UK Bird Sightings
A comprehensive round-up of birds seen in the UK during July
AVON
CLEVEDON TO WESTON-SUPER-MARE: Shelduck counts dropped rapidly as most adults left for their moulting grounds. At Clevedon-Yeo, a few Whimbrels were well outnumbered by over 100 returning Curlews. Other waders there included seven Knot, 11 Black-tailed Godwits, seven Common Sandpipers, 240 Dunlin and 210 Redshanks. Black-headed Gulls increased to 550, with a Yellow-legged Gull (14th). A probable Arctic Skua was at Clevedon (6th). Clevedon-Yeo logged 22 Little Egrets and two Great White Egrets. Sand Point had four Yellow Wagtails and a Tree Pipit (26th).
SEVERNSIDE: Northwick Warth had four Wigeon and two Black-winged Stilts (1st), Avocets, Little Ringed Plovers, 80 Black-tailed Godwits, two Knot, a Whimbrel, Ruff, 10 Turnstones, 155 Dunlin, 150 Redshanks, two Wood Sandpipers (from 23rd), a Blue-headed Wagtail and five Yellow Wagtails. Oldbury had three Whimbrels, 1,200 Black-headed Gulls, a Yellow-legged Gull (22nd), Mediterranean Gull, two Common Terns, a Redstart, Wheatear, Yellow Wagtails and two Siskins. Two Mediterranean Gulls were at New Passage. There were 675 Black-headed Gulls at Portbury Docks.
THE RESERVOIRS: Chew held five Garganeys, 35 Teal, two Goosanders, seven Goldeneyes, 910 Tufted Ducks, 125 Gadwall, 845 Mallards, 230 Great Crested Grebes, 2,345 Coot, 17 Black-tailed Godwits, a Ruff (27th), Wood Sandpiper, 10 Common Sandpipers, 14 Green Sandpipers, nine Great White Egrets, 10 Little Egrets, a Bittern (8th), Cattle Egret (from 22nd), 18 Great Black-backed Gulls, Mediterranean Gulls, Yellow-legged Gulls, a Sandwich Tern (29th), Black Tern (24th) and two Common Terns.
Blagdon had two Black Terns (17th). Barrow Gurney had a Common Tern and Arctic Tern (25th). Marsh Harriers, Red Kites and Hobbies were seen frequently at all the reservoirs.
OTHER SITES: The Marshfield area held 10 Quails. Nightjars were at Burrington Coombe. Swifts started moving off in flocks of up to 100. Saltford twice had a Whimbrel, also a Red Kite and Hobby. Mediterranean Gulls were there and at Bristol Airport. A White Stork flew over Yatton (18th). A Great White Egret was at Nailsea Moor (31st). Chipping Sodbury Common started logging Redstarts and Whinchats. Two Crossbills were at Lawrence Weston, Bristol (9th). Jane Cumming few Glossy Ibises were at La Coupe (2nd). Common Scoters and 1,000 Sandwich Terns were in Grouville Bay, the latter chased by Arctic and Great Skuas. Puffins and Razorbills were near Little Seymour. Common Terns bred on the Ecrehous, rearing 30 young. Four Purple Sandpipers were also there. Little Terns were in Grouville Bay, with two Black Terns and a possible Gull-billed Tern.
Six Roseate Terns bred on Chausey islets. An Osprey was on the north coast (14th). A Honey Buzzard flew over Noirmont (21st). Black Redstarts were in Grouville and at Le Pulec. The Wetlands Centre had Green, Wood and Common Sandpipers, with hundreds of Sedge Warblers, Reed Warblers, Grasshopper Warblers, Garden Warblers and Willow Warblers moving through at the end of the month. Dozens of Crossbills were in the south of the island. Bertram Bree
CORNWALL
HIGHLIGHTS: A Rose-coloured Starling was in a garden at Goldsithney (5th-9th), with others at St Austell (14th) and Maer Lake NR (14th). A Western Bonelli’s Warbler was at Kenidjack Valley (23rd-25th). A male Common Rosefinch was at Porthgwarra (9th); a Balearic Shearwater went past the same day. Porthgwarra also had a first-summer Long-tailed Skua past (11th), a female Red-backed Shrike (14th), a Melodious Warbler (21st), and a Cory’s Shearwater, 26 Balearic Shearwaters and a Sooty Shearwater (29th). A Common Rosefinch was at St Just in Roseland (4th), with another at Falmouth (20th).
Bee-eater sightings came from Nanquidno Valley and Sennen Cove (17th), Gwennap (21st) and Gunwalloe (22nd). Two Honey Buzzards were over Penzance (12th), and a Black Kite was over Tresmeer (15th). A Cory’s Shearwater, four Balearic Shearwaters and two Sooty Shearwaters flew past Pendeen (28th), with a Wilson’s Storm Petrel past (29th).
DEVON
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Balearic Shearwaters flew past Start Point (3rd), with singles (6th & 30th). Two were off Brixham (18th). Dawlish Warren had a Great Northern Diver (3rd & 11th), three Roseate Terns (5th), a Roseate Tern and Arctic Tern (10th), two Roseate Terns (11th-12th & 29th) and a Pomarine Skua (11th). Exminster Marshes had two Wood Sandpipers (5th-7th). Roseate Terns were at Exmouth (9th-10th) and Slapton Sands (30th). A Long-tailed Skua was in Lyme Bay (10th).
Thirty Balearic Shearwaters and a Pomarine Skua flew past Berry Head (8th). Two Cory’s Shearwaters flew past Beer Head (6th). A Melodious Warbler was at the Plym Estuary (11th). West Charleton Marsh had a Cattle Egret (19th) and two Wood Sandpipers (25th). Seaton Marshes had a Wood Sandpiper (19th & 25th-31st) and two Cattle Egrets (27th). An Osprey was at Stoke Gabriel (25th). A Wood Sandpiper was at Soar (26th). A Black-winged Stilt was at Velator, Wrafton (29th-30th).
ISLES OF SCILLY
golf course (to 7th). The long-staying Iceland Gull was last seen at Telegraph (21st), with the St Martin’s bird leaving at a similar time. Mediterranean Gulls peaked at 14 (28th). A dark-bellied Brent Goose, first seen on Tresco, spent most of the month on Bryher before moving to Tresco and then St Mary’s later in the month. A Rose-coloured Starling at Carn Friars (3rd) was the first of several seen, with three on St Mary’s and three on St Martins by mid-month.
A Golden Oriole was at Higher Town, St Martin’s (10th). The summering Eider was near Guther’s Island (10th). The first returning Wheatear was on St Martin’s (11th). A Mistle Thrush was at Telegraph (12th), when a Long-tailed Skua, Sooty Shearwater and a Balearic Shearwater were south of the islands. Five Crossbills flew over Tresco, a Hobby was on Tresco and a Cuckoo on St Agnes (16th). A few Yellow-legged Gulls were noted from mid-month, mostly on Tresco.
A Green Sandpiper was on Tresco (19th). A Cuckoo was on St Martin’s and a Hobby on Tresco (23rd). A Green Sandpiper and three Wood Sandpiper were on Tresco and a Wood Sandpiper on Porth Hellick (27th). The first migrant Water Rail was at Porth Hellick (27th). Six Wilson’s Petrels, 100 Storm Petrels and a Sooty Shearwater were south of the islands (30th). Three Crossbills were over Telegraph and another at Porth Hellick Down (31st). That evening saw 12 Wilson’s Petrels, a Great Skua and 15 Storm Petrels south of the islands. Will Wagstaff
WILTSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: Langford Lakes had a Red-footed Falcon for ten days, an Osprey, Knot, Marsh Harrier, Shoveler, Cuckoo, Green Sandpipers and Common Sandpipers. A Crane was at Melksham. A Wood Warbler was at Stoford. A Black Tern, and returning Wigeon and Oystercatchers were at the Water Park. Quails were at SPTA(C) and SPTA(E), Avebury, Yatesbury and Windmill Hill. Wheatears were at Avebury and SPTA(C). The first Yellow-legged Gulls of the autumn were at Shrewton. Rob Turner
BEDFORDSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: An Alpine Swift was at Broom GP (5th), with a Garganey there (10th).
Robin Chittenden. For the latest bird news please phone 09068 700 245. Calls to 09068 700 245 from a landline or mobile phone cost 65p per minute plus your phone company access charge. Service provided by Birdline East Anglia.
