CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY

Fifty-Fifth Annual Report

1985

Officers 1986-87 President:

Dr. C . J . F . Coombs , Greenwith Place, Perranwell , Truro

Chairman: Mrs M. P. Visick,

Trendain , Perranwell Station, Truro

Vice Chairman: L. A. Smith,

21 Vicarage Meadows, Fowey

General Secretary: Mrs D. F . Inch,

9 Compass West, Tregadillett, Launceston

Minutes Secretary: B. T. Inch,

9 Compass West, Tregadillett, Launceston

Treasurer and Registrar: A. F . Reynolds,

33 Treworder Road, Higher Redannick, Truro

Field Meetings Officer: D. L . Thomas ,

Mirador , Whitecross, Nr . Newquay

Conservation Officer: Vacant

Assistant Conservation Officer: N. R. Phillips,

8 The Warren , St. Ives

Newsletter Editor: F. M. Couch,

29 Roman Drive, Bodmin

Public Relations Officer: E. Grace,

Gwyngala, Meres Valley, Mullion, Helston

Officer for Youth and Education: Vacant

Recorder and Editor " B i r d s in Cornwall": S. M. Chris tophers ,

" E m b e r i z a " , 5 Newquay Rd. , St. Columb Major

Assistant Editor: R. Smaldon,

46 Briar Road, Hartley, Plymouth

Secretary, Recorder and Editor for the Isles of Scilly M. J. Rogers,

4 Pent land Flats, St. Mary ' s , Isles of Scilly

Committee Members: Mr. G. Gill (Penzance) retires 1987, D. S. Flumm (Hayle), J. A. d 'E . Miller (Liskeard) and R. E. Wake (St Mawgan) retires 1988, S. C. Madge (Torpoint) and B. Wilson (Lostwithiel) retires 1989, and the officers ex-officio.

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 1986

Last year in my report I went in to considerable detail of the work which we as a Commit tee encompass in our endeavours to cover all aspects of impor tance as well as of interest to the Society. Inevitably a lot of the work is repetitive and "ma t t e r s a r i s ing" take up a great deal of time at every meeting; there must be continuity and even persistence to reach successful conclusions and it is all amazingly t ime consuming.

Very much the same team has been working away as last year but it does give me particular pleasure to have filled at last the vacant spot of Vice-Chairman. I welcome the appointment of Mr Leslie Smith of Fowey. His many years association with English China Clay as Personnel Manager gives me a good reserve whose advice, good sense and good humour I find invaluable.

Our Conservation Officer, Mr Stuart Hutchings , resigned but our link with Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation remains unbroken with the addit ion of Mr David Flumm to the Commit tee as he is also on the Scientific Commit tee of C . T . N . C .

Our Vice Chai rman and Assistant Conservat ion Officer, Mr G r a h a m Sutton of Bude also had to resign, when moving his farm and family to new pastures made spare time a rare commodi ty . We hope that his intentions of settling in Mid-Cornwall will be successful and he will then find time to rejoin us . Mr Roy Phillips of St Ives, well known to many of you, is now assisting in Conservat ion mat ters .

The Barn Owl Nest Box Scheme is now in operat ion. We have had many enquiries, mostly from farmers from all over the County . To date over 40. Mr Vic Simpson, with some, but by no means enough help, has been modifying the tea-chests which so far we have managed to stockpile, but there are several points to make over this worthwhile scheme. First of all we would like it to be a steady ongoing feature of our work. We can supply s tandard leaflets describing how to erect and fasten boxes and hope that we can ask members to assist us if requested by visiting sites and helping to advise on the ideal spot . i.e. A position with Owl appeal. . Would you indicate to the Secretary your willingness to give us a hand in this. We have not as yet got a list of active members who would be willing to shin up ladders and fasten boxes, but we bless Mr Gilbert Thomas for already doing so. Would all members , try actively to find tea-chests. They lurk in unexpected places; or something similar even if needing some repair . Your local kindly house removal company could well help, and, finally, who is willing to wield a saw and hammer to help modify the boxes? This work need not be limited to Barn Owls. For Tawny Owls the long sleeve boxes are most successful. B . T . O . has now a new and improved booklet on Nestboxes. I have copies here now priced £3 and full of informat ion.

We are now represented on the Pelyn W o o d Management Commit tee which comes under Restormel Council , and representatives at tend the Camel Estuary Users Association meetings. We are represented at the Hayle Estuary protracted enquiry and continue as we have over the years to be anxious for the future of this important " w e t l a n d " area. We also have a watching brief over Bolingey Marsh and two local resident members have under taken to do this for us which is so helpful.

Resulting from an anxious enquiry from a member concerning the immediate clearing of an interesting naturalised old mining area at Car land Shaft near Helston with heavy machinery, we wrote to protest to Cornwall County Council . It transpired that they had not known the nature of the work for which Planning permission should have been sought. We have asked to be informed of any future development.

When Dr Clark ' s Private Members Bill was presented to the House of C o m m o n s in the early summer 1985 in an at tempt to strengthen the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and give greater protection, we were not particularly happy about comments on conservation emanat ing from some Members of Parl iament so wrote to all of our Cornish Members asking them to support the Bill.

Regarding the Walmesley Sanctuary near Wadebridge, an area of more than sixty acres which we own, we have decided to apply for consideration for a grant to help restore this to an attractive Wetland area under a scheme being promoted by World Wildlife U.K. The Sanctuary suffered from the effects of the River Amble 's twisting course being completely straightened by the River Board many years ago and the consequent lowering of the water level and change in vegetation. If we are successful in getting support and can restore areas of standing water we would hope to attract great numbers of wintering wildfowl and waders on passage. It is impor tant and unusual ornithological ground for Cornwall and worth every effort to achieve it 's gretest potential .

A sinister development which came to our notice a year ago and about which we were at tempting to find evidence has now come in to the open. This is the effect that the use by the fishing industry of monofi lament nets is having on our diving seabirds. Recently thirtyfive corpses of Razorbills and Guillemots were floating in St Ives harbour then a few days later another fifteen, with similar scenes at a south coast harbour . In another instance a fishing boat returning to harbour and clearing nets threw overboard in the region of 200 dead birds. I have seen underwater film showing drowned birds caught by the neck in a wall of fine fine net, their limp bodies swaying in the current . I was told on the Isles of Scilly that there is now considered to be enough monofi lament net to go twice a round the islands. News is that there is a more efficient net in the making. Efficient for what? Perhaps the total destruction of not just our divers. These nets cannot be seen and are lethal to everything. R .S .P .B . is asking for evidence to support an enquiry in to yet one more aspect of the decimation of our wildlife. Fishermen have stated that they realise they have the means to destroy everything that swims in the sea. The horrifying figure has been published of 2,000,000 Brunnichs Guillemots caught in nets during the salmon netting season in the waters between Greenland and Canada .

Irresponsible shooting gives cause for great concern. Shooting and trespassing even more so. The recent discovery of a shot Peregrine near Truro , a Schedule 1 bird gives emphasis to this s tatement. An offender now faces a fine of up to £2000 per bird. Please be vigilant.

The two surveys which were under taken during 1985 organised by Mr Roger Smaldon will be reported in detail in the Annual Report . Mr Smaldon was encouraged by the response of members and the interest it created. The Seabird Survey covered about 8 0 % of the coastline, an unfor tunate gap occurring in West Penwith . The Woodlark Survey was not helped by the appallingly wet summer but it pretty well confirmed the fears that this charming bird is barely holding its own and seems now to have receded to the Tamar Valley.

Our Edi tors , Mr Stan Chris tophers and Mr Roger Smaldon, and Mr Mike Rogers on the Isles of Scilly, continue their good work in producing excellent Reports . Enquiries for these publications come steadily from far afield and it is very gratifying to learn that so far they have been despatched to Russia, Czechoslovakia, W. Germany, Hol land, France, Spain, Por tugal , Canada , United States and Iceland and yet the list may not be complete. The British Museum has asked us to supply them with a lot of back copies.

Do support the work of Mr Francis Couch who needs a steady stream of news, information, enquiry, or any observation which will make the Newsletter a lively link between Society Members . Mr David Thomas puts considerable time and effort into getting together such an interesting and varied list of Field Days, and the Social

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Events Sub-Committee has been most successful in arranging well-supported evenings often in conjunction with R .S .P .B .

Our stand at C .T .N .C . ' s Country Fayre in August at tracted a deal of interest and several new members .

So our work continues and I am grateful for all the support I get from the Officers and Commit tee and, important ly, from you, the Members . Please cont inue to back us and persuade family and friends to become involved and so keep the lifeblood of the Society flowing.

Peggy Visick

EDITORIAL and REVIEW of the YEAR

I have much pleasure in presenting my fifth 'Birds in Cornwal l ' . Little did I realise the enormity of the task I was taking on in 1982 and it is to the very great credit of my predecessor, David Barker, that he withstood the pressures and compiled no less than seven of these Reports . However neither David nor myself could foresee the imminent explosion in interest in birdwatching in Cornwall and the resultant, vast increase in the volume of observations submitted for possible inclusion in the journa l . It has been particularly encouraging to receive records from many of the previously under-watched areas. Such observations have confounded the ideology that 'nothing turns up away from Penwi th ' . We should not be too complacent though, for there are still many localities for which observations are sparse. There are for instance the stretches along the nor th coast from Bude to Padstow and Holywell Bay to Por t rea th - the latter including what must surely be an attractive migration post in the uncompromising shape of St Agnes Beacon. Along the south coast, Marazion to Porthleven and Fowey to Looe are poorly documented each year. Inland too , there are numerous sites worthy of closer inspection. What about Goss Moor - surely a natural east-west funnel for migrants through the centre of the county. Then there are the Fowey River woodlands and glaringly, the huge area to the east of Liskeard via Callington to the county border and then nor th through Launceston to Tamar Lakes and then west to Wilsey Down. Anyone browsing through copies of old Cornwall bird reports will find numerous sightings of interest from all of these areas and there is no reason to suspect that they would be any less productive today.

Both David Barker and myself have at tempted to produce this Report as a t rue reflection of the birdlife of Cornwall , rather than as a list of rare birds. It is hoped to continue in this vein so please send in as much information as you can. I hope that by the end of 1986 I will be in a position to call upon the assistance of another local birder to help in the preparat ion of the next Repor t . Finally I must refer to the unstinting efforts of Roger Smaldon who has been an absolute pillar of strength each year, in compiling a substantial part of the Report - I cannot be too magnanimous in praise of him.

During 1985, 277 species and 14 distinctively marked sub-species or races were reported, and have been accepted for inclusion in this report . A few records of very rare species are not included but details have been forwarded to the British Birds Rarities Commit tee and if accepted by that erudite body, will be included in a subsequent report .

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About 215 observers submitted a staggering volume of records. Individual items certainly numbered many hundreds of thousands and the weight of paper bearing these notes weighed a colossal 131bs. The s tandard of records was refreshingly high but several observers still fight shy of submitting descriptions of county rarities and therefore these records are for the most part , omitted.

Lesser Snow Goose , Siberian Thrush and Wilsons Warbler were all 'firsts' for the county, with the last named also a 'first ' for Europe . Additionally, a Yellow-nosed Albatross recorded some 50 miles off the Lizard is included and is a 'first ' for the western Palearctic.

White-billed Diver, Red-throated Pipit , Grey-cheeked Thrush, Arctic Warbler, Paru la Warbler and Black-headed Bunting were all recorded for the second time in the county.

Birds over-wintering from 1984 included a Spoonbill , a Ring-necked Duck and a Ferruginous Duck. Late in 1984 the weather had once again been unseasonably mild and consequently large numbers of Black Redstarts , Blackcaps and Chiffchaffs had been inveigled into staying. This scenario was soon to change with much colder air arriving at the end of the first week of the year. Light snow fell in many areas and the accompanying north-easterly wind encouraged many individuals of these more susceptible species to abandon the country . Simultaneously there was an influx of waterfowl, notably Wigeon, Gadwall , Pochard and Tufted Duck. The largest influx of Pintail for many years, a record-sized flock of Teal and unprecendented numbers of Scaup were all recorded. These were followed a few days later by good numbers of Smew and Gossander .

Heavy snow fell on 18th and 19th January , forcing Lapwing, Golden Plover, Fieldfare and Redwing to forsake more northerly latitudes and pass into or through the county in large flocks. Associated with the Scandinavian thrushes, lucky observers spotted one, if not two splendid male Siberian Thrushes.

The cold weather claimed a heavy toll of local birds, graphically illustrated by the recoveries of ringed Oystercatches at the Camel Estuary and the generally low number of pairs of such species as Stonechat and Willow Tit in the ensuing breeding season.

The first of about ten Bitterns also appeared at this t ime. Towards the end of the month a distinct up- turn in temperatures resulted from the wind backing to the south-west. This weather persisted into February, but from about 10th to 22nd a strong easterly airstream blew across Cornwall . There was continuous frost causing many of the smaller inland waters to freeze over. Heavy snow fell on 10th but quickly dissipated. The most obvious effect of the cold was a sizeable incursion of Red-throated Divers, succeeded by good numbers of displaced Great Crested Grebes and Red-necked Grebes, together with a few Black-necked Grebes. The rarest bird reported was a White-billed Diver which unfortunately died. Other notable occurrences were single Red Kite, Goshawk and Great Grey Shrike and an enormous Linnet flock which contained at least twelve Snow Buntings.

Towards the end of the mon th the icy conditions ameliorated as winds swung a round to the south-west. This encouraged many wintering birds to drift away but the sensibility of this depar ture was brought into question when cooling northerlies prevailed from about March 4th to 17th, followed by severe gales from 18th to 21st. On 20th, heavy snow fell but once again disappeared very rapidly. Very little of note was recorded, a l though the odd Wheatear and a Great Grey Shrike braved the elements. A drake Surf Scoter discovered in mid-month many have wintered, but apar t from an early Osprey and good numbers of Scaup remaining, there was little to enthuse over.

The first two weeks of April were very unsettled, being very wet on several days and particularly windy. There were brief glimpses of spring which brought in some

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exciting birds including single Black-winged Stilt, Great Grey and Woodcha t Shrikes and a mega-tick in the shape of a very obliging Squacco Heron . F rom mid-month to about 27th temperatures were cool but the general weather pat tern was considerably more settled inducing several rarities to arrive from the south. There were three Little Egrets, two Montagu ' s Harriers and single Honey Buzzard, Corncrake , Little Ringed Plover, Subalpine Warbler and Hawfinch and most surprisingly an American Lesser Golden Plover which presumably had wintered in Africa.

At the end of the month all of the good birds were 'nearl ies ' . A Savi's Warbler ' reeled' briefly, three Lesser Snow Geese nearly landed and a Yellow-nosed Albatross was nearly close enough to be seen from land. Despite these 'goodies ' our common summer migrants were desperately scarce.

The first three weeks of May were mainly dry and bright but virtually continuous northerly winds had almost completely halted migrat ion. Species such as Cuckoo , Swift, Swallow and many warblers were difficult to locate, but whether they succumbed in the Mediterranean region where the climate was equally unyielding or whether there was a 'c rash ' in their winter quarters is not known.

Needless to say a few birds did arrive including a Night Heron , another Little Egret, a White Stork, Marsh Harrier , 2 more Montagu ' s Harr ier , Goshawk, Crane , a 'much-t icked' Kentish Plover and 2 Golden Orioles.

As the sun finally brought a degree of warmth towards the end of the month the sight of a flock of 14 (or was it flocks of 14 and 13) of Bee Eaters at Por thgwarra must have provided a truly stunning experience. The fine weather was very short­lived but did bring a Red-footed Falcon and the only Quail of the year. F rom about June 4th an Atlantic high pulled in winds from the northeast and once again proved a deterrent to migrants . Cont inuous heavy rain June 20th-22nd may have had a disastrous effect on many breeding species and certainly caused a substantial coastal 'wreck' of Storm Petrels.

Despite the feeble protestat ions of meteorological men that things were not really as bad as they seemed, the persistent, atrocious weather throughout June and July, confounded birds and birdwatchers alike.

In view of this dreadful situation, breeding by Great Crested Grebe (albeit unsuccesful), Canada Goose, Long-eared Owl, Nightjar, Dartford Warbler , Lesser Whitethroat , Siskin and Crossbill provided a little cheer. On the detrimental side, Woodlark and Wood Warbler were uncannily difficult to find whilst the decline of the Cirl Bunting now seems irreversible.

Two notable occurrences during July involved a sizeable erruption of Crossbills early in the month and the first of what was to prove a heavy passage of Cory ' s Shearwaters towards the end of the month . A Tawny Pipit on 25th was an early au tumn migrant as was the fore-runner of a record breaking movement of Curlew Sandpipers. Other waders were scarce, especially Green and W o o d Sandpipers which were presumably unable to use their preferred habi tat , namely the muddy margins of the reservoirs, which were abnormally high for the time of year.

Anyone who thought that the climate could not possibly worsen was to be utterly confounded by the month of August . It was a mon th of rain, rain and more rain as one low pressure after another tracked across the Atlantic and buffeted the county. There were only two days during the month when it did not rain and the first of these was August Bank Holiday! Strong gales early in the month pushed record numbers of Sooty Shearwaters close inshore and these were accompanied by a few Cory 's and Great Shearwaters plus a very early Grey Pha la rope and a Long-tailed Skua. A Red-backed Shrike on 5th, a Bonelli 's Warbler on 8th and an Aquat ic Warbler on 18th were the only notable passerines reported during August but waders were better represented with single Stone Curlew, Pectoral Sandpiper and

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Buff-breasted Sandpiper noted. An uncharacteristically heavy coastal passage of some of the more common waders, notably Golden Plover, Knot, Sanderling and Dunlin occurred in mid month when south easterly gales pushed these birds across the county onto the north coast. A vast passage of 520 Cory 's Shearwaters were noted at Por thgwarra on 28th and over the succeeding week good numbers of many species of seabird were seen, particularly off the north coast. The only other birds of note at the end of August were single Honey Buzzard and Alpine Swift.

As previously acknowledged seawatching proved reasonably productive with at least 4 Long-tailed Skuas and more than a score of that enchanting gull, Sabines, providing the highlights. A Marsh Harrier , a Buff-breasted Sandpiper, another Bonelli 's Warbler and another Red-backed Shrike provided a measure of diversity.

From about the end of the first week of the month the winds abated and we settled into a drier period which lasted until mid-month . There was then a further spell of showery weather but a much drier and warmer last week to the month .

With reservoir levels remaining high the overall lack of Nearactic waders, after the gales, was glaring. Apar t from a Corncrake , another Long-tailed Skua and a few more Sabines Gulls there was little to sate the birdwatchers appetite until the arrival of the aforementioned easterly winds. This brought in many good birds including a Red-crested Pochard , 3 Dotterel, a Lesser Golden Plover, at least 4 Richards Pipits, a Tawny Pipit, single Icterine, Melodious and Arctic Warblers, a Red-breasted Flycatcher and yet another Red-backed Shrike. The first individuals of what was to prove to be an excellent passage of Yellow-browed Warblers and Lapland Buntings appeared. Finally, and by no means least, good numbers of Siskins were widely reported. There had been a limited movement earlier in September but this was merely a foretaste of the imminent invasion.

Leftovers from the spell of easterlies remained into October and a number of 'new' birds were discovered. These included a mesmerising male Stonechat showing characteristics of the eastern race 'var iegata ' , an Aquat ic Warbler, two more Red-breasted Flycatchers, a Scarlet Rosefinch, up to five Ortolans and a superb male Black-headed Bunting. The probability is that the majority of these birds had arrived in the U.K. late in September rather than October because the prevailing westerly wind was unlikely to induce anything into leaving the continent.

The westerlies brought in a number of 'Yanks ' including another Lesser Golden Plover, another Pectoral Sandpiper, a Wilson's Phalarope and at least two Red-eyed Vireos. Other Nearactic species which were not noted until later in the month may also have arrived at this t ime. Included in these were a Ring-necked Duck, a Yellow-billed Cuckoo, a Grey-cheeked Thrush, a Parula Warbler and a much vaunted but fast disappearing male Wilson's Warbler .

From 10th day of the month a very settled period of weather with predominantly northerly winds ensured continuing avian interest. A very pronounced movement of Meadow Pipits was reported, at least 1600 Siskins wheezed and zinged overhead and more Yellow-browed Warblers and Red-breasted Flycatchers arrived. The biggest influx of Crossbills since 1972 continued, a Barnacle Goose flew past St Ives and several Eider including many splendid drakes were recorded.

In the second half of the month there were more Richards and Tawny Pipits, together with a Red-throated Pipit , a small influx of Bearded Tits, a Rose coloured Starling and two Hawfinches. The list of rarities was now almost seemingly inexhaustible.

November followed much the same pattern as October, weatherwise. The first two weeks were predominant ly unsettled, mild and showery with a westerly airstream much in evidence and the latter two weeks basically cold but fine. The

result was a quiet start to the month apart from a passage of 33 Pomar ine Skuas off . Rosemullion Head and a few Little Auks elsewhere. The colder, drier air from Siberia encouraged wildfowl to arrive. In the vanguard were several Long-tailed Ducks, a flock of Ruddy Ducks and a few Whooper Swans, al though Bewicks Swans and geese were scarce. A very late Osprey was reported, Siskins continued to pour through and another large flock of Crossbills was noted.

December proved to be a most unrewarding month , due no doubt to the continuing mild, wet weather. We were forced to endure this dank a tmosphere until Christmas when we were treated to a few days of dry, bright and very cold air. Early in the month a Cattle Egret was seen for a few days and after Christmas there was a drake Green-winged Teal and a Waxwing.

Thanks To all who made a contribution to this report but especially; To Roger Smaldon for his assistance with the section Red-legged Partr idge to House Mart in . To Mike Frost and Graham Sutton for photographs . To Daniel Cole for the cover drawing. To Mike Frost, Dave F lumm, Renfred Hathway, T. M. Melling, Thelma Sykes and Mark Weake for their excellent drawings.

Submission of Records Records for 1986 should be sent to the Editor by the 15th January 1987 at the

very latest. However to assist with the early publication of this report , I would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the year.

Rarities Reports of national rarities must be accompanied by a full description,

preferably notes made in the field. Sketches and photographs can be of great assistance but these are not normally returnable. These descriptions should be submitted to the Editor as soon as possible after the occurrence and should, wherever possible be submitted on the BBRC Rarities Form obtainable either from the Editor or from M. J. Rogers, 4 Pent land Flats , St. Mary ' s , Isles of Scilly, TR21 OHY.

Reports of County rarities must be accompanied by a full description — too often it is necessary to disregard reports not substantiated by field notes .

County Rarities requiring descriptions include:

Red-necked Grebe Sabines Gull Black-necked Grebe Iceland Gull Leach's Petrel Glaucous Gull Cory 's Shearwater Roseate Tern Great Shearwater Arctic Tern Bittern Black Guillemot Purple Heron Little Auk White Stork Long-eared Owl Garganey Woodlark Scaup Richards Pipit Velvet Scoter Tawny Pipit Smew Waxwing Ruddy Duck Nightingale All grey Geese Bluethroat Honey Buzzard Cetti 's Warbler Red Kite Savi's Warbler

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Marsh Harrier Montagu ' s Harrier Goshawk Hobby Spotted Crake Little Ringed Plover Dotterel Temminck ' s Stint Pectoral Sandpiper Buff-breasted Sandpiper Red-necked Pha la rope Pomar ine Skua Long-tailed Skua Mediterranean Gull

Aquatic Warbler Barred Warbler Yellow-browed Warbler Wood Warbler (migrants) All Hippolais Warblers Red-breasted Flycatcher Willow Tit Golden Oriole Tree Sparrow Serin Scarlet Rosefinch Lapland Bunting Ortolan Bunting Cirl Bunting

Additionally, the Recorder may at any time request full details of an unusual occurrence.

Records should follow the order shown in this report , and not in alphabetical or diary form. Adherance to these basic guide lines will greatly facilitate the extraction of information from your notes.

Stan Christophers

Contributors Abbot t , S. Akers P . G . Alexander, K. & Mrs W. Aley, P . H . Allen, Mrs . B. Andrew, R. Ansell, W . F . H . Aston, A . E . C . Babbington, J . F . Bailey, A. Bailey, M . R . A . Barker, D . J . & Mrs . D . C . Barnard, C .C . Barton, I .M. Basset, Mrs . P . Belringer, R .M. Bird, Miss B.J . Birkin, M . J . , F . J . , & M. Boatman, J . M . & M. Bottomley, J .B . & S. Bowden, N . A . G . & Mrs . N. Bray, P .K. British Birds Rarities Commit tee . British Trust for Ornithology. Bromley, A. Brown, Dr. C.

Brown, P . Buckland, M . C . Bullock, E & P. Burden, C .G. Burns, D .W. Burridge, R .E . Burton, A. & B.E. Butler, R. Carne , T .M. Cave, B. Chesborough, P . S . Chown, D.J . Christophers, B.T.S. Chris tophers , S.M., A . D .

& H . M . Cleeves, T.R. Clemo, N . P . Cole, S.J. Conway, G .J . Cook , E . J . Cott le, N . W . Cot ton , D . J . (DJCn) Couch, F .M. Courtnell , D.R. Cox, S.J. (SJCx) Craven, B.T. Cross, M. Culwick, S.V.

Davies, S. Davison, J. (JDn) Deal, H .A . Dingle, T . J . Dustow, J. Dwyer, P . J . Eva, D. Everett, K. Exelby, N .B . Field, B.R. Flumm, D.S. Follows, K. Frost, M . P . Gammage, P .A . Gendall , R. Gibbard, D. Gibson, J . Gilbert, J .S . Gilroy, Mrs. B.R. Golley, M.A. Gould, R.W. Grace, E. (EGe) Green, M. Greenstreet, A . J . Griffiths, E.

Gynn, G.G. & Mrs. E .G. Hallett, M.A. Hanlon, V.J .

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Hannaford , R. (RHd) Rogers, S. Rosier, A . B . Hardy, Mrs . E . H . Rogers, S. Rosier, A . B .

Harbor . A. (AHr) Rowe, W . F . Harr ison, P . R .S .P .B . Ha r rop , A . H . J . Rundle, P . Harvey, J . (JHy) Rutter, P . A . Hathway, A. Sanders, A. & J. Hathway, R .F . Sawle, A . C . Hawkey, J . Semmens, M . P . H e a d , G .C. Shaw, K.D. Henwood, B. (BHd) Short , P . (PSt) Hewett , B. Sillifant, P . T . Hill, B.J . Skeen, R . Q . Honeychurch, F . H . Smaldon, R. Hooker , O . J . Smith, A. Howat t , S. Speak, P . W . Hutchings, S.C. Spong, P . Inch, B. & Mrs . D. Stanley, Mrs . B. Ironside, Mrs . J . Sut ton, G . P . Jackson, G .C. Sykes, T.K. Jane , J .A . Symons, A . J . Jewells, A . M . Taylor, B. John , A . W . G . Thomas , D .L . Johns , Mrs . S.D. Thomas , G. Jones, Miss M.J . Thomas , G . H . Julian, D. Thorn ton , J . Kelley, D .F . Tonking, C .N. Kendall, F . H . C . Tout , Mrs . M . C . Kendall, I. Trewhella, G. Lane, R. Tucker, K. Lawrence, M.E . & C.G. Tucker, V.R. Lawson, M. Turner , R. Lessells, Miss L .M. Turpi t t , L .W. Love, D .F . & Mrs . L . F . C . Tyler, M . W . Lycett, I. Tyzzer, J .G . McCartney, P . M . Visick, Mrs . M . P . Madge, S.C. & Mrs . P .S Wake, R .E . Martyn, E . Walters, J . M . Maxwell, G. Warriner, R .E . (REWr) Melling, T .M. Waters , P . L . Millett, J .E . Watmouth , N . J . Mills, G.E . & Mrs . B. Watson, M . G . Norman , T .E . Weake, M . S . Northcot t , W . C . Webb, B.L. Northcot t , W . E . Webb , L. Pa ton , V.S. Wetzel, B. Pat tenden, B. White, G.R. & M. Pay, A .R . Wicks, S. Pearman, Mrs . S. Wilcox, P .R . Pellow, K. Williams, L . P . Penhallurick, R .D . Wilmott , B. (BWt) Perkins, R .J . & J. Wilson, J . H . W . Pickering, H. Wi tcomb, R. Powell, L .S. & Mrs . E . M . Wot ton , B. Poynton, R. & Mrs . R. Yelland, D . M . Randall , J . M . Young Ornithologists Rayment, M . D . Club. Riley, D. Roberts , Mrs. T .D .

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INCOME A N D EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1985

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1984

£

3,091

283

INCOME Subscriptions

Annual Membership 1985 -Do- previous years

Life membership Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions

1985 -Do- previous years

£ P

3,522.25 596.50

75.00

530.18 290.06

£ P

3,374 160 350

31 250 322

516

Donations Rent, Walmsley Sanctuary Interest

War Loan Cornwall County Council B o n d s . N .S .B . Investment Account Charities deposit fund Bank Deposit Account

31.56 170.34 601.39 136.37 642.68

5,013.99 94.30

350.00

1,119

906 484 127

Other Income Sale of Annual Reports — Scilly

— Mainland Other Sales and income

1,773.36 225.80 237.68

1,582.34

l,5l7 2,236.84

6,520

1,590 1,135

373 331 723 134 136

6 466

109 70

281

^ E X P E N D I T U R E Printing, Stationery and Postages

Annual Repor ts , 1984: Mainland Scilly

News Letters Other Print ing and Stationery ... Postages Rents and licences Insurances Hire of rooms for meetings

Hide expenses Subscriptions and donat ions

to Societies Goods for resale Miscellaneous

1,650.00 1,440.00

255.00 426.20 821.11 127.00 119.22 54.00 39.47

635.00 113.25 144.92

9,277.47

5 3 5 4 B r e n e y C o m m o n a p p e a l

contr ibut ion

5,825.17

1,000.00

5 3 5 4 6,825.17

£1,116 EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £2,452.30

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1985

N O T E : The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary in addit ion to the Assets shown in this Balance Sheet.

We have examined the above Balance Sheet dated 31st December, 1985, and the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended on that date with the books of the Society and certify that they are in accordance therewith.

Whitaker , Redfearn, Papp in & C o . Dated ??th March, 1986 Accountan ts . Newquay

13

1984 £ £ p £ p

INVESTMENTS £902.24 3.5% War Loan at market price at

320 31st December, 1984 319.17 Cornwall County Council Bonds:—

1,000 14.5% Repayable 13th March , 1985 1,000.00 1,000 10.5% Repayable 31st March , 1987 1,000.00

2,320 1,319.17 1178 DEBTORS 185.52

STOCK at cost 220.00 BANK BALANCES

3,307 N.S .B . Investment Account 10,408.52 Charities Deposit Fund 3,000.00

6,134 Bank Deposit Account 877.04 1,170 Current Account 651.85

20 Cash in Hand _

10,631 14,937.41

14,129 16,662.10 14,129 Less: LIABILITIES

51 Subscriptions received in advance 285.00 153 Sundry Creditors -

204 285.00

£13,925 NET ASSETS £16,377.10

ACCUMULATED FUNDS Balance at 31st December, 1984 13,925.92 Add: Excess of Income over Expenditure for year 2,452.30

16,378.22 Less: Decrease in Market Value of War Loan 1.12

£13,925 £16,377.10

Species List for 1985 The following species are in the order shown in 'The British Birds List of Birds

of the Western Palearct ic ' .

Please note the following definitions: (a) Reference to " P o r t h g w a r r a " includes the area south of a line drawn from

C a m Les Boel to St. Levan. (b) " M o u n t ' s B a y " refers only to that part of the bay between Mousehole and

Marazion . (c) "Whi t s and B a y " refers to the bay east of Looe and not the bay of a similar

name at Sennen. (d) "Pen t i r e P o i n t " — nor th of Polzeath. (e) " P o r t h M e a r " — Por thco than , and not the cove of a similar name near St.

Ives.

All species noted on the Cornish mainland, and found acceptable, are included in this report . Where a record has been accepted by British Birds Rarities Committee, this fact is stated.

Under the majority of species, sightings are listed in date order, i.e. localities with January sightings are listed first, locations with December sightings are listed last. This avoids dividing the County into geographical or topographical areas, which can cause considerable confusion when extracting data from reports .

RED-THROATED DIVER — Uncommon winter Visitor. Passage migrant.

In the first winter period there were records from 28 sites, 13 on the north coast and 15 on the south coast . In the second winter period there were records from 13 sites, 7 on the north coast and 6 on the south coast. Only 8 sites held birds in both winter periods. There were 4 inland occurrences. Singles at Duckpool and Veryan Bay were the only reports for the first half of January . In the second half of the month there were singles at 8 widely scattered localities. Early in February there was very little movement except off West Pentire where there was 5 on 5th and 6 on 9th. A sizeable influx occurred from about Feb 11th with most arriving from 14th-17th and 23rd. Inland, singles appeared at Siblyback and College on 16th and at Stithians and Bussow Res. on 17th. The Stithians and Siblyback birds proved to be long-stayers leaving on Mar 23rd and 30th respectively. The maximum at this t ime were 5 at each of Towan Head, Camel Est. and St Austell Bay. At Carrick Roads there were 2 Feb 21st-24th but a dramatic increase to 10 by 26th. These moved quickly on for none were noted here after Mar 9th. Elsewhere few were noted in mid-March but there was a small spring movement . 5 were seen in Carbis Bay Mar 30th, 3 flew west off St Ives Apr 6th and there was 3 in St Austell Bay Apr 10th. There were ones and two 's at seven other sites. Late in April , 4 were in Carbis Bay, and 4 in Whitsand Bay. One remained at Whitsand until May 2nd and one of the Carbis Bay birds remained to May 7th. 3 flew west off Rame Head May 6th and a late bird flew west off Sennen May 27th. First for au tumn was one west at St Ives Sept 15th. Another flew west on 15th and was also reported from Pendeen. The only other Sept sighting was of one in St Austell Bay on 27th. With very few gales in October the species remained scarce with singles at Mounts Bay on 7th, and at St. Ives and Gurnards Head on 9th. Regular November reports came only from St Ives and St Austell Bay. At St Ives a total of 26 were noted flying west with a maximum of 18 Nov. 10th. At St Austell Bay numbers peaked at 6 on 27th with a decrease thereafter. The only other multiple occurrence was 3 at Loe Bar on 26th.

14

Presumably because of the exceptionally mild weather the species was unusually scarce in December with one at St Austell Bay apparently being the sole wintering individual. Elsewhere 6 flew west at To wan Head on 6th and there were single bird/single day sightings at Widemouth Bay, Camel Est . , St Ives, Mevagissey and Mounts Bay.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

In the first winter period there were records from 28 sites, 10 on the nor th coast and 18 on the south coast. In the second winter period there were records from 15 sites, 5 on the nor th coast and 10 on the south coast. 14 sites held birds in both winter periods. There were two inland occurrences - both simultaneous with the inland Red-throateds . One was present at Por th Res Feb l l th -27 th and one at Argal Res Feb 16th. There were the usual, regular large numbers in Gerrans and Veryan Bays, with monthly maxima as follows: Gerrans: Jan-12, Feb-8, Mar-21 , Apr-33 , May-8, June-1 , Aug-1 , Oct-5, Nov-10, Dec-24. Veryan: Jan-42, Feb-31, Mar-48, Apr-30, May-4, Jun -3 , Oct-7, Nov-4, Dec-2. The combined total at these two sites was regularly 40 to 50 birds, but 55 was the maximum Mar 11th. In St Austell Bay, where there were up to 3 birds Jan-Mar , there was an increase to 17 Apr 17th, which probably included birds dispersing from Gerrans /Veryan . The north coast February trend of recent years continues. 4 were off Bude Jan 30th, 3 at Camel Est Feb 3rd, 3 off East Pentire Feb 5th and 26 off Trevose Head Feb 26th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were regular reports from Mounts Bay -max 13 Feb 3rd and 9 Mar 11th, St Ives Bay - max 4 Feb 21st to Mar 2nd Helford Est - max 3 Feb 26th. There was a small influx early in April . 6 were seen flying west at Rosemullion Head on 4th, 3 were off Bude on 7th and 7 were in St Ives Bay on 13th. Further dispersal occurred along the south coast with 5 in Whitsand Bay on Apr 21st and one off Downderry the same day. In May, apar t from birds lingering at the regular sites there were 3 new birds at St Ives on 5th and 6th, one west off Por thgwarra on 16th, one off Looe on 17th and 3 in Whitsand Bay on 28th. 3 birds remained in Veryan Bay until Jun 7th, one in St Austell Bay until 13th and one in Gerrans Bay until 18th. This last bird may in fact have summered and would account for the extraordinarily early sighting here on Aug 16th. Apar t from this bird the next for au tumn was a single off Trevose Head Oct 2nd. 2 more were seen here Oct 7th but no more were seen in the county until 27th when the first return birds were in Veryan Bay. As with Red-throated, few were noted in November . Off St Ives a total of 21 passed west between Nov 10th and 15th with a max. of 15 on 10th. In the second winter period very few, apar t from 5 at Fa lmouth Bay Dec 8th, were reported until the last week of December. At this time 10 appeared in St Ives Bay on 22nd and 4 at Bude the same day. 7 flew nor th at Bude on 28th and 4 were seen in Mounts Bay on 29th.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

In the first winter period there were records from 28 sites, 8 on the north coast and 20 on the south coast. In the second winter period there were records from 27 sites, 9 on the nor th coast and 18 on the south coast. 22 sites held birds in both winter periods. There were two inland records; singles at Colliford Res. Jan 5th and Stithians Res. Nov 9th - Dec 11th.

15

With RL making exceptional efforts to monitor diver and grebe movements along the mid-south coast it is interesting to record the apparent preference of this species to winter in St Austell Bay as opposed to Veryan and Gerrans Bay, long favoured by Black-throated Divers. St Austell Bay monthly max: Jan 6, Feb 11, Mar 24, Apr 20, May 20, Oct 3, Nov 17, Dec 15. Other sites with regular reports in both winter periods: Camel Est: One to Apr 2nd. F rom Nov 2nd to year end with max of 5 Dec 31st. St Ives Bay: Noted to Apr 12th with max of 9 Feb 3rd and from Oct 10th with max of 11 Nov 10th and 17 Nov 15th. Mounts Bay: Noted to Apr 8th with max of 6 Jan 6th and Feb 3rd and from Nov 23rd with max of 3 Dec 23rd. Gerrans Bay: Noted to Apr 11th with max of 6 Mar 13th and from Nov 2nd with max of 5 Dec 31st. Veryan Bay: Noted to Mar 27th with max of 5 Jan 2nd and from Nov 2nd with max of 2 Dec 15th. Looe: Noted to Apr 8th with max of 12 Feb 2nd and from Dec 8th with a max of 2 on that date and Dec 18th. Elsewhere in the first winter period the max were 6 at Seaton Mar 10th, with 1 to 3 birds at several other sites. There were two very marked periods of migration in spring. The first occurred Apr 16th to 26th when about 44 'new' birds were reported including 6 at Gerrans Bay on 16th, 5 at Mounts Bay on 19th, 5 at Seaton, 4 at Rame Head and 3 in Whitsand Bay - all 21st, 3 in Veryan Bay on 24th and 16 in St Austell Bay on 25th. This last locality held 20 Apr 30th. Apart from up to 10 birds which lingered in St Austell Bay until May 22nd there were records of approximately 32 'new' birds during the month . These included 4 in St Ives Bay May 5th to 9th, 5 west at Rame Head on 6th, 5 more here on 9th, 3 in Carrick Roads on 19th and 6 flying south at Rosemullion Head on 25th. Last was one in Carrick Roads Jun 18th. The first in au tumn was one at Sennen Oct 5th followed by one flying west at Rame Head the next day. As with the other divers, records were very sparse until mid November. There were records of one to three birds at several casual sites, but most moved through quite quickly because apart from the regular sites above, only Towan Head and Lynher Est held wintering singles with 4 in Carrick Roads .

WHITE-BILLED DIVER — Very rare vagrant.

Sennen Cove: One picked up in poor condition Feb 19th was taken to Mousehole Bird Hospital where it died Mar 1st. The body was sent to British Museum. CCB. MPS. Although no description has been received, an excellent photograph appears in British Birds vol. 78 page 257. There is one previous record for mainland Cornwall - one at Marazion 11th to 19th April 1967. Accepted by BBRC.

LITTLE GREBE — Breeds in low numbers. Resident. Winter visitor.

Once again, the only breeding record came from Stithians Res. where a nest containing one egg was observed Jul 30th CNT and a pair with 4 young were seen Aug 30th SCH. Only 3 young were seen Sept 16th RS. At Long Rock Pool a pair were noted until Apr 5th but , as in previous years, were driven off by persistent attacks from a cob Mute Swan. BP. Whatever happened to all the breeding pairs reported in the B .T .O. Breeding Bird Survey of 1968 - 72? 13 pairs were proved, 2 probably and 1 possibly breeding during the survey years. First winter numbers were very low with the highest counts at Hayle Est. (as usual). There were 10 here Jan 16th to 20th with 9 remaining to Feb 22nd and lesser no's

16

thereafter. Elsewhere the max. were 5 at Camel Est . , 4 at each of Argal Res. , Percuil, St. Just in Roseland, Tresemple Pool and Fowey Est and lower no ' s at all the regular sites. A light spring passage occurred Mar 12th to 26th with singles at Colliford Res. , Siblyback Res. , and Par with 2 at Long Rock. In au tumn one at Crowdy Res Jul 30th was, perhaps, a migrant . This was followed by one at Tresemple Aug 3rd but very few others were reported until late September when the species became quite widespread. In the second winter period the max were again at Hayle, with counts of 10 Nov 16th and 12 Dec 15th. 10 were at Tresemple Nov 3rd but only one remained here Dec 8th. 10 were also noted at Lynher Est Nov 28th but here again there was a decrease with only one reported Dec 15th. At Percuil there were 9 Nov 19th to 26th with only 4 Dec 12th. Elsewhere the max. were 7 at St. Johns Lake and Drift Res. , 6 at Swanpool and Malpas , 5 at Camel Est., Stithians and Par , 4 at Tamar Lakes and St. Just in Roseland with 1 to 3 at 12 other sites.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE — Uncommon winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Probably the most welcome result of the February influx of waterfowl was the occurrence of a pair of Great Crested Grebe at College Res. which stayed to breed. One bird arrived Feb 3rd and there was an increase to 3 by Feb 16th. However, one bird moved on quickly because only two remained on 20th. A nest was built and two eggs laid. It is not known if either egg hatched, for no young were seen. One bird remained into 1986 with a second bird again present Nov 13th. BC. PMcC. SMC. SCH. RL. There is only one previous breeding record for Cornwall . In 1930 a pair reared three young at Tamar Lake. Certainly the optimism of recent years was not misplaced, but it will be interesting to see if the species can consolidate its position. Very few had over-wintered from 1984 but there was a very positive influx of birds during the hard weather. There were records from 19 localities. A few arrived Jan 20th to 23rd, but most appeared Feb 16th to 23rd. Over 30 birds were noted in the county on Feb 20th. The maximum at this time were 6 on the St Johns Lake /Tamar /Lynhe r Est complex Feb 3rd to 20th, 3 at Hayle Feb 17th and 18th, 3 in St Austell Bay Feb 20th, 7 at Camel Est Feb 20th, 3 at Towan Head Feb 22nd, 3 at Mounts Bay the same day, 4 at Loe Pool Feb 24th and 4 in Carrick Roads Feb 26th. Ones and twos were noted at Bussow Res. , Copperhouse , Whitsand Bay, Malpas , St Ives Bay, Drift Res., Cawsand Bay, Looe and Upper Tamar Res. Most had left by mid-March but singles lingered at Camel Est until Apr 2nd and Tamar Lakes until May 4th. One bird remained on the Lynher Est th roughout the summer and into 1986. First for au tumn was one at the Camel Est Jul 30th, but apar t from the College and Lynher birds there were no more until 2 at Camel Est Oct 25th. There was a small influx of singles Nov 16th - 23rd with singles reported from Stithians Res. , Par , Por thpean , Camel Est, St Johns Lake and a second bird at Lynher Est. Wintering birds were scarce with up to 4 at Lynher Est, possibly 2 different birds at St Johns Lake and singles at Upper Tamar Res. , Por thpean , St Just in Roseland and Carrick Roads .

RED-NECKED GREBE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

An average year with most birds arriving at the time of the mid-February freeze. St Austell Bay: The 1985 Por thpean bird noted until Mar 18th. One Dec 15th - 18th. RL. EJC. Falmouth Bay: singles Jan 8th, Feb 1st and 22nd. BC. SMC. PGA. One Nov 13th and Dec 8th. RL. CCB. Carrick Roads: one Feb 17th REWr. was possibly one of the above.

17

St Anthony Head: one Feb 24th GRW. MW. was also possibly one of the above. Carnsew Pool : one Feb 15th - 17th. DSF. SCH et al. Stithians Res: one Feb 16th to Mar 24th. REWr et al. Tamar Est: one Feb 18th EG. Colliford Res: one Feb 24th EG. St Ives Bay: one Mar 2nd, 2 Mar 17th to 30th CCB. LPW. GCH. SCH et al. Whitsand Bay: one Oct 19th SCM.

Other reports were received with inconclusive detail or no detail at all.

SLAVONIAN GREBE — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. In the first winter period there were records from 22 sites, 7 on the north coast and 11 on the south coast . There were records from 4 inland sites. In the second winter period there were records from 12 sites, only one on the north coast and 11 on the south coast . 9 sites held birds in bo th winter periods. There was a wider than normal scatter of records in mid to late February, including the inland records from Drift Res. , Por th Res. , Stithians Res and Upper Tamar Res. There were regular records in both winter periods at: St Austell Bay: Noted until Apr 10th with max of 10 Jan 30th and 9 Feb 20th. Noted from Oct 30th with a max of 6 Nov 28th and 9 Dec 17th. Gerrans Bay: Noted until Apr 9th with max of 8 Feb 26th to Mar 13th and 12 Mar 27th. Noted from Nov 27th with max of 5 Dec 15th. Camel Est: Noted until Mar 8th with max of 8 Jan 21st and Feb 20th with 9 Feb 22nd. Noted from Nov 26th with max of 4 on that date . Fa lmouth Bay: Noted until Mar 5th with max of 7 Feb 22nd and from Dec 8th with max 6 Dec 31st. Carrick Roads : Noted until Mar 7th with max of 6 Jan 28th but only a single at the end of the year. Looe: Noted until Mar 30th with max of 4 Feb 2nd and Mar 30th. Singles Dec 8th and 29th. Mounts Bay: Noted until Apr 10th with max of 4 Feb 26th and from Oct 27th with max of 3 Nov 23rd. Elsewhere in the first winter period and spring there were records from; St Ives Bay, max of 9 Mar 9th, Sennen Cove, max of 6 Mar 6th to 26th. There were 3 at each of St Johns Lake, and Towan Head, 2 at each of Carnsew Poo l , Maenpor th , Veryan Bay and Mevagissey with singles at East Pentire, Rame Head and Bude. Elsewhere in the second winter period there were 2 at each of Lynher Est. and Whitsand Bay with singles at Mevagissey and Veryan Bay.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Once again it has been necessary to omit a number of claims because of the lack of accompanying detail. Carrick Roads : one Jan 15th, 2 Feb 21st, 4 Feb 26th with 2 to Mar 2nd. BC. RL. * St Ives Bay: one Feb 6th CCB and Mar 2nd - 17th CCB DJB PKB et al. Carnsew Pool : one Feb 10th to 17th DSF EGe et al. This bird completed a remarkable nap hand of grebes present on the pool on 17th. Stithians Res: one Feb 12th SCH. Newlyn Harbour : one Feb 15th DJB DCB LPW. Par Bay: one Apr 24th - 27th RL. Veryan Bay: one May 14th RL. Lynher Est: one Sept 29th RWG. 2 Oct 11th to at least 26th. SCM. RS et al. one Nov 24th EG. Drift Res: one Sept 29th RDP. One Nov 10th into 1986 MPS et al. Dozmary Pool : one Oct 31st to Nov 10th DMY. JAd'EM. RMB.

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YELLOW-NOSED ALBATROSS — Exceptionally rare vagrant.

One seen 80 km south of Lizard Point at 49° 33 'N 05° 17'W on 29th April is the first record for the Western Palearctic. W.F. Curtis. Although the purist may argue that this is not a Cornish record, it must be remembered that this is within British territorial waters and Cornwall is the nearest county. If this report is not included here, where will it appear?

FULMAR — Breeds. Resident Dec.-Sept. Passage migrant.

For breeding details see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 126-130) In spring there was heavy passage off both coasts with the max; Rosemullion Head: 360 flew south in 2\ hours Mar 20th. Rumps Point : 300+ west Apr 8th. To wan Head: 200 west Apr 13th. 260 west Jun 9th and 400 west Jun 22nd. Navax Point : 556 west Apr 13th. St Ives: 500 west May 5th. In au tumn 500 per hour flew west off Towan Head Jul 9th and 150 per hour west Jul 29th. Despite heavy seabird movements off Por thgwarra in early au tumn the only significant passage of Fulmars was 400 Aug 4th. On Sept 3rd 350 flew west at Towan Head , 170 flew west at St Ives and 500 flew west at Por thgwarra . A further 200 were noted off Por thgwarra Sept 5th. One off Mevagissey Oct 4th was the only report for the mon th . In November there were 8 off Towan Head on 5th, 1 off St Ives on 10th and 20 at Trevose on 13th. 'Blue ' phase birds were reported from Towan Head on 4 dates from Jul 22nd to Sept 1st RJH SMC. and a single off Bude Aug 3rd. IK. Of the 360 birds seen off Rosemullion Head Mar 20th at least three were not LL phase. One was L phase, one L-D phase and one D or 'b lue ' phase. According to PMcC and BC this phase aspect is insufficiently reported. They estimate that something like 0 .4% are not LL phase at times of peak passage in SW approaches in Dec /Feb .

CORY'S SHEARWATER — Scarce passage migrant with occasional 'good' years.

Porthgwarra: Jul - 4 on 22nd and 4 on 28th Aug - 3 on 2rd, singles 4th and 5th, 13 on 15th, 2 on 16th, 1 on 20th, 1 on 24th, 3 on 26th, 520 on 28th, 12 on 29th and one on 30th. DSF. JAE. MS et it The total of Aug 28th is the second highest day total for the county - beaten only by 1202 off Por thgwarra on 11th Aug 1980. Looe: One feeding offshore Aug 11th SCM. Pendeen: 3 west Aug 31st PGA. DJC. M A H , MPS and 3 west Sept 3rd RA. P H . VRT. Cape Cornwall : 1 west Aug 31st MDR. St Ives: 1 west Aug 31st DSF and 2 west Sept 3rd. GJC. DSF. ARP. MPS. Towan Head: 1 west Sept 3rd. SMC.

GREAT SHEARWATER — Scarce passage migrant.

Navax Point : One west Apr 13th PAR. Only the second spring record for the county - the previous record being of one at Park Head 18th Apr 1980. Por thgwarra: Singles Jul 22nd, Jul 28th and Aug 3rd, 3 Aug 4th and 2 Aug 15th and 27th. CCB. DSF. P H . VRT. et al. Bude: 2 west Aug 3rd IK. Pendeen: 2 Aug 24th, 1 Aug 31st, 4 Sept 1st and 2 Sept 3rd. RA. P H . SH. KDS et al. St Ives: One Aug 31st, 4 Sept 1st and 2 Sept 3rd. DSF. A R P . et al. One Nov 2nd RT. et al.

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GREAT SHEAR WATERS — Pendeen, Cornwall, 24th Aug. 1985 Mark Weake

SHEARWATER Sp.

St Ives: One probably Cory ' s Aug 6th and 2 probably Great Aug 31st DSF. Rumps Point : One probably Great Aug 31st RS. Cape Cornwall : One probably Cory ' s Aug 31st MDR.

SOOTY SHEARWATER — Uncommon passage migrant. Occasional 'good' year.

Another exceptional year with numbers exceeding the records set as recently as 1983. The highest single day total was 351 off Por thgwarra Aug 4th with over 100 there on Aug 3rd and 11th. At St Ives 200 was exceeded twice and 100 once. At Pendeen 200 was exceeded once and 100 twice. There is of course much duplication, particularly at the better watched nor th coast headlands as birds pass first one and then another point . Por thgwarra : One west Jun 23rd. 79 west between Jul 21st and 28th max of 33 Jul 22nd. In Aug 734 west with max of 111 on 3rd, 351 on 4th, 100 on 11th and 49 on 15th. There were records on 14 other days in Aug . In Sept 123 flew west with max of 96 on 18th. Last were 6 on 21st. Towan Head: 4 west Jul 20th, 1 west Jul 22nd, 9 west in August and 68 west in Sept. with max of 42 on 14th. St Ives: 46 Jul 27th. 280 west in August with max 211 on 5th and 38 on 31st. 568 west in Sept. with max 81 on 1st, 252 on 3rd, 171 on 14th and 38 on 17th. Pendeen: 6 Jul 30th, 63 Aug 24th, 105 Aug 25th and 53 Aug 31st. In Sept. 686 west with max 93 on 1st, 289 on 3rd, 147 on 24th and 130 on 15th. Cape Cornwall : One west Sept 1st, 143 west Sept 15th. Elsewhere there were records from (with totals in parenthesis); Rame Head (10), Rosemullion Head (3), Mevagissey (3) and singles at Looe, St Anthony Head and Black Head on the south coast . Gurnards Head (17), Trevose Head (5), Rumps Point (4), West Pentire and singles at Botallack Head , St Agnes and Godrevy on the nor th coast. Singles were seen from RMV Scillonian Aug 31st and Oct 10th - which was also the latest record this year.

M A N X SHEARWATER — Passage migrant. Feeding parties in summer.

