Ceredigion Bird Report 2018

Home , Aberbanc, Aberystwyth, Brynhoffnant, Camddwr, Cors Caron, Cors Fochno

Ceredigion Bird Report

2018 0

Front cover image of Rosy Starling by Shane Jones 1

CEREDIGION BIRD REPORT 2018

Contents

Editorial and submission of records, Arfon Williams page 3 Systematic list, Russell Jones 6 Earliest and last dates of migrants, Arfon Williams 50 The breeding birds of Long Wood, Ian Morris 51 The Ceredigion bird ringing report, Mark Cutts 54 Gazetteer of Ceredigion places 57

Printed in January 2020 by Print Services – University of Wales Trinity Saint David www.uwtsd.ac.uk Typesetting, layout and design by the editor.

County Recorder and Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) Organiser: Russell Jones, Bron-y-gan, Talybont, Ceredigion, SY24 5ER Email: [email protected]

British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) Representative: Naomi Davies Email: [email protected] Tel: 07857 102286

Editorial

A total of 212 species were seen in Ceredigion in 2018, a typical annual figure. There were no new county firsts, however the female King Eider, first seen in 2017, returned for a second year. Other rarities were a White Stork circling with Kites over Nant Yr Arian, multiple Cattle and Great Egrets, a Kentish Plover trapped for ringing at Ynyslas, a Red-necked Phalarope, a Ring-billed Gull, a Hoopoe, a Woodchat Shrike, a least four Rosy Starlings, the first two Tree Sparrows for twenty years, a Richard’s Pipit and a small number of Hawfinches, which probably arrived as part of the previous year’s unprecedented invasion.

Whilst some species are appearing more frequently several once widespread breeding birds appear to be undergoing a continued decline such as Kestrel, Green Woodpecker and Yellow Hammer. It would be extremely helpful if more observers submitted records of species of conservation concern to assess their status in the county. More on this ‘ask’ from Russell Jones, our County Recorder in the following Submission of Records section.

Ringers operating in county continue to make an important contribution to the BTO’s ringing scheme and were responsible for ringing over half the Whimbrels and Dunlins ringed in Britain. The ringing report, provided by Mark Cutts highlights some of the valuable information this amazing effort provides including Dunlins and Sandwich Terns ringed at Ynyslas turning up in Morocco, Mauritania, Namibia and South Africa.

Ian Morris’ article on the Breeding Birds of Longwood highlights the importance and value of citizen science. Comparing the findings of his 2018 survey with a previous survey Ian provides us with an updated assessment of bird populations at this extensive woodland site. Whilst some species remain stable populations of other have changed considerably, often mirroring national trends.

The Ceredigion Bird Blog (www.ceredigion33.blogspot.com) continues to be a valuable and well supported means of communicating local bird news, and a special thanks to Harry Pepper for managing this site. The recently created Ceredigion Birds and Wildlife Facebook page, run by Shane Jones is going from strength to strength and provides another popular means of communicating about the county’s birds and nature.

Many people contribute to this Report and make it possible and I would like to thank the following who have not yet been mentioned: Our Advertiser ‘NatureQuest’ – Affordable optics and wildlife observation. The following photographers who have allowed us to use their excellent images including Tom Kistruck, Shane Jones, Viv Evans, Colin Dalton, Silke Einschuetz, Meurig Garbutt, Alan Ewart and Bob Relph (plus some of my own).

I hope you enjoy this report.

Arfon Williams, December 2019

Submission of records

The following contributed the 2018 records and where included in the systematic list are generally acknowledged by their initials. Without their efforts there would be no Report:

Tony Allenby, Abigail Amos, David Anning, Mike Bailey (MB), the late Roy Bamford, Mark Baptiste, Peter Barnes, Nigel Barratt, Janet Baxter, Bernie Beck, Paul Bennett, Chris Bird (CB), Nigel Bird, Rhodri Blakeway, Ian Boyle, Keith Burdett, Ian Burgess, David Campion, Steffi Carter, Arthur O Chater, Ray Collins, Lis Collison, Edward O’Connor (EOC), Moira Convery, Simon Cox, Tony Cross (AVC), Mark Cutts, Andrew Dally, Steve Davies, John A Davis (JAD), Peter E Davis, Naomi Davis, Phil Dennis, Aline Denton, Richard Dobbins, Tom Doidge, Jasmine Donahaye, Diana Dorrell, Silke Einschuetz, Philip Ellis, Dr Viv Evans, Kendall Evans, Lyn Evans, Tommy Evans. Gerald Fordham, Chris Forster-Brown, Wayne Foster, Lyn Gander, Chris Goding, John Gorman, Mick Green, Jon Green, Karen Gregory, Ian Harrison, Mike D Hayward, Helen Herbert, Alan Hill, Terry Hobson, Geraint Hughes, Marc Hughes, Jenni and Peter Hyatt, Elaine Izett, Andy James, Wendy James, Chris Jones, Pat and Gary Jones, Russell Jones, Shane Jones, Judith Johnston, Nigel Johnston, Kev Joynes, Len Kersley, Brian Kington, Tom Kistruck, Red Liford (RGL), Mervyn Lloyd, Lyndon Lomax, Alan Lyne, Paul Mahiques, André Marsh (AJM), Roger Matthews, Kevin McGee, Elliott Monteith, Jeremy Moore, Ian J Morris (IJM), Lisa Morris, André Morgan (AM), Brian O’Shea, John O’Sullivan, Carlton Parry, Ewan Parry, David Parsons, Barry Penney, Harry Pepper (ASP), Andy Polkey (AP), Angey Polkey, Matthew Potter, David Price, Liz Probert, Dave Purdon, Sue & Terry Reeves, Bob Relph (RR), Ian Scott, Pete Scott, Liz Snell (ES), Dick Squires (RS), David Taylor, Teifi Ringing Group (TRG), Rhys Thatcher, Dave Thomas, Ian Thompson, Jon Turner, John Valentine. Graham Walker, Mike Waller, Arfon Williams (HAW), Brian Wiley, Paul Wilkins, Colin Williams, Marc Williams, Richard Williams, Annette Williamson, Peter Wilmott, John Woodruff, David Wooley, Laurie Wright, Andy Young. Apologies to anyone whose name has inadvertently been left out.

Wildfowl counts (WeBS/Wetland Bird Survey) were carried out at the Dyfi estuary by RSPB staff and volunteers, at the Teifi estuary by Wendy James and at Cors Caron by Andy Polkey.

Some observers may be uncertain as to what records to submit to the County Recorder. Hopefully a look at this Bird Report will give some idea as to what is recorded in the archive, but here are some basic guidelines: • Scarce and rare migrants/visitors (see list below). • Breeding records of scarce and rare birds. • First arrival dates of summer migrants or winter visitors and departure dates. • Visible migration, cold weather movements. Counts of winter or passage wildfowl and waders. • Counts of seabirds or other colonial nesters e.g. Sand Martin. • Counts of finch and bunting flocks. If in doubt, please submit sightings to Russell Jones (County Recorder and Wetland Bird Survey Organiser) who also notes the contributions to the Ceredigion Bird Blog:

Russell Jones, Bron-y-gan, Talybont, Ceredigion. SY24 5ER. Email: [email protected]

Records of national rarities are considered by the British Birds Rarities Committee. (See their web site (www.bbrc.org.uk) for a list of species.)

There is a second tier of species which are scarce in Wales and records need to be assessed by the Welsh Rarities Panel. These scarce species are defined as those occurring on average five times or fewer annually in Wales and as of 1st January 2018 are as follows: Bean Goose, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Ferruginous Duck, Lesser Scaup, Surf Scoter, Smew, White-billed Diver, Cory’s Shearwater, Great Shearwater, Wilson’s Petrel, Night Heron, Cattle Egret, Purple Heron, White Stork, Glossy Ibis, Red-necked Grebe, Black Kite, White-tailed Eagle, Montagu’s Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard, Golden Eagle, Spotted Crake, Corncrake, Crane, Stone-curlew, American Golden Plover, Kentish Plover, Temminck’s Stint, White-rumped Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Red-necked Phalarope, White-winged Black Tern, Ring-billed Gull, Caspian Gull, Alpine Swift, Bee-eater, Red-footed Falcon, Golden Oriole, Red-backed Shrike, Woodchat Shrike, Penduline Tit, Bearded Tit* Shore Lark, Short-toed Lark, Red-rumped Swallow, Greenish Warbler, Pallas’s Warbler, Radde’s Warbler, Dusky Warbler, Barred Warbler, Icterine Warbler, Melodious Warbler, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Marsh Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Nightingale, Bluethroat, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Citrine Wagtail, Olive-backed Pipit, Common Rosefinch, Common Redpoll, Arctic Redpoll, Parrot Crossbill, Serin, Cirl Bunting, Ortolan Bunting, Little Bunting, Corn Bunting. Scarce races are considered on the same basis. e.g. Black Brant.

A description might also be requested from our Recorder for other species which are scarce in Ceredigion, or particularly difficult to identify, or a common species reported out of season. The BBRC, WRC and our County Recorder may not accept a record if insufficient information has been provided to substantiate a record. In such cases it is generally not a question of disbelief, but simply that the description may have been a bit scant.

The more records which are sent in to our County Recorder, Russell Jones, the more useful and comprehensive our annual Reports will become. Many send their records to Russell on a monthly basis via email (address above). Otherwise the plea is for Russell to receive all records as soon after the start of the following year as possible.

Barn Owl Colin Dalton 5

SYSTEMATIC LIST FOR 2018 A code letter prefixes each species, as follows: (A) all records are given. (B) a summary of records are given. (C) selected records are given, e.g. first arrival date, weather movements, census results etc. (D) recorded during the year but no significant change in status.

(B) BRANT GOOSE GWYDD DDU Branta bernicla Uncommon winter visitor to coasts and estuaries.

At Ynyslas there were up to seven pale-bellied birds from 6th to 13th January, three pale-bellied on 30th January, 11 from 4th to 18th February with four on 20th, six on 24th March, seven on 30th March and a late bird on 15th May. In autumn, there were two there on 17th October with up to five seen to the end of the year. Elsewhere, there was one at Tanybwlch on 20th January, and a pale-bellied bird on the Teifi est on 4th December.

(B) GREATER CANADA GOOSE GWYDD CANADA Branta canadensis Resident breeder throughout the county.

Dyfi estuary, Teifi estuary and Cors Caron WeBS counts were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 1121 705 692 1284 1294 1316 1025 Teifi est 480 9 12 228 460 385 C. Caron 179 122 293 28 53

Notable counts (non-WeBS) were 1300 Teifi est on 20th September.

(B) BARNACLE GOOSE GWYDD WYRAN Branta leucopsis Two feral populations based on the Dyfi (from the Derwent water breeding population) and Teifi estuaries.

On the Dyfi there were 515 on 5th January with 108 on 20th February, 92 in March and up to two which remained throughout the summer. 53 arrived back on 25th August with 217 by 11th September, 470 in October and 480 from November to the end of the year. On the Teifi there were 65 in January, 115 in February, 83 in August, 114 in September. 110 in November and 130 in December. No breeding counts from Cardigan Island were reported, though there were 88 there on 5th June.

(B) GREYLAG GOOSE GWYDD WYLLT Anser anser Recorded in small numbers throughout the year. Birds re-established in parts of Britain from 1930’s onwards, are well-established in the county, ranging widely at times. Some records may relate to birds from southwest England and south Wales pausing on their moult migration to and from the Glasgow area.

Recorded in every month of the year from numerous locations. Peak counts were 162 at Cors Caron in November, 129 in October and 128 in December.

(B) PINK-FOOTED GOOSE GWYDD TROEDBINC Anser brachyrhynchus Scarce winter visitor

There was a marked influx into and over the county in January with 40 over Ynyslas on 6th January, one at Cors Caron on 7th, 72 in over the sea heading east at Aberystwyth on 7th, 45 - 50 over Llyn Glandwgan on 7th, 38 feeding at Lodge Farm, RSPB Ynys-hir on 7th and a total of 25 (including 14 feeding near Glandwr) over Ynyslas/Ynys Tachwedd on 7th. There were still 13 near Glandwr on 8th and up to two there between 13th and 25th January. Elsewhere there were two at Teifi est on 14th April, four at Ynyslas on 23rd September with presumably the same four at RSPB Ynys-hir on 26th September, one at Ynys Tachwedd on 11th November and one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 26th November.

(B) GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE GWYDD DALCEN-WEN Anser albifrons Greenland race is a declining winter visitor to the Dyfi. Eurasian race is a rare winter visitor.

Greenland race: In the first-winter period there were 25 present until 6th March when 24 were counted. These were then seen up to April 11th with one remaining until 16th (the tagged birds white 01, V0J, V3J, V4J, V5J, V7J, V8J and V9J were in the flock. In the second winter period 11 arrived on 27th October (including the tagged birds WHIT01, V3J, V5J, V8J and V9J) with 13 present between 19th November and the end of the year. There were no juveniles in the flock. Eurasian race: There was one at Ynys Tachwedd from 14th to 25th January.

(B) MUTE SWAN ALARCH DOF Cygnus olor Resident breeder in small numbers. Some immigration.

The only breeding reported was of two pairs at RSPB Ynys-hir (one pair failed and the other pair reared seven young to fledging) and a pair at Aberystwyth which had one cygnet on 18th July. As usual, the highest counts were from Cors Caron with 24 on 19th February and up to 22 in the second winter period and the Teifi est with 35 there on 11th September.

