BIRMINGHAM BIRD CLUB.

EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT ON T H E

BIRDS OF WARWICKSHIRE,

WORCESTERSHIRE AND

SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE, 1941

Is. ,6d.

MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATES. Members marked * Contributors to this Report marked t

* tAlexander , H . G. Asteriey, Miss M. H. Baguley, A. A. Baker, Martin. Bannister, C. W. Banton, F. C.

* Barlow, F. R. Beale, E. P. Bewton, Miss D. Butler, Mrs. E.

•Cadbury, Mrs. J . Cadbury, J . C. Cadbury, Mrs. J . C. Carr, P.

* Carter, Miss B. A. Cooke, D. S. Edkins, W. J . Fox, J . P.

tF inche r , F. Froggat t , VV. T . Gibbins, Miss M. Gibbon, Mrs S. M. Grove, Miss N.

• fGroves , W. E . Hamel , Capt. A. de

• f H a r t h a n , A. J . I l ea ton , G Howard, l l ibber t , Mrs. G. K . Hobson, A.

t l r e l a n d , VV. F. • James , Miss C. K. Jeavons, P. M. Jenkins, D.

•Kenr ick , W. E. •Kenr i ck , H .

•+King, G. M. Lambourne, G. C. Lane, Mrs. A. B. Lloyd, G. B.

t M a r t i n , A. J. Mashiter, Major E . Morshead. P. E. A.

• f N orris, C. A. Palfrey, H . E . Palmer, Miss M. Price, Mrs. M. P . Procter. W. J. Pumphrey, Miss M. E. Ratcliffe, Dr . J . R. Kushton, Miss G. Salter, R. G.

• fSanderson , W. W. Score, T . ].

tShe ldon , Dr . J . H . Silvers, C. Owen. Smith, Dr . Langdale. Stephens, J . S. Taylor, C. L.

t T o o b y , H . J . Waine, R. J . Wainwright, C. J .

*+Wallis, C. W. K. Wallis, G. C. W. Warwick, J . S.

tWhi tehouse , A. A. K. Whittle, E.

•Wilkinson, G. H . Williams, Mrs. A. F.

*Wood, D. J. Wright , Miss P. M.

Contributors to this Report not Members or Associates. J. C. Beckerlegge. David Croft . J . P, Paige. J . S. Elliott.

Cardiff. Romsley. Birmingham. Bewdley.

CONTENTS. 1. M E M B E R S A N D A S S O C I A T E S .

2. E D I T O R I A L .

3. S T A T U S O F G E E S E I N W A R W I C K S H I R E . By C. A. N O R R I S .

i. R O T T O N P A R K R E S E R V O I R . By W. E. G R O V E S .

5. U P T O N W A R R E N , B R O M S G R O V E . By A. J. M A R T I N .

6. M I G R A N T S .

7. C L A S S I F I E D N O T E S .

8. R E V I E W .

9. F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T .

EDITORIAL. In order to economise paper and meet the increased cost of

production under war conditions, this Report is compressed but contains practically the same matter as in previous issues, excepting the omission of map.

The notes sent in show an increase in number over that for the two previous years. Most of them come from Worcestershire and Bellfields Reservoir in Staffordshire; there are very few from Warwickshire. Some notes in this Report refer to 1939 and 1940.

Amongst various items of interest the appearance of nine Roseate Terns in Staffordshire is most remarkable; a Bean Goose visited Bittell and a Corn Bunting was heard at Malvern. Recent records of the two latter species are extremely scarce.

We shall be grateful if correspondents will send us information about the situation of colonies of Sandmartins and, if possible, the number of pairs that nest at various localities during the 1942 season. Sandmartins appear to have decreased very greatly in the southern part of the area covered by this Report, and more definite knowledge of the status of this bird in the West Midlands seems desirable.

A . J . H A R T H A N .

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Some Birds of Upton Warren

1939-1943

By J.A.Martin

A stretch of water of about ten acres has proved to be very attractive, no doubt owing to its medium to shallow depth, and plenty of cover provided by rushes, iris, etc. During the five years the pool has been watched, the most noticeable feature has been the steady increase in numbers of Teal, Shoveler, Pochard and Wigeon and the appearance of Common Scoter, Garganey and Pintail in 1943.

The formation of the pool is interesting; for many years several meadows were subject to flooding and as a result, land drains were laid, and with the help ofthese the water subsided in about a fortnight. Owing to a stoppage in these drains and heavy rains in 1935, the water remained, and when the rainfall is very excessive the Salwarpe, which runs close by, overflows its banks and feeds the pool. An interesting feature is the line of willows whidi crosses the pool from east to west; these once divided the meadows.

MUTE SWAN. Resident. Successfully nested in 1939-40-43. Seventeen were present on January 31st 1942. CANADA GOOSE. An occasional visitor in small numbers. These are probably from Hewell Grange or Westwood Park.

MALLARD. Resident. The numbers vary from week to week the most seen at one time being thirtyfive. At least one pair nests successfully each year as they find the willows that cross the pool provide secure nesting sites. A brood of fifteen seen on June 8th 1943.

TEAL. Chiefly a winter visitor, although they have been seen in all months; usually arrives during the latter part of August and leaves in April or early May. The largest number noted were fiftyseven on December 5th 1942. One chased by a Lesser Black-backed gull on April 14th 1940.

