Sponsored by Report on rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 · Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 517 records of species new to Britain, to be verified also by the British Ornithologists

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Report on rare birds in Great Britain in 1986

Michael J. Rogers and the Rarities Committee with comments by S. J. M. Gantlett

This is the twenty-ninth annual report of the Rarities Committee. For the fifth consecutive year, the work of the Committee was supported

by the very welcome sponsorship of ZEISS West Germany. This much-appreciated financial assistance enables us to deal more effectively with both the processing and the publication of records and to include photographs and drawings of some of the rarities within this report.

Rarities Committee membership is listed on the inside front cover each month, and on the back of the title page in each volume. Points of interest arising mainly from the Committee 's annual meeting in April 1987 have been published already in 'Rarities Committee news and announcements ' (Brit. Birds 80: 421-423). It is pertinent to reiterate that Crane Grus grus and Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis will be removed from the list of species assessed by the Committee with effect from 1st January 1988. Observers are reminded that, from then onwards, full details of Crane and Ring-billed Gull sightings will be required by the appropriate county and regional recorders.

Details of the Commit tee ' s consti tut ion and operation have been published recently in 'Rare birds: the work of the British Birds Rarities Committee ' (Brit. Birds 80: 487-491) and are contained in a fact sheet, a copy of which may be obtained from the Secretary, Michael J . Rogers, whose address is at the end of this report. Also available from the Secretary is a list of the species considered by the Committee (12 of these have since been removed from the list: see Brit. Birds 75: 338; 80: 421-423), and copies of the Rarities Committee Record Form, which should be used (or its format followed) when submit t ing repor ts . Please enclose a stamped-addressed envelope of suitable size when requesting any of these items. All reports of any species on the Committee 's list should be sent to the Secretary or, in the case of a trapped and ringed rarity, to the B T O Ringing Office, both preferably via the appropriate county or regional recorder.

1986 and earlier years The Committee has already dealt with 660 records for 1986, 79% of which have been accepted. A total of 293 records for 1986 and earlier years is still under consideration for a variety of reasons, including late submission, lack of adequate details, a need to refer to experts or to investigate escape likelihood here and on the Continent, the occasional intentional delay pending better definition of identification criteria, the requirement, for

516 [Brit. Birds 80: 516-571, November 1987]

Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 517

records of species new to Britain, to be verified also by the British Ornithologists' Union Records Committee, and several other factors.

Pre-1986 records with which the Committee is currently involved include several Little Shearwaters Puffinus assimilis, Wilson's Petrels Oceanites oceanicus and Madeiran Petrels Oceanodroma castro, two Falcated Ducks Anas falcata, Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris, several Common Scoters Melanitta nigra americana and Red-necked Stints Calidris ruftcollis, two Long-toed Stints C. subminuta, several South Polar Skuas Stercorarius maccormicki, Rufous Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis, Oriental Cuckoo Cuculus saturatus, Egyptian Nightjar Caprimulgus aegyptius, two American Pipits Anthus rubescens, several Northern Mockingbirds Mimus polyglottos, Blyth's Reed Warbler Acrocepkalus dumetorum, several Collared Flycatchers Ficedula albicollis, two Short-toed Tretecreepers Certhia brachydac-tyla, two Brown Shrikes Lanius cristatus, several Arctic Redpolls Carduelis homemanni, two Pine Buntings Emberiza leucocephalos, and two Yellow-headed Blackbirds Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus.

The Committee is also engaged upon reviews of both past and pending records of black-headed Yellow Wagtails Motacilla Jiava feldegg, Citrine Wagtails M. citreola, Olivaceous Warblers Hippolais pallida and Isabelline Shrikes Lanius isabellinus.

Pre-1986 records still being investigated by the BOU Records Committee include those concerning Yellow-nosed Albatross Diomedea chlororhyn-chos, Barrow's Goldeneye Bucephala islandica, White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala, Oriental Pratincole Glareola maldivarum, Eagle Owl Bubo bubo, White-winged Lark Melanocorypha kucoptera, Stonechat Saxicola torquata variegata, Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius, Varied Thrush Zoothera naevia, Daurian Starling Sturnus stuminus, Wilson's Warbler WUsonia pusilla, Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pensylvanica, Yellow-browed Bunting Emberiza chrysopkrys, Chestnut Bunting E. rutila, and Painted Bunting Passerina ciris.

Acknowledgments We wish to express our gratitude to observers and to county and regional recorders, bird observatory wardens and reserve wardens and their committees for their continued co-operation upon which the work of the Rarities Committee is totally dependent, and without which this report would not be so complete and accurate. We should like to thank the Irish Rare Birds Committee and the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee for permission to include their accepted records, and their respective secretaries, Patrick Smiddy and Mrs P. M. Vizard, for supplying the details which enable us to provide a complete review and running totals of all rare birds records in the geographical unit of Britain and Ireland. We are grateful to Trevor Copp for liaising over Channel Islands rarity records, which are adjudicated by the Committee: accepted records are included in the report, but not in the running totals.

In addition, we are indebted to many individuals and organisations for assistance during the past year. S. J. M. Gantlett has written the report's

518 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986

species comments and D. J. Britton has compiled the running totals for each species, a feature he originated. The Seabirds Advisory Panel, whose members are P. Harrison (Secretary), P. R. Colston, W. F. Curtis, J. Enticott and B. A. E. Marr, has commenced operations and the BTO, the NCC, the RSPB and the British Museum (Natural History), Tring, have liaised over various matters.

We wish to thank all photographers who have submitted pictures of rarities, a selection of which enhances this report. Photographs and slides, whether or not of sufficient quality for publication, are invariably of great assistance during the process of record assessment, and we wish to encourage their submission along with the written record. We are grateful to those observers who included drawings of rarities in their record submissions. Such sketches, even those w,ith little artistic merit, are of great value to the Committee, but it must be stressed that all drawings should be representations of the bird in question and not general sketches of the species. Some of the drawings submitted with records are included in this report. PGL

Systematic list of accepted records The principles and procedures followed in considering records were explained in the 1958 report {Brit. Birds 53: 155-158). The systematic list is set out in the same way as in the 1985 report (79: 526-588). The following points show the basis on which the list has been compiled.

(i) The details included for each record the characters' of the race concerned. are (1) county; (2) locality; (3) number of birds if more than one, and age and sex if known (in the case of spring and summer records, however, the age is normally given only where the bird concerned was not in adult plumage); (4) if trapped or found dead and where specimen is stored, if known; (5) date(s); and (6) observer(s) up to three in number, in alphabetical order. In accordance with our declared policy (see Brit. Birds 68: 1-4), the new county names have been used, and observers are asked to bear this in mind when submitting records.

(ii) In general, this report is confined to records which are regarded as certain, and 'probables' are not included. In the case of the very similar Long-billed Limnodromus scolopaceus and Short-billed Dowitchers L. griseus, however, we are continuing to publish indeterminate records, and this also applies to observations of pratincoles Glar-eola and of such difficult groups as albatrosses Diomedea and frigatebirds Fregata.

(iii) The sequence of species, English names and specific nomenclature follow The 'British Birds' List of Birds of the Western Palearctic (1984). Any sight records of subspecies (including those of birds trapped and released) are normally referred to as 'showing

(iv) The three numbers in brackets after each species' name refer respectively to the total number of individuals recorded in Britain and Ireland (excluding those 'At sea') (1) to the end of 1957, (2) for the period since the formation of the Rarities Committee in 1958, but excluding (3) the current year. The decision as to whether one or more individuals was involved is often difficult and rather arbitrary, but the consensus of members is indicated by 'possibly the same' (counted as different in the totals), 'probably the same' (counted as the same in totals), or 'the same' when the evidence is certain or overwhelming. An identical approach is applied to records of the same species recurring at the same locality after a lapse of time, including those which occur annually at the same or a nearby site. In considering claims of more than one individual at the same or adjacent localities, the Committee usually requires firm evidence before more than one is counted in the totals. A detailed breakdown of the figures for previous years is held by the Honorary Secretary.

(v) The world breeding range is given in brackets at the beginning of each species comment.


White-billed Diver Gavia adamsii (18, 82, 8) Lothian Hopetoun, age uncertain, 9th March (C. I. & W. G. Prest). Norfolk Blakeney Point, adult, remains only, 28th July, possibly died about February, now at Castle Museum, Norwich (per S.J. M. Gantlett); presumed same as 1985 individual below. Cley, adult, 4th October (D.J. Holman et al.), presumed same, 17th (G. E. Dunmore, M.J. Eccleshall, F. T. Gates et al). Shetland Rae Wick, possibly first-summer, 15th June (M. R. Navin, G. Shorrock et al). Strathclyde Loch Indaal, Islay, adult, moribund, heavily oiled, 27th March (J. Davis, P. Moore). Kennedy's Pass, near Girvan, Ayrshire, 26th April (W. A. Davidson). Bennane Head, Ballantrae, different adult, 27th April (D. L. Clugston, R. H. Hogg, J. K. R. Melrose).

Fig. 1. White-billed Diver Gavia aaamsii (with Black-throated Diver G. arctica), Norfolk, September 1985 {J. A. Hazelt)


263-265. Little Bittern hobrychus minutus, Devon, May-June 1986 (Kelvin Boot)

1983 Shetland Whalsay, first -year, 5th January to 16th March (Brit. Birds 77: 508), now considered adult and same as recorded on 22nd April to 5th May. 1985 Norfolk Blakeney Point, adult, 29th September (C.J. &J. A. Hazell, P. Whiteman.J. Young el al.) (fig. 1); see Norfolk above. 1985 Shetland South Nestings Bay, probably first-summer, 2nd June (I. D., R. C. & Mrs G. M. Broadbent).

(Arctic Russia eastwards to Arctic Canada) In Ireland, one at Ardglass, Co. Down, from 2nd February to the end of March (Brit. Birds 79: plates 147-149). An about average showing, with most in Scotland as usual. The


Norfolk records are the first for that well-watched county, and are only the fifth and sixth ever south of Yorkshire.

Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps (0, 9, 0) 1985 Western Isles Loch na Liana Moire, South Uist, 27th April, 22nd July (Brit. Birds 79: 528), still present 22nd August (T. J. Dix).

(North America)

Black-browed Albatross Diomedea melanophris (2, 23, 0) Shetland Hermaness, Unst, first seen 1972 (Brit. Birds 79: 529), again present, 18th March to 6th September (per D. Coutts) (Brit. Birds 79: plate 215).

(Southern oceans) The fifteenth summer of residence for the Hermaness individual. There have been no new sightings since 1982.

Cory's Shearwater Calonectris diomedea (a few, -, -) (East Atlantic and Mediterranean) No longer considered by the Rarities

Committee; a late record comes from Ireland: 30 at Old Head of Kinsale, Co. Cork, on 13th August 1981.

Wilson's Petrel Oceanites oceankus (4, 5, 0) (Southern oceans) Off Ireland: nine between 64 km and 112 km WSWof

Mizen Head, Co. Cork, on 23rd August (Brit. Birds 79: plate 302). These, together with a number seen in the Western Approaches from the MV Chalice and from the Cornish mainland and still under consideration by the Committee, represent one of the most dramatic events of 1986. Hopefully, British and Irish pelagic birding trips are now likely to become regular events and further discoveries about the status of some of our rarer seabirds may be forthcoming. The record of one off Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 3rd August 1969 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee.

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus (150, 145, 3) Cambridgeshire Woodwalton Fen, cf, 28th to 29th June (R. Harold et al.). Devon Tedburn St Mary, Cf, 30th May to 3rd June (K. Boot, Mr & Mrs A. Redfern) (plates 263-265). Sussex, West Shoreham-by-Sea, 9> 1st to 2nd June (Dr J. A. Newnham et al). 1984 Yorkshire, South Breeding record (Brit. Birds 79: 529), locality was Potteric Carr. 1985 Yorkshire, South Potteric Carr, cf, 19th to 29th May (T. Rhodes).

(West Eurasia, Africa and Australia) Three typical records. Although a male returned to Potteric Carr in 1985, it was disappointing that no female appeared to repeat the breeding of 1984.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax (165, 160, 4) Avon Keynsham and Hanham area, adult, 2nd to 5th May (J. Aldridge, A. H. Davis, C. A. Jury et al.). Humberside Goxhill and East Halton area, second-winter, about 5th to at least 12th October (G. & Y. Beasley, D. Faulding, D. Robinson et al). Orkney Loch of Tankerness, adult, 23rd to 25th May (G. Christer et al.). Suffolk Bawdsey, first-year, recently dead, 14th February (A. R. Gillard, R. Snook et al). 1984 Leicestershire Rutland Water, juvenile, 22nd December to 18th February 1985, found dead 19th (T. P. Appleton, T. C. Davies, C. Park et al.).


1985 Leicestershire See above. 1985 Scilly Si Mary's, adult, 13th October (P. Donald, J. Selwood). 1985 Wiltshire Dinton, adult, 3rd to 10th February (R. L. Howells, S. M. & Mrs C. A. Palmer et al.).

(South Eurasia, Africa and the Americas) Also a late record from Ireland: an immature at River Blackwater, Lough Neagh, Co. Antrim/Co. Tyrone, from 19th to 21st November 1985. Some typical records. The late-autumn and winter occurrences are not unusual.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis (2, 33, 9) Derbyshire Hurst Reservoir area, Glossop, 16th December (S. Wood, G. Wright); same, Thornsett, Watford Lodge and New Mills area, 22nd to 7th January 1987 (J. P. Guest et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 58, 279); same, Doxey Marshes, Stafford, Staffordshire, later on 7th (per A. R. Dean). Devon Kingsbridge, 14th to 20th November (W. Bailey-Lewis, A. F. Doidge, T. Soper et al.). Dumfries & Galloway Black Parks Farm, Stranraer, and Soulseat Loch, 14th October to 20th November (W. Currie, R. W. Forrester, G. Sheppard et al.); same, Milton Lake, near Crockerford, 6th to 14th December (per R. H. Hogg), Hampshire Titchfield Haven, 4th November to 11th January 1987 (S. Caws, B. S. Dumn, P. M. Potts et al.). Lincolnshire North Hykeham, 12th to 25th October (R. J. Campey, M. Davies, Mrs S. Shucksmith et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 17-19). Norfolk Horstead, 30th October (A.J. Prater, Mrs B. Storey, J. Willis et al.); same, Dilham, 31st to 2nd November (D. R. Cowburn, Mr & Mrs R. Westgate). Northumberland Barrasford, 30th September to 11th October (J. Connelly, R. Forsterrfa/.). Somerset Sutton Bingham Reservoir and Lower Key area, adult, since 22nd December 1985, to at least 26th January (Brit. Birds 79: 530; plate 120). Sussex, West Pagham, 30th April to 14th May (P. F. Burns, R. Dexter, D. Sore et al.). Yorkshire, South Adel Dam, 1st to 5th November (T. Rymer et al.). 1985 Cornwall East Looe River, 5th and 8th December (J. & Mrs A. Sanders).

(Almost cosmopolitan in tropics; nearest regular breeding in south of France) As the species spreads in Europe, records might be expected to increase here. The previous best year was 1981, with six.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta (23, 355, 19) Bedfordshire Priory Park, 15th May (R. Brind, G.J. Dennis, P. E. Knight et al). Cleveland South Gare, 18th May (A. Dixon et al.). Cornwall Gweek, 8th to 11th June (A. R. Pay et al.). Ruan Lanihorne, 5th September (S. C. Hutchings, A. D. Tomlin). Hayle, 19th September (D. S. Flumm et al.). Devon Thurlestone, 30th April (N. & Mrs J. M. Huggins). Dyfed See West Glamorgan. Essex East Tilbury area, 22nd June to 14th July (R. G. Beech, P. Fallan, D. A. Witham et al.). Glamorgan, West Berthlwyd area, 20th August to 3rd September, also Loughor Bridge, Dyfed, 1st and 2nd (C. Evans, M. C. Powell, C. Stockton et al). Hampshire Titchfield Haven, 23rd August (D. Bright, Mark J. Palmer et al.). Highland Loch Eyre, Skye, at least 2nd to 7th July (B. & Mrs E. Larsson, W. G. Prest), presumed same as Western Isles individual. Kent Cliffe, 16th July to 10th August (D. Morris). Lincolnshire North Cotes, 29th June (G. K. Brown, H. Bunn), presumed same, Tetney, 2nd July (T. Baker). Norfolk West Acre, near Swaffham, 22nd to 23rd May (H. Birkbeck, N. Bostock et al.). Breydon Water, 27th to 28th May (P. R. Allard, S. Roper). Suffolk Orfordness, 25th June (R. Clarke, C. P. S. Ruffles et al.), presumed same, Havergate, 2nd July to 22nd August (K. Bennett, J. Partridge et al.).

Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 523 Sussex, West Chichester Gravel-pils, 23rd August (M. K. Ahmad, D. VV. Hovell, P. A. St Pierre). Western Isles Balranald area, North Uist, 14th May to 8thJune (Mrs V. Duguid,J. Vaughan et al.), presumed same, Balivanich, Benbecula, 11th (per R. H. Dennis), and subsequently on Skye, Highland, see above. Wight, Isle of Alverstone, 3rd May (J. C. Gloyn, J. Ralf et al.). 1984 Suffolk Minsmere, 30th May to 4th June (D. E. & J. 1). Horrabin et al.). 1985 Cornwall St Winnow, River Fowey, 15thJune to 3rd September (R. Gendall & family et al.). 1985 Devon Yealm Estuary, November 1984 to at least 31st March (Brit. Birds 79: 531), to 9th May (per P. W. Ellicott). 1985 Norfolk Holme, 24th July (V. Eve). 1985 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, 15th May (K. M.Johnston).

