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THE WEST MIDLAND BIRD REPORT

1 9 6 8 N o . 3 5

A Kestrel at nesting site by S. C. Porter.

The f ront cover is a study by S. C. Porter of a Redpoll, a species which is expanding its breeding range in the West Midlands.

Price Seven Shillings and Sixpence

THE

WEST M I D L A N D

BIRD REPORT

No. 35

1968

BEING THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE WEST MIDLANDS BIRD CLUB FOR 1968 ON THE BIRDS OF WARWICKSHIRE,

WORCESTERSHIRE AND STAFFORDSHIRE

CONTENTS Page

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 3

EDITOR'S REPORT 3

SECRETARY'S REPORT. . 4

TREASURER'S REPORT 8

FIELD MEETINGS REPORT . 8

R I N G I N G SECRETARY'S REPORT 8

T H E BIRDS OF A SUBURBAN GARDEN 10

B I R D S O F S T A F F O R D S H I R E 1 9 6 2 (LORD AND BLAKE)

RECENT ADDITIONS 12

CLASSIFIED NOTES 14

RECOVERIES IN 1967-68 O F BIRDS R I N G E D IN THE WMBC AREA 56

RECOVERIES IN WMBC AREA OF BIRDS RINGED

ELSEWHERE 58

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE O F MIGRANTS . 59

KEY TO CONTRIBUTORS 64

F INANCIAL STATEMENT 66

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE, 1969 President: THE LORD HURCOMJB, G . C . B . , K.B.E. Vice-Presidents: A. J. HARTHAN, Dovers Cottage, Weston

Subedge, Chipping Camden. C. A. NORR1S, Clent House, Clent, Worcester-

shire. Chairman: A. T. CLAY, 'Ardenshaw,' Gentleman's Lane, Ullenhall,

Warwickshire. Editor: J. LORD, ' Orduna,' 155 Tamworth Road, Sutton Cold-

field. Treasurer: K. H. THOMAS, ' Beechcroft,' 34 Froxmere Close,

Crowle, Worcestershire. Field Meetings Secretary: A. F. JACOBS, 46 Bernard Road,

Birmingham 17. Assistant Secretary: J. SEARS, 21 Lynbrook Close, Hollywood,

Worcestershire. Ringing Secretary: C. D. T. M1NTON, 65 St. John's Hill, Shenstonc,

Lichfield. Conservation Secretary: G. C. LAMBOURNE, Cottage Farm,

Ipsley, Redditch. Branch Representatives:

Kidderminster: L. R. BAYES, 23 Woodland Avenue, Sweet-pool Lane, West Hagley, Worcestershire.

Stafford: F. C. GR1BBLE, 22 Rickerscote Avenue, Rickerscote, Staffordshire.

Committee: A. R. M. Blake, R. J. C. Blewitt, K. I. Darlow, J. A. Hardman, M. J. Inskip, E. Watterson.

EDITOR'S REPORT The outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease which restricted bird-

watching in the concluding months of 1967 continued unabated throughout the early part of 1968. There was no access to several of the most important reservoirs and this factor must be kept in mind when comparing duck numbers, for example, with earlier years. The fact that the rainfall over England and Wales during the six months April to September was the greatest since 1931 was another factor which tended to limit bird-watching.

Most of the earlier summer migrants appeared around the average dates but all those usually arriving in the last week of April or the beginning of May were in general at least a week early. One oddity was the fact that House-Martins were recorded in several areas on March 31st nearly a week ahead of the first Swallow.

The partial draining of Belvide Reservoir for repairs gave an unexpected opportunity for the Little Ringed Plover to nest there.

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JLn the autumn when the water level returned to normal, submerging the copious growth of weeds, unprecedented numbers of ducks gathered there presumably attracted by good feeding. Totals of up to 4,000 were estimated.

The highlights amongst the records were five which constituted not only first appearances for the counties concerned but also for the Club's area. These were a Blue-winged Teal, believed wild, at Upton Warren, a Black-winged Stilt at Belvide, a Caspian Tern at Belvide, a Nutcracker at Burton-upon-Trent, and a Savi's Warbler at Brandon Marsh.

Divers appeared again after an absence of two years; a Storm-Petrel was seen at Bewdley; a White-eyed Pochard at Bittcll; a Purple Sandpiper at Belvide; a Temminck's Stint at Cannock Reservoir; and a Firecrest in Sutton Park. Several Wryneck records in September coincided with the east coast invasion and an unusual wintering record was that of Turtle-Doves at Sutton Coldfield. It was very much a Fieldfare and a Brambling ' year ' but not a Quail, Waxwing or Crossbill ' year '.

Garganey, Hobby, Long-eared Owl, Short-eared Owl and Black Redstart all bred in the area. The Twite which was re-discovered as a breeding species in 1967 consolidated its position and the Redpoll and Corn-Bunting continued to extend their breeding ranges.

The area continues to be plagued with feral birds and ' escapes ' and it is now impossible, for example, to assess whether there are any genuine records of wild Grey-Lag Geese or of Barnacle Geese.

J. LORD.

SECRETARY'S REPORT Indoor Meetings

The Club is again indebted to the Museum authorities for the use of their fine, lecture room and for the unrivalled facilities of projection which are made available to us. The display board which has been a feature of our meetings over the last twelve months is another example of the aid which is so gladly given and in this particular respect we would thank Mr. P. Hanney, Keeper of the Natural History Department and his staff for their help and assistance in preparing the displays and for the use of specimens from the museum collection. Our programme of indoor meetings for 1968 was the product of the combined efforts of a newly formed sub-committee comprised of M. J. Jnskip, J. Sears and A. J. Richards. Mr. Inskip was responsible for the arrangements ensuring the right speaker arrived at the right time. Audiences of 200 or more are now the accepted pattern and during the year the following speakers contributed to our knowledge and entertainment:

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January, R. A. O. Hickling on4 The Social Behaviour of Birds '. February, R. J. C. Blewitt on ' Birds of the Wyre Forest and the River Dee ' . April, G. L. Atkinson-Willes on ' Wildfowl Counts May, J. A. Hardman on ' Birds of Mal ta ' . October, Dr. Bruce Campbell on 'Scotland Anyone?' . November, W. Condry on 'A Naturalist in Wales '.

The A.G.M. was held in March and at our December meeting a full house was delighted by the R.S.P.B. films ' Call of the Running Tide ', ' Ripple in the Reeds ' and ' Lune Valley '.

Bulletins Most bulletins in 1968 ran to three or four pages each issue,

though those of the earlier part of the year were less in content due to the foot and mouth epidemic which limited watching, and consequently the number of.records sent in. Over the year almost 150 members contributed to the bulletin, averaging 36 contributors for each of the ten months in which bulletins were issued.

1968 saw a change in the style of the bulletin heading from that which had been familiar to members over the last 14 years, since printed bulletins heading were first introduced by Mr. C. A. Norris in 1954. The new styling introduced in July has been used on other Club stationery, our new prospectus and programme card.

Legislation in 1968 One of the most important events of 1968 was surely the

Protection of Birds Act 1967 which became law on 14th January. This new law amended and extended the Protection of Birds Act 1954 and additionally made it an offence for anyone to wilfully disturb any wild birds included in Schedule I while on or near its nest.

This bill required the introductions of a licensing system for ringers and bird photographers which would guarantee the safety and welfare of the bird being maintained relative to these pursuits.

On May 1st, another piece of legislation of interest to the ornithologist came on to the statute books, namely the Firearms Act which made it illegal to possess a shotgun without a valid certificate. As far as the bird watcher is concerned it is to be hoped this law will reduce the illegal and indiscriminate shooting of wild birds at such places in our area as Cannock, where in the past shot birds have been reported with disturbing regularity. A third piece of legislation of consequence to naturalists was the Countryside Act which came into force on 3rd August. As a continuation and extension of the National Parks Act of 1949 the act was in essence an attempt to strike a balance between the demands of a growing urban population who needed the country for recreation, agriculture, and a need to conserve the countryside. An interesting aspect of this new law is that statutory water undertakings and the forestry commission have increased powers to provide for recreation on

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reservoirs and in forests. The Blithfield Bird Watching scheme is, of course, an example of an arrangement which can be made, and it is hoped the bill will lead to further facilities for natural history study at other reservoirs.

Blithfield Reservoir Permit Scheme 1968 was the first complete year of the Blithfield Birdwatching

permit scheme and in this first experimental year 132 permits were issued to individuals and visits were arranged for organised parties from the Shropshire Ornithological Society, Rugeley Field Club, The Leicestershire and Rutland Ornithological Society and The West Midland Bird Club.

As already mentioned the foot and mouth epidemic restricted visits to this reservoir until April, but from then onwards many permit holders took advantage of the first rate bird watching facilities afforded there, including eight new observation huts. In December experimental cannon netting trials were carried out by Dr. Minton and a limited nest box scheme in Stansley Wood was the beginnings of what it is hoped will be more extensive attempts to study and to encourage nesting birds at Blithfield. The help and encouragement of The South Staffordshire Waterworks Company is greatly appreciated and this Club looks forward to even closer collaboration in the field on conservation at what is certainly one of the finest and most ornithologically important inland waters in the country.

Belvide At Belvide work to the sluice gates continued during 1968 and

the subsequent low water levels at this reservoir attracted many interesting birds, and needless to say, bird watchers, as the number of permits issued in 1968 again exceeded 100. Permits for organised parties to this reservoir were issued to The South Staffordshire Naturalists Society, The Young Ornithologists Club and Warwick Natural History Society, during the year.

Foot and Mouth The worst outbreak of foot and mouth disease ever experienced

in Britain which began in October 1967 continued into 1968 and it was not until April of that year all areas were declared free from infection. The three counties were seriously affected and normal country life virtually came to a standstill. In view of the danger of spreading infection, members of this Club and others who use the countryside for recreational purposes were asked not to go out bird watching and to stay away from the countryside in general.

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10 Km. Square Breeding Bird Survey During 1968 The British Trust for Ornithology Breeding Bird

Survey commenced on its five year plan of operation, the culmina-tion of which, will result in an Atlas of British Breeding Birds which it is expected will be produced in the middle 70s. This society can take credit for the fact its own survey of 1966-1967 helped the B.T.O. to decide that a project on a national scale would be feasible, and also that the system employed by The West Midland Bird Club is basically that adopted for The National Survey. Due to the overlap of our own survey in 1968, this Club did not participate to any great degree in the opening year of the B.T.O. programme, but used the season to complete and tidy up its own survey. The information we have obtained in the last three years has now been analysed and in the latter part of 1969 will be published in book form. All those members who spent so much time in obtaining data for this survey in 1966, 1967 and 1968 are thanked for their efforts and it is hoped that all these very experienced ' survey workers ' will assist in the ensuing years with the B.T.O. scheme.

Stafford Branch During the 1967-'68 winter season the branch extended its

meetings programme to include Stoke-on-Trent and regular meetings there have undoubtedly contributed to increased membership in the north of the county.

Monthly meetings continued to be held in Stafford and included the showing of the R.S.P.B. film ' Birds of Strathspey '.

A full field meeting programme was also engaged upon during 1968 which were mainly to areas of interest in the county.

From April onwards it was arranged for the Stafford Branch bulletin to be sent out with the parent club bulletin to all West Midland Bird Club members residing in Staffordshire. This arrangement obviated selected mailing and has meant considerable, savings in postage.

In 1968 the branch were concerned with the nest box scheme in the woodland around Blithfield which it is hoped will be enlarged next year.

Kidderminster Branch The Kidderminster branch continues to encourage and

stimulate ornitholgical interest in that area, offering a varied and interesting programme of indoor and field meetings to suit local requirements. In particular in 1968 branch members were actively concerned with the Club's nest box scheme in the Wyre Forest and their help in this respect is appreciated.

A . J . RICHARDS.

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TREASURER'S REPORT The 1968 accounts show an excess of income over expenditure

of £50 2s. 1 Id. This total is misleading in two ways: it includes £50 from the Town Hall Film Show in November, 1967, and also a donation of £10 towards the publication of an Atlas of Birds of the West Midlands. Thus there would normally have been a slight deficit on the year.

As expected costs rose appreciably—expenditure on Bulletins was much increased in spite of the small editions at the beginning of the year when ' foot and mouth ' was prevalent.

Blithfield Reservoir permits were issued in late 1967 and were valid until the end of 1968. This explains the decreased income and expenditure under the heading of ' Reservoirs '.

Covenanted subscriptions again increased. This year the sum received from the inland revenue was £53 18s. 75 members (or members and wives) covenanted their subscriptions and nine more will be doing so in 1969.

There was an impressive increase in membership from 829 to 891. During the year 39 members resigned and 55 members were removed from the mailing list when, after reminders, their subscrip-tions remained unpaid. K. H. THOMAS.

FIELD MEETINGS SECRETARY'S REPORT Despite two cancellations caused by the foot and mouth

epidemic a busy programme of field meetings has been held. Club parties spent week-ends at Aberystwyth and Hunstanton

and day trips were made to the reservoirs at Bittell, Belvide, Blith-field and Gailey, the Lickeys, Westwood Park, Wyre Forest, Cannock Chase, Slimbridge, the Ludlow area, the Long Mynd and the Dee Estuary.

In expressing gratitude to the landowners concerned we should especially mention the water authorities whose reservoirs in the area remain peaceful refuges for bird life and thus enable large numbers of birdwatchers to study so great a variety of waterside birds. A. F. JACOBS.

RINGING SECRETARY'S REPORT 1968 was a rather less eventful year than usual as far as ringing

activities in the West Midland Bird Club area are concerned. This was partly because of the restrictions associated with the foot and mouth epidemic in the early part of the year, but also in part due to the considerable activities carried out by West Midland Bird Club members outside the area, in particular their wader ringing

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activities on the Wash and latterly in Morecambe Bay also. Never-theless all the existing major ringing projects were actively pursued during the year and several new activities commenced.

The first paper to be published on the eight year old Mute Swan study carried out in South Staffordshire was published in the 1968 edition of the journal " Wild fowl " (used to be called the Wild fowl Trust Annual Report). The paper presented the results of the pairing and breeding aspects of the study and will be followed in later years by other papers covering the movements and composition of the non-breeding flocks and their moulting habits. The Canada Goose study which has been going on for the last four years was extended in 1968 to counties bordering the West Midland Bird Club area and a total of nearly 1,000 Canada Geese were caught during one weekend. The first long distance movements to be recorded by the study were of two birds which were ringed whilst moulting at Kirby Lonsdale, Westmorland, during 1967 and were recaught in the Tritiford Park, Birmingham flock during the 1968 moulting season. Otherwise the study has so far shown that the Canada Geese do not in general move very far, the majority staying in the same flock throughout the year and not moving more than about 20 miles from their moulting area.

Although the national Sand Martin enquiry has now finished, ringing of this species at colonies in particular is still continuing and the discovery of a large colony at Brewood at which 3,500 Sand Martins were ringed (2,600 nesting holes) is by far the largest contribution so far made in the West Midland Bird Club area to this study. A major Swift study was started by the same ringers in the Coven Heath and Belvide areas and 1,700 birds—estimated to be a quarter of the population feeding in these areas—were ringed in 1968.

Ringing at winter roosts continued, though on a smaller scale than usual except at a new site at Temple Grafton where amongst other things a total of 250 Lesser Redpolls was caught during the autumn and winter. A further large scale catch of the Pied Wagtails at the Sparkhill roost took place but there were no further long distance recoveries reported during the year.

New activities during the year included the ringing of over 200 Reed Warblers and Sedge Warblers in Worcestershire, particularly in the area of the Salwarpe Canal. The study of Acrocephalous warblers is now a national enquiry. Another member concentrated on ringing Snipe and a total of 80 were caught in various parts of the Midlands at the end of the year. A member who has been ringing pulli in the Stratford-on-Avon and Wellesbourne area for many years surpassed all his previous efforts in ringing 1,000 pulli during 1968. Finally at the end of the year a study of the Wigeon at Blithfield Reservoir was commenced and a total of nearly 150 were caught in December—almost equal to the number ringed in

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the whole country in the preceding two years. This study is intended to find the origin of Wigeon visiting Blithfield and to discover how stable the population is during each winter and whether the same birds return to the area in subsequent years.

Lists of interesting recoveries are given later in the Report. These include all recoveries of birds which have moved more than 50 miles (in the case of Mute Swans—60 miles, Starling—100 miles, Swallow and Sand Martin—200 miles). In addition the recovery of a Long Tailed Tit which moved the surprising distance of 17 miles is also included. The most notable recoveries were of a Curlew ringed on August 1st as a moulting adult bird at Blithfield and recovered in a subsequent year in Sweden in the breeding season. The ringing date seems surprisingly early for a bird from Sweden to have reached central England, but the only other explanation is that this British breeding Curlew subsequently changed its breeding area to Sweden, a less likely explanation. Redpolls provided two pleasing recoveries, a bird from Coventry being recovered in Belgium and one of those caught at Temple Grafton having been ringed in Dumfries during the summer. The usual crop of widely spread foreign recoveries of thrushes was again recorded in 1968.

C. D. T. MTNTON.

THE BIRDS OF A SUBURBAN GARDEN Bird ringing is always full of surprises. One of those which

comes to most ringers in their early days is the number of individual birds which visit an ordinary garden during the course of a year. We are all used to looking out and seeing half a dozen Starlings on the lawn and the odd couple of Blackbirds and Dunnocks, but until one really gets down to marking these birds individually one tends to imagine that one is seeing the same few birds day after day.

The following is a four year record of the results of ringing in a suburban garden in Coopers Road, Handsworth Wood, within three miles of the centre of Birmingham. The garden itself is one of 40 or 50 similar plots and is 30 yards long and 12 yards wide. It is bordered on both sides for half its length by privet hedges interspersed with small trees and the bottom half is devoted entirely to small trees and fruit bushes.

All the catching has been made with two 40ft. mist nets using a catching time of approximately one day per week supplemented by a large number of summer evenings and a few early mornings.

Soon after ringing began two striking features emerged—the large number of birds passing through and the small number retrapped. Who would have expected, for instance, a total of 384 different Starlings in the first year and well over a thousand during the four year period of the study? The population changed com-pletely every week and sometimes every day. Only 11 Starlings

1 0

were recaptured in the same year as they had been ringed and most of the retraps in fact occurred in the months of April and May, a year after ringing, and were presumably adult birds returning to their nesting areas. Four of the birds caught already carried rings, one from Liverpool and three ringed locally seven years previously. Two birds have subsequently been recovered abroad, one in Germany and the other in Denmark.

The staggering total of 395 Blackbirds visited this garden during the four year period. A rather higher percentage than in the case of Starlings were recaught although it was obvious that the local resident birds quickly learnt the net sites and avoided being recaptured. A particularly noteworthy record concerns the juvenile Blackbirds with a total of 235 ringed in the months June to September, presumably the period of post fledging dispersal. There is no indication from the recoveries that these birds come from far afield, most recoveries being local and mainly recovered " killed by cat! "

The attached table gives full details of the numbers of each species caught. Other especially noteworthy totals for the four year period include 101 Dunnocks, 63 Song Thrushes and 30 Robins.

Although the garden had always been carefully watched the only summer migrant species previously recorded there was Willow Warbler. As is often the case elsewhere mist netting revealed the presence of unexpected species and during the four year period not only were 19 different Willow Warblers caught but also two White-throats, three Garden Warblers and a Redstart.

One of the pleasing features of the whole project has been the lack of disturbance the use of mist nets seems tp occasion. Each year for instance, Blackbirds and Dunnocks have nested successfully within 6ft. of the net itself.

So next time you look at the birds on your bird table remember it may not be just ' the same old Robin, Blue Tit or Blackbird! *

Total birds ringed Grand Total Species Total Retraps Species

1965 1966 1967 1968 Starling 384 164 134 341 1023 37 Blackbird 107 56 90 142 395 84 Dunnock 25 20 30 26 101 35 Greenfinch 41 10 18 19 88 5 Song Thrush . . 15 13 15 20 63 5 Blue Tit 12 14 18 20 64 18 Great Tit -.. 10 7 12 22 51 9 Bullfinch 3 4 3 7 17 3 Chaffinch 3 2 6 11 22 3 Willow Warbler 6 5 3 5 19 3 Wren . . 4 2 - - 6 1 Robin 8 4 7 11 30 9 Whitethroat . . 2 - — - 2 —

Garden Warbler I 2 1 - 4 1 House Sparrow 2 2

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1 1 6

Total b i r d E ringed Grand Tnlal Total Reiraps Spccies

Tree Spa r row. . Ring Dove Coal Ti t Missel Thrush

1965 1966 1967 1968 I - - 3

I 1 3 4 5 4 4

1 2 I - 2 2 3

Redstart Goldfinch Redwing Fieldfare

2 2

A. T. EDWARDS.

BIRDS OF STAFFORDSHIRE, 1962 (Lord and Blake). Recent Additions

The Club published in 1962 'Birds of Staffordshire' (Lord and Blake), a booklet covering the years 1938-1961, and giving the status of birds occurring in Staffordshire since the previous publica-tion by T. Smith in 1938.

