The Birds of Sta ordshire, , and the West 2018

1

The Birds of , Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the 2018

Annual Report 85

Editor

D.W. Emley BEM

Published by

West Midland Bird Club

2020

1 Published by West Midland Bird Club

© West Midland Bird Club

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

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

Web site: http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk/

ISSN 0963-312X

Printed by Swallowtail Print, Drayton Industrial Park, Taverham Road Drayton, Norwich, NR8 6RL www.swallowtailprint.co.uk

CBP002269

2 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands

2018

Annual Report 85

Contents

4 Editorial 5 Submission of Records 6 Birds and Weather

14 Systematic List 222 Ringing Report 241 County Lists

254 A winter roost of Red Kite Milvus milvus in south Warwickshire 256 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Mere: seasonal and age distributions and correlations with a nearby breeding colony

266 Gazetteer 273 Contributors 278 Index of Species

Front Cover Photograph: Black-necked Grebe, Draycote, Claire Workman

3 Editorial

I would like to start by welcoming Pete Forbes as the new County Recorder for West Midlands and wish him well in his position. At the same time, we extend our thanks and appreciation to Kevin Clements for his tenure of this post which he has held since 2004.

In this Report we have two super articles that really show what the Club members can do. One is a report of a Red Kite winter roost in south Warwickshire – who would have envisaged such a thing not that long ago – and the other a study of Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere.

From January 2018 the British Ornithological Union adopted the IOC World Bird List (10.1). As we follow the BOU, there are some taxonomic changes in the report, notably that the two subspecies of Bean Goose are now raised to species status. This means that while there were no new species in the Region, Worcestershire has gained one by dint of Taiga Bean Goose being raised to species level.

Acknowledgements I would like to thank all those who helped with this year’s report. I am especially grateful to all those who contributed records, especially those sending in valuable census data; to Steve Atkinson, Ian Bollen, Mark Clarke, Theo de Clermont, Alan Dean, Steve Edwards, Dave Emley, Bob Hazell, Phil Jones, John Judge, Hughie King, Derek Lees, Peter , Graham Mant, John Oates, Nick Pomiankowski, Richard Rafe, Steve Seal, Mark Sutton, Nigel Talbot, Kevin Wardlaw, Richard Walker, Andy Warr and Claire Workman for making their work available; and above all to the County Recorders and their teams:

Warwickshire: Report Writers: Chris Hill and Steve Haynes with thanks to Jonathan Bowley and Tim Marlow. Worcestershire: Report Writers: Steven Payne, Steve Haynes, Gavin Peplow, Craig Reed, Andy Warr. Rarities Committee – Terry Hinett, Gavin Peplow, Rob Prudden, Andy Warr. Staffordshire: Report Writer: Nick Pomiankowski; Rarities Committee: Steve Nuttall, Bernard Smith, Mark Sutton, Steve Turner; Site Report Compilers: Peter Betts, Mike Boote, Ian Grant, Pete Jordan, Steve Nuttall, Russell Toon; Data Input; NDP, Holly Sissons, Matthew Sissons. West Midlands: Report Writer: Peter Forbes, who would like to thank Nick Barlow and David Saunders for their assistance and Steve Haynes for his advice.

Once again, we are lucky to have 100 illustrations by 24 members making a valuable contribution to the Report, our thanks go to them and we are sorry that we cannot use all that were sent in. Thanks also go to Claire Workman for her cover photograph of Black-necked Grebe and to Andy Lawrence for preparing the cover.

Finally, I would like to thank Mike Dawson and Eng-Li Green of Swallowtail Print, Jim Winsper and my wife Sue, for their support and help during the compilation of this report.

David Emley [email protected]

4 Submission of Records

All contributors are asked to follow the guidelines set out in the booklet A Checklist of the Birds of the Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands and Guide to Status and Record Submission.

All records should be sent to the relevant County Recorder as soon as possible after observation. Postings on Social Media do not constitute a record submission. Failure to inform the relevant County Recorder could result in the sighting going unnoticed and therefore being lost.

Concise, though adequate, field descriptions (including how the species was identified, the circumstances of the sighting and the observer’s experience of the species) should accompany records of all species – marked as A in the Details column of the checklist. In addition, descriptions are required for all out-of-season migrants, unusual hybrids and scarce sub-species, including Scandinavian Rock Pipit, Blue-headed and other flava race wagtails, White Wagtail (autumn only), Black-bellied Dipper, Greenland Wheatear and Chiffchaff races. The lack of an acceptable description may lead to records being rejected.

An up-to-date list of species requiring a description can be found on the Club’s website.

Records should be sent to the appropriate County Recorder. Postal addresses can be found on the Club’s Website or in the Newsletter:

Warwickshire Chris Hill [email protected]

Worcestershire Steven Payne [email protected]

Staffordshire Nick Pomiankowski [email protected]

West Midlands Pete Forbes [email protected]

Records can be sent electronically as Excel, Word, CSV or RTF files. Another alternative that is proving very popular and which members are encouraged to use if possible, is the BTO’s BirdTrack website http://www.bto.org.uk/birdtrack/. Data entered here can be accessed, with permission, by the County Recorder.

5 Irrespective of the inclusion of some notable birds in our Region, the annual total of 233 species in 2018 is down on the previous two years cf. 237 in 2017 and 236 in 2016.

The annual variation in the number of species occurring in our Region can be nothing more than coincidental over this short period of time but we can derive much more from the numbers present and the species themselves over an extended period. In this year’s section, storks to egrets, the inclusion of: White Stork, Glossy Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Eurasian Bittern, Cattle Egret, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Great White Egret and Little Egret is indicative of our changing regional avifauna. This is further highlighted when compared to our report No. 35 for the year 1968 when the same section reported Heron and Bittern (as they were then named). When giving consideration to the aforementioned occurrences in this report, it offers proof that the birds involved are using a suitable regional habitat and, equally important, they are thriving in a suitable climate that has changed considerably over the past 50 years.

This selection of species represents birds that are regarded as event species in terms of their significance at regional or county level. A first county record for Worcestershire arrived in the form of a White-fronted Goose of the race Anser albifrons flavirostris (Greenland White- fronted Goose). Elsewhere, the breeding range of Red Kite continues to expand with a pair confirmed as successfully raising young for the first time in the West Midlands. Stone-curlewA found in Warwickshire is just the second record for this species in this named county during a 165-year period. Finally, a Dusky Warbler was a long awaited first record for this species in Warwickshire.

Many extreme weather events such as storms with frequent wind speeds in excess of gale force 8 (39-46 mph - Beaufort Scale), heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall with its associated flooding have become more commonplace and intense in the British Isles as a result of global warming. Information that further highlights the increasing warming process is provided by the Met Office’s ‘State of the UK Climate report for 2018’.

Fig. 1 shows that the ten hottest years in the UK since 1884 have all happened in the last 17 years. Adapting to this transformation of the worlds climatic conditions will inevitably bring

6 Fig. 1 Beginning with the hottest, the top ten warmest years in sequence are: 2014, 2006, 2011, 2007, 2017, 2003, 2018, 2004, 2002 and 2005. about a change in habits to a great many of Earth’s life forms, especially those that have evolved to thrive in a specific climate or adopted a migration strategy that provides a balanced life.

Annual weather assessment 2018 The following represents an assessment of the weather experienced across the UK during 2018 and how it compares with the 1981 to 2010 average.

2018 was warmer than average for the UK, although not as warm as 2017. May, June, July and December were all much warmer than average. It was also a relatively dry year, particularly across the north of the UK, with June a very dry month in the south. This was a very sunny year, particularly May, June and July. Notable extreme events during the year included a spell of severe winter weather in late February and early March. The Met Office issued two Red Warnings, and this was the most significant spell of snow and low temperatures for the UK since 2010. High pressure dominated the summer – the warmest for the UK since 2006, the driest since 2003 and the sunniest since 1995. Some rain gauges in southern recorded more than 50 consecutive dry days and temperatures exceeded 30 °C fairly widely on 15 days during the period June to early August. Nine named storms affected the UK during 2018. Storm Ali in mid-September brought very strong winds to the north and was one of the most notable early autumn storms of recent decades. Storm Callum in mid-October brought persistent heavy rain to western areas, especially south Wales.

• The provisional UK mean temperature for 2018 was 9.5 °C, which is 0.6 °C above the 1981- 2010 long-term average, ranking as the seventh warmest year in the historical UK series from 1910. All top-ten warmest years in this series have occurred this century. Summer 2018 was equal-warmest in the UK series, with 1976, 2003 and 2006. • The provisional UK rainfall total for 2018 was 1064 mm, which is 92% of the 1981-2010 average, making this a dry year overall although not exceptionally so. However, parts of northern Scotland received only 75% of average rainfall. Southern England recorded its driest June since 1925.

7 • The provisional UK sunshine total for 2018 was 1581 hours, which is 115% of the 1981- 2010 average and making this the second sunniest year for the UK in a series from 1929, with only 2003 sunnier. May was also the sunniest on record for the UK.

Monthly Weather Summaries To offer a wider understanding of how our Region, and the birds of our Region, can be affected by weather, the following monthly weather summaries are an overview of the entire UK. These weather summaries are an adaptation of information supplied by, and in agreement, with the Met Office.

The averaging period used for the following assessment was 1981-2010.

The first few days in January were influenced by the arrival and passage of Storm Eleanor on 2nd and 3rd with strong winds gusting to 75 mph affecting most areas. Mild conditions, associated with the storm, were then replaced with cold air as high pressure took over until mid- month. The second half of the month was influenced by a westerly air flow that brought mostly mild conditions in the south but northern England and Scotland remained cold with some snow at times. The second named storm for the month, Georgina, affected the Midlands southwards on the 24th with heavy rain initially, followed by winds gusting to 64 mph.The monthly mean temperature was 4.1 °C, which is 0.4 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average and most parts of the UK had near or above average rainfall. It came as little surprise that after last year’s remarkable autumn influx of continental Hawfinches, birds remained widespread and in good numbers across the Region. Throughout the month the sky above Staffordshire was dominated by the generally north-westerly movement of Pink-footed Geese with a great many skeins moving through the county. The continuing decline in wintering Smew numbers was again evident with a single report of a bird at Middleton Lakes on 7th. Also, on 7th a Bewick’s Swan was a notable visitor to Marsh Lane NR. The strong westerly air flow and the occurrence of storm Georgina, probably influenced the arrival of the rare North American vagrant Green-winged Teal at Radford Meadows on 24th and, while on a resident theme, a winter roost of Red Kites in south Warwickshire peaked at around 80 birds on 26th.

February began unsettled and colder than average. The weather settled down for a while around mid-month becoming a little warmer but then turning colder again toward the end of the month in an easterly air flow. The month ended cold and wintry with widespread snowfall as the media dubbed ‘Beast from the East’ set in on 27th. The UK mean temperature was 2.4 °C, which is 1.3 °C below the 1981-2010 long-term average. This was colder than February 2013 but not as cold as February 2010. Whooper Swan movement was a feature of the first week with 30 over Trentham Gardens on 4th followed by 10 over Coton Lakes on 5th. A Kumlien’s Gull in Staffordshire on 6th and 7th was an excellent find while a Red-necked Grebe was a welcome visitor to Draycote on 16th. Two Cattle Egrets roosted on occasion at Clay Mills while at Brandon, a female Marsh Harrier was observed on18th and 19th. As the cold easterly regime intensified, some impressive finch flocks could be found where food was plentiful, up to 250Brambling gathered at Wormleighton and individual Common Redpoll were present at two locations in the West Midlands.

It was an exceptionally cold start to March with a dominant easterly air flow bringing widespread snow and freezing temperatures to many parts of the UK with daytime temperatures remaining below freezing. After turning milder around mid-month, cold weather and snow returned for a brief spell before milder, unsettled weather returned for the rest of the month but it turned

8 cold and unsettled again as the month ended. The provisional UK mean temperature was 3.8 °C, which is 1.6 °C below the 1981-2010 long-term average. The Midlands had over twice the normal monthly amount of rainfall. Severe winter conditions brought about the arrival of a Red Knot to on 1st. As conditions eased, a general early spring movement commenced with a Northern Goshawk through Belvide Res on 6th followed by a Slavonian Grebe at Arrow Lake on 8th and a Black- necked Grebe at Westwood Pool also on 8th. During early spring-like conditions around mid-month there was an exceptionally strong passage of Kittiwake throughout the Region. Having held off their northerly movement due to the earlier winter conditions, Sand Martin and Northern Wheatear duly arrived. Spring passage Black Redstarts were found at different locations in Staffordshire on 23rd and 25th while Osprey put in appearances in Warwickshire and Worcestershire toward the month’s end.

April started off as the previous month ended with cold wet weather dominating. It became generally less cold as the month progressed and there was a brief but very marked hot spell from the 18th to the 21st which produced the highest temperatures in April since 1949. Cooler, unsettled weather returned from the 22nd, with moderate rainfall at times over England and Wales.The provisional UK mean temperature was 8.4 °C, which is 1.0 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average. A strong passage of Little Gulls commenced during the first week and these were joined with passage Sandwich, Common and Arctic Terns during the same period. Early arriving Cuckoos put in appearances in favourable weather at Fig. 2 British Isles, 28th June 2018 and Woods Farm on 13th while a A predominantly cloud free image of the British Isles Glossy Ibis was a special find at Upton on a day when all four UK countries and the Republic of Ireland recorded temperatures above 30 degrees Warren on the same day. In changeable Celsius: Porthmadog (Wales) 33 °C, Glasgow and deteriorating conditions, a Red- (Scotland) 31.9 °C, Keswick (England) 30.6 °C, rumped Swallow was found at Belvide Derrylin and Thomastown (Northern Ireland) 30.5 °C Res on 29th and with some relief to and Shannon Airport (Republic of Ireland) 32 °C. all conservationists the first returning Image from the NERC satellite receiving station, Turtle Dove arrived in Worcestershire Dundee University. on 30th.

At the start of May, the UK was in an unsettled westerly regime, but it soon turned much warmer and, for most places, sunnier, giving the warmest early-May Bank Holiday since the holiday was introduced in 1978. After a brief spell of cooler weather the second half of the month was dominated by high pressure with warm, sunny conditions returning until the last week when thunderstorms and longer spells of rain broke out increasingly widely, especially in central and southern areas. The provisional UK mean temperature was 12.1 °C, which is 1.7 °C

9 above the 1981-2010 long-term average, making it provisionally the equal second warmest May in a series from 1910. Mean maximum temperatures were between 2 and 3 °C above average in most areas, while mean minimum temperatures were mostly about 1 °C above average. The mean maximum temperature for the UK as a whole was the highest in a series from 1910. The month began in excellent fashion with a Purple Heron at Brandon on 4th followed by a Honey-buzzard at Whitley Court on 7th. A steady passage of Black Terns was noted across the region as high pressure took over, producing fine sunny conditions. A total of 500 Common Swifts gathered at Draycote on 10th and European Nightjar returned to Cannock Chase on 16th. The month closed in the fashion that it began with a White-rumped Sandpiper at Middleton Lakes on 25th, a Montagu’s Harrier moving over Downs Banks on 29th and a Rose-coloured Starling in Rugby on 31st.

June began settled and increasingly warm with temperatures rising well above average, especially so by day, while nights were often relatively cool. After an unsettled spell during mid-month with heavy rain at times and strong winds associated with Storm Hector, most areas became sunny and warm with little rainfall and temperatures in many parts exceeding 30 °C during the last week.The provisional UK mean temperature was 14.8 °C, which is 1.8 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average, making it provisionally the third warmest June in a series from 1910. A Eurasian Spoonbill visited Ladywalk NR on 4th, relocating to nearby Middleton Lakes on 6th and accompanying the summering Little Egrets there. After a successful breeding period at Ladywalk NR, a large gathering of Goosander ducklings became a feature. A Black Redstart was heard singing in City Centre on 15th, two Red-necked Phalaropes visited Clifton Pits on 17th and there was an excellent find of an immatureWhite-winged Black Tern at Blithfield Res on 22nd.

High pressure dominated during the first half of July with hot, dry and sunny conditions over a large majority of the country. The weather was a little less settled in the second half of the month, particularly in the north and west, but rainfall amounts remained small in many parts of the country until the last few days. The hottest spell of the month was between the 23rd and 26th, followed by a thundery breakdown. The provisional UK mean temperature was 17.3 °C, which is 2.2 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average, making it provisionally the joint second warmest July (alongside 1983, after 2006) in a series from 1910. Mean maximum temperatures were over 4 °C above average in many central and southern parts of England. This is traditionally the month when the return passage of wading birds gets truly underway and steadily progresses. Some notable movements are: Scattered sightings of Ruffs were reported from all four counties during the first week while a flock of 50 Black-tailed Godwits visited Belvide Res on 5th. A Pectoral Sandpiper stopped off at Brandon on 6th and an exceptional flock of 56 Whimbrels moved over Clifton Pits on 28th, while both Curlew Sandpiper and Wood Sandpiper put in end of month appearances in Warwickshire and Staffordshire respectively. Elsewhere, a White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba arrived on the unusual date of 24th in Worcestershire and a Spotted Crake visited on 27th.

The first week of August continued with the warm and settled theme of the previous two months, especially in southern areas, but after that conditions were more unsettled and closer to average. There was cooler weather at times during the second half of the month, particularly in the north and west, and rainfall amounts were more significant. The hottest spell of the month was between the 2nd and 7th. The last few days were the most unsettled and the coolest part of the month. The provisional UK mean temperature was 15.3 °C, which is 0.3 °C above the 1981- 2010 long-term average. Many wetland sites held a variety of wading species as return passage continued throughout the region. After the hot, dry conditions of previous months, water levels at reservoirs, lakes

10 and pools were low, presenting an ideal shoreline habitat. Three Sanderlings were present at Draycote on 10th and five Bar-tailed Godwits visited Knypersley the following day. A return passage movement of Black Terns was noted across the region while gatherings of local Common Swifts, presumably ‘fuelling up’, signalled their southbound departure, most having gone from the Region by mid-month. A Wryneck was an excellent find at Nafford on 26th.

September began fine and warm over southern areas, but less settled further north. Unsettled weather then soon became prevalent over the whole country. This continued for most of the month, and there was a particularly windy spell with a succession of active depressions after mid-month. However, the last week of the month was more anticyclonic, with settled autumnal weather especially towards the south. The provisional UK mean temperature was 12.4 °C, which is 0.2 °C below the 1981-2010 long-term average. September was a mixed month, with the arrival of the first two named storms of the 2018/19 season, Storm Ali on the 19th produced the years strongest winds with gusts to 91mph in County Down, Northern Ireland, and Storm Bronagh on 20th to 21st, both producing a spell of very windy weather. After a fine start to the month the summer weather finally broke down, presenting an autumnal feel across the Region. A Cattle Egret at Belvide Res on 2nd saw the commencement of a run of records for this species and Great White Egret was establishing its autumn presence in all four counties. Fig. 3 Storm Callum 12th October 2018 Two Spotted Redshanks were an Storm Callum centred over the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Scotland. Image from the NERC satellite excellent record at Earlswood Lakes receiving station, Dundee University. on 5th while Merlin was setting up its lowland autumn and winter residence in the Region. The discovery of two Wrynecks at Bittell Res on 7th was exceptional. The arrival of the first named storms of the autumn took place when Ali and Bronagh occurred in succession from 19th to 21st. Strong winds were a feature of both storms and these probably influenced the movement of Northern Gannets through Draycote and Barton Gate on 24th. The same weather brought about a remarkable occurrence of Grey Phalaropes in all four counties with birds arriving immediately before, during and immediately after the storms with an amazing three birds arriving at GP on 21st. Some predictability returned with a strong movement of Pink-footed Geese heading south over Staffordshire from 23rd onward and there was a scattering of return passage Garganeys throughout.

October began with high pressure over the south, but a westerly flow affected central and northern areas. The second week was unseasonably warm due to southerly winds, but Storm

11 Callum brought wet and windy weather to most parts on the 12th. After a relatively settled spell with high pressure often close to the south, a northerly outbreak on the 26th and 27th resulted in a very cold end to the month, with wintry showers on high ground and locally to low levels on the 27th.The provisional UK mean temperature was 9.6 °C, which is 0.1 °C above the 1981- 2010 long-term average. As the month progressed, winter thrushes were becoming established in the Region. Typically, Rock Pipit featured during this month with six birds at Draycote on 16th while on the following day two Bearded Tits were located at Napton Res. A Shore Lark was an excellent find on the Malvern Hills on 19th. On 21st a Snow Bunting put in an appearance at Upton Warren and a Lapland Bunting was present at Blithfield Res in wintry conditions on 27th. Also, on 27th, an impressive six Common Redpolls were feeding with Lesser Redpolls on the Malvern Hills and the West Midland’s month closed nicely with Yellow-browed Warblers at Park Lime Pits on 26th and on 31st.

November began with relatively cold, quiet weather, but it soon turned mild with a predominance of southerly winds, and it was also wet in most parts of the country. A large high over Scandinavia brought a settled spell to most of the country around mid-month but with variable amounts of cloud. After a brief cold spell, it turned very mild, wet and windy in all parts of the country from the 27th onwards. The provisional UK mean temperature was 7.3 °C, which is 1.1 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average. The month got off to a good start with a Snow Bunting over Draycote on 1st, a Great Grey Shrike on Cannock Chase on 2nd and four Cattle Egrets arriving at Belvide Res on 4th. Also, on 4th, an excellent count of 125 Yellowhammers was made at Dairy Farm. The European Golden Plover flock at peaked at 270 birds on 14th while in much less traditional style a Hoopoe arrived in on 15th. An American Wigeon returned to its favoured wintering grounds in Worcestershire on 19th and two Bewick’s Swans arrived at Brandon on 29th.

Fig. 4 Mean Temperature and Rainfall Amount in association with 1981-2010 values.

The mild changeable spell continued into December until the 9th. A Scandinavian blocking high pressure system brought a colder quieter spell especially to eastern parts from the 9th

12 to mid-month. Storm Deirdre brought widespread freezing rain on the 15th, which caused considerable travel disruption. The mild changeable weather returned but from the 24th onwards it was somewhat more settled with high pressure dominant and a generally westerly flow resulting in mild and mostly cloudy conditions. The provisional UK mean temperature was 5.8 °C, which is 1.9 °C above the 1981-2010 long-term average. At North Littleton 39 Corn Buntings were recorded. A contender for one of the most bizarre WMBC records of all time occurred when an injured Stone-curlew was found in a garden on 7th, subsequently being released from care in good health. A Marsh Harrier moved through Brandon on 11th, a Snow Bunting was present on Worcestershire Beacon on 14th and a Water Pipit was found near floodwater in Worcestershire on 27th. The year concluded in excellent fashion with a first record for Warwickshire when a Dusky Warbler arrived at Kingsbury WP on 23rd, remaining to the year’s end.

Acknowledgements Many thanks to the Meteorological Office (Met Office) Weather Reviews.

©️ Crown Copyright, Met Office, which is provided under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0

Thanks also to ‘NERC Satellite Receiving Station, Dundee University, Scotland’ http://www.sat.dundee.ac.uk/ for the use of their images.

Jim Winsper

13 The sequence of species and the scientific names follow those British Ornithologists’ Union. 2017. The British List: A Checklist of Birds of Britain (9th edition). Ibis 160: 190-240 with published changes up to August 2019. The vernacular names are those of the British Birds List of Western Palearctic Birds. Records of distinctive subspecies are listed separately immediately after the commonly occurring race, their commonly used English names appearing in italics. All records of naturally occurring species within Categories A–C of ‘The British List’ appear in the main section. Those suspected of being of captive origin and all other species appear under Appendix 1 or Appendix 2 (Exotica); these mainly refer to escapes from avicultural collections and are not included in the totals. Records of National rarities are only published if they have been accepted by the BBRC, with the only exceptions being well-documented records which are still being assessed due to late submissions.

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

The following terms, relating to UK as a whole, are added to the status comments. Taken from Birds of Conservation Concern 4, 2017. • Red-listed species of the greatest conservation concern • Amber-listed species of moderate concern • Green-listed species of least concern

A list of the contributors to these notes, with their initials where used, appears at the back of this Report.

14 The following status categories have been used: Very rare fewer than ten records ever. Rare ten or more records, but less than annual (recorded in nine or less of the last ten years). Breeding less than annually. Scarce fewer than 20 birds occurring per annum or 10 pairs breeding. Uncommon 20-100 birds occurring or 10-50 pairs breeding. Frequent 100-500 birds occurring or 50-250 pairs breeding. Fairly common 500-5000 birds occurring or 250-2500 pairs breeding. Common 5000-20000 birds occurring or 2500-10000 pairs breeding. Very common 20000-50000 birds occurring or 10000-25000 pairs breeding. Abundant 50000+ birds occurring or 25000+ pairs breeding.

The following abbreviations have been used: CP Country Park Res Reservoir GC Golf Course SL Sewage Lagoons GPs Gravel Pit(s) STW Sewage Treatment Works HLS Higher Level Stewardship UP Urban Park LNR Local Nature Reserve WP Water Park NR Nature Reserve WTW Water Treatment Works

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Amber-listed Warks A couple circled Draycote for around five minutes on the morning of November 17th TMa and were thought likely, by the finder, to have been the same birds found later in the day at Tittesworth Res (Staffs). Staffs One dark-bellied bird was present at Belvide Res on January 19th PSm and two at Tittesworth Res on November 17th SGi, LHar. W Mid Two birds of the dark-bellied race were seen at Bartley Res on April 4th via BirdTrack.

Canada Goose Branta canadensis Common and increasing feral resident. Fairly common breeding species

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 190 170 160 90 60 128 40 220 80 160 - 160 Brandon 107 77 80 72 51 39 62 231 107 7 60 141 Earlswood Lakes 1 45 17 12 25 107 80 207 40 79 32 10 100 10 33 9 17 5 6 38 45 50 50 60 Napton Res 61 90 20 12 10 18 - 4 100 70 - - Salford Priors GP 265 250 41 45 10 70 270 280 300 82 370 615 Wormleighton Res 38 50 36 24 28 11 33 22 138 49 86 73 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 20 34 42 51 112 145 120 64 34 8 14 20 Avon Meadows 12 5 7 5 3 - - 5 4 15 17 21 Bevere Loch – Diglis 200 - 2 4 2 - - - - - 74 - Loch, River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 2 68 18 33 19 38 5 76 154 356 296 260 Beckford NR - 11 20 24 33 - - - 1 - - -

15 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Brake Mill Pool 6 - 2 2 4 - - 8 8 100 30 - ’s Hardwick 137 76 102 59 17 - - - - - 32 - Camp Lane Pits 191 - 210 110 42 39 47 68 200 600 460 241 Churchill - - 20 10 16 - - 28 - 24 - - Clifton Pits 5 160 12 158 30 12 13 78 95 250 137 151 Cofton Res - - 3 6 - - - - 158 - 38 - Croome River ------70 158 - 38 60 Grimley Old Workings - - 3 18 ------Gwen Finch Wetland 2 52 23 34 33 ------2 Hunnington Farm 33 17 19 9 5 ------John Bennett NR 201 118 102 32 19 9 24 36 - - 32 43 Lake 19 7 33 42 46 22 30 126 6 4 134 20 Lickhill Quarry - 45 26 13 15 14 ------Lower Moor/Wick Wetland 321 186 130 62 68 72 79 172 206 239 186 364 Lower Park Farm Fisheries - 8 25 15 17 20 ------Pirton Pool - 34 - 32 49 - - 1 - - - - Ripple Pits 52 76 4 10 35 63 77 131 350 1428 836 370 Stanford Lake 12 20 42 32 ------Trimpley Res & River - - - 19 12 14 - 12 - 24 - - Severn Throckmorton Lagoons 328 194 138 74 81 81 84 194 419 260 22 372 (Lower Moor flock) Upton Warren 160 193 108 63 65 112 99 330 400 104 220 200 Westwood Pool - 2 5 10 - - - - 24 190 - - Staffordshire - 174 8 27 5 71 13 107 77 - - 144 Aqualate Mere 178 67 26 60 107 247 259 206 181 375 1358 76 Audley 120 75 33 - - - - 120 - - - 30 Bateswood CP 6 22 21 12 10 29 32 20 29 123 130 10 Belvide Res 80 190 400 30 61 102 50 108 636 600 70 136 Blithfield Res 540 160 63 3 32 58 250 1200 298 754 765 765 Branston GP ------514 - 300 Copmere 103 60 - 3 4 4 18 12 35 92 321 - Croxall Lakes 128 16 27 43 50 - 140 58 180 42 58 160 Doxey Marshes 235 64 72 62 69 196 170 310 898 1028 260 255 Elford + Fisherwick North 127 43 6 8 20 - - - - 214 - - Pit Gailey Res 66 49 130 36 p 110 137 47 19 332 6 1 Knypersley Res - 28 35 - - 44 - 78 237 306 - 104 Lichfield – Stowe Pool 67 55 45 20 16 68 61 55 36 162 58 55 Radford Meadows 400 10 16 18 18 - - 100 350 400 300 500 Rudyard Lake - - - 21 22 90 75 - - 25 - 250 Tittesworth Res 200 138 124 26 117 278 300 124 56 36 254 276 Trentham Gardens 29 19 17 - - 30 - 32 56 365 - 56 Tucklesholme NR 96 - - - 41 - 171 55 92 22 62 130 Quarry 20 12 7 p 5 8 135 260 252 56 473 86 Westport Lake 134 148 136 88 - 188 173 - - 30 62 - Whitemoor Haye 17 200 - 14 10 10 59 207 97 893 163 224 West Midlands Bartley Res 7 14 14 12 12 4 9 4 53 10 - 1 85 65 83 62 74 120 252 P p p 119 p

16 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Fens Pools LNR 30 48 42 25 22 30 64 2 15 48 16 2 Marsh Lane NR 37 44 27 30 23 27 27 49 353 209 57 122 Merecroft Pool LNR 16 20 10 5 4 2 9 4 30 5 p 4 Rushall Canal 129 71 56 24 7 4 4 45 71 55 55 133 Saltwells LNR 7 10 27 22 3 p 32 26 7 40 p 15 Valley 80 150 110 40 28 100 90 150 30 123 210 80 Sutton Park NNR 53 110 63 68 48 63 256 97 94 69 38 79 60 105 24 28 18 13 72 50 78 60 157 80 Trittiford Mill Pool 73 80 112 40 68 114 235 55 60 70 86 75 West Park p 300 50 P 45 p p p p p 140 p

Warks Widely reported during the breeding season, with nesting records coming from , Nook (15 goslings on May 14th), Bermuda Balancing Lake, Bidford-on-Avon, Brandon (12 broods), , , Corley Ash, Cress Hill, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park (two broods), Kingsbury WP (at least 12 broods), Ladywalk NR (at least four pairs attempted), Lighthorne Pools, Long Lawford, Middleton Lakes (seven pairs), Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP (four broods, with 24 young reared), Angling Pools (several pairs bred) and Wormleighton Res (four broods, with 22 young reared). Larger counts away from tabulated sites were 170 at Kingsbury WP on January 16th, 450 at Draycote on June 13th, 150 at Welford-on-Avon on August 3rd and September 12th, 115 at Chesterton Pools on 22nd, 100 at Bedworth Woodlands on December 2nd and 210 on the river at Stratford- upon-Avon on 26th. Worcs Very few breeding records received. Nested at Arrow Valley Lake, Lower Park Farm Fisheries, six broods were noted at Pirton Pool, four broods at Ripple Pits, and several nesting pairs at Upton Warren. Counts above 20 away from the tabulated localities comprised 30 at Batchley on January 7th, 200+ at Bevere Island on 13th, 31 at Belbroughton on 14th, 24 at Wilden Marsh on March 26th, 25 and 30 at Town Centre on April 8th and May 13th respectively and 22 at Redditch - Oakenshaw on June 9th. Grimley brick pits held 50 on July 5th, 70 were at Eckington Meadows on 15th, 600 on stubble field at High Green on September 24th and 250 at Bevere Island on November 25th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at 32 sites compared to 24, 23, 24 and 18 in the past four years. Other three-figure non-tabulated counts were: in January 450 at Fauld, 150 at Middleton Lakes, 100 at Walton Bridge; in July 100 at Branston WP; in August 150 at Hanley Forest Park and Stanley Pool; in October 300 at Aston Marina; in November 100 at Himley Hall and in December 520 at Fauld, 462 at Endon STW, 150 at and 144 at Wolstanton. W Mid This species was recorded at an impressive 139 locations with over 1,100 entries on BirdTrack. Breeding took place at 28 sites with birds present in the breeding season at many more.

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

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Bredon’s Hardwick ------11--1 Ripple Pits ---1-----222 Upper Bittell Res -----8--1111 Staffordshire Blithfield Res 20 - - - - 8 1 27 - 1 - 1 Tittesworth Res --6759------Uttoxeter Quarry - - - - - 8 17 21 16 25 18 32

17 Warks One at Middleton Lakes on January 3rd and two on Terry’s Pool at Earlswood Lakes on May 15th were the only records. Worcs Singletons were recorded at Arrow Valley Lake on January 12th and 13th, plus on April 13th, two at Sling Pool on June 23rd and 24th and singles at Throckmorton Outer Lagoons from September 13th–October 20th, visiting nearby Lower Moor on September 16th and 19th, Ryall Pits on November 4th and Clifton Pits from 11th to early December. Staffs Two lingered at Doxey Marshes from January 8th until March 13th, one was at Belvide Res on January 24th and 31st with another at Meadows on 27th, then two long-stayers at Branston GP from March 8th until April 13th. Fauld hosted a pair on April 16th, one was at Coal Brook - Hales from May 20th–27th and another at Whitmore - Bent Lane on November 10th. W Mid The resident feral flock of up to 14 birds was seen throughout in the Pool area. In addition, ten birds were reported in the Sandwell Valley on September 11th, the same birds were noted again on November 6th.

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

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 2 16 20 20 15 3 - 2 1 5 - - Brandon 146 80 69 32 50 35 129 355 388 575 523 639 Earlswood Lakes 2 16 20 20 15 3 - 2 1 5 - 1 Morton Bagot 117 5 10 4 6 1 30 224 240 200 2 70 Salford Priors GP 451 325 108 27 10 26 405 330 450 550 680 485 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 6 8 11 22 25 26 40 39 2 - - 3 Avon Meadows 54 - - 5 8 ------1 Bittell Reservoirs - - 3 4 - 11 - 2 78 98 246 100 Bredon’s Hardwick 212 155 110 63 26 - - - - - 2 - Camp Lane Pits - 2 11 31 12 8 11 12 6 70 - 2 Clifton Pits - 129 122 2 1 2 4 12 72 28 104 128 Croome River - - - 2 ------6 120 John Bennett NR 10 12 11 7 8 6 - - - - 20 2 Kemerton Lake 2 28 61 52 18 45 394 134 1 14 3 Lickhill Quarry - 2 4 2 10 ------Lower Moor 201 181 116 89 112 116 168 175 232 262 287 156 Lower Park Farm - - 3 8 13 - 2 - - - - - Pirton Pool - 98 - 39 58 - - 21 - - - - Ripple Pits 130 1 1 14 3 20 13 76 363 852 671 681 Sling Pool 20 150 - - - 8 ------Throckmorton Lagoons 212 184 126 97 62 136 172 164 212 248 212 164 (Lower Moor flock) Trimpley Res & River -5-622-2---- Severn Upton Warren 51 30 18 6 9 15 18 47 95 30 71 57 Walton Pool 2 11 - 4 - - - - - 6 - - Westwood Pool 6 4 10 12 - - - - 210 95 - - Wythall Park 12 40 8 9 7 9 13 24 2 - - 2

18 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 3 24 2 2 20 - 9 56 71 51 577 3 Barton under Needwood - - 43 - - 120 - - 184 - - - Belvide Res - 64 159 5 3 - 53 381 232 317 55 239 Blithfield Res 94 210 57 11 32 116 190 1000 347 405 235 740 Branston GP - - - 2 2 - - 400 200 233 - 200 Bromley Pool 15 114 - - - - 65 - - - - - Camp Farm - - - 9 4 - - 29 - 120 - - Coal Brook - Hales 91 40 45 38 36 - 65 22 170 209 92 149 Croxall Lakes 1 - - - 3 - - - 150 - - - Doxey Marshes 58 8 3 4 3 18 1 61 134 120 71 56 Elford + Fisherwick North Pit - 37 5 3 - - 6 - 58 143 - 2 Gailey Res 64 98 4 6 2 117 91 9 1 36 22 8 Middleton Lakes 200 7 - - 6 4 50 - 31 50 200 - Radford Meadows 88 32 4 8 3 - - 2 200 18 32 92 Trentham Gardens - - 19 - 2 20 - 11 40 78 62 118 Uttoxeter Quarry 1 92 3 - 8 12 6 108 2 205 175 194 Whitemoor Haye 13 25 5 4 37 26 10 121 239 140 167 340 Whitmore - Bent Lane 315 87 - - 6 - - - - - 320 300 West Midlands Berkswell - 104 - - 5 - - - - - 50 44 Marsh Lane NR 320 107 144 20 76 45 228 346 455 451 186 243 Sandwell Valley 11373222---- Sutton Park NNR 2 6 2 11 18 21 43 - 12 1 - -

Warks Breeding activity was noted at Brandon (nine broods), Compton Verney, Coombe CP, Earlswood Lakes, Harborough Magna, Kingsbury WP, Marston Fields GP (33 goslings on July 2nd), Middleton Lakes (two pairs), Morton Bagot and Shrewley Angling Pools (several pairs bred). Away from tabulated sites three-figure counts were made only at Draycote, with a high of 250 on June 24th and Seeswood Pool, a maximum of 130 on November 17th. Worcs During the breeding season, nest building was observed at Arrow Valley Lake, nine pairs bred at Kemerton Lake, a pair with four goslings were at Hill Court Farm on June 18th, eight nesting pairs at Lower Moor, single broods noted at Pirton Pool and Ripple Pits, two pairs nested at Throckmorton Outer Lagoons, whilst at Upton Warren two pairs produced nine young, three of which fledged. Away from the table, first winter period sightings comprised five over Winyates East on January 1st, Walton Pool held three on 14th and four on February 17th, four at Riverside on February 2nd, four over Stanford on Teme on 21st and singles at Stanford Lake and Stanford on Teme on March 27th and 29th respectively. April sightings comprised three on the River Severn at Blackstone on 18th, five were at Wick on 13th and two at Finstall Park on 18th, whilst two visited Grimley Old Workings on June 6th. Up to 40 flew over on September 11th, 400 were counted on a stubble field at High Green on 14th and Sling Pool held three on December 16th. Staffs Confirmed breeding sites were Aqualate Mere, Blithfield Res, Branston GP, Branston WP, Gailey Res and Trentham Gardens. W Mid Marsh Lane NR had two pairs fail at the egg stage on Railway Pool, plus six other broods (31 goslings) most of which fledged. These pairs were either well concealed on the reserve or from the nearby . Elsewhere, birds were present at 40 additional locations with breeding occurring in at least five of these, with pairs present during the breeding season at several more.

19 Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor to Staffs, but normally rare further south. Also, a scarce feral visitor or escapee. Amber-listed Warks At the start of the year, one was with the Canada Geese at Ladywalk NR on January 6th PLi. In the second winter period, a lone bird that was first reported in the Region on October 31st, and remained into 2019, mainly frequented the Staffs parts of Alvecote Pools and the Tame Valley. However, it did make a couple of excursions into the county, visiting Railway Pool at Alvecote on November 24th RLS and Kingsbury WP on December 30th GPR. A party of four were presently briefly at Brandon on the morning of November 22nd BMVCT. Worcs Observations during the first winter period comprised several skeins, totalling around 100 birds over on January 6th and 35–40 over Shakenhurst Estate, Bayton at 5.30pm on March 4th. One joined the Canada Geese flocks at Arrow Valley Lake on December 27th and at nearby Abbey Park GC on 30th. Staffs There were many more reports than usual this year in January, commencing with 40 over Stoke-on-Trent on 1st and 150 over Dimmingsdale on 5th. January 6th saw skeins flying west/north-west at Aston Lodge Park (250), Belvide Res (236), Berry Hill (240), I54 (160), River Dove - Fauld (365) and Uttoxeter Quarry (530) but this was surpassed on 7th with birds over Baldwins Gate (80), Berry Hill (132), Ford Green NR (100), I54 (160), Ingestre (40), Keele (500), Prestwood, Stourton (90), Radford Meadows (15), Stoke-on-Trent (500), Stone (500), Stretton (260) and Tutbury (12). Further passage heading west/north occurred on 26th at Blithfield Res (74), Doxey Marshes (60), Meir (73) and Morrilow Heath (32). February passage was quieter with 100 NE at Baswich on 3rd, 85 SW at Radford Meadows on 3rd, 695 NW at Tittesworth Res on 4th and 100 NW at Dimmingsdale on 6th. Smaller counts of grounded birds, some of which may have been feral, comprised two at Audley from January 6th–29th, one at Belvide Res from January 7th–24th, two at Doxey Marshes on 7th with one on 26th, five at Radford Meadows on 8th, one at Whitmore - Bent Lane intermittently between 9th and March 17th, one at Tittesworth Res from January 10th until April 6th, one or two at Gailey Res intermittently between January 14th and March 24th, at Branston GP intermittently between January 18th and May 8th, one at Aston-Burston Trail on February 17th, two at Radford Meadows on March 14th, one at Bobbington from March 19th–23rd, Aqualate Mere on 25th, six at Coal Brook - Hales on 30th, singles at Dunstall on April 1st, Doxey Marshes on 8th, four at Uttoxeter Quarry on 8th, one at Aston-Burston Trail on April 10th and River Sow Meadows from May 3rd–17th on and off. The first returning birds were in September heading south on 23rd at Basford (32), Berry Hill (65), Black Bank (123) and Chasewater Res (18). The following day four were at Belvide Res and two flew SW over Black Bank and on 28th southerly passage continued at Berry Hill (80), Keele (220) and Westlands (60). One was at Belvide Res on October 1st then northerly passage was observed at Hulme North on 15th (500), Black Bank on 22nd (95) and Berry Hill (62) and Westport Lake (19) on 27th followed by nine SW over Black Bank on 28th. November passage was observed on 25th at Baldwins Gate (50 north), Dimmingsdale (75 SE) and Tittesworth Res (130 south) with 710 over the latter site the following day. Also, in November, one was at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool on 1st, two at Belvide Res on 2nd with one on 4th and one at Uttoxeter Quarry on 10th. December passage commenced on 4th at Keele University (seven west), 7th at Belvide Res (35 SE), 22nd at Berry Hill and Newcastle-under-Lyme (110 SE), 28th at Berry Hill (47 east) and Wolstanton (42 NW) and 31st at Dimmingsdale (60 east). Grounded birds in December included two at Blithfield Res on 8th with eight on 16th, one at Middleton Lakes from 9th–24th, Belvide Res on 20th, Radford Meadows on 26th, Doxey Marshes from 27th–29th, Tittesworth Res on 28th, Bateswood CP from 29th–31st, Belvide Res from 30th–31st and Whitemoor Haye on 31st.

20 W Mid There was an impressive total of four records this year, all on January 6th. The first occurrence was at Pendeford at 9.40am, when c.160 birds were seen flying overhead MAF, followed by two skeins over Wedge, where c.70 were observed at 10.20am SCl followed by a further c.60 at 10.40am CRo. Then at 12.10pm c.300 flew over Sutton Park NNR PJe.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also, scarce feral visitor or escapee. Red-listed Warks The only record was a single individual, considered to be of the European sub-species, accompanying the four Pink-footed Geese at Brandon on November 22nd BMVCT. All five birds flew off together after only a short stay, but this brief appearance stretches the species’ annual occurrence in the county to 12 years. Worcs Ripple Pits held three on the morning of December 5th RAP. Staffs The three birds found in Alvecote Pools, Warwickshire on November 29th were seen on Alvecote Pools – Pretty Pigs Pool on November 30th and December 2nd.

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris Rare winter visitor (3/10) Red-listed Worcs An unidentified grey goose with a satellite tracking collar, which flew over Ripple Pits on November 4th AWa, was relocated just across the county border in Gloucestershire at Twyning with a flock of Canada Geese on 17th MSm and its identity confirmed as an adult Greenland White-fronted Goose. It crossed the River Avon into Worcestershire later that day at Fleet Lane, Bredon’s Hardwick PRh, AWa, with further reports from here on 18th, 19th, 26th, December 8th, 18th and 19th. Additional sightings came from Ripple Pits on November 20th, 23rd, 30th, December 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th. Tracking data revealed its presence in the Ripple Pits area from November 3rd – 5th, Longdon Marsh on 21st, roosted at Kemerton Lake on some nights between 21st and 24th and visited Golden Valley Lake, Malvern Hills on December 12th. For the majority of December, the bird remained in Gloucestershire, favouring Coombe Hill Meadows where it was last recorded on January 1st 2019, then departed for Wexford, Ireland on 2nd. It was trapped in Hvanneyri west Iceland on 23rd September 2017 as an adult female and wintered in Wexford in 2017/18. This was the first county record.

Hybrid Geese

Greylag Goose x Domestic Goose Warks Two were present at Salford Priors GP throughout the autumn and early winter.

Greylag Goose x Canada Goose Warks A bird showing characteristics of a Canada x Greylag Goose hybrid was with the Greylag flock at Brandon on January 27th, February 11th, May 13th, 15th and from August 9th regularly up to the end of the year. Two were noted on November 26th. At least two were more or less resident in the Kingsbury WP area at the start of the year, with three such birds reported once each in October and November. In the south east one was at Wormleighton Res on July 27th and September 17th. Worcs Singles at Lower Moor/Wick River Meadows on January 21st, 31st, February 15th, 26th, March 4th, 5th and 22nd, Bittell Reservoirs on 24th, Ripple Pits on November 5th, 30th and December 5th, plus Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 29th. Staffs Two were at Radford Meadows in January, one at Wheaton Aston on 23rd, one at Bateswood CP from April 18th–30th and again from November 5th–December 16th, two

21 returned to Radford Meadows on September 5th and December 7th and one was at Chasewater Res on December 11th. The Bateswood bird was seen at nearby Eardley End on November 25th. W Mid One was present at Marsh Lane NR from January to March and again from July 28th to the year end, with additionally a maximum of six from September 12th–30th. Birds were also noted at Allesley Park, Berkswell, Hillfield Park, where there were eight on April 13th and Ladywood.

Greylag Goose x Bar-headed Goose Worcs One at Kemerton Lake on August 20th and the same at Lower Moor on 29th.

Canada Goose x Domestic Goose Warks One was at Salford Priors GP in the autumn and early winter.

Barnacle x Canada Goose Warks One was at Salford Priors GP on a number of dates from August 5th–September 16th. Worcs One at Ripple Pits on November 18th.

Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident. Amber-listed

Mute Swans, Middleton Lakes, Dave Emley

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 244424132363 Brandon 6 10 16 21 14 5 7 5 8 9 15 8 Coton/Lea Marston 2 22 118 30 - 169 p 268 44 51 13 3 Ladywalk NR 7 10 10 6 10 11 10 p 7 41 14 8 Salford Priors GP 6 2 3 5 4 11 12 12 14 13 20 17 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 564476-44856 Avon Meadows 6 4 6 6 4 3 9 11 11 11 9 5 Beckford NR 2242198-4434 Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, 218 - 187 136 154 - 174 - 162 229 241 179 River Severn

22 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Bewdley, River Severn 33 25 - 30 40 - - - 40 18 - - Bittell Reservoirs 8 2 3 2 2 4 7 15 22 26 23 14 Blackstone, River Severn - 2 - 1 5 2 56 - - - - - Brake Mill Pool 4-444--4--4- Bredon’s Hardwick 11 64-3------Camp Lane Pits 12 12 8 30 70 32 36 29 31 12 21 Churchill ------22-- Clifton Pits 5 2 6 7 14 12 4 16 125 13 8 Cofton Res --224------Croome River - - - 5 23 - - - 38 4 16 - Grimley Old Workings - - 2 6 - 55 2 2 2 2 - - Gwen Finch Wetland 4-644--2---- John Bennett NR 4 23 15 11 4 3 2 2 4 13 4 2 Kemerton Lake 222245221267 Lickhill Quarry --1-22------Lower Moor 13 2 - - 15 - - - - - 3 - Pirton Pool 2 2 - 4 12 - - 28 - 21 - 20 Ripple Pits 9 2 3 56 54 65 77 67 48 38 10 3 Trimpley Res & River Severn 2 - - 2 2 6 - 17 34 12 6 5 Upton Warren 4 8 7 10 13 4 4 8 11 11 7 8 Westwood Pool 4 2 7 6 6 3 12 9 7 6 4 2 Staffordshire Alrewas 178 107 19 60 107 247 259 167 59 12 11 9 Aqualate Mere 178 67 30 255 148 247 259 167 59 12 11 9 Belvide Res 17 8 9 16 17 35 38 46 28 29 6 30 Blithfield Res 5 7 9 2 25 39 19 7 1 2 2 31 Burton-on-Trent - 39 30 60 40 50 60 46 - - - 12 Chasewater Res 80 65 63 57 2 58 61 63 58 65 55 57 Fisherwick + Elford North Pit 2 8 22 33 4 16 11 35 33 57 33 55 Middleton Lakes 7 6 - - 7 20 32 - 22 40 47 - Trentham Gardens 53 84 37 - 39 50 68 84 96 79 64 45 Tucklesholme NR 18 3 - - 13 - 14 23 40 42 21 5 Whitemoor Haye 204 180 150 106 12 5 55 39 32 19 9 39 West Midlands Marsh Lane NR 38 56 10 6 10 20 21 39 28 8 10 18 Saltwells LNR 443242221544 Sandwell Valley 24 11 14 12 13 17 20 14 10 34 10 6 Sutton Park NNR 28 20 20 17 17 24 18 15 19 23 25 26

Warks Nesting pairs were reported from: , Bedworth Nook, Bermuda Balancing Lake, Bidford-on-Avon, Brandon (two), Charlecote, Clifton Lakes, Compton Verney, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Ladywalk NR (two), Long Lawford, Marston Fields GP, Middleton Lakes (four), Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Shrewley, Shustoke Res and Wormleighton Res. The highest count away from tabulated sites was 60 at Stratford-upon-Avon on January 2nd. One hit a power line at Ladywalk NR in mid-June, but after being rescued and treated for its injuries was well enough to be released back at the reserve. Worcs Single nesting pairs, other than stated reported from Arrow Valley Lake, - Avon Meadows (two pairs fledged broods of six and one), Batchley, Bredon’s Hardwick, Camp Lane Pits, Croome River (four cygnets on August 14th), Gwen Finch Wetland, John Bennett NR, Kemerton Lake, Longdon Marsh, Lower and Upper Bittell Reservoirs, Lower Moor, Pirton Pool

23 (two), Spetchley Park (seven cygnets on June 15th), Lock and Throckmorton Outer Lagoons. Away from the tabulated sites two were at Kyre Pool on January 6th, Longdon Marsh held 32 on 11th, 12 at Evesham Waterside on February 2nd, two at Walton Pool on 17th and 55 grazing at Saxon’s Lode on 18th, then 44 here on March 10th. Sling Pool held four on April 8th and 15th, two frequented Golden Valley Lake on May 1st, a walk along the canal between Porters Mill and produced a count of five on June 6th, whilst five were at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on 29th. During the second winter period, two were at Stanford on Teme on October 2nd, 41 grazed at Queenhill Rough on November 10th and five at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on December 15th. Staffs Aqualate Mere hosted the greatest number of birds again this year. There were 25 breeding sites this year, compared to 24, 25, 29 and 31 in the past four. Largest counts away from the tabulated sites were 42 near JCB South Lake in December and 30 at Westport Lake in March. W Mid This species was reported from 78 locations. Notes of breeding or attempted breeding came from Blythe Valley Park, Cannon Hill Park, (seven cygnets), Fens Pools LNR, Kings Norton, Lifford Res, Marsh Lane NR (five cygnets), Marston Green, Merecroft Pool LNR (three cygnets), Park (three cygnets), Red House Park, Sandwell Valley, Stubber’s Green, Sutton Park NNR, Trittiford Mill Pool, Rushall Canal () and . The only notable count away from those tabulated was 40+ birds at on July 23rd.

Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus Scarce, though declining winter visitor and passage migrant. (9/10) Warks Attention was focused on the Avon Valley between and Rugby, with records in both winter periods. A single bird was present with Mute Swans between Bretford and Church Lawford from March 7th–30th and was also seen on the latter date at nearby Brandon PWC, SCN, GPR. Later in the year, two arrived at Brandon on November 29th and were present until December 9th, roosting at the reserve by night and feeding during the day on nearby fieldsBMVCT . W Mid Hot on the heels of the 2017 Clayhanger Marsh record, Bewick’s Swan, Church Lawford, Bob Hazell itself the first since 2011, was one recorded at Marsh Lane NR on January 7th DJS (fifth site record). It was seen initially on Car Park Pool, but harassment from the local Mute Swans saw it eventually settle on Railway Pool where it remained until mid-afternoon.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce or uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also, a recent feral visitor. Amber- listed Warks An excellent year, with records from a good range of sites. The returning Abbey Fields bird noted late in 2017 was seen on a number of dates in January ACo, GPR, AWi, last being

24 reported on 30th JGB. Elsewhere, in the first month of the year, one flew over Ladywalk NR on 8thPSo . A group of seven flew over Coton Lakes at dusk on February 5th ARD and, after none in March, there was a spate of sightings in April. One flew over Pleasance Farm, on 8th TMa, followed the day after by another at Draycote DCox, RCM, with additional records at Whooper Swans, Camp Lane Pits, Andy Warr Brandon on 12th BMVCT, GP on 13th PWC and back at Brandon on 15th BMVCT. It seems likely the same individual was accountable for all these April records, and photographs taken at Draycote showed it to be a different bird to that previously at Abbey Fields based on bill pattern. The second half of October proved to be a productive period. Nocturnal flight calls were heard near Napton- on-the-Hill on the evening of 17th KYa, four flew into Shustoke Res on the afternoon of 18th JJB and one was at Draycote on 19th per CEH. After a four-day gap, one flew briefly over the Warwickshire section of Middleton Lakes on 23rd DCor, two flew over Draycote on 25thDCox , RCM and 26th TMa, and a party of six were at Alvecote Pools also on the latter date RLS. The south-west of the county got in on the action when four flew over Salford Priors GP on 28th, with two again on 29th per NDu, when three also flew over to the north-east at Coleman’s Hill DRi. In November, three adults were regular visitors to Brandon between 15th and 19th, and after a brief gap, four were present from 29th until December 22nd, reducing to two until the end of the year. This constituted the first over-wintering record for the reserveBMVCT . Three of the birds also visited nearby Coombe CP during the month PHod. Worcs The adult at Upton Warren from the end of 2017 remained loyal to the Moors Pool (though also visited the Flash Pools on January 28th), until February 24th, when it was joined by three adults and two immatures before departing that same day. Good numbers recorded during the autumn and second winter period, the first being two adults at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on September 28th BRS. Clifton Pits held three adults on October 3rd AHo, one was at Westwood Pool on 16th WDu, whilst three adults arrived late morning at the Moors Pool - Upton Warren on 18th JTB, APi. The Upton trio remained until 23rd, when four more adults arrived in the morning and the original three flew off at 4pm JTB et al. Next day the Moors Pool held five adults DAJ, then four again from 25th – December 5th, with additional birds on October 27th (a family group of two adults and six juveniles arrived at the sailing lake) a total of 12 birds on the reserve JTB et al, plus two new adults on November 26th GCo et al. Elsewhere, one flew along the Teme Valley at Shelsley on October 29th NSk, two over Top Barn Farm, Grimley on November 1st BRi, an immature over Trimpley Lane, Bewdley on 8th MFI and five at Clifton Pits on 25th SAb. There were four adults at Upper Bittell Res (Upton birds) on December 6th CTh, two adults in the morning at Camp Lane Pits PHop, JWr and presumably the same two over at 4.40pm DWal on 9th and finally two adults at Kemerton Lake on 10thRAP . Staffs One flew NW over Uttoxeter Quarry on January 6th and the following day saw and influx of seven at Belvide Res, 10 at Branston GP and 13 at Whitemoor Haye. The latter site hosted two long staying birds from January 13th until February 25th during which time one turned up at Trentham Gardens Lake on January 23rd, 24 at Aqualate Mere, nine at Tittesworth Res and 30 over Trentham Gardens on February 4th, and three at Blithfield Res on 18th. Whitemoor Haye again hosted a single on February 27th, increasing to four from March 3rd until 18th, rising again to six on 17th. Late birds were at Radial Park on May 7th and Tittesworth Res on 19th. The first returning bird was at Belvide Res on October 7th, then two over Hanley on 11th, nine over Westport Lake on 15th, one at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool from 18th–22nd, two

25 over Berry Hill, two at Blithfield Res, two at Tittesworth Res and 14 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 22nd, one at Middleton Lakes from 23rd–24th, four at Belvide Res, one at Blithfield Res and five over University Hospital (Stoke) on 26th, two at Blithfield Res, Middleton Lakes, three at Tittesworth Res and one at Westport Lake on 27th, seven over Berry Hill, seven at Blithfield Res, seven at Branston GP (the same herd) and five at Middleton Lakes on 28th, one at Belvide Res on 29th and two at Belvide Res on 31st made for a very busy October. In November, four were at Blithfield Res on 13th, 14 flew over the same site on 20th, two at Aqualate Mere and nine over Chasewater Res which were later seen over Belvide Res on 25th, one at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool on 26th and four at Blithfield Res on 30th. In December six were near JCB South Lake from 2nd – 3rd with seven again on 22nd, two were at Blithfield Res on 4th, one at Sittles / Whitemoor Haye from 6th–7th increased to two from 8th–9th and one was over Blurton on 16th. W Mid A “herd” of five was at Marsh Lane NR on February 6th with another briefly on March 30th GPR. This was followed by an adult bird seen on 42 occasions between April 23rd and July 29th, photographs suggest it was possibly the same long staying individual from last year. During the second winter period a pair were observed on Car Park Pool on October 28th, they spent most of the time asleep and were presumably newly arrived migrants. In addition, an adult was seen between November 4th and 6th and again from 20th through to December 21st; this was probably the long stayer from earlier in the year. Elsewhere, two were seen at Brueton Park NR on March 24th KBo with one at Sandwell Valley on October 14th Birdguides.

Wild Swans Warks Two, which could have been either Bewick’s or Whooper Swans, flew over the car park at Middleton Lakes on January 7th per CEH, SMH. Worcs Two flying high over Worcester City Centre calling on October 1st PFW and six over Evesham Greenhill on the 31st PFW were thought to probably be Whoopers.

Whooper Swan x Mute Swan W Mid Two birds were observed at Marsh Lane NR on four dates between August 28th and September 8th.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Scarce feral visitor or escape; rare breeder.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Clifton Pits -2212222---2 Grimley area 2-212---2222 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 2 - - p - 1 - - 10 8 - - Belvide Res 23111------Blithfield Res -1-2222522-- Branston GP --4232244342 Croxall Lakes --2-2-3--23- Middleton Lakes 222236557755 Radford Meadows 5--21------Tucklesholme NR ---31444-252 Whitemoor Haye 4 10 8 3 - - - - 3 4 3 13

26 Warks Although there was no repeat of last year’s record flock, it was another good showing with records in every month bar August. In the north, most sightings came from the Kingsbury WP/Marston Fields GP area, with highs of seven at Lower Farm, Bodymoor Heath on November 10th per CEH and at Kingsbury WP on 15th RWA. Elsewhere in the county, birds were noted for the first time at both Napton Res per TMa and Farnborough Park JJB on the respective dates of March 15th and April 3rd, whilst Earlswood Lakes Egyptian Goose, Draycote, John Judge had its second and third records on October 18th and November 8th JOa, JHS. Other sporadic sightings of one to three birds during the course of the year came from Brandon, Charlecote, Compton Verney, Coombe CP, Draycote, Ladywalk NR, Middleton Lakes area, Salford Priors GP and more unusually near Services (Chesterton) on the M40. Worcs Away from Clifton Pits and the Grimley area (see table), Bredon’s Hardwick held two on January 1st, three at Ripple Pits on 28th, one at Westwood Pool on March 14th, one at Pershore - Avon Meadows on April 20th, two at Ryall Court Pits on May 28th, one at Upton Warren on October 25th, two at Ripple Pits on November 5th and two on a field near the River Salwarpe at Hawford on December 26th. Staffs One pair bred at Middleton Lakes, producing six chicks of which three fledged. Non- tabulated records comprised four at Elford + Fisherwick North Pit on February 15th, two at Whitmore - Bent Lane on 19th, two at Doxey on March 6th, one at Stableford on April 16th, two at Tittesworth Res on June 2nd, one at Borrowpit Lake on July 14th, two at Bobbington on October 26th, two at Elford + Fisherwick North Pit on November 8th, six at Uttoxeter Quarry on 10th, two at Dunstall Hall on 13th and two at Elford + Fisherwick North Pit on December 6th. W Mid One was seen at Marsh Lane NR on January 17th with two there the next day. Another bird was present on February 4th, 11th and 12th. One was also observed frequenting the nearby Flood Plain on May 26th.

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

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 564332-11--2 Draycote -13----92-31 Kingsbury WP 232223------Ladywalk NR 5 17 11 6 5 - 3 - - - 3 3 Salford Priors GP 165522-3---3 Worcestershire Arrow Valley lake 634------Clifton Pits - - 4 11 6 2 2 2 2 - - - Grimley & Holt --213---114-

27 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND John Bennett NR 12252------Lower Moor/Wick Wetland 2 2 3 2 2 2 ------Ripple Pits 1--84----12- Upton Warren 12 9 6 9 11 8 1 3 - - 4 3 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 5 3 6 10 10 4 - 2 - - - 5 Belvide Res 5 5 9 12 18 12 11 7 2 3 1 2 Blithfield Res 8 1 5 8 14 22 7 4 5 8 19 16 Branston GP 18 26 40 24 40 36 12 5 6 4 14 14 Coal Brook - Hales 3 10 33 8 6 1 5 1 - 2 1 8 Doxey Marshes 948544--2332 Middleton Lakes 15 16 18 20 6 4 4 - - 2 9 13 Radford Meadows 2-3473-----2 Tucklesholme NR - - - 9 3 12 12 4 1 - - 4 Uttoxeter Quarry 10 7 7 2 5 4 - 1 1 - 1 - Whitemoor Haye 18 6 6 9 3 - - 1 - - 1 - West Midlands Bartley Res ------8--1 Berkswell ------3---7 Marsh Lane NR 14342-53--17 Mercote Mill 134------

Warks Two pairs were proven to have bred in the county. A pair hatched ten young at Salford Priors GP in mid-May, with nine fledging. The family party was subsequently found crossing the B4088 near Ragley Park on June 4th, where a couple of helpful drivers herded them to the safety of an adjacent field! At Middleton Lakes, a pair nested near the car park and led the chicks out onto the main reserve down the bridleway. Although courtship and mating were noted at Brandon and Ladywalk NR, and a pair was prospecting for a nest site at Kingsbury WP in mid- April, there were no subsequent confirmed nesting at any of these sites. An adult and four flying juveniles at Morton Bagot on July 29th had come in from elsewhere rather than being locally bred. The best parties away from tabulated sites were 22 at Lea Marston Lake on February 23rd and 12 at Alvecote Pools on March 2nd. Small numbers were also reported occasionally from: Abbots Salford, Bedworth Woodlands, Birchmoor, Dairy Farm, Earlswood Lakes, Shustoke Res and Whitacre Waterworks. Worcs Reports of breeding pairs comprised a brood of eight at Lower Moor/Wick River Meadows, unfortunately all predated by June 9th, a pair with six young at Ryall Pits on June 24th and six fledged young were noted at Clifton Pits on August 15th. Good numbers reported away from the tabulated sites, starting with two at Lower Moor/Wick River Meadows on January 26th, two and one at Gwen Finch Wetland on March 3rd and 6th respectively, one at Pershore - Avon Meadows on 8th, a pair at Bredon’s Hardwick on 10th, eight at Upton-upon-Severn, plus five at Ryall Pits on 14th, one at Longdon North Marsh on 20th, two pairs at Ryall Pits on 28th and two at Westwood Pool on 30th. A pair frequented Hill Court Farm throughout May, with three here on 20th, two were noted at Croome River on May 5th, Lickhill Quarry held a pair on 13th, 19th, June 2nd and 3rd, whilst one was at Eckington Meadows on May 22nd. Fewer reports during the second half of the year, with one at Ryall Pits on July 21st, one at Bevere Island on October 19th, one at Tiddington Hall Farm pool on 20th, two at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 24th and one at Queenhill Rough on December 24th. Staffs Birds were recorded at a further 22 sites during the year. Breeding showed an increase over last year; at Belvide Res (two – three pairs with young, only the second time breeding has occurred here since 1985), Blithfield Res (35 ducklings from approximately six pairs),

28 Branston GP (four pairs with young), Coal Brook - Hales (one pair with two ducklings), Doxey Marshes (two, both failed), Middleton Lakes (one pair fledging two out of four ducklings) and Tucklesholme NR (one pair fledged eight young). The only non-tabulated double-figure count was 10 at Croxall Lakes on May 14th. W Mid A typical series of records from Marsh Lane NR and surrounding areas. Elsewhere, were seen at Meriden Quarry on January 10th, 13th and 20th. A family party of 12 were seen here in late-May and early-June, from which at least three young fledged. The eight seen at Bartley Res in September was considered to be noteworthy for this location.

Shelduck x Ruddy Shelduck Warks One was at Lea Marston Lake on February 23rd and Alvecote Pools on March 2nd. Staffs The hybrid was present again at Branston GP from January 16th–23rd

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and visitor.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Grimley area -1--12-11-1- Trimpley Res and River 23 12 - - 3 9 15 21 24 27 18 12 Severn Wyre Forest - - 2 2 2 12 - - - - - 10 Staffordshire Branston GP 1332-2121--8 Brookleys Lake 127 ------44 97 186 Cheddleton/Consall Valley - 14 47 6 3 ------Coal Brook - Hales --43--111--- Dimmingsdale 6 - 2 - 2 5 - - 9 - 88 17 Ingestre Hall - - - 2 19 1 3 2 p - - - Tittesworth --2-31-9-3-1 Toadhole Bridge - Colwich 5 14 6 2 2 3 1 - 1 46 39 23 Trentham Gardens 5 - 4 16 p 4 5 - 5 14 8 6

Warks Recorded at 17 sites (cf.12 in 2017), and although they were noted at Abbots Salford, Brandon, Dairy Farm, Packwood, Salford Priors GP and Welford-on-Avon during the breeding season there were no confirmed nesting attempts. The most reliable location was Ladywalk NR, birds being present fairly regularly in both the first and last two months of the year, with a high of seven on January 31st–February 1st. In September, four were at Earlswood Lakes on 3rd, six at Salford Priors GP on 8th and 9th and six at Temple Pool on 29th. The largest count came in November, with 17 reported on the lake at Ragley Park. Smaller counts of one to three during the year were also made at: Compton Mandarins, Studley, Mark Clarke

29 Verney, Draycote, Dosthill Lake, Henley-in-Arden, Morton Bagot, Over Whitacre and Saxon Mill - Warwick. Worcs The population in the county remains stable, though the only confirmed breeding record came from Hill Court Farm, where a female with six young were noted on May 13th, then six fledged young were recorded on June 16th. Away from the tabulated sites, first winter period sighting comprised a drake at Hill Court Farm on January 3rd, whilst Stanford Lake held counts of one on 7th, 32 on 11th, 21 on 14th and 24 on February 2nd, plus an additional 12 at Stanford on Teme also on 2nd. Lower Bittell Res held a drake on 9th, whilst in March, Stanford on Teme held three on 3rd, 10 on 4th and seven on 27th, four pairs were at The Strandbatches on the 5th, then a pair here on 22nd, a pair at Wood Norton River Meadows from 15th–31st, a drake at Westwood Pool on 25th and a pair at Stoke Bliss on 30th. During April, three were along a stream at Old Storridge on 1st, a drake at Hill Court Farm on 3rd, 14th, 19th and 20th one at Pershore - Avon Meadows on 4th, a drake and two ducks in treetops at Midsummer Hill on 8th and a drake on floods at Severn Stoke on 14th. Ripple Pits held a pair on 15th, 17th and 21st, a drake on 27th and a female on 28th, a pair was at Eckington Bridge on 17th, two at Old Storridge on 18th, one along the Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on 20th and a drake at John Bennett NR on 23rd. May sightings comprised a drake at Diglis Lock - Worcester on 2nd, one at Pershore - Avon Meadows on 3rd, Ripple Pits held a pair on 6th, 7th and 13th and a drake on 11th, 14th, 19th and 20th, two were at Witley Court on 12th, a drake at Hill Court Farm on 18th and 20th, plus a drake flew south along the River Severn at Callow End. Wood Norton River Meadows held a female on June 15th, a drake was at Clifton Pits on 18th, one at Blackstone on 22nd, a drake a Clifton Pits on July 28th, a drake at Ripple Pits on August 5th and a female at Uckinghall Fishing Lake on 9th. Numbers increased at Clifton Pits during August with six here on 9th, ten on 14th and 14 on 18th, but just two remained by 20th. Singles were observed during the autumn and second winter period at Ripple Pits on September 1st, Uckinghall Fishing Lake on 2nd and 8th, Upton Warren on 28th, Westwood Pool on October 14th, Upton Warren on 22nd, Bittell Reservoirs on November 5th and 6th, Westwood Pool on 24th and 25th, Lower Bittell Res on 27th and Finstall Park on December 2nd. The Standbatches had an impressive count of 35 on 6th. Staffs Brookley’s Lake was again the most populous site in the county, but many more sites hosted double-figure counts as shown in the table above, indicating a general increase in numbers in the county. However, the number of sites hosting this species was 37 compared with 53, 42 and 46 in the past three years. Breeding was confirmed at Bearda, Cheddleton/ Consall Valley, Dimmingsdale, Freehay, Hall Dale, Ingestre, River Sow Meadows - Baswich and Toadhole Bridge - Colwich and probably occurred at Elkstone and Keele University. There were 14 birds at Freehay on August 24th. W Mid Birds were present during the breeding season at Blackroot Pool, Sutton Park NNR with up to three birds present between April and July but there was no evidence of breeding. Elsewhere a male was seen at Marsh Lane NR on January 6th and 8th and again on March 31st. At Rowheath Pavilion a male was seen on April 28th and 29th. Sandwell Valley saw a maximum of 13 birds on October 18th, dropping to ten on October 21st. Swanshurst Park recorded a single bird on November 17th, with one at Park Lime Pits the same day.

Garganey Spatula querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, but rarely breeding. Very rare in winter. Amber-listed

Long-term average: March 30th (74) to October 5th (74) 8-year average: March 16th (14 days earlier) to October 7th (2 days later) First arrival: March 16th; Pendeford (WMid) Last departure: November 3rd; Middleton Lakes (Warks)

30 Warks A much better year than 2017. A male was present at Middleton Lakes on Fisher’s Mill during the breeding season but seemingly failed to attract a mate. The first arrival was a pair at Alvecote Pools on April 15th, who made a concerted stay until May 5th. A male was at Brandon from April 22nd–25th and an unsexed individual was at Ladywalk NR on May 5th. In the post- breeding season, the only July record was a female at Salford Priors GP on 2nd and 9th. A long- staying female/juvenile was at Brandon on most days between August 3rd and 30th, an unsexed bird was at Ladywalk NR on 22nd, 25th and 29th and a female/juvenile was at Salford Priors GP on 26th. In September one was at Alvecote Pools on 3rd, but attention was mainly focused at Brandon and Ladywalk NR. At the latter a female first arrived on 8th, joined by a male on 11th. Although the drake was not seen subsequently, the female remained loyal to the site, and although elusive at times, hung on until October 24th. At Brandon, what may have been the same individual from August was seen on most days between September 9th and 24th, with two on 12th and 21st. The last of the year was a female/juvenile at Middleton Lakes on November 3rd. Worcs A drake took up residence in the Grimley area during the breeding season, arriving at Camp Lane Pits on May 29th. It was observed almost daily, favouring Camp Lane Pits, but also visited Sling Pool and Grimley Old Workings on occasions and was presumably the same individual present to August 9th. This bird and a second drake were also observed at Sling Pool on June 1st, whilst other spring sightings comprised a female type at Ripple Pits on March 23rd, a drake at Ripple Pits on May 6th and two drakes at Clifton Pits on 24th. Autumn birds were confined to the Grimley area, with a female at Camp Lane Pits most days from September 3rd–18th, plus two reported at Grimley Old Workings on 6th and the Camp Lane female visited Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 7th. Sightings of a female also came from Camp Lane Pits on September 25th, October 17th and 18th. Staffs The first arrivals were a pair at Radford Meadows on April 16th followed by a drake at Chasewater Res on 17th, another at Middleton Lakes on 19th and two at Cannock Chase - Punchbowl on 28th. A drake took up residence at Belvide Res from May 9th–13th with another from 22nd–28th and a pair at Tittesworth Res on 21st. In June, one or two males were croaking at Middleton Lakes, but no evidence of breeding ensued. Also, in June, two were present at Tucklesholme NR on 2nd, a drake at Branston GP on 3rd and a female at Belvide Res on 29th lingered until July 13th. Further July sightings were two females at Branston GP on 14th and one at Middleton Lakes on 23rd. In August, two were at Middleton Lakes from 8th–15th, an immature male at Tucklesholme NR from 11th–12th with a similar bird at Branston GP from 11th–13th, one at Middleton Lakes from 18th–23rd, two from 24th–27th, three on 28th, decreasing to one until September 14th. Further sightings in August were an eclipse male at Doxey Marshes from 20th–21st and one at Belvide Res on 25th. The last birds were at Blithfield Res on September 21st and Branston GP from 27th–29th. W Mid The first arrival was a single at Pendeford on March 16th, with the only other spring birds being a pair at Marsh Lane NR on May 23rd. Post-breeding season records commenced at Stubber’s Green with three in eclipse plumage on July 30th, August 2nd–5th and again on 26th. Also, an eclipse bird was seen in the Sandwell Valley on August 23rd, then intermittently until September 15th with that or another on 27th.

Shoveler Spatula clypeata Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare and decreasing breeding species. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 11 11 1 - - - - 1 20 16 3 3 Bedworth Woodlands 5 6 11 14 ------1

31 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Brandon 79 97 51 54 4 7 1 11 31 29 28 123 Coton/Lea Marston 42 240 192 - - - 1 10 10 64 205 150 Draycote 2 13 3 14 2 - - 2 13 4 6 3 Earlswood Lakes - 2 2 2 2 - - 3 16 9 18 - Kingsbury WP 126 210 p 48 2 8 4 - 40 40 78 75 Ladywalk NR 47 34 150 66 3 6 3 12 25 75 15 104 Salford Priors GP 37 39 56 45 2 - 2 9 23 25 12 45 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 9 28 28 1 ------28 36 Avon Meadows 4-22------Bittell Reservoirs 7 2 ------15 28 48 34 Bredon’s Hardwick 12 - 25 - 1 ------Camp Lane Pits 68 40 100 29 12 3 2 3 12 40 61 48 Clifton Pits 5 6 8 2 2 2 2 6 6 4 6 Grimley Old Workings - - - 1 - 2 - - 2 7 2 2 Gwen Finch Wetland 8 10 2 1 - - - - - 2 5 3 Hill Court Farm (Longdon S) - - 48 ------2 - John Bennett NR 4 10 14 8 2 - - 1 - 10 26 18 Kemerton Lake 41------24- Lickhill Quarry - 5 13 11 ------Longdon Marsh (N) 4 - 30 20 - - - - 6 - - - Lower Moor/Wick Wetlands 14 12 14 10 - - - - 6 8 8 6 Pirton Pool - - - 1 - - - 1 - 3 - 17 Ripple Pits 23 13 40 12 2 1 - - 23 23 19 8 Sling Pool 4 - 19 8 1 2 - - - - 1 11 Throckmorton Outer Lagoons 8 10 6 - - - - - 7 7 7 5 Upton Warren 40 31 39 23 6 5 3 12 40 36 39 24 Westwood Pool 14 8 16 3 - - - - 1 14 22 40 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 21 1 3 50 3 4 - 7 11 6 55 30 Belvide Res 30 33 46 100 4 8 9 47 86 31 54 68 Blithfield Res 12 - 13 17 - 88 - - 20 27 65 33 Branston GP 35 18 31 16 4 13 9 35 79 118 45 30 Croxall Lakes 32 1 4 2 - - - - 15 6 9 3 Doxey Marshes 36 32 24 14 1 3 - 19 41 55 71 72 Middleton Lakes 30 60 - 2 2 5 10 10 42 115 20 - Radford Meadows 37 5 35 22 - - - - 7 8 1 48 Tucklesholme NR - - - 4 2 9 3 18 - - - - Uttoxeter Quarry 7 3 6 6 - - - 3 3 43 40 54 Whitemoor Haye 35 1 2 - - - 1 - 24 - 12 2 West Midlands 30 10 4 1 - - - - p 4 p - Fens Pools LNR --5------43 Marsh Lane NR 46 40 53 33 6 3 9 12 64 51 88 109 Merecroft Pool LNR 7142------Olton Mere 4--2---24444 Sandwell Valley 24 28 24 10 - 2 1 6 18 23 68 25 Sutton Park NNR ------11 10 - -

Warks Breeding could only be confirmed at Alvecote Pools, where a female was seen with a brood of ducklings in both June and July. Birds over-summered at both Ladywalk NR and

32 Kingsbury WP and a pair were also present at Salford Priors GP in May. At the latter, a site record count had been made in March. The highest parties away from tabulated sites were 16 at Meadow NR on November 22nd and 26 at Middleton Lakes on December 20th. Reports came from around 27 sites, with a pair on a farm pond near Baddesley Clinton on March 13th, a male at Lighthorne Quarry on 24th and three at Abbey Fields in early September representing less typical locations for this species. Shoveler, Draycote, Bob Hazell Worcs Three drakes were noted during the spring at Upton Warren, but with no proof of any breeding attempts this year. All sightings away from the tabulated localities came during the first winter period and spring. Tardebigge Res held three on January 12th and six on 14th, four were at Finstall Park on 14th, two at Wythall Park on February 7th, eight at Blackstone on 11th, seven at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 17th, a pair at Eckington Meadows from March 9th–April 10th, 16 at Hewell Grange Lake on March 29th and three at Upton-upon-Severn on April 14th. Staffs Three pairs attempted to breed at Doxey Marshes, two succeeding with initial broods of seven and eight and four pairs attempted at Middleton Lakes with one pair being seen with nine ducklings. Sightings came from 25 other sites, the best being 30 at Barton-under-Needwood on September 19th, 30 at Barton GP on December 26th, 24 at Croxden Quarry on February 27th and 20 at Branston WP on November 30th. W Mid A pair was seen sporadically at Marsh Lane NR during the breeding season but there was no sign of any breeding activity. It was a similar story at Sandwell Valley despite birds being present during the breeding season. The only significant count away from tabulated sites was a flock of 26 at West Park on February 5th. Elsewhere small numbers were encountered at Babb’s Mill, Bartley Res, Berkswell, Clayhanger Marsh, Dartmouth Park, Edgbaston Res, Goscote Valley, Mesty Croft, , Pendeford Mill, Plantsbrook NR, Queslett NR, Red House Park, Saltwells LNR, Streetly, Stubber’s Green and Swanshurst Park.

Gadwall Mareca strepera Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Common breeding species. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 433642-42337 Brandon 26 50 29 23 21 27 9 49 49 62 17 19 Coton/Lea Marston 53 p p p - 25 33 36 110 34 11 5 Dairy Farm - - 18 2 4 14 11 4 2 1 6 38 Draycote 15 20 6 12 6 2 - 1 - 4 16 26 Kingsbury WP 128 51 p p 10 300 350 39 114 268 244 140 Ladywalk NR 228 86 100 31 32 43 44 100 100 128 53 73 Napton Res 19 22 18 - - - - - 4 4 2 7 Salford Priors GP 10 13 27 28 12 33 15 14 14 8 10 18

33 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, --922------River Severn Bittell Reservoirs - 2 - - 2 - - - 3 2 9 14 Bredon’s Hardwick 4-22------2 Camp Lane Pits 80 - 59 20 50 60 41 38 48 31 52 57 Clifton Pits - 10 4 6 7 - 2 2 6 4 2 2 Grimley Old Workings - - - 25 - 72 - 10 2 11 4 4 John Bennett NR - 14 6 1 2 2 1 - - - - 5 Kemerton Lake 2 3 1 7 2 9 1 4 4 3 15 8 Lower Moor 6 9 9 2 2 2 - 5 8 9 11 17 Pirton Pool ---21------2 Ripple Pits 4 8 22 9 7 6 1 13 2 28 8 Sling Pool --9--8----49 Throckmorton Outer Lagoons 17 10 16 5 4 2 4 7 10 7 7 9 Upton Warren 15 11 8 11 19 13 2 16 14 12 5 7 Westwood Pool 12 21 23 15 - - - - 2 2 4 1 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 135 50 31 3 14 108 33 115 23 6 18 8 Belvide Res 107 87 97 80 73 70 64 124 133 66 95 167 Branston GP 44 18 18 32 39 57 34 91 64 65 53 44 Branston WP 12 - 29 ------50 100 30 Chasewater Res 25 25 ------2 15 30 25 Coal Brook - Hales - 26 10 3 15 - - 17 16 9 3 37 Middleton Lakes 12 25 - - 40 16 10 - 138 88 200 - Trentham Gardens 14 3 8 ------8 4 20 Whitemoor Haye 44 - - 4 2 - - 8 2 - 6 2 West Midlands Berkswell 23334------1 Marsh Lane NR 27 33 16 32 34 64 25 82 80 19 14 48 Meriden 22 14 2 2 1 ------Sandwell Valley 36 12 30 10 5 8 4 6 32 25 37 7 Sutton Park NNR 2 ------2 10 18 7 11

Warks Breeding was reported at Brandon (at least six broods), Dairy Farm (two broods), Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk NR (at least six broods), Middleton Lakes (seven pairs) and Salford Priors GP. In mid and late-summer impressive numbers built up at Kingsbury WP, although not quite as high as the 360 there in August 2015. Maxima away from the tabulated sites were 10 at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on January 14th, 30 at Coombe CP on February 25th, 17 at Wolston GP on April 6th and 13 at Shustoke Res on December 28th. Smaller numbers were also noted at: Bedworth Woodlands, Charlecote, Dunsmore Heath, Earlswood Lakes, Morton Bagot, Ryton Pools CP, and Wormleighton Res. Worcs No breeding data received from the Grimley area, though presumably still a quite common breeding species here. Nesting was confirmed at Kemerton Lake where a pair fledged eight young, whilst at Upton Warren, two chicks were recorded on May 11th, but not on subsequent dates. A pair was also present during the breeding season at Hill Court Farm and John Bennett NR. Away from the table, four were at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on January 7th, nine at Northwick Slip on March 18th, Pershore - Avon Meadows held two on April 26th, May 10th and 17th, two at Beckford NR on September 24th, two at Finstall Park on December 9th, one at Arrow Valley Lake on 26th and one at Cofton Res on 29th.

34 Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res (seven broods), Branston GP (five+), Doxey Marshes (three pairs, two with broods) and Middleton Lakes (five broods). High counts from other sites were 42 at Tameside NR, 30 at Barton GP and 20 at Trentham Gardens and Tucklesholme NR, all in December. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR it was estimated that there were ten broods (64 ducklings), which was broadly similar to last year, although the success rate was lower with only c.40 thought to have fledged. The Gadwall, Draycote, Bob Hazell only other confirmed breeding records came from Cornets End where a female with a brood of two was seen on June 5th and Sandwell Valley where a brood of five were seen. Elsewhere, birds were observed during the breeding season at Berkswell, Mercote Mill and Meriden. Away from tabulated sites small numbers were seen at Alexander Stadium, Babbs Mill, Clayhanger Marsh, Edgbaston Pool, Fens Pools LNR, , Marston Green, Olton Mere, , Queslett NR, Saltwells LNR and Witton Lakes.

Eurasian Wigeon Mareca penelope Common winter visitor, scarce in summer. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 7 88 4 1 - - - - 3 11 - 6 Brandon 100 77 75 - - - - 3 32 223 169 54 Draycote 140 63 115 4 - - - 3 11 42 80 68 Kingsbury WP 132 p p p - 5 4 - 3 141 235 200 Ladywalk NR 250 150 300 20 4 - - 2 10 100 76 46 Salford Priors GP 9 1 12 - - - - - 30 15 31 15 Worcestershire Bittell Reservoirs 12 3 ------18 25 80 85 Bredon’s Hardwick 177 1 700 ------60 Camp Lane Pits 150 150 145 20 - - - 3 8 70 60 200 Clifton Pits 62 70 28 - - - - - 8 40 43 44 Croome River 15 ------1 - 36 - Hill Court Farm 220 185 50 20 - - - 7 15 36 49 85 John Bennett NR 110 273 295 6 - - - - 1 25 175 125 Kemerton Lake 200 262 476 10 2 - - - 2 20 74 22 Lower Moor\Wick Wetlands 22 18 25 - - - - 4 6 9 8 12 Ripple Pits 500 511 942 200 - - - - 27 300 700 563 Sling Pool 2 - 20 ------2 Throckmorton Outer ------6 9 11 18 Lagoons Upton Warren 7741-4118623 Wagon Wheel Lane Pits 21 84 15 ------100 300+

35 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Westwood Pool 12 11 1 - - - - - 7 7 8 23 Wood Norton River 260 185 42 50 ------Meadows Staffordshire Alrewas 164 221 - 2 ------100 Aqualate Mere 863 1096 302 181 - - - 2 5 61 128 607 Belvide Res 236 84 97 8 4 2 4 15 45 261 331 281 Blithfield Res 600 744 290 40 - - - 5 50 230 300 250 Branston GP 61 23 37 6 2 - 1 1 65 57 74 51 Branston WP 35 ------100 130 9 Chasewater Res 61 52 56 2 - - - - 3 25 44 56 Fisherwick + Elford North 270 14 13 ------16 49 18 Pit Middleton Lakes 15 100 - - 1 2 - 3 70 100 200 - Radford Meadows 450 434 542 65 - - - - 9 76 175 480 River Sow Meadows 300 189 150 - - - - - 4 56 57 105 Whitemoor Haye 416 374 188 11 1 - 1 - 14 54 222 171 West Midlands Goscote Valley 53 47 50 13 ------12 Marsh Lane NR 307 370 354 34 1 1 1 5 30 192 310 373 Sandwell Valley 29 16 25 - - - - - 6 25 26 p Edgbaston Pool 2 2 ------4 32 56 p

Warks It was a better year than 2017, with improved numbers at Brandon, Draycote and Ladywalk NR. In addition to those listed above, further sightings between May and August consisted of at least one at Packington Park on May 6th and one at Alvecote Pools on 15th. Maxima elsewhere included 42 at Hodnell Pool on January 6th, 34 at Haselor on March 9th, 32 at on 13th, 40 at Coton Lakes on October 28th, 35 at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on November 22nd, 115 at Alvecote Pools on 28th, 47 at Whitacre Heath NR on 29th and 205 at Dairy Farm on December 23rd. Smaller parties of 20 or under were reported from: Bedworth Slough, Charlecote, Compton Verney, Dunsmore Heath, Earlswood Lakes, Lighthorne Quarry, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Ryton Pools CP, Saxon Mill - Warwick and Shustoke Res. Worcs The few counts away from the tabulated localities comprised seven at Pershore - Avon Meadows on January 11th, one at Arrow Valley Lake on 12th, one at Walton Pool on 14th, one at Blackstone on February 11th, 70 at Gwen Finch Wetland on March 3rd, 92 at Eckington Meadows on 9th and 27th and two flew over Stanford on Teme on 26th. A pair was noted at Eckington Meadows on April 18th, whilst during the second winter period, two were at Arrow Valley Lake on October 19th, three at Pirton Pool on 28th and one at Pershore - Avon Meadows on November 8th. Staffs A further 41 sites were visited during the year, the best being 700 at Barton GP on December 26th, 100 at Walton Bridge on January 16th and 100 at Clay Mills on January 28th. W Mid A male with a damaged wing was present at Marsh Lane NR throughout the summer. Away from tabulated sites 13 at Clayhanger Marsh on January 11th, eight at Alexander Stadium on March 5th (with seven there on December 1st), five at Brookvale Park on 14th and at Highfields Park, two flocks were picked up on call overnight on March 22nd. In the final quarter, singles were seen on two dates in October at Bartley Res, with further singles at Rushall Canal - Walsall, Sutton Park NNR and at Witton Lakes, where a notable seven were seen on October 5th. Three were at Olton Mere on December 12th.

36 American Wigeon Mareca americana Very rare vagrant (3/10). Worcs The Grimley female from 2017 remained at Camp Lane Pits until January 4th many observers, then returned for its third winter on November 19th to Wagon Wheel Lane Pits BRS et al. It remained loyal to Wagon Wheel Pits until 26th, went missing for a few days, then relocated to Camp Lane Pits on December 1st, where it favoured to the year’s end, though visited Wagon Wheel Pits again on December 20th, 29th and 30th.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 59 42 47 25 33 62 105 176 122 119 66 82 Compton Verney - 35 - - - - 50 - - - 45 60 Dairy Farm - - - - 5 7 - 70 63 111 75 81 Draycote p 100 p 16 p p p - 103 145 260 p Earlswood Lakes 57 22 118 18 44 95 142 100 77 90 325 100 Farnborough Park 100 65 36 30 18 32 33 30 50 120 70 135 Kingsbury WP 38 2 p p 40 216 170 - 94 100 120 107 Ladywalk NR 223 45 67 60 20 113 148 p 40 350 73 159 Morton Bagot 30 10 10 6 20 12 10 21 25 12 20 28 Napton Res 200 140 5 18 15 16 - 41 205 210 30 30 Salford Priors GP 360 310 120 80 111 215 285 380 350 250 285 420 Whittleford Park 6 - 13 11 8 20 28 10 12 20 9 - Wormleighton Res 70 22 25 10 6 - 11 36 35 22 35 20 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 32 28 25 12 45 37 29 45 40 33 45 60 Avon Meadows 88 22 22 27 20 23 27 17 16 16 52 46 Beckford NR 4 12 4 8 - 11 - 5 24 36 31 Beckford NR 4 12 - 4 - - - - 5 24 36 31 Bevere Loch – Diglis Lock, 7 - 67 63 45 - 58 - 189 180 162 180 River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 65 26 15 12 33 18 60 122 91 204 280 309 Blackstone - 6 - 6 5 - 26 - - - - - Brake Mill Pool 50 - 32 18 15 - - 40 30 40 36 - Bredon’s Hardwick 111 15 22 38 14 ------Broadway Gravel Pit 12 7 5 8 ------Camp Lane Pits 130 - 31 36 40 71 61 65 48 60 72 61 Churchill 3 - 4 6 4 - - 12 15 18 24 - Clifton Pits 12 30 13 26 15 2 41 26 14 32 22 30 Cofton Res --657------Croome Landscape Park - - - 8 - 51 - 90 50 80 76 50 Grimley Old Workings ------60 6 5 6 2 Gwen Finch Wetland 62 35 21 6 9 - - - 29 - 126 101 Hill Court Farm 15 - 12 ------Hunnington Farm and 3776------Fishery Ipsley Alders -463------John Bennett NR 25 21 15 18 26 20 81 125 88 145 48 135

37 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Kemerton Lake 28 32 10 9 18 39 46 212 22 16 65 38 Lickhill Quarry - 30 20 13 48 45 25 - - - - - Lower Park Farm Fisheries - 2 8 5 14 6 7 2 - - - - Pirton Pool 26 15 - 9 7 - - 79 - 49 - 55 Ripple Pits 23 51 7 14 13 19 5 32 11 124 42 55 Sling Pool - 5 ------10 20 Stanford Lake 487 21 19 48 ------Trimpley Res & River Severn 131 67 - 15 24 33 93 117 147 97 133 97 Upton Warren 100 20 15 31 56 184 185 360 63 54 165 64 Walton Pool 9 6 - 4 - - - - 20 16 4 - Westwood Pool 12 8 40 4 5 24 61 25 42 75 140 80 Wilden Marsh 29 7 10 ------6 - Wythall Park 6 31 9 8 9 12 12 17 12 23 11 8 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 27 10 33 14 30 46 449 281 58 42 22 141 Bateswood CP 71 50 156 p p 55 50 70 - 100 - 54 Belvide Res 30 91 35 25 56 27 193 224 400 192 200 230 Blithfield Res 275 - 36 74 167 202 240 570 314 473 297 369 Brookleys Lake 543 33 ------183 255 261 Chasewater Res 110 103 102 49 78 113 101 182 264 226 98 189 Coal Brook - Hales 31 22 25 19 19 15 26 87 37 17 49 129 Copmere 43 10 3 - 4 106 242 260 151 220 46 51 Doxey Marshes 107 62 28 41 120 116 164 166 138 167 50 109 Lichfield - Stowe Pool 141 134 75 51 55 128 66 242 157 87 103 85 Middleton Lakes 22 - - - 5 55 50 - 5 50 100 - Radford Meadows 250 10 25 10 - - - 80 120 300 28 75 Rudyard Lake 45 - - 24 32 130 201 182 150 129 40 60 Trentham Gardens 176 177 144 - - 30 81 90 64 161 207 268 Uttoxeter Quarry 22 19 15 18 72 74 55 233 92 136 245 69 West Midlands Bartley Res 20 5 13 9 27 13 20 14 21 16 16 22 Cannon Hill Park 53 51 54 24 28 80 143 p p p 36 p Elmdon Park 71 74 - 42 28 60 79 77 - 74 83 82 Fens Pools LNR 24 13 15 12 13 5 26 13 16 30 17 22 Marsh Lane NR 26 17 12 9 19 17 59 138 42 30 16 23 Merecroft Pool LNR 6 12 9 4 4 5 30 22 8 6 1 11 Olton Mere 35 - - 18 17 8 81 79 87 65 30 42 Parkes Hall Res 12 6 11 6 5 8 14 9 - - - 8 Park Lime Pits 22 10 13 10 8 7 6 6 13 10 11 14 Saltwells LNR 18 19 8 23 6 4 8 46 2 30 38 23 Sandwell Valley 30 p 38 15 15 15 p p 30 76 12 40 Sutton Park NNR 150 179 151 103 83 111 139 166 154 147 173 153 The Leasowes 34 35 25 12 16 33 p 54 39 38 42 p Trittiford Mill Pool 95 44 49 33 95 52 75 76 75 105 87 67 Wychall Res 9 9 4 6 3 10 8 3 3 p 4 2

Warks Counts of two or more nests or broods included: Abbey Fields (two), Brandon (16), Baddesley Clinton (three), Compton Verney (two), Earlswood Lakes (two), Farnborough Park (three), (two), Hillmorton (two), village ponds (two), Kingsbury WP north (six), Ladywalk NR (many), Long Lawford (two), Middleton Lakes (12), Salford Priors

38 GP (19) and Wormleighton (three). Substantial counts from non-tabulated sites included 75 at Chesterton Pools on September 22nd, 800 at Broadwater, Forest of Arden GC on 25th, 100 at Shustoke Res on October 11th, 65 at Stubbs Pool (Nuneaton) on November 25th and 450 at Abbots Salford on December 30th. Worcs Breeding data received comprised 22 ducklings at Spetchley Park on May 6th, two broods at Lower Park Farm Fisheries on 31st, a female with five chicks at Spetchley Park on June 15th, six broods were noted at the Moors Pool, Upton Warren and at least eight broods at Ripple Pits. Counts above ten away from the table comprised 20 at Bewdley on January 20th and February 18th, 11 at Stanford on Teme on February 2nd, 25 at Marsh and 18 at Lower Moor on 18th, 15 at Stanford on Teme on March 4th and 44 at Lickey Hills on 7th. Up to 20 were noted along the Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on April 20th, 15 at Bodenham Arboretum on 26th, 25 at Golden Valley Lake on May 1st and 20 at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on June 29th. During the second winter period, Bewdley held 34 on October 1st, 60 were at Lower Moor on November 11th, 112 at Throckmorton Tip on 26th, whilst in December Stakenbridge Lane Pool held 20, then 60 on 1st and 15th respectively, 60 were seen at Caunsall Marsh on 7th and 27 at Bodenham Arboretum on 23rd. Staffs A total of 36 sites held birds that were either confirmed or probable breeding pairs (39 last year). Other sites with treble-figure counts were 200 at Branston GP in November with 100 there in September, 115 at Hill Ridware in October and 104 at Whitmore - Bent Lane in February. W Mid Very small numbers of breeding birds were recorded as follows (single broods with others as noted): Alexander Stadium, Bartley Res, Berkswell, Brookvale Park, Cannon Hill Park, Coombeswood Wedge, Coundon Wedge, Eastcote, Fens Pools LNR, Kingfisher CP, Kinghurst, Marsh Lane NR (four), Marston Green, Old GC (Walsall), Parkes Hall Res, Park Lime Pits, Perry Hall Park, Red House Park, Rowheath Pavilion, Rushall Canal (Walsall), Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Junction, Sutton Park NNR, Swanshurst Park, The Leasowes, Trittiford Mill Pool (three), Valley Parkway, Walsall Arboretum, West Park, Winterbourne Gardens, Witton Lakes, Wychall Res and Wyken Croft. Away from the tabulated sites, notable counts of over 50 were as follows: 63 at Haden Hill Park on January 25th, 50 at Marston Green on 28th, 80 at Edgbaston Res on February 23rd, 50 at Mesty Croft on March 21st, 68 at Swanshurst Park on June 9th, 50 at Stourbridge Canal Arm on August 6th and 50 at Plantsbrook NR and 60 at on November 27th.