For enquiries please call 0330 333 6946 or 07941 333 970. www.birdlineeastanglia.co.uk twitter.com/BirdlineEAnglia facebook.com/robinchittenden7
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Great White Egret was on the Wendover Canal for most of the month and at Weston Turville Reservoir (17th). A Ruddy Shelduck was at FFNR (26th). A Honey Buzzard flew over Great Brickhill (26th). Marsh Harriers were at Linford Reserve (23rd) and Gallows Bridge Farm (24th). Wood Sandpipers were at Little Marlow GP and FFNR (31st). A Caspian Gull (22nd) and Ruff (24th) were at Little Marlow GP. A White-tailed Eagle, from the Isle of Wight reintroduction scheme, was satellite-tracked into the county several times mid-month, but was not actually seen by anyone!
DORNEY COMMON: There were two Black-tailed Godwits (5th), with one (10th & 12th), a Greenshank (3rd & 7th), Snipe (18th), and two Mediterranean Gulls (3rd), with singletons (6th & 27th).
LITTLE MARLOW GP: There were three Black-tailed Godwits (15th & 22nd), a Mediterranean Gull (3rd, 22nd & 24th), Yellow-legged Gulls (21st & 22nd) and a Whimbrel (30th).
OTHER SITES: A Grey Partridge was at Gallows Bridge (9th), with three at Ravenstone Mill (12th). A flock of 25 Golden Plovers flew over Marsh Gibbon (6th). A Black-tailed Godwit was at College Lake (18th), with three at Eythrope (10th) and five at Linford Reserve (21st). Yellow-legged Gulls were at Tattenhoe Park (13th) and Caldecotte Lake (27th). Up to four Redstarts were at Rowsham (from 11th), with another at Lodge Hill (20th). A Whinchat was at Gallows Bridge Farm (4th).
A Stonechat was at Wapseys Wood WDS (2nd & 10th). The first returning Wheatears were at Rowsham (11th) and Wycombe Heights GC (27th). Four Grasshopper Warblers were at Olney. A Tree Sparrow was at Little Linford Wood (26th). A Curlew was at Willen Lake North (13th). Jo Orchard (www.bucksbirdclub.co.uk)
HAMPSHIRE
BLASHFORD LAKES: Highlights from Ibsley Water were a Black-necked Grebe (from 19th), Common Scoter (20th) and a Ruddy Shelduck of unknown origin (4th & 19th-31st). Passage waders included a Black-tailed Godwit (31st), Turnstone (30th), Ruff (19th), Dunlin (30th-31st) and four Common Sandpipers. A Redstart at Ivy Lake (12th) was unusual.
LANGSTONE HARBOUR: Farlington Marshes had its second Stone-curlew of the year (15th), a Ruff (8th), Spotted Redshank (2nd-15th), Green and Common Sandpipers, a Greenshank, Snipe, Little Gull (14th), Whinchat (9th) and two
Wheatears (29th). Six Cattle Egrets were in the Warblington area. Hayling Island had a Roseate Tern (25th), Yellow Wagtail, Wheatear and Grasshopper Warbler.
LYMINGTON-HURST: The Keyhaven/ Pennington area had a Temminck’s Stint (19th-21st), three Little Stints, a Wood Sandpiper (11th-12th), with two (16th-17th), a Great White Egret, two pale-bellied Brent Geese, five dark-bellied Brents, 34 Eiders, and eight Common Scoters (12th). A Roseate Tern was at Sturt Pond (17th). Milford-on-Sea had six Common Scoters, an Arctic Skua and three Fulmars (6th) and a Balearic Shearwater (30th).
TITCHFIELD HAVEN-WARSASH: Common Terns at Hill Head peaked at 300, among which were three Roseate Terns, two Black Terns and two Arctic Terns. There was a Temminck’s Stint (18th), two Wood Sandpipers (7th & 24th-26th), a Spotted Redshank (10th) and Little Gull (22nd-25th). A Wood Sandpiper was at the Bridge Street floods (30th-31st). Hook-withWarsash had two Wood Sandpipers (27th) and a Cattle Egret (1st). A Great White Egret flew over Stubbington (15th).
OTHER SITES: A Black Guillemot was at Barton-on-Sea (19th-23rd). A Red-footed Falcon was at Furzey Lodge in the New Forest (16th). In Southampton Water, a Little Gull was regular between Weston Shore and the Hamble, with the former also attracting a Roseate Tern (3rd). Fishlake Meadows had three Great White Egrets and an Osprey. A Great White Egret was at Abbotstone (10th). Fourteen Spoonbills were at Inchmery (15th). The Pink-footed Goose remained at Fleet Pond. A Wood Sandpiper was at Burnt Common (31st). Quails were at Kings Somborne (14th) and Colemore (28th). Tom Jordan
HERTFORDSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Hoopoe was at Little Gaddesden (24th). Wood Sandpipers were at Coopers Green GP (1st-4th) and Amwell (16th). Two Black-necked Grebes were at Tyttenhanger GP (4th). A Garganey was at Coopers Green GP (1st), with four at Wilstone Reservoir (25th-28th) and one at Rye Meads (27th-28th). A Goshawk was over Moneyhill (25th). Ospreys flew over Oxhey (8th) and Welwyn (23rd).
Robin Chittenden. For the latest bird news please phone 09068 700 245. Calls to 09068 700 245 from a landline or mobile phone cost 65p per minute plus your phone company access charge. Service provided by Birdline East Anglia.
For enquiries please call 0330 333 6946 or 07941 333 970. www.birdlineeastanglia.co.uk twitter.com/BirdlineEAnglia facebook.com/robinchittenden7
KENT
HIGHLIGHTS: A Black Stork was around Worth Marsh (9th), Minster (13th), Dover and Hawkinge (15th), Stonar Lake (16th), Langdon Cliffs (17th),
Folkestone (15th & 17th) and Ash Level (16th-17th). The returning Bonaparte’s Gull was at Oare Marshes (from 16th), with 28 Whimbrels there (19th), and a Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint (31st). A Gull-billed Tern was at Chartham (22nd). Nine Bee-eaters were at Sandwich Bay (1st). Honey Buzzards were at Ramsgate (1st), Sandwich Bay (9th), South Foreland (13th), Ash (16th) and Samphire Hoe CP (19th). Dungeness RSPB had a Glossy Ibis (2nd & 9th). Dungeness NNR had a Serin (15th). A Glossy Ibis was at Bough Beech Reservoir (9th-16th). A Golden Oriole sang at Northward Hill (16th).
LONDON
HIGHLIGHTS: Black Redstarts were at Finsbury Park, Fitzrovia and Shoreditch (2nd), Stratford (6th, 16th & 24th) and Hackney (10th). Black-necked Grebes were at Wanstead (five dates) and Wood Green (8th). A Scaup was at Walthamstow (2nd) and Lockwood Reservoir (3rd). Caspian Gulls were at Hackbridge (10th, 25th & 31st) and Walthamstow (27th). Yellow-legged Gulls were at Erith Pier (4th) and Rotherhithe (19th). A Mediterranean Gull was at Erith Pier (2nd). A Black Tern was at Brent (3rd). Sandwich Terns were at Barnes (17th) and Charlton (19th). There was a Ruddy Shelduck at Brentford (4th) and Chiswick (11th). A Common Scoter was at King George’s Reservoir (16th). Garganeys were at Wanstead (14th) and Barnes (26th & 28th-29th). A Peregrine was at Elephant and Castle (5th), with two in the City (31st). A Quail was at Sanderstead (9th). A Black-tailed Godwit was at Hackbridge (16th). A Whinchat was at Barnes (27th & 29th). A Wood Sandpiper was at Hackbridge (28th). Matthew Rowell
SURREY
HIGHLIGHTS: Up to eight Hawfinches were at Dick Focks Common, Effingham Forest (3rd). A Black Redstart was at Thursley Common (20th). Tice’s Meadow held Wood Sandpipers (23rd & 31st), two Arctic Terns (30th) and a possible Little Stint (31st).
SUSSEX
EAST SUSSEX: Rye Harbour had a Black Stork (15th), a pair of Black-winged Stilts with a fledged chick (9th), a Black-necked Grebe (4th), and a Black Tern and a Spoonbill (18th). A Quail sang at Horse Eye Level (6th). Black Redstarts were at Newhaven (7th) and Seaford Head (11th). A Red-backed Shrike was at Iford (1st). A Yellow-legged Gull was at West Rise Marsh (4th), with two at Birling Gap (10th). A Garganey was at Weir Wood Reservoir (23rd). A Hooded Crow was at Polegate (13th & 22nd-27th), with it, or another, at Hailsham (16th).
