The Newsletter of The Bird Watching and Preservation Society No 34 - Winter 2010 New iSpot website from Open University is launched Anyone with even a passing interest in the load this to iSpot, or describe what you saw, The Open University is working alongside natural world will be fascinated by The Open and the friendly community of iSpotters will 14 other institutions to develop iSpot as part University’s new iSpot website help you. Putting a name to a creature is the of the Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) initia- (www.ispot.org.uk). The site enables every- key to learning more about it and sharing tive. The site is part of the University’s Bio- one, from casual observers to experienced your interest in nature with others.” diversity Observatory which is funded wildlife watchers, to create and share person- The website also complements other through OPAL’s grant of £11.7m from the alised photo albums with like-minded peo- more specialised sites, because users can Big Lottery Fund. The website is also sup- ple. take their interest further having developed a ported by a number of experts who wish to Jonathan Silvertown, the OU’s Pro- community of users with similar interests. introduce beginner naturalists to a suppor- fessor of Ecology, who is leading the project, Members of CBWPS will be able to encour- tive community of experts and other enthu- said: “Have you ever seen a bird, an insect or age other users to take a more active interest siasts. The Biodiversity Observatory will a plant that you didn’t know the name of and in birds in their area and can publicise ac- next year be encouraging the public to get wished you had someone there to tell you tivities that might be of interest. This will all involved with the data collection for the what it is? Or you know the name but you be supported by a team of regionally based Open Air Laboratories National Biodiversity want to share the excitement of discovery biodiversity mentors who will work with Survey. There will also be links to other with someone? Well, that is what iSpot is all local groups to widen the appeal of nature to surveys across England. about. It’s a place where you can get help people who hadn’t previously considered it For any extra information have a putting a name to wildlife you have seen and as a hobby. CBWPS will be hosting one look at www.ispot.org.uk or the OPAL web- share your observations with others. Take a such event in the spring so keep a look out site at http://www.opalexplorenature.org/ picture with your camera or mobile and up- for it in the calendar. by Trudy Russell

Your subscriptions remain Winter Tamar bird cruises There are still three of these popular bird- the same in 2010 as 2009 watching cruises to run this winter. With an Your subscription to CBWPS stays the same expert commentary from Bruce Taggart, the for yet another year. Details are on page 2. If cruises are a great way to see the rich you haven’t yet signed up to pay by Gift Aid birdlife of the Tamar and Lynher estuaries. please do - it adds £££ to the Society’s cof- Remaining dates are: Saturday 30th January fers. Please also consider making provision (11.15 am); Sunday 14th February (11.45 for Cornwall’s birds in your will. Even small am); Sunday 28th February (11.00 am). For bequests will be hugely appreciated. tickets call Bruce Taggart on 01752 829163 (email: [email protected]) - or - Photographic competition Redshank and Spotted Redshank Tamar Cruising on 01752 822105. by Colin Selway - Cornwall’s got talent! Tell us what you’d like CONTENTS Treasurer’s from the Society’s AGM update - p 2 One of the occasions for members to communicate with the committee is the Chairman’s AGM which in recent years has been Chat - p 3 combined with a visit to a reserve and a topical talk. But our AGM is in May and Bird Report: usually on a Saturday when many birders Autumn would prefer to be out in the field. Black Redstart by Andy - p 3 and 4 The main options are i) a talk and Shirley Park preceded by a short AGM or ii) a full day (above) and Peregrine stooping Reserve news Conference with the AGM slotted in the - p 6, 7, 8 middle for members only or iii) an eve- by Jim Tarbox (below)

ning meeting with a speaker. It would also An excellent crop of photographs by mem- be possible to hold open days at reserves Cirl Buntings bers of CBWPS was submitted for the 2009 in addition to the one combining the - p 12 and 13 photographic competition - including this AGM. Yellow-browed Warbler by Steve Rogers. Feedback from members as to Field meet- For a display of more of the best see this their preference would help the decision- ings: Winter page and pages 9, 10, and 11. Many thanks making process. Comments to the Hon - p 14 and 15 to all those who entered the competition. Secretary, Tony Bertenshaw please.

Committee and Officers Treasurer’s Update hanks to all who responded to the appeal made in the autumn issue. I am sorry President: Steve Madge Seawinds, Lower Trerive, Downderry, , that the Standing Order was not as straightforward as it should have been. T PL11 3LZ (01503 250432) However, your comments have been noted and a more user-friendly version can be found on the CBWPS Website. th Chairman: Derek Julian As of the 18 December 2009, the Society holds cash assets totalling £80,595: 12, Dunveth Road, , Investment Account £60,800 PL27 7XD. (01208 816779) Current Account £19,750 [email protected] Cash Account £45 This balance reduces to £38,835 once the following projected liabilities are taken Vice Chairman: Bruce Taggart into account: Primrose Bank, Radford Lane, Millbrook, PL10 1AH Maer Lake Appeal £23,368 (01752 829163) [email protected] Printing and distribution costs Birds in Cornwall (05, 07, 08 & 09) £18,392 Honorary Secretary: Tony Bertenshaw A detailed Statement of Income and Expenditure will be on the CBWPS website in Hantergantick, St. Breward, PL30 4NH early January. This will be updated subsequently to accord with future Palores (01208 850419) [email protected] publication dates. A copy of the Audit Report will be available in time for the AGM. A copy of the Society’s Financial Guidelines approved by the Committee in Hon Treasurer: Tony Jones November can also be found on the website. “Lansdowne”, Southdown Road, Millbrook Some particularly good news is that the Society has received £7,500 from Torpoint PL10 1EJ (01752 822694) the Environment Agency as part payment of compensation for work undertaken at [email protected] Maer. This will enable us to meet routine costs for conservation work at the Re- serve for several years to come. A similar cushion will also be provided for Membership Secretary: Angela Tonry Walmsley negotiations with Natural England for Higher Level Stewardship are as 20 The Copse, Boscoppa, PL25 3EU successful as we all hope. By Tony Jones (Treasurer) [email protected]

County Recorder: Darrell Clegg The Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society 55 Lower Fore Street, , PL12 6JQ (01752 844775) [email protected]

Editor, Birds in Cornwall: Derek Julian 12, Dunveth Road, Wadebridge, PL27 7XD. (01208 816779) [email protected]

Website administrator: Nigel Climpson [email protected]

Registered Charity No 255899 Editor, Palores: Simon Marquis St Breock Place, Wadebridge, PL27 7JS The CBWPS was founded in 1931 to encourage the study and preservation of (07711 883876) [email protected] birds in Cornwall. The Society has over 750 members. It owns 3 reserves and manages jointly several others. The Society organises weekly bird watching Field Meetings Officer: Gordon Mills field trips (some jointly with the RSPB local members group). Palores (its colour newsletter for members) is published quarterly. Every year the Society Conservation Officer: Tony Blunden also publishes its authoritative annual record - Birds in Cornwall - sent to all [email protected] members. Committee members: 2010 Subscriptions: Adult £14 Rosemary Parslow, Colin Selway Family £18 Kester Wilson Senior Citizen £11 Senior Family £13 Life member £200 Reserve Wardens: [email protected] Adrian Langdon Subscriptions for 2010 are due by 1st January 2010 . [email protected] Graham Sutton [email protected] Andy Pay Gift Aid saves the Society £1,500 a year. Please pay - if you can - by Gift Aid. [email protected] Dave Conway [email protected] Dave Parker

