CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING & PRESERVATION SOCIETY

SEVENTY-FOURTH

ANNUAL REPORT

2004

Red-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) The emblem of The Bird-watching & Preservation Society HONORARY OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 2005/06

President

Steve Madge, Seawinds, Lower Trerieve, Downderry, , PL 15 3LZ

Chairman Peter Crispin, 5 Church Lea, Launceston, PL 15 8QZ Vice-Chairman Graham Sutton, Harcombe, West Park Road, , EX23 8PB [email protected]

General Secretary Darrell Clegg, 55 Lower Fore Street, , PL 12 6JQ [email protected]

Treasurer Bob Bridges, 21 Pare Peneglos, Bells Hill, Mylor, TR11 5SL [email protected]

Membership Secretary Sara McMahon, 72 Underwood Road, Plympton, PL7 1SZ [email protected]

Conservation Officer Chris Mason, 3 Daniel Court, , TR1 2XJ [email protected]

Newsletter Editor Bob Bridges, 21 Pare Peneglos, Bells Hill, Mylor, TR11 5SL [email protected]

Field Meetings Officer Terry Hasdell, 1 West Tehidy, Tolvaddon, , TR14 OHP [email protected]

Public Relations Officer Vacant

Honorary Solicitor Greg Adams, 2 Street, , TR13 8PS

Committee Members: Claire Mucklow, Rosemary Parslow

$ $ The Society is a Charity registered with the Charity Commission for and Wales Number 255899 The Trustees are the Honorary Officers and other Members of the Executive Committee shown above

County Recorder Martin Elliot, Flat 10 Sennen Heights, Sennen Cove, TR19 7BO [email protected]

Editor "Birds in Cornwall" Vacant

Records Committee: Mashuq Ahmad, Greg Conway, Pete Fraser, Steve Madge, Keith Pellow, Graham Sutton & Laurie Williams

Photographs Front cover: Peregrine Falcon - Gary Cockill Back cover: Green Woodpecker - Gary Cockill

2 CONTENTS

Page

Review of the Year 2004 Kester & Ian Wilson 4

Editorial Ian Wilson 11

Acknowledgements 11

Submission of Records 12

Submission of Rarity Reports 14

Systematic List for 2004 Kester & Ian Wilson 16

Records for which details are still required 146

First and Last Dates of Summer Migrants 147

Contributors 148

Gazetteer 150

Ringing Report 2004 Greg Conway 158

Cornwall Barn Owl Survey Report 2004 Barn Owl Trust 166

The Society's Reserves 186

Acting Chairman's Report Graham Sutton 189

Conservation Report 190

Trustees' Annual Report 2004 193

Balance Sheet and Accounts 2004 195

The Society's Rules 200

Printed by B. J. Press Ltd., Unit 29 Threemilestone Ind Estate, Truro, Cornwall, TR4 9LD Copyright Cornwall Bird-watching & Preservation Society 2005

3 REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2004

Reports were received covering two hundred and eighty species, three more than last year. Two new species were recorded, Little Crake and Sharp-tailed Sandpiper. This was a year which, perhaps reflecting a warmer climate and less severe conditions to the north, saw a continuation of the trend of reducing numbers of wildfowl and waders. It also saw the earliest ever reports of several migratory species.

JANUARY Despite force nine, north to northwest gales on New Year's Eve, the American Robin was still at Godrevy on New Year's Day and remained until 2nd February. Several of last year's other rarities also remained in the county at the start of the year; a Great Bittern at Marsh until 2nd April and another at Par Beach Pool until 16th February, a Eurasian Spoonbill until 24th February, an American Wigeon on Estuary until 29th March, a Green-winged Teal on Hayle Estuary until 7th January, a Surf Scoter at Feock until 12th April, a Lesser Yellowlegs on Hayle Estuary until 3rd May, a Ring- billed Gull at Helston Boating Lake until 9th, a Ring-billed Gull at Par Beach Pool until 16th, eight Bearded Tits at until 28th March and two at Par Beach Pool until 25th March. The small group of Red-billed Choughs maintained their presence on all year. The pair nested again and four young were fledged. Some of the group have moved to other parts of the far southwest. The first day of the year also saw eight Spotted Redshanks on Tresillian River and a Glaucous Gull started a four-day stay at Marazion. A Scandinavian Rock Pipit was ringed at Hannafore on 2nd, solving the problem of its identity, and six Greater White-fronted Geese at Walmsley Sanctuary was the highest count in a poor year. A Lesser Yellowlegs appeared at Egoshayle on 3rd and stayed for ten days. There were sixty-three Black-throated Divers in Veryan Bay on 4th, fifty-two Great Northern Divers in Bay, thirty-five Yellowhammers at Trevone and twenty Reed Buntings at . A further six Scandinavian Rock Pipits were ringed on 5th at Hannafore, one of which had a Swedish ring, and twenty-one Eurasian Siskins were at . Then following day there were twenty Red Knots on the Camel Estuary. Eight Common Goldeneyes were at on 7th and seventy Long-tailed Tits were at St Austell Sewage Works. A Bonaparte's Gull started a one-week stay on the Gannel Estuary on 8th, eight hundred and two Great Black-backed Gulls were on the Camel Estuary and one hundred and twenty Common Chiffchaffs at St Austell Sewage Works. A Great Bittern visited Westerlake Farm on 9th, there were one hundred and twenty-two Common Pochards and six Greater Scaups at Loe Pool, and one hundred and ten Bramblings at Argal Reservoir. An American Wigeon at Crowdy Reservoir on 10th remained until 25th, there were three hundred and ninety-four Pied Avocets on the Upper Tamar Estuary, a Lesser Yellowlegs paid a visit to Clapper Bridge, two thousand four hundred Northern Lapwings were present on Walmsley Sanctuary, two thousand one hundred and ten Dunlins at St John's Lake and eight thousand Black-headed Gulls were on the Camel Estuary. Eighty-seven Balearic Shearwaters passed Trevose Head on 11th and a Ring-billed Gull was on the Gannel Estuary. Fifty-three Ruddy Turnstones were at Hannafore on 13th and, on 15th, six Jack Snipe were at Land's End. Five hundred and fifty Chaffinches were at Trevose Head on 17th. On 22nd, there were five hundred and fifty Eurasian Curlews on Hayle Estuary. The 23rd saw eleven Goosanders on Lower Tamar Lake. There were ninety-seven Black- tailed Godwits on on 24th, four hundred and eighty Mew Gulls in Harlyn Bay, a Glaucous Gull on Hayle Estuary and a Little Auk passed Trevose Head. Seventy-one Red-breasted Mergansers in the Carrick Roads on 25th was the highest count of the year. There were twenty Gadwalls at Drift Reservoir on 26th. On 27th there were fifty-one Purple Sandpipers at . Seven hundred and sixty-eight Common Guillemots passed Porthgwarra on 30th. FEBRUARY A Bonaparte's Gull was at Hayle Estuary on 2nd and fourteen Water Pipits at Nanjizal. Fifteen Red-throated Divers were in Harlyn Bay on 6th. A Red-rumped Swallow was at Church Cove on 8th before moving to Coverack the following day and remaining for five days. On 9th there was a count of twenty-four Slavonian Grebes off Pendower Beach. Seventy-six Common Moorhens were at Marazion Marsh on 1 Oth, a Ring-billed Gull started a two-day stay on Hayle Estuary and forty Black-billed Magpies were at Marazion Marsh. A Little Auk passed Porthgwarra on 11th. Three Ruddy Ducks arrived on on 12th and remained for two months. had sixteen Slavonian Grebes on 14th. Twenty-two Red-throated Divers were in Whitesand Bay on 16th, a Ring-billed Gull was on Helston Boating Lake and one hundred and ten Pied Wagtails were at Chiverton Cross. On 21st a Great Bittern appeared at Poldhu Cove. The 22nd saw thirty-seven Black-throated Divers in Gerrans Bay, a Great Bittern was at Loe Pool, one hundred and twenty- seven Tufted Ducks were on Swanpool, one hundred and forty-nine Grey Plovers were on the Camel Estuary, Maer Lake held two hundred and seventy-four Common Snipe and there were seventy-two Bar-tailed Godwits on the Camel Estuary. A Hume's Leaf Warbler started a three-day stay at Carnon Downs on 24th. There were seven Common Eiders off Charlestown on 25th -26th. On 28th five Hen Harriers were at Men-an-Tol.

MARCH An Iceland Gull was on Hayle estuary on 5th and was still present the following day. A Eurasian Spoonbill arrived on the Camel Estuary on 7th and remained for a further three days, and a Glaucous Gull was on the Camel Estuary. There was a Ring-billed Gull on the Camel Estuary on 9th and a Glaucous Gull was at . A White Stork visited Ladock on 12th, having previously been seen in Devon, a Hoopoe was at Botallack and fifteen Lapland Longspurs started a two-day stay at Trevose Head where fifty-five Corn Buntings were present. A Bonaparte's Gull was on Marazion Beach on 13th and stayed until the next day, and an Alpine Swift commenced a two-day stay at Marazion. An Iceland Gull was on the Camel Estuary on 15th and one thousand seven hundred Northern Fulmars passed Sennen Cove on 19th. A Hawfinch was at Porthgwarra on 28th and a Ring-billed Gull was on Hayle Estuary on 30th.

APRIL A Ring-billed Gull was on Hayle Estuary on 2nd and seven Wood Nuthatches were seen around Cotehele House. The 4th saw a Green-winged Teal at Porthpean. The passage of Manx Shearwaters at Sennen Cove on 5th was estimated at seven thousand. On 9th a Bonaparte's Gull was on Marazion Beach. A Ring-billed Gull was on Helston Boating Lake on 11th and seven Common Redstarts were at Lizard Point. There was a Ring-billed Gull on the Camel Estuary on 14th. On 15th there were single Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers at and Ponts Mill. A Common Cuckoo at Windmill Farm on 16th was the first of the year; there were three hundred Sand Martins at Marazion Marsh and a Subalpine Warbler at Land's End. A Hoopoe on 17th spent eight days between Penmillard and Trehill; there were now two Subalpine Warblers at Land's End, both staying for a further day and one remaining for eight days and a third bird appeared at Trevilley. A Glaucous Gull was at Sennen Cove on 19th and a Woodchat Shrike started a four-day stay at Land's End. Two hundred and fourteen Whimbrels passed Porthgwarra on 21st and a Common Nightingale was at Nanjizal. A Hoopoe started a three-day stay at Antony House on 22nd and another was in Polhawn Cove. On 24th a Great Egret paid visits to Marazion Marsh and Ruan Pool. A European Wryneck was at Brew on 26th and a Woodchat Shrike was at Marazion Marsh. A Black-crowned Night Heron was found at Mellinsey Mill on 27th and stayed until 2nd May, and there were two Little Plovers at Maer Lake. Fourteen Eurasian Dotterels at Davidstow on 27th had increased to seventeen on 28th and remained until the end of the month. There were five Garganey at Marazion Marsh on

5 28th, thirty-four Atlantic Puffins passed Porthgwarra and three hundred Sand Martins, five thousand Barn Swallows and seven thousand House Martins were at Launceston Sewage Works. There was a Corn Crake at Nanquidno on 29th and a Blue-headed Wagtail at Nanjizal on the final day of the month.

MAY Two Marsh Harriers were at Walmsley Sanctuary on 1st, eighty Sedge Warblers arrived at Nanjizal, sixty Common Whitethroats were at Land's End and two Wood Warblers were at Sennen. A Little Auk found at Trevose Head on 2nd was long dead; there were two Lesser Whitethroats at Windmill Farm and a Little Bunting at Nanjizal. A Wood Warbler was in Luckett Woods on 6th. An adult female Montagu's Harrier flew over Chapel Porth on 9th, a Common Crane commenced a two-day stay on the Lizard, eight Pomarine Skuas passed Porthgwarra and nine Garden Warblers were on . The passage of Manx Shearwaters at Porthgwarra on 15th was estimated at twelve thousand. Eight Red Kites flew over Brew on 16th, a Citrine Wagtail was at Windmill Farm and Eurasian Golden Orioles were at St Buryan and St Neot. There was a Bluethroat at Cam Brea on 18th. Six European Turtle Doves were at Brew on 19th and six Cetti's Warblers at Marazion Marsh. One hundred and seventy-five Eurasian Collared Doves at Skewjack Farm on 22nd was the highest count of the year, the first European Nightjar of the year was in West and a Melodious Warbler was at Porthgwarra. There were twenty-eight Grey Herons on on 23rd and a red-spotted Bluethroat was at Land's End. A Hawfinch was at Nanjizal on 24th and was still there the following day. A Red-backed Shrike was at St Buryan on 30th. The last day of the month saw the arrival of a Squacco Heron at Portmellon where it remained on the wetland below the houses until 4th June.

JUNE A Dusky Warbler at Coombe on 1st had a damaged wing and stayed for three weeks. A Little Swift at Porthcothan on 2nd was only the fourth record for the county mainland and, on 3rd, four Lesser Redpolls were in Halvana Plantation. A Common Nightingale was in Lamorna Valley on 6th and was still there the following day. A Woodchat Shrike was at Land's End on 7th at the start of a five- day stay. At least two pairs of European Storm-petrels were nesting on The Brisons on 8th together with eighty pairs of European Shags, a Eurasian Golden Oriole was at Porthgwarra and a Red- backed Shrike joined the Woodchat Shrike in the same field at Land's End. A Marsh Warbler was at Nanjizal on 9th. One thousand six hundred and five Canada Geese at Colliford Reservoir on 18th was below last year's record level, and an American Black Duck was found at College Reservoir where it remained until 18th July. An adult Eurasian Spoonbill arrived at Ruan Lanihorne on 26th at the start of a two-day visit.

JULY Two Common Quail arrived at St Buryan on 5th and remained until 2nd August. The count of one hundred and seventeen Black Scoters off Porthgwarra on 9th was the highest of the year. There were ninety House Sparrows at Trevelga on 11th and six hundred Rooks on the Gannel Estuary on 14th. One hundred and seventy European Storm-petrels were ringed at Watch on 16th. A further two hundred and twenty-eight were ringed at Porthgwarra on 17th, the Helford River held forty-six Little Egrets, two hundred and fifty Common Swifts were at Cremyll and one hundred and thirty Carrion Crows were at Deweymeads. Sixty-two European Storm-petrels were ringed at Rumps Point the following night. On 20th there was a count of one hundred and five Sanderlings. There were eight Common Grasshopper Warblers on on 23rd. On 28th a Great Egret was at Land's End. Twenty-six Common Sandpipers were on Hayle Estuary on the last day of the month.

6 AUGUST A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Maer Lake on 3rd and thirteen Green Sandpipers at Drift Reservoir on 4th. A Sharp-tailed Sandpiper appeared at Drift Reservoir on 6th at the start of a two-day stay, a welcome addition to the county mainland list. There were eleven Wood Sandpipers at Drift Reservoir on 8th and seventy Sandwich Terns on the Hayle Estuary. An adult female Montagu's Harrier was present on Goonhilly Downs on 9th and two thousand Barn Swallows were at Marazion. An Ortolan Bunting was at Nanjizal on 10th. A Long-tailed Skua at Porthgwarra on 12th was the first of eleven single records during the year, nineteen Little Terns were on Hayle Estuary, a Melodious Warbler commenced a six-day stay at Land's End and three Pied Flycatchers at Porthgwarra was the highest count in a poor year. Twenty-three Great Crested Grebes were at Neal Point on 14th when two Ospreys passed over Colliford Reservoir and seventy-four Common Terns passed Trevose Head. Thirty Blue Tits were at Marazion Marsh on 17th. The count of forty-eight Cory's Shearwaters past Pendeen Watch on 20th was two thirds of the total for the year, and seven Great Shearwaters on the same day at the same site was the highest count of the year; there were also forty-five Sooty Shearwaters. The 20th also saw a Green-winged Teal at Maer Lake, thirty-five Common Greenshanks on the Upper Tamar Estuary and a Little Owl at Rumps Point was one of only six reports during the year. Thirteen Eurasian Reed Warblers were at Marazion Marsh on 21st, a Melodious Warbler was at Nanjizal and one hundred and twenty-five Willow Warblers were at Penlee Battery. There were an estimated three hundred and fifty Ringed Plovers and two thousand eight hundred and twenty-two Herring Gulls on 22nd on Hayle Estuary, and five Ruffs at Maer Lake was the highest count of the year. A Laughing Gull arrived on Hayle Estuary on 23rd and stayed for three days. Eight Sooty Shearwaters passed Pendeen Watch on 24th together with forty-five Balearic Shearwaters, three hundred European Storm-petrels and ten Black Terns, and a Citrine Wagtail was at Nanjizal and stayed for three days. An adult female Montagu's Harrier at St Agnes Head remained in the area until 11th May. A Eurasian Spoonbill was at Clifton on 28th, a Hoopoe was at St Just and four Willow Tits at Upper Tamar Lake was the highest count of the year. On the last day of the month two first calendar White Storks, part of a French reintroduction scheme, started a two day stay during which they moved extensively around the far west of the county, a Eurasian Wryneck was at Crowdy Reservoir, a Red-throated Pipit was at Porthgwarra, a Citrine Wagtail started a seventeen- day stay at Marazion Marsh and twenty-five Spotted Flycatchers were at Crowdy Reservoir.

SEPTEMBER A first calendar Spotted Crake was at Marazion Marsh on 1st, one hundred and forty White Wagtails were at Land's End, and Ortolan Buntings were at Nanjizal and Trevose Head. A Black- crowned Night Heron commenced a two-day stay at Boscathnoe Reservoir on 2nd, Eurasian Wrynecks were at Porthgwarra and Roskestal, a Blue-headed Wagtail was at Nanjizal and a Woodchat Shrike was at Rospannel. On 3rd a Eurasian Wryneck was at Brew. A Baird's Sandpiper appeared at Crowdy Reservoir on 4th, the first of two that frequented that site and Davidstow Airfield for almost three weeks, a Pectoral Sandpiper was at Siblyback Reservoir, a Eurasian Wryneck was at and a Melodious Warbler started a four-day stay at Porthgwarra. European Honey-buzzards flew over St Buryan and on 5th, a Long-eared Owl was at Nanjizal and Eurasian Wrynecks were at St Buryan and Wiggle. Two Buff-breasted Sandpipers were at Davidstow Airfield on 6th and stayed for a further two days, up to two Eurasian Wrynecks were at Land's End for a two-week period, two Eurasian Tree Sparrows at Trevose Head were the latest of seven records during the year, and an Ortolan Bunting was at Land's End. A Baird's Sandpiper was on Marazion Beach on 7th and stayed for five days. A Common Quail at Highway on 8th was a road casualty, there were three hundred and twenty

7 Eurasian Oystercatchers on the Camel Estuary, a Pectoral Sandpiper was at Drift Reservoir, a Hoopoe started an eleven-day stay at Nanquidno, a Eurasian Wryneck was at Helston and a Grey­ headed Wagtail was at Nanjizal. A Blue-headed Wagtail was at Nanquidno on 9th, a Sykes Wagtail was at Nanjizal and ten Whinchats and one hundred and five Northern Wheatears were at Land's End. A Eurasian Wryneck was at Nanjizal, two hundred Meadow Pipits were on Davidstow Airfield and an Ortolan Bunting was at Land's End. Five Curlew Sandpipers started a five-day stay at Drift Reservoir on 11th and forty Yellow Wagtails were at Trevorian. Twelve thousand Northern Gannets passed Sennen Cove on 13th and three thousand and forty-nine passed Trevose Head, a Baird's Sandpiper commenced a two-week stay at Stithians Reservoir and another was at Drift Reservoir, and a Eurasian Wryneck was in Housel Bay. One hundred and forty Sooty Shearwaters, ninety-one Great Skuas and forty-seven Arctic Skuas passed Pendeen Watch on 14th and twelve Tree Pipits were at Chyuerton. A Baird's Sandpiper was again seen on Marazion Beach on 15th and remained until the next day, and a Buff-breasted Sandpiper was at Sennen. A Eurasian Wryneck was at on 16th. A Semipalmated Sandpiper started an eight-day stay at Drift Reservoir on 17th, a Eurasian Wryneck was at Church Cove and three hundred European Goldfinches were at Land's End. There were two hundred and forty Mallards and two hundred Common Coots at Loe Pool on 18th, Eurasian Wrynecks were at Porth Joke and Soap Cove, twenty-five Stonechats were at Land's End and a Melodious Warbler was at Nanquidno. Twenty Little Grebes and a Pectoral Sandpiper were at Siblyback Reservoir on 19th, a Eurasian Wryneck was at Kynance Farm and a Common Rosefinch was at Land's End. One hundred and forty-one European Shags were at St Ives on 21st and a Buff-breasted Sandpiper started a one-week stay on Predannack Downs. Fifty-four Mediterranean Gulls were at Stepper Point on 24th and one hundred and fifty Goldcrests were at Rump Point. A Lesser Yellowlegs at Drift Reservoir on 25th remained until 4th October and a Eurasian Wryneck was at Sennen. A Hoopoe was at Chynhalls Point on 27th and, on 28th, two hundred Eurasian Jackdaws were at Higher Lampetho Farm. A Melodious Warbler was at Nanquidno on 29th and was still present the following day.

OCTOBER Sixteen Arctic Terns passed Trevose Head on 4th. Sixteen Grey Phalaropes passed Pendeen Watch on 6th together with five hundred and twenty-seven Razorbills and a Little Auk, and six Common Crossbills were at Cury Cross Lanes. Fourteen Common Buzzards gathered at Nanquidno on 7th when there was also a Corn Crake at Nanjizal and a Pectoral Sandpiper at Pendeen. A Corn Crake was at Porthgwarra on 8th, three thousand five hundred European Golden Plovers were at Crowdy Reservoir, two thousand Common Linnets were at Wiggle and nine Snow Buntings were at St Agnes Head. An adult Common Crane at Hayle Estuary on 9th, at the start of a five-day stay, was also seen at Marazion Marsh on the first day. A Caspian Gull was at Sennen Cove on 10th. A Eurasian Wryneck was at Porthgwarra on 11th, a Greater Short-toed Lark was at Trevose Head, two thousand Fieldfares and three thousand Redwings were at Holmbush, a Barred Warbler was at Land's End and two Yellow-browed Warblers at Brew were part of fifteen seen in the county during the year. Last winter's adult Eurasian Spoonbill returned to the Lynher Estuary on 12th in the company of a first calendar and both remained to the end of the year, one hundred and ninety-three Common Redshanks were on the Upper Tamar Estuary, a Little Auk passed Porthgwarra, eight Short-eared Owls were at Land's End, a Richard's Pipit was at Porthgwarra and Red-breasted Flycatchers were at Kenidjack and Nanjizal. Six Pink-footed Geese were at St Levan on 13th and were still there the following day, a Barred Warbler started a five-day stay at Kenidjack and a Red-backed Shrike was at Drift. Last winter's Green-winged Teal returned to the Hayle Estuary on 14th and remained to the end of the year, and a Paddyfield Warbler was at Brew. A Long-tailed Duck off Rumps Point on 15th was one of ten single records during the year, there was a count of twenty Water Rails on Bude

8 Marshes and a Glaucous Gull was at Sennen Cove. A Glaucous Gull was on Hayle Estuary on 16th and a Eurasian Wryneck was at Land's End. Seventy Little Egrets were on the Camel Estuary on 17th, the Common Crane reappeared on The Lizard and four Little Stints were at Loe Pool, the highest count in a poor year. A Eurasian Wryneck was at Kenidjack on 18th and stayed for a further two days, and ten Coal Tits passed through Porthgwarra. Five Leach's Storm-petrels were seen at Mousehole on 23rd. A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Drift Reservoir on 24th and stayed until 9th November, and a Little Bunting was at Porthgwarra. Twenty-five Grey Phalaropes and seven thousand four hundred and fifty-six Black-legged Kittiwakes passed Pendeen Watch on 25th, and a Barred Warbler started a two-day stay at Porthgwarra. There were seven hundred Sky Larks at Land's End on 26th, Richard's Pipits were at Porthgwarra and Trevescan, two hundred and fifty Song Thrushes were at Trevose Head, a Penduline Tit and a European Serin and four hundred European Greenfinches were at Land's End. A Glaucous Gull was in Mount's Bay on 27th, there were three Little Auks at Rosemullion Head and twenty Black Redstarts at Sennen Cove. One Little Auk remained on 28th together with ninety-one Little Gulls, and a Richard's Pipit was at Land's End. An adult Sabine's Gull, five Grey Phalaropes and seventy Little Gulls at Penzance on 29th were the result of a severe depression and high winds over the previous two days, and two Bohemian Waxwings were at Kenidjack. A Little Auk was at Swanpool on 30th, seventy European Robins were at Brew, a Dartford Warbler at Cam Gloose was one of an increased number of reports away from breeding sites, and twelve Common Bullfinches were at Porthgwarra. Sixty Common Blackbirds were at Polhawn Fort on 31st, two Pallas's Leaf Warbler were at Land's End and three were at Nanjizal and one at Porthgwarra, and a Hawfinch was at Wadebridge.

NOVEMBER The first day of the month saw the return of last year's Great Bittern to Marazion Marsh where it remained for the rest of the year, a first calendar Little Crake at Marazion Marsh remained for a further twelve days, a Long-eared Owl was at Land's End and a Richard's Pipit was at Nanjizal. An Olive-backed Pipit was at Porthgwarra on 2nd and stayed to the following day, and two Cirl Buntings were at Rame. There were one thousand five hundred and twenty Lesser Black-backed Gulls and six Western Yellow-legged Gulls at Colliford Reservoir on 4th and a Eurasian Wryneck at Penzance. Four Red-necked Grebes were off Pendower Beach on 5th and remained for a further three days, a Richard's Pipit was at St Levan and twenty Blackcaps were at Porthgwarra. The count of seventy-two Great Cormorants on 6th at Loe Pool was the highest of the year, there were Eurasian Wrynecks at Nanquidno and Sennen and two Ring Ouzels at Chapel Point. A Ring- necked Duck at Drift Reservoir on 7th stayed for a further twenty-one days. There were eight Mistle Thrushes at Walmsley on 8th and two European Serins were at Land's End. There were eighteen Little Grebes at Caerhays on 9th; twenty-five Great Crested Grebes were on the Lynher Estuary and a first calendar Ring-necked Duck arrived at Porth Reservoir where it remained until the end of the year. A Long-eared Owl was at Nanjizal on 11th. A Hume's Leaf Warbler at Helston Sewage Works on 13th started a three-day stay. A Ferruginous Duck paid a one-day visit to Long rock Pool on 14th. A Long-eared Owl was at Trevorian on 15th and a Blyth's Pipit started a five-week stay on Treve Common. On 16th a Spotted Crake was seen at Walmsley Sanctuary. A Great Bittern at Altarnun on 17th remained until 27th December, and another was seen at Porth Reservoir the following day. A Eurasian Wryneck was at Nanjizal on 19th and another was at Land's End. A Richard's Pipit was at Brew on 20th and six Firecrests were at Nanjizal. A Little Gull was at Portscatho on 22nd. A Richard's Pipit was on Treve Common on 24th and was still present the following day. There were seventy-three Mute Swans at Marazion Marsh on

9 26th, two thousand one hundred Eurasian Wigeon and five hundred and eight Eurasian Teal were on Hayle Estuary and a Bohemian Waxwing was at Nanjizal. Four Whooper Swans visited Drift Reservoir on 27th. A Green-winged Teal at Marazion Marsh on 28th remained until 1st December, and a Little Auk found a dip in the Jubilee Pool too good to resist. A Richard's Pipit was at Dodman Point on 29th.

DECEMBER The first day of the month saw thirty-six Northern Shovelers on Loe Pool and a Ring-billed Gull on the Gannel Estuary and, on 2nd, a Glaucous Gull was at Wiggle Cliff. There were forty-four Purple Sandpipers at Sennen Cove on 5th. On 11th there were twenty-eight Black-necked Grebes in the Carrick Roads and two Tundra Swans were at Siblyback Reservoir, and on 12th, a Great Bittern was at Loe Pool and eighteen Northern Pintails were at Walmsley Sanctuary. A Ring-billed Gull was on Helston Boating Lake on 13th and stayed for a further ten days. The count of sixteen Dark-bellied Brent Geese on the Hayle Estuary on 15th was the highest of the year, as were the three hundred and twenty-six Common Shelducks at St John's Lake; last winter's American Wigeon returned to the Hayle Estuary where it remained to the end of the year and a Black Guillemot was in Gorran Haven. A Ring-billed Gull was on the Camel Estuary on 17th and a Little Auk passed Pendeen Watch. A Little Auk passed Pendeen Watch on 18th. Seven Grey Partridges at Railton on 21 st was the highest count of the year and there were forty Eurasian Woodcock at St Loy. What was presumably last winter's Great Bittern returned to Par Beach Pool on 23rd and a Green-winged Teal commenced a two-day stay at Stithians Reservoir. Two Velvet Scoters on the Camel Estuary on 24th, staying to the end of the year, followed five earlier records in the county. There were thirty-five Great Northern Divers off Porthpean on 25th. On 28th a Great Bittern visited Croft Pascoe Pool and there were two hundred and forty Mallard at Porth Reservoir. An Iceland Gull was at on 29th and was still there the following day when there were three Merlin on Goss Moor, sixteen Wood Larks were at St Martin and six Marsh Tits were at Chyuerton. The year ended with a Pallas's Leaf Warbler at Kenidjack.

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10 EDITORIAL

The first thing that I must do this year is apologise to Kris Gillam for not placing his name under the photograph of the Red-throated Pipit in the centre pages of last years report: Also to Kester because his drawing of a Common Whitethroat was incorrectly captioned as a Lesser Whitethroat.

Thank you to everyone who helped with the production of this report and to everyone who submitted reports and records. It was again pleasing to receive regular reports from many sites, helping the report to provide a wide view of the spread of species across the county from month to month.

When submitting reports please remember that the Records Committee have to base their decisions on the information submitted. If important identification features are not mentioned, the Committee are not able to assume that they have been seen.

National rarities are only entered in the report when the British Birds Rarities Committee has accepted the records.

Please note that descriptions are required for single observer sightings of Category B County Rarities. This requirement is applied to all observers so that there is not one rule for some and another rule for others. An additional benefit is that there is documentation that can be referred to in future years.

My apologies if initials are in the wrong order on rarities. Unfortunately, we do not always know the name of the original finder. Indeed, the only way of eliminating the possibility of errors would be to omit initials from the report.

Please split distinctive races of species (e.g. Brent Geese and White-fronted Geese) when submitting records, and ensure that Ordnance Survey map grid references are provided for less well-known sites (e.g. farm names, and 'local' names for sites or parts of larger sites) if they are not already included in the Gazetteer.

The 2004 edition of Birds in Cornwall is the last that will be produced by Kester and me. It will be our sixth effort, and we have decided that we should let someone else have a go. The new Recorder is Martin Elliot.

Finally, I will as always end with the editor's eternal plea. Please ensure that your records for the year 2005 are sent to the Recorder on or before the 31st January 2006.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS To: Everyone who submitted records to the County Recorder. To: Graham Hobin for WeBS count data. To: Steve Madge for providing details of Field & Natural History Club records. To: Mashuq Ahmad for providing details of sightings reported to Birding South West. To: Mashuq Ahmad, Greg Conway, Pete Fraser, Steve Madge, Keith Pellow, Graham Sutton and Laurie Williams for their assessment of county rarity reports. To: All ringers who have provided details of their ringing activities. To: Mashuq Ahmed, John Chappie, Gary Cockill, Adrian Davey, Martin Elliot, Dave Flumm, Gordon Giles, John Ryan, Mark Warren, Ian Wilson and Kester Wilson who allowed their pictures to be used in this report. To: Terry Hasdell for proofreading the report. To: Martin Elliot and Kester Wilson for line drawings. To: Pete Fraser for his assistance with the computer.

11 SUBMISSION OF RECORDS

All records for the year 2005, including descriptions where appropriate, should, be submitted to the County Recorder by 31st January 2006 to guarantee inclusion in "Birds in Cornwall 2005". The entry of records into the database is a huge task and needs to be spread over the whole year. If the submission of reports is left until the year-end, the result is late completion of the annual report. If you submit more than just a few records please submit them on a quarterly basis.

Please ensure that your name and address, together with the year to which the records apply, are shown clearly on the front page.

All records are of use. Whilst not every report is included in 'Birds of Cornwall', they are all entered in the Society's database where they are available for research. They will also be used to assist with the compilation of a Cornish Bird Atlas, a long-term project for which data will be required over several years.

Information required for county and national rarities is shown under "Rarities". All other records, to be of greatest value, should contain as much of the following information as possible: Species - English name, new or old Date - 5.10, 5/10, or 5 Oct are all acceptable Location - as accurate as possible, using names appearing on the current 1:50,000 Ordnance Survey maps. Please include grid references for less well-known sites (if not already in the Gazetteer) Number - individuals, pairs, singing males, etc. Age - adult, first cal (calendar year), second cal, etc. Sex - male or female Direction • (flying) N, S, E, W, NW, NE, etc.

All records are worthwhile, but those included in the following categories are particularly useful: o First and last dates for summer migrants o Scarce and rare species <> Counts of migrants (e.g. finches, wildfowl, gulls, thrushes, waders, seabirds, etc.) <> Breeding records (April to August, with six figure grid references e.g. SX123456) of singing males, or pairs, or nests, for the following species:

Common Kestrel Green Woodpecker Cetti's Warbler Peregrine L. S. Woodpecker Sedge Warbler Grey Partridge Wood Lark Reed Warbler Common Quail Sky Lark Dartford Warbler Moorhen Sand Martin Lesser Whitethroat Oystercatcher Tree Pipit Spotted Flycatcher Northern Lapwing Meadow Pipit Pied Flycatcher Common Snipe Grey Wagtail Willow Tit Common Curlew Dipper House Sparrow 'colonial' Seabirds Common Redstart Linnet Stock Pigeon Whinchat Common Redpoll Turtle Dove Common Stonechat Bullfinch Barn Owl Northern Wheatear Yellowhammer Little Owl Song Thrush Cirl Bunting European Nightjar Mistle Thrush Reed Bunting Common Kingfisher Grasshopper Warbler Corn Bunting

12 oWinter records (November to February including a six figure grid reference) of flocks of the following species: European Golden Plover Fieldfare Yellowhammer Northern Lapwing Redwing Cirl Bunting Barn Owl (individuals) House Sparrow Reed Bunting Wood Lark Goldfinch Corn Bunting Sky Lark (flocks over 50) Linnet oRoost Records (all year including a six figure grid reference) for the species and groups listed below: Great Cormorant All gulls (200 + birds) All Corvids Little Egret All terns Common Starling Hen Harrier Sand Martin All finches Merlin Barn Swallow All buntings All waders Pied Wagtail

Guidelines for submission of computer generated records Records should ideally be submitted to the Recorder on a 'comma-separated variable' (.CSV) file which can easily be made using most proprietary spreadsheet packages. Files with the same format, with the text (.TXT) suffix, can also be made using the same packages (e.g. MS Works, Excel). Word processed files are seldom any more use than hand written notes, although sometimes easier to read! Please do not: - forget to include a header record with the names of each column (e.g. species, site, etc.) - save your spreadsheet in its own format. The Recorder may not have the same spreadsheet as you, or may not have the same version. That is why the .CSV/.TXT format is so useful - it is easily read by other software. - include more than one year's records in one file. - show the first and last dates in the same column. - include the grid reference with the site name - use a separate field. - do not include apostrophe's in place or bird names. - do not include letters (e.g. "c") in the number field. - do not include plus signs in the number field (e.g. "100+"). - do not include hyphens in the number field (e.g. "100 - 130"). - if a maximum monthly figure is shown, date as the first day of the month and add "max" in the comments column.

Sample submission style: SPECIES,SITE,DATE,NO,AGE,AGENO,SEX,SEXNO,NOTES Purple Heron, Marazion Marsh,25/04/99,l,AD,l,„flew in from W at 1400 Whooper Swan, Long Rock Pool,02/03/99,4„„,1430 and 1530 Brent Goose, Marazion Beach,30/01/99,1,,,,,

WILDFOWL and WADER COUNTS The organising and collating of these important counts has, since November 2001, been the responsibility of Graham Hobin, Lower Drift Farmhouse, Drift, Buryas Bridge, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6AA: tel. no. 01736 362206. County volunteers are always required and anyone interested is asked to contact Graham at the above address.

13 SUBMISSION OF RARITY REPORTS

National Rarities Descriptions of national rarities should be sent to the County Recorder who will then forward them to the British Birds Rarities Committee (BBRC) for appraisal. These descriptions should follow the criteria listed below or can be submitted on special BBRC forms that are available from the County Recorder or the Secretary of the BBRC, Mr. M. J. Rogers, 2 Churchtown Cottages, Towednack, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 3AZ. Please enclose copies of field notes and photographs, where possible.

County Rarities The identification of the majority of county rarities is quite easy for experienced observers and, consequently, the following list of 'Group A' species requiring a full description is relatively small. Many of the species requiring a full description in the past are now included in 'Group B'. Descriptions are not required for sightings of 'Group B' species unless specifically requested by the County Recorder, and provided the bird or birds have been seen by three, experienced observers who are known to the Rarities Committee - the names of the observers should be included when details of sightings are submitted. These arrangements have been introduced to eliminate the need for unnecessary descriptions of 'easy' rarities, without compromising the integrity of the county records.

Group A - Species requiring a full description Bean Goose Rough-legged Buzzard Twite American Wigeon Long-tailed Skua Mealy Redpoll Surf Scoter Caspian Gull Rustic Bunting European Honey-buzzard Kumlien's Gull Any unusual subspecies Montagu's Harrier Roseate Tern Northern Goshawk Tawny Pipit

Group B - Species not normally requiring a description, provided the bird(s) has been seen by at least three experienced observers who are known to the Rarities Committee - please submit names of observers with the record details. Purple Heron Ring-billed Gull Barred Warbler White Stork Sabine's Gull Icterine Warbler Pink-footed Goose Long-eared Owl Melodious Warbler Snow Goose European Bee-eater European Serin Green-winged Teal Short-toed Lark Red-breasted Flycatcher Ring-necked Duck Horned Lark Woodchat Shrike Corn Crake Bluethroat Red-billed Chough Common Crane Richard's Pipit L. S. Woodpecker Kentish Plover 'Scandinavian' Rock Pipit Common Rosefinch Stone Curlew Water Pipit (away from Ortolan Bunting Temminck's Stint Maer Lake and Walmsley Cirl Bunting Pectoral Sandpiper Sanctuary) Plus any uncommon races Buff-breasted Sandpiper Rufous Nightingale Red-necked Phalarope Aquatic Warbler

14 Criteria for national and county rarity descriptions

All descriptions, no matter how brief, are of great value so do not be put off by the list below. This list is for guidance to show what information should ideally be included in a description.

Always include as much information as possible; even the smallest or obvious features should be included as these are often invaluable when records are assessed. Make notes and sketches in the field, and before you refer to any textbooks.

Information to be included in a description * Species * Previous experience of species * Location * Experience of similar species * Date(s) (first and last if known) * Weather conditions * Time(s) * A brief summary of how the bird * Number was found and/or identified * Age and sex * Full details of plumage and bare parts * The finder and/or identifier * Calls * Duration of observation * Distinctive behaviour (whilst feeding, * Distance from bird(s) flying, etc.) * Optical aids used * Any other distinctive features * Species nearby for comparison

The County Recorder is: Martin Elliot, Flat 10 Sennen Heights Sennen Cove Cornwall TR19 7BO email address: [email protected]

15 SYSTEMATIC LIST FOR 2004

Sightings are mainly listed in the alphabetical order of localities to facilitate easier reading of the report. All the records included in this report, together with many other sightings, are included in the Society's computerised records from which data can be extracted in alternative formats with relative ease.

The tables headed 'Approximate monthly totals' illustrate the maximum number of birds recorded on the county mainland during each month, after (as far as possible, and where possible) allowing for the movement of birds during the month.

A review of historical data has been undertaken for many species and, from this, the 'Approximate monthly totals (historic)' have been calculated. Whenever possible the figures have been adjusted to take account of birds wandering from site to site. In respect of BBRC rarities, only birds that have been reported to and accepted by the Rarities Committee have been included.

The 'Regular reports and maximum numbers' tables give maximum day counts at selected sites for each month.

The term ' first cal' is used as a shortened version of'first calendar year' (i.e. a bird hatched in June of year one will enter its second calendar year on the following 1 st January) and the same use is made of 'second year' etc. The purpose of introducing this system was to standardise the various systems of ageing birds that are used by birdwatchers when submitting information.

Abbreviations used within the report include the following:

BBRC - British Birds Rarities Committee BTO - British Trust for Ornithology CP - Country Park Est. - Estuary Res. - Reservoir RSPB - Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Sane. - Sanctuary Tetrad - 2km x 2km grid square

The symbol ' - ' in various tables indicates that either no birds were present or that no count was received for that particular period.

References Cornwall Bird -Watching and Preservation Society reports 1931 -2003 Caradon Field and Natural History Club report 2004 British Birds 2004

16 RED-THROATED DIVER - Gavia stellata Winter visitor and passage migrant Distributed along the entire coastline but with concentrations of spring migrants regularly occurring along the north coast off headlands between and Port Isaac, and off the south coast between Seaton and Downderry. Overall numbers were well below the average of the previous ten years. The highest count in Whitsand Bay was similar to recent years, but was only a third of last year's numbers in the Trevose Head area. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 20 57 20 9 7 - - - 1 5 8 21 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 1 2 ------1 Carrick Roads - 1 - _ - _ - - _ _ - - Gerran's Bay - 1 ------1 1 - Lizard Point - 4 3 - 3 ------Mevagissey Bay - - 1 ------1 - Mount's Bay - - 1 1 ------2 1 2 12 ------1 - Porthgwarra - - 1 1 3 - - - - - 1 - St Austell Bay 2 - 2 - - - - - 1 1 2 St Ives Bay 1 - 1 ------Trevose/Harlyn 5 15 1 2 - - - - 1 1 - 2 Whitsand Bay 9 22 10 3 1 - - - - - 1 13 Other reports include: Pendeen Watch: One on 14th Oct. Saltash: One on 11th Dec. St. John's Lake: One on 10th - 17th Oct: One on 3rd Dec.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER - Gavia arctica Winter visitor and passage migrant Mainly a bird of the more sheltered south coast, with large gatherings regularly seen in Veryan Bay and Gerrans Bay. The latter form a significant proportion of the UK population. As it is only about eighteen miles from the western end of Gerrans Bay, through Veryan Bay and Mevagissey Bay to the eastern end of St Austell Bay, there is presumably a good deal of movement between these south coast sites. Larger flocks also occur in St. Austell Bay. Overall numbers this year were high, approximately twenty-three per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Counts were again high in both the St Austell Bay and Gerrans/Veryan Bays areas. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 135 99 113 57 11 3 - - 1 1 57 48 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Gerrans Bay 25 37 36 19 8 - - - 1 - 15 13 Mount's Bay 3 1 2 4 - 1 _ - - 3 _ St. Austell Bay 41 15 34 8 2 2 - - 1 17 35 Veryan Bay 63 37 29 16 ------22 - Whitsand Bay 1 8 5 2

17 Great Northern Diver & Black-throated Diver (Kester Wilson) GREAT NORTHERN DIVER - Gavia immer Winter visitor and passage migrant This species is the most widespread of the divers, but they tend to be more solitary and rarely form more than small "rafts". Concerted survey work in the past has confirmed the significance of the stretch of coast from St. Austell Bay to the Helford River where, although thinly distributed, internationally important numbers have been located and large flocks pass through in spring. Numbers since 1996 have been significantly higher than in the earlier years of the 1990's, this trend also being seen in the size of flocks recorded in St. Austell Bay and Whitsand Bay. Overall numbers this year were a little below last year and approximately ten per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 87 72 82 38 39 2 - - 3 12 68 67 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 1 1 ------1 1 Carrick Roads 2 1 2 ------1 1 Falmouth Bay - - - - • ------Gerrans Bay 10 12 15 5 5 1 - - - 1 7 8 Land's End - - - 2 4 - - - - 1 1 - Mevagissey Bay 2 - - - 1 - - - - 1 6 - Mount's Bay - 4 8 1 - - - - - 2 11 6 Porthgwarra - 2 - 1 4 - - - - 2 - - St. Austell Bay 52 20 36 20 11 - - - 1 2 34 35 St Ives Bay 1 - - - 1 - - - - - 1 3 Sennen Cove ------Trevose/Harlyn 1 - - 1 1 - - - 1 1 - 2 Veryan Bay 6 1 ------3 - Whitsand Bay 9 28 19 8 9 - - - - - 1 5 Other reports include: Argal Res: One on 18th Sep. Brew, Sennen: One on 19th May. Cawsand Bay: Two on 1st Jan - 14th Feb: One on 27th Mar. Coverack: One on 28th Dec. Hayle Est: One on 1st - 30th Nov with two on 26th Nov and 12th Dec. Helford River: One on 2nd Feb. Lizard Point: Singles on 23rd Mar and 10th Jun. Pendeen: Two on 25th Oct. St. Levan: Two on 13th May. Tamar Est: One on 11th Dec. To wan Head: One on 4th Jan and two on 23 rd Dec.

18 LITTLE GREBE - Tachybaptus ruficollis Scarce resident that occasionally breeds, passage migrant and winter visitor The number of birds recorded is always low in April to July but, whilst this will in part be due to some migration of birds out of the county, it probably also reflects the skulking nature of this species during the breeding season when other than single birds are rarely seen. Recorded numbers increased steadily in the 1990's but there was a substantial reduction in 2000. Overall numbers have increased steadily since then and this year were back to or even a little above the peak in the late 1990's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 177 160 71 33 11 15 22 41 92 131 189 171 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Caerhays 12 6 ------18 - Camel Est. 2 - 2 1 - - - - 1 2 6 4 Crowdy Res. ------1 2 1 1 1 Dozmary/Colliford - - 1 1 - - 2 2 1 2 2 3 Drift Res. 17 14 9 2 - 3 3 7 14 14 8 6 Est. 10 4 2 2 ------6 6 Harlyn Pools 8 8 5 3 - - 1 - 1 4 4 5 Hayle Est. 13 14 4 4 - - - 1 4 6 7 8 Loe Pool 7 8 2 ------12 6 7 Looe Est. 3 ------5 2 4 Lynher Est. 2 2 2 ------3 3 Marazion Marsh 5 8 5 4 2 3 - 4 5 8 10 11 Millbrook/St. John's 16 14 7 - - - 2 3 5 12 16 16 Par Beach Pool 5 3 4 3 2 4 5 3 3 5 4 6 Percuil River 4 2 2 2 1 - - - - - 12 3 St. Andrews Pool, Par 4 2 1 - - - - - 1 2 2 3 St. John's Lake 9 5 5 - - - - 1 1 6 8 8 Siblyback Res. 14 12 7 - - - 3 3 20 16 8 9 Stithians Res. 16 7 - - 2 - - 6 13 15 18 11 Swanpool 3 21 ------8 3 10 7 Tehidy Country Park - - - - 2 2 2 5 6 6 6 10 Tresillian River 10 6 4 - - - - 4 5 7 5 5 Walmsley Sane. 3 3 4 3 - - - 1 2 - 2 3 Other reports include: St. Just in Roseland: Eleven on 3rd Dec.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE - Podiceps cristatus Rare breeding resident, scarce passage migrant and winter visitor There has been an increase in wintering birds that commenced during the winter of 1978/9, particularly on the Lynher Estuary: Prior to then there was rarely more than a single bird recorded on the estuary whereas, during the last seven years, there has been an average largest flock of thirty- seven. Overall numbers reported have been similar for the last six years, showing a small but steady increase. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 75 60 37 20 26 25 28 53 21 38 74 68

19 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 6 6 1 ------3 College Res. 2 - 2 - 2 - - - - - 1 1 Colliford/Dozmary - - 2 7 5 4 6 1 - 4 1 - Crowdy Res. - 1 1 - 4 1 2 - - - - Drift Res. 1 1 1 1 - - 1 1 - - - - Loe Pool 3 3 1 ------Lynher Est. 13 16 1 1 - 3 5 23 16 14 25 12 Neal Point 18 2 5 - - - 2 - - 3 22 18 St. Austell Bay 16 15 14 2 2 6 1 - 2 4 5 15 St. John's Lake 12 8 4 3 - - - 2 2 11 17 16 Siblyback Res. - 1 1 1 4 3 2 - - - - - Stithians Res. - 5 4 4 9 8 7 4 1 1 - - Upper Tamar Lake 3 - - - - - 4 20 - - - -

RED-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps grisegena Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant The majority of wintering birds are seen on the south coast between St. Austell Bay and the Helford River. Although they are regularly encountered on the north coast at St Ives and Hayle, few birds have been reported from those areas during recent years. This is now the most rare of the grebes in Cornwall. Overall numbers increased steadily from the mid 1980's through to a peak in 1996, but then started to reduce annually. This year numbers were significantly lower than last year, only about two thirds of the average of the previous ten years and the lowest since 1985. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 4 4 ------3 1 6 3 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bude 1 Carrick Roads 1 Gerrans Bay 1 1 4 2 Porthgwarra 1 St. Austell Bay 1 1 1 1 St. John's Lake 1 Veryan Bay 1 2 Whitsand Bay 1 Other reports include: Trebarwith Strand: One picked up on 10th Sep was released at Ventongimps.

SLAVONIAN GREBE - Podiceps auritus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Largest parties occur along the south coast in Gerrans, Whitsand and St. Austell Bays, with smaller numbers regularly frequenting the Camel Estuary on the north coast. Overall numbers were very similar to last year, but only about a third of the peak in 1997 and approximately thirty per cent below the average of the previous ten years.

20 Slavonian Grebe (Martin Elliot)

Approximate monthly totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 40 58 18 6 - - - 2 - 3 9 27 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 3 4 3 ------1 4 Carrick Roads 4 1 2 ------Gerrans Bay 15 24 2 4 ------3 9 Lynher Est. - 2 ------1 3 Millbrook/St. John's 2 1 1 1 - - - - - 2 1 1 Mount's Bay 1 3 3 ------2 St. Austell Bay 8 6 4 ------2 4 Whitsand Bay 2 16 3 1 - - - - - 1 1 4 Other reports include: Argal Res: One on 1st Dec. Carbis Bay: One on 11th - 13th and 25th Jan. Church Cove: One on 6th Feb. Portmellon: One on 16th Jan. Tresillian River: Two on 21st Aug. Veryan Bay: Three on 5th Jan.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps nigricollis Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor This species occurs mainly off the south coast between St. Austell Bay and Falmouth. Numbers increased appreciably from 1995 onwards, doubtless reflecting a doubling of the UK breeding population over the last two decades of the 1900's. The ten-year running average of overall numbers is now six times higher than it was in 1989. The major increase has been in the Carrick Roads where there was a high count of forty-six in January 2002. This species used to be described as the most rare of the grebes in Cornwall, but numbers now far exceed the Red-necked Grebe population. Overall numbers this year were higher than last year, but that statistic hides the fact that numbers were lower during the early months and higher during the latter months. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1980 2 5 7 ------4 1981 2 3 4 ------3 1982 6 5 ------1 - -

21 1983 1 ------3 - 2 1984 2 3 2 1 - - - 1 - - - - 1985 1 8 3 1 1 - - - 2 3 3 1 1986 2 6 1 5 - - - 2 2 2 1 - 1987 7 12 5 2 - - - 1 4 1 - 2 1988 7 6 1 2 - - - 1 - 1 14 19 1989 6 1 2 1 - - - - - 5 14 1990 15 2 2 - - - - - 1 2 4 1991 4 1 2 - - - - 1 4 1 1 2 1992 6 5 - - - - - 1 1 - 4 1993 9 1 - - - - - 1 1 - 10 10 1994 12 11 1 1 - - - - 2 1 15 1995 18 21 11 1 - - - 2 2 2 33 1996 41 26 13 4 - - - 1 - 1 4 33 1997 32 34 22 2 - 1 - 4 1 2 11 44 1998 44 38 15 5 - - - - - 1 38 35 1999 75 27 13 - - - - - 1 2 29 32 2000 62 24 11 2 - - - 2 1 1 - 23 2001 48 41 14 1 - - - 2 5 8 4 55 2002 53 21 15 - - - - 1 - 4 5 37 2003 56 26 7 5 - - - 2 3 3 19 15 2004 24 24 12 1 - - - - 3 20 24 65 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Carrick Roads 12 17 6 - - - - - 3 17 21 28 Drift Res. 1 1 1 1 - - - - - 1 - - Gerran's Bay 2 6 3 ------1 14 Loe Beach 6 ------1 - 15 Mevagissey Bay ------1 - 3 Millbrook/St. John's 2 ------2 3 Other reports include: Argal Res: One on 11th Dec. Camel Est: One on 31st Jan. Harlyn Bay: One on 18th Dec. Lynher Est: Two on 26th Nov - 3rd Dec were presumably the St. John's Lake birds. Mount's Bay: Two on 28th Mar. Swanpool: One reported regularly 3rd Nov - 31st Dec was presumably one of the Carrick Roads flock.

Truro River: Twelve of the Carrick Roads Flock on 12th Dec.

NORTHERN FULMAR - Fulmarus glacialis (Fulmar) Breeding resident that travels widely. Most adults leave British waters to moult during September and October This species was occasionally seen in Cornwall from 1931 onwards. The first record of breeding was at Trevone in 1944, and they bred at Godrevy the following year "after six years of sitting around". Breeding was recorded at five sites in 1946 and they subsequently colonised the entire coastline in significant and increasing numbers. Reports include: Newquay: 330 on 4th May: 252 on 23rd Jun. Porthgwarra: 423 on 30th Jan. St. Ives Island: 400 on 20th Aug. Sennen Cove: 1,700 on 19th Mar. Trevose Head: 439 on 31st Jan: 258 on 2nd Feb: 215 on 1st April: 372 on 14th Aug: 359 on 13th Sep. 22 CORY'S SHEARWATER - Calonectris diomedea Scarce pelagic visitor, mainly seen in mid-June to early September, but with occasional years when large numbers are recorded Mainland records commenced in 1961 when the Rare Birds Committee accepted a record off Land's End. Small numbers of up to five in any one year were then seen, with several blank years, until 1980 when two thousand seven hundred and thirty-two were reported. Records have been annual with regular reports from the main seawatching points in the west of the county. Large numbers were recorded in 1993 (2,084), 1998 (4,910) and 1999 (4,116). Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1961 ------1 - - - 1964 ------1 2 2 - - 1965 ------1 - 1966 ------3 - - - - 1967 ------2 - - - 1971 ------1 - - 1976 - - - - 1 - 2 - - - - - 1980 ------228 2,499 5 - - - 1981 - - - - - 4 4 15 9 - - - 1982 ------11 3 - - - 1983 ------11 5 - - - 1985 ------8 564 6 - - - 1986 ------23 12 - - 2 - 1987 - - - 1 - - 4 8 - 2 - . - 1988 ------7 6 3 - 1 1989 ------4 510 2 - - 1 1990 ------1,305 6 - - - - 1991 - - 1 1 - - - 3 1 - - - 1992 ------5 1,007 - - - - 1993 ------185 1,843 56 - - - 1994 - - - - - 1 4 28 3 - - - 1995 ------. 2 2 6 - - - 1996 ------22 17 - - - - 1997 - - - - 5 108 154 730 - 1 - - 1998 - - - - - 5 303 33 4,569 - - - 1999 - - - 2 - 167 203 1,877 1,864 3 - - 2000 ------37 753 158 1 - - 2001 - - - - - 2 33 40 3 - - - 2002 - - - - 1 - 72 35 2 1 - - 2003 ------37 3 2 - - - 2004 - - - 3 5 8 58 - - - - Clodgy Point, St Ives: Two on 16th May BSW. Land's End: Two on 26th July RI: Two on 24th Aug RI. Pendeen Watch: Two on 23rd Jun JHy, CMo, MWa: Three on 13th Aug MWa, CMo: Forty-eight on 20th Aug KAW, MWa, CMo. Porthgwarra: Two on 30th Jun KAW: One on 29th July MWa. Rumps Point: Two on 20th Aug CS. Trevose Head: Three on 30th Jul SMC: Two on 31st Jul SMC: Two on 4th Aug SMC, LW: One on 13th Aug JDB, SMC. Wolf Rock: One on 21st May BD. The county mainland total is now c. 19,750 since 1961. The total of seventy-four this year follows three years of similar small numbers, far below the excellent years of 1998 and 1999.

23 Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 4 10 292 2,650 10,075 6,702 11 3 2

GREAT SHEARWATER - Puffinus gravis Scarce pelagic visitor, mainly seen in mid-July to early September, but with occasional years when large numbers are recorded The first mainland record was reported in 1958, with only occasional sightings in the following years to 1975 when one hundred and twenty-eight were reported. The first very large count was in 1991 when two thousand three hundred and twenty-six were reported, and the best ever year was in 1999 when two thousand eight hundred and twenty-five were reported. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1958 ------1 - - 1965 ------1 - 1967 ------4 - - - 1968 ------2 1 - - 1972 - - - - - 2 ------1973 ------4 - - - - 1975 ------2 1 125 - - - 1976 ------5 - - - - - 1978 ------1 - - - - - 1980 - - - 1 - - 48 5 9 - - - 1981 ------1 - 2 - - - 1983 ------151 - - - 1985 - - - 1 - - 14 12 - 1 - 1986 - - - - - 1 5 - - - - 1987 ------1 7 3 1 - - 1988 ------1 23 2 - - 1989 ------181 2 - - - 1990 ------11 46 - 1 - - 1991 ------33 2,292 1 - - 1992 ------1 10 1 - - - 1993 ------59 375 - - - 1994 ------4 1 - - 1995 ------1 - 18 - - - 1996 ------1 2 - 2 - - 1997 ------381 2 2 - - 1998 - - - 1 - - 10 282 58 8 - - 1999 - - - - - 2 9 2,102 701 12 - - 2000 - - - • - - - 1 36 28 4 1 - 2001 ------5 64 4 1 - - 2002 ------6 743 7 - - - 2003 ------2 - - - 2004 ------14 4 - - - Pendeen Watch: Seven On 20th Aug MWa, KAW: One on 24th Aug MWa, KAW: Two on 14th Sep KAW. Trevose Head: Four on 21st Aug SMC: Singles on 27th and 30th Aug and 9th and 19th Sep SMC. The county mainland total increases to c. 7,978 since 1958. This year's total of eighteen follows two last year and is the second lowest since 1996. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 3 - 4 112 3,990 3,829 37 3 -

24 SOOTY SHEARWATER - Puffinus griseus Pelagic visitor There have been reports of a global decline of this widespread seabird, and we are perhaps starting to see a reflection of this in the number of records seen in recent years. Average numbers since 1994 are significantly lower than were reported in the early 1990's and the 1980's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1968 - - - - - 1 - 2 25 4 - - 1969 ------4 21 2 1 - - 1970 ------1 39 10 2 2 - 1971 ------3 4 168 2 . - 1972 - - - - 1 - 4 18 11 1 3 - 1973 ------7 22 7 - - - 1974 ------4 18 49 2 - - 1975 ------26 22 32 3 - - 1976 - - - - - 15 7 3 12 9 1 - 1977 ------13 24 72 - 2 1 1978 - - - - - 2 13 3 344 6 2 - 1979 - - - - - 2 4 115 289 10 - - 1980 - - - - 1 4 15 177 756 26 - - 1981 - - - - - 2 54 39 39 33 11 - 1982 - - - - 1 1 7 83 34 63 7 1 1983 ------3 1 882 15 - 2 1984 1 - - - - 4 - 3 225 8 - - 1985 - - - - - 1 136 1,284 1,615 - - - 1986 ------131 538 4 15 - - 1987 ------161 32 79 104 - - 1988 ------245 376 2,154 264 - - 1989 ------15 341 361 105 4 3 1990 ------15 148 449 169 - - 1991 ------6 84 280 30 2 - 1992 - - - - - 1 21 538 315 94 - - 1993 1 - - - - - 39 313 592 6 1 - 1994 - - - - - 10 9 286 241 5 - 1 1995 - - - - 1 - 3 47 306 89 - - 1996 - - - - 1 1 4 166 155 33 3 - 1997 - 1 - - - 4 5 140 126 39 5 1 1998 - 1 - - - 6 42 173 676 117 8 - 1999 1 - - - - 13 12 165 212 95 3 - 2000 3 - - - - 4 8 41 290 50 3 5 2001 1 - - 1 - 8 112 82 226 19 3 - 2002 1 - - 1 1 5 57 224 110 182 24 2 2003 1 - - - - 1 19 7 33 35 8 - 2004 - - - - 2 8 2 232 319 16 - - Reports include Black Head, Cc rverack: One o n22nd Aug. Cape Cornwall: Two on 13th Sep. Chapel Point: Two on 16th Sep. Godrevy Point: Two on 20th Aug : Eleven on 14th Sep. Gorran Haven: Singles on 16th Sep and 1st Oct. Killigerran Head: One on 18th Aug. Land's End: One on 9th Aug: Eight on 24th Aug. Lizard Point: One on 23rd Aug. Newquay: One on 14th Sep.

25 Pendeen Watch: Three on 23rd Jun: Six on 13th Aug: Two on 18th Aug: Forty-five on 20th Aug: Eighty on 24th Aug: Seven on 29th Aug: Twelve on 30th Aug: Two on 11th Sep: Twenty on 13th Sep: 140 on 14th Sep: One on 15th Sep: Eleven on 20th Sep: Four on 21st Sep: Seventeen on 23rd Sep: Four on 14th Oct: Five on 25th Oct: Three on 6th Oct. Porthgwarra: Two on 24th May: Two on 30th Jun: One on 29th Jul: One on 5th Aug: Two on 12th Aug: One on 18th Aug: One on 21st Aug: Seventeen on 3rd Sep. Rumps Point: Three on 26th Aug: One on 27th Aug St. Ives Island: Five on 21st Sep. Sennen Cove: Three on 24th Jun: Five on 13th Sep. Towan Head: Eight on 23rd Aug: Six on 11th Sep: Six on 14th Sep. Trevose Head: Singles on 30th Jul and 2nd Aug: Three on 4th Aug: One on 13th Aug: Two on 14th and 15th Aug: Six on 19th Aug: One on 21st Aug: Thirteen on 24th Aug: Twelve on 27th Aug: Two on 29th Aug: Six on 30th Aug: Twelve on 3rd Sep: Three on 4th Sep: Two on 11th Sep: Eleven on 12th Sep: Ten on 13th Sep: Thirty-six on 14th Sep: One on 19th Sep: Eight on 20th Sep: Four on 23rd Sep: Two on 4th Oct: One on 14th Oct. The county mainland total is now c. 20,366 since 1968. There were five hundred and seventy-nine birds this year, a four times increase on last year but only twenty per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 9 2 - 2 8 93 1,204 5,790 11,330 1,818 94 16

Manx Shearwaters (Kester Wilson) MANX SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus Summer visitor, mainly from late March to October Non-breeding birds increase numbers in late summer. Feeding parties are seen offshore in summer, and a few are seen during winter months. Breeding at the last known mainland colony, at Kellan Head, is believed to have ceased in 1936. Numerous corpses have subsequently been recovered on a regular basis from north coast headlands where there are numerous rabbit burrows and an apparently suitable breeding habitat. Reports include: Lamledra: 3,000 on 4th May. Newquay: 4,332 on 17th Jun: 1,290 on 2nd Jul. Pendeen Watch: 2,000 on 23rd Jun: 2,000 on 24th Jun: 1,000 on 20th Aug: 3,500 on 23rd Sep. Porthgwarra: 3,500 on 4th May: 12,000 on 15th May. Rumps Point: 1,000 on 14th Sep. St. Ives Island: 2,526 on 21st Sep.