WIGEON. Irregular Spring and Autumn visitor in small numbers, sometimes staying until end of the year. A pair ofi May 25th, 1941. The largest number being twenty on November 27th, 1943.

SHOVELER. This species has always been oneof the outstanding features of the pool. Usually present from Augustto May. Has been seen in all months. Sometimes present by the end of July or 2BHsx2±±k it may be eatly October before any are seen. A pair stayed until June 11th 1942. The largest number noted were thirty on December 5th 1942 and twentyeight on Nov.6th 1943; both occasions being after heavy rain the preceeding day and night.

POCHARD. A common winter visitor unusual in summer but has been seen in all months. Arrive end of August in small numbers and larger winter flocks by October. Miles usually predominate. The maximum number seen were eightyfive on Nov.6th 1943» and fiftyseven on Nov.7th 1942

TUFTED DUCK. Chiefly a Spring and Autumn visitor in small numbers. The largest number recorded is fourteen on April 2nd, 1942. Present in 1943 from January onwards when three pairs stayed until June 8th and from then on two pairs remaind; one of these pairs nested and a brood of three was seen on August 8th, but only two were reared. This is the fourth nesting record for Wores.

GARGANEY. A pair on April 11th 1943.

PINTAIL. A female on Oct.3rd.1943 four males and two females on Dec.4th 1943. COMMON SCOTER. A female on April 18th and August 8-10th 1943.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE. Regular Spring visitor in small numbers. One pair with three young seen by P.Pincher on Aug.7th 1938 Other attempts to nest in recent years not successful. Usually arrive mid-March and leave in June. Largest number twelve on May 11th 1939.

LITTLE GREBE. Summer visitor from March to October, although two stayed until the end of 1943. Up to four pairs breed annually. The gradual building up of numbers during the Autumn migration is very marked thirtyfive being the most recorded.

MOORHEN. Resident. Up to sixty birds have been noted in Winter.

COOT. Resident and Winter visitor. Their numbers often apprfceeh two hundred in the winter months. About twenty pairs breed but most of their eggs are taken.

UPTON WARREN BROMSGROVE

Mr.A.J.Martin has noted the following birds on a pool of about two acres extent, situated at Upton Warren. Hobby. Seen attacking a flock of Swifts and Swallows on May 22. Wigeon. A pair on May 25. Shoveller. A drake on May 22 and a pair on Sept.3. Redshank. Frequently seen during April until end of June. Dunlin. A single bird April 23-30. Common Sandpiper. Seen twice during last week in April and on four occasions in early May. Green Sandpiper. Two birds on April 16 and again on July 30. A single bird on Aug.12 and 24. Black Tern. One on April 23. "Its head, neck and breast were very dark; the rest of the upper-parts slate grey; its white undertail cosrerts were very noticeable in flight. The tail was short and only slightly forked, the bill appeared to be black; the colour of its legs could not be seen. The bird spent most of the time flying round against a stiff east wind, but was seen to dive and pick up food from the surface of the water on at least two occasions". Black-necked Grebe. A single bird on April 10. "It was larger than the Little Grebe, sat higher in the water, and its white underparts contrasted with the black upperparts very conspicuously. I was puzzled by the bill but can now assume that it was uptilted in the charactaristic fashion of this species." Little Grebe. Pour pairs bred. Great-crested Grebe. Seen between March 15th and June 26, the greatest number being six on May 19. Canada Goose. See on May 10, June 4, and Aug.12. Lesser Black-backed Gull. Single birds on March 29 and April 30.

NOTES ON T H E STATUS OF GEESE IN WARWICKSHIRE.

B y C . A . N O R R I S .

Owing to the difficulty that exists in identifying geese, which are in the main, non-stop migrants, the exact status of Geese in general and Grey Geese in particular has long been a matter of doubt. The following notes do at least improve on Tomes' statements in the Victoria County History of 1904, where of the four species of Grey Geese not one positive record is given, The White Fronted Goose being dismissed with " A straggler only to the county ".

It is unfortunate that for the Grey Lag Goose nothing beyond Tomes' note, " Formerly an occasional visitor, but now unknown to the county," can be added. I have found no record or proof of its ever having been even an occasional visitor, though this seems not improbable if the word "formerly" is extended sufficiently far back.

The white-fronted Goose has been twice recorded since Tomes time. In British Birds Vol. IV., pg. 107., it is stated "one shot by Mr. P. Baker at Earlswood, Warwicks, and others reported. No dates given." In 1939 following extensive flooding in the Avon valley a party of five of these birds arrived on Jan. 17 on the meadows above Alveston Wier. They remained there for four days and were seen repeatedly by Col. Brocklebank and M. Kemble.

Tomes stated of the Bean Goose that of the flights of wild geese that pass over, a few drop out and after a rest renew their journey. Individuals of this species were most frequently known to have done so. To that I can add nothing, but point out that no positive records of this species either before or after 1904 have been found by me.