[email protected] Simon Taylor Membership: to join CBWPS, please write to: Angela Tonry, Membership

Secretary CBWPS, 20 The Copse, Boscoppa, St Austell PL25 3EU or email: [email protected] Honorary Solicitor: Greg Adams 2 Wendron Street, TR13 8PS

Palores is published four times a year - January, April, July and October. Advertising rates: Full colour page £100, Half page £50. Independent Examiner: Mrs J E Cox FCA Small ads and notices are free to members: contact the Editor. Whitakers (Chartered Accountants) Design and typesetting by the Editor. Bryndon House, 5 Berry Road, TR7 1AD Printed by R. Booth Ltd, The Praze, Commercial Road, Penryn, TR10 8AA (01637-873838) Distribution by Envelope Supplies, Holsworthy, Devon.

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tribute, and we also need a few more section writers for Birds in Chairman’s Chat Cornwall. A couple of new projects have been started in the last two ince the last newsletter the committee and all months. These are: a formal nest box scheme at Crowdy Reservoir, S the wardens met to thrash out a vision for the and the digitising of all the society’s bird reports. The latter project, future. In this very positive meeting a number of by Nigel Climpson, will take up to 12 months to complete and will areas were addressed and a new Development be hopefully finished in time for our 80th birthday in 2011. If any- Plan has been drawn up and will be available to one has any old reports that they no longer require please let either be viewed by members at the next AGM. Nigel or myself know. Around the reserves, all the wardens It is with great sadness that I have to report the passing of a Derek Julian have been busy doing required maintenance. At long standing member, Dick Treleaven, who is well known for his Walmsley, we are currently looking at a Grant work on Peregrines along the North Cornwall coast. Our condo- Scheme but I have no information at the moment. At Stithians, the lences go to his family at this sad time. dedication of the hide to Stuart Hutchings went well and I would Unfortunately I have missed the deadline for the printers like to thank Simon Taylor for all his hard work (see p 8). for the promised Birds in Cornwall and I apologise for this. Hope- The position of Field Meetings Officer has now been filled fully at least one (if not two) of the outstanding reports will be at by Gordon Mills who will be co-ordinating all the meetings the printers whilst you are reading this, and will be sent out as soon throughout the county for us and the local RSPB group. as possible. To save money - it costs over £1.50 for each issue Stephen Jackson has also agreed to be a member of the mailed - it would be good if members could hand deliver copies in committee, in his capacity as BTO rep in Cornwall. There is still their local area. Anyone who can help please contact me - details room on the committee for anyone who feels that they could con- on the page opposite.

Peggy Visick (1916-2009) bird report sept-nov 2009

th eggy Visick, nee Worth, who died on 5 September 2009 By Darrell Clegg P aged 93, was born and raised in and spent her married life in the parish of Perran-ar-worthal. She proudly thought of NB These are all unchecked and unauthenticated records. Publication here herself as a Truronian, was Cornish to her core and always made does not constitute acceptance. If you were lucky enough to see or find any her children sing ‘Trelawney’, whenever they ventured across the of these birds please submit a description to the county recorder. re- border into the foreign land that is Devon. [email protected] National rarity description forms can be Peggy was a woman of many talents and interests, from downloaded from www.bbrc.org.uk

dinghy sailor to horsewoman, and was one of the old school with Pacific Diver: The returning adult was seen in its usual haunt in Mount’s a keen sense of duty, though she wore this very lightly. She gave Bay on 2nd November with the associated long range views. Amazingly it unstintingly to the organisations she joined – bird-watching, mu- was relocated at Carnsew Basin on 19th November where it remained to the sic, civic trust, garden heritage for example – an utterly depend- end of the month commuting between the pool and Carbis Bay. able and long-serving committee member, always ready to help Fea’s Petrel: The third record for 2009 concerned a bird past Porthgwarra out and muck in when needed. on 2nd September Madeiran Petrel: One bird was seen by a few lucky seawatchers at Peggy was also a traveller and visited foreign lands when rd this was something of a novelty. The most notable of her trips was Pendeen in the early evening of 3 September. Leach’s Storm Petrel: Very few early autumn records involved singles at in 1972 when she survived the world’s first commercial airline Pendeen and Newquay on 1st and 3rd September. The late autumn gales hijack when returning from Ethiopia, involving a mid-air gun produced singles past St Ives, Sennen Cove, Newquay, Pendeen and Ger- battle between security guards and Eritrean guerrillas. (The photo, ran’s Bay between 22nd and 30th November. The only multiple record was right, was taken at Truro Station on her return). three birds past Penlee Point, Rame on 25th November. She became a member of the Cornwall Bird Watching and Swinhoe’s Storm Petrel: Continuing an excellent year for rare seabirds, a Preservation Society in 1948 and stayed a member until her death. dark-rumped Storm Petrel, presumably of this species was a real surprise to th She was elected to the hardy birders at St Ives on 30 November. committee in 1953 Masked Booby: If accepted this will surely be a contender for bird of the year; a probable immature flew south past on 23rd November. and to the chair in Purple Heron: An immature bird came in off the sea and flew up the 1972, remaining as valley at Porthgwarra on 16th September. such until 1986, see- Great Egret: Two were seen flying over on 13th October, and ing great changes in one was observed at St Buryan and later at Drift Reservoir on 14th October. the society and the Cattle Egret: One was seen at on 14th and 26th October, whilst in the bird-watching world east of the county one was found at Kingsmill Lake on 4th November. This at large. I remember bird unfortunately sustained a broken wing, most likely after flying into her as a quietly effi- power lines. It remained in the area but grew visibly weaker and presuma- bly succumbed. cient chairman, polite, Glossy Ibis: One flew over Kynance Cove on 26th September, and what respecting everyone’s was probably the same bird was reported from Marazion the next day. view and dedicated to Spoonbill: At Marazion an immature was present from 10th October – 5th the birds of Cornwall. November. Four birds were present at Hayle on 13th October, being joined Hers is a record of by a fifth the next day, and a sixth on 15th October. A juvenile remained th th service to the until 5 November. On the Camel six birds were found on 10 October, and at least two remained until the end of November. On the Lynher Estu- CBWPS that is un- th equalled. She will be ary four birds returned to spend the winter on 11 October. A fifth bird had joined the group by 15th November and these remained until the end of the remembered with month. Four birds were seen on the Cowloe at Sennen Cove on 13th Octo- respect and affection ber and a juvenile flew over Porthgwarra on the same day. It is disturbing by all who knew her. to report that one of the birds on the Camel Estuary seems to have died as a By Roy Phillips result of a gunshot wound. Unfortunately the bird was not killed outright