26 Sennen Cove: 7,000 on 5th Apr: 650 on 11th May: 3,500 on 13th Sep. Trevose Head: 1,250 on 16th Apr: 3,232 on 22nd Apr: 1,724 on 23rd Apr: 1,572 on 10th May: 1,858 on 29th May: 1,960 on 18th Jun: 2,910 on 4th Jul: 2,113 on 2nd Aug: 1,973 on 19th Aug: 1,294 on 12th Sep

BALEARIC SHEARWATER - Puffinus mauretanicus (Mediterranean Shearwater) Regular pelagic visitor The running ten-year average of records has increased every year since 1990, but this may be the result from increased observer awareness rather than an identifiable increase in birds off our shores. Increased numbers have been reported during the early part of the year in recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1971 - - - 2 8 - - 3 - - 2 - 1972 1 - - - - - 13 8 - 8 5 - 1973 ------5 16 27 3 2 - 1974 - - - - 3 - 8 8 45 7 - - 1975 - - - - 2 1 11 28 28 3 - - 1976 - - - 1 2 1 26 2 29 10 3 - 1977 ------16 27 5 21 11 4 1978 2 - - - 1 - 12 10 74 21 1 4 1979 - - - - - 1 1 86 22 2 13 8 1980 6 - 2 - - 4 50 84 60 20 - - 1981 - - - - - 1 41 33 39 54 1 - 1982 - - - - 1 4 7 48 58 32 5 2 1983 - - - - - 1 - 4 66 12 - - 1984 - - - - - 3 8 18 52 20 - - 1985 - - 1 - 1 - 3 92 39 12 8 - 1986 ------36 57 12 16 6 - 1987 2 - - - - - 29 24 25 36 - - 1988 2 - - - - - 16 26 49 62 - - 1989 ------1 38 125 1 - 1 1990 - 2 - - - 1 2 34 40 83 1 1 1991 1 - - - - 1 7 68 115 53 1 - 1992 ------23 263 79 21 - - 1993 - - - - 2 4 70 224 132 10 - 1 1994 - - 1 1 - - 5 131 169 5 1 2 1995 1 2 - - 11 3 80 71 105 35 - - 1996 4 - - - 1 7 15 515 95 200 25 - 1997 - 1 2 - 1 23 27 267 105 88 32 23 1998 6 - - - 2 66 106 145 361 169 14 1 1999 7 - - 1 - 8 19 155 236 125 13 7 2000 2 - - 1 - - 26 71 29 64 15 10 2001 4 - - - - 9 321 176 213 147 34 - 2002 21 64 3 - 7 13 68 147 33 127 38 5 2003 7 - - - 4 8 253 91 143 77 89 26 2004 171 1 3 - 1 14 13 154 50 45 - - Reports include: Black Head, Coverack: One on 22nd Aug: Nine on 23rd Aug: One on 24th Aug. Carbis Bay: One on 25th Jan. Chapel Point: One on 21st Oct. Constantine Bay: Four on 28th Jan. Downderry: One on 18th Aug. Godrevy Point: Three on 17th Jan: Four on 18th Jan: One on 20th Aug: Three on 14th Sep.

27 Gorran Haven: Singles on 11th Aug, 18th Aug and 1st Sep. Killigerran Head: Six on 18th Aug: Ten on 23rd Aug. Lizard Point: Three on 21st Mar: One on 23rd Aug. Newquay: One on 26th Aug: Five on 23rd Sep: One on 6th Oct. Pendeen Watch: Two on 23rd Jun: One on 13th Aug: Twelve on 18th Aug: One on 20th Aug: Forty- five on 24th Aug: One on 25th Aug: One on 28th Aug: Seven on 30th Aug: One on 13th Sep: Two on 14th Sep: One on 20th Sep: Two on 21st Sep: One on 22nd Sep: Seven on 23rd Sep: Eight on 6th Oct: Two on 8th Oct: Four on 14th Oct: Twenty-one on 25th Oct. Penlee Point: One on 18th Aug. Porthgwarra: One on 8th Jan: One on 11th Feb: One on 15th May: One on 22nd Jun: One on 29th Jun: One on 16th Jul: One on 17th Jul: Five on 20th Jul: One on 24th Jul: Two on 29th Jul and 5th Aug: Singles on 8th and 9th Aug: Eight on 12th Aug: Six on 18th Aug: One on 21st Aug: One on 23rd Oct: Two on 24th Oct. Porth Kidney: Four on 19th Jan: Three on 21st Jan. : Six on 18th Aug: Two on 19th Aug: Singles on 23rd Aug and 12th Sep. Rumps Point: Three on 20th Aug: One on 14th Sep. St. Ives Island: Two on 16th Jan: Twenty-three on 20th Jan: Three on 21st Sep. Sennen Cove: Ten on 24th Jun: Four on 13th Sep. Trevose Head: Eighty-seven on 11th Jan: Thirty-two on 13th Jan: One on 17th Jan: One on 24th Jan: Five on 31 st Jan: Singles on 2nd, 30th and 31 st Jul: Singles on 6th, 10th and 11 th Aug: Two on 14th Aug: Four on 21st Aug: Seven on 24th Aug: Two on 25th Aug: Singles on 29th, 30th and 31st Aug: Two on 3rd Sep: Singles on 4th and 11th Sep: Two on 12th Sep: Six on 13th Sep: Three on 14th Sep: Seven on 19th Sep: Four on 20th Sep: Three on 22nd Sep: Four on 4th Oct: One on 6th Oct. The county mainland total increases to c. 9,810 since 1971. Four hundred and forty-two birds were recorded this year, approximately twenty-nine per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 237 70 12 6 45 178 1,321 3,180 2,717 1,615 333 96

EUROPEAN STORM-PETREL - Hydrobates pelagicus (Storm Petrel) Common summer visitor that normally remains well out to sea during daylight hours unless driven inshore by storms Inland sightings are very rare. Whilst numbers seen during daylight are relatively low the number of birds ringed during the early hours of the morning, virtually in the pitch dark, provides evidence of the number of birds "out there". Breeding pairs were recorded on The Brisons this year and one fresh egg was seen. The last evidence of breeding was found in 1997 when two old eggs were discovered, again on The Brisons. The earliest report since 1936 was on 26th March 1986 at Porthgwarra, and the latest at Newquay on 23rd December 1989. This year the earliest was on 5th May on St. Ives Island, and the latest at Mousehole on 23rd Oct. Reports include: Pendeen Watch: 170 ringed on 17th Jul: 300 on 24th Aug: Twenty-seven on 24th Aug. Porthgwarra: Thirty-eight ringed on 16th Jul: 228 ringed on 17th Jul: Forty on 22nd Aug. Rumps Point: Sixty-two ringed on 18th Jul. The Brisons: Two pairs on 8th Jun: Two calling males on 14th Jun.

28 LEACH'S STORM-PETREL - Oceanodroma leucorhoa Scarce, pelagic passage migrant that is rarely seen inland A large number of birds were seen in 1974 when 510 were reported, 400 of which were off St Ives on 24th September. The next highest year was in 1952 when the species suffered heavily in severe gales; two hundred and ten were recorded, of which twenty-seven were dead birds. Most recently, two hundred and fifty-seven were seen at Pendeen Watch and two hundred and fifty at St. Ives on 6th February 2002. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1948 ------11 1949 ------1 - - 1951 ------1 - - 1952 ------97 112 1 1953 - - - 1 ------1955 ------1 1957 ------36 - - - 1958 ------11 - - 1959 ------4 1 - 1960 ------1 - 1961 ------20 - - 1962 ------2 8 1 - 1963 - - - - 1 - 1 3 41 54 - - 1964 ------1 39 1 - - 1965 - - - 1 - - 4 5 - 1 - 1966 - - 1 - - - - - 6 1 2 1 1967 ------1 8 23 1 - 1968 ------5 - - 1970 ------2 1 29 1 - 1971 ------1 - 1 - 1973 ------7 - - - 1974 ------497 11 2 - 1975 ------2 12 - 2 - 1976 ------37 8 - - 1977 ------2 44 - 1978 ------58 26 - - 1979 ------5 - 2 - 1980 ------27 40 - - 1981 ------20 - - 1982 ------2 6 6 - 1983 - - - - 1 - - - 87 32 - - 1984 ------76 6 - - 1985 - - - - - 4 - - 36 1 1 - 1986 ------23 - - 1987 ------30 - 1 1988 2 ------82 61 - - 1989 ------8 7 4 135 1990 ------23 - - - 1991 - - - 1 - - - - 66 5 4 - 1992 ------17 19 2 - - 1993 ------22 1 1 1 1994 ------1 - - 2 1995 ------40 2 - - 1996 ------116 4 4 1997 ------7 15 6 1 - 1998 - - - - - 2 1 149 40 1 - - 1999 1 ------1 17 8 - 1

29 2000 ------7 19 - 3 2001 ------37 9 1 - 2002 - 516 ------5 - - 2003 ------7 3 - - 2004 ------2 8 - 1 Downderry: One on the sea killed by a Great Black-backed Gull on 19th Dec SCM. Mousehole: Five on 23rd Oct SMC, JDB, GSB, MKW. Pendeen Watch: One on 23rd Sep MTE. Porthgwarra: Two on 23rd Oct JDB, SMC. Rosemullion Head: One on 28th Oct PMcCa. Trevose Head: One on 13th Sep SMC. The county mainland total increases to c. 3,218 since 1948. St Ives has had the largest number of reports. The average number of birds seen during the thirty years up to and including 2000 was seventy-one per annum, but six years of high numbers have a significant impact on that average. Only eleven birds were recorded this year, one more than last year and the second lowest since 1994 when there were three. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 65 516 1 3 2 6 1 184 1,298 732 248 162

NORTHERN GANNET - Morus bassanus (Gannet) Present offshore throughout the year, and large numbers winter around our shores. This species bred on Gulland Island, until 1478 but the nearest colony is now on Grassholm Island, Pembrokeshire. Reports include: Chapel Point: 750 on 14th Mar. Newquay: 546 on 13th Sep. Pendeen Watch: 673 on 6th Oct: 6,621 on 25th Oct. Porthgwarra: 725 on 30th Jan: 682 on 30th Jun: 1,095 on 20th Jul: 640 on 29th Jul: 655 on 5th Aug: 755 on 9th Aug: 843 on 12th Aug. St. Ives Island: 599 on 21st Sep. Sennen Cove: 2,300 on 19th Mar: 12,000 on 13th Sep. Trevose Head: 770 on 31st Jan: 548 on 14th Aug: 1,182 on 19th Aug: 3,049 on 13th Sep: 3,341 on 14th Sep: 541 on 20th Sep: 579 on 4th Oct

GREAT CORMORANT - Phalacrocorax carbo (Cormorant) Resident, migrant and winter visitor This species occurs inland on reservoirs and other freshwater localities, as well as on the sea. It breeds in small numbers on all coasts and is quite mobile during the non-breeding season, appearing anywhere where food is in good supply. Reported numbers were above the level seen during the previous five years, but similar to the mid 1990's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 144 139 102 99 152 185 231 169 262 248 280 251 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal/College Res. 3 3 1 - 1 1 1 1 - 2 4 6 Camel Est 10 16 - 12 - 16 8 - 20 15 19 40 Carrick Roads 6 4 6 5 12 6 11 8 14 16 31 20

30 Colliford Res. 6 7 6 6 4 6 7 7 8 14 9 4 Crowdy Res. 3 5 2 1 3 5 8 7 6 - 2 20 Drift Res. - 4 - 1 1 1 2 12 - 3 - 2 Fowey Est. 7 2 4 - 6 8 9 4 8 15 11 20 Gerrans Bay 3 - 17 - - 6 28 22 12 10 9 5 Hayle Est. 7 8 2 5 - 2 6 4 10 19 4 4 Helford River 6 1 1 - 1 - 4 2 2 - 3 - Loe Pool 24 19 22 14 5 18 21 22 41 43 72 44 Looe Est. 6 - 1 - - 1 - 1 - - 1 - Lynher Est. 5 5 2 5 8 4 7 8 13 7 6 6 Mount's Bay - - - - 1 - 1 - 3 3 2 3 Par/St Austell Bay 2 4 3 4 3 5 3 6 8 3 2 2 Percuil River 5 4 - 3 4 12 4 3 6 6 - - Porth Res. 2 5 4 1 3 - 2 2 2 - 4 4 Porthgwarra: 1 - - 3 - - 7 1 - 22 - - Siblyback Res. 4 6 6 - - 2 2 3 1 1 1 - Stithians Res. 4 - 1 - 1 5 7 3 4 3 5 5 Tamar Est. - Lower 12 15 1 5 9 3 32 23 26 25 25 20 Tamar Est. - Upper 22 28 13 15 21 25 43 10 56 22 40 21 Tamar Lakes 2 - - - - 9 9 3 - - 9 8 Trevose Head 1 - - 15 3 3 6 10 9 - - 2 Walmsley Sane. 2 1 1 1 2 1 - - 4 - - 1 Other reports include: Coverack: Twenty-one on 17th May. Gannel Est: Eighteen on 17th Nov. Hells Mouth: Eighteen nests on 16th May. Killigerran Head: Nineteen on 26th Jun. Loe Pool: A bird of the continental form P. c. sinensis at Loe Pool on 2nd Oct. West Pentire: Twenty-one on 15th June.

EUROPEAN SHAG - Phalacrocorax aristotelis (Shag) Widespread resident that is rarely seen inland This species breeds in small colonies on all coasts. First year birds disperse widely and large "rafts" are seen at favoured feeding sites in winter. Numbers in our waters, using the size of 'rafts' in Falmouth Bay as an indicator, have reduced in recent years. Flocks of four hundred plus were seen on a number of occasions in the past, and one of six hundred and fifty was reported on 14th December 1981. The maximum count this year was of one hundred and thirty-five at Trevose Head in January and February; only thirty birds were seen in the Carrick Roads adjacent to Falmouth Bay. Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est - 2 - 15 - 9 1 - - 10 2 8 Carrick Roads - - 3 6 8 5 7 15 28 30 15 18 Gerrans Bay 7 - 8 - - 8 17 16 13 18 15 17 Killigerran Head - - - - - 66 - 60 - - - - Newquay - - - 18 - 12 12 45 10 5 14 52 Pendeen Watch ------70 - 80 - - Percuil River 4 1 - 1 3 8 7 6 4 4 - - Porthgwarra 24 44 12 5 7 15 33 19 - 54 2 - Trevose Head area 135 135 - - - - 60 85 110 - - 48 Other reports include: Armed Knight: Thirty pairs on 8th Jun.

31 Godrevy Point: Eighty-four on 28th Jul. Rumps Point: Fifty on 28th Mar. Seaton: Twenty-three on 26th Dec. St. Ives: 141 on 21st Sep. The Brisons: Eighty pairs on 26th May and ninety pairs on 8th Jun. The Sisters: Two nests on 27th Jun.

GREAT BITTERN - Botaurus stellaris (Bittern) Occasional visitor occurring mainly between October and March Altarnun: One on 17th Nov - 27th Dec AN, DN. Croft Pascoe Pool: One on 28th Dec SFE. Loe Pool: Singles on 22nd Feb and 12th Dec per GH. Marazion Marsh: Last year's bird remained until 2nd April and was presumably the bird that returned on 1st Nov to the end of the year DSF et al. Par Beach Pool: Last year's bird remained until 16th Feb and was presumably the bird that was seen on 23rd Dec RL et al. Poldhu Cove: One on 21st Feb SFE. Porth Res: One on 18th Nov APH. Westerlake Farm: One on 9th Jan RMF. The county mainland total is now c. 164 since 1930. Most records are at Marazion, and Par has also good numbers with several before 1980.

Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 56 35 10 1 - - 1 1 5 4 21 29 *one undated.

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON - Nycticorax nyctlcorax (Night Heron) Vagrant - mainly overshoots from continental Europe in spring. Boscathnoe Res: An adult on 2nd - 3rd Sep JFR et al. Mellinsey Mill, Veryan: An adult on 27th Apr - 2nd May RHoo. The mainland total is now c. 27 since 1946. Records are well spread around the county. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 8 13 2 - 1 - 2 - - - *one undated

SQUACCO HERON - Ardeola ralloides Rare vagrant. Portmellon: One on the wetland below the houses on 31st May - 4th Jun B&SO et al. The mainland total is now c. 6 since 1981. Previous records were at Polbathic on 20th April - 27th May 1981, Bude on 10th April - 23rd May 1985, Towednack on 13th - 19th May 1992, Drift Reservoir on 11th - 29th May 1994 and Lamorna Cove on 25th May2001. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 2 4 ------

32 LITTLE EGRET - Egretta garzetta Resident, passage migrant and winter visitor This species has experienced a population explosion during recent years. The aggregate of monthly totals was only three in 1984 and this year, twenty years later, it was two thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine. It bred for the first time in 1997, and annually since 1999. The running ten-year average of overall numbers has increased by more than eleven times since 1994.

Little Egrets (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1943 ------1 1 1944 1 1 ------1949 - - - - 1 ------1952 - - 1 ------1953 - - - - 1 1 ------1955 - - - 5 ------1958 - - - - 1 1 ------1959 ------1 1 - 1963 ------1 - - - - - 1965 - - - 1 ------1972 - - - 1 ------1975 - - - - 1 ------1976 - - - - 2 ------1980 ------1 1 1 1981 1 1 1 ------1 1 - 1982 ------1 1 1 - - 1983 - - - - 1 - - - - 1 - - 1984 - - - 1 - - - 1 1 - - - 1985 - - - 3 1 2 1 1 1 - - - 1986 - - - - - 1 - 1 2 - - - 1987 - - - 1 3 1 - 2 1 - - - 1988 - - - 4 4 - 1 1 - - - - 1989 - - - - - 1 2 31 13 6 4 7 1990 10 7 12 7 2 - 8 11 8 10 7 10 1991 11 11 7 5 2 - 2 34 25 24 17 24 1992 26 27 25 18 7 3 11 28 34 27 30 40 1993 46 48 33 23 11 5 19 146 159 140 99 65

33 1994 77 53 93 49 31 14 51 95 172 168 146 127 1995 88 144 97 98 27 21 56 179 252 264 222 131 1996 118 108 86 101 35 32 75 130 165 180 120 136 1997 107 80 121 91 13 34 116 173 155 136 78 107 1998 140 151 133 73 8 9 106 206 311 247 162 159 1999 124 150 182 52 35 19 151 217 291 206 118 125 2000 89 66 107 84 39 69 218 324 309 155 80 91 2001 96 144 110 73 42 49 242 291 417 364 273 129 2002 114 174 173 169 97 117 203 199 391 279 196 146 2003 136 152 205 147 111 112 189 317 363 304 200 160 2004 184 169 164 161 115 165 303 350 350 312 265 251 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 17 15 29 23 11 23 57 68 68 70 35 42 Carrick/Restronguet 10 8 6 2 3 2 4 5 35 22 13 14 Drift Res. 1 - 2 1 - - 2 3 3 8 3 4 Fowey Est. 23 28 10 30 18 17 25 10 33 30 10 33 Gannel Est. 10 3 7 3 2 6 20 9 6 11 6 6 Gerrans Bay 1 2 - - - 2 1 2 - - 4 - Harlyn Bay - 2 2 1 - - - - 1 1 - - Hayle Est. 12 16 9 13 4 3 21 17 14 22 20 3 Helford River 19 7 6 4 27 24 46 9 25 - 21 8 Looe Rivers & Est. 5 9 11 9 6 12 22 8 20 8 8 17 Lynher Est. 15 20 15 6 8 4 18 97 41 22 23 17 Maer Lake & Bude 1 2 1 2 - - - 1 1 1 - - Marazion Marsh 5 8 5 4 2 1 8 6 4 8 5 3 Par 2 2 1 3 2 1 2 4 2 2 1 2 Percuil River 7 3 3 3 4 2 4 11 8 8 21 11 Ruan Lanihorne - - 3 - - 4 - 12 - - 4 3 St. John's/Millbrook 15 12 12 9 1 - 13 27 20 22 23 17 Stone 2 4 3 4 1 6 1 6 - 4 5 8 Tamar Est. - Upper 24 11 15 7 4 8 15 29 45 44 33 31 Tresillian River 3 3 12 7 10 12 8 6 8 6 3 4 Truro River - 2 1 21 9 15 26 11 6 5 2 14 Walmsley Sane. 3 4 4 2 3 1 2 1 2 - 2 2 Whitsand Bay 5 1 1 1 - - - - 1 3 3 - Other reports include: Mount Edgcumbe: Six on 20th Nov and twelve on 1st Dec. Nests were present at four sites.

GREAT EGRET - Egretta Alba (Great White Egret) Rare but increasing vagrant. Land's End: One on 28th Jul MWa. Marazion Marsh: One on 24th Apr PAF, JH. Ruan Pool, Windmill Farm: One on 24th Apr ARP. The mainland total is now c. 13 since 1948. Previous records were at Loe Pool on 28th September - 3rd November 1948, the Lynher Estuary on 30th March 1991, Argal Reservoir on 22nd October 1996, and individuals at Nanjizal on 15th May 1998 and at Penberth on 21st October 1998, two at Hayle on 23rd September 2000, one at Drift Reservoir on 2nd - 5th April 2000, an adult at Stithians Reservoir on 21 st June 2001, on Hayle Estuary on 1 st Sep 2002 and at Porth Reservoir on 4th - 14th August 2002. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 2 1 1 1 1 4 2 - -

34 GREY HERON - Ardea cinerea Breeding resident, dispersing widely after breeding, and a passage migrant Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal/College Res. 2 2 2 - - - 1 - 1 2 1 2 Camel Est. 2 2 3 10 18 16 18 22 11 19 11 10 Carrick/Restronguet 8 4 6 - - 11 2 1 4 8 8 12 Colliford Res. 1 - - - 1 1 4 2 1 2 1 1 Crowdy Res. 5 - 10 6 6 1 20 5 4 1 - - Drift Res. 2 2 1 1 1 1 4 6 1 1 2 2 Fowey Est. 6 5 5 6 4 5 9 1 3 3 1 11 Gannel Est. - - - - 1 3 1 6 - - - 1 Hayle Est. 8 5 2 1 3 3 7 7 6 10 4 3 Helford River 13 - 12 - 28 19 16 3 3 2 11 2 Loe Pool - 4 1 2 1 - 4 5 1 6 4 3 Looe Est. 8 12 7 6 2 8 9 5 4 2 2 - Lynher Est. 10 1 32 14 14 16 2 4 5 6 9 5 Maer Lake 2 - - 1 1 1 1 3 2 1 1 - Marazion Marsh 15 15 13 8 9 4 15 18 15 6 6 8 Par Pools 1 1 2 2 3 2 2 4 1 2 3 1 Percuil River 4 5 4 4 2 3 8 2 2 2 10 10 Porth Res. 2 3 2 5 3 - 2 3 2 - 5 4 Siblyback Res. 4 2 2 - - - 2 - 1 2 - - Stithians Res. 2 - 1 - 2 - 1 1 4 - 3 - Tamar Est. - Lower 3 1 5 4 - - 12 12 5 5 17 20 Tamar Est. - Upper 31 5 6 2 7 6 18 18 7 12 15 20 Tresillian River 3 3 1 2 2 3 5 4 3 3 4 2 Truro River 2 12 11 10 18 11 22 6 2 2 2 10 Windmill Farm - - - - - 3 - - 3 1 - 1

WHITE STORK - Ciconia ciconia Vagrant and espcapee. Ladock: One on 12th Mar had previously been seen in Devon per KAW. West Penwith: Two first cal on 31st Aug - 1st Sep, from a French reintroduction scheme, moved extensively around the far west and were last seen on the Isles of Scilly PF et al. The county mainland total advances to c. 26 since 1952. The Camel Estuary has had four records of five birds, Marazion Marsh has four and St Mawgan has two. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 5 4 6 2 - 4 4 1 - -

EURASIAN SPOONBILL - Platalea leucorodia (Spoonbill) Passage migrant that occasionally over-winters Camel Est: A second cal on 7th - 10th Mar SMC. Clifton: One on 28th Aug CBt. Lynher Est: Last year's adult remained until 24th Feb LACT and returned on 12th October in the company of a first cal. Both remained until the end of the year JCN. Ruan Lanihorne: An adult on 26th - 27th Jun SMC, LW. Walmsley Sane: The Camel bird moved to the reserve on 11th Mar SMC. The county mainland total advances to c. 195 since 1935. There have been records every year since 1977, the second of two blank years. The largest group was ten that were first seen on the Camel Estuary on 2nd October 1997.

35 Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 11 5 18 11 17 16 6 6 20 50 19 15 *one undated

MUTE SWAN - Cygnus olor Breeding resident and winter visitor After a period of decline in overall numbers during the 1970's and 1980's, there was a distinct improvement in the 1990's that peaked in 1996. The improvement then tailed-off and numbers were at lower levels by 2000, but they have now returned to mid-1990's levels. Overall numbers this year were the highest of the last fourteen years and approximately fifty-two per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 339 370 294 261 234 351 315 324 277 355 426 382 Regular reports & maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal/College 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 5 9 9 5 Camel Est. 48 56 57 52 37 54 55 52 57 60 22 73 Drift Res. 77 75 55 33 37 41 49 49 48 52 58 54 Fowey Est. 2 1 - - - 6 9 6 4 5 6 12 Hayle Est. 6 3 5 8 5 3 1 1 1 3 4 5 Helford River 10 14 5 - 4 4 11 - 19 - 14 - Helston Boat Lake 2 2 2 2 5 7 7 8 7 6 6 5 Loe Pool 4 6 4 15 26 28 36 27 18 12 6 4 Looe Rivers/Est. 12 10 13 12 19 23 24 26 - 21 32 21 Lynher Est. 11 5 6 5 10 - - 7 10 14 9 10 Marazion Marsh 13 67 42 30 29 20 46 48 55 55 73 47 Millbrook Lake 16 8 6 10 - 10 10 12 - 10 2 20 Par 24 22 20 23 20 4 6 6 21 20 18 16 Percuil River - 2 - 2 4 4 4 2 4 4 10 8 Saltash/Torpoint* 26 2 32 21 - 36 18 30 - - 7 24 St. John's Lake 8 18 6 2 2 - 3 7 11 20 9 9 Swanpool 49 50 2 ------5 4 Tamar Est. - Upper 6 16 14 19 7 52 18 18 - 40 37 23 Tehidy Country Park - - - 6 6 7 6 6 11 11 13 13 Tresillian River 3 3 4 4 6 1 2 - - - - 3 Truro River 2 - - 2 5 8 1 2 1 1 1 16 * A mobile flock of non-breeding birds moves between the foreshores of the two towns. Breeding was reported at Bake Lakes, College Reservoir, East Looe River, Egoshayle, Halton Quay, Harewood, Harlyn Pools, Helston Boating Lake, Millbrook, Par Beach Pool, Pendarves Woods, Pentewan, St German's, St John's Lake, Stepper Point, Tideford, Trenance Lake and Walmsley Sanctuary. Carrick Roads: Thirty-two on 14th Nov. Restronguet Creek: Twenty-four on 14th Nov.

TUNDRA SWAN - Cygnus columbianus (Bewick's Swan) Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor There is no pattern to the records. It was annual from 1959 to 1999 but there were none in the three years to 2002 and numbers varied between twenty-three and one during the previous twenty-two years. Siblyback Res: Two on 11th Dec.

36 The county mainland total increases to c. 406 since 1949. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 112 28 26 8 - - - - - 22 125 85

WHOOPER SWAN - Cygnus cygnus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor There is no pattern to the records since 1968, with numbers varying between none and thirty-two per annum and with no increasing or decreasing trends. This year's total was slightly above the average of the previous ten years, and that ten-year average was approximately one hundred and seventy-five per cent higher than that for the previous ten years. Burniere Point, Camel: An adult on 7th - 8th Jan. Drift Res: Two adults on 30th Oct: Four on 27th Nov. Land's End: Four on 24th Sep: Two adults and two first cal on 26th and 29th Nov. Marazion Beach: A first cal on 9th Oct. Newbridge, Penzance: Two adults and two first cal on 31st Dec. Trevorian: One on 3rd Jan. Walmsley Sane: One on 25th Jan: One on 7th Feb: An adult on 1st - 29th Mar: One on 8th - 29th Dec. Windmill Farm: Two on 30th Oct. The county mainland total advances to c. 548 since 1930. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 111 24 15 2 1 - - - 6 154 136 99

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE - Anser brachyrhynchus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor Bogee, Rumford: One on 10th Oct SMC. Colliford Res/Dozmary Pool: One on 25th Jan - 28th Feb SMC: One on 10th Mar - 10th Apr SMC One on 6th Nov SMC. St. Columb Minor: One on 10th Oct SMC. St. Levan: Six on 13th - 14th Oct MTE, IMcK. Trevose Head: One on 8th Oct SMC. The county mainland total increases to c. 92 since 1930. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 4 2 1 - 1 - - - 28 42 5 9

GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE - Anser albifrons (White-fronted Goose) Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Cornwall receives visits from both the Eurasian race A. a. albifrons and the Greenland race A. a. flavirostris. Numbers fluctuate from year to year and this was a poor year with possibly only two albifrons and nine flavirostris. Kingsmill Lake: One on 17th Oct. Lynher Est: One on 13th Oct. Millbrook Lake: One on 12th Oct. Siblyback Res: One on 16th Jan.

37 Approximate monthly totals - Eurasian albifrons race: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 ------1 -

Colliford Res: One on 18th Jun - 27th Jul. Looe Est: One on 22nd Aug. St. Levan: One on 14th Oct. Walmsley Sane: Six on 2nd and 22nd Jan. Approximate monthly totals - Greenland flavirostris race: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1 6

GREYLAG GOOSE - Anser Anser Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor, but many records undoubtedly relate to feral birds Whilst feral birds are breeding widely and in increasing numbers in many parts of England, this has not yet happened in the county. Many old records relate to a small number of feral birds moving around the county, making it difficult to identify genuinely wild birds, and Canada Goose and Greylag Goose (Kester Wilson) the same situation continues today. Reports include: Camel Est: Two on 20th Jul and 30th Jul - 11th Aug: Three on 15th Aug - 3rd Sep: Two on 12th Sep. Colliford Res: Four on 25th Jan: Two on 20th - 28th Feb: Two on 18th Jun - 27th July: Two on 1st — 18th Jul. Crowdy Res: Two on 16th Sep - 2nd Oct. Ruan Lanihorne: Two on 22nd Nov and 3rd Dec. Walmsley Sane: Two on 1st - 29th Jan.

CANADA GOOSE - Branta canadensis Breeding resident with some dispersal This species has undergone a population explosion but, for the first time for at least twenty-five years, overall numbers reported showed a reduction last year. The high count at Colliford was two hundred and eighty-four less than last year's record level. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,386 1,002 424 222 700 1,807 2,083 2,357 1,489 1,779 2,236 1,922 Regular reports & maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bake Lakes 6 9 32 68 29 6 47 - - 2 6 6 Camel Est. 20 60 50 33 29 17 175 492 512 5 - 2 College Res 15 16 8 1 - - - - - 13 13 13 Colliford /Dozmary 513 510 101 24 493 1,605 1,482 48 10 365 654 610 Crowdy Res. 68 42 8 8 7 135 161 210 237 251 148 105 Drift Res. 5 6 6 4 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Lynher Est. 185 130 15 - 3 - 35 110 200 272 320 100 Maer Lake/Bude 42 18 6 ------265 67 147 Millbrook/St. John's 33 24 13 6 20 6 54 57 43 80 320 60

38 Park Clay Pit 45 - 12 7 - - - - 188 270 Ruan Lanihorne - - 8 - - - 146 - - 153 166 Siblyback Res. 152 132 71 - 30 11 86 134 8 165 257 320 Stithians Res. 10 2 4 - 3 3 5 5 - 10 - - Tamar Lakes 60 - - - - - 7 999 - - 5 17 Upper Tamar Est. 180 43 13 10 16 8 7 56 169 75 - Winnard's Perch - - 4 - 39 - 42 305 33 - - Breeding reported at Bocconoc House, Breney Common, Cargreen, Clapper Ponds, Colliford Reservoir, Crowdy Reservoir, Goss Moor, Halton Quay, Hawkstor Clay Pit, Helman Tor, Mount Edgcumbe, Oakside Fishery, St John's Lake, Steps Pond, Stithians Reservoir, Truro River, Walmsley Sanctuary and Winnard's Perch. There were many reports of hybrid geese.

BARNACLE GOOSE - Branta leucopsis Uncommon drift migrant, winter visitor and feral escapee Many old records relate to a small number of feral birds moving around the county, making it difficult to identify genuinely wild birds, and the same situation continues today. There is a free-flying flock at Newquay Zoo that may be responsible for some of the reports. Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 11 11 2 1 1 - 1 1 1 - - - Colliford/Dozmary 11 11 2 3 11 10 10 - - 6 2 7 Park Clay Pit ------3 6 5 Siblyback Res. 7 1 2 - - - - 2 - - - 2 Other reports include: Chyuerton: Two on 25th Jan, 22nd Feb and 21st Mar. Egoshayle: Two on 8th Jan - 3rd Apr. Millbrook Lake: One on 2nd Jan - 8th Feb. Nanjizal: Two on 8th Apr. Retallack: Two on 13th - 29th Mar. Winnard's Perch: One on 12th Sep.

BRENT GOOSE - Branta bernicla Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Both dark-bellied B.b.bernicla (Western Siberia) and pale-bellied B.b.hrota (Arctic Canada and Greenland) races occur. Numbers vary considerably from year to year, particularly for the pale race. No regular flocks visit the county on an annual basis. Birds of Pale - bellied B. b. hrota race: Camel Est: One on 30th Sep: Six on 8th Nov. Pale-bellied Brent Goose (Kester Wilson) Fowey Est: Three on 1st Sep. Hayle Est: One on 20th - 30th Oct: One on 5th Nov. Marazion Beach: One on 26th Sep. Porthgwarra: One on 9th Oct. St. John's Lake: Four on 3rd Nov - 31st Dec. Approximate monthly totals of Pale-bellied: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------5 2 11 4

39 Birds of Dark-bellied B. b. bernicla race: Camel Est: Five on 12th and 20th Dec. Gannel Est: Two on 16th Dec: One on 30th Dec. Hayle Est: One on 12th Oct: Two on 29th Oct: One on 30th Oct: Sixteen on 6th Dec: Two on 12th Dec: Sixteen on 15th - 16th Dec: Twelve on 23rd Dec: Eight on 24th Dec: Four on 29th Dec. Land's End: One on 12th Oct. Maer Lake: Singles on 28th Apr and 21st Nov. Nanjizal: An adult on 5th Nov. Par Beach: Singles on 4th Apr and 3rd Oct. Seaton: Ten on 21st Sep. St. Ives Island: One on 30th Oct. St. John's Lake: Ten on 22nd Sep - 4th Oct: Five on 11th Oct - 14th Nov: Six on 15th Nov: Seven on 19th Nov - 5th Dec: Eight on 20th - 31st Dec. Approximate monthly totals of Dark-bellied: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 2 - - - - 20 15 9 31

COMMON SHELDUCK - Tadorna tadorna (Shelduck) Resident that breeds in low numbers on most of the main estuaries, passage migrant and winter visitor This species is a common sight on most estuaries, with numbers normally increasing around the start of the year. After the breeding season the majority of birds move to regular moulting grounds, returning at the end of October. The nearest moulting site is Bridgwater Bay in Somerset. Overall numbers reduced during the early 1990's to a low in 1995 and then made a recovery in the years to 1999. The first two years of the twenty-first century were again low, with some recovery in 2002 and 2003. Similar levels were maintained this year but are still below the levels seen in the late 1990's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,297 1,019 904 570 451 420 149 118 51 196 645 850 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 91 151 142 92 60 57 32 5 26 3 48 92 Fowey Est. 38 50 35 44 32 20 22 3 - - 16 26 Hayle Est. 72 68 107 53 34 32 14 1 - 15 21 28 Helford River 54 54 23 - 12 4 3 - - - 20 - Looe Rivers/Est. 2 4 5 7 9 5 2 - - - - - Lynher Est. 197 182 158 115 70 39 32 - 5 79 191 155 Percuil River 61 42 43 43 28 14 12 81 12 12 12 15 Restronguet Creek 4 24 46 ------4 - 24 Ruan Lanihorne 20 33 65 - - 68 - 1 - - 13 6 St John's/Millbrook 326 143 100 62 48 12 7 1 5 5 110 207 Tresillian River 80 39 61 27 36 16 1 - - 9 37 53 Truro River 157 69 64 33 24 31 - - - 10 30 53 Upper Tamar Est. 180 148 47 65 82 120 24 26 - 57 140 191 Breeding was reported at the Camel Estuary, Ruan Lanihorne and Tresemple Pool.

EURASIAN WIGEON - Anas penelope (Wigeon) Winter visitor and passage migrant that occurs in very large numbers in cold weather Although flocks of between two and five thousand birds were seen on the Lynher Estuary between 1977 and 1982, the average size of the largest flocks in the 1990's was only seven hundred and fifty-seven. There was also a reduction on the Camel Estuary but, conversely, there was an increase in the average

40 size of the largest flocks on the Hayle Estuary. The average largest flock size on Stithians Reservoir in the 1990's was two hundred and eighty-four, but it has only averaged one hundred and six for the last five years. Overall numbers were higher this year, continuing the increase over the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3,745 2,381 1,353 70 28 - - 75 243 1,841 3,541 3,387 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel/Walmsley 550 515 359 65 2 - - - 29 205 335 207 Colliford /Dozmary 5 3 ------7 26 116 Crowdy Res 24 4 ------4 16 24 35 Drift Res. 6 ------31 20 8 Gannel Est. 128 121 ------16 45 92 Hayle Est. 1,400 796 843 3 25 - - 75 130 1,000 2,100 1,688 Kingsmill Lake 46 170 3 - - - - - 9 90 240 122 Loe Pool 94 110 ------8 36 135 130 Lynher Est. 236 188 37 - - - - - 45 260 132 200 Maer Lake 161 171 42 - - - - - 3 18 56 48 Mawgan Porth 120 72 12 ------2 5 68 Ruan Lanihorne 220 150 ------St. John's Lake 500 - 30 ------35 200 300 Siblyback Res. 9 15 1 ------8 1 3 Stithians Res. 145 ------5 9 62 101 Truro River 40 45 ------36 35 74 Other reports include: College Res: Seventy-eight on 11th Dec. Restronguet Creek: Sixty-two on 14th Nov and sixty-six on 12th Dec.

AMERICAN WIGEON - Anas americana Regular vagrant Crowdy Res: A drake on 10th - 25th Jan SMC. Hayle Est: Last year's drake to 29th Mar and presumably the same returning bird on 15th Dec to the end of the year LPW. The county mainland total remains at c. 19 since 1981. There have been ten records at Hayle, four of them in 1981 when this species was first recorded in the county. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - - 1 1 - - - 6 4 5 1

GADWALL - Anas strepera Winter visitor and passage migrant The species has become more regular since 1980 but numbers fluctuate widely from year to year depending on the severity of winter weather. Recorded numbers were high in 1996 and 1997 numbers but steadily reduced to reach a low point in 2000. There was then an increase for the next two years but numbers dipped again this year when overall numbers were approximately twenty-five per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Gadwall (Kester Wilson)

41 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 60 21 8 4 2 - - 1 17 20 15 30 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Drift Res. 20 ------1 - - - - Harlyn Bay 4 3 6 ------5 5 Hayle Est. 20 2 ------2 Loe Pool 6 12 - 2 - - - - 17 4 7 4 Marazion Marsh 4 - - 2 2 - - - - 2 1 7

EURASIAN TEAL - Anas crecca (Teal) Abundant winter visitor and passage migrant Breeding has been confirmed only sporadically since 1975. The average size of the largest flocks has increased at most sites during the last twenty years. Maer Lake has seen numbers increase three to fourfold, presumably owing to the improving habitat, although fewer birds have been present during the last two years. Overall numbers in the county were similar to the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2,358 1,728 661 166 24 2 12 153 509 1,411 1,919 2,848 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Colliford /Dozmary 83 200 4 3 2 - 1 14 15 57 122 205 Crowdy Res. 101 23 - 11 2 - 6 6 22 125 290 420 Drift Res. 35 3 3 - - - - 8 43 90 21 14 Halton Quay, Tamar 104 93 80 - - - - - 8 25 58 88 Harlyn Bay 65 2 55 15 1 - - - - 5 1 7 Hayle Est. 300 61 2 6 - - - 38 142 455 508 250 Kingsmill Lake 40 50 12 21 - - - - - 36 140 64 Loe Pool 75 24 18 18 - - - - 51 77 Lynher Est. 215 78 59 6 - - - 2 - 9 45 93 Maer Lake 315 209 135 12 1 - 2 42 128 207 95 111 Marazion Marsh 93 90 44 35 - - - - 39 30 75 149 Mawgan Porth 180 114 35 2 - - - - - 47 - 113 Millbrook/St. John's 28 76 36 - - - - - 46 15 Restronguet/Devoran 8 60 ------70 70 220 Siblyback Res. 25 35 31 - - - - - 4 5 4 - Stithians Res. 83 28 - - - - - 3 - 4 47 175 Truro River 56 45 35 - - - - - 11 5 6 41 Walmsley Sane. 450 420 82 26 18 2 3 7 25 122 320 670 Windmill Farm 9 6 6 5 - - - - - 39 8 8 Other reports include: Skewjack: Seventy on 5th Feb.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL - Anas carolinensis Regular vagrant Hayle Est: Last year's drake to 7th Jan and presumably the same returning male on 14th Oct to the end of the year DSF, BSW. Maer Lake: One on 20th Aug GPS. Marazion Marsh: One on 28th Nov - 1st Dec FJH, DSF.

42 Porthpean: One on 4th Apr RL. Stithians Res: One on 23rd - 24th Dec ARP, BSW. The county mainland total is c. 48 since 1962. There have been six records on Hayle Estuary, five at Stithians Reservoir and four each on the Lynher Estuary, Marazion Marsh and Colliford Reservoir. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 9 4 5 3 1 - - 1 - 4 10 11

MALLARD - Anas platyrhynchos Abundant resident with release for wildfowling purposes at many sites Based upon largest flock sizes at the main sites, numbers appeared to be at their highest in the 1980's. The Lynher Estuary had its largest flock of three hundred and thirty in January 1981; the Tamar Estuary had four hundred in December 1985, Crowdy Reservoir had four hundred in August 1980 and Colliford Reservoir had four hundred and five in December 1985. Flocks at all four of those sites were significantly below those levels this year. Nevertheless, overall numbers in 2004 were approximately twenty-two per cent above the average of the previous ten years, a factor being that numbers recorded in June, July, August and December were the highest of the past thirteen years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,687 936 666 510 398 739 1,106 1,459 1,210 1,643 1,604 1,763 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 70 47 3 19 - 22 15 65 32 55 46 35 Colliford /Dozmary 45 37 24 5 14 45 84 55 75 69 57 60 Crowdy Res. 42 16 - 2 4 22 16 38 54 56 68 65 Drift Res. 24 15 22 15 18 22 51 47 33 36 44 26 Fowey Est. 89 10 24 12 32 27 51 30 89 170 124 94 Hayle Est. - - 2 - 27 - 10 29 2 31 - 3 Helford River 26 12 7 - 7 6 - 29 17 22 57 _ Helston Boat Lake 64 64 52 40 22 45 64 62 28 52 18 32 Loe Pool 90 102 74 81 44 84 102 161 240 108 38 114 Looe/Hannafore 55 35 30 30 23 11 80 24 - 42 99 105 Lynher Est. 74 14 15 4 11 15 2 8 64 84 113 169 Maer Lake 27 18 16 6 12 7 18 27 29 34 - 4 Marazion Marsh 61 50 14 37 11 11 26 32 17 70 25 25 Mawgan Porth 21 16 ------42 - 18 Par 60 48 53 40 38 80 100 100 110 54 66 72 Percuil River 4 8 4 4 6 2 24 38 4 4 27 25 Porth Res. 214 36 18 16 28 - 36 145 30 - 133 240 St. John's Lake 65 39 25 43 13 41 56 53 - 45 40 46 Siblyback Res. 52 50 50 - - 45 84 55 75 69 57 60 Stithians Res 46 14 - - 7 - 42 25 59 32 10 21 Stone 44 38 30 17 12 19 28 52 41 36 34 22 Swanpool 70 91 77 - - - - - 51 62 79 86 Tehidy Country Park - - - 20 19 44 43 69 85 70 82 89 Tresillian River 20 2 5 3 5 19 1 79 27 46 2 26 Truro River 6 23 15 4 - 1 - - - 16 10 7 Upper Tamar Est. 184 61 45 14 22 22 68 138 - 97 119 184 Walmsley Sane. 145 55 26 25 - 73 49 86 37 115 130 - Windmill Farm 20 11 9 5 9 9 - 3 4 4 7 53 Other reports include: Restronguet Creek: Sixty on 17th Oct and 14th Nov.

43 AMERICAN BLACK DUCK - Anas rubripes Rare vagrant College Res: One on 18th Jun - 18th Jul SMC and presumably the same on 27th Dec SMC. The mainland total is now c. 9 since 1984. Previous records are of one at Crowdy Reservoir in 1984, two at Walmsley Sanctuary and one at Stithians Reservoir in 1998, two at Colliford Reservoir and one at Hannafore in 1999, and one at Loe Pool in 2000. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - - - - 1 - 1 1 2 1 2

(Apparent) AMERICAN BLACK DUCK X MALLARD HYBRID Crowdy Res: A female on 20th Sep - 28th Nov SMC, LW: Two drake types on 14th Oct- 28th Nov SMC.

NORTHERN PINTAIL - Anas acuta (Pintail) Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant Overall numbers increased between 1992 and 1996/1997 but had reduced significantly by 2001/2. They then started to increase and there was a further increase this year, but recorded numbers are still below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 22 23 3 2 - - - 1 9 41 20 34 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel/Walmsley 1 2 2 - - - - - 1 8 12 18 Crowdy Res. ------4 2 - 1 Loe Pool 8 8 ------2 - - - Lynher Est. 8 11 ------5 6 12 Other reports include: Drift Res: Four on 17th Oct. Hayle Kimbro: Ten on 29th Oct. Windmill Farm: Three on 10th Oct.

GARGANEY - Anas querquedula Scarce passage migrant that has bred on at last six occasions, including three successive years from 1981 to 1983 Numbers averaged nineteen per annum in the 1970's, fifteen in the 1980's, twenty-one in the 1990's and thirty-five during the last five years. Numbers this year were well above the average of the previous ten years. Historically, the earliest bird since 1935 was at Hayle Kimbro Pool on 17th March 1982, and the latest at Clowance Pool on 28th December 1973. This year the earliest bird was at Walmsley Sanctuary on 3rd March, the earliest ever, and the latest on 27th Oct at Marazion Marsh. Camel Est: One on 18th Aug. Clapper Pools: Four males on 17th Apr. College Res: A first cal on 18th Sep. Downderry: Nine on 1st Aug. Drift Res: A male on 27th Apr. Harlyn Bay: A male on 1 st Apr.

44 Maer Lake: One on 17th Oct. Marazion Beach: Two on 26th and one on 27th Mar. Marazion Marsh: Three on 27th Mar were different to the Beach bird: Two on 28th Mar: Four on 1st - 12th Apr with three on 13th and two to 15th Apr: Four on 26th - 27th Apr, then five to 30th Apr: One on 27th - 29th Oct. Nanjizal: A male on 27th - 28th Mar: A pair on 17th Apr. Sladesbridge: A male on 19th Apr. Walmsley Sane: A male on 3rd - 14th Mar: A male on 3rd Apr: One on 25th Apr: A male on 11th — 20th May. The county mainland total is now c. 1,108 since 1930. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 2 300 305 146 20 48 172 76 32 3 4

NORTHERN SHOVELER -Anas clypeata (Shoveler) Winter visitor and scarce passage migrant This species bred at Walmsley Sanctuary in 2000. Numbers were at a high level during the winters of 1995/6 and 1996/7, but had reduced by as much as seventy per cent by the year 2000. However, records of flock sizes at some of the regular sites indicate that this is not an abnormal situation as numbers have fluctuated significantly in the past. Overall numbers this year were a little higher than the average of the last ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 78 48 62 12 3 1 17 5 23 39 55 74 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bake Lakes 4 4 4 - - - - - 1 1 1 1 Camel Est. 23 ------1 5 20 - 1 Colliford/Dozmary - 3 - - - - 4 1 - - - . - Hayle Kimbro - - 16 ------8 - - Loe Pool 23 10 2 - - - 9 - 10 3 13 36 Marazion Marsh 2 2 - 2 - - - - - 5 5 3 Walmsley Sane. 22 29 40 10 2 - - - 1 - 8 17 Windmill Farm ------25 9

COMMON POCHARD - Aythya ferina (Pochard) Winter visitor and passage migrant Although overall numbers fluctuated from year to year, fluctuations were generally small in the 1990's. However, Common Pochard (Kester Wilson) numbers fell considerably in 2000 and have continued at low levels since then. Overall numbers this year are approximately thirty-seven per cent below the average of the last ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 172 128 66 8 3 - 1 - - 74 129 202

45 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bake Lakes 8 9 1 ------3 11 College Res. ------4 3 27 Colliford/Dozmary 23 20 17 ------5 25 18 Drift Res. 5 1 ------7 5 - Loe Pool 122 84 44 4 2 - - - - 43 53 94 Marazion Marsh 7 5 4 4 1 - 1 - - 7 3 2 Park Clay Pit ------24 21 Stithians Res. 2 1 ------6 2 3

RING-NECKED DUCK - Aythya collaris Regular vagrant Drift Res: A female on 7th - 28th Nov SMC, BMP et al. Porth Res: A first cal on 9th Nov - 31st Dec SMC et al. The mainland total is now c. 53 since 1979. There have been six records at Loe Pool and Drift Reservoir, twelve at Stithians Reservoir (six of which were present on 15th October 1979) four at Dozmary Pool and two at Colliford Reservoir. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 12 1 2 8 - 1 - 2 4 14 5 4

FERRUGINOUS DUCK - Aythya nyroca Very rare vagrant Long Rock Pool: A first cal on 14th Nov MKA, CMa, AM. The mainland total is now c 7 since 1952. Previous records were at Tamar Lakes in 1952, Luxulyan in 1954, Loe Pool in 1955, Tamar Lakes in 1957, College Reservoir in 1979 and at Drift Reservoir in 1984/5. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 1 1 1 ------1 1

TUFTED DUCK - Aythya fuligula Mainly a winter visitor but occasionally breeds Overall numbers fluctuate from year to year with no apparent trend. This year there were less birds than last year but still above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 475 432 225 117 26 35 82 100 131 172 279 346 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal/College Res. - 13 12 ------6 36 Bake Lakes 22 18 15 14 15 12 14 - 5 13 20 10 Colliford/Dozmary 20 40 23 26 6 3 31 18 6 17 33 26 Crowdy Res 2 - - - - 1 - 2 4 20 - - Drift Res. 82 77 17 2 - - - 32 - 12 31 38 Helston Boat Lake 35 32 - 22 4 8 8 8 6 42 25 35 Loe Pool 97 70 48 35 - 6 8 20 82 40 93 79 Par Pools 11 12 10 2 1 3 2 2 1 4 6 7

46 St Andrew's Pool 8 10 12 4 ------2 1 Siblyback Res. 25 21 12 8 - - 4 3 9 5 - 9 Stithians Res. 31 - 44 - - - - 15 15 - - - Swanpool 114 127 26 - - - - 3 18 35 66

GREATER SCAUP - Aythya marila (Scaup) Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Records over the past twenty-five years indicate that numbers follow no particular pattern, fluctuating from year to year with occasional large numbers being seen e.g. one hundred and one in January 1985 and sixty-one in January 1997. Numbers this year were the lowest since 1995 and approximately thirty per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 15 8 5 4 - - - - 2 - 3 8 Camel Est: Two on 21st Jan. Drift Res: Recorded intermittently 3rd Jan - 18th Apr with maximum four in Jan: One on 3rd - 26th Nov. Loe Pool: Recorded intermittently 8th Jan - 11th Apr with maximum six on 9th Jan: A female on 23rd Sep: Singles on 15th Nov and 1st Dec: two on 23rd - 31st Dec. Lynher Est: Two on 2nd Dec. Millbrook Lake: Two on 1st Jan then one for the remainder of the year. Par Beach Pool: One on 7th Jan - 26th Feb: One on 1st - 2nd Sep: Four on 3rd Dec. Porth Res: One on 21st - 22nd Mar. St Andrews Pool: One on 4th and 14th Jan. Stithians Res: One on 7th Feb.

COMMON EIDER - Somateria mollissima (Eider) Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, and a few remain in summer Records for the past twenty years indicate that numbers follow no particular pattern, but there were good years, as in 1994 and 1996. Numbers this year were the lowest since 1999 and approximately forty per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 6 13 7 2 3 - - 1 3 9 17 7 Camel Est: Three on 13th and 17th Nov: One on 7th - 30th Dec. Carbis Bay: A pair on 23rd Mar. Canick Roads: Three on 9th, 14th and 22nd Feb and 21st Mar: One on 22nd Nov Two on 10th Dec. Godrevy Point: Two on 17th and 26th - 27th Jan: Two on 1st and 29th Mar: One on 3rd May: One on 13th Nov. Gorran Haven: Two on 2nd Sep. Hannafore: One on 21st Oct - 5th Nov. Helford River: One on 1 st and 19th Jan. Limmicks: One on 28th Aug - 10th Oct. Lizard Point: Two on 26th Feb. Looe: Singles on 9th Feb, 9th May and 29th Oct - 6th Nov. Mount's Bay: Singles on 3rd and 24th Jan: Two on 9th Apr: Five on 10th Nov. Porthgwarra: One on 8th Jan. St. Austell Bay: Seven on 25th - 26th Feb: Four on 20th Oct: Three on 9th Nov: One on 10th - 11th Nov and two on 12th - 23rd Nov. Singles on 29th Nov and 2nd Dec. Two on 3rd Dec. One on 4th and 7th Dec.

47 St Ives Bay: Singles on 16th Jan, 26th Nov and 12th and 23rd Dec. St. John's Lake: One on 13th Oct - 31st Dec. Seaton: One on 29th May. Sennen Cove: Seven on 28th Oct.

LONG-TAILED DUCK - Clangula hyemalis Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor that is occasionally encountered on freshwater sites Chapel Point, St Austell Bay: One on 29th Oct. Gannel Est: One on 28th Jul. Gerran's Bay: One on 14th Nov. Loe Pool: Singles on 29th Oct, 15th Nov, 29th Nov, 1st Dec, 14th Dec, 25th and 28th Dec. Mount's Bay: One on 23rd and 30th Oct. Par Bay, St Austell Bay: One on 9th Nov. Porthpean, St Austell Bay: One on 21st - 23rd Dec. Portscatho: One on 8th Nov. Rumps Point: One on 21 st Sep and 15th Oct. Sennen Cove: One on 19th - 29th Oct: One on 1st Dec. The county mainland total is c. 525 since 1932. Numbers were about average for recent years Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 59 47 80 18 5 3 2 1 3 61 129 117

BLACK SCOTER - Melanitta nigra (Common Scoter) Winter visitor, passage migrant and some summer There have been significant fluctuations in historic numbers caused by periodic visits of large flocks to our shores e.g. three hundred and sixty-seven were seen off Rame in July 1994, and four hundred and ten off Pendeen in November 1998. Overall numbers this year were near the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 62 23 137 95 90 132 186 192 99 276 159 152 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Gerrans Bay 2 5 2 2 6 12 8 7 - 5 13 11 Gorran Haven - - 18 4 - 23 46 8 13 92 - - Mount's Bay - - 3 1 - 4 - 3 - 30 35 60 Pendeen 4 ------17 3 17 - - Porthgwarra 3 - 46 53 - 59 28 117 - 11 2 5 St. Austell Bay 20 9 11 5 8 - - - 55 15 90 45 St. Ives Bay - - 13 - 1 - - - 7 - - 2 Trevose Head 22 4 42 10 - - 55 29 12 22 - 1 Whitsand Bay ------30 11 - 55 - - Other reports include: Chynhalls Point: Fifteen on 1st Apr. Killigerran Head: Thirty-four on 22nd Jun. Lizard Point: Seventy on 10th May. Pentire Point: Nineteen on 18th Jul. Tregonhawke: Twenty-four on 2nd Dec.

48 SURF SCOTER - Melanitta perspicillata Rare vagrant Loe Beach, Feock: Last year's female to 12th Apr SMC, BSW. The county mainland remains c. 13 since 1980. St Austell Bay has had three records, and St Ives Bay and Loe Pool (Helston) have had two records. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1 2 1 - - - - 5 1 1

VELVET SCOTER - Melanitta fusca Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor There were records every year between 1968 and 1999. Annual records fluctuated between one and twenty-seven, with an average of less than ten per annum. Higher numbers have generally been seen since 1996 but, after two years of high numbers, this year's total was the lowest since 1999 and less than half of the average of the previous ten years. Camel Est: Two on 24th Dec to the end of the year SMC. Gerran's Bay: One on 22nd Feb RL. Lizard Point: Two on 16th Apr AM. Porthpean: One on 22nd Nov RL. St. Ives: A female on 3rd Dec FJH. The county mainland total advances to c. 463 since 1943. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 69 61 33 19 2 - - 1 1 51 114 112

Velvet Scoter and Common Guillemots (Kester Wilson)

COMMON GOLDENEYE - Bucephala clangula (Goldeneye) I Mainly a winter visitor but also a passage migrant Records of maximum flock sizes on the Carrick Roads show that larger numbers were seen at that site during the late 1970's. Overall numbers were high in 1997 and 1998, but have since reduced and this year were approximately twenty-six per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 47 32 25 9 1 - - - - 6 36 35

49 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal Res. 3 2 3 ------6 3 Camel Est. 4 4 5 ------Carrick Roads 6 5 6 ------7 1 Colliford /Dozmary 5 6 3 3 - - - - - 1 5 2 Crowdy Res. 1 3 4 3 ------1 1 Loe Pool 8 3 1 1 - - - - - 2 5 6 Marazion - - 1 2 - - - - - 1 2 5 Stithians Res. 8 2 ------3 3

SMEW - Mergellus albellus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant There were no reports this year. The county mainland total remains at c. 343 since 1938. The records for the last twenty-five years show no particular pattern with numbers as high as twenty-eight in 1985 but with none during several years. There have been occasional small influxes (as in 1987, 1991 and 1997) but, otherwise, numbers tend to be small. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 168 81 27 2 2 1 - - - 2 15 45

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER - Mergus serrator Winter visitor and uncommon passage migrant that is rarely seen inland The majority of birds occurring in the county are found in the Carrick Roads where they gather to roost off Turnaware Point. The maximum flock size in the Carrick Roads was eighty-two in the late 1970's but then reduced to lower levels: The flock size increased again in the 1990's and was in excess of eighty from 1997 to 2000. The county as a whole has also seen a steady increase in numbers during recent years. There was a drop in overall numbers this year by comparison by last year's high counts but, nevertheless, they were only a little below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 126 126 62 4 - - - - 1 2 75 72 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 5 ------1 - 2 - Carrick Roads 71 54 25 ------42 38 Lynher Est. 8 7 10 ------7 7 Millbrook/St. Johns 7 19 9 2 - - - - - 1 19 7 Percuil River 12 18 5 ------9 Upper Tamar Est. 8 6 5 ------5 8

GOOSANDER - Mergus merganser Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant After being stable for the previous seven years, there was a significant increase between 1993 and 1999. Numbers then reverted to previous levels and have remained at low or lower levels since; they have been very similar for the last three years. Overall numbers this year were approximately half the average of the previous ten years.

50 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 22 19 7 ------1 8 9 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Lower Tamar Lake 11 10 6 ------6 Other reports include: Loe Pool: Five on 15th and 22nd Feb.

RUDDY DUCK - Oxyura jamaicensis Scarce winter visitor The first county record was at Stithians Reservoir where a female was present from 16th to 29th January 1977. Birds have been seen every year since, with the exception of 1993. Bake Lakes: One of last year's birds on 1st - 10th Jan. Dozmary Pool: One on 15th - 17th Jan: Two on 18th Jan - 11th Feb: Three on 12th Feb - 12th Apr: Two on 13th Apr - 6th May: One on 30th May: Two on 16th - 17th Oct. Drift Res: One on 17th Jan - 22nd Feb: One on 18th Aug: Two on 29th Nov: One on 2nd Dec: Two on 28th-31st Dec. Loe Pool: Two on 15th Nov and one on 16th Nov: A female on 29th Nov: Two first cal on 1st Dec: One on 19th Dec. Siblyback Res: One on 16th Oct. St. John's Lake: One on 1st Jan. Stithians Res: One on 9th Jan. The county mainland total is now c. 184 since 1977. There have now been nine records at Dozmary Pool, seventeen at Drift Reservoir, forty-seven at Loe Pool, fifteen at Siblyback Reservoir and twenty- five at Stithians Reservoir. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 51 20 2 - 1 - 2 1 31 28 28 20

EUROPEAN HONEY-BUZZARD - Pernis apivorus (Honey Buzzard) Rare passage migrant Adam's Hill, St Buryan: One on 5th Sep JL, DSF. Sancreed: An adult male on 5th Sep DSF. The county mainland total advances to c. 15 since 2000. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec [ - - - - 1 - 1 1 7 5 - -

RED KITE - Milvus milvus Passage migrant and winter visitor Records are increasing as the result of reintroduction schemes. Brew, Sennen: One on 16th May MWa. Cam Brea, St Just: One on 21 st May CMo. Gunnislake: One on 29th May HW. Harewood: One on 21st May JH. Henna Cliff: One on 25th Jun J&DC.