The Pink-footed Goose is given much the same status as the Bean by Tomes but he adds that it must be regarded as of very rare occurance in the county. Since 1904 I have only two positive records of this species. About Jan. 13, 1939, M. Kemble saw a flight of nine birds which passed quite close ever him when he was on the road between Alveston and Charlecote Park, whilst on

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Jan. 23 seven arrived on the meadow at Alveston, vacated only four days before by the White-fronts, and remained there for a week, where they were seen and shot at by a number of people but without apparent damage to the birds.

Before passing to the Black geese it is well to consider the many reports of grey geese and their passage across the county. Nearly all the records indicate that the direction of migration is from east to west, whilst farmers and other people in the Avon valley all point out that they follow the river down. These flocks are far less rare than is generally supposed and it is certain that in some years many hundreds pass down the Severn estuary. Whilst the evidence points to an almost regular movement from north-east to south-west there is practically no evidence of a return migration and it is of interest to note that the autumn and winter records far outnumber those in the Spring.

The Barnacle Goose according to Tomes was " of very uncertain appearance, indeed a mere straggler," and to this I can add nothing. The Brent Goose have caused no little trouble particularly on account of F. Colburn's statement in the " Zoologist" of 1898 and elsewhere, on what he reported to be an adult male Black Brent which was shot on November 6, 1897. Subsequent investigation of Colburn's Black Brents showed that they were in fact Dark Breasted Brents, (British Birds, Vol. 22, pg. 91). Of more recent date there are two Brent records, that from Bartley on March 23, 1934, of which the race is not recorded and that of a party of ten which stayed for a few hours on the Alveston river meadows on Jan. 25, 1941. Of this party one was shot and its sub-specific status definitely determined. Both this bird and the other nine were of the dark brested form.

Of the Canada Goose Tomes states that it has several times been shot in the county, once at Chesterton. It would seem to have been less common formerly than it is today. It was recorded from Middleton Hall in 1895 and nested in Edgbaston Park in 1886 and 1940. In recent years it has received a considerable degree of protection at Combe Abbey where I have seen as many as forty birds. These inevitably stray and it is probably from here that most Warwickshire birds originate.

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ROTTON PARK RESERVOIR. B y W . E . GROVES.

The birds seen at this reservoir have been the subject of notes in the Reports of 1936 and 1939. It has been emphasised that it is the nearest water to the centre of the city,—1J miles, and that it abuts on a manufacturing district. It is this consideration that gives particular interest to the bird life to be found there. Extensive draining under war conditions has entirely altered the character of the site. The normal bed of the reservoir is now covered with grasses, sedges, etc., and is intersected with several small streams fringed with water plants. Between these streams are large areas of persicaria, goosefoot, bur-marigold, etc.

The reduction of the water area to a few acres generally excludes the ducks which have been of outstanding interest to the bird-watcher in the winter of recent years. A number of Mallard have however been seen when the ground was free from visitors, and Black headed Gulls are still faithful to the little water left to them.

This transformation has proved attractive to many birds which would probably have passed on under usual conditions. Yellow Wagtails have been numerous, particularly in juveniles in the autumn. Large flocks of Linnets feed on the seeds of various plants and many Skylarks and Meadow Pipits are present during the winter months.

Except in the driest weather the ground is bogey and Snipe pay-more attention to it. Early in Jan. 1942 three Jack Snipe were put up from the rough grass,—the first time that this winter visitor has been noted at the reservoir.

In the 1939 Report it was stated that the number of species that had been seen at this reservoir was 53. This has now been increased to 58 by the addition of Wheatear. Spotted Flycatcher, Ringed Plover, White Wagtail and Jack Snipe.

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UPTON WARREN, BROMSGROVE. Mr. A. J. Martin has noted the following birds on a pool of about

two acres extent, situated at Upton Warren. Hobby. Seen attacking a flock of Swifts and Swallows on May 22. Wigeon. A pair on May 25. Shoveller. A drake on May 22 and a pair on Sept. 3. Tufted Duck. Seen during every month except July and October. Redshank. Frequently seen during April until end of June. Dunlin. A single bird April 23—30. Common Sandpiper. Seen twice during last week in April and on four occasions in early May. Green Sandpiper. Two birds on April 16 and again on July 30. A single bird on Aug. 12 and 24. Black Tern. One on April 23. " I t s head, neck and breast were very dark ; the rest of the upper-parts slate grey; its white undertail coverts were very noticeable in flight. The tail was short and only slightly forked, the bill appeared to be black; the colour of its legs could not be seen. The bird spent most of the time flying round against a stiff east wind, but was seen to dive and pick up food from the surface of the water on at least two occasions." Black necked Grebe. A single bird on April 10. " It was larger than the Little Grebe, sat higher in the water, and its white underparts contrasted with the black upperparts very con-spicuously. I was puzzled by the bill but can now assume that it was uptilted in the charactaristic fashion of this species." Little Grebe. Four pairs bred. Great-crested Grebe. Seen between March 15 and June 26, the greatest number being six on May 19. Canada Goose. Seen on May 10, June 4, and Aug. 12. Lesser Black-backed Gull. Single birds on March 29 and April 30.

MIGRANTS. Summer Migrants.

Arrival. C H I F F C H A F F .

Mar . 15. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . ) „ 20. Randan ( F . F . ) „ 21. Bransford ( H . J . T . )

W I L L O W - W R E N . Apr . 5. Upton Warren (A . J .M. )

„ 12. R a n d a n ( F . F . ) „ 15. Dowles ( J . S . E . )

Oct. Sept.