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Bird Report contd but suffered for days with horrific injuries. Attempts to catch the bird were Shrike sp.: An intriguing Shrike was found near Kynance Cove by in vain as it could still fly short distances. CBWPS Conservation Officer Tony Blunden on 26th September. The bird American Wigeon: A possible female was at Hayle from 14th – 17th Octo- was still present the next day but always remained distant and elusive. ber and a hybrid American Wigeon x Eurasian Wigeon was at Stithians on Photographs of the bird are inconclusive but appear to favour Brown 15th October Shrike. This would be a first for Cornwall and only the fifth record for American Black Duck: The longest staying and certainly the most enig- Britain. matic rarity in Cornwall. No sooner had I written in the last issue about his Woodchat Shrike: A long staying bird at Nanquidno from 18th September- whereabouts away from Colliford Lake than he turns up at Walmsley Sanc- 8th October was the only record of the autumn. tuary for an away day on 16th September. True to form he has gone missing Booted/Sykes’s Warbler: A “Booted-type” Warbler was seen at Nan- again! quidno on 13th-14th October. The bird was typically elusive but did appar- Black Kite: Up to five birds were recorded. One was seen around Mara- ently show characteristics consistent with Sykes’s Warbler. zion and Crowlas from 9th – 12th September. Another was seen at Polgigga Melodious Warbler: Three birds were recorded during the period. The on 10th September, and on the 11th a bird drifted over St Just. What may first was a bird trapped and ringed at Land’s End on 6th September. An- have been the Marazion bird was seen at Helston on 13th September and other, longer staying bird was also present at Land’s End from 24th – 29th the final sighting of the period was of a bird at Drift Reservoir on 19th September. Elsewhere one was seen at Porthgwarra from 13th – 16th Sep- September. tember. Spotted Crake: Birds found at Marazion or Walmsley are always exciting, Icterine Warbler: This is always much scarcer in Cornwall than the previ- if sometimes expected during the autumn. Imagine then finding a very late ous species and 2009 was no exception, with only one record of a bird in a bird away from their usual reed bed home. This happened on successive private garden at St Ives on 8th September. days involving two birds at different sites. The first was a bird found on the Radde’s Warbler: Two records of this enigmatic little phyllosc. were main track at Nanquidno on 30th October, and the next day a bird was recorded this autumn. The first was a typically elusive individual at Land’s flushed from a field at St Levan. End on 15th October. The second was a much more obliging bird which American Golden Plover: An adult was present amongst up to2, 000 delighted many at St Levan from 26th October to 3rd November. Golden Plover at Dozmary Pool from 2nd -6th November. Greenish Warbler: This species is surprisingly rare in Cornwall and any Baird’s Sandpiper: Very well watched individuals were found at Mara- occurrence is likely to attract a crowd. A bird at Church Cove from 28th zion Beach and Davidstow Airfield on 3rd September. The former remained October to 2nd November seemed to show some features of the much rarer until 23rd September and the latter departed a day later on 24th. A third bird Green Warbler but some excellent photographs, and crucially, a voice was reported at Trewey Common on 22nd October. recording were able to eliminate that possibility. Pectoral Sandpiper: In a fairly poor year for this species the bird from Barred Warbler: Just one this autumn – at Polgigga on 21st September. August remained at Maer Lake until 1st September, and two juveniles were Red-breasted Flycatcher: A very poor year for this species with only one found on the Amble Marshes on 11th October. record of a bird at Church Cove Lizard on 19th September. Buff-breasted Sandpiper: All records of this lovely wader were restricted Taiga Flycatcher: Another potential first for Cornwall which unfortu- to the extreme west of the county this year. Two were seen at Polgigga on nately didn’t wait around to be observed by the masses. A flycatcher show- 9th September with one remaining until the next day. A juvenile was found ing features consistent with this recently split species was photographed at in Kelynack Valley on 11th September and another at Nanjizal on 21st Tregeseal on 6th November. September. The final bird of the year was one at Trevorian, Sennen from Ortolan Bunting: A typical showing for this scarce visitor with five birds 24th – 30th September. reported, including a welcome record from the east of the county. The first Long-tailed Skua: The only report was of a late bird at Pendeen on 1st was found at Lizard Point on 14th September, and it remained in the area November. until 19th September when it was joined by a second bird. A brief sighting Ring-billed Gull: the second winter bird first seen in August remained at of a bird at Marazion on 18th September was followed by and equally brief Helston Loe Pool until 30th October, and the elusive adult bird from St bird at Treen on 20th September. On the same day a bird was found at John’s Lake was seen at nearby Millbrook on 16th and 17th September. The where it stayed until 22nd leading local birders a merry dance only “new” bird was an adult at Sennen Cove on 1st October. with its frustratingly brief appearances. Short-toed Lark: A very lucky visiting birder found this bird on the grass Serin: Two late October birds were the only sightings this autumn. One opposite Marazion car park on 24th October. flew over Land’s End on 26th and another flew over Garras, Lizard Point Richard’s Pipit: An incredible count of up to 32 birds was reported this on 28th October. autumn, and with the exception of four records, all were in the far West of Rosy Starling: The August bird at Trewellard remained until 13th Septem- the county. ber. One lucky birder had his own private rarity when a bird visited his Cape Cornwall: One, 11th October. Helston Loe Pool: One, 25th September. garden in Torpoint daily from around 8th -19th September. A juvenile was Kynance Cove: One, 28th September. Land’s End: By far the most regular found at Treen on 21st September where it remained until 30th. At Land’s site. One, 18th September; one, 26th September; one 15th October; three, End one was seen on 22nd September, and again on 13th October. St Ives 17th October; one 27th October; one, 9th November; two, 20th November. Island proved that it is attractive to more than seabirds when a juvenile Lizard Point: One, 15th September. Nanjizal: Two, 12th October. Nan- graced the area from 20th-27th October. The final bird of the period graced quidno: One, 22nd October. Porthgwarra: One, 17th September; one, 26th another garden at Connor Downs on 9th November. September; one, 18th October, one, 20th October, one, 25th October; one, 8th November. Reskajeage Downs: One, 13th October. Sancreed: One, 31st October. Sennen: One, 8th October; one, 14th October; two, 20th October. St Just: Two, St Just, 21st October. St Levan: One, 18th October. Blyth’s Pipit: A probable was reported from Land’s End on 20th Novem- ber. Tawny Pipit: Always recorded in fewer numbers than Richard’s Pipit, 2009 appeared to be a good year for this species when compared to recent seasons. The first record was of a bird at Trevorian, Sennen from 13th-20th September. Elsewhere in Sennen, one was seen flying over Trevilley Farm on 18th September and another by the Lifeboat Station on 19th September. Nearby at Land’s End one was seen on 13th September and two were pre- sent briefly on 21st September. The final report was of a bird flying over Nanjizal on 21st September. Olive-backed Pipit: One was seen and photographed at close range at St Levan on 29th October. Red-throated Pipit: Two records were received, both of fly-over birds. The first was at Land’s end Aerodrome on 14th October, and the second was at Kenidjack on 28th October. Yellow Wagtail sp.: A possible Black-headed Wagtail was seen at Sennen on 15th September along with 40 White Wagtails, and a probable Grey- headed Wagtail was seen on the beach at Marazion on 18th September. Dunlin at Marazion by Adrian Langdon 4

Gyr Falcon Derek Julian charts the relatively few appear- ances of this spectacular pale falcon, the world’s largest, in Cornwall...