Pintail Anas acuta Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant, rare in summer. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 2-2-----111- Coton/Lea Marston -2------2211 Draycote ------15121 Ladywalk NR 722--1-1-121 Worcestershire Bittell Reservoirs ------1432 Bredon’s Hardwick 2-3------Camp Lane Pits 3------2311 Clifton Pits 17 2 10 ------1 2 1 Longdon Marsh 50 - 33 12 ------Ripple Pits 16 2 4 - - - - - 2 2 2 11 Wagon Wheel Lane Pits 2 - 3 - - - - - 2 - - 1

39 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 5------32-6 Belvide Res 2 11 21 2 - - 6 3 8 5 2 8 Blithfield Res 1------53-- Branston GP - - 2 - - - - 1 12 6 2 1 Doxey Marshes 12------31-- Middleton Lakes 855-----5511 Radford Meadows 1-1------5 West Midlands Sandwell Valley 322------111

Warks A female at Ladywalk NR on June 21st was an unusual date for this species. Other records were more typical and came from 11 sites, with the highest count away from tabulated sites four at Alvecote Pools on March 17th. Sporadic sightings of one or two birds were made at: Abbots Salford, Dairy Farm, Earlswood Lakes, Kingsbury WP, Kinwarton and Salford Priors GP. Worcs During the first winter period, three records received away from the tabulated localities, with 28 at Westwood Pool on January 16th, two at Sling Pool on February 18th and 11 at Westwood Pool on 28th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised a drake at Upton Warren on September 1st and from 9th–14th, drakes at Kemerton Lake on 29th, October 9th, 20th, 26th, 27th and 30th, a female at Westwood Pool on November 17th and a female at Upton Warren on December 30th. Staffs A good number of additional records particularly in the second winter period, comprised one at Whitemoor Haye on January 6th, two at Bobbington on March 19th, one at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool on 20th, one at Westport Lake on September 5th, one at Ford Green NR from 6th–8th, three at Knypersley Res on 29th, one at Rudyard Lake on 30th, one at Uttoxeter Quarry on October 7th with seven from 13th–14th and one on 21st, one at Brookleys Lake on 21st, two at Branston WP on November 5th and one on 30th, two at Dunstall Hall on 13th, two at Knypersley Res on December 9th and one at Tittesworth Res from 27th–28th. W Mid A pair was noted at Marsh Lane NR on February 4th followed by an impressive flock of 14 on February 19th (a new County record); the previous highest was ten in 2008, also at Marsh Lane NR. Elsewhere two birds were seen at Streetly on January 1st, with two at Edgbaston Pool on February 28th, a single at Sutton Park NNR between September 15th and October 6th and a female/immature at Olton Mere between October 5th and 17th.

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

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 16 12 10 - - - - 8 15 15 7 5 Bedworth Woodlands 22 25 20 15 1 - 1 - - - - 12 Brandon 85 146 107 18 5 14 34 82 128 191 173 116 Dairy Farm - - 10 - - - - 4 22 34 21 55 Draycote 60 105 74 2 - 4 - 6 9 26 130 120 Earlswood Lakes 5 1 2 1 - 1 - 28 39 70 52 30 Ladywalk NR 200 100 125 50 8 5 20 35 100 105 200 300 Lighthorne Quarry 30 14 33 - - - - - 1 11 33 12 Morton Bagot 86 60 62 10 2 1 8 23 51 52 27 18 Salford Priors GP 140 115 105 85 2 2 8 40 48 74 105 145

40 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake --2------22 Avon Meadows 7 7 8 - - - - 3 9 10 - 10 Beckford NR --3------4- Bittell Reservoirs 16 8 2 1 - - 1 - 13 86 180 166 Bredon’s Hardwick 51 - 31 - - - - 6 - - - - Camp Lane Pits 80 - 41 25 10 41 6 15 41 58 54 82 Clifton Pits 45 10 114 56 12 - - - 8 19 30 51 Grimley Old Workings - - 2 6 - - - - 2 2 2 - Gwen Finch Wetland 185 450 145 42 ------6 120 Hill Court Farm 1942 - 120 45 3 - - - - - 35 - John Bennett NR 140 180 72 36 2 4 4 10 72 120 495 220 Kemerton Lake 36 89 36 17 - - 5 44 110 118 120 95 Lower Moor/Wick Wetland 120 65 120 42 - - - 2 45 62 72 155 Pirton Pool 2 ------1 - 16 - 6 Ripple Pits 112 324 176 170 2 - 1 7 92 53 71 409 Sling Pool 10 45 45 - - 1 - - - - 18 85 Upton Warren 108 100 95 31 3 19 14 35 55 80 118 128 Westwood Pool 55 26 14 74 - - 3 10 14 24 1047 22 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 545 74 1 123 - - - 2 4 7 14 294 Belvide Res 305 77 43 44 4 40 49 93 192 260 383 242 Blithfield Res 300 150 10 9 - 10 22 63 117 300 250 600 Branston GP 200 230 180 50 2 24 46 190 180 244 252 482 Chasewater Res 14 9 13 - - - - 3 13 14 62 29 Coal Brook - Hales 97 97 79 8 - 12 3 25 75 68 31 150 Croxall Lakes 350 115 29 11 - - - 6 10 74 118 150 Doxey Marshes 186 159 128 76 4 - 13 43 68 120 97 226 Ingestre 14 52 7 34 ------23 - Middleton Lakes 11 20 - - 2 15 10 - 12 115 60 - Radford Meadows 400 300 250 200 - - - 10 109 176 83 365 River Sow Meadows 50 40 40 20 - - - - 17 40 16 30 Rudyard Lake 59 56 - 2 - - - - 4 45 60 84 Tittesworth Res 25 8 4 - - - - 6 4 23 19 54 Tucklesholme NR 54 80 84 - - 11 9 31 71 37 1 49 Uttoxeter Quarry 19 47 45 42 - 2 - 30 111 110 102 160 Whitemoor Haye 300 8 - 4 - - - 3 - - 52 - West Midlands Edgbaston Pool 8757----p--- Fens Pools LNR 7422----142- Goscote Valley 10 15 18 18 - - - - - 11 - 2 Kings Norton LNR 2p4p------p Marsh Lane NR 192 152 55 10 - 2 13 42 134 249 350 351 Olton Mere 441----1-233 Sandwell Valley 10 9 5 2 - - - - 14 32 21 14 Sutton Park NNR 3 2 - - - - - 4 16 18 12 1 Wychall Res 34 20 10 2 ------8 10

Warks Although a number of sites held birds during the nesting season, the only confirmed breeding record was a single pair at Middleton Lakes. The October count at Earlswood Lakes was a probable site high. Reports came from 43 locations, with maxima away from tabulated

41 sites of 58 at Haselor on January 2nd, 59 at Kingsbury WP on 22nd, 39 at Kinwarton on March 19th, 32 at Coton Lakes on 28th and 40 at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on November 30th. Worcs During the first winter period the largest counts away from the tabulated sites comprised 120 at Ashmoor Common on January 26th, 30 at Eckington Meadows on March 9th, 45 at Ryall Pits on 10th, 48 and 35 at Lickhill Quarry on 11th and 17th respectively and 27 at Eckington Meadows on 27th. Ten or less also reported from Hunnington Eurasian Teal, Draycote, Bob Hazell Farm and Fishery, Tardebigge Res and Wagon Wheel Lane Pits. In April Eckington Meadows held 74 on 10th, then 16 on 18th, a pair was at Ryall Pits on May 25th, whilst during the autumn and second winter period 10 were at Ashmoor Common on September 21st and three at Wilden Marsh on November 20th. Staffs Six pairs laid eggs at Doxey Marshes with five pairs successfully raising 17 young. The species was recorded in low numbers at 43 other sites other than 300 at Barton GP on December 26th. W Mid Numbers at Marsh Lane NR were down on recent years with no evidence of breeding. Birds were noted in small numbers at a further 23 locations.

Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis Rare vagrant (8/10). Staffs A well-watched drake was present at Radford Meadows from January 24th until February 2nd CDa.

Anas/Mareca Hybrids

American Wigeon x Staffs Last year’s presumed hybrid pair was seen again at Branston GP between July 29th and September 17th and again from December 21st until 28th.

Eurasian Teal x Green-winged Teal Warks The drake first found at Draycote on December 31st 2017 was seen intermittently up until March 7th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. Warks The only sightings came in the final two months of the year. The first arrival was a male at Draycote on November 4th, where it was joined by a second on 6th. A pair were present on 12th, and three on 27th, comprising a male and two females, was the highest number of the year. In the Tame Valley, most reports probably related to the same female. It first arrived at Kingsbury WP on 19th and remained until the end of December, also frequenting Middleton

42 Lakes on November 27th. A pair were at Ladywalk NR on 22nd with the female also on 27th and 28th. Worcs A female was at Ripple Pits on November 5th, two females at Clifton Pits and two at Westwood Pool on 6th, two drakes at Ripple Pits on December 13th and a drake visited both Pershore - Avon Meadows and Lower Moor on December 31st. Staffs Three were present at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool on January 2nd, singles at Tittesworth Res on April 8th and Uttoxeter Quarry from May 21st–24th, two drakes at Belvide Res on August 8th, eight at Branston GP on October 11th (including a leucistic bird), a pair at Chasewater Res on November 20th and a drake at Belvide Res on December 10th.

Common Pochard Aythya ferina Common winter visitor. Scarce and declining breeding species. Red-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 16 23 23 1 - - - - - 2 1 12 Brandon 231-2-----11 Coton/Lea Marston p 109 141 - - p - - 5 16 8 51 Draycote 3 6 5 - - 1 - 2 2 7 11 16 Kingsbury WP 51 22 p p - 1 2 - - 15 50 19 Ladywalk NR 14 6 8 p - - - - - 3 7 9 Napton Res 17 16 4 - - - - - 13 - - - Salford Priors GP 3 4 12 1 - - - 1 1 6 2 23 Shustoke Res 20 20 17 ------4 19 24 Worcestershire Bittell Reservoirs - 1 1 - - - 1 1 2 2 17 4 Bredon’s Hardwick 413------Camp Lane Pits 20 23 15 2 - - - 1 2 28 5 10 Clifton Pits --311---14-- John Bennett NR 23------1- Kemerton Lake 3 12 14 16 12 6 3 6 8 30 - - Ripple Pits 13 6 12 6 1 - 1 7 36 60 72 89 Throckmorton Outer Lagoons 12 14 16 4 - - - 4 7 10 26 31 Upton Warren 26 28 19 7 - 2 1 4 5 9 31 55 Westwood Pool 43 16 19 5 - - 3 - 2 44 82 90 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 95 36 39 5 - - 1 13 2 1 11 12 Belvide Res 84 27 62 25 29 4 16 17 37 101 106 46 Blithfield Res 17 25 9 - - - - 1 3 - - 8 Branston GP 12 20 12 3 2 7 16 17 59 86 92 92 Croxall Lakes 39 34 4 ------4 Gailey Res - 6 4 - - - 1 1 - 6 10 23 Middleton Lakes 5 4 2 2 4 - 4 - 1 10 12 14 Westport Lake 1 7 2 ------21 Whitemoor Haye 47 19 5 - - - - 2 5 8 57 18 West Midlands Fens Pools LNR 143-----1121 Marsh Lane NR 28 12 2 2 - - 2 1 - 12 8 7 Sandwell Valley 16 5 5 - - - 2 6 4 7 38 25 Sheepwash UP 10 6 ------

43 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Stubber’s Green 16 - 1 ------Sutton Park NNR 89--1--21--1

Warks It was a very poor year at Brandon, and disappointing numbers were also recorded at Draycote and Shustoke Res. At the latter two sites this may reflect a lack of counting. Small numbers were also noted at: Alvecote Pools, Coombe CP, Dosthill Lake, Earlswood Lakes, Middleton Lakes (18 at Fisher’s Mill on November 27th), Newbold Quarry Park, Ryton Pools CP, Seeswood Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Six pairs produced 24 young at Kemerton Lake, but just four young fledged. The only report away from the tabulated sites comprised 13 and 14 at Lower Moor on January 2nd and 6th respectively. Staffs Five pairs bred at Belvide Res (three, one and one in the past three year) producing 33 ducklings in total of which only three survived. Birds were seen at 19 other sites, the best being 30 at Barton GP on December 26th and 17 at Barton-under-Needwood on September 19th. W Mid There has been a downturn in numbers over the last few years and it remains to be seen if this trend will continue or if it is a temporary blip. Away from tabulated sites counts were poor with maxima of one at Berkswell, four at Brookvale Park, four at Clayhanger Marsh, eight at Edgbaston Pool, one at Elmdon Park, six at Hampton in Arden, two at Olton Mere, one at Queslett NR, six at Saltwells LNR, ten at Sheepwash UP, eight at Trittiford Mill Pool and eight at Witton Lakes.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 6 7 13 5 3 - 4 2 - - - 10 Brandon 25 49 44 33 27 20 20 17 6 13 22 17 Compton Verney - 12 ------16 10 Coton/Lea Marston p p 646 p - 30 p p 537 535 209 p Draycote 10 100 1 26 p 70 2 - 776 710 789 p Earlswood Lakes 16 14 20 23 15 18 18 17 30 21 30 12 Ladywalk NR 86 64 71 52 12 40 12 5 4 43 18 29 Napton Res 86 74 21 19 8 4 - 4 18 10 26 56 Salford Priors GP 65 87 102 80 99 79 95 70 71 45 43 64 Shustoke Res 250 p 124 p p 24 p 120 p 140 91 150 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 1 8 4 2 4 - - - - 1 - 10 Avon Meadows --6422-----1 Beckford NR 1 6 4 12 2 3 10 - 2 - - - Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, ------1112 River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 34 52 30 16 19 18 54 46 82 112 178 239 Bredon’s Hardwick 33 18 32 11 10 ------20 Camp Lane Pits 70 - 30 20 24 32 38 42 32 40 60 56 Clifton Pits 38 81 38 28 18 18 19 31 39 47 34 31 Cofton Res --542------Grimley Old Workings - - 2 - - 10 - - - 7 - - Gwen Finch Wetland 121------John Bennett NR 4 4 12 22 14 2 - - - 2 6 6

44 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Kemerton Lake 8 21 29 20 24 15 8 10 6 10 11 22 Lickhill Quarry - - 3 - 6 17 6 - - - - - Pirton Pool 4 - - 13 9 - - 2 - - - - Ripple Pits 45 61 68 88 47 43 34 49 253 289 67 71 Stanford Lake 1-82------Tardebigge Res 8 - 18 9 - - - - - 13 - - Throckmorton Lagoons 36 34 41 15 10 12 16 27 32 36 52 47 Trimpley Res & River Severn 22 - - - - - 8 2 2 6 7 11 Upton Warren 34 67 74 102 113 90 27 60 55 45 49 35 Walton Pool 21-8----21-- Westwood Pool 35 54 45 42 5 12 28 12 12 40 55 40 Wythall Park 4 2 3 5 2 9 10 10 - 1 2 3 Staffordshire Alrewas 30 56 3 24 - 4 5 57 51 - 36 24 Aqualate Mere 179 184 181 227 79 119 165 277 145 118 232 31 Barton under Needwood 21 - 109 - 8 19 - - 210 - - - Belvide Res 173 183 95 223 75 56 78 496 466 331 400 268 Blithfield Res 59 61 24 32 34 28 14 11 24 15 110 118 Borrowpit Lake 50 19 - 10 1 7 - - - 33 28 49 Branston GP - 24 114 129 118 85 10 327 361 220 - - Branston WP 50 - - - 10 3 31 32 - 66 - - Chasewater Res 226 176 106 49 20 48 167 92 361 651 344 293 Copmere 61 90 42 96 12 5 15 11 66 150 96 156

Fisherwick + Elford North Pit 42 39 57 36 11 10 13 21 9 - 3 13 Gailey Res 93 136 77 92 - 40 38 61 48 27 38 14 Middleton Lakes 9 12 - - 6 24 54 - 24 5 200 - Tittesworth Res 26 52 16 17 12 6 - 6 - - - 22 Uttoxeter Quarry 17 17 14 58 23 14 2 6 4 47 20 33 Whitemoor Haye 42 109 77 82 19 5 26 129 279 42 120 55 West Midlands Bartley Res 9 p 2 12 11 3 10 5 24 25 13 p Berkswell 4 10 20 34 49 10 - - - - 3 - Edgbaston Pool p 25 16 30 9 p 13 p p p p p Fens Pools LNR 104 94 50 20 7 7 14 38 79 95 128 98 Marsh Lane NR 23 40 54 102 147 93 37 40 37 9 11 20 Merecroft Pool LNR 9 12 13 9 3 1 3 6 9 1 1 8 Netherton Res 4 15 25 - - 4 - 1 3 7 11 18 Olton Mere 18 14 13 19 2 3 3 6 5 31 31 31 Sandwell Valley 70 22 44 34 10 35 40 35 18 86 67 31 Stubber’s Green 32 - 40 54 ------p Sutton Park NNR 64 57 53 31 11 11 2 14 35 31 33 38

Warks It was an excellent breeding season at both Brandon and Salford Priors GP, with 10 and at least 16 broods respectively. Other brood counts came from: Barnacle, Draycote, Earlswood Lakes (five), Kingsbury WP (three), Ladywalk NR (at least two), Middleton Lakes (17 pairs), Morton Bagot (three pairs), Shustoke Res (two) and Welford-on-Avon GC (two). Few significant counts were received away from tabulated sites, with highs of 21 at Charlecote on February 2nd, 20 at Seeswood Pool on 6th, 28 at Whitacre Waterworks on 17th and 100 at Kingsbury WP on May 6th and November 22nd. Noted to have declined significantly on waters in the south-east in recent years JJB.

45 Worcs During the breeding season, a pair nested at John Bennett NR producing two young, but both were predated by large gulls, five pairs with broods of two, four, five, seven and eight were noted at Kemerton Lake on July 18th, three broods of five, seven and eight noted at Throckmorton Lagoons on July 12th, a female with three juveniles at Tiddington Hall Farm Pool on August 7th, 14 broods at the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on 7th and three broods were recorded at Ripple Pits. Away from the table, 46 were reported at Finstall Park and six at Tufted Duck, Draycote, Bob Hazell Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on January 7th, four at Churchill on 14th, 12 at Lower Moor on February 18th, seven and nine at Sling Pool on March 24th and April 8th respectively, 30 along the Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on 20th, two at Croome Lake on September 30th and six at Sling Pool on November 29th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate Mere, Belvide Res, Branston GP, Branston WP, Doxey, Gailey Res, Gunstone, Knypersley Res, Middleton Lakes, Toadhole Bridge - Colwich, Trentham Gardens Lake and Uttoxeter Quarry and probably occurred at Bearda, Dimmingsdale, Meretown - Moss Pool, Norbury and Wyrley Hayes. W Mid Marsh Lane NR had a bumper breeding season with at least 30 broods (160+ ducklings) of these only about a third fledged, with Lesser Black-backed Gulls accounting for the majority of the fatalities. Elsewhere, breeding was noted at Bournville Lane Park, Fens Pools LNR, Merecroft Pool LNR and Witton Lakes. Birds were present at many sites during the summer and breeding may have taken place at some of these. Away from the tabulated sites the largest counts were 26 at Victoria Park on February 21st and c.60 in flight over Small Heath Park on July 1st.

Greater Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Rare in summer. Red-listed Worcs After last year’s bumper crop of birds, just a single juvenile at Ripple Pits from November 4th–17th was disappointing. Staffs There were very few records this year, commencing with two at Aqualate Mere on January 22nd with one remaining until 26th, five (three drakes) at Tittesworth Res on March 17th, a drake at Chasewater Res from March 22nd–27th, a female at Knypersley Res on August 11th and a juvenile at Chasewater Res on October 4th.

Aythya Hybrids

Common Pochard x Tufted Duck Warks A drake was at Coton Lakes on January 10th. W Mid One was present at Marsh Lane NR on April 8th and 12th.

46 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, principally in spring, late-summer and autumn. Red-listed

Common Scoter, Draycote, John Judge

Warks It was another productive year, with nine records in seven different months. Typically, the majority came from Draycote, although 24 on April 14th was the only report of more than one, and the biggest flock in the county since 31 also at Draycote in November 2012. The other sightings there comprised of a drake from February 5th–9th, singles on March 25th and April 8th, a drake again on May 8th and lastly another drake from November 19th–24th. Away from Draycote, a pair was at Shustoke Res on March 31st, three frequented Ladywalk NR on June 5th and a male was at Brandon on December 30th. Worcs A drake was found at the Moors Pool - Upton Warren on April 8th, two drakes and two ducks frequented Clifton Pits on May 26th, two were reported at Camp Lane Pits on 27th, a drake was at Westwood Pool on August 19th, and females at Clifton Pits on November 17th and December 5th. Staffs In a good year for sightings, a pair was seen at Aqualate Mere on January 22nd with one there on 26th. On March 25th Aqualate Mere again hosted a drake, three drakes and two ducks were at Belvide Res and six birds were at Blithfield Res. In April a female was at Chasewater Res on 9th and on 14th there were five drakes and three ducks at Belvide Res, two at Blithfield Res, three drakes and a duck at Chasewater Res and two at Tittesworth Res with a further pair at Blithfield Res on 17th. A duck lingered at Branston GP from June 19th–24th followed by another at Belvide Res on July 22nd. In August four drakes were at Blithfield Res on 7th, another at Belvide Res on 10th, a further four at Blithfield Res on 20th with a duck there on 26th. Belvide Res hosted a drake from October 7th–19th, then two were at Tittesworth Res on 27th with one remaining until 28th. A duck a Blithfield Res on November 19th was quickly followed by another at Chasewater Res on 20th. W Mid A single was seen at Clayhanger Marsh on March 19th, a drake at Bartley Res on April 8th CTh and at Marsh Lane NR, while a drake seen briefly in flight on December 31st was presumably the bird that had been at Brandon Marsh the previous day and at Earlswood the next day SMH.

47 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Rare winter visitor (8/10). Staffs The female present at Branston GP last year until mid-December, reappeared on February 9th and was occasionally seen up until March 24th. It then returned for the third winter in succession on October 20th, remaining on and off until December 26th. A different female was present at Barton GP between December 9th and 26th DAS.

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

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 424------612 Draycote 40 32 25 7 - - - - 1 4 40 35 Kingsbury WP 9 6 5 2 - - - - - 3 10 10 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake ------111 Camp Lane Pits 246------122 Clifton Pits ------53 Ripple Pits 123------35 Westwood Pool 2-1------2- Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 15 26 22 15 0 0 0 0 0 6 11 24 Barton GP - - 18 - 1 ------4 Belvide Res 74 75 80 55 2 0 0 0 1 40 46 57 Blithfield Res 6 6 4 8 0 0 0 1 0 11 30 40 Chasewater Res 39 27 30 7 0 0 0 0 0 11 8 22 Middleton Lakes 8 10 20 17 0 0 0 0 0 4 7 14 Whitemoor Haye 8 17 19 21 3 3 4 4 1 1 11 5 West Midlands Bartley Res 8 11 11 7 - - - - - 2 3 6 Sandwell Valley 454------22

Warks Away from the tabulated sites, 41 at Dosthill Lake on March 16th was the best count. The last record of the first winter period was four at Draycote on April 13th, with thefirst returning bird also present there on September 25th. A female and juvenile on Great Pool, Packington Park on November 8th and 9th was notable. Birds were also recorded at (maxima in brackets where known): Alvecote Pools (one), Coton Lakes (six), Earlswood Lakes (three), Ladywalk NR (two), Middleton Lakes, Ryton Pools CP, Salford Priors GP (two), Shustoke Res (three) and Whitacre Heath NR (six). Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, singles observed during the first winter period at Kemerton Lake on January 1st and 3rd, plus Hewell Grange on March 29th. Second winter period sightings comprised one at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on September 29th, one at Bevere Island on October 6th, two at Lower Bittell Res on 30th and one at Kemerton Lake on November 22nd. Staffs Numbers were generally lower than the past two years and Belvide Res was again host to the largest numbers. The last wintering bird was at Barton GP on May 26th other than the now regular summering birds at Whitemoor Haye which increased to four from two in previous years. Blithfield Res hosted the first returning bird which arrived on October 7th. A further 14 non-tabulated sites also held single-figure counts.

48 W Mid This species is scarce in the county away from the twin sites of Bartley Res and Sandwell Valley. Of interest, all but one of the Bartley Res records refer to females or immatures with just the one drake seen. Elsewhere, singles were at Netherton Res on October 26th and from November 21st–28th and at Edgbaston Res on December 8th.

Smew Mergellus albellus Uncommon winter visitor. Very rare in summer. Warks The steady decline reported in recent years came to a nadir in 2018. A drake at Brandon on December 28th was the sole record but did at least avoid the first blank year since 1975. Worcs Two eclipse drakes which arrived at Clifton Pits on November 13th AHo et al, stayed until 21st, then were relocated at Sling Pool, Grimley on 24th PEdw et al. By 22nd, both had moved to the small fishing pools opposite Sling Pool, returned to the latter locality on 26th, then back to the fishing pool from 27th–December 30th, though one wandered to Camp Lane Pits on December 13th and 29th, plus both visited Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on November 26th, December 24th, 25th, 27th, 28th and 29th and Camp Lane Pits on 16th. Finally, both relocated to Kemerton Lake on 31st DPe. Staffs Another poor year, with just one sighting of a redhead at Middleton Lakes on January 7th in the first winter period. In the second period, a redhead was at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool from November 21st until December 19th and another at Middleton Lakes on December 8th.

Goosander Mergus merganser Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare to uncommon breeding bird. Green- listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Draycote 40 17 10 9 - - - - 1 7 17 52 Earlswood Lakes 2 13 22 3 ------19 9 Kingsbury WP 15 5 4 ------16 38 51 Ladywalk NR 21 14 10 12 15 37 3 5 7 9 12 9 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 225------14 Bewdley 38--1---42-- Bittell Reservoirs ------21 Bordesley Meadows Abbey GC 46------Brake Mill Pool 6 4 2 ------8 17 15 Camp Lane Pits 2 1------3-8 Clifton Pits -43------2- Stanford Lake 29 3 5 ------2 - - Stanford on Teme 4 2 3 - 6 - - - 12 - - - Trimpley Res & River Severn 14 20 - 2 - - - - 19 11 12 14 Upton Warren -1-----1-212 Wagon Wheel Lane Pits - - 2 ------1 5 Westwood Pool 122------1- Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 3 1 1 1 ------1 18 Belvide Res 42113-19-553 Biddulph Grange CP 27 7 5 ------3 13 20 Blithfield Res 40 29 2 2 - 2 1 16 4 28 - 4

49 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Branston GP 2 - 3 2 - - - 17 - 2 14 15 Chasewater Res 8 18 2 6 - - - - - 2 14 24 Dimmingsdale 1 ------16 3 Doxey Marshes 12 15 17 5 - - - - - 1 17 23 Knypersley Res 6 8 14 4 - - - - 3 2 - 10 Middleton Lakes 22 27 18 16 1 - 10 9 6 12 5 53 Radford Meadows 12 2 6 4 1 - - - - - 1 8 Rocester Pools 17 ------8 10 Rudyard Lake 12 14 ------1 - 7 10 Silverdale CP 5 3 13 ------8 15 Tameside NR 11 81------5 Tittesworth Res 984921--5-74 Uttoxeter Quarry 11 7 3 6 7 1 13 9 18 16 8 5 Whitemoor Haye 8 19 6 7 - - - - - 1 6 2 West Midlands Bartley Res 632------1-2 Elmdon Park 6 4 7 4 - - - - - 18 10 13 Marsh Lane NR 14 12 11 7 2 1 - - 1 - 6 30 Merecroft Pool LNR 12 8 3 1 ------Netherton Res 231------1-- Olton Mere 4 ------2 16 20 Sandwell Valley 42 19 20 24 3 - - 1 6 62 70 40 Sutton Park NNR 3 11 8 1 - - - - - 1 1 14

Warks Four pairs bred at Ladywalk NR, with 37 ducklings counted in May and June. Away from the tabulated sites, birds were recorded at a further 18 sites during the first winter period, although all counts were in single figures. At smaller waters, reports included three at Bedworth Slough from January 2nd–4th, five at Hodnell Pool and three on a small pool at nearby Chapel Ascote both on 6th, and up to three at Farnborough Park from early February until March 14th. At the end of the year, a site record 39 were on the lake at Packwood House at dusk on December 10th and 34 were counted at Coton Lakes on 29th. An unusual record was four flying low to the south east over Pleasance Farm - Kenilworth on November 6th. Worcs No breeding reports received this year. First winter period sightings away from the table comprised two at Pershore - Avon Meadows on January 4th, one at Tardebigge Res on 12th, 27 at Kyre Pool on 25th, one at Wythall Park on February 7th, two at Throckmorton Outer Lagoons on 9th, four at Sling Pool on 25th, two at Caunsall on 27th and two at the Knapp and Papermill on March 26th. Visible migration observations at Stanford on Teme from March 1st – 5th produced a count of 106 birds, all heading north. A pair flew over Salwarpe Church on April 24th, one at Blackstone on May 13th and one on the River Teme at Shelsley Beauchamp on September 15th, whilst during the second winter period, singles were at Ripple Pits on November 17th and 24th, 12 at Goosander, Draycote, Bob Hazell

50 Stakenbridge Lane Pool on December 1st, four at Kyre Pool on 7th, 12 at Sling Pool on 10th, eight at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on 15th, one at Sling Pool on 19th, two and four at Bevere Island on 22nd and 31st respectively, plus one over Redditch - Winyates East on 26th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Coton in the Clay, Ingestre, Middleton Lakes, National Memorial Arboretum, Tittesworth Res and Wettonmill. The only non-tabulated double-figure counts were 20 at Barton GP on December 26th, 20 at Hales Hall Pool on November 8th, 18 at Sharpley Heath on December 9th, 14 at Consall CP on December 26th and 10 at Gailey Res on August 11th. The species was reported in single figures from a further 44 locations. W Mid This species is now frequently to be encountered on the quieter stretches of the regions canal network, no doubt in response to the ready availability of fish. Sandwell Valley continues to be the county stronghold with birds frustratingly seen during the summer months but with no sign of breeding. Away from tabulated sites birds were recorded at a further 24 locations. The largest count was 23 at Priory Mill Pool on December 29th.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in Staffs in 1994. Green-listed Warks It was a good year at Draycote. The first arrival was a party of three comprising two drakes and a duck on March 3rd, lingering to 6th TMa, JFCJ, TdeC. In April two were present on 8th RCM, a male paid a brief visit on 13th TMa, another group of three arrived on 14th RCM and lastly a singleton was there on 22nd RCM. In the second winter period, two males in post breeding moult were present on November 7th TMa, BHaz. The last of the year was a roving individual first recorded at Earlswood Lakes on December 8th JOa, and then on the main lake at Packwood House on 10th ARD. Also seen in neighbouring West Mids, its sex caused some debate but was eventually considered most likely to be a first-winter male. Worcs A female was a great and unexpected find on the River Severn in Worcester City Centre on May 2nd AHo et al, whilst Ripple Pits held a female from November 4th–6th SLo et al. Staffs A female was present at Doxey Marshes on November 26th MDB, PDy. W Mid A first-winter male arrived at Marsh Lane NR at dusk on December 10th in the company of a party of Goosanders; it then remained on site until the year’s end but often went missing during the day. This was only the second record for the Reserve with the first, a juvenile/female in November 1999 MSi. 2017 Erratum Warks The female on November 16th was at Wormleighton Res, not Napton Res as stated, and was a site first JJB.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Now a rare resident of feral origin. Subject of an eradication scheme. Staffs Females were present at two sites during the year (site and observers withheld).

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Uncommon and declining resident on the North Staffs Moors. Amber-listed Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Orchard Common and Readyleech Green and further breeding season sightings were noted at Blackclough, Drystone Edge, Gradbach Hill East, Knotbury, Round Knowl Farm, Sniddles and Swallow Moss. Others records from the winter periods came from The Roaches, Turn Edge and Wolf Edge. The highest count was of 14 birds at Orchard Common in December.

51 Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks The population was again estimated at Salford Priors GP throughout the year, where large numbers are turned down in the local area for the Ragley shoot. Numbers were as follows:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 170 50 430 200 30 30 40 500 900 700 300 280

The best counts elsewhere were 44 at Wormleighton Res on October 10th and 30 at Over Whitacre on December 2nd. The sole breeding report was a pair with seven chicks near Lower Tysoe on July 16th. Worcs Reports were received from 28 sites (22 in 2017). Breeding was confirmed at Lower Park, Spetchley Park with an adult and eight young on June 15th and at with an adult and four young on July 20th. Two were present in a Little Comberton garden on April 8th. Double-figure counts came from Timberhonger with ten on August 25th, Westwood Pool with 11 on September 10th and 15 on October 25th and at Grimley with 14 on November 22nd. At Bevere, where captive-breeding occurs, 58 were present on November 17th. Staffs A total of 18 sites held birds during the breeding season, confirmed only at Cawarden Springs Farm. The best counts were 20 at Whitmore - Bent Lane in November and 12 at Oaklands Farm in January, as with last year perhaps suggesting fewer captive releases. W Mid An average year with records from 14 locations consisting mainly of singles. Only Berkswell held birds consistently with a best count of 18 on October 24th. Star Farm - recorded five on December 4th and was the next highest count. A pair were noted on the cricket pitch at Marston Green in June and one was seen between the Pet Cemetery and the Maize field in the Sandwell Valley on December 4th. Of interest was a record of a bird frequenting a Bournville garden on April 3rd, it was noted seeing off the local Magpies and squirrels for 30 minutes!

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Scarce to common resident. Red-listed Warks Birds were reported from 20 sites, with records in the breeding season (one or two birds unless stated) coming from Astley (five), Barton-on-the-Heath (five), Church Lawford, Honington, Ladywalk NR, Maxstoke, Warton, Wasperton and Wormleighton. At other times of the year covey sizes were small, the best counts nine at Wormleighton on January 27th, seven at Shustoke Res on September 29th and six at Wishaw on December 20th. Also noted occasionally at Brandon, Butler’s End (Packington), Charlecote, Coombe Fields, Coventry Airport, Farnborough, Ryton Pools CP, Wolston GP and Upper . Worcs Ten sites reported birds this year, the same number as in 2017. A covey of seven was at Pershore - Endon Hall on January 2nd with six at Himbleton on February 1st. Birds were present at Bunkers Hill South on February 16th and at Rowney Green on April 5th. Pairs were at Sinton on April 24th, at Kemerton Lake NR on May 17th and at both Lower Park and Wick from April to June with probable released stock at Bevere Island on April 21st. In the autumn, a pair was found at Old Turnpike Road, Crowle on October 26th. Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Pairs 8(1) 0 2-3 5 0 7 0 1 11 3 0-3 4 5 3 3 (successful) (2) (2) (2) (2) (0) (0) (1) (1) (3) (0) Breeding - - - 20 16 14 19 9 16 8 7 9 9 5 3 Sites

52 The only birds seen in the breeding season were at Cockley Woods, Norbury and Whitemoor Haye, none of which were confirmed as breeding. The best counts during the year, from a total of 14 sites (as last year) were 12 at Whitemoor Haye in late July, 19 there in November and 11 in December. W Mid This species continues to decline, ten years ago it was recorded at five sites in the county, whilst 20 years ago it was recorded at 11 sites. The only records this year were from the area north-east of Minworth, adjacent to the Warwickshire border. Birds were present throughout the year and were thought to have bred but unfortunately the area is now under threat of development.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer visitor in fluctuating numbers, but usually scarce. Amber-listed

Long-term average: May 14th (31) to August 20th (26) 8-year average: May 15th (1 day later) to August 16th (4 days earlier) First arrival: May 11th; Onecote Moor (Staffs) Last departure: Early August; Stoneton (Warks)

Warks A very poor year. One flushed by a farmer while harvesting wheat at Stoneton in the first week in August, was in a location where birds have been present in several recent yearsper JJB. Staffs One was calling at Onecote Moor on May 11th MGA and a pair was flushed at Aqualate Mere on June 9th KDH, RWSw. W Mid One was heard at County Lane - Stourbridge on July 11th JLi was the first record since a bird at Clayhanger Marsh in 2012.

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Warks The largest counts were 150 newly-released birds at Combrook on July 22nd, 250 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th and c.100 at Ragley Fields on 29th. Worcs The male melanistic bird near Broadway Gravel Pits in December 2017 was again present in January and March this year with another found at Eckington Meadows. At least 40 were in the fields around Arley Wood on March 24th with ten at Swinyard Hill on the 27th and April 6th with 11 on the 18th. Lickhill Quarry had 13 on April 14th with ten at Ripple Pits on September 1st, at Pershore - Avon Meadows on October 18th and at Martley Nubbins on the 31st. In November, 30 were counted at John Bennett NR on the 11th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate Mere, Middleton Lakes, Readyleech Green and Wetley Moor and probably occurred at Churnet Valley NR (22 territories), Coombes Valley (17 territories) and Gibbetts Wood Quarry (four territories). Highest counts were 300 at Coal Brook - Hales on September 16th and 38 at Barton-under-Needwood on 19th. W Mid There was an increase this year with birds recorded at 41 sites, although most are birds released for shooting. At Marsh Lane NR a female with a well grown youngster was seen on August 10th and whilst birds are under-recorded, there were lower counts than in previous years. A count of 140 at Berkswell on October 5th was exceptional but these soon dispersed. The only other double-figure count was of 16 at Nailcote Hall on April 22nd and June 2nd. Many locations contained birds during the breeding season but there was no evidence of breeding.

53 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Rare winter visitor (5/10). Green-listed Warks A bird at Draycote on the afternoon of March 12th TdeC, TMa, was thought likely by the finders to be the same individual that had spent the previous ten days at Peterborough (Cambs), having departed there the same morning. This was the first record in the county since one at the same locality in the winter of 2008-09. W Mid A bird circled Forge Mill Pool - Sandwell Valley on October 30th, flying off to the north-west before briefly returning and then heading off to the southPMH .

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

Black throated Diver, Arrow Valley, Claire Workman

Worcs In January, one was found at Camp Lane Pits PHop in the morning of the 6th but unfortunately did not linger. A juvenile was found at Lower Bittell Res SHa in the late morning of December 22nd and after departing south, was relocated in the afternoon at Arrow Lake GHP, REH. This bird was very obliging, giving excellent views to the end of the year and into 2019.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Scarce winter visitor. Warks A probable juvenile was at Draycote on November 28th and 29th TMa. Worcs The juvenile found at Ripple Pits on December 31st 2017 AWa was still present at this location from January 1st to February 16th. Staffs A juvenile was present at Chasewater Res from January 5th–7th REv. W Mid A bird thought to be a first-winter was at Bartley Res on December 1st SHa. Unfortunately, it was not seen the next day.

54 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Draycote 12 20 p p - 1 p - 30 13 40 4 Ladywalk NR 13 20 5 8 9 4 6 8 7 18 2 5 Salford Priors GP 4 7 17 16 16 18 28 39 36 29 8 9 Shustoke Res 15 1 18 p - - - 30 21 70 15 20 Worcestershire Avon Meadows --1------32 Beckford NR 4164434-2441 Bittell Reservoirs 3 2 8 - - - 1 3 6 8 14 13 Camp Lane Pits 14 3 12 6 8 8 10 15 14 18 8 12 Clifton Pits 4 4 3 2 2 2 4 10 40 34 8 10 Grimley Old Workings - - - 2 - 2 - - 2 5 2 2 Kemerton Lake 14 12 11 12 8 8 10 18 27 21 18 20 Pirton Pool - - 2 2 2 - - 11 15 7 - 7 Ripple Pits 1151---14844 Sling Pool --23-2------Throckmorton Outer Lagoons 12 11 8 8 8 8 9 11 14 12 10 12 Upton Warren 6 3 10 10 10 10 18 24 27 9 7 6 Walton Pool 21------12-- Westwood Pool 10 12 14 4 - 2 10 12 6 14 8 4 Staffordshire Barton-under-Needwood - - 17 - 3 5 - - 43 - - - Belvide Res 1 1 2 4 4 4 4 27 17 9 2 - Branston GP 38 40 34 33 28 24 67 86 130 124 35 36 Chasewater Res 24 26 10 - 2 2 5 13 17 21 19 16 Gailey Res 11 12 8 - - - 2 1 3 11 14 5 River Sow Meadows 642-----553 11 Trentham Gardens 8 6 2 - 2 2 - - 3 10 5 8 Whitemoor Haye 28 1 - - - - 2 - 9 6 - 7 West Midlands Edgbaston Pool 1 4 6 10 1 p p p p p p p Fens Pools 111342p22143 Marsh Lane NR 2 2 5 6 10 10 10 10 9 8 4 3 Netherton Res 5 11 4 2 - - - 2 3 5 6 6 Sandwell Valley 7 12 8 2 2 4 2 8 10 14 2 Sutton Park NNR 4 4 1 3 2 2 10 10 6 8 3 3

Warks Confirmedbreeding pairs were located at: Barnacle, Brandon, Charlecote (two), Dairy Farm, Earlswood Lakes, , Kinwarton (two), Ladywalk NR (at least two), Lighthorne Pools (two), Lighthorne Quarry, Middleton Lakes (three), Napton Res (three), Salford Priors GP (nine), Shustoke Res and Welford-on-Avon GC. Outside the nesting season, the highest counts away from tabulated sites were 11 at Bubbenhall Meadow NR, 10 at Kingsbury WP and 20 at Lea Marston Lake. Worcs Reports of nesting came from Sling Pool, Kemerton Lake (four pairs), Pirton Pool (three pairs), Rous Lench, Throckmorton Outer Lagoons (one+ broods), Tiddington Hall Farm Pool and Upton Warren (six+ pairs), whilst two or three pairs were noted at Oakley Pool on April 18th. Away from the table, four were observed at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on January

55 6th, singles were noted at Cofton Res on 7th, Trimpley Res on 21st and Blackstone on February 11th, two at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on February 17th, two at Stanford Lake on March 5th, two at Lickey Hills on 7th, two at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 24th, one at Wythall Park on April 22nd and one at Cofton Res on May 1st. Singles noted at John Bennett NR on September 23rd, The Standbatches on October 2nd and Shelsley Kings on 23rd, Three were at Bevere Island on November 4th, seven at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 25th, two at Stakenbridge Lane Pool Little Grebes, Ladywalk, Peter Lichfield on December 1st and 15th and two at Bevere Island on 22nd and 28th. Staffs The count of 130 at Branston GP on September 25th is a new county record, beating last years’ count at the same site of 98. Breeding was confirmed at Baggeridge Wood, Belvide Res, Berry Hill, Branston GP (25 juveniles), Gunstone, I54, Kingwood Bank, Middleton Lakes and Sugnall. A total of 67 sites recorded sightings this year, compared with 53, 65, 75 and 65 the past four. W Mid Breeding was reported from Buckpool LNR, Edgbaston Pool (five pairs), Marsh Lane NR (five pairs), Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park NNR. Away from tabulated sites, birds were reported from a further 28 locations, many during the breeding season.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Rare winter visitor and passage migrant (9/10). Warks One was at Draycote on February 16th BHaz. Staffs Birds were seen at Branston GP from April 24th–28th JWo and at Belvide Res from December 16th until the year’s end SNu.

2017 Addendum W Mid Rather unexpectedly a bird in summer-plumage was discovered at Olton Mere on May 26th ARD. Needless to say, it was a first for the location and the first in the county since the bird at Bartley Res in 2011.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 2522411339p3 Draycote p 30 p 16 17 30 p 20 147 73 60 p Earlswood Lakes 21 45 38 26 18 7 6 6 5 7 17 5 Kingsbury WP 31 p p p 2 p 12 - 38 62 54 55 Napton Res 7 9 10 7 6 - - 14 13 6 4 4 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 14 10 20 13 12 11 8 8 8 20 15 13

56 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Bittell Reservoirs 15 23 10 10 7 5 8 14 12 15 17 9 Bredon’s Hardwick 1 - 2 4 10 ------Camp Lane Pits 2 3 2 6 6 5 4 6 5 15 8 14 Clifton Pits -16884666644 Cofton Res --121------Finstall Park 2------63 Grimley Old Workings - - 1 2 - 1 - - - 1 - - Kemerton Lake --54444---1- Ripple Pits 5 1 3 16 15 10 8 8 9 5 4 6 Trimpley Res & River Severn 4 3 6 5 2 2 2 4 - 2 - - Upton Warren 10 12 18 8 6 5 7 11 13 10 7 7 Westwood Pool 10 10 16 32 28 30 24 24 24 20 11 11 Staffordshire Alrewas 7 10 - 8 - 11 2 11 20 - - - Aqualate Res 3 5 13 19 29 26 46 53 57 18 7 1 Belvide Res 3 10 9 10 14 13 18 19 21 25 15 10 Blithfield Res 23 64 141 19 77 201 150 168 118 67 55 97 Branston GP - - 19 20 20 21 26 20 18 17 4 3 Chasewater Res 45 17 16 22 19 21 22 20 20 26 16 18 Croxall Lakes 4 6 4 7 6 - 19 11 10 6 4 2 Doxey Marshes 2 2 8 8 13 10 13 12 14 10 2 - Gailey Res 6 9 5 5 - 10 14 27 29 18 17 18 Knypersley Res 4 7 14 10 10 16 16 10 - 5 2 2 Rudyard Lake 24 - - 15 7 9 2 1 6 6 10 20 Tittesworth Res 4 2 2 9 6 8 2 30 7 8 10 6 Trentham Gardens 6 6 6 - 4 8 7 5 10 13 12 12 Uttoxeter Quarry - 1 2 2 6 7 1 1 5 26 2 2 Westport Lake - 10 4 2 - 6 4 - - 12 18 18 Whitemoor Haye 7 8 6 6 9 3 1 19 12 25 12 8 West Midlands Bartley Res 17 16 18 14 29 23 13 4 3 7 5 2 Fens Pools 4 4 5 5 5 6 5 5 5 4 8 6 Marsh Lane NR 523454431134 Netherton Res 244642222522 Sandwell Valley 3 4 6 4 4 10 3 3 8 7 7 2 Sutton Park NNR 456687659442

Warks Confirmed or possible nesting pairs were present at (singles unless stated): Abbots Salford, Brandon (unsuccessful), Compton Verney (four), Earlswood Lakes (two), Ensors Pool, Kingsbury WP (at least three), Ladywalk NR (possibly three), Middleton Lakes (three, with eight chicks fledged), MOD , Napton Res (three pairs reared eight young), Seeswood Pool (three) and Wormleighton Res (failed with two attempts). Birds were reported from 32 sites, with one in May on the small reservoir at Potsford’s Dam Farm to the south west of Rugby a possible site first. Away from tabulated sites the best count was 55 at Lea Marston Lake on November 11th. Worcs Breeding reports comprised three nesting pairs at Arrow Valley Lake, two pairs at Kemerton Lake and Lower Moor Leisure Park, one pair at Throckmorton Outer Lagoons, a pair with five young were noted at Bittell Reservoirs, at Ripple Pits a pair on north lake fledged two young, but two nests failed on south lake and at Upton Warren two pairs fledged one and two young at the sailing lake, plus a pair fledged one on the Moors Pool. A few reports away from

57 the tabulated sites. Stanford Lake held two on February 2nd, one on 11th and four on 18th, two were noted at Larford Pool on 22nd, ten passage birds were recorded at Lower Moor Leisure Park on March 3rd, two at Stanford Lake on April 1st, one at Hewell Grange Lake on 5th, two at Sling Pool on 8th and 15th, eight along the Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on 20th and one at Bevere Island on November 4th. Staffs The largest Blithfield Res count of 201 compares with 356, 174, 272 and 481 in the past four years. Confirmed breeding was noted at 17 sites and suspected at one more, identical to last year. W Mid The only breeding information this year came from Marsh Lane NR where one pair managed to fail twice at the egg stage. Away from tabulated sites, birds were present during the breeding season at Brookvale Park, Clayhanger Marsh, Edgbaston Pool, Lifford Res, Olton Mere, Swanshurst Park, Trittiford Mill Pool, Walsall Arboretum and Witton Lakes.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Red-listed Warks A juvenile at Draycote on December 14th TMa, TdeC, JFCJ ensured it was a full house of grebes at the reservoir in 2018. Worcs The only 2018 county record was present all day at Redditch - Arrow Lake on March 8th MIs. Staffs A summer-plumaged bird was present at Branston GP on May 26th DAS, JWo and a winter- plumaged bird was at Blithfield Res from December 2nd–13th EHu, AMa. W Mid All records refer to Bartley Res which was host to a winter- Slavonian Grebe, Blithfield Res, Derek Lees plumaged bird on March 16th SPR et al. This was followed by an adult in breeding plumage on May 30th SPR et al, this bird remaining until June 2nd. Bartley Res has monopolised this species in recent years playing host to birds in 2010, 2014 and 2016. One has to go back to 2008 at Edgbaston Res to find a record from elsewhere.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor. Rare in winter. Amber-listed Warks A total of four records is fairly typical. The first was at Draycote on March 14th ABe, with a second making a slightly longer stay there from April 12th–14th BHaz. Both were in fine summer plumage. Later in the year, one was at Shustoke Res from August 9th–10th PAF, RWA and a juvenile was at Earlswood Lakes on September 17th JOa, JHS. Worcs 2018 was an excellent year for this species with four birds visiting three locations in the county. In February, a winter-plumaged bird was at Westwood Pool from February 22nd to the 28th WDu, MJI. A different bird was also found at Westwood Pool on March 8th WDu, GHP which stayed until the 16th acquiring some summer plumage. In August, a juvenile was on Tardebigge Res PLe, MLe on the 6th with possibly the same bird present on the 11th at Clifton

58 Pits AWa, AGib where it stayed until September 7th. A different juvenile was on the south lake at Ripple Pits on August 25th AWa, GHP and again on September 8th. Staffs There was no confirmed breeding this year, although two pairs were on territory and may have attempted. The first arrival was at Westport Lake from March 15th–16th. Belvide Res had the next one from April 4th–5th and this was joined by two more from 6th–13th with one then remaining until 16th. Another two arrived on June 1st until 4th with one of these lingering until 6th and the first returning bird was again at Belvide Res on July 9th with a juvenile on 20th. Aqualate Mere hosted singles on September 2nd, 9th and October 7th and 21st, Gailey Res a juvenile on September 15th, Branston GP a juvenile on 23rd and October 21st and the last was at Croxall Lakes on December 26th. W Mid After an absence of three years, on March 27th, four birds were found at Bartley Res TMH, MJI et al, two were in full-summer, one in near full-summer and the fourth in winter- plumage. They frequented the south-east corner of the reservoir but were absent the next morning.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Rare vagrant; escapes from collections occur (5/10). Worcs Two April sightings were made in the county in 2018. One circled over Cookley at 12:40pm on the 6th DCollins and the other was over Burlish Top on the 14th IMa. Staffs A zoo escape sporting a red ring was present at Whitemoor Haye from April 6th–7th and another without leg rings, probably a genuine wild bird, spent three hours at Church Eaton on April 19th JEd.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Rare vagrant (6/10). Worcs One was found at Upton Warren - Hen Pool on April 10th CLe. This bird was present until April 23rd visiting several areas in the reserve and adjacent fields and was probably the one found at Middleton Lakes on the 23rd. Staffs One was present at Middleton Lakes on April 23rd NDa and another at Doxey Marshes on May 7th MDB.

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (9/10). Amber-listed Warks There was a report of two flying over Birchmoor on June 2nd, but unfortunately no supporting details were submitted. One was at Ladywalk NR from 4th–6th many observers, before on the latter date it relocated the short distance to the Staffs section of Middleton Lakes. The last county record also came at Ladywalk, with one present briefly in October 2012. Staffs The bird at Ladywalk on June 6th flew off at 11.50 and arrived at Middleton Lakes ten minutes later, where it remained until12th Eurasian Spoonbill, Ladywalk, Peter Lichfield

59 GJM. Another was present at Blithfield from July 1st–4th, this being a Netherlands ringed bird GJM, MPR.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Amber-listed Warks The second winter period in 2017 had produced just three sightings, and there was only a small improvement in the first three months of 2018. An elusive individual at Brandon was seen on three dates in January BMVCT, and there were two and three reports respectively from Ladywalk NR and Middleton Lakes per CEH, RSPB. The only other record in the first half of the year was at Middleton Lakes on April 6th RSPB. In autumn, the first returning bird was at Brandon on the early date of September 22nd and was also seen the following day BMVCT. In the Tame Valley, one was at Middleton Lakes on October 22nd per CEH, followed by another at Ladywalk NR from 31st–November 1st SFr. These would prove to be the only records from the latter site during the second winter period, although birds were again noted at Middleton Lakes on 18th and December 11th per CEH. After only one sighting at Brandon in November, the year came to a close there with a good run of records of a single bird between December 4th and 24th BMVCT. The only report away from these usual haunts was one in flight at dusk on the former Purley Chase GC on November 15th JHar. Staffs There were very few records this year. A presumed wintering bird at Middleton Lakes was seen just three times between January 18th and April 4th, one was at Aqualate Mere on March 5th, one at Belvide Res on August 2nd, one at Branston WP late November and another wintering bird was seen three times at Middleton Lakes between August 9th and December 8th.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Rare, though increasing, visitor (8/10). Warks There were two one-day birds. The first was at Dairy Farm on September 12th SMH, followed by one in cattle pasture to the west of the Broomey Croft part of Kingsbury WP on November 8th SHa. Worcs One joined the Little Egret evening roost at Camp Lane Pits on September 8th BRS et al. and remained in the Grimley area until November 8th, favouring to feed during the day in cattle fields west of Wagon Wheel Lane Pits. Staffs Another sharp increase in birds in the county reflects the Cattle Egret, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot growing numbers nationally. Two roosted on and off at Clay Mills in the first two months of the yearRKe , DAS. In the autumn, one was present at Belvide Res on September 2nd SNu, NTa and another at Middleton Lakes on 9th, 13th and 20th SPi, SPA et al. After these, Doxey Marshes hosted one on October 17th onwards RRa, joined by a second bird on November 14th and both remaining until year end. Four birds arrived at Belvide Res on November 4th KAs, SNu and remained until 21st after which three remained until year-end, with two additional birds flying through on December 1st.

60 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 446765565554 Earlswood Lakes 22-221363331 Ladywalk NR 17 3 4 6 3 5 9 9 7 6 8 - Salford Priors GP 632533754645 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 448486243243 Avon Meadows 212122322223 Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, 1-1-2-2-2--2 River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 6 4 4 12 7 10 9 10 8 5 5 3 Blackstone -1-21------Brake Mill Pool --1-1--1---- Bredon’s Hardwick -11------Camp Lane Pits 3 3 3 4 4 6 1 5 4 10 3 6 Churchill ------111- Clifton Pits -2-1-2422421 Croome Landscape Park - - - 1 1 1 - - 1 - 1 3 Finstall Park 1--1-----2-1 Grimley old workings ------1-2211 Gwen Finch Wetland 432221124333 John Bennett NR 113221322521 Kemerton Lake -11-11112221 Ripple Pits 121112656321 Sling Pool 1143-2-----1 Trimpley Res & River Severn 1 1 - 1 2 1 1 1 - 1 2 1 Upton Warren 334237475443 Westwood Pool 3 3 1 2 1 3 4 2 8 7 9 10 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere - 6 1 4 3 12 5 4 2 4 2 5 Belvide Res 3 2 2 2 p 3 8 15 6 5 7 2 Blithfield Res 10 8 5 4 11 27 41 24 24 12 15 12 Chasewater Res 2--142854554 Croxall Lakes 5 4 2 - 2 - 3 - 2 7 2 - Doxey Marshes 8 7 5 5 14 10 8 8 10 8 5 8 Gailey Res 3 8 - - 10 9 6 - 5 4 5 - Middleton Lakes 14 12 12 20 15 4 6 2 1 2 6 3 Radford Meadows 2 5 6 5 10 - - 2 4 2 7 4 River Sow Meadows 57343-4-4229 Tittesworth Res - - 3 - 3 10 7 2 7 2 - - Trentham Gardens 10 10 18 - 17 16 19 - - 8 9 11 Uttoxeter Quarry - 1 - - 5 8 7 7 9 13 18 7 West Midlands Bartley Res 5 5 2 1 4 2 8 10 3 4 6 3 Berkswell 1 10 20 18 p p p p 2 4 5 5 Marsh Lane NR 322135565544

61 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Merecroft Pool LNR 333112211124 Olton Mere 8 - 9 14 12 - - 7 - 5 4 4 Sandwell Valley 3 14 19 28 28 50 6 3 3 3 3 2

Warks Counts of active nests were received from: Abbots Salford (at least four), Chesterton Wood (possibly one), Coombe CP (27; cf. 63 in 2008), Middleton Lakes (33, with 63 chicks fledged), MOD Kineton (two), Shotteswell (four or five), Shustoke Res and Sweet Knowle (heronry active but no count undertaken). A pair with four recently fledged young at Meon Vale on July 8th may have been locally bred. Outside the breeding season the highest counts were 17 at Ladywalk NR on January 8th and 16 at Abbots Salford on December 8th. A melanistic bird at Ladywalk NR on August 22nd may have been the same individual seen at Dairy Farm in August 2016. Worcs Breeding reports received comprised, three occupied nests at Arrow Valley Lake and six active nests, with 12+ close to fledging young at Wilden Marsh on June 16th. The largest counts away from the tabulated localities comprised four at Stanford Lake on January 7th, 23 in the Grimley area on 31st, six on flooded field at Upton-upon-Severn on April 14th, four along the Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on 20th, three at Lickhill Quarry on June 9th and four at Ford Farm and Droitwich GC on July 10th. Grey Heron, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot Singles or pairs also reported from 37 other sites. Staffs The nest counts this year were from Aqualate Mere (11), Bagot’s Park (nine), Belvide Res, Brookley’s Lake (two), Chasewater Res (two), Checkhill Mill (four), Cheddleton/Consall Valley (5–10), Gailey Res, Ingestre (three), Pendeford Mill NR (13) and Trentham Gardens (10). The only other double-figure count was 22 at Barton GP on December 26th. W Mid Breeding occurred at Berkswell (ten nests), Olton Mere (five nests) and Sandwell Valley (14 nests). Fledging success was unrecorded apart from at Olton Mere where six juveniles were seen in August. There was no evidence of breeding this year at Merecroft Pool LNR but birds were present during the breeding season. Away from tabulated sites birds were recorded at a further 82 locations across the county, many during the breeding season.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea Rare vagrant (1/10). Warks One at Brandon on May 4th was seen to fly out from reeds near Ted Jury HideBMVCT . It was the second record for the reserve in three years, following a juvenile in August 2016, and the fifth for the county.

62 Great White Egret Ardea alba Scarce though increasing visitor. Warks Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Alvecote Pools 2211-----223 Brandon 11231---11-1 Tame Valley 43211--11243

The success of this species continues. Although the wetland reserves in the north remain the favoured locations, it is now increasing elsewhere, although supporting details are sometimes lacking. In the Tame Valley, birds were present most the of the year, records coming from Coton Lakes, Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk NR, Middleton Lakes and Whitacre Heath NR. Perhaps the most reliable location to catch up with them was Middleton Lakes, where three to four were roosting in the heronry in January various observers. In the Great White Egrets, Blithfield Res, G.J. Mant second winter period, there were highs of two at Kingsbury WP on numerous dates in October and November ARD and two in flight at Ladywalk NR on October 8th and 25thSFr . A little further to the north east at Alvecote Pools, one or two were present fairly regularly outside the breeding season, with a high of three on December 3rd per CEH. Away from the north, Brandon had by far its best ever showing, and one on September 23rd had been ringed earlier in the year as a nestling at Ham Wall RSPB on the Somerset Levels BMVCT. Nearby, one flew over Dunsmore Heath on March 13th SDa and another was at Bretford on 31st and April 15th per Birdguides. In the south-east, a single bird was fishing at Farnborough Park on March 4th and then at nearby Wormleighton Res on 5thJJB . In mid-summer, there were unconfirmed reports of a bird flying over Salford Priors village on June 25th and at Draycote on July 24th. In the south-west, at least one was present occasionally at Abbots Salford and Salford Priors GP from October 29th to December 19th, JJB, NDu, CJL, with two different individuals in the area on at least December 9th JJB. Other records in the second winter period, all of singles, were at Walton Hall on October 30th and 31st per CEH, flying over Napton Res on November 5th per CEH, at Dairy Farm on 9th SMH and along the river at Welford-on-Avon on December 2nd DRi. Worcs Now a regular visitor to the county, being recorded in seven months of the year. Grimley held the first, with one over the village on March 5th, whilst one was at Ripple Pits from 22nd–28th. and a second bird flew over the River Avon and dropped onto Bredon’s Hardwick main lake on 23rd. One was at Westwood Pool on May 2nd, one at Tapenhall Pools on 13th, whilst during the autumn and second winter period, reports of singles came from Droitwich Community Wood on August 27th, and September 7th, Camp Lane Pits on 3rd, Croome River on 10th, over Hoo Road, at 8.00am and over Wagon Wheel Lane Pits at 8.50am, then at Camp Lane Pits on 29th, over Cookley on 30th and at the River Seven/Teme confluence in Worcester on October 10th. One returned to roost at Camp Lane Pits from 11th–14th. and was also seen at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 13th, flew over Bevere Island on 14th, plus over Grimley Old Workings on 16th. John Bennett NR held one on October 24th, whilst in November singles

63 reported from Ripple Pits on 5th, Lower Bittell Res from 6th–17th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 10th, 18th and 23rd, Kemerton Lake on 12th and Ripple Pits on 17th, 18th and 30th. December sightings comprised singles over Throckmorton Outer Lagoons and at the Moors Pool - Upton Warren on 2nd and over Upton Warren sailing lake on 3rd, on the Worcestershire side of the River Avon at Abbot’s Salford on 8th and finally north of the River Avon at on 28th. Staffs Numbers once again continue to increase in the county. In the first half of the year. birds were seen from New Year’s Day until the last at Radford Meadows on May 12th and then from July 13th at Middleton Lakes until year end. In the first half of the year, birds were seen at Barton GP, Baswich, Blake Hall Fishery, Blithfield Res, Branston GP, Cannock Chase - Milford, Clay Mills, Croxall Lakes, Doxey Marshes (two), Elford + Fisherwick North Pit (three), JCB South Lake (two), Middleton Lakes (four), Radford Meadows, River Sow Meadows, , Swallow’s Mere, Tixall Bridge, Uttoxeter Quarry, Walton Bridge and Whitemoor Haye. In the second half of the year records came from Alrewas GP, Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool (two), Aqualate Mere (two), Barton GP (11 - a county record), Belvide Res, Black Bank (five), Blithfield Res (three), Branston GP (two), Chasewater Res, Crossplains, Croxall Lakes, Doxey Marshes (two), Elford + Fisherwick North Pit, Elkstone, Little Haywood, Middleton Lakes (nine), Park Hall CP, Parkhill Farm, Radford Meadows, Rugeley, Swallow Moss, Trentham Gardens, Tucklesholme NR, Uttoxeter Quarry (seven), and Whitemoor Haye (four). W Mid This species continues to increase, albeit at a much slower pace than Little Egret. Since the first record in 1995 we waited eight years for the next, however, since 2011 there has only been one blank year (2014). This year saw 49 records from seven locations. Marsh Lane NR recorded 12 singles over the course of the year with two on September 25th, 26th and 30th. Elsewhere, singles were noted as follows: on January 6th, Coventry on 18th, Whitlock’s End on February 25th, on March 21st, Seth Somers Park on April 21st and Sandwell Valley on November 22nd and 23rd.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Frequent and increasing visitor and scarce breeder. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 1p32p1554211 Draycote 2 2 3 3 1 13 68 68 30 10 1 2 Kingsbury WP/ Middleton 54 33 16 10 6 6 7 27 6 30 40 24 Lakes Ladywalk NR 3 4 11 5 7 5 10 7 8 1 2 1 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 568422----11 Camp Lane Pits 1 - - 3 - 5 5 17 21 13 9 6 Clifton pits -----1--1-1- Grimley Old Workings ------2 2 1 6 Gwen Finch Wetland/ John - - - 1 1 3 16 1 1 3 - - Bennett NR Ripple Pits 1 4 3 4 10 3 2 1 2 2 2 1 Upton Warren 1 5 - 5 - - - 1 3 5 10 7 Wagon Wheel Lane Pits ------3 1 1 6 6 Westwood Pool 3 2 ------3 10 13 3 Staffordshire Barton GP ------4 - 6 - 32 69 Belvide Res --1111467-11 Blithfield Res 1 - - - - 5 23 30 30 2 - 5

64 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Branston GP 5 4 3 4 4 6 38 35 20 6 9 5 Clay Mills 18 12 - - 4 - - - - - 1 - Croxall Lakes - 1 1 3 - - 10 - 12 7 3 - Doxey Marshes 343351582333 Middleton Lakes 5 6 4 3 3 4 43 32 43 61 79 76 Radford Meadows 445------123 Tittesworth Res 233---64---1 Trentham Gardens 12------522 Tucklesholme NR 1 - - 1 4 11 17 26 6 2 - 2 Uttoxeter Quarry 1-11-116141- Whitemoor Haye 5 1 1 3 - - 3 2 8 51 7 1 West Midlands --1112674175 Marsh Lane NR 232122498885 Priory Mill Pond 19 ------17 17 20 Trittiford Mill Pool 1-1---11271-

Little Egret, Draycote, Bob Hazell

Warks A pair was found breeding at a new site in the east of the county and fledged four young. In the north, three pairs were present in the Middleton Lakes heronry, with one nest fledging three young, and at the other regular site six pairs fledged 12 young. At Draycote there was a remarkable post-breeding influx, with 68 logged in both July and August, treble the numbers present in 2017. A new site record was also established at Earlswood Lakes, with 10 on August 5th. Despite much searching, the county record of 81 roosting at Middleton Lakes in December 2017 remained intact, with a high of 54 on January 5th. By the end of the year the main roost had shifted to the Staffs part of the reserve. In the south of the county birds remain less frequent,

65 but at least two were at Meon Vale on June 5th, with maxima of three at Salford Priors GP on August 26th and three at Abbots Salford on October 14th. One at Lighthorne Quarry on April 28th was only the second site record. Worcs Still no reports of nesting pairs in the county. Away from the table, two were noted flying down river at Arrow Valley North on January 1st, one was at Lower Moor/Wick on 23rd, 10 at Truemans Heath on 25th, whilst Redditch - Abbey GC held two on 20th, three on 28th and two on February 19th and 25th. The grounds at Chateau Impney held three on March 12th, five were at Stoke Prior on 13th, two at Lower Moor/Wick from April 22nd–30th, one at Kemerton Lake on May 9th, two at Hill Court Farm from 12th to June 6th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on May 20th and one at Kemerton Lake on 23rd. One was noted at Pershore - Avon Meadows on June 14th, three at Hill Court Farm on 18th, one at Lower Bittell Res on August 1st, two at Bevere Island on 10th and singles at Salwarpe and Stanford on Teme on 29th, Stanford Bridge on September 1st, Shelsley Beauchamp on 15th, Bewdley on 17th and Throckmorton Outer Lagoons on 23rd. Three frequented Tardebigge Res on 23rd, one was at Stanford on Teme on October 2nd, two at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 3rd, two at Top Barn Farm Activity Lake on 8th, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th and two groups equalling 19 birds at Peterbrook Farm on December 21st. Staffs Numbers at Middleton Lakes may include those in Warwickshire. Birds were noted at a total of 71 sites this year, compared with 64, 53, 65, 44, 28 and 32 during the previous six, reflecting the continuing increase of this bird in the county. A non-tabulated count of 19 birds was made at Branston WP on July 31st. W Mid As little as ten years ago there were just six records with a maximum of three birds; this year the species was recorded from 50 different locations with just short of 300 records! Breeding was suspected at one location with birds recorded during the breeding season at several more. Away from tabulated sites, records of more than two are as follows: four at Marston Green on January 20th, eight at Coundon Wedge on March 10th, four at Kingfisher CP on May 3rd, 12 at Priory Mill Pool on October 15th (with 20 on December 29th), three on the River Cole on 20th and two at Trittiford Mill Pool on 30th.

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Rare passage migrant and storm-driven vagrant (8/10). Amber-listed Warks A juvenile flew through Draycote on September 24thBHaz . Worcs A juvenile flew over Camp Lane Pits on September 14thCLe . Staffs One flew north over Barton Gate at 17.20 on September 24th MCa and a juvenile flew over Branston GP at 16.10hrs on October 7th JWo.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Scarce visitor in all months, with occasional influxes in autumn and winter (9/10). Red-listed Warks It was a very similar picture to 2017, with a juvenile arriving at Draycote in the autumn. First found on October 16th BHaz, it was last reported on November 1st. Shag, Draycote, Bob Hazell

66 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter resident and passage migrant. Uncommon breeder. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford 17 19 30 8 1 - 2 7 5 25 55 9 Brandon 28 53 14 12 6 4 4 20 22 33 74 52 Earlswood Lakes 7 9 3 2 1 - - 1 2 25 10 10 Kingsbury WP 50 43 59 26 9 9 9 - 24 73 42 75 Salford Priors GP 20 23 11 10 2 1 6 10 56 85 78 44 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 14 6 21 2 ------19 26 Avon Meadows 474131--3355 Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, 13 - 5 3 - - - - 3 10 8 11 River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 8 3 2 1 - 2 5 9 5 12 6 12 Bredon’s Hardwick 11 35------Camp Lane Pits 50 - 23 15 14 15 22 14 36 88 69 61 Clifton Pits 7 12 2 8 4 1 14 55 26 50 40 22 Gwen Finch Wetland 3855--237449 John Bennett NR 24221-122231 Kemerton Lake 5 1 1 1 3 2 - 3 3 3 6 14 Ripple Pits 1 18 45 6 3 1 2 4 16 8 86 62 Trimpley Res & River Severn 8 15 - 4 - 3 - 4 5 4 8 11 Upton Warren 50 27 13 5 2 2 4 6 8 21 40 35 Westwood Pool 26 8 3 - - - - 1 1 22 17 8 Wilden Marsh 985------5- Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 71 33 37 52 56 47 85 101 45 30 34 16 Belvide Res 12 15 20 12 2 - 6 23 140 16 114 45 Blithfield Res 24 24 175 22 28 52 109 164 93 90 77 197 Chasewater Res 5 1 - 1 - - - 1 1 7 20 69 Copmere 3 3 16 - - - - 4 14 20 23 25 Croxall Lakes 3 4 2 5 8 - 2 - 150 140 137 4 Doxey Marshes 20 13 2 1 5 1 4 20 62 34 14 13 Gailey Res 55 41 13 3 - - - 1 17 2 30 7 Middleton Lakes 12 - 5 4 5 12 37 3 25 30 87 17 Trentham Gardens 17 19 21 - 1 - - - 2 11 18 26 Tucklesholme NR 6 - - 6 6 - 174 139 120 10 253 28 Uttoxeter Quarry 29 9 11 7 2 6 6 20 54 31 21 18 West Midlands Fens Pools LNR 10 6 10 3 1 - 2 - 3 6 7 9 Marsh Lane NR 40 46 37 16 7 6 8 12 35 25 37 58 Olton Mere ------1 12 8 9 Sandwell Valley 4 4 5 4 1 1 5 7 18 18 11 12 Sheepwash UP 4 - - 2 - - - 9 28 - - - Sutton Park NNR 10 10 2 - - - - 1 7 2 5 7 Swanshurst Park 10 2 1 ------5 8 Trittiford Mill Pool 221-1-2-2211

Warks For the first time in five years a breeding count was received from Coombe CP, with 14 pairs present (cf. 34 in 2013). At Ladywalk NR 32 active nests were counted on May 8th, and a

67 nesting attempt may also have been made in the south west of the county. In March, at Salford Priors GP, an adult was seen carrying a stick off towards the River Avon in the Bidford-on-Avon area. Away from tabulated sites, notable counts included 53 at Coton Lakes on October 29th, c.300 roosting at Ladywalk NR on December 10th and 37 fishing at Compton Verney Lakes on 30th was comfortably a site record. Worcs Singles or pairs reported from many localities away from the tabulated localities, whilst the best counts comprised 18 at Hunnington Farm on January 7th, eight at Sling Pool on 7th and 14th, five at Tardebigge Res and six at Bewdley on 14th, eight at Bewdley on 20th, 22 at Kyre Pool on 25th, eight at Hunnington Farm on February 24th and eight at Grimley Old Workings on April 21st. Lenchwick held three on August 5th, eight were at Bevere Island on 10th, 18 at Sling Pool on September 4th, 19 at The Standbatches on November 14th and 11 at Sling Pool on December 20th. Staffs Sightings came from a further 64 non-tabulated sites (36, 53, 52, 35, 38 and 65 in the previous six years). Breeding was confirmed at one site in the county, holding 28 nests in May, down from 57 last year. Autumn visible migration / dispersal was noted at Berry Hill and Black Bank between August and November totalling 98 south and 45 north (112 S and 72 N in 2017, 58 S and 20 N in 2016, 93 S and 54 N in 2015, 149 S and 25 N in 2014). The only significant counts not tabulated were 150 flying over Whitemoor Haye on September 8th (also noted at nearby Croxall Lakes), 100 over Branston GP on November 25th, 60 over Clay Mills on November 2nd, 53 at Branston GP on August 21st and 48 at Whitemoor Haye on November 6th. W Mid Away from tabulated sites this species was recorded at a further 45 locations. Birds were present during the breeding season at six locations but there was no proof of breeding.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus Uncommon passage migrant. Amber-listed Warks A decent spring passage got underway with an early bird at Draycote on March 14th, with another there on 25th. On April 1st, a bird passing over Blackwell Bushes to the north-west was likely that present later in the day at Salford Priors GP, whilst another was at Draycote. Additional reports came from the latter on 4th and 7th, before the first of the year in the north of the county at Ladywalk NR on 12th. The only lingering individual was at Brandon, seen on five days between 18th and 23rd. There was then a three-week gap until birds were at Brandon and Earlswood Lakes on May 17th, another flew through both Kingsbury WP and Middleton Lakes on 22nd and one passed over the river at Welford- on-Avon on 27th. There was one in June, at Ladywalk NR on 9th. Birds on return passage were seen at seven Osprey, Middleton Lakes, Hughie King sites, commencing at Ladywalk NR on August 14th. The second was at Draycote between 20th and 22nd and may have been the same bird present on 27th, before the last of the month passed over to the east at Brandon on 29th. A juvenile briefly fished at Earlswood Lakes on September 4th, one flew over the M6 near Harborough Magna on 10th, another passed over Oldbury - Hartshill on 17th and the last of the year was at Coleshill on October 5th.

68 Worcs Birds were reported on 28 dates from 21 locations with all records relating to single bird flyovers. Upton Warren received the most records, with birds recorded on five dates. The only other site to record the species on multiple occasions was Hewell Grange with two records. Birds were recorded in March at Upton Warren on 28th, Hewell Grange and Stone on 29th and finally Evesham on 31st. April produced birds at Clifton upon Teme on 7th, Walton Hill on 8th, Lickey Hills on 10th, Upper Bittell Res, Upton Warren, Kidderminster and Wilden Marsh, all on the 13th, and lastly one over Oakenshaw, Redditch on the 19th. Four midsummer records were received, Upton Warren Moors Pool on June 3rd, Snead Common on 6th, Clent on 11th and finally Upton Warren - Moors Pool again on July 4th. Return passage began with a bird at Spetchley Park on August 9th, Timberhonger and Cooksey Green on 18th and Clifton upon Teme on 31st. September produced birds over Hewell Grange on 7th, Grimley Camp Lane and an individual over both Throckmorton and Lower Moor on 9th, Stanford on Teme on 13th, Norchard on 17th and finally over both Upton Warren - Moors Pool and Pershore on the 23rd. Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 16 39 33 19 41 c.43 21-23 39 c.69 49 48 46 50 42 36

The first arrivals were two birds through Belvide on April 1st and during April there were four more birds through along with sightings at Blithfield Res (four), Cuckoo Bank, Doxey Marshes, Ingestre, Keele, Kidsgrove, Middleton Lakes, Rudyard Lake, Uttoxeter Quarry and Whitmore - Cudmore Fishing Pools. During May, birds were seen at Belvide Res, Blithfield Res (two), Branston GP, Middleton Lakes (two), Mottey Meadows and Uttoxeter Quarry. One was at Middleton Lakes on June 10th, followed by July sightings at Tittesworth Res on 7th and Belvide Res on 8th and 20th. One at Blithfield Res on August 16th remained on and off until September 9th after which the last birds were seen at Gayton on September 11th and Branston GP and Middleton Lakes on 21st. W Mid A slight improvement this year with eight records compared to last year’s six. Bartley Res saw the first bird of the year on April 15th TMH. There was a bit of a gap before the next in the Sandwell Valley on May 1st Birdguides, then Stubber’s Green on 6th Birdguides. Singles were seen heading over the M5 at Oldbury SMp and at Marsh Lane NR on June 10th SHa with another seen flying north being mobbed by gulls on 13th GGi. There were only two autumn records, firstly a juvenile at Engine Pool - Earlswood on September 4thJOa , flying from Warwickshire into the West Midlands County. The final record of the year refers to a bird seen at Marsh Lane NR which was seen flying south on September 5thBirdguides .

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor. Two 19th century and one possible 21st century breeding records. Amber-listed Worcs One seen at Witley Court on May 7th SCol drifting west in the late morning with two Common Buzzards was an excellent find and the first in the county since 2008.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Green-listed Warks Confirmed breeding pairs were found at: Bush Wood, Cawston Woods, Coombe CP, Fenny Compton, Hillmorton, Ladywalk NR, Lighthorne, Salford Priors GP and Thurnmill Spinney. Records came from an additional 31 sites during the nesting season. Six at Ladywalk NR on October 30th was the highest count. Attempted prey species noted were House Sparrow, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Starling and winter thrushes.

69 Worcs Reported commonly across the county throughout the year with 464 records across well distributed sites. Three, a male and two females, were hunting finches feeding on a derelict sunflower crop at Naunton Beauchamp in early February. A maximum count of 5 was made from Kemerton Lake where birds hunted pre-roosting Eurasian Starlings from October to December. A nest at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged three young from a clutch of four eggs. At Wick, three were present in early December hunting finches/ buntings over the game feed crops. Prey taken this year included a male Blackbird in the Wyre Forest on April 21st. Staffs No change in status for this widespread bird. Four were seen at Doxey Marshes on April 9th and Radford Meadows on September 2nd. W Mid This species was recorded at 83 locations (cf. 76 in 2017), Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Belvide Res, Kevin Wardlaw broadly in line with recent years. Breeding took place or was strongly suspected at Alcott Wood, Harborne NR, The Leasowes, Marston Green, Shard End and Siden Hill Wood. Elsewhere birds were recorded during the breeding season at a further 18 locations, but no proof of breeding was forthcoming.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. Green-listed Worcs Birds were recorded throughout the year with submitted reports on 23 dates, with a typical peak in sightings from late February to April. An immature bird that spent 2 days at Westwood Pool from January 5th–6th and again on February 20th was particularly notable. Birds were noted at 7 sites during the breeding season however limited data was received on success. A juvenile was observed soaring at one location in early September RMa, JSp, GHP, JRe, CLe, JTuc, DSc. Staffs Four pairs bred in the county, one fledging a juvenile. An immature male was seen at Belvide Res on March 6th SNu, one flew over Middle Mayfield on 19th JBR as did a male at Knypersley Res on July 22nd GBr.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce passage migrant. Amber-listed Warks There were 10 sightings at Brandon BMVCT, beginning with a female on February 18th and 19th. In April, there were observations on 19th, 20th and 22nd, the former bird sporting green wing tags which are used by the North-West Norfolk Ringing Group. Further reports later in the year consisted of a female/juvenile on July 21st, a female on August 9th TdeC et al and unsexed individuals on September 10th, October 9th and December 11th. Only just behind was Ladywalk NR, where birds were recorded on seven dates SFr, including the first of the year on January 18th. There were two in May, on 4th and 9th, one in August on 8th, but the top month was September, with records on 7th, 8th and 25th, although females on the latter date and the May 4th record were the only birds sexed. Elsewhere, on February 24th a female or immature was over fields west of Sawbridge DWat, TMa, and on April 7th a male flew north-west low

70 along the Fenny Compton Hills being chased by a pair of Red Kites JJB! Later in the spring one was at Salford Priors GP on May 31st NDu. In late summer a female went over Hartshill on August 26th RWA. A female was seen a couple of times on the morning of October 4th at Morton Bagot DJS and another female flew over Stretton Baskerville on 9th JHar. Five further records from the north of the county did not include any supporting details. Worcs Birds were recorded on 13 dates involving a minimum of seven individuals. Uncharacteristically, two of this year’s records involved twitchable birds. Birds were recorded in both passage periods, with a single midsummer record. Records commenced on April 2nd when a female flew over Upton Warren. This was followed by an immature female which remained in the county for seven days between April 22nd and 29th where it commuted between Coney Meadow and Westwood Pool, with presumably the same bird also recorded at Grimley - Camp Lane on 23rd and Tapenhall on 28th. Birds were recorded at West Hagley on June 11th and Kemeton Lake on August 8th before a juvenile stayed at Upper Bittell Res from September 4th– 5th. An immature bird was seen on September 29th at Grimley Wagon Wheel Pits at 13.00hrs. What was presumably the same bird was later recorded at Throckmorton at 14:15. The final record of the year was an immature/female at Upton Warren Flashes on October 16th. Staffs There were no males reported this year, just immature and/or female birds. The first sighting was an immature at Aqualate on January 7th and 8th followed by a female there on March 17th. In April, sightings were made at Branston GP on 4th and 17th and Doxey from 8th–12th. May records came from Keele University on 2nd, Middleton Lakes on 5th and 12th, Branston GP on 7th and a female at Aqualate Mere on 14th. Return passage commenced with a juvenile through Branston GP on August 4th, then Middleton Lakes on 5th, two at Blithfield Res from 9th–11th with one on 13th and 18th, Belvide Res on 24th and Kingswood Pool on 25th. The last sightings were at Aqualate Mere on September 15th and October 7th and Middleton Lakes on September 1st and November 14th. W Mid A disappointing year with just a single record which came from Reedswood Park on March 5th EOSB.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in Staffs in 1974-5 and 1979. Red-listed Warks There were two brief sightings, both of ringtails. The first was over fields at Bodymoor Heath on January 18th SLC, the second near on November 22nd CHo. There have been no males in the county since two in 2012. Worcs Two birds were recorded this year, both in October. A male was recorded at Pershore - Avon Meadows - Pershore on 25th, representing the first site recordTHu, RSt. This was followed on 30th by a female which hunted over the partly drained Upper Bittell Res RWa, SPa, JLC. It roosted overnight before departing south east at 13:40pm on the 31st. Staffs Five or six birds wintered on the North during the first winter period and at least two males and a female were seen in the second winter period.

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant (5/10). Amber-listed Staffs A male flew north over Downs Banks at 9.30 on May 29th MJa. The last sighting of a Montagu’s Harrier in the county was in 2006.

Harrrier sp. Warks A ringtail flew through to the south at Lark Stoke being mobbed by two Carrion Crows at dawn on September 21st DRi.

71 Red Kite Milvus milvus Scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th Century but now a rare to uncommon breeder. Green-listed Warks The year began on an exciting note with the discovery of a large winter roost near Shipston-on-Stour. After a couple of reports of c.30 in January, a subsequent investigation recorded 70-80 individuals roosting in a small wood on 26th, a large number of which were first and second calendar year birdsTMa , GJA, SMH, JGB. In the second winter period the best gathering was 40 on December 28th, although the birds had shifted to a different location and a nearby wooded ridge TMa. It was also a record year for breeding activity, with 10 confirmed or probable pairs found, eight in the south-east and one each in the south and south-west. Other notable records were eight feeding together on sheep pasture at Wormleighton on September 24th and up to six around Long Compton throughout the year. Worcs Red Kite continues to solidify its position in the county’s avifauna with a 39% increase of number of sightings reported in 2018 compared to 2017, rising to 184 records. Birds were recorded widely across the county, with 95 sites reporting birds with sightings in every calendar month. Two sites in the south of the county recorded multiple birds during the breeding season, however no confirmed evidence of breeding was received. A maximum count of four birds in June and six in August at these sites may have indicated local breeding. Upton Warren continues to receive good numbers of records with 20 reports of the species this year. Staffs At least one pair nested, although the outcome was unknown and sightings in July would suggest at least two other pairs were attempting. The monthly sightings showed increases over previous years in February, March and July and peaked as usual in June. There were six records in January and August, seven in September, four in October, none in November and two in December. W Mid A pair was seen with recently fledged young at an undisclosed site constituting the first confirmed breeding in the county. Elsewhere there were 21 records of mainly singles, exceptions noted in brackets. The first record of the year came from Sutton Park NNR on March 4th, followed by further March records at Goscote Valley on 6th (and June 12th), on 22nd and near J5 of the M42 on 26th. Passage continued in April with one at Wall Heath on 3rd, two at Marsh Lane NR on (and one May 5th), one at Merecroft Pool LNR on 16th and four at Copt Heath on 25th. In May, singles at Reedswood Park on 9th (and May 28th) and Lifford Res on 19th. The final three records in the first half of the year were in June and were presumably wandering non-breeders rather than passage birds: two at Bartley Res on 2nd and singles at Lint Meadow also on 2nd, at on 3rd, Fishley Lane (Walsall) on 5th, Westwood Heath on 6th, Hawkes End Farm on 7th (and September 29th) and Dobbins Oak on 28th.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Frequent and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks The largest assembly of the year was 18 on ploughland at Fenny Compton on September 27th, whilst in the neighbouring parish of Wormleighton 16 were feeding on a dead sheep on October 1st with five Red Kites and six Ravens! Further north, the best count was 15 at Ladywalk NR in March and April, while in the west it was 14 on ploughland at on May 16th and 14 at Salford Priors GP on June 3rd. Little in the way of breeding counts were received. Worcs Once again, the most commonly recorded raptor in the county, with 1,532 records in 2018. Birds were recorded throughout the county. At least six pairs bred at . Notable counts of 20 at Upton Warren on April 1st and 17 near Malvern on November 24th were received. Amongst prey taken this year was an unfortunate Dunlin at Upton Warren Flashes on April 30th

72 Staffs The highest counts were 20 at Radford Meadows on September 2nd and 19 at Keele - Lymes Road on August 30th. W Mid The improved fortunes of this species continue with nearly 1,000 sightings via BirdTrack. Birds were recorded from 131 locations with birds present during the breeding season at 36 of these (cf. 68 sites in 2017) which is a little surprising. Breeding was confirmed at Berkswell, Harborne NR, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Reedswood Park, Seth Somers Park, Wychall Res and Yorkswood. Notable counts were nine at Berkswell on April 15th, eight at Sandwell Valley on August 28th, nine at Sutton Park NNR on October 17th and six at Withymoor Pool on September 25th.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident. Green-listed Warks The status of this species in the county continues to remain stable. Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (as per 2017, eight), Ladywalk NR (at least two), Middleton Lakes (nine territories), Napton Res and Salford Priors GP (although not seen here after April 22nd). Birds were also noted at Kingsbury WP and Whittleford Park in early April and at 22 sites in all, a rise of two from 2017. The highest number during the winter months was seven calling at Brandon on February 3rd. Worcs Potentially five broods noted at Upton Warren. At the North Moors Pool two young were observed on May 16th, three on June 2nd and one on July 11th, at the Moors Pool a juvenile on May 3rd and two+ on July 11th, whilst Water Rail, Napton Res, Theo de Clermont Hen Pool held one on August 7th and two on 20th. Elsewhere juveniles were also observed at Arrow Valley Lake on August 9th and Kemerton Lake on 18th and 25th. Adults were heard or seen at Pershore - Avon Meadows throughout the year, whilst two birds were calling regularly at Hill Court Farm from May 3rd – June 7th. During the first winter period two+ were noted at Pershore - Avon Meadows on January 1st, Arrow Valley Lake held singles on 10th, 12th and March 8th, one was photographed in a Bromsgrove town centre garden on January 11th, two were at Wassell Grove Pools on 12th, one at Hunnington Farm and Fishery on 19th, four at Strensham Sludge Lagoons on 26th and one at Wassell Grove Pool on 31st, March 4th and 16th, one at Clifton Pits on February 18th, one at Hewell Grange Lake on March 29th, whilst up to four frequented Lower Moor River Meadows during both winter periods. One was at Wood Norton River Meadows from April 18th – 22nd, one at Arrow Valley Lake on August 9th, one at Grimley Old Workings on October 9th, one at Clifton Pits on November 11th and three at Bevere Island on December 2nd.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Avon Meadows 4212---1--1- Camp Lane Pits -121---1-353 Coney Meadows 2+ 3+ - 1 ------Gwen Finch Wetland 243---222442 Kemerton Lake 2 2 3 1 - - - 1 2 3 5+ 2

73 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Ripple Pits 22-1------12 Upton Warren 41332-345752 Westwood Pool 22------

Staffs Birds were reported from 25 sites this year compared with 32, 28, 23, 21 and 19 in the previous five. Doxey Marshes recorded the highest count of 21 in July. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res (one pair), Branston GP (one), Doxey Marshes (31 territories) and Middleton Lakes (one) and probably occurred at Aqualate Mere. W Mid At least three pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR and as is usual, this species proved elusive during the breeding season until young were observed. At Marsh Lane NR during the first winter period there were 14 sightings, thereafter birds were seen regularly from August to the year’s end. In the Sandwell Valley birds were observed year-round apart from July and August, with no evidence of breeding. During the first winter period there were multiple sightings with a maximum of eight on January 25th and during the second winter the best count was six on October 28th. Birds were also observed at Dicken’s Heath, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools LNR, Goscote Valley, Lutley Wedge, Marston Green, Merecroft Pool LNR (two on January 22nd and March 24th), Sutton Park NNR and Wychall Res. There were eight sightings at Smestow Valley LNR with three on February 24th.

