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7474 2007 2007 2007 2007

West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 74 2007 The Birds of , , and the 2007

Annual Report 74

Editor D.W. Emley

Published by West Midland Bird Club 2009 Published by West Midland Bird Club

© West Midland Bird Club

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without permission of the copyright owners.

The West Midland Bird Club is a registered charity No. 213311.

Website: http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com/

ISSN 1476-2862

Printed by Healeys Printers Ltd., Unit 10, The Sterling Complex, Farthing Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5AP.

Price £9.00 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands 2007

Annual Report 74

Contents

4 Editorial 5 Submission of Records 6 Birds and Weather in 2007 14 Systematic List 202 Ringing in 2007

207 Unusual Spring Migration of Wheatears in Staffordshire 2007 209 Great Reed Warbler – Barton Gravel Pits 20th May 2007. A First For Staffs 210 The loss of the native Black Grouse population from the Peak District

219 County Lists 226 Gazetteer 232 List of Contributors 236 Index of Species

Front Cover Photograph: Cetti’s Warbler at Brandon, Steve Valentine

3 Editorial Rarities come and go but it is not often that we lose a breeding species from our Region. The Black Grouse is one such bird. It was a familiar sight to many Club members not that long ago but its slow decline is clearly outlined in past Reports. We are fortunate, therefore, that Dr Derek Yalden, well-known authority on the fauna of the Peak District, has contributed an excellent account of the demise of this species in Staffordshire.

It’s not all bad news though. A report on the Breeding Birds of Cannock Chase in 2007 by John Bennett on behalf of the Club notes 32 pairs of Wood Lark and four pairs of Dartford Warbler plus five further singing males; who would have predicted that just a few years ago! Coupled with that we have attempted breeding by Mediterranean Gulls and, with the large numbers of wintering Little Egrets, one wonders when the first nest will be found. Global warming may be worrying but it will provide some interesting birdwatching in the coming years.

Acknowledgements I would like to thank all those who helped with this year’s report. I am especially grateful to all those who contributed records, especially those sending in valuable census data; to Nick Pomiankowski, Steve Richards and Derek Yalden for their articles; to Bert Coleman for another fascinating Ringing Report and to artists and photographers Alan Dean, Bill Goldstraw, Adam Holiday, Phil Jones, Dave Kelsall, Steve Seal, Steve Valentine and Andy Warr for making their work available; and above all to the County Recorders and their teams:

Warwickshire: Jonathan Bowley Worcestershire: Brian Stretch, Report Writers & Compilers; Brian Stretch, Andy Warr and Edward Lea, Rarities Committee; Brian Stretch, Andy Warr, Dave Walker, Gavin Peplow, Rob Prudden and Terry Hinett. Staffordshire: Nick Pomiankowski, Report Writers; NDP, Neil Carter, Martin Godfrey and Andy Lawrence, Rarities Committee; Eric Clare, Bernard Smith, Mark Sutton, Steve Turner and Steve Nuttall, Site Report Compilers; Richard Berry, Mike Boote, Graham Evans, Steve Nuttall, Ray Perry, Brenda Scott; Data Input and proof reading; Mary Holley. West Midlands: Kevin Clements.

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

David Emley

4 Submission of Records

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

Records should be sent to the appropriate County recorder:

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

Worcestershire Brian Stretch 13 Pitmaston Road, Worcester, WR2 4HY [email protected]

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

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

Ringing Secretary All ringing recoveries and sightings of colour-marked birds should be sent to: A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs, B78 3HZ.

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

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

5 Birds and Weather 2007

A total of 228 species was recorded in the Region in 2007; rather poor compared with the 239 in 2006 and 242 in 2005. Amongst them were no new additions to the Regional list but Staffordshire had its first Great Reed Warbler; Worcestershire its first Squacco Heron and Lapland Bunting; Warwickshire its first Greenland White-fronted Goose and West Midlands its first modern record of Bean Goose. In addition Mediterranean Gull attempted to breed for the first time in Warwickshire and Staffordshire while Nightjar was reported from eight new sites in the latter county. However, while Warwickshire had its first modern record of breeding Wood Lark no Twite were reported in Staffordshire for the first time.

January was, overall, the warmest since 1916 with rainfall above average, despite a fairly dry last week to the month. The New Year began windy and showery with temperatures above normal. Birds remaining from 2006 included a drake Garganey at Bittell, two Great Northern Divers at Chasewater, a Firecrest at Wombourne STW, a Great Skua at Draycote, Snow Bunting at Chasewater and Black Redstarts at Holt and Blithfield. New birds for the year were a Red Knot at Kingsbury, Black-necked Grebe at Barton GP (to the 21st), a first-winter Iceland Gull at Chasewater, an adult Kittiwake at Marsh Lane NR, three Common Redpolls at Hanchurch Woods and Scandinavian Chiffchaffs at Kempsey STW and Lower Moor. From the 5th to 7th a wet spell with frontal rain pushed southeast with further rain, moving northeast across most parts on the 6th. Temperatures remained above normal. An immature Iceland Gull was seen at Bartley and an adult at Draycote on the 5th while a female Red-breasted Merganser was found at Chesterton on the 7th. The wet weather continued to the 13th accompanied by strong winds, especially on the 11th. A Greenland White-fronted Goose arrived at Lea Marston on the 9th and remained until the 14th – a first for Warwickshire. On the 11th two female Common Scoter and an immature Glaucous Gull were seen at Draycote and an immature Iceland Gull at Coton. An immature Iceland Gull arrived at Bartley on the 12th and remained to the 26th. A small influx of Kittiwakes following strong winds on the 11th resulted in records at Belvide, Arrow Valley Lake and Dunstall Park. It was largely dry and sunny on the 14th, but becoming more cloudy through the 15th, with rain spreading in, especially overnight. The first skein of Pink-footed Geese for the year was seen over Cheadle on the 14th. Strong winds became widespread on the 18th with damage and disruption due to the wind over many areas; Keele recorded winds of 70mph. From the 18th a colder spell ensued, with temperatures around or just below normal. There were sunny spells and blustery showers, with many parts having frosty nights too. Blustery showers continued on the 21st, with snow over the Pennines and some western parts. A Pomarine Skua was found at Aqualate on the 21st, three Whooper Swans at Salford Priors and a Water Pipit at Doxey. The poor weather over the next few days, with sleet and snow in many parts, prompted another movement of Pink-feet with considerable numbers passing over Westport Lake and Little Aston on 22nd, 300 over Apedale and Keele on 23rd, 318 over Ladywalk and 150 over Westport on 24th culminating in over 3000 over the Potteries on the 25th. The wintry spell cleared on the 26th with high pressure bringing dry but cloudy conditions. An immature Iceland Gull appeared at Wildmoor Quarry on the 26th while a Dark-bellied Brent Goose dropped in at Marsh Lane NR on 27th, 30 Pink-feet flew over Trent Vale on the 30th and an adult Kittiwake was found at Shustoke on the 31st. A huge

6 Starling roost that developed at Stone Industrial Park made its way on to BBC’s Midlands Today and attracted many visitors into February.

February was, on the whole, very mild but with rainfall well above average. The month started relatively dry and settled but with frost and fog in places. The passage of Pink- footed Geese continued with a skein of 200 over Tittesworth on the 2nd while at Blithfield there were 27 Whooper Swans on the 3rd and 17 Bewick’s Swans at Draycote on the 8th. The unsettled conditions continued on the 10th, although it was mostly rain that fell then, with snow on the hills. A first-winter Iceland Gull was seen at Blithfield on the 11th, a Common Redpoll at Guy’s Cliffe on the 12th and a first-winter Glaucous Gull at Belvide on the 13th. The showery weather of the 11th and 12th gave way, briefly, to fine conditions before heavy rain crossed the Region on the 14th leaving showery weather for the next week. An immature Iceland Gull was seen at Lower Moor on the 17th while 25 Common Buzzards soaring over Fenny Compton was a sign that spring was not far off. A short dry interlude around the 20th was short-lived with heavy showers and wind giving way to more showers which lasted to the month’s end. A first-winter Iceland Gull was found at Chasewater on the 20th while Knypersley Reservoir was host to a herd of 26 Whooper Swans on the 24th. Two female Scaup appeared at Whitemoor Haye on the 25th while a first-winter Glaucous Gull remained at Chasewater from the 27th to April 12th, calling in at Drayton Bassett Pits too.

March was, on the whole, a mild and sunny month with slightly below average rainfall and a cold snap around mid-month. The month started rather unsettled, with bands of rain and strong winds giving way to showers and one wonders what the first Sand Martin of the year at on the 3rd made of it! The arrival of the first Barn Swallow at Coton on the 4th coincided with a change to warmer conditions while an Avocet called at Draycote on the 7th. Pressure began to build from the south on the 8th bringing mild conditions with 15°C at Great Malvern on the 10th. A Tundra Bean Goose at Marsh Lane NR on the 9th was a county first. A Rock Pipit was seen at Draycote on the 10th while the first Northern Wheatear was found by Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium on the 11th. Further weak fronts spread through between the 12th and 14th, but it was mainly dry with some dense fog overnight. A Black Redstart was seen at Fenny Compton on the 12th while a flock of seven Avocets arrived at Upton Warren (where two pairs later bred) and a Snow Bunting flew over Ascote Hill on the 13th and three Black-necked Grebes were seen at Coton on the 14th. Pressure dropped from the 15th leading to an unsettled period with showers and bands of heavier rain before the winds turned northerly leading to a cold air flow from the 20th. A Great Northern Diver arrived to join the two long-stayers at Draycote on the 17th; remaining to April 29th. Meanwhile the first Ring Ouzel was seen on on the 18th. The 19th saw a second-winter Iceland Gull at Chasewater, an immature Glaucous Gull at Draycote and an adult Kittiwake at Belvide. The first House Martin was seen at Ladywalk and a first-winter Kittiwake arrived at Sheepwash UP on the 21st while another Iceland Gull, a first-winter this time, was seen at Chasewater on the 22nd. The remainder of the month saw predominately high pressure to the north-east of the UK, with cool north-easterly winds at times, but with some showery intervals as well, particularly on the 29th and 30th. Two Dark-bellied Brent Geese were seen at Abbots Salford on the 25th as well as Kittiwakes at Upper Bittell and Dunstall Park. A Red-crested Pochard at Draycote on the 27th was the first of 14 to be seen in the county later in the year! Spring migrants then began to appear in force with Hobby at

7 Shustoke on the 28th, Garganey at Upton Warren, Common Whitethroat at Coton and Willow Warbler at Coundon Wedge on the 29th. To end the month a Firecrest was found at Middleton Hall on the 31st.

April mean temperatures were the warmest on record across , with well above average sunshine and very dry too. The month started with brisk easterly winds for the first few days but it was warm. However, on the 3rd, a weak cold front spread southwards, and brought much cooler conditions for a day or so before recovering strongly and encouraging an influx of migrants. A Black-necked Grebe was seen at Upper Bittell on the 1st and three Water Pipits at Whitemoor Haye. A Garganey was found at Brandon on the 2nd and the first Yellow Wagtail at Kinsham. These were followed on the 3rd by an Osprey at Tittesworth and the first Cuckoos at Astwood Bank and Castlemorton Common. A Black- necked Grebe arrived at Aqualate and an Avocet at Dosthill on the 6th and the first Garden Warbler at Chaddesley Wood on the 7th. On the 8th, the first Tree Pipit was seen on Highgate Common and an Osprey at Belvide, to be followed by another at Aqualate on the 9th. High pressure persisted for the next week with plenty of sunshine but with a widespread ground frost on most nights and an air frost on a few. More migrants arrived with Redstart at Bidford-on-Avon and Sedge Warbler at Seeswood on the 11th, to be followed by a more widespread arrival the next day. The first Pied Flycatcher was seen at Guy’s Cliffe on the 12th and a Marsh Harrier at Brandon, Lesser Whitethroat at Ingestre and Reed Warbler at Doxey on the 13th. There was a widespread arrival of Grasshopper Warblers on the 14th while the first Wood Warbler was seen at the Stepping Stones on Cannock Chase and two Avocets called at Blithfield on the 15th. High pressure maintained the dry, settled theme with again temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius and little or no rainfall at all. The 17th saw a Marsh Harrier at Brandon, a Black Tern at Draycote, a “Channel” Wagtail at Belvide and the first Swift at Chasewater – though there was a widespread arrival the next day. The last Bramblings of the winter were seen on the 20th at Hanchurch and Bushton while the first Whinchats were seen on the 21st at Four Ashes and Gailey and more widely the following day. A reduction in high pressure from the 22nd brought useful rain to some areas and this perhaps was responsible for an influx of 35 Northern Wheatears at Berry Hill on the 24th which rose to 62 on the 25th with 14 at Blithfield and 25 at Silverdale Colliery. They were accompanied by eight Whinchats at Berry Hill, four at Black Bank and three at Drayton Basset Pits. High pressure returned on the 26th and it remained mostly dry for the rest of the month but with south-easterly winds towards the end. The 26th saw a male Garganey at Blithfield, two Little Terns at Marsh Lane NR and the first Nightingale at Strensham. A flock of five Black Terns was seen at Draycote and a respectable flock of 26 Bar-tailed Godwits at Upper Bittell on the 28th and the first Spotted Flycatchers at Tittesworth and Kemerton on the 29th. A passage of 87 Arctic Terns passed through Draycote and 20 through Alvecote on the 30th, coinciding with the south-easterly winds.

After the superb April weather May was a wet month with some areas setting new rainfall records! Temperatures were generally above average, despite sunshine amounts below normal. However, the month started as the last ended, with dry conditions. A Hoopoe was found at Upton Warren and a Marsh Harrier passed over Grimley on the 1st. A Stone Curlew remained at Marsh Lane NR from the 3rd to 5th. The 4th saw another Marsh Harrier at Marsh Lane NR, six Sandwich Terns at Draycote and 14 Arctic Terns at Blithfield. A Spoonbill was seen at Drayton Basset Pits on the 5th and two Black-necked

8 Grebes at Blithfield. Low pressure then set in on the 6th and remained for the next two weeks bringing showers and some heavy periods of rain – neighbouring reporting 60mm on the 13th. On the 11th a Honey-buzzard passed over Earlswood Lakes and an Osprey was seen at British Camp. The 12th saw an adult Gannet at Belbroughton, another Marsh Harrier at Marsh Lane NR and the last Redwing at Seven Springs, while the last Fieldfare of the winter was at Berry Hill on the 13th. The heavy rain of the 13th brought a fall of chats on the 14th with 38 Northern Wheatears and eight Greenland Wheatears at Berry Hill, 21 Northern and three Greenland Wheatears at Dunstall Park, 10 Northern Wheatears at Crossplains; six Greenland Wheatears at Silverdale; 14 Whinchats in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area, seven at Netherton Hill, seven at Belvide and five at Berry Hill. Two Spoonbills circled over Brandon on the 17th while a late immature Iceland Gull was found at Kinsham and Greenland Wheatears at Silverdale and Berry Hill. One of the highlights of the year was undoubtedly Staffordshire’s first Great Reed Warbler which was found at Barton GP on the 20th. The weather continued showery for much of the rest of the month with cold northerly winds and heavy showers towards the end. Seven Common Scoters dropped in at Bartley Reservoir on the 23rd while a Quail was heard at Wimblebury on the 24th. The 28th saw three male Garganeys at Netherton Reservoir and, at Upton Warren, another spring gem – a superb Bee-eater. A Ring-necked Duck arrived at Blithfield on the 30th and was seen sporadically to September 23rd, while Quail were seen at Longdon Marsh and Pedmore.

Although June started relatively dry with only scattered showers, it became increasingly unsettled with a sustained spell of heavy rain on the 24th/25th bringing widespread flooding. The month began with showers but it was warm, with Pershore reaching 26°C on the 9th. Quail continued to be found with birds at Long Eaton on the 3rd and Caltonmoor on the 10th. From the 13th a spell of heavy and thundery rain pushed north with heavy and thundery showers developing each day, giving some very high totals in places, with Edgbaston reporting 70 mm in 12 hours on the 15th. It was very warm and humid at first, but it became much cooler as winds turned more northerly. The 15th saw a Squacco Heron near to Upton-on-Severn, a Greater Scaup at Dunstall Park, a Little Stint at Blithfield and a Spoonbill, Red-necked Phalarope and an Osprey at Upton Warren. A Quail and a Marsh Harrier were seen at Fenny Compton on the 17th while five Common Scoter called at Draycote and four at Tittesworth on the 18th. A slow-moving depression tracked north-east across the Region giving some very heavy showers with flooding. This heralded a sustained period of very heavy rain giving rise to severe flooding, especially in parts of Worcestershire. A Great White Egret was found at Tamworth and six Bar-tailed Godwits at Barton GP on the 26th, two Black-necked Grebes at Belvide on the 27th and a first- summer Black-throated Diver arrived at Draycote on the 28th and remained until September 15th. Up to 32 pairs of Wood Lark were found breeding on Cannock Chase during the month.

July was again an unsettled month with maximum temperatures below average but with rainfall well above, courtesy of a low pressure over the British Isles for much of the month. There were some torrential downpours on the 3rd with localised flooding. An Osprey arrived at Blithfield on the 1st and remained until the 27th. Six Common Scoters were seen at Tittesworth on the 4th while a Quail was heard at Grimley on the 7th. An Avocet at Whitemoor Haye on the 8th was followed by a Honey-buzzard over Moreton Morrell on the 9th and a Long-eared Owl at Belvide from the 10th to August 25th. There were two

9 adult Little Terns at Earlswood on the 13th and a Black-necked Grebe at Chasewater on the 14th. The 20th saw exceptional rainfall with Pershore recording 120.8 mm of rainfall in a day (157.4 mm in the period 19-20th) and with several other sites recording in excess of 100 mm, much of this rain falling in a fairly short period. This, no doubt, forced down the Spotted Sandpiper at Draycote. The next few days brought serious flooding to parts of the Severn Valley. On the 21st a female Goosander was seen at Doxey Marshes with 11 ducklings and a Black-necked Grebe at Gailey. A Long-eared Owl was at Ladywalk on the 24th and nine Mediterranean Gulls at Draycote on the 25th. The last few days of the month brought a change in the weather with high pressure building from the west giving rise to a few dry and sunny days for most places – summer at last! Common Scoter were reported from Belvide on the 29th and Tittesworth on the 30th.

Summer was short-lived! August was largely settled at first but became more unsettled mid-month. It was the coldest August for over 10 years with rainfall 50% above normal. The month began rather bright before rain passed southwards on the 2nd with warm weather arriving on the 3rd. Marsh Harriers were seen at Marsh Lane NR, Upton Warren, Belvide and Aqualate – where an Osprey was also seen. Post-breeding Wood Warblers are generally hard to find but there was one at Doxey on the 5th. The fine weather gave way to thundery showers on the 6th and 7th, up to 70mm in places, before becoming warm again, only to give way to more showers on 12th/13th. Up to 10 Little Egrets were seen at Grimley New Workings on the 12th – a sign of the increasing numbers of this species in our Region. A Spotted Redshank remained at Coley Brook Marsh from the 14th-15th. More showers spread up from the south, some thundery; Alvechurch recorded 41mm in seven hours. Moderate rain pushed eastwards on the 18th to be followed by showers on the 19th and 20th before giving way to sunny and warm weather. A Slavonian Grebe arrived at Chasewater on the 17th and remained to September 29th while a Sandwich Tern was seen at Blithfield. The showers probably forced down a record 84 Common Terns at Belvide on the 18th and two adult Kittiwakes at Blithfield on the 19th. The 21st saw three Red-crested Pochard at Gailey and a Great White Egret at Blithfield. A first-winter Kittiwake was at Chasewater on the 22nd. With high pressure building on the 24th, a period of warm, settled weather ensued. A Black-necked Grebe was seen at Belvide and two Sandwich Terns at Alvecote and at Upton Warren on the 28th while three immature Black-necked Grebes were at Blithfield and a Marsh Harrier at Brandon on the 29th.

The first half of September was often fine and dry; a welcome relief from July and August! It became more unsettled mid-month before turning colder. The month started with a weak front passing over in a westerly air stream to be followed by high pressure and fine and settled conditions and temperatures in the low 20s Celsius. Four Red-crested Pochard were on Ladywalk on the 1st while a Short-eared Owl was seen at Defford and the last Grasshopper Warbler was recorded at Sandwell Valley on the 4th. On the 8th a Great White Egret was seen at Grimley. A cold front moved south on the 10th bringing rain to many parts before pressure built and the fine weather was restored. Two Spotted Redshanks were at Upton Warren on the 12th while on the 13th, a Wryneck was seen in a garden at Stoke Prior and a very early Fieldfare at Maxstoke. A series of bands of rain with warmer interludes dominated for the next week. An Osprey passed over Westport Lake on the 14th, a Sandwich Tern was seen at Blithfield on the 15th and the last Garden Warbler of the year was noted at Coton on the 16th. A small passage of Pink-footed Geese took place on the 17th/18th with 30 over Waterfall and 14 over Blithfield. A

10 Wryneck was seen in a Snitterflield garden on the 17th and a Firecrest along Dowles Brook on the 21st. The 22nd saw more departing migrants with the last Spotted Flycatchers at Bittell and Berry Hill and last Tree Pipit at Berkeley Park, while Doxey had a Great White Egret and Upton Warren a Wilson’s Phalarope on the 23rd and a Hen Harrier took up residence at Boarsgrove, remaining until October 21st. A particularly vigorous cold front brought gusts of around 60mph on the 24th and a mini tornado damaged houses in Nuneaton while Edgbaston had 14mm rain in an hour. An Osprey passed over Gwen Finch, A Grey Phalarope visited Shustoke and two Spotted Redshanks were seen at Longdon Marsh on the 24th while a Dotterel was seen at Bobbington and the last Swift was recorded at Draycote on the 25th. The wind turned north-westerly on the 25th and a cold north to north-easterly developed for a time and maximum temperatures were well below average on the 26th. More Pink-footed Geese passed through with 50 over Cheadle and 21 over Belvide on the 26th and 52 over Berry Hill and 200 over Tittesworth on the 27th. An Arctic Skua arrived on the north-westerlies at Draycote on the 26th while the first Redwing was found at Swift Valley CP. Rain spread south-west on the 28th, but the month ended on a drier note and with lighter winds. On the 27th an immature Gannet was seen at Upton Warren and a Red-breasted Merganser at Draycote while on the 28th Draycote had 40 Arctic Terns and on the 29th Belvide had three Sandwich Terns. The last Lesser Whitethroat was found at Knightcote on the 29th while the 30th saw the last Sand Martins at Belvide and Salford Priors, the last Whinchat at Uttoxeter Quarry and first Bramblings were noted at a number of sites.

October was generally very quiet with high pressure close by for much of the month. However, there were brief spells of more unsettled weather that brought some locally heavy rain. Widespread rain on the 3rd gave way to dry weather as high pressure built but it was quite cloudy. Two immature Gannets were seen at Shustoke and a Great White Egret at Upton Warren on the 1st. A Great Northern Diver and a Grey Phalarope called in at Draycote and the first Jack Snipe was seen at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 2nd while Rock Pipits were seen at Bittell and Sandwell Valley and another Grey Phalarope at Earlswood on the 3rd and Belvide on the 5th. The last Whitethroat was seen at Fenny Compton and last Willow Warbler at Bermuda on the 3rd and the last Little Ringed Plover at Charlecote GP on the 4th.. There was another small passage of Pink-footed Geese on the 5th with 26 over Cross Hayes and 125 over Black Bank, while a Great Grey Shrike was noted at Blithfield and a Great White Egret at Kites Hardwick. The 7th saw another Great White Egret at Baswich, a Lapland Bunting and a Richard’s Pipit at Grimley and the last Cuckoo at Kinwalsey, last Sedge Warbler at Salford Priors and last Reed Warbler at Aqualate. A cold front brought some rain on the 9th but it cleared on the 10th and high pressure returned to give fine, if cloudy conditions. A Pectoral Sandpiper was found at Brandon on the 10th while four Whooper Swans at Aqualate on the 11th were possibly those seen at Belvide earlier. An immature Sabine’s Gull and the last Yellow Wagtail were seen at Bittell on the 13th. On the 14th the first Water Pipit of the winter was found at Doxey, a record 94 Common Snipe at Tittesworth and Rock Pipits at Blithfield and Belvide. Rain spread southwards on the 15th leaving mist with drizzle, though mild conditions. A Hen Harrier was seen at Hockley Heath on the 15th and 16 Pink-footed Geese at Belvide, a Great Grey Shrike at Defford airfield and a Black Redstart at Kempsey on the 16th. Three Whooper Swans at Alrewas on the 17th moved to Whitemoor Haye while five were seen at Tittesworth on the 18th. High pressure reasserted itself and it was fine with overnight frosts for a few days before cloud returned

11 and it remained quiet with light winds. Leach’s Petrels were seen at Belvide on the 18th and Draycote on the 19th when a Grey Phalarope arrived at Bartley and Great Grey Shrike arrived in Sherbrook Valley to remain until year’s end. Another Great Grey Shrike arrived on Revidge on the 20th to remain, again, to the year’s end. The 21st saw the last House Martins at Chat Valley and Alrewas. High pressure gave way on the 27th to allow rain, some heavy, to pass over the Region. It became drier towards the end of the month. A late Barn Swallow was seen at Bittell and a Grey Phalarope at Blithfield on the 27th while a very late Whinchat was found at Elkstones on the 28th. The 29th saw a small easterly movement of Pink-footed Geese with 80 over Crossplains and 70 over Swallow Moss. It also saw the last Hobby of the year at Chasewater and last Redstart at Upton Warren. A Short-eared Owl was seen at Berry Hill and a Snow Bunting on North Hill on the 30th while the last Northern Wheatear was found in the Sherbrook Valley on the 31st. Up to five Hen Harriers wintered on Swallow Moss to the end of the year.

November began with high pressure and, although there were some chilly nights in the first week, it was generally too mild for frost. An adult Whooper Swan at Marsh Lane NR on the 3rd was only the second record for the site. On the 4th, 50 Pink-footed Geese flew eastwards over Swallow Moss, a Short-eared Owl was seen at Hanchurch and two Water Pipits at Blithfield. The 5th saw the last Ring Ouzel at Sandwell Valley, a Pectoral Sandpiper at Belvide and two Firecrests at Dunstall cricket ground. From the 8th there was a more unsettled spell of weather with fronts and rain, followed by showers, from time to time. It was often windy, with northerly winds quite frequent in this period, temperatures were lower. A Grey Phalarope was at Upton Warren on the 8th while Kittiwakes were seen on the 9th at Frankley and at Grimley, where a Water Pipit remained to the year’s end. More Kittiwakes were seen on the 10th at Blithfield and Westport Lake. On the 11th two Grey Phalaropes were seen at Brandon while a Pomarine Skua seen at Chasewater on the 12th remained to the 15th. A Snow Bunting was found on Worcestershire Beacon on the 13th and 10 Common Scoters at Draycote on the 14th. High pressure on the 15th brought fog and frost by night with temperatures below –5°C in parts. Immature Glaucous Gulls were seen at Draycote and Chasewater on the 15th, with an immature Iceland Gull at Draycote on the 16th. Eight Whooper Swans at Bittell on the 17th remained on the River Teme for a week. Low pressure returned on the 18th with colder air turning to snow in parts. This was followed by rain, often heavy and thundery with winds turning more northerly by the 23rd. On the 18th there was a Red-breasted Merganser at Blithfield while three Kittiwakes circled Dartmouth Park and a Red Knot was at Bredon’s Hardwick on the 19th. A Common Redpoll was at Belvide on the 19th and two Firecrests at Alvecote on the 21st to the year’s end. Four Wood Larks were at Bittell on the 21st and a Long-eared Owl at Brandon on the 23rd. Winds then turned more westerly and temperatures rose to be followed by a passage of fronts giving rain in parts. On the 25th 60 Pink-footed Geese passed over Tittesworth, a second-winter Glaucous Gull was found at Chasewater and three late Little Stints at Blithfield. A Great Northern Diver was at Blithfield on the 26th and two Wood Larks at Norchard. A male Lesser Scaup at Draycote on the 27th remained to the year’s end while an immature Glaucous Gull was seen at Dosthill on the 28th.

December was divided into an unsettled period for about the first third of the month, followed by a generally anticyclonic spell then further unsettled weather for the remainder of the month. The first ten days were very unsettled with frequently wet and windy spells.

12 A Great Northern Diver at Chasewater on the 1st was joined by another on the 9th, both remaining to the year’s end. A first-winter Glaucous Gull was also at Chasewater, two Firecrests at Hanchurch and the year’s only Waxwing at . A Little Auk was found dead at Salford Priors on the 2nd while a Slavonian Grebe at Blithfield remained to the year’s end as did a Firecrest at Earlswood. Remarkably, a Northern Wheatear remained at British Camp from 3rd to 10th! Short-eared Owls were seen at Belvide and Uttoxeter Quarry on the 9th. On the 10th there were three Common Redpolls at Hanchurch, a Firecrest at Lighthorne Quarry, a Water Pipit at Blithfield and immature Glaucous Gull at Dosthill. On the 11th high pressure became established giving rise to a dry spell, often quite sunny but with frosts at night. A second-winter Iceland Gull was at Bartley on the 15th while a flock of 90 Mandarins at Brookleys Lake on the 16th was a Staffordshire record. Immature Glaucous and Iceland Gulls were noted on the 16th at Chasewater and Alvecote respectively. On the 18th there were three Short-eared Owls at Priors Hardwick and three Common Redpolls at Belvide. A Dark-bellied Brent Goose was at Church Lawford on the 20th and a Short-eared Owl at Drayton Bassett Pits on the 21st. High pressure moved away allowing Atlantic weather systems to return, bringing a resumption of the often wet and windy weather, but with some drier and clearer conditions between. A band of rain moved through on Christmas Day, and this was followed by a band of heavy showers. The month ended with cloudy and sometimes wet weather although winds were quite light. Iceland Gulls were seen at Copmere and Belvide on the 22nd. Firecrests were seen at Alvecote (three) on the 22nd and New Fallings Coppice on the 24th. Immature Glaucous Gulls were seen at Chasewater on the 25th and Throckmorton Tip on the 26th. Thirty Pink-footed Geese were at Stonebridge on the 27th and a Rock Pipit at Draycote on the 29th, while two Firecrests at Blake Mill plantation ended the year.

With thanks to the Meteorological Office’s Weather Log.

David W. Emley

13 Systematic List

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

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

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

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

The following status categories have been used:

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

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

14 Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 237–6917405147433615 Coton 17 27 30 41 136 185 170 152 109 – 130 67 Draycote 3–132–59513424103 Bredonʼs Hardwick 15 10 235–21699212022 Grimley 4459–64158966 Pirton Pool 3333101015104136 Gwen Finch Wetland 129246414118887 Kinsham Lake 252622225367 Westwood Pool 4423378611153238 Upton Warren 229663–57549 Alrewas 7 82 54 3 13 – 12 25 28 18 19 109 Aqualate –25159242832619093 Barton GP 1212251793249–––––– Belvide 13 7 2 22 45 89 114 117 150 – 40 5 Blithfield –––534110130361211611502 Borrowpit Lake 22 31 34 30 28 45 52 14 14 12 23 31 Chasewater 33 5 38 – – 25 26 48 3 31 30 13 Copmere 44321011121110142340 Croxall NR 34 20 37 17 61 38 27 185772 Doxey Marshes 8 5 13 10 14 18 18 20 23 18 16 9 Drayton Bassett Pits–––23021053–––– Elford Gravel Pits 44 30 33 19 68 23 4 13 11 8 64 108 River Sow Meadows 11 1378442257–7 River Tame/Anker 30 40 81 52 61 37 42 48 31 26 35 28 Westport Lake 4 10 12 11 21 30 23 19 13 10 10 16 Whitemoor Haye 300 177 164 7 48 18 75 106 10 – 150 157 Marsh Lane 39 33 32 26 12 10 10 6 6 21 31 22 WeBS 2006 523 715 587 591 462 630 624 636 582 643 656 432 WeBS 2007 557 514 684 578 644 660 839 843 650 523 859 776 Warks It was generally a poor breeding season, with some nests or broods lost in the summer floods and others to fox predation. Breeding pairs were reported from: Alvecote, Brandon (three), Charlecote Park, Compton Verney, Coton, Dosthill area (two), Draycote, Earlswood Lakes (two), Farnborough Park, Great Alne, Ladywalk, Lower Radbourn, Marlcliff (River Avon), Napton Res, Newbold Quarry, Newbold Revel, Salford Priors GP (three), Shustoke, Stoneton Moat, Stubbs Pool (Nuneaton), Studley Castle, Swift Valley CP and Whittleford Park. Away from tabulated sites, maxima included 22 by the River Blythe at Coleshill on January 15th, at least 40 in fields by the River Avon at Church Lawford during January-February, 31 on floodwater between Alveston and Charlecote on March 6th, and up to 37 on Hall Pool, Packington Park during November. Worcs Nesting pairs were reported from Bittell Reservoir, Bredon’s Hardwick, Ryall Pits and Upton Warren (two). Counts made away from the tabulated localities included 37 at Arrow Valley Lake on January 6th, Longdon Marsh held six on 13th and four on March 25th, 88 on the in Worcester on February 7th, 15 at Bittell Reservoirs on July 19th and 13 on the canal at on December 4th. Staffs The earliest nesting attempt occurred at Tixall on March 7th, but was unsuccess - ful. Successful breeding reports (number of cygnets in brackets) came from Aqualate (seven), Blake Hall Fishery (two), Chasewater (two, four), Coldmeece (one), Colwich (three), Croxall (four), Dosthill (four), Doxey Marshes five pairs attempted nesting (two, five, six), Drayton Bassett Pits (seven), Ingestre (five), Kettlebrook Lake (three),

15 (four), Stony Delph (three), Tameside NR (six), Westport (two, four) and Woodmill (five). Pairs attempted to breed at (failed or outcome unknown) at Baswich (two pairs), Byrkley Park, Greenway Bank, Rollaston Park and Stone. W Mid The only breeding records received involved pairs at Bradnock’s Marsh, Dudley No.2 Canal at Primrose Bridge, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane (two), Perry Hall Park, Sandwell Valley, Walsall Arboretum and West Bromwich. Birds were also noted at Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Bumble Hole, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Knowle, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton Reservoir, Park Lime Pits, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Winterbourne, Witton Lakes and Wyndley Pool.

2006 Addendum Warks Coombe Abbey attracted exceptionally high numbers, with maxima of 68 on January 16th and 75 on October 8th.

Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus Frequent, though declining winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks Three of the five reports came typically from Draycote, with 17 in flight on February 8th, four over on October 20th and two adults on December 11th RCM et al. The other two refer to a late adult at Packington Fishery on April 10th NDG and four adults flying east at Napton Res on November 23rd TMa. Worcs All sightings came during the first winter period with four, including two juveniles, seen flying south over Gwen Finch Wetland on January 5th RAPr, whilst four adults were at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 5th RAPr and three adults were noted flying south over Lower Moor on 15th RAPr. Staffs A slight improvement over 2006, but none were seen in the first half of the year. One visited Belvide on October 20th per SNu, then three at Clay Mills on November 3rd RJa, possibly the same three at Belvide on 15th followed by another six there on December 15th per SNu.

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Herds 45986334 Birds 16 10 41 44 17 15 10 13

W Mid An adult at Marsh Lane NR on October 21st was the third record for the site SHa.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce or uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also a recent feral visitor. Warks Three adults were a fine sight on a lagoon at Salford Priors GP on January 21st JJB, while possibly the same trio visited Draycote on 24th RBR et al. An adult on Hall Pool in Packington Park on November 6th–7th NPB had previously been at Marsh Lane NR (West Mids), while possibly the same bird was at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on 10th NDBC. Worcs An adult seen flying south over Kempsey STW on January 1st AWa, DREW was relocated at Upton-upon-Severn on 5th SMW et al. where it remained until 27th. An adult was also noted at Bittell Reservoirs on March 24th TMH et al, while during the second winter period, a herd of eight, including five juveniles discovered at Bittell Reservoirs on November 17th GFe et al. made a visit to Upton Warren the following day and then settled in riverside fields along the River Teme at Bransford Bridge from 19th–23rd MSm et al.

16 Staffs On January 1st one was at Elford while two at Whitemoor Haye from last year stayed until March 4th, these also being seen at Alrewas on March 3rd. On the 29th at Chasewater, two briefly stayed from 12:50hrs to 13:10hrs. In February, 27 were at Blithfield on the 3rd and two on the 28th. During March there were two at Blithfield on the 9th while the last record for the first winter period was of 26 at Knypersley Reservoir on the 24th. In October four were seen at Aqualate on the 11th with probably the same four at Belvide on the 17th, five were at Tittesworth on the 18th and two at Blithfield on the 28th. In November two seen at Clay Mills on the 3rd remained until 17th. A sub-adult flew over Black Bank (Newcastle) on the 6th, four visited Belvide on 9th and six stayed at Essington Quarry from 10th–28th with two remaining until December 1st. Three at Alrewas on the 17th moved to Whitemoor Haye from the 22nd–25th with two staying there until the year end, these were also seen at Croxall on a couple of occasions. December Whooper Swan, Marsh Lane NR, Steve Seal records began on the 1st with one at Belvide and continued with three at Clay Mills on the 18th. W Mid An adult at Marsh Lane NR on November 3rd was the second record for the site SEH, MJI, GRo.

Whooper Swan X Mute Swan Warks The usual hybrid remained all year at Alvecote, while another was at Coton on June 18th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, at least one bird was seen intermittently through the year.

Wild Swans Worcs Two flew over Clifton on March 25th AHa, BHa.

Bean Goose Anser fabalis Rare winter visitor (7/10). W Mid An adult of the race rossicus – Tundra Bean Goose – at Marsh Lane NR for ten minutes on March 9th was the first record for the site per NPB and the first for the county since one at Pelsall (which at the time was in Staffs) prior to 1908.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor to Staffs, but normally rare further south. Also a scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks Two skeins of 250 and 68 flew over Ladywalk on January 24th PSo et al., a county record. One nearby at Whitacre Heath NR on January 29th AJo may have dropped out from one of these flocks, while another singleton flew north-east at Salford Priors GP on April 15th JJB. In the autumn, a single bird at Ladywalk on September 25th was

17 followed by a party of ten in flight there on 26th per SLC, while a skein of 30 flew south up the River Blythe at Stonebridge on December 27th JFCJ. Worcs Six were noted flying south-east over Malvern Link on October 1st MWCW, whilst a mobile adult was in the Lower Moor area from December 17th until the year end RAPr et al. Staffs In January one at Tittesworth from 7th–21st might have been a feral bird. The first two skeins, totalling 70, were seen over Cheadle on January 14th. Mirroring the major movement of 2005, skeins began moving in a north-westerly or westerly direction on January 22nd, with 80 over Little Aston and a considerable, but uncounted, number over Westport. The following day, the 23rd, skeins of 70 and 240 were seen over Apedale and Keele University at 13:40hrs and on the 24th 150 passed over Westport at 16:00hrs. The peak movement (as in 2005) occurred on the 25th with reports of 1000 over Berry Hill Fields, 2000 over the Potteries between 9:00 and 11:30hrs and 80 over Newcastle. On the 30th a small skein of 30 flew over Trent Vale (Stoke). The only other record in the first winter period was in February when 200 flew over Tittesworth on the 2nd. Single summering or feral birds were reported from Blithfield and Tittesworth while two at Belvide. The first records of the second winter period occurred in September when 30 flew west over Waterfall on the 17th. The single feral bird at Blithfield was joined for the day by 14 on the 18th. On the 26th 50 flew ESE over Cheadle, 21 at Belvide included three juveniles while on the 27th ,52 flew over Berry Hill Fields and 200 over Tittesworth. In October on the 5th, 26 flew west over Cross Hayes and two skeins of 25 and 100 flew north-west over Black Bank. On the 6th, 16 flew north-west over Chasewater at 17:50hrs and on the 13th, 10 flew west on a foggy afternoon over Waterfall. On the 29th, 80 flew east turning to north-east as they passed over Crossplains while on the 30th, 70 flew east over Swallow Moss. During November 50 flew east over Swallow Moss on the 4th, on the 14th, at Croxall, two skeins of 25 trailing each other flew over and 60 flew over Tittesworth on the 25th. The only December record was the long staying bird at Blithfield, present since June. W Mid A juvenile was noted at Marsh Lane NR on January 27th and 28th, and February 12th, 14th and 28th REH, SHa, MJI et al. Presumably a different bird was present on April 8th per NPB. These were the first records for the site. Nearby, two flocks flew southwards over Stonebridge Island on December 27th per NPB.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks There were surprisingly no confirmed reports of the nominate race. Worcs During February at least one was heard calling over Redditch after dark on 20th REH and a skein of c.80 was seen heading north north-east at Buckland on 26th RAPr. Staffs The only record this year was of an adult at Blithfield from December 13th–16th PDH.

Greenland White-fronted Goose Warks A wary adult on fields in the Lea Marston/Whitacre Heath area from January 9th–14th ARD, JFin et al., was the first record for the county of this subspecies.

18 Greylag Goose Anser anser Frequent feral resident, mainly to north Warks but increasing and spreading elsewhere.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 126 129 25 56 29 27 72 147 122 198 111 148 Charlecote 40 4 19 10 12 18 127 155 – 42 – – Coombe Abbey 155 – – 69 93 143 84 75 97 123 151 93 Edstone 85374–5––710065–42 Morton Bagot –5–62––56697074– Arrow Valley North –––11–3––––3 Bittell Reservoirs ––34–––––6–– Bredonʼs Hardwick 76 52 498–4548214348100 Grimley ––19–––––––– Pirton Pool ––269 11–––– Holt Prairies 2––––––––––– Kinsham Lake 85 7 23 10 9 16 25 1 71 195 93 111 Lower Moor 52 74 39 32 24 8 72 75 81 86 100 84 Throckmorton Lagoons –2––4––8790–6587 Upton Warren ––247––––3–– Aqualate 11–2–11111219 Belvide 8715069–101201481642140138 Blithfield 6860–2–31001511015310398 Brookleys Lake 110–––7–6–100––– Branston GP –3–2––––12618877– Byrkley Park ––––1212––120––– Chillington Lake – 76 62 34 40 73–––––– Denstone Hall – – 12––––8772105–– Drayton Bassett Pits1––821245104100––– Elford Gravel Pits 9 4 12 12 6 5 – 26 36 40 25 20 Whitemoor Haye –42222525–38–5015 Dunstall Park –12144121––– Marsh Lane 207 150 5 17 40 10 240 450 408 114 264 220 WeBS 2006 187 149 143 109 107 256 337 286 476 301 602 536 WeBS 2007 88 274 188 188 207 316 295 499 426 820 444 245

Warks Broods were noted at Brandon (five), Charlecote GP (two), Compton Verney (two), Kingsbury and Park (two). There were few counts this year from the Tame Valley, the largest comprising 220 at Kingsbury on September 17th. Maxima from other areas included 33 at Abbots Salford on February 25th, 31 at Great Alne on April 19th, 59 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th, 113 in pasture at Bearley on November 25th, 41 at Seeswood Pool on December 11th and 45 at Wootton Pool on 30th. Worcs Now well established as a breeding species in the south of the county, with post- breeding flocks of over 100 birds regularly encountered. Successful breeding pairs were recorded at Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake, where two pairs produced broods of four and five, three pairs reared 14 young at Lower Moor, whilst a pair nested at Pirton Pool, two pairs nested at Throckmorton Lagoons and a pair nested at Upton Warren, being the first such record for the reserve. Away from the tabulated localities, 36 were noted at Arrow Valley Lake on January 30th, one at Birtsmorton Pools on March 25th, one at Westwood Pool on June 16th, five flew over Stoke Bliss on September 25th and four visited West - wood Pool on October 25th. Staffs This year breeding records were received from Byrkley Park where six broods produced a total of 21 goslings, Brookleys Lake with two broods of four and five and Drayton Bassett Pits with two broods of three and five. Significant records not in the tabulated list include 150 at Coal Brook (Hales) on February 11th, 130 at Millmeece on

19 October 14th, 66 at Quixhill on February 27th, 50 at Blake Hall Fishery on March 25th, and 29 at Branston GP on January 25th. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Dunstall Park and Marsh Lane NR, but no breeding attempts were made. Elsewhere, three were seen at Netherton Reservoir on April 26th, 64 were at Berkswell on December 26th and birds were also noted at Blythe Valley CP. 2006 Addenda Warks There were peaks at Coombe Abbey of 94 on July 17th and 95 on November 19th. Greylag Goose X Canada Goose Warks Up to three were present at Coombe Abbey from January-September, with one or two also during the early months in the Lea Marston-Whitacre Heath area and at Abbots Salford. A single bird at Brandon during April and May was apparently paired to a Canada Goose, and another was there during December. Worcs An individual was noted between March 12th and December 26th at the following sites: Bredon’s Hardwick, Chadbury, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Strensham and Throckmorton. Greylag Goose X Bar-headed Goose Warks One at Morton Bagot on September 5th. Worcs One at Lower Moor on February 17th. Grey Geese sp. Warks A skein of about 70 flying high to the west at Lighthorne Quarry on October 27th were either Whitefronts or Pinkfeet. A probable Pinkfoot flew through Draycote on November 6th. Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis Common and increasing feral resident. Fairly common breeding species

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 400 322 180 110 85 120 170 420 100 366 245 270 Brandon 264 166 92 83 63 100 102 97 249 296 34 70 Charlecote/ 570 250 125 30 38 12 54 44 57 560 310 302 Coombe Abbey 200 – – 23 51 79 65 83 109 128 61 172 Coton/Lea Marston 99 254 23 – 38 79 28 156 200 – – 59 Draycote 131 65 37 31 11 – 315 380 319 35 92 193 Edstone 517151011264610236041045 Kingsbury 330–––90245––170––176 Bittell Reservoirs 89 51 19 19 – 104 94 163 142 42 38 – Bredonʼs Hardwick 114 53 27 28 – 17 – 2 278 18 224 425 Pirton Pool 94647353377857479–– Grimley 600 512 120 48 – 72 89 90 168 250 – 380 Gwen Finch Wetland 64 52 57 19 10 20 7 5 – 32 51 50 Kinsham Lake 16 27 22 28 14 12 14 16 128 350 214 – Upton Warren 88 112 55 18 24 15 – 245 750 750 – 170 Westwood Pool 430 2 2 10 20 67 71 2 167 470 30 373 Alrewas 26 – – 28–––80100––– Aqualate 354 90 23 73 42 155 155 92 107 266 6 322 Barton GP 189 152 159 118 174 268 – 320 287 – 112 – Belvide 125 150 52 20 20 105 115 70 530 80 133 149 Blithfield 60320––––2001300–101021 Borrowpit Lake 120 124 43 60 82 110 110 105 15 48 66 58

20 JFMAMJ JASOND Chasewater 72 53 27 – 18 50 73 103 153 91 40 38 Copmere – 3 27 7 11 11 21 120 – 115 345 20 Croxall NR 665 45 174 46 58 356 160 170 – 100 450 41 Croxden Quarry ––––2220–12057––– Doxey Marshes 802 520 425 187 109 200 800 520 900 458 600 692 Elford Gravel Pits 119 31 46 53 65 47 22 168 200 185 242 250 Kings Bromley GP 137 125 104 130 117 473–––––– Rickerscote 200105–––––––––175 River Sow Baswich303126––––11145099–66 Tameside NR 83 33 61 55 55 60 54 70 – 112 10 74 Tittesworth 165 143 147 185 37 546 350 116 166 60 210 193 Tixall Bridge ––––––6177–959843 Westport Lake 20136–––192253––––– Whitemoor Haye – 240 85 25 11 118 232 2 206 – 145 140 Dunstall Park 234 246 p p 59 p 108 189 350 391 p 68 Marsh Lane 47 50 7 14 6 6 15 137 57 66 36 39 Netherton Reservoir28664831–3–122 Sandwell Valley 27 7 16 70 100 182 200 150 100 100 80 90 WeBS 2006 3252 3035 2070 1693 1606 3160 2890 3805 2999 3590 2625 2770 WeBS 2007 3955 3222 2432 1802 1261 3363 3410 3653 5055 4218 3121 3863

Warks Brood counts were generally on the low side, but included at least seven at Brandon, three at Draycote, five at Lapworth Park, four at Ladywalk and six at Salford Priors GP. Away from tabulated sites maxima included 129 at Seeswood Pool on February 11th, 275 on the Avon floods at Alveston on March 6th, 200 at Longbridge on October 9th, 165 at Salford Priors GP on 14th, and 112 at Wootton Wawen on 31st. Worcs A common breeding species throughout the county. Notable counts made away from the tabulated localities comprised 113 at Arrow Valley Lake on January 13th and 114 on Arrow Valley Golf Course the next day, whilst the latter site held 95 on February 11th. 261 were at Lower Moor on August 14th and 326 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 26th. Staffs Breeding records came from (number of goslings in brackets), Aqualate (14), Belvide (48), Chasewater (one), Coldmeece (three), Copmere (three), Croxdon (nine), Doxey Marshes 32 pairs attempted breeding (19), Drayton Bassett Pits (seven), Fauld on the River Dove (five), Tameside NR (19) and Tixall Bridge (seven). The Fauld breeding record was a first for this site. Maximum untabulated counts include 250 at Radford Meadows on December 9th, 200 on the River Dove at Fauld on November 22nd, 135 at Rudyard Lake on September 7th, 105 at Weston Jones South on November 11th and 140 at Wolseley Bridge on February 17th. The December count at Blithfield of 1021, which took place on the 14th, is a site record. W Mid Birds were noted during the breeding season at Aldridge, Mainline Canal, Bumble Hole, Chadwick End, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Minworth STW, Netherton Reservoir, Reedswood Park, Sceptre Park, Smestow Valley, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Winterbourne and Witton Lakes. The count of 137 at Marsh Lane NR appears to be the highest site total since 2002. Other high counts involved 188 birds at Stubbers Green on August 23rd and 265 on September 1st, and 130 at Smethwick Hall Park on December 16th. Smaller numbers of birds were also seen at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Brueton Park, The Leasowes, Park Lime Pits, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park and Wyndley Pool.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bredonʼs Hardwick – 1 1 1311–18111 Blithfield ––––1––4141––– Croxall NR 1––––676–––– Doxey Marshes –12633––4993210 Whitemoor Haye 1415–––––––––– Warks All records presumably involved feral birds. Up to two were again noted at Brandon all year, with three on June 4th. Singles noted at nearby Coombe Abbey in most months presumably involved the same birds. Elsewhere more erratic sightings involved singles at Draycote on January 2nd, Coton on February 9th and 19th, Chesterton on 21st, Cryfield from March 1st–5th and at Abbots Salford on April 3rd. In May, two were at the latter pool on 1st and two at Charlecote GP on 30th. A flock of 37 (which also contained a Cackling Goose) that visited Alvecote on November 2nd had presumably come from Blithfield (Staffs). Worcs Away from Bredon’s Hardwick (see tabulated sites) a party of 10, seven of which were wearing colour rings, fitted at a locality near St. Neots, Bedfordshire on July 24th 2005, were observed at Kinsham Lake on April 2nd. Grimley New Workings held a pair on 17th, whilst singles frequented Pirton Pool on June 16th, Clifton Pits on September 2nd, Throckmorton Lagoons on 29th, October 2nd and 4th, Kinsham Lake on October 1st and November 9th and Lower Moor on December 21st and 22nd. Staffs Untabulated records include 10 at Acton Trussell on January 30th, one at Ingestre on May 14th, 32 at Denstone on August 8th, 27 at Kings Bromley on the 12th and four at Alrewas on the 4th. W Mid Perhaps the same bird was seen at Fens Pools on January 5th and February 20th. Two birds were present at Bartley Reservoir on February 27th. Barnacle X Canada Goose Warks One was at Draycote from at least July 10th to September 12th. Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Two records were about average. Two dark-bellied birds flew north-east at Abbots Salford on March 25th JJB, and another dark-bellied bird frequented a field near the River Avon between Bretford and Church Lawford during December 20th–24th JFCJ et al. Staffs A dark-bellied bird flew over Croxall NR on January 27th and took up residence at Whitemoor Haye until February 25th MYa. W Mid A dark-bellied bird flew north-westwards over Marsh Lane NR on January 27th. Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Rare feral visitor or escape; rare breeder (9/10). Warks There were October sightings of two at Brandon on 2nd JMR et al. and one at Abbots Salford on 20th BGP. Worcs Bredon’s Hardwick held a singleton on January 7th, 8th, 16th and from 20th–27th, five first-winter birds spent the day at Upton Warren on February 18th, one visited Throckmorton Lagoons on May 26th and August 16th, a pair were at Bredon’s

22 Hardwick on November 10th, 30th, December 21st and 30th and one at Rous Lench on December 15th and 25th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 8978825557–3 Chasewater ––––882222–– At Belvide there were two on May 11th and two on November 9th and 15th with one at Tittesworth on June 19th, another at Branston GP October 2nd and one at Westport from January 25th to February 11th. Two birds flew into JCB North Lake on November 11th and remained until year end – they were not part of the collection. W Mid Two visited Clayhanger on September 29th CMa.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 1428241763–––179 Brandon 244422–––––– Coton/Lea Marston 2544621––––2 Dosthill/Kingsbury 7 137833––––44 Draycote –131–––44–13 Ladywalk 132421––1–22 Salford Priors GP 1122445212–– Bredonʼs Hardwick 18 26 3362––––––15 Grimley 1––22–––1––– Gwen Finch Wetland 645222–––1–6 Kinsham Lake –612223––––– Upton Warren 422494144443 Westwood Pool 2–––1––––––2 Aqualate 6 3 2 11 157––––4– Barton GP 88514254–911–42 Belvide 12244411313–1 Blithfield 211482–34671 Branston GP 51821510128620136 Chasewater –1232––––––6 Croxall 341432––––––2 Drayton Bassett Pits4151515111218111–46 Whitemoor Haye –67261326–––4– Westport 2–1––––5–––– Marsh Lane 568641–2–124 WeBS 2006 204670575526511989 WeBS 2007 2457474766726102687

Warks A pair reared five young at Salford Priors GP, the first successful breeding record in the south-west. In the Tame Valley single pairs each with four young were noted at Kingsbury and Lea Marston. A pair on a new pool at Maxstoke between January 7th and June may have attempted to breed. Otherwise records came from several further sites within the Tame Valley; while in the south-west Abbots Salford Pool had singles on January 1st and February 21st, a pair on odd dates between April and May, and singles again on September 14th and from 27th–October 3rd. Reports outside these areas were typically few, but included a bird on floodwater at Hampton Lucy on January 1st, two at

23 Earlswood Lakes on 4th and a pair on floodwater between Charlecote and Alveston on March 6th. A juvenile was at Toft Farm Lakes on August 30th. Worcs Breeding was confirmed at Longdon Marsh, where a pair and six ducklings were observed on May 15th and June 5th, plus five were hatched at Lower Moor on May 22nd, but were all predated by 25th. Pairs also observed between April and late May at Bittell Reservoir, Eckington Bridge, Lickmoor Wetland, Ryall Pits and Upton Warren, the latter locality holding a maximum of three pairs on May 3rd. Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised two at Lower Moor on January 1st, two at Upton- upon-Severn Upper Ham on 4th, February 4th and March 11th, two at Kempsey Lower Ham on January 25th, one at Bittell Reservoir on 27th, one at Holt on March 6th, two at Lower Moor on 14th and 27th and seven at Longdon Marsh on 25th. A singleton was observed at Lower Moor on December 28th. Staffs Breeding reports this year came from Aqualate, where seven half-grown juveniles were reported in June and Barton GP, where 16 young were seen on May 28th. At Drayton Bassett Pits two young were seen on May 14th but only one was seen the next day, and this too had disappeared by the month’s end. A second brood of nine at the beginning of June was quickly reduced to three by the 12th and all had disappeared by the month’s end. Both pairs had second broods, this time successfully fledging two and five ducklings in September. At Whitemoor Haye there were 21 well-grown young present in July. The only significant untabulated count was of 10 at Tittesworth on October 9th while other lesser counts came from Dosthill and Radford Meadows. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR, but no nesting attempts were noted, though two juveniles remained from August 14th–26th. Other sightings involved two birds at Stubbers Green on April 26th, two at Dunstall Park from May 9th–13th, one in Sandwell Valley on April 28th and May 5th, two on December 22nd, and a juvenile at Clayhanger during July.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and visitor. Warks It was an exceptional year for records, but again there was no direct evidence of breeding. Abbots Salford Pool again dominated sightings, with one from March 19th–21st, two on May 5th, and then up to 15 from August 21st–October 9th, with a county record high of 21 on September 30th BGP. At nearby Salford Priors GP, there were three in flight on October 7th and a male on November 11th. These records suggest a local intro- duction, perhaps over the border in Worcestershire. Packington again attracted birds, with up to four males on Broadwater from April 14th–30th and four males and a female in the adjacent park on June 12th. In addition to these Mandarin, Westport Lake, Dave Kelsall two areas there was a notable increase in reports from other districts; with a female at Draycote on January 11th, a pair in a flooded field between Napton and Priors Marston on March 7th, a female at Shustoke

24 from April 8th–11th, a male at Earlswood Lakes from 28th–May 13th, a pair at Lapworth Park on June 2nd, and then an eclipse male at Alvecote on 23rd and July 8th, with two females there from 23rd–28th. Subsequently there were reports of four at Ladywalk on October 21st, a pair at Abbey Fields Pool () on 28th and a male again at Earlswood on December 31st. Worcs No broods recorded this year, but breeding season sightings comprised a pair at Bredon Hill on April 18th and along the Dowles Brook on 26th, a drake flew over Stoke Bliss on 28th, whilst a pair flew over the latter site on May 3rd and a drake was noted on 9th. A drake was at Trimpley Reservoir and one at Grafton Reservoir on May 6th and three at Bransford Court on June 2nd. During the first winter period, a pair was seen on the Dowles Brook on January 16th, two drakes and a duck at Spetchley Park Pool on 27th and a female flew over Stoke Bliss on February 11th. During March, the only reports came from Lower Moor, with a pair present from 12th–21st, which were presumably the same pair at nearby Wick on 18th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised three at Holt on August 26th, a drake at Upton Warren on October 19th, a pair on the River Teme at Lower Wick on November 5th and December 22nd, five, including four drakes at Trimpley Reservoir on November 25th, a drake at Kinsham Lake on 28th and three on the River Severn at on December 22nd. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 6 3 2 11 157––––4– Barton GP 8–––25––91–42 Belvide 12244–113113–1 Blithfield 211584–34671 Branston GP –1821710126620136 Chasewater –1232––––––6 Croxall NR 3 4 1432––––––2 Croxden Quarry –––45–––11–– Doxey Marshes –––17––––––2 Drayton Bassett Pits4151515111218111–46 Tittesworth 11222–7214––– Westport Lake 2–1––––5–––– Whitemoor Haye –67–61326––––– Reports of breeding came from only three sites; at Bearda at least two pairs were successful, one pair was reported to have bred at Whitmore and at Branston GP a female with two ducklings was seen. A new county record was set at Brookleys Lake with 98 on December 16th SJT, other counts from this site were 14 on January 26th and 18 on Novem - ber 11th. Dunstall had nine in February and 15 were at Whitmore Hall on November 7th. This species appears to be doing well, the map showing range expansion during 2005-2007 (dots) com pared with sightings recorded in 2002-2004 (squares). W Mid A drake was occasionally noted in Smestow Valley from January 1st to April 6th. A pair visited Barston on March 23rd and one was at Wordsley on December 24th.

25 2006 Addendum Warks A single bird was at Coombe Abbey on September 19th. Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope Common winter visitor, scarce in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 200 200 160 24––––477380100 Alvecote 1251401306011––297090120 Brandon 14 20 4–––1–27858881 Charlecote/Wasperton 120 200 115 13––––1183551 Coombe Abbey 25 20 –––––39264012 Coton/Lea Marston 137 122 6841––1––2040 Dosthill/Kingsbury 190 152 110 50233326334585 Draycote 2002751964521143170150200 Hodnell/Lower Radbourn 140 120 302–––––2865140 Ladywalk 34 76 96 25–1–451200200120 Shustoke 24252117–––––––– Bittell Reservoirs 6070–––1––231644 Bredonʼs Hardwick 772 1500 200 701–––5147189700 Clifton Pits 30––2–––2––50+– Grimley 4–––––––2––– Gwen Finch Wetland 85 98 22 14––––2202335 Kinsham Lake 712–––1––91052260 Ryall Pits –30–––––––––– Upton Warren 1––1––––12667 Westwood Pool 4 10365–––4207452100 Alrewas Pits – 1904––––––13–– Aqualate 200 39 1–––––20154756 Barton GP 3524392178––––3–110100 Bateswood Lake 25 27 16––––––101544 Belvide 1811581075111–1079147141147 Blithfield 236––32121629235188218 Branston Water Park––––––––71002750 Chasewater 323–2–––54514816 Copmere 54 85 –––––41243695 Croxall NR 159 194 169–––––––55152 Doxey Marshes 423511––––41716535 Drayton Bassett Pits–352291––28942122 Elford GPs 20209––––––153010 Kings Bromley GP 109 26 432–––––––– River Dove, Fauld ––––––––––160160 Tameside NR 52–––––––318422 Tittesworth 61293–––––139140p Westport Lake 727–––––414–– Whitemoor Haye 28342030412–––1–15140148 Edgbaston Pool 5–––––––20408045 Marsh Lane 243 300 506––2378210258332 Sandwell Valley 7 13 16p––––p5104 WeBS 2006 1673 2672 1828 2022854814379351938 WeBS 2007 2525 2596 1180 23522111105431295 1842 Warks Away from the main sites, 26 at Wormleighton Res on January 7th was a high locality count; while outside the Tame Valley area counts of ten or fewer also came from: Earlswood Lakes, Edstone, Farnborough Park, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool, Swift Valley CP and Toft Farm Lakes. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities and during the first winter period, Longdon Marsh attracted flocks of 500+ on January 1st, followed by 75 on 13th, raising sharply to

26 600 the next day and 300 were noted here on 18th. Lower Moor held 35 on 2nd, one was at Pirton Pool on February 18th and during March, 250 were observed at Longdon Marsh on 10th and nearby at Hill Court Farm, 54 were noted the same day. Singles were noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 20th and 22nd and Pirton Pool on September 15th, whilst second winter period counts comprised 80 at Longdon Marsh on October 15th, six at Pirton Pool on November 11th, 98 at Lower Moor on 22nd, 31 at Kington on December 2nd, one at Arrow Valley North on 3rd and 85 at Chateau Impney on 6th, increased to 120 on 14th. Staffs The only other notable count came from Rickerscote where there were 100 on January 19th. W Mid Other records involved single birds at Dartmouth Park on April 12th and Dunstall Park on May 12th, three at Warley Woods on August 27th and ten on September 25th, two at Netherton Reservoir on October 2nd and four at Fens Pools on December 7th. An aberrant bird with a white head was noted at Marsh Lane NR on October 31st.

2006 Addendum Warks There was an autumn peak at Coombe Abbey of 59 on October 8th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 23 23 24 35 15 10 9 3 32 48 55 46 Brandon 36 29 8 13 8 12 4 6 30 42 35 20 Coombe Abbey 9––––––2410128 Coton/Lea Marston 72 64 29 25 32 13 40 61 68 – 96 34 Dosthill/Kingsbury 108 – 25 27 – 36 32––––86 Draycote 1812169–––210123333 Ladywalk – – – 31 – – – 100 106––– Salford Priors GP 54 57 53 27 20 7 7 16 15 15 23 17 Bittell Reservoirs 1––1–––––––13 Pirton Pool –––21––––41– Clifton Pits 16––––––4–––– Grimley 373227181918122236231610 Gwen Finch Wetland ––2––––––1–2 Kinsham Lake –6424–––1–25 Ryall Pits –30–––––––––– Upton Warren 6726321–5526 Westwood Pool 232–4222–38166 Aqualate 4 6 4 13 48–52101417 Barton GP 261021192–2028––8 Belvide 60 51 29 60 30 52 6 140 132 48 33 98 Blithfield 2–19282–3011515 Branston Water Park3392–––––5506051 Chasewater 663––––1–1–11 Chillington Lake 15 1078812–––––– Copmere 4––––––1–2–5 Croxall NR 2 5 13738––2–3– Dosthill –––4681414322–– Doxey Marshes –––31––8––25 Drayton Bassett Pits1––––3229–3950–– Fisherwick 4–––5–––6171118 Elford Gravel Pits 8167105–1–491218 Gailey –35–8––––––––

27 JFMAMJ JASOND River Dove, Fauld –––––1111–––44 Marsh Lane 35 31 10 8 8 16 18 20 35 41 39 40 Sandwell Valley 6 12 2 6 11 15 2 18pppp WeBS 2006 274 182 154 97 87 101 76 142 183 249 260 262 WeBS 2007 309 268 146 163 128 117 81 151 220 184 247 213 Warks A much poorer breeding season was experienced in the Tame Valley, with many nests probably flooded out. The only broods noted were two (total of 11 ducklings) at Ladywalk and one (three ducklings) at Fisher’s Mill GP. In the south-west, two known nests at Salford Priors GP were also flooded out. Outside the breeding season maxima away from the Tame Valley (where counts were sparse) and tabulated sites included five at Earlswood Lakes on September 5th and 14 at Abbots Salford on December 27th. Up to three were also reported from: Bishop’s Bowl Lakes, Charlecote GP, Farnborough Park, Lower Radbourn, Morton Bagot, Napton Res and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Successful breeding was recorded at Grimley. Away from the tabulated localities, five were observed at Throckmorton Lagoons on February 17th, two at Strensham Lagoons on March 25th and 12 at Throckmorton Lagoons on December 6th. Staffs Breeding records came from Aqualate, with a brood of seven, while Belvide reported a poor year with only three pairs raising a total of 27 ducklings. Meanwhile Drayton Bassett Pits had four broods totalling 20 ducklings in June and by September five broods totalled 29 ducklings. There was one juvenile at Chasewater and at Byrkley Park four pairs were present but only one juvenile was seen. W Mid Four broods were raised at Marsh Lane NR and at least two in Sandwell Valley. Birds were noted at Clayhanger most days from January to April, with at least one drake present through the summer. Up to five birds were counted at Edgbaston Pool each month from September to December. Elsewhere, one bird was seen at Dunstall Park on February 11th and two on April 15th, and two were noted at Edgbaston Reservoir on December 23rd, Sheepwash UP on 24th and Cornets End on 26th. 2006 Addendum Warks A pair summered at Coombe Abbey, where there was an autumn peak of 53 on November 19th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 4040504021132559011065 Brandon 136 130 82 87 14 13 8 52 118 143 140 87 Charlecote GP 70 125 456–––97274 Coton/Lea Marston 69 140 312––1115–1827 Draycote 63276124–––1553635957 Kingsbury area 130 56 26 12–161716284548 Ladywalk – 50 – 40–525015410060– Salford Priors GP2002702851801–771856376200 Bittell Reservoirs 808666––––24185597 Bredonʼs Hardwick 91 142 131 100–––6–––70 Clifton Pits 800––8–––89 ––– Grimley 10–372–––24586560 Gwen Finch Wetland 350 172 130 70 33 – – 48 70 160 120 170 Kinsham Lake 12––––––2552112120 Ryall Pits –70–2–––3––––

28 JFMAMJ JASOND Upton Warren 35 52 27 49 – 3 3 84 98 28 110 100 Westwood Pool 63 68 35 10 –––115256123 Alrewas Pits – 60 30 31 –––––2–– Aqualate 80 17 21 28 –––16–240 Barton GP 458 389 275 33 – – – 40 28 – 155 58 Belvide 230 278 139 70 12 6 8 109 374 376 442 392 Blithfield –––––43–––583250 Chasewater –652––––1368 Coley Brook Marsh –––––––201010–– Croxall NR 200 154 120 25 –2––643238210 Doxey Marshes 77 113 91 46 2 2 15 27 28 112 85 188 Drayton Bassett Pits21–––23216–––– Radford Meadows 16 19 30–––––––3510 Rickerscote 160–88––––––––– River Sow Baswich 4186–––––106–18 Rudyard Lake ––––––––450319 Tittesworth 454430962–849728485 Tixall Bridge 20121413–––––6618 Uttoxeter Quarry –––––––299117 Westport Lake 124–––––3133– Whitemoor Haye 42544––––––276 Dunstall Park –21–––––51–1 Edgbaston Pool 8–2––––––1–10 Fens Pools 122––––––––52 Goscote Valley 416822––––152619 Marsh Lane 153 60 29 12 2 6 5 22 78 99 112 128 Mushroom Green 851––––––345 Sandwell Valley 24 192p–––125323824 WeBS 2006 1601 1228 922 384 3 14 52 252 909 1455 1365 1568 WeBS 2007 1216 1403 973 295 6 10 16 93 557 976 1974 1632 Warks Although there was no evidence of breeding there were a good number of summer reports, including up to three (two males and female) at Morton Bagot from May- July and a pair at Abbots Salford in early July. Away from tabulated sites, maxima early in the year included 27 on the River Itchen below Knightcote on January 7th, 50 at Abbots Salford on 14th, 25 at Wormleighton Res on 16th and 22 at Priors Marston on 27th. Autumn and early winter maxima included 35 at Middleton Hall Pool on September 16th, 34 at Morton Bagot on October 3rd, a record 70 at Farnborough Park on December 5th and 45 at Wormleighton Res on 13th. Autumn flocks were generally well below average. Worcs Very small numbers lingered into the summer, with two at Longdon Marsh and three at Upton Warren during June. Away from the tabulated sites, first winter period sightings comprised 50 at Lower Moor on January 2nd, 30 at Lower Strensham on February 4th, 72 at Lower Moor on 10th, four at Pirton Pool on March 18th and five at Strensham Lagoons on 25th. During the autumn and second winter period, eight were at Bury End Flash on August 9th, three at Ryall Pits on 12th, a maximum of 51 frequented Holt Prairies during September and two were at Birtsmorton Pools on October 7th. Staffs No successful breeding reported this year but two pairs did attempt at Doxey, the outcome being unknown. Untabulated counts include 85 at Byrkley Park on November 4th, 70 at Hatton Bogs on January 28th and 37 at Coal Brook, Hales on February 11th. W Mid Present during the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR, but no nesting attempts were noted. Elsewhere, there were three at Sheepwash UP on January 21st; one at Dunstall Park from February 6th to 27th, two on 18th, one on September 12th and five on 28th; three at Stubbers Green on February 27th; two at Olton Mere on November 29th and December 24th; and six at Cornets End on 26th.

29 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford – 300 400–––––325600530– Brandon 78 79 35 30 72 76 89 128 101 84 58 68 Coombe Abbey 225 200 – 153 104 159 181 257 279 293 315 267 Coton/Lea Marston 60 101 24 – 68 81 139 107 27 – 69 26 Draycote 91 93 105 120 – – 350 407 356 196 165 158 Earlswood 102 75 – – 50 105 159 181 160 98 121 106 Edstone 46918111229414760695364 Lower Radbourn 85 55 58 47 60––––153202250 Salford Priors GP 175 190 75 63 61 120 133 250 425 200 230 220 Arrow Valley 81 98 61 39–––––––– Bittell Reservoirs 117 70 42 54 – 64 126 122 84 98 109 115 Bredonʼs Hardwick 73 94 28 64 – 45 54 190 58 105 87 43 Pirton Pool 15 24 22 19 23 19 9 15 19 53 27 18 Grimley New Workings 23 36 41 30 – 48 56 48 62 27 – 58 Gwen Finch Wetland 23 26 24 10 19 35 18 61 58 40 15 33 Kinsham Lake 48 47 22 27 33 30 38 26 61 120 145 60 Upton Warren 50 30 25 36 45 155 130 145 260 65 56 50 Westwood Pool 35 138 10 14 20 77 130 105 161 12 117 50 Alrewas 40 6 6 15 22 – 24 24 19 18 40 – Aqualate 9 10 24 52 126 150 13 41 22 60 27 38 Barton GP 321303258227158186–––––– Belvide 257 129 45 40 74 123 95 202 372 342 384 556 Blithfield –––––––250––531367 Borrowpit Lake 12 28 15 32 57 38 67 65 96 73 82 60 Brookleys Lake 320 35 – 6 42 85 300 500 950 – 500 750 Branston Water Park 42 29 34 22 – 12 39 15 37 22 17 49 Chasewater 141 44 90 – – 42 80 229 72 191 187 142 Copmere 81 10 5 7 5 70 246 100 71 22 17 40 Croxall NR 228 166 116 108 95 93 – – 138 164 172 253 Croxden Quarry ––661646–76100743415 Doxey Marshes 233 123 92 53 79 169 253 257 294 188 224 250 Elford Gravel Pits 54 36 23 38 33 12 51 321 420 446 293 412 Fisherwick 105–––33–163751416630 Kettlebrook Lakes 177 205 128 138 161 140 156 45 128 177 165 215 Kings Bromley GP 220 136 131 58 114 53 –––––– River Sow Baswich 10 22 18 – – 40 35 22 52 – – 40 River Tame/Anker 41 30 28 33 26 30 22 17 30 52 46 31 Rudyard Lake –––––––13916318797132 Tittesworth 889389116112138–––––– Uttoxeter Quarry – – – 26 20 24 65 260 420 150 41 130 Marsh Lane 101 77 36 19 21 53 142 183 111 95 97 115 Netherton Reservoir 32 50 18 17 15 30 46 56 44 34 23 16 Sandwell Valley 9 6 6 20 30 50 60 65 60 40 60 60 WeBS 2006 3789 2996 1919 1778 1605 2386 2700 3996 4191 4219 3788 3344 WeBS 2007 3037 2372 1921 1944 1749 2105 2855 4012 4455 4597 5440 4676

Warks The 2007 breeding season was generally poorer than recently, with many nests lost to spring and summer flooding. Some of the better brood counts included 12 at Brandon, five at Draycote (cf. 19 in 2006), nine at Earlswood Lakes, five at Napton Res, seven at Salford Priors GP (cf. 22 in 2006) and six at Shustoke. A late brood was at GC on October 10th. Flock size was generally rather low, with little systematic counting this year from much of the Tame Valley. The few counts received from both Dosthill Lake and the reserve area of Kingsbury WP never exceeded 100, while maxima

30 for other waters in the valley included 153 at Shustoke on June 12th, 160 at Ladywalk in September and 130 at Middleton Hall Pool on November 19th. Maxima elsewhere in the county included 58 at Whittleford Park on February 4th, 72 on the Stratford Canal at Lapworth on 28th, 63 at Morton Bagot on May 28th, 75 at Napton Res on July 15th, 115 at Charlecote GP on August 16th, 100 at Swift Valley CP on September 17th, 200 at Bidford Grange GC on 24th, 80 at Compton Verney on 28th, 75 at Farnborough Park on October 16th, 100 at Stubbs Pool (Nuneaton) on 17th, 70 on some new pools at on 20th and 26th, 140 at Wormleighton Res on December 20th, with 70 at Seeswood Pool and 300 at Hodnell Pool on 29th. Worcs A very common breeding species throughout the county. The few counts made away from the tabulated sites comprised 34 at Strensham Lagoons on August 5th, 20 at Hewell Grange on October 11th and 50 along the Droitwich canal at Salwarpe on November 4th. Staffs Breeding reported as follows (number of ducklings in brackets): on the canal at Gnosall in late March (39), at Ash Wood (six), Belvide 15 pairs (32), Brookleys Lake (five), Cannock Chase (eight), Cuckoo Bank (nine), Denstone (seven), Drayton Bassett Pits (15), Doxey 21 pairs attempted (33), Hanley Park (three), Hatherton (eight), Norbury (12), Seighford (seven), Silverdale Colliery (16), Tittesworth (five), Tixall (seven), Uttoxeter Quarry (15), Westport (13) and Whitmore three broods. Maximum counts not tabulated were 100 Rickerscote on January 19th, 64 at Coal Brook, Hales on February 11th and 60 on the Cauldon Canal at Endon on November 11th. W Mid Birds bred at Bradnock’s Marsh, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and Walsall Arboretum. High counts away from tabulated sites included 190 at Walsall Arboretum and 84 along Smestow Valley on January 1st, 38 at Titford Pools on 17th, 30 at Mary Stevens Park on 21st, 97 in Smestow Valley on February 9th, 100 at Edgbaston Reservoir on July 22nd, 120 at Walsall Arboretum on 23rd, 85 on Brueton Park on November 11th, 120 at Haden Hill Park on December 4th, 45 at Bumble Hole on 5th, 37 at Sheepwash UP on 8th, 30 at Blythe Valley CP on 10th, 60 at Smethwick Hall Park on 16th, 90 at The Leasowes on 19th and 151 at Sutton Park on 30th.

2006 Addendum Warks Coombe Abbey had an autumn maximum of 290 on November 19th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 22––––––5––– Coton/Lea Marston ––1–1–1––––5 Draycote 361–––––24121 Ladywalk 22–––23–241– The Salfords 821––––––111 Bittell Reservoirs –––2–––––––1 Bredonʼs Hardwick 25 674–––––23–28 Clifton Pits 1––––––311–– Grimley 3––––––––2–– Gwen Finch Wetland –––––––1–3–– Kinsham Lake –––––––––1–3 Lower Moor 157––––––––––

31 JFMAMJ JASOND Westwood Pool 3–––––––9217 Aqualate 66–––––321–1 Belvide 164–––––86324 Blithfield 228–2–––131525283 Drayton Bassett Pits–––––––111–12 Whitemoor Haye 147–––––––––

Warks Up to three present in the Tame Valley on dates during May-July included a colour-ringed bird, so at least one of these may have been of captive origin. Otherwise it was a fairly average year at the main waters, apart from a remarkable flock of 36 at Draycote on January 27th which contained 18 males. This was the second highest ever count for Warwickshire, the first being of 40 at the same reservoir in 1969 when it was still at the flooding stage. Away from tabulated sites other autumn records included two at Middleton Hall Pool on September 10th, three at Edstone on 23rd, one at Earlswood on October 5th and up to three at Alvecote from 7th–27th. In December there were reports of two males at Wormleighton Res and one male at Kingsbury on 16th, with another at Middleton Hall Pool on 27th. Worcs The largest flocks were attracted to floodwater at Longdon Marsh during the first winter period, where 130 were present on January 1st, 209 on 4th, 350 on 13th, 300 on 14th, 350 on 18th and 400 on March 10th. Other sightings away from the tabulated localities comprised a maximum of four at Holt during February, 11 at Longdon Marsh on March 4th, a pair at Kington on April 9th, one at Pirton Pool on 15th and a drake at Lickmoor Wetland on May 12th. During the second winter period, one was at Upton Warren on September 1st while two were there on various dates in October and singles were also noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on October 6th and Pirton Pool on 9th. Staffs Blithfield and Belvide continue as the county’s main stronghold for this species and numbers in the first winter period were slightly higher than the previous five-year average (of 34) for these combined sites. In the second winter period numbers only reached double figures at Blithfield, where the site maximum of 28 occurred on November 30th and the totals were a little below the five-year Belvide and Blithfield average (of 44) for this period. The species was last noted on April 1st with a single bird at Blithfield, which was also host to the first bird of the autumn on August 25th. The species was noted at a further 13 sites, the most being four at Croxall, Fauld (River Dove), Rickerscote and Tittesworth. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, single birds were present on January 12th–13th, September 7th, 14th and 28th, with three on October 3rd and one on November 19th. A female was seen at Bartley Reservoir on October 5th – a rare visitor here.

