Herefordshire Ornithological Club

,I

ANNUAL REPORT 1990

No. 10 Vol. 4 ~.50

III HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

No.lOVoIA

OFFICERS AND COMMI'ITEE 1990

President J.L. FOX

J1c'e -Presidents:- P.W. HINDE, M.B.O.U., Dr. C.W. WALKER, M.C. AG. FYSHE

CiJainnan.·­ AJ. SMITH

Hon. Seaetan~'­ LB. EVANS 12 Brockington Drive, Tupsley, Hereford. Tel: (0432)265509

Hon. D-easurer:­ LT. STONE Chantries, Grosmont, Abergavenny.

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

Hon. Field Secret~Jj;'­ K.A. MASON

Hon.Editor:- A MARCHANT

Hon. Bu//etinEdiior:­ P. GARDNER

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

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

2. OBJECTS. The objects of the Club shall be (a) to further the study of birds in the field, and (b) to assist in their preservation.

3. MEMBERSHIP. The Club shall consist of a President, a Chairman, a Secretary, a Field Secretary, a Treasurer, an Editor, a Recorder, and Ten Committee Members and Ordinary Members. The President and the Chairman to retire after serving a term of three years. The Secretaries, the Treasurer, the Recorder and the Editor shall be elected annually. The three senior of the ten Ordinary Members of the Committee shall retire annually and they shall not be eligible for re-election for a period of 12 months. The Officers and Ordinary Members of the Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and the Officers shall be eligible for re-election. Nominations for the Committee must be received in writing by the Hon. Secretary by February 14th.

4. CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Any members failing to support and keep this law shall be required to resign. Members shall not divulge to unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and/or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of the Club.

5. SUBSCRIPTIONS. (a) Junior members, over 12 but under 18 years ofage, £3. Ordinary members, 18 years and over, £5. A married couple, £7.50. Any additional members of a household £ I.

Subscriptions are payable on January Ist or on election to membership. Corporate Members: Kindred bodies, Schools, etc. Subscription £5 per annum.

Honorary Members: As approved by the majority present at the Annual General Meeting. (b) All subscriptions subsequent to those paid on admission shall be due on January Ist each year. Where a member has been elected on or after Ist September in any year, there will be no further liability to subscribe in the year immediately following that of his or her election. Any member whose subscription is six months in arrears shall cease to receive the Club's publications and, should the subscription not be paid by December 31 st, his or her name shall be deleted from the list of Members.

6. MANAGEMENT. The Secretary shall keep Minutes of the Meetings and prepare such literature as shall keep the Members informed of the Club's activities. 7. MEETINGS shall be held as often as deemed desirable at the discretion of the Officers. 8. REPORT. There shall be an Editorial Committee of at least three Members including the Secretary, appointed at an ordinary Committee Meeting. These shall prepare and present an Annual Report and such special reports as may be decided upon. 9. ALTERATIONS OF RULES. An alteration of the Rules may be made only if proposed at one meeting, printed on the agenda for the following meeting, and . passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 453

HEREFORDSHIRE NATURE TRUST NEST BOX SCHEME - 1990 RESULTS C. W. SHELDRAKE

Recording took place at 22 sites

1990 1989 Nests Fledged Nests Fledged

Pied Flycatcher 212 790 198 %8 BlueTit 181 1070 191 1384 GreatTit 78 498

1990 BREEDING STATISTICS Pied Flycatcher BlueTit Great Tit Average clutch size 6.03 ( 6.70) 7.74 ( 9.80) 7.82 ( 7.98) % hatched 74.70 (84.16) 82.50 (80.80) 89.80 (84.60) % fledged 82.50 (85.40) 92.40 (98.60) 90.80 (89.20) % overall 61.70 (72.40) 76.30 (79.70) 81.60 (75.50) Fledged/pair 3.72 ( 4.80) 5.91 ( 7.83) 6.30 ( 6.03)

1989 results shown in brackets.

The % of boxes used has continued to rise. Reports came in dur­ ing the breeding season that the caterpillars were early and suitable food was in short supply for the young birds. Whilst the Great Tits came through sucessfully Pied Flycatchers and Blue Tits were well down.

Our results compared favourably with those of RSPB reserve at Nagshead, Gloucestershire. 454 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

EDITORIAL

This is the fortieth annual Bird Report to be presented to the Members since the formation of the Herefordshire Ornithological Club in April 1950. It has again been a year of mixed fortunes for a number of species. Sand Martins appear to have maintained the recent improvement in their numbers and House Martins too have shown a slight increase. On the debit side Tree Pipits were again scarce and Lapwing, Snipe and Curlew together with Corn Bunting just managed to survive as breeding species within the County. A total of 147 species was recorded during the year and although no new species were added to the County bird list a number of rare irregular visitors to the County were recorded. The first of these was a Jack Snipe at Mathon on January 28th. A Kittiwake was found dead at Dinmore on February 5th and a Shelduck was seen on floodwater at Lugg meadows on 9th. Another Jack Snipe was at Mathon on 18th, a Red-breasted Merganser at Sink Green on 23rd and another Shelduck at Hampton Bishop on the same day. A Long-eared Owl was found trapped in wire at Allensmore on March 12th and taken to Miss Bayliss's bird hospital. A Bittern was flushed at Mathon GP on 17th and the Long-eared Owl, hav­ ing fully recovered from its ordeal, was released at Allensmore on 21st. A Wood Sandpiper was noted at Marden on April 9th and a Red Kite over Goodrich on 24th. May was generally a quiet month until 21st when a Black Tern was at Eywood NR, a typical date for this species to pass through the County in spring. Quail were calling at Durlow on 29th and Bromsash on 31st. A Grasshopper Warbler at Lyepole on June 2nd was only a one day stop-over. A single Redshank was at Criftin Ford on 14th, two at Eywood NR on 17th and two at Castieton on 20th. Another quail was heard calling at Cusop on 20th, a Common Tern was at Bodenham GP on 26th and a second Grasshopper Warbler at Burrington on 28th was, like the first, .iust a one day bird. With the increasing breeding success of the Scottish Ospreys this species has now become an annual passage mi­ grant through the County and the first this year was at Lugg Mills on July 8th. The second Red Kite of the year was at Turner's Boat on 9th and an Oystercatcher was at Bredwardine on 30th. A Quail calling at Llangarron on August 2nd was the fourth report for the year. Single Greenshank were at Mathon on 6th and Castleton on 18th/19th and at the latter locality there was an Oystercatcher on 18th and an Osprey on 19th. Also on 19th there were two Ringed P~overs at Mathon GP. A Common Tern was at Hartleton on 23rd, another Ringed Plover at Holme Marsh on 25th' and a Red Kite was noted over Nupend NR on 25thl26th. The month ended with a Greenshank at Sink Green and Corncrake at Lulham on 31st. Greenshank passage continued during September with three at Castleton on 2nd, one at Hampton BiShop on 4th and two there on 8th, two beside Her~ford Wye on 10th arid 13th and a single on 27th. The highlight of October was a count of 21 Mandarins at Eastnor Castle Lake on 5th. A 'yellow-legged' Herring Gull was noted at Stretton Sugwas on 8th. November was uneventful and the year ended with two typical winter species, a Firecrest at Bringsty Common on 14th and a 'ringtail' Hen Harrier at Mordiford on 24th. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 455

PRINTING OF THE REPORT. The Committee on behalf of the Members wish to thank Chadds of Hereford, and Mr. John Chadd in particular, for their donation towards the printing costs of thIs Report.

The printing of this year's Report has been undertaken by Michael (Mike) J. Barrington of Leominster. Mike has been involved with the printing of the Report on two previous occasions, firstly with Orphans Press, Leominster and most recently with Wye Valley Printers.

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

CLUB ACTIVITIES. Club outings were held during the year at Talybont, Brierley Court, (twice), Ashleworth and Twyning Hams, Letton and Castleton Wye, Criftin Ford, Whitcliffe Ludlow and Belvide Reservoir, Garnons Estate, Holme Lacy area, Harley Dingle, Haugh Wood (twice), Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (boat trip), The Doward, Wall Hills Ledbury, Gadbury Bank (Nightingale meeting), Bryngwyn and Rhosgoch, Ewyas Harold and Merbach, Llyn Hilyn, Pecket Stone (Nightjar meet­ ings), Olchon Valley, Bringsty Common, Upton Warren, Glasbury Wye and Llan Bwch Llyn, South Coast weekend, Stapleton Castle, Shaky Bridge Llandrindod and Malvern Hills. Thanks go to all Landowners who granted us permission to visit their properties and to all leaders of the various meetings.

Indoor meetings held in the Percival Hall, Hereford (Jan. - March), in­ cluded a Members' evening and illustrated talks by Jerry Lewis, 'Bird Ringing', and David Boag, 'The Atlantic Puffin'. A move to the Hereford Teachers' Centre for indoor meetings proved worthwhile with a notice­ able increase in attendance. Sept. - Dec. speakers were Sally Pittam, 'Birds of Prey Hospital', Bob Haycock, 'Llangorse Lake'; Karen Brad­ bury, 'Work of RSPB Investigations Section' and Carl Nicholson, 'Mans Tribute to Birds'. Thanks go to all the speakers.

In addition to the above meetings a social evening was held at The Forge and Ferry Inn, Fownhope to mark the Club's 40th Anniversary.

As is customary each year the Club was on hand to assist the RSPB in the showing of their latest films at the Shirehall, Hereford.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. Thanks go to Mr. and Mrs. P. Gardner for preparing the Club Bulletins, to Mr. T. Davies for auditing the accounts and to the Editorial Sub-Committee, Mr. P. W. Hinde, Dr. C. W. Walker, Mr. A. J. Smith, Dr. D. G. Boddington and the Secretary for their assistance and guidance.

The club also extends its thanks to John Reaney SWLA of Brighton for the cover drawing and the illustration of Mandarin ducks.

Finally thanks go to all those members and other persons whose Uln­ tributions have made this Report possible.

A. Marchant. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

RINGING REPORT FOR 1990 Complete details of their ringing activities in Herefordshire have been supplied by D.G.B., F.B., S.G.D., P.G., J.L, A.M., S.l.T. and R.W.; J.F. has supplied Pied Flycatcher details from south of the County and Robert Hall similar details from. Whitfield. The Severn Estuary Gull Group has supplied both ringing and recovery details. During 1990 D.G.B. has been responsible for ringing at Bockle­ ton (Motlin's Hole), Brockhampton (Bromyard), Gatley, Mowley, Shobdon, Titley, Yatton and some of Wapley Hill. S.G.D. has ringed a wide variety of sp

The following are selected from 'Identified' previously ringed birds of all species. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery data on the second. Unless otherwise stated birds were released alive. M- Male F- Female Pul - Nesting Juv - Juvenile

Ad - Adult PG - Fully Grown B- Breeding X- Found Dead HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 457

BLACK-HEADED GULL AT48346 05.1287 Les Ismes, Narnar,Belgium 13.11.89 Stretton 8ugwas, Herefs. (8.G.D.) 549Krn..

EN82168 27.1286 Stretton Sugwas. (8.G.D.) 18.05.90 Rostock, German Dem. Rep. 1143Krn.

EN82376 17.01.87 Stretton Sugwas. (S.G.D.) 04.06.90 Saare, Estonia. 1761Krn

EN82028 15.02.86 8tretton Sugwas. (S.G.D.) 10.08.90 Rochester, Kent. 247Krn.

LESSER BLACK-HEADED GULL

GG50233 04.07.87 Walney, Cumbria. 07.08.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 223Krn.

GH35380 25.06.86 AatHolm,Glamorgan. 07.08.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 79Krn.

0172863 06.07.83 Skomer Island, Dyfed. 07.08.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 178Krn.

0071868 22.07.66 Skokholm, Dyfed. 07.08.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 173Krn.

0071796 08.06.84 AatHolm. 11.09.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 79Krn.

0038050 06.07.85 Walney. 11.09.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 22.1Krn.

