BIRMINGHAM BIRD CLUB.
SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT
ON THE BIRDS OF WARWICKSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE
AND SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE,
1940
Is. 6d. RAILWAY COUNTY BOUNDARY MAP OF RIVER WARWICKSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE and SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE
xBR^LES
-WMICHFORD LOfie COMPTON REPORT
ON THE
BIRDS OF WARWICKSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE AND
SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE,
1940.
PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BIRD CLUB.
Copies of this Report can be obtained from Messrs. Cornish Bros. Messrs. IV. H. Smith Son or the Hon. Sec. IV. E. Groves, 4, Lyttelton Road, Edgbaston. 1. MAP.
2. EDITORIAL.
3. EFFECT OF SEVERE WEATHER ON BIRD LIFE.
4. CIRL BUNTINGS. By C. W. BANNISTER.
5. ROOK CENSUS IN EVESIIAM AREA. By A. J. HARTHAN.
6. OLTON MERE. By G. H. HEATON.
7. MIGRANT DATES.
8. CLASSIFIED NOTES.
9. LISTS OF MEMBERS, ASSOCIATES AND CORRESPONDENTS.
10. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. EDITORIAL.
1940 was an exceptionally good year as regards the variety of birds observed in the area covered by this Report. The Spotted Redshank was recorded in Staffordshire for the first time and the Kentish Plover, Purple Sandpiper and Continental Robin in Worcestershire. A pair of Ravens was seen at Malvern where this species has not been observed since about 1870. Other items of interest include notes on the effect of severe weather upon bird life, a Rook census and behaviour of Cuckoos and Cirl Buntings. We shall be grateful if members will send us more detailed information about their identification of uncommon waders, so that the accuracy of our records may be maintained. Particulars of what was actually seen and whether the observer is well acquainted with the bird, would be most helpful and also save a lot of correspondence about those species which cannot be accepted on the bare statement that they were seen. This report contains various examples of the sort of evidence which is required. A. J. HARTHAN. EFFECT OF SEVERE WEATHER UPON BIRD LIFE.
A Report on this subject appeared in " British Birds," Vol. 34, p. 118. Frost began in the Midlands on Jan. 1 and increased in severity to reach 2°F during night 20—21st, when all ponds and rivers were frozen over. About 15 inches of snow fell north of a line running roughly Redditch—Kidderminster, on the 27th and 28th. Country south of this line was affected by an ice storm which covered trees and herbage with a thick coat of ice which persisted for about a week. A thaw took place on Feb. 5 but day and night temperatures remained near freezing point until Feb. 20th. Notes on the effect of this weather on the following birds have been sent in. Long: Tailed Tit. Bromsgrove District. Numbers decreased by at least half. (F.F.). S. Birmingham and Lickey District. None seen after [an. until Oct. when a party was observed by Bittell. (H.G.A.). S. Worcs. Only records are of 4 seen at Eckington 21.1 and a pair at Sheriffs Lench, 24.2 (A.J.H.). "I failed to find any in the Inkberrow or other districts of Worcestershire." (C.W.K.W,) S. Staffs. " A party was seen at the end of Feb. after the frost was over, but at the end of Mar., when I walked extensively over the area between Bellfields and Cannock Chase during four days, I did not see any." (H.G.A.). H.G.A. watched a pair nest building near Burmington (Warwick- Gloucs. border) during first week in April. Dowles. A pair seen at nest 30.3, were the only birds noted during the year (J.S.E.). Starling*. S. Birmingham and Lickey district. No noticeable decrease (H.G.A.). Bromsgrove district. A definite decrease in nesting pairs (F.F.). S. Worcs. Breeding pairs decreased by at least one third and numbers in winter roost by half. Only one and two eggs hatched out of two clutches of four eggs (A.J.H.). Malvern Wells. " Very few left " (G.K.H.). 4 Green Woodpecker. Bromsgrove district. Absent from Feb. 2 — Apr. 14 and thereafter very scarce (F.F.). S. Birmingham and Lickey District. None observed until the autumn when single birds (or one individual) were heard (H.G.A.). S. YVorcs. Not seen after Jan. until early April when three birds were heard around Bredon Hill and single birds at Sheriffs Lench and Castlemorton. Birds appeared single until the end of the year. (A.J.H.). S. Staffs. Three seen together by Bellfields at end of March, apparently wanderers ; otherwise not observed during spring although normally it is fairly common here." (H.G.A.). Malvern Wells. Not seen since Feb. frost (G.K.H.). Coot. Bittell. 150 present 13.1, only one 24.2, six 4 3 (E.St.G.B.). Several noted dead. At least up to one third decrease in nesting birds (H.G.A.). Bellfields. Breeding birds decreased by perhaps half (H.G.A.). Remains of at least 40 dead birds seen and 30 live birds counted 28.4 (A.J.H.). Wren. Bromsgrove district and Sheriffs Lench district. Absent from early Feb. until end of March. (F.F., A.J.H.). Other species which suffered a decrease,—though less marked than those already mentioned, were, Robin, Song Thrush, Goldcrest, Woodpigeon and L. S. Woodpecker. Notes on the status and number of Long Tailed Tits seen during 1941 are invited.