Corn Crake Crex crex Once bred but now very rare summer visitor (2/10). Red-listed Warks A singing male held territory near from May 15th–19th per CEH. The site was only a mile from where the previous year’s bird had been recorded at Alvecote Pools, perhaps suggestive of the same individual returning to the area.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (6/10). Has bred. Amber-listed Warks One was heard calling for a few minutes at Ladywalk NR at the northern end of B Pool on September 20th SFr, PSo. Worcs Once again, Upton Warren proved attractive for this species with one found in Amy’s Marsh at the Moors pool on July 27th AAm, AHa. It remained visible from the East Hide from 07.30am until dusk.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident. Green-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 8 4 4 5 7 6 5 5 5 6 8 16 Avon Meadows 7 6 9 6 5 3 16 13 11 9 5 6 Beckford NR 3 4 3 4 2 3 5 3 6 7 1 Bevere Loch – Diglis Loch, 2---1-1-2333 River Severn Bittell Reservoirs 8 9 8 5 3 2 11 22 32 35 40 40 Blackstone -2-3312----- Brake Mill Pool 9-311----23- Broadway Gravel Pit 1164------Camp Lane Pits 100 - 21 18 25 45 50 32 29 53 48 41

74 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Churchill 1-241---141- Clifton Pits 247442654664 Croome Landscape Park - - - 1 - - - - 2 - 6 - Gwen Finch Wetland 7 8 8 6 6 4 4 10 6 6 6 4 Hunnington Farm and -2241------Fishery Ipsley Alders -222------John Bennett NR 6 6 6 4 4 4 8 5 5 4 10 4 Kemerton Lake 6 8 6 4 6 2 12 12 14 8 8 4 Lower Park Farm Fisheries 8 3 - - 1 - 2 6 - - - - Pirton Pool 2 - - 3 2 - - 14 - 5 - 4 Ripple Pits -1154-236242 Tardebigge Res 9-2------4-- Trimpley Res & River Severn 4 4 - 2 2 2 2 3 5 4 4 4 Upton Warren 36 19 19 13 10 14 20 29 29 22 16 36 Westwood Pool 2 4 3 8 - 2 10 3 6 6 4 4 Wythall Park 234---122441 Staffordshire Alrewas - 8 6 - 2 8 - 3 - - - 10 Aqualate Mere - 2 2 - - - 16 2 10 - 3 - Belvide Res 14 16 14 5 p 6 15 10 18 14 14 6 Borrowpit Lake 27 - - - 6 - 2 - - 2 29 - Branston WP 14 - - - - - 6 - - 14 - - Burton-on-Trent - 16 10 3 2 4 2 3 - - - 8 Chasewater Res 23 16 13 6 2 - 18 20 28 53 29 44 Doxey Marshes 12 13 9 10 19 18 21 22 21 26 25 19 Ford Green NR - 9 11 4 8 18 26 13 18 12 26 28 Kettlebrook LNR - - 15 11 5 - 9 - - - - - Middleton Lakes 2 - - - 2 6 10 - 5 17 15 - River Sow Meadows 20 15 15 - - - - p 9 8 - 10 Rudyard Lake 6 - - 1 1 - 13 23 4 6 3 1 Trentham Gardens - - - - - 4 - 7 16 24 26 32 Westport Lake 31 20 21 7 - 2 12 - - 6 20 27 West Midlands Cannon Hill Park 1876126ppPpp Fens Pools 8 8 4 7 3 3 2 9 7 10 10 9 Marsh Lane NR 23 32 24 16 11 10 17 33 23 26 24 13 Merecroft Pool LNR 24341p332322 Netherton Res 12 10 6 5 2 4 2 10 12 16 20 26 Park Lime Pits 24221p232331 Parkes Hall Res 558Pp568pPp7 Sandwell Valley 12 7 16 8 4 p p p 10 30 2 p Sutton Park NNR 14 20 12 11 2 8 9 12 24 29 26 19 Swanshurst Park 843123774556 The Leasowes 2 1 4 7 10 p p 7 7 6 5 6 Trittiford Mill Pool 10 6 8 2 3 1 8 11 7 7 13 9 Walsall, Old GC 17 20 12 13 5 9 22 24 30 29 28 25 Walsall - Rushall Canal 5 5 12 10 7 9 29 19 23 17 16 16 Wychall Res 464533345644

75 Warks Counts of breeding pairs included an estimated 10 at Brandon, around five at Ladywalk NR, at least six at Lighthorne Quarry, eight at Middleton Lakes and at least seven at Salford Priors GP. The highest count by some distance was at least 100 at Kingsbury WP on November 22nd, whilst other good counts included 48 at Napton Res on October 15th and a possible site record 54 at Earlswood Lakes on November 25th. A probable leucistic bird was seen at Charlecote Park on January 23rd. Worcs No breeding data received. Away from the tabulated localities, best counts comprised six at Sixways and Shire Business Park on February 17th, three at Wilden Marsh on 20th, four at Batchley on March 4th, three at Nafford Weir on 25th, seven at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on June 29th, four at Greenhill and the River Avon on September 2nd and six at Stakenbridge Lane Pool on December 15th. One or two birds also reported at Belbroughton Church, Bewdley River Bank, Bibbey’s Hollow, Blackwell Court, Bodenham Arboretum, Caldwell Hall Timberhonger, Canal between Upper Bittell Res and Alvechurch, Caunsall Marsh, Cofton Res, Cooksey Green, Dodford Church, Fort Royal Park, Grimley Old Workings, Himbleton, Knapp and Papermill, Lower Moor, Pepper Wood, Sling Pool, Stanford Lake and Walton Pool. Staffs There were 23 sites with confirmed breeding (25 last year). Non-tabulated double- figure counts comprised 13 at Barton-under-Needwood and Elford + Fisherwick North Pit in September, 12 at Bradeley in September, 11 at Trent Valley - East Bishton in July and 10 at Wheaton Aston in January. W Mid Birds were present at 50 sites across the county during the breeding season, which is about average for this species, although probably an underestimate. Away from the tabulated sites best counts of ten or more were as follows with maxima in brackets: Coombeswood Wedge (15), Edgbaston Pool (ten), Elmdon Park (14), Olton Mere (13), Ravenshaw (14) and finally Smestow Valley LNR, with 28 on January 19th.

Common Coot Fulica atra Fairly common resident, common in winter. Green-listed

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Brandon 22 28 22 21 12 15 35 25 31 21 22 19 Compton Verney - 55 ------50 85 Coton/Lea Marston - - 148 - - - - - 1248 996 1100 Draycote - 100 1 11 - 60 140 - 260 235 550 - Earlswood Lakes 9 16 10 8 5 11 19 17 10 28 13 13 Kingsbury WP 467 3 - - 30 - - - - 388 563 250 Napton Res 220 200 180 75 30 - - 70 70 93 125 155 Salford Priors GP 101 104 115 100 58 126 216 200 265 170 155 140 Shustoke Res 358 - 80 - - - - 180 - 330 50 249 Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 11 10 10 8 14 6 3 4 5 10 7 10 Avon Meadows 3 7 7 8 11 5 1 - - - - 1 Beckford NR 5 5 12 6 9 5 2 - 1 1 - - Bittell Reservoirs 87 48 25 17 16 14 30 72 72 165 145 186 Brake Mill Pool 1-213-----2- Bredon’s Hardwick 75 4 2 7 6 ------Camp Lane Pits 180 50 110 120 180 159 191 140 210 320 400 Churchill ----2---21-- Clifton Pits 6 53 41 29 42 - 32 28 36 42 50 3 Croome Landscape Park ------8 - 3 - Grimley Old Workings - - - - - 98 - - 2 2 2 2

76 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Gwen Finch Wetland 7 18 27 12 10 2 2 - - - - 1 Ipsley Alders -241------John Bennett NR 7 30 19 12 10 14 7 2 - - 10 - Kemerton Lake 118 93 68 21 18 38 76 118 178 182 152 145 Lickhill Quarry - - - 7 11 11 4 - - - - - Lower Park Farm -11-21-4---- Fisheries Pirton Pool 13 6 - 11 11 - - 8 - 1 - 8 Ripple Pits 60 35 12 16 32 36 88 134 80 59 62 73 Trimpley Res & River 2 ------5 7 9 12 Severn Upton Warren 182 92 107 45 31 48 76 204 260 220 155 48 Walton Pool - 12 - 2 - - - - 2 2 - - Wassell Grove Pool - 2 2 - 6 ------Westwood Pool 20 60 36 47 30 130 167 40 12 4 6 3 Wythall Pool 324212333333 Staffordshire Aqualate Mere 2706 532 407 63 106 237 821 1483 551 81 65 116 Barton under Needwood - - 89 - 29 87 - - 380 - - - Belvide Res 384 283 360 18 128 465 880 1215 811 144 100 141 Blithfield Res 76 117 50 31 66 156 54 18 6 2 12 33 Branston GP - - - - 28 135 - - 285 404 - - Branston WP 160 - - - 26 - 150 - - 235 - - Chasewater Res 643 406 210 115 105 212 334 490 670 846 808 646 Copmere 61 45 36 8 4 26 61 81 305 468 412 728 Fisherwick + Elford North 114 88 24 12 16 8 15 33 36 12 27 5 Pit Gailey Res 232 199 81 72 - 74 201 370 321 142 143 73 Himley Hall - 45 30 p - - - 70 - - 150 - Middleton Lakes 10 18 - - 70 34 150 - 24 170 200 - Trentham Gardens 830 383 108 - 8 67 69 315 558 465 525 402 Westport Lake 116 72 61 28 - 26 58 - - 50 68 112 Whitemoor Haye 88 52 32 28 15 10 17 22 144 194 79 146 West Midlands Edgbaston Pool p 80 55 50 25 p 90 p p p p p Fens Pools 47 46 24 38 15 25 43 107 74 65 75 65 Marsh Lane NR 78 72 78 43 21 60 84 85 43 37 13 20 Netherton Res 24 44 24 P 14 p p 37 18 41 41 50 Parkes Hall Res 25 18 16 P p 15 30 15 p p p 15 Sandwell Valley 15 37 36 11 8 p p p 219 370 p 24 Sutton Park NNR 23 30 17 16 13 19 21 27 57 62 59 60 Swanshurst Park 6 15 11 5 17 14 7 9 11 8 p 9 Trittiford Mill Pool 11 8 13 6 8 5 7 7 6 8 8 7

Warks Counts of breeding pairs included: Astley Castle (four), Brandon (five), Ensors Pool (around three), Farnborough Park (three), Lighthorne Pools (five), Ladywalk NR (about nine), Lighthorne Quarry (three), Middleton Lakes (11), Salford Priors GP (about 25) and Wormleighton Res (three). At Brandon, a reduction in numbers from October until the end of the year was noted to coincide with increased Otter activity. The best numbers away from tabulated sites were 90 at Great Pool - Packington Park on February 20th, 80 at Broadwater -

77 Forest of Arden GC on September 25th and 192 at Ladywalk NR on October 15th. A count of 27 at Morton Bagot on March 23rd was a site record. Worcs Up to five broods at Ripple Pits were the only breeding data received. Sightings away from the table comprised five and six at Finstall Park on January 3rd and 7th respectively, 30+ at Sling Pool on February 11th, 20+ at Lower Moor on 18th, whilst Cofton Res held two on March 7th, April 17th, May 1st and 14th. Two were at Blackstone on April 8th, 12 along the Canal between Upper Bittell Res and Alvechurch on 20th, two at Bodenham Arboretum on 26th, one at Bungay Lake at Timberhonger on June 2nd and 20+ at Lower Moor on November 11th. Staffs Aqualate Mere held the largest numbers, as in the previous two years. A total of 29 sites had reports of confirmed breeding (26, 31, 25 and 35 in the last four years), with evidence suggestive of breeding at a further thirteen at least. W Mid Birds were recorded during the breeding season at 36 sites, a little above average and as is the case with Moorhen, probably an underestimate. Away from the tabulated sites the only high counts were 47 Sheepwash UP on September 30th and 24 at Saltwells NR on December 24th.

Common Crane Grus grus Rare vagrant (9/10). Amber-listed Warks One flew over Ladywalk NR heading north on the afternoon of April 9th PSo, and a short while later was recorded over Middleton Lakes still following the same trajectory RSPB. The species was last seen at Ladywalk in October 2000, when a party of six flew over. What was presumably the same bird may also have flown over Ladywalk again on 13th, but no details were received. Worcs On May 2nd, two circled high over Ripple Pits mid-morning RAP. Staffs One was present at Whitemoor Haye on April 12th and 13th BSm. W Mid An adult was seen briefly in the early evening of April 20th as it flew north over the car park at Marsh Lane NR DJS.

Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Rare vagrant (4/10). Amber-listed Warks One was found in highly unusual circumstances, with an injured bird discovered in a Nuneaton garden on the approximate date of December 7th. After being taken into care at the Vale Wildlife Hospital, it was released by the RSPB on Salisbury Plain in April 2019 TMa. This was only the fourth county record within the post-1974 boundary, following one at Shipston-on- Stour in 2001 and singles shot at Weston-on-Avon in 1853 and in 1847.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Frequent passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor and uncommon to scarce breeding bird. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake -1521------Bredon’s Hardwick -4442------Clifton Pits -14664------Grimley Pits 14334221---- Holt Sling Pool -22222------John Bennett NR -23531------

78 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Kemerton Lake NR -44643------Lower Moor --52631----- Ripple Pits - 5 10 8 14 10 6 12 - - - 1 Throckmorton Lagoon - 2 2 2 4 2 1 - - - - - Upton Warren 1677682----- Staffordshire Alrewas 1222-62----- Belvide Res 2 5 8 8 10 12 6 1 2 - - - Blithfield Res 4 12 7 8 2 8 25 20 1 1 - 1 Branston GP 2 5 8 7 7 11 2 5 - - - 1 Branston WP -12124------Chasewater Res -2332-2----- Coal Brook - Hales -222141----- Croxall Lakes -3736-1----- Doxey Marshes -353522----- Gailey Res -456-2------Middleton Lakes 5 15 22 10 4 4 4 - - - - - Tittesworth Res - 4 4 5 9 10 6 3 - - - 3 Tucklesholme NR -223252----- Uttoxeter Quarry -6856155---- Whitemoor Haye 1462224----- West Midlands Marsh Lane NR 1 6 9 10 9 7 5 1 - - - - Sandwell Valley 1 2 5 6 10 9 4 1 - - - -

Warks Breeding pairs were noted at Brandon (two, both fledging one young), Kingsbury WP (three young reared), Ladywalk NR (failed) Marston Fields GP (seemingly failed) and Salford Priors GP (two young fledged). Although observed fairly regularly during the spring and summer at Abbots Salford, Draycote and Welford-on-Avon there were no confirmed reports of nesting. In total birds were recorded at 21 sites, with 24 at Dosthill Lake on March 18th equalling the county record set at MOD Kineton in October 1991. Worcs An early returning bird Oystercatchers, Belvide Res, Kevin Wardlaw arrived at Upton Warren on January 26th and another was back at Grimley Camp Lane Pits on 28th. Three pairs bred at Upton Warren, two nests on the Moors Pool hatching five young, with three fledging. At Kemerton Lake NR, two pairs bred fledging three young between them. A pair at John Bennett NR failed to nest and another pair at Lower Moor Leisure Park successfully fledged three young. A pair was seen with two juveniles at Clifton Pits in mid-June but no successful breeding was reported from either Grimley or Holt. Three pairs nested at Ripple Pits and separate broods of one, two and three young fledged there. At Throckmorton Lagoons a pair fledged two young. Away from tabulated sites counts of one or two birds on dates between February 24th and July 1st came from Pershore - Avon Meadows, Bevere Island, , Gwen Finch NR, Lickhill Quarry,

79 Longdon Marsh, Lower Park Farm, Pirton Pool, Ryall Pits, Upton upon Severn, Westwood Pool and Wood Norton River Meadows. Staffs Year 2002 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Pairs 5 2 6 7 9 15 19 19 15 15 17 20 14 16 14 20 16 Successful 3 1 5 5 4 7 8 8 7 6 4 10 7 10 8 10 6

Successful breeding occurred at Belvide Res, Branston GP, Branston WP and Tittesworth Res. Returning birds used to typically arrive in March but this year was much earlier with birds already in the county in January and additionally, a few appear to be “returning” in December. Non-tabulated sightings were made at 33 other sites in the county with the highest counts of 10 at River Tame / Anker confluence on April 9th and five at Whitmore - Bent Lane on April 15th. W Mid Four pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR with all eggs hatching, disappointingly only one chick fledged. At Sandwell Valley, two pairs nested raising two and three chicks respectively. Elsewhere, birds were scarce with two at Berkswell on February 28th with another on March 5th (and two more on May 11th). The only other records were as follows: two at Stubber’s Green on April 7th (and 18th), two at Bartley Res on 27th, one at Fens Pools LNR on May 2nd and 16th, three at Clayhanger Marsh on June 11th and finally two at Goscote Valley on 12th.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Scarce passage migrant and scarce breeder. Amber-listed Warks The first of the year, aged as a first-winter, was at Draycote on March 18th and was followed by another there on 29th. Two also on the latter date at Middleton Pool were presumably making a brief excursion from Middleton Lakes, and remained until the following day. The only April record was a party of three at Brandon on 8th. Two were on flooded farmland at Birchmoor on May 7th, and later in the week another was at Alvecote Pools on 13th both. Flooding at Middleton Lakes on May 28th was likely responsible for two birds Avocet, Upton Warren, Kevin Wardlaw relocating to Birchmoor on that date, remaining until June 1st. Four were present again on 4th, dropping to two the following day and on 9th. The last of the year was at Earlswood Lakes on November 17th, the second record for the site following one in November 2012. Worcs One arrived back at Upton Warren on February 16th with numbers increasing to 14 later in the month and 44 by the end of March. A total of 20 pairs nested on the reserve, with six pairs hatching 16 chicks. Unfortunately, the fox-proof fence failed and only one brood of three young fledged following heavy predation. Due to this and very low water levels the last bird was seen on July 17th. The bird ringed in Holland on September 4th, 2008 was again present on April 25th at least. Elsewhere one visited Ripple Pits on March 25th AWa, two were at Grimley Camp Lane Pits on May 30th BRS and a late bird was again at Ripple Pits on November 17th PRh.

80 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Upton Warren - 14 44 44 41 44 57 - - - - -

Staffs At Middleton Lakes, the first bird arrived on the early date of February 25th, three pairs attempted to breed, with one fledging two young and the last bird being seen on August 16th. At Belvide Res, one was present on March 14th with three on 25th, two on April 6th, one on 28th and 29th, one on May 13th with two on 18th and 19th. Elsewhere, one was at Branston GP on March 14th with two on 29th, one at Doxey Marshes on 30th, Blithfield Res on April 4th, Aqualate Mere on May 13th, two at Doxey Marshes on 18th, two at Tucklesholme NR on June 9th, Branston GP on 10th and the last at Chasewater Res on the unusual date of November 17th. W Mid Despite breeding elsewhere in the Region this species remains scarce in the county, although it has now been seen in each of the last four years. This year there was just a single record of a bird on Railway Pool - Marsh Lane NR on April 21st and this constituted the fifth site record DJS.

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

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 275 60 15 4 8 40 80 90 65 - - 25 Brandon 280 349 66 9 15 211 276 359 339 306 263 350 Draycote - 150 - - - - 20 - - 32 600 400 Fenny Compton/ 550 350 63 10 2 9 39 4 33 75 345 330 Wormleighton Kingsbury WP 300 673 36 2 7 27 120 - 9 5 35 228 Ladywalk NR 400 150 3 6 10 20 25 24 14 60 250 350 Morton Bagot 89 28 15 8 4 20 62 37 30 - 5 19 Salford Priors GP 450 120 40 3 3 15 90 88 115 250 63 230 Worcestershire 500 250 ------Avon Meadows - - 26 - 1 1 - - - - 130 200 Bittell Reservoirs - - - - 1 4 1 - - 2 39 40 Bredicot - Crowle ------100 550 - Clifton Pits - 4 2 1 ------13 - Grimley Pits 140 275 45 2 2 5 30 90 30 61 100 200 Holt Sling Pool 75 150 15 7 2 14 31 - 80 - 12 10 John Bennett NR 80 11 8 4 7 69 169 238 137 164 62 300 Kemerton Lake NR 24 162 27 4 2 - 132 127 175 157 82 15 Lickhill Quarry - - 19 3 8 8 25 - - - - - Longdon Marsh 2750 2500 ------Lower Moor/Wick 750 162 8 2 8 22 80 82 65 185 245 450 Wetlands Ripple Pits 700 90 15 15 17 12 12 3 - 160 1500 120 Teme Valley - 70 52 ------1 7 - Upton Warren 1000 750 238 25 15 36 119 227 235 402 550 708 Wood Norton 328 - 2 2 2 ------Staffordshire Alrewas 500 137 - 8 1 4 4 - 2 - - 400 Aqualate Mere 300 100 23 2 - - - - 104 - 25 200 Barton under Needwood ------52 - - 112 100 -

81 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Belvide Res 600 600 200 2 40 50 100 143 41 539 429 1019 Blithfield Res p 50 22 8 22 56 310 318 44 180 147 146 Branston GP 700 800 500 30 37 80 85 79 250 227 360 400 Chasewater Res 80 73 7 - 5 5 18 23 42 57 78 120 Cheddleton/Consall 215 58 13 2 2 ------104 Coal Brook - Hales 75 4 22 12 10 5 14 92 3 - - 100 Croxall Lakes - 2 4 - 1 - 76 140 - - 4 5 Doxey Marshes 580 800 160 14 16 73 109 200 16 180 350 600 Hixon Airfield 23 6 18 4 7 4 - - - 93 232 - I54 35 105 150 4 6 - - - - 80 - - Ingestre 126 204 6 58 6 - - 8 - - - 30 Middleton Lakes 350 200 20 14 2 53 25 - 170 400 50 400 Radford Meadows 600 1000 150 4 2 - - - 4 84 106 804 River Sow Meadows 88 120 30 10 4 18 32 - 20 17 31 100 Rudyard Lake - - - 1 - - 2 2 94 133 - 115 Silverdale CP 6 2 6 4 14 6 70 85 122 75 35 10 Tittesworth Res 84 45 22 8 10 16 112 6 14 37 38 61 Uttoxeter Quarry 1000 124 6 6 13 161 550 400 163 259 588 700 Whitemoor Haye 1000 1100 100 6 6 5 13 153 69 250 1500 1500 Whitmore - Bent Lane 450 55 40 8 3 23 - - - - - 170 West Midlands Lutley Wedge - 240 187 3 ------Marsh Lane NR 410 326 144 35 19 53 83 105 164 300 420 325 Sandwell Valley 14 22 19 14 18 24 25 30 39 40 38 25 Stubber’s Green 220 p 2 p p p p p p p 11 p

Warks Although the breeding population is still thought to be declining, confirmed or probable nesting pairs were located at: Abbots Salford (several), Brandon (six, but only two young fledged), Dairy Farm (two), (two), Ladywalk NR (five, but all nests lost to flooding at the end of May), Lighthorne, Lower Tysoe, Marston Fields GP (at least two), Morton Bagot (two pairs fledged three young), MOD Kineton (three), Napton Res (four in early spring, but only two went onto nest), Newbold-on-Stour (several), Packington Park (at least five), , Salford Priors GP, , Wasperton, Wolverton (four) and Wormleighton (five, but most deserted in mid-April due to fast growing crops). Birds were also noted at an additional 18 locations between April and June. In the first winter period the largest party was 700 at Chapel Ascote on January 12th, with other good counts at non-tabulated sites including: 200 at Northend on 17th, 250 at Knightcote on 19th, 300 at Northern Lapwing, Rudyard Lake, Charlecote on 28th and 150 at Moreton Morell on Steve Seal February 12th. As demonstrated by the above table, the now traditional post-breeding assembly occurred at Brandon, while late year maxima at non- tabulated sites included: 100 at on September 30th, 138 at Ragley Fields on 29th,

82 110 at Ashorne on December 9th, 270 at Bidford-on-Avon on 12th, 150 at Combrook on 18th and 300 at Coton Lakes on 29th. Worcs Breeding was noted at John Bennett NR where two pairs fledged one young, Kemerton Lake NR where two pairs nested and one of these fledged two juveniles, Longdon Marsh where at least nine pairs nested and three young fledged from at least one brood, Lower Moor where a pair fledged a single juvenile, Ripple Pits where at least three pairs nested and juveniles were seen with two of these pairs in mid-May, Throckmorton Lagoons where a pair raised two young, Upper Bittell where two young fledged and Upton Warren where four pairs attempted twice with only two broods hatching and all young lost to predation. At Wood Norton a pair also lost their eggs to predation. A pair was recorded nesting at Hipton Hill, but no juveniles were reported. Away from tabulated sites, at least 60 were near Portway on February 5th, 50 near Malvern Wells at the Three Counties Showground on 28th, 50 at Ryall Pits on July 21st, 72 at Little Comberton on October 18th, at least 90 south of on December 2nd, 150 near Bromsgrove on 22nd and 60 at Chadwich on December 31st. Smaller numbers were recorded at 33 other sites on dates throughout the year. Staffs Year 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Breeding Pairs 284- 280- 346- 377- 305- 270- 236- 223- 196- 404- 450- 287 273- 225- 302 297 357 398 333 276 242 234 201 434 468 288 238

A further decline in breeding birds continues to cause concern. It should be noted that “breeding pairs” refers to any breeding attempt from “displaying” to “fledged young” so the number of successful breeders will be lower in count. The most notable sites were Wilson Knowl where the fenced off area encouraged 33+ pairs and Branston GP with 9 pairs. Larger counts from non-tabulated sites were 470 at Gailey Res on February 17th with 400 there on November 17th, 350 at River Dove - Draycott Mill on December 18th, 350 at Cresswell on December 9th, 300 at Wheaton Aston North on January 21st, 210 at Fauld on January 26th, 180 at Stanley Pool on February 4th, 172 at Endon STW on December 9th and 150 at Audley on January 7th. W Mid It was another disastrous breeding season at Marsh Lane NR mirroring last year. Early signs were promising with nearly 30 pairs on the reserve and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, even though many young were produced it was thought all were lost due to predation! Breeding occurred in the Sandwell Valley and Stubber’s Green, but the outcome was unknown. Away from tabulated sites the highest count was 63 at Mercote Mill on March 5th.

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce, and declining breeding species on the North Staffs Moors. Green-listed

Long-term average: August 15th (69) to April 30th (71) 8-year average: August 21st (6 days later) to May 4th (4 days later) First arrival: August 31st, Clifton upon Teme (Worcs) Last departure: May 27th; Birchmoor (Warks)

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Charlecote area 250 12 84 ------40 - Draycote 50 50 11 - - - - - 2 45 53 200 Fenny Compton/ 300 660 100 250 - - - - 8 87 46 360 Wormleighton Abbots Salford/ Salford 440 44 64 - - - - - 21 9 1 82 Priors GP

83 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Worcestershire Avon Meadows ------115 300 - Bredon Hill - 50 - 14 ------ / Croome Perry 52 45 ------60 - Clifton Pits ------150 4 Grimley 74 8 ------30 - John Bennett NR ------120 33 - Lower Moor area 620 55 18 31 - - - 1 22 85 75 100 Ripple area 1 ------3 - 35 11 Upton Warren 1 ------2 11 24 Staffordshire Belvide Res 47 53 80 - 1 - - 1 7 150 400 208 Berry Hill Fields - - - 1 - - - - 2 82 50 - Branston GP 400 1092 350 ------210 251 45 Codsall Wood - 200 70 ------Doxey Marshes 750 500 - - - - - 3 - - - 300 Gailey Res - - 10 ------44 1 Hixon Airfield - 205 ------186 493 - Ingestre 150 0 220 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Keele University - - 75 181 - - - - - 36 15 - Middleton Lakes 13 - 1 1 - - - - 16 161 140 - Radford Meadows 300 ------88 Tucklesholme NR 250 - 16 ------Uttoxeter Quarry 200 - - - - - 2 - - 4 23 300 Whitemoor Haye 100 500 150 ------15 200 52

Warks Away from tabulated sites, the best counts during the first winter period were 300 at Chapel Ascote (involving the Wormleighton flock) on January 12th, 400 over Hoggrill’s End on March 13th and 200 at Birchmoor on 28th. An early spring departure was evident, with the last decent count of 53 at Over Whitacre on April 10th, although there were two singles in May, at Wishaw on 6th and Birchmoor on 27th. One was reported from Earlswood Lakes on the unusually early date of July 12th, but two over Draycote on September 10th was a more typical autumn arrival as birds started to reappear in the county. A flock of 150 was around the county boundary at Gibbet Hill, Churchover on 29th. The best autumn movement over Coleman’s Hill was 172 on October 8th. Away from tabulated sites, numbers were very poor in the second winter period, and apart from 102 at Admington on 27th, the next best report was just 45 at Brandon on November 16th. Worcs The highest first winter count was of 620 in the Lower Moor area and 250near Offenham in January, with 200 at Aston Somerville on February 16th. Away from tabulated sites a flock of 93 flew over Westwood Pool on January 7th, there were 142 in a field south of Evesham on 13th and 70 at Shenstone on February 28th. In March one was over Longdon Marsh on 6th and 19 at Hinton on the Green on 21st. In autumn groups of up to five birds were seen passing over near Clifton upon Teme on eight dates between August 31st and October 17th, two flew over Tardebigge Res on September 23rd and three were at Abberton on 29th. In October six visited Bredon’s Hardwick on 12th, whilst a peak of 270 birds was counted at Bredicot on November 14th. As the autumn progressed 68 were over Lower Smite Farm, 27 were at Severn Stoke and 21 flew over Upper Bittell Res on November 17th, 30 were over Throckmorton Tip on 19th, one was at Wichhamford on 29th and eight flew over Little Comberton on December 13th.

84 Staffs Just one breeding territory was noted this year compared with five and two in the past two years. Three-figure non tabulated counts were 100 at - Congreave on February 23rd, 300 at Barton-under-Needwood on March 9th and 250 at I54 on December 11th. W Mid Birds were seen on four occasions at Lutley Wedge during the first winter period with 135 heading south-west on February 28th. Also, the regular flock on the outskirts of Minworth was present in the first winter period with a maximum of 31 on March 5th and five were recorded at Hockley Heath on 19th. At Marsh Lane NR one flew south on October 4th, a single bird was seen over Sutton Park NNR on 7th and 23 were at Hockley Heath on 31st. On December 31st, several small flocks totallingc .100 flew west in the general direction of , an occasional feeding/roosting area.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Amber-listed Warks With no sightings at any of the major sites, it was left to a flooded field south of the village of Birchmoor to take the limelight! Stormy weather at the end of May resulted in two different birds being found on 26th and 27th. Worcs A first summer bird was found at Upton Warren Moors early morning on May 27th before it moved to the Flashes and was then joined by an adult in summer plumage that afternoon. The first summer then remained on site until 29th. In autumn one flew through Grimley Camp Lane Pits on Grey Plover, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot November 9th. Staffs As with last year, this was a good year for sightings, commencing with singles at Blithfield on April 6th, 8th and 12th, then at Middleton Lakes on 13th and from May 7th–11th, Croxden Quarry on May 24th, Middleton Lakes from May 26th–June 1st with two there on May 30th, Blithfield Res on June 2nd and Middleton Lakes on 4th. In the second winter period, singles were at Branston GP on October 20th, Alrewas GP on November 4th and Whitemoor Haye on 8th. W Mid One was reported from Edgbaston Res on May 27th CCl.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Frequent passage migrant and scarce summer resident. Rare in mid-winter. Red-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon -2-1815----- Draycote ---122-14--- Salford Priors GP ---732-1---- Worcestershire Grimley Camp Lane Pits - - - 1 3 1 2 2 1 - - - Ripple Pits - - 1 3 6 1 - - 1 -

85 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Upton Warren ---151142--- Staffordshire Barton-under-Needwood - - 6 - - 5 - - 3 - - - Belvide Res - - 1 6 48 8 1 6 7 - - - Blithfield Res - - - - - 1 15 86 35 7 - - Branston GP 2 24 12 7 14 12 7 7 9 - 1 - Chasewater Res ---1-1-361-- Doxey Marshes --133-111--- Middleton Lakes 1 8 5 5 10 7 8 10 10 1 - - Tucklesholme NR - - 1 1 4 8 3 16 - - - - Uttoxeter Quarry - - 1 - 22 7 1 9 - - - - Whitemoor Haye --121-2----- West Midlands Marsh Lane NR -1121-11----

Warks There was no suggestion of any breeding attempts this year, although there was a good movement through the county in late May and June. The first sightings of the year involved one or two at Brandon between February 2nd and 6th. A couple were in the Tame Valley during March, and the only count of more than one in April was a party of seven at Salford Priors GP on 28th. The best numbers in the first half of May were three at Dairy Farm on 3rd and four at Kingsbury WP on 9th and10th. An impressive flock of at least 22 paid a visit to Birchmoor on May 27th, and on the same day eight were at Brandon, two at Salford Priors GP and one at Bedworth Woodlands. Small numbers were reported in every week in June, making it difficult to distinguish between birds still heading for the high Arctic and failed breeders on the move from more southerly latitudes. In July, five juveniles were at Brandon on 18th and other parties of five during the post-breeding season were at Earlswood Lakes on August 21st and 24th, Alvecote Pools on 27th and Earlswood Lakes again on September 8th. The best count of the year at Draycote was four on 5th. Away from tabulated sites, one or two birds were noted at Dairy Farm, Ladywalk NR and Morton Bagot, before the last of the year was heard calling as it flew through Coleman’s Hill on September 29th. Worcs An early arrival was at Ripple Pits on March 4th. Spring passage was otherwise unremarkable, with one or two birds seen on nine dates in May at Upton Warren, followed by a maximum of six and five respectively at each of these two sites on May 25th. Elsewhere singles were seen at Clifton Pits on May 26th, Holt Sling Pool the following day and Lickhill Quarry on June 3rd, whilst a bird of the race tundrae was reported at Upton Warren on 6th. On return passage one was at John Bennett NR on August 10th, two at Ryall Pits on 12th and a nocturnal migrant was heard calling over Abberton on 23rd. In September one was at Bredon’s Hardwick on 23rd and a late bird was at Ripple Pits on November 17th. Staffs Birds were present from January 26th at Middleton Lakes until November 11th at Branston GP. The largest count of 86 was at Blithfield Res on August 28th with 55 there the day before. Another very poor breeding season resulted in one pair with young at Branston GP, likewise at Middleton Lakes where any juveniles probably perished. Non-tabulated passage birds comprised four at Whitmore - Bent Lane on April 26th, one at Branston WP on May 1st, one at Croxall Lakes on 13th, three at Croxden Quarry on 25th, two at Croxall Lakes on June 18th and 30th, two at Tittesworth Res on August 27th and two at Burston from August 27th– 29th. W Mid Away from Marsh Lane NR it was a poor year, the only records were singles at Sandwell Valley on April 4th and 12th. In Sutton Park NNR there were an amazing four birds at Powell’s Pool on May 27th RWSk. This was the observer’s first in 50 years! Good things come to those that wait.

86 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Green-listed

Long-term average: March 17th (54) to October 3rd (54) 8-year average: March 9th (8 days earlier) to October 2nd (1 day earlier) First arrival: March 4th; Upton Warren (Worcs) Last departure: October 6th, Tucklesholme NR (Staffs)

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Bedworth Woodlands ---1433----- Brandon - - 2 7 6 9 10 6 4 - - - Earlswood Lakes -----528---- Morton Bagot ---2225----- Salford Priors GP ---7546----- Worcestershire Bittell Reservoirs ---22------Bredon’s Hardwick ----2--2---- Clifton Pits ---2--3----- Grimley Pits --6342521--- Holt – Sling Pool --12454----- John Bennett NR -----22-1--- Lickhill Quarry --- 3 2 3 - - - - - Lower Moor / Wick Wetlands - - - 1 1 2 ------Ripple Pits --36621----- Ryall Pits ---2141----- Upton Warren - - 2 6 9 8 12 1 - - - - Staffordshire Belvide Res - - - 6 6 6 13 2 1 - - - Berry Hill ---137------Blithfield Res - - - 2 2 12 18 8 3 - - - Branston GP - - 6 14 16 9 8 11 ---- Doxey Marshes - - 3 6 7 10 9 4 - - - - Hixon Airfield - - 1 4 3 5 13 5 2 - - - I54 ---422------Middleton Lakes --65636----- Radford Meadows --132------Tittesworth Res - - - 4 2 7 11 4 1 - - - Tucklesholme NR - - - 4 4 17 15 4 - 1 - - Uttoxeter Quarry ---37871---- Whitmore - Bent Lane - - 1 4 1 ------West Midlands Marsh Lane NR - - 1 3 3 4 6 5 1 - - - Sandwell Valley --12267-----

Warks Confirmed or possible breeding pairs were located at: Bedworth Woodlands, Brandon (two-three, with two young fledged), Meon Vale, Middleton Lakes (two), Salford Priors GP (two, with one pair fledging two young) and Wolston GP. Juveniles noted at Earlswood Lakes, Kingsbury WP and Morton Bagot were likely to have been reared elsewhere. The best passage count was 12 at Birchmoor on April 27th. Amongst other records, a juvenile feeding on a dried- up pool at Lighthorne Quarry on September 2nd was only the observer’s second record for the site in 25 years of watching JJB. Birds were also noted at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote Pools,

87 Dairy Farm, Draycote, Marston Fields GP, Middle , Napton Res and Shustoke Res. As per 2017 the first arrival came at Ladywalk NR on March 12th, with the last at Brandon on September 27th. Worcs The first bird of the year returned to Upton Warren on March 4th. Two pairs bred at Ripple Pits but no juveniles were recorded, whilst one of two pairs at Upton Warren hatched three young, one of which was predated after a few days and the remaining two then only survived for 15 days. Elsewhere a pair probably bred at Holt Sling Little Ringed Plover, Salford Priors, Mark Clarke Pool but another pair at Upper Bittell failed. Away from tabulated sites, birds were recorded at Longdon Marsh on April 20th and Pershore - Avon Meadows on May 31st, whilst the highest count of 12 birds at Upton Warren was on July 4th. Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Pairs 17 18-19 15 22-23 29-30 35+ 35 52 35-39 25-27 8-16 20 28 29 23

The first arrival was at the unexpected location of Hixon Airfield on March 13th followed by birds at Doxey Marshes and Radford Meadows on 18th. The last was the only sighting in October, at Tucklesholme NR on 6th. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Blithfield Res, Branston GP, Britannia Stadium – Stanley Matthews Way, Doxey Marshes, Middleton Lakes and Tittesworth Res and probably occurred at Cheddleton/Consall Valley, Etruria and Whitmore - Bent Lane. Non-tabulated counts came from 11 other sites. W Mid The first returning bird was seen at Stubber’s Green on March 15th with the latest at Marsh Lane NR on September 1st. A pair bred at Urban Village but unfortunately the eggs were predated. Breeding took place at Cornets End with a brood of five noted on April 30th. Birds were present at Marsh Lane NR but did not breed; it was thought this was due to a combination of too many Black-headed Gulls and too much vegetation on the islands. In the Sandwell Valley, a bird was seen removing eggshells, but this pair probably failed, again probably predated. Elsewhere further birds were recorded from Fens Pools LNR, Mercote Mill, Meriden, Olton Mere and Upper Gornal.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10). Red-listed Worcs In spring a bright female was seen on Bredon Hill in a tilled field above for a short period on May 12th GHP, whilst in autumn a juvenile was photographed on Worcestershire Beacon on August 12th and 13th CG-J, GCl ,LCl, MWa

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Green-listed Warks It was a somewhat disappointing year. In spring, all birds passed though in the second half of April, starting with one at Brandon on 15th. Two were at Draycote on 18th, Brandon

88 had its second on 21st and two flew through to the north at Weston-on- Avon early on the morning of 26th. One at Birchmoor on 27th and a flyover at Draycote on 29th were the last of the period. Southbound movement got underway on July 2nd, when one flew over Brandon, with the rest all in August. The first of these was at Draycote between 1st and 3rd, then calling over Salford Priors GP on 12th, at Astley on 15th and finally at Earlswood Lakes on 25th. Worcs The first spring passage bird was at Upton Warren on Whimbrel, Draycote, John Judge April 18th, followed closely by two on 22nd and four on 26th, with a further single on May 10th. Birds were seen at Ripple between April 21st, when there were two, peaking with nine birds on April 26th, then almost daily through to May 4th and with a later bird seen on 27th. Elsewhere one visited Clifton Pits on April 23rd and one called as it flew north over Abberton just prior to midnight on May 2nd. An early autumn passage of 56 birds flying over Clifton Pits on the evening of July 28th AWa was exceptional and a further bird was seen at Ripple Pits on the same date.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Grimley Pits ---11------Ripple Pits ---93-1----- Upton Warren ---41------

Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Spring 22 34 41 35 43 103 111 100+ 44 70 32 44 21 70 31 Autumn 50 10 6 16 12 43 22 16 17 9 23 24 8 51 57

Spring migration was poor this year, but a record autumn total was due to two very large flocks in late July. The first arrivals were at Doxey Marshes and Belvide Res on April 15th with further April sightings at Aqualate Mere, Belvide Res (eight), Blithfield Res (three), Branston GP (two), Middleton Lakes (two) and Whitmore - Bent Lane. May sightings came from Belvide Res (three), Branston GP (seven), Uttoxeter Quarry and Whitmore - Bent Lane with the last at Branston GP on 17th. Return passage commenced on July 28th with one at Belvide Res and an incredible 32 flying through River Sow Meadows in flocks of 24 and eight, five minutes apart. This total count is a new county record, the previous best being 27 at Belvide Res on 8th May 2010. These were swiftly followed by a flock of 19 which dropped into Tucklesholme NR the following day, flying off after only 20 minutes. The rest of the autumn passage was very quiet with singles at Blithfield Res on August 8th and 9th and Branston GP on September 8th and 9th. W Mid Singles were at Clayhanger Marsh on April 19th, at Sandwell Valley on 20th and three arrived on a very wet, windy day at Marsh Lane NR on 24th.

89 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Fairly common, though declining, summer resident and passage migrant. Frequent in winter but with a significant reduction in numbers. Red-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Bredon’s Hardwick --82------John Bennett NR -2221------Kemerton Lake -1-222------Lower Moor / Wick --1111------Ripple Pits -13421------Upton Warren 12 14 11 4 1 12 16 14 13 13 13 11 Staffordshire Belvide Res - - 3 2 1 1 - - 1 3 14 - Blithfield Res - - - - - 1 6 10 9 - 3 3 Branston GP 19 22 29 11 1 5 14 13 17 12 15 20 Coal Brook - Hales 3 17 9 2 ------4 3 Middleton Lakes 1-11-1--49-- Tittesworth Res - 1 48 - - 1 1 - - - - - Uttoxeter Quarry 1 - 26 5 1 - 8 - 8 2 - - Whitemoor Hayes 18 - 1 6 ------West Midlands Marsh Lane NR 1523---1----

Warks Three pairs were again on territory in the south east, although there was no confirmation of any successful breeding and one pair may not even have attempted. There was no suggestion of any pairs in the east of the county in Rugby district. Away from breeding sites, reports came from a further 12 locations, including two at Ladywalk NR on February 26th, two on snow- covered fields at Sawbridge on March 18th and singles flying over Welford-on-Avon on July 15th and September 2nd. Worcs Numbers and breeding success continue to decline. Two pairs attempted to nest at Asham Meadow, Eckington and regularly visited nearby John Bennett NR between late February and May, but both failed due to early hay cutting, whilst a pair at Longdon Marsh lost their eggs to predation. Four pairs were in the Bredon’s Hardwick area on March 10th, with birds continuing to be present through April. Eight were at Uckinghall Meadows also on March 10th and a pair remained into April there and two pairs were at Upton upon Severn - Ham in mid- March, one of which may have attempted to nest, though again no evidence of any successful breeding from these sites. Presumably two of the Upton upon Severn birds were seen at Ryall Pits on May 11th. Further territorial pairs were seen near Arley wood, with three birds there in April, a pair lingered at Wood Norton Wetland in March and April and an unpaired male was at Lower Moor between March and June, whilst a pair at in mid-March weren’t seen subsequently. Three at Clifton upon Teme on April 6th weren’t reported after that date whilst other breeding season records of one or two birds came from Bredon Hill, Finstall Park, Grimley Camp Lane Pits, Holt Sling Pool, Lickhill Quarry, Lower Strensham, Netherwood Lane, Trimpley and Wassell Grove. A flock of 12 seen near Elmbridge on August 12th were presumably birds from Upton Warren and a singleton was at Bevere Island on November 17th. Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 102 59- 64- 67- 70- 104- 67- 50- 53- 90- 67- 60- 56- 52- 46 61 65 68 71 112 69 52 55 95 78 67 57 55

90 The pre-breeding aggregation at Tittesworth Res of 48 birds on March 7th was well down on last year’s count of 148 and breeding numbers also continue to tumble. The largest non-tabulated counts were just eight at Foker Grange on March 7th and at Tucklesholme NR on July 21st. W Mid Away from Marsh Lane NR there were only six records, four in March, as follows: singles at Sandwell Valley on 11th and 13th, when one was also seen from Lutley Wedge and three at The Leasowes on 18th. The final record in spring was one at Clayhanger Marsh on April 19th. The remainder of the year was disappointing with the sole record being two at Coseley on November 6th.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Amber-listed Staffs A poor year for sightings comprised singles at Belvide Res on March 17th, Doxey Marshes on April 14th, Belvide Res from 16th–22nd and May 2nd, Middleton Lakes on May 10th and five over Knypersley Res on August 11th. W Mid The only record came from Sandwell Valley on April 19th PMH. Bar-tailed Godwit, Blithfield Res, G.J. Mant

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter. Red-listed

Black-tailed Godwits, Ripple Pits, Andy Warr

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon --1---11--11 Draycote --1----8---- Ladywalk NR - - - 2 - 8 30 1 1 - - -

91 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Grimley - Camp Lane Pits - - - 1 - - 1 7 1 2 - - John Bennett NR --2---2----- Ripple Pits - - - 49 2 - - 3 - - 1 - Upton Warren - - 1 1 1 - 12 10 3 1 1 - Staffordshire Belvide Res - 1 3 2 15 10 50 19 2 1 1 - Blithfield Res - - - - - 24 25 10 21 - - - Branston GP ---1--171--- Doxey Marshes ---1-1111--- Middleton Lakes - - 3 6 - 5 5 17 1 - 1 -

Warks The year saw a slight drop in reporting sites to seven (cf. eight in 2017 and 11 in 2016). The year’s first arrival was at Draycote from March 2nd–6th, but there were only five records during an underwhelming spring, with a high of three at Kingsbury WP on 24th. The first returning bird was at Salford Priors GP from June 14th–17th, followed by another at Earlswood Lakes on 27th. The top site during this period was Ladywalk NR, with birds present on eight dates, including 11 on July 3rd and 30 flying overhead on 30th. One was at Alvecote Pools from August 7th–9th, with two on September 4th, and a juvenile was at Earlswood Lakes on 17th. One at Brandon on December 27th was an unusual winter record. Worcs The first of the year arrived at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 12th and two visited John Bennett NR on 17th. One visited Clifton Pits on April 13th before spring passage peaked with a flock of 49 at Ripple Pits on April 24th. 34 birds were still there on 26th, dropping to 20 on 27th, before increasing again to 25 on 28th. Strongest autumn passage was concentrated at Upton Warren where eight birds visited on July 1st, followed by 12 on 20th and a further ten on August 7th, with birds being recorded on 12 dates there in this latter month Staffs The largest count of 50 was at Belvide on July 5th. Non-tabulated records were one at Radford Meadows on March 8th – 31st, 18 over Gailey Res on 30th, one at Berry Hill Fields - Botteslow Flash on April 17th, one at Tucklesholme NR and 32 at Whitemoor Haye on May 12th, five at Tucklesholme NR on July 1st, two at Tittesworth Res on 2nd with one still present on 6th, one at Coal Brook - Hales on 22nd, singles at Tucklesholme NR on 24th and 29th, 11 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 31st, four at Coal Brook - Hales on August 5th, one at Whitemoor Haye from 12th–14th, Tucklesholme on 25th and Burston from 27th–29th, two at Chasewater Res on September 22nd, Radford Meadows on October 16th, Hanford on 18th and two at Rudyard Lake on November 11th and 23rd. W Mid The only spring records came from Upper Gornal on April 8th and at Bartley Res on 20th. The autumn began with a single at Marsh Lane NR on July 14th followed by a bird thought to be of the Icelandic race in the Sandwell Valley on July 26th with another on August 11th. The final record was of two at Marsh Lane NR on October 6th.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Amber-listed Warks It was another decent year at Draycote. The first arrival was two on May 5th, followed by singles on 18th and 25th. After a one-day gap two were present on 27th, dropping to one on 28th–30th. The only record elsewhere was a bird circling Birchmoor on the evening of 23rd, before departing to the north east. On return passage singles were at Draycote on August 28th and September 13th.

92 Worcs In spring one was found at Upton Warren Flashes on May 25th with another bird there the following day, whilst one visited Grimley Camp Lane Pits on June 3rd and 4th. On return passage one again visited Upton Warren Flashes on August 20th. Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Birds 50 27 37 55 52 69-73 48 32 14-16 33 51 26 36 29 31

The first arrival was at Belvide Res on April 25th, this site also hosting birds from May 22nd–24th, 26th, two on 27th and 28th and four on August 27th. Blithfield Res had its first on May 25th and 26th with others on July 31st, August 9th, three on 10th and singles on 20th, September 2nd–4th and 22nd. Elsewhere there was one at Branston GP and two at Uttoxeter Quarry on May 25th, two at Branston GP, one at Tucklesholme NR and two at Uttoxeter Quarry on 26th, one at Branston GP on 27th and 28th, singles at Tucklesholme NR on 28th, Turnstone, Draycote, John Judge Middleton Lakes on 29th, Branston GP on 31st and another there from September 14th–20th. W Mid Having not recorded this species since 2014, Marsh Lane NR enjoyed a good year with three records. All were summer-plumaged birds and all for one day only. The first was on May 24th DJS, followed by a second on June 1st GGi. The only other spring bird was at Edgbaston Res on May 27th CCI. The first of a thin return passage was at Sandwell Valley on July 26thDSa and the third Marsh Lane NR record was on August 7th JHu.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Amber-listed Warks As in 2017, two records were received. One at Earlswood Lakes on March 1st arrived in blizzard conditions and was a site first. Later in the year, another was at Draycote on October 5th. At the latter site, the only years where this species has been absent since 2000 are 2006 and 2013. Staffs Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Birds 26-27 27-28 17-18 31 59 11 8-9 18 9 19 21 12

The first and only spring sighting was at Middleton Lakes on April 17th. On August 10th, singles were seen at Blithfield Res and Branston GP, the former remaining on the following day. Blithfield Res hosted a colour ringed bird on August 18th and 19th which indicated ringing at Formby Lancs, then a juvenile lingered at Branston GP from 21st until September 2nd, being joined by a second juvenile on 27th. The last sightings were at Blithfield Res on September 2nd, three at Belvide Res on 8th and one at Rudyard Lake on November 23rd.

93 Ruff Calidris pugnax Frequent passage migrant, though in variable numbers. Scarce in winter. Red-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Grimley Camp Lane Pits - - - 1 - - 1 1 2 - - - Ripple Pits --121------Upton Warren ----1-12---- Staffordshire Belvide Res ---1-422--5- Blithfield Res ------10 6 7 - - - Branston GP 8982--1-4838 Middleton Lakes 33341312413- Whitemoor Haye 8------163

Warks Birds were typically thin on the ground during spring passage. A female was at Salford Priors GP on March 18th, but there was a two-month gap until the next, at Birchmoor on May 19th. A female dropped into Brandon on 26th and the last of the period was another female at Salford Priors GP on 27th. A male at Birchmoor on June 27th heralded the beginning of return passage. In July, birds were at three sites, with one at Ladywalk NR on 2nd, a moulting male at Morton Bagot on 6th and another male at Brandon on 8th. The only sighting Ruff, Rudyard Lake, Steve Seal in August was two at Alvecote Pools on 19th, before the main pulse came through in September. Juveniles were at Earlswood Lakes on 3rd and 4th and on three days between 11th and15th, with a female also on the latter date at Salford Priors GP. The best party was four at Draycote on 16th, one was at Napton Res on 18th, a female and juvenile paid a brief visit to Kingsbury WP from Middleton Lakes on 20th and another singleton was at Salford Priors GP on 23rd. The final two birds of the year were at Dairy Farm from October 1st–3rd and Draycote from 4th–5th. Worcs In addition to records shown in the table, one visited John Bennett NR on July 16th, one was at Clifton Pits on September 24th and another at Grimley Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 30th, whilst a late bird was found at Upper Bittell Res on November 18th. Staffs Three wintering birds at Middleton Lakes were also seen at from January 16th until April 2nd. Other non-tabulated birds were seen at Chasewater Res on March 1st, two at Tittesworth Res on June 29th, one at Tucklesholme NR and two at Uttoxeter Quarry on July 1st, Doxey Marshes on 10th, Croxall Lakes on 19th, Tucklesholme NR from 21st–24th, Rudyard Lake on November 11th and12th, Barton GP on December 9th, two at Branston WP on 11th , Park Farm, Aqualate Mere on 26th and Doxey Marshes on 28th. W Mid A poor year with just four records, the first was at Upper Gornal on April 8th CCl. At Marsh Lane NR there were no spring records for the first time since 2009. The autumn was more productive although none lingered for more than 35 minutes: a male on July 8th, three on Car Park Pool on September 5th SHa, followed by another on 21st SHa.

94 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring. Worcs A juvenile was seen briefly at Grimley Camp Lane Pits on the morning of August 29th. Staffs Another poor year for sightings - one at Blithfield Res on July 29th and 30th, Chasewater Res on September 8th and Middleton Lakes on 9th.

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring (8/10). Staffs One was present for the day at Middleton Lakes on May 11th JHu, PHu.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Amber-listed Warks A minimum of ten records constitutes the best showing since 2011. The first was at Draycote on April 2nd and 3rd, before the vast majority passed through in May. One visited Brandon briefly on 2nd and another was at Birchmoor on 16th and 17th. Three at Draycote on 24th was the first of six consecutive days that birds graced the county. During this spell, two were at Birchmoor on 25th and 26th, with one lingering to 27th, and another single was at Salford Priors GP on 25th and 26th. A flock of five, the best of the year, were at Draycote on 27th and 28th Sanderling, Draycote, Bob Hazell and another group of three were at Salford Priors GP on 28th and 29th. On return passage one was at Draycote on August 8th and 9th, increasing to three on 10th. Worcs Two reported at Camp Lane Pits on the morning of May 27th could not be found later in the day. Staffs Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Birds 48–55 32 65 30 115 56 59–64 41 75-79 66 71 71-78

The first bird was at Belvide Res on April 27th and May as usual saw the largest numbers with birds appearing at Belvide Res (15 including 10 on 2nd), Blithfield Res (seven), Branston GP (24-29 including 14 on 27th), Croxden Quarry (two), Middleton Lakes (three), Tucklesholme NR (three-four) and Uttoxeter Quarry (two). In June there were three at Middleton Lakes on 2nd and singles at Tittesworth Res on 4th and Middleton Lakes on 8th and 10th. In August there were singles at Blithfield Res on 5th and 6th, two on 9th and 10th and singles on 13th, 18th and 19th and 23rd and another single at Belvide Res on 10th. W Mid The only record came from Bartley Res which played host to a single bird on May 24th TMH.

95 Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon --223-1--21- Draycote - - 3 1 16 1 1 7 5 - 2 - Ladywalk NR ---13--1--1- Salford Priors GP -83-22--1-2- Worcestershire Clifton Pits --1----1--2- Grimley Pits --311-13221- Holt Sling Pool ----52------Ripple Pits -- 11 7 2 - - - 1 1 3 3 Upton Warren --4331-28181 Staffordshire Belvide Res - 1 3 4 25 12 4 5 1 6 31 - Blithfield Res - - - - 25 3 21 38 12 10 15 - Branston GP 2 3 8 3 6 3 2 7 10 5 4 7 Chasewater Res ----1-113-1- Doxey Marshes --121------Middleton Lakes - - 10 13 4 3 2 4 5 3 6 - Tittesworth Res -----112---- Tucklesholme NR ----3133---- Uttoxeter Quarry 1---74-2---4 Whitemoor Haye 2------1-11- West Midlands Marsh Lane NR --211-11-121

Warks It was another fairly lean year, with 16 at Draycote on May 2nd the only double-figure flock. The best party away from tabulated sites was seven at Earlswood Lakes on September 8th. The only months without records were January and December, with reports of no more than three also coming from: Abbots Salford, Alvecote Pools, Bedworth Woodlands, Birchmoor, Charlecote, Coton Lakes, Kingsbury WP, Napton Res and Shustoke Res. One was found freshly killed by a bird of prey at Fenny Compton on April 6th. Dunlin, Draycote, John Judge Worcs The highest spring count was of 11 birds at Ripple Pits on March 4th, with seven there on April 27th. Away from tabulated sites one was at Westwood Pool on February 28th, one at Arrow Valley Lake on March 2nd, with another at Lower Moor and Wick Wetlands on 3rd, a single at Bevere Island on 4th and a further two birds at Lower Moor again on 15th. In August single birds were seen at Kemerton Lake on 5th, Ryall Pits on 12th, Tiddington Hall Farm Pool on 19th and Bredon’s Hardwick

96 on 25th, with three at this last site on 27th. Peak autumn counts of eight birds at Upton Warren on September 27th and November 17th were totally eclipsed by a record of 98 birds passing over Stanford on Teme on nocturnal migration on November 16th to 17th, with largest numbers recorded between 04:00 and 06:00. Staffs Non-tabulated records were six at Barton-under-Needwood on March 9th, one at Radford Meadows on 10th and 25th, Whitmore - Bent Lane on April 15th and May 2nd, Alrewas GP on August 11th, Burston on September 6th, Barton-under-Needwood on 19th, one at Radford Meadows on October 6th and five at Dunstall Hall on November 13th. W Mid This species continues to decline. Even at the tabulated Marsh Lane NR there was a continuing downturn. Elsewhere there were just three records: singles at Sandwell Valley on March 1st and at Edgbaston Res on 4th and in the second half, two were at Sandwell Valley on October 18th.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring and winter. Warks It was a quiet year, with just three singletons in spring. The first came at Birchmoor on May 17th-18th, followed by another there a week later from 25th–26th. The last was at Draycote on 27th and 28th Worcs In spring two breeding plumage adults were found at Holt Sling Pool on the afternoon of May 27th whilst in autumn a juvenile lingered at Camp Lane Pits from September 18th to 23rd. Staffs Just one bird was seen this year at Blithfield Res on October 13th and 14th.

White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis Very rare vagrant (1/10). Staffs An adult bird was found at Middleton Lakes at 10.35hrs on May 25th but flew off at 13.30hrs SPA, JHar. This is the fifth county record, the last being at the same site White-rumped Sandpiper, Middleton Lakes, in November 2012. Steve Atkinson

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Warks An adult at Brandon from July 16th–18th was the fifth time the species had visited the site; the previous record was a juvenile in September 2013 BMVCT. Staffs A juvenile was present at Belvide Res on September 9th SNu.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks An improvement on recent years, with records coming from 39 sites. There was a notable influx at Ladywalk NR in December, with ten thought to be present on the reserve from

97 mid-month. In contrast, in the first winter period the only count of more than two was four at on January 7th. The final record in the first half of the year was at Brandon on April 6th, with the first to return in autumn flushed at Napton Res on October 15th. Of particular interest were sightings of singles feeding in a small Bedworth garden on November 10th and flying low over High Street towards dusk on 16th. Both were presumably newly arrived migrants. Away from Ladywalk NR, the best count in the second half of the year was four in fairly young plantation woodland at Braggington on 22nd. Worcs Reported from 44 sites this year. In the first winter period ones and twos were recorded at 32 sites, with three at on January 2nd, five flushed by a shoot at Hinton on the Green on 11th, a similar number at Chaddesley Wood on January 28th and again on February 28th, three at Engine Coppice on February 16th and three at Castlemorton Common on March 31st. Breeding season records only came from Swinyard Hill where there was a roding bird on March 22nd and in the Wyre Forest in June. In autumn an early returning bird was reported from the Wildgoose NR at Grimley from September 27th, otherwise up to two birds were seen at 16 other sites on dates through to the end of the year. Staffs Records from Cannock Chase totalled 22 roding birds. In addition, birds were also roding at Coombes Valley, Gentleshaw Common and Enville GC (four). In the first winter period, birds were seen at 24 sites in ones or twos other than 12 at Dimmingsdale, six at Loynton Moss and three at Swallow Moss. In the second winter period, there were sightings of one or two birds at 16 sites other than 17 at Dimmingsdale. W Mid A rather disappointing year with just thirteen records. In the first winter period there were two in Sutton Park NNR on January 4th and one on the 6th. There were two records for Lutley Wedge with singles on March 1st and 4th, and one at both Old GC (Walsall) and at Sandwell Valley on 25th. The second winter period saw singles at Harborne NR on October 29th, at Sandwell Valley and Good Hope Hospital at dusk on 30th, Little Park Street (Coventry) on December 3rd and finally Castle Hills on 12th.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor.

Long-term average: September 25th (77) to April 22nd (73) 8-year average: September 21st (4 days earlier) to April 23rd (1 day later) First arrival: September 15th; Brandon (Warks) Last departure: April 18th; Kemerton Lake NR (Worcs)

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 111-----1111 Lighthorne Quarry 111-----1-11 Salford Priors GP 2------2-- Worcestershire Grimley Pits -2------111 John Bennett NR 1 1 ------Kemerton Lake NR 4 11 5 2 ------1 Ripple Pits 8 1 - - - - - 1 - - Ryall Pits 3 15 ------Stoke Bliss – Perry Wood 2 - 4 ------1 1 Upton Warren 111------211 Staffordshire Belvide Res --6------12- Black Bank / Silverdale 1 1 2 ------1 - -

98 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Berry Hill 1-31------11 Chasewater Res 21------12- Doxey Marshes 3 15 2 1 - - - - 1 1 2 - I54 11-1------23 Tucklesholme NR 1------31 Whitmore - Bent Lane - - 2 ------1 West Midlands Marsh Lane NR 111------1-1 Sandwell Valley 9 14 7 ------1 1 4

Warks It was a poor year with records coming from only nine sites, and apart from Salford Priors GP all reports were of single birds. Extreme dates were April 5th at Marston Fields GP and September 15th at Brandon. Also noted at Alvecote Pools, Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk NR, Morton Bagot and Middleton Lakes. Worcs The highest first winter period counts were of 15 at Ryall Pits on February 18th and 11 at Kemerton Lake NR in the same month, with the last spring sighting at this site on April 18th. Only low numbers were seen at Upton Warren at either end of the year, but elsewhere one was at Ashmoor Common on January 26th, one near Clifton upon Teme between January 11th and March 25th, three at Holt Heath on February 8th and one at Lower Moor on March 22nd. In autumn a single was at Upton upon Severn on October 21st. Staffs The use of thermal imaging equipment at a confidential site in the south of the county revealed maxima of 23, 12 and seven in January through March and demonstrates how elusive these birds can be as these numbers far exceed other similar sites. Non-tabulated counts comprised one at Baldwins Gate on January 7th, one at Bilbrook on February 17th, five at Bateswood NR on 21st and singles at Ingestre on 22nd, Hixon Airfield on 23rd, Cheadle on 26th and 27th, Ford Green NR on March 5th, Middleton Lakes from October 19th–21st, Hill Ridware on November 11th, Stableford on December 16th and Tittesworth Res on December 28th. W Mid The marsh at Sandwell Valley RSPB continues to be the county stronghold with numbers broadly similar to recent years. During the first winter period the last bird was reported at Sandwell Valley on March 26th with the first returning bird reported here on October 4th. Away from tabulated sites the only reports where of singles at Netherton Res on January 6th and Allesley on December 21st.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent, but much declined, breeding species in Staffs. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 23 49 12 10 1 - 2 5 7 4 9 5 Knightcote 22 20 14 5 ------2 Ladywalk NR 15 1 2 2 - - 4 1 5 8 4 7 Lighthorne Quarry 11 9 3 1 - - - - 2 7 12 15 Morton Bagot 24 4 34 3 - - 3 23 22 17 6 5 Napton Res 3 ------3 25 1 - Salford Priors GP 7161--246712 Worcestershire Avon Meadows 219------121 Grimley Pits 20 10 20 4 1 2 3 5 10 12 2 31

99 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Gwen Finch NR 45 19 125 3 - - - 2 - 10 10 73 Holt Sling Pool 2 10 17 5 ------17 John Bennett NR 33 15 47 10 1 1 2 1 1 1 8 33 Kemerton Lake NR 78 68 48 10 - - - 5 8 1 5 24 Lower Moor 10 26 5 - - - - 1 10 11 18 12 Ripple Pits - - 60 20 - - 3 3 2 1 2 24 Ryall Pits 47 17 - 4 ------Upton Warren 14 20 51 10 3 - 2 8 13 19 35 36 Staffordshire Aston-Burston Trail - 60 - - - - - 26 7 - - - Bateswood NR - 25 2 1 ------Belvide Res 5 2 19 - - - 8 7 9 34 52 16 Berry Hill Fields - - 23 6 - - - 2 2 5 4 9 Black Bank / Silverdale CP 61 71 18 - - - - - 14 78 105 60 Blithfield Res - 11 5 - - - 5 16 20 - - - Branston GP 7 22 5 1 - 1 4 15 15 12 5 10 Chasewater Res 45 57 - 2 - - - - 15 2 12 7 Coal Brook - Hales - 31 3 - - - - 6 - - - - Croxall Lakes 8 3 - - - - 2 - 1 19 5 - Doxey Marshes 129 303 28 4 p 5 4 6 36 47 17 26 Hanchurch Woods 9 21 ------4 17 Ingestre 29 34 21 ------Lordsley Quarry 36 - 17 ------6 Middleton Lakes 2 1 6 2 1 2 8 38 14 23 10 1 Radford Meadows - 63 18 1 - - - - 5 2 9 - River Sow Meadows 26 6 74 33 - - - - 6 17 - 24 Rudyard Lake ------2 6 9 12 17 Tittesworth Res 12 7 4 - - - 1 3 3 - - 27 Tucklesholme NR 9 p 2 3 - - 1 12 5 1 1 - Whitmore - Bent Lane - - - 1 ------40 29 West Midlands Goscote Valley - 2 4 4 ------1 Marsh Lane NR 31 58 56 13 - 1 2 3 5 10 29 20 Sandwell Valley 43 65 55 4 - - 1 2 5 27 36 14 Sutton Park NNR 13 6 - - - - - 3 - 4 - -

Warks Although a couple of observers remarked on it being a disappointing or poor year, birds were noted at 45 sites which was only one less than 2017. Furthermore, apart from Brandon in the second half of the year, numbers at the tabulated sites were not significantly different from 2017. Other maxima included 11 at Harborough Magna on February 2nd, nine at on 15th, 20 in wet stubble at Charlecote on 22nd, 10 at Warwick Racecourse on March 4th, eight at Bedworth Woodlands on 6th, 16 at Alvecote Pools on 16th, 10 in wet scrubland at Earlswood Lakes on 19th and 12 at Dairy Farm on November 17th. One at Birchmoor on August 4th took the years wader count at this small waterbody to 18, an outstanding total. Worcs During the first winter period, the highest count was of 125 at Gwen Finch NR in March. Away from tabulated sites 60 were recorded at Ashmoor Common on January 26th and 23 at Holt Heath on February 8th, with single-figure numbers seen at a further eight sites. There were spring concentrations of 35 at Eckington Meadows on April 10th and 23 at Wood Norton River Meadows on 18th but no evidence of breeding. In autumn numbers were lower, with the highest count again at Gwen Finch NR where there were 73 in December. Smaller numbers

100 were reported from 13 other sites, with 23 at Longdon Marsh on December 20th being the largest count. Staffs Year 2009 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Breeding Territories 32 27-29 14 21-23 29-32 19 15 13 25 27-28 Sites 17 14 7 11 15 12 13 7 12 10

Birds were on territory at Doxey (11 territories, five with young, none fledged), Goldsitch Moss, Hazel Barrow, Knotbury (two), Orchard Common, Readyleech Green (four), Roaches (four), Round Knowl Farm, Swallow Moss and Wilson Knowl. Thermal imaging at a confidential site in (see also Jack Snipe) gave maxima between January and March of 66, 12 and seven. Other large counts were 21 at Brankley Pastures NR on January 17th, 24 at Hixon Airfield on February 23rd, 104 at Lower Foxley on March 7th, 16 at Aqualate Mere on September 8th and 29 at Cresswell on December 9th. W Mid Numbers were down by approximately 25% on previous years, whether as a result of under-recording or a genuine drop in numbers remains to be seen. Away from tabulated sites it was a poor year with the largest number recorded being just five at Streetly on January 1st. Elsewhere, small numbers were recorded at Barr Beacon, Castle Hills, Fens Pools LNR, Netherton Res., Park Lime Pits, Beacon and Tack Farm (Halesowen).

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Rare passage migrant (6/10). Red-listed Worcs A male and female visited Clifton Pits on June 17th – the first record for the site AHo et al.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Rare passage migrant in autumn, often storm-driven. Very rare at other times (9/10). Warks Stormy weather in the third week of September brought a record six birds to the county, beating the previous high of five in autumn 2007. The first arrived at Charlecote Park on 18th

Grey Phalarope, Charlecote Park, John Oates

101 TCl, PPo et al, with another appearing the following day at Napton Res JFCJ. The latter bird, which was a second site record following one in October 1967, was joined by another on 21st, whilst on the same day a remarkable three were found at Salford Priors GP NDu and represented the first instance for the Region of three being present simultaneously at the same site. The Charlecote bird was last seen on 22nd, when all three were still at Salford Priors, dropping to two on 23rd, and were last seen the following day. The two Napton birds were also still present on 23rd, with one lingering until 27th. Worcs An adult was found at Upper Bittell Res on September 22nd and stayed until 24th many observers, whilst a first winter was sadly picked up dead at Kemerton Lakes on 24thRAP . Staffs One was present at Chasewater Res from September 22nd–24th many observers. W Mid There were two records which may relate to the same bird. The first was at Withymoor Pool - which was present from September 24th–28th many observers. The second was at Edgbaston Res on 29th and 30th, which may very well refer to the relocation of the Withymoor Pool individual many observers.

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

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon ---23132---- Draycote - - - 4 4 1 11 7 5 1 - - Earlswood Lakes ---433953--- Ladywalk NR ---3211411-- Salford Priors GP 11-322441-1- Shustoke Res ---21-541--- Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake ---21------Clifton Pits ---3--222--- Grimley Pits ---44-431--- Holt – Sling Pool --- 1 1 ------John Bennett NR ---112321--- Kemerton Lake NR ---1------Ripple Pits 1 1 1 12 6 1 4 4 3 - - - Throckmorton Outer Lagoon ------2 1 - - - Upton Warren ---7134311-- Staffordshire Alrewas -----1111--- Belvide Res - - 1 10 3 6 13 14 4 1 - - Berry Hill – Botteslow Flash - - - 1 2 - 1 1 - - - - Blithfield Res - - - 4 2 2 17 11 1 2 - - Branston GP ---431344--- Chasewater Res ---24-133--- Doxey Marshes ---45-321--- Gailey Res ---21-441--- Knypersley Res -----1111--- Middleton Lakes ---221451-1- Tittesworth Res ---32995---- Tucklesholme NR ---132762--- Uttoxeter Quarry ---246843--- Whitemoor Haye ---21-531---

102 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND West Midlands Bartley Res ---3-111---- Marsh Lane NR ---44-51---- Olton Mere ---2---1---- Sandwell Valley ---411221---

Warks A pair attempted to breed at Coombe CP, and was the second nesting record for the site, after two young were fledged in 2013 PHod. The only other site in the county where nesting has certainly taken place in the post-war years is Salford Priors GP, most recently in 2008, when two pairs were present. An over-wintering bird from 2017 stayed at Salford Priors GP until February 4th. The first spring migrants were at Brandon and Salford Priors GP on April 8th. With birds noted in every week in May and June it was not possible to Common Sandpiper, Draycote, Bob Hazell distinguish between the last spring migrant and the first returning individual. Away from the main sites the highest count was five at Wormleighton Res on July 27th. One or two were also reported on spring or autumn passage at: Abbots Salford, Alvecote Pools, Barton (Bidford-on-Avon), Birchmoor, Dairy Farm, Dosthill Lake, Kingsbury WP, Napton Res, Stratford-upon-Avon, Seeswood Pool and Welford-on-Avon. The last of the year was at Salford Priors GP on November 25th. Worcs A wintering bird remained at Ripple Pits from the start of the year into March. The first migrant was found at Wilden Marsh on March 26th and the largest spring concentrations were 12 birds at Ripple Pits on April 27th, with eight at Westwood Pool and seven at Upton Warren both on 28th. Elsewhere ones or twos were seen at Arrow Valley Lake, Pershore - Avon Meadows, Bevere Island, Evesham and Kemerton Lake NR in April and May. On return passage and In addition to the monthly maxima shown in the table, birds were seen in July along the river Severn in Worcester, in August at Bevere Island, Evesham and Holt Sling Pool and in September again at Bevere Island as well as at Lower Moor and Tiddington Hall Farm Pool. The last sighting of the year was at Upton Warren on October 7th. Staffs There were no wintering birds, the first spring arrival was at Belvide Res on March 28th and the last was at Middleton Lakes on November 13th. After last year’s lack of breeding birds, this year produced at least two successful attempts at Tittesworth Res and three territories at Uttoxeter Quarry. Non-tabulated records came from 18 other sites consisting of ones or twos other than three at Trentham Gardens on July 27th and four at Chillington Pool on August 1st. W Mid The first migrant was seen at Marsh Lane NR on April 8th. Away from tabulated sites two at Fens Pools LNR on April 13th, a single at Sutton Park NNR on 14th with one at Netherton Res on 25th and two there on 28th. One at Edgbaston Res on May 27th closed the spring passage. Autumn commenced with singles at Reedswood Park on July 23rd, Mercote Mill on 25th, Sutton Park NNR on 27th, Netherton Res on August 3rd and finally, Fens Pools LNR on September 9th.

103 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Frequent passage migrant and uncommon winter visitor. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Abbots Salford -112-11331-1 Brandon 1--1-234211- Earlswood Lakes 1----22212-- Ladywalk NR 1-11-1662231 Morton Bagot 1 1 3 2 - 2 9 10 6 - - 1 Salford Priors GP 4132-2432322 Worcestershire Bredon’s Hardwick 2------1111- Clifton Pits -125--716643 Grimley Pits 3-1--1132221 Holt Sling Pool --12-351-111 John Bennett NR -----4881--1 Kemerton Lake NR ------14--- Longdon Marsh -----44----- Pirton Pool ------11-- Ripple Pits 333--111122- Ryall Pits - - 1 - 1 6 5 4 3 1 - Upton Warren 2331-4764877 Westwood Pool ------22-- Staffordshire Alrewas GP ------711--1 Belvide Res ---1-21111-- Blithfield Res --1--34421-2 Branston GP 3 5 4 1 - 1 9 14 8 10 2 2 Coal Brook - Hales ------651--- Doxey Marshes --1--14322-- Mere Hall ------242--- Middleton Lakes -----145431- River Sow Meadows 1223--1--2-2 Tucklesholme NR --1---1741-- Uttoxeter Quarry 1-12-3554246 Whitemoor Haye 2 ------1 1 - 1 1 West Midlands Bartley Res 1------111-- Marsh Lane NR 1-----421542 Merecote Mill ------11---- Sandwell Valley ------11----

Warks A somewhat mixed year. Perhaps as many as 18 birds were overwintering in the first two months, but later, numbers were down at many sites during spring and autumn passage, with both Brandon and Salford Priors GP in particular having a poor showing. Away from the tabulated sites, there were highs of five at Middleton Pool on June 30th and July 30th, eight at Middle Spernall on August 10th and six on a drained fishpond at Lighthorne Pools on 18th. In all, records came from 30 locations, with reports of two to three at: Alvecote Pools, Dairy Farm, Dosthill Lake, Draycote, Hartshill, Kingsbury WP, Packington Park and Ryton Pools CP. Worcs Birds were reported from widespread sites in all months except May, but numbers were generally low with no double figure counts. Away from tabulated records, singles were at

104 Lower Moor in January, Tiddington Hall Farm Pool and over Stoke Bliss in August, Throckmorton Outer Lagoon in October and on a flash near Frankley, as well as at Queenhill Rough and Redditch in November. Staffs Records of one or two birds were received from 32 other sites throughout the year, other than three at Great Bridgeford on February 3rd, seven at Aston-Burston Trail on July 29th, seven at Aqualate Mere on September 8th, three at Branston Leas on September 26th and three at Brancote STW on November 2nd. Green Sandpiper, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot W Mid On the whole it was a poor year, away from tabulated sites the only records were of singles at Olton Mere on July 30th and Minworth STW on October 22nd.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes 2017 Erratum Warks The bird at Dairy Farm between November 1st and 3rd GJA, SMH was the sixth record for the Region, the fifth having been found earlier in the year on February 5th at Longdon Marsh (Worcs).

Common Redshank Tringa totanus Frequent passage migrant and summer resident. Uncommon winter visitor. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon --432431--2- Draycote --11--111-2- Worcestershire Clifton Pits ----1-----1- Grimley Pits --5546511--- Holt Sling Pool --4422------John Bennett NR - 1 3 3 1 ------Ripple Pits - 4 15 20 16 13 - - - - 1 1 Ryall Pits ----21---1-- Upton Warren -121111----- Staffordshire Alrewas GP 56-2------Belvide Res --1112222-1- Blithfield Res - - - 5 - 3 10 3 1 - - - Branston GP 5 5 25 11 14 11 1 1 1 4 5 4 Branston WP 2-1------311 Chasewater Res --111------Coal Brook - Hales -143221----- Croxall Lakes 563------5

105 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Doxey Marshes --12-111---- Middleton Lakes 1-766911111- Tucklesholme NR --1-44------Uttoxeter Quarry --1--1-1---- Whitemoor Haye 5-732---1--3 West Midlands Marsh Lane NR --46243-----

Warks The only nesting attempt came at Brandon, where a pair successfully fledged three young. The first of the year appeared at Ladywalk NR on February 21st, followed in March by one at Brandon on 13th and two at Charlecote on 17th. Reports came from 15 sites in total, with highs of four adults at Brandon on March 29th and June 17th, and three at Ladywalk NR on July 7th. Away from more regular sites, one flew over the Fenny Compton Hills on April 15th and another was at Bedworth Woodlands on May 28th. Green Sandpiper, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot The final record of the year was two at Brandon on November 17th. Worcs The first returning bird was at John Bennett NR on February 18th. A pair fledged at least one juvenile at Grimley Camp Lane Pits and out of eight pairs at Ripple Pits in April, two pairs attempted to breed but only one chick was seen in early May but not after that. Two pairs also attempted to breed at John Bennett NR but were unsuccessful. Single birds were noted on 15 dates at Upton Warren this year compared to 71 dates in 2017, but two birds were seen only on March 25th. Away from tabulated sites one visited Lower Moor and Wick Wetlands in late March, one was at Pershore - Avon Meadows on April 19th and a single visited Westwood Pool on July 18th. A late bird lingered at Ripple Pits from November 20th until December 5th. Staffs Year 2005 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 7 9 10-13 10 4-5 9 10 15-16 9-10 7 8 11 9 7 Successful 1 1 2 2-4 2 3 5 4 2 4-5 4 3-4 4 0

Breeding occurred at Branston GP (at least one pair on territory), Coal Brook - Hales (two pairs, outcomes unknown) and Middleton Lakes (four territories, no young). Non-tabulated records came from Barton-under-Needwood (two) and Radford Meadows in March; Burton-on-Trent in April; Ingestre (two) in May; Bobbington and Tittesworth Res (two) in July and Barton GP and Rudyard Lake (three) in December. W Mid Three pairs were present on the Car Park Pool islands at Marsh Lane NR during the breeding season. Although one pair nested successfully, producing up to three chicks, these appeared to have been predated with the Black-headed Gull colony likely to have housed the culprit. A colour-ringed bird from 2016 and 2017 was again seen on several dates having originally been ringed as an adult on Thorney Island, West Sussex on October 17th, 2015. Away from Marsh Lane NR it was a poor year with two in the Sandwell Valley on March 25th (and one on April 14th), a single at Upper Gornal on April 8th and finally one at Edgbaston Res on May 27th.

106 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has over-wintered. Amber-listed Warks In a reversal from 2017, birds were seen only on return passage. The first paid a brief visit to Salford Priors GP on July 8th, and a second was also present for one day only at Ladywalk NR on 30th. On August 9th, further individuals arrived at Brandon and Ladywalk NR, the former staying until 13th and the latter last noted on 22nd. Two at Abbots Salford on 16th was a probable site firstBGP . Worcs In spring one visited Grimley Camp Lane Pits on April 27th and was reported again the following day, whilst one flew over Wood Sandpipers, Ripple Pits, Andy Warr Ripple South Pit on May 11th and another was at Holt Sling Pool on 30th. On return passage a juvenile lingered at John Bennett NR from August 1st to 7th and three juveniles spend a short time at Ripple Pits on 4th. A further juvenile, seen briefly at Upton Warren Moors on the morning of August 16th, may have been the same as one at Grimley Camp Lane Pits later on the same day, whilst further birds were found at Upton Warren again on September 4th and Clifton Pits on 5th. Staffs As with last year, a reasonable number of birds were present this year commencing at Belvide Res and Doxey Marshes on April 29th, the latter remaining the following day. In May, two were at Middleton Lakes and one at Whitmore - Bent Lane on 2nd, then at Doxey Marshes on 7th, Knighton Res on 24th and Uttoxeter Quarry on 27th and 28th. An unseasonal bird was at Belvide Res on June 21st. Return passage commenced with two at Middleton Lakes from August 2nd–14th with one remaining until 18th, singles at Blithfield Res from 4th–6th, 10th–11th and 13th, Alrewas GP and Whitemoor Haye on 11th and Doxey Marshes on 12th and 22nd. W Mid The sole county record was a solitary bird which paid a brief visit of 20 seconds to Marsh Lane NR on August 14th before departing northwards Birdguides.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant, very rare in winter. Warks Two juveniles on Engine Pool at Earlswood Lakes on the afternoon of September 5th was a welcome surprise, the species having not been recorded there since 1955 JOa, JHS. Worcs Singles visited Grimley Camp Lane Pits briefly on April 27th MBo and again on May 3rd Spotted Redshank, Earlswood, John Oates

107 JWr, whilst in autumn a juvenile spent less than an hour at John Bennett NR on August 12th GHP. Staffs A better year than most produced birds at Whitemoor Haye on May 5th, a juvenile at Belvide Res on August 23rd, singles at Blithfield Res from 24th–26th, 31st, September 2nd– 12th and 19th, a juvenile at Branston GP from September 1st–9th, two at Middleton Lakes on 5th and one at Belvide Res on October 14th.

Greenshank Tringa nebularia Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon ----1--32--- Ladywalk NR ----111322-- Worcestershire Clifton Pits - - - - 1 1 - - - - Grimley Camp Lane Pits ------1 2 4 - - - John Bennett NR ---11-212--- Ripple Pits ---2---1---- Upton Warren -----11-3--- Staffordshire Belvide Res ---14-1----- Blithfield Res ------5 12 14 1 - - Branston GP ---11-2-4--- Doxey Marshes ------1-12-- Middleton Lakes ---11113-1-- Tucklesholme NR ------141-- Uttoxeter Quarry ----2-112---

Warks An unusual winter record was one at Salford Priors GP on February 15th. Spring passage was restricted to a two-week period in the second half of May. The only site with multiple occurrences was Brandon, birds stopping off on 14th and 27th, with other singles at Bedworth Woodlands from 15th–17th, Ladywalk NR from 24th–27th and Salford Priors GP on 27th. A protracted southbound movement commenced with one at Bedworth Woodlands on June 21st, and extended for over four months, until the last two were at Ladywalk Greenshank, Ripple Pits, Andy Warr NR on October 25th. Brandon had its best autumn passage for a number of years, birds present continuously between August 5th and September 9th, with highs of three on August 9th, 24th and 29th. There was also a good showing at Ladywalk NR, and after one on June 30th and July 6th, two-three were reported regularly from August 20th until September 3rd. Other sites to feature prominently were Salford Priors GP, with five records, Draycote, with four, and Earlswood Lakes, with three. Singles were

108 also recorded at: Alvecote Pools, Dosthill Lake, Middle Spernall, Morton Bagot, Wolston GP and Wormleighton Res. Worcs The first spring record was of two birds at Ripple Pits on April 18th, otherwise away from tabulated sites singles were at Ryall Pits on August 12th and Bredon’s Hardwick on 16th, with another at Upper Bittell Res on 28th. The highest count of the year was a group of four at Camp Lane Pits on September 2nd. Staffs The first spring bird was at Whitmore - Bent Lane on April 14th followed by Middleton Lakes on 16th and the last was at Tucklesholme NR on October 14th. Non-tabulated records were one at Knypersley Res on June 24th, three at Tittesworth Res on 30th, singles at Hill Ridware on July 12th, Aston - Burston Trail on 29th, Gailey Res on August 18th, Mere Hall on 22nd until September 3rd, two at Aqualate Mere on September 8th, one at Branston Leas on 26th and two at Radford Meadows on October 13th. W Mid Marsh Lane NR had a poor spring with none recorded. In contrast there was a good series of records during the autumn, with singles on July 15th, August 15th and 17th, with three on 20th and singles on 24th and from 29th–31st and September 27th. Elsewhere there were just two, at Edgbaston Res on May 27th and Bartley Res on September 1st.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Red-listed Warks It was a good year, and nine records constitutes the best showing since 2009. The middle of March witnessed a large movement throughout the UK, and after four at Earlswood Lakes on 13th, a minimum of 32 were at Draycote on the evening of 16th, although up to 54 may have been present. The last comparable count in the county was 40, also at Draycote in February 1997. After a two-week gap, 25 (including 21 adults) were at Draycote on 31st, with a first-winter there on April 1st and 2nd. One was at Earlswood Lakes on 7th and 8th, Kittiwake, Earlswood, Claire Workman before two adults flying through Napton Res in low cloud and drizzle on 11th were the last of the spring. There were two in the post-breeding season, a juvenile at Draycote on July 27th and an adult at Earlswood Lakes on August 13th. Worcs Just one winter record at Upton Warren, where an adult roosted on January 26th. A strong passage recorded during March and April, the first sighting being two adults at Westwood Pool on March 3rd, an adult remained at Westwood on 4th, an adult was at the Moors Pools, Upton Warren on 13th, adults at Arrow Valley Lake on 15th and 22nd and a sickly first-winter at the Flash Pools - Upton Warren on the morning of April 1st, was found dead a couple of days later. On the 8th, an adult was observed briefly early morning at the Flash Pools, but was chased away by Black-headed Gulls, before two adults arrived at 7.45am, then departed at 9.30am. Additional adults were noted at Sling Pool and Westwood Pool on 8th, whilst back at Upton Warren, an adult visited the Moors Pool mid-afternoon and two adults arrived at the sailing lake late afternoon on 11th. Two autumn reports comprising juveniles at the Flash Pools on August 23rd and another flew along the River Severn at Bevere Island on 25th.

109 Staffs Year 2004 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Birds 12 37 22 8 111 12 11 7 12 29 20 14 9 14 12

Sightings this year were all singles; at Belvide Res on January 18th and April 14th, Swallow Moss on February 1st, Westport Lake on March 16th, 18th and April 8th, Gailey Res on March 17th, Chasewater Res on April 17th and 21st and Blithfield Res on April 20th, June 3rd and July 29th. W Mid A good series of records started with three at Bartley Res on March 13th THM with one on 16th, which may have been the individual from three days previous. At Marsh Lane NR an adult was present for two hours on Car Park Pool on March 22nd PDH and an equally brief adult was seen on April 8th, before departing to the north DJS.

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

Black-headed Gulls, Westport Lake, Dave Emley

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Warwickshire Abbots Salford 110 50 70 40 - 1 5 100 70 30 120 190 Brandon 350 650 430 40 23 15 460 149 85 328 473 950 Earlswood Lakes 180 60 189 17 7 5 102 50 60 103 100 100 Ladywalk NR 60 50 250 12 10 49 200 74 28 111 30 60 Avon Valley Stratford to 126 485 602 - - 1 150 300 50 110 150 110 Welford Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 130 159 163 10 9 8 54 7 30 26 100 100 Avon Meadows 70 37 153 6 16 16 16 32 12 87 53 36 Bewdley, River Severn 150 150 - 5 1 - - - 100 9 - - Bittell Reservoirs 220 2 54 6 6 2 3 48 15 200 148 270 Bredon’s Hardwick 2000 31 250 ------Camp Lane Pits - - 350 - - - 23 23 18 80 14 35 Hunnington Farm and 60 1 - 7 4 ------Fishery

110 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D John Bennett NR - - - 2 - - 14 12 5 28 42 3 Kemerton Lake 3 1 4 1 - - 1 - 7 11 72 61 Lickhill Quarry - 50 30 - 4 6 30 - - - - - Lower Moor - 10 ------13 - Redditch - Oakenshaw - - 18 - - - - 8 2 114 46 - Ripple Pits 1 15 3 200 3 1 4 1 2 267 21 37 Throckmorton Lagoons 115 129 205 41 26 18 71 235 64 980 1200 485 (roost) Upton Warren 400 770 2800 1400 1050 523 300 850 750 900 700 350 Westwood Pool 2500 2000 1200 80 11 - - 450 1500 900 2000 2400 Wythall Park 15 11 - - - - - 1 - 12 29 18 Staffordshire Bateswood CP 140 420 66 - - - 26 45 10 78 60 240 Belvide Res 2000 - 200 150 400 400 165 200 100 350 150 2000 Blithfield Res 80 400 225 - - - 300 1850 258 690 390 55 Branston GP 1500 2500 4000 500 500 35 1035 850 800 1500 2000 3000 Branston WP 36 - 80 400 360 300 29 - - 93 - 200 Burton-on-Trent - 217 40 148 22 8 14 100 - - - 180 Chasewater Res - - 5000 350 48 78 50 - 64 - 10000 15000 Croxall Lakes 71 38 271 - - - - - 10 44 10 4 Doxey Marshes 266 166 357 - 12 100 318 321 80 136 278 136 Gailey Res 120 218 367 1 - 5 31 37 211 180 72 105 Gibbet Wood 150 8 50 - - - - - 25 250 300 150 Knypersley Res 75 135 89 2 1 5 54 66 100 144 129 180 Lichfield - Stowe Pool 80 250 250 - - 10 55 45 - 18 116 112 Middleton Lakes 15 2000 - 200 100 1706 50 - - 20 800 - Radford Meadows 200 150 300 6 10 - - 7 200 150 51 400 River Sow Meadows 114 - 150 - - - 57 - 40 - - 150 Rudyard Lake 83 - - 3 - - 29 10 29 215 150 80 Silverdale CP 250 174 92 - - - 170 80 32 - 24 190 Tittesworth Res 174 80 240 - - - 50 32 12 96 140 480 Trentham Gardens 270 172 117 - - 12 54 216 170 438 292 682 Westport Lake 250 280 186 - - - 123 - - 60 80 - Whitmore - Bent Lane 950 50 150 ------200 - Whitemoor Haye 6 - 157 26 4 2 2 150 155 80 6 6 West Midlands Bartley Res p 3000 p 7 5 10 25 4000 9000 p p p Elmdon Park 106 140 60 34 - 6 - - - 80 p 130 Fens Pool 63 39 88 5 - - 58 12 20 17 60 90 Marsh Lane NR 900 820 1100 2300 1175 500 250 190 245 314 210 275 Netherton Res 280 250 600 1 1 2 6 p 16 26 75 95 Olton Mere 330 435 255 - - 24 266 305 135 140 246 215 Sandwell Valley 310 350 150 7 4 10 250 80 150 350 200 250 Sutton Park NNR 138 318 229 38 35 81 92 136 99 214 228 364 Swanshurst Park 150 200 130 - 1 28 50 90 75 100 280 80

Warks In the Tame Valley, a minimum of 413 nests was counted at Kingsbury WP on Canal and Cliff Pools in mid-May. At Middleton Lakes 294 pairs nested, and although both sites were hit by flooding at the end of May, thankfully those on Canal Pool were seemingly unaffected. At Brandon, a single pair raised three young, the first successful nesting since 2011. The two biggest roost counts at Draycote were c.20,000 on January 29th and c.13,000 on February 17th.

111 In the north, the highest number was 4,500 roosting at Coton Lakes on January 17th, although in the south east the largest numbers were recorded from September onwards, when 800 were on ploughland at Fenny Compton on 27th and 28th, increasing to 1,100 on October 4th, 2,500 were on fields around Wormleighton Res on December 23rd and 900 at Napton Res on 28th. Leucistic birds were noted at Draycote on January 27th and November 15th. Worcs At Lower Moor, seven pairs nested at the leisure park lake, whilst at Upton Warren 334 nests were recorded, with counts made of 350 chicks on May 26th and 300 on June 12th. Five colour ringed birds noted at Upton Warren, an adult on April 5th and 29th was ringed at Cotswold Water Park on June 10th 2013, an adult on May 16th ringed in Berkshire on June 4th 2011, adult on 5th July ringed in Essex on January 17th 2017, adult on September 8th ringed at Cotswold Water Park on June 12th and adult on October 21st ringed in Essex on October 16th 2016. Counts of 20+ away from the tabulated sites comprised 55 at Finstall Park on January 3rd, 37 at on 4th, 145 at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on 7th, 217 at Wood Norton River Meadows on 11th, 24 at Tardebigge Res on 14th, whilst floods at Longdon Marsh held 500 on 27th and 450 on 29th. 40 were noted at Wribbenhall Hill on February 11th, Lutley Wedge held 100+ on 26th, then 145+ on 27th, 22 were at Lickey Hills on March 7th and 450 and 120 at Wood Norton River Meadows on 15th and 20th respectively. During the second winter period, Tardebigge Res held 52 on October 9th, 20+ were at West Midland Safari Park on 21st, 46 and 75 at Little Comberton on November 20th and 26th respectively, 50+ and 130+ at Stakenbridge Lane on December 1st and 15th respectively and 69 at Bodenham Arboretum on 23rd. Small numbers also reported from 21 other sites. Staffs Breeding occurred at Belvide Res where 187 pairs fledged 250–300 juveniles, (up from 55 pairs and four pairs in the past two years), Branston GP (six nests), Branston WP (150–200 pairs), Middleton Lakes (853 nests), Tameside NR (65 pairs) and Tucklesholme NR (35 nests). One of the 4,000 birds in the roost at Branston GP on March 17th was a leucistic bird. Non- tabulated high counts comprised, in February 350 at Tamworth, 262 at Ford Green NR and 200 at Coal Brook - Hales; in March 250 at Curborough; in April 210 at Tameside NR and in October 800 at Keele – Lymes Road and 250 at Gunstone. W Mid Breeding took place at Marsh Lane NR with c.400 nests and over 300 chicks at the height of the breeding season, a slight increase. Elsewhere, breeding took place at Meriden, Ryders Mere and Sandwell Valley with birds present during the breeding season at several other locations. Away from tabulated sites flocks of over 200 were noted as follows: 300 at Meriden on January 25th, 400 Stubber’s Green on 26th, 320 at Berkswell on October 5th and 500 at Edgbaston Res on November 26th.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks Spring passage was more pronounced than in 2017 with around 93 birds, although records came from just three sites and there were surprisingly none in the Warwickshire part of the Tame Valley. A second calendar year was the first arrival at Draycote on March 14th, with the first decent movement coming there on April 6th, when 10 were present. An adult in winter plumage was at Salford Priors GP on 7th, although passage was heaviest by far on 15th, which saw a strong movement across the eastern half of the country. A total of 58 were logged during the day at Draycote, with a group of 16 present only until the early morning mist had lifted, followed by a larger flock of 42 mostly summer-plumaged adults during the evening. Two adults were also at Earlswood Lakes, and another was at Salford Priors GP. Two days later on 17th, there were seven at Draycote and two at Salford Priors GP, with a single adult at Earlswood Lakes on 18th. Further records from Draycote comprised three on 19th, one on 25th, and the last of the spring, two on May 1st. Return passage was restricted to a juvenile at Earlswood Lakes on October 15th.

