Ornithological Group Annual Report 2019

Once again, excellent support makes this, the 33rd Annual Report, an outstanding example of local co-operation. The 17,500 records and a range of excellent images, submitted by over 100 birders, have enabled us to publish this document. We are greatly indebted to Keith Moir, who has, once more, brought all his knowledge and expertise to the task of interpreting the data.

Amongst the dozen or so species which caught the eye during 2019 were a Caspian Gull, which arrived with a full personal history, only our second record of an Avocet, and a Great White Egret, which was seen by many who walked the -Liverpool canal. Two Arctic Skuas crossed the country in April, a Kittiwake landed at Fly Flatts, a Hooded Crow appeared in the Washburn and a Knot was seen passing Soil Hill.

These were amongst the most spectacular records, and although there was plenty of news of common birds, there was very little about their breeding habits. We therefore make a special request to include as much information as possible about this aspect of behaviour. It is something that adds considerably to the further understanding of birds and provides us all with a more in-depth knowledge of the species. The quieter summer months are an ideal time to watch and record these events.

As I explained in the last Report, the BOG website has grown to include a wealth of information which makes use of over 30 years’ data. In addition to suggesting locations to visit and species to study, there are monthly reports and articles from local birders. The 2018 Report is now available to download, and has been expanded to include the data that relates to the document. It is planned to allow access, through the website, to the data which was used to write this Report. It is hoped to have this material on the website during the summer.

MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor The common status is unchanged, and breeding successes were in line with other recent years.

WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus Still seen regularly on passage in spring and autumn, though the annual count of 235 is a little down on 2018. The highest count of 50 over Marley in November is in line with other recent years.

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE Anser brachyrhynchus A regular and perhaps now abundant passage migrant, as the annual total of about 25,600 is another record. That said, much depends on whether large movements take place when observers are about, so the big numbers don’t, in themselves, mean a lot.

GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser Though clearly remaining a common resident, numbers were down on other recent years, and 350 at Wetland was the highest tally.

Bradfordbirding.org 1 CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis A common breeding bird, whose status is clearly unchanged, with a count of 330 at Warley Moor Reservoir the best of many.

BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis Birds of unknown origin are seen annually, and up to three were noted, mainly at Warley Moor Reservoir.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE Alopochen aegyptiacus One record of this irregular possible escapee: a single at Otley Wetland on 13th May.

SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna Is now largely a passage species, with reports of up to six birds on occasion. However, successful breeding took place this year at Kex Gill Quarry.

RUDDY SHELDUCK Tadorna ferruginea This duck of uncertain status provides occasional sightings. A bird at three sites in May might have been the same one (RG, RN, WNS).

MANDARIN DUCK Aix galericulata After a significant rise in recent years, can now be described as a relatively common breeding species. Many pairs were seen, and breeding proved or suspected at three Wharfedale sites. The winter gathering of 56 in Strid Wood was much as expected.

WIGEON Anas penelope Remains common and numerous as a passage and winter visitor. Otley Wetland had several 100-plus counts, but the biggest numbers continue to be at the seasonally flooded Cononley Ings, where up to 480 were seen.

GADWALL Anas strepera Still uncommon in the recording area, despite being relatively abundant just outside it. Small numbers were seen at only six sites, with Tong Park Reservoir again producing the highest count: 16 birds in April.

TEAL Anas crecca Remains a common winter visitor and on passage, but there was a further drop in reports and numbers, with around 40 birds at Cononley the best count.

GARGANEY Anas querquedula The only record of this less than annual passage migrant was a drake at Redcar Tarn on 10th May (KM).

MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos No change in status as an abundant and successful breeding resident. Several three-figure counts of up to 200 birds were slightly better than other recent years.

Bradfordbirding.org 2 PINTAIL Anas acuta Five birds is now a typical showing for this passage migrant. They comprised singles at Leeshaw Reservoir in September (BV), Cononley Ings in October (KM), and Peel Park (Bradford) in December (RK), with two at Low Moor Nature Reserve in October (MVP).

SHOVELER Anas clypeata As a passage migrant, numbers can fluctuate, and in 2019 they were well down on the previous year, with a total count of only 15 birds.

POCHARD Aythya ferina Pochard has increasingly become very scarce, mainly as a winter visitor. Up to five birds were at Yeadon Tarn at the end of the year (PK, NP, DS), and in October singles were seen at Hewenden Reservoir (MD), and Cononley Ings (KM).

TUFTED DUCK Aythya fuligula The majority of records are of wintering birds, and numbers held up well, providing many double-figure counts of up to 70 birds. Breeding successes were limited, and on a par with 2018.

COMMON SCOTER Melanitta nigra There are usually only a few records annually, and this year’s numbers are down on 2018. Singles were at Warley Moor Reservoir on 4th June and 20th September (BS) and on 17th October (BV), and a pair was at Redcar Tarn on 9th September (KM).

GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula A common though not widespread visitor, birds were largely in single figures, with 35 at Knotford Nook in December the best of several double-figure counts from here and Otley Wetland. As in 2018, an individual remained until late into the summer.

GOOSANDER Mergus merganser Can now be described as an abundant and widespread breeding species, though without any increase in individual counts, 28 birds at Thornton Moor Reservoir being the highest tally.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Mergus serrator This scarce passage migrant provided a single at Otley Wetland between 26th and 30th December (AJ et al), and one passed Oxenhope Watchpoint on 2nd October (HC).

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa There were no significant counts and few records, but the fairly common status appears to stand.

RED GROUSE Lagopus lagopus Though reports varied, most moors seemed to have good numbers of this common resident.

Bradfordbirding.org 3 GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix Whilst a widespread resident, only small numbers are now reported, and seven birds near Redcar Tarn and eight at were the highest counts.

PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus No apparent change in the status of this common game-bird.

RED-THROATED DIVER Gavia stellata Still a scarce passage migrant, but a bird seen from Oxenhope Watchpoint on 28th October provided a record for the second successive year, and was the 11th in all (DCB, HC).

CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo May now be more than a passage migrant and winter visitor as birds were recorded throughout the year, although the biggest numbers continue to be seen in the winter months, and 42 at Otley Wetland in December was the highest of several double-figure counts.

LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta Birds continue to be seen in the same general areas as last year, but, with fewer records and a continuing concentration on a limited number of areas, it is probable birds have become less common than in other recent years. Sightings were from 14 sites in Airedale (between Shipley and Cononley Ings), six in Wharfedale (from Otley to Barden), and one in the Washburn Valley. Singles were the norm, with two birds seen only at Denton, Otley Wetland, Barden, Stockbridge, Riddlesden and Tong Park, and it is possible no more than 10 birds were involved overall.

GREAT WHITE EGRET Egretta alba Though becoming more widespread in Britain, this is still scarce in our area, and two birds this year are only the fourth and fifth records. After being found in Myrtle Park (Bingley) on 20th July (MR), a confiding bird was rediscovered on the canal near Saltaire, and provided close views between there and Apperley Bridge intermittently over the next 10 weeks (PM et al ). A further individual was photographed in flight over Low Moor on 11th November (MVP).

GREY HERON Ardea cinerea Though still a common resident, only Shipley Glen nowadays provides significant numbers, and a maximum 22 birds were seen there in October. For probably the first time ever, there were no breeding records.

WHITE STORK Ciconia ciconia A bird seen near Burley on 26th April was the first for several years (AJ). Escapes are a possibility for this species but the date could suggest a genuine vagrant.

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis The less common of the resident grebes, but a fairly widespread breeding bird. Seven birds at John o’ Gaunt’s Reservoir was the biggest gathering.

Bradfordbirding.org 4 GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus Generally maintaining its status as a common breeder, with low single figures the norm, and only two notable counts of seven and eight birds at Knotford Nook.

RED KITE Milvus milvus No change in the now abundant resident status. Multiple counts were made on many occasions, with 20 at Burley the highest. Against this background, the single record of attempted breeding becomes meaningless.

MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus Remains uncommon on passage, and the 11 individuals reported are slightly down on the past two years. Birds were mainly seen at Barden, in February, March, August and September (HC, BV, WNS), with sightings at Keighley Moor in May and September (IH), Doe Park in March (MP), Scargill Pasture in April (AJ, WNS) and Warley Moor Reservoir in July (BS).

HEN HARRIER Circus cyaneus Though maintaining its presence, remains uncommon, and most birds are seen in winter, with a few on passage. It is likely about 22 individuals were involved, at six moorland sites in Wharfedale, Airedale and the Washburn Valley (IH, AJ, JM, RN, BV, WNS).

GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis Remains very scarce, with only three records in March and April (HC). SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus An abundant resident, with many records from all our habitats. We are now down to just one breeding report, which must reflect under-recording rather than status.

COMMON BUZZARD Buteo buteo Common Buzzard is now exactly that! Birds were reported from all types of habitat right across the area, with regular counts of up to seven birds. There is nothing to suggest any change in the status as a widespread breeder, though records were patchy.

OSPREY Pandion haliaetus Remains a regular passage migrant, and this year’s 10 birds recorded is about average. March produced individuals at Barden Scale (HC, BV), followed by others in May at and Lindley Wood Reservoirs (WNS, JA et al). The latter was notable as it apparently then summered here until mid-August. Further August records came from Barden, and Otley Wetland (TK, WNS), and there were two in September from Reservoir and Barden (BV, WNS).

KESTREL Falco tinnunculus Clearly no change in the abundant status, with corresponding, but probably under-recorded, breeding successes.

