panic – “where! where!” “In the Silver Birch; where?”

Suddenly, whow! – onto the bird table came a flash of yellow. Before me, some 25 feet away, was a fine summer-plumaged male Black-headed Bunting. My video camera was already at my side and within seconds I was filming it through the kitchen window. I checked for the presence of rings, tail damage or missing head feathers, but all appeared to be OK. After filming for about two minutes the bird flew back into the birch tree, looked around for a few seconds and then dropped back over the fence and into the allotments.

A quick call was made back to Steve Whitehouse to let him know what I had just witnessed, and words which are unrepeatable came back over the phone! After a discussion with Colin and Ann, we got permission for Steve and myself to return at first light to see if the bird had stayed overnight. Permission was also given for Steve to break the news to Birdline and access granted for other birders to come and hopefully see the bunting. We stayed for more than four hours the following morning, but unfortunately the bird could not be relocated.

I would like to thank Colin and Ann McClure for allowing us onto their property at such short notice.

201 Description The bird was a little larger than a Chaffinch, with a completely black hood and all-yellow under-parts, including breast, flanks and under-tail coverts. The hind neck was also yellow, bordering a chestnut mantle and back. The rump was rufous, tinted with yellow. The longish tail was also tinted with rufous, with no white on the outer tail feathers. The bill was slate-grey and typically bunting-like in shape. The legs were pinkish-flesh. No rings, tail-wear or loose feathers on the head were observed. Overall, it looked in very good condition and was very alert. It was filmed for two minutes while feeding, and stills were taken.

Broad-billed Sandpiper at Drayton Bassett Pits – a first for Staffordshire

John Harris

Broad-billed Sandpiper, Drayton Bassett Pits, John Harris

On June 7th 2004 between 5:15 and 6:00 pm I was at Drayton Bassett Pits with my binoculars only, believing that most of the passage waders had passed through and giving my shoulders a rest from carrying tripod and scope. I looked at Fishers Mill area for the drake Bufflehead but it was not present so, with the gravel belt still running, I went down the river heading towards the North Pit. I went around the North Pit and approached it from the gravel belt side which had now been switched off. The sun was in a favourable position behind me; I looked across the gravel islands and on a distant island I noticed two waders facing each other, both of which I recognised as not common waders.

202 One was larger than a Dunlin with a red tinge the other was Dunlin size and had a brown back but with no black belly. I then phoned Steven Cawthray who is usually instantly available due to the nature of his job, he told me that a Curlew Sandpiper had been reported and that Tom Perrins had visited the site and had seen a Curlew Sandpiper and three Dunlin. At this point I did not mention the smaller bird and decided to double check, after the phone call.

I studied the bird again through my binoculars. It did not have a black belly and had a noticeable supercilium. I knew it was not a Little Stint. I started thinking back to 23rd May 2002 when, in the company of Mark Priest, he spotted a Least Sandpiper on the North Pit. The back of this new bird had a snipe-like appearance and a good supercilium like a Least Sandpiper. I thought it not possible that two Least Sandpipers could land on this small gravel pit. Another bird that came to mind was a Broad-billed Sandpiper which I had been lucky enough to observe in the past at Cley in Norfolk.

I then re-called SC and asked him if he could get somebody up to the gravel pits to have a look at this other Dunlin-sized bird with a brown back and no black belly. He asked about the leg colour; my reply was that I did not have a telescope. All I could do was wait and notice the location where the bird moved to.

Shortly afterwards I could see a man walking down the track to the North pit carrying a telescope, I waved him on. I noticed the wader moving into view, I pointed it out to him, and I asked if the bird had two stripes over its eyes, he said “yes”, I then looked through his scope to confirm.

I then phoned SC and said the bird was a Broad-billed Sandpiper because it had two stripes over its eyes. He then checked on the finer points; the longish and down curved bill, the whitish belly, brownish markings on upper chest and the pale legs.

I then decided to contact the birdlines and reported the bird as Broad-billed Sandpiper. The next person to arrive was Steve Haynes who confirmed that the identity of the bird. Subsequently a steady stream of visitors managed to see the bird. I met Brian Kington who congratulated me on finding a first for Staffordshire. I did my usual tour of Drayton Bassett Pits on the Friday the Broad-billed Sandpiper was still there and a smaller crowd of people present. I believe it was not seen again after Friday evening.

203 Dartford Warbler on Cannock Chase – first record for 100 years

Andrew and Angela Goodwin

Dartford Warbler, Cannock Chase, Mark Priest

Early morning of April 11th 2004 found us at our local patch; Sandbach Flashes. Bored, we decided to do something different and, with the chance of hearing Wood Lark, we decided to visit Cannock Chase. Arriving quite late at 10.30am we immediately heard and saw a Wood Lark and we decided on a long hike around the heath. My wife noticed an unusual bird on top of a small gorse bush and called me over in time to see a small grey, long-tailed bird climbing down into the centre of the bush. The bird then flew to the right to show a tiny, slim warbler with a long thin tail. Its plumage was ashy-grey above and it had a weak, but fast, flight on short, rounded wings with its tail showing a rounded tip. It flew low across the heath with its tail dangling behind and waggling up and down and side to side. It darted into a heather clump revealing a thin white outer web to its outer tail feathers.

In total shock we realised that it was either a Marmora’s or a Dartford Warbler. I hadn’t seen Subalpine Warbler for many years but it was the wrong shape and the tail was too long. Although there were no other warblers to compare it with, it was obviously much smaller than a Common Whitethroat. It shot out of the heather, giving close flight views during which time I could see that although overall grey in colour, the upperparts were

204 tinged brown on the mantle and wings. I asked my wife what she saw and she said that it had a red breast with a white streak up the middle and had a “cocky-up” tail. That confirmed that we had just seen a Dartford Warbler!

We checked over the area during the next hour but failed to relocate it. Returning home I rang Bill Low to inform him and asked if Dartfords were breeding on the Chase. He told me that it would be the first record for Staffordshire for 100 years! Fearing rejection of our record because of the brief, but good views, we thought long and hard about submitting it. Subsequent events have proved us right!

205 Observations and Migration in the Apedale area

Steven J. Turner and Nick Pomiankowski

Lying on the western edge of Newcastle-under-Lyme, the Apedale area has a long industrial history, being mined for coal, clay, and iron. The inevitable scars from this activity have now largely healed under a scab of Alder plantations and open grassland, which are complemented by a variety of other habitats including open water, oak woodland and even reed beds.

206 There are three principal birding areas: • Apedale Country Park – officially opened in 1998, this area is composed of Alder plantations, rough/marshy grassland, small pools, and mixed broadleaved woodland. • Black Bank – this area of boggy grassland, strips of Alder ‘set-aside’, and old Hawthorn hedgerows, is much more open and less disturbed than Apedale CP. • ‘The Void’, Silverdale Colliery – this is basically a steep sided, man-made crater, with scattered patches of Gorse and Broom scrub, and represents the remnants of the former colliery coal wash pools. These areas have been visited sporadically since the mid 1990s but, since 1999, a few devoted patch workers have covered the area more intensively, recording a surprising number and variety of species.

The “Void”, Nick Pomiankowski

Spring Migration Wheatears are a typical visitor to more open areas, with an impressive maximum count of 31 in April 1997. A few Whinchats also appear later in the season.

The hanging oak woodland of Watermills Wood in Apedale CP attracts all of the expected commoner warbler species including a couple of Wood Warblers in the past. Once, a male Pied Flycatcher held territory here for a few weeks in May 2003, but unfortunately failed to attract a mate.

207 Wader passage on the pools in The Void is generally unremarkable, with just a trickle of Dunlin and Common Sandpiper, although Sanderling has been recorded along with Greenshank and Green Sandpiper. Little Ringed Plover is also a regular visitor here and, despite constant disturbance from dog walkers and moped riders, up to three pairs manage to stay and breed.

The top grassy plateau of Apedale CP has proved attractive to a few Whimbrel passing through during May, although it remains to be seen if the current management of this grassland continues the trend.

Quality migrants at this time of year have included Rough-legged Buzzard, Osprey, Quail, Lapland Bunting, Scandinavian-type Chiffchaff, Ring Ouzel, and Turtle Dove. The latter species is now incredibly scarce in north Staffordshire.

Summer Of the breeding species, Skylark has something of a local stronghold and residents include Tawny Owl, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Little Owl and Willow Tit (two – three pairs). Further variety is added by the small reed beds at Burley Pools where Little Grebe, Kingfisher and Reed Bunting are all present. Occasionally a pair of Sedge Warblers will set up a territory.

Notable summer visitors include Reed Warbler (nine pairs at the Burley reed beds probably represents the largest colony in the Stoke-on-Trent conurbation) and, in recent years Grasshopper Warbler, with two to three reeling birds attracted to the damp and scrubbier areas, principally on Silverdale Colliery. Hobby is also occasionally recorded hunting over the area.

The Apedale area is also very rewarding for the all-round naturalist, hosting a nationally important colony of Great-crested Newt, plus Smooth Newt, Grass Snake and huge numbers of Common Toad. Many species of dragonfly have been recorded, Purple Hairstreak butterflies can be found in Watermills Wood by searching the tops of oak trees during sunny days and Dingy Skippers inhabit the grasslands in and around Great Row and Miry Wood.

Obviously summer is not the best for observing migration but, by late June, there is a small Curlew roost on Silverdale Colliery and by mid-July small flocks of large gulls also begin to gather there. These flocks are predominantly composed of Lesser Black-backed Gulls, but usually contain one or two Yellow-legged Gulls.

Other summer oddities to be recorded in the area have included Common Scoter, Common Tern, Little Egret and Goshawk.

Autumn Migration With its height and panoramic views over Stoke-on-Trent to the east and the Cheshire plain to the west, Black Bank is an ideal spot to observe visible migration and this phenomenon is a feature of the area from late August through to early November.

The maze of Hawthorn hedgerows at the base of Black Bank are worth searching for passerine migrants such as Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher, and Lesser Whitethroat; even

208 Reed and Sedge Warblers have been found in this unlikely habitat. Whinchats and Stonechats can also be found here along with small falls of Song Thrushes, Blackbirds and Redwings. The pools at The Void, Silverdale Colliery are again unremarkable for wader passage although Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit have been noted.

Regular coverage at this time of year has unearthed some real gems, including a group of three Ring-necked Ducks, two records of Richard’s Pipit and Snow Bunting, plus other goodies such as Hen Harrier and Greenland Wheatear.