(A) WHOOPER SWAN ALARCH Y GOGLEDD Cygnus cygnus Winter visitor in small numbers.

Only a few records in the first winter period: one at Cors Caron on 26th January with six there on 29th January and one on 5th, 9th and 19th February and eleven at RSPB Ynys-hir on 19th March. The first back were at Pond Yr Oerfa with two on 14th October with two at Ynyslas on 17th and 20th, ten at Cors Caron on 18th, two over Pandy, Furnace on 19th, two at Ynyslas on 20th, five flew over Teifi est on 22nd October with one flying north at Aberporth on 24th and eight flew over Teifi est, seven were at Ynyslas and two at Llanrhystud on 27th October with three at Llyn Syfydrin on 28th and three at Pencefn pool, Bontgoch on 31st. In November, there was one at Teifi est on 6th, ten at Cors Caron on 15th, and three at Llyn Syfydrin on 14th. In December there were two at Cors Caron on 10th and 12th with singles at Teifi est and Llanrhystud on 14th.

(B) COMMON SHELDUCK HWYADEN YR EITHIN Tadorna tadorna Breeds at the Dyfi and Teifi estuaries where winter visitors arrive in good numbers. Scarce inland.

In 2018 bred at Dyfi est., Cors Fochno and Teifi est.

Dyfi and Teifi WeBS counts were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 263 270 9 12 136 105 289 Teifi est 24 49 37 4 4

At Teifi est there were 62 on 26th February, the peak (non-WeBS) count with smaller numbers throughout most of the year. Away from the two main estuaries there were seven off Aberystwyth on 14th April and four at New Quay on 15th December.

(B) MANDARIN DUCK HWYADEN GRIBOG Aix galericulata Scarce visitor from introduced populations elsewhere.

The male from 2017 was seen on a few dates at Aberystwyth (mainly on the Rheidiol) from 30th January to 9th June.

(A) GARGANEY HWYADEN ADDFAIN Spatula querquedula Rare spring and autumn migrant.

One was reported by a visitor at Mallard pond, Teifi marshes on 13th March (Via WJ) and a male was at a pond near New Quay on 9th May (VE).

(B) NORTHERN SHOVELER HWYADEN LYDANBIG Spatula clypeata Mainly a winter visitor, has bred.

On the Dyfi reported in good numbers at RSPB Ynys-hir with up to 21 in the first winter period and 12 in the second winter period. Elsewhere on the Dyfi there was one at Leri/Ynyslas on 7th and 13th January, three at the pill-box (Leri) on 20th February, one at Ynyslas on 16th March, two at the Clettwr mouth and five at the pill-box on 25th October, three at the pill-box on 23rd November, two at the Clettwr and two at the pill-box on 10th December and three at Ynyslas on 14th December. Away from the Dyfi there one at Teifi est on 13th January, three there on 17th September, one at Cwm Rheidiol res on 19th November and two flying north at New Quay on 15th December.

(A) GADWALL HWYADEN LWYD Moreca strepera Scarce and irregular winter visitor.

There were four at Cors Caron on 18th March (AP), one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 30th October (RS), two at RSPB Ynys-hir on 3rd November (JW), one at Teifi est on 18th November (WJ), two at Ynyslas on 20th November (E O’C), and four at RSPB Ynys-hir from 23rd December to the end of the year (RJ, RS).

(B) EURASIAN WIGEON CHWIWELL Moreca penelope Numerous winter visitor to Dyfi and Teifi estuaries and Maesllyn pool. Small numbers at other inland and coastal sites.

Peak counts for selected localities, including Llansantffraid/Llanrhystud (Llans/Llanrh) were:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 3080 2968 264 84 1 2 68 1275 1975 2561 Teifi est 124 136 160 3 17 100 300 264 Cors Caron 232 103 84 32 181 125 Llans/Llanrh 4 3 7 1 2

Notable counts elsewhere were nine at Llyn Fanod on 19th,, twelve at Aberystwyth on 25th March and six at Nanteos pool on 19th November.

(B) MALLARD HWYADEN WYLLT Anas platyrhnchos Common resident and winter visitor

WeBS counts were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 117 97 31 31 73 126 122 125 Teifi est 38 52 28 108 44 32 89 C Caron 175 125 143 346 212 314

Counts elsewhere included 34 at Llyn Eiddwen on 7th January, 35 at Cors Caron on 5th September, 44 at Llanrhystud on 23rd September, 17 at Nanteos pool on 1st October, 61 at 9

Aberaeron on 6th October, 34 at Llyn Eiddwen on 25th November, 18 there on 9th December and 36 on 27th December.

(B) NORTHERN PINTAIL HWYADEN LOSTFAIN Anas acuta Winter visitor mainly to the Dyfi, scarce elsewhere.

On the Dyfi there were 292 on 5th January, 238 on 20th February, 209 on 25th October, 153 on 26th November and 219 on 10th December. Elsewhere the only records were from the Teifi est with one on 9th January, four on 13th January, two on 1st March and four on 4th March, two on 20th October and one on 21st October and 27th October.

(B) EURASIAN TEAL CORHWYADEN Anas crecca Common winter visitor with small numbers breeding at wetland sites.

Peak counts for selected localities were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 603 597 680 970 812 833 Teifi est 72 105 89 32 25 42 C Caron 346 393 367 518 554 625

Bred at RSPB Ynys-hir and Cors Fochno and a pair and three chicks was at Camddwr pool on 14th June (ES).

(A) COMMON POCHARD HWYADEN BENGOCH Aythya farina A rare winter visitor nowadays, now red-listed due to decreasing numbers throughout Europe.

There were no records in 2018.

(B) TUFTED DUCK HWYADEN GOPOG Aythya fuligula Small numbers at many inland pools throughout the year and a winter influx. Regular breeding species in recent years.

Bred at Pond Yr Oerfa with a female and a duckling on 4th July and at Cors Caron with a female and four ducklings on 25th July. Seen on numerous upland pools and lakes and occasionally on the two larger estuaries with peak counts of 16 at Llyn Nant Yr Arian on 4th April and 34 at Llyn Rhosrhydd on 18th November.

(A) GREATER SCAUP HWYADEN BENDDU Aythya murila Scarce winter visitor

There was a female on Llyn Eiddwen on 7th January (CB) which was joined by another on 11th and 12th January (CB, AJ). There was a female off Borth on 6th February (CB), two females neat the Leri pill-box on 4th March (SC), a female on Llyn Nant Yr Arian on 25th September (BW), a

10 female at Ynyslas on 19th October (E O’C) then up to four there between 22nd and 31st October (MO) and a male at Teifi est on 16th December (TE).

(A) KING EIDER HWYADEN FWYTHBLU FAWR Somateria spectabilis Extremely rare visitor.

The female found in June 2017 was seen at Ynyslas on many dates from 1st January to 7th March. It re-appeared there again on 15th May and was then seen further up the Dyfi at RSPB Ynys-hir on a few dates from 13th July to 30th August. It re-appeared again at Ynyslas on 24th September and was seen there on many dates to the end of the year.

(A) COMMON EIDER HWYADEN FWYTHBLU Somateria mollisima Scarce visitor off-shore.

There were 15 (ten males and five females) off Borth on 19th May (NF), one at Ynyslas on 4th October (E O’C), two immature males off Aberystwyth on 19th October (ASP), up to six off Ynyslas between 28th and 31st October (MO), one off Ynyslas on 26th November (ASP) and two off Llanina point on the same date (VE).

(B) COMMON SCOTER MOR-HWYADEN DDU Melanitta nigra Present off-shore in all months.

Seen off Borth/Ynyslas in most months with peak monthly counts of 70 in January, 285 in February, 60 in March, 178 in April, 60 in May and July, 85 in August, 70 in September, 197 in October, 340 in November and 180 in December. Regularly seen off Aberystwyth with peak counts there of 192 on 28th April and 34 on 13th July. Other notable counts included 52 at Mwnt on 21st September and 14 at Llanrhystud on 20th November.

(B) VELVER SCOTER MOR-HWYADEN Y GOGLEDD Melanitta fusca Scarce but regular winter visitor.

There was one off Borth on 5th March (JAD). In the second winter period there were three off Ynyslas from 20th November (ASP) to the end of the year with four there on 27th December (CB).

(A) LONG-TAILED DUCK HWYADEN GYNFFON-HIR Clangula hyemalis Scarce winter visitor

There was one at Ynyslas on 24th November (E O’C).

(B) COMMON GOLDENEYE HWYADEN LYGAD-AUR Bucephala clangula Winter visitor in small numbers.

Seen in winter on most large lakes and ponds and in both major estuaries. Up to four were seen on the Teifi est., up to six on the Dyfi est. and up to four were at Llyn Eiddwen and Llyn Fanod with smaller numbers scattered on other inland lakes.

(B) GOOSANDER HWYADEN DANHEDDOG Mergus merganser Resident.

Breeding records came from both the Ystwyth and Rheidiol rivers. Double figure counts were as follows: 19 at RSPB Ynys-hir on 13th August, 21 at Llyn Eiddwen on 25th November and 13 at Llyn Fanod on 9th December.

(B) RED-BREASTED MERGANSER HWYADEN FRONGOCH Mergus serrator Formerly resident in the Dyfi estuary area. Irregular elsewhere.

Seen in the Dyfi up to April and from August to the end of the year with peak counts of 13 in April and ten in March, August and September. Elsewhere, the only records were of two at Teifi est on 13th November and one at Llanrhystud on 20th November.

(A) WILLOW PTARMIGAN (RED GROUSE) GRUGIAR Lagopus lagopus Scarce in the uplands of the North and East.

There were two at Pumlumon on 15th December (BW).

(B) RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE PETRUSEN GOESGOCH Alectoris rufa An introduced species, scarce and local except where reared for shooting.

Seen regularly in the Tre’r ddol area following the release of over 50 for shooting. Elsewhere the only records were of three at Llyn Blaenmelindwr on 8th October and seven at Cwmystwyth on 29th October.

(A) COMMON QUAIL SOFLIAR Coturnix coturnix Scarce and irregular summer visitor.

The only record was of one at Llanrhystud on 20th November (IJM) which was seen again on 27th December (HAW).

(B) COMMON PHEASANT FFESANT Phasianus colchicus Resident with numbers hugely inflated following releases for shooting.

Widely recorded throughout the county. 12

(B) RED-THROATED LOON (DIVER) TROCHYDD GYDDFGOCH Gavia stellata Regular winter visitor and passage migrant.

Highest monthly counts from selected localities, including Llansantffraid to Aberaeron (Llans – A’aeron) were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec Borth/Ynyslas 13 11 21 8 12 23 40 8 Llant-A’aeron 1 79 3 1 3 Aberystwyth 2 1 4 1 1 3 2 New Quay 9 1 2

The only other count of note was of 16 off Wallog on 12th January.

(A) BLACK-THROATED LOON (DIVER) TROCHYDD GYDDFDDU Gavia arctica Rare winter visitor and passage migrant.

There was one at Teifi est. on 5th March (WJ), one at Ynyslas on 15th April (Via Birdguides) and one at Ynyslas on 16th December (E O’C).

(A) GREAT NORTHERN LOON (DIVER) TROCHYDD MAWR Gavia immer Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

There was one off Aberystwyth on 7th and 8th January (RJ, ASP) which was presumably the same bird seen off Wallog on 12th January (RJ). There was one at New Quay on 23rd January (E O’C) and again on 1st February (AJ). Later in the year there was one at Aberystwyth on 19th September (ASP), two off Ynyslas on 30th October (E O’C) and one on 31st (ASP), one at Aberystwyth on 17th November (ASP) and one at Ynyslas on 10th (CB) and 16th (E O’C) December.

(A) EUROPEAN STORM PETREL PEDRYN DRYCIN Hydrobates pelagicus Scarce summer/autumn migrant.

There was one at Mwnt on 13th July (WJ), one off New Quay on 21st September (CG) and one off Borth on the same day (RJ).

(A) LEACH’S STORM PETREL PEDRYN DRYCIN FFORCHOG Oceanodroma leucorhoa Scarce autumn migrant.

There was one off Borth on 19th September (E O’C) and six at Mwnt (HAW), one at Teifi est (RD) and one off Borth (RJ) on 21st September.

(B) NORTHERN FULMAR ADERYN DRYCH Y GRAIG Fulmarus glacialis Resident, breeds in small numbers.

Seen in small numbers throughout the year with small numbers breeding. There were few movements noted with 25 past Gwbert on 27th August the largest.

(B) MANX SHEARWATER ADERYN DRYCIN MANAW Puffinus puffinus Common spring to autumn visitor.

One off Gwbert on 31st March seems to be the first record of the year. There were rather poor numbers off Borth/Ynyslas this year with up to 2000 in July. Elsewhere there were 2000 off Mwnt on 28th July and 1400 off Aberystwyth on 26th June.

(B) LITTLE GREBE GWYACH FACH Tachybaptus ruficollis Breeds widely on lakes and ponds. Small groups in the estuaries in winter.

Breeding season records came from RSPB Ynys-hir, Denmark Farm, Gorsgoch pool, Llanerchaeron, Llyn Nant yr Arian, Nanteos pool and Camddwr pool. More widely reported in winter with records from Pant pool (max. four in December), RSPB Ynys-hir (max. six in December), Teifi est (max. six in September and December), Cors Caron, Llyn Eiddwen, Rheidiol Gravel Pits and a few smaller ponds and lakes in the county.