51 Hustyn: Two on 21st May SMC, LW, L&DF. Land's End: One on 6th Mar MWa: One on 8th Mar with a white wing tag MWa. Little Kelynack: One on 20th May CMo: Three on 22nd May CMo. Millbrook: One on 11th Sep AMi. Polgigga: One on 16th May MWa. Polperro: One on 14th Jun BCa. Sancreed: One on 24th Apr PStP. Sennen: Four on 22nd May SMC, LW. Sithney: Two on 15th May LPW: One on 20th May LPW. Windmill Farm: One on 25th Apr ARP. 2003: Polhawn: One on 30th May RSm. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 2 2 20 2 - - 1 - - The county mainland total is now c. 236 since 1966. There were thirty-one records this year, following on from last year's exceptional passage of sixty-eight birds, whereas there was an average of only five birds per annum during the 1990's. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 6 22 14 85 29 5 2 11 28 14 10

EURASIAN MARSH HARRIER - Circus aeruginosus (Marsh Harrier) Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Goss Moor: One on 28th Nov SMC, LW: One on 27th - 31st Dec DMY. Land's End: One on 1st Aug MWa. Marazion Marsh: Singles on 10th Sep and 11th Oct DSF. Military Road: One on 11th - 15th Aug AECA, BT: One on 17th Oct per AECA. Nanjizal: A second cal on 29th Apr KAW: A first cal on 8th Sep KAW: A first cal on 11th Sep MWa. Skewjack: One on 21st May MWa. Tregonetha: One on 19th Nov SMC. Tregonetha Downs: One on 23rd Nov JMT. Wadebridge: Singles on 9th Jun and 14th Sep SMC. Walmsley Sane: A second cal female on 28th - 31st Apr CS, SMC, LW: An adult and a second cal on 1st May SMC, HK. The county mainland total advances to c. 268 since 1930. Numbers have increased in recent years with an average of seventeen during the last ten years, whereas there was an average of four during the previous twenty years with no year having more than eight reports. Numbers this year were less than last year's very good year but a little above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 7 14 42 62 12 7 35 43 25 10 6

52 HEN HARRIER - Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor This species forms communal roosts in winter. Most reports are received from West Penwith and the Lizard Peninsula where there is a concentration of birds as they move south and west. Most reports are from these areas and there are few from the Mid-Cornwall Moors. Indeed, there were no reports from Tregonetha Downs this year whereas, in 1991, the roost at that site had up to nine birds. Moor Crowdy Res: A first cal on 8th and 17th Oct: One on 24th and 25th Nov. Dozmary Downs: One on 13th Nov. Mid-Cornwall Moors Hen Harrier (Kester Wilson) Goss Moor: Singles on 17th Feb and 20th - 23rd Mar. Lizard Peninsula Croft Pascoe: One on 25th May. Goonhilly Downs: Single males seen regularly throughout the year. Females on 12th Apr, 3rd May, 24th and 30th Oct, 6th and 28th Nov, 24th, 27th and 28th Dec: Two males on 5th Dec. Windmill Farm: Single birds seen regularly through the year, presumably some of the Goonhilly birds. West Penwith Adams Hill, St Buryan: One on 12th and 15th Feb: A first cal on 29th Nov - 25th Dec. An adult on 8th -21st Dec. Brew, Sennen: One on 23 rd Nov. Grumbla: One on 28th Dec. Higher Tregiffian: A first cal on 11th Oct. Kelynack: Singles on 10th Oct, 7th and 24th Nov, 5th and 30th Dec. Land's End/Sennen: Singles on 24th Jan, 14th and 24th Feb. Females 29th Mar and 24th Apr: A second cal male on 27th Apr: A first cal on 1st Nov: A first cal male and a female on 14th Nov. One on 29th Nov and one on 11th Dec. Men-An-Tol: Four on 9th Jan and one on 10th Jan: Two on 2nd Feb: five on 28th Feb: Singles on 13th Nov, 29th Nov and 1st Dec, 3rd and 12th Dec. Nanjizal/Skewjack: A second cal male on 18th Jan: A third cal male on 26th Apr: Males on 24th Nov and 21 st Dec. Nanquidno: Singles on 14th Jan, 7th Mar, 10th and 16th Oct. Porthgwarra: Singles on 26th Jan, 25th Apr and 24th May: Two on 12th Oct and one on 30th Oct. Towednack: An adult male on 2nd Dec. Trewey Common: Singles on 19th and 23rd Nov and 28th Dec: Two on 26th Nov. Zennor: One on 16th Oct. Other reports Bunning's Park: One on 13th Nov. Hal's Grave: One on 24th Feb. Kerrow: One on 14th Oct. Ponsanooth Sewage Works: One on 28th Dec. Penlee Point: One on 8th Oct. Porth Joke: One on 9th Oct. St. Columb Sewage Works: One on 3rd Dec. Upper Tamar Lake: One on 29th Dec. Wiggle: One on 8th Oct.

53 MONTAGU'S HARRIER - Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant This species was formerly a breeding species. Breeding was last confirmed in 1979. As with all rare raptors it is important that plumage details are noted, the primary spacing on the open wing being an essential detail. A report that relies solely on the fact that a bird looked long winged and slim bodied is unlikely to be considered as proven. Chapel Porth: An adult female on 9th May DE. Goonhilly Downs: An adult female on 9th Aug SFE. St. Agnes Head: An adult female on 26th Apr - 11th May DJC. The county mainland total is now c. 15 since 2000. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 10 1 1 1 1 - - -

EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK - Accipter nisus (Sparrowhawk) Common and widespread breeding resident and passage migrant The number of reports received fluctuates greatly and it is assumed that most observers do not submit records of single sightings of this common raptor. There is an increase in numbers in autumn as a result of dispersal and migration. There were reports of birds from seventy-nine localities, ten less than last year. All reports were of one or two birds apart from the following: Nanquidno: Three on 7th Oct. Porth Reservoir: Three on 18th Nov. Walmsley Sane: Three on 19th Apr.

COMMON BUZZARD - Buteo buteo (Buzzard) Abundant breeding resident with some dispersal Birds were reported throughout the county. Reports include: Kit Hill: Twelve on 23rd May. Marazion Marsh: Ten on 16th Apr. Nanquidno: Fourteen on 7th Oct. Porthgwarra: Ten on 6th Mar and twelve on 12th Oct. Sennen: Eleven on 10th Mar.

OSPREY - Pandion haliaetus Scarce passage migrant Adams Hill, St Buryan: One on 1st - 2nd Sep JL. Caerthillian Cove: One on 28th May SMC. Camel Est/Walmsley Sane: Singles on 28th May SMC, LW, 9th Sep (roosting at dusk) DAC and 10th Sep SMC, LW. Colliford Res: Two on 14th Aug CRe: One on 2nd Sep DAC. Drift Res: A first cal on 1st Aug DSF, RWi. Hayle Est: One on 20th May DSF: One on 21st Aug PF. Kenidjack: One on 12th Oct CMo. Marazion Marsh: One on 20th May DSF. Nanjizal: One on 2nd May RI. Nanquidno: One on 28th May CMo, MTE.

54 St. Buryan: One on 5th Sep DSF. St. John's Lake: One on 27th Jul LACT: One on 11th Sep JCN. St. Merryn Airfield: One on 7th Sep SMC. Saltash: One on 6th Aug JM. Sennen Cove: One on 28th May MTE. Tres'uYvan River. One on \\t\\ Sep JMT. Trevose Head: One on 14th Apr SMC. Even allowing for the increase in the number of observers during the period, the impact of the burgeoning breeding population to the north is having a significant impact on the number of migrants passing through the county. There was an average of less than two in the 1960's, less than five in the 1970's, six in the 1980's and seventeen in the 1990's. This year's total of twenty-two compares with an average of twenty-four during the previous four years. The county mainland total is now c. 425 since 1945. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 7 43 62 20 19 88 139 40 7 -

COMMON KESTREL - Falco tinnunculus (Kestrel) Breeding resident and migrant No reports were of more than three birds, apart from the following: Goonhilly Downs: Four on 17th and 30th Oct. May on Cliff: Four on 14th Apr. Pentire Point: Five on 28th Jul. Porthgwarra: Four on 11th Oct. Trevose Head: Two adults and three first cal (ringed): Six on 9th Sep.

MERLIN - Falco columbarius Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Records of this species are normally only of single birds, and we ask that details of all sightings are reported. Numbers fluctuate from year to year but with no particular trend, and this year were the highest of the last twenty-five years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 15 11 9 18 - - - - 12 35 40 24 Most records were of single birds, apart from the following: Colliford Res: Two on 6th Nov. Goonhilly Downs: Two on 5th Dec. Goss Moor: Three on 6th Jan: Two on 28th Nov: Three on 30th Dec Hayle Est: Two on 13th Nov. Land's End: Three on 10th Oct: Two on 4th Nov. Lizard Village: Two on 6th Apr. Mill Bay, Nanjizal: Two on 5th Apr. Park Clay Pit: Two on 6th Nov. Porthgwarra: Two sitting together on 8th Oct: Two on 31st Oct. Sancreed: Two on 28th Feb. Sennen Cove: Two on 12th Feb. Trevose Head: Two on 8th Apr: Two on 12th Dec Walmsley Sane: Two on 8th Nov

55 EURASIAN HOBBY - Falco subbuteo (Hobby) Scarce passage migrant and a rare breeding species in east Cornwall This species has occurred with increasing regularity throughout the county since 1975 (there was an average of less than six birds per annum during the 1970's) and this trend looks set to continue given the steady increase of the UK breeding population. Overall numbers this year were approximately nine per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Historically, the earliest report since 1969 was on 10th April 1988 at Dunmere, and the latest at Marazion Marsh on 15th November 2000. This year the earliest report was on 7th April at St. Buryan, the earliest ever, and the latest at Wadebridge Sewage Works on 22nd October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1943 ------1 - - - - - 1951 - - 1 ------. - - 1952 ------1 - - - 1953 - - - 1 ------1963 - - - - - 1 - - 1 1 - - 1964 ------1 - - - 1966 ------1 1 - - - 1967 - - - - 3 - 1 - 1 - - - 1968 - - - 2 2 - - - 1 - - - 1969 - - - - 1 - - - - 1 - - 1970 - - - - 2 - - - - 1 - - 1972 - - - 3 - 1 - - - 1 - - 1973 - - - - 1 - - 1 1 - - - 1974 - - - - 2 - 1 - 1 1 - - 1975 - - - - 1 1 1 - 1 1 - - 1976 - - - 1 1 3 3 2 2 - - - 1977 - - - 1 5 3 1 - 7 - - - 1978 - - - - 1 - 1 1 2 2 - - 1979 - - - 1 - 1 - - 1 1 - - 1980 - - - - 4 2 1 - 3 1 - - 1981 - - - - 3 5 - 2 5 - - - 1982 - - - 4 5 4 2 1 4 2 - - 1983 - - - 1 2 3 3 3 1 - - - 1984 - - - 3 5 1 2 1 2 3 - - 1985 - - - 2 5 4 1 3 4 1 - - 1986 - - - - 3 6 2 4 7 2 - - 1987 - - - 1 5 1 1 3 4 2 - - 1988 - - - 2 9 6 3 3 2 - - - 1989 - - - - 12 9 3 4 6 4 - - 1990 - - - 4 6 5 4 7 7 10 - - 1991 - - - 3 4 4 1 9 4 - - - 1992 - - - - 12 4 4 7 1 2 - - 1993 - - - 2 9 4 2 6 9 5 - - 1994 - - - 3 9 5 4 11 9 1 - - 1995 - - - 2 12 6 3 5 14 3 - - 1996 - - - 2 14 13 3 6 11 2 - - 1997 - - - 4 20 6 2 6 15 3 - - 1999 - - - 3 23 5 9 4 6 - - - 2000 - - - 4 13 13 8 8 6 6 1 - 2001 - - - 3 21 17 10 11 7 6 - - 2002 - - - 2 7 5 6 8 14 8 - - 2003 - - - 1 7 13 11 9 6 3 - - 2004 - - - 9 14 11 6 6 8 4 - -

56 PEREGRINE FALCON - Falco peregrinus (Peregrine) Breeding resident and winter visitor Records were spread widely around the county. Breeding reports: 2004 2003 2002 2001 Site 1 Two young Three young Three young Two eggs failed Site 2 Three eggs - failed Four young Four young Two young Site 3 Failed Three young Three young No activity at site Site 4 Two young Failed - Two young Site 5 Two young - - Two male young Site 6 One egg - failed Two young Two young Three young Site 7 One young Two young Two young One young Site8 - - - No activity at site Site 9 Did not breed Three young Three young Two male young Site 10 One young Present Present Two young Site 11 Bred - - Two young Site 12 - - - Three young Site 13 - Present Present Two young Site 14 Nested - - Bred Site 15 Three young Three young Three young One young Site 16 One young - - Three young Site 17 - - Bred Site 18 Nested - Nested Site 19 - - Nested Site 20 - One young Site 21 - Nested Site 22 - Nested Site 23 - One young Site 24 - Two young Site 25 - Two young Site 26 - Three young Site 27 - Two young Site 28 Three eggs - failed Site 29 Did not breed Site 30 One young Site 31 Three young Site 32 Two young Site 33 One young Site 34 Present Site 35 Two young

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE - Alectoris rufa Uncommon breeding resident that is also released for sporting purposes Many hundreds of hand-reared birds were released for shooting purposes in the 1970's and 1980's, particularly in mid and east Cornwall. However, the breeding success of these feral birds was poor. Most reports are from the east of the county. Numbers reported have been higher during the last four years but it is not known if this results from the release of birds for shooting purposes. Reports include: Burniere Point: Ten on 1 st Nov.

57 Caerhays: Ten on 2nd Jan. : Seven on 4th Nov. Menabily Barton: Six on 29th Sep. Portholland: Eight on 9th Feb and thirty on 22nd Nov. St. Kew Highway: Twelve on 16th Nov. Tregaswith: Twenty on 13th Oct. Tubb's Mill: Twelve on 16th Nov. Walmsley Sane: Twenty on 4th and 17th Jun. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 16 17 11 24 16 28 5 3 8 23 74 14

GREY PARTRIDGE - Perdix perdix Rare breeding resident that is also released for sporting purposes In 1944 there were "several coveys at St. Eval" and they were "very plentiful at Tregorden" in 1946 when they were a common bird in many parts of the county. However, the Grey Partridge has been declining nationally for many years, this decrease accelerating since the 1980's owing to the impact of modern intensive farming practices. Reports were received of birds at twenty-seven sites in 1987, and at twenty-nine sites in 1991, but as birds have been released annually for shooting purposes there is no way of knowing if the species is self-sustaining. There were reports from seven sites this year, five less than last year, and records of only sixteen birds were received. Portholland: Two on 9th Feb and 22nd Nov SMC, LW. Railton: Seven on 21st Dec SGR. Rame Head: One on 22nd Apr RMB. Respryn: One on 16th May BLW. St. Dominick: One on 30th Jan HA. Tregilders, Wadebridge: One dead on the road on 14th Jul SMC. Trekelvesteps: One on 31st Oct RMB. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 - 1 1 - 1 - - 1 2 7

COMMON QUAIL - Coturnix coturnix (Quail) Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor Adams Hill, St. Buryan: Two on 5th Jul - 2nd Aug JL. St. Kew Highway: One on 8th Sep killed by a car SMC. There is no pattern to annual numbers. The last blank year was 1974, following blank years in 1972 and 1969. Numbers since then have ranged between singles in 1985 and 1986 and fifty-nine in 1989. The last confirmed breeding was in 1982. The county total is now c. 345 (plus 37 young) since 1931. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - 1 5 95 124 63 26 20 7 2 - * one undated

58 COMMON PHEASANT - Phasianus colchicus (Pheasant) Breeding resident with thousands released annually for sporting purposes

WATER RAIL - Rallus aquaticus Resident that breeds in small numbers, passage migrant and winter visitor It is difficult to estimate numbers of this secretive species, particularly during migration when there is a regular turnover of birds. Overall numbers reported this year were similar to the last two years and a little above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 41 29 18 2 1 1 1 6 8 54 62 49 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May J un Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bude Marshes 4 ------20 2 3 Drift Res. 1 2 3 ------1 - Goss Moor 2 1 ------6 4 Harlyn Bay 4 - 3 ------3 4 7 Land's End/Sennen 5 1 ------1 2 1 Loe Pool 8 16 4 1 - 1 - - 2 2 3 10 Maer Lake 2 2 1 - - - - 2 1 2 3 - Marazion Marsh 7 5 3 - - - - 3 2 10 20 6 Par Beach Pool 1 1 2 - 1 - 1 - - - 3 2 Walmsley Sane. 1 - 1 - - - - 2 2 3 3 Windmill Farm 1 ------1 1 1

SPOTTED CRAKE - Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and rare winter visitor that bred in 1860, 1862 and 1874 Marazion Marsh: A first cal on 1st Sep JHy. Walmsley Sane: One on 16th Nov SMC. The county mainland total advances to c. 162 since 1947. Marazion Marsh has now had ninety-three records, Walmsley Sanctuary has had three and Tamar Lakes has had nine. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 3 3 2 1 - 4 67 62 18 2 -

LITTLE CRAKE - Porzana parva Very rare vagrant Marazion Marsh: A first cal on 1st - 13th Nov DP et al. Although there were two reports in the nineteenth century, this is the first accepted record for the county mainland.

CORN CRAKE - Crex crex (Corncrake) Rare passage migrant that last bred in 1967 and has over-wintered. Nanjizal: One on 7th Oct MWa. Nanquidno: One on 29th Apr CMo. Porthgwarra: One on 8th Oct DP. The mainland total is now c. 164 since 1932. This species was described as a common species in 1715, and was still breeding annually in the early 1900's, but there were only thirteen sightings in the 1990's 59 and none in 2000. However, it is understood that conservation work in the Western Isles has met with some success in recent years, and this may perhaps result in more frequent sightings in future. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May J un Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - - 12 28 27 8 20 20 20 3 - *twenty-five undated

COMMON MOORHEN - Gallinula chloropus (Moorhen) Breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor After a period of apparent decline during the 1970's and 1980's, due mainly to habitat loss, a more enlightened attitude toward habitat conservation and creation in the 1990's enabled the Moorhen to regain some lost ground. Reported numbers then started to reduce from 1998 onwards, to a low in 2001, but have increased annually since than and are now back at 1998 levels. Overall numbers this year were approximately nine per cent above the average of the previous ten years, and the number of birds recorded in November 2004 was the highest of the last twelve years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 212 211 120 79 69 78 113 120 103 154 237 219 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bake Lakes 26 - 10 - 7 - - - - - 14 14 Bude Marshes 30 ------20 30 35 College Res. 2 2 2 1 1 - 6 6 10 1 10 14 Drift Res. 31 19 2 6 - 1 11 - - - 11 6 Helston Boat Lake 8 3 2 2 1 9 4 2 3 8 4 2 Loe Pool 31 42 12 13 7 14 4 4 16 18 14 15 Maer Lake 19 23 12 9 8 10 45 20 14 21 35 - Marazion Marsh 20 76 35 7 4 4 5 31 11 30 11 28 Millbrook Lake 3 3 2 1 1 - 3 1 - 3 5 8 Par 5 8 12 10 15 18 10 12 6 6 26 28 Porth Res. 1 2 4 1 3 - 2 2 2 - 5 3 Swanpool 3 6 4 - - - - - 5 4 14 8 Tehidy Country Park - - - 8 9 5 8 22 21 22 28 21 Tresillian River 12 9 11 4 2 4 5 7 6 6 7 11 Walmsley Sane. 12 2 6 7 - - 2 - - - 4 6

COMMON COOT - Fulica atra (Coot) Breeding resident, passage migrant and common winter visitor Overall numbers fluctuate from year to year with no particular trend; numbers this year were eight per cent below the average of the last ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 454 382 304 124 75 166 185 247 423 318 475 492

Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Bake Lakes 60 52 52 29 23 28 25 - - 21 32 27 College Res. 4 3 4 - - - 7 - 14 46 47 46 Dozmary 28 19 18 15 4 46 56 47 56 38 32 40 Drift Res. 44 34 11 3 - 2 8 9 13 33 37 40 Helston Boat Lake 38 28 29 12 - 11 17 4 9 22 17 43 Loe Pool 102 74 64 22 3 32 31 109 200 71 94 83

60 Marazion Marsh 19 22 16 5 5 - 2 1 2 7 4 9 Par 14 15 23 15 24 30 23 26 12 9 16 18 Park Clay Pit 4 - - 5 4 11 - - - - 97 88 Porth Res. 19 13 2 - - - 1 7 11 - 8 15 Siblyback Res. 36 42 32 8 - - 8 16 34 27 30 30 Stithians Res. 17 13 11 - 4 2 6 26 26 7 8 9 Swanpool 48 51 29 - - - - - 23 32 34 34 Walmsley Sane. 8 9 12 10 6 3 1 - - 1 2 - Other reports include: Harlyn Bay: Twenty on 3rd Sep.

COMMON CRANE - Grus grus Occasional visitor. Hayle Estuary: An adult on 9th - 13th Oct SGR, DP et al. Lizard: One on 9th - 10th May DE, JHy: One on 17th Oct was the Hayle bird SFE, JC. Marazion Marsh: One on 9th Oct was the Hayle bird DSF. The mainland total is now c. 33 since 1939. There have been a number of multiple records including eight at Trebehor, St Buryan on 6th November 1963. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 - 2 3 2 - - - - 4 12 8

EURASIAN OYSTERCATCHER - Haematopus ostralegus (Oystercatcher) Resident that breeds in small numbers (mainly on the north coast), common passage migrant and winter visitor Overall numbers for the last twelve years appear to indicate a reducing trend; numbers this year were similar to last year and approximately sixteen per cent below the average of the previous ten years. The running ten-year average has reduced for a fourth successive year. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,151 639 246 223 243 84 397 660 865 1,044 1,011 802 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 194 266 9 98 59 44 165 - 320 160 145 166 Fowey Est. 4 4 3 4 - - 6 - 16 2 - 2 Gannel Est. 12 7 2 - - - 9 7 9 - 15 10 Gerrans Bay 11 - 5 9 - 9 11 7 8 12 22 20 Hayle Est. 23 30 21 15 11 7 37 60 50 49 40 30 Lynher Est. 110 61 24 " 8 - - 3 - 11 27 98 66 Maer Lake/Bude 42 18 19 - 2 5 25 49 36 47 51 20 Mount's Bay 20 ------110 - - Par 36 52 10 14 8 4 6 80 28 48 110 140 Percuil River 30 11 2 2 6 2 7 7 9 9 19 - Restronguet 31 - 2 - - - - - 24 18 12 8 Ruan Lanihorne 38 30 68 - - - - 54 - - 60 - St John's Lake 123 - 15 1 - 2 85 190 70 99 134 137 Tresillian River 10 3 3 9 13 - - 3 11 2 4 4 Trevose Head area 102 48 8 13 36 - 14 27 48 143 33 - Truro River 59 35 22 - - - - 48 54 47 60 71 Upper Tamar Est. 63 42 12 18 - - 7 6 118 95 90 83 Whitsand Bay 114 - 16 18 30 6 14 33 30 72 42 45

61 Other reports include: Penlee Point: Fifty-two on 2nd Oct. Pentire, Newquay: 103 on 18th Jan. Porth Mear: Eighty-five on 3rd Nov.

PIED AVOCET - Recurvirostra avosetta (Avocet) Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Records mainly involve the same birds moving around the Lynher and Tamar Estuaries. There were only three reports of birds in Cornwall prior to 1948, the year when there was a first sighting of the species (two birds) on the Tamar Estuary. Numbers gradually rose in the area until the latter part of 1986 when a count of one hundred was obtained, and then more than doubled by early 1991 when there was a maximum count of two hundred and fifty five. Numbers have exceeded two hundred every year since, with maximum counts of three hundred and forty six in January 1996 and five hundred and ninety three in December 1997. Numbers peaked in the mid 1990's and then dropped away to a low in 2001, but have increased during the last three years. This year's record of three hundred and ninety-four birds is the highest ever January count. Maximum counts on the Tamar Estuary: 1948 2 1963 60 1978 62 1993 234 1949 3 1964 60 1979 51 1994 260 1950 5 1965 50 1980 69 1995 263 1951 7 1966 46 1981 72 1996 346 1952 14 1967 52 1982 81 1997 593 1953 14 1968 63 1983 71 1998 227 1954 19 1969 56 1984 73 1999 262 1955 27 1970 64 1985 95 2000 243 1956 29 1971 59 1986 100 2001 190 1957 46 1972 93 1987 106 2002 272 1958 46 1973 65 1988 107 2003 365 1959 43 1974 38 1989 150 2004 394 1960 50 1975 75 1990 194 1961 53 1976 62 1991 255 1962 48 1977 66 1992 200 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Lynher Est. 126 60 - - - - 80 129 Upper Tamar Est. 394 126 11 9 186 259 252 Other reports include: Ruan Lanihorne: Two on 6th Feb. Tresillian River: Up to four on 1st - 19th Jan

LITTLE PLOVER - Charadrius dubius (Little Ringed Plover) Uncommon passage migrant Annual numbers have fluctuated between three and twenty-seven since 1980, with an average of eleven per annum. There were eighteen records this year. The running ten-year average shows a steadily increasing trend over the last thirty years, from three point four per annum in 1974 to sixteen this year. Historically, the earliest report since 1956 was on 12th March 2000 at Maer Lake, and the latest at Stithians Reservoir on 28th October 1983. This year the earliest was at Walmsley Sanctuary on 16th April and the latest on 22nd November at Par Beach Pools, the latest ever. Crowdy Res: One on 20th Sep SMC.

62 Davidstow Airfield: One on 17th - 19th Sep SMC, BMP, LW. Drift Res: One on 9th Jul CMo: One on 2nd - 3rd Aug CMo. Hayle Est: One on 14th - 16th Jul DSF. Land's End: One on 2nd May MWa: One on 31st Jul MWa. Maer Lake: One on 25th Apr: Two on 27th Apr and one on 28th Apr CS: One on 22nd Aug. Nanjizal: One on 8th Jul KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 9th Aug SMC, JDB. Sennen Cove: One on 13th Mar MTE. Tamar Lakes: One on 28th Jul HK. Upper Tamar Lake: One on 4th Aug JHy, DAC. Walmsley Sane: One on 16th Apr SMC. The county total is now c. 352 since 1956. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 14 82 62 13 36 80 57 5 3 -

RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius hiaticula (Great Ringed Plover) Passage migrant and winter visitor Formerly a scarce breeding species, but none recorded since 1972. Overall numbers fluctuate considerably from year to year with no particular trends; this year they were fifty-four above the average of the previous ten years. There was a large passage in August that included a count of three hundred and fifty on the Hayle Estuary. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 136 35 21 143 80 1 88 1,379 609 226 79 87 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 22 19 4 30 7 - 9 31 60 25 25 24 Colliford Res. - - - - 7 - - 10 13 2 - - Crowdy/Davidstow - - - 6 12 - - 39 26 8 - - Gannel Est. ------1 11 20 8 - - Hannafore 9 6 - - 2 - - - - 2 4 4 Hayle Est. 35 - 1 4 16 - 15 350 5 25 15 4 Mount's Bay 47 - 1 6 10 - 22 121 100 17 18 20 Par 10 1 12 30 7 - - 20 17 6 8 10 St. John's Lake 4 8 - - - - - 20 16 12 3 6 Trevose Head _ 1 4 3 - 5 3 1 _ -

EURASIAN DOTTEREL - Charadrius morinellus (Dotterel) Scarce passage migrant This species has been an annual visitor since 1968. Numbers fluctuate from year to year and there appears to be no particular trend. Brew, Sennen: One on 6th May MWa: One on 8th - 10th Oct MWa. Davidstow: Fourteen on 27th Apr had increased to seventeen on 28th April and remained until 30th Apr DAC, CS. Higher Tregiffian: A first cal on 11th Oct may have been the St. Just Airfield bird DB. Land's End: One on 28th Aug MWa: A first cal on 29th Sep MWa: One on 8th Oct MWa. Nanjizal: One on 1st May KAW: One on 12th Aug KAW: One on 28th Aug KAW: One on 5th Sep MrF: One on 10th Sep KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 28th Aug JL: One on 3rd Sep RI.

63 St. Just Airfield: One on 10th Oct CMo. Trevedra Farm: One on 26th Sep BM, RWi. Trevose Head: One on 1st May SGR. The county mainland total now moves to c. 326 since 1931. Porthgwarra has most records with seventy-nine, Davidstow Airfield has had forty-six, St. Just Airfield twenty-three and Trevose Head twenty. The thirty-two birds reported this year was the highest ever, the previous being of twenty-six in 1981. The count of seventeen on Davidstow Airfield is the highest ever recorded at one site, the previous high being of ten in 1981 and 1993. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 14 50 23 - - 44 131 51 9 2

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis dominica Rare vagrant. 2003: Predannack: One on 1st and 7th - 8th Oct ARP, MT. Windmill Farm: One on 16th Oct was presumably the Predannack bird ARP. The county mainland total is now c. 52 since 1969. There are twelve records at Crowdy Reservoir/ Davidstow Airfield. Stithians Reservoir has also had twelve records and Sennen has had nine. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 2 - - - 2 17 25 6 -

EUROPEAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis apricaria (Golden Plover) Passage migrant and winter visitor Breeding has never been proven in Cornwall, although a few pairs breed on Dartmoor and single birds are occasionally seen in suitable nesting habitat on . Numbers fluctuate considerably from year to year and, although numbers reported this year were the highest since 1999, the ten-year running average has reduced during each of the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ;,639 9,329 2,903 323 10 - - 5 879 9,926 14,059 7,356 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. - 1,400 ------18 900 800 Colliford /Dozmary 300 800 540 ------1,400 2,000 1,500 Crowdy/Davidstow 2,000 - 500 9 - - - 1 450 3,500 3,500 - Goonhilly area 2,000 - 300 ------1,200 - - Hayle Est. ------359 35 200 Land's End/Sennen 220 350 70 - - - - 2 173 400 700 200 Maer Lake 1,984 1,821 515 ------5 1,400 900 Seaton ------350 800 350 Walmsley Sane. 360 1,800 260 2 ------2 - Windmill Farm 340 22 250 - - - - 2 50 250 1,500 - Other reports include: Gear Sands: 1,400 on 10th Dec. Gulval: 1,000 on 6th Nov. Plain-an-Gwarry: 1,500 on 11th Feb.

64 GREY PLOVER - Pluvialis squatarola Passage migrant and winter visitor After a better year last year, overall numbers reduced back to a low level this year. Numbers this year were more than a third down on the average of the previous ten years, and the running ten-year average has reduced during each of the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 223 277 51 4 3 - - - 5 52 42 104 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 57 149 21 1 - - - - - 2 - 30 Hayle Est. 32 4 15 1 - - - - - 6 8 12 Lynher Est. - 46 ------7 12 Mount's Bay 28 32 ------20 1 12 St. Johns Lake 75 12 ------18 35 Trevose Head area 314 11 _ - - - 1 3 - -

NORTHERN LAPWING - Vanellus vanellus (Lapwing) Scarce resident that breeds in low numbers and winter visitor There are significant variations in the numbers seen from year to year, doubtless reflecting the severity of winters to the north, and a substantial reduction in numbers during recent years. Overall numbers this year were better than the previous two years, but still a long way below the levels reported during the 1990's. This year's reported numbers were less than half of the average of the previous ten years, and the running ten-year average shows a steadily reducing trend. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5,081 3,251 567 16 12 47 57 35 43 986 5,467 6,639 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel/Walmsley 2,400 1,700 440 1 - - 1 - 3 189 734 1,600 Colliford/Dozmary 40 150 10 11 6 43 47 25 - 23 900 160 Crowdy/Davidstow 800 200 - 3 4 2 - 2 31 20 450 - Hayle Est. 126 70 ------35 1,012 450 Land's End/Sennen 150 140 - - - - - 1 - 80 212 200 Maer Lake/Bude 350 250 15 - - - - 1 2 59 350 700 Marazion Marsh - 1 1 - - - - 46 200 Ruan Lanihorne 8 50 ------300 45 Sancreed 150 ------55 74 180 Stithians 97 - - - - 2 4 - 24 35 141 Upper Tamar Est. 75 37 - - - 2 5 2 6 28 30 212 Windmill Farm 270 ------200 500 _ Other reports include: Cubert:210on 4th Feb. Gear Sands: 550 on 10th Dec. Gerran's Bay: 360 on 12th Dec. Grampound: 200 on 26th Jan. Harlyn Bay: 220 on 7th Dec. Loe Pool: 275 on 1st Dec. Porth Joke: 450 on 30th Dec. Upper Tamar Lake: 250 on 29th Dec.

65 RED KNOT - Calidris canutus (Knot) Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Flock sizes on St. Johns and Millbrook Lakes, formerly the stronghold of this species, have reduced significantly. There were regularly two hundred or more prior to 1988, with six hundred in January 1978 and five hundred the following year, but the high count since 1988 is only sixty-two. There Red Knots (Martin Elliot) appears to have been a reduction in overall numbers during the ten years to 2001 and, whilst they increased as a result of higher numbers in the latter part of 2002 that carried through to 2003, numbers were again low at the end of 2003. Overall numbers this year were similar to the previous two years but approximately twenty-eight per cent above the average of the previous ten years.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 14 27 6 - 5 1 3 75 105 50 35 24 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 7 10 5 - 1 - - 4 16 20 - - Hayle Est. ------18 3 2 1 1 Mount's Bay ------4 1 - - Par 3 - - - - - 3 2 3 - 3 2 St. John's Lake 4 ------1 - - 12 1 Trevose Head ------10 9 1 - -

SANDERLING - Calidris alba Passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Overall numbers increased towards the end of the 1990's but dropped off again in the 2000's. However, this year numbers were the highest of the last thirteen years and more than double the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 55 5 22 22 171 6 322 658 123 100 3 11 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 7 5 - - 4 - 18 25 16 2 - 10 Hayle/Porth Kidney 2 - - - 90 - 39 65 20 7 - - Mount's Bay 44 - 20 - 12 - 105 60 30 48 1 - St Austell Bay 2 - 2 8 4 - 2 4 2 - 1 - Trevose Head area - - 11 - 18 3 9 8 - - - Other reports include: Pentewan: Ten on 17th May. St. John's Lake: Twenty on 26th - 28th Aug.

66 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER - Calidris pusilla Rare vagrant Drift Res: A first cal on 17th - 24th Sep JFR et al. The mainland total is now c. 8 since 1978. The previous records were on the Hayle Estuary on 11th - 17th September 1978, Stithians Reservoir on 15th - 29th September 1980, St. John's Lake on 19th - 23rd September 1984, Maer Lake on 25th - 28th September 1988, St. John's Lake on 1st - 15th October 1988, the Camel Estuary on 1st - 4th September 1989 and Maer Lake on 20th - 26th September 1993. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------7 1 - -

LITTLE STINT - Calidris minuta Scarce passage migrant and rare winter visitor Numbers vary greatly from year to year with less than fifty records in many years, but approximately one hundred and eight were reported in September 1993 and an exceptional nine hundred in September 1996. Numbers this year were on the low side, even if one excludes the exceptional year of 1996 from the ten year average.. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 3 - - 1 7 20 13 1 - Brew, Sennen: A first cal on 31st Aug. Camel Est: Singles on 9th, 12th and 16th Sep: Three on 17th Oct. Colliford Res: Singles on 31st Aug and 3rd Sep. Crowdy Res: One on 28th Sep - 8th Oct. Downderry: One on 23rd Jul. Gwithian Towans: Two on 17th Sep. Hayle/Copperhouse: Three on 10th Apr: One on 11th - 12th Aug: One on 23rd Aug: One on 28th Aug: One on 3rd Sep: One on 5th - 7th Sep and two on 8th Sep: One on 6th - 7th Oct: Two on 9th Oct: One on 11th - 13th Oct: Two on 27th Oct. Land's End: One on 9th Sep. Loe Pool: Four on 17th Oct. Long Rock Beach: Two on 8th Sep. Maer Lake: Three on 11th Sep: One on 19th Sep. Marazion Marsh: One on 10th Sep. Nanjizal: Singles on 31st Aug and 9th Sep. Par Beach Pool: One on 23rd Mar: One on 25th - 26th Sep. Trevose Head: One on 17th Aug. Walmsley Sane: One on 5th Nov.

BAIRD'S SANDPIPER - Calidris bairdii Rare vagrant Crowdy Res: A first cal on 4th Sep SMC: A first cal on 8th - 9th Sep SMC, DMY: A first cal on 15th Sep HK, SMC. Davidstow Airfield: A first cal on 6th Sep DE, HK, DMY: Two first cal on 7th and 10th Sep CS: First cals on 8th, 9th, 11th, 13th, 15th - 18th, 20th and 21st Sep HK, AMJD, CS, SMC. Marazion Beach: A first cal on 7th - 11th Sep JHy: A first cal on 15th - 16th Sep AMJD, JHy. Stithians Res: A first cal on 13th Sep - 26th Sep GC, DE.

67 The mainland total is now c. 27 since 1965. There have been five records in Mount's Bay and seven on Davidstow Airfield. It is possible that only two birds were responsible for this year's records at Crowdy Reservoir and Davidstow Airfield, and that there was only one bird at Marazion Beach. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------4 20 3 - -

PECTORAL SANDPIPER - Calidris melanotos Regular vagrant This species is the most frequent American wader to visit the county with only four blank years since 1960, the most recent being in 1997. The highest number reported was twenty-five in 1984 when there were six at Colliford Reservoir between 5th and 8th September. Drift Res: One on 8th Sep FJH: A first cal on 11th - 13th Sep KAW. Hayle Est: One on 24th Oct - 9th Nov DSF. Maer Lake: An adult on 3rd Aug SMC, LW. Pendeen: One on 7th Oct DA. Siblyback Res: One on 4th Sep MB: A first cal on 19th Sep SMC, LW, MPF. The mainland total is now c. 261 since 1948. Drift Reservoir has now had thirty-seven records, Hayle Estuary twenty, Maer Lake ten and Siblyback Reservoir nine. Stithians Reservoir has most records I with forty-two. Approximate monthly totals (historic) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 2 2 - 40 164 48 4 -

SHARP-TAILED SANDPIPER - Calidris acuminata Very rare vagrant

Drift Res: An adult on 6th - 7th Aug PF, MKA et al. This is the first record for the Cornish mainland. The Sharp-tailed was the start of a purple patch at Drift, further adding to its reputation as a good wader site when the water level drops.

CURLEW SANDPIPER - Calidris ferruginea Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor Usually seen in small numbers but with occasional exceptional years, as in 1999 when seventy-eight were reported on the Camel Estuary in September and thirty-five on the Hayle Estuary in August. Numbers were on the low side this year, about forty- eight per cent below the average of the previous years.

Curlew Sandpipers (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 ------6 37 18 3

68 Camel Est: Three 8th - 9th Sep with two on 10th and 12th Sep: One on 19th Sep: One on 17th Oct: One on 27th Oct. Colliford Res: Two on 3rd - 6th Sep. Crowdy Res: One on 13th Jan: One on 31st Aug - 1st Sep: One on 28th Sep - 2nd Oct. Davidstow Airfield: One on 25th Sep: Two on 28th Oct. Devoran: One on 11th Sep. Drift Res: One on 8th Sep: Five on 11th - 15th Sep: three on 17th Sep. Hayle Estuary: An adult on 8th Aug: One on 10th - 12th Aug with a second bird on the latter date: One on 15th Aug: One on 29th Aug: One on 5th Sep: One on 11th Sep: One on 14th Sep: One on 17th Sep: One on 20th - 21st Sep: Two on 11th Oct: One on 17th - 18th Oct: One on 20th Oct: One on 25th - 26th Oct: One on 30th Oct - 5th Nov. Kingsmill Lake: One on 15th Sep, with three on 16th Sep and two to 24th Sep. Land's End: One on 11th Oct. Maer Lake: One on 2nd Oct. Marazion Beach: One on 1st - 15th Sep but with three on 6th, four on 7th and two on 10th Sep: One on 9th - 10th Oct: One on 13th Oct: One on 22nd - 27th Oct. Nanjizal: One on 8th Sep. Porth Joke: One on 12th Nov. Predannack Airfield: One on 9th Oct. Restronguet: One on 17th Oct. St. John's Lake: One on 21st Nov. Sennen Cove: One on 10th Sep. Tamar Est: One on 26th Nov. Tolcame Beach: One on 8th Sep. Tresillian River: Two on 18th Sep: One on 17th Oct. Walmsley Sane: Two on 9th Sep.

PURPLE SANDPIPER - Calidris maritima Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Mount's Bay is the main site for this species, with a minimum (largest) flock of twenty-four in 1974 and a maximum of seventy-five in 1996: The largest flock was fifty-two this year. However, Sennen Cove has seen increasing numbers in recent years with a high count of forty-four this year. Overall numbers were only three-quarters of the average of the previous ten years, and the running ten-year average has reduced during each of the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 56 68 71 44 8 - - - - 36 18 88 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Constantine Bay - 2 17 ------Hannafore/Down. 3 3 1 3 - - - 1 1 - Mount's Bay 51 52 33 41 8 - - - 14 40 Sennen Cove - 11 20 - - - 30 - 44 St. Ives ------5 3 4

DUNLIN - Calidris alpina Passage migrant and winter visitor, but small numbers have occasionally bred on Bodmin Moor and are the most southerly breeding Dunlin in the world Overall numbers have reduced since the 1980's and 1990's and flock sizes in recent years are significantly lower than during the previous two decades. Numbers this year were better than the

69 previous four years but still well below the levels seen in the 1990's. The running ten-year average shows a reduction for the fourth successive year. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 6,353 2,017 841 959 868 1 624 3,371 1,488 1,050 1,362 2,961 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 700 489 28 110 4 - 56 86 234 55 142 650 Colliford Res. - - - - 6 - - 17 18 7 - 1 Crowdy/Davidstow 12 - 8 10 12 1 - 75 60 24 6 - Gannel Est. - - 3 - - - 2 24 6 8 - - Gerrans Bay - 40 ------77 Hannafore 1 250 - 2 41 - 1 3 6 - - - Hayle Est. 600 195 220 2 130 - 64 520 200 71 120 130 Kingsmill Lake: 1 - 12 35 12 - 11 43 40 32 90 300 Lynher Est. 2,000 - - - - - 2 - 4 36 8 14 Maer Lake 37 29 12 21 14 - 9 12 9 19 60 26 Mount's Bay 508 150 12 - 8 - 160 40 50 30 30 - Restronguet 160 298 - 2 - - 9 20 6 18 120 160 St. Austell Bay 3 30 30 220 30 - 4 6 4 3 10 35 St. Johns Lake 2,110 250 200 2 - - 8 200 150 85 600 1,200 Trevose Head area - - 8 8 - 4 81 10 6 - - Truro River 15 220 - - - - 2 12 2 50 200 250 Walmsley Sane. 6 40 61 75 60 - - 18 2 - 1 Windmill Farm - - - 3 2 - 4 - - 11 - -

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER - Tryngites subruficollis Regular vagrant Church Fields, Sennen: A first cal on 15th Sep MWa. Crowdy Res: The two first cal Davidstow birds on 6th Sep DMY. Davidstow Airfield: Two first cal on 6th - 8th Sep DE, HK, CS, AMJD, SMC. Nanjizal: A first cal on 16th Sep was the Sennen bird KAW. Predannack Downs: A first cal on 21st - 27th Sep MT. The county mainland total increases to c. 107 since 1968. Crowdy Reservoir/Davidstow Airfield have most records with twenty-seven, Predannack Airfield has had twenty-one and Sennen seven. Approximate monthly totals (historic) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - - 1 - 4 90 11 1 -

RUFF - Philomachus pugnax Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor Overall numbers this year were approximately forty-four per cent below the average of the last ten years, and the ten-year running average for the last four years shows a reducing trend. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 - 3 4 - - - 39 16 6 1 1 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. ------4 1 - - 1 Crowdy/Davidstow ------3 2 - - -

70 Maer Lake - - 1 1 - - - 5 1 - - - Walmsley Sane. 1 - - 2 ------1

JACK SNIPE - Lymnocryptes minimus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Relatively few records are received every year, but this species is reportedly often shot on Bodmin Moor in the winter months and is probably commoner than the records would suggest. The lack of records undoubtedly results from the effectiveness of this bird's camouflage and the fact that they normally do not flush until they are virtually under someone's foot. The number of birds reported in the 1990's and 2000's is higher than during the 1980's; overall numbers this year were lower than the previous two years but average for the previous fifteen years. One bird that was ringed at Land's End in 2003 was re-trapped the following winter, indicating that this species can be site faithful. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 15 8 5 1 1 - - - 1 4 4 5 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End/Sennen 6 3 2 1 1 - - - - 1 2 4 Maer Lake 1 2 ------Marazion Marsh 3 1 1 ------1 1 1

COMMON SNIPE - Gallinago gallinago (Snipe) Resident that breeds in small numbers on Bodmin Moor, passage migrant and winter visitor Maer Lake holds the largest concentrations of wintering birds. Numbers at that site increased substantially between the 1980's and 1990's, doubtless reflecting the improvement in the habitat, but the highest flock size in the 2000's has been less than was seen in the 1990's and this year's was the lowest since 1991. Numbers vary appreciably from year to year, undoubtedly affected by the severity of winter weather to the north, but have been lower in recent years. Overall numbers this year were higher than the previous four years but approximately ten per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 852 744 441 36 5 - 11 39 109 407 412 538 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Crowdy Res - - 2 - - - - 14 3 9 - - Drift Res. 1 4 2 - - - - 1 - 1 5 4 Harlyn Bay/Trevose Head 48 6 20 3 - - - - - 8 9 Hayle Est. 40 27 42 10 - - - 1 - 26 - 14 Loe Pool 8 40 - 6 - - - - - 2 15 7 Maer Lake 229 274 112 1 - - 1 15 75 143 35 70 Marazion Marsh 200 200 30 4 - - 2 - 7 25 110 143 Nanjizal/Skewjack - 15 25 - 1 - 1 2 2 - - - Par 55 5 17 6 4 5 3 6 - 45 - Porthgwarra 20 - 1 ------42 - - Sennen/Land's End 35 40 150 - - - 1 - 8 70 20 4 Stithians Res. - - - 1 - - 1 3 - - - 60 Tresillian River 2 9 ------1 1 5 8 Trevose Head 1 - 1 1 - - - - 1 4 20 -

71 Walmsley Sane. 140 90 26 ------8 - 8 Windmill Farm 33 9 8 2 - - - 4 25 65 45 Other reports include: Bude Marshes: Forty on 29th Dec. Coverack: Twenty-three on 15th Dec. Kingsmill Lake: Fifty on 28th Dec. : Fifty on 25th Nov and 13th Dec.

EURASIAN WOODCOCK - Scolopax rusticola (Woodcock) Passage migrant and winter visitor that bred in the 1960's Few reports are received for this skulking species, most large counts being reported from shoots. Numbers reported this year were the highest since 1997, but it has to be remembered that annual totals are largely a reflection of the amount of information received from shoots. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 30 16 6 ------16 46 50 Reports include: Chynhalls Cliff: Eighteen on 18th Jan. Porthgwarra: Twenty on 15th Nov. St. Loy: Forty at a shoot on 21 st Dec.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa llmosa Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Flock numbers at main sites over the last twenty years show considerable variation but no particular trend. Flocks of two to four hundred birds were regularly seen on the Tamar Estuary complex prior to then and, whilst few birds have been recorded at Ruan Lanihorne in recent years, flocks as high as two hundred and ninety five were recorded in the 1980's and before. Overall numbers for the last thirteen years show no particular trend; this year numbers are the highest of that period and almost a third higher than the average for the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 224 113 77 308 87 15 52 406 246 196 249 306 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Hayle Est. 1 1 2 2 2 - 3 22 2 4 1 - Lynher Est. 2 ------7 28 35 10 12 Maer Lake - - - 14 6 7 1 11 5 6 - 6 Millbrook/St. John's 12 6 - - - - 18 - - - 5 10 Restronguet 5 5 4 - - - 4 54 6 28 44 60 Tresillian River 12 1 - - - - 1 4 4 4 4 17 Truro River 97 56 10 4 - - 2 43 82 68 91 93 Upper Tamar Est. 55 7 24 10 8 4 12 18 29 32 84 85 Walmsley/Camel 40 37 36 50 17 3 1 46 11 2 10 20

BAR-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa lapponica Passage migrant and winter visitor Flock numbers at the main sites over the last twenty-five years show considerable variation but no particular trend. Overall numbers this year were the highest since 1999 and about the average of the previous ten years.

72 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 42 74 49 108 43 12 14 56 114 104 47 31 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 18 72 47 24 7 - 6 10 25 11 2 2 Hayle Est. 3 2 1 3 2 3 - 6 5 15 9 15 Kingsmill Lake ------2 8 15 - Lynher Est. 7 ------7 3 4 - St. John's/Millbrook cS - 1 1 2 - - 1 1 7 9 9

WHIMBREL - Numenius phaeopus Passage migrant and a few have over-wintered Numbers vary appreciably from year to year, without any particular trend and with occasional large day counts e.g. approximately one thousand seen at Mount's Bay in April 1990 and in May 1992. Birds pass through quickly in spring, often only staying for hours or even minutes, with lower numbers seen in autumn. Overall numbers this year, although at similar levels to the previous three years, were approximately forty-five per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 5 4 1,345 1,181 50 222 440 54 59 2 8 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. - - - 79 21 2 22 15 4 26 - - Hayle Est. - - - 12 6 9 8 31 4 - - - Land's End/Sennen - - - 9 25 - 8 - - - - - Millbrook/St John's 5 5 4 15 14 - 20 8 10 15 1 5 Mount's Bay - - - 36 50 - - 1 - - - - St. Austell Bay - - - 180 12 - 1 6 2 - - - Trevose Head area - - - 107 123 1 1 39 1 - - - Upper Tamar Est. - - - 9 9 1 6 2 3 3 - - Other reports include: Downderry: Twenty-seven on 23rd Apr. Gannel Est: Forty-seven on 2nd May. Gerran's Bay: Thirty-seven on 23rd Apr. Lowland Point: Twenty-eight on 2nd May. Maer Lake: 148 on 6th May. Nanquidno: Thirty-five on 1st May. Porthgwarra: 214 on 21 st Apr. Porth Joke: Thirty-two on 6th May. Portnadler Bay: Fifty-five on 2nd May and ninety on 6th May. Sancreed: Thirty on 15th Aug. Tregevean: Thirty-seven on 4th May. Windmill Farm: Fifteen on 1st May.

73 EURASIAN CURLEW - Numenius arquata (Curlew) Scarce breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor There has been a reduction in maximum flock sizes at the main sites during the last twenty-five years. Overall numbers this year, although about average for the 2000's, were approximately thirteen per cent below the average of the previous ten years because numbers were higher in the 1990's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2,373 1,717 452 81 71 953 2,154 3,115 1,983 1,656 1,819 1,717 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel/Walmsley 126 167 111 24 45 110 370 420 550 150 157 190 Fowey Est. 47 51 - - 1 1 54 224 86 62 50 73 Gannel Est. 84 96 1 - - 12 80 170 4 79 264 240 Hayle Est. 550 100 84 6 - 114 131 226 155 300 58 231 Helford River 200 187 - - - 90 90 29 121 - 195 215 Looe Est. 10 5 - - - - 35 2 6 20 14 25 Lynher Est. 183 217 20 1 3 21 324 426 182 92 ISO 132 Maer Lake 105 67 18 - - - - 36 98 139 - - Percuil River 132 9 2 2 6 18 29 52 37 37 19 16 Restronguet 45 65 70 - - 140 200 273 - 70 90 - Ruan Lanihorne 166 250 28 - - 125 - 180 - - 200 - St. Johns Lake 157 - 10 - - 26 150 41 100 200 200 128 Tresillian River 150 52 16 3 1 22 103 122 129 70 88 90 Truro River 135 129 11 6 4 18 98 75 170 141 75 90 Upper Tamar Est. 172 166 55 13 9 38 87 275 264 194 89 151

SPOTTED REDSHANK - Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor Whilst numbers of this species are usually small there has been a reduction in overall numbers, and in maximum flock sizes since the 1980's and before. The Tresillian River had a flock of twenty-one in October 1984 and the Lynher Estuary of twenty-two in October 1975, but the maxima this year were only eight and four respectively. Overall numbers this year were the lowest of the last thirteen years and approximately forty-eight per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 16 8 6 1 - - - 2 9 15 16 16 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Hayle Est. ------1 1 1 1 Kingsmill Lake 3 3 1 - - - - 1 1 4 6 7 Lynher Est. 2 1 ------4 1 Millbrook Lake 1 2 ------1 Tresillian River 8 2 5 1 - - - 4 5 4 5 Truro River 1 - _ _ - _ - - _ 4 - 1

74 COMMON REDSHANK - Tringa totanus (Redshank) Passage migrant and winter visitor Records indicate that there has been a considerable reduction in maximum flock sizes at the majority of sites; the Tamar Estuary had one thousand two hundred in 1965 but only one hundred and ninety-three this year, and the Camel Estuary had four hundred in 1969 but only one hundred and fifty-five this year. Overall numbers this year were only a little below the average of the previous ten years, and the running ten-year average has Common Redshank (Kester Wilson) reduced for the fourth successive year.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 873 729 430 107 6 136 593 733 907 912 979 747 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 93 130 72 72 - 18 60 56 60 126 155 73 Fowey Est. 13 2 - - 1 - 18 18 16 2 8 4 Gannel Est. 3 1 1 1 - - - 2 - 1 1 4 Hayle Est. 58 45 85 15 - 12 30 38 58 114 82 55 Helford River 36 36 6 - - 19 19 37 20 33 - Looe Rivers/Est. 7 6 - 1 - - - - 1 6 4 2 Lynher Est. 95 87 28 - - 3 64 38 105 54 101 74 Millbrook/St John's 170 37 38 9 1 10 68 103 131 119 42 46 Percuil River 6 9 2 3 2 - - 1 - - 8 7 Restronguet Creek 70 70 56 - - - 60 110 100 90 110 100 Ruan Lanihorne 25 45 2 ------50 30 Tresillian River 84 75 19 - - 21 103 135 149 42 47 57 Truro River 57 63 36 - - - 49 17 85 91 110 61 Upper Tamar Est. 95 73 79 - 1 47 113 142 170 193 155 181

COMMON GREENSHANK - Tringa nebularia (Greenshank) Passage migrant and winter visitor Overall numbers fluctuate appreciably from year to year with no obvious trend. That said, the size of the largest flocks reported at St. John's Lake in recent years have been appreciably smaller than during the 1980's and early 1990's. Overall numbers this year were approximately seven per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 78 69 58 34 19 18 125 218 180 105 112 74 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 7 1 3 1 1 3 18 20 32 18 20 12 Drift Res. - - - 2 - - - 4 7 1 - - Fowey Est. 2 1 ------1 2 Hayle Est. 4 5 4 - - 3 6 5 8 4 3

75 Helford River 5 3 1 - - 14 12 11 6 - 7 1 Lynher Est. 8 4 4 - - - - 7 2 3 5 2 Millbrook/St John's 11 7 3 10 1 - 6 11 12 10 8 6 Percuil River 5 8 4 4 1 - - 4 - 14 7 Restronguet Creek 14 16 16 3 6 - 21 30 25 29 16 16 Ruan Lanihorne 2 2 2 - - - - 2 - - 3 - Tresillian River 9 4 6 7 1 - 13 18 23 9 10 4 Truro River 1 3 3 2 - - 6 - 5 2 2 3 Upper Tamar Est. 6 13 12 20 35 25 21 15 14 Walmsley Sane. 1 3 - 11 1 Windmill Farm 1 1 1 1

LESSER YELLOWLEGS - Tringa flavipes Vagrant Clapper Bridge: One on 10th Jan CS. Drift Res: One on 25th Sep - 4th Oct HK. Egoshayle: One on 3rd - 12th Jan CS et al. Hayle Est: Last year's bird to 3rd May LPW et al. The county mainland total is now c. 35 since 1936. Drift Reservoir has now had five records, but the Camel Estuary has most with seven. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 ------6 15 10 2

GREEN SANDPIPER - Tringa ochropus Passage migrant and a few over-winter Annual numbers, and numbers at individual sites, fluctuate from year to year. Ringing activities at Nanjizal show that small numbers of different birds move through quickly at peak passage times. Numbers appear to have increased in recent years, but this may in part be the result of being able to identify the arrival of new birds by the absence of rings. Overall numbers this year were approximately ninety-one per cent above the average of the previous ten years; there has been a steady increase in reports over the last thirteen years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 14 2 6 6 1 - 75 155 17 4 8 9 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Drift Res. ------7 13 - 1 - - Maer Lake ------2 5 - - - - Nanjizal - - - 1 - - 9 6 1 - - Sladesbridge 5 - 3 2 - - - - - 1 - Stithians Res. ------1 4 3 - - 1 Walmsley Sane. ------2 2 - - 2 - Windmill Farm ------2 1 - - -

WOOD SANDPIPER - Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant There were fifty-six reports in 1996 but only seven in 1984, and there was an average of thirty per annum during the twenty-six years to 2003. Overall numbers this year were at the level of the average of the previous ten years.

76 The earliest report since 1935 was on 2nd April 1977 at Mitchell, and the latest at Marazion on 6th November 1981. The earliest report this year was on 25th April at Drift Reservoir, and the latest at Ryan's Field, Hayle on 26th September. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 - - 6 24 5 - - - Adams Hill, St. Buryan: One on 28th Jul JL. Brew, Sennen: One on 19th Jul MWa. Drift Res: One on 25th Apr PStP: One on 2nd Aug CMo with two on 3rd Aug FJH: Three on 5th - 6th Aug SMC, CMo and two on 7th Aug IE: Eleven on 8th Aug SGR and one on 9th Aug SMC, JDB, LW: One on 12th Aug SMC, JDB, LW. Hayle Est: One on 11th - 17th Aug DSF, LPW: One on 26th Sep EW: One on 29th Sep DSF. Land's End: One on 14th Jul RI. Loe Pool: One on 22nd Aug per GH. Maer Lake: One on 27th Jul NBa: One on 1 Oth - 11th Aug SMC, BMP, NBa: One on 14th Aug JHy, DAC: One on 22nd Aug BSW. Nanjizal: Two on 18th Jul and one on 12th Aug KAW. Sennen Cove: One on 8th Sep MTE. Siblyback Res: One on 13th Aug and one on 17th Aug MB, KP. Stithians Res: One on 6th Aug DE: One on 9th Aug, two on 10th Aug and one on 12th Aug SFE, DJe: Two on 16th Sep JL. Upper Tamar Lake: One on 4th Aug DAC, JHy.

COMMON SANDPIPER - Actitis hypoleucos Passage migrant and scarce winter visitor that bred in 1910 and 1989 Reports of this species show a good deal of variation and indicate no particular trend. Overall numbers this year were approximately seventy-six per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 13 9 7 61 32 14 196 303 79 32 13 14 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. - - - 14 - 1 7 6 2 3 - 1 Colliford Res. ------4 15 8 1 - - Drift Res. - - - 6 2 - 7 12 3 2 _ _ Gannel Est. - - - 2 - - 5 1 - - - 5 Hayle Est. 1 - 1 7 - 1 26 19 3 1 2 - Helford River 1 - - - 7 7 - - 1 1 1 Loe Pool - - 6 1 2 - - - - - 1 Lynher/Polbathic 3 - - - - 2 4 7 - 2 1 - Maer Lake - - - 3 - - 1 16 - - - - Mount' Bay - - - 2 6 - 10 17 3 - - - Nanjizal - - - 1 2 - 2 - 2 - - - Par - 1 1 2 1 3 8 4 3 3 2 Percuil River 1 1 1 2 - 1 3 2 2 - 1 St. John's Lake ------2 4 1 - - - Siblyback Res. ------2 4 - - - Stithians Res. - - - 5 3 - 1 2 3 - - - Tamar Lakes ------7 1 - - - - Tresillian River - - - - 1 - 3 3 - - - - Trevose Head - - - - 2 - 2 13 3 - - - Upper Tamar Est. 1 1 1 - - 12 7 5 6 3 2

77 RUDDY TURNSTONE - Arenaria interpres (Turnstone) Passage migrant, winter visitor and a few summer Numbers of this species reduced steadily from 1992 through to 2002, but there was a small increase last year and a further improvement this year. There has been a significant reduction in the number of birds recorded at Looe. Overall numbers this year were approximately twenty-nine per cent above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 206 239 61 67 53 3 57 136 284 349 273 354 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 20 17 2 4 - - - 9 10 20 12 38 Gerrans Bay 12 22 - 7 18 - - - - - 21 55 Hannafore 53 58 4 - 30 - 17 17 80 70 34 10 Hayle Est. 20 19 - 20 - - 4 38 2 10 10 12 Mount's Bay 34 10 10 - - - 12 3 10 65 32 70 St. Austell Bay 20 18 15 7 2 3 6 4 18 15 26 16 St. Ives Bay - - - 7 - - - - - 8 12 13 St. John's Lake 14 31 - 4 - - 6 12 48 30 26 50 Sennen Cove - 15 20 ------13 - - Tamar Est. ------4 14 19 Trevose Head area 5 5 9 - 1 - - 9 42 35 20 - Other reports include: Gorran Haven: Fourteen on 20th Feb.