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, but rarely breeding. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: April 2nd (64) to October 3rd (63). 8-year average: March 26th (–7 days) to October 21st (+18 days). First seen at Upton Warren on March 29th with the last on October 6th at Doxey Marshes; much earlier than in recent years. Warks An average year with the first spring sighting of a male at Brandon on April 2nd, with further males there on 16th, May 1st and June 2nd. In the Tame Valley there was a male at Coleshill GP on April 27th–28th, with probably the same at Ladywalk on 28th and 30th. Another male at Kingsbury from May 16th–20th, was followed by the first female at

32 Haunch Lane Flash (Lea Marston) on 31st and up to two males at Fisher’s Mill GP from June 4th–8th, with a male again at Kingsbury from July 7th–10th. In the west of the county, an eclipse male on new scrapes at Morton Bagot from July 28th–August 1st was the first for the locality. Autumn reports were confined to September; with a single bird at Middleton Hall Pool from 6th–16th which was joined by a second during 10th–12th. Singles were also noted at Salford Priors GP on September 23rd and Toft Farm Lakes on 26th. Worcs The over-wintering drake at Bittell Reservoir from 2006 was last observed on February 25th. Spring migrants were reported from just two localities, with a pair at Upton Warren from March 29th, remaining until April 10th, then a female was observed here on 14th. A drake at Grimley on May 3rd was joined by a second drake on the 4th and 5th, a single drake remained on 6th and a pair were present on June 20th. Autumn sightings comprised an eclipse drake at Grimley on August 3rd, which was relocated nearby at Holt on 5th and was seen here almost daily until 27th, returning to Grimley on 20th. A second bird was also observed at Holt on 6th, 7th, 16th, 21st and 23rd, whilst three were noted on 17th and 18th. Elsewhere, a drake frequented Gwen Finch Wetland from 17th–24th, when on the latter date it was joined by an immature bird, which remained until September 14th. A further immature was also present at this locality on August 30th. Staffs No breeding attempts were reported in 2007 and the only mid-summer record was of a bird at Coley Brook Marsh on June 9th. The first report for the year came on April 26th when a male was present in Tad Bay at Blithfield. This was followed by a pair at Drayton Bassett Pits on April 29th and a single bird at Belvide on the 30th. During May a single male was reported regularly at Drayton Bassett Pits from the 1st until the 20th and at Belvide reports of one and two birds occurred between the start of the month until the 10th, with a single drake also present on May 20th. A drake was noted at Blithfield between May 2nd and 3rd and this site hosted a pair on May 14th and a single male on the 15th. At Aqualate, one was present on May 3rd and 4th with a pair present on the 7th. One visited Coley Brook Marsh between May 17th and 22nd whilst on May 21st a drake was at Barton and two visited Doxey Marshes. At Outwoods, just north of Burton-on-Trent, a male was seen between May 17th and 22nd, this being the last in spring. Return passage was light with only four occurrences: a single at Drayton Bassett Pits on August 25th, a pair at Doxey on 26th, a drake at Belvide on September 27th and finally one at Doxey on October 6th, concluding a below average autumn for the species. W Mid One was seen in Sandwell Valley on April 26th and three males visited Netherton Reservoir on May 28th.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 17341––3–41725 Alvecote 1023242–188122226 Brandon 79 89 30 26 2 5 2 32 103 132 123 99 Coombe Abbey ––––191731598510310 Coton/Lea Marston 9 213–1––1––22 Draycote 17–21––1431079 Kingsbury 135 45 35 33 – 1 4 40 75 130 159 94 Ladywalk – 50 – 25 12–9130117164100 Salford Priors GP 812162––3361578 Bittell Reservoirs 3815––––––2427 Bredonʼs Hardwick 16––––––––74

33 JFMAMJ JASOND Pirton Pool 16794––––––25 Grimley 2156––––2121924 Gwen Finch Wetland 3559332–714222923 Kinsham Lake 252216–4––411141322 Upton Warren 1129231322232366375120 Westwood Pool 28 60 73–––116474190 Aqualate 7 8 39 31–2630941756358 Barton GP 710852––––––– Belvide 36 13 19 16 2 7 17 160 154 147 16 48 Blithfield 6–6922––307272 Chasewater 85–2–––313–2 Copmere 22–––––389–3 Croxall NR 242421––8––2 Doxey Marshes 47272823–71238335119 Drayton Bassett Pits25–12–32214553580– Elford Gravel Pits 364–––––––33 Radford Meadows 12 12 10––––––––– Tittesworth 12––2–3–11–– Westport Lake 212–––23215222 Edgbaston Pool 2–12––––3171515 Marsh Lane 21 40 35 1822314514815078 Sandwell Valley 15 15 16–––330323616 Smestow Valley 732––2–6––3– WeBS 2006 208 155 185 103 8 22 1 72 221 356 245 251 WeBS 2007 310 244 149 59 7 14 23 124 383 520 467 297

Warks Numbers were exceptionally high at a number of waters in autumn and early winter, with maxima away from tabulated sites also including 50 at Ryton Pools CP on December 17th and 20 at Seeswood Pool on 29th–30th. Earlswood Lakes and Napton Res both had maxima of seven, on October 29th and December 18th respectively, while one- four were reported from: Alveston, Charlecote GP, Hodnell, Longbridge, Lower Radbourn, Stoneton Moat, Stubbs Pool (Nuneaton), Swift Valley CP, Temple Pool (Upton), Wasperton, Whittleford Park, Wootton Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Reports made away from the tabulated localities during both winter periods com - prised six at Clifton Pits on January 1st, singles at Arrow Valley Lake on 31st and February 10th, plus Hewell Grange Lake on October 11th, 13 at Throckmorton Lagoons on Novem - ber 12th, 20 at Lower Moor on December 3rd and five at Hewell Grange Lake on 10th. Staffs Reported as breeding only at Doxey Marshes where three pairs attempted but the outcome was unknown. A substantial rise in the Belvide numbers from last year with the late-summer maxima being double that of 2006 and representing a return to the numbers in 2004 and 2005. This increase was also reflected at Aqualate, where the highest count in the county (175) was noted on October 12th. The species was also reported from a further 14 untabulated sites, including new sites at Furnace Grange near Wolverhampton, Poolhall near Lower Penn, and on the River Dove near Fauld where seven birds were seen on November 20th. W Mid A pair was present during the breeding season at Marsh Lane NR, but no nesting attempt was noted. Up to seven were seen at Dunstall Park in February, March, June and August. Other sightings involved three at Sheepwash UP on January 21st and four on December 24th; two at Blythe Valley CP on February 19th; one at Netherton Reservoir on April 11th, six on September 13th and four on November 26th; one at Stubbers Green on April 26th; ten at Clayhanger on November 7th and three at Fens Pools on 12th and two on December 7th and 22nd.

34 2006 Addendum Warks The traditional autumn gathering at Coombe Abbey was unusually small, with a peak of only 31 on October 8th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. Warks An amazing year for sightings began with a male at Draycote on March 27th JOat. At least 14 were recorded during the second half of the year, beginning in August with single juveniles at Draycote from August 4th–September 15th JOat et al., at Ladywalk from August 24th–27th per SLC and at Salford Priors GP on 26th JJB. A party of four at Ladywalk on October 6th JOat, GPR consisted of one adult and three immature males, while a male and two females were at Draycote on 21st RCM, SSe et al. Other records all involved single adult males, and included birds at Farnborough Park from October 16th–Novem- ber 2nd JJB, Salford Priors GP on November 4th JJB, and at Wormleighton Res from 24th– December 9th JJB et al., the latter subsequently moving into Red-crested Pochard, Draycote, Steve Valentine neighbouring Northants. In the Tame Valley, a male at Lea Marston on November 16th–17th, moved to Ladywalk on 21st and was then back at Lea Marston from 22nd–December 22nd JOat et al. A male seen by several observers at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on November 24th was presumably the same bird. Worcs A pair at Kinsham Lake from March 22nd remained until April 1st WFP et al. and two drakes at Grimley from May 29th–June 1st TMH et al. relocated to Belvide Reservoir, Staffordshire the following day. Later in the year a drake was at Holt from October 9th–13th TMH et al. and then at Grimley on 14th before returning to Holt on 17th, with it or another at Grimley on November 6th. A drake was also noted at Bredon’s Hard - wick on 11th AWa and a drake was at Lower Moor between 30th and December 27th RAPr. Staffs A pair was seen at Brookley’s Lake on January 3rd, then two drakes lingered at Belvide from June 2nd–12th after which one remained until 16th and was seen again on 27th. These birds were thought to been those seen earlier at Grimley. Following these, a juvenile took up residence at Chasewater from July 11th–14th, then a single at Barton GP and a female at Aqualate on August 12th and three drakes at Gailey on 21st. W Mid A drake was seen at Marsh Lane NR on November 15th.

2006 Addendum Warks The trio at Brandon on September 29th were also seen at Coombe Abbey on at least September 19th and October 8th per JTa.

Red-crested Pochard x Mallard Staffs A hybrid female was observed at Brookley’s lake on December 16th.

35 Common Pochard Aythya ferina Common winter visitor. Scarce and declining breeding species. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 71 36 19–––3–12930 Alvecote 323018–––––11913 Brandon 48 68 372232–3282322 Coombe Abbey 40 38 –––––39172013 Coton/Lea Marston 290 154 23339215250–207376 Draycote 1789––––13401762 Hodnell 9 12 6––––––––20 Kingsbury area 17 12 3––131––3826 Salford Priors GP 43219–––––114123 Shustoke 69191132––––––––47 Bittell Reservoirs 30152–1–––21812 Bredonʼs Hardwick – 62 –––––––411 Grimley 503633–––––10181437 Kinsham Lake 74129442––13533 Upton Warren 15432262–2––7713 Westwood Pool 36 42 107–26821106100164 Alrewas 126–2––––––29– Aqualate 9 38 34–2–3–61037 Barton GP 68577–2––21–315 Belvide 116651954924464053056 Blithfield 85–––5185–––574 Branston Water Park228–––––––1922 Chasewater 105 69 471–––23263223 Copmere 10 11–––––––––12 Croxall NR 56 6 19–––––31677102 Doxey Marshes 4252–––––524 Drayton Bassett Pits172513124––160662 Elford GPs 2029–––––––––– Tittesworth 2424211–––1––110 Westport Lake 373754––31472656 Whitemoor Haye –38214––––5010489 Marsh Lane 42 40 301––119455547 Sandwell Valley 51 26 2 1 1 25 53 48 38 WeBS 2006 608 607 477 36 11 11 37 39 161 325 578 600 WeBS 2007 890 763 154 11 9 16 28 75 94 228 551 941 Warks Maxima away from tabulated waters included ten at Napton Res on January 8th, 24 at Ladywalk on February 17th and 11 at Earlswood on December 24th, with single figure counts from: Barford (River Avon), Charlecote GP, Edstone, Hampton Lucy (on floodwater), Ryton Pools CP, Seeswood Pool, Temple Pool, Wootton Pool and Worm - leighton Res. Worcs Present during the breeding season at Kinsham Lake where two pairs produced three broods but were probably all predated. During the first winter period, counts away from the tabulated sites comprised 26 at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 28th, 16 at Pirton Pool on February 18th and four here on March 18th and three at Hewell Grange Lake on February 26th. Autumn and second winter period sightings came from Clifton Pits, with two noted on August 19th, then singles on 25th, 26th and September 2nd, 17 were observed at Throckmorton Lagoons on December 17th and 16 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 30th. Staffs During the first winter period numbers at the county’s main strongholds, of Belvide and Chasewater, were respectively up and down from the previous year’s early- year totals, with maximum numbers being noted on January 14th at Belvide and January

36 27th at Chasewater. No reports of breeding were received in 2007 and all reports of birds in summer appear in the table. In the second winter period numbers varied little from those of the previous year and no large changes were apparent with peak counts at Croxall on December 8th and at Blithfield (for where much data was missing in 2006) on the 28th. A further 10 untabulated sites also held birds during the year, the most being 11 at Tameside NR in December. W Mid At Sheepwash UP, the first winter period saw a peak count of 31 on January 21st and a maximum in the second of 11 on December 24th. Up to seven birds were noted at Edgbaston Pool, Fens Pools, Netherton Reservoir, Ryders Mere and Sutton Park during both winter periods. Up to five birds were seen at Sutton Park in January, Witton Lakes in April and Olton Mere in December. 2006 Addendum Warks Coombe Abbey had maxima of 69 on January 16th and 51 on November 19th. Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris Rare vagrant (8/10). Staffs An elusive drake was first found at Blithfield on May 30th RSo but was not seen again until June 24th GJM and thereafter only sporadically, due to it going into eclipse, until September 23rd. Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Scarce winter visitor, some probably being escapees or of feral origin (9/10). Warks A male was at Salford Priors GP on several dates during September 30th–October 14th JJB. Ferruginous Duck Hybrid Worcs An individual, showing characteristics of a first-winter drake was discovered amongst a large group of Tufted Duck at Clifton Pits on the late afternoon of February 21st, but this bird and the majority of Tufted Ducks present that day, had departed by the following morning AWa et al. Ferruginous Duck X Baerʼs Pochard? Worcs The adult drake first seen at Throckmorton Lagoons in 2006 returned to this same locality on January 25th, 28th and 31st, whilst also visited Clifton Pits on February 22nd. Ferruginous Duck x Common Pochard Worcs A female, presumably of this parentage, was at Grimley from September 28th and 29th . Staffs A hybrid was present at Belvide Reservoir from January 11th–14th. W Mid A drake, probably of this parentage, was at Marsh Lane NR from September 26th to October 23rd. Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 20 35 30 30 20 – 10––––30 Alvecote 60 70 55 35 32 26 16 17 32 33 49 55

37 JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 50 57 73 34 34 25 18 16 13 27 35 39 Coombe Abbey 47 26 – 105281523313733 Coton/Lea Marston 1028 1204 821 330 52 109 1219 1558 1676 – 1443 1441 Dosthill/Kingsbury 110––––100270––––125 Draycote 330 292 270 225 – – 140 250 680 873 928 667 Hodnell 118 70 47 15–––––––136 Ladywalk 50 22 – 30 14–––25–1833 Napton Res 220 51 46 32 14 13 10 14 31 53 32 38 Salford Priors GP 83 67 76 81 50 39 43 48 28 35 41 38 Arrow Valley Lake –451–––––––– Bittell Reservoirs 19 21 14 15 – 7 68 94 75 47 22 32 Bredonʼs Hardwick – 16 36–6–––448586 Pirton Pool 18457237364725143837 Grimley 75 70 63 46 61 41 41 72 172 238 70 196 Gwen Finch Wetland 475222––––12 Hewell Grange 34 16 14–1––––––6 Kinsham Lake 108 28 36 29 37 39 18 10 7 18 32 43 Upton Warren 22 15 31 40 13 12 – 18 13 21 8 2 Westwood Pool 56 44 37 46 5 12 17 19 57 192 120 125 Alrewas 27 24 – 42–––840–12– Aqualate 114 175 60 72 61 44 114 298 205 260 214 151 Barton GP 365 341 292 346 150 144 – 265 275 – 105 38 Belvide 76 82 66 203 32 32 429 400 376 – 125 93 Blithfield –––––910918––4633 Branston GP 21414018––97817107– Branston WP 9568484008850517752107 Brookleys Lake 96 22 20 21 25 8 57 70 110 – 106 38 Chasewater 324 30 147 84 29 33 168 309 679 577 608 671 Chillington 36 42 39 46 108–––––– Coldmeece – 50 – – 10––––––50 Copmere 115 160 75 60 2 16 29 30 49 91 41 123 Croxall NR 130 95 109 99 60 34 – – 13 22 100 55 Doxey Marshes 13 30 14 11 15 8 5 11 13 31 26 23 Drayton Bassett Pits – – – 26 12 20 34 25 71 66 – 750 Elford GPs 613123196–5348123754 Essington Pool 6 12 15–66––1822– Kings Bromley GP 133 121 3 206––––––– Silverdale Colliery 23 19 115267514141418 Tameside NR 6 8 25 22 32 35 64–81521 Tittesworth 504227443110144671027 Uttoxeter Quarry –––1025151192–– Westport Lake 30 44 44 35 9 7 19 30 44 25 39 61 Whitemoor Haye 37 50 35 96 29 24 30 4 102 – 299 132 Dunstall Park –4––48744––– Edgbaston Pool 21 17 205––44331120 Fens Pools 621927–––––––3463 Marsh Lane 19 42 32 52 44 26 19 15 13 50 23 16 Netherton Reservoir576681–––6510– Sandwell Valley 35 50 27 31 43 20 16 21 26 31 40 40 WeBS 2006 2034 2063 1897 1193 612 746 1710 1918 2583 2691 1880 2058 WeBS 2007 3124 3307 2526 1658 684 741 2321 3374 4263 3284 4483 4222

Warks Broods were noted at: Bidford Grange GC, Brandon (three-four), Coton, Dray - cote (four), Fisher’s Mill GP, Henley GC (five), Kingsbury, Ladywalk (two), Lapworth Park, Lea Marston (on small pool), Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Packington Park, Salford Priors GP (two, cf. 16 in 2006), Shustoke and Toft Farm Lakes. Several sites had a poor season due to summer flooding, while the great decline in broods at Salford Priors GP was also caused by pit restora tion leading to a loss of breeding habitat. Counts in the Coton/Lea

38 Marston group of pools were higher than in 2006 but systematic counts from else where in the Tame Valley were almost non- existent. The count of 220 at Napton Res during very windy weather on January 8th was extraordinary for such a small water, and may have included birds dis- placed from Draycote. Maxima away from tabu- lated waters included 32 at Seeswood Pool on February 11th, 35 at Abbots Salford on 21st, 21 at Farnborough Park on March 5th, 41 at Tufted Ducks, Westport Lake, Dave Emley Charlecote GP on 6th, 33 at Edstone on 25th, 26 at Wootton Pool on April 1st, with up to 20 at a number of other small waters. Worcs The only confirmed records received of successful breeding pairs came from Kinsham Lake (two), Lower Moor (two), Throckmorton Lagoons and Upton Warren, though present at many localities during the breeding season. Away from the tabulated localities, Clifton Pits held 70+ on January 28th and February 21st, 62 on the River Severn at Bevere Lock on February 7th, were probably birds from the nearby Grimley flock, 13 were at Longdon Marsh on March 10th, 43 at Beckford Conservation Pit on 31st and 16 at Birtsmorton Pools on April 9th. During the second winter period, the latter locality held 12 on October 7th, whilst 26 were observed at Tardebigge Reservoir on November 17th. Staffs Numbers during the first winter period appear a little down from the high numbers in the previous autumn with the maximum count at Chasewater on January 13th and Aqualate’s highest numbers counted on February 18th. Breeding birds were reported from Aqualate, Barton GP, Belvide, Blithfield, Brookleys Lake, Byrkley Park, Cuckoo Bank, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Ford Green, Ingestre, Ladysmith Farm, Needwood, River Dove at Fauld where three nests were all lost to summer flood waters, at Tixall, Tittesworth and Uttoxeter Quarry. Numbers during the second winter period did not reach the high of the previous year at Chasewater but the species occurred in good numbers with maximum counts occurring at Belvide on July 31st, Chasewater on September 16th and December 8th, and an exceptional count of 750 birds at Drayton Bassett Pits on Christmas Day. W Mid At least five pairs attempted nesting at Marsh Lane NR, but success was lower than usual due to floods in mid June. At least one pair bred in Sandwell Valley. Birds were also present at Dunstall Park, Netherton Reservoir and Walsall Arboretum during the breeding season, but no nesting attempts were noted. The count of 76 birds at Netherton Reservoir occurred during snow on February 8th. Elsewhere, a total of 53 birds were counted at Sutton Park on December 30th, whilst up to 15 were occasionally noted at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Bumble Hole, Mary Stevens

39 Park, Olton Mere, Sheepwash UP, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum, Winterbourne and Witton Lakes.

2006 Addenda Warks Coombe Abbey had maxima of 74 on January 16th and 60 on November 19th.

Tufted Duck X Ferruginous Duck Warks A male closely resembling a hybrid between these two species was at Salford Priors GP on October 21st JJB.

Greater Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Rare in summer. Warks An immature female at Coombe Abbey from January 20th–28th, was later seen at Brandon on February 6th, 18th, March 11th and 13th, and at Draycote on February 13th and 20th. A pair was also at Draycote on April 17th. Later in the year a first-winter male was at Lea Marston from November 14th–December 31st, with three more (a first-winter male and two females) at the adjacent Coton Pools on December 23rd. More unusually, an adult male was at Hodnell Pool on December 29th, a first for this small water. Worcs An adult female was at Grimley from September 27th–29th before visiting Westwood Pool on 30th and then returning to Grimley the same day where it remained until October 1st. The same bird then visited Upton Warren briefly on 2nd, Westwood Pool from 3rd to 18th, Grimley also on 18th and Westwood Pool again from 22nd to November 3rd. The latter site also hosted a drake from November 24th–December 9th. Staffs A long-staying first-winter male at Blithfield was present on January 1st and was joined by a female on January 22nd. Both birds were regularly reported throughout the early part of the year with the female staying until April 8th and the male last reported on April 15th. Two females were present at Whitemoor Haye on February 25th until April 8th, with a single female also noted at this location on April 29th. Also in February, one was nearby at Croxall on the 26th. During the summer, a female was noted at Blithfield on May 25th. On June 10th and August 15th this bird was accompanied by two birds considered to be hybrids. A single bird was present at Croxall on September 10th and a juvenile at Belvide on September 19th–21st with another at Chasewater on October 21st–25th. In December, a first-winter female was seen at Coldmeece on the 9th, three were present at Belvide on the 11th with a lone first-winter there on the 23rd. W Mid A drake visited Dunstall Park on June 15th GAC, KMC, the second record for the area.

Greater Scaup X Tufted Duck Staffs One was noted at Chasewater on November 11th–24th and December 1st–23rd.

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis Very rare vagrant (2/10). Warks A first-winter male was very well-watched at Draycote from November 27th RCM, TMa et al. to the end of the year. This was the third county record, following the first two at Farnborough and Kingsbury in 2005.

40 Lesser Scaup, Draycote, Steve Seal

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, principally in spring, late-summer and autumn. Warks Rather a poor year for sightings, with two females at Draycote on January 11th the only report in the first half of the year. Late summer sightings began with a party of five at Draycote on June 18th, followed by single males there on July 10th and 31st. A female was at Shustoke from July 25th–27th. Autumn records included two birds at less usual locations, with a female on the Great Pool in Packington Park on October 8th; and an immature at Napton Res from November 11th–15th, which was the first record for the site. Records concluded with a party of ten at Draycote on November 14th. Worcs An adult drake spent the day at Grimley on September 29th while two females were at Westwood Pool on October 13th, one of which departed and was presumably the bird located at Upper Bittell Reservoir later that day. Staffs First seen on March 21st when one was at Chasewater until the 23rd. The only April bird was an individual at Belvide on the 3rd and the species was not seen again until May 16th when four (including three males) were at Blithfield. A female was present at Blithfield on May 25th until June 1st and a single was also at Belvide between May 27th and 30th. Three drakes were at Chasewater on June 16th, four at Tittesworth on the 18th, with six there on July 4th. A male was at Silverdale Colliery on July 8th and on the 21st individual birds were noted at both Belvide and Aqualate with another a day later at Tittesworth. A party of four called at Belvide on July 29th with two remaining until the 30th when a further four birds (three males) were noted at Tittesworth. A female was at Blithfield on August 3rd–5th and Belvide held two on August 8th and a single from 10th–15th. The next was a male was at Blithfield on September 23rd and in October the largest party of the year comprising seven birds called at Westport on the 9th. Tittesworth reported three birds on the 14th and a single on the 18th. Finally, one was seen at Blithfield on November 27th. W Mid At Bartley Reservoir, six drakes and two females were present on May 23rd TMH, MJI and a female visited on July 4th TMH.

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

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 6612–––––234

41 JFMAMJ JASOND Coton/Lea Marston 764–––––––415 Dosthill/Kingsbury 36 21 18 2 –––71526 Draycote 7575589–––––203042 Bittell Reservoirs 1––––––––6–– Grimley 442–––––––42 Westwood Pool 8 11 13 16––––––713 Belvide 518555641–––1356881 Blithfield 2041452–––––61837 Chasewater 90 92 66 44–––––98597 Copmere 8 13 203––––––110 Croxall NR 46 23 176–––––1213 Dosthill 13421––––––––8 Drayton Bassett Pits11201813–––––151211 Kings Bromley GP 13511–––––––– Tittesworth 57109––––––42 Westport Lake 14161713–––––189 Whitemoor Haye 1119152–––––4922 Bartley Reservoir 9114–––––––57 Marsh Lane ––2–––––––13 Sandwell Valley 45214–––– 13 WeBS 2006 25529827095111313107180 WeBS 2007 222284202842––112117152 Warks Away from tabulated sites one or two were also noted on a few dates at both ends of the year at Alvecote, Ladywalk and Shustoke. Reports from less regular waters included single males at Napton Res on January 2nd and at Abbots Salford on February 8th, 25th–26th and March 3rd, an immature at Salford Priors GP from October 28th–- November 11th, a female at Whittleford Park on November 4th and 27th, a male at Charlecote GP on November 11th, with a female on the Broadwater, Packington on 22nd and a pair on the Great Pool in Packington Park on December 20th. The first returning birds appeared at Ladywalk on October 7th and Draycote on 9th. Worcs Sightings away from the tabulated localities comprised singles at Bredon’s Hard- wick on January 21st, Clifton Pits during most of October, Upton Warren on November 5th, 12th and December 5th and Kinsham Lake on November 14th. Staffs During the first winter period numbers at the two main Staffordshire sites, Belvide and Chasewater, appeared to be slightly lower than in the previous year with the maximum counts occurring on February 17th and 11th respectively. Numbers remained high well into April with a count of 64 at Belvide on the 14th and a single bird lingered there until May 18th. Two birds were noted on July 3rd at Gailey and these were reported until August 4th and a single bird was noted at Kings Bromley on August 12th. Returning birds were first seen at Belvide on September 30th although it was not until October 10th that this was joined by four other birds. Numbers continued to rise into winter with the maximum counts noted at Belvide where 81 birds were present on New Year’s Eve and the highest count of the year from Chasewater, holding 97 on December 26th. A further 10 untabulated sites also held birds, the only double-figure count being 20 at Barton GP in January. W Mid Away from tabulated sites, single birds were noted at Fens Pools on January 5th, November 12th and December 7th, Sheepwash UP on January 21st, Ryders Mere on November 4th and Netherton Reservoir on 23rd.

Smew Mergellus albellus Uncommon winter visitor. Very rare in summer. Warks The small Tame Valley wintering flock was down to six (three males) during the

42 late winter period and all habitually stayed on the Staffordshire side of the border. The only reports within the Warwickshire section was of two pairs at Dosthill Lake on January 4th and 22nd, with two males at nearby Otter Pool in Kingsbury WP on 28th and a pair there on February 2nd. Elsewhere in the county, Draycote had a female on January 22nd and a male from 25th–February 8th, with another male there on 22nd. More unusually a redhead was on the Great Pool in Packington Park on February 7th. At the other end of the year, a male returned to Draycote on December 16th, with two males on 17th and three on 18th, with one staying to 31st. In the Tame Valley, another male visited Kingsbury WP on December 29th, while two males and a female were at Fisher’s Mill GP on 31st. Staffs January opened with single birds at both Barton GP and Chasewater where a male Smew, Draycote, Steve Seal was regularly reported until February 13th. Drayton Bassett Pits held three males and a redhead on the 2nd, one of these also seen at Dosthill. It seems likely that several observations at and between these sites refer to the birds relocating, with the highest numbers being six at Dosthill on January 21st. Nearby, a pair was at Barton GP on January 14th and on February 4th, and a single was at Croxall on January 27th. A pair was present at Whitemoor Haye on February 18th, these reported regularly until March 10th. The final birds of the first- winter period were at Drayton Bassett Pits where a pair was present on March 12th. Only two birds were reported later in the year: a redhead at Drayton Bassett Pits on November 23rd and a drake at Chasewater on December 23rd until the year-end.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in Staffs in 1994. Warks A female at Chesterton on January 7th EKB, GRJD and a first-winter male at Napton Res on November 3rd JJB were both at unusual waters for this species, the latter being the first confirmed site record. Draycote had an immature male on March 29th and an immature female on September 27th RCM. Worcs A redhead visited Westwood Pool on January 23rd GLa. Staffs One at Blithfield on November 18th MPR was the only bird reported this year.

2003 Corrigendum Warks The male at Earlswood on December 26th–27th was also seen on 25th MPG, with an unconfirmed report of it on 24th.

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

43 Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 11911–––––––1016 Compton Verney –7–––––––––19 Draycote 681371–––––12253 Earlswood 169––––––––23 Kingsbury area – 7 10––––8––22 Ladywalk 14 23 27 16111131320 Shustoke 31426––––––1–7 Wormleighton Res 3––––––––––9 Bittell Reservoirs 23345–––––––734 Grimley ––27–2–––––– Upton Warren 1––––––––133 Barton GP 35215–––––––– Biddulph Grange 9–21––––––2621 Belvide 428––––––142 Blithfield 633414181131815164592 Brookleys Lake 1511–––––––2– Chasewater 32 41 263––––––1240 Copmere 40 15 5–––––––916 Doxey 2022181012917––920 Tittesworth 332318–––––13814 Marsh Lane 5431––––1–11 Sandwell Valley 37 19 1527––––22821 WeBS 2006 74 77 100 23 30 5 9 17 7 24 30 40 WeBS 2007 124 89 82 16 2 – 18 5 7 21 42 106

Warks An injured male summered on the River Tame at Ladywalk. An unusual number of early autumn records followed, with eight redheads at Fisher’s Mill GP on August 30th (possibly a family party), one on the River Avon at Wasperton on September 22nd, three at Ladywalk on 28th and five in Castle Park on October 7th. Winter counts were above average at Draycote at both ends of the year, while an interesting development was the establishment in December of a regular flock at Compton Verney where previously this species had been very erratic. Away from tabulated sites one or two were seen fairly regularly at both ends of the year at both Brandon and Napton Res, with more occasional reports from Abbots Salford, Coton/Lea Marston Pools, Newbold Comyn, , Seeswood Pool and Whittleford Park, with four in Warwick Castle Park on November 10th. In addition a female at Hodnell Pool on March 13th was the first ever recorded there. Worcs No reports received of successful breeding pairs in the county, though a post- breeding group of eight was observed at Lower Moor on July 20th. Away from the tabu- lated sites, first winter period sightings comprised two at Arrow Valley Lake on January 3rd, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 8th, one at Lower Moor on 9th, five at Hewell Grange Lake on 15th, singles at Throckmorton Lagoons on 28th and 31st, whilst numbers at Kyre Pool fluctuated between 2nd and February 12th, peaking at 25 on February 3rd. Other February observations comprised seven at Arrow Valley North on 18th and 25th, plus four nearby at Arrow Valley Lake on 20th and one at Westwood Pool the same day, whilst during March a male was observed at Abberton on 1st, 2nd, 4th and 8th and two were noted at Hewell Grange Lake on 8th. During the second winter period, singles were reported from Clifton Pits and Bredon’s Hardwick on November 11th, the latter being joined by a second redhead on 17th, then one remained on 18th, whilst three were observed here on 24th. Kinsham Lake held two on 28th and one on December 4th, the same day that three were noted at Westwood Pool, four were noted at Upton Warren on 5th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 6th and nine on the River Severn near Upper Arley on 22nd.

44 Staffs Blithfield continued as the main wintering site for the species in the county, with highest numbers occurring late in the day as birds congregated to roost after feeding elsewhere. Here the first winter period maximum was a little lower than that of the previous year, with 63 on January 13th, whilst that at Chasewater was slightly higher with 41 on February 17th. Confirmed breeding came from the River Dove near Ilam where a female with six ducklings was seen on May 7th and lower down the river at Fauld on May 31st when a brood of seven was noted. Doxey Marshes also hosted a female with 11 newly-hatched ducklings on May 21st. Reports of probable breeding came from the River Dove at Hall Dale on June 9th. In the latter part of the year the highest count at Blithfield (92 on December 24th) was an improvement from 2006 and on the previous five-year average (of 58) and suggests that the species continues to prosper. A further 49 untabulated sites held birds during the year and these included many smaller areas of water. W Mid One bird was present at Bartley Reservoir on January 4th, with two seen on October 30th. At Sheepwash UP, 18 were counted on January 21st and one on December 8th and 24th. Elsewhere, there were four at Stubbers Green on March 24th, one at Clayhanger on November 7th, four at Sutton Park on 13th, one at Olton Mere on 29th and one flying over Netherton Reservoir on December 1st.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Fairly common resident of feral origin.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 52221–––––1– Brandon ––152221–1–– Coton/Lea Marston 15 30511113139384 Dosthill/Kingsbury ––211321113– Draycote 2211––––1143 Salford Priors GP –1782444–––– Grimley 1–2–4–1359813 Pirton Pool ––1356–––––– Kemerton Lake 676442–1––11 Westwood Pool 2–34221–1329 Upton Warren 3––5522–––1– Aqualate 4–1174––2211 Belvide 5243323631–28333034 Blithfield 34–20201755–25911540 Chasewater 11986334766710 Doxey Marshes 2––12–––2––– Essington Quarry Pool ––––4–––66–– Marsh Lane ––2365664412 Sandwell Valley 2––p2442–––– WeBS 2006 18108223629282425482318 WeBS 2007 24 33 20 28 24 22 16 20 28 17 71 50

Warks There was no evidence of breeding this year, with nesting only suspected at Salford Priors GP where flooding probably ended attempts. Away from tabulated sites a male was at Seeswood Pool on March 27th, April 1st, June 10th and August 8th. Other reports comprised a male at Napton Res on May 1st, a female at Lower Radbourn on 5th, and then single males at Alvecote on 15th, Henley GC from June 17th–24th, Napton Res on November 10th and Earlswood on December 24th. Worcs Small numbers continue to frequent the county throughout the year, but no

45 broods were reported. The only birds recorded away from the tabulated localities comprised one at Bittell Reservoirs on November 4th and two at Bredon’s Hardwick on 11th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate where two ducklings were seen on June 18th and suspected but unconfirmed at both Belvide and Blithfield. Late-summer reports of birds also came from Croxall and Drayton Bassett Pits. In the first winter period numbers at Blithfield, the main wintering site for the species, were about half that of the previous year and this trend continued in the second winter period, with the year’s maximum count of 91 birds, being made on October 24th. Counts of smaller numbers of birds came form a further eight untabulated sites. W Mid No nesting attempts were reported. Single birds were seen at Sheepwash UP on January 21st, December 8th and 24th, with eight at Witton Lakes on April 7th and one at Netherton Reservoir on December 10th.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Uncommon and declining resident on the North Staffs Moors. Staffs Again, very few records were submitted this year, with no confirmed breeding while the only summer record came from Boarsgrove. The best numbers came from the Boarsgrove/Middle Hills/Lady Edge area, where 15 were seen in November; 10 were seen in April in the Knotbury/Orchard Common/Three Shires Head area and eight in October in the Lum Edge/Swallow Moss/Revidge area. Other counts include five at Five Clouds on March 11th, Back Forest on August 3rd, two at Gib Torr on October 3rd and two at Black Brook on 5th.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks Reports from all parts of the county suggest that it remains fairly common. On the 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot, there were at least 22 pairs during the breeding season cf. 25 in 2006. One incubating bird was accidentally killed and the eggs destroyed when it was run over by a quad bike. 750 were released on this farm during the autumn and 123 subsequently shot, with at least 200 seen there on October 3rd. On the Ragley estate large covies were everywhere during the autumn, with a maximum of 200 at Salford Priors GP on September 9th. Counts from other shooting estates included 40 on Ilmington Downs on October 6th (where numbers were formerly much higher), and 88 at Wormleighton on 11th. The best covies in the north of the county were 16 at Butlers End on April 21st and 26 near Shustoke Res on September 10th. Worcs Encountered regularly throughout the countryside, with numbers boosted con - siderably by released stock during the autumn. The more unusual sightings comprised four on Hollybed Common on April 25th, three in the Wyre Forest on May 14th, then one here on June 11th and one on Worcestershire Beacon on July 22nd. The two largest counts received were made during the second winter period, with 15+ on Bredon Hill on October 11th and ten at Upper Arley on December 22nd. Staffs Pairs in the breeding season were noted at Ash Wood, Cannock Chase (one or two), Chatterley Whitfield, Ranton, Weston Jones and Whitmore Bent Lane. 19 other sites held birds between May and July. Double-figure counts, probably captive releases, in January comprised 12 at Baggeridge CP and 29 at Crakemarsh; in August 28 at Lawnhead; in October 34 at Belvide and in December 14 at River Sow Meadows.

46 W Mid Birds were noted during the breeding season at Chadwick End, Marsh Lane NR, Pedmore and Smestow Valley. Individuals were also seen at Dorridge and Netherton Hill.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Fairly common, but rapidly declining resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from Birchmoor (two-three), Grandborough and Kites Hardwick. Breeding season records (mainly of single pairs) were also reported from: , Airfield, , Bermuda, Bramcote Hall, Bridgetown Fields, Charlecote GP, Chessetts Wood, Dordon, Farnborough and Stoneton. A reintroduction project was started at Morton Bagot, with 200 released during the autumn of which 16 were shot. More were introduced in the vicinity of nearby Spernall Park and 20 were seen there on October 15th. A third introduction was indicated on the Ragley estate, with 29 counted in set-aside at Dunnington on November 6th. Apart from these, the largest winter covies were of nine at Middleton on November 2nd, eight at Farnborough on 30th and eight at Priors Marston on December 22nd, with one-four also noted at Attle - borough Fields, Bishop’s Tachbrook, Compton Verney, Hams Hall, Hodnell, Kingswood, Napton Res, Packwood, Salford Priors GP and Wishaw. Worcs Reported from just two localities, compared to ten in 2006, confirmed the con - tinued demise of this species in the county. A pair were regularly observed at Shenstone from the start of the year to early May, Lineholt held a pair on May 16th, while a pair was noted again at Shenstone on October 20th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brown Edge 1238–––––2504 Chasewater 022000010020 Cuckoo Bank 10 3 4 10 3 12 0 3 10 12 14 0 Whitemoor Haye 3420020000100 Whitmore Bent Lane 164440200082518

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding Pairs (successful) 1 2(1) 4(1) 8(1) 0 2–3(2) 5 (2)

The only confirmed breeding records came from Brown Edge and Whitmore Bent Lane where single pairs bred, however six pairs were seen at Cuckoo Bank and one at Butterton Moor, all of which may have bred. Additional breeding season sightings came from 13 other sites; overall a reduction from 20 sites last year to 16 this. The Berry Hill population now appears to be extinct. Records or more than two birds included six at River Sow Meadows on January 4th, four at Blore Heath on February 19th, four at The Clive Farm in March and April, 10 at Drayton Bassett Pits on September 20th and eight on November 3rd, five at Gailey Reservoir on November 10th and four at Hixon Airfield on 28th. W Mid Two birds seen at Aldridge on April 16th and May 24th may have bred, as ten birds were present on November 7th. At Chadwick End, there were two on June 6th and one on December 11th.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer visitor in fluctuating numbers, but usually scarce. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: May 13th (20) to August 24th (16). 8-year average: May 20th (+7 days) to August 25th (+1 day).

47 The first bird was heard on May 30th at Longdon Marsh, reinforcing the trend of late arrivals. The last dated record was at Ellerton Grange on July 28th, though a bird was seen in August at Grandborough. Warks Single males were heard calling by The Long Shoot, Nuneaton on June 3rd NDBC and in oilseed rape at Fenny Compton on 17th JJB. One was seen crossing a country lane at Grandborough around 0500 hrs on an unrecorded date in August per TMa. Worcs A singing male at Longdon Marsh on May 30th was joined by a second the next day, with both birds remaining until June 5th RAPr et al. The only other record was of a singing male at Grimley on July 7th BRS et al. Staffs One was heard at Wimblebury on May 24th per SJT, two at Caltonmoor on June 10th RMB, one at Cuckoo Bank in May-June and one at Ellerton Grange on July 28th FCG. W Mid A bird was heard calling at Pedmore on May 30th RCu.

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Warks Nine territories were plotted on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth, while the annual count at DMC Kineton in May was the lowest since 1998, with just 43 logged. The larger counts were all in the post-breeding period when large numbers are released on shooting estates, and included 100 in Bentley Park Wood on July 19th, 75 at Combrook on October 3rd, 66 at Spernall Park on November 4th, 98 at Dunnington on 6th, and 75 flushed from sallow scrub in a swamp at Salford Priors GP on December 16th during a cold snap. Of 1000 released on a farm at Morton Bagot during the autumn, 580 were sub - sequently shot. A male of the dark green “tenebrosus” variant was seen at Kingswood on November 7th. Worcs No records received. Staffs Bred in small numbers at Belvide, nine pairs attempted at Doxey and two at Drayton Bassett Pits, one with four young, the other predated. Double-figure counts show an obvious increase in autumn when captive bred birds are released: recorded in February at Napley (20); in March at The Clive Farm (20); in April at The Clive Farm (12) and Whitmore Bent Lane (11); in May at Chapel Chorlton (10), in August at Aqualate (10); in September at Whitmore Bent Lane (17); in October at Belvide (10) and Doxey (10) and in December at Elford GP (20). W Mid Breeding was confirmed at Marsh Lane NR. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Aldridge, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Knowle and Pedmore. High counts included eleven at Chadwick End on May 2nd, eight at Marsh Lane NR in March and 13 in November, and five at Coundon Wedge on May 5th, Aldridge on October 30th, Sandwell Valley in December and Berkswell on 26th. Smaller numbers were recorded at Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Foxcote, Harborne, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Westwood Heath and Woodgate Valley.

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Rare winter visitor (6/10). Staffs One lingered at Blithfield from December 12th many observers until the year end and was joined by another briefly on 22nd SARi, RSwi.

48 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica Rare winter visitor (5/10).

Great Northern Diver, Steve Seal and Black-throated Diver, Steve Valentine, at Draycote

Warks A first-summer bird stayed at Draycote from June 28th–September 15th TBr et al. This was the first in the county for five years and the first ever to have been recorded for these four months.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Scarce winter visitor Warks The two birds at Draycote from December 2006 (apparently an adult and juvenile) remained at the reservoir until May 25th, and were joined by a third bird (aged as a second year) from March 17th–April 29th many observers. The only autumn record, also at Draycote, referred to a single bird in non-breeding plumage on the early date of October 2nd JOat, which only stayed a short time during the early morning before departing to the west. Staffs At Chasewater, the two juveniles from 2006 stayed until January 17th when one departed, the other staying until March 12th. One at Dosthill on January 23rd was by contrast a brief visitor AGW. In the autumn, one was seen at Blithfield on November 26th–27th GJM, RCB and a juvenile at Chasewater on December 1st–8th was joined by a second bird from 9th until the year end.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Charlecote GP 8 7 14 12 12 12 16 15 14784 Coton/Lea Marston 15 117222–112–75 Draycote 10872––21036355029 Salford Priors GP 71325262622222726135 5 Grimley New Workings 8 12 12 8 – 12 12 14 18 24 28 19 Gwen Finch Wetland –––––––––222 Kinsham Lake 778886881014127 Pirton Pool 13224659154–– Upton Warren 425242359773 Westwood Pool 222210105111 Aqualate –2–––––14422 Barton GP 242521231010–54–25 Belvide 1333–441011831 Blithfield 212–––2–6–83

49 JFMAMJ JASOND Branston GP 73113––314404419– Brookleys Lake 66–4––185–87 Chasewater 6111111510925 Copmere 1073–––––47717 Croxall NR 3112–––––2222 Cuckoo Bank ––244112–1–– Doxey Marshes 1–––––242111 Essington Quarry Pool 126–6–––862– Kettlebrook Lakes 233422212112 Middle Mayfield –––––––––2–– River Sow Baswich –11–––––33–4 Silverdale Colliery –2566743–1–– Tameside Nature Reserve 21–1–––2–1–– Tixall Bridge 333–––––3224 Westport Lake 442–––––112– Marsh Lane 3 6 9 11 7 9 12 12 9 7 16 3 Netherton Reservoir89521––11364 Smestow Valley 101231––4541–7 WeBS 2006 64 55 96 68 53 73 90 132 143 161 113 98 WeBS 2007 119 116 91 78 38 52 69 112 173 192 182 159

Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Baginton Lagoons (several), Brandon (at least two), Chadshunt, Charlecote GP (six), Coombe Abbey (two), Coton, DMC Kineton (two), Henley GC, Ladywalk (two-three), Lighthorne area (three), Lower Radbourn (two), Morton Bagot, Napton Res (four), Ryton Pools CP, Salford Priors GP (11), Shustoke, Stoneton Moat (two), Ufton Fields, Whittleford Park (two-three) and Woolscott. Pairs were also present at Abbots Salford, Kingsbury and Yarningale Common in April. Away from the main localities, maxima included ten at Ladywalk and 17 at Shustoke, both in September. An unusual record was of a bird on a small ornamental pond in a business park at Stratford Heath on December 2nd, well away from its normal haunts. Worcs Nesting pairs were noted at Clifton Pits, Holt Prairies, Kinsham Lake (two), Longdon Marsh (two), Mamble (two), Pirton Pool (three) and Ryall Pits (four), whilst observed during the breeding season at Birtsmorton Pools, where four were present on April 9th, Grimley New Workings, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised singles at Arrow Valley Lake on January 6th, Bittell Reservoir on 21st and Arrow Valley North on February 4th, 8th and 11th, two were at Throckmorton Lagoons on 17th and one at Arrow Valley Lake on 24th. Post-breed - ing observations were of 14 at Longdon Marsh on September 11th, one at Bittell Reservoir on 13th and a maximum of seven at Throckmorton Lagoons during September. Eight were noted at Birtsmorton Pools on October 7th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 14th, six at Ryall Pits on November 10th, two at Bittell Reservoir on 11th, one on the River Severn at Bushley on 16th and finally two on the River Severn at Upper Arley on December 22nd. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Barton where an adult was seen feeding a juvenile, at Belvide two pairs bred with one pair successfully rearing two young with a further chick seen in the late summer, Brookleys Lake a pair with three juveniles, Byrkley Park four broods but only one chick fledged, Croxden Quarry a pair with one juvenile, Cuckoo Bank one juvenile, Keele village a pair with 3 well-grown juveniles on a very small pond and at Silverdale Colliery with one chick fledged from two broods. The only notable count not tabulated was 19 at Newbold Quarry on 12th November. Reported from a total of 40 sites across the county. W Mid Birds bred at Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool (four pairs seen), Marsh Lane NR

50 and Sandwell Valley, with others present during the breeding season at Bumble Hole. Also recorded at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Fens Pools, Goscote Valley, Olton Mere, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park, Titford Pools and West Bromwich. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 17 11 – 14 298768988 Coton/Lea Marston 30 17 18 12 14 12 16 10 12 – 29 9 Dosthill/Kingsbury 31––––33––––2814 Draycote 100 125 148 70 41 45 120 132 185 168 230 218 Earlswood 10 12 14 15 18 30 38 44 42 29 18 15 Shustoke 192535–7735––33––– Arrow Valley Lake 9 14 21 119––––––– Arrow Valley North –––2–321–1–– Bittell Reservoirs 20 34 20 30 – 8 13 14 10 18 50 70 Bredonʼs Hardwick 41–3––86261613 Grimley New Workings 2344–611710584 Hewell Grange ––85–––––––10 Kinsham Lake 42222222442– Upton Warren 14132822221917117763 Westwood Pool 4 7 4 10 10 22 6 125431 Alrewas –426–––1416–6– Aqualate 4 22 16 21 26 25 13 32 33 53 12 4 Barton GP 371629484122–3510––– Belvide 27 27 12 40 36 30 18 121 132 130 30 17 Blithfield 3 4 – 14 – 20 50 35 275 – 130 168 Branston Water Park12746–53911787 Brookleys Lake 2––46–42––3– Chasewater 39 51 18 2 10 7 30 29 44 49 39 27 Chillington Lake 12 14 10 11 12 13–––––– Copmere 3642261275955 Croxall NR 13 15 18 19 14 13 14 20 19755 Doxey Marshes 35710121178332– Drayton Bassett Pits12614–––1––– Elford Gravel Pits 23168744––––4– Greenway Bank CP 2––8667–5––– JCB North Lake 7––6–––2–––– Kings Bromley GP 31 38 20 38 23 25–––––– Tittesworth 4 7 8 10 10 14 16 17 21 12 14 10 Westport Lake 865911121176468 Whitemoor Haye 3 1 1 10 4 6 15 11 – – 30 20 Edgbaston Reservoir – – 24 30 – 2 13 14 – 10 1 31 Netherton Reservoir335222242221 WeBS 2006 270 300 322 270 258 223 291 360 387 472 394 291 WeBS 2007 321 325 354 366 320 302 349 507 486 519 662 611 Warks Most of the larger waters in the county hold birds in the breeding season and this year successful breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (two), Compton Verney, Coton, Draycote, Earlswood (seven), Edstone (one pair reared two broods), Farnborough Park, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Middleton Hall Pool, Napton Res (two), Packington Park (eight, of which at least three successful) and Wormleighton Res. A pair on the River Avon at Bidford on April 21st was interesting and recalls the breeding record from higher up the river at Welford in 2003. Few counts were received from the Tame Valley waters this year, although numbers appeared to be genuinely down there. The best count from a non-tabulated water was 12 at Seeswood Pool on February 11th.

51 Worcs Nesting pairs were observed during the breeding season at Arrow Valley Lake (three), Bittell Reservoir, Hewell Grange, Grimley New Workings (two), Holt Prairies, Kinsham Lake, Ryall Pits (two) and Bishampton Vale Pool. The only reports received away from the tabulated sites comprised five at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 28th, six at Hewell Grange Lake on March 8th, one at Pirton Pool on August 12th, one at Birtsmorton Pools on October 7th, three at Hewell Grange Lake on 11th and four at Tardebigge Reservoir on November 17th. Staffs Breeding reported as follows: the first brood of the year was seen at Himley on April 2nd, elsewhere (number of young in brackets) Aqualate (two), Bateswood (two), Belvide six pairs raised (11), Blithfield 12 pairs reported as bred but subsequently only three juveniles reported, Branston GP (three), Chasewater (two), Copmere, (five), Croxall (three), Doxey (five), Drayton Bassett (two), Hanley park (two), Tittesworth (three) and Westport (five only one of which fledged). W Mid Birds bred at Fens Pools, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs failed due to floods) and Netherton Reservoir, whilst a pair attempted nesting at Walsall Arboretum, but also failed due to floods. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Edgbaston Pool (two pairs, but no nesting attempted), Sandwell Valley, Winterbourne and Witton Lakes. High counts included eight at Fens Pools in March, 14 at Olton Mere in December and 45 at Bartley Reservoir on 23rd (believed to be a site record),. Birds were also noted at Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Sheepwash UP and Sutton Park. Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks There were singles at Draycote from October 24th–28th DCo, PDH, RCM et al., and on December 12th JFCJ, RCM. The latter was claimed on a couple of subsequent dates but without confirmation. Staffs One was seen at Knypersley Reservoir on March 4th GBre, a summer-plumaged bird took up a long residence at Chasewater from August 17th–September 29th GEv and another, in winter plumage, was at Blithfield from December 2nd until the year’s end GJM. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, which sporadic breeding. Rare in winter. Warks Spring passage produced three in breeding plumage at Coton on March 14th MDo et al. and a pair in breeding plumage at Draycote on April 29th–30th DCo, RCM et al. Subsequently there was a juvenile at Coton on August 6th ARD et al. Worcs An exceptionally poor year for this elegant grebe with an adult in full breeding plumage at Upper Bittell Reservoir on April 1st GFe et al. being the only record. Staffs A pair attempted to breed but were probably disturbed deliberately and thus sadly failed. A wintering bird remained at Barton GP from the start of the year until January 21st. The first spring bird was seen at Aqualate on April 6th, followed by two at Blithfield on May 5th and two more at Belvide from June 27th until July 2nd. July also saw one visiting Chasewater on 14th, an adult at Gailey from 21st until August 6th, a juvenile at Belvide from 28th until 22nd and three juveniles at Blithfield from 29th–30th. W Mid One at Ryders Mere on April 16th was the first for the site per CMa. Leachʼs Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa Rare, wind-blown autumn vagrant (6/10). Warks One at Draycote on October 19th DCo, RCM et al., stayed from early afternoon until dusk.

52 Staffs One at Belvide on October 18th BWS makes this the third year in succession this rare species has been recorded in the county.

2006 Corrigendum W Mid The bird picked up at Tysley was found on December 7th per PMH.

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Rare passage migrant and storm- driven vagrant (8/10). Leachʼs Petrel, Draycote, Steve Seal Warks Two immatures flew south-west over Shustoke at 12.40hrs on October 1st TCH. Worcs An adult picked up in Belbroughton on May 12th was taken into care GMe, while later in the year a juvenile was observed in flight over the southern boundary of the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on September 27th AWa et al.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 62 108861217148161218 Coton/Lea Marston 17 5456542312–1010 Draycote 51 43 52 17 3 – 8 13 32 45 190 91 Kingsbury area 56 – 42 7 8 10 34 120 56 – 45 37 Ladywalk 60 26 – 22 ––––60–7265 The Salfords 32 35 32 15 1 4 5 14 24 41 36 47 Arrow Valley North –––1––1––4–– Bittell Reservoirs 30131714–5861182830 Bredonʼs Hardwick 10 27 23 29 1 – 16 8 18 50 67 22 Grimley New Workings 233––5371291210 Gwen Finch Wetland 97441–357878 Hewell Grange Lake –11––––––––9 Kinsham Lake 8–2–2––––122 Upton Warren 13191015323832222421 Westwood Pool 36 21 2241122514– Aqualate 47 62 69 52 67 87 69 75 29 25 59 41 Barton GP 27 22 21 13 16 14 – 27 8 – 11 37 Belvide 1715332–65134170–25 Blithfield 16 14 29 33 3 33 30 30 139 – 103 50 Branston Water Park1173––––14–616 Chasewater 28 208812–1–81732 Chillington 15 139515–––––– Copmere 10621––––11–915 Croxall NR 438716263––2734 Dosthill –––37–112125–– Doxey Marshes 4454315117796 Drayton Bassett Pits––122318––––2427– Elford Gravel Pits 22–2––––––––

53 JFMAMJ JASOND Fisherwick/Elford North Pit92730992121212–11 Hill Ridware 16 15 5381–––––– Kings Bromley GP 19 13 12 23 149–––––– Tittesworth 20 17 14 18 10 9 4 22 11 16 24 30 Westport Lake ––753–––––21 Marsh Lane 69 26 4078871019335032 Warks The breeding colony at Coombe Abbey increased to 37 nests, most of which were successful. Five nests were also reported at Ladywalk, but the outcome was not recorded. Outside the breeding season the large roost was presumably still active at this reserve, but counts were unfortunately not received. Another roost was established temporarily at Otter Pool in Kingsbury WP during the late summer, with up to 120 recorded. Away from the larger waters small groups were seen in many parts of the county, with maxima of eight over Moreton Morrell on January 22nd, nine at Wormleighton Res on September 27th, eight on the River Avon at Hampton Lucy on November 27th, 12 at Earlswood Lakes on December 9th, seven at Seeswood Pool on 11th, and seven at Napton Res on 14th. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, singles were noted at Pirton Pool on January 20th and February 18th and at Arrow Valley Lake on April 2nd and 4th, while three flew west over Redditch on May 20th, one over Abberton on September 9th, one at Pirton Pool on 15th, one was on Birtsmorton Pools on October 7th, two at Pirton Pool on November 11th and three on the River Severn at Upper Arley on December 22nd. Staffs Breeding occurred at three sites, one to the west of the county held 26 nests, one pair at another produced two young but one died after being probably pushed out of the nest by its sibling and at a third site several juveniles were noted with one still in the nest. This is the first time breeding has occurred in recent years at two of these sites and perhaps indicates an increasing breeding population. W Mid The count of 69 at Marsh Lane NR in January equalled last year’s site record. Up to ten birds were also noted at or flying over Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley, Bourneville, Bromford, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Frankley Reservoir, Knowle, Minworth STW, Netherton Reservoir, Olton Mere, Penn, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, West Bromwich and Witton Lakes.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Scarce visitor in all months, with occasional influxes in autumn and winter. No birds were recorded in our area for the first time since 1972.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Warks All records came from the two usual reedbed reserves. During the first winter period Brandon had sightings on seven dates during the period January 14th–February 27th, with two on February 9th BMCG. Ladywalk likewise hosted a single bird from January 20th–February 16th JHa, BLK et al. In the autumn, Ladywalk had regular sightings of a bird during October 1st–November 21st JHa, BLK et al., with two on November 6th BLK. A single bird was also back at Brandon, with records on October 19th, 24th, November 4th and on five dates during December 3rd–31st BMCG. Worcs Two remained at Upton Warren on the Moors Pool from January 1st–February 6th, with one being seen intermittently until March 4th many observers. The first returning

54 bird was reported on October 14th being joined by a second from November 7th, with both birds remaining until the year’s end many observers. Staffs The wintering bird at Aqualate was last seen on March 6th, with it or another returning on October 4th until the year end PJor et al. One was seen at Doxey on February 26th RSw and one at Chasewater on November 24th GEv.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Very rare vagrant (1/10). Worcs One observed throughout the day at Broadoak Trout Lakes, between Upton- upon-Severn and Hanley Swan on June 15th CMo, was the first county record and only the third regional record.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Uncommon and increasing visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote ––––––3774–– Brandon ––––––112––– Coleshill GP –––––––234–1 Dosthill/Kingsbury 1332––278–1– Ladywalk –––––––35732 Barton GP –––––––13–1– Belvide –11––––11–11 Blithfield –––11–211––1 Croxall NR ––––––12421– Doxey Marshes –––1–112211– Drayton Bassett Pits3332––232––1 Whitemoor Haye –––––23–––––

Warks Exceptional numbers were present at Alvecote and the Tame Valley during the period August-October, presumably with a regular interchange between the two areas. The birds roosted at Otter Pool in Kingsbury WP during August and the first half of September, where the roost peaked at eight or nine on September 12th WJE. Later it moved to Ladywalk where up to seven or eight roosted during October. Elsewhere in the valley, up to three were regular at Whitacre Heath NR in August-September, with one there in December; while up to two were present in the Coton/Lea Marston area during December 24th–31st. Away from the main sites, Draycote had a bird regularly from July 24th– August 8th, with further singles there on 21st and December 19th. Other sightings included singles by the River Avon at Stratford on January 5th and at Barford on February 6th, one at Salford Priors GP on July 22nd, one flying south-east over Avon Dassett on 26th, two at Charlecote GP on 27th with one there on August 16th, and finally, two in flight over Maxstoke Castle on September 26th. Worcs The county recorded its best year on record for this species, with the majority of sightings during July, through to September. During the first winter period singles were observed at Lower Moor on January 2nd and at Kinsham Lake on February 19th, while the sole spring record comprised one at Ryall Pits on April 25th. The first July sighting came from Lower Moor on 3rd, while Grimley New Workings began an impressive run of birds, starting with two juveniles on 4th and hereafter became resident until late September, with the highest day counts comprising three on July 10th, four on 12th, five, including four juveniles on 13th, five between 30th–August 5th, six on 6th, seven on 8th, ten on 12th, six

55 on 27th and 28th, seven on 29th, September 5th, 6th and 8th, five on 10th, then three remained up to the 24th. Elsewhere, singles were noted at Beckford and Grimley Old Workings on July 5th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 7th, Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th, Upton Warren on 16th, Wagon Wheel Lane, Grimley on 28th and 29th, Upton Warren on August 6th and Northwick Marsh on August 9th. Five at Bredon’s Hardwick on the 9th, were followed by two on 12th and singles were noted at Lower Moor on 14th, Holt Prairies on 18th and 20th and Longdon Marsh on 20th. Upton Warren held two on 27th, one was at Lower Moor and three visited Westwood Pool on 28th, while singles were observed at Grimley Old Workings on 29th, Clifton Pits on September 2nd and Upton Warren on 16th. Second winter period sightings comprised singles at Kinsham Lake on October 15th, Lower Moor on 17th, a maximum of two were observed at Bittell Reservoir during December and finally one was at Grimley New Workings on 31st. Staffs Reported from the following sites (singles unless stated) Burton-on-Trent on March 20th, Westport on April 23rd, Lower Drayton on May 14th, Mill Green Park on June 3rd, Tittesworth on July 8th, Gailey two on July 11th, Handsacre on July 12th, Alrewas on July 30th and August 20th, Branston on August 11th, Coley Brook Marsh two on August 17th, Shugborough on August 24th, Kings Bromley on September 7th, Brancote on the River Sow on September 10th, Baswich on September 11th, Rising Brook on November 2nd and Aqualate on December 18th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, one stayed from August 7th–9th, with two on 8th and one on 27th per NPB. Other sightings involved one in Goscote Valley on July 14th per PAJN, with perhaps the same at Clayhanger later in the month per CMa, and two flying over Reedswood Park on July 18th EOs.

Little Egret, Draycote, Steve Seal; Great White Egret, Toft Farm Lakes, Steve Valentine

Great White Egret Ardea alba Rare, but increasing, vagrant (6/10). Warks A bird was on the scrape at Toft Farm Lakes, Kites Hardwick from October 5th–10th JJB, SRu, WJR, MWi et al. This was the seventh county record but the first within the current boundary to be twitchable, and was a superb find at this relatively new site. Presumably this bird then moved to Pitsford Res (Northants), where one was present from October 12th. Worcs One spent a few hours at Grimley on the morning of September 8th before flying off to the north-west ELe et al., while it or another made a brief visit to Upton Warren on October 1st MJe et al. The second and third county records respectively.

56 Staffs An excellent year with four birds recorded, the 4th–7th county records and the first since 2003. The first flew through Tamworth on June 26th ADa and was later seen briefly on Broadmeadow AAr. The next was at Blithfield on August 21st PDH, another at Doxey on September 23rd MCr and finally one at River Sow Meadows, Baswich JBe, RSw from October 7th–8th, moving to nearby Brancote STW on 9th.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 7467815121712554 Salford Priors GP 9 15 12 7 6 15 18 17 10 11 6 7 Bredonʼs Hardwick 4––1––712134 Grimley New workings 13555–311765–4 Gwen Finch Wetland 34–––2763875 Kinsham Lake 252–1–332255 Pirton Pool –––––––152–– Upton Warren 922326652464 Westwood Pool –2–112–21111 Aqualate 86 3 25 86 794746–2 Barton GP 171417181221–2236–7– Belvide 4584–14––103031– Blithfield –––––9––761511 Chasewater 212–34–43433 Croxall NR 72–27–455138– Doxey Marshes 13 5 5 10 7 10 13 20 15 11 17 8 Kings Bromley GP 7 9 1124––––––– River Sow Baswich 4546577–64–4 Tittesworth 7610587589635 Tixall Bridge 85565899–––7 Uttoxeter Quarry ––––––19712––– Edgbaston Pool 217755214111214154 Marsh Lane 10 8 4 10 6 13 8 19 10 6 10 6

Warks Fairly complete data from known heronries allows a comparison with 2005 when data was also fairly complete. It shows a significant overall increase in nests from 118 in 2005 to 136-140 in 2007. Occupied nests were distributed as follows: Charlecote Park (20), Chesterton Wood (five), Coleshill (five-six), Coombe Abbey (65), Middleton Hall (ten), Ragley (eight-ten), Sweet Knowle (five) and Warwick Castle Park (18). The only record away from an established heronry was of a pair seen carrying sticks to a probable nest site near Preston Bagot in April, which may be a survivor from the now defunct heronry at nearby Wootton Pool. Away from the heronries and tabulated sites, counts of 10-12 came from several localities in the Tame Valley and at Lighthorne and Wasperton, with higher maxima of 14 at Abbots Salford Pool on February 21st and 22 at Draycote on November 2nd. Worcs Seven pairs bred at Arrow Valley Lake, at least 22 nests were occupied at Grimley, while birds were noted throughout the year at Bittell Reservoir, Hewell Grange and between one and four birds were noted on 46 occasions at Arrow Valley North. Away from the tabulated localities, nine were at Arrow Valley Lake on March 7th and 18 at Bittell Reservoir on July 19th, while a wing-tagged juvenile at Lower Moor on June 21st and at Gwen Finch Wetland on various dates during July and August, originated from a nest at Frampton Gravel Pits in Gloucestershire.

57 Staffs Nest counts this year were as follows, but the number of heronries counted was lower than previous years, Aqualate 43, Checkhill Mill 15, Enville Hall 37, Gailey 33, Greenway Bank CP two, Ingestre four-five, Radford Meadows 12, Statfold 50+ and Trentham Gardens 17. Maximum counts not tabulated below were 35 at Radford Meadows on February 18th, 17 at Harpers Marsh on January 9th, 17 at Blackbrook Bird World on December 21st, 15 Ingestre on May 13th and 14 at Drayton Bassett on July 19th. W Mid Breeding again occurred in Sandwell Valley, but no details were received of the number of pairs involved, though 18 birds were counted on April 18th. Eight were noted at Bartley Reservoir on January 14th and 28th, and nine were at Dunstall Park on June 27th, whilst the count of 19 at Marsh Lane NR in August was a site record. Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (8/10). Warks Two circled East Marsh Pool at Brandon on May 17th before heading west JMR et al. Staffs Typically brief visits were made by birds at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 5th TPe and Belvide on June 15th SNu. Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor (9/10). Two 19th century breeding records. Warks A single bird, probably an adult female, was seen over Earlswood Lakes on May 11th GFe, while another flew east at Moreton Morrell on July 9th GRJD. 2006 Addendum W Mid A dark-phase bird flew over Sandwell Valley on September 14th PMH. Red Kite Milvus milvus Scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th Century. Warks Another excellent year, but we are still waiting for the first genuine breeding attempt. The year opened with one flying south over on February 26th, followed by a bird over the A45 at Ryton-on-Dunsmore on March 20th. April produced further singles over Kenilworth on 6th, Shustoke on 11th, Moreton Morrell on 20th, Brandon on 26th (in company with an Osprey!) and Radway on 29th. Another small influx of birds occurred in early summer, commencing with singles in Packington Park on May 22nd, Barford on 28th and Shrewley on 29th. Two appeared at Brandon on June 1st, followed by two more soaring over Poor’s Piece (Nuneaton) on 9th and then singles at Dray cote on 12th, Radway on 13th, Brandon again on 14th, Pillerton Priors on 15th and Offchurch on 19th. After a surprisingly Kite-free July, one flew south at Fenny Compton on August 11th, two were over Ryton Pools CP on 12th and one was at Spernall on 29th. A bird was then recorded flying east over Guy’s Cliffe on September 6th, with perhaps the same mobbed by Buzzards at nearby on 16th. On September 26th a bird was seen over Bunker’s Hill Wood, Dunchurch, while a bird drifted west mobbed by corvids at Wormleighton Res on October 5th. The last of the year was reported at Draycote on November 2nd. Worcs May now be resident in the county, with singles reported during eight months of the year, though sightings were fewer than in 2006. Observations made during the first half of the year came from Droitwich on February 20th, Clent Hills and Clifton Pits on 25th, Upton Snodsbury on March 8th, Redditch and Upton Warren on 28th, Bredon Hill on 30th,

58 Worcester on April 17th and Redditch on May 10th. During the breeding season, singles were observed over Bredon Hill on June 2nd, Upton Warren on 16th and Black Hill on July 18th, whilst autumn and second winter period sightings comprised one at Kemerton on August 28th and one at Black Hill on October 5th. Staffs Year <1990 1990–99 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Birds 51394 3154111214 Another good year for sightings kicked off with one at Tittesworth on February 11th JOak, SGi, then Stafford on February 23rd and March 3rd per CSl, Baggeridge CP on February 26th RHo, Gailey Village in mid April JTh, Keele University on 25th JAL, Penkridge on May 5th JTh, Blithfield on 25th GJM, Belvide on June 11th SNu with probably the same bird over Levedale on the same date RSw, Wetley Moor on 21st EBu, Tittesworth on August 3rd–5th with probably the same bird at Frith Bottom on 4th WJB, North Cotton on 5th CPrit, Keele University on September 27th PCa and finally Tittesworth on November 5th SGi, JOak. W Mid Single birds flew over Whitley on March 20th AJo, Dorridge on June 14th and 19th NDG and Solihull on May 10th DEa. 2006 Corrigendum Worcs Two observations were made at Upton Warren during March, at the Moors Pools on 26th and the Flashes on 29th.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce passage migrant. Warks Spring records included a female at Brandon on April 13th–14th and again on 17th BMCG, a female or immature at Ladywalk on 18th per SLC, a female at Farnborough on 20th JJB which departed north-west along the Dassett Hills, and a male over rough grassland near Piles Coppice on 28th JJB. Subsequently there was a female at nearby Brandon on May 17th JMR et al. and another female quartering oilseed rape fields at Fenny Compton on June 17th JJB. The only post-breeding record concerned a juvenile at Brandon on August 29th BMCG. Worcs Both spring and autumn passage birds recorded this year, compared to just spring sightings the previous year. During May, a female was observed over Grimley New Workings on 1st MAS while during August sightings at Upton Warren comprised juveniles on 4th, 8th and 9th TJN et al., plus one on 23rd AFJ and another was observed at Lower Moor also on 23rd RAPr. Upton Warren hosted the final bird of the year, with a female/immature noted on October 6th SCu. Staffs An immature female was seen at Belvide on May 15th SNu, a female was seen on several occasions at Aqualate from August 6th until September 13th PJor et al. and a juvenile flew through Belvide on August 8th. SNu. W Mid Three birds at Marsh Lane NR doubled the previous reserve total: a sub-adult male visited on May 3rd, a female flew northwards on 12th and a juvenile went westwards on August 1st per NPB.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in Staffs in 1974–5 and 1979. Warks After a total of at least 19 birds during the last three years, a male hunting at Ladywalk on September 28th SLC was disappointingly the only record.

59 Staffs A good series of records came from the North Staffs Moors commencing with a female at Boarsgrove on September 23rd and October 21st WJB. Thereafter birds regularly roosted at Swallow Moss from late October until the year end, with a male, two females and two first-winter males being seen on various occasions, but never more than three birds at any one time many observers. W Mid A male was watched for at least five minutes quartering over fields at Hockley Heath on October 15th NDG.

Harrier sp Warks A ringtail flew through Alvecote on April 29th RLS.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. Warks There were reports from seven sites in the north of the county, four of which were in the breeding season; although few of these were backed up by acceptable field notes. A male seen at Alvecote on February 6th and 12th RLS was thought possibly to be a bird lost by a local falconer. The only bird recorded this year in the south of the county was a migrant female on the Fenny Compton Hills on March 28th JJB, which departed as the morning mist lifted. Worcs The only acceptable report from the county comprised a male at a site in the north of the county on March 16th WFP. Staffs Fives pairs were observed displaying at three sites, a juvenile was seen at another site and two other birds were seen at possible breeding locations (site and observer withheld). W Mid One flew over Smestow Valley on April 15th GAC.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks No change in status, although sightings were reported to be fewer at Maxstoke. Breeding pairs were located at: Alvecote, Barton, Brandon Marsh and Wood, Burton Dassett, Charlecote, Compton Verney (two), Earlswood, Fenny Compton (two), Lapworth, Piles Coppice, Warwick Castle Park, Welford-on-Avon, Withybrook (two) and Wolverton. Five over Hampton Wood on December 18th was the largest count. Worcs Very few records received of this common resident raptor. A pair fledged two young at Kemerton, whilst birds were observed at Arrow Valley County Park, Bittell Reservoir, Castlemorton Common, Evesham, Hewell Grange, Midsummer Hill, Ryall Pits and Tank Quarry. Staffs Breeding pairs were confirmed at Cannock Chase (16 pairs), Doxey (one) and Ranton (one). Prey species noted were Great Tit, Starling, Redwing and Woodpigeon. W Mid One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, at least two territories were present in Saltwells Wood (seven birds seen displaying on April 11th) and up to five pairs bred along Smestow Valley. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Aldridge, Amblecote, Dunstall Park, Great Barr, Marsh Lane NR, Portway, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park and West Bromwich. Others were noted at Acock’s Green, Blythe Valley CP, Birmingham city centre, Chelmsley Wood, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Kingswinford, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton, Park Lime Pits, Pedmore, Perry Beeches, Reedswood Park, Sedgley, Tilehouse Green, Walsall Arboretum, Westwood Heath, Whitley, Windsor Fields, Winson Green and Wollaston.

60 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A common resident in all parts of the county with widespread records of up to 10–12 together, even over urban areas. The largest assembly this year was of 25 soaring together over Gredenton Hill, Fenny Compton on February 18th JJB, which was a county record. This involved six resident birds joined by a presumably migrant kettle of 19 which departed together to the north-west. Other notable counts included 21 over the Shuckburgh Hills on March 7th, 18 in the Bowshot Wood/Compton Verney area on 9th, 13 at Priors Hardwick on April 5th, 14 at Morton Bagot on May 6th and 16 at Salford Priors GP on October 14th. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Bredon Hill (five), Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake, Ryall Pits (two) and Wood Norton (two). The largest group counts comprised six at Dowles Brook on March 31st, seven at Little Comberton on April 14th, nine over Bredon Hill on 26th, six at Ryall Pits on July 21st and 10+ over Bredon Hill on September 30th. Other reports came from Beaconhill Wood, Bittell Reservoir, British Camp, Castlemorton Common, Chase Common Buzzard, Brandon Marsh, Steve Seal End Hill, Clevelode, Haselor, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Lion Wood, Longdon Marsh, Malvern Hills, Shadybank Common, Wick and throughout the Wyre Forest. Staffs Breeding was reported from 42 sites including Aqualate (four), Belvide (two), Blithfield (two-three), Cannock Chase (27) and Doxey (two). Double-figure counts were 10 at Belvide on February 18th and March 16th with 15 on March 20th, 13 at Blithfield on April 15th with 15 on September 7th and 11 at Downs Banks on October 28th. W Mid A pair bred for the first time at Saltwells Wood. Nesting possibly occurred at Marsh Lane NR, whilst one territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Aldridge, Bournville, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Cuckoos Nook, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston (at least two pairs), Ketley Quarry, Major’s Green, Milburn Grange, Mucklow Hill, Pedmore, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (nine counted on April 5th), Sneyd, The Spinney, Sutton Park, Walsall and West Bromwich. Osprey Pandion haliaetus Uncommon passage migrant. Warks Not so many records this year and these were confined to spring and summer months with a surprising absence of return migrants. The first of the spring was fishing at Alvecote on April 9th, and this was followed by further briefly recorded north-bound migrants at Draycote on 12th, Ladywalk and then over Kingsbury on 18th, Brandon on 26th and then one finally stayed in Packington Park on 26th–27th. In May, singles were

61 reported from Brandon on 14th and 19th, with perhaps the same bird flying north over Rugby on 20th. One was seen at Packington Fishery on May 29th and 31st followed by another sighting at Brandon on June 16th. Finally, a bird reported at Draycote on July 12th and 20th, was also seen at nearby Toft Farm Lakes around the same period when it was seen to take and carry off a large carp. Worcs Spring passage migrants were noted at Bittell Reservoirs on April 16th DJa and 17th CBL, British Camp on May 11th IBu, Grimley on 29th TMH and Upton Warren on June 15th TJN. In September one was seen and photographed at Gwen Finch Wetland on 24th per RAPr. Staffs Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Birds 17116 2116393319

There were fewer birds than in 2005-06, but a couple of long-stayers in the autumn were welcome. The first flew over Tittesworth on April 3rd, after which there was another there and at Belvide on 8th, the Belvide bird being seen again on 9th. Then Whitemoor Haye on 18th, Tittesworth on May 26th, Blithfield on July 1st and 9th–27th, Aqualate on August 1st–21st, Knypersley Reservoir on 3rd, Belvide on 4th–5th, Blithfield on 16th, Chatterley Whitfield on 17th, Blithfield and Belvide on September 1st, Blithfield on 4th and finally Westport on 14th.

2006 Addenda Warks Two were present at Coombe Abbey on July 16th. W Mid One flew over Sandwell Valley on September 17th PMH.

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Baginton, Broom, Chesterton, Corley Moor, Dunnington, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Kites Hardwick, Maxstoke (two), Morton Bagot, Napton, Salford Priors GP, Upper Shuckburgh (three) and Wormleighton. The largest concentrations were of eight at Priors Hardwick on January 14th and ten at Salford Priors GP on August 5th. Worcs Pairs were noted during the breeding season at Arrow Valley County Park, Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common, Hewell Grange, Naunton Beauchamp, Ryall Pits, Tank Quarry and Worcestershire Beacon, whilst three were observed at Upper Arley during December. Staffs Reported from 146 sites this year (90 and 119 in the previous two). Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate (one-two), Baggeridge CP, Belvide (two-three), Berry Hill, Blith - field (three), Cannock Chase (16), Cheddleton Valley, Drayton Bassett Pits (two), Ingestre, Onecote, Silverdale Colliery, Tixall Bridge and Woodhead, although clearly a widespread breeder throughout the county. Notable counts included six at Tixall Bridge on April 2nd, eight at Berry Hill on August 28th and five at Soles Hill on September 2nd. W Mid Two pairs were present at Marsh Lane NR, but there was no evidence of nesting, whilst one territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Aldridge, Aston, Birmingham, Chadwick End, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Cuckoos Nook, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Halesowen, Milburn Grange, Minworth STW, Pedmore, Portway, Reedwood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Otherwise noted at Acocks Green, Barr

62 Beacon, Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Cradley, Dorridge, Edgbaston, Foxcote, Great Barr, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Knowle, The Leasowes, Park Lime Pits, Sutton Park, Thimble End, Walsall Arboretum, West Bromwich and Westwood Heath.

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon winter visitor. Rare breeding species on the northern moors. Warks Rather a poor year. The female from 2006 preying on a large Linnet flock at Birchmoor, was seen again on eight dates during the period January 1st–March 6th. In the south-east of the county, sightings of a female at Fenny Compton on January 5th and 30th and at Priors Hardwick on January 23rd and February 29th, may have involved the same individual. Other more casual sightings included a female at Leamington Hastings on January 9th, single males at Marlcliff Hill on 27th and at Wasperton on 31st, a bird at Exhall on February 7th, a female near Bearley Bushes on March 10th, a male at Chesterton on 18th and a female at Lighthorne Quarry on April 13th. The first return record was of an unsexed bird at Draycote on September 19th, with a male reported there on October 27th and a female on November 10th. In the south-east, a female was back at Fenny Compton on September 28th and October 26th, with presumably the same bird at nearby Avon Dassett on November 21st and at Farnborough on December 12th. The few remaining records concerned a single at Ladywalk on October 10th, which was the only bird seen in the north of the county during the autumn; a female at Salford Priors GP on October 28th and November 11th; and an immature male at Combrook on December 19th, with probably the same bird at Chadshunt on 23rd. Worcs During the first winter period, Bittell Reservoir held a female on January 1st; one was at Longdon Marsh on 14th, a male visited Lower Moor on three occasions during the second half of January and one was at Upton Snodsbury on 29th. Sightings during February comprised a male at Holt Prairies on 19th and one near junction 6 of the M5 at Worcester on 25th, whilst in March a male was observed again at Lower Moor on 5th and 8th, the same individual also being seen over Throckmorton on the latter date. hosted a female on 24th and High Green a male on April 6th. Second winter period sightings commenced with a male at Clifton Pits on October 13th and a female at Grimley on 17th, then observations increase from November, with a male at Whittington on 8th, one at Throckmorton on 11th, a female at Gwen Finch Wetland on 23rd and a male at Lower Moor on 30th, was also noted here on December 1st, 5th and 7th. Other reports during December comprised one at Kempsey Lower Ham on 1st, a male at Clifton Pits on 16th, a female at Summerfield on 24th, a male at Churchill on 29th and finally a male at Ryall Pits on 30th. Staffs One or two pairs may have bred, but neither was confirmed. In the first winter period a male and female frequented the Alrewas/Catholme/Whitemoor Haye area until April 15th but were seen only sporadically. A male was in the Broad Heath/Ellenhall/ Swynnerton area from February 11th–21st. Single sightings were made at Belvide on January 8th, a female at Brackenhurst Covert on 14th, a male at Napley on February 11th, a female at Blithfield on 12th, Pattingham on March 3rd, a female at Aqualate on 29th and Brancote STW on 31st. The first autumn sighting was at Essington Quarry Pool on September 1st, then a juvenile at Belvide on 19th and 25th, Dry Stones on October 21st, Lum Edge on 25th, a female at Swallow Moss on December 1st, Croxall NR on 3rd–6th, Belvide on 19th, Doxey on 28th and Chasewater on 29th. W Mid One was seen at Wishaw on October 29th.

63 Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon, but increasing, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 21st (40) to October 8th (43). 8-year average: April 12th (–9 days) to October 16th (+8 days). A very early first arrival on March 28th at Shustoke before the next bird on April 17th at Fenny Compton. The last was on the late date of October 29th at Chasewater. Warks Fewer pairs were located at potential nest sites year, but this could be due to poorer field coverage rather than the lack of birds. A total of 18 probable breeding pairs were located (cf. 23 in 2006), with seven in the north, two in central districts, two in the north-east, one in the east, two in the south-east, and four pairs in the south-west. Seven monitored nests produced a total of 13 young. The spring began with an exceptionally early bird flying north at Shustoke on March 28th CRS, which was the earliest county record and the first one for this month. The next was seen at Fenny Compton on April 17th, with the main arrival beginning during the last week in the month. Subsequently up to five together were noted at Brandon during May, and in the post-fledging period groups of four-five were noted feeding at Alvecote, Kingsbury, Shustoke and Salford Priors GP. There was an earlier departure than recently, with very few staying beyond late September. The last birds recorded were at Dosthill on October 4th and Brandon (two) on 5th. Worcs Two breeding pairs reported, with at least one fledged north/east of the county and two fledged in the south/east. Regularly encountered during the summer months, with singles, other than stated observed at Arrow Valley County Park, Arrow Valley Lake, Bittell Reservoir, Clifton Pits (four), Eckington, Grimley New Workings (three), Gwen Finch Wet land, Holt, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Naunton Beauchamp, Ryall Pits (three), Throckmorton Lagoons, Upton Warren, Westmancote and Westwood Pool. Observed at just three localities during April, the first being at and Upton Warren on 22nd, and the latter site also holding individuals on 24th and 27th, whilst one was at Stoke Bliss on 27th. From August, singles, other than stated were noted at Grimley New Workings on 3rd 16th (two) and 22nd, Kempsey on 4th, Harvington on 9th, Cleeve Prior on 16th, Bittell Reservoir on 17th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th and 19th, Clifton Pits on 20th, Holt Prairies on 23rd and 26th, Bredon Hill and Hewell Grange on 27th and Ryall Pits on 26th. Sighting continued throughout September and comprised three at Old Yarr on 1st, one at Holt Prairies on 4th, three and one at Bittell Reservoir on 7th and 13th respectively, one at Grimley New Workings on 9th, two at Westwood Pool on 10th and 24th, three at Longdon Marsh on 11th, whilst singles were observed at Grimley and Holt on 14th, Gwen Finch Wetland and Kinsham Lake on 15th, Abberton on 16th, Clifton Pits on 23rd and 29th and Redditch on 24th. Just two reports during October comprised two at Broadway on 7th and one at Lower Moor on 23rd. Staffs The first returning bird was seen at Aqualate on April 20th, increasing to three by 25th and four by 28th. Other good counts were four at Cannock Chase – Glacial Boulder on 30th and three at Drayton Bassett Pits in early May. There was no confirmed breeding but between May and July birds were seen from 38 widespread sites so pairs will surely have nested in the county. An injured juvenile was rescued at Biddulph Moor in the autumn and transferred to Kingsley Bird and Falconry Centre. It was successfully returned into the wild in 2008. In the autumn, one or two birds were seen regularly in August and September with three at Belvide, Blithfield, Croxall and Drayton Bassett Pits. The last birds were two at Blithfield on September 28th and one at Branston Water Park on October 3rd.