5. 30. 2 6 .

Last seen.

Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . J Bellfields ( H . G . A . ) Bromsgrove ( A . J . M . )

Sept. 7. Selly Oak ( H . G . A . ) Aug. 31. Upton Warren (A. J .M. )

5

Arrival. Last seen. S A N D M A R T I N .

Mar. 22. Bittell (C .K . J . ) Sept. 29. Bromsgrove ( F . F . ) „ 23. Bellfields ( G . M . K . )

S W A L L O W . Apr. 6. Bellfields ( W . F . I . ) Oct. 12. Bromsgrove ( F . F . )

, , 7. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) 9. Cofton ( H . G . A . ) „ 13. Evesham (A.J .M. ) „ 6. Rugby ( J .P .P . )

T R E E P I P I T . -

Apr. 17. Randan (F .F . ) Sept . 5. Selly Oak ( H . G . A . ) „ 20. Bransford ( H . J . T . ) J» 3. Randan (F .F . ) y „ 22. Lickey ( H . G . A . )

Y E L L O W W A G T A I L . Apr. 17. Bittell (C .K.J . ) Sept. 5. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . )

, , 25. Bellfields ( W . F . I . ) 3. Woodcote (F. F.) „ 26. Curdworth ( A . A . K . W . ) Aug. 31. Up ton Warren (A.J .M.)

B L A C K C A P , Apr. 17. Woodcote ( F . F . )

, , 22. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . ) „ 30. Dowles ( J .S .E . )

R E D S T A R T . Apr . 17. Randan (F .F . ) Aug. 31. Up ton Warren (A.J .M.)

,, 22. Lickey ( H . G . A . ) , , 26. Hagley ( G . M . K . )

C U C K O O . Apr. 18. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) Aug. 31. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . )

„ 22. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) I J 30. Selly Oak (H .G .A . ) „ 27. Randan (F .F . ) J 1 11. Randan (F .F . )

W H I T E T H R O A T . Apr. 22. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . ) Sept. 20. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . )

, , 28. Bromsgrove (F .F . ) Aug. 31. Up ton Warren (A . J .M. ) L E S S E R W H I T E T H R O A T .

Apr. 25. Sheriffs Lench (A J. H . ) Aug. 31. Woodcote (F .F . ) , , 28. Woodcote ( F . F . )

May 3. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) H O U S E M A R T I N .

Apr. 27. Up t o n Warren (A.J .M.) Dec. 10. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) May 2. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) Oct . 18. Bellfields ( W . F . I . )

, , 13. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . ) ff 13. Bishampton (A.J H . ) N I G H T I N G A L E .

Apr. 27. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . ) July 28. Randan (F .F . ) May 4. Randan (F .F . )

, , 14. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) G A R D E N W A R B L E R .

May 4. Randan (F .F . ) „ 9. Barnt Green (C .K . J . )

6

Arrival. W O O D W A R B L E R .

May 1. Blakedown (G .M.K. ) ,, 3. Lickey ( H . G . A . )

S E D G E W A R B L E R . May 4 Bellfields (C.K.J . )

„ 10. Harvington ( A . J . H . ) „ 18. Upton Warren (A.J .M.)

R E E D W A R B L E R . May 14. Bittell ( H . G . A . )

„ 18. Eckington ( A . J . H . ) G R A S S H O P P E R W A R B L E R .

May 2. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) ,, 4. Randan (F .F . )

M A R S H W A R B L E R . June 6. Avon ( A . J . H . )

T U R T L E D O V E . May 3. Randan ( F . F . )

, , 8. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) ,, 13. Sheriffs Lench (A . J .H . )

C O R N C R A K E . May 11. Kinver ( G . M . K . )

,, 18. Eckington ( A . J . H . ) x W H I N C I I A T .

May 10. „ 10.

S W I F T . Apr. 27. May 1.

I.

Harvington ( A . ) . H . ) Catshill ( F . F . )

Upton Warren (A.J .M.) Biakedown (G .M.K. ) Randan ( F . F . )

S A N D P I P E R . Apr. 16. Bellfields ( W . E . G . )

, , 19. Dowles ( J .S .E . ) „ 20. Eckington. ( A . J . H . )

F L Y C A T C H E R . May 7. Upton Warren (A.J. M.)

„ 14. Barnt Green (C .K.J . ) „ 17. Hagley ( G . M . K . )

N I G H T J A R . June (12. Randan ( F . F . )

Last seen.

Aug. 9. Ullenhall ( A . A . K . W . ) July 9. Dodford ( F . F . )

July 24. Randon (F .F . )

Sept. 11. Hagley ( G . M . K . )

Aug. 29. Selly Oak ( H . G . A . ) „ 28. Sheriffs Lench ( A . J . H . )

Sept. 30. Bellfields ( H . G . A . ) „ 4. Evesham ( A . J . H . ) ,, 13. Edgbaston ( W . E . G . )

19. Bromsgrove (W. E .G. ) 9. Bittell ( H . G . A . )

31. Upton Warren (A.J .M.)

Sept.

Aug.

Winter Migrants. R E D W I N G .