0076005 13.07.82 Craigleath, Lothian. 11.09.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 444Krn.

0076008 10.07.69 Walney. 11.09.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 22.1Krn.

GH18922 26.04.80 Holm, Orkney. 08.10.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 761Krn. 458 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

GG07942 09.07.82 Isle of May, Fife. 08.10.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 458Km.

GH57854 18.04,89 FlatHolm. 05.11.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 79Km.

GG49120 10.07.88 Orfodness, Suffolk. 20.11.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 298Km.

GP76103 17.01.87 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 05.03.90 Clevelys, Lancs. 206Km.

GG39538 06.12.86 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 05.04.90 Milford Haven, Dyfed. 161Km.

GG57856 05.09.88 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 25.07.90 Preesall, Lancs. 204Km.

GG60136 22.11.88 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 08.09.90 St. Annes, Lancs. 188Km.

GG39737 10.11.87 Stretton Sugwas. (S.E.G.G.) 09.12.90 Farmoor Reservoir, Oxon. I04Km.

Also 8 others moving between Stretton Sugwas and Gloucester.

SAND MARTIN

1533017 21.01.88 Mare de Gainthe Djodj, Fleuve, Senegal.

04.08.88 Stretton Sugwas. (S.G.D.) 30.06.89 Stretton Sugwas. (S.G.D.) 4139Km.

F404178 28.05.89 Radley, Oxfordshire. 2906.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.0.D.) 114Km.

F279598 15.07.89 Kidderminster. 29.06.

F581267 29.06.90 Stretton Sugwas. (S.G.D.) 14.07.

DIPPER

RV75185 Pul. 06.05.90 Pontrilas, Herefs. (S.J.T.) 31.08.90 Aberedw, Builth Wells. (S.J.T.) WREN

7R2271 Juv. 16.07.90 Bringsty Common Herefs. (S.G.D.) 08.10.90 St. Albans Head, Dorset. 1SOKrn. PIED FLYCATCHER

306 Adult birds (192F, 114M, 1.6:1) were handled in Herefordshire in 1990 of which 212 (132F, 80M, 1.6:1) were newly ringed and 94 (60F, 34M, 1.8:1) had already been ringed in previous years, 73 (43F, 30M, 1.4:1) in Herefordshire and 21 (17F, 4M) elsewhere (Salop 8, Glos. 6, Powys 4, Clwyd 1, Devon 1, Gwent I) + IF - origin as yet unknown. In addition 4 (all female) previously ringed in Herefordshire were found elsewhere (Salop 2, Devon 1, Powys 1).

Of the 77 (73 + 4) ringed in Herefordshire and recovered somewhere 31 had been ringed as Pulli and later had their sex ascertained as 20F and llM (1.8:1). 1 had been ringed in each of years 1983,1984 and 1985,2 in 1986, 10 in 1987,8 in 1988and8in 1989.

Analysis of site changes in Pulli retrapped at breeding sites showed that 14 returned to their site of birth (7F, 7M 1:1) and 19 had moved elsewhere (BF, 6M,2.1:1). Site changes in Adults were shown by 7 (SF, 2M) and 35 (21F, 14M, 1.5:1) returned to their site oforiginal ringing as Adults.

B217755 Pul (F) 14.06.83 Moccas Park, Herefs. (AM.) Ad B 02.06.90 Moccas Park. (AM.)

B426750 Pul (F) 11.06.83 Court Wood, Bredwardine, Herefs. (AM.) Ad B 28.05.90 Moccas Park. (AM.) (Moccas '87, '88, '89)

8869932 Pul (F) 24.06.84 Shobdon, Herefs. (D.G.B.) Ad B 13.05.90 Mary Knoll, Herefs. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '85;87, '88, '89)

C056791 Pul (F) 09.06.84 Wrekin, Salop. (W.AH.) Ad B 25.05.90 Motlin's Hole, Bockleton. (D.G.B) (Motlin's Hole '86, '88)

C295254 Ad M 17.06.84 Mary Knoll. (CJ.M.) B 05.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '87, '88)

C29SOlO Pul(M) 16.06.85 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) Ad B 03.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '89)

C525033 Ad M 01.06.87 Paradise. Presteigne. (S.G.D.) B 29.05.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.) (Paradise '88)

C525036 Pul(M) 11.06.87 Paradise. (S.G.D.) Ad B 29.05.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.) (Paradise '89) 460 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

C525108 Ad M 01.06.87 Paradise. (S.G.D.) B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.) (Paradise '88)

C525132 Pul (F) 08.06.87 Paradise. (S.G.D.) Ad B 23.05.90 Newcastle. Clun. Salop. (W.and C.) (Paradisre '88)

C525182 Pul (F) 08.06.87 Paradise. (S.G.D.) Ad B 23.05.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

C525193 Pul (F) 86.06.87 Paradise. (S.G.D.) Ad B 02.06.90 Moccas Park. (AM.)

C525231 Pul (F) 04.06.87 Galley, Herefs. (D.G.B) Ad B 27.05.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88)

C525317 Pul(M) 07.06.87 Moccas Park. (AM.) Ad B 02.06.90 Moccas Park. (AM.)

C525399 Ad F 30.06.88 Moccas Park. (AM.) B 11.05.90 Moccas Park. (AM.) (Moccas '89)

C525890 Pul (F) 07.06.87 Moccas Park. (AM.) Ad B 02.06.90 Moccas Park. (AM.)

C615904 Ad F 10.06.86 Wigmore, Herefs. (M.N.) B 01.06.90 Wigmore.(J.I.) (Wigmore '88)

C625500 Pul (F) 17.06.86 OkehamplOn, Devon. (H.A.W.) Ad B 11.05.90 Moccas Park. (AM.) 165Km.

C895183 Pul(M) 14.06.87 Llancillo, Pontrilas, Herefs. (L.R.G.) Ad B 10.06.90 Whitfield, Herefs. (Whitfield '89)

EOOH72 Ad F 17.05.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) B 25.05.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88)

EOOO181 Ad M 31.05.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) B 04.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88, '89)

EOOJ183 Ad F 31.05.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) B 27.05.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88, '89)

EOOOl86 Ad F 31.05.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) B 04.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88, '89) HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 461

EOO)828 Pul (M) 07.06.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) Ad B 04.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.)

EOO)930 Pul (F) 12.07.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) Ad B 13.05.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.)

EOOI648 Pul (F) 14.06.86 Whitfield. (C.J.M.) Ad B 02.06.90 Moccas Park. (AM.) (Moccas '89)

E001951 Pul (M) 31.05.87 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) Ad B 05.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Mary Knoll '88, 'S9)

E157578 Ad F 29.05.S9 Llangollen, Clwyd. (J.A.L.R.) B 19.05.90 Wigmore. (H)

E181868 Ad F 24.05.S7 Woolstaston, Church Stretton, Salop. (J.M. and AF.L) B 04.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) (Brockhampton '88, Mary Knoll 'S9)

E.172130 Ad F IS.05.87 Church Stretton. (W.AH.) B 17.05.90 Yatton, Herefs. (D.G.B.)

E373752 Pul (F) 3l.O5.88 Newton, Powys. (W.A.H.) Ad B 19.05.90 Wigmore. (J.I.)

E418515 Ad M 05.06.S7 Paradise. (S.G.D.) B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E418564 Pul (F) 05.06.S9 Romers .Wood, Bockleton. (S.G.D.) Ad B IS.05.90 North Wyke, OkehamplOn. (J.R.B.T.) 179Km.

E418963 Pul (M) 08.06.S9 Yatton (D.G.B.) Ad B 04.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.)

E534235 Pul (F) 13.06.87 Llandewi, Penybont, Powys. (D.B.) Ad B 2105.90 Paradise. (5.G.D.)

E535185 Ad F 22.05.88 Yatton. (D.G.B.) B 17.05.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E535513 Pul (F) 09.06.88 Paradise. (S.G.D.) Ad B 20.05.90 Purlogue, Clun, Salop. (L. and A) (Clun '89)

E535576 Ad F 2.H15.89 Romers Wood. (S.G.D.) B 03.06.90 Brockhampton, Bromyard. (D.G.B.)

E535808 Pul (F) 12.06.89 Moccas Park. (AM.) Ad B 10.06.90 Cwmdu, Powys. (D.M.K.) 22Km. 462 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNI1HOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

E537950 Pul (F) 11.06.89 Trelech, Monmouth, Gwent. (S.J.T.) Ad B 25.05.90 MotIin's Hole. (D.G.B.)

E576504 Pul (M) 10.06.87 Wigmore. (M.N.) Ad B 02.06.90 Gatley. (D.G.B.)"

E6OO451 Ad F 27.05.89 Wigmore. (J.I.) B 05.06.90 Rowley, Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E762059 Pul (F) 11.06.89 Rhosymeirch, Knighton Powys. (L. and A). Ad B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E762134 PulF 11.06.89 Rhosymeirch. (L. and A) Ad B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E796725 PUI(M) 11.06.88 Newcastle, Clun. (W. and C.) Ad B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

E848488 Pul (F) 06.06.89 Longhope, Glos. Ad B 24.05.90 White Rocks, Doward, Herefs. (J.F.)

E849044 Pul (F) 04.06.88 St. Briavels, Glos. (S.V.R.G.) Ad B 16.05.90 Mowley, Kington, Herefs. (D.G.B.)

E849205 Pul (F) 07.06.88 Kensley Lodge, Forest of Dean, Glos. Ad B 03.06.90 Woodside, Doward. (J.E)

E849255 Pul(M) 07.06.88 Nagshead, Forest of Dean. Ad B 30.05.90 Crampton, Doward. (J.E)

E849487 Pul (F) 10.06.88 Kensley Lodge. Ad B 17.05.90 White Rocks, Doward. (J.F.)

E897424 Pul (F) 11.06.89 Nagshead. Ad B 17.05.90 Woodside, Doward. (J.E)

E95lm5 Pul (F) 19.06.88 Mary Knoll. (P.G.) Ad B 17.05.90 Yatton. (D.G.B.)

FOO7267 Pul (F) 12.06.88 Sibdon, Craven Arms, Salop. (W. and C) Ad B 27.05.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.)

Rl10078 Pul (M) 04.06.88 Mansel Lacy, Herefs. (CJ.M.) Ad B 15.05.90 Romers Wood. (S.G.D.)

Rl10100 Pul (F) 04.06.88 Mansel Lacy. (CJ.M.) Ad B 11.05.90 Wellington Wood, Canyon Pyon. Herefs. (EB.) HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIfOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 463

F013297 Pul (F) (

FI07791 Ad F 31.05.89 Selly Hall, Purlogue. B 03.06.90 Mary Knoll. (P.G.)

F415

F416172 Pul(M) 14.06.89 Newcastle, Clun. (W. and C) Ad B 05.06.90 Paradise. (S.G.D.)

F519332 Pul (F) 10.06.89 Ladygrove, Burley. (CJ.M.) Ad B 11.05.90 Wellington Wood. (EB.)

The above 60 are selected from 90 available. Those not detailed above include all ringed in 1989 and 1990 and recovered locally. All birds ringed during and prior to 1987 are included.

Kc:v/0ini/ial.' D. Budworth, Felicity Burge, S.G. Dodd, J. Flynn, P. Gardner, W.A. Hotchkiss, J. Icke, D.M. Katz, Langford and Austin, L1ancillo Ringing Group, A. Marchant, CJ. Mead, M. Noble, J.A.L. Robens, Severn Estuary Gull Group, Severn Valley Ringing Group, J.R.B. Tallowin, SJ. Tyler, Whittles and Cross, R. Whitcomb, H.A. Woodland. David G. Boddington 464 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

WEATHER NOTES AND OTHER JOTTINGS, 1990.

January.

January was a remarkable month primarily because it was the warmest on record, although it seems not unique in the u.K.'s 330­ odd years on temperature records. Meteorologists tell us that Jan­ uary 1733 enjoyed exactly the same average temperatures. Violent storms later in the month were also a feature.

