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0.9 01.3 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB No. 9, Vol. 3

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 1979

President: J. L. FOX

Vice-Presidents: Dr. C. W. WALKER, M.C., A. G. FYSHE, P. W. HINDE

Chairman: T. R. AMMONDS

Editor: T. R. H. OWEN C.B.E.

Recorder: A. J. SMITH

Field Secretary: P. GARDNER

Treasurer: I. T. STONE

Secretary: Mrs. J. BROMLEY

Committee: Mrs. F. BRADLEY A.MARCHANT Mrs. R. FRANCIS F. W. MARSTON I. B. EVANS M. F. PEERS R. D. JONES J. J. SMITH K. A. MASON J. H. WATKINS HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICALCLUB RULES

1. NAME. The Club shall be calledthe Herefordshire OrnithologicalClub.

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

3. MEMBERSHIP. The Club shall consist of a President, a Chairman, a Secretary, a Field Secretary, a Treasurer, an Editor, a Recorder, and Ten Committee Members and Ordinary Members. The President and the Chairmanto retire after servinga term of three years. The Secretaries, the Treasurer, the Recorder and the Editor shall be elected annually. The three seniorof the ten OrdinaryMembers ofthe Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and the Officers shall be eligible for re-election. Nominations for the Committee must be received in writing by the Hon. Secretaryby March31st.

4. CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions of the Protectiion of Birds Act, 19154. Any members failing to support and keep this law shall be reqUired to resign. Members may riot divulge to unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and/or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of the Club.

5. SUBSCRIPTIONS. (a) Junior members, over 12 but under 18 years of age, 5Op. Ordinary members, 18 years andover, £1.50. A married couple, £2. Any additional members of a household ClOp. Subscriptions are payable on January 1storon election to membel'llblp. Corporate Members. Kindred bodies. Schools etc.. Subscription one pound and I) pence perannum. Honorary Members. As approved by the majority present at the Annual General Meeting. (b) All subscriptions subsequent to those paidon admission, shall be due on January 1st each year. Where a member has been elected on or after 1st September in any year, there will be no further liability to subscribe in the year immediately following that of his or her election. Any Member whose SUbscription is six months in arrears shall cease to receive the Club's publications and, should the subscription not be paid by December 31st, his or her name shall be deleted from the list of Members.

6. MANAGEMENT. The Secretary shall keep Minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature as shall keep Members informed of the Club's activities.

7. MEETINGS shall be held as often as deemed desirable at the discretion of the Officers.

8. REPORT. There shall be an Editorial Committee of at least three Members including the Secretary, appointed at an ordinary Co~mittee Meeting. These sbaJ.l prepare and present an Annual Report-.-t such special reports as may be decided upon.

9. ALTERATION OF RULES. An alteration of the Rules may be made only if proposed at one meeting, printed on the agenda for the following meeting, and passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. Photo by H. McSweeney 366 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 EDITORIAL

Says Shylock - "You do take my life "Ifyou do take the means whereby I live"

Destruction of habitat, under mechanical farming, is probably the biggest single factor in reducing our bird population. This is backed up by poisons and by the toll of the road. Add to that the ice-age of 1978-79 and it is wonderful that the population has maintained such a level. A further adverse factor lies in the corvidae, who flourish and their destructiveness is great. Magpies' and crows' nests are easily found in April and members might do well to destroy them where possible, by gun or by pokingthem down.

As to the 1979 winter, the effects are rather puzzling. The predators seem little the worse. Turtle-doves, wintering in Africa, are at their lowest count since 1970, collared doves, who winter here, at their highest. Kingfishers, victims of 1962-1963, again sufferedbut notas in 1963. Yet the three woodpeckers, who suffered grievously in 1963 seem little affected by 1979. The tiny species - wrens, tree~creepers, goldcrests - have taken the biggest knock, though long-tailed-tits stood the weather better. Again, and despite the bitter season, there is a big crop of wintering blackcaps. Grey and pied wagtails, insectiverous though they be, have survived surprisingly well. The gallant chaffinch perhaps comes out top! On the whole the losses have been severe but less grievous than expected.

The number of notes sent in during 1979 is greater than ever, which is most encouraging. The Editor, in compiling the records, has tried less to award 'scalps' to the observers of rarities than to give a line on the status of the various species.

None the less there is a fair crop of rarities and semi-rarities. Alpine Accentor and Slavonian Grebe are first records, Velvet Scoter a second. Wood Sandpiper is a rare record. Nightingale, Long-eared Owl and Nightjar are back on the menu, and Black Redstartand Hoopoe also appear.

It is right to record here that the Club received an unexpected legacy of £100. bequeathed to the Club by the late Mrs. M Bowden a generous gift[or whicli we are most grateful. TRHO HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 367

CLUB ACTIVITIES

FieldMeetings January Castleton, Wye February Cors Tregaron, National Nature Reserve March GowerCoast, Whiteford Point Malvern Hills - Hollybush Common April Moor Park, Richards Castle OlchonValley - Black Mountains May Haugh Wood census New Forestand Weymouth area - week-end visit ShucknallHill for Nightingales Ladye Grove - Birley

June Fawley, KingsCaple N. , Madley ElanValley Cwm Oergwm Valley, July The Begwns, September Maelienydd Severn Estuary October LlynHilyn Haugh Wood census November MalvernHills December Bryngwyn Common 368 HERll':FORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

Indoor

March 'Alaska, the last greatWilderness' - Bryan Sage. 'Any Questions'

May A.G.M.

Sept. 'Swans in Britain' - Malcolm Ogilvie

Oct. 'Scandinavia Continued' - Dr. John Raines 'British Birds andPhotography' - Roy Blewitt

Nov. 'An evening with Trevor Gunton - Holland, Europe, and SouthAfrica'. 'R.S.P.B. Film Show' - Hereford TownHall

Dec. 'The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds', a talk by Carl Nicholson, Midlands Regional Officer

All indoor meetings held in the Percival Hall unless otherwise stated. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 369

RINGING REPORT FOR 1979

Details of Ringing activities in Herefordshire have been submitted by five qualified Ringers, and though this number should be increased next year, both S.T. and C.D.T.M. are abroad. S.T. had continued working with waterway species and C.D.N.J. managed a productive Nest Box site in the north of the County, finishing the year with good catches of winter visitors elsewhere. G.A.V. and R.S.V. listed fifty species and hope to include PiedFlycatchers from newly sitedboxes in 1980. General Ringing figures added to the Nest Box Site figures gave a total of 1105 fully grown birds and 2109 Pulli. This total was made up of 62 species, and included Common Sandpiper (3), Redpoll (2), Long-tailed Tit (23), Brambling (28), Bullfinch (48), Blackcap (62), Dipper (73) and Fieldfare (86). In the following selected recoveries, ringing details are given on the first line and recovery data on the second. M-Male, F-Female, Pull-Nestling, Ad-Adult, V-caught and released with ring, +-found dead. CANADA GOOSE 503143 Ad.M. 06.07.75. Ellesmere, Salop. + 07.04.79. Moccas, Hereford. (A.M.) 82KmS. KESTREL EB 90625. Pull. 29.06.78. Shobdon, N. Hfds. (C.D.T.M.) + 02.11.78. Slade, Oxwich, Gower, Glam. 115KmS.W. EH. 33368. Pull. 06.06.78. Croome, Defford, Worcs. (J.R.H.) FBV. 23.06.79. EastHampton Farm, Shobdon. 54 Km. W.N.W. (D.G.B.) DIPPER XA 79246 Pull. 20.04.78. CwmBridge, S.Hfds. S.J.T.) V.03.10.79. Crasswall, S. Hfds. 5KmN.W. (S.J.T.) CR 66991 Pull. 08.05.79. Broad Oak, S. Hfds. (S.J.T.) V 01.10.79. Osbaston, Mon. 7Km S.E. (S.J.T.) BLACKBIRD XC 88873 Ad.M. 28.11.77. Shobdon, Hfds. (C.D.T .M.) + 08.12.78. Thisted, Jutland, Denmark. sooKm N.W. GREY WAGTAIL A 377344&47 Pull. 06.06.79. Great Goytre, R.Monnow. (S.J.T.) V 26.06.79. Crasswall, S. Hfds. 14KmN.W. (S.J.T.) STARLING XC 88930 Ad. 11.12.77. Ashperton Park, Tarrington, Hfds. C.D.I.M.) + 05.06.79. SintMaartensbrug, Schagen. N. Holland. 680KmE.N.E. 370 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1919

PIED FLYCATCHER JR 04406 Pull. 11.06.78. Wigmore, N. Hfds. (C.D.I.M.) FB + 15.05.79. Shobdon, N. Hfds. 4 Km S. (D.G.B.) JR 03320 Ad. FB 28.05.75. Moccas Park, Hereford (D.G.B.) B 27.05.79. Moccas Park, Hereford. also '76,'77,'78, (D.G.B.) JR 03319 Ad. FB 28.05.75. Moccas Park, Hereford. (D.G.B.) B 27.05.79. Moccas Park, Hereford also '76,'77,'78 (D.G.B.) FB + 29.05.79.

JR04790PuI1.25.06.78 Shobdon,N.Hfds. (D.G.B.) FB + 29.05.70. Wigmore (C.D.N.J.) JR 04532 Ad. FB 06.06.78. Moccas Park, Hereford. (D.G.B.) B 06.06.79. Godden, Byton, Shobdon. 22KmN. (C.D.N.J.) KV 49052 Pull. 13.06.78. , , . (T.A.A.) FB 02.06.79. Gatley Park, N. Hfds. 45 Km. S.S.E. (D.G.B.) JR 03331 Ad.ME. 31.05.75. Gatley Park. (D.G.B.) B 16.06.79. Gatley Park, also 1978 (D.G.B.) JR 63566 Pull. 11.06.78. Mary Knoll, N. Hfds. (C.J.M.) 07.05.79. Pauillac, Gironde, France. 960 Km. S.S.E. A 308603 Pull. 14.06.79. Llandefaelog, Brecon (R.J.H.) 05.08.79. Llangrove, S.Hfds. 53Km.E.S.E. (R.S.V.)