Black Bank looking towards Newcastle, Nick Pomiankowski

Visible Migration Over the period 2000-2005, a reasonable number of autumn migration watches have taken place. Whilst the majority of birds migrate by night, some do so by day and many continue their nocturnal migrations into the early hours of the morning. The majority of observations described below took place in the first two hours after dawn. The spectacle of a mass migration of birds is something which is rarely discussed in the birding literature, unless at a well known gathering spot such as Gibraltar or Portland Bill, but even an unassuming spot in middle England has produced some truly spectacular movements and variety of birds (accompanied by some equally impressive sunrises!) which the formal summary below does little to convey. It is hoped that other recorders will be encouraged to take up this under-rated but extremely rewarding aspect of birdwatching so that a better

209 picture of passage across the region can be obtained. The best days to undertake migration watches are on clear days with winds having a northerly element, especially if they immediately follow a few days of damp southerlies.

The charts below have been compiled over the six years 2000-2005 and show the best day counts obtained during this period of time.

Wood Pigeon On migration, the Wood Pigeon goes from being a somewhat commonplace and uninteresting bird into the major performer. By far the largest numbers of any single bird on passage have been Wood Pigeons, with the highest counts being 4740 south on October 26th 2004 followed by 4800 north-east as a result of a warm front, on November 22nd 2004. Wood Pigeons appear to migrate by day, numbers picking up usually within half- hour after dawn and individual flocks can number as many as 450. Birds can be seen during October and November with mid to late November movements north or south according to warm or cold weather conditions. From the chart below, there appears to be no defined peak period of passage so it is likely that prevailing weather conditions are the primary factor here.

Date Highest Total Counted Highest Hourly Rate Direction 02-Oct 157 80 S 05-Oct 1540 700 S 09-Oct 80 40 S 11-Oct 2210 1100 S 13-Oct 2600 2200 S 14-Oct 1500 1500 S 16-Oct 150 100 S 18-Oct 119 120 S 24-Oct 490 1000 S 25-Oct 525 260 S 26-Oct 4740 2400 S 30-Oct 1540 720 S 31-Oct 2000 1000 S 01-Nov 520 520 S 02-Nov 1200 1000 S 03-Nov 650 650 S 04-Nov 400 300 S 05-Nov 1300 1000 S 07-Nov 1200 1000 S 09-Nov 900 900 S 13-Nov 2550 2000 S 14-Nov 3600 1800 S 16-Nov 530 350 N 22-Nov 4800 3800 NE 27-Nov 1850 1200 E 29-Nov 2000 1400 S

210 Sand Martin Just three singles, south on 29th August 2004, west on 3rd September 2004 and south on 18th September 2004.

Barn Swallow The Swallow is a bird which appears to be perfectly happy migrating in daylight. Birds passing through can continue from early morning until well past midday. The bulk of migration occurs in mid-September with peak counts between 14th and 24th. By far the largest migration took place on 24th September 2005 when an estimated minimum of 2500 birds headed south. From October onwards there are smaller groups of late departures, the latest of which was on 19th October 2002.

Date Highest Hourly Rate Highest Total Direction 14-Sep 150 SW 18-Sep 40 S 19-Sep 60 S 21-Sep 300 SE 24-Sep 800 S 26-Sep 13 S 28-Sep 21 S 29-Sep 55 S 02-Oct 250 S 06-Oct 30 S 08-Oct 9 W 09-Oct 13 S 10-Oct 1 SE 11-Oct 7 S 12-Oct 3 S 13-Oct 2 W 19-Oct 1 S

House Martin Unlike Swallows, Martins rarely move during daylight hours. Only four records of two- three birds have been made, these all occurring between September 21st and 29th.

Tree Pipit Passage birds have turned up from as early as August 16th through to a very late bird on 9-10th October 2005. Fly-overs though have been few, with three on August 19th 2005, three on September 1st 2003 and one on September 27th 2003.

Meadow Pipit One of the star performers, Meadow Pipits start building up in the fields around Black Bank and Silverdale Colliery from late August, most having moved on by early November. The peak period of passage occurs from late September into early October and because these birds continue flying through until at least mid-day, the hourly rates can be trebled to give an estimate of total birds through. Included for comparison in the table are counts of grounded birds – clearly this bird moves both by night and by day.

211 Date Highest Hourly Rate Highest Grounded Birds Count 23-Aug 70 2-Sep 110 4-Sep 35 9-Sep 120 10-Sep 80 13-Sep 140 15-Sep 45 16-Sep 230 18-Sep 135 19-Sep 90 20-Sep 220 21-Sep 250 350 23-Sep 400 250 24-Sep 350 26-Sep 200 27-Sep 225 28-Sep 50 1-Oct 550 2-Oct 300 3-Oct 220 4-Oct 80 5-Oct 30 120 8-Oct 310 9-Oct 125 105 11-Oct 50 12-Oct 40 13-Oct 60 14-Oct 225 16-Oct 40 20-Oct 20 26-Oct 50 29-Oct 60 7-Nov 10 10-Nov 40

Pied Wagtail Small numbers have been observed on southerly passage between September 26th and October 16th usually at the rate of 6-8 per hour, the best count being 38 in two hours on October 9th 2005.

Fieldfare Fieldfares (table opposite) head south slightly later than Redwings, the earliest being 47 on October 5th 2004, the latest 150 on November 5th 2005, peaking in late October after the Redwing peak mid-month. As with Redwings, the majority of Fieldfares pass over heading south indicating landfall further north, although five west on October 9th 2004 and 150

212 west on November 2nd 2005 show that occasionally Fieldfare birds do head west from their point of landfall on the east coast. Date Highest Total 5-Oct 47 9-Oct 5 (W) Song Thrush 15-Oct 2 Principally a nocturnal migrant, just two daytime 16-Oct 40 groups have been recorded, three on October 11th 17-Oct 1 20-Oct 20 2003 and nine on October 16th 2005. 24-Oct 5 25-Oct 115 Redwing 26-Oct 650 The earliest migrants; five passing south on October 27-Oct 25 30-Oct 380 2nd 2004 and the latest; 270 on October 30th 2004. 31-Oct 330 Typically, smaller numbers in early October build up 2-Nov 2 to peak passage mid-month with some tailing off 3-Nov 150 towards the month’s end. The vast majority of birds 5-Nov 150 (W) head south, indicating landfall much further north Redwing followed by inland dispersal. On October 9th 2004, however, coinciding with a massive east coast Date Highest Total landfall, 98 passed through west in an hour in the 02-Oct 5 early morning, followed by the largest recorded 09-Oct 98 (W) 10-Oct 2000 (W) passage the following day when 2000 flew west in 11-Oct 19 just one hour. Unusually these birds followed each 12-Oct 19 other on the same, very narrow flight path, unlike 13-Oct 35 typical migrations which occur on a broad front. 14-Oct 185 16-Oct 500 18-Oct 400 Eurasian Jay 24-Oct 127 Five birds were observed flying south on 9th October 26-Oct 257 27-Oct 136 2005. Flying high over Watermills in Apedale CP, 30-Oct 270 they headed south for a couple of miles before disappearing from view. Whilst this bird is known for autumn dispersal and wintering in the UK from the continent, we have found no previous records of Eurasian Jays on visible migration in Staffordshire, although an influx of ten birds at Belvide in 1993 was said to be indicative of real migration.

Raven With the rapidly increasing numbers in recent years, it is pleasing to report the first signs of visible migration on 16th November 2005 when four flew east. These birds were probably also observed at Westport Lake where 10 were counted passing in the same direction on the same day.

Starling The vast majority of these birds appear to migrate by night. Only one significant record occurred on 13th November 2004 when a thin but extremely wide line of c.3000 birds flew through heading west at 7.30am, “like a giant Etch-a-sketch eraser across the landscape”. With no major roost sites nearby, it was assumed these birds were migrants.

Chaffinch Chaffinch passage is a widespread affair, starting mid-September and continuing to the end

213 of October, but with unremarkable numbers. Nevertheless, if birds are on the move, you can be sure some of them will be Chaffinches. The highest hourly rate was 50; the highest day count 90.

Brambling Small numbers of this continental winter visitor have been recorded heading south during a short period in late October, from 13th – 31st. The highest count was 10 on 26th October 2005.

Greenfinch As with Chaffinch, if birds are on the move, some Greenfinches will often be amongst them, but numbers are usually no more than a couple of dozen at best. Earliest was 14 south on September 19th 2004, latest and also the largest count was 92 south on October 31st 2005.

Goldfinch Very infrequent on southerly passage. Records include 57 on October 9th 2005, 31 on October 11th 2003 and 60 on November 3rd 2002.

Siskin Siskins pass through in small numbers over a wide period of time, the earliest and latest dates being 2nd September and 22nd November, with late September through late October being the principal period. The highest count was 19 on 22nd November 2002.

Linnet Single figure numbers occasionally fly over during late September, early October, the largest flock being 17 on 9th October 2005.

Lesser Redpoll Birds are seen and heard flying over quite regularly during late September well into November but never in sufficient numbers to determine whether they are flying out from roost or really on passage, especially given the quantity of Alder plantations in the area.

Common Crossbill Four quite widely spaced records, demonstrating that this bird can turn up at any time. All were heading in a southerly direction. Two on 10th August 2002, four on 2nd October 2005, two on 26th October 2005 and one on 14th November 2004.

Snow Bunting A migration watch highlight, one flew over calling on 11th October 2003.

Winter Visitors The mature Alder plantations are very attractive to Siskin, Goldfinch, and Lesser Redpoll; flocks often reach triple figures and have held Common (Mealy) Redpoll on more than one occasion. The plantations also provide cover for small numbers of Woodcock. Bullfinch is another finch that can be present in surprising numbers, with as many as 14 recorded together in the thick hedgerows on Black Bank.

214 Five species of owl have been recorded, with Short-eared particularly favouring the open grassy fields of Black Bank. Snipe also favour these fields and can number over 100, often accompanied by one or two Jack Snipe. Peak numbers occur in November before winter frosts drive them elsewhere.

The feeding station at Watermills Wood is worth a visit for excellent comparative views of Willow and Marsh Tit, as well as Nuthatch and Bullfinch.