First noted; 5 off Bude on the very late date of Apr 2nd. Heavy passage was noted in the first and second weeks of April with max; 250 west in one hour off Cot Valley Apr 8th, 100 west off Navax Point and 600 west

20

off Rumps Point the same day. 3000 west at St Ives Apr 13th and 300 west off Towan Head the same day. On Jun 9th 1100 were 'g rounded ' by fog off Towan Head . On Jun 22nd 5000 were noted off Bude but only 400 off Towan Head and only 200 off St Ives the same day. 328 were counted off Rame Head the same day. In au tumn there was a reasonable passage off Por thgwar ra coinciding with the Sooty Shearwater movement . Peak numbers were 1500 Aug 4th and 2000+ Aug 5th. In Sept. heavy passage was noted on several days, particularly off the nor th

On the 1st 600 were seen off Towan Head with 5000 off Pendeen. On 3rd 1200 off Towan Head, a masive 18000 off St Ives and 6000 off Pendeen. At the last named site there were a further 9000 on 5th and 6000 on 15th. In November there were singles off West Pentire on 8th, Trevose Head on 11th and 5 off Towan Head on 5th. At St Ives there were 15 on 5th, 3 on 10th, 2 on 14th and 1 on 20th. There were no December records.

BALEARIC SHEARWATER — Uncommon passage migrant.

Western Mediterranean race of Manx Shearwater - ' P . p. maure tanicus ' Rosemullion Head: singles Mar 20th, May 25th and Sept 18th. Por thgwarra : 3 Jul 28th. 69 west in August with max 12 on 3rd and 45 on 4th. Bude: 2 Aug 2nd. St Ives: 9 Aug 5th and singles Aug 25th and 31st. 20 west in Sept with max 8 on 3rd. One Oct 9th, 2 Nov 5th and 4 Nov 10th. Looe: one Aug 11th. Towan Head: 18 west between Aug 12th and Nov 5th with max 3 Sept 14th. West Pentire: 2 Aug 25th and one Sept 3rd. Pendeen: 10 west between Aug 31st and Nov 5th with max 4 Sept 14th. Rame Head: 3 west Sept 14th and 4 west Oct 6th. Mevagissey: one Oct 3rd. Trevose Head: one Oct 7th. RMV Scillonian: one Oct 12th.

STORM PETREL — Uncommon passage migrant. Feeding parties in summer.

Towan Head: In May - 21 on 20th, 26 on 24th and 11 on 26th. On Jun 22nd 176 moved west between 0700 and 0930 hours and between 1230 and 1530 hrs. Another 112 moved west between 1600 and 2130 hours , but at 1100 hours at least 300 were observed feeding off the sewage outfall . One Jun 23rd, 2 Jul 21st, 3 Jul 22nd. In Aug - 14 on 2nd, 4 on 12th, 31 on 14th, 80 on 15th and 2 on 31st. SMC. EJC. JH. et al. Looe: one May 25th SCM. Rosemullion Head: 2 May 25th, one Aug 4th and 10 Aug 11th. BC. PMcC. St Ives: 10 Jun 22nd, 30 Aug 5th and 3 Sept 3rd. JD . DSF. RS. et al. Pendeen: one Jun 22nd, 2 Sept 3rd. CCB. P H . VRT. Porthgwarra : 2 Jun 23rd, 2 Jul 22nd and 23rd, 118 west in August with max 29 on 3rd, 38 on 4th and 39 on 15th. DSF. et al. Botallack Head: one Jul 22nd MPS. Rame Head: 4 Aug 2nd and on Aug 11th JFB. BRF. Bude: one Aug 4th IK. Black Head: 60 west Aug 4th RL. Mevagissey: one Oct 6th RL.

LEACH'S PETREL — Scare passage migrant (mainly autumn).

Towan Head: 4 west Jun 22nd GJC. 2 west Sept 3rd JH. RL. SR. St Ives: 14 west Sept 3rd DSF. GJC. MPS. 13 Sept 5th CCB. DSF. JFB. one Oct 9th TRC and one Nov 10th P H A . Pendeen: 5 Sept 3rd RA. P H . VRT. one Sept 5th VRT. and one Sept 15th P H A . JFB. BRF. AHJH.

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The Towan Head birds were exceptionally early but did occur with a heavy movement of Storm Petrels. Otherwise a disappointing year.

GANNET — Passage migrant. Winter and summer visitor.

Very little information received. Early in the year the only significant movement involved 800 off Dodman Head Jan 30th. In spring the max were 250 off Rumps Point Apr 8th. Off the south coast 90 passed west at Rame Head May 6th. Apar t from 250 off St Ives Jun 22nd there were few records with no report from Towan Head the same day - presumably everyone was too busy counting Storm Petre ls ' . In au tumn 500 were noted off Por thgwarra Aug 31st. There were 350 at Towan Head and 1000 at Pendeen the following day. Further counts at Towan Head produced totals of 3500 Sept 3rd and 3660 Nov 5th. 420 per hour moved west off Looe Sept 14th. On Dec 21st 565 were seen off Mevagissey in 2\ hours . Very unusual was one off Towan Head on Sept 16th. This bird was pure white all over with the bill, legs and feet yellow and the iris blue. SMC.

CORMORANT — Breeds. Resisdent.

For breeding details see Breeding Seabirds Survey (pages 130/131) During the year there were the usual inland records witn max of 10 at Colliford Aug 17th, 14 at Tamar Lakes Sept 2nd and 16 flying south east at Halvana Oct 5th. Elsewhere the max were; Tamar Est: 65 Sept 12th. Camel Est: 54 Dec 18th. Up to 20 were noted roosting in a traditional day-time site at Malpas . At Malpas on Jun 23rd one caught a large eel which it swallowed after 5 minutes. However, the fish kept coming back up into the throat . The bird then caught another large fish, perhaps 21b to 31bs in weight which was also swallowed. The effect of this was the inability of the bird to swim properly and it emerged onto the bank. It was then met by a Great Black-backed Gull which forced it to regurgitate the eel. The eel proved to be larger than the gull. The fish was not.regurgitated, but the bird was still unable to fly 4 hours later! RL.

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SHAG — Breeds. Resident.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabirds Survey (pages (131/134) Max N o ' s : Carlyon Bay: 80 Jan 1st. 70 Oct 22nd. Falmouth Bay: 350 Jan 18th. 83 Oct 9th, 190 Dec 31st. Cawsand Bay: 86 Jan 22nd. Towan Head: 40 Sept 1st, 50 Sept3rd, 70 Sept 17th, 56 Oct 4th. All west. Navax Point : 92 west Sept 1st. Trevose Head: 55 Sept 18th, 45 Sept 25th. Mevagissey: 120 west in 2\ hours Nov 9th.

BITTERN — Rare winter visitor.

Marazion: one Jan 7th to Mar 1st. LPW. EGe. CCB. JH. et al. one Nov 6th to Dec 11th. CCB. MPS. BP. et al. Par Beach Pool : one Jan 12th to Feb 19th. PGA. BHd. SMC et al. Loe Pool : 2 Jan 12th JSG. One of these birds was picked up and taken home, apparently exhausted. It was fed on ear thworms and grubs and was sufficiently recovered to be released the following day. One Dec 28th JSG. Drift Res: one Jan 13th. RJP. TP. MPS. Pillaton Mill: one walking along a lane Jan 26th EB. PS. and one Feb 3rd RHd. Lostwithiel: one Jan 27th to Feb 9th. GJC. IMB. PSg. Near Retallack: one standing in the road Jan 28th. D. Bazeley per SMC.

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Por th Res: 2 Jan 29th to Feb 2nd with one remaining to Feb 23rd. SMC. BTSC. EJC. et al. St John : one near the sewage works Mar 24th A H J H . This is almost certainly the highest number of sightings in a year of the species this century. Any occurrence of more than one bird is noteworthy.

NIGHT HERON — Rare vagrant.

Sennen: an adult visiting a goldfish pond had been present for about a week prior to May 10th. It remained here for several weeks before apparently being shot and injured. It was then taken to Mousehole Bird Hospital where it recovered and was released at Marazion Marsh where it was seen alive and well on Jul 5th. P H . MPS.

The 14th county mainland record.

SQUACCO HERON — Very rare vagrant. Bude: an adult Apr 10th to May 23rd. GPS. JCP. TJD. FHCK. IK. et al. One of the stars of the spring, this bird was seen by hundreds of watchers. About 18 were recorded prior to 1900, but this century there have been singles only in 1907 and 1981. Accepted by BBRC.

CATTLE EGRET — Very rare vagrant.

Looe: one Dec 5th to 8th. AS . JS. Probably the same bird was later seen in Dorset and then Somerset . The fourth county mainland record - all since 1980 and all very late in the year.

LITTLE EGRET — Vagrant. Has 'wintered'.

Marazion: 2 Apr 18th. TMC. BKM. Gannel Est: one Apr 21st to 26th. (but may have been present for at least a week previously). SMC. A D C . H M C . BTSC. GHT. et al. Tresillian River: one May 29th to Jun 24th. EGe. IMB et al. Fowey Est: one Jun 15th to Sept 3rd. IMB. FMC. RG. Assuming that these were all different the county mainland total now stands at about 30. There has been a t remendous upsurge of records in recent years and the species has now occurred in Cornwall in each of the last 6 years. The Marazion, Fowey and Gannel birds accepted by BBRC.

GREY HERON — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant.

A considerably more comprehensive coverage of breeding sites was achieved this year and full details are listed: In south east Cornwall the Sheviock heronry no longer exists SCM but at Looe 7 occupied nests were counted at Trenant W o o d on Apr 7th.SCM. On Bodmin Moor two nests were found in conifers at Halvana on Mar 15th JAdEM. On the Fal complex, RDP counted 19 nests, 10 of which were occupied, at Lambe Creek on May 12th. At Borlase Wood , Philleigh 6 out of 9 nests were occupied Apr 20th RDP. At Percuil EMP. LSP. located 5 occupied nests in F e b / M a r . At Halwyn, Restronguet a new heronry is reported to be forming but no details have been submitted, per MPV. On the Helford Est PMcC reports 3 + nests at Polwheveral and 3 to 10 nests at Merthen. At the latter he explains that he has been unable to get close enough to make an accurate count but bases his estimate on the amoun t of noise and number of birds visiting the site. At Loe Pool two juveniles were seen Jun 15th suggesting breeding nearby. JSG. At Marazion Marsh CCB reports that possibly 10 young were raised from 6 nests, but BP conservatively estimates 6 young from 5 nests. Finally, the Camel Est heronry at Pinskin Creek held 10-12 occupied nests in April

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and 5 juveniles were seen here Jul 31st. TKS. KDn. PJD. GJC. Heronries for which no information has been received for several years include; Tamar Lake, Bude Canal , St Johns Lake, Par Marsh, Tregothnan and Trelissick. Does anyone have any details? There were some large numbers reported this year with max of 40 at Lynher Est. On Jan 1st, 3 0 + at Malpas M a r / A p r , 24 at Turnaware Mar 9th, 22 at Fowey Est on Jun 15th and 21 at St Johns Lake Sept 21st. In the Upper Fowey Valley the species was noted on 74 dates with a max of 3 Mar

WHITE STORK — Rare vagrant.

Marazion: one May 4th flew up from the reedbed and travelled east. JT. HP. KF. The 18th county mainland record.

SPOONBILL — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor.

Lynher Est: The 1984 bird was last noted Feb 26th. Presumably the same bird returned Oct 25th and remained into 1986. SCM et al. The sixth consecutive winter for the species on this estuary.

MUTE SWAN — Breeds. Resident (declining?). Moulting herds in autumn. Much improved coverage of breeding this year with the following details received: At the first four sites two pairs are known to have nested. At each site one pair raised the number of young shown, but in every case the second nest was unsuccess­ful. Bude Canal - 4, Millbrook Lake - 7, Lynher Est. - 5, East Looe River - 6. At the following sites single pairs nested and raised the number of young shown: Polr idmouth - 1, Par Beach Pool - 7, St Andrews Pool , Par - 4, Caerhays - 2, Lamorran Pond - 6, Tresillian - 4, College Res - 8, Argal Res - 4, Stithians Res - 1, Pendarves Nature Reserve - 4, Helston Park Lake - 7, Loe Pool - 3. At the Camel Est where there has been a noticeable decrease over the last ten years three nests were built. At Amble Dam 2 young were raised, the first successful breeding here for several years. At Wadebridge a nest was built but was washed away. A second nest was built and 5 young hatched, but all perished. At Polbrock a pair were successful. Unsuccessful nests were also reported t: St John - 7 eggs laid, flooded. West Looe River. St Just in Roseland - 5 eggs Apr 18th but all gone by Apr 20th. Strong smell of fox, with fox droppings and swans feathers. Froe Creek - nest believed vandalised. Long Rock Pool - nest flooded by flood prevention scheme!! Other nests were reported from: Trelissick, Swanpool and Gweek but success (or lack of it) is not known. Max. No ' s Hayle Est: 27 Jan 10th. 33 Dec 15th. Par : 17 Jan 29th and 30th. Fowey Est: 26 Mar 5th and Nov 3rd. Devoran: 17 Mar 7th. 15 Nov 10th. Looe: 15 Mar 16th, 19 Dec 7th, 34 Dec 14th, 41 Dec 22nd and 47 Dec 26th. Malpas: 16 Nov 10th. 29 Dec 19th. St Johns Lake: 24 Sept 22nd. Unusual records: Redmoor: a first winter bird Jan 31st. Colliford Res: 2 Apr 17th to 23rd. 3 Aug 22nd to Sept 6th. One dead by 15th but 2 remaining to Oct 23rd and one to Nov 17th. RMV Scillonian: 1 sitting on the sea approx 1.5 hours sailing time out of St Marys -no date given.

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BEWICK'S SWAN — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Hayle Est: an adult Oct 30th SMC. LW. EJC. RT. was almost certainly the same bird seen flying over Copperhouse later the same day LPW. Stithians Res: one Nov 10th GRW. MW. Another very poor year.

WHOOPER SWAN — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Drift Res: an adult Nov 6th to 12th was joined by another on 13th. One remained to 19th and 2 juvs joined it on 20th. All 3 stayed until 28th. CCB. MPS. SR. LPW. JGT. Hayle Est: 2 Nov 10th MSW. Loe Pool : 2 imms Nov 10th GRW. MW. Hayle Kimbro Pool : 2 imms Nov 12th to 19th. On the last date they were joined by an adult . EGe. On Nov 20th an adult and another swan flew East from the pool . The second swan appeared to be the same size and structure as the adult but perhaps slightly smaller with a Bewicks's-type bill. Calls of bo th Whooper and Bewick's were heard. BC. Devoran: imm. Nov 13th to 24th. MCT. TMC. AS. Colliford Res: adult Nov 17th RMB. JAdEM. Dozmary Pool : adult Nov 17th to Dec 27th JAdEM. CB. RS. et al. Copperhouse: juv. flew East Nov 28th. LPW. Upper Tamar Res: 3 (one adult) Nov 28th. GPS. A much better year, but obviously many records refer to the same, wandering birds.

GREYLAG GOOSE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Pendeen: one western race Nov 11th. MPS. Hayle Kimbro Pool : one Nov 19th and 20th. BC. EGe.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

Stithians Res: 3 (2 adults and an immature) of the Greenland race A. a. flavirostris. Jan 10th SMC. EJC. Camel Est: 4 (2 adults) Feb 4th IMB and an immature bird Dec 2nd to 23rd. ML. DJ. GJC. Crowdy Res: 2 flew west Oct 9th. JADEM. DW. Upper Tamar Res: adult of the Siberian race A. a. albifrons Nov 18th SCM and an immature of the Greenland race the same day. GPS. The imm. stayed and was joined by another Dec 12th with both remaining into 1986. They were joined by an adult Dec 28th. TJD. IK.

GREY GOOSE Sp.

Swanpool: one flew south-east Jan 19th. PMcC. Sandymouth, Bude: 3 flew south Jan 31st. IK. Tresillian: one flew upstream Dec 14th. EGe.

LESSER SNOW GOOSE — Very rare vagrant.

Par Beach: 3 blue phase birds flew east Apr 28th. SMC. ABR. These birds were very noisy, calling incessantly and very wary. They flew in high from the west and appeared to be planing down to land on the sea, however a woman appeared on the beach and seemed to startle the birds, because they gained height again, circled the beach twice and flew off. The first county mainland record of apparently wild birds.

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Hybrid Goose

Hybrids apparent ly showing some characteristics of blue phase Snow Goose were noted at Hayle Millpond during February, at Crowdy Res. Sept 7th and on the Lynher Est . from Nov 15th into 1986. The Crowdy and Lynher records may refer to the same bird, which was also recorded in Devon in October . Although originally thought to be a pure Snow Goose, it was eventually seen at close range by SCM who considers that it was possibly a Snow Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid.

C A N A D A GOOSE — Breeds. Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Crowdy Res: A pair raised 7 young. Numbers during the first winter period were low with a max. of 9 Feb 27th and 11 Mar 5th. There was an increase from early June when 26 were present on 8th. This increase coincided with a total lack of records from Tamar Lakes and may have included birds from that site. Tamar Lakes: No report of breeding. Max . N o ' s 17 J an 16th, 21 Mar 14th, 32 Oct 12th. Bude: One flew nor th Apr 5th. Colliford Res: 5 Apr 12th, 6 Apr 17th to 23rd, 2 Apr 28th and 5 May 12th. Upper Fowey Valley: 5 flew nor th Apr 19th and 3 flew nor th Apr 23rd. Dozmary Poo l : 2 Apr 25th. The above records almost certainly refer to the same wandering birds. The next 3 records probably relate to birds from the Lynher Est flock where there was a max of 29 Jan 10th and 41 Dec 15th. Polbathic : one Feb 15th. Landulph: 39 Oct 5th, 20 Oct 7th. St Johns Lake: 3 Oct 21st, 1 Nov 6th. Elsewhere there were singles at Drift Res: Feb 15th, Helston Park Lake: May 8th into 1986. 2 flew south west at St Blazey: May 13th and 3 flew west at Mevagissey Oct 8th. These records reflect a considerable increase in the county in recent years and one wonders how long it will be before the species reaches pest proport ions , as it has done in other areas. Five small birds at the Lynher Est Feb 23rd were reported as showing characteristics of the race B. c. tavernerii. They were not seen again and no description has been submit ted. P H A . RWG.

BARNACLE GOOSE — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Ruan Lanihorne: The 1984 bird was last noted Feb 23rd. A A . RL. et al. The bird was wearing a ring, number 2K and enquiries reveal that it was a free-flying escapee from Slimbridge Wildfowl Trust . The bird, a male, had returned to Slimbridge by 17th July 1985, when it was caught there. Dr Myrfyn Owen. SMC. Por thgwarra : One Oct 16th. DSF.

BRENT GOOSE — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Another good year with noticeable arrivals in mid-February and mid-November. It is surprising that there is not yet a regular wintering flock in the county. Elsewhere there has been a huge increase in the size of wintering flocks, most noticeable locally on the Exe Est. where thousands now winter. Surely, the b i rds ' favourite food, eel grass, is not that scarce in Cornwal l . The first set of records refer to dark-bellied birds or birds not specifically identified as to race: Camel Est: 1 J an 5th to Feb 3 rd . 2 Feb 12th. 3 Feb 16th. One Dec 1st to 4th. Hayle Est: 2 Jan 4th. 9 Jan 20th. One Feb 3rd. 1 Dec 3rd to 1986 but 2 Dec 26th-27th. Copperhouse: 9 J an 20th (The Est . birds) to Feb 2nd. 10 Feb 3rd to 24th. 6 Feb 25th to Mar 4th. Carnsew Pool : 6 Mar 6th. (The Copperhouse birds).

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Whitsand Bay: 1 Jan 13th. 1 Dec 12th and 29th. Millbrook: 1 Jan 13th to 20th. 1 very tame bird Nov 15th into 1986. St Ives: 1 Jan 29th. 3 west Nov 2nd. East Pentire: 1 Feb 5th. Par : 1 Feb 5th. 2 Oct 20th. 9 Nov 24th. 4 Dec 8th. 1 Dec 9th. Carrick Roads: 4 Feb 17th. Godrevy: 10 Feb 18th. Por thpean: 1 Feb 19th and 20th. Carbis Bay: 10 Feb 20th (Probably the Godrevy birds). St Johns Lake: singles Feb 24th, May 6th, Oct 20th with 2 Nov 23rd and 3 Nov 24th. Mounts Bay: 1 Sept 21st to Oct 2nd. 2 Oct 18th. 3 Nov 20th and 21st. 8 Nov 23rd. 1 Dec 2nd. Trevose Head: 4 Nov 1st. Widemouth Bay: 6 flew north east Nov 23rd. Carlyon Bay: 5 flew west Nov 23rd. Bude: 1 Dec 28th. 3 flew south Dec 31st. Light-bellied birds were recorded as follows: Rosemullion Head: 11 offshore Apr 4th. BC. PMcC. St Johns Lake: 26 Sept 19th RWG. Looe: 3 Sept 22nd AHJH. Par : 1 Sept 23rd to 27th. SMC. FMC. RL. GRW. MW. St Ives: 2 Nov 15th. DSF. The 26 at St Johns Lake is by far the largest gaggle of this race seen in Cornwall .

SHELDUCK — Breeds, Resident, Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Breeding reports from: Upper Tamar Res: 2 young seen Jun 1st. Colliford Res: 5 young reared. Camel Est: max of 19 young seen on Jun 10th. Copperhouse: 9 young hatched. Hayle Est: broods of 3, 7 and 8 reared. Devoran: at least 2 young Aug 22nd. Restronguet: 6 young Jul 13th. Ruan Lanihorne: 5 broods totalling 26 young Jun 8th. Further broods of 10 and 3 Jun 10th. Truro River: 30 young Jul 13th. Gerrans Bay: 5 young seen Jun 5th. St John : 5 young Jul 1st. Lynher Est: broods of 10 and 8 May 17th. Max No ' s St Johns Lake: 204 Jan 7th. 388 Jan 30th. 243 Mar 10th. Camel Est: 254 Jan 23rd. 246 Feb 27th. 79 Dec 4th. Truro River: 200 Jan 24th. 211 Feb 17th. 210 Apr 5th. Hayle Est: 124 Feb 22nd. 127 Apr 5th. 57 Dec 28th. Ruan Lanihorne: 180 Mar 9th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were 50 at Tresillian River Feb 25th, 73 at Tamar Est. , Mar 12th and 30 at Devoran Apr 6th. There were reports of lesser numbers from several other sites.

RUDDY SHELDUCK — Vagrant. Escapee?

Upper Tamar Res: one with 2 Shelduck Apr 14th. 2 May 2nd. TJD. Duckpool , Nr. Bude: one May 2nd. TJD. One was also reported from Upper Tamar Res in au tumn 1984. Where are they coming from? Assuming that the Duckpool bird was the same as the second Upper Tamar bird, the county mainland total now stands at 12.

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M A N D A R I N DUCK — Rare passage migrant. Feral release. Escapee?

Par Beach Pool : The drake first noted Aug 24th 1983 was last noted Feb 3rd. It is believed to have perished in the freeze. A very shy female was seen here Nov 1st. SMC. LW. Millbrook Lake: a drake Sept 9th and Oct 27th. JAdEM. BW. Lynher Est: a drake Oct 5th and a female Nov 10th - both free flying. SCM.

WIGEON — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Due to the January cold snap, the species was more evident than for several years. Hayle Est: 597 Jan 3rd increasing to 800 Jan 8th, 1180 Jan 10th and 1200 by Jan 20th. There were still 1150 here on 25th but thereafter the flock dispersed quite rapidly. 750 were noted Jan 31st, but only 316 remained on Feb 12th with 146 Feb 27th and 23 Mar 5th. In the second winter period 152 Oct 6th increased to 300 Oct 23rd and 500 Nov 3rd. The size of the flock rocketed to 1000 Nov 24th, 1200 Dec 8th and 1500 Dec 22nd. Lynher Est: 650 Jan 10th. 1030 Jan 14th. In the second winter there were 140 Sept 27th. 323 Oct 29th, 950 Nov 1st and 500-600 to the end of the year. Camel Est: 300 Jan 7th increasing to 900 Jan 9th and 1000 Jan 11th to 14th. Numbers declined to 550 Jan 23rd and 110 Feb 13th, however there was another increase at the time of the second cold spell with 360 present Feb 20th. There were 141 Nov 21st and 280 Dec 4th. Ruan Lanihorne: 325 Jan 6th. 400 Jan 16th. 450 Jan 24th. 300 Dec 1st. Colliford Res: 200 Jan 6th. 350 Jan 11th. 95 Dec 15th. Stithians: 440 Jan 8th. 500 Jan 9th with lesser no ' s thereafter. 130 Nov 18th, 160 Dec 20th and 200 Dec 26th. Upper Tamar Res: 600 Jan 16th but only 200 Jan 31st. 180 Dec 1st. Elsewhere in the first winter there were large flocks at; River Tiddy - 100 Jan 8th, Crowdy Res - 110 Jan 13th and Loe Pool - 300 Jan 18th. There were reports from many other sites of up to 100 birds but the most unusual was 8 at Bussow Res on Feb 13th. This was JBB and SB's first record here in 20 years. Last in spring was a female at Lynher Est Apr 16th and the first in au tumn were 5 at the same locality Aug 17th.

G A D W A L L — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Many more than normal , especially in the first winter period when there was an influx in the second and third weeks of January and a second, smaller influx in mid-February . Regular reports were received for the following sites: P a r / S t Andrews Pool : a drake th roughout the year commuted between the two pools . 5 Jan 11th and up to 3 until Feb 5th. Stithians Res: noted until J an 26th, max 8 Jan 1st and from Oct 27th with 4 Dec 11th. Hayle Est: noted until Apr 28th, max 14 Jan 25th. A drake Aug 31st was the first for the county in au tumn . Noted from Nov 11th with max 4 Nov 17th and Dec 10th. Drift Res: noted Jan 6th to Mar 26th with max 22 Jan 26th and from Nov 18th with max 6 Dec 7th into '86 . Camel Est: noted Jan 7th to Feb 23rd with max 13 Feb 20th to 22nd and from Nov 4th with max 14 Dec 4th. Colliford Res: noted from Jan 11th to f e b 23rd with max 7 on the first date and from Oct 25th with max 2 Dec 15th. Po r th Res: noted Jan 23rd to Feb 18th with max 8 Jan 24th. 3 Nov 20th. Marazion: noted Jan 6th to Apr 4th with max 20 Feb 12th and from Oct 14th with max 6 Nov 20th to 27th.

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Elsewhere, in the first winter period, regular reports were received from: Tamar Lakes: max 6 Jan 2nd to Feb 3rd. College Res: max 5 Jan 21st. Loe Poo l : max 5 Feb 2nd. Sennen: max 4 Jan 19th and Copperhouse : max 3 Feb 14th. Single day sightings at Siblyback (2), Calenick (4), Redmoor (2) and Tamar Est (3). The only evidence of spring migrat ion were up to 3 at Colliford Apr 20th to 29th. In the second winter period, apar t from the aforementioned there were regular reports only from Tamar Est. where the max was 4 Dec 27th. Single day sightings at Hayle Kimbro Pool (1), Dozmary Pool (2), Retallack (1) and Sennen (1).

TEAL — Occasionally breeds. Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Huge numbers were reported from several localities in the first winter period with the Hayle Es t /Copperhouse gathering, the largest-ever number in the county. Most birds arrived Jan 8th to 13th, but a general decrease after this date until mid-February when there was a further, smaller influx. Spring migrants were very scarce. No breeding was reported. Birds were scarce in au tumn and the second winter period until mid-October when a few moved into the county followed by a more general arrival in late November . Maximum numbers: Hayle Es t /Copperhouse : 455 Jan 3rd increasing to 1080 Jan 10th. Decrease to 850 Jan 20th and 177 Jan 17th. Increase to 305 Feb 21st, but decrease again after this date . 40 Sept 14th increasing to 80 Oct 13th, 100 Oct 27th, 269 Nov 16th and 400 Dec 8th. Camel Est: 45 Jan 7th increasing to 330 Jan 9th but then a decrease. 75 Dec 4th. Crowdy Res: 30 Jan 4th increasing to 130 Jan 13th. Decrease to 10 Feb 12th but up to 100 the following day. 100 Dec 1st. Colliford Res: 157 Jan 5th increasing to 400 Jan 11th. Decrease to 160 Feb 5th but increase again to 218 Feb 13th and 254 Feb 17th. 100 Sept 7th, 127 Oct 12th, 204 Nov 17th and 258 Dec 15th. Drift Res: 89 Jan 6th increasing to 150 Jan 8th. Lynher Est: 220 Jan 8th. 7 Sept 16th and 250 Dec 1st. Stithians Res: 150 Jan 8th to 10th. 68 Nov 30th increasing to 120 Dec 23rd and 150 Dec 26th. Tresillian: 110 Jan 23rd. Calenick: 230 Jan 27th. 110 Feb 25th. 50 Nov 4th, 220 Dec 4th and 300 Dec 21st. Hayle Kimbro Pool : 150 Nov 19th.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL — Vagrant.

A drake showing characteristics of the Nor th American race of Teal , A. c. carolinensis was noted at Stithians Res Dec 26th into 1986. S C H . Accepted by BBRC.

MALLARD — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Breeding reports were received for; Crowdy Res, Colliford Res, Mil lbrook, St Enodoc Golf Course, Camel Est, Pa r Beach Pool , St Andrews Poo l , Pentewan, St Just in Roseland, Boscawen Park , Pencalenick P o n d and Loe Poo l . Most reports were of single pairs , but at Colliford about 25 pairs bred with a total of clOO pairs for Bodmin Moor as a whole. JAdEM. At Pa r 2 0 + broods were noted with a further 12 to 20 broods at St Andrews . At Pentewan 12 + broods were reared and at Loe Pool 8 pairs bred. As with other dabbling duck there were incursions mid-January and February .

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Maximum numbers : Par Beach Pool : 80 Jan 27th. 100+ Oct 1st. Camel Est: 120 Jan 9th. 113 Aug 19th, 90 Dec 4th. Colliford Res: 85 Jan 11th. 230 Jan 13th. 200 Feb 3rd. 300 Aug 17th. 324 Sept 14th. 327 Oct 13th. 405 Dec 15th. Loe Pool : 206 Jan 12th. 300 Jan 13th. 254 Sept 20th. Crowdy Res: 96 Jan 13th. 100 Feb 13th. 127 Feb 21st. 106 Aug 21st. 208 Aug 25th. 250 Oct 5th. 171 Dec 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 122 Jan 14th. 170 Aug 16th. Lynher Est: 220 Jan 14th. 250 Sept 7th. No other site held more than 100 birds in the first winter period, but in the second half of the year the following were reported; 115 at East Looe River Sept 14th, 150 at Tresillian Nov 10th, 400 at Tamar Est Dec 1st and 100 at Stithians Sept 27th to Oct 26th with 120 Oct 12th. A strange report came from PJD and RP who found seven eggs in a roadside hedge nest at St Tudy. The Mallard eggs had been laid on top of 3 Pheasant eggs which had been pecked open. The duck eggs were cold and appeared to have been abandoned .

PINTAIL — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Has decreased.

The following breeding information is of considerable interest because this is a nationally rare breeding species. Some years ago a pinioned pair were released onto a man-made pool near Tresillian. They have bred each year and the free-flying young have dispersed about June and returned in August . In 1984, up to 14 adults and several broods of duckling were present, but in 1985 there were evidently fewer with young thought to have been predated by mink. On 11th and 12th May at least two drakes, four females and broods of five and two were noted. RL. By far the largest influx for many years was reported this year with most arriving Jan 5th to 17th and Feb 15th to 17th. Noted in both winter periods at the following sites: Lynher Est: noted until Feb 27th with max 38 Jan 10th and 11th. 92 Feb 16th EG, is believed to be the largest single gathering in the county this century. Noted from Sept 27th with max 18 Oct 26th and Dec 18th. St Johns Lake: Noted Jan 27th to Mar 10th with max 22 Jan 30th. 6 Oct 5th and a. single drake Oct 12th. (No doubt , birds displaced from the Lynher Est). Stithians Res: noted until Feb 22nd with max 5 on last date . A female Nov 2nd-16th. Marazion: noted Jan 5th to Feb 16th with max 3 Jan 16th to 19th and Feb 16th. A female Nov 29th. Camel Est: noted Jan 7th to Feb 20th with max 3 Feb 15th to 20th. A female Nov 30th. Tamar Lakes. 11 Jan 16th. 5 Jan 30th. Noted from Nov 10th with max 4 Dec 12th. Por th Res: 2 Jan 23rd. 2 Nov 24th and one Dec 6th. Loe Pool : 5 Feb 10th, 6 Feb 16th, 2 Nov 23rd. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were up to 5 at Drift Jan 6th to 30th, up to 4 at Hayle Est Jan 17th to Feb 25th, a drake at Polurr ian Jan 17th, up to 4 at Swanpool Jan 17th to 19th, a drake at P a r / S t Andrews Pool Jan 19th to Feb 24th, 2 drakes at Gannel Est Jan 20th, 4 flew west at Gerrans Bay Jan 22nd, a pair at Whitecross (Newquay) Feb 3rd, 3 at Devoran Feb 6th, a pair at Redmoor Feb 20th, a female at Colliford Feb 24th and in spring there were 2 at Ruan Lanihorne Apr 1st. In the second winter period there were single day sightings at: Cot Valley a drake flew nor th Oct 31st and at Siblyback where there was a drake Nov 28th.

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GARGANEY — Scarce passage migrant - fluctuates from year to year. Occasionally breeds.

Par Beach Pool : 2 drakes May 4th. RL. GHT. EJC. GRW. MW. The worst year since 1957, when none were reported.

SHOVELER — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

There were regular reports in both winter periods at : P a r / S t Andrews Pool : noted until Feb 20th with max 13 J an 11th and from Oct 30th with max 3 Dec 28th. Stithians: noted until Apr 10th with max 5 Jan 1st and Feb 19th. F rom Jul 31st with max 6 Nov 10th and 18th. Tamar Lakes: 2 until Feb 2nd. 4 Feb 23rd. F rom Nov 10th with max 3 Nov 28th and Dec 12th. Hayle Est: noted until Mar 3rd with max 8 Feb 22nd and from Oct 6th with max 13 Dec 3rd to 9th. Drift Res: noted Jan 6th to Feb 18th with max 16 Jan 6th. 3 Dec 8th. Marazion: noted Jan 7th to Mar 20th with max 15 J an 26th and 26 Mar 3rd. One Dec 9th. Camel Est: noted Jan 7th to 25th with max 4 last da te . Drake Nov 1st and 3 drakes Dec 29th. Por th Res: noted Jan 12th to Feb 5th with max 4 J an 23rd. Drake Dec 26th. Loe Pool : 3 Jan 12th, one Feb 22nd, 3 Mar 28th, one Nov 23rd, 3 Dec 7th. Elsewhere in the first winter period and spring there were sporadic records at : Lynher Est: one Jan 12th, Swanpool: 3 Jan 14th, Hayle Millpond: 2 Jan 18th, Poldhu Cove: 2 Jan 19th, Sennen: 6 Jan 23rd, Colliford Res: a drake J an 26th and a pair May 31st, Hayle Kimbro Pool : 9 Jan 26th, and a female Apr 26th to May 21st, Maer Lake: 3 Jan 30th, Treburley: 4 Feb 17th, Pendarves Nature Reserve: 4 Feb 17th, Gwithian: 2 Feb 18th, College Res: one Feb 24th and Dozmary Poo l : 2 drakes May 26th. Odd records in the au tumn and second winter period came from: Crowdy Res: 3 Oct 24th, Por thpean : 6 Nov 1st, Colliford: 6 Nov 19th, Sennen: 5 Dec 15th and Millbrook: 4 Dec 15th and 3 Dec 23rd.

RED-CRESTED P O C H A R D — Vagrant.

Loe Pool : a drake in eclipse plumage Sept 29th to Oct 3rd. JSG. Stithians Res: probably the same bird Oct 9th to 27th. PMcC et al. , There are 9 previous records involving 12 birds . This is the first since 1980.

POCHARD — Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Larger than normal numbers in the first winter period with an influx Jan 8th to 13th. The species was regular in good no ' s in both winter periods at the following sites: P a r / S t Andrews Pool : max 37 Jan 11th. 42 Jan 21st. 38 Dec 28th. Tamar Lakes: max 150 Jan 16th. 167 Jan 30th. 65 Dec 28th. Colliford Res: max 75 J an 11th. 71 Feb 13th. 64 Nov 17th. 80 Dec 15th. Loe Pool : max 200 Jan 13th. 192 Jan 27th. 38 Nov 10th. Elsewhere in the first winter period large flocks were noted as follows: Drift Res: 72 Jan 13th, Po r th Res: 35 Jan 20th, College Res: 33 J an 10th, Argal Res: 50 Jan 15th, Tamar Est: 70 Jan 13th, 82 Feb 16th, 90 Feb 19th and 20th. Bussow Res: 30 Jan 25th. The only other large flock in the second winter period was 38 at Dozmary Pool on Nov 10th. In addition to the large numbers reported from the Tamar Est there were records of 1-10 birds at many unusual locations, including most of the estuaries, as birds were displaced from frozen inland sites.

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RING-NECKED DUCK — Vagrant.

Upper Tamar Res: The 1984 duck was noted until Jan 30th, but there was a report for Mar 14th. IK. SMC. TJD et al. Stithians Res: Female or immature Oct 12th to 16th. SMC. ABR. LW. BC. JD. et al. Drift Res: Female Nov 10th was joined by a drake Nov 17th. Both remained into 1986. MPS. CCB. ARP et al.

The county mainland total now stands at 25. All accepted by BBRC.

FERRUGINOUS DUCK — Vagrant. Drift Res: The drake from 1984 was noted until Feb 3rd. CCB. DSF. MPS et al. Bussow Res: Presumed same as above from mid Feb. to Feb 22nd. JBB. SB. JD.

TUFTED DUCK — Breeds in low no's. Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

Breeding was reproted from Crowdy Res where a pair with 7 young were noted. BI. DI. JAdEM. At Dozmary Pool a female with 8 ducklings Aug 3rd presumably bred locally. JAdEM. As with Pochard there was a sizeable influx early in January and again in mid-February. The species was regular in good numbers in both winter periods at the following sites: Tamar Lakes: 108 Jan 2nd increasing to 150 Jan 16th with a gradual decrease thereafter. 54 Nov 18th. 70 Dec 12th and 85 Dec 28th. Swanpool: 35 Jan 7th. 65 Jan 16th. 70 Jan 19th. 20 Dec 23rd. Colliford Res: 45 Jan 11th. 40 Dec 7th. Por th Res: 42 Jan 21st. 53 Feb 2nd. 56 Feb 18th. 27 Dec 11th. Loe Pool : 56 Feb 24th. 40 Oct 21st. 43 Dec 15th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were good no ' s as follows: Drift Res: 40 Jan 20th, 60 Jan 27th, 72 Jan 31st. Argal Res: 31 Jan 22nd. Bussow Res: 91 Feb 17th (c20 is the norm here). Tamar Est: 59 Feb 12th, 84 Feb 16th, 100 Feb 18th. Calenick: 40 Feb 26th to Mar 2nd. There were also reports of 1 to 20 birds at many unusual localities, but paradoxically, regular sites such as Stithians and Siblyback held very few. In the second winter period no other site held more than 30 birds.

SCAUP — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

One of the features of the ornithological year was the unprecedented influx of Scaup" in the first winter period. The total number of birds reported, easily exceeded any previous year. Most arrived, as with the majority of duck, in the middle two weeks of January. There were regular sightings at: Upper Tamar Res: one from '84 to Feb 23rd was joined by another Jan 30th to Feb 3rd. Por th Res: noted from Jan 9th to Mar 20th max 8 Jan 23rd, 10 Jan 29th and then up to 8 daily. Hayle Est area: noted Jan 9th to Mar 12th with max 7 Jan 17th and then up to 5 daily. Colliford Res: a female Jan 11th to 17th then moved to Dozmary Pool until Feb 3rd. Drift Res: noted Jan 11th to Feb 21st with max 5 Jan 26th and Feb 21st. Mounts Bay/Maraz ion area: noted Jan 13th to Apr 25th with a max of 49 Jan 20th. This included 19 at Marazion and 30 on the sea in Mounts Bay. 48 birds were reported Feb 3rd including 3 on Penzance Bathing Pool which were present Jan 26th to Feb 4th. There was the incredible total of 13 on the Bathing Pool Feb 12th with one female there Mar 3rd to 13th.

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Tamar Est: 2 Jan 15th. 4 Feb 3rd. Then noted to Feb 20th with max 14 Feb 19th. St Johns Lake/Mil lbrook: noted Jan 16th to 27th with max 5 first date . A male Feb 20th. Elsewhere there were: a female at Camel Est . Jan 12th to Feb 28th, 3 at Ruan Lanihorne Jan 15th, a female in the Par Beach Po o l /S t Andrews Pool area Jan 16th to 27th, a female at Tregamere, St Columb Jan 19th and then at Retallack. Jan 28th, 3 at Skewjack Jan 19th to 23rd, a drake at Gannel Est Jan 20th, 1 at Bussow Res. Jan 21st, 2 females at Boscawen Park , Truro Jan 22nd with one remaining Jan 24th, 2 drakes at Lamorran Pond Jan 24th, imm. drake at Loe Pool Jan 27th, 3 females at Colvannick Pool , Bodmin Moor Jan 27th and 28th, a female at Lynher Est Feb 11th and 23rd and a female at Sennen Feb 17th and 18th. Even in the autumn and second winter period numbers were above average. The first was a female at Loe Pool Oct 5th followed by a juvenile drake at Stithians Oct 25th. There was a second drake here Oct 31st with both remaining to Nov 2nd. Elsewhere there were singles at Upper Tamar Res, Por th Res, Colliford Res, Mounts Bay, and Helston Park Lake . There were two at Marazion, Loe Pool and Par . At Drift Res, 2 were seen Nov 17th to Dec 3rd with an increase to 6 Dec 17th but lesser numbers into '86.

EIDER — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. A few summer.

Godrevy: 1st wint. male Jan 15th but 2 Feb 17th. Caerhays: 2 imm. males Jan 28th to Mar 24th. One Nov 18th and 2 Dec 3rd. Helford Est: 2 females Jan 22nd, 5 fems. Feb 19th. 2 (1 male) Feb 26th, 2 fems. Mar 5th. Porthleven: 2 Jan 26th to Apr 13th. One Oct 24th to Nov 2nd and another flew west Nov 9th. St Austell Bay: Fem. Feb 16th into 1986. Male Oct 30th to Dec 8th. 4 (1 imm. male) Nov 15th to 23rd and 3 (1 imm male) into 1986. Rame Head: 1 Feb 20th. Porthgwarra: Fem. Mar 15th. Treveal: Fern. Apr 11th. St Ives Bay: Male May 3rd to 16th. Female Nov 14th to Dec 22nd. Looe: Fem, flew west Oct 6th. Sennen Cove: Adult male Oct 18th and 19th. Mounts Bay: 5 (1 male) Oct 18th and 19th. 4 including the male to Nov 28th. 1 fem, into 1986 was joined by another Dec 27th. Camel Est: 2 (1 male) Oct 22nd. Carrick Roads: Adult male Oct 23rd. Cot Valley: Adult male Oct 26th and 27th. Towan Head: Adult male Dec 16th to 31st was joined by a female on 31st. An average year but with a noteworthy influx of adult drakes.

LONG-TAILED DUCK — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Stithians Res: 1st wint male Feb 19th to May 10th. CNT. SMC. SCH et al. Sennen Cove: Male Mar 28th. JH. GCH. Penzance Harbour : Male Oct 16th. RQS. and a female Nov 13th into 1986. CCB. PKB. Loe Pool : Female Oct 27th into 1986 was joined by a male Nov 23rd which also stayed into '86. JSG et al. Porthleven: Female flew east Nov 9th. MPS. Carnsew Pool : One Nov 18th. MJJ. Siblyback Res: One Nov 20th. CB and a male Dec 8th into 1986. DRC. RMB. et al. Camel Est: Female Nov 24th into 1986. ML. MPF. Whitsand Bay: Female Dec 7th into 1986. VRT et al. Caerhays: Female Dec 15th to 19th. RL. Other reports received but omitted owing to lack of detail.

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C O M M O N S C O T E R — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few summer.

In the first winter period and spring there were records from 18 localities, 8 on the north coast and 10 on the south coast. In au tumn and the second winter period there were records from 27 localities, 14 on the north coast and 13 on the south coast. 13 sites held birds in both winter periods. Birds were recorded regularly at: St Austell Bay: noted throughout the year except in June with max 30 Mar 9th and 45 Nov 11th to Dec 17th. Veryan Bay: Noted J an 2nd to 28th with max 14 Jan 3rd and from Dec 15th with max 12 Dec 19th. Gerrans Bay: noted Jan 2nd to Mar 15th with max 20 Jan 28th and from Oct 27th with max 16 Dec 31st. Whitsand B a y / R a m e Head: noted Jan 6th to May 5th with max 21 Feb 20th to 23rd and from Sept 15th with max 29 Dec 29th. Mounts Bay: noted Jan 9th to Mar 6th with max 80 Feb 3rd and from Jul 21st with max 60 Nov 20th to 28th and 65 Dec 5th. Loe Bar /Por th leven: noted Jan 19th to Apr 14th with max 32 Feb 3rd and from Oct 24th with max 11 Dec 8th and 9th. St Ives Bay: noted Jan 22nd to Apr 8th with max 10 Feb 2nd. In au tumn 350 were noted flying west between Aug 5th and the end of the year with max 22 Oct 9th, 57 Oct 30th and 190 Nov 14th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were 1 to 8 birds at Polurr ian, Carnsew, Camel Est, Bude, Mil lbrook, Maenpor th , Sennen Cove, Carrick Roads , Duckpool, Navax Point and Cot Valley. Unusual was one found dead on the road at Goonhilly Feb 5th. NBE. In au tumn there were the usual sightings of birds flying west off the coast with max as follows: Por thgwarra : 175 west and 12 east between June 22nd and Oct 27th with max of 57 Jul 14th, 28 Jul 21st and 25 Jul 22nd. Towan Head: 23 west between Jun 22nd and Dec 8th. Trevose Head: 121 west between Aug 25th and Nov 13th with max of 60 Oct 11th and 47 Nov 13th. Rumps Point : 34 west between Aug 31st and Nov 1st. Elsewhere 14 flew west at Fa lmouth Jun 21st, 20 flew west at Bass Point Jun 29th, 25 were off Lamorna Jul 11th and 30 flew west at Gurnards Head Oct 9th. 1 to 20 birds were noted at Pendeen, West Pentire, Mevagissey, Nanquidno , Polzeath and Long Rock Pool .

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SURF SCOTER — Rare vagrant.

Off Cot Valley: An immature drake Mar 16th to Apr 26th. RB. MC. MG et al. 1984 record: St Ives Bay: Immature or female flew east Nov 6th. H A D . PS . These two now bring the county mainland total to 7, a l though it is conceivable that the above two and the 1984 Towan Head record refer to the same individual. There have now been records in each of the last three years.

VELVET SCOTER — Rare winter visitor and passage migrant.

Mounts Bay: Female from 1984 to Jan 10th. CCB et al. One Nov 28th. CCB. Whitsand Bay: 2 Jan 13th to 21st. Female Feb 17th. SCM. MPF. RS. A H J H . 4 Nov 23rd to Dec 7th with an increase from to 5 that date into 86. SCM et al. St Ives Bay: 5 Jan 22nd to Feb 3rd. 4 drakes Feb 6th. 7 drakes Mar 2nd to 9th. CCB. DSF. GCH. RL. LPW. One flew west Nov 10th. P H A . CCB. BRF et al. Helford Est: 1st winter drake Feb 19th. BC. Possibly the same at Fa lmouth Feb 26th. BC and Maenpor th Mar 5th. RL. Towan Head: 1st winter male Feb 21st to 25th. SMC. EJC. BHd. RS. Female Mar 2nd. EJC. JH. Bude: 2 flew east Nov 10th. SD. TJD. Gerrans Bay: One Dec 26th. LSP. EMP.

Another exceptionally good year with the highest total since 1972.

GOLDENEYE — Winter visitor. Passage migrant. There were records from 24 sites in the first winter period and spring, and records from 19 sites in au tumn and the second winter period. Very few had overwintered from 1984 but better numbers were reported after the first week of January . The majority of these birds stayed into March with most leaving from Mar 20th to 28th. There was a light passage through the county early in April with a few later in the mon th . Once again numbers in au tumn and the second winter period were low with only 15 noted in October . The majority of birds arrived Nov 17th to 23rd and Dec 8th to 12th. Regular reports of good numbers came from: Stithians Res: noted until Apr 22nd with max of 11 Jan 27th and Mar 7th with 17 Apr 5th and from Oct 20th with max 10 Dec 8th. Tamar Lakes: noted until Apr 4th with max 10 Jan 16th and 9 Jan 30th to Feb 23rd and from Nov 10th with max 11 Dec 15th. Hayle Est: noted until Mar 17th with max of 18 Jan 12th and from Nov 3rd with max of 6 Dec 12th to 22nd. Camel Est: noted until Apr 5th with max of 14 Jan 21st to 23rd and 18 Feb 20th and from Oct 24th with max 7 Nov 24th. Colliford Res: noted Jan 11th to Mar 24th with max 8 Feb 5th and from Nov 15th with max of 7 Dec 15th. Carrick Roads: noted Jan 28th to Mar 23rd with max of 21 Mar 11th and from Nov 28th with max 22 Dec 27th. Apart from Lynher Est where there were 12 Jan 20th no other site at tracted more than 5 birds at any one t ime. There were records received for all the major estuaries and reservoirs. Last in spring was one at Stithians Res Apr 22nd and first in au tumn was one at Drift Res Oct 12th.

SMEW — Scarce winter visitor.

This species was particularly badly affected by the freeze on the continent and in eastern England. As a consequence there was a wider scatter of records in Cornwall , than ever before, probably involving the highest total of birds in a single year. Well over 2/3 of the birds arrived Jan 14th to 22nd and al though all sightings are listed, many of these will involve the same birds . Conservatively, one estimates that

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at least 25 birds were involved. All records refer to brownheads unless stated: Colliford Res: one Jan 6th was joined by another Jan 17th with one remaining to at least Feb 6th. 4 Feb 13th but only one Feb 19th and an increase to 5 Feb 23rd. M P F . R S . E G et al. Bussow Res: 2 Jan 14th. 3 Jan 29th to 31st with one remaining to Feb 21st. J B B . SB. J D . Siblyback Res: 2 (one drake) Jan 15th. one Feb 16th. R J P . Swanpool : one Jan 16th. J F B . Carnsew/Hayle Mil lpond: one moving between the two sites Jan 16th to 20th was joined by another Jan 26th with one remaining to Feb 17th. Loe Pool : 2 (one drake) Jan 19th were joined by another by Jan 23rd. J S G . M P S . Sennen: 2 Jan 19th. C C B . One at another site in same area Feb 3rd. DSF . G C H . S C H . L P W . Drift Res: 2 Jan 20th. One Feb 21st to 25th. J D . M P S . Boscathnoe Res: 2 Jan 20th. M P S . (Probably the Drift birds, which in turn may well have been the Sennen birds). Dozmary Pool : One Jan 20th. 2 Jan 26th with one remaining to Feb 21st. P G A . D J C . et al. Tresi l l ian/Truro River: Drake Jan 20th to Mar 1st. Bh. Jan 26th. E J C et al. Camel Est: One Jan 20th was joined by another by Jan 30th. Both remained to Mar 5th. I M B . P G A et al. Por th Res: Drake Jan 23rd to 25th. S M C . A D C . H M C . BTSC et al. Crowdy Res: One Jan 30th to Feb 3rd and the same or another Feb 20th to Mar 2nd. S M C . B T C . G J H . Fowey Est: One Feb 2nd. I M B College Res: One Feb 16th to Mar 2nd. B C . P M c C . R J P . Upper Tamar Res: One Feb 23rd. F H C K . G P S . A few other reports received with inconclusive descriptions.

R E D - B R E S T E D M E R G A N S E R — Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Probably the only common duck species which did not show a considerable increase in numbers during the cold spell. With the exception of Carrick Roads and Camel Est. the totals were surprisingly low. Very few had overwintered from 1984. There was a small influx Jan 11th to 20th with a second larger incursion Feb 15th to 20th. There was a light spring passage in Apri l . There were regular reports in both winter periods from: Fal Es t /Percui l : noted until Mar 23rd with max 12 Jan 15th, 40 Feb 21st and 40 Mar 23rd. F rom Aug 29th with max 14 Nov 28th and 39 Dec 31st. Hayle Est: noted until Mar 26th with max 8 Feb 16th. 2 bh Oct 30th. St Johns Lake: noted until Feb 24th with max 10 Feb 17th and from Oct 21st with max 4 on that date . Lynher Est: noted until Apr 16th with max 6 Jan 17th and Feb 3rd and from Nov 1st with one or two into '86. Camel Est: noted Jan 11th to Apr 19th with max 21 Feb 22nd and from Oct 26th with max 6 Nov 21st to 23rd. Tresillian River: noted Feb 25th to Mar 16th with max 5 Mar 9th. 2 Nov 2nd and one Nov 4th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were reports of singles at Loe Pool , St Austell Bay, Mevagissey, Seaton, Marazion and Falmouth Bay. There were 2 at Towan Head and St Andrews, Pa r . Elsewhere in the second winter period there were singles at St Austell Bay and Mounts Bay. 3 flew east at Per ranpor th Nov 28th and at St Ives 2 flew west Nov 10th with 3 more Nov 14th. Last in spring was a drake at Hayle Apr 26th and first in au tumn was a brownhead at Camel Est. Aug 29th. At the end of the year birds were apparently overwintering only on the Fal, Camel and Lynher Ests, and on St Johns Lake .