EB 90625 was killed by a Buzzard, JR 04406 by a GreatTit, and JR 04790 by a Great-SpottedWoodpecker. Ringing details have been received for Herefordshire Nest Box Sites at Aymestry, Bockleton, Bromyard (2), Gatley, Llangrove, Mansel Lacy, Mary Knoll, Moccas, Mowley, Shobtlon (2), and Wigmore, either from Ringers or the site managers (J. L. Fox, P. Gardner). All but two are potential or actual Pied Flycatcher Sites, and the following figures include some birds ringed near the site out of the breeding season. Great Tit 22 Ad. + 353 Pulli Blue Tit 48 Ad. + 562 Pulli Coal Tit 3 Ad. + 37 Pulli MarshTit 1 Ad Nuthatch 29 Pulli Redstart 1 Ad. 19 Pulli Pied Flycatcher 26 Ad: (15F llM) + 333 Pulli HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 371

There were 31 Pied Flycatcher site recoveries (24F 6M 1?), of which 8 are detailed above, 8 were birds moving from birth site to another local one, and 15 were birds found at the sites they were ringed at in previous years.

Keys to Initials. T. A. Allport, D. G. Boddington, R. J. Haycock, J. R. Hodson, C. D. N. Johnson, A. Marchant, C. D. T. Minton, C. J. Mead. S. J. Tyler, G. A. Vowles, R. S. Vowles. D. G. Boddington.

NEST BOXSCHEME 1979

This year recording took place on 33 sites, new sites included in this report are Wapley Hill Byton. Hollywell Dingle and Lea and Paget's Woods, (the latter two being Herefordshire and Radnorshire Nature Trustproperties). Sites 33 Total boxes 1026 Boxes used 498 Percentage used 51% 1979 1978 Nest Fld. Nest Fld. Pied Flycatcher 132 705 136 674 Blue Tit 153 1036 176 1133 GreatTit. 133 736 172 1058 Marsh Tit 3 25 4 29 Coal Tit 11 101 11 77 Redstart 5 43 5 12 Nuthatch 7 51 5 51 Wren 3 9 41+ Others 51 16

Successful. 498

Losses mainly due to desertion and predation by weasels, with frosts extending into May and cold weather last Winter affected the number of breeding birds available in the spring. The best site for Wrens yielded a zero return. The majority of the varieties to breed in boxes were down on lastyear's figures. Comments on returns. Mr. P. Gardner reported that nesting material used in the boxes was exceptionally dry even in messy nesting species. One female Great Tit at Mary Knoll had two broods, the first brood ten eggs and the second brood seven eggs. 372 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

Court Wood produced one box of Pied Flycatchers, this is the second year the boxes were erected. Dr. Boddington reported Four Pied Flycatchers using the boxes at Shobdon, the birds being previously ringed in Herefordshire.

Mr. Miles Baddely gives the following results from his nest-box scheme at Byton. There were 151 boxes, of which 103 were utilised, a 68% occupation. Twelve species of birds successfully raised 459 fledglings, as under.-

Blue Tit. 159 Great Tit 106 Tree Sparrow 92 Coal Tit 19 Spotted Flycatcher 18 Nuthatch 14 Pied Flycatcher 14 Stockdove 13 Starling 11 Marsh Tit...... •...... 7 Kestrel. 3 House Sparrow 3,

The biggest clutch was a family of 14 Blue Tits, and one Tree Sparrow was triple-brooded. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 373

BREEDING KESTRELS AT EASTHAMPTON FARM In 1976 I placed a 5 gallon Bulmer's cider barrel on an oak tree adjacent to the farm buildings to attract Tawny Owls which are numerous in the area. Itwas occupied by Stock Doves and in 1978 was taken overby a pair of Little Owls (see 1978 Report). A male Kestrel had most winters roosted in the tree. In early April I heard considerable noise coming from the vicinity and noted a pair of Kestrels, the female perched on a dead bough screaming her uttermost and the male displaying round about. They had apparently ousted the Little Owls.

Diary of Events Following

May 10th Copulation observed. May 17th Incubation commenced (on 5 eggs) June 20th 3 young hatched (2 addled eggs removed) June 22nd Dr. Boddington ascertained that the female was carrying a ring (details see Report). July 3rd 3 young ringed by Dr. Boddington. July 20th 1 juvenile leftbarrel. JUly 30th Female enticingyoung to neighbouring tree. August 6th All young practisinghovering. August 8th Firstsigns of hunting. August 22nd Leftarea completely.

V. C. Lewis spent some 80 hours (in a hide) with these Kestrels recording all the various calls etc. and making notes on behaviour.

Considerable material, small twigs, grass etc. was used to make the nest in the shape of a deep saucer. During incubation and for the first week after hatching the male did all the hunting, the female never left the tree, she did the plucking of the prey. The male would return every three or four hours, the female appeared to know when he was about to return - otherwise she would call him with no end of clatter longbefore he hove in sight.

The male was thought to hunt mainly within one mile of the nest and it was notable that the local Sparrowhawks did not use the same area. He was observed taking young Blackbirds and Sparrows. The prey was considered to be more than 50% birds (inclUding a young Cuckoo). This is in contrast to a nest at Whitton where the prey must have been 90% mammals. Figures given in B.T.O. Bird StUdy September 1979 from an analysis of Kestrel pellets states bird prey items account for 7% of the bird's diet. :rT4 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

The female was a first yearbird (breedingduring the first year is not considered normal for Kestrels). She proved to be an excellent mother, she fed them adequately (one young one was ~lways a few days behind the others) and encouraged them to learn to fly, hoverand hunt. No doubt they will be just as efficient as parents.

In this areaKestrels have bred in holes in trees, quarries, farm buildings, church towers, aircraft hangars and old Crows' nests. They rarely nestat the same site in consecutive years.

At the year's end a male Kestrel is back roosting in the tree and during the day a Little Owl is callingfrom the branches.

Itis intriguing to considerwhat may happen in 1980. I would like to acknowledge the help received and the interest taken in the birds by Dr. Boddington and SquadronLeaderLewis. T. R. Ammonds. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 375

TABLE MANNERS

The lucky ones among us may encounter a Purple Sandpiper or an Icterine Warbler. Most of us, amateurs, have to get our joy from the hum-drum bird life of garden and village.

There is nothing better than hard weather for revealing not only the behaviour of species but the individual character, whims and caprices of bird personalities, for birds have individual character, sometimes nearly as marked as that of humans.

Mr. Spink is a chaffinch. He has adopted us now for six years, coming and demanding his morsel by tapping impatiently at the window and, when hungry, feeding from my hand or waylaying me anywhere up to the orchard hedge, which is the boundary of his far-flung empire.

Spink is a character. When hard weather comes and feeding is regular, he considers himself privileged and 'acts according'. The one foe he cannot cope with is Hitler, a particular cock sparrow. Hitler is a bandit, knows that with Spink about there will be a hand-out, takes up a position a yard behind the favourite, and when an offering is cast down he swoops down on to it like a Harpy. Otherwise Spink rules the roost, though as a patrician he does not like mixing with the plebs, the Ubiquitous and vulgar sparrow. Whatever ruse one tries nothing can prevent those aggressive little pests from scooping a major share of the largesse offered.

The technique of birds is a delight to watch. The robin is an Irishman, he would rather be fighting someone than be full, and his approach to food includes one or two thoughtful pauses and sideways hops before the final run-in. Not so the cloud of little tom-tits, smart and brilliant, who rival Hitler himself in quickness on the ball, and who quarrel with each other but never with a foreigner. Great Tits are more dignified and in less of a hurry. One of the most attractive guests is the little dunnock, who never feeds up aloft but always on the ground, creeping like a busy wee mouse. Blackbi~ds, I find, have to be fairly hungry before they will come close, and thrushes even hungrier, but they are easy to help thanks to their addiction to rotting apples. When blackbirds do come, then Jemima, the leading lady, will see off anybody, of her own or other species. The exception, the absolute boss, is the greater-spotted woodpecker, nobody will stand up to his businesslike beak, butwith us he is a rarity. 376 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

An endearing quality among my birds is that piracy is rare. Finding's keeping. Very seldom, when a guest has got his beakful, is he molested or robbed by a cousin or a neighbour.

Provide water as well as food. All garden birds like water, not only to drink but to splash and bathe in. They are a picture of delight, rufflingup feathers and washingunder the wings. Even a lumbering pigeon will sometimes descend and take over the stone trough. And however much one dislikes the vulgarian sparrow, he is the most cleanly of all, and will occupy the bathroom while his betters stand in a queue waiting their turn.

So look for individual character. Birds are not egalitarians or proletarians. Originality and variety are the spice of life. T.R.H.O. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 377

HORS D'OEVRES

1. AtLuston an exhausted heron arrived in a local garden. Itwas fed on sardines, and came back for more with the return of hard weather (FMP). 2. At Luston again a tawny owl carried off a blackbird in broad daylight from the bird-table. It returned on subsequent days to a particular vantage point in an apple tree, whence it could overlook other guests and potential victims.

3. It is not only the corvidae who pester the hawks. On May 16th at Glan Llyn ROBG watched two ring ouzels mobbing a passing buzzard.

4. The banks of the Wye at Hampton Bishop are favourite nesting places for sand-martins. One colony in 1979 numbered about 40 nests. JLF and JVF here watched the predation of a stoat, in full sunshine. It was 11 a.m. on July 2nd. The stoat would enter the nest hole, disappear for a few seconds, come out with a still fluttering sand-martin, and then scale the bank and take the prey to a bed of thistles about 20 yards away. Fifteen martins were taken out in 20 minutes. The presence of the stoat at the colony wasalways markedby a small cloud of anxious martins wheeling around the hole singled out for predation. It seemed that a stoat could abolish a reasonably large colony in an unreasonably short time.

