Skomer Island Wildlife Report 2016

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Published by:

The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales The Nature Centre Fountain Road Tondu Bridgend CF32 0EH 01656 724100 [email protected] www.welshwildlife.org

For any enquiries please contact:

Skomer Island c/o Lockley Lodge Martins Haven Marloes Haverfordwest Pembrokeshire SA62 3BJ 07971 114302 [email protected]

Skomer Island National Nature Reserve is owned by Natural Resources Wales and managed by The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. More details on visiting Skomer are available at www.welshwildlife.org. Seabird monitoring on Skomer Island NNR is supported by JNCC.

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Table of Contents Skomer Island Bird Report 2016 ...... 2 Island rarities summary 2016 ...... 2 Skomer Island seabird population summary 2016 ...... 3 Skomer Island breeding landbirds population summary 2016 ...... 4 Systematic list of birds ...... 6 Rarity Report ...... 85 Systematic checklist of the birds of Skomer Island ...... 88 Skomer Island Moth Report 2016 ...... 93 Annual summaries ...... 94 Systematic checklist of the moths of Skomer Island ...... 119 Skomer Island Butterfly Report 2016 ...... 129 Systematic list of Butterflies ...... 129 Skomer Island Cetacean Report 2016 ...... 137 Systematic List of Cetaceans ...... 138 Skomer Island Reptiles and Amphibians 2016 ...... 142 Systematic list of Reptiles and Amphibians ...... 143

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Skomer Island Bird Report 2016 Jason Moss Assistant Warden

The island was manned between 28th February and 28th November. During this time, a total of 165 bird species were recorded, the highest year total of the last nine years at least, improving on the 159 seen in 2015 and the 164 in 2014. A total of five additional subspecies were confirmed during the year.

Island rarities summary 2016

Species Island status Last recorded Gull-billed Tern 1st island record NA Great Egret 2nd island record 2015

Long-tailed Duck 3rd island record 1998 Pallas’s Warbler 4th and 5th island records 2011 Sabine’s Gull 4th island record 2015 Serin 6th island record 2009 Little Ringed Plover 7th island record 2011 Dotterel 7th island record 2008 Greylag Goose 7th and 8th island records 2009 Blue-headed Wagtail 8th island record 2015 Black-headed Bunting 9th island record 2015 Common Nightingale 9th island record 2015 Nightjar 13th island record 2012 Woodchat Shrike 13th and 14th island records 2004 Melodious Warbler 15th island record 2014

In addition to these island rarities, a host of scarce species were recorded, including Greater White-fronted Goose (6), Barnacle Goose (4), Garganey, Sooty Shearwater (8), Balearic Shearwater (11), Osprey (1), Little Stint (3), Black Tern (19), Little Gull, Wryneck (6), Great Spotted Woodpecker, Hobby, Red-backed Shrike, Firecrest (4), Yellow-browed Warbler (10), Icterine Warbler (2), Bullfinch, Snow Bunting, Lapland Bunting (13) and Ortolan Bunting.

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Skomer Island seabird population summary 2016

Twelve species of seabird regularly breed on Skomer. In terms of numbers, 2016 was a good year for Fulmars and Puffins but not so good for the remainder of species. Guillemots were not counted (whole-island) in 2016, however the standard population plot counts were done and all other species were counted (whole- island). Most, however, had reasonable breeding success, with a combination of very few severe weather events during the breeding season and good local feeding contributing to good productivity for most species.

Species and count units Totals for 2016 Totals for 2015 % change from 5 year % 2015 change Fulmar (AOS) 675 584 +15.58 +49.01

Cormorant (AON 4 7 -42.86

Shag (AON) 6 4 +50 +20

Lesser Black-backed Gull (AON) 6836 7630 -9.1 -19.75

Herring Gull (AON) 321 377 -14.85 -19.95

Great Black-backed Gull (AON) 108 123 -13.8 +12.5

Black-legged Kittiwake (AON) 1477 1546 -4.46 -7.34

Guillemot (IND)* - 23746 - -

Razorbill (IND) 7250 7489 -3.19 +45.85

Puffin (IND) 22539 21349 +5.57 +96.04 Data on the seabirds breeding season has been compiled from the Skomer Seabird Report 2016.

*Not Censused in 2016

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Skomer Island breeding landbirds population summary 2016

The below data was collected by island staff during the breeding season, mostly through the annual Breeding Bird Survey, mapping territories along set transects across all parts of the island at least three times between mid-April and mid-June. In addition, many breeding territories are noted during the daily patrol and wardening of the nature reserve.

A total of 34 species of ‘landbird’ bred on Skomer this year. Goldfinch bred on the island for the first time. This is the most recent new addition to an ever-growing list of breeding bird species on the island, most recently following the addition of Water Rail in 2013, Chiffchaff in 2012, Tufted Duck in 2005 and Barn Owl in 2004.

Species Total for 2016 Total for 2015 5 year % change Canada Goose (AON) 21 29 -7.9 Shelduck (AOT) 3 1 +200 Mallard (AOT) 3 3 -31.8* Shoveler (AOT) 2 2 +11.8 Pheasant (AOT/IND) 14 8 -

Common Buzzard (AON) 3 5 -31.8 Peregrine (AOT) 3 3 0 Common Moorhen (AOT) 5 5 -13.8 Oystercatcher (AOT) 66 73 +13.4 Eurasian Curlew (AOT) 3 3 -16.7 Woodpigeon (AON) 2 4 -47.4 Short-eared Owl (AON) 2 2 -23.1 Little Owl (AON) 1 1 0

Skylark (AOT) 7 6 -5.4 Barn Swallow (AON) 7 10 -5.4 Meadow Pipit (AOT) 115 107 +45.2

Rock Pipit (AOT) 19 14 -15.6*

Pied Wagtail (AON) 3 3 -31.8

Dunnock (AOT) 19 16 +28.8 * European Stonechat (AOT) 3 2 +275 Northern Wheatear (AOT) 27 18 +73.1 Blackbird (AOT) 2 2 -60 Common Whitethroat (AOT) 14 22 -27.1 Sedge Warbler (AOT) 40 40 +7.5 Common Chiffchaff (AOT) 0 1 -100

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Wren (AOT) 71 52 +21.6 Magpie (AOT) 5 6 -25.9* Red-billed Chough (AOT) 4 3 +17.6 Western Jackdaw (AOT/IND) 28 53 - Carrion Crow (AON) 11 11 +31 Common Raven (AON) 8 8 +81.8 Common Linnet (AOT) 6 1 +2900 European Goldfinch (AOT) 1 0 - Reed Bunting (AOT) 4 5 -4.8 * - Figure obtained from past four years of data, due to census not being performed in 2011

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Systematic list of birds Jason Moss & Edward Stubbings

Status categories Vagrant – one to 10 records Rare – 11 to 40 records Scarce – one to five records per year Uncommon – six to 50 records per year Fairly common – 51 to 250 records per year Common – 251 to 1000 records per year Abundant – 1001 to 2500 records per year Very abundant – more than 2500 records per year

Note: Status’ are given in an island context, not a national context.

Breeding categories Very rare breeder – one to 10 breeding records Rare breeder – 11 to 40 breeding records Scarce breeder – one to five breeding records per year Uncommon breeder – six to 50 breeding records per year Fairly common breeder – 51 to 250 breeding records per year Common breeder – 251 to 1000 breeding records per year Abundant breeder – 1001 to 2500 breeding records per year Very abundant breeder – more than 2500 breeding records per year

Count units and terminology used in this report AOS – Apparently Occupied Site AON – Apparently Occupied Nest AOT – Apparently Occupied Territory IND – Individual

BBRC – British Birds Rarities Committee WRP – Welsh Records Panel NRW – Natural Resources Wales

List of contributors mentioned within the report

Name Initials Name Initials Name Initials Eddie Stubbings EMS Dave Boyle DB David Astins DA Jason Moss JWM Ted Wallen TW Bee Bueche BIB Elisa Miquel Riera EMR Mike Wallen MW Leighton Newman LN Ollie Padget OP Sula Riedlinger SR

Notes The species order for this systematic list is taken from ‘The British List’ published by the BOU in Jan 2013. Cover photo – ©

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Greater White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Rare. Twenty-one previous records, involving at least 147 individuals. Of those identified to race, all bar one have been Greenland White-fronted Geese A. a. flavirostris. One European White-fronted Goose A. a. albifrons was recoded in May 2015.

Six White-fronted Geese were noted flying east over North Valley in the morning on 4th November (EMS). Though views weren’t quite good enough to clinch them to race, six Greenland White-fronted Geese were reported hours later at Marloes Mere, and it would be safe to assume that these were the same. This represents the 22nd Skomer record of the species.

Greater White-fronted Geese over North Valley, 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Greylag Goose Anser anser Vagrant. Six previous records, involving nine birds. Last recorded 2009

The autumn produced a string of records of this ‘rare vagrant’ goose, with the first record involving one on North Pond with Canada Geese on 17th September (EMS), followed by two on 27th. October then saw more sightings, beginning with one on 17th, followed by two coming to roost on North Pond with Canada Geese between 24th and 29th. Though it is impossible to say for sure, it seems likely that all of the year’s records involved the same two returning visitors.

Greylag Goose, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Canada Goose Branta canadensis Uncommon breeder. First bred 1993

Present throughout. A total of 21 pairs nested on the island in 2016, this being a significant decline on the 29 nests of 2015. The five-year trend for this species is one of slight decline (-7.9%), though the population has increased by 26.5% overall during the past 10 years. Birds were noted as being paired up and on territory by

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25th March at least. The first eggs were found on 1st April at North Pond and the first goslings on 3rd May. No chicks were thought to have fledged.

Numbers dwindled dramatically in August as birds departed the island to moult, with only between two and six birds being noted on 13 days between 7th August and 6th September. Thereafter numbers increased significantly as birds commuted back and forth from the mainland. Numbers exceeded 200 on four dates during this period, which is notable considering that autumn totals haven’t exceeded 200 since 2012.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Max count 12 28 25 20 42 39 55 350 240 176 Table 1. Monthly maxima of Canada Goose 2016.

Figure 1. Population trend of Canada Goose on Skomer 1960-2016.

Canada Goose, Green Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

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Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare. Twenty previous records. Last recorded 2015

There were two records this year. The first concerned a group of three which appeared briefly on North Pond on 29th April (JWM). These were followed by a singleton on 31st October (EMS).

Barnacle Goose, North Pond 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Rare. Twenty previous records involving 172 individuals (at least 15 dark-bellied, 100 pale-bellied). Last recorded 2015

There was one record this season, concerning a flock of 25 birds of the dark-bellied ‘Bernicla’ race noted flying past Skomer Head by an overnight guest on 28th April.

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Scarce breeder (maximum two pairs). First bred 1969. Scarce migrant

Three pairs nested on the island this year, this being the highest total on record. The first brood of five young were noted on North Pond on 25th May, followed shortly by a brood of eight sharing the same pond. These two broods merged to form a creche of 13 on 30th May, all tended by one pair of adults. The group dwindled to 12 on 9th June, and moved to Moorey Mere on 12th June. On the 13th the group were present on Moorey Mere in the morning, but at midday they were absent, with two adults flying around the Wick. There was no further sign of the young. A third brood of six was noted to be taken by Gulls at High Cliff on 4th June. The first record of the year concerned a pair which arrived on North Pond on 4th March, followed by near daily sightings from 12th, involving between two and eight birds. There were only two more sightings following the departure of the breeding birds, involving singles on 22nd June and 30th October.

Shelduck family, North Pond 2016. M. Wallen ©

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Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope Uncommon migrant

There were no spring records. The first of the autumn involved a single which arrived on North Pond with Canada Geese on 18th September. This was followed by singles on North Pond on 4th and 7th October and between one and five on eight dates in November, finishing with one on 26th November.

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca Rare and sporadic breeder (maximum two pairs). First bred 1968. Fairly common, sometimes common migrant

The first eight of the year were noted on 1st March on Moorey Mere, followed by between two and 21 birds (spring peak count) on most days until 18th April. After this, sightings became less frequent, with only as many as three seen on four dates during the latter part of the month. Following a break in sightings two appeared on North Pond on 15th June, lingering until 17th. The first migrant juveniles were noted on 29th July, with two on North Pond, though things didn’t really pick up until the second half of August, when between one and 12 were seen daily after 14th. This trend continued, with between four and 18 daily through September until 4th October, when numbers began to increase further. Between four and 41 birds (autumn peak count) were noted on most days during the month, and similarly through November, until the warden’s departure.

Teal, North Pond 2016. E. Stubbins ©

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Uncommon breeder (maximum 18 pairs 1978 and 2000). Fairly common migrant

A minimum of three pairs bred this year, this being the same as in 2015, though there has been a 31.8% decline over the last four years. The first brood of six ducklings was seen in North Valley on the early date of 14th March, shortly followed on 27th March by a brood of 11. Another brood of 12 small ducklings were noted at Captain Kites on 18th April (being followed closely by a Raven), with possibly the same brood remarkably seen on 20th at Moorey Mere, and again in South Stream on 21st (only nine this time). Possibly a different brood of nine were seen on 1st May at Green Pond, and probably the same at North Valley Crossing on 6th, with only two remaining on 11th. A different brood of 12 then appeared on Green Pond 13th May. Further sightings of variously dwindling groups of ducklings were then noted to the month’s end, with perhaps only four ducklings reaching a ‘large’ size. Remarkably, mating was noted on 3rd and 8th November.

The first record of the year occurred on 28th February, with two on North Pond. This was followed by near- daily sightings of between two and 12 birds (spring peak count) through the month, with small numbers of breeding birds continuing to be seen almost daily right through to 18th August. A break in sightings then

Page 10 followed, with nothing seen until early September when small numbers of migrants were seen sporadically, bar a flock of 26 on 14th and 27 on 17th. Sightings then became daily from 24th September, with peak counts including 62 on 27th September, 98 on 2nd October (autumn peak count) and 61 on 19th October. The final record involved 20 on 27th November.

Figure 2. Population trend of Mallard on Skomer 1960-2016.

Mallard and family, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Garganey Anas querquedula Rare migrant. Fifteen previous records. Last record 2014

A cracking male was seen flying laps around North Pond on the morning of 9th May (JWM), before settling there for 10 minutes and then flying to the mainland.

Drake Garganey, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

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Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata Scarce breeder (maximum six pairs). Uncommon migrant

Two pairs were confirmed to have bred, with two broods of ducklings (families of seven on Green Pond and one in Jack Sound) seen on 28th May. This is the same number of pairs as 2015, with the population unchanged over the last four years. The first record this year involved a singleton on 18th March, with another single on 22nd. The first multiple occurrence involved three birds on North Pond (two males, one female) on 4th April, hailing the start of near daily sightings of the breeding population. Between one and four were present almost daily then until the end of May. Only two sightings in June, of two on 8th and one on 23rd. One record in July of one on 25th. Near- daily sightings of between one and 10 birds (autumn peak count) then followed from the second half of August, representing the start of autumn migration. Between one and 10 continued to be noted on most days from here until the warden’s departure.

Shovelers, male and female with brood, 2016. J. Moss (above) and M. Wallen (below) ©

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Rare and sporadic breeder. Last proven breeding 2007. Scarce to uncommon migrant

The first record concerned a male on North Pond on 28th March, with a further pair there on 8th April. Finally, one was seen on 9th November. This follows a blank year in 2015.

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Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Vagrant. Two previous records. November 1989 and January 1998

Certainly, one of the rarest island birds to occur this year, one female-type was found on the sea in South Haven in the afternoon on 20th October (EMR, EMS). It only lingered for about 15 minutes, before flying west past the Mew Stone and out of sight.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Common migrant

First noted on 29th February, with 18 seen. March then produced three sightings of 18 on 1st, 12 on 11th and 13 on 28th, all in St Brides Bay. One April record concerned 11 past Skomer Head on 30th, while June saw four sightings including seven on 12th, 15th on 13th, 40 on 25th and 15 on 26th. Noted on seven dates in July, with peak counts of 20 on 22nd and 40 on 29th. Nine records in August included peaks of 15 on 8th and 15th and 20 past the Garland Stone on 30th, while September produced sightings on 13 dates and peaks of 61 on 13th (peak year count), 42 on 15th and 42 past the Garland Stone on 30th. The final records of the season came in November, with 18 on 5th and 15 on 23rd.

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Uncommon breeding resident. Released for shooting during 19th century with population surviving today

Present throughout the season, with 14 territories mapped during the breeding season. The first nests were found in Young Ground on 24th May, with hatched eggshells in another nest on 28th May.

Peak spring counts all came in March (before vegetation had grown too tall), these being 12 on 6th, 18 on 12th and 14 on 17th. The peak autumn counts occurred in November, with 25 on 8th and 34 on 13th. This is the highest total noted since 40 were counted on 19th November 2007.

Common Pheasant, Pigstone Bay 2016. J. Moss ©

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Scarce visitor, though uncommon in some years. Most sightings during early and late season. Probably more frequent during the winter

The first record of the year involved a single through St Brides Bay on 10th March, followed by another on 28th of the same month. The next record came on 22nd September, with one watched flying south past the Garland Stone, while one was seen and heard calling as it flew high over the North coast on 20th October, this being the last record of a decent year.

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Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Scarce visitor, though uncommon in some years. Most sightings during early and late season

One spring record, with one noted on 6th March. Sighting frequency increased in the autumn, with two October records involving a single in Broad Sound on 9th and one summer plumaged bird North past the Garland Stone on 16th, followed by three November records; one over the top of the island on 2nd, one adult in North Haven on 9th and an impressive five west, then east past North Haven on 26th.

Great Northern Diver, North Haven 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis Common breeder. First confirmed breeding 1960

675 AOS, representing a 15.58% increase on the previous year and brings the population nearly back up to the historical highs of the 90s and early 2000s. Productivity was also up from 0.35 to 0.43 chicks per AOS.

Present on the island from the start of the recording year until late September. There was a gap between the 26th September and the start of November with only the odd bird being seen from seawatches in between.

Figure 3. Population trend of Northern Fulmar on Skomer 1960-2016.

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Northern Fulmar 2016. M. Wallen ©

Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus Rare visitor. Nineteen previous records, involving 22 individuals. Most recent record July 2014

A record year for this species, with two records involving eight birds. The first record involved seven which were logged during a seawatch in good conditions off the Garland Stone on 4th September, while a singleton was noted flying North past the Garland Stone on 16th October. This represents the highest year total for this species on Skomer, with the next highest total being of four in 2011.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Very abundant breeder, largest colony in the world

Within the shearwater census plots the number of responses was up slightly on 2015 as were the total number of burrows. Breeding success in 2016 was 0.63 per pair in the Isthmus study plot, slightly above the 20-year average, while adult survival over the winter 2014-15 dropped sharply to just 71% compared with the average of the previous ten years of 87%. Figure 4. Population trend within Manx Shearwater plots on Skomer 1998-2016.

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Manx Shearwater, St Brides Bay 2016. J. Moss ©

Balearic Shearwater Puffinus mauretaincus Rare visitor, though in recent years has become a scarce to uncommon migrant. Twenty-seven previous records involving 39 individuals, most recently 2015, when two were noted

A record year, with nine records, involving 12 birds. A remarkably early record concerned one seen from the Dale Princess in Jack Sound on 13th April. More seasonally, the first autumn records came in August, with one past the Garland Stone early on 8th, another past there on 20th and yet another during a seawatch on 21st. Four records in September during seawatches involved three past the Garland Stone and one off North Valley Outfall on 4th, two on 12th and singles past the Garland Stone on 13th and 14th, these being the last of the year. This represents a record year total for the species, with the previous highest annual totals including nine birds in 2006 and five birds in 2012.

European Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus Fairly common breeder. Full census conducted 2016

To contribute towards the next national seabird count, funding was secured from NRW to undertake a whole- island census of European Storm Petrels on both Skokholm and Skomer in 2016. The Skomer population was estimated at 220 Apparently Occupied Sites (95% CL: 195-252), which seems stable since 2003/4 when the last whole-island census took place (Brown 2006).

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Very abundant visitor. Abundant breeder on nearby Grassholm

Recorded virtually daily throughout the season, this majestic seabird was ever-present, with Skomer being so close to Grassholm, the third largest Gannetry in the UK. Monthly maxima are reported below in table 2. A clear reduction in sighting frequency was apparent through October and November, presumably reflecting the departure of the Grassholm population.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Max count 30 63 35 92 71 70 96 138 20 5 Table 2. Monthly maxima of Northern Gannet.

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Northern Gannet, 2016. J. Moss ©

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Uncommon breeder. Fairly common migrant

The Cormorant colony on the Mew Stone unexpectedly moved in 2016, from the southern face to the western corner. This meant that the nesting birds were much more visible and could be viewed from land. However, only four pairs made nests which is a drop of almost 50% on the previous year. Cormorants therefore remain at a low level since the highs of the 1980’s. Six chicks were seen on the 12th June and all six were seen as fledged on the 22nd July. This gives a productivity figure of 1.5 chicks fledged per nesting pair.

Figure 5. Population trend of Great Cormorant on Skomer 1960-2016.

Great Cormorant colony, Mew Stone 2016. J. Moss ©

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European Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Uncommon breeder, with majority breeding on nearby Middleholm

In the 1960s/70s the Shag colony on Skomer was concentrated on Shag Hole Bay, on the North side of The Neck. Over a period of years these moved to Middleholm and by the early nineties Shags had more or less ceased to breed on the main part of Skomer. A few pairs, however, have continued to breed on the North coast of Skomer, at the base of Double Cliff, and on the Garland Stone. In 2016, there were two nests on the southern face of the Mew Stone, close to nesting Cormorants and in a place not used by Shags in recent times. Several visits were made by boat to the colony near Double Cliff in June and July and 4 AONs were identified. This may be an underestimate as nests are well hidden and difficult to observe. With the two nests on the Mew Stone, six nests in total were found in 2016 which is an increase of 50% on the four found last year.

Figure 6. Population trend of European Shag on Skomer 1960-2016.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Rare visitor. Twenty-one previous records, involving 24 individuals. First recorded 1996. Last recorded 2015

Two records this year, both coming in October. The first was noted flying over the Farm at dusk on 11th, while another single was seen on 26th.

Great Egret Egretta alba Vagrant. One record, May 2015

Following the first island record in 2015, another came hot on its heels, with one seen flying NE over South Haven at 11:50 on 14th September (BIB). Perhaps this will become a feature of the next few years, as the UK breeding population continues to grow.

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Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common migrant

The first record this year unfortunately concerned one found dead at North Pond on 23rd March. The first live record was of one on 22nd April. This was followed later by four records of singles in June, four singles in July, five singles in August, one at the start of September, six singles in October plus two on 4th and three on 3rd, these being the highest count of the year, and also the final records of the season.