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GOOSANDER — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

As with the majority of other wildfowl, numbers in the first winter period were well above average, but not quite as numerous as the record-breaking year of 1979. There were records from 22 localities in the first winter period and spring with most arriving Jan 15th to 22nd and a second, smaller influx Feb 16th to 22nd. Regular reports were received from: (Brownheads unless stated otherwise) Marazion: 3 Jan 5th. 3 Feb 16th with one to 18th. Hayle Est: 2 Jan 8th to 25th with one to Feb 27th. College Res: One Jan 10th. 2 (1 drake) J an 20th. 3 Jan 22nd and Feb 21st with one to Mar 2nd. Camel Est: 2 (1 drake) Jan 16th with bh to 23rd. Drift Res: 13 Jan 17th and 18th increasing to 15 by 19th and 17 (10 drakes) by 20th. Only 1 to 3 noted after this date until Feb 14th. Por th Res: 5 (5 drakes) Jan 20th. Up to 3 Feb 4th to 28th. Gannel Est: 2 (1 drake) Jan 25th with bh to Feb 6th. Dozmary Pool : 3 (2 drakes) Jan 26th. 6 (2 drakes) Feb 24th. 2 (1 drake) Mar 8th and 2 Mar 23rd. Tamar Lake: 3 Jan 30th and 4 Feb 18th. Crowdy Res: One Feb 8th and 9th. 5 (1 drake) Feb 22nd. one Mar 7th and 8th, 2 Mar 19th, 4 Mar 25th to 27th and 2 Apr 21st. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were singles at Loe Pool Jan 18th, Bude Jan 19th, Argal Res Jan 20th, Feb 16th and Mar 5th, West Pentire Feb 9th, T ru ro Feb 17th, Siblyback Res Mar 30th and Colliford Res Apr 17th. There were 2 at Boscathnoe Res: Jan 20th and Pa r Feb 16th. There were 4 at Tresillian Jan 20th and 9 at Stithians Jan 22nd. Conversely there were birds at only 5 sites in the second half of the year: There were singles at Colliford Res Nov 20th, Carrick Roads Dec 27th, Crowdy Res Dec 29th and Dozmary Pool Dec 31st. At Siblyback there was a single brownhead Nov 20th but 5 from Nov 30th to '86.

RUDDY DUCK — Scare winter visitor and passage migrant.

Loe Pool : Female Jan 18th was joined by another by J an 22nd. Both stayed to J an 28th. One female Feb 14th to 16th. JSG. EJC. MPS. et al. Stithians: One Jan 21st. One Feb 13th to 17th but 2 18th to 20th. NWT. GRW. MW. et a. 7 Nov 13th RL. Argal Res: One Jan 22nd. BC. College Res: One Feb 16th to 20th. BC. PMcC. RJP. Bussow Res: One Feb 17th and 18th. JBB. SB. J D . Siblyback Res: 2 Nov 15th. JAdEM. Dozmary Pool : One Nov 16th to Dec 25th. MPF. CB. BTC. et al. The January records at Loe Pool , Stithians and Argal birds were probably the same, as may have been the Loe Pool and College Res. February bird. This may also have been the second Stithians bird. In the second winter period the Dozmary bird was almost certainly one of the Siblyback birds. The flock of 7 at Stithians is the largest single gathering in Cornwall to date . Now recorded in every year since the first county record in 1977.

HONEY BUZZARD — Rare passage migrant.

Saltash: one flew west Apr 20th. EG. Por thgwarra : one flew south west out to sea Aug 1st. DSF. Goonhavern: two flew west Aug 30th. DJB. DCB.

RED KITE — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor.

Blackrock: one Jan 13th. PWS. ES. Morvah: one Feb 21st. MPS. Boswednack: one Mar 4th. EGG. GGG. SVC. Probably the Morvah bird. Por thcurno: one Oct 29th. AB . MPS. BT.

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Bolventor: one Nov 7th. ABR. High Street, St Austell: one Dec 3rd. SJC.

MARSH HARRIER — Scare passage migrant.

Marazion: female flew nor th May 12th. B P . Colliford: juvenile Sept 7th and 10th. JAdEM. A H J H . Camel Est: juvenile Sept 18th and 22nd. JAdEM. DJ. Por thgwarra : female or immature Oct 18th. DJC. TOC.

HEN HARRIER — Scarce winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant.

Records are grouped into the four main wintering areas, followed by casual sightings at other localities. Mid-Cornwall moors : Noted mainly in the St Co lumb area until Apr 18th when a female was seen at Retallack. The roost at Tregonetha regularly attracted five birds, including two males, but six birds were present Feb 9th to 11th. Single birds were also noted at St Eval, St Co lumb , St Mawgan and Rosenannon. At P o r t h Res a male was seen Jan 29th, a ringtail Feb 14th and both Feb 16th. At Coswar th , three ringtails were watched Jan 6th. In the second winter period a ringtail was noted at Tregonetha Oct 29th and at Winnards Perch the following day. 4 males were at the roost Nov 2nd but these may have moved on because only singles were then present until Dec 21st when there was an increase to 3 males and a ringtail. One male and a ringtail were watched 'quar ter ing ' a kale field at Retyn, Summercour t Dec 22nd. Bodmin Moor : A male from 1984 was last noted Mar 20th, with a second male present Feb 17th to 19th. Probably a different male, a migrant , was noted Apr 21st. Most records came from the Colliford Res /Dozmary Pool area but single ringtails were reported from Crowdy Res Feb 4th and Halvana Feb 16th. In au tumn and the second winter period there were ringtails at Crowdy Oct 20th, Hawkstor Oct 23rd and Colliford Nov 20th with a single male at Dozmary Dec 22nd. Lands End peninsula: Noted until Mar 28th with a maximum of four, including a male, at a roost Feb 22nd. The majority of records came from the west-facing coastal strip, but there were sporadic sightings of singles at Por thgwarra , Penzance and Drift Res. Three, including a male were seen at Ding Dong Feb 23rd. In spring, what was presumed to be the same male, was seen at several locations Apr 6th to 23rd and a ringtail was seen Apr 5th to 29th. An early ringtail was reported from Pendeen Sept 15th, otherwise au tumn records were very few. On Dec 1st, four including a male were noted at the main roost , with four ringtails at the same site Dec 29th. Lizard peninsula: up to 3, including a male , present in the first winter period until Mar 31st. A single migrant ringtail was seen Apr 19th. In the second winter period a ringtail was noted Nov 19th but on Nov 24th and 25th 4 males and a ringtail were seen at Croft Pascoe. Presumably these moved on because only singles were reported to the end of the year. Elsewhere there were ringtails at Newlyn East Jan 13th, Ruan Lanihorne Jan 16th, Stithians Sept 23rd and Pa r Nov 22nd. There were males at St Minver Feb 26th and He lman Tor May 3rd.

MONTAGU'S HARRIER — Rare passage migrant. Occasionally breeds.

Nationally, there has been a slight recovery in the breeding populat ion. F rom the brink of extinction as a breeding bird a few years ago, the species has fought back and there is now a small breeding nucleus, which, it is hoped will expand. In Cornwall , there were three records from a possible breeding area. A single female was seen on May 23rd and 26th, with a pair Jun 5th. I have no intention of disclosing the locality, and further, to avoid any harassment of, or embarrassment to the observer concerned, I do not intend to publish his initials.

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Elsewhere: Kynance: ringtails Apr 16th to 26th, May 6th and 12th. Possibly only one bird involved. PMcC. SCH. EGe. Nr St Just : ringtail Apr 25th. EGe. Gwithian: ringtail May 1st. LPW and a male May 25th. CCB. Por th Mear: female flew south Oct 12th. TRC. Other reports were received without accompanying description.

GOSHAWK — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor.

Whitecross, Newquay: one showing characteristics of the nor thern race 'A. g. buteiodes' Feb 10th. PJD. East Cornwall: (same site as 1984) a female Feb 23rd. EG. A male displaying May 28th. RS and a male May 6th. MPF. Penzance: a female May 4th flying over the harbour was accompanied by a smaller accipiter, possibly a male. DJB. DCB. Other reports received without accompanying description.

SPARROWHAWK — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

Well reported, throughout the year, from all parts of the county. From the reports received it is evident that the species stronghold remains in the mid and east of Cornwall , with many fewer on the Lands End and Lizard peninsulas. CCB describes it as apparently holding its own in west Cornwall and EMP. LSP report that it remains well-established at St Just in Roseland. In south Cornwall RL reports that it is of limited distribution but not uncommon in woodland areas. Kills reported included a Jay at Polbathic BLW, a Woodpigeon at Grampound RDP and a Ringed Plover at Pa r . In the last case the bird was so intent on its meal, IMB was able to walk within 6' of it.

BUZZARD — Breeds. Resident Passage migrant.

No decreases reported. RL reports it as very widespread, with 220 day-sightings Jan to June . EMP. LSP. state that it remains well distributed at St Just in Roseland. FHCK reports it as common, holding its own or possibly increasing in the Bude area. J A d E M noted the species every day of the year and reports it as widespread over the whole of Bodmin Moor . Breeding was widely reported with a maximum of 9 pairs between Bodmin and Wadebridge GJC. The maximum noted together were 9 at Blackrock Sept 7th and 9 flying south at Kehelland Dec 30th. Single migrants were reported at Trevose Head Sept 26th and Oct 27th, with one in off the sea at Por thgwarra Oct 9th.

OSPREY — Scarce passage migrant.

Saltash: one flew nor th Mar 27th B.Chugg. Crowdy Res: one Apr 8th TKS. JDn. Gannel Est: one Apr 24th DLT. St Columb Minor: one flew nor th east Apr 24th. SMC. A D C . BTSC. (Probably the Gannel bird) Siblyback Res: one Apr 24th per JAdEM. one Jun 16th and 19th MM per JAdEM. Por thgwarra : one in off the sea May 3rd RA. P H . VRT. Copperhouse: one flew west Jun 18th DSF. St Johns Lake: one Aug 11th RA. Stratton: one Sept 5th FHCK.

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Nanquidno: one Sept 6th CCB. St Anthony Head: one Nov 17th GRW. MW. There was also an unconfirmed report of one at Malpas on Nov 17th. This is by far the latest ever date for the species in the county.

KESTREL — Breeds. Resident. Possible passage migrant.

Very few records received, but reported as common by BP and FHCK in the Marazion and Bude areas respectively.

Breeding appears to have been widespread but was poorly reported.

RED-FOOTED FALCON — Rare vagrant. Bearah Tor: a female June 2nd and 3rd. BI. DI. JAdEM et al. The seventh county mainland record, the last being one in 1981. Accepted by BBRC.

MERLIN — Winter visitor. Scarce passage migrant.

In the first winter period there were records from 20 localities. Most reports were of single bird/single day sightings but there were regular reports at: Tregonetha: singles on five dates Jan 1st to Feb 23rd. East Moor , Bodmin Moor : At least two birds Jan 10th to Mar 17th. Col l i ford/Dozmary: a male Jan 6th and 13th, a female Mar 8th. Hayle Est: singles Jan 10th and Feb 17th. Por thgwarra : singles Jan 23rd and Feb 20th. Elsewhere there were singles at Sandymouth , Bude, Tamar Lake, Pentire Point , Camel Est, St Eval, St Mawgan, Retallack, Kelsey Head, Ladock, Copperhouse , St Ives, Marazion, Ludgvan and Penzance. By grouping these records into areas, one arrives at the possible conclusion that the total number of birds was in fact very small. For example, all of the Bude area records referred to females and most of the mid Cornwall records related to males. Apar t from the Bodmin Moor records, all other March records apparently refer to migrants . There were singles at Hayle on 22nd, Trevose Head on 27th, Kynance, Helston, Gwithian, Gribbin Head and Draynes Valley on 30th and another at Gwithian on 31st. In April singles were seen at Loe Pool on 5th, Cot Valley on 23rd, Tfevose Head on 24th, Gwithian on 25th and 26th. Finally there were singles at Loe Pool on the very late dates of May 11th and 25th. In au tumn, early birds were noted at Por thgwarra Aug 3rd and Loe Pool Aug 25th. Au tumn migration was again very protracted lasting until Nov 23rd. About 40 birds were involved at 27 localities. There was a small, but noticeable influx in mid October , otherwise records were very sporadic. Regular reports were received for: Por thgwarra : one Aug 3rd A H J H fern. Sept 24th, male Oct 11th and 12th, fern. Nov 2nd. Sennen: singles Sept 9th, 24th and 28th, Oct 2nd, 12th and 13th. Lizard peninsula: one Oct 11th, 2 Oct 14th, 4 Oct 16th, 3 Oct 18th. Singles Oct 26th, Nov 10th and 19th. Most other records involved single bird/single day sightings. Only three birds were noted in December - singles at Lizard on 7th, Loe Pool on 28th and Swanpool on 30th.

HOBBY — Scarce passage migrant. Occasionally breeds.

Singles unless stated otherwise: Copperhouse: one flew east Apr 26th DSF Por thgwarra : Apr 28th and 29th GCH. SCH. LPW. May 3rd and 4th. BJB. DWB. PA. VRT. May 18th DSF and May 24th CCB.

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Nanquidno: May 4th CCB and 27th DSF. MPS. Gwithian: adult Jun 3rd. PAR. Falmouth: Jun 11th BC. Loe Pool : Jun 15th JSG Marazion: Jun 16th DSF. LPW. Jul 21st BP . Sept 9th to 14th. BP. SCH. MPS. Calstock: 2 adults Aug 21st with one Oct 14th. IK. Dobwalls: chasing hirundines Aug 25th SCM. Hayle Est: Sept 19th EGG. GGG. Rame Head: Sept 21st P H A . SCM. Trevose Head: Sept 26th SMC. The remarks made in 1983 and 1984 concerning inconclusive or no descriptions continue to apply. Some observers are trying to be too clever - several reports received of birds which have purportedly been aged and sexed, even with the briefest of views.

PEREGRINE — Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Another fantastic year with records from 105 localities throughout the county. DSF reports 'hundreds of sightings' and JAdEM reports 39 sightings on Bodmin moor . Of the kills reported, by far the most interesting concerned a male stooping on Skylarks at Rame Head Oct 13th. Eventually one was caught and was eaten on the wing. RS. VRT.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE — Breeds?. Scarce resident. Ferel release.

Although breeding was not proved at any site this year, this was surely not through apathy on the part of various males which chose a seletion of unusual 'song pos ts ' . Gwithian: One Feb 3rd. No doubt one of the birds released in au tumn 1984. PAR. Trobus Farm, Ladock: Two Mar 10th and 13th. Singles May 2nd, Jun 29th and Jul 3rd. The Jul bird was calling from the top of a 7' high water tank . J D . Rumford: A pair Mar 25th SMC. St Columb: One in a small walled garden in the middle of the town. Mar 26th. It had gone by the next day. SMC. St. Tudy: One Apr 16th. RP. Trethosa, St Stephen: 2 May 16th SJC. Little Treviscoe: One Jun 2nd calling loudly from a workshop roof. SJC. Scadghill, Bude: One tame bird released. It stayed a round for several weeks calling loudly from rooftops and chimneys before it disappeared. A second bird was believed seen, so maybe its efforts were not in vain. TJD.

GREY PARTRIDGE — Breeds. Resident.

Few breeding records and low numbers in au tumn suggest that this species was hit hard by the disastrously inclement weather of summer 1985. As usual the majority of records came from the area between Newquay and Camel Est, but even here numbers seemed to be down on recent years. In south east Cornwall there was a scatter of records but these merely confirmed the scarcity of the species in this district. JD described the species as scarce at Ladock and GJC al though describing it as scarce, thought that there had been a slight increase. West of mid Cornwall reports were sparse. There were 10 at Zelah Jan 1st and one at Downas Valley Apr 2nd but the only regular reports came from the Reskajeage Downs to Port reath area where up to 12 were recorded. These birds were possibly released this year because there have been no records from this area in recent years. Largest coveys reported were; a pair with 15 young at Retallack Jul 31st and 17 at Trevose Head Oct 28th.

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QUAIL — Occasionally breeds. Scarce passage migrant and summer resident.

Loe Pool : One calling Jun 6th AA. The worst year since 1974 when none was recorded.

PHEASANT — Breeds. Resident. Ferel release.

Apparent ly widespread in suitable areas, particularly in the vicinity of large estates where released birds, augment the resident populat ion. The St Austell to Fal Est district is well populated, as is the Bodmin to Nanstallon area. At Falmouth there appears to be two distinct areas of popula t ion, one in the south and a more densely populated area in the nor th . Once again there were very few reports from the west of the county, but BP reports that large numbers reared at Marazion are released every year, so presumably the lack of records is not an indication of a dwindling populat ion. Unusual was a young male at Pencarrow Head which presented a diverting spectacle as it clambered a round in an elder tree, presumably looking for berries, Sept 22nd. This behaviour is described as 'occasional ' in 'Birds of the Western Palearctic ' . A H J H .

WATER RAIL — Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Breeding was confirmed at Long Rock where BP t rapped and ringed a young bird Jul 30th. Breeding may also have occurred at nearby Marazion Marsh, for a fully grown young bird was found dead in the road Jul 28th. MSW. At Landulph Marsh one was noted Jun 2nd, which may indicate possible breeding. In the first winter period the species was very scarce, being noted at only 12 localities, mostly in ones and twos but three were present during January at Par , Swanpool , Hayle Millpond and Bude Marshes . There were no spring passage records. In au tumn there were records at 13 wetland sites with passage commencing late in September. Numbers were again light with a maximum of 4 at Por thgwarra Oct 28th. Rather more were noted in N o v / D e c with the maximum being 6+ at Par Dec 14th and 6 at Marazion Dec 7th. Unusual was one flushed from a stream at Por thgwarra which flew into the crown of a tree where it gave excellent views. DJC.

CORNCRAKE — Rare passage migrant.

St Merryn: One calling persistently during the late afternoon and evening of Apr 24th. F.L. Wheatley per FHCK. Pendeen: One Sept 15th. MPS. There have now been 9 records in the last 4 years after none in the 4 years 1978-81 .

MOORHEN — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor.

Apart from the Falmouth area, no change in status noted. At Falmouth PMcC comments that the once large populat ion has now almost disappeared. In the au tumn of 1969 he counted up to 45 birds there and at nearby Maenpor th there were a further 23. Since then there has been a large release of mallard and subsequent increase in the populat ion of that species. This increase has corresponded with the decline in moorhen populat ions. For instance the 1973 Swanpool peak was 13 and no count has exceeded 8 in the last decade. Elsewhere in the area the species is very difficult to find either in, or out of the breeding season. In the Upper Fowey Valley, where JAdEM thought the species had been eradicated by mink in 1984, 3 pairs bred but the parents were noted as very shy and secretive, possibly due to the presence of mink.

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At Long Rock BP blames constant harrassment by mute swans for the failure of moorhens to breed.

COOT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Confirmed breeding was reported from Tamar Lakes (3 to 5 pairs), Siblyback (1 pair raised two young), Stithians (adult with two young Jul 12th) and College Res (one on, nest May 13th). At Loe Pool rising water level precluded breeding, whilst birds were present at P a r Beach Pool , Crowdy Res and Por th Res but details of success or otherwise not received. Numbers outside the breeding season were generally low and even the cold spell in the first winter period did not bring any substantial numbers into the county. Largest flocks included the following: Stithians Res: 135 Jan 8th increasing to 195 by 10th and 50 to 60 from mid October to the end of the year. Argal Res: 65 Jan 15th. Tamar Lakes: 85 Jan 22nd. Siblyback Res: 5 0 + Jan 26th and 80 Nov 30th. As usual there were records from several coastal and estuarine sites at the time of the freeze. There were reports of low numbers at Hayle Est, Pentewan Harbour , Mevagissey, Wadebridge and Mil lbrook. Unusual: Siblyback Res: On Aug 1st the resident pair were building a second nest and the two young from the first nest were helping the parents to collect nesting material . Unfortunately the nest was doomed because the water level rose a few days later. JAdEM.

Stithians Res: One Oct 24th with a white tail DSF.

CRANE — Rare vagrant. Porthgwarra: one flew in from the south west, circled once but did not land, May 11th. CCB. Perranwell: One flew north at 1255 hours May 12th. MPV. (Almost certainly the Por thgwarra bird). 1984 Near RAF St Mawgan: The bird of Dec 1983 - Jan 1984 was found dead Jan 19th. H A D . The Porthgwarra bird accepted by BBRC. OYSTERCATCHER — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabirds Survey (pages 144/145) Noted on most estuaries during winter and passage periods. The maximum were: Camel Est: 220 Jan 31st increasing to 250 Feb 27th. 200 were still present Mar 14th but there was then a decrease throughout the summer with c.40 in July. First evidence of au tumn passage came when 146 were noted Jul 30th and 410 Aug 13th. Counts ranged from 350 to 470 through the au tumn but on Oct 14th 620 were counted flighting to roost at Rock. The N o v / D e c average was c.300 with a peak of 356+ Dec 23rd. St Johns Lake: 160 Jan 30th. 302 Aug 26th. 500 Sept 8th. 159 Nov 17th. Ruan Lanihorne: This area appears to be impor tant at passage times but less so in winter. Up to 24 were noted in both winter periods but there were 200 Apr 19th and Aug 16th, with 310 Aug 28th. Truro River: 61 Apr 9th. 100 Oct 12th. 220 Nov 9th and 2 0 0 + Dec 20th. Spit Beach, Par : A regular roost throughout the year produced peaks of 80 Apr 4th and 8th, 110 Aug 19th to 30th, 120 Oct 1st and 140 Dec 29th. Hayle Est: Max of 37 in first winter but 102 Sept 1st and 76 Dec 15th. Inland, a flock of 14 at Colliford Res Aug 6th was most unusual RMB. Singles were heard calling at night at Bodmin Oct 14th and P robus Oct 15th. Unusual were 250+ roosting on an offshore island at Po r th Mear Oct 17th.

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BLACK-WINGED STILT — Rare vagrant.

West Looe River: One Apr 2nd to 6th. SCM. EG. RS. AHJH et al. Virtually every possible combinat ion of age/sex was submitted for this bird. Diagnostic plumage criteria in the readily available literature is evidently inadequate . The thirteenth county mainland record with sightings in five of the last seven years. Accepted by BBRC.

BLA CK- WINGED STIL T Mike Frost

AVOCET — Winter visitor. Rare passage migrant.

Tamar Est: 68 Jan 6th. 95 Jan 27th and 83 Feb 28th. 17 Nov 18th, 90 Dec 1st. On Dec 27th 11 birds had broken away from the main flock and were noted at Kingsmill Lake . Lynher Est: 4 Jan 8th. Up to 6 regularly until Feb 26th. SCM. RS. RMB. AHJH. MRAB. St Johns Lake: singles Jan 27th and Feb 10th. AHJH. MDR. BW. Camel Est: One Sept 7th into Mar 1986. ML. DJ. EJC. SMC. et al. The Camel Est bird is by far the longest staying individual noted in the county - one wonders if it may be the fore runner of another wintering flock.

STONE CURLEW — Vagrant.

Colliford Res: One , probably a juvenile Aug 13th. JAdEM. The same or another Sept 20th Miss K. Jones per JAdEM and again Oct 5th. MPF. These are very difficult records to access. If they refer to the same bird, where did it hide between dates? If it was not the same bird, why did all sightings come from the same area of this vast reservoir? The thirteenth county mainland r e c o r d since 1937, prior to which the species was much more regular.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER — Uncommon passage migrant.

Hayle Est: singles Apr 26th. SMC. ABR and May 19th. PWS. Par Beach: one Apr 28th to 29th. RL. GRW. MW. The lowest annual total for many years.

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RINGED PLOVER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

During the first winter period numbers were very low. At Hayle Est there were 93 Jan 3rd decreasing to 57 Feb 10th and only 19 Mar 5th. At Camel Est there was a peak of 50 Jan 31st with lesser numbers thereafter. Apar t from 55 at Mounts Bay Jan 10th and 23 at Hannafore Feb 26th there were no other counts of more than 20. Spring passage was almost non-existent with a max imum of 13 at Par May 21st. Au tumn passage apparently commenced with 2 at Hayle Est Jun 30th and proved to be widespread in fair numbers . At Hayle Est 33 Aug 17th increased rapidly to 70 by 22nd but down to 22 by Sept 6th. At Camel Est there was a slow build up to a peak of 48 Aug 13th then very low no ' s into Oct. There was a further increase in this mon th peaking at 60 on 23rd. At Par Beach most moved through Aug 11th to Sept 4th with a maximum of 60 Aug 18th and 62 Sept 2nd. At St Johns Lake there were 30 Aug 15th. In the second winter period the only good sized flocks were 66 at Hayle Est Nov 16th and at the Camel Est where there were 180 Nov 1st but only 50 for the remainder of the month with a further decrease to 32 in December. Elsewhere there were 26 at Hannafore and 22 at Polbathic . Inland records during the year came from all the Bodmin Moor reservoirs and from Stithians Res. The only numbers of consequence came from Davidstow where birds were regular Aug 6th to Sept 16th with maxima of 20 Aug 29th and 33 Sept 1st.

KENTISH PLOVER — Rare passage migrant.

Par Beach: a male May 18th to 21st. EJC. PS . SMC. et al. The 24th county mainland record, but the first away from Mounts Bay since the Camel Est bird of 1975. After none in 1984 we return to our average of one per year.

DOTTEREL — Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn)

Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Aug 19th. JAdEM. Another Sept 25th and 26th. . SR. IK. GRW. MW. BTC. Porthgwarra: juvenile Sept 25th and 26th. DSF. LPW. 2 Oct 4th RA. P H . Sennen: singles Sept 25th and Oct 1st to 3rd but 2 Oct 4th . (different to Por thgwar ra birds). DSF. PH. RA. Reskajeage Downs: first winter bird Oct 17th to 20th. DSF. Lizard village: one flew nor th Oct 26th. BC. Prior to 1968 there were only two county mainland records this century, (Birds of the Cornish Coast - R . D . Penhallurick) but since, there have been records in every year.

LESSER GOLDEN PLOVER — Vagrant.

Hayle Est: a very unusual spring record of a bird of the race 'dominica ' in first summer plumage Apr 19th to 26th. DSF. MAG. MPS et al. Near Kynance: a juvenile of the race 'dominica ' Sept 28th to Oct 1st. EG. JMR. RA. et al. Sennen: one Oct 5th. P H . VRT.

GOLDEN PLOVER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

An interesting record of possible breeding, the first in the county for many years, involved a bird at Middle Candra , Bodmin Moor on May 26th, which was seen behaving in a manner suggestive of a nearby nest or young. The bird circled low over the observer, perched and watched the observer and then flew off over the brow of a hill. Despite several checks over the next five weeks it was not seen again, per JAdEM. The cold weather in January evidently caused an exodus from the county, for the species was almost totally absent from Bodmin Moor and other usual sites. On the

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Moor there were maxima of 500 at Colliford J an 1st and 270 at Siblyback Feb 8th. Between dates very few remained on the Moor . On the estuaries, flocks were equally small with max of 408 at Camel Jan 5th and 300 at Hayle Feb 2nd. Despite the lack of birds at the usual sites there were some less usual concentrations including 100 at Caerhays Feb 16th and the same number at Gor ran High Lanes Feb 19th. At Rinsey Head , on Jan 5th, 100 flew southwest out to sea with lapwings and 200 flew east and west along the cliffs, in groups of up to 30. Spring passage was most pronounced at the end of March when 350 were noted at East Moor , Bodmin Moor . Elsewhere on the Moor there were 150 at Siblyback Apr 11th, 150 at Trekeivesteps May 1st and 100 at Cheesewring May 11th. Nor thern race birds were noted at Kynance, RAF St Mawgan and St Just Airfield. In au tumn , numbers were low and generally late in arriving. Numbers were at their highest for the year in the second winter period: Max numbers : Davidstow Airfield: 1000 Oct 8th. Stithians Res: less than 80 up to Oct 12th. 600 Oct 25th. 1000 Nov 2nd. 300 Dec 23rd. Camel Est: 428 Oct 17th. 800 Nov 1st. 1072 Dec 16th. Dozmary Downs: 400 Oct 13th Hayle Est: 300+ Oct 17th. 500 Nov 30th and Dec 12th. 660 Dec 15th. Siblyback: 500 Nov 10th to 17th. 900 Dec 12th. Colliford: 2000 Dec 7th and 16th. Unusual were a total of 500 + flying west off Towan Head in three flocks between 1430 and 1515 hours Aug 14th. This is very early for such numbers . JH. At Sennen a bird with white primaries was noted Nov 30th. MPS.

GREY PLOVER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

During the first winter period the only large flocks were at the Camel and Hayle estuaries. At Camel Est there were 220 Jan 9th with up to 180 present until Feb 28th. In March there was a dramat ic decrease with only 32 on 5th and 5 on 19th. At Hayle Est there were 100 Jan 25th and 26th with up to 90 regularly until Mar 5th but with a peak of 116 Feb 12th. Elsewhere, concentrat ions were small with max of 70 at Mounts Bay Feb 6th. On St Johns Lake there was a very disappointing peak of only 29 Feb 23rd and no other site held more than 30 birds. Very few were noted in spring. The max were 8 at Hayle Apr 6th and 6 at Camel Est Apr 18th. Spring passage ended with one at Carnsew June 4th. What may have been the same bird was again noted at Hayle Jun 27th to 30th, Jul 14th and Aug 19th. Away from this site the next for au tumn was one at Camel Est Aug 9th. A u t u m n passage was poor with few significant reports until late September. Second winter numbers were slightly lower than in the first winter. The max were: Camel Est: 30 Oct 2nd. 45 Oct 13th. 60 Nov 4th then 70 to 80 to the end of the year. Hayle Est: 4 0 + Oct 12th. 32 Nov 16th. 70 Dec 15th. St Johns Lake: 60 Nov 21st. 23 Dec 22nd. Elsewhere in au tumn there were no other double figure counts and in the second winter 27 at Hannafore Dec 23rd was the only other notable number .

LAPWING — Breeds, Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Reasonably widespread on Bodmin Moor during the breeding season with records as follows; Colliford 2 pairs, Fox Tor Marsh 4 pairs, Crowdy Marsh 4 or 5 pairs, Rushyford Gate 3 pairs , Emblancg Downs 1 pair, Bowithick 1 pair, Harpurs Downs 2 pairs, Temple Pools 1 pair, Carkeet Marsh 1 pair (unsuccesful). Two pairs were at Croft Pascoe Pool on May 29th and from their display flights were no doubt on breeding terri tory. The species was widely affected by the freeze in January and February and there were some large movements into and through the county. Certainly many of the birds noted had been forced off traditional moor land feeding

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areas. 1000+ at Dozmary was the only significant flock on Bodmin Moor during the month , although 600 were noted flying nor th at Ladydown Jan 28th and 852 were counted at Colliford on Feb 5th. At this time there was a period of thaw prior to the second cold spell when birds were again moved off the Moor . First evidence of movement involved thousands moving east along the coast, in small flocks, at Portwrinkle on Jan 13th. This movement must have been a desperate resort because thousands returned to the county Jan 17th to 19th. On 17th 3000 moved west at Hayle Est and there was a constant stream for much of the day, involving hundreds at St Co lumb. The following day, thousands passed west at St Columb and a heavy movement south west was noted at Fa lmouth . On 19th thousands were noted flying west along the nor th coast at Newquay. At Mullion, on several days in January , there was an almost cont inuous stream in off the sea with birds landing anywhere in fields and gardens. Many were exhausted and mortali ty was high. Few reports were received from the estuaries in January but in February there were 1500+ at Hayle on 2nd and 1509 at Camel Feb 5th increasing to 2500 by 27th. The February cold spell brought a second influx to the Lizard but not apparently elsewhere. On Feb 16th there was a heavy passage south and south east at Mullion and on the the 17th all the fields a round Kynance and Lizard were full of Lapwings. Autumn flocks were smaller than normal but numbers picked up in the second winter; Davidstow Airf ie ld/Crowdy Res: 1000 Oct 9th and Dec 17th, but only 500 regular. Camel Est: 1080 Oct 13th. 2500 Nov 1st. 3000 Nov 4th. 4000 Dec 4th to mid month . Hayle Est: 1400 Oct 30th. 1000 Nov 30th and Dec 22nd. Colliford: 350 Nov 17th. 1000 Dec 17th but 2500 Dec 16th. Tamar Lakes: 800 Nov 23rd. 1000 Dec 15th. 400/500 also noted in au tumn or second winter at Siblyback, Stithians, Ruan Lanihorne, Long Rock and Lynher Est.

KNOT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

The hard weather brought more than normal to the county but spring passage was almost non existent. In au tumn there was an unusually heavy movement off the north coast and in the second winter a larger than normal flock at St Johns Lake. Regularly noted at: Camel Est: 5 Jan 7th, increasing to 28 by 9th and 55 by 31st. 60 /70 throughout Feb with a peak of 72 on 22nd. 7 remained to Mar 19th. 5 Jul 19th and 3 Aug 9th. Steady build up to an au tumn max of 45 Sept 12th. 37 Sept 21st and up to 25 into Oct . Very

LAPWINGS overDavistow Thelma K. Sykes

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few in N o v / D e c with a peak of 9 Dec 16th. St Johns Lake: 62 Jan 7th. 55 Jan 27th. 38 Feb 10th and 16 Mar 10th. 2 Jul 13th, 22 Aug 22nd increasing to 40 by 27th with 35 + regular into early October . 47 for much of N o v / D e c but 105 Dec 15th. Hayle Est: One or two regular J a n / F e b but 4 Jan 17th and 15 Mar 18th. One on the late date of Jun 4th. One Jul 14th and 5 to 7 regular Aug to Oct but 16 Aug 30th, 15 Sept 1st and 20th and 17 Sept 22nd. On Aug 14th 100 in summer plumage were present. PRW. Only a single Dec 3rd in the second winter. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were up to 9 at Mounts Bay, up to 6 at Par and one to three at Veryan Bay, Fa lmouth , Constant ine Bay and Kynance. Elsewhere in au tumn 220, mostly summer plumaged adults were noted flying west off Towan Head Aug 14th. RH and 25 were noted sheltering in Sennen Cove on Sept 2nd - a day of south easterly gales and torrential rain. Other records were received from Tamar Est, Hannafore , Ruan Lanihorne , Loe Bar, Gannel Est, Par , Lynher Est, St Ives Island, Pendeen and Rame Head . Most reports were of one to seven birds but there were 10 at Tamar Est and 8 each at Pendeen and St Ives. Inland there were one or two at Davidstow Aug 31st to Sept 12th and Oct 15th but 14 Oct 6th. At Stithians a juvenile was noted Nov 15th to 18th.

SANDERLING — Psssage migrant. Winter visitor.

As usual the largest numbers were reported from Mounts Bay, but there was a large off-passage party at Por thkidney Beach in mid August . Mounts Bay: 140 Jan 10th and 150 Jan 13th. 91 Feb 1st. Spring passage from April 29th to Jun 4th with max of 48 May 22nd. 25 + Sept 18th. 65/70 from Nov 24th to end of year. Camel Est: Ones and twos in first winter and spring. Au tumn passage July 14th to Oct 9th with peak of 36 Sept 20th. Spring passage was also noted at Par Beach where there were a max of 28 May 24th and Gyllyngvase, Fa lmouth 12 May 21st. At Par one or two were again noted Jul 17th to Sept 5th but 8 Aug 17th to 19th. At Por thkidney Beach there was an unusually large flock, possibly the largest ever in the county, on Aug 18th. DSF counted 243 and JH 300+ at different times of the day.

LITTLE STINT — Passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

A bird overwintered at Copperhouse , but having been described as an adult in December 1984, it was described as a first winter bird in January 1985. It was last noted Jan 10th and either moved out in front of the freeze or succumbed. There were no spring records and once again only a thin au tumn movement . Passage was very protracted, lasting from Aug 14th to Nov 25th with the majority moving through Sept 21st to 28th and a peak day count of only 7 Sept 25th. Towan Head: one west with other waders Aug 14th. Camel Est : ones and twos Aug 17th to Nov 6th. Drift Res: juvenile Aug 21st. Davidstowe Airfield: singles Aug 26th, Sept 4th to 8th, Oct 24th and Nov 5th but 4 Oct 7th. St Johns Lake: singles Aug 26th to 27th and Sept 8th. 2 Sept 28th. Hayle Est: singles Aug 31st and Sept 22nd. 2 Sept 28th then up to 3 Oct 1st to 14th. 5 Nov 5th. Copperhouse: singles Aug 15th, Sept 5th to 6th and 19th to 23rd. 4 Sept 25th, 6 on 26th and 4 on 27th. One to three until Oct 12th and a late bird Nov 22nd to 25th. Par Beach Pool : one Sept 4th. Restronguet Creek: juvenile Sept 17th. Stithians Res: juvenile Sept 23rd to 27th with a second bird on 25th. Near Kynance: 2 juveniles Sept 28th. Colliford Res: one Sept 29th. Gannel Est: one Oct 15th.

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Mounts Bay: one Oct 18th. Unusual was a first winter bird at Nanjizal Sept 25th. DSF.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER — Rare passage migrant.

A return to normal after the excesses of 1984. Sennen: one Aug 18th P H . Stithians Res: juvenile Sept 2nd and 3rd with the same or another Sept 9th and 10th. BC. SCH. Tresillian: one Sept 21st to 22nd J D . TMC. SR. Landulph Marsh: juvenile Sept 21st and 22nd A H J H . SMC. EG. RS et al. Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Oct 6th AMJ. IK.

CURLEW SANDPIPER — Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

A record year. A huge influx noted throughout the U.K. was equally apparent in Cornwall . Heavy passage was noted from Sept 7th to Oct 6th with a peak Sept 14th to 30th. The highest single day count in the county was 76 Sept 21st. Numbers were still well above average in October and a few birds stayed into November . Regular reports were received as follows: Hayle Est: noted from Jul 27th (one) to Oct 23rd (one) and two very late birds Nov 20th. Peak numbers were 15 Sept 20th, 17 Sept 22nd, 18 Sept 25th and 16 Oct 1st. Copperhouse: birds recorded here may have been the Hayle Est birds moving about at different states of the tide and day. Peak passage and numbers were similar to those on the estuary. There were max of 11 Sept 12th, 22 Sept 21st and 20 or 21 to 26th. Camel Est: noted from Aug 1st (2) to Oct 16th (2). Max were 9 Aug 8th, 27 Sept 20th, 29 on 21st and 26 Oct 2nd. Landulph Marsh: 2 Aug 12th. One Aug 30th and 2 Sept 21st. St Johns Lake: noted Aug 26th (1) to Oct 5th with peaks of 19 Sept 22nd and 24 Sept 30th. Davidstow Airfield: noted daily Aug 31st to Sept 14th (4 or 5) and up to 8 Oct 6th to 24th. Restronguet /Devoran Creek: noted Sept 1st to Oct 5th. One to three birds until Sept 28th when there were up to 12 until Oct 5th but a peak of 22 Oct 4th. Millbrook: one Oct 14th and 22nd. 3 to 5 Oct 30th to Nov 5th. Elsewhere there were singles at Marazion Aug 18th and Oct 31st, singles at Pa r Beach Aug 28th to Sept 8th and Sept 18th/19th, one at Fowey Est Sept 1st, 4 at Sennen Cove Sept 2nd, 3 at Gannel Est Sept 10th with one Oct 6th, 3 at T ru ro River Sept 15th with 4 on Oct 6th, 3 at Tamar Est Sept 23rd, 3 at Stithians Sept 24th and 25th, 6 at Ruan Lanihorne Sept 26th, one seen from RMV Scillonian Oct 12th, two at Tolcarne, Newquay Oct 12th, one at Lynher Est Oct 26th and one west at St Ives Sept 1st. One bird did not leave the county - it was taken by a Peregrine at Hayle Sept 21st.

PURPLE SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period the only double figure flock was at Penzance. 30 were present Jan 4th and 30/40 regularly until Mar 4th with a peak of 47 Feb 19th. Other sites, with max no ' s in parenthesis, as follows: Marazion (9), Hannafore (8), St Ives Island (5), Godrevy (5), Trebetherick (5), Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth (5), Spit Beach, Par (3), Towan Head (3), Por t sca tho (2) and Por t wrinkle (1). There was a light spring passage with max again at Penzance where there were 34 Apr 15th. Elsewhere there were 13 at Spit Beach May 4th, 11 at Bude Apr 22nd, 5 at St Ives May 8th and one to three birds at Towan Head , Trevose Head and Portwrinkle. The last was one at Towan Head May 21st.

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The first for au tumn was one at Pendeen on the early date of Sept 3rd but other than 5 at Mounts Bay Oct 10th there was only a single at Towan Head Oct 7th. In Nov /Dec numbers were again low with the regular Penzance peaking at 40 Dec 20th. 10 were noted at Hannafore , 3 at Godrevy, 2 at Mevagissey, 2 at Perranuthnoe and singles at St Ives, Towan Head, Bude and Rosemullion. Rather unusual were 22 at Sennen Dec 20th.

D U N L I N — Passage migrant . Winter visitor. Breeds?

During the breeding season there were birds at two sites on Bodmin Moor but breeding was not suspected. In the first winter period numbers were about average although a large flock was noted in Mounts Bay. These were probably birds displaced by the severe weather, as were smaller flocks at other localities where the species does not normally occur. Max no ' s at this time included; Camel Est: 1600 Jan 9th decreased to 900 Jan 31st to Feb 20th and 1000 Feb 27th. Quick exodus with only 290 remaining Mar 3rd. Hayle Est: 800 early in January reducing to 500 thoughout February and 300 Mar 3rd. St Johns Lake: 340 Feb 10th and 840 Mar 10th. Truro River/Tresill ian: 650 Jan 27th with 300/400 regular to Mar 3rd. Ruan Lanihorne: 400 Jan 11th to 14th. Mounts Bay: 800 Jan 10th moved on quickly because only 250 remained Jan 13th and 104 Jan 21st. Gerrans Bay: 240 roosting Feb 2nd. Spring passage was noted on most estuaries but numbers were low apart from May 20th to 22nd when larger flocks moved through with Sanderling. At this time the max were 110 at Camel Est May 20th and 21st, 140 at Hayle on 21st, 120 at Mounts Bay on 21st and 155 at Par on 21st. As in 1984 au tumn passage was light with few reports of gatherings in excess of 100; At Por thkidney Beach on Aug 18th, the day of the large Sanderling flock, JH counted 100+ Dunlin, but DSF counted 312 - another example of how transient birds were on that date . At Marazion there were 150 Aug 18th and at Sennen Cove, where up to 5 is the norm, 100 had been grounded and were sheltering from south east gales and torrential rain. VRT. Numbers at Hayle were very low but the Camel did attract 100 on Oct 19th. In the second winter period numbers appeared to be slightly below average: Camel Est: 528 Nov 21st. 700 Dec 4th but only 300 for the rest of the month . Hayle Est: 750 Nov 24th. 380 Dec 15th. St Johns Lake: 570 Nov 23rd increased to 1450 Dec 15th. Gerrans Bay: 200 roosting Dec 7th. Inland, birds were reported from the Davidstow Airf ield/Crowdy Res area in both winter periods and in au tumn . There were 20 Jan 30th to Mar 7th, a peak of 60 Aug 31st and 53 Dec 18th. At Stithians there were 30 Nov 23rd. There were much smaller flocks at other reservoirs.

BUFF-BREASTED S A N D P I P E R — Vagrant .

Davidstow Airfield: one Aug 30th to Sept 16th with a second bird Sept 7th to 13th. 2 Sept 22nd. J M R . A H J H . B R F . P H A . SJCx. e t al . Por thgwarra : one Sept 7th. R A . P H . VRT. Near Kynance: 3 juveniles Sept 28th. P H A . SJCx. BRF. and one Oct 1st. BC. P M c C . Now recorded in 9 consecutive years.

R U F F — Passage migrant . Scarce winter visitor.

In the first winter period reports were received of small numbers which had apparently at tached themselves to Lapwing and Golden Plover flocks which were fleeing from the poor weather. Seven were noted at Hayle Est Feb 2nd and 3 at

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Colliford Res Jan 12th but other reports concerned ones and twos at Copperhouse , Camel Est, Gannel Est, Lynher Est, St Johns Lake , Millbrook and Sheviock. Spring passage was light and noted from Apr 17th to May 14th with a peak Apr 17th to 20th. Most reports were of ones or twos but there were 3 at Goonhilly Apr 17th, 9 at Davidstow Apr 18th to 19th, and 6 at Skewjack Apr 23rd. Au tumn passage was poor even at Davidstow where there is normally a good, regular movement. Davidstow Airfield: noted Aug 19th to Oct 15th with max of 14 Sept 4th and 19 Sept 15th. Stithians Res: noted Aug 25th to Nov 2nd with max 15 Sept 6th and 19 Sept 25th. Hayle Est: normally one or two but 15 Aug 29th. Elsewhere there were no more than two at any site. As usual the species was almost completely absent in the second winter period. There were two at Tamar Lakes Nov 10th, 3 at Hayle Est Dec 3rd and two there on 15th, with possibly the same two at Marazion the same day.

JACK SNIPE — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Fewer reported this year, a l though this is no doubt due, in part at least, to lesser coverage of Bodmin Moor . In the first winter period most occurred during the January cold spell. Singles unless stated otherwise: Lynher Est: Jan 6th and Feb 17th. Por thgwarra : Jan 11th. Colliford: Jan 13th. Camel Est: Jan 14th and Feb 20th. Rushyford Gate: Jan 16th. Wheal Rodney, Marazion: Jan 18th. Drift Res: Jan 19th, 22nd and 31st. Feb 25th. Maer Lake. Jan 19th. Hayle Kimbro Pool : Jan 26th. Copperhouse: Jan 23rd to Feb 22nd. Harpurs Downs: Feb 4th. Bude Marshes: Mar 7th. None were reported in spring and only four in au tumn al though one of these was exceptionally early; Hayle Kimbro Pool : Jul 25th. EGe. Marazion: Oct 2nd and Nov 26th. Long Rock Pool : Oct 17th. Drift Res: Nov 10th. 2 Nov 22nd. Lower Tamar Lake: 3 Nov 16th, 7 Nov 23rd and 5 Dec 15th. Retallack: 2 Nov 19th. Stithians Res: Nov 23rd to 28th. 2 Dec 16th. Upper Fowey Valley: Dec 2nd and 7th. Near Kynance: Dec 8th. Lynher Est: Dec 12th.

SNIPE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the breeding season the populat ion at Colliford Res appeared to be much reduced owing to former breeding sites now under water. Possibly four pairs bred. On Jul 19th a 3/4 grown juvenile, barely able to fly, was flushed. JAdEM. In the Upper Fowey Valley two pairs were located but d rumming was heard only on May 23rd. JAdEM. At Rushyford Gate one was heard calling Jun 13th and at East Moor one pair was present. More then usual were noted in the first winter period with some notable concentrat ions: Maer Lake: 150 Jan 1st increased to 400 Jan 30th and 550 Feb 7th. Colliford Res: 150 Jan 13th and 100 Feb 17th. Skewjack: 200 Jan 23rd.

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50 to 100 were noted at Blackrock, Lostwithiel, Harlyn Bay, Camel Est and Harpurs Downs. Last in spring was one at Par Apr 28th. In au tumn a few were noted from mid August but numbers then and into the second winter were again only average. Lynher Est: 110 Dec 15th. Maer Lake: 300 Dec 22nd. 260 Dec 28th. 50 to 70 were reported from Stithians, Upper Tamer Res, Marazion and Crowdy Res.

LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER — Rare vagrant.

Davidstow Airfield: first winter bird Oct 21st to 25th. GPS. IK.

The sixteenth county mainland record with records in ten of the last eleven years.

WOODCOCK — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Widely scattered throughout the county in the first winter period, with records from 51 sites. As usual most reports were of ones and twos but there was an increase during the cold spell with the highest single day count of 49 on Jan 23rd. On this date the influx was particularly marked in West Penwith. There were three at Por thcurno , seven at Lamorna , ten at Skewjack and 27 at Por thgwarra . DSF. Other large numbers included 15 at Soapy Cove and 8 at Trethellan, Newquay Jan 20th and 10 at Hayle Rugby Field Jan 26th. Several birds were noted in strange locations including one at Penzance Harbour Jan 19th and one found dead under snow in Bude town centre Jan 18th. On Feb 25th RL was sitting on a cottage roof at Malpas , at dusk, looking for owls when he was almost displaced by a flight of six woodcock which flew low over the chimney. This flight was quickly followed by another flight, this time of 8 birds. In March there was one at Boscarne on 2nd and in April there was one at Upper Fowey Valley on 4th. The first for au tumn was one at Lizard Oct 23rd followed by the usual scatter of Nov /Dec records involving ones and twos at 23 localities. BLACK-TAILED GODWIT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Numbers were at about the average of recent years. The species was regular in both winter periods at: Truro River/Tresill ian: max 60 Jan 24th. 7 0 + Feb 10th. 92 Feb 17th. 14 June 27th to Aug 14th. 40 Sept 16th. 6 5 + Oct 24th. 52 Nov 19th. Ruan Lanihorne: 109 Jan 11th. 7 Jun 26th. 36 Jul 30th. 70 Aug 16th. 92 Sept 9fh and up to 90 to the end of the year. Res t ronguet /Devoran: 43 Jan 29th. 50 Mar 16th. 40 Sept 16th. 4 5 + Dec 23rd. Lynher Est: 50 Jan 10th. 35 Dec 12th. St Johns Lake /Mi l lb rook: 49 Jan 27th. 40 Oct 27th. 53 Nov 10th. 85 Nov 23rd. 80 Dec 21st. Elsewhere in spring there were 4 at Camel Est May 21st, and singles at Copperhouse May 4th to 6th and Gerrans Bay May 20th. Unusual was a flock of three at Hayle Kimbro Pool Apr 26th. Elsewhere in au tumn maximum numbers included 11 at Hayle Aug 4th, 38 at Tamar Est Sept 5th and 16 at Camel Est Sept 16th. Inland records: Stithians: 3 Aug 4th. 2 Aug 24th. Singles Aug 25th, Sept 13th and 14th. Upper Tamar Res: 16 flew over Aug 20th. Siblyback Res: 2 flew west Sept 3rd. Skewjack: 2 in fields Sept 15th. The movement of birds a round the Fal Est complex is little known or little unders tood. As this is a major area for this species in Cornwall , any information concerning flight pa ths , roosts etc. would be most welcome. This applies equally to most other wader species using the complex - records in recent years have been

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somewhat less than comprehensive. RL considers that birds use a regular flyway over the hills between Calenick and Tresillian and that records at Malpas are unusual . 7 birds at Tresillian on May 11th may well have been the same as 7 seen at Calenick and then Devoran on 13th indicating the mobility of the species in search of food.

BAR-TAILED GODWIT — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Although the species was relatively scarce in the first winter period, it did appear to be more widespread than normal . Spring passage, unlike 1984, was poor this year. Fair numbers in au tumn and second winter. Regular reports from: Camel Est: 40 Jan 23rd and about 30 throughout Feb. 20 Sept 6th increasing to 100 by 12th and 125 on 21st. Decrease to 90 Oct 2nd. 35 Nov 4th. 30/40 to end of year. Hayle Est: 25 Jan 10th. 24 Feb 23rd. 7 Mar 10th and one ' summered ' . 2 Jul 14th. Up to 6 in Aug with a notable influx in Sept. 36 on 15th, 44 on 23rd and 100 on 28th. 58 still present Oct 13th but only 4 on 27th. Increase to 28 Nov 16th to Dec 15th. St Johns Lake: 20 Jan 26th but no more reports until 7 Mar 10th and 13 Mar 24th. 14 Sept 15th. 22 Sept 29th then up to 30 to the end of Oct but a decrease to 11 Dec 1st. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were 35 at Mounts Bay Jan 10th to 21st, then present to Feb 15th with max of 28 Feb 2nd. No other site held more than 20 birds. Spring passage may have commenced with a party of 18 that flew in from the sea and settled on Culdrose Airfield Mar 16th. There was no concentrated coastal passage this year and the last was a single at Par May 26th. Elsewhere in au tumn there were regular reports from Res t ronguet /Devoran Creeks where there was a flock of 25 Sept 25th to the end of Oct . There was also 2 4 + Dec 23rd. Apart from Lynher Est where there was 20 Dec 28th, no other site at tracted more than 20 in au tumn and second winter. Inland, six flew west at Stithians Sept 5th, seven were at Kynance Sept 7th and 5 were at Davidstow Airfield Oct 6th. There was a single at the last site Oct 24th. In autumn there were also several records of birds passing coastal headlands. By far the highest count was 190 Aug 14th off Towan Head . Many of these were in summer plumage. RH. Unusual was an aberrant at Eastern Green Jan 13th which had a broad white bar across the base of its primaries. A H J H .

WHIMBREL — Passage migrant. A few winter.

Birds were noted in both winter periods as follows: St Germans /Lynher Est: 2 Jan 9th. One Dec 8th later flew towards the coast. Millbrook: one or two Feb 2nd to Mar 7th. 3 Nov 23rd and one Dec 15th. Camel Est: one Feb 27th to Mar 20th. One Nov 4th and 11th. Rame Head/Penlee Point : one Mar 5th and 17th. One Nov 2nd. Elsewhere in the first winter period there was one at Rinsey Head Jan 5th and probably the same bird at Pe r ranu thnoe Jan 19th. One flew in off the sea at Mullion Feb 28th. Elsewhere in the second winter period there were singles at Gerrans Bay on several dates Nov 1st to Dec 9th, but 2 Dec 3rd. 2 flew east at Loe Bar Dec 7th. Spring passage apparently commenced with one at Gerrans Bay Apr 6th but few were noted until after Apr 16th. Passage was not as heavy as in 1984, with most moving through Apr 26th to May 4th and a peak day count of 244 on Apr 28th. Max no 's included 50 at Hayle Apr 19th, 100 in off the sea at Marazion Apr 28th, 60 at Nanquidno the same day and 40 flew nor th at Bude the same day. On 29th 60 + were noted at Bude and there were 75 at Gwithian. 70 were at the last site May 1st.

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The first for au tumn was one at St Johns Lake Jun 22nd. There were only three more birds in late June and very few in July. Passage was more noticeable through Aug and into mid Sept but al though records were widespread, numbers were low with a peak day count of only 112 on Aug 31st. Passage apparently ceased Oct 27th. Max no ' s included 61 west Aug 12th and 70 west Sept 4th at Towan Head, 37 at St Johns Lake Aug 13th, 43 west Aug 31st and 40 west Sept 1st at St Ives and 30 at Hayle Est Aug 31st.

C U R L E W — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant . Winter visitor.