64 W Mid Two pairs bred successfully, each raising two young. Birds were regularly noted at Marsh Lane NR and in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area on April 20th and 30th and five dates from July 6th to September 10th. Elsewhere, there were single birds in Smestow Valley on April 20th and 30th and September 10th, Sandwell Valley on April 24th and Reedswood Park on 25th and 26th, with two on May 1st and one on June 5th and August 24th, singles at Cornets End on June 12th and West Bromwich on 26th, two at Kingswinford on July 10th, one at Blythe Valley CP on 23rd and two on September 19th, and one in Goscote Valley on 25th.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Warks Of four known breeding pairs in the north and east of the county, two were thought to have been robbed by collectors, one pair reared four young successfully, and the fourth pair probably raised two, although fledging at this site was not confirmed. Other- wise birds were reported from all parts of the county from around 53 localities. Most reports concerned single birds, but couples were noted at a number of places well away from known breeding sites, including Brandon, Charlecote, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Salford Priors GP and Warmington. Worcs Records of breeding pairs were lacking this year from some of the traditional nesting localities in the county, but a single youngster was fledged in the west of the county, a pair nested successfully at a new locality in the Worcester area and a publicised pair made a nesting attempt in Worcester City Centre, but failed to rear any young. Singles or pairs also observed at Besford, Bittell Reservoir, Bredon Hill, Bredon’s Hardwick, Castlemorton Common, Cleeve Prior, Clevelode, Clifton Pits, Evesham, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kempsey, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Pershore, Ryall Pits, Stoke Bliss, Throck - morton and Upton Warren. Staffs A small but encouraging increase in breeding numbers this year with seven pairs attempting of which three successfully fledged eight young, one failed and the outcome of the others was unknown. In addition, another pair was seen displaying and two further pairs prospected without breeding. Birds were reported throughout the year with sightings from 62 localities, the same as in recent years. An injured juvenile was picked up in Newcastle in the spring and taken into care at Stapeley Rescue Centre. It recovered and was released back at Newcastle later in the year. An immature with a white ring, seen at Belvide on October 26th, was ringed in Shropshire. W Mid A pair raised one juvenile at a Black Country quarry, with others probably nesting in Birmingham city centre and Fort Dunlop. Birds were recorded at Marsh Lane NR in every month. At Reedswood Park, one was seen on February 19th, with two on March 8th and singles on 26th, June 23rd and July 31st. At West Bromwich, there were two on May 10th and one on 14th. Otherwise, singles were seen in Smestow Valley on January 20th, February 13th, March 17th, 18th, 21st and 26th, August 23rd and October 21st; Stubbers Green on January 29th; Dunstall Park on March 11th, April 5th and May 28th; Cofton Common on 31st; Lutley Wedge on April 2nd and 5th; Saltwells LNR on 25th and 28th and November 17th; Sandwell Valley on May 10th and August 19th; Small Heath on July 8th; Bartley Reservoir on September 14th; Fen End on November 2nd and Blackheath on 28th.

65 Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Grimley 883–––––2346 Gwen Finch Wetland –21112131264 Kinsham Lake 211––––––225 Lower Moor 42–––––1–2610 Upton Warren 8108888–1212121212 Westwood Pool 24–211––2444 Marsh Lane 1121–1––2232 Sandwell Valley 2121–––––263 Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Alvecote (juvenile seen on July 8th), Brandon (possibly five territories, several broods seen), Coombe Abbey, Ladywalk (juvenile seen on July 1st), Napton Res, Salford Priors GP (two, one brood seen) and Warwick Castle Park. Outside the breeding season numbers were particularly high in the autumn, with site maxima of eight at Ladywalk on October 17th, nine at Salford Priors GP on 21st, at least 15 at New Waters in Warwick Castle Park and six at Fisher’s Mill GP on November 15th, ten at Napton Res on 16th and ten at Brandon on 20th. Up to five were also present at Alvecote and four at Whittleford Park during November-December, with one or two also present at: Abbots Salford, Bermuda, Bidford-on-Avon, Bishop’s Itch - ington, Chadshunt, Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Coton, Dordon, Dosthill, Earlswood Lakes, Edstone, Guy’s Cliffe, Kingsbury, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Quarry, Lower Radbourn, Middleton Hall, Seeswood Pool, Ufton Fields, Wasperton, Watergall, Whitacre Heath NR, Wootton Wawen and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Resident at Gwen finch Wetland, where two pairs bred, while three pairs hatched at least nine young at Upton Warren. Away from the tabulated sites, records of single birds came from Ashmoor Common on January 28th, Arrow Valley Lake on February 1st, Stren- sham Lagoons on April 28th, while individuals were heard calling during both winter periods at Oakley Pool and noted along the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe during November and at Rous Lench during December. Staffs During the early months of the year the species was reported in small numbers from sites noted in previous years with the highest count of three at Astonfields Balancing Lakes on February 18th. Breeding was confirmed only at Doxey where 29 pairs were con - sidered to have bred, although breeding was thought likely at Aqualate and birds were seen during summer at Astonfields on June 10th and Blithfield on August 16th. Singles were seen at Belvide on September 16th, Copmere and on the Eland Brook, both on October 14th and Rudyard Lake on the 15th. Two new sites, Castletown Pool and Holden Lane Pools, reported birds on October 21st and 23rd respectively. During the final months of the year the species was regularly noted at sites throughout the county with notable numbers at Doxey with 11 on November 11th and at Belvide with four on 27th. Other sites were Alvecote Pools, Branston GP, Branston Water Park, Chasewater, Chillington Lake, Consall CP, Croxall, Dosthill, Drayton Bassett Pits, Handsacre Flash, River Sow Meadows and Westport. W Mid Breeding probably occurred at Marsh Lane NR, where a juvenile was noted on September 9th. Six birds were counted in Sandwell Valley on November 4th. Singles were noted at Saltwells LNR on January 1st–2nd and February 4th and 11th; Sheepwash UP on January 21st; Goscote Valley on February 14th, March 7th and November 21st; Dunstall Park on October 22nd and November 6th; Reedswood Park on December 5th and Smestow Valley on 31st, with two at Blythe Valley CP on 10th.

66 Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (9/10). Has bred. Warks A prolonged stay at Ladywalk by at least two birds during September allowed many observers to add this very secretive bird to their county lists. The first found was a juvenile on September 1st with an adult discovered in a different part of the reserve next day. Both birds were then seen almost daily up to September 14th, with at least one individual reported on a regular basis until 29th many observers. Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoirs 6568–35681168 Bredonʼs Hardwick 11–1––1–1521 Grimley 7182922–25143141233728 Gwen Finch Wetland 7876568272416107 Kinsham Lake 87899888910108 Pirton Pool 25567101081614105 Upton Warren 151515151514151524151515 Westwood Pool 33434752119171410 Alrewas 135388–6–17518– Aqualate 17227–136101423 Baggeridge CP ––––––––10–258 Barton GP 19291811811–––––– Belvide 10–44101020–117––– Blithfield –––2––2–6–41 Borrowpit Lake 342334432342 Brookleys Lake ––––––3–5–48 Branston Water Park351102104647 Burton-on-Trent 5332–8–779177 Chasewater 17–––––––3162820 Copmere 32––––215211735 Croxall NR 2 3 106944451185 Dosthill –––44244610–– Doxey Marshes 16 28 19 21 15 10 19 43 37 62 26 22 Hill Ridware 22 19 16 14 166–––––– Kettlebrook Lakes 21 20 17 17 17 18 21 16 15 18 22 28 River Sow Baswich ––12––14–––11–21 River Tame/Anker 466565325463 Rudyard Lake –––––––32966 Tameside NR 324445354668 Westport Lake 108–––––––––– Marsh Lane –8852–714122254 Warks Counts of breeding pairs included at least nine at Brandon, four at Lapworth Park, four on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot (as in 2006), and eight on four pools in the vicinity of Lighthorne Quarry. Site maxima during the year included 32 at Draycote in September, 29 at Brandon in October and 32 at Coombe Abbey in November; with counts of 20-25 at Charlecote GP, Coton/Lea Marston Pools, Farnborough Park, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Stubbs Pool and Swift Valley CP. Worcs A common breeding species on most waterways across the county, though the only breeding record received was of a pair and three juveniles at Southcrest Pool on August 23rd. Two counts were received away from the tabulated localities, with 20 at Arrow Valley Lake on February 4th and 15 along the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe on December 4th.

67 Staffs No exceptional numbers were noted in the first winter period, the highest being 28 at Doxey on February 18th. The species was heavily under-reported during the breeding season with only two sites: Pipe Green and Doxey having breeding confirmed with 41 pairs at the latter site. At Tittesworth, a pair of Common Coots attacked a moorhen’s nest, killing the chicks one by one, these being consumed by an opportunistic Carrion Crow. During the second winter period, reported in good numbers from several sites with the highest count (of 117 birds) at Belvide on September 16th. A further 49 untabulated sites also held birds during the year. W Mid At least seven pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. Maximum counts included 14 at Sheepwash UP on January 21st, 12 at Blythe Valley CP on September 19th, 14 at Saltwells LNR on October 7th, 15 at Fens Pools on November 12th, 21 at West Bromwich on 19th and 16 at The Leasowes on December 21st. About 80 birds were estimated in Smestow Valley during the second winter period.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 61 60 – 43 31 27 25 35 68 71 79 53 Coton/Lea Marston 300 214 52 – 34 56 141 156 285 – 470 381 Draycote 201 188 105 120 55 – 70 295 453 451 426 456 Napton Res 200 150 75 48 45 – – 70 85 97 110 135 Salford Priors GP 47 60 62 70 63 – – 90 90 73 47 34 Bittell Reservoirs 22 20 12 25 – 30 52 37 22 32 29 28 Bredonʼs Hardwick 39 71 – 12 – 7 13 – 6 25 21 67 Grimley 26 86 81 68 – 60 76 80 78 67 72 80 Gwen Finch Wetland 12 15 783726712913 Kinsham Lake 134 115 48 39 31 54 107 173 168 103 108 126 Pirton Pool 65 59 38 26 39 67 65 61 43 39 48 8 Upton Warren 37 35 35 18 15 20 – 40 133 180 208 230 Westwood Pool 13 25 17 55 50 93 145 145 163 357 506 300 Alrewas 14 32 – 336––5011––– Aqualate 60 20 25 75 67 276 379 616 1087 933 1670 1823 Barton GP 459279155162133175–––––– Belvide 240 224 135 100 172 372 800 1340 1406 962 883 290 Blithfield –––––––110––28887 Branston Water Park 169 99 28 27 – 17 50 97 245 352 340 388 Brookleys Lake 35166–6–35–55–9867 Chasewater 392 – 12823–872421527658489 Chillington Lake 41 47 50 50 25 46 –––––– Copmere 470 293 75 43 40 83 170 340 479 640 519 641 Croxall NR 51 65 85 80 57 69 –––––– Dosthill – – –1842030297945– – Doxey Marshes 28 24 32 36 21 18 55 105 78 74 69 50 Elford GPs 452937152616402713184720 Essington Quarry Pool 40 – 12–––––30–40– Hill Ridware 25 47 28 19 28 14 –––––– Kettlebrook Lakes 42 47 38 35 42 37 37 34 24 37 46 53 Kings Bromley GP 63 67 59 23 44 30 30––––– Tameside NR 47 23 28 14 17 28 15 27 41 35 53 62 Tittesworth 328766–––––– Westport Lake 60–––––––107156138– Whitemoor Haye 20364964316237110828––4 Dunstall Park 4 11 10 10 10 13 1485532 Fens Pools 407357–––––––132118

68 JFMAMJ JASOND Marsh Lane 110 150 59 63 45 63 109 78 43 34 48 55 Netherton Reservoir 57 49 28 24 10 7 16 18 27 33 32 41 Sandwell Valley 5 8 4 33 13 13 13 11 14 14 22 80 WeBS 2006 3523 2670 2242 1359 993 1474 2854 3990 4636 4500 3778 3662 WeBS 2007 3077 2728 1627 1403 1073 1842 2599 3473 4705 4803 6625 6061

Warks Compared to other wildfowl it was generally an excellent breeding season, with at least 18 broods reared at Brandon, 11 at Compton Verney, 20 at Napton Res and 25 at Salford Priors GP. Wintering numbers appeared to be down on recent years, with few counts emanating from the Tame Valley away from Coton/Lea Marston Pools. The only notable estimates elsewhere in the valley were of 500 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area in January and 300 at Shustoke in September. Brandon had larger numbers than for some years, with peaks of 74 on February 8th and 72 on December 18th; while counts of around 25-40 were noted at: Abbots Salford, Charlecote GP, Chesterton Mill Pool, Compton Verney, Lower Radbourn, Newbold Quarry, Seeswood Pool and Whittleford Park. A bird was watched feeding on apples at Napton Res on August 15th, by pulling down an overhanging spray onto the water. Ashy-grey leucistic birds with white legs were noted at Draycote from July 10th–August 7th and at Alvecote on August 16th. Worcs Successfully breeding pairs were observed at Bredon’s Hardwick, Grimley, Holt, Kinsham Lake, Pirton Pool, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Away from the tabulated sites, ten were noted at Birtsmorton Pools on March 25th and 68 at Tardebigge Reservoir on November 17th. Staffs Birds were reported in slightly lower numbers on the larger reservoirs during the first winter period compared to 2006, although an exceptionally high count of 470 was made at Copmere on January 7th. Breeding was confirmed at 27 sites during the summer with 29 pairs at Doxey and 25-30 pairs at Belvide. At Brookley’s Lake eight pairs were noted with chicks on July 8th. The usual late summer congregation was noted on some of the larger sites with build-up of birds continuing throughout the second winter period. Unusually high counts were noted at both Aqualate and Belvide although unfortunately no data was available from Blithfield this year. The year’s highest count, of 1823 birds, was made at Aqualate on December 9th with Belvide’s birds peaking earlier on September 2nd. Copmere again held good numbers in the later months with 658 on November 14th being a site record. Birds were noted at another 27 untabulated sites during 2007. W Mid Birds bred at Dunstall Park (four young fledged – the most yet), along the Dudley No.2 Canal, at Edgbaston Reservoir, Marsh Lane NR (at least 25 young raised), Netherton Reservoir, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Stubbers Green, Titford Pools, Walsall Arboretum and Witton Lakes. High counts included 50 at Stubbers Green on January 3rd and May 29th, 48 at Sheepwash UP on December 8th and 61 in Sutton Park on 30th. Smaller numbers were noted at Bartley Reservoir, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Bumble Hole, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Haden Hill Park, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Moseley Park, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley, Smethwick Hall Park, Sutton Park and Winterbourne.

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

69 Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –1365883–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 2455552–––1– Draycote –2–11211–––– Ladywalk –332354––1–– Salford Priors GP –1442263–––– Bittell Reservoirs ––––3–2––––– Bredonʼs Hardwick –1232–1––––– Grimley –38466431––1 Holt ––5––––––––– Kinsham Lake –22264–––––– Upton Warren –333533––––– Alrewas Pits –1–2–4–––––– Aqualate ––11–2–1–––– Barton GP –4666971–––– Belvide 1566465––––– Blake Hall Fishery ––221––––––– Blithfield –444411154–1–– Branston Gravel Pit –121463––––– Branston Water Park–2214–3––––– Chasewater 11443232–––– Coldmeece Pools ––211–2––––– Croxall NR 25566541–––– Doxey Marshes –32432–11––– Drayton Bassett Pits16455531–––– Elford Gravel Pits –333322––––– Kings Bromley GP –48863–––––– Tameside NR ––22222––––– Tittesworth –––2144–––1– Uttoxeter Quarry ––53224––––– Whitemoor Haye 3375334––1–– Marsh Lane –554410101–––– Sandwell Valley ––222333––––

Warks A total of four pairs were proved breeding, with nests at: Brandon (three young reared); Kingsbury (one young); Ladywalk (one young); and Salford Priors GP (two young). Only one bird returned to Toft Farm Lakes in April, where a pair bred in 2006 for the first time. Other records came mainly from sites in the close vicinity of breeding sites and included: Abbots Salford, up to four from February-April; Coombe Abbey, up to three from April-July; and Coton/Lea Marston, up to two from February-June; with less frequent records of one or two in the Packington area, Shustoke and a new pool by the Road at Wishaw. In addition, a bird on new farmland scrapes at Morton Bagot on April 19th was the first for the local area. Worcs A pair was present at Bredon’s Hardwick, but failed to raise any young, while a pair at Kinsham Lake hatched several young which were all predated, but then successfully fledged two juveniles from a second brood. A pair at Upton Warren fledged a single bird. Away from the tabulated sites singles were noted at Lower Moor on February 20th, Ryall Pits on April 22nd and May 20th, Gwen Finch Wetland on May 6th, Bury End Flash on July 15th and Throckmorton Lagoons on 27th. Staffs Despite the summer floods, it was the best breeding year on record. This occurred at Alrewas (one pair with young), Belvide (two pairs, one with three young – two fledged, the other losing two young), Blithfield (one pair fledged two young, the other pair raised three young all sadly killed by traffic on the causeway), Branston Gravel Pits (two pairs produced young), Branston Water Park (one pair with young), Doxey (two pairs,

70 outcome unknown), Drayton Bassett Pits (one pair with three young which all perished), JCB North Lake (one pair, one young), Tameside NR (one pair flooded out) and Whitmore (one pair, outcome unknown). A further pair at Hatherton may have been breeders.

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding Pairs (successful) 2(1) 5(3) 2(1) 6(5) 7(5) 9(4) 15(7) Elsewhere, seven on the Dove at Fauld on July 4th and five at Fisherwick/Elford North Pit on March 1st, with smaller numbers in the first half of the year at Bateswood Lake, Brookley’s Lake, Clay Mill STW, Dosthill, Draycott-in-the-Clay, Drakelow NR, Essington Quarry Pool, Forton, Gailey, Rickerscote, Stableford and Westport. W Mid Two pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, raising five young between them. A pair bred at Sandwell Valley for the first time, fledging one offspring. Single birds were at Bartley Reservoir on February 11th and 28th, Minworth STW on May 17th and Stubbers Green on 23rd and 29th. 2006 Addendum Warks Up to five were at Coombe Abbey in June-July. Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant and very rare breeder (8/10). Warks Single birds were seen at Draycote on March 7th TBr and April 30th SRop, with the latter bird moving to the scrape at nearby Toft Farm Lakes on May 1st WJR. Worcs Once again two pairs bred at Upton Warren, the fifth successive year of breeding. The first arrival occurred on March 13th when a party of seven settled down at the Flashes, being joined by another bird by the end of the month. A pair soon laid eggs and by April 30th the first chick hatched increasing to four by May 1st. A second family of four chicks started hatching on May 10th and all eight youngsters were surviving by the end of the month. The first brood fledged by June 8th and the second brood not long after. All the adults and juveniles had departed the reserve by June 26th. Staffs Two were seen at Blithfield on April 15th GJM et al., one at Branston GP May 11th–14th SRC with another on June 3rd DAS, then three at Dosthill on 6th ARD and one at Whitemoor Haye on July 8th MYa. W Mid One was at Marsh Lane NR on May 3rd REH, SHa. Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Rare vagrant (2/10). W Mid One remained at Marsh Lane NR from May 3rd–5th REH, SHa, et al., though it disappeared for the afternoon and evening of 4th. The bird was colour-ringed as a chick at Weeting Heath, Norfolk, in 2002. This constitutes the first record for the site and the first for the county since one at Bartley in 1991. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 20th (43) to October 4th (43). 8-year average: March 14th (–6 days) to October 2nd (–2 days) In keeping with recent trends the first was seen on March 15th at Uttoxeter Quarry with the last being at Charlecote GP on October 4th.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––2432–1––––

71 JFMAMJJASOND Dosthill/Kingsbury –––4321––––– Draycote ––1222–––––– Ladywalk –––223–––––– Salford Priors GP –––108881–––– Clifton Pits –––221–52––– Grimley –––33684–––– Lower Moor ––1552–––––– Ryall Pits –––1011321511––– Upton Warren ––41310131622––– Barton GP –––471024–––– Belvide ––134341–––– Blithfield ––15341611––– Branston GP –1–2222––––– Byrkley Park –––2–21––––– Chasewater ––11211––––– Coldmeece Pools ––239–8––––– Croxall NR ––2351–3–––– Croxden Quarry –––2141––––– Doxey Marshes ––185263–––– Drayton Bassett Pits––17129421––– Silverdale Colliery ––24433––––– Tittesworth –––456–––––– Uttoxeter Quarry ––112332––––– Westport Lake ––42382––––– Whitemoor Haye ––146414–––– Dunstall Park ––1231–––––– Marsh Lane – – 2 10838––––– Sandwell Valley ––245125––––

Warks A total of 18 breeding pairs were reported from: Baxterley (two, one brood), Brandon (failed due to harassment from breeding Ringed Plovers), Coleshill GP (two, flooded out), Dordon (two, one brood), Dosthill, Ladywalk (one young fledged), Morton Bagot (two, three young fledged), Salford Priors GP (four, at least two broods seen), and Toft Farm Lakes (three). In addition to these a pair was also present on new territory at Henley GC during April-May, with at least one still present on June 10th. Another pair at Abbots Salford during April-May appeared to abandon the site before nesting. Apart from four at Dordon on March 19th and one at Draycote on 21st, it was a very late spring arrival, with no more recorded until 29th at Brandon. Most arrived from the first week in April. The absence of late summer passage at the main waters was very striking and presumably reflects a shortage of fledged young. Apart from breeding sites there were very few records of passage birds away from the Tame Valley. A single bird was at Napton Res on April 18th; while at Charlecote GP a former breeding site, there was one on June 1st, two juveniles from August 12th– 20th and a late bird from September 28th– October 4th. Worcs Breeding records comprised eight pairs, with at least 16 young at Ryall Pits in June and another brood of three was noted here in August. A nesting pair was also noted at Lower Moor but failed. Away from the tabulated sites one was at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 23rd, two at Bittell Reservoirs on April 13th and one on 18th, then two again on 21st and singles at Throckmorton Lagoons on May 1st, 15th and 16th, Longdon Marsh on 15th and Kinsham Lake on 25th. One visited Throckmorton Lagoons on July 29th, while in August one was at Bury End Flash on 26th and two were at Longdon Marsh on 11th, while in September one was at Bury End Flash on 24th.

72 Staffs Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding Pairs 12 8 10 17 18–19 15 22–23 The first arrival was at Uttoxeter Quarry on March 15th, followed by one at Westport the next day. Despite the terrible summer weather, this year held the highest number of breeding attempts since 2000 at least: at Barton GP (one+ pairs – flooded out), Branston GP/Newbold Quarry (one pair fledged two young), Britannia Stadium (one pair fledged two young, one pair had three young predated), Byrkley Park (one pair, one young), Coldmeece (three pairs, one with three young), Croxall (one pair, outcome unknown), Croxden Quarry (one pair, three young), Doxey (two pairs probably failed), Drayton Bassett Pits (one pair failed, one pair with two young), Meaford (one pair), Sideway (one pair successful), Silverdale Colliery (one pair, one young), Tittesworth (three pairs all flooded out) and Uttoxeter Quarry (two-three pairs, all probably flooded out). Elsewhere, a pair displayed at Fenton Industrial Estate on April 3rd but didn’t stay, a pair at Rudyard from 26th–May 4th, one at Stanley Pool on May 4th and 10th, two at Elford GP on 13th, two at Alrewas Junction Pit on June 12th and eight at Clay Mills STW on July 1st. The last two birds were at Radford Meadows on September 5th. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR (two pairs) and Sandwell Valley (two pairs), but all were unsuccessful. Birds were also noted at Minworth STW on May 17th. Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Frequent passage migrant and scarce summer resident. Rare in mid-winter. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 1123872––––– Coleshill GP ––22102–––1–– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––11–––––––– Draycote ––––12–1511– Salford Priors GP –11222321––– Bittell Reservoirs ––––––––31–– Bredonʼs Hardwick ––––1––––––– Clifton Pits –––––––21––– Grimley –––317––42––– Holt –––––––81––– Lower Moor –––14–1–1––– Ryall Pits –––1––––1––– Throckmorton –––1––13–––– Upton Warren –1–211––12–– Barton GP ––24358815–––– Belvide –––13––262–– Blithfield –––18413972–– Branston GP –112262–11–– Croxall NR ––326113–––– Doxey Marshes ––221–311––– Drayton Bassett Pits––12201141––– Uttoxeter Quarry –––––1––11–– Whitemoor Haye –1051016–210–––– Marsh Lane – 6 8 12 9861–––– Warks Single breeding pairs were reported from: Brandon (two young reared), Coleshill GP (failed), Dordon and Salford Priors GP (failed). The year opened with an unusual midwinter bird at Brandon on January 3rd, while the first spring bird arrived here on February 19th. Away from tabulated sites, spring reports included a single bird in a waterlogged arable field at Priors Hardwick on February 28th; two at Morton Bagot on

73 April 21st, with singles there on 22nd and May 26th; and one at Ladywalk on April 30th. On autumn passage, two arrived at Charlecote GP with a party of Dunlin on August 16th and there was a single bird at Shustoke on 21st. Draycote had the last autumn bird on October 21st, but there was then an even later record there of a bird in flight on November 17th. Worcs See tabulated localities. Staffs A particularly high count on spring passage occurred at Barton GP with 35 on May 21st and 25 still present on 28th, otherwise the highest count of 39 at Blithfield was made on August 21st. One pair fledged three young at Branston GP, another fledged two at Croxall NR and at least one pair attempted at Barton GP but was flooded out. Other records came from Alrewas on February 11th, Tittesworth on May 2nd and 12th–13th, Chasewater on 14th with two from 23rd–26th, Crossplains August 10th, Aqualate September 6th, Alrewas Junction Pit October 19th, Tittesworth 21st and Crossplains on 24th. W Mid Two pairs bred at Marsh lane NR, one fledging one young. Single birds visited Sandwell Valley on March 4th and in May, and Bartley Reservoir on August 28th. Birds were also recorded at Clayhanger.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (8/10). Staffs A juvenile was photographed at Bobbington, near Wolverhampton Airport, on September 25th RHo, MJH, PHo.

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce, and declining breeding species on the North Staffs Moors. Long-term average: August 14th (59) to April 29th (61). 8-year average: August 22nd (+8 days) to April 30th (+1 day). In line with later arrivals, the first was noted on August 26th at Salford Priors and the last at Brandon on April 21st.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Birchmoor 300450400400––––17260310340 Brandon area 50 1 351–––––60400260 Dosthill/Kingsbury area 140––––––––––– Draycote ––130–––––222251 Fenny Compton/ Wormleighton 370 85 160––––––1210080 Packwood ––––––––105200105– Bittell Reservoirs –––––––––140–– Bredon Hill – – – 50––––30115–– Lower Moor 1020 700 105 362–––––218186170 Sheriffs Lench – 150––––––––9528 Upton Warren 3540–––––––11– Barton GP 250125––––––––73– Belvide 300131401––––756357180 Black Bank 7–180300––––33100– Blithfield –––33––––1144601400 Branston Gravel Pit15014070––––––6001000 1200 Britannia Stadium ––––––––9250350– Chasewater 110 13 60––––––––– Crossplains ––450––––––200–– Cuckoo Bank 3030500400––––16703–

74 JFMAMJ JASOND Doxey Marshes 11–45–––––1–17 Keele University –9780800–––––––– Morridge 105 35 – 150 ––––4––– Park Hall CP 300–––––––––10– River Sow Meadows 40––––––––––135 Whitemoor Haye 40034–––––––––180 Marsh Lane 50 4 300––––––152700120

Warks Wintering flocks were generally smaller than average at both ends of the year; while at some usually regular sites such as Kingsbury and Draycote, records were at best erratic. The exception was a flock of up to 1200 near the M6 Toll Road at Wishaw during January, which may have contained birds usually present in the Tame Valley. Other good- sized counts during the first quarter included 300 at Marlcliff on January 27th, 110 at Hampton Lucy on February 2nd, 300 at Harbury Heath on 7th, 200 at Gaydon on 25th, and 300 flying south-east over Avon Dassett on March 3rd. Small flocks remained in the county until the first week in April, with the latest stragglers at Ladywalk (three) on 18th and Brandon on 21st. Autumn records commenced with singletons at Salford Priors GP on August 26th and Attleborough Fields on September 3rd, but the main influx did not begin until the second week in October. Away from tabulated sites, maxima included 115 near Hartshill STW on October 30th, 130 between Bretford and Brinklow on November 3rd, 300 flying north at Packington on 7th, 104 at Wootton Wawen on 11th, 130 at Attleborough Fields on December 3rd, 90 at Preston-on-Stour on 27th and 200 at Wellesbourne Airfield on 29th. Worcs In January, 305 were at Wick on 14th, 350 flew over Kempsey on 28th, then another 20 flew over the same locality on February 24th, while 128 were at Wythall on January 27th. Four early birds were on Bredon Hill on September 5th and one at Holt on 15th, was followed by seven at Throckmorton Lagoons on October 2nd, with ten there on 19th, while one was at Longdon Marsh on 5th and nine at Gwen Finch Wetland on 9th. November records comprised 200 at Ryall Pits on 10th and 19 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 16th, while in December, 130 were at Arrow Valley North on 16th. Staffs Two or three pairs may have bred in the north of the county, being seen at two sites, with one pair behaving as though protecting young. In the first winter period, records were submitted from an additional 15 untabulated sites, the higher counts comprising 115 at Tixall Canal on February 4th, 200 at Wall on March 1st, 200 at Butterton on 11th and 100 at Tatenhill Airfield on 25th. In the second winter period, 11 untabulated sites held records including 300 at Stoke – Sideway on November 11th and 110 on River Dove at Fauld on December 9th. W Mid Away from Marsh Lane NR, the only late winter birds were two at Dunstall Park on January 2nd and 32 on 26th, 150 at Wishaw on 10th January, two over West Bromwich on February 8th and 25 over Chelmsley Wood on March 11th. Later in the year, there were 18 at Blythe Valley CP on September 28th, one in Sandwell Valley on October 22nd, one at Dunstall Park on November 17th and between 200 and 560 at Mercote Mill Farm from November 3rd–25th. The high count of 700 at Marsh Lane NR was noted on November 11th.

2006 Addenda Warks A regular winter flock in the Beausale/Wedgnock Park area peaked at 150 on January 26th and 161 on December 16th.

75 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Draycote supplied most of the records, with singles on May 1st, September 25th, November 7th, and then two over on December 6th. The only other report was of a calling bird circling Alvecote on October 13th. Staffs One at Croxall NR on April 7th–10th may have been the same bird at White - moor Haye from 13th–15th. After this, a new bird arrived at Whitemoor Haye on 29th along with another at Blithfield which remained until May 1st. An adult male was a day visitor to Drayton Bassett Pits on May 20th. In the autumn, one at Blithfield on October 1st coincided with a juvenile at Belvide, the latter staying until the 17th and joined by a second bird from 8th–9th. Two very late passage birds were drawn to the low water levels at Blithfield on November 25th. W Mid One was seen briefly at Marsh Lane on May 13th.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 250 86 12 20 17 64 250 400 322 400 320 259 Charlecote/Wasperton 635 506 32 12 12 10 65 150 71 84 120 100 Dosthill/Kingsbury 360 480 – 12 13 25 – 177 70 – 85 70 Draycote 402006––1–404037300800 Salford Priors GP 107 350 95 39 36 470 750 420 185 155 190 3 Arrow Valley –––––––48–104–228 Bittell Reservoir 200170–3–168271505949016 Bredonʼs Hardwick – 334 469––43311088–34 Gwen Finch Wetland 10246411411948103461 Kinsham Lake 49 140 12 12 11 17 140 9 12 215 180 210 Longdon Marsh 1000 – 100––––––––– Lower Moor 600 1000–––––––––220 Upton Warren 930 850 4 8 14 50 70 90 112 450 570 1100 Alrewas 50 300 47 155––7415048122– Aqualate – 170–9–1–––3–150 Barton GP 1260 1720 56 31 18 62 – 15––3500 Belvide – 109 200 20 2 70 130 541 907 1200 400 80 Berry Hill 66–24112338504350– Black Bank/ Silverdale Colliery 14 41 1586730433335168 Blithfield 45 50 – 7 – 16 56 180 200 547 834 38 Branston Gravel Pits–8086––––500546–– Caltonmoor 20 200 304–––––4317065 Chasewater 538 71 24586523364130158186 Croxall NR 595 440 20 30 14 257 350 450 – 11 506 86 Cuckoo Bank –50302–1–––150200– Doxey Marshes 160 400 32 32 11 37 57 234 136 153 129 385 Drayton Bassett Pits 250 500 200 12 9 20 200 178 100 250 100 80 Elford Gravel Pits 100 7 8 12 4 1 25 200 120 150 40 – Ingestre – 80 5 – 14 12 – – 129––– Keele University 45661940231210––––– Kings Bromley GP 217 66 12 1681–––––– Millmeece 825 12 12––––––––– Morridge 25 65 11 – 34––––––– Radford Meadows 100 250 20–––––––200150 River Sow Meadows 250 49 28 16 12 – 2 54 75 – – 500

76 JFMAMJ JASOND Rocester 22728–––––––––– Rudyard Lake ––––––––3012088100 Tittesworth 14 44 17 7 13 16 58 94 230 200 170 145 Tixall Bridge 40185601816124015090––– Uttoxeter Quarry – – – 16 4 – 9 240 200 263 80 260 Westport Lake 8022–24––13––165 Whitemoor Haye 395500291622–14–––201 Whitmore – Bent Lane 95 80 15 14 16 56 – 30 89 10 60 80 Winnington – 2906––2–––––66 Dunstall Park 35 1275334135188302524120 Marsh Lane 57 260 53 32 21 82 200 300 176 372 400 519 Sandwell Valley 37 42 13 14 20 6 50 52 72 60 48 60 Stubbers Green 107 2 1354–27628416103110

Warks The total of 128 breeding pairs located at 38 sites was slightly better than recently. Pairs, singly unless otherwise stated, were distributed as follows: Abbots Salford (four), Alcester, Alvecote, Baxterley, Bramcote Hall, Brandon (seven), Burton Dassett, Charlecote GP (three), Chesterton (two), Coleshill (two), DMC Kineton (eight), Dordon (two), Dosthill/Kingsbury area (six), Farnborough (three), Frog Hall, Fulbrook (two), Gaydon (two), Haselor, Ladbroke, Ladywalk (four), Lapworth (two), Maxstoke, Morton Bagot (ten in area), Napton (two), Offchurch, Packington (at least nine in area), Priors Hardwick (six), , Salford Priors GP (17), Seeswood, Studley (two), Toft Farm Lakes (nine in area), Upper Radbourn, Wasperton (three), Wishaw, Wootton Wawen (eight) and Wormleighton. As with Golden Plover, wintering flocks were rather smaller than average at both ends of the year; with maxima during the first quarter also including 250 at Coton on January 5th, 300 at Wilmcote on 21st, 210 at Priors Hardwick on 23rd, 550 over Priors Marston on 27th, 250 at Alvecote on 28th, 200 at Hodnell on 30th and with up to 200 in Packington Park throughout the same month. In February flocks included 450 at Harbury Heath on February 7th, 250 at Chesterton on 21st and a peak of 300 at Radway on 22nd. Average flock size was even smaller in the autumn, with maxima away from tabulated localities only reaching 200 at Fenny Compton on October 6th, 200 at Farnborough on December 3rd and 300 on Wellesbourne Airfield on 29th. A partially white leucistic bird was reported at Kingsbury on September 25th. Worcs Breeding season records comprised five in fields north of Bittell Reservoirs in April, three pairs at Bredon’s Hardwick, six pairs at Grimley, many displaying birds were noted at Longdon Marsh, six pairs were noted with two young at Ryall Pits in June, three pairs were noted at Throckmorton Lagoons in April and at Upton Warren ten chicks hatched but only one bird fledged. Away from the tabulated sites the only notable counts comprised 65 at Wick on January 14th, 32 at Sedgeberrow on February 6th and 78 at Hewell Grange on December 10th, Staffs

Year 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding Pairs 350–354 284–302 284–302 280–297 346–357

This year, a comprehensive survey of the North Staffs Moors and additional reports from elsewhere, have boosted the breeding numbers back up to the 2003 level. However the 2007 RSPB survey of the whole Peak District shows a 50% drop in breeding numbers there since 2002.

77 Acton 8 pairs Forton 4 pairs Apedale CP 6–7 pairs, at least 5 Fradley 1 pair fledged 3 with chicks young Aqualate c5 pairs Greaves Wood 2 pairs Barton GP 1+ pair Grindon/Butterton Moor 9 pairs fledged 9 with chicks young Bateswood 5 pairs present, Hulme 3 pairs probably all failed Ingestre 2–3 pairs fledged at Beech 5 pairs, with chicks least 6 young Biddulph Moor 1 pair Keele (Yew Tree Farm) 5 pairs, 3 with Biddulph Valley 1 pair, probably failed young, at least Black Bank 7 pairs, 6 failed, probably fledged one with young Keele University 11–12 pairs, 6+ Blithfield 4 pairs, 3 with young fledged Young, only Kingʼs Bromley 2 pairs one juvenile Knotbury 3 pairs fledged Lawnhead 4 pairs, one with Blore 3 pairs, all failed young Blyth Marsh (South) 2 pairs Light Oaks 1 pair Bramshall West c5 pairs displaying Long Compton Farm 1 pair Brankley Farm 2 pairs Longsdon 1 pair Brindley Ford 1 pairs at Bemersley Lordsley GP 2 pairs Quarry Lower Hatton 12 pairs displayed Britannia Stadium 7–8 pairs, several 11 failed,one with fledged young young Bushton 8–9 pairs in Milford Bridge 4 pairs Stockley/Rolleston Park with 7 young. Millmeece 6 pairs Butterton (Newcastle) 4 pairs Moat Hall 3 pairs with young Caltonmoor 2 pairs Morridge area 17 pairs, fledged Chasewater 3–4 pairs, probably 10 young failed Musden Low 2 pairs Consall Valley 1 pair Needwood 1 pair Clay Mills STW 4 pairs Norbroom Marsh 9 pairs Cold Norton 2–3 pairs Orchard Common 1 pair Coldmeece 6 pairs, one Park House Farm 1–2 pairs juvenile Ranton 2 pairs Cotes Heath 7 pairs Reapsmoor 12 pairs Crossplains Wood 1 pair River Sow Meadows 8 pairs, no Crossplains 6 pairs, some with evidence of young chicks Round Knowl Farm 2 pairs, 2 young Croxall NR 7–8 pairs, several Seighford 1 pair with young Silverdale Colliery 3 pairs, probably fledged Cuckoo Bank 6 pairs displayed, 2 3 young nested Stableford 8 pairs, at least three Denstone 1 pair young fledged Dove Bridge 1–2 pairs Tameside NR 2 pairs, probably failed Doxey 21 pairs attempted, Three Shires Head 1 pair several with young. Tittesworth 2 pairs, one with young None fledged. Tixall Bridge 3 pairs, with young Draycott Quarry 1 pair Trentham Golf Course 1 pair Drayton Bassett Pits 3 pairs, all flooded Uttoxeter Quarry 5 pairs, one fledged out young. Drystone Edge 1 pair Weston Jones 3 pairs Dunstall Cross Roads 1 pair Weston Jones Mill 3 pairs Endon Bank 1 pair Wetley Moor 2 pairs Fair Lady Coppice 5 pairs, three with Whitemoor Haye 5 pairs, some with young young Fauld House 1 pair Whitmore Bent Lane 8 pairs, at least two Flash 6–7 pairs, two with juveniles fledged young Winnington 3 pairs, probably failed Foker Grange 1 pair Woodhead 2 pairs, probably failed

78 Larger counts from untabulated sites include 138 at Combridge in January; 240 at Ellenhall, 200 at Forton and 360 at Loggerheads in February; 300 at Wall in March; 100 at Park Farm in July; 100 at Crakemarsh Lake in November; 100 at Aston-by-Stone, 500 at Bottom House, 150 at Foker Grange, 100 at Katyn Memorial and 140 at Rugeley in December. W Mid Bird bred at Blythe Valley (about ten pairs), Dunstall Park (one pair raised two young), Marsh Lane NR (at least eleven pairs raised nine or ten young) and Sandwell Valley (at least ten pairs raised up to eight young). One or two birds were also noted at Aldridge and Lutley Wedge in April. The maximum count of 519 at Marsh Lane NR was noted on December 31st. Other high counts included 98 in Blythe Valley on February 5th, 54 at Minworth STW on 23rd and 140 at Cornets End on 26th. Up to 30 birds were occasionally seen at Berkswell, Coombeswood, Lime Pits Farm, Mercote Mill Farm, Milburn Grange, Reedswood Park, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks The year began with a single bird at Kingsbury from January 1st–8th, and a party of four at Draycote on 18th. Draycote also had birds on return passage, with a long- staying juvenile from September 19th–28th and three on October 8th. Finally, after a night of heavy rain, an unusual report was of a bird found walking down a suburban road in Shipston-on-Stour on November 19th MHu. Worcs Two juveniles at Upper Bit- tell Reservoir on September 15th and 16th, were followed by another bird at the same locality from 17th–19th. The only other record was of one at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 19th. Staffs This year there were 26–27 birds compared with just seven birds in 2006 and 84 in 2005. The only spring bird was seen at Barton GP on May 29th. Autumn/winter passage was far Red Knot, Blithfield, Steve Seal better, commencing with six at Barton GP on August 19th, one at Blithfield on September 8th, Chasewater on 11th, a juvenile at Blithfield 14th–17th with it or another from 20th–23rd and a further juvenile from 28th–30th. In October, just one at Belvide on 9th, then a flurry of birds in November commencing with three at Blithfield on 6th, Chasewater on 10th, a juvenile at Blithfield 14th–21st, Belvide and Tittesworth on 19th, Uttoxeter Quarry on 20th, four at Belvide on 21st, one remaining until 22nd and two at Blithfield on 23rd, one (a juvenile) remaining until 29th.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Warks A sparse spring passage was limited to two at Ladywalk on April 11th and two more at Draycote on 19th. On return passage there were singles at Draycote on July 20th and September 18th, with two late birds flying through here on November 28th. Worcs Spring passage commenced with one at Bittell Reservoirs on May 14th, while two were at Grimley on May 24th, one of which was still present the following day, with another two present on 30th.

79 Staffs Another good year, with 48-55 birds in total, compared with 52 in 2006. Spring passage commenced quite late with the first bird at Chasewater on May 4th, followed soon after by one at Drayton Bassett Pits on 6th which also hosted four on 14th, one 18th–19th and two 24th, two at Barton GP on 12th, six on 19th and one on 28th, one at Blithfield on 12th, six on 14th, one on 15th, 18th, 23rd–27th and one at Ingestre on 15th. Later in the month, seven arrived at Blithfield on 30th, three on 31st and four on June 1st but it is unclear whether these are the same or different. Also in June there was one at Barton GP on 2nd and four on 10th, then singles at Croxall NR on July 3rd, Blithfield on 23rd and 25th, Croxall on August 3rd, Belvide 11th, Blithfield 19th and 23rd–27th. W Mid May records involved one at Marsh Lane NR on 14th, one at Bartley Reservoir on 15th and two on 25th.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring and winter. Warks Ten juveniles were recorded in the autumn, easily the best total at this season since 2001. The first were singles at Kingsbury on September 24th and Salford Priors GP on 30th, with two at Kingsbury on October 1st and one at Ladywalk on 3rd–4th. Draycote attracted two on October 2nd–3rd, three on 4th, and then singles on 9th and 16th. Worcs A juvenile at Longdon Marsh on September 20th, was followed by two at Clifton on 23rd and 24th and another two at Longdon Marsh on 26th. One was at Upper Bittell Reservoir briefly on 29th and one there from 30th, was joined by another one on October 4th, with both birds remaining until 10th, then a further single from 13th–17th, while two at Grimley on 7th, were followed by another there from 14th–18th. Staffs An adult in summer plumage passed through Blithfield on June 15th. The first autumn bird was a juvenile at Belvide from September 7th–13th, followed by one at Blithfield from 13th–16th, then two at Drayton Bassett Pits on October 1st, one of these lingering until 12th, one at Doxey on 13th, two at Blithfield on 21st, another from 24th until November 5th, one at Alrewas Junction Pit on October 31st and finally three late birds at Blithfield on November 25th.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Warks A juvenile at Brandon on October 10th BMCG, stayed for just ten minutes before heading north. Staffs A poor year with just one flying through Belvide on November 5th SNu.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring. Warks A juvenile at Draycote on September 22nd was the only record. Worcs An excellent passage of juveniles occurred during the autumn, the first of which was noted at Grimley on September 10th, while one at Holt on 13th, was also noted there and at Grimley on 14th and two at Upton Warren the next day lingered until 24th. Three were at Upper Bittell Reservoir from 19th, rising to four on 24th, with three still present on 25th. Three made a brief visit to Grimley on 24th, while another one was there briefly the following day and a single at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 29th remained until October 10th. Staffs A good improvement on last year’s total of four birds, with a single at Barton GP on September 9th and a juvenile at Branston Gravel Pits from 9th–10th, then three

80 juveniles lingered at Blithfield from 12th–15th and were joined by two more from 16th–22nd, with just one of these staying until 23rd. One visited Branston GP on 22nd, another at Croxall on 24th and finally three at Drayton Bassett Pits and a juvenile at Doxey on October 5th.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––4111––2––1– Dosthill/Kingsbury –––1–––12––– Draycote ––––2–52312– Ladywalk ––129––––1–– Salford Priors GP ––11––1421–– Bittell Reservoirs –––416––133–– Bredonʼs Hardwick 38411––––––7 Clifton Pits ––––4––1–––– Grimley –––324–12311– Gwen Finch Wetland ––––1–––12–– Holt ––––3––3–––– Longdon Marsh ––––––––5––– Lower Moor ––1110––91––– Ryall Pits ––––4––––––– Throckmorton –––––––12––– Upton Warren –––335–14411– Barton GP –2–176–920–––– Belvide –211382523651 Blithfield –––141–41212143924 Branston Gravel Pits–––1––––434– Chasewater ––4–4–––––1– Croxall NR 222–4–23–––– Doxey Marshes –3611–––131– Drayton Bassett Pits––1374–33553– Tittesworth –––116––––21– Uttoxeter Quarry –––1–––2––1– Whitemoor Haye 2310645––––––– Marsh Lane –1362715234––

Warks The best counts occurred on spring passage, with a maximum of 11 at Brandon on May 14th. Away from tabulated sites, one or two were noted at Coleshill GP on various dates during April 28th–May 26th, with a peak of five on May 15th, while three were at Morton Bagot on May 14th. Return passage produced a single bird at Alvecote on August 8th, while Charlecote GP attracted five on 16th and three on 17th. Worcs See tabulated localities. Staffs Some impressive May counts comprised 41 at Blithfield and 74 at Drayton Bassett Pits on 11th, 45 at Whitemoor Haye on 12th and 76 at Barton GP on 19th. Untabulated records came from Blake Hall Fishery on March 3rd, Cuckoo Bank 15th, Rudyard Lake May 7th, two at Silverdale Colliery on 11th, Westport Lake on 11th and 14th, Clay Mills STW on August 1st, two at Coley Brook Marsh 18th–19th and one on October 7th, Silverdale Colliery 8th, Westport 14th and three on the River Dove at Fauld on November 20th–21st. W Mid At Sandwell Valley, one stayed a few days in April, two visited on May 18th and single birds were noted on 20th, July 27th and October 30th. Single birds were seen at Dunstall Park on May 14th and October 7th, and three were at Ryders Mere on May 15th.

81 Ruff Philomachus pugnax Frequent passage migrant, though in variable numbers. Scarce in winter. Warks It was a very poor year by all standards, with Brandon missing out for the first time in 15 years. Spring passage was limited to the Tame Valley, with two at Kingsbury on March 23rd, followed by two different birds at Coleshill GP on May 4th and 6th, and perhaps one of these at nearby Ladywalk on May 5th–6th. The first return bird was seen at Alvecote on August 9th, with singles following at Charlecote GP on 16th, Kingsbury from 22nd–24th, Salford Priors GP on 26th and Draycote from September 9th–17th. The last was at Salford Priors GP on September 30th. Worcs Males were at Bury End River Flash on July 19th, Grimley on 21st and Ryall Pits on 29th, while in August juveniles were at Holt from 16th–20th and 23rd, Longdon Marsh on 20th and three juveniles were at Clifton Pits from 25th–27th with one still present on September 1st and 2nd. Further September records comprised one at Holt on 17th, an adult at Upton Warren on 23rd, one at Grimley and five at Kinsham Lake on 24th and a juvenile at Ryall Pits on 30th, was still present on October 19th. Other October records comprised one at Longdon Marsh from 3rd–8th, one at Grimley on 7th and juvenile males at Grimley on 8th and Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th. Staffs

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Barton GP 3–1––––21––– Blithfield ––––––––281– Branston Gravel Pit ––41––––3312 Drayton Bassett Pits––2––––223–– Untabulated records came from Whitemoor Haye where two were present from February 15th–18th and one on May 10th, Aqualate on August 23rd, Doxey on August 30th– September 4th with another on 8th, two at Croxall on 6th, two at Belvide on October 3rd and one there on 25th. W Mid One at Ryders Mere on July 21st was the second record for the site. Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: September 26th (66) to April 22nd (62). 8-year average: September 16th (–10 days) to April 20th (–2 days). The first bird was not sighted until October 2nd at Throckmorton Lagoons, much later than in recent years while the last bird lingered until April 29th at priors Hardwick.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 1–11–––––121 Ladywalk ––4––––––11– Lighthorne Quarry 2853––––––25 Priors Hardwick 5541––––––11 Salford Priors GP 61171–––––311 Wasperton 11–––––––112 Abberton 888–––––––11 Bittell Reservoirs –––––––––1–– Castlemorton 653––––– 115 Clifton Pits 6––––––––1–– Grimley 223––––––64– Gwen Finch Wetland –1–––––––152 Kinsham Lake 526–––––––99

82 JFMAMJ JASOND Ryall Pits 1–––––––––41 Upton Warren 21211––––111 Bateswood NR ––3––––––––2 Blithfield –1–––––––312 Branston Water Park1–––––––––1– Chasewater 53–1–––––311 Croxall NR –42––––––321 Cuckoo Bank 107112–––––411 Doxey Marshes –29––––––1–1 Hanchurch Woods ––4–––––––3– Hill Ridware 253–––––––––

Warks Extreme dates were April 29th (a late date) at Priors Hardwick and October 5th at Ladywalk, apart from an undated record from Bedworth Nook in September. Away from the tabulated sites, singles were also noted during the late winter period at Coombe Abbey on January 21st, Fisher’s Mill Meadow on 29th, Draycote on February 8th and Coton on March 11th. In the autumn, there was one at Bedworth Nook and two at Dosthill Lake on October 26th, up to two at Morton Bagot from 28th–November 4th, and singles at Draycote on December 11th and Alvecote from at least 16th–22nd. Worcs Singles were noted at Holt on February 7th, Throckmorton Tip on 10th and Ashmoor Common on 15th, while in April two were at Ashmoor Common on 6th and in May a very late bird was noted at Upton Warren on 10th and 16th. In October one was at Throck morton Lagoons on 2nd. Staffs The high counts from Cuckoo Bank came on January 1st and March 1st, but numbers at Doxey were well down on previous years due to the inaccessibility of some areas for survey work. Untabulated records, in January, came from Alrewas GP, Barton GP, Black Bank (two), Denstone and Tittesworth; in February from Alrewas Junction Pit, Barton GP, Ingestre, and Tixall Jack Snipe, Adam Holliday Bridge (two); in April from Pool Dam (three); October from Branston GP; November from Belvide (two) and Pipe Green and December from Caverswall Cricket Club, Coombes Valley and Stableford. W Mid In the first winter period, single birds were seen in Goscote Valley on January 24th, February 14th and Marsh 22nd. During the second winter period, an impressive ten birds were counted in Sandwell Valley on October 22nd. Otherwise, singles were noted at Marsh Lane NR from October 7th into December, with two birds on October 13th and 20th, plus one at Dunstall Park on November 3rd and 5th, and December 2nd.

2006 Addendum Warks One at Coombe Abbey on December 17th.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 11 11 1181112013431930 Kingsbury 108 100 3363––1018352761 Ladywalk 10 10 202–––12151075 Lighthorne Quarry 7 9 16 10–––––––11 Priors Hardwick 12 14 25 201––11–1025 Salford Priors GP 2731206––13311252227 Wasperton 6291625–––2623151837 Abberton 12 13 ––––––––1848 Arrow Valley North 15 13 –1–––––––2 Ashmoor Common155–20––––––4– Bittell Reservoirs –––––––1–23– Bredonʼs Hardwick ––––––––6133– Castlemorton Common1411–––––7–21 Clifton Pits 1719102–––3036282623 Grimley 1621131–––2125322835 Gwen Finch Wetland 21 30 25 20––112760784646 Holt 513–––––48879 Kinsham Lake 1730252011112108533 Lower Moor 27 36 822––1818429560 Ryall Pits –25–1––35080–25– Upton Warren 1125204–––2215303043 Bateswood CP 55––––––––––10 Belvide 716435––2917214026 Berry Hill 25––1––––5–12– Black Bank/ Silverdale Colliery 24 29 37–––––16445746 Blithfield 7––2–1–313722359 Branston Gravel Pits–––1––––114020– Branston Water Park6–––––––––4025 Chasewater 22 21 –31––111362510 Coley Brook Marsh –––––––30105–– Croxall NR 3 7 211–––6–11315 Cuckoo Bank 1472610––––813521 Doxey Marshes 21179224306–86530112155159 Drayton Bassett Pits3651151––26101085 Hanchurch Woods – – 151––––––265 Hill Ridware 19 6 262–––––––– Keele University –25––––––––5863 River Sow Meadows 2 18 4 12––––32–6 Stableford –––––––––33035 Tittesworth 2834203–––517946943 Tixall Bridge 19027–––3–9–– Uttoxeter Quarry –––2––––122–12 Dunstall Park 56 61 82 16–––18424758 Goscote Valley 5411–––––493 Marsh Lane 4687211491589 Sandwell Valley 25 19 3811––11530218 Warks There were further promising signs that this species might one day return to the county as a breeding species. Display was noted at Ladywalk on March 5th, while one of a pair was heard drumming at Alvecote during April. Up to two were also present at Coombe Abbey throughout the breeding season. Both Kingsbury and Wasperton held good concentrations during the late winter period, while maxima away from the main sites included 35 at Fisher’s Mill GP on January 29th, 15 at Knightcote on February 3rd, 20 at

84 Draycote on 19th, 23 at Wootton Wawen STW on 25th, 14 at Charlecote GP on August 16th, ten at Morton Bagot on October 31st, 14 at Toft Farm Lakes on November 1st, ten at Wormleighton Res on December 9th and 32 at Wootton Pool on 30th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, six were at Longdon Marsh on August 2nd, while 17 were there on 20th, nine at Bury End Flash on 9th and 18 at Lickmoor Wetland on 30th. Fifteen were at Throckmorton Lagoons on October 28th and 26 were at Throckmorton Lagoons on November 12th. Staffs 94 at Tittesworth on October 14th was thought to be a site record. Wintering numbers at Doxey were well down on previous years but this is due to flooding preventing complete surveys. Ten birds were noted drumming/chipping/on territory on the North Staffs Moors at eight sites. This too is well down on recent years, but could be due to lower coverage. Five pairs attempted at Doxey but no young were seen. One was seen chipping at Blithfield in mid-April, single pairs may have bred at Cuckoo Bank and Gentleshaw Common, and two were present at Aqualate in June. Widespread reports were received from many untabulated sites during the winter periods, double-figure counts consisting of 14 at Ingestre in March; 17 at Barton GP in August; 12 at Revidge in October; 12 at Clay Mills, 28 at Gailey Reservoir and 11 at Whitmore Bent Lane in November; 10 at Cavers - wall Cricket Club and 70 at Harpers Gate in December. W Mid Up to six birds were noted during the first winter period at Blythe Valley CP, Coundon Wedge, Lutley Wedge, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP and Sutton Park, with up to five at Brueton Park, Burbury and Coundon Wedge in the second.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks Bentley Woods was again the only site in the county to report roding birds, with up to three noted on several dates during April-June. A bird flushed at Coombe Abbey on April 15th, June 18th and August 12th, suggests that breeding may also still occur in that area. Outside the breeding season birds were noted at 29 sites, with the largest counts comprising three in Ryton Wood on January 2nd, three at Brandon on November 26th and four in Bunkers Hill Wood on December 13th. Extreme dates of winter visitors were April 6th and October 28th, both at Avon Dassett; apart from an early bird at Birchmoor on September 15th. Worcs During the breeding season roding birds were noted at Chaddesley Wood, Devil’s Spittleful, Seckley Wood and the Wyre Forest (two). During January singles were at Lower Moor on 2nd, Severn Stoke STW on 5th, Kinsham on 7th and Grimley on 10th, while two were at Abberton on 21st. In February singles were at Lower Moor on 2nd, Bredon Hill on 8th, Gwen Finch Wetland on 9th, two on Castlemorton Common on 11th, two at Rodge Hill on 20th, two in the Wyre Forest on 21st and one at Shaver’s End on 25th, while in March one was at Brook on 13th. Later in the year singles were on Bredon Hill on October 11th, Kempsey Common on 25th and Arrow Valley Lake on 31st and during November, one was noted at Kinsham Lake on 8th and 12th, with three here on 14th and two on 19th, while singles were at Bredon Hill on 15th, Grimley, Old Storridge and near Tardebigge Reservoir on 17th, Cofton Richards Farm on 22nd, and Hallow on 27th. Finally, in December three were at Lower Moor from 1st–12th and singles were at Wood Norton on 6th, Abberton on 9th, Castlemorton Common on 16th and 27th, Midsummer Hill on 22nd and Upton Warren and Tiddesley Wood on 26th. Staffs Roding/summering birds were recorded throughout Cannock Chase (thought to represent 15–20 breeding pairs), plus Consall CP, Coombes Valley RSPB, Hawksmoor,

85 Hollinsclough, Kinver Edge, Maer Hills and Swallow Moss. In the first winter period, birds were recorded at Aqualate (two), Belvide, Bishops Wood (two), Blithfield, Chase- water, Copmere, Keele University, Kings Bromley GP and Thorswood (two). In the second winter period, there were far more birds around, including 20 flushed during an all day shoot in the east of the county. In October singles, were seen at Baggeridge CP, Holden Lane Pools and Moat Hall; in November at Aqualate, Belvide, Bilbrook, Brackenhurst, Bromley Park (six), Colshaw, Crossplains (four), Cuckoo Bank, Dosthill, Elford GP, Hoar Cross (two), Leyfields (two), Pipe Gate, Thick Withens and Woodhead; in December at Aqualate, Blithfield, Brackenhurst (two), Bromley Park (six), Chasewater, Hanchurch Woods (five), Hoar Cross (two), Hollies Common (seven), Hollington, Lum Edge, Newcastle-u-Lyme, Upper Tean, Weston Jones and Woodside Farm W Mid Noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, for the fourth year in the last eight. Single birds were seen at Saltwells LNR on February 8th and April 1st, Blythe Valley CP on February 19th, Smestow Valley on April 5th, Brueton Park on November 11th and Sutton Park on 26th. One was found dead on playing fields in Edgbaston in November.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks Not such a good passage this year, probably not helped by high water levels at the main sites. In spring, singles were present at Ladywalk on March 24th and Brandon from 27th–29th, followed by a party of nine at Kingsbury on April 8th of which two stayed to 11th. Final singles were noted at Brandon again on April 13th and Draycote on May 1st. Return passage commenced with two at Kingsbury on July 7th, 11th and 14th possibly involving the same birds, and singles at both Brandon and Draycote on July 10th. There followed a series of records from the Tame and Anker Valleys, probably involving the same trio of birds. Three were at Ladywalk on August 27th–28th, three at Alvecote from 30th–September 5th (but not always present), three flew south at Kingsbury on September 4th and three were again at Ladywalk on 6th. A single bird was then at Kingsbury on September 12th, Ladywalk on 15th and Coton on 16th. During the same period singles also visited Brandon on August 14th, and Draycote on August 29th–September 8th and from 17th–26th. A late bird was at Brandon on October 26th, followed by five at Draycote on November 12th and one on December 11th. Worcs The first record of the year was one that flew over Abberton on March 3rd and during the month singles flew over Abberton on 11th, Trench Wood on 13th and Berkeley Pendesham (Worcester) on 12th and 15th. Two were at Upton Warren from 27th– 29th, with one remaining until April 14th, while two lingered at Grimley from 4th– 6th, with one remaining until April 14th. One was at Lower Moor on 5th and 6th, while two were heard calling over the Wyre Forest on 21st. Return passage commenced during the second week of June with singles flying south over Monk Wood on 13th and Lower Moor on 14th. Twenty Icelandic birds were at Upton Warren on July 4th, with nine present on 6th, one on 7th and 8th, two on 9th and six on 10th. Further records comprised singles over Kempsey on 11th, Hartlebury Common on 15th, eight at Upton Warren on 18th, with 13 there on 23rd and two were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 31st. During August two at Lower Moor and one at Upton Warren on 2nd, were followed by two at the latter site from 6th– 8th, with one remaining until 9th, then a further three on 15th, while singles were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th and Upton Warren on 25th. Upper Bittell Reservoir hosted a singles on September 11th, October 1st and 9th, with two here on 10th and one from 13th–17th.

86 Staffs

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide –––101–1110––1– Blithfield –––––1212114– Doxey Marshes ––––1––2–1–– Drayton Bassett Pits––––––51–1–– Untabulated records were from Coldmeece on April 7th, four at Whitemoor Haye on 27th, 17 on the flooded River Dove at Fauld on July 6th, two at Sutton on 24th, 26 on floods at Catholme and 12 at Croxall on 28th, one of the latter remaining until 30th. In August, there were two at Barton GP on 12th, singles at Croxall on 13th and Branston GP on 27th, and finally one at Branston GP on October 21st. W Mid Single birds visited Marsh Lane NR on October 7th and 23rd. One was also recorded at Ryders Mere.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks A good spring passage opened with a party of 26 at Ladywalk on March 24th. A concentrated passage over a six day period during easterly winds from April 28th–May 3rd brought at least 54 birds to three sites. Draycote had most, with two feeding in meadows there throughout the six days, but with totals of 39 through there early morning on April 30th and nine more early on May 1st. Kingsbury also had singles on April 29th and May 3rd, while Brandon had a breed- ing-plumaged bird on April 29th–30th, followed by another in non-breeding dress on May 1st–2nd. Singles at Draycote on November 8th and 25th were the only subsequent records. Bar-tailed Godwits, Marsh Lane NR, Steve Seal Worcs A record county flock of 26 was noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir briefly on April 28th, while three at Upton Warren the following day remained until May 2nd. Staffs Ten birds this year, compared with 8, 15 and 13 in the previous three. Spring passage occurred over just five days, the first at Berry Hill on April 28th, then Doxey 29th–May 1st, two at Whitemoor Haye 29th–May 2nd and Stanley Pool on May 1st. On return passage singles were seen at Belvide on September 19th, October 3rd, Drayton Bassett Pits on October 8th, Tittesworth on 9th and Blithfield on November 9th. W Mid Three arrived at Marsh Lane NR on April 29th, one staying until May 4th. Another remained at Ryders Mere from May 28th–29th.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Warks The first spring migrant spent the morning feeding in a meadow at Napton Res on April 18th, followed by singles flying north at Wormleighton Res on 20th and Salford

87 Priors GP on 22nd. Singles passed through Draycote on April 24th and Kingsbury on the evening of 25th, while grounded birds were at both Draycote and Morton Bagot on 30th. Five flew north at Draycote on May 1st, with one circling there on 4th before heading off to the north-east, and one at Kingsbury on 5th. On May 11th a party of ten circled over the Avon meadows at Hampton Lucy, three were at Ladywalk and a single bird visited Brandon; while a bird at Draycote on 12th concluded spring passage. Return passage was as usual rather less prominent, but began with a good-sized party of eight flying over Brandon on July 21st. Subsequent records included two flying south at Fisher’s Mill GP on July 26th, two through Alvecote on August 15th, and singles over Draycote on 21st, Fisher’s Mill GP on 23rd and lastly, Brandon on 26th. Worcs Spring passage commenced with one at Grimley on April 24th and 25th, while one flew over Lower Moor on 26th and two at Upton Warren the same day were noted intermittently until 28th, with three there on 30th and May 1st, two still on 2nd and one on 6th. Singles observed at Lower Moor on 1st, Clifton Pits on 2nd and Grimley on 9th, were followed by five brief staying birds at Upton Warren the following day, while a flock of five were noted at Shenstone on 14th, two were at Kinsham Lake on 16th, with one there on 18th, one flew north over Lower Moor on 24th and another was at Grimley on 30th. There was just one autumn record of a bird heard calling over Monk Wood on July 25th. Staffs An above average year with 35 in spring (41, 34 and 22 the past three years), seven in the summer and 16 in autumn (six, 10 and 50 in the past three). Spring passage commenced at Blithfield with a singles on April 19th and 20th, two on 27th and singles on May 6th – 7th, 11th, 18th and 23rd. At Belvide, the first was on April 29th, then two on May 6th, two on 10th, one on 11th and two on 20th. At Whitemoor Haye the first was also on April 29th, then one on May 1st, two on 2nd, four on 3rd, one on 5th and 13th. Elsewhere, one at Croxden Quarry on April 20th, three at Tittesworth on 29th, singles at Barton GP on May 6th, Keele University on 8th, Biddulph Moor and Chasewater on 10th, three at Drayton Bassett Pits on 11th and Barton GP on 11th – 12th. Unseasonal summer birds were noted at Blithfield on June 24th and six at Barton GP on 26th. Return passage started at Croxall when one passed through on July 16th, then singles at Blithfield on 21st, Dunstall Lane Tamworth on 22nd, two at Drayton Bassett Pits on 26th, singles at Blithfield on 29th, Croxall on 30th, Belvide on August 5th and 12th, two at Whitemoor Haye on 12th, singles at Croxall on 13th, Chasewater and Whitemoor Haye on 19th and finally one over Milton on 28th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, single birds were present on April 23rd and 29th, with four on May 8th. One flew over Clayhanger on May 11th and one was heard calling from Dunstall Park during the early hours of July 19th.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Ladywalk/Lea Marston – 10 54–177664– Bredonʼs Hardwick –234–––––––– Grimley ––224261–––– Upton Warren 26 41 19 5 3 20 52 54 36 42 32 23 Belvide –893611531–– Blake Hall Fishery – – 19111–––––– Blithfield –1–523521––– Branston Gravel Pit –13712–161710121315 Croxden Quarry – 19 2252315–––

88 JFMAMJ JASOND Keele University ––4224–––––– Musden Low ––1142–––––– Revidge ––142–1––––– Tittesworth 1891403553042–––– Marsh Lane –1–11–113–––

Warks This fine wader continues to decline in all parts of the county. Pairs were reported in the breeding season at: Alcester, Baginton, DMC Kineton, Morton Bagot, Sherbourne (two), Stretton-on-Fosse, Studley and Tysoe; but negative reports came from formerly regular sites at Kingsbury Rifle Ranges, Maxstoke, Preston-on-Stour and Spernall. Chick productivity seems now to be very low and it is probably only the species longevity that keeps it as a breeding species in the county. Away from localities already listed, there were occasional records of one-three at: Brandon, Coombe Abbey, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Kingsbury, Priors Hardwick, Seeswood Pool, Shustoke, Toft Farm Lakes and Wormleighton Res; and in every month. Worcs Breeding season records comprised pairs in suitable habitat at Bredon’s Hard - wick (two), Bury End Flash, Eckington Meadows (two+), Longdon Marsh, Pensax, Throckmorton Drome and Witnell’s End. Other records comprised singles at Stoke Bliss on February 25th, Longdon Marsh on March 10th, Ryall Pits on June 10th, Wick on July 21st and Bittell Reservoirs on August 31st. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Lask Edge (pair with young), Moss Carr (pair with chicks) and Woodmill (pair with two chicks). Four adults and a juvenile at Tittesworth on June 28th suggests breeding nearby, perhaps at Meerbrook. In total, 67-68 pairs were recorded breeding, calling or displaying (cf. 64-65 in 2006, 59-61 in 2005, 102 in 2004), predominantly on the North Staffs Moors: Agardsley Park, Alstonefield, Biddulph Moor, Blake Low, Blithfield (two), Blore, Boarsgrove, Brown Edge (three), Caltonmoor (two- three), The Cloud (two), Crossplains, Eland Brook, Eland Lodge, Foker Grange, Goldsitch Moss (two), Gradbach Hill, Grindon Moor, Gun Hill (three), Holt Hill, Hulme (two+), Hulme End (three), Ipstones Edge, Keele University, Knotbury (three), Lum Edge, Meer - brook (two), Moat Hall, Moss Carr, Mosslee Hall Farm, Musden Low (two), Old Mixon Hay, Orchard Common, Pershall North, Readyleach Green, Revidge, River Dove at Fauld, River Manifold at Longnor, Round Knowl Farm, Stanshope (two), Swallow Moss (two), Three Shires Head, Waterfall, Wetley Moor (two) and Wolf Edge. Wintering/passage birds in the early months were recorded at 33 untabulated sites, with larger counts of 13 at Barton GP on January 6th, 11 at Coal Brook, Hales on February 11th, 12 at Barton GP on 18th and 17 at Clay Mills on March 7th. In the autumn/late winter period small numbers were recorded at ten untabulated sites. W Mid The only other records involved two in Sandwell Valley on February 21st, one at Lutley Wedge on April 5th and two on 6th, and two over Smestow Valley on 20th.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant, very rare in winter. Worcs Two adults were noted at Upton Warren on September 12th and two juveniles at Longdon Marsh on 24th. Staffs One at Coley Brook Marsh on August 14th–15th and a juvenile at Branston GP on September 15th were the only records.

89 Common Redshank Tringa totanus Frequent passage migrant and summer resident. Uncommon winter visitor. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––596531–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 5682111–––44 Draycote ––11––21111– Ladywalk ––5322––––21 Salford Priors GP ––122–1––––– Bredonʼs Hardwick 1–62–––––––– Grimley ––526––––––– Gwen Finch Wetland ––1357–––––– Kinsham Lake –12111–––––– Lower Moor ––44211––1–– Ryall Pits –––666–––––– Upton Warren –2243322–––– Alrewas Pits –2–6–––––2–– Barton GP 5–3885911––1 Belvide –13423211111 Blithfield ––2221152441 Branston Gravel Pit ––41––––1131 Chasewater –––11––1–––– Croxall NR 22 21 19392431237 Doxey Marshes –11116541–2111 Drayton Bassett Pits2266105511–31 Whitemoor Haye –10885411–112 Marsh Lane –168814143–––– Sandwell Valley ––342––1––––

Warks Six breeding pairs were located, with two at Brandon (at least two young fledged), three at Coleshill GP (all failed due to flooding) and one at Ladywalk. A seventh pair present at Abbots Salford during the spring may also have bred, as a very young juvenile was seen at nearby Salford Priors GP on July 8th. Other records from the Tame Valley included wintering singles at both Coton and Shustoke; while elsewhere there were singles at Charlecote GP on March 6th, Morton Bagot on April 21st and June 10th, Abbots Salford on August 21st, Charlecote GP again on 22nd, and Toft Farm Lakes on October 9th. Worcs Although several pairs were present at traditional nesting sites, there were no reports of a successful outcome. Away from the tabulated localities, two were at Longdon Marsh on April 9th and two at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 15th. Staffs

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding Pairs (Successful) 5(2) 13–14(4–5) 8(4) 8(2) 7(1) 9(1) 10–13(2) A slight improvement over the past two years, but success remains extremely poor. A pair bred to the west of Belvide but the chicks were soon predated; of eight pairs at Doxey only one fledged one or two young, one pair at Drayton Bassett Pits fledged one young with perhaps one or two other pairs attempting, and a pair displayed at River Sow Meadows. As last year, despite breeding season birds being reported from Croxall (seven birds) and Whitemoor Haye (four birds), no indication of breeding was submitted. Untabulated records comprised birds at Tixall on March 7th, Tittesworth 13th with two on 22nd, King’s Bromley GP on 16th, Silverdale Colliery on 23rd, Tittesworth on April 13th, Dosthill on 15th, Coley Brook Marsh on May 30th, Silverdale Colliery on August 24th and September 27th, Uttoxeter Quarry on October 14th, Tittesworth and two at Rudyard on November 19th, four on River Dove at Fauld November 21st–23rd, Broad Heath on 23rd and Rudyard on 24th.

90 W Mid Four pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, two each fledging three young. A pair also attempted to nest in Sandwell Valley. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote –––––––33––– Brandon –––31––21––– Dosthill/Kingsbury –––1–––311–– Draycote ––––1––11––– Ladywalk –––1–––9211– Salford Priors GP ––––––251––– Bury End Flash –––––––31––– Clifton Pits –––––––55––– Grimley ––––––131––– Holt –––––––6–––– Lower Moor –––1–––2–––– Upton Warren ––––––322––– Barton GP ––––––163––– Belvide –––11––12––– Blithfield –––12––311–– Branston Gravel Pit ––––1––111–– Chasewater –––1–––1–––– Croxall NR –––––––12–1– Doxey Marshes ––––––131––– Drayton Bassett Pits–––121–781–– Whitemoor Haye –––12–22–––– Warks 2007 was a much better year after three consecutive poor ones. Spring passage ran from April 28th–May 23rd, with three at Brandon on April 29th the best count. Return passage extended from July 29th–October 17th with a notice- able peak in late August when there were maxima of five at Salford Priors GP on 26th and nine at Ladywalk on 28th. A late bird was seen at both Coton and Ladywalk on November 9th. Away from tabulated localities there were two at Coleshill GP on April 30th, with one staying to May 2nd; while autumn records included three at Alvecote on August 9th, two at Charlecote GP Greenshank, Draycote, Steve Seal on 22nd, up to three at Whitacre Heath NR on 26th–30th, and singles at Coton on 29th, Morton Bagot on 29th–30th, and Napton Res also on 30th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, singles were noted at Bittell Reservoirs on May 19th, Pirton Pool on September 15th and Ryall Pits on 30th. Staffs First seen at Whitemoor Haye on April 19th and last seen at Branston GP on October 28th, then Croxall on a very late date of November 25th. Untabulated records were received from Tittesworth on April 29th, three at Knypersley Reservoir on May 4th, two at

91 Westport on August 13th, three at Radford Meadows on 23rd, two at Shugborough Park on 24th, three at Little Wyrley on 25th, Aqualate on 28th, Gailey Reservoir on September 3rd and two at Elford GP on 29th. W Mid All records occurred during August: at Marsh Lane NR, single birds were present on 5th, 11th and 28th, with two on 24th; and at Ryders Mere, one was noted on 27th.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 4311––2972–1 Brandon 12221158611– Charlecote GP ––11––2432–– Coleshill GP ––21–24412–– Kingsbury area ––21––13321– Ladywalk 2122–114432– Lighthorne Pools 11–111131––3 Salford Priors GP 3389–31521111086 Toft Farm Lakes ––11––3312–– Bittell Reservoirs 22––––––1211 Clifton Pits 1––1–––103–7– Grimley –11–––15221– Gwen Finch Wetland –––––242–––– Holt –––––––6–––– Longdon Marsh –––1–––1–––– Lower Moor 4211––142––2 Ryall ––––––5731–2 Throckmorton 2111–––41––3 Upton Warren 1143–512116221 Aqualate –––1–––111–– Barton GP 1–1––––51––– Belvide 1111––112212 Blithfield –––1–1–5524– Branston Gravel Pit –14–––222423 Clay Mills ––––––28––1– Croxall NR ––––––112––– Doxey Marshes –––121421–1– Drayton Bassett Pits344321686752 Ingestre –321–––1–––3 Uttoxeter Quarry ––63–1244667 Dunstall Park ––11––111––– Marsh Lane –11111213211 Warks The last spring birds were at Brandon and Lighthorne Pools on May 5th while the first returning migrants were at the same two sites on June 17th. Away from tabulated sites there were also peaks of five at Alvecote on August 14th and six at Whitacre Heath NR on September 21st, while one or two birds were noted (often on a regular basis) at: Alcester, Baginton Lagoons, Coombe Abbey, Coton/Lea Marston area, DMC Kineton, Draycote, Farnborough, Hampton Wood (River Avon), Lighthorne Quarry, Lower Radbourn, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Seeswood Pool, Warwick Racecourse, Wixford and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, two were at Longdon Marsh on June 17th, six at Harvington Lakes on August 9th, two at Bury End Flash on 9th and 12th, one at Defford on October 18th and finally one along the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe on December 4th.

92 Staffs Untabulated records came from Chasewater on January 17th, Alrewas Junction Pit on February 7th, Radford Meadows March 6th, two at Tixall 7th, two at Colton 14th, River Sow Meadows 24th, Coldmeece 25th–31st, Whitemoor Haye April 1st and 15th–23rd, Dosthill on 14th, Coombes Valley 29th, Croxden Quarry June 11th, Elford GP July 1st, Dosthill August 6th, up to three at Elford GP August-September, up to three at Coley Brook Marsh August 14th–October 2nd, Coombes Valley on two occasions in September, Weston Jones on September 19th, Tixall October 11th, Alrewas Pit 19th and Whitemoor Haye November 23rd. In addition, birds were seen on the River Dove at Fauld between July 16th and November 22nd. W Mid Single birds were noted at Barston Lake on March 7th, Bartley Reservoir on April 5th and Brownhills Common on November 9th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has over-wintered. Warks A better-than-average spring passage commenced with a bird at Brandon on April 29th, which arrived with three Greenshanks. Singles were then recorded at Coleshill GP on April 30th and May 4th– 5th, Charlecote GP on May 2nd, Lady walk on 19th and Morton Bagot on 20th. The only return passage birds were seen at Alvecote on August 22nd and Baginton Lagoons on 31st. Worcs An excellent year for this species, the first of which was at Upton Warren from May 1st until 5th Wood Sandpiper, Upton Warren, Andy Warr many observers. One at Grimley on June 18th ROB et al. was an unusual mid-summer record, while the same site hosted an early juvenile on July 21st BRS et al. and one was seen briefly at Throckmorton Lagoons on both 25th and 26th RAPr. During August singles were noted at Grimley on 11th RAPr et al. and on 18th and 19th BRS et al. Staffs Seven birds again this year compared with 7, 7, 20 and 8 in the previous four. The first was at Drayton Bassett Pits from April 29th–May 3rd and coincided with one at Whitemoor Haye on May 1st, joined by a second on 2nd, and another at Belvide from 2nd–3rd. In the autumn there was a juvenile at Croxall on August 6th, another at Coley Brook Marsh from August 25th–September 1st and a final bird there from 15th–16th.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Fairly common passage migrant. Scarce summer resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 11122112311–

93 JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –––22111–––– Coombe Abbey –––22221–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury –––21–46–––– Draycote –––43–5103––– Earlswood –––21–13–––– Salford Priors GP ––153235–––– Shustoke –––11–41–––– Bittell Reservoirs –––52––2–––– Bredonʼs Hardwick –––1––2––––– Clifton Pits –––––––1112––– Gwen Finch Wetland –––11––1–––– Grimley –––1––12–––– Kinsham Lake –––31–1––––– Lower Moor ––––1–12–––– Throckmorton –––211131––– Upton Warren –––642242––– Barton GP –––22435–––– Belvide –––5518721–– Blithfield –––62425103211 Branston Gravel Pits–––11–213––– Chasewater –––43–52–––– Croxall NR –––23121–11– Doxey Marshes –––32–241––– Drayton Bassett Pits––12314811––– Tittesworth –––465513111 Uttoxeter Quarry ––––32632––– Westport Lake –––31111–––– Whitemoor Haye –––63–84–––– Dunstall Park –––16–111––– Marsh Lane ––2321133211 Sandwell Valley –––21121––––

Warks A pair again nested at Salford Priors GP and hatched chicks, but these were thought later to have been predated. Passage numbers were again very low, with three at DMC Kineton on April 22nd and five at Wormleighton Res on July 12th, the only other counts to exceed two. Other sites where the species was recorded included: Alcester, Alvecote, Bridgetown Fields, Charlecote GP, Compton Verney, Coton, Hampton Wood (River Avon), Ladywalk, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Seeswood Pool, Toft Farm Lakes and Wootton Pool. Worcs Groups of five on the River Severn near Upton-upon-Severn and four on the River Severn at Clevelode both on July 7th, were suggestive of breeding attempts. Away from the tabulated sites, singles were at Arrow Valley Lake on April 19th, Strensham STW on 24th, Arrow Valley North on 29th, Harvington Lakes on August 9th, Ryall Pits on 9th and 12th, Croome Landscape Park on 30th and Pirton Pool on September 7th. Staffs The first spring bird was seen at Drayton Bassett Pits on March 6th–7th, well ahead of the early April passage. Wintering birds were noted in December at Blithfield and Tittesworth – perhaps global warming will result in this becoming more commonplace as this has started to become regular in recent years. Again, the only confirmed breeding was at Tittesworth where a family party with three juveniles was observed, but a pair giving anxiety calls at Uttoxeter Quarry during July was considered to be a sign of young being present. Untabulated records came from Silverdale Colliery on April 17th–18th, Coldmeece 20th, two at Gailey 22nd–23rd, two at Silverdale Colliery 23rd, Foker Grange

94 29th, two at Greenway Bank May 7th, one on 9th, Aqualate May 10th, 16th, Alrewas Junction Pit June 12th, River Dove Fauld June 27th, three at Coldmeece July 1st, Tixall Bridge 3rd–August 2nd, Aqualate July 7th, nine at Chillington 7th–8th, River Sow Meadows 16th, River Dove Fauld August 8th–31st, King’s Bromley 12th, Coley Brook Marsh 27th and River Sow Meadows 31st–September 2nd. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, an early sighting on March 4th was probably the long- staying over-wintering bird that had been undetected in the area since being seen on December 4th 2006. Perhaps the same bird was present again from November 9th to December 25th. Away from tabulated sites, sightings involved one bird at Netherton Reservoir on May 1st and four on 14th, plus singles at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 10th, Reedswood Park on 25th, Goscote Valley on May 11th, Fens Pools on 15th, Bartley Reservoir on August 10th and 28th, and another late sighting at Minworth STW on November 12th.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius Very rare vagrant (2/10). Warks An adult in breeding plumage at Draycote on July 20th RNo et al., was the fourth for both the site and the county.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks Draycote produced singles on April 30th, May 11th and July 21st, with a very late bird there on December 4th–5th. The only other report concerned a single at Alvecote on May 13th. Worcs Spring passage brought singles to Grimley and Kinsham Lake on May 23rd and one that flew through Westwood Pool on 27th, was the first record for the locality since 1995. On return passage, singles were at Holt on August 14th and Grimley on 28th. Staffs

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 18 14 24 50 27 37 55

A superb total of 55 birds continues a trend of increasing numbers over recent years. Wintering birds are rare in the county so one at Blithfield from January 6th–12th was a good start. The next was not until April 29th–30th at Drayton Basset Pits which also hosted one on May 11th with others at Chasewater on May 1st and Barton GP on 12th. The 14th saw a major influx into the county with 10 at Blithfield, 13 at Drayton Bassett Pits and one at Chasewater, the latter lingering until 19th. A further flurry of sightings continued at Barton GP 19th–21st, Whitemoor Haye 20th, four at Blithfield on 24th, Blithfield, Uttoxeter Quarry and two at Whitemoor Haye on 25th, the latter staying until 28th, two at Blithfield on 29th, Blithfield and Barton GP on June 2nd, with the latter remaining until 10th. Return passage at Blithfield commenced with a bird on July 27th–30th, then August 2nd, 7th, 19th and a juvenile 24th–27th. Elsewhere there was one at Barton GP on July 28th, Drayton Bassett Pits on 30th, Chasewater on August 9th, two at Barton GP on 19th and a juvenile at Belvide from 25th–27th. Finally, there was a late bird at Belvide on November 7th.

