CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY Fifty-Third Annual Report 1983

St. George Printing Works Ltd., . Tel: 712354 Officers 1984-85

President: Dr. C. J. F. Coombs, Greenwith Place, Perranwell, Chairman: Mrs M. P. Visick, Trendain, Perranwell Station, Truro Vice Chairman: M. W. Tyler, Green Valley, Trevia, General Secretary: Mrs D. F. Inch 9 Compass West, Tregadillett, Launceston Minutes Secretary: Ms J. Sutcliffe 49 Lemon Street, Truro Treasurer and Registrar: W. K. J. Gray, 12 Chynance Drive, Field Meetings Officer: D. L. Thomas, Mirador, Whitecross, Nr. Newquay Conservation Officer: S. C. Hutchings, 24 Road, Penryn Assistant Conservation Officer: G. P. Sutton, The Old Orchard, , Newsletter Editor: F. M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, Public Relations Officer: E. Grace, Gwyngala, Meres Valley, Mullion, Officer for Youth and Education: Mrs S. D. Johns, 25 Hillcrest Ave., Truro Recorder and Editor "Birds in ": S. M. Christophers, 'Emberiza", 5 Newquay Rd., St. Columb Major Assistant Editor: R. Smaldon, 46 Briar Road, Hartley, Secretary for the : D. B. Hunt, Porthcressa Cafe, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly Joint Recorders and Editors — Isles of Scilly Journal:

D. B. Hunt, M. J. Rogers, Porthcressa Cafe, 195 Vicarage Road, St. Mary's, Sunbury-on-Thames, Isles of Scilly. Middlesex. Honorary Solicitor: G. R. J. Adams, Hillside, Treliever Road, Penryn Committee Members: P. J. Dwyer (Newquay) retires 1985, Mrs B. Allen (), V. R. Simpson () retires 1986, B. Acland (Truro), G. Gill (), N. R. Phillips (Penzance), L. A. Smith () retires 1987, and the officers ex-officio. OBITUARY

Captain E. G. Roper, C.B.E., D.S.O., D.S.C., R.N., Retd. It was with great regret we learned of the death on 13th February, 1983, of a former Vice-Chairman of the Society, Captain E. G. Roper, C.B.E., D.S.O., D.S.C., R.N.

Captain Roper's home was at St. Minver, , and he had been a keen, knowledgeable and active member of the Society for twenty five years having first joined in 1956. He served the Committee with diligence from 1967-1970 and from 1972-1975, and represented the Society at various Public Meetings and Enquiries in the Wadebridge and Camel area which he knew so well. He served as my Vice-Chairman from 1978-1981 and I was always aware that I had a good anchorman to call on when the need arose.

His family recalled the great happiness and real pleasure he derived from his association with our society. It was perhaps crowned for him with his sighting in November 1979, of The Belted Kingfisher. This being only the second time that this bird had been reported in , the previous bird having appeared in the same stretch of in November 1908.

Mrs. Irene Ryves A unique link with the Society was broken when the sad news came to me at the end of December of the death of Mrs. Irene Ryves the wife of our founder, the late Colonel B. H. Ryves. Her daughter Miss Barbara Ryves wrote to tell me and for that I was very grateful. In a wonderful tribute to her mother no words of mine could speak more eloquently. I would very much liked to have met her. I quote from Miss Ryves' letter. It really paints a lovely picture of a very special person. "She was a wonderful woman — his constant companion in birdwatching — his inspiration and encouragement — and she was also a marvellous mother, and person. My father owed her a tremendous amount. She died as she lived, serenely, gently, peacefully. A fine character in every way — aged 89 — still keenly interested in life — able to read without spectacles — her hearing and humour unimpaired. She died on Christmas Day, 8.30 a.m. I shall miss her immensely". The Society and the Annual Report will surely remain a memorial to the foresight, determination and enthusiasm of the Ryves family household which led to our foundation in 1931.

Mrs. P. Visick Chairman INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1983

INCOME £ P £ P Subscriptions Annual Membership .3,138.57 Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions . 365.90 3,504.47 Donations 130.64 Rent, Walmsley Sanctuary 350.00 Interest War Loan . 31.56 Cornwall County Council Bonds . 255.00 N.S.B. Investment Account . 290.73 Bank Deposit Account . 408.01 985.30 Other Income Sale of Annual Reports — Scilly . 904.78 — Mainland .... . 345.83 Other Sales . 145.52 1,396.13

6,366.54 Less: Printing, Stationery and Postages Annual Reports, 1982: Mainland 1,500.00 Scilly 898.00 News Letters 285.00 Other Printing and Stationery 268.27 Typing and Duplicating 40.00 Postages 711.23 Telephone 2.54 3,705.04 Other Expenditure Hire of Rooms for Meetings 5.30 Subscriptions to Societies 124.50 Insurance 97.30 Rents — Hides and Shooting Rights 41.00 Miscellaneous 49.28 Filing Cabinet 97.75 Calendars 415.13 Hide Expenses 172.30 4,292.47

EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £2,074.07 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1983

£ p £ p INVESTMENTS £902.24 3.5% War Loan at market price at 31st December, 1983 325.93 Cornwall County Council Bonds:— 14.5% Repayable 13th March, 1985 1,000.00 10.5%Repayable 31st March, 1987 1,000.00

2,325.93 DEBTORS 425.73 BANK BALANCES N.S.B. Investment Account ... 2,985.24 Deposit Account ... 6,258.45 Current Account 782.26 Cash in Hand 106.00 10,131.95

12,883.61 Less: LIABILITIES Subscriptions received in advance 104.50 Sundry Creditors 12.83 117.33

NET ASSETS £12,766.28 ACCUMULATED FUNDS Balance at 31st December, 1982 10,675.29 Add: Excess of Income over Expenditure for year 2,074.07 Increase in Market Value of War Loan 16.92

£12,766.28

NOTE: The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary in addition to the Assets shown in this Balance Sheet.

We have examined the above Balance Sheet dated 31st December, 1983, and the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended on that date with the books of the Society and certify that they are in accordance therewith.

Whitaker, Redfearn, Pappin & Co. Dated 12th April, 1984 Accountants. Newquay EDITORIAL and REVIEW of the YEAR

Although not quite equalling 1982 for rarities, 1983 was nevertheless another marvellous year for birdwatchers in Cornwall. 269 species and 13 distinctive subspecies or races were recorded on the Cornish mainland and a record 200 + observers sent records for inclusion in this report.

Three species were identified for the first time in Cornwall. These were Red- throated Pipit, Dusky Thrush and Slate-coloured Junco. Black Kite, Bonelli's Warbler, Red-eyed Vireo, Black-and-white Warbler and American Redstart all put in their second appearance and many other species were noted for the third, fourth or fifth time.

Records submitted were generally of a very high standard with a welcome increase in the volume of notes pertaining to breeding. Conversely, although the extreme rarities mentioned above were well described there was an alarming paucity of descriptions for some of the species considered to be County rarities (e.g. Arctic Tern) resulting in the omission of many records from this report.

The highlights of the year were undoubtedly the incredible 'sea-watch' of Sept. 3rd and the Jay invasion of October.

The year commenced (as 1982 had ended) with mild, wet Westerly airstreams crossing the County, bringing gales and above average rainfall and temperatures. Consequently the numbers of divers, grebes, wildfowl and winter thrushes were low. On the other hand, Black Redstarts, Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs and Firecrests were abnormally numerous. January and February were rather quiet ornithologically with 3 Spoonbills, 3 Bitterns, 2 Red Kites, a Red-necked Phalarope, 2 Little Auks and a small influx of Iceland Gulls providing the few highlights. Although February rainfall was below average, the weather was generally unsettled and remained so into the first week of March. At this time high pressure developed and the associated Southerly winds induced the arrival of the first Spring migrants on March 5th. The diversity of species involved in this arrival was interesting and included Garganey, Goshawk, Hoopoe, Sand Martin, Black Redstart, Wheatear and Chiffchaff. Simultaneously, many wintering birds moved out of the County, but many must surely have regretted the decision because cold weather returned in mid-month and migration virtually ceased.

This cold Northerly airstream persisted almost uninterrupted until April 12th when there was a brief respite for a few days before a return to wet Westerly weather from 16th.

April was remarkable for the number of eastern rarities which were recorded. One or two Rough-legged Buzzards, single Tawny and Red-throated Pipits, 2 Golden Orioles, a Great Grey Shrike, 4 Snow Buntings and a Little Bunting provided some fascinating bird watching.

Breeding species, particularly hirundines, Cuckoo and migrant warblers were grounded, en route from their wintering quarters, by adverse winds and persistent rain. In fact, with wet, cold and windy weather continuing throughout the month of May, the numbers of some species which arrived to breed were exceptionally low and one can only assume that enormous quantities perished in the inclement weather. The total rainfall for the month was almost twice the average and it was quite amazing that any rarities should arrive — but they did! Little Egret, Purple Heron, Montagus' Harrier, Osprey, Whiskered Tern, Tawny Pipit, 2 more Golden Orioles, 2 Woodchat Shrikes and 2 more Snow Buntings from Europe were complemented by a Surf Scoter and a totally unexpected Slate-coloured Junco from the Nearctic. Despite being drier than normal, June was generally cloudy and unsettled and could not possibly have been conducive to a successful breeding season. Summer finally arrived at the beginning of July. The month was very hot and dry, with record temperatures on several days. Canada Geese bred in the County for the first time outside of controlled or semi-controlled conditions. Garganey repeated their breeding success of 1982 and Woodlark were proved to breed in Cornwall for the first time since 1968. Cettis' Warbler, Dartford Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat continued to colonise and, encouragingly, Dippers were the subject of much increased coverage. Unfortunately, the moorland plantations apparently received scant attention resulting in virtually no information being received about Redpoll and Siskin. Rarities reported during the month included an unseasonal Goshawk and an exceptionally early Tawny Pipit.

August was hot and dry, virtually throughout. Wader passage was light, migrant warblers were scarce and the traditional Swallow roosts were not being used to capacity. A few goodies were noted including 11 Corys' Shearwater, 5 Stone Curlew, 5 + Aquatic Warblers, Icterine Warbler, 3 Melodious Warblers and a party of Crossbills. Towards the end of the month the forerunners of a good Little Stint passage arrived and the weather was ominously deteriorating.

The first three weeks of September were extremely turbulent with strong gales on several days. The outstanding feature was a deep, fast-moving depression which had raced across the North Atlantic bringing severe south-westerly gales to Cornwall late on Sept. 2nd. Overnight the wind whipped around to the north-west and in doing so induced scores of birdwatchers to trek to favoured North coast sea- watching sites. From dawn to dusk the diversity of species and the sheer volume of seabirds seen on this spectacular day was almost beyond comprehension. Over 70 birdwatchers who had converged on St. Ives Island used a dictionary of superlatives to describe a sea-watch which included 2 Corys', 80 Great, 250-1- Sooty and up to 50000 Manx Shearwaters, 10000 + Storm, 15 Leachs' and at least one Wilsons' Petrel, 20000+ Gannets, 20 Pomarine, 245+ Arctic, 4 Long-tailed, 450+ Great and one South Polar Skua, 100+ Sabines Gulls, 45 Sandwich, 2 Roseate, 250 Common and 100 Arctic Terns. Other headlands, notably Pendeen Watch, and Rumps Point also produced most of these species, albeit in generally lesser numbers. Extreme rarities apart, the two highlights of the day were the sight of swarms of Storm Petrels buzzing to and fro in the lee of the promontories and the staggering sight of flocks of Sabines Gulls passing almost close enough to touch. Surprisingly, few birds remained to shelter and those that did had moved out by mid-day on 4th. With winds abating, it was an opportune moment to search for Nearctic waders, but although a few Pectoral, Bairds, and later a White-rumped Sandpiper were to be located, this was not to prove an exceptional autumn for trans- Atlantic non-passerines to Cornwall. Unsettled weather persisted until the third week of the month, when a quieter easterly biased period of weather brought in rarities from the Continent. 2 Black Kites, Honey Buzzard, a string of Tawny Pipits, Richard Pipit, Bonellis' Warbler, Red Breasted Flycatcher, Lesser Grey Shrike and 3 Ortolan Buntings were among the most notable occurrences. The first three weeks of October were unsettled with frequent westerly gales which obviously assisted three Nearctic passerines, Red-eyed Vireo, Black-and- white Warbler and American Redstart to reach us. The gales culminated in another marvellous sea-watch on 16th when good numbers of Storm and Leachs' Petrels, Pomarine, Arctic and Great Skuas were accompanied by single Long-tailed and South Polar Skuas and a few Sabines Gulls. The major event of the month,

7 however, was the Jay invasion which involved thousands of birds presumably of Continental origin driven from their normal environment in search of food.

High pressure developed over the region from about Oct. 20th bringing with it a somewhat belated Indian summer and a massive movement of Jackdaws, Redwings and Fieldfare plus notable influxes of Hen Harriers and Merlins.

November started, as October had ended with mild, dry weather and more Eastern rarities passing through the County. From about the end of the first week of the month the weather turned considerably colder with heavy overnight frosts. Consequently there was a substantial movement of wildfowl through Cornwall. Included amongst the commoner species were one or two surprises; six small Canada Geese on the Lynher Estate were thought to be genuine vagrants of one of the small Alaskan races, 9 Mandarin Ducks and an American Wigeon were complemented by very high numbers of Little Grebes, 5 Velvet Scoter, a flock of 168 Common Scoter, 2 Ruddy Duck and 3 Long-tailed Duck. As in 1982, the chief prize of the year turned up in November. Last year it was a Varied Thrush, this year it was a Dusky Thrush which put in an all too brief appearance on the 13th.

Towards the end of November and through December the weather was generally mild. Birdwatching was basically uninspired with few wintering waterfowl and thrushes. A Black Guillemot and a far-ranging Crane were the major attractions. Minor influxes of Mediterranean and Iceland Gulls into the West of the County kept Laridae watchers happy. Thanks To all who made a contribution to this report. To Roger Smaldon for his assistance with the section Red-legged Partridge to House Martin. To Mike Frost, Stuart Hutchings and Graham Sutton for photographs. To Mike Frost and Renfred Hathway for drawings and Roger Penhallurick for the County map. Submission of Records Records for 1984 should please be sent to the Editor by 15th January 1985 at the very latest. However to assist with the early publication of this report the Editor would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the year. Rarities Reports of national rarities must be accompanied by a full description, preferably notes made in the field. Sketches and photographs can be of great assistance. These descriptions should be submitted on the standard rarities form obtainable from the Editor or from M. J. Rogers, 195 Vicarage Road, Sunbury-on- Thames, Middlesex. Reports of County rarities must be accompanied by a full description — too often it is necessary to disregard reports not substantiated by field notes. County rarities requiring descriptions include:

Red-necked Grebe Sabines Gull Black-necked Grebe Iceland Gull Leachs' Petrel Glaucous Gull Cory's Shearwater Roseate Tern Great Shearwater Arctic Tern Bittern Black Guillemot Purple Heron Little Auk White Stork Long-eared Owl Garganey Woodlark Scaup Richards Pipit Velvet Scoter Tawny Pipit

8 Smew Waxwing Ruddy Duck Nightingale all grey Geese Bluethroat Honey Buzzard Cettis Warbler Red Kite Savis Warbler Harrier Aquatic Warbler Montagus Harrier Barred Warbler Goshawk Yellow-browed Warbler Hobby Wood Warbler (migrants) Spotted Crake all Hippolais Warblers Little Ringed Plover Red-Breasted Flycatcher Dotterel Willow Tit Temmincks Stint Golden Oriole Pectoral Sandpiper Tree Sparrow Buff-breasted Sandpiper Serin Red-necked Phalarope Scarlet Rosefinch Pomarine Skua Lapland Bunting Long-tailed Skua Ortolan Bunting Mediterranean Gull Cirl Bunting

Additionally, the Recorder may at any time request full details of an unusual occurrence.

Records should follow the order shown in this Report, and not in alphabetical or diary form. Adherence to these basic guidelines will greatly facilitate the extraction of information from your notes. S. M. Christophers

Contributors

Bazeley, Miss M.E. Alexander, K. & W. Andrew, R. Beecroft, H.R. & M.J. Aley, P. Ansell, W.F.H. Belringer, R.M. Allen, Mrs. B. Aston, A.E.C. Best, J. Allen, R. Balchin, C.S. Birkin, M.J. Allison, R.I. Barker, D.J. & Mrs. D.C. Blewett, M.

9 British Birds Rarities Golley, M.A. Poynton, Mrs. R. Committee Gould, R.W. Prophet, A.I. Bottomley, J.B. & S. Grace, E. Puzey, A. Bowden, N.A.G. & P.N. Graham, M. Randall, J.M. Bray, P.K. Griffiths, E. Rayment, M.D. Brenchley, R.S. Hallett, M.A. Reed, B. Brodie, E. Hanlon, V.J. Renals, T. Bundy, T.J. Hannaford, R. Ridley, J.M.W. Bury, S. Harris, M. Rigby, Mrs. C. Butts, R. Harrison, P. Robinson, H.P.K. Cabbie, Miss N. Harrop, A.H.J. Robinson, Mr. & Mrs.S.C. Callender, I.A. Harvey, H.J. Rogers, R.H. Carne, T.M. Hastings, R.C.F. Rosier, A.B. Chappell, J. Hathway, R. Rowe, Mrs. J. Chesborough, P.S. Hawkey, J. Rutter, P.A. & Mrs. J.E. Head, G.C. Salmon, R.J. Chown, D.J. Henwood, Dr. B.P. Semmens, M.P. Christophers, S.M. Hill, B.J. Sillifant, P.T. & Mrs. A.D. Hollow, Mr. & Mrs. M. Smaldon, R. Christophers, E.M. Hosking, A.C. Speak, P. & H.M. Hutchings, S.C. Spong, P. Christophers, B.T.S. Hyde, P.D. Sutton, G.P. Clarke, S.D. Inch, B.T. & Mrs. D.F. Sykes, T.K. Clift, Canon D. Jackson, G.C. Taffs, H. Conbeer, J. Jerram, Miss R.M. Taylor, W. Conway, G.J. John, A.W.G. Thomas, Prof. A.C. Cook, E.J. Johns, Mrs. S.D. Thomas, D.L. Cooper, J.F. & D. Jones, Miss M.J. Thomas, G.H. Couch, F.M. Keay, H.C. Tompsett, G.C. Cox, Dr. A.F.J. Kelley, D.F. Tonking, C.N. Craven, B.T. Kendall, F.H.C. Toomer, Dr. D. Creber, J. Kendall, I. Tout, M.C. Crispin, P.R.T, Kendall, G.M. Treleaven, R.B. Crossley, R. King, B. Trewhella, R. Cull, S.B. Lenton, H.L. Tucker, V.R. Culwick, E.G. Lord, N.A.G. Turner, S.J. Davies, Mrs. P. Love, D.M. & Dr. L.F.C. Turpitt, Miss L.W. Davies, S. McCartney, P. Tyler, M.W. Davies, T.G. McVey, P. Upton, G.J. Davison, J. Madge, S.C. Visick, Mrs. P. Dean, A.R. Mason, R.L. Wake, R.E. Delacour, W. Mather, P. Walbridge, G. Dingle, T.J. Maycock, K.W. Walker, D. Duff, A. Mellow, B.K. Warren, A.J.E. Dukes, P.A. Miller, J.A. d' E.M. Warriner, R.E. Dustow, J. Nienow, P.W. Watson, P. Dwyer, P.J. Northcott, W.C. Webb, L. Evenden, B.G. Oakes, L. & H.M. Webb, R. Exelby, N.B. Pattenden, B. White, G.R. & Mrs. M. Eyre, J.A. Pay, A. Wicks, S. Field, B.R. Payne, A. Wilbourn, C. Finch, J.H. Payne, C. Wilcox, P.R. Finch, P.E. Pellow, K. Williams, L.P. Fisher, S.P. Penhallurick, R.D. Wills, P. Flumm, D.S. Perkins, T.R. Witcomb, R.G. Frost, M.P. & Mrs. R.A. Pett, J.C. Woodward, A. Gideon Jones, R. Phillips, Miss R.M. Wright, B.A. Gilbert, D. Pilbeam, S. Young Ornithologists Gilbert, J.S. Powell, L.S. & E.M. Club

10 Species List for 1983

The following species are in the order shown in Dr. K. H. Voous' List of Recent Holarctic Species 1977. Please note the following definitions: (a) reference to "" includes the area south of a line drawn from Cam Les Boel to St. Levan. (b) "Mount's Bay" refers only to that part of the bay between and . (c) "" — and not the Bay of the same name at . (d) "Pentire" — the headland north of . (e) "Porthmear" — near , and not St. Ives. All species noted on the Cornish mainland in 1983 are included in this Report. Where a record has been accepted by the Rarities Committee, this fact is stated. Under the majority of species, sightings are listed in date order, i.e. localities with January sightings are listed first, locations with December sightings are listed last. This avoids dividing the County into geographical areas which can cause considerable confusion when extracting data.

RED-THROATED DIVER — Uncommon Winter Visitor. Passage migrant

During the first Winter period and Spring, the species was evenly distributed on both coasts, with no location being particularly favoured. There was a small influx between February 5th and 22nd with the main Spring passage occurring between March 1st and 14th. There was a further light Spring passage along the South coast between May 7th and 22nd. In the Autumn odd birds were noted during the gale of September 3rd and then low numbers were recorded from October 8th to the end of the year, mainly off the North coast. Singles, unless stated otherwise. Towan Head: Jan. 4th and 5th; Feb. 22nd; 5 March 14th; 1 (west) Nov. 26th; 3 (west) Nov. 27th. Varley Head: 6 Jan. 9th. Northcott Mouth: Jan. 13th. Porthpean: Jan. 23rd. Tregantle: Feb. 5th and March 26th. Estuary: Feb. 7th and 23rd; but 2 from March 1st to 7th and one remaining to April 5th. Bude: 3 Feb. 9th; singles Feb. 11th; March 5th and April 11th; 3 Sept. 3rd; and Dec. 25th; 6 Dec. 26th (all south) Camel Estuary: Feb. 18th and March 3rd; 2 March 12th; 1 Nov. 8th to Dec. 3rd. Par: Feb. 19th. Gribbin Head: Feb. 19th. Fowey Estuary: Feb. 19th. Gannel Estuary: Feb. 22nd. St. Ives: Feb. 27th; 2 March 1st and April 27th and the following all flying west 1 Sept. 3rd; 2 Oct. 16th; singles Oct. 28th, Nov. 27th, Dec. 10th and 26th. St. Johns Lake/Lynher Estuary: Nov. 27th; Dec. 10th and 26th, March 3rd to April 3rd; Nov. 18th to 21st. Bay: April 9th. : April 9th. : May 8th. : 2 May 7th and singles 13th and 22nd (all west). Porthgwarra: May 14th; Dec. 18th (both west). : Oct. 8th and 16th (west). Pendeen: 2 Oct. 10th and one (west) Nov. 27th.

11 : 2 Oct. 10th (west). Mount's Bay: Oct. 24th; Nov. 24. : Nov. 14th (west). Unusual were singles inland at Drift, Feb. 19th to 26th and , March 9th.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Much more numerous on the South coast, with the Gerrans Bay to Dodman area, again supporting the largest numbers. Gerrans Bay, , , and Dodman sightings probably refer to the same mobile birds. It is apparent, however, that the total number of birds wintering in this area has decreased substantially over the last few years. Spring passage appears to have occurred mainly between March 6th and April 14th. Autumn and Second Winter numbers were very low. Gerrans Bay: Noted until May 12th and from Oct. 10th. Monthly maxima: 2 Jan. 10th to 28th; 21 Feb. 27th; 15 March 27th; 26 April 15th; 8 May 2nd; 6 Oct. 27th; 14 Nov. 19th; 24 Dec. 25th. Portholland: 30 March 8th. Portscatho: 35 March 8th. Dodman: 15 Jan. 29th; 22 Feb. 26th; 2 March 26th; 3 April 4th. Carnsew Pool: 1 Jan. 1st to Feb. 21st; 2 Feb. 24th to April 12th; with one remaining to April 30th and one from Dec. 10th into 1984. To wan Head: Jan. 4th to 19th; singles west Oct. 16th and Nov. 26th. St. Ives Bay: Jan. 9th and May 31st; 2 Oct. 16th and Nov. 27th; 4 Dec. 10th; 1 Dec. 26th; 2 Dec. 27th. Rosemullion Head: 3 Jan. 9th. Bude: 2 Jan. 16th; 11 Feb. 13th; 1 March 3rd; April 5; May 1st; 3 Dec. 26th. Gribbin Head: Feb. 19th. Helford: Feb. 19th. : Feb. 26th. Mount's Bay: 6 March 7th; 1 March 11th; 7 March 19th; 6 March 26th; 1 March 27th; 1 April 9th; 5 April 14th; 1 April 23rd; 1 May 27th. Porthgwarra: 2 March 12th; singles May 14th and Dec. 5th (all west). Camel Estuary: 2 March 12th. Portwrinkle: March 19th; 4 April 9th. Polhawn Cove: March 20th to 26th. Tregantle: March 26th. Bay: 2 March 27th. Par: March 27th to April 4th; dead adult Nov. 26th. Seaton: 4 March 27th. Rame Head: 2 May 7th; 1 May 13th. Looe: 1 (west) May 8th. Head: 1 (west) Sept. 10th. Bay: Nov. 17th. Trevose Head: Dec. 12th. Sennen: Dec. 17th. Unusual was one inland at Siblyback Reservoir, Jan. 9th to 23rd.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Evenly distributed in small numbers on both coasts in both winter periods. There was a small late Spring passage between April 2nd and June 5th. Gerrans Bay: Noted from Jan. 1st to May 22nd, with a maximum of 8 March 26th and from Oct. 27th to the end of the year, with a maximum of three on Dec. 22nd. St. Ives Bay: 1 Jan. 1st to 19th, but 3 Jan. 5th; 1 March 27th and 1 in winter plumage on the late date of June 1st to 6th. In autumn singles Oct. 5th, 7th and 12th; 2 Oct. 16th and 17th; singles Oct. 19th and 21st; 6 Nov. 27th; 4 Dec. 9th; 6

12 Dec. 10th; 3 Dec. 26th; 2 Dec. 27th to end of year. Seaton/: Up to 8 Jan. 1st to April 9th; 1 Nov. 24th. Carnsew Pool: 1 or 2 Jan. 1st to Feb. 12th; 2 Dec. 10th into 1984. Mounts Bay: Jan. 4th to 26th; April 13th to 30th; June 6th; Oct. 24th into 1984. To wan Head: Jan. 4th to 30th; Oct. 16th; Nov. 26th (west); 3 Nov. 27th (west); 1 Dec. 10th into 1984. Portwrinkle: 4 (west) Jan. 8th; 1 Oct. 18th. Rosemullion Head: Jan. 9th. Bay: Jan. 16th. Porthpean: 2 Jan. 17th. Bay: 2 Jan. 19th; 1 Jan. 22nd; 3 Feb. 27th; 2 Oct. 19th. Mevagissey: Jan. 19th; 2 Jan. 29th and March 19th. Gribbin Head: 3 Feb. 19th; 1 April 23rd. Camel Estuary: 1 Feb. 24th; 2 March 19th and 20th; 1 Nov. 14th to 16th; and up to 4 from Nov. 18th to end of year. Swanpool: 1 Feb. 26th; 4 March 9th. Par Bay: 1 or 2 Feb. 27th to Mayt 26th, but 5 March 27th. : March 6th. Polhawn Cove: 2 March 8th. Pentire Point: April 4th. Looe: April 10th to May 7th, but 2 May 8th; also 2 (west) Oct. 22nd; 3 Nov. 26th; 1 Dec. 10th; 8 Dec. 20th. Rame Head: 5 (3 west and 2 east) April 16th; 1 (west) May 7th. Porthgwarra: 1 (west) May 10th. : 1 in summer plumage June 5th. Porth Isaac: Sept. 8th. Loe Bar: Oct. 1st. Trevose Head: 1 (east) Oct. 24th; 2 (east) Nov. 14th; 2 (west) Nov. 18th; 1 Dec. 9th to 31st. Sennen: Oct. 27th; Dec. 5th, but 2 Dec. 18th. Millendreath: Oct. 26th. : Nov. 17th and 27th. Praa Sands: 3 Nov. 22nd. Helford: Nov. 29th. Unusual was one inland at Siblyback Reservoir from Jan. 9th to 23rd (accompanying the Black-Throated Diver, previously mentioned). LITTLE GREBE — Breeds in low numbers. Resident. Winter visitor. There appears to have been a dramatic decline in the number of breeding birds, with breeding proved only at Stithians this year. A juvenile, still retaining its striped head, was seen on the East Looe River in Autumn, but the species did not breed there. SCM. Noted during both Winter periods at the usual sites. Unexceptional numbers were reported during the first Winter period, but records indicate minor influxes Jan. 11th to 22nd and March 5th to 27th. Apart from Stithians, the first reported in Autumn were three at Loe Pool on July 29th. Relatively heavy Autumn migration occurred between Oct. 26th and Nov. 8th and again between Nov. 12th and Dec. 2nd. This latter movement coinciding with a good passage of other waterfowl. Maximum numbers noted during the year: Par: 15 Jan. 18th. Lynher Estuary: 10 Jan. 22nd. Swanpool: 11 March 15th. Carnsew Pool: 11 March 27th; 22 Oct. 26th; 33 Nov. 23rd; 35 Dec. 2nd (this last flock would appear to be the largest concentration ever recorded in Cornwall). Loe Pool: 13 Nov. 6th. Marazion: 20 Nov. 8th.

13 Camel Estuary: 10 Nov. 18th.

Very unusual was one on a small pool at Common on Sept. 5th. AWGJ.

GREAT-CRESTED GREBE — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. An exceptionally poor year, but the June records are notable. How long before a pair settle down to breed? St. Johns Lake/Lynher Estuary: 4 From 1982 to March 20th, but 5 Feb. 19th to 20th and 6 Feb. 26th; 2 May 2nd; one in summer plumage at Millbrook Lake June 20th to 27th, also 1 from Oct. 8th into 1984, but 2 Nov. 20th. Tamar Estuary: 1 Feb. 13th (was probably one of the above). Stithians Res.: 1 Feb. 24th to March 10th; 2 Aug. 30th; 1 Sept. 4th to 6th; and Sept. 22nd to 24th. Drift. Res.: 1 June 20th. Crowdy Res.: 1 Aug. 10th to 14th. Loe Pool: 1 Dec. 21st into 1984.

RED-NECKED GREBE — Scarce winter visitor. All singles. Carnsew Pool: Jan. 27th. GCH. Drift Res.: Feb. 24th to March 8th HPKR. MPS. LPW; Dec. 21st MPS. St. Ives Bay: Oct. 1st. GCT. Porthpean: Nov. 23rd. SMC. BTSC.

SLAVONIAN GREBE — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Another species which was particularly scarce, especially in the second winter period. A light spring passage was noted between March 3rd and April 19th. Carnsew Pool/Hayle Est.: Up to 3 Jan. 1st to April 19th but 4 Jan. 8th and Feb. 13th with a late bird on May 3rd. Also 2 from Dec. 18th into 1984. St. John Lake: 1 Jan. 1st to 5th; 2 Jan. 6th; 1 Dec. 24th into 1984. Lynher Est.: 1 Jan. 8th and 16th; 1 Dec. 29th. Gerrans Bay: Noted Jan. 8th to April 17th with a max. of 5 March 17th; 1 Nov. 9th to Dec. 12th. Par Beach Pool: 2 Jan. 18th. Camel Estuary: 2 Jan. 19th; 3 Jan. 29th to Feb. 14th; 6 Feb. 24th; 2 Nov. 4th; 3 Nov. 16th; 4 Nov. 18th to Dec. 1st; 5 Dec. 3rd and 4th with 1 remaining into 1984. St. Just-in-Roseland: 2 Feb. 10th; 3 Feb. 14th to March 27th. Mounts Bay: 1 Feb. 16th; 2 March 7th to 19th; 1 Dec. 3rd and 4th; 2 Dec. 12th and 28th. : 2 Feb. 19th; 4 April 19th. : 2 Feb. 27th. Porthpean: 3 March 3rd. Seaton: 2 March 18th and 19th. Hannafore: 2 Dec. 10th.

Unusual were 3 at Tresemple Pool Nov. 29th. TMC.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE — Scarce winter visitor. All singles. Penolver, The : Jan. 23rd. SP. Loe Pool: Oct. 23rd. JSG. St. Johns Lake: Oct. 25th and Dec. 9th. SCM. Porthgwarra: Oct. 30th. SP. : Dec. 11th to 31st SCH. LPW.

14 FULMAR — Breeds. Resident December to September. Passage migrant.

Breeding season reports were received from; near Bude (3 pairs), Bude (3 pairs), (5 pairs), Hennacliff (4+ pairs), Trebarwith Strand (several), / (50), Newdown Head, Lye Rock, Rumps Point, (8), Watergate Bay (31 to 35), Towan Head (50 + ), Point, (4), Hells Mouth (increase), (5 pairs, + 8 non breeders), Trewavas (17 pairs + 7 non breeders), Polurrian/ (24) and Pigeon Ogo (3 pairs). No breeding records received from the south coast, from to Penlee Point. In spring the only heavy movement reported was 850 west in 2 hours off Porthgwarra April 10th. In autumn there was a massive passage off Towan Head on September 3rd, but surprisingly fewer off St. Ives and very few off the same day. Autumn maximum were: St. Ives: c. 500 west Sept. 3rd; c. 200 west Sept. 10th. Towan Head: 1980+ in 5| hrs. west Sept. 3rd. Rumps Point: 85 + (in 6 hrs.) west Sept. 3rd. Inland there were singles at May 14th and June 18th HPKR, at Aug. 24th JBB and SB, and at on Sept. 2nd JD. Oct./Nov. records were received as follows: Cape Cornwall: 3 west Oct. 16th. St. Ives: 1 west Oct. 16th; 3 west Oct. 17th; 38 west Nov. 27th. Trevose Head: 1 east Oct. 27th; 1 west Nov. 1st; 14 west 25th. Towan Head: 17 west Nov. 26th; 120 Nov. 27th. Single blue phase birds were reported at St. Ives Jan. 15th and Sept. 3rd and at Porthgwarra March 27th and Dec. 18th.

CORY'S SHEARWATER — Scarce passage migrant. RMV Scillonian: 1 Aug. 16th RB. Pendeen: 8 Aug. 21st DCG: 1 Sept. 3rd JFC. DC. Trevose Head: 2 west Aug. 28th MPF. RAF. Towan Head: 2 west Sept. 3rd. SMC. EMC. GJC. St. Ives: 2 Sept. 3rd VRT, but only 1 seen by MO.

GREAT SHEARWATER — Scarce passage migrant Pendeen: 80 Sept. 3rd JFC. DC. St. Ives: 65 Sept. 3rd DSF with lesser numbers reported by MO. Towan Head: 1 Sept. 3rd SMC. EMC. PWN. Rumps Point: 4 Sept. 3rd IAC. Botallack Head: 1 west Sept. 10th HPKR.

SOOTY SHEARWATER — Uncommon passage migrant. A phenomenal year with several new records set. The St. Ives count of 250+ on Sept. 3rd is the highest single day count for the County. The Pendeen and Towan Head totals of Sept. 3rd and 15th respectively were the highest single day counts at those particular sites. The St. Ives bird of Dec. 26th is the latest ever for the County. Porthgwarra: 1 west July 2nd; 1 west Aug. 24th; 8 west Sept. 4th. Penolver: 2 west July 26th. Pendeen: 232 Sept. 3rd; 2 Sept. 4th; 1 Sept. 11th and 17th. St. Ives Island: 250+ Sept. 3rd; 18 Sept. 4th; 2 Sept. 10th; 4 Sept. 11th; 15 Sept. 15th; 25 Sept. 16th; 1 Oct. 9th; 7 Oct. 16th; 1 Dec. 9th; 1 Dec. 26th. Godrevy: 88 Sept. 3rd; 36 Sept. 15th. Towan Head: 22 Sept. 3rd; 73 (a.m.) +38 (p.m.) Sept. 15th; 2 Oct. 16th. Rumps Point: 26 Sept. 3rd; 8 Sept. 4th.

15 Bude: 1 Sept. 3rd. Park Head: 1 Sept. 4th. : 6 Sept. 4th. Botallack Head: 1 Sept. 10th. Rame Head: 2 Sept. 15th; 1 Oct. 2nd. RMV Scillonian: 2 Sept. 29th; 4 Oct. 1st.

MANX SHEARWATER — Passage migrant. Feeding parties during summer. The first in spring was one off Porthgwarra on March 12th. Spring movements were much more in evidence this year with particularly heavy passage off both coasts. Passage on Sept. 3rd was remarkable with estimates of 20,000 to 50,000 off St. Ives, 23,000 off Pendeen, 8,200 off Towan Head and 3,000 off the Rumps. The remainder of Autumn passage was unspectacular, but with late records off Towan Head Nov. 27th (2) and Dec. 9th (2) and off St. Ives on the same dates (7 and 4 respectively). Other noteable occurrences were a leucistic specimen noted amongst the St. Ives birds of Sept. 3rd and singles found grounded on roads, apparently attracted by lights, at and Maer Lake during the Sept. gales. Max. numbers (apart from Sept. 3rd). Cape Cornwall: 10,000 (SW) 2 hours April 3rd. Porthgwarra: 2,000+ west in 1 hour, April 3rd; 2,500 west in 2 hours April 10th. St. Ives: 7,000+ in 1 hour April 8th.

BALEARIC SHEARWATER — Uncommon passage migrant.

A sub species from the western Mediterranean (P.p. mauretanicus). In view of the heavy passage of the majority of other pelagic species, totals for this sub-species were relatively low. Perhaps, this can be attributed to a dearth of southerly biased winds in autumn. Porthgwarra: singles June 4th and 25th; 2 Sept. 4th HPKR. Rame Head: 1 Aug. 20th; 2 Aug. 21st; 1 Sept. 1st PA. BRF. RWG. AHJH. Pendeen: Singles Aug. 28th DCG and Sept. 17th HPKR. Rumps Point: 18 Sept. 3rd IAC. St. Ives Island: 35+ Sept. 3rd; 4 Sept. 10th; 2 Sept. 16th; 1 Sept. 21st; 2 Oct. 9th; 1 Oct. 15th; 7 Oct. 16th; 1 Oct. 17th MO. Bottallack Head: 1 Sept. 10th HPKR. Towan Head: Singles Sept. 3rd RH and Oct. 16th PJD.

WILSONS PETREL — Very rare vagrant. St. Ives Island: 2 possibly 3 Sept. 3rd BRF. VRT. BTC. DSF. EG. AHJH. MPS. RS. LPW et al. The third county record. One accepted by BBRC.

STORM PETREL — Uncommon passage migrant. Feeding flocks in summer. Unusually, several seen off the south coast in Spring during gales. Good numbers seen off Towan Head in June, even on the calmest days with off-shore winds. The sea watch of September 3rd is already legend and no species contributed more to this memorable day than Storm Petrel. At both St. Ives and Towan Head, early morning passage was slow with a gradual build-up to mid-day and early afternoon. At both sites, thousands were feeding at sewage outfalls. At times off Towan Head, the surface of the sea was black with Storm Petrels. At St Ives, small groups would break away from the main flock and battle their way around the Island into the teeth of the gale. Comparatively few were seen the following day and none on September 5th. Porthgwarra: 1 (east) May 6th; 112 (west) on the 18th; 18 May 20th; 2 May 22nd; 25 June 4th; 2 June 11th; 1 July 2nd; 9 Sept. 3rd; 840 Sept. 4th HPKR. RMB.

