No 487 Winter 2017

Photograph - Reed Warbler - Peter LichfieldThis front page is sponsored by The Birder’s Store, Worcester

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WMBC News Is published in March, June, September and December each year to link members with each other, what’s been happening, current issues and forthcoming events on the birding scene in our area and further afield together with a selection of your articles and a comprehensive summary of the recorded bird sightings in our area

Along with this issue of your Newsletter you will find the slip to renew your membership for 2018.Michael gives full details regarding renewal on the page opposite. My aim in raising it here is to alert so that the slip doesn’t get discarded with the envelope.

Back in 1992, our Stafford Branch, under the leadership of their then Chairman Frank Gribble, carried out the first Cannock Chase Bird Survey. The aim of that first survey was to identify those bird species present and quantify their populations in each sector surveyed. The intention was then to repeat this survey every five years and compare the findings with previous surveys to identify any changes and trends. This laudable ambition has been maintained and 2017 saw the 6th survey in the series carried out under the leadership of Stafford Branch Member and WMBC Deputy Chairman, Roger Broadbent.

After months of planning the field work began in February and finished in late July. Since then Roger has worked, seemingly endlessly, to analyse the current findings, compare them with past surveys and produce the 2017 report, a mammoth task! Roger would want me to make clear that this would have been impossible without all those who volunteered to help and take part in whatever capacity but it is his tireless efforts that have ensured that everyone involved can take a real pride in the final outcome. A copy of the 2017 Cannock Chase Bird Survey is enclosed in this mailing and I am sure everyone will agree that it is a wonderful piece of work.

I wonder if the original survey team really believed that the current Branch Committee and their volunteers would still be carrying out this vital research 25 years later. You’ve all ‘done Frank proud’.

SueIn this issue

Page 3 Membership Matters - Michael BevanPage 4-5 Pioneering work at Ladywalk - Richard J KingPage 6 Little v Large - work at our Harborne ReservePage 6 Gailey Hide updatePage 7 Blithfield Reserve - Grant for removal of Rhododendrons - Jerry RayPage 7 British Longevity Record for Blithfield GoldcrestPage 8-9 Thermal Imaging and Birding - The Story so far - Colin McShanePage 10 Our Quiz - Spot the Bird - Peter Lewis (continued on pages 15,18 and 20)Page 11 Trichomonas gallinae - David DoddPages 12-13 HS2 - What can we do? - A Member’s ViewPages 14-15 West Country Wanderings - Dave LummisPages 16-17 Tag - n - Track - Gary the GullPage 18 Barn owl Breeding Success - Roger ClayPage 19-21 Club and Branch Indoor Meetings and Field TripsPage 21 New Feature - My favourite Piece of Birding Kit ever - Sue JudgePages 22-25 Bird Notes August to October - Humphrey MillerPage 25 New Feature - Champagne Moments - Hummphrey MillerPage 25 Our Belvide Reserve - Paths Update - Sue JudgePage 26 Judith Gerrard - Thank you - Ray DaviesPages 26-28 WMBC Field Trip Reports - Ray DaviesPage 29 Editor’s Quiz - Spot the Difference - Sue JudgePage 30 Officers of WMBC and their contact details

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Membership MattersWe are pleased to welcome the following new members of the club who have joined since the last Newsletter. Please note the names shown are as on the membership form but that all family members at each address are included in this welcome.

Ms A Almond of COVENTRY, Mr K Aston of STOKE ON TRENT, Mr P Barron of WARWICK, Ms L Boon of STAFFORD, Mr R Bourne of STONE, Mr C Clements of BIRMINGHAM, Mr T Collins of BIRMINGHAM, Mr P Cox of BURTON ON TRENT, Mr R Elliott of CANNOCK, Ms S Fox of WALSALL, Mrs S Gerard of COVENTRY, Mr A Jepson of UTTOXETER, Mr P Jones of NEWCASTLE UNDER LYME, Ms T O’Hara of STAFFORD, Ms L Onions of WOLVERHAMPTON, Mr W Peplow of CANNOCK, Mr D Richards of WOLVERHAMPTON, Mr P Rowley of RUGELEY, Mr B Swallow of KENILWORTH, Mr M Temple of BIRMINGHAM, Mr K Wardlaw of WOLVERHAMPTON, Mr A Williams of TELFORD and Mr A Woodhouse of RUGELEY and Mr P Warwick of LOUGHBOROUGH.