95 Wilsonʼs Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor Very rare vagrant (0/10). Worcs A first-winter was discovered at Upton Warren on September 23rd PGo et al. The bird remained until 26th and constituted the second record for both the reserve and the county and the fourth for the Region.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Rare passage migrant (5/10). Worcs An adult female that spent the day at Upton Warren on June 15th was the first reserve record since 1999 CTh et al.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Wilsonʼs Phalarope, Upton Warren, Rare passage migrant in autumn, often storm- Andy Warr driven. Very rare at other times. Warks An exceptional total of five was recorded, a county record. Singles were at Shustoke on September 29th–30th PDH, SMH et al., Draycote on October 2nd JOat et al., and Earlswood Lakes from 3rd–5th ARD et al.; followed by two on the East Marsh Pool at Brandon briefly on November 11th BMCG, which were photo graphed. Interestingly two phalaropes were reported to have been seen distantly at Draycote the next day, although these remain unconfirmed. Worcs One was seen flying over the county boundary after paying a brief visit to Bartley Reservoir (West Midlands) on September 19th TMH. Grey Phalarope, Blithfield, Dave Kelsall Thankfully one at Upton Warren on November 8th AJP et al. not only lingered to the following morning but it also completed the Phalarope trio for the reserve – a truly remarkable occurrence! Staffs A very confiding bird proved a popular attraction at Blithfield, remaining from September 27th until October 2nd GJM. W Mid One was seen to fly in and land at Bartley Reservoir in the evening of September 19th, before flying off ten minutes later, heading into Worcestershire TMH.

Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus Rare autumn and winter vagrant (3/10). Staffs An adult pale morph at Chasewater from November 12th–15th GEv attracted many admirers during its stay, so rarely do these birds linger at inland sites. It was seen to take and feed on a first-winter Black-headed Gull on 13th. It may have been present from

96 9th, from which time the gull roost was subject to regular disturbance. A second pale-phase adult (perhaps the Chasewater bird) was then observed at Aqualate on 21st PJor where it remained until the following day.

Pomarine Skua, Chasewater, Dave Kelsall

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Very rare in winter (8/10). Warks An adult was reported in the evening gull roost at Draycote on September 26th RCM, following strong north-westerlies.

Great Skua Stercoraria skua Rare passage migrant (6/10). Warks The bird present at Draycote from December 26th 2006 remained until January 7th many observers.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A pair, first seen at Kingsbury on April 17th, were seen mating and carrying nesting material within the Black-headed Gull colony on Canal Pool on 19th. Both adults were present up to at least April 28th but with only one subsequently into May. Presumably the same bird was reported sitting on an apparent nest during early June but it was washed out with other nests in the gullery on June 19th SSe et al. This was the first instance of attempted breeding in the county. Other records during the year from the Tame Valley area included an adult in the Coton roost on January 15th, two there on 27th and three on 28th; a bird at Ladywalk on March 3rd and a first-winter there on 25th; a first-summer and second-summer with the adults at Kingsbury on April 19th, with the former again there on Cliff Pool on 24th and 28th; probably the same first-summer at Shustoke on May 6th, with

97 an adult at Lea Marston on 14th; a juvenile at Kingsbury on August 27th, with a first-winter there on September 9th and 13th; and finally, an adult in the Coton roost on November 4th, 9th and 12th. Record numbers were present in the Draycote roost during January, with up to three on many dates and peaks of seven on 20th, five on 23rd and nine on 25th, the latter comprising six adults, two second-winters and a Mediterranean Gull, Kingsbury, Steve Seal first-winter JFCJ, RCM et al. Subsequently up to two adults and a first-winter were noted on various dates until March 9th, with later spring records of two first-summers on March 21st, a second-summer on 25th, an adult on April 2nd–3rd and 14th, and a final first-summer on 24th. The first post- breeding record here was of a juvenile on August 7th, followed by a first-winter on September 26th and again on October 2nd and 11th. Subsequent records were fairly few, with just an adult on October 20th and 30th, a first-winter on November 18th and 23rd–24th, an adult on 29th, a first-winter on December 4th, a second-winter on 7th and an adult on 18th. Away from these two main areas there were reports of an adult at Napton Res on January 1st and 13th, with a first-winter there on 2nd and 26th; a second-winter at Wormleighton Res on January 3rd, a first-winter at Abbey Fields Pool (Kenilworth) on March 2nd, a second-winter at Brandon on 26th, a first-summer at Alvecote on July 7th, an adult in Stratford-upon-Avon on August 24th, and a first-winter at Brandon on November 3rd. Worcs An estimated 21 individuals recorded during the first winter period and early spring, the first being an adult at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 5th and 6th. A first-winter roosted at Westwood Pool on 10th and was observed leaving early the following morning, whilst presumably the same individual was noted at Hams on 14th, returned to Westwood Pool that same evening and roosted hereafter on 16th, 17th and 20th. The latter locality also held an adult from 11th–14th, a new first-winter on 28th and February 8th, plus an adult on 14th and the first-winter at Kempsey Lower Ham on January 28th, was presumably the same individual which roosted at Westwood Pool. Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham held a first-winter on January 21st, an adult and first-winter were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on 31st, a first-winter was at Wildmoor Tip on February 12th and 13th and from March, Bredon’s Hardwick held single adults on 1st and 2nd, 16th, 22nd and 24th, three adults and a first-summer on April 1st and a first-summer on 3rd. Other March sightings comprised an adult and first-summer at Powick Hams on 6th, with the latter bird remaining on the 7th, a second-summer roosted on floodwater at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham on 8th and 11th, whilst Kempsey Lower Ham held a first-summer on 14th, then a second-summer on 15th. The lack of birds during the first half of the year at Upton Warren, was compensated by a strong autumn movement through the reserve, comprising an adult on July 16th, whilst juveniles were observed on 30th and August 2nd, three on 6th and 7th, singles from 8th–10th, 23rd and 29th, two on 31st and September 1st, one on 2nd, two on 3rd and one on 7th, then a first-winter on October 8th, 10th and 11th. Elsewhere, Holt Prairies held a second-summer on July 22nd and a juvenile on 29th, an adult was at

98 Bredon’s Hardwick on 31st, a juvenile at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 16th, Lower Moor held a juvenile on 29th and a new juvenile on 30th and Upper Bittell Reservoir a juvenile on September 4th. Surprisingly just a single observation made during the second winter period, with a first-winter present at Throckmorton Lagoons on November 19th. Staffs

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 11–––––221–– Blithfield 224–––142–11 Chasewater 221––––11112 Gailey 1––––––1––11 This year saw the first confirmed breeding attempt by three pairs in the county. At least one pair produced chicks but eventually failed due to flooding in the early summer. The only untabulated record was of a second winter bird at Essington Quarry Pool on September 22nd. W Mid During the first winter period, at Bartley Reservoir, single adults roosted on January 6th, February 28th and March 1st, and first-winters on February 6th, 12th and 22nd, with an adult at Dunstall Park on January 12th and a first-winter on 23rd. In autumn, there were single birds in Sandwell Valley in August and on September 25th, with two on 26th; single birds at Dunstall Park on August 11th and September 7th, 11th and 17th; an adult at Marsh Lane NR on August 17th, 23rd and 28th, and a first-winter from September 18th–24th and again on 27th; an adult in Smestow Valley on 17th; and a first-winter at Bartley Reservoir on 18th and a second-winter on 26th. The only records in the second winter period concerned one in Sandwell Valley on November 25th, a first-winter bird at Bartley Reservoir on 28th and an adult at Stubbers Green on December 22nd.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Westwood Pool 114–––––17244 Belvide 213–1––3––813– Blithfield 16–––––––2–16 Chasewater 6 10 5 26 ––1312410 Silverdale Colliery 7 2 14––––––229 Tittesworth 30030264–1–124191931 Westport Lake 381––––––129 Bartley Reservoir 69––––––124–– Coundon Wedge 30 11 602123323–1 Marsh Lane 24 8 513––––225218

Warks It was again very abundant during the early months on the sheep pastures of the eastern Feldon, with 8500 estimated to have passed through Napton Res to Draycote during the late afternoon of January 2nd. During the first half of January the wintering flock at Draycote was estimated to have reached 15-20,000 on occasion but accurate counting was not attempted. Counts of feeding birds in this district included maxima of 3000 at Wormleighton on January 3rd, 1000 at Fenny Compton from 5th–7th, 2000 at Upper Radbourn also on 7th, 3500 at Priors Hardwick on February 28th and 750 at Upper Shuckburgh on March 7th. Further north and west, counts included 400 on floodwater in

99 the Avon valley between Alveston and Wasperton on January 12th, 120 at Milcote on March 9th, 120 at Maxstoke on 12th, 100 between Kenilworth and Leamington Spa on 17th and 300 at Bishop’s Tachbrook on 18th. There were still 650 at Draycote and 450 at Napton Res on March 29th but numbers dropped considerably in early April. 30 were counted at Draycote as late as May 1st, with the last spring record of two immatures at Morton Bagot on 7th. A single bird was at Coombe Abbey on June 18th while the first in the post-breeding period was a first-summer at Napton Res on July 15th after which records were regular. Numbers were rather low during the last quarter in the traditional feeding areas, with most appearing from early November in flocks of up to 150. There were several good counts from elsewhere in the county however, including 200 on sheep pasture by Corley Moor on December 15th, 168 at Brandon on 16th and 67 sheltering from the wind at Shustoke on 18th. A noticeable increase in numbers was also noted in the east and south-east during this period. Worcs Away from the tabulated locality, sightings were few and far between during the first two months of the year, with six at Longdon Marsh on January 1st, two at Arrow Valley North on 14th and three at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 18th. A strong passage of birds commenced from early March, with all the large flocks concentrated along the lower Severn, south of Worcester and Avon Valley. Sightings comprised 200 at Longdon Marsh on 10th, 187 at Kempsey Lower Ham on 14th, 61 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th, increased to 100+ on 22nd, 500 on 31st and 700+ on April 1st. Kinsham Lake held 35 on March 23rd, 60 on April 6th and five on 9th, 100 were at Eckington Meadows on March 25th, 185 at Conderton on 31st and 150 at Lower Moor on April 4th. The only report away from southern Worcestershire during this period comprised 30 at Upton Warren on April 2nd, while the sole May record came from Kinsham Lake, where three first-summer birds were observed on 18th, a very unusual occurrence this time of the year. Upper Bittell Reservoir held one on September 27th, followed by five on 29th and a party of 10 were reported from Kinsham Lake on October 27th, then singles here on many dates to the years end. Staffs Apart from those tabulated, reported from 13 other sites, the only double-figure count being 14 at Newcastle College on January 7th. W Mid In the first winter period, small numbers of birds were noted at Dunstall Park, Netherton Reservoir and Sandwell Valley in January, with five at Wednesfield on March 10th. Later in the year, birds were at Netherton Reservoir from September to December, Olton Mere in November, Sandwell Valley and Westwood Heath in November and December, and Dunstall Park in December.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 400–––––––––420– Dosthill 200520–––225–––800750450 Bittell Reservoir 31 4 14 10 – 16 – 39 69 5 450 11 Bredonʼs Hardwick 12 28 63 23 – – 51 36 11 58 6 32 Kinsham Lake 4 12 15 220 140 120 20 70 10 10 4 – Throckmorton Tip 4750 3650 2800 675 800 1200 1400 2750 2800 3600 4750 4500 Westwood Pool 3500 1000 4 17 4 32 25 15 500 500 3500 4500 Aqualate 2 4006111–803–2500 200

100 JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 5000 2500 1 5 1 10–1–2652500 Blithfield 50035––––––7––– Chasewater 120 2500 1100 – 280 275 420 770 1100 1700 1500 300 Coldmeece Pools 350 350–––––––––– Croxden Quarry –––8416–10060080035– Doxey Marshes 1973–33–43331315 Silverdale Colliery –––––––120–80–80 Tittesworth 165 38 12 7 25 4 6 32 42 60 13 17 Uttoxeter Quarry –––3–36040–––100 Westport Lake 552521132114111045818 Dunstall Park 37 45 17 23 17 14 14 44 67 22 24 45 Edgbaston Reservoir – – 52 120 – 25 48 140 – 25 – 50 Marsh Lane 15 4 35 8 8 80 9 17 6 15 8 10 Netherton Reservoir 330 300 12 12 7 6 3 72 150 159 955 870

Warks The only sizeable count from Draycote comprised 1000 on December 2nd. Counts away from the main roosts included 370 on floodwater in the Avon valley between Alveston and Wasperton on January 12th, 260 at Southam on August 17th, 300 at Kings Newnham on September 7th, 397 at Wootton Wawen on 9th, 320 at Chesterton on 24th, 750 on ploughed land at Fenny Compton on 28th and 220 moving south at Salford Priors GP on December 2nd. A very prominent southerly passage was noted on a broad front across South Warwickshire on September 23rd, stretching from the Arrow valley in the west to the Northants border. An adult at Coton on January 1st had a yellow wing-tag from a Spanish marking scheme, while a colour-ringed adult at Earlswood on May 2nd and July 2nd had been marked on the Ribble Estuary (Lancs) in June 2000. Worcs A strong breeding population continues to reside in and around Worcester City Centre, though no accurate count received this summer, whilst Spring Lane Industrial Estate (Malvern Link) held birds throughout the breeding season, but with no proven successfully nesting pairs. The only large flocks reported away from the tabu- lated sites comprised 1000 and 2500+ at Longdon Marsh on January 1st and 13th respectively. Staffs Untabulated large counts include 1000 at Drayton Bassett Pits on February 14th, 350 by River Dove at Fauld on July 7th, 500 at Bradnop on September 1st, 100 at Cuckoo Bank and 150 at Weston Jones Mill on 30th and 300 roosting at Copmere on December 23rd. W Mid Several pairs nested in Birmingham (including on the Council House), Bromford, Gravelly Hill, Tipton and Wolverhampton. The counts at Netherton Reservoir of 955 on November 30th and 870 on December 7th involved birds heading eastwards, presumably to roost at Bartley Reservoir. Also on the latter date, 160 birds were noted at Fens Pools.

ʻIntermediateʼ Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius Warks A few adults were reported, with singles on Wormleighton Res on January 16th and at Kings Newnham on September 7th, with three on farmland at Fenny Compton on 28th. Staffs At Chasewater there were two in the roost on August 19th, one on 21st and two on 28th all GEv. One was at Uttoxeter Quarry on September 9th SJT, NDP and another at Silverdale Colliery on December 30th NDP. W Mid One was noted at Dunstall Park on January 22nd.

101 Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and an uncommon breeding species. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 380–––––––––40– Dosthill 78110–––84––32250600 Bittell Reservoirs 1––––––24–402 Bredonʼs Hardwick 3 9 243––13312622– Kinsham Lake 1–1502210–21––– Throckmorton Tip 1500 450 175 65 50+ 50 200 150 50+ 170 2100 2000 Westwood Pool 350 200222––16050230750 Belvide 30040––2––––12– Chasewater 750 1500 100 1 3 12 2 5 25 100 2800 2500 Coldmeece Pools 200 30 –––––––––– Drayton Bassett Pits55–477––6371017 Silverdale Colliery 90––––––2301181 Westport Lake 791131–––1–8 Dunstall Park 12 11–222111–614 Marsh Lane 4 1 192––1–––16 Netherton Reservoir38332641–1576030 Warks The only count from Draycote was an estimated 1000 on December 2nd. Counts away from the main roosts were generally small, with 48 on pasture at Upper Radbourn on January 7th, 75 on floodwater at Charlecote on 12th, 50 at Whitnash on December 3rd, 36 at Shrewley on 21st and 40 at Knightcote on 22nd the best reported. An adult feeding three begging juveniles at Earlswood Lakes on August 17th had presumably dispersed from breeding sites in either Worcester or Birmingham. Worcs Observed throughout the breeding season in Worcester City Centre, but no breeding data received. The only other report away from the tabulated localities came from Pirton Pool, with a pair present on April 13th, October 9th and November 11th. Staffs A pale ‘Thayeri’ type bird roosted at Chasewater on March 12th–13th and 31st–April 1st and ‘argentatus’ types were noted there on November 1st and also three at Coldmeece on December 15th. Other double-figure counts comprised 12 roosting at Tittesworth on January 30th, 24 at Shugborough on February 11th, 13 at Stanton Dale on August 5th, 62 flying south at midday at Whitmore Bent Lane on December 24th, 91 flying south over Cotes Heath early afternoon and 100 roosting at Copmere on December 30th – these last two groups probably the same birds. W Mid Birds were present in Birmingham and Wolverhampton city centres during the breeding season, but no reports were received of any nesting attempts. Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis Frequent and increasing late summer, autumn and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 43–––––––333 Dosthill 32–––121–463 Draycote 20102–––1162710 Kinsham Lake –––31––1–––1 Throckmorton Tip 322–––474253 Westwood Pool 42––––––1–44 Wildmoor Tip 23–––––––231 Belvide 63–––1–112510 Blithfield 22––––––––22 Chasewater 2121–26103756

102 JFMAMJ JASOND Drayton Bassett Pits––21–––1–––2 Silverdale Colliery 1––––––1–2–1 Other Staffs sites 1–––––137––5 Bartley Reservoir 853––––13284

Warks Exceptional numbers were present in the Draycote roost during the second half of January, with maxima of 20 on 23rd and 19 on 25th JFCJ, RCM et al., which sets a new county record. At least 22 individuals were involved, in this influx with 16 adults and two each of third-winter, second-winter and first-winter birds identified. Away from the tabulated sites, other reports in the Tame Valley concerned an adult at Ladywalk on January 2nd, a second-year bird at Shustoke on September 10th and an adult there on December 17th. Alvecote had a good year, with a juvenile on August 25th, single adults on 27th, October 20th and November 25th, and a third-winter on December 26th. Else- where in the county there was an adult on floodwater between Alveston and Charlecote on January 12th and another at Brandon on February 4th, the latter surprisingly the first for the reserve. There was a good showing of (mainly) adults on farmland during September, with four at Kings Newnham on 7th, singles at Charlecote GP on 14th and near Wormleighton Res on 20th, four (including a first-winter) at Chesterton on 24th and two at Fenny Compton on 28th. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sightings comprised two adults at Lower Moor on January 1st, while two adults were noted at Powick Ham and an adult roosted on floodwaters at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham on 13th. During March, Lower Moor held an adult on 12th and Bredon’s Hardwick a first-summer on 24th, increased to two first-summers and an adult the following day. Summer records comprised an adult at Grimley New Workings on May 11th and a third-summer on a field between Defford and Woodmancote on July 11th. Juveniles arrived in the county throughout August, with singles at Wagon Wheel Lane, Grimley from 4th–6th, Throckmorton Air- field on 12th, Upper Bittell Reservoir on 17th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 19th and Westwood Pool on 28th. Adults frequented Grimley on August 11th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th and Upper Bittell Reservoir on 31st and late autumn and second winter period records comprised a second-winter at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 27th, the same locality holding a third-winter on 29th and an adult on November 30th, while an adult was observed along New Road, Worcester on December 24th. Staffs A general increase in numbers, particularly in the second winter period, suggests this bird is becoming more widespread. The records in the table from “Other Sites” include an adult at Coldmeece on January 28th, a second-summer bird on the River Dove at Fauld on July 10th and 17th moving to Tamworth on 22nd and Crossplains on August 8th, one at Croxden Quarry August 17th– 22nd and two on 29th, JCB North Lake on 23rd, Branston GP September 1st and 5th, Barton GP 2nd, Croxden Quarry on 14th with two on 16th, two immatures at Branston GP on 14th with one again on 16th and 29th, Cuckoo Bank on 30th, Coldmeece on December 15th, three at Copmere on 22nd and one at Cuckoo Bank on 26th. W Mid A first-winter bird visited Dunstall Park on January 2nd and 22nd, with a third- winter seen on November 3rd. At Netherton Reservoir, single birds were seen on January 1st, 3rd and 24th, with one or two on eight dates from November 21st to December 12th. At Marsh Lane NR, single birds were present on August 3rd and 27th and October 21st. At Stubbers Green, one was recorded on November 19th, with two on December 8th and one on 28th. Seven birds were noted at Clayhanger during the period October to December.

103 2006 Addendum W Mid One was seen in Sandwell Valley on August 31st.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Rare and increasing winter visitor (8/10) Warks This once rare (or overlooked) gull now appears to be establishing itself as a regular winter visitor to the county. Most reports came from the Draycote roost, with up to three seen on at least 19 dates during the period January 3rd–February 17th JJB, JFCJ, RCM et al., and a record maximum of six on January 25th RCM which coincided with an influx of Yellow-legged Gulls. At least seven individuals were involved in these records involving three adults, a third-winter, second-winter and two first-winters. The only bird elsewhere in this period was a second-winter at Coton on January 2nd ARD. The first autumn bird was seen at Draycote on September 10th RCM, followed by a first-winter at Alvecote on 18th AAr and 26th RLS. Subsequent records from Draycote involved two adults on October 30th, a subadult on November 6th, 10th and 15th, two adults on 16th, three adults and a subadult on 17th, two adults on 22nd, a first-winter on 27th, an adult on 29th, two adults on December 1st, one adult on 15th and an adult and first-winter on 18th JFCJ, RCM et al. Records from the Tame Valley during this period were of a third-winter at Coton on November 10th JOat, TPe et al. an adult there from November 15th–18th ARD et al. and again occasionally from December 8th–24th TPe, GPR, RLS, with a second- winter on 27th GPR. Probably the latter second-winter was seen at Dosthill Lake on December 10th and 31st ARD. Worcs A first-winter bird at Lower Moor on March 24th RAPr was the only record during the first winter period. However, the second winter period heralded a significant increase in sightings commencing with an adult at Throckmorton Tip on November 10th RAPr, a second-winter at Throckmorton Lagoons on 24th RAPr, an adult at the latter locality on 27th, 28th, 29th and 31st BRS et al., also roosting at Westwood Pool on 28th WDu and finally a third-winter at Throckmorton Lagoons on 31st RAPr, SMW. Staffs

Year <2001 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Birds 03040158

This species is starting to show up more frequently at the major reservoirs during the winter. In the first winter period, an adult and second-winter roosted at Chasewater on January 4th, the latter roosting the next day too GEv, PDJ, then a first-winter roosted on 14th and 16th PDJ. A third-winter was seen at the Blithfield roost on February 25th GJM. In the second winter period, a first-summer moulting into second-winter plumage was noted at Belvide on August 28th, followed by an adult on November 24th SNu. Between December 6th and 23rd, two second-winters and an adult regularly roosted at Chasewater PDJ et al., the second-winter birds also being seen at Stubbers Green during the day. In addition a second-summer roosted at Blithfield on 15th GJM, NJS. W Mid The presumed returning adult was regularly seen at Stubbers Green from October 25th to November 3rd several observers, with perhaps the same noted at nearby Vigo landfill site on at least December 17th RCl. A second-winter bird visited Stubbers Green from November 17th RCl, a different second-winter arrived on 27th RCl, and at least one of these remained until the end of the year several observers.

104 Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks A good year with five reported. In January, an adult was at Draycote on 5th–6th and 11th JFCJ, RCM, while the Coton roost had a juvenile on 11th RLS and a different individual on 14th GPR, RLS. At the other end of the year there was a juvenile in the Draycote roost on November 16th JFCJ, CRS et al. and 22nd RCM, with another juvenile there on December 18th RCM, and then at Lawford Heath Tip on 19th JFCJ and 20th RCM. Worcs A juvenile frequented Throckmorton Tip on January 21st RAPr et al., being seen at Westwood Pool during the early morning and evening of 22nd SMW et al., before returning to Throckmorton Tip on 23rd RAPr. A juvenile was also noted at Wildmoor Sand Quarry on 26th, 30th and 31st and again on February 1st and 7th TMH et al. and a juvenile was at Lower Moor on 17th RAPr. Finally, what was assumed to be the same first-year individual was noted at Kinsham Lake on April 21st GHP and May 17th WFP – a remarkably late record! Staffs A good series of records this year. In the first winter period, first-winter birds roosted at Chasewater on January 1st–3rd RCl, GEv, PDH et al., 23rd and 25th PDJ, then at Blithfield on February 11th MPR, GJM, RCB, Chasewater on 20th–24th, this bird again on March 9th–10th GEv, another on 22nd PDJ and the last on 31st–April 8th PDJ. In addition a second-winter bird roosted from March 19th–24th PDJ. In December, a very pale first- or second-winter bird roosted at Chasewater on 16th PDJ, MYa, SARi, JAll, IMo and second-winter birds dropped in at Belvide SNu and Copmere PJon, NJS on 22nd. W Mid Three different juveniles were identified at Bartley Reservoir during January: first noted on 5th and 8th TMH, second seen most evenings from 12th–26th ACu, KMC, SHa, TMH, and third recorded several evenings from 22nd to February 5th ACu, TMH. The second bird was also seen at Coton (Warwickshire) on January 11th and at Wildmoor Sand Quarry (Worcestershire) on 26th TMH. The fourth bird of the year, thought to be a second- winter, roosted at Bartley Reservoir on December 15th ACu, TMH. Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Warks An excellent year commenced with a juvenile in the Draycote roost on February 11th DCo, JFCJ, RCM, with possibly the same bird found in the pre-roost at Dosthill Lake on 12th ARD. Another juvenile was seen on Cliff Pool at Kingsbury on March 19th SLC. A small influx was indicated in early winter, but as all reports again concerned juveniles, the number involved was not clear as duplication between sites was likely. The first was found in the Draycote roost on November 15th RCM, with that site also having one on December 12th JFCJ, RCM, two on 13th RCM, TMa and one on 15th RCM. Dosthill Lake had one from November 28th–December 1st ARD et al. and a different bird from December 10th–14th ARD. A bird seen in flight at Hartshill on December 3rd SMH, was found again at the nearby Judkins Quarry Landfill in Nuneaton from 4th–6th many observers, with presumably the same bird again on 13th over the adjacent Windmill Hill NR LLe. Finally, a bird flew west at Alvecote on December 16th RLS. Worcs A juvenile that had frequented the roost at Bartley Reservoir (West Midlands) from November 16th was noted in fields at Frankley on 24th TMH et al. while two different juveniles were noted at Throckmorton Tip in late December with one on 26th RAP et al. and the other on 30th GHP et al. Staffs A first-winter bird was seen at Belvide on February 13th SNu, ASt, with it or another regularly roosting at Chasewater during the period February 27th–April 12th PDJ

105 et al. This latter bird was also observed during the day at Drayton Bassett Pits on March 19th, 23rd, 24th and April 6th JHa. A first-winter regularly roosted at Chasewater from November 15th until December 15th many observers, joined by a second-winter on November 25th SARi and another first-winter on December 1st. The bird was also seen during the day at Drayton Bassett/Dosthill Pits between November 27th and 30th MJI. A new first-winter bird was picked up in the roost at Chasewater on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve PDJ. W Mid At Bartley Reservoir, a juvenile from December 2006 continued to roost regu - larly until February 10th ACu, KMC, SHa, TMH, another juvenile arrived on November 16th and stayed until 24th at least ACu, TMH and a second-winter roosted from 19th to at least December 30th ACu, TMH. The latter two birds were also reported at nearby Frankley Reservoir, but no further details were received. Glaucous X Herring Gull Warks A juvenile was reported at Lawford Heath Tip on December 20th. Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Fairly common winter visitor, scarce in summer. Rare breeding species. Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Dosthill 4631–––––11476 Lower Moor 7–12–––––––– Throckmorton Tip 1242–––––––1529 Westwood Pool 2–––––––––57 Wildmoor Tip 11–––––––––– Aqualate –611––––1––5 Belvide 712–––1––2158 Blithfield 6–––––––1–12 Chasewater 332 68 227–––––2110488 Drayton Bassett Pits––42–––––9617 Bartley Reservoir 202––––––11216 Netherton Reservoir101––––––––23 Warks The largest count at Coton was 18 on January 1st, while the best at Draycote was 80 on 9th, although the latter was probably an under-estimate. Only very small numbers were seen away from these sites, with a maximum of only nine over Priors Hardwick on January 14th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites Bredon’s Hardwick hosted three on March 18th, three on April 4th, while a pair were present during the first half of April and an adult was there on May 2nd. A second-summer was at Kinsham Lake on April 7th and two were there on 23rd, while two adults were at Bittell Reservoirs on 27th. An adult was at Grimley on September 18th, a second-winter was at Bredon’s Hardwick on October 14th and a first- winter was at Bittell Reservoirs on November 22nd. Staffs Apart from the tabulated records, no more than two birds were reported from nine other sites. At Belvide, the aggressive bird showing a taste for ducks returned on September 20th for its fourth year and was seen preying on two Ruddy Ducks and four Tufted Ducks between its arrival and November 6th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, two were noted on January 3rd, with singles on 29th, May 15th and September 28th. Single birds were seen at Mary Stevens Park on January 7th and 21st. Two birds were reported at Minworth STW on June 12th, with one on November 12th and 23rd. Two were noted at Stubbers Green on December 12th, with at least one in Coundon Wedge on 24th and 29th.

106 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks After a series of poor years, 2007 proved to be excellent for sightings with the best annual total (29) for a decade. Records began with an adult at Shustoke on January 31st; followed by a decent spring passage comprising an adult at Alvecote on March 24th, a first-winter at Brandon on 27th, an adult and first-winter which flew north through Salford Priors GP on April 1st and an adult at Draycote on 3rd. There was one summer record of an adult which appeared at Draycote during a shower on July 13th. Following strong westerlies in late September, Draycote again attracted one on September 24th followed by a party of 12 (includ - ing ten first-winters) feeding with terns on 28th. On November 10th, a day of strong south-west winds, two adults and a first- winter flew low over meadows at Knightcote, while another adult and first-winter were at Dray- Kittiwake, Marsh Lane NR, Steve Seal cote, with a further adult there on 12th. Subsequent records involved single adults at Charlecote GP on November 27th, Draycote on December 15th and Coton on 29th. Worcs An adult at Arrow Valley Lake was a good record in suburban Redditch on January 13th and another adult was noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir on March 25th. A first-winter lingered at Bredon’s Hardwick from March 30th until April 7th and an adult that flew over the county boundary at Frankley on November 9th were the only other records. Staffs

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 10 12 37 22 8 The poorest year for many years, just an adult at Belvide on January 12th, another on March 19th, two at Blithfield on August 19th, an immature at Chasewater on 22nd, two at Blithfield and an immature at Westport on November 10th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, an adult visited briefly on January 1st, with a second-year bird on March 25th per NPB. An adult was at Dunstall Park on January 16th GAC, KMC. A first-winter bird remained at Sheepwash UP from March 21st–31st ATh, GWi. In November, single adults visited Bartley Reservoir on 3rd and 9th ACu, TMH, and three adults circled Dartmouth Park Lake on 19th REH.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks A first-winter was at Draycote on February 13th and an adult on March 21st, followed by a good spring passage with birds recorded there on at least 18 dates during the period April 8th–May 6th. Most reports involved one-three birds, but with up to 12 on April 12th, five on 15th, seven on 30th, four on May 4th and six on 5th. Adults were in the

107 majority, but with a few first and second-summer birds also involved. Away from Draycote but during the same period, single adults were noted at Earlswood Lakes on April 8th and May 3rd, and Kingsbury on April 12th and May 4th; while Shustoke had two on both April 10th (an adult and second-summer) and 14th (single first and second-summer birds). Later records involved a first-summer bird at Dosthill on May 14th, four adults at Draycote on June 1st and a first-summer at Alvecote on June 4th. On return passage there was a juvenile at Draycote from August 16th–21st, followed by a short series of records during a period of strong westerly winds in late September which brought in a number of other seabirds. The first report was a party of seven which flew through Alvecote on September 24th, followed at Draycote by two on 28th, six on 29th and one on 30th, all first-winters. A first- winter was also at Earlswood on September 28th, with an adult there on 29th and another adult in the Shustoke gull roost on 30th. The final two records of the year involved a first- winter at Salford Priors GP on October 21st (the first for the site) and an adult in the Coton gull roost on December 16th. Worcs An adult at Westwood Pool on February 10th was followed by another adult at Powick Hams on March 11th, which was located in the evening gull roost at Upton-upon- Severn Southern Ham the same day, also being seen there the following day, while an adult was at Bredon’s Hardwick on 22nd. A first-summer was at Westwood Pool on April 27th, an adult at Bittell Reservoirs on May 3rd and later in the year, an adult at Grimley on July 16th was followed by a first-winter there on October 7th. Staffs The majority of sightings came from Belvide and Blithfield, however the first adult appeared at Chasewater on February 10th and the last was at Gailey on December 16th. At Belvide there was an adult on April 14th, four on 28th, a juvenile on September 15th–17th, two adults and a first-winter on 25th, an adult and first-winter on 28th joined by another adult on 29th, an adult on October 7th and 10 on 9th (five adults, a second winter and four first-winters). At Blithfield there were three adults and a sub-adult on April 14th, two adults and a first-summer on 18th, single juveniles on July 23rd–25th, August 23rd–26th and September 7th–8th, an adult and juvenile on 26th, a juvenile on 28th, three birds on 30th, one of which (an adult) remained until October 8th with three more adults joining it on 9th. Elsewhere, an adult and first summer visited Chasewater on May 1st and one visited Aqualate on September 29th–30th. W Mid Single adults were seen at Marsh Lane NR on May 3rd and September 29th.

Sabineʼs Gull Xema sabini Rare passage migrant (3/10). Worcs A juvenile was noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir briefly on October 13th GFe et al.

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

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoirs 21938–1––5121934412322756 Bredonʼs Hardwick 24 781 1500 –––6324467 Grimley 20841144––604840137150130 Kinsham Lake 10––5–––10112601 Upton Warren 330 125 345 29 34 140 420 800 930 170 550 150 Throckmorton Tip 3750 4000 4500 45 5 120 75 12 48 375 1200 2750

108 JFMAMJ JASOND Westwood Pool 3600 3000 34–320575001000 3600 4000 Alrewas 59 12 33 222 9 1 – 200 84 21 44 0 Aqualate 43 100 200 18 –6––04001000 Belvide 4000 100 1227––3015061020015030 Blithfield 3000 150–––––––––250 Chasewater 12000 7000 3800 140 24 40 1100 2600 4500 8000 800010000 Croxall NR 50 270 300 65 26 59 100 60–––– Croxden Quarry ––––––507516025054– Doxey Marshes 2021561173342202252162180162 River Sow Meadows 350 450 80–––350–25050–350 Silverdale Colliery 1200–––––1301200 – 200 – – Tittesworth 3500 2600 100 5 10 2 12 263 100 350 200 150 Uttoxeter Quarry ––––––330155400––150 Westport Lake 6000 4000 – 22 9 – 109 140 300 1000 800 2000 Dunstall Park 1000 400 150653342640650430450600 Marsh Lane 248 200 250 16 17 50 200 350 495 350 200 165 Netherton Reservoir 1500 700 743–15325064930180 Sandwell Valley 390 300 70 20 5 8 39 200 200 100 163 300

Warks A total of 170 pairs nested at Kingsbury, but all were washed out on June 19th when over 100 juveniles were reported to have been picked up dead. There were no reports of breeding pairs at Dosthill Lake, but a bird was seen sitting on a nest at Ladywalk on May 31st, the first such record from here. No attempted breeding occurred at Brandon this year where the small colony appears to have fizzled out. Counts during the late winter period in the Tame Valley region appeared to be about average, with maxima of 2000 at Dosthill on January 4th and 2500 roosting at Coton on 5th. Numbers at Kingsbury increased during the spring, reaching 2200 on April 4th. Flocks in the south and east of the county were in contrast much higher than usual, perhaps attracted by the many flooded pastures. There were no counts from the huge Draycote roost, but 11,000 were estimated to have staged at Napton Res on their way to the roost in the late afternoon of January 2nd. Other large flocks during this period included 4500 at Wormleighton on January 3rd, 1500 at Fenny Compton on 5th, 2000 on the Avon floods between Alveston and Wasperton on 12th, 5000 at Priors Hardwick on February 28th, 1000 at Knightcote on March 3rd and 2500 at Upper Shuckburgh on 7th. All of these counts involved feeding flocks on wet pasture. Most wintering birds had departed by the first week in April, but there were still 1400 at Draycote on 18th which were attracted to a large fly hatch, and 900 on 25th. Amongst the few post-breeding counts received, were 400 at Dosthill Lake (including 100 juveniles presumably hatched at the nearby Dosthill NR gullery in Staffs) on July 2nd, 426 on floodwater at Charlecote GP on 27th and 7000 at the Draycote roost on August 24th. Early winter flocks were generally unremarkable, with maxima of 1000 at Brandon on November 18th, 2500 in the Coton roost during the same month, and 1500 at Dosthill Lake in December. Oddities reported during the year included a pure albino with pink bill and legs at Kingsbury on April 28th, an adult in the Coton roost with no bill on November 11th JOat, and a leucistic first-winter in the same roost on 24th. Worcs The only breeding pairs were reported from Upton Warren, where five young were fledged. Away from the tabulated localities the only reports comprised roost counts at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham of 1000+ on January 14th, 2000+ on 18th and 3600 on 20th, while Arrow Valley Lake held 150 on February 4th and Hewell Grange 70 on October 11th. Staffs Numbers continue to decline at Aqualate, where just three pairs bred (cf. eight in 2006 and 12 in 2005), however two further pairs were thought to have bred nearby at

109 Coley Brook Marsh. At another site all 40–50 nests were flooded out, as were half the approximate 150 nests at a third, although the surviving pairs did manage to fledge young. A new breeding site was established at a fourth site where five pairs nested, however there was no indication of success. The all-white albino, which roosted last year on one occasion at Chasewater, became a fairly regular attendee from January 4th until April 6th. It was present at Priorslee Lake, Telford also on January 4th, and re-appeared in the Chasewater roost later on in the year, on November 2nd, December 10th, 23rd and 25th and also regularly in the Belvide roost from November 21st until the year end. During March, a partial albino bird with black primaries was regular in the Chasewater roost and this too returned, but only on October 8th and 14th. Finally, an adult bird with white scapulars was noted there on September 27th. Other large flocks comprised 250 at Radford Meadows from January 4th–19th, 800 flying over to roost at West End on 27th, 1000 at Denstone Hall on February 27th, 1000 at Dosthill on March 8th, 300 at Tixall Bridge on July 27th, 2500 roosting at Sideway Stoke on November 11th, 250 at Keele University on 22nd and 1000 roosting at Copmere on December 23rd. W Mid About 1500 flew eastwards through Netherton Reservoir (presumably to roost at Bartley Reservoir) on January 5th, with 930 on 28th and November 30th. The maximum count of 870 at Dunstall Park came on January 14th. The only other high counts received included 400 at Edgbaston Reservoir on December 23rd and 740 at Olton Mere on 24th. An albino bird was noted at Dunstall Park on February 18th, March 17th and October 3rd. Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Warks Six were resting on buoys at Draycote on May 4th PDH, with one there on 5th RCM. Alvecote had single birds on May 7th RLS and July 8th AAr, with an adult and juvenile there on August 28th RLS et al. Worcs An adult and a juvenile at Upton Warren on August 28th PMA, AFJ et al. were relocated at Upper Bittell Reservoir later that same day TMH. Staffs One was seen at Blithfield from August 17th–19th RCB, ESC, another on September 15th GJM, two adults and a juvenile at Belvide on 29th SNu and four again at Blithfield on October 9th GJM. Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant. Uncommon or frequent as a breeding species, mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys. Long-term average: April 11th (23) to October 10th (23). 8-year average: April 8th (–3 days) to October 15th (+5 days). First recorded on April 9th at Kingsbury with the last being seen on October 14th at Chasewater.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote –––126233013101–– Earlswood –––210111031––– Shustoke –––244213312–––– Bittell Reservoirs –––4281831––– Bredonʼs Hardwick ––––2–221––– Grimley –––36131381––– Kinsham Lake –––1–––––––– Upton Warren ––––24119–1–– Westwood Pool –––12241––––

110 JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas ––––1–112–––– Barton GP –––32970147–––– Belvide –––5914378493–– Blithfield –––5542621035–– Branston Water Park––––722––––– Chasewater –––310178622–– Croxall NR – – – 10 9 24 22 20–––– Doxey Marshes ––––12–11––– Drayton Bassett Pits–––457711–––– Gailey –––1––1935–––– Tameside NR –––4202062–––– Uttoxeter Quarry ––––264––––– Whitemoor Haye –––5525–––––

Warks It was a disastrous breeding season at our main ternery at Kingsbury; where only 18 pairs (cf. 40 or more in very recent years) were thought to have nested and all were washed out on June 19th by heavy overnight rain which caused local flooding. Five young had been ringed just before this calamity but most were still on eggs. The majority of nesting pairs were reported to have subsequently moved away, although up to 20 were noted during July and August. In contrast, Brandon had a much more successful season, with 12 pairs rearing at least 20 young. The first birds in spring were noted at Kingsbury on April 9th and Draycote on 12th, after which birds were noted daily in increasing numbers, particularly from 16th onwards. Small numbers were noted at most of the major waters south to Earlswood and Draycote, including a maximum of 18 at Coton on May 14th. Further south, odd birds were also noted at Abbots Salford, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Toft Farm Lakes and Wootton Pool. A small number of late birds coincided with an influx of seabirds brought in by strong south- westerlies, and included ten at Common Tern, Marsh Lane NR, Steve Seal Draycote on September 28th and five there on 29th, when a bird was also noted at Earlswood. The last was a juvenile at Draycote on October 2nd. Worcs Three pairs fledged seven young at Grimley while seven were fledged from two pairs at Upton Warren. Away from the tabulated localities, two were observed at Arrow Valley Lake on July 22nd and one at Lower Moor on 29th. Staffs The first returning bird was seen at Blithfield on April 12th. On a positive note, many more nesting colonies were reported this year, but on the negative side, several were washed out by the summer floods. At Barton GP, 35 pairs were washed out, at Belvide, four pairs reared eight fledglings – the best year on record, at Branston Water Park a pair were flooded out, at Croxall, ten pairs nested on the rafts where six young were seen on July 31st, at Doxey a pair started nest building but abandoned, at Drayton Bassett Pits, six adults and a juvenile were recorded early July, at Tameside NR ten pairs were flooded out and at Uttoxeter Quarry, of three pairs, one fledged a juvenile. High numbers at Blithfield and

111 Belvide in the summer suggest failed breeders from around the country thanks to the atrocious summer weather, the highest count of 84 at Belvide on August 18th being a site record. Single figure counts were also received from Aqualate, Blake Hall Fishery, Clay Mills STW, Handsacre Flash, Hatherton Reservoir, Ingestre, River Dove at Fauld, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth, Tixall Wide, Westport and Wyrley Common. The last bird was seen at Chasewater on October 14th where a juvenile had settled since September 29th. W Mid An estimated 14 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, fledging 16 young. An influx here on July 3rd saw 46 adults and at least one juvenile from elsewhere. Up to three birds were occasionally noted at Aldridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hall Green, Netherton Reservoir, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Stubbers Green and Sutton Park.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant in highly variable numbers. Warks Spring passage commenced with singles at Draycote on April 19th and Kingsbury on 20th, with two at Shustoke on 24th. On April 25th there were up to seven at Draycote, with four there on 26th. South-easterly winds on April 30th produced the heaviest passage, with up to 87 during the day at Draycote and 20 through at Alvecote. Subsequent records from Draycote included six on May 1st, 17 on 3rd and two on 4th; while Shustoke had two on April 30th, six on May 1st, and six on 7th. A single bird was also noted at Earlswood Lakes on May 7th. Return passage was unusually prominent, and began with a juvenile at Brandon on August 25th, an adult at Ladywalk on September 7th and an adult and juvenile at Shustoke on 13th–14th. Strong westerly winds during the last third of the month produced one or two juveniles almost daily at Draycote from September 20th–30th, but with an exceptional flock of 40 on 28th and with four still present on 29th. Other juveniles were noted during this period at: Alvecote, one on 19th; Brandon, one on 25th; Coleshill GP, one on 29th; Earlswood Lakes, one on 24th and three on 25th–26th; Kingsbury, up to two from 27th–29th; Ladywalk, three on 28th; and Shustoke, two on 27th. The season closed with single late juveniles at Draycote on October 12th–13th and again on 19th–21st. Worcs One at Grimley on May 4th, was the only spring record. An influx of birds took place during September, comprising three juveniles passing through Upper Bittell Reservoir on 8th, a juvenile and three adults at Upton Warren on 18th, an adult and juvenile at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 19th, with further juveniles there comprising a single from 20th–23rd, two on 24th and 25th and one from 27th–29th. An adult was at Throckmorton Lagoons on 19th, a juvenile at Bredon’s Hardwick on 20th, while a juvenile at Westwood Pool on 22nd, was joined by a second individual from 25th–27th, with one remaining until 28th. Three juveniles were at Throckmorton Lagoons on 24th, a juvenile was at Grimley on 29th and further single juveniles were at Westwood Pool on October 1st and 13th. Staffs Spring passage began with two at Blithfield on April 27th followed by singles at Blithfield, Chasewater and Pool Hall Fisheries on the 28th. There were five at Chasewater on May 1st followed by seven at Belvide and 14 at Blithfield on the 4th with eight on the 8th and two on the 10th. There followed a steady trickle of records with two at Belvide and one a Chasewater on the 11th, two at Barton GP on the 13th, singles at Blithfield on 14th and Belvide on 15th before nine at Blithfield on 17th, singles at Belvide on 18th and 19th and Blithfield on the 25th before a final flourish with 10 at Chasewater on 27th. Return autumn passage, which began with a single at Blithfield on July 21st, was a rather drawn out affair with maxima of four at Blithfield on August 16th and three at Belvide on

112 September 28th. Other than that, most records were of ones or twos with the majority of birds being juveniles. The last bird was seen at Chasewater on October 19th. The records are summarised below:

From To Site Qty Age 20-Jul Belvide 2 1st-summer 21-Jul Belvide 6 adults 21-Jul Blithfield 1 16-Aug Blithfield 4 18-Aug Belvide 1 juvenile 18-Aug Chasewater 1 21-Aug 22-Aug Blithfield 1 juvenile 29-Aug Belvide 1 juvenile 08-Sep Chasewater 2 adult and juv 09-Sep Doxey Marshes 1 11-Sep Chasewater 1 juvenile 16-Sep 21-Sep Blithfield 1 juvenile 16-Sep Gailey 1 juvenile 16-Sep Tittesworth 1 20-Sep 24-Sep Belvide 2 juveniles 22-Sep 26-Sep Blithfield 2 juveniles 23-Sep Drayton Bassett Pits 1 juvenile 24-Sep Chasewater 1 juvenile 25-Sep 28-Sep Belvide 3 juveniles 25-Sep Branston Gravel Pits 1 adult 28-Sep Aqualate 1 29-Sep 30-Sep Belvide 1 juvenile 29-Sep Blithfield 1 adult 29-Sep Gailey 1 juvenile 29-Sep Tittesworth 2 juveniles 30-Sep 01-Oct Blithfield 1 juvenile 30-Sep Tittesworth 1 juvenile 03-Oct Belvide 1 juvenile 07-Oct Tittesworth 1 09-Oct Belvide 1 juvenile 09-Oct Blithfield 1 14-Oct 19-Oct Chasewater 1 juvenile

W Mid One visited Sandwell Valley on 3rd July. At Marsh Lane NR on August 21st, at least one bird flew through and six roosted overnight departing early next morning, and single birds were noted on 24th and 27th–28th.

2006 Addendum W Mid Two were present in Sandwell Valley on September 10th.

113 Little Tern Sternula albifrons Scarce passage migrant. Warks The only report was of two adults at Earlswood Lakes on July 13th, with at least one of these still present early next morning ARD et al. W Mid Two birds at Marsh Lane NR on April 26th were the first for the site per NPB.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant. Warks A very poor year with only about 20 individuals recorded. Spring passage began early, with singles at Draycote on April 18th and 25th–26th, five there on 28th, and also five at Kingsbury on 27th. The only reports in May were of singles (but possibly with only one bird involved) at both Lea Marston and Shustoke on 14th, while three late birds were at Draycote on June 9th. Post-breeding records involved singles at Brandon on July 17th, Shustoke on 23rd, and Draycote on August 8th and from 21st–24th. Worcs A poor spring and autumn passage through the county, with just six observations comprising ten individuals. Singles were reported from Westwood Pool on May 1st and Throckmorton Lagoons on 27th, two were noted at Upper Bittell Reservoir on June 14th, one at Grimley on July 21st, while autumn sightings comprised three at Upper Bittell Reservoir from September 22nd–25th, then two here on October 3rd. Staffs The exceptional numbers in the past two years (127 in 2006, 112 in 2005) were brought to an end this year by a very poor showing of just 20 birds. First arrivals were two at Aqualate and one at Tittesworth on April 29th, then three at Belvide and one at Blithfield on 30th, the latter staying until May 2nd. One at Aqualate on May 1st–2nd, two at Clay Mills STW on 2nd, Chasewater on 14th, June 15th–16th and Blithfield on 16th were followed by three at Aqualate on July 21st, Blithfield and Aqualate on 23rd, a juvenile at Chasewater on September 24th–25th and Blithfield on October 6th.

2006 Addendum W Mid A total of 19 birds were counted in Sandwell Valley on September 14th.

Little Auk Alle alle Very rare wind-blown winter vagrant (4/10). Warks A partially eaten corpse, estimated to have been dead two-three weeks, was found at Salford Priors GP on December 2nd JJB. A number had been recorded inland around November 13th–15th after violent storms in the North Sea, including an unconfirmed report of another dead bird being scavenged by a gull at Draycote on 14th.

Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Warks This very under-recorded bird was said to be increasing at the Brandon Visitors’ Centre feeding station, with a peak of 56 on December 16th. The only other flock of more than 20 reported was one of 26 at Bulkington on June 23rd. Worcs No significant records received. Staffs 40 at Sittles on November 24th was the largest count. W Mid High counts included 60 at Cradley Heath on February 16th, 100 at West Park on August 22nd, 150 at West Bromwich on September 19th, 100 at Aston on November 28th and 50 at Smethwick Hall Park on December 16th.

114 Stock Dove Columba oenas Very common resident. Warks Only 17 on the DMC Kineton May count was the same as in 2006, but both were less than half the average total and both were easily the lowest since the census began in 1987. Other breeding season records included three territories on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth, three in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (as in 2006), and four in 40 ha of pasture land at Oldberrow (cf. two in 2006, four in 2005). The only large flock reported during the late winter period was at Fenny Compton, where there was a peak of 250 on January 11th. Autumn flocks included maxima of 100 at Watergall on September 29th, 150 at Salford Priors GP on October 21st, 150 near Wormleighton Res on November 28th and 110 near Ennister Wood (Ragley) on December 2nd. Worcs One pair nested at Little Comberton and noted during the breeding season at Grimley and at Chapter Meadows in Worcester. Counts comprised 43 at Grimley on April 12th, 30+ at Abberton on October 28th and 30+ at South Littleton on December 1st. Small numbers also noted at Arrow Valley CP, Bittell Reservoirs, Hewell Grange, Malvern Link, Stoke Bliss, Tardebigge Reservoir, Upton Warren, Wyre Forest. Staffs Four or five pairs bred at Belvide, pairs possibly bred at Cannock Chase and Pipe Green and recorded at 23 other sites late April through June, including 12 at Barton GP, 15 at Silverdale Colliery and 20 at Whitmore Bent Lane. Larger counts, recorded include 47 at Gailey and 28 at Whitmore Bent Lane in January; 100 at Coal Brook, Hales, 15 at Tixall Bridge and 19 at Winnington in February; 13 at Sutton in September; 19 at River Sow Meadows in October; 18 at Chillington and 13 at Denstone in November and 16 at Whitmore Bent Lane in December. W Mid A CBC in Saltwells Wood revealed 13 territories, compared to one in the last equivalent survey in 1983. Five territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, one less than last year, but equal to the average over the last 16 years. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Berkswell, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Kingswinford, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs may have bred), Reedswood Park, Robin Hood Golf Course, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley (perhaps ten or more pairs). At Dunstall Park, 16 birds were present on January 18th. Up to four migrants flew over Netherton Hill on each of nine dates from October 18th to November 12th. Up to 22 birds fed at Marsh Lane NR during December. Counts of at least eight birds came from Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley during the year. Fewer numbers were noted at Aldridge, Blythe Valley, Cole Valley, Haden Hill Park, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Netherton Reservoir, Pedmore, Rednal, Sutton Park, Warley Woods, Westwood Heath, Windsor Fields and Winson Green. Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks Census results were mixed, but suggest that the population may not be as high as it was several years ago. Territory counts included 13 in 72 ha of Kingsbury/Edge Hill Woods (cf. 16 in 2005), 22 on a 79 ha arable farm containing several small woodlands at Lapworth, ten in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot (continuing a steady decline from 16 in 2004) and ten in 40 ha of pasture at Oldberrow (an increase from seven in 2005-6). At DMC Kineton the May count of 280 was the lowest since 1998. Outside the breeding season flock sizes were rather average at both ends of the year. During the first quarter the best counts included 700 at Watergall on January 5th, 1000 at Lower Radbourn on 14th, 650 near Wormleighton Res on 16th, 1200 at Fenny Compton on February 18th,

115 750 at Copdock Hill on March 6th, 1000 at Salford Priors GP on 11th and 1000 in Ennister Wood (Ragley estate) on 18th. Autumn records included maxima of 850 at Fenny Compton on October 13th, 800 at Salford Priors GP on 21st, 600 at Black Martin Hill (Ettington) and 750 at Armscote on 27th, 1016 in fields at on November 19th, 880 at on 23rd, and finally roosts of 900 in Itchington Holt and over 1000 in both Ennister Wood and Oversley Wood on December 16th. Worcs A count of 1200 feeding on oilseed rape crop was made at Sheriff’s Lench on February 16th, while an albino bird was at Little Comberton from February 10th to April 3rd. Staffs 10-15 pairs bred at Belvide and 16 at Doxey. In the first winter period, larger flocks included 400 at Weston Jones Mills in January, 500 at Coldmeece in February, 700 at Cuckoo Bank, 200 at Essington Quarry Pool and Weston Jones in March and 300 in April at River Sow Meadows. A flock of 250 built up at River Sow Meadows mid-July. Autumn passage birds were noted two weeks earlier than usual this year, with 37,400 birds heading south logged in total. The table below details the principal counts, the incredible passage in mid-October peaking at 8900 at Black Bank on 18th a county record and more than doubling the previous highest in 2004 NDP. The late November/December move - ments back north are in keeping with records from other migration watch points in the UK, but the reasons behind it are not fully understood. Passage birds only start moving just after dawn and cease within two hours – there is no evidence of nocturnal movement, so the distances travelled daily are unlikely to be very large, but may build up over the course of the seven or more weeks during which passage occurs.

Date Site Count Direction Sep 22nd Ingestre 200 SW 28th Black Bank 75 W Oct 5th Black Bank 344 96N, 248S 16th Black Bank 544 S 17th Black Bank 7600 S 18th Black Bank 8900 S 19th Black Bank 3235 S Swynnerton 200 SW 20th Belvide 918 SW 21st Belvide 456 SW Black Bank 300 S 22nd Black Bank 1350 S 23rd Black Bank 215 S 24th Black Bank 1810 S 30th Black Bank 3750 S Nov 1st Yoxall 400 SW 6th Black Bank 2150 S 9th Anslow 800 WSW 12th Black Bank 1600 S 15th Black Bank 540 68S, 473N 17th Westport Lake 229 NE/E 22nd Black Bank 520 N 29th Black Bank 530 N Dec 1st Black Bank 410 N 15th Blithfield 150 N Larger counts in the second winter period included 450 at Whitmore Bent Lane in October, 300 at Blithfield, 350 at Chasewater and 1500 at Whitmore Bent Lane in November and 1250 at Anslow, 400 at Blithfield, 500 at Elford GP and Weston Jones in December.

116 W Mid Eleven territories on the Mons Hill CBC plot constituted the lowest total since monitoring began in 1992; 16 were noted last year and the 16 year average is 17. About 270 birds were counted in Saltwells Wood on January 28th, whilst some 600 roosted on February 13th. Other late winter maxima included 250 over Reedswood Park on January 14th, 200 at Blythe Valley CP on February 19th and 258 at Aldridge on March 3rd. Autumn migration included 268 at Aldridge on September 22nd, 213 in Coundon Wedge on 29th, 212 over Dunstall Park on October 16th and 385 on November 3rd, and at least 295 birds over Marsh Lane NR on October 20th. High counts during December included 369 over Wollaston on 18th and 400 at Cornets End on 26th. Visible migration over Netherton Hill gave the following counts:

October November 18th 20th 25th 29th 30th 31st 1st 4th 12th 435 265 40 1000 331 780 550 176 400

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks Few reports were received, although flock size appeared genuinely down. The best counts were of 15 in a Tredington garden on January 1st, 16 at Kingswood on February 28th and 32 in a Dunnington orchard on November 11th. Nest-building was observed in a Fenny Compton garden on January 13th. Worcs A count of 29 at Gwen Finch Wetland on October 14th was the only record received. Staffs Larger counts include 31 flying out from the Fenton Cemetery roost on February 3rd, 17 at Weston Jones – Kemsey Manor on October 7th, 26 at Whitley Ford on November 11th and 12 at Berry Hill on 30th. W Mid High totals included 15 at Ketley Farm (Kingswinford) in January, eleven at Druids Heath in March and 14 at Wollaston in October.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Frequent or fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant, mainly to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Long-term average: April 27th (72) to September 25th (72). 8-year average: April 27th (=) to September 21st (–4 days). First noted on April 22nd at Cropthorne with the last on September 19th at Throckmorton. Warks A second poor year in succession, with just 17 singing males reported during the breeding season. Confirmed or probable breeding pairs were recorded at Calcutt, Fenny Compton, Kites Hardwick (three on Toft Farm), Milcote, Salford Priors GP, Weston-on- Avon and Wolfhampcote (two). Further singing males were noted at Bidford-on-Avon, DMC Kineton, Hampton Lucy, Radway, Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. It was a disastrous year in the Tame Valley where the species appears to be on the brink of extinction, the only record was of a singing male at Kingsbury in July. The first spring migrants appeared at Abbots Salford on April 26th and at Cold Comfort Wood (Alcester) on 29th, but very few others were noted away from breeding sites. In the post-breeding period an exceptional count of 17 on wires over a rape field at Salford Priors GP on July 22nd JJB, points to perhaps greater numbers in that area than had previously been recorded. Amongst the very few to be reported on return passage was a bird unfortunately killed by a car at Northend on August 25th, while the latest record was of one at Kites Hardwick on September 5th.

117 Worcs Two adults accompanied by three juveniles were noted at Honeybourne in July, while at Throckmorton, two pairs were present during the breeding season, with four juveniles noted there on September 14th, a pair nested successfully at Little Comberton (the 37th year this species has nested at this locality) and two pairs were noted at Church Lench Pools on June 1st. Elsewhere small numbers were noted in the Lower Moor area from May 24th until August 22nd peaking at three between June 18th–July 3rd, while two juveniles were noted here on August 5th. The first returning birds were noted at Crop - thorne on April 22nd, Harvington Lakes on 25th and Little Comberton on 29th. During May, three were at Grimley on 5th and two there on 19th, with singles noted at Wick on 18th, Birlingham on 25th, Holt and Sheriffs Lench on 26th, Marlbrook on 29th, while in June, four were at Sheriffs Lench on 7th, two at Hollybed Common on 9th and two at Westwood Pool on 17th. July records comprised two at Hollybed Common, singles at Coombegreen Common on 1st, Grimley on 7th, Old Hills on 11th, Ryall Pits on 14th, two at Saxon’s Lode on 21st and one at Swinyard Hill on 24th, while in August, singles were at Fladbury on 6th, and Throckmorton Lagoons 22nd and finally, September sightings comprised one at Sheriffs Lench on 16th and two at Throckmorton on 19th. Staffs Spring migrants were first seen at Acton Trussell with two on May 1st RCB, then at Keele University on 15th MSu and Lower Loxley, Admaston on 18th MCr. Up to three birds were seen at two sites on Cannock Chase between May 1st and July 31st RCB, GJM et al. but no evidence of breeding was apparent. In the autumn, up to three birds were seen at Bellamour Lane (East Bishton) between August 19th and September 2nd. W Mid One flew southwards over Dunstall Park with Wood Pigeons on October 16th – the third local record GAC.

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor which has bred. Warks Singles were noted at Princethorpe on April 28th JJB and Warwick on August 2nd JJB; a bird was at Whitnash on September 30th and again on November 8th, 25th and December 3rd ALit; while two flew west at Snitterfield Bushes on December 10th MOs. Worcs One was observed at Grafton Wood on August 12th MJI. W Mid A pair bred at Handsworth Wood: two adults and one immature were seen on garden feeders in June. Birds were present during the breeding season in Sandwell Valley and probably nested, as eight flew over the golf course on August 25th. Singles visited Smestow Valley on April 18th, a Balsall Common garden on May 27th at least, an Olton garden for a week around September 29th and Selly Oak on November 15th. Birds were also reported along the Cole Valley and at Handsworth Park.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Long-term average: April 11th (71) to September 6th (70). 8-year average: April 8th (–3 days) to September 1st (–5 days). First noted on April 3rd at Astwood Bank and Castlemorton Common with the final bird on the very late date of October 7th at Kinwalsey. Warks A total of 70 calling males were reported from 44 sites, which compares to 70 at 49 in 2006 and 86 at 53 in 2005, which seems to indicate that the species is becoming increasingly concentrated at certain localities as it declines. The main area has in recent years been the vicinity of DMC Kineton and here the total of 13 calling males was slightly up on the last two years. Elsewhere the best counts of males were three each at Brandon,

118 Coldcomfort (Alcester) and Morton Bagot. The first spring migrants were seen at Salford Priors GP on April 15th and Radway on 16th. At the end of the breeding season the last adult was seen at Harbury on July 23rd while the few reported juveniles continued to August 9th (at Brandon). Two later reports of juveniles were received with one at Salford Priors GP on September 9th and another flying across the M6 near Kinwalsey on October 7th AWHW, only two days earlier than the county latest date. A hepatic female was seen by many observers at Brandon between mid-May and June 10th. Worcs Three birds were noted daily at Lower Moor from April 25th–July 7th and three males held territories at Gwen Finch Wetland during May and June. First noted on April 3rd with singles at Astwood Bank and Castlemorton Common, followed by singles at Clifton Pits and Hollybed Common on 15th, Lower Moor on 19th, Stoke Bliss on 20th, Holt on 21st, while two were in the Wyre Forest on 23rd and another two at Grimley on 24th. May records comprised birds at Chaddesley Woods (two), Church Lench Pools (two), Deblin’s Green, Little Comberton, Oakley Marsh, Oxford, Salwarpe, Woods, Upton Warren and Wyre Forest (3), with the last being noted at Lower Moor was on July 9th. Staffs The first bird arrived on April 13th at the Katyn Memorial, thereafter, recorded almost daily until June 12th, after which there were eight more sightings in June, six in July and the final records of a juvenile at Tittesworth on August 2nd and a lingering female at Crossplains from 5th–15th. The only other juvenile was one being fed by a Meadow Pipit at Chasewater from July 14th–17th. The Cannock Chase survey resulted in 32 birds heard in different locations, but the actual number this represents is probably lower and an estimate of 10 breeding females would appear to be reasonable. The estimate in 2002 of 20 breeding females may have been overstated as these birds have very large territories that are difficult to define, thus there appears to be little change in the past five years. The only other sites with more than one calling male were Apedale CP (two), Aqualate (three) and Hanchurch Woods (two).

Year 2005 2006 2007 Sites with calling birds 60 49 51 W Mid Probably bred at Marsh Lane NR: a pair was present from April 30th to May 9th, with three birds seen on May 2nd, and one again on 31st and a juvenile on August 16th. Birds were also noted in Smestow Valley from April 16th–28th and again on May 13th, Sutton Park on April 30th and June 21st, Chadwick End on May 2nd, with two on June 6th, Hockley Heath from May 3rd–14th, Berkswell Park on June 5th, Walsall Arboretum on 14th and The Spinney on 24th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent, but much declined, resident. Warks Fewer reports were received, but this probably reflects poorer field coverage and a growing familiarity with this species in rural areas. Breeding was suspected or proved at a number of last year’s sites, as well as at Cherington, Clifford Chambers, Coombe Abbey, Eathorpe, Gaydon, , Lapworth, Priors Marston and near Stratford-upon-Avon. In all it was reported during the year from about 70 sites. Worcs Successful breeding was noted at Grimley and Sheriff’s Lench, while a breeding pair was also noted at Lower Moor and birds were seen on several occasions at Gwen Finch Wetland from June-October, while other breeding season records were made at , Hampton, Little Compton and Wick. In January one was found dead at Wilden on 10th and singles were also noted at Cowsdon on 17th and Throckmorton on 21st and 27th, while in

119 February singles were at Lenchwick on 2nd and Huddington on 10th, one or two were in the Kyre and Stoke Bliss area during March, one was at Throckmorton on 6th, two were between junctions 6 and 8 of the M5 on 11th, singles were at Cowsdon on 15th and Pensax on 24th and one was at Hanbury on April 10th. In November singles were at Hanley Swan and near Stanford Bridge on 17th, at Newland on 28th, while during December roosting birds were noted at Kinsham Lake and singles were at Cowsdon on 10th, Throckmorton on 24th and 29th, with two there on 31st and one at Hanley Swan on 27th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed from 18 sites and a further nine held hunting birds during the summer. One of the Tittesworth pair was discovered with a broken wing in January and was taken into care, but sadly died. In all they were recorded from 75 sites cf. 96 in 2006 and 62 in 2005. W Mid A pair bred at Fen End. Single birds were noted in Smestow Valley on January 24th, Tettenhall College on June 18th, roosting at Marsh Lane NR from September 25th–30th, and in Sandwell Valley on November 1st and December 8th. 2006 Addendum W Mid A pair bred at a private site in the north of the county. 2005 Addendum W Mid A pair bred at a private site in the north of the county.

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common resident. Warks The suspected decline reported last year appears to be more widespread across the county than at first thought, with observers from the north, west and south-east commenting on less frequent sightings in their local areas. Breeding pairs were only reported from six localities (cf. 16 in 2006), at: Fenny Compton, Haseley, Packington Park (at least four), Shelfield Green, Upper Shuckburgh (three) and Withybrook. In total only 38 localities featured, which is less than half the 80 sites recorded in 2004. All records and comments on local status will obviously be needed in future to help assess Little Owl, Packington, Steve Seal this worrying decline. Worcs Bred at Bittell Reservoirs, where a pair was seen with two juveniles in July and August and also bred at Lower Moor, while several pairs were noted on Bredon Hill throughout the year. Also present throughout the year at Grimley, Kinsham Lake, Kempsey and Shenstone, while singles were regularly encountered at Castlemorton, Coombegreen and Hollybed Commons. Singles were also noted at Frankley on February 20th, Churchill on March 12th, Upton Warren on April 1st, Arrow Valley North and Lowans Farm, Redditch on May 20th, on June 12th, Ockeridge Wood on 13th, Westmancote on July 12th, Holt Heath on October 23rd, Hanbury Park on 25th, Wadborough on 27th, Oakley Pool on November 2nd, Hillside on 14th and Upper Broadheath on 16th.

120 Staffs Widespread throughout the county, with breeding pairs reported from Anslow Park (three pairs), Belvide (two pairs on adjoining farmland), Church Mayfield, Denstone (one young), Drystone Edge, Elford Park Farm (three young), Ingestre (two young), Lask Edge (pair feeding young) and Thorswood. Breeding season sightings came from an additional 33 sites and a further 19 held birds in the winter, the most being five in the Crossplains area late August. W Mid A pair raised one youngster at Marsh Lane NR. Two birds were seen at Frankley Reservoir on January 29th. Singles were noted in Sandwell Valley in January, February, April and August, Erdington on May 17th, Smestow Valley on August 11th and 15th, Dorridge on September 12th, Blythe Valley CP on October 14th and December 24th, and Westwood Heath on November 16th.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco Fairly common resident. Warks No change in status with reports from a total of 54 sites. Confirmed breeding pairs were reported from: Avon Dassett, Baginton, Brandon (in nest box), Compton Verney, Farnborough, Hartshill Hayes (where the nest was robbed by an egg collector), Haseley (several pairs in the area), Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lower Clopton (Park Wood), Radford Semele (in nest box), Ryton Wood (three occupied nest boxes produced ten young) and Upton. Worcs Bred successfully at Stoke Bliss, a pair was seen at Abberton with three juveniles during May, a juvenile was at Kempsey on May 2nd, a pair bred at Lower Moor, two pairs bred on the Kemerton Estate and several pairs were noted as resident on Bredon Hill. Other breeding season records comprised singles at Northwick, Trench Wood and Tiddesley Wood. During January three were at Abberton on 28th and one was at Marlbrook on 29th, while one was in a Malvern Link garden on August 31st. One was roosting in a barn on Bredon Hill on September 10th, while in October one was noted in Droitwich on 13th and in December, singles were at Midsummer Hill and near Upper Arley on 22nd. Staffs Breeding confirmed at Apedale CP (one pair, three young), Baggeridge CP (two young), Belvide (two pairs, three young), Blithfield (two young), Hanchurch Woods (three+ pairs with young) and Weston Jones (one pair, one young). 17 territories were located across Cannock Chase, one more than in 2002. Reported from 68 sites in total (44 in 2006, 50 in 2005), including four at Thorswood and Ingestre. W Mid At least one pair bred in Saltwells Wood, raising at least two young, and a pair raised at least one young at Clayhanger. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Acocks Green, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR, Smestow Valley (at least four pairs) and Walsall. Others were recorded in Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Kingswinford, Old Swinford, Tidbury Green, Warstock and Wollaston.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks In the Tame Valley a bird was reported from Ladywalk on July 24th per SLC, while possibly the same bird was flushed from a roost site near Lea Marston on September 4th JHa. During the late autumn period, a bird was seen at dusk at Coton on November 12th ARD, with another found roosting in a hawthorn bush at Brandon on 23rd JMR et al. Finally, a bird was seen after dark by car headlights perched in a roadside hedge at Flecknoe on Christmas Day TMa.

121 Staffs Three, possibly four, pairs bred on Cannock Chase, juveniles were seen at three other sites and three additional sites held territorial birds (cf. two in 2006, 12-13 in 2005, 11 in 2004, nine in 2003). In the first winter period, up to three were present at Park Hall. One was recorded at Belvide on and off between July 10th and August 25th, with two on August 6th and again one on November 2nd. An emaciated juvenile was taken into care when it was found on Meadow Road Stafford on August 16th. W Mid One was heard calling at Selly Oak on April 8th and 15th.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeding species. Warks Most reports this year came from the traditional roost site at Priors Hardwick, where up to four were present regularly from at least January 14th–March 24th, with the last bird seen there on April 1st. Three were back at the roost site on December 18th and 30th. The only other records were of singles at Brandon on November 7th and in set-aside at Knightcote on December 26th. Worcs Eckington Meadows held one from January 26th, with three birds present on February 14th and then two from 19th–March 22nd, with one remaining until April 5th. Elsewhere, singles were noted at Bredon Hill on April 13th, Defford Airfield on September 4th, Bredon Hill on October 11th, Clifton Pits on 27th and Throckmorton on November 21st, December 30th and 31st. A probable of this species was also noted at dusk at Grimley on October 19th, but the views were insufficient to rule out Long-eared Owl. Staffs One pair fledged one young and another pair prospected but probably did not attempt. The first winter period was very poor, with just five records; Sherbrook Valley on February 2nd, Cuckoo Bank on 7th and March 16th, Croxall NR on March 6th and Blithfield on April 14th. The second winter period was better, with birds at Blithfield on October 14th, Berry Hill 30th, Hanchurch Woods on November 4th, Chasewater (two) on November 17th, one remaining until December 7th, Middle Hills and Thick Withens on November 23rd, Belvide on December 6th–20th, Uttoxeter Quarry and Mermaid Inn on 9th and Drayton Bassett Pits on 21st.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon to frequent, but very local summer resident, mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant. Long-term average: May 16th (64) to August 22nd (46). 8-year average: May 8th (–8 days) to August 14th (–8 days). Bucking the trend of recent early arrivals, the first was on May 17th. Staffs Although numbers decreased on Cannock Chase, it is extremely encouraging to report birds from an additional eight woodland sites in the county, a substantial increase on last years three sites. The first two churring birds were heard at Badger Slade/Katyn Memorial on May 17th, 11 days later than last year. The Cannock Chase survey produced 42 churring males, down from the record 75 in 2002. This was considered to be due to a reduction in suitable habitat as part of the scheduled increase in wooded areas, along with the appalling weather conditions during the summer. Numbers were also down at Hanchurch Woods with just two pairs located. However, new sites reporting churring birds were Bishop’s Wood and Maer Hills and there were singles/pairs also present at four other confidential sites, two in the north of the county and two in the west. The expansion in sites could be due to population increase, a decrease of suitable habitat on The Chase, or both. The last bird of the year was heard on July 16th at one of the confidential sites.

122 Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 23rd (73) to September 28th (73). 8-year average: April 19th (–4 days) to October 2nd (+4 days). In line with earlier arrivals, the first was seen on April 17th at Chasewater and at a number of sites the next day. The last was at Draycote on September 25th. Warks The earliest spring birds arrived at Alcester on April 18th, and at Camp Hill (Nuneaton) and Cryfield (four) on 19th, with small numbers at most of the main waters over the next few days. Some of the larger counts at this time included 30 at Coton on April 23rd, 60 at Draycote on 24th–25th, 50 at Shustoke and 70 through Kingsbury on 25th, and 100 at Brandon on 27th. Subsequent counts of spring migrants were rather low by recent standards, with maxima of just 300 at Draycote on May 4th and 450 at Shustoke on 12th. Summer flocks were widely reported, with the larger ones comprising 250 at Salford Priors GP on May 28th, 500 at Longbridge STW on 29th, 200 at Brandon on 30th, 200 at Coton on June 6th, 200 at Ladywalk on July 1st, 400 over Withybrook on 4th, 500 at Shustoke on 6th, 700 feeding low during a period of rain at Draycote on 13th, and 200 moving south over one hour in the Avon Valley at Charlecote on 25th. The last presumably involved departing migrants and the species was widespread in the county up until about August 12th. Later records were erratic and mainly involved migrants, apart from a late brood at Fenny Compton which stayed until August 27th. The best count at this time was 20 at Draycote on August 22nd, while scattered records of very small numbers continued to be reported up to September 3rd. Two late records involved singles at Abbots Salford on September 19th and Draycote on 25th. Worcs Four were noted over Worcestershire Beacon on April 18th, while one was at Northwick on 20th, six at Bittell Reservoirs and one at Oakley Pool on 21st, six at Kinsham Lake on 23rd, two at Westwood Pool on 29th, Evesham on 30th and two at Kyre on May 10th. Post-breeding gatherings comprised 50 at Lower Moor on July 7th, 300 at Westwood Pool on 13th and 250 at Berkeley Pendesham (Worcester) on 20th, while the last few records comprised one at Bredon’s Hardwick and two at Kinsham Lake on August 18th, two at Broadway and one at Lower Moor on 20th, one at Upton Snodsbury on 21st and lastly one at Stanford Bridge on 31st. Staffs The first arrival was at Chasewater on April 17th, with numbers gradually increasing to three figures by 25th when 100 were counted at Aqualate and Chasewater. The major influx did not occur however until early May when peak counts were made of 1000 at Belvide on 4th and 500 on 5th; 500 at Chasewater on 10th, 2000 at Belvide on 11th and 1000 at Blithfield and 600 at Chasewater on 14th. The only breeding colonies noted were seven pairs at Alton and five+ pairs at West End, Stoke. The largest autumn accumu- lation was 130 at Belvide on August 18th with the last sightings of two birds occurring at Aqualate on September 4th and Norton on 7th. W Mid High counts included 100 at Chelmsley Wood and 40 at Pedmore on May 14th, 100 at Marsh Lane NR on 14th and 29th, 77 at West Bromwich on June 26th, 90 at Aldridge on July 10th and 40 in Smestow Valley on 19th and August 4th.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Warks The breeding population appears to remain at a satisfactory level, with breeding season records reported from a total of 38 sites (cf. 33 in 2006). Breeding pairs were located at: Barford, Brandon (two), Broom, Charlecote Park, Coombe Abbey, Farnborough

123 Park, Hampton Lucy, Ladywalk, Sherbourne, Stoneleigh, Wasperton, Woolscott and Wormleighton. Breeding season records further came from: Abbots Salford, Alcester (River Arrow), Arley, Baginton, Bermuda, Chessetts Wood, Compton Verney, Coton, Dosthill, Draycote, Ful brook, Guy’s Cliffe, Kings bury, Kites Hardwick, Langley, Lea Marston, Lighthorne, Marl - cliff, Morton Bagot, Off- church, Packington, Salford Priors, Whitacre Heath, Whittleford Park and Wootton Wawen. It was seen at most suitable wetland sites outside the breeding season, while one even visited an Arley garden on June 28th despite the pond having long since dried up! Worcs One or two pairs were noted at Arrow Valley CP, plus Kyre Pool and birds were seen regularly through out the year at Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon, Bredon’s Kingfisher, Brandon, Steve Seal Hardwick, Brotheridge Green, Corn Brook, Dowles Brook, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Heightington Brook, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, River Rhea, Throckmorton Lagoons, Upper Arley, Upton Warren and in the Wyre Forest. Further records comprised one at Hilditch Pool on April 28th, one found dead on a road near Tenbury Wells on May 14th, and singles at Ryall Pits on July 15th, Abberton on October 1st, Clevelode on 14th and along the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe during November. Staffs Breeding was confirmed only at Doxey Marshes and Belvide although suspected at two sites near Rudyard Lake, at Ingestre, Cowley and Westport Lake. The species was again well reported around the county from a total of 71 sites, mainly in singles although up to four birds were noted at Belvide on June 11th and at Westport in August and December. W Mid Breeding took place at Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley, and probably did near Marsh Lane NR, where single birds were seen at least once each month from March to December, except for three on October 18th. Birds were also seen during the breeding season at Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Knowle, Rea Valley, Smestow Valley and Walsall Arboretum. Otherwise noted in Cole Valley, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Reedswood Park (the observer’s first in 35 years), Saltwells LNR and Sheepwash UP.

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster Very rare vagrant (0/10). Worcs One lingered at Upton Warren for a short time on May 28th but despite the inclement weather at the time, it promptly moved on before the crowds descended JEb et al. This was the third county record; the last being at Redditch in 1970.