GREY PHALAROPE - Phalaropus fulicarius Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor Although sightings are usually uncommon, there are days following adverse weather conditions when large numbers have been seen e.g. St. Ives on 23rd September 1984 when one hundred were reported and on 7th October 1988 when seventy-four birds were seen, and at Pendeen Watch on 8th October 2001 when seventy-five were seen. There were seventy-one records this year, compared with an average of twenty-six in the 1970's, one hundred and thirty-six in the 1980's (as a result of the 1984 high) and fifty in the 1990's. Hayle Est: One on 20th - 21st Oct DSF. Land's End: One on 6th Oct RI. Marazion Beach: Two on 25th - 26th Oct SMC, GSB, AHs, DP, DSF, DE. Marazion Marsh: One on 28th - 30th Oct IE, DP, SMC, JHy, JMT, HK. : Five on 29th Oct BD, BSW and three on 30th Oct AMJD, IE. Pendeen Watch: One on 20th Aug KAW: One on 13th Sep JL: One on 14th Sep KAW: Sixteen on 6th Oct DP: Twenty-five on 25th Oct SM, TMC, SJMH. Rosemullion: Four on 27th - 28th Oct PMcC. Trevose Head: Singles on 13th and 15th Sep, three on 5th Oct, one on 6th and one on 21st Oct SMC Wherry Town: Six on 29th Oct DP. The county mainland total advances to c. 4,646 since 1926. Approximate monthly breakdown (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 54 14 3 1 - - 3 82 1,234 2,496 612 147

78 POMARINE SKUA - Stercorarius pomarinus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor Usually only seen in small numbers, but high counts during the last twenty-five years have been ninety-eight at St. Ives on 7th October 1988, seventy-five at Pendeen Watch on the same date, and sixty-two at Cape Cornwall on 17th October 1991. This year's total of forty-six was approximately fifty-two per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 10 1 3 5 10 16 - - Gorran haven: Singles on 23rd Apr, 22nd and 26th Oct DHP. Land's End: Singles on 14th and 24th Aug RI: One on 21st Oct MWa. Lizard Point: Two on 10th May JL. Pendeen Watch: An adult on 30th Aug JL, MWa, KAW: Two on 20th Sep JHy: A second cal on 21st Sep MWa, KAW: Adults on 22nd and 23rd Sep MWa, KAW: One on 1st Oct MWa: Two on 6th Oct DP and on 25th Oct SMC, GSB, KC. Porthgwarra: Eight on 9th May BKM, JL: A third cal on 27th Jun JL: An adult on 21st Oct CMo: Singles on 23rd and 24th Oct SMC. Rame Head: One on 3rd Jul JCN. Rumps Point: Two on 26th Aug CS. Sennen Cove: One on 5th Oct DB. St. Ives Island: Two on 21st Sep SMC, LW. Sennen Cove: Two on 13th Sep MTE. Trevose Head: Singles on 16th and 30th Jul, 19th Sep, 4th, 5th, 6th and 21st Oct SMC. The county mainland total is now c. 3,215 since 1955. Approximate monthly breakdown (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 11 10 2 73 445 103 173 246 489 1,126 467 70

ARCTIC SKUA - Stercorarius parasiticus Passage migrant and rare winter visitor The maximum day counts from St. Ives and Pendeen Watch appear to indicate a reduction in recent years, by comparison with the 1980's. This year's total of two hundred and sixty-two was fourteen per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 9 7 8 9 82 124 23 - - Camsew Pool: One on 24th Aug. Chapel Point: Two on 20th Apr, one on 21st Apr and two on 28th May. Cot Valley: One on 24th Oct. Godrevy Point: Two on 20th Aug. Gorran Haven: Singles on 20th, 23rd and 25th Apr: One on 31st May: Two on 11th Aug: Three on 16th Sep: One on 21st Oct. Hayle Est: One on 22nd Aug. Killigerran Head: Singles on 26th Jun and 23rd Aug. Newquay: One on 20th Sep. Pendeen Watch: Two on 24th Jun: Three on 13th Aug: Nineteen on 20th Aug: Three on 24th Aug: Two on 25th Aug: Three on 28th Aug: One on 29th Aug: Fourteen on 30th Aug: Three on 13th Sep: Forty-seven on 14th Sep: Three on 15th Sep: Two on 20th Sep: Twenty on 21st

79 Sep: Three on 22nd Sep: Eleven on 23rd Sep: Three on 6th Oct: Two on 7th Oct: Three on 14th Oct: One on 25th Oct. Penlee Point: One on 11th Oct. Pentire Point: One on 18th Jul. Penzance Harbour: One on 21 st Apr. Porthgwarra: One on 31st May: Three on 22nd Jun: Two on 17th Jul: Three on 20th Jul: Singles on 23rd and 24th Jul: One on 5th Aug: Two on 12th Aug: One on 21st Aug: Singles on 22nd, 23rd and 24th Oct. Porth Kidney: Two on 5th May: Three on 20th Aug: One on 21st Aug: One on 22nd Aug. Rame Head: One on 23rd Aug: Two on 8th Oct. Rosemullion: Three on 28th Oct. Rumps Point: One on 20th Aug: Two on 26th Aug: One on 27th Aug: Five on 14th Sep: Seven on 21st Sep. St. Ives: Six on 21st Sep. St. Levan: One on 13th May. Towan Head: Three on 23rd Aug: Singles on 11th, 14th and 23rd Sep. Trevose Head: Two on 24th Jun: Singles on 8th Jul and 3rd Aug: Two on 4th Aug: One on 10th Aug: Two's on 13th, 14th, 24th and 29th Aug: One on 30th Aug: Three on 3rd Sep: Singles on 8th and 11th Sep: Three on 12th Sep: One on 13th Sep: Three on 14th Sep: One on 20th Sep: Two on 22nd Sep: Singles on 2nd, 4th and 6th Oct. Whitsand Bay: Two on 20th Apr.

Arctic Skuas and Long-tailed Skua (Kester Wilson)

LONG-TAILED SKUA - Stercorarius longicaudus Rare passage migrant Escalls: A first cal picked up dead on 4th Nov MTE. Land's End: An adult on 11th Sep RI. Pendeen Watch: A first cal on 30th Aug MWa, KAW: A first cal on 21st Sep KAW, MWa. Porthgwarra: A second cal on 12th Aug SMC, JDB: A first cal on 18th Aug CMo, JHy: An adult on 24th Oct SMC, JDB. Rumps Point: An adult on 14th Sep CS. Trevose Head: First cals on 27th Aug, 22nd Sep and 4th Oct SMC.

80 The county mainland total increases to c.210 since 1961. St Ives Island has had sixty-five records and Pendeen Watch has had sixty-nine, whereas Porthgwarra on the south coast only has eighteen records. Approximate monthly breakdown (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - 5 4 3 24 108 59 7 -

GREAT SKUA - Stercorarius skua Passage migrant, and seen in winter during westerly gales Numbers fluctuate greatly from year to year, with no apparent trend. There have been occasional exceptional days as on 12th November 1977 when four hundred and eighty-eight were reported at St. Ives, and following severe gales four hundred and fifty were seen at St. Ives and four hundred at Pendeen Watch on 3rd September 1983. This year's total of five hundred and thirty-three was at the level of the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 1 - 4 - 1 22 126 273 105 1 Regular reports & monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Gorran Haven - - - 2 - - 1 2 3 17 - - Pendeen Watch - 1 - - - - 1 78 163 46 - - Porthgwarra - - - - - 1 20 5 - 9 - - St. Ives Island ------9 - - 1 Towan Head ------3 13 - - - Trevose Head ------17 66 29 - -

MEDITERRANEAN GULL - Larus melanocephalus Passage migrant and winter visitor Birds are constantly passing through and it is difficult to calculate total numbers - observers at the main sites have to use differences in plumage and colour rings to identify individuals. It is helpful if observers estimate and advise the numbers of different birds involved in sightings at regularly watched sites on a monthly basis. Overall numbers this year were approximately forty-two per cent above the average of the previous ten years, and the running ten-year average has increased almost fourfold between 1993 and 2004.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1984 4 9 10 4 4 - - 6 4 6 6 7 1985 7 12 7 - - - 2 8 13 12 11 5 1986 6 12 9 2 - - 3 5 9 13 12 7 1987 8 10 10 - 2 2 4 4 8 9 2 6 1988 7 5 2 - - - 1 6 18 18 10 13 1989 20 10 2 1 1 1 1 8 6 17 8 6 1990 15 13 13 - 2 2 10 12 17 21 14 16 1991 22 20 12 - 1 - 4 11 19 19 15 19 1992 29 24 20 4 1 8 14 18 13 18 15 26 1993 27 21 12 - 1 1 9 12 15 15 13 12 1994 10 15 6 - 2 - 13 25 21 30 45 48 1995 39 38 11 1 - 3 23 30 13 32 24 32 1996 31 24 17 8 - 1 10 25 11 28 24 23 1997 29 29 13 2 5 3 16 37 42 42 40 30 1998 49 54 27 32 1 3 23 62 68 47 34 42

81 1999 36 34 29 3 2 1 44 41 27 45 39 29 2000 51 43 16 4 2 6 61 49 37 57 34 63 2001 47 40 24 6 1 3 42 49 43 45 55 45 2002 85 44 20 4 9 9 55 67 53 53 68 65 2003 68 39 26 4 9 21 83 62 66 93 75 45 2004 60 32 19 8 - 13 72 76 85 68 34 64 Regular reports & monthly numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 16 6 2 - - 6 17 15 54 27 2 13 Gannel Est. 3 6 3 - - - 3 - 1 3 3 Hayle Est. 3 2 4 4 - 3 4 8 2 2 9 Mount's Bay 1 - 1 1 - 1 9 1 3 2 2 1 St Johns/Millbrook 9 11 4 2 3 34 35 21 17 13 10

LAUGHING GULL - Larus atrichia Rare vagrant. Hayle Est: An adult on 23rd - 25th Aug LPW et al. The county mainland total increases to c. 8 since 1977. Previous records were at St Ives in December 1977, at Copperhouse in June 1980, and at Polperro and Mounts Bay in May 1990. Subsequent records were at Maer Lake in September 1996, Drift in April 1997, an adult at Drift and Maer Lake in December 1997, and a second year at Maenporth in December 1997 that remained until 13th January the following year. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1 1 1 3

LITTLE GULL - Larus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers vary from year to year with no particular pattern. This year they were by far the highest of the last thirteen years, and almost five times the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 6 3 4 1 5 438 12 1 Camel Est: A second cal on 20th Mar. Church Cove: Two adults on 29th Oct. Cot Valley: An adult on 24th Oct. Downderry: Two first cal on 10th Oct: Ten on 30th Oct. Drift Res: Three adults on 21st Oct. Freathy: Eleven on 1 st Nov. Gannel Est: A second cal on 14th - 15th Jan: A second cal on 8th - 10th Feb: A second cal on 16th Feb: An adult on 14th Mar: A second cal on 15th Mar: A second cal on 20th Mar: A first cal on 27th-31st Dec. Gorran Haven: Thirty-five on 28th Oct and seventeen on 29th Oct. Hannafore: Two adults on 21st Oct: An adult and a first cal on 31st Oct. Land's End: Two adults on 25th Oct. Loe Pool: An adult on 29th Oct. Lowland Point: A first cal on 10th Oct. Mount's Bay: A first cal on 9th Jan: One on 21st Apr: A first cal on 9th Sep: One on 23rd Sep: One on 25th Oct: Four adults on 28th Oct: Seventy on 29th Oct: Twenty on 30th Oct.

82 Par Beach Pool: An adult on 10th Sep. Pendeen Watch: Two adults and a first cal on 25th Oct. Perprean Cove, Coverack: Forty on 28th Oct and ten on 29th Oct. Porth Res: A second cal on 24th - 25th Jan. Porthgwarra: Two adults on 24th Oct. Portmellon: Two on 28th Oct. Rosemullion Head: Four on 27th Oct: Ninety-one on 28th Oct. Rosemullion Cove: Seventy-five on 27th Oct. St. Austell Bay: One on 24th Oct: Eight on 28th Oct: Four on 29th Oct. St. Ives Bay: Two second cals on 25th Jan. Seaton: Twenty-one on 31st Oct: Eight on 1st Nov. Swanpool: One on 7th Jan. Torpoint: A first cal on 16th Oct. Trevose Head: A second cal on 7th Feb: Adults on 11th and 22nd Sep: An adult and a first cal on 15th Oct: Adults on 17th and 21st Oct.

SABINE'S GULL - Larus sabini Scarce passage migrant Past records show fluctuations from year to year but with no obvious trend. Severe gales on 2nd September 1983 resulted in an exceptional one hundred birds being reported at St. Ives the following day. The twenty-one records this year compares with an average of thirty-six during the last ten years.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1951 ------1 - - - - - 1953 ------1 1 - - 1957 ------1 3 - - - 1958 ------3 - - - 1959 ------1 2 - - 1960 ------3 1 - - 1961 ------2 1 2 - - 1962 ------4 7 1 - 1963 ------1 1 2 - - 1964 ------2 - 1 - 1965 ------3 - - - 1966 ------1 3 - 1 - 1967 ------1 13 16 1 2 1968 ------6 2 - - 1969 ------1 - - 1970 ------1 6 9 6 3 - 1971 ------2 1 5 - 1 1972 - - - 1 1 ------1973 ------2 - - - 1974 ------1 - 11 - - - 1975 ------2 4 - - - 1976 - 1 - 1 - - - - 2 3 - - 1977 ------1978 ------1 20 50 - 1979 ------1 7 - 3 - 1980 ------13 4 - 1 1981 - - - - - 2 - 1 1 13 - - 1982 ------3 2 5 - - 1983 ------239 11 - - 1984 ------28 2 - -

83 1985 ------9 47 - - - 1986 - - - - 1 - - 7 4 3 1 - 1987 - - - - - 1 - 2 6 23 - - 1988 ------2 119 71 - - 1989 - - - 1 - - - 7 13 3 1 - 1990 ------1 6 6 - - 1991 ------11 5 1 - 1992 ------19 5 1 - - 1993 ------1 9 1 - - 1994 ------6 20 2 - - 1995 ------4 6 - - 1996 ------2 2 30 5 1 1997 ------67 16 12 - - 1998 ------6 8 59 6 - - 1999 ------15 12 7 - - 2000 ------28 - - 2001 - - - - - 1 1 1 23 15 - - 2002 ------2 2 1 7 - - 2003 ------1 1 - - 2004 ------1 18 2 - - Godrevy Point: Three first cal on 14th Sep LPW. Newquay: Three first cal on 22nd Sep SMC. Pendeen Watch: Seven on 14th Sep KAW: A first cal on 21st Sep MWa. Seaton: An adult on 31st Oct AP et al. St. Ives: An adult and a first cal on 21st Sep SMC, LW. Trevose Head: An adult on 19th Aug, one on 1st Sep, first cals on 13th and 14th Sep SMC. Wherry Town, Penzance: An adult on 29th Oct DP. The county mainland total is now c. 1,338 since 1951. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 1 - 3 2 4 12 171 740 332 68 5

BONAPARTE'S GULL - Larus Philadelphia Vagrant Gannel Est: A second cal on 8th - 14th Jan SGR et al. Hayle Est: A second cal on 2nd Feb MTE et al. Marazion Beach: A second cal on 13th - 14th Mar DE: An adult on 9th Apr DSF. The county mainland total remains at c. 34 since 1967. Mount's Bay has had twelve records, some of which also visited Drift Reservoir where there have been nine records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 7 4 10 4 1 - - - - 1 3 4

BLACK-HEADED GULL - Larus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor that breeds in relatively small numbers at some reservoirs Large numbers of this species pass through the county, making it very difficult to calculate total numbers. Reports show considerable fluctuations from year to year, but the size of the largest flocks has reduced considerably at the majority of sites since the early 1990's. Numbers this year were higher than the previous three years but well below the levels seen in the 1990's

84 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 16,941 7,185 2,128 1,642 372 1,263 4,511 5,808 6,982 6,792 7,412 14,809 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Argal/College Res 28 7 2 - - - 2 26 7 30 53 153 Camel Est. 8,000 2,700 66 55 160 559 750 - 1,192 1,432 891 8,000 Carrick Roads 36 35 5 2 - - 4 220 150 120 75 49 Colliford Res. 350 - 467 380 115 48 - - 23 1 34 10 Drift Res. 41 15 - - - - - 15 - 136 96 43 Fowey Est. 168 292 108 280 - 17 204 550 262 515 195 196 Gannel Est. 1,800 430 80 7 - - 56 - - - 380 850 Gerrans Bay 105 300 5 65 2 - 5 28 86 128 750 620 Hayle Est. 410 493 179 40 1 18 188 306 308 167 812 333 Helford River 595 147 18 - - - 142 162 160 - 496 - Loe Pool 21 62 25 2 - - 14 20 35 17 111 79 Looe Est. ------220 462 350 Lynher Est. 560 297 238 46 22 148 634 954 1,100 400 170 318 Maer Lake 115 48 26 8 - 2 11 29 37 72 - - Millbrook Lake 428 440 86 105 1 3 208 723 - 249 268 236 Mounts Bay 19 32 3 80 7 - - 2 1 100 1 4 Percuil River 250 5 5 5 - - 2 53 45 50 253 275 Porth Res. 72 130 1 - - - 14 12 - - 54 72 St. Austell Bay 1,500 55 30 - - - 15 50 100 63 58 600 St. John's Lake 300 360 44 2 - - 500 300 400 450 150 700 Siblyback Res. 50 80 347 440 - - 16 4 58 48 44 51 Stithians Res. 112 - - - - - 2 4 19 - - - Stone 111 57 6 - - - 10 54 - 120 214 57 Tehidy C'try Park ------21 56 54 Tresillian River 360 135 29 5 1 5 225 495 345 374 355 247 Trevose Head - 2 - 5 4 4 7 - 90 140 20 - Truro River 617 419 22 16 6 19 489 624 877 752 402 551 Upper Tamar Est. 699 629 336 92 50 350 961 1,135 1,686 1,139 989 708

RING-BILLED GULL - Larus delawarensis Regular vagrant with some birds returning annually to over-winter This species was recorded in increased numbers within a few years of the first record in mainland Cornwall in 1979, perhaps in part owing to increased observer awareness. Numbers have fluctuated from year to year since then, and appeared to peak at the end of the 1980's and early 1990's. However, whilst this species is now a regular sight in Cornwall it remains a rarity. Historic numbers are not shown in the report owing to the difficulty of estimating the number of individual birds when they spend several weeks or months in an area, move extensively around the area and return to sites periodically.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1979 - 2 2 1 ------1980 ------1981 3 3 6 4 5 - - 1 1 1 - - 1982 2 7 6 3 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1983 3 4 2 2 ------4 1984 2 6 8 4 2 ------4 1985 7 9 6 2 1 - - - - 1 3 4

85 1986 1 2 2 2 1 - - - - - 4 4 1987 2 3 7 2 - - 1 1 2 1 2 2 1988 4 5 5 5 2 - - 1 1 1 2 6 1989 5 6 7 6 4 3 3 3 3 3 5 6 1990 11 9 13 13 6 3 2 4 4 3 7 8 1991 16 15 15 4 2 - - - 1 2 2 9 1992 11 11 15 7 3 1 1 1 1 1 3 6 1993 8 7 6 3 2 - - - - - 4 4 1994 3 3 4 2 1 - - - - - 1 5 1995 6 7 5 1 1 1 - - - - 3 3 1996 6 4 3 3 ------6 3 1997 3 5 4 3 1 1 - - - 1 5 6 1998 7 10 6 4 1 - - - - 1 2 8 1999 4 5 2 ------2 2 2000 5 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 - 1 - 11 2001 10 9 9 5 3 2 1 1 1 2 5 7 2002 9 7 4 1 2 - - - - 1 3 5 2003 7 5 4 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 5 4 2004 3 3 2 4 ------4 Camel Est: Second cal birds on 9th Mar and 14th Apr SMC: A first cal on 17th Dec CS. Gannel Est: A first cal on 11th Jan SMC, LW: One on 1st Dec APH. Hayle Est: An adult on 10th - 11th Feb DSF: A second cal on 30th Mar LPW: A second cal on 2nd Apr SMC. Helston Boating Lake: A third cal on 3rd - 9th Jan SFE, SMC: An adult on 16th Feb DE: One on 11th Apr SFE: An adult on 13th - 23rd Dec BSW. Loe Pool: An adult on 13th Dec DP Marazion Beach: A second cal on 23rd Apr KAW. Par Beach Pool: Last year's adult to 16th Jan RL, BSW. Trevorian Pool: An adult on 9th Feb MWa.

MEW GULL - Larus canus (Common Gull) Passage migrant and winter visitor and a few summer Whilst reported numbers fluctuate from year to year, they appear to show that numbers have reduced appreciably in the 2000's by comparison with the 1990's. This year's overall numbers were some forty-four per cent below the average reported during the previous ten years, and the ten-year running average has reduced during each of the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,206 372 88 5 27 1 11 5 22 82 114 762 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 29 35 9 - - - 1 - 3 35 21 19 College Res. 7 1 ------1 12 Fowey Est. 52 5 ------11 20 Gannel Est. 3 - 1 - - - 1 - 1 - - 9 Harlyn Bay 480 150 15 - 2 - 2 13 20 20 276 Hayle Est. 37 18 4 3 - 1 1 1 - 2 2 21 Lynher Est. 116 13 8 1 - - - - 8 - 64 Millbrook Lake 193 81 24 - - - 1 - - 3 11 161 St. Austell Bay 250 ------10 100 St. John's Lake 12 48 - - - - 1 1 3 5 12 22 Siblyback Res. 15 10 ------1 -

86 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus fuscus Common passage migrant and winter visitor that breeds in low numbers The maximum size of flocks at Hayle Estuary indicate an increase from the 1970's into the 1980's, with that level continuing through the 1990's, and then reducing to generally lower levels in the 2000's. A similar trend is shown by flock sizes at Colliford Reservoir, although there was some improvement at most sites this year. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,522 2,784 2,346 566 36 128 310 669 1,273 835 2,418 1,683 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 422 1,214 510 21 16 70 48 234 Colliford Res. 90 46 92 51 4 24 172 45 35 191 1,520 900 Crowdy Res. 34 - - - - 2 12 247 692 - - - Drift Res. 1 2 31 1 1 5 1 4 - - - 4 Fowey Est. 1 - 45 48 1 1 6 4 1 4 8 2 Gannel Est. 55 168 84 5 - - - 27 - - - 105 Gerrans Bay 15 10 - - - 15 28 - 7 5 14 6 Hayle Est. 693 1,034 850 342 4 20 4 130 30 36 34 29 Looe Est. 20 - - - 2 - - 112 - 40 - 170 Lynher Est. 6 18 52 60 - 1 2 - - 2 2 - Sennen Cove - - 120 17 - 36 - - - 92 - - Siblyback Res. 153 71 352 6 - - 68 86 300 370 265 213 St. John's Lake - 8 8 2 - - 2 - 10 - - - Other reports include: Castle-an-Dinas: 165 on 19th Sep and 515 on 11th Nov. Sennen: 161 on 23rd Mar.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL X HERRING GULL hybrid Sennen Cove: One on 24th Mar MTE: One on 15th Oct MTE. Treen: An adult on 28th Mar KAW.

HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus Common breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers appear to have been higher in the mid to late 1990's than they are today. A flock of four thousand was reported on the Camel Estuary in 1995, but only one thousand two hundred and seventy-five this year. An exceptional flock of three thousand eight hundred birds was reported at Park Clay Pit on 12th Jun. Notwithstanding that count, overall numbers this year were well below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3,943 2,720 3,428 3,448 1,407 6,386 2,754 5,342 4,173 3,680 5,424 4,776 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 437 584 663 432 - 295 302 - 1,107 971 1,274 412 Carrick Roads - - 30 20 25 35 8 63 70 16 28 - College Res. 20 7 32 79 20 9 22 22 10 110 123 253 Colliford Res. 24 2 28 9 12 105 15 2 2 2 21

87 Crowdy Res. 35 - - 330 710 - - Drift Res. 61 46 215 105 52 69 93 45 - 170 - 180 Fowey Est. 276 165 570 360 115 135 337 586 510 625 279 521 Gannel Est. 511 550 320 882 90 380 160 450 - - 1,000 850 Gerrans Bay - 35 30 60 - 76 85 153 15 30 55 65 Hayle Est. 514 420 210 882 405 430 365 2,822 710 482 680 705 Helford River 112 75 24 - 147 - 57 41 94 - 187 - Loe Pool/Helston 32 51 44 63 110 67 86 65 37 54 81 64 Looe Est. ------150 - - 150 895 460 Lynher Est. 220 240 323 67 45 71 140 33 300 450 117 292 Maer Lake 18 16 8 6 - - - 14 15 10 - - Millbrook Lake 166 136 67 118 - 196 129 134 - 58 382 260 Mount's Bay 5 52 10 10 24 250 10 1 5 5 - 6 Percuil River 70 17 12 - 21 52 81 26 29 20 115 71 Porth Res. 6 8 84 16 28 - 96 42 - - 8 12 St. Austell Bay 50 50 33 38 42 38 58 48 100 58 46 58 St. John's Lake 300 - 200 140 - - 324 100 - 175 60 220 Siblyback Res. 10 10 15 - - - 6 12 10 27 3 4 Stone 2 32 7 3 6 4 3 3 - 10 7 10 Swanpool 42 24 92 - - - - - 23 - - 69 Tresillian River 6 18 33 6 16 85 7 3 10 18 20 16 Truro River 79 119 239 74 165 70 56 129 101 30 96 110 Upper Tamar Est. 28 57 138 74 50 199 58 53 265 105 63 107 Other reports include: Hannafore: 179 on 17th Jan. Park Clay Pit: 3,800 on 12th Jun Trevose Head: 700 on 24th Jan. ***** Birds showing characteristics of the Scandinavian form L. a. argentatus were noted as follows: Camel Est: A third cal on 12th Mar SMC: An adult on 16th - 19th Dec SMC. Crowdy Res: An adult on 4th Sep SMC: An adult on 5th Oct IK. Gorran Haven: One on 7th Jan DHP. Land's End: A second cal on 5th Feb MWa. Trevescan: A fourth cal on 16th Sep KAW.

WESTERN YELLOW-LEGGED GULL - Larus michahellis Scarce visitor Numbers reported have increased steadily over the last twenty years, but it is not known if this is owing to increased numbers or increased observer awareness, or a combination of both. Overall numbers were eighty-five per cent above the average of the last ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 9 5 9 2 1 2 6 4 2 4 7 12 Camel Est: An adult on 8th - 17th Jan SMC: A second adult on 12th - 23rd Jan SMC: An adult on 7th Feb SMC: An adult on 26th - 27th Feb SMC: An adult on 4th Mar SMC: A second cal on 15th Mar SMC: A first cal on 24th Aug SMC Colliford Res: a third cal on 10th Mar SMC, LW: Two adults on 18th Jul JCN: Two adults and a third cal on 27th Jul SMC: An adult on 13th Aug SMC: Five adults and a second cal on 4th Nov SMC: Adults on 6th,13th and 25th Nov SMC: Two on 28th Nov SMC: A first cal on 30th Nov SMC: Adults on 2nd and 31st Dec SMC: A second cal on 4th - 31st Dec may

88 have been the bird at Dozmary SMC: A first cal on 5th Dec DC, SCM. Crowdy Res: Adults on 10th and 14th Aug, and 4th and 29th Sep SMC. Crows-an-Wra: A second cal on 26th Jan MWa. Dozmary Pool: A second cal on 2nd Dec SMC. Gannel Est: Two adults on 20th Jan SMC: An adult on 20th Mar SGR. Gwithian: Two adults on 26th Jan LPW. Hayle Est: An adult on 25th Feb CMo, LPW, DSF, DSF: Two adults on 2nd Mar LPW with one on 3rd Mar MWa, LPW: An adult on 20th Jul SMC: An adult on 24th Jul DSF: One on 24th Dec DSF. Kingsand: A fourth cal on 1st Jan SMC. Lanreath: An adult on 18th Jul SCM. Millbrook: An adult on 13th Mar JCN: An adult on 4th Dec JCN. Nanjizal: A first cal on 12th Dec KAW. Park Clay Pit: A third cal on 12th Jun SMC: A third cal on 7th Dec SMC. St. John's Lake: An adult on 28th Feb JCN. Sennen Cove: A second cal all year MTE: An adult on 27th Feb MTE: An adult on 23rd Mar MWa: A second cal on 9th Oct MTE: A third cal on 9th Oct MTE: A second cal on 15th Oct MTE: An adult on 11th - 13th Dec MTE: A second cal on 13th Dec MTE. Siblyback Res: An adult on 13th Oct JCN. Treve Common: A first cal on 13th Dec MWa. Trevose Head: A second cal on 29th Apr SMC.

CASPIAN GULL - Larus cachinnans Very rare visitor Sennen Cove: A first cal on 10th Oct MTE. This species was only 'split' quite recently and is a bird of the east coast rather than the far west; the Sennen bird appeared during prolonged strong easterly winds. Birds with first calendar plumage are by far the easiest to identify.

ICELAND GULL - Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor and rare passage migrant Estimating the number of individual birds can be extremely difficult when they spend several weeks or months in an area, move extensively around the area and return to sites periodically. Only by making detailed notes of plumage details can observers identify individuals, keep track of their movements and calculate how many birds are involved in the sightings. Numbers vary from year to year, but this year's total of three, the same as last year, was well below the average of the previous ten years

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1968 1 ------1971 - - - 2 ------1972 - 1 3 1 ------1973 1 ------1974 1 2 2 2 1 ------1 1975 - 1 2 1 ------1 1976 - 1 ------1977 1 2 1 ------1 1978 - 6 6 6 ------1 1979 1 1 3 2 2 ------1 1980 1 - 1 - 1 ------

89 1981 5 7 5 6 2 - - - - - 1 - 1982 2 5 5 3 2 ------3 1983 10 13 7 7 2 ------4 1984 29 35 11 2 ------1 1985 2 6 3 3 ------1 1986 1 2 1 - - 2 - - - - - 1 1987 1 1 1 ------1 - - 1988 5 6 6 1 1 ------2 1989 3 2 1 1 ------1 1990 1 - 2 2 ------3 1991 10 5 8 8 2 - 1 1 - - - 4 1992 4 5 4 2 2 2 - - - - - 1 1993 2 5 3 1 1 ------1994 2 3 3 3 2 - - - - - 2 1 1995 2 4 3 1 2 - - - - 2 - 1996 3 6 3 2 4 - - - - 1 1 2 1997 3 2 3 4 - - - 1 - - 7 4 1998 8 11 5 9 3 2 - - - - 1 1 1999 16 19 2 13 3 4 - 1 - - - 1 2000 8 4 6 1 2 ------2001 - 4 5 2 1 - - - - - 1 1 2002 5 6 9 1 1 ------2003 1 1 ------1 - 2004 - - 2 - - - - - _ - 1 Camel Est: A fourth cal on 15th Mar SMC, LW. Hayle Est: A second cal on 5th - 6th Mar LPW, MWa, SMC. Portreath: A second cal on 29th - 30th Dec BSW.

GLAUCOUS GULL - Larus hyperboreus Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant Estimating the number of individual birds can be extremely difficult when they spend several weeks or months in an area, move extensively around the area and return to sites periodically. Only by making detailed notes of plumage details can observers identify individuals, keep track of their movements and calculate how many birds are involved in the sightings. There were relatively few records until January 1984 when there was an influx into the county. Some of those birds returned in subsequent years, but numbers gradually dropped until the winter of 1982/3 when there was another influx. The next influx was in January 1998, but numbers have since reduced to their present low.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1969 - 1 ------1970 1 ------1 - - 1971 2 1 ------1 - 1972 1 - 2 1 ------2 1973 1 ------1974 6 6 1 1 - - - - - 1 - 3 1975 - - 1 ------1 1 1976 1 2 1 - 1 - - - 1 - 3 - 1977 5 4 3 4 ------1 1978 20 20 19 19 ------3 3 1979 11 9 10 5 5 5 - - - 1 2 2 1980 9 9 9 8 5 - - - - 1 2 2 1981 10 10 10 5 3 - - - - - 1 2

90 1982 1 1 1 ------3 6 1983 10 7 7 ------3 1 - 1984 7 13 8 3 1 - 1 - 1 - - 3 1985 3 6 3 2 3 1 1 - - - 2 4 1986 8 8 2 2 3 1 - - - - 1 - 1987 2 2 3 1 1 ------1988 10 4 3 2 ------1 1989 2 5 1 - 1 ------1990 - 5 1 1 - - - - 1 1 - 1 1991 6 5 5 1 2 2 - - - 2 2 1 1992 1 2 2 2 - - - 1 - - - - 1993 2 4 - 2 - - - - - 1 - - 1994 3 4 1 ------2 1 1995 4 4 4 1 - - - 1 - - 1 1 1996 9 6 5 5 - - - - 1 2 1 1 1997 2 3 3 5 3 1 - - 1 - 2 2 1998 13 13 8 10 4 2 2 2 2 3 1 1 1999 4 9 10 8 ------1 2000 3 3 4 3 1 2 1 - - - - 1 2001 2 5 3 6 1 ------2002 - 4 2 6 1 - - - - 1 - 2 2003 - 2 2 1 1 - - - - - 1 - 2004 2 1 2 1 - - - - - 3 - 1 Adams Hill, St. Buryan: a second cal on 9th Mar JL. Camel Est: a second cal on 7th and 13th Mar SMC. Hayle Est: A second cal on 24th - 25th Jan DSF: One on 28th Jan DSF: One on 21st - 22nd Feb DSF: One on 27th Feb DSF: A second cal on 16th Mar CMo, MWa, LPW: A first cal on 16th Oct LPW. Marazion: A second cal on 1st - 4th Jan BSW, SMC. Mount's Bay: A first cal on 27th Oct AHs. Sennen Cove: A second cal on 19th Apr was also seen at Land's End MTE, MWa: A first cal on 15th Oct MTE, MWa. Wiggle Cliff: An adult on 2nd Dec SCM.

GLAUCOUS GULL X HERRING GULL hybrid Sennen Cove: One on 28th Apr MTE.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus marinus Breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers vary from year to year with no particular trend. Overall numbers were below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ,180 1,164 1,002 380 258 334 278 696 469 360 222 1,155 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. 802 784 741 232 - 37 44 45 70 117 98 451 Carrick Roads - - 15 - - - - 5 28 5 - - Colliford Res. - 2 5 5 2 4 5 2 - - - 21 Crowdy Res. 1 - - - - 18 10 10 10 - - 1 Drift Res. 3 1 - 1 3 1 - 3 - - - 4

91 Fowey Est. 4 6 12 18 12 4 14 2 2 10 3 14 Gannel Est. 128 115 27 15 23 14 22 - - - - 35 Gerrans Bay 28 26 15 - - 18 17 - 8 6 5 17 Hayle Est. 121 173 105 76 33 41 45 42 40 29 62 37 Helford River 8 1 - - 1 2 3 2 3 - 5 - Loe Pool 26 24 2 14 12 11 4 - - 7 18 14 Looe Est. - - - - 95 - 80 500 86 120 - 520 Lynher Est. 16 10 32 3 1 23 2 2 12 13 7 9 Millbrook/St John's 2 10 6 8 - 4 3 - 5 10 6 14 Par 4 2 2 2 2 1 2 1 22 6 2 12 Percuil River 8 - - - 12 11 16 2 - 2 2 - Siblyback Res. - - 1 - - - 6 4 - - 3 2 Upper Tamar Est. 9 5 19 4 6 6 4 5 4 5 10 - Other reports include: Mount's Bay: Sixty-six on 23rd Aug.

BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE - Rissa tridactyla (Kittiwake) Breeding summer visitor, abundant passage migrant and winter visitor Measured in terms of the largest flock sizes at the usual seawatching sites, numbers in recent years appear to be much lower than in the past. Reports include: Pendeen Watch: 7,456 on 25th Oct. Porthgwarra: 807 on 30th Jan. Sennen Cove: 2,500 on 19th Mar. Trevose Head: 2,929 on 11th Jan: 777 on 7th Feb: 580 on 16th Apr: 696 on 8th May: 576 on 16th Oct.

SANDWICH TERN - Sterna sandvicensis Common passage migrant and rare winter visitor Numbers vary from year to year but with no particular trend. Overall numbers this year were the highest of the last thirteen years and approximately fifty-three per cent above the average of the previous ten years. The earliest report since 1933 (excluding the over-wintering birds in 1979 and 1991) was on 4th February 1995 on the Hayle Estuary, and the latest also in Carbis Bay on 24th December 2002. Assuming that the bird on Hayle Estuary on 15th January was over-wintering, the earliest report this year was on 22nd February at Percuil River, and the latest at Hannafore on 27th November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 64 723 138 45 474 1,137 625 166 2 - Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. - - 1 35 9 5 51 47 33 20 - - Gorran Haven - - - 23 4 - 1 1 - - - - Harlyn Bay - - 3 5 5 - 1 14 11 - - - Hayle Est. 1 - 1 13 - - 6 70 6 5 - - Lynher Est. ------9 30 5 - - - Mounts Bay - - 3 18 - 6 - - 3 1 - - Newquay - - - - - 3 3 7 1 - - - Pendeen Watch ------22 70 6 - - Porthgwarra - - - 8 1 8 2 - - -

92 Sennen Cove - - 3 6 - - - - 2 - - St. Austell Bay - - 7 50 10 - 20 10 4 - - St. Ives Bay - - - 5 - 2 8 20 45 2 - - St. John's Lake - - - 11 15 23 18 4 - - Trevose Head area - - 1 3 1 1 10 24 35 31 - - Whitsand Bay - - 2 4 - 17 - 1 1 - Other reports include: Killigerran Head: Thirty on 23rd Aug.

COMMON TERN - Sterna hirundo Passage migrant Numbers fluctuate greatly from year to year, 'good' years usually resulting from particularly large day counts e.g. five hundred birds were reported past St. Ives on 30th September 1978 and five hundred on 30th August 1980. Numbers were approximately twenty-nine per cent above the average of the previous ten years. The earliest report since 1937 was on 3rd March 2002 at Cargreen, and the latest was at Sennen Cove on 30th November 2002. The earliest report this year was on 15th March on the Camel Estuary, and the latest at Kingsmill Lake on 6th November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 23 9 5 88 458 51 24 1 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Camel Est. - - 1 - - - 3 - 1 - - Lynher Est. ------19 - - - - Mount's Bay - - - - - 4 1 37 - - - - Pendeen ------23 - - - - Rame Head ------32 - - - - St. Austell Bay - - - 5 - - - - 4 2 - - St. Ives Bay ------14 5 - - - - St. John's Lake - - - - - 1 1 2 2 5 - - Trevose Head area - - - 4 2 - 31 74 17 1 - -

ARCTIC TERN - Sterna paradisaea Passage migrant Numbers vary considerably from year to year. The largest day count during the past twenty-five years was two hundred past St. Ives on 2nd September 1988, but it was only sixteen this year. This year's total of one hundred and ten was a little above the average of the previous ten years. Historically, the earliest report since 1942 was on 3rd April at Killigerran Head, and the latest at St. Ives on 23rd November 1986. This year the earliest was at Trevose Head on 1st April, the earliest ever, and the latest on 30th October at Penzance. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - _ - 12 13 - 2 17 34 32 - - Cremyll: One on 25th Sep. Downderry: Ten on 2nd May. Drift Res: One on 8th Aug. Fowey Est: Two on 4th May: One on 22nd Aug. Godrevy Point: One on 20th Aug.

93 Hayle Est: Singles on 19th Sep and 14th Oct. Lynher Est: One on 14th Oct. Pendeen Watch: Two on 13th Aug: One on 20th Aug: Six on 24th Aug: One on 21st Sep and nine on 23rd Sep. Penzance: One on 30th Oct. St. Ives Island: One on 5th May: Two on 21st Sep. St. John's Lake: Two on 3rd Jul: One on 15th Oct. Tamar Est: One on 29th Aug. Towan Head: Two on 14th Sep. Trevose Head: Twelve on 22nd Apr: Two on 11th Aug: Singles on 14th and 24th Aug and 2nd Sep: Three on 11th Sep: One on 12th Sep: Six on 13th Sep: Two's on 14th and 22nd Sep: Three on 24th Sep: Seven on 2nd Oct: Sixteen on 4th Oct: Two on 5th and 6th Oct: One on 15th Oct.

LITTLE TERN - Sterna albifrons Uncommon passage migrant There are considerable variations in annual numbers, between two hundred and nineteen in 1986 and thirteen in 1996. This year's total of ninety-two is the highest since 1986 and is almost three times the average of the previous ten years. The earliest report since 1935 was on 3rd April 1983 at Mevagissey, and the latest at Clodgy Point on 23rd October 1977. The earliest this year was on 24th April at Downderry, and the latest at Pendeen Watch on 21st September. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 4 - - 23 64 1 - - - Camel Est: One on 27th Aug. Downderry: One on 24th Apr. Harlyn Bay: Three on 16th Jul. Hayle Est: One on 10th Aug: Nineteen on 12th Aug: Ten on 13th Aug. Lynher Est: One on 28th Jul - 1st Aug. Marazion: One on 27th Apr. Pendeen: One on 21st Sep. Porth Kidney: Nineteen on 29th Jul: Two on 8th Aug: Ten on 13th Aug. Trevose Head: Two on 29th Apr: Thirteen on 13th Aug: One on 14th Aug: Six on 17th Aug: One on 19th Aug.

BLACK TERN - Chlidonias niger Uncommon passage migrant There are considerable variations in annual numbers, between two hundred and five in 1997 and eighteen in 1991. If one excludes the very good year of 1997, this year's total of fifty is above the average of the previous ten years. The earliest report since 1940 was on 12th April at the Upper Tamar Lake, and the latest on the Tresillian River on 3rd November 1994. The earliest report this year was on 8th August at Hayle Estuary, and the latest at Newlyn on 30th October. Black Tern (Martin Elliot)

94 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------42 3 5 - Hayle Est: One on 8th Aug: Two on 13th Aug: Kingsmill Lake: One on 16th Sep. Long Rock Pool: One on 28th Oct and two on 29th Oct. Lower Tamar Lake: One on 26th Aug. Newlyn: Two on 30th Oct. Pendeen Watch: Two's on 13th and 20th Aug: Ten on 24th Aug. Porth Kidney: One on 12th Aug. Rumps Point: One on 21st Sep. St. Ives: One on 21st Sep. Towan Head: Three on 23rd Aug. Trevose Head: Three on 11th Aug: Four on 13th Aug: Eight on 14th Aug: Singles on 15th, 17th and 19th Aug: Two on 21st Aug.

COMMON GUILLEMOT - Uria aalge (Guillemot) Breeding summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Day counts in the thousands were received quite regularly in the past but none have been received since 1996. The count of seven hundred and sixty-eight at Porthgwarra is the largest since 1996. Reports include: Armed Knight: Thirty pairs on 8th Jun. Porthgwarra: 768 on 30th Jan: 101 on 22nd May. The Brisons: Thirty pairs on 8th Jun. The Sisters: 300 on 27th Jun.

RAZORBILL - Alca torda Breeding summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor The last really large day count was in 1994 when 6,000 were reported past Rumps Point on 30th December. This year's high count was at Porthgwarra on 30th Jan. Reports include: Armed Knight: Thirty pairs on 8th Jun. Pendeen Watch: 527 on 6th Oct. Porthgwarra: 510 on 30th Jan: 153 on 22nd May: 103 on 9th Oct. Rumps Point: 100 on 28th Mar. The Brisons: Eighty pairs on 8th Jun. Trevose Head: 190 on 16th Apr: 182 on 19th Sep.

AUK sp. (Common Guillemot or Razorbill) Reports include: Pendeen Watch: 1,606 on 14th Oct: 13,466 on 25th Oct: 2,268 on 11th Feb. Rumps Point: 2,000 on 15th Oct. Sennen Cove: 4,200 on 19th Mar. Trevose Head: 2,430 on 14th Jan: 1,450 on 24th Jan: 1,079 on 31st Jan: 1,170 on 1st Feb: 1,508 on 4th Oct: 2,561 on 6th Oct: 5,042 on 15th Oct: 3,489 on 16th Oct: 1,005 on 17th Nov.

95 BLACK GUILLEMOT - Cepphus grylle Occasional visitor that sometimes over-winters Gorran Haven: One on 15th Dec DHP. The mainland total now stands at c. 82 since 1930. St Ives Bay is the most regular site with sixteen records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 19 8 4 7 6 2 - - 4 11 9 12

LITTLE AUK - Alle alle Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor Records of this species are very weather dependant. There were obviously some 'good blows' in 1979 when St. Ives recorded one hundred and thirty-two on 15th December, sixty-five on 28th December, fifty-five on 29th December and thirty-four on 31 st December, and Porthgwarra had one hundred and fourteen on 11th November. This year's total of thirteen compares with an average of twenty-six between 1943 and 2003, and of thirty-four for the last ten years.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1943 - 38 ------1946 - 1 - - - 1 1 - - - - - 1948 ------1 - 2 1949 - - 1 ------1 - 1 1950 - 60 ------1951 ------1 1952 1 - - 2 - - - - - 1 - - 1953 1 1 ------1 1 1954 - 1 ------1955 - 1 ------1 - - 1957 - 1 ------1 1958 ------8 1959 2 ------1 - 1 1960 1 ------10 2 1962 1 ------9 3 1 1963 - 1 ------22 - 1964 ------1 - 1965 - - 1 ------26 7 1966 9 1 2 ------5 7 6 1967 - 1 1 ------6 - 4 1968 ------1 1969 1 ------1 - 1 1970 - - - 1 - - - 1 - 3 2 - 1971 ------10 2 1972 2 1 ------2 - 1974 - 1 2 ------1 1975 3 ------1976 - - 2 - - - - - 1 1 - - 1977 - 1 ------5 1 1978 2 - 1 - - - - - 2 1 1 13 1979 ------1 205 343 1980 7 2 15 ------1 - - 1981 - • ------2 16 5 1982 1 - 4 ------2 3 1983 2 ------4

96 Little Crake, Marazion Marsh November 2004 - Dave Flumm Ferruginous Duck, Long Rock Pool November 2004 - Mashuq Ahmad

Little Plover, Davidstow Airfield September 2004 - Adrian Davey

Common Crane, Hayle Estury October 2004 - Gary Cockill

Squacco Heron, Portmellon Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Drift Reservoir June 2004 - Adrian Davey August 2004 - Mashuq Ahmad • Semipalmated Sandpiper, Drift Reservoir • Semipalmated Sandpiper, Drift Reservoir September 2004 - Mashuq Ahmad September 2004 - John Ryan

• Laughing Gull • Western Yellow-legged Gull Hayle Estury.August 2004 - John Chappie Sennen Cove, July 2004 - Martin Elliot

• Western Yellow-legged Gull Caspian Gull Sennen Cove, February 2004 - Martin Elliot Sennen Cove, October 2004 - Martin Elliot • Alpine Swift, Marazion Marsh • Blyth's Pipit,Treve Common March 2004 - John Chappie November 2004 - John Chappie

• Blyth's Pipit,Treve Common • Blyth's Pipit,Treve Common November 2004 - Mark Warren November 2004 - Mark Warren

Olive-backed Pipit, Porthgwarra • Red-throated Pipit, Porthgwarra November 2004 - Pete Walsh August 2004 - Gordon Giles • 'Syke's' Wagtail, Nanjizal September 2004 - Kester Wilson • Bluethroat, Land's End May 2004 - John Ryan

• Whinchat Gary Cockill Melodious Warbler, Land's End August 2004 - Mark Warren

Dusky Warbler, Nanjizal Pallas' Warbler, Land's End January 2004 - Ian Wilson October 2004 - Mark Warren 1984 10 3 ------1 5 - - 1985 ------7 - 1986 1 2 ------1 6 - 1987 ------2 1 - 1988 19 5 3 ------1 1 1 1989 ------1 5 1 1990 1 4 ------13 15 41 1991 17 1 ------2 10 4 1992 - 3 ------1 5 - 1993 1 ------2 2 15 1994 9 ------1 2 1995 2 ------1 - ' 2 1 1996 4 4 1 ------42 38 6 1997 6 8 6 ------1 8 4 1998 18 - - 1 - - - - - 5 36 1 1999 2 ------1 2000 2 ------5 2 14 2001 - 1 ------3 44 6 2002 3 6 1 ------2 7 8 2003 2 1 ------5 17 - 2004 1 1 - - 1 - - - - 5 3 2 Jubilee Pool: One on 28th Nov BD et al. Pendeen Watch: One on 6th Oct BD: One on 17th Dec MWa. Porthgwarra: One on 11th Feb SMC, LW: One on 12th Nov JL. Portscatho: One on 22nd Nov SMC. Rosemullion Head: Three on 27th Oct and one on 28th Oct PMcC. Swanpool: One on 30th - 31st Oct AMJD, DP: One on 3rd - 5th Nov IE, CS, DE. Trevose Head: One on 24th Jan SMC: One on 2nd May was long dead SMC: One on 18th Dec SMC. The county mainland total increases to c. 1,463 since 1943. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 131 111 40 4 1 - - 1 5 131 523 516

ATLANTIC PUFFIN - Fratercula arctica (Puffin) Uncommon summer visitor, passage migrant and infrequent winter visitor Reports include: Porthgwarra: Twenty-seven on 17th and twenty-five on 18th Mar: Twelve on 10th Apr: Thirty-four on 28th Apr: Ten on 20th Jul. The Mouls: Sixteen on 1st Jun.

FERAL PIGEON / ROCK PIGEON - Columba livia (Rock Dove) Breeding resident Pure Rock Pigeons are unlikely to have survived inter-breeding with feral pigeons.

STOCK PIGEON - Columba oenas (Stock Dove) Breeding residents, dispersing birds and winter visitors There were relatively few reports and no records of very large flocks. Reports include: Gannel Est: Sixty-five on 16th Dec. Sennen: 250 on 9th Nov

97 COMMON WOOD PIGEON - Columba palumbus (Woodpigeon) Breeding resident, passage migrant, dispersing birds and winter visitor Numbers vary from year to year with no particular pattern. Reports include: Land's End: 120 on 6th Nov. Nanjizal: 120 on 26th Apr St. Levan: 120 on 5th Nov. Tregirls, Padstow: 300 on 13th Oct

EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE - Streptopelia decaocto (Collared Dove) Resident breeder with some dispersal in spring and autumn The first Cornish report of this species was on 10th June 1959 when one was seen at Trethewey near Porthcurno, and another bird was seen the following year on 24th September at Trethvas, Lizard. Numbers have grown steadily and quite large flocks are now being seen on an annual basis. It is difficult to comment on current numbers as only very large flocks are reported from the majority of sites, whereas it is known that smaller numbers are present at many Eurasian Collared Doves (Kester Wilson) sites throughout the year.

Reports include: Brew, Sennen: 120 on 17th May and 127 on 24th May. Nanjizal: 120 on 23rd May and 162 on 25th May. Skewjack Farm: 126 on 18th May and 175 on 22nd May

EUROPEAN TURTLE DOVE - Streptopelia turtur (Turtle Dove) Passage migrant and occasional summer resident that probably bred in 1981, 1978 and 1977. Numbers were above the average of the previous five years. The earliest report since 1931 (excluding birds thought to be wintering in 1985/6 and 1992/3) was on 15th March 1996 at St. Ives, and the latest at Holmbush on 11th November 1984. This year the earliest was on 6th April at Cross Lanes, Cury, and the latest at Goldsithney on 30th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 7 48 8 2 1 8 3 - - Brew, Sennen: Four on 17th and 18th May, Six on 19th May and two on 20th May: One on 26th May: Three on 2nd Jun: One on 7th Jun. Bude: One on 27th Oct. Catchall: One on 19th Apr. Coldrose Farm, Truro: Two on 20th - 21st May. Cross Lanes, Cury: One on 6th Apr. Davidstow Airfield: One on 28th Apr. Goldsithney: One on 30th Oct. Land's End: Singles on 26th Apr, 9th and 11 th May: Four on 15th May: One on 17th - 18th May: Two on 22nd and one on 23rd May: One on 26th May: One on 6th Jun: Two on 8th Jun: One on 6th Jul.

98 Little Kelynack: One on 6th - 8th Oct. Ludgvan: One on 2nd - 3 rd May. Lynher Est: One on 23rd May. Marazion Marsh: Three on 6th May. Nanjizal: Singles on 26th Apr, 2nd and 4th May: Two on 16th - 17th May: Three on 23rd May: Two on 25th May: Singles on 29th Jul and 31st Aug - 1st Sep: Two's on 3rd and 5th Sep: Singles on 10th and 14th Sep. Nanquidno: One on 5th Jun. Par Beach: One on 2nd Sep. Penlee Point: One on 22nd May. Polgigga: One on 30th May. Porthgwarra: One on 18th May. Skewjack: One on 24th May. Skewjack Farm: Five on 22nd May: Two on 27th May. Tregunna: One on 29th May. Trethewey: One on 26th May. Trevilley: One on 26th May. Trevose Head: Two on 26th Apr: Singles on 11th May and 10th Sep.

COMMON CUCKOO - Cuculus canorus (Cuckoo) Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Numbers reported this year were similar to recent years. The earliest report since 1929 was on 19th February 1968 at Newquay, and the latest at St Columb on 30th November 1984. The earliest report this year was on 16th April at Windmill Farm, and the latest on Goonhilly Downs on 9th August. Reports include: Goonhilly Downs: Three on 16th May: One on 9th Aug. Goss Moor: Three on 8th Jun. Smallacombe Plantation: Three on 3rd Jun. Windmill Farm: One on 16th Apr.

BARN OWL - Tyto alba Scarce breeding resident with some dispersal The 2004 Barn Owl Survey Report is included later in this report.

LITTLE OWL - Athene noctua Very scarce breeding resident The 1937 report mentions that this species was 'black listed' by Somerset, Devon and Cornwall County Councils for up to five years on unscientific evidence (there was even a theory that they killed birds and mammals in order to later enjoy a feast of carrion beetles at the corpse) and that it had become a rare bird in Cornwall. There was an increase in reports in the early part of the 1990's but numbers have reduced steadily since. There were reports from five sites, three more than last year, but this species' clawhold in the county is at best tenuous.

Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1976 - - - - - 8 - 4 1 1 3 - 1977 - - 2 4 4 3 3 6 5 3 3 2 1978 - - 1 1 1 2 2 1 3 3 - - 1979 1 - 1 4 4 6 4 4 4 1 2 1

99 1980 1 - 1 1 1 - 2 2 3 4 2 2 1981 - 1 2 - 2 2 - 1 3 1 1 - 1982 1 1 - 3 5 3 2 3 2 1 1 - 1983 3 1 2 1 7 4 4 5 1 9 5 3 1984 1 2 2 2 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 2 1985 3 3 5 5 9 4 10 7 4 7 5 2 1986 - - - - 4 8 5 2 4 2 1 - 1987 - - - 3 3 11 11 2 2 3 - 1 1988 1 1 1 1 - 1 7 3 3 2 3 3 1989 3 2 - 5 3 4 3 7 1 3 2 3 1990 2 2 2 5 2 2 6 2 5 5 3 2 1991 8 8 6 10 6 6 7 7 7 10 7 8 1992 8 5 6 6 7 6 5 6 8 9 6 9 1993 11 5 5 6 5 5 7 4 6 4 6 4 1994 8 8 8 9 8 8 8 10 9 9 9 9 1995 3 4 2 3 1 3 2 2 1 2 3 1 1996 2 1 3 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 - 1 1997 1 - - 2 1 ------1998 3 4 4 4 4 6 2 4 3 3 2 - 1999 1 1 4 3 3 4 3 2 1 1 - - 2000 3 2 3 4 3 6 7 1 2 1 - - 2001 2 3 - - 1 1 1 2 1 - 2 1 2002 1 - 2 2 - - 1 - 1 1 - - 2003 - - - - 1 ------1 2004 1 1 - - - - 1 3 1 1 1 - Polbathic: One on 1st Aug - 1st Nov RF&MC. Pentire, Polzeath: One on 18th Jan SMC. Rumps Point, Pentire: One on 20th Aug CS. Treveor Farm: One on 11th Feb DHP. Withnoe: One on 18th Jul BT and 1st Aug SMC.

TAWNY OWL - Strix aluco Resident There were reports from twenty-seven locations, nine less than last year. Reports include: Hustyn: Three on 14th Jun. Kings Wood: Four on 29th Apr.

LONG-EARED OWL - Asio otus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor that occasionally breeds Land's End: One on 1st Nov MWa. Nanjizal: A first cal on 5th Sep KAW: One on 11th Nov KAW. Trevorian: One on 15th Nov MWa. The county mainland total is now c. 117 since 1967. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 8 11 8 7 5 6 - 6 5 21 19 17 * four undated

100 SHORT-EARED OWL - Asio flammeus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Monthly totals since 1977 show fluctuations between years but no particular trend. Numbers this year were the highest since 1997 and seventy-four per cent higher than the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May J un Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 3 1 - - - 1 24 17 8 Adams Hill, St. Buryan: One on 25th Nov. Brew, Sennen: One on 14th Oct. Goonhilly Downs: Singles on 14th Nov, 5th, 19th and 27th Dec. Land's End/Treve Common: One on 16th Apr: Two on 10th Oct, four on 11th Oct and eight on 12th Oct: Two on 19th Oct and one on 28th Oct: One on 1st and 2nd and four on 3rd Nov: One on 11th Nov: One on 22nd Nov: Singles on 26th, 27th, 29th and 30th Nov: One on 3rd and two on 4th Dec. Marazion Marsh: Singles on 2nd and 12th Nov. Men-an-Tol: One on 13th Nov. Nanjizal: Two on 12th Oct were presumably some of the Land's End birds. Nanquidno: One on 31st Oct. Penlee Point, Rame Head: Two on 16th and one on 17th Oct: One on 29th - 30th Oct. Porthgwarra: One on 6th Sep: One on 18th Oct: Five on 30th Oct and three on 31st Oct. Porth Joke: One on 30th Dec. Rosenannon Downs: One on 23rd Nov and two on 25th Nov. St. Agnes Head: One on 3rd Nov. St. Loy One on 13th Oct. Trevose Head: Singles on 1st Apr, 23rd - 24th Apr, 1st - 2nd May and 1st Nov. Trewey Common: One on 1st Dec. Upper Fowey Valley: One on 3rd Dec. Windmill Farm: Singles on 14th Oct and 28th Nov.

EUROPEAN NIGHTJAR - Caprimulgus europaeus (Nightjar) Scarce breeding summer visitor and rare passage migrant The Nightjar was formerly a more common breeding species in the county, but is now restricted to a small number of sites. The earliest report since 1932 was on 28th April 1993 at Boswednack, and the latest at Nanjizal on 21st October 1996. The first report this year was on 22nd May in West Penwith, and the last on The Lizard on 3rd August. Breeding season information was received from the following areas. Figures represent maximum number of 'churring' males. 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 Bodmin Moor Site 1 - 1 - 1 3 5 4 1 Site 2 1 ------Lizard - Site 1 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 1 Site 2 - - - - - 2 3 2 Site 3 2 2 ------Newquay Site 1 - 1 2 1 2 2 - 1 Site 2 2 ------

101 West Penwith Site 1 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 Site 2 3 1 - - 2 2 2 1

Total 14 10 8 8 13 15 13

COMMON SWIFT - Apus apus (Swift) Passage migrant and breeding summer visitor Numbers recorded can vary appreciably from year to year. This was perhaps an average year for recent times. The earliest report since 1932 was on 6th February 1995 at St Ives, and the latest on 29th November at Godrevy Point. The first report this year was at St Ives on 20th Mar, and the last on 9th September at Marazion. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 366 1,127 750 2,409 326 30 - - - Reports include: Chynhalls Cliffs: 180 on 7th Jul. Cremyll: 250 on 17th Jul. Land's End: 200 on 6th Jul. Maker Heights: 100 on 31st Jul. Marazion: 165 on 1st May Pentire Point West: 200 on 17th Jul. Rame Head: 200 on 21st Jul Trevose Head: 155 on 6th Jul. Windmill Farm: 120 on 4th Aug. Withnoe: 180 on 31st Jul

SWIFT sp.

Land's End: One on 30th Oct. St. Levan: One on 4th Nov.

ALPINE SWIFT - Apus melba Rare vagrant

Marazion Marsh: One on 13th - 14th Mar was also seen at Mousehole in the evening SMcM. The mainland total is now c. 24 since 1969. Records are well spread, but with most along the south coast. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 3 9 3 2 2 1 2 2 - -

LITTLE SWIFT - Apus affinis Very rare vagrant Porthcothan: One on 2nd Jun POK, YS-H. The mainland total is now c. 4 since 1981. Previous records were at Skewjack in 1981, Porthgwarra in 1998 and Land's End in 2002.

102 Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 1 1

COMMON KINGFISHER - Alcedo atthis (Kingfisher) Scarce breeding resident with some dispersal, migrant and winter visitor Reports were received from eighty-six sites, fifteen more than last year. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 30 11 5 9 4 7 19 20 27 36 34 21 Reports include: Drift Res: Four on 4th Aug: Three on 6th Aug, 21st - 22nd Aug, 22nd Sep and 7th Oct. Hayle Est: Three on 2nd Nov. Tresillian River: Three on 17th Oct. West Looe: Three on 2nd Jan.

HOOPOE - Upupa epops Scarce drift migrant, mainly spring overshoots The average number of records in the 1970's was seven per annum, increasing to almost thirteen in the 1980's and to fourteen in the 1990's. Whilst this year's total of seven was only half of the average for the last ten years, significant fluctuations from year to year are normal. Antony House: One on 22nd - 24th Apr LACT. Botallack: One on 12th Mar per PAF. Chynhalls Point: One on 27th Sep RJB. Nanquidno: One on 8th - 18th Sep CMo, RKT, IE, BSW. Penmillard to Trehill: One on 17th - 24th Apr JCN et al. Polhawn Cove: One on 22nd Apr RSm. St. Just: One on 28th Aug RBe. The county mainland total is now c. 554 since 1932. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 118 232 77 16 7 17 37 25 12 *three undated

EURASIAN WRYNECK - Jynx torquilla (Wryneck) Scarce drift migrant The average number of records in the 1970's was less than five per annum, increasing to almost twelve in the 1980's and to just over fourteen in the 1990's, catching up with and then surpassing Hoopoe. The highest annual total was an estimated sixty-six birds in 2003. This year's total of thirty is the second highest. Adams Hill, St. Buryan: One on 5th Sep JL. Brew, Sennen: One on 26th Apr MWa: One on 3rd Sep MWa. Church Cove: One on 17th Sep MT. Crowdy Res: One on 31st Aug SMC, AMJD, CS. Helston: One on 8th Sep ECJ. Housel Bay: One on 13th Sep MT. Kenidjack: One on 18th - 20th October VRT, BD, AHs.