5. At Aymestrey, F.W.M. reports, on May 28th a pair of pied wagtails constructed a nest inside the machinery of a 22RB excavator. The machine was in constant use for ten hours per day. The nest was situated approximately 9 inches below a drum containing a wire rope which revolved many thousands of times during the shift. Six eggs were laid, of which five hatched and three chicks fledged and flew. On one occasion, when maintenance was being carried out, the nest containing the young had to be removed for over two hours. Itwas placed on the warm engine to prevent them getting cold. They suffered no ill effects. The parents continued to feed the young while the machine was in action, completely ignoring the noise and the operator. An attempt to build a second nestwas disco~raged.

6. Swiftv. Starling, At Canon Pyon, so G.N.S. tells, two nest-boxes for sWifts were put up several years ago. The swifts on arrival found that starlings had anticipated them. The swifts however kept up a protest, and when the young starlings were fledged, the third week in May, the swifts took possession and reared two broods. 378 Next season it was hoped to frustrate the starlings by blocking up the holes until the swifts came. The starlings however beat the pistol, taking possession the moment the door was open. Once again the swifts waited for the starlings to quit and then took over.

Next season the starlings again got in first. The swifts kept up their protest until, in mid-May, a dead swift was found, with its head mutilated, presumably having tried to enter while the enemy were still the legal owners. On May 16th however two dead starUng chicks lay on the ground. The swifts kept up the harrassment so that the starlings hardly dared leave the nest. One or other would sit on the roof and fend off, with an amazing turn of speed, any swift that approached. Bed-time was the critical moment, when a starling would hang upside down at the entrance, to repel boarders.

The final round was won by the starlings, who raised a second brood. Who will come off bestin 198O? HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 379

CLASSIFIED NOTES The serial numbers and nomenclature used are those of the BTO Guide 3, "A species list of British and Irish Birds" 1971. Prefixes Hand R refer to Herefordshire and Radnorshire. CO denotes Club Outing. Square brackets denote a need for confirmation.

5 GREAT CRESTED GREBE. H. January, Titley, a pair (CWW), March 8thBodenham gravelpits a pair (CWW), and on July 10th a pair with four young, March 8th, Shobdon, three pairs who raised six young (TRA), July 17th, Flintsham, a pair with three young (MP), July, Kinsham pool, two (BEM), September17th, Hoarwithy, one (MW). R. one on June 21st (MP), June 17th, incubating (ROBG), July 7th, four and nest with 5 eggs (MP). Uan Bwchllyn April 5th, three pairs, all apparently with young, May 12th, two pairs and one nest, August 10th, four adults and five young (MP). Uandrindod March 14th, a pair, later nesting, June 17th, two with two young, October 6th, two (ROBG).

9 LITTLE GREBE H. Reported in all months, from Bredwardine (BCA) , Whitney (AM), Castleton six birds (AM), Aymestrey (FWM), LuggMeadows (AJS). R. Reported from Glasbury, five birds (MP), Llyn Hilyn (ROBG), Llandrindod (per MP), Pencerrig (MP), Llan Bwchllyn (MP).

27 GANNET H. March, Brampton Bryan, an adult found dead (perCWW).

28 CORMORANT H. Recorded at all seasons along the Wye as far up as Castleton. Numbers include 25 at Turner's Boat (CWW), 18 and 26 at Castleton (AJS), and 39 at Fownhope (JW) R. Caban Cochand Llandrindod (MP).

30 HERON. Herons suffered much from the arctic winter. H. The recently established Bredwardine colony had seven nests, Leach pool 10, and Berrington 56. Records of singles and pairs come from Whitney, Castleton, Kingsland, Aymestrey, Hereford, Ballingham, Luston, Hole-in-the-Wall, Llancillo and Hampton Park. R. heronry held three nests, Cefndyrys held 26. There are records from Elan, Glasbury, , Newbridge, Glan Llyn, Penmaenau, Dolymynach, , Rhulen. 380 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 45 MALLARD. H. Records are numerous and from the whole county. Bigger numbers are December 26th, Sink Green c.2oo(MW), January 7th, Castleton c.80 (AJS), August 12th, Almeley, 130 (AM), August, Ballingham, 100 (AM), September 17th, Hoarwithy, 135 (MW). R. Records are numerous.- February 3rd, Glasbury 41 (AM), January 17th, 230 (MW), c.150 Breeding was noted at Disserth, Pencerrig, Llandrindod and Penmaenau. On October 6th Hindwell gave c.150 and Llyn Hilyn 91 (ROBG).

46 TEAL. H. January 7th, Castleton, c.80 (AJS), February 13th, Lugg Meadows, 82 (JLF), March 4th, Sink Green, c.1oo (JLF). Smaller numbers, all in winter or early spring come from Moccas and Hereford. R. No large numbers. Records come from Bryngwyn, Newbridge, Moelienydd, Glasbury, Pen-y-Clawdd, Peny­ bont, LlanBwch Llyn andLlanwentre.

49 GADWALL.-H. May 26th, Brockhampton, a pair (FRF), March 8th, Kings Caple 2/3 pairs (KAM).

R. August21stLlynHilyn, one (IBE).

50 WIGEON. H. January 1st, Hampton Bishop, 42 (JLF), Bredwardine, 43 (BCA) , Fownhope, 35 (RAM), 7th, Castleton, 30 (AJS), 14th, Leintwardine c. 200 (FWM), February 27th, Turner's Boat 120 (CWW), Febuary, Warlow pool, 30 (TRHO), November lOth, Sink Green, two (JLF), March3rd, 15 (AM).

R. February 17th, Glasbury 20 (MP), 18th, 30 (AJS) , April 5th, Llan BwchLlyn, "a large flock" (CWW), November 6th, Llandrindod, one (MP).

53 SHOVELER. H. January 1st, Shobdon, four (RM).

55 SCAUP. H. February 23rd, Whitney, one (JMB).

56 TUFTED DUCK. H. Records galore. March 7th, Titley, 10 (BEM). Seen at all seasons but mostly late winter and early spring - Bredwardine (JLF), Aymestrey (FWM), Warlow (TRHO), Brockhampton (FRF), Kings Caple (CO), Glewstone (FMP), Moccas (AM), Collington (TRHO), Castleton (AJS), Shobdon, four broods (TRA), Aconbury (MW). R. April 13th, Llan Bwch Llyn, 16 (MP). Minor records run Hindwell (ROBG), Llyn Hilyn (ROBG) and Pencerrig. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 381

57 POCHARD. H. January 7th, Castleton, six, and on February 4th six, Hereford, six (CJR) March 14th, Holme Lacy, 5 (JLF), Bodenham, 25 (CWW). R. February 18th Glasbury, 14 (AJS), March 4th, Hindwell, five (ROBG), July 7th, LlanBwchLlyn, three (MP), October 6th, Dolymynach, two (ROBG), October 2nd, Hindwell, six (JLF), December 1st, Caban Coch, three (MP), 2nd, Llyn Hilyn, three (FWM).

60 GOLDENEYE. H. January 7th, two, and six on February 4th (AJS), 9th, Sink Green, one (JLF), February 17th, Castleton, two (MP), 18th, Whitney, two (AJS), October 29th, Holme Lacy, one (JLF), November 1st, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF), 17th, Castleton, three (AM). R. November 25th, Dolymynach, two (ROBG), December 1st, CabanCoch, one (MP).

62 VELVET SOOTER. H. February 16th -18th, Hereford Wye, one (ARM,KAMetal). (Asecondrecord-Ed)

69 RED BREASTED MERGANSER. H. February 22nd, Whitney, three (JMB), 25th, Castleton, a pair (AJS).

70 GOOSANDER. R. April 5th, Llan Bwch Llyn, 22 (CWW), May 16th, CabanCoch, one (ROBG), April-June, at least one pair nesting (MP), July 24th, , 24 (FWM), November 25th, Caban Coch, one, and Dolymynach, two (ROBG). AtCabanCoch two nests are reported by the RSPB Warden. December 1st, Garregddu,13 (MP).

75 GREY GEESE. H. January 17th, Winforton, two (CJR), & February, Welsh Newton, c. 80 (per FMP), October 1st. 76 Dinedor, 28 (MW).

78 PINK FOOTED GOOSE. H. August 26th, Moccas, one with Canadas (AM), December 16th, Whitney, one (AJS).

82 CANADA GOOSE. H. Janurary 1st, Holmes Marsh, c. 30 (AJS), February 24th, Castleton, c. 100 (AM), 25th, Brinsop, five (AJS), March 7th, Titley, a pair (CWW) 22nd, Warlow pool, seven (TRHO), June 5th, Collington, a pair with five goslings (TRHO), July 2nd, Titley 30 (CWW), Sept 3rd, 382 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

Shobdon, c. 120 (TRA), July 1st, Titley, 32 (BEM), August 21st, Moccas, c. 50 and the keeper reports another 150 (AM), September 17th, Aymestrey, 52 and November 23rd, c. 100 (AM), December 16th, Whitney, c.110 (AJS), 31st, Leintwardine, c. 240 (FWM). R. February 12th, Glasbury, 35 (MP), May 28th, Penybont, two with two young (ROBG).

84 MUTE SWAN. H. Widely noted. Principal items - February 4th, Wergins Bridge 35, and 40 at Mordiford (AM), March 22nd, Warlow, six (TRHO), September 26th, Castleton 13 (AM).

R. March 30th, Pwll PaUi, 17 (MP), May 13th, Builth Wye, five (MP), August 10th, Glasbury, a pair with eight young (FWM).

85 WHOOPER SWAN. H. February 11th, Fownhope, four (KAM).

86 BEWICK'S SWAN. H. January 27th, Credenhill, 20 (BMK), 30th, Holme Lacy, nine (JLF), May 14th, Swinmoor (a very late date) a pair (TRHO). R. January 21st, Glasbury, four with twoimmatures (MP).

91 BUZZARD.H. More than 60 records. De~pite this many members think that the buzzard's status has declined. Records come from Brilley, Bredwardine, Castleton, Aymestrey, Staunton, Sollers Hope, Nupend, Ledicot, Byford, Cusop, Callow, Moccas, Garway, Trigate, Okchon, Llancillo, Kentchurch, Woonton, Wapley, Holmes Marsh, Eastnor, Yarpole, Ledbury, Leintwardine, Luston, Welling­ ton, Clodock.