Even on the quietest of days in the depths of winter, there will at least be a Stonechat or two around to brighten things up, and there can be up to four pairs roaming around the Apedale area. Failing that there is always the likelihood of a flyover Raven or flock of Golden Plovers.

When Pink-footed Geese are on the move between Norfolk and Lancashire, Apedale is an ideal spot to try and pick up some skeins; in January 2005 over 1000 were observed flying WNW in 45 minutes! The small lake at Silverdale Colliery holds only very small numbers of common wildfowl, with records of Whooper Swan, Pintail and Scaup being the most notable.

Every year seems to manage to turn up something new, and the Apedale list now stands at 157 – we wonder what future years will bring . . .!

March 2006

Acknowledgements: Thanks are due to Andy Lawrence for designing and drawing the map of the area and to Bill Low for a personal comment about Ravens passing through Westport Lake.

215 County Lists

The following tables show all species in categories A to C of The British List that have been reliably recorded in the area covered by the current boundaries of the four counties of the Region since records were kept. The regional total as at December 31st 2004 was 341. The year shown is the latest in which the species has been observed in each county while nk refers to reliable, but undated, 19th century records. Subspecies or races are shown in italics and they, along with known escapes, are not included in the totals.

Details The Details column is used to indicate for which species a description or supporting details are required As the status of each species is not necessarily the same across the four counties, a description or supporting details may be required for some counties but not for others The level of detail required will, of course, vary with the species concerned; some requiring only a brief sentence while other, rarer species, more detailed notes However, if the bird you are claiming is unfamiliar to you, or you are unsure of its identity, then don’t be afraid to send in a description – even if it is not requested.

The following abbreviations are used: BBRC A full description is required by British Birds Rarities Committee. A A description or supporting details required for ALL counties. St, Wa, Wo, WM A description or supporting details required for Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and West Midlands respectively.

Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Mute Swan Cygnus olor 2004 2004 2004 2004 Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus St 2004 2004 2004 2003 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2003 Bean Goose Anser fabalis A 2004 1999 2004 0 Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Greylag Goose Anser anser 2004 2004 2004 2004 Canada Goose Branta canadensis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Brent Goose Branta bernicla A 2004 2000 2003 2003 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 1999 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna 2004 2004 2004 2004 Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata 2004 2004 2004 2004 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope 2004 2004 2004 2004 American Wigeon Anas americana A 2002 0 1998 0 Gadwall Anas strepera 2004 2004 2004 2004 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca 2004 2004 2004 2004 Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis A 2004 2004 2002 0 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 2004 2004 2004 2004 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 2004 2004 2004 2004 Garganey Anas querquedula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Blue-winged Teal Anas discors BBRC 1989 1989 2001 0 Shoveler Anas clypeata 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 2004 2004 2004 2004 Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris A 2004 2002 1977 2001 Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca A 2001 2002 2004 1998 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Greater Scaup Aythya marila 2004 2003 2004 2003

216 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis BBRC 0 0 1987 0 Common Eider Somateria mollissima A 1993 2001 2002 1993 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis A 2004 2003 2004 2004 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata A 1986 2000 0 0 Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca A 2004 1985 2004 1994 Bufflehead Bucephala albeola BBRC 2004 0 2004 2004 Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Smew Mergellus albellus Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator A 2004 2004 2004 2001 Goosander Mergus merganser 2004 2004 2004 2004 Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Wo, Wa, WM 0 0 2004 1868 Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix A 0 1915 2003 1897 Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa 2004 2004 2004 2004 Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix A 2004 2003 2004 2004 Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata A 2003 1997 2001 2001 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica A 2002 1995 2000 1997 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A 2004 2004 2003 2003 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A 2003 1996 2004 1996 Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus A 2004 2002 2004 2003 Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2003 Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis A 2004 2000 1993 1996 Coryʼs Shearwater Calonectris diomedea A 0 0 1971 0 Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus A 2004 2003 2004 2004 European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus A 1983 2003 1990 1970 Leachʼs Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa A 2003 1997 1989 2002 Northern Gannet Morus bassanus A 2004 2004 2003 1991 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 2004 2004 2004 2004 Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A 2004 2004 2000 1998 Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris A 2004 2004 2004 1995 Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus BBRC 1981 1865 1901 <1836 Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax A 2001 1983 2000 2004 Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides BBRC 0 0 2004 0 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis BBRC 1994 1993 1987 0 Little Egret Egretta garzetta WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great White Egret Ardea alba A 2000 1999 2003 2002 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2004 2004 2004 2004 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea A 1990 2000 1994 0 Black Stork Ciconia nigra BBRC 0 1956 1985 0 White Stork Ciconia ciconia A 2004 2002 2002 1986 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus BBRC 0 0 1840 0 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia A 2002 2001 2003 2002 Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Black Kite Milvus migrans A 0 1986 1991 2004 Red Kite Milvus milvus A 2004 2004 2004 2004 White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla A 1891 1945 1905 0 Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A 2004 2003 2004 1997 Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus A 2003 1995 2000 1951 Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis A 2004 2004 2004 2003 Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo 2004 2004 2004 2004 Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus A 1994 1979 2001 1996 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos A 0 0 nk 0 Osprey Pandion haliaetus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004

217 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus A 2003 2001 2002 0 Merlin Falco columbarius WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Hobby Falco subbuteo 2004 2004 2004 2004 Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus BBRC 1852 0 <1844 0 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Water Rail Rallus aquaticus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Spotted Crake Porzana porzana A 2003 2002 2004 1998 Little Crake Porzana parva BBRC 1974 0 0 0 Corn Crake Crex crex A 2000 1988 1988 1965 Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Coot Fulica atra 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Crane Grus grus A 2003 2003 2003 2002 Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax BBRC 0 0 c1899 <1893 Great Bustard Otis tarda BBRC 0 c1825 0 0 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus BBRC 1987 1986 1995 0 Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta A 2003 2004 2004 1999 Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus A 2001 1996 1956 1991 Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola BBRC 1996 1994 0 0 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 2004 2004 2004 2004 Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus A 1993 1940 1995 0 Dotterel Charadrius morinellus A 2002 2003 2004 1978 American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica A 1991 0 0 0 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria 2004 2004 2004 2004 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus BBRC 1975 0 0 0 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red Knot Calidris canutus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Sanderling Calidris alba WM 2004 2004 2004 2003 Little Stint Calidris minuta WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii A 2004 2004 2003 2002 Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla BBRC 0 1988 2002 0 White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis A 0 1996 1989 0 Bairdʼs Sandpiper Calidris bairdii BBRC 1996 0 1996 0 Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos A 2002 2003 2004 2003 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea WM 2003 2004 2004 2002 Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima A 1993 1988 2000 1985 Dunlin Calidris alpina 2004 2004 2004 2004 Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus BBRC 1985 0 2004 0 Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis A 1995 0 1980 0 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 2004 2004 2004 2004 Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Snipe Gallinago media BBRC <1886 0 1954 1995 Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus BBRC 1983 1990 0 0 Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 2004 2004 2004 2004 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica WM 2004 2004 2004 2003 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 2004 2004 2004 2004 Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda BBRC 1851 0 0 0 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Wa, WM 2004 2004 2004 2003 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis BBRC 0 0 1974 0 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2004 2004 2004 2004 Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BBRC 0 0 1995 0 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004

218 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2004 2004 2004 2004 Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius BBRC 1990 0 1982 2004 Turnstone Arenaria interpres WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Wilsonʼs Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor BBRC 1996 1985 0 0 Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus A 2000 1999 2004 1893 Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius A 2001 2004 2003 2002 Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus A 1997 1999 1991 1985 Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus A 2003 1996 2004 2000 Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus A 2003 1987 2004 1991 Great Skua Stercorarius skua A 2001 2000 2003 1994 Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Franklinʼs Gull Larus pipixcan BBRC 2002 0 0 0 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla BBRC 0 1996 0 1997 Little Gull Larus minutus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Sabineʼs Gull Larus sabini A 1989 1997 2001 0 Bonaparteʼs Gull Larus philadelphia BBRC 1992 0 1996 0 Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis A 1998 2003 1999 1996 Common Gull Larus canus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Herring Gull Larus argentatus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans A 2004 2004 2004 2000 Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Kumlienʼs Gull Larus g. kumlieni A 2001 2003 1999 0 Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla 2004 2004 2004 2004 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica BBRC 1899 <1901 1989 1896 Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia BBRC 1993 1971 1999 1979 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii A 2002 1999 2002 0 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 2004 2004 2004 2004 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 2004 2004 2004 2004 Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata BBRC 0 0 1852 0 Little Tern Sternula albifrons A 2004 2003 2004 2000 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida BBRC 1987 1994 1970 0 Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2004 2004 2004 2004 White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus A 2003 2000 2003 1977 Common Guillemot Uria aalge A nk 0 1920 1980 Razorbill Alca torda A nk 1953 0 1912 Little Auk Alle alle A 2003 1998 2001 1999 Puffin Fratercula arctica A 1984 1963 1983 1999 Pallasʼs Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus BBRC 1888 1888 1908 1888 Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2004 2004 2004 2004 Stock Dove Columba oenas 2004 2004 2004 2004 Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2004 2004 2004 2004 Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur St 2004 2004 2004 2004 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri A 2004 2004 2002 2004 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Barn Owl Tyto alba 2004 2004 2004 2004 Little Owl Athene noctua 2004 2004 2004 2004 Tawny Owl Strix aluco 2004 2004 2004 2004 Long-eared Owl Asio otus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2002 Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Tengmalmʼs Owl Aegolius funereus BBRC 0 1901 0 0 European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 1998 2004 1979 White-throated Needle-tail Hirundapus caudacutus BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Common Swift Apus apus 2004 2004 2004 2004