2018 Membership Subscription Renewals

Enclosed with this newsletter is your membership renewal form for 2018.

If currently you pay by standing order and HAVE NOT CHANGED any contact details you do not need to return the form. However, if this is the case and you are NOT returning the form could you please e-mail me (e-mail address below) and if you haven’t already done so, your date of birth.

Please include your membership number, surname and postcode.

If you pay by cheque or wish to change from cheque to standing order please complete and return the form ASAP to the address below. You will note that there are two new items to complete. Membership Number and Date of Birth.

All members who have recently changed any of their details please complete and return the form. PLEASE MARK CLEARLY WHAT HAS CHANGED, otherwise the changes may be missed.

Renewals, including standing orders, are due on January 1st, the February 28th expiry date is to allow time for me to process the renewals and for all renewing members to receive their new membership cards, before the reserve entry code is changed on March 1st.

All being well 2018 cards will be distributed to those whose cheque has been received or whose bank has processed their standing order payment (as shown on WMBC bank statement) from mid-January onwards. However, problems do sometimes occur so please wait until mid-February before contacting me if you haven’t received your new card.

Note we can only deal with new standing orders. You must contact your bank to change or cancel a standing order. If you do not wish to renew your membership and currently pay by this method then you will need to cancel the standing order.

Michael BevanWMBC Membership Secretary

64 Brookfields Road, Ipstones, Stoke on Trent, ST10 2LYmembership@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

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There is an old notice in one of the hides at Ladywalk which states “Stop the Alien Invasion. Please help eradicate the Himalayan Balsam which has invaded parts of the reserve”. But rather like the line “Don’t Look Ethel, It’s Too Late” from the Ray Stevens song, The Streak, it is too late at Ladywalk to halt the Himalayan Balsam. The reserve is in danger of becoming the West Midlands capital of Himalayan Balsam as there are large areas of the plant, in effect a monoculture, with plants that can grow to over three metres crowding out all other plants. They are shallow rooted and when they die in winter they expose large areas of barren land that are easily eroded. Attempts by various working parties to pull and the kill the plants over recent years have only been partly successful. We have worked hard at pulling the plants by hand and have been able to control large flat areas inhabited by the plants with the flail mower but there are other areas too inaccessible and damp for us to become involved.

But in 2017 Ladywalk and another nearby site have become sites of pioneering work initiated by Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership (TVWLP), led by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, working closely with the Centre for Agricultural and Bioscience International (CABI). As you may have seen on Gardeners’ World in September this entails the release of rust spores, which act as a biological control agent, on to the Himalayan Balsam plants. First results of these releases are promising!

There has been close contact with scientists from CABI who have instructed us where and how to apply the rust spores which should be done in the evening on three occasions during the growing season. Where to treat plants is a key issue. There needs to be a high density of plants, so Ladywalk wins there, near water and where humidity can be high. But the spores must be released in an area which will not be submerged by floodwater for long periods.

The rust spores, which are very expensive with storage arrangements having to be managed very carefully, are mixed with water and a surfactant. The plants’ lower leaves are then sprayed with a hand sprayer. The inoculated plants are observed for four weeks for the development of rust on the lower leaves. As the plants die at the end of the year the rust enters the leaf litter in winter and reappears in the new plants the following spring, manifested as infections in the new stems. This leads to plants

PIONEERING WORK AT LADYWALKRichard J King

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having a stunted growth with less height. The rust can also be spread through the air so it is hoped that it will spread further afield and infect plants over greater distances.