The Gyr Falcon (Falco rusticolus) breeds from Northern Fenno- scandia, east through Asia, North America, Greenland and Iceland. It was thought until recently that at least two distinct subspecies of this magnificent bird existed with white birds coming from Greenland and grey birds from the rest of the population. This has now been proved incorrect. All the birds documented from Corn- wall have been white morph birds. This, the largest of the world’s falcons, has graced the British Isles on no fewer than 379 times up to the end of 2008. In Cornwall a total of 16 birds have been noted. The first for Cornwall was an adult, white morph, female shot at Gwavas Farm, Grade in 1830. Four other birds met with the same fate between 1834 and 1913. These are:

Port Eliot – adult male, white morph, 7th February 1834. The Lizard – adult white morph, 24th March 1884. The 2007 bird at near by Colin Selway Mousehole – adult white morph, March 1903. St Tudy – one, shot in 1913. In 2002 a juvenile/first winter was noted in the Trethewey/Land’s A “white bird” at Zennor on May 4th 1947 seems to be the first to End area on 4th-5th December. Interestingly, in 2006 a “white have escaped the gun and was followed by a white morph, female hybrid” falcon was noted at a number of locations between Por- at Hayle Estuary on 16th April 1954. In 1961 an almost pure white treath and Land’s End. bird allowed its observer to approach to 30 yards at Port Quin on In 2007, one took up residence in the mouth of the Camel 5th March. Estuary. It was present from at least 16th January to 21st March, St Micheals Mount was the dramatic setting for a pale although it was rumoured to have been in the area from at least immature which was first seen on Tresco, Isles of Scilly. It arrived mid-December 2006. The bird was noted as far inland as Win- on the Mount on 15th January 1965 and hunted here and over nard’s Perch on at least two occasions. Marazion Marsh until it left on 2nd February. A white morph bird that took up residence on the Isles of In 1972, a white morph passed Trevone on 26th March 26th Scilly in December 2008 was rumoured to have been seen on the on its way to the Isles of Scilly after spending two weeks in North Cornish mainland before the end of that year but records were not Devon, including Lundy Island. submitted. It did arrive along the North Cornwall coast during Penlee Point, Rame Head played host to this species on March and April 2009, being noted at Porthcothan and Newquay. 16th October 1986. Ten years elapsed before the next bird was Although these records have not yet been accepted, a photograph noted at Treveal on 2nd April 1996. was taken of the Newquay bird. This bird will become the 17th An adult spent two days on The Mew Stone off Wembury individual to have graced the Duchy. Point, Devon 6th-8th April 1998 but unsurprisingly also put in appearances at Rame Head on the 6th and again on the 9th. This century, the first was a juvenile/first winter bird which was first seen at Goonhilly Downs on 3rd March, before Distribution of Gyr Falcon moving to Cape Cornwall on the 5th and residing there until 23rd. sightings in Cornwall

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reserves report

October-December 2009

he torrential autumn rains This is often accentuated when a Peregrine decides to target one of Walmsley T have totally changed the their kind and splits the flock apart in a series of mid-air sorties. vista from the tower hide in the Another pleasant sight has been that of 5-6 Spoonbills By Adrian Langdon sanctuary such that we now look feeding on the estuary and roosting at high tides in at Walmsley. It out on a huge lake with every dip has been great to watch these birds feeding in a line along the Am- and hollow of the marshes filled with water. The flocks of wild- ble stream from the Burniere hide. At one time from that hide I fowl are beginning to arrive and if we get some hard weather then was with a group of birders from U3A group and we I expect numbers to increase rapidly. were watching the usual Kingfisher on the rocks by the tidal dam Beside the wildfowl we are still maintaining a sizeable when one of the group spotted an otter in the stream. We were population of up to 80 Black Tailed Godwit. It seems that many of thrilled to watch this animal in good sunlight fishing in front of the the Greenshank that were around in early autumn have moved on hide for almost half an hour. Eventually it swam up through the south and have been replaced by several hundred Snipe, many tidal flap of the dam despite a torrent of flood water coming hundreds of Lapwing and indeed thousands of Golden Plover. through the flap. As so often happens when we spend time in the These birds have been moving between the reserve and the Camel countryside it is the unexpected that can provide the long-lasting estuary and can be seen on the Dinham flats and fields displaying memories. Golden Plover, Spoonbill, their incredible flight patterns in changing light conditions. Teal and Otter - photographed by Adrian Langdon at Walmsley

ur arable crops contin- Windmill Farm O ued to shelter a few migrating Sedge Warblers By Andy Pay and Whitethroats well into September. Linnet numbers in these fields built up to a high of 150 on 18th. The same day there were eight Chiffchaffs on the reserve, followed by a Redstart on 19th and Whinchat on 20th. Meadow Pipits peaked at 70 on 26th. On 29th we had our best bird of the autumn, a Glossy Ibis. Al- though it was seen flying away that evening, it popped back for a few minutes the next day. It had a white Darvic ring on its left leg,