103 Kynance Farm: One on 19th Sep DE. Land's End: One on 6th - 11th Sep with two on 9th Sep MWa: One on 18th - 19th Sep MWa: One on 16th Oct MWa. Looe: One on 4th Sep MsF. Ludgvan: One on 16th Sep JPo. Nanjizal: One on 10th Sep KAW: One on 19th Nov MWa. Nanquidno: One on 6th Sep JHy. Penzance: One on 4th Sep KAW. Pordenack Point, Land's End: One on 19th Nov MWa. Porthgwarra: Singles on 2nd, 12th, 24th and 26th Sep and 11th Oct CMo, RSm, CS, PStP. Porth Joke: One on 18th Sep SGR. Roskestal: One on 2nd Sep MDW. Soap Cove: One on 18th Sep MT. Trinity Fields, Sennen: One on 25th and 29th Oct MTE and on 6th Nov MWa. Wiggle: One on 5th Sep per IB. The county mainland total is now c. 480 since 1946. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - 4 23 12 1 1 61 285 84 8 -

GREEN WOODPECKER - Picus viridis Breeding resident Reports were received from sixty-four sites, ten less than last year. All reports were of one or two birds apart from the following: Chyuerton: Three on 31st May and five on 14th Sep Rosehill, Penzance: Three on 13th Jun.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos major Breeding resident, with some dispersal Reports were received from ninety-five sites, one less than last year. No more than two birds were reported at any site other than the following: Chyuerton: Four on 26th Apr. Heamoor: Three on 18th Jun. Lanarth: Three on 26th Apr. Porthgwarra: Three on 18th Oct. Smallacombe Plantation: Three on 3rd Jun. Trembath: Five on 4th Jun.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos minor Scarce resident The small number of reports appears to indicate that this species is struggling to cling on as a Cornish resident. However, most sightings have been from areas where there are long strips of deciduous trees, making them difficult to locate other than by call during the early breeding season, and there may be more out there. Breney Common: One on 15th Apr DE. Ponts Mill: One on 15th Apr RL.

104 GREATER SHORT-TOED LARK - Calandrella brachydactyla (Short-toed Lark) Scarce vagrant Trevose Head: One on 11th Oct SMC, LW. The mainland total increases to c. 30 since 1959. Sennen has had six records; Porthgwarra four and Land's End, Treen and Trevose Head have had two. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 3 4 - - 1 8 12 2 -

WOOD LARK - Lullula arborea (Woodlark) Scarce visitor that has bred Breeding was last confirmed in 1983. The national population has been expanding recently and, with birds breeding over the border in Devon, a re-colonisation is not impossible. Certainly, there has been an appreciable increase in the number of records over the last twenty-five years. This year's aggregate of thirty-four monthly records compares with an average of eighty for the previous ten years. However, that average is heavily influenced by the good years of 1994 - 1996. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1972 ------1 - - 1973 - - 2 - - - 1 - - - - - 1974 - - - - 1 ------1975 - - 1 - 1 ------1976 - - - 2 2 1 2 - - 4 8 - 1977 - - - 2 - - 3 - - - 1 - 1978 - - - 3 6 5 - - - 2 - - 1979 - - - 1 5 1 1 - - 10 2 - 1980 1 - - - 1 1 - - - 2 - - 1981 - - - 2 - 2 - - - - 1 - 1982 1 3 - 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 - - 1983 - - 1 6 7 3 2 - - 2 5 - 1984 - 2 - - 3 1 - - - - 1 - 1985 ------5 4 - 1986 - - 4 5 2 - - - - 2 3 - 1987 - - 1 2 2 1 - - - 6 - - 1988 - 3 ------3 4 - 1989 ------3 1 - 1990 - - - 1 1 - - - 1 5 - 3 1991 1 ------10 - - 1992 - 1 ------4 - 22 1993 31 11 2 - - - - - 33 - - 18 1994 76 28 ------13 28 12 1995 1 8 ------7 78 44 1996 37 18 ------1 14 9 126 1997 11 - 4 - - - - - 2 12 32 1 1998 8 ------3 13 7 1999 - 3 ------6 18 20 - 2000 45 2 ------5 3 1 2001 6 ------4 2 2002 - - - - - 1 - - - 25 5 15 2003 11 ------1 . - 14 24 2 2004 - 5 ------8 - 21

105 Crowlas: Five on 12th Feb DSF. Dodman Point: One on 31st Oct DHP. Nanjizal: One on 26th Oct KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 18th Oct RSm, SMC: One on 26th Oct JL: Three on 30th Oct SMC. St. Martin: Nine on 2nd Dec, twenty-one on 14th Dec and sixteen on 29th Dec ARP. Trevose Head: One on 4th Oct SMC.

SKY LARK - Alauda arvensis (Skylark) Breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers fluctuate from year to year, and this year's overall totals are a little above average for recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1,325 576 152 12 34 25 11 5 178 2,333 1,384 623 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End/Sennen 120 ------23 700 150 80 Marazion ------5 35 - - Nanjizal - - - 4 - - - - 4 150 70 - Porthgwarra - 5 ------20 517 40 - St. Levan ------100 300 - Trevose Head 450 350 150 - - - - - 120 260 205 60 Windmill Farm - 5 2 2 _ 5 - 12 7 2 Reports include: Coverack to Beadles Dip: 150 on 26th Oct. Gorran Haven: 280 on 21st Nov. Military Road: 150 on 4th Dec. Penlee Point: 100 on 30th - 31st Oct and 15th Nov. Pentire Point: 220 on 18th Jan. Rame Head: 100 on 30th - 31st Oct and 15th Nov. Wadebridge: 100 on 3rd Dec.

SAND MARTIN - Riparia riparia Passage migrant and breeding summer visitor Although numbers reported this year were appreciably higher than last year, they were about average for recent years. The earliest report since 1932 was on 16th February 2002 at Marazion, and the latest at Penzance on 24th November 1983. This year the earliest was on 16th March at St. Austell Sewage Works, and the latest at Downderry on 9th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 837 7,617 983 256 136 23 120 14 - - Reports include: Launceston Sewage Works: 300 on 28th Apr. Marazion Marsh: 250 on 15th Apr: 300 on 16th Apr: 250 on 18th Apr: 200 on 19th, 20th and 21st Apr. Nanjizal: 200 on 25th Apr. Walmsley Sane: 220 on 16th Apr: 400 on 21st Apr: 250 on 30th Apr.

106 BARN SWALLOW - Hirundo rustica (Swallow) Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Overall numbers were the highest of recent years, a major factor being the large flocks at Marazion and Launceston. The earliest report since 1932 was on 6th February 1989 at Portscatho, and the latest at Par on 30th December 1989, but that excludes an over-wintering bird at Penzance from 6th December 1989 until 14th January 1990 and another bird at Marazion on 14th January 1998 that was also assumed to be over-wintering. Assuming that the birds at Walmsley Sanctuary on 14th January and at Marazion Marsh on 12th Feb - 6th March were over-wintering, the earliest this year was on 17th March at Land's End, and the latest at Long Rock Pool on 9th December. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 4 27 12,072 7,260 154 3,133 13,895 9,450 1,446 39 23 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End/Sennen - - 1 50 300 - - - 350 - - 1 Marazion Marsh - 1 1 750 2,000 1 2,000 12,000 500 5 3 4 Nanjizal - - 3 150 200 26 - - 100 10 1 - Porthgwarra - - - - 26 - 300 210 2,000 4 1 - Trevose Head - - - 267 268 12 250 130 160 70 1 - Walmsley Sane. 1 - - 60 120 30 90 250 150 - - - Reports include: Camel Est: 400 on 8th Sep. Chyuerton: 350 on 14th Sep. Launceston Sewage Works: 5,000 on 28th Apr. Polhawn Cove: 560 on 9th Oct. Rame Head: 500 on 24th Sep. Siblyback Res: 800 on 8th Sep.

RED-RUMPED SWALLOW - Hirundo daurica Vagrant Church Cove, Lizard: One on 8th Feb PJB. Coverack: One on 9th - 13th Feb was the Church Cove bird PJB, BSW. Kennack Sands: The Church Cove bird later in the day on 8th Feb PJB. The mainland total is now c. 35 since 1977. Records are well spread but Marazion Marsh has had six reports, three of them together on 5th - 7th November 1987. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 1 2 7 8 - - - - 10 7 -

HOUSE MARTIN - Delichon urbicum Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Overall numbers were high this year, but a major factor was the large count of birds at Launceston that arrived after the cessation of a period of northerly winds. There was an un-seasonal arrival of birds along the south coast of England in February, most likely from southern Europe where they normally arrive at that time of the year.

107 Historically, the earliest report since 1932 was on 11th February 2001 at Newlyn, and the latest on 27th December 1988 at Crafthole, but there was also an assumed over-wintering bird at Mullion on 17th January 1990. This year the earliest was at Marazion Marsh on 8th February, the earliest ever, and the latest on 21st December at Hayle Estuary.

House Martins (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 36 27 8,871 2,882 282 1,360 1,055 4,458 766 41 2 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End - - - 50 25 20 450 200 250 1 - - Marazion Marsh - 5 4 50 50 5 15 20 800 - - - Nanjizal - - - 30 60 - - 25 - - 35 Pentewan - - - 30 20 20 50 - - 120 - - Porthgwarra - - - - 10 - 90 140 1,000 - - - St. Austell S.W. - - 2 300 350 50 300 - - - - - Trevose Head - - - 16 33 15 60 90 180 - - - Walmsley Sane. - - 1 40 120 30 20 40 150 - - - Reports include: Camel Est: 400 on 8th Sep. Launceston Sewage Works: 7,000 on 28th Apr. Polhawn Cove: 320 on 9th Oct.

RICHARD'S PIPIT - Anthus novaeseelandiae Annual vagrant in small numbers, mainly in autumn There have been reports every year since 1974 with a maximum annual total of thirty-nine in 1994. There are normally large fluctuations in numbers from year to year, but there were eleven records in 2001 - 2003. Brew, Sennen: One on 20th Nov MWa. Dodman Point: One on 29th Nov SMC. Land's End: One on 28th Oct MWa. Nanjizal: One on 1st Nov MTy: One on 26th Nov may have been the Treve Common bird KAW. Porthgwarra: Singles on 12th and 26th Oct SMC. St. Levan: One on 5th Nov SMC, LW. Treve Common: One on 24th - 25th Nov MWa. Trevescan: One on 26th Oct MWa. The county mainland total is now c. 361 since 1961. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 - 2 9 1 - - - 66 201 66 14

108 BLYTH'S PIPIT - Anthus godlewskii Extremely rare vagrant

Land's End/Treve Common: A first cal on 15th Nov - 20th Dec was ringed MTE et al. The mainland total is now 2 since 1990. The first record, also a first cal, was at Skewjack on 22nd October - 1 st November. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1

OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT - Anthus hodgsoni Very rare vagrant Porthgwarra: One on 2nd - 3rd Nov DP et al. The county mainland total is c. 5 since 1991. Previous records were at Sennen on 15th October 1991, Nanjizal on 18th - 19th October 1993, a second bird at St Levan on 18th - 19th October 1993, and at St Just on 12th - 14th November 2000. All the birds were within an area less than three miles wide. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3 2

TREE PIPIT - Anthus trivialis Passage migrant in small numbers, and breeds in small numbers in east Cornwall Overall numbers were about average for recent years. The earliest report since 1935 was on 19th March 1999 at Tregoss Moor, and the latest at Loe Pool on 1st November 1996. This year the earliest was on 11th April at Land's End, and the latest at Land's End on 30th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 14 31 23 2 17 88 4 Reports include: Brickmoor: Six on 2nd May. Chyuerton: Twelve on 14th Sep. Great Grogley Downs: Six on 29th May. Land's End: Five on 1st Sep: Ten on 5th Sep. Nanjizal: Eight on 1st Sep: Twelve on 5th Sep. Smallacombe Plantation: Six on 3rd Jun. Tregoss Moor: Six on 20th Jun.

MEADOW PIPIT - Anthus pratensis Breeding summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor The number of birds passing through in autumn is always significantly higher than in spring, and this year was no exception. Numbers fluctuate from year to year, and this year's figures were in line with recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 178 298 487 111 24 44 4 10 1,952 4,985 646 619

109 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End - 60 80 30 - - - - 700 600 200 - Marazion Marsh 10 4 ------15 30 20 6 Nanjizal 30 30 - 6 - - - 10 30 - 40 15 Porthgwarra 5 - 2 ------125 16 100 Trevose Head 45 32 65 35 - - - 90 no 40 130 Reports include: Davidstow Airfield: 200 on 10th Sep. Higher Tregiffian: 200 on 11th Oct. Polgigga: 200 on 8th Oct. Rame Head: 250 on 7th Oct.

RED-THROATED PIPIT - Anthus cervinus Very rare vagrant Porthgwarra: An adult on 31st Aug GGi. The mainland total is now c. 15 since 1983. Previous reports were at Skewjack in 1983, Porthgwarra in 1985, Reskajeage in 1986, Marazion Marsh in 1990, Treen in 1990, Sennen in 1994, in 1994, Nanquidno in 1995, Porthgwarra in 1996, Nanjizal in 1998, The Lizard in 1998, Davidstow Airfield in 1999, Nanjizal in 2001 and Lizard Point in 2003. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 2 - - 1 1 10 - -

ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus Breeding resident with some dispersal and scarce migrant. Rarely seen inland. Reports include: Gannel Est: Twenty-seven on 16th Dec. Hannafore: Forty on 5th Jan. Marazion Beach: Twenty-five on 28th Feb. ***** Birds showing characteristics of the form known as Scandinavian Rock Pipit A. p. littoralis, probably quite a regular visitor to the Cornish coastline, were noted as follows: Gwithian Towans: Two on 12th Mar KAW. Hannafore: Six trapped on 5th Jan KAW. Land's End: One on 5th Mar MWa. Torpoint: Singles on 9th and 21st Oct per CRe. The county mainland total is now c. 38 since 1969. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 8 5 15 4 - - - - - 2 3 1

WATER PIPIT - Anthus spinoletta Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Monthly totals for the past twenty-five years show an increasing trend in the number of reports of this species through to the late 1990's, but then declining numbers to 2002. However, the situation was turned on its head in 2003 when the county had its best autumn on record and many of the birds stayed over into this year.

110 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1968 - 1 1 ------1 - 1969 - 1 1 ------1 1 1 1970 2 - 3 ------2 3 1971 1 1 - 3 - - - - - 1 5 7 1972 4 2 4 13 - - - - - 2 4 1973 - - 4 9 - - - - - 1 1 1974 - 1 - 2 - - - - - 1 1 - 1975 2 3 5 2 - - - - - 3 2 1976 2 1 5 1 - - - - - 1 1 1 1977 2 1 2 1 - - - - - 1 3 - 1978 2 1 3 5 - - - - - 3 2 1979 - 2 2 2 - - - - - 6 2 1980 2 4 3 2 - - - - - 1 1 3 1981 2 1 ------1 1 1 1982 3 - 1 1 ------5 3 1983 3 4 ------2 2 1 1984 - 3 3 2 ------6 2 1985 4 1 - 1 - - - - - 2 9 9 1986 8 6 6 1 ------2 1987 6 5 6 7 ------3 2 1988 4 5 7 1 - - - - - 1 2 3 1989 8 7 - 2 ------3 3 1990 5 1 16 5 - - - - - 6 8 8 1991 9 6 3 ------2 1 1992 4 2 4 6 - - - - - 1 - 2 1993 4 1 7 3 - - - - - 3 13 4 1994 17 9 3 ------2 7 8 1995 - 1 - 4 - - - - - 4 8 8 1996 12 3 5 - 2 - - - - 3 5 4 1997 13 12 9 4 ------2 3 1998 6 9 2 ------5 4 1999 10 6 3 ------1 4 4 2000 6 8 6 ------5 5 2001 7 4 1 ------4 2 2002 1 1 1 ------3 2 2003 3 3 2 1 - - - - - 5 18 30 2004 18 24 33 4 5 - - - - 2 12 6 Brew, Sennen: One on 24th Jan MWa. Gwithian Towans: Two on 27th Jan MWa, KAW: One on 19th Dec DSF. Harlyn Bay: Two on 24th Feb, six on 4th Mar, singles on 13th and 17th Mar, two on 24th Mar, one on 27th Mar, Two on lst Apr and three on 12th Apr SMC. Hayle Est: Singles on 2nd Jan DSF, 27th Feb DSF and 6th Mar SMC: Two on 21st Dec LPW. Creek: One on 15th Mar SMC. Maer Lake: One on 21st Nov SMC. Marazion Marsh: Last year's two birds to lst Mar and one to 31st Mar DSF et al: One 2nd - 13th Nov but two on 4th Nov DSF et al. Mawgan Porth: One on 12th Mar and two on 10th Dec SMC. Nanjizal: Last year's birds to 24th Mar with maximums of six in Jan and fourteen in Feb and Mar KAW: One on 6th, two on 14th, one on 18th, six on 22nd and one on 29th Nov KAW. Par Beach: One on 2nd, two on 3rd and four on 5th May RL. Poldhu Cove: One on 2nd and 24th Jan and 21st Feb SFE. Porthallow: One on lst Jan and 21st Feb SFE. Porthgwarra: Three on 21 st Mar MDW.

Ill Ryan's Field, Hayle: One on 7th Nov SGR. Siblyback Res: Last year's bird to 15th Jan JCN, SMC. Sladesbridge: One on 23rd Mar SMC. St. Levan: One on 31st Oct MDW. Stithians Res: One on 9th and 18th Jan SMC. Trevorian Pool: One on 26th Nov MWa. Walmsley Sane: Up to three of last year's birds intermittently to 3rd Apr SMC. Windmill Farm: One intermittently 13th Feb - 7th May ARP: One intermittently 30th Oct - 6th Dec ARP.

YELLOW WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava Passage migrant that bred almost annually from 1956 to 1965 but not since The spring passage was again small and, although reasonable numbers passed through in autumn, overall numbers were below average. Historically, the earliest report since 1935 was on 13th March 1993 at Towednack, and the latest at Loe Pool on 18th December 1975. This year the earliest was on 12th April at Brew and the latest at Nanjizal on 26th October. Grey-headed Wagtail (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 12 12 1 3 29 188 2 - - Reports include: Camel Est: One on 8th Sep. Chapel Point: Three on 9th Sep. Church Cove: One on 27th Sep. Coverack: One on 19th Sep. Crowdy Res: One on 31st Aug - 1st Sep. Cury: One on 23rd Aug. Davidstow Airfield: Singles on 28th Aug and 7th Sep: Two on 10th Sep. Downderry: Five on 1st and 3rd Sep: Four on 5th Sep: Two on 9th Sep. Gorran Haven: Two on 8th Sep. Kenidjack: One on 21st Sep. Land's End/Brew/Sennen: Singles on 12th and 25th April: Two on 26th Apr: Singles on 6th, 7th, 25th and 30th May: One on 7th Jun: One on 23rd Aug: Two on 25th Aug: Singles on 26th, 27th and 28th Aug: Six on 31st Aug: Thirteen on 1st Sep: Ten on 2nd Sep: Nine on 3rd Sep: Two's on 4th, 5th and 16th Sep: Six on 7th Sep: Two on 13th and 15th Sep: One on 21st Sep: One on 20th Oct. Little Kelynack: Twenty on 3rd Sep. Lizard Point: One on 10th May. Marazion Beach: One on 15th Sep. Marazion Marsh: Singles on 29th and 30th Apr, 1st and 4th - 5th May. Nanjizal: Singles on 16th Apr, 5th Jul and 25th Aug: Five on 28th Aug: Two on 31 st Aug: Seven on 1st and 4th Sep: Five on 5th Sep: Singles on 9th and 24th Sep and 26th Oct. Nanquidno: Five on 3rd Sep: Eight on 9th Sep. Par Beach: Singles on 2nd and 4th May. Three on 5th May: One on 2nd Sep. Porthgwarra: Three on 28th Aug: Nine on 4th Sep and two on 12th Sep. Porth Joke: One on 25th Apr.

112 Predannack: Two on 20th Jul, one on 27th Aug and one on 2nd Sep. Rame Head: One on 17th Apr and thirteen on 1st Sep. Siblyback Res: Two on 4th Sep and six on 5th - 8th Sep. Trevorian: One on 31st Aug: Three on 9th Sep and forty on 11th Sep. Trevose Head: Two on 22nd Apr. Singles on 2nd May, 31st Aug, 1st, 5th and 9th Sep. Walmsley Sane: Singles on 21st Apr and 9th Sep. Windmill Farm: One on 2nd Sep.

Individuals of the race M. f. flava, known as Blue-headed Wagtail, were noted as follows: Nanjizal: An adult male on 30th Apr KAW: a male on 2nd - 4th Sep MDW. Nanquidno: One on 9th Sep MTE. The mainland total is now c. 213 since 1936. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 3 56 84 13 6 9 41 1 - - An individual of the race M. f. thunbergi, known as Grey-headed Wagtail, was noted as follows: Nanjizal: A first cal male ringed on 8th Sep KAW. The mainland total is now c. 10 since 1975. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 6 1 2 An individual of the race M. f. beema, known as Sykes Wagtail, was noted as follows: Nanjizal: A first cal male ringed on 9th Sep KAW. The mainland total is now c. 3 since 1982. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1

CITRINE WAGTAIL - Motacilla citreola Rare vagrant. Marazion Marsh: A first cal on 31st Aug - 16th Sep DSF et al. Nanjizal: A first cal on 22nd - 24th Aug KAW. Windmill Farm: One on 16th May ARP. The mainland total is now c. 14 since 1982. Apart from one at Maer Lake in 1997, all the records have been located in the west of the county. Marazion has now had four records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 4 5

GREY WAGTAIL - Motacilla cinerea Breeding resident with some dispersal, and winter visitor Present on suitable sites throughout the county, but there are normally only small numbers at any one site and the species is probably under-recorded as a result. Numbers reported were the lowest since 2000 and significantly lower than during the mid 1990's.

113 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 14 39 34 6 17 3 12 12 44 77 18 17 Reports include. Brew, Sennen: Eight on 2nd Sep: Six on 26th Oct. Gannel Est: Five on 12th Sep. Goonhilly downs: Seven on 14th Aug. Nanjizal: Seven on 12th Oct. Porth Joke: Seven on 10th Oct. Sladesbridge: Twelve on 23rd Mar. St. Austell Sewage Works: Ten on 23rd Feb.

PIED WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba Common breeding resident and passage migrant that forms roosts in autumn and winter Reported numbers vary according to the size of the winter roosts. Roosts were appreciably smaller this year and, hence, so were overall numbers. Approximate monthly totals (M. a. yarrellii): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 203 359 116 16 11 2 72 88 211 293 225 382 Other reports include: Chiverton Cross: 110 on 16th Feb. Land's End: Thirty on 26th Oct. Polhawn Cove: Fifty-four on 3rd Oct. Porthpean: Fifty on 22nd Sep. Siblyback Res: Sixty on 5th Sep. St. Austell Sewage Works: 100 on 3rd Jan, 1st Feb and 27th Dec. Trevorian: Eighty on 26th Nov and 4th Dec.

Birds of the nominate continental race Af. a. alba, known as White Wagtail, that occur as a regular passage migrant in the county, were noted as follows: Land's End: Forty on 7th Sep: 140 on 1st Sep. Marazion Beach: Fifty on 16th Sep. Nanjizal: Fifty on 1st Sep Separating alba and yarrellii in early autumn flocks can be difficult, with many flocks likely to contain some first calendar yarrellii birds. Numbers vary from year to year with no apparent trend, and this year's numbers were at the high side of expectations. The earliest report since 1935 was on 3rd February 1998 at Par Beach, and the latest also at Par on 12th November 2000. The first report this year was at Hayle Estuary on 22nd January and the last on 4th December at Marazion Marsh, the earliest and the latest ever. Approximate monthly totals (M. a. alba): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 1 25 44 7 1 - 53 711 67 7 3

BOHEMIAN WAXWING - Bombycilla garrulus (Waxwing) Rare winter visitor Kenidjack: Two on 30th Oct AMJD, DSF, JL, DP et al.

114 Land's End: Two on 29th Oct TD, SM and one on 31st Oct MWa. Nanjizal: Singles on 25th Oct and 26th Nov KAW. Nanquidno: Two on 30th Oct were the Kenidjack birds JHy. Porthgwarra: Two on 29th Oct and one on 30th Oct JDB, SMC, MKW. Good numbers arrived in the west of Britain. Strong northeast winds from Scandinavia brought birds through Shetland and Ireland, with a few stragglers even reaching Spain. It is thought that two birds were responsible for the October records, flying up and down the coast in the far west. The mainland total is now c. 83 since 1951. This species is an infrequent visitor. The total includes two years when there were small influxes - twenty were in 1965 and twenty-seven in 1996. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 8 26 9 - 1 - - - - 4 28 7

WHITE-THROATED DIPPER - Cinclus cinclus (Dipper) Scarce breeding resident Pairs are present on most suitable stretches of the Rivers Camel and Fowey, with the majority of breeding pairs centred on the extremities of Bodmin Moor and with small populations in the middle and west of the county.

There were no reports of more than two birds.

WINTER WREN - Troglodytes troglodytes (Wren) Breeding resident with a population that may be severely reduced by prolonged cold winters Reports include: Chyuerton: Twenty-nine on 16th Dec.

HEDGE ACCENTOR - Prunella modularis (Dunnock) Breeding resident and rare passage migrant Reports include: Trevose Head: Twenty-five on 8th Oct.

EUROPEAN ROBIN - Erithacus rubecula (Robin) Breeding resident and irregular passage migrant in the southwest Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Seventy on 30th Oct. Land's End: Forty on 28th Oct. Nanjizal: Seventy on 30th Oct. Nanquidno: Sixty-three on 7th Oct: Fifty-four on 12th Oct. Polhawn Cove: Fifty on 31st Oct. Porthgwarra: Fifty-five on 11th Oct

COMMON NIGHTINGALE - Luscinia megarhynchos (Nightingale) Rare passage migrant that bred in 1940 and summered in 1978 and 1989 Lamorna Valley: A male on 6th - 7th Jun CMo et al. Nanjizal: A male on 21st Apr KAW. The mainland total is now c. 52 since 1945. Porthgwarra has most records with nine and there have been three at Kenidjack.

115 Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 7 18 4 - 8 12 3 - -

BLUETHROAT - Luscinia svecica Decreasing drift migrant. Cam Brea, St Just: A red-spotted bird on 18th May per BSW. Land's End: A red-spotted bird was ringed on 23rd May MWa. The mainland total is now c. 23 since 1961. There have been three records at Kynance and Porthgwarra, and four at Marazion Marsh/Long Rock Pool. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - 3 - - 2 12 5 - - * One undated

BLACK REDSTART - Phoenicurus ochruros Passage migrant and winter visitor that bred sporadically in the Perranporth area in the 1940's and 1950's Overall numbers vary from year to year with no particular trend. This year's numbers were approximately thirteen per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 16 11 8 5 1 - 1 - - 132 89 9 Reports include: Church Cove: Four on 29th Oct. Land's End: Eight on 28th Oct and seven on 4th Nov. Nanjizal: Five on 28th - 30th Oct: Sixteen on 5th Nov. Porthgwarra: Six on 31st Oct. Sancreed: Six on 30th Oct. Sennen Cove: Twenty on 27th Oct.

COMMON REDSTART - Phoenicurus phoenicurus (Redstart) A summer visitor that breeds almost exclusively in the Bodmin Moor area and a scarce passage migrant Found during the breeding season in many wooded valleys and farmsteads on Bodmin Moor, this species is thinly spread with most sightings of single birds. Overall numbers this year were around the average of the previous four years. The earliest report since 1935 was on 6th March 1984 at Truro, and the latest at Culdrose Airfield on 21st December 2002. The earliest this year was on 3rd April at Sharp Tor, and the latest at Rame Head on 1 st November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec _ - - 14 13 20 - 1 4 20 5 - Reports include: Bearah Tor: Two on 8th Jun. Deweymeades: Two on 17th Jun. Halvana Plantation: Two on 30th May Lizard Point: Seven on 11th - 12th Apr. Rame Head: Three on 1st May.

116 Sennen Cove: Two on 27th Oct. Sharp Tor: Two on 3rd Apr. Smallacombe Plantation: Four on 3rd Jun. Treswollack: Two on 2nd Jun. Trevose Head: Two on 2nd May. Whiteheads: Two on 2nd Jun.

WHINCHAT - Saxicola rubetra Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Numbers this year were appreciably less than last year and below the average of recent years. The earliest report since 1936 was on 29th March 1984 at Lelant, and the latest at Copperhouse on 11th December 1984. The earliest this year was on lst May on Goonhilly Downs, and the latest at Caerthillian Cove on 6th November.

Whinchats (Martin Elliot) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - 29 12 12 11 86 27 2 - Reports include: Garrow Tor: Six on 17th Jun. Land's End: Ten on 9th - 10th Sep, 1 on 23rd Nov. Walmsley Sane: Six on 9th Sep. Windmill Farm: Seven on 6th Sep.

STONECHAT - Saxicola torquatus Breeding resident with some dispersal that suffers heavy mortality in prolonged cold weather Reports include: Land's End: Twenty on 26th Mar: Twenty-five on 18th Sep. Lizard Point: Fifteen on 26th Mar: Ten on 23rd Aug. Porthgwarra: Ten on 6th Sep, twenty on 24th Sep, twenty-one on 4th Oct and twelve on 3rd Nov. Porth Joke: Ten on 19th Sep. Predannack Downs: Eighteen on 31st Oct. Trevose Head: Fourteen on 1st - 30th Apr.

117 NORTHERN WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe (Wheatear) Summer visitor that breeds primarily on Bodmin Moor and along the coastline, and passage migrant Numbers were very similar to last year, and within the range of recent years. The earliest report since 1932 was on 22nd February 1993 on The Lizard, and the latest at Poldhu Cove on 1st December, but there was also an apparent over-wintering bird at on 23rd November 1988 through to 1st January 1989. The earliest this year was on 11th March at St. Agnes Head, and the latest at Cam Gloose on 30th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 110 317 332 39 32 181 662 167 - - Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Davidstow Airfield - - 15 3 1 5 12 10 - - - Land's End/Sennen - 21 25 75 1 - 16 105 15 - - Porthgwarra - 20 7 - - - 12 40 7 - - Trevose Head - 14 26 50 - 3 12 17 - - - Windmill Farm - - 3 2 - - 1 1 1 - - Breeding was reported at Colliford Reservoir, Dozmary Pool, Kit Hill, Kynance Cliffs, Pendeen, Porthgwarra and St. Agnes Head Other reports include: Lizard Point: Fifty on 11th Apr. Penlee Point: Thirteen on 12th Apr. Polhawn Cove: Ten on 8th Sep. Rame Head: Ten on 8th Sep. St. Agnes Head: Eighteen on 4th Sep.

RING OUZEL - Turdus torquatus Scarce passage migrant and rare winter visitor that bred in 1970 and 1996 Numbers this year were approximately thirty-five per cent below the average of the previous ten years, but that average does include the exceptional year of 1997 when two hundred and three birds were reported. The earliest report since 1931 was on 6th March 1977 at Pendeen, and the latest at St Austell on 9th December. However, a wintering bird was seen at both Kingsand on 15th January and Widegates on 22nd January 1987, another was at Mullion on 9th December 1991 until 5th April 1992, and what were considered to be five over-wintering birds were at Blackpool Clay Pit on 11th February 1996. This year the first bird was seen on 12th April at Cudden Point, and the last at Dodman Point on 7th November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Brew, Sennen: Two on 11th Oct. Caerthillian Cove: Singles on 10th, 17th, 29th and 30th Oct. Chapel Point: Two on 6th Nov. Cot Valley: Two on 12th Oct. Cudden Point: One on 12th Apr. Dodman Point: Singles on 31st Oct and 5th Nov: Two on 7th Nov. Helman Tor: One on 15th Apr.

118 Kenidjack: Two on 19th - 20th Oct: One on 30th - 31st Oct. Land's End: Singles on 20th and 25th Apr and 10th and 12th Oct. Nanjizal: Two on 12th Oct: One on 5th - 6th Nov. Nanquidno: One on 10th Oct. Penlee Battery: One on 5th - 6th Nov. Penlee Point: One on 30th Oct. Penmillard: One on 3rd Nov. Polhawn Cove: One on 31st Oct. Porthgwarra: One on 25th Apr. Porth Joke: One on 2nd May. Porth Mear: One on 3rd Nov. Rame Head: One on 24th Apr. Sancreed: One on 30th Oct. Treganhawke: One on 30th Oct. Trevose Head: One on 23rd Apr. Zennor: Three on 17th Oct.

COMMON BLACKBIRD - Turdus merula (Blackbird) Common breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Although this species does not flock to the extent of some other thrushes, small numbers sometimes gather together during the winter months but usually disperse by the end of February. Numbers passing vary from year to year with no particular trend. Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Thirty on 31st Oct and twenty-five on 6th Nov. Kenidjack: Twenty-five on 18th Oct. Nanjizal: Twenty-five on 20th and 22nd Nov. Nanquidno: Thirty on 7th Oct and twenty-six on 15th Oct. Polhawn Fort: Sixty on 31st Oct. Porthgwarra: Thirty-one on 31 st Oct. Predannack downs: Twenty-eight on 31st Oct. Rame, Rame Head: Thirty on 30th Oct. Trembath: Thirty-one on 10th Feb.

Trevose Head: Twenty-six on 29th Sep and twenty-seven on 8th Oct.

FIELDFARE - Turdus pilaris Passage migrant and winter visitor that summered in the Upper Fowey Valley in 1987 Overall numbers were a little below the average of the last few years. ApproximatJan Feb e monthlMar y totalsApr : May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 652 242 133 2 - - - - - 2,952 442 704 Reports include: Colliford Res: 170 on 1st Jan and 232 on 18th Jan. Goss Moor: 110 on 6th Jan. Holmbush: 300 on 10th Oct, 2,000 on 11th Oct and 100 on 30th Dec. Tregonetha Downs: 110 on 15th Feb. Walmsley Sane: 120 on 12th Dec. and 150 on 23rd Dec.

119 SONG THRUSH - Turdus philomelos Breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers reported vary from year to year. Hard winters appear to be a factor as we have recently had mild winters and no flocks above one hundred have been seen since 1997 whereas, in January 1982, "arctic conditions" produced a flock of five thousand at Bude. Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Twenty on 20th Oct and 23rd Nov. Land's End: Eighty on 23rd Feb: Thirty on 9th Oct: Fifty on 27th Oct: Forty on 29th Oct. Nanjizal: Twenty-five on 29th Feb and twenty on 7th Mar. Nanquidno: Twenty-two on 10th Oct. Sennen: 250 on 26th Oct. Trevose Head: Twenty on 1st Nov.

REDWING - Turdus iliacus Passage migrant and winter visitor The "arctic conditions" of January 1982 produced fifteen thousand birds at Bude, and a flock of thirty thousand was reported at Truro in October 1983. Numbers this year were lower than last year, better than the previous four years, but well below the levels seen in the mid-1990's. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 698 1,363 964 4 1 - - . - 1 4,315 1,359 1,598 Reports include: Antony Estate: 125 on 28th Feb. Brew, Sennen: 150 on 9th Feb and 1st Mar: 100 on 3rd Mar: 200 on 31st Oct and 6th Nov. Dozmary Pool: 100 on 4th Dec. Heamoor: 300 on 24th Feb. Holmbush: 200 on 10th Oct: 3,000 on 11th Oct: 200 on 19th Dec: 250 on 30th Dec. Land's End: 100 on 17th Jan: 120 on 15th Feb: 250 on 1st Mar: 300 on 8th Mar. Loe Pool: 150 on 13th Dec. Nanjizal: 100 on 6th Nov: 600 on 22nd Nov. Padstow: 100 on 24th Dec. Pencalenick: 150 on 19th Jan. St. Columb Major: 120 on 25th Jan. Treriefe: 250 on 27th Feb

MISTLE THRUSH - Turdus viscivorus Breeding resident, scarce migrant and winter visitor Numbers were higher than the previous four years. Reports include: Crowdy Res: Seven on 4th Sep. Walmsley Sane: Eight on 8th Nov.

AMERICAN ROBIN - Turdus migratorius Very rare vagrant Godrevy Point: Last year's adult female remained until 2nd Feb HK et al. Last year's female, the first record for the county mainland, spent a further five weeks in the same area despite some previous close encounters with a Sparrowhawk that left it with some missing tail and left wing feathers.

120 CETTI'S WARBLER - Cettia cetti Scarce breeding resident, with some dispersal in autumn This species was first noted in the UK in 1961 and reached Cornwall in 1973. The population has fluctuated since then because the species is prone to losses during severe winters. Ringing at Nanjizal appears to indicate that birds disperse in late October and November, particularly females. There were reports from fifteen sites, five more than last year, but overall numbers were near the recent average. The following table shows numbers of singing males at regular sites: 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 Marazion Marsh 6 6 12 6 10 7 4 Par Beach Pool 1 2 4 4 2 3 2 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3 3 7 4 9 3 - 1 3 7 7 12 Bude Marshes: One on 2nd Jan and two on 29th Dec. Harlyn Bay: Singles on 24th Feb - 3rd Apr and 6th Oct: Two on 2nd Nov: Three on 7th Dec Land's End: One 16th - 17th Oct. Loe Pool: Singles on 11th Apr and 1st and 28th Dec. Mawgan Porth: One on 6th Jun. Menadue Marsh: One on 27th May. Nanjizal: One on 11th Nov and two on 20th Nov. Pendower: One on 3rd Dec. Polhawn Cove: Singles on 29th Mar and 18th - 22nd Apr: Two on 24th Apr. Porth Res: Singles on 14th Nov and 7th Dec. Salter Mill: One on 2nd - 11th May. Windmill Farm: One on 12th - 19th Oct.

COMMON GRASSHOPPER WARBLER - Locustella naevia (Grasshopper Warbler) Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant that is rarely reported in autumn Numbers this year were higher than seen during the previous four years. The earliest report since 1931 was on 3rd April 1998 at Porth Joke, and the latest at Duckpool on 27th October 1988. This year the earliest was on 8th April at Nanjizal, and the latest at Land's End on 26th September. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 72 53 22 21 4 2 - - Reports include: Bosigran: Four on 18th Jun. Goonhilly Downs: Eight on 23rd Jul. Nanjizal: Eight on 20th Apr and five on 22nd Apr. Windmill Farm: Five on 1st May.

SEDGE WARBLER - Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Overall numbers reported were well above the average of the previous four years. The earliest report since 1932 was on 14th February 1998 at Bude Marshes, and the latest at Coverack on 22nd November 1996. This year the earliest was on 8th February at Par Beach Pool, the earliest ever, and the latest at Land's End on 10th Sep.

121 Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 1 - 113 475 41 167 173 36 - - - Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Fifteen on 1st May: Ten on 5th and 6th May. Chynhalls Cliffs to Beagle Point: Sixteen on 17th May. Drift Res: Ten on 4th Aug. Land's End: Thirty on 1st May and ten on 2nd May: Ten on 5th Aug. Marazion Marsh: Twelve on 16th Apr, fifteen on 29th Jul and nineteen on 21st Aug. Nanjizal: Ten on 26th Apr, eighty on 1st May, twenty-five on 2nd May, forty-five on 6th May, fifteen on 9th May, fifty on 18th Jul, thirty on 31st Jul and fourteen on 12th Aug. Nansmellyn Marsh: Sixteen on 9th May. Par Beach: Ten on 22nd May. Porth Joke: Fifteen on 1st May. Porthgwarra: Fifty on 1st May. Trevorian: Ten on 7th May. Trevose Head: Eleven on 1st May. Windmill Farm: Fifteen on 1st May: Ten on 15th Aug.

PADDYFIELD WARBLER - Acrocephalus agricola Very rare vagrant

Brew, Sennen: One on 14th Oct MWa et al. The county mainland total is now 3 since 1996. The first record was of a bird at Long Rock Pool on 16th November - 27th December 1996. The second, like this year's record, stayed only for one day on 15th November 2001 in Cot Valley. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May J un Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2

MARSH WARBLER - Acrocephalus palustris Rare drift migrant/vagrant Nanjizal: A singing male on 9th Jun KAW et al. The county mainland total is now c. 10 since 1968. Previous records were at Porthgwarra in 1968, Kynance in 1970, Long Rock Pool in 1988, Cot Valley in 1989, Polgigga in 1991, Gwithian in 1992, Nanjizal in 1997, Porth Joke in 1998, and Nanjizal in 1998.

Marsh Warbler (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1 2 2 3

EURASIAN REED WARBLER - Acrocephalus scirpaceus (Reed Warbler) Breeding passage migrant and summer visitor Forty years ago this species was such a rare visitor to Cornwall that the presence of one on the Camel Estuary on 1st September 1951 warranted a special mention in the introduction to that year's bird

122 report; the only previous mention was in the 1931 report. At that time the species was seen only sporadically, but it has since become a regular breeder in the county's reed-beds. Overall numbers reported were the highest of the last four years. The earliest report since 1959 was on 8th March 1998 at Marazion, and the latest at Porthcurno on 3rd December 1998. This year the earliest report was on 10th April at Nanquidno, and the latest at Land's End on 5th November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 11 80 36 25 24 31 10 3 - Reports include: Calstock: Five on 12th Jun. Harlyn Bay: Four on 5th Jun. Marazion Marsh: Thirteen on 21st Aug. Mawgan Porth: Six on 6th Jun. Nanjizal: Five on 10th Sep. Nansmellyn Marsh: Eight on 9th May. Par Beach: Ten on 9th and five on 22nd May. Walmsley Sane: Four on 28th Jul.

MELODIOUS WARBLER - Hippolais polyglotta Scarce drift migrant, mainly in autumn Land's End: A first cal ringed on 12th - 17th Aug MWa. Nanjizal: A first cal ringed on 21st Aug KAW. Nanquidno: A first cal on 18th Sep SGR: One on 29th - 30th Sep CS, CMo. Porthgwarra: One on 22nd May SMC: One on 4th - 7th Sep PStP. The county mainland total is now c. 131 since 1931. Most records have been at Porthgwarra where fifty-one have been located, and there have also been thirteen at Nanquidno. There have been eight at Land's End, and eight at Nanjizal. Approximate monthly breakdown (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - 3 - 1 37 70 19 1 -

DARTFORD WARBLER - Sylvia undata Rare breeding resident with some dispersal There were thirteen reports of this species prior to 1980, including one of confirmed breeding in 1943. Breeding was again proven on the southeast coast of the county in 1980 through to 1985, but there was a subsequent decline in the area with only sporadic sightings outside the breeding season. Breeding was confirmed on the Lizard in the early 1980's but that population also disappeared. In the early 1990's a small but viable population became established in the area and in 1996 birds were again discovered on the Lizard. Reports from the main breeding area indicate a good increase in numbers, and this is doubtless the reason for the increase in the number of reports away from breeding sites. Reports away from breeding sites were: Brew, Sennen: One on 11th Oct MWa. Cam Gloose, St. Just: One on 30th Oct DSF. Goss Moor: One on 28th Nov SMC, LW. Land's End: One on 22nd Mar - 7th Apr MWA: One on 9th Aug MWa: One on 10th Oct - 31st Dec MWa.

123 Nare Head: Two on 3rd Dec SMC, LW. Par Beach: One on 9th Nov SMC. Porthgwarra: Three on 31 st Oct and 4th and 5th Nov SMC, LW: One on 15th Nov SMC: One on 30th Nov DSF. Reskajeage Downs: One on 10th Dec IE. Wheal Kitty: One on 6th Dec DJC. The county total of birds away from possible breeding sites is now c. 119 since 1931. Approximate monthly totals away from breeding sites (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 12 6 14 10 6 1 - 6 5 31 20 8

SUBALPINE WARBLER - Sylvia cantillans Vagrant, mainly spring overshoots Land's End/Treve Common: A second cal male on 16th Apr was joined by a second bird on 17th - 18th April, with one remaining to 24th Apr MWa et al. Trevilley, Land's End: A second cal male on 17th - 20th Apr was different from the Land's End birds DSF, PStP. The county mainland total has now increased to c. 32 since 1975. Nanjizal has had five records, but Land's End now has six following these three records. Three birds in such a small area are exceptional. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 3 11 16 - - - 1 1 - -

BARRED WARBLER - Sylvia nisoria Rare drift migrant in autumn Kenidjack: First cal on 13th - 17th Oct ICHK, DBu, HK. Land's End: First cal on 11th Oct MWa. Porthgwarra: First cal on 25th - 26th Oct MDW. The county mainland total is now c. 59 since 1963. Land's End has now had four records but Porthgwarra has had twenty-two records, nineteen of which were in and before 1988. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------2 26 26 5 -

LESSER WHITETHROAT - Sylvia curruca Scarce breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Numbers were a little below the average of the previous ten years. The earliest report since 1942 was on 5th April 1995 at Par, and the latest at Hayle on 19th December 1999. However, there was also an over-wintering bird at Torpoint between 5th December 1985 and 26th April 1986. The earliest report this year was on 23rd April at Carnon Bridge, and the latest at Penlee Point, Rame on 26th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1974 - - 1 1 3 ------1975 - - 1 1 2 ------1976 - - - - 2 - - 3 - - - - 1977 - - - - 6 1 ------

124 1978 - - - - 7 2 1 1 2 - - - 1979 - - - 1 4 3 - - 1 - - - 1980 - - - - 12 2 - - 1 1 - - 1981 - - - 7 10 7 2 1 1 - 1 - 1982 - - - 1 5 1 6 7 1 1 - - 1983 - - - - 12 2 - 2 - - - - 1984 - - - 6 16 5 5 1 - 2 - - 1985 - - - 6 12 3 - 5 - 2 - 1 1986 - - - 6 14 - - 7 10 - - - 1987 - - - 1 11 5 2 1 2 3 - - 1990 - - - 4 18 - - 3 2 6 - - 1991 - - - - 13 6 2 3 7 1 - - 1992 - - - 1 18 4 1 - 2 4 1 - 1993 - - - 2 14 3 2 1 2 5 - - 1994 - - - 4 19 11 4 1 1 5 - - 1997 - - - 1 10 6 1 2 2 - - - 1998 - - - 4 17 5 - 3 3 2 5 - 1999 - - - 2 15 12 4 1 - 4 1 1 2000 - - - 3 12 2 2 3 1 5 - - 2001 - - - 4 21 5 2 5 1 1 1 - 2002 1 - - 3 12 7 6 1 2 4 - - 2003 - - - 3 6 10 9 8 1 - - - 2004 - - - 1 12 2 6 3 3 5 - - Brew, Sennen: One on 24th Sep. Carnon Bridge: One on 23rd Apr. Chynhalls Cliffs: Singles on 7th Jun and 4th Oct. Coverack: One on 2nd May. Dennis Cove: One on 16th and 24th Jul. Duckpool: One on 19th May. Gorran Haven: One on 15th Aug. Helman Tor: One on 15th May. Kenidjack: One on 13th Oct. Kynance Cove: One on 1st May. Land's End: One on 1st May: One on 18th May. Nanjizal: Singles on 2nd May, 5th Sep and 20th - 30th Oct. Nanquidno: One on 15th - 24th Oct. Old Town Cove: One on 6th May. Padstow: One on 10th Jul: A pair on 15th Jul - 19th Aug. Penlee Point: One on 1st - 14th May: One on 26th Oct. Perlees Farm: One on 30th Jul. Pinkson Creek: One on 6th Jul. Stithians Res: One on 14th Aug. Tregoss: One on 8th Jun. Tregoss Pool, Goss Moor: One on 23rd Jul. Trevose Head: One on 29th Sep. Wheal Kitty: One on 15th May. Windmill Farm: Two on 2nd May: One on 9th and 12th Aug.

COMMON WHITETHROAT - Sylvia communis (Whitethroat) Common breeding summer visitor and passage migrant that over-wintered in 1952/53 Overall numbers reported appear to indicate a steady increase over the last five years. The earliest report since 1932 was on 31st March 1980 at Epphaven and the latest at Church Cove,

125 The Lizard on 9th November 1996. The earliest this year was on 7th April at Land's End and the latest at Gwennap Sewage Works on 12th November, the latest ever recorded. Reports include: Chynhalls Cliff to Beagles Dip: Twenty-six on 17th May. Land's End: Twenty on 26th Apr, sixty on 1 st May and thirty on 2nd May and 19th Jul: Thirty on 24th Jul and twenty on 31 st Jul. Nanjizal: Forty-five on 1st May and thirty-five on 4th Sep. Penlee Battery: Forty on 21 st Aug. Penlee Point: Thirty-three on 26th Apr. Rame Head: Thirty-three on 22nd Apr. Trevose Head: Thirty-three on 1st May and twenty-two on 14th May.

GARDEN WARBLER - Sylvia borin Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Widely distributed in suitable habitat east of Truro. It was formerly scarce in the west of the county, but there are now regular breeding season reports from several areas. Numbers reported this year were higher than last year, but were only about average for recent years. The earliest report since 1935 was on 3rd March 2001 at Golitha/Draynes Wood, and the latest near St. Just on 17th November 1982. However, there was also an assumed over-wintering bird that was seen nine times at Phillack between 6th and 25th January 1994. The earliest report this year was on 20th April at Land's End, and the latest at Land's End on 2nd November. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 9 60 32 5 13 4 2 1 - All reports were of one or two birds apart from the following: Brew, Sennen: Three on 2nd May. Clifford Res: Three on 25th Apr. Goss Moor: Nine on 9th May and four on 19th Jun. Halvana Plantation: Three on 11th Jun. Kit Hill: Three on 8th May. Ninestones: Five on 16th May. Penlee reserve: Three on 17th May. Tregoss: Four on 5th Jun. Trevose Head: Three on 2nd May

BLACKCAP - Sylvia atricapilla Breeding summer visitor, passage migrant and winter visitor This species tends to be under-recorded in the summer months, but catches the attention in winter. Reported numbers were about average for recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 36 19 10 107 101 22 23 11 22 252 83 34 Records include: Cot Valley: Eight on 27th Oct. Halvana Plantation: Eight on 30th May. Kenidjack: Five on 12th Oct, six on 27th Oct and nine on 30th Oct. Land's End: Five on 1st May and six on 1st Nov. Nanjizal: Five on 16th Apr, 25th Apr, 12th Jul, 21st Jul and 3rd Aug: Six on 2nd Jul, ten on 3rd Jul

126 and ten on 5th Sep: Five on 6th Sep, eight on 10th Sep and six on 28th Sep: Seven on 7th Oct, five on 12th Oct and six on 18th Oct: Fourteen on 30th Oct, twenty on 31st Oct, seven on 5th Nov and six on 6th Nov. Nanquidno: Eight on 16th Oct. Porth Joke: Five on 25th Sep. Porth Res: Five on 25th Sep. Porthgwarra: Six on 30th Oct and twenty on 5th Nov. Sennen Cove: Eight on 26th Oct: Five on 28th Oct. Trembath: Five on 16th May. Trevose Head: Twelve on 1st and 3rd May.

PALLAS'S LEAF WARBLER - Phylloscopus proregulus (Pallas's Warbler) Scarce vagrant in late autumn Brew, Sennen: One on 1st Nov was one of the Land's End birds MWa. Kenidjack: One on 31st Dec DP. Land's End: Two ringed on 31st Oct MWa. Nanjizal: Three on 31st Oct, two of which were ringed KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 31st Oct SMC. St Levan: One on 31st Oct RH. The birds on 31 st October moved quickly through. The county mainland total is now c. 59 since 1975. The county's first record was in 1975, the second in 1979 and then four in 1982. There was then a five-year gap before there were records in three successive years up to 1987. This was followed by another five-year gap and then by annual records from 1994 to 1999. After a good year in 1999 when there were nine records, there were no records for two years and only one in 2002, but 2003 was the best ever with eleven records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ------43 14 3

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER - Phylloscopus inornatus Regular vagrant that has wintered Brew, Sennen: Two ringed on 11th Oct MWa: One ringed on 20th Oct MWa. Church Cove, Lizard: One on 27th - 29th Oct PAF, AHs, DE. Cot Valley: One on 7th Oct LPW. Egloshayle: One on 30th Jan - 3rd Feb CS. Marazion: One on 24th Nov DP. Nancledra: One on 16th Oct NJH. Nanjizal: One on 12th Oct KAW: One ringed on 20th Oct MWa. Nanquidno: One on 16th Oct CMo, DSF, HK, DBu, IMcK. Ponsanooth: One on 18th Oct DP. Rospannel: One ringed on 8th Oct KH. Sennen: One on 16th Oct MTE. Truro: One on 6th - 18th Apr DE. The county total is now c. 481 since 1950. The ten-year running average has increased steadily since the early 1980's. This year's total was approximately forty per cent below the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly breakdown (historic) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 1 1 1 1 - - - 23 396 42 11

127 HUME'S LEAF WARBLER - Phylloscopus humei (Hume's Yellow-browed Warbler) Rare vagrant Carnon Downs: One on 24th - 26th Feb JMT et al. possibly this species Helston Sewage Works: One on 13th - 15th Nov ARP, CS. The mainland total is now c. 5 since 1998. The first record was of one in Church Cove, The Lizard on 22nd - 23rd November 1998; one paid a brief visit to Porthgwarra on 23rd December 2001 and the third was in Cot Valley on 25th - 26th October 2003. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 1

DUSKY WARBLER - Phylloscopus fuscatus Rare vagrant Coombe, Fowey: One on 1st - 21st Jun had a damaged wing BSW, SMC et al. Nanjizal: One on 16th - 17th Jan KAW, IMW. The county mainland total is now c. 16 since 1985. Previous records have been at Cot in 1985, Kenidjackinl992, Harlyn Bay in 1992, Bude Marshes in 1995, Kenidjack in 1995, Porthgwarra in 1996, Sennen in 1998, Nanjizal in 1999, Treen in 2000, Porthgwarra in 2000, Brew in 2001, St Levan in 2001, Land's End in 2003 and Nanjizal in 2003. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 - - - - 1 - - - 6 6 1

WOOD WARBLER - Phylloscopus sibilatrix A scarce passage migrant, and a rare breeding summer visitor in the past Most breeding season records were received from the broad-leaved woodlands around Bodmin and the valleys of the rivers Fowey, Camel, Lynher and Tamar, but the number of singing males fluctuated and site fidelity was not assured from year to year. Breeding now appears to have ceased as none has been recorded since 2000. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1977 - - - 1 - 1 3 3 - - - - 1978 - - - 2 4 2 1 1 - - - - 1979 - - - - 5 4 1 - 1 - - - 1980 - - - - 9 1 ------1981 - - - - 1 - - - - 1 - - 1982 - - - 2 2 - - - 1 1 1 - 1983 - - - 1 - - 3 4 1 - - - 1984 - - - 4 9 3 - 2 2 - - - 1985 - - - - 3 1 - - 1 2 - - 1986 - - - 1 6 1 2 1 2 1 - - 1987 - - - 5 8 3 1 - 1 1 - - 1988 - - - 6 5 1 - - 2 - - - 1989 - - - 3 18 4 2 - - - - - 1990 - - - - 10 1 3 2 - - - - 1991 - - - - 9 1 - 1 5 - - - 1992 - - - 1 10 3 - 1 - 1 - - 1993 - - - 3 12 - - - 1 - - - 1994 - - - 1 10 - - 1 1 - - - 1995 - - - 2 5 - - 3 - - - - 128 1996 2 5 1 1 1 3 1997 1 3 1998 1 6 3 2 1999 - - 3 3 1 - 2000 1 5 1 2001 - 1 1 - 2002 2 1 1 2003 2 2004 2 1 The earliest report since 1935 was on 2nd April 1978 at , and the latest at Rame Head on 29th October 1987. This year the first report was at Brew on 1st May, and the last on 6th May at Luckett Woods. Brew, Sennen: Two ringed on 1st May MWa. Luckett Woods: One on 6th May MB . The mainland total is now c. 12 since breeding ceased in 2000. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 2 5 - - 2 1 2 - -

COMMON CHIFFCHAFF - Phylloscopus collybita (Chiffchaff) Common breeding summer visitor and passage migrant, with small numbers over-wintering Numbers have increased during recent years. Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Thirty on 30th Oct. Caerthillian Cove: Thirty on 29th Oct. Camon Downs: Thirty on 28th Feb and twenty-nine on 8th Dec. Cot Valley: Fifty on 10th Oct. Helston Sewage Works: Sixty on 21st Jan. Land's End: Thirty-three on 28th Oct, thirty-five on 29th Oct, forty on 30th Oct and thirty on 2nd Nov. Lowland Point: Thirty on 2nd May. Nanjizal: Thirty on 28th Jun, thirty-two on 12th Jul, thirty on 18th Jul and 30th Oct. Penlee Point: Fifty on 12th Apr. Sennen Cove: 150 on 27th Oct. Siblyback Res: Sixty on 8th Sep. St. Austell Sewage Works: 100 on 6th Jan, 120 on 8th Jan, 130 on 12th and 17th Jan, 100 on 23rd Feb and 19th Dec.

Pale birds showing characteristics of the Siberian races P c. tristis and P. c. abietinus (some clines between these two sub-species are similar in look and call, so identifying such individuals is safer when done in the hand; tristis in India are dark birds lacking any green tones on their upper parts, unlike the pale frosty birds that are often labelled as tristis) were reported as follows: Botus Fleming: One on 21st Apr KP. Camon Downs: Five on 28th Feb DE. Church Cove: One on 29th Oct AHs. Drift Res: One on 29th Feb DSF. Harlyn Bay: Last year's bird to 17th Jan SMC, LW. Kenidjack: One on 1st Jan HK. Land's End: One on 30th Oct MWa. Nanjizal: One on 26th Oct, one on 30th Oct and one on 5th Nov was joined by a second bird on 6th Nov KAW.

129 St. Austell Sewage Works: One on 1st Feb, three on 2nd Feb, two on 5th Feb and two on 10th - 26th Feb RL: One on 3rd Mar CS: Two on 5th Mar, one on 6th - 7th Mar and one on 22nd Mar RL Treve Common: One on 15th Dec MWa.

WILLOW WARBLER - Phylloscopus trochilus Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Numbers have been reducing during recent years. Whereas there used to be more Willow Warblers than Common Chiffchaffs at some sites, the converse now applies. The earliest report since 1932 was on 2nd March 2001 at Wheal Kitty, and the latest at Par Beach Pool on 13th December 2001. However, a bird also over-wintered at Helston Sewage Works between 12th December 1996 and 1st January 1997. This year the earliest was on 26th March at Walmsley Sanctuary, and the latest was at Land's End on 11th November. Reports include: Breney Common: Twenty on 19th Apr. Colliford Res: Twenty-one on 25th Apr. Halvana Plantation: Twenty-one on 30th May. Land's End: Twenty on 9th Apr, thirty-five on 11th Apr, forty-five on 1 st May and thirty-one on 5th Aug. Lizard Point: Eighty on 11th Apr. Nanjizal: Twenty on 9th and 12th Apr and thirty-five on 1st May. Penlee Battery: 125 on 21st Aug. Porthgwarra: Thirty on 8th and 11th Apr. Trevose Head: Fifty-five on 3rd Aug, thirty-two on 4th Aug and forty-five on 10th Aug. Windmill Farm: Thirty-eight on 1st May.

GOLDCREST - Regulus regulus Common breeding resident and passage migrant This year's autumn passage was significantly higher than during the previous four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May J un Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 72 93 84 9 2 1 - 4 354 1,616 311 191 Reports include: Cot Valley: Sixty on 10th Oct. Land's End: Twenty on 7th and fifty on 11th Oct. Nanjizal: 100 on 7th Oct, sixty on 8th Oct, fifty on 18th Oct, thirty on 20th Oct and sixty on 26th Oct. Nanquidno: Forty-three on 7th Oct. Porthgwarra: Thirty-six on 8th Oct, thirty-two on 11th Oct and seventy on 16th Oct. Rumps Point: 150 on 24th Sep. St. Austell Sewage Works: Sixty on 12th Jan and 12th Feb, thirty on 12th Mar, sixty on 17th Nov and forty on 14th Dec.

FIRECREST - Regulus ignicapilla Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor Overall numbers vary appreciably from year to year, and this year were a little above the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 27 16 13 - - - - 4 66 57 36

130 Reports include: Chyuerton: Five on 6th Dec. Coronation Park, Wadebridge: Four on 31st Oct. Nanjizal: Six on 20th Nov St. Austell Sewage Works: Four on 13th and 20th Jan and 30th Dec.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER - Muscicapa striata Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant Reported numbers were a little below the average of recent years. The earliest report since 1932 was on 25th March 1979 at Bude, and the latest at St Mawgan on 3rd November 1996. This year the earliest was on 1st May at Trevose Head, and the latest was at Forder on 25th October. Spotted Flycather (Kester Wilson) Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - - 72 39 30 74 43 7 - - Reports include: Cot Valley: Five on 10th Aug. Crowdy Res: Twenty-five on 31st Aug. Loe Pool: Two adults feeding three young on 25th Jul. Nanquidno: Five on 8th Aug and 8th Sep. Penlee Battery: Eight on 21 st Aug. Trevose Head: Five on 8th Sep.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula parva Vagrant in autumn. Kenidjack: One on 12th Oct JMT, DBu, SMC. Nanjizal: One on 12th Oct KAW. The county mainland total moves to c.133 since 1949. Kenidjack has now had eight records and Nanjizal two, but Porthgwarra has most with thirty-five. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 - - - 2 33 90 7 -

PIED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula hypoleuca Scarce breeding summer visitor and passage migrant This species first bred at Lanhydrock in 1966. There were only six more confirmed instances in the county up to 1980. Subsequently, small populations became established at Lanhydrock and in the Camel Valley, and more recently in the Upper Fowey Valley. These populations have fluctuated markedly from year to year owing to variable breeding success, but there has been a steady decline since 1993. After last year's exceptional numbers, this year was poor. The earliest report since 1933 was on 10th March 1997 at Duckpool, and the latest at Porthgwarra on 6th November 1993. This year the earliest was on 11th April at St. Levan, and the latest at Cot Valley on 10th October. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 3 8 - - 33 25 4 - -

131 All reports were of one or two birds apart from the following: Land's End: Three on 1st May and 6th - 7th Sep. Porthgwarra: Three on 12th Aug and 6th Sep.