On Bodmin Moor single pairs were present during the breeding season at Upper Fowey Valley, East Moor , Goodaver Marsh , Fox Tor Marsh, Catshole Tor , King Ar thurs Downs. There were two pairs at Temple Tor Pools and 4 pairs at Colliford. Elsewhere a pair bred at Croft Pascoe Pool and a pair were displaying April at Goss Moor . Regular reports were received from the following sites: Hayle Est: 264 were present Jan 3rd but there was a huge count of 888 Feb 13th. DSF . This must be one of the highest counts ever on this estuary. In spring there was a max of only 35 Apr 28th but in au tumn an excellent passage was reported. 160 Jul 28th had increased to 300 Aug 11th and 800 Sept 19th. Only 340 remained on 23rd and there were few in O c t / N o v but 530 Dec 15th. Camel Est: 175/225 regular until Feb 13th but then a cold weather influx of 450 Feb 20th and 700 Feb 22nd to 27th. 500 remained Mar 14th but only 150 Apr 2nd. In au tumn 261 Jul 2nd had increased to 500 Jul 23rd to 31st and 700 Aug 9th. 600/700 were present until Oct 13th when there was a dramatic decrease to only 200 at the end of the year. There were 400 after cold weather Nov 13th and 250 Dec 4th. Elsewhere in the first half of the year large numbers were reported as follows: Tresillian: 120 J a n / F e b but 326 Mar 3rd. There were also 150/250 at Ruan Lanihorne, Devoran, Truro , Gannel Est, Bude and Lynher Est. Elsewhere in the second half of the year large numbers were reported as follows: Ruan Lanihorne: 350 Jun 26th. 550 Jul 8th. 362 Aug 29th. 400 Sept 9th but down to 230 Oct 13th. Res t ronguet /Devoran Creek: 530 Aug 17th. 370 Sept 30th but only 200 in October . Truro River: 270 mid July to mid Aug. 300 Aug 31st and Sept 28th. 320 Oct 5th. Tresillian: 180 Jun 28th. 170 Sept 21st. (The peak count on the Fal complex may well be in the region of 1500 birds). Lynher Est: 640 Jul 26th and 560 Sept 27th. A coastal roost at Par at tracted 150 Dec 9th and 120 Dec 29th, whilst one at Hannafore at tracted 76 birds Dec 26th.

S P O T T E D R E D S H A N K — Passage migrant . Uncommon winter visitor.

In the first winter period, regular at Lynher Est (max 11 Jan 13th), St Johns Lake (8 Feb 10th), Tresillian (7 Jan 5th). At the first two sites there may well have been some interchange but the Lynher Est is now considered to be the third most important wintering site for the species in the U.K. One or two were also seen during Jan and Feb at Camel Est, Ruan Lanihorne and Truro River. There were also 4 at Landulph Marsh which may have derived from the Lynher or may have been early migrants . Spring passage was noted Apr 9th to May 31st, but there were ones and twos only at Tresillian, Devoran, Gannel Est, Camel Est and Tamar Lakes. At Hayle Est one or two were regular but 3 were present Apr 19th. In au tumn birds were seen on most estuaries and on some reservoirs from Jun 24th. The max were: Ruan Lanihorne: 6 Jul 8th and Aug 3rd. 4 Aug 19th. It is worth noting that al though most of the early passage migrants still occur at this locality the numbers

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have declined quite dramatically in recent years. Lynher Est: ones and twos Aug 17th to late Sept. 13 Sept 29th and 16 Oct 14th. Tresillian: 5 Sept 21st and 22nd. 9 Oct 3rd and 11 Oct 27th and 28th. In the second winter period the Lynher Est was once again the most impor tant site with a maximum of 18 Dec 12th to the end of the year. At Tresillian there was a maximum of 10 Dec 8th but elsewhere there were only singles at Stithians, Copperhouse and Camel est.

REDSHANK — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Numbers throughout the year were once again rather low especially in the winter periods. An increase in March may have referred to birds displaced by the freeze, returning. Spring passage was poor and as usual went virtually unnoticed. Autumn passage commenced Jun 14th and was noted at all the usual areas. There were regular reports from the following sites: Ruan Lanihorne: 120 Jan 6th then up to 80 until Mar 11th when 146 counted. 24 Apr 2nd. 143 Jul 30th. 100+ Aug 16th, 105 Sept 15th. 120 Nov 10th to Dec 23rd. Camel Est: 80 Jan 9th to 31st. 69 Feb 28th. 70 Mar 20th and 13 Apr 17th. 30 July rising to 70 Aug 13th and 100 Sept 12th. 115 Sept 17th. 93 Oct 9th. Late passage of 140 Nov 1st and 150 Nov 16th but only 60 Dec 4th. St Johns Lake: 81 Mar 10th. 80 Jul 13th. 240 at roost Sept 22nd and 200 Oct 12th. 150 Nov 5th. 81 Dec 15th. Devoran/Restronguet Creek: 100 Mar 16th. 124 Jul 13th and 160 regular to Oct 5th with a peak of 188 Sept 30th. Elsewhere in the first half of the year there were 50/70 birds at Hayle Est, Tresillian and Lynher Est. Elsewhere in the second half of the year the following max were reported: Truro River: 135 Jul 20th. 160 Aug 3rd and up to 150 to Oct 12th. 170 Nov 12th. Tamar Est: 251 Jul 19th. 210 Aug 18th. Millbrook: usually 60/100 but 200 Oct 7th. Lynher Est: 120 Aug 17th. Tresillian: 110 Nov 10th. Elsewhere there were 80/100 at Hayle Est and Fowey Est .

GREENSHANK — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Present at most estuaries in both winter periods with max no ' s as follows: Camel Est: 7 Jan 9th and 10 Jan 23rd. 11 Mar 20th. 14 Nov 1st. 8 Dec 4th. St Johns Lake: 7 Jan 7th. 8 Mar 10th. 15 Nov 10th. Tresillian: 5 Jan 22nd. 6 Nov 10th. 7 Dec 14th. Lynher Est: 5 Mar 3rd and 8 Dec 15th. Ruan Lanihorne: 13 Dec 1st. Spring passage was noted on most estuaries between Apr 1st and Jun 13th with the majority of birds passing through in late April . Max were 11 at Truro River Apr 7th, 10 at St Just Creek Apr 18th and 7 at Bude Apr 18th and Ruan Lanihorne Apr 25th. In autumn there were good totals on the Camel Est and St Johns Lake as usual, but the numbers reported from various localities on the Fal complex tend to suggest that if co-ordinated counts took place here, this would probably prove to be the most important area for the species in Cornwall . Max numbers: St Johns lake/Mil lbrook: one Jun 22nd then no more unil Aug 18th. 20 Aug 31st and Sept 6th. 21 Sept 28th and 22 Oct 5th. Camel Est: 5 Jul 23rd. 26 Sept 14th. 28 Sept 17th. 30 Sept 20th to Oct 2nd. Truro River: 13 Jul 20th. 18 Aug 3rd. 14 Sept 15th. Restronguet Creek /Devoran : 20 Sept 16th. 14 Sept 28th. Ruan Lanihorne: 17 Sept 26th.

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GREEN SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. A few winter.

Very few in either winter period, a diabolical spring and a lamentable au tumn. In the first winter period there were singles at Hayle Jan to Mar but 2 Feb 3rd and 27th, Tamar Est Jan 13th, Camel Est Feb 13th and Por th Res Feb 23rd to 28th. In spring there were singles only at Hayle, Gannel Est, Tamar Lake and Copperhouse . A u t u m n passage commenced with one at Retallack Jul 3rd. There were reports of birds, mainly singles, at 30 sites. There was no particularly marked passage with peak day counts of only 6 Aug 19th and Sept 6th. The water levels on most reservoirs were far too high to encourage any birds to stay for any length of t ime. The maximum count at Stithians was 3 Aug 19th and at Drift there were none. BP commented that there were none seen or heard at Long Rock in July for the first time since 1971, The small marsh at Landulph , with its muddy margins attracted more birds than any other site. The max here were 5 Sept 18th. As usual there were a few records from unusual localities. This year they included one in Mevagissey Harbour Sept 6th and one flying west low over the sea at Rame Head Sept 15th. In the second winter period there were singles at Hayle throughout Nov /Dec , Stithians Nov 17th and 28th, Camel Est Dec 14th to 16th, College Res Dec 23rd and Loe Pool Dec 28th.

WOOD SANDPIPER — Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn).

One spring record but a meagre showing in au tumn . The same comments concerning reservoir levels apply equally to this species as it does to Green Sandpiper. In fact there was only one reservoir record for the year and that bird moved on after only two days. Sennen: one Apr 23rd. Hayle Kimbro Pool : one Jul 19th. Landulph Marsh: 2 Jul 21st. Siblyback Res: one Aug 15th and 16th. Copperhouse : one Jul 31st. Another Aug 16th to 21st but 3 on 19th. Hayle Est: 2 Aug 17th, one 18th and 2 again on 31st. Harlyn Bay: one Aug 28th. Par Beach: one Sept 5th. Camel Est: one Sept 18th to 20th.

COMMON SANDPIPER — Passage migrant. Uncommon winter visitor.

In the first winter period there were a few more reports than normal , but most referred to birds noted prior to the very cold spell. There were singles at Gweek, Polbathic , Sheviock, St Germans Quay, Par Beach, Tresillian, Tamar Est, Egloshayle, Ruan Lanihorne and St Clement in January and at Maer Lake in February . Spring passage was noted at most estuaries and some reservoirs from Mar 30th to Jun 3rd. The majority of birds were reported Apr 17th to 29th with a peak day count of 26 Apr 17th. Most reports were of ones and twos but at Hayle there were 10 Apr 17th, 15 Apr 28th and 7 May 6th. There were 6 at Loe Pool Apr 17th, 10 at Tamar Lakes May 2nd and 5 at Camel Est Apr 17th. A u t u m n passage apparently commenced Jun 24th and was both widespread and protracted. Despite numbers were very low with a peak day count of only 24 Aug 15th. There was no pronounced *movement with the bulk of the birds passing through mid July to the end of August . Few were noted in September and there were reports of only six singles in October . Largest gatherings included 12 at Hayle Jul 19th, 11 at Stithians Aug 25th, 10 at Camel Est Sept 14th and 9 at Fowey Est Aug 6th. In the second winter period there were singles at Lerryn, Percuil , Stithians, Turnaware Point , Tresillian, East Looe River, Hayle Est , St Winnow and Lynher

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Est. An interesting record involved 5 at Por th Res Nov 20th PJD. This is not a recognised wintering site and indeed there were no other reports here in either winter period. It is however a very late date for passage birds and one can only asume that they had been displaced by cold weather and arrived perhaps with wildfowl

TURNSTONE — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few 'summer'.

Present at most suitable coastal sites with slightly higher numbers than in recent years. In the first winter period the max were 70 at Mounts Bay Jan 10th increasing to 100 Feb 2nd. 46 were at Hayle Est during Feb and up to 40 were at Camel Est, Gerrans Bay and Mevagissey. In Spring there were 40 at Mevagissey May 3rd and 65 al Par Beach May 6th. In June there were 8 at To wan Head on 9th, 7 at Copperhouse and 20 at St Johns Lake on 30th. In au tumn and the second winter period the largest flock was reported from Hannafore . There were 50 in late Sept, 80 Oct 29th and 200 Dec 9th to 14th. Elsewhere there were 59 at Hayle Sept 21st and 55 N o v / D e c , 43 at Gerrans Bay Dec 2nd and 50 at Marazion Dec 27th. 50 at Ear th Island, Lynher Est was an unusually large concentration so far up the estuary. Inland: Davidstow Airfield: 2 Jan 1st. Present in au tumn from Aug 19th to Sept 3rd with max of 4 Aug 25th to 29th. Near Kynance: 3 Jan 20th, 4 Feb 17th and 15 Apr 7th. Upper Tamar Res: 2 Aug 15th. Stithians Res: one Aug 28th. 8 flew south Sept 2nd. Drift Res: one Dec 8th and 8 Dec 27th. Single colour dyed birds noted at Hayle Est May 24th and Mounts Bay Jun 2nd had been marked at Wembury , Devon on May 4th. DSF. CNT reports that whilst he was fishing at Godrevy on Sept 17th, every so often small stones would roll down the cliff face. Close inspection revealed four turnstones feeding about 40 feet up the cliff.

WILSONS PHALAROPE — Rare vagrant.

Landulph Marsh: a first winter bird Oct 4th to 6th. GRW. MW. MDR. A H J H . EG. Camel Est: one Oct 31st JAdEM et al. The 16th and 17th county mainland records but the first since 1981. The Landulph bird accepted by BBRC.

GREY PHALAROPE — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

The only first winter record was a single at Eastern Green Jan 9th. Autumn passage was very poor and there were only two in December. St Ives Island. A very early bird Aug 5th, 5 Sept 3rd, 2 Sept 5th, 3 Oct 9th. Singles Oct 12th and Nov 5th, 10th and 11th. Porthgwarra: 7 Aug 11th. Towan Head: singles Aug 22nd, Sept 5th, Oct 9th and Dec 22nd. 3 Oct 4th. Kenidjack: 10 Aug 24th. West Pentire: 2 Aug 25th. Pendeen: 2 Aug 24th, 3 Aug 25th, one Aug 31st and 5 Sept 5th. Rumps Point : one Sept 3rd. Bude: one found dead on golf course and another in a boat near the breakwater Sept 24th. One Sept 30th and one in the River Nee t /Bude Marshes area Dec 8th to 11th. Penzance: one Oct 5th and 12th. Hayle Est: one first year bird found dead, was a road casualty Oct 8th. One Oct 11th. At St Ives Bay on Oct 9th one was repeatedly stooped on by a Peregrine. The phalarope was taken on the ninth s toop.

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POMARINE SKUA — Uncommon passage migrant.

A good year with some interesting spring and late au tumn records. Spring records: Rame Head: On May 6th a tight flock of 8 pale phase adults flew west at 0630 hours . Between then and 0900 hours 5 pale phase adults flew east and one dark phase flew west. All birds had full, twisted tail feathers. P H A . JFB. SJCx. AHJH. BRF. 5 miles south of Polper ro : 2 pale phase adults flew south May 12th PS. Rosemullion Head: one sub adult pale phase flew south May 25th. BC. PMcC. A u t u m n records: Por thgwarra : one west Jun 23rd DSF. SCH. LPW. an adult and a sub adult Jul 18th BC. one Aug 2nd P H . a second year VRT and a juvenile on Aug 4th P H A . JFB. BRF. one Aug 14th PH and one dark juv . Sept 1st. AM J. IK. Towan Head: single pale phase adults Aug 19th and Sept 3rd. RH. DMY. SMC. BTSC. 3 Sept 5th, one Sept 10th and two pale phase adults Oct 4th. GJC. RH. SMC. Kenidjack: one Aug 24th. RA. P H . Pendeen: one Aug 25th P H . pale phase adult Sept 1st PGA. DJC. MAH. 4 juvs. Sept 3rd, 2 juvs west Sept 5th and one juv west Nov 5th. RA. PH. VRT. CCB. Rumps Point : an adult and two juvs Sept 1st. GJC. St Ives: 3 Sept 1st, 2 Sept 3rd, 3 Sept 5th, one Sept 15th, one Nov 5th and up to 6 including two pale adults Nov 10th. DSF et al. Pentire Poin t : 3 Sept 2nd. RA. Reskajeage: a dark immature west Oct 9th. PMcC. Por thcurno : a juv Oct 9th TRC. RMV Scillonian: an adult Oct 12th EG. Rosemullion Head: 33 south, including 21 in one hour (1105 to 1205 hours) Nov 4th and 2 juvs . Dec 1st. BC. The Rosemullion Head watch of Nov 4th was conducted in a SSE force 6 backing SE force 6 later. It was initially fine but light rain later. BC missed the first 1.5 hours of daylight, otherwise the count may well have been much higher. He comments that this sea-watch aligns very neatly with the ' thousands ' of T o m s ' in the Nor th Sea in early Nov as reported in 'British Birds ' . He considers it the strongest indicator to date that some of our south coast seabird movements in au tumn derive from the Nor th Sea and not all are displaced from the western approaches . No shearwaters were noted throughout the watch, but 13 Little Gulls passed, a typical Cap Griz Nez phenomena .

ARCTIC SKUA — Passage migrant.

Spring passage birds were noted from Apr 4th to May 25th, mostly in ones and twos, at a total of eight sites. Larger numbers included 8 west at Towan Head Apr 13th, 3 west and 2 east at Rame Head May 6th and 3 west off Downderry May 5th. A u t u m n passage was more pronounced than in 1984 with records from 29 sites. Max no ' s as follows: Por thgwarra : 73 passed west between Jun 23rd and Dec 2nd with a peak of 13 Aug 27th. St Ives Island: 307 passed west between Aug 1st and Nov 30th with peaks of 25 Aug 31st, 56 Sept 1st, 105 Sept 3rd and 63 Sept 5th. Towan Head: 83 west between Jul 19th and Nov 10th with peaks of 23 Sept 3rd and 11 Sept 5th. Pendeen: 270 west between Aug 24th and Nov 5th with peaks of 27 on Aug 24th, 31 Aug 25th, 120 Sept 3rd and 37 Sept 5th. Other large numbers included 40 west at Godrevy Sept 1st and 23 off Rosemullion Head Nov 4th. Birds were seen flying south overland at Lelant Sept 1st MPS, St Ives Sept 14th RS and more unusually, at Lanivet on Sept 3rd. JH. Inland there were singles at Colliford Res Sept 6th BTC and Crowdy Res Sept 7th. A M J. IK.

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On Sept 5th at Pendeen VRT noted that several birds were flying in a high, arching and shearing manner reminiscent of Great Shearwater. He had not previously recorded this mode of flight and a search of the literature proved fruitless.

LONG-TAILED SKUA — Rare passage migrant.

Another good year. Por thgwarra : an adult in full breeding plumage Aug 7th CB. Rumps Point : one Sept 3rd PS. Pendeen: 2 juvs west Sept 3rd. One of these was as big as a small Arctic Skua. It was an intermediate plumaged bird with an off-white head and slaty grey general plumage. The other was more petite and of a more typical structure, al though probably not of the smallest cline. This bird was paler, with upperparts a cold mid-grey and underparts lighter grey. VRT. RA. P H . 2 juvs west Sept 5th. One was a small dark phase bird with dull, dark brown overall plumage and only a pale collar. The other was also a small, rakish dark phase similar tin plumage to the first but lacking the pale collar. VRT. An intermediate phase juv flew west Sept 15th. This bird had mid grey upperpar ts and a very dark brown head forming a ' h o o d ' . Underwing and underparts below throat pale grey. White line on first and second primaries and very pale creamy uppertail coverts. P H A . JFB. BRF. A H J H . MPS. St Ives: one pale phase west Sept 15th DSF. Rosemullion Head: one pale phase Nov 4th. BC.

GREAT SKUA — Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor.

In the first winter period singles were seen off St Ives on Jan 6th and 28th. In spring birds were noted at 11 localities between March 3rd and May 6th. Most were noted Apr 13th/14th but apar t from 3 west at each of Towan Head and St Ives on Apr 13th all reports involved ones and twos. In au tumn there were reports from 22 sites with max as follows: Por thgwarra: one west Jun 21st, 13 Jun 23rd, 14 west during July with max 9 on 28th. 128 west during Aug with max of 21 on 4th, 20 on 14th and 40 on 18th. In Sept a total of 41 with max of 24 on 2nd. One Oct 6th. Pendeen: one Jun 22nd, 13 Aug 31st, 48 Sept 1st, 81 Sept 3rd, 10 Sept 15th and singles Nov 1st and 5th. St Ives: 22 west in Aug with max 18 on 5th. 191 in Sept with max 40 on 1st, 87 on 3rd and 31 on 17th. 8 in Oct with max of 5 on 5th. Singles Nov 5th and 9th with 2 on 10th. Towan Head: 5 in Aug . 19 in Sept and one Oct 4th. Elsewhere there were 11 off Bass Point Aug 27th, 18 south west off Cape Cornwall Sept 17th and 12 seen from RMV Scillonian Oct 12th. In December there were 2 off Por thgwarra on 2nd, 3 passed south at Rosemullion Head on 2nd, 2 at St Ives on 14th, one off Mevagissey on 21st, Jingles off Rame Head and Towan Head on 22nd and two more off Towan Head on 31st.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Mounts Bay: an adult in winter plumage Jan 1st to Mar 6th was joined by 2 others Jan 6th. On Mar 1st an adult moult ing into summer plumage was noted and this bird stayed until 4th. Possibly the same bird, now in full summer plumage was noted Mar 11th to 22nd. An adult in winter plumage was present Sept 14th to 16th and another Oct 3rd to 13th. A first winter bird was present Sept 15th to Oct 17th and a second winter bird Nov 5th to 14th. Sennen: an adult following the plough Jan 11th. Drift: an adult Jan 1st and 2nd and a second winter bird Jan 15th. Hayle Es t /Copperhouse : a winter plumaged adult Feb 7th to Mar 10th was joined by a second on the last date . Second winter Feb 2nd to 28th and another Mar 13th to 16th. From Jul 26th to Aug 19th a juvenile in very fresh plumage not normally seen in Cornwall . Two more juveniles were present Aug 11th and an adult Jul 28th. Two

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of the juveniles remained until Aug 17th with one to Sept 11th, A first winter was noted Sept 11th to Oct 11th with a second bird Sept 21st. There was also an adult Sept 11th to 17th, a second winter Sept 12th to 19th and another first winter Nov 24th. St Ives: a second winter Jan 6th and another Mar 13th. A juvenile moulting to first Carbis Bay. 2 second winters Mar 17th. Pennance Point , Fa lmouth : an adult Jan 11th and a second winter Feb 12th. Pa r Beach: a second winter Jan 29th and a different bird Feb 6th to ,10th. An adult in winter plumage Feb 21st and a first winter Oct 31st. \: Siblyback Res: a second winter Feb 8th, 2 adults in winter plumage Feb 8th and one on 23rd. Lynher Est: a second winter Feb 9th and 27th. Torpoint : an adult Feb 16th. Camel Est: an adult in summer plumage Feb 23rd. A first winter Sept 17th to 20th and the same or another Oct 2nd and 6th. Millbrook: a second winter Sept 5th. Gannel Est: a first winter Sept 13th and Oct 12th and probably the same bird off To wan Head Oct 4th. Bude: 3 first winters and 2 adults noted on various dates Sept 14th to Dec 25th. Reskajeage Sewer: a first winter Sept 17th and a second winter Sept 19th. Rame Head: an adult Oct 27th. Fowey Est: a first winter Nov 1st. Tamar Lakes: an adult Nov 10th and 23rd and a first winter Nov 23rd. Kennack Sands: an adult Nov 22nd.

LITTLE GULL — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

In the first winter period numbers were low with a maximum of 9 birds in the county Feb 20th. At most sites there were only singles or twos but there were larger numbers as follows: At Carbis Bay there were 3 first winters Jan 22nd and 7 adults Feb 20th. At Eastern Green Beach, Penzance there were 2 adults and a second winter present Feb 3rd and 4 first winters Feb 26th. In spring there was a first winter at Marazion Apr 1st and an adult at Copperhouse Apr 16th to 17th. At Millbrook there was a first winter / summer bird May 5th to 27th and an adult in summer plumage Apr 29th. A u t u m n passage was poor with records of mainly single, juveniles or first winter birds at a total of ten sites. The exceptions were 3 juveniles west off St Ives Sept 1st and 3 first winters at Crowdy Res Oct 24th. In November 13 passed south off Rosemullion Head on 4th and 15 moved west at St Ives on 10th. The only December record involved a bird at Swanpool which had arrived Oct 24th and stayed into 1986.

Looe: an adult Nov 24th.

LITTLE GULL Renfred Hathway

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SABINES GULL — Scarce passage migrant (autumn).

Towan Head: an adult in summer plumage Aug 7th RH, an immature Aug 31st GJC. SR. an adult in summer plumage Sept 1st SMC. EJC. 2 adults and two immatures Sept 3rd SMC. RL. SR. and another immature Sept 14th SMC. Pendeen: one Aug 24th P H , 2 immatures and two adults Aug 25th RA. P H , 2 immatures Sept 1st PGA. M A H . VRT, 2 adults and 7 immatures Sept 3rd RA. P H . VRT. and two adults and 2 immatures Sept 5th VRT. Kenidjack: an immature Aug 24th RA. P H . St Ives: one Aug 31st, 3 or 4 immatures Sept 1st, 15 including 4 adults Sept 3rd, 2 Sept 5th, 5 Sept 15th and one Sept 17th. DSF. SR. A R P . RS et al.

BLACK-HEADED GULL — Breeds regularly at one site. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Bred as usual at Crowdy Res where 100 were present May 5th, 80 including 2 juveniles Jun 26th and 40 with 2 0 + juveniles Jul 11th. Also bred at Colliford Res where at least 20 pairs were present May 28th. There were some high counts during the first winter period with max no ' s : Bude: 3000 Jan 4th and Feb 1st. Camel Est: 3000+ Jan 12th increasing to 8550 Jan 31st. 5000 were noted roosting Feb 23rd. Hayle Est: 2300 Jan 19th, 4400 Feb 9th and 2000 Mar 3rd. Par : 8000+ at roost Jan 23rd and 3000 Jan 26th. Mounts Bay: 2500 Feb 4th. 1000/2000 noted at Drift, Ruan Lanihorne , Carrick Roads , Gannel Est and St Johns Lake. In the au tumn and second winter period the max were: Par : 1000 Jul 10th and 2500 Sept 10th. Lynher Est: 2000 Jul 27th and Sept 10th. Camel Est: 2017 Jul 30th, 2315 Aug 14th, 3500 Sept 23rd. 2427 Oct 9th, 6000 Nov 1st, 4000 Dec 4th. Ruan Lanihorne: 3000 Aug 16th. Hayle Est: 1320 Sept 15th and 2600 Dec 15th. Tresillian: 2200 Sept 21st. 750/1250 were present at Gweek, Devoran, Looe and Mil lbrook. Unusual : Drift Res: a leucistic adult Feb 26th. All white except for hood which was pale brown and the primaries which were pale brown where they should have been black. CCB. Camel Est: an all-white adult Sept 12th. Legs pink, bill red and a faint flush of fawn on the underwing. Possible hybrid Black-headed/Medi terranean Gull? JAdEM. St Clement: two birds Sept 21st observed chasing a leaf in the air. One bird caught it, the other gave chase causing the first bird to drop the leaf. J D .

RING-BILLED GULL — Vagrant.

Another excellent year. In the first winter period numbers were difficult to evaluate because of the probability of movement between various sites. Copperhouse: The 1984 first winter bird was noted until May 6th. A second winter winter bird, presumed the same returned Oct 16th and remained into 1986. It was also occasionally seen on the main estuary and on Carnsew Poo l . DSF. LPW. et al. Par : The 1984 first winter bird was noted until Mar 3rd MO. 2 adults were present Feb 10th. PGA. DJC. Swanpool: The 1984 second winter bird was last noted Feb 23rd. MO. An adult Jan 1st SCH An adult Dec 18th to 23rd A R P . Marazion: a first winter Jan 8th and 20th CCB. The same or another Mar 4th, 15th and 16th PGA. CCB. MPS and a second winter Mar 2nd, 15th and 16th. CCB. MPS. LPW.

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Helston: a first winter Jan 13th and 23rd. P H A . JFB. SJCx. BRF. AHJH. MPS and an adult Jan 23rd. MPS. Siblyback Res: Adults Jan 30th and Feb 9th and a first winter Feb 8th. PGA. DJC. JAdEM. Camel Est: a first winter Feb 13th to 23rd. PGA. DJC. M A H . Lynher Est: a first winter Feb 27th SCM. Hayle Est: a first winter, not the Copperhouse bird, Mar 3rd to 11th. DSF. SCH. LPW. and a second winter Mar 1st to 3rd. JH. SCH. LPW. Millbrook: a first winter Mar 3rd to Apr 1st. KP. SCM. BTC. MPF. The same or another May 2nd and 7th RWG. SCM. An adult Nov 16th to Dec 8th AHJH et al. and second winters Nov 23rd AB and Dec 27th SCM. All accepted by BBRC.

COMMON GULL — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few 'summer'

Some exceptional numbers in the first winter period with huge roost at Par and good numbers visiting Siblyback Res. The maximum at this t ime were: Par : Roost noted Jan 12th to Feb 21st with birds forming a compact flock off the beach. 1000+ Jan 12th, 1500 Feb 6th, 2000 Feb 10th and 2000+ Feb 21st. Siblyback Res: Between Jan 30th and Feb 24th, during the late mornings, birds were noted flying in from the south to bathe and feed in the fields a round the reservoir. The numbers involved were exceptional for Bodmin Moor , but it is not known from which roost they orginated. It is thought likely that they came from Par , because Mediterranean and Ring-billed Gulls noted with them were also located at Pa r . There were 850 Jan 30th, 750+ Feb 8th, 1000 Feb 9th and subsequently many fewer. PGA. DJC. Camel Est: 450 Jan 31st, 400 Feb 14th and 1000 Feb 15th. Gannel Est: 450 Feb 15th. Hayle Est: 300 Feb 2nd. Millbrook: 380 Feb 23rd. Lynher Est: 450 Feb 27th and 300 Mar 3rd. In the second winter period flocks were generally smaller, al though there were 600 at Camel Est Nov 1st increasing to 1000 Dec 12th. Elsewhere there were 200 at Siblyback Dec 11th, 350 at Lynher Est Dec 12th and 126 at Hayle Est Dec 15th. Unusual : Camel Est: On Oct 31st about 20 birds were watched washing and preening in two to six inches of water on a rising tide. One individual was particularly active in its ablut ions. It was seen on a number of occasions to roll over onto its side and then its back with its legs paddling in the air and its wings thrashing. After about ten seconds it would resume its more natural upright pose. JAdEM.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey (page 134) Numbers were very good in the first winter period and included an unprecendented count at Hayle during the February passage period. Camel Est: 425 Jan 9th, 142 Feb 13tn and lesser numbers into March. Hayle Est: 300 Jan 18th increased rapidly to 918 Jan 28th, 1000 Feb 2nd and c.3500 Feb 15th DSF. This is the highest count ever at Hayle and is almost certainly the highest ever in the county. 1200 remained Mar 3rd but there was then a dramatic decrease to 230 Mar 4th and 69 Apr 21st. Elsewhere in J a n / F e b there were max of 200 at Par Feb 10th, 70 at Loe Pool Feb 14th and 80 at Pentewan Feb 2nd. In M a r / A p r birds were still moving through the county but in much lower numbers . Significant concentrat ions included 225 on East Looe River Mar 3rd, 150 at Lynher Est the same day, 100 at an evening roost at Por thpean Mar 22nd and Apr 13th, 150 at Gannel Est Apr 13th and 180 sheltering in a field at Winnards Perch the same day.

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As in 1984 the au tumn build up of birds on Bodmin Moor began in mid June with mainly sub adults being present. The main daytime feeding area was on pastureland to the east of Palmersbridge and to the nor th of the A30 road . Augmented by juveniles the flock gradually increased in size in au tumn. One of the fields at Higher Langdon Farm in the Upper Fowey Valley was often used during the day with a maximum count of 139 Oct 5th. Night roosting was noted in the au tumn and second winter period at Dozmary Pool , and the three reservoirs. JAdEM comments that the total numbers present is difficult to estimate and would need co-ordinated counts by at least four observers. Late in the af ternoon of Nov 15th he did manage to visit three of the sites and found that there were 5 0 + with more arriving at Siblyback, 200+ at Dozmary with more arriving and 2 0 0 + at Colliford. Other counts at Dozmary included 112 Nov 20th and 200 Dec 7th. On Sept 24th, just before dusk, a flock of c.600 birds assembled on and over Dozmary Pool . They divided into two groups with 100 remaining on Dozmary and 500 flew down over Colliford and over the dam. GJC. There is quite obviously very much to learn regarding movements over the Moor . Away from Bodmin Moor , numbers in au tumn were low. 300 passed Por thgwar ra Aug 15th and 100 per hour were moving west off Hannafore all day Oct 6th. Elsewhere there were 150 at Bodmin Aug 24th, 130 at Ruan Lanihorne Sept 9th and 150 at Blackrock Oct 7th. Following on from SCM's interesting comment in the 1984 Report regarding 'Scandinavian ' birds there were only two reports of ' L . f. fuscus' this year. There was one at Looe Jan 17th and one at Millbrook Jan 20th. Two small, slender, black-backed individuals at Pa r Jan 29th were probably t rue 'fuscus' and three at Hayle Jan 28th were assignable to 'L.f. fuscus/ intermedius ' . Other ' intermedius ' birds were 10 at St Ives Sept 19th with 1 there the next day. In the opinion of AHJH wintering adults ou tnumber first winters by at least 2:1 and 'L.f. intermedius ' forms about 5% of the wintering popula t ion.

HERRING GULL — Breeds. Resident. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 137/138) Maximum numbers noted during the year: Camel Est: 1750 Jan 9th. 700 Sept 20th. Par : 500 Jan 12th and Feb 6th. 1000+ Feb 10th. 2500 Feb 16th. Gannel Est: 1200 Jan 28th. Looe Est: 1000+ Feb 24th. Unusual: Truro : a pair raised three young in a nest built on top of the old chimney stack between Cornwall Farmers and Sharps Builders in Malpas Road . RL Lanyon, near Madron : a nest on a stone hedge contained two eggs May 24th and 28th. Although a bird was sitting the eventual outcome is unknown. MPS Hayle Est: a third winter bird showing characteristics of 'Scandinavian ' Herr ing Gull 'L .a . argenta tus ' Sept 17th. DSF.

GULLS — 3rd winter Scandinavian Herring Gull (centre), 'L.a. argentatus' with adult Herring Gull 'L.a. argenteus' (right) and Lesser Black-backed Gull 'L.f. graellsii'. Hayle Est., 17th Sept. 1985 Dave F lumm

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YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL — Rare vagrant.

Millbrook: an adult Sept 5th to 29th JAdEM et al was thought by the majority of observers to be of the race 'L .a . michahellis ' . St Johns Lake: a second winter bird Sept 8th. SCM. West Looe: a first winter Dec 26th. SCM.

ICELAND GULL — Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

After the excesses of 1984 a very average year, with only one record in the au tumn/second winter period. Mounts Bay: a first winter Jan 6th to 13th. The same or another flying south Feb 23rd, a first summer Mar 9th and another first winter Apr 20th. A second winter bird from 1984 remained until at least Jan 23rd. It was probably the bird at Marazion Feb 15th. Another second winter Apr 15th to 21st and an adult Apr 9th. GCH. SMC. A H J H . MPS. LPW. RMB. DSF. CCB. et al. On Dec 1st a first winter bird which was to cause a great deal of controversy was found by A H J H . I t was certainly an odd individual with darker than normal plumage and a dark heavy bill which appeared all-black at a distance. It was a large, heavy bird with a short pr imary projection, similar to Herring Gull. Although the primaries were paler than the rest of the wing MPS thought that the effect was more uniform than typical Iceland. The tail also appeared darker than typical Iceland. The bill was thought to approach Herring Gull in size and strength. Early in 1986 the bird ws relocated at Porthleven and afforded fairly close views when all of the above details were confirmed, al though the bill started to show a pale base by about February. Some observers thought that the bird was possibly a Kumliens Gull in first winter plumage or an Ice land/Herr ing Gull hybrid. However as the two latter species are allopatric, hybridisation seems highly unlikely. Even worse, there seems, at present to be no way of differentiating first winter Kumliens from first winter Iceland Gull. Stop press: DSF has communicated with BBRC on this one and through M.J . Rogers has received the following reply. 'At the A . G . M . the other day I showed your enclosures to P . J . Grant and K.E. Vinnicombe and both agreed that i t is indeed just a large Iceland or Ice land/Herr ing . PJG says incidentally that as yet there is no known way of identifiying non-adult Kumliens. Drift Res: a second winter Feb 10th LPW Par : a second winter Feb 21st PGA. DJC. and a first winter Feb 28th SMC. Hayle Est: a second winter Feb 24th DSF and a first summer Mar 28th JH. East Looe River: a first winter Feb 26th SCM. Swanpool: an adult Mar 11th BC.

GLAUCOUS GULL — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Another reasonable year with most in J a n / F e b . There were a few in spring but low numbers in au tumn and second winter. Mounts Bay: a first winter Jan 5th to Feb 17th. Another Feb 2nd to 17th. A second winter Jan 5th and Feb 3rd to 17th. CCB. DSF. LPW. et al. A first winter Nov 20th into 1986. LPW et al. Hayle Est: a first winter Jan 8th and a second winter Jan 9th LPW. DSF. Camel Est: a first winter Jan 27th to Feb 28th GJC. ML. SMC. REW et al. Loe Pool : a second winter Feb 2nd to Jul 17th. JSG. CB. RWS. The bird commuted regularly between Loe Pool and Porthleven during its unusally long stay. Drift Res: a first winter Feb 10th. LPW. Par : a first winter Feb 16th. PGA. Rosemullion Head: a first winter flew south Mar 20th. PMcC. BC. Newquay Harbour : an immature Mar 29th. JH. Not aged due to distance and poor weather condit ions. Gannel Est: one Apr 21st. EJC. DLT. Copperhouse: a second winter Apr 26th. LPW. Cleave C a m p , near Bude: one May 11th. FHCK.

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Swanpool: a second winter May 16th. BC. St Ives: a first winter Nov 10th. MO. Tregantle: a first winter Dec 12th. SCM. Hannafore : a first winter Dec 26th. SCM. Millbrook: a first winter Dec 31st. KP.

Larus hybrids

In addition to the bird mentioned under Iceland Gull, the following were reported during the year: Par : a second or third winter bird not seen at close range but the following points noted. Size slightly larger than Herring Gull. Mantle and coverts grey contrasting with brownish/grey upperwing and coverts. Underpar ts , notably upper breast, mottled quite heavily brownish. Outer primaries rather darker than rest of wing and dark mark at centre/ t ip of tail. Head very mott led. Bill large, like Glaucous, pale yellow with a broad l ine/spot towards the tip and a narrower pale spot at the t ip. A presumed Glaucous x Herring Gull hybrid. P H A . SJCx. AHJH. Par: a first winter type Glaucous x Herring Gull hybrid Jan 12th. Appeared very much like Glaucous but a little darker than normal with slightly coarser than usual markings, al though perhaps within the range of a true Glaucous. Black bill tip slightly less cleanly seperated from the flesh coloured base, than is normal . Extreme tip of bill pale. The only feature which made this bird identifiable as a hybrid was the very dark tail band, al though nowhere near as dark as Herring Gull. The contrast between the band and the remainder of the tail was noticeable but not striking. Brief views did not allow much in the way of structural comparison, but it did seem very much like Glaucous. DJC.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 137/138) Highest numbers were noted in the first winter period: Camel Est: 650 Jan 9th. 170 Jan 31st and 225 Feb 20th. Par : 120+ Jan 29th. 300+ Feb 10th. Hayle Est: 430 Feb 15th, 100+ Mar 4th. Ruan Lanihorne: 350+ Mar 3rd. 100+ at Dodman , Gannel Est and St Johns Lake all in late Jan . In the au tumn and second winter the highest counts included 103 at Hayle Est Sept 15th, 150 at Par Sept 27th and 100 at Camel Est Dec 4th. On Bodmin Moor the species is much scarcer than Lesser black-backed. Small numbers are often encountered at Crowdy Res which they visit in company with Herring Gulls for bathing and resting.

KITTIWAKE — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant .

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 138-140) There was one good January count and heavy passage during the November gales; St Ives: c. 10000 west Jan 22nd. DSF. Towan Head: 800 per hour west Apr 13th, 300 per hour west Apr 14th and 1000 west in 45 minutes Nov 5th. Rosemullion Head: 3600 west in 4 hours Nov 4th, 1650 in three hours Dec 1st. Cligga Head: c.3000 per hour west Nov 4th. RL. Gurnards Head: c.1500 per hour west Nov 16th. There were records of storm driven birds from most of the estuaries, but more unusual were; an adult flying south at Codda Tor , Bodmin Moor Nov 11th, was noted later at Colliford Res and a first winter bird was at Tamar Lake Nov 10th.

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SANDWICH TERN — Passage migrant.

The first for spring was one at Carlyon Bay Mar 19th. This was followed by one at Mounts Bay Mar 25th and another at Par on 26th. By 28th there were birds at four sites and by the end of the month the species was widespread. Early in April numbers were good, aided no doubt by the southerly gales. Hayle Est: 27 Apr 1st, 60 Apr 3rd and 20 May 2nd. St Austell /Mevagissey Bays: up to 60 Apr 1st in force 8/9 southerly gale. Pa r : 30 Apr 2nd, 15 Apr 4th and 15 May 5th. Gerrans Bay: 18 Apr 3rd. Sennen Cove: 2 0 + Apr 4th. A u t u m n passage was widely reported during Aug and Sept, and from six localities in Oct . The last was one at Lynher Est Oct 25th. Camel Est: 30 Aug 14th, 55 Sept 1st and 30 Sept 15th. Por thkidney Beach: 4 0 + Aug 17th. Pa r : a roost on the harbour wall contained 5 0 + Aug 18th, 56 on 19th and 46 on 22nd. Towan Head: 3 0 + Aug 31st, 105 Sept 3rd. Hayle Est: 45 Sept 1st and 51 Sept 19th. St Ives: 43 west Sept 1st, 40 west Sept 3rd and up to 30 on many dates to Sept 20th. Po r thcu rno : 4 0 + west between 1800 and 2000 hours Sept 11th. Clodgy Point , St Ives: 61 west between 1830 and 1905 hours Sept 19th. 30/40 also noted early in Sept at Cligga Head, Gurnards Head and Pendeen. Inland there were three at College Res Sept 20th and one at Colliford Sept 22nd. Unusual : Por th towan: a 's terna t e rn ' , thought to be this species was watched for about 10 minutes as it made its way down the coast on Jan 8th. The bird was some distance offshore but had uniformly pale upperpar ts and was plunge diving. CB. Camel Est: a flock of ten on Sept 14th were at tacked by a Peregrine. The falcon killed one of the birds but had great difficulty in carrying it off. DJ. Eastern Green, Penzance: 2 on the exceptionally late date of Nov 13th. LPW.

ROSEATE TERN — Scarce passage migrant.

No spring records and pitifully few in au tumn . St Ives: 2 adults Aug 5th CB, an adult and a juvenile Aug 11th DSF and two Sept 30th. EGG. GGG. Towan Head: an adult Aug 5th GJC, and up to 9 including some in full summer plumage Aug 14th. RH. JH. Por thkidney: three adults Aug 18th DSF. Por thgwarra : one west Aug 30th P H A . DSF. MPS.

COMMON TERN — Passage migrant.

The first for spring was one at Portwrinkle Apr 5th and 7 at St Ives the same day. Passage was noted at 19 sites with the highest concentration at Pa r . Par : 3 0 + May 2nd, 55 May 21st and 50 the next day. Mevagissey: 13 May 18th. Marazion: 12+ May 16th. Whitsand Bay: 12 May 25th. No more than 9 were reported at any other site. A u t u m n passage was widespread but the only good numbers were seen at sea watching points . None of the estuaries regularly held more than 4 or 5 but there were 19 at Hayle Aug 4th. Several birds were still present in October with the last being one on the Camel Est Oct 25th and one* at Loe Pool Nov 2nd. Max n o ' s . Towan Head: 66 west Aug 14th and 75 west Aug 31st. Por thkidney Beach: 70 Aug 17th. Por thgwarra : 30 east Aug 31st. Pendeen: 7 6 + west Aug 31st and 35 west Sept 1st.

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Sennen Cove: 70 Sept 2nd. St Ives: 60 Sept 1st and 6 0 + Sept 3rd. Inland there were 10 at Crowdy Aug 15th, 5 at Stithians Sept 12th and 8 flew south at Colliford Sept 29th.

A R C T I C TERN

In spring, all records came in just over a fortnight in May. There were 12 at Seaton on 5th, 8 at Hannafore on 5th, 7 at Marazion on 9th, 6 at St Ives on 9th and one at Par on 11th. There were also 2 here on 19th and 3 on 21st. Autumn records: Porthkidney: an adult Jul 12th and 18th. Towan Head: 3 Aug 2nd, 3 Aug 15th, 10 Aug 31st, 3 Sept 3rd, 3 Sept 5th, 3 Sept 14th and one Sept 16th and 2 Oct 4th. Bude: one Aug 2nd. St Ives: one Aug 5th, one Aug 11th, 73 west Sept 3rd, 9 Sept 15th, 2 Sept 17th and 2 Oct 9th. Par : 4 Aug 18th and one Aug 25th. Camel Est: 2 Aug 24th and one Oct 6th. Tamar Est: one Aug 25th. Sennen Cove: one Aug 30th. Pendeen: 38 Sept 3rd and 9 Sept 5th. St Johns Lake: one Sept 19th to 20th. Hannafore: 7 Oct 6th. Inland there were two resting on an island at Crowdy Res Jul 25th and a party of 10 flew west over Siblyback Sept 3rd.

Unusually late was one flying west at Hannafore Nov 9th. SCM.

" C o m m i c ' Terns Large numbers generally in late Aug and early Sept with two exceptional counts at St Ives and Hayle Est Aug 31st. Other reports included 3 at Marazion Mar 27th, 40 at Rame Head May 6th, 51 south at Rosemullion Head May 25th. Regular reports as follows. Towan Head: 4 0 + west Aug 14th, 17+ Aug 19th, 100+ Aug 31st and 8 0 + Sept 3rd. Porthkidney Beach: 83 Aug 18th and 50 the following day. St Ives: 478 west Aug 31st DSF, 114 Sept 1st, 181 Sept 3rd, 47 Sept 5th, 20 Sept 15th and 7 Oct 9th. Hayle Est: 587 flew south west over the Hide Aug 31st in the early morning when there was heavy rain and force 5 westerly winds. DSF . Pendeen: 45 Sept 1st, 83 Sept 3rd and 28 Sept 5th.

L ITTLE TER N — Uncommon passage migrant .

Spring records. Par : 5 Apr 25th and one Apr 29th. In May there were 12 on 2nd, one l O t h / l l t h , 3 on 19th, 5 on 21st and one to 23rd. Pendeen: one west May 5th. Falmouth: one May 13th. Autumn records: Whitsand Bay: one Jul 13th. Porthkidney Beach: 4 Aug 13th, 5 on 17th and one to 21st. Towan Head: 5+ Aug 14th, one Aug 15th and 2 Sept 9th. Par : 4 Aug 17th. St Johns Lake: 4 Aug 18th and one Aug 24th to 26th. Marazion: one Aug 21st. Camel Est: 2 Aug 24th, 10 Sept 12th and one Oct 6th. Tamar Est: 10 flew west Aug 31st. St Ives: 4 west Sept 1st.

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Pendeen: 4 west Sept 1st. Rumps Poin t : one Sept 3rd.

BLACK TERN — Uncommon passage migrant.

None in spring and other than the spell Aug 30th to Sept 1st when there was a good passage of terns generally, au tumn numbers were unexceptional. Hayle Est: an adult Jul 14th to 19th. 10 Aug 31st. Towan Head: one Aug 14th, 9 on 15th and 12 on 31st. 2 Sept 1st, 2 Sept 3rd and one Oct 9th. Por thgwarra : one Aug 18th. Stithians: 2 Aug 19th and one Sept 18th/19th. St Ives: 100+ during evening Aug 30th, 42 Aug 31st, 40 Sept 1st and 2 Sept 3rd. Pendeen: 25 west Aug 31st, 22 west Sept 1st and 2 Sept 5th. Colliford Res: 15 Aug 31st, 10 Sept 1st, 2 Sept 6th and one Oct 4th to 13th. Por thkidney Beach: 2 Sept 1st. Camel Est: singles Sept 1st, 5th and Oct 3rd. Upper Tamar Lake: singles Sept 1st and 15th. Long Rock Pool : 2 Sept 6th and one Sept 23rd. Loe Pool : 3 Oct 1st and one Oct 5th. Landulph Marsh: one Oct 5th.

GUILLEMOT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 140/141) Outside the breeding season very few records received. A few birds were noted feeding close inshore in bo th winter periods, al though less obvious than Razorbills. Unusual were single birds at Amble D a m , Camel Est Feb 24th and Oct 23rd and one on St Johns Lake /Mi l lb rook Oct 11th to Nov 17th. At St Ives Nov 5th a bird flew west showing large amounts of white in the wings.

RAZORBILL — Breeds. Resident, Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 142/143) Apar t from breeding records very few reports received. There were the usual reports of small numbers feeding close inshore in both winter periods, with the maximum being 50 at St Austell Bay Dec 14th-17th. Passage birds included 500 west at St Ives Jan 28th and 1000 west in 45 minutes at Towan Head Nov 5th.

LITTLE AUK — Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

A poor year with all records during the November gales. RMV Scillonian: one on the sea off Gwennap Head Nov 1st. KT. Mounts Bay: one Nov 3rd. MPS. St Ives: singles Nov 5th, 10th and 14th. DSF. A H J H . P H A . BP. Pendeen: one west Nov 10th. P H . Trevose Head: one west Nov 11th. SMC.

PUFFIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

For breeding records see Breeding Seabird Survey (pages 143/144) Por thgwarra : one Apr 17th, 30 in one hour May 5th, one May 16th, 4 May 26th and Jun 23rd. In July a total of 48 with max of 17 on 18th and singles Aug 1st and 4th and Sept 1st. All west. Towan Head: 3 west in thick fog May 21st. Rosemullion Head: 3 south May 25th. Pen Olver: one west May 30th. Rame Head: singles west Jun 9th, Aug 2nd and Oct 6th. St Ives: one west Sept 5th.

Auk sp.

Pendeen: c.200 flew west Sept 3rd were the first au tumn migrants . Most were Razorbills, but whether they were adults or first winter birds is not known. VRT. Gurnards Head: 1000 west in 2\ hours Oct 9th. 10000 per hour west between 1015 and 1200 hours Nov 16th. EGG. GGG. Towan Head: 4500+ in 4.5 hours Nov 5th. Cligga Head: c.5000 per hour west Nov 5th. RL.

FERAL ROCK DOVE — Breeds. Resident.

Very few records received but evidently widespread with flocks regularly augmented by new escapes. At Falmouth PMcC reports that most birds are domestic or racing pigeons. Only two flocks of ferals were located, one at Fa lmouth and the other at Penryn . Peak counts were 135 at Fa lmouth Jan 7th and 21 at Penryn Oct 18th. Trevose Head: noted throughout the year with max of 75 Oct 28th. Boscastle/Tintagel: 'good numbers ' in summer along the cliffs. Truro : 80 Nov 1st. Bradford, Bodmin Moor : a resident flock of 30/40 birds.

STOCK DOVE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Noted at 15 sites in the breeding season. In his 1981-5 breeding survey of the Fa lmouth area PMcC located the species in a total of 9 half kilometer squares. No real change in status was reported al though DE reported the species as scarcer in the Helston area and RL found them scarce in mid Cornwall with no sightings in J a n / M a r c h . There does appear to be some evidence that our local birds are not as sedentary as once believed. If no influx occurs in winter the species becomes very scarce or absent. This was noted by SCM in 1983 and regular watching on Bodmin Moor by JAdEM indicates that birds move out in au tumn . For instance, in the Upper Fowey Valley, 6 to 8 pairs bred but most had left the area by the second week in August . Few large flocks were reported, but 40 at Camel Est Nov 4th and 110+ at Pencarrow Woods , Bodmin were exceptional. Good numbers were also reported around the Cheshire H o m e at Marazion .

WOODPIGEON — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Very little breeding information received but no reason to suspect any changes. At Falmouth PMcC located the species in 161 half kilometer squares during his breeding survey 1981-5. JAdEM found good numbers in all the conifer plantat ions on Bodmin Moor and estimated 30 pairs breeding in the Upper Fowey Valley. No large numbers were reported in the first half of the year but there were some good-sized flocks in au tumn and second winter. Penlee P o i n t / R a m e Head: 110 Oct 28th, 450 on 29th and 700 Dec 22nd. Hayle Est: 750 flew east in two flocks Nov 15th and 150 the following day. Winnards Perch: 450 Nov 19th. Colan: two or three large flocks of up to 200 Nov 25th. RAF St Mawgan: 500+ Dec 31st.

COLLARED DOVE — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

Widely reported as a breeding bird in the county, but still scarce on Bodmin Moor . At Falmouth PMcC located the species in 62 half kilometer squares in his 1981-5 breeding survey.

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Spring migrants were reported from several localities: Bodmin Moor : a hint of migration reported by JAdEM between Mar 12th and Jun 2nd. Up to 4 birds were noted on a total of 8 days. All birds were flying north and would stop off at his Nature Observatory for an hour or two before resuming their journey. Mullion: Increase in early Apr with a flock of 20 in addit ion to the resident pairs. EGe. Lands End: VRT states that Collared Doves are not resident throughout the year. Breeding birds return March /Apr i l , so are the large numbers which occur in spring genuine migrants or returning from local sites to breed? The vast majority pass through the area very quickly and peak counts this year co-incided with the peak day for Turtle Doves. There were 30 Apr 23rd, 14 in off the sea Apr 26th, 20 + May 3rd, 35 May 19th and 75 May 27th. Trevose Head: migrants on four dates Apr 24th to May 17th with max 17 on last date . SMC. By far the largest flock in the second half of the year were 58 at Sheviock Oct 28th.

TURTLE DOVE — Occasionally breeds. Passage migrant.

The first for spring was one at Camborne Apr 22nd. The passage that followed was very light with only 69 birds reported at 23 sites. Most birds were seen at the Lizard and West Penwith. The majority moved through May 23rd to 28th and passage ceased with the last Jun 14th. Largest concentrat ions included 6 at Sennen May 26th with 10 there the next day, 8 at Por thgwarra May 28th and four flying north east at Lizard May 10th. Au tumn passage was poor with a total of only 30 birds at 16 sites reported. Apart from 5 at Sennen Sept 21st there were no reports of more than two together. The last was a single at Sennen Oct 10th.

CUCKOO — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

The first for spring was one calling at Blackrock Apr 16th. There were birds in three areas of Bodmin Moor and a single at Sennen by 18th and a widespread arrival after 21st. FHCK thought that they were more common around Bude but otherwise the consensus of opinion indicated a decrease in numbers . Not everyone was unhappy with position. BP comments 'One calling on May 12th was my only record for the year but knowing their perverted feelings towards breeding Reed Warblers I am quite satisfied with this total! Very few au tumn migrants were reported with the last, a single at Lizard Aug 28th. Brown phase birds were noted at Kilmar Tor Jul 2nd and in the Upper Fowey Valley Jul 29th to Aug 1st.

YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO — Very rare vagrant.

Pendeen: one picked up dead Oct 13th. LML. The fourth county mainland record — the previous having been in 1938, 1887 and 1830. There were rumours of another at Loe Pool , but no details received.

BARN OWL — Breeds. Resident.