5 CIRL BUNTINGS.
By C. W. B. BANNISTER.
The Cirl Bunting is sparingly distributed over some areas of South Worcestershire and North Gloucestershire, and is probably commoner than it appears to be as it is easily overlooked. It is a local wanderer, often deserting old haunts for many months. It has a noticeable preference for the outskirts of towns and villages and is most often found near houses. I have heard one sing in a railway goods yard. It usually pairs for life, though probably not always, and cock and hen keep in close company throughout the winter. The Cirl Bunting song has very little resemblance to that of the Yellow Bunting. It is more easily confused with the rattle of a Lesser Whitethroat or the loud trill of a Nuthatch. The song is heard in every month of the year, (though only occasionally during December—January—February), and reaches its peak during June— July—August, especially July. The cock of a pair I watched during 1936 at Holdfast (II), sang from March to December, his song being constant and vigorous during July—August—September. He sang while the young were in the nest and for a long time after they had left. I find two broods are usual, the first eggs being laid in May and the second clutch in July or August. The pair I watched in 1936 were feeding young of the first brood on June 19th and the two young of their second brood left the nest on September 11th. In 1938 I saw broods being fed on August 24th and 27th. The cock of the Holdfast pair did little or nothing towards feeding the young while they were in the nest, though he accompanied the hen on all her journeys in search of food and returned with her, waiting on a telephone post whilst she fed the young and cleaned out the nest. The young are fed by their parents for three weeks or more after they are fledged and during this period the cock does assist the hen. After the breeding season Cirl Buntings frequently resort to stubble fields and may wander about a good deal mingling with 6 other Buntings and Finches. Winter flocks are rare as Cirl Buntings usually remain in pairs. However, on January 2nd, 1936 I saw a flock of about 20 together near Bushley (II) and a party of six were about Fiddington (Gloucs.) during November—December 1937. I have read in some books that the cock loses the black and yellow face markings in winter, but I have not found this so. These distinctive markings may be dulled but they are always plainly visible as are the olive and yellow on the breast. ROOK CENSUS IN EVESHAM AREA. II.
By A. J. HARTHAN.
Area surveyed was 28 square miles on the One Inch O.S. Map, sheet 82. Squares F.G.H.J. 1—7. Total number of nests was found to be 1092. This figure represents 39 nests per square mile. Excluding 4 square miles of intensive vegetable farming land which contained only 31 nests, the density of nests in remaining 24 square miles was 44 per square mile. By comparison with other areas, shown below, this figure indicates that Rooks are especially numerous round Evesham. When an opportunity occurs, a census taken in another part of the county would be interesting. A sample census taken in Evesham area in 1940 showed that the Rook population had been reduced by at least one third during the ice storm and cold weather of February 1940.
Date of Area in Approx. No. Nests per District Survey Sq. miles of nests •Sq. mile Authority W. Gloucs. 1933 65'5 1,009 15-4 Yap. Somerset 1933-4 1636-0 35,643 21-S Tucker. Upper Thames 1931 910-0 30,500 33-5 Alexander. S. W. Worcs. 1939 28-0 1,092 390 Harthan. 24-0 1,061 44-2 Harthan. Edinburgh 1928 51-0 2,280 46-0 Nash.
OLTON MERE. I. Mr. G. H. Heaton saw the following birds at Olton Mere during 1940. Goldcrests 7.1, A Water Rail perched in an elder bush, 18.2. First G.C. Grebe returned 2.3, six on 16.3. Pair of King- fishers nested. Seven Pochard 23.3. Tufted Duck, Mallard. Pair of Mute Swan arrived 19.3, a Canada Goose 4.5., Sparrow Hawk, Kestrel, Common Sandpiper 21.4, three 10.7, Grasshopper Warbler 17.5, Cuckoo 2.8, Common Tern 24.8, Grey Wagtail 8.9, Woodcock 4.12.
8 MIGRANTS. Summer Migrants.
Arrival. Departure. CHIFFCHAFF. Mar. 11. Hagley (G.M.K.) Oct. 10. Lickey (H.G.A.) „ 11. Great Alne (R.H.J.) J > 1. Randan (F.F.) „ 21. Sherifls Lench (A.J.H.) Sept. 30. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) WILLOW-WREN. Mar. 24. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) Sept. 26. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) Apr. 1. Randan (F.F.) 21. Dowles (J.S.E.) ,, 6. Blakedown (G.M.K.) 9 » 11. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) WHEATEAR. Mar. 19. Enville (G.M.K.) Aug. 17. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) SANDMARTIN. Mar. 23. Bittell (C.K.J.) Sept. 14. Bittell (H.G.A.) SWALLOW. Mar. 29. Bittell (C. K.J.) Oct. 14. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) Apr. 19. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) s» 10. Hagley (G.M.K.) „ 20. Hagley (G.M.K.) Sept. 23. Randan (F.F.) „ 21. Randan (F.F.) TREE PIPIT. Apr. 1. Hagley (G.M.K.) Sept. 6. Randan (F.F.)