(South Eurasia, Africa and Australia) Also two in Ireland: one at Lough Gill, Co. Kerry, on 15th May; and one at Barley Cove, Co. Cork, 24th to 30th May. The increase continues. Seventeen is the lowest number recorded in any year since 1981, yet less than ten were recorded in five out of the ten years before then.

266, Black Stork Cicania nigra, Cumbria, October 1985 (Andrew Moon)

Great White Egret Egretta alba (10, 23, 2) Norfolk Titchwell, 23rd June (S. P. Callaghan, H. R. Harrop, M.J. Keene et al.). Strathclyde Camps Reservoir, Crawford, 16th to 18th June (Sir R. Erskine-Hill et al.). 1985 Norfolk Horsey, 12th and 15thJuly (Brit. Birds 79: 531), full dates Ilth to 16th; visited Hickling 15th (per R. I. Allison el at.).

(Almost cosmopolitan, extremely local in Europe) Records have been annual since 1977, with one or two recorded each year apart from the five in 1985.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea (90, - , —) 1980 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, 1 Ith to 15th April, three sub-adults 1 Ith, two 12th to 13th (S. C. Richardson et al.); adult, I8th May (S. C. Richardson).


(South-central Eurasia, north to the Netherlands, and Africa) This species was removed from the list of species considered by the Committee at the end of 1982.

Black Stork Ciconia nigra (26, 33, 0) 1985 Cumbria Eden Valley, juvenile, 10th to 21st September (A. Elliot, D. Wright et al), taken into care by RSPCA, 21st, ringed and released, Brampton, 25th October (G. Home, J. Miles), relocated South Walney, 25th to 1st November (T. Dean, Mrs J. Robinson-Dean et al.) (plate 266). South Walney, adult, 25th October (T. Dean, Mrs J. Robinson-Dean). 1985 Hampshire Plastow Green, 9th June (R. Dobbs). 1985 Suffolk Walberswick, 6th September (S.J. Bumwell,J. Tricker).

(Iberia, and Eurasia from France to China, also southern Africa) Since 1973, only 1981 and 1986 have been blank, but the 1985 total moves on to eight, the best year ever.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus (many, 26, 17) Cornwall Bude, adult, 7th to 8th October (G. P. Sutton). Hayle, two adults, three juveniles, 8th October (B. G. Brown, A. B. Rosier, B. Taylor et al). St Merryn, age uncertain, 9th to 17th October (S. M., Mrs A. D. & Miss H. M. Christophers, R. Hicks, R. Smaldon). Cornwall/Devon Upper Tamar Reservoirs, 10th to 20th October, two, 10th to 12th (G P. Sutton et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plate 12). Devon Wrafton Ponds, Braunton, 11th to at least 12th October (A.J. & Mrs P. Symons et al.); probably same, Fremington, 19th (A.J. Vickery et al.). Dorset Lodmoor, 19th to 20th September (D. M. Yelland & family et al.). Dumfries & Galloway River Ae Marsh, Loch Maben, 14th September (C. & D. Allen, P. Shimmings). Glamorgan, South Skew Bridge, Cardiff, date unknown between 23rd and 30th September to 13th October (A. & B. Andrews). Grampian Loch of Strathbeg, 27th September; probably same, 30th October to 23rd November (R.J.Jones, S. Welch et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 49-50, 267). Kent Stodmarsh and Stour Valley area, one of 1985 individuals (Brit. Birds 79: 532) 1st January to 16th April, 24th October to end of year; same, Sheppey, 4th June to 21st August (per T. Hodge). Dungeness, 6th October (N. C. Frampton).

267. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, Grampian, November 1986 (S. M. D. Alexander)

Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 525 Orkney Holm, Mainland, 19th September to 10th January 1987 (J. Bremner, K. E. Hague , E . J . Williams et al.)\ same, North Ronaldsay, 6th October (V. Gibson). Sussex, East Rye, 19th September (Dr B . J . Yates). Sussex, West Shoreham-by-Sea, 18th September (Dr J . A. Newnham). 1985 Norfolk Hickling Broad and Horsey Mere, 15th May (A. J . & G. C. Barrett, N. C. Moores et al.).

(Almost cosmopolitan, nearest breeding colonies in Balkans) The year 1977 was the previous best since at least 1958, with jus t four new individuals, so this was an unexpected influx of dramatic proportions. Even allowing for some possible overlap in the counting of individuals, the wide spread of records from Orkney to Cornwall, including a party of five, is remarkable, but the lack of records from the English east coast is hard to explain.

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianns (0, 5, 0) (North America) No new records in Britain or Ireland of the Nearctic

race C. c. columbianus, but the one at South Slob, Co. Wexford, on 31st December 1985 remained to late March 1986.

Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus (47, 70, 3) Essex Foulness, three, all first-winter, 12th October (G. Wright). 1985 Merseyside Southport , first-winter, 19th January (Brit. Birds 79: 532), again, 15th February (J. Cooper , S. P. Smethurst et al.).

(Northeast Europe and Siberia) Records have been annual since 1966, but not since 1976, when there were four, have more than three arrived in a single year. That the only three of the year should all arrive together is, therefore, all the more remarkable.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla (1, 33, 4) Individuals showing the characters of the North American and East Siberian race B. b. nigricans, colloquially known as 'Black Brant', were recorded as follows: Essex Kirby-le-Soken and Hamford Water, adult, since 8th December 1985 to at least 5th January (Brit. Birds 79: 532); probably same, Hadleigh Downs, at least 1st April (A.J . Kane et al.). Possibly returning individual, Foulness, 12th October (G. Wright) , River Crouch area, 27th December (G. Smith, D. Wood) , Canewdon, 29th to 30th (G. Wright) . Hampshire See West Sussex. Norfolk Cley area, at least one adult , since 3rd December 1985 to 13th March (P. Cawley, S . J . M. Gantlet t , P. L. Varney et al.). Overy Staithe, adult, 19th January (A. Bloomfield, D. Foster), possibly from Cley area. Cley area, adult , 26th December to 22nd February 1987 (S .J . M. Gantlet t , C. R., R. S. & Mrs B. Kightley et al.), possibly returning individual. Sussex, West Pagham Harbour , adult, 26th January to 27th February (A. R. Kitson, A. J . Pra te r et al.); p r e s u m e d same, Bosham Harbour , 31st January (A. J. Ho lman , R. S. Wols tenholme) . Possibly returning individual, Marker Point, Chichester Harbour , 2nd to 16th November, Thorney Island, 17th to 23rd, 24th December to at least 8th March 1987, also frequently visiting East Hayling, Hampshi re (C. B. & Mrs. M. A. Collins et al.).

1984 Essex Maldon and Tollesbury area, adult, 13th December to 15th January 1985 (D. Wood) ; see 1985 F'ssex below. 1985 Essex Canewdon, adult, 29th January (D. Wood) , presumed same as 1984 individual above. Possibly same as adult, freshly dead, St Osyth, 28th February (Brit. Birds 79: 532). 1985 Norfolk T h o r n h a m , adult , 19th November (M. Ausden, P. A . J . Morris, C. M. Poole). Cley area, two adults , 3rd to 31st December, at least one to 1986 as above (S.J. M. Gantlet t et al.); possibly returning individuals of winter 1984/85 (Brit. Birds 79: 534).


(Arctic North America and East Siberia) Also two in Ireland: adult at Sandymount, Co. Dublin, on 18th October; and adult at Tramore, Co. Waterford, 26th December to 3rd January 1987; and two late records: single adults at Tramore, Co. Waterford, 25th November 1978 to 3rd March 1979, and September 1980 to 4th April 1981. Another good year, but many of the records seem likely to relate to returning individuals which are being found owing to greater observer awareness.

Red-breasted Goose Bmnta ruficollis (15, 20, 3) Essex East Mersea, adult, 28th January to 18th February (I). C. L'rquhart et al.). Old Hall Marshes, 8th March (G.J. Mackenzie-Grieve), Tollesbury Rolls Farm, 9th (J. Sutherby), near Mundon Wash, 25th, 27th, possibly at North Fambridge since 17th January (per J. Miller); probably same as Kent individual first seen 25th Noverhber 1985, present to date uncertain, early January (liril. Birds 79: 534). Althorne, Canewdon and Creeksea area, adult, 27th December to 13th February 1987 (G. Smith, I). Wood, G. Wright et al). Norfolk Cley area, adult, 10th to 14th January (E. T. Myers el al.). Sussex, West Pagham Harbour, age uncertain, discontinuously, 30th January to 3rd March (G. M. & Mrs B.James et al.). 1985 Lincolnshire Previously published information was incomplete (Brit. Birds 79: 534); full details: Gibraltar Point, adult, 9th to 16th February (D. Jenkins, R. Lambert, A. G. Sims), Friskney, 16th to 17th (R. & K. Heath, P. Hyde). Leverton Marsh, another adult, 13th to 14th February (A. & D. Ball, S. Keightley), Wrangle Flats, 20th (J. Clarke); both individuals there, 23rd (P. Beaumont, D. Hursthouse), one of same, 27th (K. Wilson), one to at least 3rd March (P. Haywood). No first-winter individuals involved.

(West Siberia) Another good year: there were only two records between 1970 and 1982, since when they have been annual. The 1985 total of six is the record, and the three presumed new birds in 1986 represent the second-best year so far.

American Wigeon Anas americana (22, 129, 13) Berkshire Thatcham and Theale area, two first-winter cfO*, two 9 $ , since 28th November 1985 to at least 28th January (Brit. Birds 79: 534). Cheshire Elton Hall and Sandbach Flashes and Tetton Lane Marsh, age and sex uncertain, 7th October to 6th December (A. G. Goodwin, D. Norbury el al.). Cleveland Long Drag Pools, cf and $, 26th May; same, Cowpen Marsh, 28th (B. Beck, T. Francis, P. Harnish el al.). Hertfordshire Tring Reservoirs, first-winter cf, 12th October to at least 8th February 1987 (P. Trodd et al.). Highland Nigg Bay, cf, 14th December (S.J. Aspinall et al.). Scilly Tresco, first-winter Cf, 8th to at least 31st October (D. H. Hatton el al.). Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter cf, 21st September to 3rd October, trapped 21st, ringed as juvenile near Albert, New Brunswick, Canada, 13th August 1986 (R. Harbird, G.J. Mant, N.J. Riddiford et al.) {plate 280). 1981 Dyfed Ynys-hir, $ , 2nd November (R. I. Thorpe). 1984 Humberside East Park, Hull, cf, at least 17th March (P. W. Couland). 1985 Yorkshire, North Filey Brigg, cf, 31st March (P.J. Dunn), probably same as Cleveland individual (Brit. Birds 79: 534).

(North America) Also six in Ireland: first-winter male at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, 27th October to 15th November, joined by an adult male on 2nd November and a second adult male on 11th November, thereafter one adult male was present to at least 22nd February 1987; adult male at Rostellan, Co. Cork, 15th November to 13th March 1987; adult male at Ballintubrid, Co. Cork, 25th November to early March 1987; adult male at


Ballymacoda, Co. Cork, 27th December to 6th January 1987 (five males in all believed involved); and first-winter female bearing a Washington D.C. ring shot at Bannow Bay, Co. Wexford, 30th November. A good year. The ringing recoveries from Fair Isle and Co. Wexford recall the previous North American ringed birds: Sumburgh, Shetland, on 7th October 1966, Akeragh Lough, Co. Kerry, on 12th October 1968, and Tuam, Co. Galway, on 8th October 1977.

Teal Anas crecca (13, 227, 16) Drakes showing the characters of the North American race A. c. carolinensis were recorded as follows: Avon Chew Valley Lake, 28th October to 13th November (K. E. Vinicombe el al.). Cheshire Elton Hall Elash, 30th March to 19th April (R. Harrison, D. Norbury el al.). Cleveland Greatham Tank Farm, 19th April to 1st May (C. Sharp et al.). Cornwall Stithian's Reservoir, since 26th December 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 535) to 7th May (S. C. Hutchings); presumed same, 15th November to 1987 (S. C. Hutchings, R. Lane et al.). 1'orth Reservoir, Newquay, 8th March (J. Dustow). St John's Lake, first-winter, 19th October (A. H.J. Harrop). Dyfed Gann Estuary, 1st to 2nd March (K.J. S. Uevonald,J. B, Pearce, G. H. Rees et al.). Gloucestershire Cotswold Water Park, 16th April (M. V.Jackson). Highland Tain, Ross-shire, 6th December (S.J. Aspinall). Humberside Goxhill Haven, 23rd April (G. P. Catley). Lothian Tailend Moss, 11th March (A. J. Macfarlane). Norfolk Cley, 9th to 17th March (S.J. M. Gantlett, A. S. Hall, N, Moody et al.); probably same, 27th to 28th June (R. Abel, S, J. M. Gantlett et at.). Welney, 10th December (N. Bostock). Shetland Hillwell Loch, 16th February to 28th March (D. Coutts et al.). Western Isles Hirta, St Kilda, 2nd May (D. Green, J. Kinsley, D. Miller et al.). 1985 Dorset Brands Bay, Poole Harbour, 2nd February (M.J. Massey). 1985 Lancashire Martin Mere, 22nd December (P. I. Holt). 1985 Norfolk Wells, 24th November (G. K. Gordon, J. P. Hartley, A. Lewis et al.). 1985 Orkney Loch oflsbister, 8th January (Brit. Birds 79: 535), full dates 5th to 14th (per C.J. Booth).

(North America) Two in Ireland: single males at Ballymacoda, Co. Cork, on 5th January and 22nd November; also two late records: male at Killeenaran, Co. Galway, on 15th November 1985; and male at Ballycot-ton, Co. Cork, on 16th November 1985. The one at Bull Island, Dublin, on 19th November 1985 remained to 20th January 1986; and the one at Marino Point, Co. Cork, on 23rd November 1985 to 12th January 1986. Some typical records. Occurrences have been annual since at least 1958.

American Black Duck Anas rubripes (1, 13, 1) Humberside Broomfleet Ponds, Cf, 1st September (T, A. Ede). Lothian Tyninghame, $, first seen 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 536), 8th February to 27th April, again paired with cf Mallard A. platyrhynchos (A. Brown, P. R. Gordon, E. P. & M. R. Leven et al). Scilly Tresco, at least one hybrid remaining from 1985, present throughout year (per M.J. Rogers). 1985 Scilly Tresco, at least four hybrids present to at least April (Brit. Birds 78: 537); at least one to end of year (per M.J. Rogers).

(North America) From one to three have been recorded annually since 1976, the year in which the female Black Duck responsible for the above hybrids arrived on Tresco, but several of these have been long-staying individuals.


Blue-winged Teal Anas discors (19, 108, 9) Cornwall Near Sennen, two 9 5 or immatures, 26th September to mid October (D. S. Ftumm, H, P. K. Robinson el al.), Norfolk Welney, $ , 5th to 8th November (J. B, Kemp et al), Orkney Papa Stronsay, cf, 23rd June {E. R. Meek). North Ronaldsay, first-winter 0 \ 10th September to 12th October; first-winter J , 10th to 28th September (M. Gray, R.J. Safford, Dr K. F. Woodbridge et al.). Strathclyde Loch Riaghan, Tiree, 0* and $ , 26th May to at least 3rd June (G. & Mrs C. Carr). 1982 Lothian Newliston, C?, accidentally shot from flock of Teal .4. crecca, 29th September, mounted specimen retained by A.J. Macfariane (per A.J, Macfarlane).

(North America) An about average year. Also one in Ireland; female/ immature on Cape Clear Island, Co, Cork, 25th September to 14th October; and one late record: a pair of Lough Funshinagh, Co. Roscommon, on 22nd May 1984. Records h'ave been annual since 1966, Pairs have been recorded previously on a number of occasions.

Ring-necked Duck Aythya coUaris (1, 198, 3) Avon Chew Valley Lake, cf, 26th April to at least 10th August (K. E. Vinicombe et al), presumed returning individual of 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 536). Cornwall Drift Reservoir and neighbouring localities, C? and $ , since November 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 537), last recorded near Land's End, 15th April (H. P. K. Robinson). Near Sennen, Cf, 14th December, Drift Reservoir, 21st to 1987 (H. P. K. Robinson et al.). Hampshire See Surrey. Humberside Tophill Low Reservoir, O*, since 24th November 1985 to 23rd March (see 1985 Humberside below); presumed same, returning. Hornsea Mere, 1st to at least 4th October (B. Potter, J. C. Wardill et al). Northumberland Holywell Pond, cf, 29th April to 24th May, 15th June, 1st July; same, Arcot Pond, 4th and 22nd to 23rd June 0. E. Fergusson et al.), presumed returning individual of 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 537). Shetland Loch of Tingwall, O*, at least 7th June (P. D. Dean, M, I. Eldridge), presumed returning individual of 1984 and 1985, see below. Somerset Sutton Bingham Reservoir, first-winter Cs 4th January (D. J . Chown, M. A. Hallett, R. Newton et al); another first-winter cf, 16th April (P. G. Akers, K. Osborn). Surrey Ash Vale Gravel-pits, cf, since 23rd December 1985 (Bril. Birds 79: 537) to early April 0. M. Clark et al.); also recorded Fleet Pond, 17th May, Dogmersfield Lake, 19th, both in Hampshire (per J, M. Clark); presumed returning Hampshire individual of 1985, see below. Yorkshire, North Gallagher, near Settle, cf, 20th to 24th April (B. Shorrock), presumed same as 1985 Lancashire individual below. 1984 Shetland See 1985 Shetland below. 1985 Cheshire Woolston Eyes, cf, 25th June to 30th July (R. D. Riley et al), presumed returning individual of 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 538). ' 1985 Hampshire Blashford Gravel-pits, cf > 31st January (S, K, Wooiley), presumed same as Surrey and Hampshire individual in 1986 above. 1985 Humberside Tophill Low Reservoir, cf, 24th November to 23rd March 1986 (f. Barker, 1. Forsyth, T. Richardson et al), presumed returning individual last recorded 15th April 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 537). 1985 Lancashire Stock's Reservoir, cf, 17th to at least 26th February (Brit. Birds 79; 537); same, Foulbridge Lower Reservoir, Coine, 4th to 18th May (P. Booth, E, C. Davis et al), again at Stock's Reservoir, 24th November (A. A. Cooper et al.); also recorded in North Yorkshire in 1986 as above. 1985 Shetland Sandness, C?, at least 20th November 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 538), there or Loch of Norby to at least 13th March (per I. S. Robertson), Loch of Norby, 26th May (T. J, Barker), 30th and 5th June (I. D., R. C. & Mrs G. M. Broadbent et al), 7th July (Brit. Birds 79: 537); also in 1986, above.