Oct. 5. Selly Oak ( H . G . A . ) Apr. 7. Randan ( F . F . ) , , 8. Randon ( F . F . ) Mar . 27. Bittell ( H . G . A . )

F I E L D F A R E . Oct. 23. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) Apr. 27. Eckington ( A . J . H . )

,, 23. Randan ( F . F . ) *> 5. Randan (F .F . ) „ 23. Sheriffs Lench (A.J. H.) Mar . 18. Bellfields ( H . G . A . )

S I S K I N . Oct. 23. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) Mar. 16. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) Nov. 8. Randan (F .F . )

B R A M B L I N G . Oct . 9. Bittell ( H . G . A . )

,, 10. Randan (F .F . ) J A C K S N I P E .

Oct. 16. Bittell ( H . G . A . ) Mar. 18. Bellfields ( H . G . A . ) G O L D E N - E Y E . Oct . 18. Bartley ( H . G . A . ) May 4. Bellfields ( H . G . A . )

W I G E O N . Aug. 27. Bellfields ( H . G . A . ) May 4. Bellfields ( H . G . A . )

G O O S A N D E R . Nov. 20. Bittell ( H . G . A )

CLASSIFIED NOTES. B.B. = " British Birds."

I = Warwickshire. II = Worcestershire. I l l = South Staffordshire. Hawfinch. I. Two at Selly Oak, 26.4, were the first seen for two

years (H.G.A.). II. A few in Lickey woods in Feb. and April (H.G.A.). Single bird seen at Sheriffs Lench, 22.1 (A.J.H.).

Siskin. II. Bittell. A flock of 50 or more was seen 23.12 (H.G.A.), Frequent in Randan Woods during Dec. (F.F.), and A J.M. noted a flock of 20 birds at Bromsgrove 4.1.

Lesser Redpoll. II. Regularly present in Randan woods from end of Oct. until mid-April (F.F.). A small party was seen feed-ing on Tansy heads alongside the river at Bewdley, 4.11 (J.S.E.).

Corn Bunt ing . II. One was heard on the hills above Malvern Wells in Aug. (H.J.T.).

Snow Bunting. II. One flew around Upper Bittell and nearly settled but then made off again N.W., 20.11 (H.G.A.).

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Tree Sparrow. II. A flock of 100 was seen at Bromsgrove in Jan. (A.J.M.). At Sheriffs Lench about 50 frequented the same farmland where up to 300 wintered last year (A.J.H.).

Black Redstart. II. A male bird was seen at close quarters at Cofton Tea Rooms, Lickey, 24.5. It returned several times to pick up crumbs. It was not seen subsequently (W.W.S.).

Water Pipit. II. One at Bransford, 7.12 H. J.T. writes of this bird, that its call " Tseep-tseep-tseep-" was more emphatic than that of the Meadow Pipit. He also noted that its upper plumage was dark greyish brown and unstreaked and that the underparts were whiteish, deepening almost to buff at the sides of the breast, and giving an effect somewhat reminiscent of a Redwing. The outer tail feathers were white.

Yellow Wagtail . The cold north and easterly winds that prevailed during the last week in April held up many migrants and partic-ularly Yellow Wagtails, which appeared in small parties near pools and rivers over a wide area. Several hundred of both sexes were noted at Curdworth, 26.4 (A.A.K.W.), and about fifty at Bellfields (W.F.I.). They were also plentiful in the Avon river meadows (A.J.H.) and at Rotton Park Reservoir (W.E.G.), but the only record from Bittell is of six on 25.4 (C.K.J.). On May 10th a "probable" female Blue-headed Wagtail with white chin and throat, greyish back and grey crown was seen in company with six Yellow Wagtails at Curdworth (A.A.K.W). A.J.H. saw a similar bird at Sheriffs Lench on May 4th in company with Yellow Wagtails, but since the latter vary considerably in plumage, even in Spring, it is difficult to identify a genuine Blue-headed Wagtail in the field, and especially females.

Grey Wagtai l . II. Nests regularly along the Teme and its tributaries (H.J.T.). G.M.K. saw a pair feeding young at Hagley 11.5.

White Wagtai l . I. Two at Rotton Park Reservoir, 8.9 (W.E.G.). II. Bittell. Single birds on 7.2 and 28.4 (H.G.A., C.K.J.).

Long* Tailed Tit. II. Has made a good recovery in numbers after being much reduced by winter of January 1940. Single family parties were noted in woods at Lickey, Randan, Bransford and Sheriffs Lench (C.K.J., F.F., H.J.T., A.J.H.).

WillOW Tit . II. A pair noted at Bransford in Nov. and two pairs in open country at Sheriffs Lench throughout the year (H.J.T., A.J.H.). I I I . A small party was seen at Maple Hayes Park, Lichfield 4.8 (J.E.B.).

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Firecrest . II. The bird which was identified in the Lickey woods in Nov. 1940, was last seen there, 18.1.41 (H.G.A.).

Nuthatch, II. Heard at Randan, where this species has become very scarce in recent years (F.F.).

Wood Warbler. II. 6—7 pairs were present in the eastern part of Randan woods (F.F.).

Grasshopper Warbler. I. A bird, which was no doubt a Grass-hopper Warbler, was reported to W.E.G. as singing in Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, during the second week in May. II. 4—5 birds were heard singing at Randan (F.F.).