„ 13. Ragley (A.J.H.) >» 3. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) „ 14. Randan (F.F.) Aug. 30. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) YELLOW WAGTAIL. Apr. 13. Bittell (C.K.J.) Sept. 29. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) BLACKCAP. Mar. 24. Bromsgrove (A.J.M.) Sept. 1. Randan (F.F.) Apr. 10. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) Aug. 21. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) REDSTART. Apr. 7. Randan (F.F.) • Sept. 1. Dowles (J.S.E.) „ 17. Dowles (J.S.E.) Aug. 8. Bittell (W.E.G.) „ 18. Bittell (H.G.A.) CUCKOO. Apr. 17. Hagley (G.M.K.) Aug. 16. Selly Oak (H.C.A.) ,, 19. Dowles (J.S.E.) July 11. Hagley (G.M.K.) ,, 20. Bittell (C.K.J.) t 1 5. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) ,, 21. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) LESSER WHITETHROAT. Apr. 24. Dodford (F.F.) Sept. 14. Bittell (H.G.A.) „ 25. Bittell (H.G.A.) 9. Dodworth (F.F.) Arrival. Departure. HOUSE MARTIN. Apr. 20. Hagley (G.M.K.) Oct. 5. Dowles (G.M.K.) May 9. Randan (F.F.) Sept. 26. Randan (F.F.) NIGHTINGALE. Apr. 14. Sherifis Lench (A J.H.) ,, 21. Randan (F.F.) „ 23. Dowles (J.S.E.) WHITETHROAT. Apr. 20. Bittell (C.K.J.) Sept. 15. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) ,, 21. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) 9. Bittell (H.G.A.) „ 23. Randan (F.F.) Aug. 24. Dodford (F.F.) SEDGE WARBLER. Apr. 21. Bittell (C.K.J.) Sept. 10. Eckington (A.J.H.) WOOD WARBLER. Apr. 24. Lickey (H.G.A.) July 25. Lickey (H.G.A.) ,, 24. Randan (F.F.) C. SANDPIPER. Apr. 18. Bittell (H.G.A.) Nov. 14. Bittell (H.G.A.) ,, 21. Eckington (A.J.H.) Aug. 15. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) WHINCIIAT. Apr. 25. Bittell (H.G.A.) Sept. 10. Eckington (A.J.H.)
„ 25. Bromsgrove (F.F.) >> 3. Highgate (H.G.A.) CORNCRAKE. May 3. Kinver (G. M.K.) July 25. Eckington (A.J.H.) „ 4. Eckington. (A.J.H.) TURTLE DOVE. May 2. Randan (F.F.) Sept. 23. Pedmore (G.M.K.) „ 4. Droitwich (H.G.A.) SWIFT. Apr. 23. Bittell (H.G.A.) Aug. 25. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.)
May Bellfields (A.J.H.) >» 10. Bromsgrove (F.F.) ,, 8. Bromsgrove (F.F.) SPOTTED FLYCATCHER. May 11. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) Sept. 23. Hagley (G.M.K.)
,, 12. Dowles (J.S.E.) > > 14. Bittell (H.G.A.) GARDEN WARBLER. Apr. 22. Randan (F.F.) Aug. 14. Randon (F.F.) May 6. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) 12. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) GRASSHOPPER WARBLER. Apr. 23. Randan (F.F.) May 4. Sheriffs Lench (A.J. H.)
10 Winter Migrants. Arrival. Departure. REDWING. Oct. 2. Hagley (G.M.K.) Mar. 29. Brewood (H.G.A.) „ 24. Dowles (J.S.E.) „ 24. Randan (F.F.) FIELDFARE. Oct. 26. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) May 6. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) BRAMBLING. Oct. 1. Randan (F.F.) Apr. 13. Sheriffs Lench (A.J.H.) Nov. 1. Pedmore (G.M.K.) Feb. 17. Randan (F.F.) JACK SNIPE. Oct. 26. Bellfields (H.G.A.) SISKIN. Oct. 20. Randan (F.F.) Mar. 16. Hagley (G.M.K.) „ 29. Selly Oak (H.G.A.) Feb. 17. WIGEON. Randan (F. F.) Sept. 10. Bellfields (H.G.A.) Apr. 28. Bellfields (G.M.K.) GOLDEN-EYE. Oct. 26. Bellfields (H.G.A.) Apr. 1. Bittell (H.G.A.) GOOSANDER. Dec. 1. Bellfields (J.H.S.) Apr. 1. Bellfields (J.H.S.)
11 CLASSIFIED" NOTES. B.B. = " British Birds."
I = Warwickshire. II = Worcestershire. Ill = South Staffordshire.