(North America) Also a late record from Ireland: a female at Ballycotton, Co; Cork, on 10th December 1978. An extremely complicated


web of apparently returning and moving individuals seems to reveal just three individuals which have been presumed new arrivals in 1986. Records have been annual for the past ten years, with from six to 35 presumed new each year.

King Eider Somateria spectabilis (62, 116, 8) Cornwall Portscatho, J , 17th January to 16th March (S. M. Christophers, R. Lane, P. Rundle el al.). Fife Lucky Scalp, near Tayport, d", 8thJanuary to 9th March (R.J. Burness, N. Elkins el al.). Also seen in Tayside. Grampian Burghead, immature cf, 3rd February (J. M. Cawston, S. M. Dean). Ythan Estuary, cf, 24th May to 3rd June (S. M. D. Alexander, G. J. H. Forrest, T. W. Marshall) (Brit. Birds 79: plates 253-255; 80: plate 283). Highland Loch Fleet, cf, 11th January (W. G. Harvey^, 27th April (A. R. Mainwood); probably same, Embo, 21st February (A. R. Mainwood), 25th (Z. Bhatia); probably same, Lothbeg Point, 9th June (P. Tickner). Presumed returning individual, Loch Fleet, 24th September (J. Chester), 30th November (R. Proctor). Probably returning individual of 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 538). Orkney Shapinsay, Cf, 27th June (J. Berry). Shetland Sand Voe, cf, 25th May to 7th June (D. Coutts, D. Tipling) (Brit. Birds 79: plate 217; 80: plate 268). Sumburgh Head, first-year cf, 4th July to at least 7th September (M. Heubeck, I. S. Robertson et al.); another, 8th July to at least 10th September (D. Coutts el al.). Tayside Broughty Ferry, Dundee, cf, 8th February (K. Bushby, G. M. Cresswell, J. G. Steele), same as Fife individual.

(Circumpolar Arctic) Eight presumed new birds is the best since 1977. The Cornish female is the first for that county and only the sixth in England since 1915.

268. Male King Eider Somateria spectabilis and male Eider S. mollissima. Shetland, May 1986 (J. Datchens)

Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata (75, 184, 21) Clwyd Abergele, Cf, since 31st December 1985 to 1st January (Brit. Birds 79: 538). Fife Largo Bay, cf, 8th February (N. A. Smith); presumed same, 18th; two Cf Cf and $ , 19th


to at least 28th March (fig. 2); three cfcf, two J9> 9th May, including cf and $ previously seen in Lothian (see below) (G. M. Cresswell, D. E. Dickson, J. S. Nadin el al.); Cf, 21st November to at least 21st December (A. Coles, A. Davison et al.), probably a returning individual (fig. 3). Grampian Burghead, O", 5th to 23rd February (R. Proctor), probably same, 15th October to 1987 (S.J. Aspinall, V. Cozens et al.). Spey Bay, cf, 25th February, probably same, 13th December (S.J. Aspinall el al.). Lothian Gosford Bay, cf and J , 9th February to 5th April (G. Anderson, A. Brown, I. R. Hamilton el al.), later seen in Fife (see above). Orkney Orphir, a", 8th to 9th May (E.J. Williams et al.). Shetland Haroldswick, Unst, Cf, 1st October; Norwick, 2nd to 4th (M. & Mrs R. Sinclair et al.). Tayside I.unan Bay, two 0"cf, at least 14th September (R. H. Hogg, J. G. Steele et al.). Warwickshire Draycote Water, Cf, 26th October (E. Barnett, A. R. Dean el al.). Western Isles Sound of Taransay, South Harris, three 0"ti\ l l th October (G. F.J. Baker), 11th November (W. A.J. Cunningham). 1984 Fife St Andrews, d" and $ , 3rd to 9th March, 18th March, 1st April, d* also 4th (Brit. Birds 79: 538), $ also 4th (P. M. Potts et al). 1985 Cornwall Off Cot Valley, cf, 23rd March to 26th April (R. Butler, D. S. Flumm et al). 1985 Highland Loch Gairloch, Wester Ross, cf, 23rd May (J. A. & Mrs L. C. Davies).

Fig. 2. Male and female Surf Scoters Melanitta perspicillata, Fife, February 1986 (Graeme Cresswell)

(North America) Also eight in Ireland: two adult males and an immature male at Rosslare Bay, Co. Wexford, 16th to 31st March; adult male at Clogher Head, Co. Louth, l l th to 13th October; two females/ immatures at Laytown, Co. Meath, 29th November to 6th December; and adult male and adult female at Rossknowlagh, Co. Donegal, on 14th December; and three late records (of four birds): adult male at Murvagh,

Fig. 3. Male Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata, Fife, November 1986 (Tony Davison)


Co. Donegal, 29th January to 26th February 1984; two adult males at Murvagh, Co. Donegal, on 6th March 1985; and female at Ballinesker, Co. Wexford, on 25th March 1985. The Warwickshire record recalls the only-other English inland county record: an immature male at Hemingford Grey, Cambridgeshire, on 5th June 1983. The others are typical records, with the majority in Scotland as usual.

Black Kite Milvus migrans (5, 75, 13) Devon Soar Mill Gove, 29th August (N. Barlow, L. Doughty, P. Sanders et al). Dorset Stratton, 30th May (J. F. Ryan et al.). Greater London Hampton Hill, 30th April (P. A. Greening). Hampshire Ashley Walk, New Forest, 12th June (M. Rafter); seen to fly into Wiltshire. Hereford & Worcester Defford, near Pershore, 4th May (M. G. Kelsey); probably same, Hartlebury, 5th (I. R. Maehin). , Kent Uungeness, 26th April (J. M. Boatman, A. Burton, M.J. Puxley et al.), probably same as Sussex individual, 26th. Wingham, 30th April (D. S. H. Coates). Lyminge Forest, 11th June (M. E. Cooper). Northumberland Rock, 8th May (I. H. Armstrong). Scilly St Mary's, 31sl August (W. H. Wagstaff). Somerset Near Bruton, 18th May (A. T. Juniper et al). Surrey Haslemere, 18th May (Miss P. A. Kirkpatrick). Sussex, East Fairlight, Hastings, 26lh April (C. H. Dean), probably same as Kent and West Sussex individuals, 26th. Beachy Head, 29th April (D. C. & Mrs B. M. Mortlock). Sussex, West Pagham Harbour, 26th April (P. F. Burns, P. Raby et al.); see East Sussex above. Wiltshire See Hampshire above. 1984 Norfolk Loddon, 1st June (Brit. Birds 78: 540); probably same, Great Hockham, 1st (P. Gooden, P. Purchase, P. Stovold et al.). 1985 Gwynedd Dyfi Forest, 26th April (R. Q. Skeen), previously rejected (Brit. Birds 79; 585), now accepted alter review. See 1985 Powys below. 1985 Powys Lake Vyrnwy, 26th April (R. Petley-Jones, I. Soane), presumed same as Gwynedd individual.

(Most of Eurasia, Africa and Australia) The increase continues: the previous record was nine in 1983, and again it is noticeable that they are all untwitchable brief stayers.

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla (many, 14, 0) 1985 Norfolk Titchwell and Brancaster, 16th to 19th November (S.J. M. Gantlett, J. B. Kemp et al.), presumed same as Suffolk individual (Brit. Birds 79: 539).

(Southwest Greenland, Iceland and Eurasia)

Red-footed Falcon Falco verspertinus (100, 282, 8) Cumbria Shap Wells, first-summer cf, 30thJune (C.J. McCarly et al.). Dorset Portland, cf, 9th May (D. & Mrs M. M. Walbridge). Coward's Marsh, Christchurch, Cf, 24th May (A. Hayden, L. Pike). Gwynedd South Slack, Anglesey, first-summer cf, 21st June (P. T. Bell, P. Fisher et al.). Humberside Goxhill Haven, first-summer cf, 19th May (G. P. Catley). Norfolk Titchwell, first-summer cf, 26th June (S. Callaghan, H. Harrop, A. Matthews et al.). Winterton, $ , 10th to 13thjuly (A. D. Boote, S.J. M. Gantlett, P.J. Heath etal.). Near King's Lynn, first-summer cf, 5th September (D. Morton). 1982 Hampshire New Forest, $>, 31st May (D. & P. M. Harris, D. Nurney et al.). 1985 Derbyshire Alton and Ashover Fabric, 9 or immature, 6th to 11th September; previously accepted (Brit. Brirds 79: 541), now considered not acceptable after review. 1985 Dorset Durlston, J , 18th May (R.J. H. Murray).

(East Europe and south from Siberia) An about average showing; records have been annual since at least 1958.


Gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus (many, 82, 4) Cornwall Penlee Point, Cawsand, adult , 16th October (R. W. Gould) . Devon Berry Head, second-year, 31st March to 9th April (N. Ward et al.) (Brit. Birds 79: plate 178). Shetland Firth Voe, 14th November (J. R. & P. Dale). 1983 Humbers ide Easington and Spurn area, age uncertain, 17th, 24th to 26th September (G. Dobbs, D. Findley, K. Rotherham et at.), probably since 15th; same, Kilnsea, 22nd, and

Kilnsea/Easington area to at least mid October (per J . E. Dale).

(Circumpolar Arctic) Also one in Ireland: a first-winter at North Slob, Co. Wexford, 1st to 3rd April (Brit. Birds 79: plates 175-176; 80: plate 281). The finder of the beautiful white-phase bird which stayed at Berry Head for ten days earned the undying gratitude of hundreds of observers (and also of the owner of the nearby cafe).

Crane Grus grus (many, 1,171, 24) Cleveland Boulby Cliffs, 4th May (I. Boustead, P. Forster, N . Jackson) . Clwyd Shotwick and Shotton area, 17th to 28th August (E.J . Abraham, Dr P. Wheeler et at.). Devon Nor tham Burrows, 24th December to 1987 (M. Glover, R. M. R . J a m e s et al.). Dyfed Gann Estuary, 3rd October (J. & Mrs B. Pearce, A. & J . Pool). Essex Paglesham Eastend, 6th October (S. Arlow). Two Tree Island, 15th October (D. Tu t t et al.). Hampshire Titchfield Haven, 12th October (R. K. Levett et al.); same, Farlington Marshes and Hayling Island, also 12th (P. M. Potts, G. C. Stephenson et al.). Kent Dungeness, 7th to 8th October (S. McMinn et al.). Lothian Biel Grange, two, 16th to 19th April (A.J . Clunas, A. & J . Wilson). Norfolk Cley, two, 6th May (R. H. Aberdein, E. T. Myers et al.); adult and immature , 6th to 7th August (B .C . Forrester et al.). Lakenheath Washes , 5th September, also flew over Suffolk boundary (S. T. Buckton). Welney, first-winter, 2nd to at least 5th November (J. B. K e m p et al.). East coast area, at least five at start of year; jo ined by juvenile mid summer; six to December (per G. E. Dunmore) . Orkney South Ronaldsay, 23rd April to 4th J u n e (Mrs R. McCutcheon, Mrs Roberts) . Evie, Mainland, 27th May (Dr M. Cuthber t , J . Goddin et al.); p resumed same, Sanday, 28th to 2nd J u n e (W. Carstairs, T. Muir, R. Thorne et al.) (plates 269 & 270). Shetland Sandwick, 7th May (D. Cout ts et al.). Shropshire Allscott, 13th to 14th August (W. Hotchkiss, P. L. Swales et al.). Somerset Bridgwater, 22nd April (J. W. Chidgey). Tayside Glen Garry, 29th J u n e (C. Craig, C. Holman, G. Hughes) . 1983 Highland Lothbeg, Sutherland, 14th May (E. W. E. Maughan et al). 1984 Hampshire Titchfield Haven, 27th April (B. S. Duffin, R. K. Levett, D. Parsons). 1984 Humberside Barmston, immature , 24th November (G. Brown, S. T. Holloway, J . Lester). 1984 Sussex, East Near St Leonard 's , two, 10th April (S. C. Richardson); first-summer, 15th to 24th May (K. M . J o h n s t o n ) . 1985 Cambridgeshire Ouse Washes, two, 20th April; first-year, 27th to 1st May (Brit. Birds 79: 542); first two included the latter (per R. I. Allison). 1985 Dumfries & Galloway Bankend, at least 8th October (D. E. Dickson), reportedly present end August to 30th December (per R. H. Hogg). 1985 Humberside Tophill Low Reservoir, 28th to 30th April (I. Forsyth, D. E. Murray, P. M. Scanlan et al). Kilnsea, two, 22nd May (P..I. Holt) . 1985 Lancashire Carleton, two, 5th May (Brit. Birds 79: 542), also Marton Mere, 5th (J. Graham, S. M. Meredi th) . 1985 Norfolk Holme, 15th May (V. Eve et al.). 1985 Tyne & Wear Marsden, 6th May (A. C. Gibbins et al.), not same as Filey, North Yorkshire, individual below. 1985 Yorkshire, North Cayton Carrs, first-summer, 24th April (S. Cochrane et al.). Filey, 6th May ( H . J . Whitehead) , not same as Tyne & Wear individual above.


269 & 270. Crane Grus grus, Orkney, May 1986 (Roderick Thome)

(North and Central Eurasia, locally south to Turkey) Also one in Ireland: an adult at New Quay, near Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, 5th March to 3rd April. The one at Newinn, Tipperary, on 4th December 1985 remained to 17th February 1986. The small group in East Norfolk has been more or less resident since 1979, and remained into 1987.

Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis (1, 1,0) (North America, Cuba and Northeast Siberia) None in Britain or

Ireland, but it should be mentioned here that the one on Fair Isle from 26th to 27th April 1981 (Brit. Birds 76: 105-109) could not have been the 14th October 1980 Akrabergi, Faroe Islands, bird, as previously suggested, since that individual was sadly found dead (Bloch & Sorensen 1984, Yvirlit yvir Foray a Fuglar).

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus (98, 86, 5) Borders St Abb's Head, 26th May (P. R. Gordon, K.J. Rideout, C. K. Robeson). Cleveland Coatham Marsh, 17th May (G. Boyce, S. Reeve et al.). Cornwall Millbrook, 13th to 23rd June (B. Chugg, J. A. d'E. Miller et at.). Lincolnshire Tetney, 19th June (T. Baker). Northumberland Brock Mill, near Beal, 20th May (R. Norman). Sussex, East Beachy Head, 2nd May (R. K. Haggar et al.). 1984 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, two, 13th May (K. M.Johnston), presumed same as Boreham Street individuals, 12th to 18th (Brit. Birds 78: 543). 1985 Dorset Radipole, 27th April to 1st May (D. Elliot, M.J. Palmer et al).


(Southern Eurasia, Africa and Australia) Records have been annual since 1978. These are typical, but the one in Borders is only the fourth in Scotland this century. The N o r t h u m b e r l a n d individual mus t have presented a pathetic sight: it was apparently one-legged. It must have had great difficulty in feeding, so it is hardly surprising that it was not seen again.

Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola (31, 38, 2) Cornwall Camel Estuary, 16th to 17th October (P. G. Akers et al.) (fig. 4). Kent Dungeness, 18th to 25th June (I). Elliot, S. McMinn el al.).

(South Europe, Southwest Asia and Africa) The Dungeness record is typical in both location and date, but the one in Cornwall in October is the second latest ever (the latest being one' in Kent from 4th November 1977).

Black-winged Pratincole Glareola nordmanni (5, 16, 1) Leicestershire Eye Brook Reservoir, 20th to 21st November (G. Blackburn, K. Moulton et al.).

(West Asia) All of the previous positively identified Black-winged Pratincoles have been between July and October, making this by far the latest ever. Most Collared Pratincoles have been in spring, but there is one November record, as mentioned above.

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus (9, 34, 0) 1984 Strathclyde Colonsay, 7th to 8th January (D. C. Jardine, R. Pitts).

(North America, West Indies, Peru to Chile) Perhaps surprisingly, winter records are not unusual. From one to five were recorded annually from 1978 to 1985.

American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica (6, 108, 3) Lincolnshire Tetney, adult, 27th to at least 29th July (T. Baker, R. S. Slack, S. M. Whitehouse et al.).

(Arctic North America and extreme Northeast Asia) Also two in Ireland: adult at Belmullet, Co. Mayo, on 29th September; and juvenile at Rosscarbery, Co. Cork, 13th October to mid November. Records have been annual since 1966 and this is the poorest showing since 1974.

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva (0, 4, 0)

(North and Northeast Asia) None has yet been accepted for Britain or Ireland in 1986, but in view of the new specific status of this bird it may be helpful to list the four previous accepted records: adult, Aberlady Bay, Lothian, 10th to 16th July 1976; adult again at Aberlady Bay on 9th July 1977 (and perhaps the same returning individual); Bempton Cliffs, Humberside, 1st September 1975; and Fraisthorpe, Humberside, 26th January to 2nd February 1985.

American or Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica/P. fulva (6, 113, 3) 1985 Kent Elmley, adult, 6th July (R. I. Thorpe).