16 LPW. St. Ives Island: 10 May 14th; 1 Aug. 11th GCH; 10,000+ Sept. 3rd VRT et al. 300 Sept. 4th; 2 Sept. 10th; c. 50 Sept. 11th; 6 Sept. 15th; 7 Sept. 16th; 3 Sept. 19th; 200+ Sept. 24th; 1 Oct. 11th; 5 Oct. 15th; 70 Oct. 16th; 25 Oct. 17th PA. DSF. VRT et al. Gribbin Head: 27 May 14th GJC. Seaton: 1 May 15th SCM; 2 Sept. 4th SCM. AECA. Newlyn: 60+ May 16th RDP. Looe: 6 May 16th; 20+ May 17th; 6 May 19th (1 eaten by Great Black-backed Gull on the 16th) SCM. Tregantle: 1 May 17th SCM. Towan Head: 62 June 4th; 15 June 8th; 16 June 11th; 12 June 13th; 68 June 16th; LW. SMC. EJC. GJC: 3,000+ Sept. 3rd SMC. EMC et al. 50+ Sept. 4th PJD. SMC; 2 Sept. 8th RH: 8 Oct. 16th SMC. EMC; 1 Oct. 17th EJC. PJD. RMV Scillonian: 10 June 4th MPS: 2 June 18th KP; 1 Aug. 16th RB; 15 Oct. 1st SCM. Wolf Rock: 10 Oct. 19th LPW. 14 miles s. Dodman: 3 July 20th GJC. Rumps Point: 1 Aug. 1st GJC; 4,000+ 3rd Sept. IAC. RGW: 1 Oct. 16th GJC. Trevose Head: 100 Sept. 1st PD. Rame Head: 1 Sept. 2nd AHJH; 5 Sept. 4th RWG. Bude: 6 Sept. 3rd; RHCK. MAG. (3 picked up alive, died later GPS). : 1 Sept. 3rd SBC. Park Head: 170 Sept. 3rd; 1 Sept. 4th JD. Pendeen: 8,800 Sept. 3rd JFC. DC; 100 Sept. 4th RB. 12 Sept. 11th HPKR. Penolver: 30 Sept. 3rd SP. Kelsey: 91 + Sept. 3rd; 5 Sept. 4th AWGJ. Loe Bar: 4 Sept. 4th JSG. Downderry: 1 Sept. 4th SCM. Botallack Head 1 Sept. 10th HPKR.

LEACH'S PETREL — Scarce passage migrant (mainly Autumn)

The Seaton records are very interesting. Not only are spring records very rare but south-east coast records are unusual. Not surprisingly a few were identified amongst the Stormies on September 3rd, with good numbers on several days later in the month and in October. Seaton: Singles May 15th and 18th SCM. AECA. Pendeen: 1 Sept. 3rd JFC. DC; 3 Sept. 11th HPKR. St. Ives: 15 Sept. 3rd; EG et al. 21 Sept. 10th PA. BRF. MPS. et al. 12 Sept. 11th; DSF et al; 1 Sept. 15th RC. 2 Oct. 11th DSF; 15 Oct. 16th VRT. et al; 9 Oct. 17th DSF. Towan Head: 2 Sept. 3rd PWN; 3 Sept. 10th SMC et al; 1 Sept. 11th JH; 1 Sept. 15th JH; 4 Sept. 16th SMC. FMC. RH; 5 Oct. 16th SMC. EMC. Park Head: Singles Sept. 3rd and 4th JD. Rumps Point: Singles Sept. 3rd IAC. Oct. 16th GJC. Bude: 4 Sept. 3rd FHCK. IK. MAG. (1 found alive in town centre died later GPS). Porthgwarra: 15 Sept. 4th HPKR. RMB. Cape Cornwall: 1 Sept. 15th ARP.

GANNET — Passage migrant. Winter and Summer visitor. With the exception of the first four records below, very few were reported anywhere until massive movement of September 3rd. There were further movements on October 16th and November 27th, but away from Pendeen none reported between then and the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: 670 West Jan. 29th; 2,000+ West in one hour March 12th; 1,000 West April 10th. The Lizard: 1,458 West in one hour Feb. 27th. Pendeen: 25,000 Sept. 3rd; 1,000 Nov. 27th. St. Ives: 20,000+ Sept. 3rd; c. 20,000 Oct. 16th. Towan Head: 6,600+ Sept. 3rd; 2,700 Oct. 16th. Rumps Point: 3,500 Sept. 3rd. Cape Cornwall: 3,000 Oct. 16th. Unusual was one flying West at Towan Head on September 3rd, with what appeared to be a yellow duster hanging from its bill. SMC. EMC. PNW.

CORMORANT — Breeds. Resident. Grossly under recorded with breeding reported at only three sites. There were inland records from all the usual sites with the most unusual being one at Priory Pool, Bodmin on August 2nd MWT. Largest concentrations: : 62 Sept. 30th. St. Ives Island: 35 flew West Oct. 16th. Tamar Estuary: 33 Sept. 11th. St. Johns Lake: 31 Oct. 8th.

SHAG — Breeds. Resident. Breeding was reported from the following sites: Merope Rocks: (20 nests); Carters Rocks: (65 nests); Hells Mouth: (apparent decrease); Rinsey Head: (5 nests — 4 pairs raised, 2 young, 1 pair raised 3 young); Trewavas: (12 nests — 7 raised 2 young, 3 raised 3 young, success at the other 2 nests is unknown); Mullion Island: (55 nests); : (16 nests); Pigeon Ogo: (1 nest with 2 young). Further records were received with no details of success for Newdown Head, Lye Rock, Penhale Point, Rumps Point, Lowland Point, Portloe, Crugmeer, , and near Bude. In the first winter period, the only concentration was 71 off The Lizard on January 24th. In Autumn with the exception of 70 off Towan Head and 21 off the Rumps, there were no reports for September 3rd. The very high total of 306 were counted flying West off Towan Head in two hours after dawn on September 5th. Presumably these were birds which had been storm blown on 3rd. Elsewhere the maximum numbers were: Pendeen 40 Aug. 21st; Porthgwarra 60 Aug. 24th; Penhale Point 56 Aug. 25th; Sennen 43 Aug. 29th; The Lizard 75 Aug. 31st; and St. Ives 50 Dec. 10th. Unusual were 28 fishing vigorously on West Looe River during gales at sea on Sept. 20th — rarely more than an odd bird here. SCM.

BITTERN — Rare winter visitor.

All singles: Maenporth: Jan. 28th SMC. BTSC. (This bird is believed to have been present for some time previously but no other details received). Drift Res.: Feb. 18th BK. Loe Pool: Feb. 18th & Oct. 23rd JSG. : Sept. 29th, Oct. 3rd, 10th & 12th, Nov. 19th and Dec. 3rd JH. BP. MPS. VRT.

LITTLE BITTERN — Rare vagrant Loe Pool: 1 found dead, partly decomposed (probably a male) Aug. 8th JSG. The 18th county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

18 LITTLE EGRET - Vagrant.

St. Clement: Adult May 5th TMC. St. Johns Lake: Oct. 13th-21st KP. BGE. SCM. HT et al. Recorded in each of the last four years. The 21st and 22nd County mainland records. Both accepted by BBRC.

GREY HERON — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant. A welcome increase in the number of breeding season records received. Wood: 3+ nests; Trenant Wood, Looe: 8 nests.; : 3 nests; Marazion: 3 nests — 6 young? raised; Pinskin Creek, Camel Est.: 9 or 10 nests; St. Winnow: 9 nests; Sladesbridge: 6 to 8 nests. Largest gatherings: Marazion Marsh: 22 Jan. 30th; 24 July 9th; 25 Sept. 23rd. Lynher Est.: 28 Feb. 5th. Fal. Est.: 23 Sept. 30th. Possible Migrants: Porthgwarra: 1 (west) July 24th; 1 circling Oct. 23rd. Penolver: 1 (east) Aug. 19th. Rame Head: 1 (south west) Oct. 17th.

PURPLE HERON — Vagrant. : 1 May 16th PAR. Skewjack: 1 flew south May 17th HPKR. Probably only one bird involved. The tenth County mainland record and surprisingly the first since 1980. Bearing in mind the increased frequency of the species in the U.K. and almost annual occurrence in , Purple Heron remains a great rarity in Cornwall.

SPOONBILL — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. A very good year, although the Truro River, and sightings probably refer to the same birds. Lynher Est.: The 1982 bird remained until February 23rd SCM et al.; adult from Oct. 8th into 1984 AECA. PRTC. SCM. KP. RWG. RS et al. Truro River: 2 Jan. 4th to March 6th with 1 remaining to March 12th BPH et al. (These birds had both been ringed as nestlings at Oostvaarderstlassen, Zuid- fieroland, Isselmeerpolders, Holland on the 7th June 1982 RDP). Ruan Lanihorne: 2 March 12th to April 26th JC et al. Philleigh: 2 April 7th GCJ. Marazion/Hayle Est.: 1 sub-adult Oct. 28th commuted between the two locations until last noted on November 14th MPS et al.

MUTE SWAN — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor in low numbers. Moulting herds in late Autumn. Better breeding season coverage was reported but several observers noted that nests were unsuccessful for varying reasons. There has been a dramatic decline on the Camel Estuary, where wintering herds of up to 50 were not unusual in the 1960's and 1970's, whereas the current maximum is less than 20. There was a small passage through the county between November 15th and 30th. Successful breeding was noted at Bude Canal (4 young), Wadebridge area (3 nests built. One pair did not lay. One pair success not known. Female of third pair killed by dog), Froe Creek (7 young), Loe pool (4-3 reared), Coronation Park, Helston (9 — all predated), Stithians (4), College Res. (2), Argal Res. (4), Caerhayes (7), (5), Par Beach Pool (7), Polridmouth (1), East Looe River (3 pairs. 1 young, five young and the third nest unsuccessful), (2 pairs — 3

19 young, second pair unknown) and Millbrook Lake (10 - 8 reared). Pairs were unsuccessful at St. Andrews Pool (Par), Marazion, St. Johns Lake, . At St. Just-in-Roseland 8 eggs were laid, but the nest was flooded. At a nest was built but abandoned before eggs were laid. At Pool a pair attempted to hatch eggs on three occasions but failed. At West Looe, and success was unknown. Maximum numbers: Mylor: 23 Jan. 28th. St. Johns Lake: 45 Sept. 10th; 66 (19 juveniles) Oct. 16th. Mevagissey: 32 Oct. 16th-18th. Looe Est.: 36 (9 juveniles) Oct. 26th. Unusual reports included 2 at Drift Reservoir Jan. 22nd.

BEWICK'S SWAN — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Average numbers with a noticeable passage Oct. 29th to Dec. 4th. Camel Est.: 3 Jan. 1st DML. LFCL. PM. Upper Tamar Res: 2 Oct. 29th increasing to 4 Dec. 3rd and 6 from Dec. 4th to the end of the year GPS. AHJH et al. Near : 4 adults flew south east Oct. 30th SB. Godrevy: 2 adults flew east Nov. 13th DSF. Cape Cornwall: 1 Nov. 20th PSK. : 1 adult Nov. 22nd SMC. Skewjack: 2 adults Dec. 3rd HPKR.

WHOOPER SWAN — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Hayle Est.: An adult Nov. 27th and Dec. 4th SCH. MJJ. PAR. LPW. Probably the same bird involved — a very poor year.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Upper Tamar Res.: 8 (Greenland race) Jan. 4th NAGB. PNB; 2 (1 adult and 1 juvenile) Jan. 13th to Feb. 13th TJD et al; Juvenile Dec. 3rd GPS. The lowest annual total since 1976, with none again at Walmsley Sanctuary.

GREY LAG GOOSE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Upper Tamar Res.: 5 Jan. 13th to Feb. 13th TJD. RMB. FHCK. IK. GPS. Near Sennen: 1 Oct. 25th DSF. Kynance: 1 (eastern race) Nov. 19th SP. Skewjack: 1 Nov. 19th and 20th HPKR.

GOOSE Sp.

Kennards House: 6 March 28th BTC. Godrevy: 1 (flying west) Nov. 14th DSF. Stithians: 4 Nov. 27th SCH.

CANADA GOOSE — Scarce winter visitor. Breeds in low numbers. Lynher Est.: The free flying feral flock reached a peak of 34 on Jan. 23rd and 42 on Oct. 22nd SMC. RH. SCM. RS. Tamar Est.: 2 at Feb. 11th to March 2nd RMB. and 10 flew north east over Aug. 10th EG. Falmouth Area: 1 throughout the year, possibly originated from a semi-feral flock at Maenporth PMcC. JC. LSP. EMP. Par Beach: 2 flew in from the south and landed on a frozen pool Feb. 18th SMC. BTSC. Upper Tamar Res,: A pair from March 5th remained and bred rearing 1 young TJD.

20 FH. CK. IK et al. Crowdy Res.: A pair from March 14th remained and bred rearing 4 young BTC. GPS. SMC et al. Portreath: 2 flying over April 3rd RLM. Stithians: 1 Nov. 24th to Dec. 1st CNT. MCT. SCH. BKM. The origins of the Upper Tamar Res. and Crowdy Res. birds are unknown but the breeding records are the first in the County outside of controlled or semi-controlled conditions. It is certainly interesting that both pairs arrived at a time when other spring migrants were on the move, suggesting a distant origin, rather than dispersal from the resident Lynher Estuary flock.

CACKLING GOOSE — Exceptionally rare vagrant. Six birds showing characteristics of the small Alaskan race of Canada Goose, B.C. minima coloquially known as Cackling Goose, were noted on the Lynher Estuary from Nov. 12th into 1984. They arrived with three Barnacle Geese and joined the resident, free-flying flock of Canada Geese. Although appearing to be 'minima' they could have been birds of the similar 'taverneri' race. Specific identification of small Canada Geese is difficult, with methods of field identification being both obscure and controversial. Neither race is commonly kept in captivity and it is therefore tempting to speculate that these were genuine vagrants — (perhaps a family party) — in common with a few others which have occurred from time to time in Ireland and western Scotland RC. SCM et al. The first record for Cornwall and Isles of Scilly of this superb, tiny goose. SCM has submitted full details to BBRC to test the views of the other members of that panel.

BARNACLE GOOSE — Rare winter visitor.

Goonhilly Downs: 6 July 23rd; 3 July 29th to Aug. 5th EGe. EJC. NBE. two of these birds were ringed and had escaped from Arundel Wildfowl Refuge. They had been ringed as adult females on the 29th July 1982. Presumably the third bird derived from the same locality. St. Johns Lake: 2 (1 immature) Oct. 8th flew towards the River Lyner KP. Lynher Est.: 3 Oct. 8th (presumably the St. Johns Lake birds) KP. SCM. RWG. AECA; 3 Nov. 17th into 1984 RC. SCM. EG. RS et al. Siblyback Res.: 3 Oct. 9th (presumably the Lynher birds) JMR. A goose at Upper Tamar Reservoir from January 13th to February 13th was reported by some observers as a Barnacle Goose. However, although it was similar to a Barnacle, it was larger and in fact slightly exceeded White-Fronted Goose in size. The upper parts and neck were uniform black/grey and the underparts greyish, unmarked and similar to a juvenile White Front. The head pattern was typically Barnacle but with a greyish wash throughout. The bill was similar to that of a Barnacle Goose, but the legs were orange/yellow. Due to its size, it was thought that this bird may possibly be a Barnacle/Grey Leg Goose hybrid, but what about the leg colour? Altogether a very strange bird! FHCK. IK. GPS.

BRENT GOOSE — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Although not present anywhere in large numbers, the widespread scatter of reports in autumn is very interesting. In autumn there were arrivals on September 17th and 18th, Oct. 21st to 24th and Nov. 11th to 22nd, but most appeared to have moved on again in the mild weather of December. Bude: The 1982 bird was last seen Jan. 12th. Camel Est.: 2 Jan. 1st; 8 Sept. 18th; 1 Nov. 11th; 9 Nov. 16th; 1 Nov. 18th; 8 Dec. 10th. St. Johns Lake: 22 remained from 1982 to January 4th; 4 on 15th; 1 on 16th; 5 21st

21 to 31st; 6 March 4th; 5 Nov. 18th; 2 Nov. 20th; 1 Nov. 22nd. Par Beach: 4 March 14th; 6 Oct. 21st; 3 Oct. 22nd to the 30th; 2 Dec. 31st. Marazion: 1 April 22nd and 23rd. Hayle Est.: 1 Oct. 21st; 2 Oct. 22nd to 27th; 2 Nov. 13th; 2 Dec. 17th. St. Ives Bay: 4 Oct. 21st; 1 Nov. 27th. Pentire: 1 Oct. 24th. Loe Pool: 1 Nov. 6th; 5 Nov. 13th to 22nd. Godrevy: 5 Nov. 14th. St. Just-in-Roseland: 4 Nov. 14th. Towan Head: 1 Nov. 15th. Ruan Lanihorne: 4 Nov. 18th. Trevose Head: 13 Nov. 18th. Skewjack: 1 Nov. 19th and 20th. Hannafore: 6 Nov. 22nd; 5 Nov. 26th. Gerrans: 1 Dec. 2nd. Porthgwarra: 1 (flew east) Dec. 5th. Gannel Est.: 1 Dec. 26th into 1984. All of the above refer either to birds reported as dark-bellied or not specifically identified as to race. Two reports of light-bellied birds were received as follows: Hayle Est.: 4 (2 adults and 2 juveniles) Sept. 17th to 21st DSF. GCH. SCM. PAR et al.

Camel Est.: 1 Nov. 29th to Dec. 3rd SMC. EMC. BTSC. FMC et al.

SHELDUCK — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Breeding reports from Lynher Estuary (35 young), Camel Estuary (64 young), Ruan Lanihorne (23 young), Tresillian (6 young) and (31 young). A pair also probably bred at Gerrans Bay, where they were present from April to June. Maximum numbers: : 139 Jan. 22nd. Lynher Est.: 168 Feb. 10th; 130 Dec. 9th. St. Johns Lake: 132 Feb. 10th; 150 March 27th; 206 Dec. 30th. Millbrook Lake: 110 Feb. 27th; 91 Dec. 20th. Ruan Lanihorne: 141 March 31st. Camel Est.: 110 April 14th; 82 Nov. 18th. Elsewhere during the year the maximum numbers reported were Creek (85), Hayle Est. (66), Tresillian (60 + ), River Fal (22). There were much lower numbers at several other sites. Unusual reports: Upper Tamar Res: 1 Jan. 23rd to Feb. 13th. Porthgwarra: 1 April 11th; 5 Oct. 30th. Bussow Res.: 1 Nov. 15th. MANDARIN DUCK — Escapee? Rare passage migrant?

St. Andrews Pool, Par: The female first noted in 1979 was again present until March 3rd and from Oct. 23rd until the end of the year MO. Par Beach Pool: Female Jan. 1st (presumably the St. Andrews Pool bird) and a male Aug. 24th into 1984 MO. (Subsequent enquiries reveal that this bird was an escapee from the Churchtown Field Studies Centre at ) FMC. Of far more interest were the following two records — occurring at a time when there was an incursion of other wildfowl into the county. Retallack: 6 (2 males) Nov. 22nd SMC. JB. Millbrook Lake: 3 (1 male) Nov. 22nd RWG.

WIGEON — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Very low numbers in the first winter period and scarce in spring and autumn. There

22 was a marked increase from mid-October with a further influx in mid-November. Maximum numbers: Ruan Lanihorne: 302 Jan. 8th; 330 Feb. 12th; 130 Dec. 22nd. Hayle Est.: 500 Jan. 15th; 800 Nov. 16th and 17th; and Dec. 2nd. Lynher Est.: 900 Feb. 19th; 1500 Nov. 27th; 15025 Dec. 31st. St. Johns Lake: 1300 Nov. 28th. Elsewhere numbers were very low with the only flock exceeding 100 being 117 on the River Tiddy Jan. 23rd. The maximum at an inland site were 65 at Upper Tamar Res. Nov. 21st. In spring there were singles at Temple Pool April 7th; Maer Lake May 15th and Hayle Est. May 15th and 21st. Unusual reports: Skewjack: 3 Jan. 2nd; 2 Oct. 29th; 16 Nov. 19th; 2 Dec. 31st. Hayle Kimbro Pool: 40 Nov. 19th; 5 Nov. 26th. Retallack: 55 Nov. 22nd; 3 Nov. 27th.

AMERICAN WIGEON — Very rare vagrant.

Loe Pool: Drake Nov. 2nd EGe. and 26th JSG. Accepted by BBRC.

The multiple occurrence in autumn 1982 is still awaiting ratification by BBRC.

GADWALL — Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Very scarce in the first winter period and spring. Rather more in autumn and second winter, with most appearing from mid-November on. The annual late spring and early summer records at Marazion suggest that breeding may occur in the near future, if only a reasonably high water level could be maintained. Stithians: 1 Jan. 1st; pair July 27th; up to 6 Sept. 6th to the end of the year (maximum Oct. 23rd). Upper Tamar Res.: 4 Jan. 23rd and Feb. 9th; pair Feb. 13th to March 30th; up to 3 from Oct. 29th to the end of the year. Camel Est.: Pair Jan. 29th; female April 28th. Hayle Est.: Pair Jan. 12th to Feb. 24th; 1 Oct. 26th, up to 10 from Nove. 14th to the end of the year (max. Dec. 2nd). Par Beach Pool: 7 (5 drakes) Jan. 18th; pair Jan. 20th. Loe Pool: 2 females Feb. 6th; pair April 12th to 16th; female April 23rd; up to 4 from Oct. 14th to the end of the year (max. Nov. 20th). Marazion Marsh: 1 or 2 March 14th to May 8th; drake June 2nd to 13th; 1 Sept. 22nd; 2 Nov. 29th. Drift Res.: 2 April 13th; 1 to 3 Nov. 18th to the end of the year (max. Nov. 18th). Skewjack: 2 April 14th; 1 Sept. 29th to October 4th; 5 Oct. 24th to the 30th; 4 Nov. 20th. Crowdy Res.: Drake Sept. 7th. Lynher Est.: 2 females Oct. 20th; 3 Oct. 25th; a pair Nov. 18th. : A pair Oct. 23rd. Porth Res.: Drake Nov. 8th. Bude : 4 (2 drakes) Nov. 19th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: 2 Nov. 21st. College Res.: 18 Nov. 30th; 3 (2 drakes) Dec. 26th. Gannel Est.: 5 (2 drakes) Dec. 9th. Landulph: 3 (2 drakes) Dec. 13th.

TEAL — Occasionally breeds. Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

A female with 5 well grown young at Crowdy Res. June 14th was the only indication of breeding RS. The largest numbers noted during the year were in the second winter period with a

23 considerable arrival Oct. 6th to the 9th and again Nov. 12th to the 19th Maximum numbers: Calenick Creek: 140 Jan. 3rd; 160 Jan. 8th; 100+ Oct. 9th. Lynher Est.: 200 Jan. 12th; 180 Nov. 20th. Millbrook Lake: 100 Jan. 29th. Porth Res.: 85 Feb. 14th; 221+ Nov. 19th. Hayle Est.: 161 Feb. 24th; 260 Nov. 17th; 270 Dec. 18th. Tamar Est.: 120+ March 5th. Ruan Lanihorne: 150 Oct. 6th. Drift Res.: 160 Dec. 17th. Maer Lake: 130 Dec. 23rd. Although noted at all the usual sites during the year, Stithians with 110 on Sept. 6th was the only other site to hold more than 100 birds at any one time.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL — Vagrant. The North American race. (A.c. Carolinensis) of the Teal. Hayle Est.: The 1982 bird remained into 1983 and was last seen Jan. 20th. MO. Skewjack: Drake Feb. 13th HPKR. (presumably this was the Hayle Est. bird). Both accepted by BBRC.

MALLARD — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Scarce in first winter period, but the usual gatherings of moulting birds in Autumn at Crowdy Res. and Camel Est. and better numbers in the second winter period. Breeding was reported from Loe Pool, St. Just-in-Roseland, Landulph, Upper Tamar Res., Crowdy Res., Stithians Res., Padstow, Marazion Marsh, Bude, (Truro), Lane (Newquay), Helston Amenity Area and Hayle Kimbro Pool. Maximum numbers: Lynher Est.: 120 Feb. 8th; 210 Oct. 8th. Camel Est.: 105 Aug. 24th; 137 Nov. 7th. Crowdy Res.: 176 Aug. 25th; 279 Aug. 30th; 200 Sept. 17th. Tamar Lake: 200 early Oct.; 150 Dec. 31st. Dozmary Pool: 100 Oct. 8th. Loe Pool: 200 Oct. 29th. Hannafore: 100 Dec. 31st.

PINTAIL — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. With the exception of the Lynher Est. the species was very scarce throughout the year. A few years ago the Camel Est. was referred to as the main wintering area for the species in Cornwall, but this is no longer the case. Lynher Est. noted until Feb. 13th with a max. of 34 on Jan. 4th and 31 on Feb. 13th and again from Oct. 20th to the end of the year, with monthly max. of 12 Oct. 25th, 22 Nov. 18th and 31 Dec. 31st. Tamar Lake: Female Jan. 23rd; 2 drakes Feb. 9th; 1 Sept. 4th to 17th; 3 (1 drake) Oct. 29th; female Nov. 6th; drake Dec. 29th to 31st. St. Johns Lake: 3 (1 drake) Feb. 5th; drake Feb. 18th; 5 (1 drake) Feb. 26th; 1 Oct. 4th. Crowdy Res.: Drake Feb. 8th to 16th; 1 Sept. 17th. Par Beach Pool: Pair Feb. 26th; and a very tame drake March 1st to 27th. Marazion Marsh: Drake Jan. 10th; 2 (flying over) March 1st. Camel Est.: 2 Sept. 2nd; 3 (1 drake) Oct. 4th to Dec. 1st; drake Dec. 12th. Towan Head: 3 (2 drakes) flew west Sept. 15th. Dozmary Pool: 4 Oct. 8th. Skewjack: Singles Oct. 21st and Nov. 19th. Helston Amenity Area: Female Nov. 8th. Loe Pool: 4 females Nov. 14th and 15th with 2 remaining to Dec. 4th and a drake

24 Dec. 18th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: 4 (2 drakes) Nov. 19th to 21st; 2 females Nov. 27th. Hayle Est.: Female Nov. 20th and Dec. 2nd. Drift Res.: 2 females Nov. 21st.

GARGANEY — Scarce passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. Breeding was noted at one location where two juveniles were seen on Aug. 27th. Otherwise an average year. Skewjack: 2 drakes March 5th; with one remaining to March 19th HPKR. VRT. Hayle Kimbro Pool: Female March 13th and 19th; pair March 27th to April 17th and a drake May 5th to 15th EGe. PMcC. RB. SCH. Marazion Marsh: Pair April 10th to the 15th; 1 April 22nd GCH. SMC. BP. MPS.

Stithians Res.: 1 Oct. 1st DJC. MAH.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL — Rare vagrant. Tamar Lake: A female or immature Sept. 22nd. FHCK. IK. JCP. Recorded in six consecutive years. The 10th County mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

SHOVELER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant in low numbers.

Very low numbers throughout the year. Stithians Res.: 4 Jan. 1st; 1 Jan. 10th; 3 Feb. 28th; 4 April 2nd; 3 drakes April 11th; 5 (3 drakes) April 19th; 1 Aug. 12th; 2 Sept. 6th; 3 Oct. 17th; 1 Nov. 18th; 2 Dec. 13th and 22nd. Skewjack: 2 Jan. 2nd to 22nd; 1 Aug. 27th to Sept. 3rd; 1-3 Oct. 29th to Dec. 10th. Loe Pool: 4 Jan. 2nd; 2 Feb. 13th; drake Aug. 14th; 3 Sept. 3rd; 1 Oct. 23rd and Nov. 15th. Marazion Marsh: 8 (5 drakes) Jan. 10th; 3 (2 drakes) April 5th; 6 June 20th; drake Nov. 17th; a pair Nov. 22nd and 29th; up to 6 to the end of the year. Par Beach Pool: 8 Jan. 15th; 11 (7 drakes) Jan. 18th, decreasing thereafter to a single drake on March 3rd; 8 (1 drake) Nov. 11th. Upper Tamar Res.: 6 (3 drakes) Jan. 20th; 8 Jan. 23rd; 2 drakes March 5th to 20th; 2 drakes Dec. 18th; a pair Dec. 31st. Landulph: 2 Jan. 29th and Feb. 11th. Lynher Est.: a pair Feb. 16th; 3 Oct. 20th; 1 Nov. 18th; 5 Dec. 17th. Polridmouth: 6 (5 drakes) Feb. 19th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: 15 (7 drakes) Feb. 20th; 2 March 13th. Hayle Est.: 2 Feb. 21st; 1 Feb. 24th; 3 drakes April 26th; 2 drakes Nov. 7th. Drift. Ref.: 2 Feb. 24th; 4 Dec. 11th. Helston Park Lake: a drake March 20th. Siblyback Res.: 1 Aug. 27th. Dozmary Pool: 2 Oct. 8th to 16th; 5 (2 drakes) Nov. 29th. Camel Est.: 1 female Nov. 1st. Near Sennen: 1 Nov. 20th. Retallack: a drake Nov. 22nd. Porthpean: 2 females on the sea with Scoter Nov. 23rd. Porth Res.: a pair Nov. 26th and Dec. 22nd. Colliford Res.: 7 Dec. 7th. St. Johns Lake: 1 Dec. 17th. 25 POCHARD — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

There has been no recurrence of the isolated breeding record at Crowdy Res. in 1977. Once again, very low numbers — there has not been a single gathering in the County exceeding 100 since 1979. A widespread movement occurred between Nov. 2nd and 26th, when the species was recorded at several unusual localities. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est.: 40 Jan. 7th. Loe Pool: 30 Jan. 9th; 32 Nov. 30th. Par Beach Pool: 30 Jan. 15th and Nov. 26th. College Res.: 35 Jan. 17th. Tamar Lake: 98 Jan. 23rd; 97 Nov. 17th. Dozmary Pool: 35 Nov. 12th. Porth Res.: 40 Nov. 13th; 67 Nov. 26th; 63 Dec. 22nd. Retallack: 34 Nov. 22nd. Unusual reports: : 11 Nov. 2nd. Trevose Head: 7 flew north west Nov. 7th. Reskajeage: 18 flew west Nov. 13th. Near Sennen: 1 Nov. 20th. First and Last Dates: Par Beach Pool: Female June 12th. Loe Pool: Female July 8th.

TUFTED DUCK — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Occasionally breeds.

Breeding was reported from Crowdy Res. where a pair with six young was seen July 31st GPS. At Loe Pool JSG observed a pair mating in April and although they remained throughout the breeding season no young were seen. The species was even scarcer than Pochard during the year, with the highest second winter counts being noted Nov. 6th to 30th. Maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: 52 Jan. 8th; 40 Nov. 6th. Swanpool: 38 Jan. 11th; 40 Jan. 28th and Feb. 17th. Porth Res.: 30 Jan. 22nd and Feb. 4th; 38 Nov. 26th. Loe Pool: 28 March 12th; 30 Nov. 30th. No other site held more than 20 at any one time. June records were received for Millbrook (a drake on the 1st), Marazion Marsh (a drake 2nd and 3rd), Skewjack (a drake 5th-9th), Siblyback Res. (a drake on 9th), Loe Pool (2 drakes on 21st). Unusual reports: St. Ives Island: A drake flew west Aug. 23rd. Carnsew Pool: 4 Oct. 23rd; 1 Oct. 30th. Near Sennen: 3 Oct. 25th; 1 Nov. 20th; 10 Dec. 4th and 12 Dec. 21st. Retallack: A drake Nov. 27th. Lake: 3 Nov. 28th.

SCAUP — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Another poor year. Observers are reminded that descriptions are required for this species and in particular with females and immatures attention should be paid to the bill markings. Skewjack: Singles Jan. 8th and Nov. 19th HPKR. Par Beach Pool: Female Jan. 15th to 25th MPF. RAF et al; female Sept. 25th JC.

26 Newquay Bay: A drake March 31st PWN. Drift Res.: Female May 4th to 9th MPS. SMC. BTSC. HPKR; a drake Sept. 15th to 20th PKB. DSF. HCK. ARP. MPS et al. Loe Pool: Female Sept. 3rd; drake Nov. 15th JSC Near Sennen: 2 Oct. 22nd RB. , River Tamar: Female Nov. 17th RC. College Res.: Females Nov. 29th and 30th PMcC; Dec. 26th TRP.

EIDER — Uncommon winter visitor. A better year than 1982 with a notable arrival in the second winter period, from Nov. 13th. The Lizard: Up to 11 Jan. 1st to April 25th and a female Dec. 4th. Mounts Bay: Noted from Jan. 8th (4) to March 19th (1) with a max. of 7 Jan. 28th to 30th. Also singles May 12th to 20th; Sept. 12th and Dec. 12th. Rosemullion Head: 3 females flew south Feb. 23rd. Dodman Head: 5 (3 drakes) Feb. 26th. St. Johns Lake: A pair Feb. 27th; April 16th and 18th; 2 females Dec. 9th, remaining into 1984. Swanpool: 2 females March 5th. Par Bay: Female March 13th and immature male March 19th. : Immature male March 31st (probably the Par bird). Rame Head: 1 flew east May 7th. Rinsey Head: 2 females June 5th. Widemouth: Female Nov. 13th. Reskajeage: Immature male Nov. 15th. Camel Est.: Female from Nov. 16th into 1984; immature male Nov. 27th to 29th; 5 Dec. 28th. Hayle Est.: 2 females Nov. 16th and 1 Nov. 17th. St. Ives Bay: 6 Nov. 16th. Gerrans Bay: 8 Nov. 19th. Loe Bar: Female Nov. 27th. : 3 females Dec. 3rd; 1 female Dec. 26th. Porthleven: 2 (1 male) Dec. 4th; 2 females Dec. 11th; 10 Dec. 21st; 11 Dec. 24th into 1984. Bude: Female Dec. 4th; 2 females from the 13th into 1984. Porthgwarra: Immature male Dec. 5th. Towan Head: 5 Dec. 10th.

LONG-TAILED DUCK — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Millbrook Lake: The 1982 bird remained until March 5th MO. Upper Tamar Res.: The 1982 bird remained until March 30th MO. Tamar Est.: Female Feb. 1st to 3rd RMB. : 4 March 9th; 5 March 12th GCH. VRT; 1 April 1st BKM. Loe Pool: A female Nov. 14th was joined by 2 others on 27th and remained until Dec. 18th, decreasing to 2 by 26th into 1984 EGe. Stithians Res.: Female Dec. 3rd. One of the few duck species that did not comply with the Nov. influx.

COMMON SCOTER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few 'summer'. Reports were received for every month of the year. Birds were noted at a total of 35 localities with most occurring in autumn and the second winter period. Maximum numbers: Penolver: 24 west July 24th. St. Ives Island: A total of 165 west between Sept. 10th and Dec. 26th with a max. of 65 on Oct. 11th. Rosemullion Head: A total of 104 south between Sept. 21st and Oct. 1st with a max.

27 of 71 on Sept. 21st. Porthpean: 168 Nov. 23rd (all females — the highest single day total in the County since 1977). Carlyon Bay: 75 Nov. 26th; 26 Dec. 25th. Mounts Bay: 32 Nov. 17th and 28th. Elsewhere in the first half of the year there were records from Towan Head (2), Bude (27), Talland Bay (2), Porthpean (up to 8), Gerrans Bay (2), Par (2), Dodman (3), Mounts Bay (2), Downderry (15), Porthgwarra (19) and in the second half of the year from Duckpool (3), Bude (6), Pentire (5), Towan Head (17), Godrevy (19), Cape Cornwall (10), Botallack Head (24), Pendeen (4), Sennen Cove (1), Porthgwarra (3), Loe Bar (14), Helford (4), Gerrans Bay (12), Par (15), Looe (1), Polhawn Cove (4), Rame Head (41), Millbrook (2), St. Johns Lake (3). Unusual reports: Siblyback Res.: 5 (2 males) July 27th. Lynher Est.: A moulting male Aug. 14th.

SURF SCOTER — Very rare vagrant. A female May 2nd and 3rd JD. The fourth County mainland record. Full details submitted to BBRC.

VELVET SCOTER — Rare winter visitor. Gerrans Bay: 1 Jan. 7th to 15th and the same or another Feb. 28th to April 15th GCJ. MCT. St. Ives Island: 1 (flew west) Oct. 16th DSF. MPS. VRT. Loe Bar: 4 drakes Nov. 4th to 26th JSG. Camel Est.: 1 Nov. 18th SMC. BTSC. St. Johns Lake: 1 Dec. 17th to 24th AECA. SCM. MDR. RS. WT.

GOLDENEYE — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. The species was present in average numbers in both winter periods, but what has happened to the flock? In spring most birds moved out of the County March 10th to the 14th. In Autumn there were sizeable influxes on several days between Nov. 7th and 19th. Maximum numbers: Camel Est.: Up to 8 Jan. 1st to March 3rd; 9 Nov. 18th. Hayle Est./Carnsew Pool: 9 Jan. 1st, 23rd and 29th; 12 Nov. 14th. Upper Tamar Res.: 10 Jan. and Feb. 15 March 13th; 10 Dec. 3rd. Creek: 14 Jan. 3rd. Stithians Res.: 11 March 10th; 8 Dec. 17th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were records from Marazion (1), Loe Pool (5), Carrick Roads (2), Percuil (3), Ruan Lanihorne (5), Mylor (7), Tresillian (2), Looe (3), St. Johns Lake (4), Millbrook Lake (2), Lynher (1), Drift Res. (3), Porth Res. (2), Siblyback Res. (3), Crowdy Res. (3). Elsewhere in the second winter period, there were records from near Sennen (1), Marazion Marsh (3), Drift Res. (1), St. Ives Bay (2), Loe Pool (2), Percuil (1), Tresillian (2), St. Johns Lake (2), Millbrook Lake (1), Lynher Est. (2), Porth Res. (1), (3), Colliford Res. (3) and Bude Marshes (1). Last and first dates: Stithians Res.: 1 June 1st to 19th. Lynher Est.: Immature male Oct. 8th.

SMEW — Scarce winter visitor (annual at Siblyback).

Siblyback: 3 brownheads Jan. 2nd had increased to 4 by Jan. 23rd, but decreased to 3 on the 30th and 2 Feb. 18th. However, there was another increase to 5 on March 4th, with 3 last recorded the following day PSC. FMC et al. One brownhead Nov.;

28 CANADA GEESE with young — Crowdy Res. June 1983 G.P.Sutton RED KITE S. C. Hutchings 27th and Dec. 11th MPF. RAF. GJC. Dozmary Pool: One brownhead Jan. 20th and 30th SMC. BTSC. AECA. SCM. (probably the fourth Siblyback bird of Jan. 23rd).

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER — Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Recorded in lower numbers than for many years, undoubtedly reflecting the mild winters of 1982/83 and 1983/84. There was no discernible spring passage. In autumn, light passage was noted from October lst-9th and Nov. 14th-27th. Almost completely absent at the end of the year. Birds were regularly reported in both winter periods from: St. Johns Lake/Lynher Estuary complex: with a maximum of four in the first winter period until March 5th and a maximum of 5 in the second winter period from Oct. 2nd. River Fal/ complex: noted until March 27th with a maximum of 30 + on Jan. 2nd and 28th. In the second winter period noted from Dec. 20th to the end of the year with a maximum of 8 Dec. 31st. Camel Estuary: single brownheads Jan. 10th and 19th and Feb. 11th with up to 3 brownheads from Oct. 20th to Dec. 1st. Tresillian: up to 5 brownheads from Jan. 24th to April 5th and 4 (2 drakes) Dec. 27th. Carnsew Pool: 1 brownhead March 14th, 2 brownheads Oct. 3rd and Nov. 14th, with one regular to the end of the year. There were no other first winter reports. Elsewhere in the second winter period, birds were noted at: St. Ives Island: 3 (west) Oct. 8th; 2 (west) Oct. 9th; 1 Nov. 14th; 2 Nov. 7th. Cape Cornwall: 2 (west) Oct. 8th. Pentire: A brownhead Oct. 30th. Trevose Head: Single brownheads (east) Nov. 14th and 18th. Loe Pool: Brownhead Nov. 15th to 20th. Millbrook Lake: Brownhead Nov. 20th. Towan Head: Brownhead Nov. 27th. Bude: Brownhead Dec. 2nd. Egloshayle: Brownhead Dec. 6th. Last and first reports: Pendower: 4 May 15th. Rame Head: Brownhead Oct. 1st.