R. March 13th, Penybont, eleven (MP), April 10th, Elan, ten (HTR), Smaller records come from Elan, , Bryngwyn, Penybont, Llangunllo, Radnor Forest, Glan Llyn, Dolyfan, Llyn Hilyn, Moelienydd, Llanvihangel . HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 383

93 SPARROWHAWK. There are 50 records and the bird appears to be doingwell. H. Sightings cOIile from Hereford, Easthampton, Swinmoor, Brilley, Bredwardine, Aymestrey, Willersley, Llancillo, Ballingham, Titley, Welsh Newton, Craswall, Holme Lacy, Nupend, Stansbatch, Common Hill, Olchon, Norton Cannon, Castleton, Milton, Luston, Breinton,. R. Records come from Bryngwyn, Disserth, Penybont, Cefnllys, Glan Llyn, Bryn Thomas, Newbridge.

94 GOSHAWK. H. March 2nd, Wapley, noted (per JMB), June 7th, Eastnor, one well viewed (per JLF).

95 KITE. There are four records of kites in their usual Welsh territories.

100 HEN HARRIER. R. March 4th, Carreg Bica, one watched 20 minutes (ROBG), March, Waun Marteg, one caught in a crow.trap and released, (TRA), April 15th, Radnor area, seen during grouse shoot (TRA), November 24th, Llyn Hilyn, a male (ROBG), December, Radnor area, two seen, and later four (FWM), December 8th, Bryngwyn, one (JMB, EEG, AM), December 16th, Rhos Goch, one seen (FSB's).

103 OSPREY. H. May 12th, Old Whitney, one catching fish (per CWW), October 12th, Sink Green, one present till 21st (JLF et al.)

104 HOBBY. Two records come from central Herefordshire and one from Radnorshire. One of the Herefordshire pairs bred successfully.

105 PEREGRINE. H. April, Olchon valley, noted (PGB's), August 27th, Fownhope, one flying (AM), October, Castleton, one mobbed by ravens, (AJS), November 17th, Castleton, one, and Bryngwyn onDecember 1st (AM). R. January 21st, Glasbury, a first-year male swooped upon pigeons and corvidae (MP), June 9th, Radnorshire, a pair with three young (MP), June 16th-.o Elan. noted (CO), Sept 8th, Garreg ddu, two (ROBG), November 24th, Llyn Hilyn, one (ROBG).

107 MERLIN. H. Noted in Olchon valley (PGB's), April 12th, Olchon, one (IBE). 384 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

R. May 6th, Radnor area, noted (AM), 7th, Bryngwyn, one (AM), 29th, Painscastle, noted (JMB), July 8th, a male, and October 1st, Llyn Hilyn, one (FWM), August 18th, Redhill, a male (MW), 26th Bryngwyn, a female (MW), December 28th, Radnor, a male (FWM), December 8th, Rhulen, one (AM). 110 KESTREL. There are over 40 notes covering both counties and all seasons. The bird is thinly but widely distributed. Four birds were ringed in Olchon valley and three on Wapley.

111 RED GROUSE. R. April 18th, Llanbedr, three heard and one flushed (MP), May 7th, Bryngwyn, "normal" (AM), 15th, Glascwm, five pairs (FWM) , April - July, heard at six points (MP), August 21st, Redhill, five (MW).

113 BLACK GROUSE. H. September 14th, Sarnesfield, a female well viewed (AJS).

115 RED·LEGGED PARTRIDGE. H. & R. Sizeable coveys are noted· January 14th, Milton, 12 (TRA), October 29th, Eyton 15 (HTR), December 11th, Bryngwyn, 11 (EG's & FSB's). Smallersightings come from Clifforp (AM), Fawley (FRF), Welsh Newton (FMP), Swinmoor (TRHO), Sarnsfield (JMB) , commom Hill (KAM), Holmes Marsh (AJS), Barrel Hill (AJS), Leintwardine (FWM), Almeley (VMJ), Dinedor (MW), SeagerHill, Sugwas andLittle Dewchurch (MW).

116 PARTRIDGE. H. No big coveys are noted, •only ten at Leintwardine (FWM), ten at Kingsland (JHW), and 16 plus ten young at Ballingham (AM). Minor sightings come from Bredwardine, Castleton, Breinton, Aconbury, Brilley, Sutton, Kingsland, Sandiacre, Fawley, Letton, Fownhope, Sarnesfi~ld, Criftin ford and. Luston. On the whole a poor season. R. Recorded atCarneddau, a pairat 1,200 feet (MP).

117 QUAIL. H. May 21st, Holmes Marsh, calling from corn (AJS), June 14th, Madley, calling (TRHO), 21st, Shobdon airfield, at least ~ive and. 6/8 od a manure heap (TRA), 28th, Llangrove, callirig (AJS), July 1st, Milton, calling (JMB), 22nd, Wapley, heard (AM), July 9th Wapley, up on last year (MB), August 28th, Milton, ten flew as the corn was cut (JMB), August 16th, Shobdon, 20 estimated (TRA). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 385

118 PHEASANT. H. & R. Hardly recorded. Fair season at Madley (TRHO).

120 WATER RAIL. H. January 1st, Huntington, one well viewed (NM), January 27th, Shobdon, one seen, 20th, Brampton Bryan, two flushed (TRA), December 12th, Aymestrey, noted (FWM). R. April 5th, LlanBwchLlyn, two seen (CWW).

125 CORNCRAKE. H. May, Monkland, calling (TRA).

126 MOORHEN. H. & R. Quite a scarce bird now owing to drainage of ponds plus hard weather and the ravages of mink. October 6th, Hindwell. 22 (ROBG). Smaller records come from most parts.

127 COOT. Probably has done a trifle better than moorhens. H. No big numbers. Recorded from Kings Caple, Castleton 16 birds, Aymestrey, Whitney, Carrots Wye, Eyton, Warlow, Erwood 31 birds (MW). R. Llyn Hilyn, bignumbers, and maximum 72 on August 23rd (MP). Hindwell also did well, with 35 on October 2nd (JLF). Other records come from Glan Llyn, Glasbury, Llyn Hilyn, Pencerrig, Penybont, Llandrindod and Moelienydd.

131 OYSTERCATCHER. H. February 4th, Lugg Meadows, one (IBE), August 19th, Castleton, one (AM).

133 LAPWING. H. & R. A poor season with few scattered birds breeding. Some large non-breeding flocks include - August 19th, Castleton c. 2,000 (AM), Llandrindod, 1,000 (MP), March 3rd, Letton 500 (ROBG), August 16th, Hampton Bishop, 1500 (JLF) , Shobdon 2,000 (TRA) on Feb 15th. Breeding records are few and principally in Radnorshire.

134 RINGED PLOVER. H. JUly 5th, Ballingham, three (AM).

135 LITTLE RINGED PLOVER. H. July 25th, one with Ringed plover (AM). 386 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

140 GOLDEN PLOVER. H. January 27th, Hampton Bishop, three (JLF), March 4th, Shobdon, 300, 18th, Winforton, 20 (AJS), 19th, Tarrington, several (AJS), twenty at Holmes Marsh (AJS), October 6th, Eardisley, 19 (ROBG), 28th, Castleton, 20, December 2nd, Shobdon, 2,000 (TRA). R. October 2nd, Moelienydd, heard (JLF), 18th, Bryn Thomas, three (MP), 21st, Penybont, 30/40 (Miss Leach), 31st, Glasbury, 200 (FWM).

145 SNIPE. H. February 4th, Castleton, 12 (AJS), 13th, Lugg Meadows, nine (JLF) , 16th, Welsh Newton, eight (FMP), November 11th, Castleton 30 (AJS), Singles and small groups come from Tillington, Aymestrey, Ballingham and Carrots Wye. R. November 3rd, Llandrindod area, c. 100 put up by shooters. Small numbers come from Glasbury, Llanelwedd, Llan Bwch Llyn, Moelienydd, Rhosgoch, Gilwern, Rhulen, LlynHilyn.

147 JACK SNIPE. Pl. January 1st, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF), November 11th, Castleton, one (AJS). R. February 21st, Newbridge, one (MP).

148 WOODCOCK. H. Aymestrey area, frequent (FWM), March 13th, Common Hill, roding (}{AM), April 1st, Moccas, one (AM), May 24th, Yarpole, three young (RNO), May 27th, Stanage, a nest (TRA), June, Welsh Newton, roding (per FWP), late June, Almeley, roding (VMJ), October 10th, Fiddler's Green, one (MW). R. April/May, Penybont, several (MP).

150 CURLEW. H. Modern farming is steadily reducing the curlew. Despite that records are legion and come from Whitney, Lugg meadows, Mansel Lacy, Brilley, Ledicot, Kingsland, Mortimers Cross, Swinmoor, Eardisley, Castleton, Ballingham, Welsh Newton, Blakemere, Eyton, Tarrington, Dinedor, Luston and Leintwardine and Sollars Hope. R. April/July, 50 pairs from 20 recorded places (MP), August 28th, Glasbury, 110 (MP). Small numbers come from many directions. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 387

151 WIUMBREL. H. Holmes Marsh, April 21st, calling (AJS).

156 GREEN SANDPIPER. H. January 8th, Hereford Wye, tlJ.ree (AJS), 14th, Leintwardine, four (FWM), February 4th, Castle~n, three (AJS), August 8th, Leintwardine, six (FWM), October 18th, Criftin Ford, four (MW), December 14th, Carrots Wye, one (BEM). R. March 10th, Glasbury, two (MP), August 1st, Moelienydd, one (MP).