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but we were unable to read it. This wasn’t our first record of this am very pleased to report that species as five birds paid a brief visit in April 2007. Maer Lake I following the site meeting held on On 3rd October three Merlins were seen. Four Reed Bun- the 2nd of October, which I men- tings were in the quinoa on 4th. The 10th brought records of Dart- By Graham Sutton tioned in the autumn issue of Pa- ford Warbler and Water Rail. Another Merlin was seen on 18th lores, we have now made real pro- and a Short-eared Owl was found the same day. The end of the gress in re-establishing our working relationship with the Environ- month brought Black Redstart, Brambling, 20 Redwing and 1500 ment Agency. Golden Plover. As usual, Chaffinch continued to increase through Work started on clearing the ditches and stream the follow- November, with an estimated 250 by the month’s end. ing week, and the work team were very helpful and did an ex- We found the first frog-spawn on Dec 6th (!) and it was tremely good and efficient job. The stream running from the Re- abundant by the middle serve to Ocean View Road is particularly difficult to deal with, as of the month. Wild- you are unable to access either bank with machinery. The E.A. fowl have been late dealt with this problem by winching a plough through from both arriving this year, but ends, which proved to be very effective. the pre-Christmas cold Our own contractor also kindly came at very short notice snap has brought in a to clear the main ditch down through the two sluices to our bound- few Mallard, Shoveler ary with the stream. This did cause a terrific flow of water out of and Wigeon, along the Reserve down to the sea at Crooklets Beach, an event that we with good numbers of have not seen for well over a year. I was then able to re-set the Fieldfares and Red- sluices, and overnight within twelve hours water levels were back wings. to the ideal for the Reserve. We also had to wait until October this year before topping the Flag Iris in the main field, the latest cutting date ever. The et another disappointing autumn Reserve was so wet after the summer, that we were very grateful Drift Y with the water flowing over the dam for the long spell of fine autumn weather and the opportunity that just like in the winter! With no exposed this then provided to catch up with the work. It is essential that the By Dave Parker margins, passage waders have been thin Flag Iris is topped annually otherwise it does tend to spread alarm- on the ground with the occasional Com- ingly and ruins the grazing. mon and Green Sandpipers and a single Curlew and Redshank. The cattle have done an excellent grazing job for us this Mute Swan numbers fluctuated between 29 and 39 and year but as the grazing got scarcer they decided the growth on the were joined by two Whooper Swans, one from 10th – 25th October new flood bank looked very tempting indeed, and actually jumped and a different individual from 11th – 23rd November. A lone Can- over the new fence! I then had many phone calls from neighbours ada Goose with a damaged wing (shot?) remained throughout the worried that the cattle were going to get into their gardens, the period and was joined by the Canada Geese that had summered on cattle did look intimidating standing on the flood bank, especially the Hayle Estuary from 17th November. The strange hybrid goose as the flood bank is actually at a higher level than the gardens. superficially resembling a Snow Goose (see discussion as to its Coming from a farming background, I am more than happy to parentage on the CBWPS Yahoo Forum), returned with them. round them up and move them out (older members will remember Mallard peaked at 42 and included four young on 29th Rawhide), but I was grateful when the E.A. put up another strand September. Up to three pairs of Little Grebes were present and at of barbed wire on the fence to cure the problem, and stop my least two young survived. A single Great-crested Grebe remained phone ringing. until 17th October. No more than five Cormorants were recorded Golden Plover are one of my favourite birds, and I always throughout the period and Tufted Ducks reappeared from 29th look forward to their arrival in October. They tend to circle and September and peaked at 56. Teal returned on 17th October and coast around Maer for a few days before actually coming in to peaked at 80. The only other ducks recorded were two Pintail a land, as if they are reconnoitring the Reserve to see if it is safe and Wigeon and a juvenile Scaup. At least 4 different Mediterranean suitable for them. It would be fascinating to understand the com- Gulls were seen and a Yellow-legged Gull was reported on 19th munications that go on within the flock, especially when separate October. flocks join up together. Peregrine, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Buzzard were re- I have been very surprised at how fond the general public corded throughout the period and a Black Kite was reported on are of Canada Geese. The spectacle of hundreds of birds flying 17th September but no description has been submitted as yet. There between Maer and Marshes over the Golf Course and along was also a totally unconfirmed report of a Great Egret on 11th Oc- the coast line is very much appreciated in Bude, and people are tober. always stopping me and commenting favourably about them. I There was an impressive movement of hirundines on 11th often wonder just how many Canada Geese we will be seeing in September with at least 1500 Swallows and 200 House Martins, the next few years, they are such a successful breeding bird with with 1000 Swallows remaining the next day. A Red-rumped Swal- few predators. low was reported by a fisherman on 9th September and may have A single Whooper Swan flew around the Reserve on the been a forerunner to this movement. The only other evidence of 30th November, and hopefully in the next few weeks we may see migration was a Whinchat and a Wheatear on 10th and 12th Sep- the increasingly tember respectively. scarce Gadwall As always the main management task has been keeping the and Pintail at footpath clear, especially with reduced numbers of visitors due to Maer, but then the high water level, and keeping on top of the vegetation in front the excitement of the hide. Work is now ongoing removing the willow scrub by of bird watch- hand in front of the reed-bed ready for next year’s breeding birds. ing is in the fact Worryingly, with three years of full water levels, erosion is be- that we simply coming a problem undermining the footpath in places. South West do not know Water will have to confront this problem sooner rather than later, what 2010 may otherwise access to the north end of the reservoir will be lost. bring.

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ith high water levels right I’m sure this is the beginning of a long friendship with Cait Stithians W through the Summer and Au- and on behalf of myself and Cait I would to thank those that turned tumn, wader passage just didn’t happen. up on the day and in particular Steve Rogers, Daniel Eva, John By Simon Taylor With three weeks of heavy rain in No- Rowe and Matt Sallis who are the driving forces behind me. vember/December, as I pen this my gut Thanks also to Matt for the photos of the ceremony. feeling is that Winter will also be a washout. The reservoir is al- ready full giving the Common Teal, Eurasian Wigeon and any stray Great Bitterns a chance to hide in the back without being seen for weeks. The notable sightings for the period were 2 Black Redstarts at the Dam on 1st November which were to be found at the farm buildings just off the Golden Lion causeway a week later. 14th November saw a Little Gull turn up, which stayed on and off for around a week. The day after, Steve Rogers turned up an American/Eurasian Wigeon hybrid, a bird which I failed to connect with. Other birds of interest included a female Northern Shoveller that was present for a few days in mid October and also Common Goldeneye, Gadwall and Goosander. Common Gold- eneye have fluctuated between 1 and five consisting of two drakes and three females, with the odd report of Gadwall, the first coming on 10th November and a splendid drake Goosander was present for a single day on the 9th December. A pair of Common Pochard have also turned up. Common Gull have numbered up to 8 with ad’s and 1w’s being the most numerous. Numbers of visible Wigeon and Teal have not yet Simon Taylor presents Cait Hutchings with a replica plaque reached the 100 mark and Lapwing having just reached the 100 mark found themselves forced off the reserve by the water levels. Numbers of Fieldfare and Redwing have arrived and can be seen feeding in the surrounding fields with migratory Starlings and Blackbirds. 19th December was a good day for Daniel Eva after finding Pintail, Shoveller and Gadwall on the reservoir. Disap- pointing news comes on the Med Gull front – reports are well down on last year with only half a dozen sightings to date, all of an adult presumably the same bird. For the latest news see www.cbwpsstithiansreserve.blogspot.com/ Cait Hutchings unveils the new notice

Dedication of the Stithians Hide to Stuart Hutchings

fter a few cancellations due to poor weather, unavailability of A people etc, the 12th December was finally set as the date to re-name the Main Hide “The Stuart Hutchings” hide. The day was blessed with sunshine, a good turnout of birders and friends of Stuart. All very welcome after 3 weeks of rain. The late Stuart Hutchings was a well respected birder and former warden of Stithians and CBWPS Chairman. The day started with Steve Rogers paying his tribute to Stuart saying how much of his life had been dedicated to Stithians. The Main Hide was built by Stuart in his back garden and trans- ported to and erected in its current location. Shortly afterwards Stuart’s wife Cait unveiled two plaques – a memorial plaque and the hide name plaque. Cait was also pre- sented with a replica of the memorial plaque which I’m sure has Attendees at the re-naming ceremony on 12th December been placed somewhere special. Tea and pasties were the order of the day after Cait’s speech and it was during lunch that people realised that Stuart was birding Stithians during an era that will probably never be re- peated. Cait had brought some of Stuarts old notebooks from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s and a page from one of his many visits to Stithians is shown below. Stuart also had his moment of fame when he was part of a group who found a British first in the name of a Chimney Swift and Stuart’s notes from that historical day are also shown at the bottom right of the page. What chance is there now of recording Ruff, Smew, Black Throated Diver, Slav Grebe, Ruddy Duck, Goosander, Dunlin, 700 Wigeon, Pintail, Gadwall, 200 Teal and thousands of winter Thrushes in one location on the same day. I was gobsmacked read- ing some of the notes outlining the reserves’ history. I cannot be- gin to imagine the excitement and adrenaline rush these guys must have experienced on that day at Porthgwarra when they realised Stuart Hutchings’ notebooks from1982 what they were looking at. 8

A picture is worth 1000 words

The CBWPS 2009 Photographic Competition - Results

Many thanks to all those photographers who entered the judges Derek Julian, chairman of CBWPS and Simon Mar- competition. The quality and quantity of responses show just quis, editor of Palores. how much photography and bird watching can go hand in On this page is a selection of some of the great shots hand. Cornwall seems to be particularly blessed with photo- submitted by members. On the next is the best of the bunch graphic talent and enthusiasm as the following pages show. and the overall winner who receives a bottle of champagne. The competition was really an excuse to showcase We hope you enjoy the pictures and that they encour- the work of CBWPS members, but some pictures stood out age more of our members to take up this challenging and for their excellence and several particularly caught the eye of satisfying extension to their bird-watching interest.