WEST SUSSEX: A White-tailed Eagle, from the Isle of Wight release scheme, was at Amberley Wild Brooks (5th-7th & 19th-21st). Glossy Ibises were at Pagham Harbour (10th-13th) and Selsey Bill (12th). A Kentish Plover was at Church Norton (16th).
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Purple Heron flew over Kingfishers Bridge (17th). A Glossy Ibis was there (18th), with it, or another, at Somersham GP (28th & 31st). A White Stork flew over Wicken Fen (26th). A Hoopoe was at Wisbech (20th). A Redstart was at Wistow (8th). Grafham Water had a Common Scoter (5th), Black-necked Grebe (13th) and Little Tern (20th). A Spoonbill was at the Cam Washes (18th) and Ouse Washes (21st & 23rd).
Robin Chittenden. For the latest bird news please phone 09068 700 245. Calls to 09068 700 245 from a landline or mobile phone cost 65p per minute plus your phone company access charge. Service provided by Birdline East Anglia.
For enquiries please call 0330 333 6946 or 07941 333 970. www.birdlineeastanglia.co.uk twitter.com/BirdlineEAnglia facebook.com/robinchittenden7
ESSEX
FRINTON-ON-SEA: Maxima included a few Teal, the occasional Gannet and Kittiwake, a Fulmar, 1,403 Black-headed Gulls, 22 Med Gulls, a Lesser Redpoll, 167 Common Scoters, juvenile Sandwich and Common Terns, an Arctic Skua, 71 Shelducks, 82 Sanderling, 207 Oystercatchers, 45 Whimbrels, 11,960 Swifts, 208 Sand Martins and 65 Swallows.
METROPOLITAN ESSEX: Wanstead Flats had a Black-necked Grebe and Whinchat. Dunlin, Common Sandpipers and two Common Scoters were on the King George V. Walthamstow Wetlands had five Black-tailed Godwits, a Dunlin, Whimbrel, Black necked Grebe and two Sandwich Terns. There were Common and Green Sandpipers in the Ingrebourne Valley and at Dagenham Chase, where there were also two Black-tailed Godwits. A Curlew flew over North Ockendon. Seventeen Mediterranean Gulls were noted over gardens, feasting on flying ants. A Spoonbill flew over Chafford Hundred. A Grasshopper Warbler and Cuckoo were in the Ingrebourne Valley. There were three Arctic Terns off Gallions Reach, with Sandwich Terns there and at the Woolwich Ferry.
MID-ESSEX: Abberton had the county’s first breeding Spoonbills, two Great White Egrets, six Cattle Egrets, Red-necked Grebe, Ruddy Shelduck, Arctic Tern and three Mandarins. Old Hall Marshes had two Pectoral Sandpipers, 18 Spotted Redshanks, Spoonbill and Great White Egret. Mersea had 25 Mediterranean Gulls, Grey Plovers, Turnstones, Whimbrels, Spoonbill, Brent Goose, Whinchat and Wheatear. Fingringhoe Wick had Turtle Doves, Nightingales, Greenshanks and three Spotted Redshanks.
NORTH ESSEX: Holland Haven had a Turtle Dove, two Wood Sandpipers, four
Mediterranean Gulls and two Wheatears. The Naze and Hamford Water had Sanderling, Turnstones, Bar-tailed Godwits and Grey Plovers. Wigboro Wick Farm had five Green Sandpipers, a Wood Sandpiper and nine Whimbrels. Seven Ravens flew over Clavering.
RAINHAM MARSHES: Highlights included White Stork, Spoonbill, two Great White Egrets, a few Black-tailed Godwits, Whimbrel, Curlew,
Greenshank, Common Sandpiper, two Wood Sandpipers, breeding Redshanks, Lapwings and Avocets, 11 Little Ringed Plovers, Med Gulls, Yellow-legged Gulls, 60 Common Terns, two Sandwich Terns, Grasshopper Warblers, Cuckoo, and four Marsh Harriers with four young.
SOUTH-EAST ESSEX: Black-necked Grebes bred at Bowers Marsh. Five Great White Egrets and a Spoonbill moved between there and
Vange. Five Spotted Redshanks and three Garganeys were at Vange. Great White Egrets were at Lion Creek, Lower Raypits and on Wallasea, where there were four Spoonbills. Two Cuckoos were at Stanford Warren. Ravens flew over Hockley. There were five Brent Geese and an Eider off Wakering Stairs. Twelve Common Scoters were off Canvey (13th). East Tilbury had an Arctic Tern and 597 Avocets. Howard Vaughan
NORFOLK
HIGHLIGHTS: Snettisham had a Western Sandpiper (22nd-30th), White-rumped Sandpiper (22nd & 27th) and three Roseate Terns. A Long-billed Dowitcher was at Dickleburgh Moor (25th), with it, or another, at Potter Heigham Marshes (26th) and Hickling Broad (28th-29th). A White-rumped Sandpiper was at Cley (17th). Pectoral Sandpipers were at Titchwell (13th) and Hickling Broad (15th-25th).
Pacific Golden Plovers were at Hickling Broad (3rd), Cley (5th-6th & 10th), Stiffkey (10th), Snettisham (16th), Titchwell (16th-17th) and Burnham Norton (from 23rd). Up to three birds were involved. The two Black-winged Stilts remained at Hickling Broad (to 11th). An Alpine Swift flew over Cromer (8th). A Rose-coloured Starling was at Weeting (3rd-5th). A Red-backed Shrike was at Weybourne Camp (4th), where a Citrine Wagtail flew over (27th).
Savi’s Warblers were at Hickling Broad (10th) and Strumpshaw Fen (16th-20th). Up to nine Bee-eaters were noted at 11 sites. A Black Kite flew over Holt CP, Burnham Overy Dunes and Scolt Head Island (10th). Honey Buzzards flew over Strumpshaw Fen, Brundall, Thorpe Marshes and Whitlingham CP (5th), and Holt and Hunworth (8th & 13th).
A Glossy Ibis was at Ken Hill Marshes (from 12th), making the occasional visit to Snettisham. A Black-crowned Night Heron flew over Strumpshaw Fen (29th). A White Stork with a metal ring on its leg was at Ashwicken (23rd-31st), with another at Terrington St Johns (30th). A Cory’s Shearwater flew past Cley (31st). Two Roseate Terns were at Cley (5th-11th) and three off Winterton (10th).
BREYDON WATER: Highlights include two Bee-eaters (4th), a Goldeneye (26th), Scaup (29th), Great White Egrets (7th & 18th) and a Spoonbill (20th). There was a Hobby, Little Gull, four Kittiwakes, the first juvenile Black-headed Gull (3rd), Arctic Terns (26th & 27th) and 16 Goldfinches.
Maxima included a July record 741 Shelducks, 93 Egyptian Geese, seven Wigeon, 12 Gadwall, 11 Shovelers, 32 Teal, 89 Little Egrets, 43 Cormorants, 121 Oystercatchers, 440 Avocets, 14 Golden Plovers, 10 Knot, 86 Dunlin, 741 Black-tailed Godwits, six Bar-tailed Godwits,15 Whimbrels, 692 Curlews, two Greenshanks, four Common Sandpipers, 721 Redshanks, four Spotted Redshanks, a Curlew Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover and 453 Mediterranean Gulls.
NOA HOLME BIRD OBSERVATORY:
Maxima included 500 Common Scoters,
200 Sandwich Terns, two Turtle Doves, five Stonechats, three Great White Egrets, 43 Whimbrels, four Greenshanks, two Red Kites, 14 Little Egrets, seven Spoonbills, 91 Curlews, 70 Black-tailed Godwits, three Mediterranean Gulls, three Siskins, three Green Sandpipers, three Brent Geese, 50 Swifts, six Gannets, four Wigeon, four Crossbills, 20 Swallows, 30 House Martins, 30 Lapwings, two Common Sandpipers, five Fulmars, seven Great Crested Grebes, four Arctic Skuas, five Kittiwakes, eight Common Terns, 35 Little Terns, three Snipe, 72 Golden Plovers, 250 Sand Martins and a Cuckoo, Barn Owl, Grasshopper Warbler, Grey Wagtail, Barnacle Goose, Spotted Redshank, Tawny Owl, Hobby, Yellowhammer, Treecreeper, Great Skua, Cattle Egret, Arctic Tern, Redpoll, Yellow Wagtail and Black Tern.
NOA CLEY AREA: Highlights included three Cattle Egrets, eight Little Gulls, a Caspian Gull, Curlew Sandpiper, Crane, two Wood Sandpipers and a Garganey. Spoonbills at Stiffkey Fen peaked at 35.