219 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Alpine Swift Apus melba A 2003 1997 1996 1988 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 2004 2004 2004 2004 European Bee-eater Merops apiaster A 1886 1970 0 1955 European Roller Coracias garrulus BBRC 0 0 1908 0 Hoopoe Upupa epops A 2004 2003 2004 2002 Wryneck Jynx torquilla A 2003 2004 2003 2004 Green Woodpecker Picus viridis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major 2004 2004 2004 2004 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 2004 2004 2004 2004 Wood Lark Lullula arborea A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris A 1994 2003 2002 1997 Sand Martin Riparia riparia 2004 2004 2004 2004 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica A 2004 2001 2004 0 House Martin Delichon urbicum 2004 2004 2004 2004 Richardʼs Pipit Anthus richardi A 2001 1967 2002 1994 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus A 1994 0 0 0 Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus petrosus WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus p. littoralis A 2004 1997 2004 2004 Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta A 2004 2003 2004 2004 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima 2004 2004 2004 2004 Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla f. flava A 2002 2003 2004 2001 Spanish Wagtail Motacilla f. iberiae A 0 1982 1993 0 Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla f. thunbergi A 0 0 0 1996 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola BBRC 1997 0 0 0 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 2004 2004 2004 2004 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii 2004 2004 2004 2004 White Wagtail Motacilla a. alba A (autumn) 2004 2004 2004 2004 Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Wa, Wo, WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Dipper Cinclus cinclus gularis Wa, WM 1991 2004 2004 2003 Black-bellied Dipper Cinclus c. cinclus A 1996 0 0 0 Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 2004 2004 2004 2004 Dunnock Prunella modularis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris BBRC nk 0 0 0 Robin Erithacus rubecula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos St, WM 2004 2004 1981 1979 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A 1995 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros A 2004 2003 2004 2004 Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2004 2004 2004 2004 Stonechat Saxicola torquata 2004 2004 2004 2004 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 2004 2004 2004 2004 Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe o. leucorrhoa A 2004 2004 1999 2004 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Whiteʼs Thrush Zoothera dauma BBRC 1895 0 0 0 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Wa 2004 2004 2004 2004 Blackbird Turdus merula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Dusky Thrush Turdus naumanni BBRC 0 1979 0 0 Dark-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis BBRC 0 1996 1978 0 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2004 2004 2004 2004 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2004 2004 2004 2004 Redwing Turdus iliacus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti A 2004 2004 2004 2001 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia 2004 2004 2004 2004 River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Saviʼs Warbler Locustella luscinioides A 2004 1999 1977 0

220 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola A 0 1983 0 0 Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris A 2001 1998 1996 1982 Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus BBRC 1979 0 0 0 Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina A 1997 1942 1993 0 Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta A 2000 0 1996 0 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 2004 2004 2004 2004 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 2004 2004 2004 2004 Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria A 1979 0 0 0 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata A 1914 2001 2004 0 Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis A 0 0 1993 0 Pallasʼs Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus A 2001 1987 1970 0 Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus A 1996 2003 2004 1998 Humeʼs Warbler Phylloscopus humei BBRC 0 0 1994 0 Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus BBRC 0 0 0 1996 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wa 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 2004 2004 2004 2004 Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. tristis A 2003 2002 2002 1994 Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. abietinus A 0 2004 1990 1991 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla A 2004 2004 2004 2004 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 2004 2004 2004 2004 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva A 2004 0 0 0 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Wa 2004 2004 2004 2003 Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A 2004 2004 2004 1993 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Marsh Tit Poecile palustris WM 2004 2004 2004 2004 Willow Tit Poecile montanus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Coal Tit Periparus ater 2004 2004 2004 2004 Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Great Tit Parus major 2004 2004 2004 2004 Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea 2004 2004 2004 2004 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 2004 2004 2004 2004 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus A 2004 2000 1997 1990 Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 2003 2000 1976 2003 Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor BBRC 0 1987 0 0 Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor A 2004 2003 2004 1998 Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator A 0 1893 0 1999 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius 2004 2004 2004 2004 Magpie Pica pica 2004 2004 2004 2004 Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 0 1826 0 0 Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Rook Corvus frugilegus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Carrion Crow Corvus corone 2004 2004 2004 2004 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix A 1987 1983 1994 1984 Common Raven Corvus corax 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris 2004 2004 2004 2004 Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus A 2001 2003 2001 2004 House Sparrow Passer domesticus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2004 2004 2004 2004 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 2004 2004 2004 2004 European Serin Serinus serinus A 2002 1981 2001 0 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris 2004 2004 2004 2004

221 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 2004 2004 2004 2004 Siskin Carduelis spinus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Linnet Carduelis cannabina 2004 2004 2004 2004 Twite Carduelis flavirostris A 2003 2002 2004 2003 Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 2004 2004 2004 2004 Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea A 2004 2003 2003 2004 Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni A 0 2002 1996 0 Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera BBRC 0 1838 1980 0 Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Wa, WM 2004 2004 2004 2002 Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus A 2003 0 0 0 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 2004 2004 2004 2004 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes St, Wa, WM 2002 2004 2004 2003 Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus A 1981 0 2002 1996 Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis A 2004 2004 2004 1997 Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos BBRC 0 1996 0 0 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2004 2004 2004 2004 Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus A 1959 1983 1951 1950 Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica A 0 1987 0 0 Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla A 1902 1994 1995 2003 Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus 2004 2004 2004 2004 Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala BBRC 2004 0 0 0 Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra 2004 2004 2004 2004 Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula BBRC 0 0 0 1968

Grand Total Region 341 County 304 296 309 269 Total in 2004 Region 235 County 211 192 213 174

The county totals excludes all known escapes.

Note: The records of Red and Black Grouse on the West Midlands list refer to Sutton Park which, at the time of the records, was part of Warwickshire. The 1953 record of Tawny Pipit in Staffordshire was rejected by BBRC and the species is thus removed from the list. Ruddy Shelduck has been moved to Appendix 1and therefore is removed from the list.

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

Warwickshire Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Castle Hill SP3040 Fenny Compton Hills SP4051 Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Chadshunt SP3452 Fenny Compton – Admington SP2046 Chadwick End SP2073 Oxford Canal SP4352 Alcester SP0857 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Fillongley SP2887 Alvecote Pools SK2504 Charlecote GP SP2657 Fisherʼs Mill GP SP2099 Alveston SP2356 Charlecote Park SP2656 Flecknoe SP5163 Arbury Park SP3389 Chelmscote SP3142 Forest of Arden Hotel SP2285 Arlescote SP3948 Cherington SP2936 Fulready SP2846 Arley SP2890 Chesterton Pools SP3558 Armscote SP2444 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Gaydon SP3654 Arnoldʼs Wood SP1372 Churchover SP5180 Gaydon Heath SP3555 Ash Green SP3384 Claverdon SP1964 Gaydon Tip SP3655 Ashorne SP3057 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Grandborough SP4966 Astley SP3189 Coldcomfort Wood SP0758 Great Alne SP1159 Aston Cantlow SP1359 Coleshill SP2089 Grendon SP2799 Attleborough Fields SP3890 Coleshill GP SP2090 Griff SP3588 Austrey SK2906 Coleshill STW SP1991 Guyʼs Cliffe SP2966 Avon Dassett SP4149 Combrook SP3051 Compton Scorpion SP2140 Halford SP2645 Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Compton Verney SP3152 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Baginton Airport SP3574 Compton Wynyates SP3341 Hampton-on-the-Hill SP2564 Baginton Lagoons SP3573 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Hams Hall SP2091 Bannamʼs Wood SP1164 Coombe Slade Pool SP3337 Harbury SP3759 Barford SP2760 Corley SP2985 Harbury Spoilbank NR SP3859 Bascote SP4063 Corley Moor SP2785 Hartshill SP3293 Beausale SP2470 Coton Pools SP2194 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Bedworth SP3686 Coughton SP0760 Hartshill STW SP3395 Bedworth Nook SP3486 Crackley Wood SP2874 Haselor SP1257 Bentley SP2795 Cryfield SP2975 Hatton SP2367 Bentley Woods SP2895 Cubbington SP3468 Haunch Lane Flood SP2094 Bermuda SP3589 Curdworth SP1793 Hawkesbury SP3685 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Heach Wood SP2488 Billesley SP1456 Debdale Wood SP4266 Henley-in-Arden SP1465 Birchmoor SK2501 Dingle Pool SP2044 Hill Wootton SP3068 Birdingbury SP4368 Ditchford Frary SP2337 Hillmorton SP5373 Bishopʼs Bowl Lakes SP3858 DMC Kineton SP3651 Hodnell Pool SP4256 Bishopʼs Itchington SP3857 Dordon SK2600 Honiley SP2472 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Dosthill Lake SP2098 Hopsford SP4283 Brailes SP3139 Draycote Water SP4669 Hunningham SP3768 Brailes Hill SP2939 Dunchurch SP4871 Hunscote SP2454 Bramcote Hall SK2704 Dunnington SP0653 Hurley Common SP2396 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Dunton SP1893 Bretford SP4277 Idlicote SP2844 Brinklow SP4379 Earlswood Common SP1173 Ilmington SP2143 Broadwell SP4565 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Ilmington Downs SP1942 Broom SP0953 Easenhall SP4679 Itchington Holt SP3755 Brownsover SP5176 Eathorpe SP3969 Bulkington SP3986 Eathorpe Marsh SP3868 Kenilworth SP2971 Bunkers Hill Wood SP4869 Edge Hill SP3747 Keresley SP3285 Burton Dassett SP3951 Ensors Pool SP3490 Kineton SP3351 Burton Green SP2675 Ettington SP2649 Kingsbury SP2196 Butlers Marston SP3150 Exhall SP3485 Kingsbury Water Park SP2097 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Calcutt SP4763 Farnborough SP4349 Kingswood SP1871 Caldecote SP3494 Farnborough Park SP4249 Kites Hardwick SP4668 Camp Hill SP3393 Fenny Compton SP4152 Knightcote SP4055