(B) GREAT CRESTED GREBE GWYACH FAWR GOPOG Podiceps cristatus An irregular breeder. Small numbers wintering off the coast and in estuaries.

The only breeding season from a suitable location was of two at Bray’s pool on 4th April.

Elsewhere reported from Borth/Ynyslas throughout the winter, though in much smaller numbers than usual, with a max. of only five in March and ten in October, off New Quay with singles in January and December and four on 11th March, off Aberystwyth with singles in January and February, at Llansantffraed with three on 22nd February and one in March, and at Teifi est with one in January, two in February four in March and singles in July and September.

(A) SLAVONIAN GREBE GWYACH GORNIOG Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor

One was on the Dyfi at RSPB Ynys-hir on 9th November (RJ, RS).

(A) WHITE STORK CICONIA GWYN Ciconia Ciconia Rare migrant

One was seen and photographed flying over Nant Yr Arian on 19th April (Alan Ewart).

(A) WESTERN CATTLE EGRET CREYR Y GWARTHEG Bulbulcus ibis Rare migrant

There was one at Ynys Tachwedd on 1st January (SC) which was seen there again on most dates to 10th January, one was at Aberleri/Ynyslas on 16th September (E O’C) seen again on 25th September with two on 26th September and one on 3rd October. At Teifi est one was seen on many dates from 7th November (WJ) to the end of the year.

(B) GREY HERON CREYR GLAS Ardea cinerea Resident.

Reported widely throughout the county, apart from the uplands.

(B) GREAT EGRET CREYR MAWR GWYN Ardea alba Scarce, but increasing, vagrant

Another increase in records again this year; so much so that only a summary of records is possible. On the Dyfi seen mainly at RSPB Ynys-hir with singles on many dates in January, February, March and August. Elsewhere on the Dyfi there were singles at Glandyfi and Ynyslas in January and at Ynyslas and the Leri in October. There was one at Cors Caron/Maesllyn in January, February, March and October; one at Teifi est on 4th February; four seen flying south at Llansantffraed and later at Aberaeron on 21st October and one on the Tywi at Lampeter in November and December.

(B) LITTLE EGRET CREYR BACH Egretta garzetta Resident though no longer breeds in the county.

Seen daily on the Dyfi with a peak count of 24 in October. Also seen in good numbers on the Teifi est with ten in November and 11 in December, at Cors Caron with six in February and near Lampeter with five in December. Away from these locations seen at Pant pool (up to four), Henllan, Newcastle Emlyn and Llanrhystud.

(B) NORTHERN GANNET HUGAN Morus bassanus Off-shore all year, though only a few winter records.

One off Gwbert and another off Aberporth on 1st January were unusual records with no further records until one off Aberaeron on 3rd March with many records after this date. High counts included 100 off Borth on 23rd, 180 off Gwbert on 27th August with 189 there on 19th September, 144 past the mouth of the Teifi on 21st September, 167 off Aberystwyth on 22nd October and 100 off New Quay on 5th October. One off Aberystwyth on 1st December was the last record of the year.

(B) EUROPEAN SHAG MULFRAN WERDD Phalacrocorax aristotelis Resident with scattered small colonies along the coast.

No breeding counts were received. Very few high counts this year with 22 at Ynyslas on 11th January and 20 at Gwbert on 22nd September the largest counts.

(B) GREAT CORMORANT MULFRAN Phalacrocorax carbo Present all year. Several breeding colonies along coast.

No counts from breeding colonies were received. The highest count was of 126 on the Dyfi at high-tide on 11th September. The roost at the Domen las hide at RSPB Ynys-hir held up to 38 birds. A notable inland count was of five at Llyn Fanod on 19th January.

(B) WESTERN OSPREY GWALCH Y PYSGOD Pandion haliaetus Regular spring and summer visitor with numerous sightings on the Dyfi.

On the Dyfi recorded between 22nd March and 12th September with numerous sightings of the breeding pair at the Dyfi Osprey Project and other ospreys inspecting the area. Elsewhere, there was one flying north at Aberystwyth on 3rd April, one over the Teifi est on 22nd April, one over Pumlumon on 6th May, one at Cors Caron on 19th May, one at Pant Pool on 30th May and one at Cors Caron on 3rd June.

(B) EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK GWALCH GLAS Accipiter nisus Breeding resident

Reported widely in suitable habitat throughout the year.

(B) NORTHERN GOSHAWK GWALCH MARTH Accipiter gentilis Scarce breeding resident.

There were a few sightings, mainly in the north of the county with breeding suspected at a few sites though no confirmed breeding records were reported.

(B) WESTERN MARSH HARRIER BOD Y GWERNI Circus aeruginosus Scarce but annual migrant recorded in all months.

There was one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 10th January, a female at Glandwr on 7th May, one at Cors Fochno on 20th July, one at Cors Caron on 17th August, one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 3rd and 20th August and on 15th September, two at Aberleri on 26th September then one on many dates in the Dyfi area between 5th October and 11th November.

(B) HEN HARRIER BOD TINWEN Circus cyaneus Regular winter visitor, primarily to Cors Caron and the Dyfi area.

At Cors Caron there were up to four in the first winter period to 31st March and up to two reported in the second winter period from 3rd October. In the Dyfi area up to four (a male and three ringtails) were seen up to 1st April and up to four (adult male, sub-adult male and two ringtails) from 28th September to the end of the year. Elsewhere there was one at Pumlumon on 25th March, a ringtail at Llyn Eiddwen on 28th October, a ringtail at Mwnt on 31st October and a male at Llangwyrfon on 11th November.

(B) RED KITE BARCUD Milvus milvus Common and widespread resident

Widely reported with up to 250 reported from the regular feeding stations. Breeding numbers remain good with a steadily increasing population.

(B) COMMON BUZZARD BWNCATH Buteo buteo Common and widespread resident.

Seen widely throughout the county.

(B) WATER RAIL RHEGEN Y DWR Rallus aquaticus Scarce breeding resident with some influxes in cold weather

There were no breeding season records, the so called ‘Beast from the East’ in late February/early March possibly responsible with records at RSPB Ynys-hir prior to that period but then not recorded there until December. Also recorded at Cors Caron in mid-February but not thereafter. At Teifi marshes (mostly in Pembs) recorded up to 11th April and from 9th September. The only record away from these sites was one at Glanyrafon, nr Aberystwyth on 24th December.

(B) COMMON MOORHEN IAR DDWR Gallinulus chloropus Widespread breeding resident.

Bred at RSPB Ynys-hir (an estimated six pairs), at Vicarage Pool, Llanilar, Maesllyn Pool, Llanerchaeron, near Hennllan, Llyn Nant Yr Arian, Nanteos and at Trefenter Pond though presumably bred at a number of other locations. There were 16 at Nanteos pool in December, a good count for this locality.

(B) EURASIAN COOT CWTIAR Fulica atra Scarce breeding resident.

Bred at Pant pool with an adult and two juveniles there in August.

Still very scarce with one at Teifi est in January with two in August and September and one in October. There was one at Nanteos pool in January, three at Rheidiol Gravel Pits in February, two at RSPB Ynys-hir in May and two at Cors Caron in September.

(B) EURASIAN OYSTERCATCHER PIODEN Y MOR Haematopus ostralegus Breeding resident and numerous winter visitor.

Bred at New Quay, near the Leri and at RSPB Ynys-hir (four pairs), though there were presumably other scattered pairs breeding along the coast.

Dyfi and Teifi WeBS or peak counts and peak counts from Llanrhystud/Llansantffraed (Llanrh/Llans)and Aberystwyth/Tanybwlch (Aber/Tan) were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 583 557 102 631 1000 756 538 691 Teifi est 72 35 34 40 31 32 229 110 36 75 33 2 Llanrh/Llans 30 6 5 3 45 15 Aber/Tan 64 26

The leucistic bird seen for a number of years now was reported from Aberaeron on 14th December.

(A) PIED AVOCET CAMBIG Recurvirostra avosetta Scarce passage migrant.

There were two at Ynyslas on 15th May (JM).

(B) NORTHERN LAPWING CORNCHWIGLEN Vanellus vanellus Scarce and declining breeder. Good wintering numbers at a number of localities.

Breeding season records came from RSPB Ynys-hir where 40 pairs reared 53 young to fledging (productivity of 1.39 young reared per pair) and from Cors Caron with a pair and two small chicks on 29th May.

Peak counts Dyfi and Teifi estuaries were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Oct Nov Dec Dyfi 1248 566 120 113 1802 1600 Teifi est 800 140 25 50 1150

Other notable counts were 380 at Cors Caron in December, 250 at Llanon and at Llanddewi Brefi in February, 105 at Tanybwlch in March and 700 at Synod Inn in December.

(B) EUROPEAN GOLDEN PLOVER CWTIAD AUR Pluvialis apricaria Small numbers may still breed in the uplands of the north-east. Common passage migrant and winter visitor.

No breeding records were received. On the Dyfi seen up to 25th April and from 28th August to the end of the year with peak counts of 1450 in January and 784 in November. Other large flocks included 600 at Brynhoffnant and at Ferwig in February, 350 at Llanon in October, 2000 at Synod Inn and 500 at Croeslan in December.

(B) GREY PLOVER CWTIAD LLWYD Pluvialis squatarola Passage migrant and winter visitor, mainly to the Dyfi and Teifi estuaries and Llanrhystud/Llansantffraed.

Much lower numbers on the Dyfi this year than last year with a peak of only 15 in the first winter period and 11 in the second winter period and a very small passage in May peaking with only three on 1st May. Elsewhere, there were eight at Llansantffraed on 7th January with singles reported in February, April, May and June, up to nine at Teifi est in March and up to three in November.

(B) COMMON RINGED PLOVER CWTIAD TORCHOG Charadrius hiaticula A few pairs breed on beaches in the north of the county. Numerous spring and autumn passage migrant. Small parties dispersed along the coast in winter. Scarce inland.

Present during the breeding season at both Borth and Ynyslas with displaying pairs at both sites but no confirmed breeding records were received and a pair were present at Tanybwlch in July. Small numbers were present at Borth/Ynyslas in winter and there was a small spring passage there with 40 on 16th April and up to 68 in May. There were higher numbers on autumn passage with peak counts of 270 in August and 249 in September. At the Teifi est. small numbers also in both winter periods with up to 80 in May and 116 in August. Elsewhere, regularly recorded in winter at Aberystwyth with up to 11 in both winter periods and a peak count of 14 on autumn passage in September and at Llanrhystud and Aberaeron with up to four in both winter periods with a good passage noted at the former with peak counts of 28 in May, 33 in August, 47 in September and ten in October.

(A) LITTLE RINGED PLOVER CWTIAD TORCHOG LLEIAF Charadrius dubius Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor, occasionally breeds.

There were fewer records this year with one at both Teifi est and at RSPB Ynys-hir on 18th April (WJ, RJ), two at RSPB Ynys-hir on 4th and 30th July (RJ) and five at Morfa farm, Llanrhystud on 4th October (R Moore).

(A) KENTISH PLOVER CWTIAD CAINT Charadrius alexandrinus Rare passage migrant.

A female trapped and ringed at Ynyslas on 17th April was present there the following morning (EC, RJ).

(A) EURASIAN DOTTEREL HUTAN Y MYNYDD Charadrius morinellus Scarce but regular passage migrant, mainly in spring and mainly on Pumlumon.

There were two near the summit at Pumlumon on 5th May (E Parry, HAW).

(B) WHIMBREL COEGYLFINIR Numenius phaeopus Regular spring and autumn passage migrant, mainly along the coast.

The first migrants were seen at Ynyslas on 16th April. Another widespread and heavy coastal passage this year with 57 at Ynyslas and 45 at Teifi est. on 18th April, 61 at Ynyslas on 1st May and 49 at Teifi est on 3rd May. Elsewhere, there were up to 11 at Llanrhystud in April and up to six in May. One at Teifi est on 8th June was the last record on spring passage with autumn passage noted between 12th July and 19th October with a late bird at Ynyslas on 21st November. As usual, autumn passage was smaller with a peak autumn count of 14 at Gwbert on 27th August.

(B) EURASIAN CURLEW GYLFINIR Numenius arquata Scarce and declining breeding resident. Numerous visitor to the major estuaries and coastal locations between July and April.

The only records of birds in suitable breeding habitat came from Cors Caron.

Peak counts Dyfi, Teifi, Llanrhystud and Tanybwlch/Aberystwyth were as follows:

Jan Feb Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi 656 688 758 930 539 749 734 Teifi est 62 32 120 54 56 33 120 Llanrhystud 110 52 50 55 40 Tanybwlch 23 8 2

Other notable counts were 40 at Aberaeron on 21st October with 36 there on 14th December.

(B) BAR-TAILED GODWIT RHOSTOF GYNFFONFRAITH Limosa lapponica Regular spring and autumn passage migrant in varying numbers with small numbers wintering.

Small numbers present in the first winter period on the Dyfi estuary with 20 on 5th January, 26 on 20th February and ten on 4th March the peak monthly counts with 27 on Teifi est on 4th March the peak count there.

There was a small spring passage with three at Llanrhystud on 3rd April, up to five on the Dyfi in April and May and up to four on Teifi est. Autumn passage was noted from 4th July with peak counts of 19 at RSPB Ynys-hir on 12th September and 15 at Teifi est on 23rd September with up to 14on the Dyfi in November and December and singles at Teifi est on a few dates in December.