Jenny Goodman: Long-tailed Tit Richard Salter: Little Egret

Tony Jones: Peregrine

Ashley Hugo: Dunlin David Braund: Kestrel

Andy & Shirley Park: Sparrowhawk

Sam Williams: Sky Lark Terry Smith: Fulmar

Steve Rogers: Manx Shearwater Keith Mortimore: Robin Bob Sharples: Grey Heron 9 The CBWPS 2009 Photographic Competition - Results

Adrian Davey: Water Rail at Swanpool on 23rd February taken Stephen Portlock: Reed Warbler at Chapel Amble in June taken with a Canon 20d + Sigma 500mm lens with a Nikon D200 + Sigma 150-500mm

Anthony Miners: Peregrine, near Hor Point, St Ives on 19.8.09 Nigel Climpson: Sandwich Tern at Spit Beach Par in August taken with a Nikon D80 and Sigma 150- 500 lens taken with a Canon 50d with a 100-400mm Canon IS lens

Bob Sharples: Swallow 12/09/2009 taken with a Canon 1D MK3 with 600mm lens

hese shots include fine portraits of Peregrine and the T elusive Water Rail. The cheeky juvenile captured by Delia Trathen was the best of several Robins, while the Sandwich Tern and Reed Warbler pictures are great evoca- Delia Trathen: Robin in the Cot Valley in August taken with a tions of time and place. Bob Sharples’ Swallow is a won- Canon 50D + Tamron 18-270 IS lens derful moment of frozen action. It was impossible to choose between Steve Rogers’ right too. Many congratulations and bottles of champagne to glorious Goldfinches and Adrian Davey’s lichen-framed Steve and Adrian and thanks to everyone who entered - Nuthatch. What makes them stand out? Well, great shots of whether or not your pictures have featured on these pages. the birds obviously but beautiful compositions in their own 10 The CBWPS 2009 Photographic Competition - Winners

Steve Rogers: Goldfinches, taken at Portscatho in November

11 Adrian Davey: Nuthatch at South Petherwin on 10th January, taken with a Canon 20d, 500 mm Sigma lens)

and an abundant supply of weed seeds are important if the birds are to survive the winter. As Cirls are usually sedentary, all these Back from the conditions are necessary within a local area. Where they occur the population can be quite dense. For example, in 2007 there were 23 pairs on 66ha of mixed Devon farmland managed under Country- side Stewardship. brink... There is little information from the early 20th century al- though on a national scale the population probably began to de- cline from the 1930’s [Evans 1997]. Causes have been linked to changing farming practices such as the switch from spring to au- tumn sown cereals resulting in the loss of overwintering stubbles, the intensification of livestock farming resulting in a loss of inver- tebrates and the removal of hedgerows. In Cornwall the decline probably began a bit later. In 1943, T. J. Willcocks reported in the Cornwall Bird Report [CBR] that Cirl Buntings were ‘fairly plenti- ful around Wadebridge’ and there was no mention of a decline in the 1950’s. Perhaps the intensification of agriculture in Cornwall was less marked than in other parts of the country. In the 1960’s the national population collapsed but in Cornwall it was still frequent in certain areas. The BTO Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland 1968 - 1972 located 20-30 pairs in 26 10km squares, over half of which were towards the south coast. There was confirmed breeding in 7 squares, probable breeding in 18 and possible breeding in 1 square. Table 1 summa- rises CBR data for the 1960’s.

Table 1: The Location of Cirl Buntings in Cornwall in the 1960s

1961 15 pairs. 10 singing males between Newquay and Crantock

1962 13 pairs. 1963 19 singing males between Polzeath/ Trebetherick/Brea Hill In a detailed two part history, Bruce Taggart April-June 2009 1964 No data available describes the fortunes of the Cirl Bunting in Cornwall. Part 1: the 19th and 20th centuries 1965 22 pairs 1966 17 pairs his article examines the decline of the Cirl Bunting in Corn- T wall and, in the next issue, will report on the success of the re- 1967 15 pairs introduction project in the county as part of the RSPB recovery 1968 c28 pairs (probably an optimistic assessment) programme. The Cirl Bunting was formerly widespread across much of 1969 Pairs or singing males from 12 sites southern England and Wales but declined in the second half of the 20th century and is now one Britain’s rarest farmland birds. It is on Numbers continued to decline through the 1970’s. CBR the Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern in the UK having listed 13 pairs in 1970, only 3 pairs in 1973 but recorded birds suffered a range contraction of over 50% and is one of the 25 bird from 15 breeding areas in 1975, 10 sites in 1977, and 6 in 1979. species identified by the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The data for the 20 years from 1980-1999 is more com- First discovered by George Montagu at Kingsbridge in prehensive. Isolated records notably from the Lizard and Trevose Devon in the winter of 1800, the early status of Cirl Buntings is Head indicate that contrary to general opinion occasional passage poorly documented. In Cornwall it was said to be ‘not uncom- birds pass through the county in April/May and October/ mon’ in the mid 19th century and Rodd [1880] stated that ‘it is a November. It is interesting to note that these are almost all males common bird generally and particularly so in the neighbourhood possibly prospecting new ranges. The spring records may be over- of ’. shoots from the mostly migratory northern populations on the In 1892 M. A. Matthews remarked that ‘the Cirl Bunting Continent and those in autumn linked to post-juvenile dispersal. was ‘common throughout Cornwall’ but surprisingly, other authors The peaks in February and December are thought to be movements make no mention of it. This suggests that the distribution was in response to cold weather. patchy and local; being common where breeding habitat, summer By 1980, breeding Cirl Buntings were more or less con- and winter feeding were suitable and may be explained as follows. fined to the south coast between Rame Head and the Lizard and Cirl Buntings are fairly exacting in their requirements. In Devon they prefer dense hedges, patches of gorse, blackthorn and bramble scrub for nesting although Walpole-Bond [1938] lists hay ricks, rose bushes in gardens and ivy on walls as breeding sites. Cornish hedges (stone faced banks topped with turf or rank vegetation) would be less attractive. Chicks are fed mainly on invertebrates, especially grasshoppers, so tussocky grassland within 200m of the nest is necessary. After breeding the birds tend to gather in loose flocks, often with Yellowhammers or finches and feed on weedy arable stubbles. Spilt grain, especially barley,