The following additions in Check-List order bring the list up to date as far as 1968 in respect of species recorded for the first time in the county since 1938 and also in respect of first breeding records since that date. 26. Fulmar. One flew east at Swallow Moss, North Staffordshire

moors, on June 5th, 1961. 32. *Little Egret. Two seen at Blithfield Reservoir on May 11th,

47. fGarganey. Bred at Belvide Reservoir in 1962 and 1963. [*tRuddy Duck. First seen at Belvide Reservoir in September,

1959, and subsequently at several waters in numbers up to 25. Breeding recorded at Belvide, Copmere and Gailey].

92. Rough-legged Buzzard. Single birds seen at Whittington Sewage Farm on October 23rd and November 6th, 1960, and on Cannock Chase on April 9th, 1967.

121. Spotted Crake. One seen at Belvide Reservoir on January 29th, 1963, two on September 20th, 1966, and one on November 23rd and December 8th, 1968. One at Blithfield Reservoir on October 8th, 1966.

176. *Pectoral Sandpiper. Single birds seen at Blithfield Reservoir from September 23rd to 30th, 1962, and from August 12th to 17th, 1967.

186. *Black-winged Stilt. One seen at Belvide from June 11th to 19th, 1968.

1967.

1 2

216. ^Caspian Tern. One seen at Belvide on July 20th, 1968. 230. Puffin. Single birds picked up at Rugeley in June, 1963,

and at Longdon on November 4lli, 1967. 282. Nutcracker. One seen at Stapenhill, Burton-upon-Trent, on

October 27th, 1968. 295. Bearded Tit. Five seen at Branston from November 8th to

10th, 1963, and two on January 6th, 1966. One at Blith-field Reservoir on November 27th, 1966.

*fCollared Dove. Pair reported in Kings Bromley area in summer, 1961, and juveniles seen in the autumn. Reported at Coven Heath in November, 1962, in the West Bromwich and Hamstall areas in 1963, and in many areas of south and mid-Staffordshire in subsequent years.

321. fBlack Redstart. Bred at Bilston in 1964, and probably in earlier years, and again in.1966 and 1967.

365. *Firecrest. One caught and ringed at Gnosall on November 23rd, 1966.

374. Richard's Pipit. One seen' at Blithfield Reservoir on April 8th, 1963, and up to three between October 15th and November 5th, 1967.

396. Twite. Bred on north Staffordshire moors in 1967 and 1968. 410. Corn-Bunting. From 1965 singing birds reported in summer

in several areas in south and mid-Staffordshire. Believed to be breeding but no positive record received.

* Not included in T. Smith's ' Birds of Staffordshire ' as having occurred in the county prior to 1938 and therefore a first record for Staffordshire.

f Not included in T. Smith's 'Birds of Staffordshire' as having bred in the county prior to 1938 and therefore a first breeding record for Staffordshire.

A. R. M. BLAKE. J. LORD.

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CLASSIFIED NOTES The number preceding the name of each bird refers to the Check-List of the

Birds of Great Britain and Ireland. An asterisk indicates that the species is believed to breed in the region.

i . Warwickshire. II. Worcestershire. III. Staffordshire (See pages 64 and 65 for key to contributors).

2. Great Northern Diver. I. One present at Bartley Reservoir from January 2nd (Y.M.W.) until March 2nd (J.H.W.R.).

II. A bird, believed to be the same, seen at Bittell on February 17th (several observers) and on the 27th (K.G.C., M.F.).

III. One noted at Blithfield Reservoir on February 11th (J.W.H.) and March 23rd (F.C.G., F.E.P.).

- 4. Red-throated Diver. III. A bird with some oil on underparts seen at Cannock Reservoir on January 6th (R.A.H.).

5. Great Crested Grebe*. Loss of nests due to flooding reported from several waters.

I. At Alvecote, where the most seen was 42 birds on May 12th, there was a disastrous season, no young being reared owing to floods in May, fish disease, and the netting of fish in the pools (G.A.A.). 12 pairs bred at Bodymoor Heath where the maximum birds seen was 60 on May 23rd (E.A.H.). Eight pairs at Edgbaston Lake on April 22nd was the most seen there by observer (E.C.). 22 pairs were present at Coombe Abbey in June (C.H.P.) and 16 birds at Bartley Reservoir on June 29th was more than usual there (R.M.).

II. The maximum seen at Bittell was 41 on March 17th (K.G.C.) and 21st (D.M.H.) and at Upton Warren 14 on May 5th (A.R.D.), Bred successfully at Westwood for the first time for some years (C.P.B.).

III. Maxima noted at various waters were 30 at Belvide on March 16th (D.S.); 13 at Tittesworth on May 4th (A.G.F.); 85 at Blithfield on August 4th (A.R.D.); 16 at Gailey on August 11th (D.S.); 21, of which 15 were young birds, at Copmere on September 3rd (D.S.); and up to 13 at Cannock Reservoir in September (R.A.H.).

7. Slavonian Grebe. I. One seen at Bartley on December 27th (R.C.B., P.J.).

II. One present at Upton Warren on January 7th (R.M., B.T.N.). III. Single birds seen at Belvide on April 10th (D.S.) and at Blithfield

from November 24th (several observers) until December 1st (A.R.M.B., A.R.D., G.S.).

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8. Black-necked Grebe. I. One noted at Alvecote on September 8th (G.A.A.) and at Bartley on December 22nd (R.M., B.T.N.).

If. Single birds seen at Bittell from January 13th to 16th (M.J.I.) and from March I Oth to 22nd (J.M.H.) and at Westwood between September 8th (C.P.B.) and November 13th (A.F.J.).

I II. One seen at Cannock Reservoir on September 2nd (R.A.H.), and at Gailey on September 11th (B.C.G.).

7/8. Slavonian/Blaek-necked Grebe. III. One seen at Belvide on November 3rd (D.S.).

9. Little Grebe*. I. Eight present at Brandon on September 8th (B.M.C.G.), nine at Chesterton Church Pool on September 24th (J.L.) and 26 at Alvecote on November 17th (G.A.A.).

II. At Westwood, where six nests were seen (C.P.B.), 10 birds counted on April 7th (A.R.D., B.R.D.) and at Bittell, 12 birds on September 9th (A.R.D., B.R.D.).

T.I.I. Up to nine counted around Cannock Reservoir during September (R.A.H.) and at least 19 at Blithfield on October 6th (F.C.G.).

14. Storm-Petrel. II. One watched for over an hour over the Severn at Bewdley on the unusual date of July 13th (G.W.F.C.).

16. Manx Shearwater. I. One found at Nuneaton on September 25th (Mrs. C. Parkes).

T.TT. One picked up alive at Nelson Hall, Eccleshall, on September 26th (D.E.J.C.).

26. Fulmar. II. One seen flying low over the Malverns on April 28th (M.J.I.).

28. Cormorant. Most records from Staffordshire. I. 16 flew east south-east over Alvecote on November 24th (G.A.A.).

ITT. The maximum at Gailey was 13 on February 17th and November 24th (P J ) a n d , at Belvide, where one or two seen with characteristics of southern race, 11 on March 16th (D.S.). First noted in autumn at Blithfield on July 6th (A.R.M.B.) and the most seen subsequently was 22 on November 16th (I.J.D.).

30. Heron*. I. 20 nests counted at Coombe Abbey and 17 birds present on July 14th. was the maximum seen at Brandon (B.M.C.G.). At Wyndley Pool, Sutton Park, one landed on deep water for a few seconds on November 24th (J.P.).

TT. 12 at Bittell on August 6th (K.G.C.) and 10 near Kidderminster on September 7th (R.M.) were the most seen in these localities.

TTT. Bagot's Park heronry had a good season and increased to 57 nests (T.W.F.); 59 nests reported at Aqualate (D. Hope); and two near Tittesworth Reservoir (G.L.). 40 birds counted around Blithfield Reservoir on July 7th (A.R.D., P.D.H.); 10 at Tittesworth on August 23rd (A.G.F.); and seven at Worn-bourne in winter months (I.D.).

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38. Bittern. I. Single birds seen at Brandon .between March 2nd and 24th and "from December 22nd to 26th (B.M.C.G.). One at Alvecote on September 28th and 29th (per G.A.A.).

IT. A bird flushed at Westwood on December 26th (C.P.B.).

[44. Flamingo. Escapes seen at several waters, probably the same bird in some cases. Single birds seen (I) at Hams Hall in April and May, Bodymoor Heath in early June and Brandon from early August, (II) Qt Bittell Reservoir in late November and (III) at Blithfield during most of December.]

45. Mallard*. I. Largest numbers reported were 100 Breuton Park, Solihull, January 2nd (R.S.C.); 350 Bodymoor Heath on January 7th (G.A.A.) and December 29th (H.T.L.); 160 Alvecote on February 4th (G.A.A.); 250 Middleton Hall Pool on February 4th (R.A.H.); 400 at Brandon on September 8th (B.M.C.G.); 100 Chesterton Church Pool on October 20th (E.J.B., W.G.B.); 650 at Coombe Abbey on December Lst (B.M.C.G.); 283 Sutton Park on December 15th (T.M.T.).

IT. 100 present at Westwood on December 30th (C.P.B.). TTI. As with other ducks numbers greater than usual at Belvide as the

reservoir re-filled, the maximum being 2,000 in second half of December (C.R., D.S.), seven broods totalling 37 ducklings being seen on June 2nd (M.J.I.). Maximum numbers reported at other waters were 150 at Branston on January 13th (T.C.); 200 at Copmere in January and September (G.S., N.R.W.); 250 at Gailey on December 12th (A.R.D.); and 1,600 at Blithfield on December 15th (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.).

46. Teal*. .1. Nest with nine eggs seen at Monks Park Wood, Bentley, on May 8th (D.J.K., J.Te.). 60 reported at Bodymoor Heath on. January 14th (G.A.A.); 50 at Coombe Abbey on January 28th (B.M.C.G.); 120 at Alvecote on March 3rd (G.A.A.); 250 in Middleton area on November 3rd (E.A.H.); 140 at New Waters on November 17th (O.L.L., T.W.L.); 250 at Brandon on December 21st (B.M.C.G.); and 200 at Draycote on December 24th (J.C.).

IT. 100 reported at Upton Warren on December 15th (R.M., B.T.N.). ITT. 90 at Rickerscote on January 6th (F.C.G.); 400 at Blithfield on

October 11th (T.W.F.); 800 at Belvide on October 26th (D.S.); 100 at Cresswell Marshes on December lst (D.E.J.C.).

47. Garganey*. I. Bred successfully at Hams Hall where eight on July 28th (H.T.L.) and August 25th (E.A.H.) were the most birds seen. Birds present at Brandon from April 14th to September 12th with a pair in the summer and a maximum of seven birds on August 11th (B.M.C.G.). Pair noted at Alvecote

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In late May and early July and up to seven in period August L3th to 29th (G.A.A.). Two seen at Earlswood on March 31st (J.D.M.W.), six at Bodymoor Heath on August 8th (E.A.H.) and one at Leamington Spa Reservoir on September 1st (E.J.B.).

II. One seen at Upton Warren on April 28th (several observers), two pairs during May (J.H.W.R.) and present between June 12th (A.R.D., B.R.D.) and September 11th (A.R.D.) with 16 on August 1st (W.E.O.). A pair present at Westwood during June (J.H.W.R.) and one on September 8th (R.M., B.T.N.).

ITT. One or two seen at Belvide from April 23rd (GJ.U.) until June 6th (D.M.T.) and from July 13th (C.R., D.S.) to August 11th (D.S.). At Blithfield one reported on May 19th (A.F.J.), two on June 23rd (J.C., A.R.D.) and present from August 10th (A.R.M.B.) until September 22nd (A.R.M.B.) with the exceptional totals of 26 on August 18th (A.R.D.) and 19 on the 25th (A.R.D., B.R.D., J.H.W.R.). One seen at Whittington Sewage Farm on April 21st (R.M.) and one at Bittell on September 9th (B.R.D.).

48. Blue-winged Teal. IT. A drake, believed wild, seen at Upton Warren from March 6th (B.T.N.) until March 27th (A.R.D., B.R.D., J.H.W.R.) and was a first record for the Club's area.

49. Gadwall. I. Single birds seen at Perry Park, Birmingham, on January 24th and February 19th (G.E.L.), at Bracebridge Pool, Sutton Park, on February 22nd and 24th (A.R.M.B.), and at Chesterton Mill Pool on September 15th (F.R.).

IT. At Westwood one present from February 18th (C.P.B.) until March 3rd (M.J.I.), one or two from April 19th (C.P.B.) until May 29th (A.F.J.) and one on December 25th (A.F.J.).

III. Up to three seen at Blithfield on a few dates between May 5th (M.J.I.) and July 6th (A.F.J.) and present from September 4th (W.E.O.) until December 1st (B.C.G.) with five on September 21 st (A.F.J.). Two seen at Belvide on May 29th, one on June 15th (A.R.M.B.), two on October 26th, three on December 14th (D.S.) and two on the 21st (C.R., D.S.).

50. Wigeon. I. Maximum numbers reported from various waters were 55 at Alvecote on February 4th (M.J.A.); 150 at Brandon on February 10th (B.M.C.G.); 120 at Coombe on February 18th (B.M.C.G.); 86 in Tame Valley on December 15th (G.A.A.); 150 at Draycote on December 19th (N.S.); and 57 at New Waters on December 29th (O.L.L., T.W.L.).

IT. 90 on March 3rd (C.P.B.) was the most reported from Westwood. 100 present at Bittell on December 1st (L.W.) and 102 at Upton Warren on the 23rd (T.A.W.).

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ITT. Maximum numbers counted were 50 on river Sow, Milforri, on. February 25th and March 3rd (G.S.); 960 on November 17th at Blithfield (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.) where one seen throughout the summer; 50 at White Sitch on December 1st (J.L.); and about 300 at Belvide on December 14th (D.S.).

52. Pintail. I. Single birds reported from Hams Hall during May and June (H.T.L.); Coombe on January 21st and 27th (B.M.C.G.); Alvecote on August 28th (G.A.A.); Middleton on September 15th and November 3rd (E.A.H.); Brandon on September 28th (B.M.C.G.); Wormleighton on November 3rd (B.O.S.); and Chesterton Mill Pool on December 14th (F.R.). Five seen at Draycote on December 23rd (J.C.).

TT. More than usual recorded at Upton Warren where up to six seen from January 7th (R.M., B.T.N.) until April 19th (C.P.B.) and again from November 17th (R.M., B.T.N.) until end of year (A.F.J.). One seen at Bittell on February 2nd (K.C.G.) and three on March 29th (J.H.W.R.). One or two present at West-wood from January 28th (F.R.B., N.P.B.) to February 13th (C.P.B.), three on March 3rd (M.J.I.) and one on December 15th (C.P.B.).

ITT. Five seen at Blithfield on January 21 st (E.S.C.), seven on February 18th (T.W.F.), one on May 17th (J.L.) and then up to ten between August 24th (A.F.J.) and December 31st (D.A.H.). One present at Belvide on June 11th (D.S.) and 12th (C.R.) and then up to five from October 19th (A.F.J., D.S.) to mid-December with 21 on December 14th (D.S.) and 14 to the end of the year (D.S.). Four noted at Rickerscote on January 18th and two from February 13th to 15th (F.C.G.). Five occurred at Copmere on January 28th (N.R.W.).

53. Shoveler*. I. 20 reported at Coombe on September 4th (B.M.C.G.); 22 at Alvecote on August 28th (G.A.A.); 60 at Brandon on September 8th (B.M.C.G.); 20 on September 22nd at Middleton where breeding recorded (E.A.H.); 13 at Body-moor Heath on September 25th (H.T.L.).

TT. 40 present at Upton Warren on November 17th (D.S.); 21 at Westwood on November 24th (C.P.B.); and about 20 at Bittell on December 11th (K.G.C.).

TT1. The most reported at various waters was 170 at Blithfield on September 14th (J.L., L.S.); 120 on October 26th (D.S.) at Belvide where bred; 50 at White Sitch on December 1st (J.L.); and 13 at Cresswell Marshes on December 24th (D.E.J.C.).

54. Red-crested Pochard. III. A duck seen at Belvide on June 29th (C.R.) was probably an ' escape '.

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55. Scaup. I. A drake seen at Bodynioor Heath on September 15th (E.A.H., H.T.L.) and a duck on December 11th at Leamington Spa Reservoir (E.J.B.).

III. One occurred at Branston from March 2nd to 14th (T.C.) and at Cannock Reservoir on the unusual date of May 19th (R.A.H.).

56. Tufted Duck*. 1. 129 on December 15th (G.A.A.) was the maximum at Alvecote where 10 broods noted totalling 59 young. 150 present on December 22nd (H.T.L.) at Bodymoor Heath where eight broods totalled 55 ducklings. Bred at Whiteacre, Middleton area (E.A.H.), Earlswood (M.J.I., T.G.), Packington (K.S.), Brandon (B.M.C.G.), Coombe (C.H.P.), Coleshill Bogs (B.L.K.), Chesterton Mill and Chesterton Church Pools (several observers).

II. Five pairs noted at Upton Warren with 44 young (W.E.O.). Bred at Westwood (C.P.B.) and Belbroughton (R.M.).

III. Bred at Copmere (N.R.W.), Belvide where six broods totalled 20 young on August 2nd (J.L.), Gailey (D.S.) and Cresswell Marshes (D.E.J.C.). Maximum numbers reported at various waters were: 220 at Blithfield on November 17th (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.); 120 at Copmere on November 3rd (N.R.W.); 200 at Belvide on November 30th (D.S.); and 400 at Gailey on August l l t h ( H . L ) .

57. Pochard*. I. 328 present at Alvecote on February 18th (G.A.A.) where seven broods totalled 22 young. 200 reported at Body-moor Heath on October 22nd (E.A.H.); 86 at Coombe on February 18th (B.M.C.G.); and 100 at Draycote on December 19th (N.S.). Bred at Chesterton Mill Pool (B.O.S.).

II. The most seen at Westwood where two pairs nested was 80 on February 15th (C.P.B.). 100 present at Upton Warren on December 8th (J.R.W.).

111. Maxima reported were 84 at Gailey on January 23rd (A.J.D.); 32 at Stowe Pool, Lichfield, the most ever seen there (F.E.P.); 75 at Copmere on November 3rd (N.R.W.); 114 at Blithfield on November 17th (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.); 115 at Branston in December (T.C.); and 260 at Belvide on December lst (J.L.) where 88 on July 16th (D.S.) was an early influx.

[Ruddy Duck*. I. One or two seen at Alvecote (G.A.A.). 11. One seen on various dates at Upton Warren and at Westwood

(A.F.J., D.S.). III. 25 on December 21st was the most seen at Belvide and seven at

Blithfield on December 15th (F.C.G., G.S.). One or two seen at Gailey, mainly in autumn months (A.J.D., D.A.H., G.W.) and bred at Copmere where four ducklings seen on August 25th (D.S., G.S.)].

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58. White-eyed Pochard. II. A drake seen at Bittell on September 9th (A.R.D., B.R.D.).

60. Golden-Eye. I. Up to five seen at Leamington Spa Reservoir during autumn and winter (E.J.B.). Two present at Alvecote on January 14th and up to three between October 26th and December 15th (G.A.A.). 15 reported at Bodymoor Heath in late February (H.T.L.) and early March (E.A.H., G.E.L.) and up to three at Bartley between January 14th (R.M., B.T.N.) and early March (J.H.W.R.). One at Coombe on December 15th and 26th (B.M.C.G.) and one or two at Packington from April 13th to May 1st and between October 10th and December 15th (K.S.).