BEARDED TIT - Panurus biarmicus An irruptive species that occasionally disperses into the county. Marazion Marsh: Birds from last year remained until 28th Mar with maximum seven in Jan, four in Feb and eight in Mar DSF. Par Beach Pool: Two from last year to 25th Mar SMC, BMP. The county mainland remains at c. 234 since 1965. Many of the historic records are from thirty and more years ago. Twenty two were seen at Marazion Marsh on 17th October 1965, forty were at the same site on 22nd October and nineteen at Porthgwarra on 14th October to 4th November 1972 following an irruption from Holland, and ten were also seen at Marazion Marsh on 27th October 1973. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 8 1 1 1 - - - 185 21 14 *one undated

LONG-TAILED TIT - Aegithalos caudatus Breeding resident that disperses in good breeding seasons Reported numbers are better than last year but about average for the 2000's. Reports include: Camel Trail: Fifty-five on 1st Oct. Chyuerton: Twenty-eight on 16th Dec. Gannel Est: Thirty-one on 19th Oct. Marazion Marsh: Thirty-five on 17th Aug. St. Austell Sewage Works: Seventy on 7th Jan, fifty on 2nd Feb and sixty on 24th Dec.

MARSH TIT - Parus palustris Breeding resident There were reports of birds from thirty-two localities, eight less than last year. All reports were of one or two birds apart from the following: Chyuerton: Three on 16th Dec and six on 29th Dec. Ponts Mill: Three on 19th Apr.

WILLOW TIT - Parus montanus Scarce breeding resident The Willow Tit has a patchy distribution in Cornwall, occurring in damp and scrubby woodland to the east and north of Indian Queens, with population centres historically at Goss Moor, Redmoor, St. Austell, Upper Fowey Valley and Tamar Lakes. The species is largely sedentary and has contracted in range. Sightings are rare in the west of the county. Reports were received from only nine localities, one less than last year and two less than the year before. All reports were of single birds apart from the following: Crowdy Res: Two on 18th Jul. Goss Moor: Two on 16th Feb and three on 19th Jun. Maer Lake: Two on 9th Jun.

132 Ninestones: Two on 27th Jul. Park Clay Pit: Two on 28th Jun.

Upper Tamar Lake: Two on 23rd Jan and four on 28th Aug.

COAL TIT - Parus ater Breeding resident with some dispersal in good breeding seasons Found in coniferous woodland in the east of the county, and a regular visitor to garden feeders. Birds remain fairly faithful to home ranges, but there can be dispersal in autumn and winter that is thought to result from food shortages. Numbers increased as conifer plantations were expanded, but there has been a reduction in recent years. Reports include: Chyuerton: Nine on 29th Dec. Holmbush: Five on 24th Dec. Loe Pool: Five on 29th Oct. Porthgwarra: Ten on 18th Oct.

BLUE TIT - Parus caeruleus Breeding resident with some dispersal Reports include: Beagles Dip: Twenty on 20th Sep. Gannel Est: Twenty-six on 19th Oct. Marazion Marsh: Thirty on 17th Aug. St. Austell Sewage Works: Twenty on 24th Dec.

GREAT TIT - Parus major Breeding resident with some dispersal

WOOD NUTHATCH - Sitta europaea (Nuthatch) Breeding resident The species is found in most suitable deciduous woodland. There were reports from forty-eight localities. Reports include: Cotehele House: Seven on 2nd Apr. Dunmere Woods: Four on 22nd Apr. Lamorna: Three on 4th Apr. Trengwainton Gardens: Three on 4th Apr.

EURASIAN TREECREEPER - Certhia familiaris (Treecreeper) Breeding resident with some short distance dispersal Reported from twenty-six localities, five less than last year. Reports include: Brickmoor Plantation: Two on 26th Apr. Friendship Wood: Two on 28th Feb and 19th Jun. St. Austell Sewage Works: Two on 21st Nov and 14th Dec. Tehidy Country Park: Two on 31st Dec. Upper Tamar Lake: Two on 16th Nov.

133 EURASIAN PENDULINE TIT - Remiz pendulinus (Penduline Tit) Rare vagrant Land's End: One on 26th Oct MWa. The county mainland total is now c. 7 since 1993. Previous records were of four at Land's End on 11th - 13th October 1993, one at Ryan's Field in Hayle on 2nd December 1996 - 10th January 1997 and a first calendar on 15th - 17th October 2003. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 6 1

EURASIAN GOLDEN ORIOLE - Oriolus oriolus (Golden Oriole) Scarce passage migrant, mainly spring overshoots from continental Europe that has been annual since 1971 Adams Hill, St. Buryan: Two on 16th May JL. Porthgwarra: One on 8th Jun MDW. St. Neot: A male on 16th May AECA. The county total is now c. 218 since 1945. The average number of records in the 1970's was less than two per annum, increased to over five in the 1980's, and was almost ten in the 1990's. Most reports were received in 1984 when there were twenty-one records. This year's total of three is the lowest since 1991 when there were also three records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 29 154 20 4 3 4 3 - -

RED-BACKED SHRIKE - Lanius collurio Uncommon drift migrant, mainly in autumn, that last bred in 1960 Drift: A male on 13th Oct RI et al. St. Buryan: A male on 30th May TG. Treve Common, Land's End: Female on 8th - 9th Jun shared the field with a Woodchat Shrike MWa. The county mainland total is now c. 123 since 1940. Sennen has had four records, Land's End six and Predannack Airfield two. Porthgwarra has had most records with twenty-three. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 - 14 15 - 16 45 29 3 -

WOODCHAT SHRIKE - Lanius senator Rare drift migrant that has been annual since 1979 Brew: A second cal female on 7th June MWa Land's End: A second cal male on 7th - 11th Jun MWa. Marazion Marsh: One on 26th Apr per DSF. Rospannel/Polgigga: A first cal on 2nd - 5th Sep MDW. Regular coverage of the Land's End area during the last two years has proved it to be the best place for shrikes in the county. The mainland total is now c. 93 since 1949. Land's End has now had ten records, but Porthgwarra has most with eighteen. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - 1 15 33 11 2 14 11 5 1 - 134 EURASIAN JAY - Garrulus glandarius (Jay) Breeding resident with occasional large irruptions An article in Birds in Cornwall 1983 provided details of an invasion by this species; there were reports of large movements of Jays across Poland, Northern France and the Channel, and they were first reported in Cornwall on 5th October. There were three thousand and twenty-one recorded between 8th and 14th October and seven thousand four hundred and eight between 15th and 21st October, but they moved on quickly and numbers were back to normal during the last ten days of the month. The largest counts were one thousand two hundred and fifty near St Just on 17th October and one thousand at Mullion on 19th October. A common but under-recorded species that is usually seen as single birds or pairs, it was reported from seventy-six locations, fifteen more than last year. Reports include: Boscundle: Four on 24th Apr. Bussavean Farm: Five on 2nd Apr. Loe Pool: Four on 1st Dec and five on 25th and 28th Dec. Nanjizal: Four on 25th Apr. Nansmellyn: Four on 9th May.

BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE - Pica pica (Magpie) Breeding resident This is a species that is increasing on a national basis. The largest ever count in the county was one of one hundred and thirty at Treesmill on 24th January 1990. Reports include: Antony Estate: Thirteen on 25th Sep. Loe Pool: Thirty-nine on 25th Dec. Marazion Marsh: Forty on 10th Feb. Penlee Point: Twenty-two on 15th Nov. Porthgwarra: Twelve on 30th Oct and seventeen on 31st Oct. Rame, Rame Head: Eighteen on 10th Jan. St. Buryan: Fourteen on 22nd Aug. Tredavoe: Eighteen on 10th Feb.

RED-BILLED CHOUGH - Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax (Chough) Resident breeder, occasional visitor and escapee This species is an amber listed bird of conservation concern. The small group of Choughs on the Lizard maintained their presence all year. The pair nested again this year and four young were fledged. Some of the group have moved to other parts of the far southwest. Reports elsewhere include: Adams Hill, St. Buryan: One on 31st Mar JL. Land's End area as far as Nanquidno and Porthgwarra: One intermittently on 4th Feb - 11th Oct MWa. : One on 26th Nov and four on 31st Dec ARP.

135 EURASIAN JACKDAW - Corvus monedula (Jackdaw) Breeding resident Large flocks have been reported in the past, twenty thousand at Porthgwarra on 23rd October 1983, nine thousand at the Ladock roost in 1988 and three thousand at Pinkson Creek on 4th November 1995, but the maximum count this year was only two hundred. Reports include: Higher Lampetho Farm: 200 on 28th Sep. Lizard Village: 100 on 6th Jul. Trereife: 124 on 29th Feb. Jackdaw (Kester Wilson) ROOK - Corvus frugilegus Breeding resident Of the common members of the family Corvidae, only the Rook has been reducing in numbers on a national basis, most likely owing to changes in the way farmland is worked. A census in 1976 produced reports of six hundred and eighteen rookeries and thirteen thousand nine hundred and thirty-eight nests. Pinkson Creek was the site of a flock of two thousand on 4th November 1995, but this year's maximum was only six hundred. Reports include: Gannel Est: 600 on 14th Jul. Goonhilly Downs: 267 on 28th May.

CARRION CROW - Corvus corone Breeding resident Movements of this bird are difficult to detect in the southwest because there is a resident population that moves around in family parties. Large concentrations do occur, mainly at estuaries where there are good feeding areas, and five hundred were reported at Penlee Point on 12th January 1980. This year's maximum was only one hundred and twenty. Records include: Deweymeads: 120 on 14th Jun and 130 on 17th Jun. Hayle Est: Fifty-nine on 27th Jun. Porthgwarra: Fifty-five on 31st Oct. St. Austell Sewage Works: Seventy-five on 11th Jan.

HOODED CROW - Corvus cornix Rare Visitor Kynance: One on 12th Apr MT. Land's End: One all year MWa. Lizard Village: One on 8th Apr MT. Polgigga: One on 31st Oct JDB, GSB, SMC. Sennen Cove: One on 29th Dec IE. Skewjack: One on 12th Apr DSF. A single bird, presumably from last year, moved around the far west of the county. There was also a second, hybrid bird in the Land's End area on 13th October and 30th December.

136 The county mainland total remains at c. 61 since 1941. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 6 7 3 9 7 3 1 3 1 7 6 8

COMMON RAVEN - Corvus corax (Raven) Breeding resident Many sightings are of pairs calling to each other as they fly overhead, but they also gather in flocks. Reports include: Colliford Res: Twenty on 16th Jan. Davidstow: Fifteen on 31st Aug. Helston: Twelve on 13th Sep. Mutton's Downs: Fifty on 11th Apr. Park Clay Pits: Fourteen on 25th Jan, twenty-six on 10th Mar and ten on 12th Jun. Trevose Head: Twelve on 11th Sep.

COMMON STARLING - Sturnus vulgaris (Starling) Breeding resident and winter visitor Most winter visitors have left the county by the end of February. Breeding takes place across the county, but information during the summer months is very limited. The mild winters of recent years are presumably the reason why we are not seeing the numbers that caused an observer at Crowdy Reservoir in 1991 to comment "millions, too many to count". Reports include: Marazion Marsh: 200,000 on 5th Jan: 50,000 on 14th and 21st Jan: 1,500,000 on 22nd Jan: 200,000 on 26th Jan: 100,000 on 10th Feb: 109,000 on 10th Nov and 100,000 on 16th Nov. Porthgwarra: 2,000 on 26th Oct. St. Levan: 4,000 on 26th Oct. Trevilley: 4,000 on 26th Oct. Trewidden: 1,500 on 13th Jan.

ROSY STARLING - Sturnus roseus (Rose-coloured Starling) Regular vagrant Barbilan Court, East Looe: One on 9th Aug BLW. East Looe: One on 17th - 18th Aug was presumably the Barbilan Court bird FS. Flexbury: A first cal on 12th Oct HK. Fowey: One on 6th - 16th Jun BSr, BSW. Helston: One on 3 rd Jun EC J. Kuggar: One on 30th Oct ARP. Land's End: One on 4th - 5th Sep MWa. Penzance: Last year's bird intermittently to 5th Apr DE et al. Trevose Head: A first cal on 6th Sep SMC, L&DF. The county mainland total is now c. 85 since 1965. After the influx in 2002 when there were twenty- five records, numbers reduced to twelve last year and seven this year, still above the average of previous years.. Land's End/Sennen has now had twelve records. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 - - - 1 22 7 4 21 22 5 1

137 HOUSE SPARROW - Passer domesticus Breeding resident This species has suffered a dramatic reduction in numbers across the . Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Pelynt, Beacon Park 21 31 32 25 18 17 31 85 36 45 23 33 Sancreed 8 14 12 12 12 12 74 74 20 15 14 10 Other reports include: Bucklers Village: Forty-two on 12th Sep. Gannel Est: Forty-nine on 10th Aug. Nanjizal: Thirty-five on 26th Nov. Newlyn Coombe: Thirty-five on 8th Jul. St. Columb Major: Thirty-five on 25th Dec. St. Winnow: Fifty on 25th Jan, thirty-five on 10th Oct and fifty-five on 12th Dec. Trevalga: Ninety on 11th Jul. Trevilley: Sixty on 10th Nov.

EURASIAN TREE SPARROW - Passer montanus (Tree Sparrow) Occasional sightings of dispersing birds but bred in 1990 and 1999 - 2002 It is known that most sightings are likely to be of dispersing birds, with the peak in May resulting from birds searching for new nesting sites. Brew, Sennen: One on 23rd Apr MWa. Cam Gloose: One on 25th May JL. Land's End: Singles on 2nd May, 12th and 25th Oct MWa. St. Germans: One on 1st May RF&MC. Trevose Head: Two on 6th - 7th Sep SMC, L&DF. The county mainland total is c. 235 since 1945. Porthgwarra is the most frequently visited site with seventeen reports of sixty-nine birds. Approximate monthly totals (historic)*: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 6 6 7 85 8 14 8 5 47 19 16 * nine undated

CHAFFINCH - Fringilla coelebs Breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers reported were about average for recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2,021 2,090 665 23 10 10 46 20 242 3,635 1,692 1,540 Reports include: Lanhydrock: 300 on 31st Dec. Maker: 200 on 4th - 20th Dec. Penlee Battery: 400 on 10th Jan. Penmillard: 300 on 2nd Nov. Pentire, Newquay: 210 on 10th Feb. Porthgwarra: 320 on 8th Oct: 220 on 18th and 226 on 26th Oct: 1,015 on 30th Oct. Trereife: 300 on 27th Feb. Trevone: 300 on 4th Jan. Trevose Head: 430 on 4th Jan: 550 on 17th and 24th Jan: 350 on 1st Feb: 285 on 4th and 210 on 13th Mar.

138 Windmill Farm: 250 on 14th and 300 on 16th Jan: 300 on 13th and 250 on 22nd Feb: 250 on 27th Nov and 4th and 29th Dec.

BRAMBLING - Fringilla montifringilla Winter visitor and passage migrant Numbers were about a quarter down on the recent average. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 129 14 34 1 - - - - - 28 33 - Report include: Argal Res: 110 on 9th and ten on 18th Jan. Brew, Sennen: Two on 30th Oct. Heamoor: One on 24th Feb. Kenidjack: One on 19th Oct. Land's End: Two's on 18th and 26th Oct, one on 25th Oct and two on 31st Oct: Three on 2nd Nov, six on 11th Nov and one on 14th Nov. Millbrook: One on 4th Apr. Nanjizal: Two on 7th Mar and one on 25th Mar. One on 8th and six on 26th Oct. Penberth: One on 10th Oct. Penlee Battery: Five on 1st - 10th Jan. Penmillard: Singles on 7th and 14th Feb, three on 21st Feb and twenty-two on 6th Mar. Porthgwarra: One on 8th Oct and three on 12th Oct: Singles on 26th and 30th Oct and two on 31st Oct: One on 3rd Nov, twenty on 5th Nov and one on 15th Nov. Sconner Farm: One on 1st Jan. St. Austell Sewage Works: One on 16th Feb. Trengwainton: Five on 10th Feb. Trethewey: One on 26th Mar. Trevilley: One on 10th Nov. Trevose Head: One on 4th - 24th Jan: Two on 28th Jan. Trinity Fields, Sennen: One on 16th Oct. Windmill Farm: Singles on 22nd and 29th Feb, 13th Mar and 20th Oct: Two on 31st Oct.

EUROPEAN SERIN - Serinus serinus (Serin) Drift migrant and occasional winter visitor Land's End: One on 26th Oct MWa: Two on 8th Nov MWa. Trevilley, Sennen: A first cal male on 10th Nov was one of the Land's End birds MWa. The county total now advances to c. 133 since 1967. Land's End has now had ten records, Nanjizal eleven, Porthgwarra thirty-one, Trevose Head five and Windmill Farm has had two. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 9 8 22 20 1 - - 9 32 25 5

EUROPEAN GREENFINCH - Carduelis chloris (Greenfinch) Breeding resident that disperses widely This species wanders widely and has become well adapted to a suburban lifestyle, feeding on garden bird feeders. Reports include: Demain Farm: Fifty on 5th Nov.

139 Kilmarth: Sixty on 15th Feb. Land's End: 300 on 18th Oct: 450 on 25th Oct: 400 on 26th Oct and 180 on 28th Oct. Marazion Marsh: Eighty on 25th Oct and 2nd Nov. Menabilly: Fifty on 16th Feb, 28th Sep, 7th Oct and 10th Dec. Par Beach: Eighty on 20th Jan and sixty on 15th Feb. Polkerris: Sixty on 17th Jan. Porthgwarra: 243 on 26th Oct, 242 on 30th Oct and sixty-five on 5th Nov. Treve Common: Sixty on 15th Dec.

EUROPEAN GOLDFINCH - Carduelis carduelis (Goldfinch) Breeding resident, summer visitor, passage migrant and winter visitor Overall numbers were lower than during the previous four years. Reports include: Argal Res: 120 on 9th Jan. Durgan: 100 on 16th Sep. Empacombe: 130 on 1st Jan. Kilmarth: 120 on 16th Feb. Land's End/Sennen: 300 on 17th Sep. Menabilly Barton: 100 on 28th Sep Portmellon: 200 on 28th Aug. St. Andrew's Pool: 100 on 9th Dec. Trevose Head: 120 on 4th Oct.

EURASIAN SISKIN - Carduelis spinus (Siskin) Scarce breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Prior to 1970, the Siskin was only a rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Winter numbers increased almost annually and the species then established itself as a regular breeding species in the mid-1980's, partly owing to the increase in coniferous plantations on Bodmin Moor. Numbers were significantly lower than during the previous four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 50 31 10 22 60 30 24 4 - 100 19 - Reports include: Cabilla Woods: Twenty on 16th Jan. Land's End: Twenty on 26th Oct. Wadebridge: Twenty-one on 5th Jan.

COMMON LINNET - Carduelis cannabina (Linnet) Breeding resident, summer visitor and passage migrant Unlike many farmland species, there has not been a dramatic reduction in the Linnet population and they can be seen on most open areas of coastal gorse during summer. Numbers reported this year were in line with recent years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 888 710 603 570 11 27 610 354 1,772 4,137 595 1,815 Reports include: Bake Lakes: 500 on 11th Dec. Bogee, Rumford: 450 on 16th Sep.

140 Maer Lake: 250 on 21st Nov. Maker: 400 on 4th - 20th Dec. Military Road, Penlee: 400 on 1st - 10th Jan. Pentire, Newquay: 450 on 10th Feb. Rame Head: 300 on 8th Oct. Trevose Head: 350 on 6th and 8th Oct. Wiggle: 2,000 on 8th Oct.

LESSER REDPOLL - Carduelis cabaret (Redpoll) Scarce resident, uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor Although marginally better than 2000, numbers this year were lower than the three previous years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 1 13 17 8 1 - 11 - 1 All reports were of one to three birds apart from the following: Crowdy Res: A pair and three young on 1st Jul. Halvana Plantation: Four on 3rd Jun. Smallacombe Plantation: Two pairs on 3rd Jun.

COMMON CROSSBILL - Loxia curvirostra (Crossbill) Occasional winter visitor that has been recorded annually since 1979 and has bred Numbers of this irruptive species vary substantially from year to year. The aggregate of monthly totals was only twenty-two this year, below the average of one hundred and fifty-nine for the previous ten years that contained the exceptional year of 1997 when the aggregate was nine hundred and six. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 - - - - 1 5 4 8 2 1 Croft Pascoe Plantation: Five on 30th Jul ARP. Crowdy Res: Two on 3rd Aug SMC, AJB. Cury Cross Lanes: Six on 6th Oct MT. Halvana Plantation: Two on 15th Oct DAC. Hustyn Wood: Two on 23rd Nov CS. Land's End: One on 1st Aug MWa. Nanjizal: One on 16th Jan KAW. Penlee Battery: One on 7th Aug RMB. Smallacombe Plantation: One on 3rd Jun SMC. Ventongimps: Five on 23rd Dec APH.

COMMON ROSEFINCH - Carpodacus erythrinus (Scarlet Rosefinch) Regular vagrant, mainly in autumn Land's End: One first cal ringed on 19th Sep MWa. The county mainland total increases to c. 36 since 1945, with all but two since 1984. Porthgwarra has most records with seven. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - 1 - - 2 3 2 - 12 15 1 _

141 COMMON BULLFINCH - Pyrrhula pyrrhula (Bullfinch) Breeding resident with some dispersal This timid species tends to move around in pairs or small family groups and, consequently, is often not fully recorded. Ringing activities indicate that there is a continuous small turnover of birds after the breeding season, further increasing the difficulty of compiling accurate information. The number of birds reported this year was higher than during the previous four years. Reports include: Halvana Plantation: Six on 30th May. Loe Pool: six on 25th Dec. Porthgwarra: Twelve on 30th Oct. St. Columb Major: Five on 25th Dec. Smallacombe Plantation: Six on 3rd Jun. Ventongimps: Seven on 20th Dec. Windmill Farm: Six on 25th Aug and 17th Oct. Common Bullfinch (Kester Wilson)

HAWFINCH - Coccothraustes coccothraustes Occasional visitor Coronation Park, Wadebridge: One on 31st Oct CS. Nanjizal: One on 24th - 25th May KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 28th Mar SMC, BP. The county total is now c. 101 since 1933. Records are well spread, but Porthgwarra has had seven records and Nanjizal has had nine. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 8 4 9 9 6 6 7 - 4 34 7 7

LAPLAND LONGSPUR - Calcarius lapponicus (Lapland Bunting) Scarce drift migrant in autumn, and rare winter visitor that is rarely seen inland There has been a steady growth in numbers since the 1970's; there was only one record in 1974. This year numbers were twice as high as the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 4 2 15 6 - - - - 7 22 13 5 Brew, Sennen: One on 20th Nov MWa. Land's End: One on 15th Sep FJH: One on 18th Oct VRT: One on 26th Oct RI: One on 16th Nov MWa: One on 29th Nov MWa: Two on 10th Dec DAC. Nanjizal: One on 15th Sep KAW. Pentire: One on 18th Jan SMC. Porthgwarra: One on 24th - 25th Sep RSm: One on 18th Oct RSm, SMC: Two on 26th Oct JL: One on 30th Oct and three on 31st Oct SMC. Porth Joke: One on 25th Sep SGR. Rumps Point: One on 21st Sep CS. St. Levan: Five on 5th Nov SMC, LW. Sancreed: One on 30th Oct DSF. Treve Common: One on 13th Dec MWA. Trevilley: Two on 13th Oct MWa. Trevone: One on 4th Jan SMC.

142 Trevose Head: One on 14th Jan and two on 17th - 24th Jan SMC: Two on 1st Feb and one on 4th Mar SMC: Fifteen on 12th - 13th Mar, five on 17th - 18th Mar SMC: Six on 9th Apr SMC: One on 16th and two on 18th Sep SMC: Two on 9th Oct, four on 11th and 13th Oct, one on 15th - 17th Oct, ten on 19th Oct and five on 20th Oct SMC: Five on 17th Nov, one on 7th Dec, three on 16th Dec and two on 24th Dec SMC. Windmill Farm: One on 16th Oct ARP.

SNOW BUNTING - Plectrophenax nivalis Uncommon drift migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor The approximate monthly totals for the last twenty-five years show considerable fluctuations in numbers between years, but no particular pattern. Numbers this year were about half the average of the previous ten years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3 3 - - 2 - - - 1 21 19 1 Cape Cornwall: One on 22nd Oct. Cam Gloose: One on 25th Jan, two on 12th Feb and one on 22nd Sep. Colliford Res: One on 11th Nov. Crean: One on 3rd - 4th Nov. Higher Tregiffian: One on 11th - 13th Oct. Land's End: Singles on 8th and 29th Oct, and 2nd and 11th Nov. Marazion Beach: One on 30th Nov. Military Road: One on 5th Nov. Nanjizal: Singles on 11th and 29th Oct. Pendeen: One on 7th Oct. Pentire, Newquay: One on 18th Jan. Pentire Point: One on 7th Nov. Penzance: One on 11th May. Porthgwarra: Singles on 16th Oct and 5th Nov: Two on 26th Nov. Rame Church: Two on 2nd Nov. St. Agnes Head: Nine on 8th Oct, four on 20th Oct and one on 31st Oct. St. Ives: Singles on 12th Jan, 17th Jan, 6th Feb, 30th Nov and 2nd Dec. St. Levan: One on 5 th Nov. Sennen: One on 12th Oct: One on 16th Nov. Stithians Res: Three on 14th Nov. Trevilley: Two on 19th Oct. Trevose Head: Singles on 9th - 16th May, 10th - 21st Oct and 1st Nov. Wadebridge: One on 26th Oct.

YELLOWHAMMER - Emberiza citrinella Breeding resident with some dispersal. Like all members of the Emberizidae family, the Yellowhammer is becoming a less and less common sight in the British countryside, its numbers having reduced more quickly than any other farmland species. Overall numbers reported were similar to last year. The records for Pelynt relate to a garden where the owner has put out seed on a daily basis.

143 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Beacon Park, Pelynt 1999 3 3 12 14 16 8 2 3 - 1 10 19 2000 6 24 16 10 6 8 1 - - - 2 8 2001 17 13 14 9 10 9 3 2 - - 4 10 2002 16 12 13 13 10 8 6 2 2 - 1 5 2003 14 12 10 11 7 5 3 - 1 - - 3 2004 8 8 15 16 10 5 3 - - - - 2 Sancreed 2001 4 8 8 4 2 4 4 3 - - 1 6 2002 6 6 6 6 6 6 2 2 - - 2 5 2003 4 5 3 5 4 2 - 1 - 1 2 2 2004 2 4 4 2 - - 3 - 2 - - - Trevose Head 6 20 1 - - - - - 1 3 6 - Reports include: Bofarnel Downs: Five on 15th May. Cot Valley: Six on 4th Aug. Dodman Point: Six on 29th Nov. Jericho Valley: Fourteen on 7th Dec. Menabilly Barton: Six on 21st Dec. St. Neot: Seven on 26th Dec. Trevone: Thirty-five on 4th Jan.

CIRL BUNTING - Emberiza cirlus Rare resident that bred up to 1999 There has been a protracted decline over the last twenty years of this once common and widespread farmland species. Up to fifteen pairs were located in the southeast of the county in 1967 and birds were still present at fifteen sites in 1975. The UK population is almost exclusively restricted to south Devon but a recent increase in that population has not been reflected in Cornwall where this species now maintains only the most tenuous of footholds. Indeed, the Cirl Bunting has become so rare in Cornwall that we wish to receive descriptions for all sightings unless the 'three observer' rule applies. The RSPB is very keen to receive information about sightings so that, if it is established that birds frequent a particular area, they can make efforts to introduce special land management schemes. Rame: Two on 2nd Nov KP, LACT.

ORTOLAN BUNTING - Emberiza hortulana Scarce drift migrant, mainly in autumn Land's End: One on 10th Sep MWa. Mayon Cliff, Land's End: One on 6th Sep RI. Nanjizal: One on 10th Aug KAW: One on 1st Sep KAW. Trevose Head: One on 1st Sep SMC. The county mainland total is now c. 189 since 1956. Most records have been at Porthgwarra where there have been twenty-eight reports. There have been twenty-two at Trevose Head, twenty-eight at Land's End/Sennen, fourteen at Lizard and thirteen at Nanjizal. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec - - - 2 3 - - 18 141 24 1 -

144 LITTLE BUNTING - Emberiza pusilla Rare vagrant Land's End: One on 25th - 26th Oct was the Porthgwarra bird MWa, MTE. Nanjizal: One on 2nd May KAW. Porthgwarra: One on 24th Oct RWi. The mainland total is now c. 19 since 1979. Previous records were at St. Eval in 1979, Rame Head and Porthgwarra in 1981, Skewjack in 1983 and 1984, Lizard in 1986, Sennen in 1987, Tregonetha Downs and Bude and Cape Cornwall in 1992, Porthgwarra in 1993 and 1994 and 1998, Rame and Sennen in 2002, and Sennen and Porthgwarra in 2003. Approximate monthly totals (historic): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 1 - 6 2 - - - - 7 2 -

REED BUNTING - Emberiza schoeniclus Scarce breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor Numbers vary from year to year with no particular trend; this year they were the highest of the last four years. Approximate monthly totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 93 42 26 22 22 28 15 15 21 123 97 42 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Land's End ------1 5 5 9 - Marazion Marsh 5 - - - 1 2 - 4 - 4 6 4 Par Beach Pool 2 5 2 1 1 1 - - - - 1 2 Trevose Head 20 8 3 - - - - - 3 6 10 - Windmill Farm 12 9 7 4 2 - 5 2 4 6 12 13 Reports include: Brew, Sennen: Six on 31st Oct. Harlyn Bay: Eight on 7th Dec. Haye: Eight on 6th Jan. Mayon: Ten on 26th Oct. Porthgwarra: Fifteen on 18th Oct, ten on 26th Oct, twelve on 30th Oct and eight on 5th Nov. Stithians Res: Nine on 4th Dec. Trevone: Ten on 4th Jan.

CORN BUNTING - Emberiza calandra Uncommon breeding resident This species is a red listed bird of conservation concern. Corn Buntings nest later in the season than most farmland birds and their nests are susceptible to harvesting operations. Many farmers on the north coast are now managing their land under the Countrywide Stewardship scheme especially for Corn Buntings. Crops that are not harvested provide safe nesting habitat as well as a year round seed supply, and grass margins provide good foraging opportunities. The RSPB advise that its main foothold is now reduced to a narrow coastal strip between Rumps Point and Newquay, with most of the breeding records coming from only four sites. Most records are now received from Trevose Head and figures for the last five years are shown below.

145 Regular reports & maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Trevose Head 2000 - - - 6 6 12 1 - - - - - 2001 1 - 3 31 5 - - 12 10 7 8 - 2002 - - 20 10 6 - 18 - 15 25 7 24 2003 43 2 6 21 - - - 12 6 10 9 25 2004 36 52 55 15 32 - - 8 18 13 22 16 Other reports include: Harlyn Bay: One on 20th Apr. Land's End/Sennen: Singles on 15th and 23rd Feb and 17th Mar: Singles on 26th and 29th Oct, 1st, 15th - 17th and 23rd Nov: Two on 29th Nov. Lelizzick: One on 16th Jul. Pentire, Newquay: One on 18th Jan and four on 6th Jul. Pentire Farm: Five on 3rd Jun. Pentire Point: Three on 1 st Jun and four on 4th Jun. Porth Joke: One on 10th Oct. Rumps Point: One on 28th Mar and six on 15th Oct. Trebelsue: Two on 12th Apr. Trevelgue: One on 26th Jun. Trevescan: One on 8th Mar.

REPORTS FOR WHICH DESCRIPTIONS ARE STILL REQUIRED

Documentation is required for the following 2004 reports for which descriptions have not been submitted. If you saw and can confirm the details of any of these birds, please forward a description to the County Recorder. Fea's Petrel: One on 3rd Aug at Trevose Head. Little Shearwater: One on 11th Jul at Pentire Point: One on 12th Sep at Pendeen Watch. Wilson's Storm Petrel: One on 14th Sep at St Ives. Great Egret: One on 11th Jan at : One on 11th July on St Enedoc Golf Course. Lesser Scaup: One on 4th - 11th Nov at Dozmary Pool: One on 4th and 27th Dec at Park Clay Pit. European Honey Buzzard: One at Land's End on 10th Sep: One at New Polzeath on 23rd Sep. Black Kite: One at Boscastle on 7th Jun: One at Par on 24th Jun: One at Predannack on 21 st Apr. Pectoral Sandpiper: One at Davidstow on 9th May: One at Loveny Reserve on 5th - 8th Aug. Bonaparte's Gull: One on 24th Jan at Falmouth: One on 16th Mar on Marazion Beach. Ring-billed Gull: One on 7th Dec at Hayle Est: One on 18th Jan at Par Beach Pool: One on 16th - 24th Feb at Par Beach Pool: One on 6th Dec at Wadebridge. Caspian Gull: One on 17th Dec at Par Beach Pool. White-winged Black Tern: One on 15th Aug on the Camel Est. Red-rumped Swallow: One on 17th Mar at Harlyn Bay. Richard's Pipit: One on 18th Jan at Lansallos. Red-throated Pipit: One on 30th Aug at Davidstow Airfield: One on 27th Sep on Reskajeage Downs. Subalpine Warbler: One at Nanquidno on 26th Apr. Woodchat Shrike: One on 24th Jun at Consols Pool, St Ives. Common Rosefinch: One on 17th Oct at Porthgwarra.

146 CORRECTIONS - 2003

Great Northern Diver: Ten at Land's End on 22nd May. Red Kite: The record on 29th May at Military Road Rame should be deleted. Western Yellow-legged Gull: The June record at Sennen should be deleted. Eurasian Reed Warbler: The January record at Land's End should be deleted. Garden Warbler: The reports at Downderry and Land's End should be deleted. Pallas's Warbler: One on 25th October at Porthgwarra (not November). Hume's Leaf Warbler: The initials SP should be added to the Cot Valley record.

FIRST AND LAST DATES FOR SUMMER MIGRANTS (Excluding wintering individuals)

Species Arrival Site Departure Site

European Storm-petrel 5th May St. Ives Island 23rd Oct Mousehole Garganey 3rd Mar Walmsley Sanctuary 27th Oct Marazion Marsh Eurasian Hobby 7th Apr St. Buryan 22nd Oct Wadebridge Sewage W Little Plover 16th Apr Walmsley Sanctuary 22nd Nov Par Beach Pool Wood Sandpiper 25th Apr Drift Reservoir 26th Sep Ryan's Field, Hayle Sandwich Tern 22nd Feb Percuil River 27th Nov Hannafore Common Tern 15th Mar Camel Estuary 6th Nov Kingsmill Lake Arctic Tern 1 st Apr Trevose Head 30th Oct Penzance Little Tern 24th Apr Downderry 21st Sep Pendeen Watch Black Tern 8th Aug Hayle Estuary 30th Oct Newlyn European Turtle Dove 6th Apr Cross Lanes, Cury 30th Oct Goldsithney Common Cuckoo 16th April Windmill Farm 9th Aug Goonhilly Downs European Nightjar 22nd May West Penwith 3 rd Aug The Lizard Common Swift 20th Mar St. Ives 9th Sep Marazion Sand Martin 16th Mar St. Austell Sewage W 9th Oct Downderry Barn Swallow 17th Mar Land's End 9th Dec Long Rock Pool House Martin 8th Feb Marazion Marsh 21st Dec Hayle Estuary Tree Pipit 11th Apr Land's End 30th Oct Land's End Yellow Wagtail 12th Apr Brew 26th Oct Nanjizal Alba/White Wagtail 22nd Jan Hayle Estuary 4th Dec Marazion Marsh Common Redstart 3 rd Apr Sharp Tor 1 st Nov Rame Head Whinchat 1 st May Goonhilly Downs 6th Nov Caerthillian Cove Northern Wheatear 11th Mar St. Agnes Head 30th Oct Cam Gloose Ring Ouzel 12th Apr Cudden Point 7th Nov Dodman Point Grasshopper Warbler 8th Apr Nanjizal 26th Sep Land's End Sedge Warbler 8th Feb Par Beach Pool 10th Sep Land's End Eurasian Reed Warbler 10th Apr Nanquidno 5th Nov Land's End Lesser Whitethroat 23rd Apr Carnon Bridge 26th Oct Penlee Point, Rame Common Whitethroat 7th Apr Land's End 12th Nov Gwennap Sewage W Garden Warbler 20th Apr Land's End 2nd Nov Land's End Wood Warbler 1 st May Brew 6th May Luckett Wood Willow Warbler 26th Mar Walmsley Sanctuary 11th Nov Land's End Spotted Flycatcher 1 st May Trevose Head 25th Oct Forder Pied Flycatcher 11th Apr St. Levan 10th Oct Cot Valley

147 CONTRIBUTORS

R. C. S. Abbott (RCSA) J. Chesher (JCr) J. Gask (JG) D. Adkin (DA) D. J. Chown (DJC) G. S. Gay (GSG) H. Adkins (HA) M. P. Christophers (MPC) T. George (TG) R G. Akers (PGA) S. M. Christophers (SMC) G. Giles (GGi) M. K. Ahmad (MKA) B. Chugg (BC) K. B. Gillam (KBG) P. H. Aley (PHA) J. & D. Chun (J&DC) J. J. Gilroy (JJG) D. M. Allen (DMA) S. Clark (SCI) R. W. Gould (RWG) R. E. Allen (REA) P. Clarke (PC) N. L. Grace (NLG) A. Andreae (AA) D. Clegg (DC) G. Grant (GG) A. E. C. Aston (AECA) G. Cockill (GC) P. Green (PG) A. Atkinson (AAt) D.A. Conway (DAC) M. Greenwood (MG) B. Baker (BBa) G. J. Conway (GJC) R. Greenwood (RG) C. C. Baker (CCB) E. J. Cook (EJC) E. Griffiths (EG) D. E. Balmer (DEB) C. Coombes (CC) G. Gruitt (GGr) R. Barlow (RB) F. M. Couch (FMC) M. Guillisord (MGu) C. Bartlett (CBt) D. R. Courtnell (DRC) E.G. Gynn (EGG) Mr. Basset (MrB) S. Cox (SC) M. C. Hall (MCH) M. Battern (MBa) S. J. Cox (SJC) Y. Sherlock-Hall (YS-H) N. Bayley (NBa) B .T. Craven (BTC) N. J. Hallam (NJH) N. Beasley (NB) P. S. Crockett (PSC) A. P. Hancock (APH) P. J. Bedford (PJB) S. Croft (SCr) B. Hannaford (BHan) M. Beer (MB) D. J. Curtis (DJCu) J. Hannaford (JHan) C. Beesley (CB) M. Dando (MD) R. Hannaford (RHan) R. M. Belringer (RMB) J. & M. Dando (J&MD) R. Harper (RHa) L. Bergis (LB) A. M. J. Davey (AMJD) R. E. Harbird (REH) I. Berry (IB) M. Davis (MDa) A. Harding (AHar) R. Berryford (RBe) R. & H. Dawson (R&HD) A. Harris (AHs) G. S. Bilbao (GSB) D. G. Dennis (DGD) J. Harris (JH) C. L. Bingham (CLB) R. Dennis (RD) R. Harris (RH) A. Birch (AB) B. Dodd (BD) T. Hasdell (TH) Birding South West (BSW) C. & J. Duffy (C&JD) J. Hawkey (JHy) J. Birkett (JB) P.A. Dukes (PAD) M. J. Healan (MJH) W. E. Birkett (WEB) I. & E. Dunn (I&ED) C. D. R. Heard (CDRH) R. Bishop (RBp) S. R. Eddy (SRE) S.J.M. Heather (SJMH) A. & P. B. Blonden (A&PB) P. Edmonds (PE) A. Herbert (AH) T. Blonden (TB) S. B. Edwards (SBE) R. J. Herbert (RJH) A. J. Bond (AJB) M. T. Elliot (MTE) D. Herdson (DH) B. Bowler (BB) S.F. Elton (SFE) C. Hewes (CH) C. Boyd (CBo) D. Eva (DE) Mrs. Hewes (MrsH) A. Boyt (ABo) I. Evans (IE) R. Hibbert (RHi) K. W. Brewster (KWB) L. G. R. Evans (LGRE) N. Hilton (NH) D. Brown (DBn) C. Eyre (CE) G. Hobin (GH) J. D. Bryden (JDB) G. Fabbram (GF) R. Hoddinott (RHo) D. Buckingham (DBu) I. Faichnie (IF) J. Holmes (JHo) P. Bulfield (PBu) Mr. Fitturn (MrF) R. Hooper (RHoo) S. Bury (SB) Ms. Fitturn (MsF) P. Howland (PH) C. Butters (CBu) L. & D. Fletcher (L&DF) F. J. Hull (FJH) B. Byrne (BBy) D.S. Flumm (DSF) G. Husband (GHu) C. Byrne (CBy) T. D. Folland (TDF) S. C. Hutchings (SCH) K. Cairns (KC) P.A. Fraser (PAF) R. Irvine (RI) Bird Call (BCa) R. P. Fray (RPF) S. Jackson (SJ) F. R. Cannings (FRC) P Freestone (PF) S. F. Jackson (SFJ) T. M. Carne (TMC) M. P. Frost (MPF) E. C. James (ECJ) F. E. Carter (FEC) R. M. Frost (RMF) J. W. James (JWJ) N. Chambers (NC) R. Fuller (RF) R. M. James (RMJ) R.F. & M. Champion G. D. Fullery (GDF) D. Jenkins (DJe) (RF&MC) P. A. Gainey (PAG) D. Jennings (DJen) J. Chappie (JC) S. Gantley (SG) D. V. Johns (DVJ)

148 D. Johnson (DJ) A Northey (AN) C. Selway (CS) R. Johnson (RJn) D. Northey (DN) P. Semmens (PS) R. A. Jones (RAJ) M. Northey (MN) P. T. Sillifant (PTS) M. C. Jordan (MCJ) B. & S. Ofield (B&SO) V. Simpson (VS) D. I. Julian (DIJ) R. J. Olliver (RJO) V. Slee (FS) D. Kelsall (DK) M. Orchard (MO) R. Smaldon (RSm) P. 0. Kemp (POK) H. Orford (HO) R. L. Smith (RLS) I. C. H. Kendall (IK) P. O'Shea (PO'S) G. R. Sparshott (GRS) F. H. C. Kendall (FHCK) A. J. & S. A. Park (AJ&SAP) D. Spers (DS) H. Kendall (HK) D. Parker (DP) D. J. Spooner (DJS) R. Kerslake (RK) D. Parslow (DP) B. A. Staley (BAS) J. Kersley (JK) R. Parslow (RP) G. Stevenson (GS) R. W. Key (RWK) J. Pask (JP) A. B. Stewart (ABS) J. Kirk (JKi) E. Paterson (EP) I. R. Stewart (IRS) B. Kirkpatrick (BK) P. N. Paul (PNP) W. Stewart (WS) S. Kolodziejski (SK) A. R. Pay (ARP) J. & R. Stockhausen (J&RS) R. Lane (RL) A. Payne (AP) B. Stone (BSt) A. A. Langford (AAL) D. H. Payne (DHP) I Stone (IS) B. Langley (BL) S. J. Pearman (SJP) G. P. Sutton (GPS) J. Lawman (JL) A. Pearson (APr) J. D. Swann (JDS) M. Lawson (MLw) A. R. Pease (ARPe) A. Swash (AS) M. Leggatt (MLe) K. Pellow (KP) D. Swash (DS) J. D. Leslie (JDL) R.D. Penhallurick (RDP) R. & J. Symons (R&JS) G. D. Lewis (GDL) J.C. Pett (JCP) B. Taggart (BT) S. M. Lister (SML) Mr. Phillips (MrP) G. J. Tamlyn (GJTa) T. Lister (TL) B. M. Phillips (BMP) A. & A. Tate (A&AT) R. C. Loader (RCL) J. Phillips (JPh) J. F. Tetley (JFT) L. Lock (LL) N. R. Phillips (NRP) C. Thomas (CT) A. Lord (AL) R. M. Phillips (RMP) G. H. Thomas (GHT) J. Lord (JLo) T. F. Phillips (TFP) G. Thompson (GT) M. Lord (ML) A. S. Pilbeam (ASP) J. M. Thomas (JMT) P. J. Luxford (PJL) T. K. Plummer (TKP) T. Thompson (TT) B. M. Lye (BML) J. Poynton (JPo) G. Thorburn (GT) A. J. Mackay (AJM) S. Preddy (SP) R. K. Treeby (RKT) A. G. Mackonochie (AGM) P. Priske (PP) L. A. C. Truscott (LACT) P. S. Madge (PSM) T. Pritchard (TP) S. Tucker (ST) S.C. Madge (SCM) L. J. Proctor (LJP) V. R. Tucker (VRT) S. Mahood (SM) P. Rainsden (PR) G. J. Tuckett (GJT) J. Makeham (JMm) J. M. Randall (JMR) M. Tunmore (MT) J. Manners (JM) M. Rashley (MR) M. Tyler (MTy) S. F. Marshall (SFM) N. Renwick (NR) R. E. Wake (REW) L. Marshall-Ball (LM-B) Caradon Report (CRe) P.A. Wakelin (PAW) A. Mason (AM) C. Richards (CR) J. Waldon (JW) C. Mason (CMa) T. Riddle (TR) M. D. Wallace (MDW) R. McCarthey (PMcCa) K. Rigby (KR) P. Walsh (PWa) P. McCartney (PMcC) A. Riley (AR) M. Warren (MWa) P. M. McGenity (PMM) R.D. Riley (RDR) R. S. Warren (RSW) I. M. McKerchar (IMcK) G. P. Rowe (GPR) J. C. Wasse (JCW) P. McKerchar (PMcK) S. G. Rowe (SGR) B. L. Webb (BLW) S. McMahon (SMcM) M. J. Rule (MJR) D. Webb (DW) C. J. Meaney (CJM) D. Russell (DR) L. Webb (LW) B. Mellow (BM) D. & V. Russell (D&VR) P. Weberhard (PWe) J. Middleness (JMi) P.A. Rutter (PAR) Birding South West (BSW) A. Mitchell (AMi) J. F. Ryan (JFP) C. W. Westwood (CWW) C. Moore (CMo) P. St. Pierre (PStP) S. C. Wicks (SCW) R. Moors (RM) K. Safa (KS) C.White (CW) B. C. Morris (BCM) B. Samber (BSr) R. White (RW) R. Nelson (RN) P. Sanpier (PSa) W. J. White (WJW) J. C. Nicholls (JCN) A. Saunders (ASu) M. K. Wightman (MKw) P. Norris (PN) B. Saunders (BS) L. Wilkins (LWi) W. C. Northcott (WCN) G. Sayner (GSa) R. Wilkins (RWi)

149 H. Wilkinson (HW) I. M. Wilson (IMW) P. Wood (PW) E. Willey (EW) J. M. Wilson (JMW) J Worth (JWo) E. H. Williams (EHW) K. A. Wilson (KAW) J. Wright (JWt) L.P. Williams (LPW) P. M. Wilson (PMW) D. M. Yelland (DMY) E. J. Wilson (EJW) K. Wood (KW)

GAZETTEER

This list contains most of the place names mentioned in the Systematic List. Grid references refer to the four-figure square in which the site (or the majority of it) lies. All sites are marked on the 1:25 000 or 1:50 000 Ordnance Survey maps (Landranger series), sheets 190,200,201, 203 and 204.

Acton Castle SW5528 Bissoe SW7741 Boscawen Pond SW8245 Adams Hill SW4025 Black Head, Coverack SW7716 Boscawen Rose SW4323 Alex Tor SX1178 Black Head, St. Austell SX0447 Boscoppa SX0253 Allen Valley SX0476 Black Rock SW6634 Boscundle SX0453 Allet SW7948 Blackacre SW9461 Bosigran SW4236 Altarnun SX2281 Blackcombe Wood SX2874 Bosistow SW3623 Alverton SW4630 Blackcross By-pass SW9060 Bosjewans Valley SW4227 Amble Confluence SW9774 Blackpool Clay Pit SW9854 Boskenna SW4125 Amble Marshes SW9874 Blacktor Downs SX1573 Boskenwyn SW6927 Amy Down SX3666 Blerrick SX3853 Bosloe SW7727 Anderton SX4352 Blindwell SX4252 Boslowick SW7931 Angarrack SW5838 Blisland SX0973 Boslymon SX0761 Antony SX3954 Blue Hills, St Agnes SW7252 Bosorne SW3630 Antony Estate SX4156 Boat (Trenow) Cove SW5329 Bosoughan SW8760 Antony Passage SX4157 Bocaddon SX1758 Bosporthennis SW4336 Arallas SW8544 Bochym SW6820 Bossiney SX0689 Arden-Sawah SW2722 Bodelva Moor Ponds SX0555 Bosullow Common SW4133 Argal Reservoir SW7632 Bodgara SX2686 Boswarthen SW3433 Ashill SW6142 Bodieve SW9973 Boswarva SW4332 Ashton SW6028 Bodigga Cliff SX2754 Boswarva Cam SW4233 Badger's Cross SW4833 Bodinnick SX1352 Boswednack SW4437 Bake SX3258 Bodmin SX0666 Boswens Common SW4032 Baldhu SW7742 Bodmin Moor SX1876 Boswin SW6934 Ball Roundabout SX0073 Bodmin Parkway Stn SX1164 Boswinger SW9941 Barn Pool, Cremyll SX4552 Bodmin Sewage Works SX0566 Botallack SW2632 Barms Nose SX0589 Bodrugan SX0143 Botallack Head SW3634 Barriper SW3863 Bofarnel Downs SX1163 Botherick SX4167 Bartinney Downs SW3929 Bogee Farm SW9069 Botus Fleming SX4061 Basset's Cove SW6344 Bohetherick SX4167 Bowithick SX1882 Bass Point SW7111 Bois House SX1774 Boxheater SW8253 Bastreet SX2476 Bojewyan SW3934 Boyton SX3292 Battery Rocks SW4729 Bolatherick SX1176 Bradford SX1175 Baulk Head SW6522 Bolgigga SX2754 Bradworthy SS3213 Bawden Rocks SW6545 Bolingey Marsh SW7653 Brane SW4028 Beacon Cove SW8466 Bolventor SX1876 Bray's Cot Pool SW7218 Beagles Point SW7616 Bone Valley SW4632 Brea SW6640 Bear Wood SX1164 Bonython SW6920 Breage SW6228 Bear's Downs SW8968 Booby's Bay SW8575 Brea Hill SW9277 Bearah Tor SX2574 Boquio Downs SW6633 Breney Common SX0561 Bedruthan Steps SW8469 Borlase Wood SW8540 Brew, Sennen SW3625 Beeny Cliff SX1092 Bosanketh SW3826 Brickmoor Plant'n SW7951 Berry Down SX3755 Boscadjack SW6631 Brill SW7229 Bethel SX0352 Boscarne SX 0367 Brockabarrow Common SX1574 Bilton Wood SX3169 Boscastle SX0990 Brocton SX0168 Biscovey SX0653 Boscawen Park, Truro SW8343 Browngelly Downs SX1972 Bishops Quay SW7225 Boscathnoe Reservoir SW4531 Bruggan Farm SW7114 Bishops Wood SX0070 Boscawen Park SW8343 Bucklawren SX2655

150 Bude SS2106 Cam-les-Boel SW3523 Com Head SW9480 Bude Bay SSI607 Carnmenellis SW6936 Common Moor SX2469 Bude Breakwater SS2005 Camon Bridge SW7839 Congdon's Shop SX2878 Bude Canal SS2005 Camon Downs SW8040 Constantine SW7329 Bude Marshes SS2005 Carnpalla SW9754 Constantine Bay SW8574 Bugle SX0159 Camsew Pool SW5537 Coobe Farm, Maker SX4251 Bunning's Park SX1872 Cam weather Point SW9580 Cooksland SX0867 Burniere SW9873 Carnworthy Water SX 2291 Coombe SS2111 Burniere Point SW9874 Carnyorth SW3733 Coombe, Feock SW8340 Burnt House SX2166 Carracawn Cross SX3257 Coombe, Fowey SX1151 Burras SW6734 Carrick Luz SW7516 Coombe, Lynher River SX3662 Buryas Bridge SW4429 Carricknath Point SW8432 Coombe, St Austell SW9552 Bury Down SX1959 Carrick Roads SW8335 Coombe, Tehidy SW6242 Bush SS2307 Carrine Common SW7943 Copperhouse Creek SW5637 Bussavean Farm SW8047 Carthew Farm, SW9571 Cornwall College, Camb SW6641 Bussow Reservoir SW5039 Camvannel Downs SW6444 Coronation Park, Wadeb SW9871 Butterstor Plantation SW1577 Carworgie SW9060 Coswarth SW8659 Butter's Tor Marsh SX1678 Casehill Downs SX1278 Cot Valley SW3630 Butterwell, Nanstallon SW0267 Castle Beach SW8131 Cotehele SX4268 Cabilla Woods SX1365 Castle-an-Dinas (East) SW9462 Cotehele Woods SX4268 Cadgwith SW7214 Castle Gate SW4934 Cotton Wood SX0167 Cadsonbury SX3467 Castle Homeck SW4530 Coverack SW7818 SW4029 Cataclews Point SW8776 Cowlands Creek SW8340 Caerhays SW9741 Cat's Cove SW8576 Crafthole SX3654 Caerloggas SW9557 Catchall SW4327 Crankan SW4633 Caerthillian Cove SW6913 Catchfrench SX3059 Crantock SW7860 Calenick Creek SW8343 Cawsand SX4350 Crean SW3824 Callington SX3669 Cawsand Bay SX4450 Cremyll SX4553 Calstock SX4368 Chapel Amble SW9975 Creney Farm SX0761 Camborne SW6540 Chapel Point SX0243 Crinnis SX0551 Camel Estuary SW9374 Chapel Porth SW6949 Croft Pascoe SW7220 Camel Quarry SW9537 Charlestown SX0351 Croft Pascoe Pltn SW7219 Camel River SX0267 Chase water SW7444 Croft Pascoe Pool SW7319 Camelford SX1083 Cheesewring SX2572 Crooklets Beach SS2007 Candra SX1179 China Fleet Club SX4258 Cross Lanes, Cury SW6921 Canonstown SW5235 Chiverton Cross SW7446 Crousa Downs SW7618 Cape Cornwall SW3531 Chiverton Farm SW5429 Crowan SW6434 Carbis Bay SW5239 Churchbridge SX2158 Crowan Reservoir SW6535 Carbis Moor SX0255 Church Cove, Gunwalloe SW6620 Crowan Beacon SW6635 Cardinham SX1268 Church Cove, Lizard SW7112 Crowdy Reservoir SX1483 Cardinham Woods SX1067 Chybucca SW7848 Crowlas SW5133 Carfury SW4434 Chyenhal SW4528 Crows-an-Wra SW3927 Cargenwen/Crowan Res. SW6535 Chyauster SW4734 Crugmeer SW9076 Cargloth SX3354 Chynhalls Point SW7817 Cubert SW7857 Cargreen SX4362 Chy Pond SX1772 Cubert Common SW7859 Carkeel SX4160 Chyuerton SW7951 Cudden Point SW5427 Carland Cross SW8453 Clapper Bridge SX3565 Culdrose SW6626 Carlean Wood SW6042 Clarrick Wood SX4351 Culdrose Airfield SW6725 Carloggas Downs SX0256 Cleave Camp SS2012 Curgurrell Beach SW8837 Carluddon SX0155 Clift SX4055 Cury SW6721 Carluddon Mica Dam SX0054 Clifton SX4264 Cutcrew Mill SX3386 Carlyon Bay SX0551 Cligga Head SW7353 Cutmere Bridge SX3260 Carminow Cross SX0865 Clitters SX3772 Dairyland SW9658 Carminowe Creek SW6524 Clodgy Point SW5041 Danescombe Valley SX4269 Cam Bosavern SW3730 Coads Green SX2976 Dannonchapel SX0382 Cam Brea, Camborne SW6840 Cober Valley, Wendron SW6731 Daubuz Moor, Truro SW8245 Cam Brea, St. Just SW3828 Colan SW8661 Davidstow Airfield SX1485 Cam Galver SW4236 Coldrose Farm, Truro SW8248 Davidstow Woods SX1484 Cam Gloose, Gurnards Head Coldvreath SW9858 Daymer Bay SW9277 SW4338 College Reservoir SW7633 Deadman's Cove SW6143 Cam Gloose, St Just SW3531 Colliford Dam SX1771 Degibna Wood SW6525 Cam Kenidjack SW3832 Colliford Downs SX1871 Delabole SX0683 Camanton SW8764 Colliford Lake Park SX1773 De Lank Water Works SX1376 Came Creek SW7725 Colliford Reservoir SX1772 Demain Farm SW9042 Carnevas SW8672 Colquite SX0570 Dennis Cove SW9274

151 Dennis Head SW7825 Forder, Kingsand SX4250 Gull Rock, Nare Head SW9236 Dennis Hill SW9274 Forder, Saltash SX4158 Gull Rock, Portreath SW6445 Denzill Mill SW8956 Four Lanes SW6838 Gull Rocks, Penhale Pt SW7559 Deveral Common Sw4031 Fowey SX1251 Gulland Rock SW8778 Devoran SW7939 Fowey Estuary SX1254 Gulval SW4831 Deweymeads SX1772 Foxhole SW9654 Gunnislake SX4371 Diggory's Island SW8467 Fraddon SX9158 Gun Point SW9176 Dinas Head SW8476 Freathy SX3952 Gunver Head SW8977 Dinham Woods SW9774 Friendship Wood SW5431 Gunwalloe SW6522 Ding Dong SW4334 Froe SW8633 Gunwalloe Marsh SW6621 Dinham Bridge SX0373 Froe Creek SW8633 Gurnard's Head SW4338 Dinnaboad SX0481 Frogpool SW7640 Gwallon SW5231 Dobwalls SX2164 Gannel Estuary SW7961 Gwavas SW7113 Dodman Point SX0039 Garras SW7023 Gweek SW7026 Dollar Cove SW3425 Garrow Tor SX1478 Gweek Woods SW7025 Doublebois SX1965 Garvinack Farm SW7748 Gwendreath SW7316 Downas Valley SW7617 Gear Common SW4436 Gwennap Head SW3621 Downderry SX3253 Gear Sands SW7555 Gwenter SW7417 Doyden Point SW9680 Geevor Mine SW3734 Gwenver SW3627 Dozmary Pool SX1974 Geonamarth Farm SW9855 Gwinear SW5937 Draynes SX2169 Germoe SW5929 Gwithian SW5841 Draynes Bridge SX2268 Gerrans SW8735 Gwithian Towans SW5841 Draynes Common SX2170 Gerrans Bay SW9037 Gwynver SW3627 Draynes/Golitha Wood SW2268 Gerrans Point SX0348 Gyllyngvase Beach SW8031 Drift SW4328 Gillan SW7824 Halamanning SW5530 Drift Reservoir SW4329 Gillan Creek SW7725 Halfway House, St Jidgey SW9469 Droskyn Point SW7554 Gillan Harbour SW7825 Halloon SW9159 Duckpool SS2011 Gillhill Wood SX2257 Hallworthy SX1887 Duloe SX2358 Gillhouse SX1873 Hals Grave SW9571 Dunmere SX0467 Glebe Cliff SX0488 Halsetown SW5038 Dunmere Wood SX0468 Glendurgan SW7727 Halton Quay SX4165 Dunveth Farm, St Breock SW9872 Glynn Valley Woods SW7727 Halvana Plantation SX2077 Duporth SX0351 Godolphin Cross SW6131 Halwyn SW9374 Durgan SW7727 Godolphin Wood SW6032 Halzephron Cove SW6521 East Colliford SX1870 Godrevy Island SW5743 Hannafore SX2552 East Coombe SX7509 Godrevy Point SW5743 Hannafore Point SX2552 East Looe SX2553 Godrevy Towans SW5842 Hannibal's Cam SW4336 East Looe River SX2554 Golant SX1254 Harbour Cove, Padstow SW9177 East Moor SX2177 Goldsithney SW5430 Harewood SX4469 East Taphouse SX1863 Golitha/Draynes Wood SX2268 Harlyn SW8775 Eastern Green Beach SW4830 Golitha Falls SX2268 Harlyn Bay SW8775 Edmonton SW9672 Goonbell SW6951 Harlyn Pools SW8775 Efflins SW8570 Goonhavern SW7853 Harpur's Downs SX1179 Efford SS2004 Goonhilly Downs SW7219 Harrowbarrow SX4070 Egloshayle SX0072 Goon Husband SW6625 Harrowbridge SX2074 Emblance Downs SX1277 Goonzion Downs SX1767 Hatt SX3961 Empacombe SX4452 Gorran Haven SX0141 Hawker's Cove SW9177 Enniscaven SW9659 Goss Moor SW9459 Hawk's Tor, Temple SX1475 Ennisworgey SW9361 Grampound SW9348 Hawkstor Clay Pit SX1474 Epphaven Cove SW9679 Great Bosullow SW4133 Haye SX4166 Escalls SW3626 Great Grogley Downs SX0167 Hayle SW5637 Fairy Cross SX1262 Great Hogus SW5130 Hayle Bay, Camel Est. SW9379 Falmouth SW8032 Great Keiro Moor SW9675 Hayle Estuary SW5537 Falmouth Bay SW8130 Great Wood, St Winnow SX1256 Hayle Kimbro Pool SW6916 Falmouth Docks SW8132 Greeb Point, Veryan Bay SW9740 Hayle Mill Pond SW5536 Fenteroon Bridge SX1082 Greeb Point, Portscatho SW8733 Hayle River SW5436 Feock SW8238 Greenaway SW9278 Hayle Towans SW5638 Ferry Farm, Calstock SX4569 Greensplat SW9955 Heamoor SW4631 Fiddlers Green SW8254 Greystone Wood SX3679 Helford SW7526 Fishing Cove SW5942 Gribbin Head SX0949 H el ford Passage SW7626 Fistral Bay SW7961 Grochall SW6914 Helford River SW7726 Flexbury SS2107 Grogley Halt SX0168 Heligan SW9946 Flushing SW7825 Grumbla SW4029 SX0770 Flushing Beach SW8033 Guineaport SW9971 Hellandbridge SX0671 Foage SW4637 Gull Rock, Boscastle SX1193 Hellesveor SW5040