Whinehat . II. Several regular haunts between Dodford and Bromsgrove, and 4—5 pairs around Wildmoor (F.F.).

Swal low. I I I . A pure white albino was seen near Bellfields, 5-10 (W.F.I.).

N i g h t j a r . II. Reappeared at Randon after an absence of 2 years (F.F.).

Green Woodpecker . II. Has recovered to about 25% of its numbers before the ice storm of Jan. 1940, in the Randan and Lenches districts (F.F., A.J.H.).

Cuckoo. II. Was again heard calling at a late date, viz. 2.7 at Himbledon (J.S.E.), and Randon (F.F.), Pershore 8.7 (A.J.H.).

Dipper. II. Nested in the Clent district (D.C., W.E.G.). Breeds regularly at three stations on the Teme and its tributaries (H.J.T.). Nested at Hampton and Hinton, near Evesham (A.J.H.).

Hobby. II. One was seen dashing through a crowd of Swallows and Swifts over a pool at Upton Warren on May 22nd. Its long narrow wings and short, square ended tail were noticed. The Swallows and Swifts disappeared like magic but came back after the lapse of a quarter hour (A.J.M.).

Merlin. II. One chasing a flock of Starlings at Sheriffs Lench, 18.11 (A.J.H.).

Buzzard. I. A bird, probably of this species, was seen soaring at a considerable height above Acocks Green, B'ham., at 2-40 p.m. on April 24 by A.A.K.W. who has seen Buzzards in Wales. One above Breedon Hill on April 29 (A.J.H.).

Sparrow Hawk. II. At Sheriffs Lench A.J.H. saw a female attack a flock of passing Black Headed Gulls in March, and the same bird stoop on to a wooden decoy pigeon in Nov.

10

Bewick Swan. I. Wootton Wawen. Three adult, two juv. 26 and 27.12 (C.A.N.)• III . Bellfields. Four adult, two juv. 21.12 (W.F.I.).

White-Fronted Goose. I. Five on river meadows at Alveston, 17.1.39 (C.A.N.). II. At Sheriffs Lench A.J.H. saw 74 flying N.W. to S.E. 1.1, and 478 in ten flocks S.W. to N.E. 12.1. Three more flocks of about fifty birds each, were noted flying in the same direction during the first week in February. III. Bellfields. About 50 at end of December until January 5. (W.F.I.).

Bean Goose. II. Bittell. One, 27.3. The dark bill with pale nail was seen and the birds " Honk" seemed to be in a lower key than that of other grey geese (H.G.A., C.K.J.)

Pink Foot Goose. I. Nine, 13.1, 39 and seven, 23.1.39 at Alveston (C.A.N.).

Brent Goose. I. Ten, of the dark breasted form, stayed a few hours on the river meadows at Alveston, 25.1.41 (C.A.N.).

Sheld-Duck. II. Bittell. Five, 10.4 (C.K.J.). I II . Bellfields. One, 9.3 (W.F.I.). Two, 27.9 (J.H.S., W.F.I.). Two, 28.12 (W.F.I.).

Teal. III. Bellfields. Present throughout the year but scarce in July (J.H.S.). About eight, 29.7, and fifty 27.8 (H.G.A.).

Garganey. II. A drake and four ducks at Eckington, 30.3 (A.J.H.) III . Bellfields. At least six, 29.7 and 27.8. One. 30.9 (H.G.A.).

Wigeon . III . Bellfields. Last seen 7.5 (J.H.S.). One present in June (W.F.I.), also 27.8, and two 30 9 (H.G.A.).

Pintail. I. Edgbaston Park. One drake, 23.12. No previous record for this pool (J.P.P.). I II . Bellfields. A pair, 16.3 (W.F.I.), a drake, 10.5 (J.H.S.).

Shoveller. Upton Warren. A drake, 22.5 and a pair 3.9 (A.J.M.). II. Bittell. Two, 4.4 (C.K.J.), three, 16.8 and two, 19.12 (H.G.A., C.K.J.). III . Bellfields. Two pairs, 4.5, six birds, 29.7 (H.G.A., C.K.J.). Increased from 20 to 80 during November and December (W.F.I., J.H.S.).

P o c h a r d . I. Four, 30.11, thirty-six, 27.12 at Edstone (C.A.N.). I II . Bellfields. Present throughout the year (J.H.S.). Two, 12.6 (W.F.I.).

11

Tufted Duek. I. Seventeen, 27.12 at Edstone (C.A.N.). Thirty-five in Dec., Edgbaston Park (J.P.P.). I I I . Bellfields. Always present (J.H.S.), rarely more than 50 birds (W.F.I.).

Goldeneye. I. A duck and juvenile at Wootten Wawen 27.12 (C.A.N.). II . Bittell. One. 5.4 (C.K.J.). A "pair arrived 20.11 (H.G.A.), five birds 19.12 (C.K.J.). I I I . Bellfields. Last seen 11.5 a single bird (A.J.H.). Returned, 9.11 (J.H.S.).