112 Worcs Adults were discovered at Clifton Pits during the afternoon and at Westwood Pool late afternoon on March 3rd, another adult was at Westwood on the afternoon of April 15th, then presumably this bird roosted at the Flash Pools - Upton Warren in the evening, whilst at the latter locality a second-summer visited the sailing lake also on 15th. The adult was still present at the Flash Pools the next morning, then moved to the Moors Pool and additional sightings here comprised an adult on 18th and a first-summer on May 22nd. A second-summer with an injured leg, arrived at Upton Warren, visiting both the Flash and Moors Pools on June 3rd, then was seen again on the morning of the 5th, visited both Hewell Grange, then Upton Warren on 6th, then was observed most dates at Upton Warren between 7th – 20th. Staffs A better year than last for sightings commenced with a first- winter bird at Belvide Res on March 2nd with two adults there on 17th and one of these remaining on 18th on which day another was present at Gailey Res. The bulk of this year’s sightings occurred in April with three adults at Chasewater Res on 3rd, two at Blithfield Res on 7th, an adult at Doxey Marshes on 10th, a first-winter at Belvide Res on 12th, an adult at Blithfield Res on 17th with two there and at Belvide Res on 18th. In addition, a big influx on April 15th saw two at Alrewas GP, one at Aqualate Mere, three at Little Gull, Earlswood, John Oates Blithfield Res, an adult at Branston GP and two adults at Chasewater Res. May saw six briefly at Aqualate Mere on 4th, two at Chasewater Res on 5th and a first-winter at Middleton Lakes on 7th, then in June an adult was at Middleton Lakes on 27th. The last bird was a first-winter at Blithfield Res on September 6th and 7th. W Mid Bartley Res played host to an adult on April 7th SHa, with a further adult at Upper Gornal the same day CCI. There was a brief sighting at Marsh Lane NR on April 18th GPR, with five at Fens Pool NR the following day Birdguides. The only other records were of an adult at Reedswood Park on May 5th EOSB, one at Bartley Res on 22nd Birdguides and finally one at Clayhanger Marsh on June 21st Birdguides.

Mediterranean Gull Icthyaetus melanocephalus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor; rare/scarce breeder. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Staffordshire Belvide Res --132321211- Branston GP --22----1--- Chasewater Res 2221---11121 Gailey Res ----1-1-1--1 Middleton Lakes --2224------West Midlands Bartley Res ------41-11- Marsh Lane NR 111654111---

113 Warks A pair were present again in the Black-headed Gull colony at Middleton Lakes on Fisher’s Mill from early April, having relocated from the Staffs section of the reserve. Although mating and nest scraping was observed, no eggs were laid and both were not seen after 27th. A day later, a third calendar year bird arrived and held territory for a couple of weeks but failed to attract a mate. Birds were generally thin on the ground during the first winter period, most records not surprisingly coming from Draycote. However, even here the maxima were only two adults on a few days in February and March. Elsewhere, in January, an adult roosted at Coton Lakes on 17th and 19th, with a second winter on 29th. In March, a first-winter was at Napton Res on 16th, and may also have been the same individual on 25th, with an unsexed bird at Kingsbury WP on 19th. A summer-plumaged adult was on sheep pasture between Sawbridge and Willoughby on April 3rd, with a second-summer at Kingsbury WP on 8th and 21st. Excluding the Middleton birds, there were no further sightings until a juvenile was at Salford Priors GP on July 15th, followed by one at Saxon Mill (Warwick) on August 1st. The only bird in the second half of the year at Draycote was a second winter on three dates in the second half of August, with the final record an adult at Brandon on December 10th. Worcs Recorded at Upton Warren throughout the breeding season, but with no serious nesting attempts, plus noted on 67 dates during the year. Sightings from here comprised adults on most dates between March 13th–April 2nd, including a second adult on March 24th and 29th, a first-summer from April 22nd–May 13th, a second-summer on April 24th, May 1st and 11th, a new first- summer on 9th, 10th and 12th, an adult on 12th, a second-summer on 15th, a first-summer on 28th and an adult on 31st. An adult was noted on June 5th and 6th, three adults and two second-summers on 7th, an Mediterranean Gull, Draycote, John Judge adult and second-summer from 8th - 16th, a second-summer on 20th, an adult on 22nd and 23rd, a second-summer on 26th and one on July 1st. In August a second-summer was noted on 2nd, a juvenile on 20th and a second- summer on 30th and the final bird was reported on September 5th. Elsewhere, an adult was on floodwater by the River Avon at Wood Norton on March 15th, an adult roosted at Westwood Pool on 22nd, a first-summer at Ripple Pits on April 14th, an adult at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on September 15th and a first-winter at Ripple Pits on October 28th. Staffs Two pairs nested at Middleton Lakes but there was no evidence of any young and at Belvide Res a pair commenced nest building but were muscled out by a pair of Black-headed Gulls. In addition, a second-summer bird displayed to Black-headed Gulls at Belvide Res for three weeks but got no further than that. Non-tabulated birds comprised one at Trentham Gardens on February 7th, an adult at Doxey Marshes on 12th, one at Berry Hill - Botteslow Flash on 26th, a juvenile at Blithfield Res on July 21st and 22nd, one at Trentham Gardens on October 2nd and a juvenile at Endon STW on December 9th. W Mid During the breeding season two pairs were present from mid-April at Marsh Lane NR. One pair laid but failed to hatch with the other pair appearing not to have nested at all. The first of the year was also at Marsh Lane NR on January 7th and 8th, with another seen briefly on February 21st, then from late-March appearances were regular with the aforementioned two pairs present. These were joined occasionally by two sub-adult birds until sightings dropped

114 sharply from June onwards. At Bartley Res, an adult and three juveniles were seen on July 12th, with three more sightings to the year’s end. Away from tabulated sites it was a poor year; a colour-ringed bird was present for its fifth year at Olton Mere on August 8th and 27th and the only other records came from Sandwell Valley, with birds noted on July 26th, August 27th–28th, October 2nd and finally on November 1st and 6th.

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

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Avon Meadows 2 31 1 ------1 1 Camp Lane Pits 1-1-----15-- Kemerton Lake -22------139 Ripple Pits - - 1 50 - - - - - 4 - 1 Westwood Pool 128------13 Staffordshire Bateswood CP 12 18 10 - - - 1 1 - 2 9 12 Belvide Res - 5 8 ------10 6 - Blithfield Res 6 2 10 1 ------Branston GP 3 8 18 1 - 1 3 1 2 4 2 5 Chasewater Res 38 16 35 2 1 - - - 1 - 145 10 Doxey Marshes 2221--211322 Middleton Lakes -15------3-4 Tittesworth Res 22 15 12 ------6 Uttoxeter Quarry 3 - 1 96 - - - 2 - 1 - - West Midlands Bartley Res 6 7 9 - - - 1 - - 1 20 11 Marsh Lane NR 31 7 20 2 - - - 2 2 2 16 43 Olton Mere 6 10 8 - - - - - – 2 5 6

Warks Flocks of up to 100 were commonly seen in the south-east during the winter months, west to the Avon valley at Barford. In the first winter period, numbers peaked here in March, when large flocks of migrants went through. The best counts included 300 at Napton Res on February 7th, 300 on flooded fields at Priors Hardwick on March 10th, 750 at Napton Res on 16th and 1200 on sheep pasture at Priors Hardwick on 31st. The only roost counts at Draycote were c.8,000 on January 29th and c.6,000 on February 20th, with a partially Common Gull, Rudyard Lake, Steve Seal leucistic bird reported on March 17th. In the north of the county, where numbers are always smaller, maxima were limited to 46 roosting at Coton Lakes on January 19th and 30 at Astley on March 21st and 23rd. A flock of 26, consisting of 25 adults and a first summer at Earlswood Lakes on April 16th was notable, and 27 immatures on sheep pasture at Priors Hardwick on May 5th were very late. After only a

115 handful of records in June and July, nine were at Napton Res on August 18th. In the south west, the peak day for passage at Coleman’s Hill was November 3rd, when 207 were logged passing over. In the south-east, large numbers also arrived during the month, including 150 at Fenny Compton on 12th and 400 at Napton Res on 23rd. Two large counts in December were 1300 in the Wormleighton Res area on 23rd and 1,100 at Napton Res on 28th, with 100 at Compton Verney on 31st a good number for the site. The highest numbers elsewhere were 23 at Salford Priors GP on October 3rd, 22 at Astley on 25th, 40 at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on 30th and 63 at Brandon on December 15th. Worcs Reasonable numbers of passage birds recorded during March and April and away from the tabulated sites one was at Arrow Valley Lake on March 2nd, 14 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 3rd, ten at Lower Moor River Meadows on 14th, 22 at Wood Norton River Meadows on 15th, 26 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th and one at Arrow Valley Lake, plus nine at Bredon’s Hardwick on 18th. Totals peaked in April with 179 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 1st, 40 and 75 at Lower Moor River Meadows on 3rd and 5th respectively, 150+ at Longdon Marsh on 7th, 110 over Upton Warren and 60 at Clifton Pits on 13th, eight at Upton Warren on 17th, then four here on 18th. Singles reported from Lickhill Quarry on July 1st, Upton Warren on 18th, August 22nd and October 3rd, two at Lower Moor River Meadows on November 4th, one at Bevere Island on 25th and one at Bittell Reservoirs on December 8th. Staffs Birds were reported in single figures at 15 other sites. W Mid It was generally regarded as a good year at Marsh Lane NR. Elsewhere, there appeared to be little change in status. Away from tabulated sites birds were recorded in small numbers at 25 additional sites during the winter months.

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Rare vagrant (4/10). Staffs The bird which has been touring the Midlands during winter since 2012 was again present at Belvide Res from December 27th–31st.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Fairly common winter visitor, scarce in summer. Rare breeding species. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Throckmorton Tip 71 1 3+ - - - - 2 - 6+ 18 54 Staffordshire Belvide Res 2111-----p11 Blithfield Res 222-23631213 Branston GP 350 100 50 10 - - 1 - 40 100 200 150 Chasewater Res P 1 14 - - - - - 1 p 8 300 Doxey Marshes 121----1---- Whitemoor Haye 280 5 40 ------2 4 West Midlands Bartley Res 18 - 1 1 - - - - 1 4 2 6 Marsh Lane NR 432----11223 Sandwell Valley 111-11-1-18p Stubber’s Green 33 p 2 - - - - - p p p 3

Warks It was an exceptional year at Brandon with unprecedented numbers present early in the morning during both winter periods. Maxima were 190 on January 20th and 237 on December 20th, which may perhaps suggest a change in the local population’s day to day habits. Very

116 few records were received from Draycote, but 100 were presumably roosting on February 1st. The only other double figure counts came in November, when 10 adults flew north at Fenny Compton on 26th and 25 were at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on 30th. In total birds were observed at 20 sites, with June the only blank month. Worcs Sightings away from Throckmorton Tip (see table) comprised one at Westwood Pool on January 1st, three at Lower Moor Leisure Park from 1st–15th, then two here on 22nd and one on 23rd, two at Pershore - Avon Meadows on 4th, plus singles at Kemerton Lake on 19th, Stakumford Marsh on 26th, John Bennett NR on February 6th, Westwood Pool on 28th and Camp Lane Pits on March 11th. During the second winter period, singles reported at Bevere Island on October 19th, Westwood Pool on November 4th, and Pershore - Avon Meadows on 22nd and 30th. Staffs Birds were seen at 10 other sites, the best being six at Silverdale CP on December 16th. W Mid Away from tabulated sites the only significant count was of an exceptional 85 which flew north over Berkswell between 09.45hrs and 10.00hrs on December 31st. Elsewhere up to four were noted at Alexander Stadium, Brandwood Cemetery, Brookvale Park, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Pool, Perry Hall Park, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park NNR and Witton Lakes.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Warks Although not as numerous as the following species during the first winter period, it was another good showing at Draycote following the county record influx at the same stage in 2017. The first of the year, an adult, was found on January 2nd JFCJ, TMa, and was also seen later in the month at Weston landfill TMa. By the end of February, an additional five birds had been noted roosting at the reservoir, comprising a further adult and four juveniles TdeC, JFCJ, TMa. At the end of the year, two roosted at Draycote in December, a second-winter on 11th and an adult from 28th–30th TMa. Both were also seen during this period at Shawell (Leics). Worcs A juvenile was discovered on fields along Lane, Cookley on February 28th TMH, GHP and was relocated at Kidderminster STW on March 1st SMi. Staffs The only birds this year were a juvenile at Branston GP on January 20th DAS and an adult there on March 4th DAS. W Mid A juvenile was present at Bartley Res on March 6th and was present on most evenings until April 3rd TMH, MJI.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks The first quarter saw a large arrival into the country, and a total of 13 individuals at Draycote came very close to the previous maximum of 14 there in 2012 TdeC, JFCJ, TMa. A second-winter seen at the very end of 2017 was present again on January 3rd JFCJ, TMa, with another on March 8th and 10th TdeC, TMa. The remaining birds were split evenly between adults and juvenile/first-winters. The best Iceland Gull, Swanshurst Park, Hughie King

117 roost count came on March 8th, when at least five birds, consisting of an adult, at least three juveniles and a second winter were present TdeC, TMa. Two juveniles were still roosting on April 8th JFCJ, TMa, with one lingering as late as May 16th TdeC, JFCJ. Away from Draycote, there were two records. A juvenile at Salford Priors GP on January 21st was the first record for the site and thought likely to be the same individual seen at Throckmorton Tip (Worcs) a couple of days later JJB. An adult at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on March 13th and 14th was thought to be an additional bird to those at Draycote on accounts of its bill length and primary projection TMa. Worcs A juvenile visited Throckmorton Tip on January 22nd and 23rd PLe, MLe et al, the same bird was noted at Lower Moor on 23rd RAP and Pershore - Avon Meadows held an adult on March 15th THu. Staffs Juveniles were present at Branston GP DAS and Chasewater Res SAR on January 13th. A second-winter bird was present at Chasewater Res on 20th and again on 27th, February 1st– 5th, 16th, 25th–27th, March 18th–24th, and April 1st–3rd many observers. In addition, this site held a juvenile on February 16th, the same or another from March 1st–11th, an adult from 12th– 14th and a juvenile on April 1st many observers. Elsewhere, there was a juvenile at Silverdale CP on January 22nd NDP, an adult at Walley’s Landfill on February 6th DKe, a juvenile at Westport Lake on March 4th DKe with an adult there on 19th JMa and a second/third winter on 28th KSt. The last spring birds were an adult and juvenile as Branston GP on April 8th DAS, JWo and another juvenile there on DAS, JWo. W Mid A typical series of records from Bartley Res, all occurring during the first winter period. Firstly, a long-staying second-winter seen on January 1st was noted until February 14th ACu, TMH. A juvenile present on January 5th alongside the long-staying second-winter TMH, followed by a different second-winter bird on January 24th SPR, TMH. A new juvenile was first seen on January 25th and remained until March 6th ACu. A new first-winter was seen on February 12th TMH, with a second-winter on February 28th TMH and finally a second-winter was noted on March 23rd ACu. The returning second-winter bird was present at Swanshurst Park from the turn of the year until last reported on April 3rd many observers. This bird roosted at Bartley Res until February 14th, and presumably the same bird relocated to Edgbaston Pool where seen on February 22nd and 24th. It was then seen on at least 14 occasions at Edgbaston Res, until the last record on April 29th many observers. Another bird (unspecified age) was seen at Parkes Hall Res on January 8th CRe, presumably the same bird was seen the same day in Sedgley. An unaged bird was at Woodsetton on January 8th and Stubber’s Green played host to similarly unaged individuals on January 23rd and March 14th Birdguides. A bird showing characteristics of Kumlien’s Gull was seen at Woodsetton between January 17th and 20th, with presumably the same bird at Parkes Hall Res on 17th CRe.

Kumlien’s Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni Rare winter visitor (6/10) Staffs A juvenile commuted between Walley’s Landfill and nearby Silverdale CP on February 6th and 7th DKe.

Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and an uncommon breeding species.

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 2 - 2 2 ------2 20 Avon Meadows 11 5 4 9 5 9 5 - - 10 62 10 Bittell Reservoirs - - - - - 2 - 2 1 3 12 25

118 Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Clifton Pits ---3------3- John Bennett NR -1--12----7- Kemerton Lake 11 92 34 120 95 5 7 16 6 5 63 29 Lickhill Quarry - 5 14 2 9 9 15 - - - - - Ripple Pits --- 11 10 6 68 1 - - - - Throckmorton Tip 500 325 400+ 215 194 175 210 325 500+ 600+ 600 240 Upton Warren 11 9 12 5 4 5 67 80 140 100 14 6 Westwood Pool 270 450 450 11 - - - 1 120 16 202 367 Staffordshire Audley - 2 10 20 ------Belvide Res 50 30 - - 2 - 1 - - - - 6 Branston GP 250 50 200 100 2 2 5 2 15 100 400 200 Chasewater Res - - 400 3 1 4 14 - 4 - 2000 1300 Silverdale CP 40 150 6 2 - 3 1 8 4 14 3 50 Trentham Gardens 3 6 6 - - 2 3 - - 2 3 35 Whitmore - Bent Lane 35 15 2 ------West Midlands Bartley Res p 400 p 20 3 8 7 10 80 p p p Fens Pools 3 9 6 10 24 10 5 5 2 2 4 4 Marsh Lane NR 37 8 5 10 10 1 14 2 2 4 13 12 Netherton Res 8 2 30 3 2 2 12 3 4 3 5 4 Olton Mere 27 19 9 9 13 17 11 - 1 3 10 5 Sandwell Valley 9 11 8 10 40 20 2 4 5 9 5 5

Warks Little in the way of notable records were received. At Coton Lakes 170 roosted on January 3rd and the highest number at Brandon was 136 early in the morning on February 1st. Although no full roost counts were attempted at Draycote, at least two leucistic individuals were present during the first winter period. Later in the year the only significant count was 100 on the Dallas Burston Polo Grounds near Southam on November 18th. Worcs No breeding data received. Away from the tabulated localities, the best counts comprised 20+ at Martley Nubbins on February 9th, 80 at Wribbenhall Hill on 11th, 15 at Blackstone on April 8th, 80 at Little Malvern on October 13th and 30+ at West Midland Safari Park on 21st. Smaller numbers reported from 35 other sites. Staffs There were few roost counts from the reservoirs this year. As last year, a pair bred on roofing at the Royal Stoke Hospital this year with a juvenile being seen. The only other significant count was 3,400 at Poplars Tip on December 31st. W Mid Away from tabulated sites the species was recorded at a further 74 locations, additionally birds were present at fifteen sites during the breeding season. High counts away from tabulated sites were as follows: 75 at Stubber’s Green on January 26th, 40 at Zoo on May 29th and 50 at Berkswell on December 31st.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Uncommon autumn and winter visitor Warks Records came from the usual haunts. At Brandon, a first winter bird was seen on three days in mid-January, with another three months later on April 28th. There were further sightings on September 16th and October 21st, and a near adult was present from November 3rd to the end of the year, with two on November 10th and December 2nd BMVCT. At Draycote in the first half of the year, birds were noted in the roost fairly regularly between January 2nd and April 26th. Numbers varied but included at least two adults and three each

119 of first and second-winter birdsper CEH. After a mid-summer hiatus, a first-summer bird was roosting on August 1st. Subsequently, the highest number in the roost was five, comprising of an adult, second-winter and three first-winters on November 24th per CEH. Elsewhere, a first-winter bird watched closely on the water at Napton Res on March 16th was thought to be the same individual seen the day before at Boddington Res (Northants) JJB. At Bubbenhall Meadow NR, four adults were present on November 6th TMa, with an unverified report of three unsexed birds on 30th. December records consisted of a second-winter at Bubbenhall Meadow NR on 11th TMa, another at Napton Res on 28th JJB and two adults at Salford Priors GP on 30th JJB. Worcs A third-winter roosted at Westwood Pool on February 28th WDu, a third-summer was noted at the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on August 14th and 15th, JHWR, DAJ with a different bird here on the 17th and again on the 19th PLe. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Belvide Res ------131 Blithfield Res ------1-13 Chasewater Res 242----1-355 Kingswood Pool / Poplars Tip - - 1 ------1 3 3

The birds at Kingswood Pool / Poplars Tip probably roosted at Chasewater Res. Numbers were low in the first winter period but picked up in the second, where numbers were about average if still a bit lower than usual. Additional records were a near adult at Walley’s Landfill on February 6th, one at Westport Lake on March 2nd, a second-winter at Doxey Marshes on October 5th, an adult at Silverdale CP on November 27th, a second-winter at Branston GP on 29th (previously seen at Chasewater Res on 26th) with a juvenile there on December 6th. W Mid At Bartley Res the year started with two first-winter birds on January 4th TMH, ACu, followed by a series of records during the first winter period, with a third-winter on 15th ACu, a second-winter on 19th TMH, a first-winter on 22nd ACu, a third-winter on February 1st TMH, a first-winter on 12th and 18th TMH and finally a second-winter on March 7th ACu. There was only one record during the second winter period, a first-winter at Bartley Res on October 13th TMH. Elsewhere, a bird (unaged) was seen at Earlsdon between January 16th and 18th and finally, another unaged bird was seen at Edgbaston Res on March 23rd KPa.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis Frequent and increasing late summer, autumn and winter visitor. Amber-listed

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Warwickshire Brandon 1-211-112132 Draycote 5 4 2 4 3 3 17 25 6 8 4 6 Kingsbury WP 1-----222211 Worcestershire Westwood Pool 122-----1132 Throckmorton Tip 2 - 2+ - - 2 - 5 5 3 2 1 Upton Warren --1-1144222- Bittell Reservoirs ------1---22 Staffordshire Belvide Res 2 2 - - - - 1 1 - 10 8 4 Blithfield Res -2----464212

120 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Branston GP 212--3413544 Chasewater Res 8 10 6 3 - - 2 3 - 1 6 6 Doxey Marshes -1--11---2-- Silverdale CP 2-2---2---13 Other Sites 51-1-2132532 West Midlands Bartley Res 452----15454 Olton Mere 11----11---- Sandwell Valley 111---1-----

Warks The Kingsbury records included the normal adult returning to Bodymoor Heath Water for its tenth winter on July 2nd, a week earlier than usual. At the start of the year it had last been seen on January 15th. Away from the tabulated sites, an adult and third-winter were at Napton Res on February 7th, at least three different birds frequented Salford Priors GP in September and October and an adult and first-winter were at Shustoke Res on October 11th. Single birds were also noted occasionally at: Alvecote Pools, Birchmoor, Bubbenhall Meadow Yellow-legged Gull, Draycote, Bob Hazell NR, Coton Lakes, Dairy Farm, Earlswood Lakes and Fenny Compton. Worcs Away from the table, singles reported from Bredon’s Hardwick, where a first-winter was present on March 4th, an adult was at Ripple Pits on May 26th, a second-summer frequented Sling Pool on many dates between June 18th – July 18th, plus visited South Quay on the River Severn in Worcester on July 8th. Camp Lane Pits held an adult on August 21st, one was at Tardebigge Res on September 23rd and a second-winter at Arrow Valley Lake on December 29th. Staffs Records from “other sites” were two at Westport Lake and Whitemoor Haye and one at Whitmore - Bent Lane in January; singles at Amington and Westport Lake in February; one at Middleton Lakes in June; one at Coal Brook - Hales in July; one at Gailey Res and two at Uttoxeter Quarry in August; one at Tucklesholme NR and Whitemoor Haye in September; two at Croxden Quarry and three at Trentham Gardens in October; two at Kingswood Pool and one at Whitemoor Haye in November and one at Trentham Gardens and Kingswood Pool in December. W Mid Away from tabulated sites birds were recorded from six other locations with a maximum of two at Edgbaston Pool on five occasions between January 15th and February 25th and one in Coventry on January 16th. The Swanshurst Park “Gull” was seen on January 21st; this “educational” bird has been subject to a lot of debate as to its origins and although a Yellow- legged Gull in lineage in its younger days, it has at times shown characteristics of Caspian Gull. In the second half of the year, singles at Edgbaston Res on August 21st (and November 14th), in Sutton Park NNR on 23rd and an adult at Marsh Lane NR on November 11th.

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

Monthly maxima J F M A M J J A S O N D Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake 5 22 29+ 6 9 5 3 1 4 - 4 8 Avon Meadows 20 13 16 12 17 14 9 16 9 10 23 9 Beckford NR -2-1-61-1-1- Bittell Reservoirs 8 1 7 3 3 60 5 6 7 7 158 268 Bredon’s Hardwick - - 100 - - 1 1 - - 4 - - Camp Lane Pits 2 - 2 ------1 - Clifton Pits - - - 10 - - - 5 - - 1 - John Bennett NR 7 1 2 4 1 1 5 1 3 Kemerton Lake 2 10 3 95 22 4 6 12 5 4 15 11 Lickhill Quarry - 15 16 5 25 126 210 - - - - - Redditch Oakenshaw 11 - 9 7 6 6 - 4 9 47 3 - Ripple Pits - - - 10 20 - 53 36 4 - - - Throckmorton Tip 140 120 46 60 47 42 35 150+ 600+ 800+ 1000+ 250+ Upton Warren 43 20 200 107 10 10 550 320 360 60 10 9 Westwood Pool 230 450 650 8 - - - - 450 47 60 162 3 2 4 1 - - 1 - - 1 - 15 Staffordshire Alrewas 14 16 - 3 - - - 93 21 - 3 178 Blithfield Res 6 50 22 - 12 - 16 6 62 305 - - Branston GP 300 200 400 200 20 220 200 200 400 1000 800 1000 Chasewater Res - - 2600 11 86 34 110 - 150 - 7200 3800 Coal Brook - Hales - 15 - - - - 21 - - 141 - 25 Doxey Marshes - 10 10 16 24 49 16 20 12 - 197 519 Silverdale CP 234 1000 320 6 4 58 22 100 30 180 170 500 Whitmore - Bent Lane 570 90 ------50 100 West Midlands Bartley Res p 500 15 91 85 40 155 250 700 p p p Fens Pools 4 34 45 52 90 40 52 27 39 11 12 8 Marsh Lane NR 100 20 19 31 78 7 10 70 30 40 16 51 Netherton Res 14 26 70 17 12 28 18 10 30 4 17 8 Olton Mere 55 54 102 112 124 155 183 288 15 21 35 51 Sandwell Valley 35 33 20 20 70 90 80 25 25 30 25 15 Sutton Park NNR 40 9 11 3 37 48 4 8 27 35 19 23

Warks Breeding again occurred at Salford Priors GP, where one pair successfully reared two young and a second pair deserted in early June during the incubation stage. The only significant report from the north of the county was 320 roosting at Coton Lakes on January 3rd. At Draycote, c.3,000 roosted on February 23rd, with a minimum of 700 in late summer on August 22nd. In the south-east, maxima on ploughland included 470 at Stoneton on August 27th and 750 at Fenny Compton on September 27th and 28th. Other casual counts included 196 at Dunsmore Heath on February 5th, 127 attracted to a field under plough at Kinwarton on August 17th and a peak of 140 at Salford Priors GP on November 11th. A juvenile had to be rescued at Earlswood Lakes in August after becoming stuck in exposed mud. Worcs No breeding data received. Small numbers reported from hundreds of localities across the county, the best counts away from the table comprised 100+ noted at Wood Street, Malvern on January 18th, 17 at Lower Moor on February 18th, 15 at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on March 24th,

122 15 along Canal between Upper Bittell and Alvechurch on April 20th, 36 at Sling Pool on June 13th, 100+ and 32 at Wythall, Chapel Lane & Hill Lane on August 14th and September 14th respectively and 25 at Little Buckland on November 12th. Staffs At least six pairs bred on roofing at the Royal Stoke Hospital with at least two chicks being seen. Other non-tabulated large counts were 195 at Keele - Lymes Road on September 18th with 400 there on October 18th, 1,500 roosting at Belvide Res on November 15th with Lesser Black-backed Gull, Westport Lake, David Emley 130 there on December 12th and 138 at Radford Meadows on December 26th. W Mid The urban breeding population is well established with breeding taking place in Birmingham, Solihull, and Wolverhampton, although numbers were not recorded. Away from these areas two pairs attempted to breed at Marsh Lane NR but were unsuccessful. Many of the reservoirs hold higher numbers during the late summer when adult numbers are bolstered by the season’s young. Elsewhere, birds were plentiful throughout the year, both during and outside the breeding season. Significant counts away from tabulated sites included 105 at Kingfisher CP on January 1st, 65 at Edgbaston Pool on February 25th,129 in Birmingham City Centre on June 29th, c.250 during July at Edgbaston Res, 72 in Small Heath Park on July 1st, 67 roosting in an arable field at High Ash (North Meriden) on August 17th and finally 26 in Swanshurst Park on November 26th.

‘Intermediate’ Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius Warks Three confirmed records were received. The first was an adult at Fenny Compton on February 12th JJB. In the post-breeding season, a fourth calendar year individual, possibly a Dutch intergrade, was at Earlswood Lakes on September 7th JOa, while an adult was at Hodnell on December 2nd JJB. Worcs Three at Throckmorton Tip on October 28th GHP.

‘Baltic Gull’ Larus fuscus fuscus Worcs An adult showing strong characteristics of this race was found at Camp Lane Pits on October 12th BRS, but departed soon after its discovery.

Hybrid Gulls

Black-headed Gull x Mediterranean Gull Warks In March at least two were in the county, with records from both Brandon and Draycote. Another was at Draycote on August 22nd. Worcs An adult paired with a Black-headed Gull was at the Flash Pools, Upton Warren, where eggs were laid, but didn’t hatch. Present here from March 19th–June 13th, and again on July 7th.

Caspian Gull x Herring Gull Warks One roosted at Draycote on August 19th and 20th. Staffs a juvenile hybrid was at Branston GP on November 20th.

123 Lesser Black-backed x Herring Gull Warks One was noted at Draycote on January 6th. Staffs A hybrid was seen at Silverdale CP on December 13th.

Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis Scarce passage migrant. Amber-listed Warks One that flew north-east over Fenny Compton in a spell of very windy weather on April 17th was a first for the parish JJB. It was followed three days later on the 20th by a group of three making a brief appearance at Earlswood Lakes JOa. Another party of three flew through to the east at Draycote on the evening of August 14th TdeC. Worcs A good year recorded for this usually scarce species and all but the final sighting came from Upton Warren. Two were observed briefly on the sailing lake on April 7th JTB, DJa, singles at the Flash Pools on 18th AGib, MJI, and 20th DJa, DJe, five at the Flash Pools on May 8th including a bird ringed at Coquet Island on June 14th 2015 JTB, four at the sailing lake on August 30th APi and at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits, three were observed briefly on September 8th MBo. Staffs Belvide Res hosted one on April 11th and June 8th and two on July 7th. W Mid The only record was of a bird seen at Bartley Res on April 18th Birdguides

Little Tern Sternula albifrons Scarce passage migrant. Amber-listed Warks One at Alvecote Pools on May 20th was the only sighting RLS. Staffs One was present at Blithfield Res on April 19thMDJ , GJM, the next at Belvide Res on May 16th SNu and the last at Blithfield Res on May 29thGJM .

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant. Uncommon or frequent as a breeding species. Amber-listed

Long-term average: April 8th (34) to October 10th (34) 8-year average: April 3rd (5 days earlier) to October 9th (1 day earlier) First arrival: April 7th; Belvide Res (Staffs), Ripple Pits (Worcs) Last departure: October 20th; Branston GP (Staffs)

Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Worcestershire Arrow Valley Lake ---12-2----- Camp Lane Pits ---444554--- Grimley Old Workings - - - 3 2 5 2 4 - - - - Upton Warren - - - 6 17 4 6 5 4 1 - - Staffordshire Alrewas GP ---92622---- Belvide Res --- 11 28 22 30 12 3 - - - Blithfield Res - - - 9 30 25 50 55 10 - - - Branston GP - - - 1 9 5 53 55 3 1 - - Chasewater Res - - - 8 15 4 8 3 2 - - - Gailey Res - - - 6 8 12 20 4 - - - - Middleton Lakes - - - 5 10 2 5 - - - - - Tittesworth Res ---255913---

124 Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Tucklesholme - - - 1 10 24 34 3 - - - - Uttoxeter Quarry ----338----- Whitemoor Haye ----51731--- West Midlands Marsh Lane NR - - - 37 36 16 41 25 - - - - Olton Mere ---1-221---- Sandwell Valley ---2-3-1----

Warks It was an excellent breeding season at Brandon, where eight pairs took advantage of three new tern rafts and hatched 18 young, most of which were thought to have fledged successfully. The installation of a raft at Ladywalk NR also brought success, a pair successfully fledging two young for what was the sites first breeding record. Despite flooding at the end of May, the colony at Kingsbury WP had better fortunes later in the summer, and 14 pairs with eggs or young were counted on Cliff Pool on July 14th. A pair was also present at nearby Common Tern, Draycote, Bob Hazell Middleton Lakes. Although a pair displayed at Salford Priors GP in June and July, and there were regular sightings at Draycote, there was no nesting attempt at either. There was an early spring arrival, with singles at Brandon and Kingsbury WP on April 5th, although it was not until mid-month that birds started being reported on a daily basis. Away from nesting sites, maxima included six at Earlswood Lakes on 14th, seven at Shustoke Res on 28th, four at Napton Res on August 7th and 32 at Draycote on 19th. Most had departed the county by the end of August, but the last of the year was at Ryton Pools CP on September 24th. Worcs Bred successfully at Grimley Old Working and Upton Warren, where a pair hatched three chicks, two of which reached fledging at the Moors Pool. Away from the table, Ripple Pits held spring passage birds on April 7th (two), 17th, 28th and May 12th, two were at Westwood Pool from April 26th–28th, plus two here on May 14th and one at Lower Park Farm Fisheries also on 14th. One was along the canal between Porters Mill and Hawford on June 6th, two at Upper Bittell Res on July 11th, two at John Bennett NR on 28th, nine at Upper Bittell Res on August 13th and two at Ripple Pits on 25th. Staffs Breeding occurred at Belvide Res (14 pairs attempted, seven hatched chicks of which 13 fledged), Blithfield Res (four–five Common Tern, Draycote, Bob Hazell

125 pairs with 13 chicks), Branston GP (one pair on territory but abandoned), Middleton Lakes (five pairs attempted, two pairs fledged two young), Tittesworth Res (one pair with two young), Tucklesholme NR (12 pairs nested, outcomes unknown) and Uttoxeter Quarry (three pairs attempted, one fledging two young). The first arrival was at Belvide Res on April 7th, followed by one at Chasewater Res and three at Middleton Lakes on 13th. Birds turned up at many sites during the rest of April in smaller numbers than usual, the best being 11 at Belvide Res on 23rd. Numbers remained subdued in May, the best being 15 at Chasewater Res on 2nd and 23 at Blithfield Res on 12th. The best count from the non-tabulated sites was 20 at Barton GP on May 26th. The last birds were singles at Branston GP from October 11th–14th and 20th. W Mid Up to 18 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR and there were estimated to be 32 young. Of these 18 survived and were colour-ringed. In August, two of these were located at Seaforth, Lancashire. Away from tabulated sites birds were recorded in small numbers at: Barston, Bartley Res, Berkswell, Clayhanger Marsh, Edgbaston Res, Hampton in Arden, Mercote Mill, Meriden, NEC Lake, Perry Hall Park, Ravenshaw, Stubber’s Green and Sutton Park NNR.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant in highly variable numbers. Amber-listed Warks The first of the year was at Brandon on April 7th, with another there two days later on 9th. Birds were recorded at five sites before the end of the month, although 19 at Draycote on 28th was the only decent count, with other maxima five at Shustoke Res also on 28th and six at Kingsbury WP on 29th. One was also at Salford Priors GP on 27th. In what was largely a disappointing spring passage through the county, a movement of around 110 at Draycote on May 2nd shone like a beacon. In contrast, the only birds in the Tame Valley on Arctic Tern, Clifton Pits, Andy Warr this day were nine at Kingsbury WP. Numbers had dropped to just nine by the following day at Draycote, and the last of the period was also here on 30th. Return passage was particularly poor, with just three records, all singles at Draycote. The first was on August 19th, followed by juveniles on 24th and September 22nd. Worcs Spring passage commenced on April 25th with two at the sailing lake at Upton Warren, plus another at the Moors Pool on 26th. Singles visited Ripple Pits on 27th and Westwood Pool on 28th, two were at Upton Warren Flash Pools on 29th, five+ flew through Upton Warren on May 2nd, two at the Moors Pool on 10th, one at Camp Lane Pits on 12th, one at Westwood Pool on 14th, two through Upton Warren and four at Westwood Pool on 25th and one briefly at Throckmorton Outer Lagoons on 26th. In June, one was at Sling Pool on 8th, a first-summer at Clifton Pits on 17th, plus two adults and a second-summer at Camp Lane Pits on 18th. Autumn sightings comprised one through Camp Lane Pits on August 18th, a juvenile at Westwood Pool on September 18th, an adult at Ripple Pits and a juvenile at Clifton Pits on 22nd and five juveniles through Camp Lane Pits on 29th. Staffs This year’s total count of 263 was about average compared with 203, 346, 69, 360, 156, 630+, 144 and 100 in the past eight years. The first arrival was at Chasewater Res on April 3rd with this site hosting two, Belvide Res one and Rocester Pools two on 17th. Sites having

126 birds during the remainder of April were Belvide Res (13 birds), Blithfield Res (40 birds with 30 on 29th), Branston GP (three), Chasewater Res (four), Doxey Marshes (three) and Middleton Lakes (one). May sightings kicked off with a significant passage on 2nd when Blithfield Res had 67, Chasewater Res 52 and Belvide Res 42. During the remainder of the month, singles were seen at Belvide Res, Blithfield Res and Chasewater Res other than the last group of seven at Belvide Res on 30th. Return passage in August comprised one at Belvide Res on 24th and two at Blithfield Res on 26th, then juveniles at Belvide Res on September 18th and 21st, one at Blithfield Res and Chasewater Res and two at Tittesworth Res on 22nd and another juvenile at Belvide on 29th. A very late bird flew through Westport Lake on October 29th. W Mid The species was recorded at three sites during the spring passage with one at Olton Mere on April 20th, two at Marsh Lane NR on 23rd, and one at Olton Mere and two at Sandwell Valley on 27th. The only autumn record was a single at Sandwell Valley on August 19th.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus Rare vagrant, usually in autumn (6/10). Staffs A first-summer bird was present at Blithfield Res on June 22ndGJM .

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant. Warks Spring passage opened on May 6th, with one at Earlswood Lakes and three at Draycote. A lengthy gap then ensued, before one appeared at Draycote on 21st, heralding a reasonable arrival over the coming week. The best day was 24th, with 22 at Draycote, a minimum of six at Kingsbury WP and one at Earlswood Lakes, the latter also present the following day. The last of the spring were six at Draycote on 28th. A moulting adult at Ladywalk NR on the mid- summer date of June 28th was unusual. On return passage, six were at Draycote on July 26th, dropping to one the following day. There was then almost a month’s wait until an adult and two juveniles were at Kingsbury WP on August 22nd, with one of the juveniles still present on 24th. Singletons were at Draycote on 26th and September 2nd before the last of the year, a juvenile, at Shustoke Res on 4th. Worcs Nine spring passage birds recorded in the county, starting with one at the Moors Pool, Upton Warren on May 21st, Clifton Pits held three and Ripple Pits one on 24th and four were at the Moors Pool on 26th. Autumn sightings comprised single juveniles at Lower Moor on August 28th and September 10th – 23rd and Clifton Pits on September 4th. Staffs Year 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Birds 127 20 27 121 56 63 108 43-49 32-34 30 181-200 107 96

The first spring arrival was at Middleton Lakes on April 20th with two at Blithfield Res on 21st and 28th. The bulk of spring passage was in May, the highest count being nine at Blithfield Res on 24th. Sites hosting birds were Aqualate Mere (seven), Belvide Res (15), Blithfield Res (19), Branston GP (one), Chasewater Res (two), Gailey Res (five), Middleton Lakes (one), Tittesworth Res (four), Tucklesholme NR (two) and Uttoxeter Quarry (one). One passed through Belvide Res on June 28th. Return passage commenced with six at Blithfield Res on July 26th with one there on 27th. In August, Belvide Res had three on 18th, one from 19th–21st, 26th and 31st and Blithfield Res had two on 26th and 28th. Good numbers continued into September, Chasewater Res hosting an adult on 1st, five at Blithfield Res on 2nd, an adult and juvenile at Belvide Res on 5th, a juvenile at Knypersley Res on 15th and 16th and two at Blithfield Res on 16th and 22nd. The last birds were at Knypersley Res on October 4th and a juvenile at Belvide Res from 15th–17th.

127 W Mid A very poor year with just three records involving four birds. The first of the year saw two at Edgbaston Res on May 12th with two different birds flying through Marsh Lane NR on 24th, the first at 12.15pm followed by a second at 14.40pm.

Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Green-listed Warks For a species that rarely receives much attention in these pages, arguably the most notable record came from in May, when one unlucky bird was spectacularly photographed in the talons of the resident female Peregrine Falcon. The highest count was 50 on various dates at Saxon Mill - Warwick. Worcs There were 60 at Trimpley Res on January 4th. The only other double-figure counts received were ten at Bewdley on February 8th with 12 at both Wyre Forest on May 16th and at Bromsgrove on June 10th. Staffs Three-figure counts received were 150 at Hanley Forest Park, 200 at Leek, 220 at Newcastle-under-Lyme, 159 at Tamworth and 108 at Westport Lake. W Mid Birds were recorded from 92 sites this year, with 51 sites having birds during the breeding season, which is broadly in line with recent years. Breeding was noted at Cannon Hill Park, Coventry City Centre, Edgbaston Res, Handsworth Wood, Salford Park, Seth Somers Park, Sutton Park NNR, Rushall Canal - Walsall and Wyken Croft NR. The highest counts received were of 127 at West Park on May 10th, 64 in Ladywood on June 4th, 75 at Coombeswood Wedge on September 30th and 150 at Edgbaston Res on December 13th.

Stock Dove Columba oenas Very common resident. Amber-listed Warks A huge flock of at least 900, possibly even more, was found at Haselor onMarch 24th feeding on maize stubble JLC, MJI. This represents a new county record, comfortably surpassing 700 at Fenny Compton in November 2001. All other counts of 100 or more came from September onwards, with highs of 250 at on 27th and 180 at Farnborough on December 23rd. The latter flock included a white leucistic bird, one or two having been seen annually in the south-east in recent years. The best breeding counts were six territories at Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton (cf. seven in 2017) and at least five pairs nesting in boxes at Brandon. Worcs Wick had high numbers feeding on arable land in the first winter period with 85 on January 10th, 120 on the 29th, 250 on February 24th rising to 550 on the 26th and 250 on March 4th. There were also high numbers feeding on an old sunflower crop at Naunton Beauchamp with 250 on January 30th, 550 on February 6th and 400 on the 11th. Walton Pool had 28 on January 14th with 25 at Lower Park on March 7th and 23 at Perry Wood on the 12th. Following heavy snow, 62 visited a Stoke Bliss garden feeding station on March 2nd with 31 here on the 18th. Upton Warren Flashes had 45 on January 16th rising to 65 on April 24th with 40 on July 17th and one was taken by a fox here on August 20th. Also at Upton Warren, the late summer/ autumn flock was smaller than usual with 60 on October 9th and 50 on November 6th whilst Wick had 140 feeding on arable land on December 29th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Branston GP, Elkstone, Middleton Lakes and River Sow Meadows - Baswich and probably occurred at 11 other sites. Larger flock counts were, in January 35 at Whitmore - Bent Lane, in May 58 at Blithfield Res, in September 120 at Sutton and in November 40 at Gunstone, 33 at Keele - Lymes Road and 45 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich. A total of 64 birds was logged on autumn migration south between September 14th and October 31st. W Mid There were up to six pairs at Marsh Lane NR but there was no proof of breeding. Elsewhere confirmed breeding took place at Amblecote, , Merecroft Pool LNR,

128 Sutton Park NNR and Westwood Heath. Birds were also present during the breeding season at a further 30 sites, which is lower than in recent years. The only sizable counts were 22 that roosted at Siden Hill Wood on January 10th and 34 at Berkswell on March 5th. Birds were also recorded in small numbers from a further 77 locations.

Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks The only breeding records submitted were on the four HLS farms: Farm 2018 2017 Aylesmore Farm, Upper Brailes 20 18 Highfield Farm, Honington 14 12 Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth 21 17 Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton 34 31

In the first winter period the best counts were 750 at Farnborough on January 11th, c.1,000 roosting between and Cherington on 31st, 700 in rape at Fenny Compton on February 12th, 700 at Wormleighton Res on 13th and 750 feeding in kale at Farnborough Park on 27th. Significant visible migration counts were a feature of October, with 1,034 past Hartshill Hayes CP on 19th, c.2,000 west at Draycote in three hours on 27th and a massive 8,820 over Coleman’s Hill on the morning of 27th. Other notable counts later in the year were 2,400 at Wolston GP on October 25th, 900 leaving a roost at Ennister Wood (Ragley Estate) on the morning of December 9th and 1300 feeding in game cover at nearby Dunnington on 30th. Worcs An old sunflower crop at Naunton Beauchamp hosted 620 on January 30th and there were 650 on arable land at Wick in January with 200 here on March 20th. A flock of 110 roosted at Uffmoor Wood on January 14th whilst Lower Park had 100 on March 7th and 250 on the 15th. Also in March, 900 were over Upton Warren Moors on the 9th, 124 were at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 22nd with 250 on arable crops at John Bennett NR on the 23rd. A flock of 100 headed east at Penorchard Meadow on May 4th. Bredon Hill had 500 over on October 16th whilst 1832 were tracked over Clifton Upon Teme on the 17th. Redditch had high movements in October with 150 over Winyates East and 810 over Oakenshaw on the 18th with 1350 here on the 27th. Upton Warren had good autumn numbers with 300 over on October 27th, 550 on November 13th, 1000 on November 17th and 800 on the 21st. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 238 on November 1st with 150 on arable crops at Wick on December 19th. Staffs In the first winter period, larger flocks in January were 200 at Branston WP, and Leawood; in February 400 at Kemsey Manor and Weston Jones Mill, 300 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich and 200 at I54; in March 670 at Kemsey Manor, 600 at Weston Jones Mill, 500 at Alrewas, 495 at Whitemoor Haye, 350 at The Clive Farm and 200 at Chillington Pool and River Sow Meadows - Baswich; in April 350 at Whitemoor Haye and 217 at Adbaston. Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 South 95,800 234,700 39,600 299,400 221,700 57,200 123,500 242,100 162,400 North 4,617 53,300 11,600 26,600 4,526 2,000 26,500 11,840 40,200

Autumn passage was recorded between October 7th and December 4th with major passage occurring from October 17th to November 8th. Highest counts were 15,300 over Berry Hill and 25,800 over Black Bank on October 22nd, 23,400 over Berry Hill and 19,600 over Black Bank on 27th and 13,600 over Berry Hill on 28th. The larger flocks recorded in the second winter period were 500 at Middle Mayfield on November 3rd and 12th and 500 at Gibbetts Wood Quarry on December 26th.

129 W Mid There were 2,750 entries received via BirdTrack from 198 locations, 80 of those sites were during the breeding season which would indicate a decline (cf. 120 in 2017), although I doubt that there is any cause for concern as yet. Maximum counts consisted of 700 at Berkswell and 350 at Elmdon Park on February 21st, 335 at Seth Somers Park on August 28th, 200 at Rushall Canal - Walsall on October 10th, 900 at Reedswood Park on 25th, 150 at Fens Pools LNR on November 22nd, 190 at Nailcote Hall on December 1st and 800 at Bickenhill Plantation on 21st.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Scarce to uncommon summer visitor and passage migrant to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Rare to scarce elsewhere. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 27th (83) to September 23rd (82) 8-year average: April 26th (1 day earlier) to September 7th (16 days earlier) First arrival: April 30th; Site A (Worcs) Last departure: Insufficient data

Warks Although birds were noted at three traditional strongholds, the number of records submitted was very low. At Salford Priors, a pair probably bred during June and July, with a different male singing nearby on June 24th JJB. One or two were reported in the Stockton area per TMa and another was at Bishop’s Itchington on June 16th KBr. Worcs Only three locations in the south of the county provided sightings in 2018. Three, two males and a female, were at Site A on April 30th and present here through May and June when nesting was confirmed in a small copse on June 15th. A male was singing at Site B on May 5th with a pair nesting in June and a fledged juvenile on wires here on August 21st. Two males were singing at Site C on May 9th with a pair together on the 25th and a male still singing here on June 29th. Staffs One was seen from May 12th–13th and 18th at Aqualate Mere Aqualate Annual Report.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Common to very common resident. Green-listed Warks The best count was 30 at Castle Farm, Studley on December 22nd, whilst 10-20 were regularly noted in and around Willey during the autumn and winter months. No nesting records were received, although a count of 16 at Preston-on-Stour on June 29th, including a group of 12 in a single tree, was suggestive of a good population in the village. Worcs Very little breeding data were received but three pairs bred in farm buildings at Lower Moor. The only double-figure reports were for ten at Dobbins Oak on November 17th and for 20 on overhead wires at Grimley on both November 8th and December 4th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Doxey Marshes and Weston Jones. Double-figure counts submitted were up on last year with 12 at Barton-under-Needwood in December, 26 at Chasewater Res in September, 11 at Cheadle in May, 12 at Cheddleton in December, up to 20 at Doxey Marshes in late autumn, up to 13 at Glascote - Tamworth throughout the year, 14 at Leawood in January, 15 at Little Iverley Covert in January, 40 at Preston Vale in September and up to 24 at Stoneydelph throughout the year. W Mid Birds were recorded from 59 locations, 33 of which were during the breeding season (cf. 41 in 2017). On paper this would indicate a decline but in reality, the species is under- recorded, plus it tends to favour urban situations, which receive relatively low observer coverage. Breeding was confirmed at Berkswell, Dobbins Oak, Marsh Lane NR, Stourbridge, Sandwell Valley, Tyseley and Wychall Res. The highest counts were 15 in Stourbridge on January 28th,

130 14 at Nailcote Hall on June 2nd, ten at Dobbins Oak on November 17th and 14 at Parkes Hall Res on December 25th.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 11th (82) to September 6th (81) 8-year average: April 8th (3 days earlier) to September 5th (1 day earlier) First arrival: April 13th; Himbleton (Worcs), Woods Farm (WMid/Worcs) Last departure: August 24th; Barlaston (Staffs)

Warks It was a very good year at Brandon with four males and two females reported between mid-May and early June. Other good counts were five in the Bidford-on-Avon and Alcester area in mid-May, three males and a female at Salford Priors GP on June 3rd and four at Hampton Wood on 15th. Birds now appear to be sadly absent from the east of the county, with no records of any males calling east of Fosse Way to the north of the M40. The first of the year was heard near Bidford-on-Avon on April 15th, followed by one at MOD Kineton on 18th, after which birds were noted daily until late June, records coming from c.47 sites (cf. 49 in 2017). Disappointingly there were no records of any juveniles, and the last of the year was an adult on passage at Fenny Compton Tunnels on August 3rd. Worcs There was an increase in the number of reporting sites this year at 69 (58 in 2017). The first visitors were at Himbleton and at Woods Farm on April 13th and at Upton upon Severn on the 14th. Lower Moor/Wick meadows had two males and a female throughout May and June and John Bennett NR had two males and two females from April 23rd to June 10th. Two singing males were at Bow Brook on May 6th with two males and two females at Pershore - Avon Meadows in May. On May 11th, Bredon Hill had two males with three singing in the Wyre Forest on the same date. Ripple Pits had two males and a female in June with two at Feckenham Wylde Moor, Holt and at Porters Mill early in the month. Upton Warren had a better year with birds noted on 14 dates including two on May 20th. A male and female were calling at Castlemorton Common in May and June. Late singing males were at both High Green and Lower Moor on July 1st and the latest bird was seen at Pershore - Avon Meadows on July 12th. Staffs Year 2005 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Sites with 60 49 51 48 54 65 62 61 63 69 62 61 59 56 calling birds

There was one confirmed breeding record of a juvenile being fed by Meadow Pipits at Cuckoo Bank on September 9th. The first birds arrived on April 15th at Cannock Chase and Park Hall GP, followed by a general influx from 18th onwards – a week later than last year. Sites recording more than one calling bird were Bishop’s Wood (two), Cannock Chase (23+), Enville GC (three), Hanchurch Woods (two), Highgate Common (two) and Middleton Lakes (two). A juvenile was present at Chasewater Res on July 14th, an adult flew over Knypersley Res on August 9th and the last bird was a juvenile at Barlaston on August 24th. W Mid All but two of this year’s records came from the south-east of the county with birds thought to have bred at Barston and Marsh Lane NR, where a juvenile was seen on July 22nd, Hampton in Arden where up to two pairs were seen along the River Blythe, Shirley Quarry and Woods Farm (Shirley). The first bird of the year was from Woods Farm on April 13th. In addition, birds there were two at Chadwick End on May 21st, with singles observed at Knowle on June 6th, Mercote Mill on June 5th, Edgbaston on May 27th, Nailcote Hall on June 2nd, Sandwell Valley on April 22nd and Sutton Park NNR on June 2nd. The latest record came from Shirley with a bird seen on August 11th.

131 Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent but much declined, though now stable, resident. Green-listed Warks A combination of weather conditions and low vole numbers combined to make it a poor year. The South Warwickshire Barn Owl Survey recorded only 65 breeding pairs (cf. 114 in 2017), with an additional 30 pairs not proved to have bred. Birds were most numerous in SP16 where 13 pairs were located, covering the parishes of Aston Cantlow, , Henley- in-Arden, Langley, Morton Bagot, , Spernall, Tamworth-in-Arden, and . Away from the south, breeding pairs were also present at Brandon (failed), Dairy Farm and Middleton Lakes. Road casualties were recorded at Earlswood, Long Lawford and . Worcs There was a welcome increase in the number of reporting sites this year at 58 (42 in 2017 and 2016). Purpose-built nest boxes were again popular with successful pairs at Evesham (four young), Fladbury (three young), Wick (four young) and at Throckmorton Lagoons. A pair breeding at Chadbury had all three young predated by Tawny Owls. After cold weather, dead birds were found at Park Plantation on February 11th, Coney Meadow on the 17th and at John Bennett NR on March 6th. A dead bird was also found in the road at on April 1st. At Stanford on Teme, one was forced to drop prey by Carrion Crows on March 3rd. Birds were seen at Upton Warren on 67 dates, mainly in the winter periods. At Kemerton Lake NR, one was seen hunting the Starling roost in the phragmites on several dates from October to December. Staffs Year 2005 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Locations 62 96 75 146 100 75 69 72 63 34 45 79 43 51 Breeding Pairs - - 18 39 29 9 10 42 7 5 7 26 9 10

Of the 10 territories, eight pairs had young in the nests, most of which were assumed to have fledged some young. W Mid There was no firm evidence of breeding, but birds were seen at a handful of sites during the season. Singles were seen at Temple Balsall on January 5th, Castle Hills on 8th (and March 22nd), on March 6th, Meriden on 12th, Rushall Canal - Walsall on August 11th and Knowle on 27th. There were five sightings during the year at Marsh Lane NR.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco Fairly common resident. Amber-listed Warks Confirmed breeding pairs were located at Arley (at least one pair), Brandon (two young fledged), Burton Green, Crackley Wood, Earlswood Lakes, Ladywalk NR (two pairs both fledged two young), Maxstoke, Morton Bagot and Willoughby. Records were received from c.57 sites during the year (cf. 56 in 2017). Worcs There was a slight increase in reporting sites this year at 50 (47 in 2017). Successful breeding was confirmed at Tawny Owl, Keele, Mark Sutton

132 Abberton, Chadbury, Airfield, Kempsey, Lower Moor, Malvern Link and Stoke Bliss. Three pairs were resident at Chadbury with two pairs at both and at Kemerton Lake NR. Also at Chadbury, three Barn Owl chicks were predated by Tawny Owls in the spring. In April, pairs were also found at Dobbins Oak and Salwarpe. A young bird was found dead in a Stoke Bliss garden in early July. Three were at Waseley Hills in July and at Bevere Island in October with two at Castlemorton Common on December 17th. Staffs Year 2005 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Locations 50 44 68 89 48 56 53 50 53 64 73 57 91 72

Breeding was confirmed at eight sites with calling birds at a further 12 sites. W Mid Birds were present at 32 sites during the year and were present during the breeding season at 12 sites. A juvenile was heard calling at Westwood Heath on June 1st and this constituted the only evidence of breeding although two males were present throughout the year at Harborne NR.

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common but declining resident. Warks No change in status, with reports coming from 42 sites. Confirmed or probable breeding pairs were located at Fenny Compton (two), Fillongley, Knightcote (two), Morton Bagot and Radway. One was found dead on a road at Burton Dassett on April 15th. Worcs Sightings were received from 31 locations including 17 in the breeding season (15 in 2017). Numbers are considered to be reducing in the county with many previously occupied areas now abandoned. A pair bred at with a family group of four present in July. Regular sightings came from Castlemorton Common with young birds calling in July. A pair laid two eggs at Kemerton Lake NR but were then ousted from the nest hole by Grey Squirrels. Other breeding season pairs were reported from Aston Somerville, Cropthorne, Oldbury Farm Hallow and Woodrow. At Evesham, birds were found in April and May feeding on worms in an asparagus crop. A single bird was reported in a dilapidated barn at Upton Warren on 14 dates from the end of September to December. Staffs Year 2008 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 38 31 27 22 19 16 17 12 7 7 19 Confirmed Breeding 95674143135

There was a significant improvement in breeding pairs in the county this year, reversing several years of decline. W Mid This species continues to decline with the only reports during the breeding season coming from Minworth, Park Lime Pits and along the Rushall Canal - Walsall. There were two further sightings, singles at Wakeley Hill - Sedgley on October 19th and Tile Hill Station on December 1st.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks The year brought three records, beginning with one calling in a copse along the canal at Middleton Lakes on January 10th SLC. The next was heard near Shustoke on June 24th, which may have been indicative of local breeding DBr. At the end of the year, one was photographed on December 14th in a village garden in Napton-on-the-Hill per SMH, TMa.

133 Worcs One was found roosting in a Holly tree at Lower Moor on November 9th RAP. It stayed in the garden from midday and departed at dusk. Staffs Year 2005 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 9 11 12-13 2 10 4-5 2 8 2 5 3 4 10 3-4

Two pairs fledged two young. Birds away from breeding sites were seen at Cheddleton on September 9th, Audley Meadows on October 28th and two at Doxey Marshes on September 10th and December 17th.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeding species. Warks It was a far from classic year. The only record in the first winter period was two at Tysoe on January 7th. One at Salford Priors GP on June 1st was a surprise find for the time of year. The first of the autumn was at Alvecote Pools on September 3rd, with another singleton there on November 4th. What was presumably the same individual was recorded near Bedworth Woodlands on five dates between September 16th and October 8th, but this was the only site in the second half of the year where a bird was seen on more than two days. Other lone individuals were noted between October 10th and December 29th on one or two occasions at Braggington, Brandon, Hartshill, Kenilworth, Lighthorne, Middleton Lakes, Nuneaton and Tysoe. Worcs In April, one was found on Bredon Hill on the 6th and stayed around the summit and northern escarpment areas until the 16th. One was at Camp Lane Pits late in the afternoon on September 22nd with possibly the same individual at Upton Warren Flashes on the 23rd. This bird stayed around the Upton Warren area until September 26th. Throckmorton Landfill had one on October 17th and 18th with two present from 20th to 25th and a single here on November 10th. Clifton Pits had one on December 3rd and 4th with one hunting around the river meadows and game feed crops at Wick on the 15th. Staffs There was no confirmed breeding, just sightings of individual birds in two suitable territories. In the first winter period, one was seen once on the North Staffordshire Moorlands. In the second winter period, singles were seen at Middleton Lakes from August 30–31st, Whitemoor Haye on October 16th, Berry Hill on 20th, Belvide Res on November 1st, Whitemoor Haye on 4th, Cannock Chase - Abraham’s Valley on 11th, Berry Hill from 22nd–24th and Doxey Marshes from December 2nd until year’s end. There were also a few sightings of two birds on the North Staffordshire Moorlands during this time. W Mid Apart from one individual in the Sandwell Valley on October 28th PMH the only other record involved a bird picked up on call, using sound recording equipment, over Monkspath at 06.45am on October 20th JHS. 2017 Addendum W Mid A bird was seen to arrive from the north at Longmoor Pool, Sutton Park NNR on October 23rd PJe which constituted the only county record for 2017.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon to frequent, but very local summer resident, mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant.

Long-term average: May 16th (75) to August 19th (56) 8-year average: May 15th (1 day earlier) to August 7th (12 days earlier) First arrival: May 16th; Cannock Chase (Staffs) Last departure: August 8th; Cannock Chase (Staffs)

134 Staffs The first returning bird was at Cannock Chase on May 16th and the last two on August 8th. Casual records from The Chase produced at least 26 territories. In addition, there were two territories at Hanchurch Woods and four at Maer Hills. A migrant bird was seen at Chasewater Res on June 1st.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Amber-listed

Long-term average: April 22nd (84) to September 29th (84) 8-year average: April 14th ( 8 days earlier) to September 27th (2 days earlier) First arrival: April 19th; Fenny Compton (Warks) Last departure: November 10th; Evesham (Worcs)

Warks Despite concerns about below average numbers in some parts of the UK, this was not reflected in the south-east of the county where a good breeding season was reported. Large or sizeable nesting colonies were noted at Fenny Compton, Lower Shuckburgh, Northend, Ratley, Shotteswell, Warmington and Winderton. In addition, 10 pairs were estimated in Wormleighton, the highest total in the village since at least the mid-1990’s. Its status in the north of the county continues to remain uncertain, although four breeding pairs were found in New Arley and 100 at Bedworth on July 19th was notable. The first of the spring were singles over Fenny Compton on April 19th and Salford Priors GP on 22nd, with 100 at Draycote on 25th the highest gathering before the end of the month. In May, the best counts included 500 at Draycote on 10th, 300 at Shustoke Res on 11th and 400 at Draycote on 25th. In high summer, the best numbers were 200 at Draycote on June 5th, 300 feeding over Salford Priors GP on 16th and 164 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on July 31st. A prompt departure was evident in August, with the last two local birds seen at Fenny Compton on 6th. At least 10 were at Earlswood Lakes on 14th, and the last decent number was 36 at Middleton Lakes on 17th. There were four September records, with the last two at Shustoke Res on 9th, a day earlier than in 2017. Worcs Two were at Upton Warren Moors and three at Westwood Pool on April 22nd with birds at Camp Lane and Ripple Pits on the 23rd. On May 11th, there were 50 at Westwood Pool, 60 at Ripple Pits and 130 feeding over Upton Warren Moors. Westwood Pool also had 100 on May 26th. In June, 350 passed south over Upton Warren on the 16th whilst Pershore - Avon Meadows had 60 on the 28th. Welland had 20 on July 19th and Timberhonger had 150 on the 31st with 80 at Malvern Common on August 3rd. September reports came from Upton Warren, Common Swift, Draycote, Theo de Clermont Westwood Pool and Wild Goose NR with one at Little Comberton on the 21st. In early November, there were several Common Swifts in the UK with two reports from the county. One was feeding, in heavy rain, over fields at Upton Warren Moors on November 7th DJa with one circling over Evesham on the 10th PSta. Staffs The first arrivals were on April 22nd with 21 at Belvide Res and one at Gailey Res with regular sightings county-wide thereafter. The best April counts were 40 at Belvide Res on 23rd, 40 at Chasewater Res on 24th, 100 at Belvide Res on 25th and 50 at Blithfield Res on 28th. The best May counts were 100 at Branston GP on 8th, 100 at Belvide Res, 150 at Branston

135 GP and 100 at Doxey Marshes on 11th, 150 at Belvide Res on 13th, 100 at Middleton Lakes on 24th, 200 at Blithfield Res and 100 at Chasewater Res on 25th and 100 at Branston GP on 26th. In June there were 100 at Radford Meadows on 3rd, 100 at Chasewater Res on 17th, 100 at Branston GP on 20th and 100 at Trysull on 25th. A good count of 250 at I54 was made during the breeding season at I54. Nesting colonies were noted at Codsall (17+ pairs), Lichfield - Stowe Pool (five+), Trent Vale (three) and West End - Stoke (six). Unlike last year, there were no three- figure autumn counts and the best were just 50 at Branston GP on August 10th and Belvide Res on 11th. Birds continued to be seen on most days until the last singles at Belvide Res and Chasewater Res on September 10th. W Mid Birds were noted at 74 sites during the breeding season (cf. 73 in 2017). Breeding attempts for this species often go unrecorded, although at Stowlawn - Bilston a pair bred for the third successive year. There were only six April records with the first of these at Edgbaston Res on April 26th, after which passage was slow with the main influx not arriving until mid-May. The highest spring counts were 90 in the Sandwell Valley on May 10th, 50+ at Beake Avenue - Coventry on 22nd and 40 at Sedgley Beacon on June 12th and 40 at Bartley Res on 16th. During the autumn, high counts included 40+ at Beake Avenue - Coventry on July 17th, 20+ at Bartley Res on 21st and 50+ at Sutton Park NNR on 31st. The majority had departed by the end of the first week of August and there was only one September record, that of a single bird seen at Alexander Stadium on 3rd.

Swift sp. Worcs An unidentified Swift flew over the Hollywood bypass on November 11thPOw . There were a number of both Common and Pallid Swifts in the country at the time.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Amber-listed Warks The combination of bitterly cold and snowy weather at the end of February, coupled with flash flooding in parts of the county at the end of the May, made it a particularly difficult year for this species. Despite this, nesting was confirmed at Brandon, Middleton Lakes, Rookery - Lowsonford and probably also took place at Ladywalk NR, with records from an additional 19 sites during the breeding season. Birds were noted at 49 sites from the start of March (cf. 60 in 2017), suggesting the cold weather may have had some impact. One was taken by a Sparrowhawk at Dairy Farm in October. Worcs There was a reduction in the total number of reporting sites this year at 42 (48 in 2017) and also in the breeding season sites at 22 (28 in 2017). Numbers were reported to be lower this year at both Upton Warren and Bittell Reservoirs. Four Common Kingfisher, Upton Warren, Kevin Wardlaw were reported from Holt at the end of March with three at Wyre Forest - Dowles Brook in June and at Upton Warren in September. Malvern Priory Park was popular in both winter periods and observed catching fish on December 20th. One was found dead at Knapp and Papermill on March 22nd, probably predated by a Sparrowhawk.

136 Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Berry Hill - Botteslow Flash, Doxey Marshes and Ingestre and probably occurred at Branston GP, Cheddleton/Consall Valley, Coombes Valley, Dimmingsdale and Tameside NR. The best count away from the breeding sites was three at Rudyard Lake on December 11th. W Mid Birds were noted during the breeding season at The Dingle - Selly Oak, Kings Norton, River Blythe, River Cole, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Walsall Arboretum and the Old Golf Course - Walsall. This is well down on the 23 possible breeding sites in 2017. Birds were noted at a further 41 localities at other times of the year (cf. 53 in 2017) which would suggest a small reduction in overall numbers.

Hoopoe Upupa epops Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter. Warks One was at Aston Cantlow on November 15th per CEH, TMa. Its arrival occurred during a protracted period of southerly airflow which produced several other records in the country. Worcs One was found at Defford Airfield on April 20th MSm which stayed until the 23rd.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1941. Worcs One was found on a footpath at Nafford on August 26th CDa but after flying to a nearby hedge could not be relocated. At Upper Bittell Res, an adult was in a hedge on September 6th RWa and flew to the sailing club roof. It was re-found in the hedge on September 7th and later in the day another was found nearby CTh. The two birds stayed in the area until September 13th with one present until the 15th. Staffs One was present at Poplars Tip on September 19th CCl.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dryobates minor Uncommon and much reduced resident. Red-listed Warks Successful nesting was confirmed at Wood, where a female was seen with a juvenile on June 23rd. Three pairs were present at Coombe CP, there were possibly up to two territories at Middleton Hall/Lakes and a couple of birds were noted during the breeding season at both Ladywalk NR and Whitacre Heath NR. Other records of single birds between February and July came from Alvecote Pools, Brandon, Green End - Fillongley and Wormleighton. In the last three months of the year sightings came from Baddesley Clinton, Kingsbury WP (two on December 24th), Knightcote, Oxhouse Farm and Radway. Worcs Birds were recorded at 15 locations throughout the year (11 in 2017), with eight of those sites reporting territorial behaviours. During the first winter period, records came from Upton Warren on January 1st and Redditch Arrow Valley on the 12th. Drumming was reported from Eymore Wood on January 7th, Ripple Pits on March 4th, Hell Hole on April 5th, Pipers Hill on May 5th and from Chase End Wood on the 9th. A female was at Hewell Grange on March 29th with one at Arrow Valley on April 28th. Again, the Wyre Forest provided the most consistent records, with most in the first half of the year. Whilst no dedicated survey work took place, four occupied territories were found in the core area of the forest, with another territory in an outlying wood. A pair came daily to a feeding station north-east of Buckland Wood in April and May and calling birds were reported from Great Malvern in April. One was found at Chaddesley Wood on August 14th with sightings on three dates in September/October at Wild Goose NR.

137 Staffs Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Sightings 36 37 29 19 28 37 31 19 44 26 21 7 Sites 19 25 20 18 11 21 20 12 9 8 8 5

This year showed a very worrying drop in numbers and the continued presence in the county looks under threat. Breeding season sightings came from four of the five sites. One was seen at Park Hall Lake on January 10th. W Mid A depressing downward trend continues with only three records this year after five in 2017, however, this species is notoriously difficult to locate. Single birds were seen at Banners Gate Primary School - Kingstanding, close to Sutton Park NNR on April 15th, at Walsall Arboretum on May 19th and at Handsworth Wood, close to the nearby Sandwell Valley on December 1st.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Fairly common to common resident. Green-listed Warks Breeding counts and/or territories included two pairs in the northern half of Bush Wood, at least four pairs in Fenny Compton parish, possibly up to six pairs at Ladywalk NR, four drumming at Packwood in early May and eight pairs across Wormleighton parish. The largest winter count was six at Compton Verney on February 4th. Drumming was first reported at on January 9th, one day earlier than 2017; whilst at the end of year one was drumming by the at Kineton on November 25th. Worcs Successful breeding was confirmed at Birchen Coppice and at Ladywood Common (two pairs). Three were at north Malvern Hills on January 10th, Malvern Wood Street on the 11th, Uffmoor Wood on the 19th and at Stanford on Teme on March 4th. A Wyre Forest grid square had five on February 4th and seven here on the 17th. Redditch Abbey Golf Course had three on February 5th as did Ashwood Nurseries on the 24th and Beacon Wood on March 4th. Penorchard Meadows had three on April 4th and 28th as did Westwood Pool on the 22nd whilst Swinyard Hill had six on the 18th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had three on June 7th with five in a Wyre Forest grid square on the 10th. A juvenile was found at Greystones on June 15th. In September, Wild Goose NR had three on the 13th as did Upton Warren on the 29th. Three were also reported from Burlish Top on October 17th and from Bevere Island on November 25th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Bateswood CP, Belvide Res, Branston GP, Cheddleton/ Consall Valley, Gibbets Wood Quarry, Hanchurch Woods, Hixon Airfield, Maer Hills, Middle Mayfield, Radford Meadows and Wettonmill and thought possible/probable at a further 27 sites. The highest count of six birds was at Tittesworth Res in April and June and seven territories were logged at Churnet Valley NR in May. W Mid One pair bred successfully at Marsh Lane NR, the outcome of two other pairs was not known. Birds were recorded at a total of 111 locations (this compares with 73 in 2017 and 81 in 2013). In addition to Marsh Lane NR, it is likely that breeding occurred at 46 locations, but actual breeding was only confirmed at three sites. Otherwise, widespread across the county outside the breeding season.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Fairly common resident. Green-listed Warks Counts of breeding pairs included Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton (eight in parish, cf. six in 2017 and 2016), Kingsbury Wood (two), Knightcote (two), Ladywalk NR (two), Priors Hardwick (two), Welford-on-Avon (three family parties in early July) and Wormleighton (seven across the parish, cf. six in 2017). Only one pair bred in the vicinity of Salford Priors

138 GP compared with the usual three or more. As per 2017, the highest count of the year came from Barcheston, where seven were noted on March 7th. Interesting behaviour was noted at Fenny Compton on July 11th, where an adult and juvenile spent at least two hours feeding and sunbathing on the roof of a house. Worcs This species is still widely distributed through the county and present in most suitable habitats. Three were in a Wyre Forest tetrad on February 4th, at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on March 24th, at Bunkers Hill South on April 6th and at Salwarpe on the 7th. Wick had four by the River Avon on April 13th with three at Bevere Island on the 16th, at Swinyard Hill on the 18th and at Upton Warren on May 10th whilst Malvern - Wood Street had four on the 20th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had three on June 28th as did Camp Lane Pits on July 15th with a family party of three at Croome Park on August 1st. There was a female with a juvenile at Netherton Lane on July 6th and also at Breach Farm on August 25th. In December, three were found in a Pershore grid square on the 24th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Anslow, Branston GP, Middleton Lakes and Wettonmill. The highest count of just three birds was made at Chasewater Res on February 16th, Churnet Valley NR in May, Iverley House Farm on April 6th and Shoal Hill on January 28th. W Mid There were up to four pairs in and around Marsh Lane NR with a pair around Railway Pool successfully raising two young; the outcome of the others was not known. The species was recorded from 80 locations (2017: 73). Breeding was confirmed at eight sites, with a further 32 where birds are likely to have bred (cf. 51 in 2017). Highest counts came from Coombeswood Wedge (four), Marsh Lane NR (four), Mercote Mill (five) and Sandwell Valley (four).

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Amber-listed Warks Confirmedor probable breeding pairs were found at: Brandon, Coombe CP, Dunnington, Fenny Compton (five in parish), Kineton, Knightcote, nr Ladywalk NR, Lighthorne (three), Little Compton, Lower Tysoe, Maxstoke (four in the area), Northend, Priors Hardwick (two), Shrewley, Stoneton, Willey (two), Wolverton and Wormleighton (four). Outside the breeding season, the best count was five at Priors Hardwick on September 15th. Worcs Recorded throughout the county, with 599 records this year, an increase from the 458 reports in 2017. The number of reporting locations also increased to 130 from 101. Increased and more widespread use of Birdtrack, together with a regular presence in well watched areas may account for this rather than a genuine population increase. A pair at Stanford shared a passerine killed by the female on March 2nd. Common Kestrel, Ladywalk, Peter Lichfield Three pairs successfully bred in ancient hedgerow trees at Wick. A maximum count of three was achieved from a number of sites in the late summer, all relating to family parties. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide, Blackclough, Branston GP, Coal Brook - Hales, Middle Mayfield, Reapsmoor, The Roaches, Tixall and Tucklesholme NR. Outside the breeding season, the highest count of five birds was at Knypersley Res onAugust 27th.

139 W Mid Birds were recorded from 63 locations with 24 of these during the breeding season. Confirmed breeding took place at five of these sites (cf. 34 potential breeding pairs in 2017 and 32 in 2013). High counts were three at Barr Beacon on April 14th, five at Minworth on July 9th, three at Wood Farm - Shirley on 17th and four in Sutton Park NNR on 23rd, these records probably referred to family parties. One bird had a lucky escape when it was chased by a Peregrine at Marsh Lane NR on November 19th.

Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon winter visitor. Rare breeding species on the northern moors. Red-listed Warks A fairly good showing, with females being particularly prominent in the second winter period. The new year got underway with one at Draycote on January 1st per CEH. A bird roosting at Knightcote on the evening of 6th was likely the overwintering female first noted in November 2017, although was not seen subsequently JJB. Also in January, what was likely the same individual made three brief appearances at Brandon BMVCT, and a male was at Salford Priors GP on 10th CJL. Moving into February, one was near Broadwell on 3rd GPR, Middleton Lakes had one on 16th per CEH and a male was in the extreme north east of the county at Wibtoft on 19th SCN. A second sighting came from Middleton Lakes on March 1st per CEH, and one was near Whitacre Heath on 11th MPa. All other records in the first winter period came from the Avon Valley between Warwick and Bidford-on-Avon and were perhaps suggestive of two males and a female in the area GJA, JGB, DRi. The last report of the period came here at Charlecote on March 14th. The first returning bird in autumn, a female or juvenile, was observed catching a Skylark at Salford Priors GP on August 29th CJL. A female was attracted to a big Linnet flock at Wormleighton on September 15th and was probably the bird at Knightcote on October 20th both JJB. Further females were at Saxon Mill - Warwick JBr, LBr and Ladywalk NR SFr on September 27th and 28th respectively, a juvenile caught a Linnet at Napton Res on October 13th per CEH and a female was at Salford Priors GP on 21st JJB. A female was hunting over fields to the north of Woolscott also on 21st and was the recorders first sighting from this part of the county since 2015 TMa. An unsexed bird was at Wolston GP on 23rd PWC, and on 29th singles were at Draycote and Barnacle, the latter the seventh female of the period both per CEH. Another record came from Draycote on November 7th per CEH, the only male in the second winter period was at Salford Priors GP on 18th JJB, an unsexed bird was at Shotteswell on 28th MJL and the last of the year was a flyby at Brandon on December 13thBMVCT . Worcs Birds were recorded on 19 dates from 15 locations, a small reduction in sightings on 2017 of this typically scarce falcon. Records were most frequent in the first winter period with 14 records in the period January–April against five from September–December. Presumably the same wintering male was seen at various sites in the south of the county from January–April and may have accounted for five of the records. January was the most productive month, with six records, with birds at Upper Malvern Common, and Stoulton on 7th, Summerfield on 25th, a male on 26th at Ashmoor Common and Ripple Pits on 28th followed by a female at Grimley Church Farm on 31st. One was at Clifton upon Teme on February 7th. March commenced with a male at Lower Moor on 3rd, followed by females on 4th at Stoulton, and Bluntington on 11th. A female at Shenstone April 2nd, followed by a male at Clifton Pits chasing wagtails on the 5th and Coney Meadow on 7th. The second winter period provided much sparser records, commenced with a bird at Upper Bittell Res on September 29th, an immature male at Wick on October 25th, a male at Hollywood on December 10th. A female at Wick on December 19th was hunting finch flocks and a bird at Droitwich on 26th was chasing passerines over playing fields. Staffs Just one bird was seen hunting during the breeding season. In the first winter period there were birds at Belvide Res, Branston GP, Codsall, Iverley, Middleton Lakes and Whitemoor Haye in January, none in February and at Barton GP, Belvide Res, Hoar Cross, Keele University and Whitemoor Haye in March. Late sightings were a male at Whitemoor Haye on April 2nd and

140 a female at Amington on 13th. The first returning bird was seen at Belvide Res on August 25th. In the second winter period, birds were seen at Belvide Res (two), Blithfield Res, Doxey Res, I54 and Preston Hill in September, Belvide Res (two), Iverley - Sugar Loaf Farm, Tittesworth Res and Whitemoor Haye in October, Pool Hall Res and Whitemoor Haye (two) in November and one at Consall on December 7th. W Mid A bird was reported from Fen End Road - Knowle on March 11th JHam. A bird was observed at Hollywood flying across the border into Worcestershire on December 10thJRW .

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 19th (51) to October 11th (54) 8-year average: April 8th (11 days earlier) to October 22nd (11 days later) First arrival: April 10th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs) Last departure: October 24th; Ladywalk NR (Warks)

Warks Perhaps somewhere in the region of 12 pairs were present in the county, although as always with this species it can be difficult to determine the exact status given their secretive behaviour when nesting. Breeding was only confirmed at one site in the east. In the north, juveniles were noted at two sites in August and September near to where nesting was suspected, and at a third location a pair were seen carrying out a food pass near to a likely nest site. In a central location, one was acting in an agitated manner near a probable nest site in July. No nests could be found in the south-east this year. The first sighting came at Wellesbourne on April 13th, and there were reports from around 58 sites in total, with a high of seven at Brandon on May 15th, a site record. The last birds of the year were on the late dates of October 18th at Brandon and 24th at Ladywalk NR. Hobbies, South Worcestershire, Andy Warr Worcs A total of 219 records was received, commencing with a bird over Penorchard Meadows on April 29th. Birds were recorded on 103 dates from 55 widely distributed locations. Successful breeding was recorded from four locations with a minimum of six youngsters raised. Pairs were regularly recorded from an additional three sites during June/July, with one of these sites also reporting four birds present in August, but no further evidence was received. Another site recording three birds during the second half of the summer may relate to nearby breeding birds. Various wetland sites featured regular birds during the autumn, with Upton Warren and Grimley Camp Lane receiving records throughout August and September. The final bird recorded was of one over Bredicot on October 3rd. Staffs There were two confirmed breeding records and one pair on territory, but widespread reports of birds throughout the summer suggest there were many more. The first arrivals were two at Doxey Marshes on April 10th, then at Aqualate Mere on 19th followed by several on 22nd with two at Aqualate Mere and singles at Doxey Marshes and Middleton Lakes. The highest spring counts were at Aqualate Mere with 15 on May 1st, 10 from May 4th–9th and 14 on 12th. Counts of one to three birds were reported daily throughout the autumn, with five at

141 Aqualate Mere on September 2nd, one at Bilbrook on 16th, four south through Belvide Res on September 19th, six at Aqualate Mere on 23rd and the last at Stafford on October 9th and Doxey Marshes on 10th. W Mid For the sixth successive year no pairs bred at or close to Marsh Lane NR although birds were noted sporadically from April through to September. The only spring records came from Marsh Lane NR with the first records on April 29th and at Edgbaston Res on May 27th. Subsequently, records came from Reedswood Park on June 13th (and July 19th), Mercote Mill on 27th, Goscote Valley on July 10th, Fishley Lane - Walsall on 25th, Sutton Park NNR on August 20th and finally, Sandwell Valley on 27th.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Green-listed Warks Successful breeding was confirmed at the same three sites as 2017. The Leamington Spa duo raised three chicks, with the other two pairs in the north of the county raising three and one chick respectively. Birds were also present at three to four further locations, but with no firm evidence of nesting. Additionally, no records have been submitted from a further traditional site in the last couple of years, where a pair may still be present. Outside the nesting season, it continues to be seen regularly in most parts of the county, although perhaps less so in Peregrine Falcon, Ladywalk, Peter Lichfield the south. One found dead in Rugby in April had collided with a building, although a post-mortem revealed it had been shot at some time in its life, illustrating the dangers this species still faces. Worcs Birds were regularly encountered throughout the year, with 56 sites recording birds this year. Confirmed breeding was recorded from five sites, with a minimum of seven juveniles raised. Two further traditional sites recording birds present during the breeding season, but no evidence of breeding was submitted. A pair were observed throughout the summer at a new site where food passing, vocalisations and mating occurred, although no further indication of breeding occurred this year. Away from nesting locations, records mostly involved single birds, but two birds were recorded together from a small number of sites. Staffs Just three pairs bred this year all of which were successful. The pairs at Hanley and Stafford fledged four and five young respectively. W Mid There were 102 reported sightings BirdTrack , many of these refer to resident breeding pairs visiting suitable locations in search of prey. The breeding situation appears to be stable, with approximately six pairs in the county however, breeding success was not noted. At Marsh Lane NR, birds were seen throughout the year with prey ranging from Sand Martin to Lapwing. Elsewhere, birds were reported from Baggeridge CP, Barr Beacon, Bartley Res, Berkswell, Birmingham City Centre, Bournville, Coventry City Centre, Dudley, Edgbaston, Edgbaston Pool, Fens Pools LNR, Goscote Valley, Halesowen, Harborne NR, Highgate, Highters Heath, Lee Bank, Lutley Wedge, Mercote Mill, Merecroft Pool LNR, Moseley, Netherton Res, Sandwell Valley, Shirley, Stourbridge, Sutton Park NNR, The Hawthorns (home of West Bromwich Albion), Walsall, Wollaston and Wolverhampton City Centre.

142 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor and breeder. Warks There was a series of sightings from Warwick. The first flew over St Nicholas Park on February 4th, and then in October and November additional observations of what was probably the same individual came from Chase Meadow, Guy’s Cliffe and the racecourse. Away from the county town, one was at Brandon on April 20th, an unidentified parakeet flew over Ladywalk NR on May 7th, one was at Wharf Meadows, Bedworth on July 19th and another in a garden on August 1st. A bird flying over Rose-ringed Parakeet, Elmdon Park, Alan Dean Willey on September 28th was the first from this part of the county. Worcs One was sighted at Evesham Overbrook on both January 22nd and April 17th whilst one was in a Great Malvern garden on May 24th. Also, in Evesham, one was seen daily around the Mansion Gardens area from August 15th to 31st. Two flew over Wickhamford on August 13th with two over Upton Warren Moors on September 7th and one was at Dobbins Oak on October 28th. Staffs Birds were seen in April at Codsall on 23rd; in August at Meir Heath on 13th; in September at Belvide Res on 20th and Uttoxeter on 24th; in October at Trentham Gardens on 7th and 14th, Berry Hill on 18th, I54 on 20th, Shugborough Hall on 24th and six at Stourbridge Canal on 30th; in November there were two at Uttoxeter - River Tean on 6th and one at Coombes Valley on 26th; in December at Burton-on-Trent on 6th and two at Stourton Ridge on 28th. W Mid This species continues to increase but seems reluctant to break free of its traditional strongholds in the urban conurbations. In the Sandwell Valley birds were noted throughout the year and were often to be observed visiting the bird feeders at the RSPB reserve. Several pairs are breeding successfully there but information on how many is sketchy. There was a maximum count of 82 on November 28th and several other counts in excess of 50. Birds also bred at Elmdon Park and were observed throughout the year with a maximum of seven on December 24th. Birds were present for most of the year at Park Lime Pits with ten+ seen on August 19th and September 12th. The roost site at Shard End saw a maximum of 75 leaving the roost on August 27th with at least three pairs breeding nearby, whilst another roost site in Walsall held upwards of 50+ birds on several occasions during the winter. Small numbers were noted in suburban gardens close to these strongholds. Elsewhere, high counts included ten at Walsall Arboretum on October 10th, seven at Cannon Hill Park on 16th, and 12 at Walsall GC on December 12th.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Rare or scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Staffs One was present at Cannock Chase - Abraham’s Valley on November 2nd ABl and remained in the area until year’s end.

143 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius Fairly common to common resident. Warks Confirmed or probable breeding pairs were reported from: Bush Wood (at least two in the northern half), Ladywalk NR (possibly two), Middleton Lakes, Mockley Wood, Salford Priors GP and Wormleighton Res. The highest counts were nine near the main entrance at Brandon on April 8th, a party of nine moving along a treeless hedgerow at Wormleighton on July 21st and 10 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on September 30th. Worcs Two pairs bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum with clutches of five fledging four and Jay, Belvide Res, Kevin Wardlaw three young. Burlish Top had nine on April 16th with eight at Hurcutt on November 7th and also at Caunsall on December 7th. Six or more birds were also regularly reported from Bittell Reservoirs, Penorchard Meadows, Waseley Hills and Wyre Forest. Staffs There was no confirmed breeding although the species remains widespread inthe county. The only double-figure counts were 12 on passage over Berry Hill on October 1st, 11 at Hednesford Hills on March 21st and 10 at Gibbet Wood on January 20th. W Mid Two pairs nested at Marsh Lane NR which is a reduction on recent years (cf. six pairs in 2015). Birds were noted at 107 sites of which 32 (a 25% drop on 2016) were during the breeding season. High counts include six at Mole Hill (Halesowen) on February 25th, 11 at Sandwell Valley on March 26th (with 13 on October 28th), six at Marsh Lane NR on 31st and seven at Fens Pools LNR on April 19th.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Green-listed Warks The best counts were 21 at both Coughton Fields on February 6th and Lea Marston on March 7th. Other counts of at least 15 came from: Charlecote, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton, Kinwarton, Lighthorne Quarry, Saxon Mill - Warwick and Willey. Worcs A buff-coloured part leucistic bird was present at Redditch - Ipsley in June and July. Uffmoor Farm had 19 on January 28th as did Pershore - Avon Meadows on February 1st on which date Hunnington Farm had 18. Also, in February, a Bewdley grid square had 20 on the 8th and there was a flock of 18 at Bricklehampton on the 12th. Upton Warren Moors had 22 in an adjacent field on October 31st and 16 were counted at Ipsley Alders on December 27th. Staffs Regular counts at Radford Meadows produced maxima of 107 in the first winter period and 108 in the second. Berry Hill and Burton-on-Trent regularly held 30–40 birds during the year and 45 were present at Whitfield Valley NR on January 30th. W Mid This species is a common and widespread breeder throughout the county. It was recorded on over 2,500 occasions via BirdTrack with birds present at 212 sites and with 100 of these occurring during the breeding season. In addition, notable counts include 50 at Buckpool and Foot Hole NR on January 1st, 145 at Olton Mere on January 31st, 44 in the Sandwell Valley on October 23rd and 34 at Allesley Park on December 12th,

144 Jackdaw Coloeus monedula Very common resident. Green-listed Warks The number of breeding pairs on three of the HLS farms remained fairly stable with 2017. Farm 2018 2017 Aylesmore Farm, Upper Brailes 6 8 Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth 6 3 Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton 6 4

Maximum counts in the first winter period were 350 at Farnborough on January 11th, 400 at Wormleighton village on 15th and 27th, 1,000 in a maize game cover at Dunnington on 21st, 530 at Manor Farm, Draycote and 800 at Castle Farm, - Studley, both on February 5th, and 800 on fields near Wormleighton Res on 13th. Autumn and second winter maxima included 350 at Priors Hardwick on September 15th, 500 at Morton Bagot on November 18th, a yearly high of 1,200 at Ladywalk NR on 21st, 500 at Wormleighton village on 28th, 200 at Salford Priors GP on December 9th, 1190 at Manor Farm - Draycote on 12th and 220 at Wormleighton Res on 18th. A bird showing the characters associated with the nominate subspecies, or ‘Nordic’ type, was observed at Packwood on March 22nd ARD. Worcs Upton Warren Flashes had 250 on January 23rd and 200 on February 13th with 400 here in the usual autumn gathering on September 23rd. There were 250 at Naunton Beauchamp on February 6th and Kemerton Lake NR had 350 on June 14th feeding on cherries in the woodland. Little Comberton had 115 on August 14th with 95 at Bevere Island on September 10th and 130 at Bittell Reservoirs on November 7th. The highest county figures were at Throckmorton Landfill with 650 in a nightly roost from mid-November to the year end. Wick had 220 on arable land on December 19th and 250 roosted at dusk at Kemerton Lake NR on the 20th whilst up to 16 were present in a Little Comberton garden early in the month. Staffs Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 100 400 300 370 987 101 468 908 1300

Treble-figure flocks in the first winter period were 1,000 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich, 250 at Chillington Pool, 200 at Clay Mills, 131 at Croxall Lakes, 128 at Doxey Marshes and 120 at Leawood and Sutton. Early April saw 150 at Keele University and 120 at Chillington Pool and on May 23rd there were 120 at Burton-on-Trent. Visible migration tabulated above occurred between September 20th and November 2nd. In the summer there were regular high counts at Blithfield Res with 446 on July 3rd, 200 at Branston GP on 7th, 600 at River Sow Meadows on 28th and 120 at Chillington Pool on 30th. High counts in the second winter period were 800 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich, 400 at Cheddleton/Consall Valley, 380 at Chillington, 200 at Aqualate Mere and Whitmore - Bent Lane, 184 at Sharpley Heath, 150 at Stableford and Toadhole Bridge - Colwich, 120 at Weston Jones Farm and 100 at Gunstone and Keele University. W Mid This species was recorded at 121 sites across the county with 63 of these during the breeding season. Four pairs nested at Marsh Lane NR with little success and confirmed breeding only took place at four other sites! High counts included 200 at Marston Green on February 5th, 400+ at Marsh Lane NR on July 30th, 240 associating with other corvids at Eastcote on August 15th, 250 in the Sandwell Valley on November 1st, c.1000 at Castle Hills on 13th,, 360 at Berkswell on December 6th and 400 at Olton Mere on 14th.

145 Rook Corvus frugilegus Very common or abundant resident. Warks Rookery nest counts were made at: Bishop’s Itchington (108 in the Itchen Valley near Holmes House), Corley (25 in trees next to the M6 motorway), Cress Hill (40), Halesmore Plantation, Avon Dassett (65), Long Spinney, Willey (155, cf. 122 in 2016), Netherwood Heath (12), Tank Hill, Priors Hardwick (37, cf. 48-50 in 2017), Salford Priors (as per 2017, 48 at the old station site), (30), and Wormleighton (at least 373 nests counted at four rookeries in the parish). The largest flock of the year by some distance was 1,500 in maize game cover crops during a cold spell at Dunnington on January 21st. Other counts of 300-700 were made at Fenny Compton, , Knightcote, Napton Fields, Priors Hardwick, Redhill, Willey and the Wormleighton area. Worcs Reported rookeries included (42 nests), Craycombe (146 nests), Sleaford (160 nests), Sugarloaf Lane (8 nests) and 39 nests in a new site at Rook, Little Stoke, Dave Emley Mill. There was a decrease in sightings at Upton Warren with the highest counts being 40+ on June 22nd and 50+ on December 1st. The highest reported count was for 400 at Redhill on February 15th. In the summer, 72 were in flight at dusk at John Bennett NR on July 14th with 245 in pasture fields at Little Comberton on August 14th. Staffs Rookery records this year (nests in brackets) came from Aqualate Mere, Belvide Res (six), Beresford Dale (six), Croxall Lakes (31), Ingestre (13), Iverley House Farm (eight), Kinver - Potter’s Cross (five), Middleton Lakes, Mottey Meadows NNR, Norbury, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth Res (10), Toadhole Bridge - Colwich and Turbine Cottage & Bunkers Hill (three). In the first winter period, there were 141 at Leawood in January, 120 at Croxall Lakes in January and February, 120 at Heath Hayes - Newlands Brook in February and 120 at Middle Mayfield in March. In the summer there were 100 at Camp Farm and 120 at Croxall Lakes in May and 200+ at Branston GP in July. In the second winter period there were 350 at Whitmore - Bent Lane on November 25th, 150 at Stableford on December 16th, 120 at Croxall Lakes on September 23rd and 100 at Shebdon on September 23rd and at Toadhole Bridge - Colwich in November and December. W Mid Active Rookeries were only reported from two sites, Claregate and Sandwell Valley (ten nests). In addition, birds were reported during the breeding season at Allesley Park, Amblecote, Barston, Blythe Valley Park, Clayhanger Marsh, Sutton Park NNR and Rushall Canal (Walsall). At Marsh Lane NR, numbers were noted as “being considerably down” with a maximum of only 15 on September 23rd. Notable counts were 105 at Meriden on January 25th and 45 at Eastcote on August 15th and December 26th.