124 Hoopoe Upupa epops Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10). Worcs A mobile and elusive bird was present around the sailing lake at Upton Warren on May 1st AWa et al. Staffs A bird spent three minutes in the observer’s garden at Whiston on May 10th before flying off SSt. Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1941. Warks One was photographed in a Snitterfield garden on September 17th TSc. Worcs One frequented gardens in Stoke Prior from September 13th–16th BVi et al. Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Fairly common resident. Warks No change in status. Seven pairs were located in Fenny Compton parish, compared with six in 2003. The largest count reported was ten at Brandon on July 11th, while a rare melanistic bird was reported from Ryton Wood on July 8th. Worcs Present throughout the breeding season on the Malvern Hills, where three juveniles were noted on North Hill on July 22nd, where at least 12 birds were present on October 21st. Common and widespread throughout the county with birds noted at Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common, Chase End Woods, Clevelode, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Holt, Malvern Link, North Hill, Pipers Hill Common, Salwarpe, Table Hill, Upton Warren, West of England Quarry and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Juveniles were reported from Black Bank, Branston Gravel Pits, Cross Hayes, Croxall NR, Cuckoo Bank, Harpers Marsh and Little Ferneyford, however this bird is clearly widespread and breeding throughout the county. The largest gathering was six at Elford GP on July 7th, and five birds were recorded at Cannock Chase – Brocton Coppice on May 4th and October 21st, and at Chasewater on October 4th–7th. W Mid Four territories were recorded in a CBC of Saltwells Wood; none were con - firmed during the last comparable survey in 1983. As usual, one pair bred on the Mons Hill CBC plot. A pair also bred near to Marsh Lane NR, raising two young, whilst juveniles were also seen in Sandwell Valley. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Aldridge, Amblecote, Berkswell, Bradnocks Marsh, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Harborne, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, Pedmore, Rea Valley, Reeds - wood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich and Windsor Fields. Also seen at Allesley, Blackheath, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Cornets End, Cradley, Druids Heath Golf Course, Edgbaston, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Hawne Park, Major’s Green, Minworth STW, Sheepwash UP, Tidbury Green, Walsall, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, Westwood Heath, Winson Green, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley. Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Fairly common to common resident. Warks Counts of breeding pairs of this common bird included 12 in the Brandon Wood- Piles Coppice area, five at Compton Verney, and three each at Farnborough Park, Kings - bury Wood and Wormleighton Res. Reports of drumming birds included six in the Upper Shuckburgh area on March 7th and up to seven at Brandon Marsh in the same month, while winter counts included six in New Fallings Coppice, Earlswood on November 2nd and six in Wellesbourne Wood on 19th.

125 Worcs Successful breeding was confirmed at Birchen Coppice and Grimley, but this common and widespread woodpecker was noted throughout the county, with birds recorded at Arrow Valley CP, Beaconwood, Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common, Clevelode, Evesham, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Lion Wood, Malvern Link, Monk Wood, Pipers Hill Common, Salwarpe, Upton Warren, West of England Quarry and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Drumming was noted from January 7th until May 25th and breeding was confirmed from Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Belvide (two pairs), Blithfield (two), Creswell Piece, Dimmingsdale (five), Doxey (two), Ingestre, Pipe Green (two), Seven Springs, Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge and Weston Jones. 87 other sites held birds during the breeding season. 63 territories were located on Cannock Chase, an increase of 10 over 2002. High counts consisted of six at Hanchurch Woods on April 15th and River Sow Meadows September 16th and December 1st, eight at Tixall Bridge on May 26th and 13 at Han- church Woods on November 4th. W Mid Nine territories were recorded in a CBC of Saltwells Wood; none were confirmed during the last comparable survey in 1983. As usual, one pair bred on the Mons Hill CBC plot. At least one pair also bred near to Marsh Lane NR, raising two plus young. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at Aldridge, Bearwood, Berkswell, Black Patch Park, Blythe Valley CP, Chadbrook Walkway, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Druids Heath, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hockley, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, Pedmore, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sceptre Park, Smestow Valley, Tidbury Green, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Windsor Fields and Winterbourne.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor Frequent to fairly common resident. Warks A pair was seen feeding young in the nest at DMC Kineton, where a second pair was suspected to be present in the breeding season. The only other evidence of breeding was of a bird watched cleaning out an old nest hole in a dead tree by the River Avon near Stratford Racecourse on October 5th. Otherwise there was again a drop in the number of sites where this species was seen during the year, with 30 featuring (cf. 35 in 2006, 47 in 2005), reflecting a real decline. These sites comprised: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Arbury Park, Ashorne, Barford, Brandon, Charlecote GP, Chesterton Pools, Clowes Wood – New Fallings Coppice (Earlswood), Coombe Abbey, Coton, Farnborough Park, Guy’s Cliffe, Hartshill Hayes, Kingswood, Ladbroke, Ladywalk, Langley, Morton Bagot, Napton, Packington Park, Radway, , Ryton Wood, Shuckburgh Hills, Swift Valley CP, Welford-on-Avon and Whitacre Heath NR. Worcs Two pairs nested in the Wyre Forest but only one was successful, while further nesting pairs were noted at Habberley Valley, Rock Coppice and Shatterford. Noted throughout the year across the Wyre Forest while other records comprised singles at Grimley on January 17th, Wharton Park Golf Club on 27th, Devil’s Spittleful on February 11th, and Bittell Reservoirs on 19th. March records comprised singles at Devil’s Spittleful on 6th and 10th, Wassell Wood on 7th, Arley Wood on 9th, Wissetts Wood on 13th, Bittell Reservoirs on 14th and 18th, a pair at the Rifle Range on 16th, Hanley Dingle on 27th and a female at Devil’s Spittleful on 28th, while in April singles were at Severn Valley CP on 4th, Bittell Reservoirs on 2nd and 13th and a pair were there on 7th. Singles were also noted at Trimpley Reservoir on May 6th, Tanwood on June 1st, Hanley Swan on September 2nd, Ryall Pits on October 19th and Rous Lench on December 25th.

126 Staffs In contrast to Great Spotted Woodpecker, the fortunes of this bird continue to decline – just 36 sightings from 19 sites this year. Breeding was confirmed from one site in the north of the county and suspected at nine others, including two at Cannock Chase, down from three in 1997 and 2002. Winter sightings came from Chillington on January 7th, Weeping Cross from 17th–19th, Belvide on 24th, Yoxall Park on 26th, a male at Highgate Common on 27th, Belvide on February 18th, Yoxall Park on November 11th, Trentham Gardens on 12th, Fauld Industrial Estate on 21st and Doxey on 23rd. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, single birds were seen on March 1st, May 4th and 19th, August 11th and September 14th, with one just off the reserve on 22nd. Singles were also noted at Edgbaston Pool on March 3rd, Pedmore on April 5th and 8th, Walsall on 30th, Shirley on August 5th, Sandwell Valley on October 16th, Lutley Wedge between November 1st and 21st and Saltwells LNR on 16th.

Wood Lark Lullula arborea Resident until 1960s, then a rare visitor and now an uncommon, but increasing breeding species Warks A pair found feeding two newly fledged young at a private site during May 9th–19th was the first modern published breeding record for the county; observers’ names withheld. Worcs A male was noted singing at the 2006 nesting site on March 9th, 10th and 28th although there was no evidence of a successful outcome. Later in the year, four were discovered near Bittell Reservoirs on November 21st GCl, while two were discovered at Norchard on 26th MSo et al. and six were noted at the same locality from December 29th to 31st AWa et al. Staffs 32 pairs were located on Cannock Chase, well up from 19 in 2004 and 27 in 2002, but there were no reports from any other locations.

Sky Lark Alauda arvensis Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Territory counts included 18 in fields by the River Avon between Bidford and Marlcliff (cf. only eight in 2006), nine at Bulkington, 12 along Harbury Lane at Bishop’s Tachbrook, 14 near Kingsbury Oil Depot, 24 in 79 ha of arable at Lapworth, 12 at Lighthorne Quarry, 32 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot (cf. 31 in 2006), at least 30 in rough grassland around Salford Priors GP, 15 in set-aside at Wasperton (cf. 13 in 2005) and ten near Wootton Pool. The species appears to be doing well at present where farming methods allow, but on the negative side only 40 were logged at DMC Kineton in May compared to a recent peak there of 86 in 2005. During the late winter period flocks of 20-40 were fairly widespread, with larger flocks of 100 at Priors Hardwick on January 14th and 50 at Wootton Wawen on 20th. During the cold snap during early February there were counts of 70 at Salford Priors GP on 4th, 53 near Kenilworth on 6th, 52 at Wasperton on 7th and 300 feeding in snow at Birchmoor on 9th. Autumn passage had commenced by September 20th when 100 passed over near Bidford-on-Avon; and subsequent counts included 110 heading west at Knightcote in an hour on September 29th, 600 moving south at Salford Priors GP over two hours on 30th, and hourly counts of 190 south-west at Wormleighton Res on October 2nd and 300 south-west at Fenny Compton on 3rd. Visible migration appeared to be fairly light after about October 7th with the only notable count of 145 moving south- west at Salford Priors GP in two hours on 14th. Large feeding flocks during the last quarter were mainly reported from stubble fields, with some of the largest counts comprising 200

127 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th, 100 at Knightcote on November 10th, 110 in two flocks at Marlcliff on 29th, 105 by Ennister Wood (Ragley) on 30th, and 145 at Fenny Compton on December 13th. Worcs Breeding season records comprised singing birds at Bittell Reservoirs, Grimley, Hollybed Common, Holt, North Hill, Ryall Pits (10), Table Hill, Throckmorton (20) and Worcestershire Beacon, while up to 20 pairs bred on Bredon Hill and three pairs bred at Kinsham Lake. Notable counts outside the breeding season comprised 59 at Wick on February 8th, 20 over Bittell Reservoirs on September 30th, 50+ at Lenches crossroads and 100 on Bredon Hill on October 20th, 40+ at Abberton on 21st, 35 at Throckmorton on 28th, 30 at Lower Moor on 30th, 25 at Stoke Bliss on November 10th, 100 at South Littleton on December 1st and 120 at Wick on 29th. Staffs Wintering flocks recorded in January include 37 at Combridge, 50 at Cuckoo Bank, 26 at Denstone, 34 at Enson and 30 at both Keele University and Silverdale Colliery; February counts included 58 at Cotes Heath, 80 at Cuckoo Bank, 25 at Napley, 56 at Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank and 27 at Whitmore Bent Lane while March saw 40 at Blithfield, 35 at Cuckoo Bank, 105 at Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank and 30 at The Clive Farm. The first singing bird was noted at Whitmore Bent Lane on January 30th, then at many sites throughout the county with particular concentrations at Berry Hill, Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank, Cuckoo Bank (179 territories) and Shebdon. Autumn passage was very muted, birds seen flying south from September 26th (nine at Blithfield) until October 28th (seven at Weston Jones), these numbers were typical and the most being 12 south-west over Doxey and Weston Jones on October 7th and 12 over Little Stoke and Weston Jones on 27th. Winter concentrations commenced in late September with 29 at Cross Hayes and 100 at Cuckoo Bank; then in October 34 at Cotes Heath, 37 at Cross Hayes and 40 at Whitemoor Haye; November 35 at Hixon Airfield and 70 at Shebdon and December 90 at Napley and River Sow Meadows. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Aldridge, Coombeswood, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Goscote Valley, Knowle, Marsh Lane NR, Milburn Grange, Minworth STW, Mitton, Netherton Hill, Pedmore and Sandwell Valley, but no reports were received of any nesting. High counts included 30 birds at Foxcote on January 29th, 16 at Marsh Lane NR on February 24th and 15 on October 20th, 70 at Wishaw and 29 over Dunstall Park on October 11th, 12 in Blythe Valley on 14th and at least 50 at Fen End on November 2nd.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 21st (72) to October 11th (72) 8-year average: March 13th (–8 days) to October 10th (–1 day) Continuing the trend for early arrivals, the first was on the very early date of March 3rd at Upton Warren; the last being seen rather earlier than average on September 30th at Belvide and Salford Priors. Warks It was a poor breeding season, with just 25 pairs breeding at Salford Priors GP (cf. 185 here as recently as 2004), and a few pairs still present in quarry faces around and Lawford Heath. There was no information from the Ladywalk riverbank colony, but up to 30 there at the end of May suggests that nesting is still being attempted. The first spring migrants were singles at Draycote on March 8th and Ladywalk on 10th, followed on 11th by three at Salford Priors GP and singles at both Brandon and Northend. The main passage commenced on March 19th with 40 at Kingsbury and there were 100 at

128 Coton by the 21st. Subsequent maxima was on the low side with 160 at Coton on March 29th, 200 at Salford Priors GP on April 29th and a late peak of 200 at Brandon on May 27th the largest to be reported. Other waters such as Abbots Salford, Draycote, Earlswood, Kingsbury, Ladywalk and Shustoke had no more than 50-60 at peak times. Autumn passage was even worse with small numbers of up to 20 recorded at the main waters, largely during September. The only larger count was 60 moving south through Salford Priors GP on September 9th, while the very last report was of two at this site on 30th. Worcs The only notable breeding season record comprised 50 at Clifton Pits on June 17th. The first arrivals were three at Upton Warren on March 3rd, while two were at Kinsham Lake on 16th, five at Arrow Valley Lake on 19th, 40 at Bittell Reservoirs 13th, 70 at Lower Moor on 29th, 60+ at Bittell Reservoirs 30th, 110 at Grimley on 31st and 50 at Clifton Pits on April 9th. Smaller numbers also noted at Arrow Valley North and Hewell Grange. Five were at Kinsham Lake on September 20th, three at Bredon’s Hardwick on 25th and a few were still at Bittell Reservoirs on 26th. Staffs The first arrivals were early this year, at Blithfield on March 7th and Belvide on 8th. Double-figure counts occurred by 16th at both sites, and also at Ingestre. The major influx occurred late March, early April with 150 at Belvide on March 29th–30th and 100 on 31st, 200 at Blithfield on March 30th and 100 at Chasewater on 31st with 120 on April 3rd, but these numbers were generally lower than in 2006. In addition, 250 were counted at Belvide on April 23rd. Ten breeding colonies were located; the largest at Uttoxeter Quarry, held an impressive 126 active burrows on a large mound of quarried sand at the collection area and thanks go to the site staff for working around the birds until all chicks had fledged. Other working quarries with nests included Barton GP (c. 30 nests), Cannock Chase – Rugeley Quarry (20), Lordsley Quarry (four) and Newbold Quarry (numbers unknown). In addition, there were two colonies on the River Dove at Calwich Abbey (numbers and outcome unknown), Denstone Hall (12 nests flooded out on July 4th), Drayton Bassett Pits (five), Hulme End (12 nests in two colonies on River Manifold) and Huntley Quarry (c. 30 nests, most destroyed by trail bikers but 12 pairs raised young). At River Dove at Fauld, 60 birds were reported in early July as having been flooded out from their nests, so it is probable that additional nesting sites were used here too. Late season flocks were dismally low in number, the largest being just 35 at Chasewater on August 12th. The last birds of the year were at Aqualate on September 25th and Belvide on 30th. W Mid Birds bred local to Marsh Lane NR, where peak counts included 200 on May 4th and 150 on July 2nd. A total of 30 birds were noted at Fens Pools on May 15th. Passage birds were seen at Aldridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hasbury, Keresley, Lutley Wedge, Netherton Hill, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 31st (73) to November 5th (73). 8-year average: March 22nd (–9 days) to November 17th (+12 days). An exceptionally early bird was seen on March 4th at Coton with the main arrivals starting towards the end of March. The last bird was seen on the rather early date, by recent standards, of October 27th at Bittell Reservoirs. Warks A very early spring arrival was recorded, with single birds appearing during the exceptionally warm conditions of early March at Coton on 4th and Welford-on-Avon on 10th. The next was seen at Draycote on March 21st, with one-three birds noted at a number of sites on 29th–30th. Spring passage peaked during May, with maxima of 200 at

129 Earlswood Lakes on 4th, 300 at Shustoke on 13th and 300 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on 14th. Post-breeding flocks were again on the low side with maxima of 200 at Earlswood Lakes on July 13th and September 3rd, 200 at Fenny Compton on August 11th and 120 at Salford Priors GP on 12th. In September, 195 moved south at Salford Priors GP in two hours on 9th and 180 north-west at Lighthorne Quarry on 11th. On September 23rd, a total of 144 headed south at Morton Bagot; while on the same day an exceptional 3000 were estimated to have moved south at Salford Priors GP during 08.30-10.30hrs. Further movements included 300 south at Brandon and 250 south at Salford Priors GP on 30th, while on October 2nd 150 flew south-west at Wormleighton Res, 70 were at Fenny Compton and 36 flew east at Charlecote GP. The last flock was 100 at Radway on October 3rd, with stragglers at various sites until 10th. Final birds were at Bedworth Nook on October 13th and at both Brandon and Morton Bagot on 15th. Worcs The first records comprised singles at Bittell Reservoirs on March 30th and Arrow Valley Lake on 31st, the same day that two were at Grimley, while during April, two were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 3rd, one at Longdon Marsh on 9th, 30 at Bittell Reservoirs on 16th and 56 at Throckmorton Lagoons on May 14th. Post-breeding flocks were noted at Fladbury with 30 on July 28th and 150 were at Bredon’s Hardwick on August 19th, while late records comprised 16 at Throckmorton Lagoons on September 29th, five at Bittell Reservoir on October 3rd, ten at Grimley on 14th, two at Rowney Green on 25th and finally one at Bittell Reservoirs 27th. Staffs An early spring migrant passed through Blithfield on March 18th, followed by the next at Berry Hill on 28th after which a steady stream of single-figure groups at many sites, with the first double-figure count not until 12 at Belvide on April 12th and the treble- figure counts there of 100 on 23rd and 200 on May 11th. Westport was the only other site to report large counts with 100 on May 14th, 200 on 27th and 100 on 28th. The only three- figure breeding season count recorded this year was 150 on the River Sow Meadows on June 26th. Breeding was reported from 23 sites, along with many more summer sightings throughout the county. The only significant autumn accumulation was 800 at Blithfield on August 19th. Visible migration was first noted at Belvide on September 9th when 107 flew south, with numbers recorded regularly until October 8th. Higher counts heading south comprised 120/hour at Black Bank on September 13th, 200/hour on 20th, 200+ through Ingestre on 22nd, 147 at Sutton, 50 at Doxey, 50 at Weston Jones and 90/hour at Berry Hill on 23rd. In October, 45 south at Weston Jones on 1st and 30 at Ingestre on 3rd were the highest counts and the last birds of the year were 5 at Tittesworth on 15th, one at Belvide on 21st and one at Milton, Stoke on 25th. W Mid The only breeding records received were from Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and near to Marsh Lane NR. Peak counts included 40 at Fens Pools on May 15th, 30 at Marsh Lane NR on 28th and 152 birds on July 2nd, 75 over West Bromwich on August 16th, 68 over Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley on September 7th, 90 over Netherton Hill on 14th and 50 at Reedswood Park and 30 at Saltwells LNR on 23rd.

House Martin Delichon urbicum Common to very common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 6th (73) to November 2nd (73). 8-year average: March 24th (–13 days) to October 26th. Continuing the remarkable trend of early arrivals, the first was on March 21st at Ladywalk and the last at Chat Valley and Alrewas on October 21st.

130 Warks The only colony documented was situated on a small pump house at Draycote, which had 32 occupied nests, the same number as 2006. The first spring migrants were up to two at Ladywalk on March 21st–22nd and three at Brandon on 30th. The main arrival did not begin however until around April 12th, and many birds were very late at arriving back at nest sites – as late as early June at Morton Bagot. The largest flocks recorded on spring passage were 100 at Draycote on April 18th, 300 at Earlswood Lakes on May 4th, 100 at Coton on 8th and 100 at Wootton Pool and 250 at Earlswood on 13th. During a period of rain and cold northerly winds on May 28th, flocks of 300 congregated at Coton/Lea Marston Pools, 170 at Morton Bagot and 150 at Salford Priors GP. Post- breeding counts included 150 at Charlecote GP on July 27th and 130 on September 1st, 120 at Fenny Compton on August 11th, 500 at Earlswood Lakes early on September 3rd and 150 at Hams Hall on 16th. Subsequent large counts referred mainly to passage, with 600 moving slowly south down the Avon valley at Wasperton in an hour on September 22nd, 250 heading south at Salford Priors GP on 23rd, 200 at Ladywalk on 28th, 130 moving south at Salford Priors GP on 30th, 145 at Fenny Compton and 90 moving south- west at Wormleighton Res on October 2nd, and 100 at Radway on 3rd. Most had gone by October 5th, with the only later records involving one at Ladywalk on 13th and two at Wootton Wawen on 15th. Worcs The first two were at Little Comberton on April 14th, followed by one at Lower Moor on 16th, 20 on Worcestershire Beacon on 18th, two at Bittell Reservoirs 20th and three at Oakley Pool on 21st, while in May, 140 were at Kinsham Lake on 18th. Autumn records comprised 100+ at Kinsham Lake on August 18th, 120 at Rowney Green on September 7th, 250 at Bittell Reservoirs on 13th, 70 at Kinsham Lake on 14th, 40 at Elmley Castle on 30th, singles at Bittell Reservoirs on October 3rd and Little Comberton on 7th, six at British Camp on 7th and finally two in Chat Valley on 21st. Staffs As with recent years, spring migration was rather quiet, but covered the whole of April and May. The first was seen at Chasewater on April 3rd, the next at Baswich and Tixall on 6th. The higher counts came only from Belvide initially with 50 on 23rd, then 100 on 25th, 300 on May 4th and 200 on 11th. After this, high counts came from Westport with 200 on 13th, 100 on 14th, 500 on 27th and 300 on 28th, along with 250 at Chapel Chorlton on 28th and 100 at Chasewater on 29th. Breeding was noted at Aqualate (a few pairs), Doxey, Draycott-in-the-Clay, Drayton Bassett, Eland Lodge (six), Fauld Industrial Estate (five), Greenway Bank, Handsacre, Harpers Marsh, Hazelstrine (three), Ingestre (ten), Keele University (15), Lower Hatton, Park Farm Trysull (15), Pipe Green, Rushley (one), and Trentham Lakes. Three-figure concentrations in autumn were fewer than in previous years and presumably reflect poor productivity because of the bad summer weather. The higher counts in August were 80 at Westport on 14th, 20 at River Sow Meadows on 15th, 80 at Belvide and Doxey on 19th, 3–500 at Drayton Bassett Pits on 30th; and in September 150 at Belvide on 14th, 100 in the Churnet Valley on 16th and 300 at Belvide on 24th. The clearout of birds was virtually done by the end of September, earlier than last year, with the last stragglers being seen at Weston Jones on October 2nd, Loynton Moss on 3rd and Alrewas on 21st. W Mid Breeding records were received from near to Marsh Lane NR, Selly Oak, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park and Warstock (25 nests). Peak counts included 30 birds at Farndale throughout May, 25 at Fens Pools on 15th, 80 at Marsh Lane NR on 28th and 100 on August 16th, 75 at West Bromwich on 16th, 35 at Edgbaston Reservoir on 25th, 70 at Dunstall Park on 29th, 30 at Winson Green on September 5th, 95 over Netherton Hill on 14th and 35 at Blythe Valley CP on 19th.

131 Richardʼs Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae Very rare migrant (3/10). Worcs One at Grimley was heard and then seen as it arrived from the north-east on October 7th before departing just twenty minutes later BRS. This was the second county record.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Fairly common, though declining, summer resident and passage migrant, becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and western parts of the Region. Long-term average: April 8th (70) to 24 September (68). 8-year average: April 1st (- 7 days) to October 4th (+10 days). The first arrival was later than of recent years on April 8th at Highgate Common. The last was seen on September 22nd at Byrkley Park; much earlier than of late. Warks Spring passage involved singles mainly moving north, at Salford Priors GP on April 15th and 22nd, and at Wormleighton Res on April 17th, Morton Bagot on 21st and Kingsbury on 28th. Return passage likewise involved birds in flight, mainly moving south or south-east. The first was over Fenny Compton on August 24th, followed by singles over Nuneaton on September 5th and Warwick Racecourse on 6th, four over Morton Bagot and one through at Salford Priors GP on 9th, and one over Ladywalk on 16th. Worcs During the breeding season single males were noted singing on Bredon Hill, Devil’s Spittleful, Hangman’s Hill and Happy Valley, while up to seven singing males were noted in the Wyre Forest from April-June and at least eight were singing between British Camp and Midsummer Hill on May 6th. Single presumed migrants were noted at Rous Lench on April 15th (a singing male) and at Abberton on 19th. In July, one was at Thirds Land on 8th, while one was noted on Bredon Hill on September 12th. Staffs The first birds were recorded at Highgate Common on April 8th (six days later than last year), Hanchurch Woods on 12th and Kinver Edge and Cannock Chase – Seven Springs on 15th. The only migrants away from breeding sites were at Berry Hill on April 21st and Eland Lodge on 22nd. Sites holding birds in the breeding season were Alstonefield (two+), Cannock Chase (98 territories), Gun Hill (one), Hanchurch Woods (seven), Hawks - moor (one), Kinver Edge (one), Lum Edge (one), Revidge (one), Swallow Moss (one) and Swineholes Woods (one). Return passage commenced at Keele University on August 16th, then Milton Stoke (two) on August 19th and one on 20th, Berry Hill and Sherbrook Valley on 26th, Black Bank 27th, Keele University and Knypersley Reservoir on September 1st, Cannock 4th, Blithfield 13th, Black Bank 18th and finally Byrkley Park on 22nd. W Mid “Several birds” were noted in Sutton Park in mid-May. Single birds were seen at Clayhanger on September 1st, Sandwell Valley on 3rd, Dunstall Park on 4th and Marsh Lane NR on 12th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage, fairly common in winter. Warks Breeding pairs were reported at: Baginton Airport (several), Birchmoor, Fenny Compton, Lighthorne Quarry (18-20), Salford Priors GP (two) and Warwick Racecourse. Other breeding season records, many of singing males, came from: Bedworth Nook, Coombe Abbey, Cubbington, Dordon, Dosthill, Draycote, Farnborough, Henley GC, Ilmington Downs, Maxstoke, Pooley Fields NR and Wormleighton Res. There were none at Brandon this year, where breeding has apparently ceased. There was one exceptional late

132 winter concentration, of 108 at Priors Hardwick on January 14th; but otherwise the best counts were typically around 20-35, with these reports coming from Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill GP, Fenny Compton, Salford Priors GP and Wasperton. Spring passage was lighter than usual, with maxima of only 53 at Salford Priors GP on March 11th, 70 at Draycote on 22nd, 33 at Fenny Compton on April 2nd and 50 at Abbots Salford on 3rd. Post-breeding dispersal began very early, with a trickle throughout August from 5th. In the main visible migration remained fairly moderate throughout the autumn with large movements noted on only a few dates. Specific counts of migrants moving largely south or south-west, included 33 at Fenny Compton on September 15th, 30 at Ladywalk on 19th, 200 near Bidford-on- Avon on 20th, 35 at Morton Bagot and 120 at Salford Priors GP on 23rd, 600 at the latter site (over two hours) on 30th and 35 at Bearley on the same date, 41 (east) at Charlecote GP on October 2nd and 220 at Salford Priors GP on 14th. Grounded passage flocks of around 40-50 were additionally reported at a number of sites during the autumn, with the highest counts of 185 at Wasperton on September 22nd, 100 at Kineton on October 6th, 120 at Salford Priors GP on 7th, and with 165 on 21st and 75 on November 4th at the same site. The best early winter flocks were 40 at Salford Priors GP on December 2nd, 40 at Shustoke on 18th and 50 at DMC Kineton on 30th. Worcs Ten nesting pairs on Bredon Hill and two in song on Hill on June 13th were the only breeding season records. Eleven and six were noted at Castlemorton Common on January 20th and February 11th respectively and 40 at Bittell Reservoirs on March 14th. Later in the year counts of 50 were made at both Lower Moor and Stoke Bliss on September 28th, while counts in October comprised 60 at Lower Moor on 2nd, 60 on Bredon Hill on 5th, 25 at Throckmorton on 6th, 20+ on North Hill on 14th and 15 at Throckmorton Tip on 28th, while in December 30 were at Abberton on 9th. Staffs This very common bird was seen throughout the year across the county. Early season flocks were well down on previous years, the largest being a meagre 32 at Denstone on January 23rd and 31 at Cotes Heath on February 24th. Spring passage was noted from late March when 200 gathered at Belvide on 29th–30th, but nowhere else. Breeding was recorded throughout the North Staffordshire moorland, along with Berry Hill (six-seven pairs), Biddulph Valley (one-two), Black Bank (five), Blake Low (four), Blithfield (ten), Brown Lees (five), Cannock Chase, Clay Mills STW (two), The Cloud (three), Crossplains (one), Cuckoo Bank, Doxey Marshes (two), Gentleshaw Common (nine-12), Mow Cop (two), Silverdale Colliery (15) and Wetley Moor (12). Autumn passage commenced early in September with flocks of 40-60 birds at Whitmore Bent Lane on 8th, Crossplains on 12th, Byrkley Park and Revidge on 15th, Cuckoo Bank 27th–30th and Berry Hill on 28th. In October there were 80 at Stableford on 10th–12th, 60 at Weaver Hills on 10th, 63 at Blithfield on 12th and 60 at Woodhead on 28th. Visible migration at Black Bank commenced in September with 40 on 13th, 100 on 18th, 100 on 26th, 56 on 30th, 160 on October 2nd, 76 on 4th, 90 on 5th, 58 on 16th, 120 on 18th, 50 on 19th and finally four on 26th – all hourly rates of passage. Elsewhere there were 41 over Belvide on September 9th and 17 over Westport on 16th. As migrants passed on, flock sizes dwindled from late October, the best in November being 24 at Belvide on 9th, 88 at Doxey on 11th and 50 at Acton on 19th. In December, 22 at Blithfield on 22nd, 22 at Belvide on 23rd, 30 at Stableford on 27th and 39 by Hanchurch Woods on 30th. W Mid Birds were seen in the breeding season at Foxcote, Pedmore and Sutton Park. High counts during spring passage included 66 at Lutley Wedge on March 27th and 54 on April 4th, 29 at Dunstall Park on April 3rd and 32 in Smestow Valley on 5th. Autumn counts included 31 at West Bromwich on September 18th, 30 at Netherton Hill on 22nd,

133 26 at Dunstall Park on 26th and 100 in rape stubble near Marsh Lane NR on 29th. The only sizeable winter total was 40 at Pedmore on December 15th. Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks The only spring mig - rant was at Draycote on March 10th. Autumn passage here involved two on October 2nd, singles on 4th, 12th, 15th and from 19th–23rd, three on 24th and two on 25th. As always with this site it is not clear how many birds were involved as they can be easily missed between sight - ings along the long stretches of shoreline. Other records during this period were of singles at Rock Pipit, Draycote, Steve Valentine Charlecote GP on October 23rd (a site first) and Salford Priors GP on November 4th. The year ended with a bird at Draycote on December 29th. Worcs One noted at Bittell Reservoirs on October 3rd was followed by another three there on 7th. An excellent series of records at Grimley commenced with one on 6th, at least three birds on 11th, one was present intermittently from 12th–15th and finally one on 20th. Staffs Just one spring bird was seen at Blithfield on March 25th, all the rest occurring in October: singles at Blithfield and Drayton Bassett Pits on 1st, Belvide 5th, Blithfield 8th–10th, Belvide 9th, two at Belvide and Blithfield and one at Doxey on 14th, just one remaining the following day at Belvide, two at Belvide on 20th, one of which stayed until 21st and finally one at Blithfield on 28th. W Mid In October, two were in Sandwell Valley on 3rd and a probable flew over Marsh Lane NR, calling, on 21st. Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis Rare passage migrant (7/10) Warks A bird in breeding plumage was at Draycote on March 22nd JJB. Unusually this bird actually sang briefly from the top of a small birch, probably encouraged by several migrant Meadow Pipits which also gave snatches of song. 2005 Addendum Warks Two at Shustoke on October 4th BLK et al., were confirmed as this subspecies by a photograph. Rock/Water Pipit W Mid One was recorded in poor conditions at Clayhanger on October 26th. Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: October 26th (17) to April 17th (17). 8-year average: October 19th (–7 days) to April 17th (=). The first was at Doxey on October 14th and the first; three at Whitemoor Haye on April 1st.

134 Warks Three autumn migrants were reported, with singles at Draycote on October 21st DCo, RCM, Salford Priors GP on 21st and 28th JJB, and in the Fisher’s Mill GP/Dosthill Lake area on November 15th JHa. Worcs An elusive bird at Grimley from November 9th remained until the year’s end BRS et al. Staffs In the first winter period, an elusive bird was occasionally seen at Doxey between January 21st and March 18th PDy, MDBo, another at Blithfield between February 7th and March 21st RCB et al. and three summer-plumaged birds at Whitemoor Haye on April 1st BWS. In the second winter period there was one at Doxey on October 14th, with two from November 11th–December 9th and at least one remaining until the year end MDBo. At Belvide, one on October 25th and at Blithfield, two on November 4th–18th PDH, MPR and one on December 10th–15th GJM.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Fairly common, but declining, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 3rd (71) to October 12th (71). 8-year average: March 30th (–4 days) to October 12th (=) Arrival and departure dates have varied little from the average. The first was seen on April 2nd at Kinsham while the last was noted on October 13th at Bittell Reservoirs. Warks A very poor year was apparent in this wagtail’s Feldon heartland, with only 11 breeding pairs located at Fenny Compton (cf. 27 in 2006). The few records from elsewhere in the south and east show greatly reduced numbers or even absence from regular sites, although some known strongholds were not visited. In the north and north-east of the county breeding records included seven pairs at Bramcote Hall (a good year there), three at Over Whitacre and single pairs at Birchmoor, Middleton, Wishaw and Withybrook. Spring migrants were late in arriving with the first at Abbots Salford on April 10th and Draycote on 12th (two), with most arriving from the 14th. Spring passage was everywhere poor, with the largest counts of eight at Wishaw on April 22nd, 14 at Draycote on 28th and 12 there on 29th. Post-breeding counts were also very poor with notably few juveniles involved. Draycote had the worst season ever with maxima of just nine in August and five in September. Other counts included 16 at Salford Priors GP on August 12th, 12 flying west at Fenny Compton and seven at Lighthorne Quarry on September 1st, 11 moving south at Salford Priors GP on 2nd, and the year’s highest count of 23 at Toft Farm Lakes on 5th. The last record of the year was of two at the latter locality on October 8th. A bird resembling a Citrine Wagtail at Coleshill GP on May 10th was thought to be a mutant. Worcs The first bird of the year arrived at Kinsham Lake on April 2nd, with another there on 23rd and further records comprised one at Grimley on 11th and 21st and 14 on 22nd, singles at Upton Warren on 12th, 15th and 22nd, two at Ryall Pits on 21st, two at Lower Moor on 28th and one on 29th. During May, singles were at Upton Warren on 1st and 5th, two at Clifton Pits and one near Ryall Pits on 2nd, two at Grimley on 5th and 11th, three at Ryall Pits on 6th and two at Clifton Pits on 15th, whilst in June one was at Clifton Pits on 17th, one at Ryall Pits on 10th and 20 at Honeybourne Airfield on 29th, were still present on July 10th, rising to 22 on 12th and then eight on 18th, while two were at Lower Moor on 24th and three there on 27th. During August one was at Little Comberton on 4th, ten were at Lower Moor on 5th, with three there on 11th, 13 on 12th and 15th and one on 31st. Further August records comprised one at Bittell Reservoirs on 6th, six at Clifton Pits on 19th and one at Ryall Pits on 26th and in September singles were at Holt on 1st, 4th, 17th, three on 8th and two on 9th, while two were at Little Comberton on 1st and one on

135 8th, nine were at Clifton Pits on 2nd followed by 11 on 25th and five on 26th and singles were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 7th, Upton Warren on 17th and 19th and Longdon Marsh on 20th. Finally, one was noted at Bittell Reservoirs on October 13th. Staffs The first bird was seen at Blithfield on April 10th, six days later than last year, then at Blithfield, The Clive Farm, Drayton Bassett Pits and Ingestre on 13th. Early season peaks at Blithfield were much lower than last year, no more than ten on 22nd and 25th and 13 at Crossplains on May 23rd the only other double-figure count. A grey-backed bird with a harsh tzeee call, at Belvide on May 4th–5th, was thought to be a hybrid eastern-race bird SNu. Breeding was confirmed at Denstone (one pair with young), Uttoxeter Quarry (three pairs, two confirmed with four young) and Whitemoor Haye (two pairs, three young), along with territories at Coldmeece (one-two), Cuckoo Bank (one) Drayton Bassett Pits (one), Ingestre (one), Lordsley GP (one), Lower Hatton (two), Packington Moor east (one), Stableford (three-four), Sturbridge (two), Tixall (one) and Whitmore Bent Lane (one failed due to disturbance). This total of 21-23 pairs reflect a very poor year, and is disappointingly half last year’s 35-42 pairs. There were summer sightings at a further eight sites, as in 2006. Late season, double-figure counts comprised 13 at Doxey on August 5th, 15 at Blithfield on 24th, 12 there on 26th, 24 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 27th, 25 at Blithfield on September 4th and 22 there on 7th. The last birds were seen at Blithfield on September 21st and Branston GP (two) on 22nd. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, one or two birds were noted on 15 dates from April 10th into June and on July 15th and September 23rd. Single birds were noted in Goscote Valley on April 18th, Sandwell Valley on April 21st and in May, and Dunstall Park on April 27th, May 6th, July 7th and September 18th.

Blue-headed x Yellow Wagtail “Channel Wagtail” Warks A male was at Chesterton on May 14th ARD. A female-type Blue-headed Wagtail reported from Wishaw on April 22nd was not described and may also have been a hybrid. Staffs Males were seen at Belvide on April 17th SNu and Ingestre on 27th RCB.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Baddesley Clinton, Barford, Broom-Salford Priors (two along River Arrow), Combrook, Coombe Abbey, Draycote, Earlswood, Edstone, Fenny Compton, Great Alne, Haselor, Ladywalk, Middleton, Napton, Offchurch Bury, Packington (two), Salford Priors GP and Wolfhampcote. Further breeding season records, many of which consisted of pairs at known breeding sites, came from: Abbots Salford, Baginton, Brandon, Chessetts Wood, Coton, Hatton, Kingsbury, Nuneaton, Ratley, Seeswood, Shustoke, Stoneleigh, Warwick and Wormleighton Res. On passage the largest count was a peak of ten at Salford Priors GP on October 28th, while also of interest was a total of six watched going to roost at dusk under exposed tree roots overhanging a pool in Farnborough Park on 30th. Worcs Pairs were noted during the breeding season at Bittell Reservoirs, Corn Brook, Dowles Brook, Fladbury, Gwen Finch Wetland, Heightington Brook, Kemerton village, Lower Moor, Park Brook (Wyre Forest), Sapey Brook and Shelsley. Further records comprised eight in the Wyre Forest on March on 26th, singles at Kinsham Lake on May 13th, Throckmorton Lagoons on July 15th, Longdon Marsh on August 20th, Upton Warren on October 19th, while three were at Stoke Bliss in October and November. Additional

136 November records comprised two at Kinsham Lake and two at Throckmorton Lagoons, while in December singles were on the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe, Hollybed Common, Pickersleigh Road (Malvern) and Worcester. Staffs This bird was seen frequently in every month of the year in low numbers, the most being eight at Tittesworth on April 1st and seven at Uttoxeter Quarry on August 29th. Breeding was recorded or suspected at Alstonefield, Baddeley Green, Baggeridge CP, Blake Brook, Brancote, Cannock Chase (six), Clay Mills STW, Coombes Valley, Denstone, Dimmingsdale, Gradbach, Greenway Bank CP, Hanley Park, Harpers Marsh, Horton, Ilam (three pairs), Ingestre, Keele University, Knotbury, Madeley STW (two pairs), Middle Mayfield, Milldale, Oakamoor, Okeover Mill, Orchard Common, Park Banks, Pethills, Ranton, River Sow Meadows, Stanley Pool, Thorncliffe, Three Shires Head (two pairs), Tittesworth Reservoir, Tixall Bridge, Turn Edge, Westport Lake (two pairs), Wettonmill, Whitmore, Wolseley Bridge and Wyrley Common. W Mid Birds were noted during the breeding season at Baddesley Clinton, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Marsh Lane NR, Minworth STW, Netherton Reservoir, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Titford Pools, West Bromwich and Wren’s Nest, but no reports were received of any success. Individuals were also seen at Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge, Fens Pools, Grand Union Canal (between Olton and Catherine-de-Barnes), Hawne Park, Knowle Canal, Lutley Wedge, Olton Mere, Reedswood Park, Smethwick Hall Park, Walsall Arboretum, Whitley, Windsor Fields, Winson Green and Wordsley.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The only large roost documented was the traditional one at the Shires Retail Park, Leamington Spa, where there was an exceptionally high count of at least 1500 on October 1st SEAP. A much smaller roost at Hams Hall peaked at 150 in October and 100 in November. Counts of feeding flocks during the year included 45 at Alcester STW on January 21st, 70 feeding in a turnip field at Wasperton on 31st, 50 at Draycote on March 22nd, 164 counted in ploughed set-aside at Wasperton on October 2nd (which may have been using the Leamington Spa roost) and 45 in a field at Haseley on 22nd. Post-breeding flocks at Fenny Compton again showed a reduction in size, with not more than 25 seen compared to the usual peak of around 50-100. Worcs No breeding date was received but roost counts comprised 100+ at Clifton Pits on August 19th and at Abberton Mill, 80+ were present on September 22nd, 70+ on 26th and 60+ on October 15th, while 20 were at Bittell Reservoirs on November 22nd. Staffs Winter roosts were noted at Stone Business Park with 100 on February 18th and M6 Stafford Services with 140 on March 23rd, but none in the second winter period. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide (two pairs), Blithfield (two-three), Chasewater, The Cloud, Doxey (five), Drayton Bassett Pits, Ingestre, Ranton, Tittesworth, Uttoxeter and Uttoxeter Quarry. Significant flock counts in the first winter period came from Blithfield (180), Doxey (30), Ingestre (69), Stockley Vale (35) and Winnington (35); post-breeding accumulations in August-September were at Barton GP (40), Byrkley Park (112), Chase- water (36), Keele University (124), Tittesworth (38), Uttoxeter Quarry (50) and Westport (32). Southward visible migration was observed at Black Bank between October 4th and November 1st, peaking at 30 in an hour on October 19th, otherwise typically at 10-20 birds per hour. In the second winter period, the larger flocks were at Blithfield (45), Lordsley GP (120), River Sow Meadows (50), Scotch Hill (37), Stableford (30) and Tittesworth (38).

137 W Mid Pairs bred successfully at Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley, and birds were also noted in the breeding season at Baddesley Clinton, Coundon Wedge, Dudley Wood, Edgbaston Reservoir, Minworth STW, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, West Bromwich, Whitley and Wightwick. A notable 156 birds flew over Smestow Valley early on January 1st, presumably having left their roost in Wolverhampton city centre, where a minimum 50 were counted on October 13th. About 100 landed on the Birmingham NIA building before heading towards the Jewellery Quarter late on October 12th. Other high counts included 40 birds at Marsh Lane NR on March 15th and 19 on October 23rd and November 11th, 21 at Minworth STW on September 12th and 40 at Aldridge cricket field on 21st.

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A moderate spring passage began with a pair on flooded pasture at Fenny Compton on March 3rd JJB, the earliest county date by three days. Singles then followed at Charlecote GP on March 20th and at Draycote on 22nd, 30th and April 1st. Further singles were at Alvecote on April 2nd, Wishaw on 4th and Draycote again on 12th, followed by four at Kingsbury on 19th, one at Brandon on 21st, three at Wishaw and one at Morton Bagot on 22nd, one at Bramcote Hall from 22nd–24th, and with the last at Draycote on 25th. A good autumn passage commenced with singles at Brandon on August 28th and Charlecote GP on 29th. Single first-winters were then at Toft Farm Lakes on September 5th and Fenny Compton on 7th, with three at Salford Priors GP on 9th. A pair was at Charlecote GP on September 22nd and two first-winters at Salford Priors GP on 23rd. The last record was of an adult at Fenny Compton on October 13th. Worcs Singles were noted at Barnett Brook on March 20th and Upton Warren on 21st and in April, Grimley held four on 11th, three on 13th and 16th, one on 19th, two on 20th, one on 21st and ten on 22nd, while one was at Upton Warren on 14th, two were at Clifton Pits on 21st, two at Lower Moor on 29th and a female was noted at the latter site on 30th and May 1st and finally one at Bittell Reservoirs on 11th. Staffs An appalling year, with just two small influxes in mid-March and early April plus a few stragglers later on. First to arrive were two at Doxey on March 18th, one staying until 21st and two at Blithfield on 19th. In April, one at Light Oaks on 8th preceded singles at Doxey and Tixall and two at Blithfield on 10th, then two at Drayton Bassett Pits on 13th and one at Tittesworth on 17th. Later birds comprised singles at Drayton Bassett Pits on 29th, Stableford on May 9th (perhaps the same bird of 2005 and 2006 but it didn’t stay) and Barton GP on 12th. There were no autumn sightings. W Mid One bird was seen at Marsh Lane NR on 30th March, with probably the same male from April 8th–16th. At Dunstall Park, a male was present on March 16th and a male was seen on April 7th.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Erratic, and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally numerous in invasion years (9/10). Worcs One in a Redditch garden on December 1st and 2nd TKe was the only record.

2006 Addendum W Mid 40 were noted at Great Barr during March, the last one being seen on April 6th, with 18 at Park Hall (Walsall) and ten near Barr Beacon also in March PMH.

138 Dipper Cinclus cinclus Frequent resident in north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Rare elsewhere. Worcs Noted throughout the year in the Wyre Forest along Dowles Brook. Records from the far west of the county comprised one in song at Corn Brook on March 13th and a juvenile was noted along Sapey Brook at Lower Sapey on May 23rd. A single bird was reported along the River Salwarpe at Upton Warren on October 20th. Staffs There were 62 records for Dipper this year, double last year’s, at 23 sites on the streams and rivers of the North Staffs Moors and one at Knypersley Reservoir on October 22nd. Breeding was confirmed or suspected at Alstonefield, Bearda, Beresford Dale, Blake Brook, Danebridge (one or two pairs), Dovedale (c. five pairs), Gradbach, Ilam, Milldale, Norbury, Okeover Mill, Tittesworth, Wettonmill and Wolfscote Dale (two-three pairs). Other sites included Calwich Abbey, Consall CP, Coombes Valley, Cotton Dell, Harpers Gate, Lower Ellastone and Three Shires Head.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Warks Breeding territory counts included at least 22 at Brandon (where it had a good breeding season), 36 in 72 ha of Kingsbury/Edge Hill Woods, 35 in 79 ha of arable at Lapworth, 39 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot, and 18 in 40 ha at Oldberrow. The total of 116 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the highest during 20 years of counts here. Other more casual counts included 31 at Kingsbury WP on May 16th, 29 at Shustoke on June 12th, 18 along the Grand Union Canal at Chessetts Wood on 20th, 22 at Spernall Park on November 4th, 16 at Copt Green on December 16th and 15 in Hampton Wood on 18th. Most counts indicate a fairly stable population. Worcs Very few records received with the only notable count being 14 singing at Bittell Reservoirs on March 23rd. Staffs 30+ territories were logged at Belvide, 25 at Berry Hill and 55 at Doxey (70 in 2006, 58 in 2005). Larger flocks from elsewhere comprised 20 at The Clive Farm in March through April and 18 at Hanchurch Woods in December. W Mid An impressive 104 territories were recorded in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to just 12 in the last census in 1983. On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 61 territories were recorded (the second highest total since monitoring began in 1992), compared to 41 last year and the average of 48 over the last 16 years. An estimated 20 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to about eleven last year. Highs of 26 birds were counted in Coundon Wedge on May 5th and 30 in Sandwell Valley on 24th.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Warks Census work produced 11 territories on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth, 40 in 120 ha of mixed farmland at Morton Bagot, and 13 in 40 ha of Dunnock, Brandon, Steve Valentine

139 pasture at Oldberrow. 45 at DMC Kineton in May was the equal highest count (with 2003) in 20 years of monitoring. Outside the breeding season other counts included 16 at Brandon on March 2nd and 18 at Whitacre Heath NR on December 31st. Worcs No records received. Staffs 30-40 pairs bred at Belvide and 21 at Doxey. Elsewhere, 20 at The Clive Farm in March and April was the highest count. W Mid At least 17 males were noted singing at Marsh Lane NR, compared to 12 last year. The population on the Mons Hill CBC plot remained stable, with 14 territories noted, the same as last year, and very comparable to the average of 13 over the last 16 years. A CBC of Saltwells Wood revealed 13 territories, compared to five in the last census in 1983.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks Territory counts included 17 in the reserve area at Brandon, 42 in 72 ha of Kingsbury/Edge Hill Woods (cf. 36 in 2005) and 20 on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth. Numbers were very stable at Morton Bagot with 19 on 120 ha and Oldberrow with 17 on 40 ha, both similar to the last two seasons. The total of 90 counted at DMC Kineton in May was the third highest since 1987. Other more casual counts included 21 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on January 5th, 20 at Kingsbury WP on May 16th, 31 at Brandon on October 2nd, 23 at Earlswood Lakes on 12th and 24 at Spernall Park on November 4th. Fledged young were observed at Brandon on the early date of April 1st. Worcs Very few records received with the only notable count being 17 singing at Bittell Reservoirs on March 23rd. Staffs 25 pairs bred at Belvide and 30 at Doxey. The largest count of 22 was at Weston Jones – Kemsey Manor on October 7th. W Mid An excellent 105 territories were recorded in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to only 15 in the last census in 1983. On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 46 territories were recorded, the second highest total since monitoring began in 1992, compared to 37 last year and the average of 37 over the last 16 years. An estimated 17 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to 13 last year. In Coundon Wedge, a maximum of 40 birds were counted during late summer, compared to highs of 48 in the same period last year and 49 in 2005. Ten to 13 birds were noted at Blythe Valley CP on February 19th, Walsall Arboretum on March 27th, Penn on October 5th and November 15th, Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve on October 22nd, Cotwall End Valley on November 10th and Cornets End on December 26th.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident, increasingly confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Long-term average: April 22nd (72) to 28th July (23). 8-year average: April 23rd (+1 day) to July 15th (–13 days) First noted at Strensham on April 26th. No records of lingering birds. Warks Four singing males were located at two sites at DMC Kineton between April 29th and May 20th PDo et al. Transient singing males were found at Abbots Salford on May 3rd–5th BGP and at Brandon from May 4th–11th BMCG, with the latter being the first on the reserve for ten years. Worcs Singing males were noted at Strensham Pool on April 26th, Ashmoor Common on 27th, Malvern Link from 27th–May 6th, Harvington from 3rd–6th, two at Strensham Pool on 5th and 6th, Castlemorton Common from 6th–20th and Ripple on 7th.

140 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks There was just one record, a first-summer male at Fenny Compton on March 12th JJB. Worcs The bird discovered at Holt in December 2007 remained until the first week of January many observers and an elusive male was present in Worcester City Centre from April 17th– 19th RBan et al. Two birds were noted in October, with one at British Camp from 4th–7th AJP et al. and one at Kempsey Common from 16th–19th MAS et al. Staffs Last year’s first winter male at Blithfield remained until Black Redstart, Blithfield, Steve Seal January 5th. A female was seen at Cuckoo Bank on March 23rd–26th BWS and a first-winter/female bird lingered at Blithfield from December 13th until the year’s end PDH. W Mid Male birds were noted in the Birmingham area at Hockley on April 28th PBa, St. Paul’s on 30th PBa, Bordesley on May 2nd TKe and near the BT Tower on 24th per SBo.

2006 Addendum W Mid Single males were present in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, on May 5th and 7th, and at Eastside on 24th per SBo.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common, though localised and much decreased, summer resident in Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Long-term average: April 10th (71) to September 28th (70). 8-year average: April 4th (–6 days) to September 30th (+2 days). Arrived later than recently; the first being seen on April 11th at Bidford-on-Avon and the last on the very late date of October 29th at Upton Warren. Warks No breeding reported, but a singing male at favoured Meon Hill on several dates between April 17th and June 8th may have been doing so. Otherwise spring records began with single males by the river at Bidford-on-Avon on April 11th and at DMC Kineton on 15th. On April 22nd there were males at both Brandon and Morton Bagot, with a female at Long Compton, while a male stayed at Draycote from 24th–28th. Post-breeding birds began to return from the second week in July. Once again Alvecote had the best series of records at this season, with one or two on many dates during July 10th–September 1st, with a peak of three on July 16th, 27th and August 8th. Other early records included single males at Morton Bagot from July 11th–28th and at Fenny Compton on August 7th. Subsequent reports comprised singles at Whitacre Heath NR on August 17th and Morton Bagot on 19th, one trapped at Brandon and two seen at Draycote on 24th, and then singles at Priors Hardwick on September 5th and 8th, Wasperton on 12th, Fenny Compton on 15th

141 and 18th, Swift Valley CP on 17th, and Wormleighton Res on 20th, with a final male at this site on October 2nd. Worcs Noted during the breeding season on a regular basis in the Wyre Forest (up to five singing males noted in April) along Dowles Brook and Park Brook. On Bredon Hill, three singing males were on territory on April 14th, rising to nine singing males during May, while six pairs were thought have bred, with four juveniles being seen in August, while ten were noted on the Malvern Hills between British Camp and Midsummer Hill on May 6th. Elsewhere, three males were in the North Hill area on April 20th, singing males were noted at Oxford on May 10th, Stoke Bliss on 24th and Hanley Childe on June 5th. Post breeding dispersal often brings small numbers to Lower Moor and around ten individuals were noted in the period July 3rd–August 31st, peaking at three on July 5th, while a pair was at Ryall Pits on 14th and a juvenile was noted there on 29th and three were on North Hill on 22nd. August brought singles to North Hill on 23rd and Shenstone on 27th, while a flurry of records in September comprised singles at Castlemorton Common on 2nd and Bredon Hill on 5th, with two at the latter site on 17th and 22nd and singles were at North Hill on Redstart, Wasperton, Alan Dean 22nd, Upton Warren on 29th and Abberton on 22nd, 29th and October 3rd. Two very late individuals were reported in a Redditch garden on October 25th and Upton Warren on 29th. Staffs Starting with a bird at Hanchurch Woods on April 14th, arrivals at breeding sites quickly followed at six locations the following day. Non-breeding sites holding April migrants were Berry Hill (17th, 21st), Silverdale Colliery (17th, 26th), Barton GP (22nd) and Blithfield (27th, 29th). Very late migrants appeared at Belvide on May 14th and River Dove at Fauld on 15th. Breeding was widespread, especially on the North Staffs Moors and was particularly encouraging despite the poor weather – many of the sites reporting fledged young. Cannock Chase also held larger numbers (29 territories) than the previous survey in 2002 (17) and is back in line with numbers recorded in 1987-1997. In detail at Alstonefield (13 birds mid June), Blore, Butterton Moor, Calton, Cannock Chase (29 territories), Churnet Valley (six), Cliff Park/Rudyard, Consall CP, Coombes Valley (two), Cotton, Cross Hayes, Crumpwood, Dimmingsdale (two), Dovedale, Fleet Green, Ford (four), Ford Grange (two), Gradbach, Grindon Moor (two), Gun, Hall Dale, Hanchurch Woods, Hawksmoor, Hazelton Clump, Highgate Common, Hole Valley, Horton, Hulme End, Ilam, Lower Elkstone, Manifold Valley, Milldale (two), Mixon Hay, Musden Wood, Nield Bank Farm, Oakamoor, Old Mixon Hay, Onecote, Onecote Moor (seven), Pethills, Revidge, Rushley, Stanton Dale, Thorncliffe, Tittesworth, Turn Edge, Waterfall (four) and Wettonmill. The first bird on return passage was at Sandon on July 19th. Blithfield produced a good run of sightings with a male on 2nd, singles on 10th and 12th, two on 15th, one on 17th, three on 19th, a male on 21st, one on 24th, 29th–30th, a male on September 2nd–5th and finally one on 9th. Whether these birds were long-stayers or not is unclear. Elsewhere, an immature male was seen at Doxey on August 5th, one at Harpers

142 Gate on 7th, an immature at Doxey on 16th, two at Newchurch on 24th, an immature male at Doxey on 26th–27th, singles at Doxey and Wetley moor on September 16th and the final bird at Berry Hill on 22nd–23rd. W Mid Single birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on April 18th, August 19th and September 3rd, Dunstall Park on 4th and Sutton Park on 14th.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon or frequent, but much declined, summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Long-term average: April 24th (71) to October 9th (67). 8-year average: April 17th (–7 days) to October 19th (+10 days). Arrivals were later with the first on April 21st at Four Ashes and Gailey followed by widespread records the next day. The last, apart from an injured bird that lingered at Lower Elkstone until November 2nd, was on the rather early date of September 30th at Uttoxeter Quarry. Warks Quite possibly it was the worst year on record for this once fairly common breeding species, with just nine recorded in spring and ten in autumn. The first reports came on April 22nd, when singles appeared at Brandon, Morton Bagot and Wishaw. Two more were found at Baginton Airfield and Lighthorne Quarry on April 24th, followed by singles at Birchmoor on May 4th and Morton Bagot on 5th, with two at Wishaw on 14th. On return passage Birchmoor had a female on July 18th and a male on 21st, followed by singles at Priors Hardwick on August 5th and Wasperton on 12th, with two at the latter site on 20th. Finally, September produced singles at Warwick Racecourse on 6th, Bramcote Hall on 7th, Priors Hardwick on 8th and Birchmoor on 15th. Worcs The first spring arrivals were noted at Ryall Pits and Upton Warren on April 22nd and were followed by two at Hollybed Common on 25th, plus Whinchat, Ryall Pits, Andy Warr singles at Shenstone on 26th and Rushock on 28th, while during May two were at Upton Warren on 1st, with singles there on 4th, 6th and 7th, while further singles were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 6th and Holt and Shenstone on 14th. Return passage brought singles to Lower Moor on July 5th, Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th, Ryall Pits on 21st, Gwen Finch Wetland on August 10th and 22nd, while at Grimley there was a good series of records, with one on 11th, two on 13th and 16th, three on 21st, two on 25th and one on 30th, while two were at Abberton from 16th–18th, two at Throckmorton on 17th and 25th, one at Gwen Finch Wetland on 22nd and one was at Shenstone on 28th. Two were at both Holt and Gwen Finch Wetland on September 4th, with one at the latter site from 5th–14th and two there on 22nd, one at Clifton Pits, one at Frankley and two at Throckmorton on 9th, two at Bittell Reservoirs and

143 three at Clifton Pits on the 15th, singles at Gwen Finch Wetland on 22nd and Clifton Pits on 23rd, two at Grimley on 25th and finally one again at Grimley on 29th. Staffs For the second year running, no breeding birds were observed, so it must be assumed that this attractive bird is no longer breeding in the county. Spring passage occurred in three distinct periods: April 21st– 27th, May 2nd– 4th and May 14th–19th. On April 21st, the first arrivals were seen at Four Ashes and Gailey, then ones or twos at Belvide, Berry Hill, Keele, Uttoxeter Quarry and Whitemoor Haye between 22nd and 24th. On 25th, a major influx was noted with birds at Berry Hill (eight), Black Bank (four), Drayton Bassett Pits (three), Tixall and Woodhead, followed by one at Blithfield on 27th, Whitemoor Haye May 2nd and Berry Hill 4th. The second major influx on May 14th saw birds at Belvide (seven), Berry Hill (five), Gailey (four) and Chasewater, followed by singles at Crossplains on 15th and Black Bank on 16th and 19th. A bird at Dry Stones, Morridge on 31st could have been a late migrant or breeder but was not seen again. Return passage commenced at Belvide on July 15th, followed by Berry Hill on 16th where the majority of birds were recorded: three on 31st, four on August 15th, four on 27th–28th, four on September 4th, one 12th, two 23rd and finally one on October 7th. Elsewhere there were singles at Doxey on August 5th, Cuckoo Bank on 20th, Sherbrook Valley on 26th, Blithfield on September 7th and two at Uttoxeter Quarry on 30th. A very late bird, possibly the latest ever, was surprisingly located at Lower Elkstone on October 28th. Close inspection revealed that this juvenile had only one eye, which may explain its inability to migrate. It remained there until November 2nd. W Mid During April, single birds were seen in Sandwell Valley from 23rd– 26th, Lutley Wedge on 25th and Dunstall Park on 25th and 29th. A fall in the west of the county on May 14th brought 17 birds to Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley, seven on Netherton Hill, four at Pedmore and two in Goscote Valley. Just singles were seen thereafter, on Netherton Hill on 15th and Smestow Valley on 17th. Return passage saw one or two birds in Sandwell Valley on eight dates from July 18th to September 11th and in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area on five dates from August 16th to September 12th. One bird visited Marsh Lane NR on August 10th, whilst at Sutton Park there were two on 14th, nine on 17th and four on 19th.

Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The first post-breeding record was of a bird at Lighthorne Quarry on September 11th, with subsequent reports coming from a further 31 sites during the period September 15th–November 6th. The largest counts were of three at Wasperton on September 22nd, five at Salford Priors GP on October 21st, three at Blythe Mill on 23rd and three at Ilming- ton Downs on 27th. Among the sites where birds were recorded were Abbots Salford, Atherstone, Bearley, Bishop’s Itchington, Bramcote Hall, Earlswood, Edge Hill, Farn - borough, Fenny Compton, Gaydon, Morton Bagot, Radway, Seeswood, Tysoe and Wootton Wawen. Subsequent wintering numbers were high with at least 43 recorded, including six at Coleshill, four in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area and trios at Alvecote, Salford Priors GP and Toft Farm Lakes. Other birds (mainly pairs) were also noted at Birchmoor, Blythe Mill, Brandon, Bridgetown Fields, Charlecote GP, Compton Verney, DMC Kineton, Draycote, Grandborough, Knightcote, Ladywalk, Lighthorne Quarry, Shrewley, Shustoke and Whitacre Heath NR.

144 Worcs

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoirs 21––––– 1333 Bredon Hill –81––––4542– Gwen Finch Wetland –2––––1–1442 Grimley 232––––13423 Hollybed Common –––222223––– Kinsham Lake 11––––––1412 Lower Moor 441––––––468 Throckmorton 4–3–––––1424 Upton Warren 121––––13341

Recorded throughout the year at Castlemorton Common, where successful breeding took place and pairs were also present during the breeding season at Hollybed Common, North Hill and Sugar Loaf Hill. Away from the tabulated sites first winter period records comprised two at Abberton on January 7th, one at Defford on 27th, two at Strensham Lagoons on February 4th, two at Eckington Bridge on 5th and one at Ashmoor Common on 15th. Later in the year a passage juvenile was at Ryall Pits on July 15th, while further autumn records comprised singles at Frankley on September 9th, Holt on 11th, Westwood Pool on 27th, Abberton on October 6th and 7th, two on Walton Hill on 10th, one at Clifton Pits on 13th, seven at Castlemorton Common on 7th, one at Kempsey Common on 16th, two at Shenstone on 19th and 20th, two on North Hill on 21st and one at Kempsey STW on 25th. Four were at Shenstone on November 1st, with two at Woodrow on 7th, one at Callow End on 13th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th, four at Castlemorton Common on 18th, one at Barnt Green 22nd, one at Lower Moor on 24th, two at Bredon’s Norton on December 4th and two at Rous Lench on 15th. Staffs Stonechats were seen widely outside the breeding season, and are doing well in their breeding areas of Highgate Common (one-two pairs), Cannock Chase (42 territories, massively up from 10 in 2002), Cuckoo Bank (four-five pairs) and the North Staffs Moors (10-12 pairs). In addition, a pair bred at Chasewater and three pairs possibly bred at Shoal Hill, Cannock but this was unproven. With nest gathering observed from mid-March and juveniles fledging into August, it is probable that some pairs had second broods. In the first winter period, the larger counts were six at Aqualate, five at Doxey and four at Blithfield and Ingestre. The first passage bird arrived at Berry Hill on September 9th. A total of 21 in Sherbrook Valley on October 11th (cf. 30 last year) was the highest count this year, probably resident breeders and their offspring. In the second winter period, the larger counts were eight at Berry Hill and Doxey, and six at Aqualate, Cuckoo Bank and Cannock Chase – Rifle Range. W Mid 1st–21st and one visited on February 21st. Singles were seen at Sheepwash UP on January 14th, Goscote Valley on 24th, 29th, February 14th and March 12th, Smestow Valley on February 4th and Foxcote on March 29th. At Blythe Valley CP, one was seen on February 5th and two on 19th. In Sandwell Valley, two were present on February 13th, one on 19th and two on March 7th. Single birds were seen at Coombeswood on February 17th, March 18th and April 22nd. Probably the same female was seen at Marsh Lane NR on February 23rd and March 2nd. One bird visited Lutley Wedge on March 8th. Later in the year, there was one in Goscote Valley between August 20th and September 29th, two on October 17th, four from 31st to November 28th and two on December 5th. One was seen at Bartley Reservoir on September 11th, with two on Netherton Hill on 13th, one from October 7th–10th and two on 8th. In Sutton Park, four birds were counted on September

145 14th, ten from 17th–19th, an impressive 16 on 26th, ten on 30th and five on October 14th. Possibly the same immature male was seen at Marsh Lane NR on September 18th, from October 12th–23rd and on November 3rd. One or two birds were regularly noted in Sandwell Valley from September 24th to December 9th, with seven on 17th. A male visited Dunstall Park on October 17th. A pair was noted at Oldwych Lane STW on November 2nd–3rd. 2006 Addendum W Mid A high total of ten birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on October 14th.

Northern Wheatear, Draycote, Steve Seal

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Frequent, but possibly declining, summer visitor, mainly to north Staffs. Fairly common and widespread on passage. One winter record. Long-term average: March 20th (70) to October 19th (71). 8-year average: March 10th (–10 days) to October 28th (+9 days). In line with recent trends the first was on March 11th at Britannia Stadium while the last, apart from an exceptional bird at British Camp on 3rd–10th December, was seen on October 31st in Sherbrook Valley. Warks After the first spring migrant at Draycote on March 21st, passage was generally well below average with around 99 birds recorded at 24 sites (cf. an average of 146 recorded over the period 2004-06). Most records were of one or two birds, with counts of three or more being confined to the last week or so in April. These included ten at Baginton Airport, three near Bearley Bushes, five at Morton Bagot and ten at Wishaw all on April 22nd, five on the Fenny Compton Hills and eight at Lighthorne Quarry on 24th and four at Morton Bagot on 30th. The latest spring reports were of singles at Coleshill GP on May 28th and on Baddesley Common on 29th. There was one midsummer report, of a female

146 at Abbots Salford on the odd date of June 25th. Return passage was also very light and consisted of only around 35 birds at 16 sites, which is half the average total for this season. The first birds were noted at Earlswood Lakes on July 31st and Draycote on August 7th, with most occurring from 17th–September 21st. Seven were noted during October including the latest birds at Draycote on 20th and near Seeswood Pool on 23rd. All autumn records referred to just one or two birds, with other sites involved including Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Bearley, Bermuda, Birchmoor, Bramcote Hall, Coleshill GP, Fenny Compton, Ilmington Downs, Marston Jabbett, Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP and Warwick Racecourse. Worcs

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abberton –––2––––5––– Bittell Reservoirs –––2––––21–– Bredon Hill – – – 10 9152245–– Bredonʼs Hardwick –––3–––1–––– British Camp ––––1–1––1–1 –––33––––––– Churchill ––251––––––– Clent Hills –––4–––––––– Clifton Pits –––21–––7––– Grimley –––3–––2–1–– Hollybed Common – – – 13 –––––––– Kinsham Lake –––1–––––––– Longdon Marsh ––––4–––1––– Lower Moor ––––1––––2–– Ryall Pits –––11–151––– Shenstone ––368––––––– Throckmorton –––3–––12––– Upton Warren ––37––––1––– Wassell Grove ––1114––––––– Westwood Pool – – – 114–––13–– Woodrow –––4–––––––– Worcs. Beacon –––2––––3–––

The first arrival of the year was at Churchill on March 16th, while further records away from the tabulated sites comprised singles at on 28th and Gwen Finch Wetland on May 6th, while at Frankley, two were present on 16th, with three present the next day and three on 23rd. An exceptionally late bird was present at British Camp from December 3rd to 10th. Staffs The first bird was seen by the Britannia Stadium on March 11th, after which ones and twos trickled through into April, the best being five at Berry Hill and three on The Roaches on March 31st and six on the Weaver Hills on April 6th. The first birds on territory were 10 at Three Shires Head on 7th. Low, single-figure numbers continued to filter through until the first peak from April 20th–29th when county totals exceeded double figures and principal counts were obtained from Whitemoor Haye (eight on 22nd), Berry Hill (35 on 24th, 62 on 25th), Blithfield (14 on 25th) and Silverdale Colliery (25 on 25th). An exceptional and unprecedented second influx, presumably Icelandic/Greenland race birds, occurred in the period May 14th–20th with notable numbers at Berry Hill (38 on 14th, 18 on 19th, 10 on 20th) and Crossplains (10 on 14th, nine on 16th). The last birds on spring passage were at Blithfield on May 24th and Bateswood on the very late date of June 1st.

147 Breeding was confirmed at Musden Low, Round Knowl Farm and Stanshope, with other summer sightings of probable breeders at Alstonefield, Bottom House, Flash (two pairs), Grindon Moor, Knotbury, Old Mixon Hay, Orchard Common, Thorswood NR, Three Shires Head and Wettonmill. Return migration was much better than last year, the first at Anson’s Bank on July 15th, then at Aqualate, Byrkley Park and Crossplains (three) on August 8th, after which regular sightings at many sites, in particular at Crossplains (97 birds on 22 dates between August 8th and October 9th) and Blithfield (19 birds on 17 dates between August 9th–October 16th). Double-figure counts from Crossplains were 13 on August 17th, 12 on September 20th and 10 on 21st. Ones or twos were also recorded at 13 other sites, the last of which were at Belvide on October 17th and Sherbrook Valley on 31st. A female at Blithfield on August 17th had a huge neck swelling due to a tick infection. W Mid Birds were seen in Lutley Wedge on 15 dates from March 22nd to April 25th, with five on March 29th, four on April 5th and 9th, and five on 25th. Up to three were seen in Sandwell Valley from March 28th into May. An excellent passage in the Foxcote/Lutley area saw a total of 27 different birds on eleven dates from March 29th to April 20th, with highs of five on March 29th and four on April 10th. At Dunstall Park, birds were seen on 12 dates from March 30th to May 26th, with six on April 25th and an impressive 21 in a local fall on May 14th that also saw six birds in nearby Smestow Valley. One was noted in Goscote Valley on April 1st and 18th, with two on May 14th. Singles were at Dorridge on April 13th, Netherton Hill on April 13th and May 1st, with two on 14th, plus one in Blythe Valley on April 15th, Pedmore on 25th and Fen End on 29th. Return passage saw fewer birds, with singles at Dunstall Park on July 16th and 29th, and August 16th and 25th, two on 27th, and one on September 5th and 24th, plus singles at Marsh Lane NR on August 10th and 23rd, and September 3rd, 7th and 14th, Netherton Hill on September 9th and 23rd, and Sandwell Valley on October 4th. At least one bird was at Wishaw on October 12th, with two on 14th–15th and six on 16th.

Icelandic Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe schioeleri Worcs Seven, including three males, showing characteristics of this race, were noted at Ryall Pits on April 29th AWa.

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa Rare or scarce passage migrant (9/10). Warks A male at Charlecote GP on May 7th was joined by a female on 9th, with the latter seen again on 11th and at nearby Wasperton on 14th ARD. A female was also at Dosthill from May 16th–18th ARD and a male at Lea Marston on 21st ARD. Worcs A male showing characteristics of this race was noted at Ryall Pits on May 20th GHP. Staffs An influx of birds showing typical characteristics appeared on May 14th with six (3m, 3f) at Silverdale Colliery NJS, SJT, eight (4m, 4f) at Berry Hill SJT, NDP and a female at Drayton Bassett Pits JHa. These were followed by two females at Silverdale Colliery and three (2m, 1f) at Berry Hill on 17th SJT, two females at Berry Hill on 20th NDP and finally one there on 21st SJT. W Mid Birds exhibiting characteristics of this race were noted at Marsh Lane NR on April 19th, 21st and 29th and October 1st per NPB. Three birds accompanied 21 nominate Northern Wheatear at Dunstall Park as part of the local fall on May 14th GAC.

148 2006 Addendum W Mid A female was seen in Sandwell Valley on May 5th PMH.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Scarce and declining, summer resident on the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: March 31st (51) to October 28th (45). 8-year average: March 27th (–4 days) to November 5th (+8 days). A very early first arrival at Worcestershire Beacon on March 18th but a more typical last bird on November 5th at Sandwell Valley. Warks It was easily the best spring on record with 15 reported; but many more must have gone unrecorded, particularly on the southern hills. Most records concerned single males, but there were at least three females amongst the total and one trio. The first of these was seen at Charlecote GP on March 30th JJB, with further birds at Napton Hill on April 10th TMa, Edge Hill above Tysoe FA D and by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on 12th JJB, Alcester on 13th per JJB, Fenny Compton Hills on 14th JJB, Ilmington Downs (three) on 16th JJB, Meon Hill on 17th MDBa, Baxterley on 22nd–23rd KWa et al., Salford Priors GP also on 22nd JJB, Corley Moor RCWW and Brandon on 27th BMCG, and finally, Draycote from 26th–May 2nd TBr et al. In the autumn, a first- winter male was seen at Napton Hill on October 16th TMa, with possibly a different first-winter there on 17th JJB. Worcs Spring passage com - menced with a male on Worcestershire Beacon on March 18th, followed by one at Clent Hill on 31st, while in April a female on Bredon Hill on 4th was the first of a marked passage at this site, which was thought to have involved around 40 in- dividuals, with selected counts Ring Ouzel, Baxterley, Steve Seal comprising six on 13th, 13 on 18th, nine on 20th, 15 on 23rd, seven on 30th, six on May 3rd and finally two on 6th and 7th. Other April records comprised a female on Clent Hill on 8th, followed by a male there on 17th, single males at Shenstone on 14th, 20th and 24th, a female at Bittell Reservoirs on 18th, a female on Worcestershire Beacon on 20th, a male at Elmbridge on 25th, two on Walton Hill on 26th, a male at Shenstone on 29th and a male on British Camp on May 6th. Return passage was heralded by three in Happy Valley on September 30th, while in October females were on Bredon Hill on 1st and 3rd, being followed by two there on 7th, six on 10th and 12th, one on 14th, two on 18th, one on 20th, five on 24th and singles on 27th and 29th. A male was at British Camp on 8th, while in Happy Valley numbers fluctuated during the month with four on 11th and 13th, six on 14th, five on 15th, two on 16th, six on 17th, five on 21st and six on 24th. Staffs There was a large spring passage nationally in 2007 and this was reflected in the county with at least 29 birds being recorded, far higher than usual. An early female arrived

149 at Berry Hill on March 30th, followed by a male there on April 9th, then single males at Black Bank on 10th, Silverdale Colliery on 12th, Woodhead on 13th, a female at Silverdale Colliery on 17th, a male at Butterton on 20th–22nd, one at Hanchurch Woods on 21st, a male at Barton GP on 22nd, a female at Silverdale Colliery on 23rd, two at Mow Cop on 25th–26th, five at Round Knowl Farm on 25th, a female at Berry Hill on 28th joined by a second on 29th and finally one at Penkridge on May 2nd. The picture on the North Staffordshire Moors around Knotbury/Three Shires Head/Wolf Edge was complex to resolve since birds could easily commute between these sites and intermittent records make it impossible to determine if they were the same or different birds; but four on April 7th rose to 10 on 13th–15th, 13 on 21st and 10 on 22nd, after which the majority moved on. One, possibly two pairs bred on the North Staffs Moors, with a juvenile reported on May 17th before a report of adults feeding two young at a nest site on 30th and a juvenile seen on June 20th. A quiet autumn passage produced just three sightings in October: Westport on 3rd, Silverdale Colliery on 14th and a first-winter male at Crossplains on 30th. W Mid During spring, two birds were noted in Sandwell Valley on April 11th and one on 17th, with a male on Netherton Hill on 13th. The only autumn migrants were one at Wednesfield on October 6th and another in Sandwell Valley on November 3rd.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding territory counts indicate that this species is doing well at present. Counts included: 12 at Brandon Marsh (as in 2006), 34 in 72 ha of Kingsbury/Edge Hill Woods (cf. 32 in 2005), 17 on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth, 18 in 40 ha at Oldberrow (as in 2006) and 32 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot (cf. 31 in 2006, 27 in 2005). The total of 138 counted across the MOD land at DMC Kineton in May was only bettered there by 148 in 2002. The first substantial arrival of autumn migrants was a count of 30 at Earlswood Lakes on October 1st, and subsequently there were many reports of flocks or counts of up to 40 across the county, with a substantial arrival indicated during November. Maxima during this period included 90 at Napton Res on November 3rd, 55 at Salford Priors GP on 4th, 45 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on 13th, 100 at Wormleighton Res on 14th, 58 at Eathorpe on 23rd and 50 at Charlecote GP on 27th. An almost wholly white male bird sporting rather striking black primary edges, vent and tail, was resident in central Warwick during November-December where it caused much comment from local people and visitors alike. Worcs Twelve noted singing at Bittell Reservoirs on March 23rd and 20+ in Happy Valley on October 14th, were the only notable records received. Staffs 20-25 pairs bred at Belvide and 28 at Doxey (30, 28, 26 in the previous three years). A total of 34 at Berry Hill between April and June and 27 at Tittesworth in August represented a reasonable breeding season. In the first winter period, the larger January flocks comprised 22 at Berry Hill on 6th, 22 at Alrewas on 14th and 30 at River Sow Meadows on 23rd. Some excellent flocks of continental migrants were recorded in the second winter period: 29 at Doxey (October 7th), 30 at Cannock Chase – White House (16th), 25 at Park Hall CP (November 5th), 61 at Doxey (11th), 30 at Hales Hall (16th), 48 at Alrewas (25th), 103 at Berry Hill (30th) and 34 at Yoxall (December 23rd). W Mid A CBC of Saltwells Wood revealed 47 territories, compared to eleven in the last census in 1983. On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 19 territories were recorded, the lowest total since monitoring began in 1992, and compared to 23 last year and the average of 30 over the last 16 years. An estimated ten pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, compared to eight last

150 year. In Coundon Wedge, a maximum of 67 birds were counted during late winter, compared to highs of 58 in the same period last year and 57 in 2005. A count of 20 birds was made at Portway on June 10th. Autumn passage at Marsh Lane NR included eleven birds on September 22nd, up to six in November and ten in December. Six migrants flew over Netherton Hill with other thrushes on November 1st, with four on 4th. Other high counts included 20 birds in Cotwall End Valley on November 10th and Penn on 15th, and 25 in Sandwell Valley on 16th and Cornets End on December 26th.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs. Moors 1974-77, 1980 and 1985. Long-term average: October 1st (72) to May 5th (71). 8-year average: September 28th (–3 days) to May 7th (+2 days). Apart from a very early bird on September 13th at Maxstoke, arrivals varied little from the long-term average. The last departure was on May 13th at Berry Hill. Warks Some good-sized flocks were present during the late winter period, particularly in the Feldon and Avon Valley districts. The largest by far was present in Fenny Compton, where up to 5000 were estimated across the parish during the first week in January; with 1600 at nearby Wormleighton on 3rd. Other maxima in the south and east included 500 at both Chesterton and Lower Radbourn on January 7th, 420 at Southam on 9th, 700 at Copdock Hill on 12th, 1200 at Sherbourne on 17th, 500 at Haselor on 21st, 1000 between Charlecote and Wasperton on 31st, 600 near Kenilworth on 6th, 700 at Harbury Heath on February 7th, 500 at Chadshunt on 19th and 850 at Priors Hardwick on 28th. Few notable counts came as usual from northern districts, but these did include 600 at Shustoke on January 1st and 500 at Alvecote on 25th. March brought a significant reduction in flock size and frequency and maxima during this month included 515 at Upper Shuckburgh on 7th, 313 at Spernall Park and a spring peak of 850 at Fenny Compton on 10th, 300 at Salford Priors GP on 11th, 250 at Napton Res on 17th and 550 at Charlecote GP on 20th. Flocks of up to a hundred were still frequent during the first week of April, with 125 at Fenny Compton on 3rd, 300 at Seeswood Pool on 4th and 140 near Stoneleigh on 7th the best counts. In the second week there were several smaller flocks of up to 50, with 40 at Brandon on April 16th the last of these. The final spring records concerned nine at Ratley on April 22nd and one at Tysoe on May 7th. Autumn records commenced with an early bird at Maxstoke on September 13th and 20 at DMC Kineton on 29th, but with no more in evidence until eight appeared at Alcester and 22 flew west-south-west at Fenny Compton on October 6th. Very small numbers were reported on most subsequent days, but 58 moving south-east at Fenny Compton on October 13th and 80 at Packwood on 14th were the only counts over ten until the beginning of the main influx on 18th. 190 flew south at Bidford-on-Avon on that date, followed by 500 at Bishop’s Itchington and 380 moving west at Haseley on 19th, and 2000 heading south-west at Fenny Compton on 20th. Reports during the last week included 168 west at Morton Bagot on 21st and 1100 flying south at Ilmington Downs on 27th. The main autumn influx occurred during early November, with 3000 arriving at Fenny Compton on 8th, 3500 in the Itchen valley below Knightcote on 10th and 1000 at Wormleighton Res on 14th. Fenny Compton again hosted great flocks feeding on the abundant haws, with these peaking at 6000 on 17th before dropping gradually to around 1500 in December. Subsequent counts in this part of the county included 2000 at Knightcote on November 20th, 1500 at North - end on 21st, a peak of 1400 at Wormleighton Res on December 13th, 600 at Farnborough

151 Park on 13th, 1700 at Northend on 16th and 600 at Gaydon on 27th. The lower Arrow Valley also did well during this period with maxima of 2350 at Salford Priors GP on November 11th and 2500 feeding on windfall apples in an orchard at nearby Dunnington on December 16th, during a cold snap. Flock sizes from other parts of the county seldom got higher than 250, but counts did include 300 at Wootton Wawen STW on November 11th, 850 at Napton Res on 16th, 1000 between Harbury and Ufton on 17th and a peak of 700 between Charlecote and Wasperton on December 9th. Worcs In January, 500 and 750 were at Longdon Marsh on 1st and 13th respectively, 400 were at Lower Moor on 19th and 800+ were at Pixham Meadows on 27th, while in February, 150 were at Arrow Valley North, 250 at Stoke Bliss on 11th and 140 at Abberton 14th. March records comprised 101 at Holt on 24th, 1000+ at Longdon Marsh on 25th, 100 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 29th and 500 on Bredon Hill on 30th. A marked easterly passage was noted at Little Comberton in early April comprising 120 on 2nd, 140 on 3rd, 460 on 5th and finally 38 on 9th. Second winter period records comprised 25 at Stoke Bliss on September 27th, one on Bredon Hill on October 7th, 20 at Gwen Finch Wetland on 9th, 42 flew south over Evesham on 12th, eight at Clevelode and four in Happy Valley on 14th, 250 on Bredon Hill on 18th, 55 at Upton Warren on 19th, 250 over Worcestershire Beacon on 20th, 800 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 24th, 400 at Clifton Pits and 210 east over Haselor on 25th, 360 south over Little Comberton on 26th and a flock estimated to be between 800 and 1000 was on Bredon Hill on 27th. In November 250 were noted at Salwarpe on 4th, 2,000 were at Lower Moor on 5th and 1,000 were at the latter locality on 13th, while in December, 180 were at Rous Lench on 15th and 100 were at Besford on 29th. Staffs Significant flocks were widespread in the first winter period, as follows: January: at Blithfield (150), Combridge (600), Croxall NR (105), Foker Grange (300), Keele University (230), Tittesworth (100) and Whitmore (150); February: at Bloreheath (650), Chasewater (100), Doxey (185), Keele University (150), Napley (100), Pattingham (100), River Sow Meadows (450), Shugborough (150), Tittesworth (110), Tixall Canal (120), Weston Jones Mill (180) and Whitmore (400); March at Belvide (150), Branston GP (100), Cotes Heath (220), Croxall NR (240), Hanchurch Woods (150), Keele University (180), Pattingham (100), Penkridge (100), River Sow Meadows (150), The Clive Farm (100) and Woodhead (100). Migrants were noted heading northwards at Madeley, 75 on March 15th, 20 over Weston Jones on 19th, 10 over Strawberry Hill on April 4th and 32 over River Sow Meadows on 7th. In early April there were 140 at Keele University on 3rd, 100 at Woodhead on 4th and 124 at Cuckoo Bank on 9th after which numbers quickly diminished, the last being one at Berry Hill on 20th, 30 at Blackbrook Zoological Park on 21st and a very late bird at Berry Hill on May 13th. Autumn birds started to appear in low numbers from October 5th with two over Black Bank and four at Woodhead, quickly rising to 150 at Tittesworth on 11th, 100 at Aqualate on 16th, 500 at Berry Hill and 250 on Biddulph Moor on 18th. Visible migration was noted from October 5th until November 1st, after which a later influx on 15th included 200 at Tittesworth and 200 over Black Bank (see also Redwing). October migration highlights were 86 over Belvide (14th), 83 over Black Bank (19th), 295 over Belvide and 80 landing at Berry Hill (20th), 150 over Wetley Moor (21st), 75 over Black Bank (24th), 155 over Belvide (27th) and 70 over Black Bank (30th). The only other three figure flock in October was 200 at Alrewas on 27th; in November at Aqualate (500), Crossplain Wood (300), Croxall NR (300), Essington Quarry Pool (100), Hollinsclough (150) and Whitmore (100); in December at Croxall NR (100), Hanchurch Woods (150), Keele University (250), Stableford (100), Uttoxeter – Willow Farm (122) and Winnington (200).