Although there were a scattering of minor ground frosts and half dozen or so occasions when the air temperature touched freezing point or lower, January was entirely free of damaging frosts. The first half of the month was relatively calm until a not­ able Atlantic low made it's presence felt in the fourth week. The barometer reading was exceptionally low during the morning of the 25th, and storm force winds from a westerly quarter frequent until about 1800 hrs. Some trees were lost, and property damaged. Whilst it was damp as the month began with only one day entirely free of precipitation during the first half, most rain occurred in the later stages, the total being well above average.

The influence of the mild winter was very evident, including young Woodpigeon not long out of the nest on the 16th, and re­ turning Lapwing and Skylark as well as passage Lesser Black­ backed Gulls, all to be seen before the end of the month.

February.

Early morning on the 1st was almost spring-like, crisp under­ foot, but sunny with no wind. This pleasant beginning was not maintained, and the next 24 hrs. produced heavy rain, lightning, thunder with wind gusting to gale force, a period that set the pattern for the month. In short, although February was one of the mildest, it was very wet and windy. Heavy rain on the 6th and 7th with more gales, gave rise to extensive flooding, not least from the Wye, which had reached a particularly high level by the 8th. Whilst temperature at grass level touched freezing point on just three occasions early on, and it was cold with a trace of snow on higher ground on the 12th, air frost was recorded only on the mornings of the 16th and 17th. Of all the mild days the 23rd was out­ standingly pleasant with the temperature clirri'bing well into the 60's F. However high winds remained a constant feature with the strongest blow reaching storm force again over the night of 25th/26th. Total rainfall was more than double the average amount. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 465

It was a good month for early bird song, and a Hereford City Blackbird in full song on the 5th was striking, but it was well into March before a local Blackbird in the north west of the county was recorded in full voice. Buzzards became more obvious mid­ month, when their calling and more frequent soaring drew atten­ tion to their presence.

March. There was a thin layer of snow on the morning of the first and a north westerly wind gusted to gale force through the day un­ til it became calm in the late evening. Although air temperatures hovered around freezing point during the following two nights, the only significant frost came late in March, and it was overall another remarkably mild month, the 17th being notably warm and sunny. Barometric pressure was high, and temperatures pleasant as the month ended. It had been dry with very little rain to record.

Passage of Curlews through the county could be seen during the month, and breeding birds were arriving. The obvious decline of this species over recent years is hard to quantify, but it is possible to record that another traditional farmland haunt was va­ cated at least for this year.

April.

The month began with thick fog and a slight ground frost. There were heavy hail showers on the 3rd and a sequence of good night frosts between the 3rd and 9th. Easter Sunday, the 15th, came at the beginning of a series of cold days, the Bank Holiday being notable for more hail accompanied by thunder. It was less cold on the 21st, heralding a mostly sunny and warm end to the month becoming very warm throughout the final two days. The most unusual event was a marked earth movement a little before 14.50 B.S.T. on the 2nd, subsequently seismologists indicated an epicentre in the region of Newton, PO\\'Ys. April was another dry month with only around half the average rainfall.

Treecreepers seemed especially numerous as indicated by regular counts, no doubt reflecting the benefits of recent mild winters and successful breeding. The peak of the seasonal Lesser Blacked-backed, Gull passage through the county (a protracted event) seemed to occur between mid April and mid May. 466 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

May. The high pressure system which had encouraged such a warm end to April continued to influence our weather into May. It was hot and sunny on the 1st, and did not really begin to cool down until the afternoon of the 6th, and a sharp drop in temperature was quick to follow. Frost at grass level gave a white hoar.on the morn­ ing of the 10th, and the temperature reached freezing or a little below on the 13th, 26th and 27th. Day temperatures rose again mid month, becoming very warm as the month ended, despite increas­ ing cloud cover at this time. With lengthy dry periods, and close to half the month's rain on one day, the 29th, it was yet another very dry month with hardly more than a quarter of the average rainfall. The Goldcrest, like the Treecreeper mentioned last month, seemed to be flourishing, no doubt for similar reasons, and May was a good month to judge it's fortunes as song could be heard in profusion, not only in regular haunts, but also from some less usual sites.

Iune. Although hot at the end of May, June was at once markedly cooler, and it continued cool and showery for most of the first half, the 8th being an especially cold day. The 11th and 12th were particularly dull with near maximum cloud cover throughout, but it became rather warmer later, albeit not reliably so, and there was a wet spell between the 18th and 21st. A somewhat dismal June ended wet and thundery. Total rainfall was well above average.

Just a single fledgling Magpie left a local nest on the 2nd (good news perhaps). As the adults clearly had problems with a pair of crows throughout incubation and fledging, and were to be seen in pursuit, and even striking, these unwelcome visitors from time to time, it may be that the crows were responsible for this lack of success.

Iuly.

It was cool and showery at first, but became hot during the second week with heatwave conditions throughout the second half of the month, and up to the 20th: The only rain during the hottest period came on the 27th, and more notably overnight on the 29th/30th. Total rainfall was less than half the average.

By mid month the first modest gathering of Swallows, mostly juveniles were to be seen being especially noticable when engaged in pre-roost evolutions. Family groups of Starlings too became flocks, to be measured in hundreds by the end of the month. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 467

August.

The month started with a heatwave, the 3rd being ex':eptionally hot, indeed some parts of the U.K. claimed all-time high British temperature records on this day. Cooler weather appeared on the 5th, and temperatures were somewhat variable thereafter. Warmer weather returned to become cooler again on the 15th, and another heatwave began on the 22nd but did not last, the 30th being almost chilly during a showery spell. The first measurable rain came on the 13th, but there were only four days with significant rainfall, and the total for the month was very Iow yet again.

Passage and/or the arrival of winter birds were characteristic sights of the month, e.g. singletons and small parties of Common Gulls could be seen almost anywhere in the county. This species makes it's first seasonal appearance in July, and is most wide­ spread about now, but never so obvious as when in the large winter flocks of more limited distribution, and no doubt much over­ looked.

September.

The first half of the month was not at all unpleasant, despite variable cloud, some light showers, and a near gale force north westerly wind overnight of 6th/7th, the 8th and 9th were specially sunny days. A cooler spell followed a sharp drop in temperature on the 19th until a mostly pleasant and sunny sequence of days between the 25th and 28th. It was wet with maximum cloud cover on the 29th, with fog in the evening and the heaviest rain of the month followed to end the month. The first ground frost of the season was registered on the morning of the 26th accompanied by slight hoar. Total rainfall was well below average.

Most of our Swallows departed this month leaving just a few pairs attempting to raise a third brood, and the inevitable late passage birds from other parts. Of the incoming wintering birds the few early Wigeon were among the least obvious.

October.

It was bright early on the first day but became progressively duller, and a swiftly moving depression brought rain over night of the 2nd/3rd. It continued wet until high pressure returned with a slight ground frost on the morning of the 8th, the only occasion the temperature dipped below freezing during this rather mild month. The 12th was the warmest day with temperatures up in the upper 60's F. and the 13th was not far behind. The16th was a pleasant day, but was followed immediately by a -'-day spell of heavy cloud 468 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNI1HOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 cover with mist or fog and some drizzle. The 20th was better, but the latter part of the month was cloudy and wet, most rain falling between the 24th and 27th. Total rainfall was well above average. Many corvids are likely to be stashing away items of food for future use at this time ofyear, and Magpies are no exception. Late in the month one was watched burying, or rather hiding, acorns in clumps of garden aubretia, carefully covering the disturbed area afterwards. November. A mostly bright day started the month, soon followed by a period of nightly ground frosts between the 3rd and 9th, the first air frost of the season, a minor affair, being recorded on the morn­ ing of the 6th. It became warmer on the 10th, and remained mild until the advent of a cool wind on the 18th, and a cold day on the 20th with snow overnight making the highest hills white by the following morning. The night of 22nd/23rd was by far the wIdest of the month, giving a heavy white hoar and putting ice on windows, it also produced thick fog which only partially cleared in the afternoon. The remaining days were cool, and often cloudy, the month ending with a particular dull day. There was a windy spell mid month over a five-day period, but no real gale. Just three days were affected by serious rain, the night of 23rd/24th produ­ cing the heaviest fall. The month's total was much less than aver­ age. Lapwing, sometimes accompanied by a few Golden Plover, were clearly more widespread and possibly more numerous than has been usual in recent years during this period. Although most apparent during November and December parties could be seen from late summer, but of course many must have been transient visitors and it is impossible to judge the numbers involved. December.

It was both brighter and warmer on the 3rd after a dull start, but the 5th was cold with a good white frost and the 8th/9th very cold with some heavy snow showers. After a couple of warmer days cold weather returned to give fog at times, some dull days, and a sequence of ground and air frosts. The night of 14th/15th was the coldest of the month, and higher ground still held a trace of snow on the 19th. The Christmas period was by far the warmest phase with shade temperatures just reaching the 50's F. A rainy spell followed to end the month, although it was not a wet month, the total rainfall just approaching the average amount. December was a quiet time for bird song, as is usually the case. Robin was to be heard most frequently, all other song was decid­ edly occasional, even Collared Dove. A Woodpigeon which sang on just one occasion, the morning of the 4th, was not remarkable, but a slight Oddity for December. AJ.S. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 469

MANDARIN DUCKS IN THE MALVERN AREA On Christmas Day 1984 the late Don Parr has a record of four Mandarin ducks "on a small stream (The G1ynch Brook) near Clencher's Mill - Eastnor." This was recorded in the 1986 H.O.C. bird report and was a 'first' for Herefordshire.

There have been no more records locally of Mandarins for the past six years, but now, in 1990, there have been several records in this same general area. Some were just across the boundary in Worcestershire, but the most exceptional record was of a flock of 21 on October 5th that I saw fly out ofcover at the north end of Eastnor castle Lake. The line of The Malvern Hills separates the two counties. Eastnor is less than a mile to the west in Herefordshire. About the same distance to the east is the parish of Berrow, and a month after seeing the Mandarins at Eastnor I had a flock of 13 fly up from a small roadside pool near Berrow Church.

Earlier in the year a pair raised three young on The Mill Pond at Golden Valley which is on the Worcestershire side of Mid-Summers Hill. At the same time another pair was seen in suitable breeding territory near Bromsberrow, just a couple ofmiles to the south in Gloucestershire.

This evidence suggests that a sizeable feral popUlation exists where 'The Three Counties' meet around the southern end ofThe Malvern Hills.

The Mandarin first became established in the wild in Britain in the middle of the last century from introduced stock from China; with the main feral population centring on Virginia Water on the SurreylBerkshire border. However, it was not admitted to 'The British list' until 1971. Isolated small populations exist in other parts of southern England but the only significant populations, other than the one at Virginia Water, are in Central Wales and on Tayside in Scotland.

Latest estimates put the total British poulation at about 7,000 individuals (Marchant et al 1990), but censusing of this species is notoriously difficult be­ cause of its secretive nature and its preferred habitat of secluded ponds and streams in mature broad-leaved woodland. The Winter Bird Atlas (Lack '986) suggests a population of less than 1,000 pairs. Whichever figure is nearest the truth, there can be little doubt that the birds around the Southern Malverns represent a feral population ofsome significance nationally.

There are two local wildfowl collections; one at Bromsberrow (just in Gloucester­ shire) and the other at Birtsmorton on the Worcestershire side of the Hills. Mandarin ducks have probably escaped from both these collections to form the basis of the present feral flock.