146 Carrion Crow Corvus corone Abundant resident. Green-listed Warks Two triple-figure counts were made, 140 at Priors Hardwick on April 21st and 120 at Fenny Compton on October 4th. Further evidence of this species intelligence was demonstrated at Brandon, where one was observed picking up a mussel on Goose Pool and dropping it from height in an attempt to smash open the shell and eat the contents. A pied individual was at Priors Hardwick on September 1st. Worcs At Upton Warren Flashes, at least three Lapwing chicks were predated in May with Black-headed Gull eggs taken in June. Malvern Wood Street had the highest county figures with 150 on May 8th. There were 20 at Bevere Island on February 18th, at Pershore - Avon Meadows on March 8th and between Alvechurch and Bittell Reservoirs on April 20th. Bredon Hill had 20 on September 9th and 32 on December 22nd whilst Pershore - Avon Meadows had 39 on October 26th. Staffs There were 200 at Branston GP in July, 150 at Keele University in August, 150 at Whitmore - Bent Lane from November to December, 105 at Sharpley Heath and 100 at Stableford in December. A total of 19 breeding territories was counted at Coombes Valley while 24 were seen migrating south over Black Bank on October 7th. W Mid Although there was little in the way of breeding information this species was recorded at 173 sites across the county with 2,347 entries via BirdTrack and at that it was probably under- recorded. High counts included 80 at Sheepwash UP on January 6th, 56 at Memorial Park on 18th, c.50 at Marston Green on 20th, 80 at Netherton Res on March 1st, 50+ at Hockley Heath on 9th, 60 at both Barston and Swanshurst Park on April 25th, 45 at Nailcote Hall on June 2nd, 113 at Sutton Park NNR on 14th, 55 at Bickenhill on October 23rd and 65 at Olton Mere on December 14th.

Common Raven Corvus corax Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, resident. Green-listed Warks Still thought to be increasing throughout the county, with confirmed or probable breeding pairs found at: Avon Dassett, Bush Wood, Chesterton Wood, Compton Verney, Fenny Compton (a record four nests in the parish, including one in a garden redwood), Ladywalk NR, Mockley Wood, , Moreton Morrell, Packington Park, Packwood, Rookery (Lowsonford), Rugby, Sawbridge, Shuckburgh Park, Whichford Wood, Willey, Willoughby and Wormleighton (five nests in the parish). A flock of 49 was present on sheep pasture at Priors Hardwick on March 31st attracted by the afterbirths and potential dead lambs, with 36 still there on May 5th. Other good counts were 19 at Fenny Compton on June 1st, 18 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on September 30th, 17 at Knightcote on December 4th and ten at Grandborough Fields on 22nd. Worcs Pairs bred successfully in an ancient flat-topped Cedar tree at Bricklehampton Hall and on a communications tower on Bredon Hill. Other successful nesting was reported from Wood and the Longdon Marsh area where there was a pair with two newly-fledged juveniles on June 18th. A pair bred on the transmitter masts at Upton Warren but although young were being fed, it is feared that the nest was abandoned early. Also at Upton Warren, one was seen with nest material on May 27th so another attempt locally was possible. There was also a reduction in the sightings at Upton Warren with reports received on 89 dates compared with 142 in 2017. A family party of four was at Knightwick on May 21st. Breeding season pairs were also reported from Arley, Blackstone, Calcot Hill, Clent Hills, Croome Court, Eymore Wood, Finstall Park, Hanbury Hall, Hell Hole, Malvern Hills, Nutnells Wood, Penorchard Meadows, Stanford on Teme, Stoke Bliss, Walton Hill, Wassell Grove, Weymans Wood and Woodbury

147 Hill. A pair at Wick mobbed intruding Common Buzzards on April 13th. A very tame bird was present at Bromsgrove bus station on January 19th being fed on benches. There were 42 together at Bredon Hill summit on February 13th with seven at Little Comberton on the 18th. Eight were in a Wyre Forest square on April 18th with six at Pershore - Avon Meadows on August 23rd and also at Timberhonger on September 22nd. A group of seven was over Little Comberton on August 6th with at least 12 birds at Throckmorton Landfill on September 23rd. On December 28th, there were eight at and six at Evesham Greenhill. Staffs Six pairs were confirmed breeding with a further 12 probable pairs. The highest counts were 60 at Coombes Valley on March 9th and up to 24 at Cheddleton during the year. W Mid In 2017 birds were present during the breeding season at 20 sites, this year that dropped to 15 locations with birds present at Allesley, Berkswell (one, possibly, two pairs), (three chicks), Coundon Wedge (one pair), Kingswinford, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR, Monkspath, Nailcote Hall, Olton Mere, Sandwell Valley, Seth Somers Park, Stirchley and Sutton Park NNR. Outside the breeding season, birds were recorded at a further 37 locations, many of these urban locations. At Marsh Lane NR there were 67 sightings throughout the year with birds prospecting Siden Hill Wood, but the breeding Common Buzzards and the frequency of Peregrine visits likely proved to be a deterrent. High counts included five at Chelmsley Wood on April 15th, five at Yardley Wood on August 21st and six over Berkswell on November 26th.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Erratic, and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally numerous in invasion years (9/10). Staffs One was present briefly at Northycote Farm on October 30th ILy, the next flew over a Cheddleton garden on December 6th DAS, six were present at Hednesford - West Hill on 24th to year’s end many observers and one was present at Talke on 26th MBa. W Mid If 2017 was a bumper year for the county, then 2018 took it to the other extreme with just one flock of seven birds reported at Little Park Street (Coventry) on December 1st Birdguides.

2017 Corrigenda Staffs Replace all the text for 2017 with the following. In the first winter period, birds continued their presence from the end of 2016. The higher counts are listed as follows. At Biddulph, up to 12 birds were present between January 1st and 6th, 40 on February 20th and up to 80 between March 1st and 5th; 40 were present at Burntwood on January 25th with 30 on March 31st; 20 at Burslem on April 26th; up to 15 at Burton-on-Trent on January 29th and 30th; up to 80 at Cannock (Langdale Green) between January 25th and 29th; up to 80 on Cannock Chase between January 5th and 25th; 24 at Chasewater Res on January 20th; 20 at Cheadle on January 18th; up to 40 at Codsall between February 3rd and 7th; 15 at Fenton on March 11th, 16 at Goldenhill on January 6th; 30 at Hanley on January 8th; 25 at Keele University on April 13th; up to 50 at Kidsgrove during January; 30 at Kinver on January 7th; up to 40 at Lichfield - Beacon Park from January 15th–18th and March 5th; 20 at Loggerheads on April 14th; 15 at Madeley on February 28th and March 1st; up to 90 at Newcastle-under-Lyme in January with 40 in February and 17 on April 29th and 30th; 20 at Penkridge on January 30th and 31st with up to 50 in February; 15 at Perton on February 6th; 17 at Porthill on April 29th; 23 at Rocester on January 28th; 15 at Stafford on January 17th with 40 on March 24th; up to 16 at Stoke-on-Trent in January with 30 in February and 35 in March; up to 30 at Talke in late January; up to 32 at Tamworth from February 12th–16th; 20 at Trentham Gardens on March 16th; 40 at Wildwood Park on March 24th and 18 at Wolstanton on February 7th. The last birds seen were at Cannock on May 17th and were the only sightings in May. There were no sightings in the second winter period.

148 Coal Tit Periparus ater Common to very common resident and irruptive winter visitor. Green-listed Warks Over 500 records were submitted via BirdTrack, but more than half did not include any count data and very few comments were made. The only breeding counts were six territories in 1km² of large gardens and spinneys at Fenny Compton, and two pairs in the plantation at Salford Priors GP. The largest counts were 11 in farmland west of Kenilworth Castle on September 30th, and at least 12 in a mixed tit flock at Farnborough Park on December 3rd. Worcs At least six breeding pairs were found at Old Yew Hill Wood with numerous pairs on the mid-slopes of Bredon Hill. Sightings were made on 63 dates in the year at Upton Warren. Hell Hole had nine on January 1st with the same number at Woodbury Hill on February 7th and 12 here on March 25th. Arley Wood had eight in a mixed tit flock on February 24th. A Wyre Forest grid square had eight on June 10th and 30th. Park Plantation had 13 on November 25th with 13 at Burlish Top on December 31st. Staffs The highest site counts came from Hanchurch Woods with 47 on July 6th, Churnet Valley with 30 in May and 11 at Kingswood Bank on December 22nd. W Mid This species was recorded at 111 different locations, many of them noted whilst visiting feeders in suburban gardens. During the breeding season birds were recorded at 45 locations which is the average for the last few years. Confirmed breeding came from Redhouse Lane - , Sutton Park NNR and Wylde Green. The highest counts were of nine, at Boldmere - Sutton Coldfield on April 8th and at Parkes Hall Res on June 5th.

Marsh Tit Poecile palustris Fairly common resident. Red-listed Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Avon Dassett, Bannam’s Wood, Brandon (two), Burton Dassett, Bush Wood (four), Chesterton Wood, Compton Verney (two), Coombe CP (five-six), Ladywalk NR, Lowsonford, Mockley Wood (three), New Fallings Coppice, Wormleighton Res and Yarningale Common. Other records during the nesting season came from Crackley Wood, Fenny Compton, Hobley’s Furze (Monks Kirby), Lark Stoke, Little Compton, Middleton Lakes, Morton Bagot, Oxhouse Farm, Ryton Pools CP, Ryton Wood, Sutton-under-Brailes and Tysoe. During the year birds were noted at c.54 sites, and over the last ten years the population in the county seems to have remained fairly stable. The two highest counts were eight at Oversley Wood on November 17th and six at Compton Verney on 25th. Worcs Once again, there was a reduction in the number of reporting sites this year at 46 (55 in 2017, 62 in 2016) with many previous sites in the south of the county now deserted. At least two pairs were present in spring at Tiddesley Wood and Bredon Hill. Five birds were in a Wyre Forest grid square on April 1st and also on June 10th. One was taking nest material into a hole in an Apple tree in the Malvern Hills on April 4th and family parties were found on Midsummer Hill on June 4th, on Chase End Hill on the 6th and at Broadway on the 16th. At least one pair was successful at Birchen Coppice with two pairs here from February to May. Ladywood Common and Perry Wood each had three/four pairs present in early spring with two pairs at both Rock Coppice and Weymans Wood. Two adults with two juveniles were in a Shakenhurst garden on June 9th. An adult with three juveniles was at Mill Farm Stanford on Teme on June 15th. Three juveniles were at Castlemorton Common on June 16th with two caught and ringed here. Bredon Hill had 14 on October 7th and there were five at Woodbury Hill on October 30th. Both Temple Dingle and Perry Wood had counts of six on November 8th and December 7th respectively. Staffs Birds were recorded all year, but with a third of the number of Willow Tit records. Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Milldale and Wettonmill, probably occurred in Hall Dale, Manifold Valley and Middle Mayfield and there were breeding season records from three

149 other sites. Non-breeding season sightings came from just five other sites which could also be potential breeding sites due to the sedentary nature of this species. W Mid Two birds were seen in Sutton Park NNR, near Powell’s Pool on January 25th SDa and in Longmoor Valley on October 16th JMe. Elsewhere, singles were seen at Boldmere on January 25th SDa and finally, at Kingfisher CP on December 11th SDa.

Willow Tit Poecile montana Uncommon to scarce resident; almost rare in Worcs. Red-listed Warks A similar picture to the last couple of years, with the population remaining low but at least stable. Successful nesting was confirmed at Brandon, Kingsbury WP and Middleton Lakes, although at each no more than one or two pairs/ territories were found. At Ladywalk NR three pairs were thought to be present, although one had their nest site usurped by Marsh Tits. A maximum of two pairs were at Coombe CP, a pair may have attempted at Wormleighton Res and also noted during the breeding season at Lea Marston Lake, Pooley Willow Tit, Rudyard Lake, Steve Seal CP and Whitacre Heath NR. At other times of the year also noted at Coleshill, Dairy Farm, Forest of Arden GC, Hampton Wood and Oxhouse Farm, bringing the number of reporting locations up to 14. As way of comparison, if we go back 10 years to 2008, birds were reported from 47 sites. Worcs One was calling at a west county location on January 1st with one singing here on February 7th and two birds present on the 17th, one singing and one calling nearby JSp, RMa. Although a singing male was present until April 7th, no evidence of breeding was obtained. At another west county site, a singing male was found on April 26th GHP. Staffs Willow Tit continues to be more common than Marsh Tit in the county. It was recorded all year, widely scattered throughout the county and noted in most 10 km squares. Breeding was confirmed at Brinepit Bridge - Caverswall, Chasewater Res, Kingswood Bank, and Uttoxeter Quarry and probably occurred at 19 further sites. The highest counts were six at Westport Lake on January 25th and five at Tittesworth Res on 26th. W Mid This species is faring badly having now disappeared from previous strongholds. There were signs of optimism in 2016 with an increase in records but unfortunately that trend was short lived. In the Sandwell Valley up to three birds were recorded throughout the year mainly during the winter visiting the feeders at the RSPB centre many observers. Elsewhere, the only other records refer to single birds at Park Lime Pits on February 15th MPi. And the NEC Lake on April 24th LHam. As little as ten years ago birds were present during the breeding season at 17 sites in the county!

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Abundant resident. Green-listed Warks As per 2017, 31 nest boxes were occupied at Brandon, with 228 young fledging (cf. 201 in 2017). Other nesting counts received were 12 territories at Middleton Lakes and three

150 pairs using boxes at both Abbey Fields and Earlswood Lakes. At the latter, two were in bat boxes. Counts of at least 30 came from: Barcheston, Brandon, Coldcomfort Wood, Coughton Fields, Farnborough Park, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Ragley Fields, Saxon Mill - Warwick and Wormleighton Res, with highs of 37 on February 28th and 38 on November 23rd feeding on the seed of Lesser Reedmace Typha angustifolia in the swamp at Napton Res. Worcs At Bodenham Arboretum, 25 nest boxes were utilised with three deserted before laying. Four boxes used by Blue Tits in previous years were occupied by hornets. In the remaining boxes, 190 eggs were laid from which 183 hatched and 169 young successfully fledged including all from one clutch of 12. (2017 – 184 eggs laid, 135 young fledged). Six pairs were also successful in boxes in a Stoke Bliss garden. A bird at Wythall regularly took cat fur from a garden tidy in April. There were 20 at Greystones in January and March and Pershore - Avon Meadows had frequent high counts including 23 on February 8th and 30 on October 20th. Swinyard Hill had 30 on June 12th with 25 at Malvern - Wood Street on the 13th. Westwood Pool had 24 on April 22nd and several Wyre Forest grid squares had over 20 birds in spring and December. Staffs Maximum site counts were 63 at Stoneydelph on October 6th, 54 at Kingswood Bank on December 22nd and 40 at Middleton Lakes on February 1st. There were 36 territories at Churnet Valley NR and 24 at Coombes Valley. W Mid There were just under 2,500 entries on BirdTrack but little information was forthcoming on actual numbers successfully breeding, the vast majority of entries noting that the species was merely “Present”. At Marsh Lane NR at least 17 pairs nested which is broadly in line with previous years. Throughout the county birds were recorded from a total 196 sites, the vast majority of which were during the breeding season. But as a good proportion of suburban gardens with a nest box will have breeding pairs even that figure would be a vast underestimate. The only counts of note were 25 from the Sandwell Valley on January 1st, 27 in Sutton Park NNR on April 21st, 55 at Nailcote Hall on 22nd, 25 Blythe Valley Park on September 9th and 40 at Allesley Park on December 22nd.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Green-listed Warks At Brandon, 18 pairs used nest boxes (cf. 14 in in 2017 and 16 in 2016), successfully fledging 122 young, and there were 11 territories at Middleton Lakes. Compared to the previous species, there were only three counts of 30 or more: 32 at Coughton Fields on February 6th and parties of 30 in Hobley’s Furze - Monks Kirby on August 24th and 35 at Farnborough Park on December 3rd. Worcs At Bodenham Arboretum, 21 nest boxes were utilised with one abandoned before laying. In the remaining boxes, 147 eggs were laid from which 132 hatched and 115 young successfully fledged including all 11 from one box. (2017 – 127 eggs laid, 97 fledged). There were ten at Eymore Wood on January 4th and 20 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 25th and also on May 10th. Burlish Top had 12 on March 12th with ten at Malvern - Wood Street on the 14th and 12 at Ipsley Alders on April 10th whilst Westwood Pool had 27 on the 22nd. Wild Goose NR had counts of ten on September 27th and 11 on October 4th. Croome Park had 17 on November 4th with double-figure counts at Wild Goose NR and Pershore - Avon Meadows in the second winter period. Staffs The maximum site counts were 47 at Kingswood Bank on December 22nd and 25 at Middleton Lakes on February 1st and Stoneydelph on October 6th. There were 11 territories at Churnet Valley NR. W Mid This species, like the previous one, was popular on BirdTrack with 2,244 entries, but again little information was forthcoming other than “Present”. At Marsh Lane NR there were 16 pairs which was down on last year’s 19, but broadly in line with previous years. Elsewhere, birds were recorded from a total of 186 sites, the majority of which were during the breeding

151 season. Rest assured, if Blue Tits didn’t take advantage of the available suburban nest boxes then invariably it was this species that was the beneficiary. Accurate counts are sparse with the only counts in excess of 25 restricted to 28 at Nailcote Hall on April 22nd, with 30 in the Sandwell Valley on October 23rd and 40 there on November 6th.

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus Rare winter visitor, much reduced since 1994 (5/10). Green-listed Warks At Napton Res the over- wintering male that had arrived the previous October was last reported on March 28th JJB, DPD, TMa, KYa, when it was also heard singing. A second bird was also present on a few days during March TMa, TdeC. A pair were back here on October 17th JGB and were reported intermittently until December 16th. There were four reports from Brandon during October and November, including a male on October 28th BMVCT. Staffs A female was present at Tittesworth Res on October 22nd, a Bearded Tit, Napton Res, Theo de Clermont site first DCollis.

Woodlark Lullula arborea Resident until 1960s, then a rare visitor and now an uncommon breeding species. Green-listed Warks One just south of on March 18th RED was the first in the county since 2007, the most recent spring record having come at Priors Hardwick in April 2004. Worcs One was still present at Lincomb on January 1st GHP, following the five here in December 2017. This bird stayed in the area until January 29th consorting with a group of Skylarks. In April, one flew over the pools at Wassell Grove on the 23rdCRo and in November, one flew calling over the River Severn at Ripple Pits on the 5thRAP . Staffs Twelve territories were reported on Cannock Chase compared with 34 (full survey), 15, 15, 20, 14 and 16 in the previous six years. One bird was singing at a site away from the Chase (site and observers withheld). W Mid A single bird was seen on March 4th at Lutley Wedge CRo.

Skylark Alauda arvensis Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Red-listed Warks It was a good year on the HLS farms, with three enjoying noticeable rises in territory numbers. Farm 2018 2017 2016 Aylesmore Farm, Upper Brailes 27 18 20 Highfield Farm, Honington 53 45 46 Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth 20 25 24 Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton 60 52 54

152 Amongst the limited number of other breeding counts received were at least five singing males at Birchmoor, nine displaying over farmland west of Kenilworth and 16 singing in the Milcote/Weston-on-Avon area. In the first winter period, flock counts were on the low side, with highs of 44 at Watchbury (Barford) on February 17th and 58 at Manor Farm, Draycote on March 6th. In autumn, a total of 3,005 passed over Coleman’s Hill to the south and south-west between late August and mid-November, with a high of 301 on October 7th DRi. Elsewhere, visible migration counts or feeding flocks of note included 230 south-west at Fenny Compton in 90 minutes in late morning on October 5th, 170 grounded by rain at Salford Priors GP on 7th, 390 on Church Hill, Wormleighton on 17th, 100 in a ploughed field at Welford-on-Avon on 19th and 300 on stubble at Knightcote on 20th. Other good counts later in the year were 112 at Wishaw on December 22nd and 100 at Highfield Farm, Honington on 29th. Worcs Clifton upon Teme had 50 on winter stubble on January 11th rising to 100 on February 7th and 120 on the 15th. Also in January, Wassell Grove had 27 on the 5th, Leigh Sinton had 20 on the 28th and Hanley William had 25 on the 30th. There were 35 at Wick on February 26th with 20 at Shakenhurst on March 4th and 35 at Ripple Pits on the 18th. At Bredon Hill, 25 pairs were holding territory on April 5th with ten pairs at Longdon Marsh on the 20th. Three pairs bred at Wick with two pairs at Lower Moor. In the autumn, Clifton upon Teme had 50 on September 27th with 100 at Bredon Hill on October 7th and 35 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 18th. At least 20 were at Bittell Reservoirs on October 20th with 50 at Perry Farm on the 25th ad 40 at Moor End on the 26th. Rous Lench had 30 on December 4th with 40 at Wick on the 19th on which date 60 were feeding in winter stubble at North Littleton and Clifton Pits had 60 on the 23rd. Staffs The largest counts in the first winter period were 62 at Whitemoor Haye on March 3rd, 60 at Whittington on February 26th, 48 at I54 on January 14th and 40 at Kemsey Manor on February 11th. The first singing bird was at Silverdale CP on January 26th then Audley on February 2nd. Breeding was confirmed at Doxey Marshes (seven pairs) and Hixon Airfield (25+ pairs), but there was probable/possible breeding, mostly singing birds, at an additional 52 sites including Crossplains (16 territories), I54 (14), Black Bank (11), Berry Hill (11) and Gibbets Wood Quarry (11). Visible migration was recorded between September 21st and November 17th mainly from Black Bank, Berry Hill, Belvide Res, Iverley House Farm and Knypersley Res. Autumn Visible Migration Year 2009 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 84 550 596 253 346 471 217 76 325 425

Late year flock counts included 200 at Hixon Airfield on November 22nd, 120 at Cresswell on December 2nd, 80 at Belvide Res in mid-November, 78 at I54 on October 21st, 75 at Crossplains on December 4th and 50 at Belvide Res on November 20th and Cuckoo Bank on December 24th. W Mid Birds were present at 48 sites during the year with 22 sites holding birds during the breeding season (cf. 21 in 2017). At Marsh Lane NR and in the immediate vicinity there were up to five pairs, but it is not known if any of these bred. Highest counts in the first quarter included 27 at Lutley Wedge on January 1st. Some autumn passage counts came from Marsh Lane NR and Sutton Park NNR, with 22 and 30 over on October 7th (with 30 over at the former on 21st) followed by 32 at Smestow Valley LNR on November 18th, 30 at Minworth STW and 40 in the general Minworth area on December 20th and 20 at Allesley on 30th.

153 Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (2/10) Worcs The ninth record for the county was found on Malvern – Sugarloaf Hill on October 19th WSi and obligingly stayed in the area giving excellent views to observers until the 23rd.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident and Shore Lark, Malvern - North Hill, Andy Warr passage migrant. Green-listed

Long-term average: March 19th (83) to October 11th (83) 8-year average: March 10th (9 days earlier) to October 8th (3 days earlier) First arrival: March 10th; Upton Warren Moors (Worcs) Last departure: November 21st; Ladywalk NR (Warks)

Warks Given the dearth of breeding records submitted in recent years, it was pleasing to receive notification of at least three pairs nesting in drainage pipes in garden walls backing onto the river at Bidford-on-Avon. Up to 20 pairs were also using an artificial nesting structure that had been completed in 2017 at Kingsbury WP. At the more regularly observed sites, 74 young fledged from 22 nesting attempts at Brandon (cf. 130 young fledged from 46 breeding attempts in 2017) and 15-20 pairs nested along the River Tame at Ladywalk NR. At the latter, most nests were submerged by flooding at the end of May, although later attempts met with more success. The first spring arrivals were on March 12th, with one at Draycote and three at Ladywalk NR. At Kingsbury WP 17 were present on 15th, increasing to 50 on 29th. As spring progressed the highest counts were 150 at Kingsbury WP on April 12th, 300 also there on 30th and 250 at Earlswood Lakes on May 2nd. In the post-breeding season, flock sizes were low, with the last decent counts 20 at Earlswood Lakes on September 22nd and 30 at Salford Priors GP and 40 at Brandon on 23rd. The final bird of the year was at Ladywalk NR on the very late date of November 21st per SFr, beating the previous record for the Region at Belvide Res on November 13th 1977. Worcs Two were at Upton Warren Moors on March 10th with six at Clifton Pits and eight at Grimley on the 12th. Ripple Pits had 30 on March 30th, 150 on April 24th, 200 on the 28th and 150 on May 2nd. Upton Warren had 60 on April 7th and 80 on the 17th with 40 at Lower Moor on the 12th and 50 at Salwarpe on the 13th. There were 90 at Clifton Pits on April 24th, 20 at Westwood Pool on the 28th and 40 over floodwaters at Wood Norton river meadows on the 30th. At Knightwick there were 13 nests by the River Teme on May 23rd with young being fed in a sand pile at Holt on June 20th. There were at least 20 nests in the sand quarries at Wildmoor on June 23rd. In August, Ripple Pits had 30 on the 19th with 25 at Camp Lane Pits on the 28th. Three were at Kemerton Lake NR and five at Throckmorton Lagoons on September 22nd with the final report of the year for a single bird at Upton Warren Moors on the 23rd. Staffs The first arrivals were six at Belvide Res on March 12th which also held thefirst double-figure count of 28 on March 27th with 110 through the next day and 100 on30th. There were 100 at Whitemoor Haye on 31st. The only treble-figure counts in April were 150 at Chasewater Res and 100 at Aqualate Mere on 7th and 100 at Chasewater Res on 25th and 27th. Breeding was confirmed only at Toadhole Bridge - Colwich with two small colonies. Probable

154 breeding occurred at Whitemoor Haye on the new gravel workings. In the autumn the only significant counts were 70 at Belvide Res on July 28th and 200 at Chasewater Res on August 16th. There were records through to mid-September with the last of the year seeming to be on 23rd with one at Bilbrook, 10 at Belvide Res and Chasewater Res, three at Forster Bridge and one at Knypersley Res but an extremely late bird was then seen at Radford Meadows on October 28th. This is the latest recorded date this millennium and probably the latest on record. W Mid There was little breeding information forthcoming this year apart from a small colony at Mercote Mill which consisted of about 30 pairs. Bird were only reported from four sites during the breeding season (cf.19 sites in 2017)! This on face value would indicate a calamitous reduction, but one hopes it is due to under-recording than anything more sinister. Passage this year was slow with the first birds not appearing until March 28th when three were noted in the Sandwell Valley and then it was mid-April before any significant numbers were seen. Notable counts were c.40 at Bartley Res on April 28th, 60 at Mercote Mill on June 25th and 60 at Marsh Lane NR on August 11th. Return passage appears to have been well underway by mid-August with few seen after the end of the month. The final record was of two at Marsh Lane NR until September 9th.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Green-listed

Long-term average: March 29th (84) to November 5th (84) 8-year average: March 17th (12 days earlier) to November 6th (1 day later) First arrival: March 9th; Draycote (Warks) Last departure: November 9th; Belvide Res (Staffs)

Warks Local breeding success was indicated by a flock of 85 at Farnborough on July 1st, which contained many young, as did 95 on wires at Church Hill, Wormleighton on 21st. At Baddesley Clinton, one pair still had young in the nest on the late date of September 22nd. There were a couple of early arrivals, with one at Draycote on March 9th and 11th, another at Ladywalk NR on 12th, and probably the same Draycote bird again on 13th. The first gathering of note was 35 at Abbots Salford on April 8th, followed by 130 in drizzle at Napton Res on 11th and 100 at Draycote on 13th. The peak period for passage was the final week of the month, when 100 were at Earlswood Lakes on 25th, 170 at Napton Res during steady rain on 27th and 200 at Earlswood Lakes on 29th. Surprisingly, there were no large counts during this time from the Tame Valley. The highest post-breeding flocks were 350 at Fenny Compton August 28th, 300 at the Burton Dassett Hills on 31st and 250 at Shustoke Res on September 23rd. Other gatherings of 100-200 in August and September were noted at: Alcester, Dairy Farm, Earlswood Lakes, Hillmorton Locks, Priors Hardwick, Radway, Salford Priors GP and Stockton Cutting. Counts of migrants included 1367 past Coleman’s Hill on September 2nd and 208 over Saxon Mill (Warwick) on 20th. Small numbers continued to be seen into October, with the final report three flying through to the south at Fenny Compton on 18th. Worcs Upton Warren Moors had the first arrival and the only March report in the county on the 29th with the next visitor at Westwood Pool on April 2nd. Upton Warren also had good numbers in April with 55 on the 12th, 110 on the 17th and 60 on the 24th. Clifton Pits had 35 on April 24th whilst on the 27th, there were 30 at Arrow Lake, 40 at Lower Moor and 100 at Ripple Pits. Westwood Pool had 100 on April 28th and 150 on May 2nd whilst there were 85 over floodwater at Wood Norton river meadows on April 30th and 40 at Ripple Pits on May 25th. In July, John Bennett NR had 191 on the 14th including 40+ roosting in Typha with 30 here on August 7th. Lower Park had 35 on August 8th whilst Pershore - Avon Meadows had 72 on the 23rd and Upton Warren had 60 on the 26th. Both Lower Moor and Westwood Pool had 40 on September 10th with 45 at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 22nd and 40 at Upton Warren on the 23rd. Significant numbers were recorded migrating in the Teme Valley including August 31st

155 – 253, September 1st – 638, September 2nd – 968 and September 15th – 200. October reports came from John Bennett NR on the 7th, Camp Lane Pits on the 9th, Bredon Hill ten on the 16th with the latest bird at Upton Warren Moors on the 29th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed or suspected at just 16 sites (34 last year). The first birds of the year were at Chasewater Res on March 26th with seven there on 27th. There was a scattering of arrivals through the final few days of March, gradually building into April. The first double- figure counts were 11 at Chasewater Res on April 4th and 20 at Doxey Res on 6th. The largest spring counts were 100 at Doxey Marshes on April 12th, 100 at Cheddleton/Consall Valley on 15th, 127 at Chasewater Res on 27th and 100 at Doxey Marshes on 29th. Birds began gathering into larger concentrations in August, the best being 100 at Belvide Res on 11th and 110 at Ingestre on 14th. In September there were 200 at Blithfield Res and 120 at Chasewater Res on 8th, 300 at Belvide Res, 150 at Chasewater Res and 111 at Shebdon on 23rd, 300 roosting at Whittington (Farm) on 25th and 150 at Radford Meadows on 28th. Visible migration was recorded from August 2nd to October 16th, primarily at Berry Hill and Black Bank, but was very poor compared with previous years, the highest count being just 152 over Berry Hill on September 22nd. Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 3,900 5,000 7,800 3,040 5,200 4,530 2,500 5,300 980

The last birds of the year were two at Doxey Marshes on October 16th then a very late bird at Belvide Res on November 9th. W Mid This species was recorded at 63 locations during the breeding season, a slight increase on last year. Breeding data was scarce with reports from Alexander Stadium, Berkswell, Chadwick End, Fens Pools LNR, Netherton Res, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park NNR, Trittiford Mill Pool and Westwood Heath. The earliest arrival was a bird seen at Reedswood Park on March 20th, which was the only March record. It was April 7th before more sporadic appearances and late- April before any significant counts were noted. The highest spring counts were 40 at Bartley Res and 40 at Lifford Res on April 28th and 20 at Hampton in Arden and 100 at Marsh Lane NR on 29th. Autumn passage was in full swing by the last week of August petering out by mid-September with the last bird recorded on October 28th at Sandwell Valley. Notable counts during this period were 130 Sutton Park NNR on August 11th, with 120 there on 23rd and 80 at Olton Mere on 24th.

House Martin Delichon urbicum Common to very common summer resident and passage migrant. Amber-listed

Long-term average: April 4th (84) to November 1st (84) 8-year average: March 25th (10 days earlier) to October 26th (6 days earlier) First arrival: March 29th; Audley WTW (Staffs) Last departure: October 24th; Throckmorton Lagoons (Worcs)

Warks The large nesting colony in Warwick town centre continues to thrive, with a minimum of 57 active nests in early June (cf. 54 in 2016). A less positive picture was painted in Fenny Compton, with numbers thought to be well down on previous years, but with one colony of 18 nests at The Wharf. On the Packington Estate, 25 pairs were present, with 15 at the Forest of Arden Hotel (cf. 60 in 2005) and 10 at Packington Hall. The wider situation in the north of the county remains unclear, and the submission of more records and comments from here is to be encouraged. Other nesting counts included 30 pairs at Draycote Sailing Club, and around 10 pairs in both Lower Quinton and Stretton-on-Fosse. The first of the year appeared at Brandon on April 3rd, followed by another at Kingsbury WP on 4th and two at Warwick on 5th. The best

156 spring passage counts were 90 at Alvecote Pools on 29th, 100 at Kingsbury WP on 30th and 200 at Salford Priors GP on May 25th. Return passage witnessed some very impressive numbers, with the highest in August of 350 feeding low in rain at Salford Priors GP on 12th. The main movement came in the penultimate week in September, with 6,192 over Coleman’s Hill on the morning of 19th DRi, and 1,168 passing over Saxon Mill (Warwick) on 20th LBr, JBr. In October, 36 were still at Shustoke Res on 8th and the last of the year was over Coleman’s Hill on 16th. Worcs One was seen over the Malvern Hills on April 5th with one at Upton Warren Moors on the 6th. John Bennett NR had 110 on April 12th, Wick had 30 on the 13th when Wood Norton also had 30 over floodwaters and Ripple Pits had 80 on the 27th and 200 on the 28th. Camp Lane Pits had 50 on April 29th and Westwood Pool had 50 on the 28th with 75 here on May 2nd. Two artificial nests at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged five and four young respectively. There were 35 active nests at Croome Park and 80, adults and juveniles, present here on August 11th. Ripple Pits had the highest August count with 200 on the 16th. Also on August 16th, Kemerton Lake NR had 50 with 100 over the Malvern Hills on the 27th and 93 at Lower Moor and 40 at Camp Lane Pits on the 28th. Upton Warren had counts of 50 on August 9th, 60 on the 13th, 40 on September 4th and 45 on the 8th. Salwarpe had 30 on September 2nd and at Carpenters Farm Berrow, there were 55 sunning on a barn roof on the 5th. High numbers were observed migrating down the Teme Valley in September with 75 on the 10th and an impressive 500 on the 15th. Little Comberton had loose flocks totalling 160 on September 16th and 54 on the 19th. Upton Warren had 100 on September 18th and there were 120 at Westwood Pool on the 19th whilst John Bennett NR had 95, mostly juveniles, on the 23rd. Adults were still visiting an occupied nest at Beckford on September 10th with 40 at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 22nd. There were two October reports with a single at Redditch - Oakenshaw on the 2nd and a very late bird at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 24th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at just four sites and suspected at a further nine. A total of 15 pairs attempted at Keele University compared to 12, 22, 18, 14, 15, 12, seven, four and nine in the past nine years. The first birds were two at Audley WTW on March 29th followed by one at Gailey Res on 31st. There was a more general arrival in early April with the first double-figure counts of 10 at Belvide Res and 11 at Branston GP on 10th. Maximum spring counts were poor, with the best being 50 at Bilbrook on April 21st, 100 at I54 on 29th, 100 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich on May 3rd and 100 at Chasewater Res and 150 at Doxey Marshes on 11th.

Year 2008 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Breeding Sites 40 66 50 32 29 35 20 29 14 11 13

The best of the post-breeding flocks were 250 at Belvide Res on August 11th, 100 at Berry Hill on 21st, 200 at Branston GP on 24th, 200 at Toadhole Bridge - Colwich on 25th, 100 at Branston GP on 27th, 250 at Doxey Marshes and 200 at Radford Meadows on 28th, 166 at Doxey Marshes on September 7th, 200 at Chasewater Res on 8th, 100 at Branston GP on 21st and 150 at Middleton Lakes and 200 at Radford Meadows on 22nd. Visible migration was reported between August 24th and October 16th totalling 1,442 birds (compared with 878, 360, 258, 325, 700, 4,600 and 1,800 in the previous seven years). There were eight October records, with the last of the year being one over Doxey Marshes and five over Little Iverley Covert on 16th. W Mid This species was recorded from 68 sites of which 22 were during the breeding season which would indicate a drastic reduction (cf. 47 in 2017). However, breeding was confirmed at more sites this year with pairs at Alexander Stadium, Allesley, Bartley Res, Berkswell, Catherine-de-Barnes, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools LNR, Ladywood, Marsh Lane NR, Reedswood Park, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park NNR and Witton Lakes. The first bird was recorded in the Sandwell Valley on April 5th and apart from the odd record birds didn’t arrive in earnest until the end of April. The only spring flocks of note was 60 at Hampton in Arden on April 29th.

157 Autumn passage picked up in the last week of August with flocks of 40+ reported from Berkswell, Lutley Wedge, Marsh Lane NR (100+), Seth Somers Park (120), Sutton Park NNR, with 100+ on September 8th and Wylde Green. The latest records came from Marsh Lane NR and Parkes Hall Res on September 24th.

Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica Very rare vagrant (3/10). Red-rumped Swallow, Belvide Res, Phil Jones Staffs One was present at Belvide Res on April 29th and 30th AMcP, which attracted a large number of admirers. This is the fifth county record and a site first for Belvide Res.

Cetti’s Warbler Cettia cetti Uncommon resident and breeder. Green-listed Warks At the two county strongholds of Brandon and Middleton Lakes there were mixed fortunes. At the former, for the second year running, there was a maximum of 11 singing males, but at the latter there was a fall to 10 territories (cf. 17 in 2017), possibly attributable to the cold snap at the end of February. Around three or four pairs were estimated at Ladywalk NR, and similar numbers were present in the Alvecote Pools area and Kingsbury WP. Birds were also recorded at three additional sites in the Tame Valley during the breeding season. One was holding territory in Warwick, but with the Avon Valley holding much suitable habitat in this part of the county, the population here is likely to be more numerous. In Wellesbourne, one was present along the River Dene during the summer, and the only records from the south-west were at Welford-on-Avon, where one or two were holding territory along the river. Single birds at Fenny Compton STW on February 10th and September 19th were new for the parish. Other occasional records came from Napton Res, Ryton Pools CP, Seeswood Pool, Whittleford Park and Wormleighton Res. Worcs The number of localities recording birds was back at 13, the same as 2016, and up from seven last year. Breeding season reports came from six sites with confirmed breeding at , where a nest was observed on June 15th and at Upton Warren (at least two broods). Singing males were present regularly at the latter site with the best counts being five at the Moors on April 11th, when one was also at the Flashes. Elsewhere, singles were heard at Evesham, Feckenham Wylde Moor, Pershore - Avon Meadows, Ripple pits and Westwood Pool. In the winter periods additional sites included Coney Meadows, Hewell Grange, Kemerton Lake, Lower Strensham SL (two) and Pershore - Avon Wetlands (two). At Pershore - Avon Meadows, a maximum of three were heard on several dates and at Grimley, the first for the site was present from December 1st to the year end. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate Mere and Doxey Marshes and probably occurred at 13 other sites. Of these, Middleton Lakes held 15 territories. W Mid This species was recorded throughout the year at Marsh Lane NR, with one pair seen with three newly-fledged young on July 11th. Two males were present in late summer at different

158 locations on the reserve many observers. Elsewhere, there was a single at Sandwell Valley on February 3rd PBa with another at Upper Gornal on April 8th CCl.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common to very common resident. Green-listed Warks Breeding counts included three pairs each at Bedworth Nook, Napton Res and Salford Priors GP. At Middleton Lakes, 10 territories were estimated, a rise of four from 2017. The largest flock of the year was 35 at Compton Verney on July 22nd, with counts of 20-30 noted at: Astley, Bedworth Woodlands, Brandon, Combrook, Coughton Fields, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Hartshill, Kingsbury WP, Lighthorne Quarry, Maxstoke, Morton Bagot, Saxon Mill - Warwick and Shustoke Res. Worcs Westwood Pool had 15 on January 1st whilst Stanford on Teme had 17 on that date and 15 on March 4th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 15 on March 22nd and 19 on May 31st. Upton Warren Moors had 29 in two family feeding groups on May 29th with 30 here on June 7th and Gwen Finch NR had a mobile flock of 31 on July 10th. Upton Warren also had counts of 30 on August 31st, 40 on September 3rd, 18 on October 20th and 25 on November 20th. Wild Goose NR had 15 on September 13th and 16 on October 25th. In November, Beckford NR had 24 on the 14th, Wilden Marsh had 14 on the 20th and there were 15 at Park Plantation on the 25th. Wyre Forest - Dowles Brook had 17 on December 27th. Staffs The highest site counts were 26 at Hednesford Hills and 30 at Middleton Lakes in January, 27 at Blithfield in February, 40 at River Sow Meadows - Baswich in March, 26 at Stoneydelph in May and 26 at Doxey Marshes in August. W Mid This species was recorded at 166 locations with 52 of these holding birds during the breeding season. At Marsh Lane NR there were between five and seven pairs noted with at least three pairs successfully raising young. Elsewhere, breeding information was sparse with only Berkswell, Lea Village, Bournville Lane Park, Chelmsley Wood and Marston Green reporting successful breeding. Notable counts all in the first and final quarters were received as follows: Buckpool and Foots Hole NR (18), Coombeswood Wedge (18) Queslett NR (16), Sandwell Valley (21) and Smestow Valley LNR (15).

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent, though declining, summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the region. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 21st (82) to August 24th (69) 8-year average: April 15th (6 days earlier) to August 3rd (21 days earlier) First arrival: April 15th; Wyre Forest (Worcs) Last departure: July 30th; Wyre Forest (Worcs)

Warks There were two acceptable records. The first was at Bedworth Woodlands on April 21st RAW, and the second was singing early in the morning on May 22nd at Ladywalk NR per SLC, SFr. Worcs The first reported Wood Warbler of the year arrived into the Wyre Forest on April 15th. Singing birds were in the North Moors plantation at Upton Warren on April 21st and in Happy Valley Malvern on June 13th. A pair bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum fledging five young on June 28th from a clutch of six. Survey work in the Wyre Forest found a minimum of 14 singing males and were recorded regularly at this location throughout the summer period. The final record was received on July 30th, however presumably birds were still present beyond this date.

159 Staffs Year 2006 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Records 35 28 28 30 33 27 36 34 39 30 38 24 26 Sites 13 14 11 10 14 11 12 12 14 10 17 15 13 Breeding Sites 10 10-12 9 9 10 7-9 9 9 12 8 13 10 11

The first arrivals were on April 20th at Elkstone and 21st at Hawksmoor. The only other passage bird was at Westport Lake on 24th. Territorial birds were at Biddulph Grange CP, Cannock Chase (five), Consall East, Consall Wood, Coombes Valley, Dimmingsdale (two), Hawksmoor (two+) and Trentham Gardens. There were no autumn migrants this year. W Mid A single record of a bird seen in the vicinity of Powell’s Pool - Sutton Park NNR on April 21st SDa. Wood Warbler, Bedworth, Richard Walker

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Rare migrant (9/10). Warks For the second year in a row one made a brief appearance at Brandon, near East Marsh Hide. It was first found on the afternoon of October 14th, when it was seen by several observers SCN, and then heard calling at roughly the same location on 16th RWSK. The second of the year was in willow trees at Napton Marina along the on 29th, having probably first been heard on 26th KYa. W Mid A bird was reported at Park Lime Pits on October 26th MPi. with another seen at Quarry Bank on 31st Birdguides

Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus Very rare vagrant (3/10). Warks A pre-Christmas cracker, and a county first, one was found on December 23rd at Kingsbury WP in a stretch of willow scrub and reedbed along the River Tame RAW, SMH et al. It remained into 2019, and although typically elusive and often only giving away its presence by its call, it did show well for those who were prepared to be patient. It was the second new warbler to be added to the county list this decade, following Hume’s Warbler in 2014.

Dusky Warbler, Kingsbury WP, Ian Bollen

160 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One winter record. Amber-listed

Long-term average: March 27th (84) to October 8th (84) 8-year average: March 20th (7 days earlier) to October 10th (2 days later) First arrival: March 15th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs) Last departure: October 6th; Brandon (Warks)

Warks Another poor year. Counts of breeding territories included: Abbots Salford (six), Bedworth Woodlands (eight), Brandon (10, cf. 25 in 2017), Fenny Compton Tunnels (14), Middleton Lakes (17, cf. 22 in 2017) and Wormleighton Res (about 10). The first of the year was at Ladywalk NR on April 1st, and although seven were counted there on April 27th they were all thought to be migrants, with no suggestion of any staying on to breed. At Wormleighton Res, a male sang jumbled notes from both Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff, holding territory from April 17th–20th JJB. On return passage, the only decent count was 20 at Wormleighton Res on August 13th, and in September there was a high of six at Saxon Mill - Warwick on 16th. The last of the year were at Fenny Compton STW on October 3rd and Brandon on 6th. Worcs Reported as increasingly scarce in the county GHP, with specific mention of the south RAP. Conversely, said to be doing well in Malvern Hills (north) RMa. Numbers of breeding birds at the start of the season can be clouded by the presence of migrants; the best totals from mid-April through to mid-June were as follows: five at Oakley Pool and ten at Swinyard Hill on April 18th (similar numbers were at this latter locality throughout the period) and five at Penorchard NR on 21st. In May, presumed permanent territories were noted at Dowles Brook (ten), Hipton Hill Orchard (eight), John Bennett NR (four), Longdon Marsh (14), Lower Moor (six), Throckmorton Outer lagoons (seven) and Wyre Forest (15 in Worcs section). Lower numbers, typically ones and twos were present at a further 44 sites. The first migrants (singles unless noted) appeared at Arrow Valley Lake on March 30th, Upton Warren on April 3rd and on 4th, Burlish Top (two), Grimley and Westwood Pool (two). There were records at five sites on 5th including three at Pershore - Avon Meadows. Thereafter, daily records of generally singles but nine at Blackstone and five at Upton Warren on 8th. There were ten singing males at Upton Warren across the reserve on April 14th. The autumn passage was disappointing, mostly involving between one and three. Final records came from Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on September 8th, Upton Warren on 11th, John Bennett NR on 12th and Wildgoose NR (two) on 13th. Mixed-singing (with Chiffchaff) individuals were noted at Trench Wood on April 15th and 19th, Castlemorton Common on May 3rd and Upton Warren on 21st. Rather more unusual was one with song containing some Cetti’s Warbler notes at Ripple Pits on May 7th and June 10th AWa. Staffs The first birds of the spring were at Doxey Marshes on March 15th and 16th with a general influx from April 3rd onwards. During the breeding season the best sites were Back Forest (17), Berry Hill (13 territories cf. 17, 14, 17, 14, 16, 18 and 21 in the previous seven years), Cannock Chase - Brocton Coppice (16), Cannock Chase - Oldacre Valley (15), Coombes Valley (12, 17 and 12 in previous two years), Hanchurch Woods (23), Hednesford Hills (14), Kingswood Bank (11, 18 last year), Maer Hills (19, 23 last year), Middleton Lakes (12, 17 last year) and Park Hall CP (15). In August, 16 were at Belvide Res on 11th and 10 at Branston GP on 16th. Records were regular through to mid-September, with the last of the year at Cannock Chase - Oldacre Valley and Doxey Marshes on 14th. W Mid The decline of the species appears to be continuing with reports coming from 45 locations of which 20 were during the breeding season (cf. 55 in 2017). At Marsh Lane NR, eight singing males were located but by mid-May this had dropped to only two regular birds, one of which was seen carrying food. Elsewhere, the only sites reporting breeding or probable breeding were Clayhanger Marsh, Merecroft Pool LNR and Sandwell Valley, one can only hope this is an underestimate. The first spring migrant was recorded at Sandwell Valley on March

161 28th with no further significant counts until 30 were seen in Sutton Park NNR on April 28th and 32 on May 5th. In autumn, the only notable counts were again from Sutton Park NNR, with 35 on July 28th and 25 on August 28th.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Green-listed Warks In the first winter period birds were reported from around 13 sites, with highs of 10 at Hartshill STW on January 12th-13th and 12 at the Edison Road outflow at on February 11th. The first spring arrivals were two singing males at Brandon on March 12th, followed by one at Farnborough Park on 13th, the main arrival beginning on 25th. A bird singing a song close to Iberian Chiffchaff at Fenny Compton Tunnels on April 17th over the next few days gradually reverted to pure Common Chiffchaff song. It was thought possible that it had picked up the song in its winter quarters where Iberians are in the majority JJB. Counts of breeding territories included: Abbots Salford (12), Baddesley Clinton (eight), Braggington (seven in the Heart of England Forest), Brandon (12, cf. 22 in 2017), Bush Wood (seven in the northern half), Coldcomfort Wood (six), Crackley Wood (12), Earlswood Lakes (nine), Farnborough Park (five), Fenny Common Chiffchaff, Doxey Marshes, Dave Emley Compton Tunnels (10), Kingsbury Wood (six), Kinwarton (10), Middleton Lakes (22) and Saxon Mill, Warwick (23). In the post breeding season some of the best site maxima included 12 at Dairy Farm on August 22nd, 25 at Salford Priors GP on 26th, 15 at Abbots Salford on 27th and 31st, 13 at Lighthorne Quarry on September 2nd, 25 at Wormleighton Res on 6th, 12 by the in suburban Nuneaton on 12th, 12 at Napton Hill on 17th and 10 at Ladywalk NR on October 15th. In the last two months of the year wintering birds were noted at 12 sites, with a high of 12 at Kingsbury WP on December 24th. Worcs Breeding birds can be difficult to determine due to the presence of migrants and in April, 20 at Blackstone and nine at Croome on 8th, 14 at Upton Warren on 11th, ten at Swinyard Hill on 18th, seven at Arrow Valley Lake on 20th and 14 at Westwood Pool on 22nd were the best counts. There were smaller counts during May and again, no specific breeding information provided. In the Wyre Forest, 20 singing males on 12th was the best count and by this time probably represented breeding birds. Passage birds as opposed to wintering records possibly commenced with singles near Uffmoor Wood on March 11th, with further singles at Grimley on 12th and Arrow Valley Lake on 14th, with two there on 15th. Ones and twos were then recorded daily at many sites and the best subsequent record was seven at Woodbury Hill on 29th. In the autumn period, numbers were generally disappointing at between one and five but 20 at Upton Warren on August 22nd and 30 at British Camp on September 2nd were noteworthy. The final passage birds were possibly the four on the north side of Bredon Hill on October 16th and a single at John Bennett NR on 30th. Wintering individuals were recorded at around 25 sites with the best totals in the first period. The best counts all came from sewage treatment works with peak numbers between January 26th and February 25th. The best count in January came from

162 Lower Moor STW, where 15 on 26th (and the same number on February 4th). Also, on February 4th, ten at Lower Strensham STW and 25 at Upton-upon-Severn STW. At the latter site, 20 on 24th and the same day, ten at Hallow STW, with 15 at Kempsey STW on 25th. Elsewhere there were mainly singles at around 12 sites apart from five at Berwick Brook during January. The second winter period saw fewer records and lower numbers. There were birds at around ten sites, mainly involving ones and twos, the best counts came from Lower Moor STW with peaks of seven from November 1st to the year end and six at Camp Lane Pits on December 2nd. Staffs Birds were recorded all year – the few in the early months comprising three at Alrewas GP and Madeley STW and one at Middleton Lakes in January and in February, one at Audley WTW and three still at Alrewas GP. There was no clear indication of the first returning migrant, but it was certainly between March 4th and 10th. Breeding territories were recorded at 141 sites, many sites recording multiple singing birds, the best being at Maer Hills 19 (25 last year), Coombes Valley 18, Knypersley Res 17, Doxey Marshes 14 (14 last year), Churnet Valley NR 13, Middleton Lakes 13 (14 last year), Toadhole Bridge - Colwich 13, Berry Hill 12 and Hanchurch Woods 11. In August there were 10 at Ingestre on 11th, 18 ringed at Belvide Res on 18th, 13 at Knypersley Res on 25th and 20 ringed at Belvide Res on 29th. In September 18 were ringed at Belvide Res on 1st, 11 on 5th and 21 on 22nd with 20 at Chasewater Res on 8th and 18 at Doxey Marshes on 9th. In October, birds were present until 19th when three were seen at Branston GP then presumably the first wintering birds arrived on October 31st at Branston GP and Branston WP. Birds were present at six sites in November and 10 in December when four were at Alrewas GP, three at Endon STW and I54 and two at Belvide Res. W Mid Marsh Lane NR held 11 pairs which is in line with recent years; at least five of these pairs were successful. In addition, five more pairs were recorded in Siden Hill Wood and two more along the Old Road in the vicinity of Patrick Farm. Elsewhere, birds were recorded at 120 locations with 82 of these holding singing birds (cf. 91 in 2017). Breeding occurred or was strongly suspected at Barr Beacon (11 males), Elmdon Park (four males), Netherton Res, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley (ten males), Sutton Park NNR, Rushall Canal (Walsall) and Wychall Res. Spring migration started with a single at Tack Farm (Halesowen) on March 11th with just the odd bird seen until the last few days of March. Spring migration peaked in early April with the highest count being 24 in Sutton Park NNR on 28th. Autumn passage peaked during the last week of August with an impressive 100 birds counted in Sutton Park NNR on 29th. The only other notable counts were also from this location with 36 on September 15th and 24 on October 6th. Wintering birds in the second period were reported in December from Marsh Lane NR and Netherton Res. Of note a male with an aberrant song thought to include ingredients of Iberian Chiffchaff was noted at Edgbaston Pool and Winterbourne Gardens.

Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis Warks In the first winter period there were regular sightings along the River Tame between Hams Hall and Ladywalk ARD, per SFr. There Siberian Chiffchaff, Lower Moor, Andy Warr was a high of three at the Edison Road outflow at Hams Hall on February 11th, and one was still present there on March 21st. One was around the farm at Middleton Lakes on March 25th and 26th RSPB. At the end of the

163 year, two were at Ladywalk NR between December 5th and Christmas Day per SFr and one was also reported on the latter date at Kingsbury WP whilst searching for the Dusky Warbler JHar. Worcs A much better year and a return to near-normal after just one record last year. Five individuals were found at four sewage treatment works in the first winter period. The first was on January 7th at Lower Moor STW GHP, with two there from 14th to March 6th RAP et al and one from 7th–16th RAP et al. One was found at Upton-upon Severn STW on January 10th and presumably the same bird was then seen on 13th, 22nd and on February 4th and 25th AWa et al. In February, one was at Lower Strensham STW on 4th AWa and 8th SMW and another was seen at Hallow STW on five dates between 11th and 19th and presumably the same on 24th and 26th AWa et al. In the second period one was at Grimley Wagon Wheel Lane on November 26th BRS and again at Camp Lane Pits on December 2nd–4th BRS, AWa, LIs.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Fairly common to common, though declining summer resident. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 14th (82) to September 30th (76) 8-year average: April 5th (9 days earlier) to October 3rd (3 days later) First arrival: April 6th; Upton Warren (Worcs) Last departure: October 10th; Napton Res (Warks)

Warks Breeding territories were reported from around 26 sites, with at least three singing males noted at: Abbots Salford (six), Brandon (13), Kingsbury WP (three), Knightcote (three), Ladywalk NR (five), Middleton Lakes (26), Napton Res (six) and Stratford-upon-Avon Greenway (eight). The first of the year were at Coton Lakes on April 8th and Ladywalk NR on 9th, with birds becoming more numerous from 15th. For the first time, they did not breed at Salford Priors GP due to habitat destruction, where 10 territories were present as recently as 2016; at Brandon, the ringing group reported only average breeding success. On return passage birds at Dairy Farm on August 31st and Ansty Business Park on September 5th were both site firsts. The last of the year were at Cress Hill on September 21st and Napton Res on the late date of October 10th. Worcs Records came from a total of 18 sites with Grimley and Upton Warren accounting for a very Sedge Warbler, Doxey Marshes, Steve Edwards large majority. Confirmed breeding records came from Kemerton Lake NR (three), John Bennett NR (three), Longdon Marsh (two), Lower Moor (two) and Nafford Island (two). Otherwise, counts of presumed singing males of five or more came from: Pershore - Avon Wetland (11 in early-May), Eckington/Strensham Lock (six), Droitwich (five), Lower Strensham (seven on May 1st), and Upton Warren (ten on May 1st). Spring arrivals were daily after the first at Upton Warren on April 6th and there were four there by 11th and seven by 22nd. In autumn, records of mostly ones and twos had left by the end of August after which there were birds on only 12 dates at three sites. The final three were at Grimley and Ripple on September 30th and Grimley again on October 6th.

164 Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate Mere, Branston GP, Brinepit Bridge and Doxey Marshes and probably occurred at a further 15 sites. Doxey Marshes had 65 territories, 59 of which were considered successful (79, 61, 59, 66, 84, 85 and 79 territories in the previous seven years), Middleton Lakes held 35 territories (47, 36, 23 and 14 in the previous four years), Belvide Res 27 and Berry Hill 10 (14 last year). The first arrival was on April 7th at Chasewater Res, a week later than last year. Birds were recorded at scattered sites throughout the county other than on the north Moors. Ringing at Belvide Res produced 28 on July 14th and 18th, 32 on August 8th, 48 on 11th and 27 on 22nd. The last of the year were at Belvide Res and Doxey Marshes on September 9th and then one at Belvide Res on 22nd. W Mid Up to 14 birds were holding territory at Marsh Lane NR in May, with at least two of these breeding successfully. During the breeding season the species was noted at Blythe Valley Park, Clayhanger Marsh, Edgbaston Res, North Common - Pelsall, Sandwell Valley (five singing birds) and Sutton Park NNR. The earliest spring migrant was at Marsh Lane NR on April 7th, but it wasn’t until the third week of April that others were encountered. In autumn there were practically no records until the last, which came from Marsh Lane NR on September 1st. A bird controlled at Marsh Lane NR on May 4th had been ringed at Mondesir, Mortagne- sur-Gironde, France 271 days previously and had travelled 774km.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 22nd (78) to October 1st (72) 8-year average: April 9th (13 days earlier) to October 10th (9 days later) First arrival: April 7th; Kemerton Lake NR (Worcs) Last departure: October 7th; Salford Priors (Warks)

Warks About 42 breeding sites were notified, with the highest counts including: Abbots Salford (15), Alvecote Pools (five), Bermuda Balancing Lake (six), Brandon (c.45-50), Clifton Lakes (six), Kingsbury WP (10), Lighthorne Pools (seven), Middleton Lakes (45), Napton Res (12), Salford Priors GP (20), Stratford-upon-Avon Greenway (seven), Whittleford Park (12) and Wormleighton Res (12). Amongst the lesser sites holding small numbers were: Abbey Fields, Ansty Business Park, Bedworth Nook, Bidford Grange GC, Gaydon STW and Packington Park. As with Sedge Warbler, breeding success at Brandon was thought to be fairly average, with three singing there on April 15th the first of the spring. The general impression remains of a species doing well, and there are an increasing number of colonies even in fairly urbanised areas. Comfortably the best post- breeding count was 20 at Salford Priors GP on August 12th, whilst a migrant at Wormleighton STW on 27th was a site first. The last of the year was on the late date of October 7th at Salford Priors GP. Worcs Reduced numbers were reported at Upton Warren where 12 Reed Warbler, Doxey Marshes, Richard Rafe singing males were present on May 18th and 29th (2017:24). Elsewhere, the best counts were: Pershore - Avon Meadows (14 on May 10th and 16 on 31st), Eckington/Strensham Lock (26 – 2017:30), Gwen Finch NR (14 –

165 2017:16), Kemerton Lake NR (12 – 2017: 14), Pershore (20 at Avon Meadows) and Porters Mill/Hawford (12). Elsewhere, counts usually of five or less came from around 20 other sites. First arrivals were at Kemerton Lake NR on April 7th, Upton Warren on 10th and Grimley on 13th. Thereafter a daily arrival over the following days. In autumn, most birds had left by September 8th, with the final records at Grimley on 22nd, Upton Warren on 23rd and Kemerton Lake NR on 27th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at five sites and probably at 17 more. There were60 territories at Middleton Lakes (42 last year), 28 at Doxey Marshes (25 last year), 27 at Belvide Res, 20 at Aqualate Mere and 12 at River Sow Meadows (11 last year). The first bird of the year was at Westport Lake on April 8th followed by Belvide Res on 11th. The largest site counts came after breeding with the following daily ringing totals: at Aqualate Mere 25 on July 14th, 30 on 21st and in August 26 on 18th; at Belvide Res 21 on July 25th, 25 on August 18th and 33 on 22nd. Birds were recorded regularly until mid-September with the last of the year being six at Belvide Res on 22nd, one at Branston GP on 23rd and one at Belvide Res on 26th. W Mid During the breeding season birds were present at Berkswell (one male), Blythe Valley Park, Edgbaston Pool, Elmdon Park (three males, with one family party seen in July), Goscote Valley, Marsh Lane NR (21 pairs, slightly down on previous years), Minworth STW (three fledged young), Sandwell Valley (up to seven singing males) and Wychall Res. The first spring record was at Fens Pools LNR on April 20th. Over the next two days birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley but most sites had to wait until early-May before birds arrived. In autumn the latest record came from Marsh Lane NR on September 7th, with the only other earlier records coming from Elmdon Park and Sandwell Valley.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 17th (82) to August 31st (72) 8-year average: April 8th (9 days earlier) to September 8th (8 days later) First arrival: April 10th; Sandwell Valley (WMid) Last departure: August 18th; Belvide Res (Staffs), Lighthorne Quarry (Warks)

Warks Reeling birds (singles unless stated) were recorded at: Alvecote Pools, Brandon (five), Fenny Compton Hills, Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk NR, Lighthorne Quarry, Middleton Lakes (seven), MOD Kineton, Napton Res (two), Salford Priors GP, Stratford-upon-Avon Greenway, Warwick Racecourse and Wormleighton (two, by the Oxford Canal in the north of the parish and at the Res). Numbers were similar to 2017, and the record from Warwick Racecourse was thought to be only a second for the site RHo. Successful breeding was confirmed at Wormleighton, with a juvenile found near the Oxford Canal on July 21st. The first of the spring was reeling at Brandon on April 13th, and the last were two flushed from brambles by the observer’s dog at Lighthorne Quarry on August 18th. Worcs Reported from only ten sites this year (2017 – 15, 2016 – 13). All records are given. The first arrival was at Upton Warren Sailing Lake on April 11th, with two there, at The Moors and Flashes, the next day. One at Upton-upon-Severn on 14th was not noted subsequently. A series of records at Coney Meadow commenced on 18th, with birds on five dates until April 27th and on May 3rd, 4th, 20th and 28th. Notable there were three on April 24th and two on 27th. One was at Wood Norton on April 18th and 19th, with two there on 20th. One was at Longdon Marsh on 19th and on 20th, birds were found at Castlemorton Common (two, with one on 22nd) and Tapenhall. In May, a pair were at Hipton Hill Orchard on 3rd and 15th and a single was at Broadway on 20th. Finally, and the last of the year was a single at North Moors, Upton Warren on six dates from June 6th – 12th.

166 Staffs Year 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 37 44-45 29 82 93+ 107 46 52 40-41 53-55 66 72 53

Breeding was confirmed at Cuckoo Bank and Doxey Marshes with probable/possible breeding recorded at a further 12 sites was a significant drop from last years’ total of 27 sites. This large drop is also reflected in the total number of reeling birds tabulated above. Maximum territories recorded were 15 at Cuckoo Bank (15 last year), eight at Middleton Lakes (11 last year), six at Doxey Marshes and four at Berry Hill (11 last year). The first arrival was at Kinver Edge on April 14th with two at Berry Hill and Chasewater Res and one at Wetley Moor on 15th. Birds were fairly regular until early July after which there were fewer records, the last of which were singles at Radial Park on August 17th and Belvide Res on 18th. W Mid A long-staying bird at Marsh Lane NR attracted a mate and may have bred, this was the only possible breeding record. The first of the year was recorded at Sandwell Valley on April 10th, with another noted at the NEC Lake on 19th. The only other records came from Marsh Lane NR where a bird was heard reeling in the reed bed on 23rd, with another near the mobile phone mast on 29th. The reed bed bird was heard again on May 3rd when it was caught and ringed. It or another was heard nearby on June 24th.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Green- listed Warks Wintering birds in the first winter period were noted at around 18 sites, withtwo each at Halford, Kenilworth, , Tiddington, Welford-on-Avon and Whittleford Park. Singles were at: Bidford-on-Avon, Coughton Fields, Curdworth, Dunnington, Heathcote (Warwick), Ladywalk NR, Milverton (Leamington Spa), Moreton Morrell, Priors Marston, Middleton Lakes, Saxon Mill (Warwick) and Whitnash. In the breeding season, sites with six or more singing males included: Abbey Fields (six), Abbots Salford (12), Alvecote Pools (10), Braggington (six in the Heart of England Forest), Brandon (22), Bush Wood (seven in the northern half), Cress Hill (six), Farnborough Park (nine), Fenny Compton Tunnels (14), Ladywalk NR (15-20), Lighthorne Quarry (six) Middleton Lakes (29), Morton Bagot (seven), Salford Priors GP (nine), Saxon Mill, Warwick (25) and Whittleford Park (eight). Breeding success at Brandon was thought to be only average, with fewer juveniles reported than in 2017. The highest post breeding counts were 15 at Stockton Cutting on September 1st, 20 at Wormleighton Res on 3rd and a late fall of 13 at Fenny Compton STW on October 3rd. In the final two months of the year apparent wintering birds were recorded at: Bidford-on-Avon, Brandon, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Ladywalk NR, Long Itchington, Middle Spernall and Moreton Morrell. Worcs Breeding counts were highest between mid-April and the end of May and came from widespread sites. The best counts were: Arrow Valley Lake (ten), Pershore - Avon Meadows (12), Burlish Top (13), Croome Park (ten), Swinyard Hill (nine), Upper Bittell/Alvechurch (11 along the canal), Westwood Pool (13), Weyman’s Wood (eight), Wood Street (12) and Wyre Forest (15 in Worcs section). Two pairs were successful at Bodenham Arboretum fledging four young on June 22nd from a clutch of four and four young on the 26th from a clutch of five. Wintering birds were more frequently recorded, with birds at 22 sites in the first period and 19 in the second (2017: 15 in each period). The best site this year and last was Lower Moor with at least six in both periods, the same as last year. Elsewhere, five were at both Martley on December 4th and at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 13th. Passage migrants in spring began to appear around April 7th with a surge of 38 records until 10th. Thereafter, records were regular in very small numbers merging into presumed breeding counts. Eighteen at Blackstone on April 8th and 15 at Upton Warren on 11th may have included passage and breeding birds. In autumn, widespread reports of less than four/five meant an unimpressive passage. The final migrant

167 was likely to be one at Upton Warren on October 7th which was the last before winter records commenced almost three weeks later. Staffs During the first winter period (January – early March), one or two birds were recorded at eight sites (6, 7, 13, 7, 11, 15, 10, 16, 19, 14 in the previous ten years). Spring migrants began to appear mid-March with one at Pendeford Mill on 19th and at Belvide Res on 20th the likely first arrivals, with widespread arrivals from April 4th onwards. Significant breeding sites were at the following locations: Berry Hill (12 territories), Churnet Valley NR (16), Cannock Chase (52+), Coombes Valley (16), Doxey Marshes (20), Kingswood Bank (13), Knypersley Res (17), Middleton Lakes (22) and Tittesworth Res (20). The best of the ringing counts at Belvide Res were 22 on July 14th, 60 at August 29th and 33 on September 1st and 22nd. The last summering bird was probably at Belvide Res on October 7th with no birds recorded until 20th when presumably the first wintering bird arrived at Branston GP. During the second winter period birds were recorded at just eight sites (14 last year). W Mid There were records from 136 sites of which 65 were during the breeding season (cf. 91 in 2017). At Marsh Lane NR, 12 pairs were recorded on the reserve with a further nine pairs close-by. Elsewhere, there was little in the way of breeding information, but that was probably due to under-recording rather than anything sinister. During the first winter period a male and female were present in a garden at Ebrington Avenue, Solihull from January 2nd to March 26th. There were other sightings on single dates at a further 16 locations, the majority of these were visiting garden feeders. The earliest arrival was Sandwell Valley on April 3rd, but it was mid- month before birds arrived in earnest. The largest spring count was 40+ in Sutton Park NNR on May 29th. Autumn passage picked up towards the end of August and continued throughout September, with the last bird seen at Sedgley Beacon on October 3rd. Some high counts during the passage included 30 at Sutton Park NNR on August 20th (and on 28th) and 27 at Sedgley Beacon on 29th. The second winter period saw birds recorded at eight suburban gardens.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Fairly common to common summer resident. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 20th (81) to September 16th (80) 8-year average: April 13th (7 days earlier) to September 20th (4 days later) First arrival: April 15th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs) Last departure: September 17th; Napton Hill (Warks)

Warks A poor year with counts of three or more singing males restricted to: Brandon (eight), Fenny Compton Tunnels (three), Kenilworth (three in farmland west of the Castle), Ladywalk NR (three), Middleton Lakes (eight), Ryton Pools CP (six), Wolston GP (three) and Wormleighton Res (three). Records came from 32 sites, with the first of the year at Fenny Compton Tunnels on April 20th and the last at Napton Hill on September 17th. Worcs Reported to be still scarce in the south of the county RAP. Birds in the breeding season were noted at around 23 sites but many were of one-day singles with no follow up records. This is a 41% drop from the 39 total sites in 2017. The best counts came from: Castlemorton Common (two), Eyemore Wood (two), Park Plantation (four), Trench Wood (four), Upton Warren (one at Hen Pool and one at The Moors), Weyman’s Wood (four) and Wyre Forest (eight in Worcs section). Two pairs successfully bred at Bodenham Arboretum fledging five and four young respectively. The first visitor in spring appeared at Dowles Brook on April 18th, with no further records until one at Upton Warren on 27th, after which there were daily arrivals. Return passage was poorly recorded and involved small numbers, the final few were singles at Lower Moor on September 8th and at Martley Nubbins on the 13th. Staffs The first arrivals were at Doxey Marshes on April 15th and 18th with a general influx from 21st onwards. Breeding was only confirmed Belvide Res this year. The highest territory

168 counts were 20+ at Cannock Chase, nine at Maer Hills and six at Cheddleton/Consall Valley and Middleton Lakes. 14 birds were ringed at Belvide Res on August 11th, the only autumn double-figure count. Birds were recorded fairly regularly through August with the last being in September at Belvide Res on 5th and 9th. W Mid There were two pairs present at Marsh Lane NR in early- May but there was no substantive proof of breeding. Elsewhere, the species was present during the breeding season at Berkswell, Castle Garden Warbler, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot Hills, Chadwick End, Edgbaston Pool, Kingfisher CP, Lutley Wedge, Mercote Mill, Merecroft Pool LNR, Meriden Shafts, Netherton Res, Stourbridge, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley (four singing birds), Sutton Park NNR and Wychall Res. Sutton Park NNR saw up to eight singing birds, most other sites only saw single singing males. In total there were only 49 entries received via BirdTrack! The first spring arrival was seen at Sandwell Valley on April 19th, there were three further April records and it was the first week of May before the majority of sites saw any birds. Autumn passage was very poor with only two records of three birds in August, all from Sutton Park NNR with the last being a single on 20th.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Two winter records. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 20th (82) to September 25th (82) 8-year average: April 10th (10 days earlier) to October 2nd (7 days later) First arrival: April 11th; Napton Hill (Warks) Last departure: October 4th; Fenny Compton (Warks)

Warks In the south of the county breeding territory counts included: Abbots Salford (five), Baddesley Clinton (four), Braggington (eight in the Heart of England Forest), Fenny Compton (six), Knightcote (three), Lighthorne Quarry (four), Napton Res (three in area), (three), Priors Hardwick (seven), Salford Priors GP (five) and Wormleighton (eight). Eight were also singing at Morton Bagot on April 22nd. Further north, the highest counts were three at Bedworth Woodlands and Dunsmore Heath. The first in spring was singing at Napton Res on April 11th, with the main arrival from around 20th–21st. In the post-breeding season, the highest numbers were six, at Priors Hardwick on August 11th, Wormleighton Res on 13th and Lighthorne Quarry on September 2nd. The last of the year was a juvenile at Fenny Compton on October 4th. Worcs Reported to be doing well in the south of the county RAP. Records, presumably of singing males, came from around 40 sites (2016 and 2017: 49). As with the previous species many records were one-off sightings with no follow up site records. Counts of three or more came from: John Bennett NR (four), Longdon Marsh (six), Lower Moor (three), Pershore - Avon Meadows (three), Throckmorton Lagoon (three) and Upton Warren (four). Spring passage commenced with singles at Ryall Pits and Upton Warren on April 14th and Wick Wetland on 17th. There was a large arrival from 19th – 22nd with 24 records. Autumn passage was poor

169 with only four recorded in September. Singles at Wildgoose NR on 13th and Lower Moor on 26th were the final two records. Staffs Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Territories 45 48 60 43 36 55 48 42 41 60 60 90

The first arrivals were on April 14th at Blithbury and Branston GP with a general arrival from 15th onwards. Found across much of the county but absent from the north Moors. It is pleasing to note a record number of singing / territorial birds this year. The sites with the best territory counts were seven at Middleton Lakes, six at Branston GP and four at Berry Hill and Cuckoo Bank. Breeding was confirmed at Branston GP, Radial Park and River Sow Meadows - Baswich. Birds were regular through to September 20th and the last of the year were at Aston Lodge Park and Belvide Res on September 22nd and Doxey Marshes on October 3rd. W Mid There were five singing birds at Marsh Lane NR on April 22nd with at least one pair breeding successfully. Elsewhere, birds were present during the breeding season at Bartley Res, Berkswell, Blythe Valley Park, Castle Hills, Clayhanger, Fens Pools LNR, Hockley Heath, Kingfisher CP, Lutley Wedge, Mercote Mill, Meriden, Netherton Res, Parkes Hall Res, North Common (Pelsall), Sandwell Valley (five singing males), Sedgley Beacon, Shirley, Sutton Park NNR, Old GC (Walsall) and Rushall Canal (Walsall). There were only 63 records via BirdTrack, the first of which was at North Common (Pelsall) on April 17th. Passage peaked at the end of April into early-May. Autumn passage was confined to Netherton Res, Sedgley Beacon and Sutton Park NNR with the latest record there, on September 5th.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common to abundant summer resident. Green-listed

Long-term average: April 14th (84) to September 30th (84) 8-year average: April 7th (7 days earlier) to October 5th (5 days later) First arrival: April 7th; Belvide Res (Staffs) Last departure: September 23rd; Belvide Res (Staffs), Upton Warren (Worcs)

Warks It was an excellent breeding season in parts of the south-east, with high numbers on farmland, but lower counts than usual from some regularly monitored scrubland sites. The highest number logged from this part of the county was at least 20 pairs in an area of about 1km2 on Mill Hill, Fenny Compton. In some of the parishes to the south west of Stratford-upon- Avon, numbers were thought to be slightly down on 2017, and in the far south 22 pairs bred at Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton (cf. 31 in 2017). At Brandon, a maximum of 15 singing males in early May continued the gradual declining trend of recent years. The only count of note from the north was 24 territories at Middleton Lakes (cf. 17 in 2017). The first of the year was at Warwick Racecourse on April 15th, and the last at Coleman’s Hill on September 21st. Worcs Counts of singing males came from many sites. Those above five are all given and where comparative 2017 data is available (four sites), numbers were down by between 25% and 37%, with an average of 31%. The full list is as follows: Pershore - Avon Meadows (eight), Burlish Top (15), Devil’s Spittleful (eight), Hipton Hill Orchard (ten - 2017:16), John Bennett NR (eight - 2017: 12), Longdon Marsh (ten), Lower Broadheath (six), Lower Strensham (six), (12), Perry Wood (seven), Swinyard Hill (seven), Throckmorton Outer Lagoons (ten – 2017: 14) and Wick River Meadows (six – 2017: eight). The first spring migrants were at Upton Warren on April 11th, Throckmorton Outer Lagoons on 12th, Ryall Pits on 14th and Tardebigge Res on 15th. The main arrival commenced around 28th. The autumn passage saw only small numbers, the best count was eight at Avon Valley Community Wetland on August 23rd. Most birds had left by the first week in September and there were just five records after 8th, the final two being on 20th at Wildgoose NR and on 23rd at Upton Warren.

170 Staffs Breeding was confirmed or suspected at 70 sites, (72 last year). Significant breeding season territories were at Berry Hill (28 territories), I54 (10+), Middleton Lakes (25) and Radial Park (10). The first bird was on April 7th at Belvide Res with two there and one at Chasewater Res the next day. The last records of the year came in September from Berry Hill with three on 16th and Belvide Res with one on 23rd. W Mid Breeding numbers were down on recent years at Marsh Lane NR with two pairs successfully fledging young, with one pair double-brooding. The species was recorded at 45 sites during the breeding season (cf. 51 in 2017) with breeding confirmed at Bartley Res, Berkswell, Castle Hills, Mercote Mill, Sandwell Valley (eight singing males) and Sutton Park NNR. The first spring arrival was at Sandwell Valley on April 9th, then small numbers were encountered until the main arrival occurred during the first week of May. The highest spring count was 22+ at Sutton Park NNR on May 5th. Return passage peaked towards the end of August, when 20 were in Sutton Park NNR on 20th and there were only three September records, the final being one at Coundon Wedge on 5th.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. Green-listed Warks The bird found at Hartshill STW in December 2017 was recorded on a number of days in January, and was last seen on 20th RWA. One discovered in the Staffs part of Middleton Lakes on Boxing Day 2017 was observed in the Warks section of the reserve on a number of days between January 23rd and February 24th many observers. The only other record was a female at the favoured location of the Edison Road outflow at Hams Hall on February 7th SLC. None were seen in the Earlswood Lakes area, the first blank year there since 2013. Worcs There was a welcome increase in reports in the county in 2018. One was at Bewdley Jubilee Gardens on January 3rd JLi with singing birds at Bredon Hill on April 9th RSc and also on May 12th RAP, GHP. At least one was singing at Woodbury Hill in May and June GHP and at Broadway Wood on June 16th GHP. In November, a male was caught and ringed at Castlemorton Common on the 3rd PHol. Staffs The Middleton Lakes bird from December 26th last year was re-found on January 5th JFi, PFi and remained there until March 10th. A territorial bird on Cannock Chase was located at the same site as last year suggesting breeding was attempted although this was not proven. W Mid It was a good year for the species opening with one at Clayhanger Marsh on January 12th Birdguides. Last year’s Sandwell Valley individual remained until February 23rd, with possibly a second bird on 3rd many observers. The spring concluded with a bird at Edgbaston Res on March 4th Birdguides. This was followed in the autumn by another in Dartmouth Park (Sandwell Valley) on September 8th, with this bird or another on October 27th Birdguides.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Very common resident and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks Very few breeding counts were received, making it difficult to determine the impact of the cold and snowy weather at the end of February. Nonetheless, it was reported to be common in the village of Maxstoke, and around three pairs at Brandon and four territories at Middleton Lakes was comparable with 2017. The only significant count was 40 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on December 22nd, double the next highest of 20 at Farnborough Park earlier in the month on 3rd. Other counts of 10 or more were made only at Bentley Park Wood, Hartshill, Kenilworth, Kingsbury WP, Middleton Lakes and Salford Priors GP. Worcs Numerous pairs bred in woods on the lower/mid slopes of Bredon Hill. A juvenile was at Upton Warren on May 30th with a family party here on July 22nd and young were calling from a nest at Stanford on Teme on the 25th. There were nine at Tenbury Wells STW

171 on February 7th and six in a Wyre Forest square on May 12th. Park Plantation had seven on November 25th with the same number at Arrow Lake on December 24th. Staffs Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Sites with territories 34 33 46 38 33 59 60 75 40

Birds were recorded all year throughout the county, but with a definite lull in records in the summer. Numbers were well down on last year with half the number of sites holding territories and 14 records of six or more birds compared with 30 last year. The only double-figure counts were 15 at I54 on February 2nd, ten at Middleton Lakes on January 10th, Alrewas GP and Bilbrook on February 17th and Branston GP on September 29th. Breeding was confirmed at just two sites, Keele University and West End - Stoke. Goldcrest, Hillers Farm, Claire Workman W Mid There were eight pairs at Marsh Lane NR plus a further five pairs at Siden Hill Wood. Birds were present during the breeding season at 58 sites in total (cf. 54 in 2017). Birds were also recorded at a further 58 sites (53 in 2017) at other times of the year. High counts included seven at Marsh Lane NR on January 17th, ten at West Park (Wolverhampton) on February 12th, and ten at Stourbridge and 20 in Sandwell Valley on October 28th.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Green-listed Warks Breeding territory counts were made as per normal at Brandon (22), Ladywalk NR (24) and Middleton Lakes (36). Other high counts of individuals during the spring and summer months were made at: Barcheston (22), Coldcomfort Wood (14), Coughton Fields (17), Dunsmore Heath (15), Earlswood Lakes (19), Harborough Magna (19), Idlicote (14) and Kinwarton (21). Although some of these were a reduction on 2017, it seems this species managed to overcome the worst effects of the cold and snowy weather at the end of February without any significant impact on its numbers. Worcs Three nests at Bodenham Arboretum with clutches of seven, six and five successfully fledged four, five and four young respectively. A pair was feeding young in a nest at Wren, Trentham Gardens, Steve Edwards

172 Spetchley Park Gardens on June 15th. The highest number reported was for 22 at Belbroughton on April 22nd. Other double-figure counts came from Bittell Reservoirs, Chase Farm, Malvern - Wood Street, Pershore - Avon Meadows and Wilden Marsh. On November 14th, five flew to roost in Mistletoe at Bow Brook. Staffs Breeding territories included 14 at Alrewas, 14 at Cannock Chase - Castle Ring, 32 at Coombes Valley, 27 at Churnet Valley NR, 22 at Danebridge, 28 at Doxey Marshes and 23 at Middleton Lakes W Mid This species was recorded from at least 162 locations, the majority of which were during the breeding season, so it is safe to say this familiar species is holding its own. At Marsh Lane NR, 22 pairs were recorded which is broadly similar to recent years. Elsewhere, little data was forthcoming regarding breeding attempts, but I doubt there is much to worry about. Counts of 20 and above were received from Allesley Park (31), Amblecote (20) and Nailcote Hall (27).

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common to common resident. Green-listed Warks Counts of breeding pairs included: Brandon (at least three), Bush Wood (four in the northern half), Compton Verney (five), Farnborough Park (three), Honington (two), Kingsbury Wood (three), Ladbroke (three), Ladywalk NR (two or three), Mockley Wood (five), Monks Kirby (five in Cotton’s and Hobley’s Furzes), Warwick Castle Grounds (four) and Wormleighton (three in the parish). The largest counts included a party of 10 at Farnborough Park on September 5th and 12 around the lakes at Compton Verney on December 31st. Worcs Sightings were made at Upton Warren on 16 dates including a juvenile on June 10th. A Wyre Forest grid square had eight on February 4th with six pairs at Dowles Brook on June 7th. Hurcutt had four on February 4th as did Ipsley Alders on the 12th and on April 10th. Four were also at Walton Hill on April 5th and at Swinyard Hill on the 6th Eurasian Nuthatch, Rudyard Lake, Steve Seal and on the 18th with five at Bittell Reservoirs on the 20th. There was a clutch of seven at Bodenham Arboretum which all successfully fledged. Breeding pairs were also confirmed at Bow Wood (one pair), Bredon Hill (eight+ pairs), Chase End Wood (two+ pairs), Croome Park (three+ pairs), Grafton Wood (two+ pairs), Kemerton Lake NR (three+ pairs), Old Yew Hill Wood (three+ pairs), Tiddesley Wood (two+ pairs), Trench Wood (two+ pairs) and Wood Norton (two+ pairs). Four were reported from Wythall Park on August 9th, from Hagley Hall on September 26th and from Bittell Reservoirs on September 10th and November 5th. Also in November, five were reported from Hurcutt on the 2nd and from Temple Dingle on the 8th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Coombes Valley, Kingswood Bank, River Sow Meadows, Toadhole Bridge – Colwich and Wolseley Bridge, with breeding season sightings from many other sites. The highest site counts were 17 at Kingswood Bank on December 22nd and eight at Middleton Lakes on September 1st. W Mid This year saw 764 entries via BirdTrack with birds observed at 121 locations, many of which were in suburban gardens. Overall, birds were present during the breeding season at 50 locations with two to three pairs at Harborne NR, where at least one pair were seen with young. Highest counts of six came from Park, Sandwell Valley and Seth Somers Park.

173 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Green-listed Warks Under recorded throughout the year, with breeding pairs and successful nesting restricted to just 14 sites. Counts of more than one pair were limited to: Brandon (several), Bush Wood (three in the northern half), Cawston Woods (five), Farnborough Park (five), Ladywalk NR (probably three), Middleton Lakes (two), Monks Kirby (eight in Cotton’s and Hobley’s Furzes) and Wormleighton (at least 11 in the parish). Outside this period, four at Hampton Wood on January 18th, Whitacre Heath NR on February 13th and on three dates at Brandon were the highest counts. Worcs Hell Hole had ten on January 1st with four at Stanford on the same date and five here on March 4th. Engine Coppice had six on February 16th, Bittell Reservoirs had four on March 24th with three at Woodbury Hill on the 25th and Weymans Wood had three on April 26th. A Wyre Forest square had six on March 16th, Five on April 18th and June 25th with four at Dowles Brook on July 6th. Five young successfully fledged from a clutch of six at Bodenham Arboretum. Breeding pairs were also confirmed at Bow Wood (one pair), Chase End Hill Wood (two+ pairs), Croome Park (three+ pairs), Defford Porters Ashold (one pair), Eckington Meadows (one pair), Grafton Wood (three+ pairs), Kemerton Lake NR (three+ pairs), Lower Moor (two plus pairs), Old Yew Hill Wood (four+ pairs), Tiddesley Wood (three+ pairs), Trench Wood (four+ pairs) and Wick river meadows (two+ pairs). An adult with two juveniles was at Netherton Lane on July 6th. Sightings of three birds also came from Burlish Top, Chaddesley Wood and Park Plantation whilst Bittell Reservoirs had four on December 1st. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Blithfield Res, Cannock Chase - Brocton Coppice, Doxey Marshes, Hanchurch Woods, Keele University and Toadhole Bridge - Colwich, with many more probable territories. The maximum non-breeding counts were four at Cannock Chase - Castle Ring in March, Doxey Marshes during the second half of the year and Kingwood Bank in December. W Mid Up to four pairs were present at Marsh Lane NR and the immediate vicinity, with two juveniles seen in July, a slight reduction from previous years. Elsewhere, birds were recorded at 44 sites, with 18 sites noting birds during the breeding season (cf. 22 in 2017), which is more or less in line with recent years. There were no other significant counts.

Rose-coloured Starling Pastor roseus Very rare vagrant (1/10). Warks An adult frequented a garden feeder in the Overslade area of Rugby on the morning of May 31st MFe. It occurred during a nationwide influx, mainly to coastal areas, and was the fourth for the county following one at Exhall (nr Coventry) in June 2001 and two 19th century records.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Red-listed Warks Typically, very little in the way of breeding data was received, but six nests on the four HLS farms, with three each at Aylesmore Farm and Harrow Hill Farm was a rise from only two pairs in 2017. During the first winter period, flocks of over 100 were noted fairly widely, the highest 900 at Fenny Compton on January 1st and 2nd, 500 roosting at Silt Pool, Middleton Lakes on the evening of 31st, 1,400 on Mill Hill - Fenny Compton on March 9th, 450 at Lower Tysoe on 10th, 1,000 leaving a roost at Northend just after dawn on 18th and a flock of 600 migrants grounded by rain at Wormleighton Res on April 2nd. In the immediate post-breeding season, 100 were at Braggington on May 31st and 120, most of which were juveniles, were on a sports

174 field at Fenny Compton on June 2nd. From September onwards flocks of at least 100 started to become fairly widespread. Although there were no particularly large counts, the biggest was 400 on ploughland at Fenny Compton on December 29th. Other flocks of at least 200 were reported at Barcheston, Dairy Farm, Knightcote, Ladywalk NR, Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP, , Watchbury (Barford), Welford-on-Avon and Wishaw. The highest autumn visible migration count at Coleman’s Hill was 319 on the morning of October 29th. An Common Starling, Little Stoke, Dave Emley almost completely white bird was at Salford Priors GP on December 11th. Worcs The highest county number roosted at Kemerton Lake NR with 16,500 during October and up to 25,000 in November and December. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 170 on January 4th and 120 on March 29th. Redditch had 100 at Batchley on January 7th and 2,500 in the town centre roost on the 22nd with 100 at Oakenshaw on February 10th and 250 at the Abbey GC on the 16th. There were 95 feeding around floodwater at Wood Norton river meadows on January 11th. Aston Somerville had 300 on January 18th on which date there were 100 on wires at Bricklehampton Hall Farm. Lower Moor river meadows had 950 in a pre-roost on January 22nd. At Longdon Marsh, 5,000 were feeding on flooded grassland on January 23rd with 1,500 on the 27th, 1600 on the 29th and 750 on February 2nd. Upton Warren Flashes had 220 on March 17th and 350 on the 18th. In the summer, there were 400 at Camp Lane Pits on July 5th with 193 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 12th and 500 at Upton Warren Moors on August 26th. In the autumn, Upton Warren also had counts of 200 on September 4th, 220 on the 8th, 230 on October 28th, 500 on November 6th and 350 on the 20th. There were 150 at Camp Lane Pits on October 25th with 1,500 here on November 5th on which date Aston Somerville had 100. Redditch Oakenshaw had 225 on November 3rd and 140 on the 6th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 137 on November 15th and 102 on December 27th whilst Wagon Wheel Lane Pits had 200 on the 4th. Staffs In January, up to 60,000 birds roosted at Belvide Res, 30,000 at Branston GP and 5,000 at Leek but these numbers were not present from February onwards except at Leek where 2,000+ were still present. Other notable counts in January were 1,000 at Ipstones and 700 at Whitmore - Bent Lane; in February 1450 at Kemsey Manor and in March 600 at Swallow Moss and 420 at Berry Hill. The only post-breeding significant count was a roost of 2,000 birds at Branston GP on July 5th. In August up to 1,000 continued to roost at Branston GP (including a leucistic bird on 2nd) and the post-breeding flock at Berry Hill reached 340. Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 14,440 11,900 6,700 10,210 16,200 13,500 5,570 109,200 18,800

Visible migration was observed between September 20th and December 4th with birds heading predominantly west. Winter roosts comprised up to 20,000 birds at Aqualate Mere from mid- October until year end, up to 25,000 at Belvide Res in late December and 5,000 at Branston GP in November rising to 15,000 in December. The best flock counts were 1,000 at Doxey Marshes on November 30th with 700 there on December 27th and 500 at Whitmore - Bent Lane on November 10th.

175 W Mid This species was recorded at 133 locations via BirdTrack, with 56 of these occurring during the breeding season. Little or no information was received regarding breeding success. At Marsh Lane NR there were at least five pairs observed feeding young from mid-May. The first young were seen by Car Park Pool on May 31st, with fledglings continuing to increase until early-June, bolstered by birds from surrounding areas. During the first winter period the only significant count was a flock of 760 at Lutley Wedge on March 13th. The second winter period fared little better with 100+ at Bromsgrove on October 27th, 100+ at Sandwell Valley on 30th and c.1,000 at Marsh Lane NR, flying low west, on December 31st.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Scarce and declining, summer resident on the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Red-listed

Long-term average: March 29th (62) to October 28th (56) 8-year average: March 23rd (6 days earlier) to November 2nd (5 days later) First arrival: March 2nd; south Kenilworth (Warks) Last departure: October 31st; Cannock Chase (Staffs). Very late bird at Brandon on December 5th (Warks).