Red Kite Milvus milvus Scarce migrant. First record 1995, annual since 2010

Ten records, involving 15 birds. The first record concerned one 1st summer over North Pond on 30th April, this being followed in May by singles on 3rd and 30th (the latter being another 1st summer). The next records didn’t come until October, when singles were noted on 2nd, 3rd and 10th, two on 13th, one on 21st and a group of five on 22nd. The last record came on 24th November, with a juvenile drifting overhead.

Year 1995 2004 2008 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Records 1 1 3 2 5 6 8 2 16 10 Individuals 1 1 3 2 5 8 15 2 61 15 Table 3. Number of records and individuals of Red Kite noted on Skomer since the first in 1995.

Red Kite, 2016. J. Moss ©

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce migrant

A record year, with seven records (six in 2015). The first of the year involved a female-type which was sighted high over the farm on 16th May, followed on 23rd by two; one west at 09:20 and another west at 10:00. Another female-type was seen over Moorey Mere on 18th August. October produced a series of records, with presumably the same juvenile lingering between 2nd and 5th, one 12th, 13th and 15th (possibly all the same) and a juvenile (possibly male) over North Haven on 23rd, this being the last record of the season.

Marsh Harrier, 2016. J. Moss ©

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Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Uncommon migrant

Present on the warden’s arrival to the island, with a ringtail by the farm on 28th February, and March continuing to host possibly the same ringtail, with sightings on 14 dates. April then produced sightings of potentially the same bird on 16 dates, with the last sighting of the spring coming on 22nd April. The first of the autumn arrived on 19th September, with one seen in the morning over the central fields. October and November then produced near daily sightings, with birds coming to hunt and roost on the island. Though most sightings only involved singles, two birds were confirmed on nine dates, and three birds were seen on 19th November. Interestingly, one of these autumn birds was found to be regularly commuting back and forth between Skokholm and Skomer, with the presence of a BTO ring confirming this.

Hen Harrier, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Uncommon migrant, though can be fairly common in some years

The first of the year arrived on 13th March, with potentially the same bird remaining until 15th. Further singles were then seen on four more dates during the month. April produced sightings of between one and two on 14 dates. May then produced only two records, of one on 5th and 6th. Following a break in sightings, birds were noted on 15 dates in August, mostly involving between one and two birds, but for four on 29th and three on 31st. Recorded on 18 September dates, again mostly involving between one and two birds, but for a minimum of five on 30th. Between one and two were seen on 23 dates in October, and finally November produced 10 sightings of singles, finally with one on 26th.

Of behavioural note, one was noted taking a Sand Martin over Green Pond on 2nd April. A juvenile female caught a Whitethroat on 14th, followed by a female which fed on a pheasant, which it may have caught itself, on 29th and one which took a Sedge Warbler on 30th August. Additionally, one dropped onto a Moorhen at East Bog on 30th September, but probably failed to dispatch it. On 28th October one was watched frantically dashing around a small Elder bush, attempting to catch a Wren which easily evaded capture on numerous occasions.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk, 2016. J. Moss ©

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Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Scarce breeder, though uncommon in some years (maximum eight pairs 1954). Fairly common migrant, particularly in the autumn

Only three pairs nested this year, the lowest total since 2012. Pairs nested at Robert’s Wick, Pigstone Bay and the Waybench. First noted displaying on 5th March, mating at Bull Hole (though breeding was not confirmed here, even though at least one pair has been present at this location for at least the last three years) on 13th April, incubating at Pigstone Bay on 14th April, Chicks at Pigstone Bay on 13th May and first fledglings on 20th July.

Noted on the warden’s arrival, with nine counted on 28th February. Thereafter counts of between one and 13 were noted daily, though October saw numbers rise markedly as birds arrived to take advantage of the Manx Shearwater fledging period. Between six and 15 was typical during this period, with higher counts of 24 on 2nd, 20 on 5th, 16 on 11th, 20 on 15th and 18 on 22nd. Between two and 14 were noted throughout November, with three on 28th being the last sighting of the year.

It was of note that Puffin remains were seen in the nest at Robert’s Wick on 4th July.

Figure 7. Population trend of Common Buzzard on Skomer 1946-2016.

Common Buzzard, 2016. J. Moss ©

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Osprey Pandion haliaetus Rare migrant. Twenty-one previous records, last noted August 2014

Two records this year, with a bird noted flying west over North Haven at 08:20 on 15th April. Another flew north over the Neck and then North Valley on 24th May (JWM, EMS), continuing towards St Bride’s Bay, having previously been seen passing over Skokholm. These are the first records since 2014, and only the second since 2006.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Very rare breeding species, one record 2013. Fairly common migrant

First noted on 29th February, having likely wintered on the island. Noted fairly frequently then throughout March, April and May, with the final spring sighting coming on 28th May. Most days produced either the sight or sound of single birds, but higher counts included three on 5th, 17th and 20th March and four on 11th April. The first autumn arrival concerned two on 18th August, with further sightings on five dates during the rest of the month, including four on 25th. Sightings of between one and nine birds then became a nearly daily feature until the end of the season, but for the highest count of the year of 11 on 18th October.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Uncommon breeder, though scarce in some years

Present throughout the season, with five pairs nesting, this being the same as last year. The first eggs were found on 21st April and first chicks on 21st May.

Autumn counts were highest, with the population being bolstered by fledged juveniles. Peak counts include 34 on 18th, 27 on 25th, 31 on 26th and 38 on 27th August and 27 on 17th September.

Figure 8. Population trend of Moorhen on Skomer 1946-2016.

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Juvenile Moorhen, Chicken Sheds 2016. J. Moss ©

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostrelagus Fairly common breeder

Present throughout the season, with 66 breeding pairs mapped. This is slightly down on the 73 of 2015. However, over the last five years the species has shown a 13.4% increase on the island. The first pairs began prospecting on the plateau of the island on 8th March, first eggs on 19th April, first chicks on 22nd May and first large chicks on 31st May.

Peak spring counts in March included 130 roosting at South Stream (1st), 60 there on 5th, 51 on 13th, 70 on 18th, 100 on 20th, 74 on 21st, 58 on 22nd and 50 on 31st. April produced peaks of 80 on 7th, 107 on 9th and 97 on 10th, though it was evident that the birds were pairing up at this point, in addition to the roosts at South Stream, and on North pond. The autumn didn’t really produce any big counts, with the peak being 51 on 17th October.

Oystercatcher chick predation was noted by Carrion Crow and Herring Gull on 23rd May.

Figure 9. Population trend of Oystercatcher on Skomer 1960-2016.

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Oystercatcher, Harold Stone 2016. J. Moss ©

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Uncommon migrant

The first record came on 10th May, with one noted at Skomer Head, and probably the same the next day over Gorse Hill. Three records in August included two over North Pond on 24th, one at Skomer Head on 28th and two over the Farm on 30th. The sole September record was of a good group of 12 on 14th, while a good run of records through October included singles on 2nd, 4th and 6th, three on 9th, further singles on 11th, 17th and 19th, three more on 20th and another single on 22nd, this being the last of the season.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Rare migrant. Twenty-seven previous records, most recently April 2014 and three in 2015

Another good year, with three records and the third consecutive year of sightings, following a gap of nine years. The first concerned a single on 12th September, this being followed by another single on North Pond on 15th. Finally, four were noted flying southwest on 20th September.

Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Uncommon migrant. Bred annually on the island until 2000

The first of the year flew over the farm on 14th May, this being the only spring record. The first of the autumn came on 17th August, with one over North Haven. October produced four records, with one on 5th, two on North Pond on 15th, one east over the Farm on 23rd and one on 30th, while November saw one arrive on the 1st and two on 3rd.

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Figure 10. Population trend of Northern Lapwing on Skomer 1960-2016.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Vagrant. Six previous records, last recorded May 2011

One of the highlights of the season was the discovery of one of these diminutive waders on Moorey Mere late on 10th April (DA). Probably a male, the bird was not present the next day.

Little Ringed Plover, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Uncommon migrant, though scarce in some years

The first of the year was a single seen on 13th May, this being followed on 16th by an impressive flock of 12 which flew northwest over Green Pond. The next record involved one on 17th August, while September saw one on 7th, five on 15th and further singles on 20th and 21st, these being the last of the year.

Eurasian Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Vagrant. Six previous records, involving 16 individuals. Last recorded September 2008

One of the major occurrences of the season was of a flock of 12 of these mountain specialists which flew west over the Farm and Bull Hole, continuing until lost from sight to the northwest on 6th May (EMS). These birds had previously been watched flying towards Skomer from fields near Trehill Farm, being spotted over the island shortly after.

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Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Common spring and autumn migrant. Rare in winter

The first record of the year concerned two which arrived on 18th April, after which sightings of between one and 10 were not infrequent throughout April and May, until the final sighting of the spring passage of one on 3rd June. Of note during this passage were higher counts of 14 on 29th and 12 on 30th April, and 11 on 9th May. After a short break, birds on return passage began to appear, beginning with one in South Haven on 5th July, followed by counts of between one and three on four dates during the month, plus a good count of 10 on 30th. Sightings of between one and six were made on 11 dates during August, with a peak of 11 on 5th, while September saw between one and five on eight dates, with five on 15th September being the last of the year.

Whimbrel, Skomer Head 2016. J. Moss ©

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Scarce breeder. Common migrant

Present throughout, with three pairs noted as breeding on North Valley Rise, South Park and West Park. The species has undergone a 16.7% decline over the last five years, and a 45.5% decline in the last 10 years. First noted singing on 8th March, with display noted on 13th March. The first chicks were suspected on 18th May, and confirmed on 29th with one seen in South Park, followed by sightings of another chick in West Park on 14th. The first and only fledgling was noted near the Wick on 29th June, presumably coming from the South Park pair.

The breeding population was bolstered by migrants in the spring and autumn, with peak spring counts including 35 on 2nd, 27 on 8th and 29 on 15th March. Autumn migration peaks included 21 on 25th July, 29 on 19th August, 23 on 8th September and 25 on 8th and 23 on 19th October. November produced counts of between 11 and 25 on 17 dates, suggesting that a small number would be making to winter on the island. The month also produced the highest count of the year, 41 on 24th.

This species is currently at a historically low ebb, with the population over the last five years being lower than ever previously recorded. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to suspect that the species might be lost from the island as a breeding species in the near future, just as Lapwing has been lost. Interestingly, the declines of both Northern Lapwing and European Curlew commenced at around the same time that Canada Goose began breeding on the island, in 1993 (see figure 12). It could be argued that the aggressive nature and their dominance of the wet areas of the island might be implicated in the decline of these two species. However, it may also be argued that this decline could be linked with the wider decline of these species throughout Wales while changes in the islands vegetation structure during the past few decades may also be an important factor.

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Figure 11. Population trend of Eurasian Curlew on Skomer 1960-2016.

Figure 12. Population trend comparison between Canada Goose and Eurasian Curlew and Lapwing on Skomer 1960-2016.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Scarce migrant

A good year. The first record came in the spring, with five seen flying past North Pond on 29th April. The first of a good autumn run came on 28th August, with a juvenile bird lingering on North Pond between 27th and the end of the month, lingering until 3rd September. Either this or a different bird was then noted on 8th, 16th, 17th and 26th-27th of the month, these being the final records of the season.

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Black-tailed Godwit, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Scarce migrant

An excellent year for this normally scarce migrant, including a record island count. The first sighting involved one which was noted passing North Haven on 6th September. This was followed by a sighting of two on 7th and three (two on North Pond and one on Rye Rocks) on 8th, followed by an impressive 32 on 9th, involving the lingering two on North Pond and a flock of 30 over Skomer Head. This was a record count, the previous highest count being 14 in September 1988. The two on North Pond remained through to the next day, with one left on 11th, this singleton lingering through to 19th, bolstered on 12th by an impressive 13 birds.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Common migrant

First noted on 29th February, with 10 seen. Small numbers were seen on 21 dates through March, peaking at nine on 3rd and 13 on 22nd. Noted near-daily through April, again in small numbers, with peaks of 10 on 8th and nine on 16th. Sightings of 10 on 2nd, nine on 4th and one on 12th were the only May sightings, with no further records until one was seen on 2nd August. Thereafter sightings were fairly frequent (between one and 20), particularly through September onwards, with peak counts of 28 on 14th and 21 on 25th September, 22 on 3rd, 38 on 15th and 16th (years highest counts), 30 on 17th and 28 on 18th October and 22 on 9th November. Last record was of three on 27th November.

Knot Calidris canutus Rare migrant. Nineteen previous records, most recently 2015

One of these infrequently noted waders was again recorded on the island, having been seen during the past two years. The sole record concerned one which was with Turnstones in North Haven on 14th September.

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Ruff Calidris pugnax Scarce migrant. Absent in some years

There were three records this year, with singles noted on North Pond on 22nd and 24th July, plus one on 7th September.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Uncommon migrant

An excellent year. First recorded on the early date of 13th March on North Pond, followed by sightings of singles on eight dates in April, but for two on 22nd. Noted on eight further dates in May, involving singles except for two on 10th and a flock of seven on Moorey Mere on 11th. One on 15th May was the last of the spring. The first returning migrants occurred in July, with one heard on 27th and 29th. One on 8th August was the only sighting of the early part of the month, though the end of the month produced frequent records of between one and three, plus an impressive flock of 30 past North Haven on 17th, this being the biggest flock recorded since 30 in 2007. September produced sightings on 16 dates, mostly of between one and two birds, but for five on 6th and 7th and 16 on 12th. One on 29th September was the last of the year.

Dunlin, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Uncommon spring and autumn visitor. Scarce in some years

Noted three times this year, with three birds found in the usual roost site on South Castle on 24th September, plus a single with turnstones in North Haven on 27th October and finally a single seen on 10th November.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Rare migrant. Thirty-one previous records, most recently September 2014

This smart, diminutive wader provided three records this year. The first involves one juvenile which arrived on North Pond on 15th August, lingering until 21st. Another juvenile then arrived on 17th September on North Pond, being joined by another on 19th, where they lingered until 24th.

Little Stint, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

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Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Uncommon migrant

The first record of the year was of one on Moorey Mere on 15th April, this was followed by one on 27th of the month. Another one at Moorey Mere on 11th May was the only record that month, with nothing more until July when birds were recorded on seven dates, all involving singles except for two at South Stream on 16th and 17th. There were nine records in August, involving singles except for two on 5th and three on 17th, while one on 8th September was the last of the year.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Scarce migrant

A poor showing, with only two records this year. The first came when two arrived on North Pond on 16th August followed by a single there on 19th of the same month.

Green Sandpipers, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Scarce migrant

The first of the year appeared on Moorey Mere on 4th May, later relocating to North Pond. Another was noted on 8th May, these being the only spring records. The autumn saw an impressive four arrive on Moorey Mere on 15th August, followed by one on North Pond on 28th, this being the last of the year.

Greenshanks, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

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Common Redshank Tringa totanus Scarce migrant, though uncommon in some years

There were no spring records this year. The first of an excellent autumn was seen in North Haven on 6th August, with further records this month including two on 16th, one at Moorey Mere on 19th, one on 21st, four on North Pond on 24th, one on 26th and two on 29th. A single on North Pond on 8th September was the last record of the year.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Scarce migrant

There was only one record this year, involving a bird which was flushed from the North Pond research path early on the morning of 8th October.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Uncommon spring and autumn migrant, scarce in some years

The first bird of the spring was seen in North Valley willows on 11th March, followed by one at the Farm on 13th, at least six on 19th (part of a wider arrival across the Welsh islands) and one on 20th. The first of the autumn arrived on 30th October, followed by a string of records in November involving singles on 8th and 9th, three on 11th, one on 12th, two on 13th, one on 17th, two on 18th and finally one on 25th.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Common migrant

The first record of the year concerned an arrival of seven at North Pond on 4th March. Between one and four were then noted on 18 dates, with the exception of larger counts of nine on 7th and 25 on 13th. Records continued to be frequent through April, with between one and five noted on 19 dates, but for higher counts of eight on 1st and 10 on 11th. Singles on 5th and 6th May were the only records during this month, while June produced singles on eight dates, all probably relating to the same lingering bird on Moorey Mere. Singles at Moorey Mere on six dates during July may have also related to the same bird, though a sighting of five off the Garland Stone clearly involved new birds. August produced records of one on North Pond on 15th, two there on 16th and one on 18th. September saw sighting frequency increase with between one and three on 20 dates, but for seven on 13th. October and November followed a similar pattern of occurrence, with sightings of between one and eight on most dates throughout, but for peaks of 10 on 29th and 13 on 31st October and 10 on 24th November.

Common Snipe, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

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Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Scarce migrant, though uncommon in some years. Sighting frequency heavily affected by observer coverage and effort

A reasonable year with four records involving seven birds. The first of the year involved a dark morph past North Haven on 4th August, followed by three records in September; two dark morphs on 12th, one in St Brides Bay on 13th and three dark morphs past North Haven on 25th, these being the last of the year.

Great Skua Stercorarius skua Scarce migrant

A good year with six records involving 11 birds. The first record unfortunately concerned a dead bird which was unusually found in the middle of West Park on 21st March, having probably been marooned on the island at some point during the winter. The first live record of the year involved a bird seen past Skomer Head on 1st July, followed by one off the Garland Stone on 28th August, three off Skomer Head on 2nd, three on 12th and two on 14th September

Atlantic Puffin Fratercula arctica Very abundant breeder

22,539 individual Atlantic Puffins were counted in spring 2016 which is an increase on the previous year (+5.57%) and the highest total since current records began in 1988. Feeding rates were similar to 2015, with productivity bouncing back to 0.78 chicks fledged per occupied burrow in 2016, 12% higher than that of 2015, and much higher than 2014 following the severe winter storms of 2013-14. Survival of breeding adults (2014-15) was 0.905.

Figure 13. Population trend of Atlantic Puffin on Skomer 1988-2016.

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Atlantic Puffin, South Stream 2016. J. Moss ©

Razorbill Alca torda Very abundant breeder

A mean total of 7,250 individuals (range: 5,852 – 8,648) was counted in 2016 (3.19% less than 2015). There was a clear increase in abundance between the two counts. The first count, at the start of June, was down by over 1,500 individuals! By the time of the second count however, numbers had increased and surpassed the peak count from 2015. It is possible that the late return of adults to nesting sites was caused by severe weather last winter. Why this only affected Razorbills and why productivity seemed unaffected remains to be seen. Adult survival of 95% the previous winter (2014-15) shows this species recovering from a sharp drop in survival seen after the seabird wreck of 2013-14. Figure 14. Population trend of Razorbill on Skomer 1962-2016.

Razorbills, North Haven 2016. J. Moss ©

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Guillemot Uria aalge Very abundant breeder

No whole island count of Common Guillemots was made in 2016. However, study plot counts, which are thought to be representative of the whole island population were 3.68% higher than last year’s plot counts at 7,097.8 IND. Productivity of Common Guillemots within plots monitored by WTSWW was 0.63 and was 0.89 at the study site at the Amos (Sheffield University).

Figure 15. Population trend of Guillemot on Skomer 1963-2016.

Guillemots, North Haven 2016. J. Moss ©

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Rare migrant. Fifteen previous records, involving 29 individuals. Last recorded September 2011

A record year, with 16 birds noted across two days in September. The first sightings came during a day of Beaufort 6 southerly winds and rain, with at least 13 birds noted over the course of the afternoon off Garland Stone, mixing with distant mixed feeding frenzies of ‘commic’ terns and Kittiwakes (DA et.al.). The following day a boat trip in the Dale Princess produced a further three birds, again associated with mixed feeding frenzies in St Brides Bay (EMS et.al.). The previous maximum counts of this species were of 10 in August 1966 and three in September 2004.

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Black Tern, St Brides Bay 2016. J. Moss ©

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Scarce migrant, though uncommon in some years

The first record of the year involved two seen on 3rd August. September then produced three records, involving 29 West past North Haven on 5th, two past North Haven on 8th and 9 on 13th.

*Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica Vagrant

This rare southern European marsh tern was noted on 9th May (EMS, BIB), seen flying west through North Valley and continuing until lost from sight. The bird was not seen again. If accepted by the BBRC, this will represent the first Skomer record.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Scarce migrant. Possibly under-recorded, with many records of 'commic' tern in the logs likely to have mostly involved this species

In a good year for terns in general, there was one confirmed record of this species, involving 30 birds seen on 13th September.

In addition, ‘Commic’ terns (either Common or Arctic) were noted on six dates, involving 20 on 12th, 60 on 13th, three on 14th and a further three on 24th September, 13 in Broad Sound on 8th and, finally, two on 19th October.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Scarce migrant. Possibly under-recorded due to confusion with Common Tern. Records of 'commic' tern may have referred to this species

There were two confirmed records of this graceful tern, with one noted off the Garland Stone on 13th September, and a juvenile feeding off Bull Hole on 6th October.

Sabine's Gull Xema sabini Vagrant. Three previous records, November 1996, October 2011 and October 2014

A highlight of any seawatch, wherever you are. A juvenile of this beautiful pelagic gull was noted during a seawatch off North Haven early on 13th September (EMS), travelling west and soon after being seen off the Garland Stone (JWM, LN).

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Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Abundant breeder

This year’s count of 1,477 nests is a drop of 4.5% on the previous year and leaves cause for concern. Productivity was 0.65 chicks per AON, which is 15% lower than 2015. Survival was about average since 1978 at 80%. Once the breeding birds had left the cliffs, movements of birds, many of which were juveniles, were noted, mainly in September, with 60 on the 12th and 14th, 130 on the 13th and 70 on the 25th.

Figure 16. Population trend of Kittiwake on Skomer 1960-2016.

Juvenile Kittiwake, St Brides Bay 2016. J. Moss ©

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus Bred at North Pond between 1965 and 1970, maximum 25 pairs. Abundant migrant, particularly in the autumn

Noted in Skomer waters on the warden’s arrival, with 40 seen on 28th and 29th February. Noticed only sporadically during March, with records including 12 on 11th, one on 16th, two in Jack Sound on 19th and two more on 23rd. The only April record was of three on 11th. Following a period of absence, one was seen off the

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Garland Stone on 26th June. Following this, July saw sightings increase, with three on 5th, 20 on 7th, 18 on 12th, two on 13th, 26 on 14th, nine on 16th, two on 20th, four on 21st and 24th, one on 25th and finally five on 30th and 31st. A similar spread of sightings was made during August, with between one and 12 noted on most days during the month, but for a high count of 50 on 17th. Between one and 16 were noted often during September, but for 31 on 8th and 22 on 14th, while October saw between one and 17 almost daily, but for 23 on 8th and 90 on 23rd. Finally, between one and 35 were noted daily in November, but with maximum counts of at least 290 in Broad Sound on 13th (years highest count), 70 on 26th, 150 on 27th and 200 on 28th.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus Rare migrant. Fifteen previous records, (11 autumn, four spring). Last recorded November 2007

One of these dainty small gulls was noted for the first time in nine years. The record concerned a juvenile bird which was seen passing North Haven (EMS) on 13th September (during the same seawatch that a juvenile Sabine’s Gull was noted from), and later seen heading west past the Garland Stone (JWM).