All four sightings this year have been from typical habitats. Rack (1986) stresses the need for shelter and mentions overhanging rhodedendron thickets as being especially favoured. At Eastnor Castle Lake, Golden Valley and the small pool at Berrow there are over-hanging willows. At Eastnor the waters of the lake extend several metres into a willow thicket creating a habitat similar to a mini­ mangrove swamp. It was from this dense cover that I was lucky enough to see the tlock of 21 emerge in October. I have returned on several occasions but have not seen them again. When I have entered from the rear of the willow thicket I have heard Mallard flying out, but have been unable to see whether there were Man­ darins with them - in future I must leave a companion on the far shore to report back to me! 470 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

The habitat at Eastnor would appear to be ideal because their winter diet consists mainly of acorns, chestnuts and beech mast. All of these trees are present in The Castle grounds, and chestnuts are especially plentiful. Perhaps even more significant is the intensive rearing and feeding of pheasants on a huge scale on the Eastnor Estate. Marchant et al (1990) suggests that winter flocks ofMandar­ ins tend to form where food is provided for game or water fowl.

The Eastnor Castle grounds and the Glynch Brook that flows from the Castle Lake are probably home to several breeding pairs. The fact that there have been no other sightings between 1984 and this year should not mislead us. I believe this years' sightings were extremely fortuitous. Mandarins feed at night, in woodland, and are very secretive. Furthermore, much of the area in question is private and not easily au;essible for bird watchers. One local farmer who owns the shooting rights beside the Glynch Brook, down-stream from The Castle Lake has told me that he has shot the odd Mandarin from time to time for many years!

Finally, it is interesting to note that in The Birds of the West Midlands (Harrison et al 1982) report that more sightings of Mandarin have been made in October than any other month and the largest flock consisted of 20 birds at Aston Mill (just 12 miles east ofThe Malverns) in 1978.

Apart from a few pairs breeding in Dutch sand dunes Britain is the only European country to have self-supporting feral population of Mandarins. With a decline reported from its native Far East it has been suggested that 'the survival of the species' may one day depend on the birds now established in Britain (Lack 1986). P. G. Garner, West Malvern.

References

Harrison, G. R. A R. Dean A J. Richards and D. Smallshire. 1982. The Birds of the West Midlands. W.M.B.c.

Lack, P. 1986. The Atlas of Wintering Birds in Britain and Ireland T. and AD. Poyser.

Marchant, J.H., R. Hudson, S.P. Carter and P. Whittington. 1990 Population Trends in British Breeding Birds. B.T.O. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIiOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 471

AERIAL FOOD EXCHANGE BETWEEN ADULT AND YOUNG HOBBIES

Between September 4th and 28th 1990 I was able to observe daily a pair of Hobbies Rllco subbuleo with two flying young witnesses on many occasions an aerial food exchange between the adults and young. This exchange followed the same pattern each time. The adult would flyover the field calling to the young bird(s) which replied. At the same time the adult would 'present' the prey by drawing it up in front of its breast and displaying it. This might occur two or three times, in fairly quick succession, before the young approached, either from the nest ('?) or from elsewhere, and the exchange would take place. In the earlier observations the parent bird would pass the prey 10 the young (or, more accurately, the young would snatch the prey from the adult). In later observa­ tions the young would approach to within a metre or so and the adult would drop the prey for the young to catch for itself. Gen­ erally the young bird would then fly to one of the electricity pylons in the vicinity to pluck and feed on the prey.

Prey items were not specifically identified, although in the vicinity of one plucking post I collected the feathers of House Martin Delicnon ufbica.

Revd. D. Bowen 472 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITI-IOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

CLASSIFIED NOTES

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

LITTLE GREBE Tacbybapll1S JVlicoJJi~.

Four pairs bred at Mathon GP raising 12 young (PGG) and one pair bred at Eywood NR (AJS) and probably bred at the Mynde, Much Dewchurch (PGG). Reported from a further 13 localities during the year. Away from Mathon GP where max. 20 noted on Aug. 18th (PGG) the only other large count was 9 in Criftin Ford area on Feb. 10th (CO). An oil spillage at Mathon GP during the second week of October forced the birds to leave and none were seen there until Nov. 25th when 3 noted (PGG).

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiapj' CfL-'lalw:

Single pairs bred at Mathon GP and The Mynde. Much Dewchurch raising one and three young respectively. Did not breed at Eywood NR although a pair noted there on March 16th (AJS's). Elsewhere noted during the year as follows: March 4th, Bodenham GP (PlE); March 15thll7th, Hartleton Pools (Lin ron), 1 (AHE): act. 5th, Eastnor Castle Lake, 3, possibily the Mathon birds (PGG); act. 21st, Castleton Wye, 1 (AM); act. 30th, Eastnor Castle Lake, 1 (PGG): Dec. 6th, Capler Wye, I (KAM).

CORMORANT PbaJaavcol'/lx carbo

The Carey Islands roost counts were as follows; Feb./March, 36+ (daytime counts); Sept., c15; Nov. 6th, 25; Dec. 6th, c60 and similar number on Dec. 11 th (KAM et al). Other large counts during the year were: Castleton - March 4th, 15, act. 13th, 14 (AM); Criftin Ford - Feb, 6th/10th, 9 (KAM et al). March 4th. 10 (PlE). Noted along the Wye at Ballingham, Caplcr, Clifford, Goodrich, Holme Lacy, Monnington and Whitney and elsewhere at Bodenham GP. Burrington Bridge, Hartleton and Ho!me Marsh.

BITTERN BOI/fllms .lIe/bill:

March 17th, Mathon Gr. a single well viewed (rGG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 473

GREY HERON Al'iiea cinerea.

The heronrv counts were as follows: Berrington 27 Leach Pool clO and 6 n'ests at a newly established heronry near Bredwardine. The sites at Foy and Kentchurch appear to have been abandoned. Widely reported during the year although away from the heronries the only large number reported was 6 at Castleton on July 28th.

MUTE SWAN Ogolls %r.

During the first winter/spring and early summer periods the larger counts were: Jan. 17th, Cabalva area, c75 (AJS's); Jan. 29th Lugwardine 42 (lEE's): Feb. 23rd, Hampton Bishop, 28 and the same number there on March 3rd (JLF); March 4th, Castleton, 50+ (AM) and 66 there on March 17th (AJS); March 18th, Letton, 28 (GSB); April 8th, Castlcton, 77 (AM); April 22nd, Hampton Bishop, 52 (JLF); May 16th, Sink Grcen, 26; May 30th. Hampton Park, 33 (GSB); June 8th, Wilton, c33 (AHE).

Successful breeding confirmed at Allensmore Pool, Bartonsham, Berrington, Brockhampton, Hampton Bishop, Hartleton Pools, Laystone Bridge area, The Mynde (Much Dewchurch), Netherton Pond and Whitfield Estate. In addition pairs with cygnets/well grownyoung which may well have bred locally were noted May ­ July at Foy, Hole-in-the-WaIL Ryeford and Wilton.

During the early autumn JHW counted 144 adults and 61 juveniles (mostly three-quarters grown) along the Wye between Fownhope and Symonds Yat East on Sept. Ist/2nd. Other large counts dur­ ing the autumn/second winter period were: Sept. 18th, Sink Green, 41 (JLF); act. 14th, Eywood NR, 22 including 4 juveniles (C & JP).

BEWICK'S SWAN cygolls cO/lImb/aow:

The majority of the records were from Castleton and nearby areas as follows; Jan. 17th, 4 (AJS's), Jan 30th, 19 adults,!3 juveniles (SC); March 4th, 12 (AM); March 11th, 2 (AJS); April 8th, 1 (AM); Nov. 22nd, 5 (AJS's); Dee. 29th, 12 adults!4 juveniles (sq. Else­ where 15 were noted flying south in Breinton/Belmont area on Nov. 24th (GP). . ~

WHOOPER SWAN Ogolls (.1J!0w~

Castlcton, 1 on March 17th (AM) and 2 on April 17th (AJS). 474 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNlTIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser

April 27th, Eywood NR, 1 with Canada Geese (AJS's).

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensi~. Breeding confirmed at Belmont, Eywood NR, Kenchester (3 pairs), Llanwarne, Moccas Park and Whitfield Estate. The larger counts during the year were: Feb. 6th, Criftin Ford Bridge, 100+ (KAM); March 21st, Leintwardine, 31 (IBE's); March 26th, Berrington Hall Lake and pools/reservoir, 61 (Lord Cawley); max. 40 at Kenchester by end of March (PJE); Sept. 26th, Castleton, 31 (KAM); Nov. 8th, Lions Den, Bredwardine, cl00 (SC); Nov. 22nd Cabalva area, c170 (AJS's); Dec., max. 50 at Lions Den (SC). Noted elsewhere during the year in suitable habitat at Backney, Clehonger, Hampton Bishop, Hampton Park, Holme Lacy, Leach Pool, Lugg Meadows, Putson, Sink Green, Stretton Sugwas SP, Wall Hills (near Ledbury) and Wellington GP.

BARNACLE GOOSE Branta /el/copsi£

A single at Eywood NR on March 3rd was undoubtedly an 'esca­ pe' (PO).

SHELDUCK Tadoma tadoma.

Singles noted on flood water at Lugg meadows, near Tupsley on Feb. 9th (AM) and at Hampton Bishop on Feb. 23rd (JLF).

MANDARIN Ail'ga/ericl//ata.

Jan. 21st, Lions Den, Bredwardine, a drake on Wye with 5 Mal­ lard (SC); April 5th,.Belmont tip pool, a drake (RHS); Oct. 5th, Eastnor Castle Lake, 21 (PGG) - see article by PGG on page 469 of this report; Dec. 5th Lions Den, a single on Wye (SC).

The Lions Den and Belmont sigl)tings probably relate to the same wandering individual. Ed.

WIGEON Anas pene/ope.

Jan. 14th, Castleton, clOD (AJS's) and c90 there on Jan. 27th (CO); Aug. 3rd, Eywood NR, 2 (AJS's) and a drake and 2 ducks there on Oct. 27th; Oct. 29th, Castleton, 23; Nov. 11 th, Mathon GP, a female (PGG); Nov. 22nd, Castleton area, 25 (AJS) and max. 50 noted there during Dec. (AM et al). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 475

GADWALL Anas stIepera.

April 9th, Linton, a pair (PGG); April 28th, Backney Wye, a pair and a pair on Strangford Wye on May 7th (GJ); May 28th, Hartle­ ton Pools (Linton), 2 pairs and a pair with 7 young on June 18th (AHE); Aug. 23rd/25th, Eywood NR, a single drake (AJS's et al); Sept. 26th, Capler Wye, 2 (EAG); Nov. 4th, Hartleton Pools, 5 (AHE).

TEAL Anas aecca. The larger counts during the year were: Jan. 17th, Leach Pool, c15 (AJS's); Feb. 18th, Eywood NR, c50 (P & TD); Feb. 20th, Heathy Park Pool, Brampton Bryan, 20 (PGG); March 12th, Kenchester, 17 (PJE); Sept. 25th, Eywood NR, c50 (AJS's) and 30+ there on Oct. 12th; Oct. 29th, Leach Pool, c60; Nov. 2nd, Heathy Park Pool, 15 (PGO). Elsewhere 1 - 10 birds noted at Bodenham, Bredwar­ dine, Criftin Ford, Hampton Bishop, Linton, Mathon SP and Moccas Park.

MALLARD Anas platyTbXJ1cbm:

A common breeding resident and winter visitor widely reported throughout the year. The larger counts were: Aug. 23rd, E)wood NR, c120 (AJS's); Sept. 2nd, Whitchurch, c170 on Wye (AHE); Sept. 9th, Castleton Wye, 100+ (KAM); Oct. 5th, Eastnor Castle Lake, c80 (PGG); Oct. 21st, Castleton Wye, c60 (AM); Nov. 2nd, Heathy Park Pool, Brampton Bryan, c50 (PGG); Dec. 7th, Lions Den, Bredwardine, 56 (SC); Dec. 9th, Mathon GP, c50 (PGG).

SHOVELER Anas clypeata.

Eywood NR, Jan. 9th, 2 drakes and a female (C & JP); Jan. 11th, 3 drakes and 3 females (AJS's); May 21st, 2 drakes (JLF et al); Nov. 11th, 2 drakes. Elsewhere single females noted at Mathon GP on Nov. 11th and 18th (PGG) and Lions Den, Bredwardine on Dec. 5th (SC).