Warks A slight decrease on last year with four in spring, plus an early male, that possibly overwintered. This bird was first seen in south-west Kenilworth on March 2nd, remaining until 6th and then more occasionally until 16th, when its favoured single berry-bearing tree had been stripped TCa. In spring the now regular site of Gredenton Hill on the Fenny Compton Hills had different single males on April 7th and 15th JJB, with another nearby on the Burton Dassett Hills on 22nd JJB. The fourth was at Little Packington from 20th–25th CHi et al. In autumn, a single was at Napton Marina on October 20th and 21st KYa, and also on the latter date one was grounded by fog at Salford Priors GP JJB. The year closed with a male at Brandon on the unexpected date of December 5th, the first there since April 2007 BMVCT. Worcs A male was at Walton Hill with four, including two males, at Bredon Hill North Escarpment on April 3rd. There were 12 on Bredon Hill on April 5th with sightings almost daily until May 3rd including April 6th – 11, 7th – seven, 8th - eight, 9th – nine, 10th – 12, 11th – 12, 13th – 14, 14th – 12, 15th to 20th – 15, 22nd – 12, 29th – five and May 3rd – two. Walton Hill had three on April 7th, 19th and 20th with two on the 21st and 28th. Three, including one male were at Clent on April 15th on which date a male was at Wassell Grove and one was in a tree at Gwen Finch NR on the 22nd. There was a single bird at Malvern - North Hill on April 21st and on August 30th a female/juvenile was in a tree on Worcestershire Beacon. On return migration, Bredon Hill had one on October 7th, five on the 9th, a female on the 16th and two on the 21st. Seven were in Rowan Trees on Malvern - North Hill on October 8th with two here on the 9th, eight on the 11th, four on the 16th and single birds on the 19th, 20th, 22nd with two on the 21st and on the 28th. Staffs A good spring passage at Berry Hill commenced with a pair, the first of the spring, on April 3rd with the male still there the next day, one on 8th, a male on 16th and from18th– 21st, one on 28th and the last on May 1st. Elsewhere there were three females and a male at Wedgwood Monument on April 4th, a pair at Silverdale CP on 7th, one at Cannock Tip on 14th, a male at Belvide Res on 15th and a female at Audley Meadows on 16th. Two birds were on passage on the North Staffs Moorland on April 7th with eight, five males and three females, on 8th. One pair bred, probably fledging some young. Autumn passage birds comprised just a single flyover at Berry Hill Fields on October 8th and one at Cannock Chase - Chase Road on 31st. W Mid All records this year came in the spring with the earliest arrival, a male at Sandwell Valley on March 27th DSa. The next record was a male and a female at Sedgley Beacon on April 4th CRe. Next came a purple patch at Saltwells LNR and Netherton Res with one on April 6th,

176 followed by three on 7th ATh. Another was then seen at Sedgley Beacon, also on 7th CCl. A male and female were together at Lutley Wedge on April 15th CPR and the last record was one at on 19th Birdguides.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks There were only three significant counts specifically of breeding territories as follows: Brandon (10, cf. 17 in 2017), Ladywalk NR (15, cf. 16 in 2017) and Middleton Lakes (12, cf. 16 in 2017). On the whole most winter counts came in the first period, with those of 25 and above: 30 at Brandon on January 16th, 25 at Harborough Magna on February 2nd, 27 at Harbury on March 7th, 30 migrants in a cold snap at Fenny Compton STW on 17th and a peak March count in the Saxon Fields area (Warwick) of 55 on 24th. There was an autumn influx of 30 at Fenny Compton STW on October 18th, 50 at Wormleighton Res on 30th and 30 at Brandon on 31st. In November, 36 were at Harborough Magna and 33 at Little Kineton on 25th, 32 at Watchbury - Barford on 26th and, in December, 23 at Barcheston on 2nd, 31 at Manor Farm, Draycote on 12th and 43 at Harbury on 19th. Very small numbers were observed moving generally west or south-west from Coleman’s Hill between September 27th and November 3rd. A male was in very unseasonal full and sustained song at Fenny Compton every evening until well after dark from November 14th–22nd. Worcs Four pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum, three clutches of five and one clutch of four with all successfully fledging four young each. Pershore - Avon Meadows had counts over 20 for much of the year including 25 on January 4th and 28 on December 13th. Temple Dingle had 16 on February 11th as did Burlish Top on March 5th, Westwood Pool had 17 on April 22nd with 20 at Malvern Wood Street on May 20th. In December, there were 45 in a Stoke Bliss garden on the 15th. Staffs In the first winter period, Blackbird, Little Stoke, Dave Emley the larger flocks were 40 at Alrewas, 36 at Doxey Marshes and 26 at Berry Hill. There were 29 breeding territories at Berry Hill (31, 28, 33, 25 and 32 in the previous five years), 34 birds were counted at Alrewas on June 9th and 33 at Norbroom Marsh on May 15th. In the second winter period, the flock sizes were smaller than last year, suggesting fewer continental visitors, with the best being 39 at Berry Hill on December 28th, 29 at Doxey Marshes on November 11th and 28 at Brindley Ford on September 9th and Alrewas on December 17th. W Mid This species was recorded at 204 locations via BirdTrack with most of these during the breeding season. At Marsh Lane NR there was in increase in breeding numbers to 14 pairs this year (11-12 in 2017) but no young were recorded. Elsewhere in the county, breeding was reported from a further 22 locations but in reality, this is a vast underestimate. High counts were as follows: 24 at Coundon Wedge on February 3rd, 20 at Sandwell Valley on March 1st, 33 at Amblecote on April 3rd, 20 at Sutton Park NNR on 21st, 49 at Allesley Park on June 1st and 41 Nailcote Hall on 2nd.

177 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs. Moors 197477, 1980 and 1985. Red-listed

Long-term average: September 30th (83) to May 5th (82) 8-year average: September 20th (10 days earlier) to May 6th (1 day later) First arrival: September 22nd; Wyken Croft NR (WMid) Last departure: May 17th; Tredington (Warks)

Warks Some very large numbers were again in the south and south-east in both winter periods. Flocks at Fenny Compton increased from 750 on January 1st and 2nd to a peak of 900 on 29th, with a February maximum of 650 on 22nd. On that date an individual with a white head and breast was observed, which looked identical to a bird photographed later at Kingham (Oxon) on March 1st. The highest number here in March was 900 on 9th. Other maxima in this district included 375 at Ladbroke on January 12th, 500 at Farnborough Park on 19th, 650 at Knightcote on February 21st, and 650 in the Wormleighton area from 24th–26th. Flocks elsewhere in January and February included 200 at Wishaw on January 3rd, 200 at Welford-on-Avon on 21st, 500 at Charlecote on 23rd, 200 at Honington on 28th, 250 at Shustoke on February 4th and 400 at Ballard’s Green on 21st. In March, over 1,000 were present at Church Hill - Wormleighton on 10th, which dispersed to the north-east during the morning, while 400 flew north-east at Wormleighton Res next day. Later counts included 340 at Farnborough Park on 14th and 485 grounded at Priors Hardwick on 31st. The highest number in April was 2,000 held up by rain at Wormleighton Res on 2nd, and the last of the period was one at Welford-on-Avon on May 3rd and two at Tredington on 17th. The first autumn migrants were all seen on October 7th, with singles at Dairy Farm, - Fillongley and Saxon Mill - Warwick, and five over Ilmington. Birds were seen daily thereafter, with the first decent flocks of 77 at Coleman’s Hill and 180 on Fern Hill - Wormleighton on 17th. The following day, 209 moved over Hartshill Hayes CP, with 540 south- west at Knightcote on 20th. At Fenny Compton, flocks feeding on the haw crops increased steadily from 450 Fieldfare, Dickens Heath, Claire Workman on October 29th to a high of 3,000 on November 27th, before dropping to 1,000 by December 6th. Other counts in the south-east included 500 at Farnborough on November 10th and Wormleighton village on 13th, an influx of 1,000 to Lighthorne Quarry on 24th, and a peak of 700 at Wormleighton Res on 28th. Away from this part of the county, flocks of note included 250 at Dairy Farm on November 4th, 110 at Salford Priors GP on 11th, rising to 250 on December 9th, 400 at Southam Fields on 28th and 130 at Dunnington on 30th. A feature of the autumn was the regular early morning counting at Coleman’s Hill. From October 7th to November 10th 18 counts were made, recording 4,764 birds, mainly moving south-west or south. Highlights were 447 on October 20th, 748 on 27th, 1160 on November 3rd, 538 on 8th and 647 on 10th DRi. Worcs Croome Park had 580 on January 11th and Wickhamford had 220 on the 16th with 500 at Aston Somerville on the 18th. There were 280 feeding in grazed fields at John Bennett NR on January 19th with 150 at Lower Moor/Wick river meadows on the 30th whilst 620 were feeding

178 around floodwater at Longdon Marsh on the 29th with 500 here on February 2nd. On February 15th there were 450 at Netherton and 200 at Redhill with 160 at Little Comberton on the 21st. At Leigh Sinton, 130 were ringed in gardens during January/February. Clifton Pits had 150 on March 4th and 100 on the 7th with 130 at Eckington river meadows on the 9th, 100 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 22nd and 150 at both Trench Wood on the 24th and also at Tardebigge Res on the 25th. Upton Warren had 180 on March 9th and 337 on the 18th. In severe weather during March, birds were fighting over apples in Redditch gardens. Birds were still present well into April with 30 at Abberton on the 14th and a single at Bredon Hill on the 25th. Returning birds were noted on October 7th at Bredon Hill, Croome Park and Upton Warren. Lower Moor had 70 on October 25th, 210 on November 7th and 250 on December 14th and 23rd. Redditch - Oakenshaw had 170 on November 3rd. Bredon Hill north escarpment had 1200 on November 18th and John Bennett NR had 140 on the 22nd. Upton Warren had 200 on November 13th and 120 on December 11th whilst Wickhamford had 18 on the 6th. An adult female ringed at Leigh Sinton on December 14th, 2017 flew into a window at Vastra Gotaland, Sweden on May 10th this year. Staffs In the first winter period there were good numbers present throughout. In January, 200 at Gailey and River Sow Meadows; in February 250 at Abbots Bromley, 400 at Blithfield Res and 200 at Gailey Res; in March 200 at Aqualate Mere, Belvide Res and Branston GP, 210 at Curborough, 1,000 at Lower Foxley and 300 at Weston Jones Farm. A late flock of 350 birds descended on Belvide Res on April 3rd and the last spring birds were six at Bateswood and five at Croxall Lakes on April 15th and one at Berry Hill on 20th. The first arrivals in the autumn were three at Cannock Chase - Tackeroo on September 26th and six at Hanchurch Woods on 28th. After these, there were 34 over Berry Hill and nine over Black Bank on October 7th with further passage birds thereafter. Visible migration totalled just over 4,000 birds with the last on November 24th and noted particularly at Berry Hill and Black Bank. The highest counts were 253 over Berry Hill on October 8th and 262 over Black Bank on 30th. Notable grounded flocks were 350 at Elkstone on October 19th, 300 at Swallow Moss on 26th, 220 at Whitemoor Haye on November 3rd, 250 at Wychnor and 300 at Yoxall on 5th, 170 at Belvide Res on 11th and 150 at Branston GP on December 9th and 11th. W Mid Records were received from 79 locations via BirdTrack. During the first winter period there were no great numbers in January apart from 70+ at Fulford Heath, 54 at Lutley Wedge and 75 at Marsh Lane NR. Between February 22nd and March 5th a cold front known as “The Beast from the East” saw a spike in numbers with 46 at Castle Hills, 53 at Kingswinford, an impressive 770 at Lutley Wedge on March 1st, 60 at Marsh Lane NR, 40 at Reedswood Park, 62 at Shirley and 40+ at The Ridge Wood. The only other noticeable flock was c.100 at Close Wood on February 2nd. The arrival of spring saw a flock of 100+ at Stourbridge on April 10th with the last record of the period from Netherton Res on 14th. During the second winter period the first arrival was at Wyken Croft NR on September 22nd. There were then small numbers until the main arrival towards the end of October. The only notable count was 180+ at Sutton Park NNR on 29th.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Red-listed

Long-term average: September 26th (84) to April 20th (83) 8-year average: September 19th (7 days earlier) to April 27th (7 days later) First arrival: September 22nd; Bredon Hill (Worcs) Last departure: April 22nd; Doxey Marshes (Staffs)

Warks Counts at Fenny Compton during the first quarter included 1,000 in two flocks on January 1st and 2nd, dropping to a monthly maximum of 200 on February 22nd. Numbers declined swiftly in March, with a high of 80 on 17th. Away from the south-east, other large

179 flocks in January included 370 at Baddesley Clinton on 5th, 200 at Welford-on-Avon on 21st, 200 at Ansley Common on 29th and 240 at Netherwood Heath on 30th. In February, the best flocks were 300 at Brandon on 22nd and 250 at Oxhouse Farm on 28th, and in March, 200 at Kinwarton on 6th, 250 at Packwood on 13th and 200 at Hardingwood Hill - Fillongley on 27th. The last records were four at Fenny Compton Tunnels on April 6th, two at Weston-on-Avon on 9th and a single at Brandon on 10th. The first in autumn were singles at Bedworth Woodlands and Draycote on September 26th. Further single-figure counts followed at several sites until October 5th, when 15 appeared at Hartshill Hayes CP, and then from 7th a strong passage of hundreds was noted at Coleman’s Hill (see below). In the south-east, the first large influx concerned counts of 200 at Fenny Compton Tunnels and 300 at Wormleighton Res on 30th. In November, numbers at Wormleighton Res peaked at 1100 on 22nd and in the neighbouring parish of Fenny Compton there was an influx of 2,500 feeding on the haw crop on 26th and 27th. Elsewhere, counts included 140 at Morton Bagot on 11th, 400 at Gaydon on 24th, an influx of 1700 at Lighthorne Quarry also on 24th, 200 at Welford-on-Avon on December 2nd, 200 at Salford Priors GP on 9th and 150 at Dairy Farm on 23rd. The early morning counts at Coleman’s Hill logged a total of around 4,402 birds on 27 visits. The first record was of four on September 27th, and the final visit was on November 10th. After the first few smaller counts, a strong passage began on October 7th with 201, then 556 on 8th and 1,207 on 9th which was the best daily count. Only 209 were noted on 11th, then better numbers on 19th and 20th, with 359 and 379 respectively. In November, 486 were counted on 8th and 169 on 10th, when counts stopped. As with other species, and not unexpectedly, birds mainly flew to the south or south-west, with some to the west DRi. Worcs Notable counts in January included 175 at Croome Park on the 11th, 300 at Aston Somerville on the 18th and 175 at Upton Warren on the 23rd which also had 200 on February 1st and 159 on March 18th. Temple Dingle had 140 on February 15th and there were 106 at Bowbrook on the 18th. In March, one was found under-weight and frozen at Little Comberton on the 6th after severe weather and there were 100 at both Shakenhurst on the 11th and at Tardebigge on the 25th. In April, one was at Bricklehampton on the 9th with 12 at Berrow on the 10th and singles at Upton Warren Flashes on the 14th and at Penorchard Meadow on the 18th. Six were found on Bredon Hill on September 22nd with 50 on October 7th and 200 here on the 21st. A Teme Valley migration study recorded 429 on October 8th with 250 in Hawthorn hedges at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 17th and 100 with Lapwings at Bredicot on the 30th. Lower Moor river meadows had 400 on November 7th and 950 on the 14th with 100 at Redditch Oakenshaw on the 8th whilst Croome Park had 175 on the 11th. The highest county report for 2018 was at Bredon Hill north escarpment with 1400 on November 18th with 250 at the nearby John Bennett NR on the 22nd. Upton Warren had 300 on November 17th with 100 on December 13th and there were 200 at Wick river meadows on the 19th. Staffs In the first winter period there were very few large flocks, unlike Fieldfare, the best in January being 70 at Ingestre. In February the only three-figure counts were 210 at Berry Hill, 105 at Alrewas and 100 at Radford Meadows. In March there were 200 at Aqualate Mere on 3rd, 200 at Curborough on 4th, 100 at Barton-under-Needwood on 9th, 100 at Blithfield Res on 13th, 163 at Berry Hill on 21st then an exceptional 1100 flew east at Berry Hill on 29th. Small numbers were present in early April, the last being six at Doxey Marshes on 9th and one on 22nd. The first returning bird arrived at Belvide Res on September 29th with two over Black Bank on October 1st. Visible migration was recorded primarily at Berry Hill and Black Bank, beginning on October 1st and ending on November 30th but for the first time included some nocturnal migration recordings made at Baddeley Green. The grand total was 9,720 (17,860 last year), the best counts from Berry Hill being 2,830 on October 8th, 442 on 17th and 452 on 20th and at Black Bank, 448 on 31st. The highest wintering flock counts were 150 at Middle Mayfield on November 3rd, 200 at Wychnor on 5th, 120 at Branston GP on 11th, 200 at Toadhole Bridge - Colwich on 12th, 200 at Branston GP on 20th, 200 at Keele University on 22nd and 200 at

180 Branston GP on December 16th. A bird ringed in a garden at Little Aston on December 11th, 2016 was re-trapped there on November 9th this year. The BTO say this is not uncommon, suggesting that migrating birds often revisit places they have been to in previous years. W Mid This species was recorded at 112 locations throughout the county via BirdTrack. Notable counts during the first winter period were as follows: 124 at Sutton Park NNRon January 4th, 75 at Marsh Lane NR on 14th, 180 at Barston on 19th, 85 at Lutley Wedge on February 1st, 90 at West Park on 5th, 120 at Berkswell on 12th, 85 at Elmdon Park on March 26th and 123 at Great Wyrley on 23rd. Surprisingly the “Beast from the East” had little effect and there was no discernible change in numbers unlike Fieldfare. The latest spring record was received from Marsh Lane NR on April 9th. During the second winter period the first arrivals were seen at Marsh Lane NR, Reedswood Park, Monkspath, Sutton Park NNR and Westwood Heath, all on October 7th. Notable flocks included 146 at Monkspath on October 7th, 216 in Sutton Park NNR on 10th, 100 at Marsh Lane NR on November 6th and 105 at The Leasowes on 20th.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined, though still abundant, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Red-listed Warks Six singing males were present at Brandon on February 12th, with five breeding territories at Ladywalk NR and nine at Middleton Lakes. Four pairs bred at Salford Priors GP, while 13 singing males were counted in 1km² of village gardens and farmland at Little Kineton on November 25th. The first winter period saw few counts of any size, with 10 at Dunsmore Heath on March 13th the best. Autumn counts included 10 at Astley on September 28th, 12 heard over Napton Hill at night on October 9th, 11 more heard there on 17th, 20 in a meadow at Fenny Compton on 18th, 16 in scrub by the Ham Brook - Knightcote on 20th (and 18 there on December 4th) and 10 at Idlicote on December 1st. Additionally, autumn counting at Coleman’s Hill showed mainly small numbers, with peaks of 21 on October 8th and 12 on 11th. These were early morning counts and birds were predominantly moving south-west or west. Six feeding in game cover at Hodnell on December 2nd were thought to be of the nominate continental race. Worcs Two nests at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged four young each from clutches of five. At Wick river meadows, 30 were feeding on game crops in January and February. There were nine at Pershore - Avon Meadows on January 25th with ten here on March 15th. In February, Blackstone had five on the 11th with six in a Wyre Forest grid square on the 17th. There were eight at Stanford on Teme on March 6th with ten along the canal from Alvechurch to Bittell on April 20th and also at Pershore - Avon Meadows on May 3rd. Broome had six on September 12th as did Upton Song Thrush, Ladywalk, Peter Lichfield Warren on November 5th whilst eight were at Park Plantation on November 25th and nine were at Pershore - Avon Meadows on December 20th. The game feed crops at Wick were again utilised in December with up to 40 feeding here through the month.

181 Staffs Breeding was confirmed at 11 sites, but there were widespread additional reports of territorial / singing birds. Territories at surveyed sites included 12 at Berry Hill (10, eight, seven, six, six and seven in the previous six years), 19 at Coombes Valley (15 last year) and 11 at River Sow Meadows (five, three, 12, six, six and seven in the previous six years). W Mid Marsh Lane NR saw quite a dramatic fall in breeding numbers with only seven singing birds (cf. 12 in 2017). Elsewhere, birds were recorded at a further 125 sites and of these 75 held birds during the breeding season which is broadly in line with recent years. Notable counts included nine at Smestow Valley LNR on January 26th (and December 30th), eight at Allesley Park on March 31st, eight at Nailcote Hall on June 2nd and 20 at Sedgley Beacon on October 3rd.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Red-listed Warks Single breeding pairs were noted commonly. The following sites held two or more confirmed breeders or singing males: Baddesley Clinton (five singing males), Bedworth Nook (two), Brandon (two), Farnborough (ten in parish), Fenny Compton (a record for the observer of 14 across the parish), Hatton Green (three), Ladbroke (two), Lighthorne Quarry (three in area), Wasperton (two singing males) and Wormleighton (five). The best flocks were 14 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on February 25th, 12 at Willey on July 22nd, 21 at Caldecote on August 8th, 30 in the Ratley area on September 22nd and 11 at Brandon on 23rd. In addition, migration counts from September 22nd to November 1st at Coleman’s Hill recorded 55 individuals moving south or south-west, the best daily counts of seven on September 22nd, eight on 24th and 11 on 27th. Worcs Four were at Stanford on Teme on January 1st and also at Penorchard Meadow on the 12th. Lower Park had six on March 17th. A clutch of four was successfully fledged at Bodenham Arboretum. Breeding was confirmed at Bredon Hill (three+ pairs), Bricklehampton Hall, Croome Park (two+ pairs), Kemerton Parkland (two pairs) and Parkland (three pairs) with birds present through the year. Breeding was also successful at Arrow Lake with a nesting pair mobbing a Carrion Crow at Little Comberton on April 25th. An adult was carrying food at Upton Warren Moors on May 11th and juveniles were found near this site on the 16th. There were post-breeding flocks of 12 at Longdon Marsh on August 21st and of 22 at Overbury Parkland on September 17th. Six were ringed at Leigh Sinton from a party of eight on August 6th and ten were feeding on Rowan berries at Worcester St Johns on the 12th. Five were at Park Plantation on August 3rd and eight were at Hanley William on September 4th. Four were north of Hurcutt on August 27th with six here on September 11th and five flew down the Teme Valley on September 30th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had four on October 18th. At least eight were at Croome Park from October to December feeding on Yew berries on which dates six were feeding on Mistletoe berries in hedgerows at Lower Moor/Wick Wetlands. Eight also fed on Mistletoe berries at Kemerton Parkland in December. Staffs Singing birds were recorded as early as January 10th at Hem Heath Wood and were widespread by mid-February. Breeding was confirmed at 13 sites, with probable / possible breeding was recorded at a further 39 sites. Berry Hill, Coombes Valley, Ingestre and Kingswood Bank all held six territories. High post-breeding counts were 15 at Belvide Res on July 1st, 12 at Berry Hill on August 10th, 16 at Sutton on September 2nd, 40 at Tunstall - Adbaston on 9th, 14 at Cannock Chase - Cadet Huts on 13th and 10 at Doxey Marshes on 14th. W Mid Birds were recorded at a total of 98 sites throughout the year with 26 sites having pairs observed during the breeding season. It was a poor year at Marsh Lane NR with just one pair raising two young. In addition, numbers were generally down on recent years, the only notable counts were eight at Kings Norton on January 12th, 20 in Sutton Park NNR on August 21st, eight at Bartley Res on October 6th and six in the Sandwell Valley on 23rd.

182 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common, though declining, summer resident. Red-listed

Long-term average: May 3rd (82) to September 30th (820 8-year average: May 2nd (1 day earlier) to October 4th (4 days later) First arrival: May 4th; Fenny Compton (Warks) Last departure: September 27th; Sandwell Valley (WMid), Lower Smite Farm (Worcs)

Warks Although not quite as numerous in the south of the county as the last couple of years, confirmed or probable breeding pairs were still found at 88 sites, with birds also noted in potentially suitable nesting habitat at a further 34 locations. Parishes or sites with three or more breeding pairs were: Cawston Woods (three), Clifford Chambers (four), Farnborough Park (three), Honington (four), Idlicote (three), Ilmington (10), Leamington Hastings (five), Preston-on-Stour (four), Priors Hardwick (three) Wolverton (three) and Wormleighton (five). Further north, breeding was only confirmed at Pooley CP and Willey. The warm and sunny weather in June and July will have been a particular boon for this species. Some of the more notable records were a pair nesting against a garage in Clifford Chambers for the third time in four years, a pair nesting in the porch of the parish church at Idlicote and a pair nesting on the back of a noticeboard in Leamington Hastings. The first in spring were at Fenny Compton and Morton Bagot on May 4th, although after another at Wormleighton on 5th, there were no further sightings until one was at Kenilworth on 19th. On return passage the largest party was 15 in Wormleighton on August 11th, and the last of the year were two at Fenny Compton on September 26th. Worcs The first arrival was seen at the Wyre Forest on May 11th and birds were regularly seen here from this date. Birds were recorded Spotted Flycatcher, , Theo de Clermont from 44 locations with breeding confirmed from 15, and a further 12 reporting pairs during the breeding season. TheWyre Forest area held 11 singing males, whilst Woodbury Hill and Pebworth held three males each, and Old Storridge, Croome Park, Abberton and Kemerton Village all recorded two pairs. A monitored nest at Bodenham Arboretum fledged four chicks from a clutch of five, while another at Abberton, from two broods, raised a minimum of four fledglings. Away from core breeding areas, the highest passage count was three at Bittell Reservoirs on September 5th. The final bird of the year was recorded at Lower Smite Farm on September 27th. Staffs The first arrivals were at Coombes Valley and Wettonmill on May 5th, with a general influx from 24th onwards. Most birds appeared to arrive at their breeding sites, the only passage birds were at Chasewater Res on 8th, Doxey Marshes on 24th, Silverdale CP on 26th and Radial Park on 28th. Year 2006 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Breeding Sites 28 42 51 41 36 33 51 58 36 49 30 27 30

Breeding was confirmed at Bearda (two pairs), Eccleshall, Kingswood Bank (four pairs), Knypersley Res, Middle Mayfield, Toadhole Bridge - Colwich and Wettonmill. Of the probable breeding sites, Cannock Chase held at least seven territories, Coombes Valley two, Forest Wood four and Hanchurch Woods four, otherwise single territories were recorded. Excellent numbers

183 of return passage birds were logged, the first three at Blithfield on August 6th and during the remainder of the month birds were at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool (six), Belvide Res (nine), Berry Hill (two), Blithfield (seven), Brankley Pastures NR (four), Croxden Quarry (two), Doxey Marshes (two), Dydon Wood (four), Forster Bridge and Iverley Park Farm. The good autumn continued in September with birds at Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool, Belvide Res (five), Berry Hill (four), Blithfield Res (four), Bradeley, Crossplains (three), Doxey Marshes (two), Essington Hall Farm (seven), Ford Green NR (two), Jackson’s Marsh, Lower Elkstone, Middle Mayfield (five), Middleton Lakes (two) and Sutton. The last birds were at Berry Hill on September 23rd and Middleton Lakes on 25th and 26th. W Mid The only birds seen during the breeding season were two at Siden Hill Wood near Marsh Lane NR on June 3rd. In addition, two were seen at Berkswell in early-August. Although they were not at their traditional churchyard breeding site, they may well have been an unnoticed pair. It is safe to say that spring passage was poor – there wasn’t a single bird seen! Autumn passage commenced with a single in Sutton Park NNR on August 11th and birds were then present on and off until September 9th, with a peak of 15 on August 30th. Elsewhere, ones and twos were seen at Barr Beacon, Fishley Lane - Walsall, Goscote Valley, Marsh Lane NR, Netherton Res, North Common (Pelsall) and Sandwell Valley. The honour of the latest record goes to Sandwell Valley with three seen on September 27th.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Green-listed Warks Counts of territories included: 28 at Alvecote Pools, a minimum of 14 at Brandon, 35 in the Harborough Magna area, 30 in 62 ha of deciduous woodland at Kingsbury Wood, 21 at Ladywalk NR and 12 at Middleton Lakes. The highest count outside the breeding season was 27 in 1km2 of gardens and farmland at Little Kineton on November 25th. Worcs Two clutches of five at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged four young each. A grid square in the Wyre Forest had 45 on June 10th and 40 on July 9th. There were 16 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on January 11th, 12 on August 16th and 23 on December 20th with birds already pairing. Other double-figure counts included Burlish Top 12 on January 22nd, Westwood Pool 12 on April 22nd, Wythall Park 13 on June 1st, Arrow Lake 11 on October 19th and 11 at a Pershore grid square on December 24th. Staffs 26 birds held territory at Coombes Valley, 24 at Hednesford Hills and 20 at Alrewas. The highest counts outside the breeding season were 23 at Sutton on February 18th and 21 at Doxey Marshes on the same date. W Mid There were a staggering 2,525 entries via BirdTrack from 199 locations, most of which were during the breeding season. At Marsh Lane NR there were 20 singing birds which was down on last year’s 29. It was thought that this might be attributed to “The Beast from the East” and therefore a temporary blip. Although “Present” on BirdTrack was a common denominator, there were some actual counts which included highs of 49 at Amblecote on January 10th, 29 at Stourbridge on February 27th, 28 at Sutton Park NNR on April 21st, 36 at Nailcote Hall on 22nd and 47 at Allesley Park on December 22nd.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident, increasingly confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 21st (82) to … insufficient data 8-year average: April 16th (5 days earlier) to … insufficient data First arrival: April 10th; Site E (Worcs) Last departure: Insufficient data

184 Worcs Although still extremely vulnerable in the county, several traditional sites still attract breeding birds. Reports were received for 17 singing males this year (15 in 2017) from seven sites. The first singing male was at Site E on April 10th with two on the 12th and five here on May 2nd and 8th. One was singing at Site I on April 20th and heard regularly until May 15th. Site D produced two singers on April 20th (one in 2017) and again on May 1st. Site F had one on April 21st with five here on May 6th (same as in 2017) and four on the 12th. Only two singers were found at Site A on April 24th (three in 2017) but a male was singing strongly at new site J on May 9th. In addition, snatches of song were heard at new site K on May 3rd with strong song on the 23rd. (RAP, CLa, RMa, JSp, WCa, AWa, GHP, TTr, BTu).

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Staffs and Worcs. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 19th (72) to September 6th (53) 8-year average: April 9th (10 days earlier) to August 18th (19 days earlier) First arrival: April 10th; Doxey Marshes; (Staffs) Last departure: August 26th; Kingswood Pool (Staffs)

Warks Two birds were recorded on spring passage, a female in an Avon Dassett garden on April 14th MJL, and a male around the ruins at Guy’s Cliffe, Warwick on May 5th LBr, JBr. In the post-breeding season, a male was along the canal at Middleton Lakes on July 31st DCor. Worcs The first record came from Salwarpe Village on April 14th, followed on the 15th by the first returning bird in the Wyre Forest. Most records of the year came from the forest, where nine singing males were found during survey work in core areas of the forest. 12 individual birds were recorded on May 12th. Additionally, in Malvern, four nests were recorded on Midsummer Hill plus an additional two unpaired males. Single singing males were also noted on Swinyard Hill, Weymans Wood and Castlemorton Common. The latter location also hosting the final record of the year on July 13th. Staffs Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Breeding Sites 16 18 16 12 13 22 13 11 13 14 15 22

A good increase in breeding sites is encouraging given the national decline of this species. The first three arrivals were at Doxey Marshes on April 10th with two remaining the following day, all males. The only other passage birds were a male at Hanchurch Woods on May 14th and another at Keele University on 21st and 22nd; both were singing but didn’t stay. Breeding was confirmed or suspected at Back Forest area (two-four territories), Bearda area (18 nests, cf. 18, 17, 16, 12-13, 15, 16 and 16 in the previous seven years), Cannock Chase (seven territories, up from five and one in the last two years), Churnet Valley NR (13, 12 last year), Consall CP (four, three last year), Coombes Valley (13, three last year), Danebridge (two), Dimmingsdale (one–two), Kingswood Bank (two), Knypersley (three males singing, no females seen), Manifold Valley - Ossoms Hill area (two), Oakamoor, South Farley (two), Tittesworth Res, Toadhole Bridge - Colwich (two) and Trentham Gardens (two). The only bird seen on autumn passage was at Kingswood Pool on August 25th which was also the last bird of the year. W Mid Two spring records both recorded via BirdTrack, the first at Netherton Res on April 14th followed by another at Olton Station on 17th.

185 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Rare summer resident and scarce, though increasing, passage migrant and winter visitor. Red- listed Warks Just one record, but nonetheless an excellent find, was a juvenile around a derelict barn in the parish of Preston-on-Stour CPr, MPr. First found on August 7th, it lingered for well over a month until September 25th. Worcs This was a poor year for sightings in the county with just three reports received. A female was briefly at Westwood Pool on March 21st WDu and a first-summer male was at Farm Barns on April 25th TMH. In October, one was at the trig point on Malvern Hills - Worcestershire Beacon on the 19th. DCollins. Staffs A female was present at Lichfield - Beacon Park from March 23rd - 25th BRea, JRea, a female at Upper Elkstone on March 25th DHa and another at Ball Green on April 13th DVi. W Mid The decline of the this once regional speciality continues apace with just two records: a male was seen and heard on an unspecified date in May, singing from a large building opposite Hirons Garden Centre in PMH and a male was heard singing in New Street - Birmingham City Centre on June 15th SHa

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common, though localised and much decreased, summer resident in Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Amber-listed

Long-term average: April 9th (82) to September 29th (81) 8-year average: April 3rd (6 days earlier) to October 6th (7 days later) First arrival: April 5th; Bredon Hill (Worcs) Last departure: October 7th; Bredon Hill (Worcs)

Warks There was no suggestion of any pairs nesting in the county this year. A light spring passage commenced with one on an unspecified date in the first week of April at Lower/Upper Quinton, followed by a male at Alvecote Pools on 13th. The majority of the nine spring records were noted from Coventry southwards, the only other in the north coming from Ladywalk NR on May 5th. The last was at Warwick Racecourse on 21st. The first returning bird was a male at Mill Hill - Fenny Compton on the early date of June 19th. Autumn passage was very good, with a minimum of 70 birds. Of particular note were six mostly moulting males at Priors Hardwick on July 21st and three at Lighthorne Quarry on 22nd. Moving into August, the north of the county took centre stage from mid-month. Four were on the Mancetter Hills on both 12th and 27th, and a good series of records at Alvecote Pools culminated in five being found also on 27th. Other sites where birds Common Redstart, Cannock Chase, Steve Edwards were seen fairly frequently were Salford Priors GP, with perhaps around seven different birds between July 17th-August 26th

186 and Astley, with one or two on eight dates between August 6th and September 6th. The last of the year was a female at Fenny Compton on September 28th. Worcs Birds were first recorded on April 5th on Bredon Hill, when two birds were found. Singing males were found mostly in the west of the county, as shown in the attached table. Of singing males recorded, at least five were successfully paired on Bredon Hill. Particular note must be given to the probable breeding record from Upton Warren, where a male was recorded consistently singing, followed by regular sightings of a family party, with two juveniles. A female with a juvenile at Lower Moor on June 25th may have indicated local breeding. Birds were recorded from Weymans Wood, Pepper Wood and Ladywood during the breeding season; however no breeding evidence was submitted. A strong post-breeding dispersal resulted in well distributed records during July and August with birds recorded from 14 non tabulated sites, with high counts of six at Grimley on July 21st and Lower Moor on August 13th. Upton Warren and Lower Moor held regular birds throughout the autumn. A bird recorded at Bredon Hill on October 7th was the last sighting.

Site Bredon Knapp & Ladywood Malvern Perry Stanford Upton Wyre Hill Papermill Common Hills Wood on Teme Warren Forest Singing males 7 1 1 5 1 1 1 10

Staffs Five pairs were known to have successfully fledged young in the county (11, six, 11, five and 10 in the past five years) and territories were held at 35 sites in total, a drop from previous years (53, 51, 37, 37, 58 and 45 in the previous six years). There were at least 15 territories located on Cannock Chase compared with 25, 21, 16, 24 and 23 in the past five years, mirroring the drop county wide. There were eight territories in the Forest Wood area, six at Bearda and six birds at Wettonmill. The first returning birds were at Belvide Res, Cannock Tip and Consall CP on April 14th. After this there was a general influx from 18th onwards with further April sightings recorded at Belvide Res, Branston GP, Cannock Chase (six), Coombes Valley (five), Doxey Marshes, Elkstone (two), Hanchurch Woods, Sniddles, Tittesworth Res (two), and Upper Elkstone (two). Late passage birds in May were seen at Belvide Res on 1st and 2nd, Chasewater Res on 2nd, Berry Hill on 3rd, I54, Kinver Edge on 5th and Woodlands on 6th. The first return passage bird was a juvenile at Blithfield Res on July 6th, then Berry Hill, Gnosall and I54 on 21st and two individuals at Berry Hill on 25th and 31st. In August birds were present at Alrewas, Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool (two), Belvide Res (four), Berry Hill (all month with a maximum of 13 on 23rd and 10 on 25th), Blithfield Res, Branston GP (two), Cannock Chase (two), Chasewater Res, Doxey Marshes (two), Gibbet Wood (two), I54 (two), Ingestre, Kingswood Pool (five), Knypersley Res, Preston Hill, Preston Vale (two), Radial Park (two), Silverdale CP (two), Toadhole Bridge - Colwich and Whittington. Birds continued to be recorded in September at Branston GP on 2nd, three at Doxey Marshes on 3rd, Berry Hill on 4th, Blithfield Res, Cannock Chase - Oldacre Valley, Crossplains and Essington Hall Farm on 5th, Blithfield Res on 9th, Middle Mayfield on 10th, Lower Elkstone on 11th and the last at Cuckoo Bank on 15th. W Mid It was a poor spring with just three records, the earliest of which was a bird observed at Woodgate Valley CP on April 6th with the last at Lutley Wedge on 8th. The return passage saw the majority of records at Sutton Park NNR with the first there on July 15th. Birds were then seen regularly until September 8th, with a peak of 18 on August 28th and 29th. Elsewhere, a male was seen at High Ash (north Meriden) on August 17th, with two at Barr Beacon on 25th and the final record was from Sandwell Valley on September 27th.

187 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon or frequent, but much declined, summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 23rd (82) to October 10th (78) 8-year average: April 16th (7 days earlier)) to October 12th (2 days later) First arrival: April 13th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs) Last departure: September 27th; Kyre (Worcs)

Warks A decent spring passage got underway on April 15th when one was at Whittleford Park. The bulk passed through between 21st and May 5th, when there were records from 11 sites. The majority were lone birds, but a male and female were at Priors Hardwick on April 21st and two males were in the Milcote area on May 3rd. The last of the spring were at Morton Bagot on 20th and Brandon on 21st. The first to appear on return passage was at Watchbury - Barford on July 12th, and southbound movement stretched until September 28th, when the final two were at Packwood. During this period reports came from 22 sites, mainly from northern and southern districts, and numbered around c.53 birds. The only one in the east was at Hillmorton Locks on August 1st. The most frequented sites were Alvecote Pools and Packwood, with records on 10 and nine days respectively. The best concentrations were four at Fillongley on September 5th and eight at Astley on 6th. Additional sites where birds were reported on more than one day were Caldecote, Coventry Airport, Farnborough, Kingsbury WP and Priors Hardwick. Worcs The first arrival was in the fields north of Upper Bittell Res on April 22nd. A female was at Pershore - Avon Meadows on May 3rd with one at Stanklyn on the same date and another was at Upper Hollowfield on the 12th. One was at an ornamental fountain at Pershore on July 27th. An adult was at Camp Lane Pits on July 23rd with two, adult and juvenile, here on the 25th. A juvenile was then present at Camp Lane Pits until September 6th with two juveniles here on August 3rd, 4th, 6th and 10th. One was at Gwen Finch NR on August 16th with a juvenile at Holt Heath on the 21st and one at Porters Mill on the 24th and again here on September 14th. Broughton Hackett had one on August 22nd with one at Kemerton Lake NR on September 3rd and two juveniles at Upton Warren Moors on the 4th with one at the Flashes on the 5th and 6th. One was recorded on a Teme Valley migration watch on September 5th, and on the same date, four were at Upper Bittell Res north fields. A family party of four was at Longdon Marsh - Hill Court Farm on September 6th with a Whinchat, North Staffs Moors, Steve Seal juvenile at Grimley - Church Farm Meadows on the 10th and one at Porters Mill on the 14th. Two were at Ashmoor Common on September 15th with a juvenile at Woodrow on the 18th. Ripple Pits had a single on September 22nd and 23rd when one was also found at Clifton Pits. The latest report was for a juvenile found at Kyre on September 27th. Staffs The first spring passage bird was at Doxey Marshes from April 13th–14th, then Cuckoo Bank on 21st. Further April sightings came from Apedale from 23rd–26th, Crossplains on 23rd with four on 25th, Berry Hill from 25th–29th with three on 27th, Whitmore - Bent Lane with two on 25th, Ford Green NR on 27th and Dilhorne and Little Bank Top Farm on 28th. Good numbers

188 continued into May with birds at Berry Hill from 1st–4th peaking at four on 2nd, Crossplains on 1st and 7th, Middleton Lakes from 1st–3rd with two on 2nd, two at Doxey Marshes on 2nd rising to three on 3rd and two on 5th, two at Whitmore - Bent Lane on 2nd, Chasewater Res and Hixon Airfield on 3rd and Otherton on 5th. The last spring birds were at Middleton Lakes on 11th and Bilbrook, Crossplains and I54 on 12th. The first return passage bird was at Blithfield Res on August 7th, then Berry Hill from 9th–25th peaking at seven on 23rd, Tucklesholme NR on 11th, two at Middleton Lakes on 12th and 13th with one on 27th, two at Blithfield Res on 20th and one from 27th–29th, two at Belvide Res on 21st with one on 23rd, Crossplains and two at I54 on 23rd, Gailey Res, I54 and three at Kingswood Pool on 25th, Camp Farm on 26th and two at Cannock Chase on 30th with one on 31st. Good numbers in September were submitted from Alvecote Pools - Pretty Pigs Pool (two), Belvide Res, Berry Hill (up to six from 4th–16th), Blithfield Res (6th–12th with six on 8th), Branston GP (up to three from 6th–21st), Chasewater Res, Cuckoo Bank (five on 22nd and three on 23rd), Dimmingsdale, Doxey Marshes, Essington Quarry Pool, Gailey Res, I54, Kingwood Pool (four on 22nd), Middleton Lakes (three on 5th) and Westport Lake. The last birds were at Belvide Res and Middleton Lakes on 24th and Cuckoo Bank on 25th. W Mid There were only three spring records this year (cf. nine in 2017). These were singles at Sandwell Valley on April 19th, and lastly at Castle Hills on 27th. The autumn saw a similar downturn in fortunes. The earliest was a single at Sutton Park NNR on July 18th, (followed by an impressive seven there on September 5th). Elsewhere, singles at Marsh Lane NR on August 9th (followed by another bird on September 5th), one at Netherton Res on September 6th and 7th, and one at Sandwell Valley on 23rd which was the last of the year.

European Stonechat Saxicola rubicola Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks During January-February, there were wintering birds (singles unless stated) at: Alvecote Pools (three), Brandon (two), Bubbenhall Meadow NR, Coleshill, Ladywalk NR, Marston Fields GP (two), Middleton Lakes (two on Southern Meadow), Morton Bagot (two), Netherwood Heath, Packwood and Welford-on-Avon. Spring passage during the period February 24th-March 10th involved ones or twos at Arlescote, Earlswood, Farnborough, Lea Marston and Wormleighton, with another at Ladywalk NR over a month later on April 17th. Return passage got underway with a very early juvenile at Kenilworth on July 7th, but there was then over a month’s gap until another juvenile was at Lighthorne Pools on August 18th. The main arrival commenced in mid-September, and stretched into mid-November, with records from 22 sites. The vast majority consisted of ones or twos, but with four at Salford Priors GP on September 16th, three at Packwood on 28th and three at Brandon on three dates in mid-October. Less well watched sites where one or two were noted were Fillongley, Ilmington Downs, Long Marston, Middle Spernall and . During November and December there were seemingly wintering birds (singles unless stated) at: Alvecote Pools, Brandon, Bubbenhall Meadow NR (three), Caldecote (four), Morton Bagot (two), Packwood, Whitacre Heath NR (two) and Wolston GP (two). Worcs Ripple Pits had four on January 1st with three, including two males, on the 14th and a pair again on February 18th when nearby Ryall Pits had one. Wintering pairs were also at Camp Lane Pits, Clifton Pits, Croome Park, Holt Heath, John Bennett NR, Kemerton Lake NR, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor/Wick river meadows, Pershore - Avon Meadows (three on February 1st and 22nd). Stanklyn Lane - Shenstone had three on February 17th. Other first winter period sightings came from Ashmoor Common, Burlish Top, Stanford on Teme, Upton Warren Flashes, Walton Pool and West Malvern. Castlemorton Common had a pair on April 6th whilst there were three pairs on the Malvern northern hills from May to August and breeding was confirmed with a fledged juvenile in August. A juvenile was ringed at Leigh Sinton on

189 August 6th whilst one was at Bredon Hill on the 29th. Three males were at Camp Lane Pits on September 29th, Walton Pool had two on October 7th with four, two pairs, at Kemerton Lake NR on the 19th. Bredon Hill had four on October 4th with three, two males and a female, at both Upper Bittell Res on the 8th and at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 18th with four here on the 26th. A first-winter male and female were at Lower Smite Farm on October 8th. Other second winter period pairs were reported from Bevere Island, Bittell Reservoirs, Camp Lane Pits, Chaddesley, Church Farm Pools, Croome Park, Holt, John Bennett NR, Lineholt, Malvern Hills, Pershore - Avon Meadows, Wick river meadows and Wyre Piddle. Staffs In the first winter period, birds were seen at 26 sites (43 and 22 in the past two year), usually in ones or twos but there were an impressive 14 at Doxey Marshes on February 18th with up to eight in January and four there in March, four at Berry Hill on March 10th with three at Belvide Res, Branston GP, Middleton Lakes and Tucklesholme NR. The last wintering/ passage birds were at Whitemoor Haye on April 7th and Berry Hill on 15th. Breeding was confirmed at Blackclough, Cannock Chase, Drystone Edge, Goldsitch Moss and Knotbury. In addition, territories were noted at Black Brook NR, Cannock Chase (three in addition to the confirmed breeding), Coombes Valley, Gradbach Hill east, Roaches (six), Roach End and Swallow Moss (two). The first return passage bird was at Hixon Airfield on June 24th, then Middleton Lakes from August 15th–21st and five at Blithfield Res on 17th. There were no further sightings until September 22nd when one was at Gailey Res and two at Kingswood Pool. Late autumn and winter sightings came from 31 sites with regular sightings from Branston GP (three on September 25th), Doxey Marshes (10 on October 18th, seven on 23rd, seven on December 28th), Middleton Lakes (five on December 10th) and Tucklesholme NR. Of the other sites, the best count was four at Whittington on September 24th. W Mid The pair at Castle Hills from 2017 was present until February 12th, when it was joined by another pair. By March 5th there were six birds there, comprising four males and two females. The last sighting was a male on April 27th, which was in the company of a male Whinchat! Elsewhere, others were present, often for several weeks, at Bartley Res, Lutley Wedge (two), Netherton Res, Parkes Hall Res, Park Lime Pits, Rushall Canal (Walsall) (two), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park NNR and Tenacre Fields. Autumn passage and winter birds were a little thin with five at Sutton Park NNR from September 29th–October 7th and at Castle Hills, a single was seen on November 2nd, with a pair present from November 23rd to the end of the year. The only other one was at Rushall Canal - Walsall on December 16th.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Frequent, summer visitor and scarce breeder, mainly to north Staffs. Fairly common and widespread on passage. One winter record. Green-listed

Long-term average: March 18th (81) to October 21st (81) 8-year average: March 12th (6 days earlier)) to November 3rd (13 days later) First arrival: March 13th; Berry Hill (Staffs) Last departure: October 22nd; North Hill (Worcs)

Warks It was another good spring passage, with records coming from around 33 sites between the first at Draycote on March 15th and the last at Morton Bagot on May 13th. Most related to one or two, but with a maximum of 13 at Hurley on April 24th. Other higher counts were three at both Barcheston and Crimscote Downs around late April to early May, four at Willey on April 28th and six at Wishaw on May 1st. Birds were recorded most regularly at Draycote, where they were present on 14 different dates. There were two odd June records at Whitnash on June 16th and Draycote on 24th. Return passage extended between early July and mid-October and was observed at 20 sites. The first was a juvenile near Compton Verney on July 6th. The majority of August records were singles, but two were at Farnborough on 20th–22nd and Astley on 27th. The main movement came through in September, with parties of two or three at Burton

190 Hastings, Draycote, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Salford Priors GP and Shustoke Res. There were three in October, at Burton Dassett Hills on 10th, Salford Priors GP on 13th and finally at Draycote on 18th. Worcs There was a reduction in the number of locations reporting sightings this year at 29 (34 in 2017). Numbers, particularly in the south of the county, were lower with poor passage in both periods. One was at Grimley on April 3rd with one at Westwood Pool on the 5th. Two males were in a horse paddock at Cropthorne on April 11th with Northern Wheatear, Berry Hill, Nick Pomiankowski three/four at Besford from the 18th to the 22nd and two, male and female, at Wick on the 19th. Holt had two on April 13th as did Penorchard Meadow on the 19th. Bredon Hill had three on April 18th with five here on the 20th, 25th and also on May 3rd. Both Breach Farm, north of Romsley, and Clent Hills had three on April 22nd. Ripple Pits had two on May 1st as had Malvern west beacon on the 6th. Barnett Brook had six (including two Greenland species) on May 2nd when Woodrow had two and Wassell Grove had three on the 5th. One was at Holt on July 23rd. Clifton upon Teme had three on August 26th whilst Upton Warren had two females on the 28th. A Teme Valley migration watch had two on August 31st and in the Malvern Hills, there were two on Black Hill on the 28th and three on North Hill on September 7th. Wild Goose NR had two on September 6th as did Clifton Pits on the 23rd on which date there were four at Timberhonger. In October, Bredon Hill had two on the 7th as did Malvern - Summer Hill on the 10th with singles at North Hill on the 20th and 22nd. Staffs The first two arrivals were at Berry Hill on March 13th with two more at Whittington on 15th. Later sightings in March were singles at Chasewater Res, Gibbet Wood and Whittington on 18th, Readyleech Green on 25th, Crossplains on 26th and Gailey Res on 30th. A poor spring passage meant the only double-figure counts were at Berry Hill with 12 on 16th, 22 on 18th, 10 on 26th and 28th and at Whitmore - Bent Lane with 15 on 25th and 11 on 28th. In May, Berry Hill logged 27 on 2nd, 13 on 3rd and 18 on 4th with the last spring birds at Middleton Lakes on 16th and Gun Hill on 20th. Two pairs fledged three and one young in the Knotbury area, along with another agitating female suggesting a third territory and a pair were seen at Dovedale Castle which might have been breeders. The first return passage bird was logged at Bateswood CP on July 27th with the next six at Blithfield Res on August 3rd. Other August sightings were at Berry Hill (throughout the month peaking at eight on 23rd), Blithfield Res (throughout the month peaking at five on 24th), Branston GP (two), Chasewater Res, Crossplains, I54 (five), Iverley Park Farm, Middleton Lakes and Whitemoor Haye. In September birds were seen at 17 sites, the best being eight at Blithfield Res and six at Essington Hall Farm on 5th and three at Bobbington and Whittington on 17th. The last birds in October were at Wedgwood Monument on 6th, Doxey Marshes on 16th, Berry Hill on 17th and Chasewater Res and Crossplains on 18th. W Mid A poor year by recent standards with less than 30 reports in total. Spring passage was delayed due no doubt to the cold spring, and it was mid-April before most sites encountered any birds. Clayhanger Marsh saw its first and only record on April 19th, with four at Copt Heath on April 25th, one at Eastcote on April 25th, five at Hockley Heath on April 22nd. At Lutley Wedge there was a single on April 7th with a further five sightings culminating with

191 three on May 5th. Marsh Lane NR had a good spring with the first on April 20th with two the following day, there were several subsequent sightings the last of which was two males on May 10th. There was a single bird at Marston Green on April 7th with another single at Netherton Res on May 2nd and eight in the Sandwell Valley on April 19th. The majority of autumn records came from Sutton Park NNR with the first on August 11th followed by one on August 20th, 21st and 28th and finally three on September 5th. The only other autumn records came from Goscote Valley on August 21st and lastly one Sandwell Valley on September 23rd.

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorhoa Scarce passage migrant. Warks One near Barcheston on April 14th showed characteristics of this race, and a week later a pair were on sheep pasture at Stoneton on 21st. In May, a minimum of four were at Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth on 1st, a pair were at Milcote on 3rd and a male was on the Fenny Compton Hills on 6th. Worcs A bird showing characteristics of this race was at Walton Hill on April 21st, two were at Barnett Brook on May 2nd with five, three males, at Bredon Hill on the 12th. W Mid After last year’s ten individuals this year there was just a single record, which was of two birds showing the characteristics of leucorhoa at Castle Hills on April 27th.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus Frequent resident in north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Rare elsewhere. Amber-listed Worcs Four were regularly reported at Wyre Forest - Dowles Brook from early in the year. As usual, the River Teme was a stronghold for the species in the county with reports from Shelsley Beauchamp, Shelsley Kings, Stanford on Teme and The Standbatches with birds singing in February, March and October. One was at the Knapp and Papermill on February 18th. On the , three were at Ninevah on April 29th with four here on May 13th. In September, one was reported from the River Severn at Bewdley on the Dipper, Knypersley, Steve Seal 17th. Staffs Birds were reported from 22 locations during the year (25 last year) in the North Staffs Moors, or close by, other than one at Biddulph Grange CP on June 13th, a successful breeding pair at Dimmingsdale, one at Harper’s Gate on January 23rd, two at Oakamoor on March 11th and a pair at Trentham Gardens throughout the year. Breeding was confirmed at Consall CP, Dimmingsdale, Dovedale Castle, Knotbury and Milldale and probably occurred at Back Forest Farm and Toadhole Bridge - Colwich. Generally recorded as ones or twos, maximum counts were eight along Dovedale on December 25th and three at Gradbach on March 24th.

192 House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant to very common, though much declined, resident. Red-listed Warks There were two triple-figure counts, both from Fenny Compton. On August 23rd 100 were feeding on barley stubble, increasing to 150 on September 10th. Flocks or counts of 30 to 80 were made at: Alcester, Barcheston, Coughton Fields, , , Harborough Magna, Harbury, Hodnell, Leamington Spa, Napton Res, Oversley Green, Saxon Mill - Warwick, Southam, Warwick Racecourse and Wishaw. Birds were seen on three dates at Brandon, the first on the reserve since 2014. No breeding counts were received. Worcs Five young successfully fledged from a clutch of six at Bodenham Arboretum. At Lower Moor, 12 pairs bred in a box at Lower End Farm whilst six pairs bred at Wick - Grange Farm. Once again this year, several birds were observed catching bees from a roof nest at Lower End Farm. Counts of more than 50 were regular at Pershore - Avon Meadows through the year including January 11th – 55, February 1st – 77, May 3rd – 60, August 23rd – 100 and November 22nd – 70. Amongst many double-figure counts received were 50 around Lower End Farm in July/August, a loose flock of 35 post-breeding birds a Birlingham in July and a flock of 30 from Clifton upon Teme on September 4th. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Alrewas 29 9 33 48 9 28 27 22 4 - - 19 Berry Hill Fields - 108 - - 5 17 105 270 - - - 88 Burton-on-Trent - 7 20 10 21 25 24 8 - - - - Coal Brook, Hales - 10 5 5 30 - 11 10 2 - - 30 Doxey Marshes 16 25 35 20 12 12 14 65 35 29 13 40 Glascote - - 25 22 31 24 16 7 23 18 3 18 Stoneydelph - 19 30 37 36 34 47 24 13 26 9 14 Tittesworth Res 16 16 12 14 13 12 16 15 14 10 17 24 Weston Jones 8 15 10 12 23 16 26 42 20 - - -

Other sites with significant counts were Cheddleton (32), Cresswell (34), Gibbetts Wood (25), Gothersley (50), Gunstone (25), Little Iverley Covert (30), Preston Hill (40), River Sow Meadows (40), Sharpley Heath (58) and Tyrley (40). W Mid Birds were recorded from 129 locations with 66 of these being during the breeding season (69 sites in 2017). However, breeding information is sketchy, but if one assumes the rise in numbers in early summer can be attributed to fledglings, then it was a successful breeding season at many locations. At Marsh Lane NR three pairs successfully fledged young with a further two pairs reported at the Kennels south of the reserve. High counts include 80 at Kingfisher CP on January 8th, 52 at Wood Street - Stourbridge on February 27th, 111 at Amblecote on April 3rd, 50 at Boldmere - Sutton Coldfield on 8th and 46 at Parkes Hall Res on July 4th.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common, though declining, resident. Scarce to uncommon in Worcs. Red-listed Warks Confirmed breeding pairs were indicated only at: Farnborough (seven), Fenny Compton (seven), Lower Tysoe (eight again at Sun Rising Natural Burial Ground), Priors Hardwick (two) and Wormleighton (three). As noted in 2017, the population continues to decline throughout the south-east and for the first time there were no breeding records from Knightcote JJB. Small numbers of no more than four were also present during the nesting season at Barnacle, Draycote (Water and village), Gaydon, Tredington and Willey. At other times of the year, double-figure counts were made only at Draycote, Fenny Compton, Willey and Wormleighton, with a high of 20 in game cover at the latter on February 8th. Wintering

193 numbers were well down at Draycote this year, with a maximum of 12 on 2nd (cf. 50 in March 2017). The best count in the second winter period was seven at Willey on Christmas Day. Away from the eastern Feldon, one or two were noted during this time at Barcheston, Coleman’s Hill, Monks Kirby, Studley and the Avon Valley south of Warwick. There were no records all year from the north of the county. Worcs The only acceptable record in the county this year is for one photographed and sound recorded during a migration watch at Clifton upon Teme on August 22nd JSp. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Belvide Res 4 8 25 30 12 9 18 50 25 30 15 19 Whitemoor Haye 20 6 30 p - p - 80 30 - 5 - Whitmore Bent Lane - 12 12 15 p - - - - - 6 25

Breeding was confirmed at Belvide Res, Blithfield Res and Whitemoor Haye and probably also occurred at Camp Farm, Elkstone, Preston Hill and Whitmore - Bent Lane. The only additional double-figure count was 13 at Lower Foxley on March 7th.

House Sparrow x Tree Sparrow Staffs A hybrid adult was present at Ingestre from January through July.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Amber-listed Warks The breeding territory counts made at Brandon (a minimum of 12), Ladywalk NR (at least nine) and Middleton Lakes (10 territories) were all comparable with those made in 2017. The highest count was 30, at Watchbury - Barford on February 17th and Harbury on March 7th. Worcs Two nests were successful at Bodenham Arboretum with clutches of five fledging five and four young. At Wick, a total of 43 were caught and ringed from hedgerows through the year. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 12 on January25th and 15 on March 15th with double- figure counts through the year whilst Burlish Top had ten on March 5th. Staffs In the breeding season, there were 20 birds at Berry Hill and 12 at Westport Lake. The only other sites with double-figure counts, in Dunnock, Knypersley, Steve Seal February, were Doxey Marshes (11) and I54 (12). W Mid With nearly 1,700 entries via BirdTrack from 160 locations most of which were during the breeding season, this species would appear on the face-of-it to be prospering. However, at Marsh Lane NR there was a small decrease where the estimated 23 singing males was a drop of four on 2017. The highest counts were at Allesley Park (16), Boldmere - Sutton Coldfield (20), Kingshurst (13) and Sutton Park NNR (15).

194 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Uncommon to frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Continues to decline. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 3rd (82) to October 12th (82) 8-year average: April 2nd (1 day earlier) to October 9th (3 days earlier) First arrival: April 4th; Blithfield Res and Middleton Lakes (Staffs) Last departure: October 9th; Draycote (Warks)

Warks Breeding pairs (singles unless stated) were located at: Austrey (three), Barnacle, Caldecote, Cawston (two), Farnborough (four), Fenny Compton (19, cf. 21 in 2017), Honington (two), Lighthorne, Salford Priors GP (two) and Wormleighton (16, cf. 12 in 2017). Also noted in the breeding season at around a further 36 sites. The first spring arrival was at Brandon on April 5th, followed by further individuals at Draycote and the Fenny Compton Hills on 7th. Birds started being seen daily from 12th onwards. Typically, Draycote had Yellow Wagtail, Draycote, Theo de Clermont the majority of the largest spring gatherings, with 11 on 9th, 24th and May 1st, although 12 at Birchmoor on 12th was the highest. Numbers elsewhere were disappointing, although up to 10 were in the Curdworth/Wishaw area on 16th. An interesting record was a pair drinking from a puddle in the middle of the village of Shotteswell on June 30th, perhaps a reflection on the lack of water in the surrounding countryside during a spell of warm and dry weather. The best counts of the post-breeding season were 35 over Hartshill Hayes CP on August 24th and 35 at Salford Priors GP on 26th. Draycote had good numbers between mid-August and mid-September, peaking at 31 on September 3rd. Maxima elsewhere included 10 at Wormleighton Res on September 3rd, at least 20 feeding amongst cattle at Whitacre Heath NR on 7th and 12 at Warmington on 8th. There were three October records, at Ladywalk NR on 8th and over Hartshill Hayes CP and at Draycote on 9th. Worcs There was a slight increase in the number of reporting sites this year at 25 (22 in 2017) but numbers continue to fall and Upton Warren had its poorest year with sightings on just 11 dates. Singles were found at both Clifton Pits and Holt on April 7th with one at Camp Lane Pits on the 8th. Clifton Pits had the highest spring passage with 15 on April 11th, 25 on the 13th and 18 on the 17th. Ripple Pits had two on April 15th, 17th and 27th with other April sightings at John Bennett NR, Lower Moor and Upton Warren. One was at Lickhill Quarry on May 19th and also on June 2nd. At least three pairs bred in arable crops at Wick fledging at least six young. Four pairs bred at Lower Broadheath with adults carrying food on June 15th. Birds were present at Bittell Reservoirs through the summer with possible breeding. A juvenile was at Upton Warren Moors on July 15th and could have been locally bred. Two young fledged from successful breeding at Ryall and a female plus two juveniles was at Clifton Pits on August 13th. Ripple Pits had five on August 5th whilst Clifton Pits had eight on the 15th, 14 on the 22nd and 18 on the 25th. Eight were on the dam at Upper Bittell Res on August 18th with three still here on September 10th. Seven flew over John Bennett NR on August 21st with three over Upton Warren Flashes on the 26th and five over on the 27th. There were two at Holt on August 7th and at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 23rd with three at Stanford on Teme on the 29th. A migration watch in the Teme Valley had one on August 22nd, two on the 31st, one on September

195 1st, seven on the 2nd, two on the 3rd, one on the 4th and one on the 10th. Other September reports came from north of Hurcutt on the 4th, Upton Warren on the 8th, Bittell Reservoirs on the 10th, Longdon Marsh on the 12th, Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on the 15th and Ryall Pits on the 22nd. The latest visitor was at Throckmorton Landfill on September 30th. Staffs Year 2006 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Pairs 35-42 21-23 31-33 34-36 24-28 54-57 35-36 31-39 22 44-46 28-30 10-14 20-22

Breeding was confirmed at Doxey Marshes where two pairs fledged nine young, Middleton Lakes where a pair held a territory, Norbury with two pairs and Whitemoor Haye with at least two pairs feeding young in the nest. The first arrivals were at Blithfield Res and Middleton Lakes on April 4th, then Belvide Res, Branston GP and Doxey Marshes on 6th with further April sightings from just 14 sites (26 last year) with the highest counts being nine at Blithfield Res on 15th, 13 at Whitemoor Haye on 18th with 10 there the following day. In May, there were one or two birds at 22 sites along with four at Hixon Airfield on 3rd and six at Lower Foxley on 5th. In August the best counts were 12 at Belvide Res on 13th and 29 on 24th, 13 at Blithfield Res on 5th, 20 on 7th, 18 on 19th, 15 on 29th and 20 on 31st, up to 28 at Branston GP between 19th and 27th, 12 at Gailey Res on 11th, 30 at Penkridge STW on 12th, 20 at Tucklesholme NR on 19th and 12 at Whitemoor Haye on 14th. Good numbers continued into early September with 20 at Branston GP on 1st with 12 on 6th and 22 on 9th, 50 at Blithfield Res on 4th with 18 on 5th, 13 on 6th, 20 on 8th and 40 at Penkridge on 4th. The last birds were at Blithfield Res on 22nd and two at Branston GP on 23rd. W Mid 2018 was below average with only 25 records via BirdTrack plus a series of records from Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley. There were no breeding records with just a single pair present during the breeding season that were though not to have bred. What passage there was peaked in the last week of April, though the earliest arrival was in the Sandwell Valley on April 5th, this was followed by a further five records with a maximum of four on April 27th. Spring records were as follows, one at Castle Hills on April 27th, singles at Lutley Wedge on April 21st and May 4th, Marsh Lane NR noted their first bird on April 20th with birds seen on a further ten occasions through to May 5th, with a maximum of three at any given time. Mercote Mill saw its first on April 23rd with five further sightings with two on June 15th. A single was seen Meriden on April 16th with two on April 30th. A single was seen at Netherton Res on April 21st, with four at Sutton Park NNR on April 28th. Autumn passage was poor with three at Norton on August 22nd, three in the Sandwell Valley on August 29th followed by singles on September 8th and 20th, two in Sutton Park NNR on August 20th with seven on August 21st then singles recorded on several occasions through to August 29th.

Blue-headed x Yellow Wagtail “Channel Wagtail “ Staffs A male was at Whitemoor Haye on April 22nd TPe and another at Whitmore - Bent Lane from 26th–28th PJo.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Red-listed Warks Confirmednesting pairs were restricted to: Baddesley Clinton, Coombe CP, Duke End (Maxstoke), Earlswood Lakes, Packington Hall, and Shrewley Tunnel (two). Birds were also present during the breeding season at an additional 32 sites. Outside this period, the highest counts came from Coleman’s Hill, with six flying over to the south on September 10th and another five passing through on 24th. Five were also at Draycote on October 1st and 5th, and Shustoke Res on 18th.

196 Worcs A pair at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged five young from a clutch of six. In Kemerton village, a pair nested in a stone wall by the brook, an adult with food was seen at Fladbury on May 20th and breeding was confirmed at Malvern - Gullet Quarry. There were four at Wyre Forest - Dowles Brook on February 17th, seven on May 11th with a family party here on June 5th. Breeding season pairs were also reported from Bittell Reservoirs, Camp Lane Pits, Perry Wood, Shelsley Beauchamp, Spetchley Park and Stanford on Teme. A Teme Valley migration watch recorded ten from September 2nd to the 15th. There were five at Redditch - Oakenshaw on September 22nd with four at Pershore - Avon Meadows on November 1st and three at Ripple Pits on the 24th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at 13 sites this year (22, 6, 9 and 11 in the past four): Bearda, Belvide Res, Cannock Chase, Chasewater Res, Cheddleton/Consall Valley, Dimmingsdale, Lichfield - Stowe Pool, Middle Mayfield, Milldale, Radial Park, Shugborough ParkFarm, Wettonmill and Wolseley Park and probably occurred at a further 10 sites. The total of 23 sites compares with 42, 22, 23, 30 and 25 in the past five years. The highest count was six birds at Brindley Ford on September 23rd. Autumn visible migration produced just 12 birds flying south compared with 28, 25, 29, 33 and 17 in the past five years. W Mid Birds were recorded at a total of 70 sites (cf. 74 in 2017) and during the breeding season at 30 locations (cf. 35 in 2017). Breeding was confirmed or strongly suspected at Coventry, Eastcote, Kingshurst, Mercote Mill, Olton Mere, Ravenshaw and Sutton Park NNR. There were three pairs present on the stretch of the Birmingham & Canal between Gravelly Hill Junction and the City Centre. Apart from family parties there were no counts of more than three at any location.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks Early in the year good numbers were roosting in Warwick town centre, with 150 in Market Square on January 1st and 270 on February 22nd. Other high counts in the first winter period included 150 at Abbots Salford on January 1st and 134 at Ailstone on February 11th. Counts of feeding flocks during the year included 42 on a ploughed field at Broom on March 21st, 15 at Great Pool, Packington Park on 29th, 50 on Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes on August 18th, 20 at Forest of Arden GC on September 25th, 25 at Bidford-on-Avon on 27th and 28 on a sports field at Fenny Compton on October 3rd. In autumn at Coleman’s Hill, 231 passed over to the south and west, with a high of 29 on October 11th. The first large gathering of the post-breeding season was 100 at Astley on September 28th, and later in the year counts of 200 gathering to roost were made at Abbots Salford on October 16th and Stratford-upon-Avon on November 25th. A tailless bird was at Wellesbourne on January 1st. Minimal nesting records were submitted. Worcs Three pairs bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum with a clutch of six fledging five young and two clutches of five fledging five and four young. There were 48 at Lower Moor river meadows on January 3rd feeding on the edge of floodwater whilst Malvern - Wood Street had 70 on the 11th and 50 on the 26th with 40 at Camp Lane Pits on the 28th. Tenbury Wells STWs had at least 40 on February 7th with 21 at Lickhill Quarry on April 1st and 25 at Clifton Pits on the 17th. A Teme Valley migration watch recorded 114 between September 3rd and October 17th and there were 20 on rooftops at Stanford on Teme on September 26th. In November, Dobbins Oak had 40 on the 9th with 21 at Bevere Island on the 17th. Strensham service station on the M5 held 75 on December 9th whilst Holt had an impressive 120 on the 27th and there were 38 at Wagon Wheel Lane flashes on the 31st.

197 Staffs Autumn Visible Migration Year 2012 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 574 693 1033 523 390 361 281

Larger counts in the first winter period were lower than last with just 25 the best in January at I54. In February a roost count at Lichfield - Beacon Park produced 100 birds and there were also 50 at Endon STW and 30 at I54; in March the best counts were 54 at Sutton, 48 at Endon STW and 40 at Audley WTW. Breeding was confirmed 11 sites and may also have occurred at one further site (compared with 33 total sites last year). Autumn flock counts were also much lower than last year with 22 at Blithfield Res in August and 100 at Penkridge in September the best. Autumn visible migration was also the worst on record. In the last three months numbers increased considerably with 250 at Branston GP and 200 at Keele - Lymes Road in October, 200 at Branston GP in November and December and 100 at Cheddleton/Consall Valley in December. W Mid There was little change in status from last year with birds recorded from 80 localities. Although there was little breeding information, birds were widely encountered during the breeding season at most sites. High counts included 152 at Castle Hills, presumably going to roost at Birmingham Airport. The best count was an impressive 451 that roosted in Halesowen Town Centre on January 7th.

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks The first of another rather thin spring passage was at Draycote on April 7th. Further records came there on another four dates, although six on 30th was the only count of more than two. The top site was Brandon with eight sightings, including a high of four on 29th. Small numbers also visited: Bidford Grange GC, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton, Knightcote, Ladywalk NR, Milcote, Morton Bagot, Packington Park, Priors Hardwick, Salford Priors GP and Wishaw. The last of the period came at Brandon on May 13th. On return White Wagtail, Draycote, Bob Hazell passage, one was at Ladywalk NR on September 5th, a female was at Fenny Compton on 27th and two late first-winter plumaged birds were at Napton Res on October 31st. Worcs Clifton Pits had three on April 5th, two on the 11th, 13 on the 13th, four on the 17th and two on the 23rd. There were two at Grimley on April 13th and also on the 16th. Ripple Pits had seven on April 17th and a male on May 20th whilst Upton Warren had three on April 17th, two at the Flashes and one at the Moors. In late summer, John Bennett NR had a male from July 24th to August 12th RAP. Staffs The first spring arrivals were six at Endon STW on March 30th. In April, birds were seen at Belvide Res (30+ with 11 on 9th), Blithfield Res (34 with 18 on 15th), Branston GP (26 with 14 on 9th, 17th–18th), Chasewater Res, Croxden Quarry (nine), Cuckoo Bank, Doxey Marshes (eight), I54 (four), Lower Foxley (six), Middleton Lakes (two) and Whitmore - Bent

198 Lane (two). In early May the last birds were eight at Belvide Res on 1st, one at Doxey Marshes, two at Uttoxeter Quarry and three at Whitmore - Bent Lane on 2nd, five at Belvide Res and one at Branston and Doxey Marshes on 3rd and two at Whitmore - Bent Lane on 4th. W Mid The only record came from Edgbaston Res on May 6th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage, fairly common in winter. Amber-listed Warks Breeding pairs were found at Compton Verney (three), Hillmorton Locks (one), Lighthorne Quarry (three, cf. five in 2017) and Salford Priors GP (one, cf. seven in 2017). Birds were also present during the nesting season near Bedworth Nook, Ryton Pools CP and Warwick Racecourse. Wintering flocks during the first winter period were mainly modest, the exception 110 at Milcote on February 26th and 200 at Braggington on 27th. The peak day for March spring passage was 25th, with 110 moving north in three hours at Salford Priors GP and 252 over Saxon Mill (Warwick). Small numbers were still passing through into late April and early May. Return passage got underway early on August 8th, when 12 were at Ladywalk NR. The first good numbers came in mid-September, with 140 at Warwick Racecourse on 14th and 150 at Chase Lane, Kenilworth on 16th. In the north, 661 passed over Hartshill Hayes CP on 22nd, and other counts of between 100 and 150 were made before the months end at Coventry Airport, Morton Bagot, Salford Priors GP and Shustoke Res. Concerted watching of Coleman’s Hill between late August and mid-November produced impressive results. The first decent count was 89 on the morning of September 19th, followed by 554 passing over during a three-hour spell on the morning of 21st. The 22nd saw an even bigger number, with 1612 through to the south west. Triple-figures were noted on a number of other days before the end of the month and into October, with nine on November 10th bringing the final autumn total up to 4,974 DRi. Away from Coleman’s Hill the only other three figure counts in October were 180 at Salford Priors GP on October 7th and 21st. Wintering flocks in November and December were as usual quite small (mainly around 20-35), apart from one of 74 at Ailstone on November 26th. Worcs Pershore - Avon Meadows had 36 on January 4th with 30 at Malvern Wood Street on the 11th. Bibbey’s Hollow had 20 on March 11th, Wassell Grove had 48 on the 13th and there was a late winter movement of 133 over Upton Warren on the 25th. Ripple Pits had 60 on March 18th with 80 here on April 2nd. Lickhill Quarry had 26 on April 1st whilst Uffmoor Farm had 20 on the 9th and there were 35 at Lower Park on the 11th. At least 20 pairs bred on Bredon Hill summit with 45 birds in the area on August 29th. Clifton upon Teme had 65 on September 9th with 45 at Westwood Pool on the 16th, 30 at Lower Moor on the 20th, 50 at Lower Park on the 21st and an impressive 500 at Meadow Pipit, Draycote, Bob Hazell Timberhonger on the 22nd. Upton Warren had 100 over the Moors on September 3rd with 138 over on the 23rd. There was a substantial movement in the Teme Valley in September where a migration watch recorded 1646 in the month including 767 on the 22nd. John Bennett NR had 120 migrants over on both

199 October 1st and also the 10th with 150 on nearby Bredon Hill on the 7th on which date there were 50 at Evesham Greenhill. Bittell Reservoirs had 25 on October 20th whilst Malvern - North Hill had 25 on November 6th. Lower Moor river meadows had 40 on December 16th with 20+ at Malvern - Mill Lane on the 24th. Staffs Larger flocks in the first winter period were, in January, 45 at Doxey Marshes and 30 at Black Bank; in February 35 at I54 and 26 at Black Bank; in March 44 at Berry Hill, 41 at Middle Mayfield and 30 at I54. The largest April flock was 33 at Endon STW on 15th. Birds were heard singing from April 5th onwards and territories noted on the North Staffs Moors along with Cannock Chase, Chasewater Res, Marshes Hill, Silverdale CP and Wetley Moor. Autumn Visible Migration Year 2008 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 4,800 2,800 7,500 17,200 17,200 14,310 22,290 18,660 15,100 10,880 12,210

Visible migration was spread from September 3rd until November 8th, with peak passage extending from September 14th through to October 18th. The best counts were 1,422 through Berry Hill on September 20th, 2,284 over Berry Hill and 1,482 over Black Bank on 22nd and 602 over Black Bank on 23rd. The best counts of grounded birds in September were 150 at Branston GP on 11th and 100 at Uttoxeter Quarry on 22nd; in October 100 at Branston GP on 20th; in November 75 at Blithfield Res on 10th and 110 at Radford Meadows on 24th and in December, 125 at Blithfield Res on 8th. W Mid Once again birds were present during the breeding season at Sutton Park NNR, although no evidence of breeding was forthcoming. During the first winter period small numbers were noted at 11 locations. Flocks of more than 20 were noted towards the end of March at Lutley Wedge, probably relating to passage birds. As is usual there were far more birds during the autumn with 20+ at Marsh Lane NR on September 23rd, 65 in Sutton Park NNR on 29th and 30 at Sedgley Beacon on October 3rd. During the second winter period, birds were recorded from 12 sites, with 30+ at Marsh Lane NR on December 22nd the only count of note.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Uncommon to common, though declining, summer resident and passage migrant, becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and western parts of the Region. Red-listed

Long-term average: April 7th (81) to September 25th (79) 8-year average: April 1st (1 day earlier) to October 2nd (7 days later) First arrival: April 4th; Ladywalk (Warks) Last departure: October 19th; Endon STW (Staffs)

Warks The first spring migrant was at Ladywalk NR on April 4th, one of six in the county before the end of the month. Birds were also noted at Ladywalk on two further dates, with others flying over Flecknoe, Fenny Compton and the final one of the period at Lighthorne Quarry on 28th. Autumn passage was stronger, with the majority coming from the north and east of the county. The first were three at Astley on August 14th, although two at Hartshill Hayes CP on 17th was the only other report of more than one. The only sightings from elsewhere in the county were at Salford Priors GP on September 8th and 9th (two singles) and Saxon Mill - Warwick on 16th. The final bird of the year was at Napton Res on 18th. The total of 18 records keeps up the recent trend of above average numbers. Worcs Birds were recorded at 15 sites across the county with the first recorded being two at Malverns - Midsummer Hill on April 10th. Birds were then recorded frequently throughout the summer. A study in the Wyre Forest found a minimum of 14 singing males, with a maximum

200 day count of 13 individuals recorded on May 15th. The Malvern Hills recorded a minimum of five males. A single singing male was recorded at Perry Wood on May 10th. A strong autumn passage saw at least 29 pass through the Teme Valley during August and September, with a maximum of 12 on 22nd August. The final bird was recorded on September 29th, when one migrated through the Teme Valley. Staffs Breeding territories were located at Back Forest (two), Cannock Chase (39; 105, 55, 40 and 37 in the last four years), Enville GC, Forest Wood (two), Gentleshaw Common, Goldsitch Moss, Hanchurch Woods (1–11; eight–nine, nine and two in past three years), Hawksmoor NR, Hen Cloud, Highgate Common (three), Kinver Edge, Maer Hills (four, three last year), Oakamoor, Shoal Hill, Swallow Moss and Swineholes Wood. The first arrivals were three at Cannock Chase - Glacial Boulder and one at Swineholes Wood on April 14th with a general influx thereafter. The only spring passage bird away from breeding sites was at Middleton Lakes on April 21st. Autumn passage commenced with a bird over Basford on July 22nd, then Belvide Res, four at Chasewater Res Tree Pipit, Highgate Common, Hughie King and West End - Stoke on August 11th. Further August birds flying south were noted at Belvide Res (three), Berry Hill (14), Branston GP, Kingswood Pool, Middleton Lakes (two) and Silverdale CP. September birds consisted of one over Gailey Res on 1st, two over Berry Hill on 4th, Cuckoo Bank on 8th, two over Berry Hill on 13th with one on 14th and Keele - Lymes Road on 25th. The last, a very late bird, flew over Endon STW on October 19th. W Mid The only spring record was a bird over Meriden Shafts on May 1st. Autumn passage was poor apart from seven at Sedgley Beacon on August 29th. Others, mainly singles, were present at Sandwell Valley on August 23rd (two, with one on September 27th – the last of the year), Parkes Hall Res on August 29th, Marsh Lane NR on 31st and Netherton Res on September 1st.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

Long-term average: October 24th (28) to April 13th (27) 8-year average: October 25th (1 day earlier) to April 2nd (11 days earlier) First arrival: September 26th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs) Last departure: April 15th; Doxey Marshes (Staffs)

Warks After a blank year in 2017, records came from two sites. The only bird in the first half of the year was at Draycote on April 9th and 10th TdeC. In autumn, one was at Draycote on October 30th TMa, TDe and two were at Morton Bagot on November 4th REH. Worcs This was a good year in the county with three reports in the second winter period. The first was found at Camp Lane Pits on November 5th BRS with another over the canal at Stourvale Marshes on the 6th SCol. In December, one was found by the floods at Wagon Wheel Lane Pits on the 27th PHop and obligingly stayed into the New Year.

201 Staffs In the first winter period, up to six were present at Doxey Marshes until April 15th and a similar number were there in the second winter period from September 26th many observers.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks Not unsurprisingly Draycote monopolised the records, including the only spring sighting on March Water Pipit, Draycote, Theo de Clermont 18th and 19th. Autumn was much more productive, particularly October, with birds recorded on 15 dates, including a maximum of six on 16th. Three were also noted on two dates in November. Further autumn birds were at Napton Res on October 15th, flying over Middleton Lakes on 18th and Hams Hall on 21st and at Brandon on 27th. Worcs The only sighting in the first half of the year was for a single bird at Clifton Pits on March 12th. One was on the causeway at Camp Lane Pits on October 8th and re- found on the 15th and 16th. At Ripple Pits, one was at the south lake in the afternoon of October 13th. Rock Pipit, Draycote, Bob Hazell Three were at Upton Warren Flashes on October 16th and 17th. In November, one flew over Upton Warren Moors on November 5th with the final sighting of the year at Grimley on December 27th. Staffs A poor year with no spring migrants and just a few autumn birds – the first at Belvide Res on October 10th then Blithfield Res on 11th, Belvide Res on 13th, two at Blithfield Res on 14th, Middleton Lakes on 18th, Blithfield Res on 27th, Belvide Res on November 10th and Chasewater Res on December 27th. W Mid The only record this year came from Sandwell Valley on the typical date of October 10th.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Green-listed Warks Two of the very few breeding details received were six singing males at Brandon on May 13th and 11 territories at Middleton Lakes. In the first winter period numbers feeding with the huge mixed finch and bunting flock in game cover at Wormleighton peaked at 750 on February 8th. Other good size counts were 100 at Southfields Farm, Coleshill on January 17th, 200-250 in the Dunnington/Salford Priors GP area in February and 105 at Ballard’s

202 Green on March 17th. Visible autumn passage in the south extended from late September to mid-November. During this period, notable records were 120 grounded migrants at Fern Hill, Wormleighton on October 17th, 183 flying through to the west at Draycote in three hours on 25th, 85 over Saxon Mill - Warwick on November 2nd and 497 over Coleman’s Hill on the morning of 3rd. A pure albino was in a tree at Shustoke Res for a few minutes on October 18th, having arrived with a party of other migrant Chaffinches. Worcs Three clutches, one of five and two of four at Bodenham Arboretum successfully hatched and fledged all young. Wassell Grove had 250 on January 5th, 126 on the 22nd, 90 on the 26th and 70 on March 9th. There was a flock of 50 at Defford Airfield around a game crop on January 8th and Clifton upon Teme had a flock of 180 on the 11th. Wick had 420 on a winter feed crop on January 10th, 400 on the 16th and 95 on February 26th. Shenstone had 700 on January 13th and 120 on the 17th and on February 3rd. A Stoke Bliss garden had 32 on January 16th with 200 at Malvern - Wood Street on the 26th and 70 at Common Farm on the 30th. Also on January 30th, there were 360 around a derelict sunflower crop at Naunton Beauchamp with 120 here on February 6th. Bewdley had 100 on the riverbanks on February 8th with 60 at Kemerton Lake NR on February 13th, 153 around an old muck pile at Abberley on March 1st and 100 at Bevere Island on the 10th. In the autumn, Bredon Hill had 57 on October 16th whilst Redditch - Oakenshaw had 57 on the 17th and 47 on the 22nd. Little Comberton had 36 on October 18th with 63 at Upper Hollowfield on the 27th. There were 100 at Lineholt on November 25th with 60 at Kyre on December 7th and 30 in a Stoke Bliss garden on the 13th. Also in December, 150 were feeding on a game bird crop at Wick on the 19th with 50 at Stanford on a sunflower crop on the 29th. Staffs Autumn Visible Migration Year 2007 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 1,068 678 1,300 2,825 3,722 1,420 2,150 2,276 1,391 561 3,352 3,166

In the first winter period the best January counts were 40 at Audley Meadows on3rdand Ingestre on 5th; in February 100 at Gailey Res on 2nd and 50 at Aqualate Mere on 12th and in March 50 at Aqualate Mere on 17th and Ingestre on 21st. During the breeding season there were 23 territories at Berry Hill (up from 17, 16, 15, 14, 15 and 17 in the previous six years), 12 at Coombes Valley and 12+ at Tittesworth Res. The best visible migration counts were 267 over Berry Hill on October 20th and 164 over Black Bank on 27th. There were 48 birds counted at Tittesworth Res on September 11th; in November 70 at Crossplains and 50 at Whitmore - Bent Lane and in December 120 at Burnt Wood, 100 at Whitemoor Haye and 85 at Crossplains and Gibbetts Wood Quarry. W Mid This species was recorded from 154 locations via BirdTrack and, of those, 98 were during the breeding season. At Marsh Lane NR seven pairs were present with a further three at Siden Hill Wood. Elsewhere little breeding information was forthcoming. The highest counts were of 70 at Marsh Lane NR on January 1st and 250 at Lutley Wedge on January 5th with 126 on 22nd. Counts of c.30 came from Allesley, Berkswell, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park NNR.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers.

Long-term average: October 10th (83) to April 21st (82) 8-year average: October 2nd (8 days earlier) to April 29th (8 days later) First arrival: October 7th; Belvide Res and Black Bank (Staffs), Teme Valley (Worcs), Sutton Park NNR (WMid) Last departure: May 5th; Belvide Res (Staffs)

203 Warks In the first winter period impressive numbers were feeding with a huge mixed flock of finches and buntings in a field of game cover crops at Wormleighton. In January numbers increased rapidly from only eight on 14th to 150 on 27th, before rising to a high of 250 on February 8th. Numbers were down to 40 by 24th and had all gone by early March JJB. Records came from a further 32 sites, although counts were not surprisingly much more modest. At Ballard’s Green, birds were present regularly from late February, with a high of 14 on March 28th, and 13 Brambling, Baggeridge CP, Kevin Wardlaw still present as late as April 12th. The only other counts of more than two were five flying over Ladywalk NR on January 5th, at least five at Warwick Racecourse on February 16th and four at Little Shrewley on March 29th. The final record of the period was one at on April 16th. The first to arrive back in autumn were on October 8th, when three were at both Hartshill Hayes CP and Ladywalk NR. In the second winter period birds were less widespread both in terms of locations and numbers, many records relating to flyovers. Maximums were five over Brandon on 17th, nine over Hartshill Hayes CP on 18th and 27 over Coleman’s Hill on November 3rd. Worcs There was a substantial increase in the number of reporting locations this year at 45 (26 in 2017), particularly in the first winter period. Up to 25 were present in the Shenstone area from January to mid-February with 30 on February 17th. A Stoke Bliss garden had eight on January 22nd with an impressive 65 here on February 20th and 20 on March 8th. Naunton Beauchamp had ten on January 30th and 12 on February 6th feeding on a derelict sunflower crop with 30 at Wood Norton on the 8th in an old wheat crop. Shakenhurst had 12 with Chaffinches on February 27th and also on March 4th and there were ten at Wassell Grove on the 13th. In March 30 were at St Michaels, Tenbury Wells on the 12th. In April, three were at Bell Heath on the 7th, two were at Romsley on the 8th with eight at Stoke Bliss on the 8th and two here, including a singing male, on the 14th. Numbers were much lower in the second winter period. Two were reported in a Teme Valley migration watch on October 7th with four on the 17th. Redditch - Oakenshaw had seven on October 19th whilst Lickey Hills Twatling Road had five on the 30th with 12 here on November 20th. Nimmings Wood had six on November 6th and a Beech wood on Bredon Hill had ten on the 20th with 12 on December 2nd and 14 on the 22nd. Staffs In January, there were very few birds in the county, the best count being just three at Hanchurch Woods on 1st with one or two birds at nine other sites; in February Hanchurch hosted seven with one to three birds at nine other sites and in March Hanchurch again held the highest flock count of 15 with one to four birds at 14 other sites. Small numbers continued into April with 15 again at Hanchurch Woods and up to five at six other sites. The last birds in May were at Belvide Res: one on 3rd, two on 4th and the last one on 5th. The first returning birds were over Belvide Res and two over Black Bank on October 7th with visible migration being observed until December 4th totalling 263 birds, compared with 112, 46, 78, 65, 47, 43, 40 and 400 in the previous eight years. The best migration count was 64 over Black Bank on October 30th. The best counts grounded flocks in October were 30 at Hanchurch Woods on 22nd and 100 at Cannock Chase - Abraham’s Valley on 30th, these sites both holding 30 birds in November. In December there were 50 at Biddulph Grange CP, 35 at Burnt Wood, 200 at Cannock Chase and 40 at Rudyard Lake.

204 W Mid In a reversal of last year the vast majority of birds were seen in the first winter period with birds recorded from ten locations. Notable counts from this period and spring passage include eight at Marsh Lane NR on January 11th (where birds were noted on most days until early April) and ten heading north at Lutley Wedge on March 24th. Elsewhere, numbers dropped sharply in early-April with just four subsequent records, the last of these came from Sandwell Valley on 12th. It’s worth noting that the majority of these birds were located at or near feeding stations or in the case of Marsh Lane NR, a planted wild bird crop. The first autumn record was an impressive seven at Sutton Park NNR on October 7th with a series of records there to the months end. Elsewhere, singles were recorded at a further five locations with the only notable count being five at Reddings Road Park - Moseley on November 8th.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce to uncommon, but declining, resident. Warks Following the previous year’s remarkable autumn influx, January began with a bang, joint county record flocks being found at Compton Verney and Honington. At the former, 19 had been present in December 2017, but up to 22 were feeding on yew berries until mid-March JJB, RHo. At Honington, after the first was found on January 11th, numbers rose to a peak of 22 on 26th, with smaller counts persisting until the last three were seen on March 16th. The birds here frequented trees along the River Stour and nearby parkland at the western end of the village TMa, GJA et al. In the second half of February, birds were found at St Mary’s Churchyard, Studley, and although numbers were typically between four and eight, there was a high of 14 NDu, REH, CJL. Other reliable locations were Draycote Country Park, mainly one or two, but six on January 6th many observers, Ansley Hall, a high of three on 26th SMH, RWA and Bidford-on-Avon Churchyard, mainly one, but two on 30th CEH, CJL, MSp. Three were around Lea Marston Churchyard on 7th per CEH and six were at the eastern end of Whichford Wood on 30th TMa. Other occasional sightings of one or two came from Baddesley Clinton, Brandon, Friz Hill, Hartshill, Idlicote, Ladbroke, Ladywalk NR, Long Compton, Mancetter, Middleton Lakes, , Priory Park - Warwick, Upton House and Wolston. The vast majority had departed by the end of March, with the final records of one at Farnborough Park on April 3rd JJB, two at Walton Hall on 13th per CEH, one at Farnborough again on May 2nd JJB and the last of an amazing period, one in flight over Napton Hill on 10thper CEH. There was no suggestion of any of these birds staying on to breed. A more standard fare resumed in the autumn, with one over Hartshill Hayes CP on October 10th JBG, and another with a group of Chaffinches over Coleman’s Hill on 16th DRi. At the very end of the year, one was seen and heard in The Rides, Compton Verney on December 31st JJB. Worcs Birds from the 2017 autumn influx were still present in significant numbers from January to mid-April. In this period, reports were received from 40 locations in the county. More than 20 were regularly present at Bewdley - Jubilee Gardens with 25 on January 6th and 23 on March 28th. Upper Arley had ten+ in early January with up to eight at Kemerton Parkland from January to March. Croome Park had up to nine from January to mid-April and in the same period, Hawfinch, Draycote, Bob Hazell

205 Tardebigge had an almost continuous presence at St Bartholomew’s Church with 15 regularly reported. There were five at Eymore Wood on January 4th with 12 at Finstall Park on the 14th and also on the 20th. Five were found at both Shanklyn Pool on January 15th and also at Hodge Hill Farm on the 17th whilst Wyre Forest had eight on February 17th. Hunnington still had five on April 1st with six at Walton Hill on the 8th and singles at both Upton Warren and Tardebigge on the 15th. A pair were at a site in the Teme Valley on May 5th, but breeding activity is not known. In the autumn, one was seen over the Salwarpe Valley on October 20th with singles in the Wyre Forest on November 25th and also on December 9th. Staffs The influx of birds last year from continental Europe continued into the New Year with many of the flocks listed below appearing in churchyards. The best flock counts in January were 23 at Biddulph Grange CP, six at Keele, 20 at Kingsley with up to four birds at 13 other sites; in February 17 at Biddulph Grange CP, 45 at Blithfield Res, six at , 20 at Keele University, 10 at Kingsley with up to four birds at 10 other sites; in March 22 at Alton, 12 at Checkley, 20 at Keele, 12 at Kingsley, 25 at Longdon, 14 at Madeley and 15 at Trentham Gardens with up to five birds at seven other sites. In early April there were 15 at Trentham Gardens on 1st, 15 at Tutbury on 1st with 32 on 2nd and 52 on 3rd and 13 at Keele on 3rd. After this date there were up to three birds at five sites with the last being singles at Belvide Res on 14th and Berry Hill on 15th. Finally, a late bird was present in a Croxton garden on May 9th - 10th. W Mid The after-effects of the unprecedented 2017 influx continued into the first winter period of 2018. Between February 4th and April 9th via BirdTrack, 30 entries were received for Seth Somers Park and surrounds. High counts in this period were 65 on February 9th, 42 on February 10th, 30 on February 26th and 20 on March 29th CPR, ATh, JHS. Strangely this location failed to see any birds during the autumn of 2017 influx. At Berkswell church yard the birds present from December 6th, 2017 proved popular on January 1st and remained in situ until February 24th, the maximum count during this period was seven on January 2nd many observers. If not in their favourite Yew trees they were often found resting in surrounding trees. A single bird was seen in Dudley early on the morning of February 24th. At Elmdon Park, a single was seen between January 12th and 17th ARD, JKe. At Lutley Wedge one was first seen between March 13th and 19th CPR with two overhead on March 14th. Sandwell Valley played host to one on January 20th Birdguides and Temple Balsall saw two on March 9th, with 11 on 26th SMH. In the Woodgate Valley four were seen on March 14th Birdguides. It’s worthy of note that things returned to normal in the second winter period when there were no records! 2017 Addenda W Mid A series of records from Sandwell Valley was unfortunately omitted from the last Report. Birds were seen on 18 dates involving mainly ones and twos from October 8th to November 21st. The best parties were five on October 21st PMH, 12 on 28th TCH, six on 29th JDC, PMH, nine on November 2nd PMH, three on 4th DSa, SGAH, a total of five on 7thMHa , nine on 11th DSa, MJo, five on 18th MIx, and 17 on 21st SCR. In addition, eight were seen at Sutton Park NNR on October 23rd with quite possibly a further four later in the day PJe, then on October 26th one over at 8.15am followed by three at 9.07am. Lastly this unprecedented autumn finished with two and possibly another four on November 1stCHi .

BullfinchPyrrhula pyrrhula Fairly common to common resident. Amber-listed Warks A rather poor breeding season was reported in the south east, and the only significant nesting counts were two family parties at Brandon on July 25th, possibly as many as four pairs at Ladywalk NR and six pairs at Middleton Lakes. The best count of the year was 14 at Brandon on December 12th, with eight or more at: Braggington, Charlecote, Draycote, Fenny Compton Tunnels, Kingsbury WP, Ladywalk NR, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Quarry, Pillerton Hersey and Wormleighton.