GOOSANDER — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. No first winter records, 4 in spring and a few in the second winter period. Brownheads, unless stated otherwise. Dozmary Pool: 2 March 26th; 3 (2 drakes) April 2nd; pair April 5th and a drake Dec. 10th BTC. RS. DT. MPF. RAF et al. Crowdy Res.: Singles April 12th BTC. and Nov. 2nd NAGB. PNB. Lynher Est.: 1 Nov. 13th RS. Hayle Est.: 1 Nov. 14th into 1984 GCH. LPW et al. Godrevy: 1 (east) Nov. 14th DSF. Par Harbour: 1 Nov. 26th GJC. Drift Res.: 1 Nov. 27th. Camel Est.: 1 Nov. 29th PJD.

RUDDY DUCK — Formerly very rare vagrant. Now scarce winter visitor. Dozmary Pool: A single female or immature Oct. 24th to Nov. 5th SCM. RS. was joined by another from the 6th to the 13th RMB. MPF. RAF. with one remaining to the 22nd SCM. Par Beach Pool: A female or immature Nov. 26th GJC. (possibly one of the

29 Dozmary birds).

Noted in the County every year since the first record in 1977.

HONEY BUZZARD — Rare passage migrant. Rame Head: A barred adult flew east Sept. 28th SMC. RS. Hayle Est.: A pale juvenile flew west Oct. 30th RC.

BLACK KITE — Very rare vagrant.

Porthgwarra: A first year bird, Sept. 24th RA. CA. VRT. Hayle Est.: 1 flew north Oct. 1st DJC. SPF. MAH. GCH. The second and third County mainland records, although possibly only one bird involved. The only previous record being at Porthgwarra on the 17th May 1975. Accepted by BBRC.

RED KITE — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. All singles: Ruan Lanihorne: Jan. 8th JCo and Feb. 8th JCr. RH. St. Hilary: Jan. 19th LO. HMO. Newmill: Feb. 12th PAR. : Flew south Oct. 24th DSF. The Lizard: Oct. 26th SB. Porthgwarra: Oct. 29th LPW. Tremcrom Hill: Nov. 11th LO. HMO.

MARSH HARRIER — Scarce passage migrant. Near Bude: A female flew east April 30th IK. Porthgwarra: 1 (probably female) flew south west Sept. 23rd DSF et al.

HEN HARRIER — Scarce winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. By recent standards the total number of birds wintering was fairly average, despite a tremendous upsurge in interest in the species. A light spring passage was noted between March 6th and May 28th. In autumn a very early male was noted at The Lizard on Sept. 22nd with the next being a female at on Oct. 9th. There was a considerable influx from Oct. 19th to the 25th and a less noticeable arrival from Nov. 13th to 26th. In the first winter period regularly reported from Tregonetha Downs (max. of 5 Jan. 23rd and Feb. 17th), Common (3 Jan. 8th) and Dozmary Pool (4 Jan. 9th). Elsewhere there were single day sightings at (Jan. 1st), St. Breock Downs (Jan. 2nd), Halesetown (Jan. 11th), Crowdy Res. (Jan. 16th and Feb. 12th), Nr. Kynance (Jan. 16th and Feb. 20th), Northcott Mouth (Jan. 19th), (Jan. 20th), and Golitha Falls (2 Feb. 26th). What are presumed to be spring migrants were reported as follows: Crowdy Res. (singles March 6th and 19th; April 2nd and 30th), , nr. Kilkhampton (March 6th), (March 12th), Philleigh (March 23rd), Goonhilly Downs (March 12th and April 1st), Cam Galver (March 28th), (2 April 7th), Helston (April 7th), Skewjack (April 7th and 16th and May 28th), Porthgwarra (April 19th), Maer Lake (May 8th), and Morvah (May 27th). In Autumn and the second winter period birds were regularly reported from Tregonetha Downs (max. 4 Dec. 31st), Trewey Common (4 Dec. 4th), Dozmary Pool (2 Nov. 20th). Elsewhere in autumn and the second winter period there were records from Quoit (Oct. 19th), St. Just (Oct. 19th and 27th), Penhale (Oct. 22nd), (Oct. 22nd), Porth Chapel (Oct. 22nd), Siblyback Res. (Oct. 22nd and Dec. 30th), Stithians Res. (Oct. 23rd), Porthgwarra (Oct. 23rd and 2 Oct. 24th), Nanquidno

30 (Oct. 24th), Hayle Est. (Oct. 24th), Ding Dong (Oct. 29th), The Lizard (Oct. 30th and Dec. 10th and 16th), Gurnards Head (Oct. 30th and Nov. 20th), Upper Fowey Valley (Oct. 30th and Nov. 5th and 10th), Camel Est. (Nov. 12th into 1984), Hawks Tor (2 Nov. 13th), Godrevy (Nov. 14th), Nr. Roche (Nov. 15th), Ruan Lanihorne (Nov. 18th), Nr. (Nov. 18th), St. Eval (Dec. 4th), Badgers Cross (Dec. 10th) and (Dec. 27th).

MONTAGU'S HARRIER — Rare passage migrant. Breeds occasionally.

Tregonetha Downs: A female May 23rd and 24th GJC.

GOSHAWK — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Tregonetha Downs: Female Jan. 1st SMC. (probably the 1982 bird). Gurnards Head: Female March 6th RA. PH. : 1 July 15th RIA. Porthgwarra: Male Oct. 23rd BKM. Hayle Est.: Female Oct. 9th VRT. HT. (probably the same bird near St. Ives the following day VRT). : Female Dec. 28th BKM. Several other reports received, but once again the descriptions supplied did not rule out a large female Sparrowhawk.

SPARROWHAWK — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

Well distributed throughout the County with sightings at c.70 localities. Despite this, breeding was reported at only 8 sites. The usual autumn records of possible migrants at all of the well-watched West Cornwall sites. Some of the more interesting notes received are as follows: Bodmin: May 24th, a bird took a Collared Dove which was sitting on its nest MWT. : Male found dead, entangled in fishing line, suspended below a five foot high bridge over Drift River. LO. HMO. Mount Joy: Female flew into the porch, where it was confronted by a cat. PJD was able to capture the bird and examine it before releasing it unharmed.

BUZZARD — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Well distributed throughout the County with breeding or probable breeding at 33 sites. However, the true picture is far from complete, particularly in east Cornwall, where the species was definitely under reported. Most seen together was 10 at Penrose on April 12th. At St. Levan on Sept. 20th one was seen carrying a snake.

ROUGH-LEGGED BUZZARD — Rare passage migrant. Marazion By-pass: 1 April 9th DJB. /Godrevy Towans: 1 March 23rd PRW and April 23rd to 30th PAR.

OSPREY — Scarce passage migrant. All singles: Ruan Lanihorne: May 5th JCo; Aug. 13th RDP. GCJ. BKM. Camel Est.: Aug. 21st DNC. IAC. JNC. Tamar Est.: Aug. 29th RS.

KESTREL — Breeds. Resident. Possible passage migrant.

Breeding reported at only 13 sites, mainly in the north and west of the County, but as with Buzzard there is obviously considerable apathy towards the species.

31 Some of the more interesting notes received were: Rame Head: 1 carrying a full grown Slow Worm April 27th. The Lizard: A male carrying a full grown Slow Worm May 21st. South East Cornwall: 1 eating a Dartford Warbler June 1st.

MERLIN — Winter visitor. Scarce passage migrant.

In the first winter period (Jan. to Feb.) there were reports from 22 localities, representing possibly the highest ever wintering total in the County. However, many were single day sightings and obviously several of the birds were wandering around the County. The only area with regular sightings was the inter-linked moorland area of Goss Moor and Tregonetha Downs. Certainly 3 birds (1 male and 2 female) were noted here. Elsewhere in Jan. there were sightings at St. Eval (8th), Dunmere (9th), Trewey Common (19th), Hayle and Copperhouse (22nd), and Helston Sewage Works (23rd), Porthgwarra (29th) and Colliford (30th). In Feb. at Loe Pool (6th), Kirland and Hayle Kimbro (12th), Crowdy Res. (13th), Mullion (18), Hill (22nd), Siblyback Res. and Dozmary Pool (26th). There was a definite emigration in late Feb. with spring passage commencing March 19th. A small movement occurred with singles at Loe Pool (19th), Tamar Est. (22nd), (23rd). There were further passages through the County April 3rd to 13th and 20th to 25th (eight birds involved). In autumn the first was one at The Lizard Sept. 3rd followed by singles at Copperhouse (7th) and (10th). A small widespread arrival occurred from the 15th to the 25th (6-1- birds) but the most obvious influxes were noted parallel with Hen Harrier arrivals from Oct. 22nd to 25th and 28th to 30th. During this period singles were reported at Tremayne, near St. Just, St. Johns Lake (22nd), Rame Head, Trevose Head, Drift Res. and Goonhilly (23rd), Marazion Marsh and Trevose Head (different bird to that of the 23rd), (24th), (25th), Siblyback Res. (27th), Padstow and Penzance Heliport (28th), Pentire and Winnards Perch (29th), Treveal and St. Just (30th). Multiple occurrences were noted at Porthgwarra (3 on 23rd, including 2 flying south-south-east out to sea and 2 on the 24th), Trevose (a pair on the 22nd) and Mullion (2 on the 20th). In November there were records from 14 widespread localities with several passing through at the time of the wildfowl movement of November 15th to 24th. December records were fewer, with reports from 7 sites, namely Scadghill, Crowdy Res., Colliford, Tregonetha Downs, , The Lizard (2) and Skewjack.

HOBBY — Has bred. Scarce passage migrant.

No reports of birds in suitable breeding habitat. The following all relate to singles: Skewjack: April 21st and June 4th HPKR. Caerthillian: May 21st SCH. VRT. Goonhilly Downs: May 24th PMcC. : June 9th PMcC. : June 19th BTC. SCH. Tregoning Hill: July 4th SB. Nanquidno: Adult July 24th LPW. Dozmary Pool: July 20th JHF. Hannafore: A juvenile Aug. 7th catching mainly Oak Eggar moths AECA. SCM. Carnmenellis: Aug. 27th RH. Malpas: 1 (flying south) Aug. 8th BKM. Marazion/Penzance: An immature bird from Sept. 29th to Oct. 5th DSF. AIP et al. VRT reports that the Caerthillian bird of May 21st allowed an extremely close

32 human approach, whilst it was sitting on fence posts. It was watched chasing a Kestrel, which it pursued with great speed and agility. Both birds were calling very loudly and the two were seen to lock talons. On two occasions the Kestrel (presumably the local bird) broke away and retreated angrily, the Hobby returning to its fence posts.

PEREGRINE — Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Once again one of the most reported species in the County during 1983. Reports were received from over 70 localities throughout the County and some of the more interesting sightings were as follows: Lands End: A pair on Oct. 8th were repeatedly attacking Meadow Pipits which were coming in off the sea, and as usual when attacking (playing?) with such tiny birds, their grand methods ensured they missed by miles! VRT. Siblyback Res.: 1 took a Kingfisher Oct. 24th. West Cornwall: Almost common-place now LPW. All reports relating to breeding are treated in the strictest confidence and the Editor has no intention of publishing any of these details, whether they be positive or negative. However, observers are reminded that they should exercise the utmost caution and discretion when in the vicinity of eyries, particularly in view of the fact that instances of nest-robbing are known to have occurred in Cornwall in 1983.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE — Scarce resident. Feral release.

Many more records this year, reflecting the greatly increased numbers released recently. Nr. Portreath: 1 on the road in April PS. Mountjoy: 2 May 5th and 23rd PJD. Rumford: A pair July 1st; at least one pair of the birds released in the area in 1982 bred. 13 young were reared SMC. ADC. EMC. HMC. Probus/ area: 1 adult and 5 small young in a narrow lane July 27th MCR. Lambessow, St. Clement: An adult July 31st Prof. A. C. Thomas per RDP. Coswarth: 2 young Aug. 30th. The farmer at Coswarth told me he had allowed some to be "put down" on his farm in the spring PJD. Lane: 1 Oct. 7th PJD. A farmer at nearby told PJD that he had "put down" many there and at Nanswhyden, and showed 50 he was rearing as breeding stock, whose offspring he hoped to turn loose. Whitecorss: 21 + walking along the lane Nov. 5th DLT. According to Mr. Millington, former gamekeeper at , c.300 birds were released on the estate in 1982, of which only two could be found within a year RDP.

GREY PARTRIDGE — Breeds. Resident.

Fewer records than in 1982. JD noted a poor season in the Ladock area and SCM found the species very local in S.E. Cornwall, but pointed out that this had always been the case. The bulk of records came from the north coast between the Camel and Newquay areas. There were no records again for the far west, the furthest west the species was seen was Porthleven. The largest covies were 35 at St. Eval Nov. 26th, and 20 at Porthmear (Porthcothan) Nov. 5th.

QUAIL — Scarce passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. Trelow Downs: A male June 18th-26th SMC. Penitillies (St. Col.): A male June 23rd SMC. Winnards Perch: A male June 23rd SMC. Beacon Cove / (): One heard regularly until the fields were combined, July 7th-Aug. 15th MGR.

33 Upper Tamar Res.: One heard in suitable breeding habitat Aug. 1st FHOK. IK. Newbridge (St. Just): One Aug. 31st.

PHEASANT — Breeds. Resident. Reported as common in many areas, especially around large estates, where captive birds released. A good breeding season noted at Bude TJD but a poor one at Ladock JD and once again in the St. Columb district SMC. St. Just-in-Roseland: May 15th, one successful brood in churchyard or adjoining glebe marched along the road from Top Lych Gate, through my front garden, and into the nearest hay field. The mother and 13 poults were unmoved by humans or cars passing, but screamed hysterically at the appearance of my Border Collie (16.5 years old, blind, deaf and oblivious of their presence!) LSP & EMP.

WATER RAIL — Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A pair bred at Marazion Marsh. Three young were seen on July 13th GH but only two on 15th MPS. Birds possibly bred at Loe Pool, and were also present at Long Rock Pool in the breeding season. Rather surprisingly two areas of Bodmin Moor held birds in June, with one being seen at Withybrook Marsh, and another heard at Buttern Hill on June 4th. Recorded in both winter periods at suitable localities, but numbers low with maximum being 5 at Skewjack Jan. 2nd, and 20 at same site Dec. 12th, 10 at Marazion Marsh Nov. 10th and 13 at Loe Pool Nov. 30th. Spring passage noted only at Skewjack, but in autumn more widespread with birds, mostly singles, noted at fourteen localities, mainly in the west of the County. Nr. Kynance: one feeding, unusually in the open in a dry ditch Nov. 19th E. Grace.

SPOTTED CRAKE — Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) and very rare winter visitor. Angarrack: Adult Feb. 24th-March 17th PAR. Skewjack: One Aug. 15th-17th EG. one Aug. 20th-Sept. 3rd but 2 Aug. 21st HPKR. Par Beach Pool: A juvenile trapped and ringed Aug. 24th. Seen again Aug. 27th SMC. BTSC. EMC. Marazion Marsh: One Sept. 27th DSF.

CORNCRAKE — Rare passage migrant. St. Dennis: A dying bird obtained by Rex Harper, RSPCA, Sept. 1st (now displayed in Truro Museum). Foxhole: One flushed from heathland Sept. 18th RBr. Nanquidno: One Oct. 22nd PAD. Although all autumn records, the first two are from the same general area, and intriguingly one with plenty of good breeding habitat.

MOORHEN — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Successful breeding at Tamar Lakes (1-2 pairs), Crowdy (1 pair, 1 young), (1 pair, 2 young), Sladesbridge (5-7 young), Tresemple Pool (2 young), Loe Pool, and Skewjack (3 pairs). Maximum numbers: Skewjack: 35 Jan. 1st; 35 Nov. 19th; 40 Nov. 20th and Dec. 6th. Penrose: 20+ Jan. 8th; 27 Nov. 21st. Marazion Marsh: 25 Feb. 26th many more than usual foraging after the water level had fallen. Clowance Wood Lake: 37 Nov. 28th.

34 Tresemple Pool: 30 Nov. 29th Several sites with 20 or less.

COOT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Successful breeding only at Tamar Lakes (2 pairs) and Crowdy (1 young). Unsuccessful breeding attempts at Marazion Marsh, Siblyback, and Loe Pool. Also noted in breeding season at Par Beach Pool, but not known if breeding was attempted. Numbers generally were much below normal. Maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: 58 Jan. 8th; 51 Jan. 23rd; 58 Nov. 21st; 70 Dec. 15th. Marazion Marsh: 39 Jan. 10th. College Res.: 47 Jan. 17th. Siblyback: 72 Jan. 20th; 120 Jan. 23rd; 70 Feb. 18th. Par Beach Pool: 45 Jan. 20th. Stithians: c.100 Aug. 30th. Loe Pool: 132 Oct. 22nd; 160 Nov. 11th; 210 Nov. 15th. Dozmary Pool: 40 Oct. 24th; 53 Nov. 6th. Slightly unusual were two on the Hayle Estuary Nov. 20th and one there on Nov. 29th.

CRANE — Rare vagrant. Carnaquidden Downs: One flying south west Oct. 27th RCFH. Drift: One flying towards Penzance early in the morning Nov. 6th RT. Marazion: One Nov. 6th LW. Porth Res.: On Dec. 2nd, G. Hautot of Trencreek told me there was one at the reservoir that had been present for about a fortnight PJD. Nr. RAF St. Mawgan: One adult Dec. 3rd and 4th EMC. SMC. ADC. HMC et al. High Street: One Dec. 20th SJC. Camel Est.: One flying north, called, Dec. 21st DFK. Records during the autumn and winter of what was probably the same bird ranging over a large area of Cornwall. The 7th County mainland record and the first since 1976. (20 birds involved in the seven occurrences). The St. Mawgan record accepted by BBRC.

OYSTERCATCHER — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Very under recorded in the breeding season with only one probable pair near Bude, and possible breeding birds at the Rumps and Porthmear. Outside the breeding season noted on most with significant numbers as follows: Camel Est.: 250 Jan. 19th. Autumn passage built up from 150 on Aug. 6th to 300 Sept. 9th and stayed at about 350/400 until the end of the year, making it by far the largest wintering population in the County. Truro River: 200 Jan. 29th. Bude Beach: 150 Jan. 30th. Hayle Est.: Slight spring passage with max. of 36 on April 3rd. The peak for autumn was 138 on Aug. 13th, but numbers then fell until only ten were present at the end of the year. Ruan Lanihorne: Numbers insignificant in first winter period, but a slight spring passage showed 28 present April 7th. Autumn passage peaked at 124 on Sept. 12th, but numbers then fell dramatically to only 20/30 for the rest of the autumn. Wintering birds at the end of the year again insignificant, numbering only 8/12. St. Johns Lake: 232 present on Sept. 9th, increased to 410 on Oct. 9th, but wintering numbers at the end of the year reached only 130.

35 Noted inland at Stithians, 2 Sept. 11th, the first SCH had seen here, and at Drift where 2 were seen on Oct. 10th. BLACK-WINGED STILT — Rare vagrant.

Marazion Marsh: 3 April 29th. Thought to be a male, an immature male, and a female. The immature male and the female mated after display, and completed the act with crossing of bills and the male extending one wing. GH. BP. MPS. LPW. Accepted by BBRC. The 12th County mainland record.

AVOCET — Winter visitor. Rare passage migrant.

Tamar Est.: Present from the beginning of the year until March 24th (1) with a maximum of 64 on Jan. 23rd and 69 on Feb. 19th. The first for the second winter period were 11 on Nov. 13th and the maximum was 71 Dec. 21st. Lynher Est.: 2 Jan. 1st EG and Jan. 9th SCM. Loe Pool: One Aug. 29th (flew in and settled on the pool near a small party of Mallard. After a few minutes the Mallard and the Avocet flew off south) JSG. Camel Est.: One Nov. 11th and Nov. 29th SMC. FMC. Ruan Lanihorne: 2 Nov. 13th JCn. GCJ. St. Johns Lake: 9 Nov. 20th SCM; 5 Nov. 30th HT: 1 Dec. 12th SCM. Interestingly the Camel and Ruan birds arrived at the same time as the first birds on the Tamar.

STONE CURLEW — Rare vagrant. Kelsey Head: 5 Aug. 25th RH. A most interesting record of a species now very rarely seen in Cornwall. The first bird was located by call "not unlike a curlew but higher pitched", as it flew across Porth Joke Bay towards Kelsey Head. It was refound later on the large stoney ploughed field that covers Kelsey headland, with another bird close by. When they later flew across the sea towards Penhale Camp, they were joined by another three birds.

There is an unconfirmed report that they were seen the next day at Nancekuke, Portreath. This is the first multiple occurrence in Cornwall since three on the Hayle Estuary Dec. 1st 1962. The 8th-12th County mainland records since 1937, prior to which the species was more regular.

36 LITTLE RINGED PLOVER — Uncommon passage migrant.

All singles. Hayle Est.: April 16th and 17th GH. MJJ; May 4th MPS. Marazion Marsh: April 30th BKM. BP. LPW. : May 1st BTC. Lower Tamar Lake: May 20th FHCK. IK. Landulph Marsh: July 10th PSC: Juvenile Aug. 12th-22nd RMB. JMR et al. Stithians: Juvenile Oct. 28th AFJC. Other reports submitted but lacked sufficient descriptions for acceptance.

RINGED PLOVER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. In the first winter period the largest numbers were on the Camel where 150+ were counted on Jan. 7th. This number, however, proved exceptional and the average on the Camel for this period was 30/40. The only other large numbers were 80 on Marazion Beach Feb. 19th and 65 on the River Tiddy Feb. 23rd. As usual spring passage was insignificant with nine inland at Davidstow May 1st being the largest number noted. Autumn migration noted widely from July 8th, but numbers generally small. Larger numbers as follows: Landulph Marsh: 35 on Aug. 19th was a high count for this area. Ruan Lanihorne: 81 on Aug. 20th was the only high count, other counts hardly getting into double figures. Hayle Est.: Numbers low in early autumn but peaked at 69 on Oct. 2nd. Marazion Beach: c.40 Oct. 2nd. Camel Est.: Low numbers at the beginning of the autumn built up to a peak of 110 on Oct. 27th. The second winter period produced peak counts of 100+ on the Camel, Dec. 12th and 74 at Hayle Nov. 17th, but very few elsewhere. Most inland reservoirs were visited in autumn with the highest count being 15 at Stithians Sept. 22nd.

KENTISH PLOVER — Rare passage migrant.

Long Rock Beach: One male May 16th and 17th MPS. LPW. A regular location and a typical date for this Plover which shows no indication of getting any commoner as a passage migrant. The 23rd County mainland record.

DOTTEREL — Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) A poor year, with the few records grouped within a seven day period in Sept. Davidstow: One immature Sept. 23rd SCM. The Lizard: One immature Sept. 24th EG. SCH. St. Just Airfield: One immature Sept. 30th SCH. LPW.

LESSER GOLDEN PLOVER — Rare vagrant. Stithians: One immature Oct. 2nd to at least Nov. 13th RB. BKM. EJC et al. Davidstow: One juvenile Sept. 30th and Oct. 11th GPS., B. J. Beasley, J. D. Geeson. Both accepted by BBRC.

GOLDEN PLOVER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Early in the year regular large numbers at: Hayle Est.: A flock averaging 1000/1500 was present through Jan./Feb., but numbers had fallen to 250 by March 26th. Camel Est.: Numbers up to 700 in Jan./Feb., but this was well down on the average

37 for this estuary. Stithians Res.: 1500 present Jan. 10th. Siblyback Res.: Good numbers in Jan. with 2500+ on Jan. 16th being the maximum. Spring passage was light with only small flocks, the maximum being 140 at Goss Moor on April 13th. The last for the spring was one at Skewjack May 7th. Birds of the northern race were noted in spring as follows: Hayle Est.: 3 March 26th. Goss Moor: 80+ in a flock of 140 April 13th. Autumn passage was best documented at: Davidstow: Where the first birds were noted Aug. 8th. Numbers built up only slowly, with no flock of any size until 500 on Sept. 23rd. This number was then present until the latter part of Oct., when numbers peaked at 1200 on the 18th. Stithians Res.: Few records here until 350 on Oct. 12th. Numbers then rose to a maximum of 900 on Oct. 20th, although 400/500 was more normal for most of the month. Camel Est.: A single day count of 1400 on Oct. 27th was the only large count for the autumn. During the second winter period highest numbers were noted at the Camel Estuary, where 2000/3000 were present Nov. 29th, and Davidstow where 1320 were present Dec. 27th. Elsewhere numbers up to 600 noted at Hayle Est., Stithians Res., Tamar Est., and Connor Downs.

GREY PLOVER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Numbers only average at best, in both winter periods. In the first winter period significant numbers at: Hayle Est.: Noted from the beginning of the year until mid-March with a max. of 80/100 on Jan. 15th and 80 on Feb. 6th. Camel Est.: Only up to 37 in Feb. but a count of 65 on March 3rd. Well below average for this estuary. Gerrans Bay/Portscatho: Monthly maxima Jan. 41, Feb. 42, March 19. Spring passage was very limited with only up to 4 birds at Hayle Est. April 5th-May 5th, 2 at Gerrans Bay in April, 2 near Sennen April 21st and one on the Camel Est., April 25th. Autumn began with a summer plumaged bird inland at Crowdy Res. on June 19th and then nothing until another summer plumage bird on the Camel Est. Aug. 6th. Migration began in earnest from early Sept. and although poor in numbers, birds were regular at: Camel Est.: Numbers peaked at 90+ on Sept. 7th. Hayle Est.: Very small numbers, max. 7 throughout Sept./Oct. In the second winter period regular sightings at: Hayle Est.: Where numbers rose from 24 on Nov. 2nd to 69 by Dec. 27th. Camel Est.: 35 present by Nov. 18th, but numbers up to 70 by Dec. 1st. St. Johns Lake: Although not much in evidence in the first winter period, 59 were noted in Dec. on the 17th. Gerrans Bay: Regular in small numbers Nov./Dec. with a maximum of 59 on Dec. 17th. Inland, as well as the Crowdy record mentioned, singles were seen at Stithians Sept. 24th and Oct. 5th-23rd.

LAPWING — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Bred at Kynance (at least five pairs), Crowdy Res. (2 young) and Temple (3 young), and breeding suspected at Lady Down, Bodmin Moor. In the early part of the year good numbers at: Skewjack: 2500 on Jan. 2nd, although no numbers above 150 for the rest of the period. Stithians Res.: 1500 on Jan. 10th.

38 Crowdy Res.: c.2000 on Jan. 16th was by far the highest count. Hayle Est.: c.600 by Feb. 24th. Numbers up to 1000 noted at Siblyback Res., Lynher Est., Tamar Lakes, Ruan Lanihorne and St. Merryn Airfield. In the autumn and second winter period: Crowdy Res./Davidstow: Post breeding flocks quickly built up in mid-summer with 500 on June 25th and 1500 by July 26th. 2000 were present Aug. 8th, and between 1200/2000 were about for the rest of the autumn. Camel Est.: Although few early on in the autumn numbers had built up to 1700 by Oct. 27th, and 4000/5000 were present on Nov. 29th. Skewjack: Up to 350 during Nov., and 1700 on Dec. 12th. Hayle Est.: Low numbers in autumn and early winter but 910 on Dec. 27th. Numbers up to 600 noted at Ruan Lanihorne, Tamar Lakes, Stithians, Kynance and De Lank Waterworks, Bodmin Moor. The bird with white primaries was again present at Crowdy Res., March 19th-April 30th.

KNOT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. With the exception of the regular flock at St. Johns Lake/Millbrook which reached a meagre 45 on Jan. 22nd and 90 on Dec. 12th, the species was almost non-existent in both winter periods. Numbers not exceeding three were noted at the Camel Est., Tamar Est., and Gerrans Bay. In spring only two records from Hayle with seven on March 21st and two on April 6th. Numbers on autumn passage were also low. One at Ruan Lanihorne Aug. 15th was the first, and the max. number was 19 at Hayle Sept. 6th. Smaller numbers occurred at Par (max. 12), Camel Est. (7) and St. Ives (4) with singles elsewhere. Inland: Drift: 2 or 3 Aug. 28th-Sept. 11th. Lower Tamar Lake: A juvenile Aug. 29th and 1 Sept. 4th. Davidstow: 2 Sept. 17th, then singles Sept. 20th-23rd. Rather unusual in view of the poor autumn passage was a series of records of birds passing west off Towan Head with one Aug. 30th, 2 Sept. 3rd and 1 Nov. 27th. Also unusual were 2 at Skewjack Sept. 24th.

SANDERLING — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

As usual the Eastern Green/Marazion area provided the bulk of records, being the only regular wintering and passage location in the County for this species. Only 7 were noted in Jan. on the 10th, but in spring 24 were present April 4th, and 32 the next day. In autumn and the second winter period numbers were a little better with 22 Sept. 27th, 55 Nov. 24th, 65 Dec. 3rd and 57 Dec. 30th. Maximum numbers elsewhere: Hayle Est.: 20 Feb. 24th; 8 Dec. 27th. Gwithian: 10+ Aug. 14th. Loe Bar: 12 July 30th; 13 Aug. 13th. Ruan Lanihorne: 6 Oct. 6th. Numbers up to five occasionally at Bude, Polzeath, Sennen Cove, Camel Est. and Par. Inland: Davidstow: 2 Aug. 8th. Siblyback: 1 Sept. 4th. Upper Tamar Lake: 1 Sept. 6th. Drift: 1 Sept. 11th; 1 Oct. 3rd. One at Skewjack May 14th was unusual.

39 LITTLE STINT — Passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

None in spring, but a good autumn passage with at least 38 birds in the County Sept. 25th, and 43 on Oct. 1st. Passage dropped off after Oct. 7th but birds were present in small numbers throughout Oct. and one remained at Copperhouse until the end of the year. A second bird was present there Nov. 2nd-8th and Dec. 31st. Also noteworthy was the high count of 30 at Hayle Est. Oct. 3rd. Tamar Lakes: 1 Aug. 21st; 8 Sept. 11th; 10 Sept. 16th-22nd; 15 Sept. 24th and 1 Oct. 8th. Crowdy/Davidstow: 1 Aug. 27th and 30th; 1 Sept. 5th; and then 3 or 4 regularly until the end of the month, but with 6 present Sept. 17th. In Oct. 1 on 4th and 2 on 8th. Siblyback: 2 Aug. 27th-Sept. 22nd, but 9 on Sept. 18th; 8 Sept. 25th; 8 Oct. 2nd; 10 Sept. 28th. Loe Pool: 2 juveniles Aug. 30th. College Res.: 3 Sept. 11th; 5 juveniles Sept. 12th; 3 or 4 until Sept. 26th, although 6 present Sept. 25th. Drift Res.: 3 Sept. 11th, 5 Sept. 12th with 3 or 4 remaining to 26th but 6 on 25th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Sept. 11th and 12th, then 2 or 3 regularly until Oct. 4th but 7 Sept. 16th, 10 Sept. 23rd and 11 Sept. 24th. Landulph Marsh: 2 Sept. 11th, 4 Sept. 28th and 29th, 2 Sept. 30th. Hayle Est.: one Sept. 12th, 9 Sept. 23rd increased to 12 on 26th, 18 on 29th, 21 Oct. 1st and 30 Oct. 3rd. Thereafter numbers decreased rapidly with only 2 remaining on 9th and 1 to 3 to the end of the month. Camel Est.: one Sept. 14th, 4 on 17th, 3 Oct. 4th and one on 18th. Looe: one Sept. 17th, 3 Oct. 5th and 6th. St. Johns Lake: 3 Sept. 14th. Gannel Est.: one Sept. 18th. Stithians Res.: 2 Sept. 19th and singles Sept. 22nd, Oct. 1st, 4th, 20th and 22nd. Marazion Beach: up to 3 Sept. 22nd-29th but 5 on 30th. Calenick Creek: 7 Sept. 23rd, 3 on 30th, 6 Oct. 1st and 2 on 7th. Nr. Kynance: 3 Sept. 25th, 11 Oct. 1st. Copperhouse: 5 Sept. 25th, 2 on 26th. Poldhu Cove: 3 Oct. 2nd. St. Germans Quay: one Oct. 7th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Oct. 20th and 4 on 22nd.

TEMMINCK'S STINT — Rare passage migrant. Copperhouse: adult May 23rd. GCH. LPW.

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER — Rare vagrant. Hayle Est.: adult Sept. 9th and 10th. PAR. MPS. BRF. DSF. ARP. HCK. Accepted by BBRC. The 11th County mainland record.

BAIRDS SANDPIPER — Rare vagrant.

Siblyback Res.: juvenile Sept. 3rd-18th and possibly to 23rd. SCM. AECA et al. Camel Est.: adult Sept. 14th. SMC. FMC. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept. 15th and 16th. GPS. IK. BTC. Marazion Beach: one Sept. 20th-25th. SCM. MPS et al. Carnsew Pool: one Sept. 28th. GCH. The first four all accepted by BBRC. From the descriptions received, possibly only two birds involved in all of these sightings.

40 PECTORAL SANDPIPER — Rare passage migrant.

Hannafore, Looe: one Sept. 4th, seen in flight, flew off inland SCM. Siblyback Res.: one juvenile Sept. 4th-18th VRT. HT. AHJH et al. Probably the Hannafore bird, as the flight direction from Hannafore and the arrival time at Siblyback certainly suggest a link. A noticeably small bird, it was hardly larger than a Dunlin. College Res.: one juvenile Sept. 4th-17th SCH. RB. SMC. PA. BRF. JD. Davidstow: one juvenile Sept. 9th IK., two juveniles Sept. 20th-Oct. 5th FHCK. IK. AHJH. JH. GPS et al. One juvenile present Oct. 9th AHJH, was thought by the observer to be a different bird and not one of the previous two. This or another bird present Oct. 13th MCT. Drift Res.: one Sept. 10th-14th RB. GGH. HPKR. MH. MPS. DSF et al. On Sept. 15th at about 1545 the single bird present was joined by three more that literally dropped out of the sky. They behaved as if they had just made a landfall, standing still for several minutes, bathing, and then feeding rapidly. The three, with the original bird, flew off north east calling at 1615 ARP. HCK. Hayle Est.: one Sept. 14th-Oct. 3rd MH. DSF. MPS. GH. LPW. SCM, but two on Sept. 16th, both juveniles BRF. DSF. It would appear likely that more than two birds were involved as on Sept. 19th SCM noted one flying up from the estuary and away to the south, climbing high. Skewjack: one Sept. 17th HPKR, and one Sept. 19th-21st SCM. Hayle Kimbro Pool: two Sept. 18th-Oct. 1st. RB. JH. SCH. EG. JH remarked that they were apparently a male and female, the female being 10% shorter, smaller, and fatter than the male, the difference being quite distinctive. Trewey Common Pool, : one Oct. 9th-10th VRT. HT. SCM. Stithians Res.: one Oct. 19th MCT.

CURLEW SANDPIPER — Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

None in winter or spring, but a good autumn passage, although scattered and with no really high concentrations anywhere. By far the highest day total in the county was 31 on Oct. 1st. Copperhouse: one adult in summer plumage July 10th was unusually early. Two adults in summer plummage Aug. 22nd. Landulph Marsh: two July 26th, one Sept. 13th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Aug. 21st, then up to three until Oct. 16th. Porthkidney Beach: one Aug. 22nd. Hayle Est.: a protracted passage Sept. 4th-Nov. 13th. Usually two or three present, but six between Sept. 26th-Oct. 2nd, and nine on Oct. 3rd. Gannel: one Sept. 11th. Drift Res.: three Sept. 12th, two Sept. 15th and 16th, and one Oct. 2nd. Siblyback Res.: one Sept. 13th-25th. Stithians Res.: up to four regularly Sept. 15th-Oct. 12th, but six on Sept. 24th. Marazion Marsh: one Sept. 16th and two Sept. 25th. Tamar Lakes: three Sept. 17th and two Sept. 22nd. St. Johns Lake: one Sept. 17th and Oct. 22nd, but two Oct. 30th. Truro River: two Sept. 23rd, six Oct. 1st. Beach: one Sept. 23rd. Eastern Green, Penzance: two Sept. 26th-Oct. 10th. Marazion Beach: two Sept. 28th. Lizard: six Oct. 1st and 5th. Davidstow: eleven Oct. 1st, then three Oct. 2nd-6th. Camel Est.: four plus Oct. 4th, six Oct. 27th. Looe: two Oct. 6th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Oct. 6th. St. Germans Quay: one Oct. 17th. Newlyn: one Nov. 20th. Three passing Towan Head west on Sept. 10th, were a little unusual.

41 PURPLE SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

A poor year. The species was seen at the usual rocky coastal haunts, but numbers were very low, only reaching double figures at Penzance, Looe, Bude and Spit Beach, Par in the first winter period and spring, and only Penzance in the second winter period. Maximum numbers: Penzance: 22 Jan. 9th, 28 Dec. 30th. Hannafore, Looe: 13 March 13th, 30 April 10th. Spit Beach, Par: 12 April 15th. The last bird in spring was one at Bude on May 31st, and the first for autumn were three that flew west at St. Ives in the storm of Sept. 3rd. At St. Ives, four also passed west on Oct. 16th.

DUNLIN — Passage migrant. Winter visitor, Breeds?

Birds again seen at a probable breeding site in May and June. Up to five birds present, with trilling noted on June 14th. First winter period: Hayle Est.: 1000 Jan. 2nd falling to 780 on Feb. 2nd, and only 200 for the rest of the month. Ruan Lanihorne: about 600 Jan. 8th-28th, falling to 248 by Feb. 26th, and only 15 by March 10th. St. Johns Lake: 1300 Jan. 29th. Lynher Est.: 800 Feb. 5th. Camel est.: 1000 March 3rd. Noted in spring in many localities, with c.180 at Hayle Est. May 14th being by far the most. Last was a single bird at the same locality June 2nd. In autumn the first bird was one at Loe Pool July 3rd, but numbers were low and no appreciable flocks were seen until the wintering birds began to arrive in mid-Nov. Hayle Est.: 75 on Sept. 26th was the maximum for autumn, but numbers increased in Nov. from 150 on the 8th to 960 on the 17th, but fell again to 360 by the end of the year. Ruan Lanihorne: 21 on Aug. 15th was the maximum for autumn, but an increase to 400 occurred on Nov. 11th and stayed at about this figure until Dec. 22nd, falling to 113 by Dec. 30th. Camel Est.: 40/50 only throughout autumn, but 800+ on Nov. 21st and 1200 on Dec. 12th. St. Johns Lake: low numbers in autumn, 270 on Nov. 27th and then an increase to 1500 by Dec. 18th. Birds were noted inland at most reservoirs in autumn, with a few still present in winter. The maximum was 16 at Stithinas Oct. 1st. Unusual: St. Johns Lake: Aug. 20th, a partial albino. Pronounced white supercilium, white belly and white primaries. Streaking on the head, breast and back with a reddish hue. Bill, legs and iris normal. RWG.

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER — Rare vagrant.

Davidstow: one adult Sept. 15th GPS. FHCK. IK. BTC, seen also on the 16th. Two juveniles Sept. 17th-30th, with one on Oct. 1st and 2nd. FHCK. IK. GPS. AHJH. JH. et al. but an adult present Sept. 23rd and 27th SCM. Sennen: one Sept. 23rd SCM.