Raven. II. A pair was seen on the Hills above Great Malvern, 5.12. (B.B. Vol. 34, p. 179.) Hooded Crow. III. Bellfields. One 7.12 (W.F.I.). Jackdaw. Sheriffs Lench. A.J.H. trapped a mottled looking bird whose back, wing and tail feathers were all edged with pale brown. Starling'. Sheriffs Lench. An immense flock was seen emigrating N.E. by A.J.H. as he was watching local starlings flying into their roost at sunset, 1.3. Starlings are said to begin their migration at dusk. Lesser Redpoll. II. H.G.A. saw what he thinks was a family party in the Lickey woods, 2.8. Tree Sparrow. II. Sheriffs Lench. Flock of at least 200 in stubble field during December (A.J.H.). Water Pipit. II. U. Bittell. One. 31.10 (H.G.A.). Woodlark. II. Heard at Sheriffs Lench 5.10 (A.J.H.), and near Hagley in March (G.M.K.). Yellow Wagtail. I. A pair feeding young near the Medical School of Birmingham University, Edgbaston, 7.6 (C.W.K.W.). Two at Rotton Park Reservoir 24.4 (W.E.G.). Pied Wagtail. II. A.J.H. writes "as I clipped my Sealyham dog a Wagtail picked up bits of white fur and took them to line her nest in the ivy of a nearby wall. After finishing the dog I found that tne wagtail had also completed her job and she laid her first egg during the night." This Wagiail fed her six young on Yellow Underwing moths. (See B.B., Vol. 34, p. 87.). Grey Wagtail. I. Single birds seen at Bartley, 16.3, and at Selly Oak, 29.9 (H.G.A.). Great Tit. II. Sheriffs Lench. 20.8 A.J.H. removed 22 Ticks from around the eyes of a trapped Great Tit. Bird did not appear in any way inconvenienced by these parasites. Firecrest. II. H.G.A. heard a suspect in Lickey Woods 14.11 and definitely identified a male 28.11. He writes "This bird appears to be a male; the stripe across the face is very white with darker stripes above and below. The more emerald green 12 mantle, compared with Goldcrest, has also been noted more-than once. It is usually a very silent individual, but several times its notes,— rather more abrupt and husky than Goldcrest, have been heard." This bird was last seen 18.1.41. Pied Flycatcher. I. One at Selly Oak, 13.7 (H.G.A.). Willow Warbler. I- W.E.G. saw about 100 in a small area of birch scrub in Edgbaston Park. 19.4. Marsh Warbler. II. A.J.H. heard at least two singing near iMalvern, 5.6. Blackcap. II. A hen was found dead at a bird table in Moseley, 15.2 (C.K.J.). II. Sheriffs Lench. A cock sang persistently for a week from the topmost twig of a tall oak tree (A.J.H.). Fieldfare. I. One at Selly Oak 4.6 (H.G.A.). June records from inland counties are rare. 1 Redwing . II. Sheriffs Lench. Immence movement from E to W was heard all night, 20.10. Also many Song Thrushes making a single, short 'chit' note. Weather was misty with low rain clouds (A.J.H.). Ring Ousel. II. U. Bittell. One 20.3 (H.G.A.). Blackbird. II. Sheriffs Lench. A nest with three eggs, 15.8, an exceptionally late date (A J.H.). Wheatear. I. One in Edgbaston Park (first record) 21.3 (G.C.W.W.). One at Rotton Park 24.4 (W.E.G.). II. A pair nested at Hagley. This is the first record for this district though they breed at Enville and Kinver (G.M.K.). Sheriffs Lench. A.J.H. saw two migrants catching bluebottle flies on his lawn, 17.8. Stonechat. I. A pair at Curdworth Marsh where they are not normally seen, 24.2 (M.H.A.). II. A migrant female was seen at Sheriffs Lench, 16.3 (A.J.H.), and near Tewkesbury, 23.10 (C.W.B.). Continental Robin. II. A specimen of this sub species was obtained near Great Malvern on December 3rd. The first record for Worcestershire. (See B.B., Vol. 34, p. 179.) Cuckoo. II- Cuckoos were more numerous than usual in 1940. Sheriffs Lench. A.J.H. first heard the "bubble" note of a hen Cuckoo on May 2nd and found her egg in a Hedgesparrows nest 13 the next day. H.G.A. saw "a "very rich brown" Cuckoo at Upper Bittell on July 12th, which was probably a female of the "hepatic" variety. A specimen of this scarce form was seen near Evesham in 1917. Cuckoos were heard calling as late as mid-July, e.g. 5.7 (A.J.H., J.S.E.). 