(B) BLACK-TAILED GODWIT RHOSTOG GYNFFONDDU Limosa limosa Scarce but regular spring and autumn passage migrant with small numbers over-wintering.

Scarce in the first winter period with up to four at Teifi est in March and one at RSPB Ynys-hir in March. There was a small spring passage with up to 16 on Teifi est in April and singles on the Dyfi in April and May. Autumn passage (or perhaps a late spring passage bird) was noted from 8th June with good numbers on the Teifi with eight in July and 34 in September with smaller numbers on the Dyfi peaking at 14 in September. Small numbers were present in the second winter period with up to 12 on the Dyfi and up to two on Teifi est. at a few localities in the second winter period. There were no records elsewhere.

(B) RUDDY TURNSTONE CWTIAD Y TRAETH Arenaria interpres Small numbers winter, mainly at Aberystwyth and Llanrhystud with small numbers elsewhere on passage.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 2 1 1 1 1 1 3 Teifi est 3 2 4 1 3 7 1 Llanrh/Llansan 6 17 4 5 3 17 37 3 Aber/Tany 37 35 25 4 1 17 2 8 40

The only other records were of one at Aberaeron on 21st July and one at Mwnt on 21st September.

(B) RED KNOT PIBYDD YR ABER Calidris canutus Passage migrant and winter visitor, mainly to the Dyfi and Teifi estuaries. Rare inland.

Small numbers wintered on the Dyfi in both winter periods with 32 at the Leri on 20th February and 11 there in November. Also seen on the Teifi in winter with two in January, singles in February, up to 18 in March and one in November. Small numbers seen on the Dyfi and Teifi estuaries on both spring passage and autumn passage with peak counts of 27 on the Dyfi on 11th September and nine at Teifi est in September.

(A) RUFF PIBYDD TORCHOG Calidris pugnax Scarce passage migrant and occasional winter visitor.

There was one at Ynys Tachwedd (Dyfi) on 26th January (CG), four at RSPB Ynys-hir on 4th July (RJ), a juvenile on Teifi est on 24th August (RD, WJ), four at RSPB Ynys-hir on 11th September (RJ) and one at the Leri on 29th September (S Jones).

(A) CURLEW SANDPIPER PIBYDD CAMBIG Calidris ferriginea Scarce spring and autumn passage migrant.

It was a poor year with one at Ynyslas on 30th and 31st May (CB, ASP). Rather scarce in autumn too with one at Ynyslas on 17th August (CB), one at Ynyslas on 11th September (RJ) and one at Ynyslas on 21st September (E O’C).

(B) SANDERLING PIBYDD Y TYWOD Calidris alba Winter visitor and passage migrant, occasionally in good numbers on spring passage.

Peak counts Dyfi, Teifi, Llanrhystud and Tanybwlch/Aberystwyth were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 19 40 22 17 14 3 8 14 2 17 20 Teifi est 1 1 2 1 75 5 1 39 3 Llanrh/Llansan 10 1 Aber/Tany 10 1

The only other record was of four at Mwnt on 21st September.

(B) DUNLIN PIBYDD Y MAWN Calidris alpina Scarce breeding resident, common passage and winter visitor.

Peak counts Dyfi, Teifi, Llanrhystud/Llansantffraid (Llanrh/Llans) and Aberystwyth/Tanybwlch (Aber/Tan) were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 238 380 420 270 270 120 24 882 631 216 413 319 Teifi est 60 55 300 20 330 80 7 140 160 8 47 35 Llanrh/Llans 20 29 5 27 2 1 Aber/Tan 1 10 3

Elsewhere the only record was from Mwnt with 23 on 21st September.

(B) PURPLE SANDPIPER PIBYDD DU Calidris maritime Regular winter visitor mainly to Aberystwyth with a few recorded elsewhere in most years.

Seen at Aberystwyth from January 1st to 5th May and from 23rd October to the end of the year with peak monthly counts of ten in January, nine in February, six in March, six in April, two in May, one in October, five in November and eight in December.

Elsewhere, on the Teifi est (mainly near Gwbert) there were two in January, four in February, three in March and one in April and there was one at New Quay on 2nd and 3rd April and one at Llanrhystud on 11th November.

(B) LITTLE STINT PIBYDD BACH Calidris minuta Scarce on spring passage, regular in varying numbers on autumn passage.

One at Ynyslas on 17th May was the only record of the year (RJ, ASP).

(B) EURASIAN WOODCOCK CYFFYLOG Scolopax rusticola Small numbers widespread in winter with fresh arrivals with hard weather.

Seen in small numbers at many localities in both winter periods. The most unusual record was of one in Chalybeate street, Aberystwyth on 9th March

(B) JACK SNIPE GIACH BACH Lymnocryptes minimus Winter visitor and passage migrant.

Small numbers were seen in many suitable localities in both winter periods with up to six flushed during rush-cutting at RSPB Ynys-hir in late September and October and good numbers present at Ynys Tachwedd fields in November and December.

(B) COMMON SNIPE GIACH Gallinago gallinago Breeds at suitable wet places at all altitudes, scarce and very local in the south-west. Numerous on passage and in winter, especially with the onset of hard weather.

Present in the breeding season at RSPB Ynys-hir, Cors Fochno, Cors Caron, Nant Y Moch and at Camddwr pool. Presumably small numbers bred at other suitable locations in the uplands. Good numbers were present at Cors Caron with up to 90 in both winter periods and there were up to 100 in a field nr Llangwyryfon in November.

(A) RED (GREY) PHALAROPE LLYDANDROED LWYD Phalaropus fulicarius Scarce autumn and winter migrant, usually seen following strong westerly winds.

There was one at RSPB Ynys-hir from 21st September to 23rd September (RJ et al), one at South beach, Aberystwyth (JAD) and two at Llanrhystud on 22nd September (ASP), one at Llanrhystud on 23rd September (IH) and one flying north off Ynyslas on 2nd October (E O’C). 23

(A) RED-NECKED PHALAROPE LLYDANDROED GYDDFGOCH Phalaropus lobatus Very rare spring and autumn migrant.

There was one at RSPB Ynys-hir from 24th to 29th September (CF-B et al). This was only the fifth record for the county with the last record in 2002.

(B) COMMON SANDPIPER PIBYDD Y DORLAN Actitis hypoleucos Scarce and declining breeder, common passage migrant and rare winter visitor.

Breeding season records came from Llyn Eiddwen, Llyn Hir and from RSPB Ynys-hir. Wintering birds were at both the Teifi and Dyfi estuary in both winter periods with two at Teifi est on 18th November. The first probable migrants of the year were at Teifi est and at RSPB Ynys-hir on 16th April with small numbers present at a number of sites through to mid-May. Autumn passage was noted from the end of June through to 19th October with peak counts of 15 at Aberystwyth on 30th June with 11 there on 2nd July, 19 at Llanrhystud on 10th July and 15 at Teifi est on 18th July.

(B) GREEN SANDPIPER PIBYDD GWYRDD Tringa ochropus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

In both winter periods two were on the Dyfi, mainly at Glandyfi or RSPB Ynys-hir with three at Cors Caron in February. Spring passage was almost non-existent with one over a garden at Aberaeron on 29th April the only record. It was also rather a poor passage later in the year following one at Cors Caron on 29th June with two at both Cors Caron and RSPB Ynys-hir in July and August and singles at Teifi est and Glandwr with the last passage bird probably at Teifi est on 20th October.

(B) COMMON REDSHANK PIBYDD COESGOCH Tringa tetanus Breeds at Cors Caron and the Dyfi with reduced numbers on passage and in winter.

At RSPB Ynys-hir 28 pairs bred (34 pairs in 2017). Present at Cors Caron in April and May so presumably bred there and also presumably bred at Aberleri, Glandwr and elsewhere on the edge of Cors Fochno.

Peak counts Dyfi, Teifi and Llanrhystud/Llansantffraed (Llanrh/Llans) were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dyfi est 303 220 98 95 62 56 93 112 148 322 320 199 Teifi est 60 53 50 1 4 7 4 42 60 56 Llanrh/Llans 2 1 2 1

Also seen at Aberystwyth with three in February, two in March, five in July and three in December and at Aberaeron with four in July and two in November. 24

(A) WOOD SANDPIPER PIBYDD Y GRAEAN Tringa glareola Scarce spring and autumn passage migrant.

There was one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 4th July (RJ, TK, ASP).

(B) SPOTTED REDSHANK PIBYDD COESGOCH MANNOG Tringa erythropus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant

The over-wintering bird was seen on the Dyfi on a number of dates to 1st April and again from 24th October to the end of the year. There were no other records.

(B) COMMON GREENSHANK PIBYDD COESWERDD Tringa nebularia Regular spring and autumn passage migrant with a few occasionally over-wintering on the larger estuaries.

In the first winter period up to three were on the Dyfi (mainly along the Leri) with one at Teifi est to 20th March. There were no spring passage records. On return passage seen from 28th June with two at Ynyslas to 25th September with peaks of five at Glandwr on 11th September, three at Teifi est on 25th August and single birds at Llansantffraed in August and September. Inland, there were two at Cors Caron on 30th July and one there on 5th September. In the second winter period singles were at Teifi est in October and November with two at Ynyslas/Leri in October and November and one in December.

(B) BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE GWYLAN GOESDDU Rissa tridactyla Breeding colonies between New Quay and Llangrannog. Common off-shore in the breeding season, scarce in winter.

Bred at New Quay though no counts were made and breeding success was unknown. Scarce off-shore in winter with a few records especially after strong westerly winds though there were no large counts in this period. Few large counts were made this year with 360 past Gwbert on 27th August, 150 past Mwnt on 28th July and 153 there on 21st September the highest counts of the year.

(B) BLACK-HEADED GULL GWYLAN BENDDU Chrochocephalus ridibundus Scarce and declining breeder. Good numbers present from July and in both winter periods.

The only breeding colonies reported were at Gorsgoch with 80 there in late April, 25 at Llyn Eiddwen in May and present at Cors Caron from April to June. High counts included 600 at Llanrhystud in January, 1200 at Teifi est in October and 740 at Llanon in October.

(A) LITTLE GULL GWYLAN FECHAN Hydrocoloeus. minutus Annual visitor, seen mainly at coast. A few inland records. Recorded in all months but rare in June or July.

There was an adult at Clarach on 18th January (JAD), one at Teifi est on 5th March (WJ), one there on 3rd April (J Williams) and an adult at New Quay on 15th December (HAW).

(B) MEDITERRANEAN GULL GWYLAN MÔR Y CANOLDIR Ichthyaetus. melanocephalus Regular visitor and passage migrant in increasing numbers. Recorded in all months.

Seen widely along the coast throughout the year. The usual late-summer build-up of numbers started with 16 at Llanrhystud on 5th July with peak monthly counts at Llanon/Llanrhystud/Llansantffraed of 650 on 21st July, 720 in August but just 40 by 9th September. At Aberystwyth peak counts were of 84 in July, 39 in August, and 44 in both September and October. At Aberaeron there were 58 on 21st October.

(B) MEW (COMMON) GULL GWYLAN Y GWEUNYDD Larus canus Winter visitor and passage migrant. Recorded all months although few records in June and July.

Presumably hugely under-reported with the largest flock on the blog or reported to me being only 58 at Aberaeron in October and the largest flock on Birdtrack being 55 at Glanyrafon in December.

(A) RING-BILLED GULL GWYLAN FODRWYBIG Larus delawarensis Rare visitor.

An adult was reported from Tre’r Ddol on 18th and 19th January (Rob Knipe).

(C) GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL GWYLAN GEFNDDU FWYAF L. marinus Small breeding colony Cardigan Island and scattered pairs along the coast. Small numbers present all year on coast and a few irregularly inland.

No breeding counts were carried out. Notable counts came from Ynyslas with 31 in December and Teifi est with 18 in December.

(A) GLAUCOUS GULL GWYLAN Y GOGLEDD Larus hyperboreus Rare winter visitor

There was a 2CY at Aberystwyth on 18th January (AOC), an adult at Llanrhystud from 20th to 22nd January (HAW et al), a juv. at Teifi est on 25th January (RD), a first-year at Borth on 26th and 28th January (JT et al) with one at Aberystwyth on the same day, an imm. at Aberystwyth on 7th and 9th February (A Dent et al), a first-winter at Llanrhystud on 13th and 14th February

(HAW), one at Teifi est. on 1st April with two there on 3rd April (JW) with an imm. on 6th and 7th April (HAW), a 3CY at Ynyslas on 18th April (RJ) with presumably the same bird there on 2nd May (E O’C).

(B) ICELAND GULL GWYLAN YR ARCTIG Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor with influxes in some years.

First-years/juveniles were reported from Teifi est on nine dates between 18th January and 16th March with two there on 22nd March (a second year and a third year) and a second year from 1st to 8th April RD, WJ et al.). There was one at New Quay on 26th April (Via Birdtrack).

The largest counts came from Teifi est with 550 in March and 780 in December. Elsewhere, there were 466 at Aberystwyth in October.

(A) YELLOW-LEGGED GULL GWYLAN GOESFELEN Larus michahellis Scarce visitor

There was an adult at Teifi est on 24th January (RD et al), one there on 22nd February, and a second-winter there on 6th and 7th April (HAW).

(B) LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL GWYLAN GEFNDDU LEIAF Larus fuscus Breeds on Cardigan Island and a few pairs along the coast. Noticeable spring passage.