MERLIN Falco columbarius Though by no means common, a good number of records produced about 30 birds throughout the year, mainly at moorland sites in Wharfedale, Airedale and the Washburn Valley. There was only one successful breeding record.

Bradfordbirding.org 5 HOBBY Falco subbuteo Birds occasionally summer, but most of the records this year are probably of passage migrants. Up to 17 individuals were reported from the Washburn Valley, Baildon Moor, and Upper and Lower Wharfedale (AJ, TK, PDP, J&ST, BV, WNS). Most records were in July and August, with a few in June and September.

PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus Peregrine is clearly now well-established, with birds seen from a variety of both rural and urban locations across the area. Successful breeding is again thought to have occurred in Keighley, but another nest at a previously used site was apparently robbed.

WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus After a surge in the number of sites in 2018, this uncommon winter visitor was reported this year only from Stockbridge, Otley Wetland, Denso Nature Reserve, Toad Holes Beck and near Leeds Bradford Airport. Three birds represented the maximum. MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus Status as a common resident breeder remains unchanged, with numbers much as last year, though no specific breeding successes were reported.

COOT Fulica atra Remains a common breeding species in the area, but the count of 90 birds seen at Knotford Nook in January was comfortably the highest.

OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus Particularly common as a spring migrant, up to 82 birds were seen at several sites across the area, the maximum at the regular stopover of . In late spring and summer, numerous pairs were reported, but there was little definite breeding evidence.

AVOCET Recurvirosta avosetta From only one record of this very scarce migrant in 1995, this year produced two records and four birds. A single was at Thornton Moor Reservoir on 4th May (CJK), and on 1st July the others flew past Warley Moor Reservoir (BS).

GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria A species which is particularly numerous in winter had the expected big flocks of between 100 and 700, mainly from Keighley, Ilkley and Middleton Moors, and Scargill Pasture. There were no breeding records.

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus The common status, both as resident and winter visitor, was evidenced by many three- figure counts of up to 950 birds, but there were none in four figures this year. Birds were evidently breeding at a few more sites than in 2018.

Bradfordbirding.org 6 LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius Though mainly recorded as a migrant these days, up to seven pairs may have attempted breeding, and young were seen in Airedale, Wharfedale and the Washburn. Around 20 passage birds were reported.

RINGED PLOVER Charadrius haticula Only four sites provided records of this migrant, but there was an impressive annual total. Most came from Warley Moor Reservoir, where 19 birds on 20th August represented the best of around 100 birds in all.

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus Though generally an annual passage bird, remains uncommon, and five records are better than average. These comprised singles past Scargill Reservoir on 25th April (AJ), at Warley Moor on 10th and 11th May and 17th July (BS), and in August over Thornton on 4th (MP).

CURLEW Numenius arquata Remains common as a resident, and on passage, but with the highest count of 300 lower than usual. There was little breeding information, but the status is probably unchanged.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa limosa A regular migrant, though generally in small numbers, so three March records are fairly typical. They comprised singles on the 19th at Silsden Ings (KM) and Otley Wetland (JA), and 24th at Cononley Ings (BV).

BAR-TAILED GODWIT Limosa lapponica A distinctly scarce migrant, not seen since 2015, a bird spent three days at Leeshaw Reservoir from 23rd April (BV).

RUFF Philomachus pugnax An average showing for this uncommon migrant, with three reports. In May singles were at Warley Moor Reservoir on the 14th (BS) and Chelker Reservoir on the 25th (BV), and one was on Cononley Ings on 17th October (KM).

KNOT Calidris canutus The first report of this uncommon migrant since 2014, a bird passed Soil Hill on 12th August (DB per BS).

SANDERLING Calidris alba The best showing for several years for this uncommon and sporadic passage migrant. Almost all the records came from Warley Moor. which had singles in May on the 7th and 19th, and in August on the 13th and 22nd, plus three on 31st May and two on 20th August (BS). Leeshaw Reservoir had a single on 8th May (HC).

Bradfordbirding.org 7 TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres Seen only on passage, and less than annual, so four records was a good return. Four birds were at Leeshaw Reservoir on 8th May (HC), and Warley Moor Reservoir had the others, all in August: singles on 7th, 10th and 12th (BS).

DUNLIN Calidris alpina Mainly a passage migrant, numbers didn’t attain the record counts of last year, but up to 48 birds were seen at Warley Moor.

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos Though a common summer migrant, 2019 appears to be one of the better years, with many double-figure counts from across the area, and another record gathering of 24 birds at Warley Moor Reservoir on 18th May (BS). The eight probable breeding records are fairly typical.

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus Despite a slight improvement in 2018, this bird remains an uncommon migrant, with only five seen. Two were at in July (per AJ), and in August singles at Warley Moor (BS) and Otley Wetland (WNS, JM).