206 Worcs There were six at Upton Warren Lake in January and February. Beehive Coppice had 11 on January 1st with eight east of Waseley Hill on the 11th and also on March 15th. Also on January 11th, there was a mobile flock of 12 at Evesham - Hampton and Penorchard Meadows had ten on the 14th. Redditch - Arrow Lake had eight on February 8th with five at both Blackstone and also at Hunnington Farm on the 11th. Amongst many other sites, breeding was confirmed at Bredon Hill (four+ pairs), Eckington Meadows (three pairs), Grafton Wood (four+ pairs), Hipton Hill Orchards (three+ pairs), John Bennett NR (two+ pairs), Longdon Marsh (three pairs, Lower Moor (two pairs, Throckmorton Landfill (three pairs, Tiddesley Wood (four+ pairs) and Wick (three pairs). A Wyre Forest grid square had five on May 5th and seven on June 10th whilst Penorchard Meadows had seven on October 21st. There were also seven at Park Plantation and five at Lineholt on November 25th. Upton Warren had five throughout December and there were six at Cropthorpe on the 22nd. Staffs There were 12 territories at Berry Hill and seven at Middleton Lakes. Highest flock counts were 14 at Belvide Res on December 22nd, 12 at Heath Hayes - Newlands Brook on February 2nd and Hednesford Hills on November 22nd, 11 at Berry Hill on August 25th and 10 at Cannock Chase - Oldacre Valley on February 4th and Silverdale CP on November 10th. W Mid The breeding population at Marsh Lane NR totalled only three pairs (cf. seven pairs in 2016 and 2017); it was also noted that Bullfinch, Draycote, Bob Hazell current numbers were down on the years prior to 2016. Breeding took place at Bartley Res, The Leasowes, Merecroft Pool LNR, Netherton Res, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park NNR. The species was recorded from 107 locations, of those 34 were during the breeding season but little information received. The best counts were 11 at Sandwell Valley on January 16th, ten at Merecroft Pool LNR on February 3rd, 16 in Sutton Park NNR on August 21st and nine at Marsh Lane NR on December 23rd.

Greenfinch Chloris chloris Fairly common to common resident. Green-listed Warks Given the decline in recent years, it is encouraging to report a couple of positive signs. Birds were reported to be on the increase again at Ladywalk NR, with more on the feeders during the winter. At Dunnington, 140 feeding in sunflower/bird food crop on October 27th was the largest flock in the county since November 2013. There was less positive news from the four HLS farms, where a combined total of 10 territories was the lowest since monitoring began. Other good counts made during the year were 20 at a feeding station near Wormleighton Res on January 6th, 25 at Ansley Common also on 6th, 23 feeding on yew berries at Ladbroke Hall on 12th, 23 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on March 24th and 70 feeding on sunflowers in a game cover crop at Farnborough on September 11th. Other double-figure counts were made at Brandon, Bidford Grange GC, Burton Green, Long Itchington, Warwick, Watchbury (Barford) and Wolston GP. Worcs In January, there were loose feeding flocks of 22 at Bewdley Jubilee Gardens on the 2nd and 32 at Kyre Park on the 6th. At Wick, there were 24 feeding on winter game crops in January and February. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 15 on January 11th on which date Croome Park

207 had 25 with 26 here on April 8th. Stanklyn Lane had 30 on February 3rd and Hanbury Jinney Ring had ten on the 23rd as did Wassell Grove on March 23rd. A clutch of five at Bodenham Arboretum successfully fledged four young and there were eight pairs at Lower Broadheath on June 15th. Upton Warren had ten on July 17th. Nine birds in two family parties were at Lower Moor on July 18th with 16 feeding on Blackberries here in late August/September. A Teme Valley migration watch recorded 41 in early October. At Clifton upon Teme, a sunflower strip held an impressive 175 on October 27th, 75 on November 3rd and 150 on the 30th. There were 12 at Aston Somerville on November 5th with 40 on game crops at Wick in November and December. A Stoke Bliss garden had ten on December 23rd with the same number at Upton Warren Flashes on the 30th. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Doxey Marshes 40 18 15 14 6 6 8 12 6 7 4 6 Keele - 40 6 2 - - 3 2 8 4 2 - Middle Mayfield 13 25 - - - 4 p 45 - 30 9 10 Middleton Lakes 10 4 - - 4 3 2 - 3 1 - - River Sow Meadows - 8 10 12 - - - 6 5 - - 6 Trentham Gardens 23 23 17 - - 9 8 - 1 - - 1

Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 355 240 196 110 148 95 25 132 101

Breeding was confirmed from just five sites and probably occurred at a further 16. The best non- tabulated counts were 100 at Cuckoo Bank on August 25th and Whitemoor Haye on September 16th, 25 at Kingsley on January 5th and Turbine Cottage and Bunkers Hill on October 5th and 20 at Weston Jones Mill on March 4th. W Mid At least five pairs bred at or adjacent to Marsh Lane NR which is a reduction of one pair from last year. This species was noted at a further 119 locations in total and during the breeding season at 54 locations. Very little quantitative breeding information was received. The only significant counts were 15 at Berkswell on January 10th and a maximum of 29 in the Sandwell Valley on November 21st, where there were also numerous double-figure counts.

Linnet Linaria cannabina Very common, though much reduced, resident and partial migrant, with fewer in winter. Red- listed Warks About 15 pairs were thought to have bred at Lighthorne Quarry, half the total present ten years ago. Seven singing males were noted at Wasperton, whilst six pairs at Brandon, three pairs at Ladywalk NR and nine pairs at Middleton Lakes were all consistent with 2017. All four HLS farms experienced a drop, most notably Harrow Hill Farm, where a total of 18 territories was a decline of nine. Birds were again numerous in the first winter period, and for the second January running a massive flock of around 1,200 was at Pitchill in Salford Priors parish. Other high counts were 300 at Charlecote on February 9th, 482 at Ailstone on 11th and 270 in a weedy field at Priors Hardwick on March 31st. Counts of 100-200 came from: Coleshill, Hodnell, Morton Bagot, Oxhouse Farm, Radway, Salford Priors GP and Tysoe. A couple of sizeable flocks lingered until relatively late, with 75 at Priors Hardwick on May 5th and 92 near Coldcomfort Wood on June 5th. The first large gathering in the post-breeding season was 93 at Ailstone on August 4th, followed by 110 at Fenny Compton Tunnels on 13th and 160 in game cover at Farnborough on 28th. Comfortably the largest flock in the second half of the year was 550 in stubble at Church Hill - Wormleighton on September 15th, with other maxima 250 on ploughland at Chesterton on 22nd, 200 in game cover crop at Hodnell on December 2nd and

208 200 at Barcheston on 3rd. Other flocks of at least 100 were at Dunnington, Fenny Compton, Hartshill, Knightcote, Morton Bagot, Saxon Mill - Warwick and Shustoke Res. Worcs Shenstone had 100 on January 1st whilst Four Oaks had 50 and Upton Warren had 30 on the 7th. There were 300 at Lower Moor river meadows on January 6th, 250 on the 18th, 320 on the 25th and 250 on February 6th. The game bird feed crop at Wick held substantial first winter period numbers including 480 on January 10th, 750 on the 16th, 345 on February 28th, 520 on March 3rd and 350 on the 30th. Walton Pool had 33 on January 14th with 40 at Wassell Grove on the 22nd and 60 here on the 26th. A winter feed crop at Cropthorne had 300 on January 22nd whilst Caunsall had 150 on the 25th. On January 28th, Redhill had 400 and Camp Lane Pits had 40. A derelict sunflower crop at Naunton Beauchamp hosted an impressive 600 on January 30th with 450 here on February 6th. had 100 on February 1st, Holt had 40 on the 16th, Walton Pool had 35 on the 17th whilst Camp Lane Pits had 50 on the 18th and there were 140 at Bowbrook on the 27th. In March, there were 60 at Hanley William on the 9th, 40 at Camp Lane Pits on the 15th and 70 at Wassell Grove on the 23rd. Burcot had 50 on April 1st, Bredon Hill had 60 on the 5th and Little Comberton had 42 on the 25th. A pair with four juveniles were found at Little Comberton on July 6th. Elmbridge had 80 on August 12th, Bredon Hill had 40 on the 20th and 90 on the 29th. Crutch Lane had 50 on September 1st whilst Waggon Lane had 40 on the 4th. There were 150 at Hanley William on September 4th, 100 at Timberhonger on the 8th and 45 at a Teme Valley migration watch on the 22nd with 39 through here on October 7th. had 250 on September 29th with 30 at both John Bennett NR and at Norton on the 30th. Holt had 30 on October 6th whilst Bittell Res had 35 through the month. Holt Heath had 150 on November 8th, The Standbatches had 55 on the 14th and Upton Warren had 40 on the 17th. Lineholt had 150 on November 25th with the same number on a Clifton upon Teme sunflower strip on the 30th. In December, Kyre had 120 on the 7th with 50 at Holt on the 21st. Wick had 450 on game feed crops on December 19th , Ripple Pits had 260 on the 22nd with 457 in a stubble field at Clifton upon Teme on the 23rd. Hurcott had 80 on December 26th and there were 50 at Grimley on the 27th. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Alrewas - 20 47 10 - 5 - 2 9 - - 100 Belvide Res - - 65 65 ------40 Branston GP ------80 50 80 50 Hixon Airfield 35 25 - 8 8 30 - 65 200 22 - - I54 8 20 35 20 6 - - - - 80 - 30 Middleton Lakes - - - 60 - 14 8 - 8 3 90 - River Sow Meadows - 9 - 6 - 4 10 18 50 - - - Tucklesholme 30 - 100 - 6 - 1 - 40 100 40 - Whitemoor Haye 50 60 ------150 145 150

Autumn Visible Migration Year 2008 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 43 355 466 1414 377 275 792 270 96 404 262

Other significant non-tabulated counts were up to 300 at Crossplains between January and March; in January 60 at Iverley and 50 at Audley Meadows; in October 105 at Upper Outwoods, 80 at Forster Bridge, 70 at Blithfield Res and 50 at Gibbets Wood Quarry; in November 70 at Gailey Res and in December 400 at Burnt Wood and 200 at Gibbets Wood Quarry. Visible migration was observed between September 14th and November 30th. W Mid Only one pair bred at Marsh Lane NR (cf. five pairs in 2017 and eight in 2016). Records were received from 35 locations with 14 of these during the breeding season (cf. 22 in 2017); this is a significant reduction if taken at face value. In the first winter period Lutley Wedge held good numbers with a maximum of 125 on February 27th. Marsh Lane NR hosted over 200 on

209 March 3rd, with flocks of 100+ on several other dates. Similar numbers were recorded from Sutton Park NNR with a maximum of 102 on January 4th. During the second winter period the largest flock was 110 at Castle Hills on December 24th.

Common Redpoll Acanthis flammea Scarce winter visitor in fluctuating numbers. Warks The only acceptable record was one with a group of c.20 Lesser Redpoll in Coxmere Wood, on November 21st TMa, JGB. Worcs In October, one was found with a flock of 70 Lesser Redpolls at Malvern - Happy Valley on the 20th with six here on the 27th AWa. In the Wyre Forest, two were found with 150 Lesser Redpolls by the old rail track on November 25th CRe, RCli, AWa. Staffs Two were present at Amington on garden feeders from March 13th–April 15th TPe. W Mid One was observed at Sandwell Valley on February 10th CCl. One was also reported from a Solihull garden on February 28th PCa and finally one was seen at Hollywood on March 25th JRW.

Lesser Redpoll Acanthis cabaret Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Red-listed Warks Site maxima during the first winter period were 30 at Brandon on January 30th (and again on February 12th), at least 20 at Ladywalk NR on 12th, 63 at Morton Bagot on February 4th, 30 feeding in game cover crops with the large finch flock at Wormleighton on 8th, at least 20 at Earlswood Lakes on March 15th and 40 at Keatley’s Pool (Packington) on 30th. Spring passage dragged into early May, with one at Farnborough Park on 2nd, five at Fenny Compton Tunnels on 4th and one at Watchbury - Barford on 10th. Summer records are unusual, so a female at Clowes Wood on June 9th, one in the car park at Brandon on July 22nd and three at Kinwarton on 30th was noteworthy. The first back in autumn was at Salford Priors GP on September 23rd, followed by another at Bedworth Woodlands on 29th. Visible migration included 14 south-west at Salford Priors GP on October 7th. The highest flock counts in the second winter period were 24 at Hartshill Hayes CP on October 18th, 25 at Brandon Wood on November 7th, 30 at Braggington on 12th, 50 at Ladywalk NR on 22nd, 58 at Brandon on December 12th and 22 at Morton Bagot on 16th. Worcs Numbers in the county were generally considered to be lower in 2018. In the first half of the year, Upton Warren had monthly maxima of January – 15, February Lesser Redpoll, Dickens Heath, Claire Workman – 30, March - 20 and April – 11. Penorchard Meadow had 50 on January 12th on which date Lineholt had 15 and there were 12 at Redditch - Abbey GC on the 20th. Kyre had five on January 25th and there were seven at Camp Lane Pits and ten at Uffmoor Wood on the 28th. Weymans Wood and Hurcott both had six on February 4th on which date there were 15 in the Wyre Forest. Bricklehampton had eight

210 on February 10th and there were 12 at Holt on the 24th. Bricklehampton had five on March 6th, Kemerton Lake NR had 30 on the 9th with 25 at Longdon Marsh on the 12th. Martley and Wassell Grove had six on March 14th, Penorchard Meadow had 12 on the 25th when Woodbury Hill had six and Camp Lane Pits had seven on the 30th. Wyre Forest had 20 on April 18th and pairs in the month were noted at Hell Hole on the 5th, West Malvern on the 15th and at Woodbury Hill on May 3rd. Woodbury Hill also had nine on June 7th whilst Wild Goose NR had eight on August 24th. Ripple Pits had five on October 7th and Malvern - Happy Valley had over 40 at the end of the month with 70 here on the 27th on which date there were five at Upper Hollowfield. Upton Warren had low second winter period figures with monthly maxima of October – 12, November – one and December – one. Lineholt had 12 on November 3rd and 25 on the 25th. Substantial numbers were in the Wyre Forest late in the year with 150 found on November 25th and 25 on December 9th. Also in December, Holt had six on the 22nd, Burlish Top had 50 on the 24th and there was an impressive 100 at Devils Spittleful on the 31st. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Bateswood NR - 18 20 50 ------Cannock Chase - 30 20 1 - - - - - 50 200 50 Chasewater Res 12 ------50 30 - Hanchurch Woods - - 100 50 - - - - - 3 - - Hednesford Hills - - 6 ------50 50 -

Autumn Visible Migration Year 2008 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 143 126 81 484 169 75 36 216 36 114 56

There was no confirmed breeding but May and June sightings at Maer Hills, Swineholes Wood and Tittesworth Res suggest it may have taken place at these sites. Visible migration counts were made between September 24th and November 18th. Other significant counts were 30 at Doxey Marshes on March 18th, 50 at Loynton Moss on April 11th, 150 at Cuckoo Bank on October 19th, 30 at Apedale CP on November 3rd and 300 at Dimmingsdale on December 31st. W Mid No breeding records were received although birds were recorded during the breeding season at Meriden Shafts with double figures noted in April and May. Smaller numbers were noted in Sutton Park NNR on similar dates. The majority of records (80%) occurred during the first winter period with notable counts of 75 at Sutton Park NNR on January 8th, 40 at Blythe Valley Park on February 17th, 50 at Meriden Shafts on March 20th and 40+ at Keatley’s Pool on 30th. Away from potential breeding sites the latest sighting came from Goscote Valley on April 17h. The first returning bird of the autumn was at Sutton Park NNR on September 29th, with birds present in good numbers through to the end of October and a maximum of 146 on October 7th, the years highest count.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic breeding species. Green-listed Warks There was a small improvement on 2017 with records from eight sites, but we have now had three consecutive years of relatively few sightings. One was in a Salford Priors garden on an unspecified date in January, and eight were at Arley Wood on 22nd. The only other report in the first winter period was one flying low to the east over the Ilmington Downs on March 16th. October saw a small influx, with one at Hartshill Hayes CP and eight over Napton Res on 8th, three at Hartshill Hayes CP and two over Brandon on 17th, a single at Hartshill Hayes CP again on 18th and a small flock over Ladywalk NR on 30th. The last of the year were three flying east over Coleman’s Hill on November 8th.

211 Worcs Reports were received from 15 locations in the county (14 in 2017). One flew over Stanford on Teme on January 3rd and there were three at Shatterford Wood on the 18th whilst three were found at both Woodbury Hill and Temple Dingle in February. Several were heard at Eymore Wood, with one at the Wyre Forest on April 1st and there was a male at the Lickey Hills on the 10th. Up to five were at Woodbury Hill in May and June and calling birds were at Wyre Forest on Jane 5th with eight over West Hagley on July 30th. A migration watch in the Teme Valley produced five on October 5th and three on the 7th. One was over Malvern - British Camp on October 16th with two female-types at Grimley Old Workings on the 22nd and one at Walton Hill on the 28th. On November 2nd, one was over Perry Wood with four at Sapey Common and at least two were at Temple Dingle on the 8th whilst Penny Hill Quarry had one on the 30th. Harpley churchyard had three on December 28th and there were four at Walton Hill on the 30th. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Cannock Chase 12 20 15 p - 1 - 1 - 40 50 41 Hanchurch Woods 22 15 13 2 1 - 11 - 11 15 25 -

There were no confirmed breeding records but all the year-round presence at Cannock Chase and Hanchurch suggests it may have occurred here. Visible migration at Belvide Res, Berry Hill and Black Bank was observed between August 11th and December 4th totalling 62 birds. Non- tabulated counts were five at Upper Longdon on January 8th, one at Brookleys Lake on 20th, one at Knypersley Res on February 4th, six at Roach End on May 26th, two at Maer Hills on June 3rd, two at Keele University on July 12th, eight over Aqualate Mere on August 4th, one at Knypersley Res on October 28th and “a few” over Million Plantation on November 30th. W Mid After just one record last year we saw an increase to four sightings all from the second winter period starting with a minimum of three in Sutton Park NNR on October 7th and four there on 29th PJe. One was seen flying over the Pershore Road - Stirchley on October 20thSHa with the final record of the year, a single at Sandwell Valley on December 10thPMH .

GoldfinchCarduelis carduelis Very common summer visitor and partial migrant; increasingly common in winter. Green-listed Warks Survey work on the four HLS farm logged 27 territories, a fall of five from the previous year, although Aylesmore Farm did see a rise to seven (cf. five in 2017). As way of comparison, the population on the farms is now almost triple the size of that of Greenfinch. A successful breeding season was noted at both Wolverton and Avon Dassett, where post-breeding flocks of 60 on the dates of August 12th and 27th respectively were largely made up of juveniles. Early in the year, the largest counts were 80 at Honington on January 28th and Goldfinch, Belvide Res, Nigel Talbot 88 at Saxon Mill - Warwick on March 24th. Flocks were much more numerous in the post-breeding period, with highs of 80 at Stratford-upon-Avon Greenway on August 27th, 85 at Hill Park Wood - Coombe Fields on September 5th, 150 at The Pleasance - Kenilworth on 16th and 80 in a game cover crop at the

212 Fenny Compton Hills on November 10th. Flocks of between 40 and 75 were also noted at: Astley, Dairy Farm, Forest of Arden GC, Kingsbury WP, Lighthorne Quarry, Morton Bagot and Priors Hardwick. Worcs Two nests were successful at Bodenham Arboretum fledging five young each from clutches of six and five. At Clent Road, one was taken by a Sparrowhawk on January 5th. Redditch - Winyates had 30 on January 4th with 36 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 11th, 30 at Wassell Grove on the 12th and 65 at Upton Warren Moors on the 16th. There were 38 at Redditch - Abbey Golf Course on January 20th and 100 at Beaconwood on the 29th. Hunnington Farm had 30 on February 11th whilst Upton Warren had 40 on March 18th. In the summer, Upton Warren had 35 on July 17th and on the 30th there were 50 at both Grimley and Stanford on Teme. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 32 on July 26th and 40 on August 9th. In August, there were 80 at John Bennett NR with 50 at Bevere Island on the 10th, 40 at Bittell Reservoirs on the 18th, 50 at Lower Moor on the 22nd, 100 at Wild Goose NR on the 25th and 40 at Nafford Lock on the 27th. John Bennett NR had 55 on September 8th, Redditch - Oakenshaw had 40 on the 22nd with 45 at Upton Warren Flashes on the 23rd. There was a flock of 100 juveniles at Lower Smite Farm on September 18th, feeding in a pollen/nectar strip on Chicory, Wild Carrot etc. Clifton upon Teme had 250 on September 27th feeding on Common Knapweed and there were 200 at Bredon Hill Woolas Hall on the 30th. Burlish Top had 30 on October 29th with 32 at Hollywood on November 1st and 40 at Aston Somerville on the 5th. Pershore - Avon Meadows had 46 on November 30th and a Stoke Bliss garden had 30 on December 23rd. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Berry Hill Fields 90 36 26 23 16 19 470 630 380 15 - - Doxey Marshes 68 36 14 - 14 5 28 118 44 42 35 32 Middle Mayfield 24 40 7 - - 5 p 120 - 50 - 40

Autumn Visible Migration Year 2010 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 171 217 98 348 266 202 49 170 170

Numbers at the tabulated sites in the autumn were all lower than last year. Away from the tabulated sites, in August there were 70 at Chasewater Res; in September 107 at Sutton, 100 at Aston Lodge Park, 80 at Aqualate Mere, 72 at Endon STW and 70 at Silverdale CP and in October, 55 at Chasewater Res. W Mid Eight pairs were present at Marsh Lane NR which is in keeping with previous years. Breeding was also reported from a further nine sites, obviously an under-recording! Birds were reported from a total of 156 locations (cf. 160 in 2017) and of these 74 were during the breeding season (cf. 89 in 2017). Large flocks were scarce during in the first winter period with highest counts of 47 at Clayhanger Marsh on January 11th, 60 at Parkes Hall Res on January 22nd and 50+ at Seth Somers Park on February 10th. The second winter period saw numbers marginally higher with up to 60 at Reedswood Park from September 15th to the end of the year, 44 at Netherton Res on November 16th and 50+ at Norton on December 4th.

Siskin Spinus spinus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeding species. Green- listed Warks In the first winter period birds were present in reasonable numbers, with highsof 120 at Netherwood Heath on January 5th and around 100 at Brandon on a number of days during the month. Other flocks of between 20 and 80 were reported from: Baddesley Clinton, Earlswood (Lakes and village), Farnborough Park, Ladywalk NR, Maxstoke Park GC, Saxon Mill (Warwick), Whitacre Heath NR and Windmill Naps. There were relatively few records in

213 April, suggestive of a prompt departure, although the last of the period was at Ladywalk NR on May 5th. The first back in autumn were four at Fenny Compton Tunnels and one at Ladywalk NR, both on September 11th, with the best counts before the end of the month 30 moving north at Salford Priors GP on 23rd and 18 at Ladywalk NR on 24th. The biggest flocks in the second winter period were 45 at Brandon Wood on November 7th and 62 at Brandon on December 12th, with other counts of 20-40 at: Baddesley Clinton, Combrook, Draycote, Fillongley, Kingsbury WP, Salford Priors GP, Saxon Mill - Warwick, Shustoke Res, Warwick and Wormleighton. Worcs This species remains scarce in the south of the county and also in the west in the winter months. Stanford had 26 on January 1st whilst Old Yew Hill Wood had 45 from January to early March. Wilden Marsh had the highest number in the year with 200 on January 8th on which date Bittell Reservoirs had 40. On January 12th, Arrow Lake had 21 and Penorchard Meadows had 30 whilst Uffmoor Wood had 60 on the 28th. Redditch Ipsley Alders and Winyates had 25 and 35 respectively on February 2nd whilst Woodbury Hill had 65 on the 7th. There were 20 at Wyre Forest on February 17th, Upton Warren on the 18th and also at Arley on the 24th. On March 4th, Wassell Grove had 30 and there were 45 at Stanford on Teme. In April, Park Plantation had 65 on the 1st with 30 at Penorchard Meadows on the 18th. Wyre Forest had several single-figure sightings during May and June. Other reports received in May came from Eymore Wood, Park Plantation and Woodbury Hill. Kemerton Lake NR had 30 on September 23rd with 60 at Bredon Hill on October 7th and 26 at Little Comberton on the 18th. There were 40 at Wilden Marsh on November 20th and in December, both Redditch - Arrow Valley and Stoke Bliss had 30 on the 9th and 20th respectively whilst Holt had 80 on the 27th. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Cannock Chase 1 30 100 27 4 - - - - 100 200 100 Hanchurch Woods 88 40 280 ------16 - -

Autumn Visible Migration Year 2009 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Count 76 176 704 515 146 105 1010 370 524 387

Wintering numbers were again low in both winter periods and in the first, the best non-tabulated counts were 80 at Tittesworth Res on January 1st, 50 at Aqualate on 13th, 32 at Belvide Res on February 2nd , 40 at Aqualate Mere from March 14th–27th and 75 at Alton on April 3rd. Breeding probably occurred at Back Forest and Gradbach. Visible migration took place between September 22nd and November 30th principally at Belvide Res, Berry Hill and Black Bank with the best count of 125 at Black Bank on October 7th. The best non-tabulated counts in the second winter period were 50 at Dimmingsdale on October 9th and 40 at Belvide Res late December. W Mid There seems to have been a general up-turn in numbers this year with larger flocks noted. During the first winter period small numbers were noted at over 50 localities, with high counts of 90 at Marsh Lane NR on January 1st, 120 at Sutton Park NNR on 2nd. 50 at Edgbaston Pool on 29th and a notable 350 at Meriden Shafts on March 26th. The latest bird was recorded at Blythe Valley Park on May 15th. Unusual out of season records were two at Charterfields Estate - Kingswinford on June 2nd and two at Clayhanger Marsh on 11th. The first birds of the autumn were early with two at Marsh Lane NR on July 15th but in general, the second winter period was quieter with 52 at Sutton Park NNR on October 7th, 30 at Berkswell on December 26th and 30 at Marsh Lane NR on 31st the highest counts received.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Rare vagrant (6/10). Staffs One was present at Blithfield on October 27thGJM .

214 Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor. Warks One was seen in flight and heard calling amongst a small group of pipits at Farborough Bank - Draycote on the morning of November 1st TMa. Worcs One was briefly at Upton Warren Flashes with Meadow Pipits on October 21st PCr. In November, one was at Birchall Green Farm - Sinton Green on the 11th and 12th AGib. A male was on Malvern - Worcestershire Beacon on December 14th and was thought to have been present for several days. W Mid One flew low over a Snow Bunting, Birchall Green Farm, Andy Warr garden calling, heading towards the Sandwell Valley on November 2nd PMH.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra Frequent to uncommon much declined, resident. Red-listed Warks Birds were noted at 11 sites during the breeding season. The majority only held lone individuals, although two were singing at Hillborough in late May and three unsexed birds were at Ailstone in June. Typically, the vast majority of locations were to the south and west of Stratford-upon-Avon, although in the far north one was at Warton on three dates in July. Only one singing male was reported this year at Crimscote (cf. four in 2017), although another was at nearby Wimpstone on June 5th. In the first winter period there were some impressive counts from the Avon Valley between Charlecote and Wasperton, peaking at 52 on February 25th, and with 24 still present on April 8th. Elsewhere, there were occasional records of no more than four from Broom, Hampton Lucy and Salford Priors GP. In the post-breeding season birds were very scarce, with no sightings in September and October. The blank spell ended with one at Wolston on November 27th, followed by four feeding in wild bird seed crop at Charlecote on December 9th and one at Broom on 13th. Worcs There were 36 at Shenstone on January 16th with 30 on February 18th and 12 on March 23rd. North Littleton had 16 in January and 20 in February. One was feeding on an island at Upton Warren Flashes on January 25th. Up to ten birds reported from the Bricklehampton Prairies area in spring. In April, singing males were at Bredons Hardwick on the 22nd and at Nafford on the 22nd and 28th. One was at West Hagley on May 8th with two at Netherton on June 29th. Three were at John Bennett NR on July 5th with one singing here on the 12th and two were at Camp Lane Pits on August 25th. Monthly maxima from North Littleton in the second winter period were October – 14, November – 24 and December – 39. Staffs Year 2006 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 No. 5km Squares 20 12 11 14 15 12 6 13 16 12 9 6 8 Max. Flock Size 25 56 35 80 48 7 8 12 14 25 28 15 18 Singing Males 25 17-23 22-27 28-40 28-32 29-31 13 27-29 21 16-18 10 10 13-15

215 There were no confirmed breeding records of fledged juveniles, but it was encouraging to see an increase in territorial males. The largest flock counts were 18 at Iverley on January 2nd and 11 at The Clive Farm on March 29th.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common to abundant, though declining, resident. Red-listed Warks A targeted survey organised by the Ornithological Society in July included the south-east of the county. One of the highest numbers of breeding pairs was found in SP34 (centred on the parish of Tysoe) with 5.3 per 1km². In SP45, three contiguous 1km squares between Fenny Compton and Farnborough produced 19 singing males, but this compares badly with 34 located over the same area in 1996 JJB. There was also a count of eight singing males in 1km2 on the Fenny Compton Hills. On the four HLS farms, three had falls in the number of breeding pairs: Farm 2018 2017 2016 Aylesmore Farm, Upper Brailes 20 22 33 Highfield Farm, Honington 24 30 22 Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth 10 13 17 Harrow Hill Farm, Long Compton 42 42 37

In the west, four breeding pairs were present at Braggington and Salford Priors GP, but the population at Morton Bagot is now in serious decline with just one pair located (cf. 13 singing males ten years ago in 2008 and up to 20 in 2006). In the first winter period, 80 were taking advantage of set aside at Kinwarton on January 22nd, 60 were in the Salford Priors GP area on 31st, 100 were at Radway on February 25th and 72 were at Manor Farm, Draycote on March 6th. Good numbers were also regularly taking advantage of wild bird seed mix at Charlecote in the first three months of the year, peaking at 80 on March 2nd. In the second winter period 125 were at Dairy Farm on November 4th, with other counts of 50-90 at Aylesmore Farm, Charlecote, Kinwarton, Manor Farm (Draycote), Priors Marston, Radway, Wishaw and Wormleighton. Worcs There were 20 around game feed crops at Defford Airfield on January 8th and 75 at Wick on the 10th. Shenstone had 20 on January 17th and there were 26 at Longdon Marsh on the 23rd. Weymans Wood had ten on February 4th with 20 at both Shenstone and Clifton upon Teme on the 17th. Wick still had 40 on winter game crops on March 15th and there were 30 at Clifton Hill on the 29th. Birds were reported throughout the year in the summit area of Bredon Hill with 30 present on April 6th and Longdon Marsh had ten on the 20th. Clifton upon Teme had 20 on October 9th with nine at Lineholt on November 3rd. North Littleton had 25 on December 19th and 40 on the 29th with 40 again on game feed crops at Wick on the 19th. Clifton Pits had 34 in a stubble field on December 23rd. Staffs Monthly maxima JFMAMJJASOND Alrewas --1314-----9 Belvide Res - - 2 1 - 1 - - - 6 45 50 I54 70 30 40 3 10 9 10 - - 8 5 1 Whitemoor Haye 12 7 50 2 2 - 1 - - - - 10

Year 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Confirmed Breeding 3 1 4 0 2 2 0

40 breeding territories were recorded this year compared with 75 and 77 in the previous two. The only non-tabulated double-figure counts were 50 at Iverley in January, 17 at Kemsey Manor and 16 at Clay Mills in February, 20 at The Clive Farm in March, 25 at Crossplains in September, 25 at Brankley Pastures NR in October with 15 there in December.

216 W Mid Reports came from 37 sites with only 12 reporting birds during the breeding season (cf. 14 in 2017). Quite how many pairs bred is open to speculation as little evidence was provided. The highest counts were 20 at Lutley Wedge on January 3rd and March 30th and 40 at Allesley on December 24th.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though declining, resident. Amber-listed Warks Counts of five or more singing males in the breeding season came from: Brandon (25), Coombe CP (five), Fenny Compton (nine), Lighthorne Quarry (11), Middleton Lakes (25 territories), Napton Res (seven), Priors Harwick (six), Salford Priors GP (nine) and Wormleighton (at least 15 in the parish). A count of nine was also made at Warwick Racecourse on April 15th. Breeding numbers on the four HLS farms remained similar to 2017, with four pairs at both Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth and Highfield Farm, Honington the best counts. Outside the breeding season the biggest flocks were 50 at Pleasance Farm on January 10th, 45 at Barford on February 18th and 40 at Kinwarton on December 13th. Worcs The value of game feed crops to this species was again demonstrated with 120 at Wick on January 10th. Upton Warren had eight on January 2nd with 20 at Bevere Island on the 13th and 12 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on the 18th. Shenstone had 15 on February 17th with five at Ripple Pits on the 20th and seven at Clifton upon Teme on the 28th. Upton Warren had ten on March 13th and 12 on the 20th whilst Camp Lane Pits had 15 on the 24th. Both Arrow Lake and John Bennett NR had four singing males in early April with ten at Gwen Finch NR in May. Six pairs bred at Lower Moor river meadows and breeding was confirmed at Eckington - Aysham Meadow and at Feckenham Wylde Moor. John Bennett NR had 20 on September 25th, Lower Smite Farm had eight on October 24th with 15 at Pershore - Avon Meadows on November 22nd. In December, Lineholt had 12 on the 16th with ten at both North Littleton on the 19th and at Camp Lane Pits on the 27th. Game feed crops were again utilised at Wick with 65 here on December 19th. Staffs Year 2006 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Locations ------139 116 86 112 103 89 86 Breeding Sites 72 92 80 93 90 90 89 89 64 76 75 65 63

Of the major breeding areas, Berry Hill had 10 territories (10, 13, 18, 15, 24, 30, 30, 28 and 27 in the previous nine years), Doxey 48 (58 last year), Middleton Lakes 39 (52 last year), Radford Meadows 10 and River Sow Meadows 10. Best flock counts were 84 at Cannock Chase - Sherbrook Valley in January with 25 there in February with 40 at Doxey Marshes and 20 at I54. In March, there were 21 at I54 and 20 at Doxey Marshes and in October, 24 at Doxey Marshes. W Mid Breeding took place at Marsh Lane NR with 16 pairs, which is consistent with recent years. In addition, breeding season records were received from Bartley Res, Blythe Valley Park, Clayhanger Marsh, Elmdon Park, Fens Pools LNR, Mercote Mill, Netherton Res, Park Lime Pits, North Common - Pelsall, Ravenshaw, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park NNR, Old Golf Course - Walsall and Rushall Canal - Walsall. The only counts of note in the first winter period were 11 in Sutton Park NNR on January 4th and 12 at Sandwell Valley on February 5th. The second winter period saw 13 at both Sutton Park NNR on October 7th and at Sandwell Valley on November 21st.

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

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis Warks One was at Alvecote Pools on June 2nd. Staffs The same escaped bird was at Burston from April 19th–29th, Pendeford Mill NR on August 22nd until 31st at least and at Himley Hall from October 13th–November 17th. W Mid A feral bird was seen between September 29th and October 12th at the Waterfront - .

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Staffs One was present at Rudyard Lake on September 30th.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Warks One at Draycote on January 8th was followed by another at Kingsbury WP on February 15th and 16th. Staffs One was at Gailey Res from July 24th–September 10th. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR a single bird was present from February 8th – 12th associating with an Egyptian Goose. Later in the month it was seen again on 18th.

Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris Warks An unringed but very tame individual was associating with on the river at Welford-on-Avon on August 25th. Worcs A fully-winged juvenile was discovered at Camp Lane Pits on August 26th BRS et al. and was last reported on 29th, when a second fully-winged, but very approachable juvenile was noted at Bransford GC PEdw and was still present on September 3rd.

Bufflehead Bucephala albeola Staffs A ringed female was at Branston GP from July 29th until September 30th.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Warks One was reported at Coton Lakes on January 4th. Worcs A male was found on Woodbury Hill on March 29th.

Saker Falco cherrug Warks One was in the Napton Hill-Napton Res area on April 5th.

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

Greater Rhea Rhea americana S. America Worcs One was present on the golf course greens at Fladbury from October 15th to the end of the year. It was traced to its owner in Harvington three miles away.

Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour E. Africa, S. Asia and S. America Warks Small numbers were present at Ladywalk NR on a semi-regular basis in the first winter period and from late July until mid-September. There was a high of four on February 23rd and March 4th. W Mid One was reported from Red House Park on January 8th.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, where introduced. Warks Two flew south over Milcote in the direction of Clifford Chambers on April 16th. An adult on East Marsh Pool at Brandon between November 15th and 17th was only the third record for the reserve, following one in April 1984 and another in October and November 2001. Worcs Two at Camp Lane Pits on April 23rd and the same two at Westwood Pool on 24th. Staffs Two were at Dimmingsdale on January 12th and were reported on and off until June 28th. One was at Middleton Lakes from January 22nd until February 20th, returning on November 11th. Two were seen at Trentham Gardens Lake from May 12th until year end and two were at Copmere from August 9th until September 9th with one remaining until year end.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Breeds on the high plateaux in central and southern Asia and winters mainly in northern India and Burma. Warks One at Kingsbury WP with Canada Geese on January 15th and 16th was probably the same individual that had frequented the Tame Valley in the second half of 2017. Staffs One was at Radford Meadows on January 1st, another at Belvide Res on and off between January 10th and March 5th, returning on July 18th and August 8th, Blithfield Res on January 11th, Radford Meadows on April 23rd, Doxey Marshes on May 3rd, Uttoxeter Quarry on and off between August 4th and December 17th, Blithfield Res on August 6th, Doxey Marshes from September 2nd–October 16th, two at Whitemoor Haye on October 11th, Aqualate Mere on November 11th and December 8th and Doxey Marshes on December 17th. W Mid A bird visited the Sandwell Valley on April 19th. Whilst at Cannon Hill Park a single was observed on September 5th and October 16th.

219 Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata Lowlands of Mexico to NE Argentina and Brazil. Warks One of the birds at Bedworth Woodlands from 2017 was noted occasionally until May 28th. Worcs Singles at Tardebigge Res on April 3rd, 8th, 15th and October 9th. Staffs One was at Doxey Marshes on August 22nd until year end, two at Westport Lake on October 17th and three at Wolstanton on December 27th. W Mid One was seen in Swanswell (Coventry) on January 12th and then again on October 18th. Netherton Res saw several records throughout the year. Whilst at Plantsbrook NR a bird was present on two dates in February.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa Forested woodlands and Inland lakes of Canada, south to northern Mexico. Warks An unsexed bird was at Saxon Mill - Warwick on April 22nd. Staffs A drake was at Belvide Res on December 27th and 28th.

Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix Open wetlands in southern South America and the Falkland Islands. Warks One at Salford Priors GP on April 22nd was more than likely the individual first seen there in September 2017.

Reeves’s Pheasant Syrmaticus reevesii North-central China. Warks A male was at Butler’s End - Packington on April 21st and June 10th.

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Africa Warks Two small flocks of four were reported. The first were at - Lowsonford on May 28th and the second at Pillerton Hersey on July 17th. Staffs One was at Sugnall on December 11th.

Harris’s Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus Semi-arid woodland and scrub in South and Central America, north to southern Texas and Arizona. Warks One was around Rugby town centre fairly regularly in January and February, where it menaced the local squirrels! Worcs One was in a conifer tree in Pound Bank Road - Great Malvern on October 27th.

Diamond Dove Geopelia cuneata Australia Worcs An adult male was taking seed under garden feeders in Coach Drive - Fladbury on August 17th and again on September 29th.

220 Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula alexandri Forests of northern India to south-east Asia, Andamans and Greater Sundas. Worcs One at Wickhamford on December 20th had apparently been in the area since the autumn. W Mid A single bird visited the feeding station at RSPB Sandwell Valley with the Ring-necked Parakeets on several dates between October 30th and the year’s end.

Bee-eater sp. Warks A probable Carmine Bee-eater was seen in flight near Cherington on May 20th.

Orange BullfinchPyrrhula aurantiaca Pakistan to NW India W Mid Two of this species were reported from Unicorn Avenue - Coventry on April 29th.

221 Jim Winsper and Dave Emley

As in recent years this review of ringing recoveries from our Region benefits from access to the BTO’s ringing website at:

https://www.bto.org/volunteer-surveys/ringing/publications/online-ringing-reports which presents ring recovery information generated from recaptures by the ringers themselves and also from recoveries reported by members of the general public. What follows is a heavily edited selection of recoveries. We have selected those that illustrate particular attributes such as longevity, site fidelity and long-distance movements. Please visit the BTO’s website for the full un-edited information rather than the glimpse we can provide here. If you find a ringed bird or see one with colour rings it is always worth reporting it. You can do that at the Euring website here:

https://blx1.bto.org/euring/lang/pages/rings.jsp

The following extracts from the list of selected ringing recoveries offer both fact and food for thought.

Remarks related to these Sparrowhawk recoveries most definitely fall into the food for thought category, all three birds being deceased upon recovery, though information regarding the cause of their deaths is not available. However, we can expand on this by offering suggestive but realistic outcomes to their demise. The Sparrowhawk is capable of breeding at one year old, irrespective of plumage development. Given the sedentary nature of DT23941, DE22963 and ET87002 and their age and method of recovery, killed, killed and dead respectively, could their deaths be the result of territorial conflict? Two of the birds had recently attained breeding age and could possibly have been engaged in attempts to gain territory, while in the case of the older bird, DT23941, this could possibly have been the result of conflict involved in defending

222 territory? Territorial disputes often end with life threatening injuries or instant fatality. There are, of course, a variety of reasons why these birds met with an untimely death, but territorial conflict with another Sparrowhawk, and indeed, other species of birds of prey, is not uncommon. The Sparrowhawk can also be vulnerable to attack from other larger bird species such as some of the corvids or birds of prey that are attracted to carrion. This can occur when the hawk is grounded while plucking and consuming large prey victims such as thrushes, doves and especially Woodpigeon, the outcome of such attack’s resulting in the Sparrowhawk themselves becoming prey or suffering severe injury or death while protecting their prey (Jim Winsper pers. obs). The lifestyle of the Sparrowhawk is rather frenetic, hence a typical lifespan of just four years.

The Lesser Black-backed Gull FP03029, found dead in Staffordshire on 07/08/2018 had reached the remarkable age of 21years 3months 26days, the typical lifespan for this species being 15 years. The longevity record for this species is: 34years 10months 27days, set in 2000.

With a lifespan of typically three years, Blue Tit X918968 had far exceeded this age after remaining in Kenilworth, Warwickshire for its entire life, being recovered at death when aged 8 years 3 months 4 days.

We are familiar with roaming Long-tailed Tit flocks comprising merged family parties that relentlessly scour hedgerows and associated vegetation in their search for food. The distance that these flocks travel is variable and dependent on food availability. The selected record of consecutive ringed birds HHN527 and HHN528, both controlled as adults in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham on 30/11/2017, reveals that they continued their journeying together and had traveled 122km when reaching Bidston, Wirral in Merseyside. This journey had taken three months and eight days when both birds were controlled again - an eye-opening statistic

Travelling time of migratory birds is a fascinating subject. We can tell how long it takes between consecutive ringing recovery points, but this can only relate to total time, it does not relate to actual movement or indicate the chosen route between these points. In conjecture, a journey of say 10 days between consecutive ringing recoveries could consist of seven days of directional movement and three days of rest and, involving a variety of routes. Any speculative figures and combinations that we choose to use could be applied. The following recoveries give contrasting results and possibly highlight the aforementioned.

The Reed Warbler S633759 controlled at our Belvide Reserve in Staffordshire on 22/08/2018 took 14 days to travel 195km before being controlled again in Romsey, Hampshire. The male Goldcrest KPK101, possibly weighing in at around 6g, the weight of a 10p coin, and with a wingspan of around 14cm, (wingspan = flattened fully stretched wings) was controlled in Carnoustie, Angus in Scotland on 05/10/2018 and took just 15 days to travel 444km before being controlled again in Streetly, Little Aston, West Midlands. In terms of sheer speed, and irrespective of periods of rest and chosen route, the Rock Pipit EL00472 surpasses both previous records. Controlled in Maletangen, Fraena in Norway, on 14/09/2018 this bird travelled 1,265km, a journey that involved crossing the North Sea, before being identified in the field at our Belvide Reserve in Staffordshire 29 days later. All credit to Belvide birders for picking out the leg ring details of this small passerine and taking the necessary action to investigate and prove their find.

It’s always of great interest to learn of site faithfulness, the ability of a migratory bird to travel huge distances and return to the same breeding site around one year later, repeating this task throughout its entire life. The story of two Pied Flycatchers, D573772 and Y977982 unveil this intriguing lifelong journey. By plotting an approximate straight-line route from their Staffordshire home to their West African wintering grounds, realistically reveals a distance of

223 around 3,000 miles. With the bird departing Staffordshire as a juvenile in the late summer of its first year and heading south to West Africa, it would thereafter complete two journeys each year throughout its life, heading north to breed and returning south to winter. A bird making five journeys over a period of 2.5 years would then accumulate something in the region of 15,000 miles of migratory journeys alone. This does not include movements during the birds breeding and wintering activities. Little wonder that the typical lifespan of a Pied Flycatcher is just two years. At almost four years old our featured birds are doing extremely well, but the odds against them arriving in Staffordshire in spring 2019 are stacked heavily against this happening.

Observations on Lesser Black-backed Gull Movements It has been firmly established that colonisation of the WMBC Region by Lesser Black-backed Gulls is due, in part, to a movement of birds from their breeding grounds in the west-country and probably South Wales. Prospecting birds have journeyed along the Severn estuary and colonised Gloucester, from there, birds have continued to expand their breeding range by moving into our Region, colonising Worcester, then Birmingham and suitable locations elsewhere. This route can be clearly traced when viewing the selected recoveries for this species.

In the 2017 Ringing Report, mention was made of the lack of evidence involving long distance movement from our Region by juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Similar facts emerge again this year with one interesting exception, that of GV43844, a juvenile bird aged four months and six days that was ringed as a pullus in Birmingham on 25th June 2018 and from there traveled 1,418km to Portugal. Unfortunately, the bird was found dead on 31st October 2018. This is, however, clear evidence of a juvenile bird making a long-distance journey in connection with post breeding dispersal from our region and, as a result of its action, prompted investigative thought. Analysing ringing recoveries can clearly be a hit and miss task. Regardless of how many birds have identification rings placed on them, any further information is totally dependent upon those birds being controlled again at a later stage in their life. Subsequent recoveries are therefore fundamental to the success of any ringing scheme. In 2018, just nine birds in total from our Region had rings placed on them, with a grand total of 2067 birds being ringed nationally. It should be stressed however, that in connection with our regional urban breeding birds, ringing pullus gulls on roof-tops is far from being a straightforward exercise, even if the roof construction allows for human access and is preventative of unfledged birds spilling over the edge when panicked by human disturbance. Nevertheless, even the most minimal results can inspire discussion that hopefully prompts further investigation, as has been the case here.

Much has been mentioned in recent times about the colonisation of UK inland towns and cities by roof-top nesting gulls. While this in itself is a remarkable ornithological event, the same must be said about their inland wintering behaviour. Lesser Black-backed Gulls in particular have exploited a favourable habitat and winter climate and in doing so, evolved to maintain an increasing year-round presence in the UK, and probably here in our Region. These habits are far removed from their once post breeding migratory instincts. Delving further into their changing lifestyle, reveals that the BTO and IWC Atlas of Wintering Birds in Britain and Ireland (Peter Lack 1986) mentions that in 1953 a total of just 165 individual Lesser Black- backed Gulls were found wintering inland in England and Wales. At the time of publication of this atlas, some 33 years after the 1953 figures were produced, there were estimated to be in the region of 70,000 individuals wintering in Britain and Ireland. Today, the BTO (current on-line Bird Facts), place an estimate of 130,000 individual birds wintering in Britain. Once considered as being scarce inland, the Lesser Black-backed Gull is now designated a WMBC regional status of:

224 Very common passage migrant and common winter visitor. Fairly common and increasing breeding species since 1986 (Harrison, G. & Harrison, J. 2005. The New Birds of the West Midlands, West Midland Bird Club).

Having such a complex regional status, it therefore comes as little surprise that movements made by these birds can be erratic and that any ringing recoveries might well reflect a similar pattern. Attempting to fully understand their local movements could therefore prompt more questions than answers. As prompted by Alan Dean in his response to the 2017 Ringing Report, reference to the writings of John Coulson (Coulson, J.C. 2019. Gulls. New Naturalist Series, No. 139. Collins, London) draws attention to an interesting occurrence that is of direct significance to the birds in our region. This relates to the fact that Lesser Black-backed Gulls in their first year are likely to migrate further than adults. Recoveries of British ringed first-year birds in Africa suggest this to be the case and the movement made by GV43844 offers supportive evidence to this observation. With this thought in mind, an investigation into the age-related make up of Lesser Black-backed Gulls attending regional winter roosts, could be of interest. Before we examine the findings from these roosts, we should refer to post-breeding dispersal activity and the British winter population of Lesser Black-backed Gulls in providing a supportive link to these investigations.

Post-breeding dispersal can see large gatherings of locally reared juvenile birds (birds of the year) at some of the Region’s larger water bodies during late summer and early autumn. With a clutch size of up to three eggs, there is the potential for juvenile birds to form ≤150% (in the ratio of 3:2) of adult birds (and other ages) gathered at post breeding roosts. This is, however, an unrealistic assessment and a figure of around half of that evaluation, ≤75% of the adult gathering is a far more credible high end assessment, especially when taking into consideration the average clutch size being less than three eggs, together with the high mortality rate of juveniles. Even when using the lesser, or least, of these proportions, post breeding dispersal can result in considerable numbers of juvenile birds being present at some of the regions principal roosts.

The British winter population comprises an increasing number of overwintering British birds that are joined by an influx of winter visitors from more northerly and continental climes. The British breeding population currently stands at around 220,000 individual birds (110,000 breeding pairs, BTO current on-line Bird Facts) while the winter population is much reduced at approximately 130,000 individuals. The actual make-up of the winter population between British overwintering birds and winter visitors, is yet to be established, but visiting birds would be expected to form a much higher proportion. It should be stressed however, that the ability of British birds to adapt to an environment that provides year-round provisions in a suitable annual climate, could see a continued increase in numbers overwintering in the UK. At some of our regions larger water bodies, Lesser Black-backed Gulls can number in their many thousands at mid-winter roosts and while these numbers can be variable, the extent of these gatherings should be taken into account when assessing our age related regional findings.

In response to my request for winter roost information, I am indebted to some of our regional gull aficionados and local patch watchers for providing the following information together with other relevant facts. Our findings from selected regional mid-winter roosts suggest that the ratio between wintering first-winter birds and wintering adults, equates to the younger birds forming in the range 1% to a high end 16% of the total number of birds present. From these findings a distinct pattern emerges as winter progresses, by mid-January there is clearly a much diminished number of post-juvenile, now first-winter birds, attending these gatherings in comparison with those juveniles that attended post-breeding dispersal roosts in the late

225 summer, early autumn of the previous year. While these figures are not an exact representation of the age make up, they clearly demonstrate an exodus of first-winter birds from our Region, which is supportive of Dr John Coulson’s remarks. These reduced figures will certainly be influenced by other factors but even allowing for this, they remain significant. Following on from our findings during the mid-winter roosting period, further investigations throughout February and early March offer a further insight into the non-breeding behaviour of Lesser Black-backed Gulls in our Region. Continued monitoring of the roosting birds at Belvide Res throughout February saw a continuing drop in numbers and by the end of the month just two identifiable first-winter birds were present in an approximate total of 500 adult birds attending the roost, (Steve Nuttall pers. obs). Likewise, at Draycote Water on 19th February, a sample count of birds, close enough to allow accurate ageing, resulted in a total of 262 birds, of which 16 were first-winter, thus first-winter = 6 %, (Tim Marlow pers. obs). Monitoring the roost at Chasewater through February and into early March saw similar results. At the beginning of March, with numbers of birds continuing to fall, a precise count in ideal weather conditions resulted in a total of 2,317 Lesser Black-backed Gulls being present, of which 63 were first- winter birds = 2.75%, and 21 second-winter birds = 1%, all others being adult or near adult, (birds in predominantly black and white plumage), (Ian Ward pers. obs). The continued reduction in numbers of birds attending roosts as springtime approaches would certainly indicate a dispersal of winter visitors returning to their homeland and overwintering birds returning to their British breeding grounds. However, the age make-up at roosts remained fairly consistent throughout the entire winter period with first-winter (second calendar year birds) being conspicuous by their absence.

Some points emerge from these findings that are perhaps worthy of further consideration:

• Does the small percentage of first-winter birds that remain in our Region throughout the winter period, originate from local breeding populations? If so, could this be a case of them remaining here having inherited a non-migratory instinct from their evolving parents? • On the other hand, could these same birds be long distance travellers from elsewhere that choose to winter here in the UK, and thereby having completed their migratory journey? • I feel that it would be a worthwhile exercise in determining the movements/whereabouts of immature Lesser Black-backed Gulls if these birds were recorded more thoroughly in age/ year related subadult plumage. • Sightings of immature birds during the spring and early summer period that are remote from breeding colonies would be of particular interest.

The journey taken by locally reared juvenile birds after their initial post breeding dispersal, could well be reflected in that made by GV43844, with Portugal and quite probably beyond, being their intended destination. Ringing recoveries will certainly provide a greater insight into the lifestyle of immature Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Special thanks go to those who provided valuable information concerning age related numbers of birds at regional roosts, together with adding their own educated comments. Without these facts this dialogue would be difficult to progress. Alan Dean (A historic review of his personal regional gull studies together with research related prompts) Terry Hinett (Bartley Res), Tim Marlow (Draycote Water), Steve Nuttall (Belvide Res), Ian Ward (Chasewater Res).

226 Selected List of Recoveries involving the WMBC Area Entries are arranged by species and, within species, by recovery date. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 2018 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years.

Key

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

Canada Goose 5238822 Pull 26-06-2004 Tamworth Staffs vv 11-11-2018 Tamworth Staffs 2km 14y 4m 16d

5262098 Ad 28-06-2011 Chew Valley Lake Somerset ? 18-03-2018 Doxey Marshes, Stafford Staffs 167km 6y 8m 18d

5099396 Pull 25-06-1981 Newbold Revel Warks x 27-01-2018 Coombe Abbey Warks 5km 36y 7m 2d

Greylag Goose 5136545 Ad 03-02-2008 Bredons Hardwick Worcs x 09-05-2018 Kemerton Lake NR Worcs 3km 10y 3m 6d

5252759 Fg 24-02-2011 Sutton Park WMids vv 17-02-2018 Sutton Park WMids 2km 6y 11m 24d

5280006 Ad 26-06-2016 Bowness-on-Windermere Cumbria vv 18-10-2018 Coventry City Centre WMids 236km 2y 3m 22d

Mute Swan W04008 1Y F 17-12-2000 King’s Lock, Middlewick Cheshire vv 25-03-2013 Knypersley Res Staffs 21km 12y 3m 8d vv 13-10-2016 Holden Lane Pool Staffs 24km 15y 9m 26d x 12-12-2018 Ball Green Staffs 22km 17y 11m 25d

W09774 Ad F 07-11-2002 Winterley, Sandbach Cheshire v 05-08-2014 Birchenwood Pools Staffs 12km 11y 8m 29d v 29-07-2016 Birchenwood Pools Staffs 12km 13y 8m 22d v 21-01-2018 Westport Lake Staffs 13km 15y 2m 14d

W15269 1Y 13-08-2005 near Camp Farm Warks x 06-09-2018 University of Warwick Warks 3km 13y 0m 24d

W23167 1Y M 17-10-2007 Shakerley Mere Cheshire x 16-01-2018 River Avon, Warwick Warks 120km 10y 2m 30d

W23167 1Y M 17-10-2007 Shakerley Mere Cheshire x 16-01-2018 River Avon Warwick Warks 120km 10y 2m 30d

227

W20470 Ad M 15-09-2007 River Severn, Worcester Worcs x 21-01-2018 River Severn, Worcester Worcs 0km 10y 4m 6d

W25029 2Y 21-05-2008 River Severn, Worcester Worcs v 12-06-2015 Grimley GP Worcs 5km 7y 0m 22d x 02-01-2018 Worcester Worcs 0km 9y 7m 12d

W18023 Pull M 01-08-2004 WMids vv 17-11-2018 Chillington Staffs 13km 14y 3m 16d

W15269 1Y 13-08-2005 near Camp Farm Warks x 06-09-2018 University of Warwick Warks 3km 13y 0m 24d

ZZ8529 Pull F 15-09-2008 Priorslee Lake Shrops vv 19-10-2018 Ryders Mere, Clayhanger WMids 31km 10y 1m 4d

Mallard GR54303 1Y M 26-06-2012 Knypersley Res Staffs v 29-01-2018 Knypersley Res Staffs 0km 5y 7m 3d

GR74856 Ad M 12-08-2015 Bateswood Pool Staffs + 23-11-2018 Audley Staffs 2km 3y 3m 11d

Teal 6423748 Ad F 20-10-2016 Reningsverket, Brynas Sweden + 27-10-2018 Brocton Staffs 1,457km 2y 0m 7d

Shag 1484861 Pull 17-06-2017 Midland Island Pembrokeshire x 16-02-2018 Draycote Water Warks 277km 0y 7m 30d

Cormorant 5282048 Pull 25-06-2017 Puffin Island Anglesey x 21-04-2018 Wyre Piddle Worcs 187km 0y 9m 27d

Spoonbill 8057528 Pull 22-07-2014 Oosterkwelder The Netherlands vv 30-05-2018 Confidential Site Lincs 398km 3y 10m 8d vv 04-07-2018 Blithfield Res Staffs 550km 3y 11m 12d

Little Egret GR47562 Pull 19-06-2013 Penrhyn Castle, Bangor Gwynedd vv 02-02-2014 Tittesworth Res Staffs 139km 0y 7m 14d vv 21-02-2015 Neston Marsh Cheshire 67km 1y 8m 2d vv 17-02-2018 Tittesworth Res Staffs 139km 4y 7m 29d

Sparrowhawk DT23941 1Y M 08-03-2016 Hednesford Hills Staffs + 26-04-2018 Cannock Staffs 1km 2y 1m 18d

DE22963 Ad M 04-12-2016 Redditch Worcs + 11-04-2018 Arrow Valley Park Worcs 3km 1y 4m 7d

ET87002 1Y F 01-12-2016 The Fox, Bransford Worcs x 13-04-2018 Worcester Worcs 4km 1y 4m 12d

228 Coot GR25199 Ad 28-11-2010 Westport Lake Staffs vv 19-01-2012 Westport Lake Staffs 0km 1y 1m 22d v 07-01-2016 Central Forest Park Staffs 4km 5y 1m 10d vv 14-09-2016 Ormsgill Res Cumbria 137km 5y 9m 17d vv 30-11-2016 Central Forest Park Staffs 4km 6y 0m 2d vv 23-01-2018 Central Forest Park Staffs 4km 7y 1m 26d

GR54328 Ad 12-12-2012 Westport Lake Staffs v 04-10-2018 Westport Lake Staffs 0km 5y 9m 22d

GR54341 1Y 16-10-2013 Westport Lake Staffs v 01-12-2018 Trentham Lake Staffs 10km 5y 1m 15d

GR54339 1Y 03-10-2013 Westport Lake Staffs vv 12-11-2018 Westport Lake Staffs 0km 5y 1m 9d

Oystercatcher FV59653 Pull 16-05-2017 Brandon Marsh Warks vv 26-07-2018 Dawlish Warren Devon 241km 1y 2m 10d

Little Ringed Plover Leg flag Fg 22/07/2016 Tancat de Milia, Valencia Spain vv 05/05/2018 Blithfield Res Staffs

Lapwing DD26486 Pull 04-07-2017 Retford Notts x 02-03-2018 Swynnerton Old Park Staffs 97km 0y 7m 26d

Knot SR77213 Fg 22-09-2017 Altcar Merseyside vv 22-09-2018 Blithfied Res Staffs 1y 0m 0d

Black-headed Gull 6430508 Ad 01-06-2009 Poldammsparken, Malmo Sweden vv 29-01-2014 Central Forest Park Stafffs 1,023km 4y 7m 28d vv 11-10-2018 Central Forest Park Stafffs 1,023km 9y 4m 10d

EY64515 Pull 16-06-2013 Nar Valley Fisheries Norfolk x 13-11-2018 Endon Staffs 181km 5y 4m 28d

IA173608 Pull 16-05-2017 Inseln Bohmke Und Werder Germany vv 24-03-2018 Belvide Res Staffs 1,085km 0y 10m 8d

EY85303 Ad 21-03-2015 Pitsea Landfill Site Essex vv 24-03-2017 Rumbula Latvia 1,643km 2y 0m 3d vv 04-03-2018 Kingsgate Park Yate Gloucs 202km 2y 11m 11d vv 11-07-2018 Olton Mere WMids 187km 3y 3m 20d vv 20-10-2018 Earlswood Warks 185km 3y 6m 29d

EY77760 Ad 02-01-2015 Rainham Tip Greater London vv 19-01-2018 Bexley Tip Gtr London 3km 3y 0m 17d vv 14-11-2018 Kingsbury WP Warks 177km 3y 10m 12d

EZ66018 Pull 13-06-2018 Blashford Lakes Hampshire vv 22-07-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 167km 0y 1m 9d

229 EY85025 Ad 07-02-2015 Pitsea Landfill Site Essex vv 18-11-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 163km 3y 9m 11d

EY45614 Ad 08-03-2014 Pitsea Landfill Site Essex vv 26-07-2015 Brandon Marsh Warks 163km 1y 4m 18d vv 21-07-2016 Brandon Marsh Warks 163km 2y 4m 13d vv 31-01-2018 Swanswell Pool, Coventry WMids 169km 3y 10m 23d vv 17-07-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 163km 4y 4m 9d

EZ70518 Ad 14-01-2017 Pitsea Landfill Site Essex vv 17-07-2017 Hazelwood Marshes Suffolk 101km 0y 6m 3d vv 05-07-2018 Upton Warren Worcs 198km 1y 5m 21d

ST234645 Pull 24-06-2003 Eura, Turku-Pori Finland vv 21-03-2015 Lowestoft Suffolk 1,553km 11y 8m 25d x 05-03-2018 Moseley WMids 1,734km 14y 8m 9d

EX10623 Pull 12-06-2009 Somerford Keynes Gloucs vv 15-11-2010 Hayle Estuary Cornwall 294km 1y 5m 3d vv 25-04-2018 Marsh Lane NR WMids 87km 8y 10m 13d

ST234645 Pull 24-06-2003 Eura, Turku-Pori Finland vv 21-03-2015 Lowestoft Suffolk 1,553km 11y 8m 25d x 05-03-2018 Moseley WMids 1,734km 14y 8m 9d

FS15863 Pull 17-06-2018 Rez. Jezioro Druzno Poland vv 15-08-2018 Marsh Lane NR WMids 1,412km 0y 1m 29d

Mediterranean Gull FS06142 Pull 10-06-2015 Przykona Poland vv 14-10-2015 Whitegate, Cork Harbour Cork 1,834km 0y 4m 4d vv 07-01-2018 Marsh Lane NR WMids 1,382km 2y 6m 28d

FS02041 Ad 19-05-2013 Zb. Nysa, Wojcice Poland vv 21-02-2018 Marsh Lane NR WMids 1,326km 4y 9m 2d

Herring Gull GV31960 2Y 26-02-2016 Rufforth Waste Disposal York vv 09-01-2018 Stubbers Green Aldridge WMids 159km 1y 10m 14d

Lesser Black-backed Gull FP03029 Ad 12-04-1997 Risley, Warrington Chesh x 07-08-2018 near Great Wyrley Staffs 93km 21y 3m 26d

FP86608 Ad 05-02-2007 near Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 24-01-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 0y 11m 19d vv 15-04-2008 Stoke Orchard Landfill Site Gloucs 0km 1y 2m 10d vv 20-05-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 1y 3m 15d vv 15-06-2008 Stoke Orchard Landfill Site Gloucs 0km 1y 4m 10d vv 19-06-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 1y 4m 14d vv 18-12-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 1y 10m 13d vv 18-12-2008 Stoke Orchard Landfill Site Gloucs 0km 1y 10m 13d vv 05-11-2009 near Stoke Orchard Gloucs 1km 2y 9m 0d vv 12-05-2010 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 3y 3m 7d vv 01-11-2010 Silverdale Colliery Staffs 120km 3y 8m 27d vv 09-02-2012 Priorslee Lake, Telford Shrops 85km 5y 0m 4d vv 18-12-2018 Belvide Res Staffs 83km 11y 10m 13d

FH21456 Ad 22-11-2008 near Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 26-11-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 0y 0m 4d

230 vv 03-12-2010 Priorslee Lake, Telford Shrops 85km 2y 0m 11d vv 09-02-2012 Priorslee Lake, Telford Shrops 85km 3y 2m 18d vv 17-01-2013 Silverdale Staffs 120km 4y 1m 26d vv 23-01-2013 Horsehay Pool, Horsehay Telford 84km 4y 2m 1d vv 14-10-2013 Carsington Water Derbys 128km 4y 10m 22d vv 10-09-2015 Stubbers Green WMids 76km 6y 9m 19d vv 14-12-2018 Walleys Landfill Staffs 118km 10y 0m 22d

FH21475 Ad 06-12-2008 near Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 06-04-2009 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 0y 4m 0d vv 13-05-2009 Westport Lake Staffs 124km 0y 5m 7d vv 07-12-2012 Westport Lake Staffs 124km 4y 0m 1d vv 02-02-2015 Parc Marismas Del Odiel Spain 1,677km 6y 1m 27d vv 09-02-2015 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 6y 2m 3d vv 25-09-2015 Silverdale CP Staffs 120km 6y 9m 19d vv 04-08-2017 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 8y 7m 29d vv 11-01-2018 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 9y 1m 5d

FH21475 Ad 06-12-2008 Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 06-04-2009 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 0y 4m 0d vv 13-05-2009 Westport Lake Staffs 124km 0y 5m 7d vv 07-12-2012 Westport Lake Staffs 124km 4y 0m 1d vv 02-02-2015 Parc Marismas Del Odiel Spain 1,677km 6y 1m 27d vv 09-02-2015 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 6y 2m 3d vv 25-09-2015 Silverdale CP Staffs 120km 6y 9m 19d vv 04-08-2017 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 8y 7m 29d vv 11-01-2018 Westport Lake Staffs 123km 9y 1m 5d

FH21456 Ad 22-11-2008 near Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 26-11-2008 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs 16km 0y 0m 4d vv 03-12-2010 Priorslee Lake, Telford Shrops 85km 2y 0m 11d vv 09-02-2012 Priorslee Lake, Telford Shrops 85km 3y 2m 18d vv 17-01-2013 Silverdale Staffs 120km 4y 1m 26d vv 23-01-2013 Horsehay Pool, Horsehay Telford 84km 4y 2m 1d vv 14-10-2013 Carsington Water Derbys 128km 4y 10m 22d vv 10-09-2015 Stubbers Green WMids 76km 6y 9m 19d vv 14-12-2018 Walleys Landfill Staffs 118km 10y 0m 22d

FA91263 Ad 11-11-1996 near Hempsted, Gloucester Gloucs + 04-03-2018 Hartshill, Nuneaton Warks 94km 21y 3m 21d

FA39916 Ad 15-10-2011 Rainham Tip Greater London vv 15-07-2013 Fohr Germany 664km 1y 9m 0d vv 09-09-2016 St Peter-Ording Germany 644km 4y 10m 25d vv 23-09-2017 Amrum Germany 646km 5y 11m 8d x 23-01-2018 Draycote Water Warks 140km 6y 3m 8d

FH21371 Ad 22-11-2008 Stoke Orchard Gloucs vv 16-07-2009 Bowley, Great Harwood Lancs 208km 0y 7m 24d vv 03-11-2009 Grundon Landfill Site Gloucs 1km 0y 11m 12d vv 14-02-2013 Albion Landfill Site Leics 98km 4y 2m 23d vv 05-07-2017 Murdieston Dam Renfrew 477km 8y 7m 13d vv 28-11-2018 Upton Warren Worcs 40km 10y 0m 6d

GV53145 Ad M 30-07-2017 The Quilts, Leith Edinburgh + 17-03-2018 Pershore Worcs 436km 0y 7m 15d

GC48197 Pull 28-06-2009 Gloucester Gloucs + 14-06-2018 Selly Oak WMids 68km 8y 11m 17d

231 GV43844 Pull 25-06-2018 Birmingham WMids x 31-10-2018 Gafanha da Nazaré Portugal 1,418km 0y 4m 6d

Great Black-backed Gull 389300 Pull 13-07-2000 Glana, Mandal Norway vv 14-03-2010 Newtown IoW 994km 9y 8m 1d x 12-01-2018 Draycote Water Warks 844km 17y 5m 30d

HW93627 Ad 20-02-2012 Daneshill Landfill Site Notts vv 19-01-2013 Horsehay Pool Denbigh 161km 0y 10m 30d vv 11-02-2013 Stubbers Green, Aldridge WMids 106km 0y 11m 22d vv 07-03-2014 Richmond Bank Chesh 112km 2y 0m 15d vv 15-01-2018 Stubbers Green, Aldridge WMids 106km 5y 10m 26d

Common Tern SR43406 Pull 02-07-2005 Thatcham Marsh West Berks x 29-05-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 109km 12y 10m 27d

Stock Dove EK07646 Ad F 20-08-2014 Northbrook Warks v 26-06-2018 Northbrook Warks 0km 3y 10m 6d

Woodpigeon FP00987 Ad 11-02-2012 Old Storridge Common Worcs v 17-02-2018 Alfrick Pound Worcs 1km 6y 0m 6d

FP78043 Ad 23-07-2015 Daisy Bank, Walsall WMids v 18-10-2018 Daisy Bank, Walsall WMids 0km 3y 2m 25d

Barn Owl GC20780 Pull 22-05-2014 Derby Derby vv 01-04-2018 Lichfield Staffs 36km 3y 10m 10d

GV30589 Pull 23-05-2018 Stoke-on-Trent Staffs x 27-09-2018 Clifford’s Wood, Stone Staffs 0y 4m 4d

GV39625 Pull F 24-06-2017 near Preston-on-Stour Warks x 24-07-2018 Leigh Kent 170km 1y 1m 0d

GR63219 Pull F 04-07-2013 Newborough Peterborough v 16-08-2015 Hill Farm Warks 114km 2y 1m 12d v 12-06-2018 Atherstone Hill Farm Warks 114km 4y 11m 8d

GH21342 Pull 23-06-2016 Naunton Beauchamp Worcs x 01-06-2018 , Pershore Worcs 4km 1y 11m 9d

GV63719 Pull 26-06-2018 near Fladbury Worcs ? 14-09-2018 Cropthorne Worcs 1km 0y 2m 19d

GV63661 Pull 01-07-2018 Fromebridge Gloucs x 08-09-2018 Worcester Worcs 48km 0y 2m 7d

GV41178 Pull 06-07-2016 near Towcester Northants x 29-03-2018 Solihull WMids 59km 1y 8m 23d

GV66088 Pull F 09-07-2018 Holly Grange WMids x 15-08-2018 Holly Grange WMids 0km 0y 1m 6d

232 Tawny Owl GR65658 1Y 09-06-2012 near Stretton on Fosse Warks x 01-10-2018 Batsford Arboretum Gloucs 6km 6y 3m 22d

Little Owl EK07743 2Y F 07-06-2015 Flecknoe House Farm Warks v 30-07-2018 Flecknoe House Farm Warks 0km 3y 1m 23d

Kestrel EJ44667 Pull 06-06-2018 nr Timm’s Grove, Coughton Warks x 30-09-2018 Coughton Court, Alcester Warks 1km 0y 3m 24d

Peregrine GC46054 Pull 27-05-2012 near Fox’s Wood Somerset vv 31-05-2018 Royal Leamington Spa Warks 116km 6y 0m 4d

Jay DE00104 Ad 03-07-2014 Freehay Staffs v 01-01-2018 Freehay Staffs 0km 3y 5m 29d

Great Spotted Woodpecker RE92591 Ad F 17-02-2013 Woodcote Green Worcs v 18-02-2018 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 1km 5y 0m 1d

LH25063 1Y M 15-04-2015 Lion Wood Worcs v 04-07-2018 Lion Wood Worcs 0km 3y 2m 19d

LC80917 1Y M 05-04-2014 Blythe Valley WMids v 14-04-2018 Blythe Valley WMids 0km 4y 0m 9d

LJ10807 Ad M 18-11-2014 Boldmere WMids v 07-02-2018 Maney, Sutton Coldfield WMids 1km 3y 2m 20d

RC68725 2Y M 06-07-2015 Daisy Bank, Walsall WMids x 28-06-2018 Walsall WMids 1km 2y 11m 22d

Coal Tit Z138129 1Y 10-11-2014 Draycott in The Clay Staffs x 30-09-2018 Marchington Staffs 1km 3y 10m 20d

S204952 Pull 10-05-2017 near Catton Hall Derbys x 11-04-2018 Branston Staffs 5km 0y 11m 1d

Z040208 1Y F 30-12-2014 Hampton Lucy Warks v 27-11-2018 Hampton Lucy Warks 0km 3y 10m 28d

D581042 Juv 18-08-2013 Woodcote Green Worcs v 22-01-2018 Woodcote Green Worcs 0km 4y 5m 4d

Z575618 1Y M 27-09-2015 Roundhill Wood Worcs v 28-10-2018 Roundhill Wood Worcs 0km 3y 1m 1d

Marsh Tit Y310381 1Y F 23-11-2014 Upper Colwall Hereford v 12-05-2018 Park Wood Worcs 2km 3y 5m 19d

233 Blue Tit Y410432 1Y 01-12-2011 Draycott in The Clay Staffs v 08-01-2018 Draycott in The Clay Staffs 0km 6y 1m 7d

Y410496 1Y 30-10-2012 Draycott in The Clay Staffs v 06-02-2018 Draycott in The Clay Staffs 0km 5y 3m 7d

X918968 1Y 08-01-2010 Kenilworth Warks + 12-04-2018 Kenilworth Warks 1km 8y 3m 4d

Y606710 Fg F 29-03-2012 Priors Marston Warks v 09-05-2018 Priors Marston Warks 0km 6y 1m 10d

Y262946 1Y F 23-07-2012 Middleton Warks v 27-06-2018 Middleton Warks 0km 5y 11m 4d

Y606816 Ad 08-11-2012 Priors Marston Warks v 19-03-2018 Priors Marston Warks 0km 5y 4m 11d

L180140 1Y M 10-11-2010 Coalpit Coppice Worcs v 18-02-2018 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 0km 7y 3m 8d

Y889903 Juv 05-08-2012 Malvern Wells Worcs v 01-12-2018 Malvern Wells Worcs 0km 6y 3m 26d

Y808149 Pull 26-05-2012 Santery Hill Wood Worcs v 13-01-2013 Chaddesley Wood Worcs 0km 0y 7m 18d v 19-02-2017 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 1km 4y 8m 24d v 21-04-2018 Santery Hill Wood Worcs 0km 5y 10m 26d

Y860334 Pull M 31-05-2013 Roundhill Wood Worcs v 02-12-2018 Roundhill Wood Worcs 0km 5y 6m 1d

Great Tit V871176 1Y F 09-11-2014 Freehay Staffs v 30-11-2014 Freehay Staffs 0km 0y 0m 21d v 11-01-2018 Freehay Staffs 0km 3y 2m 2d

TR18034 Pull M 20-05-2011 Chaddesley Wood Worcs v 18-10-2011 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 1km 0y 4m 28d v 31-08-2018 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 1km 7y 3m 11d

L181116 1Y F 18-10-2011 Coalpit Coppice Worcs v 31-08-2018 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 0km 6y 10m 13d

TR17431 Pull M 15-05-2011 Coalpit Coppice Worcs v 18-02-2018 Coalpit Coppice Worcs 0km 6y 9m 3d

Y627521 Ad M 06-05-2012 Old Storridge Common Worcs v 04-12-2018 Old Storridge Common Worcs 0km 6y 6m 28d

TT76610 Juv 02-06-2014 St Nicholas-At-Wade Kent x 13-07-2018 Worcester Worcs 259km 4y 1m 11d

L686232 Ad M 11-11-2012 Sandwell Valley WMids x 18-08-2018 Sandwell Valley WMids 1km 5y 9m 7d

234 Cetti’s Warbler

ANC5912 Juv F 23-06-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks v 20-10-2018 Oxwich Marsh Swansea 207km 0y 3m 27d

Z438219 Fg F 26-04-2015 Brandon Marsh Warks v 01-07-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 0km 3y 2m 5d

Z647757 Juv M 11-07-2015 Brandon Marsh Warks v 25-11-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 0km 3y 4m 14d

Long-tailed Tit HDT722 Fg 05-01-2015 Draycott in The Clay Staffs v 08-01-2018 Draycott in The Clay Staffs 0km 3y 0m 3d

HDT721 Fg 05-01-2015 Draycott in The Clay Staffs v 08-01-2018 Draycott in The Clay Staffs 0km 3y 0m 3d

EJL702 Fg 30-03-2012 Priors Marston Warks v 04-02-2018 Priors Marston Warks 0km 5y 10m 5d

DTH746 1Y M 07-06-2013 Middleton Warks v 19-08-2018 Middleton Warks 0km 5y 2m 12d

HHN527 Fg 30-11-2017 Little Aston, Birmingham WMids v 10-03-2018 Bidston, Wirral Merseysd 122km 0y 3m 8d

HHN528 Fg 30-11-2017 Little Aston, Birmingham WMids v 10-03-2018 Bidston, Wirral Merseysd 122km 0y 3m 8d

Willow Warbler HPD526 Fg M 20-04-2015 Tittesworth Res Staffs v 04-05-2018 Tittesworth Res Staffs 0km 3y 0m 14d

Chiffchaff JVE497 1Y 03-09-2018 Tittesworth Res Staffs v 25-09-2018 Chilling, Warsash Hamps 260km 0y 0m 22d

HKL540 1Y M 03-08-2014 Castlemorton Common Worcs v 27-08-2018 Castlemorton Common Worcs 0km 4y 0m 24d

KHL571 1Y 20-08-2017 Crabtree Hill Gloucs v 14-04-2018 Ryall Worcs 36km 0y 7m 25d

Sedge Warbler S633234 1Y 18-07-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 24-07-2018 Tour Aux Moutons France 598km 0y 0m 6d

S633934 1Y 29-08-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 06-09-2018 Trunvel, Treogat France 556km 0y 0m 8d

S633961 1Y 29-08-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 12-09-2018 Tour Aux Moutons France 598km 0y 0m 14d

S633234 1Y 18-07-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 24-07-2018 Tour Aux Moutons France 598km 0y 0m 6d

235 AVB0536 1Y 31-07-2018 East of Aqualate Mere Staffs v 27-08-2018 L’etang Des Landes, Lussat France 807km 0y 0m 27d

S633934 1Y 29-08-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 06-09-2018 Trunvel, Treogat France 556km 0y 0m 8d

S633961 1Y 29-08-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 12-09-2018 Tour Aux Moutons France 598km 0y 0m 14d

Reed Warbler S189421 Ad 13-08-2017 Pett Level, Sussex East Sussex v 14-07-2018 Near Aqualate Mere Staffs 293km 0y 11m 1d

AVB0648 1Y 18-08-2018 Near Aqualate Mere Staffs v 30-08-2018 Pett Level, Sussex East Sussex 293km 0y 0m 12d

S633759 1Y 22-08-2018 Belvide, near Brewood Staffs v 05-09-2018 Fish Lake Meadows Hamps 195km 0y 0m 14d

S477183 1Y 22-09-2016 Titchfield Haven Hamps v 03-06-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 174km 1y 8m 12d

AND0305 Ad M 01-08-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks v 04-08-2018 Noyant, Soulaire-Et-Bourg France 540km 0y 0m 3d

AND0305 Ad M 01-08-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks v 04-08-2018 Noyant, Soulaire-Et-Bourg France 540km 0y 0m 3d

Y889885 1Y M 02-08-2012 Oakley Worcs v 25-06-2018 Oakley Worcs 0km 5y 10m 23d

S609233 Pull 30-06-2017 Thorngrove Lake Worcs v 05-07-2018 Thorngrove Lake Worcs 0km 1y 0m 5d v 26-07-2018 Sandwich Bay Estate Kent 273km 1y 0m 26d

S496100 1Y 01-08-2018 Marsh Lane NR WMids v 08-09-2018 Titchfield Haven NNR Hamps 181km 0y 1m 7d

Blackcap S633906 1Y M 29-08-2018 Belvide Res Staffs v 13-09-2018 Sandwich Bay Estate Kent 292km 0y 0m 15d

S633305 1Y 21-07-2018 Belvide Res Staffs v 01-09-2018 Haxton Down Wilts 163km 0y 1m 11d

D733595 Juv 08-07-2014 Ringinglow, Sheffield South Yorks + 16-04-2018 Doxey Marshes Staffs 71km 3y 9m 8d

ACA0051 Juv F 17-07-2017 Brandon Marsh Warks v 12-05-2018 Lista Fyr, Farsund Norway 814km 0y 9m 25d

S990330 1Y F 23-08-2017 Countesthorpe STW Leics v 05-05-2018 Middleton Warks 40km 0y 8m 12d

AVE0503 1Y M 27-09-2018 Upton upon Severn STW Worcs v 06-10-2018 Sandwich Bay Estate Kent 264km 0y 0m 9d

Z523227 2Y M 24-05-2015 Three Counties Showgrnd Worcs v 17-06-2018 Three Counties Showgrnd Worcs 0km 3y 0m 24d

236 AEB1550 1Y M 22-09-2017 Keyhaven Marshes Hampshire x 08-04-2018 Solihull WMids 189km 0y 6m 17d

Garden Warbler S633209 1Y 14-07-2018 Belvide Res Staffs v 30-08-2018 Bellows Mill Beds 144km 0y 1m 16d

Whitethroat D863040 Juv F 13-07-2014 Poolbrook WTW Worcs v 06-05-2018 Poolbrook WTW Worcs 0km 3y 9m 23d

JCD792 Juv 13-08-2016 Malvern Wells Worcs v 13-02-2018 Upton upon Severn STW Worcs 7km 1y 6m 0d

Goldcrest KPK101 1Y M 05-10-2018 Crombie Park, Carnoustie Angus v 20-10-2018 Streetly, Little Aston WMids 444km 0y 0m 15d

Wren HCN621 2Y F 15-06-2014 Brandon Marsh Warks v 11-08-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 0km 4y 1m 27d

JRC130 2Y M 24-05-2017 Thorngrove Lake Worcs x 12-06-2018 Thorngrove Lake Worcs 0km 1y 0m 19d

TS40314 Fg M 18-09-2013 Lion Wood Worcs v 09-05-2018 Lion Wood Worcs 0km 4y 7m 21d

Starling RC69162 1Y M 22-11-2014 Ashmore Lake WMids x 08-03-2018 Essington Staffs 4km 3y 3m 14d

LJ42845 Ad M 22-05-2016 Church Lane, Coven Staffs x 01-05-2018 Coven, Wolverhampton Staffs 1km 1y 11m 9d

7921797 Pull 12-05-2018 Nordhastedt Germany v 13-11-2018 Oakley Worcs 781km 0y 6m 1d

RC69162 1Y M 22-11-2014 Ashmore Lake WMids + 08-03-2018 Essington Staffs 4km 3y 3m 14d

Blackbird RP43413 2Y M 20-06-2014 Tittesworth Res Staffs v 29-06-2018 Tittesworth Res Staffs 0km 4y 0m 9d

4684029 Ad M 16-03-2017 Nidingen, Hallands Lan Halland x 25-03-2018 Alcester Warks 1,046km 1y 0m 9d

CT92144 1Y M 26-04-2008 Kidderminster Worcs v 04-08-2018 Kidderminster Worcs 0km 10y 3m 9d

CT92741 Ad M 01-05-2011 Old Storridge Common Worcs v 16-10-2018 Old Storridge Common Worcs 0km 7y 5m 15d

LC66158 1Y M 22-10-2011 Castlemorton Common Worcs v 14-05-2018 Castlemorton Common Worcs 0km 6y 6m 22d

237 CT92818 Ad M 12-05-2013 Poolbrook WTW Worcs v 08-07-2018 Poolbrook WTW Worcs 0km 5y 1m 26d

L524294 Ad M 27-10-2017 Reddingbootpad The Netherlands v 11-01-2018 Leigh Sinton Worcs 505km 0y 2m 15d

LB23339 1Y M 23-12-2010 Stourbridge WMids v 02-03-2012 Stourbridge WMids 0km 1y 2m 8d v 24-05-2018 Wollescote WMids 3km 7y 5m 1d

JA577916 Ad M 20-11-2011 Dunes du Fort Vert, Marck France vv 26-01-2018 Hall Green WMids 305km 6y 2m 6d

JA577916 Ad M 20-11-2011 Dunes du Fort Vert, Marck France vv 26-01-2018 Hall Green WMids 305km 6y 2m 6d

Redwing H372708 1Y 23-10-2018 de Cocksdorp, Texel The Netherlands v 25-11-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 427km 0y 1m 2d

RZ76627 1Y 30-10-2018 Nettleton Beck Lincs v 19-11-2018 Little Aston WMids 143km 0y 0m 20d

Mistle Thrush LB56035 1Y 24-11-2015 Chillington Hall Staffs ? 06-05-2018 Chillington Hall Staffs 1km 2y 5m 12d

Robin T019474 Juv 07-08-2015 Tittesworth Res Staffs x 26-03-2018 Meerbrook Staffs 1km 2y 7m 19d

Y998325 1Y 30-11-2012 Wolverton Warks v 17-02-2018 Wolverton Warks 0km 5y 2m 18d

D858268 1Y 26-11-2014 Daisy Bank, Walsall WMids v 19-10-2018 Daisy Bank, Walsall WMids 0km 3y 10m 23d

Z283234 1Y 06-09-2015 Blythe Valley WMids v 24-11-2018 Blythe Valley WMids 0km 3y 2m 18d

Pied Flycatcher S986081 Pull 11-06-2017 The Hurst Shrops v 22-05-2018 Bearda Staffs 107km 0y 11m 11d

D573772 Pull F 03-06-2014 Lower Minnend Cheshire v 21-05-2015 Bearda Staffs 3km 0y 11m 18d v 23-05-2016 Bearda Staffs 3km 1y 11m 20d v 18-05-2017 Bearda Staffs 3km 2y 11m 15d v 27-05-2018 Bearda Staffs 2km 3y 11m 24d

Y977982 Pull 08-06-2014 Bearda Staffs v 23-05-2016 Bearda Staffs 0km 1y 11m 15d v 26-05-2017 Bearda Staffs 0km 2y 11m 18d v 17-05-2018 Bearda Staffs 0km 3y 11m 9d

S759437 Pull 13-06-2018 Bearda Staffs + 28-06-2018 Wincle Staffs 1km 0y 0m 15d

238 House Sparrow TC18944 Pull F 01-07-2012 Bunkers Hill Warks x 22-06-2018 Bunkers Hill Warks 0km 5y 11m 21d

Dunnock NY10574 1Y 12-02-2017 Fradley Junction Staffs v 24-12-2018 Dunstall Park Racecourse WMids 27km 1y 10m 12d

TV00264 1Y M 28-09-2014 Brandon Marsh Warks v 07-02-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 0km 3y 4m 10d

TZ57832 Juv 18-09-2016 Brandon Marsh Warks x 29-03-2018 Ryton-on-Dunsmore Warks 1km 1y 6m 11d

X872877 1Y 21-03-2010 Ipsley, Redditch Worcs v 20-04-2018 Ipsley, Redditch Worcs 0km 8y 0m 30d

Rock Pipit EL00472 1Y M 14-09-2018 Maletangen, Fraena Norway vv 13-10-2018 Belvide Res Staffs 1,265km 0y 0m 29d

Pied Wagtail AJB8140 1Y 08-11-2017 Leigh Sinton Worcs v 22-10-2018 Oakley Worcs 14km 0y 11m 14d

Greenfinch TZ94367 1Y F 12-03-2016 Bonehill Staffs + 02-08-2018 Fazeley, Tamworth Staffs 0km 2y 4m 21d

TX35265 Ad M 29-12-2013 Redditch Worcs x 03-07-2018 Redditch Worcs 2km 4y 6m 4d

TA77813 Ad F 03-12-2017 Poolbrook Water Works Worcs v 17-11-2018 Glenmore Farm, Wick Worcs 18km 0y 11m 14d

Bullfinch Z898803 2Y F 24-08-2016 Blythe Valley WMids v 01-04-2017 Blythe Valley WMids 0km 0y 7m 8d v 17-02-2018 Blythe Valley WMids 0km 1y 5m 24d x 04-05-2018 Cheswick Green WMids 1km 1y 8m 10d

Lesser Redpoll Y791328 1Y F 20-04-2016 Cannock Chase Staffs v 21-02-2018 Earlswood Warks 47km 1y 10m 1d

Goldfinch Z113229 1Y M 26-09-2015 Light Oaks Staffs v 26-12-2018 Light Oaks Staffs 0km 3y 3m 0d

S874174 Fg F 16-04-2017 Shebster Highland x 19-01-2018 Tilehouse Green WMids 698km 0y 9m 3d

Siskin Z738389 1Y F 11-04-2016 Cressage, near Shrewsbury v 08-02-2018 Earlswood Warks 60km 1y 9m 28d

239 Reed Bunting Z689450 1Y F 16-02-2018 Chelmarsh Res Shrops x 28-03-2018 Hazleslade Staffs 38km 0y 1m 12d

Y998384 1Y M 16-01-2013 Wolverton Warks v 24-03-2018 Wolverton Warks 0km 5y 2m 8d

D565996 Fg F 23-11-2013 Brandon Marsh Warks v 19-12-2018 Brandon Marsh Warks 0km 5y 0m 26d

D197469 1Y F 01-01-2013 Glenmore Farm, Wick Worcs v 12-01-2018 Glenmore Farm, Wick Worcs 0km 5y 0m 11d

Z440489 Ad F 14-03-2015 Glenmore Farm, Wick Worcs v 10-12-2018 Glenmore Farm, Wick Worcs 0km 3y 8m 26d

AZD3515 1Y 13-08-2018 Oakley Worcs v 22-12-2018 Shifnal STW Shrops 49km 0y 4m 9d

240 The following tables show all species in categories A to C of The British List that have been reliably recorded in the area covered by the current boundaries of the four counties of the Region since records were kept. The Regional total as at December 31st 2018 was 345. The year shown is the latest in which the species has been observed in each county while nk (not known) refers to reliable, but undated, 19th century records. Subspecies or races are shown in italics and they, along with known escapes, are not included in the totals.

Details The Details column is used to indicate for which species a description or supporting details are required. As the status of each species is not necessarily the same across the four counties, a description or supporting details may be required for some counties but not for others. The level of detail required will, of course, vary with the species concerned; some requiring only a brief sentence while other, rarer species, more detailed notes. However, if the bird you are claiming is unfamiliar to you, or you are unsure of its identity, then don’t be afraid to send in a description - even if it is not requested. An up-to-date list of birds requiring a description can be found on the Club’s website.