Pete Allard, Sophie Barker (www.noa.org.uk) and Robin Chittenden. For the latest bird news please phone 09068 700 245. Calls to 09068 700 245 from a landline or mobile phone cost 65p per minute plus your phone company access charge. Service provided by Birdline East Anglia.
For enquiries please call 0330 333 6946 or 07941 333 970. www.birdlineeastanglia.co.uk twitter.com/BirdlineEAnglia facebook.com/robinchittenden7
SUFFOLK
HIGHLIGHTS: The Roller remained near Icklingham (to 1st). Two Bee-eaters flew over Iken (2nd), with three at Bentley (14th). A Wood Warbler was ringed at Hollesley (20th). A Gull-billed Tern was at Minsmere then Carlton Marshes (26th). A Purple Heron was at Carlton Marshes (31st). A Glaucous Gull was by Hen Reedbeds (16th). Minsmere had White-rumped Sandpiper (19th-23rd), Red-necked Phalarope (1st), Pectoral Sandpiper (31st) and two Roseate Terns (to 20th). Roseate Terns were off Lowestoft (1st) and Landguard (19th).
Robin Chittenden. For the latest bird news please phone 09068 700 245. Calls to 09068 700 245 from a landline or mobile phone cost 65p per minute plus your phone company access charge. Service provided by Birdline East Anglia.
For enquiries please call 0330 333 6946 or 07941 333 970. www.birdlineeastanglia.co.uk twitter.com/BirdlineEAnglia facebook.com/robinchittenden7
DERBYSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Bittern was at Carr Vale (14th). Two Ruddy Shelducks were at Carsington Water. Three Scaup were at Long Eaton GP (2nd). A Crane flew over Belper River Gardens (8th). Quails were at Stockley (7th), Sinfin Moor (two to mid-month), Barrow-on-Trent (11th) and Elton Common (three from 22nd). Ospreys were at Darley Dale (11th), Erewash Meadows (19th), Barrow GP (24th-25th) and Bleaklow (31st).
BARROW GP: There was a Great White Egret, seven Little Egrets, 14 Egyptian Geese, 12 Gadwall, two Teal, a Shoveler, Oystercatcher and Common Sandpiper.
CARR VALE: There was a Marsh Harrier, Wood Sandpiper, four Black-tailed Godwits, a Greenshank, two Red Kites, a Little Egret, three Mandarins, 39 Gadwall, five Teal, two Shovelers, a Pochard, two Hobbies, two Peregrines, a Water Rail, five Oystercatchers, a Ringed Plover, two Redshanks, a Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpipers, Common Gull, eight Common Terns, six Yellow Wagtails and a Cetti’s Warbler.
CARSINGTON WATER: Highlights included eight Common Scoters (15th), a Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Greenshank, two Mediterranean Gulls, two Arctic Terns, three Little Egrets, three Shelducks, 36 Gadwall, six Teal, five Pochards, 261 Tufted Ducks, a Goosander, Red Kite, two Hobbies, a Peregrine, ten Oystercatchers, two Little Ringed Plovers, a Dunlin, two Redshanks, two Common Sandpipers, five Yellow-legged Gulls, three Common Terns and two Ravens.
DRAKELOW: There were three Mandarins, three Shovelers, a Hobby, four Oystercatchers, a Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Common Tern.
FOREMARK RESERVOIR: There were two Mediterranean Gulls, two Caspian Gulls, a Yellow-legged Gull, Arctic Tern, three Little Egrets and 10 Common Terns.
LONG EATON GP: There were four Little Egrets, a Common Sandpiper and 16 Common Terns.
OGSTON RESERVOIR: There was a site record flock of 34 Common Scoters, a Great White Egret, Goldeneye, a site record flock of 44 Curlews, four Black-tailed Godwits, a Greenshank, two Little Egrets, 10 Mandarins, 16 Gadwall, 10 Teal, a site record 196 Tufted Ducks, two Hobbies, a Peregrine, six Oystercatchers, four Little Ringed Plovers, a Snipe, nine Redshanks, three Common Sandpipers, two Yellow-legged Gulls, five Common Terns and a Siskin.
SUTTON SCARSDALE FLASH: There were 15 Little Ringed Plovers, two Ringed Plovers, a Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit plus a Yellow-legged Gull.,
WILLINGTON GP: There was a Great White Egret, two Black-tailed Godwits, a Greenshank, Green Sandpiper and five Little Egrets.
OTHER SITES: The two Red-crested Pochards remained at Melbourne Pool. A Common Scoter was at Pools Brook CP (13th). Whimbrels were at Peak Forest and Beeley Moor Triangle. A Yellow-legged Gull was at Staunton Harold Reservoir. A Caspian Gull was at Deepdale Flash. A Pied Flycatcher was on the Stockley Trail. Rod Key
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
COTSWOLDS: The Cotswold Water Park had two Great White Egrets, seven Little Ringed Plovers, a Whimbrel, nine Black-tailed Godwits, a Ruff, Dunlin, five Snipe, a Greenshank, two Redshanks, six Common Sandpipers, a Wood Sandpiper and 12 Green Sandpipers. Two Quails were at Tresham, two at Wormington and one at North Cerney. A Water Rail was at Bourton Pits. A Whinchat was at Calcot (22nd).
FOREST OF DEAN: Red Kites flew over Lydbrook several times. A Barn Owl was at Coleford (1st).
LOWER SEVERN VALE: Frampton Pools and the Saul Warth area had a Great White Egret, 104 Avocets, five Knot, a Whimbrel, Mediterranean Gull, three Grasshopper Warblers and 16 Yellow Wagtails. Guscar Rocks and Aylburton Warth had two Knot, two Whimbrels, four Common Sandpipers, two Green Sandpipers and a Wheatear. Seven Common Sandpipers were at Berkeley Shore.
SLIMBRIDGE: The White-spotted Bluethroat remained (to 2nd). There was an Osprey, four Garganeys, three Great White Egrets, a juvenile Water Rail, two Grey Plovers, seven Sanderling, three Knot, seven Ruff, two Spotted Redshanks, two Greenshanks, two Wood Sandpipers, 11 Green Sandpipers, a Mediterranean Gull and Grasshopper Warbler. A Quail was at Shepherds Patch (17th).
UPPER SEVERN VALE: A Rose-coloured Starling was in a Tewkesbury garden (10th). Coombe Hill Meadows logged eight Red Kites, two Quails, a Garganey, Great White Egret, Little Ringed Plover, six Black-tailed Godwits, a Dunlin, two Snipe, two Common Sandpipers, two Wood Sandpipers, seven Green Sandpipers and five Whinchats. A Great White Egret was at Shuthonger (20th). Andy Jayne (01452 506 502)
LEICESTERSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Rose-coloured Starling was at Ullesthorpe (5th-7th). Two Caspian Gulls were at Shawell (14th). An Osprey flew over Melton Mowbray (15th). A Garganey was at Eyebrook Reservoir (24th-31st), with a Wood Sandpiper there (26th). A Spoonbill flew over Ibstock (25th).
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Gull-billed Tern at Stanwick GP (27th) will be the first county record if accepted. One or two Cattle Egrets were there (1st-25th). A Quail was near Brackley (21st).
CLIFFORD HILL GP: There were parties of seven and eight Black-tailed Godwits, a Whimbrel, Little Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper, five Dunlin and a Yellow-legged Gull.
DIRFT 3: There were two Wood Sandpipers, seven Curlews, five Black-tailed Godwits, six Little Ringed Plovers, two Greenshanks, four Common Sandpipers, a Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Redshank, 12 Yellow-legged Gulls, four Caspian Gulls and a Wheatear.
EARLS BARTON GP: There were two Wood Sandpipers, 16 Black-tailed Godwits, four Little Ringed Plovers, two Common Sandpipers, a Greenshank, Dunlin and three Great White Egrets.
PITSFORD RESERVOIR: There was a Goldeneye (from 14th), a Garganey, 400 Gadwall, two Great White Egrets, three Yellow-legged Gulls, four Common Sandpipers, a Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Crossbill (23rd), Osprey, Hobby and Redstart.
STANFORD RESERVOIR: An Osprey was seen twice. A Redstart stayed for four days. There were 27 Ravens, six Black-tailed Godwits, five Common Sandpipers, a Redshank, Great White Egret, Yellow-legged Gull and Hobby.
STANWICK GP: A Ruff, Greenshank, Redshank, Dunlin, three Black-tailed Godwits, two Green Sandpipers, three Common Sandpipers, a Caspian Gull, 15 Yellow-legged Gulls and a Peregrine were logged.