Reports received from 80 areas with 18 pairs proved breeding. The general pattern of records was similar to previous years with the St Co lumb/S t Eval /St W e n n / F r a d d o n area being particularly good for the species. SMC proved breeding by 8 pairs, but unfortunately two sites were not occupied this year. One site had been regularly used for over 60 years and the other had been regularly used for over 40 years. Both sites were in isolated buildings with cob walls. Erosion of the walls by the elements had caused the nest sites to become exposed and the owls to forsake. A barn about a mile distant from the first site was used for the

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first t ime, but the fate of the second pair is unknown. In the Rame Head area there was a large increase in the number of reports with sightings in 8 different localities. Fewer sightings were reported from the Roseland peninsula this year with EMP. LSP. failing to prove breeding. The species is evidently sparsely distributed on Bodmin Moor with reports from only three sites. A pair raised three young near Colliford, a pair raised three young at Bolventor and there was a single day sighting at Goonzion Downs, St Neot May 26th. Equally poorly populated areas are the district to the west of the Fal and the West Penwith district. In the former area there was a record of two at Ponsanoo th in July. In the Penwith area there were records from Nanqu idno and Hellesveor, St Ives, but there is evidence that the species breeds in the low land between Marazion and St Er th . Two disturbing reports of birds being killed unnecessarily were submitted. At Marazion a bird was shot by youths and at Trematon , near Saltash two pairs bred successfully but three birds were later found dead after bait had been laid to kill rats.

LITTLE OWL — Breeds. Scarce resident.

A good year with a substantial increase in reports . Trematon: a pair reared at least two young in a hollow oak tree. Salter Creek, River Tamar : 3 including one with a little down in July. Zennor: one Jan 26th Tregellas, Grampound Road: one Feb 26th, but resident here for last eighteen months . Trehills Fa rm, Rame: one Mar 11th. Bude: a pair in March but both disappeared early in Apri l . Lands End: one Apr 4th and May 3rd. Port Quin: one Apr 23rd/24th and Jun 13th. Pentire Point : one late Apr to June . Loe Pool : one May 4th. Kynance Farm: one in an old cowshed May 12th. St Endellion: one May 13th. Minions: one several times in May, and suspected of breeding in a stone hedge. Tideford Cross: one May 17th. Maker Heights: one dead in road Jul 25th. Blackrock: one Aug 8th. Near Por thcothan: two in a small quarry Aug 28th. St John : two Aug 31st. Lizard village: two Sept 10th. One at a different site Oct 28th. Por th Mear: one flushed from derelict barn Oct 13th. Treganhawke: one Oct 13th. Rame Head: one Oct 22nd and 27th. Mullion: one Oct 24th. Morwenstow: one Nov 8th on . Trevose Head: one Nov 13th. Talskiddy, St Co lumb: one Nov 25th. Blackrock: up to two throughout the year but no proof of breeding. None were located at the old site at Porthilley, Camel Est .

TAWNY OWL — Breeds. Resident.

Many records received from all parts of the county with no change in status noted. GJC located 15+ pairs in the B o d m i n / D u n m e r e Valley area and thought that the species was grossly under-recorded in the woodland of the Camel valley. 4 or 5 pairs were noted in the Upper Fowey Valley JAdEM and RL found them widespread in all the wooded valleys of mid Cornwall . Daytime hooting was noted at Trelissick in every month from Nov 1984 to April

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1985, and at Penzance in May.

LONG-EARED OWL — Rare passage migrant and winter visitor.

St Eval Airfield: one Feb 17th-20th. SMC. EJC. Near Bodmin: three juveniles Jun 13th. GJC. The first reported instance of breeding in the county since 1934. 'At 2130 hours a bird was heard calling by a woodland track. As the observer walked towards the sound, two others started to call close by. The call was a plaintive drawn out ' heeoo ' . The first bird was watched at a range of 25 feet, initially with its back to the observer. It was noted to be stil very downy. It then turned and showed bright yel low/amber irises and two downy head tufts. The bird then flew off to join the other two. No nest was found but there was a strong smell of dead meat in the area. The three were seen a little later sitting in trees, calling continuously, and all showing the same colour irises. Blackbirds were noted mobbing another bird in a tree nearby but this bird was not seen. The juveniles were capable only of short flights and it was estimated that they were only a few days out of the nest. They were still calling at 2230 hours but could not be re-located 5 days la ter ' . I have always thought that breeding by Long-eared Owls in the coniferous woodland around Bodmin was a distinct possibility and have contended that the several birds I saw in that area whilst working night shifts, were all of local origin. SMC. Liskeard: one Oct 30th, sitting with 'ears ' erect beside the railway line between here and St Germans . A H J H .

SHORT-EARED OWL — Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Away from Bodmin Moor the species was very scarce in the first winter period. There were singles at Stithians and Trewey C o m m o n Jan 2nd and one at Landulph Marsh Mar 8th. On the Moor birds were noted in the Browngelly to Dozmary area from Jan 10th to Mar 24th. One or two were present in January but there were at least 5 and possibly 7 Feb 24th and up to 4 in March . A single was noted at King Arthurs Downs Feb 4th. A few passage birds were noted in April and May. There were singles at Stithians Apr 16th and 23rd, one at Newlyn East Downs Apr 26th, one flying west along the coast at Whitsand Bay May 2nd and one at Lizard Downs May 14th. The first for au tumn was one at Por thgwarra Oct 16th and later in the month there were singles at Bodmin, Trevose Head, Stithians and Nanquidno , but unlike many years there was no influx. The species remained scarce throughout November with-records from only seven areas, mainly coastal and moor land. In December, birds were again noted in the Browngelly to Dozmary area. Most reports were of singles but three were noted Dec 22nd. Elsewhere there were three at Trewey C o m m o n on 7th, two at St Eval Airfield on 7th and singles at Watergate on 1st, Harlyn Bay on 10th and Newlyn East Downs on 15th.

NIGHTJAR — Breeds. Scarce summer resident. Occasional passage migrant.

A significant improvement in the number of breeding records. West Penwith: noted at four sites; Site A: four, including two churring males Jun 19th. The males were noted on several evenings later in the month . < -Site B: close to site A but distinct from it. One early in June and again late in the mon th . Site C: one in summer, at what is thought to be a regular site. Site D: one flushed from road Aug 22nd. In view of the late date this may have been a migrant , but the species is not averse to sitting in the road on territory. Near Bodmin: one May 12th. A pair Jun 13th and a male Jul 19th, but despite other visits no more sightings. Near Lostwithiel: one pair raised two young and another , presumably unattached

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male was churring nearby. Bodmin Moor : two or three males churring Jun 12th to 18th, one male and a female or juvenile Aug 22nd. Lizard: a pair Jun 15th and two or three birds in area Jun 27th. There were single migrants at Upper Tamar Lake May 14th and Landulph Marsh Sept 18th.

SWIFT — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

Although birds arrived early on the east coast of the U.K. YOC, there were no records for Cornwall until Apr 20th when one was noted at Por thgwarra and 2 at Loe Pool . Small numbers were reported from several localities from Apr 22nd but once again the vast majority were late arriving. All peak numbers in spring were noted in the last ten days of May. The maximum included 200+ at Marazion on 21st, 22nd and 27th, 200 at Skewjack and 500 at Loe Pool on 27th. At Towan Head 185 were counted flying nor th in thick fog, in 1^ hours , May 21st. Breeding reports varied. At Wadebridge numbers were reported as down with only 3 nests at the old railway station compared with 15 in 1984. DJ. At Truro School there were only 2 pairs, which was less than in 1984. JEM. At Godrevy CCB located c.10 pairs nesting in two horizontal fissures in the cliff. Au tumn passage apparently commenced late in July. VRT described an 'en masse ' departure at this t ime, but what were 200 doing at Por thgwarra on Jul 2nd? 250 flew west at Boscarne on Jul 17th and 416 flew west here on 21st. Large numbers were on the move in mid-August . On 10th 300 were sheltering from strong westerly winds at Loe Pool . At Upper Tamar Res there were 350 on 11th, 200 on 12th and 250 on 15th. 500 per hour were flying west at Camel Est on 13th and 150 flew south east at Fowey Est on 15th. There were much lower gatherings to the end of the month , very few in September and none in October . Last was one at Por thgwarra Nov 1st. Unusual reports included 5 feeding offshore over Manx Shearwater flocks at Bude on Aug 4th and one bird still visiting a nest hole at Truro as late as Aug 29th. IK. RDP.

ALPINE SWIFT — Rare vagrant.

Crantock: one Aug 29th. AWGJ. There were rumours of other birds, but none was reported. This is the 9th county mainland record and the first since 1982. Accepted by BBRC.

KINGFISHER — Breeds. Scarce summer visitor. Winter visitor.

No reports of confirmed breeding were received. One suspects that this may have been due to a reduced populat ion resulting from the cold winter. There were very few breeding season reports and the only report of a pair came from Polbrock. In the first winter period and spring there were sightings at 25 localities, mainly of singles or two birds but there were 5 at Pon t Pill Mar 18th. Autumn migration was evident from the end of July and despite the apparent lack of breeding locally, passage was fairly pronounced with records of mainly singles and twos at a total of 40 localities. 3 were at Hayle Est Sept 6th and Camel Est Sept 20th.

BEE-EATER — Rare vagrant.

Porthgwarra: flocks of 15 and 12 were reported May 26th. There may have been two flocks or one flock which circled twice per BBRC. Accepted by BBRC. There were rumours of others but confirmation not received. The largest ever single occurrence in the county. If this was onlv one flock the county total now stands at 60 but most birds were involved in multiple arrivals.

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HOOPOE — Scarce passage migrant.

Torpoint : one in early Apri l . B. Jones per SCM. Polbathic : one Apr 5th. SCM. Lizard: one Apr 5th to 10th. EGe. CCB. Lands End: one Apr 6th. VRT. Degibna, Loe Pool : one Apr 9th. Mr & Mrs Ketley per EGe. Sennen: one Apr 24th. P H . R A F Por t rea th : one May 19th. Mr & Mrs Shepherd per EGe. St Austell: one May 19th to 22nd. BA. GRW. MW. EJC et al. Coads Green: one Oct 7th. R. Kettle.

WRYNECK — Scarce passage migrant.

Lands End: one Apr 20th to 26th. PH et al. Stithians. one Sept 9th. SCH. Por thgwarra : singles Sep 25th. DSF. JGT. LPW. and Oct 8th. TRC. Caerthill ian: one Sept 25th to 27th. BC. PMcC. Navax Point : one Oct 10th. CNT. Copperhouse: one Oct 20th. DSF. ML.

GREEN WOODPECKER — Breeds. Resident.

Apparent ly suffered some losses in the cold spell. RL failed to locate a single bird during J a n / F e b despite spending hours every day on south coast headlands. BP had only one bird at Marazion this year and considers it much less common than in the past . PMcC, who found the species about equal, population-wise, to the great spotted woodpecker in the years 1981-85 in the Fa lmouth area, reports a significant decrease after the cold weather. Very few breeding reports were received, al though odd pairs were widely scattered. GJC located a minimum of 6 pairs which raised 13 + young, between Bodmin and Polbrock . Outwith the breeding there were records from most parts of the county. At Boscarne on Jun 7th GJC witnessed a confrontat ion between a juvenile and two magpies. After a lot of noise and a good deal of fighting the woodpecker flew off none the worse for the encounter . At Perranwell on Nov 23rd one was clinging to the roof facia board on MPV's house. The bird was extracting something succulent from under the slates. A neighbour, 200 yards away has had holes hammered in her boarding!

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Breeds. Resident. Scare passage migrant.

The species is quite obviously the commonest and most widespread of the woodpeckers in Cornwall . There were reports from most parts of the county during the year and the breeding season was evidently successful. There was an increase in the number of reports in Sept /Oct and some undoubtedly referred to migrants . Most unusual were singles at Lands End Sept 7th and Lands End Sept 23rd to 26th. Other probable migrants were noted at Por thgwarra on several dates Sept 7th to Oct 10th, Trevail Sept 28th (2) and Oct 18th and Nanquidno Oct 16th and 29th.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Breeds. Scarce resident.

St Just in Roseland: one Apr 29th. LSP. EMP. Pencalenick: one May 11th. J D . St Johns Lake: one Jul 21st. MDR. Charlestown: one Sept 19th. RL. Breage: one Oct 14th and 15th. P .M. Alexander per EGe. Nr St Winnow: a male Dec 15th. TDR. Another dismal year.

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SHORT-TOED LARK — Rare vagrant.

Sennen: one Sept 24th to 26th. MPS. DSF. CCB. Reskajeage: one probably a first winter bird Nov 7th. DSF. The seventh and eighth county mainland records. Both accepted by BBRC.

WOODLARK — Occasionally breeds. Rare resident and passage migrant.

See Woodlark Survey report for breeding season records Rather more in au tumn than normally. Por thgwarra : one flew south Oct 14th. T R C , two flew south east out to sea and another was found later in the valley Oct 22nd. DSF. ML. , one or two flew south Oct 27th. AHJH. CCB. Lizard: 4 Nov 20th. BC.

SKYLARK — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period numbers were generally low. At Trevose Head 100 Jan 13th had increased to 500+ Feb 6th but decreased rapidly to 80 Mar 20th. At Kelsey Head there were 600 Feb 5th and 500 Feb 9th. Small, cold weather movements were noted at Bodmin where 80 flew west Jan 19th and 50 flew west Jan 21st. The only other triple figure flocks were 100 at Trobus Fa rm Jan 19th and 120 at Sandymouth Jan 31st. Spring passage was apparently non-existent. At Falmouth PMcC describes it as the 11th most widespread species, found in 138 x 1/2 km squares. On Bodmin Moor birds had returned to breeding territories by the first week of February and despite the cold weather mid month they continued to sing. The species appeared to have a good season especially at East Moor where the grass was slightly longer than on other commons . Local breeding birds dispersed during the last week of July and there was a 9 0 % decrease by the end of August . JAdEM. In Autumn despite the proliferation of other rarer larks, numbers of skylarks were surprisingly modera te . Trevose Head: 25 Aug 18th had increased to 70 Sept 18th, 100 Sept 26th, 250 Oct 11th, 350 Oct 16th, 400 Oct 24th and 600 Oct 28th. 100 remained Nov 11th but only 25 on 13th. Reskajeage: 150 Oct 11th increased to 200 by 15th and 500 by Nov 7th. Another 100 had arrived the next day and 750 were present Nov 12th. 500 remained Dec 11th. Elsewhere there were 350+ at Lands End Oct 5th, 150 at Rame Head Oct 13th, 100 at Por th Mear Oct 17th and 400 at Morvah Oct 27th. Away from Reskajeage there were no large flocks reported in the second winter period.

SHORE LARK — Rare vagrant.

Sennen: a female or immature in a mixed flock with skylarks and Lapland buntings Oct 1st. PH. The ninth county mainland record and the first since 1975.

SAND MARTIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

Spring birds were once again late in arriving. None were noted until 6 were seen at Par Mar 24th. Apar t from 3 at Crowdy Res on 27th and another at Par on 28th there were no other March records. Very few were noted throughout April a l though records were more widespread towards the end of the month . Most arrived in May. Spring max included 50 at Hayle Apr 5th, 79 at Colliford Apr 21st, 100 at Bude May 2nd and 100 at Marazion May 11th. Spring passage as a whole was approximately 8% down on 1984's all-time low. Breeding season reports were few. At Treskilling Clay Pit about 12 holes were in

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use. GRW. MW. DMY. and at Gunwalloe a 'few' pairs bred. EGe. At Ventongimps a quarry which held a small colony two years ago, was deserted this year. TMC. Autumn passage apparently commenced about Aug 20th and ended Oct 14th. Passage was almost non existent with records from only 11 localities. The largest concentrat ions were 50 at Colliford Aug 25th, 30 at Launcells Sept 5th, 20 at Par Sept 29th and Oct 10th, and 10 at Rame Head Oct 14th. All other reports concerned less than 10 birds. Unusual was a juvenile at Por thgwarra Aug 30th which had a very pale, creamy white lower back, rump and inner wing. DSF.

S W A L L O W — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrnat .

As with sand mart in , birds were very late arriving. None were reported in March but reports from Bude, Pads tow, Par and Copperhouse Apr 2nd. Birds were especially scarce until the last week of the month with the only flock of any significance being 175 at Tamar Lakes on 12th. Late in April there were 100 at Siblyback on 27th but with cool weather persisting into May the species remained scarce. At Long Rock there were 100 May 6th and 10th, at Duckpool several hundred moved north May 11th, at Trevose Head 75 flew north on 18th and at Pentewan there were 70 on 20th. Surprisingly, some observers considered the species more evident, than 1984, in the breeding season. RL described it as widespread in rural areas and G J C considered that there were more at Bodmin this year. Very few other breeding season reports were received and from personal observations and discussions with many farmers in mid and north Cornwall there has quite obviously been a dramatic decrease in the last two years, with breeding populat ions reduced by as much as 4 0 % overall. S M C . At Wheal Vor, Breage a pair again nested down a mineshaft but apparently raised only one brood, possibly due to the wet summer. DE. Autumn passage was pititful. The only triple figure counts were 100 at Drift Aug 23rd, 133 at Pads tow Oct 12th, 260 at Rame Head Oct 13th and 150 there the following day. The Par roost attracted very few. Most nights there were fewer than 100 birds. Exceptional were 1500 Sept 10th increasing to 1800 the following night. SMC. BTSC. The Long Rock roost was almost completely vacant. Only 25 were present Aug 31st but 300 at Virgin Hull , Marazion suggested that birds may have been roosting on the main marsh . BP. No news of the Bude Marshes roost . Several birds were still present throughout the county in November. In December there were birds at Newlyn on 1st, Torpoint on 6th, Redruth on 8th, Saltash and Caerthillian on 12th and Landrake on 26th.

H O U S E M A R T I N — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant .

Like the other hirundines, late arriving in spring. First was one at Dunmere March 23rd followed by one at Upper Tamar on 25th. No more were reported until Apr 4th and in fact, al though the species was widespread in April , numbers were exceptionally low. Even in May there was little movement until late in the month . Peak numbers included 100 at Siblyback May 7th, 200 flying north at Boscarne May 12th, 200 at Marazion and 500 at Loe Pool May 27th and 500 moving east at St Ives Jun 6th. Although JD described the species as much scarcer during the breeding season, no other general comments were received and unlike the other hirundines the species appeared to be up to strength in most areas, c.40 pairs were located at St Lawrences Hospital , Bodmin and 12 to 15 pairs at Caerhays Castle. Cliff nests were noted at Rumps Point - one pair, and at Crinnis where up to 35 birds were regular. At Rocky Valley, 4 or 5 birds were present May 11th but no report of nests here or at the nearby traditional site at Bossinney. There were several records of good sized flocks in au tumn, particularly in August -indicative perhaps of a very early departure of many birds. At this time there were 100 at Por th Res and Drift Res, with 150 at Upper Tamar Res and 200 at

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Charlestown. In September few reports were received, al though 500 were at Por thgwarra on 7th and 150 at Charlestown on 12th. Apar t from 180 flying east on 18th the species was again scarce in October . In November there were birds at Mullion on 12th, Tregantle on 17th and Swanpool on 29th with 3 at Penzance on 24th. Last was one at Wadebridge Dec 4th. Unusual was a bird at Stithians Jul 27th and Aug 10th with a considerable area of white on the primaries of the left wing. PWS. GHT. Equally unusual were several birds at St Germans Sept 27th which, having perched in birch trees, appeared to be feeding on insects taken from leaves. BLW.

RICHARDS PIPIT — Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn)

Singles unless stated otherwise: Por thgwarra /St Levan: 2 Sept 24th and one Sept 30th. DSF. PH. In October presumably the same bird was present on 10th, 12th and 15th. DSF. MPS. 4 arrived Oct 22nd and probably moved straight through because there were no more records until one was seen on 26th. DSF. ML. MPS et al. There is a report of 5 together, accompanied by a Tawny Pipit and a Citrine Wagtail (no description received of the last) on 27th. PH et al. 2 remained to 29th and one to Nov 3rd. MPS. CCB. Pendeen: Sept 28th. MPS. Gwithian: Sept 30th. DSF. Polzeath: Oct 4th. PSg. Reskajeage: Oct 20th. DSF. ML. Caerthillian: Oct 22nd. BC. Watergate Bay: Oct 26th. SMC. Portwrinkle: Oct 29th. SCM. Difficult to assess the number of birds involved at Por thgwarra , but possibly as many as 13. There is one previous record of 5 together, in 1966, 5 flew over Porthgwarra on Sept 24th. Undoubtedly the best year since 1972 when up to 21 birds were present in Cornwall .

TAWNY PIPIT — Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn)

Porthgwarra: One flew in off the sea on the unusual date Jul 25th. DSF. MPS. An adult Sept 25th. LPW. and one Oct 27th. AB. BES. JMB. MB. A poor year, when one considers the number of Richards Pipits recorded. This does, however, reflect the more easterly bias of the rarer species noted in Cornwall this au tumn and also illustrates the paucity of Mediterranean-based species.

TREE PIPIT — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

The first in spring was one at Kynance on Apr 7th, followed by one at Copperhouse on 19th. By the latter date , birds were already holding territory in the Upper Fowey Valley and at Redmoor . Spring passage generally, was light. Apar t from the Upper Fowey Valley, where there was a steady passage of biros, reaching a peak of 10 on May 15th and 16th, less than 20 birds were reported at the main migration watch points . There was no noticeable arrival, with the only multiple occurrences being 5 at Sennen Apr 23rd, 2 at Boscatle May 1st, 3 at Kynance May 4th and 3 disorientated birds flying nor th in thick fog at Towan Head May 21st. Breeding season reports were received for the regular sites as follows: Bodmin Moor: JAdEM tentatively estimates 100 pairs, which is surprisingly high, compared with the Bodmin Moor survey total of 51 pairs last year. Goss Moor: present in several areas. Retallack 3 pairs. The species was also noted at Redmoor , Helman Tor , St Blazey, Ladock and Ventongimps. At Kit Hill 6 males were holding territory in June and at Hustyn Downs 4 pairs were found in an area of recently felled t imber. (This also looks as though it might attract

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a Woodlark or two, it there are any left in the Camel valley). In the far west a male was seen holding territory at Croft Pascoe Jun 4th. A u t u m n passage apparent ly commenced with 6 at Colliford Aug 15th and involved about 66 birds at a total of 19 localities. Many moved through the county on Sep 7th with a less pronounced movement Sept 21st to 26th. The maximum at this time were 25 + between Por thgwarra and Sennen on Sept 7th and 4 at the Lizard Sept 21st. No more than 2 were recorded at any one t ime. In October there were singles at Portwrinkle on 1st, Cot Valley on 15th and 16th, and at Rame Head on 19th. At Por thgwarra there were 2 Oct 19th with one on 30th - the latest ever mainland record.

MEADOW PIPIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

In the first winter period numbers were very low with the maximum being 40 at Tregooze Jan 19th. No hard weather movements were noted. Spring passage was poorly reported. At Trevose Head passage birds were noted Mar 20th to Apr 24th with a maximum of 120 Mar 27th. At Maer Lake 15 Apr had increased to 30 by 14th. Two interesting breeding season comments were received. On Bodmin Moor JAdEM considered that the populat ion was much reduced. Some measure of this reduction could be gauged from the fact that in 1984 in the Upper Fowey Valley, whenever a Cuckoo landed on wires it would immediately attract 8 to 10 Meadow Pipits , but this year no more than 2 were attracted at any one t ime. In the Fa lmouth area PMcC finally encountered the species in SW 72 and 73 north of Helford. 3, plus or minus 2 pairs, were located on the edge of Stithians Res where presumably it has always been. A u t u m n passage apparent ly commenced Aug 22nd and ended Nov 13th. There were two very distinct peaks of migrat ion, the first occurring Sept 27th to 28th and the other Oct 8th to 18th. During the first movement the maximum were 250 at Rame Head, 120 at Colan and 100 at Por thgwarra on 27th with 400 at Lizard and 150 at Stepper Point on 28th. The October passage was heavier and more widespread. There were 150 at St Austell Bay on 8th, 100 at Nanqu idno and Cot on 12th, 100 at Morwenstowe and 230 at Upper Tamar Res on 13tn. 'Heavy ' passage was reported from Kynance on 13th. At Por thgwarra there were at least 300 on 12th and at Trevose Head 250 were present from 11th to 16th. Largest numbers were reported at Rame Head where 500 were noted on 12th, 350 flew east between 0730 and 1030 hours on 13th, 200 were noted on 14th with 300 on 18th. Later in October the only significant number was 200+ at Por thgwarra on 27th. Virtually no information was received for the second winter period.

ROCK PIPIT — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant.

Again very poorly reported. RL was unable to locate any Jan to Mar on the south coast and wonders if there was a hard weather movement . Unfortunately records from elsewhere are so sparse that no comment can be made . F rom a personal point of view, numbers at Trevose at this t ime seemed to be about normal with 6 seen together Feb 6th. SMC. Breeding season reports included 9 pairs between Trevose Head and Stepper Point , at least 4 pairs at Towan Head , 3 pairs between Porthleven and Loe Bar and 2 pairs in Boscastle Ha rbour . The largest number of birds reported was 20 at Trevalga Jul 30th. NH. 2 were reported at Stithians Res Nov 16th. EGe. and a leucistic bird was present at Coverack on Sept 2nd. It was all white except for brown wing coverts and tail. The bill and legs were pink. A R P .

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WATER PIPIT — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Camel Est: The 1984 bird noted until Jan 14th. One from Dec 4th into 1986. SMC. Mawgan Por th : One Jan 6th. SMC. Maraz ion /Long Rock: One Jan 10th.SMC. One Feb 18th. DSF. One in summer plumage Apr 7th and 8th. RL. J S C In au tumn there was one Oct 20th increasing to 2 Oct 23rd to 29th. From Nov 13th to 20th 6 were present but by 29th this had increased to 9 - easily the largest number recorded at one site in the county. In December there was a decrease to 6 by 1st and 5 on 9th. These 5 then stayed into 1986. CCB. DSF. LPW et al. Lostwithiel: One Jan 25th. GJC. An interesting record after my remarks in the 1984 Report . Sennen: One Dec 7th. CCB. Landulph: One Dec 27th into 1986. RMB.

RED-THROATED PIPIT — Rare vagrant.

Porthgwarra: One Oct 27th to 31st. DSF. SMC. A H J H . RS. et al. The second county mainland record - the first having been in 1983. Another was heard calling as it flew overhead on Oct 1st DSF and possibly the same bird was seen at Sennen the same day P H . Al though no descriptions have been received, and the bird will not be included in the county total , the occurrence is obviously genuine and should be recorded. Accepted by BBRC.

RED- THRO A TED PIPIT Dave F lumm

YELLOW WAGTAIL — Passage migrant. Last bred in 1965.

Spring passage commenced with 2 at Gunwalloe on Apr 5th. There were records from 11 localities involving a total of about 29 birds . The majority of records related to singles but there were 4 at Sennen Apr 21st and 2

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there Apr 26th. At Bude there were 2 Apr 28th and at Marazion where there had been only singles since Apr 28th, 2 were noted May 16th to 22nd and on the very late date of June 16th. At Por thgwarra 3 were seen May 4th and at nearby St Levan there were 2 May 26th. Another very late bird was a male at Hayle Est Jun 20th. A u t u m n passage commenced with one at Culdrose Aug 9th and ended with one at Gurnards Head Oct 9th. Records were received from 31 localities involving c.272 birds. The vast majority of birds moved through Sept 7th to 12th and Sept 21st to 29th. These two spells accounted for approximately 80% of the au tumn total . Max no ' s were: Por thgwarra : 1 5 - 1 + Sept 7th and 17 Sept 25th. Nr Kynance: 1 5 - 1 + Sept 7th and 25 Sept 21st. Stithians: 10 Sept 9th. Loe Bar: 39 Sept 10th. Portwrinkle: 12 west Sept 10th and 13 west Sept 12th. The Par roost was barely used this year with records only on Sept 10th when there were 6 and Sept 23rd when two were seen. In October , apar t from the Gurnards Head bird there were singles at Truro on 2nd, Portwrinkle on 6th and Marazion from 7th to 9th. There were two at Navax Point on 2nd and 3 at Camel Est on 4th.

BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL — Uncommon passage migrant.

'M.f. flava' - a sub-species from southern Fenno-Scandia and north central Europe . Marazion: 2 May 11th. Male May 22nd and 26th. BP. MPS. Gwithian: One Sept 29th. DSF.

GREY WAGTAIL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

Very little information was received for the first winter period and there was no evidence of spring migrat ion. Breeding was widely reported in mid and east Cornwall but once again very little information from the west. A u t u m n passage apparent ly commenced with one at Copperhouse Aug 28th. Records were very sparse with three small waves of migrants, Sept 6th to 10th, Sept 20th to 25th and Oct 13th to 14th. The only significant numbers were 8 at Copperhouse Sept 7th, 6 at Hayle Est the next day, 6 at Por thgwarra Sept 20th and 7 at the Lizard Sept 25th.

PIED WAGTAIL — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Two roosts were reported in the first winter period: At Copperhouse 165 were counted Jan 5th but only 63 Feb 6th. At R A F St Mawgan 15 were noted Feb 7th. Spring migrants were difficult to define but may have included 20 at Par Mar 12th and 28th, 30 at Gerrans and 60 at Hayle Mar 26th. One to 3 birds at Trevose Head Mar 27th to May 18th were certainly migrants. Breeding reports were few and at Fa lmouth PMcC describes the species as scarce. He found it in only 35 1/2 km squares with a density of about 0.4 pe r s /km squared. This is similar to the estimated density for the Lizard in 1982/3. In au tumn there were 70 at Davidstow Aug 19th, 60 at Pentewan Sept 10th and 200 at Marazion Sept 15th but elsewhere numbers were very low.

White Wagtail

Birds of the nominate race 'M.a. alba' were again very scarce in spring. A total of about 28 birds were noted at 7 sites. The first was a male at Upper Fowey Valley Apr 2nd and the last was one at Godrevy May 7th. The maximum were 6 at Sennen Apr 17th, 4 at Trevose Apr 19th and 8 at Marazion Apr 28th. The first in au tumn were 30 at Por thgwarra Sept 6th. There was an increase to 40 here the following day and there were 6 at Caerthillian the same day.

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Passage lasted until Oct 7th when one was seen at Por th Mear and rather more were seen than in 1984. The maximum reported included 30 at Navax Point on Sept 9th, 20 at Kynance Sept 10th and 16 at Sennen Sept 25th. Mixed flocks of Pied/Whites were reported from Sennen and Kynance.

WAXWING — Very rare winter visitor.

Bush, near Bude: One Dec 31st. TJD. GPS. The first record since 1981 and only the fourth in the last 10 years.

DIPPER — Breeds. Scarce resident (mostly in east Cornwall)

Successful breeding was reported from 13 sites, 9 in the Bodmin area, one at Rocky Valley, one at Rosenannon, one at St Blazey and one at Kennal Vale, Sti thians. FMC located six other nests in mid Cornwall - none of which was successful. Four of the nests held eggs but all failed to hatch, another was flooded and success at the last is unknown. Elsewhere the species was noted during the breeding season at Luxulyan, Restormel, Idless, Cadsonbury and Lowertown, Helston. Again, the ' spread ' of records is most encouraging. The Helston records are apparent ly the first from this area since 1959. Outside of the breeding season records were received from Innyfoot, River Tamar , Tresarret, near Pol ruan , Truro and Siblyback. Despite this apparently healthier picture, TJD reports no local sightings in the Bude area this year. Unusual were one at Par Inner Harbour on Aug 21st and one seen flying at rooftop level over Holmbush in November RL. The increase in records in recent years from the St Austell area must surely be a very welcome sign of de-pollution of the so-called white rivers of the china clay district. Ed.

WREN — Breeds. Abundant resident.

From the comments received the populat ion was obviously not affected by the severe weather in January and February. Described as ubiquitous by RL and as the most common species on farmland just outside Fa lmouth where the density was estimated by PMcC at 45 p r s / k m square. At Cusgarne JEM describes it as the most common species. At St Just in Roseland EMP and LSP counted 15 entering a nestbox roost on May 15th.

DUNNOCK — Breeds. Very common resident. Passage migrant.

As with Wren, the local populat ion seemed to have survived the freeze reasonably well. The only report of a decrease came from Bodmin where GJC thought the species less common than in 1984. Nonetheless he did locate 10 pairs between Bodmin and Polbrock during the breeding season. At Falmouth PMcC found it to be the seventh most numerous species with densities of about 10 p r s / k m square in town and about 20 p r s / k m square on farmland. On Bodmin Moor JAdEM found the species in good numbers , especially where there is gorse, but unlike Robin and Wren the species does not penet ra te far into conifer plantat ions. The only evidence of migrants were 24 at Trevose Head Sept 26th. At Rame Head an off white and sandy brown bird with white tail and primaries was noted Oct 11th to 27th. SCM. RS. VRT.

ROBIN — Breeds. Abundant resident. Passage migrant.

No change in status reported. At Falmouth , described as the second most numerous species by PMcC. At Quintrell Downs PJD found one bird in each of the greenhouses at the Garden

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Centre Jan 14th. There was a light passage through the county during September and October. There was an increase at Long Rock at this t ime. There were 30 at the Lizard Sept 10th, 30 at Trevail Sept 26th, 16 at Trevose Head Oct 16th and 20 at Camel Est Oct 17th.

NIGHTINGALE — Rare passage migrant.

Penlee Point : One Oct 14th SMC. (Small compensat ion for missing the Wilsons Warbler) .

There was no re-appearance at the 1984 possible breeding site.

BLACK REDSTART — Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A very puzzling year with more birds reported in January than for the whole of the au tumn migrat ion. In January there were reports from all the usual wintering stations with a total of c.47 birds present. Most reports involved single birds but there were two at Pentire Point , Polhawn Cove, Polzeath, Bude, Por thpean , Trenarren and St Ives. There were 3 at West Looe on 4th and 3 at Por th towan on 8th. By far the largest number were 6 at East Looe on 5th, but these may have included the East Looe birds because only one remained there on 12th. Incredibly, only four of the January birds remained into February, indicating that the majority either succumbed to the cold weather or moved to warmer climes. Only two 'new' birds appeared in February -singles at Millbrook and Porthleven. In March, wintering birds remained at Por thpean and Falmouth with a 'new' bird at Loe Poo l . Spring passage apparent ly commenced Mar 26th with singles at Rame Head and Polzeath. A total of 17 birds were noted until passage ceased Apr 26th. There were singles at 6 sites, 2 at Gribben Head Mar 28th, three singles at Trevose Head, two singles at Kynance and 2 at Sennen Apr 25th. First in au tumn was one at Bude Oct 12th. Passage was light and much more concentrated than in recent years. Of the 56 birds reported, 46 passed through the county between Oct 12th and Nov 3rd. Most reports were of singles but there were 2 at Cot , Sennen, Hayle, Boswednack, Por thgwarra and Rame Head . 3 were noted at Fa lmouth Oct 20th and 4 at Nanquidno on Oct 22nd. At Kynance there was one Oct 16th, 4 on 20th and 2 on 26th. At the Lizard there were two Oct 14th to 16th, 4 on 22nd and 9 on 24th. Later in November there were 2 at the Lizard on 20th and possibly one of these at St Keverne on 24th. December records were restricted to singles at Gerrans , Crinnis, Charlestown, West Looe, Godrevy and Loe Bar. The species was so scarce that MEL and CGL failed to locate a single bird at Boscastle during Oct to Dec for the first time in 10 years and at Falmouth BC could not find any in the second winter period for the first t ime since at least 1977.

REDSTART — Breeds on Bodmin Moor and possibly elsewhere in low numbers. Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant.

An improved spring passage commenced with a male near Bude Apr 9th and ended with a male at Trevose Head May 17th. A total of c.30 birds were noted with the lions share occurring at Sennen. Most arrived Apr 23rd to 27th, including 12 at Sennen on 23rd, which were apparently grounded by north easterly winds. These birds moved on quite quickly, only 6 remained on 25th and 3 on 26th. There were 2 at Por thgwarra Apr 24th and 5 at the Lizard on 26th. The first arrivals at breeding sites were 5 in the Upper Fowey Valley Apr 25th followed by 4 males at Cheesewring May 7th. JAdEM reports a spectacular increase in the number of breeding pairs on Bodmin Moor , estimating a total of 250 pairs. This compares with a total of 61 pairs located

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in 1984 during the census of breeding birds on the Moor . He also reports an increase in sightings generally, with 43 'bird days ' in July (1 in 1984), 13 'bird days ' in August (1 in 1984) and 5 'bird days ' in Sept. (0 in 1984). No breeding was reported away from the Moor . Au tumn passage apparently commenced with a very early bird at St Tudy Jul 15th, RP, al though this may have been a locally bred bird. Next came one at Idless Aug 28th. About 40 birds were recorded. There was a small movement involving 4 birds Sept 6th to 8th and a late passage of 6 birds Oct 12th to 13th, but 6 2 % of all au tumn birds were noted Sept 22nd to 29th. At this time there were singles at 8 sites, 2 at Por thgwarra , Trevail and Rumps Point , 3 at Cot Valley and 4 at Trevose Head and Nanquidno . The mid October records were all singles. Reports came from Gwithian, Nanquidno , Porthleven and Sennen on 12th and near Bude and Trevose Head on 13th.

WHINCHAT — Breeds on Bodmin Moor. Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant.

There was a general arrival in spring Apr 23rd to 30th with birds on the first date at Sennen, Nanquidno , St Just Airfield, Marazion and Menabilly. Of the 38 birds reported in spring, 29 were noted at this t ime. Most reports were of singles but there were 2 at Marazion and Black Head , 3 at St Just Airfield and Gwithian, 4 at Upper Tamar Res and up to 8 at Sennen. Passage ceased May 17th with a single at Trevose Head . The first arrivals at breeding sites were 5 at Colliford May 12th, indicating that either the earlier spring birds were not local breeding birds or that the local birds had been overlooked. Breeding season reports were very sparse with the maximum being 6 pairs a round Colliford and about 10 pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley. At the latter locality, birds started to disperse during the third week of July with many late broods believed to have been killed by the appalling weather. Main au tumn passage was simultaneous with that of Redstart , with 50 of the au tumns ' total of 113 birds moving through Sept 21st to 29th. There was a smaller movement Sept 6th to 10th and a number of records in October . Maximum no ' s : Caerthillian: 4 Sept 7th. Porthgwarra: 4 Sept 7th and 27th with lesser no ' s on many dates. Hayle Kimbro: 4 Sept 7th and 7 Sept 21st. Reskajeage: 4 Sept 8th and Sept 29th. Trevose: 5 Sept 26th. Rame Head: 4 Sept 27th. Lands End: 4 Oct 1st. The Lizard: 5 Oct 24th. There were singles in November at Stithians on 2nd and Upper Tamar Res on 10th.

STONECHAT — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant.

From the comments received it is very evident that , due to the freeze, there was a sizeable reduction in the populat ion of this species throughout the county. At Bude the species was scarce during the first winter period and seemingly fewer pairs breeeding. However there was a recovery towards the end of the year. TJD. FHCK. IK. On Bodmin Moor there was an exodus in January , due to the cold weather. Few were noted until the breeding season. DJC. JAdEM. On the North coast DFK found the species very scarce in the Polzeath area after the cold weather.

In mid Cornwall , where the species is normally well distributed inland, there were very few pairs during the breeding season. Presumably the population was decimated by the cold ' snap ' SMC. In the south east of the county there was a severe reduction resulting from the freeze. Casual sightings were much reduced and birds disappeared from many coastal sites. RS. At the Lizard the popula t ion was much reduced. PMcC reports that although he made no detailed count he would guess that only 10 to 20 pairs were present during the breeding season compared with 56 pairs in 1982 - itself a year that had commenced with a cold spell. In west Cornwall CCB echoed the remarks of others . At Por thgwarra where he normally expects to locate about 10 pairs , there were only 2 pairs this year. Certainly the species had a very rough ride early in the year, particularly inland, but also on both coasts, where the climate is milder. With the number of breeding season reports very low it is obvious that mortali ty was high. Few were reported in au tumn , but 8 at Holywell Bay Sept 13th and 14 at Trevose Head Sept 18th may have included some migrants .

SIBERIAN STONECHAT — Very rare vagrant.

Por thgwarra : A male showing characteristics of the Caspian and Black Sea race 'S.t. variegata' Oct 1st to 4th . JH. EGe. CCB. SMC. DSF. GCH. M.C. Carr et

An absolutely stunning bird which was undoutedly the bird of the au tumn for many observers (particularly those who missed the Wilsons Warbler!!) This is believed to be the first occurrence of this race of Stonechat in the U.K. Accepted by BBRC.

WHEATEAR — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

Apar t from singles at Crowdy Mar 8th and Por thgwarra Mar 12th, spring migration started rather late. No more were reported until Mar 22nd when one was at Cligga Head . Despite the slow arrival, the total number of birds noted in spring was above average and passage was the best since 1980. c.350 birds were reported with many arriving Mar 24th to 31st and heaviest passage Apr 23rd to 26th. Max no ' s included the following: Trevose Head: about 90 birds moved through Mar 27th to May 18th. Max of 18 Mar 27th, 40 Apr 24th and 14 May 4th. Sennen: 12 Apr 6th, 25 Apr 23rd and 2 0 + Apr 25th. Buttern Hill: 20 Apr 10th, 40 Apr 17th. St Just Airfield: 10 Apr 23rd, 21 Apr 26th. The Lizard: 19 May 4th. Kynance: 15 May 12th. Al though no counts were made at the larger sites on Bodmin Moor , JAdEM reports that numbers seemed to be normal . Elsewhere a pair reared two young at Bude Breakwater and a female was seen carrying food at Cligga Head on May 28th. A u t u m n passage commenced with birds in July at Loe Bar and Par on 29th and 5 at Bude on 30th. Passage generally was poor with a total au tumn count of c.335 birds reported. There was a noticeable increase in the number of birds Sept 5th to 8th, but otherwise there were no detectable influxes. Max no ' s : Crowdy/Davids tow: 30 Aug 10th. 20 Aug 19th. Por thgwarra : 12 Sept 2nd, 30 Sept 7th. Godrevy: 16 Sept 6th. Sennen: 50 Sept 6th. Small numbers continued to move through the county during October and there were three November records - singles at Kit Hill on 1st, Godrevy on 4th and Camel Est on 9th.

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GREENLAND WHEATEAR — (O.o. leucorrhoa) Scarce passage migrant.

Birds showing characteristics of this large, bright race were reported at : Kynance: 2 May 4th. Adult Aug 30th. EGe. BC. Upper Fowey Valley: In May, one on 6th, 4 on 7th, 2 on 8th, one to 11th, 3 on 12th and 13th with one to 19th. JAdEM. Pigeon Ogo: One May 12th. EGe. Por thgwarra . Singles Sept 24th into Oct and Oct 23rd to 27th. DSF et al. Rame Head: One Oct 13th. MDR. Reskajeage: One Oct 24th. DSF.

SIBERIAN THRUSH — Very rare vagrant.

Higher Treneddon, Lansallos: A male Jan 19th. Mrs B.L. Gilroy. This was a very tame bird which was viewed down to three feet. It arrived with other thrushes and fed on apples. Pendennis Point , Fa lmouth : A male Jan 23rd. Mr G. and Mrs B. Mills. This bird was watched for about 15 minutes whilst it preened itself in a buddleia bush. It was accompanying a large number of other thrushes, notably redwing and song thrushes. The first records for Cornwall of this handsome thrush.

GREY-CHEEKED THRUSH — Very rare vagrant.

Copperhouse: One Oct 26th to 28th. LPW. GCH. MPS. PWS. et al. The second record for mainland Cornwall - the previous bird being at Por thgwar ra in 1976. Accepted by BBRC.

RING OUZEL — Scarce passage migrant. Has bred.

A very good year, particularly in au tumn when records were regular from early September to early December. There were two very late reports . Gwithian: Male Mar 30th and Apr 18th. 2 males Apr 26th, 3 on 28th and 2 again 29th. One May 1st, 2 Oct 30th. Drift Res: Male Apr 20th. Sennen: One Apr 23rd. One Oct 16th. Lizard: One Apr 26th. 2 Oct 11th and 22nd. 3 Oct 24th with one to 27th. 6 Oct 30th and 2 Nov 20th. BC. Nanj iza l /Por thgwarra : One Sept 7th, 2 Sept 28th and 3 on 29th. Singles Oct 3rd, 7th, 13th, 16th and 28th. Zennor: One Sept 17th, 2 Sept 20th. Trevail: 2 Sept 25th. 1 Sept 28th. 2 Oct 20th. Cot Valley: Singles Sept 26th and Oct 27th. Rame H e a d / P o l h a w n : One Oct 13th, 3 Oct 16th, 4 Oct 19th, 5 on 20th, 4 on 27th and one Nov 1st to 3rd. Nanquidno: One Oct 14th. Trevose Hed: One Oct 17th. High Street, St Austell: 2 (one male) Oct 18th to Dec 9th. These birds arrived with redwing and were noted roosting with them. SJC. Copperhouse: 2 Oct 20th. Tresillian: One Oct 26th and 27th. Gurnards Head: One Oct 27th. Mullion: Male Nov 4th.

BLACKBIRD — Breeds. Abundant resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Appeared to survive the freeze in good no ' s in most areas, but at Marazion BP described a poor year with only one pair where there were 4 last year. At Fa lmouth , PMcC reports it as the four th most widespread species with density on farmland just outside the town of c.25 pa i r s / km square .

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There was little evidence of any movement during the cold weather with 20 at Helston on Jan 11th the largest flock reported. A u t u m n passage went almost un-noticed, which seems strange in an otherwise good au tumn for thrushes. The maximum reported were 20 at Por th Mear Oct 11th, 25 at Bodmin Oct 23rd, 40 at Bude Nov 3rd and 100 at Camel Est Dec 4th. Piebald birds were noted at T ru ro , near Camborne and Loe Pool .

FIELDFARE — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

One of the most widely affected species during the freeze, with thousands of birds, displaced from further nor th , moving into and through the county. Prior to this incursion, wintering flocks were small with 100 at Gerrans Jan 7th by far the largest. On Jan 17th thousands were noted flying west in the St Columb and Newquay areas. 500 were seen at Hayle, hundreds came in off the sea at Polurr ian and large numbers started to frequent gardens at Penzance. By the 18th the number of birds were fewer in most areas but thousands were noted flying west along the north coast at Newquay, in heavy snow. On 19th enormous numbers made landfall on the Lizard with a huge concentration a round Mullion, where every field was full of them. On 20th at least 3000 flew west at Lynher Est and there were hundreds everywhere on the Lizard. At St Just in Roseland there were uncountable numbers from then into February . SMC. DSF. CCB. MPS. EGe. EG. EMP. LSP et al. This was apparent ly the end of the massive influx but 300 were at Pentewan on 23rd and 2000 remained at Mullion until 30th. Towards the end of the mon th , flocks became less concentrated, but there were nonetheless 290 at Siblyback, 170 at Minions, 400 at Colliford and 200 at Goss Moor . The February cold spell had a much less dramatic effect, presumably because most birds had already been driven out of the UK. The largest flocks were 230 at Colliford, 250 at Morwenstowe and 200 at Morvah . There were more than usual, late in March and 20 at Draynes Apr 5th. A u t u m n passage commenced Oct 13th when there were singles at Por thgwarra and Morvah but 10 at Trevose Head . The species had been widely reported by 30th with max of 150 at Holmbush Oct 21st and 100 at Upper Fowey Valley on 30th. November /December records were the most numerous since 1981. The maximum were 300 at Retallack and 400 at Camel Est. Despite this the populat ion actually wintering, was abysmal, due, no doubt to the very mild weather.

SONG THRUSH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

There was a little evidence of any influx during the freeze, al though RL reports finding small groups associated with redwings along the south coast. Local populat ions appear to have suffered because numbers were assessed as 'down on 1984' on Bodmin Moor by JAdEM and ' poo r ' at Marazion by BP. At Fa lmouth , where PMcC casually described the species as common in 1984, the species is actually only the fifteenth most common . It occurs at a very low density of about 2 pa i r s /km square in town and farmland alike. A u t u m n passage was very light with most moving through Oct 17th to 28th. The maximum, by far, were 40 at Bude Nov 3rd.

REDWING — Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

At the beginning of the year flocks were small with exception of 500 at Mount Edgecumbe Jan 7th. Tens of thousands of birds moved into and through the county during the cold spell. At St Co lumb and Newquay, thousands were moving west in a steady stream all day on 17th and hundreds roosted at Tehidy. SMC. CNT. On 18th, hundreds were still passing at St Co lumb, but in the afternoon thousands were watched battling through heavy snow and biting winds on the north coast. 600

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were observed at Penzance the same day. CCB. On 19th, 5000 were watched flying west at Hayle, but many were grounded. At Mevagissey, large flocks were noted, whilst at Swanpool , 300 per hour were moving west at 1130 hrs . DSF. PMcC. The continuing freeze had a devasting effect on many birds. At Lelant birds were eating pota to which had been mashed and rolled into worm-like shapes. At Mevagissey children were trying to feed them with fish! At St Just in Roseland there were uncountable numbers everywhere and mortali ty was high. In the St Austell district hundreds were reported in u rban gardens and there was huge mortali ty of starving, torpid birds. MJJ. BA. EMP. LSP. RL et al. Later in the month and into February numbers dwindled considerably with 300 at St. Ives Jan 27th and 500 at Ladock Feb 2nd the only large concentrat ions. Unlike Fieldfare there was no second influx in mid February. Few were reported in March, although 50 at Roche on 31st were late. Last were 2 at Trevia Apr 20th. First for au tumn were 9 at Loe Pool Oct 5th with a single at Por thgwarra the next day. There was a widespread arrival from Oct 13th and the largest numbers occurring from 20th. 660 flew east at Reskajeage on 20th and 650 were noted at Hayle on 21st. At Bodmin 211 were counted on 21st, 445 flew west on 22nd and 216 flew west on 24th. At Holmbush 15000+ in small flocks flew northeast between 0830 and 1200 hours on 21st whilst a large scale southerly movement was noted at Polurrian on 22nd. November numbers were much lower, al though a flock at Wadebridge gradually increased to a peak of 2000 by Dec 2nd. Second winter numbers were low.

MISTLE THRUSH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Breeding populat ions were apparently reduced as a result of the cold weather. DFK reports the species as scarce where normally quite common at Trebetherick and PMcC reports a decrease at Fa lmouth . Despite this RL reports regular sightings in the St. Austell with 7 0 + bird days from January to June . Several reasonable sized flocks were noted early in au tumn with max. of 20 at Upper Fowey Valley Jul 16th, 23 at Siblyback Aug 20th and 27 at Ladock the same day. Autumn passage was light with two small waves through the county. The first occurred late in September and the second in mid October . Largest flocks were 5 at Trevail Sept 28th and 10 at Rame Head Oct 14th.

CETTIS WARBLER — Breeds. Scarce resident, passage migrant and winter visitor.

Maraz ion /Long Rock: Noted throughout the year with a maximum of 9 males singing May 13th, but another singing at nearby Ponsandane may have been a tenth. With 27 birds ringed during the year, BP speculates that possibly 100+ Cettis are now skulking in the area. Calstock: One male on several dates Mar 12th to Jun 2nd but 2 Apr 26th. RMB. SCM. A H J H . JMR. Harlyn Bay: One Mar 20th. SMC. Bude: At least one male throughout the year IK, but 2 Apr 28th and May 8th and definitely 3 Apr 29th. DSF. RS. SMC. et al. Kennack Sands: Male in song Aug 26th and 27th. A R P . Swanpool: Male Oct 7th to 24th. BC. Par : Female trapped and ringed Nov 22nd SMC and re-trapped Nov 28th FMC.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Uncommon passage migrant.

One at Trevose Head Apr 17th and one at Bude Apr 17th were the first in spring. There then followed a small but widespread passage up to the end of May. There were no notable arrivals, but a total of about

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50 birds were reported from 32 localities throughout the county. The only site which held more than two was Gwithian where there were 3 May 22nd. Breeding reports were few. A definite crash was noted by JAdEM on Bodmin Moor and very few were located on the mid Cornwall moors or Nor th Cornwall coast SMC. A u t u m n passage was, as always, virtually non existent with singles only at Por thgwarra Sept 18th and 19th, Penlee Point Sept 21st and Pendeen Sept 23rd.

SAVI'S WARBLER — Vagrant.

Par Beach Pool : A male 'reeling' briefly Apr 28th. SMC. The 8th county mainland record.

AQUATIC WARBLER — Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn) Marazion: One Aug 18th and 19th. TMM. St Levan: Juvenile Oct 5th. PAG. JMW. An extremely poor year.

T . M . Melling

SEDGE WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

Spring passage was poor with very few noted away from breeding areas. The first was one at Marazion Apr 16th and there were two at Bude on 17th. Most arrived after May 4th, but there were 4 at Sennen Apr 23rd and 4 at Bude Apr 29th. In May the max imum included 4 at West Pentire May 12th, 10 at Gwithian May 12th, 8 at St Enodoc May 16th and 9 at Drift May 20th.

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During the breeding season the species seemed scarce. In the Tamar Valley PSC identified only 5 territories between Calstock and Cargreen. Despite this, bo th EGe and CNT thought the species slightly more numerous . Autumn passage apparently commenced with 2 at Polbrock Aug 14th. A total of only 43 birds were reported. This appalling total included 12 at Pa r and 12 at Stithians. Most moved through in mid Sept but there were singles in October at Hayle Kimbro on 1st, Gwithian on 2nd, Landulph on 5th, Por thgwarra on 6th and Por th Mear on 7th.

REED WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

The first for spring was one at Marazion Apr 16th. The only birds away from breeding areas were singles at Stithians, Holywell Bay and Visicks Reedbed with 2 at Emblance Downs. During the breeding season there were birds at: Marazion (9 males singing), Loe Pool (12 pairs), Relubbus - Godolphin Bridge (10 males singing), St Er th , Swanpool (9 singing males), Po ldhu ( 'several ' males singing), Copperhouse (3 pairs), Gwithian (up to 3 pairs), Par (8 males singing), Tamar Est (20 territories identified between Calstock and Cargreen), Bolingey, Harlyn Bay and St Clement. In Au tumn , 2 at St John may have been early migrants or colonists at a new site. Passage was poor with very few at migration watch points . There were singles at Caerthillian, Por thgwarra , Lizard and Por th Mear . Last was a juvenile at Long Rock Oct 24th. This was BP's latest ever record.

ICTERINE WARBLER — Occasional passage migrant.