223 Ladbroke SP4158 Pailton SP4781 Tanworth-in-Arden SP1170 Ladywalk SP2191 Pillerton Hersey SP3048 Temple Pool SP3744 Lawford Heath Tip/GP SP4473 Pillerton Priors SP2947 Terryʼs Green SP1073 Lea Marston Pools SP2093 Polesworth SK2602 Tomlow SP4563 Leamington Hastings SP4467 Poolfields SP3253 Traitorʼs Ford SP3336 Leamington Spa SP3165 Preston Bagot SP1765 Tysoe SP3444 Leek Wootton SP2868 Preston-on-Stour SP2049 Lighthorne SP3355 Princethorpe SP4070 Ufton Fields SP3861 Lighthorne Pools SP3356 Print Wood SP3864 Ufton Hill SP3961 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Ufton Tip SP3961 Lighthorne Rough SP3154 Priors Marston SP4957 Ufton Wood SP3862 Lillington SP3367 Ullenhall SP1267 Little Alne SP1461 Radford Semele SP3464 Umberslade SP1371 Little Packington SP2184 Radway SP3748 Upper Kingston SP3556 Long Itchington SP4165 Ragley Park SP0755 Upper Radbourn SP4458 Long Itchington Wood SP3963 Ratley SP3847 Upper Shuckburgh SP4961 Long Lawford SP4776 Rowington SP2069 Upton Park SP3645 Long Marston SP1548 Rugby SP5175 Longbridge SP2662 Rye Farm SP1894 Walton Hall SP2852 Lower Quinton SP1847 Ryton-on-Dunsmore SP3874 Walton Wood SP2850 Lower Radbourn SP4457 Ryton Pools CP SP3772 Warmington SP4147 Lower Shuckburgh SP4862 Ryton Wood SP3872 Warwick SP2864 Warwick Park SP2863 Marlcliff SP0950 Salford Priors SP0751 Wasperton SP2658 Marston Doles SP4658 Salford Priors GP SP0752 Watergall SP4255 Marston Jabbett SP3788 Seckington SK2607 Water Orton GP SP1891 Maxstoke SP2386 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Meon Hill SP1745 Shear Hog Plantation SP3147 Wellesbourne SP2755 Merevale SP2997 Shelfield SP1262 Wellesbourne Wood SP2653 Middleton SP1798 Sherbourne SP2661 Weston-on-Avon SP1650 Middleton Hall SP1998 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Weston Park SP2834 Milcote SP1752 Shotteswell SP4245 Weston-under- Milcote STW SP1852 Shuckburgh Hills and Wetherley SP3669 Moreton Morrell SP3155 Park SP4961 Whatcote SP3044 Morton Bagot SP1064 Shustoke Res SP2291 Whichford SP3134 Shuttington SK2505 Whichford Wood SP3034 Napton Hill SP4561 Snitterfield SP2159 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Napton Res SP4759 Snitterfield Bushes SP2060 Whitacre Heath NR SP2092 Nelsonʼs Quarry SP4464 Snowford SP3865 Whitacre Waterworks SP2191 Newbold Comyn SP3465 Somers, The SP2282 Whittleford Park SP3291 Newbold Pacey SP2957 Southam SP4161 Willoughby SP5167 Newfield Pool SP4554 Spernall SP0862 Wilmcote SP1657 Northend SP3952 Spernall Park SP1062 Winderton SP3240 Nuneaton SP3691 Stockton SP4365 Windmill Hill (Ilmington) SP2042 Stoneleigh SP3372 Windmill Hill NR SP3493 Oakley Wood SP3059 Stoneton Moat SP4654 Wishaw SP1794 Offchurch SP3565 Stoneythorpe Park SP4062 Wixford SP0854 Old Dyke Gorse SP3042 Stourton SP2936 Wolfhamcote SP5265 Old Milverton SP3067 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Wolverton SP2062 Oversley Wood SP1056 Stretton-on-Fosse SP2238 Woodloes Park SP2866 Oxhill SP3145 Studley SP0763 Wootton Wawen SP1563 Sutton-under-Brailes SP2937 Wormleighton SP4454 Packington Park SP2283 Sweet Knowle SP2048 Wormleighton Reservoir SP4451 Packwood SP1772

Worcestershire Abberley SO7567 Alvechurch SP0272 Ashton-under-Hill SO9938 Abberley Hill SO7566 Anhill Wood SO7778 Ashton-under-Hill SO9937 Abberton SO9953 Arboretum, The SO8555 Aston Mill East SO9435 Abbey Road Gardens SO7745 Arley Wood SO8082 Astwood Bank SP0462 Adamʼs Hill SO9279 Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 Astwood Fisheries SO9365 Aileshurst Coppice SO7750 Ashmoor Common SO8446 Aytonʼs Heath SO6963

224 Barbourne SO8457 Claines SO8558 Hayley Green SO9482 Barnards Green SO7845 Clent Hills SO9379 Heightington Brook SO7670 Barnett Brook SO8876 Clifton Pits SO8445 Heronry Wood SO8461 Barnett Hill SO8876 Clifton Village SO8446 Hewell Grange SP0169 Barnt Green SP0073 Cofton Court SP0175 Hewell Lake SP0169 Battenhall SO8653 Cofton Hachett Res SP0075 Highfields SO7254 Beckford Conservation Cofton Richards Farm SP0175 Hill End SO8238 Pit SO9736 Coldridge Wood SO8082 Hill Furze SP0048 Beckford Lakes SO9836 Conderton SO9637 Himbleton SO9458 Berkley SO8857 Coombegreen Hindlip SO8758 Berrow Down SO7638 Common SO7736 Hinton-on-the-Green SP0240 Berrow Green SO7458 Croome River SO8844 Hipton Hill SP0348 Besford SO9144 Cropthorne SO9844 Hollybed Common SO7737 Bevere Lock SO8359 Crowle SO9256 Hollybush SO7636 Bewdley SO7875 Cutnell Green SO8868 Hollybush Quarry SO7636 Birchen Coppice SO8073 Holt Heath SO8163 Birlingham SO9343 Dayhouse Wood SO9779 Holt Prairies SO8262 Bishampton SO9951 Deansford SO8678 Honey Brook Valley SO7978 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Deerfold Wood SO9147 Hopwood SP0375 Bittell Reservoir SP0174 Defford Airfield SO9044 Huddington SO9457 Blackpole SO8657 Diglis Basin SO8453 Huntsbridge SO7783 Blake Mill Pool SO8979 Diglis Lock SO8453 Hurcott Pool SO8577 Blakedown SO8878 Dines Green SO8255 Blakedown Pool SO8979 Dowles Brook SO7776 Ismere SO8679 Bodenham SO8180 Droitwich SO8962 Joanʼs Hole SO7670 Bradley Green SO9861 Dumbleton SO7069 Jubilee Hill SO7641 Brakes Broughton SO8248 Dunhampstead SO9160 Bransford SO7852 Kemerton Estate SO9436 Bransford Bridge SO8053 East Valley SO7645 Kemerton Pool SO9437 Breach Dingle SO9681 Eckington SO9241 Kempsey SO8549 Bredicot SO9054 Ell Wood SO9679 Kempsey Lower Ham SO8449 Bredon Field Farm SO9038 Evesham SP0343 Kempsey STW SO8448 Bredon Hill SO9139 Eymore Wood SO7779 Kerswell Green SO8646 Bredonʼs Norton SO9339 Kidderminster SO8376 Bredonʼs Hardwick SO9135 Far Forest SO7275 Kingswood SO7640 Bricklehampton SO9842 Feckenham SP0061 Kington SO9955 British Camp SO7640 Fish Hill SP1137 Kinsham Lake SO9836 British Camp Reservoir SO7639 Fladbury SO9946 Knapp, The SO7451 Broad Heath SO8156 Flintʼs Dingle SO6363 Knightwick SO7355 Broadway SP0937 Forehill SP0575 Kyre SO6263 Broadway GP SP0837 Foxhill Wood SO9740 Kyre Pool SO6364 Broadway Hill SP1136 Bromsgrove SO9570 Grafton Flyford SO9854 Ladies Pool SO8877 Brotheridge Green SO8241 Grafton Lane SO9469 Langdale Wood SO7943 Broughton SO8741 Grafton Reservoir SO9936 Larford Pool SO8169 Broughton Green SO9561 Great Malvern SO7846 Leigh Sinton SO7750 Grimley Brick Pit SO8361 Lenchwick SP0347 Callow Hill SO7473 Grimley New Workings SO8359 Lickey Hills SO9975 Castlemorton Common SO7839 Grimley Old Workings SO8361 Lickmoor Coppice SO8846 Catshill SO9573 Grimley Triangle SO8260 Lickmoor Wetland SO8845 Caunsall SO8581 Grimley Village SO8360 Lineholt SO8266 Chadbury SP0246 Gullet Quarry SO7638 Little Comberton SO9643 Chaddesley SO9073 Gullet, The SO7638 Little Malvern SO7740 Chaddesley Corbett SO8873 Gwen Finch Wetland SO9341 Lodge Hill Farm SO7576 Chaddesley Wood SO9173 Longdon Marsh SO8235 Chase End Hill SO7635 Habberley Valley SO8077 Lower Bittell Reservoir SP0174 Chase End Wood SO9073 Ham Bridge SO7361 Lower Moor SO9847 Chat Valley SO7746 Hanbury Wharf SO9263 Lower Moor STW SO9746 Chateau Impney SO9164 Hangmanʼs Hill SO7639 Lower Norchard SO7670 Childswickham SP0738 Hanley Swan SO8142 Lower Rochford SO6268 Church Lench SP0251 Happy Valley SO7645 Lower Sapey SO6960 Church Lench Pool SP0250 Harvington SP0549 Lower Strensham SO9040 Churchill SO8879 Haws Hill SO6065 Lower Wick SO8353