Common Scoter . I I . Bittell. Two, 2.8 (C.K.J.). Velve t Scoter . II . Bittell. Three, 13.16.1 (H.G.A., C.K.J.,

C.W.K.W.). Goosander. II . Bittell. Four, 14.1. A pair arrived 20.11 and

stayed until end of year (H.G.A., C.K.J.). I I I . Bellfields. Forty three, 12.1. Last seen, two birds, 30.3. Returned, one bird, 2.12, twenty three, 21.12 (W.F.I

Smew. II . Bittell. A drake arrived 2.1 and stayed three days C.K.J., W.E.G.). I I I . Bellfields. Three brown-heads, 27.12 (J.H.S.). Three drakes at Gailey, 16.1 (H.G.A., C.K.J.). Three drakes and nine brown-heads, 4.1. One drake and one brownhead, 23.2 (W.F.I.).

Cormorant . II. Bittell. Two, 25.4, one 16.8 (H.G.A., C.K.J.). III . Bellfields. Not so numerous as last year (J.H.S.). One to three birds seen on various dates in March, May, November and December (W.F.I., H.G.A., C.K.J.).

Great Crested Grebe. I I I . Bellfields. Were present through-out the year except during the frost. The numbers were not so large as in 1940, when I counted 59 on July 22nd and 61 on November 7th. In 1941 my maximum count was 38 on July 20th. From the frost until May 7th there were only six birds, but the number rose to 15 by June 2nd, and thereafter fluctuated as a rule between 20 and 30 birds. This is roughly only two-thirds of the numbers present in 1940. There are several points about the Great Crested Grebes at Bellfields:—(1) A large proportion of the birds during the breeding season appear to be non-breeding birds, and during this period especially almost the whole population may at times be seen resting in one flock.

12

Their gregariousness is very striking. Thus on 20.7.40 there were 38 birds—12 of these were in pairs scattered along the shores—presumably breeding birds. The remaining 26 formed a solid flock in the middle of the Reservoir. (2) They breed late—This is presumably due to their dependence on the water-weeds. The first nest was seen on the 18th June, and on that date another bird had weeds in its bill and appeared to be building. On the 20th July I found 4 nests (floating) but unoccupied. On the 27th July I saw a bird sitting on one of these. Young were seen for the first time on the 7th August. Only 4 young birds were reared on the Reservoir, so that the number hatched is very small. The Reservoir is unfavourable for nesting owing to its shallow edges and the rapid retreat of the water in summer, but they certainly nest here very much later than they do in neighbouring ponds, and compared with the total population of birds the number of nesting birds and of young reared is very small (J.H.S.).

Little Grebe. III . Bellfields. The West end of the Reservoir presented an outstanding sight during the beginning of August, when a fleet of Little Grebes, several adults and numerous young, kept close together. On the 6th August I counted a flotilla of 31 birds. There seemed to be 3 families, though as they were continually mingling it was impossible to be certain. It was noticeable how when the young birds were chased by Coots they invariably flew instead of diving (J.H.S., W.F.I ).

Slavonian Grebe. II . Bittell. A single bird was present from Nov. 20—Dec. 11 (H.G.A., C.K.J.).

Black-Necked Grebe. II . Bittell. Two, 20 and 23.11 (H.G.A., C.K.J.). One at Upton Warren, 10.4 (A.J.M.).

Great Northern Diver. I I I . One at Patshull, 12.1 (G.M.K., C.K.J.).

Red Throated Diver. I. A bird in partial summer plumage, with a spot of red on its neck, was seen at Earlswood, 5.5 (H.G.A.).

Black Tailed Godwit . I I I . Bellfields. A pair from 7—11.5 (J.H.S.. A.J.H.).

Whimbrel . II. A flock heard flying over Bransford, 10.5.40 (H.J.T.). A flock heard flying over Sheriffs Lench at night, 14.9.41 (A.J.H.). III. Bellfields. A pair, 10.8 (J.H.S.).

13

Grey Phalarope. III. Bellfields. One, was present during first week in December, 1940 (H.G.A., W.F.I.).

Turnstone. III. Bellfields. Single birds 22.8, 27.8 and 4.9 (C.K.J., J.H.S., W.F.I., H.G.A.).

Knot. I I I . Bellfields. One, 28.12 (W.F.I.). Dunlin. I. One, Rotton Park Reservoir, 15.8 (W E.G.)

II. Bittell. Seen on four occasions last week in April and on eight occasions during May, ten birds, 30.4. Single birds 5.6 and 16.10 (H.G.A , C.K J., W.E.G.). Upton Warren. A single bird, 23—30.4 (A.J.M.). I II . Bellfields. Three, 17.5 (W.F.I.), two, 29.7 (H.G.A.), ten, 10.8, forty, 30.11 (W.F.I.).

Sanderl ing. II. Bittell. Single ''birds, 13.5, 14.5 and 20.5 (C.K.J., H.G.A., W.E.G.).

Ruff. III. Bellfields. Two 22.8 until 4.9 (C.K.J., J.H.S., W.F.I., H.G.A.)

Common Sandpiper. I. Rotton Park Reservoir. Two, 3—13-9 (W.E.G.). II. Bittell. Seen in late April, May, Aug. and Sept. (H.G.A , C.K.J.). Upton Warren. Seen on several occasions in April and May (A.J.M.). I I I . Bellfields. Present on numerous occasions during July until end of September (J.H.S., W.F.I.).