There were 404 heading south off Ynyslas on 21st September with 152 at Borth the next day. There were reasonable numbers at Teifi est too with 220 in March. Inland there was a good count of 92 roosting at Llyn Eiddwen on 11th October.

(B) SANDWICH TERN MORWENNOL BIGDDU Thalasseus sandvicensis Common spring and autumn passage migrant with good numbers on the Dyfi in autumn in most years.

One at Aberystwyth on 21st March was the first record of the year. There was a good spring passage with birds recorded from Teifi est., Llansantffraed, Llanrhystud, Aberystwyth, Borth, Ynyslas and RSPB Ynys-hir with peak counts of 68 at Ynyslas on 30th April and 100 there on 1st May. Mid-summer records included five at Aberystwyth on 9th and 29th June. Autumn passage probably began with 19 at Ynyslas on 14th July with monthly peaks here of 200 on 28th July, 168 on 13th August and 13 on 16th September. Elsewhere good counts included nine at Gwbert on 27th August, 26 at Teifi est on 3rd September and 135 past Mwnt on 21st September. Also recorded in autumn at Aberystwyth, New Quay, Llansantffraed, Llanrhystud and RSPB Ynys-hir. Two at Ynyslas on 30th September was the last record of the year. 27

Adult Glaucous Gull Shane Jones

White Stock with Red Kites Alan Ewart 28

Dotterel Arfon Williams

Wood Sandpiper Tom Kistruck 29

Hoopoe Viv Evans 30

Rosy Starling Silke Einschuetz

Lapland Bunting Meurig Garbutt 31

(A) LITTLE TERN MORWENNOL FYCHAN Sternula albifrons Scarce spring and autumn passage migrant.

In spring, a single at Llanrhystud on 27th April (HAW) and two at Ynyslas on 8th June (E0’C). In autumn the only record was of two at Ynyslas on 12th August (ES).

(A) COMMON TERN MORWENNOL GYFFREDIN Sterna hirundo Spring and autumn passage migrant

The only records in spring was of three at Ynyslas on 3rd April and four there on 25th April. Rather scarce in autumn too with one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 30th July, three at Aberaeron on 23rd August, three at Gwbert on 27th August, two at Teifi est on 3rd September, one at Ynyslas on 19th September, singles at Mwnt and Ynyslas on 21st September and three at Teifi est on 12th October.

‘Commic’ terns: There were 120 at Ynyslas on 2nd May and 13 past Mwnt on 21st September.

(A) ARCTIC TERN MORWENNOL Y GOGLEDD Sterna paradisarea Spring and autumn passage migrant.

Also rather scarce this year with one at Ynyslas on 30th April the only spring record. In autumn, there were two at Llanon on 4th August, one at Ynyslas on 12th August, one at Teifi est on 20th September, seven there on 21st September with two at Mwnt on the same day.

(A) BLACK TERN CORSWENNOL DDU Chlidonias niger Scarce spring and autumn passage migrant

One at Ynyslas on 27th August was the only record of the year (Via Birdguides).

(A) GREAT SKUA SGIWEN FAWR Stercorarius. skua Annual visitor offshore and in estuaries. Seen in all months.

One at Ynyslas on 2nd May (E O’C) was the only spring record. In autumn, passage was rather poor with two passed Mwnt on 28th July (WJ), one at Gwbert on 27th August (RD), 14 at Mwnt (HAW) and two passed Teifi est (RD) on 21st September, one passed Gwbert on 22nd September (WJ), one at New Quay on 5th October (VE), one at Ynyslas on 9th October (E O’C) and one at Ynyslas on 29th November (E O’C).

(A) POMARINE SKUA SGIWEN FRECH Stercorarius pomarinus A scarce passage migrant to coastal area, commoner in autumn, very rare in winter.

One passed Gwbert on 21st September (RD) and another on 22nd September (WJ) were the only records.

(A) PARASITIC JAEGER (ARCTIC SKUA) SGIWEN Y GOGLEDD S. parasiticus A few annually offshore during autumn passage, July-October. Rarely seen in November and December and occasionally in spring.

In spring there was one past Aberystwyth on 16th April (CB) and one passed Ynyslas on 2nd May (E O’C). In autumn, there were two passed Mwnt (GR) and possibly the same two past Gwbert ((RD) on 27th August, one passed Aberystwyth on 19th September (CB), three passed Gwbert (RD) and nine passed Mwnt (GR, HAW) on 21st September, five passed Gwbert on 22nd September (WJ) and two passed New Quay on 5th October (VE).

(A) LONG-TAILED SKUA SGIWEN GYNFFON-HIR Stercorarius longicaudus Rare spring and autumn passage migrant.

A juvenile past Mwnt on 21st September (HAW) was the only record.

(B) COMMON MURRE (GUILLEMOT) GWYLOG Uria aalge Several breeding colonies between New Quay and Cardigan. Seen off-shore in all seasons.

No breeding counts were carried out. There was a mixed guillemot/razorbill flock of 433 off Ynyslas on 1st October with 2500 there on 30th October.

(B) RAZORBILL LLURS Alca tords Several small breeding colonies between New Quay and Cardigan island. Seen off-shore at all seasons with occasionally high numbers at Borth bay in late autumn.

No counts of breeding colonies were carried out. Seen widely off-shore throughout the year with no large counts noted.

(A) BLACK GUILLEMOT GWYLOG DDU Cepphus grille Rare visitor to coastal areas.

There was one off Aberystwyth on 28th April and 4th May (ASP).

(A) ATLANTIC PUFFIN PAL Fratercula arctica Scarce visitor to coastal areas

One was seen at Cardigan Island on 1st June.

(D) ROCK/FERAL PIGEON COLOMEN Y GRAIG Columba livia Resident along coastal cliffs and towns. 33

(B) STOCK DOVE COLOMEN WYLLT C. oenas Much reduced as a breeding resident in recent years, now localised.

Either under-reported or the decline is continuing with records from only nine locations. Breeding season records came from RSPB Ynys-hir, Coed Y Foel, Cwm Tydu and Clarach bay. There were good numbers in a field left fallow at Ynys Tachwedd with 45 there in November and 49 in December (E O’C).

The only large flocks recorded were of 450 at Pant pool in August and 341 passing Ynyslas on 16th November. Widely seen throughout the county.

(C) COLLARED DOVE TURTUR DORCHOG Streptopelia decaocto Fairly widely distributed resident in towns and villages and at farmsteads.

Widely reported from towns and villages in the county but there were no large flocks noted.

One at Clarach on 15th April was the first record of the year, no records after the end of June. Records came from 15 sites, another decrease in locations (20 sites in 2007, 33 in 2016, 49 in 2015, 30 in 2014, 25 in 2013, 29 in 2012, 22 in 2011 and 25 in 2010). The north of the county seems to have good numbers still with many records from Cors Fochno, RSPB Ynys-hir, Foel Fawr, Cwm Eimion and the Llyfnant valley.

Reported from only a few sites with only a few breeding season records. Widely under reported.

(A) LITTLE OWL TYLLUAN FACH Athene noctua Scarce resident

A pair was again present in farm buildings in the north of the county. One was also seen in a garden at Bow St on 24th May (T Clark).

(A) SHORT-EARED OWL TYLLUAN GLUSTIOG Asio flammeus Scarce annual passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred occasionally in the past.

A poor year with only eight records: one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 2nd January, one at Cors Caron on 4th March (SE), one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 23rd March (RJ), one near Devil’s bridge on 29th September (S Davies), singles at Glandyfi on 8th, 9th and 10th December (RR, RS) and one at Gilfach on 30th December (G Garner).

(B) EUROPEAN NIGHTJAR TROELLWR MAWR (NYDDWR) Caprimulgus europaeus Summer visitor, very scarce and local breeder.

There were eleven ‘churring’ males reported, a welcome increase in records. Reported from RSPB Ynys-hir (three unfledged juveniles found in July), Cross Inn forest, Cors Fochno, Llyn Pendam and near Llangwyryfon. Presumably much more widely distributed as large areas of recent clear-fell are present in the county from which there are no records.

First record was at Talybont on 25th April with the last at Aberystwyth on the 2nd September. Breeding numbers appeared to be low yet again with, five or six pairs at Talybont, a few pairs in Bow St and Eglwysfach and other small colonies in the larger towns of the county. It is very encouraging to see that a number of residents are putting up specially designed swift nesting boxes which are increasingly being used and I would encourage others to do the same.

(B) COMMON KINGFISHER GLAS Y DORLAN Alcedo atthis Scarce breeding resident, mainly in lowland areas. Seen in estuaries and on coast outside breeding season.

The only breeding season records came from near Llandre and from the Aeron near Talsarn. Seen widely in many suitable areas in autumn/winter on the larger rivers (Teifi, Dyfi etc.) with occasional records from the coast.

(A) EURASIAN HOOPOE COPOG Upupa epos Scarce passage migrant

One was seen at Coybal farm, near New Quay on 3rd September (T Brunt).

(A) LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minor CNOCELL FRAITH LEIAF Very uncommon resident breeder.

Two pairs present at RSPB Ynys-hir again this year (RJ, TK, DA et al) with most activity in March and April though occasionally seen during the winter months. There were no records elsewhere.

(A) EUROPEAN GREEN WOODPECKER CNOCELL WERDD Picus viridis Much decreased resident breeder.

Probably bred near Llanddewi brefi with adults in March and a juvenile seen in August (DP). The only other records were of one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 5th April (M Becker), another there on 5th May (PE Miller), one at Cwm Wyre, Llanrhystud on 23rd September (KB) and one at Cross Inn forest on 14th October (AJ).

(B) COMMON KESTREL CUDYLL COCH Falco tinnunculus Scarce and declining breeding resident.

Bred at New Quay with five or six chicks in the nest on 22nd June (JAD). Seen at 27 different sites again this year with numerous coastal records and widely reported inland in areas of rough pasture, open forestry and moorland.

(B) MERLIN CUDYLL BACH Falco columbarius Scarce and declining breeding resident with more on passage and in winter.

Seen from January to 9th May and from 15th September to the end of the year with no breeding season records. In January seen at Ynyslas, Leri, Glandyfi, RSPB Ynys-hir, Cors Fochno and Llyn Fanod. In February at Ynyslas and RSPB Ynys-hir. In March at Teifi est and RSPB Ynys-hir. In April at Aberystwyth, and RSPB Ynys-hir. In May at Ynyslas. In September at Ynyslas, RSPB Ynys-hir, Llansantffraed and Llanrhystud. In October at Ynyslas, Llanon, Llanrhystud and RSPB Ynys-hir. In November at Ynyslas, Llanon, Llanrhystud, Glandyfi and RSPB Ynys-hir. In December at Denmark Farm, Ynys Tachwedd, Joppa, Aberaeron and RSPB Ynys-hir.

(A) EURASIAN HOBBY HEBOG YR EHEDYDD Falco subbuteo Scarce but increasing summer migrant.

The first record was at Clywedog plantation on 8th May, with one at Cors Caron on 15th May and two there on 19th May, one at Joppa on 22nd May, one at Ty’n Y Graig and one at Cors Caron on 28th May, one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 29th May, One at Cors Caron on 3rd June, one at Croeslan on 15th June, two at Cors Caron on 1st July with one there on 6th August, one at Cwm Wyre, Llanrhystud on 26th August and one at Aberbanc and one at Llanon on 3rd September.

(B) PEREGRINE FALCON HEBOG TRAMOR Falco peregrinus Resident breeder.

A few breeding records were reported, mainly along the coast. Outside the breeding season widely reported at mainly coastal sites with a few records inland.

(A) WOODCHAT SHRIKE CIGYDD PENGOCH Lanius senator Rare migrant

A first year was found at Ynys Tachwedd on 24th September (E O’C) and was seen there again the next day.

Widely reported from suitable locations. No large flocks noted with eight at Cwm Einion on 14th November (RS) the highest count.

No information on breeding numbers was received. Seen widely along the coast but no large flocks were reported.

A widespread and common breeding species with an estimated 40 pairs breeding in Talybont village for example. There were some excellent counts at Ynyslas with 557 south on 15th October, 725on 17th October and 2102 south on 22nd October (E O’C).

Presumably a widespread breeding species with good numbers at suitable feeding locations. Widely reported on Birdtrack with 58 at Gwbert on 18th September the highest count (RD).

Extremely common and widespread breeding species seen almost everywhere in the county. High counts included up to 450 at pre-roost gatherings on the sand flats at the Dyfi in November and December.

Reasonably common in both upland and coastal locations, no large counts were reported this year.

(B) MARSH TIT TITW'R WERN P. palustris Fairly common breeding resident in the west and south but rather scarce and local in the north and east. Absent from some upland districts.

Recorded from eight localities with singles at RSPB Ynys-hir in January and December, one at Coed Dolgoed in January, up to two at Coed Y Foel, Llandysul in February and again in April, two pairs at Longwood, Bettws Bledrws in April, one near Llechryd in May, up to three at Ystrad Fflur in June, one at Henllan in September, and one at Cors Caron in December.

(B) WILLOW TIT TITW'R HELYG Poecile montanus Patchily distributed throughout, mainly in wet scrubland areas. Scarcer than Marsh except in the north- east, where it is generally commoner.

Recorded at Denmark farm with two in January and May, at Cors Caron with records from January to August and again in December with a pair with two young seen in July, at Waun Garthenor in April, Longwood, Bettws Bledrws in April and November, Cross Inn forest in May, nr Llanfair Clydogau in November and at Allt Olmarch in December.