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon visitor. This species has undergone a remarkable change in status, being considered a vagrant on the island (less than 10 records) as recently as 2007

Another record year for this once extreme rarity on Skomer, with 20 records (10 in 2015, 15 in 2014). First noted on the warden’s arrival to the island, with seven on 28th and 29th February in St Brides Bay. Two records then followed in March, with a 2nd winter seen on 11th and another of the same age in Jack Sound on 23rd. The next sighting didn’t occur until July, when two were seen on 24th, this being followed in August by a juvenile on 17th and 29th. September similarly produced two records, of one adult on 14th and another single on 16th. As has been the case in recent years, the number of sightings increased markedly during the last two months of the season as the gull flock in Broad Sound began to form. October produced sightings of an adult on 2nd, another on 7th, 42 birds in Broad Sound on 8th (years highest count), 16 the following day, five off the Garland Stone on 18th, one on 19th and nine on 23rd. Finally, November saw four on 5th, five on 13th and 18th and, finally, two on 28th.

Common Gull Larus canus Uncommon visitor

Noted offshore on the warden’s arrival, with three on 28th and two on 29th, these being the only spring records. The first of the autumn was noted on 16th August, followed in September by further singles on 12th and 20th. October saw a slight increase in records, with sightings of between one and five birds on nine dates during the month. November produced sightings of singles on four dates, plus six on 28th, these being the last of the year.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Very abundant (but declining) breeder

2016’s estimate of 6,936 breeding pairs is 9.1% lower than 2015. This is a 66% decrease since the population was at its peak in 1993, returning to levels last seen in the mid-1960s. Productivity was just 0.36 chicks per breeding pair. Adult survival, at 81%, dropped nearly 9% on the ten-year average.

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Figure 17. Population trend of Lesser Black-backed Gull on Skomer 1960-2016.

v

Lesser Black-backed Gulls, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 2016. J. Moss ©

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European Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common (but declining) breeder

Numbers are at an all-time low at 321 AON, a 14.85% decline on the previous year, whilst productivity was also 25% down on the previous year at 0.52. Survival of breeding adults remains low at 80%.

Figure 18. Population trend of European Herring Gull on Skomer 1960-2016.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Fairly common breeder.

Great Black-backed Gull numbers were down slightly on the previous year (13% down at 108 AONs) as was productivity at 1.44 chicks per AON (12% down on 2015). Figure 19. Population trend of great Black-backed Gull on Skomer 1960-2016.

Rock Dove/Feral Pigeon Columba livia Fairly common visitor

First noted on 5th March, with one seen. One was then seen on 19th April. Between one and seven were seen on eight dates, plus an impressive 75 on 29th. Between one and 10 were seen on seven dates in June, plus 37

Page 39 on 11th. July produced singles on four dates, plus five on 10th. August produced one on 7th, two on 26th and six on 30th. Between one and seven were noted on 10 dates in September, plus 12 on 8th. Between one and three on three dates in October, plus nine on 6th and finally, two on 14th and one on 24th November.

Stock Dove Columba oenas Previously an uncommon breeder (up to 50 territories in 1970s). Last breeding record 1988. Scarce migrant

The only record of 2016 involved one bird at the Farm on 13th March.

Figure 20. Population trend of Stock Dove on Skomer 1960-2016.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Scarce breeder, though uncommon in some years. Common migrant, particularly in late autumn

Present all season, with two pairs proven to be breeding, this being a reduction on the four pairs which nested in 2015. Additionally, the species has shown a 47.4% decline on the island over the last five years. First noted singing on 21st April, the first fledgling was seen on 16th July, with a further two ‘squabs’ at Green Pond on 25th September. In addition to the breeding population, the population was bolstered by migrating birds, particularly in the autumn. Spring migrants were detected on 15th May, with 11 noted in North Valley. Autumn passage was noted on three days in November, with 50 on 11th, 360 on 13th and 725 on 23rd.

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Figure 21. Population trend of Woodpigeon on Skomer 1946-2016.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Uncommon migrant

First recorded on 5th May, when one appeared, followed by sightings of between one and two between 8th and 13th, nine on 14th and singles on 17th, 24th and 25th. Singles were noted on eight dates during June (including a singing bird on 4th), plus a higher count of four on 10th, while July produced just the one on 5th. The final record concerned a single bird on 29th August.

Collared Dove, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Rare and sporadic breeder. Last confirmed breeding record 1991 (possibly 2002). Scarce migrant

A good year. One was noted in South Stream on 29th April, and was followed in May by one at Skomer Head on 5th and a bird heard singing west of the farm on 18th. July then produced a run of sightings, with a single bird seen on eight dates between 21st and 31st. August continued the theme, with singles noted on eight dates, involving both adults and a juvenile. In addition, two were seen on 8th. Despite the spread of records through the summer, and the presence of a juvenile in August, definite breeding evidence was lacking.

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Common Cuckoo, Gorse Hill 2016. J. Moss ©

Barn Owl Tyto alba Scarce and sporadic breeder. Last breeding record 2007

Three records in the spring concerned one bird at the Farm on 7th March, two at the Farm and North Haven on 14th April and, unusually, one which flew from the Isthmus and landed in a burrow on the Neck on 18th June. Intriguingly the bird on the 18th showed certain characteristics of the dark breasted race guttata. The autumn produced a single bird noted roosting in the workshop on 21st October and a possible sighting of one overhead after dark on 26th November.

Little Owl Athene noctua Scarce breeder. Typically, between one and five pairs, maximum six pairs 1985

One pair was known to have bred, in common with the last five years. The first two chicks were seen on 4th June on the walls west of the Farm.

The first birds were noted on 8th March, and were heard calling during the day. Singles were then seen on four dates during the month. Between one and two were then seen almost daily near the farm throughout the summer. Sightings then became more infrequent between September and November, with the last sighting of the year being of one on 26th November.

Figure 22. Population trend of Little Owl on Skomer 1946-2016.

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Little Owl, Gorse Hill 2016. J. Moss ©

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Scarce breeder, though uncommon in some years. Maximum 14 territories 1993. Uncommon migrant

First noted on 1st March, with between one and four seen almost daily thereafter as the breeding pairs settled. Two pairs nested this year, on Gorse Hill and in West Park, equal to last year. While the five and 10 year trends of this species are ones of decline (-23.1% and -39.4% respectively), the fluctuating nature of the breeding population possibly exaggerates this somewhat. Conversely, the species had a bumper breeding season, with 12 young fledging from the two nests. Birds were first noted carrying food on 15th May, with the first nest (containing eight chicks) found on 17th May, with the number of chicks found in the nest dropping to six by 21st. However, seven were seen to fledge from this nest on 17th June, so one must have been hiding on the previous visit. Five chicks were discovered near the Gorse Hill nest on 8th July, and were all believed to have fledged.

In addition to the breeding population, higher counts were made during the autumn as the islands roosts were utilised by fledged birds and/or birds from further afield. Higher counts included six on 12th, eight on 13th, six on 15th, five on 16th, nine on 25th and seven on 26th October, followed by eight on 19th, six on 20th and, finally, nine on 26th November.

Figure 23. Population trend of Short-eared Owl on Skomer 1960-2016.

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European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Historical breeder (pre 1946). Rare migrant. Twelve modern records, involving 13 individuals, most recently May 2012

One of these cryptic woodland species was discovered on the island for the first time since 2012, with one flushed from near Green Pond on 15th May (EMS). The bird roosted on the ground nearby for most of the day, allowing all to view it from a distance.

Common Swift Apus apus Common migrant

The first of the year was seen on 19th April, with another single seen the following day, followed by 10 on 28th, two on 29th and six on 30th. May then produced sightings of between one and eight on 15 dates, plus higher counts of 13 on 4th and 23rd, 18 on 26th and 10 on 29th. Similarly, between one and nine were noted on 10 dates in June, with the final sighting of the spring being of one on 26th. The first returning autumn migrants passed over in August, with one on 10th followed by three on 15th, five on 16th and 11 on 17th, followed by further singles on 20th, 27th and 29th. Singles on 21st and 26th September were the last of what was a relatively quiet year.

Common swift, 2016. J. Moss ©

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce migrant, though uncommon in some years

There were no spring records. However, the autumn was productive, probably involving at least seven different individuals. The first was discovered at the farm on 28th August, with two on 29th and 30th and one on 31st in the same area likely to be the same birds. Sightings were made throughout September, which made it rather difficult to gauge how many birds were involved. Two on 1st and 2nd and one on 4th and 5th were likely the August birds, and it cannot be ruled out that two on 7th and 10th and one every day between 11th and 17th weren’t also these same birds. One at Green Pond was intriguing on 19th, though the farm birds weren’t seen that day. However, one reappeared at the farm the following day, until 22nd. Three on 23rd (North Valley Outfall, Green Pond and the Farm) were considered to involve two new birds, with one at the farm lingering to the following day. One at the farm on 27th was thought to be new in due to its extremely mobile nature. Probably the same bird was again at the farm on 28th and 30th. Two on 2nd October included at least one new bird, and finally, one was noted on 5th and, with three days between sightings, was likely also a new bird. This appears to be the joint best showing for this species on record, with seven noted in 2004 and six in 2006.

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Wrynecks, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Rare migrant. Twenty-five previous records, of which 20 have been since 2007. Most recent record November 2014.

One record this year, with one discovered calling early in the morning on 29th August (JWM) by the Chicken Sheds. It then flew across to the Well Pond, and wasn’t seen again.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Scarce and sporadic breeder. Last breeding attempt 2013. Uncommon migrant, though fairly common in some years

The first of the year arrived on 25th March, with another seen on 28th. April then proceeded to produce sightings on 13 dates, all involving singles except for two on 26th. Seven sightings in May also involved singles except for two which were noted on 24th. Singles were noted on six dates in June, plus two on 12th, followed in July by eight records of singles, including a behavioural note of one dust bathing at the Table on 30th. Between one and two were noted on 20 dates in August, plus a record of three on 27th. Sighting frequency continued to rise in September, with between one and four birds noted on 27 dates, plus further peaks of five on 22nd and eight on 30th (year’s highest count). Noted on all bar one day during October, with between one and five noted on all bar three days, when six were seen. Between one and three were noted on 22 dates in November, with the final sighting being of one on 27th.

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Kestrel, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon migrant

First of the year was a female which was seen on 28th February. March produced six records; a female on 11th, one at Skomer Head on 17th, one at the Harold Stone on 18th, one on 23rd and 25th and at least one on 29th. Three records in April involved a female on 9th and one female at Skomer Head on 20th and 22nd. The first of the autumn arrived on 15th September, with another seen on 26th. Noted on 11 dates in October, all involving singles, except for two on 20th. Finally, November produced records of singles on 2nd and 3rd, 8th and 13th.

Merlin, North Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

Hobby Falco Subbuteo Rare migrant. Twenty-seven previous records, most recently two in 2014

There were two records this season, both offering great views. The first came on 20th April, when an adult flew over North Haven towards the mainland. The second record concerned a juvenile bird which was found on the coastal cliffs at Pigstone Bay late in the afternoon on 5th October. The bird lingered on the west coast through to 8th, during which time it was often noted hawking for migrant insects. Probably the same bird was then seen for the last time at Captain Kites on the 11th.

Hobby, Pigstone Bay 2016. J. Moss ©

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Peregrine Falco peregrinus Scarce breeder. Maximum four pairs 1998 and 2003. Uncommon migrant

Present throughout, with three pairs breeding, this population being static since 2008, when four pairs were present. Territories were held at Protheroe’s Dock, High Cliff and Double Cliff. Mating was noted at Protheroe’s Dock on 20th March, at High Cliff on 9th April and at the Garland Stone on 12th May. A 1st summer male was first noted on 14th May at Bull Hole, and was seen sporadically thereafter. The first fledged juveniles were noted on 26th June, with one at Bull Hole and another with an adult at Skomer Head. At least two were later seen on 3rd August, with further single juveniles noted on four other dates thereafter Counts of birds higher than that provided by the breeding birds alone included eight on 4th April, 10 on 14th April, nine on 18th April and seven on 5th May and 10th October.

Observations of kills include: one taking a Puffin at North Haven on 25th April, a pigeon at North Haven on 22nd May, another Puffin in flight at the Wick on 15th June, a Manx Shearwater on 14th September and a Snipe on 24th October. In addition, birds were noted hunting Corvids; particularly Jackdaws in late October, though apparently without success.

Figure 24. Population trend of Peregrine on Skomer 1946-2016.

Juvenile Peregrine, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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*Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Rare migrant. Thirty-one previous records, most recently June 2014

For the first time since 2014, this spectacular ‘butcher bird’ was noted on the island. A beautiful male was found in North Valley on 26th May (EMS). The bird showed well through the morning, at one point sharing the same willow as a Woodchat Shrike. The bird lingered the following day, and was watched singing below the farm in the morning.

Red-backed Shrike, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator Rare migrant. Twelve previous records, most recently October 2004

This species graced the island for the first time in 12 years, with two records. The first, a stunning male, was initially found in the evening on 4th May below the farm (JWM, EMR). The bird lingered through to 8th, during which time it was well appreciated by visiting birdwatchers, and was also seen singing on the final date. The second record concerned another male which arrived on 25th May (JWM) and lingered until the following day, when it shared the island with a Red-backed Shrike.

Woodchat Shrike (and Lesser Redpoll), North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Scarce breeder. Fairly common visitor from the mainland

Four pairs appear to have attempted to breed this year, at the Lantern, South Castle Beach Cave (from now on SCBC), the Basin and Payne’s Ledge, which is one more than last year’s total. At least five chicks fledged successfully, from Payne’s Ledge and SCBC. Nesting material was first noted at North Haven on 22nd April, with three pairs noted carrying material on 30th March at North Haven, the Neck and at Bull Hole. It transpired on 10th April that pairs were nest building at the Lantern and in SCBC, with birds seen entering both locations with nesting material. Displaying was noted on 16th 20th and 22nd at the Mew Stone, Pigstone Bay and Skomer Head, indicating that the west coast pair were still active. After a period of low activity, the SCBC pair were seen entering the site on 29th May, probably indicating that chicks were present. Meanwhile, a fledged chick was seen outside the Payne’s Ledge nest site on 10th June. Three fledged chicks were then noted outside SCBC on 20th June, with four noted nearby at Driftwood Bay on 28th June, all thought likely to be from SCBC. Following this, sightings of families, with varying numbers of chicks, were widespread and frequent, making it difficult to gauge if any further young were present.

Higher counts from the spring and autumn are shown below.

Date 28th Feb 29th Feb 17th Apr 9th Aug 13th Aug 27th Aug 1st Sep 2nd Sep 4th Sep 8th Sep Max count 18 15 18 25 28 22 30 20 25 25 Table 4. Peak counts of Chough 2016.

Figure 25. Population trend of Chough on Skomer 1946-2016

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Adult Chough at Wick and Family at Lantern, 2016. J. Moss © (above) and E. Stubbings © (below)

Magpie Pica pica Uncommon breeder

Present throughout the season, with five pairs breeding at Gorse Hill, Moorey Mere, North Haven, Shearing Hays and Green Pond. This is one pair down on the six of 2015, and also shows a decline of 25.9% over the last four years. The first nest was found at Gorse Hill on 18th May, containing small chicks. The first fledgling was seen on 28th May.

High counts from the year include 20 in North Valley on 8th March, 25 on 22nd and 20 on 27th September, 21 on 2nd, 26 on 9th and 20 on 18th October.

Jackdaw Corvus monedula Fairly common breeder, though not censused every year. Fairly common to common migrant

Present throughout the season, with 28 territories mapped. This is a decline on the 53 noted in 2015, though the survey method employed has its limitations, possibly leaving these figures uncertain. First noted carrying nesting material on 17th March, one was seen carrying a Slowworm on 30th April, suggesting that eggs may have hatched. Many were noted carrying food on 21st May. There was also another sighting of a Slowworm being predated on 24th May. The first fledglings were seen at High Cliff on 12th June.

A nest was seen to be predated by a Raven on 26th April.

Of further note was a bird sporting a pale collar, a plumage characteristic of one of the non-british races (‘Nordic’ C. m. monedula, ‘Russian’ C. c. Soemmerringii, or an integrade) on 27th September.

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Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Max count P 170 80 50 120 50 75 220 1300 350 Table 5. Monthly maxima of Jackdaw.

Jackdaws, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

‘Nordic’ type Jackdaw, 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Rook Corvus frugilegus Uncommon migrant

First noted in April, with two on 23rd and three on 24th. May later produced five on 5th, seven on 6th and two on 9th, these being the last of the spring. One on 24th September was the first of the autumn, with October producing 13 on 8th and one on 26th, this being the last of the season.

Rook, over the Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

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Carrion Crow Corvus corone Uncommon breeder

Present throughout the season, with eleven pairs nesting. This is equal to last year’s total, while the species has shown an increase over the last five years of 31%. First noted nest building near Skomer Head on 30th March, carrying food (a dead Puffin) at High Cliff on 8th April, and fledged young on 1st June.

High counts included 18 on 23rd March and 81 on 2nd October.

Figure 26. Population trend of Carrion Crow on Skomer 1946-2016

Carrion Crow, 2016. J. Moss ©

Hooded Crow Corvus cornix Rare migrant. Twenty-one previous records, most recently 2015

One was noted this year, at Skomer Head on 17th April. This is the fifth year in a row which the species has been recorded on Skomer.

Raven Corvus corax Scarce breeder. Fairly common autumn visitor

A consecutive record year, with eight nesting pairs matching the total of 2015. Birds bred at the Mew Stone, South Haven, the Basin, the Wick, High Cliff, the Lantern, Payne’s Ledge and Amy’s Reach. An impressive minimum of 19 young fledged. Birds were noted nest building on the first day of arrival, the 28th February,

Page 52 with the first eggs found on 6th March, first chicks on 30th March and first fledglings on 29th April. Birds were back on territories on 25th October.

Some migration was noted in the spring, with 30 on 13th, 20 on 15th and 23 on 28th March including some overhead movement. As is typical, birds began to arrive in the autumn to take advantage of the fledging Manx Shearwaters. The first hints of this arrival were of 40 at Tom’s House on 26th and 40 on 30th August. Peak high counts included 80 on 8th, 95 on 13th, 105 on 14th, 90 on 17th, 82 on 19th and 104 on 22nd September. Further hints of migration included 34 moving west early am on 19th October.

Figure 27. Population trend of Raven on Skomer 1960-2016

Ravens, Farm track 2016. J. Moss ©

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Fairly common migrant

First noted on 6th March, when one arrived. This was followed by eight on 13th and two on 14th, one on 18th, further singles on 22nd and 24th, four on 23rd, five on 25th, two on 28th, singles on 29th and 30th and two on 31st March. April produced records of between one and two on 11 dates, but for four on 3rd. Five days of singles and three on 6th were what May had to offer, with one on 15th being the last of the spring. The first of the autumn concerned a single on 25th August, followed by two on 27th, four on 29th, one on 30th and two on 31st. September produced sightings on almost all dates of between one and 15 birds, but for peaks of 17 on 22nd and 23 on 30th. October returned near daily sightings of between one and 13 birds, but with peaks of 28 on 2nd, 23 on 8th, 31 on 9th (years highest count) and 28 on 20th. Between one and three were noted on 14 dates in November, plus peaks of four on 7th and five on 8th. The last record was of one on 27th.

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Goldcrest, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce autumn migrant, though uncommon in some years (at least 65 previous records). Rare spring migrant

A good year, with five records. The first records of the year involved rare spring occurrences, with one found at Green Pond on 11th March followed by one on 12th May. The first autumn record concerned two birds found on 7th October, with one remaining the following day. Another bird was then found on 22nd of the same month, lingering through the next day. This was the last of the year.

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Fairly common autumn migrant

First noted on 6th March, with three arriving on the island. The following days saw records of two on 7th and 8th, one on 9th and two again on 10th and 11th. Another was found on 3rd May, this being the last spring record. The first of the autumn arrived on 7th October, with sightings of between one and four on a further 22 dates, but for higher counts of five on 20th and 22nd. Birds were then noted on 12 dates in November, with between one and two seen on these days, and finally being noted on 28th.

Blue Tit, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Great Tit Parus major Uncommon migrant. Scarce in some years, and occasionally absent

The only record of the year concerned two which arrived on 14th March.

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Coal Tit Periparus ater Uncommon autumn migrant, though rather sporadic. Rare in spring and summer

The first record of this smart tit involved four found on 11th October, with a further two noted on 13th of the same month. These were the only records of the year.

Skylark Alauda arvensis Scarce breeder. Previously an uncommon breeder, but is currently undergoing a drastic decline. Common migrant

A breeding species, with seven territories mapped. This is one more than that noted in 2015, but still represents a depleted population, with a 5.4% decline over the last five years. The population is at a historic low, with no real indication of recovery. First noted singing on 13th March, first fledgling heard on 16th July and seen on 17th at Calves Park, plus a further fledgling seen at Skomer Head on 20th.

Skylarks were first noted on 10th March, with one arriving on that date, and another the following day. Following this between one and seven were noted almost daily until the end of August, all likely involving breeding birds, with no spring passage noted. Only noted on five dates in September, suggesting that the majority of the breeding population had left. Autumn migration really began at the start of October, and continued through November until the end of the season. On average between one and 99 were noted most days, but for peak counts shown below.

Date 2nd Oct 10th Oct 19th Oct 20th Oct 21st Oct 26th Oct 4th Nov 11th Nov 13th Nov Max count 153 99 480 640 144 185 73 52 105 Table 6. Peak counts of Skylark.

Figure 28. Population trend of Skylark on Skomer 1960-2016

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Skylark, Bread Rock 2016. J. Moss ©

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Common migrant

The first record of the year involved five seen on 25th March, followed by eight on 30th and five on 31st. Noted on 22 April dates, normally involving low numbers of up to 25 birds, but for notably higher counts of 35 on 11th, 123 on 12th and 30 on 13th. Birds were noted on 11 dates in May, involving between one and 19 birds except for 40 on 3rd, mostly concentrated around the start of the month, with one on 30th being the last of the spring. The first of the autumn began passing through on 6th July, with three noted followed by two on 14th and 18th, 33 on 19th, 15 on 21st, two on 25th and 26th and four on 30th. The rest of the autumn was fairly slow, with between one and six noted on 14 days in August, September and October, but for higher counts of 10 on 5th and 16th August. In addition, during a day of good hirundine passage on 14th September, several timed counts were used to extrapolate a day total. Seven noted during these timed counts were extrapolated to an estimated 102 passing between 09:30 and 18:00. The last record of the year was of three on 7th October.