II. A bird at Upton Warren on March 27th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.) and from November 24th until December 28th (R.M., B.T.N.). Up to three present at Westwood in winter and spring and one in the autumn (C.P.B.). One seen at Bittell on January 7th (R.M., B.T.N.), December 30th (T.A.W.) and 31st (D.M.H.).

III. The most reported at various waters was: 39 at Belvide on March 16th (D.S.); 35 at Gailey on March 24th (D.S.); 21 at Blithfield on November 17th(T.W.F., J.L.. L.S.); 14 at Tittes-worth on December 15th (H.W.K.); and 25, the highest total yet recorded, on December 21st (D.D., R.A.H.) at Cannock Reservoir where one present in summer months although capable of full flight.

61. Long-tailed Duck. I. An immature seen at Bartley on March 2nd (J.H.W.R.) and a duck at Wormleighton on the 25th (B.O.S.).

III. A duck present at Knighton Reservoir on April 16th (G.S.) and 23rd (J.F.B.).

64. Common Scoter. III. Two seen at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th, two on July 15th, a further four arrived on the 18th (R.A.H.), one present on the 19th (G.J.U.) and one on September 17th (R.A.H.).

67. Eider. III. Five ducks present at Cannock Reservoir from December 16th (A.R.D., R.A.H.) until the 31st (J.H.W.R.) feeding on crayfish.

69. Red-breasted Merganser. III. Single birds seen at Blithfield on February 18th (T.W.F.) and March 10th (B.C.G.) and two at Tittesworth on November 17th (P.Do.).

70. Goosander. I. Four present at Alvecote on January 14th and up to three between December 15th and 29th (G.A.A.). Four on December 11th (G.E.L.) and six on the 15th (J.P., T.M.T.) in Sutton Park, where unusual. Four seen at Bartley on January 14th (R.M., B.T.N.) and one on December 28th (Y.M.W.);

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one at Leamington Spa Reservoir on December 17th and 18th (E.J.B., R.G.G., S.G.); two at Packington on December 15th (K.S.); one or two at Bodymoor Heath on Decern her 26th (J.R.W.) and 29lh (H.T.L.); and one at Middleton on December 29th (E.A.H.).

II. One seen at Bittell on January 7th (M.J.I.) and two on December 15th (K.G.C., R.M., B.T.N.). One present at Westwood on February 11th (J.H.W.R.).

HI. At least 40 present at Blithfield in early months of year (E.S.C., J.L.) and after three on November 5th (J.L.) numbers built up to about 40 at end of year with 58 on December 26th (M.J.I.). About 20 present at Belvide in March and up to nine from Novem-ber 24th (R.C.B., A.R.M.B., P.J.) to end of year. 30 seen at Cop-mere on January 21st (I.J.D.) and at Bromley Mill Pool on the same date (G.S.). One seen at Kings Bromley on January 28th and two on December 28th and 29th (M.J.A.); one at Branston on March 2nd (T.C.); one or two at Cannock Reservoir between November 3rd (D.D.) and December 20th (R.A.H.); 14 at Clay Mills on December 19th (E.S.C.); and one at Gailev on Decem-ber 23rd (R.C.B., P.J.).

71. Smew. I. A duck seen in Sutton Park from November 21st (G.E.L.) until December 21st (A.R.M.B., G.E.L.) was the first for over 40 years.

11. A duck present at Bittell on December 31st (K.G.C.). III. A drake reported at Belvide on November 10th (P.T.B.).

73. Sheld-Duck. I. Four seen at Bartley on January 14th (Y.M.W.); three at Alvecote on April 7th and one or two from August 27th (G.A.A.); four at Brandon from May 5th to 19th and four on November 17th (B.M.C.G.); two at Bodymoor Heath on May 19th, from September 1st to 18th and one on November 17th (E.A.H., H.T.L.); one at Ryton Gravel Pits on June 4th (C.H.P.); and one at Packington on September 15th (K.S.) and December 1st (K.S., J.R.W.).

II. One seen at Bittell on January 7th (T.A.W.) and 8th (D.M.H.), up to three from March 1st (J.M.H.) to 29th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R., A.C.W.) and three on December 12th (K.G.C.). One noted at Upton Warren on February 11th (M.J.I.), three on September 21st (T.A.W.) and one during November and December (A.F.J.). A bird seen at Westwood on April 21st (C.P.B.) and November 17th (C.P.B.).

III. One at Branston on January 23rd (T.C.); five at Blithfield on March 3rd (B.C.G.), two on December 1st (B.C.G., A.S., G.S.) and one on the 21st (A.R.M.B., E.S.C., D.J.M.); one at Cannock Reservoir on March 23rd (R.A.H.), four on September 20th (R.A.H.) and November 16th (several observers); two at

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Belvide on April |3th (D.S.) and three on May 18th (R.S.C., J.H.W.R.); two at Bromley Pool on April Ibth (G.S.); one at Clay Mills on August 9th and 25th (E.S.C.) and three on December 15th (E.S.C.) and 16th (A.R.D.); two at Copmere on January 7th (N.R.W.) and one on November 16th (T.W.B.).

75. Grey Lag-Goose.* All records believed to be feral birds. I. Bred at Packington where up to 15 birds noted in autumn (K.S.).

One at Ryton Gravel Pits in early April (C.H.P.) and up to 15 seen in Middleton area from September 4th to December 30th (E.A.H., H.T.L.).

II. Two seen at Westwood on March 21st (A.R.D.) and one on April 6th (C.P.B.).

III. Up to five (C.R.) present at Belvide on dates between May 3rd (J.L.) and end of year, mainly in late December (several observers). Two at Gailey on September 17th (B.C.G.).

76. White-fronted Goose. I. An immature seen at Alvecote from March 17th to April 17th (G.A.A.).

II. 15 present at Westwood on March 3rd (C.P.B.) and five llew south west at Upton Warren on October 29th (T.A.W.). Birds believed to be of this species heard calling at night over Sheriffs Lench on December 28th (T.C.S.).

111. Up to seven seen at Belvide between December 14th (D.S.) and 28th (R.C.B., P.J., K.S.).

81. Barnacle Goose. All records believed to be feral birds. I. One seen at Seeswood Pool on May 31st (E.H.T.); at Bodymoor

Heath on May 19th and October 13th (H.T.L.); at Middleton from September 9th to October 2nd (K.S.); at Chesterton Church Pool on September 24th (J.L.); and at Breuton Park, Solihull, from July to September (R.S.C.).

II. Two present at Westwood on April 28th and May 4th (C.P.B.) and one at Upton Warren on the 29th (A.F.J.).

82. Canada Goose.* I. Bred at SolihulI (E.J.B.), Bodymoor Heath— 13 pairs (E.A.H.), Maxhall (E.A.H.), Coombe (C.H.P.) and Packington (K.S.) where 30 goslings survived. Largest numbers reported were: 700 at Bodymoor Heath on September 18th (E.A.H.); 326 at Middleton Hall Pool on September 30th (K.S.); and 91 at Brueton Park, Solihull, on October 22nd (R.S.C.).

II. 40 birds in autumn was the maximum at Upton Warren where a bird was sitting on 10 eggs on April 21st (B.R.D.). 62 seen at Bittell on December 8th (R.M.).

III. Breeding reported from Branston, Gailey, White Sitch and Stretton Hall. Maximum numbers were 224 at Branston in September (T.C.); 120 at Gailey on September 17th (B.C.G.); 90 at Blithfield on October 20th (B.R.D., J.L., L.S.); and 162 at Belvide on December 26th (D.S.).

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84. Mute Swan.* I. Maximum seen at Alvecote was 129 on September 8th (G.A.A.). Six pairs attempted to breed but only one brood reared owing to floods and cold weather.

TTT. 46 on September 15th was the most reported from Cannock Reservoir (J.P.) and at Belvide 53 on December 30th (D.S.). Apparently no large concentration at Blithfield this year (A.R.D.).

85. Whooper-Swan. I. One seen at Alvecote on January 28th (G.A.A., R.G.H.).

TI. A family party of five noted at Upton Warren on November 11th (A.F.J.).

TTT. One seen at Rickerscote on January 6th and two on the 7th (F.C.G.).

86. Bewick's Swan. I. Up to four present at Seeswood Pool between January 7th (D.J.K.) and February 11th (E.H.T.) and birds seen in flight over Bedworth and Nuneaton in early months of year (H.L., R.K.S.); nine at Leamington Spa Reservoir on January 7th and one on October 13th (E.J.B.); nine in early January at Willes Meadow, Leamington Spa (several observers); single birds at Alvecote from April 14th to 21st, 12 on November 5th and 15 on the 22nd (G.A.A.); eight at Brandon on October 20th and five on the 21st (B.M.C.G.); 13 at Tame Valley gravel pits on December 13th (G.A.A.); and three at Draycote on December 19th (N.S.).

II. One seen at Upton Warren on January 17th (A.F.J.) and at Bittell two on the 10th (K.G.C., M.F.) and one on the 27th (Y.M.W.).

ITT. Five seen at Clay Mills on January 7th and 14th (E.S.C.); present at Cannock Reservoir between January 13th (R.A.H.) and February 24th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.), the most being 12 on the firsUdate; present at Blithfield between January 14th (E.S.C., R.A.H.) and March 17th (E.S.C.), with 23 on the first date, and up to seven between October 20th (E.S.C., M.J.I.) and December 15th (several observers); four at Alrewas on March 17th (E.S.C.);

° up to eight at Tittesworth between October 20th (H.W.K.) and December 15th (J.F.B., H.W.K.); five at Black Lake on Decem-ber 8th (G.F.); 15 at Kings Bromley on December 15th (M.J.A.); and 12 at Gailey on December 29th (A.R.M.B.).

91. Buzzard*. Many records of single birds throughout the area, with fewest in north Staffordshire, and mainly in autumn months. Other records as follows:—

II. Two-seen over woods at Storridge on July 29th (D.I.N.). TIT. Four at Ranton on November lst (T.W.B.) and two seen at

Yoxall on June 9th (B.C.G.).

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93. Sparrow-Hawk*. I. Several sightings of single birds mainly in autumn and winter.

IT. Various sightings of single birds in winter months. A pair seen at Belbroughton in March (L.A.C.) and one seen in Wyre Forest on May 28th (R.C.B.).

TTT. Nested in Yoxall/Barton area (per T.W.F.), Coombes Valley (G.L.) and Somerford Hall (per F.C.G.). Pair seen at Bishops Wood on June 2nd and 30th (R.A.H.). More sightings of single birds than in other counties on dates throughout the year.

99. Marsh-Harrier. I. A female present at Brandon on May 14th and 26th (B.M.C.G.).

100. Hen-Harrier. I. One seen in Sutton Park on November 24th (G.E.L., J.P.).

II. One reported at Upton Warren on April 16th (R.M.). ITT. A bird seen at Morridge, north Staffordshire moors, on June

16th (F.C.G.).

103. Osprey. I. One recorded at Brandon on April 21st (B.M.C.G.). ITT. A bird, hovering over the water at Belvide on June 19th finally

made off to the east-south-east (C.R.).

104. Hobby*. I. A pair and an immature male present at a Warwick-shire site during the summer but breeding not established (E.J.B.). Single birds seen at Alvecote on April 25th (H.T.L.) and September 1st (G.A.A.); at Brandon on May 18th and August 27th (B.M.C.G.); near Wolford on May 26th (A.F.J.); near Gorcott Hill on July 30th (A.J.R.); at Wormleighton from September 2nd to 21st (B.O.S.); and at Warmington on Septem-ber 17th (B.O.S.).

TI. Bred successfully despite felling of last year's nesting site and two adults and two young seen in flight in August (A.F.J., K.H.T.). One seen at Ilmington on August 20th (D.S.M.) and near Kidderminster on September 29th (R.M., B.T.N.).

105. Peregrine Falcon. I. One seen at Alvecote on July 27th had several wing and tail feathers missing (H.T.L.). •

III. One flew north over Belvide on April 7th (A.R.M.B.).

107. Merlin. III. Single birds seen at Belvide on November 9th (D.S.), at Heath Hayes on the 26th (A.J.D.) and between Pelsall and Brownhills on December 29th (A.F.J.).

110. Kestrel*. Breeding in all counties and frequently reported from urban areas. More sightings than usual.

I. Nested for sixth successive year in apple-box in Yardley church tower (K.S.P.).

II. 11 seen together on Malvern Hills on August 5th (D.I.N.).

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111. Red Grouse*. Breeding on north Staffordshire moors.

113. Black Grouse*. III. Reported from north Staffordshire moors as usual. Bred at Swinehole Wood, Tpstones (J.L., L.S.).

115. Red-legged Partridge*. I. Said to have increased in Tame Valley over last four years (E.A.H.).

III. The most reported were seven at Essington on August 2nd, eight at Whittington Sewage Farm on the 4th (D.S.) and up to 12 around Cannock Reservoir in autumn and winter (R.A.H.).

116. Partridge*. The most reported were:— T. About 12 at Alvecote on October 15th (G.A.A.); 16 at Harhpton-

in-Arden on the 13th (T.R.W.); 20 at Brandon on November 30th (B.M.C.G.). Said to be still declining in Tame Valley (E.A.H.).

TTT. 13 at Brownhills on September 17th (D.D.); 20 at Landywood on October 31st (D.S.); and 26 at Essington on December 27th (D.S.).

117. Quail. IT. One heard frequently from June 17th to July 25th

near Clent (J.S.) was the only record.

118. Pheasant*. Breeding in all counties.

120. Water-Rail*. Autumn and winter records from many waters. I. Bred at Coombe (C.H.P.). Heard at Chesterton Mill Pool in

late spring (F.R.) and in breeding season at Brandon where up to six seen in winter months (B.M.C.G.).

IT. Some spring and summer records from Westwood and Upton Warren (A.F.J.) and four at Upton Warren on February 10th (R.M.).

ITT. No summer reports. 121. Spotted Crake. I. One seen frequently at Brandon between

February 4th and March 16th (B.M.C.G.). III. A bird noted at Belvide on November 23rd (A.F.J.) and

December 8th (M.W.).

125. Corncrake*. I. Heard at Shipston-on-Stour on May 26th (H.T.L.) and an adult seen with two young near Chesterton on August 21st (R.T.).

III. Birds seen at Tittensor on April 21st (W.B.) and at Belvide on June 9th (D.S.).

126. Moorhen*. I. 50 noted at Coombe on January 21st (C.H.P.), 61 at Alvecote on February 4th (M.J.A.) and 50 at Brandon in the spring (B.M.C.G.).

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127. Coot*. T. 120 counted at Coombe on January 20th (C.H.P.): 110 at Bodymoor Heath on January 21st (G.A.A.); 80 at Brandon on October 15th (B.M.C.G.); 790 on November 17th at Alvecote, where about 12 pairs bred (G.A.A.); 70 at Seeswood Pool on December 7th (D.H.); and 400 in Tame Valley area on December 29th (E.A.H.).

IT. The maximum count at Upton Warren was 320 on November 6th (R.M.) and at Westwood 400 on December 30th (C.P.B.).

ITT. Maximum counts at various waters were: 620 at Blithfield on September 14th (J.L., L.S.); 400 at Gailey on October 5th (F.C.G.); 140 at Swinfen on December 1st (M.J.A.); 600 at Belvide on December 14th (D.S.); 240 at Cannock Reservoir on December 21st (D.D.); 92 at Cresswell Marshes on December 24th (D.E.J.C.). A bird seen at Copmere on August 9th had white on the head and fore-wings (A.G.F.).

1.31. Oystercatcher. I. Single birds occurred in Sutton Park on March 10th (G.E.L.), near Warton on September 2nd (D.Du.), and at Alvecote on August 28th and September 12th (G.A.A.).

IT. Four seen at Bittell on January 13th (M.J.I.) and also on March 13th (several observers).

TTT. Single birds seen at Blithfield on May 5th (E.S.C.), August 16th (I.J.D.) and September 8th (A.R.M.B.) and six on August 27th (D.M.T.). One present at Cannock Reservoir on October 25th (D.D.) and November 23rd (A.R.D.). Two reported at Branston on April 7th (T.C.).

133. Lapwing*. I. 500 flew north near Ansty on January 21st (C.H.P.). The largest numbers reported were: 1,000 at Body-moor Heath on July 21st (H.T.L.); 2,000 in river meadows of Tame Valley on August 18th (E.A.H.); 400 at Gaydon on September 22nd (R.A.H.); 2,500 at Brandon on October 21st (B.M.C.G.); 5,000 between Long Itchington and Offchurch on November 1st (I.K.D.); 900 at Alvecote on November 24th (G.A.A.).

TT. 200 flew west over Halesowen on January 9th after earlier snowfall (B.B.D.) and 180 in small flocks moved south-south-west at Kyre Sutton in two hours on December 26th (B.T.M.). 450 noted at Tardibigge on February 15th and July 13th (J.R.H.); and the same at Upton Warren on October 7th (B.B.D.).

TTT. About 300 flew north-west over Stafford on February 6th after heavy snow (F.C.G.). Noticeable passage to west over Burnt-wood from December 26th to end of year (R.A.H.) and at Belvide on December 28th (C.R.). Largest numbers reported were: 800 near Lichfield on February 1st (R.A.H.); 400 in Horseley/Garmelow area on July 3rd (N.R.W.); 400 at Landy-

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wood in early August and November 8th (D.S.); 700 at Essington on August 2nd (D.S.); 400 at Whittington Sewage Farm on August 4th (D.S.); 600 at Burntwood in mid-September (R.A.H.) 1,300 at Blithfield on October 29th (D.S.); 600 on October 13th at Belvide, where fewer pairs bred this year (D.S.); 1,000 at Latherford on December 4th (A.J.D.); and 1,000 at Haughton on December 4th and 5th (E.O.).

134. Ringed Plover. I. One or two noted at Alvecote from April 7th to May 5th and from August 25th (G.A.A.) until October 11th (R.G.H.). At Hams Hall eight seen on August 22nd and three on September 2nd (G.J.U.). Up to four seen at Brandon in late March and from July 31st to August 24th (B.M.C.G.).

II. Up to three seen at Upton Warren on dates between May 4th (A.J.R.) and June 3rd (A.F.J., R.M.) and one on August 7th (A.R.D., A.F.J.).

III. Noted at Belvide from March 22nd (J.L.) until June 18th (D.S.) usually about three until mid-May when numbers increased with a peak of 34 on the 18th (A.R.D., A.F.J., J.H.W.R.). Only one record in autumn of a bird on August 3rd (D.S.). At Blithfield up to three seen on a few dates between May 5th (E.S.C.) and June 23rd (several observers) and then usually about six between August 3rd (K.G.C., M.F.) and October 6th (A.R.D., B.R.D.) the maximum being 12 on August 21st (E.S.C.)

.and 24th (A.F.J., L.S.). Two reported at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (R.A.H., J.L.) and up to three on a few dates between August 4th (A.R.D.) and September 16th (R.A.H.). Five seen at Clay Mills on September 29th (E.S.C.).

135. Little Ringed Plover*. I. Bred at gravel pit near Shirley for first time (R.S.C.). Up to four seen at Draycote in spring and autumn and breeding recorded (J.C.). Believed to have bred at Tuttle Hill quarries, Nuneaton; at Hartshill (H.L.); and at Little Hay (G.J.U.). Bred at Brandon (B.M.C.G.). Eight pairs nested in the Packington, Hams Hall and Bodymoor Heath areas (H.T.L.), the most birds reported at Hams Hall being 20 on July 14th (H.T.L.) and at Packington four in spring and early August (K.S., J.R.W.). Single birds seen on passage at Alvecote on May 5th and 26th and again one or two between June 30th and July 28th (G.A.A.). One reported at Leamington Spa Reservoir on April 5th (E.J.B.) and three at Seeswood Pool on the 8th (H.L.).

II. Up to three noted at Upton Warren from April 7th (R.M., B.T.N., J.H.W.R.) to May 5th (A.R.D., P.D.H.) and one on July 17th (A.R.D.) and September 18th (B.T.N.). Single birds seen near Kidderminster between August 18th and September 3rd (R.M.).