152 Helligan Wood SX0872 Kensey Valley SX3285 Lelant Saltings SW5436 Hell's Mouth SW6042 Kenwyn SW8145 Lellizzick SW9077 Helman Tor SX0661 Kerley Downs SW7643 Lerryn SX1357 Helston SW6627 Kerney Bridge SX3270 Leswidden Farm SW3930 Helston Amenity Area SW6526 Kernick Wood SX0871 Letcha Farm SW3630 Helston Boating Lake SW6527 Keveral Wood SX2955 Levant SW3734 Helston Sewage Works SW6526 Kilkhampton SS2511 Lewannick SX2780 Helstone SX0881 Killigerran Head SW8732 Lezant SX3378 Hemmick Beach SW9940 Killivose Wood SW3864 Ligger Point SW7558 Hendersick Farm SX2352 Kilmarth SX0952 SX2564 Hendra, Manhay SW6931 Kilmar Tor SX2574 Little Busullow SW4234 Hendra, Nanquidno SW3629 Kilminorth Woods SX2354 Little Comfort SX3580 Henna Cliff SS1915 Kings Wood SX0048 Little Gribbib SX0950 Hensbarrow Downs SW9957 Kingsand SX4350 Little London SW5230 Hep we 11 SX3064 Kingsmill Creek SX4260 Little Petherick SW9172 Herodsfoot SX2160 Kingsmill Lake SX4261 Little Petherick Creek SW9273 Hessenford, Looe SX3057 Kit Hill SX3771 Lizard Downs SW6913 Hewas Water SW9649 Kuggar SW7216 Lizard Point SW6911 Highburrow SW6325 Kynance Cliff SW6713 Lizard Village SW7012 High Cliff SX1294 Kynance Cove, Godrevy SW5843 Lobb Shop SX0249 Higher Bostraze SW3931 Kynance Cove, Lizard SW6813 Loe Bar SW6424 Higher Crill Farm SW7783 Kynance Downs SW6814 Loe Beach SW8238 Higher Kenneggy SW5628 Kynance Farm SW6714 Loe Pool SW6424 Higher Kerrowe SW4536 Labour-in-Vain SW6744 Loe Valley SW6526 Higher Lampetho Farm SX1052 Ladock SW8951 SW5739 Higher Tregiffian SW3627 Ladock Wood SW8851 London Apprentice SX0050 Highgate SW9259 Lady Downs, Penwith SW4736 Long Island SX0790 HMS Raleigh SX4254 Lakeview Country Park SX0163 Long Rock SW4931 Hoe Point SW5727 Lamanva SW7631 Long Rock Beach SW4931 Holestrow SW6912 Lamb Creek SW8442 Long Rock Pool SW5031 Holman's Moors SW4839 Lamelgate SX2170 Longdowns SW7434 Holmbush SX0352 Lamledra SX0141 Longstone SX0673 Holywell Bay SW7659 Lamorna SW4424 Looe SX2553 Hooper's Bridge SX0365 Lamorna Cove SW4524 Looe Bay SX2652 Hore Stone SX2350 Lanarth SW7621 Looe Estuary SX2553 Housel Bay SW7011 Landrake SX3860 Looe Island SX2551 Hudder Down SW6042 Land's End SW3425 Looe Mill Pool SX2553 Hustyn Downs SX0067 Landrake SX3760 SX1059 Hustyn Wood SX0069 Landulph SX4361 Loveny SX1868 Idless SW8247 Landulph Marsh SX4261 Loveney Reserve SX1873 Illogan SW6744 Laneast SX2283 Lower Boscaswell SW3734 Illogan Wood SW6643 Laneast Downs SX2384 Lower Brynn SW9862 Indian Queens SW9158 Lanescot SX0855 Lower Clubworthy SX2792 Industry SX2377 Langdon SX2092 T'ment Wk SX1283 Innis Downs SX0262 Langore SX2986 Lower Predannack Down SW6814 Innis Fish Farm SX0357 Lanhainsworth SW9264 Lower Tamar Lake SS2911 Inny Vale SX1586 Lanhoose SW8637 Lower Tregantle Ponds SX3953 Jamaica Inn SX1876 Lanhydrock SX0863 Lowerton SW6529 Jericho Farm SW3931 Lanivet SX0364 Lowland Point SW8020 Jericho Valley SW6951 Lanlivery SX0758 Luckett Woods SX3972 Jolly's Bottom SW7544 Lanner SW7139 Ludgvan SW5033 Jubilee Pool, Penzance SW4729 Lanreath SX1856 Lundy Bay SW9579 Jupiter Point SX4156 Lansallos SX1751 Lundynant Caravan Park SW9479 Kea Wood SW8442 Lanteglose SX0882 Lusty Glaze SW8262 Kehelland SW6241 Lantundle SX2158 Luxulyan SX0558 Kelly Bray SX3671 Lanyon Farm, Madron SW4234 Luxulyan Quarry SX0559 Kelsey Head SW7660 Lanyon Quoit SW4233 Luxulyan Valley SX0557 Kelynack SW3730 Larrick XS3078 Lwrkemyll SW4625 Kemyll SW4625 Larrigan Rocks SW4629 Lye Rock SX0689 Kenidjack SW3632 Latchbrook SX4059 Lynher Estuary SX3955 Kenidjack Castle SW3532 Latchley SX4073 Madderley Moor SX1059 Kennack Sands SW7316 Launcells SS2606 Mabe SW7634 Kennal Vale SW7437 Launceston SX3384 Madron SW4531 Kennards House SX2883 Leedstown SW 6034 Maenease Point SX0141 Kenneggy Downs SW5629 Lelant SW5437 Maenporth SW7829

153 Maen Valley, Falmouth SW8032 Mount Charles SX0252 Notter Bridge SX3860 Maer Lake SS2007 Mount Edgcumbe CP SX4552 Okeltor SX4468 Maker Heights SX4351 Mount Hawke SW7147 Old Dane SW8162 Malpas SW8442 Mountjoy SW8760 Old Kea Church SW8441 Manaccan SW7625 Mount Pleasant SX0062 Old Town Cove SW9373 Manare Point SW9338 Mount's Bay SW4930 Otterham SX1690 Marazanvose SW8050 Mounts Pond, Penhale SW5678 Otterham Down SX1590 Marazion Beach SW5031 Mousehole SW4726 Outer Retallick SW9266 Marazion Marsh SW5031 Mullion SW6718 Padstow SW9274 Marble Cliffs SW8976 Mullion Cliffs SW6617 Par SX0753 Marshgate SX1591 Mullion Cove SW6617 Par Bay SX0852 Maudlin, Liskeard SX2664 Mullion Golf Course SW6620 Par Beach SX0853 Mawgan SW7024 Mullion Island SW6617 Par Beach Pool SX0853 Mawgan Creek SW7125 Murrayton SX2854 Par Docks SX0752 Mawgan Porth SW8467 Music Water SW9068 Par Moor SX0552 SW7827 Mutton's Downs SX1969 Par Pools SX0854 Mawnan Smith SW7728 Mylor Bridge SW8036 Par River SX0753 Mayan Green SW3626 Mylor Churchtown SW8235 Park Clay Pit SX1970 Mayon Cliff SW3425 Mylor Creek SW8035 Park Head SW8470 Mayon Pit, Sennen SW3625 Nancegollan SW6332 Park Hoskyn SW7549 Meachard SX0991 Nancledra SW4935 Paul SW4627 Melinsey Neal SW9039 Nancothan SW4429 Pawton SW9570 Menabilly SX1050 Nanjizal SW3523 Paynter's Cross SX3964 Men-An-Tol SW4234 Nanjulian Farm SW3629 Pednvadan SW8835 Menabilly SX1051 Nanquidno SW3629 Pedn Vounder Beach SW2239 Menabilly Barton SX0951 Nansavallan Wood SW8143 Pelynt SX2054 Menadarva SW6141 Nansloe SW6526 Pemboa SW6826 Menadue Marsh SX0358 Nansmellyn Marsh SW7654 Penair SW8545 Menheniot SX2962 Nanstallon SX0366 Penally SX0991 Mennavean Quay SW7724 Nanswhyden SW8762 Penare SX0040 Merope Rocks SW8676 Nare Head SW9137 Penarrow Point SW8234 Merry Maidens SW4324 Nare Point SW8025 Penberth SW3923 Merrymeet SX2766 Narkurs SX3256 Pencalenick SW8545 Merry Meeting SX0874 Navax Point SW5943 Pencarrow, Bodmin SX0471 Messack Point SW8435 Neal Point SX4361 Pencarrow Head SX1550 Meudon SW7828 Nether Bridge SX3486 Pendarves SW6437 Mevagissey SX0144 New Mill SW4534 Pendavey SX0071 Mevagissey Bay SX0245 Newbridge, Callington SX3467 Pen Enys Point SW4841 SX1763 Newbridge, Penzance SW4231 Pendarces Woods SW6438 Military Road, Penlee SX4349 New Downs, St Just SW3631 Pendeen SW3834 Milladon Pond SX3315 Newland SW9181 Pendeen Watch SW3735 Mill Bay, Nanjizal SW3523 Newlyn SW4628 Pendennis Point/Castle SW8231 Millbrook SX4252 Newlyn Beach SW4629 Pendoggett SX0279 Millbrook Lake SX4352 Newlyn Coombe SW4529 Pendower Beach SW8938 Millbrook Pond SX4252 SW8354 Pengirt SW9480 Millendreath SX2653 Newlyn East SW8256 Penhale, Mullion SW6918 Millpool SW5730 Newlyn Harbour SW4628 Penhale, St John SX4153 Millpool, Cardinham SX1170 Newlyn River SW4628 Penhale Camp SW7658 Milltown SX1057 New Polzeath SW9379 Penhale Creek SX4254 Milltown, St Neot SX1867 New Pool, Polmorla SW9871 SW7756 Minions SX2671 Newquay SW8161 Penhallow SW7651 Minnows Islands SW8572 Newquay Bay SW8162 Penhalt SSI 900 Mirrose Well SW6344 Newquay Golf Course SW8062 Penhellick Farm SW8245 Mitchell SW8654 Newton Moor SW6738 Penhole Farm SX1861 Mithian SW7470 Newtown SW5728 Penjerrick SW7730 Moditonham Quay SX4161 Nine Maidens (near Madron) SW4335 Penlee Battery SX4349 Molenick SX3361 Nine Maidens, St Columb SW9367 Penlee Point, Mousehole SW4726 Moresk SW8245 Ninestones SX2174 Penlee Point, Rame Hd. SX4448 SW4035 Ninestones Bridge SX2373 Penlee Quarry, Newlyn SW4627 Morval SX2556 Ninestones Farm SX2174 Penlee Reserve SX4349 Morwenstow SS2115 No Mans Land, Looe SX2756 Penlee Woods SX4449 Mory Island SW8263 North Bowda SX2477 Penmarth SW7035 Mother Ivey's Bay SW8676 North Cliffs SW6243 Penmillard, Rame SX4249 Mount, Cubert SW7756 North Country SW6943 Pen Olver, Lizard SW7111 Mount Araret SX4064 Northcott Mouth SS2008 Penpol Creek, Devoran SW8138

154 Penpoll Creek, Fowey SX1354 Polhawn Cove SX4149 SX3553 Penponds SW6439 Polhawn Fort SX4249 Poughill SS2208 Penrice SX0249 Polkerris SX0952 Poundstock SX2099 Penrose, Loe Pool SW6425 Polly Joke SW7760 Praa Sands SW5828 Penryn SW7834 Polmarkyn SX3335 Predannack SW6816 Penryn River SW7934 Polmassick SW9745 Predannack Airfield SW6816 Pensilva SX2969 Polmear SX0853 Predannack Downs SW6915 Penstraze Moor SW7545 Polmorla SW9871 Predannack Head SW6616 Pentargon SX1091 Polperro SX2050 Predannack Wollas SW6616 Pentewan SX0147 Polquick SW8246 Prideaux Place SW9175 Pentewan Beach SX0247 Polridmouth Cove SX1050 Prideaux Wood SX0655 Pentire, Newquay SW7961 Polruan SX1250 Priory Park Bodmin SX0766 Pentire Farm SW9380 Polscoe SX1160 Probus SW8947 Pentire Point, Padstow Bay SW9280 Poison SX3584 Prussia Cove SW5527 Pentire Point East, Newquay SW7861 Polsue Farm SW9943 Pulla Cross SW7439 Pentire Point West, Newquay SW7761 Poltesco SW7215 Queener Point SX4148 Pentireglaze SW9380 Polurrian Cove SW6618 Quintrell Downs SW8559 Pentreath Beach SW6912 Polwheveral Creek SW7328 Quoit Farm SW9261 Penventon SW6941 Polzeath SW9378 Racecourse Downs SX0969 Penweathers SW7944 Polzeath Bay SW9739 RAF Portreath SW6746 Penwithick SX0256 Ponsanooth SW7537 RAF St. Mawgan SW8664 SW2722 Penzance SW4730 Pont SX1452 Raftra Farm SW6445 Penzance Heliport SW4831 Ponts Mill SX0756 Ralph's Cupboard Penzance Railway Stn. SW4730 Porcupine SX0755 Rame Barton SX4249 Perbargus Point SW9541 Popesmill SX2763 Rame Church SX4249 Percuil River SW8534 Pordenack Point SW3424 Rame Head SX4148 Perran-an-Worthal SW7778 Porkellis SW6933 Rame, Rame Head SX4249 Perran Bay SW7555 Porkellis Moor SW6832 Rame, Stithians SW7233 Perran Downs SW5530 Porteath SW9679 Redgate SX2268 Perran Sands SW5429 Portgaverne SX0080 Redhill Downs SX1671 Perranporth SW7554 Porthallow SW7923 Redmoor SX0762 Perranporth Airfield SW7352 Porth-cadjack Cove SW6444 Red Post SS2604 SW6942 Perranporth Dunes SW7554 Porthcothan SW8571 Perranuthnoe SW5329 Porthcurnick Beach SW8735 Rejerrah SW7955 Perranuthnoe Cliffs SW5428 Porthcurno SW3822 Releath SW6633 Perranwell SW7752 Porthguarnon SW4123 Relubbus SW5631 Perranarworthal SW7738 Porthgwarra SW3621 Rescassa SX0842 Petherwin SX2889 Porthgwidden SW8237 Reskadinnick SW6341 Phillack SW5638 Porthilly SW9375 Reskajeage Downs SW6343 Philleigh SW8739 Porth Joke SW7760 Respryn SX0963 Picklecombe SX4550 Porthkerris SW8022 Restormel Castle SX1061 Piece SW6739 Porth Kidney Beach SW5438 Restronguet Creek SW8038 Pier Cellars SX4449 Porthleven SW6225 Resugga SW9452 Pigshill SX4351 Porthleven Sands SW6324 Retallack SW9366 Pillaton SX 3663 Porthluney Cove SW9741 Rialton Barton SW8461 Pill Creek SW8339 Porth Mear, Park Head SW8471 Rilla Mill SX2973 Pilsamoor SX2785 Porthmellin Head SW8632 Rinsey Head SW5826 Pinkson Creek SW9473 Porthmeor Beach SW5140 River Allen SX0476 Pinnockshill SX1874 Porthmeor, Zennor SW4337 SW8440 SW8046 Pipers Pool SX2684 Porthminster Point SW5239 River Kenwyn Pityme SW9576 Porthmissen SW8976 River Neet SS2208 Place Manor, SW8532 Porth Nanven SW3530 Roche SW9860 Place Wood SW8633 Porth, Newquay SW8362 Rock SW9375 Plaidy SX2653 Portholland SW9541 Rocksea Farm SX0274 Plain-an-Gwarry SW6952 Porthoustock SW8021 Rocky Valley SX0789 Plusha SX2580 Porthpean SX0350 Ropehaven SX0349 Polbathic SX3456 Porth Reservoir SW8662 Rosecliston SW8159 Polbathic Creek SX3557 Porthtowan SW6948 Roscroggan SW6442 Polbrock SX0169 Port Isaac SW9980 Rosecraddock SX2667 Polcrebo Downs SW6433 Portloe SW9339 Rosedale SX3357 SW4530 Poldhu SW6620 Portmellon SX0143 Rosehill PoldhuCove SW6619 Portnadler Bay SX2451 Roseland Peninsula SW8637 Poldhu Marsh SW6720 Portquin SW9780 Rosemelling Pool SX0457 SW4136 Polgigga SW3723 Portreath SW6545 Rosemergy SW7927 Polgreen Farm/Lake SW8666 Portscatho SW8735 Rosemullion Head

155 Rosenannon SW9566 South Boderwennack SW6830 St Just in Roseland SW8535 Rosenannon Downs SW9567 Southdown SX4352 St Keverne SW7821 Roseny Valley Wood SX0559 Southground Point SX1050 St Kew SX0276 Rose Valley SW3935 Southithdown SX4252 St Kew Highway SX0375 Rosewarne SW6441 South Petherwin SX3081 St Keyne SX2361 Rosewastis SW9161 Spit Beach SX0752 St Levan SW3722 Roseworthy SW6139 Spit Point SX0752 St Loy SW4223 Roskear Croft SW6541 St Agnes SW7250 St Mabyn SX0373 Rosken Farm SW8972 St Agnes Head SW6951 St Martin SX2455 Roskestal SW3722 St Allen SW8250 St Mawes SW8433 Rospannel SW3926 St Andrew's Pool SX0754 St Mawgan SW8765 Rospeath SW5132 St. Anthony, Helford SW7825 St Mellion SX3865 Rosudgeon SW5529 St Anthony, St. Mawes SW8532 St Merryn SW8873 Rough Tor SX1481 St Anthony Head SW8431 St Merryn Airfield SW8871 Rough Tor Farm SX1382 St Austell SX0252 St Michael's Mount SW5129 Roughtor Moors SX1480 St Austell Bay SX0651 St. Michael Penkevil SW8542 Roundwood Quay SW8339 St Austell Golf Course SX0050 St Minver SW9677 Ruan High Lanes SW9039 St Austell Sew. Works SX0150 St Nectan's Glen SX0888 Ruan Lanihorne SW8841 St. Bellarmin's Tor SX1370 St Neot SX1867 Ruan Major SW7016 SX0654 St Newlyn East SW8256 Ruan Minor SW7215 St Blazey Lakes SX0555 St Stephen, Foxhole SW9453 Rumford SW8970 St Breock SW9771 St Stephens, Launceston SX3285 Rumps Point SW9381 St Breock Downs SW9668 St Winnow SX1157 Runnel Stone Buoy SW3620 St Breward SX0976 Stable Hobba SW4529 Rushyford Gate SX2267 St Buryan SW4025 Stanbury Mouth SS1913 Ryan's Field SW5436 St Cadoc Farm, Harlyn SW8875 Stannon Clay Pit SX1280 Sally's Bottom SW6746 St Cleer SX2468 Stem Pioint SW8467 Saltash SX4258 St Cleer Downs SX2467 Stenalees SX0157 Salter Mill SX4363 St Clement SW8543 Stepper Point SW9178 Saltmill Creek SX4259 St Clement Woods SW8248 Sticker SW9750 Samphire Island SW6344 St Clements Isle SW4726 Stithians SW7336 Sancreed SW4129 St Clether SX2083 Stithians Reservoir SW7136 Sandplace SX2456 SW9163 Stoke Climsland SX3674 Sandy Mouth SS2009 St Columb Minor SW8462 Stonaford SX2577 Scarce Water Bridge SW8247 St Columb Porth SW8362 Stone SW3930 Sconner Creek SX3656 St Columb Road SW9159 Stratton SS2206 Scorrier SW7244 St Columb Sewage Works SW9063 Summercourt SW8856 Scribble Downs SX1477 St Dennis SW9557 Summerleaze Beach SS2006 Sea Mills SW9273 St Dominick SX4067 Sunny Corner SW3626 Seaton SX3054 St Dominick Church SX3967 Swanpool SW8031 Seaton Valley SX3055 St Elvin SW6427 Swanpool Beach SW8031 Sennen SW3626 St Enodoc SW9377 Swanvale SW7931 Sennen Cove SW3526 St Enodoc Golf Course SW9376 SX2251 Sharp Tor SX2673 St Erme SW8449 Talland Bay SX2251 Sharrow Point SX3952 St Erth SW5535 Tamar Estuary SX4359 Sheffield, Mousehole SW4526 St Erth Pools SW5435 Tamar Lakes SS2811 Shell Woods SX0872 St Erth Praze SW5735 Tater-du SW4423 Shepherds SX8154 St Eval SW8868 Tehidy Country Park SW6443 Sheviock SX3655 St Eval Airfield SW8768 Temple SX1473 Sheviock Wood SX3656 St Ewe SW9746 Temple New Bridge SX1574 Shillingham Creek SX4057 St Germans SX3657 Temple Tor Pools SX1373 Short Island SX0790 St Gluvias, Penryn SW7834 Terras SW9353 Shortlanesend SW8047 St Hilary SW5531 Terras Bridge SX2455 Siblyback Farm SX2372 StIssey SW9271 Thanckes Lake SX4355 Siblyback Moor SX2373 St Ive SX3067 The Brisons SW3431 Siblyback Reservoir SX2371 St Ives SW5140 The Chick SW7661 Silverwell SW7548 St Ives Bay SW5439 The Goose SW7861 Sithney SW6328 St Ives Island/Head SW5241 The Kelsey's SW7769 Skewjack SW3624 St Jidgey SW9469 The Lizard SW7020 Skinham Pond SX4260 St John SX4153 The Mouls SW9381 Skinham Point SX4360 St John Ford SX4153 The Sisters SX0689 Sladesbridge SX0171 St John's Lake SX4254 Three Holes Cross SX0173 Slaughterbridge SX1085 St Just SW3631 Threemilestone SW7844 Smallacombe Pltn SX2275 St Just Airfield SW3728 Tideford SX3459 Soap Cove SW6714 St Just Pool SW8435 SX0588

156 SW8573 Toad Hole SW9659 Tregoodwell SX1183 Trethias Island Tolcarne Arms SW5236 Tregoss SW9660 Trethill SX3754 Tolcarne Beach, Newquay SW8162 Tregoss Moor SW9760 Trethurgy SX0355 Tolgus SW6944 Tregotha Farm SW5936 Trevalga SX0890 Tollgate, Wadebridge SW9772 Tregowris SW7722 Trevail SW4740 Toll Point SW7826 Tregrehan SX0553 Trevalgan SW4940 Tolpetherwin SX2782 Tregrehan Mills SX0453 Trevanger SW9577 Tolvaddon SW6040 Tregunna SW9673 Trevanson SW9772 Torfrey SX1154 Trehemborne SW8773 Trevanson Farm SW9773 Torpoint SX4354 Trekelvesteps SX2269 Trevanson Woods SW9773 Towan Beach SW8732 Trekennick Tor SX2181 Trevarno SW6430 Towan Head SW7962 Trekenning SW9062 Trevarrian SW8566 Towednack SW4838 Trelay Farm SX2054 Trevarren SW9060 Townshend SW5932 Treleaver Cliff SW7616 Trevassack SW7122 Trago Mills SX1864 Treleaver Farm SW7716 Trevaunance Point SW7252 Trannock Downs SW6630 Trelew SW8135 Trevaylor Woods SW4632 Trannack Farm SW5633 Trelights SW9979 Treveal SW4740 Treago Farm SW7760 Trelion SW9352 Trevean Cove SW5428 Trebah SX7627 Treliske Hospital, Truro SW7945 Trevean Farm SW5428 Trebarber SW8662 Trelissick SW8339 Trevear SW4740 Trebartha Woodlands SX2577 Treliver SW9865 Treve Common SW3425 Trebarwith Strand SX0596 Treloquithack SW6929 Treveddo SW8061 Trebehor SW3724 Trelow Downs SW9268 Trevedra Farm SW3727 Trebellan SW7856 Trelowarren SW7124 Trevegean Farm SW3629 Trebelsue SW8463 Tremail SX 1686 Trevelga SX0890 Trebetherick SW9278 Tremar SX2567 Trevelgue SW8463 Trebetherick Point SW9277 Trematon SX4057 Trevella Pond SW8059 Trebownbridge SX2959 Tremayne Quay SW7225 Trevellas SW7352 Trebudannon SW8961 Trembath SW4528 Trevellas Airfield SW7451 Treburgey SX2263 Tremethick Cross SW4430 Trevelver Farm SW9574 Treburley SX3477 Trenadlyn SX0955 Trevenen SW6829 Treburrick SW8670 Trenance Lake SW8160 Treveor Farm SW9841 Tredavoe SW4528 Trenance Point SW8468 Treverbyn SX2067 Tredinney Common SW3298 Trenant, New Polzeath SW9479 Treverbyn Bridge SW8849 Tredinnick SX3659 Trenant, St Neot SX2168 Treverva SW7531 Tredrossel SX3555 Trenant Park SX2455 Treverven SW4023 Treen, Boswednack SW4337 Trenant Point SX2553 Trevescan SW3524 Treen, Porthcurno SW3922 Trenant Wood SX2454 Trevia SX0983 Treesmill SX0855 Trenarren SX0348 Trevilley, Sennen SW3524 Trefusis Point SW8133 Trendrine SW4739 Trevilvas Wood SW9247 Tregadillet SX2983 Trengwainton SW4431 Trevisquite Manor SX0474 Tregaller SX3182 Trenouth SW9070 Trevissome SW7547 Tregamere SW9264 Trenow (Boat) Cove SW5329 Trevithick SW8862 Tregaminion, Porthallow SW7922 Trenowin Downs SW4835 Trevol SX4155 Tregaminion, Restormel SX0951 Treraven Woods SW0070 Trevone SW8975 Tregantle SX3852 Trereife SW4529 Trevone Bay SW8876 Tregantle Fort SX3853 Trerethern Farm SW9173 Trevorian Pool SW3726 Tregare Barton Wood SW8636 Trerew Wood SW8158 Trevose Farm SW8675 Tregassick SW8634 Trerulefoot SX3358 Trevose Head SW8576 Tregaswith SW8962 Tresamble SW7539 Trewardale SX1071 Tregathenan Reservoir SW6530 Tresarett SX0973 Trewassick SW8561 Tregavarrah SW4429 Tresemple Pool SW8544 Treweatha SX2267 Tregavarras SX0841 Tresillian SW8646 Treween SW9777 Tregembo SW5731 Tresillian River SW8444 Trewellard SW3733 SX0357 Trewennack SW6728 1 Tregenna SW9440 Treskilling Tregeseal SW3732 Treskilling Clay Pit SX0357 Trewey Common SW4636 Tregiller SW9249 Treskilling Downs SX0357 Trewey Downs SW4537 Treginegar SX2263 Treskinnick Cross SX2198 Trewhiddle SX0051 Tregirls SW9176 Treslea Downs SX1368 Trewidden SW4429 | Tregonce SW9273 Tresmeer SX2327 Trewint SX2180 Tregonebris SW4128 Tresvannack SW4528 Trewithen SW9147 Tregonetha SW9563 Treswigga SX1274 Trewithian SW8837 Tregonetha Downs SW9562 Trethern SW8536 Trewonnard SX1989 Tregonhawke SX 4051 Trethewell SW8535 Treworga SW8940 ' Tregony SW9244 Trethewey SW3823 Trewornan Bridge SW9874

157 Treworthal Tor SW8839 Ventonleague SW5738 Wherry Down SW4729 Trewortha Tor SX2475 Veryan SW9139 Wherry Town SW4729 Treyarnon SW8673 Veryan Bay SW9638 Whitebarrow Downs SX1970 Treyarnon Bay SW8574 Victoria SW9861 White Cross, Indian Queens SW8959 Trezibbett Farm SX2075 Wacker Quay SX3855 Whitecross, Ludgvan SW5234 Triffle SX3354 Wadebridge SW9872 Whitecross, Wadebridge SW9672 Trispen SW8450 Wadebridge Sew. Wks SW9817 Whitesand Bay, Sennen SW3527 Trobus Farm SW8850 Wainhouse Corner SX1895 Whitsand Bay SX3851 Troon SW6638 Walmsley Sanctuary SW9974 Wicca SW4739 Truro SW8245 Warbstow SX2090 Widegates SX2857 Truro River SW8342 Washaway SX0369 Widemouth Bay SS2002 Truthwall SW5272 Watch Croft SW4235 Wiggle SX4250 Trye Farm SW4535 Watergate, Looe SX2354 Wilcove SX4356 Trythall SW4433 Watergate Bay SW8364 Wilsey Down Plant'n SX1987 Tuckingmill SX0977 Watts Nature Reserve SW8047 Wimalford Farm SX2173 Turnaware Point SW8338 Wearde Quay SX4257 Windmill Farm SW6915 Twelveheads SW7642 Week St. Mary SX2396 Winnard's Perch SW9266 Two Bridges, St Columb SW9163 Weir Point SW8136 Witheybrook Marsh SX2572 Tywardreath Marsh SX0854 Wendron SW6731 Withiel SW9965 United Downs SW7441 Werrington SX3287 Wolf Rock SW2611 Upper Fowey Valley SX2173 West Looe SX2553 Wolsdon SX4054 Upper Tamar Lake SS2812 West Looe River SX2454 Woodford SS2213 Upton Cross SX2872 West Pentire, Newquay SW7760 Woon Gumpus Common SW3933 Upton Towans SW5739 West Penwith Moors SW3929 Yeale Farm, Fowey SX1352 Valency Valley SX1291 West Taphouse SX1563 Zacry's Island SW8363 Valley Truckle SX0982 Westcott SW3768 Zawn Kellys SW3522 Varfell SW5032 Westerlake Farm SX2171 Zelah SW8151 Vault Bay/Beach SX0140 Western Cove SW6445 Zennor SW4538 Vellandreath SW3626 Wheal Eliza SX0353 Zone Point SX2760 Ventongimps SW7851 Wheal Kitty SW7251

RINGING REPORT - 2004

During the year a total of 7,843 birds was ringed. This was almost double the total of the previous year and the largest annual total for the County. Species ringed for the first time, since the inception of these reports in 1979, were Wryneck and Blyth's Pipit; also, Bluethroat, Woodchat Shrike and Common Rosefinch were ringed for the second occasion. Other highlights include the third Turtle Dove and Red-backed Shrike; fourth Ruff & Wood Warbler (2); fifth Wood Sandpiper. Other scarce species include two Melodious Warblers, four Pallas's Warbler and four Yellow-browed Warblers. Over one hundred nestling Shags were ringed in West Penwith, generating a good number of recoveries. An excellent total of forty-six Green Sandpipers were caught, doubling the previous county total. Of the rare breeding species in the County, another twenty nestling Peregrines were ringed along with another successful brood of four Red-billed Choughs.

TABLE 1: CONTRIBUTORS

Contributor Full grown Pulli Site

G. J. Conway 1,509 14 Mid and West Cornwall K. R. Grant (Barn Owl Trust) 4 13 Various sites K. Herber & D Riley 477 - Rospannel T. Holmes - 65 Bodmin area D. Jackson - 20 Various sites F.H.C. Kendall 5 27 Bude Bob Medland 63 - Dodman Point K. A. Wilson & M. Warren 5,184 451 Nanjizal/Land's End RSPB - 4 Lizard

158 TABLE 2: SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES RINGED Ringing Totals 2004 1979-2004

Full Grown Pulli Total Full grown Pulli Total Northern Fulmar - - - 4 - 4 Manx Shearwater - - - 28 - 28 European Storm Petrel 480 - 480 5,154 - 5,154 Northern Gannet - - - 2 - 2 Shag - 135 135 - 221 221 Cattle Egret - - - 1 - 1 Mute Swan - - - 118 - 118 Common Shelduck - - - 8 - 8 Common Teal 1 - 1 32 - 32 Mallard - - - 2 - 2 Garganey - - - 2 - 2 Northern Shoveler - - - 2 - 2 Common Scoter - - - 1 - 1 Hen Harrier - - - - 4 4 Eurasian Sparrowhawk 7 - 7 63 9 72 Common Buzzard - - - 5 20 25 Common Kestrel 1 - 1 7 33 40 Eurasian Hobby - - - 1 - 1 Peregrine Falcon - 20 20 - 69 69 Water Rail - - - 37 - 37 Spotted Crake - - - 5 - 5 Moorhen 6 - 6 44 - 44 Coot - - - 1 - 1 Oystercatcher - - - 657 7 664 Little Plover - - 1 1 Great Ringed Plover - - - 353 - 353 Dotterel - - - 4 - 4 European Golden Plover - - - 5 - 5 Northern Lapwing _ - - 26 3 29 Red Knot _ _ - 6 - 6 Sanderling - - - 23 - 23 Little Stint 1 - 1 7 - 7 Pectoral Sandpiper - - - 2 - 2 Curlew Sandpiper 1 - 1 10 - 10 Dunlin 13 - 13 1,573 - 1,573 Ruff 1 - 1 4 - 4 Jack Snipe 3 - 3 17 - 17 Common Snipe 7 - 7 47 - 47 Woodcock - - - 6 - 6 Black-tailed Godwit 1 - 1 9 - 9 Bar-tailed Godwit - - - 1 - 1 Whimbrel - - - 5 - 5 Eurasian Curlew - - - 124 - 124 Spotted Redshank - - - 7 - 7 Common Redshank 1 - 1 300 - 300 Common Greenshank 4 - 4 60 - 60 Green Sandpiper 46 - 46 92 - 92 Wood Sandpiper 1 - 1 5 - 5 Common Sandpiper 5 - 5 15 - 15 Turnstone - - - 57 - 57 Black-headed Gull - - - 37 72 109 Common Gull - - - 2 - 2 Herring Gull 5 5 22 5 27 Kittiwake - - - 1 - 1

159 Common Guillemot 4 27 31 28 37 65 Razorbill 4 35 39 6 45 51 Little Auk - - - 1 - 1 Stock Dove - - - - 3 3 Wood Pigeon - - - 23 10 33 Collared Dove 1 - 1 22 4 26 Turtle Dove 1 - 1 3 - 3 Common Cuckoo - - - 4 3 7 Barn Owl 4 24 28 35 307 342 Little Owl - - - 1 2 3 Tawny Owl - - - 21 66 87 Long-eared Owl - - - 3 - 3 Short-eared Owl - - - 1 - 1 European Nightjar - - - 5 - 5 Common Swift - - - 4 - 4 Common Kingfisher 1 - 1 35 - 35 Wryneck 1 - 1 1 - 1 Green Woodpecker 1 - 1 7 - 7 Great Spotted Woodpecker 6 - 6 32 - 32 Skylark 11 - 11 34 6 40 Sand Martin 1 - 1 266 - 266 Barn Swallow 38 249 287 6,370 938 7,308 House Martin - - - 129 3 132 Blyth's Pipit 1 - 1 1 - 1 Tree Pipit 2 - 2 20 22 42 Meadow Pipit 32 - 32 198 15 213 Rock Pipit 11 - 11 19 14 33 Water Pipit 2 - 2 11 - 11 Yellow Wagtail 3 - 3 49 - 49 Grey Wagtail 7 - 7 108 53 161 Pied Wagtail 23 - 23 270 74 344 Waxwing - - - 1 0 1 Dipper - - - 208 423 631 Wren 317 - 317 2,867 29 2,896 Hedge Accentor 259 - 259 2,040 23 2,063 Robin 481 7 488 3,291 81 3,372 Common Nightingale - - - 1 - 1 Bluethroat 1 - 1 2 - 2 Black Redstart - - - 13 - 13 Common Redstart 4 - 4 25 32 57 Whinchat - - - 18 - 18 Common Stonechat 14 - 14 89 10 99 Northern Wheatear 11 - 11 397 266 663 Ring Ouzel - - - 1 - 1 Blackbird 366 1 367 2,764 113 2,877 Fieldfare 3 - 3 10 - 10 Song Thrush 128 - 128 1,129 35 1,164 Redwing 55 - 55 496 - 496 Mistle Thrush - - 6 12 18 Cetti's Warbler 2 - 2 206 - 206 Grasshopper Warbler 7 - 7 57 - 57 Aquatic Warbler - - - 41 - 41 Sedge Warbler 321 4 325 5,924 20 5,944 Marsh Warbler - - - 3 - 3 Reed Warbler 61 - 61 4,432 11 4,443 Paddyfield Warbler - - - 1 - 1 Icterine Warbler - - - 2 - 2 Melodious Warbler 2 - 2 7 - 7 Subalpine Warbler - - - 2 - 2

160 Barred Warbler - - - 2 - 2 Lesser Whitethroat 2 - 2 28 - 28 Common Whitethroat 314 1 314 1,308 5 1,313 Garden Warbler 20 2 22 346 2 348 Blackcap 273 - 273 1,966 - 1,966 Pallas's Leaf Warbler 4 - 4 8 - 8 Yellow-browed Warbler 4 - 4 13 - 13 Dusky Warbler - - - 2 - 2 Western Bonelli's Warbler - - - 1 - 1 Wood Warbler 2 - 2 5 - 5 Chiffchaff 1,022 7 1,029 4,820 25 4,845 Willow Warbler 357 - 357 3,647 100 3,747 Goldcrest 739 - 739 3,455 1 3,456 Firecrest 44 - 44 244 - 244 Spotted Flycatcher 7 1 8 102 69 171 Red-breasted flycatcher - - - 3 - 3 Pied Flycatcher 8 5 13 141 538 679 Bearded Tit - - - 1 - 1 Long-tailed Tit 229 - 229 1,651 - 1,651 Marsh Tit - - - 133 53 186 Willow Tit - - - 120 14 134 Coal Tit 6 - 6 230 53 283 Blue Tit 416 16 432 7,166 2,352 9,518 Great Tit 205 38 243 2,190 595 2,785 European Nuthatch 2 7 9 34 155 189 Eurasian Treecreeper 2 - 2 90 6 96 Red-backed Shrike 1 - 1 3 - 3 Woodchat Shrike 1 - 1 2 - 2 Eurasian Jay 1 - 1 19 - 19 Magpie 6 - 6 39 32 71 Red-billed Chough - 4 4 - 11 11 Eurasian Jackdaw - - - 88 12 100 Rook - - - 14 - 14 Carrion Crow - - - 5 24 29 Common Starling 1 - 1 1,916 - 1,916 House Sparrow 72 3 75 699 4 703 Red-eyed Vireo - - - 1 - 1 Chaffinch 236 - 236 2,720 27 2,747 Brambling 1 - 1 36 - 36 Greenfinch 281 2 283 4,193 23 4,216 Goldfinch 108 1 109 414 25 439 Siskin 5 - 5 70 - 70 Linnet 21 - 21 234 22 256 Common Redpoll 4 - 4 10 - 10 Common Rosefinch 1 - 1 2 - 2 Bullfinch 65 - 65 866 3 870 Hawfinch - - - 1 - 1 Yellowhammer - - - 167 7 174 Cirl Bunting - - - - 3 3 Ortolan Bunting - - - 1 - 1 Little Bunting - - 2 2 Reed Bunting 17 - 17 662 5 667 Corn Bunting - - - 1 21 22

TOTALS 7,242 594 7,836 80,607 7,287 87,894

161 TABLE 3: SELECTED LONGEVITY RECORDS

Species Ring No. Ringed Recovered Y.M.D.#

European Storm-petrel 2378624 14.8.89 12.7.99 9.01.02 Shag 1049141 18.1.67 15.1.89 21.11.28 Mute Swan Z46912 28.11.81 10.3.95 14.03.17 Common Buzzard GM18944 9.6.74 30.9.85 11.03.21 Oystercatcher SS95351 16.8.72 30.8.93 21.00.14 Great Ringed Plover - 11.8.72 26.8.80 8.00.15 Dunlin BA99271 22.9.66 4.12.74 8.02.20 Common Redshank DR43516 28.8.77 3.8.85 7.11.06 Eurasian Curlew FV42925 8.8.78 1.9.93 15.00.24 Black-headed Gull 3102129 28.5.67 25.11.84 17.05.28 Great Black-backed Gull HU17936 5.6.70 31.7.84 14.01.05 Tawny Owl GP57273 7.6.75 22.10.93 18.04.14 Collared Dove EC77498 21.11.65 28.7.79 13.08.06 Dipper CP58458 14.5.70 25.9.78 8.04.11 Song Thrush RX31113 20.7.84 1.7.90 5.00.12 Redwing BV13494 6.11.74 12.1.82 7.02.06 Cetti's Warbler HI77740 1.9.91 28.7.95 3.10.27 Sedge Warbler - 21.8.77 9.8.92 4.11.19 Reed Warbler JS49967 7.5.74 16.5.82 8.00.09 Willow Warbler 8B4086 7.6.80 1.7.84 4.00.24 Pied Flycatcher E153965 4.6.87 8.6.93 6.00.04 Blue Tit B329459 3.9.81 13.6.87 5.09.10 Great Tit - 13.7.76 31.7.82 6.00.18 Magpie EH89906 4.6.85 7.4.93 7.10.03 Common Starling XX15131 31.12.74 31.1.82 8.01.00 # Elapse time in Years, Months and Days between rin ging and finding.

LIST OF RECOVERIES AND CONTROLS This list contains details of birds controlled (i.e. caught and released by a ringer) or recovered (i.e. found dead) in Cornwall in 2004 and previous years.

Column 1 shows ring numbers, and abbreviations used to identify foreign ringing schemes as follows: FRP Paris France NOS Stavanger Norway

Column 2 shows the EURING code for the age of the bird when ringed (note figures are not in years), the sex when known, and the code for the manner of recovery, as follows: 1 pullus (nestling or chick) 2 full-grown, year of hatching unknown 3J hatched during calendar year of ringing, (juvenile plumage) 3 hatched during calendar year of ringing (post juvenile moult complete) 4 hatched before calendar year of ringing, but exact year unknown 5 hatched during previous calendar year 6 hatched before previous calendar year, but exact year unknown M male F female X found dead, dying or injured R caught and released by ringer + shot or killed by man FR field record, ring number or colour marks determined in field

162 Column 3 shows the date of ringing, control or recovery.

Column 4 shows the place where the bird was ringed, controlled or recovered. Column 5 shows the distance travelled.

Column 6 shows the number of days elapsed between ringing and control or recovery.

European Storm Petrel 2441978 14.07.99 4 St Martins, Isles of Scilly 18.07.04 R Gwennap Head 42 km 1829 days 2527008 11.07.99 4 Gwennap Head 18.07.04 R Gwennap Head 1832 days 2544082 29.07.01 6 Gwennap Head 18.07.04 R Gwennap Head 1085 days 2544087 29.07.03 6 Gwennap Head 17.07.04 R Pendeen Watch 13 km 354 days 2582739 18.07.04 4 Pendeen Watch 19.07.04 R Rumps Point, Pentire 73 km 1 day NOS 11.08.03 4 Krakenes Fyr, Norway E859154 17.07.04 R Pendeen Watch 1474 km 341 days A typical set of local and rapid movements apart from the Norwegian bird, which is the first to be caught in Cornwall.

Shag 1351530 14.06.97 1 The Brisons 22.05.04 X Saint Quay Portrieux, Cotes-du-Nord, France265 km 2534 days 1351607 26.05.04 1 The Brisons 24 km 167 days 1351612 26.05.04 1 The Brisons 29.09.04 X off Helford 42 km 126 days 1351614 26.05.04 1 The Brisons 09.09.04 X Mousehole 14 km 106 days 1351617 26.05.04 1 The Brisons 08.12.04 X off Falmouth 46 km 196 days 1351630 26.05.04 1 The Brisons 30.10.04 X Torquay, Devon 160 km 157 days 1351644 07.06.04 1 The Brisons 18.09.04 X St Michael's Mount 17km 103 days 1409416 07.06.04 1 The Brisons 13.08.04 X Gunwalloe Fishing Cove 32 km 67 days 1409433 07.06.04 1 The Brisons 03.10.04 X Torquay, Devon 160 km 118 days 1409435 07.06.04 1 The Brisons 02.10.04 X off Nare Head 46 km 117 days 1409457 07.06.04 1 Armed Knight 20.10.04 X off Nare Point 47 km 135 days 1409453 07.06.04 1 The Brisons 31.08.04 X Porthmellin Head 53 km 85 days These recoveries show where first year birds disperse to during the autumn and winter; mainly sheltered bays and estuaries.

163 Purple Sandpiper 22.05.03 Hafurbjarnarstadir, Iceland (Col. Ring) 02.11.04 FR Battery Rocks, Penzance 1756 km 164 days This is the first recovery of and Icelandic bird in Britain.

Green Sandpiper SR25429 13.08.04 3 Nanjizal 19.08.04 FR Stithians Reservoir 38 km 6 days NV6793222.07.04 3 Ynyslas, Dyfed, Wales 02.08.04 R Nanjizal 295 km 11 days SR25411 29.07.04 3 Nanjizal 07.08.04 FR Drift Reservoir 10 km 9 days

Razorbill M92934 14.06.04 1 The Brisons 06.07.04 X near Burry Port, Dyfed, Wales 200 km 22 days Barn Owl FB15313 16.06.03 IF near Liskeard 20.07.04 X Callington 12km 407 days

Blackbird CF36194 07.11.99 4F Nanjizal 24.03.02 R Walsgrave, Coventry, West Midlands 397 km 868 days CT67641 06.11.04 3M Nanjizal 16.11.04 X Mousehole 12 km 10 days

Grasshopper Warbler T077066 22.04.04 4 Nanjizal 07.05.04 X Furnace, Mayo, Eire 504 km 15 days

Sedge Warbler FRP 01.08.99 3 Le Massereau, Loire-Atlantique, France 4334423 16.07.00 R Nanjizal 419km 350 days N419791 09.08.03 3J Ballycotton, Cork, Eire 01.05.04 R Nanjizal 257 km 266 days T077176 21.07.04 4 Nanjizal 07.08.04 R Laguna de la Nava, Palencia, Spain 889 km 17 days T149966 05.08.04 3 Land's End 21.08.04 R Trunvel, Finistere, France 260 km 16 days T279131 03.08.04 3 Nanjizal 07.07.04 R Trunvel, Finistere, France 258 km 4 days T279722 14.08.04 3 Nanjizal 22.08.04 R Trunvel, Finistere, France 258 km 8 days A typical set of recoveries highlighting the migration route that runs through western Spain anc France to western parts of the UK.

Common Chiffchaff NOS 07.09.03 4 Titran, Sor-Trondelag, Norway A04707 29.01.04 R Helston Sewage Works 1715 km 144 days ART329 13.10.03 2 Brew Pool

164 21.01.04 R Helston Sewage Works 31 km 100 days 19.02.04 FR Helston Sewage Works 31 km 129 days BAL054 20.08.04 3J Nanjizal 24.09.04 R Rospannel 6 km 35 days The Norwegian bird is the first to be trapped in the County and suggests an origin for a proportion of our wintering birds.

Willow Warbler 5Z8725 02.04.00 4 Nanjizal 08.04.04 X Trebeurden, Cotes-du-Nord, France 211 km 1467days

Blue Tit R630498 09.07.03 3J Nanjizal 07.10.04 X Heamoor, Penzance 13 km 456 days

Chaffinch R145609 05.04.03 6F Portland Bill, Dorset 14.05.04 R Land's End 238 km 405 days

Greenfinch BR11936 13.07.02 3M Cooksland, Bodmin 31.10.04 X Blisland 6km 840 days

Ringed birds All records of ringed or colour-marked birds are of immense value so please report them to the relevant person, see below, and the County Recorder. If you find a ringed bird, please note the ring number and ringing scheme address, species, location, date of finding and cause of death if known, and forward details to the BTO, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU. Colour marked birds Many colour-marking schemes are currently operating in Britain and Europe. Sightings such birds should be notified to the co-ordinators shown below: Great Cormorant - Graham Ekins, 35 Church Road, Boreham, Essex, CM3 3DN. Waders - Mark Collier, Wader Study Group, c/o The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU. Large Gulls - Peter Rock, 59 Concorde Drive, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS10 6PX. Small Gulls - Kjeld Pederson, Daglykkevej 7, DK-2650, Hvidovre, Denmark. Wildfowl - Rich Hearn, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucester, GL2 7BT. Chiffchaff - Greg Conway, BTO, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU. Other species - BTO (address as above). Acknowledgements To all ringers who submitted totals and details of their recoveries and to John Phillips for providing details of an additional recovery.

References Clarke, J.A., et al, 2002, Bird Ringing in Britain & Ireland in 2001, Bird Study, Vol 21 (2), pp 80-143.

Greg Conway

165 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey Report Results from a countywide survey by the Barn Owl Trust in association with

Paul R French and David J Ramsden

166 Paul French (BOT) - fieldwork, data processing and mapping, report writing David Ramsden (BOT) - project design & management, report editing/writing Acknowledgements

BOT Staff Amy Oliver - managing volunteers, fieldwork, proofreading and data entry. John Howells - ledger production, help with IT, data entry and fieldwork. Simon Balmford - fieldwork, data entry and proof reading. Isabel Vacas - fieldwork and data entry. Sandra Reardon - IT support, admin management and proof reading. Frances Ramsden - cover design Stacey Sewell - proof reading.

BOT Volunteer Interviewers Stan Gay Leonard Oates Tom and Yvonne Byles Daniel Eva Vaughan Upson Sally Roberts Paula West Abi Evans Les Minton John and Brenda Dickson Karen Barnard Jennifer Gegg Neil Lindsay Pat Williams Phillip Dale Elizabeth Bancroft Chris Robinson Paul Cox

Funding This study was almost entirely funded by the Barn Owl Trust with contributions from: His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales Duke of Cornwall Imerys Pic. Restormel Borough Council Elmgrant Trust

General Cornwall FWAG for survey form distribution. English Nature (licensing). Paul McCartney (ERCCIS) for informed discussion on the distribution of Barn Owls in Cornwall. Greg Conway for the contribution of BTO ringing data. All the farmers and landowners who facilitated the fieldwork. Everyone who contributed records.

© 2005 Barn Owl Trust

French, PR and Ramsden, DJ (2005) 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey Report. Ashburton, Devon: Barn Owl Trust Report.

167 2004 CORNWALL BARN OWL SURVEY

Introduction. The Barn Owl in a global context. The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is one of our most popular and attractive birds. It has been the subject of folklore and fascination for centuries. It also has one of the widest distributions of any land bird, breeding on every continent except Antarctica. The Barn Owl has been separated into 37 recognisable races, and the nominate race Tyto alba alba is distributed across Britain, western and southern parts of Europe, and into adjacent parts of North Africa (Taylor 1994). The European population is largely sedentary, although north eastern populations may move south and west to escape the worst of the continental winters (Mikkola 1983). Barn Owls from the darker eastern European race Tyto alba guttata are occasionally recorded in Britain and although most of these are found on the east coast ring recoveries show that eastern European Barn Owls can even occur in Cornwall (Wernham et al, 2002). Here in Britain, it is only dispersing juveniles that move any distance. Adult British Barn Owls are highly sedentary and most remain faithful to one home range throughout their lives. During the breeding season hunting is concentrated within 1-2 km of the nest but in winter individuals may forage as far as 5 km from their former nest site (Cayford 1992, Taylor 1994, Wernham et al. 2002).

UK Barn Owl population estimates. The evidence for the Barn Owl's abundance and subsequent decline is largely anecdotal, however compelling it may be. The first attempt at a population census was undertaken by George Blaker in 1932 and gave a population estimate for England and Wales of 12,142 pairs (Blaker 1933). A second census over the same area was attempted between 1983-1985, and resulted in a population estimate of 3,750 pairs (Shawyer 1987), a decline of 69% over 50 years. However, due to limitations in both surveys, Percival (1992) suggested that there was not enough quantative data to identify how large the decline of the Barn Owl was, and whether or not it was still continuing. The first reliable population estimate for Britain's Barn Owls was achieved in 2000 by Project Barn Owl (Toms et al. 2000), and gave an estimate of 4,000 pairs.

Barn Owl decline. Whilst the causes of Barn Owl decline are numerous, there is a general consensus that the principal factor is a reduction in food supply caused by agricultural intensification. Specific changes include loss of unimproved pasture, increase in stocking rates, the switch from hay making to silage, loss of rough field margins and hedgerows, the switch from spring sown to autumn sown cereals and changes in grain storage (Chamberlain et al. 2000). The loss of unimproved and rough grassland was estimated at 92% (Fuller 1987) and hedgerow loss at 23% (Haines-Young et al. 2000). As a result, the amount of Barn Owl prey (mainly voles, shrews, mice, and rats) on farmland has been greatly reduced and this is closely associated with reduced nesting success and an increase in Barn Owl mortality (Taylor 1994). The loss of old barns through disuse, decay, demolition and conversion along with the loss of hollow trees has greatly reduced the number of potential nest/roost sites and has been identified as a cause of local population decline (Ramsden 1995, 1998). In recent years it has also become apparent that major roads (such as dual carriageways) are having a serious negative impact on Barn Owls and are a major limiting factor in their population and distribution (Ramsden 2003). All the causes of Barn Owl decline in the UK as a whole are also evident in Cornwall (pers obs).

Cornish Barn Owl population estimates. In 1932, the Cornish Barn Owl population was estimated to be approximately 342 pairs (Blaker 1933) and the 1983-1985 survey produced an estimate of 269 pairs (Shawyer 1987). However, the reader should remember that these estimates were not reliable and that in this relatively remote part of Britain the Barn Owl population was almost certainly under-recorded and therefore under-estimated. The Barn Owl Trust (BOT) and the Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society (CBWPS)

168 undertook the first Cornwall Barn Owl Survey in 1994 as a joint project. This study estimated the Cornish population to be between 100-200 pairs (Grant et al. 1995) however the reader should note that this survey was not designed to produce an accurate county population estimate. It consisted of re-checking all known sites rather than the cold searching of randomly selected areas (as in Project Barn Owl) which is a preferred method for producing population estimates. Despite these limitations, the census-type methodology used in the 1994 survey did have the advantage of producing a detailed database on the bird's activity at all known sites. It also enabled conservation effort to be directed at confirmed nesting and roosting sites, as a much higher proportion of nesting pairs were located than in a random search of selected areas, as in Project Barn Owl. Since the 1994 survey the Barn Owl Trust has continued to record Barn Owls in Cornwall and the number of reports of traditional nest sites collected annually at the Royal Cornwall Show suggests that Cornish Barn Owls have been greatly under-recorded in the past.

Barn Owl conservation in Cornwall since the 1994 survey. The work of the Barn Owl Trust and others has helped increase awareness of Barn Owls across the county. Advice from groups such as BOT, FWAG, CWT, and RSPB along with agri-environment schemes such as Countryside Stewardship have all helped to increase the amount of rough grassland (the Barn Owl's optimum foraging habitat) in Cornwall. The Barn Owl Trust, individual enthusiasts, and farmers have erected hundreds of Barn Owl nestboxes particularly in modern farm buildings that otherwise lack potential hiding and nesting places. Following recommendations from the BOT in 1995 North Cornwall District Council became the first local authority in Britain to require developers to incorporate provision for Barn Owls into all rural barn conversions. Other Cornish authorities have required provision to be made for Barn Owls only at development sites where signs of occupation were noticed. However the situation is improving and all local authorities in Cornwall now require a bat and Barn Owl survey to be undertaken as part of the planning application for a barn conversion. This should greatly increase the awareness of Barn Owls amongst planners and developers. In Cornwall, Imerys Minerals Ltd, in conjunction with the BOT, currently undertakes the only dedicated conservation effort aimed solely at Barn Owls. This is a 5-year project involving the erection and annual monitoring of over 40 nestboxes and the provision of management recommendations for 23 designated habitat areas in the china clay mining area near St Austell. This initiative has had mixed success. Habitat management is a constant challenge due to the ever- changing nature of the landcape. 2004 proved to be good year, with three nests recorded in nestboxes on Imerys land, and a further five on land adjacent to Imerys' mining area.

Aims of the survey. The main aims of the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey were to: 1. establish the number and distribution of known sites where breeding or roosting occurred in 2004, 2. check all breeding and roosting sites found during the 1994 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey, 3. recheck all breeding and roosting sites recorded by the BOT in the ten years since the last survey, 4. create detailed distribution maps of Barn Owl activity, 5. check data coverage by interviewing landowners in randomly selected tetrads with no reported Barn Owl activity, 6. produce a county population estimate that can be compared to 1994.

Methods Survey sites. The 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey was undertaken in much the same way as the 1994 survey, with slight but significant improvements. The same methods were used in the 2003 Devon Barn Owl

169 Survey (Ramsden and Howells, 2004). The main activity involved the rechecking of all nesting and roosting sites held on the BOT database at the start of the survey year. The main ways in which sites have been reported were as follows: a) intentionally given to the BOT by the public/landowners/farmers (sometimes in response to specific media appeals). b) incidentally recorded in the course of general enquiries received by BOT. c) via contact with other organisations/groups/individuals with an interest in Barn Owls/conservation/rural buildings. d) by BOT staff/volunteers in the course of general fieldwork, education events, or research projects. In addition, a minority of previously unrecorded sites were reported to BOT during the survey year or discovered during survey fieldwork. However, there were no intentional physical searches for signs of Barn Owl occupation at completely unknown sites (no cold searching). All reports from the general public were carefully examined. This often involved the careful asking of relevant questions when the initial report came in. It was usually possible to gauge how reliable a report was by contacting the informant and talking through their sighting with them. Many reports actually referred to Tawny Owls. These were usually easy enough to recognise, and any clearly incorrect reports were omitted from the dataset. Just before survey fieldwork commenced (in Spring 2004), a ledger was created which listed all sites in Cornwall where Barn Owls had been reported as nesting, or roosting, at any time since the start of the previous survey year; 596 sites in total. This compares to 912 sites that were detailed in the Devon Barn Owl Survey 2003 ledger. Great care was taken to ensure that no sites received duplicate visits so as to minimise any disturbance to the birds. However, duplicate visits could still occur where the original information given to BOT was inaccurate (either site name or grid reference) or if a known site was newly reported under a different name and/or grid reference. As far as possible, the type of site the birds were using and the nest position were recorded. Site types were categorised as follows: 1. Traditional agricultural building (TAB). 2. Modern agricultural building (MAB). 3. Nestbox (NB). 4. Barn conversion with provision for Barn Owls (incorporated into the structure). 5. Barn conversion without provision. 6. Hollow tree. 7. Other. (Any other type of building or structure e.g. derelict house, mine building, garden shed, mineshaft.)

Site search methods. When searching for signs of Barn Owl occupation, the first point of contact was usually the original informant, who was often the site owner or tennant. This initial contact sometimes provided enough relevant information to render a site visit unnecessary. This was most commonly the case with nest sites adjacent to the owner's house where the activities of the Barn Owls and the noises made by the chicks were readily apparent. However, it was necessary to visit and search the majority of sites. This was only carried out by licensed BOT staff and no sites were entered without permission. Most searches started by checking the outside of the buildings for signs of possible Barn Owl entry then progressed by checking the highest buildings for droppings, pellets, and feathers. After this any nestboxes or potential nest places were checked for signs of Barn Owl use. Systematic searching progressed through the site until all buildings with access for Barn Owls had been checked. Searches were conducted, signs were identified, and pellets were aged, following the methods described within the booklet Barn Owls on Site - a guide for developers and planners (Ramsden & Ramsden 2001).

170 Interview tetrads Prior to the commencement of site survey work, a distribution map of the 596 sites to be checked was produced. From this map, 2km map squares (tetrads) were identified where there were no records of occupation by Barn Owls since 1st January 1994. These tetrads were semi-randomly allocated to a distinct group of BOT volunteers known as interviewers. The allocation intentionally avoided tetrads dominated by unsuitable habitat (urban, open water/mud, continuous woodland etc.) and positively selected those within the volunteer-selected distance (from home). Nevertheless, these interviewer tetrads were fairly evenly spread throughout the county (see Map 5). Within each tetrad every farmstead (and any other locations with potential roost/nest places) was visited and an interview held with the occupier following standard interview guidelines and recording form. Although interviewers did not search sites, BOT staff/volunteers were available for verification searches where necessary.

Data recorded Where any material evidence relating to 2004 was found, the status was recorded as follows: Nesting - one or more eggs or young seen, definite young heard calling for food, definite adults seen repeatedly carrying food to the nest site, nestling (mesoptile) down in the nest or nest debris certainly dating from 2004. Roosting Regularly - ten or more pellets dating from 2004. Roosting Occasionally - less than ten pellets dating from 2004. In sites where no Barn Owl evidence was found, or where any evidence dated from before 1 st January 2004, the status was recorded as absent. Where there was no material evidence, but the site owner had seen at least one Barn Owl in the immediate vicinity (since 1st January 2004), the status was recorded as seen more than once a week, seen more than once a month or seen less than once a month as appropriate.

Data processing All of the information collected for the survey was entered on to the BOT database (Microsoft Access™). From this database, it was possible to selectively extract relevant site status data. The data was then transferred to Microsoft Excel%o for processing. This involved the manual amalgamation of multiple records for a small number of individual sites and searches for data entry errors, a small number of which were found and rectified. Distribution maps were created using D-map™. Interpretation of distribution maps. In the production of the distribution maps, the following parameters were followed: 1. Nesting records are shown as priority, followed by regular roosting, occasional roosting and then sight records only. 2. Only one record is shown in any tetrad, following the priority order outlined in 1. 3. A tetrad may contain more than one record of the same type. 4. Blank tetrads do not necessarily indicate an absence of Barn Owls. 5. Local authority boundaries are defined with a dashed line. 6. The red lines indicate dual carriageway. 7. Land above 300 metres (mainly in Bodmin Moor) is outlined with a solid thin line. An attempt was made to compare Barn Owl distribution to land use using aerial photographs on the CD-ROM Cornwall edition of "High in the Sky" and by using the agricultural land use data available on the DEFRA website.

Results Survey coverage The reader should bear in mind that no map squares were intensively searched (no cold searching) and that site recording was intentionally focused on roost and/or nest sites occupied at some time since 1st January 1994. Map 1 shows all of the tetrads that contained at least one of these sites and is therefore a good indicator of the distribution of survey effort.

171 Map 1. Distribution of tetrads containing at least one site checked during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey It should be remembered that this map only gives an indication of the geographical spread of our coverage, i.e. it may include tetrads where no material evidence of Barn Owls was subsequently found and may not include tetrads where additional sites were recorded during 2004.

Site occupation The initial number of sites in the ledger was 596. This increased during the course of the survey (as more sites were reported to the Barn Owl Trust) and by the end of the survey 835 individual sites had been checked/recorded - five and a half times as many as were checked in 1994. Clearly this has implications for comparisons between the two surveys (see under Discussion and Appendix). As can be seen from Table 1, the total number of 2004 nests recorded during the survey was 217, with 244 roosting-only sites. Of the 56 nest sites recorded in 1994, 22 were still used for nesting in 2004, while 19 had been abandoned. Similarly, of the 54 roosting sites recorded in 1994, 5 were still being used for roosting, 11 were found to be nest sites in 2004, and 27 (50%) were recorded as absent. A full breakdown of these figures and a comparison of changes within each local authority district can be found in the tables within Appendix 1.

Local Authority District Barn Owl status in Cornwall during 2004 Nesting Roosting Roosting Previously occupied, Regularly Occasionally now Absent Penwith 18 10 9 22 34 16 6 26 Carrick 32 19 20 30 Restormel 39 17 10 40 North Cornwall 65 36 22 49 Caradon 29 30 20 54 Totals 217 157 87 221

Table 1: Main results table showing number of Barn Owl sites in each local district as recorded during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey. Note that all sites referred to as absent are where Barn Owls had been reported either nesting or roosting between 01/01/94 and 31/12/03.