A record appears under this heading for the first time as the former two


Fig. 4. Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola, Cornwall, October 1986 (P. G. Akers)

races of'Lesser Golden Plover' have now been 'split' by the BOU Records Committee. The totals include those specifically identified.

Sociable Plover Chettusia gregaria (5, 23, 1) Hampshire Titchfield Haven and Lee-on-Solent Airfield, juvenile, 17th October to at least 8th November (B. S. Duffin, R.J. Fairbank et al). Sussex, West Steyning area, South Downs, juvenile moulting to first-winter, 31st October to at least 30th December 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 545), relocated Sompting area, 3rd January only (per R.J. Fairbank).


(Southeast Russia and West-central Asia) There have now been records three years running, after a gap of three years. They have been seen in all months except June, but October is the peak time for arrivals.

Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla (2, 40, 7) Scilly St Mary's, juvenile, 30th September to 24th October; same, St Agnes, 13th (P.J. Grant et al.)(Brit. Birds 80: plates 4-5, 284); another juvenile, St Mary's, 3rd to 5th October (P.J. Grant, H. P. K. Robinson et al). Suffolk Minsmere, adult, 6th to 15th August (J. H. Grant, I. P. Robinson, D.J. Weaver et al.). 1978 Cornwall Hayle, juvenile, 17th September (A. R. Pay), possibly same as that on date uncertain between 11th and 16th October (Brit. Birds 78: 545). 1982 Cheshire Frodsham (Weaver Bend), first-winter, 3rd to 4th October, previously rejected (Brit. Birds 78: 588), now accepted after review (A. Broome, S. Hind, A. R. Pay).

(North America) Also four in Ireland: two adults at The Cull, Co. Wexford, 31st August to 8th September; juvenile at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, on 7th September; and juvenile at Swords, Co. Dublin, 30th September to 4th October. Records have been annual since 1980.

Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla (6, 21, 1) Cornwall Portscatho, first-winter moulting to first-summer, 9th February to 20th April (M. A. Golley, P. D. Kemp, A. I. Prophet et al.) (Brit. Birds 79: plates 145-146; 80: plates 67, 271 & 285).

(North America). The first record of over-wintering. For many observers, this was their first 'complete' Least Sandpiper: the previously mass-twitched individual at Dungeness, Kent, in August 1984 {Brit. Birds 78: 546) sadly having badly crippled legs and missing toes.

271. First-winter Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla moulting to first-summer, Cornwall, April 1986 (Richard G. Smith)

White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fusckolUs (24, 262, 7) Cleveland South Gare and Seaton Snook, adult, 7th to 17th August (M. R. K. Askew et al.). Gloucestershire Slimbridge, adult, 21st to 22nd August (N. R. Smart, B. Stewart et al.). Hampshire Eling Great Marsh, juvenile, 29th September (R. W. Russell).

Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 537 Kent Worth Marshes, 9th April (E.J. Maguire, A. Sapsford). Norfolk Snettisham, adult, 14th July to 14th August (J. E. Corlett, A. Livingstone et al.). 1970 Cheshire Frodsham, juvenile, 17th October to 3rd November (D. L. Clugston, E.Jones et al). 1984 Cheshire Frodsham, adult, 2nd July to 23rd August and 2nd to 3rd September (Brit. Birds 79: 545), now considered as two individuals: adult, 2nd to 6th July; another, 23rd August to 15th September (M. S. Garner et al.). Thelwall, adult, 31st July (R. Taylor), possibly same as second Frodsham individual. 1984 Northumberland Hauxley, adult, 21st July (J. R. Irving, W. T. Logan, E. Slack et al.). 1985 Humberside Beacon Lane Lagoon, Spurn, adult, 7th to 11th August (Brit. Birds 79: 545), again 12th (A. Lewis et al). Blacktoft, adult or first-summer, 29th August to 14th September (J. M. Bayldon, D. Page et al.). 1985 Norfolk Cley, adult, 17th August to 1st September (L. G. R. Evans, R. G. Millington, D.J. Odellrfa/.).

(North America) Also two in Ireland: adult at Lady's Island Lake, Co. Wexford, 25th to 27th September; and adult a't Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow, on 27th September. Some typical late-summer and au tumn records, but the one in Kent in April is only the third in spring.

Baird's Sandpiper Calidris bairdii (5, 117, 2) Cleveland Long Drag Pools and South Gare, juvenile, 29th September to 13th October (M. A. Blick, E. G. Clark et al). Hampshire Warsash, juvenile, 7th October (D. A. Christie). 1985 Cheshire Weaver Bend, Frodsham, juvenile, 6th to 15th September (Brit. Birds 79: 546), also 16th (A. Lewis et al).

(North America and Northeast Siberia) Records have been annual since 1969, and an average of about seven have been seen per annum during the past ten years, with almost all between mid August and October.

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata (5, 14, 0) (Northeast Siberia) None in Britain or Ireland, but the one at

Ballycotton, Co. Cork, on 30th August 1973 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee.

Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus (23, 79, 5) Cleveland Long Drag Pools, 13th June (T. Francis, J. Grieveson et al.). Dorset Ferrybridge, 8th May (J. F. Ryan). Kent Elmley, 4th to 6th July (P. & R. Puxley et al). Lancashire Fleetwood, 3rd to 8th June (I. Gardner et al.). Norfolk Cley and Salthouse, 29th June to 2nd July (J. T. Corcoran, S.J. M. Gantlett, R.J. Rowe et al.). 1985 Humberside Hull, at least 25th May (D.J. Odell et al). 1985 Lancashire Banks Marsh, 12th to 13th June (C.J. McCarty et a/.)(fig. 5). 1985 Norfolk Cley, 4thJuly (S.J. M. Gantlett). 1985 Suffolk Walberswick, 24th May (D. R. Moore, C. S. Waller).

(North Eurasia) Another fairly good year, but 1984 is the record, with 12. The Committee would be grateful for reports on the second individual supposedly at Hull in late May 1985.

Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus (9, 101, 3) Cornwall Camel Estuary, adult, 9th August to 1987 (D.J. Chown et al). Hampshire Curbridge, age not determined, 10th March to 16th April (W. Boras, T. D. Codlin, D.J. Unsworth et al). Lincolnshire Holbeach St Mark's, adult, 19th July to 14th August (P. Clement et al.).


1985 Essex Langenhoe Point, adult, 30th September (R. P. Hull). 1985 Suffolk Alton Water, first-winter, 20th October to at least 14th December (J. M. Cawston, F. E. Elliston et a/.)(plates 272 & 273). Minsmere, juvenile moulting to first-winter, 30th October (T. D. Charlton et al.). 1985 Tayside Port Allen, adult, 13th to 17th August (E.J. Maguire et al.).

(North America and Northeast Siberia) Also two late records from Ireland: at Belclare Turlough, Co. Galway, 26th to 30th September 1985; and Blennerville, Co. Kerry, 26th November 1985 to 31st March 1986. Records have been annual since 1973, with an average of about seven per year during the past ten years.

Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus/L. scolopaceus (31, 208, 3) 1983 Devon Powderham Park, 9th to 13th October (D. M. Norman et al.). 1985 Devon Braunton area, 1st to at least 24th November (J. P. Turner et al.).

272 & 273. Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus, Suffolk, November 1985 (Peter Gasson)


(North America and Northeast Siberia) One late record from Ireland: at Lough Derravarragh, Co. Westmeath, 2nd to 4th May 1984. Pre-1958 records of Short-billed Dowitcher are still under review by the BOU Records Committee {Brit. Birds 74: 471).

Fig. 5. Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus (compared with Little Stint Calidris minuta and Dunlin C. alpina), Lancashire,June 1985 (C.J. McCarty)


Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda (15, 23, 1) Sciily St Mary's, 22nd October to at least 17th November (J. G. Hole et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 8-10).

(North America) Four of the last six, since 1982, have appeared in Sciily between 15th and 23rd October.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes (35, 153, 2) Hampshire Farlington Marshes, adult, 17th to 27th August, trapped 25th (T. Jennings, R. N. Macklin, R. W. White et al.). Yorkshire, North Filey, adult, 26th July (P. M, Scanlan et al.). 1985 Sussex, West Sidlesham Ferry, 27th April {J. E. Bushell, P. D. White).

(North America) The one at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, on 6th November 1985 remained to January 1986. Another poor year; there were only three in 1985 but the average for the previous ten years was about seven per year,

Terek Sandpiper Xernts cinereus (3, 21, 4) Avon Royal Portbury Dock, 19th September (C.J, Stone, K. E. Vinicombe); presumed same, Severn Beach, 20th (N. T. Lacy, B. Lancastle). Essex Colne Point, 20th September (Dr S. Cox, R. Matthews et al), Hampshire Oxey Marsh, Lymington, 10th June (D.J. Sussex). Northumberland Hauxley, 29th June to 1st July (J. E. Fergusson et al).

(Northeast Europe and Siberia) After the blank year of 1985, four in a year is a new peak. Most records have been in May to July, and these in Avon and Essex are only the second and third in September.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia (6, 72, 5) Hampshire Titchfield Haven, age yet to be decided, 4th October to 12th January 1987, trapped 25th November (B. S. Duffin, D. Powell, J. M. Walters et al.). (Bril. Birds 80: plate 7). Lancashire Foulridge (Burwain's) Reservoir, Colne, adult, 6th to 10th August (M.J. Naylor et al). Lower Rivington Reservoir, adult, 22nd November to 11th January 1987 (E. Hunter et al). Norfolk Cley, 11th to 13thJune (J. T. Corcoran, S.J. M. Gantlett et al). Shetland Fair Isle, 20th May (R. G. Adam, N. J. Riddiford, A. Whittaker et al). 1985 Norfolk Holme, juvenile or first-winter, 7th October (V. Eve et al).

(North America) An about average showing. Over-wintering records are not now unusual.

Grey-tailed Tattler Hetetoscelus brexipes (0, 1, 0) 1981 Dyfed/Gwynedd Dyfi Estuary, 13th October to 17th November (P. E. Davis, A. D. Fox, R. I. Thorpe et al.).

(North and Northeast Siberia) The first record for Britain and Ireland, and new to the Western Palearctic. Acceptance has been delayed because of the identification problems associated with separating this species from Wandering Tattler H. incomes. Full details will be published in due course.

Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor (1, 190, 1) 1985 Cornwall Camel Estuary, probably first-winter, 31st October (Dr A. Harris, J A. d'E. Miller). 1985 Highland Inverness, first-winter, 3rd to 4th September (S.J. Aspinall, C. H. Crooke, J. Mackenzie et al).


1985 Lincolnshire Covenham Reservoir, 19th to 21st August (Brit. Birds 79: 551), also 22nd (per G. P. Cat ley). 1985 Norfolk Cley, 14th to 17th August (L. G. R. Evans, M. Fiszer, P. G. H. Wolstenholme el al.).

(North America) One in Ireland: at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, 11th to 12th October. The first blank year in Britain since 1969; about seven per year has been the average since then. Twelve species of American waders (including Pectoral Calidris melanotos and Buff-breasted Sandpipers Tryngites subruficollis) were recorded in 1986, a poor year when compared with the 16 in 1985.

Laughing Gull Lams atricilla (2, 43, 3) Kent Dungeness, adult, 8th August (B. O'Dowd et at). Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 26th October (T. D. Codlin, P. M. Potts). Strathclyde Stevenston Point, Ayrshire, adult, 20th November (Mr & Mrs J. L. Burton). Tyne & Wear South Shields, adult, first recorded 1984 as first-winter (Brit. Birds 79: 552), discontinuously many dates 1st January to at least 30th April and 4th August to at least end of February 1987 (J. Strowger et al.); also Shibdon Pond, 29th November (T. Oliphant), 13th December (K. Bowey) (Brit. Birds 79: plate 119). 1974 Essex Holiwell Point, Burnham-on-Crouch, 5th May (Brit. Birds 68: 320), was adult. 1975 Northumberland Low Hauxley, two immatures, 30th August (Brit. Birds 70: 447), were juveniles. 1984 Tyne & Wear Blaydon, North Shields and Newcastle General Hospital, first-winter (Brit. Birds 79: 552), also South Shields, 29th February (J. Strowger), 1st, 5th and 9th March (G. K. Gordon, T. I. Mills, J. Strowger); as first-summer, 13th July (G. K. Gordon); as second-winter, 21st December (G. K. Gordon). 1985 Cheshire Latchford Locks, Warrington, second-winter, 21st November (S. W. Kennedy); presumed same, Woolston Eyes, 30th (D. S. Bowman, B. Martin). 1985 Tyne 8c Wear Newcastle General Hospital area and other localities, second-winter (Bril. Birds 79: 552), also South Shields, various dates, 12th February to 17th March, various dates 21st December to at least 17th January 1986 (G. K. Gordon, T. I. Mills, J. Strowger a at). 1985 West Midlands Edgbaslon Reservoir, first-year, 15th to 19th January (P. V. Irving el al).

(North America) Three new birds has been the average for the past ten years. The long stay of the Newcastle individual is quite remarkable: for local students of gull plumages, it has now exhibited every plumage stage since its arrival as a first-winter bird.

Bonaparte's Gull Larus Philadelphia (11, 37, 6) Cornwall Drift Reservoir and Newlyri, first-winter, 25th January to 15th March (P. A. Maker, H. P. K. Robinson et al.); adult, 2nd November to 8th March 1987 (H. P. K. Robinson ei at). Glamorgan, Mid North Cornelly, Kenfig Pool, Sker Point area, first-summer, 14th to 17th March (N. & Mrs C. Lavers, S.J. Moon et al). Later seen in South Glamorgan, see below. Glamorgan, South Tremorfa Park and Rhymney River area, first-summer, 21st March, 8th April to 29th May (R. G. Hogarth, M. C. Powell et al.)(Brit. Birds 79: plate 177), same as Mid Glamorgan individual. Hampshire Gilkicker Point, first-summer, 21st March (J. Lawson, R.J, Wilkinson). Highland Fort William, first-summer, 30th May (A.J. L. Smith et al). 1967 Cornwall Newlyn, 23rd to 25th October (Brit. Birds 61: 344), was adult, 1967 Norfolk Bacton Gap, Mundesley, 2nd September (Brit. Birds 61: 344), was apparently adult retaining some first-summer features, 1969 Yorkshire (now North Yorkshire) Filey, 20thJune (Brit. Birds 68: 333), was immature.


(North America) Also one in Ireland: an adult at Wexford town, Co. Wexford, from 24th March to 18th April, Records have been annual since 1979, but six in a year is a new record; the previous best was four in both 1982 and 1983. Seven of the 15 British records since 1980 have been in West Cornwall.

Ring-billed Gull Lams delawarensis (0, 449, 52) Avon Chew Valley Lake, adult, 26th January (R. Higgins); second-year, from 8th March (A. D. Whatley etal); another second-year from 1st April (A. H. Daviese/a/.); further second-year from 10th (the late L. A. 'Fucker, K. E. Vinicombe et al); all three second-year individuals 10th April, two 11th; adult, 19th (A. H. Davies, T. H. Smith). Cornwall Copperhouse Creek, Hayle, second-winter, since 16th October 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 553), to 21st March, returned as adult, 23rd December to 1987 (L. P. Williams et al); first-winter, 13th November (L. P. Williams); another first-Hvinter, 24th November to 1987 (L. P. Williams el al). Drift Reservoir, second-winter, 12th to at least 15th February (D. Walker et al). Helston Park Lake, second-winter, 11th February to 2nd March (A. R. Pay el al). Padstow, second-winter, 10th April (R. Smaldon); first-winter, 27th November, 11th to 13th December (P. G. Akers); adult, 28th November, 3rd December (P. G. Akers, D.J. Chown). Par Beach, first-winter moulting to first-summer, 15th May (S. M. Christophers). Cumbria South Walney, adult, 31st January (T. Dean). Devon West Hoe, Plymouth, second-winter, 2nd January (S.J. Cox, A. H.J. Harrop), same, Plymouth Barbican, 23rd to 27th February (A. H.J. Harrop), same as Millbrook, Cornwall, individual, 27th December 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 553). Plym Estuary, first-winter, 21st February (M. D. Rayment). Dorset Abbotsbury, adult, 14th January (J. F. Ryan). West Bexington, first-summer, 17th March (P. G. Akers, D.J. Chown, D. Osborn); second-winter, 4th April (D.J. Chown et al.), Dorchester, adult, 29th December (P. M. Harris et al.). Dumfries & Galloway Wigtown Bay, adult, 11th February (P. N. Collin). Dyfed Burry Port, Carmarthenshire, adult, 20th February (C. Jones). Gann Estuary, Pembrokeshire, second-year, 27th March to 5th April; adult, 31st March (G. H. Rees el al.), Essex Leigh-on-Sea, second-winter, discontinuously 20th February to 29th March (P. M. Griggs et al), same, Southend Pier, 6th and 12th March (P. Hare et al.), presumed returning individual of 13th to at least 17th August 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 553; plate 275). Glamorgan, South Roath Park Lake, Cardiff, adult, since 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 553) to 4th January, again, 31st January to 7th March (K. R. Lloyd, N. Odin, M. C. Powell et al.), presumed same, 20th November to at least 22nd February 1987 (P. Bristow et al); another adult, 21st February to 2nd March (P. Bristow, P. G. Lansdown, M. C. Powell et al.). Llanishen Reservoir, second-winter, 21st February (P. Bristow et al.), same, Roath Park Lake, 23rd to 7th March (P. Bristow, M. C Powell et al.). Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, second-winter, 9th and 15th February (M. C. Powell, W. M. Strong et al.). Hampshire Sinah Gravel-pits, Hayling Island, second-summer, 28th to 30th March (T. D. Codlin,J. M. Walters). Hereford & Worcester Throckmorton, Worcestershire, adult, 2nd to at least 5th March (P. F. Stewart el al.). Kent Sandwich Bay, first-winter, 24th April to 2nd May (D. S. H. Coates, N. Odin, M. H. Sykes et al,). Lancashire Fleetwood tip, adult, 3rd January (L. G. Blacow, A.J. HinchclifFe). Martin Mere, second-summer moulting to adult, 5th to 9th, 30th August, 23rd September (M. I. Eldridge, C. M. Poole et al.), also at Marshside, Merseyside, see below. Merseyside Red Rocks, first-winter, 26th January (A, M. Stoddart, D. J. Tunnicliffe). Marshside, second-summer moulting to adult, 13th August (P. I Holt), same as Martin Mere, Lancashire, individual. Seaforth, first-summer, 10th May (P. G. Kinsella, S. Young et al); another first-summer, 21st to 27th June (P. G. Kinsella et al); adult, 28th November to at least 6th December (C. Kehoe, D. Messenger, S. Young et al.); another adult, 6th (M. S, Garner, C. Kehoe, S. Young et al); second-winter, 6th (M. S. Garner, S. Young et al). Somerset Sutton Bingham Reservoir, adult, 20th March (D.J. Chown). Strathclyde Doonfoot, Ayr, adult, 14th to 15th February (B. C. Forrester, R. H. Hogg).