225 Malvern Hills SO7640 Ryall Pits SO8639 Upper Arley SO7680 Malvern Link SO7847 Ryall Southern Pit SO8638 Upper Bittell Reservoir SP0275 Malvern Wells SO7742 Upper Kites Wood SO9757 Salterʼs Lane SO8846 Midsummer Hill SO7637 Upper Welland SO7740 Shadybank Common SO7639 Mill Shrub Pool SP0174 Upton Warren SO9367 Shatterford SO7981 Monk Wood SO8060 Upton-upon-Severn SO8540 Shatterford Wood SO7980 Moorgreen Hall SP0574 Upton-Upon-Severn Shenstone SO8673 Moors Pool SO9367 S. Ham SO8539 Sheriffs Lench SP0249 Mount Pleasant SP0439 Upton-upon-Severn Shernal Green SO9161 STW SO8440 Shoots Hill SO9157 Nafford SO9441 Shrawley SO8064 Nafford Lock SO8441 Vale Business Park SP0243 Sling Pool SO9477 Nash End SO7781 Smite SO8958 Naunton Beauchamp SO9652 Wadborough SO9047 Spetchley SO8953 Nimmings SO9380 Walsgrove Hill SO7456 Spetchley Park SO8953 North Hill SO7646 Walton Hill SO9479 Spring Lane Nunnery Wood SO8754 Warndon SO8856 Industrial Estate SO7847 Wassell Grove St. Annes Well SO7745 Oakley Marsh SO8960 Business Park SO9382 St. Johnʼs SO8354 Oakley Pool SO8960 Wassell Grove Pools SO9382 Stanford Bridge SO7165 Oakley Wood SO9060 Welland SO7940 Stock Green SO9858 Oddingley SO9159 West Malvern SO6746 Stoke Bliss SO6562 Old Hills SO8248 Westmancote SO9337 Stoke Prior SO9467 Old Road South SO8448 Westwood Park SO8763 Storridge SO7451 Old Storridge SO7451 Westwood Pool SO8763 Stoulton SO9049 Oldington Beet Factory SO8273 Whitehouse Farm SO8679 Strensham Lagoons SO9139 Whiteleaved Oak SO7635 Strensham Mill SO9140 Pensax SO7268 Wickhamford SP0641 Suckley Hills SO7351 Pensax Common SO7268 Wilden Marsh SO8273 Sugar Loaf Hill SO7645 Perdiswell SO8557 Wildmoor Tip SO9576 Pershore SO9445 Table Hill SO7846 Willow Marsh Fishery SO8773 Pinnacle Hill SO7642 Tallow Hill SO8555 Winyates East SP0767 Pinvin SO9549 Tank Quarry SO7646 Wisemanʼs Scrape SO8865 Pirton Pool SO8747 Thorngrove SO8260 Wissetts Wood SO6772 Portway SP0771 Throckmorton Airfield SO9649 Witnells End SO7961 Powick Ham SO8352 Throckmorton Lagoons SO9748 Wood Norton SP0147 Throckmorton Tip SO9748 Wood Norton Flash SP0147 Rabbit Wood SO9557 Tibberton SO9057 Worcester SO8454 Radford SP0055 Tilesford SO9650 Worcestershire Beacon SO7645 Raggedstone Hill SO7586 Timberhonger SO9170 Wychbury Hill SO9181 Ravenshill Wood SO7353 Top Barn Farm SO8261 Wyche Cutting SO7643 Redditch SP0467 Trench Wood SO9258 Wyre Forest SO7475 Ripple SO8738 Trimpley SO7778 Wyre Piddle SO9647 Romsley SO9679 Trimpley Reservoir SO7778 Wyre Piddle Rous Lench SP0153 Truemanʼs Heath SP0978 Business Park SO9547

Staffordshire Abrahamʼs Valley SK0020 Badgers Croft SK0463 Bennettshitch SK0066 Acton Trussell SJ9318 Baggeridge CP SO8992 Bent Lane SJ8139 Alrewas GP SK1815 Bagots Wood SK0727 Beresford Dale SK1259 Alton SK0742 Baldwins Gate STW SJ8039 Biddulph Moor SJ9058 Ansonʼs Bank SJ9816 Barn Bank Lane SJ9120 Biddulph Park SJ8960 Apedale CP SJ8148 Barrow Moor SK0564 Biddulph Valley SJ8757 Aqualate SJ7720 Barrow Moor SK0564 Bishops Wood Ashwood SO8688 Barton GP SK2017 (nr Doley) SJ7531 Aston by Stone SJ9131 Baswich SJ9422 Black Bank SJ8147 Astonefields SJ9225 Bateswood CP SJ7947 Bleak House SK0311 Chartley Hall SK0028 Bateswood Lake SJ7948 Blithfield Reservoir SK0523 Bearda SJ9664 Boarsgrove SK0462 Back Forest SJ9865 Beeston Tor SK1054 Boldershaw SK1345 Back oʼ thʼ Brook SK0851 Beffcote SJ8019 Boldershaw SK1345 Baddeley Green SJ9051 Belvide Reservoir SJ8610 Boosley Grange SK0662

226 Borrowpit Lake SK2004 Danebridge SJ9665 Hazelstrine SJ9420 Bottom House SK0452 Deadwaters SK1040 Heaton SJ9561 Bradley SJ8817 Denstone SK0940 Hen Cloud SK0061 Bradnop SK0156 Dimmingsdale SK0543 High Ash SK0465 Brancote SJ9622 Doley Common SJ8121 High Offley SJ7826 Brandhole Kennels SK0369 Dosthill Pits SP2099 Hill Ridware SK0717 Branston GP SK2120 Dove Head SK0368 Hints SK1502 Branston WP SK2120 Dovedale SK1451 Hixon Airfield SJ9927 Brindley Ford SJ8854 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Holden Lane Pools SJ8950 Britannia Football Drayton Bassett Pits SK1900 Hole Carr SK0565 Stadium SJ8843 Drystone Edge SK0268 Hollinsclough SK0666 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 Dunstall Racecourse SJ8900 Brockton Grange SJ7913 Dunston SJ9217 Ilam SK1350 Bromstead Common SJ8018 Dunston Heath SJ9116 Ingestre SJ9824 Brookleys Lake SK0943 Dydon Wood SK1344 Ipstones SK0249 Broom Hill SJ7519 Broughton Pond SJ7930 East Bishton SK0320 Jack Hayes SJ9249 Brune Mill SK0961 Ecton SK0958 Jacksonʼs Coppice SJ7830 Bunkers Hill SO8782 Eland Brook SK1426 JCB North Lake SK1039 Bunster Hill SK1451 Eland Lodge SK1427 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Burnt Wood SJ7335 Elford North Pit SK1711 Keele University SJ8244 Burntwood SK0608 Elford Park Farm SK1912 Kettlebrook Lakes SK2203 Burston SJ9330 Ellastone SK1143 Kibblestone SJ9136 Burton-on-Trent SK2423 Essington Quarry Pool SJ9603 Kings Bromley SK1116 Bury Bank SJ8835 Knar SK0067 Butterton SJ8342 Featherstone SJ9304 Knotbury SK0168 Feltsitch SK0359 Knutton SJ8446 Caltonmoor SK1148 Fernhill SJ7522 Knypersley Reservoir SJ8955 Calwich Park SK1243 Fisherwick SK1709 Cannock landfill SJ9909 Five Clouds SK0062 Lady Edge SK0562 Castle Croft SO8697 Flash SK0267 Lapley SJ8712 Catholme SK1915 Flashbrook Grange SJ7424 Lask Edge SJ9157 Chapel Chorlton SJ8137 Fleet Green SK0561 Levedale SJ9016 Chartley Castle SK0128 Foker Grange SJ9657 Lichfield SK1109 Chasewater SK0307 Frith Bottom SJ9961 Little Aston SK0900 Chatterley SJ8451 Little Ferneyford SK0661 Chatterley Whitfield SJ8853 Gailey SJ9310 Little Haywood SK0021 Cheadle SK0143 Gailey Lower Pool SJ9310 Little Madeley SJ7745 Chebsey SJ8529 German Cemetery SJ9815 Little Stoke SJ9133 Checkhill Bog SO8587 Gib Torr SK0264 Longnor SK0864 Chillington SJ8506 Gillow Heath SJ8758 Lowe Hill SJ9955 Church Eaton SJ8417 Glacial Boulder SJ9818 Lower Cowley SJ8218 Churnet Valley SK0545 Glutton Bridge SK0866 Lower Hatton SJ8236 Clay Mills STW SK2626 Gnosall SJ8321 Lower Lady Meadows SK0252 Clayton SJ8543 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Lower Stonnall SK0803 Coal Brook SJ7232 Gospel Ash SO8391 Lum Edge SK0659 Cold Norton SJ8731 Gradbach SJ9965 Coldmeece Pools SJ8532 Gravelly Way SJ9109 Madeley SJ7745 Colwich SK0121 Great Chatwell SJ7914 Madeley STW SJ7745 Consall CP SJ9948 Greenway Bank CP SJ8955 Marquis Drive SK0015 Combridge SK0937 Grindon Moor SK0655 Marstongate Farm SJ9126 Coombes Valley SK0052 Gun Hill SJ9761 May Bank SJ8547 Copmere SJ8029 Gunstone SJ8704 Meece Brook SJ8432 Cotes Heath SJ8335 Meerbrook SJ9960 Coton End SJ8119 Hales Estate SJ7434 Mermaid Inn SK0360 Cowhay NR SJ9656 Hanchurch Water Tower SJ8339 Merril Grove SK0464 Crakemarsh SK0935 Hanchurch Woods SJ8340 Middle Hills SK0363 Creswell SJ8926 Handsacre Flash SK0916 Milford SJ9721 Crown Meadows SJ9033 Hanley Forest Park SJ8848 Milldale SK1354 Croxall SK1814 Harpers Gate SJ9557 Milton SJ9051 Croxall GP SK1914 Hatherton SJ9510 Moreton SK1429 Crumpwood SK0842 Hayes SK0860 Morridge SK0257 Cuckoo Bank SK0310 Hazel Barrow SK0163 Musden Low SK1150