THRAPSTON GP: There was an Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Great White Egret, Green Sandpiper and Ring-necked Parakeet.
OTHER SITES: Lilbourne Meadows held two Redstarts, a Common Sandpiper and 11 Green Sandpipers. Brampton Valley had two Whinchats, several Redstarts and four Crossbills. Redstarts were also at Harrington Airfield (three), a Pitsford garden, Honey Hill and Old. Marsh Harriers flew over Moulton and Harrington Airfield. An Osprey flew over Fermyn Wood. Five Common Scoters spent a day at Ringstead GP. A Caspian Gull visited Welford Reservoir. Eight Green Sandpipers and a Common Sandpiper were at Deene Lake. Bob Bullock (01604 627 262)
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: The Great Reed Warbler remained at Besthorpe (to 4th). Honey Buzzards were at Welbeck (from 19th). A Little Tern was at Collingham (3rd).
IDLE WASHLANDS: There were several Mediterranean Gulls, a Little Gull (3rd), two Sandwich Terns (23rd), Avocets (3rd & 13th), Sanderling (21st & 26th), 33 Black-tailed Godwits, a Whimbrel (21st), Wood Sandpipers (6th & 13th), a Turnstone (30th-31st), Garganey (25th), Common Scoter (13th), Spoonbill (21st-30th) and a Cattle Egret (from 26th).
LANGFORD LOWFIELDS: There was a Greenshank, Whimbrel (11th), 32 Black-tailed Godwits, several Turnstones (23rd-31st), 15 Yellow-legged Gulls, a Caspian Gull, Garganey (19th-24th) and Spoonbill (27th).
OTHER SITES: Eleven Common Scoters were at Annesley Pit Top, four at Holme Pierrepont (12th) and one at Attenborough (14th-16th). Lound had a Garganey (9th), Black Tern (27th) and Sanderling (31st). Two Sandwich Terns were at Holme Pierrepont (2nd). Black-tailed Godwits included 17 at Holme Pierrepont, 14 at Attenborough, 28 at Lound and smaller numbers elsewhere. Two Avocets were at Kilvington (10th). Quails were at Osberton, Coates, Lambley and Gringley. Ospreys were at Clumber (3rd) and Hoveringham (21st). A Whinchat was seen at Budby Pumping Station (15th & 20th). Tom Shields
OXFORDSHIRE
OTMOOR: The Glossy Ibis, that has been resident for the majority of 2021, remained throughout. Migratory birds included an Osprey (16th), Wood Sandpiper (18th) and a number of Yellow Wagtails, including some juveniles. There were also sightings of Common and Green Sandpipers, Quail, Black-tailed Godwit, Redstart, and a Black-necked Grebe (from 17th). A number of Corn Buntings appeared. Andrew Martin
RUTLAND
HIGHLIGHTS: Rutland Water had a Spoonbill (13th), Gannet (7th) and Honey Buzzard (31st). A Quail was at Quarry Farm (9th).
RUTLAND WATER: The count (27th) produced 11 Mandarins, 2,030 Gadwall, 3,069
Tufted Ducks, 48 Little Egrets, seven Great White Egrets and 257 Great Crested Grebes. A Marsh Harrier was seen (12th & 15th). Waders included 19 Oystercatchers, seven Avocets, five Curlews, five Common Sandpipers, Whimbrels (9th, 19th & 30th), 30 Black-tailed Godwits (18th), two Knot (22nd), a Ruff (3rd) and Sanderling (14th & 21st). There was a Mediterranean Gull (10th-11th) and five Yellow-legged Gulls (11th & 27th). The Black Tern remained. A Cuckoo was still present (8th). A Crossbill flew over (17th).
OTHER SITES: Two Mandarins and two Shovelers were at Fort Henry Ponds (25th) with an Osprey there (17th). Some 150 Stock Doves fed in Exton Park (10th). Little Owls were at Manton and Bisbrooke (14th). Early migration at Luffenham Airfield saw Redstarts (16th & 21st), a Wheatear (28th) and Whinchat (29th). Spotted Flycatchers were at three sites. Terry Mitcham
WEST MIDLANDS
MARSH LANE: Five Black-tailed Godwits dropped in. Green Sandpipers and Snipe were also seen. A Peregrine, Red Kite and Hobbies flew over. An Egyptian Goose and Garganey remained. Mediterranean Gulls were regular.
SANDWELL VALLEY: There was a Great White Egret, Black-tailed Godwit, two Green Sandpipers and two Water Rails. An Osprey flew over. There were occasional sightings of Raven, Peregrine and Hobby.
OTHER SITES: A Yellow-legged Gull was at Stubbers Green. Five Ravens were around Barr Beacon. A Little Owl was at Knowle, with a Barn Owl at Barston. Dippers remained in south Birmingham. Pete Hackett (0121 358 2454)
ANGLESEY
HIGHLIGHTS: An Elegant Tern at Cemlyn on (4th-28th) was the 16th species of tern to be found on Anglesey. A Pacific Golden Plover was at Malltraeth (27th). Both birds were the first records for the island. Cemlyn also had four Roseate Terns, two Storm Petrels (12th), a Grey Phalarope (16th), Marsh Harrier (17th), 37 Puffins (17th), seven Common Sandpipers (18th), an Arctic Skua and Red Kite (21st), Eider, Mediterranean Gull and Cuckoo. South Stack had a Hooded Crow, 23 Choughs and 29 Puffins.
The Alaw Estuary held 15 Greenshanks, 12 Bar-tailed Godwits, two Black-tailed Godwits, four Whimbrels, six Common Sandpipers, five Knot, a Ruff and Osprey. Cors Ddyga had a Cattle Egret (1st), two Great White Egrets, an Osprey, Wood Sandpiper, two Green Sandpipers and five Black-tailed Godwits. Twelve Storm Petrels were ringed at Point Lynas. A Rose-coloured Starling was at Moelfre, a Great White Egret at Llyn Llywenan, a Ring-necked Parakeet at Benllech and ten Black Guillemots in Holyhead Harbour. Ken Croft
CEREDIGION
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Little Ringed Plovers and 22 Black-tailed Godwits were at Ynys-hir (4th). Eight Common Sandpipers were at Aberystwyth (10th). Ynyslas logged 10,000 Manx Shearwaters
(16th), 200 Gannets (17th), a Red-throated Diver (18th) and 144 Sandwich Terns (23rd). Ten Common Sandpipers were at Glandyfi (18th). There were 116 Mediterranean Gulls at Llanina (19th) and 168 at Aberystwyth (22nd). A Hobby was at Cors Caron (27th & 31st), with a Wood Sandpiper, two Green Sandpipers, two Common Sandpipers and a Marsh Harrier there (31st). John Davis ( johndaviswalesbirds@gmail.com)
EAST GLAMORGAN
HIGHLIGHTS: A Common Scoter was at Lisvane Reservoir and three off Sker. Little Egrets were at Ogmore Estuary (two) and Cadoxton. Hobbies were in Cardiff and at Hendre Lake, St Mellons. A Wood Sandpiper called in at Llanilid. Nine Green Sandpipers were on the River Ely, with others at Ogmore Estuary, Llanharry and Llanilid. Two Black-tailed Godwits stopped off at Ogmore Estuary.
A Black Redstart visited a Treorchy garden, with another at the regular location of Aberthaw Power Station. A flock of 100 Mistle Thrushes was at Heol-y-Cyw. Choughs bred successfully on the Heritage Coast, with a family party of seven (five young) ranging around. Paul Roberts
RADNORSHIRE
ELAN VALLEY: Ospreys were at Claerwen, Caban and Craig Goch. Green Sandpipers were at Penygarreg and Dol y Mynach. Claerwen Reservoir held two Common Scoters, six Sand Martins, 24 Wheatears, a Great Crested Grebe, six Teal and a Sedge Warbler. Penygarreg had a Wood Warbler, five Redstarts, a Tree Pipit and eight Crossbills. Golden Plovers were on Penrhiwwen and Craig Dyfnant.
Fifteen Mistle Thrushes and three Snipe were at Penglaneinon. Barn Owls were at Penygarreg and Ciloerwent. Mandarins were at Garreg Ddu and Dol y Mynach. Six Stonechats, six Whinchats and a Short-eared Owl were by Craig Goch. A Hen Harrier was at Abergwyngu.