(C) EURASIAN SKYLARK EHEDYDD Alauda arvensis Widespread, but declining resident breeder. Commoner near coast in winter and considerable spring and autumn passage movements or in winter with hard weather.

Widely reported throughout the county though generally scarce as a breeding species in mostly re-seeded rye pasture. There were some good movements through Ynyslas in the autumn with peak counts of 119 south on 6th October and 292 on 15th October (E O’C) with flocks of 150 at Llanon in September and October and sixty at Ynys Tachwedd in November.

(C) SAND MARTIN GWENNOL Y GLENNYDD Riparia riparia Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant. Much reduced in numbers in recent years.

First spring record was at Teifi est/marsh with two on 12th March. The largest flocks reported were 200 at Teifi est on 3rd April and 150 at RSPB Ynys-hir in September. One at Ynyslas on 25th September was the last report of the year.

The first spring record was of one at Teifi est on 27th March with the last record of nine at Ynyslas on 15th October. The only large flocks noted were 500 at Ynyslas in September and 1000 at Teifi in July.

One at Teifi est on 5th April was the first record of the year with the last record at Ynyslas on 25th September. The largest flock was of 200 at Aberbanc on 3rd September.

(B) CETTI'S WARBLER TELOR CETTI Cettia cetti Rare breeding resident.

Recorded all year at Teifi marshes, where small numbers bred though how many within the Ceredigion part of the reserve is unclear. Elsewhere, singing birds were recorded most of the year at RSPB Ynys-hir with a minimum of three singing during the breeding season and at Cors Fochno heard all year with birds singing from four locations in May.

(C) LONG-TAILED TIT TITW CYNFFON-HIR Aegithalos caudatus Widespread and fairly common resident breeder. Severely reduced in hard winters

The largest flock was of 12 at Pandy, Eglwysfach in November.

(C) WILLOW WARBLER TELOR YR HELYG Phylloscopus trochilus Numerous breeding summer visitor and passage migrant in all districts

One at RSPB Ynys-hir on 4th April was the first record of the year with one there on 28th September the last record of the year.

(C) COMMON CHIFFCHAFF SIFF-SIAFF P. collybita Summer visitor and passage migrant, breeding commonly wherever woods with suitable undergrowth occur. Heard widely on passage. Occasional winter records, mainly near the coast.

Wintering records came from Teifi marshes with up to two in the first winter period and singles in the second winter period. The first migrants were at Teifi on 15th March with a widespread arrival by the end of the month. The last probable migrant was at Ynyslas on 22nd October. There were 18 singing males at Longwood, Bettws Bledrws on 6th May (IJM).

(C) WOOD WARBLER TELOR Y COED P. sibilatrix Breeding summer visitor, quite common in the upland valley woods of the north and east, rather scarce and local further south and west. Occasional passage records elsewhere.

One at Longwood, Bettws Bledrws on 18th April was the first record of the year. There were ten at Cwm Einion in May, seven singing males at Longwood, Bettws Bledrws and four at Cwm Rheidiol NNR.

(C) SEDGE WARBLER TELOR YR HESG Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Widely but patchily distributed breeding summer visitor, mainly in marshy habitats in valleys and lowlands and a few in young conifer plantations in higher ground.

One at Teifi est./marshes on 8th April was the first record of the year with one there on 24th September the last record. There was an excellent passage through Teifi marshes/estuary in May with 113 ringed on 3rd May and 128 on 4th May (TRG).

(C) EURASIAN REED WARBLER TELOR Y CYRS A. scirpaceus Summer visitor in small numbers, breeding in reedbeds near Dyfi and Teifi estuaries

One at Teifi marshes on 16th April was the first record of the year with one there on 15th September the last record. Breeding season records came from Teifi est., Cors Caron, Cors Fochno/Aberleri, RSPB Ynys-hir and near Glandyfi.

(C) COMMON GRASSHOPPER WARBLER TROELLWR BACH Locustella naevia Fairly common breeding summer visitor to coastal scrub, valley bogs and young conifer plantations

The first was at Teifi marshes on 14th April with one at Ynyslas on 25th September the last record. Widely reported in suitable habitat during the breeding season.

(C) EURASIAN BLACKCAP TELOR PENDDU Sylvia atricapilla Mainly a breeding summer visitor, widely but patchily distributed, generally less common than Garden Warbler. A few passage migrants to October-November and winter records in most years.

There was a widespread arrival from 27th March with the last probable migrant at Ynyslas on 17th October.

(C) GARDEN WARBLER TELOR YR ARDD S. borin Breeding summer visitor, widespread and fairly common in suitable woodland or scrub.

The first migrant was reported from RSPB Ynys-hir on 21st April with the last there on 21st September.

(B) LESSER WHITETHROAT LLWYDFRON FACH S. curruca Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor, probably breeding annually in the south-west.

The first was at Teifi est on 20th April with further April records from New Quay and Llanrhystud. In May seen at Teifi est, Tanybwlch, Llanrhystud, Llechryd and RSPB Ynys-hir. One at RSPB Ynys-hir on 22nd August was the only autumn record.

Fairly common breeding summer visitor near the coast, scarcer inland. The first migrant was at Teifi est on 20th April with the last record at Llansantffraed on 25th September. There were 14 singing males at Cross Inn forest on 21st May (IJM).

(C) GOLDCREST DRYW EURBEN Regulus regulus Common breeding resident in conifer plantations, with small numbers in hardwoods. Seen more widely on passage or in winter. Much reduced by severe winters.

Widely reported from suitable locations.

(A) ROSY STARLING DRUDWEN PINC Pastor roseus Rare summer visitor.

There was an adult and sub-adult at Ynyslas on 6th June (S. Moores), one at Llansantffraed on 8th and 9th June (HAW, AM), one at Ynyslas on 10th June (RR) and an adult photographed in a garden at Borth on 24th June.

(C) COMMON STARLING DRUDWEN Sturnus vulgaris Fairly common and widespread breeder, though scarce in uplands. Numerous on passage and in winter. Small numbers breeding at Ynyslas, Aberystwyth. Aberporth and Aberaeron though presumably breeding more widely in the county. Large flocks included 20000 at Penrhiwllan in November and c. 50000 coming in to roost at the pier, Aberystwyth in March. There were some notable movements at Ynyslas with 7777 passing on 15th November and 8161 the next day.

(C) COMMON BLACKBIRD MWYALCHEN Turdus merula Numerous breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in all districts.

(B) FIELDFARE SOCAN EIRA T. pilaris Common winter visitor, more numerous in inland. On the coast, mainly a passage migrant or hard weather arrival.

In the first winter period seen up to 21st March with a few reasonable flocks which included 200 at Talgarreg and 300 at Ynyslas in January and 250 at Ynyslas in February. In the second winter period seen from 19th October in very small numbers apart from 1424 passing Ynyslas on 16th November.

(B) REDWING COCH DAN ADAIN T. iliacus Mainly a common passage migrant with relatively low numbers in winter, especially in the lowlands, but occasionally large arrivals with hard weather.

Seen in mainly small numbers in the first winter period up to 30th March with 500 at Teifi marshes in January and 200 at Ynyslas in February.

In the second winter period first seen at Cors Caron with three on 3rd October with few large flocks noted with up to 150 in Cwm Einion and 568 passing Ynyslas on 16th November.

(C) SONG THRUSH BRONFRAITH T. philomelos Common and widely distributed breeding resident. More numerous in winter, especially at the coast in hard weather.

Widely reported throughout the county in suitable habitat. 23 at Ynyslas on 19th October was the highest count of the year.

(C) MISTLE THRUSH BRYCH Y COED T. viscivorus Widespread and common breeding resident in all districts except open uplands and exposed coasts. More widely seen in open habitats after breeding season.

The largest flock was 36 at Llyn Eiddwen on 7th October.

(B) SPOTTED FLYCATCHER GWYBEDOG MANNOG Muscicapa striata Widespread, but scarce and declining, breeding summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first record was of one at Cwm Einion on 9th May. Breeding counts included single pairs at twelve locations. The last record was one at Ynyslas on 17th September.

(C) EUROPEAN ROBIN ROBIN GOCH Erithacus rubecula Numerous breeder everywhere except open uplands and exposed coast. More at the coast in winter

(C) EUROPEAN PIED FLYCATCHER GWYBEDOG BRITH Ficedula hypoleuca Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant, common in oak-woods in the north and east. Recent expansion in the south and west.

One at RSPB Ynys-hir on 9th April was the first record of the year. There were six singing males at Denmark Farm on 13th May and ten singing males at Longwood, Bettws Bledrws on 6th May (IJM). At RSPB Ynys-hir 31 pairs nested in boxes (35 in 2007) rearing a mean of 3.4 young per pair. Predation by weasels was heavy this year with ten boxes predated.

(A) BLACK REDSTART TINGOCH DU Phoenicurus ochruros Mainly late autumn and winter visitor in very small numbers.

There was a female at New Quay on 6th and 18th January (VE), a female at the WAG offices, Aberystwyth on 1st March (JT), and one at Trefechan, Aberystwyth on 13th April ((BT).

In the second winter period there was a female at Penmorfa, Aberystwyth on 11th November and 26th December (SW), one at Teifi est on 13th November (WJ), and a female type at New Quay on 4th, 15th and 29th December (AW, HAW).

(C) COMMON REDSTART TINGOCH P. phoenicurus Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant, common in upland districts and rather scarce and local in south and west.

The first record was at RSPB Ynys-hir on 9th April with the last record there on 11th September.

(C) WHINCHAT CREC YR EITHIN Saxicola rubetra Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant, common in upland districts, scarce and local in south and west.

Three at Ynyslas on 3rd May was the first record of the year with one at Llanon on 19th October the last record. There were eight singing males along the Camddwr (seven in 2017) and 17 males at upper Cwm Doethie (16 in 2017) (IJM).

(C) EUROPEAN STONECHAT CLOCHDAR Y CERRIG S. torduata Resident breeder in rough ground all along the coast and more sparsely inland. Seen widely in winter Good numbers breeding inland with four singing males along the Camddwr and three singing males at upper Cwm Doethie for example (IJM). Widely reported along the coast with good numbers present and breeding. There were excellent numbers at Ynyslas in autumn with 32 at Ynys Tachwedd/Ynyslas on 24th September.

(C) NORTHERN WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe TINWEN Y GARN Fairly numerous breeding summer visitor in the uplands and breeding very locally on the coast. More widely seen on passage (including the Greenland form). One at New Quay and one at Llanon on 11th March were the first records of the year with one at Llansantffraed and one at Gwbert on 21st October the last records. Widespread along the coast on spring passage with ten at Tanybwlch on 12th April, 24 at Llanrhystud on 22nd April and 11 at Ynyslas on 4th May. Autumn passage was also widespread on the coast with 28 at Gwbert on 2nd September the highest autumn count.

(B) WHITE-THROATED DIPPER BRONWEN Y DWR Cinclus cinclus Resident breeder on suitable streams in all districts.

Seen in suitable habitat throughout the county.

(C) HOUSE SPARROW ADERYN Y TO Passer domesticus Numerous resident breeder near human settlements. Scarce in upland districts.

Breeding numbers seem stable (perhaps increasing) with no hint of a decline as reported elsewhere in Britain. There were 65 at Aberystwyth in July and good numbers at Ynyslas with 45 in September and 61 in October.

(A) TREE SPARROW GOLFAN Y MYNYDD Passer montanus Rare migrant There was one at the Lime Kilns, Llanrhystud on 18th May (HAW) and one at Ynyslas on 11th October (E O’C).

(A) YELLOW WAGTAIL SIGLEN FELEN Moticilla flava Scarce passage migrant. One at Llanrhystud on 28th May (AM) seems to be the only record this year.

(C) GREY WAGTAIL SIGLEN LWYD M. cinerea Fairly widespread resident breeder by streams and rivers, commonest in the uplands. Tends to shift to lower ground in winter.

Widespread in suitable habitat throughout the county. There was a noticeable movement south at Ynyslas in September and October with ten south on 24th September and 13 on 28th September the peak counts.

(C/B) PIED/WHITE WAGTAIL SIGLEN FRAITH/WEN M. alba Pied (M. a. yarreli), a common resident breeder. White (M. a. alba), a fairly common spring and autumn passage migrant. Pied: The roost in trees near the White Lion pub, Aberystwyth held up to 130 birds in November. Widely reported as breeding in most suitable locations. White: There was a widespread coastal passage in spring from 19th March to 28th May with peak numbers at Llanrhystud with twenty there on 19th April. Very scarce on return passage with a few records of up to four in September. Vis. Mig. carried out at Ynyslas by Edward O’Connor produced noteworthy monthly peaks of 89 alba wagtails south on 28th September and 356 south on 16th October.

(C) MEADOW PIPIT CORHEDYDD Y WAUN A. pratensis Numerous breeder. Scarce in hills in winter, concentrated near coast. Considerable passage movements in spring and autumn. A few flocks were reported with excellent numbers passing through Ynyslas in both spring and autumn with 1000 passing through Ynyslas on the morning of 24th March and there was a very strong and sustained passage there in autumn with peak monthly counts of 789 south on 28th September and 230 on 6th October. Elsewhere, the highest count was of 150 at Mwnt on 31st October.

(C) TREE PIPIT CORHEDYDD Y COED Anthus trivialis Common and widespread breeding summer visitor in upland areas, more local in lower ground and rather scarce in south-west One singing at Cross Inn and one at RSPB Ynys-hir on 22nd April was the first record of the year with one at Ynyslas on 24th September the last record.