Lizard: One Sept 10th and 11th. BC. Trevail: One Sept 29th. GGG. EGG. The 19th and 20th county mainland records.

MELODIOUS WARBLER — Occasional passage migrant.

Porthgwarra: One Aug 4th and 5th. P H . VRT. and an adult Oct 7th to 10th. DSF et al. Nr. St Just: One Sept 29th and 30th. CCB. GCH. SCH. PLW. Trevail: One trapped and ringed Oct 5th. GGG. EGG. At Porthgwarra there was also a possible Sept 18th and a probable Sept 23rd. Several others were reported without conclusive detail.

DARTFORD WARBLER — Breeds. Scarce summer resident. Rare passage migrant.

Thankfully, the species seemed unaffected by the freeze. In the main breeding area at least 6 to 8 pairs were present during the breeding season. What effect the miserable summer had on breeding success, is not known, but juveniles were seen in or near several of the territories. There were records from at least four other sites in the same district. In au tumn, presumably birds dispersing from the main breeding area were noted at another 4 sites, bringing the years ' total to about 10. Elsewhere there were migrants at Por thgwarra Oct 23rd-Nov 1st. CCB. DSF. ML. ARP et al. and at the Lizard Oct 24th. EGe. JAJ. JEM.

SUBALPINE WARBLER — Very rare vagrant.

Porthgwarra: One Apr 20th. SJB. RF. The third county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

LESSER WHITETHROAT — Breeds. Scarce summer resident and passage migrant.

The trend of recent years continues for this former county rarity. Breeding was proved at Gwithian where a parent bird was observed carrying food on Jun 19th.

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DSF. Breeding may also have occurred at Goss Moor where a male was noted singing from Apr 28th to June 16th. S M C . The first in spring was a male at Camel Est Apr 27th S M C , followed by 3 at Gannel Est Apr 28th E G . Virtually all other reports were of single bird/single day sightings. These were at Bude Apr 29th, Har rowbar row May 2nd, Mawgan Por th May 4th, Rialton May 4th and 5th, Por thgwarra May 12th, Caerthillian May 14th to 17th, Rame Head May 18th, Pa r May 19th to 21st, Sennen May 19th, Tolvaddon May 21st, St Breward May 27th, Quintrell Downs May 31st and Landulph June 2nd. A u t u m n passage was poor , commencing with 3 at Skewjack Aug 17th DSF and ending with one at the Lizard Oct 22nd B C . Bewteen dates there were singles at Coverack Aug 22nd, Caerthillian Aug 26th and Tregantle Oct 20th. Other reports were not substantiated by description. Very unusual was one which was first noticed on Dec 5th in a Torpoint garden. The bird was still present in 1986. This is the first known instance of over-wintering by the species in Cornwall . Mrs J. Taylor . S C M .

W H I T E T H R O A T — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant .

Spring passage commenced with one at Tregantle Apr 15th. Small numbers arrived Apr 18th to 20th, with a larger influx Apr 21st to 26th. The species was widespread by May 10th. Most reports were of one to three birds, but there were larger numbers at Rame Head - 5 Apr 21st, Duckpool - 8 May 12th, Camel Est - 7 May 14th, Nare Head - 8 May 14th and Gribben Head - 9 May 18th. Most comments received were optimistic. SCM described spring passage at Rame Head as excellent, the best for several years, whilst at Bude, T J D reported good numbers from early May. At Stithians C N T described it as more common and in west Cornwall DSF reported a good spring passage and CCB states that it appears to have recovered from the ' c rash ' . These improvements may be very local because the species is very scarce away from the coast in mid Cornwall S M C and at Fa lmouth P M c C reports that it is only the 36th most widespread species. Even where the bird is found in this area the density is low, perhaps as few as 50 pairs now breed in an area of 150 km square. A u t u m n passage was exceptionally poor with a mere 44 birds reported. The majority moved through Aug 13th to 29th but there were a few singles in September. The maximum were 5 at Por thgwarra Aug 13th and 11 here Sept 2nd, 3 at Mevagissey Aug 28th and 6 at the Lizard Aug 29th. The last was a single at Po r th Mear Oct 11th.

G A R D E N W A R B L E R — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant .

Whilst many species seem to be in decline, there has been a definite upsurge in the number of breeding season records for this truly ' laid-back' songster. In spring there were three records in Apri l , with the first at Camel Est on 18th. There were many widespread records for May including 19 singing in the Boscarne-Hustyn area May 19th. G J C . On Bodmin Moor breeding numbers appeared to be good and at one stage in early June outnumbered Blackcap in all likely habi ta ts . J A d E M . At Fa lmouth P M c C reports that the species seemed especially common this year. He counted six singing males in spring and early summer in the upper parts of wooded valleys or in willow scrub on the edge of uplands . At Long Rock breeding was suspected by B P , who t rapped juveniles Jul 31st and Sept 11th - his first for the area. A u t u m n passage apparently commenced with one at Barripper Aug 15th. A total of 52 birds at 21 sites were reported with most moving through Sept 24th to 26th. The maximum were 4 at Tregantle Sept 22nd, 3 at the Lizard Sept 25th, 3 at Cot Sept 26th and 9 at Trevose Head the same day. Several birds were noted in October with a definite late movement Oct 21st to 26th involving 6 birds. The last was one at Godrevy Oct 26th.

y

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BLACKCAP — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. A few * winter'.

During the first winter period there were records from 22 localities. Most reports were of single birds but JBB and SB described the species as particularly common in the St Ives /Penzance/Hayle area. At Egloshayle, up to 3 were noted in J a n / F e b and at Fa lmouth there were up to 3 males and a female. Spring arrivals were noted from about Apr 9th when there was a male at St Just in Roseland. The total number of birds arriving was again low with max of 6 at Loe Pool Apr 20th, 11 at Boscarne Apr 27th and 5 at Duckpool May 11th. Very little information was received for the breeding season. MPV described it as well established at Flushing, whilst at Fa lmouth PMcC reports it as quite common in wooded districts - the 24th most widespread species. Au tumn passage apparently commenced with 2 at St Tudy Aug 13th and ended with one at Kynance Nov 19th. c.166 birds at 29 sites were reported. There was a light passage Sept 7th and another Sept 24th to 28th. Most birds moved through Oct 12th to 21st and there were fewer in November than of late. The maximum were 25 at Trevail Sept 25th, 11 at Cot Oct 14th with 8 there Oct 21st. In the second winter period the total of 20 wintering birds at 14 sites is thought to be the highest on record. Most reports were of singles but there were two at Wadebridge, Holmbush, Saltash, Boscastle, Torpoint and Copperhouse .

ARCTIC WARBLER — Very rare vagrant.

Near St Just: One Sept 30th to Oct 3rd. KA. W A . DSF. SR et al. Possibly present since Sept 29th. GCH. SCH. and may have been joined by a second Oct 2nd SR. The second county mainland record. The first was in 1984. One accepted by BBRC.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER — Scarce passage migrant (autumn).

Singles unless stated otherwise: Nanquidno: Sept 29th to Oct 3rd, another Oct 13th to 14th, another Oct 19th and a very late bird Dec 8th. SCH. GCH. P H . CCB. DJC. TRC. LPW et al. Kenidjack: Oct 4th to 7th. CCB. DJC. M A H et al. Cot Valley: Oct 12th to 16th. 2 Oct 18th increasing to at least 4 Oct 19th and 20th with one remaining to 26th. CCB. SMC. TRC. A R P . LW et al. Porthgwarra: Oct 12th and 18th. SMC. DJC. TRC. LPW. Sennen: Oct 15th. TRC. Trevail: Oct 15th. GGG. Trevose Head: Oct 16th. SMC. FMC. Porth Mear: Oct 17th. SMC. Polhawn, Rame Head: Oct 19th and 20th RB. RWG. VRT et al. The first record for Caradon , al though one was ringed at Eddystone on 28th Oct 1963. SCM. Another marvellous year. The UK total as a whole numbered hundreds .

BONELLPS WARBLER — Rare vagrant.

Sennen: One Sept 8th to 22nd. RA. P H . VRT. MPS. CCB. DSF. This bird was found in a small private garden and was difficult to see, but that can be no excuse for trespassing non-local birdwatchers who made a nuisance of themselves. The 3rd county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

WOOD WARBLER — Breeds. Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant.

Padstow: One May 15th to 17th. VJH. Swanpool: Male singing May 16th. BC. Nanquidno: One May 17th. CCB. Luckett: Male singing Jun 16th. VRT.

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Nr St Just : One Sept 29th to Oct 3rd. SCH. GCH. LPW et al. Nanquidno : One Oct 7th to 14th. MPS et al. Another poor year with only one breeding season record. Other reports received without descriptions.

CHIFFCHAFF — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. A few winter.

The mild second winter period of 1984 obviously tempted many more birds than normal to winter. In January records were received from 32 sites. Most reports were of singles during the period of 1st to 6th, after which it appears that many moved on with the worsening weather. There was an almost complete lack of reports from 7th to 12th, but then a small movement until 25th. Larger gatherings were 4 at Marazion Jan 1st, with 5 there on 16th, 4 at Talland Bay on 4th, 11 at Helston Sewage Works on 11th, 10 at Rospeath Sewage Works on 13th and 4 at Mawnan on 22nd. Very few birds were noted in February . Al though odd birds were reported singing early in March , these were probably birds which had wintered and the first migrant was almost certainly at Lizard Mar 9th. Spring passage numbers were again low with very few until the end of March. There were small influxes Mar 26th to Apr 2nd, Apr 5th to 9th and 14th to 24th. Largest numbers included 10 at Sennen Apr 5th increasing to 40 the next day, 12 at Cusgarne Apr 9th, 10 at Trenarren Apr 14th, 10 at Po l r idmouth on 15th, 20 at D o d m a n Apr 16th, 10 at St Anthony Head and 10 at Turnaware the same day, 20 at Gribben Head Apr 25th and a total of 27 at Trevose Head . There was no reason to suspect any change in breeding status despite the almost complete lack of records. At Fa lmouth PMcC calculates that it is the 14th most widespread species. A u t u m n passage apparent ly commenced with 3 at Bude Aug 24th. Passage was very light until the third week of September when several small concentrations were reported. The maximum were 12 at Jericho Valley on 22nd, 12 at Coverack on 24th and 12 at Trevose Head on 26th. Up to 10 were noted at a number of localities. Most of these birds disappeared quickly, with the next influx noted Oct 11th to 16th. This was a much smaller movement with the maximum being 8 near St Just on 16th. 10 were seen at Ladock and 13 at Por thgwarra on 21st, but elsewhere there were records of only one to three birds until passage ceased late in November. One would have thought that the continuing mild weather at the end of the year should have enticed high numbers to winter, but this was not apparently so. In December there were reports from 16 localities involving about 28 birds. Apar t from 4 at each of Helston, Copperhouse and Marazion, all records were of singles or two birds.

WILLOW WARBLER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant.

There was a general arrival Apr 4th to 10th when birds were noted at sites th roughout the county. The first date produced birds at Bude, Upper Fowey Valley and Sennen. There was a general arrival at Lizard Apr 15th and 16th but elsewhere the highest numbers were noted on 17th to 19th and 23 rd. The maximum were 25 at Sennen Apr 6th, 26 there on 17th and a massive 170 on 23rd PH et al. Elsewhere there were 19 at Trevose Head and 12 at Tamar Lake on 17th. During the breeding season, numbers appeared to be high. At Fa lmouth PMcC describes it as the 21st most widespread species, found in 70 x \ km squares. On Bodmin Moor JAdEM described it as 'widespread and numerous ' wherever there are a few trees and bushes, even in remote bogs over 1000 ' . He comments on the torrential overnight rain of June 22nd/23rd and wonders if this will have any effect on the 1986 popula t ion. At Predannack there were 33 singing males May 26th, 15 + pairs were located at Redmoor and 10 to 12 pairs at Blackrock. A u t u m n passage commenced with 3 at Camel Est Aug 13th and ended with one at Penlee Point Oct 26th. The total number of birds reported may provide an answer to JAdEM's pessimism. Incredibly, less than 30 birds were noted, with records from

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only 13 sites and more than two together only at Bude, were there 6 Aug 13th. Other October records included singles near St Just from 2nd to 5th, Nanqu idno on 5th and Por th Mear on 12th, with 2 at Por thgwarra on 21st. The St Just bird was in full song on Oct 3rd. SMC.

GOLDCREST — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Despite its diminutive size the species appeared to survive the arctic conditions without mishap. At Falmouth PMcC considered it the 18th most widespread species. Spring migrants included a total of 6 at Trevose Head Mar 20th to Apr 17th and 2 near Bude Apr 18th. Au tumn passage was extremely poor and apart from a few Sept 26th to 30th was almost exclusively confined to the second and third weeks of October . The maximum numbers reported were 24 at Camel Est Oct 17th, 20 at Penlee Point Oct 19th, 20 at Lizard Oct 22nd and 33 near St Just Oct 21st.

FIRECREST — Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

January records were few and far between with singles only at Tal land Bay, Camel Est, Wacker, Penlee Point and Loe Pool . None of these sites held birds in February but there were 'new' birds at Marazion and Swanpool with two at Copperhouse and Mawnan. One bird remained, at each of the two last named sites, into March . In spring there was one at Cot Apr 10th, 2 at T ru ro Apr 17th and one at Bude Apr 18th. Autumn passage commenced with singles at Penlee Poin t , Rame Head and Loe Pool Sept 21st and ended with one at Kynance Nov 19th. A meagre total of about 48 birds were involved. There were no noticeable influxes, a l though there was a reasonable scatter of one to 3 birds Oct 12th to 15th. The only gathering of note was 6 at Lizard Sept 25th. In December there were singles at Mil lbrook, Penber th , Nanqu idno , Copperhouse , Loe Pool and Tywardreath .

These were the lowest au tumn and second winter totals since 1981.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. One at Sennen Apr 21st was the first in spring. 3 at Nanqu idno Apr 23rd provided the only other April record. Passage was poor with less than 30 birds noted. The maximum by far were 6 at Gwithian May 24th. The species seemed scarce in the breeding season and at St Germans BLW failed to locate a single bird. Au tumn passage commenced with one at Moun t Joy Aug 10th and ceased on the very late date of Oct 27th when there was one at Cot Valley. 69 birds were noted at 25 localitites. Almost half of this total moved through Sept 6th to 14th. Pr ior to , and after this spell there was a very slow trickle of migrants through the county. The maximum were 5 at Rame Head Sept 6th, 4 at Lizard Sept 7th and 4 at Loe Pool Sept 9th. In October, in addit ion to the late bird at Cot there was another there on 5th, 2 at Nanquidno on 1st with one to 4th, one or two at Por thgwarra from 3rd to 10th, one at Falmouth on 1st, one at Kenidjack from 7th to 12th and one at Po r th Mear on 12th.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER — Scarce passage migrant (autumn)

Porthgwarra: Singles Sept 25th to 29th, Oct 5th and Oct 21st to 22nd. LPW. CCB. et al. Kenidjack: Singles Oct 5th MO and 28th to 29th. RT. SA. et al. Nanquidno: One Oct 10th and 11th. TRC. JH. et al. Porth Mear: one Oct 11th. SMC. ABR. Near St Just: One Oct 12th. DJC.

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Assuming all birds were different, this was a record total . The average annual total for the last ten years is less than 2. Since 1970 the only blank year was 1980.

PIED FLYCATCHER — Breeds. Scarce summer resident. Uncommon passage migrant.

The first for spring was a female at Loe Pool Apr 20th, followed by another at Tresillian the next day. By 23rd, 13 had arrived at Sennen, there was one at Skewjack, 2 at Nanquidno and 3 at Kynance. After this date there were very few new arrrivals - singles only being reported from Por thgwarra , Gribben Head, Sennen and St Levan. At the regular breeding site at Lanhydrock a pair were first noted Apr 26th. 2 males were singing May 6th and 3 on May 19th. 5 nest boxes were occupied and a total of 29 young fledged. In one box a pied flycatcher started to build a nest, but was ousted by a Blue Tit which completed the nest. Both species laid eggs in the nest, but on every visit a Blue Tit was found sitting on the eggs. It is not known which species fed the young but 4 Pied Flycatcher and 2 Blue Tit flew from the nest. FMC. Elsewhere the species bred at Boscarne, near Bodmin. 6 young were hatched in a nest box but only 2 flew. The lack of success is thought to be due to the poor weather and subsequent lack of food. GJC. At Goli tha Falls a male was noted singing May 7th to Jun 2nd. This has been a fairly regular site for singing males in recent years and the provision of a few nest boxes here might well prove rewarding. No visits were made to Boconnoc this year. A u t u m n passage commenced with one at Rame Head Aug 18th and ended with one at Lizard Oct 11th. Despite the poor numbers of many passerines this au tumn, this species fared rather better . Al though not nearly as numerous as in 1984, about 117 birds were reported from 27 localities. There was a small movement involving 15 birds Aug 25th to 30th with a maximum of 5 at Gwithian on 29th. Abou t 47 birds moved through Sept 6th to 13th with another 44 birds Sept 21st to 29th. The maximum were 6 at Rame Head Sept 6th, 5 near St Just Sept 12th but 6 there on 29th, 8 at Boscastle Sept 12th, 6 at Por thgwarra Sept 25th, 6 at Trevose Head the same day with 8 there on 26th and 6 at Nanquidno Sept 26th. A few of these late birds lingered into October and there were new birds at Gwithian and Kenidjack.

BEARDED TIT — Occasional passage migrant and winter visitor.

Tresillian: 5 including a male Oct 26th. 2 Oct 27th. SJC. Par Beach Poo l : Male oct 30th. AB . BEB. JMB. MB. 4 including a male Nov 15th to Dec 16th, but 5 Nov 17th. One Dec 27th and 28th. SMC. FMC. A H J H et al. M a r a z i o n / L o n g Rock: One Oct 30th. 6 Nov 6th to 11th and then odd singles to Dec 9th. BP . CCB. CB et al. The first records since 1982 of this irruptive species. This is the highest annual total since the big influx of 1972-3.

LONG-TAILED TIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

Seemed unaffected by the severe weather in January , with large flocks at this time including 30 at Dunmere Jan 19th and 14 at Mevagissey Jan 31st. No change in breeding status was reported and in late summer the species was again numerous with the largest flock being 53 at Polbrock Jul 31st. In au tumn there were larger than normal parties at many of the migration watch points suggesting a substantial influx. A few were noted late in September but most moved through Oct 11th to 20th. The maximum were 15 at Trevail oct 13th, 30 at Penlee Point Oct 19th, 10 in off the sea at Lizard Oct 20th and 10 in off the sea at Mullion Oct 31st.

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Large parties in the second winter period included 28 at Pencarrow Dec 18th and 20 at St Er th Dec 22nd.

M A R S H TIT — Breeds. Resident.

No change in status was reported. The species was noted in small numbers at all the regular sites. At Falmouth P M c C describes it as the 40th most widespread species, found in 16 x { km squares. At Loe Pool DE describes it as well distributed and at Tamar Lake F H C K saw it with reasonable frequency. Although not known for its migratory habits , there were a few records suggestive of dispersal. These included one at Trevail Sept 19th and 26th, one at Coverack Sept 24th and 2 at Rame Head Sept 27th.

W I L L O W TIT — Breeds. Scarce resident.

Upper Fowey Valley: 6 Jan 19th. 1 Feb 21st. During April it became apparent that there had been a populat ion ' c rash ' . No territorial song was heard and only three pairs located. Breeding success is not known, but low number were noted to the end of the year. J A d E M . P G A . A H J H et al . Redmoor: 4 Jan 31st. 3 pairs breeding season. S M C . G J C . Breney C o m m o n : Pair with half grown young Jun 1st. G H T . Tamar Lake: One Mar 31st. Up to 6 second winter period. F H C K . IK. Scadghill, Bude: Almost common in local woodlands . T J D . Retallack: Pr . Apr 16th. At least 6 including young Jun 20th. Several to end of year. SMC. BTSC. Tregoss Moor : Pr . Apr 28th. S M C . Other reports received, lacking in description.

C O A L TIT — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant .

No change in status reported, a l though M J J thought the species scarce at Lelant in the first winter period. At Fa lmouth P M c C considered it the 28th most widespread species with records in 46 x \ km squares. In au tumn a notable movement though the county occurred between Sept 18th when there were 2 near St Just and Nov 1st when 2 were at Kynance. Abou t 99 birds were reported, many of which were witnessed actually flying in off the sea. The maximum were 10 at Trevail Sept 28th, 11 at Po r th Mear Oct 12th, 6 near Bude Oct 13th, 7 at Nanquidno Oct 16th and 5 at Penlee Point Oct 20th. Lesser numbers were reported from Trevose Head , near St Just , Gwithian, Por thgwarra , Kenidjack, Kynance, East Pentire and Morvah .

BLUE TIT — Breeds. Abundan t resident. Passage migrant .

No change in status reported. Described by ML as the commonest visitor to his bird table at Wadebridge. BP reports a good breeding season with good numbers of young caught . P M c C considers it the fifth most widespread species in the Fa lmouth district with records in 255 x \ km squares. At Boscarne G J C located 23 pairs in 1.2km square. At Cusgarne 4 4 % of available nestboxes were occupied by this species. J E M . What may have been a large au tumn movement went virtually unnoticed. In September 20 were noted at Trevose Head , on 30th, where the norm is about 10. At Trevail 40 were noted on 26th. In October , 6 were at Por thmear , Zennor on 12th, 28 were at Trevose on 14th, several came in off the sea at East Pentire on 15th and there were 15 at Por thgwarra , 15 at Nanqu idno and 25 at Cot - all 16th.

G R E A T TIT — Breeds. C o m m o n resident. Passage migrant .

No change in status reported. BP describes a good breeding season at Marazion and RL describes it as widespread with many family parties seen. J A d E M noted the species in all suitable habitat on Bodmin Moor and at Fa lmouth P M c C considered it the 10th most widespread species, found in 140 x \ km squares. At Cusgarne the

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species occupied 2 6 % of available nest boxes and G J C located at least 13 pairs between Dunmere and Polbrock . As with Blue Tit , a movement in au tumn went largely unrecorded. In September there were 20 at Trevail Sept 26th and 8 at Trevose Head on 30th. In October 14 were at Trevose on 14th, several came in off the sea at East Pentire on 15th, and on 16th there were 20 at Por thgwarra and 6 at Cot Valley.

N U T H A T C H — Breeds. Resident.

Reported as scarce with recent decrease at Cusgarne by J E M but bred at St Just in Roseland for the first t ime since 1975 L S P . E M P . At Fa lmouth P M c C calculated that it was scarce, being the 39th most widespread species, with a populat ion similar to Great Spotted Woodpecker . The species is much more numerous in mid and east Cornwall , as illustrated by the 15+ pairs found by G J C between Boscarne and Polbrock in the Camel Valley. At Copperhouse DSF reported his first record here in two years when he saw one Jul 4th and 5th.

T R E E C R E E P E R — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant .

Well reported from most parts of the county throughout the year. On Bodmin Moor J A d E M considers that i t has been under recorded, because i t appears to be reasonably numerous in all suitable woodland including hawthorns growing along the tops of stone hedges. J E M describes i t as 'not u n c o m m o n at Cusgarne ' . Singles in au tumn at Po r th Mear Oct 7th, Lizard Oct 19th and Loe Pool Oct 17th may well have been migrants associated with the influx of tits.

G O L D E N O R I O L E — Scarce passage migrant .

Gwithian: Male May 23rd. P A R . Sennen: Female May 27th. P H A . SJCx. B R F . A return to normal after the excesses of 1984.

R E D - B A C K E D S H R I K E — Scarce passage migrant .

Por thgwarra : Juvenile Aug 5th V R T . Another Aug 30th to Sept 1st. M R A B . DSF. M P S . et al . Another Sept 28th to Oct 14th but 2 Oct 1st. C C B . DSF. JH et al . Rame Head: Juvenile Sept 5th. J A d E M , J G . G G . N E M . 5 in a year is exceptional. The average for the last 10 years has been one per year. The last Por thgwar ra bird was incredibly obliging, allowing many local birders their first good views of the species.

G R E A T G R E Y S H R I K E — Scarce passage migrant . Occasional winter visitor.

All singles: Tamar Lake: Feb 23rd. F H C K . Smallacombe Planta t ion: Mar 9th. R A . Launceston: Mar 25th. B T C .

Goss Moor : Apr 5th to 9th. E J C . S M C . BTSC et al .

W O O D C H A T S H R I K E — Vagrant . Trevose Head: A female Apr 9th. S M C . E J C . J H . L W . This is the earliest ever county mainland record. There have now been records in every year since 1979. Accepted by BBRC.

J A Y — Breeds. Resident. Occasional passage migrant .

No change in status reported. Described by RL as 'not uncommon in deep wood land ' . At Trendain , M P V has given up growing broad beans after the damage

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done by the species in 1983 and 1984. Birds still visit the garden however, harrassing many birds and causing much distress to Blackbirds. The maximum reported were 8 at Polbrock Oct 23rd.

MAGPIE — Breeds. Residnet. Passage migrant.

The only change in status came from Marazion where BP considered that there had been an increase. Migrants are rarely reported, but 18 at Trevose Head Sept 18th with 25 there on Oct 13th and 29 at Gwithian Sept 30th were probably passage birds.

JACKDAW — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant.

In the first winter period and spring the largest flocks were 400 at Roughtor Jan 4th and 210 at Trevose Head Mar 10th. Late in summer there were gatherings of 250 at Grampound Jul 8th and 400 at Hustyn Downs Aug 26th. In au tumn there was a significant influx in mid to late October . This incursion appears to have been poorly recognised by many birdwatchers, but large numbers were reported as follows; 350 at Gwithian Oct 11th, 250 at Blackrock Oct 14th, 200 at Rame Head Oct 22nd, 400 at Por thgwarra and 300 at Por thcurno the same day, 'huge flocks' at Lizard Oct 27th and 110 near Bude Nov 17th. At Ladock a huge corvid roost of 3000+ birds, consisted mainly of Jackdaws. JD. At Gwennap, PMcC reports that there is and has for some time been, a roost . A proper count has not been made , but 1470 were noted entering the roost from the west on 12th November 1984. (Roosts in Cornwall are very poorly documented) . Pied birds were noted during the year at Pe r ranpor th , West Pentire and T r u r o . J D . RL.

ROOK — Breeds. Resident.

The only flock of significance reported during the year were 200 going to roost at Polbathic Jan 9th. Rookeries were reported as follows: Launcells Church - 36 nests, Kirland, Bodmin -7 +, St Lawrence, Bodmin - 2 0 + , Gonvena, Wadebridge - 4 0 + , Perranwell - 65, Cargoll Farm, Newlyn East - 17, Lambe Creek, Malpas - 40, Cadgwith - 43 (same as 1976), Kennack Sands - 28 (30 in '76), Meres Valley, Mullion - 30, Mullion Vicarage - 2 ( 1 in 1982), Trenance, Mullion - 23 , Penhale , Mullion - 5 (a new site) and Chyvarloe, Loe Pool - 68. At Trevales there were no nests where there had been as many as 6 2 + in 1982, and 85 in 1976. At Falmouth PMcC has tabulated all his findings and found the following:

These findings are from the Fa lmouth area (SW 72 nor th of the Helford River SW 83, west of Falmouth) a total area of 148.2 km sq., including the reservoir.

CARRION CROW — Breeds. Resident.

Very few records received. Maximum numbers included 174 at Millbrook Rubbish Tip Feb 10th and 200 there

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1975/76 1981/85 29 Observed rookeries 44 46 Probable rookeries 44

830 Observed nest total 880 1020 Probable nest total 880

5.6prs/km sq. Observed density 5 .9prs /km sq. 6 .9prs /km sq. Probable density 5 .9prs /km sq.

29 Observed average rookery size 20 22 Probable average rookery size 20 14 Observed rookeries 14

J u n 13th, 171 at Camel Est Oct 9th and 220 at Loe Pool Dec 1st. GJC located at least 40 pairs between Bodmin and Polbrock during the breeding season. EMP and LSP recorded three instances of birds handing upside down from electricity cables.

RAVEN — Breeds. Resident.

No change in status reported. High numbers were reported as follows; 14 at Ladock Jan 13th, 14 at St Just in Roseland Jan 22nd and 3 0 + at Rushyford Gate, Bodmin Moor Mar 12th. At Newlyn East there were 15 May 12th, 50 May 26th and 22 Sept 8th. These large numbers at the last site were no doubt attracted by the nearby rubbish t ip . In the first half of the year RL reports that the species was sparsely distributed, but recorded 105 b i rd /day sightings nonetheless. Breeding appeared to be widespread and successful.

STARLING — Breeds. Resident, Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

One of the most obviously affected species at the time of the freeze, with thousands of displaced birds moving through. First evidence of birds 'on the move ' were 15000 flying west at Bude Jan 8th. On Jan 18th, hundreds flew west in snowstorms at St Co lumb and 5000 per hour were observed flying west at Fa lmouth at 1130 hours the same day. The following day thousands were watched battling their way west along the nor th coast at Newquay, whilst 2000+ were noted at Dunmere . 20000+ noted flying east at St Tudy Jan 28th may have been birds going to roost at Lower Moor Planta t ion , Roughtor where there was a roost of up to \ million birds in the first winter period. At Par , the roost peaked at 40000 Jan 22nd and a roost at Towan Head, Newquay, a l though not counted, held colossal numbers of birds. Spring migrants were scarce with a maximum of 108 at Trevose Head Apr 17th. Sparse breeding information received, but in the Fa lmouth area PMcC estimates that it is the 22nd most widespread species, but where it does occur the density is high. In the au tumn and second winter period large numbers were again seen flying towards the main roost at Roughtor . At Camel Est a maximum of 200000 were noted flying east in December and at Stannon Clay Pit 100000's were noted flying east Nov 17th. Also in November a flock of 100000's feeding in a field at Scadghill completely obliterated an area of 6 acres. At Marazion the roost held an estimated \ million birds and the Par roost attracted 50000 during December. Despite these high numbers none were noted at the Stithians roost this year. Aber ran t birds reported were one with pure white underparts at Porthleven, a leucistic bird at Marazion which was pale buff all over and another with pale wings but dark body. There was also an almost complete albino at Newlyn. It was pure white except for a dirty grey face, 3 or 4 black feathers in the wing and one small, black feather in the tail . R D P . JSG. LPW.

ROSE-COLOURED STARLING — Vagrant.

Lizard village: Juvenile Oct 28th to 30th. BC The 24th county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

HOUSE SPARROW — Breeds. Resident.

Very few reports received but the populat ion appears stable. The maximum reported included 30 + at Holmbush and a similar number at Trenarren during January . At Trevose Head an all cream bird was noted from Sept 25th into 1986 and at St Ives a bird with a white r u m p was noted Mar 30th. SMC. JEM.

Qfi

TREE SPARROW — Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

Nanquidno: 3 with Linnets Apr 5th. P H . Trevose Head: 2 flushed, flew north May 17th, SMC. Lizard: 2 or 3 with House Sparrows Jul 23rd. BC Trevail: One Sept 25th. EGe Mullion: One Oct 22nd. EGe Both the Trevose and Lizard birds were associating with House Sparrows - a reminder that flocks of the latter can be worth a second look.

RED-EYED VIREO — Very rare vagrant.

Por thgwarra : Two Oct 5th with one remaining to Oct 9th. P H A . SJCx. BRF et al. Near St Just : One Oct 11th and 12th. JGJ. SJJ. EGG. GGG. The third, fourth and fifth county mainland records - all since 1982. All accepted by BBRC.

RED-EYED VIREO Mike Frost

CHAFFINCH - Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In the first winter period there was a massive flock of 1000+ at Pencalenick, near Falmouth Jan 29th BC. Other large flocks included 150 at Dunmere Jan 19th, 100 at Trelissick Feb 7th and 200 at Pencalenick Feb 27th. Spring passage was almost non existent and very little breeding information was received. In au tumn, early migrants were reported only from Trevose Head where there was 25 Sept 26th. There was a sudden influx from Oct 12th when good numbers were recorded at several sites. 100 at Trevose Head on 12th increased to 550 on 13th with a rapid decrease thereafter. Near Bude there were 100 on 13th and at Rame Head 300 on 13th had increased to 440 by 14th. At Por thgwarra there were 115 on 12th and 390 on 16th with another big increase to 470 by 23rd. Elsewhere there were 220 at Reskajeage on 20th and 90 at Boscarne the same day. At Nanquidno there were 149 Oct 31st. There then followed something of a lull before another influx in mid to late November . The largest numbers of the au tumn were reported at this t ime, including 450 at St Eval on 18th, 500 at St Co lumb on 20th, 300 at Colan on 20th, 400 at Madron on 23rd and 500 at Polurr ian on 24th. Early in December there were 300 at Ki lkhampton on 5th and 200 at Empacombe on 8th. At Pencarrow 375 noted but the largest flock was noted at St Co lumb . 1000 + were noted at Ennisworgey Dec 14th and presumably the same mobile flock was noted at Treisaac on 28th. These remained into 1986. SMC.

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BRAMBLING year).

— Passage migrant. Winter visitors (No's fluctuate from year to

The dreadful au tumn passage of 1984 was vividly illustrated by the lack of first winter records this year. There was a female at Penzance Jan 18th and a male at Antony Feb 23rd. MPS. DRC. None were reported in spring but in au tumn and the second winter period the highest totals since 1980 were reported. A u t u m n passage commenced with one at Kenidjack Oct 7th. No more were reported until Oct 10th when 3 were seen at Por thgwarra , but after this date new arrivals were reported almost daily until Nov 24th, as a steady stream of migrants moved through the county. The total number of birds reported in this movement was c.300 at 36 localities. Most reports concerned less than 10 birds but there were larger gatherings as follows; 28 at Trevose Head Oct 13th, 15 at Por thgwarra Oct 22nd with 18 there on 23rd and another 12 on 26th. In November the largest flock was 25 at St Eval Airfield Nov 18th. In the second winter period there were reports from 15 localities involving c.243 birds, but the vast majority of birds were reported from mid Cornwall . There were 100 at Penmoun t Dec 20th GHT and 100 at Treisaac, St Columb on 31st SMC, with 10 at St Co lumb town and Rame Head . Elsewhere no more than 7 were reported at any site.

GREENFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Virtually no records received for the first winter period, although over 200 were ringed in a St Columb garden during Jan to March . 40 at St Austell Apr 19th may have been spring migrants . Singles at Trevose May 3rd and 17th certainly were. At Fa lmouth PMcC considers it to be the 22nd most widespread species, heavily concentrated a round the centres of popula t ion. Unlike many other finches this au tumn , there was no particularly notable influx. The maximum reported were 35 at Por thgwarra Oct 22nd and 20 at Marazion Nov 11th.

GOLDFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Few reports received for the first winter period. The maximum were 100 at Hayle throughout January and February and 30 at Pendower Feb 26th. These later birds may have been migrants because odd birds had already been noted at Trevose Head and there were 46 at Copperhouse early in March . Later in the month there was a flock of 120 at Halvana . Summer records were sparse but at Fa lmouth PMcC reports that it remains the 17th most widespread species. Post breeding flocks were noted from late August when there were 40 at Helston on 27th and 60 at Chapel Amble on 31st. Passage migrants were noted from about mid September when there were 40 at Godrevy on 15th and 75 at Moun t Joy on 18th. Average numbers were reported until mid October with max imum of 120 at Mullion Sept 23rd, 100 at Colliford Sept 22nd and 150 at Rame Head Oct 14th. Very little information was received for the second winter period.

SISKIN — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

A fantastic year for this charming finch. Several in the first winter period, consolidation of the breeding populat ion and an unprecedented influx in au tumn. In January there were reports of 1 to 10 birds at Hessenford, Smallacombe, Bodmin, Respryn, Boscarne and Lostwithiel. At Halvana there were 25 + Jan 10th but a large flock of 100+ Feb 23rd EG. At Trelissick number built up from 6 Feb 5th to 20 by 11th. At Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory up to 4 birds were noted daily from Jan 17th into March , increasing to 11 Mar 8th.

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The first juveniles were noted at B . M . N . O . May 6th JAdEM. Breeding probably occurred at Smallacombe and at Halvana . SCM heard the species at Wareham Wood, Tamar Valley on Jul 23rd and considers that breeding may also have taken place here. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 2 at Colliford Aug 25th, followed by a single there Sept 7th and a single at Bowithick Sept 9th with 10 at Sheviock the same day. About 50 birds were noted during the next three days with a maximum of 18 at Gannel Est and 10 more at Sheviock on Sept 12th. One could have been forgiven for thinking that au tumn passage was over, because there were no more reports until Sept 18th. There was then a limited movement and another lull until Sept 23rd. About 100 birds moved through Sept 23rd to Oct 1st, before another blank spell which ended on Oct 10th. There then followed an incredible influx which continued unabated until the end of the mon th . The total number of birds can only be pure speculation but a minimum of 1600 were reported during this three week period. Birds continued to move through the county throughout November and a total of c.385 were reported during the mon th . There were reports from a total of 70 localities during the au tumn with the maximum numbers as follows: Sheviock: regular Sept 9th to Nov 28th. Total of 140 birds with max 65 on last da te . Copperhouse: several dates Sept 12th to Oct 27th. Max 44 Sept 25th and 40 Oct 27th. Porthgwarra: regular Sept 24th to Nov 3rd. Almost daily from Oct 10th with a total 292 birds. Max. 39 Oct 22nd, 25 Oct 27th, 50 on 28th and 27 on 29th. Rame Head/Penlee Point : several dates Sept 27th to Nov 15th. Max 80 Oct 13th and 40 Oct 18th. Total c.196 birds. Near St Just: regular Oct 12th to Nov 7th with a total of c. 192 birds and max 27 Oct 12th, 36 on 14th, 50 on 18th and 30 on 19th. Many other localities had regular reports , but none with excessive numbers . Other large, single day figures were noted as follows: 34 at Tamar Est Oct 7th, 30 at Seaton Oct 15th, 50 at Kenidjack Oct 18th, 60 at Trendain from mid Oct into November, 6 0 + at Polbrock Oct 23rd, 44 at Boscarne Oct 26th, 50 at Boswednack Oct 27th, 30 at Marazion Nov 3rd, 22 at Tresillian Nov 3rd and 2 0 + at Pendarves during November. There were many reports of up to 20 birds. In December there were reports from 12 localities. Most reports were of one to ten birds at the usual wintering sites but larger flocks were reported as follows: 12 at Copperhouse on 3rd, 14 at Lamorran on 4th, 15 at Sheviock on 6th, 30 at Marazion on 14th, 24 at Biscovey on 16th, 70 at Boscarne on 18th, 60 at Lostwithiel on 26th and 19 at Wadebridge on 31st.

LINNET — Breeds. Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Early in the year large numbers were reported from Gannel Est where there was 100 Jan 2nd, 120 at Camel Est Feb 5th and a massive flock at Kelsey Head containing c.1500 to 1800 birds in mid February. Spring passage was more apparent than usual with many reports of up to 50 birds and larger flocks as follows. 100 at Nanquidno Apr 22nd and 80 at Trevose Head Apr 23rd. Breeding season records were few but at Fa lmouth PMcC describes it as the 24th most widespread species. Au tumn passage was again good. Early in au tumn there were 150 at Colliford Aug 15th, 50 at Culdrose the same day and 60 near Kynance on Aug 26th. A substantial movement took place Sept 6th to 12th when the maximum were 300 at Boswednack on 7th, 100 at Blackrock on 11th and 200 at Polurr ian on 12th. Late in September there were 150 at Cligga Head on 23rd, 350 at Colliford on 23rd and 400 at Gwithian on 29th. There was yet another good passage Oct 7th to 19th. 400 were noted at Trevose Head, 300 at each of Por th Mear and Rame Head , 200 at Upper Tamar Res and 150 at Cape Cornwall .

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In the second winter period the only significant numbers were 200 at Rame Head and 150 at Polbathic Dec 28th.

REDPOLL — Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

After a series of poor years, much higher numbers were evident this au tumn. In the first winter period the only records came from tradit ional breeding sites. At Halvana there were 3 Jan 10th and Feb 23rd and 1 or 2 in March . At Smallacombe there were 4 Mar 12th with similar numbers in April and May. Breeding was not proved at any site this year, but there were records from Smallacombe with birds visiting the nearby Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory in March and from June to the end of the year. JAdEM. DJC. EG. RS. et al. Elsewhere in the breeding season there was one at Hustyn Downs May 12th, a pair at Smiths Planta t ion Jun 5th but 10 pairs there Jun 13th and a pair at Hustyn Planta t ion Jul 7th. SMC. GJC. JAdEM. 2 at Colliford may have been breeding birds. Birds were also noted here on several dates from Aug 24th to Sept 7th with a maximum of 12 Aug 25th. JAdEM. P H A . BTC. RMB. A u t u m n passage was much more pronounced this year commencing with one at Crowdy Sept 25th and ending with one at Marazion Nov 13th. There were single bird/single day sightings at 5 localities, 2 near St Just Oct 16th, 2 at Tregantle Oct 20th, singles at Por thgwarra Oct 5th, 19th and 25th, singles at Crafthole Oct 21st and 31st, singles at Marazion Nov 3rd and 13th, 5 at Redmoor Sept 29th, 2 at Penlee Oct 19th with 8 there Oct 21st and 12 at Rame Head Oct 13th. One at Helston Dec 28th was the only second winter record. JSG. At Sheviock a surprisingly large and dark bird Oct 11th was suspected to be of the race A.f. rostrata, coloquially known as Greenland Redpoll . SCM.

CROSSBILL — Breeds in very low no's. Passage migrant. Scarce autumn and winter.

Breeding was proved in the county for the first t ime when MPF discovered a pair with two juveniles in Halvana Planta t ion on March 24th. Pr ior to this, birds had been regularly seen here with a max of 10 Feb 23rd. Subsequently birds were noted into October with a max of 3 0 + including juveniles on Jun 29th RMB et al. At nearby Smallacombe JAdEM located birds at two sites on Jan 15th. At the first site he found a nest and a male in song whilst at the second site he found 5 birds. During the year birds were noted on Apr 10th - 3, Jul 6th - 1, Jul 8th - 8 and Dec 9th -16. Birds, almost certainly from Smallacombe were noted regularly by JAdEM at Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory from Jan 15th to Jun 30th. Records were mainly of one to five adults but on May 6th to 18th a juvenile was present and on Jun 30th two juveniles were noted. At Smiths Plantat ion JAdEM watched 9 birds, at least 3 of which were juveniles, on Jun 20th. As if proof of breeding was not enough, the species followed up by invading the county in the largest numbers since 1972. There were two distinct influxes, the first in early July and the other at the same time as the Siskin invasion in October , strongly suggesting that the species may have irrupted together. St Co lumb: 24 in three flocks flew southeast Jul 2nd. 5 flew nor th Jul 4th. SMC. A D C . Retallack: 1 flew south Jul 3rd. SMC. Boscarne: 25 flew nor th Jul 6th. GJC. Copperhouse : 9 Jul 7th and 8th. DSF. Por thpean : 20 in two flocks flew east Jul 9th. GJC. Por thgwarra : 4 flew nor th Oct 12th and 7 flew east Oct 22nd. DSF. MLm. St Levan: 6 Oct 13th and 1 Oct 27th. DJC. BRF. Boswednack: 3 flew east Oct 14th. EGG. GGG. Near St Just : 9 Oct 19th. DJC.

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Rame Head: 3 flew south east Oct 19th. VRT. Nanquidno: One Oct 20th. GCH. SCH. LPW. Porthwrinkle: 7 in off the sea Oct 21st. SCM. Freathy: One Oct 27th. EG. Pendeen: 15 Oct 27th. MPS. Lamorna: One oct 28th. MPS. Sheviock: 12 Oct 28th. SCM. Crowdy: 2 Nov 3rd. AM J. IK. Croft Pascoe Pool : 26 Nov 22nd and 23rd. 20 flew nor th west Nov 24th. A R P . SCM comments that the Sheviock birds of Oct 28th were a round the village all morning feeding on poplar buds and sycamore keys, ignoring conifers. 2 of the birds, one a red male and the other a female, showed fairly obvious, buffish-white wing bars .

SCARLET ROSEFINCH — Very rare vagrant.

Trevail: Immature Oct 5th. EGG. The fourth county mainland record.

BULLFINCH — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Always under reported but no reason to suspect any decrease. Of the St Austell china clay district, SJC comments that the species had an exceptional year with numerous sightings of pairs during the breeding season and good numbers in au tumn. At Falmouth PMcC reports that his figures indicate that it is the 27th most widespread species there, but because he finds it one of the more difficult species to locate, i t might be considerably more common than that . Between Bodmin and Wadebridge, along the disused railway track, GJC located at least 30 pairs during the breeding season. In au tumn there was a sudden increase in mid to late October , suggestive of a minor incursion. 11 at Bodmin Oct 22nd had increased to 23 the following day. Also on 23rd there were 15+ at Boscarne, 20 at Polbrock and 12 at Por thgwarra . On 27th there were 10 in a quarry near Kynance and 4 at Rame Head . In December, on the Camel Est railway line, SJC watched 30 on Dec 23rd and 50 + on 31st feeding on privet berries.

HAWFINCH — Occasional

Near St Just: One Apr 18th. TMC. BKM. Nanquidno: One oct 17th. TRC. DJC. Near Bude: Female Oct 24th. IK. Now recorded in successive years after a 5 year gap .

NORTHERN PARULA WARBLER — Very rare vagrant.

Penlee Point : Female Oct 17th to 19th. RWG. SCM. RS. JH. A H J H . EG. et al. The second county mainland record of this nearctic gem. The previous bird was at St Ives on 26th November 1967. Accepted by BBRC.

WILSONS WARBLER — Exceptionally rare vagrant.

Rame Head: Male near the church Oct 13th. RS. REB. VRT. MDR. KP. RWG. EG. AECA. AHJH. SCM. The first record for Europe . Much to the chagrin of many local birders who arrived at the site before dawn on 14th the bird did not appear from its ' apparent roost . This was the first ' yank ' to appear in the area, in a remarkable spell. In addition to this and the preceding species, an Ovenbird was found dead at Plymouth and a C o m m o n Yellowthroat flirted with an observer at nearby Freathy. The observer, Keith Pellow, is thoroughly familiar with the species from living in Bermuda. Unfortunately the views afforded by this bird were insufficient to

103

convince such an erudite body as B .B .R .C . and therefore will not be submitted, but it was felt that the record should not be ' los t ' . The possibility that all three, or four, of these birds, hitched a lift on a sea vessel returning to P lymouth from the U .S .A . cannot be over-ruled. In fact, if this was the case, one wonders how many other ' yanks ' went un-noticed.

L A P L A N D BUNTING — Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor.

A record year on the county mainland with the flock of 20 + at Trevose Head Oct 28th the largest ever. December records in successive years. Por thgwarra : noted Sept 24th to Nov 3rd. Max 6 Oct 5th and 4 last date, c.12 birds involved. DSF. P H . A H J H . RA. Trevose Head: noted Sept 26th to Nov 13th. Max 6 Sept 26th, 2 0 + Oct 28th and 9 last date , c.30 birds involved. SMC. LW. ABR. JAdEM. SR. Sennen: noted Sept 26th to Oct 27th. Max 11 Oct 1st, 12 Oct 10th and 14 Oct 14th. c.33 birds involved. Also 2 Dec 29th. CCB. P H . DSF. RA. VRT. A H J H . Near Kynance: noted Sept 27th to Nov 13th. Max 4 Nov 11th. 5 birds involved. Also one Dec 8th. RA. BRF. EG. SJCx. A R P . Morvah: singles Sept 30th and Oct 5th. MPS. Por th Mear: Male Oct 12th AM J. IK. Rame Head: One flew east Oct 13th. RS. Kelsey Head: One Oct 13th. 2 Oct 15th and 3 Nov 3rd. JH. SR. Reskajeage Downs: Noted Oct 14th to Nov 12th. Max 8 Oct 14th. 10 Oct 17th. 14 Nov 7th and 8th. c.26 birds involved. Also 2 Nov 3rd and one to Dec 11th. DSF. CCB. et al. Penlee Point : One Oct 18th. EG. JH. Portwrinkle: One Oct 29th. SCM. Near St Just : 2 Oct 31st. BT. Lizard Downs: One flew over Nov 1st. 2 Nov 7th and 3 Nov 20th. BC. ARP. Navax Point : One Nov 15th. CNT.

SNOW BUNTING — Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor.

Another good year with the first January record since 1976. Nor thcot t Mou th : 4 Jan 31st. IK. Kelsey Head: 10+ Feb 5th. 12 Feb 9th. These birds were in a Linnet flock. JH. SMC. EJC. et al. 2 Oct 15th and 4 Oct 19th. JH. Trevose Head: One Sept 26th. 4 Nov 10th and 2 Nov 11th. SMC. RA. Por thgwarra : 2 Oct 4th . One Oct 11th. EGG. GGG. A R P . Navax Point : Singles Oct 7th to 13th, Oct 22nd to 31st, Nov 8th to 13th and Dec 16th. CNT. St Ives: One Oct 9th. DSF. Sennen: One Oct 12th. P H . Stithians: One Oct 12th and 17th. J D . P H H . Reskajeage: 2 Oct 14th. 28 Nov 12th. 17 Nov 13th. 10 Nov 19th. 18 Nov 28th and 7 Dec 11th. PAR. DSF. F H H . CNT. Nanquidno : One Oct 14th. TRC. Lizard: One or 2 Oct 19th. 2 Nov 20th. PRW. BC. Lands End . One Oct 30th. CCB. Rumps Point : 6 Oct 31st. RW. Near Kynance: One Nov 10th. 3 Nov 11th. A R P . Par : One Nov 22nd. SMC. FMC.

YELLOWHAMMER — Breeds. Resident. Scarce passage migrant.

At Marazion, noted in normal numbers by BP and a slight improvement in numbers detected at St Just in Roseland by EMP and LSP. At Bissoe, described as scarce by JEM and continues to be scarce at the Lizard EGe. At Por tscatho GCJ failed to locate the species and at Fa lmouth PMcC describes it as the 20th most widespread species, but nearly always at low density.

104

Rather larger flocks were reported this year: In the first winter period there were 25 at St Allen Jan 5th, 25 near Bude Jan 31st, 30 at Lantivet Bay Feb 1st and 23 at Nor thwood, Bodmin Moor Feb 12th. In spring, a single migrant flew nor th at Trevose Apr 17th, whilst 28 at Rame Head Apr 29th and 19 there May 19th may have included migrants . Good numbers were reported in au tumn and the second winter period. At Trevose there were single migrants Sept 30th and Oct 11th but 3 Oct 16th. A flock at Po r th Mear numbered 10 Oct 7th but had increased to 40 Oct 11th, with 30 remaining to the end of the mon th . There were 30 at Tregantle Oct 20th, 15 at St Just Airfield Oct 27th and 16 at Bodmin Nov 23rd. At St Co lumb, the mobile Chaffinch flock already documented, at tracted large numbers of other species, including 50 of this species Dec 14th, increasing to 100 Dec 28th - the largest gathering since 1980.

CIRL BUNTING — Breeds. Rare resident.

Old Town Cove, Camel Est: Male singing Feb 27th. SMC. Lizard: Male Apr 16th. PMcC. St John : Male Apr 21st. The late BGE per SCM. Flushing/Mylor: Bred. Pr seen carrying caterpillars to nest in bramble Aug 26th. Another male in adjoining field. J D . GHT. Porth Mear: Male Oct 7th. Up to 3, including male , in yellowhammer flock, Oct 11th to 17th with male remaining to 28th. SMC. RS. JH. et al. Another disastrous year, al though some reports were received with inadequate detail.

ORTOLAN BUNTING — Rare passage migrant.

Sennen: Adult Oct 2nd. 2 Oct 4th, increasing to 4 on 5th, 5 on 12th but only one on 13th. DSF. PH. VRT. Other buntings purportedly seen in the same field included a Little on Oct 1st and a male Rustic on Oct 13th (the same day as one turned up on Scilly), but unfortunately no descriptive details received. At least one Ortolan is known to have occurred at Trevose, late in October but again no detail received.

REED BUNTING — Breeds. Resident, passage migrant. Winter visitor.

Reported as having had a good breeding season at Marazion by BP and at Colliford where JAdEM located several pairs a round the edge of the lake, but unfortunately the rising water level pushed many off before breeding was successfully completed. Large flocks in the first winter period included 50 at Rosenannon Jan 7th and 70 at Croft Pascoe Feb 8th. At Copperhouse, 11 migrants were noted Feb 23rd to 27th. In au tumn there was an early gathering of 30 at Colliford Jul 29th - birds displaced by the rising water perhaps? Single migrants were reported from Rame Head on Sept 22nd, Oct 20th and Nov 2nd, at Trevose Sept 25th and Oct 16th but 3 Oct 28th and 2 Nov 13th. At Por thgwarra one flew east Oct 10th and at Po r th Mear the yel lowhammer flock attracted 4 Oct 11th and 2 Oct 17th. No large flocks were reported in the second winter period.

BLACK-HEADED BUNTING — Very rare vagrant.

Porth Mear: Male Oct 7th to 11th. A C H . BW. SMC. ABR. The second county mainland record. The first was a female at Por thgwarra on 19th Sept 1976. Accepted by BBRC.

105

CORN BUNTING — Breeds. Resident.

The Nor th coast breeding populat ion appears to be stable with reports from Pen t i re /The Rumps , Polzeath, Stepper Point , Trevone, Trevose, Harlyn Bay, St Eval Airfield, Po r th Mear , Mawgan Por th , Watergate Bay, West Pentire, Newlyn East , R A F Por t rea th , Reskajeage, and Gwithian. On the Lands End peninsula, birds were noted from March 22nd to Oct 15th with c.15 pairs breeding. On the Lizard peninsula there was a single report of 2 males in song near Kynance May 30th and a pair Jul 11th. Unusual reports included one flying west at St Columb in snow Jan 18th and 6 roosting at Retallack Jan 30th. SMC. A male was singing at Sheviock Apr 9th SCM and another was at Nanqu idno Apr 23rd DSF. A single migrant was noted at Tregantle Oct 20th A H J H . Max no ' s reported: 26 at Trevone Aug 22nd, 23 at Gwithian Sept 27th, 36 at Reskajeage Sept 29th and 35 at Trevose Head Oct 18th.

'EXOTICA'

M A N E D GOOSE (Australian W o o d Duck)

One at Hayle Feb 3rd into 1986. DSF. GCH. et al.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE One at Walmsley Sanctuary Jan 3rd. GJC.