157 WOOD SANDPIPER. H. Hampton Bishop, October 3rd, one (JVF).

158 COMMON SANDPIPER. H. April 19th, Sink Green, two (JLF) , 22nd, Castleton, two (AJS), 26th, Aymestrey, one (FWM) , May 3rd to 8th, present on Llancillo Monnow, Whitchurch, Kentchurch, Llangiwa (SJT) , June, Llancillo, young on the wing (TRHO), 26th, Brampton Bryan, one (SJT), August 11th, Castleton, six (AM), October 12th, Fownhope, one (MW). R. April 21st, Garreg ddu, a pair (HTR), May 14th, Cefnllys, two, and Dolymynach, two (ROBG), July 7th, Glasbury, two pairs (MP).

161 REDSHANK. H. March 21st, Lugg meadows, calling (CWW), May, Staunton, one (per JLF), July 7th, Aymestrey, one (FWM), August8th, Kingsland, noted (JHW), December 26th, Sink Green, one (MW). R. March 10th, Glasbury, two, April 18th, Llanbedr, one (MP), May 7th, Bryngwyn, two (AM), 13th, Rhosgoch, a pair (MP).

165 GREENSHANK. H. August 7th, Holme Lacy, two (ROBG), 11th, Castleton, one (AM), September 1st, Castleton, one (AJS). R. August 28th, Glasbury, one (MP).

178 DUNLIN. H. .Ifebruary 17th, Hereford Wye, one (ARM);­ September 12th, Castleton, two (AJS). R. May 17th, Bryngwyn, one, and 25th, Moelienydd, one (FWM), July 27th, Moelienydd, one (FWM). 388 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

184 RUFF. H. December 31st, Luggmeadows, one, (lBE).

198 GREATER BLACK·BACKED GULL. R. August 24th, , one on telephone post (WL-S).

199 LESSER BLACK·BACKED GULL. H. Big numbers show ­ January/February, Sutton, c. 300 on refuse tip (CWW), January 26th, Moreton, 70 (AJS), Smaller numbers run ­ Titley (RLV), Brilley (WL-S), Castleton (AJS), Holmes Marsh (AJS), Aymestrey (FWM), AlmeleyWooton (VMJ). R. July 8th, Llanfihangel, 35 (ROBG), August 1st, Dolau, 100 (MP). Small numbers from Bryngwyn (FWM), Elan, Glasbury, Erwood, Builth, Newbridge, Pencerrig, Llandrin­ dodo

200 HERRING GULL. H. January 11th, SuttonWalls, three adults (CWW), March 11th, Castleton, one (AJS).

201 COMMON GULL. H. January 9th, Sutton Walls, 300 (CWW), February 25th, Castleton, one (AJS), 27th, Yazor, one (AJS), March 16th, Mansel Lacy, several, 24th Holmes Marsh, 120 (AJS), 28th, Peterchurch, 200 (AJS), April 9th, Lugwardine 100 (AJS), November 22nd, Glewstone, 40 (AJS). R. February 18th, Glasbury, one (AJS)

208 BLACK·HEADED GULL. H. March 11th, Castleton, 200 (AJS), JUly 13th, Aymestrey, 46 (FWM), JUly 7th, Eardisley, 300 (ROBG), September 21st, Yatton, 140 (MW), December 17th, Luggmeadows, 700 (AJS). R. March 3rd. Llyn Hilyn (ROBG), April 15th, Bryngwyn, 200, (ROBG), May 17th, Penyclawdd, no birds this year, Rhosgoch, 250 (MP), Llan Bwch Llyn, 30 nests occupied but much predation. 31st, Llandeilo, 200 and 100 nests, June 9th, Glascwm 15 nests (MP), May/June, Rhiw Garn, a new colony, 200 nests (TRA), July 13th, Moelienydd, 100 nests (FWM).

H. July 27th, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF), September 13th, Trigate, two (MW).

R. July 7th, LlanBwchLlyn, one (MP). 247 TERN Sp H. July 27th, Hampton Bishop, one (JVF) September 13thTrigate, two (MW). R. July 7th, Llan Bwch Llyn, one (MP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 389

232 STOCKDOVE. H. March 25th, Castleton, c.20 (AJS), May, bred at Aymestrey (FWM) at Aconbury, Breinton, How Caple, Swinmoor in an oWl-box, Holme Lacy and Ballingham (MW), May/June, singing at Llancillo and Lyepole and Sollars Hope where two broods were raised (RF). November, Easthampton, c. 40 (TRA). R. March 4th, Llanyre, two (ROGB), 14th, Bryn Thomas, 24, and 40 at Llyn Hilyn on April 18th (MP), May 13th, Cefndyrys, breeding (TRA), 15th, Llandrindod, one (ROBG), August 1st Dolau, eight (MP), November 18th, LlanBwchLlyn, four (AJS).

234 WOODPIGEON

253 TURTLE DOVE. H.April19th, Whitney, one (WL-S), May 8th, Dinedor, one (JLF), 16th, Stansbatch, two in song (TRA) and noted at Wapley, 5th, Collington, in song (TRHO), July 6th, Sollers Hope, singing (RF), September 4th, Stretton Sugwas, two (AJS), 23rd, Kentchurch, one (MW).

236 COLLARED DOVE. H. & R. A flourishing species and distributed over the whole area, sometimes in numbers, e.g. February 17th, Glasbury, 56 (MP) and April 9th, Sink Green, 24 (MW).

237 CUCKOO. H. First heard at Luston on April 15th (JHW) and at Lulham (TRHO), last "cuckoo" heard at Swinmoor, July 3rd. R. MP writes "Widely spread in Radnor and at least 20 males located."

241 BARN OWL. H. There are an encouraging number of records. One bird was found dead and was thought to have been a winter victim. Most are viewed out hunting in daylight. Two were seen together at Norton Canon in January (AJS). One at Sutton took over the tithe barn as residence. Singles are scattered over the whole year and come from Sugwas (W. Pickford), Lawton Cross, Bodenham and Aymestrey (FWM), Eyton (KR), Hampton Bishop (KAM), Norton Canon and Yazor (AJS), Rotherwas and Callow (AJS), Old Gore, Holme Lacy and Yatton (AJS), Ledbury (DEMB), Ullingswick (FWM), Fownhope (MW) and Luston (GAB). 390 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

R. Records come from Llandrindod, Glasbury, Abbey Cwmhir (MP), LlowesandLlanyre (MP).

246 LITTLE OWL. H. & R. The bird has been reluctant to push westwards, but this year seems to have done so. Records cover the whole year and come from Clodock, Olchon, and Pwll Patti, all of them in the western half, also from Swinmoor two pairs, 9urney' sOak, Dorstone, Tidnor, Lawton Cross, Milton, Titley, Holmer, Clifford, Wormelow, Rushock, Moccas, Blakemere, Bredwardine, Stansbatch, Holmes Marsh three pairs, Yazor, Sarnesfield, Norton Canon, Woonton, Brinsop, Mansel Lacy, Yatton, Easthamp­ ton, Eyton, How Caple, Little Dewchurch, Llanwarne, Sutton seven birds, Breinton, Sugwas, Michaelchurch, Shobdon and Sollers Hope.

247 TAWNY OWL. H. Resident wherever enough trees are left. Reports come from Luston (FMP), Aymestrey "a good breeding season" (FWM), Brilley "very vocal" (WL-S) , Bredwardine two' young (AM), Madley (AM), Ballingham two hunting and two young (AM), Symonds Yat "scarce" (MPW), Easthampton, a pair with two young, prey including collared doves (TRA), Conigree, heard in November (DEMB), Woolhope area seven birds, Dinedor seven birds, Holme Lacy, Bartestree, How Caple and Sutton. R. Glasbury and Newbridge (MP), Llandrindod (ROBG), Cefnllys (ROBG) and Llanyre (MP).

248 LONG·EARED OWL. H. March 18th, one watched for half an hour on the Dinedor Road (AM).

249 SHORT·EARED OWL. R. Beacon Hill, June 10th, one in the heather (CO).

252 NIGHTJAR. H. July 5th, Wapley, returned after 20 years, July 10th, one seen and heard (FWM), August 12th, How Caple, singingand 'clapping' (MW).

255 SWIFT. H. & R. First seen at Mordiford, May 3rd (JLF), then 7th, Stansbatch (RLV) and Kingsland (JHW). Latest record August 10th, some 200 migrants (FWM), then Glasbury on 28th and Hereford 29th (MP). the Birtley boxes had nine pairs who reared 16 young (TRA). HEREFORDSIDRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 391

258 KINGFISHER. H. & R. Nearly finished in 1963 they were again hit bywinter butless virulently. Wye records come from Castleton, Carey, Glasbury, Hereford, Shelwick, Belmont, Diserth, Ballingham, Breinton. Luggnews is Wharton, Kingsland, Pinsley, Lyepole. Arrow has an entry from Eardisland. Monnow, Clodock and Llancillo, where three hovering together provided a sight (TRHO). Miscellaneous sightings come from Cefnllys, Builth, Moelienydd, Llandrindod, Howey Penmaenau, Bredwardine.

281 HooPOE. H. Early July, Welsh Newton (per FWP). May 20th, Breinton (perCWW).

282 GREEN WOODPECKER. The "Yaffle" and his two cousins seem to have survived theice-age better than in1962-63. Witness the records - "Quite numerous" (JLF), "easily the most common of the woodpeckers" (MP), "widely recorded" (MW), "Young noticed on Common Hill" (KAM), "betterthan 1963" (TRHO), "survivedwinter well" (MP). Records, for every month, come from Cusop (AM), Pagets Wood (CWS), Kingsland and Croft (JHW), SoIlers Hope (RF), Llancillo, Longtown, Lyepole, Madley (TRHO), Ballingham, Castleton, Aymestry, Rhydspence (AM), Mordiford (JSP), Moccas and Dinedor (AM), Foy, Holmes Marsh (AJS), Clifford (AJS), Hampton Park and Nupend (BEM), Almeley (VMJ), Luston (GAB), Hereford (WMG), Many of these are breeding records. R. Records, in spring, come from Cefnllys, Neuadd (ROBG) and Moelienydd (AJS).