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia Having become a very uncommon migrant, the 2018 records provided hope for better things, but this year reverted to the recent norm, and two birds on 10th May at Warley Moor, and one there on 4th August (BS) were the only records.

REDSHANK Tringa totanus Passage birds now provide most of the records. with Silsden Ings again having the highest count of 22 in March. Though still an evident breeder, the few records were mainly of territorial behaviour and display.

JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus A combination of conditions and loss of habitat further reduced the numbers of this uncommon migrant. Two were at Apperley Bridge on 17th January (KM), and one was seen from Oxenhope Watchpoint on 3rd October (DCB, HC).

WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola Remains a fairly common resident, and display flights were seen at the usual locations, though breeding wasn’t proved. Wintering birds were seen in small numbers at both ends of the year.

COMMON SNIPE Gallinago gallinago Maintains its common status, although numbers are much reliant on the totals seen on visible migration counts. Displaying birds were well-reported, but there was only one specific breeding record.

Bradfordbirding.org 8 COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo An annual summer visitor, up to two birds were seen between April and July at Yeadon Tarn and Otley Wetland, and breeding may have occurred at the latter.

ARCTIC TERN Sterna paradisaea Though numbers fluctuate, there are usually few records of this uncommon passage migrant, so the single record of a bird at Leeshaw on 27th April is the norm (BV).

ARCTIC SKUA Stercorarius parasiticus Representing only the 10th record of this scarce vagrant, two birds flew over Slippery Ford on 19th April (IH).

KITTIWAKE Rissa tridactyla One record of this uncommon passage gull: an individual at Warley Moor on 7th March (BS).

BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus Despite fewer reports, and only three counts in four figures (about 2,000 birds), there is nothing to suggest this gull is other than abundant most of the year. The large breeding colony remains at , but no specific details were forthcoming.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL Larus melanocephalus Has become an increasingly uncommon visitor, and six records follows the trend of other recent years. Singles were seen at Cullingworth Fields on 12th February, Brown Royd on 15th and 17th September (KM), Lindley Wood Reservoir on 9th July (PS per AJ), Knotford Nook on 1st and 2nd December (WNS, AJ), and near Thornton on 24th December (MP).

COMMON GULL Larus canus Remains very common, though with very few summer records. There were several notable counts of up to 2,000 birds.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus There was no evidence of birds wintering, and most are clearly on passage. The roost counts of up to 450 birds indicate little change in the common status. Successful breeding took place in a mixed colony with Herring Gulls on a Bradford warehouse roof.

HERRING GULL Larus argentatus Whilst one observer’s systematic counts ceased in August, observations up to then and subsequently, indicate no changes to this gull’s abundant status in the area. Successful breeding took place in the mixed colony referred to above.

YELLOW-LEGGED GULL Larus michahellis Though records of 63 birds confirm the species’ now common status, it should be pointed out that all the records come from the south of the area and only two observers were involved (KM, BS). Are more birds being overlooked or ignored?

Bradfordbirding.org 9 CASPIAN GULL Larus cachinnans Thanks largely to greater awareness and extensive watching, this scarce gull is now annually recorded. As in previous years, the 2019 birds were sub-adults and comprised individuals at Redcar Tarn in August on 11th and 29th (which remained sporadically for two weeks), and Brown Royd on 27th November. A further bird found at Redcar Tarn on 24th December remained until the year end. It was ringed and had been raised near Leipzig in June 2018, following which it had been seen in Lancashire later in the year, and in Northern Ireland in spring, 2019 (all KM)

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus Though still uncommon in the area, a total of about 60 birds represents a distinct improvement on other recent years.

FERAL PIGEON Columba livia Continues to be abundant, despite being under-recorded, and typical counts of up to 100 came from Bradford and Otley.

STOCK DOVE Columba oenas Is by no means common, but the species continues to be recorded across the area, and the maximum count of 39 at Cullingworth was typical of other years. There were two specific breeding records.

WOODPIGEON Columba palumbus The continuing abundant status is evidenced by the many records throughout the year, although there were only three breeding reports. Numbers seen on autumn migration were, as ever, massive, and there was a record aggregate of 125,000 birds from the main watchpoints: Oxenhope, Warley Moor and Low Moor (DCB, HC, BS, MVP).

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto With only one double-figure count (22 at Caldene Fields in August) there is reason to think that this species continues to become increasingly uncommon in the area. There was no evidence of breeding.

ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET Psittacula krameri There were no reports from at least two areas which appeared to be becoming strongholds for this uncommon resident, but the eight sites mentioned included several from Bradford, including Lister Park (Manningham), which had the largest count of 13 birds.

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Birds were seen or heard in 14 areas, mainly moorlands or their fringes, during a typically short seven week period from mid-April. Unusually, breeding was proved by the observation of a young bird being fed by a Meadow Pipit on Barden Moor (AK).