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111. The low water level enabled a pair to breed at Belvide where nest seen on July 14th (R.M.). Bred near Brownhills (D.D.); in Manley area (A.R.M.B.); in Cannock Chase area (per F.C.G.); and probably near Cannock Reservoir where single birds seen on passage on May 18th and 19th (R.A.H.), two on July 5th (D.D.) and four on August 4th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.). Two seen at Clay Mills on April 21st and May 5th and then from July 28th to October 6th with six on the first date (E.S.C.); one at Rugeley Power Station on June 16th and four on July 21st (E.S.C., M.J.I.); present in three localities at Branston on April 7th (T.C.); and two at subsidence pools near Cannock on June 12th (D.J.M.). Noted on passage at Blithfield, usually two or three, on May 5th (E.S.C., M.J.I.) and between June 23rd (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.) and September 22nd (B.C.G.) with 10 on July 14th A.R.D., P.D.H., J.H.W.R.).

140. Golden Plover*. I. 350 seen at Nuneaton Fields on March 18th (D.J.K.) and 300 at Middleton on December Ist (E.A.H., H.T.L.).

111. One or two pairs bred on north Staffordshire moors. Largest flocks reported were: 450 at Shipley on January 28th (K.E.); 400 at Drayton Bassett on February 25th (L.S.) and September 8th (C.Pe.); 300 at Penkridge on March 21st (G.W.W.); 550 at Pillaton on March 24th (P.T.); 530 at Essington on April 9th when many appeared to be of northern race (D.S.); 100 near Brownhills on April 17th (D. D.) which appeared to be of northern race (D.D.); 200 at Fenton on November 4th (H.W.K.); and 200 at Werrington on December 7th (J.S.A.).

143. Turnstone. I. At Draycote up to six seen during period August 25th to September 5th (J.C.). Single birds noted at Bodymoor Heath on July 21st (E.A.H.) and at Hams Hall on September 10th (R.G.H.).

III. Up to four occurred at Belvide between May 1st (P.D.H.) and May 18th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.). One seen at Blithfield on August 25th (several observers).

145. Common Snipe*. I. About 60 on March 30th and September 10th was the maximum at Brandon where thought to have bred (B.M.C.G.). Probably bred at Coombe (C.H.P.). Around 50 noted in Tame Valley on September 29th (E.A.H.), at Hartshill Sewage Farm on October 17th (J.Wa.), and at Griff on October 20th (E.H.T.).

II. The maximum at Upton Warren was 100 on September 24th (W.E.O.) including a bird with buff plumage and white under-wing. 55 seen near Kidderminster on October 13th (B.T.N.).

III. Nested at Belvide where most seen was 50 on October 26th (N.R.W.) and bred at Landywood where maximum was 55 on November 8th (D.S.). Believed to have bred at Blithfield

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(M.J.I.) where 77 birds were counted on September 22nd A.R.M.B., L.S.). 110 noted at Latherford on September 18th A.J.D.) and 240 at Whittington Sewage Farm on December

22nd (D.S.).

147. Jack Snipe. Reported from various waters and marshes in winter, spring and autumn months, usually single birds, the most being seven on March 10th (R.M., B.T.N.) at Upton Warren (II).

148. Woodcock*. Autumn and winter records from many areas. I. Nest seen at Bed worth on April 17th (R.H.) and at Oversley

Wood on July 28th (F.F.). Bred at Packington (K.S.) and near Chesterton (E.J.B., W.G.B., J.T.). Noted in breeding season at two localities at Arbury (H.L.) and at Ryton Woods (G.H.K.).

II. Summer records from Randan Wood, Chaddersley Wood and Atch Lench Wood (F.F.).

III. Seven birds seen at dusk on Cannock Chase in Seven Springs/ Sherbrook Valley area on June 16th (P.T.). Breeding season records from Hopwas Wood, Fradley Wood, Weeford, Brereton Hayes (M.J.A.), Kinver Edge (A.V.F.), Woodseaves, Norbury (T.W.B.), Enville (R.C.B.) and Gibbert Wood (R.M., B.T.N.).

150. Curlew*. Breeding in all counties. Many autumn and spring reports on passage in small numbers.

I. 24 noted at Hams Hall on September 9th (H.T.L.). A winter record of one on January 21st (C.H.P.) at Coombe.

II. Winter records were one at Bittell on December 15th (D.M.H.) and one at Upton Warren on December 30th (T.A.W.).

III. The regular wintering flock at Whittington Sewage Farm (A.V.F.) totalled 120 on September 3rd (R.C.B.) and 98 on December 22nd (D.S.). Winter records were five at YOxall on January 13th (B.C.G.); one over Cannock Chase on February 19th (B.C.G.); one at Blithfield on December 1st (G.S.) and two on the 26th (M.J.I.); and three at Clay Mills on December 19th (E.S.C.).

151. Whimbrel. I. One seen at Brandon on August 25th (B.M.C.G.). II. A bird present at Upton Warren on April 22nd (A.F.J.) and

July 15th (R.M.) and three at Bittell on May 9th (A.F.J.). III. Single birds noted at Belvide on April 20th (A.F.J., D.S.),

May 8th (P.D.H.), July 24th (B.B.D.) and July 31st (G.J.U.); at Wednesfield on the night of May 3rd (D.S.); at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (R.A.H.); and at Blithfield on September 7th (K.G.C., M.F.).

154. Black-tailed Godwit. II. A bird seen at Upton Warren on May 15th (A.R.D.).

III. Single birds reported at Belvide on April 15th (L.F.D., P.J., G.S., A.C.W.) and at Blithfield on July 31st (F.C.G.).

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155. liar-tailed Godwit. 11. One seen at Bittell on September 9th (K.G.C., M.F.).

111. Single birds occurred at Cannock Reservoir from May 25th to June 1st (R.A.H.) and at Blithfield on August 24th (A.F.J.) and October 20th (J.L., L.S.).

156. Green Sandpiper. Autumn and late summer occurrences from many waters, the most reported being 10 at Upton Warren (II) on July 10th (A.R.D., P.D.H., J.H.W.R.) and at Brandon (1) on August 11th (B.M.C.G.). No spring records from Staffordshire and all winter records from Warwickshire.

I. Winter records were: one in Tame Valley throughout the winter months (E.A.H.); one or two at Hartshill Sewage Farm on January 14th (L.G.); one at Brandon on February 3rd and December 21st (B.M.C.G.).

157. Wood-Sandpiper. 1. Single birds seen at Alvecote from July 27th (H.T.L.) to August 6th (G.A.A.); at Bodymoor Heath on August 4th (H.T.L.); at Draycote from August 7th to 9th (J.C.); at Hams Hall on August 11th and 22nd (G.T.U.); at Minworth on September 5th (J.R.W.) and near Chesterton Church Pool from September 19th to 28th (I.M.E., E.E.G., P.C.J.). One or two seen at Brandon between August 11th and 19th (B.M.C.G.) and one at Middleton on August 4th and five on the 11th (E. A.H.).

II. Three present at Upton Warren on July 13th (R.M., B.T.N.), two on the 17th (A.R.D.) and then up to three between August 23rd (A.J.R.) and September 24th (W.E.O.).

III. Single birds seen at Blithfield on May 5th (E.S.C.) and from August 7th (E.S.C.) until the 17th (A.F.J.); one at Landywood on August 7th (D.S.).

159. Common Sandpiper*. Recorded on spring and autumn passage from many waters.

1. 15 on August 14th at Bodymoor Heath (E.A.H.) was the most seen on passage. A late bird seen at Hams Hall on November 3rd (G.J.U.).

II. Seven on August 14th at Upton Warren (A.R.D.) was the maxi-mum noted on passage.

III. Bred in north Staffordshire. Largest concentrations reported were 12 at Belvide on July 18th (D.S.); 17 at Blithfield on September 8th (A.R.D., B.R.D.); eight at Aqualate on April 20th (T.E.C.P.); and 12 at Tittesworth on August 7th (A.G.F.). Late birds seen at Blithfield on October 20th (G.S.) and by river Trent at Stoke on November 15th (H.W.K.).

161. Redshank*. I. Bred at Hams Hall, otherwise very scarce in Tame Valley (H.T.L.). Bred near Lighthorne (O.L.L., T.W.L.). Seven on March 24th (E.H.T.) at Hartshill Sewage Farm was the largest concentration reported and the only winter record was one at Hams Hall on December 29th (J. R.W.).

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II. One winter record of a bird on December 14th (T.A.W.) at Upton Warren where one or two pairs bred.

III. Four or five pairs bred at Belvide where about 30 birds were present on March 30th (G.E.L., C.R.). Bied at Landywood and probably at Whittington Sewage Farm (D.S.), Knightley (T.W.B.) and Cresswell Marshes (D.E.J.C.).

162. Spotted Redshank. I. One present at Brandon between September 7th and 15th (B.M.C.G.); one at Hams Hall on September 10th (R.G.H.); and four at Hartshill Sewage Farm on September 11th (M.M., C.Pe.).

TI. A bird seen at Upton Warren from March 31st (R.M., B.T.N.) to April 5th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.) and up to four between August 30th (T.A.W.) and October 2nd (A.F.J., J.H.W.R.). One seen near Kidderminster from September 22nd to October 6th (R.M., B.T.N.).

ITT. One reported at Blithfield on September lst (G.S., L.S.) and one at Branston on the unusual date of December 15th (T.C.).

165. Greenshank. I. At Brandon three seen on April 14th and one or two from July 25th to October 13th with a maximum of four on September lst (B.M.C.G.); single birds reported at Alvecote between July 14th and September 14th (G.A.A.); up to three seen at Bodymoor Heath from July 14th to September 22nd (E.A.H.); single birds at Hams Hall between August 11th (G.J.U.) and August 27th (W.J.A., R.G.H.); two at Hartshill Sewage Farm between August 17th (D.E.J.) and October 13th (J.Wa.); one at Packington on September 24th (J.R.W.); and one at Wormleighton on September 3rd (B.O.S.).

TI. One present at Westwood on May 4th (C.P.B.). A bird seen at Upton Warren on May 29th (A.R.D.) and up to five present between July 12th (A.F.J.) and October 13th (R.M., B.T.N.). Up to three seen near Kidderminster from September 3rd (R.M.) to October 6th (R.M., B.T.N.).

III. At Blithfield one seen on May 5th (E.S.C., M.J.I.) and then, usually up to three, from July 6th (A.F.J., L.F.D., F.E.P.) until September 29th (F.C.G.), the most being nine on September 7th (K.G.C.). One or two reported at Belvide from April 21st (several observers) until June 16th (J.H.W.R.), apart f rom five on May 8th (P.D.H., A.F.J.), and then single birds from July 7th (T.E.C.P.) to August 10th fA.F.J.). One seen at Branston on May 19th, up to three during August, and one on September 29th (T.C.). Three present at Cannock Reservoir on September 5th and two on the 11th (R.A.H.). One flew over Bagots Park on June 23rd (J.L.), one at Hopwas on August 18th (G.A.A.), three at Clay Mills on September 22nd and October 6th (E.S.C.); and one at Landywood on October 10th (D.S.).

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169. Knot. III. Single birds reported at Belvide on March 20th (A.J.D.), May 25th (A.F.J.) and December 18th (C.R.); at Blithfield from August 24th (L.S.) until the 27th (D.M.T.); and at Cannock Reservoir on October 26th (several observers), December 14th (D.D.) and 15th (J.P.).

170. Purple Sandpiper. III. One identified at Belvide on May 18th was the first in the Club's area since 1961 (M.J.W.).

171. Little Stint. I. One seen at Hartshill Sewage Farm on October 3rd (J.Wa.).

ITT. A bird reported at Cannock Reservoir on September 15th (J.P.) and one or two at Blithfield between September 20th (J.L.) and the 29th (several observers).

173. Temminck's Stint. III. One present at Cannock Reservoir from September 9th to 23rd (R.A.H.).

178. Dunlin. Numbers on autumn passage much below normal. Reports from many waters.

T. U p to nine at Middleton between July 11th and October 27th (E.A.H.) was the most recorded.

IT. The most reported was four at Bittell on dates between October 20th (K.G.C., T.A.W.) and 25th (K.G.C.).

ITT. Spring peaks noted of eight at Blithfield on May 5th (E.S.C., M..J.I.) and of 26 at Belvide on April 20th (A.F.J.). Autumn numbers at Blithfield were small apart from peaks of 19 on August 18th (A.R.D.) and 32 on October 26th (R.R.).

179. Curlew-Sandpiper. III. Two seen at Belvide on May 18th (A.E.C., T.E.C.P.) and 19th (several observers) and at Blithfield on September 22nd (B.C.G.).

181. Sanderling. Influx noted on May 18th. ITr. Present at Belvide from April 30th until June 12th (D.S.), usually

about three, but with 15 on May 18th (A.R.D., A.F.J., J.H.W.R.) and one on July 20th (C.R.). One seen at Blithfield on May 5th (E.S.C.) and five at Cannock Reservoir on May 18th (R.A.H., J.L.).

184. Ruff. I. Up to three seen at Brandon from March 28th to April 7th and one between July 7th and October 21st (B.M.C.G.). Three seen at Hams Hall on April 28th (H.T.L.), one on August 11th and 22nd (G.J.U.) and five on October 20th (H.T.L.). Single birds seen at Mancetter on May 9th (E.H.T.), Alvecote on September 13th (H.R.P.), Brandon on the 15th (A.J.R.), Bodymoor Heath on the 22nd (H.T.L.) and two at Hartshill Sewage Farm on August 27th (M.M.) and September 1 st (D.J.K.).

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II. One or two seen at Upton Warren between March 31st (several observers) and May 13th (A.F.J.) with four on April 18th (B.B.D., A.F.J.) and single birds noted from August 28th (A.R.D.) to September 11th (A.F.J.). Single birds seen at Bittell on September 9th (A.R.D.), October 7th and October 18th (K.G.C.). Up to three reported near Kidderminster between September 12th (R.M.) and L5th (R.M., B.T.N.).

TIT. Noted at Blithfield from July 27th (D.M.T.) until September 29th (several observers), usually around four, but with 21, which included a party of 20 in flight, on September 8th (E.S.C., A.R.D., B.R.D., G.S.). One or two seen at Belvide between March 30th (several observers) and June 16th (B.R.D.) and again between August 15th (J.L.) and September 21st (C.R., D.S.). One present at Branston on August 18th (T.C.) and at Whitting-ton Sewage Farm on July 20th (R.M.) and November 3rd (R.C.B.).

186. Black-winged Stilt. III. One seen at Belvide from June 11th (D.S.) until the 16th (several observers) was a first record for the county and the Club's area.

187/188. Grey/Red-necked Phalarope. I. One seen at LifTord Lake, King's Norton, Birmingham, on October 3rd (B.L.).

193. Arctic Skua. I. An immature seen at Brandon, with gulls, on October 15th (B.M.C.G.).

198. Greater Black-backed Gull. Seen in small numbers at many waters usually in January, November and December. One or two birds on most occasions but some reports of larger numbers.

199. Lesser Black-backed Gull. I. 400 seen at roost at Shustoke on January 4th (H.T.L.) and also at Bartley on February 11th (B.B.D.). Flocks of up to 500 regular throughout the summer in Tame Valley with 1,200 at roost at Packington Gravel Pits on August 30th (H.T.L.). The maximum noted at Branston was 1,500 on October 15th and 21st (B.M.C.G.).

III. About 500 at Brereton Colliery on November 12th (B.C.G.) and 2,000 present at Cannock Reservoir roost on December 29th (A.R.D.). Two of the Scandinavian race noted at Belvide on October 13th (D.S.).

200. Herring-Gull. I. About 2,000 estimated at Hams Hall on Septem-ber 10th (R.G.H.).

III. About 1,000 present at Cannock Reservoir roost in early January (R.A.H.).

201. Common Gull. Rather more records than usual mainly in autumn and winter months. Always small numbers, seven on March 27th (A.R.D.) at Bartley Reservoir (I) being the most reported.

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202. Glaucous Gull. I. One seen at Bartley Reservoir on March 27th (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.).

TT. A bird present at Bittell from March 14th (K.G.C., A.F.J.) until the 16th (M.J.I., T.G.).

ITT. One seen at Blithfield on December 28th (J.H.W.R.).

207. Little Gull. IT. An adult seen at Upton Warren on August 7th (A.R.D.).

ITT. Single birds reported at Belvide on August 17th (C.R., G.J.U.), 18th (A.F.J.) and on October 20th (G.S.) and at Blithfield on September 5th (A.T.C.) and 7th (J.L.).

208. Black-headed Gull. I. The most reported at various waters was: 3,000 at Shustoke/Hams Hall roosts on January 4th (H.T.L.), 700 at Bartley on February 23rd (J.R.M.); and 800 at Brandon on December 29th (B.M.C.G.).

TTT. About 3,000 was the maximum noted at the Cannock Reservoir roost in January and December (R.A.H.) and at the Belvide roost on December 10th (D.S.).

211. Kittiwake. ITT. Single birds seen, usually after gales, at Cannock Reservoir on March 17th and (found dead) on May 25th (R.A.H.) and November 2nd (D.D.). At Blithfield at least 10 were present on August 14th (E.S.C.), one on August 18th (E.S.C., A.R.D., M.J.I.), three on the 23rd (I.J.D.), and one on September 8th (Y.M.W.) and 9th (M.J:I.). One seen at Belvide on October 13th (D.S.).

212. Black Tern. No marked spring or autumn concentrations. T. At Alvecote one seen on April 20th (R.G.H.) and 21st (G.A.A.),

four on August 6th (R.G.H.) and three on September 12th (G.A.A.). One or two reported at Chesterton Mill Pool on April 19th (F.R.), Chesterton Church Pool on July 27th (several observers) and at Leamington Spa Reservoir on July 28th and September 1st (E.J.B.).

TT. One present at Upton Warren on April 21st (several observers) and two on September 5th (T.A.W.); at Westwood two on May 25th and one on September 28th (C.P.B.); one near Kidderminster on August 23rd (R.M.); and one at Bittell from August 26th to 28th (K.G.C., M.F., T.A.W.).

TTI. At Blithfield one or two present on May 9th (F.C.G.) and 19th (A.J.R.) and again between August 16th (G.S.) and October 4th (J.L.). Seen at Belvide, up to three, between April 21st (several observers) and June 28th (A.J.D.) and one or two on a very few dates between July 28th (several observers) and October 22nd (A.J.D.). One present at Cannock Reservoir on April 27th

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(R.A.H.) and occurred, one or two, from August 11th (A.R.D.) until October 6th (A.R.D., B.R.D., J.H.W.R.) apart from a peak number of 12 on September 5th (R.A.H.). A bird seen at Betley on April 21st (J.F.B.), at Gailey on July 6th (D.S.) and September 29th (A.C.W.), and at Rudyard on September 2nd (H.W.K.).

216. Caspian Tern. III. One seen at Belvide on July 20th (C.R.) was the first record for the Club's area. Points noted were: larger than Black-headed Gulls which were present, black cap, short forked tail, heavy orange-red bill, tern-like flight and primaries noticeably dark on under-surface.

217. Common Tern*. I. At Alvecote two seen on April 21st, one or two on August 4th and 25th, six on September 29th (G.A. A.) and one on October 29th (W.J.A.). A bird present at Brandon on June 30th (B.M.C.G.), one in Sutton Park on July 20th and two at Bodymoor Heath on the 21st (G.J.U.).

TI. Two seen at Upton Warren on May 18th (T.A.W.) and up to four between July 12th (M.J.I.) and October 23rd (A.R.D.). Noted at Bittell, up to three, between August 25th (B.T.N.) and October 13th (T.A.W.).

TIT. A pair bred at Branston (T.C.). Noted at Belvide from May 8th (A.F.J.) until June 19th (C.R.), with nine on May 18th (A.R.D., A.F.J., J.H.W.R.), two on July 28th (L.W.) and one on August 17th (A.F.J.). At Blithfield two present from June 16th (E.S.C.) to 30th (A.R.D., P.D.H.), three on July 7th (E.S.C., M.J.I.) and up to seven between August 3rd (A.F.J.) and October 5th (D.J.M.). At Cannock Reservoir four seen on May 10th (R.A.H.) and 16 on May 18th (J.L.) and then up to five between August 4th (A.R.D.) and October 25th (D.D.). Seen more frequently than usual at Stowe Pool, Lichfield, with one or two between August 30th and September 24th (F.E.P.). One noted at Tittesworth on May 18th (A.G.F.).

218. Arctic Tern. I. Two seen at Bodymoor Heath on October 20th (H.T.L.) and one at Brandon on August 25th (B.M.C.G.). One flew south-west over Coventry on November 7th (B.M.C.G.).