POCHARD Ayt~F~1 ierina.

Eywood, NR, max. 6 during Feb. (KAM et al), a single drake on June 17th, 2 drakes on Sept. 16th (P & TO) and 7 drakes (includ­ ing2 immatures) on Oct. 25th (AJS's).

Mathon GP, as at the above locality all records were of drakes as follows: Jan. 7th, 1; Jan. 28th, 2; Nov. 25th and Dec. 9th, 3; Dec. 23rd, 1 (PGO). 476 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

TUFrED DUCK AItkr~ fil1Igula.

Recorded throughout the year and breeding confirmed at Ey­ wood NR and Mathon GP (2 pairs raised 13 young) and a family party noted on Mill Pond at Logaston, Almeley in July presumably bred locally. At Mathon GP the max. monthly counts were: Jan. 7; Feb. 16; March 20; April 19; May 11; June 12; Sept. 10; Oct. 8; Nov 11; Dec. 10 (PGG). Elsewhere the larger counts were: Jan. 17th, Leach Pool, min. 10 (AJS's); Feb. 3rd, EYViOOd NR, 16 (KAM); March 3rd, Hampton Bishop, 12 (8 drakes/4 females) (JLF); April 23rd, Whitfield Estate 10 + (RHS); June 11th Hanleton, 16 (AHE); Oct. 11 th, Eywood NR, c20; Oct. 29th, Monnington, 17 (PGG). 1 - 10 birds noted at CheckIey, Collington Pool (Bromyard), Criftin Ford area, Hampton Meadow, Kenchester, Moccas Park, Skipen Croft and Stretton Sugwas SP.

GOLDENEYE BacepiJala c1aI{![ala.

Jan. 14th, Castleton Wye, 10 (including 5 drakes) (AJS's); March 6th, Backney Wye, 4 drakes and a female (WOO); Nov. 9th, Lions Den, Bredwardine, 2 drakes (SC); Dec. 1st, CastIeton, 5 (AM); Dec. 2nd, Eywood NR, one flew in but stayed only briefly before flying off southwards (JHP's). Max. 2 drakes and a female noted on Wye near Lions Den during Dec. (SC).

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Mergus sura/or.. Feb. 23rd, Sink Green, a single noted (JLF).

GOOSANDER MeZ![l/j" mez![an.R'I: Recorded throughout the year, principally on the rivers Wye and Teme. At least two pairs bred with broods of 10 and 9 noted. The larger counts along the Wye were: CastIeton - March 4th, 24; March 11th, 26; March 17th, 20; April 8th, 23 (all 'redheads'); Dec. 1st, 15; Lions Den, Bredwardine - Jan. 23rd, 19; Aug. 11th, 21 and a similar number on Aug. 30th; Sink Green - March 27th, 15. Along the Teme the largest count was 25 at Tedney, near Whitbourne on Jan. 6th. Elsewhere noted at Criftin Ford Bridge, Eywood NR (max. 32, including 12 drakes on Dec. 1st), Hampton Bishop, Leintwardinc, Lenon, Linton, Lyepole and Wilton.

RUDDY DUCK Q~WflJjamaicenj"I~:

April 21st, Burrington Pool, 2 drakes and a female and sub­ sequently bred at this location (NP); Sept. 6th, Berrington, 2 in eclipse on reservoir (Lord Cawley); Oct. 20th, Eywood NR, a single female (P & TO). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 477

RED KITE }.1iJmsmJ]vw:

April 24th, Coppet Hill, Goodrich, a single noted (RD); July 9th, Turner's Boat, a single with blue tag on right wing (EAM); Aug. 25th/26th, near Nupend NR, a single (DG pcr KAM).

HEN HARRIER CiJ"ClIS cyanells-

Dec. 24th, Mordiford, a 'ringtail' notcd (lBE).

GOSHAWK AC(ipi/ergenlJJi~. Singles noted on four dates, two in spring and two in late autumn.

SPARROWHAWK Accipi/er nislIs.

Recorded throughout the year with reports from 43 localities (cL 34 in 1989) widely distributcd throughout the County. Among the avian prey taken were Robin, Greenfinch and Tit spp.

BUZZARD BlI/eo bll/eo.

Recorded throughout the year with reports from 55 localities (cL 30 in 1989) widely distributed throughout the County and breeding notcd at 8 sites. The larger counts were: Feb. 10th, Criftin Ford area, 5 (CO); March 21st, Birley Hill, 5 (WHDW); April 2nd, Garnons, 6 over woods and 4 over Garnstone on the same date (PJE); April 24th, Haugh Wood, 5 (lBE); May 24th, Welsh New­ ton,6 (MM); May - July, Westhope Hill, max. 5 (GNS's); Aug. 17th, Bromsash,7 (AHE); Sept. 22nd, StaplelOn Castle area, dO (CO). In addition there were reports of 4 birds together during the year from Dilwyn, Hoarwithy, Holme Marsh, Linton, Lyepole, Newton/St. Margaret's, Sollershope, Titley and YazoL

OSPREY P.l!ldiOlI1J/lJJ:'lc/lI5: July 8th, near Lugg Mills, one watched fishing in Lugg (NO); Aug. 19th, Castleton, a single noted over Wye and later seen with fish (AM). 478 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

KESTREL RI/co tinnuncu/w:

Recorded throughout the year from 46 localities (cf. 27 in 1989) widely distributed throughout the County

MERLIN Fa/co co/umbaJills. Singles noted at two localities in spring and an immature present at a further locality for at least four weeks during the second winter period.

HOBBY FaJco .mbbuteo. Bred at one locality and noted elsewhere on ten other dates, two in spring and eight during summer months.

A better than average year for records. Ed.

PEREGRINE RI/coperegJinus.

Recorded on ten occasions during the year, three during first winter/spring period, five in summer and two in autumn. Most records referred to single birds but 3 were noted together at one locality. Undoubtedly some of the sightings relate to birds from the Symonds Yat site.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE AJectori~ fUIiJ.

Recorded during the year at AlIensmore, Backney, Belmont, Brilley, Bromsash (max. 28 on Sept. 30th), Clehonger (max. 17 on Sept. 24th), Hole-in-the-Wall, Holme Lacy, Holme Marsh (max. 10 on Oct. 23rd), Llangarron, Lyonshall area, Mathon GP, Much Dewchurch, SoUarshope, Welsh Newton and Withington.

GREY PARTRIDGE Perdil' perdil:

No large counts reported. 1 - 4 birds recorded during the year at Belmont, Brilley, Bromsash, Criftin Ford Bridge, Kenderchurch, Llangarron, Llanwarne, Holme Lacy, Much Marclc, Nethcrton Lake, Welsh Newton Common, West Malvern and Withington. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 479

QUAIL Q)tumix cotumix.

Singles heard calling at Durlow Common on May 29th (FRF), Bromsash on May 31st (AHE), Cusop on June 20th (JT) and Llangarron on Aug. 2nd (BB's).

PHEASANT Pl1asianus coJcl1icus.

A common breeding resident.

WATER RAIL RaUus aquatJeus.

Single birds noted at Belmont GP on March 31st (RHS), Eywood NR on Oct. 20th (BKN), Ivington on Nov. 11th (MB-T) and Hartleton Pool on Dec. 9th (AHE).

CORNCRAKE Cf(~I' ClC'X The only confirmed report was of a bird caught in a rabbit trap at Lower Lulham, Madley on Aug. 31st (HS) and released unharmed.

MOORHEN Oallinula cl1loropa~:

Widely reported throughout the year from suitable habitat and a good breeding season recorded.

COOT FuJica atm.

A common breeding resident in suitable habitat with numerous and widespread records throughout the year.

OYSTERCATCHER Haemalopus oSlrajegu~:

Singles noted at Lions Den, Bredwardine on July 30th (SC) and Castleton on Aug. 18th (AM).

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Cl1amd17us dubli/~:

A pair noted in suitable breeding habitat in early May and sub­ sequently bred successfully. A pair found with eggs at another locality within the County but failed to produce young.

RINGED PLOVER Cl1arad17us lJiaticula.

Aug. 19th, Mathon GP, 2 adults (PGG); Aug. 25th, Holmc Marsh, 1 circling briefly and calling (AJS's). 480 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

GOLDEN PLOVER P/uvla/isapricaria.

The first winter flock in Three Elms area of Hereford which numbered cHOO in Dec. 1989 was reduced to 200+ in Jan. (IBE's). During the second winter period c40 were noted at this locality in Dec. (AAS). Elsewhere records were as follows: Sept. 26th, Castleton, 1 (KAM); Oct. 23rd, Shobdon, 211 (FWM); Nov. 24th, Holme Marsh, 1 and c30 in the same area on Dec. 1st (AJs's) when there was also cI50 at Callow (WOO).

LAPWING Vane//us vane//UJ: A much better year for records with breeding confirmed at four sites and displaying birds noted at numerous other localities suggesting probable breeding. The larger counts during the year were: Jan. 1st Wilton, cIoo (WOO); Jan. 2nd, Lugg meadows, c300 (IBE's); Jan. 28th, Holme Marsh, clOO on passage (AJS's); Jan. 30th, Three Elms, Hereford, 200+ (lBE's) July 25th, Hampton Bishop, clOO (JLF); Aug. 22nd Ballingham, 500+ (lBE's) Sept. 16th Holme Marsh, c200 (AJS's) Sept. 30th, Dinmore area, clOO (DT's) Oct. 8th Clehonger, 100+ (Rev. DB); Nov. 28th, Allens­ more, c200 (RGD); Dec. 2nd, Three Elms, c400 (DT's); Dec. 6th, Wilton, cIOO (WOO); Dec. 7th Allensmore, c350 (RGD).

JACK SNIPE 4wnnoCIyptesminimus. Singles noted at Mathon on Jan. 28th and Feb. 18th (PGG).

SNIPE Ga//inagogaf/inago. Breeding confirmed at Humber Marsh, near Stoke Prior (per KAM). At Mathon GP the monthly max. counts were: Jan. 11; Feb. 7; March 12; April 4 (last noted April 23rd); Sept. 6 (first returning bird noted on Sept. 6th); act. 3; Nov. 5; Dec.7 (PGG). The only other large count was 11 at Tretire on Jan. 2nd (WaD). Records of 1 - 4 birds came from Backney, Castleton, Clehonger, Eardisley, Eywood NR, Kenchester, Llanwarne, Marden, Pen­ coyd, Sink Green and Westhope.

WOODCOCK Sc%pax rustico/a. Jan. 14th, Upper Hill, one dead on road (WHDW); Jan. 22nd, Eywood NR, 1; Jan.26th, Haugh Wood, a single flushed and again on Feb. 2nd (EAG); singles noted at Aymestry SP, Heathy Park (Brampton Bryan) and Upper Kinsham on Feb 20th (PGG); March 6th, Haugh Wood, 'roding' (KAM); March 30th, Mathon/Coddington area, one 'roding' (PGG); May 28th, Whit­ field Estate, breeding confirmed by gamekeeper (per GSB). PGG reported that none were noted in usual areas on west slopes ofThe Malverns in 1990. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 481

CURLEW Numenius arqual3. Breeding confirmed at Humber Marsh, near Stoke Prior (per KAM) and south of Mathon GP (PGG) and probably bred at Leintwardine and Newton. At Holme Marsh AJS reported that local bird arrived on March 15th but disappeared after several days and that no breeding took place in usual area. The only large flock reported was 52 at Leintwardine on Nov. 17th OBE's) and, apart from one record in Jan., all other records were of 1 - 4 birds noted during the period March - Nov.

REDSHANK Tringa !oI3nu.£ June 14th, Criftin Ford area, 1 (PG); June 17th, Eywood NR, 2 (P & ID); June 23rd, Castleton, 2 (AM).

GREENSHANK Tringa nebu/aria.

Castleton, a single present on Aug. 18th/19th (AM) and 3 on Sept. 2nd (KAMNGR).