BAR-HEADED GOOSE

One Camel Est Sept 6th and 23rd. ML.

COCKATIEL

One " N y m p h u s hol landicus" a t Camborne Oct 27th. CNT.

MACAW A red and green bird flew in from the south west at Navax Oct 13th. CNT.

BUDGERIGAR.

A yellow bird flew out to sea at Trevose Head Feb 24th. Heavy seas were running and the bird was flying into a strong headwind. As it passed over the breaking waves it became caught up in air turbulence causing it to lose height and eventually was sucked down into the water, where I presumed it drowned. SMC. A D C .

BLACK-FACED BUNTING. A male at Hayle Aug 4th. G. Maxwell.

106

BRITISH BIRDS RARITIES COMMITTEE DECISIONS.

Madeiran Petrel Night Heron Little Egret Ring-necked Duck Lesser Golden Plover Bairds Sandpiper Long-billed Dowitcher Ring-billed Gull

Short-toed Lark Subalpine Warbler Greenish Warbler Arctic Warbler Rose-coloured Starling Little Bunting

1984

St Ives Skewiack Tresillian Upper Tamar Res Davidstow Davidstow Davidstow Swanpool

Truro River Drift Near Sennen Por thgwarra Por thgwarra Nanqu idno Nanqu idno Coverack Skewjack Por thgwarra

Pended Accepted Accepted Accepted Not submitted by observer Rejected after re-circulation No reply received to date (1st winter) Accepted (Ad. + 2nd wint) Not submitted by observers Not submitted by observers (Adult of Jan 21st) Rejected Rejected Accepted Accepted Accepted Accepted Not submitted by observers Accepted Pended

The following rarities which were submitted to BBRC, but which were not included in 'Birds in Cornwall 1984', were rejected.

Black-browed Albatross Padstow Jun 15th

Bairds Sandpiper Mounts Bay Oct 22nd

1983

Baillons Crake South Polar Skua

Madeiran Petrel American Wigeon South Polar Skua Varied Thrush

Marazion St Ives

1982

St Ives All St Ives Nanquidno

1981

Buff-breasted Sandpiper Sennen

1978

Fan-tailed Warbler Marazion

Rejected Pended

Pended Pended Pended Pended

Accepted

Rejected

CORRECTIONS and ADDITIONS

1984 Dotterel St Just Airfield: one Sept 7th ARP

(The second line under this species should of course read: '1 staying a considerable time in atypical estuarine habi ta t ' and not '1 staying a considerable time in a typical estuarine habi ta t ' which gives the sentence a completely different meaning.

Ortolan Bunting delete RS after Rame Head bird. Bluethroat Male probably white spotted race at Colliford Res Sept

26th. JFB et al.

107

1983

Spotted Sandpiper The Drift bird was last noted Dec 3rd. LPW.

RINGING REPORT 1984

Compiled by R. J. Salmon During the year, a total of 3469 birds of 71 species were reported as ringed in

the county. Of these, 2846 were full grown and 623 were pulli.

The following figures represent many hours of hard work in the field.

Outs tanding features are the consolidation of the pied flycatcher colony at Lanhydrock - a vindication of nestboxes, the continued spread of Cettis warbler from the continent and the importance of Bodmin Moor for breeding wheatear. Unlike Devon, willow tit once again outnumbered marsh tit in the totals.

New species for these totals were common scoter, woodcock, melodious warbler, yellow-browed warbler and bearded tit.

Contributors:

S. M. Chris tophers — 1200 birds of 46 species (St Columb and Par) F. M. Couch — 433 birds of 37 species (Bodmin and Par) N. B. Exelby — 36 birds of 12 species (Mullion) E .G . & G.G. Gynn — 363 birds of 34 species (Zennor) A. W. G. John — 31 birds of 10 species (Crantock) F. H. C. Kendall — 83 birds of 23 species (Bude) J. A. d ' E Miller — 194 birds of 29 species (Upper Fowey Valley) D . M . & L . F . C . Love — 120 birds of 26 species. (Trebetherick) B. Pat tenden — 700 birds of 31 species (Marazion) R. J. Salmon — 119 birds of 21 species (Lanivet) M. W. Tyler — 43 birds of 10 species (Camelford) Wheatear Study Group — 147 birds of 8 species (Bodmin Moor)

RECOVERIES A N D CONTROLS

Cormorant Ring number GBT 5053803 ringed as a nestling at Clew Bay, Mayo, Eire on

20th May 1984 was shot, taking t rout at Drift Res on 6th November 1985.

Ring number 5070366 ringed as a nestling at Puffin Island, Anglesey, on 19th June 1982 was watched at Pa r 7th March 1985. Ring read in the field.

Shag Ring number 1087247 ringed as a nestling at Mullion on 15th June 1975 was

found dead entangled in discarded fishing line at Devoran on 9th Oct 1985.

Black-headed Gull Ring number 4379548 ringed as a nestling at Ulemiste, Tallinn, Estonia on 10th

June 1982 was watched at Millbrook on 6th Jan 1985. Ring read in the field.

Ring number 17226 ringed as a nestling at Lake Druzno , Zolwiniec, Poland on 15th June 1977 was watched at Pa r 30th January and 30th December 1985. Ring read in the field.

Ring number 83100 ringed as an adult at Wladyslawowo, Gdansk, Poland on 18th March 1985 was watched at Millbrook on 27th October 1985. Ring read in field.

108

Great Black-backed Gull Ring number HW 09770 ringed as a nestling at Mullion Island on 4th July 1971

was found dead at Polurr ian on 4th August 1985 (14 years old).

Oystercatcher Ring number FV 42797 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 7th August

1978 was found dead there 31st Jan 1985.

Ring number SS 95327 ringed as a third year bird at Camel Est on 14th August 1972 was found dead there on 31st Jan 1985 (16 years old).

Ring number FS 61776 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 22nd Jul 1975 was controlled there on 11th Aug 1984.

Ring number FV 42535 ringed as an adult at Camel Est on 27th Aug 1977 was found dead there on 19th January 1985.

Ring number FV 42770 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 7th Aug 1978 was found dead there on 29th Jan 1985.

Ring number FV 42743 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 7th Aug 1978 was found dead there on 27th Jan 1985.

Ring number FV 42774 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 7th Aug 1978 was found dead there on 18th Jan 1985.

Ring number FV 42797 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Est on 7th Aug 1978 was found dead there on 31st Jan 1985.

Ring number FV 61218 ringed as a first year bird at Camel Est on 24th Aug 1980 was found dead at Doune , Central Region, Scotland on 21st Apr 1985.

Ring number FV 89196 ringed as an adult at Camel Est on 20th Aug 1981 was found dead there on 29th Jan 1985.

Ring number FV 89245 ringed as a second year bird at St Johns Lake on 5th Sept 1981 was controlled at Slikken Oud Tonge, Zuid-Hol land, Netherlands 12th Sept 1985.

Ring number FV 89350 ringed as an adult at Camel Est on 11th Aug 1984 was found dead there on 3rd Feb 1985.

All recoveries of Camel Est birds are included and illustrate remarkable site-fidelity by the species. The recoveries also illustrate the devastating affect the cold weather had on the species last year.

Ringed Plover Ring number BV 52947 ringed as a first year male at Hayle Est on 13th Sept

1980 was controlled at Seal Sands, Teesmouth, Cleveland on 14th Aug 1985.

Dunlin Ring number NS 28031 ringed as a first year bird at Camel Est on 21st Aug 1982

was controlled at Anse de l 'Aiguillon, Vendee, France on 20th Apr 1985.

Curlew Ring number FV 61010 ringed as a first year bird at Treyarnon Bay on 11th Aug

1978 was killed by a cat at Trevose 13th Oct 1985.

Ring number FV 61255 ringed as a first year bird at Camel Est on 27th Aug 1980 was found dead having hit wires at Kyndbyvaerket , Sjaelland, Denmark on 23rd Apr 1985.

109

Redshank Ring number DR 43516 ringed as a first year bird at Camel Est on 28th Aug

1977 was controlled at Ogwen Est, Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales on 3rd Aug 1985.

Ring number DR 43770 ringed as a first year bird at Camel Est on 20th Aug 1980 was controlled at Banks Marsh , Ribble Est, Lanes on 29th May 1985.

(As always the editors of this report are grateful to Roger and Barbara Swinfen for supplying wader recovery data from the files of the Devon and Cornwall Wader Ringing Group) .

Water Rail Ring number 6311702 ringed at Heligoland, West Germany found dead at

Illogan on 29th Sept 1985. (We await full ringing details).

Barn Owl Ring number GJ 77833 ringed as a nestling at St Columb Major on 21st June

1984 was found dead at St Co lumb Minor on 3rd December 1984.

Ring number GJ 77834 ringed as a nestling at St Co lumb Major on 21st June 1984 was found dead, road casualty at St Mawgan on 30th Oct 1984. (Two birds from the same nest illustrate how vulnerable the species is).

Robin Ring number B 843814 ringed as a juvenile at Bridgnorth, Shropshire on 16th

July 1983 was found dead at St Eval on 23rd January 1985.

Sedge Warbler Ring number 12430 ringed as a first year bird at Vale Marais , Guernsey,

Channel Isles on 25th Apr 1984 was controlled at Trebetherick 13th May 1985.

Willow Warbler Ring number 2J1888 ringed as a juvenile at Upper Fowey Valley on 12th Sept

1984 was controlled at Wat l ington, Oxon 13th July 1985.

Ring number 074116 ringed as a first year bird at Redmoor 17th June 1985 was controlled at Por t land Bill, Dorset 17th Aug 1985.

Chiffchaff Ring number 756305 ringed as an adult at Long Rock on 1st Aug 1985 was

found mor ibund at Olorlon Ste Marie , Pyrenees-Attart ianes, France on 8th October 1985.

110

SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES RINGED

1985 Cumulative Totals Adult Pulli Total Adult Pulli Total

Storm Petrel — — — 1 — 1 Fulmar — — — 3 — 3 C o m m o n Scoter 1 — 1 1 — 1 Manx Shearwater — — — 2 — 2 Gannet — — — 2 — 2 Mute Swan — — — 66 — 66 Shelduck — — — 8 — 8 Mallard — — — 1 — 1 Sparrowhawk 5 — 5 9 2 11 Buzzard — 3 3 — 17 17 Kestrel — — — — 24 24 Water Rail 2 — 2 5 — 5 Spotted Crake — — — 1 — 1 Oystercatcher — — — 409 6 415

111

Ringed Plover Lapwing

2 1

— 2 1

203 22 3

203 25

A Knot Sanderling — — —

4 22

1 992

1

— 22 1

992 1

Curlew Sandpiper Dunlin 4 — 4

4 22

1 992

1

—

22 1

992 1 Jack Snipe — — —

4 22

1 992

1 —

22 1

992 1

Snipe 5 — 5 1

8 1 1

8 1 1 1

Woodcock 1 — 5 1

8 1 1

8 1 1 1

Black-tailed Godwit — — —

8 1 1 —

8 1 1 1 Bar-tailed Godwit — — — 1 —

8 1 1 1

Whimbrel — — — 5 — 5 73 Curlew — — — 73 —

5 73

Spotted Redshank Redshank — —

7 297 —

7 297

48 45

Greenshank — — — 48 —

7 297

48 45 Turnstone — — — 45 —

7 297

48 45

Black-headed Gull 2 — 2 10 — 10 12 24

1

Herring Gull 7 — 7 12 — 10 12 24

1 Guillemot — — — 24

1

10 12 24

1 Razorbill — — — 24

1 —

10 12 24

1

Stock Dove — — — — 2 2 Woodpigeon 2 — 2 4

11 1

5 9 13 Collared Dove — — —

4 11

1 2

9 13

Cuckoo — — —

4 11

1 2 3 Barn Owl 1 21 22 10 115 125

Little Owl — — — 1 2 3 Tawny Owl 3 3 6 13

1 12 25

1 1

Short-eared Owl — — — 13

1 25

1 1 Long-eared Owl — — — 1 —

25 1 1

Swift — — — 3 — 3 5 3

Kingfisher — — 1

5 — 3 5 3 Green Woodpecker 1 — 1 3 —

3 5 3

Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 — 1 4 — 4 Skylark Sand Martin 2 z 2 38

6 6 38

Swallow 151 36 187 2735 353 3088

House Martin 5 — 5 20 22 42

Tree Pipit — — — 5 7 12 Meadow Pipit 10 4 14 24

1 15 39

1 Water Pipit — — — 24

1 39

1 Rock Pipit — — — — 5 5

39 Yellow Wagtail — — — 39 — 5

39 Grey Wagtail 3 4 7 14 39 53 Pied Wagtail Dipper Wren

3 4 22

7 22

132 23

49 142

181 165

Pied Wagtail Dipper Wren 115 8 123 685 24 709

Dunnock 76 — 76 608 15 623

Robin 123 7 130 797 57 854

Black Redstart 1 — 1 2 — 2 Redstart 2 5 7 8 11 19 Whinchat — — — 10 — 10 Stonechat 4 3 7 39 10 49 Wheatear 51 79 130 320 302 622

Blackbird 84 7 91 630 92 722 Fieldfare — — — 2 — 2 Song Thrush 40 3 43 207 30 237 Redwing 19 — 19 114 — 114

112

Mistle Thrush 2 2 5 7 12 52 26

Cettis Warbler 28 28 52 12 52 26 Grasshopper Warbler 26

12 52 26

Aquat ic Warbler 13 13 Sedge Warbler 169 — 169 2039 _ 2039 Reed Warbler 271 271 1887 4 1891 Icterine Warbler 1

1 1 1

11 190

Melodious Warbler 1 1 1 1

1 1

11 190

Lesser White throat 11

1 1

11 190 White throat 8 8 190

1 1

11 190

Garden Warbler 11 11 122 122 Blackcap 57 57 341 341 Yellow-browed Warbler 1 1 1 1

613 Chiffchaff 94 94 605 8 1

613 Willow Warbler 168 9 168 1235 85 1320 Pallas Warbler 1 1

465 Goldcrest 69 69 465 _ 1

465 Firecrest 4 4 42 42 Spotted Flycatcher 4 9 13 27 52 79 Pied Flycatcher 1 34 35 9 108 117 Long-tailed Tit 73 73 394 1 395 Marsh Tit 9 — 9 103 14 117 Willow Tit 15 — 15 100 14 114 Coal Tit 29 — 29 107 38 145 Blue Tit 304 257 561 2989 1346 4335 Great Tit 108 79 187 800 188 988 Nuthatch 1 1 10 26 36 Treecreeper 15 — 15 63 63 Jay 1 — 1 9 9 Magpie 2 5 7 10 32 42 Jackdaw 5 4 9 27 12 39

g Rook 3 3 8 39

g Carr ion Crow 10 10 3 21 24 Starling 124 — 124 858 858 House Sparrow 31 — 31 238 1 239 Hawfinch 1 1

893 Chaffinch 73 4 77 869 24 1

893 Brambling — — 4 4 Greenfinch 228 — 228 945 20 965 Goldfinch 21 — 21 61 9 70 Siskin 21 — 21 42 42 Linnet 71 3 74 126 18 144 Redpoll — 3 3 Bullfinch 61 61 337 3 340

81 Yellowhammer 1 1 74 7 340

81 Cirl Bunting — 3 3 Reed Bunting 35 35 268 4 272 Corn Bunting — — 1 21 22

Totals 2846 623 3469 24319 3437 27756

Erra ta : Blue Tit pulli total for 1984 should read 302 and not 310.

1985 proved to be a very difficult year for t rapping warblers. Strong winds, showers and even fog during July and August caused much interruption to the ringing routine. Two prime net sites in the reed bed were abandoned due to an increase in the depth of water. The completed Long Rock flood prevention scheme has raised the water table by about two feet, which, in the long run, can only be beneficial to the birds, because the area had been drying out in recent summers .

Few birds were caught in spring due to the poor weather. The return of Sedge Warblers was rather thin, and prolonged singing by males may indicate that females were scarce.

Reed Warblers returned in good numbers and had a successful breeding season. Numbers trapped were similar to 1984.

Sedge Warblers were scarce in au tumn. A 'fall ' on the night of Aug 17th resulted in ten birds being ringed the next morning. The total of 114 juveniles was an increase of 2 on the 1984 figure. I have previously noted that Sedge Warblers were caught in lesser numbers and perhaps the change in net sites had something to do with the low number caught .

Aphids were not seen during the au tumn and therefore, with less food available, warblers may have passed through quickly.

Thirty two previously ringed Reed Warblers is the highest total to date . The oldest returning bird was seven years old.

RECOVERIES A N D CONTROLS

REED WARBLER A juvenile ringed at Long Rock 18th July 1985 was controlled at Slapton Ley,

Devon on 22nd August 1985. 133 kms 30 days.

SEDGE WARBLER A juvenile ringed at Long Rock on 25th July 1984 was controlled at Slapton

Ley, Devon on 5th August 1984. 133kms 11 days.

A juvenile ringed at Long Rock on 12th August 1984 was controlled at L 'Eree , Guernsey, Channel Isles on 27th August 1984. 217kms 15 days.

The trapping of acrocephalus warblers commenced at Long Rock on 3rd July 1971 and the total number of birds t rapped to date is 5090. Of these 2499 are Reed

113

A STUDY OF ACROCEPHALUS WARBLERS AT MARAZION MARSH 1985 (Long Rock Reed-bed 50 08 'N, 5 30 'W)

BIRDS RINGED

SEDGE WARBLER

Returned from

previous May June July Aug. Sept. Oct . Total years

Adults 2 3 4 9 Juveniles 33 64 17 114

REED WARBLER

Adults 3 1 24 4 32 32 Juveniles 80 91 39 6 216

Warblers (21 recoveries and 3 controls) and 2593 Sedge Warblers (12 recoveries and 11 controls) . This means that for an intensively studied bird there is only one recovery per 150 birds t rapped.

********************

Grateful thanks to Lord St. Levan for permission to t rap birds at Marazion Marsh .

Bernard Pattenden

A QUARTER OF A CENTURY OF WILDFOWL COUNTS IN CORNWALL

by D. S. F lumm Introduction

The aim of this report is to bring together the county 's Wildfowl Counts for the twenty-five winters since their inception in 1959. It is hoped that by summarising the da ta for fifteen of our most widely reported species (Table 1), subsequent workers, conservationists in part icular, may be able to more easily identify key sites for certain species and to examine these in greater detail than space allows here. Some of these have already been dealt with by Prater (1981) and the reader is invited to refer to his work for a brief description of some of the sites mentioned below.

The National Wildfowl Counts , instigated in 1947, are organised by the Wildfowl Trust under contract to the Nature Conservancy Council . They cover ducks , geese, swans, Great Crested Grebes and Goot on all Wetland habitats , coastal and inland, from September to March . They were initially organised by D. P. Holmes in Cornwall during the winter 1959/60 until Tony Langford took over in 1966.

Tony Langford only recently relinquished (to the writer) after 19 years as county organiser and this report is a tr ibute to his recording; together with his team of twenty or so counters they now cover about thirty sites throughout the county and their monthly counts provide the very framework upon which conservationists build when such areas become threatened with development.

Of particular ment ion, the following observers are to be especially thanked for all their hard efforts during the period, many of whom are still recording today: Mrs . E. Barr; The late Rev. J. E. Beckerlegge; Mr . & Mrs . K. Bendell; S. F. Bund; J . Conbeer ; B. T. Craven; F . M. Couch; Mrs . P . M. Davies; P . J . Dwyer; The late B. G. Evenden; J . H. Finch; S. Gay; J . S. Gilbert; A. B. Griffiths; E. Griffiths; D. P . Holmes; O. J . Hooker ; Master A. Jago; C. P . Jarvis; Miss M. J . Jones; A. Langford; D. Lidstone; S. C. Madge; B. K. Mellow; J . A. d ' E . Miller; H. Millington; Mr . & Mrs . G. E. Mills; Mr . & Mrs . G. R. McLaughton; The late L. Owen; R. D. Penhallurick; T. K. P lummer ; Mr . & Mrs . R. H. Poynton; P. Richards; The late Capta in E . G. Roper , RN. , CBE; P . D. Round; G. A. Rowe; P . Searle; F . H. Spear; P . Spong; J . H. Swan; E . J . Thomas ; Miss D. Watkins .

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Table 1.

Table 1 summarises data for 15 species over 27 sites but it is by no means comprehensive. A further 28 species and one sub-species have also been recorded during the counts but these were considered to be too scarce to warrant inclusion and so are dealt with separately under the species accounts which follow. Additionally four other sites, Looe estuary, Tory pond , Relubbus and St. Er th ponds have also been counted occasionally but their wildfowl populat ions were so small that they too have been excluded from the table.

The average figures (*) quoted have been calculated by taking the average of the annual maxima on Wildfowl Counts irrespective of the mon th in which the maxima occurred. This follows Penhallurick (1967) and allows a direct comparison to be made with his book .

The sites have been arranged geographically and run west (left) to east (right).

Table 2.

Among other criteria, a Wetland is considered Nationally Impor tan t if it R E G U L A R L Y holds at least 1% of the estimated wintering populat ion of one species or sub-species of waterfowl (Prater 1981, Salmon 1981). Table 2 gives the qualifying levels among widlfowl in this category.

As far as Cornwall is concerned, St. John ' s Lake qualifies on this level for its Wigeon populat ion at 3108 birds per annum on average, whilst the River Lynher almost does so with 1509 individuals annually (Table 1).

115

Table 1. Wildfowl Counts in Cornwall 1959/60-1983/84 inclusive, from maximum counts per winter

(Sept-March) per site

Table 2. Qualifying Levels for National Importance

(* minimum permissible; represents over 1%. - British populat ion too small for meaningful figure to be obtained)

Species Accounts

(a) The Main Species (table 1).

Little Grebe

This species is not on the Recording Sheets so observers would not necessarily always have noted it. There are some glaring omissions eg. Loe Pool , River Lynher and St. J o h n ' s Lake .

Mute Swan

St. J o h n ' s Lake is obviously the main wintering area for this species in Cornwal l , as was noted by Penhallurick (1969), but his statement that " s o m e 60 or more commonly winter on the C a m e l " is not confirmed by observations there today where only 22 have been recorded per a n n u m on average. Elsewhere eg. Restronguet , Hayle and Loe Pool , there has been no apparent change in status and today with an estimated overall mean wintering populat ion of 255 birds, they remain widely distributed throughout the county.

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Species No. birds

Mute Swan 180 Bewick's Swan 50 Whooper Swan 50* Pink-footed Goose: Ice land/Greenland pop . 900 European White-fronted Goose 60 Greenland White-fronted Goose 60 Grey Lag Goose: Iceland p o p . 900 Barnacle Goose: Greenland p o p . 200

Svalbard p o p . 80 Dark-bellied Brent Goose 600 Light-bellied Brent Goose: Canada /Green l and p o p . —

Svalbard p o p . 50* Shelduck 750 Wigeon 2000 Gadwall 50* Teal 1000* Mallard 4000* Pintail 250 Shoveler 90 Pochard 500 Tufted Duck 600 Scaup 50* Eider 500 Long-tailed Duck 200 C o m m o n Scoter 350 Velvet Scoter 50* Goldeneye 150 Smew — Red-breasted Merganser 100 Goosander 50

Shelduck

Along the South coast, two distinct concentrat ions: one in the Truro estuary complex and the other around Torpoint at St. J o h n ' s Lake and the River Lynher. In the Truro area a count of 390 at Tresillian was the highest overall but the River Lynher averages more annually (at 222) than elsewhere. This conforms almost exactly with Penhallurick 's (1969) analysis for the years 1959/60-1966/67 reflecting no change in status since then. Overall more than 1350 birds have been recorded on average annually in the county as a whole.

Wigeon

Our most numerous wildfowl species in Cornwall and, after Mallard, our most widespread. St. John ' s Lake is Nationally Impor tan t for this species whilst the River Lynher had held more than 2000 birds in six of the 22 winters of recording there. In the west, Hayle estuary is the main wintering area, together with the Ruan Lanihorne at Truro . In the nor th , the Camel and Por th Reservoir both support 3-400 birds annually but Walmsley Sanctuary no longer does so. The estimated wintering populat ion for the county as a whole is more than 7350 birds on average.

Gadwall

Recorded in half of the sites but with less than 10 on average annually anywhere, it remains an uncommon winter visitor. 19 at Loe Pool in December 78 is the highest number recorded overall.

Teal

A widespread species, after Wigeon the commonest wintering duck in Cornwall with an overall estimated populat ion of c.2000 birds on average annually. Nevertheless only two sites, Hayle and Truro River support more than 200 birds annually although a third, the River Fal may do so but this area has not been covered sufficiently to date . Hayle estuary may be assuming greater importance for this species in winter: a count of 1980 there on 10th Jan '85 (pers. obs . ) , whilst outside the period covered here, suggests so. There is a discrepancy with Penhallurick (1969) who stated that c.650 Teal were at Hayle in Dec '62 and '63 and 450 at Walmsley Sanctuary Dec '62. The count forms record only 400, 350 and 117 respectively for these years.

Mallard

The most widespread wildfowl species with an annual populat ion averaging 1378 individuals at county level. Five sites averaged a hundred or more individuals: Loe Pool remains the stronghold for this species in the county today and also holds the county record of 600 birds during the cold 1962/63 winter. (In fact the count date missed the peak of 800 there in January that winter).

Pintail

A rather scarce winter visitor, the Camel and Lynher being the favoured areas for this species. Numbers have declined at the former site in recent years, however, so that the significance of the Lynher is now pa ramoun t .

Shoveler

Loe Pool and Marazion marsh are the major wintering areas in the county. Penhallurick (1969) considered that the birds here commute between the two sites and their respective annual mean maxima at 23 and 22 would tend to support this. It remains relatively uncommon elsewhere al though, as with Pintail , it has now been recorded at 18 of the 27 sites listed.

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Pochard

In descending order of importance, Loe Pool , College and Argal reservoirs combined, Drift, Stithians and Por th reservoirs are the principal wintering areas and all hold more than 30 birds on average per annum. The overall mean wintering populat ion at county level is currently more than 337 individuals.

Tufted Duck

This species matches Pochard in its distribution with Loe Pool again, the main wintering area. With an average populat ion of more than 389 birds annually on a county basis, the similarity with the above species is highlighted further. 1

Goldeneye

Recorded every winter at Hayle and Loe Pool , and 20 out of the 23 winters that the Camel has been covered. Numbers in these areas are rather small, however, and it is unfor tunate that Carrick Roads , which on its only visit recorded 32 birds, has not been covered more often.

Red-breasted Merganser

Look at Carrick Roads!

Goosander

An uncommon winter visitor and only Hayle and Loe Pool managed to record it on five out of the twenty-five winters under review. The latter site holds the maximum number of birds (8) to date .

Coot

This species only recently came onto the Recording Sheets so that many winters have passed unrecorded. Nevertheless Loe Pool where it has been noted for 16 of the past 25 winters, is evidently the species stronghold averaging 159 birds overall, as well as recording the largest gathering to date: 376 individuals in Jan '79. The current data is insufficient to estimate the overall wintering populat ion on a county

level.

(b) Other species recorded

Red-throated Diver

Three records of single birds at Carrick Roads , Hayle and Loe Pool and one record of two birds at the first mentioned locality.

Black-throated Diver

Recorded singly at St. J o h n ' s Lake, Drift, Hayle (twice) and Loe Pool , with once two birds at Hayle and three at Carrick Roads .

Great Northern Diver

Recorded singly at Siblyback with two at Carrick Roads and three at St. John ' s Lake once, but at Hayle it is regular: an average of three over eight winters and on one occasion up to nine birds were seen.

Great Crested Grebe

A rare bird in Cornwal l , this species has been recorded at only 8 of the 27 sites listed. The Lynher and St. J o h n ' s Lake have produced the most birds with an

120

average of 2 over 11 winters at the former and 1 over 8 winters at the latter location.

Red-necked Grebe

Single birds recorded at Hayle and Loe Pool (twice).

Slavonian Grebe

Regularly reported only at Hayle estuary (= Carnsew Pool) where an average of two per winter over 11 winters have been recorded, with a maximum of three individuals there on two occasions. Carrick Roads recorded five and four birds respectively over the two winters that it was covered. There is a record for Stithians reservoir but it has yet to be recorded at the remaining sites.

Black-necked Grebe

Recorded singly at Drift reservoir, Hayle (twice) and Por th reservoir with two birds present at Siblyback reservoir (twice) and three at Carrick Roads (once).

Bewick's Swan

Not recorded at any locality more than once, single birds have been seen at Camel, Siblyback and Stithians. Marazion has recorded two birds, Drift reservoir three and Hayle seventeen.

Whooper Swan

Drift, Marazion and Camel have all recorded this species twice al though the maximum numbers involved at two, four and six respectively are rather small. Otherwise only Hayle (single bird) and Tresillian (five birds) have recorded Whooper Swans on Wildfowl Counts .

Pink-footed Goose

Only three sites have recorded Pink-feet: Siblyback (one bird) , Ruan Lanihorne (two) and Walmsley Sanctuary (four birds) all during single winters only.

White-fronted Goose

Sadly Cornwall has now lost this 'grey goose ' which at one time was " t h e commonest wild goose" in the county (Pennallurick 1969). Its main wintering ground, Walmsley Sanctuary which recorded White-fronts over eleven winters during the early years and averaged 277 birds anually, has now been drained so that today they no longer occur there or the neighbouring Camel estuary to which many used to commute . It is a sobering thought that the Amble marshes at Walmsley once held up to 2000 White-fronted Geese.

Elsewhere seven sites have recorded this species on single occasions, the number of birds being seen at each, bracketed as follows: Hayle (5), Stithians (3), Fal (1), River Gannel (3), Crowdy (7), Siblyback (19) and the River Lynher (2).

Grey Lag Goose

Single Grey Lags have visited the Camel estuary on four occasions and Loe Pool and Siblyback once. Two individuals have been seen on The Lynher (once).

Canada Goose

The River Lynher has reported 29, 30 and 36 birds over three winters and remains the species stronghold in the county today al though the largest number ever reported (43) was at Walmsley Sanctuary. Other areas which have recorded Canadas are: Crowdy, Camel, Marazion, St. John ' s Lake and Hayle estuary al though only one-three birds have been involved at each.

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Barnacle Goose

Single birds have been reported at Loe Pool and Hayle (twice) and two occurred at Tresillian one winter, but Ruan Lanihorne has over-shadowed these with reports over three winters of one , four and three birds respectively.

Brent Goose

The estuaries at Hayle, Camel and St. John ' s Lake have attracted this species with some regularity but it remains a scarce winter visitor to Cornwall . The last mentioned holds the county record at 16 birds one winter whilst 12 have occurred at Hayle, The Fal estuary has also recorded Brent twice (eight and seven birds respectively) and a single bird once visited Pa r beach area.

Blue Snow Goose

1 Walmsley Sanctuary January 1963, presumably an escape from captivity.

Mandarin

1 at Par Pools 1982/83 followed by two there 1983 /4.

American Wigeon

4 Hayle estuary 1981/82.

Green-winged Teal

A single drake reported at Hayle estuary over 5 winters 1977 to 1983 was presumably the same as that reported near Sennen in 1983.

Garganey

Being a scarce summer visitor, it is hardly surprising that only four sites have ever recorded this species. Drift has the distinction of recording Garganey over three seasons whilst Marazion and Stithians have also recorded the species twice. The records are: Drift (2 .1.10), Marazion (1.4), Stithians (3.1) and Sennen (2).

Ring-necked Duck

Singles at Drift reservoir in January 1979 and Loe Pool in January 1981.

Scaup

Recorded from eleven sites overall of which Drift and Loe Pool seem to be the most popular but this is an u n c o m m o n winter visitor with never more than three at Drift or two at Loe being recorded together. The largest party (ten birds) comes from St. J o h n ' s Lake al though it has only been recorded twice here. Hayle, Crowdy and the River Lynher have each recorded Scaup once whilst Sennen, Marazion, Sti thians, Po r th and the Camel have all recorded it over two separate seasons.

Eider

Only recorded at three sites: once only at Carrick Roads (two birds) and Truro river (one), but the Camel has recorded two over four winters and once boasted nine birds .

Long-tailed Duck

Drift, Ruan Lanihorne , Pa r , Camel and St. John ' s Lake have all recorded single birds once but this species has been recorded on two occasions at Marazion, on three occasions at Loe Pool and four times at Hayle estuary. The last three places have also recorded up to two birds on occasion.

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Common Scoter

This species follows a similar distribution of records to eider above being recorded once at Carrick Roads (five birds), twice at St. J o h n ' s Lake (max two birds) and nine times at the Camel where up to 12 birds have been recorded on one occasion (average three).

Velvet Scoter

Two at Carrick Roads Dec 1973.

Smew

There are single records from the Hayle and Camel estuaries involving single birds and Pa r beach once recorded two individuals but Siblyback has the monopoly with an average of four birds recorded over four seasons.

Ruddy Duck

Both Stithians and Por th reservoirs have recorded single birds once only but a flock of five visited Loe Pool and Drift reservoir in 1979 and Loe again in 1982.

Moorhen

Under-recorded. Nevertheless Clowance P o n d with 55 birds one winter would seem to be the Moorhen mecca in Cornwall ; Po r th reservoir (fifteen) Pa r pools (ten), Relubbus ponds (five) and St. Er th pools (two) hardly come close.

THE FUTURE

What the future has in store for Cornwall ' s wildfowl depends largely upon a more enlightened att i tude by such bodies as the Water Board towards it. Their destruction of the main wintering grounds of the White-fronted Goose in Cornwall has been the single most significant event the county has seen for decades. Local bird-watchers now have to travel to Slimbridge (an extra two hundred miles) instead of Walmsley Sanctuary, if they are to enjoy wild geese in the winter.

Unfortunately the situation elsewhere along the nor th coast does not look much better. The Gannel estuary may soon be sealed off to produce a fresh-water lagoon for "recreational u s e " . The problems facing the Hayle estuary further west which is currently under threat from various developmental proposals by Tekoa Ltd have been widely publicised.

Along the south coast our main concern at present is over the Fal estuary complex (for which we have rather little data) . A proposed container por t at the seaward end of Carrick Roads where a new jetty is also planned may have far-reaching consquences on the wildfowl of this area once intended tide-flow restrictions are imposed. H o w will this effect diving species like C o m m o n Scoter, Eider, Red-breated Mergansers, Goldeneye, Cormoran t s , Shags, divers and grebes which all winter in the area?

The above threats to our wildfowl sites illustrate only too well the importance of continuing Wildfowl Counts in the county; they are more important today than they have ever been and the data produced from the small number of hard-working observers who religiously go out year after year to obtain it form our only ammunit ion against these destructive practices.

Acknowledgements

I wish to thank Tony Langford for providing the raw data from which Table 1 has been constructed and also for reading, together with Roy Phillips, the final draft of this report .

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References

Penhallurick, R. D. (1969) Birds of the Cornish Coast . Barton Ltd . , T ru ro . Pra ter , A. J . (1981). Estuary Birds of Britain and Ireland. Poyser, Cal ton. Salmon, D. G. (ed.) (1981). Wildfowl and Wader Counts 1980-81. Wildfowl Trust ,

Slimbridge.

1985 BREEDING WOODLARK SURVEY

by Roger Smaldon

Object of the survey:

Woodlarks are very much a declining species over much of their range in Britain. Observers were requested to search likely areas, especially around old known breeding sites, to establish the status of woodlarks within the county. The presence of a bird or birds at a likely breeding site was thought sufficient for the survey, and no further details of nesting success, etc. , was called for.

Results of the survey:

As it happened a worst year for a survey of breeding woodlarks could not be imagined. Always a tricky species to locate, the cold and wet spring and summer made it almost impossible to find birds, and indeed must have had a very damaging effect on their breeding success. The very poor records for 1985 may not therefore reflect the true picture of woodlarks in Cornwall , al though they are obviously only just holding on in the east of the county as a breeding species. Some years ago E. Griffiths, whilst working daily in market gardens in the Tamar Valley, noticed that the presence of birds was very much linked with bulb and strawberry fields actively in product ion . Nests were at times found amongst the rows of strawberry plants . Once the field was left fallow, birds no longer showed any interest in it. Hence with the closing down of many nurseries in the Tamar Valley the species appeared to become scarcer. The reasons for the decline generally in other parts of the county are cetainly not linked to one possible cause, and a much wider reason must be looked for, however it is interesting to note that Mrs. M. P. Visick recently recalled that the demise of the species in the Perranwell area coincided with the closure of the local market garden, where birds had been regular in previous years.

P. Chesbrough was the only person doing survey work in 1985 who was lucky enough to find woodlarks . He encountered a singing male on May 27th at an established site near Bohetherick in the Tamar Valley, once again singing over a market garden. He did not find this bird on other occasions but did have brief views of a bird at Har rowbar row April 4th flying south west, giving a short burst of song.

The 1986 national Woodlark Survey organised by the B .T .O. has now taken place, and present indications are that a few more of these beautiful songsters may be present in the Tamar Valley area than was first thought .

Negative reports were received in 1985 from Carrine C o m m o n Truro (incorrectly called Trendrine C o m m o n in a previous Report) , Lerryn, Lostwithiel, Restormel Water Works , Lanhydrock , Tregatillian, Botus Fleming, two sites at Har rowbar row and St. Germans .

Many thanks for all their efforts in a really wet and miserable summer to P. Chesbrough, G. J . Conway, A. H. J . H a r r o p , Mrs . S . D. Johns , M. Rayment, and B. L. W e b b . Thanks also, for addit ional informat ion, to S. M. Christophers and E. Griffiths.

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1985 BREEDING SEABIRD SURVEY

by Roger Smaldon

Objects of the Survey:

In 1967, in the wake of the "Tor rey C a n y o n " oil disaster, Roy Phillips with the assistance of other Cornish birdwatchers surveyed the coast for breeding seabirds.

The object was to establish the effect of the oil and the massive amounts of detergents used to clean up beaches, etc. , on our breeding seabird numbers , especially auks .

It was realised then, that information in the past on seabird numbers , had to a large extent been at best vague, with only the most cursory estimate of numbers made, and localities expressed in a very imprecise way.

The "Opera t ion Seafarer" Survey of 1969/70 was to establish nationally the state of Britains breeding seabirds, but as coverage for this was not so good in Cornwall , it is the 1967 survey that must act as a yardstick for any other assessment of our seabirds.

Much information has been received since 1967 on seabird populat ions and will be found in the Annual Reports of this Society, but until 1985 no full survey had been undertaken to try to assess the present popula t ions , and any trends that may have shown since 1967 in our still very polluted environment .

As this was a relatively large survey and our Society members generally not used to survey work, it was decided not to ask for too much information from observers. Members were asked to note breeding pairs on an allotted stretch of coast, and if actual pairs were difficult to ascertain, as with the auks , then a count of the number present would be sufficient. Other information regarding breeding success was not called for, but of course was accepted with appreciation if obtained.

Results of the Survey:

It was hoped that the whole of the coast could be covered, but this proved a little optimistic. Stretches of coast, some unfortunately large, were not covered or hardly covered and this of course must reflect in any comments made . This lack of coverage affected some species more than others .

Another source of some concern were the offshore islands, which were largely covered only on the landward side, boats not being available to many observers. A list of areas not covered is given below.

Having said that however, it should be stressed that by far the largest proport ion of productive coastline was covered, and much usful information was collected by many members who assisted in the survey and this will hopefully spur others on to keep track of our vulnerable seabird populat ions in years to come. At risk of boring the general reader of this Report the information obtained in this survey is noted in full.

The organiser feels that the information should be readily and easily available to anyone in the future wishing to study seabirds in the county, and merely giving precised sketches of results obtained, whilst the records themselves lay collecting dust in somebody's attic, is not helpful to the aims of the survey.

As mentioned above, localities at times in the past have been noted by observers, as being near a well known beach or headland or with the nearest village given. To be more precise and alleviate this problem for future researchers, m a p references have been given, most by the observers, for all species except Herring

125

Gull, where due to the breeding distribution along most of the coast, this was just not practical.

Localities for all species are listed in an anti-clockwise manner starting at the county boundary near Marsland Mouth , and ending at P lymouth Sound.

Coastline not covered in the Survey:

The following stretches were either not covered at all in the survey, or only covered very sparsely by casual records sent in to the Recorder:

Bude to Boscastle Boscastle to east of Lye Rock Dennis Head , Trebarwith Strand to Tregardock Beach Trevose Head to Newquay Pendeen to Penber th Pa r to Fowey Pol ruan to Looe Island

FULMAR

126

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Gull Rock, Marsland Mou th 204171

4 pairs M a y / J u n e

Henna Cliff, Morwenstow 199158

3 pairs M a y / J u n e one pair here in 1967

Maer Cliff, nr . Bude 202082

2 pairs M a y / J u n e

Willapark nr. Bossiney 5 pairs June 25th 3 pairs in the area 1967

Tintagel Head 051889 5 pairs June 25th 9 pairs in the Tintagel / Dennis Pt area in 1967

Penhallic Head 045876 to Hole Beach 051874

47 pairs June 25th

Trebarwith Strand 049866 1 pair June 25th

Dennis Point 045864 30 pairs June 25th

Nr . Tregardock Cliff 035831

5 pairs June 28th

Nr . Tresungers Point 015813

4 pairs June 3rd

Tresungers Point 009813 10 pairs June 3rd 10 pairs in 1967

Nr. Tresungers Point 008813

5 pairs June 3rd

Nr. Por t Gaverne 005811 to 005812

30 pairs June 3rd

Nr . Por t Gaverne 004812 17 pairs June 3rd

Por t Isaac 995809 15 pairs June 5th

Pine Haven 990810 3 pairs June 5th

V a r l e y H e a d 983814 10 pairs June 5th Varley Head to the Rumps 34 pairs in 1967

K e l l a n H e a d 972813 3 pairs June 5th

127

Doyden Pt . 967807 to Gilsons Cove 966804

5 pairs June 5th-26th

Epphaven Cove 961799 13/17 pairs June 6th-26th

Lundy Bay 958799 to Nr. The Rumps 931808

22 pairs June 5th-26th

Nr. Pentire Pt . 925804 2 pairs June 5th-26th

The Greenaway, nr. Polzeath 929787

2 pairs June 5th-26th

Butter Hole 90778 nr. Stepper Point

3 pairs Aug 1st 13 pairs Stepper P t . to Porthmissen in 1967

Nr. Gunver Head 898774 1 pair Aug 1st one young

Nr. Tregudda Gorge 894767 10 pairs Aug 1st one young in each nest

Nr. Porthmissen Bridge 893765

1 pair Aug 1st one young

Marble Cliffs, Porthmissen 891764

17 pairs Aug 1st one young in each nest. Another observer noted c.40 pairs here May 1st. Presumably many non breeders

Newtrain Bay nr. Trevone 885756

6 pairs Aug 1st One young in each nest

Mother Ivy's Bay 860765 1 pair Aug 1st one young

Stinking Cove, Trevose 850764

25 pairs June 29th

Beacon Cove 843667 25 pairs plus another 3 close to cove July 7th

Observer noted dramat ic increase here in recent years.

East Pentire 787615 30 + birds in area June 29th, but breeding numbers uncertain

West Pentire 772610 to Por th Joke 772606

5 pairs June 29th

Droskyn Point 751543 to C l i g g a H e a d 738538

15 pairs May 28th 20 pairs in 1967

Cligga Head to Trevaunance Cove 724518

16 pairs June 26th 26 pairs in 1967

Nr. St Agnes 720518 to 719518

8 pairs July 6th

St Agnes Head 698515 to Chapel Por th 697496

1 pair

Chapel Por th to Por th towan 690480

Nr. Por th towan 688477 to 680475

7 pairs

11 pairs plus 28 birds prospecting

Western Cove 646453 120 birds nesting June 15th Por t rea th to Carvannel 50 pairs in 1967

128

Carvannel (Por th Cadjack Cove) 641449

3 birds nesting June 15th i

Samphire Island 638448 2 birds nesting June 15th i

Derrick Cove 619430 to Godrevy 580433

83 nest sites occupied May 19th-June 6th

Carvannel to Godrevy 58 pairs in 1967

C a m Naun Point 478410 1 pair June 25th

Horseback Zawn 448392 5 pairs June 20th

Boswednack Cliff 439383 16 pairs June 15th

Bosigran Cliff 415368 3 pairs June 19th

Trevowhan Cliff 406361 4 pairs June 19th

Greeb Point 398362 2 pairs June 19th

Gwennap Head 367215 12 nests June 28th

Nr . Po r thgua rnon 413228 3 pairs April 17th

Boscawen Point 433230 8 pairs April 17th

Tater-du 439231 5 pairs April 17th

Slinke Dean 462245 6 pairs April 17th

Point Spaniard 469257 10 pairs April 17th

Hoe Point 570278 6 pairs prospecting May 4th

4 pairs in 1967

Bashers Harbour nr Rinsey Head 588273

4 pairs prospecting April 17th, but none in June

2 pairs bred here in 1984

Rinsey Head 591269 2 pairs breeding plus 2 pairs prospecting

Breeding unsuccessful

Trewavas Head 600265 to 602265

a total of 10 pairs breeding and 2 prospecting at three sites

One pair known to be unsuccessful but 2 chicks at another site Aug 15th

Trequean Zawn 603266 to 605266

9 pairs breeding and 3 pairs prospecting at two sites

2 prospecting pairs gone by June

Nr . Tremearne 614267 3 pairs breeding

Tremearne to Pare Trammel Cove 620263

8 pairs breeding

Nr . Poldhu Point 664193 7 pairs with chicks July 23rd

24 birds present here March 12th

Mullion Cove 667178 to 665176

2 pairs prospecting May 12th

Vellan Head area 671147 1 pair prospecting May 12th

Pigeon Ogo 674142 5 pairs May 12th 30 birds present March 9th

Caerthillian 694124 to Church Cove 715128

17 pairs (2 at Pol ledan and 15 at Housel Bay)

Enys Head 728150 2 pairs May 20th

129

The Gew, St Anthony 783261

4 pairs nested and 3 other birds prospecting

4 chicks reared

High Cliff, Maen Por th 792293

1 pair June 10th

Kiberick Cove 924380 3 pairs May 24th

Manare Point 935389 15 pairs May 24th c.10 pairs Manare P t . , to Port loe in 1967

Nr. Manare Point 937391 35 pairs May 24th

Portloe 940393 to Caragloose Pt . 947400

birds present and probably prospecting

Portholland 958412 10/12 pairs May 16th

Nr. Hemmick Beach 986406 1 pair probably prospecting April 25th

Greeb P t . , t o the D o d m a n 10 pairs in 1967

Hemmick Beach to Gell Point 995399

6 pairs prospecting April 25th

The Dodman area 000392 to 005400

c.10 pairs April 24th and June 7th

Gorran Haven 015415 c. 15 pairs April 19th and c.20 pairs June 6th

Nr. Polstreath 016453 3 + pairs April 3rd and June 5th

Portgiskey 017463 4 pairs June 4th

Pentewan Cliffs 017464 1 pair June 5th

Porthpean 034508 20 + pairs in June

Carrickowel Point 035509 to Carlyon Bay 052519

4 pairs June 8th

Millendreath Cliffs 268539

1 pair nesting May 19th and June

Bodigga Cliff 274541 2 pairs May 19th and June

Keveral Cliff 295543 5 pairs May 19th and and June

one site still occupied with 2 young Aug 26th

Battern Cliff 330539 1 pair probably breeding May 31st

prospecting noted in 1968

Cargloth Cliff 339537 1 pair prospecting May 31st

Eglarooze Cliff 349539 1 pair prospecting May 31st

Long Sands 385528 1 prospecting in July

Freathy 397519 4 pairs

Treganhawke 407512 15 pairs April 5th. Presumably only prospect­ing as none noted later in summer during survey

prospecting noted in 1968

Queener Point 415489 one pair a t tempted nesting

Rame Head 420484 one bird prospecting in 2 pairs here in 1984 spring and a pair present early summer but did not breed

REMARKS:

A very difficult species to survey. The only way to be sure the birds seen on cliffs are breeders is to count young in late summer. The picture early on in the season is always clouded by the presence of non breeders and birds prospecting. As birds apparent ly paired can prospect cliffs for many years without actually nesting, the numbers counted at some sites especially early in the breeding season must be viewed with some caut ion.

However , having made that reservation it is quite apparent from the approximate numbers and spread of the species along the south coast that as expected Fulmars are to be found in Cornwall in much higher numbers than in 1967.

Several stretches of good coast for Fulmars were not counted in 1985 including the quarry near L a m o r n a where a possible 50 pairs were located in 1982 and most of the coast between Trevose and Newquay which was always productive for this species.

An estimate of 472 breeding pairs was made in 1967 and it is not inconceivable that even allowing for prospecting birds and non breeders the 1985 breeding populat ion is about double that figure.

CORMORANT

130

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Nr. Bounds Cliff 015813

3 nests 10 here in 1967

Nr. Varley Head 982813

3 pairs possibly breeding

The Mouls 937816 despite thorough search none found

14 here in 1967

Hell 's Mou th 604431 7 nests on two stacks 10 here in 1967

T h e G r e e b 531291 8 birds present May 5th but probably not breeding

c.8 here in 1967. The present observer feels that this may well have referred to roosting birds, as he waded out to the island June 6th and found no sign of nesting.

Mullion Island 661176 45 nests May 12th and 41 adults visible June 15th

Observer thought the May count to be of moderate accuracy. 21 nests here in 1967 and 46 in 1983.

REMARKS:

About 139 pairs were present in 1967, and 170 during the Operat ion Seafarer Census 1969/70.

A maximum number of 97 were located in 1985, but with Gulland Rock off Padstow not being counted at all and Gull Rock off Nare Head being possibly under recorded, the overall populat ion in Cornwall could be approximately the same as in 1967.

SHAG

131

T h e V r o 664175 none found None also in 1983 al though 31 in 1969, 20 in 1967 and c.50 in 1924. This site, presumably, forms part of the Mullion Island colony and is used intermitten­tly when condit ions dictate.

Gull Rock off Nare Head 927369

4 pairs This count could well be too low as only counted from landward side. 35 pairs here in 1967.

East Porthol land 961411 1 pair present but breeding not proven

Looe Island 256515 one nest June 18th, but the 35 adults and 40 + fledged young with 2 nests with birds still sitting June 30th would perhaps indicate a colony of 15/20 pairs .

None noted here in 1967.

Nr. Keveral Beach 289543

one nest May 22nd

The Long Stone 337537

6 pairs on island and adjacent cliff

3 pairs here in 1967

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

3 pairs in 1967 The Sisters 061900 20 + present June 26th with at least 7 breeding pairs

Comments

3 pairs in 1967

T h e M o u l s 937816 24 breeding pairs June 13th

Count only on landward side, and as birds seen leaving the 'bl ind ' nor thern side it is probable that count too low. 4 pairs in 1967.

Nr. Pentire Point 926803

2 pairs nesting June 13th

Gunver Head 894773

1 pair June 29th 3 young in nest

132

Nr. Gunver Head 894770

2 pairs June 29th 3 young in one nest, and one young in the other.

Porthmissen 893764 1 pair June 29th 2 young in nest

Merope Rocks 862766 6 pairs June 29th 3 young in one nest, 2 young in three nests, and one young in two nests. 10 pairs Stepper Pt to Dinas Head in 1967.

Huers Hut , Newquay 806625

2 pairs June 22nd 2 young in one nest and three young in the other

Nr. Cligga Head 744539

1 nest May 28th 16 pairs Cligga Head to St. Agnes Head in 1967

Nr . Trevaunance Cove to St. Agnes Head 701519

6 nests June 18th

Bawden Rocks 700532 4 certain and probably 6 nests June 18th

4 pairs here in 1967

Nancekuke 680475 2 pairs 2 young in one nest and one in the other.

Western Cove 646453 12 nests May 19th to June 6th

not easily visible perhaps a further 10% missed

Samphire Cove 638448 3 nests May 19th to June 7th

comment as above 5 pairs here in 1967

Crane Island 633441 1 nest May 19th to June 7th

comment as above 3 pairs here in 1967

Nr. Derrick Cove 619430

3 nests

Nr. Derrick Cove 612432

Hudder Cove 606430

3 nests

9 nests

Hell 's Mouth 604431 3 nests

Nr. Navax Point 593434 to 595432

2 colonies with 8 and 9 nests

51 pairs Por t reath to Godrevy Point in 1967

Godrevy Island 5764365

12 nest May 31st only 70% of island covered from shore 8 pairs here in 1967

Boswednack Cliff 439383

3 pairs June 15th 22 pairs found St. Ives to Pendeen in 1967, but prior to "Tor rey C a n y o n " incident 65/70 would have been expected here

Treen Cliff 431383 3 pairs June 15th plus 2 pairs on stack

C a m Gloose 429383 1 pair June 19th

Trevowhan Cliff 406361 1 pair June 19th

Gwennap Head 367215 18 nests June 28th 17 pairs here in 1967

133

T h e G r e e b 531291 10 birds present but no sing of breeding when island visited June 2nd

Rinsey Head 591269 4 pairs nesting June 7th Lesceave Por to Porthleven 17 pairs in 1967

Trewavas Head 602265 601265 602265

14 pairs nesting June 7th 1 pair nesting June 7th 3 pairs nesting June 7th

Trequean Zawn 603266 4 pairs nesting June 7th

Mullion Island 661176 28 nests May 12th thought by observer to be an accurate count 66 here in 1967 and 33 in 1983

The Vro, Mullion 664175 40 nests May 12th observers considers this an accurate count . 47 here in 1967 and 15 in 1983

Scovarn 66179 4 nests May 12th none here in 1983

Pigeon Ogo 674142 1 nest May 12th 3 here in 1983

Nantivet Rock 681134 1 nest May 12th 2 here in 1983

Gull Rock 683131 22 nests May 12th observer considers all or nearly all nests counted. 16 here in 1983

The Bishop 684131 21 nests May 12th all or nearly all nests counted. 11 here in 1983

Lion Rock 688130 10 nests on rock May 12th and a further 5 on cliff

10 total here in 1983 Gew Graze to Polpeor Cove had 60 nests in 1967

Terrick 725145 12 nests May 20th on rock and a further 6 on cliff

17 here in 1967 and 28 in 1983

TheGaider 759167 5 nests

Treleayer Cliff 768165

3 nests

TheGew 783261 6 pairs nesting June 18th 11 young seen

Carricknath Point 845320

1 pair probably nesting June 15th

from here to Nare Hd observer considered the coverage inadequate

Gull Rock off Nare Head 927369

60 pairs May 26th only landward side of island covered c. 150 here in 1967

Manare Point 935389 1 pair May 24th

Greeb Point 982406 1 pair April 25th

The Dodman 000391 4 pairs April 24th but only two pairs June 7th

LESSER BLACK BACKED GULL

Gorran Haven 016414 30/35 pairs April 19th to June 7th

Turbot Point 026428 2 pairs April 23rd

Gull Island, Carlyon Bay 049518

6 nests June 8th

Looe Island 257515 1 nest June 18th complete survey not possible so probably under recorded

Long Stone 337537 to 338537

15 pairs c.20 young seen 22 nests here in 1967

Tregantle Cliff 388525 2 pairs total of six young noted

REMARKS:

This was one of the species expected to have been hardest hit by the "Tor rey C a n y o n " oil and subsequent clean-up operat ions in 1967. About 681 breeding pairs were located in 1967, but al though the counties breeding populat ion was not known with any certainty it was expected that many more , especially in the Lands End area would have been present prior to "Tor rey C a n y o n "

The survey in 1985 produced approximately 556 breeding pairs, but many good areas on the nor th coast, especially the large colony at Carters Rocks estimated at 65 pairs in 1982 and 1983, and the Lands End area, were not counted. The population on the Lizard was about the same as in 1967, with the exception of some reduction at Mullion Is land/ the Vro , but al though the count at Gull Rock off Nare Head was reckoned to be not too accurate, there does appear to be a big reduction in breeding numbers there since 1967.