RUFF — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Two records only in the first winter period, with one at St. Merryn Airfield Jan. 4th, and two at Siblyback Jan. 16th. Spring passage was very light and noted fairly regularly at only Marazion Marsh

42 (max. four) Copperhouse (four) and Hayle Est. (max. two), with one or two sightings at Kingsmill Creek, Tamar Est. (two), Nr. Kynance (three), Crowdy Res. (three), Croft Pascoe Pool (two), and Skewjack (one). Most birds occurred in the period April 15th-20th. Autumn passage birds were more widely scattered, but numbers were still low. Lizard: one July 23rd, three July 30th, one Aug. 8th. Crowdy Res./Davidstow: noted Aug. 8th-Oct. 24th. Most birds in late Sept. when a maximum of nine were present 23rd and 29th. Tamar Lakes: noted Aug. l0th-Sept. 22nd, with a maximum of five Aug. 26th. Siblyback Res.: one Aug. 21st. Drift Res.: Noted Aug. 26th-Sept. 15th, usually one to three present but four on Aug. 30th. Stithians Res.: noted Aug. 28th-Oct. 23rd, usually two to four but five present Aug. 29th. Camel Est.: one Aug. 30th, two Sept. 14th, one Oct. 1st-14th. Hayle Est.: one or two Sept. 3rd-Oct. 10th. Gerrans Bay: one Sept. 10th. Porth Res.: one Sept. 12th-16th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Sept. 14th, and up to five Sept. 15th-25th. Ruan Lanihorne: two Sept. 17th-22nd, and two Oct. 6th. Sennen: one Sept. 22nd. College Res.: one Oct. 3rd. Gannel: one Oct. 5th. St. Just Airfield: one Oct. 5th-13th. : one in school playing field Oct. 24th. Only one record in the second winter period of a single bird at Stithians Dec. 27th. Unusual: Calenick Creek. Truro River: one white individual Oct. 1st BKM.

JACK SNIPE — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. The usual scattering of records in the first winter period. None in spring. A very early autumn record followed by a few in late Oct. and Nov., but only three Dec. records. Singles unless stated otherwise: Drift Res.: five Jan. 18th. Siblyback Res.: Jan 16th, two Dec. 30th. Wacker, Lynher Est.: Jan. 22nd. Tamar Lakes: Jan. 23rd, Feb. 11th, Feb. 13th and two on 15th. Porthmear: Feb. 2nd. Marazion Marsh: Feb. 9th, 14th and 17th, also Nov. 8th and 14th. Bude: Feb. 13th. Hayle Causeway: Feb. 14th, two Feb. 21st. One also present at Angarrack Fields, Hayle Feb. 20th and 24th. Skewjack: Feb. 19th, three March 13th, Aug. 29th (a very early date), Dec. 10th. Trewey Common: Oct. 22nd. Nr. Kynance: Oct. 23rd. Nr. Sennen: Oct. 1st and 23rd. Retallack Pool, St. Columb: Nov. 22nd. Stithians Res.: Dec. 12th.

SNIPE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. No proved breeding, but June records from three likely areas of Bodmin Moor. Upper Fowey Valley: eight to ten birds 'drumming' or 'ticking' in June. Crowdy Res: one June 3rd, and three June 25th. Buttern Hill: one 'ticking' June 4th. Widespread in low numbers in the first winter period in suitable habitat, with

43 maximum 0f 66 at Landulph Marsh March 4th, although these could have been early migrants. Low numbers again in autumn and second winter period, with significant numbers only at: Lynher Est.: 60 flushed from saltings Nov. 20th. Skewjack: up to 25 in autumn until Oct. 29th, none in Nov., then 85 on Dec. 3rd, followed by 63 Dec. 5th and 65 Dec. 17th. Stithians Res.: 80+ on Dec. 1st. Maer Lake, Bude: c.60 at the end of Dec. Unusual was a partial albino at Landulph Marsh Feb. 14th. RMB.

LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER — Very rare vagrant.

Stithians Res.: the bird from 1982 was last seen on Feb. 16th.

WOODCOCK — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Noted at 16 localities in the first winter period, mainly ones and twos. The only larger numbers came from the same general area of the county: Hill, : up to eleven in Jan./Feb. : 15+ Feb. 5th, in woods along the edge of the estuary. Loe Bar: five in a field Feb. 12th. None were seen after one near Camborne on March 12th. The first for autumn were singles on Oct. 28th at Copperhouse and Kenidjack. There were autumn and second winter records from 25 localities throughout the county. Most were singles; the only larger numbers were ten at RAF Portreath during Nov., and 30 shot on The Lizard Dec. 10th-16th.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Yet another poor year for this species that has shown a marked decline over the last few years. It now reaches ony 40/50% of the population present five or six years ago. Maximum numbers in the first winter period: Lynher Est.: 80 Jan. 9th. Tamar Est.: up to 25 in Jan./Feb. Millbrook Lake: present up to the end of Feb. with maximum of 40 on Jan. 22nd and 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 45 in Jan./Feb. but 78 on March 2nd, although these possibly could have been passage birds. Truro River: up to 40 regularly in Jan./Feb. with 30/40 on the nearby Tresillian River on Feb. 13th. Is there a regular interchange of birds between these two sites? Two on the Camel Est. mid-Jan. to mid-Feb. but ten were present March 3rd, again possibly early migrants. The only other records were up to five at Devoran, Feb./March, and one at Marazion Jan. 10th. In spring, singles were on the Hayle Est. March 13th-April 28th, five were on the Camel est. May 4th, and three on May 11th, and a single in summer plumage near Kynance on May 7th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Hayle Est. July 1st. The bulk of records came from Ruan Lanihorne where numbers built up from 13 on July 9th to a peak of 103 on Aug. 15th. 85/100 were present until early Oct. but decreased to 43 by Oct. 27th. Other significant numbers: Tamar Est.: small numbers at Kingsmill Creek in Aug. then c.50 Oct. 9th. Millbrook/St. Johns Lake: up to 50 in mid-Oct. Tresillian: c.50 Oct. 9th, and 40/50 Nov. 2nd. In the second winter period only regular at Millbrook/St. Johns Lake where 110 were present Nov. 16th and up to 78 until the end of the year, and Ruan Lanihorne where up to 45 were noted in Dec.

44

BLACK GUILLEMOT— Padstow. 3rd Dec. 1983 M. P. Frost Inland: Tamar Lakes: one July 30th, one Aug. 30th. Drift Res.: one July 31st. Crowdy Res.: two Sept. 27th. College Res.: one Sept. 6th, and two Sept. 11th and 19th. Unusual was a flock of eleven migrants flying east at Skewjack March 13th, and three at Porthgwarra Sept. 22nd. BAR-TAILED GODWIT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. In 1977 DJB queried whether this species was declining in the county. The answer by now appears to be a definite yes. Hardly any were present in the first winter period, 14 at Hayle Est. Jan. 10th, being the only count anywhere above seven. Spring passage was noted at Hayle Est. where 25 were present March 13th, 22 the next day, and with smaller numbers throughout April until six on the 24th. Two were also present on May 24th and 29th. Noted also at the Camel Est., with 15 on April 14th and up to three in mid-May. June records from Mounts Bay with singles present 9th and 23rd, and Hayle with one on the 25th. Autumn passage noted at: Hayle Est.: one on Aug. 9th with passage then noted until mid-No v., maximum being 14 on Sept. 21st. Camel Est.: one or two from Aug. 8th to Oct. 14th, but 25 on Sept. 14th and 70 on Oct. 4th. Singles also at Ruan Lanihorne, Tresillian and on the coast at Portscatho. The only second winter records were 30 at Millbrook Nov. 28th, and four at Hayle Est. Dec. 2nd and 27th. One inland at Stithians July 21st was unusual, and passage birds were noted on migration at: Skewjack: 37 west May 1st, two Sept. 24th. Towan Head: two Sept. 8th, one west Sept. 11th. Pendeen Watch: one west Sept. 11th.

WHIMBREL — Passage migrant. A few "winter".

First winter period: Gerrans Bay: one Jan. 13th-March 31st. Millbrook: three Jan. 19th and one Feb. 26th. Penlee Pt.: two in Feb. and March. SCM mentions that birds have regularly wintered here since at least the winter of 1964/65. Cudden Pt., Mounts Bay: three March 13th. These could conceivably be very early migrants, as an early arrival of godwits was noted in the area on this date. Spring passage was noted from April 2nd to June 2nd, and as usual consisted mainly of small numbers at widely scattered localities. There was a significant influx however during the period April 17th-25th, with many large flocks passing through. 385 were noted in the county on April 21st the peak day. Maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: 40 April 19th, 317 moving east along the coast April 21st JH, 40 + April 22nd, 80 April 23rd, 31 May 6th. Rame Head: 29 April 16th. Gerrans Bay: 44 April 17th. Landulph Marsh: 25 April 22nd. Mylor Harbour: a flock of 94 on rocks April 23rd. Hayle Est.: 30+ April 26th. Perranwell: 25 flying north May 3rd. At Croft Pascoe Pool, Lizard, a small roost was noted in spring, with birds leaving eastwards within minutes of dawn. 23 were present April 24th, 51 April 25th and 44 May 2nd PMc.

45 Autumn passage commenced with three at Hayle Est. June 25th. Numbers were low with 20 on St. Johns Lake Aug. 6th, and 23 there on Aug. 14th being by far the largest flocks. Birds were noted until the end of Oct. In the second winter period: St. Just Creek: one Nov. 15th. Millbrook: two Nov. 17th, one Dec. 30th. Downderry: one Nov. 23rd. St. Johns Lake: one Dec. 23rd.

CURLEW — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Not very evident in the breeding season. Single pairs present at Goss Moor and Tregonetha Downs, with displaying birds at Downs and Ninestones Farm, Upper Fowey Valley. First winter period: Godrevy: 400 Jan. 2nd. Hayle Est.: c.280 Jan. 15th, 400/500 Feb. 4th, then maximum of only 125 for the rest of the period. Ruan Lanihorne: maximum 200 in Jan. on 20th, but only up to 84 in Feb./March. Camel Est.: 500+ Feb. 2nd. Bude: 250 Feb. 13th. Small numbers in spring at Ruan Lanihorne (max. 43) and Hayle Est. (max. 24). Autumn saw large movements of birds onto the estuaries. Significant numbers as follows: Hayle Est.: numbers built up from a maximum of 50 in July to 134 on Sept. 23rd and 196 on Oct. 10th. Camel Est.: usual large autumn numbers for this estuary with 400 on July 10th and 850 Aug. 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 380 July 9th, 462 Aug. 30th, then 300/400 until early Oct. when numbers decreased rapidly with only 23 present by the end of the month. Devoran Creek: 350 Aug. 18th. Lynher Est.: 718 Aug. 24th. St. Johns Lake: 228 Sept. 9th. Percuil: 232 Aug. 2nd. In the second winter period good numbers only at Hayle Est., where the usual 100 + rose to 309 on Dec. 30th, Camel Est. with 900 on Dec. 12th and Ruan Lanihorne where low numbers in Nov. (max. 47) rose to 400 on Dec. 5th, 309 still being present Dec. 22nd. Marazion Marsh: the roosting flock on the Marsh (max. 50 birds in both winter periods in 1982) now grown in numbers, 137 present at daybreak Jan. 9th. On Feb. 12th, 90+ birds on Hogus Rocks awaiting darkness before flying in to the roosting area ACH. Gerrans Bay: Aug. 14th, a ringed bird with a red band above the left knee and a black over blue ring above right knee and silver ring on right ankle. The Wader Study Group reported that the bird was ringed in W. Germany GCJ.

SPOTTED REDSHANK — Passage migrant. Uncommon winter visitor. Noted in the first winter period at the Lynher Est. (max. 17 on Jan. 18th), Tresillian (max. 8 on Feb. 1st), Truro River (max. 3 Jan. 8th). Also records of one or two at Camel Est., St. Johns Lake, Ruan Lanihorne, and Kingsmill Creek, Tamar Est. Spring passage noted regularly only at Tresillian (max. 7/8 on April 24th. One or two on single dates at Hayle, St. Johns Lake, Ruan Lanihorne, Camel Est., Truro River, Skewjack and Croft Pascoe Pool. Passage in autumn noted at most estuaries and reservoirs, but numbers generally low with significant numbers as follows: Ruan Lanihorne: highest numbers as usual early in the autumn with three on June 27th building up to 22 on Aug. 15th, falling during Sept. to six on Oct. 6th.

46 Lynher Est.: noted Aug. 24th (2)-Oct. 25th (12) with the latter figure being the peak. Tresillian: present Aug. 19th (l)-Nov. 4th (8), with 6/8 regular in Oct. and early Nov. Very low numbers wintering Nov./Dec. at the usual favoured localities: Lynher Est.: maximum of seven in Dec. Tresillian: maximum five Nov. 29th. Millbrook: three Nov. 24th. Singles also at St. Johns Lake and Landulph Marsh. Rather unusual was one at Stithians on the late date of Nov. 16th.

REDSHANK — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Numbers particularly low in first winter period where the only record of note was 127 at Ruan Lanihorne Jan. 18th. Indeed this was the only locality to record more than 50. Birds were noted up to May 15th in spring. Autumn passage was widespread but only the Camel Est. and St. Johns Lake had reasonable numbers. Camel Est.: 100+ July 10th, 120+ Aug. 31st, then up to 160 by the end of Oct. St. Johns Lake: 210 Aug. 14th, then up to 250 at the end of Oct. Up to 70 regularly also at Hayle Est., Ruan Lanihorne, with a higher count of 121 at the latter locality on Aug. 15th. In Nov./Dec. maximum numbers noted 210 on Lynher Est. Nov. 20th and 114 at Ruan Lanihorne Dec. 30th. Inland: noted only at Crowdy Res. one or two July 31st-Aug. 8th, and Tamar Lakes with up to four July 30th-Sept. 17th. GREENSHANK — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period noted in 16 areas, indeed almost every estuary and creek had a bird or two, but larger numbers only at Tresillian with a maximum of eight on Feb. 12th, Callenick Creek, Truro River with a maximum of 12 on Jan. 26th and St. Johns Lake with a maximum of six on Feb. 26th. Up to four also at Camel Est., Lynher Est., and Millbrook Lake. Spring passage very light as usual with the maximum being seven at St. Johns Lake April 24th, and four on the Gannel April 6th and the Camel Est. April 25th. The species was widespread in autumn with good numbers. Passage peaked in late Aug. Sites with significant numbers as follows: Camel Est.: noted July l0th-Oct. 25th, mostly 6/12 present but 34+ on Aug. 6th and 18+ on Aug. 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: noted July 7th-Oct. 20th, with maximum of 20 present Sept. 10th and 21 on Oct. 6th. At Ruan River 22 were present Aug. 13th. St. Johns Lake: noted Aug. 6th-Oct. 9th, usually 15/20 counted but 36 on Sept. 7th and 42 Sept. 18th. Between 10/20 birds regularly at Truro River, Gweek, Millbrook, Lynher Est., Tamar Lakes and Drift Res. Numbers low in the second winter period and noted at only nine areas, with the largest number by far being 16 on the Camel Est. Dec. 1st. The only other site with more than two was St. Johns Lake/Millbrook with up to nine in Dec.

GREEN SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. A few "winter".

In the first winter period singles were noted at Tamar Lakes, Camel Est., Tamar Est., with up to two at Hayle causeway. Spring passage noted at only six sites. All singles with the exception of two on the Camel Est. April 15th. Widespread in autumn but numbers low, with the maximum day count for the whole county being 27 on July 31st. In some years this figure would be exceeded in counts at Stithians alone.

47 Maximum numbers: Stithians Res: eight July 31st and Sept. 4th. Drift Res.: 14 July 23rd, 17 July 31st. Tamar Lakes: 10 Aug. 21st. Hayle Kimbro Pool: seven Aug. 8th. Landulph Marsh: six July 15th. In the second winter period noted at Camel Est. (max. 2), Hayle (max. 2) and singles at Gweek, Lynher Est., Tamar Est., and Porth Res. Unusual: Sheviock: one April 9th flushed from a garden pond SCM. Nr. Bude: one flushed from cliff-top rough grazing Sept. 4th, during gales FHCK. IK.

WOOD SANDPIPER — Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Only one spring record, a bird at Skewjack May 2nd, but good autumn numbers with the main passage end of July to mid-Sept, and a surprising number of Oct. records. Landulph Marsh: singles on June 19th, July 19th, Aug. 3rd and 7th, and a very late juvenile Oct. 28th-31st. Stithians Res.: singles July 9th-Sept. 15th, but two present Aug. 3rd and Aug. 18th- Sept. 2nd. Marazion Marsh: singles July 12th-31st. Lizard: one on July 30th and Aug. 12th-13th, plus a late bird Oct. 1st. Drift Res.: singles July 31st-Sept. 15th, with two Aug. 8th- 10th and 14th and three on Aug. 11th. A late single on Oct. 3rd. Nr. Sennen: one July 31st, two Aug. 14th. Siblyback Res.: one Aug. 9th, 13th and 17th. Tamar Lakes: one Aug. 17th-29th, and two Aug. 25th-27th. Crowdy Res.: three Aug. 11th, then singles Aug. 12th-Sept. 7th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: singles Aug. lOth-Sept. 24th, with two Aug. 21st and Sept. 12th. A late bird Oct. 4th. Porth Res.: one Aug. 17th and 18th. Copperhouse: one Aug. 18th-19th. Camel Est.: one Aug. 19th. Millbay, nr. Lands End: one Aug. 21st. Skewjack: one Sept. 3rd-4th and 10th. Res.: one Sept. 9th. Trewey Common Pool: a late bird Oct. 9th, 14th and 19th. Ruan Lanihorne: a late single Oct. 20th.

COMMON SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. Uncommon winter visitor.

First winter period: Par River: one Jan. 1st and one on Par beach Feb. 12th. Porth Saxon, Helford: one Jan. 1st and 8th. St. Germans Quay: two Jan. 4th and Feb. 18th. Carne Creek, : one Jan. 14th. Mylor: one Jan. 16th. Landulph Marsh: one Feb. 16th. Creek, Fowey Est.: one Feb. 19th. Lerryn: two Feb. 19th, one Feb. 25th. Constantine: one Feb. 23rd. Spring passage noted from 19 localities throughout the county, mostly ones and twos but large numbers at Hayle Est. (max. 6 April 16th) Drift Res. (max. 4 April 15th) and Loe Pool (max. 6 on the late date of June 10th). The species was more abundant in autumn, but numbers were still unexceptional with only Drift Res. having significant passage. Maximum numbers: Drift Res.: 14 Aug. 26th, 30 Aug. 30th. Stithians Res.: 11 July 24th, 10 Aug. 24th. Camel Est.: 12 July 10th. Ruan Lanihorne: 9 July 20th. Second winter period: Truro River: one Nov. 3rd, although this could have been a late migrant. Drift Res.: one Nov. 13th and 27th. East Looe River: one Nov. 26th to end of year. Wadebridge: one Dec. 4th.

Polbathic: up to three present Nov. 20th-Dec. 18th.

SPOTTED SANDPIPER — Very rare vagrant. Drift Res.: one juvenile Sept. 22nd to at least Nov. 13th, KA. WA. MPS. DSF. MH et al. It is possible from unconfirmed rumours that this bird may have been seen considerably later than Nov. 13th, and indeed may have wintered, but at this stage confirmed records are lacking. The first Cornish mainland record since 1978 and the 5th in all. Accepted by BBRC. TURNSTONE — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few "summer".

Maximum numbers: Hannafore, Looe: 150 April 10th, 110 Oct. 23rd. Newlyn Harbour: 150+ April 4th. East Looe River: 110 Dec. 31st. Between 50/100 noted at Sennen Cove, Camel Est., and Tamar Est. In June c.30 were still present at Spit Beach, Par on the 25th and up to four were still at Bude until June 2nd. Inland: Drift Res.: one or two Sept. lst-16th. Crowan Res.: one Sept. 3rd. Siblyback Res.: six Sept. 4th. Crowdy Res.: one Sept. 6th. Stithians Res.: up to three Sept. 6th-Oct. 23rd, and one Dec. 17th. Interestingly, several of the above inland birds occurred during or just after the severe gales of early Sept. Rather unusual was one at Skewjack on Jan. 18th. 64 on the beach at Landulph, Tamar Est. March 26th, were unusually far up the estuary. 60+ at St. Merryn Airfield Jan. 4th SMC, and 77 on grassland at The Lizard Nov. 27th E. Grace were unusual records of flocks, no doubt displaced by gales, turning up at very atypical localities.

RED-NECKED PHALAROPE — Rare vagrant.

Sennen Cove: one Feb. 28th PH. The first Feb. record since one at Hayle Feb. 20th 1940. Although apparently a winter record, it could well refer to a very early spring migrant. Recorded in consecutive years after a fourteen year gap.

GREY PHALAROPE — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

First winter period: Towan Head: one Jan. 6th, three Jan. 7th. Autumn and second winter period: St. Ives: Sept. — five 3rd, two 10th, five 11th, and two 16th. Oct. — one 7th, 25

49 16th, seven 17th, one 19th, one 28th. Nov. — two 27th. Dec. — one/two 26th. Par: one Sept. 10th. Pendeen Watch: two west Sept. 18th. Towan Head: in Oct. one 8th-9th, 18 16th, 7 17th, and four 18th. Nanquidno: one Oct. 9th. Portwrinkle: one first winter bird Oct. 20th. Porthgwarra: one Oct. 28th. Hayle Est.: one Oct. 29th. Interesting was the increase in inland records linked with the gales of early Sept. and Oct. College Res.: one Sept. 3rd-4th. Upper Tamar Res.: one Sept. 4th, one Oct. 19th and 21st. Porth Res.: one Oct. 16th.

PHALAROPE Sp. Towan Head: one west Sept. 3rd. Rosemullion Head: one south Sept. 23rd.

POMARINE SKUA — Uncommon passage migrant.

An excellent year, with even more records than 1982. First winter period: St. Ives: two Feb. 1st LPW. Spring passage: Rame Head: one light phase adult east April 30th RWG. VRT. Porthgwarra: two light phase adults west May 6th SMC. Autumn passage: St. Ives: all birds passing west. 20 maximum Sept. 3rd EG. RS. VRT. LPW et al, two Sept. 4th RMB. PA. IAP, one Sept. 10th DSF. GH. IAP, four including adults Sept. 11th RMB. RIA. IAP, eight plus Sept. 16th EG. PA. DSF, two Oct. 11th DSF, 36 Oct. 16th VRT. DSF. MPS. PTS, 16 Oct. 17th DSF. JH, one Nov. 27th DSF. AHJH. On Sept. 3rd, most were light phase adults, with a few first winter birds, one adult in full winter plumage and two dark phase adults VRT. On Oct. 16th, the magnificent passage ended with nine together at almost last light. Most passed very close. Many were adults, mostly light phase, with full tails, although a good number were first year birds. One dark phase adult did not have the usual dull dark brown plumage. It was virtually black, with no wing flashes even at the closest range of 100 metres. Melanistic? VRT. Pendeen Watch: 15 west Sept. 3rd. Majority adults with full tails, other immatures suspected but not positively identified JFC. DC. one west Sept. 17th HPKR. Towan Head: all birds passing west. At least six (three light phase adults and three juveniles) Sept. 3rd SMC. EMC. PWN. GJC, one juvenile Sept. 4th SMC et al, one Sept. 10th GJC, one dark adult Sept. 15th JH, two juveniles Sept. 16th SMC. EMC et al, one intermediate adult Oct. 17th SMC. EMC et al. The Rumps, Polzeath: eight west Sept. 3rd being four light phase adults and four juveniles IAC. Botallack Head: one west Sept. 10th HPKR. Cape Cornwall: one immature Sept. 16th ARP. HCK, one light phase adult south Oct. 16th RS. Rosemullion Head: one south Sept. 21st PMcC. Rame Head: one juvenile west Oct. 1st RWG. Lands End: one west Oct. 2nd VRT.

ARCTIC SKUA — Passage migrant.

Spring passage: Porthgwarra: one west April 10th and June 11th, two on June 4th.

50 Rame Head: one west April 23rd, one east April 30th, May 6th and 7th, but two on May 22nd. Bude: four north May 1st and one north May 2nd. , The Lizard: one west May 6th. Mounts Bay: two west May 12th. : two May 14th. Other than on the bumper days of Sept. 3rd and Oct. 16th, autumn passage was little more than average. There was only one July record, eight in Aug. and none after Oct. 31st. Maximum passage numbers: St. Ives: noted only in Sept./Oct. A total of 339 passed in Sept. and 102 in Oct. The Sept. total was much enlarged by the count of 245 + passing west during the storm of Sept. 3rd. Most of these birds were adults, many dark phase. In Oct. the only good count was 60 moving west in gales on the 16th, many being pale phase adults. The only other counts of note were 43 Sept. 11th, 20 Sept. 10th and 16th, and 17 on Oct. 11th. Towan Head: passage noted mainly in ones and twos Sept. 2nd-Oct. 18th, but 118 moved west on Sept. 3rd, and 17 on Oct. 16th. Pendeen Watch: 175 west Sept. 3rd, 62 west Sept. 11th. Godrevy: 95 west Sept. 3rd. The Rumps, Polzeath: 54+ west in six hours Sept. 3rd. Between five and ten noted off Rosemullion Head, Botallack Head and Cape Cornwall, with smaller numbers at another thirteen coastal points, usually birds moving through during gales. An unusual inland record of a bird at flying over the A30 on Oct. 16th EG. LONG-TAILED SKUA — Vagrant. An unprecedented year, with at least eleven during the autumn. Allowing for duplication, there was still a minimum of seven on Sept. 3rd. St. Ives: four west Sept. 3rd. An adult in breeding plumage, a sub adult, a juvenile and a very pale grey first winter bird VRT. JH. RC. LPW. BKM. RS, one dark phase juvenile west Oct. 16th DSF. VRT. HT. This was a dull dark brown bird with greyer unbarred underparts. One, probably a first winter bird Nov. 27th AHJH. DSF. SCH. LPW.

51 Towan Head: four juveniles west Sept. 3rd SMC. EMC. PWN et al. Pendeen Watch: a fine adult and a very distinctive pale morph Sept. 3rd JFC. DC. No doubt two of the St. Ives birds. Rosemullion Head: one immature south Sept. 8th PMcC. Botallack Head: one immature west Sept. 10th HPKR.

GREAT SKUA — Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. First winter period: St. Ives: singles Jan. 5th, 8th and 15th and Feb. 1st, three Jan. 30th. Towan Head: one west Feb. 1st. Spring passage: Porthgwarra: one west April 10th. Rame Head: one east April 30th, singles May 5th and 13th. Bass Point: one west May 6th. Autumn passage was noticeably slow to begin. Very few records for July/Aug. then a sudden surge in the storms of early Sept. Main passage noted then until mid-Oct. with several records through to Nov. Good counts at St. Ives and Pendeen on 27th, and also some Dec. records. Maximum numbers: St. Ives: 450+ on Sept. 3rd started the autumn, although only 18 counted the next day. Passage was then unremarkable until 231 passed west in gales Oct. 16th, with 26 on the 17th. Only singles then for the rest of Oct. and early Nov. but 90+ on the rather late date of Nov. 27th. In Dec. there were seven on 9th, and two 26th and 27th. On Sept. 3rd many were showing the first signs of extra white in their wings associated with their moult. This was again noted in more advanced state in several birds on Oct. 16th VRT. Birds were seen to force Sooty and Cory's Shearwaters into the sea with their piratical attacks on Sept. 3rd, and at least twice to take Storm Petrels from the flock feeding in St. Ives Bay RS. Pendeen Watch: 400 west Sept. 3rd, 18 west Sept. 11th, and 77 west in three hours Nov. 27th. Godrevy Head: 227 passed west Sept. 3rd. Towan Head: 135 passed west Sept. 3rd, then small numbers until 49 on Oct. 16th. Eight passed west Nov. 26th, nine Nov. 27th and one Dec. 9th. The Rumps, Polzeath: 72+ west Sept. 3rd. Passage tailed off sharply after 1000 hrs. Pentire Point: ten Oct. 16th.

Small numbers of up to three from fourteen other coastal sites.

SOUTH POLAR SKUA — Very rare vagrant. St. Ives: one, probably an intermediate phase first winter bird Sept. 3rd VRT, one Oct. 16th DSF et al. Details submitted to the Rarities Committee on these and the 1982 birds, and decisions will be published when known. Now identified in consecutive years. May be proved to be a regular but rare passage migrant. Undoubtedly, publication of "Seabirds - An identification guide" by Peter Harrison has been of invaluable assistance in differentiating several species within difficult groups.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL — Uncommon visitor (mainly winter).

An incredible year, with perhaps as many as 47 individuals being involved. First winter period and spring: Swanpool, Falmouth: a first winter Jan. 9th-Feb. 13th, and again March 13th, but a second bird present Jan. 23rd and Feb. 13th, one second winter Jan. 30th-Feb. 26th, and an adult Jan. 30th and Feb. 26th. Mounts Bay: one first winter Jan. lOth-April 12th with a second first winter bird

52 present Jan. 22nd and March 17th, a winter plumaged adult Jan. 13th and Feb. 26th, and an adult in partial summer plumage Feb. 12th. A second winter present March 3rd and 26th. Gannel: one first winter Jan. 19th and March 13th. Hayle Est.: one first summer Jan. 27th, and a winter plumaged adult at Copperhouse the same day. Drift Res.: one winter plumaged adult Jan. 28th, thought to be the Mounts Bay bird, and a first winter March 12th and April 13th. Maenporth: one first winter and one second winter Jan. 28th. Millbrook: one first winter Jan. 29th and Feb. 5th, one second winter Feb. 26th and an adult Jan. 29th. Looe Est.: one first winter Jan. 30th and Feb. 13th. Fowey Est.: one first winter Feb. 7th. Par Beach: an adult in winter plumage Feb. 8th and 12th. Autumn and second winter period: A marked influx into the west of the county in late Dec. Stithians Res.: a bird of the year still in juvenile plumage Sept. 5th-8th and still present Oct. 20th, one adult Dec. 28th and 30th. Mounts Bay: one second winter Sept. 7th and Oct. 3rd-23rd, also Nov. 24th-Dec. 31st, one first winter Sept. 25th-27th, and an adult Nov. 13th and Dec. 28th-31st. The Dec. bird thought to be the same bird seen on slightly earlier dates at Hayle Est. Hayle Est.: one juvenile Sept. 15th, one Oct. 2nd and 11th, a winter plumaged adult Nov. 23rd and Dec. 26th-29th, one first winter Dec. 29th and 31st, and one second winter at Copperhouse Dec. 23rd-31st. St. Ives: a juvenile Sept. 15th-16th, thought to be the Hayle Est. bird. Towan Head: two adults Oct. 9th. Lynher Est.: one first winter Oct. 15th, one winter plumaged adult Dec. 11th. Drift Res.: one first winter Oct. 23rd, two first winter Dec. 29th, one winter plumaged adult Dec. 3rd-31st, with a second adult present Dec. 29th. Skewjack: one first winter bird Nov. 19th. : one winter plumaged adult on school playing fields Dec. 20th and 22nd. (Not the bird from nearby Lynher Est.) Par Beach Pool: a first winter Dec. 25th/26th. Loe Pool: one second winter Dec. 28th. Swanpool, Falmouth: one adult and two first winter Dec. 30th.

LITTLE GULL — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Few in the first winter period with maximum: ten at St. Ives Jan. 9th-Feb. 1st, and five at Sennen Cove Feb. 26th. Ones and twos noted also at Penzance, Hayle, Maenporth, Towan Head, Camel Est. and Swanpool. In spring; passage showed from the end of March, when seven at Hayle on the 23rd and up to five in Mounts Bay on the 27th, four off St. Ives on 28th, and six at Sennen Cove April 3rd. Singles were noted at the Camel Est., St. Johns Lake, and The Gannel, with two at Skewjack and one or two at Swanpool. The last was one at St. Ives May 14th. The first for autumn was a juvenile at Siblyback Res. Aug. 15th. Very few turned up in the Sept. storms and only one to three were noted at St. Ives and Towan Head. Even by Oct. no more than a few were being noted during sea watches, with the maximum being five off St. Ives Oct. 31st. Up to three were seen at Hayle Est., St. Johns Lake, Mevagissey, Par, Camel Est., Gannel, Swanpool/Rosemullion Head and Nanquidno. Birds were noted inland at Tamar Lakes, Stithians, Drift and more unusually one on a pool at St. Buryan. In the second winter period; singles noted at St. Ives, Bude, Mounts Bay, Millbrook and two at Falmouth.

53 SABINE'S GULL — Scarce passage migrant (autumn) A stunning 'wreck' of this species in the north west storms of Sept. 3rd. Because of duplication at north coast sea-watching sites it is difficult to assess the numbers but it is likely that at least 150 were involved. It is known that large gatherings of this species occur in the Bay of Biscay in early autumn, but this is by far the largest number ever to be storm-driven onto the British coast. Adults of this species tend to outnumber immatures in early autumn, but it was nonetheless amazing that all except three of the birds on Sept. 3rd were adults, and virtually all of these in full summer plumage. Some birds stayed in sheltered bays for a few days before moving on. A more usual, but still good, passage followed for the rest of the autumn, but for anyone who had the good fortune to see these beautiful gulls on Sept. 3rd, in unprecedented numbers, battling around our headlands, with the backdrop of wild, storm-lashed seas, the experience was unforgettable. St. Ives: 100+ passed west or rested in the bay Sept. 3rd VRT. EG. RS. BRF. LPW et al. All except two were adults in breeding plumage, a few beginning to lose black on the head. Several fed on bread and scraps thrown to them in the sheltered harbour area. A single flock resting in the bay around fishing boats, numbered 52 birds VRT. Whilst birds swooped close to feed, SJT noted their calls "ker-kek-kek" similar to marsh terns. Up to 30 adults Sept. 4th RC. IAP. PA. BRF., up to four adults and two immatures Sept. 10th BRF. DSF. EG. VRT. IAP. LPW, one adult and one immature Sept. 11th RIA. DSF. IAP, one adult and one or two immatures Sept. 16th PA. RC. BRF EG. LPW, one immature Oct. 5th SPF, three or four immatures Oct. 16th DSF. VRT, one immature Oct. 17th JH. Pendeen Watch: 21 summer plumaged adults west Sept. 3rd JFC. DC. Others suspected a long way out at sea. Towan Head: probably 30+ birds during Sept. 3rd, with eleven still present off the sewer outfall at dusk. Mostly summer plumaged adults with one immature SMC. GJC. PWN. JH. 22 summer plumaged adults off the sewer in the morning Sept. 4th SMC. DLT, but 29 including three immatures resting off the sewer at dusk EJC. JH, six summer plumaged adults Sept. 5th SMC. EJC. RH, one immature Oct. 16th SMC. PMcV. JH, two Oct. 17th FMC. EJC, one of these also present 18th and 19th PJD. DLT. Park Head: one adult in summer plumage west Sept. 3rd JD, one adult in summer plumage west Sept. 4th JD. The Rumps: four adults in summer plumage and four in winter plumage between 10.55/11.50 Sept. 3rd IAC.

54 Bude: three summer plumaged adults sheltering on Bude Est. Sept. 3rd IK. MAG. Loe Bar: one adult in summer plumage feeding close inshore Sept. 3rd JSG, two adults in summer plumage and two immatures feeding 200 metres off the bar Sept. 4th JSG. Rosemullion Head: one immature south Sept. 21st PMcC. Hannafore, Looe: one immature Oct. llth-26th JHF. SCM. AECA. Cape Cornwall: one immature south Oct. 16th RS. Trevose Head: one Oct. 17th RBr.

BONAPARTE'S GULL — Very rare vagrant.

Swanpool, Falmouth: an adult assuming summer plumage March 5th MAG. Accepted by Rarities Committee. The thirteenth County mainland record and the fourth in the last three years. Accepted by BBRC.

BLACK-HEADED GULL — Breeds at one site. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Bred again at Crowdy Res. 100+ birds at colony June 14th, and four downy young plus three older young seen. One, six to eight week old bird July 6th, and 20 small juveniles July 12th. First winter period and spring: Hayle Est.: up to 1300 in Jan. and 1000 in Feb. but 134 the maximum in March. Drift Res.: 350 Jan. 18th, but 1000 present March 3rd. Bude: 2000 Jan. 21st. Maenporth: 2000+ Jan. 28th. Ruan Lanihorne: 1700+ March 2nd. A few birds present at sites throughout June. Numbers not great in autumn with even less Nov./Dec. Hayle Est.: about 600 regularly present mid-July/mid-Sept., but 1500 on Sept. 6th, and 800 Oct. 10th, but maximum 500 in Nov./Dec. Tresilian River: 2100 Sept. 9th. Lynher Est.: 2070 Sept. 11th. Camel Est.: 1800+ Sept. 14th. Gweek: 1000+ Oct. 15th. Looe: 5000+ Oct. 22nd. Ruan Lanihorne: 2000 Dec. 22nd. Bude: 3000 Dec. 31st.

Unusual was an albino in Mounts Bay; March 9th-10th.

RING-BILLED GULL — Vagrant. Another excellent year with at least eleven individuals seen in the county. Hayle Est.: the second winter bird from 1982 last seen March 28th LPW. GH. JH. Penzance/Eastern Green: one winter plumaged adult Jan. 13th JH, one second winter March 19th-20th VRT. PA, possibly the Hayle bird. One adult Dec. 30th ARD. PDH. JHWR, and one first winter Dec. 31st DSF, perhaps the bird seen ten days earlier at Long Rock Pool. Par: one first winter Jan. 20th-March 3rd SMC. BTSC. EMC. RS. SCM et al. VRT noted its call as "similar to common gull but thinner and higher pitched". One first winter Dec. 11th and into 1984 MPF. IAP. RBr. Swanpool: one second winter Feb. 2nd-20th and possibly until March 6th BRF. PH. VRT. RIA et al, one adult Feb. 2nd BRF. PH. HT. and again Feb. 10th RB. Newlyn: one adult April 1st BKM. Drift Res.: one adult April 1st HPKR. St. Johns Lake: one first winter Dec. 18th RS. Long Rock Pool: one first winter Dec. 21st LPW. Other reports received, but with insufficient or no descriptions.

c e All accepted by BBRC except the Newlyn bird which is probably the same as the Drift bird.

COMMON GULL — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few "summer". Few records received. The only large numbers coincided with the Feb./March migration. Fowey Est.: 700 Feb. 7th. Ruan Lanihorne: 302 Feb. 12th, 351 Feb. 27th, 250+ March 2nd. St. Johns Lake: 160 March 14th. Last noted in spring May 2nd at Cremyll, and first for autumn July 21st at Hayle.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Only one breeding record. A pair nesting at Cadgwith May 28th. Very few in Jan. with 150 at Hayle Est. on the 10th and 40 at Bude on the 30th, being the only noteworthy numbers. Numbers increased from early Feb. and the following significant numbers were noted: Hayle Est.: 500 Feb. 6th, c.400 Feb. 21st. Lynher Est.: c.300 Feb. 26th. Ruan Lanihorne: 225 March 2nd. Skewjack: passage noted March 13th-May 11th, with maximum 60 April 10th. Nr. Kynance: 400 on grassland April 10th. Autumn passage was more pronounced than usual with huge numbers moving in early Sept. storms. Porthgwarra: c.1000 south west Sept. 3rd HPKR. Bodmin Moor: during the north west gale Sept. 3rd, there was a continual southwards migration throughout the afternoon over various parts of the moor, hundreds must have been involved SCM. A sustained movement south west during Sept. 4th, with small parties flying leisurely in this direction both north and south of the A30 in the area JAdEM. Bude: 50 south Sept. 3rd, 70 south nr. Bude Sept. 4th. At other times during autumn: Skewjack: 170 Aug. 28th. Rosemullion Head: 90 south Sept. 21st consisted of 30 adults and 60 immatures. Around 50 noted at Sennen Cove, Hayle Est., and the Camel Est. In the second winter period maximum numbers: Loe Pool: 325 Nov. 30th. Hayle Est.: 129 Dec. 2nd, 200 Dec. 18th. Ruan Lanihorne: 50 Dec. 22nd. Birds of the Scandinavian race 'fuscus' noted: Gannel: a few Feb. 20th. Hayle Est.: several Feb. 24th. Lizard: two Aug. 31st. One adult west at Park Head Sept. 4th, had a white bar on the wings running diagonally from the carpal joint to the trailing edge of the secondaries JD.