BARN OWL Tyto alba About 60 different adults were seen from right across the area (about the same as last year), confirming Barn Owl is now established as a very common resident. That only five breeding pairs were reported is almost certainly down to under-recording, rather than a genuine downturn.

Bradfordbirding.org 10 LITTLE OWL Athene noctua Reports tend to suggest something of an upturn for this already common resident. However, breeding continues to be thinly reported, with only six young seen.

TAWNY OWL Strix aluco There were fewer reports than usual and from only 26 sites. In addition, only six breeding records were forthcoming. It is probable this doesn’t represent an actual reduction in the population, but will need to be monitored.

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus The worst return for many years: five reports from just three sites, including only two apparent breeding successes. It is to be hoped this is simply under-recording; otherwise this owl has reverted to being very scarce in the area.

SHORT-EARED OWL Asio flammeus A fairly indifferent year for this owl, with numbers and reports well down on 2018. About 20 birds were seen at 11 moorland sites, and four pairs bred, with mixed results, all in the south of the area.

NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus europaeus Summering birds returned to the three well-established sites in the Washburn Valley, and the one in Wharfedale used for the first time in 2018. Eight birds were probably involved, and one pair almost certainly bred successfully.

SWIFT Apus apus No more than reasonably common this year, with only two three-figure counts of 200 arriving and departing birds, although there were several round the fifty mark. Breeding indications came from only Hewenden and Burley-in-Wharefdale.

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis Numerous records throughout the year and from across the area confirm the bird’s common status. Many pairs were seen, and breeding was reported from Bingley and Keighley.

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis There is never more than a small population in the area, but records from 30 widespread sites indicate there might be a slight upturn. Conversely, there were only two breeding records.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus major The situation appears to be as in 2018. Numerous reports came from across the area, confirming the bird’s common status and stability, but only six records of proven or probable breeding.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor There were but two reports from the only relatively reliable site in the Washburn Valley (AJ).

Bradfordbirding.org 11 MAGPIE Pica pica Evidently still a widespread and abundant resident though few double-figure parties were reported, and no roosts. An improvement on 2018, there were a few reports of definite or probable breeding.

JAY Garrulus glanarius A common resident, widely reported in small numbers. Pairs were mentioned, but with no breeding data.

JACKDAW Corvus monedula Though a common resident, the biggest numbers are of wintering birds and autumn migrants, and there were several flocks of up to 400 birds. Only one breeding colony was reported.

ROOK Corvus frugilegus There were few reports of this common species, and the highest counts were in the seventies. Six occupied rookeries were reported, and adults were seen with young.

HOODED CROW Corvus cornix A welcome report of a scarce vagrant not seen since 1995, one was seen near Lindley Wood Reservoir on 8th February (PR). The third Group record.

CARRION CROW Corvus corone The records received don’t indicate any change in the common resident status. Successful breeding undoubtedly occurred, but was reported only from Riddlesden.

RAVEN Corvus corax Is now clearly a relatively common and widespread resident, and as many as nine birds were seen together on occasion. Though display was noted and possible family parties, there was no evidence of breeding this year.

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus Is predominantly a migrant and winter visitor to the area, confirmed by only four records in the summer months. The remaining reports failed to produce gatherings of more than 15 birds (at Ogden Reservoir in October), and there were no breeding records. BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus Still well-recorded and clearly abundant; as many as 45 birds were recorded in Strid Wood. The numerous breeding records are confirmation of this status.

GREAT TIT Parus major The status is much the same as Blue Tit, though a winter count of 20 birds was the highest reported and the nine breeding records are probably much understated.

COAL TIT Parus ater A tit species which tends to be seen in small numbers, but still evidently common, despite an absence of breeding records.

Bradfordbirding.org 12 WILLOW TIT Parus montanus The decline of this scarce resident continues both locally and nationally, so a bird at Otley Wetland on 24th December was welcome (AJ). Only the second record in six years.

SKY LARK Alauda arvensis Resident birds provided less than half of the records, which might indicate a less than stable population, especially as specific breeding wasn’t reported. Around 360 birds were seen on migration.

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia A reasonable year had six counts of between 50 and 100 birds, but, disappointingly, there was just one report of birds at a breeding colony.

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica Clearly still very common, but, as usual, the biggest numbers came from autumn migration reports, with around 5,600, much as last year. Only four breeding records probably reflects the general downturn in reports under this heading.

HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica Remains a fairly common summer resident, and reasonably well-reported, but the majority of records refer to visible migration watches. Aside from these, there were few three-figure counts, so 500 birds at Keighley Moor Reservoir in August were notable. A further reduction in breeding information produced only five reports.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalus caudatus Remains common, and a flock of 35 birds at Redcar Tarn was notable. As with many other common species, breeding was clearly under-recorded, as typified by just two reports.