7.7, and one, twice distinctly, 16.8 (H.G.A.). G.M.K. heard both sexes, 11.7. The following letter appeared in "The Times" for Aug. 30th. "Sir,—Surely this is a very rare, if not unique, occurrence? For three years in succession a pair of Wagtails have built their nest over our front door among the creepers. This year for the second, possibly the third, year in succession a Cuckoo has laid its egg in this nest, and the wagtails have in due course adopted and brought up the alien visitor. We last heard the parent bird calling on July 13. though one of our party declared that he heard the Cuckoo as late as July 16. But imagine our astonish- ment yesterday, August 26, to see the same pair of wagtails, who we knew had been using their nest for what we imagined to be their own family this last three weeks, feeding another cuckoo, the second this year. Only one of the wagtails was employed in the work of feeding this cuckoo yesterday and to-day, and we presume that the other was sick of the seemingly endless task of feeding a bird which could very well take care of itself. Yours, etc., Arthur Worcester, Hartlebury Castle, Aug. 27." Gt. Spotted Woodpecker. I. During March, H.G.A. heard one utter its "click" note 50 times per minute, and he watched another " drumming " on the metal cap of a telephone post at Selly Oak. Peregrine. II. One chasing Lapwings near Tewkesbury, 23.12 (C.W.B.) III. Seen at Patshull, 3.3 (G.M.K.). and at Bellfields, 20.10 (J.H.S., H.G.A.). Merlin. I. Seen flying over Selly Oak, 2.4 (H.G.A.). II. One at Sheriffs Lench, 29.3 (A.J.H.). Bittern. I. One was found in a frozen condition near Sutton Park, 15.2 (A.H.). Mute Swan. II. Number nesting on river Avon were reduced by half by cold weather in the Spring (A.J.H.). III. Bellfields. "Absent from the reservoir until the end of 14 June when 25 appeared and the flock grew to a maximum of 37 on July 14 and thereafter decreased, the birds being absent after the first of October except for a temporary visit at the end of November when four were present." (J.H.S.). Thirty-six, 21.1, ten, 1.6 (W.F.I.). Canada Goose. I. A pair nested in Edgbaston Park'(W.E.G.). Ill Bellfields. Three, 7.4, a pair early May (J.H.S.). White Fronted Goose. II. Large numbers frequented the Avon valley during Jan. and Feb (A.J.H.) III. Bellfields. A flock of 37 were present during latter half of Jan. (J.H.S., W.F.I.), Five, 12.1 (C.K.J., G.M.K.). Sheld Duck. II. U. Bittell. One, 23.4 and 14 9 (H.G.A., C.K.J., E.St.G.B.). III. Bellfields. Two, 28,4 (G.M.K.), 4.5 (J.H.S.). Single birds 14.9 (J.H.S.) and 25.12 (W.F.I.). Garganey. III. Bellfields. One, 13.5 (J.H.S.), and 15.9 (W.F.I.). Wig-eon. I. Bartley. About 100 on Jan. 1 (W.E.G.). III. Bellfields. About 100, 16.4. one, 21.5, four, 6.10 (W.F.I.). Shoveller. II. Bittell. One, 10.10 (H.G.A.). Westwood Park, four, 17.11 (G.M.K.). III. Bellfields. 14 was the largest number noted in March and Dec. Nest with ten eggs, 21.5 (W.F.I.). Pochard. II. U. Bittell. About 75, 7.12 (H.G.A.). G.M.K. saw 2 ducks at Hagley, 24.4. III. Bellfields. One, 21.5, about 150, 10.11 (W.F.I.). Golden-Eye. I. Rotton Park. One duck, 3.1 (W.E.G.). Bartley. One drake, 1.1 (W.E G.), two, 23.3 (G.C.W.W.). II. Bittell. Three dueks, 16.3 (C.K.J.). Hagley. One bird, II.1 (G.M.K.). III. Bellfields. Last seen 4.4. A flock of 16 returned 26.10 (J.H.S), nine, 24.11 (W.F.I.). Long Tailed Duck. III. Bellfields. One seen from Nov. 3-10. " An adult male in full winter plumage. Its tail was visible when it dived and for some time after it returned to the surface; but immediately after that the bird would sink the tail level with the water." (J.H.S., H.G.A., W.F.I.). Common Scoter. III. Bellfields. One, 3.11 (J.H.S.), two 1.6 (W.F.I.). 15 Goosander. III. Bellfields. Noted in Feb., Mar., Nov., Dec. About forty, 28 12 (H.G.A.), and 76 (18 adult males) 3.3 (G.M.K.). Gailey. 35 (12 adult males) 17.3 (G.M.K., W.F.I.). Smew. III. Bellfields. A pair, 1.1 (J.H.S.), and 24.2 (H.G.A.), 2 drakes, 29.12 (W.F.I.). Gailey. 2 brown heads, 3.3 (G.M.K., C.K.J.). Cormorant. II. Bittell. One present at end of August (H.G.A.). III. liellfields. Seen in Jan. March, April, Aug—Dec., largest number being five, 9.10 (J.H.S., H.G.A., G.M.K., W.F.I.). Great Crested Grebe. II. Bittell. First returned after the frost, 25.2 (H.G.A.). Bred at Blakedown after lapse of 2 years (G.M.K.). III. Bellfieids. "A single pair returned on March 5. This was evidently the day of their return to the district for on the same day a pair appeared on Gailey and on March 6 a pair returned to the pool at New Invention. Thereafter the number rapidly increased to the summer population which is usually about 44 birds (fifty, 10.4 W.F.I.). This tended