Hereford Wye, 2 on Sept. 10th and 13th and a single on Sept. 27th (MB). Elsewhere singles noted at Mathon on Aug. 6th (PGG), Sink Green on Aug. 30th and Hampton Bishop on Sept. 4th with 2 there on Sept. 8th (JLF).

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa acbropus. Recorded in all months of the year, the larger counts were 4 at Belmont tip on Feb. 15th (RHS) and 4 at Criftin Ford Bridge on Nov. 2nd (PGG). 1 - 3 birds regularly noted at the former locality during the year (RHS). Except for 2 at Letton Court on Jan. 27th (CO) and 2 at Leach Pool on Oct. 29th (PGG) all other records were of single birds at Burrington Bridge, Canon Pyon, Castleton, Gamber Brook, LIangartron, LIanwarne, Marden, Mathon GP, Tupsley and Woolhope.

WOOD SANDPIPER Tringa g/areo/a.

April 9th, a single noted beside small pond near Marden Church (PT).

COMMON SANDPIPER AClilis kvpo/euco.£

The first reported was a single beside the Wye at Sellack on April 9th (PGG) and recorded thereafter during the summer/early autumn from Breinton Springs, Capler Wye, CastIeton, Fownhope, Foy, Hereford Wye, Leintwardine, Linton, Mathon GP, Sink Green, Whitfield and Wilton Bridge area. The last noted was a single at Castleton on Sept. 26th (KAM). 482 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

BLACK- HEADED GULL Larus ndi/Jundw:

Recorded throughout the year and breeding noted near Leomins­ ter (MB-T). The larger counts were: Jan. 2nd, Lugg meadows, c1000 (lEE's); March 15th, Castleton, cl50 and c320 there on April 8th (AJS).

COMMON GULL Lams cant/so The larger counts were: Jan. 24th, Roman Road; Hereford, c60 (AJS's); Feb. 1st, near Leominster, 20; March 7th, Garway, 500+ (lEE's); April 1st, Common Hill, c55 and c30 near Caplar Wye on the same date (KAM); April 7th, Dinedor, cl00; Nov. 5th, Mansel Gamage, min 35 (AJS's). Elsewhere 1 - 12 birds noted at Backney, Byford, Castleton, Hampton Bishop, Lyonshall and Mathon GP during Jan. - April and late July - end of year.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus ii/sclIs.

The largest count was 500+ near Leominster on Feb. 1st (lEE's) with 330 there on Feb. 20th (PGG). Smaller flocks reported were: Jan. 7th, Belmont tip, 30+ (DJSIRHS); April 8th, Holme Marsh, 33 on spring passage (AJS); June 26th, Stretton Sugwas SP, 25 includ­ ing 5 immatures (GRG's); Sept. 2nd, Holme Marsh, 14 (AJS's); act. 12th, Mathon GP, 80 (PGG); Dec. 27th, St. Margaret's, 17 (RGD). 1 - 10 birds noted at Castleton, Doward, Llangarron, Lyonshall and Sarnesfield.

HERRING GULL Ll1YS //(f,'eIJlaIUS

July 14th, Olchon Valley, a single flying over (CO).

A single 'yellow-legged' bird of the western Mediterranean race L. a.michaiJellimoted at Stretton Sugwas on act. 8th (SGD).

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Lamsmadolls' Jan. 2nd, Lugg meadows, 3 (lEE's); May 23rd, Sink Green, 2 adults and 4 immatures noted on passage (GSB).

KITTIWAKE Rin:? Irid?c(vla. A single found dead in Queenswood Arboretum, Dinmore on Feb. 5th after gales (per JB). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNrrnOLOGICALREPORT 1990 483

COMMON TERN Slerna lJirundo.

Singles noted at Bodenham GP on June 26th (SGD) and Hartle­ ton Pool on Aug. 23rd (AHE).

BLACK TERN ClJbaonias nigeJ".

May 21st, Eywood NR, 1 (JLF's et al).

STOCK DOYE QJJumba oena,j:

A common breeding resident and widespread throughout the Countyin suitable habitat.

WOODPIGEON CoJumbapaiumbus.

A common and widespread breeding resident. The larger counts were: Feb. 10th Criftin Ford Bridge, 300+ (CO); act. 31st, Bromsash, c70 (AHE); Dec. 26th, Holmer Copse, c50 in flight (EMA's).

COLLARED DOVE Slreplopeii/i decaoelo.

The widespread breeding resident. The only flock reported was 15 at Brilley in June (WL-S).

TURTLE DOVE Slrelopeiia lurlll1: The first reported was at Haugh Wood on May 4th (KAM) and widely reported thereafter to late July.

PARAKEET sp. Psi/taeuia sp.

A single noted near Sink Green on March 3rd (JLF)

JLF reported a Ring-necked Parakeet P. krameri at Hampton Bishop on Aug. 6th, 1989 and the above record may relate to the same bird. Ed.

CUCKOO Cueuius CtlDO/VS. The first reported was at Cother Wood on April 11th (PGG) and main arrival noted around April 21st and widely reported throughout the County thereafter. PJE noted a bird calling at 11.30pm at Bishopstone on May 17th. Last heard calling at Holme Marsh on June 26th. A juvenile seen at Tillington Fruit Farm in Sept. (AAS). 484 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

BARN OWL 7)'10 alba.

Noted during the year at Allensmore, Belmont, Bredwardine, Hampton Court, Letton, Little Marcle, Marden, Marlow (near Leintwardine), Perrystone, Preston Wynne (bred), Shobdon and Wormbridge.

The nation-wide survey of this species carried out by the Hawk Trust estimated the County population at 40 pairs. At first glance this would appear to be considerably higher than the above re­ cords suggest, but a check through past H.O.c. Reports will show that birds are present in many other areas and the Hawk Trust estimate probably represents a reasonable assessment of the current status of the Barn Owl in the County. Ed.

LITTLE OWL A/bene nOell/a.

A common breeding resident, widely distributed throughout the County in suitable habitat.

TAWNY OWL Slai- all/CO. The only breeding report came from Sollershope where young heard calling on July 2nd (FRF). Undoubtedly bred in suitable habitat elsewhere. Records during the year came from: Aconbury (found dead in road), Ballingham, Birch Wood, Bogmarsh, Common Hill, Edwin Ralph, Fownhope, Hoarwithy, Llangarron, Newton and Three Elms.

LONG-EARED OWL Asio olus. A single noted at Downton early in the year (per GC) and a single found caught in wire at Allensmore on March 12th which was ta­ ken to Miss Bayliss's bird hospital and sUbsequently released at Allensmore on March 21st.

SWIFf Apl/s apus. The first reported were seen at Llanwarne on April 27th (PJK) with the main arrival during the first week of May. Noted throughout the breeding season until the first week of August when main departure occurred. The last reported was a single at Mathon on Sept. 4th (PGG).

KINGFISHER Ala-do attbi~.

Resident and breeding and as in 1989 there was a multitude of records throughout the year from the rivers Wye, Lugg, Teme and Arrow and along many small streams and at the various sand and gravel pits and small pools within the County. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIfOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 485

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus virid/'}:

A widely distributed breeding resident in suitable habitat. Re­ corded throughout the year from Bacton, Belmont, Bodenham, Brilley, Bromsash, Burton Court, Checkley, Common Hill, 00­ ward, Ewyas Harold, Fownhope, Garway, Gorsley, Hartleton, Haugh Wood, Hereford, Hoarwithy, Holme Lacy, Kilpeck, Linton, Llanwarne, Newton, Nupend NR, Olchon, Paget's Wood NR, St. Owen's Cross, Sink Green, Sollershope and Whitfield.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos major.

A common breeding resident, widely reported throughout the year. A regular visitor to winter feeding stations.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minOl:

An increase in the number of records submitted and noted throughout the year with reports from Aylestone Hill (Hereford), Backbury Hill, Big Birches Wood, CheckIey, Common Hill, Haugh Wood, Hoarwithy, Hole-in-the-Wall, Holme Marsh, Holy'Well Din­ gle, Ivington, Lower Lye, Mathon GP, Mordiford, Putley, Soller­ shope, Tillers Green and Titley.

SKYLARK AJauda an'C'nsl.~

A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and also a passage migrant/winter visitor. The larger counts were: Jan. 14th, Castle­ ton, c24 (AJS's); March-July, Belmont GP area, c20 regularly seen (RHS); Oct. 5th, WiIton, c30 and a similar number at Bromsash on Oct. 7th (AHE). AJS reported relatively little autumn passage ob­ served in Holme Marsh area and this was mostly confined to Oct.

SAND MARTIN Ripan3.1ipafl3.

The first reported was a single at Wilton on March 14th (WOO) with the main arrival during the last week of March and early April. Numbers were similar to 1989 and a good breeding season was again recorded. The last reported were at Eywood NR on Sept. 12th (DT's). SWALLOW Hirundo rustim.

Arrival this year was latcr than normal and the first to be rcported were at Mordiford on April 10th (IBE's) with the main influx dur­ ing the following two weeks. The only post-breeding flock re­ ported was c50 at Holme Marsh on Aug. 9th (AJS's) and the last noted were 2 at Eywood NR on Oct. 14th (C & JP). 486 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

HOUSE MARTIN Debcnon urbica.

The first reported were 4 at Belmont on April1lth (RHS) with the main arrival noted end April/early May. MPW reported an in­ crease in numbers at Goodrich Castle following the steady decline over the past twenty years (cf. 1989 Report) and there was also evidence ofan increase in numbers at several other localities within the County. Post breeding flocks reported were: Aug. 24th, King­ ton, c120 (AlS's); Sept. 22nd, Third's Land (Kettle Sings), c100 (PGG); Oct. 3rd, Lea, c100 (AHE); Oct. 5th, East Hill, Malvern (Wores.), c500 on boundary between the two counties which un­ doubtedly crossed into Herefordshire on occasions; Oct. 6th Mathon GP, clOO (PGG). The last reported were 2 at St. Owen's Cross on Oct. 24th (WOD)

TREE PIPIT An/nus /rivia1J..f.

A single in song at Ragged Stone Hill on April 23rd was the first reported (PGG). Recorded during the breeding season at Acon­ bury, Bredwardine, Ewyas Harold, Eywood NR, Haugh Wood, Olchon, WapIey and Wyche - British Camp (west).

As in 1989 very few records were submitted and the decline in numbers of this species generally has been commented upon in several other County Bird Reports. Ed.

MEADOW PIPIT An/nus pJa/eOSI..f. A breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Noted during the year at Belmont, Brampton Bryan, Castleton, Garway Hill, Mathon GP, May Hill, Merbach, Newton, Olchon Valley and Stapleton Castle. At Mathon GP the monthly maxima were: Jan. 30; FebAO; March 40 (+40 at Mathon Village); April 90; Sept. c60; Oct.. c50; Nov.16; Dec. 25 (PGG). AJS reported main autumn passage noted second half of Sept.

YELLOW WAGTAIL MotaCIlla Dava. 3 at Holme Lal-)' on April 7th (CO) were the first reported and recorded thereafter at Aston Mills, Aymestrey SP (first breeding record for the pits but young predated by crows), Belmont, Bromsash, Castleton, Clehong~r, Credenhill, Foy, Hampton Bishop, HartIeton, Hole-in-the-Wall, Holme Lacy, Holme Marsh, L1anwarne, Mathon GP, Sellack, Sink Green, Welsh NC\\1on Common and WiIton Bridge area. The last reported was a single passage bird at Holme Marsh on Sept. 26th (AJS's) HEREFORDSHIRE ORNIrnOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 487

GREY WAGTAIL MOlac17la cinerea.

A widespread breeding resident in suitable habitat and passage migrant and winter visitor. Recorded during the year at Aston Mills, Backney, Belmont, Brampton Bryan, Brilley, Burrington Bridge, Castleton, Clifford, Clock Mills, Criftin Ford, Ewyas Har­ old, Hartleton, Hereford Sewerage Works, Holme Lac)', Leint­ wardine, Lenon, Llangarron, Llanwarne, Lyepole, Mansel Gamage, Marden, Mathon GP, Monnington, Newton, Olchon, Sink Green, Stapleton Castle, Turnastone, Tupsley, Wergins Bridge and Wilton.