283 GREATER SPOTTED WOODPECKER. H. Records cover every season - Tillington (RDJ), Callow and Dinedor (AM), SoIlers Hope (RF), Withington and Paget's Wood (CWS), Fownhope (CJR), Kingsland drumming (JHW), Fawley (CO), Swinmoor (TRHO), Aymestrey (AM & FWM), Llancillo and Lyepole (TRHO), Mordiford (JSP), Moccas (AM), Wapley with nest only 3 feet from ground (MP), Criftin Ford and Kentchurch (MW), Luston drumming on November 4th (GAB), Hereford andBreinton (WMG). R. May, Cefnllys, Llan, BwchLlyn andDisserth (MP). 392 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

264 LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER. The least common of the three. H. January 28th, Ledbury (RCM), March 19th, Common Hill (KAM), JUly 4th, Swinmoor (TRHO), 10th, Wapley, nest at 20 feet (ME), 26th Holmes Marsh (AJS), July, Almeley, a bird aggressive to tits (VMJ), August 12th, Dinedor two birds (MW) and Breinton (per WMG), September 8th, Kington (AJS), October 1st, Aymestrey, Sandiacre and Sned Wood (FWM), October, Common Hill (KAM), November 2nd, Malverns (JLF). R. June 17th, Glan Llyn, feeding young (ROBG), July 10th, Pencerrigand Glasbury (MP).

271 WOODLARK. No record from the 1978 site.

272 SKYLARK. H. January 22nd, Hampton Bishop, c. 400 (JLF), February 24th, Holmes Marsh in song (AJS), December, Hampton Bishop, immigrants on young corn (JLF). R. March 16th, BrynThomas, c. 250 in heavy snowfall (MP).

274 SWALLOW. H. First record Bridge Sollers (MB) and Mansel Lacy, April 11th, (AJS), September 30th, Aymestrey, "Huge northerly movement" (FWM). Probably an average season, but several members note a decrease. R. First arrival at Llandrindod, April 10th (MP). Last entry October 12th, Llandrindod (MP).

276 HOUSE MARTIN. H. First entry April 12th, Sink Green (JLF), last entry October 3rd c. 40 at Welsh Newton (AJS). Martins are fewer than Swallows, but no members have commented on status. Birds nested underTregate bridge.

277 SANDMARTIN. H. and R. First entry March 28th, Aymestrey (FWM). No late stayers after August. Martins are at a very low ebb and all colonies seem to be weak, e.g. Llanyre two pairs, Pencerrig, two Disserth, one, Alpine bridge, two, Llyn Gwyn, two. Glasbury had 25 nest-holes, and Builth area 20. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT1979 393

278 RAVEN. Ravens seem to have done well, and records are legion and cover the whole year. H. Records come from Bredwardine (BCA) , Hereford (CWW), Aymestrey (ROBG), Swinmoor with seven vocal birds on November 30th (TRHO), Moccas (AM), Whitney (CWW), Common Hill (KAM), Yarsop and Holmes Marsh (AJS), Broad Oak (AJS), Wapley (MB), Leintwardine. (FWM), Kentchurch, Dinedor, Wigmore (MW). R. Records include , Dolymynach, Llandrindod (ROBG), Bryngwyn (FWM), Cefnllys, Gilwern, Llandrindod (MP), Neuadd (MP), Llanbister, Rhulen, Rhosgoch, Builth, Llyn Gwyn (MP), Radnor Forest Penybont, Elan eight birds (HTR).

280 CARRION CROW. Flourishingand a menace to small birds. R. WaunMarteg, 100 caughtin trap.

282 ROOK. H. & R. Rooks suffer sadly from loss of copses and hedgerow timber, but numbers are probably static. At Shobdonbuildingbegan as earlyas February 28th (TRA).

283 JACKDAW. H. & R. ROBG records c. 250 at Glan Uyn on July 8th, and MW found c. 440 on October 14th, mobbing a buzzard.

284 MAGPIE. H. & R. Everyone agrees that magpies have increased and are a menace to their betters. A flock of 15 is reported by MP on February 22nd atPenmaenau.

286 JAY. H. Records come from Madley (TRHO), Welsh Newton (FMP), Sollers Hope (RF), Aymestrey (FWM), Brilley (WL-S) , HaughWood, 11 birds on October28th (AM). R. Glan Llyn and Cefnllys (ROBG), Rhydfelin, , Penmaenau (MP), caban Coch (ROBG), "Common in many woods" (MW)

288 GREAT TIT. H. January, Ledbury "Many" (RCM), January 19th, one with no tail atBrilley (WL-S).

289 BLUE TIT. No records but they seem to have wintered well. 394 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

290 COAL TIT. H. & R. Coal tits seem to favour the Radnor side. Records, mostly in summer are - Brilley (WL-S) , Sollers Hope (RF), Cefnllys (MP), Dolyfan (ROBG), Howey and Llandrindod (ROBG), Penybont, Newbridge, Llyn Gwyn and Builth (MP), and MP reports "Widespread in conifer plantations". Present in Haugh and Paget's Wood (CWW).

292 MARSH TIT. H. TRHO and others note the absence of Marsh tits. MPW records them at Dowards Crest, FMP at Welsh Newton, JMB at Kington, AJS at Holmes Marsh, JLF at Midsummer Hill. R. Notes come from Llandrindod, Llanyre, Glasbury, Cefnllys (MP) Llandeilo and Alpine Bridge (MP).

293 WILLOW TIT. H. March 11th, Aymestrey, two (AM & FWM), April 6th, Olchon, noted (CO), July 5th, Holmes Marsh, singing (AJS), 17th, at Fishpool, a family (MW). R. February 18th, Glasbury, noted (AJS), April 24th, Newbridge, Cefrulys, Llanelwedd (MP), April 16th, Elan (CO), Penybont (MP), October 2nd, Llanbister (JLF), Llan BwchLlyn, Glasbury, Moelienydd (MP).

295 LONG·TAILED·TIT. The winter dealt harshly with them, some have survived. H. Records come from all seasons, and some of the bigger families are - ten at Hereford (CJR), February 4th Sollers Hope, six (RF), Ballingham, twelve on August 27th (AM), 12 at st. Woolston's wood (FMP) , 12 at Hampton Bishop (JLF), and in Paget's wood "large numbers" (MW). Minor records are· Brilley (WL-S) , Ledbury (RCM), Kingsland (JHW), Leominster (KR), Dinedor (MW), Oaker wood (GAB, Llanveyno (JLF). R. Records come from Llandrindod and Glasbury (MP), Cefnllys, Newbridge (MP).

296 NUTHATCH. H. Nuthatches survived well, and come from all forested areas and throughout the year. Entries come from Great Doward, Brilley, Ledbury, Clifford, Welsh Newton, Kingsland, Castleton, Olchon, Holmes Marsh, Midsummer Hill, Almely, Aconbury, Putley, Titley, Sollers Hope. R.MP noted young birds at Builth, Llanfaredd, Pencerrig, Alpine bridge, adults at Glan Llyn, Dolyfan, Llandrindod, Penybont, LlanBwchLlyn, MP gives "Numbers well up". HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 395

298 TREE CREEPER. The birds were hithardby the winter. H. January, Sollers Hope, birds coming for fat (RF), January 8th, Hereford, in song (AJS), May 21st, June 17th, Hampton Park, noted (BEM), Aymestrey "A poor season" (FMW), July 17th, Fishpool, noted (MY), August 2nd, Almeley, two (AM), October, Luston (GAB). R. January 24th, Llandrindod, two (MP), March, Rhydfelin, noted (MP, June 16th, Elan (CO), June 17th, Glan Uyn, one (ROBG).

299 WREN. H. & R. All members agree that the wrens suffered grievously from the winter. Most records refer to absence of wrens.

SOO DIPPER. H. & R. The hardy dipper withstood the winter well. There is no lack of dippers in all usual stretches of water. On Monnow for instance, they are recorded at Crasswall, Llanveyno, Clodock, Llancillo, Goytre, Llangiwa, Pontrilas, Kentchurch (SJT and TRHO).

301 MISTLE THRUSH. H. January 3rd, Almeley, a pair defending a berried·holly tree against 6 redwings, January 5th, Almeley, five (VMJ), April, Brtlley, a pair nesting but raided by magpies (WL-S) , August 8th, Court meadows, 10/15 (FWM), September 22nd, Snedwood, c. 20 (ROBG). R. June 17th, Dolyfan, one carrying food (ROBG), November 25th, Craig-yr-allt-goch, two (ROBG).

302 FIELDFARE. H. & R. The latest stayer in spring was one at Eastnor on May 2nd (JLF). The first autumn arrivals were five at Marston Cross on October 31st (FWM). Bigger numbers were 2,000 at Shobdon, feeding on apples (TRA), 1,000 at Castleton (AJS) on November 11th, and 300 at Moelienydd on October28th (AJS).

303 SONG THRUSH. H. A bird apparently concussed was picked up in Hereford in March, bearing British Museum ring CH 30335. Itwas released and flew.

SOt REDWING. H. & R. Probably half the number of fieldfares. The latest stayers were a party at Newbridge on April 6th. Earliest to arrive was one atHamptonBishop on October 3rd (JLF). The only big numbers were c. 800 at Uandrindod on October 22nd and 200 at Uan Bwch Llyn on October 31st (MP). 396 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

307 RING OUZEL. H. April 22nd, Olchon, Two (IBE). R. April 15th, Glascwm, a male (FWM), 18th, Llanbedr, calling (MP), May 16th, Glan Llyn, two mobbing a buzzard (ROBG), June 9th, Elan,at least three singing (MP), May 29th, Painscastle, noted (JMB).

308 BLACKBIRD. H. January 14th, Holmes Marsh, actually singing (AJS), January 30th 30 at winter feed, two without tails.

311 WHEATEAR. H. March 15th, Castleton (AJS), and first departure July 29th at Holme Lacy (JLF). Miscellaneous sightings come from Castleton (AM), Hampton Bishop (JLF), Shobdon (TRA) , Olchon valley and Llancillo (SJT). R. Records from - Beacon Hill (CO), Bryngwyn (FWM), Elan (CO), Llanbedr, five pairs (MP), Rhosgoch, Craig-yr-allt and Glan Llyn (ROBG), Llandeilo (ROBG), Moelienydd and Beilibedw (JLF), Gilwern (MP). -,

317 STONECHAT. H. March 19th, Hampton Bishop, a female (JLF). R. April 10th, Moelienydd, a pair (MP), May 25th, a male (FWM) and three young, August 1st, a pair carrying food (MP).