to increase towards the end of summer, there being 59 on July 2. The numbers thereafter fluctuated somewhat to reach 61 on Nov. 7. (Sixty-three, 8.12, forty-six, 1.12 W.F.I.). Ten nests were found and there were about nine more in one patch of reeds." (J.H.S.). Slavonian Grebe. III. Bellfields. Two, 23 12 (J.H.S.), three, 28.12 (W.F.I., G.M.K., H.G.A., C.K.J.). Black-Necked Grebe. II One on flood water at Eckington 25.2 (A.J.H.). Bittell. One seen 3.3, 9.3 (H.G.A., C.K.J.), and again 16.3 (E St.G.B.). Great Northern Diver. III. Bellfields. " A very tame bird whose heavy bill and speckles on back were readily seen" was present during December (H.G.A., C.K.J., J.H.S.). Ringed Plover. II. U. Bittell. One, 19.4, two. 15.8, seven 24.9 (H.G.A.), three, 28.9 (E.St.G.B.). III. Bellfields. Small numbers seen from late July until Nov. 7, an unusually late date for this species. Seven 28.9 (J.H.S., W.F.I., H.G.A., G.M.K.). Kentish Plover. II. U. Bittell. An immature bird 15.7 (H.G.A.). "This bird was seen at very close quarters. Its peculiar note and the slight whitish wing-bar (instead of the conspicuous white wing-bar of the Ringed Plover) and pale sandy colour, were all noticeable as soon as it flew. When it settled the dark neck mark was so inconspicuous that it seems likely that it was an 16 immature bird. Its rather long beak and black legs and character- istic tail pattern in flight were also noted. Young Ringed Plovers are often mistaken for Kentish Plovers, and neither the break in the ring on the neck nor dark legs (which may be muddy) are diagnostic." (H.G.A.). The first record for Worcestershire. (See B.B., Vol. 34, p. 90.). Golden Plover. III. About 200 on Perton Sewage farm during Oct. and November (J.H.S.). Turnstone. I. Heard flying over Selly Oak at night 23.4 (H.G.A.). II. U. Bittell. Three, 22.8 (H.G.A.). Ruff. III. Bellfields. Seen on various dates from mid-August until November 3. Largest number was eight 29.9 (C.K.J., W.E.G., J.H.S., G.M.K, H.G.A.). A Reeve, 21.5 and 6.10 (W.F.I.). Sanderling". III. Bellfields. One, 1.9 (W.F.I.). Knot. III. Bellfields. One, 1.9, three. 26.9, single birds 1.10 and 15.10 (J.H.S.). Referring to the last bird J.H.S. writes " There was a mixed party of waders on the near shore, consisting of two Reeves, one Dunlin, and the fourth was almost exactly intermediate in size. Relative to its size it had a longer bill than the Reeves and the bill was stout and black. The legs were comparatively short. It had a dark brownish grey back, grey chest and white abdomen, and there was a whitish eye streak. In flight it had a narrow greyish white wing bar, and the under- parts were a lighter grey than the back." Dunlin. I. Rotton Park. One. 4.1 (W.E.G.). II. Bittell. Noted in April, May, and from July until November (H.G.A., E.St.G.B., C.K.J.). III. Bellfields. Noted in March and from July until end of Dec., thirty-five, 6.10 (W.F.I.), fourteen, 15.10 (J.H.S.), four, 5.12 (C.K.J.). Curlew Sandpiper. III. Bellfields. Two, 13.5 (J.H.S.) and 7.9 (G.M.K.). J.H.S. writes "Two small waders got up and flew round together for some time before going out of sight. I was unable to get a view of them except when they were flying. When they arose I at once diagnosed them as Dunlin from their shape, size and flight, except for very prominent white upper tail coverts, which I had never seen on a Dunlin." G.M.K. writes 17 "they were with about 12 Ringed Plovers, 12 Dunlin and 3 Ruffs. I watched them through my telescope at 50 or 60 yards for a good quarter hour. I have seen this species before." Little stint. III. Bellfields. One, 29.9 (C.K.J., W.E.G., J.H.S., W.F.I.), and 9.10 (J.H.S.). Purple Sandpiper. II. U. Bittell. One, 31.10 (H.G.A.). " While I was walking round the reservoir a small wader, looking too large for a Dunlin but smaller than a Redshank, already observed, was noted flying round over the water. Once it looked as if it would settle on the water and I thought it must be a Phalarope, but it looked too dark. Finally it settled down on the mud and allowed a very close approach. The stumpy appearance, dingy grey colour and yellow legs were all visible." (H.G.A.). The first record for Worcestershire. Common Sandpiper. II. U. Bittell. Two, 20.4 and 6.7 (E.St.G.B.). One stayed very late and was seen from mid Oct. until Nov. 21 (C.K.J.). Sheriffs Lench. Heard flying over at night, 25.5, 18.7 and 15.8 (A.J.H.). III. Bellfields. Largest number was twelve, 11.8. Last seen 9.10 (J.H.S.). Curlew Sandpiper. III. Bellfields. Two, 13.5 (J.H.S.), 7.9 (G M.K.), and 6.10 (W.F.I.). Sanderling-. III. Bellfields. One, 1.9 (W.F.I.). Green Sandpiper. II. Bittell. One, 1.9 (H.G.A.). III. Bellfields. Seen at intervals from August until end of December. Three. 