PIED WAGTAIL MOlaCl7la alba.

A common breeding resident and passage migrant. At Mathon GP maxima pre-roost gatherings were noted as follows: Feb. 30; March 44; April 30; Aug. 53 (c75% were juveniles); Sept. 180; Oct. 350+; Nov. clOD (PGG). c50 were first noted roosting in High Town, Hereford on Nov. 11 th (SC) and numbers increased steadily thereafter and c500 were at roost there on Dec. 23rd (lBE's). The only other gatherings reported were at Hartleton with c26 there on Aug. 23rd and c75 on Dec. 1st (AHE).

DIPPER Clndlls eine/us.

No breeding records submitted but undoubtedly bred in usual areas. Records during the year came from along the river Arrow at Kington and Mowley Wood, the river Lugg at Lyepole and the river Teme at Burrington, Criftin Ford and Leintwardine. Also noted along Back Brook, Kington and along Dulas Brook at Ewyas Harold.

WREN Troglodytes lroglrxtrtes. A common breeding resident

DUNNOCK Prune/la modlllarIJ:

A common breeding resident.

ROBIN Erilnacus rllbecula. A common breeding resident. 488 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

NIGHTINGALE LlISclOJ1J megadJ.vncbos.

Heard in song at Bromyard Downs at the end of April (DGB), Little Gorsley on May 2nd (KAM's) and Great Hayclose Coppice (Clencher's Mill), near Eastnor on May 30th (PGG).

REDSTART PboenicllIvspiJoenicllrllJ:

Main arrival noted from mid-April and widely reported from suit­ able habitat during the breeding season. The last reported were 3 juvenuiles at Tupsleyon Aug. 23rd (IBE's).

WHINCHAT SaxicoJa rubertra.

Noted at Hergest Ridge on April 29th and again on May 6th (H & BD), a female at Stretton Sugwas SP on May 8th (FWM) and a single noted at Belmont Pond on May 5th, 13th and 19th (DJSJRHS).

STONECHAT Sa.licoJa torqllata. A male noted in song at Hergest Ridge on April 29th and May 6th (H & BD) and 2 males and a female on the west side of The Mal­ verns above Kettle Sings on Oct. 13th (PGG) were the only re­ cords for the year.

WHEATEAR Oenantbe oenantbe. The first reported were a male and female at Castleton on March 17th (AM). April 15th, Olchon, 4 (IBE's); April 23rd, Mathon GP, a male and 2 males there on April 29th (PGG). A single at Bromsash and a pair at May Hill also on the 29th (AHE); May 5th, Stretton Sugwas SP, a female (FWM). There were again no breed­ ing records submitted but undoubtedly bred in usual areas e.g. Olchon Valley where c20 noted on Aug. 8th (PGG). First autumn passage bird noted at Castleton on July 25th (AM) and the last reported was a single near the 'trig' point at Ridge Hill on Oct. 17th (TH).

RING OUZEL TlIrdlls torqwtlls. All reports were from the Olchon Valley where 3 present on March 31st (KAM), a pair on April 15th (lSE's) and 2 pairs on Aug. 8th (PGG).

BLACKBIRD TlIrdllsmerclIJa.

A common breeding resident and winter visitor from the con­ tinent. Subdued song noted at Holme Marsh on Jan. 9th and in full song in Hereford City on Feb. 5th (AJS's). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 489

FIELDFARE TlIIdus pilafi.£ Present throughout the first winter period and into early spring. The larger flocks during this period were: Jan. 2nd, Lugg mea­ dows, c500 (lBE's), Jan. 28th, Ode Pychard, c450 and c200 at Shelwick Green on the same date (PGG). At Holme Marsh max. Jan. count was c400 (AJS's) and at Marden c20D (PT). Feb 4th, Holme Lacy, max. 400 (KAM's); Feb. 20th, Upper Kinsham, c350 (PGG); max. c300 at Holme Marsh in Feb. (AJS's); March 30th, Mathon GP, c250 (PGG); April 15th, St. Margaret's, 145 (RGD). The last reported was noted feeding on pasture at Stansbatch on May 8th (JMB). The first returning birds were noted at Dinedor on Oct. 5th (lBE's) and noted in good numbers thereafter to the end of the year. Passage recorded at Holme Marsh on Oct. 22nd and Nov. 7th/8th with sizeable flocks noted (AJS). The larger counts during the second winter period were: Oct. 14th, Hampton Bishop, c250 (JLF); Oct. 26th, Bromsash, c250 (AHE); Dec. 15th, Holme Marsh area, c500 (AJS); Dec. 18th, Newton Farm area (Hereford), 300+ (RHS); Dec 20th, Bogmarsh, c1ODO in flight to roost (lBE's); Dec. 23rd, Mathon GP, c250 (PGG); Dec. 26th, Hartleton Lake, c300 (AHE).

SONG THRUSH nUd~pnffomrl~ A breeding resident and winter visitor. Widespread and fairly common throughout the year though under-recorded.

REDWING Turdlls lliac//.):

Present throughout first winter period to March 18th in fewer numbers than Fieldfares. The larger counts were: Jan. 28th, Mathon Village, clOO and a similar number at Ode Pychard on the same date; Feb. 3rd, Mathon GP, c150; Feb. 20th, Upper Kinsham clOD (PGG). At Holme Marsh the max. monthly counts were: Jan. c230; Feb. c100 and March 150 (AJS). The last noted were at Glewstone Court on March 18th (GJ). The first returning birds in autumn were noted at Goodrich on Sept. 25th (TH). Major influx noted Nov. 7th/8th and the larger counts during the second winter period'were: Nov. 2nd, The Goggin, clOO and a similar number at Wigmore Castle on the same date (PGG); Dec. 1st Castleton, c20D (AM); max. 100 noted at Newton during Dec. (ROD).

MISTLE THRUSH Turd/l'}' viscivorou.}:

Resident and breeding and regularly noted throughout the year. 490 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNI1HOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER LoclIsleJlanaevia. Single birds heard 'reeling' at Lyepole on June 2nd (FWM) and Burrington on June 28th (NP) but neither bird stayed. PGG re­ ported that birds were absent from traditional site on west side of The Malverns this year.

SEDGE WARBLER Aaocepllalus scllenobaenu£ The first birds reported were singles at castleton (AJS), Walford and Wilton (WOO) on April 28th. May 7th, Hoarwithy - Ross, min. 6 in song along the Wye (GJ); May 28th, Hartleton, a single noted and 6 pairs subsequently noted breeding in June; June 8th, Wilton, a single (AHE); July 7th, castleton, 2 in song (AM), July 25th, Belmont tip, 1 (RHS/KAM). The last reported was a single at Hartleton on Aug. 23rd (AHE).

REED WARBLER Aaocepllalus sC./jpacew: June 26th, Mathon SP, 1 in song (PGG); June 29th, Stretton Sugwas, 1 caught in mist net (SGD). No reports from traditional breeding sites at Shobdon but presumably bred as usual. LESSER WHlTETHROAT S]lvia currllCfJ. The first reported were singles noted in song on April 28th at Carey (PGG) and Letton Lakes (AJS). Notes thereafter at Aston Mills, Belmont area, Castleton, Common Hill, Credenhill, Fay, Hampton Bishop, Holme Marsh, Llanwarne, Mathon GP, Mordi­ ford and Stansbatch. The last reported was at Tupsley on July 31st (lBE's).

WHITETHROAT s.vlvia communi~: The first reported were singles in song on April 28th at Fay (GJ) and Wapley (JMB). Noted thereafter at Allensmore, Belmont area, Burghill, Covenhope, Credenhill, Eau Withington, Ewyas Harold, Hampton Bishop, Llanwarne, Lyonshall, Newton, Putley, Ragged Stone Hill (west), Rudhall, Sarnesfield, Sellack, Soller­ shope, Wall Hills (Ledbury), Whitfield and Wyche - British camp (west). Last noted Burghill on Sept 13th (GRG's).

GARDEN WARBLER SYlvia borin. A single in song at Lyonshall on April 30th (AJS) was the first reported with the main arrival during latter half of May. Noted during late spring/summer period at Allensmore, Brilley, Checkley, Doward, Ewyas Harold, Eywood NR, Garway, Kilpeck, Lyon­ shall, Newton, Putley, Ragged Stone Hill (west) - 6 in song on May 24th, Wall Hills (Ledbury) and Wyche - British Camp (west) - 6 in song on June 3rd. No late sightings reported. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 491

BLACKCAP ~vb'ia atricapilla.

Jan./Feb., over-wintering birds noted at Ledbury and Tupsley (a male) and one in song at Common Hill on March 10th may well have been an over-wintering bird. The first genuine spring mi­ grants were probably the pair noted at Wellington on March 17th. Main arrival mid-April and widely reported during the breeding season. A male at Llanwarne on Aug. 25th was the last reported in late summer. During the second winter period a male was noted at SI. Owen's Cross on Dec. 16th and a female at Tupsley on Dec. 19th.

WOOD WARBLER Phy//oscoplls sihllatril:

The first reported was a single in song at Lyonshall on April 27th (AJS) but main arrival did not occur until mid - late May. Records came from Doward, Holmer area, Moccas Park, Putley, Third's Land (Malverns) and Wormbridge and undoubtedly present in suitable habitat elsewhere throughout the County.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscoplls co/{vhita.

Over-wintering birds were noted at Bredwardine on Jan. 15th (SC) and Ewyas Harold Common on Feb. 22nd (PJ). The first spring migrant reported was noted in song at Llanwarne on March 11th (PJK) and widely reported throughout the County thereafter in suitable habitat. Still in full song at Stapleton Castle on Sept. 22nd (CO) and the last reported was noted at Holme Marsh on Sept 26th (AJS's).

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscoplls tmchllw: Main arrival noted during the first week of April and well dis­ tributed throughout the County during the breeding season in suit­ able hadbitaI. The last reported were singles at Bromsash on Sept. 14th (AHE) and Newton on SepI. 15th (ROD).

GOLDCREST Regll/lIs regllllls.

Resident and breeding and widely reported throughout the year and appears to be maintaining its numbers as a result of the recent spell uf mild winlers.

FIRECREST Re,p71ltls ignicaplllw:

Dec. 14th, Bringsty Common, a male trapped in bracken Plendlilln L1{jlllliollOJ and heather Call1llla r·lI~L!;ln~.an unusual habitat for this species (SOD). 492 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa s/ria/3. Arrival earlier than usual with the first reported on May 6th at BurghiII (DJS) and thereafter widely reported throughout the County. The last reported was a single at Weston-under-Penyard on Sept. 24th (AHE).

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula .hypoJeuca.

The first reported was a single in song at Eywood NR on April 23rd (AJS). Well distributed in suitable habitat during the breed­ ing season. See also Nest-box Scheme and Ringing Reports.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalos cauda/us.

A common breeding resident widely reported throughout the year. The larger counts were: Jan. 20th, Wilton, 40; May 31st, Welsh Newton, min. 10 (MM); June 27th, Holme Marsh, 24 (AJS's); July 17th, Bredwardine, 39 (sq; July 28th - Aug. 4th, Llangarron, 10 noted daily (BB's); Sept. 22nd, Mathon GP, 25 (in two flocks) (PGG); Sept. 26th, Weston-under-Penyard, c12 (AHE); Nov., Llanwarne, max. 16 (PJK); Dec. 23rd, Bredwardine, 14 (sq.

MARSH TIT Parus palustri'"

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat.

WILLOW TIT Panlsmontanus.

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat.

COAL TIT Paflls ater.

A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and widely re­ ported throughout the year.

BLUE TIT Paflls caeruleus. A very common breeding resident. 20+ noted at Belmont tip on Aug. 6th (RHS). Sce also Nest-box Scheme Report.