Sand Martin with Swallows, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Uncommon breeder. Very abundant migrant

A total of seven pairs bred this year, this being a drop on the 10 which bred last year. Nesting material was first noted being carried on 14th May, first chicks on 21st June and first fledglings on 28th June. Several second broods were attempted from 26th July, though productivity for these was rather poor.

First recorded on 23rd March, with three seen, followed by seven on 25th, five on 30th and two on 31st. Noted almost daily from April onwards as the breeding birds settled. Birds continued to migrate through the island, sometimes in large numbers, with peak counts shown below, though between one and 90 was typical. Spring passage finished in early June, with the last migrants being 15 on 1st June. Return autumn migration commenced on 18th July, with the last of the year being seen on 20th October. Note – counts on 3rd May and 14th and 27th September were the result of extrapolation from five minute counts spread evenly through the day from fixed vantage points.

Date 17th Apr 18th Apr 30th Apr 3rd May 5th May 6th May 14th May 15th May 16th May 21st May Max count 116 340 171 3108 200 210 160 120 130 140 Table 7. Peak Spring counts of Barn Swallow.

Date 18th Aug 28th Aug 29th Aug 14th Sep 15th Sep 27th Sep 30th Sep 2nd Oct 7th Oct 9th Oct Max count 160 122 170 2958 160 11040 218 267 470 250 Table 8. Peak Autumn counts of Barn Swallow.

Figure 29. Population trend of Barn Swallow on Skomer 1959-2016

Barn Swallows, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

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House Martin Delichon urbicum Bred during the late 1960's/early 1970's. Common migrant

The first of the season arrived on 1st April, with one appearing around the farm during a storm. Noted on 14 further dates during the month, normally involving between one and eight individuals, but for a peak of 15 on 23rd. Seen virtually daily through May, with typical counts of between one and 29, plus peaks of 38 on 6th and 46 on 23rd (years highest count). Between one and five were noted on six dates in June, all during the first half of the month. One was seen on 5th July, followed in August by eight on 6th, three on 12th, one on 15th, five on 16th and one on 29th. September passage was similarly slow, with sighting of six on 1st, one on 7th, eight on 14th, two on 15th, one on 17th and 26th and six on 27th. Finally, October produced two records, involving good counts of 29 on 7th and 23 on 9th.

*Pallas's Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus Vagrant. Three previous records, November 2000 (two individuals) and October 2011

One of the clear highlights of this year was the appearance of two of these seven-striped sprites on the island. The first was found at the Farm at lunchtime on 27th October (JWM). The bird showed extremely well and was actively feeding in Elders behind the farm. Unfortunately, after being left alone for about two minutes, it was never seen again. Fortunately for the island wardens, another was discovered in South Stream on 13th November (EMS), where it also showed well at dusk.

Pallas’s Warbler, South Stream 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Scarce autumn migrant. Forty-seven previous records, most recently nine in 2015

Another record year, featuring 10 birds, which also included a record day count. The first of the year was found in North Valley Willows on 21st September, this being the first Welsh autumn record, in common with last year. This bird lingered into the next day. The next record wasn’t until 5th October, when two arrived. There were four on the island on 7th (a record day count), perhaps including two of the birds from 5th. One remained until 10th, with two on 11th including a new arrival. Two on 12th included a bird on the cliffs at Pigstone Bay which appeared likely to be new in. One of these remained on 14th. A new bird on 21st at Captain Kites was added to on 22nd, with two present, followed by a lingering bird on 23rd, and presumably the same on 25th. The 29th revealed what was probably another new arrival, with one mobile bird at the farm and then East Bog in the evening, lingering there on 30th. This was the last of the year.

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Yellow-browed Warbler, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very rare and sporadic breeder, noted 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2014. Abundant migrant

First noted on 13th March at North Haven, where one was present. This was followed by single figure counts on 14 dates, the highest being eight on 23rd and 30th and nine on 25th and 31st. Counts of between one and 18 dominated April, but for peaks of 35 on 11th and 25 on 12th. Between one and eight were noted daily through the first half of May, but sightings became infrequent thereafter with between one and three seen during eight days at the end of the month, including a singing bird on 29th at Moorey Mere. This bird continued to sing through until 2nd June, and lingered there until 6th, this being the last spring sighting. The first of the autumn arrived on 5th August, with two present, followed by one on 14th, two on 15th, three on 17th and two on 30th. Sightings were virtually daily through September, with between one and eight being typical, except for 10 on 14th. October produced between one and 13 on most dates, but for peaks of 41 on 8th (year’s highest count) and 30 on 9th. Singles on seven dates in November culminated in the last record of the year on 19th.

Siberian Chiffchaff P. c. tristis Rare migrant. Fourteen previous records, with further records of 'eastern' birds possibly relating to this subspecies. However, owing to confusion regarding the identification of this sub-species in the past, this may represent a false status

There were four records of birds fitting the description of this subspecies this year. The first, a spring record, was discovered on 20th April in North Valley. A second bird occurred at the more typical time of 31st October, and was heard to give a classic tristis call. This was followed by two records of singles in November; one on 8th and one in South Stream on 25th and 26th, which interestingly wore a metal ring on the right leg which unfortunately could not be read.

Siberian Chiffchaff 2016. E. Stubbings ©

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Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Abundant migrant

The first of the year arrived on 28th March at the farm; one day later than last year. Between one and 26 were then noted nearly daily until two were seen on 30th May, these being the last of the spring passage. In addition to this spread, spring peaks included 35 on 4th, 65 on 11th and 60 on 20th April. The first of the autumn arrived at the farm on 20th July, with one there the following day also. Sightings of between one and 18 were then virtually daily between 23rd July and 27th September, but with peaks of 26 on 29th July and 21 on 23rd August. After this, sightings became slightly more sporadic, with singles noted on three dates on October, the last record being on 10th. This summarises what was a rather poor year with no counts over 100.

Willow Warbler, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

'Northern' Willow Warbler P. t. acredula Vagrant. Seven previous individuals, 2000, 2006, 2014 (five) and 2015

One record this year, involving a bird noted late in the afternoon in the Ivy at North Haven on 4th May.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Fairly common migrant

The first of the year, a male, arrived on 23rd March at the Chicken Sheds. This was followed by near daily sightings of between one and 26 through April and early May, but for peaks of 32 on 11th and 60 on 20th April (years highest count). Sighting frequency declined after mid-May, with records of between one and five on 11 dates during the month, and the last of the spring arriving on 4th June. An unusual mid-summer record involved a male at North Haven on 4th July, though the first proper autumn migrants arrived at the end of August, with one male on 30th and 31st. Between one and 12 were noted on 15 dates in September, with October fairing a little better, though counts were still low, with the peak being 20 on 7th. Singles followed on 1st, 2nd and 3rd November, with two on 8th being the last of the year.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Uncommon migrant

The first of the year was found on 21st April at the Amos, followed by singles on 9th and 12th May. The first of the autumn was one at the Farm on 30th August, this being followed by another at the Farm on 4th and another on 10th, this being the last of the year.

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Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Scarce migrant

There were three spring records, of one in North Haven on 20th, one at North Valley Crossing on 21st April and one on 8th May. The sole autumn record concerned one at Moorey Mere on 22nd September.

Lesser Whitethroat, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Uncommon breeder, though scarce in some years.

A total of 14 breeding pairs were mapped on the island this year, this being quite a decline from the 22 recorded in 2015, though the population appears healthy compared to the apparent historic average shown in figure 30. First noted carrying nesting material on 10th May while the first fledglings were seen on 4th June.

The first record of the year occurred on 20th April, when six arrived, followed by three on 21st and one on 30th. The main arrival didn’t occur until early May, with double figure accounts peaking at 16 on 5th, and thereafter the breeding birds masked any migration somewhat. Higher counts of 18 on 23rd and 24 on 29th August probably involved a mixture of autumn migrants and fledged young, while small numbers were noted nearly daily through September, peaking with 12 on 15th, and dwindling through the end of the month, with the last record of the year being of one on 30th.

Figure 30. Population trend of Common Whitethroat on Skomer 1960-2016

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Common Whitethroat, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Very rare, cryptic breeder, last record 1981. Uncommon migrant

The first record of the season involved two which arrived on 19th April, followed by one on 20th and another on 23rd, followed by the last spring record on 6th May. The first of the autumn was a singleton which arrived on 29th August, followed in September by one at Green Pond on 26th, this being the last of the year.

*Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina Vagrant. Seventeen previous records, most recently 2014

The island produced two of these hefty Hippolais warblers this year, both in the autumn. The first was found at the farm in the morning on 29th August (JWM), where it remained only for one day. Another was discovered in North Valley willows late in the evening on 6th September (EMS). This bird lingered right through to 19th, relocating to the North Valley Crossing.

Icterine Warbler, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

*Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglottal Vagrant. Fourteen previous records, involving 17 individuals, most recently three in 2014.

In what was a good year for ‘hippos’, one of these island rarities arrived on the same date as the second Icterine Warbler; the 6th September (OP) at Moorey Mere. Unlike its cousin, this was a one-day only bird.

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Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Uncommon breeder. Uncommon migrant

A total of 40 breeding pairs were mapped this year, this being equal to 2015 and represents an increase of 7.5% over the last five years. First noted singing on 20th April, carrying nesting material on 14th May and feeding young on 10th June.

The first of the year arrived on 13th April in North Valley, followed by sightings of between one and four on six further dates during the month. Sightings then became daily as the breeding birds settled, this period featuring peaks of 38 on 5th, 37 on 6th and 30 on 7th, these likely including migrants. Sightings became more sporadic during the end of September, with the last four of the year being seen on 22nd September. One was seen being predated by a Sparrowhawk on 30th August.

Figure 31. Population trend of Sedge Warbler on Skomer 1960-2016

Sedge Warbler, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Uncommon migrant

The first of the year was found in South Stream on the fairly typical date of 14th May, followed by one on 19th, 22nd, 25th and 27th at Moorey Mere. A good August produced sightings of two on 12th, one at Moorey Mere on 16th, one on 18th, 27th and 28th, two on 29th and three on 30th. September then produced a single on 2nd, two on 7th, one on 9th to 11th, 13th, 15th and 17th, the latter singles possibly involving the same individual, and being the last of the year.

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Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Fairly common breeder

Present throughout the season, with 71 breeding territories mapped. This represents an increase on the 52 noted in 2015, with the population also showing an increase of 21.6% over the past five years. Birds were singing on the warden’s arrival to the island, with nest building noted at Moorey Mere on 31st March and first fledglings noted on 25th May.

Figure 32. Population trend of Wren on Skomer 1946-2016

Wren, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very abundant migrant

First noted on 4th March, when 10 birds passed through. Noted on 15 dates thereafter during the month, with most counts between one and 30, but for 54 on 13th, 40 on 19th and 50 on 20th. three on 3rd, two on 11th and one on 19th April were followed in May by one on 9th and 24th, four on 28th, two on 30th and four on 31st. Noted on 21 dates in June, with a peak of 20 on 25th, with the month also featuring the first juveniles from the mainland on 8th. A similar spread of records in July and August saw peaks of 30 on five dates plus 35 on 14th August. Only two records of singles were made in September. October produced records on 16 dates of between one and 341 birds, plus some impressive days of heavier passage (see below). Further high counts were made in November (see table 9), during which time sightings were daily until the last day of the season.

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Date 22nd Oct 23rd Oct 31th Oct 31th Oct 31th Oct 1st Nov 2nd Nov 12th Nov 23rd Nov 24th Nov 25th Nov Max count 573 510 700 700 700 1200 1130 375 680 685 650 Table 9. Peak Autumn counts of Starling.

Starlings, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Uncommon migrant

Three spring records, with two at Moorey Mere on 11th April, three between the Farm and North Haven on 20th April and one at the Farm on 25th May. The first of the autumn didn’t appear until 5th October, when one arrived. This was followed by two on 8th, one on 9th on South Plateau, three at the farm between 10th and 12th, two on 13th, one on 14th, four on 15th, two on 15th and one on 20th and 23rd, this being the last of the year.

Ring Ouzel, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Blackbird Turdus merula Scarce breeder, previously uncommon. Common migrant

Present on the warden’s arrival to the island. Two pairs bred this year, this being the same as in 2015, though the species has declined 60% over the last five years. Singing was first noted on 28th March, nesting material on 11th April, carrying food on 29th May and first fledgling on 8th June.

Slight hints of spring migration included 10 on 5th and 13th, eight on 6th and 11th and 12 on 12th March. The autumn didn’t produce its first sign of migration until October, with the month producing double figure counts on 13 dates and peaks of 20 on 10th and 20th, 33 on 21st, 53 on 23rd, 21 on 30th and 25 on 31st. November similarly produced double figures on 12 dates, with further peaks of 23 on 8th, 27 on 13th and 28 on 25th. Sightings were made until the warden’s departure, with some birds likely making to overwinter on the island.

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Figure 33. Population trend of Blackbird on Skomer 1946-2016

First summer male Blackbird, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Fairly common, occasionally common migrant.

First noted on 12th March, when eight arrived followed by two on 15th and three on 16th, these being the only spring records. Autumn migration didn’t commence until 10th October, when two arrived, noted on 13 dates thereafter during the month, with counts typically of between one and six, except for 10 on 24th and 12 on 29th and 31st. Between one and five noted on 11 dates in November, except for eight on 23rd. Last noted on the warden’s departure.

Note – due to the accidental omission of this species from the 2014 and 2015 Skomer Bird Reports, the species accounts for these years are included below:

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2015 – There were two spring records, on 3rd and 8th April. The first record of the autumn involved 30 over the Farm on 14th October. Following this, birds were noted nearly daily until 5th November, with peak counts of 19 on 18th and 10 on 28th October and 17 on 3rd and 71 on 4th November. After a break in sightings, two were noted on 14th, followed by 18 on 17th November, these being the last of the year.

2014 – A terrible year, with no spring records followed by a very quiet autumn. The first autumn record didn’t come until 31st October, when four were noted, this being the highest count of the year. Only recorded on five days in November, with the highest count being three, and the last record coming on 20th November.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Scarce and very sporadic breeder. Common migrant

Present on the warden’s arrival to the island, with four on 28th and one on 29th February. Noted almost daily in March, with one singing at North Haven on 1st. Counts typically ranged between one and 12, but for a spring peak of 14 on 8th. There were six April records, never involving more than two, with the last of the spring on 22nd April. The first of the autumn involved one at the Well on 30th September, this then leading into near daily sightings until the warden’s departure from the island. Peak counts included 28 on 19th and 20th, 31 on 21st and 27 on 22nd October, and 23 on 13th and 24 on 19th November.

Song Thrush, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Redwing Turdus iliacus Common migrant

An excellent spring, with the largest day counts recorded since 200 in March 1965 and 450 in March 1983. First noted on 11th March when three arrived. Small numbers (between one and 12) were noted on several dates through the rest of March, but for impressive counts of 92 on 12th and 108 on 19th, this being the last spring sighting. First autumn record involved three on 5th October, with near-daily sightings thereafter until the end of the season. Typical counts involved between one and 28 birds, but for peaks of 36 on 13th, 54 on 23rd, 81 on 24th and 30 on 31st October.

Redwing, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Uncommon migrant

First noted on 19th October, with a single bird arriving, followed by another on 30th. This was followed by four further singles in November, on 7th, 23rd, 25th and 26th.

Mistle Thrush, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata One breeding record 1985. Common migrant

First record was of a single on 3rd May, followed by sightings on 23 dates of between one and seven birds, but for higher counts of 20 on 7th and 17 on 8th. Singles were noted on four dates in June, with the last record occurring on 12th of the month. A mid-summer record involved a bird at the farm on 19th July, though autumn passage didn’t really commence until five arrived on 13th August. Sightings were made on seven further dates during the month, involving between one and six birds, but for a peak of 10 on 16th. September was poor, with sightings on only seven dates and only involving singles except for two on 26th. Six records in October peaked with three on 8th, and produced the last record of the year, on 11th.

Spotted Flycatcher, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Robin Erithacus rubecula Last confirmed breeding record 1994. Very abundant migrant

Present on the warden’s arrival, with 12 noted, having presumably overwintered. Sightings were virtually daily until late March, with up to 21 being noted. Sightings dwindled through the end of the month, with

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April only producing 13 sightings, and never more than two. Two singles were noted in May on 6th and 11th. A recently fledged juvenile was discovered in North Valley on 3rd July, with an adult noted there the day before. This constitutes the first breeding record on the island since 1994. This bird was seen again on 16th, with two birds seen on 23rd. August saw sightings becoming daily again, with counts reaching double figures by the end of the month, peaking at 22 on 30th. Between nine and 29 were noted daily through September, but with peaks of 36 on 14th, 32 on 17th, 40 on 22nd and 30 on 25th. October saw a further increase in number, with counts typically ranging between 15 and 46 and peaks of 58 on 8th and 49 on 21st. November produced typical counts of between one and 27 bird, plus peak counts of 39 on 13th, 32 on 19th and 36 on 23rd. Birds were present right up to the warden’s departure, presumably set to winter.

*Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Vagrant. Eight previous records, most recently May 2015

One of these rare migrant songsters arrived on the island this spring, appearing at Moorey Mere on 13th May (EMS), where it lingered for the day and showed quite well amongst the brambles and bluebells to the north of the hide.

Common Nightingale, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Uncommon migrant

A really poor spring, with only one record on 11th April. Noted on 10 dates in August after the first arrived on 14th, with two on 18th and between 29th and 31st, both lingering through to 1st September. One on 2nd and 21st followed. October then produced singles on 6th and 14th, the latter being the last of the year.

Pied Flycatcher, Green Pond, April 2016. E. Stubbings ©

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Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Uncommon migrant

There were six spring records, on 11th and 12th in North Haven, a female at the Garland Stone on 23rd April, a male on 5th, female on 13th and one on 19th May. The first of the autumn, a female, arrived at the farm on 15th October, followed by two on 25th, one female at North Haven on 26th and one on 29th. November then produced two further records; a female at Pigstone Bay on 1st and one at North Haven on 3rd.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus Uncommon migrant

The first of the spring, a pair of males, arrived on 11th April and lingered to the following day, followed by one on 14th, a male on 20th, a female on 21st and 22nd and one on 23rd, these being the last spring records. There were three autumn records, involving one at the farm on 16th August plus a female in East Bog on 9th and one on 11th October.

Common Redstart, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon migrant

The first of the year was a female which arrived at the Harold Stone on 20th April, followed by a male on 22nd. Three records in May involved a female at Bull Hole on 2nd and one in Well Field on 9th and 10th, this being the last spring bird. The first of the autumn passage involved a juvenile at the farm on 30th July, followed by singles on 17th and 19th, two on 25th and 27th and one at the Wick on 28th August. September then produced a good number of records, with sightings on 11 dates of typically between one and three, but for peaks of eight on 15th and six on 20th. October produced one on 1st, four on 2nd, two on 3rd and singes on 7th and 8th, the latter being the last of the year.

Whinchat, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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European Stonechat Saxicola rubicola Scarce breeder. Uncommon migrant

Present on the warden’s arrival to the island, with three pairs breeding successfully near the Harold Stone, North Valley Research Path and west of North Pond. This represents the highest population total since 1985. Singing was first noted on 1st March, nest building on 9th April, incubating on 21st April, feeding young on 12th May, and first fledglings on 25th May. Two pairs successfully produced second broods.

Hints of light spring passage, in addition to the breeding birds, included 11 on 8th and 12th March. Autumn passage was noted when 30 were counted on 30th September and 19 on 4th, 18 on 5th and 16 on 6th October. The last record concerned two on 27th November.

While not confirmed, birds resembling the continental race S. r. rubicola, possessing extensive dark underwing coverts (but white auxiliaries), large white neck patches and well saturated colouration in general were noted on 23rd March, with two present.

Figure 34. Population trend of European Stonechat on Skomer 1960-2016

European Stonechats, North Haven 2016. E. Stubbings ©

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Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Common migrant. Uncommon breeder

A total of 27 breeding pairs were mapped across the island this year, this being a substantial increase on the 18 pairs of 2015. Moreover, the species has been doing well over the last few years, with a 73.1% increase over the last five years. First noted singing and investigating nest sites on 30th March, carrying nesting material on 22nd April, feeding young on 14th May and fledged young on 26th May.

One on 17th March was the first of the year, and two on 25th October were the last. Spring counts mostly involved between one and 23 birds, with further peaks are shown below. The autumn produced no big arrivals, with the highest count being 18 on 25th August.

Date 11th Apr 12th Apr 14th Apr 15th Apr 20th Apr 21st Apr 23rd Apr 24th Apr 25th Apr 5th May 6th May Max count 25 37 35 34 139 30 30 26 33 25 25 Table 10. Peak Spring counts of Northern Wheatear.

Figure 35. Population trend of Northern Wheatear on Skomer 1960-2016

Northern Wheatear family, 2016. M. Wallen ©

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‘Greenland' Wheatear O. o. leucorhoa Uncommon migrant

First noted on 10th April, when one arrived, followed by sightings on 13 dates between here and 23rd May, mostly involving counts of between one and four, but for a higher count of 18 on 20th April. The autumn produced only one confirmed record of one on 2nd October.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Uncommon breeder. Fairly common autumn migrant

Present throughout, with 19 pairs breeding, this being an increase on the 16 pairs mapped in 2015, while the species has also enjoyed a 28.8% increase over the last four years. First noted singing on 1st March, with nesting material on 6th May (though this likely commenced earlier and was unreported) and first fledglings on 1st June.

Counts of between one and 9 were typical through most of the Spring, though a higher count included 12 on 12th April. The latter part of the autumn saw numbers bolstered by migrant birds, with most days represented by between one and 30 birds, but for peaks of 38 on 30th September, 58 on 8th, 31 on 9th, 40 on 10th, 46 on 13th, 46 on 20th, 49 on 21st and 40 on 29th and 30th October. Present through to the warden’s departure.

Figure 36. Population trend of Dunnock on Skomer 1946-2016

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Bred sporadically between 1965 and 1969. Uncommon migrant

A pretty poor year, with only four birds noted. First noted on 17th April, with a female arriving at the farm. A further spring record concerned a male that turned up at the farm on 31st May. The only autumn record involved two birds which arrived on 20th October.

House Sparrow, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

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Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima Uncommon migrant

First recorded on 5th May on North Pond, followed by one on 16th May, these being the only spring records. Two midsummer birds flew over North Haven on 23rd July, followed by singles on 26th and 30th August and singles on 1st and 14th September, these being the last of the year.