WOOD WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix Remains uncommon and local, although there were reports from Shipley Glen and Otley Chevin Park, in addition to the regular spots of Strid Wood, Heber’s Ghyll and Cottingley Woods. Several pairs were probably present at most of them, but no breeding was reported.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita Clearly abundant on passage, particularly in spring, though there were fewer reports for the summer months. Probable wintering birds were seen at seven sites. The two breeding records probably understate the true position.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER Phylloscopus inornatus The record total for this scarce vagrant increases to five, following one being trapped and ringed at Ings on 12th October (JM).

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus Remains an abundant summer resident, and site totals of up to 13 birds were regular. However, the six breeding records are likely to be an understatement.

Bradfordbirding.org 13 BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla A common summer visitor, with some sites having regular counts of between seven and ten birds. There were also a few more wintering records, and a slightly improved tally of six breeding reports.

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin A species which can’t be described as common, as passage sightings appear to outnumber those of summer residents. In this context, the absence of breeding records is unsurprising.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca In another reasonable showing, this uncommon summer migrant was reported from Yeadon (DS), three sites near Low Moor (Bradford) (MVP) and two near Guiseley (RW, WNS). Breeding almost certainly occurred at Guiseley and Low Moor.

WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis The status as a common summer visitor is unchanged. Nine breeding records was an improvement on other recent years.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia After 2018’s remarkable numbers, a considerably reduced showing for this generally uncommon migrant. Individuals were seen or heard on Denton Moor (AJ), Sandwith Moor (WNS), Denholme Clough (MD), Oxenhope Watchpoint (DCB) and two Baildon Moor sites, where birds also bred (PK, JM, SR).

SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus An increasingly scarce summer visitor, which was limited to 11 records from Otley Wetland, Stockbridge, Esholt, Menston, Knotford Nook and Denholme Clough. No breeding was reported.

REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus An established migrant breeder, and whilst Otley Wetland is the predominant location, this year records also came from Stockbridge, Menston and Denso Reserve (Baildon). Birds almost certainly bred successfully again at the Otley site.

WAXWING Bombycilla garrulus An irregular winter visitor that often occurs in large numbers, this year produced modest numbers in a minor influx. In the first part of the year up to 33 birds were seen in Guiseley, Menston, Keighley and Bingley, with single figures in Thackley, Tong Park, Wilsden and over Denton Moor. The second winter period had ones and twos in Ilkley and Keighley, and near Oxenhope and Timble Ings.

NUTHATCH Sitta europaea A well-established resident, with nothing in the reports suggesting any change in status. The few breeding reports reflect the general under-recording already mentioned.

Bradfordbirding.org 14 TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris With only one breeding record, and fewer reports generally, it is difficult to draw any conclusions, but the fairly common status is probably maintained.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE Lanius excubitor Scarce on passage, and usually present for a few days at most, two birds were seen this year. One was in the Sandwith Moor area between 11th and 14th April (AJ, MB), and another near Blubberhouses on 2nd November (PDP et al). What may have been the same bird was then seen at Sandwith Moor four days later (AJ).

WREN Troglodytes troglodytes Commonly seen and well-reported from right across the area, and up to 12 birds could be occasionally seen at a few locations. A small number of records indicated probable breeding.

STARLING Sturnus vulgaris Though a resident, the flocks of migrants, and wintering birds produce the most spectacular numbers. In the early months, the pick of these were 1,000 at Leeshaw and 5,000 on Barden Fell. Autumn migration counts totalled a considerable 17,000, including over 4,500 past Oxenhope on 30th October. Post-breeding flocks were much mentioned, but breeding wasn’t: only two probable records.

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus A common resident, which is now producing more records away from the usual main areas of Wharfedale and the Washburn. Breeding status was much as 2018, with it proved or suspected at four locations in Wharfedale and Airedale, involving some seven pairs.

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus Apart from one successful breeding record from Wharfedale, the remaining reports were, as usual, of passage birds. These produced a fairly average total of about 34, mostly from the moors of Wharfedale and Airedale.

BLACKBIRD Turdus merula Despite only nine reports of probable breeding, there was a considerable number of records, including 23 double-figure counts. Clearly, remains very common.

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris Remains much more common as a passage migrant than a winter visitor. The former produced an autumn total of about 30,000 birds at the principal watchpoints, whereas the total of only nine three-figure counts elsewhere (maximum 200 birds) was well down on other years.

SONG THRUSH Turdus philomelos Still in evidence as a resident, with no apparent change in status, though with only four apparent breeding records. Birds were regularly seen on autumn migration, though not in the volume of other thrushes.

Bradfordbirding.org 15 REDWING Turdus iliacus An impressive autumn migration count of around 44,000 (mainly from Oxenhope and Low Moor) contributed most of the year’s total, and the numbers of wintering birds elsewhere were less notable.