TT. One or two identified at Bittell from September 15th (B.B.D.) to 23rd (K.G.C., M.F.) and at Upton Warren on the 21st (T.A.W.).

ITT. A bird seen at Cannock Reservoir on May 25th and up to five on dates between August 16th (R.A.H.) and November 2nd (A.R.M.B.) with 10 on September 20th (R.A.H.). Single birds occurred at Belvide on May 9th (D.S.), at subsidence pools near Cannock on July 27th (D.J.M.) and at Blithfield on August 4th (A.R.M.B.) and 17th (A.F.J.).

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217/218. Common/Arctic Terns. Many reports, all being small numbers apart from a party of 32 flying south over Blithfield (TIT) on May 19th (A.R.D., T.G., M.J.I.) and 20 over Alvecote (I) on September 8th (G.A.A.).

222. Little Tern. l i t . Single birds seen at Belvide on May 1 st (P.D.H.) and Blithfield on June 23rd (A.R.D., J.H.W.R.).

223. Sandwich Tern. I. Two flew south at Bodymoor Heath on July 21st (H.T.L.) and one seen at Earlswood on September 2nd (R.S.C.).

III. A bird reported at Branston from September 22nd to 29th (T.C.) and one at Blithfield on October 13th (B.Cr.).

232. Stock-Dove*. I. Maximum seen at Brandon was 10 on December 28th (B.M.C.G.).

II. Seven noted at Bittell on March 17th (A.R.D., B.R.D.) and up to five at Upton Warren in breeding season (A.R.D.).

HI. 12 reported near Penkridge on April 7th (G.S.); 11 near Bunker's Hill Wood on June 4th (B.T.N.); 20 at Belvide in mid-June (D.S.); 20 at Burntwood on August 14th and said to be fairly common around Cannock Reservoir (R.A.H.); 50 at Blithfield on November 17th (T.W.F., J.L., L.S.).

234. Wood-Pigeon*. Largest flocks reported were:— I. 400 at Brandon on March 3rd (B.M.C.G.); 200 at Packington

on March 31st (K.S.); and 300 at Alvecote on December 22nd (G.A.A., M.A.A.).

II. 400 amongst kale on December 30th at Tardebigge (J.R.H.). III. 250 in Blithfield area on November 10th (A.R.D.); 400 in

Weston-under-Lizard area on December 1st (J.L.); and 400 at Belvide on December 14th (D.S.).

235. Turtle-Dove*. No changes in breeding status reported. I. Three birds remained throughout the winter with Collared Doves

at Sutton Coldfield (M.H.) the Club's first wintering record. (Reported in various parts of the country—see British Birds, Jan., 1969. Ed.).

II. Largest parties were 12 at Elmly Lovett on May 19th (G.C.L.), six at Upton Warren on June 12th (A.R.D.) and 14 at Tardebigge on June 25th (J.R.H.).

I.H. 15 noted at Belvide on August 24th (C.R.). Collared Dove.* Summer records, with breeding established in

most cases, reported from the following areas:— I. Alvecote (G.A.A.), Kingsbury, Olton (R.S.C.), Sutton Coldfield

(G.E.L., J.L.), Alcester (T.C.S.), Nuneaton (H.L.), Weddington (C.Pe.), Bulkington (J.Te.), Leamington Spa—several areas, Sherbourne, Newboldi Pacey, Charlecote, Chesterton (many

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observers). Breeding in several areas of Coventry and Birming-ham and 20 birds seen near Pershore Road, Birmingham, on December 4th (G.C.L.).

II. Crowle (K.H.T.), Pershore (A.W.C.), Evesham (T.C.S.), Droit-wich (C.P.B.) and Kidderminster (L.R.B.).

III. Hilton (T.E.C.P.), Rushall (A.E.C.), Weston Park (J.L.), Landy-wood, Wolverhampton, Brewood, Belvide (D.S.), Colton (R.R.), Brownhills, Cannock (D.D.), Blithfield (A.R.D.), Lichfield (G.A.A.), Stafford (D.E.J.C.), Tamworth (R.G.H.), Trentham Park (G.F.). 60 reported at Great Chatwell on November 26th (G.Be.), 40 at Hatherton in October (B.Cr.), 40 at Blymhill on November 28th (G.Be.), 56 at Essington on September 17th (D.S.), 24 at Hilton on November 7th (T.E.C.P.) and 20 at Whittington on August 2nd (R.G.H.).

237. Cuckoo*. No changes in status reported. II. One established itself at West Hagley throughout the summer

as a garden bird (L.R.B.).

241. Barn-Owl*. I. 17 sightings reported mainly from the northern half of the county.

II. Four reports only—from Tenbury (B.J.M.), Cofton Richards (K.G.C., J.M.H.), Bittell (K.G.C., M.F., M.J.I.) and Frankley (K.H.T.).

III. 20 reports covering most areas except the most northern parts. Nesting confirmed at Norton Green, Stoke-on-Trent, Pipe Rid-ware Church (per F.C.G.), Blithfield (L.S.) and at Penkridge.

246. Little Owl*. I. 23 reports received covering most of north and mid-Warwickshire. Nesting confirmed at Nunhold (E.E.G.) and at Coombe where nest had unusual number of seven young (C.H.P.).

II. Nine records received scattered over the county. III. 22 reports received, the largest concentration being in mid-

Staffordshire. Breeding record confirmed at Norton Colliery (H.W.K.).

247. Tawny Owl*. No changes in status reported.

248. Long-eared Owl*. III. Young birds located on Cannock Chase on June 15th (A.R.M.B.) and July 5th (R.S.C., A.F.J.). Said to be present in Bagots Wood (per F.C.G.).

249. Short-eared Owl*. III. Bred on north Staffordshire moors (several observers). Birds on passage noted on February 25th (J.L.) at Bagots Park, where it is now regular; at Essington from April 9th to 13th (D.S.); Belvide April 20th (A.R.D., D.S.); Burntwood on July 19th (R.A.H.); and at Tittesworth on October 5th (A.G.F.).

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252. Nightjar*. I. Attempted to breed at Brandon Woods (C.H.P.) the first Warwickshire record for some years. Heard at Packington on May 4th (H.T.L.) but not subsequently.

TIT. Usual records from Cannock Chase where about 10 birds heard on June 29th (C.H.P.). At least two heard at Enville on June 6th (R.C.B.) and on Hanchurch Hills on June 12th (T.W.B.).

255. Swift*. Arrived in general earlier than usual. TIT. Concentrations of at least 1,000 noted over Blithfield on May

12th (R.A.H.) and over Belvide on the 22nd (C.R.). One seen at Belvide on June 5th with brilliant white chin and throat (A.R.M.B.). A concentration of up to 150 seen at Merryton Low, north Staffordshire moors, on July 7th (F.C.G.). A party of 200 moved south-west over Belvide in advance of thunder clouds on August 15th (J.L.).

258. Kingfisher*. More breeding records but several reports of damage from flooding in May.

T. Bred at Alvecote (G.A.A.), Hams Hall (E.A.H.), Bodymoor Heath (E.A.H.), Coombe (C.H.P.), Bubbenhall (C.H.P.) and Solihull (R.S.C.) and seen in breeding season at Earlswood (J.D.M.W.) and Leamington Spa (E.J.B.).

IT. Bred at Bittell (K.G.C., M.F.) and reported in breeding season from Dowles Brook (F.F., R.M., B.T.N.), Alfrick (F.F.), Hurcott Pool (F.F., R.M.) and Wilden (R.M., B.T.N.).

TTT. Nested near Hopwas Wood (R.A.H.), Fradley Wood (M.J.A.), Stourton (A.V.F., D.S.) and Coombes Valley (G.L.) and present in breeding season at Ellastone, river Dove (A.G.F.), Brewood (A.R.D.), Stafford (G.S.), Ipstones (G.S.), Blithfield area (several observers), Yoxall (B.C.G.) and Seven Springs, Cannock Chase (D.A.H.).

261. Hoopoe. I. One seen at Wooton Wawen in early May (E.V.R.); at Brandon on May l l t h and 12th (B.M.C.G.); and at Idlicote on May 17th and 18th (B.O.S.).

nr . A bird seen at Blithfield on April 28th and 29th (C.D.T.M.). One reported feeding on lawn at Wednesbury on September 19th (L.M.W.).

262. Green Woodpecker*. No significant changes in status reported. (TT. First summer records reported at Fradley Wood since 1965

(M.J.A.). Five birds seen in Sherbrook Valley, Cannock Chase, on November 1st (D.S.).

263. Greater Spotted Woodpecker*. IT. Fewer records than usual from Sheriffs Lench (T.C.S.) and

Tenbury (B.J.M.). III. Numbers unchanged in Fradley Wood (M.J.A.).

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264. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker*. J. Nested at Oldbury in alder (M.M.). Noted in oreeding season

at Packington (K.S.) and near Leamington Spa (E.J.B.). II. Noted in breeding season at Westwood (C.P.B., D.S.), Randan

Wood (F.F.), Pipers Hill Wood (A.F.J.), Wyre Forest (R.C.B., A.R.D.), Wolverley (R.M.), Belbroughton (R.M.) and Wassell Wood—three pairs (R.M.).

III. Present in breeding season at Weston Park (J.L.), Belvide (J.L., C.R., D.S.), Fradley Wood (M.J.A.) and Weeford area (A.R.M.B.).

265. Wryneck. II. One picked up at Catshill on September 16th died soon afterwards (F.F.).

III. One seen in Sutton Coldfield on September 10th (E.M.R.) and at Wednesfield on the 12th (D.S.).

272. Skylark*. 1. 100 present on October 21st and December 27th at Brandon where 35 pairs bred on 260 acres compared with 30 pairs in 1967 (B.M.C.G.). Movement to the south noted at Wilnecote on September 19th and October 4th (G.A.A., M.A.A.). 200 seen at Bodymoor Heath on December 26th (J.R.W.).

II. At Tardebigge flocks noted of 120 on January 1st and 150 on the 21st (J.R.H.). 200 seen at Upton Warren on February 6th (R.M.).

III. Flocks noted of 125 on January 9th (R.M.) at Kinver Edge; 100 at Burntwood on September 26th (R.A.H.); and 250 at Essington on December 27th (C.R., D.S.). Parties flew from the east throughout the morning of October 20th at Blithfield (J.L., L.S.).

274. Swallow*. I. At Brandon a roost of about 2,000, which included Sand-Martins noted from August 14th to 27th (B.M.C.G.). At Bedworth Sloughs the roost, in reed-mace, reached a maximum of 3,000 on October 5th and all birds had left on the 6th (R.H.). At the roost at the Nook, Bedworth, also in reed-mace there was an estimated total of 30,000 on October 3rd (E.H.T.), 3,000 on the 5th (B.W.) and no birds on the 12th (H.L.). A very late bird seen at Sherbourne on December 7th (J.A.H.).

II. One albino reared in a brood of four at Grimley (N.M.L.). About 300 birds roosted in reeds at Upton Warren on August 28th (A.R.D.).

III. Roosts of about 5,000 located at Holder Bridge Pool on August 12th and at Doxey Marshes, Stafford, on the 25th (F.C.G.).

276. House-Martin*. March arrivals noted in different areas although surprisingly no Swallows reported in that month.

II. 50 flew south-east over Upton Warren on August 14th (A.R.D.).

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211. Sand-Martin*. 1. At Alvecote main autumn movement noted on August 8th and 17th when lbU birds were present (G.A.A.). 250 present at Bedworth Sloughs on August 5th and 19th (H.L.) and 300 at Brandon during August (B.M.C.G.).

II. 500 noted near Kidderminster at end of August (R.M., B.T.N.). III. Maximum concentrations reported were: 1,500 at Belvide on

May 7th (J.H.W.R.); 800 around BlithJield on August 18th (A.R.D.); and 500 at Gailey on September 21st (D.S.).

279. Raven. II. One seen on the Malvern Hills on April 28th (M.J.L) and two at Great Witley on December 1st (C.R.L.R.).

280. Carrion-Crow*. Birds with varying amounts of white reported f rom several localities.

I. About 500 counted at Packington Gravel Pits on August 30th (H.T.L.).

II. 50 noted at Upton Warren on July 27th (A.R.D.). III. Largest flocks reported were 250 at Whittington Sewage Farm

on August 4th (D.S.); 30 at Blithfield on October 20th (J.L.); and 70 at Bagnall on November 30th (A.G.F.).

281. Hooded Crow. III. One present at Whittington Sewage Farm on November 3rd (R.C.B.).

282. Rook*. No changes in status reported.

283. Jackdaw*. L About 500 counted at Packington Gravel Pits on August 30th (H.T.L.) with Carrion-Crows.

II. 300 noted at Upton Warren on November 17th (D.S.). III. 400 at Whittington Sewage Farm on March 10th (R.M., B.T.N.).

284. Magpie*. No changes in status reported. 285. Nutcracker. III. One seen and photographed in a garden at

Stapenhill, Burton-upon-Trent, on October 27th (S.J.) was the first record for the county and the Club's area and was pre-sumably part of the remarkable east coast invasion.

286. Jay*. III. 50 noted on Cannock Chase on November 1st (D.S.). Three seen on November 7th at Bagnall where rarely seen by observer (A.G.F.).

288. Great Tit*. II. Of 29 boxes set up in dense deciduous wood at Wood Norton eight occupied by Great Tits, six by Blue Tits and one by Coal-Tit (A.W.C.). Several nest boxes at a Wyre Forest site were shared by Great Tits with Pied Flycatchers and with Blue Tits (L.R.B.).

289. Blue Tit*. I. Substantial increase noted in Edgbaston Park area, Birmingham (G.J.U.).

III. Persistent wallpaper tearing observed in bedroom at Stafford for several weeks from late July (G.S.).

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290. Coal-Tit*. No changes in status reported.

292. Marsh-Tit*. II. 25 counted at Dowles Brook on February 18th (R.M., B.T.N.). Noted feeding on comfrey seeds and honey-suckle berries in early August (F.F.).

111. Said to be less common than Willow-Tit in Belvide, Essington and Cannock Reservoir areas (D.S.).

293. Willow-Tit*. 11. Family in Kidderminster garden fed on grated cheese (L.R.B.).

294. Long-tailed Tit*. I. The most reported was 20 at Brandon in November (B.M.C.G.) and 14 at Alvecote on November 10th (G.A.A.). Birds came repeatedly in January and* December to town garden in Nuneaton to feed on American blight on apple-tree (H.L.).

II. Largest concentrations were 60 at Dowles Brook on February 18th (R.M., B.T.N.); 15 at Mathon on September 21st (D.I.N.); 15 at Tardebigge on September 28th (J.R.H.); 12 at Franche on October 7th (B.T.N.); 20 in Lickey Woods on November 7th (R.M.); 25 at Devil's Spittleful on November 13th (R.M.); 20 in Wyre Forest on November 17th (D.S.); and 20 at Eymore Wood on November 20th (R.M.). Seven visited a Bromsgrove garden, where not previously recorded, on November Ist (T.A.W.).

III, Largest numbers reported were: 15 at Seighford on January 7th (G.S.); 20 at Stourton on February 25th (D.S.); 18 at Cannock Reservoir on October 5th (F.C.G.); 13 at Hopwas on October 20th (G.A.A.); 40 at Belvide on October 26th (D.S.); 25 on Cannock Chase on November 1st (D.S.); 20 at Haughton on November 4th (E.O.); 12 at Landywood on November 8th (D.S.); and 15 at Milford on December 26th (G.S.).

295. Bearded Tit. I. Three seen in Warwick Castle Park on March 17th (O.L.L., T.W.L.). At Brandon up to three noted from February 11th until March 30th and from October 15th to 21st (B.M.C.G.).

II. A bird seen at Upton Warren on March 3rd (R.M., B.T.N.).

296. Nuthatch*. I. Reported as getting scarcer in north-east area of Sutton Park where now only one pair (A.R.M.B.).

II. Only one record by observer from Tenbury where said to be uncommon (B.J.M.).

298. Tree-Creeper*. II. Eight counted at Dowles Brook on February 18th (R.M., B.T.N.).

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299. Wren*. L Increased to 15 pairs in Brandon census area of 260 acres compared with nine pairs in 1967, six in 1960 and two in J 965 (B.M.C.G.). 15 territories held in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, a slight decrease (G.J.U.). Noticeable increase reported in Tame Valley in winter months (H.T.L.).

300. Dipper*. I. Warwickshire records are few but one reported near Henley-in-Arden on May 20th (E.A.E., E.E.G.).

II. Reported from Dowles Brook, with five pairs on February 18th (R.M., B.T.N.); Powick Old Bridge (C.P.B.); Belbroughton (F.F.); Tenbury (B.J.M.); Arley (R.M.) and near Kidder-minster (R.M.). One present at Bittell from December 6th to 14th (G.D.P.).

III. Reported from Tittesworth (J.F.B.), Swallow Moss area (H.T.L.), Warslow, Quanford, Ecton, Mappleton, Milldale, Longnor (A.G.F.), Alton (S.H.S.), Dovedale, Wolfscotedale (F.C.G.) and Knypersley area (H.W.K.).

301. Mistlc-Thrush*. I. Two pairs again nested in live switch-gear at Hams Hall sub-station (E.A.H.). 15 seen at Wolston on September 1st (J.W.).

11. 32 noted at Feckenham on October 10th (R.M.). 111. Increase in breeding numbers noted at Fradley Wood (M.J.A.).

Flocks seen of 15 at Oulton on September 1st (T.W.B.) and 30 at MarchLngton on September 8th (R.A.H.).

302. Fieldfare. October 19th-20th was a distinct passage period. Birds far more numerous than Redwings.

I. One flew over Birmingham City centre on January 10th (A.J.R.). On October 19th about 750 flew south-west at Alvecote (G.A.A., M.A.A.) where birds plentiful in autumn. On the 20th flocks up to 60 birds arrived all day in the Middleton area from the north-east (E.A.H.) and exceptionally high numbers reported in Tame Valley from mid-October to early December (H.T.L.). Heavy passage noted over Sutton Coldfield on October 19th and 20th to south-west (A.R.M.B.). About 250 in October at Brandon; about 1,500 noted on November 3rd in bushes along Birmingham-Fazeley canal (E.A.H.); 300 at Caldecote on November 21st (D.J.); and 600 at Wolston on November 23rd (J.W.).

II. Most reported were 300 at Feckenham on March 3rd (J.R.M.); 250 at Tardebigge on March 22nd and 24th (J.R.H.); 700 at Cooksey on November 6th (R.M.); 550 flying south during after-noon of November 10th at Redditch (K.G.C.); 1,000 at Warndon on November 25th (B.T.N.); and very common in the Lenches in December (T.C.S.).

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ITT. Largest concentrations were 400 at Walton on January 7th (J.W.H.); 350 at Dunstall on February 11th (B.C.G.); about 1,000 at Kidsgrove on April 13th (A.S.); on October 20th parties Hew from the east at Blithfield all morning (J.L., L.S.) and passage, with flocks up to 50 birds, noted at Brownhills (D.D.); 800 at Belvide on November 16th (D.S.) and 19th (J.L.); about 2,500 on November 16th in Yoxall area was largest number ever noted there by observer (B.C.G.); parties totalling 1,200 birds flew to west at Milton on November 22nd (A.V.F.); 400 at Blithfleld on December 8th where 350 flew to south-west on the 29th (A.R.D.); and 600 at Stafford Castle on December 20th (P.T.).

303. Song-Thrush*. III. A decrease in breeding numbers reported from Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). About 60 seen at Essington on August 2nd and 50 at Whittington on December 1st (D.S.).

304. Redwing. Distinct passage October 19th-20th period. I. Passage to south-west noted over hour Oaks, Sutton Coldfield,

on October 19th and 20th (A.R.M.B.). At Alvecote 150 flew south-west on October 19th and many flocks to south-east on November 10th (G.A.A., M.A.A.). About 100 present at Brandon during October (B.M.C.G.) and 200 noted at Oldbury (H.L.) and Caldecote (D.J.) on November 21st.

II. 2,300 estimated going to roost in Eymore Wood on December 1st (R.M.). Common in Lenches, but less so than Fieldfares, in December (T.C.S.).

III. Continuous movement to south-west and south-east noted at Blithfield on October 20th (several observers) and over Stafford on night of October 21st (D.E.J.C.). 250 noted at Belvide on November 16th and 200 at Whittington Sewage Farm on December 22nd (D.S.).