Blue-headed Wagtail M. f. flava Vagrant. Eight previous records, most recently 2015

Two birds were noted this year, though the first record is by no means straight forward. A male arrived on Moorey Mere on 9th May, where it remained until 12th. Possessing a pure white throat and darker ear coverts, the bird distinctly resembled M. f. iberiae, and was reported as a ‘probable’ on the bird news services. However, the bird was reluctant to call throughout its stay and, on the rare occasions that a call was heard (only twice) it was weak and drowned out by the sound of breeding gulls. Following the 2014 record being found ‘not proven’ by the BBRC, due to lack of call recording, and due to the presence of ‘white throated’ M. f. flava in the hybrid zone of these two sub-species, this record has, as yet, not been submitted.

More straightforward was a 1st year/female found at the farm on 4th October, lingering until 6th.

‘Blue-headed’ Wagtail, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

‘Iberiae’or hybrid ‘flava-type’ Yellow Wagtail, Moorey Mere 2016. J. Moss ©

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Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Uncommon migrant

Following a blank spring, the first of the year arrived on 3rd July, followed by further singles on 14th, 23rd and 25th. Three records in August involved two at the farm on 28th and 29th and three on 30th. Noted on 19 September dates, with counts normally between one and six, but for higher totals of nine on 1st and 11th, seven on 7th and 10th and 11 on 15th. Between one and three on 16 dates in October, except for a peak of seven on 20th. Two on 29th October were the last of the year.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii Scarce breeder. Fairly common migrant

Three pairs nested this year, equal to 2015, though the species has declined 31.8% over the last five years on the island. First singing on 13th March, nesting material on 9th April, feeding young on 15th May and first fledglings on 30th May.

First arrived on 3rd March (two birds, including the metal-ringed male which has nested at the farm for the past two years, having been ringed on Skokholm in 2013), with between one and eight noted virtually daily thereafter. In addition, the spring produced a hint of migration on 30th March, with 11 noted, plus 10 on 14th and nine on 18th and 20th April. Numbers were boosted by fledged young through August and into September, resulting in counts of up to 14 birds. However, migration was detected on several dates, with higher counts including 20 on 9th, 18 on 11th and 16 on 12th September. Passage in October included eight north on 19th, though counts remained low during the latter part of the season, with the last record being of one on 9th November.

Figure 37. Population trend of Pied Wagtail on Skomer 1946-2016

White Wagtail M. a. alba Uncommon migrant

The first of the year, a male, arrived on 15th April, with another on 17th. May produced another two records of one at North Haven on 11th and one at the Farm on 19th. The autumn passage was slightly stronger, with the first arriving on 11th September, followed by five on 15th, three on 16th, singles on 17th, 19th and 29th and two on 30th, these being the last of the year.

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White Wagtail, South Plateau 2016. J. Moss ©

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Uncommon migrant

The first of the spring arrived on 23rd April, followed by singles on 5th and 13th May, these being the last spring records. The first of the autumn flew over the farm on 16th August, followed by one on 18th and another single on 29th. September went on to produce singles on 1st, 2nd, 14th and 15th, while the last record of the year concerned two at the Wick and Moorey Mere on 8th October.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Fairly common breeder. Abundant migrant

Present throughout the season, with 115 breeding pairs mapped on the island, this being the highest total since 120 were recorded in 1990. The species has shown a 45.2% increase over the last five years, which can only be good news. First noted singing on 10th March, carrying nesting material on 9th April and carrying food on 15th May. The first 2nd broods were being fed by 16th July.

Hints of spring passage were noted occasionally early on, with 40 counted on 3rd, 101 on 12th and 51 on 17th March. The first noticeable arrivals and gatherings of the autumn occurred in August, when 45 were counted on 18th. Several counts were made of up to 78 birds during September and October. Higher counts are shown below.

Date 8th Sep 14th Sep 15th Sep 22nd Sep 26th Sep 30th Sep 1st Oct 2nd Oct 8th Oct 9th Oct Max count 90 90 80 159 103 125 90 200 85 117 Table 11. Peak Autumn counts of Meadow Pipit.

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Figure 38. Population trend of Meadow and Rock Pipits on Skomer 1897-2016

Meadow Pipit 2016. J. Moss ©

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon breeder. Fairly common migrant

Present throughout the season, with 19 pairs mapped across the coastline of the island, this being an increase on the 14 of 2015. The species has shown a 15.6% decline over the last four years. First noted displaying on 28th March, nest building on 19th April, feeding young on 27th April, and the first fledged young noted on 24th June.

August produced a higher count of 24 on 27th, which may have included some migrants, but could just as well have been due to fledged young bolstering the population, while similar counts on a few days in September may well have been for the same reason. Twenty-eight on 12th October was the highest count of the year.

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Rock Pipit, Garland Stone 2016. J. Moss ©

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Uncommon migrant

The first of the year flew over on 8th October, followed by one in North Valley on 19th. There were a further three on 20th and singles on 30th and 31st, these being the last of the season.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Common migrant

The first record concerned two which arrived on 5th March, with records on a further eight dates, normally of between one and two but for six on 11th and eight on 12th. Five records in April involved singles on 3rd and 4th, 7th and 8th and, finally, a female at the farm on 13th. May saw two arrive on 3rd, followed by two more on 7th, singles on 9th, 10th and 11th and a further single on 28th, this being the last of the spring. The first autumn records came in September, with two on 15th, followed by between one and three on 11 dates. October produced between one and 28 daily, except for days of greater passage, which produced counts of 46 on 20th, 45 on 22nd, 73 on 30th and 130 on 31st (highest count of the year). Between one and 21 were recorded on most days in November, except for peaks of 23 on 1st, 32 on 7th, 30 on 19th and 90 on 23rd. The last record was of one on 28th November.

Chaffinch, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Rare migrant. Twenty-three previous records. Most recently 2014.

One record this year, of a female in North Valley on 30th October (EMS).

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Greenfinch Chloris chloris Uncommon migrant, though fairly common in some years.

First record of the year was of a single noted on 12th April, this being the only one of the spring. The first of the autumn came in September, with one west of the farm on 18th. October then produced one on 8th, three on 20th and singles on 21st and 22nd. These were the last records of the year.

Note – due to the accidental omission of this species from the 2014 and 2015 Skomer Bird Reports, the species accounts for these years are included below:

2015 – One spring record in 2015, with one noted over North Haven on 20th March. The first of the autumn concerned one on 19th September, followed by four on 14th and 15th, three on 20th and six on 25th October, these being the last of the year.

2014 – There were no spring records. The first of the year arrived on 11th October, followed by one on 14th and four on 31st October, these being the only records of the year.

Linnet Linaria cannabina Scarce and sporadic breeder, with breeding occurring most recently 2009 and 2015. Very abundant migrant

Following the first breeding attempt since 2006 last year, six pairs nested this year, mostly around the North Valley and Farm, plus a pair at Bull Hole. This is the highest total since 2000 of this once regular breeding species. With the mainland enjoying a bumper year, perhaps we will see a continued resurgence. First noted nest building on 18th April, eggs were noted on 27th May.

First recorded on the island on 13th March, when two arrived. Between one and 19 were then noted almost daily throughout the summer. Higher spring and autumn counts are summarised below.

Date 8th Apr 12th Apr 13th Apr 14th Apr 17th Apr 21st Apr 28th Apr Max count 33 22 35 27 20 20 44 Table 12. Peak spring counts of Linnet.

Date 13th Sep 15th Sep 17th Sep 30th Sep 2nd Oct 8th Oct 9th Oct 13th Oct 20th Oct 22nd Oct 26th Nov Max count 40 280 33 37 137 131 167 69 97 44 67 Table 13. Peak autumn counts of Linnet.

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Figure 39. Population trend of Linnet on Skomer 1946-2016

Linnet, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Lesser Redpoll Acanthis cabaret Uncommon migrant

The first of the year involved two birds on 20th April, followed in May by a singing bird on 5th and two on 16th. The autumn only produced one confirmed record (assigned to species), of a single on 11th November.

Redpoll sp., not assigned to species (usually flyovers) included singles on 14th, 19th, 23rd and 30th April. May produced three on 6th, two on 8th, four on 12th, two ‘trilling’ over South Stream on 13th, four ‘trilling’ at Moorey Mere on 14th, singles on 19th and 21st, three on 24th and singles on 25th, 28th and 29th. One was recorded on 4th June. First noted in the autumn on 31st October, this being the last record.

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Lesser Redpoll, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Abundant migrant

An exciting development at the farm this year involved the first documented breeding of this species in Skomer’s history. First noted nest building on 2nd June, the pair successfully fledged a chick on 8th July.

Noted on 10 dates in March, first on 11th, with sightings between one and three except for eight on 22nd and five on 30th. Between one and 32 were noted near-daily in April, but for a couple of bigger days involving 40 on 17th and 70 over North Haven on 30th. Though sightings remained daily in May, numbers were lower overall, with peaks of 21 on 3rd and 22 on 4th. Up to 15 were noted in June, though typically numbers were between one and eight. Up to 16 were seen in July, with similar numbers in August. The end of September began to produce larger numbers as autumn migrants began to move through. Counts of up to 33 birds were frequent, but with peaks of 74 on 15th and 37 on 30th. The start of October continued to produce consistent counts of up to 28 birds, with peaks of 40 on 2nd, 80 on 9th, 49 on 10th and 44 on 13th. Numbers dwindled hereafter, with between one and 16 noted during the latter part of the month, while November produced between one and five on 15 dates, ending the year with one on 28th.

Juvenile Goldfinch, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

*Serin Serinus serinus Vagrant. Five previous records, 1946, 1974, 1993, 2003 and 2009

A highlight of the autumn, one of these smart continental finches appeared early in the morning on 26th October (EMS). The bird remained all morning, feeding on the ground near the warden’s house at North Haven.

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Serin, North Haven track 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Siskin Spinus spinus Uncommon migrant

First noted in March, with three records involving one on 13th, one on 15th and two on 17th. April then produced five records, all of singles, followed in May by one on 5th, two on 6th and one on 25th. Thirteen records in October normally involved between one and three birds, but for eight on 10th and 19th and seven on 20th. Singles on 1st, 8th and 11th November were the last of the year.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce autumn migrant, though absent in some years

There were two records this year, involving one over South Stream early on 20th October, and one which flew east with Skylarks on 7th November.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Uncommon autumn migrant, though scarce in some years

A good year, following last year’s blank. The first record involved a single on North Pond on 24th September, which was seen there again on 26th, 28th and 30th, plus another at North Haven on the latter date. The next record involved one on 2nd October, followed by another on 31st. November then saw one on 3rd, three East on 7th, one over North Pond on 19th, at least two on 23rd and singles on 25th and 27th.

* Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana Rare migrant. Twenty-one previous records, most recently two September 2014

One of these subtly beautiful buntings appeared for the third time in three years, with one arriving at North Haven in the morning on 8th September (EMS). Lingering only for a short while, the bird eventually flew south.

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Ortolan Bunting, North Haven 2016. E. Stubbings ©

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Scarce breeder. Uncommon migrant

A total of four pairs were mapped this year, this being one down on 2015. First noted singing on 6th March, the first fledglings were seen on 15th June.

The first bird returned to the island on 6th March, though it didn’t waste any time, singing at North Valley crossing on arrival. Sightings of between one and six were then virtually daily through the rest of the season. Numbers were inflated by migrants during October, with between one and 15 being noted daily, but for greater peaks of 20 on 8th and 17 on 10th. Between one and six were noted on 15 dates during November, but for a peak of 10 on 7th. Last recorded on 27th November.

Figure 40. Population trend of Reed Bunting on Skomer 1960-2016

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Reed Bunting, Well Pond 2016. J. Moss ©

*Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala Vagrant. Eight previous records, last recorded 2015

Skomer is fast gaining a reputation for being one of the UK’s premier sites for this rare vagrant bunting, with eight previous records to its name, and this being the third in as many years. This year’s record involved a stonking male which was found at the Farm in the morning on 24th May (EMS). The bird showed very well for most island residents, though unfortunately became elusive and was lost by mid-morning.

Black-headed Bunting, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

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Rarity Report Jason Moss Assistant Warden

The below tables give a full summary of rare bird submissions from 2013, 2014 and 2015, involving both species assessed by the British Birds Rarities Committee (BBRC) and the Welsh Rarities Panel (WRP).

Accepted rarity decisions 2013

Species Location, Date Observer Rarity committee Pallid Harrier Island top, 20th Apr-1st May EMS, DB et. al. BBRC Montagu’s Harrier Island top, 26th Apr-2st May EMS et. al WRP Corncrake Neck, 8th Sept EMS WRP Barred Warbler 31st Oct-2nd Nov WRP

Accepted rarity decisions 2014

Species Location, Date Observer Rarity committee Black Kite Farm, 16th May EMS et. al. WRP Lesser Yellowlegs North Pond, 11th Sept LPL et. al. BBRC Red-backed Shrike Farm, 8th June JWM WRP Greenish Warbler North Haven, 7th June EMS WRP Barred Warbler North Valley, 25th Oct JWM WRP Icterine Warbler North Valley, 2nd Sept JWM, LPL WRP Melodious Warbler Farm, 3rd Sept LPL, JWM, EMS WRP Melodious Warbler East Bog, 26th Sept JWM WRP Melodious Warbler East Bog, 2nd-10th Oct JWM WRP Blyth’s Reed Warbler North Haven, 26th May EMS, OP BBRC Red-breasted Flycatcher North Valley Crossing, 19th Sept JWM WRP Desert Wheatear Neck, 28th Oct EMS BBRC Ortolan Bunting Farm, 2nd Sept JWM WRP Ortolan Bunting Farm, 10th Sept JWM WRP Black-headed Bunting Farm, 21st May JWM BBRC

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Accepted rarity decisions 2015

Species Location, Date Observer Rarity committee Black Stork Garland Stone, 25th May MW, TW BBRC Spotted Crake North Pond, 10th Sept JWM, OP WRP Golden Oriole (four ind.) North Valley, 10th-13th May LN et. al. WRP Greenish Warbler North Haven, 12th June EMS WRP Greenish Warbler North Haven, 23rd July EMS WRP Common Nightingale North Valley, 11th May EMS et. al. WRP Red-breasted Flycatcher South Stream, 3rd October EMS, BB WRP Common Rosefinch Farm, 13th June JWM, LN WRP Common Rosefinch North Valley Crossing, 14th Oct JWM WRP Black-headed Bunting Wick Stream, 7th-8th June SR et. al. BBRC

Recent rarity records ‘Pending’ or ‘Not Proven’

Species Location, Date Comments Rarity committee Olive-backed Pipit North Haven, Oct 2013 BBRC ‘Iberiae’ Yellow Wagtail Moorey Mere, 15th May Not proven due to lack of BBRC 2014 vocalisation and possibility of being hybrid zone ‘flava’

Subalpine Warbler South Stream, 2013 In circulation. Submitted as BBRC Eastern.

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References

Stubbings, E.M., Büche, B.I., Miquel Riera, E., Green, R.A. & Wood, M.J. (2015). Skomer Seabird Report. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales Stubbings, E.M., Büche, B.I., Wilson, A.,Green, R.A. & Wood, M.J. (2014). Skomer Seabird Report. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales Büche, BI, Stubbings, EM, Boyle, D. and Perrins, CM, Yates, L. (2013) Seabird monitoring on Skomer Island in 2013.JNCC Report No.XXX Moss, J. (2015). Skomer Island Systematic List 2015. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire. Moss, J. (2014). Skomer Island Systematic List 2014. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire.

Harris, S., Taylor, C. (2012). Skomer Island Systematic List 2012. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire.

Taylor, C. (2011). Skomer NNR Bird Report 2011. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire.

Taylor, C. (2010). Skomer NNR Bird Report 2010. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire.

Milborrow, J. (2009). Skomer Island Bird Report 2009. Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire.

Acknowledgements

Many thanks to all Skomer Island staff, short and long-term volunteers, researchers, crew of the Dale Princess and all overnight guests who contributed bird sighting to the evening bird log. Also, particular thanks go to Eddie Stubbings for writing up the seabird sections and for useful comments and additions to the first draft.

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Systematic checklist of the birds of Skomer Island Jason Moss Assistant Warden

The following is a checklist of the birds of Skomer Island, as of the start of 2017. All species included have been accepted by the relevant records committees, but for those at the end, entitled either as category E (presumed escapes), unidentified to species, hybrid and extinct, these being included for completeness. The Skomer Island List currently stands at 285 at the start of 2017.

Status categories Vagrant (V) one to 10 records Rare (R) 11 to 40 records Scarce (S) one to five records per year Uncommon (U) six to 50 records per year Fairly common (FC) 51 to 250 records per year Common (C) 251 to 1000 records per year Abundant (A) 1001 to 2500 records per year Very abundant (VA) more than 2500 records per year

Breeding categories Very rare breeder (VRB) one to 10 breeding records Rare breeder (RB) 11 to 40 breeding records Scarce breeder (SB) one to five breeding records per year Uncommon breeder (UB) six to 50 breeding records per year Fairly common breeder (FCB) 51 to 250 breeding records per year Common breeder(CB) 251 to 1000 breeding records per year Abundant breeder (AB) 1001 to 2500 breeding records per year Very abundant breeder (VAB) more than 2500 breeding records per year

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 Mute Swan (V)  Great Cormorant (UB) (FC)  Curlew Sandpiper (V)  Bewick's Swan (V)  European Shag (UB)  Sanderling (V)  Whooper Swan (V)  Eurasian Bittern (V)  Dunlin (U)  Bean Goose (V)  Night Heron (V)  Purple Sandpiper (U)  Pink-footed Goose (V)  Cattle Egret (V)  Little Stint (R)  Greater White-fronted Goose (R)  Little Egret (R)  Pectoral Sandpiper (V)  Greylag Goose (V)  Great Egret (V)  Grey Phalarope (V)  Canada Goose (UB)  Grey Heron (FC)  Common Sandpiper (U)  Barnacle Goose (R)  Purple Heron (V)  Green Sandpiper (S)  Brent Goose (R)  Black Stork (V)  Spotted Redshank (R)  Common Shelduck (SB) (SM)  Eurasian Spoonbill (V)  Common Greenshank (S)  Eurasian Wigeon (U)  Little Grebe (S)  Lesser Yellowlegs (V)  Gadwall (RB)  Great Crested Grebe (V)  Wood Sandpiper (R)  Eurasian Teal (RB) (FC)  Red-necked Grebe (V)  Common Redshank (S)  Green-winged Teal (V)  European Honey Buzzard (V)  Jack Snipe (S)  Mallard (UB) (FC)  Black Kite (V)  Woodcock (U)  Northern Pintail (RB) (S)  Red Kite (S)  Common Snipe (C)  Garganey (RM)  White-tailed Eagle (V)  Pomarine Skua (V)  Northern Shoveler (SB) (UM)  Marsh Harrier (S)  Arctic Skua (S)  Common Pochard (R)  Hen Harrier (U)  Long-tailed Skua (V)  Ring-necked Duck (V)  Pallid Harrier (V)  Great Skua (S)  Tufted Duck (RB) (S)  Montagu's Harrier (R)  Atlantic Puffin (VAB)  Greater Scaup (V)  Northern Goshawk (V)  Black Guillemot (R)  Common Eider (V)  Eurasian Sparrowhawk (U)  Razorbill (VAB)  Long-tailed Duck (V)  Common Buzzard (SB) (FC)  Little Auk (V)  Common Scoter (C)  Rough-legged Buzzard (V)  Guillemot (VAB)  Velvet Scoter (V)  Osprey (R)  Little Tern (R)  Common Goldeneye (V)  Water Rail (VRB) (RC)  Caspian Tern (V)  Red-breasted Merganser (R)  Spotted Crake (V)  Black Tern (R)  Goosander (V)  Corncrake (R)  Sandwich Tern (S)  Ruddy Duck (V)  Moorhen (UB)  Common Tern (S)  Common Quail (R)  Eurasian Coot (VRB) (S)  Roseate Tern (V)  Red-legged Partridge (V)  Oystercatcher (FCB)  Arctic Tern (S)  Grey Partridge (V)  European Golden Plover (U)  Sabine's Gull (V)  Common Pheasant (UB)  Grey plover (R)  Kittiwake (AB)  Red-throated Diver (S)  Northern Lapwing (U)  Black-headed Gull (A)  Black-throated Diver (V)  Little Ringed Plover (V)  Little Gull (R)  Great Northern Diver (S)  Ringed Plover (U)  Laughing Gull (V)  Northern Fulmar (CB)  Eurasian Dotterel (V)  Mediterranean Gull (U)  Great Shearwater (V)  Upland Sandpiper (V)  Common Gull (U)  Sooty Shearwater (R)  Whimbrel (C)  Lesser Black-backed Gull (VAB)  Manx Shearwater (VAB)  Eurasian Curlew (SB) (C)  European Herring Gull (C)  Balearic Shearwater (R)  Black-tailed Godwit (S)  Yellow-legged Gull (V)  Macronesian (Barolo) Shearwater (V)  Bar-tailed Godwit (S)  Iceland Gull (V)  European Storm Petrel (FCB)  Turnstone (C)  Glaucous Gull (R)  Leach's Storm Petrel (V)  Knot (R)  Great Black-backed Gull (FCB)  Northern Gannet (VA)  Ruff (R)  Rock Dove/Feral Pigeon (FC)

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 Stock Dove (S)  Barn Swallow (UB) (VA)  Pied Flycatcher (U)  Woodpigeon (SB) (C)  House Martin (C)  Black Redstart (U)  Collared Dove (U)  Cetti's Warbler (V)  Common Redstart (U)  European Turtle Dove (S)  Long-tailed Tit (S)  Whinchat (U)  Common Cuckoo (RB) (S)  Greenish Warbler (V)  European Stonechat (SB) (U)  Barn Owl (SB)  Pallas's Warbler (V)  Northern Wheatear (UB) (C)  Little Owl (SB)  Yellow-browed Warbler (S)  Desert Wheatear (V)  Tawny Owl (V)  Radde's Warbler (V)  Black-eared Wheatear (V)  Long-eared Owl (R)  Wood Warbler (S)  Dunnock (UB) (FC)  Short-eared Owl (SB) (U)  Chiffchaff (VRB) (A)  House Sparrow (U)  European Nightjar (R)  Willow Warbler (A)  Tree Sparrow (S)  Common Swift (C)  Blackcap (FC)  Yellow Wagtail (U)  Hoopoe (R)  Garden Warbler (U)  Citrine Wagtail (V)  Bee-eater (V)  Barred Warbler (V)  Grey Wagtail (U)  Kingfisher (V)  Lesser Whitethroat (S)  Pied Wagtail (SB) (FC)  Wryneck (S)  Common Whitethroat (UB)  Richards Pipit (R)  Green Woodpecker (R)  Dartford Warbler (V)  Tawny Pipit (V)  Great Spotted Woodpecker (R)  Subalpine Warbler (R)  Olive-backed Pipit (V)  Kestrel (SB) (U)  Grasshopper Warbler (VRB) (U)  Tree Pipit (U)  Red-footed Falcon (V)  Booted Warbler (V)  Meadow Pipit (FCB) (A)  Merlin (U)  Icterine Warbler (V)  Red-throated Pipit (V)  Hobby (R)  Melodious Warbler (V)  Rock Pipit (UB) (FC)  Peregrine (SB) (U)  Aquatic Warbler (V)  Water Pipit (V)  Golden Oriole (R)  Sedge Warbler (UB) (U)  Brambling (U)  Red-backed Shrike (R)  Blyth's Reed Warbler (V)  Chaffinch (C)  Lesser Grey Shrike (V)  Marsh Warbler (V)  Hawfinch (V)  Great Grey Shrike (V)  Reed Warbler (U)  Common Rosefinch (R)  Woodchat Shrike (R)  Great Reed Warbler (V)  Bullfinch (R)  Chough (SB) (FC)  Nuthatch (V)  Greenfinch (U)  Magpie (UB)  Treecreeper (R)  Linnet (SB) (VA)  Jay (R)  Wren (FCB)  Twite (V)  Jackdaw (FCB) (C)  Starling (VA)  Lesser Redpoll (U)  Rook (U)  Rose-coloured Starling (V)  Common Redpoll (V)  Carrion Crow (UB)  Dipper (V)  Crossbill (R)  Hooded Crow (R)  Ring Ouzel (U)  Goldfinch (VRB) (A)  Raven (SB) (FC)  Blackbird (SB) (C)  Serin (V)  Goldcrest (FC)  Dusky Thrush (V)  Siskin (U)  Firecrest (S)  Fieldfare (FC)  Snow Bunting (S)  Blue Tit (FC)  Song Thrush (SB) (C)  Lapland Bunting (U)  Great Tit (U)  Redwing (C)  Rose-breasted Grosbeak (V)  Coal Tit (U)  Mistle Thrush (U)  Yellowhammer (S)  Marsh Tit (V)  Spotted Flycatcher (C)  Ortolan Bunting (R)  Short-toed Lark (V)  Robin (VRB) (VA)  Rustic Bunting (V)  Woodlark (R)  Common Nightingale (V)  Little Bunting (V)  Skylark (SB) (C)  Bluethroat (V)  Reed Bunting (SB) (U)  Shore Lark (V)  Red-flanked Bluetail (V)  Black-headed Bunting (V)  Sand Martin (C)  Red-breasted Flycatcher (R)  Corn Bunting (V)

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 Bobolink (V)  Saker Falcon

 Black-and-white Warbler (V)  Gyr Falcon

 Blackburnian Warbler (V)  Laughing Dove Hybrids

 Red-headed Bunting  Herring x Lesser Black-backed Gull

Unidentified to species  Nelsons' Gull  Frigatebird sp. Category E Species  Albatross sp.   Snow Goose Extinct

 Ferruginous Duck  Great Auk  Flamingo sp. 