HERRING GULL — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Few coastal breeding records, although no change in status noted in the county. Colonies at Cadgwith, Rinsey Head (42 nests in three areas), Hells Mouth/Navax Pt., /Stepper Pt. (good numbers), Trewavas Head (40 nests in four areas), Mullion Cove (65 nests). Roof nests noted as follows: Porthleven: about ten.

56 Hayle: unfledged juveniles seen on Slades roof, and on a house roof at Foundry Hill in July. Looe: widespread. Torpoint: a pair raised one young on a roof in Moorview Terrace. The first roof nest in the area. Liskeard: an increase in roof nests in the area. Surely the furthest inland of any nesting herring gulls in Cornwall. Outside the breeding season very under recorded, with the maximum number being only 360 at Hayle Est. Oct. 10th. Other large gatherings of note were inland, with 325 at Stithians Res. Dec. 3rd, and 300 at Upper Tamar Res. Aug. 25th. Unusual: At Newquay, a pair raised two young from a ground nest at the edge of the main, central car park. Neither parents nor young were in the least perturbed by the presence of myriads of holidaymakers practically stepping on them SMC. Towan Head: a first winter bird Nov. 26th, with two outer primaries brilliant white, flew west SMC.

YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL — Very rare vagrant. Looe Est.: an adult Jan. 30th, apparently of the Mediterranean race 'michahellis'. SCM. AECA.

(See also, the paper by SCM on this 'species' on page 106).

ICELAND GULL — Scarce visitor (mainly winter). Another excellent year, with the bulk of records in the first winter period and spring. St. Ives: one first winter Jan. 1st RB, one adult Feb. 5th-6th LPW. MB. Copperhouse: one first winter Jan. 3rd LPW, one second summer Feb. 24th-25th LPW. Swanpool: one first winter Jan. llth-Feb. 19th SCH. BRF. HT. EG et al, another first winter present Jan. 30th EG, and Feb. 19th RIA. One second winter Jan. llth-Feb. 26th SMC. ADC. RC. RIA. MPS. One third winter Jan. 14th-Feb. 26th PMcC. BRF. HT. RC. One adult Jan. 20th-Feb. 19th SCH. VRT. PA. BRF et al. It is probable that at least two adults were involved although no more than one was seen at a time. Newlyn: one first winter Jan. 12th-March 12th LPW. SCH. EG. GH. RIA. Noted to be in first summer plumage by the end of its stay. One adult Feb. 12th JH. Maenporth: one first winter Jan. 28th SMC. BTSC. and Jan. 30th EG, one third year Jan. 30th EG. Looe: one adult Jan. 29th SJT. NJC. CRW and March 31st SCM, one second winter April 8th JHF. Hayle Harbour: one adult Feb. 4th LPW. Par: one first winter Feb. 2nd JMR. Drift Res.: one first winter Feb. 12th-16th LPW, one first summer March 6th and 12th HPKR, one second year May 4th-6th MPS. SMC. BTSC. Marazion Beach/Mounts Bay: one adult Feb. 19th LPW, and March 2nd SCH. LPW, one third winter March 13th-April 11th, MPS. LPW. Hayle Est.: one first winter Feb. 24th-March 26th when in first summer plumage MPS. HPKR. VRT. LPW, one second winter April 17th MPS, one third winter April 14th LPW. Gannel: one second winter March 5th-April 4th EJC. SMC. BTSC. EMC. LW. Skewjack: one first summer March 26th HPKR, one second year April 7th HPKR. Padstow: one first/second year bird April 4th GRW. MW. Gwithian: one second winter May 11th LPW. Autumn and second winter period: Hayle Est.: one first winter Dec. 24th into 1984 MPS. LPW. DSF et al.

57 Porthpean: one first winter Dec. 25th-27th IAP. Newlyn: one third winter Dec. 28th-31st LPW. ARD. PDH. JHWR. Lizard: one, probably a second winter, flew east Dec. 29th PS. Falmouth: one first winter Dec. 30th ARD. PDH. JHWR.

GLAUCOUS GULL — Uncommon visitor (mainly winter) Not a bad year, but again easily outnumbered by Iceland Gulls. First winter period and spring: Mounts Bay: one second winter Jan. lst-March 27th RB. SMC. MPS. EG et al. Noted to be in second summer plumage at the end of its stay. One first winter Jan. llth-March 3rd MPS. JH. SCH. LPW, with a second first winter present Jan. 26th-28th JH. SCH. LPW, and a second summer Feb. 12th- March 26th LPW. SCH. RC. RIA. Hayle Est.: one second winter Jan. 2nd LPW and Feb. 24th MPS, one first winter March 17th LPW, and one first summer at Copperhouse Jan. 20th LPW. St. Ives: one first winter Jan. 6th-Feb. 12th LPW. BKM. BP. MB. and one third/fourth year March 3rd JBB. SB. Swanpool: one first winter Jan. 11th PMcC. Jan. 22nd SCH, and Feb. 19th RC and one adult Jan. 16th-Feb. 26th RB. VRT. BRF. RC. Towan Head: one first winter Jan. 15th DLT. Lizard Pt.: one immature Jan. 23rd EGC. Maneporth: one second year Jan. 30th EG. Nanquidno: one March 14th MCT. Gannel: one first winter March 14th SMC. Autumn and second winter period: Rosemullion Head: one first winter west Oct. 1st PMcC. Towan Head: one juvenile Oct. 11th SMC. ABR. St. Ives: one adult passed the Island west Oct. 16th. VRT. Eastern Green, Penzance: one first winter Nov. 12th LPW.

HYBRID GULL

Par: one first winter type bird late Dec. and into 1984. A rather difficult individual, resembling an Iceland Gull at first glance but with a head shape and bill reminiscent of Herring. Parentage at present uncertain but Glaucous/Herring hybrid most probable. No tail or secondary bars.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Breeding records: Trewavas Head: two nests. Mullion Cove: one nest May 8th. Cadgwith: two pairs May 28th. Chapel Cliff, : a pair nested, and probably another east of Polperro. Not well recorded but maximum numbers as follows: Skewjack: 100 east Jan. 22nd, otherwise only 1-4 per day. Falmouth Docks: 450 Feb. 21st (75% adults). Loe Bar: c.500 March 11th. Hayle Est.: maximum 120 on March 14th and 100 on Dec. 18th. Nr. Kynance: c.100 on grassland April 10th. St. Johns Lake: 300 storm driven birds Dec. 18th. Lynher Est.: 200+ storm driven birds Dec. 18th. Ruan Lanihorne: 250 Dec. 22nd. Swanpool: a very small bird Feb. 20th, showing all characteristics of the species but only about size of Herring Gull SJT.

58 KITTIWAKE — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

Breeding records: Rinsey Head area: three colonies 41, 21 and 10 breeding, plus about 25 non- breeders. The statement in the 1982 report should I think refer to Rinsey Cove and not Rinsey Head. The Cove is now a small part of the colony at Rinsey, although there has been a great contrast in breeding numbers at the Cove, as BK noted. SB. Trewavas Head area: two colonies with 146 and 32 breeding, plus 21 non-breeders SB. Gull Rock, Mullion: 266 nests counted PMcC, plus a further 55 on Mullion Island RDP. Manare Pt., nr. Camels Cove: 30/40 nests MJB. Huers Hut, Newquay: not visited in the breeding season, but c.1000 birds on ledges March 19th and the colony looked overfull. PJD. : present May/June, but success not known as access overgrown BA. Merope Rock, Mother Ivy's Bay: for the second year about twelve nests on the north side of the rock PD. Maximum numbers on passage: Towan Head: 2400 in 1£ hours Feb. 1st, 5600+ in 3± hours Nov. 27th, 3500+ in 3.5 hours Dec. 9th. Porthgwarra: 3000+ west in one hour (0800-0900) March 12th. 2200 west April 10th. Pendeen Watch: 4000 west Nov. 25th. Numbers were noticeably low in the big storms of Sept. and Oct. and in fact at St. Ives the species was actually outnumbered by Sabine's Gulls on Sept. 3rd!

SANDWICH TERN — Passage migrant. First noted in spring; seven west at Rinsey Head March 14th. There followed a rather poor passage with birds at Hayle Est., Porthgwarra, Par, Mounts Bay and Gerrans Bay in late March, and more widely scattered migrants in April/May. Maximum noted only 15 off Pendower Beach April 1st. In autumn good numbers seen on sea watches, but off-passage birds only average. Maximum numbers: Camel Est.: 35 + Aug. 26th, 45 + Sept. 6th. One on Oct. 14th had a red ring on left leg. St. Ives: c.45 west Sept. 3rd, 150+ Sept. 10th, 31 Oct. 5th. Hayle Est.: 30 Sept. 7th-16th, but 75 present at the end Sept. Towan Head: 35+ Sept. 3rd, 64 Sept. 17th. Rame Head: 50 west Sept. 4th. Pendeen Watch: 63 west Sept. 11th, 103 west Sept. 17th, 50 west in one hour Oct. 10th. Rosemullion Head: abnormally high numbers for this site, 20 south Sept. 21st, 50 south 11 north Sept. 22nd, 39 south 6 north Sept. 23rd, 2 south 14 north Sept. 25th. The last seen were nine off St. Ives Oct. 17th. Inland: Crowdy Res.: four flying south west Aug. 18th. Penryn: at 0930 Sept. 22nd, two flew SSW over Penryn railway station at a height of 200 ft. presumably heading for College Res. Unusual: Newquay: during Oct. regularly noted on passage during the hours of darkness at Flycellars. One flock of 40+ headed back out to sea on reaching the night lights of Newquay town JH.

59 ROSEATE TERN — Scarce passage migrant. Only two in spring, but an increase in autumn records attributable to the storms in early Sept. and mid-Oct. Spring passage: Rame Head: two west May 22nd RWG. Autumn passage: Porthkidney Beach: one adult Aug. 22nd LPW. St. Ives: one adult Sept. 2nd RC, one adult and one juvenile west Sept. 3rd VRT. MPS. RC, one adult Sept. 4th PA, one adult Sept. 16th PA. BRF. DSF. GH, one adult Oct. 15th DSF, four adults Oct. 16th DSF. VRT, one adult Oct. 17th DSF. Amazingly, one bird on Oct. 16th was in pristine summer plumage even with a rose- tinged breast VRT. Towan Head: eleven, inc. at least nine juveniles west Sept. 3rd SMC. EMC. PWN et al. Porthgwarra: one Sept. 3rd HPKR. The Rumps: two adults west Sept. 3rd LAC.

COMMON TERN — Passage migrant. First for spring was one off Pendower Beach April 3rd. Passage was very thin everywhere with usually no more than five to seven being seen at any one site through to the end of May. Exceptional, however was c.40 at Par Beach on May 21st. Autumn passage was more widespread, but with the exception of storm-driven birds seen on sea-watches, and perhaps the passage at St. Johns Lake, numbers were low. Maximum numbers: St. Ives: 250 west Sept. 3rd, 60+ Sept. 10th. Hayle Est.: 30+ Aug. 25th, 28 Sept. 2nd. Trevose Head: c.20 Aug. 20th. The Rumps: 37 west Sept. 3rd. St. Johns Lake: a good autumn passage with 52 on Aug. 23rd. None noted after 16 west at St. Ives Oct. 16th. Inland: Crowdy Res.: one Aug. 8th and one Sept. 11th. Tamar Lakes: one Aug. 6th, one Aug. 17th, two Aug. 21st, one Sept. 17th, six Sept. 23rd-24th, one Oct. 2nd. College Res.: one Sept. 11th. Drift Res.: two Sept. 15th, one Sept. 17th and two Sept. 20th. Stithians Res.: one Sept. 26th. Unusual: Hayle Est.: an adult, Oct. 2nd had moulted a major primary, probably the fifth from both wings. I have noted this exceptional moult once or twice before, usually in late Oct. VRT. ARCTIC TERN — Uncommon passage migrant. In spring one at St. Just-in-Roseland April 17th, then a series of records in mid/late May, after a period of gales. Porthkidney: one May 6th. Hannafore, Looe: 30 May 16th, eight May 19th, 12 May 20th. Rosemullion Head: one north May 17th. Porthgwarra: 21 west May 22nd. Autumn passage: Porthgwarra: one east July 2nd. Bude Bay: one adult Aug. 10th. Rame Head: one juvenile Aug. 21st. Par: one Aug. 23rd.

60

St. Johns Lake: single juveniles Aug. 23rd-Sept. 1st, with five juveniles on Sept. 4th. Hayle Est.: one Aug. 25th, two Aug. 29th, one Sept. 3rd. St. Ives: c.100 west Sept. 3rd, virtually all juveniles, c.20 all juveniles Sept. 10th, one juvenile Sept. 11th, one Oct. 5th, and seven west including one adult Oct. 16th. Towan Head: three Sept. 3rd, six Sept. 10th, one juvenile Oct. 15th, and two juveniles Oct. 16th. The Rumps: five west Sept. 3rd. Looe: one juvenile Sept. 4th. Lynher Est.: one juvenile Sept. 4th, and probably the same bird at St. Germans. Pentire Pt.: eight Oct. 16th. Inland: Siblyback Res.: two juveniles Sept. 4th. Drift Res.: two juveniles Sept. 15th-16th. Upper Tamar Res.: one adult Sept. 17th. In the opinion of the Editors, identification of this species is causing problems. Members are referred to the chapters on identification of sterna terns in "Frontiers of Bird Identification" where the tricky problems are given full treatment.

'COMMIC TERN Rame Head: flock of c.50 flying east May 30th. St. Ives: 50+ Sept. 3rd. Botallack Head: three west Sept. 10th. Pendeen Watch: 43 west Sept. 11th, 6 west Sept. 17th. Rosemullion Head: 39 south Sept. 21st. LITTLE TERN — Uncommon passage migrant. Spring passage: Mevagissey: one April 3rd, one April 14th. Par Beach: two May 2nd, one May 14th. Hayle Est.: one May 22nd. Autumn passage: Kingsmill Creek: six Aug. 19th. Mounts Bay: eight Aug. 21st. : three Aug. 28th. Towan Head: three Sept. 3rd. Camel Est.: seven Sept. 3rd, two Oct. 1st, one Oct. 4th, one Oct. 12th-14th. Porthgwarra: one west Sept. 4th, one west Sept. 10th. St. Ives: three Sept. 10th, one Oct. 17th. Godrevy Head: one Sept. 11th. Lynher Est.: one Sept. 25th. Hayle Est.: seven Sept. 26th, then one or two Sept. 28th-Oct. 4th. Rame Head: one west Oct. 1st. Trevose Head: two Oct. 11th. WHISKERED TERN — Rare vagrant. Nr. Sennen: one adult May 6th SMC. BTSC. MPS. The 5th County mainland record and the first since 1968. Accepted by BBRC. BLACK TERN — Uncommon passage migrant. A very mediocre year. Only one record in spring and few in autumn, with most of these being rather late, in Oct. Spring passage: Rame Head: two east May 5th. Autumn passage: Crowdy Res.: one adult July 26th, one Oct. 1st.

61 Tamar Lakes: one adult Aug. 6th, one juvenile Aug. 10th, one adult Aug. 25th- 26th, twelve including two adults Sept. 23rd, six Oct. 2nd, one juvenile Oct. 8th. Hayle Est.: one Aug. 13th, three Sept. 22nd, one Sept. 26th, four Oct. 1st, one 2nd and two 3rd. Drift Res.: one Aug. 29th-31st. Camel Est.: one Aug. 31st-Sept. 3rd, one Oct. 12th. Towan Head: one Sept. 8th, eleven Sept. 10th, nine Oct. lst-3rd, eight 5th, one 6th and two 7th. St. Ives: one juvenile Sept. 10th, two Oct. 5th, four 11th, one 17th. Pendeen Watch: one Sept. 19th. Stithians Res.: one Sept. 22nd. RMV Scillonian: two near Wolf Rock Oct. 1st. Lynher Est.: two flew upriver Oct. 1st. Godrevy: two Oct. 2nd. Millbrook: two juveniles Oct. 7th, one juvenile Oct. 19th-22nd.

GUILLEMOT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season records: Hells Mouth: apparently a poor breeding season. St. Agnes: 24 May 14th. Mullion: up to eleven in May. Marble Cliffs, Trevone: five nesting. Pentireglaze: 50 on ledges May 27th, 40 on ledges June 24th. Short Island: 10 May 8th, 14 on ledges June 12th. The Sisters: 65 May 8th, 80 May 23rd, c.75 on ledges June 12th. Also noted in small numbers at Carters Rock and Trevose Head. The Sisters: 85 Feb. 25th. The Lizard: c.200 passing Dec. 29th. RAZORBILL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season records: Hells Mouth: apparently a poor breeding season. St. Agnes: 16 May 14th. Mullion: one or two in May. Marble Cliffs, Trevone: twelve nesting. Pentireglaze: twelve May 27th. Short Island: ten on ledges June 12th. The Sisters: 20 May 23rd, c.15 June 12th. Also noted in small numbers Carters Rock and Trevose Head. Bude Bay: 30 north May 1st. Lizard: c.100 passing Dec. 29th. BLACK GUILLEMOT — Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Padstow: one in winter plumage Oct. 23rd-24th VJH, and possibly present for about a week previous to this. Probably the same bird in first winter plumage Nov. 29th-Dec. 10th, SMC. EMC. BTSC. FMC. RS et al. At last, a long-staying individual which allowed many Cornish (and Devonian) birdwatchers to get to grips with this elusive species. LITTLE AUK — Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Very few this year. St. Ives: two Jan. 15th LPW. BKM, three west Dec. 9th DSF. LPW. MPS. Trevose Head: one west Dec. 12th SMC.

62 PUFFIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Breeding season records: The Rumps/Moules: noted May 17th-July 2nd with maximum of eight June 5th, and ten June 23rd. Long and Short Islands: 30+ May 20th. At Long Island only a few were noted June 12th, and at Short Island five were at nest holes the same date. There was a report of 30 pairs in June in the " area". It is uncertain whether this referred to the Lye Rock colony, that held no birds last year, or possibly the Long and Short Island birds. There were no corroboratory reports, so the exact location of this now rather large number must remain in some doubt. It would be of great assistance if observers, especially those who do not know the region too well, could give map references for colonies rather than naming the nearest village, which is usually rather ambiguous and has led to much confusion in the past. Migrants noted as follows: Porthgwarra: one west Jan. 29th, three west April 1st, one April 3rd, and then a massive 130 west April 4th, 18 west April 9th and singles on 18th, 21st and 22nd May. Five were on the sea June 4th. Botallack Head: one west Sept. 10th. Pendeen Watch: one west Sept. 17th. St. Ives: one in winter plumage Oct. 16th. AUK Sp. Porthgwarra: 5000+ west March 12th, in one hour (0800-0900) mostly razorbills VRT. St. Ives: 1000+ west Oct. 16th mostly razorbills. Trevose Head: 120 per hour west Oct. 23rd, 2000+ per hour west Oct. 24th, 100 per hour west Oct. 26th.

FERAL ROCK DOVE — Breeds. Resident. Lizard Peninsula: very scarce as a breeding bird, probably less than ten pairs around the coast PMc. Trevose Head: up to 70 throughout the year, but 80 on Oct. 27th.

STOCK DOVE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Few confirmed breeding records but breeding or probable breeding at (4/5 pairs), Lower Tamar Lake, near , Trelissick, Ladock, Bude and The Lizard where SB found the area good for the species, and also found them in one or two quarries in the area. Very few early in the year, in fact SCM noted none in SE Cornwall in Jan. and Feb. and wondered if our breeding birds move out in winter to be replaced by winter visitors from further north, but being mild maybe these birds did not need to travel so far south. Birds reappeared from mid-March. In autumn good numbers were noted in the Woodpigeon influx Oct. 22nd/23rd, but few in Nov./Dec. Maximum numbers: , Lizard: 60/80 in a flock Oct. 22nd. Rame Head: 33 on stubble Oct. 23rd. Rospeath: over 300 Oct. 22nd flying south in flocks of up to 40 and over 250 Oct. 23rd flying south in flocks of up to 50 BP. Skewjack: 40 Oct. 29th and Nov. 5th. Castle an Dinas, St. Columb: 50 Dec. 4th. Millbrook: 35 on stubble Dec. 17th.

63 WOODPIGEON — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Few records, although noted to be common and widespread in several areas and no change in status noted. Large numbers noted on The Lizard and at Porthgwarra Oct. 22nd-23rd. Maximum numbers: Retyn: c.100 March 8th. Church Cove, Lizard: 80+ Oct. 22nd. Mullion: 300+ flew SE Oct. 23rd with Jackdaws at 0800. Porthgwarra: 2000+ with Stock Doves moving through Oct. 23rd BKM. COLLARED DOVE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. No noticeable change in status. Reported as common in several areas. No large autumn flocks this year. Maximum numbers: . Penzance: 45 March 4th. Philleigh: the flock still 60 at the end of the year despite being 'thinned out' by the local farmer. Possible migrants: Nr. Bude: one April 30th. Camel Est.: eleven flew west May 17th. Porthgwarra: one on cliff June 1st. : 20 on Oct. 22nd were presumed migrants. Note this was the date of large woodpigeon influx. Skewjack: a very interesting set of records again — April: four 9th, five 21st, 13 28th, 38 30th. May: three 2nd, eight 7th, 18 15th, 48 18th-27th. June: 20 4th, four 12th, one 25th, also one Aug. 21st and one Sept. 18th.

TURTLE DOVE — Occasionally breeds. Passage migrant. Noted from 19 areas in the spring. The first was one April 29th at Skewjack. Numbers were unexceptional and the maximum was eight at St. Buryan May 7th. Skewjack was the only site to record regular passage from April 29th-June 11th with a maximum of five on April 30th and May 27th. Autumn passage was more widespread, and noted June 18th-Oct. 6th at 20 areas scattered widely throughout the county. Numbers were again low with four at Skewjack June 18th and Porthgwarra Sept. 24th being the maximum. A late bird was at Tregaseal, St. Just Oct. 22nd, the date of the woodpigeon influx. On Oct. 30th one was feeding at a bird table at Hellesveor, St. Ives, with collared doves JB & SB.

CUCKOO — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. The first for the spring was one at Blackrock March 28th, but the general arrival was April 19th-30th. FHCK & IK noted a better year in the Bude area, but SMC at St. Columb, BP at Marazion and JSG at Loe Pool/Porthleven all considered the species very scarce. The last was one at Porthgwarra Sept. 10th. Brown phase birds were noted at: Rinsey Head: many sightings in May. Landulph: one May 25th. Lizard: one June 19th.

BARN OWL — Breeds. Resident. Noted in 79 areas with 19 pairs proved breeding. FHC & IK noted that farmers in the Bude area had had Barn Owls on their farms a few years ago, but not recently. TJD confirmed a similar picture in the same general area.

64 SB noted a poor year in The Lizard area. Two out of last year's four pairs did not breed. The remaining two pairs were successful, one having two broods. Nine young in all were reared. Breeding was proved at six sites and strongly suspected at two others in the St. Columb — St. Eval — St. Wenn — area. Two 1981 sites were not used this year. From the six nests a total of 17 young were reared SMC. Birds were located throughout most of the county, although there did appear to be good and bad areas. The well populated areas appeared to be especially SMC's area mentioned above extending to Padstow in the east and Newquay in the west, plus the St. Just-in-, and the area of east Cornwall stretching from the west as far as Seaton and Menheniott. Poorly populated areas were the north coast from Port Isaac Bay to the County border, with only one record from Skewjack, and again the large area bordered by the west bank of the Fal, south along the eastern side of The Lizard, then west to Helston and Camborne and north back up the coast to the St. Agnes area. It must be admitted however that these divisions may be more apparent than real, and may to some extent show an absence of birdwatchers rather than an absence of birds. Landulph: On June 6th, one bird hunting over the marsh when I arrived at 0740, and in the next two hours it caught eleven small mammals. Eight it took back to the breeding barn at Landulph Farm, and three it took into the trees surrounding the marsh and presumably consumed them. JMR. Gillhouse Farm, nr. Dozmary Pool: On Dec. 26th, a hunting bird attacked by a kestrel and robbed of its prey, probably a mouse. RS. MPF.

LITTLE OWL — Breeds. Scarce resident. Confirmed breeding at Tregonning Hill (two pairs, one successful with two young) and Blackrock (two or three young). Possible breeding at St. Stephen-in-Brannel with a pair present throughout the sumer and at Marhamchurch with one calling over a lengthy period May 16th-July 2nd. SB found the species more common than expected with birds at The Lizard, Helston, Breage and Germoe. Other records, all singles. The many records at the end of Oct. are interesting, especially in view of the migrant Long-eared Owls, Hen Harriers and Merlins that appeared at this time. Skewjack: Jan. 2nd. : Jan. 19th. : March 12th. Downderry: May 21st. St. Endellion: May 26th and 29th. Cross: May 31st. Salters Creek, Tamar Est.: Aug. 9th. Stithians: Oct. 23rd. Nr. Bude: Oct. 23rd and Nov. 26th. Gwinear: Oct. 23rd. Crowan: Oct. 23rd. Trewey Common: Oct. 25th. Trevose Head: Oct. 27th. Nr. Grade Ruan, The Lizard: Oct. 27th. Rame: one frequently in Oct. and to Nov. 13th. Watergate Bay: Nov. 18th. : Nov. 19th. Upper Fowey Valley: Dec. 3rd. : One in Dec. at Sconner Farm. RAF Portreath: odd birds seen throughout the year mainly at Sally's Bottom (!?)

65 TAWNY OWL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Few reports but no change in status noted. Confirmed breeding at nine sties, but possible at several more. Drift: while out for a run Nov. 10th, a Tawny Owl flew in front of me for approximately 200 yds. at a height from the road of between three and five feet. A new type of pacemaker! RT. : One was a regular night time visitor to my bedroom window throughout the year, making a tremendous noise as it perched inside the vertically hinged upper window. Once it came right inside the bathroom when being mobbed by the early morning blackbirds, and was most reluctant to leave PRTC. Calling in daylight noted at Gweek in Feb. and at Penrose in March and May. LONG-EARED OWL — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Nr. St. Just: one Oct. 22nd RB. TP. SP. Porthgwarra: one Oct. 29th HPKR. The first since 1980.

SHORT-EARED OWL — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in mid-Cornwall. Single birds seen at a site throughout the summer, and a very fluffy individual seen in late summer. Good numbers in Jan. with up to 17 birds in the county. Most sightings were of singles over moorland habitat, but one or two were at Marazion Marsh Jan. 11th- 26th, one at Stithians Res. Jan. 17th-29th, and one at Upper Tamar Res. Jan. 15th. Five were hunting at Dozmary Pool on Jan. 9th. One was at Dozmary Pool Feb. 12th, and one at Godolphin Hill during the month, but the only other Feb. record was of a bird at St. Tudy on the 16th. March saw the start of the spring passage with birds being seen over atypical habitat as the one over farmland at on March 9th. Stithians had one or two regularly March 26th-May 3rd, but most of the other nine sites had only single day sightings. The passage birds were not as restricted to moorland as the wintering individuals, and they turned up at several locations, mainly coastal, wherever there was a sufficiently large area of rough ground. The last was a bird at Pentire Pt. on May 17th. Autumn passage began with one at Godrevy Head on Sept. 28th. One was at Porthgwarra Sept. 30th and one at Stithians Oct. 5th, but there was no general influx and numbers remained very low. There was a scattering of records Oct. 29th- Nov. 11th, when singles were noted at Landulph Marsh, Near Bude, Upper Tamar Res., Coswarth, and Stithians, but four at Porthgwarra Nov. 11th was the only multiple occurrence. In late Nov./Dec. the species was almost absent with only one at St. Eval Nov. 26th, one at Tregonetha Downs Nov. 27th, and a bird at Gillhouse Downs Dec. 17th. NIGHTJAR — Breeds. Scarce summer resident and occasional passage migrant. Noted at three breeding sites with perhaps four pairs involved. No passage birds again.

SWIFT — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Some observers thought the species scarcer this year, although FHCK & IK found them common around Bude, BGE noted a better year in the Torpoint area, and PMcC found the best numbers around Falmouth since 1979. The first for spring was one at The Lizard April 11th. There was then a few records at the end of April, but the main passage was not until early to mid-May. Numbers generally were not large and 400+ over Millbrook May 7th was exceptional.

66 Regular passage was noted at Skewjack where 30/60 were present May 2nd-June 5th. In autumn, passage was only noted regularly at Skewjack where 200 were present June 18th, 150 June 25th then much smaller numbers until Aug. 27th. The only other large gathering in autumn was 100 at Upper Tamar Res. Aug. 1st. In Sept. the only records were one at St. Ives Sept. 2nd, and 20 at Antony the same date. Navax Pt.: an apparent breeding colony in the cliff June 18th E. Grace. KINGFISHER — Breeds. Scarce summer resident. Winter visitor. Confirmed breeding only at Gweek, but possible also at Bude and Lower Tamar Lake. Present during the breeding season also at Respryn Bridge, Dingleton, Luckett, Loe Pool, Ince, R. Allen nr. Truro, and Creek. As usual there was an increase in autumn records with birds on most reservoirs, many smaller pools, and several estuaries. They also occurred on the coast, where birds were seen as follows:— Bude: one Sept. 17th flying over the Efford Down Hotel towards the coast. West : one Oct. 2nd. Holywell Bay: one on the beach Oct. 10th. Portscatho: one on rocky beach Nov. 25th. Upper Fowey Valley: one dead female impaled on barbed wire Nov. 20th. One barb piercing throat but no other injuries apparent MPF.

HOOPOE — Scarce passage migrant. A good spring, despite some probable duplication, but only one autumn record. Nr. Praa Sands: one March 6th Mrs. D. Crompton per E. Grace. St. Just: one March 6th-9th Mr. Leggo per E. Grace. Mousehole/: one March 14th RGJ. Mousehole: one March 18th and 19th per BK, one April 2nd HJH. Lamorna Cove: one March 30th MPS. Porthgwarra: one April 3rd VRT. RA. PH. Marazion Marsh: one April 9th DJB. GR & MW. LPW. PRW. Wheal Rodney, Marazion: one April 11th BP. Present at the caravan site from 1100 to dusk. It was frightened away about five times by cars, humans, cats and dogs but still came back from the surrounding brocolli fields to the same patch of rough grass between the caravans. In the evening at one point it crouched in the road gutter, stretched out one wing and sunned itself for about five minutes. Pendeen Watch: one April 17th on grass by lighthouse, later flew off north east PTS. Skewjack: one April 21st seen to fly in from the Porthcurno direction JH, and probably the same bird April 24th HPKR. Messack, St. Just-in-Roseland: one April 30th-May 1st LSP. EMP. Kennack Sands: one May 1st RBr. Trewithen Gardens, Probus: one May 4th-6th PJD. Goonhilly Downs: one May 7th NBE. Tremayne, St. Columb: one May 11th SMC. BTSC. EMC. LW et al. The bird apparently present May 8th-18th per Mr. P. Mann. Bal Leswithen Cottage, St. Just: one May 19th Mr. P. Watters per E. Grace. St. Levan: one Oct. 23rd CSB. BR. RW. CW. WRYNECK — Scarce passage migrant. An unremarkable year. Bar Meadows, Malpas: one in a garden May 17th Mr. Willis per RDP. Cawsand: one feeding on ants in garden Sept. 23rd/24th LWT.

67 Nr. St. Just: one Oct. 5th DSF. Cremyll: one Nov. 19th NJC. A very late date.

GREEN WOODPECKER — Breeds. Resident. No change in status noted, although SMC did think them scarcer this year, and BP considers that the species has declined recently in the Marazion area. Few records of confirmed breeding, but appears fairly common in suitable habitat throughout the county. St. Germans: a juvenile feeding on ants at the edge of the garden patio July 17th, later seen in the bird bath with an adult BLW.

GREAT-SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Noted to be fairly scarce in the Bude area FHCK. IK. and still uncommon around Trelissick after recent tree felling JD. Breeding noted at only five sites but must be substantially under recorded, as appeared regular in suitable habitat in most parts of the county. Six were noted drumming at Fir Hill Wood, Colan on March 9th. Probable migrants were noted at Sennen Sept. 26th and Skewjack Oct. 17th. LESSER-SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Breeds. Scarce resident. A poor year, no confirmed breeding, few records, and yet two sightings in the far west where the species is extremely local. Treva Croft Wood, Nr. : one March 28th PRW. Coronation Park, Wadebridge: a male April 3rd WD. TR. Woods: one drumming and calling April 10th RS. Dunmere Woods: a male drumming April 12th & 13th GJC. Buryas Bridge, nr. Penzance: one on a peanut tit-feeder June 9th L & HMO.

WOODLARK — Breeds. Scarce resident and passage migrant. A welcome increase in records, albeit autumn ones, and the first confirmed breeding since 1968 when a pair bred at Treveneage nr. St. Hilary. Nr. St. John: one March 13th MDR. St. Germans: a pair located April 9th, seen feeding three fledged young in late May, and collecting food for a second brood in early July SCM. : Area A — less obvious than in 1982, two April 23rd, one April 26th-30th a single bird rising and falling from mine spoil on May 1st. A possible nest site PSC. Area B — one singing from wires over bulb field April 3rd RS, another singing from a nearby territory April 12th RS, and both birds singing April 16th EG. Birds also singing here May 21st and June 30th RS. SMC. Newlyn East Downs: one Oct. 23rd AHJH. Penzance Heliport: one Oct. 28th DSF. Marazion Marsh: one Oct. 29th DSF. BP. PS. MPS. PRW. Probably the Heliport bird. Rosevidney: one Nov. 9th LPW. Skewjack: two Nov. 11th HPKR. Godrevy Pt.: one feeding on short sward in Nov. 11th, flew off east DSF. Reskajeage Downs: one Nov. 15th, flew east calling DSF. SKYLARK — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Generally common and widespread. No large flocks in the first winter period. The only reasonable numbers were 200 at Penlee Pt. Jan. 8th and 150 at Sandymouth Jan. 19th. Much more widespread in autumn and the second winter period.

68 Maximum numbers: Skewjack: noted Sept. 24th-Dec. 17th, with maximum 120 Oct. 29th. Trevose Head: passage birds noted Oct. 2nd-Dec. 1st. Numbers built up during Oct. to 250 on the 29th, and then 340 on Nov. 4th. About 200/300 then present regularly until late Nov. Exceptional passage was noted on Nov. 14th when 1000+ were present. 400 were noted on Dec. 1st. Rame Head: hundreds present Oct. 23rd, many feeding on stubbles while others passed overhead, very high, in off the sea, 300 Nov. 11th. Pentire Pt.: c.200 Oct. 29th. Penlee Pt.: 300 Nov. 8th, up to 200 in Dec. Up to 100 in Oct. at Godrevy Pt., Porthjoke and West Pentire.

SAND MARTIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. The first for spring were two at Porth Res. March 8th. There were records in mid to late March from Marazion Marsh, Hayle, Par, , Bude, Upper Tamar Lake, and Sheviock, but the main passage was from mid-April. Numbers were not great and indeed, SMC and FHCK. IK. remarked on the small numbers with no marked passage. At Skewjack migants were noted April 1st-June 16th but numbers were low usually around 20/35 with 55 on April 8th being the maximum. Breeding records: Praa Sands: less birds than in 1982, with twelve pairs at most. Most birds laying eggs in June, with the last young being fed in mid-Aug. Most had two broods. SB. Germoe: a small colony in sand dunes near farm buildings. The area was not fully explored but at least four pairs bred. On the evening of May 5th 40+ birds were flying around the area SB. Nr. Loe Pool: one pair nested. : about 20 pairs excavating holes in low cliff May 21st, 21 holes in use June 28th. Treskilling: approximately 60 pairs bred. Maidenwell: a breeding colony of about 20 in a disused clay pit. Widemouth Bay: 20/25 pairs bred. Can worthy Water: several pairs visiting river bank June 26th. None were noted at Perranuthnoe and the Marhamchurch colony was not checked. There were no large numbers in autumn, and stragglers were noted at several localities up until the first week of Oct. Especially late were one at Trevose Head Oct. 22nd, and one feeding over Penlee Park, Penzance on Nov. 24th DSF. SWALLOW — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. The first was one at Marazion Marsh March 15th. Birds were present at Penzance, and Hayle in late March, but the main arrival was not until mid to late April and even early May in some areas. Passage noted at Skewjack with one April 1st then nothing until 40 on April 16th, and after this a regular migration of 40/60 per day until early June. The maximum was 85 on May 14th. 250 were at Tamar Lakes May 20th, and other large numbers included 200 at Porthgwarra May 19th, 150 north at Bude April 16th and 100 at Bude Marshes April 13th. There was a general feeling that the species was scarce in the breeding season. Autumn roosts: Marazion Marsh: roost very poor this year with a maximum of only 120 on Aug. 11th BP. Par: roost considerably smaller than in recent years. 750 on Aug. 20th increased to 900 on Aug. 23rd, but thereafter numbers decreased SMC. Bude Marshes: 1500 roosting Aug. 24th. 250 flying high at Rospeath Sept. 29th was the only large number for the autumn away from the roosts. There were several sightings during late Oct. and early Nov. with birds being present

69 until late Nov. at Skewjack, Newlyn, Gwithian, Kynance Cove, Mullion, and Marazion Marsh, with up to three around Penzance until Dec. 5th. , Sennen: a pair built their nest inside a shed. It was a House Martin or Continental style nest with no support, but plastered against a sheer wall. Other normal nests built among the rafters. Two broods raised from the unusual nest VRT.

RED-RUMPED SWALLOW — Rare vagrant. Nanjizal: one Oct. 29th LPW. The eight County mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

HOUSE MARTIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. The first in spring was a bird at Tamar Lakes March 11th. Two were at Par March 13th but there were no birds then until one at Skewjack April 1st, followed by the general arrival in mid-April. Numbers were low with 85 at Skewjack June 4th, being the largest gathering. Unlike Swallow, breeding numbers seemed up to normal levels. Bossiney: there were certainly two pairs breeding in the cliff-nesting colony at July 3rd TJD. St. Germans: a pair still feeding young in nest Sept. 29th. Several large gatherings were seen in the autumn: : 200+ in thick mist at 1900 hrs. Aug. 13th. Rame Barton Farm: 200+ on a foggy morning Aug. 14th, sitting on wires, 90% of them young birds. Most were gone an hour later when the fog cleared. Camel Est.: 100+ Aug. 28th, 300+ Sept. 14th. Porth Res.: 250+ Sept. 9th, 300+ Sept. 14th. Upper Tamar Res.: 300 on Sept. 4th and 11th. Drift Res.: 250 Sept. 11th. Birds were present at several sites in early Nov. with one at Looe Nov. 22nd and one at Penzance Nov. 24th being the last. Lower Tamar Lake: a partial albino Sept. 11th. The outermost visible primary of the left wing and the second and fourth visible primaries of the right wing were white. There was also a white line above both eyes FHCK & IK. RICHARDS PIPIT — Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Marazion: 1 Sept. 24th AHJH. Trevose Head: Immature Oct. 27th SMC. LW. Reskajeage Downs: 2 Nov. 5th DSF.

TAWNY PIPIT — Very rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). All the following relate to singles. Porthgwarra: April 19th MPS and Sept. 24th DSF. HPKR. Nr. Mullion: May 7th EGe. SP; Sept. 24th EG. Nr. Sennen: July 24th DSF. NAGL. St. Just Airfield: Sept. 28th DSF. VRT et al. Rame Head: Sept. 28th RS. Golf Course: Sept. 28th SCM. Lands End: Sept. 28th VRT. Treveal: Sept. 28th DSF et al. Godrevy: Adult Oct. 25th AFJC. Two in spring is unique. The Sennen record in July is unprecedented and the good numbers in late September occurred at the same time as a heavy passage of Meadow Pipits.