WYE VALLEY: Between Glasbury and Llowes, there were five Little Egrets, a Great White Egret, six Green Sandpipers, six Common Sandpipers, a Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, four Little Ringed Plovers, a Ringed Plover, Dunlin, 150 Sand Martins, two Hobbies, five Oystercatchers, 14 Yellow Wagtails and three Kingfishers. Six Goosanders and a Kingfisher were at Llanwrthwl Bridge. A Yellow Wagtail, Green Sandpiper and Hobby were at Llanelwedd. Cors y Llyn held a Grasshopper Warbler, Canada Goose and three Willow Tits. Ten Goosanders were at Cwmdaudder.
OTHER SITES: Llandrindod Lake held 14 Mute Swans, 64 Mallards, 51 Canada Geese, three Reed Warblers and four Great Crested Grebes. An Osprey was seen three times. Nightjars were at Radnor Forest, Bwlch y Sarnau, Evancoyd, Abbeycwmhir and Newchurch. Llanbwchllyn held a Kingfisher, Green Sandpiper, Common Tern, Reed Warbler, Great Crested Grebe, Teal, Tufted Duck and Water Rail.
Hobbies were at Nantmel, Beacon Hill, Aberedw Hill, Brilley and Park Farm. Maelinydd held 55 Linnets, two Snipe, six Curlews, 18 Stonechats, 14 Whinchats, 10 Yellowhammers, four Lapwings, a Cuckoo and Hen Harrier. Nantmel/ Ysfa held a Lesser Whitethroat, Grasshopper Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Redpoll, Willow Tit and Tree Pipit. Quails were at Womaston and Four Stones. Little Owls were at Old Radnor and Aberedw. Pete Jennings (radnorshirebirds@hotmail.com)
CHESHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Melodious Warbler was ringed at Hilbre Island (20th). A Hoopoe was there (21st). A White-winged Black Tern was at Ashton’s Flash (21st). Burton Mere Wetlands had a Long-billed Dowitcher (25th-30th).
WOOLSTON EYES: There were 10 adult and 16 young Black-necked Grebes. Ringing on No1 bed included Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Kingfisher, Linnet, Willow Tit, Sand Martin, Reed Warbler, Blackbird, Greenfinch, Song Thrush, Goldfinch, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Goldcrest and Garden Warbler. Sightings included 200 Swallows, 100 Sand Martins and two Grey Wagtails (18th).
No3 bed ringing team had Woodpigeon, Willow Tit, Robin, Willow Warbler, Linnet, Cetti’s Warbler, Goldcrest, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Sedge
Warbler, Reed Warbler and Bullfinch. Records included a Hobby, Marsh Harrier, Green Sandpiper, two Mediterranean Gulls, an Oystercatcher, Garden Warbler, Little Egret, four Goosanders, 800 Gadwall, three Snipe, a Kingfisher, 170 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 100 Swifts, four Little Ringed Plovers, a Curlew and nine Common Terns.
No 4 bed records included four Snipe, three Little Ringed Plovers, four Green Sandpipers, a Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, two Yellow Wagtails, 65 Lapwings and a Marsh Harrier. Dave Steel
CUMBRIA
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Spoonbills were at Haverigg (10th), with a Rose-coloured Starling in a garden there (13th). A Sandwich Tern was at Hardendale (3rd), with a Little Stint there (30th). A Roseate Tern was at Hodbarrow (5th), with two (9th-10th). A Spoonbill was there (5th & 25th), with two (9th). South Walney had a Scaup (6th & 28th) and a Black Guillemot (14th). A Hooded Crow was at Sandwith (7th).
A Great White Egret was at Ravenglass (7th). Three Quails were near Penrith (14th) and one near Kendal (14th). An Osprey fished off Foulney Island (17th). Three Hawfinches were at Barkbooth Lot (22nd). Three Avocets were at Port Carlisle (28th).
GREATER MANCHESTER
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Spoonbills flew over Chat
ELTON RESERVOIR: There was a Black-necked Grebe (9th), five Common Scoters (12th), a Wood Warbler (27th), 11 Black-tailed Godwits (7th), a Redstart (21st & 28th), three Little Ringed Plovers, three Common Sandpipers and two Green Sandpipers.
PENNINGTON FLASH: Common Scoters dropped in (5th, 15th-16th & 29th), with two (18th) and five (12th). Two Black-tailed Godwits flew through. There was a Mediterranean Gull (14th), with three (29th).
OTHER SITES: A Sanderling was at Watergrove Reservoir (29th). Audenshaw Reservoirs logged a Common Scoter (3rd-4th), with 10 (9th), and 10 Black-tailed Godwits over. Quails were at Little Woolden Moss (7th) and Chat Moss (12th). A Wood Sandpiper was on Chat Moss (8th). The Manchester mosslands had three Hobbies, two Marsh Harriers, a Corn Bunting, four Green Sandpipers, a Little Egret, three Black-tailed Godwits (11th) and a Dunlin (15th). Common Scoters included 11 on Scotman’s Flash, five on Dove Stone and one on Castleshaw Reservoirs (12th), and 29 on Blackstone Edge Reservoir and five on Castleshaw Reservoirs (13th). A Rock Pipit was at Blackstone Edge Reservoir (17th). Dr Paul Brewster (01606 590 491)
LINCOLNSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Pacific Golden Plover was at Frampton Marsh (from 19th). A Gull-billed Tern was at Stallingborough (22nd). A Montagu’s Harrier was at Messingham Quarry (2nd). A Glossy Ibis was at Alkborough Flats (from 18th). A Red-necked Phalarope flew past Huttoft Bank, with presumably the same bird seen later passing Gibraltar Point (30th).
FRAMPTON MARSH: Highlights included a Ruddy Shelduck (to 24th), Black Tern (2nd-3rd), Little Gulls (2nd, 20th & 23rd), a Great White Egret (2nd), Crane (4th), two Short-eared Owls (from 8th), 15 Spotted Redshanks (21st), four Curlew Sandpipers (24th), Ospreys (24th & 28th), 29 Spoonbills (24th), a Garganey (25th), five Wood Sandpipers (25th) and three Little Stints (26th). Freiston Shore had a Whooper Swan (9th) and three Roseate Terns (12th).
GIBRALTAR POINT: There were two Cuckoos (1st), 12 Spoonbills (3rd), a Short-eared Owl (3rd), Great White Egret (3rd), Hobby (5th), Roseate Tern (13th), Arctic Tern (14th), two Spotted Redshanks (22nd), two Mediterranean Gulls (23rd), two Pinkfeet (23rd), an Arctic Skua (26th), five Little Ringed Plovers (30th) and eight Greenshanks (31st).
OTHER SITES: Two Cranes flew over Spalding (3rd), with two more over Boultham Mere (31st). Wood Sandpipers were at East Halton Skitter (4th), Toft Newton Reservoir (18th) and Baston GP (24th). Also at Baston GP was a Black-necked Grebe (from 18th) and Garganey (20th). Quails were at Scopwick (4th-14th), Gosberton, Huttoft and Donington on Bain. Eleven Spotted Redshanks were at Alkborough Flats (25th), alongside regular Spoonbills. A Spotted Redshank was at North Killingholme (28th). Little Gulls were at Anderby Creek (14th) and Sutton-on-Sea (25th). A Pomarine Skua flew past Saltfleetby (23rd). Josh Hedley
NORTHUMBERLAND
HIGHLIGHTS: A Soft-plumaged Petrel, originally seen off Yorkshire, flew north past Cullercoats, St Mary’s Island, Newbiggin-by-theSea, Low Hauxley, Beadnell Bay and Bamburgh (1st). Long-tailed Skuas flew north at St Mary’s Island (15th & 21st). Cresswell Pond had a Temminck’s Stint, Spoonbill and Little Gull (15th) and a Spotted Redshank (15th-16th). Long Nanny had an American Black Tern (16th-22nd). A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Holywell Pond
BERWICK: Yarrow Slake had 24 Grey Herons, a family of five Sedge Warblers and two Sandwich Terns (2nd), 210 Canada Geese (9th) and 250 Lapwings, 118 Curlews, three Black-tailed Godwits, 146 Redshanks, a Pink-footed Goose and Whooper Swan (22nd). New Water Heugh had 32 Goosanders (9th) and 58 Lapwings (2nd). West Ord had 26 Linnets and three Little Egrets (9th), six Tree Sparrows (11th) and two Grey Partridges (13th).