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Skomer Island Moth Report 2016 Jason Moss Skomer Assistant Warden

Introduction

Moth trapping has been undertaken by the islands staff and volunteers on a regular basis on Skomer Island since the early 70’s, though the earliest written records date back to 1923. In 2013 Dave Boyle succeeded in bringing all of the islands records together into one systematic list of officially confirmed records (Boyle, D., 2013. Unpublished), which has proven to be a vital resource for the current island staff. The following report draws upon much of Dave’s hard work, providing an up-to-date and easily accessible systematic list for Skomer Island, up to 2016, and also annual summaries for the years 2014-2016 of notable island records, a migrant summary and an overview of the rarer breeding species on the island.

Trapping is primarily undertaken at two sites; at the Farm and by the North Haven building, with a Robinson- type trap with a Mercury Vapour bulb deployed at the former and a Skinner trap with a mains-powered Actinic bulb at the latter. Both of these traps are run primarily using solar power, and are typically reliable, though there were problems with the system at the Farm during much of 2016. Trapping is performed whenever the weather allows, with times of light winds, no rain and overcast skies particularly favoured.

In addition to these fixed positions, trapping is occasionally performed in other areas of the island, attempting to incorporate areas of differing habitat, and also to target scarce and little-known species (for example Webb’s Wainscot) on the island. This trapping is conducted using Heath traps with actinic bulbs powered by 9 volt batteries. Further to this, additional methods of recording include diurnal and nocturnal searching and Sugaring.

Vestal, Farm 2016. One of several during a 2016 arrival. J. Moss ©

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Annual summaries

2014

Moth recording from the Farm area was conducted on 59 dates in 2014, with 53 Robinson trap-nights, five Heath trap-nights and one record from diurnal searches. A total of 8439 individual moths of 177 species were recorded through trapping at the Farm, North Valley Crossing and North Pond Research Hide, and also through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation. A total of 16 1st records, three 2nd records and three 3rd records for the island were noted.

Moth recording from the North Haven area was conducted on 87 dates in 2014, with 24 Heath trap-nights and 63 dates of diurnal searches. A total of 2897 individual moths of 213 species were recorded through trapping at North Haven and through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation in various parts of the island. A total of two 1st records, three 2nd records and two 3rd records for the island were noted.

Puss Moth, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Notable Breeding Species

383 Thrift Clearwing Synansphecia muscaeformis Common breeding resident

Noted on thrift during the day both at South Castle and South Plateau, with three seen on 15th June, 20 on 17th June and one on 28th June.

2169 Barrett’s Marbled Coronet Hadena luteago Nationally scarce breeding resident on costal slopes

Singles trapped at North Haven on 29th May, 22nd June and 4th July

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2253 Black-banded Polymixis xanthomista Nationally scarce breeding resident on coastal slopes

Seven trapped at North Haven on five dates between 11th September and 5th October. 2373 Webb’s Wainscot Archanara sparganii Nationally scarce breeding resident, restricted to North Pond

Two records this year, with one trapped at the Farm on 26th June and another trapped at North Valley Crossing on 3rd August.

Notable Island Records Micros

228 Monopis weaverella Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 27th May.

230 Monopis crocicapitella Status uncertain

First Island records. Individuals were trapped at the Farm on 25th June and 10th September, and at North Haven on 4th and 11th September. Interestingly the species was noted as being abundant at the Farm and North Haven in 2016, suggesting successful recent colonisation.

470 Orthotelia sparganella Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped using a Heath Trap at the North Pond Research Hide on 27th July.

649 Esperia sulphurella Status uncertain

First island record. One was caught at North Haven on 15th May.

964 Cochlis dupitana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 23rd June.

1043 Acleris aspersana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 22nd July.

1204 Thiodia citrana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th August.

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1104 Endothenia quadrimaculana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th August. 1134 Epinotia ramella Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th September.

1197 Eucosma campoliliana Status uncertain, probable breeding resident

Three previous records, involving five individuals. A total of 20 individuals were trapped on seven nights between 16th June and 22nd July, including a peak of seven at the Farm on 25th June.

1198 Crocidosema plebejana Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 15th June.

1336 Eudonia pallida Vagrant

First island records. One was trapped at the North Valley Crossing on 16th July, followed by another at the Farm on 13th September.

1338 Eudonia lacustrata Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 21st June.

1375 European Corn-borer Ostrinia nubilalis Vagrant

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th August.

1388 Udea lutealis Status uncertain, possibly an overlooked breeding resident

Third island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th August.

1464 Thistle Ermine Myelois circumvoluta Status uncertain

Third island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 11th July.

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Macros

1682 Blood-vein Timandra comae Status uncertain

Fourth Island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 4th September.

1719 Oblique Carpet Orthonama vittata Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped at the North Pond Research hide on 14th September.

1727 Silver-ground Carpet Xanthorhoe montanata Status uncertain

Fourth island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 16th June.

1757 Spinach Eulithis mellinata Vagrant

First island record. A remarkable six were caught at the Farm on 16th June.

1818 Marbled Pug Eupithecia irriguata Status uncertain

First island records. One was trapped at the Farm on 21st June, followed by two more on 25th June.

1855 Cypress Pug Eupithecia phoeniceata Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 11th September.

1894 Latticed Heath Chiasmia clathrata Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 25th June.

1920 Scalloped Hazel Odontopera bidentate Status uncertain

Forth island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 2nd May.

1922 Swallow-tailed Moth Ourapteryx sambucaria Status uncertain, possibly scarce breeding resident or immigrant

Eighth island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 15th July.

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2040 Four-dotted Footman Cybosia mesomella Status uncertain, probable vagrant

Second, third and fourth island records. One was trapped at North Haven on 15th June, followed by singles at the Farm on 16th and 25th June.

2110 Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata Status uncertain, probable hot weather wanderer

Second island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 27th July.

2155 Dot Moth Melanchra persicariae Probably a hot weather wanderer

Fourth and fifth island records. Singles were trapped at the Farm on 25th June and 4th September.

2191 Double Line Mythimna turca Status uncertain

Second island record. One of these nationally scarce UKBAP species was trapped at the Farm on 1st July.

2205 Shoulder-striped Wainscot Mythimna comma Status uncertain, probable hot weather wanderer

Third, fourth and fifth island records. Individuals were trapped at the Farm on 1st, 16th and 25th June.

2326 Clouded-bordered Brindle Apamea crenata Status uncertain

Fourth and fifth island records (involving seven individuals in total. Singles were trapped at the Farm on 16th and 29th June.

2368 Crescent Celaena leucostigma Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at the North Pond Research Hide on 27th July.

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Crescent 2014. J. Moss ©

2387 Mottled Rustic Caradrina Morpheus Status uncertain

First confirmed island records. Sixteen individuals were trapped at the Farm on six nights between 25th June and 27th July, with a peak count of eight on 26th July.

2484 Pinion-streaked Snout Schrankia costaestrigalis Overlooked breeding resident

First confirmed island records. Singles were trapped on four dates between 29th June and 18th September, both at the Farm and by the North Valley Research hide.

Migrant moths

464 Diamond-back Moth Plutella xylostella Breeding Immigrant

A total of 22 individuals were noted across 12 trapping dates between 14th May and 5th October, with a max count of five at the Farm on 18th September.

1395 Rusty-dot Pearl Udea ferrugalis Immigrant, probably breeding some years

A total of 47 individuals were noted across 22 dates between 13th June and 20th November, with a maximum count of seven on 11th November. This species was noted frequently both during diurnal and nocturnal searches, as well as in the moth traps.

1398 Rush Veneer Nomophila noctuella Immigrant

A total of 12 individuals were noted across six trapping dates between 10th September and 5th October, with a peak count of five on 5th October.

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1984 Hummingbird Hawkmoth Macroglossum stellatarum Regular migrant, large influxes some years

A total of 10 individuals were noted across nine dates between 17th June and 9th November, with a peak of two on 17th June.

2091 Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon Common migrant, possibly breeding some years

A total of 14 individuals were noted across 11 nights between 16th March and 5th October, with a maximum count of three on the latter date at North Haven.

2119 Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia Common immigrant

A total of 10 individuals were trapped over four nights between 22nd July and 3rd August, with a peak of four on 26th July at the Farm. 2195 Delicate Mythimna vitellina Regular migrant

There were two records this year, with singles on 14th and 26th September at the Farm.

2441 Silver Y Autographa gamma Common migrant

A total of 41 individuals were noted across 19 dates between 15th June and 15th November, with a peak of five on 4th September. This species was noted frequently both during the day and in the moth traps.

Silver Y 2014. J. Moss ©

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2015

Moth recording from the Farm area was conducted on 42 dates in 2015, with 31 Robinson trap-nights, eight Heath trap-nights, one Skinner trap-night and two diurnal searches. A total of 4923 individual moths of 187 species were recorded through trapping at the Farm, North Valley Crossing, North Valley Blackthorn, Moorey Mere, North Haven and North Pond Research Hide, plus also through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation. A total of 16 1st records and eight 2nd records for the island were noted.

Moth recording from the North Haven area was conducted on 101 dates in 2014, with 24 Heath trap-nights and 76 dates of diurnal searches. A total of 2308 individual moths of 114 species were recorded through trapping at North Haven and through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation in various parts of the island. A total of six 1st records, two 2nd records and two 3rd records for the island were noted.

Buff-tip, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

Notable Breeding Species

383 Thrift Clearwing Synansphecia muscaeformis Common breeding resident

Noted on South Castle on two dates, with four on 23rd July and one on 25th July, and at South Plateau on 23rd July, with four noted.

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Thrift Clearwing, South Plateau 2015. J. Moss ©

2169 Barrett’s Marbled Coronet Hadena luteago Nationally scarce breeding resident on costal slopes

A total of four individuals were trapped across three dates, with one at North Haven on 21st June, one at the Farm on 29th June and two on 30th June, again at North Haven.

2206 Devonshire Wainscot Mythimna putrescens Nationally scarce breeding resident on coastal slopes

Two were trapped at North Haven on 21st August.

2253 Black-banded Polymixis xanthomista Nationally scarce breeding resident on coastal slopes

Singles were trapped at North Haven on 30th August and 27th September.

2373 Webb’s Wainscot Archanara sparganii Nationally scarce breeding resident, restricted to North Pond

An impressive seven individuals were trapped on 21st August, when a Heath trap was placed overnight at North Pond.

Notable Island Records Micros

68 Stigmella salicis Status uncertain

First Skomer record. Leaf mine found on Blackthorn in North Valley on 21st August.

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246 Tinea semifulvella Status uncertain, probably an under-recorded breeding resident

Sixth island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 11th June.

288 Caloptilia stigmatella Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 5th April.

422 Argyresthia albistria Status uncertain

Second island record. One was found on 21st August 2015 on Blackthorn in North Valley.

873 Blastobasis adjustella Status uncertain, possible recent colonist?

Second island record. Six were trapped on 21th August, near Blackthorn in the North Valley and by the Farm.

695 Agonopterix alstroemeriana Status uncertain, possible overlooked breeding resident

Third and fourth island records. One was trapped at North Haven on 21st August, followed by another found during the day at North Haven on 28th October.

697 Agonopterix arenella Status uncertain

First island record. Two were trapped on 21st August at Moorey Mere.

698 Agonopterix kaekeritziana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 21st August at Moorey Mere.

714 Agonopterix yeatiana Status uncertain

First confirmed island record. Three were trapped on 21st August at Moorey Mere

779 Bryotropha affinis Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 21st August at the Farm.

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787 Bryotropha terrella Status uncertain

First Island record. One was trapped near Blackthorn in the North Valley on 21st August.

853 Anacampsis populella Overlooked breeding resident

Third island record. One was trapped on 21st August near Blackthorn in North Valley

868 Helcytogramma rufescens Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 21st August in North Haven.

924 Hysterophora maculosana Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped on 27th May at North Haven.

946 Aethes rubigana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 19th July at North Haven.

970 Barred Fruit-tree tortrix Pandemis cerasana Status uncertain

First island record. Six were trapped on 21st August, with four caught near North Pond and two near Blackthorn in North Valley.

989 Timothy Tortrix Aphelia paleana Status uncertain

First and second island records. One was trapped on 21st June at North Haven, followed by one found during a diurnal search of North Valley on 21st August.

1042 Rhomboid Tortrix Acleris rhombana Status uncertain

Second island record. One was found on 21st August during a diurnal search of North Valley.

1067 Celypha cespitana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 21st August near Blackthorn in North Valley.

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1068 Celypha rivulana Status uncertain

First and second island records. One was trapped at the Farm on 17th August, followed by another single trapped on 21st August near Blackthorn in North Valley.

1159 Holly Tortrix Rhopobota naevana Vagrant, or overlooked resident

First island record. Six individuals were trapped on 21st August in North Valley and near North pond.

1279 Dichrorampha acuminatana Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 30th August at North Haven.

1334 Scoparia ambigualis Common breeding resident overlooked recently?

First record since 2007. One was trapped on 17th August at the Farm.

1338 Eudonia lacustrata Status uncertain

Second and third island records. One was trapped on 1st August at the Farm, followed by two at the Farm on 21st August.

1464 Thistle Ermine Myelois circumvoluta Status uncertain

Third and fourth island records. One was trapped on 21st June at North Haven, followed by another trapped on 19th July at the Farm.

1524 Common Plume Emmelina monodactyla Status uncertain

Second island record. One was found during a diurnal search on 21st August in the North Valley.

Macros

1682 Blood-vein Timandra comae Status uncertain

Fifth island record. One was trapped on 21st August near Blackthorn in the North Valley.

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1692 Lesser Cream Wave Scopula immutata Status uncertain, possible extinct former resident?

First since 1960. Four were recorded on 21st August, with one during a diurnal search in North Valley, one trapped near North Pond and two trapped at North Valley Crossing.

1758 Barred Straw Eulithis pyraliata Status uncertain, possible hot weather wanderer?

Forth island record. One was trapped on 12th July at the Farm.

1789 Scallop Shell Hydria undulata Status uncertain

First island record. A worn individual was trapped on 19th July at the Farm.

1923 Feathered Thorn Colotois pennaria Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 2nd November at north Haven.

1961 Light Emerald Campaea margaritata Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped on 27th September at North Haven.

2003 Pebble Prominent Notodonta ziczac Status uncertain

Third island record. One was trapped on 10th May at North Haven.

2110 Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata Status uncertain, probable hot weather wanderer

Third island record. One was trapped on 23rd July at the Farm.

2128 Double Square-spot Xestia triangulum Multiple reports in several years but possibly all misidentified Triple-spotted clays? Not recorded by Nick Littlewood and hasn’t been found recently despite careful checking.

First confirmed record. One was trapped on 21st August near Blackthorn in North Valley.

2192 Brown-line Bright-eye Mythimna conigera Extinct former resident

First record since 1999. One was trapped on 21st August at North Valley Crossing.

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2205 Shoulder-striped Wainscot Mythimna comma Status uncertain, probable hot weather wanderer

Sixth - ninth island records. Individuals were trapped at the Farm on 11th and29th June and 2nd and 10th July.

2241 Red Sword-grass Xylena vetusta Status uncertain

Second island record. One was trapped on 4th October at North Haven.

2267 Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis Status uncertain, possibly a scarce breeding resident

First record since 2007. One was trapped on 15th September at the Farm.

2322 Light Arches Apamea lithoxylaea Status uncertain

Seventh island record. One was trapped on 29th June at the Farm.

2368 Crescent Celaena leucostigma Status uncertain

Second island record (first in 2014). One was trapped on 10th September at the Farm.

2449 Dark Spectacle Abrostola triplasia Vagrant?

Second island record. One was trapped on 23rd July at the Farm.

Migrant Moths

464 Diamond-back Moth Plutella xylostella Breeding Immigrant

A poor showing. Noted on three dates, with four trapped on 11th June, one on 2nd July and two on 23rd July, all trapped at the Farm.

1395 Rusty-dot Pearl Udea ferrugalis Immigrant, probably breeding some years

A total of 18 individuals were noted on 13 trapping nights between 16th June and 11th November, with a maximum count of two on several dates.

1398 Rush Veneer Nomophila noctuella Immigrant

A total of 78 individuals were noted on 30 dates between 12th June and 13th October, with a peak count of 23 on 12th July noted both in the Farm trap and during diurnal searches.

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1972 Convolvulus Hawkmoth Agrius convolvuli Regular autumn migrant

Two individuals were trapped at the farm, with one on 19th July and another on 6th August.

Convolvulus Hawkmoth, Farm 2015. J. Moss ©

1984 Hummingbird Hawkmoth Macroglossum stellatarum Regular migrant, large influxes some years

A total of 18 individuals were reported on 17 dates between 5th June and 17th September, with a peak count of two on 14th August.

2091 Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon Common migrant, possibly breeding some years

A total of 22 individuals were trapped over eight dates between 11th June and 13th October, with a peak count of nine on 10th September at the Farm.

2119 Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia Common immigrant

A total of seven individuals were trapped on six dates between 30th June and 13th October, with a peak of two trapped at the Farm on 29th September.

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2195 Delicate Mythimna vitellina Regular migrant

One was trapped on 9th October at the Farm.

2385 Small Mottled Willow Spodoptera exigua Rare migrant

Two individuals were trapped this year, with one on 11th June and one on 19th July, both at the Farm.

2400 Scarce Bordered Straw Helicoverpa armigera Rare migrant

Fifth island record. One was trapped on 11th September at North Haven.

2403 Bordered Straw Heliothis peltigera Rare migrant

A good year. A total of 12 individuals were trapped on seven nights between 16th May and 10th July with a peak of six trapped on 11th June at the Farm.

2441 Silver Y Autographa gamma Common migrant

A total of 469 individuals were noted over 55 dates between 5th June and 17th November, with a peak count of 130 on 30th September, noted during diurnal recording.

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2016

Moth recording from the Farm area was conducted on 62 dates in 2016, with 43 Robinson trap-nights, seven Heath trap-nights, six diurnal searches, three nocturnal searches (for nectaring species) and two Sugaring sessions. A total of 3121 individual moths of 134 species were recorded through trapping at the Farm, the Well, Gorse hill, the Amos Research Path, North Valley Crossing and North Pond Research Hide, plus also through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation. A total of six 1st records, three 2nd records and one 3rd record for the island were noted.

Moth recording from the North Haven area was conducted on 75 dates in 2016, with 26 Heath trap-nights, one Skinner trap-night and 48 dates of diurnal searches and casual records. A total of 2953 individual moths of 138 species were recorded through trapping at North Haven and through casual recording of day flying moths and species disturbed from vegetation in various parts of the island. A total of six 1st records, three 2nd records and four 3rd records for the island were noted.

Black Rustic, Farm 2015. J. Moss ©

Notable Breeding Species

383 Thrift Clearwing Synansphecia muscaeformis Common breeding resident

Three individuals were noted at South Castle on 22nd June.

2169 Barrett’s Marbled Coronet Hadena luteago Nationally scarce breeding resident on costal slopes

A good year for North Haven records, with 11 individuals trapped in total. Two were caught on 5th June, eight on 10th and one on 19th June.

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2206 Devonshire Wainscot Mythimna putrescens Nationally scarce breeding resident on coastal slopes

Six individuals were trapped over four dates at North Haven, with one on 12th July, three on 15th July, one on 24th July and one on 30th July.

2253 Black-banded Polymixis xanthomista Nationally scarce breeding resident on coastal slopes

Only two records this year, with one on 7th September and another on 15th September, both at North Haven.

Notable Island Records Micros

186 Psyche casta Overlooked breeding resident?

Second and third modern day records, following one in 2013. Larval cases were abundant in 1921. A larval case was found on 18th May, and an adult was caught at North Haven on 24th July.

240 Tinea pellionella Case-bearing Clothes Moth Status uncerain

First island record. One was trapped in the volunteer block during the day on 15th October, and later confirmed through examination of genitalia.

294 Aspilapteryx tringipennella Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 19th August.

388 Miller’s Nettle-tap Prochoreutis myllerana Status uncertain

First island record, 8th for Pembrokeshire. One was noted on Fleabane along the North Pond Research Path on 4th August.