Sussex, East Crumbles , Eastbourne, second-winter, since 15th December 1985 (Brit. Birch 79: 553), 26th January , 8th February (D. & J . F. Cooper) . Tyne & Wear Newcastle General Hospital , second-winter, 12th February to 2nd March (R. A . J . Forsyth, R . J o h n s o n et at.) {Brit. Birds 79: plates 162-163). Western Isles Castlebay, Barra, adult, 24th February ( T . J . Dix). 1984 Cornwall Swan Pool, Falmouth, first-winter, 18th February and 4th March (Brit. Birds 78: 555), again 19th ( D . J . Chown) . 1984 Cumbria Ramsdale , adult , 7th December (Brit. Birds 79: 553), locality was Rampside , near Barrow-in-Furness. 1984 Dorset Radipole, first-winter, 4th December 1983 to January 1984 (Brit. Birds 77: 530), last recorded mid Ju ly (per M. Cade) . 1985 Cornwall Hayle, second-winter, since at least 16th October (Brit. Birds 79: 553), to 21st March 1986 (L. P. Williams et at.). Par Beach, first-winter, since 8th December 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 555) to at least 3rd March (per R. I. Allison, S. M. Christophers) . Mount ' s Bay, first-winter, 2nd November (M. C. Buckland, I. Lycett). Millbrook Lake, second-winter, 23rd November (A. Bailey, A. F. Mears , A . J . Pearce); possibly same individual, 27th December (Brit. Birds 79: 553), also in Devon in 1986, see above. 1985 Devon Axmouth , second-winter, 2 n d j a n u a r y (J. C. Nicholls). Beesands Ley, second-winter, 11th February (J. C. Nicholls). 1985 Essex Southend-on-Sea, first-winter, 6th December (K. Osborn) ; presumed same, Hanningfield Reservoir, 27th (G. R. Ekins). 1985 Glamorgan, South Roath Park Lake, Cardiff, adult , 18th to 27th December (Brit. Birds 79: 553) to 4th Janua ry 1986 and subsequently (see above), presumed returning individual of 12th to 25th February 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 555). 1985 Lothian Musselburgh, first-winter, 23rd February (A. Brown, P. R. Gordon) , addit ional to that already published (Brit. Birds 79: 553). 1985 Somerset Sut ton Bingham Reservoir, adult , 13th January (M. A. Ffallett, D. Helliar, B . J . Widden) . 1985 Sussex, East Crumbles , Eastbourne, second-winter, 15th to 25th December (Brit. Birds 79: 553), also in 1986 above. 1985 Yorkshire, West Eccup Reservoir, Leeds, adult , 24th February (R. C. Hart , S. P. Singleton et al). 1985 Hampshire Paulsgrove, adult , 4th April ( R . J . Wilkinson).

(North America) Also 14 in Ireland: adult at Belfast Harbour Estate on 30th November; three adults at Whitehouse, Belfast Lough, Co. Antrim (included adult of 30th November), on 26th December (these stayed into 1987); second-year at Lennymore Bay, Lough Neagh, Co. Antrim, on 22nd April; second-winter at the Lough, Co. Cork, on 29th December; second-winter at Bann Estuary, Co. Deny , on 3rd January; adult near Groomsport, Co. Down, on 30th October; second-winter at Galway Harbour, Co. Galway, on 16th November; two adults at Blennerville, Co. Kerry, 29th to 31st March; first-winter at Blennerville, Co. Kerry, on 31st December; second-winter at Belmullet, Co. Mayo, on 5th October; second-winter at Wexford town, Co. Wexford, 30th January to 12th April. A first-winter, second-winter and adult at the Lough, Co. Cork, since 1985 (various dates) remained to at least late February. At Limerick City, two adults remained to 8th February and 8th April respectively, and a second-winter to 27th March, all considered to be birds present in 1985. Two adults present in Sligo Harbour since 1985 (one since November) were still present on 2nd March 1986. At Wexford town, a second-winter present since 14th December 1985 remained to at least 12th April 1986. A number of records from Dorset are also still to come. This species will be dropped from the list of species considered by the Rarities Committee at the end of 1987 {Brit. Birds 80: 422). Little did Rob Hume know what he


was starting when he found the first one at Blackpill, West Glamorgan, on 14th March 1973! There are still very few records from the East Coast. The rejection rate quoted in last year's species comment (Brit. Birds 79: 555) was based on interim statistics and was therefore incorrect. In fact, in that record year, 100 were accepted and 25 were rejected. A rejection rate of 20% was still extremely high, however, and shows the caution which needs to be exercised when identifying especially immatures of this difficult species.

Iceland Gull Lams glaucoides (0, 6, 1) An individual showing the characters of the North American race L. g. kumlkni, was recorded as follows: Grampian Banff Bay and Harbour, adult, I5th to'20th March (G. M. Cresswell, C. McGuigan, J. G. Steele et al.); same, 25th to 26th December (plate 274); presumed returning individual of 17th March 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 555).

(Baffin Island and Northwest Ungava Peninsula, Canada) Also one in Ireland: a sub-adult (at least third-year) at Wexford town on 27th January; and a late record: an adult at Killybegs, Co. Donegal, 30th January to 12th February 1983. The Banff individual was present again in early 1987. The record of one at Tralee, Co. Kerry, on 10th January 1959 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee.

274. Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides of race /,. g. kumlieni, Grampian, March 1986 (R. Proctor)

Ross 's Gull Rhodostethia rosea (2, 43, 1) Humberside Hornsea, first-winter, 1st February (W. F. Curtis).

(Northeast Siberia, Greenland and Canada) The record of one off Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 3rd September 1967 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee. Ross's Gull is now much more regular than Ivory Gull Pagophila eburnea: from one to eight have been recorded annually since 1974. This individual turned up the day after the discovery of the Cleveland Ivory Gull, and was presumably a product of the same cold northerly weather system.

Ivory Gull Pagophila eburnea (76, 28, 1) Cleveland Saltburn, immature, 31st January to 8th February (D.J. Britton et al.) (Brit. Birds 79: plates 117-118).

(High Arctic) From one to five were recorded annually from 1976 to 1980, but, apart from four in 1983, this is the first since then. This typically delightfully confiding bird turned up during a period of bitterly


cold weather and stayed in the area, feeding on discarded fish scraps on the beach.

Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica (52, 171, 1) Kent Sandwich Bay, 16th July (N. Odin). 1974 Norfolk Cley, two, 28th September (Brit. Birds 68: 321), identification no longer claimed by A. V, Moon and P. Naylor, but not withdrawn by M.J. Arnold, and record stands.

(Almost cosmopolitan, nearest breeding colony in Denmark) From one to 13 have been recorded annually since 1971.

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia (30, 136, 1) Merseyside Hilbre, 31st May (A. Conlin).

(Almost cosmopolitan except South America, but everywhere local) Apart from the blank year of 1983, an average of about four has been recorded each year since 1964, and this singleton is the poorest showing since 1965. The date, and the short stay, are, however, typical.

Royal Tern Sterna maxima (1, 3, 0) 1974 Cheshire Hilbre Island, 8lh September, no longer accepted, see 1974 Clwyd below. 1974 Flintshire (now Clwyd) Point of Ayr, 22nd September, same as Cheshire individual, originally accepted as Caspian Tern Sterna (then Hydroprogne) caspia or Royal Tern S. maxima (Brit. Birds 68: 322), subsequently as Royal (Brit. Birds 69: 359), now reviewed and considered not acceptable as either.

(West Africa, North America and the Caribbean) The recent better understanding of the identification characters of large terns (e.g. Brit. Birds 80: 257-276) has led to the reassessment of this record. Royal Tern occurrences have now been overtaken by those of Lesser Crested Tern Sterna bengalemis, which was unrecorded before 1982. The last Royal Tern was on 24th November 1979, at Kenfig, Mid Glamorgan.

Lesser Crested Tern Sterna bengalensis (0, 4, 1) Northumberland Hauxley, 2nd July (C. Kehoe, P. Kinsella, S. Young); presumed returning individual of 1984-85 (Brit. Birds'79: 556). Sussex, East Rye, 13th May (P. F. Bonham, K. M.Johnston, Or B.J. Yates et a}.).

(North Africa, and East Africa east to Australia) Records have been annual since the first in 1982, but it is difficult to be sure that some of those counted as different were not in fact the same returning individual moving up and down the English east and south coasts. The Northumberland bird was recorded again in 1987.

Forster's Tern Sterna forsteri (0, 10, 3) Clwyd Point of Ayr, adult, 27th to 28th September (observers not known), same, Abergele, 7th October (P. Kinsella, S. Young) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 20, 275); also seen in Gwynedd (see below) and probably returning individual of 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 559). Gwynedd Holyhead, adult, 19th January to 6th February (K. G. & Mrs E. Croft, R. Evans et al.)\ presumed same, Penmon area, Anglesey, 25th October to at least 23rd November (J. O. Stratford el at). Kent Margate, adult, 11th October (J. P. & M.J. Pointon).

(North America) Also one in Ireland: an adult at Wexford Harbour, 7th June to at least February 1987. The bird at Bull Island, Co. Dublin, since November 1985 remained to at least February 1986. The first record was

5 4 6 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986

275. Korster's Tern Sterna forsteri with Sandwich Tern S. sandvicensis, Clwyd, October 1986 (Steve Young)

as recent as 1980, and most have been in late autumn or winter. The series of sightings from North Wales is all the more remarkable in that a first-winter bird was also reported, from Penmon/Beaumaris on 15th November 1986. That record still remains under consideration, however, and the Committee would be pleased to hear from anyone who saw it.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus (50, 465, 16) Cheshire Woolston Eyes, 13th July (P. Antrobus, I. Clark et at.). Dorset Weymouth and Radipole area, juvenile, 12th to 14th August (J. M. Helps, R.J . Taylor et al.)(Bril. Birds 79: plate 299). Dyfed Llanstadwell, Pembrokeshire, juvenile, 26th August (G. H. Rees). Fife Newton Pond, adult, 13th to 22nd August (D. R. Stewart el al.). Kent Bough Beech Reservoir, juvenile, 11th August (R. Casse, G.J. Harris, D. Hennessy). Dungeness, juvenile, 11th to 12th August (B. Banson,J. C. Lidgate et al); first-winter, 14th to 16th September (K. Reid et at). Norfolk Cley and Felbrigg Lake, adult, 19th August (S.J. M. Gantlett, E. T. Myers et al.). Northamptonshire Thrapston Gravel-pits, juvenile, 14th to 15th August (D. Caswell et al.). Oxfordshire Farmoor Reservoir, juvenile, 15th September (R. Burgess, 1. Lewington, A. Williams et al.). Sussex, East Brighton Marina, adult, 21st June (Dr C. Brooks). 1984 Cambridgeshire Peterborough, juvenile, 29th to 30th September (Brit. Birds 79: 558): full dates 24th September to 1st October, finder T. P. Daunt (per M. R. Coates). 1984 Cleveland See below. 1985 Cleveland Long Drag Pools, adult, 31st July to 5th August (Brit. Birds 79: 557); was in 1984 and observers were M. Davidson, J. E. Willson et al.

(Southeast Europe, West and East Asia) Also three in Ireland: adult at Belfast Harbour Estate, Co. Down, on 13th and 14th June ; adult at Groomsport , Co. Down, on 11th July; adult at Belfast Harbour Estate again on 8th and 9th July; and one at Goat Island, Lough Derg, Co. Tipperary, on 28th June . A typical series of records, but, like 1985, another relatively poor year. The average over the previous ten years was 22 per annum.


Briinnich's Guillemot Una lomvia (2, 18, 1) (Circumpolar Arctic) None in Britain, but the first for Ireland: one at

Ballyteigue Bay, Co. Wexford, on 24th December.

Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator gkmdarius (6, 21, 1) Wight, Isle of Brighstone Bay, 26th May (D. Monks).

(South Europe, Southwest Asia and Africa) There was one in Ireland in 1983, but this is the first in Britain since 1982. The date, and locality, is typical.

Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus (22, 24, 1) 1985 Cornwall Pendeen, recently dead, 13th October (E. Grace, I.. M. Lessels, B. Wetzel).

(North America) None in Britain, but one in Ireland: on Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 30th October. The 1985 Cornish individual is a sadly typical record, and brings the already record year total for 1985 to five.

Scops Owl Otus scops (64, 15, 0) 1985 Devon Kenn, near Exeter, $ dead on road, 20th (Mrs M. Willis per K. Boot, P. W. Ellicott), skin now at Royal Albert. Memorial Museum, Exeter.

(South Europe, Russia, West Asia and Northwest Africa) Eight of the 15 records since 1958 have been of individuals found dead or dying. Only the long-staying bird at Dummer, Hampshire, in 1980 has been seen by more than a handful of lucky observers.

Snowy Owl Nyctea scandiaca (many, 193, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, $ , age uncertain, 16th May (N.J. Riddiford, D. Ross, A. Whitlakerel ai), Fetlar and Unst, three, perhaps four 9 5 probably present throughout year (per I. S. Robertson). 1985 Shetland Fetlar and Unst, three, perhaps four $ $ present throughout year; J summered Ronas Hill, Mainland (per D. Coutts).

(Circumpolar Arctic) Time must be running out for a male to find its way to Shetland if there is to be any chance of the breeding of 1967 to 1975 occurring again.

Tengmalm's Owl Aegolius funereus (49, 7, 1) Orkney Egilsay, 31st May to 1st June (R. Gallernaull, Mrs E. Hibbert et a/.)(plate 282). Glims Holm, dead about three to four weeks, 25th June (R. F. Adam per E. R. Meek).

(North Eurasia and North America) Yet another from Orkney. These two have been presumed to relate to the same individual and now five out of the last seven recorded since 1958 have been on this relatively under-watched archipelago.

Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor (3, 10, 0) 1985 Merseyside Moreton, Wirral, first-winter, taken into care exhausted, 11th October; subsequently ringed and transported to Belize, Central America, by courtesy of Royal Air Force and released in good health about 25th (D. Corss, Mr Crowden, M. J. Ingham et al.).

(North America) This is the eighth since 1976. One has been in September but all the rest in October. Six of the records have come from Scilly. 'Nigel the Nighthawk' made the popular press and was doubtless duly grateful for his star treatment and assisted flight back across the Atlantic.


Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica (0, 2, 1) Scilly St Mary's, 4th to 6th November 0. A. Wolstencroft etat.); same, St Martin's, 7th to9th (I. Poat et at.).

(North America) The only other record concerns two together at Porthgwarra, Cornwall, between 21st and 27th October 1982 {Brit. Birds 78: 563; 79: 423-426).

Alpine Swift Apus melba (150, 212, 14) Cornwall Bude, 9th July (M. A. Golley). Devon Hartland Point, 5th May (G. Dabek, R.J. Halsey); presumed same, near Ilfracombe, 5th (C. F.Johnson, G. M. Tucker). Dorset Portland, 24th August (G. & Mrs P. Walbridge). Humberside Kilnsea, 17th June (T. M. Clegg). Kent Foreness, 13th May (S. D. W. Mount). Northamptonshire Stanford Reservoir, 25th May (J. Davey, M.J. Townsend). Scilly St Mary's and St Agnes, 2nd to 3rd May (P. G. Akers et. at.). St Mary's, 1st July (I. B. Tarrant). Sussex, East Beachy Head, 20th July (Mr & Mrs I,. Lacey-Johnson, K. Murray et at.). Wiltshire Near Galne, 28th June (Miss L. Cady, N. Pleass). 1984 Dorset Durlston, 16th April (R.J. H. Murray et at.). 1985 Devon Berry Head, 11th August (Brit. Birds 79: 559), last seen 19th (per D. M. Norman). 1985 Dorset Durlston, 3!st August (R.J. H. Murray et at.). 1985 Norfolk Cromer to Cley coast and Holme, 3rd to 8th April (J. Hampshire, C, Lucas, B. Moore et al.)(Brit. Birds 78: plates 172-173, erroneously shown as in March).

(South Eurasia, Northwest and East Africa) Also two records, of four birds, in Ireland: three at Ballyteigue Bay, Co. Wexford, on 22nd June; and one at Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow, on 26th July. The Irish record quoted in Brit. Birds 79: 559 should be dated 1974, and not 1984. An about average showing. Records have been annual since at least 1958. The total for the already record year of 1985 now becomes 15.

Little Swift Apus qffinis (0, 7, 0) 1985 Fife St Andrews, 29th May (A. C. Wilson).

(Africa, Middle East and South Asia) Five out of the total of seven have been since 1981, with records in May, June, August and November. This is the first for Scotland.