(B) WATER PIPIT CORHEDYDD Y DWR Anthus spinoletta Very scarce winter visitor or passage migrant.

In the first winter/spring period there was one at Teifi est. from 1st January to 1st March, one along the Leri on 22nd and 25th January, up to three on the Clettwr in January, one at Tanybwlch and another at Clarach on 12th January, singles at RSPB Ynys-hir in February and March, two at New Quay on 5th April and one at Llanrhystud on 28th April. In autumn/second winter there were singles at Ynyslas on a few dates October to December with two on 16th December, one at Teifi est in October and there were excellent counts at Llanon in early November peaking at twenty on 3rd November. One at Cors Caron on 30th March was the only inland record.

(C) EURASIAN ROCK PIPIT CORHEDYDD Y GRAIG A. petrosus Breeds along rocky coasts, extending into estuaries and low-lying coast in winter.

Seen all around the coast throughout the year and well up the Dyfi during the winter months.

(A) RICHARD’S PIPIT CORHEDYDD Y RICHARD A. Richardi Scarce autumn and winter passage migrant

There was one at Llanon on 18th October (HAW).

(C) COMMON CHAFFINCH JI-BINC Fringilla coelebs Numerous breeding resident in all districts; also passage migrant and winter visitor.

In winter the only large flocks reported was of 200 at Glynarthen in January and 200 at Ynys Tachwedd in December. There was a strong passage through Ynyslas in autumn however with peak counts of 1129 passing through on 15th October and 1002 on 17th October (E O’C).

(B) BRAMBLING PINC Y MYNYDD Fringilla montifringilla Annual passage migrant and winter visitor in very variable numbers.

Rather scarce in the first winter period with 15 at Teifi est on 3rd March the highest count and last recorded on 20th April. First recorded in autumn on 15th October with a reasonable passage through Ynyslas with peak counts of 48 on 22nd October and 49 north on 27th October. Rather scarce elsewhere with no large flocks reported.

(A) HAWFINCH GYLFINBRAFF Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce visitor.

There was one in a garden at Trefenter on 7th January (CB), two at Wenallt, nr Trawsced on 11th February (HAW), and one in a garden at Ystumtuen on 28th March and on 7th and 8th April (EI).

(C) EURASIAN BULLFINCH COCH Y BERLLAN Pyrrhula pyrrhula Widespread and fairly common resident breeder in lowlands. Scarce in the uplands.

Widely reported in Birdtrack from the main birdwatching sites with 14 at Cwm Rheidiol on 6th January the highest count of the year.

(C) EUROPEAN GREENFINCH LLINOS WERDD Chloris chloris Fairly common resident breeder in lowland districts, scarce in the upland areas.

Widely reported in Birdtrack from the main birdwatching sites though no counts were in double figures.

(B) TWITE LLINOS Y MYNYDD Linaria flavirostris Uncommon winter visitor.

There were three along the Leri on 24th January (E O’C) and up to 15 at Ynyslas/Ynys Tachwedd between 29th October and 14th December (MO).

(B) COMMON LINNET LLINOS Linaria cannabina Fairly common breeder in suitable scrub near coast, scarcer in uplands. Mainly a summer visitor, April- October. Relatively few in most places in winter.

In the first winter period the largest flock was of 200 at Glynarthen on 19th January. Reported widely along the coast during the breeding season with a few records inland from suitable locations such as Cross Inn and Llyn Eiddwen where there were 60 on 20th May. There was a strong and prolonged passage at Ynyslas during autumn from 15th September to October with visible migration count peaks of 620 on 24th September and 636 on 19th October. Numbers remained high here into the winter, especially at Ynys Tachwedd, with 413 on 16th November. Elsewhere, there were good counts of 400 at Mwnt on 31st October and 200 at Llansantffraed on 9th October.

(B) LESSER REDPOLL LLINOS BENGOCH Acanthis cabaret Resident breeder, mainly in upland districts. A scarce winter visitor or passage migrant along the coast and in the south.

Reported widely from wetter scrubby areas (eg Cors Caron, Cors Fochno and RSPB Ynys-hir) and from young conifer plantations in the uplands though no flocks of over ten birds were reported.

(B) RED CROSSBILL GYLFINGROES Loxia curvirostra Rather irregular visitor in very variable numbers. Recorded in most recent years, mainly between July and October, though seen at all seasons. Occasional breeder.

Widely reported from the more mature, larger forestry blocks in the county and from a few oak woods in July and August. Present at Allt-Y Crib, Talybont from January to April and from July to the end of the year with up to 25 reported. Elsewhere, the only counts in double figures were ten at Tir Sisial, Llanrhystud on 29th June and 14 at Allt Olmarch, Llangybi on 4th December.

(C) EUROPEAN GOLDFINCH NICO Carduelis carduelis Widely distributed breeder, scarce in the uplands, fairly common elsewhere. Mainly a summer visitor, April-October. Relatively few in winter.

The only flock of note was of 25 at Ynyslas on 18th September.

(B) EURASIAN SISKIN PILA GWYRDD C. spinus Variable numbers breeding in plantations in the north and east, otherwise a passage migrant and winter visitor. Less common in the south.

Numerous in suitable locations with a few flocks noted including 39 at Ynyslas on 22nd October and 35 at RSPB Ynys-hir on 10th December.

(B) YELLOWHAMMER BRAS MELYN Emberiza citrinella Widely but patchily distributed resident breeder; decreasing.

The only records were of one at Ystumtuen on 28th March, two at Cwm Brefi on 8th June with one there the next day, one at a feeder at Ffostrasol on 7th December and four at Pond Yr Oerfa on 29th December.

(C) COMMON REED BUNTING BRAS Y CYRS E. schoeniclus Fairly widely distributed breeder in suitable wetlands at all altitudes. Scarce inland and more at the coast in winter.

Widely reported from suitable sites during the breeding season with 58 at Ynyslas on 5th October the highest count of the year.

(A) LAPLAND LONGSPUR BRAS Y GOGLEDD Calcarius lapponicus Rare autumn and winter visitor.

At Llanon there was one on 10th and 18th October, four on 28th October, three on 29th October, two on 30th October, two on 2nd November and four on 3rd November. There were two at Llanrhystud on 30th October. At Ynyslas/Ynys Tachwedd there one on 15th and 29th October, one on 10th November and five on 15th November.

(A) SNOW BUNTING BRAS YR EIRA Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce winter visitor

There was one at Llanrhystud on 2nd February (SE), the only record of the year.

SUMMARY OF FIRST AND LAST DATES OF REGULAR SUMMER AND WINTER MIGRANTS

Summer migrant Winter migrant Species Fist date Last date Last date First date Whooper Swan 19th March 14th October Manx Shearwater 31st March - Osprey 22nd March 11th September Hobby 8th May 3rd September Little Ringed Plover 18th March 4th October Whimbrel 16th April 21st November Common Sandpiper 6th April 18th November Purple Sandpiper 5th May 23rd October Sandwich Tern 21st March 30th September Cuckoo 15th April - Swift 25th April 2nd September Sand Martin 12th March 25th September Swallow 27th March 15th October House Martin 5th April 3rd September Black Redstart 13th April 11th November Redstart 9th April 11th September Wheatear 11th March 21st October Whinchat 3rd May 19th October Tree Pipit 22nd April 24th September Redwing 30th March 3rd October Fieldfare 21st March 19th October Garden Warbler 21st April 21st September Blackcap 27th March 17th October Whitethroat 20th April 25th September Lesser Whitethroat 20th April 22nd August Grasshopper Wblr. 14th April 24th September Sedge Warbler 18th April 24th September Reed Warbler 16th April 15th September Willow Warbler 4th April 28th September Chiffchaff 15th March 22nd October Wood Warbler 18th April - Spotted Flycatcher 9th May 17th September Pied Flycatcher 9th April -

Refer to the systematic list for sightings details including locations and number of birds seen.

THE BREEDING BIRDS OF LONG WOOD, BETWS BLEDRWS 2018 Ian Morris

Long Wood runs for several kilometres along a low ridge between Llangybi and Lampeter and covers 125ha. Natural Resources Wales define Long Wood as an ancient woodland site, partly restored, and partly covered with plantations, both deciduous and coniferous. Traces of this ancient continuity can be seen throughout and underlie the obvious richness of the location. Today it comprises a mosaic of hardwood and softwood stands in roughly equal proportions. I believe that conifers began to be planted from the middle of the last century but the extensive plantations of oak and beech predate this.

In 2003 it was taken over and established as a Community Woodland. Initially, changes were mostly to improve access and interpretation. However, in the last three years significant management has occurred to the woodland itself. A large area of mature conifers has been felled which covered at least 10% of the entire site. Some natural regeneration has been allowed here but restocking with native tree species is also happening. Additionally, volunteers are coppicing a number of small pockets, though these add up to a relatively small total area. Finally, a start has been made at thinning the mature beech stands.

In 2005 Red Liford undertook a breeding bird survey (unpublished) for the group running Long Wood. He has kindly given me a copy of that survey so that I could attempt to determine whether any changes have occurred to the bird community by 2018. Red undertook 6 visits of approximately 5 hours in length, plotting birds’ locations and behaviour on maps using the Common Bird Census technique. In 2018 I made 5 visits of approximately 3 hours length recording the presence of a particular bird only. Red made two visits in the evening which I did not and therefore I have excluded his records of Tawny and Barn Owl from the analysis. Since the two surveys differ in their degree of rigour I have decided to compare the results by arranging both sets in order of abundance. The position for each species in 2005 is in italics. The number of breeding pairs recorded by Red is also stated in italics for future reference. The results from both surveys are presented in the table on the next page.

Red recorded 530 breeding pairs in total whilst my own survey found 435. I believe this difference is probably mainly due to the different methods employed in the field.

Generally, the populations of the common woodland residents seem stable and these still form the significant majority of the Long Wood bird community.

There were notably fewer Redpoll, Garden Warbler, Willow Warbler and Dunnock in the present study. This perhaps suggests that their favoured habitat of open scrub, young plantation and pioneer woodland has decreased since 2005. Furthermore, Chiffchaff and Blackcap are two species which have increased considerably in Wales since 2005 and therefore one might have expected them to be more abundant now. In fact, the former is far less common and the latter unchanged in number. Again, this suggests that there has been a loss of the shrub and thicket layer within much of Long Wood, maybe due to the maturing of conifer plantations since the first survey.

The number of pairs of breeding birds at Long Wood in 2018:

2018 2005 SPECIES BREEDING PAIRS 1 2 Robin 52 55 2 1 Wren 50 66 3 6 Blue Tit 39 29 4 8 Coal Tit 31 25 5 5 Blackbird 27 30 6 7 Chaffinch 23 26 7 11 Blackcap 21 22 8 3 Song Thrush 19 35 9 4 Chiffchaff 18 34 9 12 Great Tit 18 16 11 10 Goldcrest 14 23 12 35 Pied Flycatcher 10 1 12 28 Siskin 10 4 14 17 Nuthatch 9 9 14 22 Mistle Thrush 9 6 16 8 Willow Warbler 8 25 16 13 Wood Pigeon 8 14 16 21 Carrion Crow 8 7 16 17 Treecreeper 8 9 20 26 Wood Warbler 7 5 21 22 Jay 6 6 21 22 Great Spotted Woodpecker 6 6 23 14 Garden Warbler 5 11 24 15 Bullfinch 4 10 25 17 Redpoll 3 9 25 15 Dunnock 3 10 25 22 Buzzard 3 6 28 20 Redstart 2 8 28 31 Long-tailed Tit 2 2 28 29 Raven 2 3 28 26 Marsh Tit 2 5 32 35 Pied Wagtail 1 1 32 0 Tree Pipit 1 0 32 29 Goldfinch 1 3 32 0 Stock Dove 1 0 32 31 Red Kite 1 2 32 31 Spotted Flycatcher 1 1 32 35 Willow Tit 1 1 32 0 Crossbill 1 0

Bullfinch and Marsh Tit also appear to have declined significantly. Red estimated there to be 5 pairs of Marsh Tits present whereas I found only 2. The decline may be real but it could be that the more sensitive survey methods employed in 2005 were better at detecting these particular two species which can be quiet and elusive in the breeding season. Red also saw a Sparrowhawk on one occasion which I did not though I believe it reasonable to think that my survey simply overlooked this species rather than it being absent. Song Thrush numbers were down too but many of these were previously holding territory in the mature conifer plantations that have only recently been felled. Finally, Greenfinch has also been lost. Given the recent dramatic decline in numbers of this bird across the UK due to disease this loss is hardly surprising.

There have been some gains as well as losses. Pied Flycatchers have increased from one to 10 pairs. This is entirely due to the provision of nest boxes across the site and is greatly welcomed. Wood Warblers also seem to be thriving here whereas they appear to be in decline in some areas of Wales. I found 7 singing males in 2018 which compares to 5 in 2005. Indeed, there have been as many as ten present in some recent years but two or three tended to be present in the conifer stands that are now cleared. Another species in decline nationally, Spotted Flycatcher, is still hanging on, but for how much longer? Crossbill, Tree Pipit and Stock Dove were new additions to the breeding community this time. Both surveys recorded Willow Tit on a single occasion. In many years of visiting Long Wood I had never seen them here before. I believe they are probably occasional visitors from a small breeding population in the Dulas valley not far away.