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Table 2: Cirl Bunting records in Cornwall 1980-89 Table 3: Cirl Bunting records in Cornwall 1990-99 10km Records 10km Records Sq Sq SW 61 Single males on 9 May 1982 Lizard west, 11 No- SW32 Single males at Porthgwarra, 1 and 14 May 1994 vember 1984 and 16 April 1985. SW63 A male at Black Rock on 19 Aug 1983. SW42 A male at Lamorna from 29 Apr-1 May 1994

SW71 A singing male at (Lizard east) on 5 Apr SW53 A male at Goldsithney on 2 Oct 1994 1987 and a male at Coverack on 29 Dec1989 SW72 A singing male at St Keverne (Lizard north) on 27 SW 64 One at RAF Portreath (Lizard west) on 12 Dec 1995 Apr 1986 SW71 A singing male at Church Cove (Lizard east) from 3-9 SW75 Pairs at Perranporth in1982 and Sept 1986. A male May 1991 on 31 Dec 1987; 2 territories in 1988 and 1989 SW72 In 1991 there were 6 or 7 territories; proven breeding SW83 2-3 territories (Falmouth area) in 1980, 1981, 1983 in the St Keverne area (Lizard north) and probable and 1986. A pair and a singing male in 1984 and breeding near Mawgan. Between 1992 and 1994, 1-2 1985. Two pairs probably bred in 1987 and 1989 pairs bred and there was an additional 1-2 singing and 3pairs in 1988 males, with 5 birds frequently visiting a feeding sta- SW 86 A singing male at Mawgan Porth on 13 Feb 1982 tion at St Keverne in Dec 1994. In 1995 and 1996 probably 3 males were holding territory, although only SW 87 A male at on 26 Oct 1983, one on 20 one was paired but, apart from a male at Trenoweth in Feb 1984, 3 at Porth Maer in Oct 1985, 2 males at the winter of 1998/99, there were no further records. Trevose Head on 19 Oct 1986 and another male on 6 May 1989 were all passage birds SW83 One to three pairs bred (Falmouth area) between 1990 SW93 A singing male at Nare Head on 13 May 1980 and 1995 although there were 5 territories in 1991 and 1995 and 6 in 1994. From 1996 – 1999 there were SW 97 Two at Padstow on 29 Oct 1982, a male at Old occasional records of singing males and a flock of 5-6 Town Cove on 27 Feb 1985, another at Little birds at Churchtown Farm in the 1997/98 winter was Petherick on 11 June 1986 with 3 in the winter of indicative that breeding may still have occurred lo- 1987. cally. SX04 Two females at Gribben Head on 5 Oct 1980 SW87 A singing male at St Ervan on 1 May 1993. SX35 A pair bred at Polbathic in 1985

SX 36 A male at Mellion on 7 Nov 1989 SX05 One at Par Beach on 6 Dec 1998.

SX 44 A pair at Rame from 1980-1984, and a pair possibly SX25 Singing males at Hannafore from 24-26 Jun 1993, 17 bred in 1988. A male at Penlee Point on 11 March Jun 1995 and from 9 May – 16 Jun 1999. One was 1986 and a singing male at Polhawn Cove on 5 Apr near Seaton in late Apr 1994. 1987. SX 44 At Rame there was a pair on 28 May 1990, a singing SX 45 10 at Millbrook in Feb 1980 was the last ‘large’ male on 6 March 1993, one on 29 Oct 1997 and a flock in the county and there were 3-4 territories in singing male at Penlee on 28 Mar 1999 the Millbrook/St John area until 1982. A male was at St John’s Lake in Apr 1985 and a pair seen in SX 45 A female at Millbrook on 2 Mar 1996 Feb 1987. SX46 Two males at Landolph on 17 Dec 1989 SS20 A male at Bude on 7 Feb 1999 the north coast from Polzeath to Perranporth [Table 2]. The BTO population can be. The last proven breeding in the county [prior to national survey in 1982 located only 9 pairs in five 10km squares the 2006 re-introduction] was in 1994 although it is possible that [Sitters 1985]. the odd pair were successful after that. Table 3 lists all the 1990 The 1990’s saw a continued range contraction and decline records. in numbers. There were records from thirteen 10km squares but By 2000 Cirl Buntings were almost certainly extinct as a breeding only from two, both on the south coast. Cirl Buntings breeding species in Cornwall. However, in neighbouring Devon, maintained a tenuous hold in the Falmouth area and at St Keverne. the population was recovering due to the concerted efforts of the With only a single record from this area in the 1980’s, the series of Cirl Bunting Recovery Programme. breeding records from this decade illustrates how Cirl Bunting In the next issue of Palores the period from 2000 until the micro-populations can either be overlooked, or establish them- present will be examined together with an up to date assessment of selves when conditions are favourable – be it only temporarily. It the population in Cornwall as a result of the re-introduction pro- also shows how vulnerable and unsustainable a small isolated gramme.

Photographs in this article: Cirl Bunting on the facing page courtesy of Andrew Hay, RSPB. Cirl Bunting habitat images on this page thanks to Bruce Taggart.

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Sunday 24th January 9.30am Leader Gordon Mills (01209 718144 evenings) field meetings Carminowe Creek and Loe Pool. A morning walk around the creek and woods and seaward end of the pool. Meet at the Digibna Chapel car park. Map ref: SW653 251

Sunday 7th February 2.00pm Cornwall Wildlife Trust (01872 273939 x203)

Marazion Winter Wildlife Walk. We shall be looking for some overwintering birds; a few crabs if the tide is low and discover what lives on the tide-line at this time of year. Meet in the beach January - March 2010 car park on the west side of Marazion as you enter the village. A donation to CWT is requested and booking preferred to Kirstie on Sunday 3rd January 9.30am National Trust the above number. High tide 10.33am Map ref:SW515 308 (01326 561407)

Wintering Birds - a guided bird walk. Join the NT warden on a th Sunday 14 February 9.30am Leader Mike Garland leisurely walk to see the wintering birds on the beautiful Penrose Estate. Meet at Degibna car park. Cost £2 per person. (01326 377192) Map ref: SW654 250 Swanpool, Falmouth. A morning walk around the pool and sur- rounding area. Meet Swanpool car park. Sunday 10th January 9.30am Leader Gordon Mills Map ref: SW801 312 (01209 718144 evenings) Sunday 21st February 9.30am Leader Gordon Mills Marazion Beach and Marsh. A morning walk looking for gulls, (01209 718144 evenings) waders and wintering birds. Meet Folly’s Field car park, first on the right opposite telephone kiosk when approaching Marazion Tehidy Woods and Bassets Cove. A morning walk around the from Penzance. High tide 12.47pm woods and cove looking for woodland and coastal birds. Meet in Map ref: SW513 309 the Tehidy north car park off the coastal road from Hayle to Por- treath. Thursday 14th January 1.00pm Leader Pat Farmer Map ref: SW642 436 (01209 718648) th Thursday 25 February 1.00pm Leader Pat Farmer Tresillian River, St Clements. An afternoon walk along the river (01209 718648) looking for waders, ducks and gulls. Particularly suitable for new comers to bird watching. Path can be muddy so strong footwear th recommended. High tide 4.39pm Meet at St Clements car park Tresillian River, St Clements. Details as January 14 . High tide (can be restricted). 2.20pm. Map ref: SW852 439 Map ref:SW852 439