70 TREE PIPIT — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. The series of low numbers in spring continues. Very few breeding records received and a poor autumn passage with most moving through between August 21st to 31st and September 6th to 11th. First in spring was one at Crowdy Res. March 30th followed by one at Egloshayle on April 13th. The only other spring reports received related to 2 at Porthgwarra April 15th and one May 14th. 2 at Skewjack April 30th with singles May 1st and 18th, and one at Penlee April 17th. Breeding season records were received from Bearah Tor, Retyn, Redmoor, Halvana, (a new site? SCH), Luckett, Crowdy Res., Upper Fowey Valley (4 pairs), Blacktor Downs, Seaton, (2 pairs), Retallack (2 pairs), St. Cleer Downs, St. Newlyn East and Ladock Wood (2+ pairs). Autumn passage was noted at 23 localities involving approximately 85 birds. Passage apparently commenced with one at Davidstow on Aug. 11th and ended with singles at Porthgwarra and West Pentire on Sept. 24th. Very few were reported with the maximum being: Nr. Kynance: 6 Aug. 27th. Marazion: 6 Aug. 27th. Skewjack: 9 Aug. 29th. Nr. St. Columb: 7 Sept. 7th.

MEADOW PIPIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Spring passage was noted from March 13th to May 8th but numbers were very low with a maximum of 23 near Bude on March 28th. Very few breeding season records received. In autumn, migration was apparent between Aug. 28th and Dec. 4th. Most were noted Sept. 25th to Oct. 2nd, Oct. 7th to 9th and 13th to 29th. Maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: 80+ Sept. 27th; 150+ Oct. 8th. Rame Head: 250 Sept. 28th; 100 Oct. 13th. : 140 Sept. 28th. Lands End: 100's coasting early in the morning Sept. 29th. Trevose Head: 180 Oct. 2nd; 470 Oct. 21st; 320 Oct. 29th. Kenidjack: 150+ Oct. 7th. Nr. St. Just: 220 Oct. 9th. RED THROATED PIPIT — Very rare vagrant. Skewjack: 1 (in summer plumage) April 23rd HPKR. The first record for mainland Cornwall. Spring records in the UK are unusual and although this species has long been a candidate for the County list it was expected to occur in autumn. Accepted by BBRC.

ROCK PIPIT — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant. As always very few records received. No migrants reported and hardly any breeding season records. However, there were two interesting reports: Wacker, River Lynher: 15 roosting in saltmarsh Nov. 20th SCM. St. Mawes: A leucistic bird Nov. 4th EMP. LSP.

WATER PIPIT (A.a. spinoletta) — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. A sub-species from the mountain regions of Southern and Central Europe. Marazion Marsh: 2 Jan. 10th SMC. BTSC; 1 Oct. 21st DSF; 2 Nov. 17th DSF. GCH. Landulph Marsh: 1 Feb. 23rd to 26th RMB et al.; 1 Oct. 29th to 31st HT. RS; 1 Dec. 2nd RMB.

71 Lostwithiel: 1 Jan. 20th to Feb. 7th SMC. BTSC. Hayle Est.: 1 Feb. 14th PRW. Porthleven: 1 Feb. 24th JSC Skewjack: 1 Oct. 30th HPKR.

YELLOW WAGTAIL — Passage migrant. Last bred in 1965. In spring, slightly more than 1982, with most moving through the County April 28th-30th and May 14th-21st. First was one at Marazion, April 15th followed by one at Copperhouse on the 17th. At Marazion the spring passage was noted until May 21st, with the maximum being 8 on April 28th and May 21st. Elsewhere, there were birds at Par Beach (April 25th and May 2nd), Crowdy Res. (April 30th), near Bude (April 30th), Millbrook (May 5th to 7th), near Sennen (1 May 6th and 3 May 18th), Maer Lake (May 14th) and Drift Res. (3 May 18th). Autumn passage was more widespread and protracted, but numbers were very low. The majority passed through August 20th to 31st, Sept. 4th to 6th, 23rd to 28th and Oct. 2nd to 11th. The Par Beach Pool roost was very small this autumn. Passage commenced with one at Stithians on Aug. 4th and ended with 7 near Sennen Oct. 29th. There were reports from 35 localities involving approx. 175 birds, with the maximum being: Near St. Just: 15 Aug. 26th. Downderry: 12 Aug. 26th. Loe Bar: 31 Aug. 27th. Par Beach: 18+ Aug. 28th. Crafthole: 14 Aug. 30th. Porthleven: 26 Oct. 11th. BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL (M.f. flava) — Uncommon passage migrant. A sub-species from central Europe, although a few pairs breed in this country. Marazion: Male April 16th to 19th MPS. PRW. and a female April 19th GCH. Skewjack: 1 April 30th; 5 May 5th; 1 May 13th HPKR. Carnsew Pool: Female April 30th GCH. Drift Res.: 1 May 6th HPKR. Par: 2 trapped and ringed Aug. 26th SMC. EMC. BTSC. SYKE'S WAGTAIL (M.f. beema) — Very rare vagrant. A sub-species from South East Russia. Marazion Marsh: Male showing characteristics of this race April 29th to May 3rd JH. GCH. LPW. MPS. Now recorded in consecutive years, this is the sixth County mainland record. ASHY-HEADED WAGTAIL (M.f. cinereocapilla) — Rare vagrant. A sub-species from the central Mediterranean. Marazion Marsh: Male showing characteristics of this race April 28th MPS. This is the 10th County mainland record, the last being in 1980.

GREY WAGTAIL — Breeds. Resident. Uncommon passage migrant. Very few records received for the first half of the year, but at Skewjack singles on March 5th and 12th and 2 April 2nd were possibly migrants. Little information received on breeding birds in west Cornwall. In the remainder of the County the species appears to be maintaining a healthy population.

72 Autumn passage commenced with 2 at Drift Aug. 22nd, with the majority moving' through Sept. 10th to 18th and a smaller but noticeable passage, Oct. 3rd to 17th. Maximum numbers: Drift Res.: 17 Sept. 10th; 20 Sept. 11th; 25 Sept. 12th. Polbathic: 11 Sept. 15th. Porthgwarra: 17 Sept. 18th. PIED/WHITE WAGTAIL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Little information received relating to breeding, although PAR recorded breeding at his Angarrack study area for the first time. Few migrants reported in spring and low numbers in autumn. Maximum numbers: Coronation Park, Helston: 100 Jan. 2nd; 50+ Dec. 6th. Reed Bed: 100 Jan. 1st; 120+ Aug. 14th. St. John: 150 Feb. 26th. St. Andrews Pool: 300+ Dec. 28th DLT. In Spring "Whites" were extremely scarce, with reports from only nine localities, involving only 30 to 35 birds. The first were 3 at Marazion on March 18th and the last were 2 at the same locality on May 10th. In autumn, noted at nine localities from Aug. 10th to Oct. 8th, again in very low numbers, with the exception of 100 at Marazion on Sept. 23rd and 24th. DIPPER — Breeds. Scarce resident (mainly East Cornwall). Coverage during the breeding season was much more complete than for several years. FMC located eight nests (2 of which were predated, probably by Mink) in the mid- Cornwall area. Breeding was also proved at two sites in the Camelford area. Elsewhere birds were recorded during the breeding season at Looe (2 sites), Polperro, (2 sites), Bude (3 sites), , Wadebridge, , St. Columb (2 sites — the first in the area for many years), and Truro (2 sites). Outside of the breeding season there were records from a further site at Bude, Lostwithiel, and unusual were singles at Drift Res. Sept. 17th and from Oct. 17th to 1984. Despite this apparent increase, RDP has commented that the species is not as regular as four or five years ago in the Truro area. Unusual reports were received as follows: : 1 dead on road Sept. 23rd SCM. Smallacombe Plantation: 1 flying at a height of about 300 feet on Nov. 13th. On reaching the it went into a steep dive and presumbably alighted on or beside the river. JAd'EM. WREN — Breeds. Very common resident. No reports of any change in status. PAR recorded 24 + pairs at Angarrack during the breeding season and BP thought that the species had a good breeding season at Long Rock Reed Bed. DUNNOCK — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant. Common and widespread throughout the County. 12 pairs were noted at RAF Portreath and 3 or 4 pairs at Angarrack during the breeding season RLM. PAR. 40 at Kenidjack Oct. 19th, probably included some migrants. ROBIN — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant. It is obvious from the many comments received that there was no decline in the breeding population during 1983 and the species remains abundant.

73 Probable migrants: Nr. St. Just Airfield: 20 Sept. 13th. Porthgwarra: 25 Sept. 27th. Nr. St. Just: 15+ Sept. 28th. The Lizard: Several very bright birds Oct. 20th.

BLACK REDSTART — Passage migrant. Uncommon winter visitor. Not unexpectedly, after the tremendous influx in autumn 1982, good numbers remained to winter. There was a substantial spring movement, the fore-runners arriving with the first Wheatears and Chiffchaffs. 80% of spring birds passed through between March 3rd and 14th. Autumn passage was in direct contrast to 1982. Low numbers were reported from 28 localities, with the first arrivals occurring between Oct. 22nd and 30th. There was a lesser movement Nov. 3rd to 6th and another 14th to 28th. The species was very scarce in the second winter period. During January and February there were singles at 19 localities with 2 at each of Marazion, Downderry, Hannafore, Seaton, Saltash, Bude, RAF St. Mawgan, Falmouth, Truro, Gerrans, Percuil, Trendain, and Kynance. There were 3 at Polridmouth on Feb. 12th and 12+ at RAF Portreath during Jan. In spring there were reports from 26 localities, involving a total of about 45 birds. There were singles at 17 sites, 2 each at RAF Portreath, Soapy Cove, Gerrans and Millendreath, 3 at each of Marazion, Rame Head, Rinsey and Croft Pare, The Lizard. At Porthgwarra there were 2 March 12th, but 7, including 4 males, on March 13th. Last in spring was a male at Pentire April 27th. In autumn there were reports from 28 localities, involving 45 to 50 birds, with the most by far occurring at Kynance, where there were 5 Oct. 30th and 3 Nov. 6th. In the second winter period there were reports from 15 localities involving about 19 birds. There were singles at 11 sites, with 2 each at Kynance, Soapy Cove, Marazion and near Bude.

REDSTART — Breeds in low numbers. Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant. Hearsay information suggests that this species breeds in much greater numbers than ever reported. Spring passage was again poor and apart from a reasonable movement between September 28th and October 2nd, very few were noted in autumn. During April there were singles at Ladock, Trevose Head (16th) and Bearah Tor (24th). The only other spring migrant was a female at Gribbin Head on May 14th. Pairs bred at Cheesering, Colliford, and Bearah Tor and also possibly at Treswallock and Buttern Hill. Autumn passage commenced with one at Scadghill August 6th. Antony: 1 Aug. 14th. Nr. Bude: Singles Aug. 21st and Oct. 2nd. Rame Head: Singles Aug. 29th and Sept. 28th. Porthcurno: Singles Aug. 31st and Sept. 6th. : Sept. 8th to Sept. 11th. Crowdy: 1 Sept. 13th. Gwithian: 1 Sept. 25th. Nr. St. Just: 1 Sept. 28th to 30th. Treveal: 2 Sept. 29th. Coswarth: 1 Sept. 30th and Oct. 4th. Porth Res.: 1 Sept. 30th. Porthgwarra: 1 Sept. 30th; 2 Oct. 1st; 3 Oct. 2nd; 1 Oct. 5th. Rosemullion Head: 2 Sept. 30th. St. Eval: 2 Oct. 1st. Trevose Head: 1 Oct. 2nd.

74 Nr. St. Just Airfield: 1 Oct. 2nd. Mullion: 1 Oct. 25th.

WHINCHAT — Breeds. Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant. Grossly under recorded during the breeding season, but there has been a definite decrease in breeding numbers on Bodmin Moor. This decline appears to be directly attributable to drainage and land reclamation in the preferred breeding sites. Spring migrants were scarce as usual with first being a female in off the sea at Rame Head on March 19th. In April there were singles at Camel Est. (23rd), Tregoning Hill (24th), Crugmeer (27th), and Rame Head (30th). During May there were singles at Marazion (1st and 18th), Rame Head (2nd), Gwithian (7th), Nr. Kynance (15th), Drift (18th), with 2 at Stithians on the 3rd. During the breeding season reported only at Temple, De Lank (2 pairs), Upper Fowey Valley (2 pairs), North Bowda and Coombe Valley nr. Bude. In autumn there was a light widespread passage commencing with singles at Crafthole and on Aug. 20th and ending with singles at Kenidjack and near St. Just Oct. 23rd. Probably less than 120 birds were involved and the majority passed through Aug. 27th to 29th, Sept. 24th to 25th and Oct. 2nd. Maximum numbers: Rame Head: 7 Aug. 29th. Nr. St. Just: 7 Sept. 21st. Siblyback Res.: 6 Sept. 25th. Gwithian: 7 Oct. 1st. STONECHAT — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant. Reported widely in the coastal areas throughout the year, with the maximum being 8 pairs at RAF Portreath. Seems less common on inland breeding sites. At Bude FHCK and IK report a successful breeding season with many young seen, but at St. Germans BLW noted less than in previous years. Some observers are a little sceptical of reports of migrants in the County, but certainly max. numbers this year coincided with the main movement of other 'Chats' in the autumn. Maximum numbers: Sennen: 12 Aug. 29th. Nr. St. Just: 13 Sept. 24th. Godrevy: 12 Sept. 28th. : 12 Sept. 30th.

WHEATEAR — Breeds. Summer resident. Spring arrivals were sporadic. The first birds arrived on March 5th, all singles, at Loe Bar, St. Eval, Bude and Hayle. There was a small influx on March 9th, followed by others on the 13th and 15th. Very few were noted between March 16th and the next small fall on April 1st. The largest single-day count of the spring occurred on April 3rd when a total of 44 were seen in various parts of the County. After April 4th, when 33 were reported, there was a dearth of records until May 1st and 2nd when there was another small influx. The last small arrival occurred on May 8th. Maximum numbers at this time were: Nr. Bude: 75 + passed through between March 13th and April 4th with a max. of 23 on April 3rd. Godrevy: 13 March 15th. Porthgwarra: 20+ April 3rd. Davidstow Airfield: 10 April 12th. Trevose Head: 20 May 2nd. Foxhole: 12 May 8th. Breeding season records from 13 areas on Bodmin Moor involving 105 + pairs with

75 greatest concentration being in the Buttern Hill-Middle Candra area (65 pairs). In addition at least one pair bred on The Lizard and a pair may have bred near Bude. Autumn migration was very light and protracted, commencing Aug. 1st (1 at Bude) and ending on the very late date Dec. 4th (1 at Kynance). Only between September 29th when 31 birds were reported and October 2nd when 39 were reported did any significant numbers move through the County. Autumn maximum: Nr. Bude: 40 birds passed through between Aug. 10th and Nov. 3rd with a maximum of 14 Oct. 2nd. Davidstow Airfield: 10 Aug. 11th. Nr. Kynance: 21 Sept. 1st. Lands End: 25 Sept. 29th. West Pentire: 18 Oct. 2nd. Unusual was an albinistic bird at Crowdy on Aug. 9th. It was basically pure white, but had a faint dark line through the eye, buff chin, and a faint blue line on the mantle and dark tail edgings FHCK. IK. GPS.

GREENLAND WHEATEAR (O.o. leucorrhoa) — Scarce passage migrant. Birds showing characteristics of this race were reported as follows: Loe Bar: Male March 6th JSG. The Lizard: 3 (2 males) May 15th; female May 29th; 2 (1 male) Sept. 21st EGe. Rame Head: Male Sept. 24th RWG. Lands End: 1 Sept. 24th VRT. Trevose Head: Male Oct. 2nd SMC. EMC. Porthallow: Female Oct. 9th JSG.

RING OUZEL — Scarce passage migrant. Has bred. Breeding was last reported in 1970 and although pairs frequently turn up in suitable habitat, they apparently move on quite quickly. However, it should be remembered that the species is very shy and retiring during the breeding season. Green: female April 15th EGe. Rinsey Head: male April 21st SB. Bearah Tor: a pair April 24th RS. Rame Head: male April 30th VRT; male Nov. 4th SCM; female or immature Nov. 5th HT. Treveal: 1 Sept. 29th VRT. Nr. St. Just: male Nov. 11th DSF.

BLACKBIRD — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. An abundant breeding species throughout the County with high breeding densities at Angarrack (8 to 10 pairs) and in WD's garden at Egloshayle where 4 pairs bred — each raising single broods of 3 young and 1 pair raising a second brood of 4 young. Despite this PV considered breeding success poor, possibly due to the dry weather. There was no evidence of a spring movement but in autumn there were heavy passages on Oct. 22nd (90 at Trevose and 200 at Blackrock), Oct. 23rd (influx at Colan), Nov. 10th (140 at Trevose), Nov. 14th (100 at Trevose and exceptional numbers at Degibna). Pied birds were noted at St. John (Feb. 19th), Tresillian (Feb. 23rd), Hayle (May 2nd), Mullion (Oct. 31st) and St. Germans. Interesting was one at Mullion on June 13th trying to eat a Slow Worm which was five to seven inches long NBE.

76

ICTERINE WARBLER — Nr. Bude, A ug. 1983 G. P. Sutton DUSKY THRUSH — Very rare vagrant. Nr. Bude: adult male Nov. 13th GPS. FHCK. The first record for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Accepted by BBRC.

FIELDFARE — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. With very mild weather in the first winter period numbers were predictably low, with only four flocks of 100 or more, all in mid-Cornwall. These were 100 at Tregonetha on Jan. 1st, 120 at St. Eval on Jan. 2nd and 100 at each of Coswarth and Colan throughout January. Last noted in Spring: 12 at Trebelzue March 30th. In autumn first noted at Coswarth, 1 on Sept. 26th and at Penzance, 8 the following day. No further records were received until Oct. 14th when one was seen at St. Columb. Many moved through the County on Oct. 22nd with a max. of 150 at Trevose Head and 140 at Blackrock. From then to the end of the year there were again very few reported with the only flocks of any consequence being 100 at Kilmar Tor Nov. 5th and 100 at Skewjack Dec. 10th.

SONG THRUSH — Breeds. Common Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Virtually nothing reported in respect of breeding. 3 pairs nested in WD's garden at Egloshayle but 2 nests were predated by Magpies, with 4 young being reared from the third nest. The only possible evidence of spring passage was 10 at Penrose on March 26th. In autumn the species is never recorded in vast numbers like Fieldfare and Redwing, but there was nonetheless a substantial incursion between Oct. 19th and 23rd. The maximum numbers at this time were "hundreds" at St. Ives on the 20th and 80 at Trevose Head on the 22nd. Small influxes were evident at Trevose Head on Nov. 4th (36) and 10th (55) with gradually decreasing numbers to the end of the year.

REDWING — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. From reports received for the first winter period, Redwings were evidently scarcer than Fieldfare, with only one flock of any significance. These were 150 at Ladock on Jan. 23rd. It is probable from the lack of records for early March that most, if not all, had left the County. There were however a handful of records from March 12th to the 24th (last 3 at Penzance) indicative of a very light spring passage. Autumn passage commenced with a single at Padstow Oct. 12th, followed by 9 at Newquay the next day. Although small flocks were seen or heard over the next week, there was no indication of the invasion that was to occur on Oct. 22nd. On that day Redwing were reported from all areas of the County with tens, if not hundreds of thousands of birds flying through. Easily the largest count was made at Truro, where BKM estimated 30,000+ flying west during the day. Elsewhere 5,000+ flew west at St. Ives, 2,000+ flew south-east at Colan and 1,000 + were recorded each at Rospeath and Blackrock with many smaller flocks at other localities. The following day, apart from 1,060 which flew in off the sea at Trevose, and 200+ at Coverack, there were no large counts. Subsequently, "good" bird days were few and far between with Trevose Head getting the lion's share (350 Oct. 30th, 110 Nov. 4th, 300 on the 11th and 450 on 16th). At Hellesvean there were 174 on Oct. 30th and at Ninestones there were 200 the same day. In the second winter period there were no reports of more than 20.

77 MISTLE THRUSH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding reported from only 5 areas. At Bude the species is reported as thinly distributed, but apparently had a successful breeding season with young much in evidence during early autumn FHCK. IK. At St. Columb the species seemed scarcer SMC. Infrequently recorded as a migrant but a total of 23, with a maximum of 16 on Nov. 4th, moved through Trevose Head with other thrushes between Oct. 27th and Dec. 1st. At Skewjack 7 on Dec. 3rd had dwindled to 3 on Dec. 17th. Largest flocks elsewhere: Trelissick: 20 Aug. 13th. St. Germans: 30 Oct. 17th.

CETTI'S WARBLER — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A definite increase in the number of singing males during the breeding season, with breeding probably occurring for the first time at Loe Pool. However, as a direct result of the reclamation of land at Angarrack, for the new Hayle by-pass, the species appears to have disappeared. Perhaps the Hayle Millpond bird, listed below is significant. Marazion/Long Rock Reed Bed: Recorded throughout the year. Two pairs bred. On April 14th and May 1st 3 males were singing. During the year BP trapped and ringed 1 adult male, 1 juvenile male, 1 adult female and 2 juvenile females. He also recorded an unringed male in song, which he considered to be a new bird since 1982. Skewjack: 2 Jan. 2nd to April 18th; 1 Oct. 24th; 1 Nov. 5th into 1984, but 2 Dec. 3rd HPKR. DSF. Porthgwarra: 1 Jan. 2nd HPKR. : 2 males April 16th; 1 male May 8th EG. SCM. Poldhu: male singing May 2nd PMcC and 1 ringed Sept. 11th NBE. Hayle Millpond: male singing throughout May and June PRW. Gunwalloe: 3 males May 21st; 1 male June 8th BKM. VRT. PMcC. Upper Kynance Valley: A singing male June 25th to July 9th EGe. Loe Pool: 1 gathering food July 11th EGe and a singing male Nov. 30th DSF. GRASSHOPPER WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Uncommon passage migrant. One 'reeling' at Lansallos on April 2nd was the earliest ever recorded for the County mainland AECA. The next was one near Bude April 16th with most arriving April 23rd to 30th. At first glance spring passage appears to have been above average with reports from 22 localities, but the only multiple occurrence was four at Rame Head on April 30th. The breeding season appears to have been a disaster with PMcC reporting that the species has always been scarce on The Lizard, but his subjective impression is that it is significantly down on the numbers of the early 70's. At St. Columb the species suffered a terrible year with very few on territory SMC. As usual autumn passage was almost non-existent with migrants reported in Aug. nr. Bude (12th) and in Sept. at Landulph (1st), St. Germans (16th), and Drift (23rd).

AQUATIC WARBLER — Scarce passage migrant (autumn) Marazion Marsh/Long Rock Reed Bed: Noted from Aug. 10th to the 24th. 5 juveniles trapped and ringed by BP. But possibly others seen by a number of observers. Skewjack': 1 Aug. 28th HPKR.

78 SEDGE WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. First arrivals were noted on April 16th when there were 2 at Marazion, 1 at Skewjack, and 1 at Bay. Very few were then reported until April 27th-30th, May 7th-8th, and 14th-17th. Spring passage was very poor with the only notable numbers being at Skewjack where there were 9 April 29th, 23 April 30th and 35 May 7th. Breeding numbers were very low but the species was obviously under recorded. Maximum numbers during the breding season were c. 30 pairs at Skewjack, c. 15 pairs at Bude and 10 to 13 pairs at Angarrack. Autumn passage was almost non-existent and apparently lasted from July 24th to Oct. 5th. Maximum numbrs at this time were: Tamar Lake: 80+ birds moved through between July 24th and Sept. 11th. Gunwalloe: 12 July 25th. Par: 12 Aug. 20th. Skewjack: 15 Aug. 28th. Singles at Marazion and near St. Just Oct. 5th were the last recorded.

REED WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Recorded in spring at 7 localities, mainly breeding sites, with the first being one at Marazion April 14th. There were small arrivals April 16th, 17th and 25th and May 4th and 8th. Unusual were 9 at Pentewan on May 4th. Breeding season records were received from Marazion (16 males) but BP reports lower than average success, Par (12 pairs), Angarrack (11 pairs — increase), Loe Pool (8 to 12 pairs — increase), Bude Marshes (4 pairs), Phillack Reed Bed (3 pairs), Upper Kynance (3? pairs — New site?), Skewjack (2 pairs + 2 males), Calstock, Cotehele Quay and Mawgan Porth. At The Lizard PMcC reports that the species is still increasing, but because of the mainly nocturnal song period, the species is often seriously under-estimated. At Gunwalloe for example, a careful day time count showed at least 11 territories in 1982 but a visit at 0300 on June 8th 1983 gave a minimum of 15 to 20 (possibly up to 40 or more) territories. No records were received for established breeding sites at Swanpool, Maenporth, Tregembo, St. Erth, Gwithian, , Trebellan, Harlyn Bay, Tamar Lake, Crowdy Res. Presumably, most if not all of these sites are still occupied — more information is required. In Autumn the only records received were: Par: 25 Aug. 24th. Nr. Bude: Singles Aug. 26th and 29th with 2 on the 31st. Marazion: 2 or 3 Sept. 21st. Skewjack: 2 Sept. 24th. Nr. St. Just: Singles Oct. 2nd and 5th but 2 on 7th. ICTERINE WARBLER — Occasional passage migrant. Nr. Bude: a juvenile trapped and ringed Aug. 26th FHCK. GPS. Nr. St. Just: 1 Oct. 9th SCH. LPW. and 1 Oct. 24th MPS. Assuming that the St. Just records refer to the same bird, these are the 15th and 16th County mainland records. MELODIOUS WARBLER — Occasional passage migrant. Nr. St. Just: Singles Aug. 26th SCH. LPW. and Oct. 3rd SMC. BTSC. Drift: 2 Aug. 29th and 30th JBB. SB. Porthgwarra: Singles Sept. 10th MCT, 14th HCK. ARP. MPS, 18th TMC. EGe. BMK. HPKR. and 24th DSF (but possibly only one bird involved).

79 DARTFORD WARBLER — Breeds. Rare Resident. Passage migrant.

At the main breeding area, five territories were located. Breeding certainly occurred at three territories and possibly on the remaining two. Seven juveniles on October 29th. At the other main breeding area the only report received related to a male in song on March 23rd. Systematic checking of other likely breeding sites by AECA. SCM. proved rewarding with sightings in four localities. Presumbably a bad weather migrant was a male in song at Wacker Quay on January 16th. RMB.

LESSER WHITETHROAT — Occasionally breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Again bred at Angarrack where a pair raised 4 young PAR. Two pairs bred near Bude (where breeding was suspected in 1982). Precise success not known, but each pair was seen with at least 1 fledged young. A third pair held territory during May and probably bred and two other unattached singing males were present nearby in May FHCK. IK. GPS. Elsewhere the good number of singing males in recent years was maintained. Goss Moor: May 8th to the 28th SMC. Nr. Porthallow: May 12th PMcC. Millbrook: May 17th RS. Nr. Coverack: May 21st BKM. TMC. Gannel Est.: May 30th SMC. BTSC. Padstow: Pair displaying May 31st VJH. Laneast: 2 males June 10th JAd'EM. There were 2 Autumn records: Marazion: Aug. 19th AHJH. Porthwrinkle: Aug. 26th SCM.

WHITETHROAT — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

The first one was at Bude April 16th. Only 3 more were recorded up to the 27th when at least 10 arrived at Rame Head. There was a larger fall on the 30th with at least 26 at Rame Head. Subsequently much lower numbers were noted at 27 localities with obvious immigration occurring on May 7th and 8th. There was a definite decrease in the breeding season near St. Just-in-Roseland and St. Columb and Padstow districts, but conversely a good year was reported at Bude. EGe describes it as exceptionally numerous at The Lizard and around Germoe SB found Whitethroats singing from almost every bush. At Skewjack HPKR located 14 pairs and at RAF Portreath RLM found 5 pairs. In Autumn apart from a total of 120 birds which passed through a site near Bude between July 27th and September 6th, there were records from only 6 localities involving the miserly total of less than 20 birds. There was one October record — a single bird at Rame Head on the 7th.

GARDEN WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Uncommon passage migrant.

The first arrival in Spring was one at Camborne on the early date of April 7th CNT. There were 3 more April records, at Torpoint (17th) Scadghill (21st) and Drift (30th). In May reported at only 7 localities with a maximum of 3 at Skewjack May 18th. Breeding season records were received from the Bude district (8 areas — 18 + pairs), St. Columb (3 areas), Ladock, Camborne, Marazion, Helston Amenity Area and The Lizard (singing males at 3 sites). Autumn passage commenced with 7 at Tamar Lake July 14th and ended with 1 near St. Just October 22nd. Only at Tamar Lake and near Bude did any numbers move through. At the former site 30 birds and at the latter site 10 birds were involved.

80 BLACKCAP — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. A few "winter".

Outside of the breeding season, one of the most reported species of 1983. In the first winter period there were more reports than usual, with sightings at 17 locations. The vast majority were single-bird sightings, but there were 2 at Swanvale (Jan. 15th), Seaton (16th), Hessenford (23rd), and Par (Feb. 15th). Although, as always, difficult to differentiate between wintering and spring records, there does appear to have been a dramatic exodus from the county in mid-February, with only odd records for the first week in March. There was a definite 'fall' in mid-March when a pair were noted at Mevagissey on the 14th, followed by 3 at Par the next day. A few more arrived during the next 3 days but nothing between March 22nd and April 6th. Occasional sightings were reported throughout the remainder of April, and May, but Spring passage generally was poor, with most arriving April 16th and after May 1st. Breeding reports were few and far between and cannot possibly reflect the species status in Cornwall. PAR proved breeding at Angarrack for the first time. PMcC, EGe thought the species widely distributed at The Lizard, but TJD considered it less common at Bude. Autumn passage was much more evident than for many years. A total of about 230 birds were noted at 32 localities with a maximum of 15 near Bude August 23rd and 26th, 12+ at Treveal September 29th and 25+ near St. Just September 30th. Most were noted September 29th and 30th and October 22nd, 28th, with a notable late movement involving 20 to 25 birds November 4th to 17th. Ironically, after the good Autumn passage, numbers were not maintained into the second winter period, with records of singles at only 10 sites. YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER — Rare passage migrant (Autumn) Porthgwarra: 1 Oct. 19th SMC. LW. Treveal: 1 Oct. 29th and 30th RC. SDC. EGe. Helston Sewage Works: 1 Dec. 6th to 18th EGe. et al. A good total for the species in an Autumn which was generally poor for Eastern species. The December record was particularly noteworthy and one can speculate as to whether or not the bird may have wintered in the Penrose Estate to Loe Pool area.

BONELLPS WARBLER — Very rare vagrant. Nr. St. Just: 1 Sept. 30th to Oct. 4th SCH. LPW. et al. Arriving at a time when good numbers of other passage migrants were recorded in the county, this lovely bird delighted hundreds of bird watchers. There is only one previous record for mainland Cornwall — at Marazion on the 14th September 1958. Full details reported to BBRC.

WOOD WARBLER — Breeds. Uncommon summer resident. Rare passage migrant. Redmoor: 1 April 30th, 2 Aug. 27th GJC. Luckett: singing male July 1st CR. Loe Pool: 1 July 3rd. Marsland Mouth: singing male, probably bred TJD. Helford: 2 Aug. 4th SB. Drift Res.: 1 Aug. 29th JBB. SB. Porthgwarra: 1 Sept. 8th DSF. None were recorded during the breeding season at , Respryn, , Trago Mills, St. Neot, Cotehele. The run of poor years continues. Breeding season records from only two likely sites but the number of migrants is higher than normal.

81 CHIFFCHAFF — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Some "Winter". Easily the best reported species of 1983. In the first winter period, sightings at 30 localities with a pronounced emphasis on Jan. 8th to 19th. Most reports were of single-day/single-bird sightings, but with the usual high numbers at Helston Sewage works (max. 50+ Jan. 1st). Elsewhere the max. were Helford (4 Jan. 16th), St. John (5 Jan. 2nd), Hayle (6 Feb. 14th). Interestingly at Marazion where the species was formerly regularly recorded during the winter, there was only one report (2 March 1st). As with Blackcap there was a definite exodus from the county in the second and third weeks of February. The commencement of Spring passage was a little easier to detect this year with the first birds arriving on March 5th with other migrants such as Garganey, Wheatear and Black Redstart. Most reached the county March 5th to 7th, 11th to 14th and April 12th to 13th. Max. at this time were 12 at Skewjack March 13th, 11 at Loe Pool April 12th and 16 at The Lizard April 13th. Breeding season reports were widespread with numbers up to normal except in the Bude area. Autumn passage was generally poor — probably most leaving unnoticed, early, in the settled weather of August. There were reports from 35 localities throughout the County with the main passage occurring in the last weeks of August, September and October. As with Blackcap there were several observations in the period from November 4th to 17th. In December, birds were seen at 18 localities, mainly one's and two's but up to 14 at Helston Sewage Works (19th), 10 at Long Rock Reedbed (28th), 7 at Skewjack (3rd). Birds showing characteristics of one of the grey eastern types were noted at St. Clement (2 Jan. 14th), Helston Sewage Works (2 Jan. 23rd and Feb. 3rd), Long Rock (Nov. 20th and 3 Dec. 3rd), Trevose Head (1 Nov. 22nd), Sennen (1 Dec. 17th). Interesting was one at Par on January 28th which was surprised by MG in the downstairs toilet of his house. Presumably it had entered via the open window but quickly flew out again when discovered. (Startled at being caught with its' trousers down perhaps?) Ed.

WILLOW WARBLER — Breeds. Summer Resident. Passage Migrant. The first were 3 at Pentewan on March 28th. The only other March record related to 2 at Marazion on 31st. Numbers generally in Spring were very low with most arriving April 13th to 19th and after May 1st. The maximum at this time were: Skewjack: 30 April 16th, and 60 April 17th. Nr. Bude: 12 April 16th. Rame Head: 14 April 30th. With the exception of the St. Just-in-Roseland area where breeding success appeared to be poor, all other reports received referred to a very good breeding season, with good numbers of young raised. As with Chiffchaff, autumn records were sparse, with most birds moving through the county between Aug. 26th and 30th. Maximum numbers at this time were: Tamar Lake: 50 July 4th. Nr. Bude: 25 Aug. 26th and 30 Aug. 31st. Skewjack: 25 Aug. 28th and 20 Sept. 17th. In October there were singles at Porthgwarra on the 4th and near St. Just on the 25th, but a very late bird was one at Skewjack on Nov. 12th HPKR. At Buryas Bridge on May 6th 1 was singing in a garden in response to a recorded Willow Warbler song, which was being played on a radio on "Bird of the Week" LO. HMO.

82 GOLDCREST — Breeds. Common Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Very few records were received but no evidence of a change in status. Autumn passage generally light with small numbers noted mainly in the west of the County. Most were reported Sept. 14th to 18th, October 3rd, 12th to 16th and 21st to Nov. 4th, with a maximum being 40+ at Cot on Oct. 3rd. Elsewhere there were 18 at Trevose Oct. 21st, 25 at The Lizard Oct. 23rd, 15 + Oct. 29th at Rame Head. In the second Winter period 100 noted between St. Erth and on Nov. 29th was exceptional PRW.

FIRECREST — Uncommon passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor.

After the phenomenal passage of Autumn 1982 it was perhaps not surprising that good numbers would remain in the County to Winter, but the number involved no doubt aided by the mild weather was quite staggering. In January there were records from 28 localities involving 55 + birds. Singles were noted at 15 sites, 2 birds at each of 7 sites, 3 at Millbrook and Loe Pool (29th), 4 at Marazion (10th), 7+ Penlee (3rd), and 9 Skewjack (8th). In February there were records at 14 localities, 10 of which did not hold birds in January. The total number of birds involved had dwindled to about 20 and only one site, Loe Pool, held more than 2 (4 Feb. 3rd). Although difficult to differentiate between wintering and spring migrants, there appears to have been small incursions March 6th to 9th and 12th to 13th. The maximum by far were 6 at Skewjack on the 13th. There were also singles at Par (March 19th) and Lunday Bay (April 2nd). The first for autumn were singles at Saltash and Porthmeor, but 2 at The Lizard Sept. 25th. Several arrived with other passerines during the succeeding week to ten days, but between Oct. 5th and 17th there were virtually no new arrivals. There was certainly a noticeable movement through the County involving c. 60 birds between Oct. 17th and Nov. 1st. The maximum noted at this time were 6 at Kenidjack Oct. 19th and 5 at Porthgwarra Oct. 24th. In November there was a further, lighter, passage between Nov. 5th and 12th, involving 25+ birds, the maximum by far being 10 at Skewjack on the 12th. Subsequently, passage virtually ceased, with just a trickle of singles at the end of the month. In December there were singles at 7 localities and 2 at each of Buryas Bridge (5th), Camel Est. (10th) and Mount Edgcumbe (29th).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER — Breeds. Summer Resident. Passage migrant. The first were singles at Lundy Bay, and Tregadillet on April 30th. There followed reports from 25 localities involving about 35 birds, maximum being 4 at Skewjack on May 23rd. Breeding season records were received from all areas in the County and the species appears to have fared well, for there were autumn records from 20 localities involving c. 150 birds. Most departed Aug. 27th to 28th and Sept. 28th to Oct. 3rd with the max. being: Helston: 8 Aug. 23rd. Lizard: 6 Aug. 27th. Germoe: 5 Aug. 28th. Skewjack: 5 Aug. 29th and Sept. 24th. Porth Res.: 5 Aug. 31st. Moor: 6 Sept. 6th. Nr. St. Just: 10 Sept. 30th. Porthgwarra: 6+ Oct. 1st. Last was one at The Lizard Oct. 5th.

83 RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER — Scarce passage migrant (Autumn). Nr. St. Just: singles Sept. 30th to Oct. 7th SCH. LPW. and Oct. 14th to 15th MJB. HRB. TMC. DSF. BKM. MPS. Porthmeor: 1 Oct. 20th JD. Treveal: 1 Oct. 23rd PRW. Mullion: 1 Oct. 25th EGe.

PIED FLYCATCHER — Breeds in low numbers. Uncommon passage migrant.

As usual only one breeding record. Only three spring passage records, but a better than average autumn. Spring records: St. Enodoc: Male April 27th. Porth Joke: Male April 28th. Upper Fowey Valley: Female May 14th. Noted at Lanhydrock from April 24th where 3 pairs bred. Autumn passage commenced with singles at Trelights and Nr. Bude Aug. 10th, followed by 3 at Crowdy Res. the next day. From then to Oct. 5th odd birds were recorded almost daily at various localities. Most were noted Aug. 21st, Sept. 8th to 9th, 18th and Sept. 24th to Oct. 5th. About 60 birds were involved, all but 6 in the west of the County. The maximum were: Skewjack: 4 Aug. 21st. Porthgwarra: 4 Sept. 6th. Nr. St. Just: 6 Sept. 30th. Last was one at Mullion Oct. 25th.

LONG-TAILED TIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. A welcome increase in the number of records received. Although breeding appeared to occur almost exclusively east of Truro, PAR proved breeding for the first time at Angarrack. There were many reports of flocks in excess of 10, the largest being: Par: 20+ Jan. 20th. Truro: 20 Feb. 12th. Retallack: 20+ July 6th. Crowdy Res.: 30+ Oct. 16th. Stithians: 20 Oct. 24th. Mevagissey: 20 Nov. 6th, Upper Fowey Valley: 20 Nov. 20th. St. Erth: 50+ Nov. 29th (the largest single flock ever reported in the County) PRW. There was a substantial increase in numbers Oct. 24th to 29th suggesting movement through the County. Definite migrants were 12 at Porthgwarra Oct. 24th to Nov. 11th DSF and 9 flying south at Trevose Head Nov. 20th SMC. Possible migrants included 12 at Hayle Oct. 27th, 10 at Treveal the same day and 10 at Pendower Oct. 29th.