318 WHlNCHAT. H. May, Olchon, three or four pairs (SJT), April 13th, Shobdon, noted (TRA), May 9th, Luston, three in garden (GAB), August 21st, Holme Lacy, one (JLF), September 5th, BalUngham, two (AM). R. May 6th, Bryngwyn, two (AM), 12th, Llanbedr, Llandeilo and Glascwm, 24 pairs (MP), Llandrindod, at least three pairs, 25th, Moelienydd, a pair (FWM), June 10th, Beacon Hill, one (CO), August 23rd, Cregrina, one (MP).

320 REDSTART. Redstarts seem to have made a partial and local recovery. H. There are more than 40 records. Aymestrey area, FWM notes "A good breeding season". In Olchon valley, August SJT writes "Frequent". From April to JUly records come from Easthampton (RM), Croft Ambrey (JHW), Yatton area, ten singing (FWM), Brilley (WL-S), Clodock and Lypole (TRHO), Castleton (AJS), Wapley (MB), Moccas (AM), Sollers Hope (RF). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 397

R. MP notes a very good year, 62 pairs located. Other entries run - Llanbedr, LlandeUo, Gilwern (MP), Llanvihangel, Glan Llyn, Howey, Dolyfan, Moelienydd, Rhayader, Penybont (ROBG), Bryngwyn, Penyclawdd (MP), Llan­ gunllo (TRA).

321 BLACK REDSTART. Elan valley, one (IBE), April 4th.

322 NIGHTINGALE. H. May, Ledbury, in song (per CWW), June, Dinedor, in song (per CWW), July 26th, Haugh Wood, two (MW), and noted at Shucknal (CO).

325 ROBIN.

327 GRASSHOPPER WARBLER. H. April 18th, Common Hill, noted (KAM), Sned wood, four singing (FWM), May 9th, Pokehouse wood, two singing (FWM), April 14th, Mansel Lacy, singing (JVF), 21st, Nupend in song (CWW), Haugh Wood, one (MW), June 11th, Kingsland, heard (RNO), July 22nd, Aymestrey, two (AM & FWM). R. July 31st, HundredHouse, singing (JVF).

333 REED WARBLER. H. May 8th, Shobdon, "arrived, some increase" (TRA), July 22nd, Mordiford Wye, one (MW). R. April/July, BuilthWye, singingin rank vegetation (MP).

337 SEDGE WARBLER. In low water, partly owingto drainage. H. May 10th, LlancUlo Monnow, one in song (TRHO), 15th, Letton, one (FWM), 25th, Lugg meadows, in song (AJS), August 27th, Ballingham, one (AM), September 11th, SymondsYatone (MW). R May 18th, Newbridge, a pair (MP), July 7th, Glasbury, at least four nests (MP).

343 BLACKCAP. H. & R. There are some 50 records. No less than 20 are of wintering birds (January to April). At Breinton (PGB) and Leominster (JHW) they were feeding on apples. Mostly they were in evidence at bird-tables, consuming fat and pea-nuts. From May to autumn records come from every quarter. On the Radnor side MP records 17 males. 398 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

M6 GARDEN WARBLER. H. May to June 6th, noted by JHW at Croft, Kingsland and Oaker wood, May 12th, Whitney and Nupend, in song (JLF), Aymestrey, noted (FWM), June 13th, Fownhope and Haugh Wood, noted (CWW), 17th, HamptonPark, singing (BEM). Aymestrey area "common" (FWM), July 26th, Haugh Wood, "quite common" (MW), October 2nd, Aconbury, one (MW). R. May 9th, Llandrindod, common (MP) with 43 singing males recorded; June, Cefnllys, Doldowlod, Penybont, Dolyfan, noted (ROBG), July 8th, Dolfan and Neuadd, noted (ROBG), August 12th, Llanbister, one (ROBG), August 28th, Glasbury, one (MP).

347 WmTETHROAT. MB records "up on last year" and AJS "a slight increase". Probably the species is keeping up its reduced numbers. H. Sightings come from Bredwardine (JLF), Madley (TRHO), Brilley (WL-S) , Kingsland, Yarpole, Broomy Hill, Morimer's Cross (JHW), Aymestrey (FWM), Fawley (CO), Ballingham, Ca§tleton, Aconbury (AM), Hampton Bishop (JLF), Fownhope (CWW), Wapley (MB), Shobdon (AJS), Haugh Wood (BEM), Dinedor and Nupend (MW) and Luston (GAB). R. There are records from Dolyfan, Rhayader, Penybont (ROBG), Llanyre, Rhosgoch, Gwynydd, Disserth, Llanel­ wedd, twelve pairs located (MP), Llan Bwch Llyn, Glasbury (MP).

348 LESSER WffiTETHROAT. H. May 4th, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF), 9th, Titley, noted (JMB), Common Hill, noted (RAM), June 6th, Fawley, noted (CO), July 4th, Fownhope (CWW), June 21st, LyonshallandHolmes Marsh (AJS), July 9th, Hereford (MP), September1st, Castleton (AM).

R. May 12th, Ffynnon andBuiltharea (MP).

354 WILLOW WARBLER. H. & R. Numbers have kept up. The bird is widely reported in both counties. First arrival was on April 10th at Hampton Bishop (JLF). Last to go was one at Trigate bridge, September 13th (MW). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 399

356 CHlFFCHAFF. H. & R. Numbers seem to be a little down, but records come from all quarters and include a winter record, January 31st, Hereford Wye (FB & PGB), also March 1statHereford (AM). In the Radnor sites MP records 12 singing males, but "rather uncommon" whereas at Symonds YatMPW notes''much more numerous".

357 WOOD WARBLER. H. April, Ledbury, in song (DEMB), also at Aymestry (FWM) and Aconbury (MW). May 8th, Mansel Lacy, one, and two at Eardisley (JLF). May 11th, Sink Green one (JVF), 14th Lea Wood and Paget's Wood (CWW), 18th, Holywell dingle, several (CWW), 27th, Haugh Wood, several (JLF). R.May 14th, Cefnllys, Nueadd, Glan Llyn, Llandrindod (ROBG), On various sites MP traced 31 singingmales.

364 GOLDCREST. Perhaps the hardest hit species of all by the winter. H. Survivors were traced at Aymestrey, "only two heard in %, of a mile" (FWM), Madley, none traced, but singing I:\-t Llancillo (TRHO). Ledbury, one at the table (DEMB), Yatton Hill, 19 in December (FWM), Broomy Hill, still present (WMG). R January 21st, Llandrindod and Cefnllys, calling (MP). In Radnor haunts, July/October, MP notes "Widespread in conifers", and April 21st, at Garreg ddu, HTR has the encouraging entry "pleasingly plentiful". November 21st, Builtharea, two (ROBG).

366 SPOTTED FLYCATCHER. The bird has declined recently, records are widespread. H. May 12th, Easthampton, bred (TRA), Aymestrey, "A good season" (FWM). Other records run - Kingsland (JHW), Croft (FWM), Leominster (KR), Castleton, numerous (AM), Ballingham (AM & FWM), Welsh Newton (FMP), Clodock six pairs (SJT), Brilley (WL-S), Moccas (AM), Kingsland (JHW), Dinedor (MW), Hereford (WMG).

R. Spring and summer records come from Howey, Neuadd, Cefnllys (ROBG), Moelienydd (ROBG). MP remarks "Widespreadand common" , 25 pairs located. 400 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

368 PIED FLYCATCHER. H. April 11th, Foy, one (FRF), 13th, Moccas, one (AM), May 5th, Aymestrey, a male (FWM), 9th, Croft Ambrey, one (JHW), 11th, Eywood (RLV), July 7th, Clodock and Olchon valley, noted (SJT) July, a pair sojourning in Swinmoor orchard and thought to have bred (TRHO). R. April 23rd, Llandrindod area, widespread and fairly common (MP), May 6th, Llangunllo, a male (TRA), 16th, Cefnllys, two and Caban Coch and Dolymynach, one (ROBG), July 7th, Howey, and at Glan Llyn one carrying food (ROBG), June 16th, Elan, eight counted (CO).

371 DUNNOCK. "Survivedbetter than most" (TRHO).

372 [ALPINE ACCENTOR. (H. Brilley one well viewed (WL-S) ) (A first record, to be sent to the Rarities Committee - Edll

363 MEADOW PIPIT. H. & R. Flourishing - e.g. "Abundant" (ROBG), "Verycommon" (AM) "At Glasbury more than 50" (AJS), The Begwms, c.1oo (MP), and the records come from both counties.

376 TREE PIPIT. H. April 15th, Stansbatch, noted (JMB), Haugh wood, three (JLF), May 9th, Croft Ambrey, noted (JHW), 11th Eywood, noted (RLV), July 2nd, st. Wulfstans, noted (FMP), 22ndAymestrey, several (FWM), August 28th, Holmes Marsh, passage noted (AJS). R. April 20th, Radnor sites, 54 singing males located (MP), May 14thCefnllys, three, and Dolymynach, one (ROBG) and five at Glan Llyn, July 3rd, Llyn Hilyn, in song (AJS), September 7th, Newbridge, ten (MP).

380 PIED WAGTAH... They stood the winter well for an insect eater. H. & R. Bigger numbers seen are - January 10th, Hereford Wye, c. 230,(AJS) near sewage works, September 19th, Builtharea, c. 90 (MP), October 19th, Llandrindod, 50 (MP). The birds are scattered thinly over the whole area. In hard weather they were seen to come to bird-tables.