1.12 (J.H.S., G.M.K., W.F.I., H.G.A.). Spotted Redshank. III. Bellfields. One, 28.8. " Among the waders was one the size and shape of a Redshank, but quite the darkest wader I have seen. End on it was strikingly tall and slim with a long, thin, straight bill. The colour was almost black on the back, very dark grey on the neck and chest. It got up when the Greenshank and ordinary Redshank had flown away and I was surprised to see that its legs were bright red. The under surface of the wing was light in colour and the upper surface had no true wing bar, but the trailing edge of the wing was a lighter colour than the rest. The rump was white with a dark streak on it. Its call note was not the ordinary triple Redshank call but a very melodious sound which I entered in my notes as " Tu-Whit." (J.H.S.). This is the first record for Staffs. 18 Greenshank. II. One at Lower Bittell Reservoir 27.2 (H.A.K.A.). III. Bellfields. Noted on various dates from early August until November (J.H.S., H.G.A., G.M.K., W.F.I.). Black Tailed Godwit. III. Bellfields. One, 16.3 (J.H.S.). Common Snipe. I. First record for Rotton Park Reservoir, 2.1 (W.E.G.). Curlew. II. Arrived near Pershore 10.4. Last seen 27.7 (A.J.H.). Arrived near Tewkesbury 23 3. Last seen 28.7 (C.W.B.). III. Bellfields. A few seen in Feb., March, July and Aug. (J.H.S.). Black Tern. II. U. Bittell. One, 24.9 (H.G.A.). III. Bellfields. Single birds 16.5 and 19.9 (J.H.S.). Common and Arctic Tern. II. There was a remarkable visit- ation of both these species at Bittell between Aug. 8th and Sept. 24th. They were in a great variety of plumages, especially as to the colour of bill and legs; four were definitely identified by colour of bill or by characteristic cries. An Arctic Tern appeared on Aug. 8th and stayed a week or more. An immature Common Tern arrived on Aug. 13th. Six Terns were seen on Aug. 22nd, and seven (one Arctic, two Common) two days later. Others noted were two on 1.9 and 14.9 and one 24.9 (H.G.A., C.K.J., E.St.G.B.). III. Bellfields. Two, 19.5, single birds 4.9, 29 and 31 8, three birds seen 11.8 and 24.8 (J.H.S.). An Arctic Tern 17.8 (H.G.A.). Black Headed Gull. II. Bewdley. "This gull has not yet become common here, and only odd ones are occasionally seen in this district" (J.S.E.). III. Bellfields. " The numbers are immense as this reservoir is used for roosting. On Feb. 8th I counted 600 birds, but this was far short of the real total, which I estimated as being nearer 1,000." (J.H.S.). Herring Gull. II. Bittell. One, 9.1 and 29.2, two, 14.8 (C.K.J.). Sheriffs Lench. One, 21.6, four, 15.8 (A.J.H.). III. Bellfields. A certain number have begun to roost here at night during the past four or five winters. G.M.K. saw 15 assembled there in Nov. and H.G.A. at least 30 in Dec. Common Gull. I. First record for Rotton Park Reservoir, 10.2 (W.E.G.). 19 Lesser Black Backed Gull. II. Bittelh Spring movement, north began 9.3 and continued until 4.5. Return passage 9.8 until 14.11 (H.G.A., C.K.J ). Sheriffs Lench. 9, (4 immature), flying north, 14.2 (A.J.H.). Pedmore. One, flying north, 29.2 (G.M.K.). A.J.H. saw five near Evesham, 21.6, and has noticed of recent years that a number always frequent the river Avon when the fishing season begins about mid-June. They feed on small fish thrown back into the river by fishermen and in one instance a gull became so tame that it was fed by hand. III. Bellfields. A few seen end of March and April and from end August until Nov. (J.H.S.). Great Black Backed Gull. II. YVestwood Park. One immature bird, 4.5 (H.G.A.). III. Bellfields. Two, 13.3 (J.H.S.), an adult 7.11 and a juvenile 24.11 (H.G.A.). Quail. II. One near Bromsgrove, 29.5 (F.F.). At least two were heard at Sheriffs Lench during May and June and at Harvington near Evesham in July. One was shot near Pershore in Sept. (A.J.H.). One was heard calling persistently at Iverley, Kinver. (G.M.K). III. G.M.K. reports that two were shot from a bevy of 15—20 birds at Seisdon near Wolverhampton, 21.9.