th th Friday 26 February 7.30pm Contact Gordon Mills Saturday 16 January 9.30am Leader Roger Hooper (01209 718144 evenings) (01209 820610) Chacewater Village Hall. A RSPB evening meeting speaker to be Mounts Bay, . A morning walk to look for wintering gulls confirmed. All welcome. Members & non-members admission £2 and waders around the Bay. Meet in the Longrock Cafe car park. High tide 05.17am. Sunday 28th February 9.00am Leader Viv Stratton Map ref: SW505 312. (01736 796487)

th Sunday 17 January 9.00am Leader Viv Stratton Zennor Moor. A morning walk over the moors looking for mi- (01736 796487) grant and resident birds. Meet at Zennor Church. Map ref:SW454 385

Hayle Estuary A morning walk around the area looking for gulls, Sunday 7th March 9.30am Leader Gordon Mills waders and migrant birds. Meet at Ryan’s Field car park. High (01209 718144 evenings) tide 06.00am Map ref:SW549 362

nd St Gothian Sands, . A morning walk around the area Friday 22 January 1.00pm looking for residents and any other birds that might turn up in early March. Meet in the first National Trust car park (fee might Winter Waders Bude Marshes. An afternoon guided walk around by payable by non NT members). Bude Marshes and a trip to near by Maer Lake to look for a wide Map ref: SW584 422 range of overwintering and resident birds. Please note this event will not run if raining. Meet Crescent car park, (fee payable but walk free). Map ref:SS208 063 14

Sunday 14th March 9.00am Leader Viv Stratton Friday 26th March 7.30pm Contact Gordon Mills (01736 796487) (01209 718144 evenings)

Marazion Marsh. A morning walk looking for gulls, waders and Chacewater Village Hall. A RSPB evening meeting, speaker to wintering birds. Meet in the Longrock café car park Low tide be confirmed. All welcome. Members and non-members Ad- 10.50am. mission £2 Map ref: SW515 308 PLEASE NOTE Walk leaders have given their telephone numbers with each walk. Sunday 21st March 9.30am Leader Gordon Mills However before contacting them would you please check the (01209 718144 evenings) RSPB (www.rspb.org.uk/groups/cornwall) and CBWPS

(www.cbwps.org.uk) web sites for the latest information. Every St Erth to Ryan’s Field. A winter’s walk along the effort will be made to keep the websites updated with cancella- towards the hide in Ryan’s Field. Meet in the car park opposite St tions, changes in venue or route or any access problems. Erth Church. Map ref: SW549 351 Camel Trail Nature Walks. Duration approximately 4 hours. The Saturday 20th March 9.30am Leader Roger Hooper walks will take place every Wednesday at 10.00am and will be led (01209 820610) by Bernard Ide and Martyn Cutland.

Loe Pool to Digibna. Walk along the edge of the Pool towards Meet outside ‘Countrywise’, Eddystone Road, Wadebridge.

Degibna looking for early spring arrivals and resident birds. Meet Phone ‘Countrywise’ on 01208 812 423 to check if walk is on. at Helston Amenity car park. The walk will cover wild flowers, butterflies and animals as well Map ref: SW654 270 as birds. A donation of £2 is requested for the Camel Trail walk towards the Thursday 25th March 1.00pm Leader Pat Farmer purchase and erection of a hide at a location to be agreed at a later (01209 718648) date.

Tresillian River, St Clements. Details as January 14th. High tide Field meeting safety advice: Please always take stout 12.40pm footwear, appropriate clothing and protection against Map ref: SW852 439 sun, rain, thorns, insects etc. Ask permission before

bringing a dog - and keep it on a lead. Beware of rabbit holes and low branches. Take water to drink.

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iour had I not witnessed it myself from a window in the house. The duck responded by flying to the nest. Within a few minutes the Very determined ducks drake left, leaving the duck to settle down on the new nest. In due Another intriguing bird story by Rex Harper course ten eggs were laid and the duck sat tight. Determined that this time the duck would hatch her brood n the spring of 2008 a Mallard duck turned up in my in safety, my neighbour surrounded the nest site with various items I neighbour’s garden along with her mate, a Mallard cross do- which might hopefully keep a fox at bay: old DVD discs hung on mestic, ‘call’ duck. strings, and even a scarecrow! Many ground-nesting birds lose The pair settled down and eventually the duck laid a clutch their eggs just as they are hatching when a passing fox is alerted of six eggs close to an oil storage talk on a high bank in the gar- by the sound of the chicks cheeping in their shells. As an extra den. The eggs hatched and five ducklings were reared.. When the precaution my wife suggested putting a small battery radio near adult ducks moulted they left the area and were not seen again the nest at this stage, playing music all night - presumably not until the spring of 2009 when both returned to the garden nesting foxtrots! No duck was ever so well-protected and this time around under the roots of an oak tree on the same high bank as the previ- six healthy ducklings hatched safely and were soon following their ous year. There was no doubt that this was the original pair for the mother to the nearby stream. cross-bred drake has distinctive markings and both birds are tame, So far so good. The duck took her brood to the door of the taking food from the hand and showing no fear of the household cottage several times a day where there was always a hand out of dogs. food and the ducklings soon learnt that it was quite safe to waddle Sadly, the eggs laid in this nest were taken by a fox. A into the kitchen completely disregarding the two large household week or so later the duck laid again in a nest under a hedge in the dogs. garden, but once again the eggs were found and eaten by a fox. At two weeks old the ducklings were developing well, the Numerous feathers scattered around the nest indicated that this local crows and magpies had little interest in them so late in the time the duck herself had had a close call, but undeterred, she went season (mid august), so they seemed fairly safe from predators. back to the high bank, and started to lay at the side of the oil tank. Then one morning a tremendous quacking and splashing in the The resident crows, busy feeding their young on the constant look stream alerted my neighbour and her son to the fact that something out for food, quickly spotted the ducks nest and ransacked the was attacking the duck family. Running down to the stream they eggs. were just in time to see a large eel wrapping itself around one of I have not come across a Mallard duck laying more than the ducklings, dragging it under the water and into a hole in the two clutches of eggs in a season before, but this one persisted and bank, below the surface. This was another first for me as I had not made yet another nest right against the cottage wall, but once again heard of fresh water eels attacking water fowl. the crows found the eggs. Then, and in this case an even stranger The five remaining ducklings, two drakes and three ducks, occurrence took place, the drake was seen sitting in a new nest prospered. Once they had grown their adult plumage they left the scrape, among some vegetation on the high bank, calling for his garden, probably to join the Mallard flock on a nearby lake. mate to join him. I would not have believed this pattern of behav- “Water Patterns” by Dick Twinney

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