152 W Mid The highest counts during the first winter period involved 103 birds in Smestow Valley on January 1st and 136 on February 9th, and 143 at Marsh Lane NR on March 10th and 15th. Totals of 30 to 45 birds were also noted in Coundon Wedge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Lutley Wedge, Pedmore and Saltwells LNR. During the second winter period there were 65 birds at Dunstall Park on November 3rd, 50 in Sandwell Valley on 11th, 130 at Marsh Lane NR on 24th and 100 at Druids Heath Golf Course on December 30th, with 30 to 40 recorded at Aldridge, Cornets End, Coundon Wedge and Wollaston. The last bird at Marsh Lane NR on May 4th and the first on September 23rd were, respectively, the latest and earliest site records ever. Visible migration at Netherton Hill revealed the following counts:

October November 18th 20th 25th 29th 30th 31st 1st 4th 12th Netherton Hill 3 685 1 64 36 21 14 50 10

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined, though still abundant, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The total of 38 recorded at DMC Kineton in May was only bettered in three other years, all since 2002. Census work produced three territories in 79 ha at Lapworth, three in 120 ha at Morton Bagot and five in 40 ha at Oldberrow (cf. three in 2006 and two in 2005). Other counts of singing males included 13 at Brandon, five at Lighthorne Quarry, six along the River Leam at Newbold Comyn, and eight around Salford Priors GP. Counts of early autumn migrants included 25 at Wormleighton Res on October 5th and 25 at Fenny Compton on 13th. The species was subsequently numerous in the south during November- December, with counts including over 30 by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton November 2nd, 27 at Napton Res on 3rd, 28 showing characteristics of the continental race at Salford Priors GP after fog on 4th (with up to 25 there in December), 50 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on 13th, 25 at Charlecote GP on 27th, 30 at Lighthorne Quarry on December 7th and 16 in Hampton Wood on 16th. Worcs Breeding season records comprised a nesting pair at Bittell Reservoirs and two pairs were noted with fledged young at Grimley. The only notable counts made were of ten on Table Hill on September 22nd, 20 in Happy Valley on October 14th, with 15 there the following day and four at Salwarpe on November 4th. Staffs Breeding reports included Apedale (10 territories in/near Watermills Wood – stable), Baggeridge CP (seven), Belvide (eight-nine pairs – stable), Doxey (15 pairs, cf. 12 and 15 in previous two) and River Sow Meadows (seven). A summer count of 10 at Dimmingsdale indicated a healthy population, and the autumn influx was noted in late September/early October with eight at Black Bank, 18 over Belvide and up to 19 at Doxey. W Mid Twelve territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to two in the last census in 1983. About four pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, two successfully. Three territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to two last year and the average of four over the last 16 years. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Amblecote, Bumble Hole, Cofton Common, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Edgbaston Reservoir, Kingswinford, Marston Green, Mary Stevens Park, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sneyd, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Thimblemill Brook, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Windsor Fields. Ten birds were noted in Coundon Wedge on February 3rd, whilst up to four migrants flew over Netherton Hill each day from October 29th to November 1st.

153 Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: September 27th (73) to April 19th (72). 8-year average: September 24th (–3 days) to April 21st (+2 days). Recent trends are close to the long-term average. The first bird was seen on September 26th at Swift Valley CP with a widespread arrival the next day. The last bird was seen on the late date of May 12th at Seven Springs. Warks Generally speaking wintering numbers in much of the county were well above average, particularly in the south where flocks of up to 300 were present in many areas. The largest concentration was 1600 eating the last of the haws along the Oxford Canal between Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res on January 3rd; while other good counts included 500 at Radway on January 5th, 850 at Wasperton on 12th, 700 at Sherbourne on 17th, 460 at Wootton Wawen STW on 28th, 400 roosting in a spinney at Wormleighton Res on February 1st, and 500 near Kenilworth on 6th. Flocks were much smaller in the north, with the largest counts of 200 at Alvecote and 150 on the North Warwickshire GC in January, and 100 at Maxstoke in February. Numbers were much reduced across the county in March, with maxima of 180 at Charlecote GP on 6th, 170 at Upper Shuckburgh on 7th and 300 at Fenny Compton on 10th. Very few were still in the county by late March; with 20 at Ladywalk on April 5th the last flock, followed by five at Fenny Compton on 7th, one at Hartshill Hayes on 8th and the last at Lighthorne Quarry on 13th. One flying west at Swift Valley CP on Sept 26th was the first autumn report. Westerly movement was then noted at a number of sites across the county during the next few days, with maxima of 40 over Ladywalk and 30 over Stockingford on 27th, 24 over Earlswood on 28th and at least 120 over Brandon and 30 over Shustoke on 30th. On October 2nd 135 moved south-west at Wormleighton Res and over 100 south-west at Farnborough Park. Subsequent counts were mainly on the modest side, but did include 150 at Haseley on October 19th, 1200 moving south-west at Fenny Compton on 20th, 102 south-west at Hartshill Hayes in two hours on 22nd, 220 at Hampton Lucy on 23rd, 200 moving south at Ilmington Downs on 27th and 200 at Northend on 28th. The main autumn influx began in early November and was larger than usual. Again the largest flock was at Fenny Compton feeding on the abundant haw crop, and here numbers steadily increased from 700 on 2nd to peaks of 2600 on 8th and 2500 on 17th, before dropping back to a regular 500 during December. Another favoured locality in the south-east, Wormleighton Res, had peaks of 850 on November 14th and 1000 on 28th before also dropping to 500 during December. Other counts in the south-east included 1000 at Knightcote on November 10th and 20th, 350 at Farnborough Park on 21st, 500 at Lighthorne Quarry on December 7th and 350 at DMC Kineton on 28th. Elsewhere in the south and east flocks of up to 200 were fairly widespread, but there were no significant reports from the north. Maxima included 300 at Morton Bagot and 393 at nearby Spernall Park on November 4th, 470 at Salford Priors GP and 330 at Wootton Wawen STW on 11th, 500 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on 13th, 550 at Napton Res on 16th, 328 at Henley GC on 19th, and a peak of 400 between Charlecote and Wasperton on December 9th. Worcs During January 350+ were at Longdon Marsh on 1st and 13th, 200 at Arrow Valley North on February 11th and 100+ at Castlemorton Common on March 30th. Later in the year, 35 were on Bredon Hill and eight were at Malvern Link on September 27th and two at Bredon on 28th. October records comprised three at Bittell Reservoirs on 1st, 250+ in Happy Valley on 14th, 150 on Worcestershire Beacon on 20th, 200 in Happy Valley on 21st, two in the Wyre Forest on 21st, 500 on Bredon Hill on 24th and 100 on Bredon Hill

154 on 27th, while in November 600 were at Salwarpe on 4th, 520 at Lower Moor on 5th and in December, 69 were near Upper Arley on 30th and 20 at Malvern Link on 31st. Staffs Redwing flock sizes were generally smaller than that of Fieldfares and in the first winter period were quite modest; in January at Berry Hill (120), Biddulph (100), Hole Valley/Manifold Valley (155) and Whitmore – Bent Lane (100); in February at Apedale CP (250), Doxey (100), Horton (200), Ingestre (100), Keele University (100), Shugborough (150) and Tixall (250); in March only at Belvide (200). Migration seems to have largely finished in March with a few trickling through in April, the last at Belvide on 14th–19th with stragglers at Croxall NR on 30th and Seven Springs on May 12th (cf. the last Fieldfare record). Autumn began in very unusual fashion with a mass arrival, occurring on Septem - ber 27th, at Aqualate (five), Black Bank (76), Blithfield (100), Dimmingsdale (100), Keele University (five) and Milton (two). Visible migration extended from this date until November 1st with a late flurry of 130 over Black Bank on November 15th – match ing that of fieldfare migration. Larger migrant flocks were 126 over Black Bank (October 4th), 172 over Belvide (14th), 130 over Black Bank (15th), 323 over Belvide (21st), 205 over Black Bank (23rd) and 248 (24th). Larger flocks were generally few and far between in the second winter period; in October at Aqualate (100), Berry Hill (100) and Silverdale Colliery (120); in November at Aqualate (170) and Hales Hall Pool (150); in December at Biddulph (250), Keele (500) and Stableford (100). W Mid High counts made during the first winter period included 145 at Saltwells LNR on January 1st, 71 at Dunstall Park on 5th, 258 in Smestow Valley on 6th, 50 in Sandwell Valley on 10th, 80 in Coundon Wedge on 13th, 160 at Blythe Valley CP on February 19th and 70 at Calthorpe Park on 20th. Totals of 20 to 40 birds were also noted at Cornets End, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR and Reedswood Park. Smaller numbers were present in the second winter period, with highs of 100 birds at Marsh Lane NR on November 8th, 50 at Reedswood Park on December 4th, 60 in Sandwell Valley on 14th and 52 at Cornets End 26th, and between 20 and 40 at Black Patch Park, Brueton Park, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Lutley Wedge and Selly Oak. See also visible migration counts below:

October November 18th 20th 25th 29th 30th 31st 1st 4th 12th Netherton Hill 30 465 42 113 41 31 53 60 8

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Warks Breeding records included at least five pairs in the Piles Coppice/Brandon Wood area, six at Fenny Compton and four in the Lapworth Park area. Post-breeding counts included flocks of 16 feeding in bean stubble at Toft Farm, Dunchurch on September 5th, 27 at Hams Hall on 16th and 33 feeding on yew berries at Compton Verney on 19th. Worcs Breeding season records comprised a nesting pair at Bittell Reservoirs and two pairs were noted with fledged young at Grimley. The only notable counts made were of 12 at Bittell Reservoirs on September 30th, 18 on Bredon Hill on October 1st and seven at Salwarpe on November 4th. Staffs This year the species was recorded from 87 sites scattered throughout the County with breeding at seven; Belvide (one pair), Berry Hill (several), Doxey (two pairs, down from three in 2004-6), Knotbury/Readyleach Green, Pipe Green (several), Ranton and Woodhead. Singing birds were also noted at 25 other sites. Post-breeding gatherings were lower than usual, perhaps reflecting a poor breeding season, the best being 20 at Berry Hill on June 1st, 20 at Wetley Moor on 21st, 21 at Keele University on July 2nd,

155 18 at Weston Jones Mill on 22nd, 18 at Westport on September 2nd and 20 at Berry Hill on 4th. W Mid Five territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to three in the last census in 1983. One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year and compared to the average of three over the last 16 years. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Aldridge, Amblecote, Black Patch Park, Cannon Hill Park, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Kingswinford, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs, at least one successful), Mary Stevens Park, Minworth STW, Pedmore, Portway, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Walsall, Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton. High counts in August included a record 47 at Dunstall Park on 15th and 44 on Netherton cricket pitch on 28th.

Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Warks This warbler continues to increase and expand its range within the county, with records this year from 12 sites (cf. nine in 2006). The stronghold at Brandon held up to 11 breeding territories (cf. seven in 2005-06), where a record 22 including many juveniles were trapped and ringed BMCG. Breeding was also proved again at Napton Res, where there were two territories and three were singing here in September JJB et al. In the Warwick area, there was one breeding territory again at Barford MRM and one at New Waters in Warwick Castle Park, where at least four were present in November JJB, SEAP. There was no breeding season record this year from Coombe Abbey, but a pair was here (with the male in song) on January 30th JJB. In the Tame Valley, up to three were at Ladywalk from April 18th–24th, with one or two again from September 12th–December 4th many observers, with a maximum of four on November 21st DEa. Fisher’s Mill GP again hosted birds, with two on January 5th and then one staying until April 6th JHa et al. A male was singing there on October 28th AGW, and again from November 15th– December 31st JHa et al. One was also seen at Coleshill GP on October 19th BLK. In the south of the county, singles were reported from Wormleighton Res on January 16th and again from March 26th–31st JJB, at Compton Verney on February 19th JJB, and at Charlecote GP (in song) on March 16th ARD. The latter two sites were new localities for this species. Finally, Abbots Salford Pool had a single bird from February 25th–March 18th JJB, and again from August 30th–September 6th BGP. Worcs At Upton Warren, a maximum of four singing males were recorded across the reserve, though just a single brood of four was observed at the Moors Pool AWa et al. Elsewhere in the county, four singing males were reported, with one at a site in the Avon Valley from March 18th–November 23rd RAPr, where the presence of a female was also confirmed on September 8th AWa, one at Oakley Marsh on May 2nd DREW, Aston Mill on 20th RAPr and Abberton Mill from October 6th–20th GHP. Two juveniles frequented the banks of the River Severn in the extreme south of the county on July 31st RAPr. Staffs A singing bird was heard in suitable breeding territory until mid March (site and observers withheld). At Belvide, a bird was trapped and ringed on September 21st and presumably the same bird that was seen again on October 7th SNu.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 18th (71) to August 30th (61). 8-year average: April 10th (–8 days) to September 6th (+8 days).

156 First arrivals noted on April 14th at Brandon, Blithfield, Berry Hill and Chasewater; the last on September 4th in Sandwell Valley. Warks Probable breeding territories were located at: Birchmoor (two in set-aside), Brandon (at least four), DMC Kineton, Dosthill/Kingsbury area (at least three), Lea Marston, Lighthorne Quarry, Middleton, Radway, Tysoe and Whitacre Heath NR. The first spring migrants appeared at Brandon (two) on April 14th, with others recorded daily thereafter; including up to four reeling at Birchmoor. Other records of males reeling on passage away from suspected breeding sites included singles at Salford Priors GP on April 15th, Coleshill GP on 21st, Morton Bagot from 21st–23rd, and at Whittleford Park from 23rd–25th. A bird heard reeling in a small marsh at Baginton on August 31st was the last report of the year. Worcs The first spring arrivals comprised two birds at Throckmorton Lagoons on April 15th and reeling males were noted at Ipsley Alders on 17th and 18th, Lower Moor from 18th– 26th, Upton Warren on Grasshopper Warbler, Brandon, Steve Seal 22nd, Longdon Marsh on 25th and Rous Lench on 28th, with the latter locality holding three, including two reeling males on May 3rd. Further May records comprised reeling males at Oakley Marsh on 2nd, Rous Lench on 3rd, Upton Warren on 5th, Castlemorton Common from 6th–August 3rd, with two noted there on May 7th and Lower Moor on 20th. Staffs The first arrivals on April 14th were at Berry Hill (three), Blithfield and Chase - water. Breeding territories continued to increase, boosted by 18 at Cuckoo Bank which more than offset some reductions elsewhere, the only other stronghold being Berry Hill (five). The last records, on July 31st, were from Berry Hill and Cuckoo Bank.

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Breeding/Reeling 7 10 14 15 20 28 37 44–45 W Mid Two birds reeled in Sandwell Valley during the breeding season, whilst at least seven were counted across Sutton Park on June 14th.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Fairly common to common, though declining summer resident. Long-term average: April 16th (71) to September 30th (65). 8-year average: April 6th (–10 days) to September 30th (=). First arrival seen on April 11th at Seeswood Pool, closely followed by a more widespread arrival. The last bird was seen on October 7th at Salford Priors GP. Warks Breeding season records came from 29 sites (one more than 2006), with the usual fluctuations; such as only three pairs breeding at Salford Priors GP (cf. 20 in 2006) due to habitat destruction through pit restoration. Some of the better counts of singing males included 13 at Abbots Salford, nine at Brandon, at least ten at Fisher’s Mill GP, five at Lighthorne Pools and seven at Napton Res. Less usual localities with one or two

157 singing males included Attleborough Fields, Bridgetown Fields (Stratford), Henley GC, Kinwarton, Radway, Swift Valley CP and Wootton Wawen. The first spring migrants were noted at Seeswood Pool on April 11th and Fisher’s Mill GP on 13th, with birds noted daily thereafter. One singing in rape at Morton Bagot on April 22nd was the only notable report away from a breeding site. In the autumn period birds were noted at several sites during early September, up to the 16th; with a particularly late bird at Salford Priors GP on October 7th. Worcs First noted at Lower Moor, Rous Lench and Upton Warren on April 14th, with singles present at each locality and recorded during the breeding season at Arrow Valley Lake, Bittell Reservoirs (two), Lower Moor (eight), Gwen Finch Wetland (seven), Kinsham Lake (six), Oakley Pool and Upton Warren (four), while singles at Marlbrook on May 12th and Stoke Bliss on 19th were unusual records for both localities. Two juveniles were noted at Castlemorton Common on August 3rd and eight juveniles at Kinsham Lake on 17th, whilst the last sighting of the year came from Gwen Finch Wetland on September 14th. Staffs First seen on April 13th at Doxey and Westport. Birds were present and presumably bred at Alrewas, Aqualate, Belvide (14-15 pairs), Berry Hill (five), Branston Water Park, Calwich Park, Chasewater, Coldmeece, Consall CP, Croxall NR, Derrington (one pair – first time), Doxey (49 territories, cf. 72 in 2006, 85 in 2005), Drayton Bassett Pits, Elford GP, Hales Hall Pool, Handsacre Flash (six), River Sow Meadows (five+), Tameside NR (two), Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge and Westport. Last seen at Doxey on September 9th and Drayton Bassett Pits on 17th. W Mid Breeding occurred at Marsh Lane NR (seven songsters), whilst birds lingered during the breeding season in Sandwell Valley (five on May 24th) and Smestow Valley, but nesting was not confirmed. A local fall of birds on May 14th saw five in Smestow Valley and singles at nearby Aldersley and Dunstall Park, as well as Goscote Valley. Otherwise, two were noted in Smestow Valley on April 30th, with singles at Saltwells LNR and West Bromwich on May 2nd, Dunstall Park on May 15th, June 16th and July 1st, Bartley Reservoir on May 17th, Edgbaston Pool on 29th and Coundon Wedge on July 14th.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Long-term average: April 24th (67) to September 29th (61). 8-year average: April 19th (–5 days) to October 7th (+8 days). First arrival earlier than of late on April 13th at Doxey Marshes; the last being seen on October 7th at Aqualate. Warks Breeding season records came from 35 sites, two more than in 2006. Counts of singing males included six at Abbots Salford, over 30 at Brandon, nine in the Coton/Lea Marston group of pools, five at Fisher’s Mill GP, ten at Lower Radbourn, 27 at Salford Priors GP and 16 at Wormleighton Res, with many sites showing a pronounced drop in numbers this year. Other, less usual, sites with singing males included Bridgetown Fields (Stratford), Henley GC, Kinwarton, Swift Valley CP, Welford-on-Avon and Weston-under- Wetherley. The first spring migrants were noted at Brandon on April 17th and Ladywalk on 18th, with many more arriving from 20th. At the other end of the season, birds were noted at many sites during September, with the last at Wormleighton Res on 27th and Salford Priors GP (two) on 30th. Worcs Singles were observed at Upton Warren on April 19th and Kinsham Lake on 23rd, while reports of singing males during the breeding season came from Arrow Valley Lake (two), Bittell Reservoirs, Feckenham Wylde Moor (nine), Grimley (14), Gwen Finch

158 Wetland (27), Hewell Grange (seven), Kinsham Lake (27), Lower Moor (five), Oakley Pool and Upton Warren (12). Very few autumn records received, with the only reports comprising singles at Kinsham Lake on September 15th and 21st and Gwen finch Wetland on October 1st. Staffs First recorded at Doxey on April 13th, then Doxey and Drayton Bassett Pits on 20th. Breeding was reported at Apedale CP (11-12 territories), Aqualate (“common”), Baggeridge CP (one), Barton GP (one), Belvide (20+), Berry Hill (one), Branston GP (two+), Branston Water Park (one), Chasewater (ten), Clay Mills STW, Croxall NR (one), Dosthill (nine), Doxey (18 pairs, cf. 17 in 2006, 20 in 2005), Hales Hall Pool (one), Hands - acre Flash (10), Ingestre (one), Milford (two), Norbroom Marsh (four), River Sow Meadows (two), Tixall Bridge (four) and Westport (two). The last sightings were at Aqualate on October 3rd and 7th. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR (15 songsters) and Sandwell Valley (six on July 17th), and were present during the breeding season at Blythe Valley CP (minimum of three birds on June 19th), Fens Pools and Saltwells LNR. Single passage birds were noted at Dunstall Park on May 3rd, 14th and 27th and August 19th, with two in Smestow Valley on May 21st.

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus Very rare vagrant (1/10). Staffs A singing bird was discovered at Barton GP on May 20th and duly attracted huge numbers of admirers. It spent most of the day singing and occasionally showing from a small reed bed, but was gone the next day. This is the first county record SARi, IMo and the fourth for the Region. See page 209.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Warks This warbler is doing very well in the county at present, and most repeat territory counts were either similar to 2006 or more often slightly higher. In addition, the Great Reed Warbler, Barton, Phil Jones total of 59 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the highest ever, continuing the steady increase there in recent years. Sites with more than five territories included: Abbots Salford (13), Alcester (seven at Arrow Valley NR), Bearley Bushes (six), Brandon Marsh (12), Brandon Wood (14), Chessetts Wood (six along the Grand Union Canal), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (eight), Fenny Compton (ten along the Oxford Canal), Ilmington Downs (seven), Kingsbury/Edge Hill Woods (12 in 72 ha), Morton Bagot (seven in 120 ha), Newbold Comyn (seven), Oldberrow (seven in 40 ha), Salford Priors GP (six), Ufton Fields (six), Whittleford Park (seven) and Wootton Pool (six). A highly mimetic male by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton was heard to give accurate renditions of Swallow, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Nightingale, Sedge Warbler, Common Whitethroat and Linnet, all of which breed or have held territory here in the last two years. The number of late winter reports was similar to the same period in 2006, with 22 recorded. The total included three at both Alcester and Napton, two at Combrook and

159 Wormleighton Res, and singles at Alveston, Barford, Bedworth, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Kenilworth, Kingswood, Nuneaton, Shustoke, Tredington, Whitnash and Wootton Wawen STW. Song was heard at several of these sites during the exceptionally warm weather in early March. Spring migrants were early to arrive, with birds in song at both Draycote and Lighthorne Quarry on March 14th, Cold Comfort Wood on 15th, and with the beginning of the main influx from 28th. Autumn passage was generally light with no large concentrations. The best counts were of seven at different sites at Fenny Compton on August 27th and September 1st, six at Napton Hill on 13th and six at Brandon on October 6th. Migrants continued to mid-month with probably the last at Haseley on October 19th and Charlecote GP on 23rd. One by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on November 2nd and three at Napton Res on 3rd were thought to be incoming winter visitors. Subsequently, about 16 over-wintering birds were noted, with three in Nuneaton, two each at Brandon, Fenny Compton, Guy’s Cliffe and Leamington Spa, and singles at Bearley, Draycote, Moreton Morrell, Rugby and Wormleighton Res. As is usual with winter sightings, most were from gardens. Worcs Very little breeding season data received. During April, reports of singing males comprised one at Arrow Valley North on 8th, four at Bittell Reservoirs on 13th, one at Upton Warren on 19th and six at Arrow Valley Lake on 19th and 24th. Six males were counted at Throckmorton Lagoons on May 14th, while a juvenile was observed at Kempsey on July 28th. During the first winter period, records comprised singles, unless otherwise stated at Abberton, Arrow Valley North, Barbourne, Corn Brook, Great Comberton, Kempsey STW, Little Comberton (two), Malvern Link (two), St Johns (four), Stoke Bliss and Upton-upon-Severn STW (two). Second winter period observations were made at Abberton, Arrow Valley, Barnt Green, Berkeley (two), Castlemorton Common, Kempsey (two), Longdon (three), Lower Moor (six), Lyppard Hanford, Malvern Link (two), Rous Lench (three), Sweet Green and St Johns (five). Staffs During the first quarter of the year, one or two birds were recorded at 16 sites (cf. 15 last year), but there was clearly an overlap between these and spring arrivals, the first of which was probably at Belvide on March 15th. The largest group of passage birds was 10 at Westport on April 20th. In late spring/early summer, 12+ pairs bred at Belvide (five-six in 2006), 79 territories were recorded over the whole of Cannock Chase (healthy population), 10 birds were recorded at Dimmingsdale and 11 pairs attempted at Doxey (10 in 2006), with smaller breeding concentrations recorded throughout the county. A survey of the Needwood Forest 10 x 10km area, SK12, produced 60 territories. Autumn groups peaked at five at Westport on August 26th–27th and six – nine at Black Bank between September 3rd–17th, numbers then tailing off until singles at Doxey on October 7th and Gailey on 10th, presumably the last summer/passage birds. The first wintering bird arrived at West End (Stoke) on October 29th, closely followed by Aston-by-Stone the next day; however after this, none were seen until just one at Yoxall and two at Weeping Cross in December which is well down on previous years when, for example in 2006, there were 16 sites holding one or two wintering birds. W Mid A CBC in Saltwells Wood revealed 14 territories, compared to five in the last census in 1983. Nine territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to last year’s 16 year low of six and the average of ten. About five pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. Birds were also present during the breeding season at Black Patch Park, Blythe Valley CP (seven males on June 19th), Bumble Hole LNR, Chadwick End, Cole Valley, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hockley, Ketley Quarry, Lutley Wedge (seven on April 22nd), Majors Green, Milburn Grange, National Exhibition Centre, Pedmore,

160 Portway, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley (12 on May 24th), Smestow Valley (21 on April 30th), The Spinney, Titford Pools, Warley Woods, West Bromwich (seven on June 13th) and Windsor Fields. During the first winter period, up to three birds were in a Tilehouse Green garden from January 1st to March 21st. At least two visited Dorridge gardens on January 23rd and 29th, and February 1st. Singles were seen in a Kingswinford garden from January 1st to February 12th, Saltwells LNR on January 1st, Sedgley on 15th, The Ards on 26th, Boldmere on 28th, Blythe Valley CP on February 5th, Smestow Valley on 8th and 26th, a Barston garden on 8th, Lutley Wedge and Netherton on 10th, Sandwell Valley on 13th and Kings Heath on 18th. In the second winter period, single birds were observed at Marsh Lane NR on November 4th, Lutley Wedge on 13th and December 21st, Smestow Valley on November 29th and December 7th and 12th, a Kingswinford garden on December 12th and a Tilehouse Green garden from December 16th–22nd, with two in a Dorridge garden from 11th–26th, one or two in an Acocks Green garden on 17th–18th and two at Edgbaston Reservoir on 29th.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Fairly common to common summer resident. Long-term average: April 21st (70) to September 15th (69). 8-year average: April 13th (–8 days) to September 24th (+9 days). First arrival on the early date of April 7th at Chaddesley Wood; the last on September 16th at Coton. Warks Sites reported with three or more singing males included: Bearley Bushes (three), Brandon Marsh (16), Brandon Wood (seven in scrubby grassland on the west side), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (11 in area), Fenny Compton (four along the Oxford Canal), DMC Kineton (15), Dosthill/Kingsbury area (12), Ladywalk (15), Pooley Fields NR (three), Ufton Fields (three), Whittleford Park (three) and Wormleighton Res (five). Numbers were fairly average at most sites. The first spring migrants were heard at Dray- cote on April 19th and Brandon on 20th, with the main arrival commencing on the 25th. The last in autumn were seen at Coton and Doxey on September 16th. Worcs A pair present at Nafford Lock from May 11th produced at least three young being seen with an adult in July. An early bird was observed at Chaddesley Wood on April 7th, the usual time of arrival for this species being mid April. Reported from 24 localities during the breeding season, compared to 37 in 2006, with singing males noted at Arrow Valley Lake, Birchen Coppice (three), Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell Reservoirs (two), British Camp, Castlemorton Common (two), Church Lench Pools (five), Devil’s Spittleful, Eymore Wood (five), Feckenham Wylde Moor, Hangman’s Hill (three), Holt, Kyre Brook (seven), Little Comberton, Lower Moor (three), Oxford, Shatterford Wood (two), Stren - sham Lagoons, Tank Quarry, Trench Wood (two), Upton Warren and Wyre Forest (seven). Two autumn records comprised one at Cleeve Prior on August 16th and two at Castle - morton Common on September 2nd. Staffs The first bird was seen a week later than last year, at Draycott-in-the-Clay on April 20th, followed the next day by birds at Doxey and Westport. The only real spring peak was five birds at Silverdale Colliery on the 28th. Larger breeding concentrations included Belvide (seven territories), Cannock Chase (43 territories throughout), Churnet Valley (six), Doxey (five, as 2006), and Tittesworth (20 birds), with many other sites reporting singing birds. Autumn migration was muted with just Black Bank, Blithfield, Chasewater and Drayton Bassett Pits recording migrants in August; the last birds and only September sightings, at Blithfield on 12th and Doxey on 16th.

161 W Mid One territory was noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood; none were recorded in the last census in 1983. Birds were also noted at Coombeswood, Dunstall Park, Goscote Valley, Hockley Heath, Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Marston Green, Packhorse Bridge Reserve, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, West Bromwich and Winson Green.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Two winter records. Long-term average: April 21st (71) to September 24th (71). 8-year average: April 17th (–4 days) to October 5th (+11 days). First noted on April 13th at Ingestre with the last to depart on September 29th at Knightcote. Warks Breeding numbers appeared to be around average in the south and east, but singing males were more widespread than normal in the north. Counts of breeding pairs included ten at DMC Kineton, 12 at Fenny Compton, five at Morton Bagot, six at Priors Hardwick and three at Salford Priors GP. Spring migrants were a week earlier arriving than average; with the first singing males at DMC Kineton, Morton Bagot (two) and Salford Priors GP on April 15th, with many more recorded over the next few days. The species was almost abundant in places during the period April 20th–25th when counts included 11 along the Oxford Canal between Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res, nine at Lighthorne Quarry and eight at Napton Res. By contrast autumn passage was again light, with maxima of only six at Alvecote in August, six at Fenny Compton on September 1st and nine at Priors Hardwick on 8th. The last bird was noted at Knightcote on September 29th. Worcs After the first arrivals at Bittell Reservoir (two) and Lenchwick on April 14th, birds reported during the breeding season were far fewer than in the recent years. Observations of singing males comprised maximum counts of two at Arrow Valley Lake and at Bittell Reservoirs, one at Clifton Pits, three at Grimley, one at Hanley Childe, two at Hollybed Common and Holt, one at Little Comberton, two at Longdon Marsh, singles at Monkwood Green, Ryall Pits and Sheriffs Lench, two at Stoke Bliss, one at Strensham Lagoons, three at Throckmorton Lagoons and Upton Warren, plus one at . Autumn sightings were of two at Grimley on August 25th and finally one at Castlemorton Common on September 2nd. Staffs First record of the year was at Ingestre on April 13th, then Copmere, Little Stoke and Whitemoor Haye on 15th. Territories were noted at 45 sites, many more than in recent years, with five at Blithfield and four at Middle Mayfield and Waterfall. The only site where young were seen was a family party of four at Branston Water Park. August saw ten at Doxey on 26th and four at Belvide on 13th; September produced four at Belvide on 1st, three at Black Bank on 3rd and finally singles at Doxey on 23rd and Belvide on 26th. W Mid Birds were also noted at Bumble Hole, Coombeswood, Dunstall Park, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (two singing), Saltwells LNR (three singing), Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (four singing), Sutton Park (two pairs in Longmoor Valley) and West Bromwich.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common to abundant summer resident. Long-term average: April 15th (73) to September 29th (73). 8-year average: April 10th (–5 days) to October 3rd (+4 days). A very early bird on March 29th at Coton and the last on October 3rd at Fenny Compton. Warks Counts of singing males indicate that it was slightly more abundant than last year.

162 Reported sites with six or more territory males included: Abbots Salford (nine), Brandon Marsh (25), Brandon Wood (14 in scrubby grassland on the west side), Charlecote GP (seven), Coton/Lea Marston Pools area (21), DMC Kineton (88, the second highest count since 1987), Dosthill/Kingsbury WP area (at least 20), Fenny Compton (at least 12 along 1km of the Oxford Canal), Kingsbury Oil Depot (seven), Lapworth (ten in 79 ha of arable), Morton Bagot (ten in 120 ha of mixed farmland, as in 2006), Whitacre Heath NR (six) and Whittleford Park (six). In addition, five males were heard from a bicycle along 5 km of lanes between Maxstoke and Coleshill. Apart from an early bird at Coton on March 29th, the first migrants appeared at Brandon on April 14th and Salford Priors GP on 15th, with several sites featuring on 16th. The main influx began on April 20th. Few autumn migrants lingered beyond mid September, but a late bird was on the Fenny Compton Hills on October 3rd. Worcs The first bird was reported at West Malvern on April 20th and counts of singing males during the breeding season comprised five at Arrow Valley Lake, four at Bittell Reservoir, eight at Grimley, one at Hanley Childe, four at Hollybed Common, five at Holt, one at Lower Moor, two at Ryall Pits and 12 at Throckmorton Lagoons. Unfortunately no autumn records were received. Staffs This very common and conspicuous bird was seen at over 110 sites throughout the county. It was first noted at Doxey on April 11th. Best breeding season numbers were recorded at Berry Hill (35 territories cf. 20 in 2006), Doxey (16 cf. 14 in 2006), Wetley Moor (14), and Belvide (10). Autumn migration peaked with eight at Black Bank on September 3rd, with three there on 18th and the final birds were singles at Belvide on 21st and 23rd. W Mid Birds were noted at Aldridge, Black Patch Park, Blythe Valley (four singing on May 5th), Bumble Hole, Coombeswood, Cuckoo’s Nook, Dunstall Park, Goscote Valley (at least five territories), Hampton Coppice, Lutley Wedge (nine on April 25th), Marsh Lane NR (at least six pairs), Minworth STW, Moor Green, Pedmore (up to nine in May), Reedswood Park (five on May 16th), Rotton Park, Saltwells LNR (however, no territories were confirmed during a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to one in the last census in 1983), Sandwell Valley (five singing on May 16th), Smestow Valley (25 singing on April 30th), Sparkbrook (one singing in dual carriageway central reservation), Stubbers Green, Sutton Park (“many pairs” in Longmoor Valley), Ten Acres, Titford Pools, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich (ten from May to July) and Winson Green.

Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Very rare winter visitor and rare breeder (8/10). Staffs Birds are now established on Cannock Chase where four pairs are believed to have bred. W Mid Two pairs were present at the same site as last year; breeding probably occurred, given the presence of eight birds on September 26th and 30th SHa.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent, though declining, summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the region. Long-term average: April 22nd (71) to August 27th (58). 8-year average: April 22nd (=) to August 29th (+2 days). Recent arrivals and departures have been very much in line with the long-term average. The first was seen on rather early date of April 15th at Stepping Stones on Cannock Chase; the last on August 5th at Doxey.

163 Warks A singing male in New Hare Covert, Brandon on April 22nd JMR et al., was the only report. Worcs As in 2006, the Wyre Forest sustained a reasonably healthy breeding population, with counts of singing male along the Dowles Brook comprising three on April 21st, nine on 23rd, seven on May 14th and five on June 8th. Elsewhere in the forest, two singing males were along Park Brook and one at New Parks on June 8th and a single bird was observed along Dowles Brook on July 30th. British Camp, on the Malvern Hills held the only other singing male, which held territory from April 27th–May 6th. Staffs There were a meagre 28 records from 14 sites this year, the first of which was at the Stepping Stones on April 15th. Breeding sites included Back Forest, Cannock Chase (eight), Consall CP, Coombes Valley (two), Cotton Dell (three), Dimmingsdale, Hawksmoor (two), Moneystone and possibly at Knypersley Reservoir (May 1st) and Hanchurch Woods (June 3rd, 8th). The last birds were seen at the Punchbowl on June 17th and the only migrant at Doxey on August 5th. W Mid Single birds were noted in Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley on May 4th. None were recorded during a CBC in Saltwells Wood; three territories were identified in the last census in 1983.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Another warbler which is doing well at present, with counts of five or more breeding territories at: Brandon Marsh (14), Brandon Wood (13), Chessetts Wood (11 along the Grand Union Canal), DMC Kineton (39), Fenny Compton (eight along the Oxford Canal), Morton Bagot (five), Oldberrow (six) and Whittleford Park (seven). Repeat counts suggest that the population is fairly stable. During January/February at least 18 wintering birds were reported, with individuals at: Abbots Salford, Brandon, Charlecote GP (two), Coton, Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill GP area (two), Draycote, Hams Hall/ Ladywalk area (at least five), Napton Res, Salford Priors GP (two), Wootton Pool and Woot- ton Wawen STW. Singles in song at both Alcester and Worm leighton Res on February 27th were thought to be the first incoming spring migrants, closely followed by three in song at Napton Res on March 2nd. Reports came from several more sites on March 6th–7th with the main influx commencing from Chiffchaff, Hams Hall, Steve Seal 11th. On return passage the largest counts of migrants involved 18 at Draycote on August 24th, 17 at Charlecote GP and 20 at Wormleighton Res on September 12th, 20 at Napton Hill on 13th, 21 on the Fenny Compton Hills on 15th, and 25 at Ladywalk on 16th. Good numbers remained

164 during the first week of October, including ten at Wormleighton Res on 2nd and 11 at Compton Verney on 3rd; while very small numbers continued to be recorded up to about 20th, with the latest at Haseley on 22nd. A bird at Whittleford Park on November 5th was probably an incoming winter migrant, and subsequently at least 11 wintering birds were noted. These were seen at: Alvecote (four), Brandon, Coton (two), Fisher’s Mill GP, Hampton Wood and Hams Hall/Ladywalk (two). A bird at Earlswood Lakes on October 2nd had a call reminiscent of a Yellow-browed Warbler, but was less ringing and more inflected ARD. Worcs By late March singing males were reported at Arrow Valley (12), Bittell Reservoirs (nine), Castlemorton Common (12), Chase End Hill (ten), Little Comberton, Strensham Lagoons (three), Upton Warren (five) and Throckmorton Lagoons (six). First winter period records comprised singles, other that stated at Clifton Pits, Corn Brook, Eckington, Heightington Brook, Ryall Pits and Upton-upon-Severn STW (six), while at Kempsey STW peak counts comprised five in January, six in February and three in early March, while at Lower Moor STW peak counts comprised five in January, six in February and three in early March. Singles were observed at Lower Moor during October and Arrow Valley Lake on 7th and Little Comberton on 23rd. During the second winter period, records comprised singles at Grimley and Upton-upon-Severn STW, while Lower Moor held maximum monthly counts of three in November and four in December and two frequented Kempsey STW on December 15th. Staffs In the first winter period, birds were seen at Alrewas Junction Pit, Aqualate, Barton Marina, Cuckoo Bank, Denstone, Dosthill, Drayton Bassett Pits (two), Endon, Ingestre, Madeley STW, National Memorial Arboretum, Shugborough Park, Tittesworth and Wombourne. Spring migration probably commenced on March 9th with birds at Belvide and Tixall Wide, numbers building up thereafter, the best of which were 12 at Belvide on March 25th and 27th, 14 at Tittesworth on April 1st, 13 at Belvide on 4th, 10 at Baggeridge CP on 7th, 10 in Abraham’s Valley and 12 at Knypersley Reservoir on 11th and 10 at The Clive Farm on 13th. During the breeding season the best reported sites were Belvide (13 pairs), Churnet Valley (15), Coombes Valley (10), Doxey (21) and Hanchurch Woods (nine). In the autumn, double-figure falls of passage birds were only recorded at Doxey with 13 on September 16th, 10 at Belvide on 19th and 10 at Doxey on 23rd. Sites holding wintering birds included Alvecote Pools (Pretty Pigs Pool), Belvide, Berry Hill, Cannock Chase – White House, Chasewater, Dosthill, Drakelow NR, Drayton Bassett Pits, Tixall Bridge and Westport. A pale bird, presumably a continental intergrade, was seen at Belvide on November 19th SNu. W Mid Nine territories were identified during a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to four in the last census in 1983. Five territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to last year’s 16 year low of one, but equal to the annual average. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Bentley, Black Patch Park, Bumble Hole, Chadbrook, Chadwick End, Cole Valley, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Druids Heath Golf Course, Ketley Quarry, Lutley Wedge (peak of 19 birds on April 10th), Marsh Lane NR (up to six pairs), Marston Green, Portway, Rea Valley, Reedswood Park, Robin Hood Golf Course, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (26 birds counted singing on April 5th and 23 still on 30th), The Spinney, Thimblemill Brook, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Windsor Fields. A total of 20 birds were counted in Sutton Park on September 14th. Wintering birds were seen at Saltwells LNR on January 14th, February 4th and November 4th, and at Druids Heath Golf Course on December 30th.

165 Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis Warks The bird showing strong characteristics of this race at Salford Priors GP in December 2006, was again seen on January 21st and March 11th JJB.

Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita abietinus Worcs Single birds showing characteristics of this race were observed at Kempsey STW on January 1st AWa and Lower Moor from January 1st–March 6th RAPr.

Eastern-type Chiffchaff Warks Single birds reported at Hams Hall outfall on January 15th SLC and February 14th DHu et al., at Fisher’s Mill GP on February 12th JHa, and in Packington Park on November 6th NPB and Alvecote on 22nd RLS, were all thought to be examples of P. c . abietinus, although variants and intergrades could not be ruled out. Worcs Three, including a colour-ringed bird were at Kempsey STW on January 1st and hereafter two unringed individual remained into early March, being last reported on 11th SMW, AWa et al. Another individual was noted at Lower Moor from January 1st–March 21st RAPr.

2006 Addendum W Mid One was seen well and heard singing and calling in Sandwell Valley on March 24th PMH.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One winter record. Long-term average: March 27th (73) to October 8th (73). 8-year average: March 24th (–3 days) to October 10th (+2 days). First noted on the rather late date of March 29th at Coundon Wedge and the last, rather early, on October 3rd at Bermuda. Warks The total of 53 at DMC Kineton in May continues the low counts recorded there since a 50% fall in numbers occurred in 2002. Other breeding season counts show little difference from the previous two years, and include 20 singing males at Brandon, up to 20 in the Coton/Lea Marston area, 15 in the Fisher’s Mill GP area, 15 in 72 ha of Kingsbury/ Edge Hill Woods, 16 in young forestry at Priors Marston, and ten at Whittleford Park. The first spring records were of singles at Wormleighton Res on March 31st and Brandon on April 2nd, with most beginning to appear from 8th. Peak passage was suggested by counts of at least 35 along the Oxford Canal between Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res on April 12th and 16 at Coton on 13th. The best count in the post-breeding period was 12 at Brandon on August 5th. Few were seen on autumn passage after mid September, with the latest reports from Fenny Compton on 20th and Bermuda on October 3rd. Worcs The first spring arrival was reported from Bredon Hill on April 8th, followed by two at Bittell Reservoir on 14th and one at Upton Warren on 19th. Singing males were noted at Arrow Valley Lake (two), Bittell Reservoirs (four), Castlemorton Common (two), Happy Valley/North Hill (10), Hewell Grange (two), Holt (three), Ipsley Alders (two), Throckmorton Lagoons (11), Walton Hill (eight) and the Wyre Forest during the breeding season. During August, four migrants were noted at both Gwen Finch Wetland on 24th and Bredon Hill on 27th, whilst one was at Bittell Reservoir on September 26th. Staffs The first birds were present at Katyn Memorial on April 5th, with a steady stream of arrivals thereafter. As usual, significant numbers of migrants were not reported

166 until well into April when 11 were seen at Burnt Wood on 13th, 10 at Silverdale Colliery and 20 at Chasewater on 17th, 10 at Chasewater on 24th and 15 at Hawksmoor on 29th. During the breeding season the best sites were Berry Hill (ten territories), Brocton Coppice (11), Doxey (20), Hanchurch Woods (11), Revidge (10), Tittesworth (14) and Wetley Moor (29). Apart from early accumulations of 31 at Tittesworth on August 1st and 15 at Doxey on August 12th, autumn migration was very quiet, with no more than three birds seen at any site in September, the last of which were singles at Doxey on 16th and Belvide on 23rd. A bird ringed at Tittesworth Reservoir 1U8352 on July 19th was found dead in a rat trap on October 10th at Loule, Boliqueime, Faro, Portugal (1838 km SSW and 74 days later). W Mid Just two territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to 13 in the last census in 1983. Birds were also noted at Bentley, Blythe Valley CP (four singing), Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge Park, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hampton Coppice, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (only one singing), Pedmore, Priory Fields, Reedwood Park (five on April 25th), Sandwell Valley (eleven on May 24th), Smestow Valley (eight singing in late April), Sneyd, The Spinney, Warrens Hall, West Bromwich (five birds in late August), Windsor Fields and Winson Green.

Willow Warbler X Chiffchaff Worcs Birds with mixed songs include a singing male at Upton Warren on May 13th which may have been the same bird present at the same spot in 2006, while another male was singing at Castlemorton Common on 20th. Both individuals resembled Willow Warbler in appearance.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Very common resident and winter visitor. Warks Breeding territory counts included seven in hawthorn scrub along a 1.5km stretch of the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton and three in two ha of conifer plantation at Lapworth. Three territories in 40 ha at Oldberrow was about average, while 23 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the second joint highest count there in 20 years. Outside the breeding season the largest flocks were noted in autumn, with 20 at Wormleighton Res on October 11th, 11 at Earlswood Lakes on 12th, 18 at Draycote on November 7th, 40 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on 15th and 14 at Brandon on 27th. Worcs Bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum (two broods), Lower Moor and Kinsham Lake, birds observed on Pipers Hill Common on March 24th and noted through - out the year at Arrow Valley, Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Ipsley Alders, Lion Wood, Longdon, Midsummer Hill, Salwarpe and Wyre Forest. Staffs Peak numbers in the first winter period were smaller than last year, at Belvide (12), Park Hall CP (12), Stepping Stones (15) and Wombourne STW (10). Breeding reports came from Anne’s Well Wood, Belvide (three pairs bred), Cannock Chase, The Cloud, Greenway Bank CP, Hanchurch Woods (four+), Highfield, Ingestre, Kinver Edge, Manifold Valley, Ranton Abbey, Revidge, Tittesworth (pair with young), Weston Jones and Westport (pair with young). Ten birds were seen in the second winter period at Back Forest, Foker Grange, Park Hall CP and River Sow Meadows, but the highest count was 35 at Hanchurch Woods. W Mid Seven territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood; none were recorded during the last census in 1983. A record-equalling five territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to three last year and the average of two over the last 16 years. At least one pair bred in the vicinity of Marsh Lane NR. Birds were also present

167 during the breeding season at Berkswell Park, Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Cannon Hill Park, Chadbrook Walkway, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston, Harborne, Parkway, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley, Sedgley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park (ten pairs in the Bracebridge pool area alone), Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Windsor Fields. High counts included eleven in Smestow Valley on January 8th, about ten at Knowle on November 11th and an excellent 50 at Druids Heath Golf Course on December 30th. Others were noted at Amblecote, Big Dickens Wood, Birmingham, Bourneville, Bumble Hole, Cornets End, Cotwall End Valley, Edgbaston Reservoir, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton, Netherton Reservoir, Old Swinford, Olton Mere, Packhorse Bridge NR, Reedswood Park, Sheepwash UP, Walsall Arboretum, Walsall Golf Course, Warstock, Westwood Heath, Winson Green, Wollaston and Woodgate Valley.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. Warks The only spring record was of one at Middleton Hall from March 31st–April 4th JFin et al., an unusually long-staying bird at this season. Five birds were noted in the county towards the end of the year: a male at New Fallings Coppice, Earlswood from November 2nd–December 24th ARD et al.; up to two at Alvecote from November 21st– December 31st AAr, RLS et al., with three on December 22nd AAr; and a single bird at Lighthorne Quarry on December 10th JJB. Worcs Males were observed at Dowles Brook on September 18th JRobins, at Barnt Green from December 16th–21st MIW et al. and at Blake Mill Plantation from 27th–31st, being joined by a female on the latter date many observers. Staffs The wintering bird from last year at Wombourne STW remained there until March 21st. A good influx of birds was noticed during the second winter period, com - mencing with one at Dunstall Cricket Ground on November 4th, this being joined by another the following day EPH. One was observed at Parr’s Warren on Cannock Chase on 15th WSi, two were present at Hanchurch Woods on December 1st–2nd, one of which remained until the year end NDP and the birds at Alvecote Pools, Warks were seen to stray over the border into Staffs on December 19th JHa and 31st ESC. W Mid One visited Wren’s Nest NNR on March 12th KMC, DH. One in New Fallings Coppice was noted on the West Midlands side of the border on December 24th MPG.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident. Long-term average: May 3rd (71) to September 29th (71). 8-year average: April 30th (–3 days) to September 28th (–1 day). Arrivals on schedule with the first on April 29th at Kemerton and Tittesworth. The last were seen on September 22nd at Bittell Reservoirs and Berry Hill. Warks By all accounts it was a poor year for this species, with many sites having below average numbers. Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were reported from: Baddesley Clinton, Binton, Brandon Wood, Burton Dassett, Charlecote Park, Compton Verney (two), Farnborough Park (three), Fenny Compton (four, cf. nine in 2006), Moreton Morrell, Morton Bagot, Oldberrow, Packington Park (at least three), Packwood, Sawbridge, Stretton- on-Fosse, Tredington, Wood, Warwick town centre (St Mary’s church yard) and Welford-on-Avon. Extreme dates were May 13th at Edstone and September 17th at Swift Valley CP.

168 Worcs Successful breeding confirmed at Bodenham Arboretum and at Holt, where two juveniles were noted in late July. Pairs were also noted during the breeding season at Abberton, Birchen Coppice, Dowles Brook, Grafton Lane, Kemerton and Wyre Forest. The first arrival was at Kemerton on April 29th, with further singles noted at British Camp on May 6th, Hewell Grange on 21st, Pershore Abbey, Sheriff’s Lench and Tanwood on June 1st, New Parks on 8th, Old Storridge on 11th and Kyre on 15th. Two were observed at Holt on July 29th, while August sightings comprised two at Castlemorton Common on 3rd, one at Little Comberton on 8th, three at Ryall Pits on 12th, three at Gwen Finch Wetland on 13th and five there on 20th, one at Sheriff’s Lench on 24th, with two there on 25th and five on 26th and 28th. The final bird of the year was noted at Bittell Reser - voirs on September 22nd. Staffs Starting with a single at Tittesworth on April 29th– 30th, then another at Ingestre on May 8th, spring passage only really got underway from 14th onwards, the largest count being a meagre four at Tittesworth on Spotted Flycatcher, Packington, Steve Seal May 20th. It was good to see breeding/territories reported from 42 locations (28 last year) although this is probably due to better coverage. Juveniles were seen at Apedale CP, Aqualate, Chapel Chorlton, Checkley, The Cloud, Ingestre, Knypersley Reservoir, Ladysmith Farm, Needwood House, Pipe Green, Upper Elkstone and Waterfall. Autumn numbers were low, six at Cuckoo Bank and three at Knypersley Reservoir on September 1st being the best. The last birds were seen at Aqualate and Blithfield on September 20th and Berry Hill on 22nd. W Mid Pairs nested at Berkswell and Fen End, with another noted at Queensbridge during May. Other spring records involved single birds at Dunstall Park on May 14th, Sandwell Valley on 19th, Marsh Lane NR on 20th and June 28th, and Smestow Valley on May 23rd. Return passage saw two at Dunstall Park on August 22nd and one on 23rd and 25th; one in Goscote Valley on August 22nd and two on 27th; and singles in Sandwell Valley on August 19th and September 3rd, Smestow Valley on August 6th, West Bromwich on 20th and 24th, Winson Green on 28th and Marsh Lane NR on September 4th. None were recorded during a CBC of Saltwells Wood, where one territory was noted in the last census in 1983.

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Frequent and increasing summer resident and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Staffs and Worcs. Long-term average: April 20th (61) to September 10th (42). 8-year average: April 13th (–7 days) to September 10th (=).

169 First arrival was in line with recent trends on April 12th at Guy’s Cliffe but the last was on the early date of August 10th at Throckmorton Lagoons – but then they are difficult to find once breeding has finished. Warks Single males were in gardens at Guy’s Cliffe on April 12th CRS, MCS and in Birchmoor on 17th (in song) RLS, at Grendon also on 17th SMH et al., and at Brandon on 22nd BMCG. Worcs Noted during the breeding season in the Wyre Forest with one on April 21st, two females on April 23rd, singing males along Dowles Brook and Park Brook on June 8th and five in the Wyre on 11th, while a few pairs nested successfully on the southern Malvern Hills. A single autumn passage bird was observed at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 10th. Staffs Pied Flycatchers were found at 16 actual or potential breeding sites, after a first record from Yarnfield on April 19th. The only other migrant was seen at Brown Edge Farm on May 3rd. Coombes and Churnet Valley RSPB held the majority of breeding pairs, 42 this year compared with 41 in 2006. Elsewhere, records came from Back Forest Farm (singing male), Baggeridge CP (singing male), Barleighford (pair), Bearda (several), Biddulph Grange (singing male), Cannock Chase (two pairs), Consall CP, Deep Hayes CP (singing male), Dimmingsdale (42 chicks ringed from probably 5-7 pairs), Greenway Bank CP/Knypersley Reservoir (two singing males), Hawksmoor (one), Ousley Cross (one female), Gig Hall (two females) and Tittesworth (one pair). There was no autumn passage, perhaps the dire summer weather accounting for this, the last bird being recorded at Coombes Valley RSPB on June 24th. W Mid Single birds were noted at Druids Heath on April 13th and Smestow Valley on 19th.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common to very common resident. Warks Among the few breeding notices received were at least seven pairs in Brandon Wood and three at Lighthorne Quarry. 34 counted across DMC Kineton in May was the best total there since 1998. Outside the breeding season the largest counts were of 40 in Hampton Wood on November 11th and 60 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on 15th. Flocks of around 20-30 were also noted at: Alveston, Brandon, Charlecote GP, Compton Verney, Copt Green, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Fisher’s Mill GP, Guy’s Cliffe, Haseley, Ilmington Downs, Kingsbury, Lighthorne Quarry, Newbold Revel, Northend, Salford Priors GP, Upper Shuckburgh, Wasperton and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Two pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum and noted throughout the year at Arrow Valley and a single group of 26 were noted at Lower Moor on October 2nd and 40 at Salwarpe on December 4th. Staffs Six pairs bred at Belvide and Doxey. Larger counts comprised 50 at Greenway Bank CP on January 3rd, 60 at Aqualate on 23rd, 37 at West End (Stoke) on July 10th, 40 at Chasewater on October 7th, 41 at Doxey on November 11th and 40 at River Sow Meadows on December 1st. W Mid Ten territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood; none were recorded during the last census in 1983. A record-equalling five territories were recognized on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to three last year and the average of two over the last 16 years. At least four pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Amblecote, Birmingham, Black Patch Park, Bumble Hole,

170 Chadbrook Walkway, Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Coombeswood, Cryfield Lake, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Kingswinford, Pedmore, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Thimblemill Brook, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Winterbourne. High counts included 20 at Ladywood on February 7th, 19 at Coundon Wedge on September 15th and December 16th, 20 at Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve on October 22nd, 30 at West Bromwich on November 7th.

Marsh Tit Poecile palustris Fairly common resident. Warks In total it was reported from 54 sites across central and southern Warwickshire during the year, the same total as 2006, suggesting that at least at present there is some stability in the population. Breeding pairs were located at: Binton, Brandon Wood (six), Broadwells Wood, Compton Verney (four), Earlswood, Farnborough Park (three), Fenny Compton (two), Lower Clopton (three in Park Wood), Oakley Wood, Ryton Wood (several), Shuckburgh Hills (five), Wappenbury Wood (several), Wolverton and Worm - leighton Res (three). Outside the breeding season the best counts were of 14 in Nursery Wood (Warwick Castle Park) on November 14th and 11 in Wellesbourne Wood on 19th. More reports came from the north and north-east than usual, where in recent years it has been very scarce. Ladywalk had most sightings, with up to two regularly at the feeders from September 12th–November 27th, and a maximum of four on November 4th. Song was heard there during the latter month. Other reports from this end of the county included singles in Hartshill Hayes on March 1st and Newbold Revel on September 25th, with two in Close Wood on November 19th. Worcs On Bredon Hill several pairs bred along the northern escarpment, one pair fledged seven young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum and noted throughout the year in the Wyre Forest. Singles were observed at Kingswood on February 2nd and at Bittell Reservoir (a locality rarity) from 14th–March 24th and at Pipers Hill Common on the latter date. Three males were singing at Stoke Bliss on May 10th, the Bittell bird was noted again on July 9th and one was reported from Broadway on September 4th. During December, two were noted at Yeald Wood on 15th, two at Barnt Green on 20th and 21st, while on was at Hollybush Quarry on 27th. Staffs For the first time in many years, a pair bred at Belvide and raised two young. Three pairs were thought to have bred at Blithfield where one was seen feeding young. Territorial/singing birds were also present at Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Bateswood, Consall CP, Coombes Valley, Ecton, Hamps Valley, Hollybush Lake, Ilam, Lawnhead, Needwood House, Penn Common, Ranton Abbey, Thor’s Cave, Wettonmill and Yoxall Park. Away from the breeding sites, birds in January were seen at Chasewater, Croxall NR, Dunstall Park, Eland Brook, Gailey, Hall Dale (three), Himley, Maniford Way, Roost Hill and Wolseley Bridge. In the second winter period, records came from Anslow, Key Wood (three), Knypersley Reservoir, Oldacre Valley, Roost Hill, Rudyard Lake, Swainsley, Tittesworth and Waterfall. W Mid Birds were present in the breeding season in Sandwell Valley, and one or two were occasionally seen at Clayhanger from April 21st to July 21st. At Marsh Lane NR, the bird from last year was noted until March, with perhaps the same seen again in August and November. Two to four birds were reported at Harborne from November 4th to December 23rd, with one at Wren’s Nest NNR on December 22nd.

171 Willow Tit Poecile montana Fairly common resident but declining in some areas. Warks A further sharp decline was noticeable, with records coming from just 29 sites compared to 40 in 2006. Breeding pairs were reported from just seven sites: Brandon, Corley Moor, Fenny Compton (four), Kingsbury (two), Ladywalk, Swift Valley CP and Wormleighton Res (three). Further pairs were noted in the breeding season at: Close Wood, Coton, Lea Marston, Middleton, Upper Shuckburgh, Whitacre Heath NR and Wolvey; while out of season reports (mainly of singles) came from: Alvecote, Avon Dassett, Coombe Abbey, Draycote, Farnborough, Greys Mallory, Hartshill Hayes, Lower Radbourn, Napton Hill, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Southam, Stoneton, Ufton Fields and Weddington. Worcs The single bird first noted at Grimley in November 2006 remained until February 7th many observers, Other records comprised two at Cofton Richards Farm on February 7th AWa, one in the Wyre Forest along Dowles Brook on March 5th SPay, one at Bittell Reservoirs on 19th SPay, a male singing at Cofton Richards Farm on April 6th and May 6th AWa, one at Bittell Reservoirs on July 19th REH, four, again at Bittell on August 6th SPay and one at Cofton Richards Farm on September 20th, AWa. Such is the scarcity of this species in the county it is worth noting that a full written description, including details on how the more relatively numerous Marsh Tit was eliminated, is now required for acceptance. Staffs Willow Tit continues to be more widespread than Marsh Tit. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide (two-three), Chasewater, Cuckoo Bank/Gentleshaw Common (six pairs, one with fledged young), Doxey, Musden Wood and Westport Lake (two). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Aqualate, Bateswood, Beech, Blithfield, Cannock Chase – Brocton area (two pairs), Coombes Valley, Croxall NR, Draycott-in-the-Clay, Drayton Bassett Pits, Ecton, Gailey, Highgate Common, Kinver Edge, Knypersley (two pairs), Little Stoke, Meir, Park Hall CP (three pairs), Ranton, River Sow Meadows, Rudyard Lake, Silverdale Colliery and Tixall Bridge. In the first winter period, other than the sites above, birds were seen at Apedale CP, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Baggeridge CP, Branston WP, Burnt Wood (three), Burton-on-Trent, Downs Banks (four), Hole Valley (three), Leyfields, Oakpasture NR, Tittesworth, Weston Jones and Wolseley Bridge. In the second winter period records came from Alrewas, Burton-on-Trent, Clay Mill, Ecton, Ellenhall, Furnace Grange, Harpers Marsh, Leawood, Leyfields, Madeley STW, Norbury Park, Tittesworth, Uttoxeter Quarry and Weston Jones. W Mid The status in Smestow Valley “seemed to be stable”. Birds were also present in the breeding season in Goscote Valley (four birds on June 4th), Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot, Saltwells LNR (at least one pair bred) and Sandwell Valley, and were otherwise noted in Cotwall End Valley and Fens Pools.

Coal Tit Periparus ater Common to very common resident and irruptive winter visitor. Warks Very few records continue to be submitted for this common species, making population changes difficult to detect. The only breeding season records of note were of four singing males located in the deciduous Ryton Wood in April and 11 counted in conifer plantations at DMC Kineton in May. The best winter count was only 12 in Wellesbourne Wood on November 19th. Worcs Breeding pairs were noted at Bredon Hill, Kinsham Lake, Shrawley Wood, Wood Norton and Wyre Forest, while four pairs bred successfully in nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, fledging 25 young. Noted regularly at Arrow Valley, Beacon Wood, Bittell Reservoirs, Hewell Grange and Malvern Link.

172 Staffs Double-figure counts came from Bishop’s Wood (12) on October 21st, Hanchurch Woods (20) in December and Westport Lake (10) on July 7th. W Mid Six territories were noted in a CBC in Saltwells Wood; none were recorded in the last census in 1983. Four territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the most since monitoring began in 1992, higher than last year’s three and the annual average of two. Birds were also present in the breeding season in Coundon Wedge, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Tilehouse Green, Warley Woods, West Bromwich, Windsor Fields and Winterbourne. Others were noted at Aldridge, Allesley, Berks well, Bradmore, Cotwall End Valley, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Netherton, Old Park, Penn, Rednal, Reedswood Park, Sedgley, Sutton Park, Tidbury Green, Walsall, Warstock, Westwood Heath and Wordsley.

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Abundant resident. Warks 20 pairs occupying nest boxes at Brandon fledged 124 young, while 13 pairs at Ladywalk reared 75 young, with brood sizes slightly down from 2006. Census work at Morton Bagot showed a drop to 15 territories in 120 ha from 21 in 2006, probably as a result of poor breeding success in 2006 due to the wet weather. Other farmland territory counts included 18 in 79 ha at Lapworth and 15 in 40 ha (cf. 17 in 2005-6) at Oldberrow. The total of 80 recorded at DMC Kineton in May was the highest in 20 years of counts and twice the average. Outside the breeding season parties or counts of around 20-35 were very widely reported, with the largest comprising 40 at Spernall on February 1st, 45 in Cubbington Woods on March 3rd, and 58 at Earlswood Lakes on December 22nd. Worcs Nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum held 18 broods and 101 young were fledged, while successful breeding was confirmed at Grimley. Staffs 25-30 pairs bred at Belvide and 18 at Doxey (cf. 13 in 2006, 10 in 2005). Larger flocks comprised 33 at Doxey on January 21st, 50 at West End (Stoke) on August 16th, 24 at Endon on November 11th, 25 at Baggeridge CP on 25th and 39 at Hanchurch Woods on December 30th. W Mid A CBC of Saltwells Wood revealed 39 territories, compared to 13 in the last census in 1983. On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 19 territories were recorded, compared to 13 last year and the average of 17 over the last 16 years. About 13 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. In Coundon Wedge, a maximum of 56 birds were counted during late winter, which compares favourably with highs of 55 in the same period last year and 54 in 2005. Totals of 24 birds were counted at Blythe Valley CP on February 19th and 35 in Cotwall End Valley on November 10th.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks This species was rather more successful than the last at exploiting nest box schemes at both Brandon and Ladywalk reserves. At Brandon, 23 pairs fledged 141 young from boxes, while at Ladywalk 22 pairs fledged 113 young. Farmland territory counts produced 11 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot, 13 in 79 ha at Lapworth and nine in 40 ha at Oldberrow; both the first and last showing a slight reduction compared to 2006. In contrast the figure of 55 logged at DMC Kineton in May was well above average, and only bettered by 57 in 2002. Outside the breeding season the largest counts during the first quarter included a flock of 20 in Farnborough Park on January 3rd, 40 feeding in leaf litter under a group of yews at Coombe Abbey on 30th, 27 at Brandon on February 4th, 24 at Whitacre

173 Heath NR on 14th and 30 in Cubbington Woods on March 3rd. Towards the end of the year there were counts of 30 at Brandon on December 9th, 22 at Earlswood Lakes on 22nd and 25 at Whitacre Heath NR on 31st. Worcs Ten nest boxes were occupied at Bodenham Arboretum, with 60 young fledged. The only other records comprised 75 at Chase End Hill on January 1st and 17 singing males were counted at arrow Valley Lake on March 23rd. Staffs 15-20 pairs bred at Belvide and 14 at Doxey (an increase from nine in the past two years). There were six flocks reported of 20 or more birds last year, this year only one, perhaps an indication of poor breeding. The largest flocks were 15 at Doxey on January 21st, 20 at Baggeridge CP on November 18th and 16 at Hanchurch Woods on December 30th. W Mid A total of 55 territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to eight in the last census in 1983. On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 29 territories were recorded, compared to 30 last year and the average of 22 over the last 16 years. About 13 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. High counts included 25 plus at Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve feeding station in January and over 20 in October and November, 35 in Coundon Wedge on March 24th and 30 in Cotwall End Valley on November 10th.

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common to common resident. Warks Widespread and locally common, with territory counts including nine in the Brandon Wood/Piles Coppice area, nine in the Compton Verney area, four in Farnborough Park, three in Park Wood (Lower Clopton), three in Lapworth Park and five at Ryton Wood. Worcs Breeding pairs were noted at Bodenham Arboretum (Four nest box pairs fledged 22 young), Bredon Hill (three), Kemerton (two) and Wood Norton (two). Other sightings comprised, one at Pipers Hill Common on March 24th, one at Castlemorton Common on August 3rd, two at Hewell Grange Lake on October 11th, one at Knowles Coppice on 21st and two at Coombegreen Common on December 31st, plus noted throughout the year at Arrow Valley, Bittell Reservoirs, Chase End Hill (six on January 1st), Grimley, Hewell Grange, Midsummer Hill and Wyre Forest. Staffs Four pairs bred at Belvide (three in 2006, one in 2000-2005), three-four at Pipe Green and at least one at Baggeridge CP, Greenway Bank CP, Ingestre and Tittesworth. Three pairs were recorded at Kettlebrook Lakes late May. Outside the breeding season, eight at Hanchurch Woods and Ousley Cross and six at Aqualate were the highest counts at other sites. W Mid Eight territories were noted in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to two in the last census in 1983. Two territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to one last year. Birds were also recorded during the breeding season at Aldridge, Chadbrook, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Edgbaston Reservoir, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Sutton Park, Tettenhall, Walsall Arboretum, Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Wightwick. Also noted in Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Brueton Park, Cole Valley, Cornets End, Cotwall End Valley, Dunstall Park, Haden Hill Park, Hampton-in-Arden, Harborne, Kings Heath Park, Knowle, The Leasowes, Pedmore, Priory Park, Sandwell Valley, Tidbury Green, Walsall, West Park, Westwood Heath, Windsor Fields and Wrens Nest NNR. A high count of six birds was made in Coundon Wedge on September 15th.

174 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks A total of 14 territories was located in the Brandon Wood/Piles Coppice area and at least ten at Oakley Wood. Four territories were plotted in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot, compared to the usual one or two; while four were also present in 79 ha at Lapworth. Winter counts included six together in one tree at Farnborough Park on January 13th, six singing males located at Compton Verney on February 19th and six more singing in woodland at Spernall Park on March 10th, while eight were counted in Wellesbourne Wood on November 19th. Full song was heard at Edge Hill on October 30th and Wormleighton Res on December 5th, both of which were unusual dates. Worcs One pair bred successfully in a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum and noted through- out the year at Arrow Valley, Bittell Reservoirs, Bredon Hill, Chase End Hill, Grimley, Hewell Grange, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Wood Norton and Wyre Forest. Two were at Pipers Hill Treecreeper, Westport, Dave Kelsall Common on March 24th. Staffs Four-five pairs bred at Belvide, two at Doxey and one at Westport. Five at Back Forest, Greenway Bank and Tittesworth were the highest counts, otherwise one to four birds were reported from 61 other sites throughout the county. W Mid Six territories were noted in a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to one in the last census in 1983. Two territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to one last year. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Blythe Valley CP, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (up to three pairs), Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and West Bromwich. Also noted at Berkswell, Bournville, Cornets End, Cotwall End Valley, Dorridge, Knowle, Olton Mere, Warley Woods and Woodgate Valley.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Worcs One at Defford Airfield on October 16th was the first county record since 2005 BHa. Staffs After a blank first winter period, the Great Grey Shrike, Cannock Chase, second provided several sightings, the first of Bill Goldstraw

175 which was a day visitor to Blithfield on October 5th GJM. The next was seen in the Sherbrook Valley on October 19th and remained until the year end RCB, closely followed by another at Revidge on 20th KPa. This bird roamed the North Staffs Moors quite widely, being seen at Swallow Moss, Warslow and Lower Elkstone until November 4th. However it probably remained until the year end since it was picked up again in 2008.

Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius Fairly common to common resident. Warks Eight pairs were estimated to be breeding in the Brandon Wood/Piles Coppice area. One observer noticed a pronounced increase in the breeding population around Loxley this year. Amongst the larger reported counts were seven at Hartshill Hayes on March 14th, six at Whitacre Heath NR on 21st, 13 at Brandon on April 15th, and in the autumn, nine at Earlswood Lakes on October 12th and 13 again at Brandon on 13th. Worcs Noted throughout the year at Castlemorton Common and Grimley. Staffs The only confirmed breeding of this widespread bird was five juveniles at Horton on July 24th. Two pairs probably bred at Belvide as did three at Knypersley. The highest count was eight at Hanchurch Woods on November 4th with seven at Keele University in February, Greenway Bank in April and Chasewater in September. A very rare record of visible migration was noted when three flew over high and SW at Black Bank on October 2nd. W Mid Nine territories were noted during a CBC of Saltwells Wood – a flock of at least 15 birds engaged in courtship display on March 24th – no territories were confirmed in the last census in 1983. One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Alcester Lane’s End, Aldridge, Allesley, Bickenhill, Bird Town, Castle Bromwich, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Druids Heath Golf Course, Harborne, Kingswinford, Marsh Lane NR, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley (at least two pairs), Warley Woods, West Bromwich and Winterbourne. Others were noted at Ackers, Acocks Green, Bartley Reser - voir, Berkswell, Blackheath, Blythe Valley CP, Bournville, Brueton Park, Coombeswood, Cornets End, Cotwall End Valley, Dunstall Park (nine seen on March 15th), Edgbaston, Fens Pools, Hawne Park, Knowle, The Leasowes, Lightwoods Park, Mary Stevens Park, Minworth STW, Moseley Park, Netherton, Old Swinford, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Pooles Lane, Reedswood Park, Sheepwash UP, Sneyd, Sutton Park (12 birds counted on October 27th), Tidbury Green, Tilehouse Green, Walsall Golf Course, Westwood Heath, Winson Green, Wollaston, Woodgate Valley and Wordsley.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Warks Most reports referred to fairly small parties, with the largest assemblies notified comprising 27 at Oaks Farm, Kenilworth on February 6th and 20 at Brandon on March 1st. Song was heard at Knightcote on February 3rd, which took the form of a continuous gurgle interspersed with typical Magpie chatter. Worcs A pair in Malvern Link was observed carrying nesting material on January 12th and 19th, 30 and 31 were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 27th and February 11th respectively, while 90 roosted in willows at Bittell Reservoirs on 25th. Staffs Three to four pairs bred at Belvide and 10 at Doxey (as in 2006, six in 2005). Large flocks throughout the year at Berry Hill peaked at 59 on November 30th and at Doxey with 48 on September 12th.

176 W Mid Eleven territories were identified from a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to one in the last census in 1983. Six territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to five last year and the average of seven over the last 16 years. High counts included 115 birds in Saltwells Wood on February 13th, 41 in Coundon Wedge on March 3rd, 47 at Kingswinford on April 4th, 53 at West Bromwich on June 22nd and 50 on September 28th, 45 in Cotwall End Valley on November 10th and 62 at Olton Mere on 29th and 110 on December 24th. A leucistic bird was seen at The Leasowes on January 5th, with two at nearby Coombeswood on March 31st.

Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks 11 nests located in 40 ha of pasture fields and garden at Oldberrow, compared to nine in 2006. The largest counts during the year involved 800 feeding on pasture at Upper Shuckburgh on March 7th (which included a bird with white wings), 345 at Charlecote GP on September 1st, 400 flying to roost over Toft Farm Lakes on October 7th and 500 at Morton Bagot on 28th. Flocks of around 150-300 were also reported at Bearley, Chesterton, Dunnington, Edstone, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Ilmington Downs, Knightcote, Salford Priors GP, Ullenhall, Umberslade and Wootton Wawen. Worcs A pair fledged five young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum and notable flocks comprised 500 at Kinsham Lake on July 2nd, 86 at Bittell Reservoir on November 11th, 160 at Evesham on 14th and 300 at Kinsham Lake on December 4th. Staffs Five-ten pairs bred at Belvide, singles at Norbroom Marsh and Weston Jones and three at Whitmore. The regular roost at River Sow Meadows peaked at 750 on June 26th with over 500 there until the end of August. 550 were counted in January too. 300 roosted at Great Gate (Cheadle) on October 10th and 400 fed at Whitmore Bent Lane on February 18th. Three birds showing strong characteristics of subspecies soemmeringii were identified in a wintering flock below the dam at Belvide on December 29th and remained into 2008 SNu. These birds are normally found in northern Europe but there was an influx nationally during the second winter period. W Mid One territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year. One territory was also recorded during a CBC in Saltwells Wood; none were identified in the last census in 1983. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Aldridge, Chadwick End, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Dudley Wood, Edgbaston Reser - voir, Druids Heath Golf Course, Marsh Lane NR, Minworth STW, Netherton, Pedmore, Portway, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Walsall Arboretum and West Bromwich. Over 450 birds emerged from the corvid roost at Wightwick on January 6th, whilst pre-roost gatherings at Olton Mere included 220 birds on November 29th and 320 on December 24th. Other high counts included 150 plus at Dunstall Park on January 10th and some 120 on August 15th, 120 at West Bromwich on February 15th, 77 at Blythe Valley CP on 19th, 75 at Marsh Lane NR during March, 34 at Wollaston on November 23rd, 70 at Berkswell on December 26th and 40 at Coundon Wedge on 31st.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Very common or abundant resident. Warks Among the few rookery counts submitted were 51 nests in Burton Old Covert (Burton Dassett), 30 at Maxstoke, at least 190 in Corn Ground Spinney, Wormleighton (cf.

177 130 in 2005), and 37 at Wormleighton Res (cf. 21 in 2006 when it was founded). Flock size was rather down compared with last year; and the largest reported assemblies comprised only 350 at Gaydon on January 31st, 460 at Upper Shuckburgh on March 7th, 350 at Worm - leighton on 31st, and 450 at Knightcote on September 29th. Flocks of around 2-300 were recorded from: Charlecote, Chesterton, Combrook, Drayton, Dunnington, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Ilmington Downs, Lower Clopton, Morton Bagot, Priors Hardwick, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Snitterfield and Wootton Wawen. Worcs 21 nests were counted at Hewell Grange on April 16th and 250 were noted at Clevelode on October 14th. Staffs Rookery counts this year (nests in brackets) came from Belvide (20), Caltonmoor (11), Cart Low (five), Croxall NR (23), Field House Farm (11), Gnosall (18), Haughton (25), Ilam (36+20), Little Wyrley (19 plus a large rookery at Little Wyrley Hall), Lower Cowley (six), Norbury (23), Park Banks (14), Parkgate (46), Swinscoe Bank (24), Throwley Hall (18), Throwleymoor Farm (14), Walk Farm (six), Weaver Farm (11) and Whitmore (48). The larger counts include 350 at Stableford in February, 300 at Derrington in June, 270 at Derrington in August, 200 at Stableford in October, 108 at Endon in November and 100 at Sandon Park in December. W Mid The only details received of occupied rookeries were at Aldridge (eleven and 13 nests at two sites by the airfield), Dunstall Park (ten nests), Milburn Grange and Smestow Valley. High counts included 60 birds at Chadwick End on June 6th, 30 in Coundon Wedge on August 25th, Dudley Wood on November 8th and Marsh Lane NR on 10th and December 28th, and 40 at Minworth STW on November 12th. Smaller numbers were noted at Aldridge, Foxcote, Kingswinford, Pedmore, Portway, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sceptre Park, West Bromwich and Winterbourne.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone Abundant resident. Warks Reported flock sizes were well down this year, although no reports came from landfill areas where substantial accumulations are standard all year. Amongst the larger counts were 65 at Studley on April 19th, 57 in stubble by Bunkers Hill Wood on August 15th, 70 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th, 100 at Ilmington Downs on 27th, 55 at Morton Bagot on November 2nd, 78 at Umberslade on 9th, 60 at Knightcote on 10th and 60 in Warwick Castle Park on 15th. Worcs Counts received comprised 55 on Worcestershire Beacon on April 10th, 50 at Bittell Reservoir on October 3rd and 53 at Bittell Reservoir on November 11th. Staffs Ten pairs probably bred at Belvide and four at Doxey. Between 100-150 were present at River Sow Meadow in August and September but the largest count there was 350 on December 15th. Other large flocks were 120 at Black Bank in March, 110 roosting at Swineholes Wood in April and 115 at Cuckoo Bank in September. An albino bird was present at Tittesworth on October 21st. W Mid Five territories were recorded during a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to one in the last census in 1983. Three territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year and the average over the last 16 years. Counts elsewhere included 50 at Dunstall Park on January 23rd and Pedmore on March 9th, 170 at Olton Mere on November 29th and 140 on December 24th, and 50 at Powell’s Pool (Sutton Park) on 30th. One at The Dingles (Cole Valley) on March 10th was heard to mimic the drumming of a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.