381 GREY WAGTAH... H. & R. Winter affected their numbers, but many survived. FWM records "agood breeding season". Never far from water they bred on most of their usual stretches. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 401

382 YELLOW WAGTAIL. H. More records than of late years. A number returned to previous sites. Records are - April 11th, Easthampton, one (TRA), Hereford Wye seven birds (AJS), 13th, Holme Lacy, two (JLF), May 19th, Llancillo, noted (TRHO), May 13th, Dinedor, four, and on September 13th noted at Trigate, Hoarwithy, Holme Lacy (MW), June 17th, Leintwardine, three (JLF), July 9th, Kingsland, a family (MP), June 6th, Fawley, a pair (CO), August, Ballingham to Castleton, "in good numbers" (AM), August 28th, Holmes Marsh, noted (AJS). R. April 18th, Glasbury - , 20 (MP), July 7th, Glasbury, 28 inclUding four pairs feeding young (MP), September 6th, Llandrindod, one (MP).

389 STARLING. R. August 12th, Llyn Hilyn, c. 2,000 (AM).

391 HAWFINCH. H. January 24th, Bredwardine, one at bird table (BCA), February, a pair feeding on apples (DEMB), February, Common Hill, one, and three on March 8th (RAM), April 22nd, Almeley Wooton, a male (VMJ), October 18th, Criftin Ford, two, and one at Dinedor, November 28th (MW).

392 GREENFINCH. H. January 6th, Stockley Cross, c. 300 with other finches (JMB, AJS, FWM), April 24th, Olchon, 20 (SJT), July 6th, Brilley, young fed (WL-S). R. February 18th, Glasbury, c.1oo (AJS).

393 GOLDFINCH. H. & R. Fourishing, vide - January 15th, Hampton Bishop, c. 100 (JLF), Lugg meadows, 20 on February 20th (CJR), May - June, Kingsland, "much in evidence" (JHW), March 2nd, Sandiacre, 25 (FWM), April 25th, Castleton, 30 (AM), Radnor sites "fairly common" (MP), August 28th, Glasbury, 20, and 30 on October 30th at Builth, October 14th, Castleton, 30 (AJS).

394 SISKIN. H. January 8th, Hampton Bishop, c. 50 (JLF), February 21st, Peterchurch, four (AJS), March 3rd, Symonds Yat, c. 80 (SJT), 4th, Eyvvood, a large party (RLV), April3rd, Burfa, four (MP), August 15th, Sned wood, seven, and c. 100 on 24th (FWM), November 10th, Yatton, 30, and 100 on 24th, December 31st, Hampton Bishop, five (JLF). 402 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

R. January 21st, Glasbury, 27 with other species (MP), October 6th, Dolymynach, two (ROBG), November 27th, and 100 on December27th (FWM).

395 LINNET. H. January 6th, Stockley Cross, c. 1,000 (JMB, AJS, FWM), April 14th, Aymestrey, arrived (FWM), August 25th, Castleton, 34 (AM), September4th, Sellack, c. 60 (MW), October 1st, Aymestrey, c. 50 (FWM). R. January 21st, Glasbury, nine (MP), and "an influx in mid-April", April 6th, Builth, first sighting (JLF), May 7th, Bryngwyn, 100 (AM), August 12th, Moelienydd, 30 (ROBG), Radnor sites, "widely spread and largest flock 50 on September 25th" (MP), December 8th, Rhosgoch, c. 200 (AM).

398 TWITE. H. February, Great Doward, one well viewed in garden (MPW).

6 397 REDPOLL. H. February 13th, Hereford Wye, one (AJS), March 7th, Holme Lacy, twelve (JLF), 13th, Hereford Wye, 10/20 (FB & PGB), April 20th, Yatton, five (FWM), 26th, Hampton Park, two parties (BEM), May 8th, Mansel Lacy, (JLF), August 20th, Dinedor, 10 (MW), 28th, Holmes Marsh, one (AJS), November 6th, Lugg meadows, a small party (AJS), November 17th, Common Hill, 20 (KAM), December 16th, Castleton, two, (AJS), Shobdon, "present" (TRA). / R. January-February, Llandrindod., five, and April 5th, Newbridge, 18 (MP), May 12th, Glasbury, 30, Llandrindod., six pairs, Rhosgoch, noted, Rhydfelin, a male, (MP), July 7th, Llandrindod, a family party (MP), October 2nd, Discoed, twelve, December 4th, BrynThomas, 14 (MP).

401 BULLFINCH. H. & R. Fleetingand scattered, but in average numbers. At Sollers Hope RF gives''frequent in June/July", in theRadnor sites MP notes "fairlywidespread".

404 CROSSBILL. H. July 20th, Sned wood, 20, and 50 on August 18th, and 30 on November 24th (FWM), November 3rd, Mary Knoll, 16/20 (DGB), 4th, Wigmore, heard and six seen, December 16th, Sned wood, c. 40 (S. Dettmar), At Sollers Hope RF heard them singinginFebruary. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 403

407 CHAFFINCH. H. & R. The commonest finch. Big gatherings include - January 6th, Stockley Cross, c.6oo (JMB et aI.) and February 17th, Glasbury, 200 (MP).

408 BRAMBLING. H. & R. Records are very numerous. The only big gatherings were 100 birds at Stockley Cross on January 6th (JMB, FNM, AJS) and 100 in a mixed flock at Hereford (CWW). Other sightings come from Bryngwyn (AM & FWM), Tillington (RDJ), Hereford (CWW), Sandiacre (FWM), Marden (SJT), Kings Caple (KAM), Kington (JMB), Shobdon (TRA), Yatton (FWM), Fownhope (MW), Llanyre (MP), LlynHilyn (MP), and Glasbury (AJS).

409 YELLOW HAMMER. H. They survived the winter fairly well and are sprinkled over the county wherever hedges are left. R. February 18th, Glasbury, c.1oo (AJS).

410 CORN BUNTING. H. March 5th, Monkland, one in a pheasant cage (TRA), April 26th, Lugg Meadows, one in song and c. ten in flight, July 9th, Kings Acre, three (MP), 26th, Ballingham, singing (AM).

421 REED BUNTING. H. More than average numbers are recorded, covering all seasons. Records are - Sandiacre (FWM) , Fownhope (AM), Hereford (AJS), Castleton (AJS), ManselGamage (AAS) , Ballingham (AM), Hampton Bishop (MW), TRA notes "very vociferous this spring".

424 HOUSE SPARROW. H. February 23rd, Brilley, "Vast flock" (ML-S) mixing with other species.

425 TREE SPARROW. H. January 19th, Brilley, noted (WL-S), May 15th, Letton, noted (FWM) , July 26th, Ballingham (AM), September 26th, Luston, noted, October 13th, Dinedor, three (MW), October 28th, Sandiacre, six (FWM), December 8th, Holmes Marsh, noted (AJS). R. February 17th, Glasbury, c. 40 (MP), July 7th, Builth, one (ROBG), December 3rd, Llandrindod, five with bramblings (MP). 404 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979

CONTRmUTORS TO CLASSIFIED NOTES 1978 & 1979

B. C. Allen H.M.Jones T. R. Ammonds B. M. Kiddle D. J. Ashley Miss W. Lindsay-Scott Mrs. M. Beach A.Marchant Mrs. D. E. B. Bennett F. W. Marston Dr. D. G. Boddington K.A.Mason Mrs. G. A. Bottoms Dr. B. E. Miles F. H. Bradley Dr. C. D. T. Minton Mr. and Mrs. P. G. Bradley R. Morley Mrs. J. M. Bromley A. R. Mountford B. Butcher Dr. R. N. Ovenden D.Clegg T.R.H.Owen S. Dettmar C. J. Parry I. B. Evans M.F.Peers J.L.Fox C. J. Randolph Mrs. J. V. Fox Mrs. C. J. Raper Mrs. F. R. Francis C. W. Sheldrake A. G. Fyshe A. J. Smith Mr. and Mrs. P. G. Gardner J. J. Smith R. O. B. Garnett Mrs. S. J. Tyler Miss W. M. Gibson R. L. Vernon E. Guest Dr. C. W. Walker A. Hesten J.H. Ward Mrs. V M. Jenkins D. Washington Miss R. Jenkinson M. P. Watkins M. Jones Dr. W. H. D. Wince HEREFORDSIDRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1979 405

REPORT EXCHANGES

Shetland Bird Club Bristol Naturalists' Society Gloucestershire Naturalists' Society West Naturalists' Trust Wiltshire Ornithological Society

ASSOCIATIONS TO WHICH THE CLUB IS AFFILIATED

Herefordshire and Radnorshire Nature Trust BritishTrust for Ornithology Council for Nature British Naturalists' Association Woolhope Society West Midlands Bird Club Royal Society for the Protection of Birds 406 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICALCLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEARENDED 30th NOVEMBER, 19'79 1978 19'79 Income.· 14 Sale of Publications 14 21 Donations 29 98 BuildingSociety Interest 122 1!!! Subscriptions J!!!2.. .§§! ...m. Deduct. Expenditure.­ 131 Printingand Stationery 139 340 Annual Report 458 175 Postage and Telephones 183 100 MeetingExpenses 138 24 Affiliation Subscriptions 31 17 Cost of Publications 10 14 Insurances 14 16 Corporation Tax onBuildingSociety Interest 13 40 Depreciatiol1ofDuplicatingMachine 40 11 Donation - BardseyIsland 21 Less. Received ...ll.

868 1,036 (34) Deficit for the year (211) ~ Surplus at1stDecember1978 ...... §!!! 808 General Fundsat 30th November 1979 597 1,100 Add. Special Fund 1,100 £1,908 AccumulatedFundsat30th November 1979 ~ AccumulatedFundsat 30thNovember 1979 represented by.- 1,648 Depositwith Abbey NationalBuildingSociety 1,519 40 CashatBank, less 1980 subscription received inadvance 8 140 Stock of Publications, at cost 130 ~ DuplicatingMachine, at cost £162, less depreciation £122 40 £1,908 £1,697

I. T. STONE Hon. Treasurer I have audited the above Accounts and in my opinion they show atrue and fair view of the Deficit for the year ended 30th November, 1979 and of the Club's assets at 30th November, 1979. T.Davies CharteredAccountant