307. Ring-Ouzel*. I. One stayed several days in early April in Ullen-hall Garden (per A.T.C.) and one seen at Packington on April 23rd (K.S.). Present at Brandon from October 15th to 27th with 12 on the first date and five on the 2lst (B.M.C.G.).

IT.. Two seen at Upton Warren on March 24th (R.M., B.T.N.). Party of about 10 birds noted feeding on rowan and hawthorn berries on Malvern Hills on September 21st and 22nd (D.T.N.). One at Cofton Richards on October 10th (J.M.H.).

III. Nested on north Staffordshire moors with at least three pairs in Blackbrook Valley (A.Q.F.). Single birds seen on passage at Sedgeley on March 29th (C.R.) and near Tamworth on October 4th (R.G.H.).

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308. Blackbird*. I. Several records of singing birds in Birmingham City centre (A.J.R.). 25 territories held in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham (G.J.U.). Increased to 22 pairs from 18 in 1967 on 260 acres census area at Brandon (B.M.C.G.).

TIT. No significant change in breeding population in Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). Influx noted at Cannock Reservoir on October 5th (J.L.).

311. Whcatcar*. Many records of birds in small numbers on spring and autumn passage.

T. Breeding suspected near Kingsbury (H.T.L.). Maximum at Brandon was 10 on March 27th (B.M.C.G.). Seven noted near Little Hay on August 30th (G.J.U.). An early migrant seen at Offchurch on February 23rd (I.M.E.).

II. Nine seen on September 3rd on passage on Malvern Hills where young seen on July 28th (D.I.N.).

III. Nests seen at Dove Head on May 31st (A.G.F.) and at Wolfscote-dale on June 2nd (F.C.G.). Young seen in breeding season on north Staffordshire moors at Gradbach Hill (F.C.G.) and birds at Warslow and Onecote (J.L., L.S.). Nested on rubbish tip at Norton Colliery (H.W.K.). 12 noted on passage at Berry Hill on March 25th (H.W.K.) and at Essington on August 14th (D.S.).

Greenland Wheatear. Birds with characteristics of this race seen at (II) Goosehill Wood and Atch Lench on May 19th (G.C.L.) and (III) at Essington on April 22nd (D.S.) and Swallow Moss on May 19th (F.C.G.).

317. Stonechat. I. One seen at Upton Fields on March 9th (O.L.L., T.W.L.); one at Chesterton Church Pool on October 6th (per E.J.B.); up to four at Brandon between October 13th and December 28th (B.M.C.G.); one in Sutton Park on October 27th (J.P.), November 24th and December lst (G.E.L.); one or two at Hartshill Sewage Farm on November 3rd (J.Wa.) and December 15th (D. H.); two at Bodymoor Heath on November 17th (H.T.L.); and two at Alvecote on December 22nd (G.A.A.).

IT. One noted at Worcester on January 17th (W.J.L.); at Alvechurch on March 27th (K.G.C.); at Cofton Hackett on April 28th (A.R.D.); one or two at Upton Warren between September 26th (W.E.O.) and December 22nd (T.A.W.); up to three near Kidderminster from September 29th to end of December (R.M., B.T.N.); one at Cofton Richards on October 14th (J.M.H.); one at Hartlebury Common on November 17th and December lst (R.M., B.T.N.); and one on Malvern Hills on December 8th (D.I.N.).

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ITT. One or two seen at Berry Hill on January 3rd, October 14th and December 2nd (H.W.K.); one at Cheslyn Hay on March 18th (G.\V,W.1; single birds seen on Cannock Chase on March 24th (D.S.) and April 20th (A.F.J.) and up to three from October 26th (several observers) to December 7th (A.R.M.B., D.S.); one or two at Cannock Reservoir on April 2nd, May 10th and 11th and between September 13th (R.A.H.) and end of year (D.D.); one at Norton on September 28th (H.W.K.); two at Westport on October 9th and November 3rd (H.W.K., A.S.); one at Trentham Park on October 13th (G.F., I.J.D.); one or two at Blithfield between October 20th and end of year (several observers); two at Clay Mills on November 20th (E.S.C.); one or two at Belvide from November 30th (A.F.J.) to end of year (D.S.); and one at Branston on December 8th (T.C.).

318. Whinchat*. I. Present in breeding season at Alvecote (G.A.A.), Lighthorne (O.L.L., T.W.L.), Offchurch (I.M.E.), Coventry Canal area (C.H.P.), Ryton Gravel Pit (C.H.P.), Bermuda (H.L.), Hartshill Sewage Farm (C.Pe.) but not thought to have hred at. any of the former sites in Nuneaton area (H.L.). Bred at Radway (B.O.S.), Ufton Fields (R.A.)—six pairs, and at Wyken Tip (C.H.P.). Five on August 27th was the maximum noted on passage at Hams Hall (W.J.A.).

TI. Bred at Eymore Wood, Burlingham, Devil's Spittleful (R.M.), Upton Warren (A.R.D., A.F.J.), Castlemorton (D.I.N.) and at Sheriffs Lench the first breeding record there for about 20 years (T.C.S.). Present at Westwood in breeding season (B.B.D.). Eight on September 7th was the maximum noted on passage at Upton Warren (D.I.N.).

ITT. Bred at Whittington Sewage Farm (D.S.), Highgate Common (R.C.B., R.M.), Sutton Park (E.M.R.), Blackbrook Valley (A.G.F.), Brownhills (D.D.), Cannock Chase (P.T.), Brownhills Park (D.D.), Cresswell Marshes (D.E.J.C.), Wolfescotedale, Gradback Hill (F.C.G.) and common in fields around Tittes-worth in breeding season (A.G.F.). Said to be absent in breeding season in area within seven miles to north and west of Wolver-hampton (D.S.). 12 on August 1st (D.S.) was maximum on passage at Essington.

320. Redstart*. No changes in status reported. I. Four or five singing birds at Packington in June (K.S.).

II. 12 in song at Dowles Brook on May 26th (R.M., B.T.N.). III. A pair which nested at Landywood (D.S.) was the only breeding

record noted, by observer in that area. 321. Black Redstart*. I. Pair seen in summer in City centre, Birming-

ham, and from behaviour believed to have bred (R.S.C., A.H., M.J.T.). One present at Upton on May 3rd (B.O.S.) and at Draycote on December 19th (N.S.).

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IT. Immature seen at Tardebigge on July 26th (F.F.) and a bird on Malvern Hills on November 1st (D.I.N.).

322. Nightingale?. I. Reported from North Cubbington Woods (G.H.K.) and Loxiley Woods (R.A., E.E.G.).

IT. Singing birds heard at Sheriffs Lench (T.C.S.), Atch Lench, Monk Wood (F.F.) and Wood Norton (A.W.C.). Six singing birds noted at Crovvle and present in two territories not occupied in two previous seasons (K.H.T.).

325. Robin*. No significant changes in status reported. T. 19 territories occupied in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham (G.J.U.).

Decrease recorded on 260 acres at Brandon where seven pairs located as against 10 in 1967 (B.M.C.G.).

327. Grasshopper-Warbler*. Heard in breeding season from most parts of region apart from extreme northern parts of Staffordshire.

1. At least 10 sang at Brailes Hill on April 21st (A.F.J.) and 12 at Coughton Park on the 26th (J.D.M.W.). 29 reports of localities with singing birds in breeding season.

TI. At Tardebigge six singing birds located in summer where only one pair in previous years (J.R.H.) and at Wood Norton an area of recently cleared and planted woodland was occupied by six pairs (A.W.C.). 14 reports of localities with singing birds in breeding season.

TIT. Seven singing birds heard on June 15th in Sherbrook Valley, Cannock Chase, area (A.R.M.B.) and five heard in summer in Bagots Park (J.L.). 13 reports of localities with singing birds in breeding season.

329. Savi's Warbler. T. One seen and heard at close quarters at Brandon on April 21st (B.M.C.G.) and was first record for the county and the Club's area. Points noted were: no streaks on upper-parts, fan-shaped slightly barred tail with rounded end, white chin, and song slower and briefer than that of Grasshopper-Warbler (heard nearby), higher pitched and more melodious and metallic.

333. Reed-Warbler*. T. Seen in reed-bed at Saltley Sewage Farm (J.P.), a new site. Up to eight singing birds in spring at Brandon (B.M.C.G.).

1T. Eleven singing birds at Upton Warren on June 9th (R.M., B.T.N.). III. Not seen at Wednesfield (D.S.) where two pairs bred last year.

One seen in early July at Blithfield (E.S.C., N.J.I.) where unusual. Colony at Loynton Moss maintained its numbers (F.C.G.).

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334. Marsh-Warbler*. 11. One noted near Eckington Bridge on June 26th (A.F.J.), four near NalTord on June 30th (P.J., A.C.W.), five in the Birlingham-Nafford area on June 16th (R.M., B.T.N.) and three at Birlingham on July 6th (G.S.). Breeding sites along the Avon were under water in July (A.W.C.).

337. Sedge-Warbler*. I. At least 12 pairs nested at Alvecote (G.A.A.). Up to 50 singing birds noted during May at Brandon (B.M.C.G.). Present in reed-bed at Saltley Sewage Farm, a new site (J.P.).

II. 10 singing birds counted at Upton Warren on June 29th (A.R.D.). A bird heard in full song at 01.30 hours near Stourbridge town centre on May 14th (A.V.F.).

III. Not recorded at Wedneslield where three pairs bred last year (D.S.).

343. Blackcap*. J. Eight territories held in Edgbaston Park, Birming-ham, with only one pair of Garden Warblers, the same pattern as in recent years (G.J.U.). 11 held territories in spring at Coombe as against four Garden-Warblers (C.H.P.). A bird seen in Sutton Coldfield on February 27th (M.H.B.) and another visited a bird table in another area of Sutton Coldfield from December 19th to 26th (E.S.).

II. 12 singing birds located at Dowles Brook on May 26th compared with 15 Garden-Warblers (R.M., B.T.N.). Birds seen in Redditch garden on January 7th (K.G.C.), in mid-January at West Hagley (L.R.B.) and at Stourport on March 9th (C.R.L.R.).

III. Three singing birds heard in Manley area as against one Garden-Warbler (A.R.M.B.). No change in breeding numbers in Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). One seen at Wolverhampton bird table from February 6th to 14th (D.W.).

346. Garden-Warbler*. LI. 10 counted in Wyre Forest on June 2nd compared with six Blackcaps (A.R.D.).

III. Slight increase in breeding numbers in Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). 347. Whitethroat*. I. Increase to 20 breeding pairs noted on 260

acres at Brandon compared with 12 in 1967 (B.M.C.G.). Six pairs bred on 220 acres of agricultural land at Wilnecotc com-pared with two or three in most years (G.A.A., M.A.A.). Three territories held in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, was an increase (G.J.U.).

III. Large increase in breeding numbers reported at Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). Influx of about 25 noted on passage on August Ist in small area at Essington (D.S.).

348. Lesser Whitethroat*. I. Reported in breeding season at Alvecote, Wilnecote (G.A.A.), Arbury (H.L., J.Wa.), Bartley (R.M., J.H.W.R.) and Leamington Spa (E.J.B., I.K.D.).

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II. Noted in breeding season at Upton Warren (A.R.D., R.M., B.T.N.), Wyre Forest (A.R.D.), Bittell (J.H.w;R.) and West-wood (J.H.W.R.).

111. Reported in breeding season at Belvide (A.R.M.B., D.S.), Cannock Chase (D.S.), Rushall (A.E.C.), Norbury (T.W.B.), Brewood (A.R.D.), Branston (T.C.) and Gailey (D.J.M.).

354. Willow-Warbler*. I. Good breeding season reported in Tam-worth area (G.A.A., M.A.A.). 50 were singing in Hartshill Wood on April 21st (H.L.). 11 pairs located in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, compared with four Chiffchaffs (G.J.U.).

III. About 140 heard in walk of half a mile through small pine plantations in Bagots Park on April 21st (J.L.). Considerable increase in breeding numbers noted in Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). Concentrations noted at Belvide of 35 from April 17th to 20th and at Essington of about 40 on April 18th and August lst (D.S.).

356. Chiffchaff*. L 10 singing birds in Hartshill Wood on April 21st compared with 50 Willow-Warblers (H.L.).

II. One seen at Cookley on December 2nd (B.T.N.). III. Small increase in breeding birds at Fradley Wood (M.J.A.).

Usually outnumbered by six to one by Willow-Warblers at Belvide and by 10 to one at Essington (D.S.). One seen at Codsall on December 14th (D.C.).

357. Wood-Warbler*. I. Believed to have bred at Packington (K.S.) and singing birds heard at South Warwickshire locality in May and June (B.O.S.). Birds heard up to early June at Earlswood (D.M.H., J.D.M.W.), Arbury (J.Wa.), Warwick Park (O.L.L., T.W.L.), Whichford (B.O.S.), Sutton Park (A.R.M.B., E.M.R., G.J.U.) and Caneley Ford, Coventry (C.H.P.).

II. Bred in Lickey Woods (J.M.H.). 25 counted in Wyre Forest on June 2nd (A.R.D.). Singing birds heard in spring at Westwood (C.P.B.), Salwarpe (C.P.B.), Malvern Hills (D.I.N.) and through-out summer at Pipers Hill Wood (A.F.J.). One at Sheriffs Lench on April 21st was exceptional for the locality (T.C.S.).

III. Nested in Churnett Valley (R.A.H.) and Coombes Valley (H.W.K.) and six sang at Threapwood on May 19th (R.A.H.). Heard in spring at Chillington (A.E.C., K.E.), Woodseaves (T.W.B.) and, once, at Blitkfield (L.S.).

364. Goldcrest*. No changes in status reported. II. 30 noted at Dowles Brook on February 18th (R.M., B.T.N.)

and 50 on November 7th (R.M.). III. Numerous as usual on Cannock Chase in autumn and winter,

100 being noted in Sherbrook Valley on November 1st (D.S.). 50 reported at Enville on November 4th (R.M.).

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365. Firecrest. J. One seen at close range in gorsc in Sutton Park on February 18th (T.T.F.).

366. Spotted Flycatcher*. 1. Fewer than usual seen at Puckington this year (K.S.). Three breeding pairs in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, was more than in recent years (G.J.U.).

11. Smaller numbers reported this year in Cofton Richards-Lickey Woods area (J.M.H.).

368. Pied Flycatcher*. I. One seen at Packington on May 14th inspecting site but did not remain (K.S.). Single birds seen on passage at Leamington Spa on June 9th, August 4th and 11th (E.J.B.) and at Brandon on August 19th (B.M.C.G.).

II. 26 young reared from nest boxes set up in one area of Wyrc Forest (L.R.B.). One seen on passage at Bittell on April 20th (R.G.C., M.F.).

111. Nested in Coombes Valley (G.L.). A cock bird seen on the river Dane near Blackbrook on June 23rd (F.C.G.). Single birds seen at Biddulph on April 19th (W.Br.) and at Betley on the 20th (J.F.B.), and two at Essington on August Ist (D.S.).

371. Hedge-Sparrow*. T. Good breeding numbers reported in Tum-worth area (G.A.A., M.A.A.).

111. A further slight increase in breeding numbers noted at Fradley Wood (M.J.A.).

373. Meadow-Pipit*. T. A party of 70 flew south at evening on Septem-ber 24th at Nuneaton (H.L.). Numbers reported at various localities were 30 at Haywood on March 24th (O.L.L., T.W.L.), 36 at Alvecotc on April 7th (R.G.H.) and 25 on September 30th (G.A.A.), and 30 near Leamington Spa on November 17th (E.J.B.).

11. At least six pairs held territory on Bredon Hill on April 1.7th (T.C.S.). 48 present at Upton Warren on March 26th (J.R.W.) and 30 at Tardebigge on April 13th (J.R.H.).

111. Nested commonly on north Staffordshire moors (A.G.F.) and bred at Blithfield (A.R.D., T.G., M.J.I.). Peak of autumn passage at Cannock Reservoir was on September 25th and 26th when about 150 present (R.A.H.). 100 counted at Belvide on April 3rd (A.R.D.) and flock of 400 seen at Morridge on August 28th (A.G.F.).

376. Tree-Pipit*. No changes in status reported.

379. Rock-Pipit. II. One seen at Upton Warren on October 21st (A.F.J.).

III. At Belvide one noted on September 21st (C.R.), two on October 19th (A.F.J.) and one on October 20th (D.J.M.) and 26th (D.S.). A bird seen at Cannock Reservoir on October 26th (A.R.M.B.) and November 16th (A.F.J.).

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380. Pied Wagtail*. J. Nested successfully at Packington in crane which was in use and moved around the site (K.S.). 20 roosted in reed-mace at Hartshill on April 6th (D.J.K., C.Pe.). Persistent attacks on car wing mirrors reported from Finham Sewage Farm and similar behaviour in 1967 noted (R.S.T.) at Wolverhampton (HI ) .

White Wagtail. II. One seen at Upton Warren on April 21st (B.R.D.) and at Bittell on the 20th (M.J.I.).

111. Fewer noted at Cannock Reservoir than last year with a few between April 8th and May 18th (R.A.H.). One or two identified at Belvide between March 30th (C.R.) and May 12th (A.R.M.B.). One seen at Hopwas Wood on April 7th (R.A.H.) and three at Blithfield on May 27th (B.C.G.).

381. Grey Wagtail*. Many reports in autumn and winter, mainly autumn, from various waters, usually single birds, rarely two, and on one occasion only, three.

I. Seen building nest in April at Coombe (C.H.P.). Present throughout the summer near Leamington Spa Reservoir and breeding suspected (E.J.B.). One seen in City Centre, Birming-ham, on October 17th (A.J.R.). As with Pied Wagtails birds at Finham Sewage Farm attacked wing-mirrors of cars. [See also examples in 1961 Report.—Ed.].

II. Bred at Dowles Brook (several observers). 111. Seen feeding young at Knypersley on May 28th (H.W.K.).

Birds present in summer at Swallow Moss (H.T.L.), Ham Park (F.C.G.), Milldale, Danebridge, Ipstones and Longnor (A.G.F.).

382. Yellow Wagtail*. I. 60 roosted in reed-bed at Wormleighton on April 20th and August 17th (B.O.S.). II. The largest con-centration reported on passage was 250 at Upton Warren on September 6th (R.M.).

III. Late migrant flocks noted at Blithfield of 100 on May 7th (F.C.G.) and 70 on the 17th (J. L.) and the maximum autumn concentration was 100 on August 16th (J.D., G.S.). 30 noted at Belvide on August 24th (C.R.).

Blue-headed Wagtail. Birds showing the characteristics of this race reported from:—

II. Upton Warren on April 28th (A.J.R.) and May 1st (A.R.D.). 111. Blithfield on May 19th (A.J.R.) and Belvide on April 21st

(D.J.M.) and several dates during July (R.S.C., D.S.).

383. Waxwing. I. One seen at Solihull on January 23rd (M.J.U.). 111. Three seen at Yoxall from April 24th to 30th (B.C.G.).

384. Great Grey Shrike. I. Single birds seen in Sutton Park on February 11th (G.E.L.), at Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on March 8th (M.E.) and at Brandon from October 15th to November 24th (B.M.C.G.).

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ITT. Single birds seen at Cannock Reservoir between February 10th (A.R.D., D.J.M.) and March 31st (R.A.H.) and again between November 16th and 23rd (A.R.D.). One noted on Cannock Chase on January 21st (J.L.), February 24th (J.W.H.) and April 7th (A.S.) and again on December 10th (T.W.B.). A bird seen at Brownhills on December 31st (D.D.).

388. Red-backed Shrike. I. A bird seen in Sutton Park on June 16th (J.P.).

389. Starling41. I. Torrential rain on June 18th killed many birds roosting in Birmingham City centre (per J.L.). About 2,000 flew from north-north-east on October 20th at Alvecote (G.A.A., M.A.A.).

III. Parties flew from east throughout the morning at Blithfield on October 20th (J.L., L.S.). Large roosts located at Gibbet Wood and near Bunkers Hill Wood, both near Whittington Sewage Farm, in winter months (A.V.F.).

391. Hawfinch*. Few records, as usual, and no new localities reported. H. Two seen on Malvern Hills on April 21st (A.C.W.).

III. Two seen at Enville on April 7th (A.F.J.).

392. Greenfinch*. I. Many reports of birds feeding on suspended peanuts but one at Solihull accustomed to a red plastic net bag refused to feed from a green one (L.R.B.). Very few winter flocks noted in the Tame Valley (H.T.L.). 200 reported near Kenilworth on August 30th (R.S.).