MISTLE THRUSH Turdus viscivorus Whilst nominally a resident breeder, there were only six such records, and, as with some other thrushes, most observations and numbers were on migration. These totalled about 570 birds, whilst the few post-breeding flocks didn’t top 24.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata Never a common migrant breeder, there was only one breeding record from Strid Wood, and one each from Baildon Moor and Stainburn Forest. Most of the other reports appear to refer to passage birds at several locations in Airedale and the Washburn Valley.

ROBIN Erithacus rubecula Clearly remains abundant, with numbers similar to other recent years, as are the 11 breeding records.

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca Although, in recent years, this bird has become a common breeding summer visitor, this year’s records don’t reflect this. Up to 13 birds in Strid Wood produced only one breeding record, and the only other specific information came from Timble village, Low Wood (Riddlesden) (one pair at both), and Folly Hall Wood (eight pairs). The extensive information previously provided has clearly dried up, but there is nothing to suggest a crash in the breeding population.

REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus This reasonably common summer resident produced many records from Wharfedale, and others from apparent passage birds elsewhere. Just two breeding reports: from the Washburn Valley and Baildon Moor.

BLACK REDSTART Phoenicurus ochruros Has become a fairly regular, though scarce migrant, and there were three records. A bird was at Thornton Moor Reservoir on 6th April (CJK), one was near Warley Moor Reservoir on 23rd July (BS), and what might have been the same bird spent between 4th September and 6th October in the area (BS et al).

WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra Is never common in the area, and most of the relatively few records clearly referred to passage birds. Most notable was a bird near Warley Moor on 28th March, jointly, with a bird in 1996, the earliest on record (BS). Whilst several juveniles were seen with adults, these were quite late in the season, and there was no evidence of local breeding.

STONECHAT Saxicola torquata Numbers have shown marked fluctuations in recent years, but the species’ current common status has been maintained, with more birds seen than in 2018. Though breeding

Bradfordbirding.org 16 successes weren’t up to some past years, reports from 14 sites also showed a distinct improvement on last year.

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe A passage migrant, sometimes seen in dramatic numbers, this year’s totals were about 400 in both spring and autumn, well above average. These included several double-figure counts of up to 20 birds in both periods. Not a regular breeder, so successes near Barden and Warley Moor were notable.

DUNNOCK Prunella modularis Abundant and ubiquitous, with gardens featuring prominently. Around five breeding records is similar to 2018.

HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Many counts of up to 35 birds from across the area indicate the species’ stability, despite only one suggestion of breeding.

TREE SPARROW Passer montanus Despite the absence of information from one previously productive source, the species probably remains fairly common. Most records relate to Wharfedale and the Washburn Valley, from where the maximum count of 31 birds was made, but birds are increasingly reported from Airedale, including good numbers on Baildon Moor. There was no breeding data, however.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava A welcome increase in records for this now uncommon migrant produced one in Silsden on 22nd April (JM), and two on the 26th on Baildon Moor (PK), followed by another at Otley Wetland on 3rd May (JM). Birds on autumn migration provided a single at Warley Moor Reservoir on 20th August (BS), a total of five from Oxenhope Watchpoint (DCB, HC) and one from Low Moor (MP) in September, and another Silsden bird on 2nd October (JM).

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea A better year included getting on for 200 birds seen during autumn migration watches, and up to 10 birds at Dowley Gap Treatment Works in both winter periods. However, these numbers were offset by only one breeding report.

PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla alba Though a common resident, wintering birds and autumn migrants provide the biggest numbers. High Royds (Menston) had the highest count of 200 in November, and Dowley Gap at least 100 early and late in the year. Autumn migration produced nearly 800 birds. However, there were only two breeding records. Birds showing characteristics of the nominate White Wagtail (m.a.alba) were seen in April at Keighley Moor on 13th (JL) and 22nd (IH), Middleton Moor on 13th (AJ), and Thornton Moor on 30th (CJK).

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis Remains an uncommon summer visitor, with most birds found in the Washburn Valley, although a few other presumed passage birds were seen elsewhere. Reports of successful breeding came only from Sandwith Moor Plantation.

Bradfordbirding.org 17 MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis The records suggest this bird remains a common resident, but, not for the first time, this was largely unsupported by breeding data, there being reports only from Baildon Moor and Keighley Moor. Autumn migration watches continue to produce prolific numbers: this year’s total, mainly from Low Moor and Oxenhope Watchpoints, was a staggering 28,600 (DCB, HC, MVP).

CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs The many records of this common resident included several sizeable flocks, with 100 in November the highest. As usual, the biggest aggregates were on autumn migration, when at least 2,400 birds were seen. A non-specific reference to breeding in Oakworth was the sole record.

BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla Numbers of this winter visitor fluctuate considerably, and, though birds were well-reported in both winter periods, the largest party was no more than 11 birds. This was also reflected in the low numbers seen on migration.

GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris Appears to be maintaining its relatively common status but with scant evidence of breeding.

GOLDFINCH Carduelis carduelis Remains a common resident and abundant migrant, with the improvement referred to in 2018 having proceeded strongly. Sixty parties of double figures and above were reported, most notably about 400 near Thornton Moor Reservoir in September. A considerable 5,000 birds were seen on passage. Three breeding records were about the norm.

SISKIN Carduelis spinus Though a resident, there were few records from the summer months, and (aside from migration movements) most reports were up to April and from mid-November. The bigger counts included 90 in January at Otley Wetland, and 100 at Leathley in November. The visible migration total was about 430, in line with last year.

LINNET Carduelis cannabina As a resident and wintering bird, Linnet is now generally recorded in low numbers, rather than the big flocks of some years ago, and only 40 at Redcar Tarn in September topped 15 birds. Visible migration counts totalled about 300. More positively, there was one possible and one definite breeding record.

TWITE Carduelis flavirostris This very scarce former resident is now reduced to two records: three birds at Warley Moor Reservoir on 27th October and 11th November (BS).

LESSER REDPOLL Carduelis cabaret The few winter records included six parties of between 10 and 60, and these were supplemented by autumn reports of presumed migrants. Over 100 birds were seen in Stainburn Forest in October, and 60 passed the migration watchpoints.

Bradfordbirding.org 18 CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra Essentially a winter visitor, the handful of May and June records produced only a few birds compared to several double-figure counts of up to 20 in both winter periods. Last year’s increase in reports away from the Washburn Valley didn’t persist, and most of 2019’s records came from there (principally Stainburn Forest and Timble Ings), with only the odd sighting from St. Ives and near Bolton Abbey, and a few visible migration reports.

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula There were many reports of this resident whose fortunes have fluctuated over the years, and the improvement mentioned in 2018 seems to have been maintained. Visible migration watches at Low Moor produced between 10 and 22 birds on several days, and 10 were at Horton Country Park (Bradford) in January. Around six breeding records showed a similarly improved picture.

SNOW BUNTING Plectrophenax nivalis Now no more than an uncommon passage species, with the expected few records. In October, singles were at Middleton Moor on 12th (AJ) and Oxenhope Watchpoint on 27th, and three passed there the next day (DCB, HC).

YELLOWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella This bird, the scarcest Group resident passerine, managed just two records: one at Weston on 12th May, and two there on the 19th (WNS).

REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus Well-reported throughout the year, and a roost of over 60 birds at Otley Wetland on 24th December was a Group record (AJ). Breeding almost certainly occurred on and near Baildon Moor Escaped or Released Species

BLACK SWAN Cygnus atratus A bird was on the canal near Calverley Bridge

BAR-HEADED GOOSE Anser indicus Two were seen at Otley Wetland and Redcar Tarn, and a single at Warley Moor Reservoir.

CHESTNUT TEAL Anas castanea A pair frequented Toad Holes Beck.

HARRIS’S HAWK Parabuteo unicinctus What was probably the same bird was seen on several occasions at Goit Stock (Harden), Shipley Glen and Haworth.

REEVES’ PHEASANT Syrmaticus reevesii A pair was reported from Oakworth.

Bradfordbirding.org 19 Contributors

This list includes those who submitted more than five records, a record of significance or a photograph which depicted an interesting sighting.

Keith Allen (KA) Jon Middleton (JM) John Armstrong (JA) Keith Moir (KM) Dave Barker (DCB) Roger Nelson (RN) Dean Beswick Steve Parkes Mike Bloomfield (MB) PD & JB Parkin (PDP) Dan Branch (DB) Damian Pearson Jamie Brass John Preshaw John Brooks Martin Rawnsley (MR) Richard Butler Mark Pearson (MP) Calderdale Birders (CB) Martyn Priestley (MVP) Howard Creber (HC) Nigel Priestley (NP) Mark Doveston (MD) Shaun Radcliffe (SR) Penny French Pete Riley (PR) Richard Greenwood (RG) Peter Rollins Ian Hargreaves (IH) Darren Sheppard (DS) Bryce Henderson Paul Singleton (PS) Andy Jowett (AJ) Maria Steward Theo Keuchel (TK) Martin Stone Chris King (CJK) Brian Sumner (BS) Paul King (PK) Dave Sutcliffe (DS) Richard King (RK) Jeremy & Sara Taylor (J&ST) Andrew Kelly (AK) Alan Tremethick Joy Leach (JL) Brian Vickers (BV) Paul Marfell (PM) Steve Warrilow Phil Matthews Roger Wilkinson (RW) Steve Meredith Wharfedale Naturalists’ Society (WNS)

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