At Berwick Pier (6th), 30 Gannets and 45 Kittiwakes per hour moved north. Calot Shad (6th) had 32 Goosanders, 280 Kittiwakes and six Sandwich Terns. Cocklawburn had 128 Common Scoters (8th), and 152 Goosanders plus 42 Eiders (27th). A Garden Warbler was at Middle Ord Pond (11th). Malcolm Hutcheson
EAST YORKSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Soft-plumaged Petrel flew past Flamborough (1st) and was tracked up the Northumberland coast a few hours later. The Black-browed Albatross remained at Bempton Cliffs. A Surf Scoter was off Ulrome (9th).
FLAMBOROUGH: There were three Pomarine Skuas (1st), a Storm Petrel (3rd), Little Egret (5th), Yellow-legged Gull (13th), a Great White Egret (20th-22nd), with two (26th), two Long-tailed Skuas and 10 Mediterranean Gulls (23rd) and a Hawfinch and four Pomarine Skuas (24th).
HORNSEA MERE: There was a Garganey and three Great White Egrets (26th). Fourteen Little Egrets and seven Mediterranean Gulls were present. A Rose-coloured Starling was in a garden (13th). Offshore, there was a Velvet Scoter (1st), Pomarine Skua (25th) and Yellow-legged Gull (26th).
SPURN: A Western Rufous Turtle Dove was in Easington for a few days (from 2nd). An Alpine Swift flew south (6th). A White-rumped Sandpiper and six Egyptian Geese were at Kilnsea Wetlands (31st). The wetlands also held five Spoonbills, two Great White Egrets, Scaup, five unseasonal Pintails and several Caspian Gulls. A Red-necked Phalarope (18th), two Curlew Sandpipers and two Roseate Terns (21st) were at Beacon Ponds. Little Gulls peaked at an amazing 1,000 (15th).
Seawatching produced two Roseate Terns, a Black Tern and 824 Kittiwakes. Swift passage was very poor, with a maximum of just over 3,000. A Grey-headed Wagtail was at Chalky Point (2nd). A Red-backed Shrike was along the Canal (9th). A Rose-coloured Starling was at Driftwood for a few days (from 9th).
OTHER SITES: A Golden Oriole was in Beverley (9th). Four Spoonbills were near Faxfleet (15th). A Bittern was by the Pocklington Canal (19th). North Cave Wetlands had three Cranes over (20th), 28 Little Egrets, a Great White Egret (7th) and two Spoonbills (11th). Two Dotterel passed through North Newbald (26th). Two Pomarine Skuas were off Ulrome (24th). A Black-necked Grebe was at Southfield Reservoir (27th). A Great White Egret was at Tophill Low (30th). Ian Marshall (01482 627 446) and John Hewitt (07952 293 060)
WEST YORKSHIRE
BRADFORD: Caspian Gulls were at Redcar Tarn (10th) and Girlington (31st). There were two Whimbrels over Howarth (12th). A Black-tailed Godwit was at Fly Flatts (17th). Yellow-legged Gulls were at Lower Laithe Reservoir (30th) and Girlington (31st). Breeding success included Dunlin and Wheatear at Fly Flatts and Merlin and Long-eared Owl elsewhere in the recording area. There was a roost of Ring-necked Parakeets in Apperley Bridge.
LOWER AIRE VALLEY: A Caspian Tern at the Main Lake (2nd) was our second record. Two juvenile Mediterranean Gulls confirmed breeding for the second successive year. There were six Egyptian Geese (4th), with two remaining (to 19th). Gadwall peaked at 600 across the area, including 380 at Astley Lake. Common Scoters were at Bowers Lake (2nd), Skelton Lake and Main Lake (3rd) and five on the Main Lake (13th). A Spoonbill was noted on five days, with a Great White Egret flying over twice.
Avocets dropped in (11th and two on 23rd). Black-tailed Godwits peaked at 32. A Whimbrel flew through (25th). There were two Dunlins, Greenshanks on three days from 16th, three Green Sandpipers (25th) and a Turnstone (31st). There were just three records of Marsh Harrier, and four each of Hobby and Peregrine. Chris King and Paul Morris
ARGYLL
TIREE: A Rose-coloured Starling at Caoles (6th), was presumably the same bird seen there (24th June). Four Sandwich Terns were at Traigh Bhagh Bay (2nd). A Coot and Wigeon were at Loch Bhasapol (9th). Two Swifts were at Scarinish (2nd). A Spotted Flycatcher was at Balephuil (2nd). A Pink-footed Goose was at Loch Riaghain (12th-19th). Waders included five Golden Plovers, two Black-tailed Godwits, five Bar-tailed Godwits, 22 Greenshanks, a Knot, a few Turnstones, 576 Sanderling and 355 Dunlin.
Four Whooper Swans, eight Great Northern Divers and three Hen Harriers summered. A Merlin was at Loch a’ Phuill. A pair of House Martins, three pairs of Whitethroats, a pair of Robins (the first for 20 years), two pairs of Goldfinches and a pair of Greenfinches bred.
The final total of calling male Corn Crakes was 285. Little Terns fledged 21 young from 39 pairs. There were broods of Shelducks, Red-breasted Mergansers, Gadwall, Shovelers, Teal and Tufted Ducks.
Most seabirds had a reasonably good breeding year: 406 pairs of Kittiwakes fledged 670 young, 355 pairs of Arctic Terns fledged 255 young, 45 pairs of Common Terns fledged 60 young and 90 pairs of Shags fledged 170 young.
Guillemots, Razorbills and Fulmars all produced moderate numbers of chicks. Offshore there were large movements of Manx Shearwaters, Gannets and Puffins, plus the odd Storm Petrel. Dr John Bowler ( john.bowler@rspb.org.uk)
CENTRAL REGION
HIGHLIGHTS: A Great Northern Diver was at the head of Loch Tay (4th-8th), with presumably the same bird on Loch Lubnaig (7th). A Hobby was at Ochtertyre (13th). A Honey Buzzard was at Lix Toll, Killin when a Golden Eagle was over Glen Lochay (18th). A White-tailed Eagle was in the Crianlarich area (29th).
CLACKMANNANSHIRE: A Little Ringed Plover was on Tullibody Inch (10th), with 14 Common Sandpipers there (24th). Blackdevon Wetlands had a Marsh Harrier, Gadwall with young and six Common Sandpipers (12th).
KINNEIL: There were 65 Red-breasted Mergansers and a Mediterranean Gull (11th), 1,002 Shelducks, 567 Black-tailed Godwits and 490 Redshanks (20th), four Greenshanks and an Arctic Tern (22nd) and a leucistic Herring Gull (25th).
POWFOULIS: There were three Greenshanks and six Sandwich Terns (21st), and a Little Ringed Plover, Whimbrel and two Greenshanks (25th).
SKINFLATS: There were 25 Little Grebes and two Mediterranean Gulls (6th), nine Pochards, two Gadwall, five Knot and 50 Dunlin (23rd), and a Little Stint, Sanderling, Whimbrel, Mediterranean Gull and 100 Sandwich Terns (25th).
STIRLING DISTRICT: A Black-tailed Godwit was at the head of Loch Tay (8th), with a Common Scoter there (10th). A Green Sandpiper was at the Carse of Lecropt (25th), with a brood of Grey Partridges and 45 Tree Sparrows, including juveniles, there (30th). A Gadwall was at Blairdrummond GP (26th). Neil Bielby
FIFE
HIGHLIGHTS: Outhead logged Bar-tailed Godwits, Black-tailed Godwits, Whimbrels, Sanderling, Ringed Plovers, Dunlin, Little Gulls and Ospreys. Ferry Hills visible migration included a Nuthatch, Pomarine Skuas, and Tree Pipits (17th). A Garganey was at Wilderness (to 19th) There were 118 Goosanders off Pathhead and 257 at Tentsmuir. A Quail was at Chance Inn. Red-throated Divers were at Cellardyke, Tentsmuir and Ruddons Point, where there was a Red-necked Grebe.
Manx Shearwaters included 92 past East Weymss (22nd), 103 at Fife Ness (1st) and 116 at Anstruther (5th). Sooty Shearwaters were off Cellardyke (27th) and Fife Ness (31st). Ospreys flew over Kilmany, Outhead, Tentsmuir, Tayport and the Eden Estuary. Marsh Harriers visited Black Loch, Crail Airfield, Drumoig and Kilrenny. Merlins were at Barnsmuir and Wormiston.
A Grey Plover was at Cocklemill Burn. A Green Sandpiper was at Wilderness. Common Sandpipers were at Cameron Reservoir, Cellardyke, Cocklemill Burn (four), Eden Estuary (six), Ruddons Point, St Margaret’s Marsh, Newmills Bay and Loch Gelly. Whimbrels were widespread at coastal sites. Great Skuas were at Pathhead and Fife Ness, with Arctic Skuas at Tentsmuir Point, Cellardyke, Fife Ness and Burntisland. A Long-tailed Skua flew over Kinghorn (20th).