Miller’s Nettle-tap, North Valley 2016. J. Moss ©

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397 Glyphipterix thrasonella Status uncertain

Fourth and fifth island records. One was found at Moorey Mere on 13th June and another was trapped at North Haven on 19th June.

649 Esperia sulphurella Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 5th June.

695 Agonopterix alstroemeriana Status uncertain, possible overlooked breeding resident

Fifth and sixth island records. One was found in the warden’s house on 11th March, having probably overwintered. Another was found at the Farm on 20th April.

706 Agonopterix nervosa Status uncertain

First island record. One was found on 30th July.

789 Bryotropha domestica Status uncertain

First island record, 10th for Pembrokeshire. One was recorded on 13th August.

822 Scrobipalpa acumitellana Status uncertain

First island record, 2nd for Pembrokeshire. One was trapped at North Haven on 5th June.

893 Mompha epilobiella Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped in the volunteer block during the day on 15th October, and later confirmed through examination of genitalia.

924 Hysterophora maculosana Status uncertain

Second and third island records, following one in 1998. One was trapped at the Farm on 23rd May followed by four noted in South Field and Gorse Hill on 28th May.

986 Syndemis musculana Status uncertain

First confirmed island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 26th May.

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1067 Celypha cespitana Status uncertain

Second island record, following one in 2015. One was found on 2nf September.

1068 Celypha rivulana Status uncertain

Third and fourth island records. Singles were trapped at the Farm on 18th May and 29th August.

1082 Hedya pruniana Status uncertain

Third island record. Several were noted at Blackthorn in North Valley on 4th July.

1198 Crocidosema plebejana Status uncertain

Third island record, following one in 2014. One was trapped at North Haven on 15th September.

1255 Cydia ulicetana Status uncertain, probably an overlooked breeding resident

Second island record. One was discovered on Gorse in Gorse Hill on 17th May.

1348 Ringed China-mark Parapoynx stratiotata Status uncertain

First island record. Two were trapped at North Valley Crossing on 18th July.

1361 Pyrausta aurata Status uncertain

First island record, first for Pembrokeshire. One was found in the Farm kitchen on 2nd August.

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Pyrausta aurata, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

1377 Anania fuscalis Status uncertain

First island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 5th June.

1524 Common Plume Emmelina monodactyla Status uncertain

Third island record, following one in 2015. One was trapped at North Haven on 18th September.

Macros

1803 Small Rivulet Perizoma alchemillata Status uncertain

Forth island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 15th July.

1883 Yellow-barred Brindle Acasis viretata Status uncertain

Third island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 13th August.

2147 Shears Hada plebeja Probably an extinct breeding resident or transient resident

First record since one in 2007. One was trapped at North Haven on 5th June.

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2179 Pine Beauty Panolis flammea Vagrant

Second island record, following one in 2007. One was trapped at North Haven on 8th May 2092 Shuttle-shaped Dart Agrotis puta Vagrant

Third island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 26th May.

2235 Tawny Pinion Lithophane semibrunnea Vagrant

First and second island records. Singles were trapped at the Farm on 9th and 13th October.

Tawny Pinion, Farm 2016. J. Moss ©

2237 Grey Shoulder-knot Lithophane ornitopus Vagrant

First island record. One was trapped at North Haven on 8th May.

2267 Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis Status uncertain, possibly a scarce breeding resident

First since 2007. One was trapped at theFarm on 20th October.

2297 Copper Underwing Amphipyra pyramidea Vagrant

First confirmed island record. One was found dead at North Haven on 26th May.

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2368 Crescent Celaena leucostigma Status uncertain

Third island record, following records in 2014 and 2015. One was found at the Farm on 1st August.

Migrant Moths

464 Diamond-back Moth Plutella xylostella Breeding Immigrant

A good year. Probably upwards of 100,000 individuals were recorded across 27 dates between 14th May and 21st September, with a peak count of over 10,000 on the island on 15th June. The total present would have been significantly higher, but the species was recorded only as ‘present’ or ‘abundant’ on many dates.

1395 Rusty-dot Pearl Udea ferrugalis Immigrant, probably breeding some years

A total of 21 individuals were noted on 10 dates between 27th August and 30th October, with a peak of four on 26th August. Records came from a mixture of the islands moth traps, and also through searching for nec- taring individuals at night.

1398 Rush Veneer Nomophila noctuella Immigrant

A total of 113 individuals were noted on 27 dates between 24th July and 4th November, with peaks of 16 trapped at North Haven on 15th September and 30 noted during a nocturnal search of nectaring individuals on 15th September.

1716 The Vestal Rhodometra sacraria Rare migrant

Noted on three dates, with three trapped at the Farm and one found during the day on the Neck on 14th September and one trapped at north Haven on 18th September. These are the first records since 2011.

1972 Convolvulus Hawkmoth Agrius convolvuli Regular autumn migrant

A good year with four individuals noted. Three were attracted to the Farm moth trap on 14th September, followed by one at North Haven on 28th September, though the latter record only involved the presence of one wing in the trap, the rest having probably been eaten by a very voracious Wren!

1984 Hummingbird Hawkmoth Macroglossum stellatarum Regular migrant, large influxes some years

Five individuals were noted, with two on 26th and 27th September and one on 2nd October.

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2091 Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon Common migrant, possibly breeding some years

A total of 20 individuals were noted on 10 dates between 8th May and 4th November, with a peak count of seven trapped at the Farm on 14th August.

2119 Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia Common immigrant

Singles were trapped at the Farm on 15th September and 9th, 20th and 22nd October. 2195 Delicate Mythimna vitellina Regular migrant

One record this year, with one trapped at the Farm on 9th October.

Delicate 2016. J. Moss ©

2203 White-spec Mythimna unipuncta Scarce migrant

One was trapped at North Haven on 15th September.

2400 Scarce Bordered Straw Helicoverpa armigera Rare migrant

Sixth island record. One was trapped at the Farm on 10th September.

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2441 Silver Y Autographa gamma Common migrant

A total of 183 individuals were noted on 34 dates between 30th May and 27th October, with peak counts of 50 on 5th June and 45 on 14th September.

References

Taylor, R., 2016. Pembrokeshire moth list with instructions, macro moths. Skomer Island library. Unpublished.

Randal, Z., 2016. Micro moth list with Pembs records and ID guidance. Skomer Island library. Unpublished.

Boyle, D., 2013. Skomer moth records, a complete systematic list. Skomer island library. Unpublished.

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Systematic checklist of the moths of Skomer Island Jason Moss Assistant Warden

The following is a complete checklist of the micro and macro moths recorded on Skomer Island, up to date to the end of 2016. This is intended both as an official record of the status of the islands moths up to 2016, and also as an aid for interested parties, providing an up-to-date reference of those species which are likely to be encountered, and their island status. All species included within the list have, where necessary, been checked by an expert through examination of genitalia, or are confirmed via photographic documentation. For further in-depth information on the status and occurrence of the various species listed here, please refer either to Skomer moth records, a complete systematic list (Boyle, D., 2013), or the island record cards which can be found in the island library.

The Skomer Island list currently stands at 400 species.

Breeding categories BR Breeding resident VCBR Very common breeding resident CBR Common breeding resident SBR Scarce breeding resident TR Transient resident OBR Overlooked breeding resident RC Recent colonist

Migrant categories I Immigrant BI Breeding immigrant CI Common immigrant SI Scarce immigrant RI Rare immigrant V Vagrant HWW Hot weather wanderer AI Accidental Import

NS Nationally Scarce EX Extinct SU Status unknown     

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 4 Micropterix aruncella (SU)  440 Paraswammerdamia albicapitella (SU)  5 Micropterix calthella (SU)  464 Plutella xylostella Diamond-back Moth (BI)  14 Hepialus humuli Ghost Moth (SU) (EX)  467 Rhigognostis annulatella (SU)  15 Hepialus sylvina Orange Swift (CBR)  470 Orthotelia sparganella (SU)  17 Hepialus lupulinus Common Swift (CBR)  582 Coleophora glaucicolella (SU) (BR?)  18 Hepialus fusconebulosa Map-winged Swift (CBR)  584 Coleophora alticolella (SU) (BR?)  67 Stigmella plagicolella (OBR)  587 Coleophora caespititiella (SU) (BR?)  68 Stigmella salicis (SU)  607 Elachista canapennella (SU)  121 Pseudopostega crepusculella (SU)  644 Brokhausenia fuscescens (SU)  169 Zygaena filipendulae Six-spot Burnet (SU)  647 Hofmannophila pseudospretella Brown House Moth (CBR)  170 Zygaena trifolii Five-spot Burnet agg (CBR)  648 Endrosis sarcitrella White-shouldered House Moth (CBR)  186 Psyche casta (OBR)  649 Esperia sulphurella (SU)  227 Monopis laevigella Skin Moth (SU)  670 Depressaria daucella (CBR)  228 Monopsis weaverella (SU)  671 Depressaria ultimella (SU)  230 Monopis crocicapitella (RC)  672 Depressaria pastinacella Parsnip Moth (SU)  237 Niditinea fuscella Brown-dotted House Moth (SU)  695 Agonopterix alstroemeriana (SU) (OBR?)  240 Tinea pellionella Case-bearing Clothes Moth (SU)  697 Agonopterix arenella (SU)  246 Tinea semifulvella (SU)  698 Agonopterix kaekeritiziana (SU)  288 Caloptilia stigmatella (SU)  713 Agonopterix angelicella (SU)  383 Synansphecia muscaeformis Thrift Clearwing (CBR)  714 Agonopterix yeatiana (SU)  385 Anthophila fabriciana Nettle-tap (CBR)  728 Monochroa cytisella (CBR)  386 Tebenna micalis (BI?)  735 Monochroa tenebrella (SU)  388 Prochoreutis myllerana (SU)  776 Teleiopsis diffinis (SU) (OBR?)  397 Glyphipterix thrasonella (SU) (OBR)  779 Bryotropha affinis (SU)  417 Argyresthia spinosella (SU) (OBR)  787 Bryotropha terrella (SU)  422 Argyresthia albistria (SU)  819 Scrobipalpa costella (SU)  428 Yponomeuta rorrella Willow Ermine (SU)  826 Caryocolom vicinella (SU)

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 829 Carycolom marmoreum (SU)  1042 Acleris rhombana Rhomboid Tortrix (SU)  853 Anacampsis populella (OBR)  1043 Acleris aspersana (SU)  868 Helcystogramma rufescens (SU)  1048 Acleris variegana Garden Rose Tortrix (BR?)  873 Blastobasis adjustella (SU) (RC?)  1067 Celypha cespitana (SU)  893 Mompha epilobiella (SU)  1068 Celypha rivulana (SU)  924 Hysterophora maculosana (SU)  1076 Celypha lacunana (VCBR)  937 Agapeta hamana (BR)  1082 Hedya pruniana Plum Tortrix (SU)  945 Aethes cnicana (BR)  1087 Orthotaenia undulana (SU) (OBR?)  946 Aethes rubigana (SU)  1104 Endothenia quadrimaculana (SU)  954 Eupoecilia angustana (SU) (OBR?)  1109 Lobesia littoralis (BR)  964 Cochlis dupitana (SU)  1111 Bactra lancealana (VCBR)  966 Cochylis atricapitana (CBR)  1132 Epinotia subocellana (SU)  970 Pandemis cerasana Barred Fruit-tree Tortrix (SU)  1134 Epinotia ramella (SU)  972 Pandemis heparana Dark Fruit-tree Tortrix (BR?)  1156 Epinotia solandriana (SU)  977 Archips podana Large Fruit-tree Tortrix (BR?)  1157 Crocidosema plebejana (SU)  986 Syndemis musculana (SU)  1159 Rhopobota naevana Holly Tortrix (SU)  989 Aphelia paleana Timothy Tortrix (SU)  1169 Gypsonoma dealbana (SU)  993 Clepsis spectrana Cyclamen Tortrix (BR)  1175 Notocelia uddmanniana Bramble-shoot Moth (CBR)  994 Clepsis consimilana (SU) (BR?)  1184 Epiblema scutulana (CBR)  998 Epiphyas postvittana Light-brown Apple Moth (SU)  1197 Eucosma campoliliana (SU) (BR?)  1002 Lozotaenia forsterana (BR)  1201 Eucosma cana (CBR)  1019 Cnephasia conspersana (BR)  1204 Thiodia citrana (SU)  1029 Eana osseana (SU)  1255 Cydia ulicetana (SU)  1032 Aleimma loeflingiana (SU) (HWW?)  1261 Cydia pomonella Codlng Moth (AI)  1033 Tortrix viridana Green Oak Tortrix (V)  1272 Pammene aurana (SU)  1037 Acleris holmiana (SU)  1279 Dichrorampha acuminatana (SU)  1038 Acleris laterana (SU) (OBR?)  1288 Alucita hexadactyla Twenty-plume Moth (BR)

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 1293 Chrysoteuchia culmella (CBR)  1405 Pleuroptya ruralis Mother of Pearl (SBR)  1294 Crambus pascuella (SU)  1424 Endotricha flammealis (CBR)  1304 Agriphila straminella (VCBR)  1428 Aphomia sociella Bee Moth (SU)  1305 Agriphila tristella (BR)  1458 Myelois cribrella Thistle Ermine (SU)  1306 Agriphila inquinatella (SU) (BR?)  1484 Phycitodes saxicola (CBR)  1309 Agriphila geniculea (VCBR)  1497 Oidaematophorus lithodactyla Beautiful Plume (SU)  1333 Scoparia pyralella (CBR)  1523 Oidaematophorus lithodactyla Dusky Plume (BR)  1334 Scoparia ambigualis (CBR)  1524 Emmelina monodactyla Common Plume (BR)  1336 Eudonia pallida (SU) (OBR?)  1634 Malacosoma neustria Lackey (CBR)  1338 Eudonia lacustrata (SU)  1637 Lasiocampa quercus Oak Eggar (CBR)  1341 Eudonia lineola (BR)  1638 Macrothylacia rubi Fox Moth (SU) (EX)  1342 Eudonia angustea (BR)  1640 Euthrix potatoria Drinker (SU)  1344 Eudonia mercurella (BR)  1643 Saturnia pavonia Emperor Moth (CBR)  1345 Elophila nymphaeata Brown China-mark (BR)  1651 Cilix glaucata Chinese Character (RC?)  1348 Parapoynx stratiotata (V)  1653 Habrosyne pyritoides Buff Arches (SU)  1361 Pyrausta aurata (V)  1665 Pseudoterpna pruinata Grass Emerald (SU) (RC?)  1362 Pyrausta purpuralis (SU) (V)  1669 Hemithea aestivaria Common Emerald (CBR)  1365 Pyrausta despicata (SU)  1682 Timandra comae Blood-vein (SU)  1370 Sitochroa palealis (V)  1689 Scopula marginepunctata Mullein Wave (CBR)  1375 Ostrinia nubilalis European Corn-borer (V)  1692 Scopula immutata Lesser Cream Wave (SU) (EX)  1376 Eurrhypara hortulata Small Magpie (BR)  1693 Scopula floslactata Cream Wave (SU)  1385 Anania crocealis (SU) (RC?)  1702 Idaea biselata Small Fan-footed Wave (CBR)  1388 Udea lutealis (SU) (OBR?)  1708 Idaea dimidiata Single-dotted Wave (CBR)  1395 Udea ferrugalis Rusty-dot Pearl (I)  1709 Idaea subsericeata Satin Wave (CBR)  1397 Mecyna asinalis (SU) (BR?)  1713 Idaea aversata Riband Wave (CBR)  1398 Nomophila noctuella Rush Veneer (I)  1715 Idaea straminata Plain Wave (SU)  1404 Spoladea recurvalis (V)  1716 Rhodometra sacraria Vestal (RI)

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 1719 Orthonama vittata Oblique Carpet (SU)  1794 Euphyia unangulata Sharp-angled Carpet (SU)  1720 Orthonama obstipata Gem (RI)  1802 Perizoma affinitata The Rivulet (SU)  1722 Xanthorhoe designata Flame Carpet (SU) (HWW?)  1803 Perizoma alchemillata Small Rivulet (SU)  1724 Xanthorhoe spadicearia Red Twin-spot Carpet (CBR)  1808 Perizoma flavofasciata Sandy Carpet (CBR)  1725 Xanthorhoe ferrugata Dark-barred Twin-spot Carpet (CBR)  1809 Perizoma didymata Twin-spot Carpet (BR)  1727 Xanthorhoe montanata Silver-ground Carpet (SU)  1817 Eupithecia pulchellata Foxglove Pug (CBR)  1728 Xanthorhoe fluctuata Garden Carpet (CBR)  1818 Eupithecia irriguata Marbled Pug (V)  1732 Scotopteryx chenopodiata Shaded Broad-bar (SU)  1823 Eupithecia venosata Netted Pug (CBR)  1734 Scotopteryx luridata July Belle (SU)  1825 Eupithecia centaureata Lime-speck Pug (CBR)  1738 Epirrhoe alternata Common Carpet (CBR)  1827 Eupithecia intricata Freyer's Pug (SU)  1740 Epirrhoe galiata Galium Carpet (SU)  1830 Eupithecia absinthiata Wormwood Pug (CBR)  1742 Camptogramma bilineata Yellow Shell (VCBR)  1831 Eupithecia absinthiata f. goossensiata Ling Pug  1749 Pelurga comitata Dark Spinach (SU)  1834 Eupithecia vulgata Common Pug (CBR)  1750 Lampropteryx suffumata Water Carpet (SU)  1837 Eupithecia subfuscata Grey Pug (CBR)  1752 Cosmorhoe ocellata Purple Bar (SU)  1846 Eupithecia nanata Narrow-winged Pug (CBR)  1755 Eulithis testata Chevron (SU) (BR?)  1855 Eupithecia phoeniceata Cypress Pug (SU)  1757 Eulithis mellinata Spinach (SU) (V)  1858 Chloroclystis v-ata V-Pug (SU)  1758 Eulithis pyraliata Barred Straw (SU) (HWW?)  1860 Pasiphila rectangulata Green Pug (SU)  1759 Ecliptoptera silaceata Small Phoenix (SU)  1862 Gymnoscelis rufifasciata Double-striped Pug (CBR) (RC)  1760 Chloroclysta siterata Red-green Carpet (BR)  1867 Aplocera plagiata Treble-bar (SU) (V?)  1764 Dysstroma truncata Common Marbled Carpet (RC)  1877 Hydrelia sylvata Waved Carpet (SU)  1768 Thera obeliscataGrey Pine Carpet (V)  1883 Acasis viretata Yellow-barred Brindle (SU)  1769 Thera britannica Spruce Carpet (V)  1884 Abraxas grossulariata Magpie (BR)  1776 Colostygia pectinataria Green Carpet (CBR) (RC)  1894 Chiasmia clathrata Latticed Heath (V)  1777 Hydriomena furcata July Highflier (CBR) (RC)  1897 Macaria wauaria V-moth (SU)  1789 Rheumaptera undulata Scalloped Shell (V)  1902 Petrophora chlorosata Brown Silver-line (VCBR)  1793 Euphyia biangulata Cloaked Carpet (SU)  1906 Opisthograptis luteolata Brimstone Moth (BR)

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 1913 Ennomos alniaria Canary-shouldered Thorn (SU)  2026 Orgyia antiqua Vapourer (SU) (EX?)  1917 Selenia dentaria Early Thorn (CBR)  2028 Calliteara pudibunda Pale Tussock (AI)  1920 Odontopera bidentata Scalloped Hazel (SU)  2030 Euproctis similis Yellow-tail (SU) (V?)  1921 Crocallis elinguaria Scalloped Oak (BR)  2035 Thumatha senex Round-winged Muslin (SU) (OBR?)  1922 Ourapteryx sambucaria Swallow-tailed Moth (SU) (SBR?) (I?)  2037 Miltochrista miniata Rosy Footman (SU) (V?)  1923 Colotois pennaria Feathered Thorn (SU)  2038 Nudaria mundana Muslin Footman (CBR)  1931 Biston betularia Peppered Moth (SU)  2040 Cybosia mesomella Four-dotted Footman (SU) (V?)  1934 Agriopis marginaria Dotted Border (SU) (BR?)  2044 Eilema griseola Dingy Footman (SU) (RC?)  1937 Peribatodes rhomboidaria Willow Beauty (CBR)  2045 Eilema caniola Hoary Footman (VCBR)  1941 Alcis repandata Mottled Beauty (CBR)  2047 Eilema complana Scarce Footman (SU)  1945 Cleorodes lichenaria Brussels Lace (V)  2050 Eilema lurideola Common Footman (BR)  1947 Ectropis bistortata Engrailed (SU)  2054 Utetheisa pulchella Crimson Speckled (V)  1954 Bupalus piniaria Bordered White (SU) (HWW?)  2057 Arctia caja Garden Tiger (VCBR)  1956 Cabera exanthemata Common Wave (HWW)  2060 Spilosoma lubricipeda White Ermine (VCBR)  1961 Campaea margaritata Light Emerald (SU)  2061 Spilosoma luteum Buff Ermine (VCBR)  1964 Charissa obscurata Annulet (CBR)  2063 Diaphora mendica Muslin Moth (VCBR)  1968 Semiaspilates ochrearia Yellow Belle (V)  2064 Phragmatobia fuliginosa Ruby Tiger (BR)  1972 Agrius convolvuli Convolvulous Hawkmoth (I)  2068 Callimorpha dominula Scarlet Tiger (BR)  1973 Acherontia atropos Death's Head Hawkmoth (V)  2069 Tyria jacobaeae Cinnabar (BR)  1981 Laothoe populi Poplar Hawkmoth (SU) (SBR?)  2080 Euxoa obelisca Sqaure-spot Dart (VCBR)  1984 Macroglossum stellatarum Hummingbird Hawkmoth (I)  2081 Euxoa tritici White-line Dart (CBR) (RC)  1990 Hyles livornica Striped Hawkmoth (SI)  2085 Agrotis vestigialis Archers Dart (SU)  1992 Deilephila porcellus Small Elephant Hawkmoth (V)  2087 Agrotis segetum Turnip Moth (BR) (CM)  1994 Phalera bucephala Buff-tip (BR)  2089 Agrotis exclamationis Heart and Dart (BR)  1995 Cerura vinula Puss Moth (SU) (SBR)  2090 Agrotis trux Crescent Dart (VCBR)  2003 Notodonta ziczac Pebble Prominent (SU)  2091 Agrotis ipsilon Dark Sword-grass (CM) (BR?)  2011 Pterostoma palpina Pale Prominent (V?)  2092 Agrotis puta Shuttle-shaped Dart (SU) (V?)