Belted Kingfisher Cetyk alcyon (1, 4, 0) (North America) None in Britain or Ireland, but the one at Killaloe, Co.

Tipperary, from 6th February to 8th March 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 560) was present until at least 21st March (per K. Grace).

Bee-eater Merops apiaster (154, 199, 17) Cornwall The Lizard, 20th May (A. R. Pay). Dorset Portland, two, 9th May (P. Chandler, J. F. Ryan, G. Walbridge et at.); another, 23rd (P. Howlelt et at.). Dumfries & Galloway Kirkmahoe, 23rd May (Mrs M. Williams et al). Essex Foulness Island, 20lh September (D. A. Bridges). Bradwell, juvenile, 21st September (C. Barton, B. O'Dowd, G. Smith et at.), probably same as Foulness individual. Kent Dungeness, 16th May (S. P. Clancy, S. Kolodziejcki, M.J. Puxley et at); 7th June (C, R. Clark). Man, Isle of Calf of Man, 6th June (C. Davison, D. Walker). Norfolk Holme, three, 29th June (S. Betts).


Somerset Langport, 22nd April (J. Garland, G. H. E. Young). Strathclyde Lochgoilhead, late June or July (R. Kennedy per R. A. Broad). Sussex, East Beachy Head, 26th May (D. R. Bishop, Dr A. M. Hanby et al.).

(South Europe, Southwest Asia and Northwest Africa) Two in Ireland: at Great Saltee, Co. Wexford, on 4th October; and at Newport, Co. Mayo, on 11th October. Also one on Jersey, Channel Islands, on 30th May. Another good showing, but, as usual, none stayed for very long.

Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla (40, 253, 13) Devon Lundy, 13th to 16th October (P. Leonard et a/.)(fig. 6). Gwynedd Bardsey, 5th July (T. Collins et al.). Kent Foreness, 13th September (M. S. Fagg, K. G. Holland). Sandwich Bay, 14th September (D. M. Batchelor). Scilly St Mary's, 3rd to 5th May (A. Greensmith et al.); 2j5th September (N.J. Lever el al.); 12th to 30th October (J. N. Dixon, B. E. Wright et al.). St Agnes, 28th September to at least 3rd October (A.J. Pierce et al.), presumed same as September individual on St Mary's. Shetland Fair Isle, 5th to 11th May (M. G. Pennington, N.J. Riddiford, A. Whitaker et al); 3rd to 15th October (C.J. Mackenzie-Grieve, N.J. Riddiford et al); 17th to 31st, two, 20th to 24th (J. N. Dymond, N.J. Riddiford et al.). Out Skerries, 25th to 29th May (R. Gall et al.). At Sea Sea area Humber, Inner Dowsing Tower, 53° 20'N 0° 34'E, about 15 km from Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, 16th June (M. P. Lee). 1985 Fife Isle of May, 8th May (Brit. Birds 79: 561), observers should have included J. M. S. Arnott.

(South Eurasia, North and East Africa) Also one in Ireland: at Dursey Island, Co. Cork, on 9th October. The average for the past ten years is about 13 per annum. The at-sea record has not been counted in the species totals.

Fig. 6. Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla, Devon, October 1986 {from colour illustration by Paul Leonard)

Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica (7, 87, 1) Derbyshire Williamthorpe Reservoir, 15th November (S. Mann).

(South and East Eurasia, and Africa) Records have been annual since 1964, with up to 13 recorded (in 1977 and 1980), but also with a number of years, most recently 1982, producing only singles. Four have previously been seen in November, but most have been in spring.


276. Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus, Merseyside, October 1984 (P. Wheeler)

Cliff Swallow Hirundo pyrrhonota (0, 1, 0) 1983 Scilly St Agnes, juvenile, 10th October (P. Vautrinot et at.); same, St Mary's, 10th to at least 27th (M.J. Crosby, P. Morrison et al.) (Brit. Birds 77: plates 14-15).

(North America) The first record for Britain and Ireland, and new to the Western Palearctic. Full details will be published in due course. On the evening of its discovery, it performed to an estimated crowd of 300 admirers as it fed over the very same group of trees on St Mary's Garrison which had played host to Britain's first Green Warbler Phylloscopus nitidus only a week previously (Brit. Birds 78: 576).

Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae (135, - , - ) 1980 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, 29th September (S. C. Richardson); 16th to 19th October (K. H.Johnston, S. C. Richardson).

(West Siberia east to Mongolia and southeast to New Zealand, also Africa) This species was removed from the list of species considered by the Committee at the end of 1982.

Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni (1, 35, 3) Kent Dungeness, 18th October (N. R. Davies et at.). Northumberland Holy Island, 14th October (A. Cruikshanks). Shetland Fair Isle, 1st November (N.J. Riddiford). 1985 Fife Isle of May, 22nd to 23rd May, trapped 22nd (Brit. Birds 79: 567), observers were I. English, P. J. Ewins et at.

(Northeast Russia to Central and East Asia) Records have now been annual since 1973, with an average of about three per year during the past ten years. Most records have been between mid October and early November.

Pechora Pipit Anthus gustavi (13, 15, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, 10th October (D. R. Bird, N.J . Riddiford et al.).


(Northeast Russia, across Siberia to Bering Strait) A typical record in both location and date; of the 16 recorded since 1958, ten have been on Fair Isle between 8th September and 10th October.

Red-throated Pipit Anthns cervinus (30, 157, 2) Cornwall Reskajeage, near Portreath, 6th to 10th October (D. S. Flumm et at.). Scilly St Mary's, 15th to 22nd October (P. Bawden, R. A. Hargreaves, R. G. Morton et al.). 1984 Merseyside Moreton, 16th to 18th October (P. Gutteridge, Dr P. Wheeler et a/.)(plate 276). 1985 Kent St Margaret's, 6thJune (A.J. Greenland). 1985 Yorkshire, North Filey Brigg, 12th to 14th June (T. L. Hobson, P. M. Scanlan et al).

(Arctic Eurasia) This is the poorest showing since the single record of 1974. The average for the past ten years has been about eight per annum. The lack of spring records, which had been annual since 1973, is also noteworthy.

Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola (2, 37, 3) Cornwall Marazion, juvenile, 27th August (J. A. Eyre, M. Shaw, H Shorrock et at.). Norfolk The Barnet, Blakeney, juvenile, 26th to 29th September (M. Fiszer, J. P. R. Guest, E. T. Myers et at.). Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, 10th to 16th September (S. J. M. Gantlett, K. Osborn, D. Suddaby et al,). 1985 Lothian Tyninghame, juvenile, 31st August (D.J. Bates et at.).

(Northeast and East Russia, West Siberia, and West and Central Asia) One or two were recorded annually from 1966 to 1984, except for the blank year of 1977. The three in both 1985 and 1986 represent new peaks.

Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinends (0, 0, 1) (North America) The first for Britain and Ireland occurred on Cape

Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 4th November.

Thrush Nightingale Lustinia lusania (2, 64, 2) Fife Isle of May, trapped, 8th May (I. Balfour Paul, J. H. B. Munro, G. L. Sandeman). Shetland Fair Isle, 20th August (D. R. Bird, K. Osborn, S. Thompson et al.).

(Scandinavia, East Europe and West Asia) The average for the previous ten years was about four per annum, but both 1980 and 1982 were complete blanks.

White-throated Robin Irania gutturalis (0, 1,0) 1983 Man, Isle of Calf of Man, cf, 22nd June (J. R. Calladine, A. del Nevo, M. W. Watson).

(Turkey to Iran) The first, and long awaited, record for Britain and Ireland fell at last to the patient watchers on the Calf of Man. Full details will be published in due course,

Stonechat Saxicola torquata (1, 88, 6) Individuals showing the characters of one or other of the eastern races S. t. maura or stejnegeri, colloquially known as 'Siberian Stonechats', were recorded as follows: Berkshire Brimpton Gravel-pits, 9 , 31st October to 2nd November, trapped 2nd (N. Cleere, G. E. Wilson el a/.)(plate 278). Dyfed Strumble Head, $ or immature, 12th October (N. A. Lethaby, G. H. Rees et al.). Essex Hanningfield Reservoir, first-winter J , 6th December to 10th January 1987, possibly


277. Siberian Stonechat Saxkola lorquata mcmra or stejnegeri, Essex, December 1986 (J. Miller)

278. Siberian Stonechat Saxkola torquata mama or stejnegeri, Berkshire, November 1986

(N. Cleere)

since 29th September (A.J. Kane,J. Miller, L. Steward el <rf.)(plate 277). Kent Dungeness, $ or immature, 12th November (S. P. Clancy, K. Reid). Man, Isle of Calf of Man, $ or immature, 1st November (C. N. Davison, D. Walker). Norfolk Winterton Dunes, $ or immature, first seen 9th November 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 569) to February 5th (per P. R. Allard). Blakeney Point, 5 or immature, 12th to 13th October (G. E. Dunmore, A. Vittery et al.). 1985 Humberside Spurn, $ or immature, 22nd October (W. Brooking, S. W. Gale et al.). 1985 Yorkshire, North Filey Brigg, $ or immature, 18th to 21st October (S. Cochrane, T. Rhodes, H.J. Whitehead et al.).

(White Sea, eastwards across Siberia, East Caucasus and Northern Iran) A typical series of records, but the two individuals over-wintering, in Essex and in Norfolk the previous year, are noteworthy.

Pied Wheatear Oenanthe plescfianka (3, 9, 1) Kent Reculver, d \ possibly first-winter, 18th to 19th October (W. G. Harvey, C. Hindle et al.).

(Southeast Europe and South-central Asia) All but one of the ten records since 1958 have been in the past eleven years. Most have been in late autumn and only one has been in spring: the memorable male at Winterton, Norfolk, on 28th May 1978.

279. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Derbyshire, January 1987 (Steve Young) 280. First-winter male American Wigeon Anas americana, Shetland, September 1986 (Alan

Roberts)

281. Gyrfalcon Fako rusticolus, Co. Wexford, April 1986 (Anthony McGeehan)

282. Tengmalm's Owl Aegolius funereus, Orkney, May 1986 (Elizabeth Hibbert)

283. Male King Eider Somateria spectabilis, Grampian, May 1986 (Andrew Webb)

284. Juvenile Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla, Scilly, October 1986 (P. Wheeler)

285. First-winter Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla moulting to first-summer, Cornwall, April 1986 (M. R. Whiteside)


Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica (15, 24, 0) 1984 Devon Lundy, cf, 3rd June (P. de Groot, K. A. Mortimer). 1985 Cornwall Kelsey Head, cf, 28th to 29th May (K. Fisher, D. Webster).

(Southern Europe, Northwest Africa and Southwest Asia, also Iran) Short-stayers seem to be the rule with this wheatear, but perhaps this is due to the fact that the majority are overshooting spring migrants, whereas Desert Wheatear, for example, occurs more regularly in autumn. From one to three have been recorded each year since 1968, except for the blank years of 1972, 1976, 1978, 1982 and 1986.

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti (11, 12, 1) Cumbria South Walney, 15th to 21st November (G. Agar, T. Dean, I. R. Kinley et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 47-48, 98, 286, 288). 1985 Highland Freswick, cf, from 26th December 1984 to at least 12th January (Brit. Birds 79: 570), also 13th (M. S. Garner et al.).

(North Africa, Northwest Arabia and east to Mongolia) There were only three between 1971 and 1983, but there have now been records, totalling four birds, for three years running. Most have been in late autumn, but this is the first for Northwest England.

288. Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti, Cumbria, November 1986 (Brian Unwin)

Black Wheatear or White-crowned Black Wheatear Oenanthe leucura/ 0. kucopyga (4, 2, 0)

None in Britain or Ireland, but the Irish Rare Birds Committee now considers that the wheatear at Portnoo, Co. Donegal, on 10th June 1964 is best referred to under this heading.

286. Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti, Cumbria, November 1986 (P. Wheeler) 287. Juvenile Rose-coloured Starling Stumus roseus, Scilly, October 1986 (P. Wheeler)


Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis (6, 14, 1) Gwynedd Llyn Alaw, Anglesey, $, 4th to 6th June (N. Brown, J. Clark et al.).

(Central and Southern Eurasia) There were only three between 1971 and 1982, but now six have been recorded in the subsequent four years. Most have been in spring, and another has been recorded in Wales: a male at Ynyslas, Dyfed, on 21st June 1981.

White's Thrush Zoothera dauma (29, 12, 0) 1984 Devon Salcombe, 12thJanuary (Mr & Mrs A.J .J . Doulton).

(Northern and Central Siberia) Of the 12 since 1958, five have been in Shetland, and all the rest have been brief-stayers, often in the lucky observers' gardens!

Siberian Thrush Zoothera sibirica (1, 4, 0) (Central Siberia east to Japan) None in Britain or Ireland, but it should

be noted here that the one in Ireland in 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 570) was an immature female, not a male.

Gray-cheeked Thrush Cathams minimus (1, 19, 10) Cornwall Bosigran Castle, 21st October (S. Mann). Cot Valley, 23rd to 25th October (N. Alford, P. Lauezzari et al.). Porthgwarra, 26th October (B. R. Cox, R. Innes, J. Warne). Scilly Tresco, at least two: 20th October (B. Reed et al.); probably same, nearby locality, 20th to 23rd (M. S. Fagg, K. G. Holland, P. N. Prior el al.); another, 20th (J. B. Good et al.). St Mary's, at least four: 20th to 21st October, when killed by cat (K. Hardy et al.); 22nd October, when drowned on shore, specimen retained by C. R. Janman (P. Davis, N. Green, C. R. Janman et al); 22nd to 25th October (S. P. Evans, D. Hovell, P. A. St Pierre et al.); 24th October (D. M. Harris, K. G. Holland, A. Tate); probably same, nearby locality, 27th to at least 16th November (D.J. Odell, M.J. Palmer, P. M. Potts et a/.)(plate 289). Bryher, 27th to 28th October (A. H.J. Harrop, I. R. Machin).

(North America and Northern Siberia) The Rarities Committee would also be pleased to receive details of another two reportedly on St Agnes, Scilly, during this period. Despite the minimalist approach to the counting of individuals adopted by the Committee, this represents double 289. Gray-cheeked Thrush Cathams minimus, St Mary's, Scilly, 24th October 1986 (/. A. Hazell)


the previously unprecedented influx of 1976, and matches the record for any species of American landbird in Britain and Ireland: the ten Blackpoll Warblers Dendroica striata in that same exceptional year. Interestingly, relatively few other American landbirds arrived with this influx and in particular not one Swainson's Thrush Catharus ustulatus was found.

Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler Locustella certhiola (3, 5, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, trapped, 26th September (A. Broome, A. Roberts, N. J. Riddiford el a/.)(plates 290 & 291).

(Western Siberia and Central Asia to Japan) A Fair Isle speciality: five of the nine records have been there. All have been between 13th September and 26th October.

290 & 291. Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler Locustella certhiola, Shetland, September

1986 (Alan Roberts)

Lanceolated Warbler Locustella lanceolata (9, 27, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, trapped, 8th October (D. P. Bell, I. Elder, N.J . Riddiford et at.).

(East Eurasia from Central Russia to North Japan) Fair Isle has hosted 22 of the 28 records since 1958. All but two have fallen between 14th September and 14th October.

Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola (47, - , - ) 1982 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, juvenile, 18th to 23rd September; possibly another, 30th (K. M. Johnston, S. C. Richardson).

(East Europe and Urals) This species was dropped from the list of species considered by the Committee at the end of 1982. This late acceptance takes the 1982 total to 16.


Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephahts agricola (2, 10, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, 26th September to 1st October, trapped 26th (D. R. Bird, J. N. Dymond, N.J. Riddiford et al.).

(South Russia and Asia) Also a late record from Ireland: an adult trapped at North Slob, Co. Wexford, on 3rd December 1984 died on 4th, the first Irish record. The wind on Fair Isle veered southeast, the classic direction for migrants, for just half a day during the whole of September 1986; and on that day this Paddyfield Warbler and a Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler were discovered in the same ditch.

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus (23, 117, 1) Orkney North Ronaldsay, trapped, 11th June (M. Gray, Mr & Mrs H. Swanney). 1984 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, in song, 17th to 18th May (K. M.Johnston, S. C. Richardson). 1985 Sussex, East Near St Leonard's, in song, 20th May (K. M.Johnston).

(Europe, Southwest and East Asia and North Africa) The average for the previous ten years was about four per year. Apart from the complete blank of 1983, this is thus the poorest showing since 1968.

Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans (12, 143, 13) Cumbria South Walney, o \ trapped, 6th June (T. Dean, C. Rose). Devon Thurlestone, cf, 8th to 11th May (H. & Mrs J. M. Huggins). Dyfed Skomer, a", 20th May (J. Parker, V. Seabrook, S.J. Sutcliffe et al.). Humberside Spurn, first-summer 9 , 17th to 25th May, trapped 17th (J. Hewitt, B. R. Spence, J. C. Wardill el al.) {Brit. Birds 79: plate 214). Kent Margate, cf, 13th May (D. C. Gilbert). Dungeness, Cf, 28th May (M. Bailey, S. McMinn, A. Willcox). Man, Isle of Calf of Man, first-summer $ , trapped, 15th June; ($, 15th to 16th June, trapped 15th (C. Davison, D. Walker). Shetland Unst, cf, 20th May to 2nd June (P. D. Bloor et al). Fair Isle, cf, 3rd July (K. Osborn, N.J . Riddiford et al.). Dunrossness, first-winter Cf, 23rd September (J. N. Darroch, Sir R. Erskjne-Hill, J. N. Dymond et al.). Suffolk Landguard, cf, 25th September to 2nd October, trapped 26th (R. & M.J. Beecroft, C. P. S. Ruffles el al). Tyne & Wear •Finchate Abbey, cf, 11 th May (Miss K. A. Walker). 1985 Dyfed Skomer, cf, 20th April to 8th May (Brit. Birds 79: 572), again 18th (P. J. Benstead). 1985 Shetland Sumburgh, $ or first-winter, 23rd to 24th August (M. S. Chapman). 1985 Tyne & Wear Whitburn, <j>, 14th May (B. Stewart).