178 Common Raven Corvus corax Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, resident. Warks Now almost a familiar sight in much of the south of the county north to Dunsmore Heath, with increasing sightings further north; including for the first time at Alvecote where one was present from April-June. The paucity of reported breeding pairs however belies its true status as many use private sites away from popular birding locations. Two out of three nests built in northern quarries unfortunately fell victim to egg collectors, but tree-nesting birds were more successful with reports from: Avon Dassett, Coombe, Dunchurch, Edstone, Long Itchington, Packington, Preston-on-Stour, Priors Hardwick, Shuckburgh, Spernall, Studley, Upton and Warwick. Most reports were of singles, pairs or groups of up to seven; but an estimated 15-18 were assembling on Crown Hill, Radford Semele in windy weather on January 20th MJSan, a county record. Worcs Breeding pairs noted at Bittell Reservoir, Kyre (two young), Wood Norton where three juveniles were seen in the company of two adults in June, while observations during the breeding season came from Abberton (four), Barnett Brook, (two), Bredon’s Hardwick (two), Broadway (two), Churchill, Clifton Pits, Deerfold Wood (two), Devils’ Spittleful (two) Hartlebury Common, Hewell Grange (two) Kyre Pool, Martley, Pershore (four), Shenstone, Stoke Bliss (five) Suckley, Suckley Hills (five) Trimpley Reservoir and Walton Hill. Peak numbers often occur along the Malvern Hills range and this was demonstrated by counts of 17 on Worcestershire Beacon and 12 on North Hill on August 26th, 14 on North Hill on September 7th and an impressive 33 on Table Hill on October 14th. Small numbers were seen throughout the year at Barnt Green, Bredon Hill (four), British Camp, Castlemorton Common, Chase End Hill, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Holt, Hollybed Common, Kinsham Lake, Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Rous Lench, Shrawley Wood, Stoke Bliss, Stoke Hill, Throck morton Lagoon, Westwood Pool and Wyre Forest. Sighting in January comprised one at Bittell Reservoir on 1st, two at Brough - ton Hackett on 9th, one at Caunsall on 12th, four at Spetchley Park on 27th and one at Clerkenleap on 28th. During the Autumn and second winter period, records away from the Malvern Hills comprised one at Holt on August 16th, one at Hagley on 20th, two at Hanbury Church and one at Madres field on 24th, five at Ryall Pits on 26th, four over Upton Warren on September 12th, three over Evesham on 18th, one at Bittell on October 23rd, two at Evesham and one at Hanbury Park on 25th, two at Kempsey on 29th, one at Upper Arley on December 22nd and two at Upton-upon-Severn STW on 29th. Staffs 27-29 breeding locations were identi fied this year (14-15 in 2006) but the only double-figure count was 28 in two flocks over Swallow Moss on April 6th. The map printed in the 2006 report was incorrect and actually showed Grasshopper Warbler distribution. The accompanying map shows the continued expansion into the south-east of the county over the past two years, the dots showing sightings in 2006-2007.

179 W Mid A pair fledged two young from a nest five kilometres west of Wolverhampton and less than ten metres into Staffordshire; representing the first breeding attempt in the area, the birds were regularly seen in Smestow Valley during the early part of the year. One or two birds were recorded on 18 occasions at Marsh Lane NR (cf. 33 in 2006 and 29 in 2005). Other sightings concerned one over Coundon Wedge on January 13th, one at Dunstall Park on 15th and five on November 28th, one over Wootton Green on February 15th, one in Lutley Wedge on March 26th and 30th, and two on December 22nd, singles over Kingstanding on March 27th, Acocks Green on April 7th, Kingswinford on 8th, Hockley Heath on May 1st and Major’s Green on 23rd, two at Blythe Valley CP on July 23rd and one on October 14th, one over Old Swinford on September 25th, three over Reedswood Park on October 4th, two over Netherton Hill on 8th, 29th and November 16th, and one at Sutton Park on October 23rd. At Dorridge, one on November 2nd was followed by two on 9th, one on 10th–11th, two on 21st and one on December 2nd.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Four nests in 40 ha of farmland and garden at Oldberrow was the same as in 2006. No other relevant breeding information was received. Wintering numbers appeared to be substantially higher at both ends of the year than for some time, with one very large roost developing in the vicinity of the old GEC factory site in Rugby. Here the roost was thought to have begun about February 20th, before increasing to 30000 on March 7th and a peak of 50000 on 10th–11th. Numbers had then declined to 20000 by March 26th and 5000 at the end of the month, with 2500 still using it on April 4th but none next day AWHW. 8-10000 were back here in December. Other roosts were also active with several thousand in a spinney at Lighthorne at both ends of the year, while Brandon held up to 15,000 roosting in the Newlands reedbed from late October to mid December. By comparison Alvecote only had small numbers, but 4000 counted in fields there on January 28th suggests that the main roost had moved to another site in the area. Apart from roosts feeding flocks also appeared to be larger, and some of the larger counts included 1400 at Fenny Compton on January 5th, 3000 at Radway on February 22nd, 2000 at Priors Hardwick on 28th, 7000 in a newly cultivated field at Birchmoor on September 21st and 1000 at Knightcote on November 10th. A leucistic juvenile was reported at Wootton Pool on June 24th. Worcs A pair fledged five young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum. 1,000+ were noted at Longdon Marsh on January 13th, 400 were in pasture at Stoke Bliss on February 18th and post-breeding flocks comprised 2,000 juveniles at Lower Moor on July 27th, while counts at Throckmorton Tip were of 1,000 on July 25th, 3,000 on November 15th, 2,500 on December 3rd and 2,800 on 31st. Other notable flocks contained 500 at Clevelode on October 14th, 2,000 roosted at Gwen Finch Wetland on October 24th, 220 at Abberton on 28th and 2,000 roosted at Kinsham Lake on November 3rd. Roost counts made at Upton Warren during November comprised 250 on 7th, 500 on 14th rising to 1,500 on 21st. Staffs In the first winter period, the Aqualate roost was estimated to be 80,000-100000 and a new major roost was discovered at Stone Business Park where estimates ranged from 75000-350000. Up to 2000 roosted at Belvide on January 2nd while 4000 flying over Doxey on February 26th were probably heading to the Stone roost. In January there were 2000 at Blithfield and 1000 at Bottom House; in February 1500 at Stockley Vale. A count of 10000 birds heading NE over Belvide on March 6th could either have been a sign of return migration or birds going to roost. March also saw 1000 birds at Blithfield, 850 at Keele University and 2000 at Round Knowl Farm. The only large post breeding flocks of

180 up to 200 birds were seen at Belvide, Blake Hall Fishery, Penn Common and Whitmore Bent Lane. Up to 1200 roosted on an island at Chasewater in June. In August and September, the largest flocks were 400 at Berry Hill, 300 at Barton GP and 200 at Weston Jones and West - port. Visible migration was observed between October 14th– 23rd, and early morning counts in the Potteries between November 14th and 20th could be further winter migrants but were probably roost dispersals. In the second winter period, the Aqua- Starlings, Stone Business Park, Dave Emley late roost built to 100000 by November 11th, a new roost of 5000-10000 birds used the reedbeds at Doxey, 75000- 100000 roosted near Blackbrook Bird World at Lound Farm and 2000 roosted at Shebdon. Treble-figure counts in November consisted of 5000 at Croxden Quarry, 1000 at River Dove, Fauld and 1000 at Tittesworth. Interestingly the roost at Stone Business Park did not materialise again. W Mid None were recorded breeding in a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to 19 territories in the last census in 1983. About 50 birds, including young, were noted in Nechells, a regular location. High counts included over 400 birds roosting in the reedbed at Marsh Lane NR during January and 200 during October, 150 at West Bromwich on January 11th and February 12th, 300 at Dunstall Park on January 18th, 200 on February 28th and 582 on August 19th, 135 in Coundon Wedge on May 19th, 116 at Beacon School on October 27th and 200 at Duddeston railway station on November 8th. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Some local recovery in the north is indicated after the widespread declines caused by the Trichomoniasis virus last year. A flock of 150 feeding in a field near the River Blythe at Coleshill on August 16th were 90% juvenile/female types suggesting a good breeding season. Other reported flocks were small by comparison, with counts of 30-50 reported at: Dunchurch, Dunnington, Fenny Compton, Lillington, Marlcliff, Stretton-under-Fosse and Upper Shuckburgh. A mainly white male bird which frequented a pub garden by Tuttle Hill Quarry, Nuneaton during October was initially reported as a Snow Bunting! Worcs Three broods fledged 14 young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum. Maximum counts made in a Malvern Link garden comprised 20 in January, 15 in April and 30 in July, whilst 20 were at Stoke Pound on November 17th. Staffs Monthly maxima for selected sites: P=present J F M A M J J A S O N D Alrewas 40 9 30 12 12 – 12 18 8 6 48 – Astonfields B. Lakes203415p–p–––––12 Berry Hill 32 p 110 32 34 44 83 110 p 11 148 p Burton-on-Trent 26 24 18 16 18 34 11 43 17 18 57 28

181 P=present J F M A M J J A S O N D Doxey 25 1 8 22 p 25 p 15 16 15 57 14 River Sow Meadows 10 12 pppppp22p–10 Weston Jones 42232–1p114–4 Westport –2–45–––14––1 Whitmore Bent Lane 6–p–p1010425–610 Records of this declining species were received from 104 sites (cf. 61 in 2006, 76 in 2005), but this is probably more a reflection of increased record keeping than a real increase in numbers. Most of the regularly counted sites above appeared to have retained their flock sizes, but greater coverage of Berry Hill revealed many additional flocks in the housing estates bordering the site. Two leucistic birds were seen at Brereton on March 3rd. Other large flocks comprised 115 at Doxey on October 7th, 30 at Blithfield (annual average); in 46 at Denstone and 30 at Stafford Common in January; 35 at Bloreheath in February; 25 at Norbroom Marsh and 30 at The Clive Farm in April; 25 at Biddulph Valley in June; 27 at Denstone in July and 33 at Leawood in August. W Mid Five territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to three last year and the average of four over the last 16 years. High counts included 40 in an Acocks Green garden during January and February, 35 at Druids Heath on May 3rd, 43 at Portway on June 10th, 35 at Reedswood Park on 27th and 40 at West Bromwich August 17th and a Kingswinford garden on December 12th. Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common, though declining, resident. Warks This species now appears to be breeding in small numbers in most parts of rural Warwickshire, with thinning in density apparent in some strongholds in the south-east and east as the spread continues. Few breeding counts were received however, with the better sized colonies including 25 pairs at Fenny Compton (cf. 35 in 2006), 15-20 at Morton Bagot, only nine at Priors Hardwick (cf. 20 in 2006) and eight at Upper Shuckburgh. At Weddington in the outer suburbs of Nuneaton, six occupied nest boxes produced 22 fledged young. Outside the breeding season reported flock sizes were mainly around 15-35 strong, with the best counts of 100 near Wormleighton Res on January 29th, 50 in a wildbird cover crop at Bishop’s Tachbrook on February 16th, and 50 at Northend on December 23rd. Worcs Has become very scarce in the county, with the only breeding season observation being of a pair at Wassell Grove on April 8th, with one there on 17th and a pair on May 6th. The only other report came from Clifton Pits, with two present from December 1st to the years end. Staffs Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas 21030012021050 Belvide 40 43 40 30 9 12 21 30 20 20 43 63 Blithfield 0000155303128000 Ladysmith Farm 00000003030000 Waterfall 3122161000200000 Weston Jones 18 16 8631131415 Whitemoor Haye 14203100301000000 Whitmore Bent Lane 200 45 30 26 0 30 20 6 6 15 85 70 Records were received from 42 5km squares, compared with 43 in 2006 and 32 in 2005. Numbers at the regularly monitored sites above were all as good as or slightly better than

182 last years. A total of 200 on game crops at Whitmore were counted on January 30th. Two pairs used the nest boxes at Belvide where an estimated 5-10 pairs bred, three “colonies” bred below the dam at Blithfield, three pairs bred successfully at Chapel Chorlton (but one fledgling was taken by a Sparrowhawk), two pairs bred at Fair Lady Coppice, a colony produced young at Ingestre, seven pairs at Waterfall, young fledged at Weston Jones, three- four territories at Whitemoor Haye and seven+ pairs at Whitmore – Bent Lane. There were an additional 17 sites which held birds in the breeding season, giving a total of 26 sites, up from 14 in the previous two years. Other notable counts were 30 at Pipe Green (Jan-Mar), 40 at Gailey (January 5th), 14 at Enson (8th), 14 at Shenstone (24th), 20 at Napley (October 7th), 12 at Caldon Canal at Endon (November 11th) and 14 at Fernhill (December 25th). W Mid At least four pairs were present at Temple Balsall, where a flock of 17 plus birds was noted in August. Seven birds were seen at Aldridge on January 6th, with up to six on several days from June to December. One was also reported at Acocks Green on June 5th. Birds were recorded at Marsh Lane NR almost daily from October 20th to the end of the year, with a peak of 16 birds on December 15th. At least 12 birds were present at Wishaw on October 12th, with at least six at Fen End on November 2nd and four on December 26th.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Territory counts show a fairly stable population, with ten on the reserve at Brandon (cf. 12 in 2006), 30 in 72 ha of Kingsbury and Edge Hill Woods (as in 2005), 46 in 79 ha of farmland and small woodlands at Lapworth, 44 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (cf. 58 in 2006, but 45 in 2005 and 43 in 2004) and 21 in 40 ha at Oldberrow (cf.22 in 2006). The population also remains high at DMC Kineton, with 192 being the third largest May count since the census began in 1987. Flock size was average during the late winter period, with maxima of 90 feeding under beech trees in Farnborough Park on January 13th, 90 in cattle pens at Fenny Compton on 22nd and 150 in a game cover crop at Chesterton on February 21st. An exception to this picture however was a very large flock feeding in set-aside at Upper Spernall, which peaked at 800 on February 1st. Visible autumn migration began as usual in late September, with the first widespread movement on October 6th. Subsequent counts included 300 moving south-east over two hours in low cloud at Fenny Compton on October 13th, 62 south-west in two hours at Hartshill Hayes on 22nd, and at least 100 per hour moving south-west at Salford Priors GP on November 4th after fog had cleared. Autumn and early winter flocks included 120 in game cover on Ilmington Downs on October 6th, 115 on ploughed land at Fenny Compton on November 8th, a peak of 200 in game cover crops at Morton Bagot on December 9th and 90 in grassland at Charlecote GP on 10th. Two larger flocks present throughout the period in grassland at Northend and in game cover crops at Dunnington, peaked at 450 on December 7th and 700 on 16th respectively. Worcs Five nesting pairs were recorded at Bodenham Arboretum. Counts made outside the breeding season comprised flocks of 40 at Wadborough in January, 80 at Stoke Bliss in February, 150 at Clevelode on October 14th, while peak passage counts in Happy Valley comprised 270 on October 11th, 100 on 14th, 340 on 15th and 300 on 21st. During the second winter period, maximum counts in November comprised 30 at Wadborough, 50 at Bittell Reservoir and 50 at Norchard, while during December Bittell Reservoir held 50 and Clevelode 200 on 9th and the Wadborough flock increased to 200 on 15th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Bateswood SWT (as in 2006, five in 2004 and 2005), 10-15 pairs at Belvide, 16 at Doxey (up from 10 in 2006) and there were 17 territories at

183 Whitmore Bent Lane. In January, the best flock sizes were 500 at Whitmore Bent Lane, 200 at Rudyard Lake and 50 at Marquis Drive. In February, the only treble-figure count was of 150 at Apedale CP. Visible migration (see chart) was particularly good this year, sightings coming from Belvide (September 30th and October 14th) and Black Bank (all other dates), with a total count of 1068 birds heading S/SW during the period. The peak count of 267 south on October 15th took place between 7.45 and 8.45. The larger wintering flocks in November were 81 at Doxey and 300 at Whitmore Bent Lane and in December 300 at Gailey, 140 at Hill Chorlton, 90 at Stableford and 320 at Whitmore Bent Lane. W Mid About 14 pairs bred at or around Marsh Lane NR. Ten territories were recorded in a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to four in the last census in 1983. Seven territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to six last year and the average of six over the last 16 years. High counts at the end of the year included 42 birds going southwards over Dunstall Park early on October 16th, 40 at Aldridge on November 11th and 23rd, 100 plus at Marsh Lane NR on December 2nd and 60 on 23rd, and 80 plus in Sandwell Valley on 23rd. Visible migration at Netherton Hill revealed the following:

October November 18th 20th 25th 29th 30th 31st 1st 4th 12th Netherton Hill 56 36 13 90 15 87 96 37 10

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers. Long-term average: October 11th (72) to April 20th (71). 8-year average: October 7th (–4 days) to April 21st (+1 day). First seen on the early data of September 30th at Belvide, Blithfield, Middleton Hall and Salford Priors; the last returning birds were seen on April 20th at Hanchurch Woods and Bushton. Warks Although some very good sized flocks were present in the county in late 2006 most of these had apparently departed by Christmas. The only flock still present into 2007 was a small one which remained at Upper Spernall into February, peaking at 15 on 1st. The only other sightings involved singles in a Lapworth garden on February 3rd–4th, at Kingswood on 26th and at Draycote on April 6th. Autumn return passage commenced early, with a male at Middleton Hall and another south at Salford Priors GP on September 30th. No more were recorded until October 13th, but subsequent passage included maxima of 14 moving west at Salford Priors GP on 14th, six over Alvecote on 18th, nine west at Fenny Compton on 20th, 15 south-west at Hartshill Hayes on 22nd and five over Draycote on 27th. Records of one-five birds came from 20 localities during November-December, including several gardens. Three larger flocks were also present with maxima of 50 in a grass field at Northend on November 27th, 20 at Morton Bagot on December 9th and 27th, and at least 100 with other finches in game cover crops at Dunnington on December 16th. Worcs During the first winter period small numbers (less than ten) were noted at

184 Blakedown, Malvern Link, Stoke Bliss and Wadborough, while larger January counts comprised 12 on the Lickey Hills on 15th, with 25 there on 22nd, 50 on 23rd and 60 on 28th. During the second winter period small numbers (less than five) were noted at Abber - ton, Bittell Reservoirs, British Camp, Clifton Pits, Grimley, Happy Valley, Harvington, Holt, Lineholt, Longdon, Lower Moor, Norchard, Shenstone and Stoke Bliss. During October seven were on Bredon Hill on 12th and six there on 20th, plus 12 in Happy Valley on 15th. 80 were on Bredon Hill on November 15th, ten at Wadborough and 500 in the Wyre Forest on 17th, ten at Leigh Sinton on 20th, while a flock of 15 at Summerfield on 28th, rapidly increased to 50 on 31st. In December, six were at Clifton Pits on 1st, 40 at Clevelode on 9th and Wadborough held 20 on 15th. Staffs In January, the small wintering flocks at Marquis Drive (10) and Rudyard Lake (20) continued their presence; the Rudyard flock growing to 60 by mid-February. Elsewhere in February and March, counts of four or less were reported from just 17 sites. In April, the usual build-up of returning birds at Hanchurch Woods peaked at 30 on 7th with the last two birds here and one at Bushton (Belmont Common) on 20th. The first returning birds were observed at Blithfield (one) and Belvide (two) on September 30th. Visible migration at Black Bank occurred on the usual dates between October 15th and November 1st with a good total passage of 61 birds being logged flying S/SW. The most was 20 on October 18th, on which date 25 were also observed at Blithfield. Although birds were reported from 26 sites throughout the county from November to December, the only double-figure counts were 18 at Hanchurch Woods on November 4th, 10 at Rudyard Lake on 12th, 40 at Foker Grange on 21st and 12 at Marquis Drive on December 28th. W Mid A flock of 20-30 birds was present in the Birmingham part of Lickey Hills during January. In Smestow Valley, perhaps the same bird was noted on five dates from January 22nd to March 20th, with two on April 5th. Six birds were seen in Lutley Wedge on April 2nd. During the second winter period, single birds flew over Dunstall Park on October 16th and 20th; one was in Sandwell Valley on 19th, with two on November 17th, and one on 27th and December 1st; one was at Farndale on October 24th; single birds flew over Netherton Hill on October 29th and 31st, with four on November 4th; single birds were noted most days at Marsh Lane NR from November 4th–24th, with at least four birds during December; four were at Dorridge on 14th; and one was in Sutton Park on November 26th.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Very common to abundant resident. Warks The only significant territory counts reported were of 24 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot and seven in 40 ha at Oldberrow, both very similar to 2006 (when there were 24 and six respectively). The DMC Kineton May count shows that numbers there remain well above average. Flock size appeared to be very small during the first quarter, with numbers remaining low over much of the north. Post-breeding flocks were better, but few were larger than 50 strong. The best counts involved 120 in a field of Borage near Wootton Pool on August 19th, 100 at Salford Priors GP on September 23rd, 100 in a Draycote field on December 6th and a notable peak of 500 in game cover crops at Dunnington on 16th. Worcs Bodenham Arboretum held five breeding pairs. The only notable count received was of 400+ at New Farm game crop, Wadborough on November 17th. Staffs In the first winter period, as with 2006, no large flocks were noted, just typical medium-sized flocks as follows: At Biddulph (Newpool) 35, Chasewater 15, Crossplains 25, Cuckoo Bank 30, Doxey 21, Park Hall CP 30, River Sow Meadows 18 and Westport 18. Six or seven pairs bred at Belvide, five+ at Berry Hill and 12 at Doxey (as last year).

185 Good sized post-breeding flocks in August and September were noted at Berry Hill (40), Black Bank (20), Doxey (18), Ingestre (40), River Sow Meadows (17) and Sutton (72). Visible migration at Belvide and Black Bank was recorded between September 26th and November 1st totalling 113 birds heading south. Numbers in the second winter period were better than the year before and hopefully signify a recovery, the best counts being 55 roosting at Westport on October 30th, in November at Berry Hill (19), Doxey (24) and Park Hall CP (20); in December at Baggeridge CP (19) and an excellent 150 at Batchacre Hall on 16th rising to 270 on 23rd. W Mid Five territories were noted in a CBC in Saltwells Wood, compared to two in the last census in 1983. Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to two last year and the average of three over the last 16 years. High counts towards the end of the year included 40 birds at Winson Green on September 12th and 30 on December 21st, 19 in Coundon Wedge on September 29th, 30 in Sandwell Valley on October 22nd, and 40 plus during November and December, and 20 plus at Aldridge in early November. Visible migration watch at Netherton Hill showed:

October November 18th 20th 25th 29th 30th 31st 1st 4th 12th Netherton Hill 56 36 13 90 15 87 96 37 10

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Very common summer visitor and partial migrant; increasingly common in winter. Warks Nine breeding territories in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot was identical to 2006, but the total on 40 ha of pasture and garden at Oldberrow fell to only three (cf. five in 2006 and six in 2005). The largest flocks reported during the first quarter were mainly feeding in alders, with maxima of 78 at Guy’s Cliffe on January 7th and 60 at Whitacre Heath NR on 29th. Other good counts included 48 on feeders in a Lower Brailes garden on February 17th and a pre-roost assembly in an Alcester Road, Stratford garden peaking at 60 on March 13th. Post-breeding flocks were much larger and more numerous than in 2006, with many flocks up to 50 reported feeding on thistles and teasels. Amongst the better counts were maxima of: 100 at Charlecote GP on August 16th, 110 at Salford Priors GP on 26th, 65 at Hartshill on 31st, 225 at Priors Hardwick on September 8th, 120 at Morton Bagot on 13th, 180 in the Wormleighton Res area on 20th, 75 at Fenny Compton on 28th, 75 at Ratley on October 4th and 60 at Haseley on 22nd, the latter in alders. Worcs This species continues to do well in the county, increasingly noted in small numbers in suburban gardens with records from Malvern Link and St Johns, while 28 visited a Stoke Bliss garden on January 28th, 15 were observed at Lower Strensham on February 4th, plus 20 in a Little Comberton garden on March 31st and 28 there on October 13th. The only large count came from Throckmorton Lagoon, with 110 present on September 19th. Staffs Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas – 9 40 16 6 – 1396–32– Apedale CP 50–––––––70––90 Barton GP –––––––7055–5– Belvide 45––5––6–8––– Berry Hill Fields ––––6––1302201188– Black Bank –30–––––50952140– Chasewater 303–––2–4010252532 Doxey 2078910987152433318

186 JFMAMJ JASOND Hanchurch Woods 30 – 20–––––––15030 River Sow Meadows 16 11 – 22 – – 18 – 14 24 – 35 Tittesworth 325–15–––100130–6– West End Stoke 4060–––6–––––20 Westport Lake 10––––––13–603020 Whitmore Bent Lane –––––913–7–80– Numbers were down at Apedale CP and Doxey but considerably more sites reported good numbers and a good increase in autumn numbers at Berry Hill (220 on September 23rd) and elsewhere suggest a good breeding season. Three-four pairs bred at Belvide and 12 at Doxey (14 in 2006, 9 in 2005). In the first winter period, the largest flock (60) pre-roosted at West End, Stoke on February 2nd, a surprising count for an urban site. There were also 50 birds at Madeley STW on January 9th. Visible migration at Black Bank totalled 50 south between October 4th–24th. Other untabulated autumn/winter flocks comprised 60 at Anslow in August; 50 at Baggeridge CP, 100 at Blithfield, 60 at Dunwood and 40 at Weaver Farm in September; 40 at Cannock Chase – Haywood Warren in November and 50 at Croxall in December. W Mid Four to six pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR. Birds were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot and were also present in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Aldridge, Coombes wood, Cradley Heath, Dorridge, Druids Heath Golf Course, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Ketley Quarry, Mary Stevens Park, Pedmore, Portway, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sceptre Park, Sedgley, Smestow Valley, Tilehouse Green, Titford Pools, West Bromwich and Windsor Fields. Flocks during the latter part of the year peaked at 25 plus birds (mostly juveniles) in Sandwell Valley in August, 22 in Coundon Wedge on 25th, 20 at Winson Green on 28th, 34 at West Bromwich on September 11th, 85 at Blythe Valley CP on 19th, 50 at Marsh Lane NR on 23rd and 35 at Reedswood Park on November 27th. Siskin Carduelis spinus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeding species. Warks Over much of the county it was very scarce or absent during the first quarter, with the few flocks recorded mainly restricted to concentrations of alders in the south-west. There were maxima of 120 at Edstone and 50 at Wootton Pool on January 7th, 70 at Compton Verney on 10th and 32 by the River Arrow at Alcester on February 2nd. More traditional sites further north had very few, with peaks of just 12 at Brandon on January 22nd and 12 at Ladywalk on February 10th, with other sites attracting six or less. The last spring reports were of two on the Ladywalk feeders on April 22nd and a male in a Whittleford garden on May 8th, also at a feeder. The only summer record this year was of two or three in Brandon Wood on June 5th. Autumn migration commenced on September 12th with two flying south at Wormleighton Res, followed by two more over Henley GC on 16th and then daily records from widespread areas from 20th onwards. Visible migration was generally good from late September to early November, with a maximum of 25 flying south along the escarpment of Edge Hill at Radway on October 30th. Subsequently it was often quite numerous at traditional sites, with easily the largest flock present at Earlswood Lakes, where it peaked at 200 on December 24th. Other good-sized maxima included 46 at Wootton Wawen on November 11th, 60 at Brandon on 27th, December 2nd and 18th, 75 at Shustoke on December 4th, 40 at Seeswood Pool on 19th and 60 at Draycote on 24th. Parties of 20-35 were also noted at: Alcester, Charlecote, Guy’s Cliffe, Hartshill Hayes, Haseley, Kenilworth Castle, Kingsbury, Kingswood, Ladywalk,

187 Morton Bagot, New Waters (Warwick Castle Park), Offchurch, Shrewley, Snitterfield Bushes and Ufton Fields. Worcs No breeding records received this year, though one flew over Grimley on July 7th and two over Westwood Pool on 21st. Passage birds were observed during the first half of October at Happy Valley, with counts of 45 on 11th and 100 on 15th, while 15 were noted on Bredon Hill on 17th and 10 at Gwen finch Wetland on 18th. Noted in small numbers (less than 20) during the second winter period at Castlemorton Common, Chase End Hill (seven), Evesham, Grimley, Holt (eight), Little Comberton, Malvern Link (eight), Midsummer Hill, Upper Arley and Upton Warren. Larger counts comprised 25 at Stoke Bliss and 80 at Bittell Reservoirs on November 10th, with the second winter period maximum at the latter site being 150+, 30 at Tilesford on 21st and 60 at Arrow Valley Lake on 28th. In December, counts comprised 30 at Bittell Reservoirs and 24 at Kinsham Lake on 4th, rising to 50 at Kinsham on 10th, while 30 were at Abberton on 9th, 21 at Hewell Grange on 10th, 40 at Rous Lench on 15th, 60 at Arrow Valley on 16th, 40 at Bittell Reservoir on 19th, 20 at Westwood Pool on 26th rising to 35 on 29th and 35 at Throck - morton Lagoons and 150 at Croome Park on 31st. Staffs

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 1 50 –––––––40–– Belvide 14––––2–2556559 Bishops Wood 6––––––––80–– Chasewater 4––––––––1253 Hanchurch Woods 4 – 100––––––3520080 Knypersley –2110–––––7161650 River Sow Meadows –62––––––2–26 Rushton Spencer –––––––––660– Tittesworth Reservoir30––2–––––3200– Westport Lake 303010––––––3047250

Compared to the four pairs recorded in 2002, the 17 pairs recorded this year at Cannock Chase shows a healthy population increase. July and August records from Back Forest (15), Consall (20), Swineholes Wood and Waterfall suggest some breeding occurred in the north of the county too, but this was unconfirmed. The low numbers in the first winter period continued the trend from late 2005 when warm weather and bumper crops else - where resulted in small numbers wintering in the UK. The only three-figure counts were 150 at Stepping Stones on January 8th and 100 at Hanchurch Woods on March 8th, with 60 in Abraham’s Valley on January 29th the next best. The last wintering bird was at Tittesworth on April 10th. Two were seen at Belvide on July 8th after which seven at Knypersley and two at Belvide on September 23rd signified the first influx of the second winter period, which held much better numbers, the best being 250 at Westport on December 29th– 30th. A flock of 130 at Hoar Cross on December 8th was the only large untabulated flock. W Mid During the first winter period, the most seen were 40 birds at Marsh Lane NR on January 5th, 17 in Smestow Valley on January 6th and smaller numbers at Dorridge, Kings winford, Lutley Wedge, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley, Sceptre Park and Tilehouse Green. Counts were higher in the second winter period, with mixed flocks of up to 50 Siskin and Lesser Redpoll in Sandwell Valley during November and December, 80 birds in Sutton Park on November 26th, 15 at Reedswood Park on December 18th, 60 at Bourne - ville on 23rd, over 80 at Marsh Lane NR on 24th and 20 plus in Smestow Valley on 25th.

188 Up to a dozen were noted at Blackheath, Blythe Valley CP, Bourneville, Clayhanger, Cornets End, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, The Leasowes, Netherton Hill, Sheepwash UP, Walsall and Westwood Heath.

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant, with fewer in winter. Warks Ten breeding territories on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot was a slight improvement (cf. a drop to eight in 2006 from 17 in 2004). Ten pairs were also breeding at a site at Over Whitacre. The DMC Kineton May count produced only 16, which was the second lowest on record. This was a remarkable drop from the highest ever count of 90 logged there in 2006, pointing to perhaps a change in the local food supply. During the late winter period there were a good number of flocks reported, with maxima of 700 in set- aside at Birchmoor on February 8th, 100 at Galley Common on 10th, 210 in a wildbird crop at Bishop’s Tachbrook on 16th, 250 on a development site at Dordon on 26th, 120 in a field near Wootton Pool on March 25th and 170 at Fenny Compton on 27th. In contrast, autumn flocks appeared to be fewer and smaller than recently, with the best comprising 80 at Fenny Compton on September 28th, 160 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th, 100 at Northend on November 27th, 140 at Morton Bagot on December 9th, 80 at Charlecote GP on 10th, and a maximum of 300 in game cover crops at Dunnington on 16th. Worcs The only breeding data received was of two nesting pairs at Bodenham Arboretum. Noted in numbers of up to 25 throughout the year at Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common, Clevelode, Grimley, Hollybed Common, North Hill and Upton Warren, while 83 were at Holt on January 6th and 80 at Wick on February 8th. Staffs

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas –––2––43030–40– Baggeridge CP – – 100––––10–––– Cuckoo Bank 40 50 – 20 – 9 – 50 350 – – 40 Drayton Bassett Pits 3 – 40 30 9 – 5 12 – 25 40 20 Sutton ––––––––46––120 Whitmore Bent Lane 80 25 20 10 –2–212–1018

Breeding pairs and probable breeders were reported from 52 sites this year (cf. 31 in 2006 and 2005), probably due to better coverage, with numbers appearing to be holding steady. Included are Belvide (three pairs), Berry Hill (12), Blake Low (10), Cuckoo Bank (10+), Doxey two (one in 2006, three in 2005) and Gentleshaw Common (10). Pairs on the North Staffs Moor were abundant. The only visible migration records in October were 13 heading south at Black Bank on both 2nd and 16th. Untabulated large flocks were 120 at Orgreave on January 21st, 50 at Swynnerton on February 19th, 150 at Stockley Vale on August 21st, 60 at Dry Stones, Morridge on 26th and 100 at Gailey on December 14th. The highest count of 350 at Cuckoo Bank was made on September 30th. W Mid Up to ten pairs bred on Netherton Hill, but no birds were noted in a CBC in Saltwells Wood, where one pair was recorded during the last census in 1983. Several pairs were seen in Sutton Park during mid-May, with others at Coombeswood, Marsh Lane NR, Mitton, Pedmore, Reedswood Park and Sandwell Valley during the breeding season. Good numbers were present at Aldridge during the first winter period, peaking at 140 on January 25th. In addition, at least 30 were in Sandwell Valley during January and February, with highs of 40 at Marsh Lane NR on January 2nd–3rd, 36 at West Bromwich on February

189 15th and 20 at Pedmore on March 6th. A flock of 18 birds fed on stubble by Cuckoo’s Nook on August 29th. In the second winter period, there were 15 at Blythe Valley on October 14th, 20 at Foxcote on November 14th, 30 at Marsh Lane NR on 17th and 25th, and 30 at Pedmore on December 15th. Smaller numbers were noted at Minworth STW and The Spinney.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris Scarce summer visitor to the North Staffs. Moors. Scarce and much declined winter visitor. Staffs For the first time, no sightings were reported during the year.

2006 Erratum Staffs The bird reported on March 26th was seen at Whitemoor Haye, not Blithfield Reservoir.

Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Warks This species was relatively scarce and very localised during the first two months, but with sightings becoming more widespread in March and early April as spring migrants moved through. Only two flocks of note were reported, with Brandon having a peak of 60 on January 2nd and Earlswood Lakes with a maximum of 35 on 28th. Elsewhere the only parties to exceed seven involved maxima of 11 at Wootton Pool on January 7th, 14 on garden feeders at Guy’s Cliffe on February 12th and ten at Hartshill Hayes on March 29th. The last spring migrant flew north at Salford Priors GP on April 15th. Autumn passage began on September 20th with three flying west at Wormleighton Res, followed by a trickle at widespread sites on most days from 23rd. Most reports involved small parties of up to eight birds and the species was unusually scarce at traditional wintering sites. Alvecote had the best numbers with 20 passing through on October 16th and up to 30 present in late December. Other maxima included 23 feeding on Great Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum seeds at Napton Res on November 3rd, 13 flying west at Salford Priors GP on 4th, ten at Brandon on 9th, ten at Earlswood on 15th and 12 at Draycote on December 26th. Worcs Only small numbers present during both winter periods, with the best first winter counts comprising 30+ at Castlemorton Common on January 20th, 40 at Martley on February 2nd, 20 at Castlemorton Common on 11th, 30 at Bittell Reservoirs on 23rd and 30 at Ipsley Alders on 26th. Also noted in numbers less than ten at Arrow Valley, Bittell Reservoirs, Lineholt and Malvern Link. October sightings comprised three at Throck - morton Lagoons 5th, three at Grimley on 8th, while in Happy Valley, 35 were present on 11th and 40 on 14th and two were at Croome Landscape Park on 18th. During the second winter period, the only count above ten birds came from Ab Lench, with 15 present on December 15th, while small groups were observed at Castlemorton Common (seven), Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor (ten), Malvern Link (eight), Throckmorton Lagoons (seven), Upper Arley, Wadborough and Wyre Forest. Staffs

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP 120111––––––6– Belvide 885––––––8914 Sherbrook Valley 40 100–––––––61–

190 JFMAMJ JASOND Cuckoo Bank 60–––––––1130–– Hanchurch Woods 300 – 250 30 –––––6200250 Knypersley 660–––––––3–4 Tittesworth 10–5012––––––40– Breeding was suspected but not proven at The Cloud, Gun Hill, Revidge and Swallow Moss. In the first winter period the largest flock of the year, 300 at Hanchurch Woods, was seen on January 1st. Larger untabulated flock counts include 60 at Knypersley on February 25th, 30 at Gailey on October 21st, 30 at Park Hall CP on November 5th and 40 at Branston WP on December 7th. W Mid Birds were present in the breeding season in Sandwell Valley. Up to 12 were at Marsh Lane NR during the first winter period, whilst 13 were seen in Goscote Valley on February 23rd and 20 at Meriden Shafts on March 3rd. Up to seven birds were counted during early morning sky watches at Netherton Hill on six out of nine dates from October 18th to November 12th. Mixed flocks of up to 50 Lesser Redpoll and Siskin visited Sandwell Valley in November and December, and a maximum of 20 birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR. No more than eleven were counted at Blythe Valley CP, Clayhanger, Coombeswood, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley and West Bromwich in either winter period. Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea Rare or scarce winter visitor in fluctuating numbers (x/10). Warks The only documented record was of a female or first-winter bird which visited garden feeders with Lesser Redpolls at Guy’s Cliffe on February 12th CRS. Five other reports from three sites in January and February were unfortunately unsupported by descriptions. Staffs Three were observed at Hanchurch Woods on January 1st NDP, WJL, with two at the same site on April 7th SJT. One lingered at Belvide from November 19th–22nd SNu, three were seen at Hanchurch Woods on December 10th RTo and another three visited Belvide from 18th–21st, one of which was seen on 22nd SNu. All birds were thought to be “Mealies”.

Redpoll sp., Marsh Lane NR, Steve Seal

Redpoll sp. W Mid A redpoll at Marsh Lane NR from December 22nd into 2008 showed conflicting characters between Arctic Redpoll C. hornemanii and Common Redpoll C. flammea NPB

191 et al. The bird’s paleness, general lack of brown tones in the scapulars, extensive white rump (lightly peppered with grey), apparently bland face and large size compared to accompanying Lesser Redpolls suggest Arctic Redpoll. However, its large bill, some undertail covert streaking and well-streaked flanks suggest Common Redpoll. Although excellently photographed, attempts to catch the bird were unsuccessful, and its specific identification currently remains unconfirmed.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic breeding species. Warks After a decade of relatively frequent records, 2007 was devoid of sightings for the first time since 1995. Worcs A very poor year for sightings, with five on Bredon Hill on October 14th and three at the Arboretum, Callow Hill, Wyre Forest at on November 17th. Staffs An extremely poor year for this invasive species, the only records in the first winter period being two at Cannock Chase (several locations), increasing to six on March 24th, two flying north over Belvide on February 17th and two at Hanchurch Woods during March. A small influx occurred from May 4th when eight were at Million Plantation, then “several” flew over Hanchurch Woods on 7th, two at Revidge on 26th, one over Blithfield on June 24th and six more over on July 2nd. Eight were present at Hanchurch Woods on September 30th, three flew south over Black Bank early on October 15th, one was present at Cannock Chase in the Pepper Slade/Haywood Warren area between October 23rd and November 4th and finally one flew over Rudyard Lake on 12th.

2005 Addendum W Mid About 60 birds flew over Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve on July 8th PMH.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Warks This species appears to maintain stable populations in most parts of the county, with reported declines usually related to habitat destruction. Counts of breeding pairs included three in 79 ha of arable fields and small woodlands at Lapworth, four in 40 ha of farmland at Oldberrow (as in 2006), and three in 8.6 ha of plantation woodland at Warwick Race Course. The May count of 17 at DMC Kineton remains close to the long term average, despite a slight drop in frequency since 2004. Outside the breeding season double figure counts included 15 at Brandon on January 23rd, 11 at Fenny Compton STW on August 19th, 12 at Napton Res on November 3rd and 14 at Draycote on 7th. Worcs A nesting pair noted at Wick. Small numbers were noted throughout the year at Arrow Valley, Bredon Hill, Castlemorton Common, Grimley, Kinsham Lake, Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Throckmorton Lagoons and Upton Warren. 20+ were on Table Hill on September 22nd, and 10 in nearby Happy Valley on October 14th, five were at Salwarpe on November 4th, a maximum of four visited a Malvern Link garden during December, four were at Rous Lench on 25th and eight were at Hill Furze on 30th. Staffs A widespread bird with breeding confirmed or presumed at Belvide (two pairs), Berry Hill (three), Black Bank, Cannock Chase – Spring Slade, Churnet Valley, Doxey (three), Froghall, Huntington, Manifold Valley, Ranton, Revidge, River Sow Meadows (three), Tixall Bridge, Walton’s Rough and Westport, with records from a further 21 sites in June and July. Double-figure flock counts were as follows: 12 at

192 Apedale CP, 12 at Chasewater and 12 at Park Hall CP in January; 10 at Marquis Drive in February; 11 different birds were ringed at Tittesworth during May; 11 at Doxey in August; 21 at Park Hall CP in November and 10 at both Marquis Drive and at Tittesworth in December. W Mid Four territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to three last year and the average of three over the last 16 years. Four territories were recorded in a CBC of Saltwells Wood, compared to five in the last census in 1983. Birds bred at Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (three pairs), Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley (at least six pairs). Others were present in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Coundon Wedge, Major’s Green, Harborne, Ketley Quarry, Netherton, Sceptre Park, Smestow Valley, The Spinney, Tilehouse Green, Warrens Hall and Windsor Fields. Groups of at least eight birds were noted at Dunstall Park during November and December, Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve feeding station in December and Tettenhall on 18th.

Northern Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula pyrrhula 2005 Addendum Staffs An incredible record of a flock of up to 42 birds wintering in the Churnet Valley during February 2005 came to light, showing characteristics of this race. These birds did not associate with the local bullfinches, usually fed on the ground on alder seed instead of in the bushes, the males were brighter and gave the diagnostic “toy trumpet” call, all suggesting an impressive accumulation of birds from Scandinavia TEy. There were several flocks around Britain during this period but this was one of the largest.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce to uncommon, but declining, resident. Worcs A poor year with the only records comprising two at Chase End Hill on January 1st, one at Lodge Hill Farm, Wyre Forest on November 25th and one at Chase End Hill on December 6th, while two were at the latter locality on 9th and 10th. 2005 Addendum Staffs One was seen at Beech Tree Point, Blithfield on October 23rd 2005 MPR. W Mid One flew over Sandwell Valley RSPB Reserve on August 13th.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Very rare vagrant (3/10). Worcs One at Grimley heard and seen amongst a flock of Meadow Pipits on October 7th was still present the following morning when it was heard calling as it departed to the south BRS et al. The first confirmed county record and discovered just twenty minutes after a Richard’s Pipit was found at the same location!

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor. Warks A single calling bird flew north-east over Ascote Hill, Chapel Ascote on March 13th JJB. In the autumn, a male was well-watched at Draycote from October 20th–25th LPr, PPr et al.

193 Worcs During the autumn a confiding female on North Hill from October 30th remained until November 2nd many observers, while one was on Worcestershire Beacon on 13th and 14th JBi et al. with another there on 20th TTr et al. Staffs The wintering bird from 2006 at Chasewater remained until February 23rd. Snow Bunting, Chasewater, Steve Seal

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common to abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Breeding census results included 14 territories on a 79 ha arable farm at Lapworth and 17 in 120 ha at Morton Bagot, the latter showing a small but worrying drop on this stewardship farm from a stable 20 during 2004-06. Other counts included ten singing males in fields to the north of Wootton Pool and five at Lighthorne Quarry. Only 36 logged at DMC Kineton in May was the lowest ever on this long-running census, where the average during 1987-2006 is around 60. Numbers have continued to fluctuate here at a rather low level since a crash in 1996. Before this date much larger numbers were recorded, with a peak of 122 in 1990. Only one large flock was recorded in the county outside the breeding season, with up to 200 feeding in a specially sown wildbird crop at Morton Bagot during March. Other flocks were modest in size, with the largest comprising 62 at Compton Verney on January 10th, 70 at Spernall on February 8th, 60 at Bishop’s Tachbrook on 16th, 50 at Chesterton on 21st, 40 at Birchmoor on 26th, 40 at Ilmington Downs on October 6th, 50 at Dunnington on December 2nd, 40 near Wootton Pool on 16th and up to 50 at Kites Hardwick during the same month. Most of these were in stubble or game cover crops. Worcs Breeding season records comprised up to four singing males at Hollybed Common in April and noted throughout the year at Bittell Reservoirs, Castlemorton Common and Wyre Forest. During the first winter period, 30+ were at Longdon Marsh on January 14th, two at Throckmorton and 60 at Clevelode on February 17th, 75 on Bredon Hill, in a game crop above Westmancote on 18th and 26 at Little Comberton on 21st. One was observed at Barnt Green on March 14th, while during the second winter period, 35 were at Stoke Bliss on November 10th, 30 on Bredon Hill on 11th, 20 at Lower Moor during December, 40 at South Littleton on 1st and an impressive flock of 110 at Wick on 29th. Staffs Monthly maxima for selected sites: P=present J F M A M J J A S O N D Anslow 60505545–2–––63075 Cotes Heath –25––––––21–– Essington Quarry – 10 10–246–210–– Gailey Reservoir 60––2––––––p– Millmeece – 70 p–––9––15––

194 P=present J F M A M J J A S O N D Napley – 110–––––––4–25 The Clive Farm ––3030–––––––– Weston Jones 12 12 – 14 – – 14––3–1 Whitmore Bent Lane 3 6 – 10 –65–31850120 Records were received from 56 sites during the breeding season (58 in 2006, 50 in 2005), confirmed at Belvide (three-four pairs on adjoining farmland) and Ranton (one juvenile). Higher concentrations were at Millmeece (nine territories) and Weston Jones (10). The treble-figure flocks at Napley and Whitmore, tabulated above, were both discovered on wheat stubble. In the first winter period, the only other double-figure flock was 35 at Stubwood on January 5th. As in the past two years, a general disappearance in August/September with just 11 sites holding birds in August (14 in 2006) and seven in September (three in 2006) with three birds the highest count (five in 2006). In the second winter period, untabulated double-figure flocks were 10 at Acton on November 19th– 22nd, 12 at Rolleston Park October 30th–November 9th, 20 at Caverswall on December 15th and 12 at Sugnall Park on 16th. W Mid Birds were seen during the breeding season at Aldridge, Chadwick End, Cofton Common, Druids Heath Golf Course, Edgbaston Reservoir, Foxcote, Marsh Lane NR, Milburn Grange, Mitton, Pedmore, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park (“several pairs” noted). A bird visited Goscote Valley on February 3rd. In the second winter period, about 30 birds were seen at Fen End on November 2nd, a flock at Marsh Lane NR peaked at 100 birds in early December, whilst six or less were noted at Dorridge, Netherton Hill, Pedmore and Westwood Heath.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though declining, resident. Warks Counts of singing males during the breeding season were generally similar to 2006, with totals of five or more coming from: Baginton (seven by the River Avon on the old Bird Sanctuary), Brandon (around 18 estimated in the reserve area), Coton (seven), Dosthill area (eight), Fenny Compton (11), Lighthorne Quarry (15), Napton Res (nine), Salford Priors GP (20), Wootton Wawen STW (five) and Wormleighton Res (six). A steep and sudden decline was noted however on the DMC Kineton May count, where only three were logged which was the lowest total ever and only a quarter of the average figure for 1987-2006. Outside the breeding season a number of small flocks of around 15-30 were reported, while larger counts included a peak of 40 feeding in set-aside at Spernall on February 8th, a flock of over 100 in snow at Birchmoor on 9th, a maximum of 60 at a reedbed roost at Salford Priors GP on October 21st and at least 100 in a game cover crop at Toft Farm, Dunchurch on November 23rd. Worcs Pairs were noted during the breeding season at Arrow Valley and Lower Moor (5), two birds were at Strensham Lagoons on March 25th, ten males at Gwen Finch Wetland on May 20th and ten males at Lower Moor on July 5th, while noted in small numbers throughout the year at Castlemorton Common, Grimley, Holt and along the Droitwich Canal at Salwarpe. First winter period sightings comprised 60+ at New Farm game crop, Wadborough on January 27th, 18 at Ryall Pits on February 4th and 25 at Clevelode on 17th and during the second winter period, Little Comberton held one on October 25th, an impressive count of 84 birds roosted at Kinsham Lake on November 14th and 15+ visited a game crop at New Farm, Wadborough on December 30th.

195 Staffs Breeding territories were located at 92 sites, up on the previous two years when 72 sites were logged. Notable sites were Belvide (10), Berry Hill (16), Cannock Chase (25), Cuckoo Bank (41), Doxey (50) and River Sow Meadows (16). Whilst Doxey is lower than recent years (65 on average), numbers were generally up elsewhere and the Cannock Chase/Cuckoo Bank full survey counts compare well with four and 32 in 2002. It also appears that the dire summer weather didn’t prevent many pairs fledging young. Higher flock counts in the first winter period were 25 at Wetley Moor on January 6th, 25 at Napley on February 11th, 40 at Doxey on 26th, 45 at Anslow on March 3rd and 24 at River Sow Meadows on 7th. In the second winter period there were 40 at Chasewater on October 11th, 52 during a full survey at Berry Hill on 25th, 25-30 roosting at Revidge/Swallow Moss during November-December and 70 on set-aside/wheat stubble at Whitmore Bent Lane on December 13th. W Mid Birds bred at Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least 12 pairs), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley (at least three pairs). Birds were also present in the breeding season at Blythe Valley (five males on May 5th), Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Pool, Hampton Coppice, Sutton Park and West Bromwich. In the first winter period, 20 birds were ringed in the reedbed at Marsh Lane NR on February 5th, with smaller numbers noted at Bartley Reservoir, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley and West Bromwich. During the second winter period, 34 birds were ringed in the reedbed at Marsh Lane NR on October 23rd, when at least a further 20 were present, and up to 50 birds remained into November and December, with others noted at Blythe Valley CP, Cornets End, Foxcote, Knowle, Reedswood Park, Titford Pools, West Bromwich and Woodgate Valley.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra Fairly common, though much declined, resident. Warks Breeding season territories were reported from: Abbots Salford, Birchmoor (three), Bramcote Hall, Bridgetown Fields, Broom, Charlecote (two), Crimscote Downs (five), Curdworth, Dunnington, Farnborough (a pair bred), Long Itchington, Marlcliff, Middle ton, Milcote, Salford Priors GP, Upton, Wasperton and Wishaw. Outside the breed - ing season flock sizes appeared down, with maxima of 15 at Birchmoor in late February, 18 near Salford Priors GP on March 18th and ten at Hunscote on 20th, the best during the early months. Post breeding counts were even smaller with just seven at Alcester Heath on August 26th and six at Ilmington Downs on October 6th. Away from breeding sites, four or less were also noted at Bourton-on-Dunsmore, Dordon, Fenny Compton and Priors Hardwick, while a single bird at Morton Bagot from April 19th–21st was the first observed in that district for many years. Worcs At Lower Moor around five pairs were thought to have bred with birds present from the beginning of the year to July 27th, plus eight were noted at Lower Moor river flash on 5th and 6th, with a single there on 24th and 25th. Elsewhere, breeding season reports comprised a singing male at Bricklehampton on April 7th, two at Throckmorton Airfield on 10th, then one here on 18th, one at Grimley on 21st, one singing at Ryall Pits on 29th and between three and four at Shenstone during April and May. Singles were also observed at Holt on May 11th, singing at Saxon’s Lode on 14th and Bricklehampton on 20th. Shenstone held a single male on June 5th, five males frequented Bricklehampton on 7th, one was at Grimley on July 9th, two males at Honeybourne disused airfield on 10th, with four males there on 12th. The only sighting during the first winter period away from Lower Moor came from Throckmorton Airfield, where a notable flock of 18 were observed on

196 March 6th. During the second winter period, one was at Little Comberton on October 26th, while seven were there on November 1st, one was at Lower Moor also on 1st, being followed by seven on 5th and 8th, 13 at Shenstone on 1st and 25th, five at Blackminster on 21st, 10 at South Littleton on December 1st, while at Lower Moor there were two on 9th, 11 on 12th, ten on 17th and five on 22nd. Staffs

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 No. of 5km Squares 6688102012 Max. Flock Size 17446 30382556 17-23 singing males were located, (25 in 2006, 19 in 2005), at Camp Farm/Ellerton Grange (two-five), Catholme (one), Croxall (one), Packington Moor east (four-five), Trysull (one pair with two young), Whitemoor Haye/Roddige Farm (six+ territories), Whittimere (one) and Whittington Common (two-four). While sightings were regular in the Whitemoor Haye area with 16 the highest count on May 2nd, this suggests a decline in numbers for this county stronghold. No sightings were submitted from any site after July 22nd except for an exceptional and unexpected flock of 56 birds at Batchacre Hall in the west of the county on December 16th with 16 still present on 23rd. Other records comprised singles at Blithfield and Napley on February 11th and two at Alrewas on March 3rd. W Mid Up to three birds were noted at Pedmore from April 8th to May 30th.

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

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

Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus Staffs A feral bird was at Tittesworth on January 19th–20th.

Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii Warks A Cackling Goose B. h. minima visited Alvecote with a flock of Barnacle Geese on November 2nd RLS. Staffs A bird of race minima was present at Belvide on May 10th. Another at Blithfield was seen on August 10th and September 9th–22nd.

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis Worcs An adult was at Grimley on January 25th, 26th and 28th TMH et al. and was also noted at nearby Holt on 26th. Staffs A feral bird visited Doxey on February 21st.

197 Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Worcs Six juveniles were at Kemerton Lake on August 12th AHoll et al. Staffs A pair was present at Croxden Quarry from February 4th until May 20th; seen also at Blake Hall Fisheries on March 9th and subsequently at the pond at Huntley Wood on May 22nd. A single bird was present at Drayton Bassett Pits on May 2nd and 20th.

Falcated Duck Anas falcata Staffs A feral drake with a yellow ring lingered at Copmere from November 24th well into 2008.

Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus Warks The long-staying escaped male remained at Alvecote throughout the year RLS et al.

Appendix 2 The following species all fall into Category E of the British List (BOU 1998), as being introductions, transportees or escapees from captivity and whose breeding populations are not thought to be self-sustaining. The sequence and the nomenclature used in this section follow Birds of the World - A Check List, 5th Edition J.F. Clements (2000).

Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour E. Africa, S. Asia and S. America Worcs One at Grimley on May 1st was relocated at Upton Warren from 3rd to 5th.

Whistling Duck sp. Warks An unidentified bird was at Alvecote on August 16th.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, where introduced. Warks A bird was again present at Coton from March 21st onwards and was joined by a second during May 6th–July 15th, with one of these staying to at least August 16th. Worcs An adult was at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 7th, 21st and 27th, February 11th and March 4th. Staffs A pair bred at Hollybush Lake raising two juveniles. Two were present all year at Brookley’s Lake, one was regular at Whitemoor Haye in February, November and December and it or another was seen at Blithfield in June, August-October. Elsewhere, there was one at Norton Canes on February 11th, one at River Tame/Anker confluence on March 19th, Ingestre on June 27th and October 21st and two at JCB North Lake on November 11th. W Mid One was seen throughout the year at Marsh Lane NR.

Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Western North America Staffs One, presumably last years bird, returned to Wolseley Garden Park on March 23rd and was seen regularly well into the autumn although not always present on site.

198 Swan Goose Anser cygnoides Eastern Eurasia. Warks A single bird was at Wootton Wawen on January 28th and February 25th. W Mid Presumably the same bird was with Canada Geese at Dunstall Park on March 30th and July 25th.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Breeds on the high plateaux in central and southern Asia and winters mainly in northern India and Burma. Warks Two were again present with the feral goose flock on the Avon meadows in the Charlecote/Wasperton area throughout most of January and again during November- December. A single bird was at Compton Verney on February 19th, with presumably the same bird at DMC Kineton from March 13th–May 14th and again on October 8th. Brandon had a bird during December 26th–31st. Worcs One was at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 15th. Staffs One was regular at Radford Meadows/Rickerscote from January 10th–20th, returning on February 14th. In between these dates it was seen on two occasions at Doxey. One visited Belvide from February 3rd–6th, another at Barton GP on March 18th, one at Elford GP on August 12th and one at Whitemoor Haye was seen on February 4th, then fairly regularly from April 7th–August 4th, returning on September 16th and November 25th. W Mid One at Marsh Lane NR on December 15th.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata Lowlands of Mexico to NE Argentina and Brazil. Warks One was feeding with Canada Geese in the Avon meadows at Hampton Lucy on November 27th. Staffs One lingered at Bateswood Lake all year. Another was at Kings Bromley GP on March 16th. W Mid Presumably the same two birds were recorded at Walsall Arboretum on January 1st, April 26th and September 22nd.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa Forested woodlands and Inland lakes of Canada, south to northern Mexico. Warks A remarkable number of records came from the lower Avon Valley in Salford Priors parish, which coinciding with an exceptional number of Mandarins suggested that there may have been a local introduction. The first was of two males and a female at Abbots Salford from September 30th– October 3rd, with a pair at nearby Salford Priors GP on October 14th. A pair was again at Abbots Salford on November 22nd, followed by two pairs there from 26th– 30th and up to five from December 21st– 23rd. Elsewhere in the county single males were at Ladywalk on January 13th and at Alvecote during much of the year. Staffs One at Belvide on October 16th. W Mid The pair in Sandwell Valley from December 2006 stayed until January 6th, with the drake remaining till 8th. The drake on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal in central Birmingham from 2006 stayed all year.

199 Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix Open wetlands in southern South America and the Falkland Islands. Warks A single bird was feeding with the Wigeon flock at Charlecote GP on January 31st. Staffs Up to three were present at Copmere from November 28th until year end.

Argentine Blue-billed Duck Oxyura vittata Warks The male, first seen in 2006, was again at Salford Priors GP on February 4th and 25th. This bird was accidentally listed in the 2006 report as O. australis, an Australian species.

Green Pheasant Phasianus versicolor Japan Warks A male at Combrook on October 3rd was presumably the bird seen nearby at Compton Verney in December 2006. The melanistic “tenebrosus” variant of Common Pheasant was ruled out on plumage detail.

Reevesʼ Pheasant Syrmaticus reevesii North-central China Staffs One was seen on the River. Churnet at Tittesworth on April 21st, another at a shooting estate on November 23rd.

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Africa Staffs Two separate populations in the Ingestre area, one near Ingestre Wood, another near Hanyards where gamebirds are bred. The Ingestre birds have been around for many years and may be self sustaining. In addition, five were seen at Tixall on November 2nd.

Harrisʼs Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus Semi-arid woodland and scrub in South and Central America, north to southern Texas and Arizona. Warks A bird carrying jesses frequented the Lower Radbourn area during the second half of August. Staffs One was seen at Strawberry Hill on March 3rd, perhaps the same at Cheslyn Hay on 26th and another at Chasewater on August 25th. W Mid Single birds were noted at Willenhall on May 2nd and Clayhanger on November 17th.

Falcon sp. Warks A large falcon seen at Birchmoor on February 14th was thought to be either a Saker or a Saker hybrid. Another bird carrying jesses visited Brandon on November 11th. This individual was traced to a local falconer, who reported it to be a Peregrine x Saker x Gyr cross!

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Open habitats throughout inland Australia. Warks One was at Ladywalk on February 7th. This bird may have accounted for the report of an unidentified parakeet which was seen flying north over Shustoke on the same day. W Mid One was seen at Saltwells LNR on July 3rd.

200 African Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus West and central Africa. Warks A bird was photographed at Draycote on March 7th. Staffs One was present at Fenton Cemetery on September 4th.

Mitred Parakeet Aratinga mitrata Forests of South America W Mid One was seen in Sandwell Valley in November.

Parrot sp. Warks A medium-sized green parrot was in Nuneaton on November 28th.

Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo Eurasia. Warks A bird was reported calling before dawn at Birchmoor on January 30th and February 3rd. It had first been seen here on December 10th 2006 by a local resident. Another bird frequented the Bunker’s Hill Wood area during July and August, apparently preying on rabbits. Staffs An escaped bird was seen at Audley on April 12th and it was later recaptured by its owner.

Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis East Asia, winters India, Thailand, Malaysia Warks A male came for sunflower seeds at a garden feeding station in Kenilworth on October 13th.

Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus Africa W Mid A male was seen at Dunstall Park on August 19th.

Waxbill sp. Estrilda sp. Africa. Warks A bird resembling a partially melanistic Black-headed Waxbill (E. atricapilla) visited a garden feeder in Fenny Compton on June 27th. It may have been an avicultural hybrid or “sport”.

Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata Australia. Common cage-bird Warks A male was in a Shottery garden on June 7th, before apparently roosting over - night on a window ledge.

201 Ringing in 2007

A.E. Coleman Ringing Secretary

Records of recoveries in Annual Reports need to be looked at with great care since there is often extra information to tease out in order to provide a more complete picture.

Wigeon provide good examples. The record of a 216 kilometre movement for the bird moving from Bredons Hardwick in Worcestershire to Selby in Yorkshire does not take into account the fact that in the meantime the bird had made the journey to and from Russia. Again the juvenile female Wigeon ringed at Blithfield had, prior to being caught in Essex, been back and forth to Russia three times. In contrast the recoveries for Chiffchaff and Pied Wagtail are true records representing the enormous distances travelled by these tiny birds when moving to their winter quarters. The Chiffchaff movement from Claverdon in Warwickshire to Worthing in West Sussex clearly shows passage to the coast prior to migration to the continent.

Ringing birds as nestlings or in juvenile plumage enable ringers to determine precisely the age of birds and generally speaking the bigger the bird the greater its potential life span. The current report shows precisely aged Mute Swans at 10 and 12 years of age and a Canada Goose, ringed as an adult, at least 22 years of age and still going strong. Two other remarkable examples of longevity are for a Herring Gull found dead in its 29th year and a Lesser black backed Gull, 24 years of age. The report also has records of both ten and a twelve year old Wigeon, a nine year old Blackbird, a Reed Warbler over seven years of age and a Black headed Gull at least 15 years of age.

Site fidelity has been illustrated many times in previous reports and here the Sedge Warbler at Brandon Marsh and the Swallow hatched at Mallins Wood in Worcestershire provide excellent examples.

Overwintering of traditional migrant species is becoming more frequent and the Blackcap recorded during the winters of 2005 and 2007 provides a good example.

However, as mentioned in previous Ringing Notes, these birds are probably of east European origin arriving here prior to passage to the coast and moving across the Channel and into Africa – but this one changed its mind and stayed.

Finally, it is appropriate to quote from the Ringing Notes of our Bulletin regarding the mystery of the ring found at Monks Pond near Ashbourne in Derbyshire on the 6th of July 2007. Originally it was used on the 6th of January 2001 to ring an adult Coot at Blithfield Reservoir in Staffordshire and was found 18 kilometres from the ringing site – minus the Coot. How they parted company is open to speculation.

I am most grateful to the secretaries of the Bache, Shearman and McShane Ringing Group, the Brandon Ringing Group, the Coleman and Coleman Ringing Group, the Mercian Ringing Group and the Wychavon Ringing Group for sending in the recoveries on which this Annual Report is based.

202 Selected List of Recoveries involving the WMBC Area Entries are arranged by species and, within species, by recovery date. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 2007 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100 kilometres are included. Treatment of movements of less than 100 kilometres depends on the species involved.

Key

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

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

Mute Swan W20218 3 08.08.06 Stourport on Severn, Worcs WRG x 01.01.07 Warwick, Warks 50 kms

X0998 Ad 13.12.97 Worcester, Worcs WRG x 02.02.07 Unknown locality 33 kms

W14316 Ad M 21.09.03 Tewksbury, Glos WRG x 14.02.07 Ladywood, Nr Droitwich, Worcs 28 kms

W14466 5 16.03.04 Worcester, Worcs WRG x 05.04.07 Westport Lake, Stoke on Trent, Staffs 97 kms

W14305 3 16.09.03 Ecklington, Worcs WRG v v 28.08.07 Chester, Cheshire 135 kms

W14297 3 16.09.03 Strensham Lock, Worcs WRG v 30.08.07 Slimbridge, Glos 40 kms

U7553 3M 05.07.95 Cheltenham, Glos WRG x 08.09.07 Stourport on Severn, Worcs 51 kms

X0919 3 29.09.97 Upton upon Seven, Worcs WRG x 12.10.07 Burlington, Worcs 10 kms

203 Greylag Goose 5226735 Pull 29.06.02 Tamworth, Staffs C&C v v 31.01.07 Martin Mere, Burscough, Lancs 137 klms

Greater Canada Goose 5242630 Ad 30.06.85 Burton on Trent, Staffs MRG v 28.07.07 Burton on Trent, Staffs 3 kms

5101450 Ad F 24.02.02 Bredons Hardwick, Worcs WRG x 02,07.07 Beckford, Nr Tewksbury, Worcs 7 kms

Wigeon FA76975 Ad M 03.03.06 Bredons Hardwick, Worcs WRG v 10.02.07 Selby, Yorkshire 216 kms

FP68315 Ad F 05.03.05 Bredons Hardwick, Worcs WRG Shot 10.11.07 Stewartby, Beds 112 kms

FP35736 5F 15.02.03 Blithfield Reservoir, Staffs MRG Shot 04.11.07 Nr Brightlingsea, Essex 227 kms

Lesser Black-backed Gull FP86502 Pull 09.08.83 Farne Islands, Northumberland NHSN v v 27.02.07 Churchbridge, Cannock, Staffs 327 kms

Herring Gull 3 26.11.78 Worthing, Sussex x 21.02.07 Draycote Water, Rugby, Warks 181 kms

Black-headed Gull EJ48359 6 01.02.92 Nr Hempsted, Gloucester. x 03.06.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks 81 kms

Eurasian Sparrowhawk DN42322 3M 30.08.06 Brandon Marsh, Warks x 30.09.06 Nuneaton, Warks 17 kms

Common Coot GN20467 6 06.01.01 Blithfield Reservoir, Staffs BS&M x 06.07.07 Monks Pond, Nr Ashbourne, Derbys

GP76277 6 18.02.01 Bredons hardwick, Worcs WRG X ? Barrow Gurney Reservoir, Bristol, Avon 78 kms

Barn Owl GJ21484 Pull 15.06.05 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG 4M 16.09.07 Nr Ashton, Northants 75 kms

204 GC159 Pull 02.07.07 Nr Thorswood, Staffs C&C x 16.12.07 Chinley, Derbys 36 kms

Barn Swallow T540389 Pull 26.05.06 Mallins Wood, Worcs WRG x 17.05.07 Storridge, Malvern, Worcs 2 kms

Pied Wagtail P574855 3 21.08.02 Rodbaston, Nr Stafford, Staffs BS&M v 14.12.02 Huelva, Spain 1755 kms

Robin P577738 3J 02.06.04 Lodge Moor, Nr Sheffield, South Yorks SB RG V 15.12.07 Light Oaks, Staffs 51 kms

Blackbird RP46956 3M 12.12.98 Sandon, Staffs BS&M v 04.02.07 Sandon, Staffs 0 kms

Sedge Warbler T179486 3J 23.07.05 Stanford Reservoir, Northants v 25.06.06 Brandon Marsh, Warks 23 kms v 03.06.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks 23 kms v 24.07.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks

Reed Warbler V000423 4M 14.05.06 Holme Pierrepont, Notts v 20.05.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks 69 kms v 03.06.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks v 19.07.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks

P306208 4 17.06.00 Brandon Marsh, Warks v 10.07.07 Brandon Marsh, Warks 0 kms

Blackcap JC56974 4M 25.12.05 Walsall, W. Mids MRG x 31.12.07 Vista, Oxon 86 kms

Common Chiffchaff AXH146 3 03.09.06 Nr Great Malvern, Worcs WRG v 24.10.07 Illa de Buda. Tarragona, Spain 1294 kms

AJE994 3J 23.08.05 Brandon Marsh, Warks BRG v 18.02.06 Arroya Budion Rena, Spain 1517 kms

BLB038 3J 19.07.06 Claverdon, Warks BRG v 26.09.06 Worthing, West Sussex 182 kms

205 Pied Flycatcher R203074 Pull 08.06.05 Midsummer Hill, Worcs WRG 4F 31.05.07 Bucknell Wood, Salop 56 kms

Tree Sparrow P465899 4 20.02.02 Brewood, Staffs BS&M 4 04.02.06 Out Rawcliffe, Lancs 141 kms

Chaffinch R747042 3F 06.10.07 Isle of Man CMBO v 21.11.07 Blithfield, Staffs 236 kms

Greenfinch TB59968 4M 18.09.05 Brewood, Staffs BS&M x 29.01.06 Felbeck, Pateley Bridge, N.Yorks 161 kms

Siskin V157923 5F 29.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs C&C x 11.03.07 Huntly, Grampian Region, Scotland 540 kms

Key to Contributors to the Ringing Report

WRG Wychavon Ringing Group C & C Coleman and Coleman MRG Mercian Ringing Group BS & M Bache Shearwood and McShane NHSN Natural History Society of Northumberland SBRG Sorby Breck Ringing Group CMBO Calf of Man Bird Observatory

206 Unusual Spring Migration of Wheatears in Staffordshire 2007

Nick Pomiankowski, December 2008

It became clear during the 2007 spring migration at Berry Hill, one of the best sites in the county for Wheatear and Whinchat passage, that exceptional numbers of Wheatears were arriving from mid- to late-May. This was most unlike typical years when peak numbers appear through April and passage migration is pretty much over by mid-May.

A compilation of records from the whole of the county for 2007 produced the numbers shown in the chart below. Contrast this with the totals in 2006 and 2005. While excellent numbers arrived during late April, there was an additional and unexpected high on 14th May and double-figure counts continued up to the 20th.

Looking at the national picture, using records from BTO Birdtrack, the graph below again shows the burst of records from mid- to late May in 2007 which was a feature across the whole country and not just Staffordshire; but note that these charts include breeding birds as well as passage migrants.

Wheatears winter in tropical Africa and arrive back in the UK from as early as February. Northern Wheatears of the nominate race Oenanthe oenanthe oenanthe arrive first, nest in the UK and will have already laid eggs by mid-April. During April, a gradual transition at

207 migration sites takes place as birds which breed further north in countries such as Greenland and Northern Canada pass through and it is thought that by late April most, or all, of these birds are Greenland Wheatears Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa. What happened in 2007, therefore, was a late surge of these birds arriving in larger numbers and later than expected and this was certainly a feature at Berry Hill where many birds showing characteristics of Greenland Wheatear were observed.

The surge was almost certainly due to the weather. The good passage weather broke down in the second week of May to be followed by a week of particularly grim weather in the south of the UK which caused passage to virtually dry up. Once this bad weather ended in mid-May, passage once again got under way and the bad weather moved to the eastern Atlantic. The majority of Greenland Wheatears are thought to migrate directly from southern Europe to their breeding grounds across the Atlantic, but this subsequent bad weather caused them to move in short hops through Northern Europe, including the UK, instead. These weather factors explain the late arrival and large numbers of migrating birds.

Looking back with hindsight, this disturbance in normal migratory behaviour was perhaps one of the first indications of the freak summer weather patterns to come!

Acknowledgements

Martin Cade, Warden, Portland Bird Observatory for comments on weather and migration patterns.

Mark Grantham, BTO, for the national wheatear graphs.

Anyone who has submitted Staffordshire wheatear records, without whom this article would not have been possible.

208 Great Reed Warbler – Barton Gravel Pits 20th May 2007. A First for Staffordshire

Steve Richards, 2008.

On 20th May 2007 I had spent the morning birding around Whitemoor Haye with Ian Moore. Birding was a little slow with just a couple of Turnstones and several Wheatears of note. Nevertheless, as it was a pleasant day, we continued to bird and by early afternoon decided to check the nearby Barton Gravel Pits on the off chance ‘something’ could be lurking.

After a fruitless half an hour or so of scrutinising the main pit, where the gull colony resides, we decided to move round the side of the pit for a better view. On reaching the far corner of the pool, we were stopped in our tracks by a couple of guttural notes coming from a small patch of reeds and willows in the corner of the speedboat pit. We both froze and looked at each other and commented that it immediately sounded interesting. A couple more notes were repeated a short time after, interspersed with more typical Reed Warbler-like notes. These didn’t seem loud enough for Great Reed (it must have been in sub-song), which we have both heard in the UK a few times and many times on the continent in the past.

However, we were intrigued and keen to see the bird to eliminate any other possibilities. Suddenly Ian saw a rufous brown, almost thrush-sized, bird fly quickly into the small patch of reeds. We were now much more confident that we had something different. After spend- ing well over an hour “grilling” the vegetation, views of the birds were very brief and never fully conclusive. Despite this, all the brief views we were getting were adding ‘pieces to the jigsaw’ and we decided that it would be best to notify other keen Staffs birders. Shortly after, Ian went to meet Adam Archer to bring him to the location.

Suddenly, the bird began to sing more loudly and continuously, proving our original suspicion to be correct. I was now 100% sure that we had found a Great Reed Warbler and immediately phoned Ian who was on his way back. The song was similar to Reed Warbler, but much louder and slower, carrying further and with many obvious croaking and guttural sounds which are never made by Reed Warbler.

The bird also began to show better as the day progressed. The large size of the bird was very evident, especially when a Reed Bunting perched nearby, and its long tail very prominent. Some of the most diagnostic features noted were the heavy thrush-like bill with a yellowish base to the lower mandible not extending to the tip, the broad pale supercilium particularly in front of the eye and the long primary projection. In plumage the bird was similar to Reed Warbler, with warm rufous upperparts and paler underparts. A couple of differences which Ian noted were the pale tips to the primaries, and a greyish cast around the nape. The bird also raised its crown feathers on several occasions which is charac - teristic of Great Reed. The bird regularly returned to its ‘favourite’ perch of a couple of dead branches at the base of the reedbed during our 4½ hour period of observation. It remained until late in the evening when it regularly showed and sang more continuously than earlier in the day. The bird was not seen the next day and had presumably moved on with a beautiful clear sky that same night. It was a first record for Staffordshire and the fourth for the Region.

209 The loss of the native Black Grouse population from the Peak District

T. Poyser 1 & D.W. Yalden2 1 The Old Church Hall, Glandford, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7JR 2 High View, Tom Lane, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak SK23 9UN (Hon. Reader, School of Life Sciences, University of Manchester)

Introduction The Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix (formerly Lyrurus tetrix) was once widespread throughout Great Britain, at least as far south as Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Sussex and Kent, although perhaps absent from E England. Formerly, it was more numerous in Staffordshire than Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus: the local Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos caught 39, but only three Red Grouse, about 2000 years ago (Bramwell et al. 1990) and much more recently Plot (1686) apparently reported Blackgame more abundant than Red Grouse. During the late 19th Century and early 20th Century, it retreated from the southern half of England, and by 1945 the birds in the Peak District were the most southerly English population, moreover already isolated from populations 100 km further north up the Pennines and 70 km to the west in N Wales (Sharrock 1968, Brown & Grice 2005).

Within the Peak District, Black Grouse were still present in 1945 in four counties (Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, W Yorkshire), but by the time this population was documented in some detail, in the mid-1970s, it had already disappeared from Yorkshire and Cheshire, and was in sharp decline in Derbyshire (Lovenbury et al. 1978). The popula- tion was then thought to be stable in Staffordshire. The total Peak District population was estimated at 65 cocks, with 55 of them counted at leks in Staffordshire. However, the subsequent decade saw further declines, extending into Staffordshire, where it had lost over half its numbers; it was estimated that the population had declined to around 27 cocks in 1985 (Yalden 1986). Despite considerable efforts to conserve this population in subsequent years, it declined to extinction in 1999. This paper documents what is known about the pattern and causes of this decline. Belatedly, attempts are being made to reintroduce the species, and these are briefly documented.

Sources DWY and TP were both involved in surveying the Black Grouse and their local habitats throughout these years. TP was then living about 12 km SSE, and made many early morning visits as well as covering the main area for Common Bird Census style surveys. DWY lived about 20 km NNW, and made more sporadic visits. We also had contacts with other local observers, and access to annual reports of the Derbyshire Ornithological Society (DOS), Cheshire and Wirral Ornithological Society (CAWOS), Sheffield Bird Study Group (SBSG) and (for Staffordshire) the West Midland Bird Club (WMBC). In 1992, the Peak Park and English Nature between them financed the conversion of the field barn overlooking the main lek site at Swallow Moss into a public-access hide, and installed a voluntary loose-leaf log book The pattern of decline is best recorded in that log book, from which TP has extracted the records. Additional information on use of sites and habitats comes from a survey commissioned by English Nature and carried out by Dr Martin Jones in 1988 (Jones 1988).

210 Given that the species is now locally extinct, the caution which invoked the use of code letters for lek sites in previous reports now seems unnecessary, and it will be more useful for future historians of the species and the area to identify the sites. More specific comments on the relationships between habitat loss and numbers at particular leks can consequently be made.

Results

There appear to be no later records from Yorkshire or Cheshire beyond what were given earlier by Lovenbury et al. (1978) and Yalden (1986) (SBSG, CAWOS annual reports). However, Richard May (pers. comm.) reported 6 sightings (extracted from his game- books) from the High Moor area, 1960-66, of one or two Blackcock, and 4 or 5 sightings of a single cock, once a hen as well, in 1977/8.

In Derbyshire, counts in the vicinity of lek N (Oldfield Farm, Goyt) ended with one male in 1984, though up to 3 Greyhens were seen that year (GH) and one hen was seen the following year (16/3/85, D.W.Y.). That appears to have been the last record of the native population in the Goyt valley. There is some uncertainty about the size and demise of lek O on Win Hill; there were apparently 5 cocks in March 1985, but records given (DOS) of one Blackcock in 1986 and 2 in 1987 in “N. Derbyshire” may well relate to this area. Isolated sightings in N Derbyshire of a pair together in 1992 and a single cock lekking further south in May 2002, with no sightings of the species in surrounding years, seem to support rumours of informal attempts at reintroduction. The main lek site in the Upper Derwent, a favoured area in the 1960s, was on Lockerbrook Heights above (W. of) Fairholmes, but there were no sightings in the Upper Derwent after the mid-1970s, and the lek site itself seems to have been abandoned earlier than that.

The retreat to Swallow Moss

Thus by the time when the 1986 report was published, the Black Grouse was probably in fact already confined, in the Peak District, to Staffordshire. Moreover, as documented then (Yalden 1986), the populations formerly lekking west of the A53 (Buxton-Leek) road had already virtually disappeared, leaving only the remnants east of that road.

To document their final extinction west of the A53, lek A on Gun Hill was still frequented by one male in 1985. Our last sightings in this area (not lekking) were one male on 1/10/83 (DWY) and two hens on 6/10/84 (DWY). While they were seen annually in October up to 1984, none has been seen since that year, although the site has been visited in that month every year since then. At Back Forest, only an occasional lek site in the early 1970s, but a regular wintering site, the last sighting was a single cock in snow 22/1/84 (DWY). On nearby Gradbach Hill (lek sites C and D), where there were 12 cocks in 1975, the last sighting was probably a cock in severe winter weather, 21/2/79 (GH, DWY). The area around the plantation at Gib Tor (lek E), where 9 were lekking on 7/5/78 (DWY), our last sightings were of one male on 24/2/80 and 2 females on 11/1/81 (DWY). More detailed counts here by C. R. Linfoot found highest counts in successive years of nine (24/3/77), 11 (1/4/78), seven (20/4/79), four (4/4/80), four (4/4/81) and finally one (11/5/82), similar to our own records in the timing of their loss. One possible later wanderer was a cock recorded at Baldstone in the hide log book (5/4/95 P. Stanley).

211 East of the A53, the remaining leks were mostly in the Swallow Moss area, on Big Fernyford Farm (lek F) and in the nearby Blakebrook valley (lek G), on Revidge (lek I), at Boarsgrove (lek K) and Badger’s Croft (lek J), though also further afield at Brandside/Dun Cow’s Grove (lek M) and outside the Peak Park at Swineholes Wood (lek L). Except the last two, all were within about 3 km of each other, and it is not certain how distinct they were. In 1985, simultaneous counts at leks recorded two on Revidge, three at Badger’s Croft, one at Boarsgrove and one in Blakebrook, with eight on the main lek at Fernyford. There were also two males at Swineholes but none at Dun Cow’s Grove, though there had been one there in 1984 and our own last sightings were a male and female on 13/11/83 (DWY). There appear to be no later records from Swineholes, so by 1986, the species was probably in fact already confined to the Swallow Moss area. Our last sightings away from the lek site there included three males and two females at Boarsgrove on 18/2/90, one cock displaying there at dusk on 25/3/90, and a last sighting of a cock there on 16/4/90 (all DWY). Single Greyhen were put up from Badger’s Croft on 2/12/90 and 24/4/94, and from Boarsgrove on 23/7/94 (all DWY).