CABI remain very involved in monitoring progress and supplying the rust spores. They have overseen this experimental work in 33 selected sites across the UK and prior to the site work had to acquire a license from Natural England and European Botanical Agencies. The necessary permissions for our pioneering work were also successfully secured from Eon, owners of the Ladywalk land, and the WMBC executive. The main question at the Executive meeting was the effect that this work would have on bees. Bees appear to love the nectar of these plants but we were informed that the rust fungus will not lead to the total eradication of the Himalayan Balsam but a reduction in the number and density of these plants. This means that native plants will return enabling bees to cross pollinate them rather than operating in a Himalayan Balsam “monoculture”.

The original releases nationwide of the rust fungus were strictly controlled with Himalayan Balsam plants being grown independently and inoculated with the rust fungus before being “planted” in areas of high Himalayan Balsam density that met the environmental criteria for such experiments. These rust releases over the last two years have aided knowledge on when best to administer the rust as in previous years they were first done in May when temperatures were too low.

Additionally we needed to release the correct rust as Himalayan Balsam has a wide range in the Himalayas - there are Indian and Pakistani populations requiring different rust strains! So before any releases seeds from the Ladywalks plants had to be collected, sent to CABI and analysed.

So Ladywalk and the WMBC are benefitting from the work done elsewhere by the CABI scientists. The rust fungus is in place and first impressions are that it is having an effect. Next year we will see the real benefits of our releases and we hope to see areas where there is a lower density of plants. It will be interesting to see how the effects will spread across the reserve, even downstream. We will keep you informed and will be looking for volunteers to help monitor the effects!

We are grateful to Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership for identifying Ladywalk as a test area, and for the associated funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as the scientists from CABI for their continuing input. 1. The rust fungus is added to water containing a surfactant which helps it adhere to the leaves 2. Shaken not stirred!

3. July 17th - 4 weeks after first spray, the spores are already showing on the leaves

Richard J KingAll photographs © Warwickshire Wildlife Trust 2017

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Little v LargeWhen Richard circulated his report to your Club’s Executive Committee he and I received this feedback from Paul Bateman the manager of our Harborne reserve.

Hello Sue and Richard, this is a subject close to my heart. At Harborne we have been trying to control Himalayan Balsam with some success for over 20  years at zero cost, but complete eradication appears to be impossible. Without our efforts this whole area would have been swamped by now.  

During the growing season our work parties will attack it  by removing the flower heads before the seed pods have formed and will then pull up the whole plant with as much root as possible. A headless plant will obviously develop new flowers if left in the ground. Once pulled any plant  left lying on the ground  will re-root itself so it must be hung up on a tree branch or fence to die . If the plants are hung up with formed seed pods, there is enough energy in the plant to cause the pods to develop and explode. 

These plants often grow in inaccessible places, along watercourses and amongst brambles and nettles etc so wellington boots, PPE and possibly waders will need to be worn. On steep embankments personnel involved in control may need to wear a harness with a safety line attached to them and this needs to borne in mind when applying this rust-based pathogen.

Paul Bateman

New West Midland Bird Club Hide at Gailey ReservoirTuesday 14th November 2017 became a red letter day for the regular birders at Gailey when their patience was rewarded with the installation of a hide. This facility will also be appreciated by those who currently avoid Gailey because of the lack of shelter and those who like to bird whilst walking their dogs as, unlike at nearby Belvide where dogs are prohibited, there is no restriction at Gailey to dogs on leads. If you are new to Gailey you will find information on our Club website, on the Belvide page. This includes a map, access details and a ‘Local Patch Birding’ article. For further information on parking contact gailey@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

This Hide is an example of your Club’s executive committee responding to the requests of our members. If you have a scheme you think should be considered for funding please see further information on page 9 regarding how to apply .