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 2093 Agrotis ripae Sand Dart (V)  2163 Melanchra pisi Broom Moth (VCBR)  2098 Axylia putris Flame (SU) (OBR?)  2164 Hecatera bicolorata Broad-barred White (SU)  2102 Ochropleura plecta Flame Shoulder (CBR)  2166 Hadena rivularis Campion (VCBR)  2104 Standfussiana lucernea Northern Rustic (SBR)  2167 Hadena perplexa Tawny Shears/Pod Lover (VCBR)  2107 Noctua pronuba Large Yellow Underwing (CBR)  2169 Hadena luteago Barrett's Marbled Coronet (BR) (NS)  2109 Noctua comes Lesser Yellow Underwing (CBR)  2171 Hadena confusa Marbeld Coronet (VCBR)  2110 Noctua fimbriata Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing (SU) (HWW?)  2173 Hadena bicruris Lychnis (VCBR)  2111 Noctua janthe Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing (BR)  2176 Cerapteryx graminis Antler Moth (VCBR)  2112 Noctua interjecta Least Yellow Underwing (RB)  2178 Tholera decimalis Feathered Gothic (EX?)  2117 Eugnorisma glareosa Autumnal Rustic (VCBR)  2179 Panolis flammea Pine Beauty (V)  2118 Lycophotia porphyrea True Lover's Knot (VCBR)  2182 Orthosia cruda Small Quaker (SU) (OBR?)  2119 Peridroma saucia Pearly Underwing (I)  2186 Orthosia gracilis Powdered Quaker (SU) (OBR?)  2120 Diarsia mendica Ingrailed Clay (CBR)  2187 Orthosia cerasi Common Quaker (BR)  2123 Diarsia rubi Small Square-spot (CBR)  2188 Orthosia incerta Clouded Drab (SU) (OBR?)  2126 Xestia c-nigrum Setaceous Hebrew Character (CBR)  2189 Orthosia munda Twin-spotted Quaker (SU) (OBR?)  2127 Xestia ditrapezium Triple-spotted Clay (VCBR)  2190 Orthosia gothica Hebrew Character (BR)  2128 Xestia triangulum Double Square-spot (SU)  2191 Mythimna turca Double Line (SU)  2130 Xestia baja Dotted Clay (SU)  2192 Mythimna conigera Brown-line Bright-eye (EX)  2134 Xestia xanthographa Square-spot Rustic (VCBR)  2193 Mythimna ferrago Clay (CBR)  2135 Xestia agathina Heath Rustic (SU) (EX?)  2195 Mythimna vitellina Delicate (I)  2138 Anaplectoides prasina Green Arches (V)  2198 Mythimna impura Smoky Wainscot (BR)  2139 Cerastis rubricosa Red Chestnut (VCBR)  2199 Mythimna pallens Common Wainscot (BR)  2145 Discestra trifolii Nutmeg (SU) (SBR?) (RM?)  2202 Mythimna l-album L-album Wainscot (RC)  2147 Hada plebeja Shears (EBR?) (TR?)  2203 Mythimna unipuncta White-spec (SI)  2154 Mamestra brassicae Cabbage Moth (SU)  2205 Mythimna comma Shoulder-striped Wainscot (SU) (HWW?)  2155 Melanchra persicariae Dot Moth (HWW?)  2206 Mythimna putrescens Devonshire Wainscot (BR) (NS)  2160 Lacanobia oleracea Bright-line Brown-eye (VCBR)  2208 Mythimna loreyi Cosmopolitan (SI)

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 2214 Cucullia chamomillae Chamomile Shark (BR)  2302 Rusina ferruginea Brown Rustic (SU)  2216 Cucullia umbratica Shark (SU) (SBR?)  2305 Euplexia lucipara Small Angle Shades (VCBR)  2217 Cucullia asteris Star-wort (SU)  2306 Phlogophora meticulosa Angle Shades (BR) (I)  2229 Dasypolia templi Brindled Ochre (BR)  2318 Cosmia trapezina Dun-bar (SU)  2232 Aporophyla nigra Black Rustic (CBR)  2321 Apamea monoglypha Dark Arches (VCBR)  2235 Lithophane semibrunnea Tawny Pinion (V)  2322 Apamea lithoxylaea Light Arches (SU)  2236 Lithophane hepatica Pale Pinion (SU) (RC?)  2326 Apamea crenata Clouded-bordered Brindle (SU)  2240 Lithophane leautieri Blair's Shoulder-knot (V)  2330 Apamea remissa Dusky Brocade (SBR)  2241 Xylena vetusta Red Sword-grass (SU)  2337 Oligia strigilis [Marbled Minor] (SU)  2252 Polymixis flavicincta Large Ranunculus (CBR)  2338 Oligia versicolor [Rufous Minor] (SU)  2253 Polymixis xanthomista Black-banded (BR) (NS)  2339 Oligia latruncula [Tawny Marbled Minor] (SU)  2255 Polymixis lichenea Feathered Ranunculus (VCBR)  2340 Oligia fasciuncula Middle-barred Minor (SU)  2256 Eupsilia transversa Satellite (SU) (OBR?)  2341 Mesoligia furuncula Cloaked Minor (SU)  2258 Conistra vaccinii Chestnut (SU) (BR?)  2342 Mesoligia literosa Rosy Minor (BR)  2259 Conistra ligula Dark Chestnut (SU) (BR?)  2343 Mesapamea secalis Common Rustic (VCBR)  2262 Agrochola circellaris Brick (BR)  2343a Mesapamea didyma Lesser Common Rustic (VCBR)  2263 Agrochola lota Red-line Quaker (BR)  2345 Photedes minima Small Dotted Buff (SU)  2264 Agrochola macilenta Yellow-line Quaker (BR)  2350 Chortodes pygmina Small Wainscot (BR)  2265 Agrochola helvola Flounced Chestnut (SU)  2353 Luperina testacea Flounced Rustic (VCBR)  2267 Agrochola lychnidis Beaded Chestnut (SU) (OBR?)  2360 Amphipoea oculea Ear Moth (SU)  2270 Omphaloscelis lunosa Lunar Underwing (VCBR)  2361 Hydraecia micacea Rosy Rustic (BR)  2273 Xanthia togata Pink-barred Sallow (BR)  2364 Gortyna flavago Frosted Orange (CBR)  2289 Acronicta rumicis Knot Grass (VCBR)  2368 Celaena leucostigma Crescent (SU)  2293 Cryphia domestica Marbled Beauty (BR)  2369 Nonagria typhae Bulrush Wainscot (BR)  2295 Cryphia muralis Marbled Green (BR)  2373 Archanara sparganii Webb's Wainscot (BR) (NS)  2297 Amphipyra pyramidea Copper Underwing (V)  2375 Rhizedra lutosa Large Wainscot (RI)  2299 Amphipyra tragopoginis Mouse Moth (SU)  2379 Coenobia rufa Small Rufous (SU) (OBR?)

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 2381 Hoplodrina alsines Uncertain (VCBR)  Minor Agg  2382 Hoplodrina blanda Rustic (VCBR)

 2385 Spodoptera exigua Small Mottled Willow (RI)  2387 Caradrina morpheus Mottled Rustic (SU)  2389 Paradrina clavipalpis Pale Mottled Willow (SU) (OBR?)  2394 Stilbia anomala Anomalous (V)  2400 Helicoverpa armigera Scarce Bordered Straw (RI)  2403 Heliothis peltigera Bordered Straw (RI)  2434 Diachrysia chrysitis Burnished Brass (VCBR)  2439 Plusia festucae Gold Spot (RC?) (TR?)  2441 Autographa gamma Silver Y (CI)  2442 Autographa pulchrina Beautiful Golden Y (SU)  2444 Autpgrapha bactea Gold Spangle (V?)  2449 Abrostola triplasia Dark Spectacle (V?)  2450 Abrostola tripartita Spectacle (VCBR)  2466 Lygephila plasinum The Blackneck (V?)  2469 Scoliopteryx libatrix Herald (SU) BR?)  2474 Rivula sericealis Straw Dot (BR)  2477 Hypena proboscidalis Snout (BR)  2484 Schrankia costaestrigalis Pinion-streaked Snout (BR)  2485 Hypenodes humidalis Marsh Oblique-barred (SU) (OBR?)

 Yponomeuta spp. (SU) (HWW)  Coleophora spp.  Cnephasia agg  Scoparia/Eudonia sp  Phycitodes binaevella agg

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Skomer Island Butterfly Report 2016 Alice Brooke

Introduction

Throughout the UK, 2016 was a poor year for butterflies. The Big Butterfly Count 2016, run by Butterfly Conservation, saw a decrease in numbers of most butterfly species, the worst since the survey started in 2010. This was also seen in some of the islands species, with eight of the 17 species recorded in 2016 seeing a decrease in records compared to the previous year. The most commonly recorded species were Red Admiral, Painted Lady and Meadow Brown. Three possible, yet unconfirmed sightings of rare island species were noted this year, including a Clouded Yellow, Common Blue and Orange Tip.

A weekly butterfly transect is carried out by staff and long term volunteers on Skomer. The transect runs from North Haven to the farm, to High Cliff and then back to North Haven, covering an area of around 1Km. All butterflies, and moths, seen are recorded for the UK Butterfly monitoring scheme. Other casual records are noted daily during the island log to keep an ongoing record of species and numbers seen. These sightings come from staff, volunteers and visitors, and include butterflies and caterpillars. During days when large numbers of migrating butterflies are seen, timed counts of 5 minutes are carried out, this allows an estimation of individuals to be calculated for the day.

The year began with the first Red Admiral, seen on 28/2/16, sightings of butterflies were then sporadic until April and May. April saw an emergence of Peacock butterflies followed in May by an emergence of Red Admirals. Painted ladies were seen in good numbers in June as well as Meadow Browns and Red Admirals. July had the most diverse range of sightings with 15 species recorded, most commonly Red Admirals, White species and Meadow brown. Apparent migration of Red Admirals was seen in August and September, as well as good numbers of Small Coppers in September (which had been scarce during the rest of the year). In this report of Skomer butterflies, only data from the bird log is used.

Systematic list of Butterflies

Peacock Aglais io Breeder

The Peacock butterfly has been less successful than last year (2015), with a total of 207 records, compared with 418 in 2016. The first sighting of the year was on the 1st March. The season was one of two halves for the Peacock with records occurring and increasing in March and April, followed by a decrease in sightings in May and June, with only one individual spotted in June. Records then began to pick up in July and August with regular sightings. This was then followed by a decrease in frequency of sightings again towards the end of the season.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Total Records 0 22 87 10 1 49 32 4 2 0 Table 14 Total Monthly records of Peacock Butterfly’s

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Small Tortoiseshell Aglais urticae Breeder

The Small Tortoiseshell had a relatively poor year compared to the last two, with only 87 records in total, compared to 628 records in 2015 and 210 records in 2014. The first was noted on the 30th March. August and September had the greatest number of records, 36 and 28 retrospectively, with small numbers of the species seen in May, June and July.

Small Tortoiseshell, 2016 E. Stubbings ©

Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta Breeder and Migrant

The Red Admiral was the most common species of butterfly seen on Skomer with 2526 records in 2016, an increase on the total records in 2014 and 2015 of around 1,300. They were seen daily from June onwards and, in the autumn, were often seen migrating south. The first Red Admiral of the season was seen 28/2/16 and were then seen in small numbers in May, June and July. Migration was noted from August onwards, with the largest count of the year of approximately 960 Red Admirals moving south east on the 14/9/16 between 10 am and 8pm.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Max count 1 0 2 6 26 70 70 960 588 1 Table 15 Maximum monthly counts of Red Admiral

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Red Admiral, North Valley 2016 J. Moss ©

Unidentified White Species Breeder and Migrant

White species can be difficult to identify, particularly in flight and are recorded as white sp where the species was not known with certainty. A total of 202 unidentified white butterflies were recorded in 2016 out of a total of 427 records for all white species. Numbers seen in 2016 were similar to those of 2014, but greatly more than those of 2015 with only 158 total records for all white species.

Small White Pieris rapae, Breeder and Migrant

First seen in May, the Small White had a good year, with more records than 2015. The year began with the first sighting on the 14th of May. Records were then rare until Mid-July which saw the greatest number of records, the maximum being 10 on the 23rd.Other counts of similar numbers were noted. August and September had smaller numbers of records, with maximum day totals of six and three respectively.

Large White Pieris brassicae Breeder and Migrant

The large white butterfly was first seen in May and had a total of 132 records in 2016. The most records were in July-September, the last sighting of this species was seen 10th October.

Green-veined White Pieris napi Breeder and Migrant

Historically the Green-veined White has been a sporadically recorded species, with total records of 178 in 2007 and 125 in 2000. Numbers in 2016 were much lower, with a total of 18 records mostly recorded between June and September.

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Small Copper Lycaena phlaeas Breeder

Small Coppers had a poor year, with total records being around 100 less than 2015. The peak counts were in September (24 on the 15th), with only small numbers being recorded between May and August. Skomer is home to an interesting aberration of the Small Copper called caeruleopunctata. This causes the butterflies to have a row of blue dots on their hindwings. Since September 2014, butterflies with these blue spots have been noted to get an estimate of how much it effects the population. In 2016 13% of all Small Coppers seen well enough had four blue spots on each hind wing, 19% had three or less and 68% had none at all.

Small Coppers, with a caeruleopunctata individual above, 2016 E. Stubbings and J. Moss ©

Wall Lasiommata megera Rare Breeder

Single Wall butterflies were recorded in May, June and July. A larger number were seen in August, with a total of seven records. There has been a decrease in Wall butterflies in 2016 compared to the last few years. First seen on the 24th May and last seen on the 23rd August. Between 1999 and 2008 there were small numbers of Walls, with higher totals in 1999 and 2004 of 28 and 22 respectively.

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Meadow Brown Maniola jurtina Breeder

One of the most common species of butterfly on Skomer, the Meadow Brown butterfly was first seen in April, becoming more regularly in June and most abundant in July. The number of records in 2016 is similar to numbers recorded in the past few years. However, it is likely that the total numbers on the island are under recorded, as they are often recorded as present on the island without any specific numbered counts.

Painted Lady Vanessa cardui Breeder and Migrant

The second most common butterfly in 2016 on Skomer was the Painted Lady, with 293 records. The largest count of painted ladies was on the 8th of June of 30, with a second emergence in August. Although the overall number of records for 2016 (293) were slightly less than 2015 (398), both years’ numbers are greatly better than the numbers from 2014, of only 53 records.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Max count 0 0 1 2 30 2 10 4 2 0 Table 16 Maximum monthly counts of Painted Lady butterflies

Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Vagrant

August (1) and September (2) were the only records of Speckled Wood, this is similar to the numbers seen in 2015 and 2014. Speckled Wood have only been recorded since 2003 in very small numbers, that have probably been blown over from the mainland.

Clouded Yellow Colias croceus Vagrant

One possible record of the Clouded Yellow was seen by a visitor on 12/9/16. Rarely recorded on Skomer, the Clouded Yellow had two records in 2015 and 2014. Much larger numbers of this species have been recorded historically, in 2000 63 records, 2003 28 records and in 2006 18 records.

Large Skipper Ochlodes sylvanus Breeder

One of the lesser seen species on Skomer, with only five records in July and August. This is a decline on the 20 records for 2015.

Grayling Hipparchia semele Rare Breeder

The first Grayling was recorded on the 6th of July and the last sighting was on the 20th of August. Sightings were regular in July and August. Overall records for 2016 were greater than the past two years with 22 records.

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Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Breeder

Only recorded for two months in 2016, July and August, the first record was 13/07/16. The Maximum count was reported on the 18/07/16 with 12 individuals. The last Gatekeeper was seen on the 29/08/16. Total records in 2016 (55) were greater than 2015 (20) and 2014 (32).

Holly Blue Celastrina argiolus Rare

No Holly Blue butterflies were seen in 2016, historically there have been only a few records. In 2015 there were 2 records, 2006 yielded 20 records which is the most seen on the island in the past 30 years.

Dark Green Fritillary Argynnis aglaja Possible breeder and Migrant

2016 was a good year for Dark Green Fritillary, with a total of 16 records, compared to eight and five records in 2015 and 2014 respectively. Historically the Dark Green Fritillary has been seen sporadically, with only a hand full of records between 2008-2013, maximum counts included 27 in both 2007 and 2004. In 2016 the Dark Green Fritillary butterfly was recorded between May and August, with a peak in records in July, the last record was 13th August.

Ringlet Aphantopus hyperantus Breeder

Ringlets were seen mostly in July, with one record in August. A total of 27 insects were noted and a maximum of six individuals were seen on 15/07/16. These numbers are similar to that seen over the past two years. Historically the numbers of Ringlets were less than those seen in 2016, with less than 10 records 1999-2004.

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Appendix

Species Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Peacock 6 21 2 1 8 7 2 1

Small Tortoiseshell 3 1 3 2 1 7 10 1 1

Red Admiral 1 2 6 11 26 70 960 120 1

Green-veined White 1 1 2 1 3

White sp. 1 3 2 20 10 10 9

Small Copper 2 3 4 1 24 4

Large White 1 2 8 4 15 2

Small White 1 1 10 6 3 4

Meadow Brown 2 1 10 25 6

Painted Lady 1 2 30 2 10 4 2

Grayling 3 2

Gatekeeper 12 3

Dark Green Fritillary 1 1 2 1

Ringlet 6 1 Table 17. The most common butterfly species in 2016 and their maximum day count for each month.

References

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION. The Big Butterfly count 2016 results [online] 2016. Viewed 01/03/2017. http://www.bigbutterflycount.org/2016mainresults

UKBMS. UK butterfly monitoring scheme [online] 2016. Viewed 01/03/2017. http://www.ukbms.org/

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Skomer Island Cetacean Report 2016 Cerridwen Richards

Introduction

Cetaceans are facing increasing pressure from anthropogenic hazards such as sound pollution, shipping traffic, discarded fishing equipment, chemical spills and sewage. Despite this, there is a distinct lack of data about marine species compared to land species. Continual monitoring efforts are of great importance not only on Skomer, but globally, since the data allows distribution and population trends to be explored and the impact of human disturbances to be quantified.

Data in this report were collected through weekly one hour cetacean surveys and casual daily recording that were noted in Bird Log. For the cetacean surveys, the hour was divided into alternating five and ten minute continuous scans. During the five-minute scans, the surveyors counted the number of fins and the total number of cetaceans, and during the ten-minute scans, the surveyors only counted the total number of cetaceans seen. The number of adults, juveniles and calf were also noted.

This year, three species of cetacean were spotted around Skomer; Harbour Porpoise, Common Dolphin and Risso’s Dolphin. A total of 1120 Harbour Porpoise, 429 Common Dolphin and 3 Risso’s Dolphin sightings were made over the season.

Common Dolphin, 2016 E. Stubbings ©

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Systematic List of Cetaceans

Harbour Porpoise Phocoena phocoena Status: Least concern (IUCN)

The total number of sightings for Harbour Porpoise around Skomer this year were 1120. Present throughout the season, but peak sightings were in April and August with 25 and 30 counted in one day, respectively. Harbour Porpoise were most frequently sighted from Skomer Head, The Garland Stone and North Haven.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Max count 12 24 25 22 14 16 30 22 Table 18 Maximum monthly counts of Harbour Porpoise in 2016

Figure 41 Average weekly counts of Harbour Porpoise around Skomer from Feb to Sept 2016

Harbour Porpoise, 2016 Leighton Newman ©

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Common Dolphin Delphinus delphis Status: Least concern (IUCN)

The Common Dolphin only made an appearance during the second half of the season from June onwards. Typically pods of 4 - 10 individuals were seen, but occasionally large pods of 40 Common Dolphin would pass through. Peak counts of 40 were in June and July, yet they were most frequently sighted for a week between August 28th and September 2nd with a total of 72 sightings. Like the Harbour Porpoise, Common Dolphin were most frequently sighted from Skomer Head, The Garland Stone and North Haven.

Month Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Max count 0 0 0 0 40 40 30 20 Table 19 Maximum monthly counts of Common Dolphins in 2016

Figure 42 Average weekly counts of Common Dolphins around Skomer from Feb to Sept 2016

Common Dolphin, North Haven, 2016 Cerridwen Richards ©

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Risso’s Dolphin Grampus griseus Status: Least concern (IUCN)

Skomer was lucky this year to have two sightings of Risso’s dolphins. The first sighting was of a mother and calf just off North Haven on September 14th. The second sighting was ten days later on September 24th off the Garland Stone.

Risso’s Dolphin, North Haven, 2016 Leighton Newman ©

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Skomer Island Reptiles and Amphibians 2016 Alice Brooke

Introduction

There are two reptile transects that are carried out weekly by volunteers on the island between April and September, one around the whole island and one transect around the farm. Both transects include around 20 refugia, often containing Slow Worms, Frogs and Toads. Occasional transects to count Toads and Frogs were undertaken between the farm and North Haven, however these transects were undertaken sporadically. All other ‘casual’ sightings were noted daily during the Islands Bird Log.

Common Toads, Green Pond 2016 J. Moss ©

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Systematic list of Reptiles and Amphibians

Common lizard Zootoca vivipara Breeding resident

Recording of the common lizard is sporadic with greater numbers thought to be on the island than are recorded. The first animal was seen in mid-march with small numbers of sightings continuing throughout the season. The largest count was of 26 individuals on the 18th August, 18 of which were seen basking on the board walk at Moorey Mere.

Slow worm Anguis fragilis Breeding resident

Two immature slow worms were the first sighting on the year, seen 13/3/16 at North Pond. Numbers seen on the two transects were greatest in July and August. The maximum count was of 144 individuals was seen on the Farm reptile transect (11/08/2016) which is an increase to last year’s maximum count of 130 (11/08/2015). The outer Island transect maximum count was 25 on the 24/8/16. Month Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Max count 32 32 70 116 144 86 Table 20 Maximum monthly counts of Slow Worms from the Farm transect.

Month Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Max count 0 4 11 20 25 10 Table 21 Maximum monthly counts of Slow Worms from the Outer Island transect.

Common Frog Rana temporaria Breeding resident

On the 28th February Frog spawn was first noted at the Well Pond. The maximum count of the year was 10 individuals (14/8/16) found between the Farm and North Haven. Frogs on the island have been under recorded for many years, therefore little is known about their population trends.

Palmate newt Lissotriton helveticus Status Unknown

Small numbers of Palmate Newts were noted by volunteers in the spring reptile surveys around the wetter areas of the island (especially Green Pond), however exact numbers on the island are unknown.

Common Toad Bufo bufo Breeding resident

The Toad is widespread around the island, most commonly seen hunting at night along the paths. Numbers of toads are also recorded on the reptile transects. Spawn was first noted on Moorey Mere 21st March. The maximum count between the farm and North Haven was 227 (14/8/16), with regular recordings of around 100 or more individuals. On the 26th July, a toad was noted to have eaten multiple Cinnabar Moth caterpillars.

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