The 1987-88 survey

In 1987-88, Dr Martin Jones carried out a collation of existing records as well as regular surveys of this area. In tabulating the available records, he drew attention to the scarcity of records of Greyhens around the lek site, in contrast to their more regular sighting (though still far fewer than of Blackcock) at more distant localities (Table 1). The 40 survey visits he made specifically to the Fernyford/Swallow Moss area, spread evenly through the year, yielded in total 301 sightings of Black Grouse, of which 201 (67%) were of Blackcock on the lek field; 9 sightings of Greyhen were also made there. The highest two-monthly count (9) and highest mean count (6.6, n = 5) were in Dec-Jan. In Apr-May, the equivalent figures were 5 and 3.5 (n = 5), implying some dispersal to the minor lek sites. Either way, these provide useful baseline data for describing what happened later. Of the sightings away from the lek field, most came from Swallow Moss plantation (17) and the vicinity of the large willow clump at the N edge of Swallow Moss (29); the latter was the only site where females clearly outnumbered males (17:12), though the rushy field beside the farm track yielded 2 sightings, of Greyhens only.

Table 1: Sex ratio of Black Grouse seen in N Staffs (from Jones 1988).

Males Females Ratio (M/F) Away from Fernyford (1971-87) 217 133 1.6 At Fernyford (1971-87) 132 28 4.7 At Fernyford (1987-88) 115 21 5.5

As a result of his analysis of their habitat choices, as revealed during this survey, suggestions were made to improve the habitat for the Blackgrouse. Several boundary gullies were planted with berry-bearing shrubs (Hawthorn, Rowan) and other food species (Birch, Larch) in the hope of adding to their food supplies and screening them from some of the disturbance (e.g. along the roadside). A few of the birches in Swallow Moss Plantation were coppiced, to provide instant cover and new shoots as food. Most impor - tantly, the old field barn overlooking the lek field was converted into a hide, and a wall and hedge created alongside the approach to it, at a cost of £5000. It was feared that

212 birdwatchers on the farm track nearby were likely to deter the approach of Greyhen to the lek, though observations showed that the cocks would continue displaying. Unfortunately, there were irresponsible birdwatchers who trespassed through the lek field, and certainly disturbed the cocks; it was hoped that the hide would give them good views of the impressive display, from close to, while reducing or eliminating the disturbance. Conver - sion took place during 1992, and it was opened from the beginning of 1993. It certainly provided good (and much appreciated) views, and encouraged the recording of sightings at that site.

The hide logbook records

The level of recording at the hide was variable, and not all observers were known to us. However, the general pattern of records matches well our own contributions there, and we accept them at face value. Probably the highest number of cocks seen each year, or during any April-May mating season, is the best single indication of the size of the population, but total sightings during the year and the number of days with records are also useful (Table 2). “Numbers of days without positive records” include both those that specifically stated “no Black Grouse” and those when other species, but not Black Grouse, were recorded.

Table 2: Records of Black Grouse sightings from the hide at Big Fernyford, 1993-1999. Data extracted from the log books by TP: B, number of Blackcock sightings during the year; Bmax, highest count (date); G, number of Greyhen sightings during the year; J, number of juveniles sighted during the year; n+, number of days with positive records; n–, number of days without positive records, and % negative.

Ye a r B B m a x G J n + n – % 1993 886 10 (27/1; 31/1; 6/6) 29 17 145 44 23 1994 644 8 (14/5) 35 1 164 32 16 1995 705 7 (9/1; 2/4) 19 163 32 16 1996 616 6 (19 dates, 10/1-29/6) 23 189 16 8 1997 237 5 (27/12) 27 130 5 4 1998 233 5 (13/2, 28/3) 39 1 98 18 16 1999 7 3? (17/3) 6 10 97 91

These record are interesting in several respects. The constant presence of Blackcock at the lek site throughout the year was well known; mostly, negative records came from July- August, when Blackcock moult, and by September the lek was usually re-occupied. The likelihood of seeing Blackcock at the lek remained as high in 1998 as in 1994-5, matching the knowledge that they remain very site-faithful; only in 1999 was failure to see them more likely. More surprising was that the highest counts each year were mostly earlier in the year, when they might have been expected in September-October, as new recruits joined the lek. However, it is obvious retrospectively that convincing evidence of recruit - ment was only presented for 1993. Even if the two single later sightings were correctly assigned as juveniles, they were few, and indicate poor breeding success, unlikely to sustain the population. Even so, the sudden collapse of the population in late 1998-1999 is surprising. Through most of the 1997 breeding season, there were consistently four cocks recorded, and the late record of five, sustained into early 1998, might even have been encouraging. However, from September 1998, no more than a single cock was recorded,

213 except possibly three on 17/3/99 when “3 Black Grouse” were logged (males, females, both?). On 29/10/98, two observers (JP, LF) reported a Fox stalking Black Grouse and Rabbits, which might have been prophetic: on 30/1/99, DWY discovered the fox-bitten wing of a Blackcock beside the track to Fernyford, his last record of a male in this area. One last record of a Blackcock was made on 20/5/99 (ICS). Given how scarce sightings of Greyhen have always been (Table 1), and amid fears that there might be no Greyhens left to mate with the cocks in later years, there were several late sightings of them in March- April 1999, by which time there were apparently no cocks left to display to them. WMBC (2001 annual report) suggest that there was one last sighting of a Greyhen at the lek site on 6/2/00.

Causes of the final decline Loss of habitat, especially in the W part of the N Staffs Moors, between 1975 and 1986 has already been documented (Yalden 1986). Much of the moorland and some of the scrub was overgrazed, some was converted into more productive pasture or silage, and the plantations at Gib Tor matured and closed canopy. Canopy closure has been shown to relate strongly to declines of Black Grouse in Perthshire (Pearce-Higgins et al. 2007), and seems likely to have also been a major factor in the earlier declines in the Goyt and Derwent Valleys (cf. Yalden 1986).

Drastic changes of these kinds were less evident in the E part of the moors, and it became harder to identify precise causes for the terminal decline. In the 1988 report (Jones 1988), and in subsequent management meetings trying to identify ways of saving the population, several possibilities were considered. There had been some agricultural changes. Big Fernyford converted from a dairy farm to a mixed sheep/beef enterprise, with consequent changes. Some deep drains were re-excavated, to improve the grazing, and might have reduced food availability (insects from damp ground, for chicks, or herbs, for adults, which spent much time feeding in the lek field and elsewhere; Jones 1988). At one time a fence was strung down the lek field, and sheep were grazed there; they are known to graze much more tightly than cattle, and to be inimical to other herbivores (Brown Hares and Red Grouse as well as Black Grouse; e.g. Smith et al. 2004, Calladine et al. 2002). Young shoots of Heather and possibly Bilberry are known to be more nutritious to grouse, which is why grouse moors are traditionally burnt in small patches. It has been hard to maintain this sort of management in recent years, despite the best efforts of the estate wardens, and some antipathy was expressed at the desirability of continuing the burning regime when tall heather was known to be favoured as cover by the Black Grouse on Swallow Moss. Baines (1996) showed that ungrazed bilberry held substantially more of the insects that chicks eat, and that absence of grazing (by sheep or deer) was more important than gamekeeping (= predator control) for breeding success in the species.

Predation, especially of eggs, sitting hens, and young chicks, is never-the-less known to be a major factor in limiting breeding success of ground-nesting birds, including Black Grouse (Summers et al. 2004). Consequently, serious efforts were made to control crows and foxes, the major threats, within 2 km of Big Fernyford; 26 foxes and 68 crows were culled in 1993, another 16 foxes and 93 crows in 1994, 12 and 37 respectively in 1995; later figures are not available. Smaller numbers of some other potential predators of chicks or eggs (Stoat, Weasel, Mink, Ferret, Magpie) were also killed, with the overt intention of improving breeding success.

214 Disturbance of one sort or another was also a major concern, and was well documented, particularly in the logbook. Army cadets were wandering all over Swallow Moss, and no Black Grouse were seen in 3 hours, on 13/10/84 (DWY), but agreement was reached that they should keep off Swallow Moss itself in future years. The later report that four soldiers walked across the lek field on 8/2/97 (C. Davies) was therefore particularly disappointing. On the other hand, a helicopter hovering over Revidge as troops abseiled from it (14/3/87 DWY et al.) did not disturb 4 cocks from the lek, though it did put up 2 cocks and 4 hens from the E side of Swallow Moss; similarly, the noise of training on Lum Edge (23/3/93, DWY) did not disturb six cocks on the lek field. Mostly, cocks on the lek field tolerated people on the farm track, and the hide, once available, certainly minimised disturbance. However, before the hide was available, 10 cocks and 2 hens were certainly disturbed by 2 birdwatchers strolling through the middle of the lek field on 17/10/92 (DWY). On later occasions, they were disturbed from the lek site by a tractor (3/5/93, R Johnson & V Young) and sheep gathering, and skittish sheep disturbed 2 cocks (14/2/95 G. Birch). Low flying aircraft (27/10/94, P. Highman; 12/6/95 D. Allutt; 15/10/95 G. Birch et al.), including a microlight (25/5/95 G. Saunders) and a hot-air balloon, also upset them.

Inbreeding depression was not actively considered as a factor in their final demise, and there is no evidence directly for it; it would have needed genetic samples to prove it. However, a study of the Prairie Chicken Tympanuchus cupido, a similar lekking species, demonstrated reduced egg fertility in small isolated populations left east of the Mississippi. Moreover, introduction of new genetic stock from larger populations west of the river restored hatchability (Westemeier et al. 1998). Thus inbreeding might, by analogy, have affected the N Staffs Black Grouse, but given the small size of the population, chance events such as poor weather or predation could equally well have reduced breeding success.

Female dispersion was considered as a problem. While radiotagging studies elsewhere have confirmed that Black Cock are usually found within 1.5 km of their lek, all year, and young cocks usually join their father’s lek, Greyhen typically disperse, anything up to 25 km. In the absence of surrounding leks to attract them, it was feared that perhaps they were lost to the Peak District population. The tail of late sightings of Greyhen suggests that this did not happen.

Conclusions

The native population of Black Grouse in the Peak District had been a relatively small and isolated one for at least 60 years. Over the last 30 years, the loss of habitat, a combination of forest canopy closure in the absence of thinning and replanting, overgrazing by increasing numbers of sheep and agricultural intensification (drainage, silage) and the declining management of the local moorlands, was surely the main problem. Whether loss of insect food for chicks, winter food for adults, loss of cover or some combination of these was the critical element of habitat loss that caused the decline cannot be decided. By the time the population was reduced to around 10 cocks and their associated hens in the Swallow Moss area, it is probable that chance events overwhelmed the efforts (predator control, habitat improvement, reduced disturbance from providing the hide) to conserve them. They might have been rescued by introducing extra stock while there were still some

215 native birds to act as guides, and this was discussed. In the absence of agreement on the causes of decline, and uncertainty as to whether it would work, the R.S.P.B. participants were unable to endorse this, and the chance was lost.

Later lessons from Reintroductions

Just too late to help, a tentative trial near Macclesfield Forest was carried out, followed by a more determined reintroduction programme to the Upper Derwent. It is too early to know if the latter will succeed, but there are already some interesting lessons learnt.

High Moor, near Macclesfield Forest, had been restored to heather moorland from Molinia grassland by the landowner, Richard May, over a programme started in 1992 (Anderson et al. 1997). In September 2001, 8 Blackgame, 4 cocks and 4 hens, were “hard- released” there (turned out directly onto the moor, not kept for a conditioning period in a release cage), all wearing radio-collars. This is the time of year when young birds normally leave their mother. All survived the first 5 months, over the winter 2001-2002, but the behaviour of the sexes after that was very different. The 4 males displayed at different individual lek sites within 1 km of each other and the release site; one was predated (Fox) in May 2002, and another shortly afterwards (Goshawk?). One hen was also lost early (March 2002, Goshawk?). Another wandered between the Goyt Valley and High Moor, then to White Nancy, Alderley Edge and near Manchester Airport, 17.5 km NW, before returning to High Moor. She then left to Goyt Valley again, before being lost northwards; she was eventually found, Peregrine-predated, on Kinder Scout, 22.5 km NNE. Another hen left to Gun Hill, then to Blackshaw Moor and Swallow Moss, 14 km ESE., where she reared two male chicks. Unfortunately she was either killed by a Fox, or scavenged after being killed on the road, but the two cocks survived. The fourth hen remained near High Moor, where she raised 4 young (2 male, 2 female). Thus, at the end of the first year, there were still 9 birds in the population (Bowker & Bowker 2002, see also Blamire 2003); one cock was reported on 26/5/03 (RMB in CAWOS 2003), and 2 survived to August 2003.

On the strength of this trial, Severn Trent Water agreed to finance a serious reintroduction attempt to the Upper Derwent Valley. Captive-bred stock, the avicultural and radio- tracking expertise of G. & C. Bowker, and the cooperation of the major landowners and shooting tenants were all critical to this programme. In 2003, 11 cocks and 15 hens were hard-released in October, but surprisingly both sexes showed considerable dispersal, up to 12 km within a week, and by May 2004 had been recorded up to 21 km away, as far as Hathersage, Winnat’s Pass and Holmfirth. However, 20 had been killed by predators (17 by raptors, mostly Goshawk, 3 by Foxes), probably because their greater activity made them more vulnerable. The release programme was therefore altered in later years. More use was made of soft release (keeping birds in release pens for 5 days), and birds were released in December or April (cocks) and July (hens), after normal dispersal periods. These techniques successfully reduced both dispersal and predation. By late 2007, 101 cocks and 109 hens had been released, and at least 48 cocks had been counted lekking. From 16 known nests, only seven successful broods had been found, but other hens were suspected to have nested successfully, out of radio contact. A further 180-200 birds were due to be released in 2008, and again in 2009, the final year of the release programme (G. & C. Bowker, pers. comm.).

216 These results affirm that captive-bred stock can be successfully released into the wild, but emphasize the unsuspected dispersal ability of this species. Established leks, which retain young males and attract Greyhens, are important to population dynamics. The fact that the normally much more abundant Red Grouse suffered severely from trichostrongylosis (“grouse disease”) in 2005, at just the time when they would have been important alternative prey for local predators, emphasises the important part luck may play in such reintroductions.

Acknowledgments

We thank Jon Stewart (Natural England) for access to the log sheets from the Swallow Moss hide, and for a copy of the 1988 report on the Black Grouse survey. Many observers have shared their records with us, including Eddie Gibson, Geoff Howe, Charles Linfoot and the late Maurice Waterhouse; we thank them, and the often unknown observers at the hide whom we acknowledge by initials only. Barry Mosley (estate warden at Swallow Moss) and Dr Martin Jones are thanked for discussing the issues with us. Gordon Bowker and Andrew Warren kept us informed about the reintroductions.

References

Anderson, P., Tallis, J. H. & Yalden, D.W. (1997). Moorland Management Project, Phase III Report. Peak Park Joint Planning Board, Bakewell. Baines, D (1996). The implications of grazing and predator management on the habitats and breeding success of black grouse Tetrao tetrix. Journal of Applied Ecology 33: 54-62. Blamire, S. (2003). Black Grouse release scheme in Eastern Cheshire. Cheshire and Wirral Bird Report 2002: 148-150. Bowker, G. & Bowker, C. (2002). A pilot reintroduction of Red and Black Grouse on re- created moorland. Unpublished report to Severn Trent/Richard May partnership. Bramwell, D., Yalden, D.W., & Yalden, P.E. (1990) Ossom’s Eyrie Cave: an archaeological contribution to the recent history of vertebrates of Britain. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 98: 1-25. Calladine, J., Baines, D. & Warren, P. (2002) Effects of reduced grazing on population density and breeding success of black grouse in northern England. Journal of Applied Ecology 39: 772-780. Jones, M. (1988) A survey of the habitat utilization and ecological requirements of Black grouse on Big Fernyford Farm and Swallow Moss. Unpublished report to Nature Conservancy Council, West Midlands Region. Lovenbury, G. A., Waterhouse, M. & Yalden, D. W. (1978). The status of Black Grouse in the Peak District. Naturalist 1978: 3-14. Pearce-Higgins, J. H., Grant, M. C., Robinson, M. C. & Haysom, S. L. (2007) The role of forest maturation in causing a decline of Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix. Ibis 149: 143-155. Plot, R. (1686) Natural History of Staffordshire. Oxford. Smith, R.K., Jennings, N.V., Robinson, A. & Harris, S. (2004) Conservation of European hares Lepus europaeus in Britain: is increasing habitat heterogeneity in farmland the answer? Journal of Applied Ecology 41: 1092-1102.. Summers, R. W., Green, R. E., Proctor, R., Dugan, D., Lambie, D., Moncrieff, R. Moss, R. & Baines, D. (2004) An experimental study of the effects of predation on the

217 breeding productivity of capercaillie and black grouse. Journal of Applied Ecology 41: 513-525. Westemeier, R. L., Brawn, J. D., Simpson, S. A., Esker, T. L. Jansen, R. W., Walk, J. W., Kershner, E. L., Bouzat, J. L. & Page, K. N. (1998). Tracking the long-term decline and recovery of an isolated population. Science 282: 1695-1698. Yalden, D. W. (1986) The further decline of Black Grouse in the Peak District 1975-1985, Naturalist 111: 3-8.

218 County Lists

The following tables show all species in categories A to C of The British List that have been reliably recorded in the area covered by the current boundaries of the four counties of the Region since records were kept. The regional total as at December 31st 2007 was 342. The year shown is the latest in which the species has been observed in each county while nk refers to reliable, but undated, 19th century records. Subspecies or races are shown in italics and they, along with known escapes, are not included in the totals. Details The Details column is used to indicate for which species a description or supporting details are required As the status of each species is not necessarily the same across the four counties, a description or supporting details may be required for some counties but not for others The level of detail required will, of course, vary with the species concerned; some requiring only a brief sentence while other, rarer species, more detailed notes However, if the bird you are claiming is unfamiliar to you, or you are unsure of its identity, then don’t be afraid to send in a description – even if it is not requested.

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

Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Mute Swan Cygnus olor 2007 2007 2007 2007 Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus Wa,St 2007 2007 2007 2007 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Wa, Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Bean Goose Anser fabalis A 2004 2006 2006 2007 Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Wa, Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons A 2007 2007 2007 2006 Greylag Goose Anser anser 2007 2007 2007 2007 Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Brent Goose Branta bernicla A 2007 2006 2007 2007 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Wa, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna 2007 2007 2007 2007 Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope 2007 2007 2007 2007 American Wigeon Anas americana A 2002 0 2006 0 Gadwall Anas strepera 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca 2007 2007 2007 2007 Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis A 2004 2004 2002 0 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 2007 2007 2007 2007 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 2007 2007 2007 2007 Garganey Anas querquedula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Blue-winged Teal Anas discors BBRC 1989 1989 2001 0 Shoveler Anas clypeata 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Wa, Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 2007 2007 2007 2007 Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris A 2006 2005 2007 2001 Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca A 2007 2006 2006 1998 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Greater Scaup Aythya marila 2007 2007 2007 2007

219 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis BBRC 2007 2006 2006 0 Common Eider Somateria mollissima A 1993 2001 2002 1993 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis A 2005 2006 2006 2005 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata A 1986 2000 0 0 Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca A 2005 1985 2004 1994 Bufflehead Bucephala albeola BBRC 2004 0 2004 2004 Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Smew Mergellus albellus Wo, WM 2007 2006 2007 2006 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator A 2007 2007 2007 2006 Goosander Mergus merganser 2007 2007 2007 2007 Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Wo, Wa, WM 0 0 2007 1868 Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix A 0 1915 2003 1897 Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa 2007 2007 2007 2007 Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata A 2006 1997 2007 2001 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica A 2007 1995 2000 1997 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A 2007 2004 2007 2003 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A 2006 2005 2006 1996 Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus A 2007 2002 2007 2003 Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Wa, Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis A 2004 2000 1993 1996 Coryʼs Shearwater Calonectris diomedea A 0 0 1971 0 Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus A 2006 2006 2006 2004 European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus A 1983 2003 1990 1970 Leachʼs Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa A 2007 2006 2007 2006 Northern Gannet Morus bassanus A 2007 2007 2006 2006 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 2007 2007 2007 2007 Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A 2006 2004 2006 2005 Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris A 2007 2007 2007 2005 Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus BBRC 1981 1865 1901 <1836 Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax A 2001 1983 2000 2004 Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides BBRC 0 2007 2004 0 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis BBRC 1994 1993 1987 0 Little Egret Egretta garzetta WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great White Egret Ardea alba A 2007 2007 2007 2002 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2007 2007 2007 2007 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea A 1990 2000 2005 0 Black Stork Ciconia nigra BBRC 0 1956 1985 0 White Stork Ciconia ciconia A 2005 2005 2005 2005 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus BBRC 0 0 2006 0 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia A 2007 2001 2007 2002 Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus A 2007 2004 2006 2004 Black Kite Milvus migrans A 0 1986 1991 2004 Red Kite Milvus milvus WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla A 1891 1945 1905 0 Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Wo, Wa, WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A 2007 2006 2007 2007 Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus A 2005 2006 2006 1951 Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo 2007 2007 2007 2007 Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus A 2005 1979 2001 1996 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos A 0 0 nk 0 Osprey Pandion haliaetus Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2006 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2007 2007 2007 2007

220 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus A 2003 2001 2002 0 Merlin Falco columbarius WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Hobby Falco subbuteo 2007 2007 2007 2007 Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus BBRC 1852 0 <1844 0 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Water Rail Rallus aquaticus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Spotted Crake Porzana porzana A 2007 2002 2006 1998 Little Crake Porzana parva BBRC 1974 0 0 0 Corn Crake Crex crex A 2005 1988 1988 1965 Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Coot Fulica atra 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Crane Grus grus A 2003 2004 2006 2005 Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax BBRC 0 0 c1899 <1893 Great Bustard Otis tarda BBRC 0 c1825 0 0 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus BBRC 1987 2006 1995 0 Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus A 2001 1996 2006 2007 Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola BBRC 1996 1994 0 0 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 2007 2007 2007 2007 Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus A 1993 1940 1995 0 Dotterel Charadrius morinellus A 2002 2006 2007 1978 American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica A 1991 0 0 0 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria 2007 2007 2007 2007 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola WM 2007 2007 2006 2007 White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus BBRC 1975 0 0 0 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red Knot Calidris canutus WM 2007 2007 2007 2006 Sanderling Calidris alba WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Little Stint Calidris minuta WM 2007 2007 2007 2004 Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii A 2006 2006 2006 2005 Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla BBRC 2002 1988 2002 0 White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis A 0 1996 1989 0 Bairdʼs Sandpiper Calidris bairdii BBRC 1996 0 2005 0 Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos A 2007 2006 2007 2006 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea WM 2007 2007 2007 2002 Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima A 1993 1988 2000 1985 Dunlin Calidris alpina 2007 2007 2007 2007 Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus BBRC 1985 0 2004 0 Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis A 1995 0 1980 0 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 2007 2007 2007 2007 Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Snipe Gallinago media BBRC <1886 0 1954 1995 Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus BBRC 1983 2006 0 0 Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 2007 2007 2007 2007 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 2007 2007 2007 2007 Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda BBRC 1851 0 0 0 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Wa, WM 2006 2007 2007 2005 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis BBRC 0 0 1974 0 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2007 2007 2007 2007 Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BBRC 0 0 1995 0 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Wo, WM, 2007 2007 2007 2005 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2007 2007 2007 2007 Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius BBRC 2007 0 2005 2004

221 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Turnstone Arenaria interpres WM 2007 2007 2007 2004 Wilsonʼs Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor BBRC 1996 2007 0 0 Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus A 2000 2007 2004 1893 Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus A 1997 1999 2007 1985 Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus A 2007 1996 2005 2000 Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus A 2003 1987 2004 1991 Great Skua Stercorarius skua A 2007 2000 2006 1994 Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla BBRC 0 2005 0 1997 Franklinʼs Gull Larus pipixcan BBRC 2002 0 2006 0 Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis A 1998 2006 2006 1996 Common Gull Larus canus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Herring Gull Larus argentatus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Kumlienʼs Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni A 2001 2005 1999 0 Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla 2007 2007 2007 2007 Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Bonaparteʼs Gull Chroicocephalus philadelphia BBRC 1992 0 1996 0 Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Sabineʼs Gull Xema sabini A 1989 2007 2006 0 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica BBRC 2006 <1901 1989 1896 Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia BBRC 1993 1971 1999 1979 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Wa, Wo, WM 2007 2007 2007 2005 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii A 2002 1999 2006 0 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 2007 2007 2007 2007 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 2007 2007 2007 2007 Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata BBRC 0 0 1852 0 Little Tern Sternula albifrons A 2007 2005 2006 2007 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida BBRC 2005 1994 2005 0 Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2007 2007 2007 2006 White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus A 2005 2000 2005 1977 Common Guillemot Uria aalge A nk 0 1920 1980 Razorbill Alca torda A nk 1953 0 1912 Little Auk Alle alle A 2007 1998 2001 1999 Puffin Fratercula arctica A 1984 1963 1983 1999 Pallasʼs Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus BBRC 1888 1888 1908 1888 Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2007 2007 2007 2007 Stock Dove Columba oenas 2007 2007 2007 2007 Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2007 2007 2007 2007 Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur St 2007 2007 2007 2007 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri A 2007 2007 2006 2007 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Barn Owl Tyto alba 2007 2007 2007 2007 Little Owl Athene noctua 2007 2007 2007 2007 Tawny Owl Strix aluco 2007 2007 2007 2007 Long-eared Owl Asio otus Wa, Wo, WM, 2007 2006 2007 2007 Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus WM 2007 2007 2007 2006 Tengmalmʼs Owl Aegolius funereus BBRC 0 1901 0 0 European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2005 2007 2005 White-throated Needle-tail Hirundapus caudacutus BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Common Swift Apus apus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Alpine Swift Apus melba A 2003 1997 1996 1988 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 2007 2007 2007 2007

222 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon BBRC 0 0 2005 0 European Bee-eater Merops apiaster A 1886 2007 0 1955 European Roller Coracias garrulus BBRC 0 0 1908 0 Hoopoe Upupa epops A 2006 2007 2007 2006 Wryneck Jynx torquilla A 2007 2007 2005 2006 Green Woodpecker Picus viridis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major 2007 2007 2007 2007 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 2007 2007 2007 2007 Wood Lark Lullula arborea A 2007 2007 2007 2004 Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris A 1994 2003 2002 2006 Sand Martin Riparia riparia 2007 2007 2007 2007 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica A 2004 2001 2006 0 House Martin Delichon urbicum 2007 2007 2007 2007 Richardʼs Pipit Anthus richardi A 2001 2007 2002 1994 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus A 1994 0 0 0 Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus petrosus WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis A 2007 1997 2005 2006 Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta A 2007 2007 2007 2005 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima 2007 2007 2007 2007 Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Spanish Wagtail Motacilla flava iberiae A 0 1982 1993 0 Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava thunbergi A 0 0 0 1996 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola BBRC 1997 0 0 0 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 2007 2007 2007 2007 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii 2007 2007 2007 2007 White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba All (autumn) 2007 2007 2007 2007 Waxwing Bombycilla garrulusAll 2006 2007 2005 2006 Dipper Cinclus cinclus gularis Wa, WM 1991 2007 2007 2006 Black-bellied Dipper Cinclus cinclus cinclus A 1996 0 0 0 Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 2007 2007 2007 2007 Dunnock Prunella modularis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris BBRC nk 0 0 0 Robin Erithacus rubecula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Wa, St, WM 2007 2007 1988 1979 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A 1995 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2007 2007 2007 2007 Stonechat Saxicola torquata 2007 2007 2007 2007 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 2007 2007 2007 2007 Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Whiteʼs Thrush Zoothera dauma BBRC 1895 0 0 0 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Wa 2007 2007 2007 2007 Blackbird Turdus merula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Dusky Thrush Turdus naumanni BBRC 0 1979 0 0 Dark-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis BBRC 0 1996 1978 0 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2007 2007 2007 2007 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2007 2007 2007 2007 Redwing Turdus iliacus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti A 2007 2007 2007 2001 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia 2007 2007 2007 2007 River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis BBRC 0 0 1996 0

223 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Saviʼs Warbler Locustella luscinioides A 2004 1999 1977 0 Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola A 2005 1983 0 0 Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris A 2001 2005 1996 1982 Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus BBRC 2005 0 2007 0 Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina A 1997 1942 1993 0 Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta A 2000 0 1996 0 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 2007 2007 2007 2007 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 2007 2007 2007 2007 Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria A 1979 0 0 0 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata A 1914 2005 2007 2007 Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis A 0 0 1993 0 Pallasʼs Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus A 2001 1987 1970 0 Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus A 1996 2003 2006 1998 Humeʼs Warbler Phylloscopus humei BBRC 0 0 1994 0 Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus BBRC 0 0 0 1996 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wa 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 2007 2007 2007 2007 Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. tristis A 2007 2006 2005 1994 Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. abietinus A 2005 2007 2005 1991 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla A 2007 2007 2007 2007 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 2007 2007 2007 2007 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva A 2004 0 0 0 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Wa 2007 2007 2007 2007 Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A 2006 2004 2004 1993 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Marsh Tit Poecile palustris WM 2007 2007 2007 2007 Willow Tit Poecile montana Wo 2007 2007 2007 2007 Coal Tit Periparus ater 2007 2007 2007 2007 Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Great Tit Parus major 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea 2007 2007 2007 2007 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 2007 2007 2007 2007 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus A 2005 2000 1997 1990 Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 2005 2000 2006 2003 Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor BBRC 0 1987 0 0 Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor A 2006 2007 2007 1998 Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator A 0 1893 0 1999 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius 2007 2007 2007 2007 Magpie Pica pica 2007 2007 2007 2007 Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 0 1826 0 0 Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Rook Corvus frugilegus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Carrion Crow Corvus corone 2007 2007 2007 2007 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix A 1987 1983 1994 1984 Common Raven Corvus corax 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris 2007 2007 2007 2007 Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus A 2001 2005 2002 2004 House Sparrow Passer domesticus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2007 2007 2007 2007 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 2007 2007 2007 2007 European Serin Serinus serinus A 2002 1981 2001 0 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris 2007 2007 2007 2007

224 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 2007 2007 2007 2007 Siskin Carduelis spinus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Linnet Carduelis cannabina 2007 2007 2007 2007 Twite Carduelis flavirostris A 2006 2002 2006 2003 Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 2007 2007 2007 2007 Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea A 2007 2006 2007 2006 Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni A 0 2002 1996 0 Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera BBRC 0 1838 1980 0 Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Wa, WM 2006 2007 2007 2005 Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus A 2003 0 0 0 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 2007 2007 2007 2007 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes St, Wa, WM 2006 2007 2006 2006 Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus A 1981 2007 2005 2005 Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis A 2007 2007 2007 1997 Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos BBRC 0 2005 0 0 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2007 2007 2007 2007 Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus A 1959 1983 1951 1950 Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica A 0 1987 0 0 Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla A 1902 2005 2005 2003 Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus 2007 2007 2007 2007 Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala BBRC 2004 0 0 0 Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra 2007 2007 2007 2007 Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula BBRC 0 0 0 1968

Species in Appendix 1 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Great White Pelican Pelicanus onocrotalus A 1975 2001 0 0 Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber A 0 1968 1988 1968 Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus A 1991 0 2007 2005 Snow Goose Anser caerulescens A 2006 2003 2006 2003 Rossʼs Goose Anser rossii A 2004 1999 2006 1999 Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii A 2007 2000 2007 2005 Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis A 1973 2007 2007 0 Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea A 2006 2007 2007 2006 Falcated Duck Anas falcata A 2005 0 2007 0 Baikal Teal Anas formosa A 2005 0 0 0 Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostrisA 1990 0 1993 2001 Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus A 2007 0 0 0 White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala A 0 0 2003 0 Saker Falco cherrug A 2003 0 2002 0 Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus A 2005 2006 2006 1985 Lady Amherstʼs Pheasant Chrysolophus amherstiae A 2002 2002 0 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 2006 0 0 0 Red-headed Bunting Emberiza bruniceps A 1976 0 1977 0 Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea A 2006 0 0 0

Grand Total Region 342 County 307 299 312 271 Total in 2006 Region 228 County 204 198 202 171 The county totals exclude all subspecies and races and those species in Appendices 1 and 2 of the Regional List.

Note: The records of Red and Black Grouse on the West Midlands list refer to Sutton Park which, at the time of the records, was part of Warwickshire.

225 Gazetteer

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

Warwickshire Abbey Fields SP2872 Brownsover SP5176 Eathorpe SP3969 Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Bubbenhall SP3672 Edge Hill SP3747 Alcester SP0857 Bulkington SP3986 Edge Hill Wood Alcester Heath SP0659 Bunkers Hill Wood SP4869 (Kingsbury) SP2398 Alcester STW SP0956 Burton Dassett SP3951 Edstone SP1761 Alvecote Pools SK2504 Burton Old Covert SP4051 Ennister Wood SP0754 Alveston SP2356 Butlers End SP2384 Ensors Pool SP3490 Arbury Park SP3389 Ettington SP2649 Arley SP2890 Calcutt SP4664 Exhall SP3485 Armscote SP2444 Caldecote SP3494 Arrow SP0856 Camp Hill SP3393 Farnborough SP4349 Arrow Valley NR SP0858 Chadshunt SP3452 Farnborough Park SP4249 Ashorne SP3057 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Fenny Compton SP4152 Atherstone SP3097 Charlecote GP SP2657 Fenny Compton Hills SP4051 Attleborough Fields SP3890 Charlecote Park SP2656 Fenny Compton – Avon Dassett SP4149 Cherington SP2936 Oxford Canal SP4352 Chessetts Wood SP1973 Fillongley SP2887 Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Chesterton Pools SP3558 Fisherʼs Mill GP SP2099 Baddesley Common SP2797 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Flecknoe SP5163 Baginton Airport SP3574 Church Lawford SP4476 Forest of Arden Hotel SP2285 Baginton Lagoons SP3673 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Forshaw Heath SP0873 Baginton Old Clopton SP2056 Frog Hall SP4173 Bird Sanctuary SP3674 Close Wood SP2584 Fulbrook SP2560 Barford SP2760 Clowes Wood SP0973 Barton SP1051 Coldcomfort Wood SP0758 Galley Common SP3192 Baxterley SP2797 Coleshill SP2089 Gaydon SP3654 Bearley SP1760 Coleshill GP SP2090 Grandborough SP4966 Bearley Bushes SP1860 Combrook SP3051 Great Alne SP1159 Beausale SP2470 Compton Verney SP3152 Gredenton Hill SP4051 Bedworth SP3686 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Grendon SP2799 Bedworth Nook SP3486 Copdock Hill SP2559 Greyʼs Mallory SP3061 Bentley Woods SP2895 Copt Green SP1769 Griff SP3588 Bermuda SP3589 Corley SP2985 Guyʼs Cliffe SP2966 Bidford Grange GC SP1152 Corley Moor SP2885 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Corn Ground Spinney SP4354 Halford SP2645 Binton Bushes SP1453 Coton Pools SP2194 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Birchmoor SK2501 Crackley Wood SP2874 Hampton Wood SP2559 Bishopʼs Bowl Lakes SP3858 Crimscote SP2347 Hams Hall SP2091 Bishopʼs Itchington SP3857 Crimscote Downs SP2246 Harbury SP3759 Bishopʼs Tachbrook SP3161 Crown Hill SP3462 Harbury Heath SP3758 Bishopton SP1856 Cryfield SP2975 Harbury Lane SP3361 Black Martin Hill SP2747 Cubbington SP3468 Hartshill SP3293 Blythe Mill SP2190 Cubbington Woods SP3568 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Curdworth SP1793 Hartshill Quarry SP3394 Bourton-on-Dunsmore SP4370 Hartshill STW SP3395 Bowshot Wood SP3053 DMC Kineton SP3651 Haseley SP2368 Brailes SP3139 Dordon SK2600 Haselor SP1257 Bramcote Hall SK2704 Dosthill Lake SP2098 Hatton SP2367 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Draycote Water SP4669 Haunch Lane Flood SP2094 Brandon Wood SP3976 Drayton SP1655 Henley-in-Arden SP1465 Bretford SP4277 Dunchurch SP4871 Henley GC SP1466 Bridgetown Fields SP2153 Dunnington SP0653 Hoar Park Wood SP2693 Brinklow SP4379 Dunsmore Heath SP4372 Hodnell Pool SP4256 Broadwells Wood SP2875 SP2472 Broom SP0953 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Hunscote SP2454

226 Ilmington SP2143 New Waters SP2963 Spernall Park SP1062 Ilmington Downs SP1942 Newbold Comyn SP3465 Stockingford SP3391 Itchington Holt SP3755 Newbold-on-Stour SP2446 Stockton SP4365 Newbold Quarry SP2957 Stonebridge SP2182 Judkins Quarry SP3493 Newbold Revel SP4580 Stoneleigh SP3372 North Warwickshire GC SP2285 Stoneleigh Park SP3171 Kenilworth SP2971 Northend SP3952 Stoneton Moat SP4654 Kineton SP3351 SP2263 Stratford Heath SP2253 Kings Newnham SP4577 Nuneaton SP3691 Stratford Racecourse SP1953 Kingsbury SP2196 Nursery Wood SP2963 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Kingsbury Colliery SP2398 Stretton-on-Fosse SP2238 Kingsbury Oil Depot SP2297 Oakley Wood SP3059 Stretton-under-Fosse SP4581 Kingsbury Rifle Range SP2296 Oaks Farm SP2771 Stubbs Pool SP3393 Kingsbury Water Park SP2097 Offchurch SP3565 Studley SP0763 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Offchurch Bury SP3466 Studley Castle SP0864 Kingswood SP1871 Oldberrow SP1166 Sweet Knowle SP2048 Kinwalsey SP2585 Oldbury SP3194 Swift Valley CP SP5078 Kinwarton SP1058 Over Whitacre SP2590 Kites Hardwick SP4668 Oversley Wood SP1056 Temple Pool SP3744 Knightcote SP4055 Oxhill SP3145 Toft Farm Lakes SP4868 Tredington SP2543 Ladbroke SP4158 Packington Park SP2283 Tysoe SP3444 Ladywalk SP2191 Packwood SP1772 Langley SP1962 Park Wood SP1958 Ufton SP3762 Lapworth SP1671 Piles Coppice SP3876 Ufton Fields SP3861 Lapworth Park SP1669 Pillerton Hersey SP3048 Ullenhall SP1267 Lawford Heath Tip/GP SP4473 Pillerton Priors SP2947 Umberslade SP1371 Lea Marston Pools SP2093 Polesworth SK2602 Upper Radbourn SP4458 Leamington Hastings SP4467 Pooley Fields NR SK2503 Upper Shuckburgh SP4961 Leamington Spa SP3165 Poolfields SP3253 Upper Spernall SP1162 Leek Wootton SP2868 Poors Piece SP3393 Upton Park SP3645 Lighthorne SP3355 Preston Bagot SP1765 Lighthorne Pools SP3356 Preston-on-Stour SP2049 Wappenbury Wood SP3770 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Princethorpe SP4070 Warmington SP4147 Lillington SP3367 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Warwick SP2864 Long Compton SP2832 Priors Marston SP4957 Warwick Castle Park SP2863 Long Itchington SP4165 Warwick Racecourse SP2764 Long Lawford SP4776 Radford Semele SP3464 Wasperton SP2658 Long Marston SP1548 Radway SP3748 Watergall SP4255 Long Shoot, The SP3992 Ragley Park SP0755 Weddington SP3693 Longbridge SP2662 Ratley SP3847 Wedgnock Park SP2666 Longbridge STW SP2763 Rowington SP2069 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Lower Brailes SP3139 Rugby SP5175 Wellesbourne SP2755 Lower Clopton SP1957 Ryton-on-Dunsmore SP3874 Wellesbourne Airfield SP2655 Lower Radbourn SP4457 Ryton Pools CP SP3772 Wellesbourne Wood SP2653 Lower Shuckburgh SP4862 Ryton Wood SP3872 Weston-on-Avon SP1650 Loxley SP2552 Weston-under- Salford Priors SP0751 Wetherley SP3669 Marlcliff SP0950 Salford Priors GP SP0752 Whichford Wood SP3034 Marston Jabbett SP3788 Sawbridge SP5065 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Maxstoke SP2386 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Whitacre Heath NR SP2092 Maxstoke Castle SP2289 Shelfield Green SP1261 Whitnash SP3263 Meon Hill SP1745 Sherbourne SP2661 Whitnash GC SP3262 Middleton SP1798 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Whittleford Park SP3291 Middleton Hall SP1998 Shottery SP1854 Wilmcote SP1657 Milcote SP1752 Shrewley SP2167 Windmill Hill NR SP3493 Moreton Morrell SP3155 Shuckburgh Hills and Wishaw SP1794 Morton Bagot SP1064 Park SP4961 Withybrook SP4384 Shustoke Res SP2291 Wixford SP0854 Napton Hill SP4561 Snitterfield SP2159 Wolfhampcote SP5265 Napton Res SP4662 Snitterfield Bushes SP1960 Wolston SP4175 Nether Whitacre SP2392 Southam SP4161 Wolverton SP2062 New Fallings Coppice SP1074 Spernall SP0862 Wolvey SP4287

227 Woolscott SP4968 Wootton Wawen STW SP1462 Yarningale Common SP1865 Wootton Pool SP1563 Wormleighton SP4454 Wootton Wawen SP1563 Wormleighton ReservoirSP4451

Worcestershire Abberton SO7567 Clent Hills SO6973 Holt Prairies SO8979 Arrow Valley Golf Clevelode SO9875 Honeybourne SO8381 Course SO7467 Clifton SO9735 Arrow Valley Lake SO7566 Clifton Pit SO9736 Ipsley Alders SO8974 Arrow Valley North SO9953 Cofton Richards SO5767 Ashmoor Common SP0569 Cofton Richards Farm SO8456 Kempsey STW SO5862 Aston Mill SO7745 Conderton SO9177 Kington SO8180 Astwood Bank SP0355 Coombegreen Common SO9377 Kinsham Lake SO8081 Axborough SO9279 Corn Brook SO9538 Kyre SO6170 Cowsdon SP0443 Kyre Brook SP0469 Barnett Brook SO7750 Croome Landscape Barnt Green SP0573 Park SP0669 Lenchwick SP0370 Beacon Wood SO7453 Cropthorne SP0568 Lickmoor Wetland SP0371 Beaconhill Wood SO7452 Lineholt SO8264 Beckford SP0272 Deblinʼs Green SO8857 Lion Wood SO9856 Beckford Conservation Defford SO7641 Little Comberton SO9042 Pit SO7778 Devilʼs Spittleful SO7934 Lodge Hill Farm SO94/95 Belbroughton SO7356 Dowles Brook SO7638 Longdon Marsh SO9355 Berkeley SO8555 Lower Moor SO9861 Berkeley Pendesham SO8070 Eckington SO7458 Lower Moor STW SO8979 Bevere Lock SO7871 Eckington Bridge SO7458 Lower Wick SO8248 Birchen Coppice SO7680 Eckington Meadows SO7933 Lyppard Hanford SO7852 Birtsmorton Pools SO8082 Evesham SP0977 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0569 Eymore Wood SO9144 Madresfield SO8053 Bittell Reservoir SP0567 Malvern Hills SO8152 Black Hill SP0569 Feckenham SO7276 Malvern Link SO6464 Blackminster SP0665 Feckenham Wylde Mamble SO9681 Blake Mill Plantation SP0374 Moor SO8459 Marlbrook SO9054 Bodenham Arboretum SO7652 Fladbury SO8359 Martley SO9136 Bransford Bridge SO8446 Frankley SO7875 Midsummer Hill SO9038 Bransford Court SO9938 Monk Wood SO9139 Bredicot SO7687 Grafton Reservoir SO9682 Monkwood Green SO9339 Bredon Hill SO8167 Grafton Wood SO6371 Moors Pool SO9135 Bredonʼs Hardwick SO8069 Grimley SO7464 Bricklehampton SO9434 Grimley New Workings SO8081 Nafford Lock SP0943 British Camp SO9435 Grimley Old Workings SO6463 Naunton Beauchamp SO9468 Broadoak Trout Lakes SP0438 Gwen Finch Wetland SO8081 Norchard SO9842 Broadway SP0462 North Hill SO8275 Brotheridge Green SO9365 Habberley Valley SO9343 Northwick SO7640 Broughton Hackett SP0350 Hampton SO7836 Buckland SO8579 Hanbury Church SO8035 Oakley Marsh SO7639 Bury End Flash SO7259 Hangmanʼs Hill SO7935 Oakley Pool SO7639 Bury End River Flash SO6963 Hanley Childe SO9951 Ockeridge Wood SO7756 Bushley SO9847 Hanley Swan SP0049 Old Hills SO8156 Happy Valley SP0050 Old Yarr SO7656 Callow End SP0048 Hartlebury Common SP0050 Oxford SP0937 Callow Hill SP0743 Harvington SO8677 Castlemorton Common SO6463 Harvington Lakes SP0157 Park Brook SP0737 Caunsall SO9967 Heightington Brook SP0174 Pensax SP0837 Chadbury SO8457 Hewell Grange SO7640 Pershore SP1136 Chaddesley Woods SO7845 High Green SO8044 Pipers Hill Common SP0837 Chapter Meadows SO8876 Hill Court Farm SO8657 Pirton Pool SO7653 Chat Valley SO8876 Hill Furze SO7974 Pixham Meadows SO7263 Chateau Impney SP0073 Hillside SO7974 Powick Hams SP0169 Church Lench Pools SP6782 Hollybed Common SO9872 Churchill SO8653 Hollybush Quarry SO8979 Redditch SO9570 Cleeve Prior SO8741 Holt SO8878 Ripple SO7551

228 Rock Coppice SO8649 Strensham SO7473 Upton-upon-Severn Rodge Hill SO6770 Strensham Lagoons SO7475 Upper Ham SO7746 Rous Lench SO9078 Summerfield SP1137 Rushock SO8241 Sweet Green SO8359 Wadborough SO9164 Ryall Pits SO8241 Swinyard Hill SO8474 Walton Hill SO8862 Wassell Grove SO5762 Salwarpe SO8741 West of England QuarrySP0738 Table Hill SO7950 Sapey Brook SO9561 Westmancote SP0668 Tank Quarry SO93 Saxonʼs Lode SO9254 Westwood Pool SO9154 Tanwood SO8181 Sedgeberrow SO9661 Wharton Park Golf Club SP0251 Tardebigge Reservoir SO7937 Shadybank Common SO8960 Wick SP0250 Tenbury Wells SO7839 Shatterford Woods SO7274 Wilden SO8879 Throckmorton Airfield SO9573 Shaverʼs End SO8073 Wildmoor Sand Quarry SO8558 Throckmorton Lagoons SO8581 Shelsley SO8072 Wildmoor Tip SP0748 Tiddesley Wood SP0246 Shenstone SO7673 Witnellʼs End SP0849 Trench Wood SO0246 Sheriffs Lench SO8639 Wood Norton SO9379 Trimpley Reservoir SO9073 Shrawley Wood SO8981 Woodmancote SO8551 South Littleton SO8734 Woodrow SO8346 Southcrest Pool SO8634 Upper Arley SO8873 Worcester SO8444 Spetchley Park Pool SO8772 Upper Broadheath SO9173 Worcestershire Beacon SO7261 St Johns SO9478 Upton Warren SP0145 Wychbold SO8445 Stanford Bridge SO9148 Upton-upon-Severn SO7635 Wyre Forest SO8446 Stoke Bliss SO9148 Upton-upon-Severn Storridge SO8349 STW SO9073 Yeald Wood SO8446

Staffordshire Abrahamʼs Valley SK0020 Blithfield Reservoir SK0523 Colshaw SK0467 Acton Trussell SJ9318 Bloreheath SJ7134 Colwich SK0120 Admaston SK0422 Boarsgrove SK0462 Combridge SK0937 Agardsley Park SK1327 Bobbington SO8191 Coombes Valley SK0052 Alrewas SK1814 Brackenhurst SK1422 Copmere SJ8029 Alrewas Junction Pit SK1815 Brancote SJ9622 Cotes Heath SJ8335 Alstonefield SK1355 Brancote STW SJ9522 Cotton Dell SK0545 Alton SK0742 Branston GP SK2020 Cowley SJ8218 Anneʼs Well Wood SJ8424 Branston Water Park SK2220 Crakemarsh Lake SK0936 Apedale CP SJ8148 Broad Heath SJ8525 Creswell Piece SJ9545 Aqualate SJ7720 Broadmeadow SK1903 Cross Hayes SK1222 Ash Wood SJ8224 Bromley Park SK1125 Crossplains SK1624 Aston-by-Stone SJ9131 Brookleys Lake SK0943 Croxall NR SK1814 Astonfields Balancing Brown Edge SJ9053 Croxden Quarry SK0341 Lakes SJ9224 Burton-on-Trent SK2523 Cuckoo Bank SK0310 Audley SJ7950 Bushton SK2026 Byrkley Park SK1623 Danebridge SJ9665 Back Forest SJ9865 Denstone Hall SK0940 Baddeley Green SJ9051 Caltonmoor SK1148 Derrington SJ8922 Baggeridge CP SO8992 Calwich Abbey SK1243 Dosthill SP2099 Barleighford SJ9463 Cannock Chase SJ9816 Downs Banks SJ9036 Barton GP SK2017 Cart Low SK1051 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Barton Marina SK2018 Castletown Pool SJ9123 Drakelow NR SK2219 Baswich SJ9422 Catholme SK1915 Draycott-in-the-Clay SK1429 Batchacre Hall SJ7524 Caverswall SJ9542 Drayton Bassett Pits SK1900 Bateswood Lake SJ7948 Chapel Chorlton SJ8137 Dunstall SK0726 Bearda SJ9664 Chasewater Reservoir SK0307 Dunstall Cricket Ground SK1820 Beresford Dale SK1259 Chatterley Whitfield SJ8853 Berry Hill SJ9046 Cheadle SK0143 East Bishton SK0320 Biddulph Grange SJ8959 Checkhill Mill SO8587 Ecton SK0958 Bilbrook SJ8803 Checkley SK0237 Eland Brook SK1426 Bishopʼs Wood SJ7431 Cheddleton Valley SJ9851 Eland Lodge SK1427 Black Brook SJ7638 Chillington SJ8506 Elford Gravel Pits SK1810 Blackbrook Bird World SK0451 Clay Mills SK2626 Ellenhall SJ8526 Blake Brook SK0761 Cloud, The SJ9063 Ellerton Grange SJ7225 Blake Hall Fishery SJ9943 Coldmeece SJ8532 Endon SJ9253 Blake Low SK1146 Coley Brook Marsh SJ7818 Enson SJ9328

229 Enville Hall SO8386 JCB North Lake SK1039 Old Mixon Hay SK0258 Essington Quarry SJ9403 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Onecote SK0355 Fair Lady Coppice SK0108 Keele SJ8245 Onecote Moor SK0456 Fauld SK1828 Keele University SJ8244 Orchard Common SK0269 Fauld Industrial Estate SK1928 Kemsey Manor SJ7624 Orgreave SK1415 Fenton Industrial Estate SJ8945 Kettlebrook Lakes SK2203 Ousley Cross SK1244 Fernhill SJ7522 Kingʼs Bromley SK1116 Outwoods SJ7618 Fisherwick SK1709 Kinver Edge SO8382 Five Clouds SK0062 Knotbury SK0168 Packington Moor SK1505 Fleet Green SK0561 Knotbury SK0168 Park Banks SK0842 Fleet Green SK0561 Knypersley Reservoir SJ8955 Park Hall CP SJ9244 Ford SK0654 Parkgate SK1044 Ford Grange SK0653 Lady Edge SK0562 Penkridge SJ9214 Four Ashes SJ9108 Ladysmith Farm SK1122 Penn Common SO8994 Frith Bottom SJ9961 Lawnhead SJ8224 Pershall SJ8130 Froghall SK0247 Levedale SJ9016 Pethills SK0365 Furnace Grange SO8596 Leyfields SK1625 Pipe Gate SJ7340 Little Aston SK0900 Pipe Green SK1009 Little Ferneyford SK0661 Punchbowl SJ9820 Gailey SJ9310 Little Stoke SJ9133 Gentleshaw Common SK0511 Little Wyrley SK0105 Quixhill SK1041 Gib Torr SK0264 Loggerheads SJ7336 Gig Hall SJ9564 Longnor SK0864 Radford Meadows SJ9321 Gnosall SJ8321 Lower Cowley SJ8218 Ranton SJ8524 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Lower Ellastone SK1142 Ranton Abbey SJ8323 Gradbach Hill SJ9965 Lower Loxley SK0532 Readyleach Green SK0268 Great Gate SK0540 Lower Penn SO8695 Revidge SK0759 Greenway Bank CP SJ8955 Lum Edge SK0659 Rickerscote SJ9320 Grindon Moor SK0655 Rifle Range SJ9917 Gun Hill SJ9662 Maer Hills SJ7739 Rising Brook SJ9221 Marquis Drive SK0015 River Sow Meadows SJ9522 Hales SJ7133 Meaford SJ8835 Roaches, The SK0063 Hales Hall Pool SK0143 Meerbrook SJ9861 Rocester SK1039 Hall Dale SK1353 Meir SJ9340 Rolleston Park SK2126 Hanchurch Woods SJ8340 Mermaid Inn SK0360 Roost Hill SK1224 Handsacre Flash SK0916 Middle Hills SK0363 Round Knowl Farm SK0562 Hanley Park SJ8846 Middle Mayfield SK1444 Rudyard Lake SJ9459 Harpers Marsh SJ9557 Milford SJ9721 Rugeley SK0417 Hatherton SJ9510 Milldale SK1354 Haughton SJ8620 Million Plantation SO8486 Scotch Hill SK1622 Hawksmoor SK0344 Millmeece SJ8333 Seighford SJ8824 Haywood Warren SJ9919 Milton SJ9051 Shebdon SJ7625 Highfield SJ9458 Mixon Hay SK0357 Shugborough SJ9922 Hill Ridware SK0717 Moneystone SK0546 Sideway SJ8743 Himley SO8892 Morridge SK0257 Sittles SK1712 Hixon Airfield SJ9926 Moss Carr SK0765 Soles Hill SK0952 Hoar Cross SK1223 Mosslee Hall Farm SK0050 Spring Slade SJ9716 Holden Lane Pools SJ8950 Musden Low SK1150 Stableford SJ8138 Hole Valley SK0942 Musden Wood SK1151 Stafford SJ9223 Hollies Common SJ8122 Stanley Pool SJ9351 Hollington SK0539 Napley SJ7137 Stanshope SK1254 Hollinsclough SK0666 Needwood House SK1825 Stanton Dale SK1048 Hollybush Lake SK1326 Newbold Quarry SK2019 Statfold SK2307 Holt Hill SK1226 Newcastle College SJ8446 Stepping Stones SJ9820 Horton SJ9456 Newcastle-under-Lyme SJ8444 Stockley Vale SK2025 Hulme SJ9346 Nield Bank Farm SK0366 Stone SJ9034 Hulme End SK1059 Norbroom Marsh SJ7519 Stone Business Park SJ9032 Huntington SJ9713 Norbury SJ7723 Stonydelph SK2302 North Cotton SK0647 Strawberry Hill SK0019 Ilam SK1350 Sugnall SJ7930 Ingestre SJ9724 Oakamoor SK0544 Swainsley SK0957 Ipstones Edge SK0250 Okeover Mill SK1648 Swallow Moss SK0660

230 Swineholes Wood SK0450 Trysull SO8493 Wettonmill SK0956 Swynnerton SJ8436 Turn Edge SK0167 Whiston SJ8914 White House SJ9916 Tameside NR SK2002 Upper Elkstone SK0559 Whitemoor Haye SK1813 Tamworth SK2004 Upper Tean SK0139 Whitmore SJ8040 The Clive Farm SO8297 Uttoxeter Quarry SK0935 Whitmore Bent Lane SJ8139 Thick Withens SK0466 Wimblebury SK0111 Thorʼs Cave SK0954 Walk Farm SK0947 Winnington SJ7238 Thorswood SK1147 Wall SK0906 Wolf Edge SK0267 Three Shires Head SK0068 Waterfall SK0851 Wolfscote Dale SK1357 Throwley Hall SK0952 Watermills Wood SJ8148 Wolseley Bridge SK0220 Throwleymoor Farm SK1052 Weaver Farm SK1046 Wombourne STW SO8592 Tittesworth Reservoir SJ9960 Weaver Hills SK0946 Woodmill SK1321 Tixall SJ9722 West End SJ8744 Trent Vale SJ8644 Weston Jones SJ7524 Yarnfield SJ8632 Trentham Gardens SJ8640 Westport Lake SJ8550 Yoxall Park SK1521 Trysull SO8493 Wetley Moor SJ9348

West Midlands Ackers SP0984 Cofton Common SP0176 Harborne SP0284 Acocks Green SP1183 Cole Valley SP1079 Harborne NR SP0385 Alcester Laneʼs End SP0780 Coombeswood SO9785 Hardwick SP0799 Aldridge SK0602 Cornets End SP2280 Hasbury SO9583 Allesley SP2980 Cotwall End Valley LNR SO9192 Hatherton Lake SP0199 Amblecote SO8985 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Hawne Park SO9585 Aston SP0690 Cradley SO9484 Hockley SP0588 Cradley Heath SO9485 Hockley Heath SP1572 Baddesley Clinton SP2076 Cryfield lake SP2979 Balsall Common SP2377 Cuckooʼs Nook SP0598 Keresley SP3282 Barr Beacon SP0696 Ketley Quarry SO8988 Barston SP2078 Dartmouth Park SP0191 Kings Heath SP0781 Bartley Reservoir SP0081 Dorridge SP1574 Kings Heath Park SP0681 Bearwood SP0286 Druids Heath Golf Kingstanding SP0894 Bentley SO9898 Course SK0701 Kingswinford SO8988 Berkswell SP2479 Duddeston SP0887 Knowle SP1876 Bickenhill SP1882 Dudley No.2 Canal SO9487 Big Dickens Wood SP1075 Dudley Wood SO9486 Ladywood SP0586 Bilston Cemetery SO9497 Dunstall Park SJ9000 Lickey Hills SO9976 Bird Town SP1183 Lime Pits Farm SP0399 Birmingham SP0686 Edgbaston SP0584 Longmoor Valley SP0995 Birmingham Mainline Edgbaston Pool SP0584 Lutley Wedge SO9483 Canal SP0487 Edgbaston Reservoir SP0486 Black Patch Park SP0388 Elmdon Park SP1680 Majorʼs Green SP1077 Blackheath SO9686 Erdington SP1191 Marsh Lane NR SP2180 Blackroot Pool SP1097 Marston Green SP1785 Blythe Valley CP SP1375 Farndale SJ9000 Mary Stevens Park SO8983 Boldmere SP1193 Fen End SP2275 Mercote Mill Farm SP2280 Bournville SP0481 Fens Pools SO9188 Meriden Shafts SP2381 Bracebridge Pool SP0998 Fort Dunlop SP1290 Millburn Grange SP3076 Bradmore SO8997 Foxcote SO9383 Minworth STW SP1692 Bradnockʼs Marsh SP2279 Frankley Reservoir SP0080 Mitton SJ8800 Bromford SP1290 Mons Hill SO9392 Brueton Park SP1678 Goscote Valley SK0101 Moor Green SP0682 Bumble Hole LNR SO9588 Gravelly Hill SP1090 Moseley Park SP0783 Burbury SP0983 Great Barr SP0794 Mucklow Hill SO9784 Mushroom Green SO9386 Cannon Hill SP0683 Haden Hill Park SO9585 Catherine-de-Barnes SP1780 Hall Green SP1181 National Exhibition Chadbrook Walkway SP0184 Hampton Coppice SP1681 Centre SP1983 Chadwick End SP2173 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Netherton SO9488 Chelmsley Wood SP1886 Handsworth Park SP0390 Netherton Reservoir SO9387 Clayhanger SK0304 Handsworth Wood SP0590 New Fallings Coppice SP1074

231 Old Park SO9896 Saltwells LNR SO9387 Vigo SK0402 Old Swinford SO9083 Sandwell Valley SP0392 Oldwych Lane STW SP2174 Sceptre Park SP1382 Walsall SP0198 Olton SP1482 Sedgley SO9293 Walsall Arboretum SP0199 Olton Mere SP1381 Selly Oak SP0382 Walsall Golf Course SP0296 Sheepwash UP SO9791 Warley Woods SP0186 Packhorse Bridge Small Heath SP0985 Warrens Hall SO9588 Reserve SP2180 Smestow Valley SO8899 Warstock SP0979 Park Hall SP0397 Smethwick Hall Park SP0188 Wednesfield SJ9301 Park Lime Pits SP0399 Sneyd SJ9802 West Bromwich SP0091 Pedmore SO9081 Sparkbrook SP0885 West Park SO9099 Penn SO8996 St. Paulʼs SP0687 Westwood Heath SP2776 Perry Beeches SP0593 Stourbridge SO9084 Whitley SP3576 Perry Hall Park SP0591 Stubbers Green SK0401 Willenhall SO9799 Pooles Lane SJ9701 Sutton Park SP0996 Windsor Fields SO8996 Portway SO9788 Winson Green SP0488 Powellʼs Pool SP1095 Temple Balsall SP2075 Winterbourne SP0583 Priory Park SO9490 Ten Acres SP0581 Wishaw SP1693 The Ards SP1774 Witton Lakes SP0892 Queensbridge SP0782 The Leasowes SO9783 Wollaston SO8884 The Spinney SP1674 Wolverhampton SO9198 Rea Valley SP0682 Thimble End SP1494 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Rednal SP0076 Thimblemill Brook SP0088 Wootton Green SP2278 Reedswood Park SO9999 Tidbury Green SP0975 Wordsley SO8987 Robin Hood Golf Tilehouse Green SP1776 Wrenʼs Nest SO9391 Course SP1280 Tipton SO9592 Wyndley Pool SP1195 Rotton Park SP0487 Titford Pools SO9887 Ryders Mere SK0304 Tyseley SP1184

Key to Contributors The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the Classified Notes. Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone. It would greatly help compilation if observers could give their full set of initials with their records, as this helps to identify them more uniquely and so cuts down the risk of confusion between similar names or sets of initials. AE Abbott AEA EK Bainbridge EKB R Billingsley RBi DJ Abbott DJA J Baker JBak JB Birks JBB S Abbott SAb K Ball KBa K Birks KBi D Ackland DAc DM Banks DMB C Bishop CBis DC Ackland DCA RB Bannon RBB RO Blackmore ROB MJ Adkins MJA J Banton JBan A Blackshaw ABl RF Allaby RFA AJ Barker AJB RM Blindell RMBl S Allcock SAl SRJ Barker SRJB G Blockley GBl G Allen GAl NP Barlow NPB SB Bloomfield SBB JKL Allen JKLA S Barnett SBar S Bodnar SBo PM Andrews PMA E Barratt EBa D Bone DBo SE Andrews SEAn P Bateman PBa M Bonham MBo G Appleton GAp D Bates DBa MD Boote MDBo A Archer AAr J Bates JBat B Boswell BBo MA Arnold MAA S Baverstock SBav R Bowers RBo R Arnold RAr N Bayliss NBa JJ Bowley JJB S Arnold SArn MD Baynes MDBa D Bradford DBrad PJ Arrowsmith PJA S Bell SBe D Bragg DBrag C Arthurton CAr JT Belsey JTB N Brandrick NBr G Atkin GAt J Bennett JBe G Brereton GBre C Attewell CAt C Benton CBe C Brett CBre P Betts PBe S Bridgman SBr M Bailey MBa C Bignell CBig T Brindley TBr

232 C Brittle CBri M Cresswell MCr ND Galloway NDG RC Broadbent RCB I Crutchley ICr CP Ganderton CPG D Bromwich DBro S Cull SCu BC George BCG G Brown GBro A Curran ACu R Gibbons RGi RJ Brown RJB R Currier RCu JCA Gibbs JCAG RM Brown RMB S Gibson SGi M Bruce MBr J Dale JDal GJ Gittens GJG J Bryan JBr H Darwen HDa A Gittings AGi WJ Brydges WJB J Davey JDav P Gittus PGi G Bundy GBu G Davies GDa A Glaisher AGl R Burch RBu RJ Davies RJD MF Godfrey MFG E Burden EBu S Davies SDa D Goodwin DGo JE Burgess JEB J Davis JDa P Goucher PGo D Burns DBu A Davison ADa A Grace AGra DW Burns DWB R Dawkins RDa K Gracie KGr AK Burton AKB JR Dawson JRD M Grant MGr S Burton SBu FA Daysh FAD JR Gray JRG I Butler IBu AR Dean ARD N Greatholder NGr IB Butler IBB T Denny TDe AS Green ASG GRJ Dent GRJD C Green CGr R Cadbury RCad A Dickie ADi MR Green MRG D Cadman DCa M Dingley MDi R Green RGr B Calder BCa SG Dodd SGD S Greer SGr P Callaghan PCa M Doughty MDo FC Gribble FCG Mr Cannon Can P Douthwaite PDo MP Griffiths MPG A Cantrell ACa J Drake JDr J Griffiths JGr K Capps KCa P Drysdale PDr MP Griffiths MPG N Carter NCa RE Duckhouse RED A Grove AGro R Castle RCas D Dunn DDu PJ Gruar PJG SL Cawthray SLC WD Dutton WDD DM Gwilliams DMG M Chadwick MChad P Dykta PDy M Chalmers MChal P Hackett PHac I Chattaway ICh D Eaton DEa AG Hall AGH JA Chester JAC JE Ebrey JEE D Hall DHal ES Clare ESC GH Edmonds GHE L Hallett LHa F Clarke FCl WJ Egmont WJE D Hambidge DHam R Clay RCl L Elliott LEl T Hansard THa GC Clayton GCC V Emery VEm R Harbird RHarb P Clayton PCl DW Emley DWE RE Harbird REH S Clement SCl SM Emley SME S Hares SHa GA Clements GAC J Ensor JEn A Harley AHa K Clements KCl C Evans CEv B Harley BHa KM Clements KMC D Evans DEv J Harris JHa A Cobley ACob G Evans GEv Mr Harris Har SR Cole SRC RJ Evans RJE R Harris RHarr S Collins SCol T Eyre TEy GR Harrison GRH C Common CCom JV Harrison JVH A Cook ACoo SJ Falk SJF G Harrop GHa C Cook CCoo A Farrar AFa P Harvey PHar J Cook JCook G Fellows GFe I Haselock IHa T Cook TCo CT Fennell CTF P Havelock PHav B Cooke BCo J Fife JFif C Hawkridge CHa JL Coombes JLC J Fincham JFin SM Haynes SMH J Cooper JCoop D Firth DFi IM Hayward IMH R Cooper RCoo JE Fletcher JEF B Heaton BHe S Cooper SCoo J Ford JFo RGW Heselden RGWH L Copplestone LCo H Fox HFo Y Heward YHe R Corbett RCor HY Franklin HYF TC Hextell TCH G Corbett-Marshall GCo DL Freeman DLF J Hicks JHic H Cottam HCo R Frost RFr C Hill CHi D Cox DCo R Fussell RFu CE Hill CEH JE Cragg JEC DI Hill DIH JH Craik JHC S Gale SGa J Hill JHil

233 TM Hinett TMH JE Leydon JEL IE Oliver IEO T Holland THo J Liggins JLi M Oliver MOl M Holley MHo A Lilley ALil E Osbaldeston EOs A Holliday AHo M Lindop C Osborne COs G Holmes GHo MLindo M Osborne MOs K Horseman KHo M Lindsey MLinds SJ Osborne SJO EP Hughes EPH A Litvinoff ALit J Owen JOw G Hunt GHu K Longshaw KLo M Hunt MHu Mrs Lovatt Lov L Parkes LPa D Hutton DHu S Lovatt SLo K Patrick KPa PD Hyde PDH WJ Low WJL J Pattinson JPa G Lowe GLo A Pattison APa MJ Inskip MJI J Lowry JLo RA Payne RAPa S Payne SPa AG Jackson AGJ A Mabbett AMa GH Peplow GHP D Jackson DJa MR Macfadyen MRM WF Peplow WFP WT Jackson WTJ J MacMillan JMac G Pepper GPe AF Jacobs AFJ J Maingay JMai L Perkins LPe R James RJa J Mallinson JMal DJ Perks DJP MJ Jeeves MJJ R Mander RMa T Perrins TPe Mr Jeffries Jef GJ Mant GJM BR Perry BRP P Jenkins PJe T Marlow TMa M Perryman MPe R Jennett RJe R Maskew RMa S Petrek SPe DA Jennings DAJ C Mason CMa AJ Pitt AJP PD Jeynes PDJ G Maxwell GMa M Pittaway MPi A Johnson AJo RC Mays RCM E Platt EPl B Jones BJo R McCraight RMc ND Pomiankowski NDP C Jones CJo A Mellor AMe WE Pool WEP G Jones GJo G Metcalf GMe CH Potter CHP J Jones JJo H Miller HMi R Powell RPo P Jones PJon HJ Miller HJM R Pratt RPr T Jones TJo R Minors RMi A Preece APr P Jordan PJor DJ Mitchell DJM MJ Preece MJP JFC Judge JFCJ I Moore IMo C Price CPric A Jukes AJu C Morgan CMo L Price LPr R Jukes RJu D Morgan-Smith DM-S P Price PPr T Morris TMo MS Prina MSP T Kelly TKe JNT Mott JNTM M Print MPr TK Kelly TKK JB Murray JBM C Pritchard CPrit D Kelsall DKe A Murray AMu B Prudden BPr R Key RKe L Murray LMu BG Prudden BGP D King DKi P Mycock PMy RA Prudden RAPr RJ King RJK K Pryce KPr BL Kington BLK PAJ Newman PAJN SEA Pullar SEAP DH Kirkham DHK J Newton JNe RWS Knightbridge RWSK GK Nicholls GKN MP Radford MPR J Knights JKn D Nicklin DNi A Ramsell ARa A Kydd AKy B Noble BNo RB Ratcliffe RBR E Nokes ENo P Reay PRe G Laight GLa TJ Norledge TJN C Reed CRe C Lane CLa R Norris RNo DG Renn DGR CJ Lane CJL JR Northall JRN J Renowden JRe M Law MLa B Nunn BNu D Reynolds DRe S Law SLa S Nuttall SNu S Richards SRi SD Lawley SDL SA Richards SARi JA Lawrence JAL J OʼDell JOʼD JHW Ridley JHWR E Lea ELe J Oakes JOak AW Roberts AWR P Leach PLe N Oakes NOa J Robinson JRobins A Leak ALe NM Oakes NMO J Robinthwaite J Robint CB Lee CBL A Oaklay AOa S Robotham SRob K Lee KLe J Oates JOat R Rock RRo L Lees LLe S Oates SOa C Rogers CRog MJ Lewis MJL C Oines COi S Roper SRop

234 P Roughley PRo A Stevens ASt DRE Walker DREW C Round CRou D Stone DSt DIM Wallace DIMW G Rowling GRo S Stones SSt P Wallace PWa GP Rowling GPR BR Stretch BRS W Waller WWa JM Rushforth JMR CR Stubbs CRS I Ward IWa A Rushton ARu C Summers CSu PJ Ward PJW J Rushton JRu G Summers GSu R Wardle RWa M Russell MRu M Sutton MSu K Warmington KWa S Russell SRu R Sutton RSu A Warr AWa WJ Russell WJR M Sway MSw AD Warren ADW G Russon GRu A Swift ASw C Washington CWa R Russon RRu R Swift RSw RCW Watkins RCWW S Ryan SRy J Taylor JTa D Wawman DWa S Taylor STa M Webster MWe J Sadler JSa R Terry RTe S Webster SWeb MJ Saffery MJSaf JA Thickitt JAT J Weightman JWe MJ Sanderson MJSan A Thomas ATh S Wende SWen DJ Scanlan DJS P Thomas PTh RB Wetherill RBW DA Scattergood DAS RJ Thomas RJT O White OWh P Scoffield PSc G Thompson GTh PF Whitehead PFW A Scott ASc T Thompson TTh IC Whitehouse ICW FM Scott FMS C Thomson CTh SM Whitehouse SMW T Scott TSc J Thorp JTh EK Wilcox EKW S Seal SSe A Tomlinson ATo D Wilkinson DWi JE Seale JES IR Tomlinson IRT AG Williams AGW J Sherratt JSh R Toon RTo DM Williams DMW AM Shore AMS F Towers FTo G Williams GWi A Simons ASi B Tremaine BTr GA Williams GAW W Simpson WSi NP Trotman NPT CS Williamson CSW JH Sirrett JHS T Trueman TTr M Willmott MWi D Skidmore DSk J Turner JTu AWH Wincott AWHW GC Slawson GCS P Turner PTu H Windsor HWi BW Smith BWS S Turner STu M Wingrove MWi J Smith JSm SJ Turner SJT MR Wingrove MRW M Smith MSm T Twydell TTw J Winsper JWi MC Smith MCS B Tymons BTy M Wood MWo NJ Smith NJS SC Wood SCW RL Smith RLS MA Ui Hawker MAU T Woodcock TWo S Smith SSm N Unwin NUn MG Woodhams MGW SC Smith SCS G Woodin GWo P Sofley PSo S Valentine SVa GT Woodin GTW M Southall MSo P Vasey PVa A Woods AWo R Southall RSo R Vernon RVe MWC Woodward MWCW P Spinks PSp B Vivian BVi P Worthy PWo M Squire MSq L von Ebling Lvo AL Wragg ALW L Stanley LSt D Wragg DWr R Stanton RSt O Wadsworth OWa MP Stanyer MPS MI Wakeman MIW M Yapp MYa MA Stephens MAS

Apedale Rangers Coombes Valley RSPB Banbury Ornithological Society Doxey Marshes Report Belvide Annual Report Draycote Log Blithfield Log Nuneaton and District Birdwatchersʼ Club Brandon Marsh Conservation Group RSPB Midland Office BTO Bird Track Staffs Ecological Record Chasewater Report Tittesworth Report Combined Handicapped & Disabled Society Warwickshire Museum Consall Rangers WMBC Hotline www.birdguides.com

235 Index to Species

Auk, Little 114 Gadwall 27 Kite, Red 58 Avocet 71 Gannet, Northern 53 Kittiwake 107 Garganey 32 Knot, Red 79 Bee-eater, European 124 Godwit, Bar-tailed 87 Lapwing, Northern 76 Bittern, Eurasian 54 Godwit, Black-tailed 86 Lark, Sky 127 Blackbird 150 Goldcrest 167 Lark, Wood 127 Blackcap 159 Goldeneye, Common 41 Linnet 189 Brambling 184 Goldfinch 186 Bullfinch 192 Goosander 43 Magpie 176 Bullfinch, Northern 193 Goose, Bar-headed 199 Mallard 30 Bunting, Corn 196 Goose, Barnacle 22 Martin, Sand 128 Bunting, Lapland 193 Goose, Bean 17 Martin, House 130 Bunting, Reed 195 Goose, Brent 22 Merganser, Hooded 198 Bunting, Snow 193 Goose, Egyptian 22 Merganser, Red-breasted 43 Buzzard, Common 61 Goose, Greater Canada 20 Merlin 63 Goose, Greylag 19 Moorhen 67 Chaffinch 183 Goose, Lesser Canada 197 Chiffchaff, Common 164 Goose, Lesser Nightingale, Common 140 Chiffchaff, Scandinavian 166 White-fronted 197 Nightjar, European 122 Chiffchaff, Siberian 166 Goose, Pink-footed 17 Nuthatch, Eurasian 174 Cockatiel 200 Goose, Red-breasted 197 Osprey 61 Coot, Common 68 Goose, Swan 199 Oriole, Black-naped 201 Cormorant, Great 53 Goose, White-fronted 18 Ouzel, Ring 149 Crake, Spotted 67 Goshawk, Northern 60 Owl, Barn 119 Crossbill, Common 192 Grebe, Black-necked 52 Owl, Eurasian Eagle 201 Crow, Carrion 178 Grebe, Great Crested 51 Owl, Little 120 Cuckoo, Common 118 Grebe, Little 49 Owl, Long-eared 121 Curlew, Eurasian 88 Grebe, Slavonian 52 Owl, Short-eared 122 Curlew, Stone 71 Greenfinch 185 Owl, Tawny 121 Greenshank, Common 91 Oystercatcher 69 Dipper 139 Grouse, Red 46 Diver, Black-throated 49 Guineafowl, Helmeted 200 Parakeet, Mitred 201 Diver, Great Northern 49 Gull, Black-headed 108 Parakeet, Rose-ringed 118 Diver, Red-throated 48 Gull, Caspian 104 Parrot, African Grey 201 Dotterel 74 Gull, Common 99 Partridge, Grey 47 Dove, Collared 117 Gull, Glaucous 105 Partridge, Red-legged 46 Dove, Stock 115 Gull, Great Black-backed 106 Phalarope, Grey 96 Dove, Turtle 117 Gull, Herring 102 Phalarope, Red-necked 96 Duck, Argentine Blue-billed 200 Gull, Iceland 105 Phalarope, Wilsonʼs 96 Duck, Falcated 198 Gull, Lesser Black-backed 100 Pheasant, Common 48 Duck, Ferruginous 37 Gull, Little 107 Pheasant, Green 200 Duck, Fulvous Whistling 198 Gull, Mediterranean 97 Pheasant, Reeveʼs 200 Duck, Mandarin 24 Gull, Sabineʼs 108 Pigeon, Feral 114 Duck, Muscovy 199 Gull, Yellow-legged 102 Pigeon, Wood 115 Duck, Ring-necked 37 Pintail, Northern 31 Duck, Ruddy 45 Harrier, Hen 59 Pipit, Meadow 132 Duck, Tufted 37 Harrier, Marsh 59 Pipit, Richardʼs 132 Duck, Wood 199 Hawfinch 193 Pipit, Rock 134 Dunlin 81 Hawk, Harrisʼs 200 Pipit, Scandinavian Rock 134 Dunnock 139 Heron, Grey 57 Pipit, Tree 132 Heron, Squacco 55 Pipit, Water 134 Egret, Great White 56 Hobby 64 Plover, European Golden 74 Egret, Little 55 Honey-buzzard 58 Plover, Grey 76 Hoopoe 125 Plover, Little Ringed 71 Falcon, Peregrine 65 Plover, Ringed 73 Fieldfare 151 Jackdaw, Western 177 Pochard, Common 36 Finch, Zebra 201 Jay, Eurasian 176 Pochard, Red-crested 35 Firecrest 168 Quail, Common 47 Flycatcher, Pied 169 Kestrel, Common 62 Flycatcher, Spotted 168 Kingfisher, Common 123 Rail, Water 66

236 Raven, Common 179 Snipe, Jack 82 Twite 190 Redpoll, Common 191 Sparrow, House 181 Wagtail, Grey 136 Redpoll, Lesser 190 Sparrow, Tree 182 Wagtail, Pied 137 Redshank, Common 90 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 60 Wagtail, White 138 Redshank, Spotted 89 Spoonbill, Eurasian 58 Wagtail, Yellow 135 Redstart, Black 141 Starling, Common 180 Warbler, Cettiʼs 156 Redstart, Common 141 Stint, Little 80 Warbler, Dartford 163 Redwing 154 Stonechat 144 Warbler, Garden 161 Robin 140 Storm-petrel, Leachʼs 52 Warbler, Grasshopper 156 Rook 177 Swallow, Barn 129 Warbler, Great Reed 159 Ruff 82 Swan, Bewickʼs 16 Warbler, Reed 158 Swan, Black 198 Warbler, Sedge 157 Sanderling 79 Swan, Mute 15 Warbler, Willow 166 Sandpiper, Common 93 Swan, Trumpeter 198 Warbler, Wood 163 Sandpiper, Curlew 80 Swan, Whooper 16 Waxbill 201 Sandpiper, Green 92 Swift, Common 123 Waxwing 138 Sandpiper, Pectoral 80 Weaver, Village 201 Sandpiper, Spotted 95 Teal, Eurasian 28 Wheatear, Greenland 148 Sandpiper, Wood 93 Tern, Arctic 112 Wheatear, Northern 146 Scaup, Greater 40 Tern, Black 114 Whimbrel 87 Scaup, Lesser 40 Tern, Common 110 Whinchat 143 Scoter, Common 41 Tern, Little 114 Whitethroat, Common 162 Shag 54 Tern, Sandwich 110 Whitethroat, Lesser 162 Shelduck, Common 23 Thrush, Mistle 155 Wigeon, Chiloe 200 Shelduck, Ruddy 198 Thrush, Song 153 Wigeon, Eurasian 26 Shoveler 33 Tit, Blue 173 Woodcock 85 Shrike, Great Grey 175 Tit, Coal 172 Woodpecker, Great Spotted 125 Siskin 187 Tit, Great 173 Woodpecker, Green 125 Skua, Arctic 97 Tit, Long-tailed 170 Woodpecker, Lesser Spotted126 Skua, Great 97 Tit, Marsh 171 Wren 139 Skua, Pomarine 96 Tit, Willow 172 Wryneck 125 Smew 42 Treecreeper, Eurasian 175 Snipe, Common 84 Turnstone 95 Yellowhammer 194

237 Notes

238 Notes

239 Notes

240