172 Distribution The previous Cornwall Barn Owl Survey Report (1994) only presented distribution maps at the 5km^ level. This was in accordance with the Barn Owl Trust's confidentiality policy at the time (Grant et al. 1995). This policy was subsequently revised, so the 1994 results are reproduced here at the tetrad level (Map 2).

Map 2. The distribution of Barn Owls as recorded during the 1994 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey.

173 Map 3. MAIN 2004 RESULTS MAP. The distribution of Barn Owls as recorded during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey (2km squares). Including regular sightings during the main breeding season (March - August inc.).

In the new distribution map (Map 3), frequent Barn Owl sightings during the breeding season are included so as to check for the under-recording of nest sites. Of the 52 sightings reported as being "seen more than once a week" during the breeding season, 22 were in tetrads already containing at least one nesting or roosting record. This leaves a further 30 tetrads containing at least one "seen more than once a week" sighting. To further investigate the possibility of under-recording, all of the frequent (breeding season) sightings were mapped with all of the known nest sites but ignoring roost sites (Map 4). If coverage was excellent, frequent sightings should have been in or adjacent to squares containing known nests. As can be seen from both Maps 3 and 4, this was generally the case, but with some notable exceptions. Map 4 shows this to good effect. Out of the 52 tetrads containing frequent sightings there were only nine which were not adjacent to a tetrad containing a known nest site. Less frequent sightings (e.g. "seen more than once a month") may refer to non-breeding birds, whereas Barn Owls seen more than once a week in the nesting season are much more likely to be breeding nearby. Tetrads containing roosting only records are more difficult to assign to a possible nesting status as many roosting-only sites will be used by birds which breed elsewhere. The non- breeding status of the Barn Owl population is largely unknown, but is likely to be significant. Unfortunately, no serious work has been done to investigate how many non-breeding adults are present in a population at any one time (Taylor 1994). This makes any assumption about roosting birds having a nest nearby invalid, as they may simply be part of the non-breeding population.

174 Map 4. The distribution of known nest sites and regular sightings during the main breeding season (March - August inc.) as recorded during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey.

Interview tetrads

Map 5. Distribution of Interview Tetrads used in the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey.

175 The purpose of the interviews was to establish whether there was any known Barn Owl activity in tetrads (Map 5) where the BOT had no records (since 1st January 1994) so as to provide a further indication of survey coverage (the extent of under-recording). Within these 33 tetrads (132km2), four new nest sites were recorded along with seven roosting-only sites and 37 regular sightings. Due to the nature of interviews, there is a possibility that there were further occupied sites that were not recorded. This may have been due to lack of knowledge on the interviewees' part, or an unwillingness to disclose the information. Table 2 shows the distribution of interview results in each local authority district. There was a distinct easterly bias in the allocation of interview tetrads, which is reflected in the results. Nearly 70% of all the interview tetrads were in Caradon or North Cornwall. Therefore it is to be expected that more records would be found in these areas. When the percentage of total records in Caradon and North Cornwall are compared to the percentage of tetrads in each district, the two figures are almost identical. The numbers of interview tetrads in each of the remaining four districts (1+2+3+4) were too low to permit a similar comparison. However grouping them together shows that the 30.9% of interview tetrads (in the four westernmost districts) produced 29.2% of all the records collected by interviews. The similarities in the three pairs of figures (Caradon, North Cornwall, and the rest) suggest that there was no obvious east/west or north east/south east difference in the extent of under- recording. In the 132km2 (where BOT had no records of previous nesting or roosting and where interviews took place) the 4 nests recorded suggests a population density of not less than 3.3 pairs/10km square in the blank squares in Map 1 (other than those in areas of unsuitable landscape).

Seen Seen Seen % of total % of total > > < interview interview once once once tetrads in records in a week a month a month district district Reg . roos t distric t Occ . roos t tetrad s i n eac h Numbe r o f intervie w Nes t

Pen with 2 1 0 1 2 0 1 6.1 10.4 Kerrier 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3.0 0 Carrick 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 12.1 2.1 Restormel 3 0 0 0 1 1 6 9.1 16.7 North Cornwall 10 0 1 0 1 2 11 30.3 31.3 Caradon 13 3 3 2 2 4 5 39.4 39.6 Totals 33 4 4 3 6 8 23 Table 2: Breakdown of results from the Interview Tetrad element of the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey, showing the number of interview tetrads in each local authority district, the status of previously unrecorded Barn Owl sites, and the percentage of the tetrads (n=33) and Barn Owl records (n=48) in each district.

Nest site type Out of the total of 217 nest sites, site type was recorded at 70% (n=151) and the position of the nest was recorded at 65% (n = 141). The results are presented in Charts 1 & 2. A closer examination of the data revealed that nests in MABs (modern agricultural buildings) are almost always in nestboxes whereas nesting in TABs (traditional agricultural buildings) is divided between nestboxes and more semi-natural sites such as wall tops. This is simply a reflection of the nesting opportunities which these buildings provide as was shown in an earlier study: MABs are generally unsuitable for Bam Owls unless a nestbox is provided but 48% of TABs afford a potential nest place even without a nestbox (Ramsden 1995).

176 Although the majority of recoded nests were in nestboxes the reader should bear in mind that nests in boxes were more likely to be recorded. Birds in natural sites (such as hollow trees) and more semi- natural sites (such as ruins) were less likely to be recorded and are therefore probably more frequent than these results suggest.

Chart 1. Type of sites where Barn Owl nests were recorded (n = 151) during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey.

Note: "Other" refers to a wide variety of man-made structures. These include disused mine buildings, derelict houses, sheds and even a viaduct.

Chart 2. Nest position at sites where nest details were recorded (n = 141) during the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey.

Note: Wall tops, cavities in walls, roof spaces and other related sites are grouped together for ease of recording. Often the site owner knew that Barn Owls were nesting, but was not exactly sure where the nest was.

Discussion BOT data collection and county survey methodology. The systematic recording of Cornish Barn Owl sightings reported to the BOT started around 1990 and much of this early data was incorporated into the 1994 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey. From this baseline, the number of records held by the Barn Owl Trust of Cornish nest sites, roost sites and sightings of individual Barn Owls has increased to over 3,200. This represents a huge database of Barn Owl activity, and is only exceeded by the BOT's number of records for Devon. It was from this database that all nesting and roosting records from 1st January 1994 were extracted. Surveys designed to produce a reliable population estimate are normally based on the intensive cold searching of randomly selected sample areas where absence (as well as presence) is quantified. The figures are then extrapolated to provide an estimate for the whole area. This is the type of method used in Project Barn Owl (see Introduction). Unfortunately, such studies are unable to produce detailed local information (such as distribution maps) as only a small percentage of the area (and the population) is ever surveyed. Census-type county surveys (such as the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys) make no attempt to quantify the absence of Barn Owls and this prevents the production of a reliable population estimate. However the census-type survey method has some major advantages: It facilitates the verification of occupation at previously recorded sites It produces a highly detailed inventory of all known currently occupied sites • It allows conservation effort to be targeted at known Barn Owl sites It enables the production of detailed local distribution maps. As a direct result of the BOT's data recording and census-type surveys (in Devon and Cornwall), probably has the most accurately mapped Barn Owls anywhere in the world*. The addition of the interview tetrad element of the current survey, plus the comparison of frequent

177 breeding-season sightings with known nest sites, both help to indicate the extent of coverage/under- recording. * See the first-ever combined Devon and Cornwall distribution map in Appendix 3. Indications of coverage achieved. a) The 33 interview tetrads recorded four nest sites and seven roosting sites that were previously unknown to the BOT (see Table 2 for a breakdown of results). In the 2003 Devon Barn Owl Survey 28 interview tetrads produced no new nest records. The higher number recorded in Cornwall suggests that coverage is lower than in Devon (i.e. that Cornish Barn Owls are relatively under-recorded). b) A close examination of the main results map (Map 3) shows that 81% of roosting-only tetrads are adjacent to nesting tetrads. This suggests reasonable coverage was achieved. c) Similarly, a close examination of Map 4 shows that 83% of the tetrads containing frequent breeding-season sightings were adjacent to a tetrad containing a known nest site. This too suggests that coverage was reasonable. d) BOT staff who carried out the survey noted that many sites were independently reported as being occupied (by two or more people). Similarly, many of the sites reported by the public during the survey year were already in the survey ledger (see Methods). This suggests reasonable coverage was achieved. e) Compared to the approximately 150 sites checked in the 1994 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey, the 835 sites checked during the 2004 Survey represent a 557%) increase in the number of sites covered. f) As a general estimate of geographical coverage, there were 492 tetrads that contained at least one site checked for this survey and these tetrads represented 63% of potentially suitable landscape. Out of the remaining 294 tetrads, 33 (11%) were covered by volunteer interviews at all farmsteads and other potential sites (see point a). Coverage has obviously increased dramatically and with hindsight the coverage achieved in 1994 seems very poor. Given the indications (above) and sheer number of 2004 Barn Owl records, it's hard to imagine that less than 50%> of occupied sites were recorded.

Distribution of the Barn Owl in Cornwall. Barn Owls are widespread in Cornwall but their distribution is far from even and parts of the county are devoid of records. One obvious feature of Map 3 is the red line of the A30 which cuts a corridor through most of the county where there are relatively few Barn Owl records. The effects of modem "A" roads on Barn Owls are well documented in the BOT publication "Barn Owls and major roads" (Ramsden 2003). The presence of a modern "A" road can have a considerable negative impact on fledgling survival and dispersal, and of all owl and raptor road casualties Barn Owls are the most frequent. Major roads normally result in the complete absence of breeding Barn Owls within 0.5km either side of the road, severe depletion of their population within 0.5-2.5km of the road and some depletion within 2.5-8km of the road (Ramsden 2003). The three main areas showing a distinct lack of records are North Cornwall coast (between Tintagel and Kilkhampton), Bodmin Moor, and a small region south of Wadebridge. Possible local factors and Barn Owl distribution over the rest of the county are discussed on a district-by-district basis in Appendix 2. A preliminary investigation into the factors that may be influencing Cornish Barn Owl distribution suggests that Barn Owls may be more numerous in areas of mixed or mainly arable farming rather than in mainly livestock areas. It is important to remember that the Barn Owls are probably not using the crop fields themselves for hunting, but rather the associated areas of set aside and rough grassland along the field margins and hedgerows. Agri-environment grant schemes such as Countryside Stewardship (CSS) have helped to increase the amount of rough grass field margins on arable and mixed farms to a greater extent than on livestock farms. The amount of land under CSS management is fairly evenly distributed throughout Cornwall, and a

178 distribution map is available by following the links from the DEFRA website. Interestingly the Roseland Peninsular has a very high percentage of land farmed under CSS, and the possible correlation between this and the high Barn Owl population in this area is hard to ignore. Conversely, large areas of Bodmin Moor and the North Cornwall coast are under CSS management, and these areas are mainly devoid of Barn Owls. Clearly, the fact that a farm enters into CSS does not necessarily infer that it will suddenly become attractive to Barn Owls. Many of the grass field margins created in agri-environment grant schemes are not primarily managed for small mammals. In order to maximise the benefit to predators such as Barn Owls it is important that future schemes provide permanent grassland that is sufficiently rough and tussocky with a decent litter layer so as to maximise Field Vole numbers (the Barn Owl's main prey).

Breeding density and county population estimate. Cornwall extends to approximately 3548.7km2 and within this area approximately 85.5km2 is mainly urban, 268.7km2 is woodland and 10km2 freshwater. In addition, approximately 40km2 is above 300 metres and generally unsuitable for Barn Owls because of the dominant habitat type (intensively grazed upland). Excluding these unsuitable areas leaves approximately 3144.5km2 of potentially suitable land (31.4 10km squares). The 217 nests recorded in 2004 suggest a breeding density of 6.1 pairs/10km squares, and an adjusted figure to reflect potentially suitable habitat of 6.9 pairs/10km square. The indications of coverage achieved (see above) provide reasonable confidence that the survey managed to record more than half of all the Barn Owl nests in Cornwall in 2004. If coverage was exceptionally low (50%), then the actual breeding population would be twice the number of nests recorded (2x217=) 434 pairs. Similarly, if the coverage achieved was exceptionally high (90%) this would give a breeding population estimate of 241 pairs. Given the indications of coverage achieved it is likely that coverage was in the range of 60-80%. This means that the 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl population estimate is 271-361 breeding pairs. Excluding the approx. 404km2 of unsuitable landscape results in a population density of 8.6-11.5 pairs/10km square. This compares with a population density estimate for Devon of 5.3-7 pairs/10km square. Due to the incomparable methods used in the 1932 and 1985 surveys of England and Wales and the extent of under-recording in the 1994 Cornwall survey (see Introduction) any direct comparison would be misleading. Population estimates published in Project Barn Owl are of limited comparative use for this survey, as they include the whole of the south-west region (Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire). Population density values ranged from 3.06 pairs/10km square to 4.5 pairs/10km square (Toms et al. 2000). The use of only 3 tetrads in Cornwall for the Project Barn Owl research, and the inclusion of four other counties with potentially very different Barn Owl populations render comparison of these figures to those arrived at by this survey of limited value. It is evident however, that Cornwall's population density is well above the regional average. It is certainly much higher than the 5.3-7.0 pairs/10km square estimated for Devon in 2003 (Ramsden & Howells, 2004).

Site type. Nearly half (44%) of all nest sites where the site type was recorded were found in modern barns. This may come as a surprise to the reader with the traditional image of a Barn Owl perched on the window ledge of an old stone barn. These traditional barns are still an important nesting resource for Barn Owls, with 33% of all nest sites recorded being found in them. The dominance of these two site types is perhaps not surprising, given that they are the two most common potential nest sites in the countryside. Indeed, studies by Taylor (1990) in SW Scotland and Ramsden (1995) in Devon showed that the selection of nest site type by Barn Owls was governed simply by the availability of the various types. Barn conversions with provision provided 6% of all recorded nest sites. This relatively low figure might have been much higher if Barn Owl-friendly planning policies had been adopted by Local Authorities BEFORE many old barns were converted rather than afterwards. Nevertheless, the

179 increasing requirement for full Protected Species Surveys being carried out on all potential development sites is encouraging. Hollow trees represented only 3% of all recorded nest site types compared to 13.5% in the 1994 survey. Although birds in remote hollow trees are likely to be under-recorded, there is no reason to think that this bias will have increased over the past ten years. The drop from 13.5 to 3% almost certainly represents a real decline in the number of tree-nesting Barn Owls due to a continuing decline in the number of suitable hollow trees. The exact position of the nest is inevitably linked to the type of site it is within. Modern barns do not generally have suitable wall tops or cavities, and so the only nesting opportunity is usually within a purpose built nestbox. Traditional barns have a much wider range of potential nest sites. These may include a flat wall top, a cavity in the wall, the roof space or any number of small dark concealed corners. Many people have erected nestboxes in traditional barns, and these are also readily used. In fact, 74% of all recorded nest sites were within an indoor nestbox. These are ideal for the Barn Owl to use, but the percentage indicated here is likely to be an over-representation of the true number, as an erected nestbox will be known about by the site owner and is therefore more likely to be reported. 74% of all recorded nests were in nestboxes compared to only 46% in the 1994 survey. Although birds in nestboxes are more likely to be recorded, there is no reason to think that this bias has increased over the past ten years. The increased proportion in nestboxes is almost certainly a result of the decline in the availability of more natural and semi-natural sites such as hollow trees and old barns. The conservation of Cornish Barn Owls depends not only on the availability of sufficient feeding habitat but also the availability of suitable nest/roost sites. Hollow trees are becoming very scarce indeed and as more and more traditional barns are lost to decay, demolition, and unsympathetic development, the importance of making provision for Barn Owls in barn conversions increases as does the usefulness of erecting nestboxes in modern barns.

Summary. The 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey consisted primarily of the re-checking of the 596 nest and roost sites recorded by the Barn Owl Trust since 1st January 1994. During the survey year an additional 239 sites were recorded by the Trust, bringing the total number of sites checked to 835. Barn Owls were found to be nesting at 217 sites, roosting only at 244 sites, and absent from 221. At the remaining 153 sites there was no material evidence of occupation but sightings of individual birds were recorded. The difference between the actual number of occupied sites and the number recorded (survey coverage) was investigated in various ways including the semi-random selection of 33 tetrads (132km^) where interviews were conducted at all farmsteads and other potential Barn Owl sites. Coverage was estimated to be in the range of 60-80%) leading to a population estimate of 271-361 pairs and a breeding density of 8.6-11.5 pairs per 10km square, one of the highest breeding densities in Britain. Detailed distribution maps revealed that the species is widely but not evenly distributed across the county. There was a lack of Barn Owl records along the A30 dual carriageway (as a result of road mortality) on Bodmin Moor (less suitable landscape) and in several other areas for reasons which are not fully understood. In most cases the type of site used by the birds was recorded. Nest site types were fairly evenly divided between traditional barns and modern barns, with 74% of recorded nests being located in a nestbox. Between 1994 and 2004 the proportion of nests in hollow trees declined significantly and the proportion of nests in nestboxes increased significantly.

References Blaker, G.B. (1933). The Barn Owl in England and Wales: results of the census I and II. Bird Notes and News 15, 169-172, 207-211. Caldwell, J., Chown, R., Gal, M., Jackson, P., Jewell, C, Knowles, R., Peers, D. and Scott, J. (1989). North Cornwall Barn Owl Conservation Project. North Cornwall District Council, Bodmin. Cayford, J. (1992). Barn Owl ecology on East Anglian farmland. RSPB Conservation Review 6: 45-50 Chamberlain, DE, Fuller, RJ, Bunce, RGH, Duckworth, JC and Shrubb, M (2000). Change in the abundance of

180 farmland birds in relation to the timing of agricultural intensification in England and Wales. Journal of Applied Ecology 37, 771-788. Chown, D. and Akers, P. (1984). A survey of the breeding birds of Bodmin Moor. Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation. Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society. (1971). 41st Report. Fuller, RM (1987). The changing extent and conservation interest of lowland grasslands in England and Wales: a review of grassland surveys, 1930-84. Biological Conservation 40, 281-300. Getmapping aerial photography. (2003). CD-ROM - High in the Sky: Cornwall. Europress. Grant, K., Lord, D. and Ramsden, D. (1995). 1994 Barn Owl Survey of Cornwall: A joint project by the Barn Owl Trust and the Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society. Ashburton, Devon: Barn Owl Trust Report Haines-Young, RH, Barr, CJ, Black, HIJ, Briggs, DJ, Bunce, RGH, Clarke, RT, Cooper, A, Dawson, FH, Firbanj, LG, Fuller, RM, Furse, MT, Gillespie, MK, Hill, R, Hornung, M, Howard, DC, McCann, T, Morecroft, MD, Petit, S, Sier, ARJ, Smart, SM, Smith, GM, Stott, AP, Stuart, RC and Watkins, JW (2000). Countryside 2000 accounting for nature: assessing habitats in the British countryside. London: DETR. http: //stati stic s. defra. go v. uk/esg/ McCartney, P., Cave, B.S., Lawman, J.M. 1984. Atlas of the breeding birds of the Lizard District of Cornwall. University of Bristol Lizard Project, report Number 16. Mikkola, H. (1983). Owls of Europe. T & A D Poyser, Calton. Penhallurick, R.D. (1978). The birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Headland Publications, Penzance. Percival, SM (1992). Methods of studying the long-term dynamics of owl populations in Britain. In: Galbraith, CA, Taylor, IR and Percival, S (eds) The ecology and conservation of European owls. (UK Nature Conservation No. 5). Peterborough: Joint Nature Conservation Committee, pp. 39-48. Ramsden, D. (1995). Barn Conversion Research Project Report. Ashburton, Devon: Barn Owl Trust Report Ramsden, D. (2003). Barn Owls and Major Roads: results and recommendations from a 15-year research project. Ashburton, Devon: Barn Owl Trust Report Ramsden, D and Howells, J. (2004). 2003 Devon Barn Owl Survey Report. Ashburton, Devon: Barn Owl Trust Report Ramsden, D. and Ramsden, F. (2001). Barn Owls on site: a guide for developers and planners (2nd edition). English Nature, Peterborough. Shawyer, C. (1987). The Barn Owl in the British Isles: its past, present and future. London: The Hawk Trust. Taylor, I. (1994). Barn Owls: Predator-prey relationships and conservation. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Toms, M.P., Crick, H.P.Q. and Shawyer, C.R. (2000). Project barn owl final report. Unpublished report to Bayer AG, LIPHA SA, Sorex Ltd and Zeneca Agrochemicals. Wernham, C.V., Toms, M.P, Marchant, J.H., Clark, J.A., Siriwardena, G.M. & Baillie, S.R. (eds). 2002. The Migration Atlas: movements of the birds of Britain and Ireland. T. & A.D. Poyser, London.

Appendix 1 Results from the rechecking (in 2004) of Barn Owl sites that were occupied in 1994

Total number of nest sites recorded in 1994 56 100.0% Still nesting 22 39.3% Number of 1994 nest Only roosting regularly 5 8.9% sites where in 2004 Only roosting occasionally 5 8.9% Barn Owls are: Seen more than once a week 0 0.0% Seen more than once a month 4 7.1% Definitely absent 19 33.9% Unknown 1 1.8% Table A1.1: Barn Owl status in 2004 at sites in Cornwall where Barn Owls nested in 1994, as recorded during the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys.

181 Total number of roost sites recorded in 1994 54 100.0% Now nesting 11 20.4% Number of 1994 roost Only roosting regularly 2 3.7% sites where in 2004 Only roosting occasionally 3 5.6% Barn Owls are: Seen more than once a week 0 0.0% Seen more than once a month 3 5.6% Seen less than once a month 2 3.7% Definitely absent 27 50.0% Unknown 6 11.1% Table A1.2: Barn Owl status in 2004 at sites in Cornwall where Barn Owls only roosted in 1994, as recorded during the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys.

Nesting sites Still nesting Was nesting, Roosting sites Still roosting Was roosting, in 1994 in 2004 now absent in 1994 in 2004 now absent Penwith 4 0 3 3 1 1 Kerrier 11 3 6 7 0 5 Carrick 9 4 2 8 0 4 Restormel 6 2 2 7 0 3 North Cornwall 13 6 5 13 1 5 Caradon 13 7 1 16 3 9 Total 56 22 19 54 5 27 Table A1.3: Barn Owl status in 2004 at sites in each Cornish Local Authority District where Barn Owls were also recorded in 1994 (as recorded during the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys). Note: sites without material evidence of occupation but where birds had been sighted (in 2004) are excluded.

Local Authority 1994 2004 % District Nest sites Nest Sites Change Penwith 4 18 + 350 Kerrier 11 34 + 209 Carrick 9 32 + 256 Restormel 6 39 + 550 North Cornwall 13 65 + 400 Caradon 13 29 + 123 Total 56 217 + 288 Table A1.4: Changes in the number of recorded Barn Owl nest sites between 1994 and 2004 in each Cornish Local Authority District (as recorded during the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys).

Local Authority 1994 2004 % District Roost sites Roost Sites Change Penwith 3 19 + 533 Kerrier 7 22 + 214 Carrick 8 39 + 388 Restormel 7 27 + 286 North Cornwall 13 58 + 346 Caradon 16 50 + 213 Total 54 215 + 298 Table A1.5: Changes in the number of recorded Barn Owl roosting-only sites between 1994 and 2004 in each Cornish Local Authority District (as recorded during the 1994 and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Surveys).

182 Appendix 2 Barn Owl distribution in each local authority district.

Penwith. Widely distributed throughout most of the district. An apparent lack of records in the north west coastal strip is also apparent in other bird species and may be related to the higher altitude and extremely exposed nature of this area (P. McCartney pers comm.).

J. H. Johns carried out a survey of Barn Owls west of a line running north from Cudden Point in 1971 and discovered 8 nesting pairs (CBWPS 41st report. 1971). In 2004 16 nest sites were recorded (an increase of 100%). It is impossible to say whether or not this represents an increase in numbers, but does suggest that recent coverage in this area was good.

Kerrier. Widely distributed throughout the district. There is a distinct concentration of nests around Helston (again an area of mixed farming). The somewhat sparsely distributed nests in the area between Camborne and the Helford River may be due to less suitable habitat associated with the Carnmenelus upland area. The lack of records along the A30 may be a consequence of major road mortality

The relative scarcity of records from the eastern half of the Lizard is surprising however a survey of the Lizard by McCartney et al. (1984) found a very similar distribution, although with less breeding records.

Carrick. The Roseland Peninsular has a good number of Barn Owl records. This is perhaps the most traditional area of farming in Cornwall, and is well known for being a stronghold of many Cornish farmland bird species (P. McCartney pers comm.).

No records within 2km of the A30 dual carriageway possibly as a consequence of major road mortality. Where there is a break in the dual carriageway (to the north west of Truro ) Barn Owls were recorded.

Lack of records around the Tregothnon Estate, south­ east of Truro where a gamekeeper in the 1970's apparently reported around 15 pairs.

183 Restormel. Fairly evenly distributed. No obvious reason for the slight lack of records to the north of the china clay mining area.

Caradon. Barn Owls are generally well distributed across southern and central Caradon - an area of mainly mixed farming whereas the predominantly pastoral areas of Bodmin Moor (and the areas extending south­ west and south-east from Bodmin Moor) are largely devoid of records.

North Cornwall Barn Owls in North Cornwall are far from evenly distributed. The coastal strip from Delabole right up to (and including) the Bude area appears to be almost devoid of Barn Owls.

Possibly the best area for Barn Owls in Cornwall is the mainly arable area to the north and west of Wadebridge this may be related to the presence of set aside land.

The extent to which Barn Owl distribution is related to farming type is unknown. It is perhaps surprising to find more records of birds in a mainly arable area rather than pastoral. Further research in this area would be of great interest.

The areas north west of Bodmin, west of Launceston and the coastal strip between Tintagel and Bude are mainly pastoral and lacking in Barn Owl records. Bodmin Moor is also largely devoid of Barn Owl records which is less surprising due to the upland nature of the landscape and dominance of sheep and cattle grazing.

184 It is unclear as to how much of an effect altitude has on the distribution of Barn Owls in Cornwall. The higher areas of Bodmin Moor, especially those areas above 300 metres, are likely to receive higher rainfall and have more days of snow cover which would make hunting more difficult. However, Bodmin Moor was previously thought to be a Cornish good area for Barn Owls. In 1942- 44 a pair bred in a deserted farmhouse between Brown Willy and Rough Tor, while another pair was thought to breed on the slopes of Garrow Tor (Penhallurick, 1978). A survey of the moor by the CBWPS in 1977-79 found 14 pairs of Barn Owls, but a similar survey done in 1984 could only locate two pairs (Chown & Akers, 1984).This suggests that Barn Owls have been lost from Bodmin Moor relatively recently, and perhaps the intensity of beef cattle and sheep grazing, rather than altitude, is the major factor behind this.

North Cornwall District Council was the only local authority to actively construct and erect Barn Owl nestboxes. The North Cornwall Barn Owl Conservation Project (Caldwell et al. 1989) recorded 26 nest sites in use in North Cornwall and erected approximately 230 nestboxes in an attempt to increase the population. Only three of their nestboxes had been used by the time their report was published (in 1989).

Appendix 3 Barn Owl distribution in Devon and Cornwall.

Map A3.1 Barn Owl distribution in Devon and Cornwall as recorded during the 2003 Devon Barn Owl Survey and 2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey. Showing county boundaries, the 300 metre contour, motorway (blue) and dual carriageway (red).

185 THE SOCIETY'S RESERVES & HIDES

The Society either owns or has access to a number of reserves and bird watching hides in the county. Brief details of the sites and of access are shown below. Information on the more common species seen at the various sites, and the times of the year when they are most likely to be seen, is best ascertained from the systematic list of species in the body of the report; the tables showing regular reports and maximum numbers are of particular help in this respect.

BURNIERE HIDE (Camel Estuary) The hide is situated at the head of the Camel Estuary at OS ref SW 982 740, close to the Amble Dam. It is owned by the Society. The hide overlooks the mud and tidal flats of the upper estuary. Access is obtained by driving from Wadebridge for one mile on the B3314. Park in the lay-by on the right just before the narrow, traffic light controlled Trewornan Bridge. Cross the road, enter the left of two gates and cross two fields, following the hedges on the right hand side and ENSURING THAT ALL GATES ARE CLOSED AND SECURED. The path can be muddy, so boots are recommended. BEWARE OF BADGER HOLES ALONG THE FIELD ACCESS PATH - THEY APPEAR AS VERTICAL SHAFTS AND ARE OFTEN HIDDEN BY GRASSY VEGETATION. The hide is locked but the combination for the lock is available to members. PLEASE DO NOT WALK ON THE DAM.

CRQWDY RESERVOIR HIDE (Davidstow Moor near Camelford) The hide is situated on the northern end of the reservoir at OS ref SX 147 840, approximately two miles east of Camelford. South West Water owns the reservoir and the hide jointly with the South West Lakes Trust. The hide overlooks the northern shore of the reservoir where the amount of exposed mud varies with the height of the water. Access to the hide is obtained by parking in the dam car park and then walking north along the western shore of the reservoir.

DRIFT RESERVOIR HIDE (Penzance) The reservoir is situated at OS ref SW 432 294, approximately two miles west of Penzance. South West Water owns the reservoir jointly with the South West Lakes Trust. The hide is owned by the Society and overlooks the main reservoir. Further round the shore, there is a scrape that was excavated by the Society. The amount of mud around the shore varies with the level of water, with the widest margins of mud normally being seen in the summer and autumn. Access to the hide is obtained by driving to Drift along the A30 towards Land's End, turning right on the road to Sancreed and then turning right after three hundred yards into the dam car park. Walk along the footpath up the western shore to the hide.

LOVENY RESERVE (Bodmin Moor) The Loveny Reserve is situated on Bodmin Moor, approximately ten miles east of Wadebridge, at the northern end of the eastern finger of Colliford Reservoir OS ref SX 185 752. The Society manages the reserve jointly with the . South West Water and South West Lakes Trust own the reservoir.

186 The reserve has shallow water when the reservoir is high, but increasing amounts of mud as the water level drops. There are islands at times, some with sallows. Access is from the A30 west of Bolventor via a track at OS ref SX 172 752. Park in the lay-by on the A30 and walk down the rough track past some conifer trees to a gate. Take the left fork past a bungalow to the reserve ensuring that all gates are closed and secured. Alternatively, park in the car park near the public toilets on the northwest arm of the reservoir at OS ref SX 165 732 and follow the footpath that runs northeast across several fields to the reserve. ACCESS TO THE RESERVE IS NOT PERMITTED FROM THE BOLVENTOR TO DOZMARY ROAD, but much of the reserve can be viewed by telescope from the road.

LOWER TAMAR LAKE HIDE (Bude) The hide is situated on the western side of the lake at OS ref SS 293 112, approximately six miles northeast of Bude. South West Water owns the lakes and the hide jointly with the South West Lakes Trust. The hide overlooks the western shore of the lower lake. There is no hide on the upper lake. Access to the hide is obtained by parking in the dam car park at the southern end of Upper Tamar Lake and then walking south down the western shore of the Upper Tamar Lake to the hide.

MAER LAKE RESERVE (Bude) The Maer Lake Reserve is situated on the north side of Bude at OS ref SS 208 075. The Society owns the reserve jointly with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. The reserve consists of 8.9 hectares of wetland grazing meadow of which two to fifteen acres can lie underwater, depending on rainfall. Approximately two acres are covered with Yellow Flag Iris. Access is from the car park at Crooklets Beach, situated at the seaward end of the golf course. Walk inland along Downs View Road for about one hundred yards before turning left and then immediately right past the Maer Lodge Hotel down a road signed to Maer Caravan Park. The reserve can be viewed to the right of the road. THERE IS NO ACCESS TO THE RESERVE.

STITHIANS RESERVOIR RESERVES & HIDES (Redruth) The reserves are the southern portion of the main reservoir together with the area cut off by the southern causeway, and the area cut off by the northern (Golden Lion) causeway. The hides are situated at the southern end of the reservoir at OS ref SW 713 350, approximately three and a half miles south of Redruth. South West Water and South West Lakes Trust jointly own the reservoir. The reserves are managed by the Society. One hide overlooks the southern end of the reservoir from a position at the west end of the causeway, and the other looks over the southern "cut off from its western shore. Access to the hides is obtained from the road just west of the southern causeway. Both "cut offs" can be viewed with care from the causeways, and there is also a path around the reservoir.

TREGONCE HIDE (Camel Estuary) The hide is situated on the southern shore of the Camel Estuary at OS ref SW 932 742, approximately one mile southeast of Padstow. It is owned by the Society. The hide overlooks the estuary. Access to the hide is obtained by parking in Padstow and then walking along the Camel Trail towards

187 Wadebridge. After crossing the Iron Bridge and passing through a shallow cutting, look for a well- hidden narrow gate on the left before reaching a picnic area. A small track leads to the hide. The hide is locked but the combination for the lock is available to members.

TREGUNNA HIDE (Camel Estuary) The hide is situated on the southern shore of the Camel Estuary at OS ref SW 966 738, approximately one and a half miles west of Wadebridge, and is owned by Cornwall County Council. The hide overlooks the estuary. Access to the hide is obtained by parking in Wadebridge and then walking along the Camel Trail for approximately one and a half miles towards Padstow. The hide is not locked.

WALMSLEY SANCTUARY (Amble Marshes at head of Camel Estuary) The Walmsley Sanctuary is situated one and a quarter miles north of Wadebridge at OS ref S W 993 746 and is owned by the Society. The reserve is less than one mile from the Camel Estuary and includes over twenty hectares of reclaimed flood plain between Lower Amble and the River Amble. The highest point is around thirteen feet above the Ordnance Datum. The reserve has developed from three pasture fields on land reclaimed from the saltmarsh and is protected from flooding by a dam at the mouth of the River Amble. The vegetation consists predominantly of Loliwn pratense, Cynosurus cristatus pasture, Holcus lanatus and Juncus effusus rush pasture. A recently extended embankment and series of scrapes has increased the area of open water. The reserve also includes hedges, ditches, a shallow pond left when the river was straightened, and one bank of the River Amble. Access is obtained by driving from Wadebridge for one mile on the B3314. Park in the lay-by on the right just before the narrow, traffic light controlled Trewornan Bridge. Walk over the bridge and turn right after approximately fifty yards (through a gate, and ENSURING THAT IT IS CLOSED AND SECURED) down a signed public footpath that goes diagonally across the first field. Cross the stile into the second field and follow the path along the edge to the second stile. Cross the stile to the Ground Level Hide. Alternatively, do not cross the stile and follow the path along the hedge to the gate to Tower Hide. This gate and all others must be kept closed at all times to prevent the escape of livestock. Access to Tower Hide is by kind permission of the farmer - members must keep to the path around the field and must not cut across the field. THE HIDES ARE THE ONLY ACCESS TO THE SANCTUARY, both of which are kept locked. The combination for the lock on Ground Level Hide is available to members who can also obtain a key to the Tower Hide from the Membership Secretary at a cost of £5.

WINDMILL FARM RESERVE (The Lizard) The Windmill Farm Reserve is situated approximately two miles north of Lizard Point at OS ref SW 693 152. The Society owns the reserve jointly with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. The reserve consists of 75 hectares of pasture fields and lowland heath interspersed with hedges and patches of willow scrub. Full details were provided in an article in the 2001 edition of Birds in Cornwall. Two pools and a scrape have been excavated, and six hectares of arable crops are grown specifically for birds. A new hide overlooks the scrape and there is a nature trail. Access is obtained by driving south on the A3083 and turning right along an unmarked road that is situated 0.3 miles after the first turn to Ruan Minor/Cadgwith (two miles north of the centre of Lizard village). Follow the track for half a mile to its end and park in the farmyard where details of the reserve are on display.

188 ACTING CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

The Society has had a remarkably successful year despite being considerably understaffed. The resignation of Gary Lewis as Chairman in May was disappointing, but we have worked hard as a team and have made progress on a number of projects throughout the year. I am pleased to report that Peter Crispin from Launceston has offered his services as Chairman; Peter brings a wealth of experience to the job, especially in education and, if elected, the trustees look forward to working with him.

When Brian Craven stepped down as Conservation Officer at last year's AGM we knew he would be very difficult to replace, and so it has proved. The Trustees have had to cover this position for the last twelve months, individually covering problems in their own areas. When Brian held the post he also successfully managed to link our three reserves together, and made regular reports in person to the Trustees, also answering any questions the Trustees might have. We urgently need to appoint a Conservation Officer, and I hope a member will take on this vital role.

The President and seven Trustees have managed the Society for the last ten months. This is clearly not a large enough committee to deal with the extensive range of all our complex interests and responsibilities. However, I am pleased to report that we have had a successful year, both in terms of a range of interesting projects and financially. The three reserves are in excellent condition, with exciting progress being made at Windmill Farm, and high standards being maintained at Walmsley Sanctuary and Maer Lake. Field meetings have been well attended with a very friendly dedicated following generated by Terry Hasdell. The annual bird report 'Birds in Cornwall' was well received by members and we are very grateful to Kester Wilson and Ian Wilson for their hard work in getting the report out on time to such a high standard. Ian has also worked hard on preparing a site guide on bird watching in Cornwall that will be available to members. We are also making good progress on the Bird Atlas, and have started to discus and consider the cost and implications of publishing. I have had several telephone calls and conversations with members saying how much they enjoy Palores, our grateful thanks to the editor Bob Bridges. Andy Pay has taken over the running of the website www.cbwps.org.uk from Steve Rogers and again members are finding this both helpful and informative. Thanks to Andy for the high quality of the site presentation and information.

My personal thanks to all the Trustees who have worked so hard for the Society the past year, but especially to Treasurer Bob Bridges, Secretary Darrell Clegg and Membership Secretary Sara McMahon who have on a daily basis kept the Society on track by sheer hard work. I am also very indebted to our President Steve Madge for all his help and guidance over this difficult year.

Graham Sutton Acting Chairman 2004

189 CONSERVATION REPORT - 2004

Drift Reservoir The peace of the reservoir was upset, for the first three months of the year, by the unwelcome presence of the Mount's Bay rowing gig. This caused the worst breeding season among the water birds for the fifteen years I have watched the reservoir. The Mute Swans produced no cygnets despite at least two pairs attempting to nest; the Canada Geese were also unsuccessful, perhaps not a bad thing really, and Coot were lost as a breeding species. The Mallard and Moorhen did manage to raise a few young but not to the normal standard. The migrant breeding was unaffected as they arrived after the disturbance had ceased. The gig rowing has finally been stopped after offering proof of the detrimental effect they were having on the wildlife of the reservoir; the South West Lakes Trust have said that rowing will not be allowed in the future. The year kicked off with a record number of Mute Swans, seventy-seven, but this was down to forty- six by the end of March and decreased further as the year wore on. A Black-necked Grebe was present along with two Great-crested Grebes and up to seventeen Little Grebes. A single Ruddy Duck added to the duck population - peak numbers were twenty-three Mallards, eighty-two Tufted Ducks, four Greater Scaups, three Common Pochards, two Goldeneyes, two Gadwall, fifty-six Eurasian Teal and six Canada Geese. There were two Little Egrets present along with forty-five Common Coots and nineteen Common Moorhens. The gull numbers were noticeably lower than usual with no vagrant species present. The breeding season was the worst in fifteen years with no young Mute Swans, Canada Geese or Common Coots and very few Common Moorhens and Mallards. As March came to an end the first of the spring warblers arrived in the form of Common Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers and as April progressed we saw the arrival of Sedge Warblers, Common Whitethroats, Blackcaps, Garden Warblers and Reed Warblers; the latter being a site rarity. Barn Swallows, Sand and House Martins trickled in later followed by Common Swifts and Common Sandpipers. We now reach the interesting period of July to October when the migrating waders arrive and as the water level had dropped sufficiently to be attractive we had a brilliant autumn. We had all the regular waders plus some vagrant species and these included a county first in the form of a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper from Siberia and three American visitors, Pectoral Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs and the much rarer Semipalmated Sandpiper which was the first for many years in the county and a first for the reservoir. Now the winter period and once again the ducks and gulls began to arrive; mid November saw a family party of two adult and two juvenile Whooper Swans. The gulls began arriving in better numbers and included up to five Mediterranean Gulls. Butterflies and Dragonflies It was a fairly good summer for butterflies with all the usual species present but not quite so good for the dragonflies as there were only common species on site with no positive sightings of the rarer Red- veined Darter. The above is a copy of the report that I write each year for the Trout Fishery's newsletter, I have been writing for the last six years. I was assisted on path trimming work by Mr. Frank Hull of Heamoor and Mr. Brian Dodd of Newlyn. Graham Hobin

Maer Lake Maer Lake has always been known as The Pool by local people in Bude, and indeed this name seems to have given the settlement of Maer its name. It was first recorded in an Assize Roll of 1284 as la Mere and John Norden shows the pool on his 16th century map and names it The Mere. Mere is an old English word, still commonly used for a pool. It appears to have been an area of wet grazing

190 shared by the farmers of the adjacent tenements in the post medieval period. I have been bird watching at Maer for thirty-five years(!) Originally I also regarded the pool as a summer grazing meadow which flooded in winter, or at times of extreme rainfall. The sluices that we have installed have changed the character of the reserve, greatly benefiting species like Northern Lapwing and European Golden Plover which find the security of roosting on the Flag Iris islands surrounded by water much to their liking. A major concern when doing management work with heavy machinery has been not to change the depth of water in the reserve. The shallow standing water has now over a period of years created a thick rich silt which is ideal for feeding waders, and it is no surprise to find that considerable numbers of wintering Dunlin have found this ample food supply. The Environment Agency has proposed a major flood prevention scheme for the Flexbury area of Bude; this will involve a new floodbank being constructed at the rear of the houses bordering the reserve. The Society and Cornwall Wildlife Trust have been fully consulted at every stage of the design and development of this scheme, and at the time of writing we feel confident we can come to an amicable agreement to cause the minimum of disturbance and physical damage to the Reserve. Depending on finance being available we would expect this scheme to proceed in either 2006 or 2007. We purchased Maer in 1992 and the following year we cut two major channels through the Flag Iris to assist viewing; over the ensuing years these have started to grow in and narrow. We now need to deal with this problem and get an excavator on to site this summer (weather permitting), and we have agreed a budget with CWT to deal with this. CWT have also kindly agreed to replace a twenty metre stretch of fencing which is in poor condition on the road boundary. The Society is extremely grateful to Callum Deveney the Reserves Officer and his staff for this contribution. Also to Tim Dingle and Anne Barks and all at the Tamar Branch of CWT who have been such stalwarts in supporting the Reserve, from paying for management work to supplying machinery. My thanks also go to Society members Rex Braund and Brian Craven for their much appreciated help and advice. The Reserve goes from strength to strength. European Golden Plover numbers exceeded four thousand at one stage this past winter, and at least eight Jack Snipe were present at the same time. These were both record counts for Maer. Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum emerged at the Reserve last summer in considerable numbers. It is hard to imagine during a cold and icy spell, that beneath the ice, that complex life cycle is functioning and waiting to burst into magnificent flight in the coming summer.

Graham Sutton

Windmill Farm The main new project has been the restoration of Ruan Pool, a SSSI with a history of important records of birds, invertebrates and plants. The site has been neglected for many years, resulting in the shrinkage of the pool due to encroaching vegetation, and the remaining water body becoming choked with decayed material. After consultation with English Nature we hired a contractor to remove this dead vegetation and enlarge the pool. Unfortunately, he had to leave the job unfinished when the autumn rains arrived, but it will be completed next year. The day after he left, there were thirty-nine Eurasian Teal, three Northern Pintails and eleven Dunlins on the new pool. Stuart Hutchings and his Cornwall Wildlife Trust reserves team have built a screened boardwalk to the pool, and a compact hide will follow. The team are well practised in boardwalk construction, having completed a marathon effort elsewhere on the reserve, linking the hide to the dragonfly ponds. National plant experts visiting the reserve discovered that we have three species of stonewort in our ponds. These belong to the algae family, and are freshwater equivalents of seaweed. They have become very scarce and in fact one of the species on the reserve, Strawberry Stonewort, is a Red Data Book species. So impressed were these people, that Plantlife International are giving us £7,000 to

191 cover the cost of constructing and monitoring another new pond. This will of course have all sorts of benefits for other wildlife, birds included. The Information Centre now boasts three professionally built display boards, illustrating the history of the reserve and how it's managed, together with another detailing the work of Dr Lewis Frost, to whom the Centre is dedicated. Our ongoing management continues. We trialled a new mixture which included sunflowers, which attracted lots of finches, and phacelia, which hosts huge numbers of bumble bees during the summer. Our kale, quinoa and weedy fields held a large Chaffinch flock during the winter, although numbers were down on the previous year. The grass fields continue to be grazed by a local herd of Hereford cattle. Less hay will now be grown as our non-chemical management has caused the yield to fall considerably, so it is no longer economical for the farmer to cut it. This means of course that the fields are becoming more botanically diverse, leading to increased numbers and variety of invertebrates. The grazing of the Highland cattle on the heathland has opened it up considerably, allowing the natural flora to thrive once more. The summer saw an increase in the numbers of Marsh Fritillary butterfly. This winter we carried out our first controlled burn, under the supervision of Dave Salmon of the Wildlife Trust. The results look good, opening up a really overgrown patch for the cattle to graze. We will do more burning next winter. The farm bird list has moved on to one hundred and twenty-five species. Four national rarities were seen - Great White Egret, American Golden Plover, Citrine Wagtail and Iberian Chiffchaff (acceptance awaited from the BBRC). Other species seen include Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Red Kite, Common Crane, Ring Ouzel, Cetti's Warbler, Firecrest, Lapland Longspur and Yellowhammer. Most of the breeding warbler species increased last summer and the reserve continues to be a stronghold for Reed Buntings as well as Northern Lapwings and European Golden Plovers, which reached five hundred and fifteen hundred respectively, last winter. A folder in the Information Centre lists all the species of birds recorded at the farm, with full details, together with twenty-six species of butterfly, seventeen of dragonfly, twelve mammals, two hundred and nineteen moths and two hundred and fourteen plants. The CBWPS team on the Management Committee would like to thank the staff of Cornwall Wildlife Trust, English Nature, DEFRA, The Environment Agency and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Andy Pay

Walmsley Sanctuary Breeding was not the best in 2004, weather took its toll of fledglings along with a Marsh Harrier which always seems to time its passage to perfection. The reserve has looked good all through the winter months with good numbers of waders and wildfowl. A Whooper Swan has been present for many months. Otters have been regularly seen through the year in the pools. Our work party concentrated on completing some safety improvements to the hide and access as we had asked a NCDC official to look over the Tower Hide and give us some safety advice. Members can be assured that we followed his recommendations. We intend to give both hides a coat of stain during the summer evenings. There is also some repair work required to stop the main sluice leaking and I will be organizing that through the summer. I may have missed some important items like rare birds but I just love being there to look at everything! Adrian Langdon

192 CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2004

Constitution The Charity was established in 1931 and is governed by its rules which were last amended in April 2004. Charity registration number 255899.

Management Committee Steve Madge President Gary Lewis Chairman (Resigned October 2004) Graham Sutton Vice Chairman Darrell Clegg Secretary Bob Bridges Treasurer Brian Craven Conservation Officer (Retired April 2004) Sara McMahon Steve Rogers (Retired April 2004) Greg Adams (Retired April 2004) Claire Mucklow Membership Secretary Terry Hasdell Field Meetings Officer Rosemary Parslow Cathy Tucker (Appointed April 2004)

Address for correspondence 21 Pare Peneglos, Bells Hill, Mylor, TR11 5SL

Independent Examiner

Mrs JE Cox FCA, Whitaker Redfearn Pappin, Bryndon House, 5/7 Berry Road, Newquay, TR7 IAD

Bankers

Nat West, 2/4 St. Nicholas Street, Truro, TR1 2RN

Solicitors

Randall Thomas, Helston

Objectives The Society exists to further the study of birds and assist in their preservation and conservation. The CBWPS publishes an annual ornithological study "Birds in Cornwall" and owns, or jointly owns, three nature reserves. Review of activities The Society continues to promote bird watching in Cornwall. Its three reserves are considered as super habitats for wildlife in general and birds in particular. This is despite unfavourable weather conditions during 2004 which prevented us carrying out all the work we had planned. The highly acclaimed annual report "Birds in Cornwall" for 2003 waCollectios publishen da ta funeras werel threof Fe Couceditionh s of the Society'£46s 1newslette r "Palores". Financially, the Society is very strong; durinCollectiog the yean ar t significanfuneral otf Mrdonations S Coucs werh e receive£15d from7 : Carr Shepherds Crosswaite (Annie's stockbroker) £2000 Tim Pascoe £175 North Cornwall Nest Box Trust £ 118

Peter Robinson's magnificent book "Birds of the Isles of Scilly" was another windfall. We contributed £500 to Robert Helms' publishing costs and they supplied us with fifty copies which we sold for £25 - half publisher's price, another benefit of membership!

193 So, the Society continues to flourish, assisted by various commercial organisations around the county. The Trustees acknowledged these valuable contributions by agreeing to provide free advertising in Society publications.

Will the Society continue to flourish? Providing there are no problems the society will continue to succeed. A vain hope, though! Life is full of problems and vandalism of hide padlocks has caused inconvenience to members and given the Trustees a headache. Our biggest issue is "management resource" and our most pressing aim is to fill the positions of Chairman and Conservation Officer. As a society, problems will continue to surface and unless we have a full complement of officers, we'll just come to a grinding halt. We can't expect our present volunteers to fill the gaps - we need new blood - NOW.

Financial Reserves Financial reserves are held in order to ensure that short term income fluctuations do not disrupt the continuity of the Society's activities. These activities are: the annual publication for members of "Birds in Cornwall" and the continuing management for conservation of our Nature Reserves (funds are held to cover one and two year's costs respectively). In addition, the Society holds funds sufficient to take advantage of future opportunities to purchase additional nature reserves. The Trustees review the financial reserves on an annual basis against this policy in the light of current circumstances.

The financial reserves at 31st December 2004 were £37,546, as shown in note 11 to the Society's accounts. The Trustees are of the opinion that this sum falls within the above policy.

Risks The Trustees of the Society constantly review the major risks to which the Charity may be exposed and procedures are adopted or adapted to mitigate those risks.

Volunteers The Society is indebted to the large band of volunteers whose enthusiasm and generosity in giving up free time to: carry out work on our reserves, lead guided walks or give illustrated talks carry out essential roles in managing the Society is critical for the ongoing success of the Society.

Bob Bridges (Treasurer) on behalf of the Trustees 24th March 2005

194 BALANCE SHEET AND ACCOUNTS

Independent Examiners' Report to the Trustees of the Cornwall Bird- Watching and Preservation Society

We report on the financial statements of the Society for the year ended 31 December 2004 which are set out below.

Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and Examiner The Charity's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The Charity's Trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section43(2) of the Charities Act 1993 [the 1993 Act]) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: examine the accounts (under section 43(3)(a) of the 1993 Act); to follow the procedures laid down in General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 43(7)(b) of the 1993 Act); and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention

Basis of Independent Examiners' Report My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Charity and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as Trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts.

Independent Examiners' Statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with Section 41 of the 1993 Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting of the 1993 Act have not been met; or to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Mrs J E Cox FCA Whitaker Redfearn Pappin Chartered Accountants Bryndon House 5/7 Berry Road Newquay Cornwall

25th March 2005

195 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004

Notes Unrestricted Restricted Total this Total Funds Funds Funds year 2002 £ £ £ £ INCOME & EXPENDITURE

Incoming Resources Membership Subscriptions 2 9,809 - 9,809 9,880 Legacies & Donations 3 3,085 - 3,085 732 Grants 4 - 745 745 - Interest Receivable 1,688 - 1,688 1,341 Rents Receivable - 526 526 526 Fundraising 5 1,175 125 1,300 508 Total Incoming Resources £15.757 £1,396 £17.153 £12.987

Resources expended Direct Charitable Expenditure Membership Support 6 7,511 - 7,511 8,137 Conservation 7 1,382 1,770 3,152 3,861 Fund raising costs 610 610 - Sub total 9,503 1,770 11,273 11,998 Management & Administration 8 224 - 224 719 Total Resources Expended £9.727 £1,770 £11.497 £12.717

NET INCOMING/(OUTGOING) RESOURCES FOR THE YEAR £6,030 (£374) £5,656 £270

Transfers between funds 10 - - - -

NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS £6,030 (£374) £5,656 £270

Funds brought forward 1 st January 61,373 9,484 70,857 70,587

FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD £67.403 £9,110 £76.513 £70.857

196 Balance Sheet at 31 December 2004

Total 2004 Total 2003 Notes £ £ £ £ FIXED ASSETS

Tangible Assets 9 £35,051 £36,041

CURRENT ASSETS Stock 350 350 Debtors & Prepayments 3,845 2,239 Cash at Bank - 4,360 Cash on short Term Deposit 41,500 35,500 45,695 42,449 CURRENT LIABILITIES Amounts falling due within 1 year Bank Overdraft 2,325 - Subscriptions in Advance 1,898 1,810 Creditors =10 5,823 4,233 7,633 NET CURRENT ASSETS £41,462 £34,816

TOTAL NET ASSETS £76.513 £70.857

REPRESENTED BY Unrestricted Fund 67,403 61,373 Restricted Fund 10 9,110 9,484 £76.513 £70.857

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004 1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES a. General The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and the Statement of Recommended Practice on Accounting by Charities. b. Depreciation Depreciation of fixed assets held for use by the charity is calculated at the following rates based on the estimated useful life of those fixed assets as follows: General equipment 10% per annum (straight line basis) Computer equipment 20% per annum (straight line basis) Hides 5% per annum (straight line basis) c. Subscriptions Subscriptions are recognised in the period to which they relate, except for subscriptions for life membership which are amortised over 15 years.

2 MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Annual Membership 8,069 - 8,069 8,442 Life Membership 244 - 244 232 Gift Aid 1,496 - 1,496 1,206 £9,809 £9,809 £9.880

197 3 LEGACIES & DONATIONS Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Total Total Legacies - - - - Donations 3,085 - 3,085 732 £3,085 £3,085 £732 =

4 GRANTS Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Total Total Environment Agency - Walmsley 745 745 - = £745 £745 =

5 FUNDRAISING Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Total Total Sale of "Birds in Cornwall" 170 - 170 204 Sale of "Birds of the Isles of Scilly" 1,047 - 1,047 - Income from meetings - - - - Sale and hire of hide keys - 125 125 102 Sale of advertising space 128 - 128 200 Advertising income written off (200) - (200) - Sale of goods 30 - 30 2 £1,175 £125 £1,300 £508

6 MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Publishing & printing "Birds in Cornwall" 3,898 - 3,898 4,080 Publishing & printing Newsletter 825 - 825 1,253 Postage on publications 1,314 - 1,314 1,402 Depreciation on computer equipment 346 - 346 379 Website and computer software 378 - 378 273 Honorarium (Hon. Recorder) 750 - 750 750 £7,511 - £7,511 £8.137

7 CONSERVATION Unrestricted Restricted 2004 2003 Funds Funds Total Total Reserve management: Walmsley Sanctuary - 450 450 868 Maer Lake Wetland - 921 921 1,439 Windmill Farm Reserve - - - 34 Walmsley Hide - - - 76 Hide insurance 368 - 368 344 Public liability insurance 377 - 377 263 Licences 247 - 247 153 Depreciation of hides 63 399 462 462 Depreciation of tools 210 - 210 222 Loss on sale of tools 117 - 117 - £1.382 £1,770 £3,152 £3.861

8 MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION 2004 2003 Postage 32 292 Stationery 76 185 Telephone 3 27 Travel 18 55 Meetings 95 132 Sundries 610 28

198 £834 £719 FIXED ASSETS Freehold Tools Computer Hides Total Land equipment Cost at 1.1.2004 28,500 3,733 3,755 9,233 45,221 Additions during year - 199 - - 199 Disposals during year - (285) - - (285)

Cost at 31.12.2004 28,500 3,647 3,755 9,233 45,135

Depreciation as at 1.1.2004 _ 2,691 3,277 3,212 9,180 Provision for year - 210 346 462 1,018 Less disposals - (114) - - (114)

Depreciation as at 31.12.2004 - 2,787 3,623 3,674 10,084

Net book value 1.1.2004 28,500 1,042 478 6,021 36,041 Net book value 31.12.2004 £28.500 £860 £132 £5,559 £35.051

RESTRICTED FUNDS Balance Incoming Balance 1.1.2004 resources Expenditure Transfers 31.12.2004 Walmsley Sanctuary 2,280 1,095 (450) - 2,925 Maer Lake Wetland 1,414 176 (921) - 503 Windmill Farm Reserve - - - - - Bird post-mortems 120 - - - 120 Walmsley Hide 77 125 - - 202 Walmsley Hide capitalised 5,593 - (399) - 5,194 £9.484 £1.396 f£1.770) - £9.110

FUNDS ALLOCATION Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds £ £ £ Fixed Assets 29,857 5,194 35,051 Net Current Assets (i) 37,546 3,916 41,462 Total Net Assets as at 31.12.2004 £67.403 £9,110 £76.513

(i) The figure of £37,546 represents Unrestricted Reserves, the policy for which is given in the Trustees' Annual Report.

12 TRUSTEES REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES 2004 2003 £ £ Expenses (i) 123 795 Remuneration (ii) 750 750

(i) These payments were for reimbursement of costs and expenses paid on behalf of the Society. (ii) Trustee remuneration is payable to the Society's Hon. Recorder. Approval to make this annual payment has been given in writing by the Charities Commission.

199 THE SOCIETY'S RULES

Rule 1. (Name) The Society shall be called "The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society".

Rule 2 (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be: a) to further the study of birds in the field; and b) to assist in their preservation and conservation

Rule 3 (Membership) Membership shall be open to anyone who supports the objects of the Society. Classes of membership shall be as follows: Ordinary members - any person over the age of 18 yrs Life members - any ordinary member who has paid the prescribed life membership subscription. Junior members - any person under the age of 18 yrs. Honorary members - any person, whether otherwise a member or not, who is elected an Honorary member by a General meeting on a recommendation of the Executive Committee in recognition of outstanding service to the objects of the Society. Group members - School or similar groups. All members shall be entitled to participate in all activities of the Society (except that Junior members shall not be eligible to serve as Honorary officers or as members of the Executive Committee) and shall be entitled to vote at General meetings (Group members shall be entitled to one vote only on behalf of that body). The Executive Committee shall have the authority to exclude from membership, or cancel the membership of, any person if it considers that person to have contravened any requirements contained in these rules or any legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or for any other matter which the Executive Committee considers offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4 (Subscriptions) Subscription rates shall be approved from time to time by the Society in General meeting on a recommendation from the Executive Committee. Subscriptions shall be payable on joining and on the 1 st of January thereafter, but any member paying a first subscription after the 30th of September in any year shall not be liable to pay a further subscription until after the close of the following year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications, and when six months in arrears shall cease to be a member.

Rule 5 (Officers) The following Honorary Officers shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and shall be eligible for re­ election: President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Field Meetings Officer, Honorary Solicitor, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officer, County Recorder, Editor of "Birds in Cornwall". Any member, with the exception of junior members, shall be eligible for election as an Honorary Officer. In the event of a vacancy arising at any time of the year, the Executive Committee shall be empowered to appoint a member to fill that vacancy and such appointment shall be reported to the next General meeting for approval or election as appropriate.

Rule 6 (Meetings) An annual general meeting shall be held in each year. The quorum shall be 20. A Special General Meeting may be called by the Executive Committee, or at the request of 20 members by application to the Chairman and the General Secretary, such applications to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

200 Rule 7 (Management) The Annual General Meeting shall elect an Executive Committee to deal with all business of the Society, and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall consist of the Honorary Officers and nine other members. The Chairman, General Secretary and Treasurer shall serve for a maximum of four consecutive years. At the end of that period, at least one year must elapse before that person shall be eligible for re-election to the same office. Non- officer members shall be elected for a period of three years and shall not on the expiry of that period be eligible for re-election until a year after the termination of that period of three years. Nominations for posts as Honorary Officers and for vacancies on the Executive Committee shall be made in writing to the General Secretary over the signatures of the proposer and seconder and must reach the General Secretary at least ten days before the date of the Annual General Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet as often as is necessary and shall be convened by the General Secretary in consultation with the Chairman. The quorum for the Executive Committee shall be eight members. The Executive Committee shall have the powers to appoint such sub-committees as it considers desirable and shall determine the membership and powers of such sub-committees, whose proceedings will be reported to the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall not delegate to any sub-committee the power to commit the Society to any expenditure. The Executive Committee shall delegate to the Management Team (comprising Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer) power to take decisions on urgent matters which cannot await the next meeting of the Committee. Decisions of the Management Team must be unanimous and shall be reported to the next meeting of the Executive Committee.

Rule 8 (Accounts)

The annual accounts of the Society shall be checked independently.

Rule 9 (Trustees)

Land of the Society shall vest in the Official Custodian of Charities.

Rule 10 (Dissolution etc.) This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the members, at a General Meeting where the business is transacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamation or subordination, prior notice must be given under rule 11. For the purpose of this Rule, Members may vote by post. Rule 11 (Alteration of rules) An alteration of the Rules of the Society may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the precise alteration has been set out in full on the agenda sent to members and that the proposed alteration is passed by at least two-thirds of those members present and voting at the meeting. No alteration of the rules that would result in a benefit being received by a member of the Executive Committee will be effective until it has been approved in writing by the Charity Commission. Rule 12 (Executive Committee Members not to be personally interested) (1) Subject to the provisions of sub-clause 2 of this rule no member of the Executive Committee shall acquire any interest in property belonging to the Society (otherwise than as a Trustee of the Society) or receive remuneration or be interested (other than as a member of the Executive Committee. (2) Any member of the Executive Committee who is for the time being acting as Recorder and Editor for the Society may receive such reasonable remuneration in connection with the work of the Recorder and Editor in compiling records of bird sightings in Cornwall and their assembly in a form for publication as shall from time to time be deemed appropriate by members of the Executive Committee: Provided that any member of the Executive Committee who is remunerated under this provision shall withdraw from any meeting at which his or her own instruction or remuneration is under discussion.

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