II. The commonest finch around West Hagley gardens (L.R.B.) and up to 18 visited a garden in Droitwich (C.P.B.). Flock of 100 noted at Bittell on September 2nd (L.W.).

III. Up to 26 visited garden bird table at Tamworth (W.J.A.). Flocks reported were 150 in January at Cannock Reservoir, where usual autumn flock did not develop (R.A.H.); 150 at Gailey on February 17th; and 150 at Essington on February 24th (D.S.). A melanistic bird seen at Wednesfield in March (D.S.).

393. Goldfinch*. I. Up to 40 present at Brandon in August (B.M.C.G.) and party of 40 noted at Hartshill on September 15th (H.L.).

II. Flock of up to 75 noted at Upton Warren in August (R.M., T.A.W.). 120 seen near Kidderminster on September 14th (R.M.). A flock on thistles at Tardebigge built up during September to a maximum of 114 birds oh the 22nd (J.R.H.).

TTT. Largest numbers reported were 100 around Belvide on September 28th (C.R.); 60 at Blithfield on October 20th (J.L., L.S.); 100 at Tittesworth on October 19th (A.G.F.); 75 at Madeley on October 20th (J.F.B.); and about 40 at Longton on September 29th (W.B.).

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394. Siskin. I. ?0 reported in Edgbaston Park, Birmingham, on January 24th (D.M.H.); 30 at Berkwell on December ist; and 45 at Solihull on same date (J.R.W.).

II . Largest flocks reported were 50 at Bittell on January lst (K.G.C.) and December 7th (H.T.L.); 30 at Podmore Pool on November 8th (R.M.); 30 at Belbroughton on November 10th (R.M., B.T.N.); 40 in Wyre Forest on December 8th (P.J.); and up to 30 at Westwood in December (C.P.B.).

III. Largest concentrations were 30 on Cannock Chase on March 10th (M.J.I.); 30 at Milford on November 10th (G.S.); 25 at Blithfield on November 10th (E.S.C.); and 40 at Cannock Reservoir on December 3rd (D.S.).

395. Linnet*. T. 75 noted at Alvecote on September 22nd (G.A.A.); 50 at Hartshill Sewage Farm on October 3rd and November 3rd (J.Wa.); and up to 200 at Brandon in October (B.M.C.G.).

II. A flock of 100 was still present at Sheriffs Lench on April 12th (T.C.S.). 150 seen at Bittell on October 20th (T.A.W.) and 200 at Upton Warren on the 27th (R.M., B.T.N.).

TTT. The largest flocks reported were 200 at Belvide on August 11th (D.S.); 150 at Cannock Reservoir in September (R.A.H.) and on December 29th (R.M., B.T.N.); 1,000 at Tittesworth on September 29th (H.W.K.); 100 at Landywood on October 3rd (D.S.); 90 at Longton on October 6th (W.B.); 100 at Blithfield on October 13th (A.R.D.); 200 at Brownhills on October 20th (DD.) .

396. Twite*. I. Party of 10 seen on Perry playing fields, Birmingham, near river Tame, on February 9th (G.E.L.).

TTT. Two or three pairs bred on different parts of north Staffordshire moors. Seen at Cannock Reservoir from January 6th (A.R.M.B., A.F.J.) until March 9th (R.A.H.) with 50 on the last date and 90 on January 14th (R.A.H.); and then in autumn small numbers from October 5th (F.C.G.) to end of year with maximum of 10 on December 31st (R.A.H.). Several identified amongst Linnet flock at Belvide on December 23rd (R.C.B., P.J.).

397. Redpoll*. Continues to spread as breeding species. Widespread autumn and winter occurrences.

T. Bred successfully near Bentley, five pairs being present in birch scrub on June 20th (H.L., C.Pe., J.Wa.). Largest flocks reported were 70 at Hartshill Wood on April 7th (J.Wa.) and 100 in Sutton Park on November 30th (A.R.M.B.).

IT. Bred on Lickey Hills (R.M., B.T.N.) and at Eymore Wood (R.M.). Largest flocks reported were 35 at Bittell on January 14th (D.M.H.) and December 23rd (K.G.C., M.F.); 65 in Lickey Woods on October 20th (A.R.D.); 30 at Kidderminster on November 4th; 30 Eymore Wood on November 5th; 150 in

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Habberley Wood on November 11th; 30 at Devil's Spittleful (R.M.); and 30 in Wyre Forest on November 17th (D.S.).

III. Birds seen in breeding season and believed to have bred at Blackbrook, Weston Park, Bagots Park, Swallow Moss, Blith-field, Cannock Reservoir, Belvide, Gailey, Landywood, Enville, Highgate Common, Brownhills and Manley. Largest flocks recorded were 50 at Chatterley on January 9th (A.J.D.); 40 at Gailey on February 17th (D.S.); 100 on Cannock Chase on April 20th (A.F.J.); 50 at Bradwell Wood on April 27th (A.S.); 40 at Cannock Reservoir in September (R.A.H.); 40 at Belvide on October 26th (D.S.); 80 at Landywood on October 28th (D.S.); 80 at Brownhills in November and December (D.D.); 80 at Enville on November 22nd (B.T.N.); and over 200 at Kinver on December 1st (A.F.J.).

401. Bullfinch*. I. Up to 30 reported in flock at Hartshill Sewage Farm in hard weather in January (per H.L.).

IT. Flocks reported were 15 at Hartlebury Common on February 6th (R.M.); 30 in the Lickeys on November 7th (R.M.); and 30 at Devil's Spittleful on November 13th (R.M.).

TIT. Up to 20 seen at Milton during September (A.G.F.) and 12 at Belvide on September 28th (C.R.).

407. Chaffinch*. I. Flock of 150 reported at Hartshill Sewage Farm on January 7th (E.H.T.).

II. Flocks totalling 150 noted at Warley Park on November 10th (R.J.E.) and of 100 at Sheriffs Lench on December 27th (T.C.S.).

III. No change in breeding numbers at Fradley Wood (M.J.A.). Flocks noted of 200 at Belvide on March 16th (D.S.) and 230 at Enville on November 22nd (B.T.N.).

408. Brambling. I. The most reported was as follows: 120 at Hartshill Sewage Farm on February 29th (J.Wa.); 40 at Bartley on March 4th (J.H.W.R.); 30 at Birchley Heath on April 8th (J.Wa.); 40 at Hartshill Wood on April 14th (L.G.); 50 at Earlswood on November 16th (M.J.T.); 80 at Brandon village on December 29th (B.M.C.G.).

TI. Nearly all records by observers in Tenbury area were from blackcurrant fields (B.T.M.). Numbers reported were 30 at Tardebigge on February 25th (J.R.H.); 100 near Lickey Church on November 1st (D.M.H.); 400 in Lickey Woods on November 7th and December 15th (R.M., B.T.N.); 50 at Warley Park on November 10th (R.J.E.).

TIT. The largest numbers recorded were: 100 at Hanchurch on February 20th (A.J.D.); up to 150 at Copmere on November 17th (F.C.G.); 100 at Tittesworth on November 17th (P.Do.); 40 at Trentham Park on November 23rd (G.M.); about 200 at Gailey on November 24th (D.A.H.); 300 at Wetley Rocks in early December (J.S.A.);

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409. Yellow Hammer*. I. 11 breeding pairs located on 260 acres at Brandon, the same as in 1967 (B.M.C.G.)- Flock of 20 at Oldbury on December 8th (H.L.).

IT. Reported as plentiful around Kyre (B.J.M.). Flocks noted of 40 at Blakeshall on January 9th; 20 at Eymore Wood on Novem-ber 5th; and 30 at Habberley Valley on November 11th (R.M.).

III. Flock of 300 recorded near Kings Bromley on January 28th (M.J.A.); 60 at Essington on February 24th (D.S.); and influx of about 35 noted at Belvide on October 30th (D.S.).

410. Corn-Bunting*. Continues to expand its breeding range. I. Singing birds reported at Nuneaton Fields (D.J.K.), Hartshill

Sewage Farm (C.Pe.), Bramcote—five on June 18th (J.Wa.), Wolvey—five on June 27th (H.L., J.Wa.), Hartshill (J.Wa.), Brandon (B.M.C.G.), Alvecote (G.A.A.), Grendon (G.A.A.), Hams Hall—three in June (H.T.L.), Wishaw (A.R.M.B., K.S.), Heathcote (R.A.), Hunningham (E.E.G.), Ufton Fields (E.J.B., W.G.B., I.M.E.), Leamington Spa (E.J.B., W.G.B.). 70 roosted at Wolston on April 11th (J.W.) and several seen with House-Sparrow flocks at Chesterton Pool on September 24th (J.L.).

IT. Singing birds noted at Upton Warren (several observers), Blake-down (L.A.C.), Wyre Piddle (T.C.S.), Westwood (C.P.B.), Droitwich (C.P.B.), Holt—several (F.F.), Little Comberton— several (F.F.), Tardebigge—up to three (J.R.H.), Wilden (R.M.), Stoulton/Defford area (A.R.M.B.).

111. Singing birds reported f rom Tamworth—three areas (G.A.A.), Audley (J.F.B.), Handsacre (B.C.G.), Drayton Bassett (G.A.A.), Lichfield—three areas (G.A.A., R.A.H., F.E.P.), Alrewas (F.E.P.), Blithfield (several observers), Cannock Reservoir (A.R.D., R.A.H.), Little Hay (A.R.M.B.). During June and July five sang in Burntwood area where a bird first appeared in 1967 (R.A.H.).

415. Cirl Bunting*. II. One or two singing birds located at Malvern in June and July (A.R.M.B., A.F.J., D.I.N., G.S.).

421. Reed-Bunting*. I. 24 breeding pairs located on 260 acres at Brandon, the same as in 1967 (B.M.C.G.). About 10 pairs resident at Alvecote (G.A.A.). Parties of up to 30 seen in autumn at Bodymoor Heath where bred freely (H.T.L.) and flock of 50 noted at Whittleford on December 15th (D.H.).

TT. 17 singing birds located at Upton Warren on June 9th (R.M., B.T.N.). Flocks reported were 20 at Tardebigge on January 3rd and 28th (J.R.H.); 30 at Westwood on October 18th (D.I.N.); and 50 at Ripple on November 24th and 30th (D.I.N.).

ITT. No young reared at Wednesfield where at least eight pairs bred in 1967 (D.S.).

5 4

423. Snow-Bunting. L Two seen at Draycote from February 26th to March 24th (J.C.).

II. Party of five seen on Malvern Hills on November 16th (D.T.N.). III. One reported at Cannock Reservoir on November 16th (A.F.J.).

424. House-Sparrow*. I. Flock of 200 at Stockingford tip on Decem-ber 1st (H.L.).

III. Flocks of about 450 noted at Cannock Reservoir in January and December and about 600 near Brownhills in December (R.A.H.).

425. Tree-Sparrow*. I. The maximum at HartshiM Sewage Farm was 300 on February 29th (J.Wa.). 300 seen at Whichford on March 21st (B.O.S.). One at Perry Park, Birmingham, on June 10th was first record by observer from there (G.E.L.).

II. 100 seen near Kidderminster on November 17th (R.M., B.T.N.). 111. Flocks reported were 80 at Gailey on February 17th (D.S.);

about 40 at Essington in February and December (D.S., C.R.); 100 at Doxey on March 10th (G.S.); 200 at Belvide on March 16th (D.S.); and about 100 at Rushall in autumn and winter (A.E.C.). The usual large flocks at Blithfield were not observed this year.

ERRATA 1967 REPORT On pages 4 and 49 the record of a Richard's Pipit at Ulithlicld in 1963 was over-

looked. On page 50 under Tree-Pipit for 140 read 14.

5 5

RECOVERIES IN 1967-68 OF

Species Age Date Heron (P) 11.6.66 Heron (P) 4.5.68

Heron (P) 25.5.68 Mute Swan (PJ) 26.2.67 Mute Swan lst S. 30.4.67 Mute Swan (P) 27.8.67 Kestrel (P) 24.6.68

Curlew (A) 1.8.63 Swallow (A) 2.10.66 Swallow (A) 22.9.66

•Swallow (J) 30.9.66

Swallow (J) 23.8.67

Swallow (J) 27.9.66

Swallow (3) 6.9.66

Sand-Martin (J) 10.8.67 *Sand-Martin (J) 17.8.67

•Blue Tit Ist W. 13.2.66 •Great Tit (A) 4.2.68

Fieldfare (PJ) 4.2.67 Song-Thrush (PJ) 30.1.67 Song-Thrush (J) 8.8.65 Song-Thrush (PJ) 9.12.67 Song-Thrush (PJ) 3.1.67 Song-Thrush (PJ) 3.12.67 Redwing (PJ) 6.3.66

RINGED Place

Gailey, Staffs. Gailey, Staffs.

Gailey, Staffs. Stratford, Warks. Burton, Staffs. Branston, Staffs. Temple Grafton,

Warks. Blithfield, Staffs. Bedworth, Warks. Bedworth, Warks. Bedworth, Warks.

Bedworth, Warks.

Bedworth, Warks.

Bedworth, Warks.

Bedworth, Warks. Bedworth, Warks.

Nuneaton, Warks. Weston-under-Lizard,

Staffs. Malvern, Worcs. Bedworth, Warks. Baginton, Warks. Hopwas, Staffs. Coombe, Warks. White Sitch, Staffs. White Sitch, Staffs.

RINGED IN THE WMBC AREA RECOVERY

Date Place Movement Ringer 2.3.68 Llangefni, Anglesey 100 m. W.N.W. C.D.T.M. 2.6.68 Michaelchurch-on-Arrow, 50 m. S.W. C.D.T.M.

Radnor 28.9.68 Moccas, Hereford 53 m. S.W. C.D.T.M. 13.5.68 Magor, Monmouth 62 m. S.W. J.A.H. 24.8.68 • Rufford, Lanes. 75 m. N.W. C.D.T.M.

17.12.68 Tattershall Bridge, Lines. 65 m. E.N.E. C.D.T.M. 23.10.68 Salisbury, Wilts. 75 m. S. J.A.H.

5.6.68 Asa (Halland), Sweden C.D.T.M. 3.6.67 Lockerbie, Dumfries 205 m. N.N.W. J.W.

30.8.68 Dunkeld, Perthshire 295 m. N.N.W. M.J.D. 12.1.68 Kimberley, Cape — H.L.

Province, South Africa 31.1.68 Durban, Natal, South — H.L.

Africa 8.2.68 De Dooms, Cape Province, — M.J.D.

South Africa 12.11.68 Pongola, Transvaal, — H.L.

South Africa 3.9.67 Triaize, Vendee, France — J.W.

21.5.68 St. Ouen, Jersey, — H.L. Channel Islands

29.5.68 Chippenham, Wilts. 80 m. SJS.W. H.L. 8.11.68 Widmerpool, Notts. 50 m. E N.E. E.D.P.

29.10.68 Retie, Antwerpen, Belgium G.H.G. 17.1.68 Gijon. Ovido, Spain — R.K.S.

10.12.67 Usk, Monmouth 80 m. S.W. A.W.E. 3.3.68 Lincoln, Lines. 65 m. R E . P.W.C.

20.12.67 Gijon, Ovido, Spain — A.W.E. 19.5.68 Maltby, Yorks. 70 m. ME. E.D.P.

15.11.66 Nijlen, Antwerpen, Belgium — P.G.D.

RINGED RECOVERY Species Age Date Place Date Place Movement Ringer

Redwing (PJ) 22.1.67 White Sitch, Staffs. 21.1.68 Grosseto, Italy — E.D.P. •Redwing (PJ) 12.3.67 White Sitch, Staffs. 7.10.68 Cleethorpes, Lines. 103 m. N.E. P.G.D. Redwing (PJ) 8.1.66 Sandon, Staffs. 5.2.68 Mendiga, Estremadura, — P.W.C. (PJ) Sandon, Staffs.

Portugal Redwing (PJ) 11.12.66 Sandon, Staffs. 14.4.68 Uddevalla, Goteborg ocli — J.A.K.

Bohus, Sweden Redwing (PJ) 11.11.67 Middleton, Warks. 4.2.68 Soure, Beira Litoral, — R.A. (PJ)

Portugal Redwing (PJ) 8.10.66 Middleton, Warks. -10.2.68 Vicalvaro, Madrid, Spain — D.J.S. Blackbird (PJ) 12.12.65 Weston-under-Lizard, 1.11.66 Savsjostrom, Kronoberg, — E.D.F. (PJ)

Staffs. Sweden •Blackbird (PJ) 28.12.67 Solihull, Warks. 18.3.68 Heligoland, Germany — J.R.W. Blackbird Ist W. 13.1.68 Malvern, Worcs. 1.8.68 Sogne, Vest Agder, Norway — R.M.B. Robin (A) 2.7.66 Brandon, Warks. 25.3.68 Kingston-on-Thames, 80 m. S.E. A.W.E. (A) Brandon, Warks.

Surrey Starling (PJ) 28.11.64 Sandon, Staffs. -.7.68 Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, — p.w.c.

Germany Starling (PJ) 28.11.64 Sandon, Staffs. 6.10.68 Evergem, East Flanders, — G.H.C-. (PJ)

Belgium Starling (A) 9.2.63 Sutton Coldfield, Warks. 8.2.68 Groet, N. Holland, Holland — E.J.P. Starling (PJ) 11.2.67 Handsworth, 8.6.68 R. Havel, Neubrandenburg, — T.E.

Birmingham Germany Starling (A) 12.11.66 Nuneaton, Warks. -.12.67 Hickling, Norfolk 125 m. E. J.W.

*Reed-\Varbler (PJ) 1.8.65 Baginton, Warks. 5.5.68 Wendover, Bucks. 50 m. S.E. A.W.E. Greenfinch (PJ) 24.12.67 White Sitch, Staffs. 27.3.68 Llanelly, Glamorgan 103 m. S.W. P.G.D.

•Greenfinch 1st W. 7.1.68 White Sitch, Staffs. 21.4.68 Warsop, Notts. 65 m. N.E. E.D.P. •Greenfinch (PJ) 23.4.67 Hopwas, Staffs. 30.3.68 Cheadle, Cheshire 55 m. N.N.W. P.W.C. Greenfinch (PJ) 26.2.67 Hopwas, Staffs. 7.5.68 Hemel Hempstead, Herts. 80 m. S.E. C.D.T.M. •Greenfinch 1st W. 15.1.66 Wyken, Warks. 4.10.68 Dunstable, Bedfordshire 53 m. S.E. A.W.E.

•Redpoll (PJ) 11.3.65 Hartshill, Warks. 15.11.67 Wijtschate, W. Flanders, — J.W. Belgium

•Chaffinch (PJ) 15.1.67 Hopwas, Staffs. 5.11.68 Hulster, W. Flanders, — G.H.G.. Belgium

KEY:— See next Table.

RECOVERIES IN WMBC AREA OF BIRDS RINGED ELSEWHERE

RINGED RECOVERY Species Age Date Place Date Place Movement Recoverer

•Mute Swan (A) 18.8.65 Barrow, Lanes. ^ ' 11.2.67 21.1.68 28.6.68

Tamworth, Staffs. Barrow, Lanes. Dalton, Lanes, (breeding)

120 m. S.E. 120 m. N.W. (Local)

C.D.T.M.

'Canada Goose (A) 9.7.67 Kirby Lonsdale, . 6.7.68 Tritiford Park, 135 m. S.S.E. C.D.T.M./ (A) Westmorland Birmingham T.J.G.

•Canada Goose (A) 9.7.67 Kirby Lonsdale, 6.7.68 Tritiford Park, 135 m. S.S.E. C.D.T.M./ (A) Westmorland Birmingham T.J.G.

•Swift (FG) 23.7.63 Hackenthorpe, 22.6.68 Coven Heath, Staffs. 60 m. S.W. E.D.P. (FG) Derbyshire

Coven Heath, Staffs.

•Swift (A) 23.6.63 Hoddesdon, Herts. 23.6.68 Coven Heath, Staffs. 110 m. N.W. E.D.P. •Sand-Martin (A) 7.5.67 La Chapelle sur Erdre, 17.8.67 Bedworth, Warks. — J.W. (A)

Loire Atlantique, France Bedworth, Warks.