The kind of limited clear felling, sensitive thinning and rotational coppicing now being undertaken at Long Wood is exactly the type of management that Red suggested should happen in his report. It is creating a wider mosaic of habitats that should be of benefit to a range of wildlife, not just birds. The recently felled areas in particular will develop into dense scrub in the next few years and will probably be good for several bird species that favour that habitat, at least for a period of time. Of course, some species, such as certain long distance summer migrants, may be in decline due to reasons well beyond the control of the management team at Long Wood. Overall, however, I believe the future is currently looking bright for this beautiful woodland.

Ceredigion Bird Ringing Report 2018 Mark Cutts

The 2018 total of 7528 is up on last year and far above the recent year totals. We do have a few notable efforts that are worthy of mentioning. Once again over half the Whimbrels ringed in Britain were ringed in the county, a total of 38 of 63, all by Tony Cross and the Mid-Wales Ringing Group. Another great effort by them was the 1449 Dunlin ringed which represents about half of the British Total. Alongside them we have the Teifi Ringing Group in the south of the county and the stupendous effort they put in every year ringing passerines and more.

Species 2018 Since 2017 Since 1991 1991 Whooper Swan 1 8 Coal Tit 87 770 Teal 4 35 Willow Tit 1 99 Mallard 1 16 Skylark 80 412 Red Grouse 2 4 Sand Martin 22 1009 Storm Petrel 6 125 Swallow 322 8561 Sparrowhawk 1 77 Cetti’s Warbler 10 205 Buzzard 1 137 Long-tailed Tit 26 943 Kestrel 24 335 Wood Warbler 2 108 Hobby 1 1 Chiffchaff 140 3169 Oystercatcher 20 277 Willow Warbler 21 1478 Golden Plover 5 206 Blackcap 325 2170 Kentish Plover 1 1 Garden Warbler 11 316 Ringed Plover 31 743 Lesser Whitethroat 4 75 Lapwing 38 748 Whitethroat 10 304 Whimbrel 38 398 Grasshopper Warbler 1 95 Curlew 7 143 Sedge Warbler 769 6392 Bar-tailed Godwit 2 18 Reed Warbler 293 3603 Black-tailed Godwit 1 3 Nuthatch 37 648 Turnstone 7 231 Treecreeper 12 166 Knot 23 231 Wren 92 1173 Curlew Sandpiper 7 71 Starling 8 2260 Sanderling 7 50 Dipper 21 348 Dunlin 1449 7431 Blackbird 66 1730 Common Sandpiper 7 71 Fieldfare 4 143 Greenshank 1 17 Song Thrush 16 383 Redshank 111 343 Redwing 29 649 Jack Snipe 14 66 Robin 109 1781 Woodcock 177 2146 Pied Flycatcher 204 13414 Snipe 27 245 Redstart 11 657 Sandwich Tern 18 205 Stonechat 4 168 Common Tern 5 17 Whinchat 5 42 Stock Dove 4 43 Wheatear 4 181 Collared Dove 1 22 Dunnock 99 1074 Barn Owl 65 992 House Sparrow 27 598 Tawny Owl 13 59 Grey Wagtail 1 97 Nightjar 936 21 Pied Wagtail 29 860 Kingfisher 9 125 Meadow Pipit 95 752 54

Great Spotted Woodpecker 5 131 Rock Pipit 1 117 Chough 31 752 Brambling 270 479 Magpie 6 119 Chaffinch 113 3467 Jay 6 102 Bullfinch 62 960 Jackdaw 1 135 Greenfinch 18 1533 Carrion Crow 11 89 Twite 8 8 Raven 5 768 Linnet 613 1803 Goldcrest 53 976 Lesser Redpoll 4 225 Firecrest 1 19 Goldfinch 277 2314 Blue Tit 604 12829 Siskin 22 1282 Great Tit 204 5488 Reed Bunting 138 1347 Total ringed 9190 Note 1

Note 1 - The above list includes only the 97 species that were ringed in 2018. In total 109,839 birds of 163 species have been ringed in Ceredigion since 1991.

Recoveries The following records are those that have been deemed as noteworthy, either through the distance travelled by a species or by an impressive longevity record for the year. There are many more but space limits us to those annotated below.

C.B.R. – Caught by Ringer C.R.S – Colour-rings seen F.D.(S) – Freshly Dead (Shot) F.D.(C) - Freshly Dead (Hit by Car) D.(BoP) – Dead (Bird of Prey)

Red Kite GF74119 Nestling 12.06.96 Near Ponterwyd C.R.S. 05.04.18 Nant-Yr-Arian, Ponterwyd 21y 8m 24d

Oystercatcher FH77812 Nestling 27.05.18 Glentress (Scottish Borders) S 356km C.B.R. 09.09.18 Ynylas, Borth 0y 3m 13d

Ringed Plover ISR 848299 Nestling 12.06.10 Flatey, Breidafjordur, Iceland SE 1781 km C.B.R. 02.04.18 7y 9m 21d

Dunlin BT88140 Adult 02.06.18 Ynylas, Borth N 1078km C.R.S. 07.06.18 Sorvagur, Faroe Islands 0y 0m 5d

BT84947 First Year 19.12.17 Ynylas, Borth N 1130km C.R.S. 05.08.18 Klydeso, Dragor, Denmark 0y 7m 17d

BT74698 First Year 11.09.18 Ynylas, Borth S 2205km C.R.S. 11.10.18 Sidi Moussa, Morocco 0y 1m 0d

BT84502 Adult 06.09.17 Ynylas, Borth S 3784km C.R.S. 06.12.18 Arel Island, Mauritania 1y 3m 0d 55

Note : There were 107 foreign recoveries of Ceredigion ringed Dunlin including France, The Gambia, Portugal and Spain

Kittiwake ISR 584319 Nestling 21.07.10 Flatey, Breidafjordur, Iceland SE 1804km Fresh Dead 26.02.18 Aberaeron 7y 7m 5d

Sandwich Tern DK38118 Adult 13.09.15 Ynylas, Borth S 8541km C.R.S. 20.02.16 Mile 4 Salt Works, Namibia 0y 5m 7d 30.12.18 Mile 4 Salt Works, Namibia 3y 3m 17d

DE69219 First Year 19.09.16 Ynylas, Borth C.R.S. 20.08.18 Phos Point, Conwy N 90km 21.10.18 Strand, Western Cape, South SSE 9889km Africa 2y 1m 2d

Chough EH81461 Nestling 06.06.06 Near Aberystwyth NE 17km C.B.R. 03.02.18 Talybont 11y 7m 28d

Starling LIK KH59203 First Year 15.06.17 Ventes Ragas, Lithuania WSW 1688km Long Dead 09.04.18 Llanddewi-Brefi, 0y 9m 25d

Brambling S681969 Adult Male 10.10.18 Grimston, Yorkshire SW 299km C.B.R. 21.12.18 Pontrhydygroes 0y 2m 11d

Linnet Z928387 Juvenile 02.08.17 Tobha Aisgeirnis, Western SSE 589km Isles C.B.R. 13.03.18 Mwnt 0y 6m 7d

Reed Bunting L531132 First Year 08.08.10 Teifi Marshes 1km C.B.R. 31.05.18 Teifi marshes 7y 9m 23d

Gazetteer of Ceredigion place names.

Aberaeron SN45 62 Cilcennin 52 60 Gwbert 16 49 Aberarth 47 63 Cilgerran 19 43 Hafod 76 72 Aber Clettwr 64 94 Claerddu 79 68 Henfaes, Llyn Brianne 78 49 Abercoed, Tregaron 67 58 Claerwen 83 65 Hen Hafod 65 94 Aberffrwd 68 78 Clarach 58 83 Hengyrynt wood 46 60 Aberleri 61 91 Clarach bog 59 83 Henllan 35 40 Abermagwr 66 73 Clywedog plantation 64 49 Highmead 50 43 Aber Peithnant 75 84 Coed Dolgoed 74 66 Llanbadarn Fawr 60 80 Aberporth 26 51 Coed y Foel, Llandysul 42 42 Llandewi Brefi 66 55 Abeystwyth 58 81 Cors Caron NNR 69 63 Llanerchaeron 48 60 Allt Ddu 71 97 Cors Fochno 62 90 Llanfair Clydogau 62 51 Allt Dologau 77 73 Cors Ian 66 69 Llangrannog 31 54 Allt Fedw, Trawsgoed 66 72 Coed Garthenor 63 55 Llangwyryfon 59 70 Allt Hoffnant 32 52 Coed Simdde Lwyd 71 78 Llanilar 62 75 Allt Lwyd, Llanrhystud 52 68 Cross Inn forest 57 65 Llannina 40 60 Alltyrodyn House 44 44 Black Covert 66 73 Llanio Wood 63 55 Angler’s Retreat 74 92 Cruglas (Capel Cynon) 38 51 Llanon 51 67 Bethania 57 53 Cwm Berwyn 71 58 Llanrhystud 53 69 Beulah 28 46 Cwm Brefi 65 55 Llansantffraed 51 68 Blaen Myherin ruin 80 79 Cwm Cletwr 66 92 Llechryd 21 43 Blaenplwyf 57 75 Cwm Cyneiniog 72 88 Lledrod 64 71 Blaenporth 26 48 Cwmcou 29 42 Lledrod common 66 69 Bontgoch 68 86 Cwm Einion 72 92 Llyn Blaenmelindwr 71 83 Borth 60 90 Cwm Mabws 56 68 Llyn Conach 74 93 Bow Street 62 84 Cwm Mwyro 77 65 Llyn Craig y Pistyll 72 85 Bray’s pool 72 81 Cwmtydu 35 57 Llyn Du 79 69 Bronnant 64 67 Cwm Wyre 58 70 Llyn Egnant 79 67 Bronwydd 35 43 Cwmystwyth 78 73 Llyn Eiddwen 60 67 Bryn Glas 67 52 Cwrtnewydd 48 47 Llyn Fanod 60 64 Brynhoffnant 33 51 Denmark Farm 58 53 Llyn Frongoch 72 75 Bwlch-bychan 48 43 Derwen Gam (Oakford) 45 58 Llyn Fyrddon Fach 79 70 Bwlch Nant yr Arian 71 81 Devil’s Bridge 74 77 Llyn Fyrddon Fawr 80 70 Bwlchcrwys pool 70 77 Domen Las (Glandyfi) 68 96 Llyn Glandwgan 70 75 Bwlchystyllen ruin 72 86 Dyfi Estuary 63 94 Llyn Gwngu 83 72 Capel Bangor 65 80 Eisteddfa Gurig 79 84 Llyn yr Oerfa 73 80 Capel Cynon 38 49 Falcondale lake 56 49 Llyn Pendam 70 83 Cardigan 17 46 Ffair Rhos 73 68 Llyn Penrhaeadr 75 93 Cardigan Island 15 51 Foel Fawr 69 95 Llyn Rhosrhydd 70 75 Carreg Lydan 16 51 Glandyfi 69 96 Llyn Rhuddnant 80 78 Carreg Nedwydd 29 53 Glanyrafon 60 80 Llyn Syfydrin 72 84 Carreg Walltog 38 60 Glantrisant pond 72 74 Llyn Teifi 78 67 Cefncoch 74 95 Gorsgoch 48 50 Llywernog 73 80 57

Cenarth 26 41 Graig Ddu (Aberarth) 49 64 Lochtyn 32 55 Llyn Teifi 78 67 Pant pool 66 56 Taliesin 65 91 Llywernog 73 80 Penbryn 29 52 Talybont 65 89 Lochtyn 32 55 Pencarreg Gopa 72 94 Tanybwlch 57 79 Lodge Park 66 93 Pencefn pool 66 85 Teifi Estuary 17 47 Longwood 60 51 Penderi NR 55 73 Teifi Marshes 18 45 Lovesgrove 62 81 Penglais Wood, Aber. 59 82 Teifi Pools 78 67 Mabws house 56 68 Penmoelciliau 33 55 Trawsgoed 66 73 Maesllyn Pool, C. Caron 69 62 Penrhyncoch 64 84 Trefenter/Mynydd B’ch 60 68 Maesllyn P. Ll’gwyryfon 59 70 Pensarn pools 68 66 Tregaron 67 59 Morfa Bychan 56 70 Plwmp 36 52 Trisant 71 75 Morfa Cyd 65 93 Plynlimon 78 68 Ty Gwyn pool 53 64 Morfa Mawr 49 65 Pond yr Oerfa 72 79 Tyncwm 77 66 Mwnt 19 52 Ponterwyd 74 80 Tynygraig 69 69 Mydroilyn 45 55 Pontrhydfendigaid 73 66 Tywi Forest 77 61 Myherin Forest 77 76 Pont Gogoyan 64 54 Wallog/Sarn Cynfelin 58 85 Nanteos pool 61 78 Rhosrhydd bog 57 73 Ynys-hir 68 96 Nant Rhuddnant 77 77 Rhos Glyn yr Helyg NR 49 51 Ynyslas 60 94 Nant Rhys ruin 83 79 Rhuddlan Teifi 49 43 Ynys Lochtyn 31 55 Nant-y-Moch reservoir 75 86 Soar-y-mynydd 78 53 Ynys Tachwedd 61 93 Nebo 54 65 Strata Florida 74 65 Ystrad Caron 66 59 New Quay Head 37 60 Swyddffynnon 69 66 Ystrad Meurig 70 67 Old Warren Hill NR 61 78 Talgarreg 42 51 Ystumtuen 73 78

Starlings at Aberystwyth Pier Bob Relph 58