227 Napley Farm SJ7138 Revidge SK0759 Thorncliffe SK0158 National Mem. Rickerscote SJ9320 Thorswood SK1147 Arboretum SK1814 Rifle Range SJ9917 Three Shires Head SK0068 Nether Hay SK0060 River Sow Meadows SJ9522 Throwley Moor SK0952 Netherset Hey SJ7843 Roach Grange SJ9963 Tixall SJ9722 Newbold Quarry SK2019 Roaches SK0063 Tixall Wide SJ9822 Newborough SK1325 Rocester SK1039 Toad Hole Bridge SK1443 Newcastle-under-Lyme SJ8445 Round Knowl Farm SK0562 Trentham Gardens SJ8639 Newtown SK0663 Royal Cottage SK0263 Tunstall SJ8551 Norbury SK1242 Royledge SK0459 Turn Edge SK0167 Norbury Manor SJ7923 Rudyard SJ9457 Norbury Park SJ8022 Rugeley Power Station SK0517 Upper Brownhill SK0859 North Staffs Rushton Spencer SJ9362 Upper Hay SK0560 Moors SJ96/SK06 Upper Hulme SK0160 Norton Bridge SJ8730 Seighford SJ8825 Uttoxeter Quarry SK0935 Seighford Airfield SJ8625 Oakenclough Hall SK0563 Seven Springs SK0020 Walton Grange SJ8118 Offley Marsh SJ7928 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Warslow SK0858 Okeover SK1548 Shooting Butts SK0117 Warslow Hall SK0959 Okeover Mill SK1648 Silverdale Colliery SJ8146 Waterfall SK0851 Oliver Hill SK0267 South Farley SK0643 Watermills Wood SJ8148 Orchard Common SK0269 Springslade Lodge SJ9716 Weagʼs Bridge SK0954 Otherton SJ9212 Stableford SJ8138 Weaver Hills SK0946 Oxbatch SK0461 Stafford SJ9223 Wergs SJ8600 Stafford Common SJ9225 West End SJ8744 Park Banks SK0842 Stafford Hospital SJ9323 Westlands SJ8344 Parkgate SK1044 Stanley Moor SJ9251 Weston Jones SJ7624 Park Hall CP SJ9244 Stanley Pool SJ9351 Weston Jones Mill SJ7524 Pasturefields SJ9924 Stanton SK1246 Westport Lake SJ8550 Peasley Bank SJ9030 Stanton Dale SK1048 Wetley Moor SJ9248 Pendeford Mill NR SJ8903 Stepping Stones SJ9820 Wettonmill SK0956 Penkridge Banks SK0017 Stoke-on-Trent SJ8745 White House SJ9916 Penn Golf Course SO9095 Stone SJ9034 Whitemoor Haye SK1813 Pethills SK0365 Strawberry Hill SK0019 Whitley Ford SJ7522 Pillaton SJ9413 Stretton SJ8811 Whitleyford Bridge SJ7423 Pool Dam Marshes SJ8346 Sturbridge SJ8430 Whitmore SJ8040 Pool Hall Fisheries SO8597 Sugnall SJ7930 Whittimere SO8292 Pottal Pool SJ9714 Summerhill SK0062 Whittington Common SO8683 Prestwood SK1042 Swainsley SK0957 Wigginstall SK0960 Pye Green SJ9913 Swallow Moss SK0660 Wolf Edge SK0267 Pyeclough Head SK0364 Swineholes Wood SK0450 Wolfscote Dale SK1357 Swynnerton SJ8535 Wolseley Bridge SK0220 Quixhill SK1041 Swynnerton Old Park SJ8340 Wolstanton SJ8547 Wootton SK1044 Radford Bank SJ9320 Tamworth SK2004 Wychnor SK1716 Ranton SJ8524 The Bent SK0762 Readyleach Green SK0268 The Sprink SK0942 Yoxall SK1418 Reapsmoor SK0861 Thick Withins SK0466

West Midlands Aldridge SK0500 Bickenhill SP1882 Bradnockʼs Marsh SP2179 Aston SP0888 Bills Wood SP1178 Brookvale Park SP0991 Bilston SO9496 Brownhills SK0405 Balsall Common SP2476 Bilston Cemetery SO9597 Brownhills Common SK0406 Barr Beacon SP0697 Birmingham City Centre SP0686 Brueton Park SP1678 Barston SP2078 Birmingham City Bartley Reservoir SP0081 Football Ground SP0986 California SP0183 Bentley Heath SP1675 Blythe Valley SP1375 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Berkswell Lake SP2479 Bourne Pool SP0699 Castle Bromwich SP1489 Berkswell Woods SP2479 Bournville SP4081 Catherine-de-Barnes SP1790 Berry Hall SP1779 Bowmans Harbour SO9399 Cheswick Green SP1275

228 Clayhanger SK0404 Ladymoor Pool SO9495 Sheldon SP1584 Cotwall End SO9192 Ladywood SP0586 Shirley SP1179 Coventry University SP2975 Lightwoods Park SP0184 Siden Hill Wood SP2180 Cuckooʼs Nook SP0598 Lutley Wedge SO9483 Small Heath SP0985 Smestow Valley SO8899 Darbyʼs Hill SO9689 Marsh Lane NR SP2180 Sneyd Pool SJ9802 Dartmouth Park SP0291 Marston Green SP1781 Solihull SP1579 Dingles (R Cole) Mere Green SP1199 Stourbridge SO9084 Dorridge SP1675 Meriden SP2481 Stubbers Green SK0401 Dudley SO9490 Middle Bickenhill SP2083 Sutton Coldfield SP1296 Dunstall Park SJ9000 Milking Bank Pool SO9290 Sutton Park SP0996 Minworth SP1692 Edgbaston Golf Course SP0584 Minworth STW SP1692 Temple Balsall SP2076 Edgbaston Pool SP0584 Mons Hill SO9392 Tettenhall SJ8800 Edgbaston Reservoir SP0486 Moor Green SP1377 Trittiford Mill SP0979 Turls Hill SO9293 Fen End SP2274 Nechells SP0887 Tyseley SP1184 Fens Pools SO9188 Norton (in Stourbridge) SO8982 Foxcote Pond SO9383 Norton Lane Valley Parkway SP0381 Frankley Reservoir (Earlswood) SP1074 (North section) SP0080 Walsall SP0198 Oldwich Lane SP2174 Warley Woods SP0186 Goscote Valley SK0102 Olton Mere/Reservoir SP1382 Wednesfield SJ9400 Grange Farm SK0303 Wergs SJ8700 Pelsall North Common SK0103 West Bromwich SP0091 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Whites Wood S09293 Handsworth SP0390 Ravenshaw SP1779 Whitmore Reans SO9099 Handsworth Park SP0590 Rocket Pool SO9594 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Handsworth Wood SP0590 Rowley Regis SO9687 Wightwick SO8698 Harborne SP0284 Russells Hall SO9280 Willenhall Memorial Highgate SP0785 Ryders Hayes Mere SK0304 Park SO9698 Hillfield Park SP1477 Wishaw Lane SP1695 Hockley Heath SP1572 Saltwells LNR SO9387 Witton Lakes SP0892 Holbrooks SP3383 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Wolverhampton SO9198 Hurst Hill SO9294 Selly Oak SP0482 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Senneleys Park SP0182 Wrenʼs Nest NNR SO9391 Ilshaw Heath SP1374 Sheepwash Urban Park SO9791 Key to Contributors The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the Classified Notes Those also contributing the Ringing Report are mentioned under that report Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone It would greatly help compilation if observers could give their full set of initials with their records, as this helps to identify them more uniquely and so cuts down the risk of confusion between similar names or sets of initials.

DJ Abbott P Ball JT Belsey M Adams DK Ballance Belvide Annual Report MJ Adkins J Ballance R Best JKL Allen Banbury Ornithological Society S Bicknell SE Andrews J Banton R Biddle A Archer C Barlow G Birch MA Arnold NP Barlow N Bird S Arnold SM Barnes Bissell K Aslett J Basten RO Blackmoor PW Bateman SC Bletchly Baggeridge CP Rangers B Bates RM Blindell E Bainbridge ? Baxter S Bloomfield G Ball N Bayliss MD Boote H Ball S Bell LJ Booth

229 JJ Bowley R Crump A Freeman A Boydon I Crutchley D Freeman I Boyle (IBo) DA Cunliffe SN Freeman D Bragg M Curnow R Fussell N Brandrick A Curran Brandon Marsh Conservation Grp PA Curry D Galletly G Brereton ND Galloway S Bridgman CJ Davies D Gash C Brittle G Davies BC George RC Broadbent M Davies B Gethryn LA Brown R Davies A Giddings N Brown RM Davies M Godfrey RM Brown C Dawson WG Goldstraw SC Brown AR Dean A Goodwin J Bruce S Dean AG Goodwin J Bryan PK Dedicoat D Goodwin WJ Brydges M Deegan R Gough BTO WeBS GRJ Dent AD Gouldstone BTO Migration Watch KL Dewey A Grace BTO Bird Track A Dickie NG Greatholder J Buchanan J Diggle G Greaves AB Buckel S Dix H Green (HGr) J Buckley SG Dodd H Green AK Burton TM Dorrance M Green P Burton M Doughty (MD) FC Gribble G Busby P Douthwaite (PD) GI Griffiths I Butler I Downie J Griffiths P Downing J Gulley P Caldicott Doxey Annual Report D Gwilliams N Cale Draycote Log N Carter (Warks) S Driscoll PM Hackett N Carter (Staffs) PA Dryburgh MJ Hadlington S Carter RE Duckhouse A Halfpenny M Cashmore K Dudley K Hall R Castle (RCa) S Dungay R Hall J Cater W Dutton NJ Hallam SL Cawthray P Dykta A Hancock M Chalmers RE Harbird D Charlton A Eardley R Harding (RHg) Chasewater Annual Report H Eccles JA Hardman M Chattwood P Edwards B Hardwing JA Chidwick WJ Egmont J Harris (JH) JA Chidwick M Elliott J Harris M Churchill DW Emley GR Harrison ES Clare SM Emley JV Harrison GE Clarke CA Evans M Harrison R Claxton G Evans P Harvey PG Clement N Evans SL Haycox SL Clement RJ Evans CJ Hayes GA Clements S Evans G Hayes KM Clements SM Haynes K Clifford SJ Falk S Heam A Cobley VJ Farmer B Heaton T Coggins FJ Farrell S Henshall A Cook U Fenton TC Hextell Coombes Valley RSPB E Ferneyhough C Heyworth (CHe) Consall Rangers PJ Findon K Higginson (KHi) C Cooper P Fontana C Hill G Corbett-Marshall K Ford DI Hill D Cox M Fortnum J Hill B Craddock M Fox RA Hill JH Craik J Francis TM Hinett D Crawley HY Franklin LR Hobin

230 PE Hodges A Leak GH Peplow ? Hodgkiss L Lees WF Peplow J Hodson MJ Lewis T Perrins J Hogg J Liggins BR Perry A Holliday D Lincoln J Perry R Hollis M Lindsey R Perry P Holmes J Lloyd M Perryman A Holt M Lloyd A Phillips JV Holtham (JVHo) S Lloyd E Phillips JV Holtham JR Lomas I Phillips RR Howl K Longshaw S Pickle EP Hughes R Lounge M Pittaway E Hulse C Lovering ND Pomiankowski D Hutton (DHu) WJ Low CR Poole DL Hyde G Lowe J Porter PD Hyde KI Lydster CH Potter SM Potter MJ Inskip A Mabbett BJ Price JA Irving MR Macfadyen E Price R MacRae L Price (LPr) AG Jackson Malvern Hills Bird Report P Price (PPr) J Jackson S Manning R Price K Jackson GJ Mant TR Price WT Jackson FC Marks M Prina AF Jacobs J Martin BG Prudden PA Jeavons R Maskew RA Prudden P Jenkins C Mason RJ Jennett MJ Mason J Raby DA Jennings R Massey MP Radford DW Jennings BD Matthews A Ramsell P Jeynes RC Mays R Randall D Johnson A McClure (AMc) RB Ratcliffe L Johnson C McClure (CMc) J Reece P Johnson K McGee AN Reynolds D Jones K Meadows J Rhodes J Jones A Mellor P Rice M Jones G Menzies-Kitchin P Richards P Jones K Metcalfe SA Richards P Jordan HJ Miller B Rickett JFC Judge I Moore VH Riley A Jukes J Moore J Roberts R Jukes A Morgan (AMo) K Robinson ET Jury AP Moss D Rogers N Moss S Roper S Keane JNT Mott E Rose M Kelly CP Round D Kelsall I Nadin CR Round J Killicoat PAJ Newman B Rowe D King GK Nicholls M Rowland H King T Norledge T Rowley RJ King Nuneaton and District GP Rowling J Knights Birdwatchersʼ Club RSPB Midland Office Kingsbury Log S Nuttall JM Rushforth P Kingston S Rushton BL Kington J OʼDell A Russell C Kirk J Oakes WJ Russell R Kirkham S Oates G Kirton C Osbourne S Sadler P Knott MJ Sanderson A Kydd N Page DA Saunders MW Painting DJ Scanlan CJ Lane K Parcell DA Scattergood JA Lawrence P Parton RWH Scroggs