MARSH TIT — Breeds. Resident.

No reports received of any change in status. Very few breeding season records received. Possible migrants. Treveal: 1 or 2 Oct. 11th to 19th.

WILLOW TIT — Breeds. Scarce resident. Retallack: At least one pair bred with a maximum of 5 birds seen July 26th SMC. EMC. BTSC. Tamar Lake: seen regularly. 3 pairs probably bred with a max. of 5 birds seen July

84 30th and Aug. 4th TJD. FHCK. IK. GPS. Single pairs probably bred near Bude and near Kilkhampton FHCK. IK. Trethurgy: 2 March 5th GRW. MW. : At least one June 26th AECA. SCM. Helman Tor: 2+ Aug. 29th; 2 Oct. 26th WCN. Upper Fowey Valley: Singles Nov. 13th and 24th, but 2 Nov. 16th JAd'EM. Redmoor: 1 Dec. 6th; 3 Dec. 23rd GJC. PJD.

COAL TIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Breeding reported only at Trendain and R.A.F. Portreath! Only 2 records received for the first 8 months of the year!! But many more autumn migrants than normally. In September there were influxes at Mullion on the 17th and 20th and singles at Skewjack and Nr. Bude on the 25th. In October there were singles at Porthmeor (6th), St. Levan (16th), Kenidjack (23rd), Porthcurno (24th), and Nr. St. Just (27th). Two flew west at Hayle (23rd) when 2 were also present at Porthgwarra. At the latter locality there were a further four (24th) reducing to 2 again (25th). At Treveal there were 3 on the 19th and 5 on the 27th, at Padstow 14 on the 22nd and at Trevose Head 9 flew south on the same day. November records were fewer, but there were single migrants at Skewjack on the 6th and 20th.

BLUE TIT — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant. No reports of a change in status were received. The largest flocks seen included 22 at St. Germans on Jan. 23rd and 32 on Dec. 7th at the same site.

Possible migrants were 40+ at Trevose Head Oct. 2nd and 35+ on Oct. 22nd.

GREAT TIT — Breeds. Common resident. Passage migrant. BP reports a good breeding season with more than usual trapped, at Long Rock and Rospeath. PV reports a very successful season at Trendain and FHCK and IK report a better year than last year in the Bude district. At Trevose Head possible migrants were reported from Oct. 2nd to Nov. 22nd with a maximum of 12 Oct. 22nd.

NUTHATCH — Breeds. Resident.

Very few reports received, but the following were of interest. : Pair nested in an old barn wall DLT. Nr. Bude: 1 Sept. 6th (first record here) FHCK. IK. Porthgwarra: 1 in autumn (2nd record here) BKM.

TREECREEPER — Breeds. Resident.

At Marazion, although noted during the year BP reports that the species seemed scarcer than in the 1970's. Maximum number were 13 in Pool/Helston area on Nov. 30th DSF. Interesting was one watched climbing the church steeple at Sheviock in Oct. SCM.

GOLDEN ORIOLE — Scarce passage migrant.

Skewjack: adult male April 16th; adult female June 5th HPKR; immature male June 20th DSF. HPKR. Portmellon: 1 April 17th BA. Goonhilly: female or immature May 8th PMcC.

85 Smallacombe: male May 15th GJC. St. Mawes: male Sept. 23rd HLL.

RED BACKED SHRIKE — Scarce pasage migrant.

Pentire: female or immature Oct. 1st to 4th MPF. RAF. SMC. This bird completed a marvellous quartet of Shrikes in Cornwall in 1983.

LESSER GREY SHRIKE

Nr. Portscatho: one Sept. 5th to 10th SCM. MPS. RS. SMC. EMC. BTC. et al. The third County mainland record, the others occurring in 1958 and 1961. Accepted by BBRC.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE — Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bearah Tor: one in mid April PS.

WOODCHAT SHRIKE — Vagrant The Lizard: one May 4th EGe. Sennen: female May 13th MPS. The Sennen bird accepted by BBRC.

JAY — Breeds. Resident. Occasional passage migrant.

As a breeding species there were no reports of any change in status. In spring a single migrant was noted at Skewjack May 24th and 27th.

There was an unprecedented influx in autumn which is the subject of a special article "Jay Invasion October 1983" by Dr. C. J. F. Coombs (see page 100). MAGPIE — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant. Once again described as very common with the only slight decrease being noted at Angarrack. Max. numbers this year were down on 1982 with the largest gathering being 23 at Loe Pool (April 17th) and 20+ at Trevose Head (Oct. 2nd). Interesting were 20 flying north north west at Mullion (Oct. 19th) with Jays.

86 JACKDAW — Breeds. Common resident. Passage migrant.

Largest flocks reported during the year: Trevose Head: 300+ Nov. 22nd. Antony: 400 Dec. 13th. Unusual were 9 at Kynance April 16th where the species is normally absent. There was also an enormous movement to the east the same evening. In Autumn 1,000+ flew west at Malpas in five huge flocks on Oct. 22nd and 20,000 + flew north in 10 huge flocks at Porthgwarra on October 23rd BKM. On the same day many thousands were flying south-east at Mullion in the early morning with a repeat performance on Oct. 29th. EGe.

ROOK — Breeds. Resident.

New Rookeries were reported at Denzell Downs near St. Eval 100+ nests. : St. Columb 2 nests. : 2 nests. Changes in Rookeries were reported as follows: Newton, Lanhydrock: 72 nests (38 in 1975). Halloon, St. Columb Road: 67 nests (14 in 1975). Bospolvans, St. Columb: 39+ nests (10 in 1975). Goonhoskyn, Summercourt: 32 nests (54 in 1975). Brighton Cross: 23 nests (31 in 1980). Whitewater, St. Columb: 21 nests (5+ in 1975). : 30+ nests (10+ in 1982, 4 in 1975). St. Mawgan Churchyard: 19 nests (78 in 1975). North Trewan: 14 nests (14 in 1975). Penmellyn, St. Columb: 5 nests (14 in 1975). Lanhainsworth, St. Columb: 5 nests (13 in 1975). Bridge, St. Columb: 4 nests (7 in 1975). Colan: 55 nests (but the rookery has become much more fragmented as result of the loss of Elm trees — 45 in 1982, and 79 in 1975). Boswiddle, Ladock: 21 nests (13 in 1975, 17 in 1974). Forgue Wood, Ladock: 8 to 10 nests (21 in 1982, 30 in 1975). Trelissick: 90 nests (75 in 1982, 86 in 1975). Gweek: c. 30 nests (9 in 1975). , Loe Pool: 65 nests (41 in 1981, 69 in 1980). , Mullion: 29 nests (22 in 1980, 7 in 1975). Meres Valley: 24 nests (22 in 1982, 13 in 1980, 11 in 1979, 21 in 1975). Lizard Church: 5 nests (26 in 1975).

CARRION CROW — Breeds. Common Resident.

Once again very few reports received but as FHCK. IK. have commented "It is hardly surprising because we certainly can't think of anything to report". The largest flock reported for the year were 113 at Millbrook on Feb. 18th.

HOODED CROW (C.c. cornix) — Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

Nr. Sennen: 1 May 7th LPW.

RAVEN — Breeds. Resident. Breeding was reported from 14 sites throughout the county and there appears to have been no change in status. The largest flocks reported were: Wacker Quay: 22 Jan. 16th. Upper Fowey Valley: 20 Jan. 23rd. At Prussia Cove a nesting site was occupied by a pair of Fulmars RDP and at Rame Head RS watched one flying, carrying a large white egg, possibly that of a pigeon in its bill.

STARLING — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Maximum numbers: Lower Moor Plantation: Crowdy 1 million going to roost Oct. 26th. Newlands, Nr. Woolley: 100's of 1,000's roosting second winter period. : c. 64,000 at the main Falmouth roost Nov. 28th. Gunwalloe: 46,000 Dec. 6th. At Marazion hardly any roosted. RMP asks "After 16 years of numbers up to 25,000 roosting, where have they all gone?" At Par the roost was smaller than for several years, with a max. of only 4,000 roosting at the end of August. Interesting were a pair feeding young in a hole in a house wall at Saltash on Jan. 9th. RHd. The only aberrant reported during the year was one at Davidstow with a partially white tail Aug. 22nd to Sept. 25th.

HOUSE SPARROW — Breeds. Resident.

There has been a definite decrease at Padstow since 1982 and at Egloshayle. WD considers the species less common than formerly. At Buryas Bridge LO. HMO. recorded only a single female during the year. The only large flock reported for the year were 90 at West Pentire Oct. 1st. Abberrants: Beach, St. Ives: A female with a red forehead July 15th RHR. Blackrock: Female with white patches on the back PSk.

RED-EYED VIREO — Very rare vagrant.

Trevose Head: An immature Oct. 10th SMC. ABR. Hard on the heels of the first County mainland record in 1982, came this second individual, but unfortunately, it could not be re-located the following day. Accepted by BBRC.

CHAFFINCH — Breeds. Common resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period the species was evidently scarce with the only large flock being 400-1- at Lostwithiel Jan. 20th. The first reported evidence of autumn migration was 230 flying south at Trevose Head on Oct. 21st. Subsequently, about 2,000 flew through this site with the max. being 550 Oct. 22nd, 320 Nov. 4th, and 450 Nov. 10th. Elsewhere numbers were very low with only 3 flocks in excess of 100. Rame Head: 170 Oct. 28th. Hellesvean: 130+ Oct. 30th. Blackrock: 500 during Nov. and Dec.

BRAMBLING — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. (Nos. fluctuate from year to year).

None in the first winter period, after very low numbers in autumn 1982. In autumn first noted was one at Porthmeor Oct. 20th. Subsequently as in 1982 numbers were again very low with small influxes Oct. 29th, Nov. 4th, 5th, 8th, 10th and 15th. The max. by far was 80 at Helston Nov. 8th. 15 were at Rame Head Nov. 4th and 11 at Trevose the same day, but all other reports concerned less than 10 birds. December records were few and far between, with singles at Duckpool and Trevose Head (1st), Zennor (3rd), but 27 St. Germans (7th) and 25 at Blackrock at the end of the year.

88 SERIN — Vagrant.

Porthgwarra: one flew over calling Oct. 23rd BKM. Trevose Head: one flew north calling Nov. 4th SMC. Drift: male Nov. 23rd LO. HMO.

GREENFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Although obviously widespread in the County, breeding season reports were received from only 9 localities. Very few reports for the first winter period, the largest flock being 60 at Loe Pool on April 10th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with five at Skewjack Aug. 21st and continued until about Nov. 20th when there was one near Bude. There was a flock of c. 100 at Colan Sept. 28th but most passed through the County after Oct. 21st. At Trevose Head c. 250 birds were recorded between Oct. 22nd and Nov. 18th with a max. of 170 Nov. 4th. The only other large flock at this time was 150 at Hellesvean Oct. 30th. In the second winter period the largest flocks were 300 at throughout November and 300 at Blackrock in November and December.

GOLDFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Reported as well established and breeding successfully in the St. Just-in-Roseland area EMP. LSP. and exceptionally numerous at The Lizard in Spring EGe. but virtually absent in the first winter period in south-east Cornwall SCM. Very few breeding reports received, but several flocks in excess of 40 reported in Aug./Sept.; the largest being 74 at Porth Res. on Aug. 31st. In October there was a reasonable passage through the County with a max. of 200 at Tregantle on Oct. 8th. Other large flocks included 60 at Kenidjack Oct. 19th, and c. 150 moved through Trevose Head between Oct. 27th and Dec. 1st, with a max. of 70 on the first date. The largest gathering at the end of the year were 50 with other finches at Blackrock throughout Nov. and Dec.

SISKIN — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeds?

Scarce in the first winter period; January records were: Sheviock (one on the 8th), Dunmere (17+ on the 9th), Polbathic (11 flew west on the 18th), Par (one on the 20th), Hessenford (one on the 23rd). There were only two records for February; 2 at Truro (5th) and a male at Helston (15th). In Spring there were 3 at St. Andrews, Par March 27th and 2 at St. Levan Apr. 27th. Breeding season records were again received for the Upper Fowey Valley — Smallacombe area. Autumn passage was first noted with one at Treveal Oct. 12th followed by 12+ at Trendain on the 15th. Small flocks were reported from 17 localities, with passage apparently ending Nov. 7th. The max. at this time were a total of 42 at Trevose Head between Oct. 21st and Nov. 7th with the largest single count being 26 on Nov. 4th. The only other double figure counts were 13 at Porthgwarra Oct. 25th, 10 at Lelant Oct. 27th and 10 at Wacker Nov. 6th. In the second winter period the only records received were of: 7 Nov. 19th and 3 Dec. 17th at Skewjack, 26 Nov. 28th at Dunmere, 2 Dec. 23rd at Trelissick, and 5 Dec. 29th at Sladesbridge.

89 LINNET — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period the only flock of any significance were 200 at St. Antony on Jan. 10th. No other gathering exceeded 50 birds. There were breeding reports from a meagre seven sites, but these included the high total of 30 to 40 pairs at RAF Portreath RLM. Post-breeding flocks reported from several areas including 100 + at St. Eval and 70 at The Lizard Aug. 31st. Autumn passage apparently commenced Oct. 1st when there were 350 at West Pentire. The following day only 100 remained but 120 had arrived at Trevose Head. 200 at Rame Head Oct. 13th and 100 at Pentire Oct. 29th were other large gatherings but the heaviest movements were observed at Trevose Head. Peak numbers were 550 Nov. 7th and 700 on 10th. There was a rapid decline with only 8 on 22nd but another influx of 210 Dec. 1st. This influx did not winter and indeed there were no large flocks at the end of the year. REDPOLL — Breeds. Uncommon resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

After suggesting a few years ago that this species was increasing as a breeding bird in Cornwall, it is appalling that only three breeding season records were received for 1983. Coverage of the conifer plantations on Bodmin Moor is sparse to say the least. All records for the year are listed: Siblyback: 6 Feb. 13th TJD. St. Andrews, Par: 2 Mar. 30th RDP. Hustyn: displaying male Apr. 30th SMC. Smallacombe: single males May 26th REW and June 26th GJC. Trevose Head: singles flew south Oct. 22nd and 27th SMC. Skewjack: 3 Oct. 23rd DSF. : 2 Oct. 29th LPW. : one Oct. 29th DSF. Marazion: one Oct. 29th DSF. Carnsew: one Oct. 30th PSk. Rame Head: 15 Nov. 3rd SCM. Camel Est.: 2 Nov. 4th SMC. BTSC.

CROSSBILL — Scarce autumn/winter visitor. An irruptive species. Crowdy Res.: 5 (2 males, one immature male and 2 females or immatures) July 26th. These birds flew down from waterside sallows to drink in pools left by the lowering water level of the reservoir. FHCK. IK. Drift: A small party Aug. 20th JBB. SB. Leedstown: adult male Oct. 29th DSF. Tehidy Woods: one Nov. 15th DSF. The most reported in a year since 1972. The Crowdy record might be indicative of local breeding, but in view of the fact that the species breeds very early and disperses widely in mid-summer, the possibility must be treated with caution. Ed.

BULLFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Very few records received. The species evidently had a better year at Bude, but elsewhere there were no reports of any increase or decline. Breeding was reported from only 7 areas. In autumn, 11 at The Lizard Oct. 20th were probably migrants.

BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER — Very rare vagrant. Kynance: one Oct. 2nd. Like Red-eyed Vireo, recorded in consecutive years. Unfortunately, at the time of going to press the lucky observers had not passed details to me and I am indebted to BBRC for the bare bones of the record.

90 AMERICAN REDSTART — Very rare vagrant. Kenidjack: one variously described as a first winter male, female or immature female from Oct. 13th to 23rd. HRB. MJB. DSF. GCH. MPS. et al. The third Nearctic passerine of the autumn — this 'blue riband' bird delighted hundreds of birdwatchers. There is one previous record for the County mainland. Accepted by BBRC. SLATE-COLOURED JUNCO — Very rare vagrant. The Lizard: one May 27th PW. The first record for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. A typical date for this bunting-type bird. Accepted by BBRC.

LAPLAND BUNTING — Scarce passage migrant (Autumn). Trevose Head: 6 Oct. 2nd and one flying north Nov. 4th SMC. EMC. BTSC. Hellesveor: one Oct. 30th EGC. Reskajeage Downs: 2 Nov. 5th and 6th, one Nov. 13th DSF. The Trevose birds always seem to turn up in the same stubble field.

SNOW BUNTING — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Gwithian: 4 (3 males) Apr. 4th GCH. Eastern Green: female May 11th MPS. Cape Cornwall: female May 14th PC. Towan Head: one Sept. 15th JH. PMcV. Nr. Bude: one Sept. 24th GPS. Navax Point: one Oct. 12th DSF. St. Just Airfield: one Oct. 13th PJD. The Rumps: 4+ Oct. 16th GJC, one Oct. 19th RS. Morvah: male Oct. 17th JH. Nr. St. Just: male Oct. 17th JH. Trevose Head: 7 Oct. 20th JD, one Oct. 21st SMC. Porthgwarra: one Oct. 25th DSF, one Nov. 17th GCH. Godrevy: one Oct. 28th and 29th DSF. Porthmeor: 3 Nov. 5th GJC. Davidstow Airfield: one Nov. 13th LW. Another good year. YELLOWHAMMER — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant. This species appears to be declining quite rapidly in some parts of the County. EMP and LSP report a bad year at St. Just-in-Roseland and both EGe and SP noted a considerable decrease at The Lizard with apparently only one breeding pair. WD recorded a slight decrease at Egloshayle, whilst VJH describes the species' distribution as patchy in the Padstow area. Only at was there an increase WCN. Good numbers in the Marazion area BP, an average year at Bude FHCK. IK. and regularly seen at Tregony EMP. LSP. Breeding reported from only six areas with the maximum by far being ten to twelve sites in the St. Columb-Colan-Coswarth district PJD. Maximum numbers: Mount Joy: 20 Aug. 4th. Rame Head: 18 Sept. 28th, 40 Oct. 13th, 30+ Oct. 23rd. Skewjack: 15 Nov. 20th. St. Eval: 45+ Dec. 4th. Castle-an-Dinas: 21 Dec. 4th. The only possible migrants reported were 2 Nr. Bude Oct. 23rd and at Trevose Head 4 Oct. 27th and 8 flying south Nov. 4th.

CIRL BUNTING — Breeds. Rare resident. As in 1982, birds were noted at 4 sites in the S.E. Cornwall area but breeding again not proved. Better news from the Mylor-Flushing area where there would appear to have been two pairs, at least one of which bred. Elsewhere there were single males at Blackrock Aug. 19th PSk, Rame Head Oct. 19th RWG and Trevose Head Oct. 26th GJU.

92 MARSH TIT— SiblybackLake M. P. Frost AMERICAN REDSTAR T

— Kenidjack, Oct. 1983

S. C. Hutchings ORTOLAN BUNTING — Rare passage migrant.

Nr. St. Just: immature Sept. 24th DSF. et al. Caerthillian: one (male?) Sept. 26th PMcC. Trevose Head: female or immature Oct. 2nd SMC. The highest annual total since 1977.

LITTLE BUNTING — Rare vagrant. Skewjack: one, probably a female, in summer plumage Apr. 30th-May 8th HPKR. GCH. et al. The sixth for mainland Cornwall — all since 1975. Accepted by BBRC.

REED BUNTING — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Only two reports received for the first winter period — at Hensbarrow there was a flock of 35 on Jan. 22nd and at Newlyn East there were 8 on March 6th. Reported from only seven areas during the breeding season. Is this another bunting in decline? Autumn migrants were reported as follows: Rame Head: 2 Oct. 13th, one Oct. 20th and 3 on 22nd. Trevose Head: 3 Oct. 21st, 4 on 22nd, one on 27th, 5 Nov. 4th, 1 on 7th and 3 on 10th. Kynance: 18 Nov. 19th. The largest gathering in the second winter period were 50 at Dozmary Pool Nov. 20th.

CORN BUTNING — Breeds. Resident.

PMcC. EGe. and JSG all report a collapse in the breeding population at The Lizard. There was no evidence of breeding and in fact only eight sightings for the year. Elsewhere, breeding occurred at the traditional North coast sites and in the Lands End-Sennen area there were May and October records but none in the summer. The largest flocks reported were: 40+ at Porth, nr. Newquay Jan. 9th, 75 at St. Eval Airfield throughout Feb. and March and 25+ at Trevose Head Dec. 4th. Unusual: Maer Lake: singing male May 29th (Our first record here) FHCK. IK. Penlee Point: 2 in stubble Oct. 25th SCM. Hayle Est.: one flying over Oct. 29th DSF. Godrevy: a leucistic bird in a flock of 10 Nov. 6th and 18th DSF.

93 EXOTICA' BAR-HEADED GOOSE 4 semi-feral birds at Maenporth Jan. 17th RDP. CHILOE WIGEON One at Helston Amenity Area Nov. 8th EGe. PARAKEET sp. 2 at in October PTS. RH. 2 at Copperhouse in September and October. DSF. (Neither were Ring-necked Parakeet — a species which will surely be recorded in the County in the near future). BUDGERIGAR A green bird freely associating and feeding with Linnets on thistles in a stubble field at Bude on Aug. 7th. FHCK. IK. GLOSSY STARLING One ranging over a large area of the Torpoint-Millbrook district from early October to the end of the year. BGE. SCM. REWn. GREEN SINGING FINCH One in song on numerous occasions Aug. 10th-25th at Trispen. RDP.

BRITISH BIRDS RARITIES COMMITTEE DECISIONS 1982

Black-browed Albatross St. Ives Pending Corys Shearwater Porthgwarra All accepted Little Shearwater Porthgwarra Pending St. Ives Not submitted by observer Madeiran Petrel St. Ives All Pending Little Bittern The Lizard Not submitted by observer Night Heron College Res. Not submitted by observers Wood Duck Penzance Rejected Marazion Not submitted by observer American Wigeon Hayle/Copperhouse Pending Lesser Golden Plover Davidstow Accepted Stithians Accepted White-rumped Sandpiper Hayle & Marazion Accepted The Lizard Not submitted by observer Buff-breasted Sandpiper All Accepted Long-billed Dowitcher Stithians Both accepted Pratincole sp. Probus Rejected South Polar Skua St. Ives All pending Ring-billed Gull All Accepted except Bude (Jan. 26th) Rejected and Marazion & St. Ives Not submitted by observers Bridled Tern St. Ives Accepted Great Spotted Cuckoo Wadebridge Accepted Chimney Swift Porthgwarra Accepted Pallid Swift Redruth Rejected Bee-eater Not submitted by observer Red-rumped Swallow Porthcurno Not submitted by observer Richards Pipit Rame Head Accepted Porthgwarra Not submitted by observers

94 The Lizard Not submitted by observers Kynance Not submitted by observers Tawny Pipit The Lizard Not submitted by observers St. Levan Not submitted by observers Siberian Stonechat Penlee Point Rejected Trevose Head Accepted Varied Thrush Nr. St. Just Pending Aquatic Warbler Marazion (Sept. 5th) Accepted Stithians (Aug. 25th) Rejected Remainder Not submitted by observers Pallas's Warbler The Lizard (Oct. 27th) Accepted The Lizard (Nov. 8th) Not submitted by observer Woodchat Shrike Porthgwarra Accepted Rose-coloured Starling Davidstow Accepted Mullion & Marazion Not submitted by observers Red-eyed Vireo Sennen Accepted Serin Porthgwarra & Porth- curno Accepted Gulval Not submitted by observers Black-and-White Warbler Accepted Northern Mockingbird Saltash Accepted The following rarities which were submitted to BBRC, but which were not included in 'Birds in Cornwall 1982', were all rejected. Short-toed Eagle Coverack: Sept. 11th. Gyrfalcon Camel Est.: Oct. 13th. White-rumped Sandpiper Bude: April 7th and 8th. Slender-billed Curlew Camel Ext.: Oct. 18th. Crested Lark Coverack: June 2nd and 3rd. Richards Pipit Bude: Aug. 22nd. Rock Sparrow: Davidstow: March 8th. Serin Bude: Jan. 8th. Porthgwarra: April 12th. Citril Finch Liskeard: July 30th.

ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS 1978 Dartford Warbler Caerthillian: one Oct. 14th PMcC.

1980 Red-rumped Swallow Swanpool: the bird of Nov. 3rd now accepted by BBRC.

1981 Ring-billed Gull All accepted by BBRC with the exception of the Towan Head bird, which was rejected. Also: Hayle Est.: a second winter bird Sept. 27th. K. Vinnicombe. Accepted by BBRC.

1982 Red-throated Diver The Moules: one Mar. 8th. Black Throated Diver The Moules: 4 Feb. 7th, one Mar. 8th. Great Northern Diver Camel Est.: 3 Jan. 11th, 4 Jan. 28th. Great Crested Grebe Camel Est.: 2 Jan. 25th. Little Egret : one Aug. 20th M. Bevan. Accepted by BBRC. Bewick's Swan Camel Est.: one last noted Mar. 9th PS.

95 Whooper Swan Camel Est.: decomposed remains found Apr. 20th PS. Brent Goose 'Copperhouse: 34 dark-bellied etc.' should read:— Carnsew: 34 dark-bellied, etc. Gadwall Camel Est.: drake Mar. 9th. Hen Harrier St. Minver: male Oct. 31st. Quail Kynance: one Oct. 3rd. D. Moss et. al. Grey Phalarope Towan Head: 4 flew west Nov. 15th. Arctic Skua Camel Est.: a dark phase bird Oct. 19th. Little Gull Mother Ivey's Bay: 6 Jan. 6th. Bonapartes Gull Marazion: Observers initials should read RIA. PF. PDK. LPW. Sandwich Tern St. Ives: 200+ flew west over the town in ^hour Sept. 22nd RIA. BRF. Black Tern Porthgwarra: 2 west Sept. 14th. Towan Head: one west Oct. 30th. White-winged Black Tern Hayle Est.: Sept. 22nd — observers initials should read RIA. RAH. PDK. HT. SCH. Guillemot Marblecliff, Trevone: 8 pairs. Carters Rocks: breeding. Razorbill Marblecliff, Trevone: 5 pairs. Carters Rocks: breeding. Turtle Dove Trevose Head: one July 20th and 21st. Hoopoe Mother Ivey's Bay: one Sept. 18th PD. Wryneck Towan Head: one Sept. 21st PMcV. Porthgwarra: one Sept. 11th and 12th RWSK. Syke's Wagtail should read Sykes's Wagtail. Golden Oriole St. Keverne: one Oct. 30th should read one May 30th. Red-backed Shrike Pentire Point: female Oct. 30th RGW.

Notes

COMMENTS ON TWO BITTERN RECORDS FROM DISTRICT

Little Bittern An additional record which has not been published anywhere concerns a female (from presence of brown in upperparts) which was flushed several times at Carbeile Mill, Torpoint during its stay of two or three days from 9th May 1955. The bird was discovered by G. S. Leonard and shown to R. Fussell, and was found dead some time later, although not in a state worthy of preservation. Mr. Leonard was not a member of CBWPS unfortunately, but after his death, his notebooks were passed to me and I consider the record important enough not to be forgotten. Although very young at the time, I remember being shown the remains. American Bittern In his "Supplement to the Birds of the Cornish Coast" included in 'The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly" p.44, Roger Penhallurick refers to a bird of this species being killed at Woodhill, Liskeard in 1871 as being an additional record for the county. However it does seem that a case of mistaken identity was involved as Harting in "A Handbook of British Birds" (1872), p. 152 refers to a specimen identified as American Bittern which was recorded at Woodhill, near Liskeard on 4th December 1870 but on examination proved to be a European Bittern. Obviously this record should be deleted.

S. C. Madge 96 CRANE? Nr. R.A.F. ST. MAWGAN

The body was of a reddish colour and looked rather rectangular with dark square markings on the side. The neck was rather long, black or very dark brown in colour, and normally held at an angle of 45° to the ground. The head was off white in colour and held at approximately 90° to the neck. It had a very long tongue with a bulbous end, but on occasions it was possible to detect a hooked tip. The tongue was a dark oily grey colour with silvery grey streaks. I was unable to see below the body line, owing to its retiring habit — it dodged between buildings in a slow purposeful manner.

Particular confusion was caused by it wearing its name along its flank — are 'Sparrows' really this big? What then, are those small grey and brown birds I see in the back garden? Why is this individual not illustrated in my Field Guide? Which book did Eugene Christophers use to identify it? Why have all the twitchers been down to see it? Am I looking at the right object? Can anyone shed any light on the matter? — Please. F. M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, Bodmin.

SOME OBSERVATIONS ON BREEDING LESSER WHITETHROATS AT ANGARRACK FIELD, HAYLE by P. A. Rutter

1981 I first became aware of a Lesser Whitethroat at Angarrack Fields when I heard a male singing on May 8th. I recorded this male singing, until May 25th. Subsequently, I watched a pair carrying food to a nest site, from which one young was reared. A second pair bred at the eastern end of the Marsh, rearing three young, which I last noted on August 21st.

1982 A male returned on May 9th and sang regularly until May 30th. As in 1981, a pair were watched carrying food to a nest site, with breeding being proved on June 13th when three young were seen. My last sighting was on July 7th.

1983 I was concerned this year, because of reclamation of part of the fields for the new Hayle-By-Pass, that the birds would now find the area unsuitable for breeding. (This concern was justified in respect of Cettis Warbler which appear to have been completely displaced). However, on May 15th, a male Lesser Whitethroat was heard singing, and continued to do so until May 28th. On June 13th a pair were seen carrying food to a nest site a few metres from that used in 1981 and 1982. Breeding was proved on June 25th — 4 young reared, remaining in the area until August 5th.

General Notes The male returned at much the same time each year and sang until the last week of May. The female was never obvious until seen carrying food.

97 As previously mentioned Angarrack Fields have been partially destroyed, but originally a considerably larger area was under threat. After three years of discussions and a Public Inquiry, wholesale destruction now appears to have been averted, with amendments having been made to the Local Plan. Summary Lesser Whitethroats bred at Angarrack Fields in 1981 (2 prs. — 4 young reared), 1982 (1 pr. — 3 young reared) and 1983 (1 pr. — 4 young reared). Acknowledgements To the late Mr. A. G. Parsons for his unfailing support at the Public Inquiry which resulted in the abandonment of plans to develop the northern section of the fields.

To Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation for the same reason.

THE RETURN OF THE DARTFORD WARBLER TO CORNWALL

The fortunes of the Dartford Warbler in Britain this century follow the familiar pattern of several species on the northern edge of their breeding range. Although widespread along the whole of the South coast once; through habitat loss and possibly climatic rigors, the breeding range has contracted greatly until only the heathlands of Dorset and Hampshire have anything like a stable population, although even here the species can be very badly hit by severe winters. A species then, teetering on the edge of an abyss, and perhaps about to over the edge into extinction as a British breeding species.

With this rather gloomy forecast, it is even more surprising that, after a period of forty years, Dartford Warblers were proved to breed again in the county in 1980. After several birds were found at a South Eastern coastal locality in September 1979, successful breeding was proved the following Spring with at least three pairs raising young. The last breeding prior to this was in roadside gorse near Cam Brea in 1940, although in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries the species was much more widespread appearing in many gorse areas of Penwith and The Lizard. Indeed, as shown by the 1940 breeding, almost any size area of gorse could hold a pair or two, and as well as nesting on the larger coastal heaths already mentioned, birds had also been successful in years past at St. Cleer Common, , Penryn and near Truro (Penhallurick 1978).

Although thought of mainly as a sedentary species, it has been proved that it is at least a partial migrant, with a post breeding dispersal of birds spreading out along the coast from their main areas (Bibby 1979). In recent years, several, if not all, of the birds seen in the Autumn mainly in West Cornwall and Scilly, are no doubt linked with this dispersal. Colin Bibby (pers. com.) thinks it more likely that our birds arrived due to this dispersal from British breeding areas, rather than areas in North West France, (the species next nearest breeding location). He has long thought that the coastal gorse of the South West would make ideal habitat for Dartford Warblers, if only a male and female could end up in the same area following the dispersal to stay to breed. They could also benefit from our milder winters.

The 1980 breeding, very interesting though it was, could well have proved to be an isolated, localised occurrence, but other birds were found in suitable areas close by, and by 1983 birds or pairs were located along a very large stretch of the South Cornish coast. For security reasons exact localities cannot be given, but there have

98 been enough sightings in Spring and Summer to suggest that a vigorous, if yet small, population may be establishing itself again in Cornish furze.

If you are in any likely areas of gorse and thorn on the coast or even elsewhere, it may well be worth keeping this species in mind. Every warbler 'scolding' from deep in the undergrowth may not be a Whitethroat, and with a little care and patience it may be possible over the next few years to get an even more accurate picture of this bird's status in Cornwall.

Roger Smaldon References: Bibby, C. J. 1970 : Mortality and movements of Dartford Warblers in England. Brit. Birds 72, 10-22. Penhallurick, R. 1978 : The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Penzance.

THOUGHTS ON THE GREAT AUK by Peter Dwyer

This year, 1984 sees the 140th anniversary of an event that we should at least remember. Celebrations are not in order, a commemorative service would be more appropriate. For the anniversary is that of the final extinction of Pinguinnis impennis — a victim of man's greed, ignorance and callous disregard for other species.

Great Auks used to breed on offshore islands in the arctic and sub-arctic regions of the North Atlantic, chiefly in the area of the Newfoundland Banks, Greenland, Iceland, St. Kilda and Orkney. The last pair recorded in Orkney were killed in 1812. The remains are now in the British Museum. It is thought that the last Gt. Auk to be seen alive in British waters was clubbed to death on one of the great sea stacks of St. Kilda, by two islanders. They thought it was a witch! The very last of these giant auks was killed on Eldey Island, off south-west Iceland, on June 4th, 1844. Since that date no fully acceptable record of a living Gt. Auk is known.

Why did it become extinct? It was a big bird, some thirty inches tall, with large deposits of fat and tasty flesh. Being flightless, its small wings mainly used for swimming, it was easily captured when on shore. During the 18th and 19th centuries it was increasingly taken for food, especially by fishermen and sailors, who were said sometimes to have driven them up planks straight on board their boats. Man had exploited the Garefowl, as the Gt. Auk was called, as a food resource for hundreds of years and by the 19th century this bearable predation had become an immense slaughter which culminated in the final extermination of the species. All that is left, apart from remains and eggs in museums is the name Pinguinnis, which was handed on to a completely different group of species which inhabit the southern hemisphere. Completely different that is, in their origins, but a product of convergent evolution that made them so similar in appearance and life style to the Garefowl that they were named penguins.

At the time when the North Atlantic was being opened up for Man's use it was commonly believed that all wildlife was subordinate to ourselves, a gift from a benevolent Creator for Man's disposal. During the intervening 140 years since the Gt. Auk became extinct attitudes have changed to a more conservationist outlook, where we tend to recognise birds and other animals as being fellow creatures on our planet. They are not just fellow creatures, with equal rights to exist, but, like

99 ourselves, a part of the ecological fabric of us all. Increasingly we must realise that any damage we cause to this fabric is a self-inflicted wound. The unnecessary extinction of any species is not just the loss of something unique and interesting in its own right, but the loss of a part of ourselves and the richness of our lives. Throughout the evolutionary past, species have arisen. Some are with us still but others have become extinct, known only from their fossil remains. It is the natural order of things that this should be so. Man's impact on the natural world is also in the natural order of things. At least it was; but in our historical records we can see that Man has caused the extinction of many species of both plants and animals long before their natural course has run out. This detrimental impact is increasingly evident. Consider this; primitive man was an integral part of his environment, his role that of a natural predator. With his ever increasing adaption and the burgeoning populations which have resulted the role of Man has changed to that of Superman. Superman has achieved dominance over virtually all other species of animal. Our present populations have colonized almost every part of Earth, so adaptive have we become that we have trod our Moon and are reaching into our known universe, and beyond. With our increasing ability to exploit our environment we have already reached the point where we can totally destroy the natural balance of our planet. I think we are well advanced in doing just that. It follows that if we have this capability we also have a choice. Since the days when the Gt. Auk was being exterminated we have made some progress. When the oceans of the southern hemisphere began to be developed man was still ignorantly subjecting nature to his rapacious exploitation. But attitudes were changing and, though penguins were being slaughtered in their millions for their oil, meat and feathers, to say nothing of seals and whales, the tide of opinion turned and penguins (at least) were spared the fate of the Gt. Auk. In the early decades of this century the effects of man's stirring conscience began to be felt with the enactment of protective legislation. Today there is a strong conservation lobby. There are many more protective acts in force, if not all enforced. This movement is international, though by no means fully contributed to by all nations. Despite the meaning, and the vital necessity of nature conservation to our ultimate existence there is still no concerted urgency, particularly where it counts most, among the governments of the world. Political will is required to achieve the desired end, not just political lip service. Will tomorrow be too late? We should mark well this anniversary for it is a timely warning.

JAY INVASION OCTOBER 1983

Nineteen eighty three was one of the years in which there was an autumn irruption of Jays (Garrulus glandarius) from the North and East into Western Europe. In 1935, for example, Delmquain described a movement of jays in South West France, starting on September 25th; on October 8th and 9th there was a rush of jays and the woods were full of them feeding on acorns and chestnuts. In 1957 there was an invasion of jays in South East England — 600-1000 were recorded in Essex on September 21st (Cramp, Petit and Sharrock 1960). There has been evidence that on some occasions there has been a return movement many months later, up to June of the following year (Geyr von Schweppenberg 1939). In the autumn of 1983 there were reports of very large movements of jays across Poland and in the North of France. On October 2nd, 110 came in from the sea at Dungeness and 896 from the sea at St. Margaret's Bay near Dover. (Mead

100 1983). The first observations in Cornwall were on October 8th, one at Rame Head and four at Gerrans; on the 9th there were 5 at Cot Valley, St. Just-in-Penwith. It might be expected that the jays would have followed the South coast from Kent where the largest numbers appear to have reached England. But they have been very much more numerous in the opposite quarter of the county. Perhaps because jays are more usually found in wooded valleys than in open country near the sea, most of them seem to have travelled the whole length of the county before it became obvious that their presence and numbers were unusual. If we draw a line passing through Launceston and Prussia Cove and bisect it with another at right angles to the first it passes approximately through Park Head on the North coast and Pentewan near St. Austell; (Fig. 1 Map). We have four divisions of the County — NW and SW, NE and SE. A total of 6064 were noted in the North West quarter, 118 in the North East, 1652 in the South West and 2268 in the South East. Apart from birds which appear to have stayed on, in one case into 1984, the last numerical record was of 10 jays on November 9th at Rame Head.

We can now consider these records in terms of time as well as of the quarter of the county in which they occurred. The largest number were recorded in the North West quarter between October 15th and 21st. The table shows the numerical and area distribution during the time of the invasion.

101 JAY INVASION NW NE SW SE October 8th-14th 1687 48 547 739 October 15th-21st 4765 59 1099 1485 October 21st-28th 6 11 6 9 October 28th-November 9th 6 2 — 35

The records in the second week include the two highest numbers, 1250 near St. Just-in-Penwith on 17th and 1000 at Mullion on 19th. Those at St. Just were flying west and those at Mullion north west. These two might well represent the same large flock. Differences in direction of flights cannot be correlated with any general direction of movement. At Saltash for example on October 10th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th jays were observed flying west or south west. At Millbrook on October 13th and 14th they were flying south east. At Mevagissey on 13th, 50 jays were flying north and the next day 80 were going south; and at Gerrans on October 8th, 11th, 13th, 17th, 19th and 22nd those seen were going north. In the west and north of the county movements were equally confused. At and Marazion on October 17th, 15 and 60 jays were seen flying west, and near Zennor on 19th, 100 were recorded as going in that direction. While at Penzance on 11th over 100 were recorded as going eastwards and on 17th 6 were seen going in the opposite direction. The very large flock of 1000 birds mentioned above were seen at Mullion going northwestwards; but at Nanquidno not far from St. Just-in-Penwith on 11th and 12th, 68 and 14 were seen to go north and on 14th 104 were going south. This suggests that at this stage in the invasion the jays had travelled as far to the Southwest of the country as they could and that these were general movements in search of food. These confused movements of jays have probably been made up of a huge influx of birds from continental Europe combined with local movements of British jays deprived of their annual acorn supply by the small wasp Andricus quercus calicis and I am indebted to Stella Turk for the following accounts of this insect: ". . . . the sexual generation of which forms tiny galls on the catkins of the Turkey Oak 'Quercus cerais' whilst the second all female generation causes a large barnacle like excrescence on the English Oak 'Quercus robur\ The Turkey Oak is an alien introduced about a couple of centuries ago. The gall was first found in Britain about 1960, and in Cornwall in 1978". (Fig. 3). The illustration shows the "Knopper gall" on the cup of a degenerate acorn and a section showing the larval cell. The acron has been destroyed.