Al though the 1985 survey was not quite complete enough, to make any definite conclusion, it certainly does not look as if Cornwall ' s breeding populat ion is substantially greater than it was in 1967.

REMARKS:

In addit ion to the above, single birds were seen in possible nesting habitat at Lye Rock and near Trebarwith St rand.

The species has always been a very scarce breeder in Cornwall , with odd pairs found occasionally amongst herring gull colonies, and in recent years only Gull Rock off Nare Head has had anything other than a single nesting pair.

The total of 6 pairs compares with 8 pairs and possibly another 4 in 1967, but as at least three of the 1967 sites were not covered in 1985 it is possible that the insignificant breeding popula t ion could be about the same.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Hell 's Mou th 604431 one nest on small island May 27th

Mullion Island 661177 one pair June 15th

Pigeon ogo 674142 one nest May 12th

Gull Rock off Nare Head two nests May 12th 5/6 pairs regular here 683131 1876/80 with 10 pairs

1979

Looe Island 254515 one nest June 18th

134

135

Location Birds Present Comments

County border to Bude c.32 pairs

The Sisters 5 nests June 25th 3 here in 1967

Willapark to Dennis P t . , Trebarwith Strand

50 pairs June 25th 53 here in 1967

Tregardock Beach to Por tquin

105 nests June 3rd-5th Dennis P t . to Varley Hd 100 in 1967

Portquin to The Rumps 48 pairs June 5th-26th Varley Hd to the Rumps 30 in 1967

The Rumps to Daymer Bay 27 pairs June 5th-26th

The Mouls 46 pairs June 5th-26th 75 here in 1967

Stepper P t . to Porthmissen

70 pairs June 29th 140 young counted. 130 pairs in 1967

Porthmissen to Cataclews Pt

1 pair June 29th 2 young

Cataclew Pt to Trevose Head

2 0 + pairs June 29th c.40 young seen. 75 pairs here in 1967

Beacon Cove to Spy Cove, Newquay

2 0 + pairs more thought to be nesting on roofs in Newquay than on cliffs

Perranporth to St. Agnes Head

c.44 pairs June 18th-July 7th

699 pairs Cligga Head to Trevaunance Cove in 1967

Por th towan to Por t rea th 5 pairs 15 young seen. Sheep Rock to Por t rea th 65 pairs in 1967

Crane Island 7 pairs May 19th-June 7th

40 pairs here in 1967

Hell 's Mouth to Gwithian

84 nests May 31st 84 pairs here also in 1967

Godrevy Island 87 nests May 31st only 7 0 % of island covered. 150 pairs here in 1967

St. Ives to Pendeen 101 pairs June 15th-25th 95 pairs here in 1967

Gwennap Head 20 nests June 28th

Marazion to Prussia Cove

7 nests all in Cudden Pt area May 7th

The Greeb, Per ranuthnoe 17 nests June 2nd all with eggs or chicks

Hoe Point 11 nests May 4th

Praa Sands to Trewavas Hd 82 pairs June 7th-10th 80 pairs here in 1967

Trewavas Hd to Pare Trammel Cove

47 pairs June 10th

Porthleven 10/15 roof nesting pairs

HERRING GULL

136

REMARKS:

Only 1819 pairs were counted in 1985, and it is thought that this must be a gross understatement of numbers breeding in the county.

In 1967 an estimated 6043 nests were found. Coverage in 1985 was not good enough to really assess the status of this species. Sites with large colonies in 1967

Mullion Island 56 nests counted but 300 nests here in 1967 estimated that c.100 nests present

The Vro, Mullion 53 nests May 12th

Scovarn, Mullion 45 nests May 12th 56 nests here in 1983, to Vellan Head

45 nests May 12th and 60 Mullion to Ugo Dour in 1967

Gue Graze to Kynance 98 nests May 12th this included 13 at Asparagus Island, 62 Gull Rock, and 13 at The Bishop. 113 nests here in 1983 and 64 in this stretch in 1967

Kynance to Polpeor 84 nests May 12 this included 51 on Lion Rock and 27 on nearby cliff. 103 nests were counted along this stretch in 1967

Polpeor to Church Cove, 12 nests Landewednack

Church Cove to Cadgwith 14 nests

Kennack Sands to Helford c.25 nests

Fa lmouth 21 + nests counted but probable populat ion 25/40 pairs

Zone Pt to Nare Head 5 nests June 15th 20 estimated here in 1967 Gull Rock off Nare Head 56 pairs May 26th only counted on 56 pairs May 26th

landward side. 250 pairs here in 1967

Nare Head to the Greeb 45 pairs May 24th and 50 pairs here in 1967 June 19th

The Greeb to D o d m a n 9 pairs April 16th 30 pairs in 1967

Dodman to Gor ran Haven 55 pairs June 7th 40 pairs in 1967

Gor ran Haven to 117 pairs June 5th 25 pairs in 1967 Mevagissey

25 pairs in 1967

Mevagissey to Carlyon 100 pairs May 12th- 100 pairs estimated Bay June 5th Mevagissey to Fowey in

1967

Looe 5 roof nests May 22nd

Looe to Downderry 22 nests May 18th-22nd 50 pairs estimated Looe to Rame Head in 1967

Downderry to Portwrinkle 17 nests May 31st

Portwrinkle to Rame 29 pairs

were not covered at Carters Island (200 nests in 1967), Gulland Rock (200 nests in 1967), Lye Rock (370 nests in 1967), Pentargon to Buckator (380 in 1967) and also most of the area from Trevose Head to Cligga Head (480 nests in 1967).

However, some areas well covered in 1985, and having large numbers in 1967 did show a marked reduction in numbers . This was particularly true of Mullion Island, Gull Rock off Nare Head, and the coast between Cligga Head and Trevaunance Cove.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL

137

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Gull Rock nr. Marsland Mouth 204172

one pair in M a y / J u n e

Pigeon Cove nr. Portquin 926803

one pair June 5th-26th

Downhedge Cove nr. Pentireglaze 948801

one pair June 5th-26th

The Mouls 937816 10+ pairs June 5th and four subsequent occasions.

Only the landward southern side counted. One or two pairs possibly missed on northern side. 5 pairs here in 1967.

The Rumps 932813 one pair June 5th-26th

Pentire Point 925804 one pair June 5th-26th

Polbens Cove nr. St. Agnes Hd. 717518

3 nests June 28th

Bawden Rock 700532 2 pairs probably breeding May 31st and July 6th

3 pairs here in 1967.

Hell's Mouth 606432 one nest on stack May 31st

Godrevy Island 576435 6 nests May 31st Only 7 0 % of island covered from shore. 5 pairs here in 1967.

Zennor Head 448392 one pair June 20th

Boswednack Cliff 439383 one pair June 15th

Treen Cliff 431383 one pair on stack June 15th

Bosigran Cliff 4153668 one pair on stack June 19th

Gwennap head 367215 4 pairs June 28th

The Greeb 570278 2 nests June 2nd

Mullion Island 661176 113 nests May 12th Thought by observer to be a fairly accurate count . Always the counties largest colony, 154 nests here in 1967, 150 in 1969 and 119 in 1983.

REMARKS:

A total of at least 223 pairs in 1985, compared with 261 in 1967. However in 1985, two good sites at Enys Dodnan (31 pairs in 1967) and Gulland Rock (6 pairs in 1967) were not counted. So al though there has been some increase in sites along the south coast particularly at Gull Rock, numbers at the main Cornish colony Mullion Island are rather down, and it is likely that the overall numbers nesting is about the same as in 1967. The dramat ic increase of this species early in this century now appears to have been arrested.

KITTIWAKE

138

The Vro 664175 4 nests May 12th An accurate count. 2 here in 1967 and 2 in 1983.

Gew Graze 672147 and 675144

one nest at each site

Lion Rock 688130 5 nests May 12th An accurate count. 3 here in 1967 and two in 1983.

Terrick 725145 one nest May 20th One here in 1982 and 1983.

Carr icknath Pt . 845320 one nest June 15th

Gull Rock, off Nare H d . 928369

4 0 + pairs May 18th 3-10 here in 1967, but 5 0 + by 1976.

Hemmick Beach 986406 one nest April 25th

The Dodman area 000392 to 005400

c.4 pairs June 7th Observer considers this only fairly accurate count due to vastness of cliffs.

Gor ran Haven 017413 2 + pairs June 7th

Nr. Turbot P t . 026427 2 pairs June 5th

nr. Mevagissey 017446 one pair June 5th one pair here in 1967

Nr. Mevagissey 017451 one pair Apri l -June 5th

Penare P t . 022458 5 + pairs June 5th

Looe Island 254517 4 nests June 18th

Rame Head 420484 1 pair April 27th Displaying, but not seen subsequently.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Tintgel m a p ref. not given 30 nests May 14th New colony

Nr . Bounds Cliff 015813 35 nests June 3rd New colony

Marble Cliffs, Porthmissen 893764

11 adults Aug 1st No breeding noted, but possibly the start of a new colony.

Merope Rocks, Trevose 862766

11 pairs June 29th 12 pairs here 1982/83

139

Huers Hu t , Newquay 805625

400 + pairs June 22nd Colony first noted here in 1973. Rapidly increased in size 160 pairs 1975 to 300/400 by 1980. Remained at 400/500 since then.

Bawden Rock 700532 c.65 pairs June 18th 52 nests here in 1967.

St. Agnes Head 719518 to 709519

c.675 pairs June 18th c.900 nests here in 1967, 847 in 1968 and 500 in 1977.

Nancekuke 680475 and 683475

75 pairs at one site 110 pairs at the other

5 0 + pairs here in 1967, and c.100 in 1984.

Ralph 's Cupboard 645451 122 nests June 15th 3 pairs here in 1967, 10 in 1968 and c.110 in 1984.

Gwennap Head 367215 12 nests June 28th 8 pairs in 1967, c.30 in 1969.

Trevean Cliff 413363 16+ pairs June 19th 116 pairs in 1967, 94 in 1968 and c.75 in 1969.

Greeb Point 398362 4 pairs June 19th 5 pairs in 1967, 8 in 1969

Hoe Point 570278 3 adults May 14th prospecting possible.

Rinsey head (West side) 588270

34 pairs June 7th 79 pairs at Rinsey colony 1967, 198 in 1969, but only 50/75 noted since 1977.

Rinsey Head (East side) 590269

46 pairs June 7th

Rinsey Cove 591269 21 pairs June 7th

Trewavas Head 600265 602265

196 pairs June 10th 40 pairs June 10th

Colony first noted here in 1983, with 178 pairs at the two sites, and 1984 with 215 pairs at the two sites.

The Vro, Mullion 664175

150 pairs June 15th 24 pairs here in 1967, but some years birds use Mullion Island as colony site, hence 90 pairs in 1969, but 230 in 1975 and 266 in 1983.

Gull Rock off Nare Head 927369

136 pairs May 26th Colony only counted from shore so numbers maybe too low. 288 pairs here in 1969.

Manare Point 935389

56 pairs May 24th 30/40 nests here in 1983.

REMARKS:

The known colony at Gamper Cliffs, Lands End (max 34 pairs 1976-84) was not counted in 1985, nor if it still exists, was the colony at Carn les Boel (43 pairs in 1967).

At least 2484 nests /pairs were noted in 1985 compared with 1673 in 1967. The breeding status in the county looks very good with several new colonies since 1967, and indeed two found during the survey. Only the colony at Trevean has shown a significant reduction in numbers with the colonies at Gull Rock off Nare Head, and possibly St. Agnes Head also showing some decline.

GUILLEMOT

140

Gor ran Haven 250/275 pairs Apr i l / June Colony first noted here 017413 to 0154415 in 1973. 200/250 pairs

present 1975/79. The observer considers the figure of 520 pairs quoted in the 1984 Report to be too high.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Island 074906 to 077908

50/60 May 25th-June 15th

65 here in 1967, and 20 / 30 regularly seen here since.

The Sisters 061900 70 birds June 10th and 170 June 25th

65 here in 1967. 60/80 regularly since then with higher numbers some years as 151 in 1969, 186 in 1973 and 115 in 1976.

Nr. Bounds Cliff 015813 7 birds on eggs June 3rd not noted here before

Nr. Tresungers P t . 007813 3 birds possibly nesting June 3rd

not noted here before

Pentireglase 945802 25 on ledges May 4th at least one with egg, 30

present June 9th and 40 June 27th

30 here in 1967, with 3 5 / 50 noted most years since.

T h e M o u l s 937816 max noted 14 birds on nor th side of island May 29th. Estimated that 10 pairs on island

20 ibrds here in 1967, and 30/50 regularly since

Marble Cliffs, Porthmissen 891764

c.5 pairs May 1st, 6 birds seen May 24th and June 29th

None here in 1967, but 5 birds noted in 1975 and 5 pairs in 1983.

Barras Cove, Trevose 858767

7 + on ledges June 22nd 11 between Cataclews Pt and Trevose in 1967, and 10 pairs in 1969.

Cats Cove, Trevose 857768

one pair with egg May 29th

Nr. Trevaunance Cove 718518 to Newdowns Head 709518

c.200 birds June 18th 63 here in 1967

REMARKS:

All the major colonies of 1967 were counted in 1985 with the exception of Carters Rocks, Gulland Rock, the Brisons and the stretch of coast between Boscastle and Pentargon.

The colony between Bosigran and Por theras Cove appears to have gone, but numbers were good at the Sisters and greatly increased since 1967 between Trevaunance Cove and Newdowns Head, and af Bawden Rock.

An estimated number of 895 were present in 1985 as against 768 in 1967. Perhaps with the uncounted colonies included this number may have approached 1000.

Although perhaps one should not be too optimistic on just one years survey results, at least numbers do not appear to have declined since the "Tor rey C a n y o n " summer.

141

Bawden Rock 70532 c.130 birds June 18th 56 here in 1967.

Polbens Cove 717518 8 pairs nesting June 10th

Samphire Island 639448 20 birds counted May 19th and June 7th and the observer considers a similar number probably hidden from view by the take­off and landing frequency

50 birds here in 1967

Hudder Cove 606430 15 birds May 19th-June 22nd

88 birds Deadmans Cove to Hell 's Mouth in 1967

Hell 's Mouth 604429 46 birds April 15th and 42 and 54 counted later in May

Fishing Cove 596429 12+ birds May 4th, 2 pairs May 31st

•

Nr. Navax Point 595432 5 birds May 19th-June 22nd

15 here in 1967

The Vro, Mullion 664175 17 birds May 12th 15 pairs May 19th and 13 birds June 15th

One here in 1967, but 15 with 7 nesting then on nearby Mullion Island, were not noted this year, a l though observer considers them still a possibility but difficult to see from shore.

Gull Rock off Nare Hd . 927369

5 0 + pairs April 28th and May 18th

90 birds with 60 estimated breeding pairs in 1967. Numbers have varied since, but usually 50/75 pairs have been present with 100 pairs estimated in 1977.

RAZORBILL

142

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Islands 074906 and 077908

40 birds April 14th 3 0 + in June

29 here in 1967 then 20 / 50 regularly since with 9 0 + in 1969 and 67 in 1970.

Lye Rock 065899 32 June 22nd 25 here in 1967 and 10/25 here or on the Sisters regularly since.

The Sisters 061900 20 + birds June 25th landward side only counted, c.5 here in 1967

Gull Rock off Trebarwith Strand 039865

2 on cliffs plus 6 on sea June 25th

Dennis Point 045864 1 on sea beneath large cave. Possible breeding site June 25th

Nr. Bounds Cliff 015813 5 nests June 3rd 145 birds here in 1967 and 9 pairs noted 1980.

Nr . Tresungers Point 007813 5 nests June 3rd 27 birds here in 1967.

Pentireglase 945802 8 on ledges May 4th 10/14 pairs regular 1968/82

The Mouls 937816 4 0 + pairs nesting 28 birds here in 1967 and 40/60 birds regularly seen since.

Marble Cliffs, Por thmissen 890764

8 pairs May 1st, 10 on ledges May 24th and one nest Juen 29th

4 birds here in 1967. 10/15 since with 12 pairs nesting 1983.

Barras Cove, Trevose 858767

35 + on ledges June 22nd Only 8 at Trevose area in 1967, but 16 pairs in 1969.

Cats Cove, Trevose 857768

16+ birds May 29th

Nr. Cligga Head 745539 c.10 May 28th

Nr . Trevaunance Cove 719518 to Newdowns H d . 709519

70 birds May 31st and 25 birds June 18th

41 birds here in 1967.

Bawden Rock 700532 20 birds June 18th 45 birds here in 1967.

Nancekuke 682476 6 birds

Western Cove 646453 to The Horse 645452

6 birds May 19th-June 22nd

Samphire Island 640448 8 birds here and on small adjacent island May 19th-June 22nd

23 birds here in 1967.

Crane Island 633441 3 birds May 19th-June 22nd

11 birds here in 1967.

Hudder Cove 606430 15 birds May 19th-June 22nd

REMARKS:

Owing to its nesting sites being largely hidden and less easily seen than Guillemot this is a difficult species to locate as a breeding bird.

The sites of the two largest colonies in 1967 at Gulland Rock and the Brissons were not covered in 1985, so any direct comparison of populat ion is imprudent , however although the numbers at Gull Rock off Nare Head have increased since 1967 and the numbers at the Mouls look good, elsewhere especially in the west of the county numbers have declined generally.

An estimate of 563 birds were present in 1985 compared with about 739 in 1967.

143

Hell 's Mouth 604429 13 birds May 19th-June 22nd

18 birds here in 1967, 20 in 1968 but max only 7 1978/81.

Fishing Cove 596429 9 pairs May 31st

Nr. Navax P t . 594434 8 birds May 19th-June 22nd

38 birds here in 1967.

Trevean Cliff 413363 2 pairs June 19th

Bosigran Cliff Stack 415368

18 birds June 19th with 9 obviously incubating

The Vro, Mullion 664175

2 birds May 12th, 5 pairs May 19th, 3 birds June 15th

4 birds here in 1967.

Gull Rock off Nare Head 927369

40 pairs May 18th and 79 birds May 26th

19 birds here in 1967. 10/20 pairs regular up to 1979, then an increase to as many as 40 pairs in 1981.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Island max. 30 on June 15th Unfortunately not 074906 and 077908 covered as well for the

survey as the site was in 1984, when careful watching produced a total of 53 nest sites in June . 58 birds were here in 1967 and between then and 1985 25/50 have been counted annually, but 93 were seen in 1970 and as few as 12 in 1984.

PUFFIN

REMARKS:

The sad story of the decline of Cornish Puffins was well told by N.R . Phillips writing of the 1967 Survey in the Annual Report of that year.

The reported sightings since, and the result of this survey, serve just to underline the continuing sad fate of the counties populat ion. Numbers at the Mouls and Long and Short Island may appear fairly stable, but they are so small that , after the demise of Lye Rock as a breeding site, one wonders how long they will last.

OYSTERCATCHER

144

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present

County border to Bude present and almost certainly breeding but very sparce. Est imated 3/4 pairs in whole stretch

Pinehaven 990810 5 birds seen and two nests found. One chick seen.

The Rumps area 4 pairs located

Nr . Gunver Head 894770 1 pair June 29th

Porthmissen Bridge 894768 1 pair June 29th, with 3 juveniles

Trevone Bay 878764 1 pair June 29th

St. Cadocks P t . 879757 1 pair June 29th

Marazion to Per ran Sands 1 pair May 7th 532294

1 pair May 7th

Lye Rock 065899 none in 1985 None noted breeding here now since 1981 or possibly even 1979. This was Cornwalls largest colony with 200 still seen in 1967, but numbers fell quickly with max of 60 + in 1970 and 42 in 1971. Only 10/20 were then regular until 1979, with the last two birds being noted on June 20th 1981.

The Sisters 061900 12 birds on sea off here June 26th

Impossible to tell where these birds were from but in view of the above probably Long and Short Islands and not Lye Rock.

The Mouls 937816 well watched from shore May 17th-June 24th. 20 seen from sea June 5th and about 10+ pairs pairs thought to be present. Another observer noted c.15 pairs from the sea July 6th

12 occupied burrows in 1967. Since 1970 10/25 birds have been noted here regularly suggesting a fairly stable, though small populat ion.

Perran Sands to Prussia Cove

4 pairs May 7th

Hoe Pt . 570278 6 birds displaying together some breeding birds or all non-breeders?

Chapel Point 028433 1 pair probably at tempted to breed April 23rd-June 5th.

Looe Island 258516 1 nest June 18th

REMARKS:

Whilst not a seabird, the coastal nesting habitat of this species made it a likely species for a survey whilst the main seabird work was being under taken.

Many non breeders were noted all a round the coast but only the above suspected of breeding.

Not enough information was received to draw any conclusions as to the probable numbers breeding on the Cornish coast, but i t looks probable that more pairs are present than recent records suggest.

Finally, this survey belongs to the people who took part in it. They had to trudge for miles on far from easy cliff paths in a summer that was wet, cold, and generally miserable. The effort was t remendous , and sincere thanks to all of the following for taking part : G .R.J . Adams, C .C . Brown, T. Carne , B. Cave, G. Conway, D .E . Cooke , D. Eva, D.S. Flumm, E. Grace, E & G. Gynn, A . H . J . H a r r o p , D. Hasti low, S. Jackson, D.F . Kelley, R. Lane, M. Lawson, G & G. Mills, P. McCartney, L. Oakes , D. Pilbeam, M. Rayment , C.S . Robbins , L . A . H . Sari, P . G . & D. Terry, D . L . Thomas , M . P . Visick, B.L. Webb , P . W o o d .

Thanks also to those who sent records to the Recorder relating to breeding seabirds. These have all been incorporated into the report of the survey and in some cases have proved most valuable when relating to areas not covered by survey workers.

The interest shown by N . R . Phillips and S.M. Christophers has also been greatly appreciated.

First Annual Report of the Caradon Field and Natural History Club for 1984

Editor S.C. Madge, 2 Church Row, Sheviock, Torpoint , Cornwall , PL11 3EH

My first reaction on seeing this new 71 page quar to- journal land on my desk was one of dismay. Here was yet another publication to add to the increasing number of works regarded as required reading to be squeezed into bulging book shelves and threatening to turn my home into a mini public library. On turning its pages, however, I revised my opinion and decided it had to be fitted in somewhere. After all, unless it increases dramatically in thickness, its 4mm bulk will, after a decade, still only take up roughly the same space as one bound annual volume of British Birds.

In spite of the numerous publciations churned out every year in Cornwall , there is as yet no county journal to receive natural history records other than those concerning birds. Botanists, lepidopterists, and other bug hunters must either send

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145

in their records for filing on card index at the Biological Record Center in Redruth, or communicate their findings to individual enthusiasts within the county or outside it. Without a considerable amount of letter writing, no individual can find out what the overall picture is in the county. It is therefore a great step forward that at least in Ca radon (Cornwall east of Lostwithiel and south of a line from Jamaica Inn to Gunnislake) , naturalists are now blessed with a publication in which to record sightings as diverse as Humming-bi rd H a w k m o t h , Hairy Bird's-foot Trefoil, Emperor Dragonfly, or simply the first butterfly of the year.

The Club was formed in January 1985 to record the rich variety of wildlife throughout the district, and the first Report contains a remarkable list of 1984 records with a few older titbits of interest, such as the rare Bath White butterfly at Lower Tredis, Sheviock, on 14th July 198J. Recorders have been found to deal with the following groups:-1. Lichens, Mosses & Liverworts 1. Flowering Plants & Ferns 3. Seashore Life 4. Grasshoppers & Crickets 5. Dragonflies 6. Butterflies 7. Moths 8. Amphibians & Reptiles 9. Birds 10. Mammals

Of these groups only 3 and 10 are without entries. The Editor is also pleased to receive data on any other groups: diperists, coleopterists, and arachnologists please show yourselves!

By coincidence, at the t ime I received the Report , I was compiling a "periodic t a b l e " of Cornish butterflies gleaned from sources dating back for well over a century. This simple task of listing first and last sightings was proving to be surprisingly incomplete, so I was delighted to find that the Caradon Report had resurrected this ancient past ime and included a list of "Ext reme flight periods of Ca radon butterflies in 1984" . This short list added so many new extreme dates to my own tally, that I straightaway sent in my subscription for membership (£3.25p and 75p for those under 18) as I should hate to miss next year 's Report .

Having sung its praises, don ' t misunderstand me if I say that I fervently hope the Report will have a short life - in its present form. I see the present Report not as a full f ' i m a g o " but as a "La rva l form . My hope is that is geographical confines will soon prove a constraint and frustration to contr ibutors , so that before the waxing and waning of many moons it will be metamorphosed into the long-needed county-wide journa l ready and willing to accept records from Rame and Morwenstow in the east to The Lizard and Land ' s End in the west, or even (and why not?) as far west as Bishop Rock.

In the meant ime, congratulat ions to the Editor and his devoted team of enthusiasts. This must be the start of something even bigger.

R . D . Penhallurick, County Museum,

Truro .

146

REVIEW

SHOREBIRDS:— An identification guide to the waders of the world, by Peter Hayman, John Marchant and Tony Prater.

Published by Croom Helm. 412 pages. 88 colour plates; 214 maps and numerous black and white drawings. Price £19.95p.

This must surely be one of the most extensively publicised bird books of the last decade. It must also be one of the most vaunted and eagerly awaited, coming as it does from the Croom Helm 's table ' that gave us its superb predecessor, 'Seabirds ' . One is bound to ask 'Does the book live up to the pre-publication ba l lyhoo? ' To those who dislike reading book reviews the answer must be an unreserved 'Yes ' .

This is a magnificent volume that is fully worthy of the plaudits and is certainly a very serious contender for the title of 'Best bird book of the year ' .

'Shorebirds ' is the second in what now appears to be a concerted effort by Croom Helm to produce definitive identification guides on various taxonomic groups of birds. 214 species of shorebird (or wader) are described, 72 of which have occurred in the British Isles. Of the remainder, a very small number could conceivably occur here but the majority are distant, sedentary species which are highly unlikely to wander here. A handful of the species described are thought to be either extinct or near extinction but some measure of the books ' authori ty and uptodateness can be gauged by the announcement that the little-known Jerdons Courser, which had not been reliably recorded since 1900, has been rediscovered in its native India, as recently as mid January 1986.

There are a number of brief introductory chapters covering the expected topics including 'How to use the book ' , ' H o w to identify waders ' , 'General notes on families and groups of b i rds ' , 'Conservat ion of wader habitats and species' , ' H o w to study waders ' and 'Notes on the plates ' .

The chapter on identification is particularly enlightening. I found the line illustrations of ambiguous feather conditions such as 'no tched ' , ' edged ' , ' t ipped ' , ' spot ted ' , 'fringed' etc. , very useful. The 'Notes on plates ' chapter described the aims of the illustrations and contains a brief resumee of how the plates were painstakingly prepared.

The 88 plates are, on the whole excellent and a monumenta l t r ibute to the acknowledged artistry of Peter H a y m a n .

Each plate has a blue background and al though the vast majority of them are very easy on the eye, I found a few to be too dark or too bright and thus garish. This had the effect of detracting from the subject matter and is particularly evident on the woodcock pla tes and most frustratingly, the Ringed and Semipalmated Plover plate. Most oi the plates illustrate two or three species, but in some cases, for example Kentish Plover and Dunlin, where there are numerous races, a single species is afforded a whole plate to itself. In general, birds of similar appearance are dealt with together and direct comparisons are made . This is invaluable despite the higgledy-piggledy layout of some of the illustrations on many of the plates.

The birds are shown in a wide variety of poses, bo th on the ground and in flight and where further criteria is required in cases of finer identification mat ters , such as bill length/shape, underwing pat tern etc. , these are very adequately covered.

I was impressed with the stints plates which compare very favourably with other similar plates published recently and certainly the Por t sca tho least sandpiper of Feb /Apr 1986 would have presented few problems with this book in ones ' possession. Facing each plate there is a brief description of the illustration and a distribution map . The placing of the maps here is a definite improvement on 'Seabirds ' , which had the maps together in the rear of the book .

147

The main text has been prepared by John Marchant and Tony Prater over a period of eight years. Despite its conciseness, the text, as one would expect from the au thors , is both authorat ive and lucid.

There are notes on identification, voice, habits , movements , description, age/sex, races, measurements and references. The last section is very useful and used in conjunction with the extensive bibliography provides an easy route to further reading. I also liked the 'habi t s ' section which has replaced the 'Flight, habits and jizz' paragraph used in 'Seabirds ' . Having studied the plates it seems almost inconceivable that any further illustrations would be required, but numerous line drawings are liberally scattered throughout the text.

Two points which will no doubt cause some controversy are the splitting of the two races of Lesser Golden Plover and according them full species status and the use of alien nomenclature in respect of several species. The apparent promotion of the two races of Lesser Golden Plover to American Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominica) and Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva) will no doubt , p rompt many a fortunate twitcher to reach for h is /her pen. The use of such names as Pied Avocet (Avocet) and Red Knot (Knot) amongst others , will no doubt cause some confusion to some less well informed readers and will, I suspect, be less well received.

Apar t from the extensive bibliography already mentioned, there are a number of very useful precis in table form, differentiating between species in difficult groups such as the American dowitchers and the three golden plovers.

Overall this is an absolutely splendid addit ion to every bird watchers library. It is a well bound volume, easy to handle and attractive to look at. Although the price may initially seem high, I feel certain that most birders will consider it a bargain when they discover the wealth of information between the covers.

This book is a must for every birder, not just the wader-watchers and deserves to become 'Best bird book of the year ' .

Stan Christophers

148

THE SOCIETY'S RULES

(Current from 14th April, 1984)

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

Society".

Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be:— (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation.

Rule 3. (Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honora ry Officers; President,

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor , Public Relations Officer, Solicitor, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor , Officer for Youth and Educat ion, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society.

Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership , and any person who has attained his or her 18th bir thday for Full Membership . Junior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society, but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Commit tee or Officers of the Society.

Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a

General Meeting may, upon the proposit ion and seconding by any members , elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Society without regard to the actual membership or non-membership of such person, who is deemed worthy of such election.

Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required.

The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eligible for re­election.

New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Commit tee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4.

The Executive Commit tee shall have authori ty to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person has contravened any requirements contained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Commit tee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4. (Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional

member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members , payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January . But any member who pays the first subscription after 30th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year.

A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members .

Rule 5. (Management) The Secretaries shall keep minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature

as will keep members informed of the Society's activities.

149

The Treasurer shall present a Statement of Accounts at the Annual Meeting each year.

There shall be an Executive Commit tee consisting of the Officers and nine ordinary members . A nominat ion in writing containing the name and address of the member proposed for election to the Executive Commit tee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder mus fhave been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual General Meeting.

This Commit tee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation under taken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society.

The Executive Commit tee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annua l Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Commit tee for more than three consecutive years.

The Executive Commit tee shall delegate five Officers — Chairman, Vice Cha i rman , General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team — to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Society's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Commit tee for confirmation of their actions.

Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary, but not less than twice a

year, one of which shall be the Annua l Meeting. The Executive Commit tee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of

routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the President and Cha i rman .

A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Commit tee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such appliciation to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of Rules may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the

precise alteration has been shown in advance on the Agenda, and that the alteration be passed by a two-thirds majority of those present.

Rule 8. This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor

subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting at which business is t ransacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamat ion or subordinat ion, prior notice must have been given under Rule 7. For the purpose of this Rule, Members may vote by post.

Rule 9. The property and effects of the Society shall be vested in not less than four

members as Trustees to be appointed at a General Meeting. They shall have power to invest money and adopt such measures as may appear to them necessary in the interests of the Society, subject to the approval of the Executive Commit tee . Each Trustee shall remain in office until death, resignation or removal and replacement by a General Meeting. In the event of the death, resignation or removal of any of the Trustees, the Executive Commit tee shall if necessary fill the vacancy subject to confirmation at the next General Meeting.

150

Printed bv St George Printing Works Ltd., Commercial Centre, Wilson Way, Pool Industrial Estate, Redruth, Cornwall Tel. Redruth (0209) 217033

REMARKS:

The known colony at Gamper Cliffs, Lands End (max 34 pairs 1976-84) was not counted in 1985, nor if it still exists, was the colony at Carn les Boel (43 pairs in 1967).

At least 2484 nests /pairs were noted in 1985 compared with 1673 in 1967. The breeding status in the county looks very good with several new colonies since 1967, and indeed two found during the survey. Only the colony at Trevean has shown a significant reduction in numbers with the colonies at Gull Rock off Nare Head, and possibly St. Agnes Head also showing some decline.

GUILLEMOT

140

Gor ran Haven 250/275 pairs Apr i l / June Colony first noted here 017413 to 0154415 in 1973. 200/250 pairs

present 1975/79. The observer considers the figure of 520 pairs quoted in the 1984 Report to be too high.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Island 074906 to 077908

50/60 May 25th-June 15th

65 here in 1967, and 20 / 30 regularly seen here since.

The Sisters 061900 70 birds June 10th and 170 June 25th

65 here in 1967. 60/80 regularly since then with higher numbers some years as 151 in 1969, 186 in 1973 and 115 in 1976.

Nr. Bounds Cliff 015813 7 birds on eggs June 3rd not noted here before

Nr. Tresungers P t . 007813 3 birds possibly nesting June 3rd

not noted here before

Pentireglase 945802 25 on ledges May 4th at least one with egg, 30

present June 9th and 40 June 27th

30 here in 1967, with 3 5 / 50 noted most years since.

T h e M o u l s 937816 max noted 14 birds on nor th side of island May 29th. Estimated that 10 pairs on island

20 ibrds here in 1967, and 30/50 regularly since

Marble Cliffs, Porthmissen 891764

c.5 pairs May 1st, 6 birds seen May 24th and June 29th

None here in 1967, but 5 birds noted in 1975 and 5 pairs in 1983.

Barras Cove, Trevose 858767

7 + on ledges June 22nd 11 between Cataclews Pt and Trevose in 1967, and 10 pairs in 1969.

Cats Cove, Trevose 857768

one pair with egg May 29th

Nr. Trevaunance Cove 718518 to Newdowns Head 709518

c.200 birds June 18th 63 here in 1967

REMARKS:

All the major colonies of 1967 were counted in 1985 with the exception of Carters Rocks, Gulland Rock, the Brisons and the stretch of coast between Boscastle and Pentargon.

The colony between Bosigran and Por theras Cove appears to have gone, but numbers were good at the Sisters and greatly increased since 1967 between Trevaunance Cove and Newdowns Head, and af Bawden Rock.

An estimated number of 895 were present in 1985 as against 768 in 1967. Perhaps with the uncounted colonies included this number may have approached 1000.

Although perhaps one should not be too optimistic on just one years survey results, at least numbers do not appear to have declined since the "Tor rey C a n y o n " summer.

141

Bawden Rock 70532 c.130 birds June 18th 56 here in 1967.

Polbens Cove 717518 8 pairs nesting June 10th

Samphire Island 639448 20 birds counted May 19th and June 7th and the observer considers a similar number probably hidden from view by the take­off and landing frequency

50 birds here in 1967

Hudder Cove 606430 15 birds May 19th-June 22nd

88 birds Deadmans Cove to Hell 's Mouth in 1967

Hell 's Mouth 604429 46 birds April 15th and 42 and 54 counted later in May

Fishing Cove 596429 12+ birds May 4th, 2 pairs May 31st

•

Nr. Navax Point 595432 5 birds May 19th-June 22nd

15 here in 1967

The Vro, Mullion 664175 17 birds May 12th 15 pairs May 19th and 13 birds June 15th

One here in 1967, but 15 with 7 nesting then on nearby Mullion Island, were not noted this year, a l though observer considers them still a possibility but difficult to see from shore.

Gull Rock off Nare Hd . 927369

5 0 + pairs April 28th and May 18th

90 birds with 60 estimated breeding pairs in 1967. Numbers have varied since, but usually 50/75 pairs have been present with 100 pairs estimated in 1977.

RAZORBILL

142

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Islands 074906 and 077908

40 birds April 14th 3 0 + in June

29 here in 1967 then 20 / 50 regularly since with 9 0 + in 1969 and 67 in 1970.

Lye Rock 065899 32 June 22nd 25 here in 1967 and 10/25 here or on the Sisters regularly since.

The Sisters 061900 20 + birds June 25th landward side only counted, c.5 here in 1967

Gull Rock off Trebarwith Strand 039865

2 on cliffs plus 6 on sea June 25th

Dennis Point 045864 1 on sea beneath large cave. Possible breeding site June 25th

Nr. Bounds Cliff 015813 5 nests June 3rd 145 birds here in 1967 and 9 pairs noted 1980.

Nr . Tresungers Point 007813 5 nests June 3rd 27 birds here in 1967.

Pentireglase 945802 8 on ledges May 4th 10/14 pairs regular 1968/82

The Mouls 937816 4 0 + pairs nesting 28 birds here in 1967 and 40/60 birds regularly seen since.

Marble Cliffs, Por thmissen 890764

8 pairs May 1st, 10 on ledges May 24th and one nest Juen 29th

4 birds here in 1967. 10/15 since with 12 pairs nesting 1983.

Barras Cove, Trevose 858767

35 + on ledges June 22nd Only 8 at Trevose area in 1967, but 16 pairs in 1969.

Cats Cove, Trevose 857768

16+ birds May 29th

Nr. Cligga Head 745539 c.10 May 28th

Nr . Trevaunance Cove 719518 to Newdowns H d . 709519

70 birds May 31st and 25 birds June 18th

41 birds here in 1967.

Bawden Rock 700532 20 birds June 18th 45 birds here in 1967.

Nancekuke 682476 6 birds

Western Cove 646453 to The Horse 645452

6 birds May 19th-June 22nd

Samphire Island 640448 8 birds here and on small adjacent island May 19th-June 22nd

23 birds here in 1967.

Crane Island 633441 3 birds May 19th-June 22nd

11 birds here in 1967.

Hudder Cove 606430 15 birds May 19th-June 22nd

REMARKS:

Owing to its nesting sites being largely hidden and less easily seen than Guillemot this is a difficult species to locate as a breeding bird.

The sites of the two largest colonies in 1967 at Gulland Rock and the Brissons were not covered in 1985, so any direct comparison of populat ion is imprudent , however although the numbers at Gull Rock off Nare Head have increased since 1967 and the numbers at the Mouls look good, elsewhere especially in the west of the county numbers have declined generally.

An estimate of 563 birds were present in 1985 compared with about 739 in 1967.

143

Hell 's Mouth 604429 13 birds May 19th-June 22nd

18 birds here in 1967, 20 in 1968 but max only 7 1978/81.

Fishing Cove 596429 9 pairs May 31st

Nr. Navax P t . 594434 8 birds May 19th-June 22nd

38 birds here in 1967.

Trevean Cliff 413363 2 pairs June 19th

Bosigran Cliff Stack 415368

18 birds June 19th with 9 obviously incubating

The Vro, Mullion 664175

2 birds May 12th, 5 pairs May 19th, 3 birds June 15th

4 birds here in 1967.

Gull Rock off Nare Head 927369

40 pairs May 18th and 79 birds May 26th

19 birds here in 1967. 10/20 pairs regular up to 1979, then an increase to as many as 40 pairs in 1981.

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Long and Short Island max. 30 on June 15th Unfortunately not 074906 and 077908 covered as well for the

survey as the site was in 1984, when careful watching produced a total of 53 nest sites in June . 58 birds were here in 1967 and between then and 1985 25/50 have been counted annually, but 93 were seen in 1970 and as few as 12 in 1984.

PUFFIN

REMARKS:

The sad story of the decline of Cornish Puffins was well told by N.R . Phillips writing of the 1967 Survey in the Annual Report of that year.

The reported sightings since, and the result of this survey, serve just to underline the continuing sad fate of the counties populat ion. Numbers at the Mouls and Long and Short Island may appear fairly stable, but they are so small that , after the demise of Lye Rock as a breeding site, one wonders how long they will last.

OYSTERCATCHER

144

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present

County border to Bude present and almost certainly breeding but very sparce. Est imated 3/4 pairs in whole stretch

Pinehaven 990810 5 birds seen and two nests found. One chick seen.

The Rumps area 4 pairs located

Nr . Gunver Head 894770 1 pair June 29th

Porthmissen Bridge 894768 1 pair June 29th, with 3 juveniles

Trevone Bay 878764 1 pair June 29th

St. Cadocks P t . 879757 1 pair June 29th

Marazion to Per ran Sands 1 pair May 7th 532294

1 pair May 7th

Lye Rock 065899 none in 1985 None noted breeding here now since 1981 or possibly even 1979. This was Cornwalls largest colony with 200 still seen in 1967, but numbers fell quickly with max of 60 + in 1970 and 42 in 1971. Only 10/20 were then regular until 1979, with the last two birds being noted on June 20th 1981.

The Sisters 061900 12 birds on sea off here June 26th

Impossible to tell where these birds were from but in view of the above probably Long and Short Islands and not Lye Rock.

The Mouls 937816 well watched from shore May 17th-June 24th. 20 seen from sea June 5th and about 10+ pairs pairs thought to be present. Another observer noted c.15 pairs from the sea July 6th

12 occupied burrows in 1967. Since 1970 10/25 birds have been noted here regularly suggesting a fairly stable, though small populat ion.

Perran Sands to Prussia Cove

4 pairs May 7th

Hoe Pt . 570278 6 birds displaying together some breeding birds or all non-breeders?

Chapel Point 028433 1 pair probably at tempted to breed April 23rd-June 5th.

Looe Island 258516 1 nest June 18th

REMARKS:

Whilst not a seabird, the coastal nesting habitat of this species made it a likely species for a survey whilst the main seabird work was being under taken.

Many non breeders were noted all a round the coast but only the above suspected of breeding.

Not enough information was received to draw any conclusions as to the probable numbers breeding on the Cornish coast, but i t looks probable that more pairs are present than recent records suggest.

Finally, this survey belongs to the people who took part in it. They had to trudge for miles on far from easy cliff paths in a summer that was wet, cold, and generally miserable. The effort was t remendous , and sincere thanks to all of the following for taking part : G .R.J . Adams, C .C . Brown, T. Carne , B. Cave, G. Conway, D .E . Cooke , D. Eva, D.S. Flumm, E. Grace, E & G. Gynn, A . H . J . H a r r o p , D. Hasti low, S. Jackson, D.F . Kelley, R. Lane, M. Lawson, G & G. Mills, P. McCartney, L. Oakes , D. Pilbeam, M. Rayment , C.S . Robbins , L . A . H . Sari, P . G . & D. Terry, D . L . Thomas , M . P . Visick, B.L. Webb , P . W o o d .

Thanks also to those who sent records to the Recorder relating to breeding seabirds. These have all been incorporated into the report of the survey and in some cases have proved most valuable when relating to areas not covered by survey workers.

The interest shown by N . R . Phillips and S.M. Christophers has also been greatly appreciated.

First Annual Report of the Caradon Field and Natural History Club for 1984

Editor S.C. Madge, 2 Church Row, Sheviock, Torpoint , Cornwall , PL11 3EH

My first reaction on seeing this new 71 page quar to- journal land on my desk was one of dismay. Here was yet another publication to add to the increasing number of works regarded as required reading to be squeezed into bulging book shelves and threatening to turn my home into a mini public library. On turning its pages, however, I revised my opinion and decided it had to be fitted in somewhere. After all, unless it increases dramatically in thickness, its 4mm bulk will, after a decade, still only take up roughly the same space as one bound annual volume of British Birds.

In spite of the numerous publciations churned out every year in Cornwall , there is as yet no county journal to receive natural history records other than those concerning birds. Botanists, lepidopterists, and other bug hunters must either send

REVIEW

145

in their records for filing on card index at the Biological Record Center in Redruth, or communicate their findings to individual enthusiasts within the county or outside it. Without a considerable amount of letter writing, no individual can find out what the overall picture is in the county. It is therefore a great step forward that at least in Ca radon (Cornwall east of Lostwithiel and south of a line from Jamaica Inn to Gunnislake) , naturalists are now blessed with a publication in which to record sightings as diverse as Humming-bi rd H a w k m o t h , Hairy Bird's-foot Trefoil, Emperor Dragonfly, or simply the first butterfly of the year.

The Club was formed in January 1985 to record the rich variety of wildlife throughout the district, and the first Report contains a remarkable list of 1984 records with a few older titbits of interest, such as the rare Bath White butterfly at Lower Tredis, Sheviock, on 14th July 198J. Recorders have been found to deal with the following groups:-1. Lichens, Mosses & Liverworts 1. Flowering Plants & Ferns 3. Seashore Life 4. Grasshoppers & Crickets 5. Dragonflies 6. Butterflies 7. Moths 8. Amphibians & Reptiles 9. Birds 10. Mammals

Of these groups only 3 and 10 are without entries. The Editor is also pleased to receive data on any other groups: diperists, coleopterists, and arachnologists please show yourselves!

By coincidence, at the t ime I received the Report , I was compiling a "periodic t a b l e " of Cornish butterflies gleaned from sources dating back for well over a century. This simple task of listing first and last sightings was proving to be surprisingly incomplete, so I was delighted to find that the Caradon Report had resurrected this ancient past ime and included a list of "Ext reme flight periods of Ca radon butterflies in 1984" . This short list added so many new extreme dates to my own tally, that I straightaway sent in my subscription for membership (£3.25p and 75p for those under 18) as I should hate to miss next year 's Report .

Having sung its praises, don ' t misunderstand me if I say that I fervently hope the Report will have a short life - in its present form. I see the present Report not as a full f ' i m a g o " but as a "La rva l form . My hope is that is geographical confines will soon prove a constraint and frustration to contr ibutors , so that before the waxing and waning of many moons it will be metamorphosed into the long-needed county-wide journa l ready and willing to accept records from Rame and Morwenstow in the east to The Lizard and Land ' s End in the west, or even (and why not?) as far west as Bishop Rock.

In the meant ime, congratulat ions to the Editor and his devoted team of enthusiasts. This must be the start of something even bigger.

R . D . Penhallurick, County Museum,

Truro .

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REVIEW

SHOREBIRDS:— An identification guide to the waders of the world, by Peter Hayman, John Marchant and Tony Prater.

Published by Croom Helm. 412 pages. 88 colour plates; 214 maps and numerous black and white drawings. Price £19.95p.

This must surely be one of the most extensively publicised bird books of the last decade. It must also be one of the most vaunted and eagerly awaited, coming as it does from the Croom Helm 's table ' that gave us its superb predecessor, 'Seabirds ' . One is bound to ask 'Does the book live up to the pre-publication ba l lyhoo? ' To those who dislike reading book reviews the answer must be an unreserved 'Yes ' .

This is a magnificent volume that is fully worthy of the plaudits and is certainly a very serious contender for the title of 'Best bird book of the year ' .

'Shorebirds ' is the second in what now appears to be a concerted effort by Croom Helm to produce definitive identification guides on various taxonomic groups of birds. 214 species of shorebird (or wader) are described, 72 of which have occurred in the British Isles. Of the remainder, a very small number could conceivably occur here but the majority are distant, sedentary species which are highly unlikely to wander here. A handful of the species described are thought to be either extinct or near extinction but some measure of the books ' authori ty and uptodateness can be gauged by the announcement that the little-known Jerdons Courser, which had not been reliably recorded since 1900, has been rediscovered in its native India, as recently as mid January 1986.

There are a number of brief introductory chapters covering the expected topics including 'How to use the book ' , ' H o w to identify waders ' , 'General notes on families and groups of b i rds ' , 'Conservat ion of wader habitats and species' , ' H o w to study waders ' and 'Notes on the plates ' .

The chapter on identification is particularly enlightening. I found the line illustrations of ambiguous feather conditions such as 'no tched ' , ' edged ' , ' t ipped ' , ' spot ted ' , 'fringed' etc. , very useful. The 'Notes on plates ' chapter described the aims of the illustrations and contains a brief resumee of how the plates were painstakingly prepared.

The 88 plates are, on the whole excellent and a monumenta l t r ibute to the acknowledged artistry of Peter H a y m a n .

Each plate has a blue background and al though the vast majority of them are very easy on the eye, I found a few to be too dark or too bright and thus garish. This had the effect of detracting from the subject matter and is particularly evident on the woodcock pla tes and most frustratingly, the Ringed and Semipalmated Plover plate. Most oi the plates illustrate two or three species, but in some cases, for example Kentish Plover and Dunlin, where there are numerous races, a single species is afforded a whole plate to itself. In general, birds of similar appearance are dealt with together and direct comparisons are made . This is invaluable despite the higgledy-piggledy layout of some of the illustrations on many of the plates.

The birds are shown in a wide variety of poses, bo th on the ground and in flight and where further criteria is required in cases of finer identification mat ters , such as bill length/shape, underwing pat tern etc. , these are very adequately covered.

I was impressed with the stints plates which compare very favourably with other similar plates published recently and certainly the Por t sca tho least sandpiper of Feb /Apr 1986 would have presented few problems with this book in ones ' possession. Facing each plate there is a brief description of the illustration and a distribution map . The placing of the maps here is a definite improvement on 'Seabirds ' , which had the maps together in the rear of the book .

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The main text has been prepared by John Marchant and Tony Prater over a period of eight years. Despite its conciseness, the text, as one would expect from the au thors , is both authorat ive and lucid.

There are notes on identification, voice, habits , movements , description, age/sex, races, measurements and references. The last section is very useful and used in conjunction with the extensive bibliography provides an easy route to further reading. I also liked the 'habi t s ' section which has replaced the 'Flight, habits and jizz' paragraph used in 'Seabirds ' . Having studied the plates it seems almost inconceivable that any further illustrations would be required, but numerous line drawings are liberally scattered throughout the text.

Two points which will no doubt cause some controversy are the splitting of the two races of Lesser Golden Plover and according them full species status and the use of alien nomenclature in respect of several species. The apparent promotion of the two races of Lesser Golden Plover to American Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominica) and Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva) will no doubt , p rompt many a fortunate twitcher to reach for h is /her pen. The use of such names as Pied Avocet (Avocet) and Red Knot (Knot) amongst others , will no doubt cause some confusion to some less well informed readers and will, I suspect, be less well received.

Apar t from the extensive bibliography already mentioned, there are a number of very useful precis in table form, differentiating between species in difficult groups such as the American dowitchers and the three golden plovers.

Overall this is an absolutely splendid addit ion to every bird watchers library. It is a well bound volume, easy to handle and attractive to look at. Although the price may initially seem high, I feel certain that most birders will consider it a bargain when they discover the wealth of information between the covers.

This book is a must for every birder, not just the wader-watchers and deserves to become 'Best bird book of the year ' .

Stan Christophers

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THE SOCIETY'S RULES

(Current from 14th April, 1984)

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

Society".

Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be:— (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation.

Rule 3. (Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honora ry Officers; President,

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor , Public Relations Officer, Solicitor, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor , Officer for Youth and Educat ion, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society.

Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership , and any person who has attained his or her 18th bir thday for Full Membership . Junior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society, but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Commit tee or Officers of the Society.

Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a

General Meeting may, upon the proposit ion and seconding by any members , elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Society without regard to the actual membership or non-membership of such person, who is deemed worthy of such election.

Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required.

The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eligible for re­election.

New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Commit tee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4.

The Executive Commit tee shall have authori ty to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person has contravened any requirements contained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Commit tee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4. (Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional

member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members , payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January . But any member who pays the first subscription after 30th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year.

A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members .

Rule 5. (Management) The Secretaries shall keep minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature

as will keep members informed of the Society's activities.

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The Treasurer shall present a Statement of Accounts at the Annual Meeting each year.

There shall be an Executive Commit tee consisting of the Officers and nine ordinary members . A nominat ion in writing containing the name and address of the member proposed for election to the Executive Commit tee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder mus fhave been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual General Meeting.

This Commit tee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation under taken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society.

The Executive Commit tee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annua l Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Commit tee for more than three consecutive years.

The Executive Commit tee shall delegate five Officers — Chairman, Vice Cha i rman , General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team — to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Society's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Commit tee for confirmation of their actions.

Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary, but not less than twice a

year, one of which shall be the Annua l Meeting. The Executive Commit tee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of

routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the President and Cha i rman .

A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Commit tee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such appliciation to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of Rules may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the

precise alteration has been shown in advance on the Agenda, and that the alteration be passed by a two-thirds majority of those present.

Rule 8. This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor

subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting at which business is t ransacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamat ion or subordinat ion, prior notice must have been given under Rule 7. For the purpose of this Rule, Members may vote by post.

Rule 9. The property and effects of the Society shall be vested in not less than four

members as Trustees to be appointed at a General Meeting. They shall have power to invest money and adopt such measures as may appear to them necessary in the interests of the Society, subject to the approval of the Executive Commit tee . Each Trustee shall remain in office until death, resignation or removal and replacement by a General Meeting. In the event of the death, resignation or removal of any of the Trustees, the Executive Commit tee shall if necessary fill the vacancy subject to confirmation at the next General Meeting.

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