231 S Seal G Summers Warwickshire Museum J Sells M Sutton R Weir A Shaw R Sutton J Wesson A Shires A Swift B Westwood P Shires R Swift DJ Westwood M Shooter N Sytch RB Wetherill MG Silverman K Wheatley JH Sirrett M Tarry L Wheaver R Skeates J Taylor B Wheelock (BWh) D Skidmore L Taylor R White (RWh) S Slack A Thomas PF Whitehead GC Slawson AD Thomas DG Whitehorne B Smith CA Thomas IC Whitehouse D Smith G Thomson SM Whitehouse M Smith TM Thursfield M Wildish MC Smith A Tideborough C Wilkinson NJ Smith M Till AG Williams RL Smith T Till DM Williams SCH Smith Tittesworth Annual Report GA Williams TH Smith M Tomlin M Williams (MWi) VD Smith FW Tunbridge CS Williamson GW Snell A Turner M Willmott GJ Soden CE Turner D Wilson P Sofley (PS) J Turner K Wimbush (KWi) DE Sollis ME Turner L Wimbush (LWi) M Speck SJ Turner WMBC Hotline HM Spencer-Caple L Wood P Spinks R Umpeldy MG Woodhams M Squire N Unwin GT Woodin D Squires MWC Woodward JA Stackhouse L von Ebling G Woodwin Staffs Ecological Record J Woolley M Standring D Waite Worcestershire Record S Steer MI Wakeman D Wragg MA Stephens DR Walker TJ Wright FG Stokes W Walters www.birdguides.com P Stoppard G Wardle B Stretch RJ Wardle DW Yalden T Stretton R Waring M Yapp CR Stubbs A Warr A Sturges AD Warren

232 Index to Species Avocet 70 Garganey 31 Kingfisher, Common 119 Godwit, Bar-tailed 86 Kite, Black 57 Bittern, Eurasian 52 Godwit, Black-tailed 85 Kite, Red 57 Blackbird 144 Goldcrest 161 Kittiwake 105 Blackcap 153 Goldeneye, Common 39 Knot, Red 78 Brambling 177 Goldfinch 179 Bufflehead 38 Goosander 41 Lapwing, Northern 75 Bullfinch 184 Goose, Bar-headed 191 Lark, Sky 122 Bullfinch, Northern 185 Goose, Barnacle 21 Lark, Wood 122 Bunting, Black-headed 186 Goose, Bean 17 Linnet 181 Bunting, Corn 188 Goose, Brent 22 Bunting, Little 187 Goose, Canada 20 Magpie 170 Bunting, Reed 187 Goose, Chinese 192 Mallard 28 Bunting, Snow 185 Goose, Domestic 192 Martin, House 126 Buzzard, Common 59 Goose, Egyptian 22 Martin, Sand 123 Chaffinch 176 Goose, Greylag 19 Merganser, Hooded 191 Chiffchaff, Common 158 Goose, Lesser Canada 190 Merganser, Red-breasted 40 Chiffchaff, Eastern type 160 Goose, Pink-footed 17 Merlin 62 Chiffchaff, Scandinavian 160 Goose, Red-breasted 190 Moorhen 66 Cockatiel 193 Goose, Rossʼs190 Cockatoo, Sulphur-crested 193 Goose, Snow 190 Nightingale, Common 136 Coot, Common 67 Goose, White-fronted 18 Nightjar, European 117 Cormorant, Great 51 Goshawk, Northern 59 Nuthatch, Eurasian 168 Crake, Spotted 66 Grebe, Black-necked 49 Crane sp. 68 Grebe, Great Crested 48 Oriole, Golden 169 Crossbill, Common 184 Grebe, Little 47 Osprey 61 Crow, Carrion 172 Grebe, Red-necked 49 Ouzel, Ring 144 Cuckoo, Common 114 Grebe, Slavonian 49 Owl, Barn 114 Curlew, Eurasian 87 Greenfinch 179 Owl, Eurasian Eagle 193 Greenshank, Common 90 Owl, Little 115 Dipper 135 Grouse, Red 43 Owl, Long-eared 116 Diver, Great Northern 46 Guineafowl, Helmeted 192 Owl, Short-eared 117 Dotterel 73 Gull, Black-headed 97 Owl, Tawny 116 Dove, Collared 112 Gull, Caspian 103 Oystercatcher 68 Dove, Stock 111 Gull, Common 98 Dove, Turtle 113 Gull, Glaucous 104 Parakeet, Rose-ringed 113 Duck, Ferruginous 35 Gull, Great Black-backed 105 Parrot, African Grey 193 Duck, Long-tailed 37 Gull, Herring 101 Parrot, sp. 193 Duck, Mandarin 23 Gull, Iceland 103 Partridge, Grey 45 Duck, Muscovy 192 Gull, Lesser Black-backed 100 Partridge, Red-legged 44 Duck, Ring-necked 34 Gull, Little 97 Peafowl, Indian 192 Duck, Ruddy 42 Gull, Mediterranean 95 Phalarope, Grey 95 Duck, Tufted 35 Gull, Yellow-legged 102 Phalarope, Red-necked 95 Duck, Wood 192 Pheasant, Common 46 Dunlin 80 Harrier, Hen 58 Pheasant, Golden 191 Dunnock 136 Harrier, Marsh 58 Pheasant, Green 192 Harrier, Montaguʼs59Pigeon, Feral 111 Egret, Great White 55 Hawfinch 185 Pigeon, Wood 111 Egret, Little 54 Hawk, Harrisʼs 192 Pintail, Northern 30 Falcon, Peregrine 64 Hawk, Red-tailed 192 Pintail, White-cheeked 192 Falcon, Red-footed 62 Heron, Grey 55 Pipit, Meadow 128 Fieldfare 145 Heron, Night 53 Pipit, Rock 129 Finch, Zebra 193 Heron, Squacco 53 Pipit, Scandinavian Rock 130 Firecrest 162 Hobby 63 Pipit, Tree 127 Flycatcher, Pied 164 Honey-buzzard 56 Pipit, Water 130 Flycatcher, Red-breasted 163 Hoopoe 119 Plover, European Golden 73 Flycatcher, Spotted 162 Plover, Grey 74 Fulmar 50 Jackdaw, Western 170 Plover, Little Ringed 70 Jay, Eurasian 170 Plover, Ringed 72 Gadwall 26 Pochard, Common 33 Gannet, Northern 50 Kestrel, Common 61 Pochard, Red-crested 33

233 Quail, Common 46 Snipe, Jack 81 Turnstone 94 Sparrow, House 174 Twite 182 Rail, Water 65 Sparrow, Tree 175 Raven, Common 172 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 59 Wagtail, Blue-headed 132 Redpoll, Common 184 Starling, Common 173 Wagtail, Grey 132 Redpoll, Lesser 183 Starling, Rose-coloured 174 Wagtail, Pied 133 Redshank, Common 89 Stint, Little 79 Wagtail, White 134 Redshank, Spotted 89 Stint, Temminckʼs79Wagtail, Yellow 130 Redstart, Black 137 Stonechat 140 Warbler, Cettiʼs149 Redstart, Common 137 Stork, White 56 Warbler, Dartford 157 Redwing 147 Swallow, Barn 125 Warbler, Garden 155 Robin 136 Swallow, Red-rumped 126 Warbler, Grasshopper 150 Rook 171 Swan, Bewickʼs16Warbler, Reed 152 Ruff 81 Swan, Black 191 Warbler, Saviʼs151 Swan, Black-necked 191 Warbler, Sedge 151 Sanderling 78 Swan, Mute 15 Warbler, Willow 160 Sandpiper, Broad-billed 81 Swan, Trumpeter 191 Warbler, Wood 158 Sandpiper, Common 93 Swan, Whooper 16 Warbler, Yellow-browed 157 Sandpiper, Curlew 79 Swift, Common 118 Waxbill, Black-rumped 193 Sandpiper, Green 91 Waxwing 134 Sandpiper, Pectoral 79 Teal, Eurasian 27 Wheatear, Greenland 143 Sandpiper, Spotted 94 Teal, Green-winged 28 Wheatear, Northern 141 Sandpiper, Wood 92 Tern, Arctic 108 Whimbrel 87 Scaup, Greater 37 Tern, Black 109 Whinchat 138 Scoter, Common 37 Tern, Common 107 Whitethroat, Common 156 Scoter, Velvet 38 Tern, Little 109 Whitethroat, Lesser 156 Shag 52 Tern, Sandwich 106 Wigeon, Eurasian 25 Shearwater, Manx 50 Tern, White-winged Black 110 Woodcock 84 Shelduck, Common 22 Thrush, Mistle 148 Woodpecker, Great Spotted 120 Shelduck, Ruddy 190 Thrush, Song 146 Woodpecker, Green 119 Shoveler 32 Tit, Bearded 164 Woodpecker, Shrike, Great Grey 169 Tit, Blue 167 Lesser Spotted 121 Shrike, Red-backed 169 Tit, Coal 167 Wren 136 Siskin 180 Tit, Great 168 Wryneck 119 Skua, Arctic 95 Tit, Long-tailed 165 Skua, Long-tailed 95 Tit, Marsh 165 Yellowhammer 186 Smew 39 Tit, Willow 166 Snipe, Common 83 Treecreeper, Eurasian 169

234 NOTES

235 NOTES

236