20 MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATES.
MEMBERS MARKED *
* Alexander, H. G., 144, Oaktree Lane, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Asterley, Miss M. H., 124, Albert Road, Stechford, Birmingham. Baguley, A. A , " Shanklin," Kendal End Road, Barnt Green, Worcs. Baker, Martin, 28, St. Paul's Square, Birmingham. Bannister, C. W., Fiddington, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury. Banton, F. C , 12, Tenbury Road, King's Heath, Birmingham. * Barlow, F. R.. 26, Linden Road, Bournville, Birmingham. Beale, E. P., 62, Wellington Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Butler, Mrs. E., 132, Redditch Road, King's Heath, Birmingham. *Cadbury, Mrs. J., 170, Oaktree Lane, Bournville, Birmingham. Cadbury, J. C., Beaconwood, Rednal, Worcs. Cadbury, Mrs. J. C., ,, ,, ,, Carr, P., Ormond Lodge, Newbold-on-Stour, Stratford-on-Avon. *Carter, Miss B. A., Fir Tree Cottage, Chipperfield, Kings Langley, Herts. Conrady, Miss M. E., S. George's Court, Bournville, Birmingham. Cooke, D. S., The Gables, Barnt Green, Worcs. Dawson, G., 4, Westfield Hall, Hagley Road, Kdgbaston, Birmingham. Edkins, W. J., Langley Gorse, Walmley, Nr. Birmingham. Fox, J. P.. 9, S. Augustine's Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, Fincher, F., Randan Wood, Woodcote, Bromsgrove. Francis, W. L., High Street, Repton, Derby. Froggatt, W. T., 64, Grafton Road, Handsworth, Birmingham. Gibbins, Miss M., Horns Boon, Linthurst Road, Barnt Green, VVorcs. Grove, Miss N., 14, Hart Road, Erdington, Birmingham. *Groves, W. E.. 4, Lyttelton Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Hamel, Capt. A. de, Wigginton Lodge, Tamworth, Staffs. Hancock, Malcolm, Packwood Hall, Hockley Heath, Warwicks. Harries, N. G., 31a, Colmore Row, Birmingham. "Harthan, A. J., Sheriffs Lench, Evesham. Heaton, G, Howard, 26, St. Bernards Road, Olton. Hibbert, Mrs. G. K., 38, Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Hussey,J. K., Merecroft, Meadow Hill Road, King's Norton, Birmingham. Ireland, W. F. Jr., Wraysbury, Hanhury Crescent, Wolverhampton. *James, Miss C. K., Blake's Wood, Barnt Green, Worcs. Jeavons, P. M., 48, Reddings Road, Moseley, Birmingham. *Kenrick, W. E., 78, Westfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. *Kenrick, H., The Grove, Harborne Park Road, Birmingham. *King, G. M., Winds Point, Hagley, Nr. Stourbridge. Lambourne, G. C., 18, Wheatsheaf Road, Edgbaston, 16. Lane, Mrs. A. B., Blackdown, Moreton-in-Marsh, Glos. Lane, J. D., Woodloes, Warwick.
Lloyd, G. B.. 32, Meadow Hill Road, King's Norton, Birmingham. Mathews, Mrs. Lewis, 39, Westfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Mashiter, Major E., Lupton House, Bromsgrove School, Worcs. Morshead. P. E. A., Morningside, Graham Road, Malvern. *Norris, C. A., Grassholme, Stratford-on Avon. Palfrey, H. E., Everscote, Pedmore, Stourbridge. Palmer, Miss M., The Elms, Widney Lane, Solihull. Price, Mrs. M. P., The Glebe, Twyning, Tewkesbury, Glos. Procter. W. 1., 76, Woodlands Road, Moseley, Birmingham. Pumphrey, Miss M. E., 8, Snakes Lane, Alvechurch, Worcs. 21 Ratcliffe, Dr. J. R., Beach Flat, Little Orme, Llandudno. Rushton, Miss G, The Four Gables, Welford-on-Avon, Warwicks. Salter, R. G., 52, Willow Road, Bournville, Birmingham. ^Sanderson, W. W., 32, Kensington Road, Selly Hill, Birmingham. Score, T. ]., 125, Colmore Row, Birmingham. Seggie, A., 5, Randle Street, Coventry. Sheldon, Dr. J. H., Airedale, Regis Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton. Silvers, C. Owen, Keepers Cottage, Orton Hills, Wolverhampton. Smith, Dr. Langdale, 21, Victoria Road, Stechford, Birmingham. Stephens, J. S., 270, Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Taylor, C. L., 71 Vernon Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Wain, H. T., Dunelm, Bretby Lane, Burton-on-Trent. Wainwright, C. J., 172, Hamstead Road, Handsworth, Birmingham. * Wallis, C. W. K., 69, Fountain Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Wallis, G. C. W., Warwick, J. S., "Goodrich," Grange Road, Dorridge, Warwicks. Whittle, E., 37, Victoria Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham. "Wilkinson, G. H., "The Hurst," Hartopp Road, Sutton Coldfield. Williams, Mrs. A. F., Thurston End Mall, Hawkedon, Bury St. Edmunds. Wilson, H. Lloyd, Clent Cottage, Clent, Nr. Bromsgrove. *Wood, D. ]., 52a, Linden Road, Bournville, Birmingham. Wright, Miss P. M. 13, Carless Avenue, Harborne, Birmingham. Whitehouse, A. A. K., 83, Westley Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham.
CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS REPORT.
Members or Associates.
H. A. K. Auster. Barnt Green. E. St. G. Betts. Birmingham. J. S. Elliott Dowles, Bewdley. A. Harlond. Sutton Coldfield. R. H. Jephcott.
Members or Associates.
H. G. Alexander. Dr. J. H. Sheldon. Miss M. H. Asterley. J. S. Stephens. C. W. Bannister. J. D. Wood, F. Fincher. C. W. K. Wallis. W. E. Groves. G. C. W. Wallis. A. J. Harthan. G. H. Heaton. W. F. Ireland. Miss C. K. James. G. M. King.
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