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Grant for removal of Rhododendron for Blithfieldfrom Jerry Ray - 4th October 2017

South Staffs Water PLC has been working jointly with the Woodland Trust to make an application for a grant to remove rhododendron at Blithfield. This application has been successful and contractors will be in later this month to complete the work.

Rhododendron is extremely invasive and has taken over a large part of the Duckley’s woodland. It creates acidic conditions in which native plants cannot survive and trees struggle to regenerate amongst it. By removing the rhododendron, native species will be able to return, thereby bringing the woodland back into its natural state which will increase the biodiversity of species.

For further evidence of why this work is so important see the amazing record below.

British longevity record for Blithfield GoldcrestA ringing recovery of a male Goldcrest made by Dave Clifton at the Duckley Plantation, Blithfield Reservoir, has now been confirmed by the BTO as being the oldest (longest living) bird of this species on record in the British Isles.

Details are: First year male Goldcrest - First caught by ringer Dave Clifton on 15/10/2011 at: Duckley Plantation: 52°48’N - 1°54’W (Staffordshire) Then recaught by ringer Dave Clifton on 27/11/2016 at: Duckley Plantation: 52°48’N - 1°54’W (Staffordshire)

Movement 0 km - age at re-trap 5 years, 1 month, 12 days. To arrive at an approximate true age we can add a further few months, possibly three and a half or five, to the above age, depending upon whether this bird was fledged from the first or second of two broods. This is a remarkable record.

Congratulations to Dave for his expertise and dedication to British bird study carried out here in the

West Midland Bird Club region

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Thermal Imaging and BirdingThe story so farColin McShane

In the Spring of 2016, Brewood Ringing Group lodged a bid with the WMBC  asking the club to purchase a thermal imaging camera. We were delighted and obviously very grateful that the club agreed, with the caveat that we would explore various uses as well as involve the wider ringing and birding community of the WMBC area.

Brewood Ringers’ original intention was to use the thermal imaging camera to find and ring Lapwing chicks around the West Midlands. It has proved extremely successful in this respect - but as we have explored its potential so many different avenues are opening up. The foresight of your committee in buying the equipment is beginning to pay off as we are leading the way on a range of bird conservation related projects using the thermal imaging device. Here are just a few:-

We quickly became aware that we were able to scan fields at night and spot wildlife - foxes, badgers, mice, deer – and birds! Over the ensuing months we have become skilled at identifying most of the birds we see from the bright white ‘blob’ of light seen on the imager. This has enabled us not only to count the birds we see but also to use the imager to home in on individual birds and very efficiently net them for ringing. We are already revolutionising current knowledge of which species there are out there, but also increasingly working with local farmers to identify the links between their farming practices and the birds they can attract.

Some members may have seen the piece on Skylarks on Midlands Today recently. Lots of detail was lost in editing (including mention of WMBC), but it did illustrate how this technique is enabling us to start to find out lots more about this species because of our ability to ring nationally important numbers of them. We are receiving enquiries from all over the UK and Europe - which is precisely what we want in order for other groups to do the same and build up a more comprehensive database on this red-listed species, than we currently have.

Last winter we were able to provide Cannock Chase District Council with some comprehensive data on numbers of Jack Snipe and Common Snipe both ringed and seen on one of their sites which they are specifically managing for these species. This will help their future management programme.

During the summer of 2017, we trialled the imager in a couple of new ways. We found that we could very easily see if nest boxes were occupied by the white glow from the entrance hole - even during daylight hours. This has been used by a couple of nest box schemes to quickly monitor occupancy thus saving lots of time and effort lugging heavy ladders around their sites.

We extended this application at a local Sand Martin colony. Again, even during daylight hours we have for the first time been able to accurately count the number of occupied nest holes which will enable us to monitor uptake on a regular annual basis, something that is incredibly difficult to do any other way.