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

241 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Brent Goose Branta bernicla A 2018 2017 2018 2018

Pale-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota A 2005 2008 2017 0

Canada Goose Branta canadensis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Greylag Goose Anser anser 2018 2018 2018 2018

Taiga Bean Goose Anser fabilis A 0 2014 0 0

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Tundra Bean Goose Anser serrirostris A 2017 2011 2017 2016

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons A 2018 2018 2018 2017

Greenland White-f Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris A 2017 2018 2017 0

Mute Swan Cygnus olor 2018 2018 2018 2018

Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus A 2018 2016 2017 2018

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna 2018 2018 2018 2018

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata 2018 2018 2018 2018

Garganey Spatula querquedula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Blue-winged Teal Spatula discors BBRC 1989 1989 2001 0

Shoveler Spatula clypeata 2018 2018 2018 2018

Gadwall Mareca strepera 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eurasian Wigeon Mareca penelope 2018 2018 2018 2018

American Wigeon Mareca americana A 2002 2018 2016 0

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 2018 2018 2018 2018

Pintail Anas acuta 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca 2018 2018 2018 2018

Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis A 2014 2017 2018 0

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina WM 2018 2018 2018 2014

Common Pochard Aythya ferina 2018 2018 2018 2018

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca A 2007 2006 2010 1998

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris A 2006 2005 2016 2001

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Greater Scaup Aythya marila 2017 2018 2018 2017

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis A 2010 2016 2014 0

Common Eider Somateria mollissima A 1993 2011 2011 1993

Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata A 1986 2000 0 0

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca A 2005 1985 2017 2013

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis A 2017 2012 2018 2014

Bufflehead Bucephala albeola BBRC 2004 0 2004 2004

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Smew Mergellus albellus Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2016

242 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Goosander Mergus merganser 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis A 2016 2014 2018 2016

Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix A 0 1915 2012 1897

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Wo, Wa, WM 0 0 2018 1868

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa 2018 2018 2018 2018

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix A 2018 2017 2018 2018

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata A 2018 2013 2011 2018

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica A 2012 2018 2016 2011

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A 2018 2018 2018 2018

European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus A 1983 2003 1990 1970

Leach’s Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa A 2010 2006 2017 2006

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis A 2014 2000 2008 1996

Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea A 0 0 1971 0

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus A 2017 2017 2016 2016

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A 2018 2015 2018 2017

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Black Stork Ciconia nigra BBRC 0 1956 1985 0

White Stork Ciconia ciconia A 2005 2018 2018 2005

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus A 2016 2018 2018 2014

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia A 2018 2017 2018 2013

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Wo, St, WM 2018 2016 2018 2014

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus BBRC 1981 1865 1901 <1836

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax A 2015 2014 2010 2011

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides BBRC 0 2007 2004 0

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2017

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2018 2018 2018 2018

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea A 2018 2000 2005 0

Great White Egret Ardea alba Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Little Egret Egretta garzetta 2018 2018 2018 2018

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus A 2018 2018 2018 2017

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A 2018 2016 2017 2015

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 2018 2018 2018 2018

Osprey Pandion haliaetus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus A 2017 2018 2015 2014

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos A 0 0 nk 0

243 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis A 2016 2018 2018 2016

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A 2018 2018 2018 2016

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus A 2015 2009 2018 1951

Red Kite Milvus milvus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Black Kite Milvus migrans A 0 1986 1991 2012

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla A 1891 1945 1905 0

Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus A 2005 1979 2001 2015

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo 2018 2018 2018 2018

Great Bustard Otis tarda BBRC 0 c1825 0 0

Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax BBRC 0 0 c1899 <1893

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Corn Crake Crex crex A 2018 1988 2014 2017

Little Crake Porzana parva BBRC 1974 0 0 0

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana A 2018 2018 2011 2013

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Coot Fulica atra 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Crane Grus grus A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus A 2018 2010 2012 2013

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus BBRC 2015 2006 2015 2012

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 2018 2018 2018 2018

White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus BBRC 1975 0 0 0

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria 2018 2018 2018 2018

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva BBRC 0 0 2014 0

American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica A 1991 0 0 0

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 2018 2018 2018 2018

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus A 1993 1940 1995 0

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus A 2015 2018 2011 1978

Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda BBRC 1851 0 0 0

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 2018 2018 2018 2018

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica WM 2017 2017 2018 2018

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa 2018 2018 2018 2018

Turnstone Arenaria interpres WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red Knot Calidris canutus WM 2018 2016 2018 2015

Ruff Calidris pugnax WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

244 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Broad-billed Sandpiper Calidris falcinellus BBRC 2016 0 2004 0

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea WM 2016 2018 2018 2012

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii A 2016 2014 2018 2005

Sanderling Calidris alba WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Dunlin Calidris alpina 2018 2018 2018 2018

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima A 2017 2016 2016 1985

Baird’s Sandpiper Calidris bairdii BBRC 1996 2016 2005 0

Little Stint Calidris minuta WM 2018 2018 2018 2017

Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla BBRC 2002 1988 2002 0

White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis A 0 2012 2018 0

Buff-breasted Sandpiper Calidris subruficollis A 1995 0 1980 0

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos A 2018 2014 2018 2012

Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus BBRC 1983 2006 0 0

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 2018 2018 2018 2018

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Great Snipe Gallinago media BBRC <1886 0 1954 1995

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 2018 2018 2018 2018

Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor BBRC 1996 2007 0 0

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus A 2017 2018 2017 1893

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2018 2018 2018 2018

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius BBRC 2015 2011 2017 2004

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BBRC 2017 2017 2016 0

Common Redshank Tringa totanus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis BBRC 0 0 1974 0

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2016

Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2018 2018 2018 2018

Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola BBRC 1996 1994 0 0

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Sabine’s Gull Xema sabini A 2017 2016 2017 0

Bonaparte’s Gull Chroicocephalus philadelphia BBRC 1992 0 1996 2014

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Laughing Gull Larus atricilla BBRC 0 2005 0 1997

Franklin’s Gull Larus pipixcan BBRC 2008 0 2010 0

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Gull Larus canus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis A 1998 2017 2018 1996

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 2018 2018 2018 2018

245 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Kumlien’s Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni A 2015 2015 2018 2013

Herring Gull Larus argentatus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica BBRC 2006 <1901 1989 1896

Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia BBRC 1993 1971 2013 1979

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Little Tern Sternula albifrons A 2018 2017 2018 2015

Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata BBRC 0 0 1852 0

Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii A 2012 2015 2017 0

Common Tern Sterna hirundo 2018 2018 2018 2018

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 2018 2018 2018 2018

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida BBRC 2005 1994 2013 0

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus A 2016 2000 2018 1977

Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2018 2018 2018 2018

Great Skua Stercorarius skua A 2014 2010 2016 2013

Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus A 2016 1999 2012 1985

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus A 2017 2010 2015 2000

Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus A 2003 1987 2012 1991

Little Auk Alle alle A 2007 1998 2001 1999

Common Guillemot Uria aalge A nk 0 1920 1980

Razorbill Alca torda A 2017 1953 0 1912

Puffin Fratercula arctica A 1984 1963 1983 1999

Pallas’s Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus BBRC 1888 1888 1908 1888

Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2018 2018 2018 2018

Stock Dove Columba oenas 2018 2018 2018 2018

Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur A 2018 2018 2018 2012

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Barn Owl Tyto alba 2018 2018 2018 2018

Tawny Owl Strix aluco 2018 2018 2018 2018

Little Owl Athene noctua 2018 2018 2018 2018

Tengmalm’s Owl Aegolius funereus BBRC 0 1901 0 0

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2013

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Wa, Wo, WM 2013 2016 2018 2005

White-throated Needle-tail Hirundapus caudacutus BBRC 0 0 1991 0

246 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Alpine Swift Apus melba A 2003 1997 1996 2015

Common Swift Apus apus 2018 2018 2018 2018

European Roller Coracias garrulus BBRC 0 0 1908 0

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon BBRC 0 0 2005 0

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster A 2017 2007 2015 2008

Hoopoe Upupa epops A 2018 2018 2017 2016

Wryneck Jynx torquilla A 2017 2018 2018 2013

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 2018 2018 2018 2018

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major 2018 2018 2018 2018

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus A 2003 2001 2015 0

Merlin Falco columbarius WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Hobby Falco subbuteo 2018 2018 2018 2018

Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus BBRC 1852 0 <1844 0

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 2014 2015 2013 2003

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor BBRC 0 1987 0 0

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor A 2016 2017 2018 2016

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator A 2013 1893 2010 1999

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus A 2005 2000 2016 1990

Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius 2018 2018 2018 2018

Magpie Pica pica 2018 2018 2018 2018

Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes BBRC 0 0 1991 0

Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 0 1826 0 0

Jackdaw Corvus monedula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Rook Corvus frugilegus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Carrion Crow Corvus corone 2018 2018 2018 2018

Hooded Crow Corvus cornix A 1987 1983 2014 1984

Common Raven Corvus corax 2018 2018 2018 2018

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus A 2017 2017 2018 2018

Coal Tit Periparus ater 2018 2018 2018 2018

Marsh Tit Poecile palustris WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Willow Tit Poecile montana Wo, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Great Tit Parus major 2018 2018 2018 2018

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A 2018 2004 2018 2016

Woodlark Lullula arborea A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Skylark Alauda arvensis 2018 2018 2018 2018

247 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris A 1994 2018 2002 2006

Short-toed Lark Calendrella brachydactyla A 0 0 2012 0

Sand Martin Riparia riparia 2018 2018 2018 2018

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 2018 2018 2018 2018

House Martin Delichon urbicum 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica A 2004 2017 2018 2013

Cetti’s Warbler Cettia cetti WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Hume’s Warbler Phylloscopus humei BBRC 2014 0 1994 0

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus A 2018 2017 2017 2018

Pallas’s Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus A 2001 1987 1970 0

Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus BBRC 2018 2016 0 2014

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 2018 2018 2018 2018

Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis A 2018 2018 2016 2017 Phylloscopus collybita Scandinavian Chiffchaff A 2014 2017 2005 2012 abietinus Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis A 0 0 1993 0

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus BBRC 2005 2013 2017 2015

Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola A 2009 1983 0 0

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris A 2001 2005 1996 1982

Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta A 2000 0 1996 2015

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina A 1997 1942 1993 0

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia 2018 2018 2018 2018

River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis BBRC 0 0 1996 0

Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides A 2004 1999 1977 0

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 2018 2018 2018 2018

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 2018 2018 2018 2018

Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria A 1979 2011 0 0

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata A 2017 2010 2017 2009

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Goldcrest Regulus regulus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 2018 2018 2018 2018

Rose-coloured Starling Pastor roseus A 2018 2005 2009 2004

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris 2018 2018 2018 2018

248 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

White’s Thrush Zoothera dauma BBRC 1895 0 0 0

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Blackbird Turdus merula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Black-throated Thrush Turdus atrogularis BBRC 0 1996 1978 0

Dusky Thrush Turdus naumanni BBRC 0 1979 0 0

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2018 2018 2018 2018

Redwing Turdus iliacus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2018 2018 2018 2018

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 2018 2018 2018 2018

Robin Erithacus rubecula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A 2011 2011 2012 1985

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Wa, St, WM 2017 2018 2009 2014

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva A 2008 0 0 0

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Eastern Black Redstart Phoenicurus o.phoenicuroides A 0 2016 0 0

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2018 2018 2018 2018

European Stonechat Saxicola rubicola 2018 2018 2018 2018

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 2018 2018 2018 2018

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorhoa A (autumn) 2018 2018 2017 2018

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti BBRC 0 0 1996 0

Dipper Cinclus cinclus Wa, WM 1991 2018 2018 2017

Black-bellied Dipper Cinclus cinclus cinclus A 1996 0 0 0

House Sparrow Passer domesticus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Wo 2018 2018 2018 2017

Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris BBRC nk 0 0 0

Dunnock Prunella modularis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 2018 2018 2018 2018

Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava A 2017 2014 2013 2015

Spanish Wagtail Motacilla flava iberiae A 0 1982 1993 0

Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava thunbergi A 0 0 0 1996

Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola BBRC 1997 0 0 0

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 2018 2018 2018 2018

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba 2018 2018 2018 2018

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba A (autumn) 2018 2018 2018 2018

Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi A 2017 2007 2002 1994

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 2018 2018 2018 2018

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus A 1994 0 0 0

249 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta A 2018 2018 2018 2017

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis A 2015 2013 2017 2006

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2018 2018 2018 2018

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 2018 2018 2018 2018 Coccothraustes Hawfinch St, Wa, WM 2018 2018 2018 2018 coccothraustes Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus A 2003 0 2012 0

Greenfinch Chloris chloris 2018 2018 2018 2018

Twite Linaria flavirostris A 2012 2009 2011 2003

Linnet Linaria cannabina 2018 2018 2018 2018

Common Redpoll Acanthis flammea A 2018 2018 2018 2018

Lesser Redpoll Acanthis cabaret 2018 2018 2018 2018

Arctic Redpoll Acanthis hornemanni A 0 2002 1996 0

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra WM 2018 2018 2018 2018

Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera BBRC 0 2013 1980 0

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 2018 2018 2018 2018

European Serin Serinus serinus A 2002 1981 2001 0

Siskin Spinus spinus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus A 2017 2017 2018 2005

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis A 2018 2018 2013 2018

Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra 2018 2018 2018 2015

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2018 2018 2018 2018

Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos BBRC 0 2005 0 0

Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus A 1959 1983 1951 1950

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla A 2009 2005 2005 2003

Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica A 0 1987 0 0

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala BBRC 2004 0 0 0

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus 2018 2018 2018 2018

Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula BBRC 0 0 0 1968

Appendix 1

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis A 2018 2015 2018 2018

Cackling Goose Branta hutchinsii A 2010 2017 2015 2005

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens A 2016 2014 2018 2003

Ross’s Goose Anser rossii A 2013 2014 2013 1999

Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus A 1991 0 2007 2005

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Wa, Wo, WM 2018 2014 2018 2018

Baikal Teal Anas formosa A 2005 0 0 0

Falcated Duck Mareca falcata A 2005 1985 2008 0

Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris A 2018 2018 1993 2001

250 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid

Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus A 2012 0 2013 0

White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala A 0 0 2003 0

Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber A 1962 1968 1988 1968

Great White Pelican Pelicanus onocrotalus A 1975 2001 1981 0

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus A 2018 2018 2013 1985

Lady Amherst’s Pheasant Chrysolophus amherstiae A 2008 2002 2013 0

Saker Falco cherrug A 2018 1993 2002 0

Red-headed Bunting Emberiza bruniceps A 1976 0 1977 0

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea A 2006 0 0 2013

Totals

Grand Total Region 345 Grand Total County 312 308 317 278

Total in Region 2018 233 County Total 2018 204 200 214 178

The county totals exclude all subspecies and races and those species in Appendices 1 and 2 of the Regional List.

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

251 A winter roost of Red Kite Milvus milvus in south Warwickshire Tim Marlow

Formerly common and widespread in the UK, the Red Kite Milivus milvus was extirpated from England and Scotland by the end of the nineteenth century as a consequence of improved hygiene in urban areas and persecution in the wider countryside. A very small breeding population remained in Wales. A successful reintroduction programme began in the Chilterns in 1989 with subsequent releases in the East Midlands, Yorkshire and Scotland. The species now breeds in the West Midlands region where it is encountered with increasing regularity, but aggregations have historically involved no more than four to six individuals (WMBC, 1935-2015).

I have been observing Red Kites regularly around Long Compton in south Warwickshire for several years. In January 2018, Gus Ariss drew my attention to a report by Mark Clarke of 37, approximately 2km north of the village. He subsequently discovered Conrad and Mervyn Print had also seen a large group in the area, and I became aware of the presence of large winter roosts in the nearby north Gloucestershire Cotswolds. We began to wonder whether there could be a winter roost in south Warwickshire and late on the afternoon of January 26th, with a rough idea of where the birds had been seen, we set out to investigate.

After driving around the local country lanes for around half an hour we came across four kites sitting in roadside trees. Stopping to scan we found another six in the immediate area and were increasingly convinced a roost must be forming very close by.

After a while we began to see birds which had obviously travelled some distance, arriving at height on a purposeful track. Their destination however remained unclear until two birds flew directly into a small copse to our west. A sweep with Red Kites gathering prior to roost. Tim Marlow a telescope revealed eleven were already gathered in the canopy. We began a count with those and added every bird we saw fly in thereafter.

It is thought that the timing of a bird’s arrival at the roost is driven by how well it has fed during the day, those that have struggled for food arriving later as they have remained foraging for longer (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2000). Arrivals at the Warwickshire roost spanned a period of around two and half hours. The majority of birds flew straight into the trees and there was very little activity over the copse, possibly related to the fine weather as increased levels of ‘play’ tend to occur at roosts on windy days (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2000). Though this behaviour reduced confusion as to whether we had already counted birds it also resulted in our missing some that arrived from our one ‘blind side’. By dusk our tally was exactly 60 when what Gus evocatively described as a ‘dread’ occurred. A crow flew into the south side of the copse and a few kites moved, apparently in response. After a few minutes, what we took to be the entire roost got up and began milling around low over the treetops. A precise count was impossible, but we were fairly confident that 70–80 individuals were involved. It is interesting to note in this context

252 that English Nature surveyors developed a method in which birds were deliberately flushed at dusk and counted by observers outside the wood (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2002). It should also be noted that the method was only employed once, to minimise disturbance, by professional staff working under supervision. The resultant count ‘easily exceeded the maximum number of birds previously seen together at the roost’ (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2002). Steve Haynes subsequently visited the Warwickshire roost and agreed with our estimate, though he suspected the true number may have been even higher.

Red Kites over the roost site at dusk. Tim Marlow

Red Kites are social raptors as are another group of scavengers, the vultures. It has been hypothesised that kites in a roost can see which individuals have fed well, as indicated by a bulging crop, allowing less fortunate birds to follow the corpulent ones back to the location of a carcass the next morning. Radio tracking work in Spain did not support this theory but another proposed explanation for winter roosts, that birds follow each other from them to forage together (Hiraldo, Heredia and Alonso, 1993). The greater the number of birds searching, the greater the chance of success in finding food. Given the likelihood that a food source will provide amply for several birds there is no disadvantage in such cooperative behaviour.

Though paired adult Red Kites typically remain within four kilometres of the nest location throughout the year, first and second calendar-year birds roam before The copse in which the Red Kite roost was located. returning to the natal area to begin Gus Ariss

253 breeding. Winter roosts thus comprise a disproportionate number of immature individuals and observations in Warwickshire were consistent with this composition of age-classes.

Though physical characteristics of the winter roost site may be important, proximity to good- quality foraging habitat seems likely to be the chief determinant of their location and there does appear to be some relocation of sites and movement of roosting birds, probably driven by food availability (Hiraldo et al 1993). Studies in the Midlands found that 62% of field observations of Red Kites were associated with arable farmland but a ‘key finding was that arable and grassland habitats were used in roughly the same proportions as they are present in the area’ (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2000). The same authors concluded that ‘intensively managed arable fields provide perfectly suitable foraging habitat for Red Kites, at least in autumn and winter’. Immature Red Kites may travel further than adults but still within 12 miles of the winter roost site. Within such a radius of the Warwickshire roost arable farmland predominates, with some pasture and small woodlands. It is perhaps significant that the Warwickshire site is also a large shoot. Analysis of diet outside the breeding season identified gamebirds, pigeons and doves as most the important avian component, but lagomorphs as ‘by far the most important food’ followed by rats and small mammals (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2002).

Keith Jennings who watches one of the north Gloucestershire roosts told us that numbers there peak in December and January, so we determined to try and establish whether the Warwickshire roost was present the following winter and if so, to monitor the numbers and pattern of occupation. The first visit was made on November 8th when 19 were recorded roosting in the original copse by Gus Ariss. Just six were seen by the same observer on November 25th, though I counted 14–18 the next day. None of these birds were using the original copse Red Kite, Long Compton, Warwickshire. Tim Marlow though and were dispersed between a wood previously used as a second, smaller roost site and a wooded ridge nearly 2km to the south-west, with some going down in a valley between these two points. The same distribution was evident on December 28th when I recorded 40, the largest count of the season. This is consistent with observations made elsewhere that ‘birds returned to roost in trees within the same area of approximately 2km². The precise groups of trees used for roosting varied but the roost always formed within the same area’ (Carter, I and Grice, P. 2002). Though the number is considerably lower than the highest estimate of the previous winter, there was much greater movement within the broad roost area which made it very difficult to obtain an accurate count.

Acknowledgements I would like to thank Gus Ariss for alerting me to the initial report and his help with all aspects of the subsequent fieldwork and discussion. I would also like to thank Mark Clarke who made the initial report, Keith Jennings for his input regarding the Gloucestershire roosts and Steve Haynes for his assistance with the counts. Finally, I would like to thank Melvyn Print and posthumously his brother Conrad who died in 2019. Conrad will be greatly missed by anyone with an interest in the ornithology of the Warwickshire ‘Cotswold fringe’.

254 References Carter, I and Grice, P. 2000. Studies of re-established Red Kites in England. British Birds 93: 304-322. Carter, I and Grice, P. 2002. The Red Kite Reintroduction Programme in England. English Nature Research Report No. 451. English Nature. Hiraldo, F., Heredia, B and Alonso, J.C. 1993. Communal roosting of Wintering Red Kites Milvus milvus (Aves, Accipitridae): Social Feeding Strategies for the Exploitation of Food Resources. Ethology 93: 117-124. The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands, 1934-2015, West Midland Bird Club

255 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere: seasonal and age distributions and correlations with a nearby breeding colony Alan Dean

Plate 1. Adult and 4th calendar-year Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Olton Mere, April 2019, Alan Dean

Since 2005 I have made regular observations of Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere in the West Midlands county (aka Olton Reservoir on OS maps). The proportion of juveniles in the post-fledging period proved to be exceptionally high compared with many other locations, so information collected since 2008 has included the seasonal age-structure of gatherings, as well as total numbers. The following text examines data from the decade 2010–2019, for which systematic year-round data is available. Also explored are correlations with the rooftop-nesting colony at the Jaguar Land-Rover plant (JLR) at Solihull, which lies just over 1.5 km to the east.

Seasonal distribution of Lesser Black-backed Gulls in the West Midlands Region In the West Midlands Region as a whole, the highest numbers of Lesser Black-backed Gulls occur in late autumn and winter. They are observed most-frequently during the late afternoon at roost sites and to a lesser extent during the day, when gulls are feeding at landfill sites. Harrison & Harrison (2005) estimated that peak numbers reached between 25,000 and 35,000 during the 1970s, declined to around 10,000 by the early 1980s but then recovered to around 20,000 by the new millennium. Most individuals wintering in the West Midlands Region are believed to involve British-breeding gulls originating from northern England and Scotland (Harrison et al. 1982) but foreign recoveries of birds ringed in the West Midlands during winter include individuals returning to breeding colonies in the Netherlands and Norway (Harrison and Harrison, 2005). The decline in the British population of large gulls during the late 1970s and 1980s has been associated with the outbreak of botulism, which then stabilised at a low level during the 1990s, enabling a recovery in numbers (Coulson 2019; Mudge & Ferns 1980; Rock 2005). With the progressive closure of landfill sites, wintering numbers at many roosts are now in decline once more and seem likely to decline further in coming years.

Seasonally, numbers of Lesser Black-backs regionwide begin to increase from September onwards and reach a peak in November or December, with passage migrants augmenting

256 individuals destined to become winter residents. Numbers begin to decline during late- January but the departure of wintering birds is then offset by an influx of northwards-moving migrants during February and March. It is not until April that numbers at the majority of roosts become insignificant. Even during mid-summer, substantial numbers of predominantly immature birds have been found feeding at some landfill sites (exceptionally, 2,500 were at Throckmorton during June and July 2010 – a site which reached the end of its operational life during 2016).

Systematic year-round counts at many roosts in the Region have become relatively infrequent in recent years, which is unfortunate given current changes in numbers associated with landfill closures. However, the historical monthly profile of numbers across the Region as a whole, as exemplified by personal counts at Blithfield Reservoir, Staffs (1980–1985), and , West Midlands (1998–2003), is illustrated in Figure 1. Numbers are plotted from July through to June (i.e. winter months centrally), to show the natural progression of numbers.

Figure 1. Historical seasonal distribution of Lesser Black-backed Gulls in the West Midlands Region, plotted from July through to June, as exemplified by mean monthly maxima at two reservoir roosts.

Seasonal distribution of Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere The seasonal profile of numbers at Olton is highly distinctive and is quite different from that portrayed in Figure 1. Numbers peak initially during the spring (righthand end in Figure 2, which is again plotted with winter months centrally for direct comparison with Figure 1). A second and larger peak occurs in later summer, with numbers then declining dramatically and relatively few present during the mid-winter months. Thus, the seasonal profile of numbers is almost the ’inverse’ of that applying to the Region as a whole.

On a daily basis, numbers of Lesser Black-backs tend to peak during the early afternoon, when they fly in to loaf, bathe and drink. Feeding is no more than opportunistic; for example,if another gull (most often a Black-headed Gull) or a Common Tern is seen to possess a desirable item of food, such as a small fish, then kleptoparasitism may be attempted.

257 Figure 2. Mean monthly maxima of Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere, plotted from July through to June, during the ten-year period 2010–2019 Seasonal and annual distributions of adults and juveniles The spring peak at Olton, in April (seven of the ten years) or early May, comprises c.85% adults or near-adults (Plate 1) and reflects gulls of breeding age which have moved back into the immediate area having wintered elsewhere. There are small numbers of 3cy individuals but few 2cy (typically <4%).

Figure 3. Annual maxima of adult/near-adult (April/May) and juvenile (July/August) Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere, 2010–2019

Peak numbers in spring vary quite widely but, during the ten-year period, there has been a distinct overall increase, reaching over 300 by 2019 (dark blue columns in Figure 3). An exponential trendline equates with a long-term increase of c.12% per annum, though in three years numbers were significantly above the long-term trendline (see Discussion). This marked increase contrasts with the decline in numbers at many winter roosts.

258 The later summer peak (in July and August) consists of approximately 75% juveniles (Plate 2), which begin to appear at the site during the first half of July (earliest July 4th 2018), reach a peak in late July or early August (Table 1) and then disperse during late August.

Plate 2. Juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Olton Mere, July 2019, Alan Dean

The annual maximum for juveniles has also shown a long-term increase coupled with significant annual variations. The maximum in 2010 was just 40 but this followed three-figure totals in the preceding two years. Peak numbers reached 223 in July 2015 and 213 in August 2018 (paler blue columns in Figure 3). There were declines in five of the ten years, compared with four of ten years for adults and near-adults in spring. Despite these setbacks, an imposed trendline again equates with a long-term increase of c. 12% per annum, thus broadly comparable with the trendline for adults/near-adults (Figure 3).

Table 1 presents a variety of key statistics relating to juveniles at Olton Mere. Statistics for juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Olton Mere, 2010 – 2019

Year Date of first Date of max Max number %age juvs in flock 2010 July 15 July 26 40 56 2011 July 7 July 25 140 76 2012 July 16 July 23 103 76 2013 July 15 Aug 7 90 81 2014 July 18 Aug 1 150 73 5yr Mean: July 14 July 29 105 72 2015 July 13 July 29 223 83 2016 July 13 Aug 15 134 54 2017 July 7 July 28 113 73 2018 July 4 Aug 6 213 74 2019 July 9 Aug 8 165 95 5yr Mean: July 9 Aug 5 170 76 10yr Range: July 4 – July 18 July 23 – Aug 15 40 - 223 54 - 95

Table 1. Juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Olton Mere during the ten years 2010 – 2019: key dates and numbers

259 The increasing numbers and distinct seasonal profiles can be allied to the rooftop colony at nearby JLR. The numbers of Lesser Black-backs occurring at Olton during the breeding season far exceed those in winter or passage periods while the age-compositions of the spring and late- summer peaks reflect breeding pairs and their progeny, respectively. A complex of large, flat or shallowly sloping roofs at JLR with a relatively undisturbed body of water less than 2km away must provide an attractive combination for breeding, bathing and loafing (see paragraphs on ‘Social pattern and behaviour’ in BWP3, Cramp et al. 1983). At Earlswood Lakes, just 8 km to the south of Olton Mere, numbers of Lesser Black-backs rarely exceed 10 at any season (excluding gulls casually flying over) and there is no late-summer influx of juveniles (Matt Griffiths and John Oates in litt.). During the breeding season, Lesser Black-backed Gulls consistently arrive at and depart from Olton on a bearing connecting Olton and JLR. At JLR directions of movement are somewhat less consistent: a major component includes the direction of Olton Mere but birds also depart regularly to the NE, presumably to feeding grounds. Historically, their destination was assumed to be Packington Landfill, in N Warks; traditional landfill operations ceased there in 2015 but gulls still head in that direction. As feeding excursions of gulls may involve 40km or more from the breeding site, they may be moving to active landfills further afield. However, at other colonies studied in the north of the UK, many breeding gulls feed on agricultural land, often soon after dawn when it is still damp from dew and invertebrates are relatively accessible. The gulls may be spread over a large area at this time, with no evident concentrations, and hence can be overlooked (Coulson 2019 & in litt.). The feeding regimes of rooftop-nesting gulls in the West Midlands region and elsewhere have been inadequately studied and warrant further investigation.

Rooftop nesting Rooftop nesting by large gulls is now widespread in the UK, with Herring Gulls adopting the habit from the late 1920s (and an isolated pair perhaps as early as 1909). Lesser Black-backs first joined colonies of Herring Gulls in the mid-1940s (Rock 2005; Coulson 2019). At this time rooftop nesting as a whole began to increase and became extensive during the next 40 years. The species first bred in the West Midlands Region at Worcester in 1986 and central Birmingham in 1987 and has been attributed to expansion from colonies in the Bristol Channel area (Harrison & Harrison 2005). Surveys conducted by Jim Winsper of Herring Gulls and Lesser Black-backed Gulls breeding on rooftops within the City of Birmingham boundary between 2008 and 2011 confirmed breeding for 555 pairs of Lesser Black-backs and 31 pairs of Herring Gulls (Winsper 2014). Thus, the former is by far the commoner rooftop breeder in the region and this applies also to much of western Britain; however, Herring Gulls are the more-numerous rooftop breeder in eastern England and Scotland and outnumber Lesser Black-backed Gulls across the UK as a whole (Coulson 2019).

Away from Birmingham, WMBC Annual Reports have documented Lesser Black-backed Gulls breeding on rooftops in a number of other urban sites, including Kidderminster, Solihull, Stourport, West Bromwich, Worcester and Wolverhampton (and a small number of pairs at non-rooftop, non-urban sites, including Bredon’s Hardwick and Middleton Lakes). Nationally, there have been a number of surveys of urban breeding gulls e.g. Cramp (1971), Monaghan & Coulson (1977), Raven & Coulson (1997), Mitchell et al. (2004). Most recently, a survey scheduled for 2019–2020 was preceded by a pilot study conducted in Birmingham during 2018, jointly organised by the BTO and DEFRA. These organisations produced a joint report entitled: ‘Urban Gull Survey: Highlights from the 2018 survey in Birmingham’. A summary by Jim Winsper, based upon information provided by the BTO’s Ian Woodward, can be found in the Autumn 2019 WMBC newsletter WMBC News No. 494: 25–29. The pilot survey employed three techniques: aerial, vantage point and ground-based counts. One intention was to assess whether ‘modelling’ from the first two methods could be used to make estimates of totals from

260 the wholly ground-based counts which were to be used in the main survey during 2019–2020, administered by JNCC (Dawn Balmer in litt.) In the event, links between the three methods proved to be unexpectedly complicated and, perhaps counter-intuitively, aerial photographs did not always provide the highest figures. However, the aerial survey found 1921 ‘Apparently Occupied Nests’ (AONs) for Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 300 AONs for Herring Gulls. Compared with Jim Winsper’s counts, this represents an increase for Lesser Black-backs of c.18% per annum (c.f. c.12% inferred for Solihull JLR) and c.36% per annum for Herring Gull. (The latter is very high but rates tend to be higher when numbers are increasing from an initially low base (Coulson 2019), while the article in WMBC News No. 494 notes that the aerial surveys may well have achieved more-complete coverage than the vantage point surveys of the earlier studies). Censusing nesting gulls can be fraught with problems and estimates have wide margins of error; at individual sites they are believed frequently to under-estimate true totals, perhaps by as much as 25% (see Coulson 2019). However, given increasing concerns about the expanding numbers and locations of urban nesting gulls, such counts provide valuable preliminary estimates and are vital for assessing trends.

The colony at JLR The colony on the rooftops at the JLR plant at Solihull, where breeding was first inferred in 1997 (WMBC Annual Report No. 64), was not included in the 2018 survey but provides an example of the difficulties. This large complex has high rooftops and no general access. From the periphery or higher ground in the adjacent Elmdon Park, small numbers of gulls can be seen standing on parts of the roof space, but the nesting areas remain generally out of sight. Under normal circumstances, up to 70 off-duty gulls (but frequently far fewer) may be visible, on lower buildings or circling over the rooftops, but only a handful of gulls can be seen standing at the very edges of the higher, flat-roofed buildings. On April 12th, 2019, 85 Lesser Black-backs were flushed from one high, flat roof by an over-flying Buzzard; prior to this disturbance none had been visible from ground level.

As elsewhere in the UK, at JLR there are attempts to discourage the gulls from breeding (though in the long term these displacement measures are generally unsuccessful - see Table 1 for inferred trends in breeding productivity; see also Jackson (2019) for comments on the situation in Worcester and Rock (2005), Coulson (2019) and Trotter (2019) for national perspectives). On several occasions, following the broadcasting of ‘explosions’ or other unidentified means of disturbance, I have seen large numbers of Lesser Black-backs (and small numbers of Herring Gulls) flush from larger, flat-roofed buildings and circle the factory and its adjoining airspace. It is difficult to count accurately large numbers of gulls wheeling above the rooftops but numbers have certainly increased during the study period, reaching 300–350 (90% Lesser Black-backs) on May 8th, May 13th and June 12th, 2019: numbers that far outweigh those detected from ground level or from partial vantage points. (Particularly during the later summer, numbers of Black-headed Gulls are also present. It is assumed pro tem that these are merely loafing individuals as, although small numbers breed at a handful of rooftop sites in Scotland, there is no current evidence of rooftop breeding by Black-headed Gulls in England (Coulson 2019). However, firm information on the status of this species at the JLR colony is lacking.)

At some colonies of large gulls, the numbers of individuals displaced by intentional disturbances have been used to provide a further method of estimating colony size (Walsh et al. 1995). However, such disturbed individuals do not provide a direct measure of the number of nesting pairs. During May, for example, they will include individuals actively involved at the nest (egg-laying or incubating) plus an unknown number of ‘off-duty’ individuals, which can vary with time of day. At JLR, if the 300 or more individuals disturbed from rooftops in May and June 2019 included both members of all pairs, that would equate with at least 150 pairs; if

261 all were incubating individuals with all ‘off-duty’ individuals away feeding or at loafing sites, then this would equate with c.300 pairs. The true figure is likely to lie somewhere in-between. Additional considerations are that: ‘individual pairs of gulls in a colony can begin egg-laying over a 35-day period or more and, therefore, there is no single date when all active nests are occupied’ (Coulson 2019); also, there may be a number of non-breeding adults and immatures associating with the colony. Derived from ratios calculated from tern colonies, in some studies the number of individuals disturbed had been divided by a factor of 1.5 to provide an estimate of the number of breeding pairs. If a factor of 1.5 were applied to the maximum numbers of c.300 Lesser Black-backs disturbed from the rooftops at JLR then this would imply about 200 breeding pairs. However, such correction factors must be acknowledged to be pragmatic rather than precise. On June 12th, 2019, an hour before 300 Lesser Black-backs were estimated over the JLR factory, only 15 had been present at Olton Mere. Significant numbers may have been away on feeding excursions but, otherwise, this suggests a relatively high percentage of the total colony numbers may have been present at JLR when disturbed. Even the minimum of 150 pairs implies a significant colony by regional standards.

Correlations with Olton Mere To investigate whether estimates of colony size in the range of 150–250 pairs are supported by other metrics, I have attempted to: (a) correlate the numbers of birds deliberately disturbed from the rooftops at JLR with maximum daytime counts of breeding-age gulls at Olton Mere; (b) determine the number of breeding pairs which is inferred by the number of juveniles gathering at Olton in the immediate post-fledging period.

(a) Gulls of breeding-age

Plate 3. Apparent pair of Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Olton Mere, April 2019, Alan Dean

During the ten-year period of analysis, the mean April maximum for Lesser Black-backs of all ages at Olton was 128 during 2010 to 2014, increasing to 192 during 2015 to 2019, with c.85% being of breeding age. Reflecting the trend of increasing numbers, there were 270 (240 breeding age) in April 2017 and 310 (275) in April 2019 (Figure 3).

The proportions of total colony numbers assembled at JLR or at Olton at any one time will never reach 100% at either site, as neither the breeding phenology nor individual activities of colony members will be fully synchronised. However, the peak figures for breeding-age gulls loafing

262 at Olton mirror the maximum counts for gulls disturbed from the rooftops at JLR and support a similar minimum number of 150 breeding pairs.

(b) Juveniles

Plate 4. Juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gull, Olton Mere, August 2013, Alan Dean

The average number of young raised per pair of Herring Gulls nesting at urban sites is 1.45 and the figure for Lesser Black-backs is likely to be similar. Despite nationwide attempts to dislodge rooftop colonies, breeding success at urban sites is significantly higher than at ‘traditional’ rural locations, where it rarely exceeds 1.0 and may be substantially lower (Coulson 2019).

During 2010–2019, the mean annual maximum of juveniles gathering at Olton was 135, equating with the progeny of c.100 pairs, but this masks the increasing trend. The ten-year maximum of 223 in July 2015 and the peak of 213 in August 2018 (Table 1) infer offspring from a recent population of about 150 pairs. As fledging dates may extend over a period of over five weeks (Coulson 2019), ‘spot counts’ will underestimate total progeny for the season. Also, as with adults, it is doubtful that all ‘currently’ fledged juveniles will assemble at Olton on any given date. Hence, maximum ‘spot counts’ will reflect the minimum number of juveniles fledged during the season. Once again, the number of juveniles in the immediate post-fledging period points to progeny from a minimum of 150 breeding pairs.

One proviso is that some juveniles may visit Olton from elsewhere during the post-fledging period. However, the rapidly increasing concentration of juveniles in the immediate post- fledging period, the numerical dominance of juveniles in these loafing flocks and their relatively rapid dispersal after peak numbers have been reached are strong indicators of a local population and that interlopers will be a small percentage. As noted, at Earlswood Lakes, 8 km to the south of Olton Mere, there is no late-summer influx of juveniles.

Discussion Despite similar long-term rates of increase (see trendlines in Figure 3), the numbers of juveniles at Olton in a given year did not always reflect the numbers of individuals of breeding age recorded in the spring. In Figure 3, the three years in which the peak number of adults or near-adults lies significantly above the trendline (2013, 2017 and 2019) are also years in

263 which the peak number of juveniles falls significantly below the corresponding trendline. There may be an optimal colony size, above which population-dependent negative factors come into play. However, given the extent of apparently suitable yet unoccupied roof space, the reason for this anomaly seems unlikely to be natural variations in breeding success. It is plausible, perhaps, that attempts to disturb the colony have increased when colony size is largest, leading to reduced breeding success in those years and a proportion of adults moving elsewhere in the following breeding season. However, such setbacks were not sustained, with numbers of breeding-age individuals and juveniles soon recovering in subsequent years. Coulson (2019) described how colony size at Dumfries, in SW Scotland, continued to increase despite the numbers of juveniles being radically reduced by persistent egg and nest removal and concluded that immigration of nesting individuals from elsewhere was a significant factor in expanding colony size. Experience nationally suggests that, once a colony is established, it is exceedingly difficult to displace, with recruitment soon outweighing any short-term reductions in numbers.

The future Wintering Lesser Black-backed Gulls have declined at many sites in the region and may continue to do so, as they will be less likely to winter in areas where landfill sites have closed. In contrast, gulls breeding at urban sites are increasing. At this season they are less dependent on landfill for food than is popularly believed (Rock 2005, Coulson 2019). The overriding factor becomes the availability of suitable nesting habitat provided by industrial rooftops where, even in the face of disturbance, breeding success remains relatively high (see above). As there remains ample ‘unoccupied habitat’, numbers nesting on rooftops nationally, including in the West Midlands Region, are on an upward trend and may increase for some time yet. In some cities, breeding has extended to residential properties, leading to additional concerns (Coulson 2019, Rock 2015, Trotter 2019). Despite the difficulties inherent in attempts to count rooftop nesting gulls, the importance of on-going local and national surveys is evident.

Acknowledgements Dawn Balmer, John Coulson, Peter Rock, Jim Winsper and Ian Woodward kindly responded to my enquiries about urban gulls, while Dr Coulson’s book ‘Gulls’ (New Naturalist Series No. 139) was an invaluable source of information.

References Barlow, N.P., Norman, S.D., Bowley, J.J., Harrison, G.R. & Emley, D.W. (eds, chronologically). 1986 - 2016. West Midland Bird Club Annual Reports 53 - 83. West Midland Bird Club. BTO and DEFRA. Urban Gull Survey: Highlights from the 2018 Survey in Birmingham. https:// www.bto.org/sites/default/files/bto-urban-gull-survey-2018-summary-for-volunteers.pdf (Summary available in WMBC News No. 494: 25 - 29.) Coulson, J.C. 2019. Gulls. New Naturalist Series, No. 139. Collins, London. Cramp, S. 1971. Gulls nesting on buildings in Britain and Ireland. British Birds 64: 476 - 487. Cramp, S. & Simmons, K. E. L. (eds.) 1983. The Birds of the Western Palearctic, Vol. 3. Oxford. Dean, A. R. 2000 et seq. Gulls in the West Midlands Region. http://deanar.org.uk/wmgulls/gullshome.htm. Harrison, G.R., Dean, A.R., Richards, A.J. & Smallshire, D. 1982. The Birds of the West Midlands. West Midland Bird Club. Harrison, G.R. & Harrison, J.V. 2005. The new Birds of the West Midlands. West Midland Bird Club. Jackson, D. 2019. Conservation Matters. (Proposed Wild West Gull Control ‘would be illegal’, Worcester City Council told). WMBC News 495: 16.

264 Mitchell, P. I., Newton, S. F., Ratcliffe, N. & Dunn, T. E. (eds). 2004. Seabird Populations of Britain and Ireland: Results of the Seabird 2000 Census (1998 -2002). London. Monaghan, P. & Coulson, J.C. 1977. The status of large gulls nesting on buildings. Bird Study 24: 89 - 104. Mudge, G. & Ferns, R. 1980. A census of breeding gulls in the inner Bristol Channel. Cardiff University. Raven, S.J., & Coulson, J. C. 1997.The distribution and abundance of Larus gulls nesting on buildings in Britain & Ireland. Bird Study 44: 13 - 34. Rock, P. 2005. Urban gulls: problems and solutions. British Birds 98: 338 - 355. Trotter, S. 2019. The regulation of urban gulls in the UK: a study of control measures. British Birds 112: 282 - 292. Walsh, P.M., Halley, D. J., Harris, M. P., del Nevo, A., Sim, I. M. W., & Tasker, M. 1995. Seabird monitoring handbook for Britain and Ireland. Peterborough. Winsper, J. 2014. Roof-top nesting gull study: concerning the population of gulls that breed within the Birmingham boundary. West Midland Bird Club Annual Report 78: 237 - 249.

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

Warwickshire Abbey Fields SP2872 Bearley SP1760 Cawston Woods SP4772 Abbots Salford SP0749 Bedworth SP3585 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Admington SP2046 Bedworth Nook SP3486 Charlecote/Charlecote Ailstone SP2151 Bedworth Slough SP3487 Park SP2656 Alcester SP0857 Bedworth Woodlands SP3387 Cherington SP2936 Alvecote Pools SK2504 Bentley Park Wood SP2895 Chesterton SP3558 Ansley Common SP3193 Bermuda Balancing Lake SP3589 Chesterton Pools SP3558 Ansley Hall SP3093 Bidford Grange GC SP1152 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Arlescote SP3948 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Church Lawford SP4476 Arley SP2890 Birchmoor SK2500 Churchover SP5180 Arley Wood SP2790 Bishop’s Itchington SP3857 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Ashorne SP3057 Blackwell Bushes SP2242 Clifton Lakes SP5477 Astley SP3189 Bodymoor Heath SP2096 Clowes Wood SP0973 Astley Castle SP3189 Braggington SP1350 Coldcomfort Wood SP0658 Aston Cantlow SP1359 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Coleman’s Hill SP1844 Austrey SK2906 Brandon Wood SP3976 Coleshill SP2089 Avon Dassett SP4149 Bretford SP4277 Combrook SP3051 Aylesmore Farm SP3039 Broadwell SP4565 Compton Verney SP3152 Broom SP0953 Coombe CP SP4079 Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Bubbenhall Meadow NR SP3771 Coombe Fields SP4181 Ballard’s Green SP2791 Burton Dassett CP/Hills SP3951 Copston Magna SP4588 Bannam’s Wood SP1164 Burton Green SP2675 Corley Ash SP2996 Barcheston SP2639 SP4189 Coton Lakes SP2194 Barford SP2760 Bush Wood SP1768 Coughton Fields SP0959 Barnacle SP3884 Coventry Airport SP3574 Barton SP1051 Calcutt SP4664 Coxmere Wood SP1350 Barton-on-the-Heath SP2532 Caldecote SP3494 Crackley Wood SP2874

266 Cress Hill SP1451 Idlicote SP2844 Oldberrow SP1265 Crimscote SP2347 Ilmington SP2143 Oldbury SP3194 Crimscote Downs SP2246 Ilmington Downs SP1942 Over Whitacre SP2590 Cubbington SP3468 Overslade SP4973 Curdworth SP1792 Kenilworth SP2971 Oversley Green SP0956 Kineton SP3351 Oversley Wood SP1056 Dairy Farm SP2287 Kingsbury Water Park SP2097 Oxhouse Farm SP3050 Dallas Burston Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Polo Grounds SP3962 Kinwarton SP1058 Packington Hall/Park SP2283 Dordon SK2600 Knightcote SP4055 Packwood/ Dosthill Cliff Lakes SP2089 Packwood House SP1772 Draycote (village) SP4469 Ladbroke SP4158 Pillerton Hersey SP3048 Draycote Water SP4669 Ladywalk NR SP2191 Pleasance Farm SP2672 Dunchurch SP4871 Langley SP1962 Polesworth SK2602 Dunnington SP0653 Lark Stoke SP1943 Pooley CP SK2503 Dunsmore Heath SP4372 Lea Marston SP2093 Potsford’s Dam Farm SP4672 Lea Marston Lake SP2194 Preston Bagot SP1765 Earlswood Lakes/ Leamington Hastings SP4467 Preston-on-Stour SP2049 Earlswood SP1174 Leamington Spa SP3165 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Ennister Wood SP0754 Lighthorne SP3355 Priors Marston SP4957 Ensors Pool SP3490 Lighthorne Pools SP3356 Purley Chase/Quarry SP3096 Exhall SP3384 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Radway SP3748 Farnborough SP4349 Little Compton SP2630 Ragley Fields SP0756 Farnborough Park SP4249 Little Kineton SP3350 Ragley Park SP0755 Fenny Compton SP4152 Little Packington SP2184 Ratley SP3847 Fenny Compton Hills SP4051 Little Shrewley SP2267 Redhill SP1356 Fenny Compton Long Compton SP2832 Rookery SP1866 Tunnels SP4352 Long Itchington SP4165 Rugby SP5175 Fillongley SP2887 Long Lawford SP4776 Ryton Pools CP SP3772 Fisher’s Mill SP2099 Long Marston SP1548 Ryton Wood SP3872 Flecknoe SP5163 Long Spinney SP4984 Forest of Arden GC SP2285 Lower Quinton SP1847 Salford Priors SP0751 Freckleton Spinney SP4353 Lower Shuckburgh SP4862 Salford Priors GP SP0752 Friz Hill SP2953 Lower Tysoe SP3445 Sawbridge SP5065 Lowsonford SP1867 Saxon Mill, Warwick SP2996 Galley Common SP3192 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Gaydon SP3654 Mancetter SP3296 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Grandborough Fields SP4865 Mancetter Hills SP3296 Shotteswell SP4245 Great Alne SP1159 Marston Fields GP SP2094 Shrewley/Shrewley Green End SP2586 Maxstoke SP2386 Angling Pools SP2167 Guy’s Cliffe SP2966 Maxstoke Park GC SP2288 Shuckburgh Hills/Park SP4961 Middle Spernall SP0961 Shustoke Reservoir SP2291 Halesmore Plantation SP4051 Middleton Hall SP1998 Snitterfield SP2159 Halford SP2645 Middleton Lakes SP1998 Southam SP4161 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Middleton Pool SP1998 Southam Fields SP4361 Hampton Wood SP2559 Milcote SP1752 St Nicholas Park SP2864 Hams Hall SP2091 Milverton SP3066 Stockton SP4365 Harborough Magna SP4879 Mockley Wood SP1268 Stockton Cutting SP4364 Harbury SP3759 MOD Kineton SP3651 Stoneton SP4654 Harrow Hill Farm SP2833 Monks Kirby SP4683 Stratford Greenway SP1953 Hartshill Hayes CP SP3294 Moreton Morrell SP3155 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Hartshill STW SP3395 Morton Bagot SP1064 Stretton Baskerville SP4291 Haselor/Haselor Scrape SP1257 Stretton-on-Fosse SP2238 Hatton Green SP2367 Napton Fields SP4461 Stubbs Pool SP3393 Heathcote SP3063 Napton Marina SP4662 Studley SP0763 Henley-in-Arden SP1465 Napton Reservoir SP4662 Sun Rising Natural Highfield Farm SP2742 Napton-on-the-Hill SP4561 Burial Ground SP3545 Hill Park Wood SP3981 Netherwood Heath SP1973 Sutton-under-Brailes SP3037 Hillborough SP1251 New Fallings Coppice SP1074 Sweet Knowle SP2048 Hillmorton SP5373 Newbold Comyn SP3465 Hobley’s Furze SP4685 Newbold Quarry Park SP4977 Tanworth-in-Arden SP1170 Hodnell SP4256 Newbold-on-Stour SP2446 Temple Grafton SP1255 Hoggrill’s End SP2291 Northend SP3952 Temple Pool SP3744 Honington SP2642 Norton Lindsey SP2263 The Pleasance SP2672 Hurley SP2495 Nuneaton SP3691 Thurnmill Spinney SP4876

267 Tredington SP2543 Warwick Services SP3357 Willoughby SP5167 Tysoe SP3444 Wasperton SP2658 Wimpstone SP2148 Watchbury SP2860 Winderton SP3240 Ullenhall SP1267 Watergall SP4255 Windmill Naps SP0972 Upper Brailes SP3039 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Windmill Spinney SP4454 Upper Quinton SP1746 Wellesbourne SP2755 Wishaw SP1794 Upton House SP3645 Weston Landfill SP3671 Wolston SP4175 Weston-on-Avon SP1650 Wolston GP SP3974 Walton Hall SP2852 Whichford Wood SP3034 Wolverton SP2062 Wappenbury Wood SP3770 Whitacre Heath NR SP2092 Wootton Wawen SP1563 Warmington SP4147 Whitacre WTW SP2191 Wormleighton SP4454 Warton SK2803 Whitnash SP3263 Wormeighton Res SP4451 Warwick SP2864 Whittleford Park/Lagoon SP3392 Warwick Castle SP2864 Wibtoft SP4787 Yarningale Common SP1865 Warwick Racecourse SP2764 Willey SP4984

Worcestershire Ab Lench SP0051 Bredon Hill SO9540 Croome River SO8844 Abberley SO7467 Bredon’s Hardwick SO9035 Cropthorne SO9944 Abberton SO9953 Bricklehampton SO9842 Crowle SO9256 Abbots Salford SP0750 British Camp SO7640 Crutch Lane SO9066 Alvechurch SP0272 Broad Green SO9970 Arley SO7680 Broadway SP0937 Defford Drome SO9143 Arrow Lake SP0667 Broadway Gravel Pit SP0837 Devil’s Spittleful SO8074 Arrow Valley SP0667 Bromsgrove SO9570 Diglis Lock SO8453 Asham Meadow SO9242 Broome SO9078 Dobbins Oak SO9282 Ashmoor Common SO8446 Broughton Hackett SO9254 Dodford SO9373 Ashwood Nurseries SP0473 Buckland Wood SP0935 Dordale SO9274 Aston Somerville SP0438 Bungay Lake SO9270 Dowles Brook SO7776 Avon Meadows SO9136 Bunkers Hill SO8780 Droitwich SO8963 Burcot SO9871 Droitwich Wood SO8862 Barnett Brook SO8876 Burlish Top SO8073 Bayton SO6973 Eckington Meadows SO9141 Beacon Hill SO9876 Calcot Hill SO9478 Elmbridge SO9067 Beaconwood SO9775 Caldwell Hall SO9170 Endon Hall SO9644 Beckford SO9735 Callow End SO8349 Engine Coppice SO7264 Beehive Coppice SO7064 Camp Lane Pits SO8359 Evesham SP0343 Belbroughton SO9277 Carpenters Farm SO7733 Evesham SP0543 Bell Heath SO9577 Castlemorton Common SO7839 Evesham Greenhill SP0444 Berrow SO7934 Caunsall SO8581 Evesham Hampton SP0243 Berwick Brook SO9442 Chadbury SP0146 Evesham Overbrook SP0443 Besford SO9144 SO8973 Evesham Waterside SP0343 Bevere Lock SO8359 Chaddesley Wood SO9173 Eymore Wood SO7779 Bewdley SO7875 Chadwich Grange SO9776 Bibbeys Hollow SO9682 Chase End Wood SO7635 Feckenham Wylde Bickmarsh SP1048 Chase Farm SO9157 Moor SP0160 Birchen Coppice – Chateau Impney SO9164 Finstall Park SO9769 Stoke Bliss SO6463 Church Farm Pools SO9144 Fladbury SO9946 Birlingham SO9343 Churchill SO8879 Ford Farm SO9064 Bishampton SO9951 Clent Hills SO9379 Fort Royal Park SO8554 Bittell Reservoirs SP0174 Clifton Hill SO7261 Four Oaks SO9580 Black Hill - Malvern SO7640 Clifton Pits SO8446 Foxcote SO9383 SP0644 Clifton upon Teme SO7161 Frankley SO9980 Blackstone SO7974 Cofton Res SP0075 Blackwell Court SO9971 Common Farm SO8880 Golden Valley SO7737 Blakedown SO8878 Conderton SO9637 Grafton Wood SO9756 Bluntington SO8974 Coney Meadows SO8762 Great Comberton SO9542 Bodenham Arboretum SO8081 Cookley SO8480 Great Malvern SO7845 Bow Wood SO9455 Cooksey Green SO9069 Greystones SO7977 Bowbrook SO9761 Copcut Elm SO8861 Grimley SO8360 Brake Mill Pool SO8979 Craycombe SO9947 Grimley Old Workings SO8361 Bransford SO7852 Croome Park SO8844 Gullet Quarry SO7638 Breach Farm SO9681 Croome Perry Gwen Finch NR SO9341 Bredicot SO9054 Crossroads SO9046

268 Hagley Hall SO9180 Martley Nubbins SO7559 Shenstone SO8673 Hallow SO8257 Midsummer Hill SO7637 Shire Business Park SO8757 Hallow STWs SO8257 Sinton Green SO8159 Hanbury SO9663 Nafford SO9441 Sixways SO8857 Hanbury Hall SO9463 Naunton Beauchamp SO9652 Sleaford SO9552 Hanley William SO6765 Netherton SO9940 Sling Pool SO8262 Happy Valley SO7645 Netherton Lane SO7769 Snead Common SO7369 Harpley Church SO6861 Netherwood Lane SO9156 Spetchley Park SO8953 Harvington (Avon) SP0549 Ninevah SO6873 Stakenbridge Pool SO8879 Harvington Mill SP0647 Norchard SO8468 Stakumford Marsh SP0052 Hawford SO8565 North Hill SO7646 Stanford Bridge SO7165 Hell Hole SO7163 North Littleton SP0847 Stanford Lake SO7065 Hewell Grange SP0169 Northwick SO8457 Stanford on Teme SO7065 High Green SO8745 Norton SP0347 Stanklyn Lane SO8473 Hill Court Farm SO8334 Nutnells Wood SO9273 Stoke Bliss SO6562 Himbleton SO9458 Stoke Prior SO9466 Hinton on the Green SP0240 Oakley Pool SO8960 Stone SO8575 Hipton Hill Orchard SP0348 Offenham SP0546 Stoulton SO9049 Hodge Hill SO8577 Old Storridge SO7451 Stourvale Marshes SO8277 Hollies Hill SO9377 Old Yew Hill Wood SP0252 Strensham Service Hollywood SP0877 Overbury SO9537 Station SO8940 Holt SO8262 Strensham SLs SO9139 Holt Heath SO8163 Park Plantation SO6964 Sugarloaf SO7645 Hoo Road SO8375 Pebworth SP1347 Summerfield SO8473 Hunnington Farm SO9580 Penny Hill SO7561 Summer Hill SO7644 Hurcott SO8577 Penorchard NR SO9481 Swinyard Hill SO7638 Pensham SO9343 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Pepper Wood SO9374 Tanwood SO9074 Perry Farm (Hartlebury) SO8472 Tapenhall Fishing Pool SO8660 Jinney Ring SO9664 Perry Wood Stoke Bliss SO6261 Tardebigge SO9969 John Bennett NR SO9442 Pershore SO9445 Tardebigge Res SO9868 Pershore Wetlands SO9546 Teme Valley SO7162 Kemerton Lake NR SO9336 Peterbrook Farm SP0978 Temple Dingle SO7064 Kempsey STWs SO8448 Pipers Hill SO9565 Tenbury Wells SO5967 Kidderminster SO8376 Pirton Pool SO8747 The Standbatches SO7164 Knapp and Papermill SO7451 Porters Mill SO8660 Throckmorton Landfill SO9748 Knightwick SO7355 Portway SP0872 Throckmorton Outer Kyre SO6263 Priory Park SO7745 Lagoon SO9848 Kyre Pool SO6263 Purshall Green SO9070 Tibberton SO9057 Tiddesley Wood SO9245 Ladywood Common SO7365 Queenhill Rough SO8636 Tiddington Hall Farm SO9954 Larford SO8169 Timberhonger SO9269 Leigh Sinton SO7750 Redditch SP0467 Top Barn SO8261 Lenchwick SP0347 Redditch Abbey Golf Club SP0569 Trench Wood SO9258 Lickey Hills SO9975 Redditch - Batchley SP0267 Trimpley SO7978 Lickhill Quarry SO7973 Redditch - Ipsley SP0666 Trimpley Res SO7778 Lincomb SO8269 Redditch - Oakenshaw SP0464 Truemans Heath SP0976 Lineholt SO8266 Redditch - Winyates East SP0867 Twatling Road SO9974 Little Buckland SP0736 Redhill SP0550 Little Comberton SO9643 Ripple Pits SO8637 Uckinghall SO8638 Little Malvern SO7740 Rock Coppice SO7163 Uffmoor Farm SO9581 Longdon Marsh SO8235 Romsley SO9679 Uffmoor Wood SO9480 Lower Bittell Res SP0174 Rous Lench SP0153 Upper Arley SO7680 Lower Broadheath SO8056 Rowney Green SP0471 Upper Bittell Res SP0275 Lower Moor SO9847 Ryall Pits SO8639 Upper Hollowfields SO9761 Lower Park SP0470 Upton Snodsbury SO9454 Lower Smite Farm SO8858 Salwarpe SO8761 Upton upon Severn SO8540 Lower Strensham SO9040 Sapey Common (N) SO7064 Upton Warren Flashes SO9366 Lutley Wedge SO9382 Saxons Lode SO8638 Upton Warren Moors SO9367 Severn Stoke SO8544 Upton Warren Sailing Malvern Common SO7744 Shakenhurst SO6772 Lake SO9367 Malvern Hills SO7640 Shanklyn Pool SO8574 Malvern Link SO7847 Shatterford Wood SO7981 Waggon Lane SO8679 Malvern Wells SO7743 Shelsley Beauchamp SO7362 Wagon Wheel Lane Pits SO8360 Martley SO7559 Shelsley Kings SO7264 Walton Hill SO9479

269 Walton Pool SO9378 Wickhamford SP0641 Woolas Hall SO9440 Waseley Hill SO9777 Wilden Marsh SO8273 Worcester SO8554 Wassell Grove SO9382 Wildgoose NR SO8361 Worcester St Johns SO8354 Welland SO7940 Wildmoor Quarry SO9575 Worcestershire Beacon SO7645 West Hagley SO9080 Witley Court SO7664 Wribbenhall Hill SO7975 West Malvern SO7646 Wood Norton SP0147 Wyre Forest SO7475 West Midland Safari Park SO8075 Wood Street SO8044 Wyre Piddle SO9647 Westwood Pool SO8763 Woodbury Hill SO7464 Wythall Park SP0776 Weyman’s Wood SO7261 Woodrow SO8875 Wick SO9645 Woods Farm SP1077

Staffordshire Abraham’s Valley SK0020 Brinepit Bridge SJ9726 Dydon Wood SK1344 Adbaston SJ7627 Britannia Stadium SJ8843 Alrewas SK1614 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 Eardley End SJ7952 Alton SK0742 Bromley Pool SJ7735 East Bishton SK0320 Alvecote SK2405 Brookleys Lake SK0943 Eccleshall SJ8329 Amington SK2304 Bunkers Hill SO8782 Elford + Anslow SK2125 Burston SJ9330 Fisherwick North Pit SK1711 Aqualate Mere SJ7720 Burton-on-Trent SK2523 Elkstone SK0658 Aston Lodge Park SJ9133 Endon STW SJ9354 Aston Marina SJ9131 Cadet Huts SJ9918 Enville GC SO8488 Aston-Burston Trail SJ9330 Camp Farm SJ7324 Essington Hall Farm SJ9503 Audley SJ7950 Castle Ring SK0412 Etruria SJ8647 Audley Meadows SJ7949 Caverswall SJ9542 Audley WTW SJ7951 Cawarden Springs Farm SK0618 Fauld SK1828 Chase Road SJ9717 Foker Grange SJ9657 Back Forest SJ9865 Chasewater Res SK0308 Ford Green NR SJ8950 Back Forest Farm SJ9766 Checkhill Mill SO8587 Forest Wood SJ9965 Baggeridge Wood SO8993 Checkley SK0237 Forster Bridge SJ9003 Bagot’s Park SK0827 Cheddleton SJ9752 Freehay SK0241 Baldwins Gate SJ7940 Chillington Pool SJ8606 Barlaston SJ8938 Churnet Valley NR SK0942 Gailey Res SJ9310 Barton Gate SK1719 Clay Mills SK2627 Gentleshaw Common SK0511 Barton GP SK1916 Coal Brook SJ7232 Gibbetts Wood SO8683 Barton under Codsall SJ8703 Gibbetts Wood Quarry SO8684 Needwood SK1818 Colwich SK0121 Glacial Boulder SJ9818 Basford SJ8546 Congreave SJ9013 Glascote SK2203 Baswich SJ9422 Consall SJ9748 Gnosall SJ8321 Bateswood CP SJ7947 Consall CP SJ9948 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Bearda SJ9664 Consall Valley SJ9948 Gothersley SO8687 Belvide Res SJ8610 Consall Wood SJ9948 Gradbach SJ9965 Beresford Dale SK1259 Coombes Valley SK0052 Gradbach Hill East SK0065 Berry Hill SJ9046 Copmere SJ8029 Gunstone SJ8704 Berry Hill Fields SJ9045 Coton in the Clay SK1729 Biddulph Grange CP SJ8959 Cresswell SJ9739 Hales Hall Pool SK0143 Bignall End SJ8051 Crossplains SK1624 Hall Dale SK1353 Bishop’s Wood SJ7433 Croxall Lakes SK1814 Hanchurch Woods SJ8239 Black Bank SK2209 Croxden Quarry SK0341 Hanley SJ8847 Blackclough SK0169 Croxton SJ7832 Hanley Forest Park SJ8848 Blackclough SK0169 Cuckoo Bank SK0210 Hawksmoor NR SK0344 Blake Hall Fishery SJ9943 Cudmore Fishing Pools SJ8142 Heath Hayes SK0110 Blithfield Res SK0523 Curborough SK1312 Hednesford Hills SK0112 Blurton SJ8942 Hen Cloud SK0061 Bobbington SO8090 Danebridge SJ9665 Highgate Common SO8490 Borrowpit Lake SK2004 Dilhorne SJ9743 Hill Ridware SK0717 Botteslow Flash SJ8946 Dimmingsdale SK0543 Himley Hall SO8891 Brancote STW SJ9522 Dovedale Castle SK1451 Hixon Airfield SJ9927 Brankley Pastures NR SK1620 Downs Banks SJ9036 Hoar Cross SK1323 Branston GP SK2120 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Hulme North SJ9346 Branston Leas SK2219 Draycott Mill SK1630 Branston WP SJ9916 Drystone Edge SK0268 I54 SJ9004 Brewood SJ8808 Dunstall SK1820 Ingestre SJ9724 Brindley Ford SJ8755 Dunstall Hall SK1920 Ingestre Hall SJ9724

270 Ipstones SK0249 Oakamoor SK0544 Stourton Ridge SO8784 Iverley SO8881 Oaklands Farm SJ9306 Stretton SJ8811 Iverley House Farm SO8781 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Sugar Loaf Farm SO8881 Onecote Moor SK0456 Sugnall SJ7930 Jackson’s Marsh SJ7829 Orchard Common SK0269 Sutton SJ7622 JCB South Lake SK1038 Ossoms Hill SK0955 Swallow Moss SK0660 Swallow’s Mere SJ9721 Keele SJ8245 Park Farm SJ7718 Swineholes Wood SK0450 Keele - Lymes Road SJ8144 Park Hall SJ9244 Keele University SJ8244 Park Hall GP SJ9243 Tameside NR SK2002 Kemsey Manor SJ7624 Parkhill Farm SJ7334 Tamworth SK2004 Kettlebrook LNR SK2003 Pendeford Mill NR SJ8903 The Clive Farm SO8297 Kidsgrove SJ8354 Penkridge SJ9213 Tittesworth Res SJ9960 Kingsley SK0046 Pool Hall Res SO8596 Tixall SJ9722 Kingswood Bank SJ8540 Poplars Tip SJ9909 Toadhole Bridge SK1443 Kingswood Pool SJ9908 Preston Hill SJ9014 Trent Vale SJ8644 Knotbury SK0168 Preston Vale SJ9114 Trentham Gardens SJ8640 Knypersley Res SJ8955 Prestwood SK1042 Trysull SO8493 Pretty Pigs Pool SK2405 Tucklesholme NR SK1820 Leawood SJ7624 Punchbowl SJ9820 Tunstall - Adbaston SJ7727 Leek SJ9956 Turbine Cottage SO8780 Lichfield - Stowe Pool SK1109 Radford Meadows SJ9321 Turn Edge SK0167 Little Bank Top Farm SJ9646 Radial Park SJ8742 Tutbury SK2128 Little Haywood SK0021 Readyleech Green SK0268 Tyrley SJ6932 Little Iverley Covert SO8883 River Sow Meadows SJ9422 Longdon SK0714 Roaches SK0063 Upper Elkstone SK0559 Lordsley Quarry SJ7437 Rocester Pools SK1039 Uttoxeter SK0833 Lower Elkstone SK0758 Round Knowl Farm SK0562 Uttoxeter Quarry SK0935 Lower Foxley SJ9653 Rudyard Lake SJ9459 Loynton Moss SJ7824 Rugeley SK0417 Walley’s Landfill SJ8346 Walton Bridge SJ9621 Maer Hills SJ7839 Sharpley Heath SJ9635 Wedgwood Monument SJ8251 Manifold Valley SK1055 Shebdon SJ7525 West End SJ8744 Marchington Woodlands SK1430 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Westlands SJ8344 Marshes Hill SJ9054 Shoal Hill SJ9611 Weston Jones Mill SJ7523 Meir SJ9341 Shugborough Hall SJ9821 Westport Lake SJ8550 Mere Hall SO8289 Silverdale CP SJ8146 Wetley Moor SJ9448 Meretown SJ7520 Sittles SK1712 Wettonmill SK0955 Middle Mayfield SK1444 Sniddles SK0065 Whitemoor Haye SK1813 Middleton Lakes SK2000 South Farley SK0643 Whitfield alleyV NR SJ8852 Milford SJ9721 Stableford SJ8138 Whitmore - Bent Lane SJ8139 Milldale SK1354 Stafford SJ9223 Whittington SK1608 Million Plantation SO8486 Stanley Matthews Way SJ8842 Wilson Knowl SK0266 Morrilow Heath SJ9835 Stanley Pool SJ9351 Wolf Edge SK0267 Moss Pool SJ7520 Stoke-on-Trent SJ8745 Wolstanton SJ8547 Stone SJ9034 Wychnor SK1816 Norbury SJ7823 Stoneydelph SK2302 Wyrley Hayes SK0205 Northycote Farm SJ9303 Stourbridge Canal SO8485 Stourton SO8685

West Midlands Aldridge SK0500 Bickenhill Plantation SP1984 Buckpool & Fens Pools Alexander Stadium SP0692 Bilston SO9596 LNR SO9087 to SO9188 Allesley SP2981 Birmingham SP8606 Buckpool LNR SO9087 Allesley Park SP2880 Birmingham Airport SP1783 Alcott Wood SP1785 Blythe Valley Park SP1375 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Amblecote SO8986 Bournville SP0481 Castle Hills SP1782 Bournville Lane Park SP0381 Catherine-de-Barnes SP1880 Babbs Mill (Kingshurst) SP1688 Brandwood End Chadwick End SP2075 Baggeridge CP SO89 Cemetery SP0780 Chelmsley Wood SP1886 Barr Beacon SP0598 Bromsgrove SO9877 Clayhanger Marsh SK0304 Barston SP2077 Brookvale Park SP0991 Coomeswood Wedge SO9784 Bartley Reservoir SP0081 Brueton Park NR SP1679 Cornets End SP2280 Berkswell SP2378 Coseley SO9493

271 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Marsh Lane NR SP2180 Shirley Quarry SP0978 Coventry SP3378 Marston Green SP1785 Siden Hill Wood SP2180 Mercote Mill SP2280 Small Heath Park SP1085 Dartmouth Park SP0191 Merecroft Pool Smestow Valley Dickens Heath SP1176 LNR SP0478 to SP0686 LNR SJ8900 to SO8697 Dobbins Oak SO9282 Meriden SP2482 Solihull SP1579 Dorridge Park SP1574 Meriden Shafts SP2583 Star Farm (Wolverh’ton) SO8996 Mesty Croft SO9994 Stirchley SP0581 Eastcote SP1979 Minworth SP1691 Stourbridge SO9084 Edgbaston SP0583 Monkspath SP1476 Stourbridge Canal Arm SO88 Edgbaston Pool SP0583 Moseley SP0882 Stourbridge Junction SO9083 Edgbaston Res SP0486 SP0982 Streetly SP0799 Elmdon Park SP1682 Stubber’s Green SK0401 Nailcote Hall SP2677 Sutton Coldfield SP1196 Fens Pools LNR SO9188 Natiional Exhibition Sutton Park NNR SP0996 Fishley Lane (Walsall) SK0003 Centre SP1984 Swanshurst Park SP0981 Forge Mill Lake SP0392 Netherton Res SO9387 Fulford Heath SP0975 Norton SO8982 Tack Farm (Halesowen) SO9581 Temple Balsall SP2076 Good Hope Hospital SP1296 Olton SP1382 Tenacre Fields SP0581 Goscote Valley SK0101 Olton Mere SP1381 The Leasowes SO9783 Great Barr SP0494 Tile Hill SP2878 Great Wyrley SO9683 Park Lime Pits SP0299 Trittiford Mill Pool SP0980 Parkes Hall Res SO9392 Tyseley SP1184 Halesowen SO9683 Pelsall North Common SK0104 Hampton in Arden SP2081 Pendeford SJ8902 Upper Gornal SO9492 Handsworth Wood SP0590 Pendeford Mill SJ8902 Harborne NR SP0284 Perry Hall Park SP0691 Valley Parkway SP0381 Hawkes End Farm SP2982 Plantsbrook NR SP1392 High Ash (north Meriden) SP2584 Priory Mill Pool SP1079 Wall Heath SO8789 Highfields Park SO9683 Pype Hayes Park SP1392 Walsall SP0198 Highgate SP0885 Walsall Arboretum SP0299 Highters Heath SP0779 Quarry Bank SO9385 Walsall GC SP0296 Hillfield Park SP1477 West Bromwich SP0091 Hockley Heath SP1572 Ravenshaw SP1779 West Park SO9099 Hollywood SP0877 Red House Park SP0494 Westwood Heath SP2776 Reedswood Park SO9999 Whitlock’s End SP2278 Keatley’s Pool SP2483 River Cole SP1084 to SP1287 Willenhall SO9698 Kingfisher CP SP1488 River Rea SP0682 Winterbourne SP0583 King’s Norton SP0579 Rowheath Pavillion SP0480 Winterbourne Gardens SP0583 King’s Norton LNR SP0479 Rowley Regis SO9688 Withymoor Pool SO9085 Kingshurst SP1688 Rushall Canal SP0399 Witton Lakes SP0892 Kingstanding SP0895 Wollaston SO8883 Kingswinford SO8988 Saltwells LNR SO9387 Wolverhampton SO9198 Knowle SP1875 Sandwell Valley SP0292 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Sedgley SO9095 Woodsetton SO9292 Ladywood SP0586 Sedgley Beacon SO9194 Wychall Res SP0379 Lea Village SP1487 Selly Oak SP0382 Wyken Croft SP3780 Lee Bank SP0685 Seth Somers Park SP9682 Wylde Green SP1294 Lifford Res SP0579 Shard End SP1588 Lint Meadow SP0877 Sheepwash UP SO9791 Lutley Wedge SO9483 Shirley SP1178

272 The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the Systematic List. Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone. It would greatly help compilation if observers could give their full set of initials with their records, as this helps to identify them more uniquely and so cuts down the risk of confusion between similar names or sets of initials. The initials quoted below appear in the body of the report.

M Ab Owen J Asbury JG Barnett JGB MP Bevan DJ Abbott JA Asbury SM Barnett E Bibbings P Abbott K Aslett KAs K Barnsley L Bicknell S Abbott SAb R Astbury M Barstow P Biggs S Ablett I Aston S Batchelor C Bill P Adams S Atkinson SAt D Bate RA Birch D Agombar SP Atkinson SPA P Bate M Birkin JA Alexander J Attiwell P Bateman R Blackmore B Allen M Averill J Bates C Blakey S Allen A Avery GS Batho A Blaydon ABl T Allen J Ayres H Batson JS Bleby S Allison C Batty AC Bletchly D Allott L Bailey CG Batty SC Bletchly A Ambrose AAm E Bainbridge J Beale AC Blinston J Anderson T Baits-Tomlin O Beardsmore S Bloomfield P Andrews D Baker DBA DJ Beckett S Bodnar N Anscomb NAn R Baker S Beckett SBe N Boldock P Anthony EOS Baldeston EOSB P Beckhelling K Bollington GF Appleton S Baldwin R Beddall C Bond AL Arampoglou M Ball MBa A Bellamy MD Boote MDB MG Archer MGA S Ball JT Belsey JTB A Booth GJ Ariss GJA J Banton E Bembow M Bourne MBo G Armitt S Barker P Bennett C Bourne MA Arnold SRJ Barker D Benton P Bowen S Arnold NP Barlow NPB J Berreen K Bowgen W Arrowsmith D Barnes J Bescoby JJ Bowley JJB C Arthurton G Barnett E Betteridge EBe T Bowyer J Bradbury JBr T Claye TCl P Dedicoat V Fleming L Bradbury LBr S Clement D Denney S Fletcher R Bradbury C Clements CCl GRJ Dent L Flower D Bradford S Clements SCl K Dewey P Fontana K Brannan KBr G Clements R Dickens JM Forbes S Brealey J Cliffe W Dickens PA Forbes PAF G Brereton R Clifford J Dickinson H Forbes S Brewer J Clift G Ditchburn MA Foster MAF D Briggs DBr L Clipson J Dix S Foster M Brittain R Clipson RCli S Dix R Fowler I Broadbent H Clixby P Dobson D Fowler RC Broadbent J Cloves K Donaghy KDo A Fox C Brooks A Cobley ACo P Douthwaite D Franklin J Brown S Cole SCol A Dove H Franklin NH Brown A Cole MJ Dove B Fraser RM Brown M Coleman A Downs N Fresson S Brown D Collins DCollins R Downs S Frost SFr J Bryan S Collins T Dray T Frost T Buck D Collis DCollis M Drew SJ Fry A Buckel M Colquhoun D Drewery D Fryer-Saxby FC Buckel MD Convery E Drewitt C Furley R Bufton S Cook EJA Drewitt R Fussell J Bull JL Coombes JLC RE Duckhouse RED D Bunce DR Cooper N Duggan NDu C Gammond JE Bundy JA Cooper J Dunn S Gardiner G Burgess S Corbyn W Dutton WDu L Garner T Burke D Corfield DCor P Dykta PDy P Garner P Burston G Corfield L Dyson T Garner D Butler A Cormack S Garton P Butler S Cossey L Easom L Gerber I Buttriss M Cottingham M Easterbrook A Gibb A Byres D Cox DCox R Ebrey A Gibbons AGib S Cox S Edgington M Gibbons T Cadwallender D Cragg P Edlin PEdl S Gibbons H Caines RC Crawley A Edwards M Gibbs A Canning M Creighton J Edwards JEd C Giblin M Cardall MCa P Croft PCr L Edwards S Gibson I Carter S Croft P Edwards PEdw T Gibson-Poole N Carter A Crook S Edwards R Gilbert T Carter M Crump V Emery A Giles W Carter MC Crump DW Emley GP Giles GGi B Carthy MJ Cuff SM Emley S Gill SGi J Cartwright A Cundall P Endersby W Gill T Cartwright TCa M Curnow C Evans M Gillingham P Casey A Curran ACu DG Evans VF Gilson PW Cashmore PWC K Curran-White G Evans MF Godfrey JJ Cassidy L Evans A Godson R Castle B Daniels M Evans N Godwin S Caswell R Darsley P Evans B Goldstraw A Cawthray A Davies R Evans A Gomez SL Cawthray SLC AC Davies T Evans D Goodwin M Chadwick C Davies CDa LJ Evans-Hill AN Gorsuch A Chambers G Davies T Eyre PF Gough R Chance R Davies R Eyres I Grant N Chapman S Davies SDa KR Grant M Chappell C Davies G Farmer MG Grant P Chappell JF Davis C Farrell C Gray AP Chick M Davis M Fennell MFe N Greatholder C Cholerton N Davis NDa U Fenton DB Green F Clark R Davis J Ferguson M Green G Clarke D Day A Fern C Greenfield L Clarke T de Clermont TdeC J Field D Griffin JD Clarke AR Dean ARD J Fincham JFi MA Griffin G Clarkson G Deane P Fincham PFi T Griffin R Clay K Deane M Flack MFl T Griffiths

274 JD Groom P Hodges PHod AL Jones I Loftus A Grove B Hodgkinson B Jones A Long PJ Gruar J Hogg C Jones P Long C Gunnell-Joyce CGJ C Holder CM Jones G Lowe J Holian D Jones JA Lowes PM Hackett PHM T Holland J Jones A Lucas M Hadlington MHa A Holliday AHo JF Jones K Ludlow G Haigh S Holliday JP Jones I Lycett M Hails P Holmes PHol M Jones MJo G Halden P Hopcroft PHop P Jones I Machin IMa C Hall R Hopkins RHo T Jones S Macvie D Hall DHa R Horner T Jordan A Mansell KD Hall KDH C Horsfall CHo RA Juckes GJ Mant GJM S Hall A Horsley JFC Judge JFCJ M Marcaigh WD Hall GW Hudson JH Marchant R Halsey B Hughes D Kay T Marlow TMa S Halsey J Hughes AR Kelly N Marriner SA Halsey K Hughes L Kelly C Martell H Halstead P Hughes T Kelly S Martell A Hambury AHa R Hughes D Kelsall DKe G Martin J Hamer JHam RG Hughes J Kenny JKe J Martin L Hamer LHam I Hull J Kernohan R Maskew RMa L Hammersley E Hulme EHu R Key RKe A Mason AMa B Hammond P Humby R Kinchin P Masters S Hampton B Hunt RJ King RJK K Mather A Hand G Hunt GHu H King J Mathers JMa P Hands D Hunter G Kirby T Mathieu J Hannam M Husselbee CP Kirk A Matthews PJ Hanson J Hutchins J Kirkham VA Matthews RE Harbird REH JVP Hutchins J Knightbridge D Mayfield DM Hardgrave T Hutton THu RWS Knightbridge RC Mays RCM J Hardy G Huxley RWSK S McAvoy S Hares SHa A Hyatt JC Knights D Mcbride J Harris JHar PD Hyde PDH J Kornjaca K McGee L Harrison LHar S Hyde H Krajenbrink A Mckie T Hartley-Woolley AW Kydd T Mckinney I Hartnell J Ingham P McNeil D Hartwell M Inskip MJI R Lancey A McPherson AMcP A Hashmi B Isles CJ Lane CJL C McShane J Hawkins M Islip MIs R Langford D Mead C Hawkridge L Ison LIs C Lankester J Meakin JMe AN Haycock M Ixer MIx P J Meed SM Haynes SMH S Larman M Metcalf I Hayward AG Jackson R Lashley S Micklewright SMi B Hazell BHaz C Jackson SJ Law S Middleton R Hemming D Jackson JA Lawrence HJ Miller F Henderson M Jackson J Lay P Miller L Henson P Jackson E Lea C Millward Y Heward WT Jackson C Lee CLe R Millward TC Hextell TCH M Jackson MJa A Leggett J Milner SGA Hextell SGAH S Jaggs A Lewis R Minors A Hibbert C James M Lewis MLe E Monteith M Hickman MD James MDJ MJ Lewis MJL K Moore R Hicks P Jenkins PJe P Lewis PLe G Morris M Higham S Jenkins S Lewis GE Morris C Hiles CHi D Jennings K Leyland I Morris CE Hill CEH SJ Jennings P Lichfield PLi J Mortin TJ Hill D Jeynes MJS Liley J Morton R Hillier K Jim S Lilly R Murphy RD Hind L Johnson ME Lindsey S Murphy SH Hind LC Johnson J Lingard JLi JB Murray M Hines P Johnson A Litvinoff D Napier TM Hinett TMH S Johnson S Llewellyn R Hoare T Joinston S Loaring SLo A Nash M Hobson A Jones P Locker R Nash

275 M Needham L Phipps M Rowe IA Stachnicki RE Newby S Pick SPi GP Rowling GPR G Standing B Newman SM Pick J Rumble R Stanton PAJ Newman PAJN A Pitt APi JM Rushforth MP Stanyer C Newton M Pittaway MPi G Russon P Stayte D Newton M Plant S Ryan L Stead R Nibbs A Platt APl RL Stein RJB Nibbs M Pollard M Sald A Stevens D Nicholls ND Pomiankowski NDP G Sales A Stewart SC Nichols SCN S Pont L Sanderson K Stockton KSt I Nield P Pope PPo D Saunders DSa R Stott RSt S Noble S Posen S Saunders SSa M Stout S Noel J Powell S Savage D Strath T Norledge R Powell DJ Scanlan DJS BR Stretch BRS D Northside MJ Preece A Scarborough TA Stretton S Nuthall SNu A Price F Scarborough R Strong G Price R Scase RSc RB Strong B Oakley T Price DA Scattergood DAS M Stubbs P Oakley S Primrose D Scott DSc J Sumner J Oates JOa C Print CPr P Scott J Sutherland SP Oates M Print MPr S Seal JA Sutherland E O’Conner CE Pritchard P Seligman M Sutton J O’Hanlon P Proctor PM Seligman RW Swift RWSw J Oliver BG Prudden BGP A Shaw PJ Swinhoe D Orange R Prudden RAP M Shaw J Orme KTP Pryce M Sheard N Talbot NTa RA Orton RAO AG Sheffield P Tapley E Osbaldeston V Quinn R Sheldon M Tarnavska C Owen I Sheridan J Taverner D Owen MP Radford I Sherriffs A Taylor P Owen POw R Rafe RRa L Sherwell P Taylor T Owens RW Rafe E Shilland S Taylor A Ramsell R Shotton TB Taylor A Palmer N Rawlings M Silverman MSi J Thickitt G Palmer J Ray B Simmonds WSi A Thomas ATh K Palmer R Ready A Simons G Thomas M Palmer MPa J Reavey JRea A Singh M Thomas R Palmer B Reavey BRea J Sirrett C Thomson CTh J Parham J Reavy JRe JH Sirrett JHS K Thorpe N Park P Reay RW Skeates RWSk J Tibbets D Parker C Reed CRe PA Sketch J Tilby J Parker A Reglar N Skilbeck NSk AD Tindale M Parr K Reilly M Skirrow LR Tipping D Parry-Davies DPD J Renowden I Slater D Tomkinson J Patrick AR Rhodes M Smart M Tomlinson K Patrick KPa P Rhodes PRh B Smith BSm D Tompkins S Payne SPa M Ribbons KE Smith J Toogood TG Payne SA Richards M Smith MSm R Toon A Pearce B Richardson P Smith PSm C Topping D Peats DPe D Rickards DRi R Smith P Townsend K Peck B Rickett BRic RL Smith RLS J Tromans R Peck JHW Ridley JHWR S Smith B Trott C Peel M Ridley SCH Smith NS Trout T Pegnall P Robbins V Smith T Trueman F Peplow A Roberts D Snaddon B Tuck G Peplow GHP G Roberts P Sofley PSo J Tucker JTuc P Percival S Roberts F Sollitt C Turner T Perrins SP Roberts SPR M Southall S Turner M Perryman M Roberts R Southwell SJ Turner A Peters C Robertson J Sparey JSp G Twells C Phelps J Robertson IM Spence D Tyler A Phelpstead D Robinson S Spence R Tyler A Phillips J Robinson P Spokes JM Tyndall AL Phillips C Round CRo M Spriggs MSp A Tysoe N Phillips I Rowat R Stacey

276 M Ui Hawker RA Walker RAW B Wheal K Wood A Uren S Walker K Wheatley J Woodcock JWo DIM Wallace J Wheeler G Woodin C Vaghela P Wallis M Wheeler C Woods R Val K Wardlaw KWa MJ Wheeler P Woods PWoo S Valentine R Wardle RWa M Wheller J Woodward K Varley CJ Waring P Whitehead PFW M Woodward KA Varley A Warr AWa S Whitehouse C Workman S Varley SD Watchorn SDW V Whiteman N Workman T Varney D Watson DWat J Whitmore L Worth J Vaughan T Weale A Wilkie DI Wragg R Vaughan DE Webb C Williams D Wright D Vickers DVi KS Webb D Williams H Wright D Viles S Webster G Williams GWi J Wright JWr DJ Viles K Wedgbury R Williams N Wright B Vivian C Wells CS Williamson V Wright I Wells P Wills M Wyre J Wain S Wells A Wilson AWi M Wakeman TJ Wells JR Winsper JRW J Yardley M Waldbridge MWa SP Wende P Winters K Yates KYa D Walker DWal J Western M Wood R Yeoman Walker P Walker B Westwood T Wood

Banbury Ornithological Society BOS Mercian Birding Blog Belvide Log Mercian/Tame Valley Birding Blithfield Log Middleton Lakes RSPB Brandon Marsh Vounteers Conservation Team BMVCT Nuneaton & District Birdwatchers Club Brandon Ringing Group Brewood Ringers RSPB BTO WeBS South Warwickshire Barn Owl Survey, SWBOS Chasewater Log Staffordshire Bird Blog Coombes Valley RSPB Warwick Natural History Society, WNHS https://www.trektellen.org/ www.birdguides.com

277 Index to Species

Avocet 80 Garganey 30 Jay, Eurasian 144 Godwit, Bar-tailed 91 Bittern, Eurasian 60 Godwit, Black-tailed 91 Kestrel, Common 139 Blackbird 177 Goldcrest 171 Kingfisher, Common 136 Blackcap 167 Goldeneye, Common 48 Kite, Red 72 Brambling 203 Goldfinch 212 Kittiwake 109 Bufflehead 218 Goosander 49 Knot, Red 93 Bullfinch 206 Goose, Bar-headed 219 Bullfinch, Orange 221 Goose, Barnacle 17 Lapwing, Northern 82 Bunting, Corn 215 Goose, Brent 15 Lark, Shore 154 Bunting, Lapland 214 Goose, Canada 15 Linnet 208 Bunting, Reed 217 Goose, Egyptian 26 Bunting, Snow 215 Goose, Greenland White-f 21 Magpie 144 Buzzard, Common 72 Goose, Greylag 18 Mallard 37 Goose, Pink-footed 20 Martin, House 156 Chaffinch 202 Goose, Red-breasted 218 Martin, Sand 154 Chiffchaff, Common 162 Goose, Snow 218 Merganser, Red-breasted 51 Chiffchaff, Siberian 163 Goose, White-fronted 21 Merlin 140 Coot, Common 76 Goshawk, Northern 70 Moorhen 74 Cormorant, Great 67 Grebe, Black-necked 58 Crake, Corn 74 Grebe, Great Crested 56 Nightingale, Common 184 Crake, Spotted 74 Grebe, Little 55 Nightjar, European 134 Crane, Common 78 Grebe, Red-necked 56 Nuthatch, Eurasian 173 Crossbill, Common 211 Grebe, Slavonian 58 Crow, Carrion 147 Greenfinch 207 Osprey 68 Cuckoo, Common 131 Greenshank 108 Ouzel, Ring 176 Curlew, Eurasian 90 Grouse, Red 51 Owl, Barn 132 Guineafowl, Helmeted 220 Owl, Little 133 Dipper 192 Gull, Black-headed 110 Owl, Long-eared 133 Diver, Black-throated 54 Gull, Caspian 119 Owl, Short-eared 134 Diver, Great Northern 54 Gull, Common 115 Owl, Tawny 132 Diver, Red-throated 54 Gull, Glaucous 117 Oystercatcher 78 Dotterel 88 Gull, Great Black-backed 116 Dove, Collared 130 Gull, Herring 118 Parakeet, Alexandrine 221 Dove, Diamond 220 Gull, Iceland 117 Parakeet, Rose-ringed 143 Dove, Stock 128 Gull, Kumlien’s 118 Partridge, Grey 52 Dove, Turtle 130 Gull, Lesser Black-backed 122 Partridge, Red-legged 52 Duck, Fulvous Whistling 219 Gull, Little 112 Phalarope, Grey 101 Duck, Long-tailed 48 Gull, Mediterranean 113 Phalarope, Red-necked 101 Duck, Mandarin 29 Gull, Ring-billed 116 Pheasant, Common 53 Duck, Marbled 218 Gull, Yellow-legged 120 Pheasant, Golden 218 Duck, Muscovy 220 Pheasant, Reeves’s 220 Duck, Ruddy 51 Harrier, Hen 71 Pigeon, Feral 128 Duck, Tufted 44 Harrier, Marsh 70 Pigeon, Wood 129 Duck, Wood 220 Harrier, Montagu’s 71 Pintail 39 Dunlin 96 Hawfinch 205 Pipit, Meadow 199 Dunnock 194 Hawk, Harris’s 220 Pipit, Rock 202 Heron, Grey 61 Pipit, Tree 200 Egret, Cattle 60 Heron, Purple 62 Pipit, Water 201 Egret, Great White 63 Hobby 141 Plover, European Golden 83 Egret, Little 64 Honey-buzzard 69 Plover, Grey 85 Hoopoe 137 Plover, Little Ringed 87 Falcon, Peregrine 142 Hybrids, Anas/Mareca 42 Plover, Ringed 85 Fieldfare 178 Hybrids, Aythya 46 Pochard, Common 43 Firecrest 171 Hybrids, Goose 21 Pochard, Red-crested 42 Flycatcher, Pied 185 Hybrids, Gull 123 Flycatcher, Spotted 183 Quail, Common 53 Ibis, Glossy 59 Gadwall 33 Rail, Water 73 Gannet, Northern 66 Jackdaw 145 Raven, Common 147

278 Redpoll, Common 210 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 69 Turnstone 92 Redpoll, Lesser 210 Spoonbill, Eurasian 59 Redshank, Common 105 Starling, Common 175 Wagtail, “Channel” 196 Redshank, Spotted 107 Starling, Rose-coloured 174 Wagtail, Grey 196 Redstart, Black 186 Stint, Little 97 Wagtail, Pied 197 Redstart, Common 186 Stint, Temminck’s 95 Wagtail, White 198 Redwing 179 Stonechat, European 189 Wagtail, Yellow 195 Rhea, Great 219 Stone-curlew 78 Warbler, Cetti’s 158 Robin 184 Stork, White 59 Warbler, Dusky 160 Rook 146 Swallow, Barn 155 Warbler, Garden 168 Ruff 94 Swallow, Red-rumped 158 Warbler, Grasshopper 166 Swan, Bewick’s 24 Warbler, Reed 165 Saker 218 Swan, Black 219 Warbler, Sedge 164 Sanderling 95 Swan, Mute 22 Warbler, Willow 161 Sandpiper, Common 102 Swan, Whooper 24 Warbler, Wood 159 Sandpiper, Curlew 95 Swan, Whooper x Mute 26 Warbler, Yellow-browed 160 Sandpiper, Green 104 Swift, Common 135 Waxwing 148 Sandpiper, Pectoral 97 Wheatear, Greenland 192 Sandpiper, White-rumped 97 Teal, Eurasian 40 Wheatear, Northern 190 Sandpiper, Wood 107 Teal, Green-winged 42 Whimbrel 88 Scaup, Greater 46 Tern, Arctic 126 Whinchat 188 Scoter, Common 47 Tern, Black 127 Whitethroat, Common 170 Shag 66 Tern, Common 124 Whitethroat, Lesser 169 Shelduck, Common 27 Tern, Little 124 Wigeon, American 37 Shelduck, Common x Ruddy 29 Tern, Sandwich 124 Wigeon, Chiloe 220 Shelduck, Ruddy 218 Tern, White-winged Black 127 Wigeon, Eurasian 35 Shoveler 31 Thrush, Mistle 182 Woodcock 97 Shrike, Great Grey 143 Thrush, Song 181 Woodlark 152 Siskin 213 Tit, Bearded 152 Woodpecker, Great Spotted 138 Skylark 152 Tit, Blue 150 Woodpecker, Green 138 Smew 49 Tit, Coal 149 Woodpecker, Lesser Spotted 137 Snipe, Common 99 Tit, Great 151 Wren 172 Snipe, Jack 98 Tit, Long-tailed 159 Wryneck 137 Sparrow, House 193 Tit, Marsh 149 Sparrow, House x Tree 194 Tit, Willow 150 Yellowhammer 216 Sparrow, Tree 193 Treecreeper, Eurasian 174 Yellowlegs, Lesser 105

279 West Midland Bird Club

Founded in 1929 by a small group of enthusiasts headed by W.E. Groves, the Birmingham Bird Club, as it was then known, has developed into the society that exists today, which covers the counties of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands. Supporting the West Midland Bird Club is a positive step in conserving important habitat and ensuring the further development of our ornithological knowledge. Members receive a copy of the quarterly Club Newsletter, WMBC News, and a copy of the WMBC Annual Report, The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands. Local branches arrange indoor meetings and field trips while WMBC Field Trips organise bird watching field trips to sites of birding interest further afield. The Club manages four Bird Reserves, Ladywalk in Warwickshire, Belvide and Blithfield in Staffordshire and Harborne in West Midlands. Further details on gaining access to these reserves can be found on the Club’s website. There are five levels of Club membership,Inclusive , which includes access to all four Club reserves, Standard, which does not include reserve access but provides all other benefits of club membership,18/23 Birder Membership - Age 18-23 and Young Birder Membership - Age 16-17 are both subscription reduced, age-related membership categories, and Joint Membership, which is open to the Spouse/Partner of a fully paid up Standard or Inclusive member. The West Midland Bird Club’s website Join page provides a full explanation of all five membership categories Using the West Midland Bird Club website will provide you with all the information that is required in making you aware of how this Club functions. Alternatively contact the West Midland Bird Club Secretary: [email protected] The West Midland Bird Club is a registered charity No. 213311 Website: www.westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk Twitter: @WestMidBirdClub

280 Why not try before you buy?

We carry one of the largest displays of optical instruments in the UK, available for you to test and compare in our very own nature reserve.

SWAROVSKI Personal friendly service with over 38 years experience NL Pure Excellent deals and offers available AVAILABLE Try out in our very own Nature Reserve FROM SEPT 2020 Outdoor clothing by Country Innovation, Paramo, Ridgeline and Tilley Bird Feed & Feeders by CJ Wildbird, Nuttery, Squirrel Buster and own brand birdfood ZEISS SF 32 Plenty of Free Parking AVAILABLE Repair service offered FROM SEPT 2020

Leading specialist in high quality Binoculars, Showrooms NOW OPEN* Telescopes, Tripods & Outdoor Clothing Mon - Sat Focus Optics, Church Lane, Corley, Coventry CV7 8BA [email protected] Tel: 01676 540501 www.focusopticsltd.co.uk *COVID-19 To keep our staff & customers safe, we kindly ask that you COME PREPARED WITH FACE MASK & GLOVES Mail order still available but delivery might take slightly longer than usual. Please check website for more details.

We stock Europe’s largest range of optics & accessories for birders including many leading brands: Acuter, Barr & Stroud, Billingham, Braun, Bresser, Celestron, Country Innovation, Cullmann, Dorr, Hawke, Helios, Hilkinson, Kite, Kowa, Leica, Meade, Minox, Novagrade, Olivon, Optech, Opticron, PhoneSkope, Praktica, Scopac, Skua, Steiner, Swarovski, Tilley, Vanguard, Velbon, Viking, Visionary, Vortex, Walkstool & Zeiss together with an extensive range of books & DVDs.

Whether you are choosing your very first pair of binoculars or spotting scope or require technical knowledge on how to gain the best results from digiscoping, our team of local birders is always happy to help. Equipment can be ‘field tested’ at our Worcester store.