102 Food is usually the most important factor in the control of bird populations, and a very liberal supply of stored acorns, which are used by jays from June onwards, might have allowed an unusually high survival rate among the 1982 young birds. Mr. N. T. T. Phillips of the Forestry Commission has verified that the 1982 acorn crop was unusually large (Phillips, N. T. T. pers. comm. to Stella Turk). This would add to the jays' difficulties in a year of acorn shortage. Migrant birds travelling long distances need to store fat as food for the journey, to do this they need to be able to feed well. These jays must have left their residence area because of shortage of food and although they are adaptable and can turn to many other food sources, one would expect a high mortality among them. There have, however, been few reports of dead jays. Some of those that have been sent for examination have been of a colour type associated with the northern and eastern points of the species range. The systematic classification of jays has undergone various stages of "splitting and lumping" and has included the division into continental, British and Irish subspecies used by Witherby in 1938. It is now considered to be a single species showing a "cline" or gradation of characteristics from greyer and paler in the North and East to redder and darker in the West. This is not an absolute division of characters because some greyish birds are bred in the British Isles. The jay (Garrulus glandarius) is an old world species with a distribution which coincides, except in a few areas such as northern Sweden, with the distribution of oak tree species. And although they are adaptable and omnivorous feeders, that part of their diet which is made up of acorns is specialised and very important. Important for the jays and for the oaks. It may well be that they are the greatest natural planters of these. Their exploitation of the acorn harvest is of course an autumn activity. Jays have a specially enlarged oesophagus enabling them to carry acorns, beech mast or hazel nuts to a point of concealment, and a very liberal supply of saliva to make it easier to regurgitate dry food into the store (Turcek and Kelso 1968). Jays appear to take more acorns, 6 or 7 and up to 9 occasionally if they are concealing them at a distance, some miles if the crop is scanty, from the collecting area; only 1 to 3 if the hiding place is nearby. Whatever the number in the gullet the jay carries the final one in its bills. (Goodwin 1976). (Fig. 4). It was recorded in Southern England (Chettleburgh 1952) that this activity began on September 8th with 8 birds involved increasing to 35 or 40 by mid October and then gradually decreasing again, to cease altogether by November 16th. At the start of this period the birds worked from about 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. and at the peak this had become a 12 hour day, and this peak lasted for about 10 days. Each flight, collecting, concealing and returning took about 10 minutes. This rate of work would mean that 35 jays would make 21000 flights in the 10 days of peak activity, and if the average load is assumed to be 3 acorns, in that time they would have buried 63,000 of them. Jays, Woodpigeons (Columba palumbus), Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and Squirrels (Sciurus) rapidly make use of the supply of acorns, so the jays must store them. This is most effectively done in damp ground. The acorns may germinate by the spring and give young plants several inches in height by June. The cotyledons attached to these seedlings are still in good condition, they are like fresh autumn ones and remain so until the end of the summer, when the new crop is available. The jays use these acorns for feeding the well grown and fully fledged young in June and consumption by adults and young is at a rate comparable with that in the autumn. When retrieving acorns in the summer jays select green-stemmed seedlings to pull up. Seedlings of the previous year with brown stems are ignored as are the seedlings of other species. (Bossema 1968).

103 Apart from their ability to identify the current year's supply of stored acorns by the appearnace of the seedlings, jays have an accurate memory of where they have hidden their stores, for their actions appear deliberate and they go straight to the spot, dig up and fly away. Recovery begins about one week after storing them has ceased. (Chettleburgh 1952). In winter jays retrieve their acorns individually, one bird at a time, not in groups as when they are storing them. They can dig straight down through snow to buried stores. For example peanuts from a bird table buried when the ground was clear, were recovered accurately ten days later when it was covered by snow (Salfeld 1969). Some acorns are overlooked however, some are taken by other birds and by rodents, but the enormous number hidden in the ground by the jays means that even if only a small number survive this food storing by other birds is a very successful planting for the trees. The choice of site is favourable for acorns, because jays tend to bury them in damp ground in open spaces, in glades or on slopes and not under thick vegetation; this is safer for the jay as it reduces the risk of surprise by a predator and also enables the jay to see any potential robber of its store. It will drive away any other bird that it sees near and immediately removes the food and hides it elsewhere. (Goodwin 1976).

104 In October 1983 there were a few reports of Nutcrackers (Nucifraga caryocatactes), for example a small flock in a garden in Surrey, but none as far as I am aware in Cornwall. There are invasive movements of Nutcrackers similar to those of the jay in some years; the most recent was in 1968 when a few did reach Cornwall. Nutcrackers are also specialists in food storing, especially the seeds of Pine species and in some places hazel nuts. The Pine species concerned are Pinus cembra, P. sibirica, P. fumila and P. koraiensis. Their seeds have an exceptionally high calorific value, 5000 calories per gm. compared with 4000 per gm. for insects. The pine seeds may enable the Nutcracker to be independent of insect food at its early nesting time in a cold and snowy climate. The exceptional calorie value of the seeds serves the tree by enabling the Nutcracker to depend on its system of widespread storage and therefore of planting the seeds, comparable with the development of flowers by some plants to facilitate pollination by insects. Nutcrackers have anatomical, physiological and behavioural characteristics which form part of the fine seed storage system. The species territory, for example, is not only the area within which the nest is built, but also that within which each of the pair has its own individual food stores, and because each has its own food stores male Nutcrackers take a share in incubation, enabling the female to feed from her own supplies which the male would not be able to find. In all other Corvids whose behaviour is known the female alone incubates and is fed by the male (Swanberg 1951 and 1956). The number of Nutcrackers seen in the autumn of 1983 does not indicate an invasion, the food requirements of jays and nutcrackers are different and an invasion by both species together would be an unlikely coincidence. Most probably a few Nutcrackers were "caught up" among the enormous number of jays passing through the woods where they lives. Dr. Coombs

References Bossema, L. 'Recovery of Acorns in the European Jay (Garrulus glandenue) Proc. Koninkl. Nederl. Akad Wettenschaffen Zool., Series 71, No. 1, 1968. Chettleburgh, M. R., 'Observations on the Collection and Burial of Acorns by Jays in Hainault Forest', British Birds 45: 359-64, 1952. Cramp, S., Petit, A. and Sharrock, J. T. R., 'The irruption of Tits in Autumn of 1957', British Birds 53: 109-11, 1960. Delmquain, J., 'Movement of Jays in France', British Birds 29: 297-8, 1935. Geyr von Schweppenburg, H. F., 'Heimzug von Eichelhahern'. Vogelwarte 18: 120, 1956. Goodwin, D., 'Crows of the World', London, 1976. Mead, C. J., 'Big Jay Invasion', BTO News 129: 1, 1983. Phillips, M. T. T. (pers comm) 1983. Salfeld, D., 'Jays Recovering Buried Food from under Snow', British Birds 62: 238, 1969. Swanberg, P. O., 'Food Storage, Territory and Song in the Thick-Billed Nut­ cracker, Nucifraga caryocat actes L.', Bertil Hanstrom Zoological Papers in Honour of his 65th Birthday, Lund, Sweden 1956. Turcek, F. J. and Kelso, L., 'Ecological Aspects of Food Transportation and Storage in the Corvidae', Comm Behav Biol P. F. Al: 277-97, 1968. Witherby, H. F., et al., 'The Handbook of British Birds', London, 1938.

105 YELLOW-LEGGED GULLS: THEIR IDENTIFICATION AND CORNISH STATUS by S. C. Madge

In recent years the Herring Gull has increased its range to spread far enough south down the French Atlantic coast to meet northward spreading Yellow-legged Gulls, the darker-mantled, yellow-legged "Herring" Gulls of the Mediterranean forms. The two types are apparently behaving as separate species, lending concrete proof to authorities who proposed this idea as far back as 1925 (see Dwight). The relationships between all the larger gulls are very complex and this is exemplified by the close relationships between both Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Indeed, in many respects, the Yellow-legged Gull is more akin to the Lesser Black- backed Gull and Voous (1960) proposed that they be united, keeping pink-legged Herring Gulls separate from either. However the general agreement over recent decades was to keep the yellow-legged populations with Herring and have the Lesser Black-backs separate. Because of the meeting of the two Herring Gull types it has now been proposed (Nicolau-Guillaumet, 1977) that three, not two species be recognised and that the Yellow-legged Gull should be known as Larus cachinnans. This proposal has been followed by a number of continental ornithologists, notably Glutz von Blotzheim and Bauer (1983) and Oreel (1980) and is also suggested by Cramp and Simmons (1983). Assuming that British authorities will follow suit, this seems an appropriate time to draw attention to the "species", as our gull flocks are being searched for unusual species more so now than ever before. This paper summarises useful aids to identifying both adult and immature Yellow-legged Gulls, based chiefly on personal experience abroad, but also drawing from the literature. The inspiration derives from the writer's sightings of a first- winter bird at Plymouth and an adult at Looe, both in January 1983. Yellow-legged Gulls in Britain It seems that two populations of Yellow-legged Gulls turn up as visitors to Britain, the eastern Scandinavian omissus* as a rather scarce, but regular winter visitor to the east coast and the Mediterranean race michahellis which has recently been identified as regular in small numbers, chiefly in late summer in south-east England (Grant and Hume, 1981; Mallalieu and Hodge, 1981). These records followed the discovery of good numbers of Yellow-legged Gulls occurring after the breeding season, scattered along the shores of the Continental side of the (Devillers, 1983; Grant, 1983; de Heer, 1981 and Redman, 1981). * Exact status of omissus uncertain and controversial — it might be a yellow-legged population of nominate orgentatus but Devillers in Cramp and Simmons (1983) has tentatively given it full subspecies status within 'cachinnans'. Cornish occurrences There seems to be an extreme paucity of records of such birds in south-west England. Are they overlooked and more frequent than the records suggest or do they remain a very scarce visitor down here? Our gull flocks tend to be most closely scrutinised during the winter and spring, the recognised time for turning up odd, rarer gulls. Perhaps more attention should be paid to the post-breeding congregations of Herrings in the late summer and autumn periods. However having spent seemingly the whole of 1983 looking at gull flocks in south-east Cornwall I found there seems to be only three records of Herring Gulls with yellow legs for the county (and a similar number for Devon). The first two are the only ones that Penhallurick (1969) could find reference to whilst researching his county avifauna:— 1944 October 20th. Reskadinnick, Camborne. 1950 January 2nd. St. Anthony creek.

106 Details are insufficient to allocate these to a particular subspecies but they probably refer to michahellis, which was the race which fitted the 1983 bird at Looe (see below), on the assumption that omissus is unlikely to reach the extreme south-west of England.

1983 Looe bird This bird was watched during an influx of large gulls during the afternoon of January 30th, standing on the mud-flats amongst other gulls near the railway station. It could not be re-located on the following day. It was initially picked out by its darker mantle, being midway between graellsii Lesser Black-backed and argenteus Herring Gulls, or approximately the same shade of grey above as Common Gull. The legs were clearly a clean pale yellow, with no hint of orange or fleshy tones. The head and neck were pure white, with no brown streaking, and contrasting well with the darker grey upperparts. The iris was also strikingly pale, whiter than in Herrings nearby and was highlighted by a dark (presumably red) oribital ring. The bill was also much brighter than in either Herrings or Lesser Black- backs, being bright yellow, with a richer red and more extensive gonys spot. The darker mantle made the scapular crescent more conspicuous than in Herring, but the pattern of the folded primaries was identical, being fresh glossy black showing four white mirror spots along the primary length of the folded wing. It was a very smart bird indeed. In size and build it was a rather small bird, with a delicate head and bill, but could have been matched by some of the smaller (female?) Herrings nearby. The unstreaked head in winter immediately pointed the racial identity to one of the Mediterranean races of Yellow-legged Gull — omissus having a well-streaked "hood" like most Herrings and all graellsii Lesser Black-backs at this time of the year. The dark orbital ring and clear yellow legs ruled out possibility of hybrid Herring/Lesser Black-backed Gull (see Harris et al, 1978 and Vinicombe, 1981). Such hybrids are so rare that one could argue that an observer is more likely to come across a true Yellow-legged Gull rather than a Herring/Lesser Black-back hybrid. Orbital rings are orange-yellow on the hybrids and the legs have fleshy tones and may be fleshy or yellowish-flesh, although mantle colour can be very similar to that of Yellow-legged Gull. The Mediterranean races are nominate cachinnans and western michahellis, the latter being the bird turning up on continental Channel coasts. The bright bill with extensive gonys spot seems to fit michaehellis rather than cachinnans, although for field purposes the two forms are probably inseparable as they intergrade in the eastern Mediterranean. The population of the Atlantic coast of Iberia is smaller than Mediterranean michahellis and work is afoot now on studying this population, which will no doubt be described as a separate subspecies "cantabaricus". The possibility that the Looe bird, being small, was of this form was considered unlikely as small female michahellis match it closely and it is considered to be probably a resident population (Dubois, pers comm). It seems therefore that the Looe bird was most likely referrable to the western Mediterranean race, michahellis, and on size, probably a female. Identifying adults I will not repeat the description of the Looe bird here but suffice to say that most michahellis are rather bulkier and a little larger than most argenteus Herrings and Lesser Black-backs. Some very weak streaking may be visible on the nape in winter, but in the field they generally appear white-headed. Although some Herrings seem to remain white-headed through the winter, these are small, very pale-mantled birds in contrast to darker-mantled, larger, streak-hooded argentatus which join our gull flocks in winter — however the latter are still paler-mantled and have obvious pink legs in comparison to Yellow-legged Gulls. Identifying immatures Immature gulls will always be difficult, due to much racial and individual variation and the length of time it takes to reach maturity, plus the fact that work is

107 a. First-winter Herring Gull. b. First-winter Yellow-legged Gull.

c. First-winter Lesser-backed Gull.

Note lack of contrast of inner primaries of Lesser Black-back and presence of dark greater covert band, latter lacking in other two, although may occasionally be indicated in Yellow-legged, particularly towards base of wing.

108 still progressing on the Continent with this problem, both in the field and on the museum bench. No doubt during the next few years the cobwebs will gradually be blown away and there is no reason to suspect that it will be any more difficult to identify young Yellow-legged Gulls than to identify Ring-billed Gulls, and look how often those are turning up these days! However, from my 1983 experiences abroad with michahellis in Morocco in April and nominate cachinnans in December in Romania, plus correspondence with Philippe Dubois on the subject I can offer the following guidelines:— First-winter Rather different to Herring in plumage, in many respects recalling first-winter Great Black-backed Gull (paleness of head and underparts and all black bill) but structurally fairly obviously a Herring Gull type. In comparison to "average" first-winter Herring Gull, Yellow-legged is much paler on head and body, sort of mealy in tone, with sparse brown mottling on the body, particularly the flanks but very pale on head and neck, contrasting with dark eye patch (latter like young Herring) and all black bill (by mid winter most first-year Herrings have some reddish-flesh at base of bill). In flight the tail appears uniform blackish and contrasts strikingly with almost pure white "rump" (actually upper tail coverts), the tail has a fairly clean white base and the tail coverts are almost unmarked (unlike most young Herrings). The tail/rump pattern is quite evident on a flying bird and is perhaps the quickest way of picking one out, but don't forget the individual variation within Herring Gulls. The wings are brown, perhaps a shade darker than in most young Herrings, both above and below, and contrast well with relatively pale body and tail/rump pattern. However, from above the paler inner primaries, so evident on young Herrings are not quite as striking although nothing like as uniform as they are on young Lesser Black-backs. On the ground the tertials have a fringe-pattern closer to Lesser Black-backed Gull, lacking the usually prominent pale "marbling" of young Herrings (and Great Black-backs), being dark with a narrow pale border — although abrasion should be borne in mind if fringes not apparent. First-winter and first-summer Lesser Black-backed Gulls are darker above, more greyish-brown, less "warm" brown on mantle and wings and usually show a very dark band along full length of greater coverts (unlike both Herring and Yellow- legged Gulls) and of course no pale "window" on inner primaries. However first- summer Lesser Black-backs resemble first-year Yellow-legged in having very whitish head and underparts, contrasting with dark brown wings and mantle as well as very white "rump" and all dark tail, but may be distinguished by lack of warmth to brown above, being much greyer (even if no "adult" feathering has appeared on mantle) and by wing pattern mentioned above. Older birds Differences are still obscured by our lack of knowledge on racial variation, but by second-winter enough adult feathering should be apparent on mantle to show darker shade of grey of upperparts. Legs may already become yellowish in some birds, although like Lesser Black-backed this may vary individually and some individuals may not be really yellow until nearly adult. Bills of Yellow-legged Gulls tend to remain blackish for much longer than in Herrings, with a fair percentage of second-winter birds still having all blackish bills — to date I have only noted one argenteus Herring with an apparently all dark bill as late as second-winter.

109 Acknowledgements Philippe Dubois, Peter Grant and Roger Penhallurick made useful comments and answered various queries on the problem — to them, many thanks. References Cramp, S., & Simmons, K. E. L. (eds.) 1983. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 3. Oxford. Devillers, P. 1983. Yellow-legged Herring Gulls on Southern North Sea shores. British Birds 76: 191-192. Dwight, J. 1925. The gulls (Laridae) of the World. Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 52: 63-401. Glutz von Blotzheim, U. N. & Bauer, K. M. (eds.) 1982. Handbuch der Vogel Mitteleuropas. Vol. 8. Wiesbaden. Grant, P. J. 1983. Yellow-legged Herring Gulls in Britain. British Birds 76: 192-194. Grant, P. J. & Hume, R. A. 1981. Herring Gull with characters of Mediterranean race in Kent. British Birds 74: 350-351. Harris, M. P., Morley, C. & Green, G. H. 1978. Hybridization of Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls in Britain. Bird Study 25: 161-166. de Heer, P. 1981. On identification of Yellow-legged Gull and occurrence in Netherlands. Dutch Birding 2: 131-139. Mallalieu, M., & Hodge, T. N. 1981. Yellow-legged Herring Gulls in north Kent. British Birds 74: 351-352. Nicolau-Guillaumet, P. 1977. Mise au point et reflexions sur la repartition des Goelands argentes Larus argentatus de France. Alauda 45: 53-73. Oreel, G. J. 1980. Dutch Birding Association Checklist. Part 2. Dutch Birding 2: 82-104. Penhallurick, R. D. 1969. Birds of the Cornish Coast. Truro. Redman, P. S. 1981. Yellow-legged Herring Gulls in France and Britain. British Birds 74: 349-350. Vinicombe, K. 1981. Yellow-legged Herring Gulls in Britain. British Birds 74: 352-353. Voous, K. H. 1960. Atlas of European Birds. London.

110 SOME OBSERVATIONS ON GULLS AT A CORNISH RUBBISH DUMP by Keith Pellow During the autumn of 1980 I started making casual visits to the rubbish dump at Millbrook, at the head of Millbrook Lake, paying particular attention to the various gulls that regularly frequent the area. The area is doubly attractive to gulls in that a large area of water now lies next to the dump. It was on a visit I made on November 16th 1980 that I first observed a Black- Headed Gull, (Larus ridibundus), bearing metal rings. This bird had a ring on each leg and I was able to partially read one of the rings and discover that it was a foreign ringed bird. The following day I re-visited the dump and observed a Black-Headed Gull bearing a single metal ring. My curiosity aroused, I became determined to make an effort to ascertain the origins of these ringed birds. Fortunately I was able to find a location regularly used by the gulls for resting and preening and found that by using my car as a hide I was able to approach the birds close enough to be able to read the ring details through a telescope. On November 25th 1980 I had my first success when out of two ringed birds seen I was able to read the details of a ringed Black-Headed Gull, ring number 3.212.322 and discover that it originated from Holland. Spurred on by this success, I returned the following day and discovered that there were at least six different gulls bearing rings and was able to successfully read the ring of another Dutch originated bird. During my visits to the area it became obvious from some partial readings of the rings that not all of the ringed birds originated from Holland, but it was not until December 20th 1980 that I finally succeeded in reading the details of a first winter Black-Headed Gull which had been ringed in West Germany. This bird was also colour-ringed. I continued to see ringed birds at the dump throughout the rest of the winter until March 5th 1981 when I saw four birds with rings. It had not been possible to read the full details of all the ringed birds seen during the winter but from partial readings it was possible to identify the country of origin of a number of them. I was thus able to say that during the winter of 1980-81 visiting the Millbrook Dump had been 4 birds originating from Holland, 2 from West Germany, 1 from East Germany, 1 from Great Britain and 1 from Finland. I continued my observations throughout the following 1981-82 winter and again noted ringed gulls from September 21st 1981 until March 7th 1982. During this time I was able to say that there had been 3 ringed birds originating from Holland, 1 from East Germany and 1 from Finland. However, most interesting was a partial reading of a Dutch ringed bird which frustratingly I could not read, 3.212 . . ., and I began to suspect that perhaps some of the wintering Black-Headed Gull in the Millbrook area did so on a regular basis. My suspicions were confirmed the following winter when on October 8th 1982 I re-read the Dutch ringed bird, 3.212.322 and was able to prove that at least some of the wintering Black-Headed Gulls at Millbrook did so on a repeat basis. I continued to observe Dutch ringed 3.212.322 throughout the remainder of that winter and can confirm that it again returned to Millbook for the 1983-84 winter, being recorded on October 8th 1983. A full list of 'recoveries' of ringed Black-Headed Gulls seen at Millbrook since 1980 are given as follows:

111 1. 3.212.322 ringed on 27.05.74. at Vinkeveense Plassen, Netherlands as nestling. Seen 25.11.80-04.03.81, 05.10.82-07.01.83, 07-15.10.83, 25.11.83 and 30.12.83. There is no doubt that this bird has returned to Millbrook each winter since 1980. 2. 3.300.618 ringed on 26.07.79 at R.W.Z.I. West Hilversum, Netherlands as 1st Cal. Year. Seen 26.11.80. 3. 5.235.272 ringed on 07.06.80 at Lehrte, Hanover, W. Germany as nestling. Seen 20.12.80. 4. 3.256.398 ringed on 09.06.77 at Bij Ritthem, Zeeland, Netherlands as nestling. Seen 16.02.81. 5. 5.235.064 ringed on 07.06.80 at Lehrte, Hanover, W. Germany as nestling. Seen 05.03.81. This bird was ringed on the same date as 3. above and at the same location. See the 1981 Cornish Bird Report for details of another bird ringed a week earlier at the same location seen at Par by F. M. Couch. 6. 3.286.440 ringed on 25.05.78 at Europoort, Zuid Holland, Netherlands as nestling. Seen on 16.03.81. 7. 3.330.935 ringed on 30.05.81 at Europoort, Zuid Holland, Netherlands as nestling. Seen on 10.10.81. 8. 3.289.435 ringed on 09.06.79 at Nek Schellinkhout, Noord Holland as nestling. Seen on 12.12.81. 9. 3.358.723 ringed on 09.06.82 at Wormer-En Jisperveld, Noord Holland as nestling. Found dead on 08.10.82. 10. 3.309.439 ringed on 07.04.80 at S. Graveland Zuid, Noord Holland as 2nd Cal. Year. Seen on 07.01.83. 11. 3.309.913 ringed on 04.05.80 at S. Graveland Zuid, Noord Holland as 2nd Cal. Year. Seen on 8-13.10.83 and 27.11.83, and 29-30.12.83. 12. 3.286.096 ringed on 01.06.79 at Europoort, Zuid Holland, Netherlands as nestling. Seen on 08.10.83. 13. 3.300.616 ringed on 26.07.79 at R.W.Z.I. West Hilversum, Noord Holland as 1st Cal. Year. Seen on 10.10.83. Compare with 2. above. 14. A colour marked bird had been caught and ringed at a rubbish tip near Leigh, Lanes, on 23.02.81 as an adult. Seen on 12.10.83. 15. 3.309.349 ringed on 29.03.80 at S. Graveland Zuid, Noord Holland as second year. Seen on 30.12.83.

112 It will be noted that the majority of these 'recoveries' are of birds ringed in the Netherlands either as nestlings or during the breeding season and it would therefore seem that quite a large proportion of the wintering gulls at Millbrook do originate from that country. Out of a total of 40 birds bearing rings of which the country of origin was known, 16 or 40% were of Dutch origin. It is also interesting to note that taking the same guidelines only 15% were of British ringed birds. In addition to these 'recoveries' relating to Black-Headed Gulls, there has, since 1980 been observations of other species of gulls either bearing rings or having been colour-marked. Details of these observations are as follows:— 1. 10.10.81 Lesser Black-Backed Gull ringed as nestling on 23.07.81 at Isle of May, Fife, Scotland. 2. 11.09.82 Herring Gull colour ringed on 04.11.81 at Bishopbriggs, Glasgow, Scotland. This bird was seen again on 30.12.83. 3. 12.10.83 Herring Gull ringed and colour ringed as nestling on 27.06.83 at Skomer Island, Dyfed, Wales. Seen again on 30.12.83. The re-sighting of the colour ringed Herring Gull from Glasgow on the 30th December 1983 came as a surprise as I did not expect to find any evidence of the larger gulls returning to the site in subsequent years and the further sighting of the Skomer ringed bird on the same day tended to show that at least some of the larger gulls remain at Millbrook for a substantial part of the winter. When comparing the two sets of 'recoveries' it is interesting to note that the Black-Headed Gull appears to disperse generally in a westerly direction after the breeding season whereas the larger gulls would seem to disperse in a definite southerly direction. To date no sightings have been made of foreign ringed larger gulls whereas a large proportion of the Black-Headed Gulls seem to originate from the Continent. Unfortunately I am now unable to visit Millbrook Dump on such a regular basis. I hope that the above observations will show how interesting regular watching at similar sites can be and I am certain that if it was done, even more interesting sightings would result, leading to a better understanding of gull movements in the County.

A STUDY OF ACROCEPHALUS WARBLERS AT MARAZION MARSH 1983 (Long Rock Reed-bed 50 08'N, 5 30'W) BIRDS RINGED SEDGE WARBLER Ringed from previous years. Ringed as July August September Total Adult Juvenile Adult 4 10 14 1 Juvenile 39 106 5 150 REED WARBLER Adult 20 7 27 11 Juvenile 67 79 155 No warblers were ringed during the Spring due to cold wet weather. The autumn, by contrast was very suitable for trapping, with many calm sunny days in

113 July and August. Numbers of birds caught were very low compared with 1982 and the total of 164 Sedge Warblers ringed was about half the number trapped the previous year. Clear nights probably allowed migrants to continue flying south without stopping. No 'falls' were detected during the autumn and I was only aware of a real change of birds from elsewhere by the trapping of five Aquatic Warblers in early August. Reed Warblers had a slightly less than average breeding season with 155 juveniles trapped. The twenty-seven adults ringed was about average over the last ten years. Low numbers ringed in September was due to the stormy weather which dominated most of the month. Continuous gales early in the month appeared to cause most Acro's to leave the reed-beds and very few were noted during the rest of the month. Very strong east/northeast winds in late July and early August brought five Aquatic Warblers as follows: One 10th August. One 11th August. Three 13th August. None were retrapped and it is of interest that although ringing was continued at a high level, no more Acquatics were caught. RETRAPS FROM PREVIOUS YEARS The Sedge Warbler was ringed as a juvenile on 13th August 1981. The oldest Reed Warbler was ringed as a juvenile on 18th August 1978.

RECOVERIES AND CONTROLS SEDGE WARBLER A juvenile ringed Long Rock 2nd September 1979 was controlled at Lodmoor, Weymouth, Dorset 22nd August 1982. 223 kms 1085 days. A juvenile ringed Wick, Christchurch, Dorset 14th August 1983 was controlled Long Rock 21st August 1983. 272 kms 7 days. A quick movement west. REED WARBLER A juvenile ringed Long Rock 3rd July 1982 was found killed by traffic at Marazion Marsh 26th June 1983. 1 km 358 days. A juvenile ringed Long Rock 9th August 1983 was killed by a cat at Lizard Village, Cornwall 23rd August 1983. 29 kms 14 days. Perhaps a lighthouse attraction was also involved in this recovery. A juvenile ringed Long Rock 25th July 1981 was controlled at Par Beach, Cornwall 24th August 1983. 63 kms 760 days. An adult ringed Long Rock 8th August 1983 was controlled at Par Beach, Cornwall 27th August 1983. 63 kms 19 days. The next two movements are without precedent:— A juvenile (A011762) ringed Long Rock 14th August 1981 was controlled at Le Foulon, Guernsey, Channel Isles, 8th May 1983. 223 kms 632 days.

114 A juvenile (A011765) ringed Long Rock 14th August 1981 was controlled at Vale Marais, Guernsey, Channel Isles, 3rd May 1983. 224 kms 627 days. Two young birds ringed at 06.00 hours on the same day have each made two trips to Africa, and when trapped in May, on Guernsey, nearly two years later were only one kilometre apart. Was it coincidence — we will never know. I do know that it was the ringing highlight of the year for me! **************

Grateful thanks to Lord St. Levan for permission to trap birds at Long Rock reed-bed. Bernard Pattenden

RINGING REPORT 1983

During the year a total of 3862 birds of 70 species were reported as ringed in the County. Of these 3420 were full grown and 442 were pulli. Fulmar, Manx Shearwater, Spotted Crake, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Black Redstart and Icterine Warbler were all ringed for the first time since the inception of these summaries in 1979. Regretably the Devon and Cornwall Wader Ringing Group did not operate in the County in 1983 — due mainly to a lack of interest and support over the last few years. Consequently the number of waders trapped was very small. The total of 325 Swallows ringed was pathetic, but the main trapping area at Par was used by a much smaller roost than for several years. Despite this, three more fascinating recoveries, including two African, appear in this report. Acrocephalus Warblers were ringed in average numbers, despite poor mist- netting weather from the end of August on. Sylvia Warblers were ringed in good quantities, but Chiffchaffs were very scarce. All tits were caught in very good numbers with Willow again outnumbering Marsh. Contributors: S. M. Christophers — 1125 birds of 44 species (St. Columb and Par) F. M. Couch — 656 birds of 33 species (Bodmin, Par and Penhale) N. B. Exelby — 66 birds of 14 species (Mullion) A. W. G. John — 18 birds of 9 species (Crantock) F. H. C. Kendall — 814 birds of 38 species (Bude) D.M.&L. F.C.Love — 32 birds of 12 species () S. C. Madge — 45 birds of 11 species (Sheviock) J. A. d'E Miller — 26 birds of 5 species (Upper Fowey Valley) B. Pattenden — 596 birds of 23 species (Marazion) R. J. Salmon — 39 birds of 9 species () M. W. Tyler — 449 birds of 33 species (Camelford)

115 RECOVERIES Cormorant Ring number L03273 ringed as a nestling at Puffin Island, Anglesey, Wales on 11th June 1983 was seen at Millbrook Lake on 25th and 27th November 1983. Ring number L03277 ringed at the same time and place was recorded at Millbrook Lake on 25th and 27th November 1983. Dunlin Ring number NB16716 ringed as a juvenile at Hayle Estuary on 1st September 1977 was controlled at Point of Air, Clwyd, Wales on 1st August 1981. Swallow Ring number 2655755 ringed as a first year female at Lussat, Creuse, France on 10th September 1980 was controlled at Par Beach on 4th September 1981. Ring number B683894 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 24th August 1982 was found dead having fallen into a well at Assa Tiemala, Sandare, Mali on 11th May 1983. Ring number C001047 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 20th August 1983 was found dead (road casualty) at Figtree Road, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe on 11th November 1983. Robin A juvenile ringed at Bude on 17th July 1983 was found dead (road casualty) at Wrafton, Braunton, Devon on 30th August 1983. Redwing Ring number BW 13494 ringed at Minsterworth, Gloucester, on 6th November 1974 was found dead at Port Isaac on 12th January 1982. Blue Tit Ring number B947441 ringed as a juvenile at St. Columb Major on 27th July 1983 was found dead after colliding with a window at Bodmin on 21st October 1983. Starling Ring number 10Z48191 ringed as a first year bird at Uitbergen, Oost- Vlaanderen, Belgium on 24th October 1979 was found freshly dead at Davidstow on 5th January 1983. For further recoveries see: Observations on gulls at a Cornish Rubbish Tip (page 111). A Study of Acrocephalus Warblers at Marazion Marsh 1983 (page 113). - Spoonbill (page 19).

116 SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES RINGED 1983 Cumulative 1979-1983 Adult Pulli Total Adult Pulli Total Fulmar 3 — 3 3 3 Manx Shearwater 1 — 1 1 1 Gannet — — — 2 — 2 Mute Swan — — — 46 46 Shelduck — — — 8 8 Sparrowhawk — — — 2 2 4 Buzzard — 3 3 — 14 14 Kestrel — 14 14 — 20 20 Water Rail — — — 3 — 3 Spotted Crake 1 — 1 1 — 1 Oystercatcher — — — 348 6 354 Ringed Plover — — — 191 — 191 Lapwing — 3 3 21 3 24 Knot — — — — 4 Sanderling — — — 21 — 21 Curlew Sandpiper — — — 1 — 1 Dunlin 3 — 3 885 — 885 Snipe 2 — 2 3 — 3 Black-tailed Godwit — — — 1 — 1 Bar-tailed Godwit — — 1 1 Whimbrel — — — 4 4 Curlew — 73 73 Spotted Redshank — — — 7 — 7 Redshank — — — 297 — 297 Greenshank 1 — 1 42 — 42 Turnstone — — — 42 42 Black-headed Gull 3 3 7 7 Herring Gull 1 — 1 5 — 5 Guillemot — — — 24 24 Razorbill — — — 1 1 Woodpigeon — — — 1 4 5 Collared Dove — — — 11 2 13 Cuckoo 1 — 1 1 1 2 Barn Owl — 21 21 7 83 90 Little Owl — — — 1 2 3 Tawny Owl — 4 4 9 8 17 Short-eared Owl — — — 1 1 Long-eared Owl — — — 1 — 1 Swift 2 — 2 3 3 Kingfisher 1 — 1 2 — 2 Green Woodpecker — — — 2 — 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 — 1 1 — 1 Skylark — — — — 3 3 Sand Martin 5 — 5 34 — 34 Swallow 291 34 324 2044 296 2340 House Martin 4 — 4 12 22 34 Tree Pipit 1 — — 4 7 11 Meadow Pipit 3 4 7 6 11 17 Rock Pipit — — — 5 5 Yellow Wagtail 2 — 2 31 — 31 Grey Wagtail 1 4 5 9 31 40 Pied Wagtail 2 5 7 127 41 168 Dipper 5 21 26 19 75 94 Wren 102 7 109 475 16 491 Dunnock 86 — 86 474 12 486

117 1983 Cumulative 1979-1983 Adult Pulli Total Adult Pulli Total

Robin 138 7 145 568 32 600 Black Redstart 1 — 1 1 — 1 Redstart — — — 2 2 Whinchat — — — 9 9 Stonechat 5 — 5 28 7 35 Wheatear — — — 182 116 298 Blackbird 91 3 94 488 67 555 Fieldfare — — — 2 2 Song Thrush 32 3 35 138 18 156 Redwing 1 — 1 95 — 95 Mistle Thrush — — — 2 3 5 Celttis Warbler 6 — 6 17 — 17 Grasshopper Warbler 6 — 6 19 — 19 Aquatic Warbler 5 — 5 9 — 9 Sedge Warbler 331 — 331 1684 — 1684 Reed Warbler 256 4 260 1355 4 1359 Icterine Warbler 1 — 1 1 — 1 Lesser Whitethroat 5 — 5 11 — 11 Whitethroat 53 — 53 166 166 Garden Warbler 33 — 33 90 — 90 Blackcap 80 — 80 245 — 245 Chiffchaff 87 — 87 459 8 467 Willow Warbler 313 4 317 894 60 954 Pallow's Warbler — — — 1 — 1 Goldcrest 51 — 51 351 — 351 Firecrest 6 — 6 35 — 35 Spotted Flycatcher — 10 10 15 37 52 Pied Flycatcher 4 12 16 6 44 50 Long Tailed Tit 102 — 102 282 — 282 Marsh Tit 22 — 22 87 14 101 Willow Tit 24 — 24 67 8 75 Coal Tit 15 — 15 74 34 108 Blue Tit 507 219 726 2473 787 3260 Great Tit 144 35 179 629 93 722 Nuthatch 1 8 9 7 16 23 Treecreeper 11 — 11 42 — 42 Jay 1 — 1 5 — 5 Magpie 1 — 1 6 27 33 Jackdaw 7 5 12 18 8 26 Rook 2 — 2 3 — 3 Carrion Crow — — — 3 4 7 Starling 178 — 178 697 — 697 House Sparrow 73 — 73 172 1 173 Hawfinch — — — 1 — 1 Chaffinch 58 — 58 695 20 715 Brambling — — 4 — 4 Greenfinch _88 10 98 618 20 638 Goldfinch 14 — 14 31 9 40 Linnet 24 — 24 47 15 62 Bullfinch 61 — 61 234 3 237 Yellowhammer 17 2 19 73 7 80 Cirl Bunting — — — 3 3 Reed Bunting 3_6 — 36 182 4 186 Corn Bunting — — — 1 21 22 Totals 3420 442 3862 18649 2142 20791

118 THE SOCIETY'S RULES (Current from 14th April, 1984) Rule 1. (Name) The Society shall be called "The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society". Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be:— (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation. Rule 3. (Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honorary Officers; President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officer, Solicitor, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor, Officer for Youth and Education, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society. Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership, and any person who has attained his or her 18th birthday for Full Membership. Junior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society, but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Committee or Officers of the Society. Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a General Meeting may, upon the proposition and seconding by any members, elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Society without regard to the actual membership or non-membership of such person, who is deemed worthy of such election. Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required. The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eligible for re­ election. New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Committee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4.

The Executive Committee shall have authority to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person has contravened any requirements contained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Committee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society. Rule 4. (Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members, payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January. But any member who pays the first subscription after 30th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members. Rule 5. (Management) The Secretaries shall keep minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature as will keep members informed of the Society's activities.

119 The Treasurer shall present a Statement of Accounts at the Annual Meeting each year. There shall be an Executive Committee consisting of the Officers and nine ordinary members. A nomination in writing containing the name and address of the member proposed for election to the Executive Committee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder must have been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual General Meeting. This Committee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annual Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Committee for more than three consecutive years. The Executive Committee shall delegate five Officers — Chairman, Vice Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team — to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Society's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Committee for confirmation of their actions. Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary, but not less than twice a year, one of which shall be the Annual Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the President and Chairman. A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Committee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such appliciation to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of Rules may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the precise alteration has been shown in advance on the Agenda, and that the alteration be passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. Rule 8. This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting at which business is transacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamation or subordination, prior notice must have been given under Rule 7. For the purpose of this Rule, Members may vote by post. Rule 9. The property and effects of the Society shall be vested in not less than four members as Trustees to be appointed at a General Meeting. They shall have power to invest money and adopt such measures as may appear to them necessary in the interests of the Society, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee. Each Trustee shall remain in office until death, resignation or removal and replacement by a General Meeting. In the event of the death, resignation or removal of any of the Trustees, the Executive Committee shall if necessary fill the vacancy subject to confirmation at the next General Meeting.

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