One local farmer in particular, has been very grateful for our work in counting and ringing the Grey Partridge on his land. He is very keen to encourage this species but didn’t really know how successful his work was—until we were able to sample count some of his fields. He has never counted more than 3 individuals at once in any of his fields, yet on our first visit we found 11 in one field alone - thanks to the imager. (We have caught around 50 now – 5 times the 2015 total)

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Lastly for now, we are re-writing what we thought we knew about the nocturnal feeding activities of Common and Jack Snipe. We certainly had no idea until exploring the local fields at night that one of the best places for these species to feed is…..stubble fields! Jack Snipe are not numerous anyway, but we commonly find them feeding in fields, whereas Common Snipe have been counted in their dozens on some of our fields. This again gives our local farmers evidence to manage their land in a bird-friendly way - which most of them genuinely want to do.

I hope this has given members at least some insight into how their investment in the thermal imaging camera has paid useful dividends in bird conservation. Thank you

Colin McShane, Chair, Brewood Ringers, October 2017

The thermal imaging camera remains the property of the West Midland Bird Club and is kept in the safe keeping of Colin who ensures that it is put to maximum good use throughout our region. Any ringing group or member with an idea for its use should contact Colin. Contact - Colin Mcshane at jandcinbrewood@btinternet.comPurchase of this cutting edge equipment, in response to the initial suggestion from Brewood Ringers was approved by your Club’s Executive Committee as it perfectly fits in with the Aims of our Club, as laid out in our Club Rules (see below).

If you have an idea you think should be considered for funding in your area the first step is to check out if it meets any of the criteria below, as this is what is used to guide spending decisions.

The next step is to complete our official Application form to tell us all about your request and inform the executive committee’s decision. Contact newsletter@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk to request a copy.

Completed applications should be sent to Club Secretary, Mark, who will add them to the agenda of the next Executive meeting for discussion and decision.

2 Aims2.1 The aims of the Club shall be to:• advance the education of the public in the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of wild birds and wild bird study, and• promote the conservation of, and raise public and scientific awareness of, wild birds and their habitat. In furtherance of these aims, but not otherwise, the Club shall have the power to:2.1.1 Encourage and organise the study and recording of wild birds, especially in the counties ofWarwickshire, Staffordshire, The West Midlands and Worcestershire, (the Club’s Area).2.1.2 Promote the protection of wild birds, the preservation of their habitats, and provide detailed information of the value of such habitats.2.1.3 Manage or participate in habitat management.2.1.4 Provide facilities for people interested in ornithology to meet and exchange ideas and information.2.1.5 Liaise with local and national organisations in the interests of wild birds.2.1.6 Encourage the promotion of an informed body of public and scientific opinion on wild birds and their conservation.2.1.7 Publish papers and reports, such as the ‘West Midland Bird Club Annual Report’, and to record, in an appropriate form, information on all aspects of wild bird life in the Club’s area.2.1.8 Participate in national and local biological surveys.2.1.9 Do anything else which will further the aims of the Club.A full copy of our Club’s Rules can be found on our website.

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A little reminder of how Peter’s quiz works. First check out the photograph below which includes a bird which you are challenged to spot. If you are having difficulty in finding the bird there is a sketch on page 15 to help you locate it. There is a close up of the bird on page 18 but again you will have to wait until page 20 to find out if you have identified it correctly. No cheating now, after all there are no sketches in the field to help you. Clue: the photograph was taken in April but not in the UK.

Spot, then Identify, the BirdPeter Lewis

Annual change of Entrance Code at our Belvide ReserveChanging the code on the gate keypad and six hide keypads takes Belvide work party manager, Nigel, several hours (especially as there is over a mile between the Entrance

Gate and the Hawkeshutts hide). For this reason this task has to be left until the first weekend after the 1st of March,

which in 2018 will be 3rd/4th March. Over the first four days of March if the new code doesn’t work on the gate or on one of the

hides please use the old one.