Green Sandpiper. II. Upton Warren. Two seen 16.4 and 30.7. One bird, 12 and 24.8 (A.J.M.). Bittell. One, 7.8 (C.K.J.) III . Bellfields. One or two birds seen on various occasions August until end of November (W.F.I., J.H.S.).

Greenshank. II. Bittell. One, 30.4 (C.K.J.). I II . Bellfields. Three, 10.8 (J.H.S.).

Ringed Plover. I. One at Rotton Park Reservoir, 15.8, a first record from this place (W.E.G.). II. Bittell. Seen on seven occasions in Ma)', largest number eight on the 15th (H.G.A., C.K.J., W.E.G.). III . Bellfields. Three, 7.5 (J.H.S.), seven, 17.5 (W.F.I.). Seen on numerous occasions during August and Sept., the great-est number being seven, 25.9 (W.F.I., J.H.S.).

14

Grey Plover. I I I . Bellfields. One, 23.11 (W.F.I.). Oyster Catcher. II. Bittell. One, 7.5 (C.K.J.).

I I I . Bellfields. One, 6.4 (W.F.I.). Black Tern. II. One at Upton Warren, 23.4 (A.J.M.).

I I I . Bellfields. Two, 20 5 (W.F.I.). An immature, 21.9 (J.H.S.). Roseate Tern. I I I . Bellfields. Nine were seen by W.F.I, on the

evening of June 4th. One Common or Arctic Tern was present at same time but kept apart from the Roseates which were much tamer and passed quite close giving an excellent view of their bills which were completely black save for a faint reddish colour at the base. Their tails looked very white and were well forked and long. No rosy flush on their breasts was noted. They were observed with the aid of X 16 binoculars for over an hour. [Such a visitation of Roseate Terns far inland is most exceptional, but Terns are notably erratic in behaviour and frequently appear in unexpected places:—therefore we publish the observed facts and put them on record. A.J.H.]

Common Tern. II. Bittell. One with a damaged wing but able to fly arrived 14.5 and stayed for three weeks. Another arrived 17.5. In the autumn a juvenile and two adults were seen on 17, 18 and 19th of October (H.G.A., C.K.J.).

Arctic Tern. II. Bittell. Single birds, 17.5 and 14 and 19.10 (H.G.A.). III . Bellfields. Birds, either Common or Arctic, were noted in May, June and August (W.F.I., J.H.S.).

Black Headed Gull III. Bellfields. W.F.I, picked up a dead bird which bore a ring marked Zoolog. Museum, Denmark, on one of its legs, 6.4.

Common Gull. I I I . Bellfields. One, 16.1, four, 18.3 and 1.11 (H.G.A.). This species is not often observed at this reservoir.

Great Black Backed Gull. II. Single birds were seen flying north at Sheriffs Lench on two occasions during March and April. I I I . Bellfields. Single birds, 16.1 (H.G.A.), and 27.12 (J.H.S., H.G.A.).

Kit t iwake . III. Bellfields. W.F.I, found a dead juvenile on 20.5.

15

REVIEW. Handbook of Birds of the Malvern District: By J. G. Harrison. University of London Press. 2/6 net.

Mr. Harrison, during his schooldays at Malvern College, has compiled a useful little handbook of the birds of the Malvern district. His district is not very clearly defined and he includes birds recorded in recent. Birmingham Bird Reports from Evesham and the Lenches. Otherwise, nearly all his records seem to be from the immediate neighbourhood of the Malvern hills, and his notes on the status of each of the commoner species evidently applies to a restricted area, partly in Worcestershire and partly in Herefordshire.

Mr. Harrison has had access to some earlier lists, but it is a pity that he does not seem to have been in touch with Mr. J. D. Wood, who knew the district well eight or ten years ago.

This handbook, with a blank sheet opposite each page for notes, should encourage further observations in the Malvern district. Meanwhile a few com-ments on certain points may be made here. Mr. Wood and other observers could no doubt have added to the very sparse Brambling records. The Woodlark should not be described as a summer visitor : where it occurs it is resident throughout the year. The Willow Tit has been recorded from Suckley, and I believe also from Colwall. The birds recorded as Continental Song Thrushes were perhaps Hebridean birds. The Dipper has been observed recently at Suckley. Nightjars could still be heard at the southern end of the hills ten years ago. The lack of mention of the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker from the Malvern district in an earlier number of this Report, where its status in these counties was surveyed, was simply due to lack of observers at Malvern. Mr. Harrison is mistaken in supposing that the Cormorant is uncommon inland. A sight record of a Whimbrel fiying over is quite valueless; but as the observer was Mr. Harrisons House master, it would perhaps be embarrassing for him to omit the record ! It would have been interesting to know in which months Herring Gulls have been observed.

These comments are not intended to suggest that Mr. Harrison's book is unreliable. It is a careful and useful compilation and Mr. Harrison would no doubt be the first to recognise that much remains to be learnt of the status of many of the species he has been able to record. H . G . A .

Copies of this Report can'be obtained from Messrs. Cornish Bros. Messrs. IV. H. Smith <5f Son or the Hon. Sec. IV. E. Groves, 4, Lyttelton Road, Edgbaston.

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