(South Europe, West Turkey and Northwest Africa) Another good year; the record is 17 in 1985.

Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala (1, 12, 1) Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, cf, 6thJuly to 31st August, trapped 6th July, retrapped late August (J. Halls, 1. Hartley, K. W. Winfield). 1985 Scilly St Mary's, cf, 23rd to 24th October (Brit. Birds 79: 573), additional finder was E. T. Wrelland.

(South Europe, Middle East and North Africa) Interestingly, there has been a previous long-staying male at Gibraltar Point: from 30th June to 15th September 1979. This is the first time that a single locality has recorded the species on more than one occasion. Of the 14 now recorded, five have stayed for more than five weeks, but most have proved very skulking and difficult to observe.


Orphean Warbler Sylvia hortensis (2, 3, 0) 1981 Norfolk Stiffkey, 17th August (Brit. Birds 75: 522), now considered not acceptable after review.

(South Europe, east to Turkestan, and Northwest Africa).

Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides (13, 119, 5) Cleveland Locke Park, Redcar, 28th to 30th August (D.J. Britton, M. Carter, E. G. Clark et al). Humberside Spurn, first-winter, 26th to 28th August, trapped 28th (P. I. Holt, M. G. Neal, B. R. Spence). Northumberland Low Hauxley, first-winter, 28th to 31st August, trapped 28th, re-trapped 30th, 31st (J. C. Day, I Fisher, M. Nattrass et al). Suffolk Lowestoft, first-winter, 20th to 22nd September (B. J. & T. M. Brown et al.}. Tyne & Wear Prior's Park, first-winter, trapped, 27th August (M. P. Carruthers, M. Cubtlt, L. Hall et al.). 1983 Highland Aberfeldy, in song, 21st May to 25th June (Brit. Birds 78: 576), also 26th (per R. H. Dennis).

(Eurasia, east from Northern Germany) It is interesting to note that four of the five recorded turned up on the East Coast within the space of three days in late August, the peak time for this species. The fifth individual, however, turned up nearly a month later at a time more often, but not exclusively, associated with the closely related Arctic Warbler. Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis (19, 127, 5) Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, first-winter, 20th to 21st September, trapped 20th (I. Hartley, A. Peachey, K. W. Winfield et al.). Tetney, first-winter, 26th to 29th September (G. P. Catley, I. G. Shepherd et al). Scilly St Mary's, two, 30th September to 2nd October (P.J. Grant, P. I. Holt, S. D. Housden et al). Shetland Fair Isle, 12th to 18th September (A. Banwell, N.J. Riddiford et al)(p\ate 292).

292. Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis, Shetland, September 1986 (Alan Roberts)


1985 Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, 3rd September (D. R. Bird); another, 11th (S .J . Aspinall, K. B. Shepherd el al.).

(Northern Fenno-Scandia east to Alaska) A typical series of records. They have been annual since 1964, with an average of about six per annum during the past ten years.

Pallas's Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus (3, 343, 9) Humberside Spurn, 2nd to 3rd November (J. Cudworth et al). Man, Isle of Port Erin, trapped, 20th November (Mr & Mrs B. Karran). Norfolk Waxham, 21st November (R. Cobbold et al.), Scilly St Agnes, 15th October (P. O. Lansdown et al.). Sussex, East Balsdean, 6th November (M. H. Port, J. Reaney, G. A. Sutton). Beachy Head, 9th to 10th November (R. D. M. Edgar, T. W. Parmenter). Sussex, West Climping, 11th November (A. S. Cook). Church Norton, 13th November ("1". Edwards el al.). Yorkshire, North Filey, 2nd to 3rd November, trapped 2nd (P.J. Dunn, J. Harwood et al.). 1985 Humberside Kilnsea, 24th to 25th October (K. Rotherham, A. Wrighlson), 1985 Norfolk Happisburgh, trapped, 22nd October (Mrs B, M. E. Unsworth).

(Central, East and Southeast Asia) A rather late year: all but the St Agnes individual were in November, whereas late October is the time of the normal peak.

Radde's Warbler Phylloscopus schwarzi (1, 49, 1) Scilly St Agnes, 8th to 10th October (D. & Mrs J. Bridges, L. G. R. Evans, M. V. Henty, N. A.J. Hudson et al.).

(Central and East Asia) This former extreme rarity has failed to appear in only two years since 1973. St Agnes now has had eight records, narrowly beating Wells/Holkham, Norfolk, which has had seven.

Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus (1, 47, 3) Kent Sandwich Bay, first-winter, 2nd to 3rd November, trapped 2nd (B, E. & N. Moore, N. Odin et al.). Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, trapped 14th November (M. G. Pennington, N.J. Riddiford et al.). Kergord, first-winter, 15th to 21st November, trapped 18th (D. R. Bird,J. D. Okill, M. G. Pennington el al.). 1985 Cornwall Cot Valley, 13th October (A.J. Bundy).

(Central and Northeast to Southeast Asia) Over the years, the total numbers of records of this species have almost exactly matched those of Radde's Warbler, although this species does tend to occur slightly later in the autumn, as these records demonstrate.

Bonelli's Warbler Phylloscopus bonelli (3, 86, 5) Devon Middle Soar, 23rd to at least 26th August (R. Burridge, P. A. Dukes et al). Orkney Holm, first-winter, 26th October to 15th November, trapped 26th, retrapped 14th (R. G. Adam, E. R. Meek et al). Scilly Bryher, first-winter, 10th to 14th October (T. M.J. Doran, L. H. & R. Still et al). St Mary's, first-winter, 17th October to at least 1st November (G. Cooper, L. G. R. Evans, R. E. Morton et al). Sussex, East Beachy Head, adult, trapped, 30th September (R. H. Charlwood et al).

(Central, West and South Europe, Levant, and Northwest Africa) The Orkney bird was surprisingly late, especially for one so far north.


Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor (32, 92, 1) Gwynedd Near Abersoch, 0 \ 17th to 18th October (Mrs Roberts); same, Aberdaron, 20th to at least 15th November, probably since 19th (A. Davies, E, & M. E. L. Nobles et al.) (Brit. Birds 80: plates 13-14).

(South and East Europe and Southwest Asia) This bird was remarkably tame, and was even seen feeding on a bird-table, which seems most unusual for an apparently wild shrike.

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator (101, 375, 21) Cornwall Marazion, 2nd June (R. Edwards). The Lizard, juvenile, 12th to 15th August (H. C. Keay, A. R. Pay). Porthgwarra, juvenile, 18th August (D. S. Flumm et al.). Cumbria South Walney, 20th to 29th May, trapped 20th (T. Dean, Mrs J. Robinson-Dean, D. Satterthwaite). Devon Prawle Point, 9th to 15th May (H. Millar et alt). Slapton Ley, 24th May (R. M. Belringer). Bigbury, 31st May to 1st June (B. P. Bower). Dorset Portland, four: 30th April to 15th Mav, trapped 30lh (P. Hewlett el at.); another, at least 10th May (A. G. Clarke, C. D. Head et al.); 29th May to 1st June (P. Howlett, D. G. Muir et at); 8th to 11th June (P. Howlett, M. Rogers, G. Walbridge et al.). Dyfed Skokholm, 19th May (R. Pownall, R. S. Wolstenholrne). Skomer, adult, 5th September (S. J. Sutcliffe). Gwynedd Trawsfynydd, 19th May (P. Holland). Kent Cliffe, 14th to 16th May (F. W. Warwick). Scilly St Agnes and Gugh, 3rd to at least 22nd May (G. R. Avery, W. R. Tunnicliffe, N. E. Wall et al.). St Mary's, 15th to 23rd May (M. Cross, M.J. Rogers et al.). Stradiclyde Ailsa Craig, juvenile, 25th to 26th September, trapped 25th (H. K. Bradlev, B. Zonfrillo et al.) (Brit. Birls 79: plate 347). Suffolk Carlton Colville, 1st to 11th June (B. J. Brown, N. Muddeman, M. Parker el al.), Tunstall Common, 7th to 8th June (A. Miller, L. Potter et al.). Surrey Moorhouse, near Westerham, adult, killed by car, 8th October (E. Fell). 1982 Suffolk Hollesley Common, 22nd to 23rd May (A. Miller, K. Sherman el al.). 1985 Scilly 'Fresco, juvenile, 9th to 21st October (the late L. A. Tucker, K. E. Vinicombe et al.).

(West, Central and South Europe, Southwest Asia and North Africa) The year 1986 was close to the record of 24 in 1968. The spring series of at least four different individuals at Portland is noteworthy. Although reports are sometimes received of spring adults apparently resembling the race badius (West Mediterranean islands and Northwest Africa), it is the opinion of the Committee that the characters of this race are not sufficiently well defined to distinguish such individuals from some individuals of the nominate race.

Rose-coloured Starling Stumus roseus (160, 156, 7) Dyfed St David's, juvenile, late October to late December, when probably died {Mr & Mrs B. Davies,J. W. Donovan et al). Scilly St Mary's, juvenile, 1st to 11th October (G. L. Gamage, M. Kennewell et a/.)(plate 287). Shetland Noss, possibly first-summer, 14th to 18th June (P. V. Harvey, D. Suddaby). East Rurra, first-summer, 23rd to 28th June (G. Megson et al.).

(Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia) Also three in Ireland: adult at Greenacres, Kesh, Co. Fermanagh, on 3rd August; adult at Skerries, Co. Dublin, 4th to 11th September (Brit. Birds 79; plates 345-346; 80: plates 293 & 294); and juvenile on Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, 16th to 20th September and 1st to 14th October (one bird). Some typical records: about seven per year has been the average for the past ten years.


293 & 294. Adult Rose-coloured Starling Stumus roseus, Co. Dublin, September 1986

(O. O'Sullivan)

Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus (1, 33, 2) Kent Dungeness, first-winter, trapped, 7th October (S. McMinn, K. Reid, R. Walters). Scilly St Agnes, first-winter, 19th October to at least 2nd November (P. D. Hyde, J. M. Randall et a/.).

(North America) These were the second for Dungeness and the fifteenth for Scilly. All have appeared between 25th September and 18th October.

Serin Serinus serinus (76, -, -) (West, Central and Southern Europe, Asia Minor and Northwest

Africa) No longer considered by the Committee, a late record comes from Ireland: at Galley Head, Co. Cork, on 2nd October 1979.


Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni (30, 109, 3) Cleveland Redcar, possibly Cf, 9th (o 27th February, trapped 11th (I. Boustead, D.J . Britton, E. G. Clark el a/.)(plate 295). Highland Loch Hope, Sutherland, 10th to 20th April (P. Ball, K. B. Shepherd el al.). Western Isles Stilligarry, South Uist, 9th December (T.J. Dix). 1984 Highland Melvich, Sutherland, d \ trapped, 29th September (Dr G. C. Crittenden). 1984 Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, possibly first-winte.r, 15th January to 25th February (G. P. Catley, L. G. R. F.vans, M. Feather el al.). 1984 Norfolk Titchwell, 12th November (J. B. Kemp).

1984 Shetland Fair Isle, 25: ten, 19th to 20th October, including four first-winter C?Cf, three first-winter 9 9 trapped 19th; two, possibly of same, 21st, one 22nd; cf, 21st to 23rd; age, sex indeterminate, 22nd; another, 26th to 27th; first-winter, probably cf, trapped, 26th; cf, trapped, and three others, age, sex, indeterminate, 27th; two, age, sex indeterminate 8th November; another three, including cf, probably adult, 9th; age, sex indeterminate, 13th to 17th; probable adult, sex indeterminate, 13th to 19th (P. V. Harvey, K. Osborn, N.J . Riddiford el al). West Burra, 16th to 18th November, two, 18th (P. M. Ellis, J. D. Okill, D.J. Weaver el al.). 1985 Humberside Spurn, first-winter Cf, trapped, died, 20th November, skin retained by J. R. Mather (J. Cudworth, B. R. Spence). 1985 Lothian Near Whiteadder Reservoir, 2nd to 19th January (A. Brown, P. R. Gordon el al). 1985 Norfolk Holkham Meals, 18th February to 10th March (R. H. Aberdien, J. T. Corcoran, S.J. M. Gantlett el al.); at least three others, 20th to 24th February (J. B. Kemp el al.); possibly six or seven in total, 19th January to 7th April (B. Bland, J. B. Kemp el al.). 1985 Shetland Fair Isle, 4th to 9th May, probably same, 14th (P. V. Harvey, N.J. Riddiford el al.); first-summer 9 , 25th to 26th, trapped 25th (N.J. Riddiford). 1985 Tyne & Wear Whitburn, 23rd November (W. A. Davidson, J. Dick). 1985 Yorkshire, North Knaresborough, probably 9 , 26th to 27th January, 3rd February (J. R. Mather, I. P. F. Owens, P. T. Treloar). 1985 Yorkshire, South Old Denaby, 18th February to 9th March (N. W. Addey, J. Law el al).

(Circumpolar Arctic) The previous best year, with 13, was 1972, so the series of 25 on Fair Isle in autumn 1984 is unprecedented. The record of one at Malin Head, Co. Donegal, on 21st October 1961 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee.

Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera (40, 25, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, cf, trapped, 1st September (J. Higgett, N.J. Riddiford, C. Vawdrey el al) (Brit. Birds 79: plate 348). 1982 Yorkshire, South Holling Dale Plantation, cf, at least 30th October (F. R. Cooper, D. Hursthouse).

295. Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni, Cleveland, February 1986 {IX J. Britton)


1985 Central Region Carron Valley Forest, J , 14th October to at least 30th March 1986 (Brit. Birds 79: 579), also 31st (per P. Bristow). 1972 Shetland Kergord, Cf, 6th to 13th July, previously accepted (Brit. Birds 66: 353), now considered not acceptable after review.

(Northwest Europe, North-central Asia, northern North America and West Indies) The fine male on Fair Isle was at first casually reported as 'a crossbill', but the observatory swiftly emptied when, later, equally casual reference was made to its two white wing-bars.

Parrot Crossbill Loxia pytyopsittacus (10, 217, 0) Norfolk Wolferton, three Cfcf, three 9 9 . 19th to 26th January (A. Bloomfield, D. Foster et a/.). Suffolk Locality withheld, d \ two 5 $ or immatures, at,least 8th March (D. E. Croxson); C?, 17th (J. M. Cawston, S. Ling).

(Northern Europe, from Norway east to Russia and south to Estonia) AH of these are presumed to be birds from previous years. The Norfolk ones were probably those from Holkham, where they returned in February 1986 (but for which details have not yet been received by the Committee). The record of five at Tory Island, Co. Donegal, on 15th October 1968 is now considered unacceptable by the Irish Rare Birds Committee.

Northern Parula Parula americana (0, 10, 0) 1982 Greater Manchester Wigan Infirmary, moribund, 2nd November; now at Liverpool Museum (E. King, Mrs S. Whalley).

(North America) The first inland record, and the second to be found in November.

Yellow-ramped Warbler Dendroica coronata (1, 14, 0) 1985 Man, Isle of Individual shown in colour last year (Brit. Birds 79: plate 284), was in May, not April.

(North America).

Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea (0, 7, 0) (North America) Two late records from Ireland: female at Copeland

Bird Observatory, Co. Down, on 12th October 1963, previously accepted only as an unspecified tanager; and first-winter female at Firkeel, Co. Cork, 12th to 14th October 1985.

Rustic Bunting Embetiza rustica (34, 149, 7) Devon Lundy, 12th to about 15th October (T. Barker, P. Leonard, R. S. Slack et a/.)(fig. 7). Dorset Portland, Cf, 30th May (D. Walbridge). Grampian Drums, 5th October (G. M. Cresswell, W. N. Hughes). Northumberland Holywell Dene, <$, 19th April (J. R. Todd, K. W. York). Scilly St Mary's, 7th to 12th October (G. Etherington, L. G. R. Evans et al). Shetland Fair Isle, 0*, 19th to 21stJune, trapped 19th (K. Osborn, N.J. Riddiford et al.); 21st to 22nd October (M. G. Pennington, N.J . Riddiford et al). 1985 Scilly Tresco, 13th October (B. R. Cox, P. A.J. Morris, N.J . N. Pope et al). 1985 Yorkshire, North Filey, 9 , 11th to 12th May (P.J. Dunn, H.J. Whitehead et al).

(Northeast Europe across to North Asia) Some typical records; seven has been about the average for the past ten years. The Irish record in 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 581) was at Loop Head, Co. Clare (not Co. Cork).


Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla (93, 274, 21) Avon Lansdown, near Bath, 17th October (T. H. Smith). Cornwall The Lizard, 4th November (B. Cave). Essex Landguard Point, first-winter, trapped, 10th October (M. C. Marsh, S. Piotrowski). Gwynedd Bardsey, 10th February to 26th April, trapped 12th April (S. W. Anderson, T. Collins, J. Strick el al.)\ trapped, 13th October (T. Collins, D. Okines). Highland Longman Rubbish tip, Inverness, cf, 15thJanuary to 9th February (S.J. Aspinall et al.). Locality withheld, near Inverness, different cf, 9th March to 26th April, possibly since 31st January (S.J. Aspinall et al.). Humberside Spurn, 12th to 13th October, trapped 13th (T. A. Ede, B. R. Spence, C. C. Straw et al.). Norfolk Holkham Meals, 11th to 14th October (J. Edwards, V.J. Hanlon, F. A. Wardman et al.); another, 2nd November (P. Bawden et al.). Orkney Kirkwall, 11th May (C.J. Booth, Mrs N. Hewison, Mrs D. Lea). Twingness, North Ronaldsay, 24th September (C. C. McGuigan, R. J. Safford et al.); probably same, Stennabreck, 25th to 28th, trapped 25th (S. C. & Mrs J. A. Entwisle-Baker, C. C. McGuigan, Dr K. F. Woodbridge et al.). Antabreck, North Ronaldsay, 25th to at least 27th September (C. C. McGuigan, K. A. Turner et al.). Scilly St Mary's, two, 17th October, one to 24th (P. I. Holt e/a/.)(plates 15-16); probably one of same, another locality, 18th (A.J. Prater, Miss S. M. Woodman). St Agnes, 25th to 29th October (S. M. C. Stone, I.J. Williams, C. Wills et al.), probably one of St Mary's individuals. Shetland Fair Isle, four: first-winter, 8th to 13th September, trapped 11th (M. G. Pennington, N. J. Riddiford, T. Williams et al.); 5th to 9th October (D. R. Bird, N. J. Riddiford et al); 21st to 25th (M. G. Pennington, N.J . Riddiford et al); 22nd to 24th (D. R. Bird et al.). Surrey Pirbright Common, 25th April (J. R. Mullins). 1985 Orkney Torness, 24th September (Brit. Birds 79: 582), locality is on North Ronaldsay. 1985 Shetland Fair Isle, 23rd to 25th September (D. Orr-Ewing, D. C. Wege); 23rd to 26th October, additional to those already published {Brit. Birds 79: 582) (P. V. Harvey, N. J. Riddiford et al.).

(Northeast Europe and North Asia) Also one in Ireland: at Galley Head, Co. Cork, 25th to 28th October. An about-average year, and a typical series of records, with a good spread around the country.

Fig. 7. Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica, Devon, October 1986 (from colour illustration by Paul Leonard)


Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola (10, 113, 7) Shetland Fair Isle, six 9 5 o r immatures: 14lh to 16th September (S.J. M. Ganllett, N.J , Riddiford); 16th (J. Higginson, N.J . Riddiford, I). Suddaby et al.); 21sl (I). Suddaby et al); 23rd to 27th (G. K. Gordon, P. V. Harvey, I). Suddaby el at.); 27th to 28th (G. K. Gordon, M. G. Pennington el al.); 5th to 7th October (D. R. Bird, N.J. Riddiford et al.). Virkie, J or immature, 21st September (G.J. Mackenzie-Grieve). 1985 Orkney Bridesness, North Ronaldsay, juvenile O*, 22nd to 24th September, trapped 22nd (J. J. Sweeney el al.). 1985 Shetland Fair Isle, another, 7th to 10th October (Brit. Birds 79: 582), was 7th to 10th November.

(Northeast Europe across North Asia) The Northern Isles consolidate their near monopoly of this species, and Fair Isle, the prime site, had its best year since the record seven in 1980.

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala (9, 55, 5) Essex Colne Point, Cf, 5th to 9th June (Dr S. Cox et at). Greater London Bromley-by-Bow, Cf, 24th August (I,. P. Prenderville). Scilly St Agnes cf, 13th to 14th June, caught and released 14th (F. H. D. Hicks, W. H. Wagstaffe( al). Shetland Virkie, 0 \ at least 23rd to 29th June (D. Coutts, I, Sandison). Fair Isle, cf, 3rd July (W. Murray, K. Osborn, A. Whittaker et al.). 1984 Orkney Westray, cf, 14th July (Drs A. M. & M. L. Westwaler).

(Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia) It seems strange that almost all records are of males. The usual escape caveat applies to all these records; the St Agnes bird had acquired some blue dye on its tail from somewhere. The Committee would still be grateful to receive details of a male at Cley, Norfolk, in October 1984.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus (0, 17, 1) Scilly 'Fresco, first-winter cf, 10th to 25th October (T. Baker et at.).

(North America) All but one have been in October. This is the seventh record for Scilly.

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus (0, 12, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, 29th September to 2nd October (P. V. Harvey, N. J. Riddiford et al).

(North America) Singles have been recorded annually since 1981. The first for Fair Isle was almost overlooked amongst the superficially similar Yellow-breasted Buntings. Eight of the previous records have been in Scilly.

Appendix 1. Category D species accepted (see Brit, Birds 64: 429)

Chestnut Bunting Emberiza rutila (0, 2, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, first-summer Cf, 15th to 16th June, trapped 15th (K. Osborn, N . J . Riddiford, A. Whittaker et al.). 1985 Fife Isle of May, first-year, trapped, 11th June (K. Brockie, Dr M. P. Harris et al.).

(East Asia) All three records have been of males on Scottish islands in mid June, yet the species is apparently not uncommonly imported as a cagebird.


Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caeruka (0, 2, 1) Gloucestershire Newent, caught by cat, 9th May (per G, R. Avery, M. Smart).

(North America) This species is also apparently regularly imported as a cagebird. The records are not yet showing any pattern: singles have been recorded before in Shetland in August 1970 and in Inverness-shire in March 1972.

Appendix 2. List of records not accepted 1986 White-billed Diver Foula, Shetland, 18th June. Wandering Albatross Montrose Basin, Tayside, 2nd December. Albatross South Stack, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 27th July. Manx Shearwater yelkouan, Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, 3rd September. Little ShtiTwater Troon, Strathclyde, 25th May; Barn's Ness, Lothian, 16lh June; Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, 8th September. Little Bittern Snettisham, Norfolk, 27th February. Great White Egret Cley, Norfolk, 24th June. Black Stork Layton/Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, 31st March. Canada Goose ocadentalis, Cuckmere Haven, East Sussex, 29th October. American Wigeon Thrapston Gravel-pits, Northamptonshire, 1st to 5th February. Blue-winged Teal Welney, Norfolk, 12th November. Ring-necked Duck Stock's Reservoir, Lancashire, 17th August; Loe Pool, Cornwall, 22nd December. Steller's Eider Borve Point, Barra, Western Isles, 16th October. Common Scoter americana, Holme, Norfolk, 24th August. Black Kite Slapton Ley, Devon, 29th April; Bredon Hill, Hereford & Worcester, 15th May; Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, 19th May; Bressay, Shetland, 29th May; Calderdale, West Yorkshire, 3rd August; Worsborough Reservoir, South Yorkshire, 17th December. Buzzard vulpinus, Prawle Point, Devon, two, 25th September. Lesser Kestrel Seaford Head, East Sussex, 15th April; Burton Constable, Humberside, 1st May. Red-footed Falcon Radipole, Dorset, 17th April; Carnoustie, Tayside, 27th August. Lanner Exminster Marshes, Devon, 16th April. Gyrfalcon Princetown, Devon, 11th January; Balerno, Lothian, 25th January; Loch Spelve, Mull, Strathclyde, 13th June. Crane Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, 1st April; Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, 21st April. American Golden Plover Balivanich, Western Isles, 25th January. Western Sandpiper Martin Mere, Lancashire, 9th July, 4th to 5th August. White-rumped Sandpiper Pegwell Bay, Kent, 10th March; Cramond, Lothian, 7th September. Great Snipe Baglan Bay, West Glamorgan, 3rd January; Wells, Norfolk, 21st February; Broadway, Hereford & Worcester, 17th March. Dowitcher Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, 13th September. Marsh Sandpiper Cuckmere Haven, East Sussex, 2nd August; Fremington, Devon, 10th October. Terek Sandpiper Pagham Harbour, West Sussex, 24th August; Clevedon, Avon, 18th September. Wilson's Phalarope Aberlady Bay, Lothian, 14th June. Laughing Gull Felixstowe, Suffolk, 3rd January; Lymington River, Hampshire, 27th January. Bonaparte's Gull Aberdare, Mid Glamorgan, 8th May; Pennington Flash, Greater Manchester, 22nd November. Slender-billed Gull Christchurch Harbour, Dorset, 3rd January; Cuerdley Marshes, Cheshire, 3rd June. Ring-billed Gull Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, South Glamorgan, 8th January; Beddmenarch Bay, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 24th January; Stoke Orchard, Gloucestershire, 7th February; Great Sankey, Cheshire, 22nd February; Mehai Bridge area, Gwynedd, 31st March; Cuckmere Haven, East Sussex, 15th April; Aberystwyth, Dyfed, 21st April; Hayle, Cornwall, 16th May; Sand Point and Weston-super-Mare, Avon, 15th and 26th June; Cemlyn Bay, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 24th June; Seaforth, Merseyside, 11th October; Bridgend, May,- Strathclyde, 13th October; Pegwell Bay, Kent, 7th November. Gull-billed Tern Selsey Bill, West Sussex, 11th May; Skidbrook and Donna Nook, Lincolnshire, 24th June; Hauxley, Northumberland, 14th September. Caspian Tern Thrapston Gravel-pits, Northamptonshire, 3rd May. Aleutian Tern Hickling, Norfolk, 22nd to 24th June. Forster's Tern Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, 13th July; Cley, Norfolk, 23rd October. Whiskered Tern Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, two, 3rd August. Scops Owl Crosby, Merseyside, 18th to 21st April. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Looe, Cornwall, 17th May. Short-toed Lark West High Down, Isle of Wight, 24th May; Titchwell, Norfolk, 12th


August; Fair fsfe, Shetland, 27th September. Olive-backed Pipit Saltash, Cornwall, 24th December, Red-throated Pipit Portland, Dorset, 17th April; Fair isle, Shetland, 6th November. Citrine Wagtail Sumburgh Head and Pool of Virkie, Shetland, two, 21st September. Alpine Accentor Seaford Head, East Sussex, two, 15th April; St Mary's, Scilly, 13th October. Stonechat maum/stejnegeri, Farlington Marsh, Hampshire, 25th March. Pied Stonechat Horsey, Norfolk, 15th October. Black-eared Wheatear Prawie Point, Devon, 25th September. Black Wheatear Bracknell, Berkshire, 21st January. Rock Thrush Croggan, Mull, Strathclyde, 15th to 19th June. White's Thrush Richmond-upon-Thames, Greater London, 7th July. Veery Boscastle, Cornwall, 24th October. Eye-browed Thrush Edinburgh, Lothian, 26th January. Lanceolated Warbler Tresco, Scilly, 16th September. Great Reed Warbler North Cotes, Lincolnshire, 31st July; Pagham Harbour, West Sussex, 2nd October. Booted Warbler Tresco, Scilly, 14th September. Spectacled Warbler Cot Valley, Cornwall, 28th, 31st August. Subalpine Warbler Ashtead, Surrey, two, 14th September. Greenish Warbler Felixstowe, Suffolk, 23rd August; Wick River, Highland, 13th September. Pallas's Warbler Harbertonford, Devon, 20th January; Oil Platform Forties Delta, North Sea, 26th September. Dusky Warbler I,ake Vyrnwy, Powys, 28th May. Bonelli's Warbler Salcombe, Devon, 4th May. Collared Flycatcher Aberporth, Dyfed, 24th April. Isabelline Shrike Hookwood Surrey/West Sussex, 21st September. Nutcracker Bearshank Wood, Northamptonshire, 26th February; Newmarket Heath, Suffolk, 14th December. Rose-coloured Starling Chapel-en-le-Frith, Derbyshire, 15th February; Belvide Reservoir, Staffordshire, 26th May. Philadelphia Vireo Hastings, East Sussex, 31st August. Arctic Redpoll Beddington Park, Greater London, 19th February; Burnham Norton, Norfolk, two, 1st March; Castlebay, Barra, Western Isles, 22nd October; North Gunton, Suffolk, 2nd November. Parrot Crossbill Bearshank Wood, Northamptonshire, 26th February. Trumpeter Finch Titsey, Surrey, January. Pine Grosbeak Chipping Camden, Gloucestershire, 7th March. Song Sparrow Libberton, Strathclyde, 18th July. White-throated Sparrow Wirswall, Cheshire, 20th July. Little Bunting Little Pax ton, Cambridgeshire, 22nd March; Charmouth, Dorset, 12th April; Harrold Country Park, Bedfordshire, 3rd May; Kinneil Kerse, Central Region, three, 27th September; Fair Isle, Shetland, 11th October; Powderham, Devon, 12th October; St Abb's Head, Borders, 18th October; St Mary's, Scilly, 20th October. Black-headed Bunting Buttermere, Cumbria, 4th July; Seaford, East Sussex, 4th October.

1985 Surf Scoter St Andrew's, Fife, 9> 8th January. Black Kite Llandudno, Gwynedd, 12th August. Red-footed Falcon Sutton Bingham Reservoir, Somerset, 5th July; Lerwick, Shetland, 12th July. Eleonora's Falcon Whiteness, Shetland, 20th August. Gyrfalcon Stanpit Marsh, Dorset, 27th March; Spynie Loch, Grampian, 18th December. Crane Rutland Water, Leicestershire, two, 5th May. White-rumped Sandpiper Severn Beach, Avon, 17th November. Broad-billed Sandpiper Breydon Water, Norfolk, third individual, 17th May. Great Snipe St Mary's, Scilly, 28th to 29th October. Short-billed Dowitcher Alton Water, Suffolk, 27th October to 1 st November. Laughing Gull Potteric Carr, South Yorkshire, 14th August; Gatewarth tip, Cheshire, 21st December. Bonaparte's Gull Formby, Lancashire, 10th August. Slender-billed Gull Carmel Head, Gwynedd, 31st August. Ring-billed Gull Sutton Bingham Reservoir, Somerset, 10th January; another, 19th January; Lerwick, Shetland, 19th February; Tingwall Valley, Shetland, 16th May; Roath Park Lake, South Glamorgan, 17th December. Ross's Gull Chew Valley Lake, Avon, 3rd March. Royal Tern Tonfanau, Gwynedd, 15th September. White-winged Black Tern Fairburn Ings, North/West Yorkshire, 18th August. Yellow-billed Cuckoo New Haw, Surrey, 11th October. Bee-eater Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, 15th July. Red-rumped Swallow Prawie Point, Devon, 5th October. Red-throated Pipit Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 19th May; Nacton Fen, Lincolnshire, 27th May; Havergate, Suffolk, 1 l.th to 15th September. Greenish Warbler Hengistbury Head, Dorset, second individual, 8th October; Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire, 30th October. Pallas's Warbler Foreness, Kent, 30th September. Bonelli's Warbler St Leonards's, East Sussex, 11th August. Isabelline Shrike Portland, Dorset, 25th July. Woodchat Shrike Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, 14th June. Arctic Redpoll Knaresbor-ough, North Yorkshire, 25th April; Spurn, Humberside, 20th to 21st November; 21st to 22nd November; 21st to 27th November. Little Bunting Porthgwarra, Cornwall, 5th October;

Rare birds in Great Britain in 1986 571 Hengistbury Head, Dorset, 14th October; Southfield Reservoir, South Yorkshire, 23rd November; New Hythe, Kent, 31st December.

1984

Night Heron Cardigan Wharf, Dyfed, two, 15th August. Great Snipe Fair Isie, Shetland, 21st May; second individual, 24th September. Long-billed Dowitcher Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, South Glamorgan, 11th November. Solitary Sandpiper Sutton Bingham Reservoir, Somerset, 5th October. Franklin's Gull Martin Mere, Lancashire, 10th February. Ring-billed Gull Sutton Bingham Reservoir, Somerset, 20th March; 25th and 30th November. Gull-billed Tern Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 31st July. Roller Ingoidsby, Lincolnshire, 14th June. Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 18th September. Olivaceous Warbler Slapton Ley, Devon, 6th October. Booted Warbler Landguard, Suffolk, 1st to 2nd October. Arctic Redpoll Quendale, Shetland, 4th November; Hunstanton, Norfolk, 7th November; Holkham Meals, Norfolk, 9lh November; Holy Island, Northumberland, 10th November; Scousburgh, Shetland, 15th November. Two-barred Crossbill Wyre Forest, Hereford & Worcester, 31st March. Little Bunting Porthgwarra, Cornwall, 14th October,

1983 Black Stork Benfleet Marsh, Essex, 23rd May. Bee-eater Thetford, Norfolk, 15th May. Thrush Nightingale Bamburgh, Northumberland, 27th May. White's Thrush Canterbury, Kent, 11th November. Great Reed Warbler Marshside, Merseyside, 25th May. Pallas's Warbler Kirkhant, Lancashire, 29th April. Parrot Crossbill Tulloch, Highland, three, 11th April. Northern Oriole Thetford, Norfolk, 18th May.

1982 Pied-billed Grebe Longtown, Cumbria, 18th September. Baird's Sandpiper Castle Howard Lake, North Yorkshire, 15th May. Buff-breasted Sandpiper Balranald, Western Isles, 18th September. Great Snipe Thrapston Gravel-pits, Northamptonshire, 5th to 11th April. Bonaparte's Gull Ynys-hir, Dyfed, 21st November. Pallas's Warbler Prior's Park, Tyne & Wear, 13lh October. Lesser Grey Shrike Farcet, Cambridgeshire, 16th May. Two-barred Crossbill Bovington Camp, Dorset, 20th June.

1981 American Wigeon Gibraltar Point, Lincolnshire, 11th to 16th May.

1980 Sociable Plover Worlington, Suffolk, 16th to 22nd May. Red-throated Pipit Holme, Norfolk, 28th October. Bonelli's Warbler Weybourne, Norfolk, 2nd September. Two-barred Crossbill Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire, 26th January; Haldon, Devon, 17th February.

1979 Gull-billed Tern Saundersfoot, Dyfed, 27th August. Two-barred Crossbill Clatteringshaws Loch, Dumfries & Galloway, 10th February; Thirlmere, Cumbria, 10th August; Canterbury, Kent, 16th December; Henley, West Sussex, 26th D'ecember,

1961 Arctic Redpoll Warrington, Cheshire (formerly Lancashire), three or four, 18th November.

M. J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, Towednack, Cornwall TR26 3AZ

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