Mediterranean Gulls at East Weymss peaked
at 20, with others at Pathhead, West Weymss, Buckhaven, Outhead, Leven and Dalgety Bay. A Roseate Tern was at Ruddons Point (24th-26th). Cuckoos were at Wormiston, Crail, Pittenweem and Cameron Reservoir. A Long-eared Owl was in the Ruddons Point/Cocklemill Marsh area (17th-20th). Glen Vale and Seafield held Whinchats. There were 15 Mistle Thrushes at Kilmany (30th). A Lesser Whitethroat was at Seafield (to 6th). A Grasshopper Warbler was at North Flisk. Spotted Flycatchers were at Kilmany and Craighall Den. A Nuthatch remained in Dunnikier Park. Dave Heeley (dw.heeley@btinternet.com)
HIGHLAND
HIGLIGHTS: Rose-coloured Starlings were at Portmahomack (3rd), Staffin (3rd-4th), Aird, Sleat (12th-13th) and Dornoch (29th). A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Udale Bay (15th). A Chough was at Trotternish (26th).
BADENOCH & STRATHSPEY: A Mediterranean Gull was at Loch Morlich (14th)
EASTER ROSS: Tarbat Ness had 29 Manx Shearwaters and an Arctic Skua at (2nd), Whimbrels (5th & 10th), a Purple Sandpiper (9th), with seven (19th), a Sooty Shearwater (28th), and a Storm Petrel and Little Tern (29th). A Wood Sandpiper was at Udale Bay (28th), with two Little Stints there (31st). Three Black-tailed Godwits were at Tain (9th).
INVERNESS: Ardersier had a Long-tailed Duck (8th), and a Great Northern Diver and 95 Red-breasted Mergansers (10th). There were three Whimbrels at Whiteness and six Greenshanks at Alturlie (10th). Fort George had 15 Whimbrels and two Arctic Skuas (13th), three Scaup, two Long-tailed Ducks and a Manx Shearwater (30th), and a Storm Petrel and Arctic Skua (31st). A Mandarin was at Loch Flemington (21st). Two Scaup and two Whimbrels were at Alturlie and six Whimbrels at Whiteness (25th).
LOCHABER: There were some 6,000 Manx Shearwaters off Ardnamurchan Point (8th).
SKYE & LOCHALSH: A Black-tailed Godwit was at Ardnish (1st). A Long-tailed Skua, three Storm Petrels and 120 Manx Shearwaters were seen from the Uig-Lochmaddy Ferry (9th). A Whimbrel was at Neist Point (11th). A Leach’s Petrel was off Crowlin Islands (12th). A Whimbrel was at Scullamus Moss (15th). There were 43 Storm Petrels ringed at North Skye (20th), and 160 ringed at Trotternish (27th). Three Great Northern Divers were at Achnacloich (20th). A Hobby was at Loch Alsh (31st).
SUTHERLAND: Two Arctic Skuas and a Whimbrel were at Dornoch (2nd). Five Great Skuas and 37 Manx Shearwaters were at Embo (3rd), with 120 Manx Shearwaters there (18th). Four Arctic Skuas, six Great Skuas and a Manx Shearwater were off Helmsdale (4th). Fourteen Manx Shearwaters were at Brora and 40 at Strathy Point, along with four Arctic Skuas (7th). A Glaucous Gull was at Loch Fleet (19th). A Hawfinch was at Durness (22nd). A Little Gull, Sooty Shearwater, 24 Manx Shearwaters and 12 Great Skuas were at Brora (28th), with three Little Gulls there (31st). Colin Leslie (www.highlandbirds.scot)
LOTHIAN
ABERLADY: There was a Grasshopper Warbler (30th), two Little Terns (31st) and four Little Egrets (from 22nd). A Greenshank flew over Gullane (10th).
CRAMOND: There was a Scaup (5th-8th), two Whimbrels (6th), 11 Black-tailed Godwits (17th) and 10 Greenshanks (24th). Cramond Island logged a Great Skua and 10 Manx Shearwaters (3rd), a Roseate Tern (22nd), two Mediterranean Gulls (24th) and a Long-tailed Skua (31st). Three Arctic Skuas were at Silverknowes (23rd).
GOSFORD BAY: Three Red-necked Grebes were in the bay (6th-19th). Two Common
Sandpipers (6th), a Black Guillemot (10th) and Barn Owl (21st) were at Ferny Ness. A Grasshopper Warbler was near Seton Collegiate Church (10th & 24th). A Common Sandpiper (20th), three Roseate Terns and six Black-tailed Godwits (21st), four Mediterranean Gulls (24th) and 31 Whimbrels (27th) were at Seton Burn. A Mediterranean Gull (27th) and Greenshank (28th-30th) were at Port Seton.
MUSSELBURGH: There was a Goldeneye (3rd), Lesser Whitethroat (24th), six Mediterranean Gulls (27th), an Osprey (10th), 10 Black-tailed Godwits (20th), Little Ringed Plover (22nd) and nine Common Sandpipers (26th). Two Arctic Skuas were off Eastfield (26th).
TYNINGHAME: A Grasshopper Warbler was at West Barns (24th-30th) and two Reed Warblers at Seafield Pond (27th). There were 21 Whimbrels and five Greenshanks in the bay (25th). Scoughall had three Arctic Skuas, four Roseate Terns and two Cuckoos (30th), and a Long-tailed Skua (31st). Four Ruddy Shelducks were at Belhaven Bay (24th-31st).
OTHER SITES: A Little Gull and Hooded Crow were at Portobello (3rd). There were 97 Goosanders and a Raven at Cowton Rocks, North Berwick (9th). A Short-eared Owl and Cuckoo (11th), and a White-tailed Eagle (13th) were in the Lammermuirs. Two Quails were near Longniddry (15th-20th). A Hobby flew over Yellowcraigs (23rd). A Water Rail with two young was at Duddington Loch (25th). A Pink-footed Goose was at White Sands Quarry (24th-28th). Six Yellow Wagtails (29th), and 16 Manx Shearwaters plus two Wheatears (30th) were at Torness. Jim Nicholson
OUTER HEBRIDES
HIGHLIGHTS: A Wilson’s Petrel was seen at sea, 42 miles north of St. Kilda (15th). A Subalpine Warbler species on Barra at Cuithir (26th-28th) could possibly have over-summered
OTHER SITES: Two Pintails were on
Loch Bhrusda, Berneray (12th). Four Sooty Shearwaters were 59 miles west of Barra (12th). Two past Cleat, Barra (31st) were the first seen this year. Quails were at Loch Stiapabhat (to 16th), Clachan Sands (8th) and Balranald (10th), with two there (11th). An Avocet was on the Howmore River (20th). There were 24 Black-tailed Godwits at Griminish, North Uist (6th). An Iceland Gull was at Loch Sandary (22nd). Glaucous Gulls were on Baleshare (17th) and at Orosay (21st).
A Sandwich Tern was off Ardivachar (13th), with three past Stinky Bay (20th) and another at Rushgarry (21st). A Long-tailed Skua was seen at sea, 59 miles west of Barra (12th). A Pomarine Skua was seen from Barra (23rd). A Hobby was at Carnan ard Wiay (11th). Rose-coloured Starlings were on Barra and Vatersay (1st-20th), at Daliburgh (8th) and on St. Kilda (20th-26th). A Tree Sparrow was at Callernish House, Griminish (6th). Steve Duffield (www.western-isles-wildlife.co.uk)
SHETLAND
HIGHLIGHTS: A King Eider remained at Baltasound, with an American Golden Plover there (25th). A Honey Buzzard was at St. Ninians (10th), then at Baltasound (27th). A White-rumped Sandpiper was at Virkie (22nd-24th). The Bonaparte’s Gull remained at Norwick, as did the Long-tailed Skua at Dalsetter. Rose-coloured Starlings were at Strand (5th-8th), Clousta (9th), Girlsta (24th-30th) and Sumburgh (27th-29th). Hugh Harrop (www.shetlandwildlife.co.uk)
TAYSIDE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Surf Scoter was off Kinnaber Links (20th). A Ruddy Shelduck was regular at The Lurgies, Montrose Basin (25th-29th). A Wood Sandpiper was at Hatton (26th-27th). Ospreys fished at Montrose Basin almost daily.