GREAT TIT Paflls major. A common breeding resident.

See also Nest-box Scheme Report. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 493

NUTHATCH Slila eumpaea.

A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and widely re­ ported throughout the year. An occasional visitor to feeding sta­ tions during winter months.

See also Nest-box Scheme Report.

TREECREEPER Cerlhia familiaris.

A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and widely re­ ported throughout the year. At Yatton, near Aymestrey a pair raised 6 young in a standard front-holed nest box (DGB).

JAY OarrulusglandarilJs.

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat and widely reported during the year.

MAGPIE Pica pica. A very common and widespread breeding resident. 20+ noted regularly in Belmont area during May/June (RHS).

JACKDAW QJfVUS monedula.

A common breeding resident.

ROOK QJfVlJS fflJgllegu,£ A common breeding resident. The only rookery count came from Petty France, Wellington Heath where 62 nests counted (61 in 1989) (PGG). The larger counts reported were: June 6th, Merbach Hill, c300 (CO); Aug. 15th, Holme Marsh area, c250 (AJS's); Sept. 28th, Bromsash, c250 (AHE).

CARRION CROW QJfVlJSCOrone.

A common breeding resident.

RAVEN QJJ'VlIS corax

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat and widely reported during the year with records from Almeley, Brampton Bryan, Common Hill, Criftin Ford Bridge, Dancing Green, Dinedor, Dinmore, Ewyas Harold, Eywood NR, Fownhope, Haugh Wood, Hereford City, Holme Marsh, Letton, Llangarron, The Malverns, Michaelchurch, Moccas, Newton, Olchon Valley, Rowlestone, St. Margaret's, Stapleton Castle, Titley and Welsh Newton. 494 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

STARLING S/umus vU{f[ari~.

A common breeding resident and winter VlSitOr, widespread throughout the County. The larger counts were: Jan. 2nd, Lugg meadows, clOOO (IBE's); May 30th, Mathon GP, c250 of which more than half were young of the year (PGG); July 16th, Tupsley, 300+ (lBE's); Nov. 9th, Wilton Wye, c500 (AHE).

HOUSE SPARROW Passu domes/iew:

A very common and widespread breeding resident.

TREE SPARROW Passer moo/auus. Resident and breeding and noted throughout the year. The larger counts were: Jan. 23rd, Bredwardine, 19 (SC); Feb. 7th, Bishop­ stone, 15 (PJE).

CHAFFINCH Priuplla eoeleb~:

A common breeding resident and winter visitor. The largest flock reported was c150 at Pedwardine Wood (Brampton Bryan) on Feb. 20th (PGG).

BRAMBLING Fn"ngilla mou/jjhoplfa.

Feb. 7th, Bishopstone, c25 in with Chaffinch/Greenfinch flock (PJE); Feb. 23rd. Bradnor, noted feeding with Linnet flock (JMB); Feb. 25th, Ross-on-Wye, 1 in observers' garden (AN's) March 9th, Holmer a pair noted (EMA's); March 15th, Tupsley quarry, 2 (JLF); April 6th, Belmont Pool, a pair (GSB); Oct. 14th, Park Plantation, max 2 noted (per PGG); Nov. 2nd, Heathy Park, Brampton Bryan, max 7 (PGG).

GREENFINCH Carduelis chlorh:

A common breeding resident and a regular visitor to garden feed­ ing stations during winter periods. The larger counts were: Feb. 25th, Marden, c50 (PT); Feb./March, Holmer, 50 - 70 regularly noted and 20 - 30 noted in same area in late Sept. (EMA's); act. 26th, Bromsash, c25 (AHE).

GOLDFINCH Carduefis C/Jrduel/..~:

Resident and breeding and widely reported throughout the year. The larger counts were: April 10th, Ballingham, 17 (IBE's); April 26th, Hampton Park, 40+ (GSB); July 26th, Little Marcle, 20 - 30 noted (FRF); Sept. 22nd, Mathon village, 16 (PGG); act. 14th, Park Plantation, c20 (per PGG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 495

SISKIN Carduelis Spmll£ A better year for records with widespread reports during both winter periods, Jan. - April and Oct. - Dec. The larger counts were: Jan. 1st, Ruckhall, c70 feeding in riverside Alders AlnllS gllltil10sa (PGG); Jan. 23rd - 30th, Lions Den, Bredwardine, 50+ (SC); Feb. 3rd, Eywood NR, c50 (KAM); Feb. 10th, Criftin Ford Bridge, clOO (CO); Nov. 2nd, Heathy Park, Brampton Bryan, clOO and clOO in Alders beside Cradley Brook at Mathon GP on the same date (PGG); Dec. 25th/26th, Lions Den, max. 50 in riverside Alders (SC).

A pair noted carrying food in Criftin Ford area on June 14th (PG) was the first record during the breeding season since 1953 when a pair frequented a larch spinney at Brilley throughout June of that year (vide Herefordshire Birds, Walker and Smith, 1975).

LINNET CardlleJis caJ1l1abma.

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat. The larger counts were: April 2nd, Hampton Park, 150+ (GSB); April 9th, Linton, c50; April 10th, Ledbury (east side), c50 on 'set aside'; Sept. 19th, Mathon GP, c80 (PGG).

REDPOLL cardlleJisUammea.

Jan. 11th, Titley, c50 (AJS's); Jan 12th, Bridstow, 6 (WOO); Feb. 14th, Bradnor, c60 (JMB); Feb. 18th, Gimlet Wood, 5; April 7th, West of England quarry (Malvern Hills), 5 (PGG); Oct. 14th, Park Plantation, c20 (per PGG). Also noted during the year at Dinmore, Haugh Wood and Holme Marsh.

CROSSBILL Loxia C1I1VfrOStl'[J.

Compared with 1989, when only one report was received, 1990 has been a bumper year for records with flocks noted on many occa­ sions. Apart from one record in March all other sightings covered the periods June - Dec. The larger flocks were: July 9th, Nupend NR, c20 (KAM et al); July 28th, Wigmore Rolls, min. 20; Aug.27th, Pedwardine, min. 60 (NP); Sept. 24th, Lyepole, c40 (AJS's); Oct. 8th, Haugh Wood, 25 + (EAG) and flocks of 15 - 20 regularly noted at" this location to end of year (KAM); Oct. 14th, Park Plantation, 25 (per PGG); Dec. 13th Mortimer Forest, c18 in­ Douglas Fir Pselldots/{![a mel1z1~li(JHP's), 1 - 10 bords noted elsewhere at Bircher Common, Common Hill, Croft Ambrey, Ewyas Harold, HighVinnals,Holme Marsh, Little Malvern, Mordi­ ford, Much Marcle Ridgehill, Tarrington Common, Third's Land (Kettle Sings) and Wapley Hill. 496 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

BULLFINCH JYIThllla pyrrhula.

Resident and breeding and recorded throughout the year from Aymestrey SP, Belmont, Bishopstone, Brilley, Bromsash, Burghill, Dinmore, Durlow Common, Ewyas Harold, Garway, Haugh Wood, Holme Lacy, Hunderton, Leintwardine, Mansel Gamage, Mid­ summer Hill, Moccas, Newton, Sollershope, Stapleton Castle and Tupsley. Undoubtedly present in many other areas.

HAWFINCH QJccolhI7JUSleS coccolhrallsle~:

The only report was of a pair noted at Ross-on-Wye sometime in Feb. (FM).

YELLOWHAMMER EmbeIiz3 dlrinella.

A widely distributed and common breeding resident. The larger counts were: Jan. - July, Belmont tip/pool area, max. 20 (DJS/RHS); Jan. 20th, near Ross-on-Wye, 26 (IBE's); Nov. 25th, Mathon GP, 12 and the same number there on Dec. 23rd (PGG).

REED BUNTING Emberiza schoenklw:

Resident and breeding in suitable habitat and recorded through­ out the year. Nov. 11th, Mathon GP, 12 (PGG).

CORN BUNTING Miliaria caJandm.

April 6th, near Rudhall, 1 in song (KAM's); May/June, Aston Mills, pairs and singles seen and heard from time to time (AHE); June 1st, Hill of Eaton (Ross-on-Wye), noted on telephone wire and in flight (FRF). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990 4CJ7

CONTRIBUTORS TO CLASSIFIED NOms Dr. E.M. AlIen P.J. Eldridge B.K Nozedar Mrs. J. AlIen Mrs. H. Elkington Mrs. J. Parr Miss B. Bayliss Mrs. G.E. Evans N. Parsons Mrs. M. Bentley-Taylor LB. Evans G. Peplow G.S. Bilbao AH. Eveleigh Mrs. C. Port Dr. J. Birles J.L. Fox J. Port Mrs. M. Boardman Mrs. J.V.Fox Mrs. R. Powell Dr. D.G. Boddington Mrs. ER. Francis Queenswood Rangers Rev. D.J. Bowen P. Gardner Miss J. Rarnsey Mrs. F. Bradley P.G. Gamer RW. Rosevear P.G. Bradley G.L. Gay V.G. Rye Mrs. A Bray Mrs. J. Gray AT. Salway B. Bray EA Gillard C.W. Sheldrake Mrs. J.M. Bromley D. Griffiths DJ.Small Mrs. E Burge R Griffiths RH. Small Lord Cawley Mrs. N. Hadfield Mrs. A Smith J. Cebo K Ham AJ. Smith J.B.D. Colley T.Hulme G.N.Smith S. Coney Mrs. G. James Mrs. J. Smith Mrs. P. Cross P.Jinmain H.Snell N. Dance Mrs. P.J. Kent AA Stewart T. Davies Miss W. Lindsay-Scott D. Thomas Miss W.O. Davies A Marchant Mrs. J. Thomas RG. Deane F.W. Marston P. Thomson Mrs. M. Dees Mrs. E Martin J. Turner S.G. Dodd R Maskew D. Walker P. Downes Mrs. C. Mason M.P. Walkins Mrs. J. Downes KA. Mason J.H. Watkins B. Draper E.A. Morgan D. Welch R Dent Mrs. M. Morgan Dr. W.D.H. Wince B. Dwyer A. Newby Mrs. H. Dwyer Mrs. A Newby

REPORT EXCHANGES Brecknock Wildlife Trust. Bristol Natural History Society. Derbyshire Ornithological Society. Gloucester Naturalists' Trust. Gwent Ornithological Society. Shropshire Ornithological Society. Wiltshire OrnithologicalSociety

ASSOCIATIONS TO WHICH THE CLUB IS AFFILIATED British Trust for Ornithology. Hereford Nature Trust. Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Woolhope Club. 498 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1990

HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 30TH NOVEMBER, 1990 1989 1990 Income 179 Sale ofPublications U 16 Sale of Bird Food 158 Donations 103 372 Building Society Interest and Dividend 473 1,572 Subscriptions 1,688

£2,297 £2,276 Deduct: Expenditure: 132 Printing and Stationery 124 948 Annual Report (including adjustment 1,138 for previous year) 279 Postage and Telephone 288 260 Meeting Expenses 397 53 Affiliation Subscriptions 59 50 Insurance 75 150 Donations 1,872 2,081

£425 Surplus for the year £195 1,669 Surplus at 1st December 1989 2,094

£2,094 General Funds at 30th November 1990 £2,289 2,700 Add: Special funds, brought forward 2,700

£4,794 Accumulated Funds at 30th November 1990 £4,989

Accumulated funds at 30th November 1990 represented by:

£4,635 Deposit with Abbey National Building £5,109 Society 1,059 Bank Balance less 1991 subscriptions in 880 advance

100 shares in Abbey National - Bonus Issues (Market Value £220) £5,694 £5,989 900 Deduct - Liability (estimated cost of 1,000 (Annual Report)

£4,794 £4,989

I. T. STONE, (Hon. Treasurer)

I have audited the above ACcounts and in my opinion they show a true and fair view of the General Account Surplus for the year ended 30th November, 1990 and of the Club's assets at 30th November, 1990.

T. Davies, 22nd December 1990 (Chartered Accountant)