•Sand-Martin (FG) 3.9.65 La Chapelle sur Erdre, 27.6.68 Brewood, Staffs. — E.D.P. (FG) Loire Atlantique, France

•Sand-Martin (A) 5.5.68 Frossay, Loire Atlantique, France

17.7.68 Brewood, Staffs. — E.D.P.

•Reed-Warbler (PJ) 14.5.67 Chew, Somerset 29.5.68 Droitwich, Worcs. 65 m.'N.N.E. G.H.G. •Sedge-Warbler (J)

© 24.8.65 Chichester, Sussex 23.6.66 Polesworth, Warks. 125 m. N.N.W. J.W.

•Redpoll (J) © 5.8.68 Thornhill, Dumfries -.11.68 Temple Grafton, Warks. 225 m. S.S.E. J.A.H.

•Chaffinch (PJ) 16.10.63 Wassenaar, Z. Holland, 28.2.65 White Sitch, Staffs. — P.G.D. (PJ) Holland

White Sitch, Staffs.

•Chaffinch (PJ) 1.4.63 Heligoland, Germany 19.12.65 White Sitch, Staffs. — E.D.P. •Long-tailed Tit (PJ) 26.12.64 Walcot, Salop. 20.5.66 Tettenhall, Staffs. 17 m. E.S.E. E.D.P.

KEY:— A—Adult

I st W.—1st Winter

P—Pullus (unfledged young) J—Juvenile - F—Full-grown (age not certain)

Ist S.—Ist Summer (one year old) *—recovered alive (remainder found dead, killed etc.)

MIGRANTS The average arrival or departure date given below after the name of each

bird is based respectively on the first and last dates given in the Annual Reports up to 1968. The figuic in brackets is the number of years on which the average is based.

ARRIVALS DEPARTURES

Chiflchaff. Av—March 18 (34) March 16 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

21 Leamington (E.J.B.) 24 Wolston (J.W.) 24 Bittell (R.M., B.T.N.)

Av—October 8 (34) December 14 Codsall (D.C.)

2 Cookley (B.T.N.) October 27 Leamington (E.J.B.)

6 Bittell (K.G.C.) 6 Cannock Chase (D.S.)

Sand-Martin. March 21

21 22

Av.=March 25 (33) Upton Warren (M.J.I.) Westwood (A.R.D.) Hurcott Pool (F.F.)

Av.=October 2 (33) October 27 Belvide (E.A.H.)

21 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 17 Kings Bromley

(B.C.G.)

Wheatear. Av—March 25 (31) Feb. 23 March 22

25 25

Oflchnrch (I.M.E.) Cofton Richards

(J.M.H.) Brandon (B.M.C.G.) Norton Berry Hill

(H.W.K.)

Av =September 30 (32) October 21 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

5 Cannock Res. (D.D., J.L.)

2 Yoxall (B.C.G.)

Willow-Warbler. A v . = M a r c h 28 (34) Av.=September 27 (34) March 22 Leamington (E.J.B.) October 27 Leamington (E.J.B.)

27 Lynn (T.E.C.P.) 18 Latherford (A.J.D.) 30 Belvide (C.R.) 6 Cannock Chase (D.S.) 30 Bodymoor Heath (H.T.L.)

Little Ringed Plover. Av—Apri l 1 (4) March 27 Kingsbury (E.A.H.)

30 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 30 Bodymoor Heath

(H.T.L.)

Av.=September 22 (4) October 6 Clay Mills (E.S.C.) September 22 Blithfield (B.C.G.)

10 Hams Hall (W.J.A.)

Swallow. Av.=Apri l 3 (34) April 4 Burton-upon-Trent

(B.A.) 7 Westwood (A.R.D.) 7 Chesterton (F.R.) 8 Upton Warren (A.F.J.)

Av.=October 25 (34) Dec. 7 Sherbourne (J.A.H.) Nov. 18 Tiddington (J.A.H.)

5 Stretton (B.Cr.) October 30 Belvide (D.S.)

29 Wilnecote (G.A.A.) 29 Bromsgrove (F.F.)

Blackcap. Av.=Apri l 6 (34) March 28 Kidderminster (R.M.) April 5 Westwood (C.P.B.)

9 Bittell (K.G.C.) 15 Alvecote (G.A.A.)

Av.=Sepiember 21 (31) October 20 Blithfield (E.S.C.,

M.J.I.) 14 Meriden (K.S.) 13 Tanworth (D.M.H.)

(winter records omitted)

5 9

ARRIVALS DEPARTURES

Gargancy. Av.=Apri l 7 (26) March 31 Earlswood (J.D.M.W.) April 14 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

19 Wesiwood (C.P.B.)

Yellow Wagtail. Av.=Apri l 8 (32) March 30 Belvide (A.F.J., C.R,)

31 Rnrlvnioor Heath (E.A.H.)

April 7 Chesterton (J.K.D.)

Tree-Pipit. Av.=Apri l 10 (31) April 3 Hams Hall (E.A.H.)

7 Wyre Forest (W.F.S.) . 20 (several records)

House-Martin. Av.=Apri l 11 (34) March 31 Trentham (I.J.D.)

31 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 31 Kings Norton (W.F.S.)

Av.=Scptember 10 (25) September 28 Upton Warren

(T.A.W.) 22 Blithfield (G.J.U.) 12 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

Av.=October 3 (31) October 15 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

13 Yoxall (B.C.G.) 13 Blithfield (W.F.S.)

Av =September 12 (30) September 15 Upton Warren

(K.G.C.) 14 Blithfield (T.A.W.)

August 25 Norton (H.W.K.)

Av.=October 24 (34) Nov. 3 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) Octobcr 30 Leamington (E.J.B.)

28 Clayton (C.P.)

Redstart. Av.=April 12 (32) March 31 Coombe (C.H.P.) April 6 Walsall (D.A.H.) September 26

14 Bewdley (W.F.S.) II 16 Belvide (A.F.J.) 6 16 Halfpenny Green (I.J.D.) 6

Av.=September 12 (31) October 19 Gnosall (T.J.D.)

;

Chesterton (E.E.G.) Sutton Park (G.J.U.) Burntwood (R.A.H.) Cannock Res. (R.A.H.)

Common Sandpiper. Av.=Apri l 12 (32) Av.=October 10 (29) April

Cuckoo. April

3 River Leam (I.K.D.) 6 Belvide (D.S., C.R.)

II Bittell (K.G.C.)

Av.=Apri l 13 (32) 7 Redditch (K.G.C.)

15 Hurley (E.A.H.) 17 Woodcote (F.F.) 17 Wolverley (R.M.)

Whitethroat. April 17

18 18 18

Av.=Apri l 17 (34) Sutton Park (several

• observers) Leamington (E.J.B.) Shirley (R.S.S.) Upton Warren (R.M.)

Sedge-Warbler. Av—April 19 (32) April 16 Alvecote (G.A.A.)

16 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 18 (several, records)

Nov. 15 Hanley (H.W.K.) 3 Hams Hall (G.J.U.)

October 27 Kingsbury (E.A.H.) 21 Bodymoor Heath

(H.T.L.) 21 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

Av.=September 16 (30) September 4 Bodymoor Heath

(E.A.H.) 3 Whittington (R.C.B.)

August 23 Draycott-le-Moors (A.K.P.)

Av.=September 20 (34) October 15 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

5 Essington (D.S.) September 26 Norton (H.W.K.)

26 Leamington (E.J.B.)

Av.=September 22 (25) September 29 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

29 Upton Warren (B.T.N .) 29 Leamington (E.J.B.)

6 0

ARRIVALS DEPARTURES

Nightingale. Av.=April 21 (32) April 70 Westwood (C.P.B.)

20 Monkwood (W.J.L.) 23 Hadzor (A.F.J.)

Grasshopper-Warbler. Av.=Apri l 21 (32) Av.=August 18 (17) April 16 Alvecote (G.A.A.) August 31 Yoxall (B.C.G.)

16 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 15 Yarningdale (E.E.G.) 19 Temple Grafton (R.j.J.) 4 Bodymoor Heath

(G.A.A.)

Wood-Warbler. Av.=April 22 (32) April 20 Copmere (I.J.D.)

21 Randan Wood (F.F.) 22 Westwood (C.P.B.)

Av.=August 11 (22) August 7 Yoxall (B.C.G.)

Lesser Whitethroat. Av.=April 23 (32) Av.=September 13 (32) April 17 Belvide (D.S., C.R.)

20 Hanbury (F.F.) 21 (several records)

Pied Flycatcher. Av.=April 23 (21) April 14 Bewdley (W.F.S.)

20 Bittell (K.G.C.) 25 Wyre Forest (D.S.)

Garden-Warbler. Av.=Apri l 24 (31) April 22 Randan Wood (F.F.)

24 Rungles Wood (P.C.J.) 27 Brewood (A.R.D.)

Whinchat. Av.=April 25 (32) April 18 Essington (D.S.)

19 Stafford (D.E.J.C.) 19 Packington (K.S.)

September 18 Cannock Res. (R.A.H.)

12 Branston (W.E.M.) 9 Upton Warren

(A.R.D.)

August 19 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) JI Leamington (E.J.B.)

1 Essington (D.S.)

Av.=August 25 (30) . October 15 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) September 9 Upton Warren

(A.R.D.) 8 Yardley Wood

(D.M.H.)

Av.=September 23 (29) Nov. 8 Belvide (A.J.D.) October 21 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

10 Landywood (D.S.)

Swift. Av.=April 25 (34) April 17 Hurley (E.A.H.)

19 (several records)

Turtle-Dove. Av.=April 30 (33) April 20 Cheadle (A.K.P.)

20 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 21 (several records)

Av.=September 8 (34) September 29 Leamington (E.J.B.)

15 Warley (R.C.B.) 8 Kidderminster (R.M.,

B.T.N.)

Av.=September 17 (33) September 24 Chesterton (I.M.E.)

22 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 21 Westwood (C.P.B.)

Reed-Warbler, April 18

21 25 25

Av.=April 30 (28) River Leam (E.J.B.) Westwood (C.P.B.) Alvecote (G.A.A.) Packington (K.S.)

Av.=September 14(20) September 29 Upton Warren

(T.A.W.) 22 (several records)

6 1

ARRTVAM DEPARTURES

Spotted Flycatcher. A v . = M a y 5 (31) April 20 Great Wolford (E.J.B.,

(W.G.B.) 23 Bransford (W.J.L.) 28 Wyre Forest (several

observers)

Av.=September 21 (31) September 27 Leamington (E.J.B.)

22 (several records)

Nightjar. A v . = M a y 16 (28) Av.=August 15 (17) May 4 Packington (H.T.L.) August 12 Ilanchurch (C.P.)

11 Cannock Chase (M.J.A.)

Red-hacked Shrike. A v . = M a y 18 (13) N o records

Marsh-Warbler. Av .=June 3 (21) No records

Golden Plover. Av.=September 4 (23) Aug. 2 Essington (D.S.)

15 Alvecote (A.E.C.) 24 Belvide (C.R.)

Av.=Apr i l 8 (23) April 20 Belvide (D.S.)

20 Essington (D.S.) 17 Brownhills (D.D.)

Wigeon. Av.=September 8 (30) Aug. 25 Bittell (K.G.C.) Sept. 1 Upton Warren (R.M.,

B.T.N.) 14 Alvecote (G.A.A.) (summer records from

Blithfield)

Av.=Apr i l 27 (34) April 21 Bodymoor Heath

(G.J.U.) 21 Belvide (T.E.C.P.) 14 Brandon (B.M.C.G.) 13 Bittell (A.R.D.)

Redwing. Sept.

Oct.

Av.=October 3 (34) 14 Alvecote (G.A.A.) 14 Blithfield (R.C.B.) 29 Bodymoor Heath

(E.A.H.) 3 Essington (D.S.)

Av.=Apr i l 11 (34) April 21 Droitwich (C.P.B.)

15 Sedgley (C.R.) 9 Latherford (A.J.D.) 9 Bodymoor Heath

(E.A.H.)

Pintail. Av.=October 7 (22) Aug. 24 Blithfield (A.F.J.)

28 Alvecote (G.A.A.) Sept. 15 Middleton (E.A.H.)

Jack Snipe. Sept.

Oct.

10 18

3 6

Av.=October 11 (27) Hams Hall (W.J.A.) Bodymoor Heath

(E.A.H.) Landywood (D.S.) Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

Av .=Apr i l 10 (28) May 17 Blithfield (J.L.) April 28 Hams Hall (H.T.L.)

19 Upton Wan-en (C.P.B.)

A v . = M a r c h 31 (24) April 30 Stafford (D.E.J.C.)

21 Upton Warren (R.M., B.T.N.)

10 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

Brambling. Av.=October 13 (34) Oct. 10 Cannock Chase (A.F.J.)

20 Blithfield (M.J.I.) 22 Gailey (A.J.D.)

Av .=Apr i l 6 (33) April 15 Sedgley (C.R.)

15 Hurley (E.A.H.) 14 Weston Park (J.L.)

6 2

ARRIVALS DEPARTURES

Fieldfare. Av.=October 13 (33) Sept. 22 Alvecoie (G.A.A.)

28 Coven Healh (B.C.G.) 29 Stratford (B.H.) 29 Cooksey (R.M., B.T.N.)

Siskin. A v. =October 20 (31) Oct. 1 Bittell (K.G.C.)

6 Cannock Chase (D.S.) Nov. 3 Cofton (R.M.)

Goosander. Nov. 2

Av.=November 14 (29) Blithfield (several

observers) Cannock Res. (D.D.) Belvide (A.J.D.)

Smew. Nov.

DCC.

Av =Dccembcr 16 (25) 10 Belvide (P.T.B.) 21 Sutton Park (G.E.L.) 31 Rillr.ll (K.G.C.)

Av.=April 27 (33) May 9 Chesterton (J.T.)

3 Alrewas (B.C.G.) April 24 Droitwich (C.P.B.)

Av.=April 5 (32) March 31 Brandon (B.M.C.G.)

20 Bittell (J.M.H.) 10 Cannock Chase

(M.J.I.)

Av.=March 31 (29) April I Belvide (J.L.) March 30 Blithfield (several

observers)

Av.=March 1 (22) No records

6 3

KEY TO CONTRIBUTORS (The following members and non-members have forwarded

material for the Report)

Miss B. Aldred J. S. Allerton G. A. Arnold M. A. Arnold W. J. Atkins M. J. Austin

tMrs. R . Austen

P. J. Bache T. W. Bailey J. E. C. Baldwin J. F. Ball J. Ballantyne (J.Ba.) F. R. Barlow N. P. Barlow L. R. Bayes G. Beech (G.Be.) Mrs. P . B. Best A. R. M. Blake G. S. Blundell W. Bowman M. H. Box

fE. J. Bradford fMrs. W. G. Bradford

G. Brian •J. Brindley

R. C. Broadbent C. P. Brooking W. Brydges (W.Br.) J. L. Burton

Mrs. L. A. Cadbury B. Campbell D. Cashmorc T. G. Corbishley J. D. Chambers J. Chapman P. J. Cheshire E. S. Clare A. T. Clay K. G. Clifford Mrs. E. Cloake T. Cockburn

tP. C. Coggins A. E. Coles D. R . Cooper D. E. J. Court G. W. F. Cox B. Craddock (B.Cr.) R. S. Cropper A. Cundall

L. F. Dale tP. Davenport

t l . K. Dawson B. B. Daykin A. J. Dean A. R. Dean B. R. Dean D . Diskin I. J. Dix P. Downing (P.Do.)

*M. J. Drakeley I. Draycott

P. D. Hyde

M. J. Inskip

S. Jackson A. F . Jacobs

*D. Jacques *D. E. Jebbett tP . C. Jin man

P. Jones Mrs. D. Dunstan (D.Du.) R. J. Juckes

fMiss E. A. Eattcll R. J. Ebrey K. Edwards W. Edwards D. Elder

•jMrs. I. M. Evans M. Evans

F. Fincher A. G. Finikin A. V. Fisher T. W. Ford G. Fowler T. T. Freeston M. Fuszard

Brandon Marsh Conservation Group

(B.M.C.G. B. C. George

*L. Goodyer T. Gray F. C. Gribble

t R . G. Griffiths tS. Griffiths tMiss E. E. Gutch

R. G. Hallington Mrs. M. Hammond A. Hands P. Hanney J. A. Hardman D. M. Hawker

*Mrs. N. Hepburn Mrs. J. M. Heyncs R. Higginbottom D. A. Hill J. W. Holt E. A. Hopkins

*D. Howe J. R. Hutchings R. A. Hume

H. W. Key *D. J. Kightley

B. L. Kington t G . H. Knight

Mrs. N. M. Ladd G. C. Lambourne

fMrs . O. L. Lancaster t T . W. Lancaster

B. Landreth *H. Lapworth

H. T. Lees G. E. Lewis Miss W. J. Lewis J. Lord G. Lovenbury

*W. G. Luton

,) B. McGrath D. S. Marland

*R. Margoschis R. Maskew

*C. H. Matthews tT . K. Meredith

W. E. Merrill *A. Moreton *M. Moreton D. Morgan G. Moss J. R. Mountford D. J. Munns

*R. Nicholas B. T. Nicholls D. I. North

W. E. Oddie Mrs. E. Owen

G. D. Page K. J. Park

*M. S. Park

6 4

T. E. C. Parker F. E. Peach A. K. Pearcc

*C. Pearson (C.Pc.) S. M. J. Pickvance C. Plant H. R. Player C. H. Potter J. Pratlcy

*D. Ratcliffc C. R. L. Reece E. V. Rces A. J. Richards J. H. W. Ridley

t F . Rishworth R. Rooke Miss E. M. Rose C. Rutter

Banbury Ornithological Society (B.O.S.)

Warwick Natural History T. M. Thursfield Socicly (W.N,H,$.) P. Till

S. H. Savage Mrs. E. Sawyer J. Scott A. Sherlock Mrs. R. Shrive N. Sills K. Simmons D. Smallshire L. Smith

*R. K. Smith W. F. Smith T. C. Smout G. Summers

*L. Tandy t J . Taylor •j-R. Taylor *J. Terry (J.Tc.)

D. M. Thomas K. H. Thomas R. S. Thomas D. H. W. Thompson

*E. H. Tunniclille

fMrs . M. J. Underwood t D . T. Underbill

G. T. Upton

*J. Wagstaff (J.Wa.) T. A. Walsh J. Walton G. W. Ward A. C. Warcham M. J. Warren Miss Y. M. Way Mrs. L. M. Wearing

•A. Webb N. R. Went L. Wheeler M. Whitehousc Miss D. Wight J. R. Wilson B. Wright J. D. M. Wright

•Nuneaton Bird Watchers' Club. fWarwick Natural History Society.

65

WEST MIDLAND BIRD CLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDING

31ST DECEMBER, 1968 1967

£ INCOME £ s. d. Subscriptions and Donations received

730 for 1968 786 13 9 1 Sales of Reports 6 3 0 9 Sales of Birds of Staffs 3 8 6

24 Field Meetings 23 10 0 2 Building Society Interest 5 2 7

142 Reservoirs 16 13 0 Atlas Fund 10 0 0

£908 £851 10 10

EXPENDITURE

£791

£117

51 Indoor Meetings 35 12 6 199 Reports 239 4 6 744 Bulletine 3by 15 3 110 Printing, Stationery, etc. 99 5 4

13 Subscriptions to Associates 13 8 0 148 Reservoirs and Insurance of Hides . . 24 19 6

16 Bird Boxes 19 2 10 10 Miscellaneous Expenses - - -

EXCESS O F INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE

801 7 11

£50 2 11

BALANCE SHEET as at 31ST DECEMBER, 1968

246 Surplus at 1st January, 1968 363 9 6 117 Add: Surplus for year . . 50 2 11

363 413 12 5 116 Subscriptions in Advance 147 16 0

£479 £561 8 5

Represented by:— Cash at Barclays Bank and in hand 404 0 3 Investment in Leicester Permanent

Building Society 157 8 2 £479 £561 8 5

We have examined the above Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31st December, 1968, and Balance Sheet at that date and we certify that, in our opinion, the said Income and Expenditure Account gives a true and fair view of the Club's Excess of Income over Expenditure for 1968 and the Balance Sheet gives a true and fair view of the state of the Club's affairs as at 31st December, 1968, in accordance with books, vouchers and information given to us.

K . H . THOMAS, Hon. Treasurer. WALL & TANFIELD, Chartered Accountants, Hon. Auditors.

6 7