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Trichomonas gallinaeDavid Dodd

Some timely information and advice from the chairman of our Stafford BranchMy involvement with this parasite was a result of my wife repeatedly telling me there was a Wood Pigeon in the garden with a lump in its throat. Later it was a Collared Dove which was suffering. All members of the pigeon and dove families have been known to suffer from Trichomonas gallinae for a some time.

Pigeons and doves seen in silhouette have a smooth curve from bill to breast. If they have a crop full of food the contour may be altered slightly at the breast end, however, birds suffering trichomonosis and nearing death show a distinct swelling approximately half way between bill and breast. It is most easily observed in doves, we have seen a lump in the throats of Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves. Once the swelling becomes obvious the infected bird ‘disappears’ within two to three days. Prior to this point the bird exhibits the normal symptoms of illness, lethargy and fluffed up feathers. Often it will wait for other birds to leave before attempting to feed itself using a strange peck followed by a flick of the head backwards.

Trichomonosis is caused by the single celled parasite Trichomonas gallinae. It settles at the back of the throat and in the gullet causing disease resulting in swelling which eventually prevents food entering the crop and air reaching the lungs. While dehydration kills the parasite, a liquid medium ensures survival; it is very infectious. Pigeons and doves feeding young clearly provide a direct infection route. Diseased birds may regurgitate food and water which allows other species to become infected. It was this mechanism which is suspected of transmitting trichomonosis to Greenfinches (2006 – 2009) causing their decline. Other finches, for example, Chaffinches, Bullfinches and even House Sparrows, can also be infected. Birds of prey eating diseased birds are subject to infection too.

There is treatment for captive birds but not wild birds in whom it is normally fatal. If you have a feeding station and see an infected bird or even an unhealthy bird attending your feeders, particularly from June to September, then the advice from Garden Wildlife Health is to stop feeding for at least two weeks. This forces the birds to disperse and, hopefully, reduces the spread of infection. Cautiously start feeding again after that period, that is, only put out small quantities. If there is further evidence of infected birds then stop feeding again for another week or two.

It may be obvious, but, cleanliness is of the utmost importance. Although this parasite does not infect humans you should always wear gloves and clean feeders outside. The cleaning procedure we have used is to soak all trays used for ground feeding in a straight from the bottle bleach solution. This does require having a container of the appropriate size. After about 20 minutes remove the tray and rinse under running water until the bleach smell has disappeared. Assuming the feeders are on a concrete or similar surface then to water the surface with a 50:50 bleach/water solution will help reduce infection. Again the surface should be washed with running water and, hopefully, allowed to dry thoroughly before feeding re-commences.For more information go to: www.gardenwildlifehealth.org

David DoddChairman, WMBC Stafford Branch

Garden Wildlife Health (GWH) specialises in Wildlife friendly gardening and best practice advice and is a collaborative project between the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), Froglife and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

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In our last Newsletter Roger, our Deputy Chairman, gave an update on his work on HS2. Some of you may have read this with a jaundiced view regarding what impact our expertise can have but the article which follows sets out to dispel that fear and galvanise us all into action. It comes from one of our members who, because of his close connection to the HS2 project needs to remain anonymous.

Thank you for the article in the Autumn 2017 issue of WMBC News – I found this to be very informative and wanted to reinforce some of the points as well as give a little more information on how we can ensure that any benefit from HS2 is maximised.

At the outset I must stress that this article is my own opinion and does not express the views or policies of HS2 or its contractors. Secondly, we are where we are, with construction of HS2 progressing, so there will be no politics, or discussion of whether the construction of HS2 is right or wrong.

I have a lifelong interest in natural history, especially birdwatching and have been a member of WMBC in my youth and latterly for the last few years. Careerwise, I have worked in the construction industry since leaving school and in the civil engineering/rail sectors for the last 15 years. My own justification for being involved in this project is to attempt to influence the way in which the project is constructed, to take into account the environmental responsibilities, but also to encourage a wider appreciation and concern for biodiversity. Construction have made great strides in the Health + Safety field – hard hats were seen as an inconvenience 30 years ago, but are now embraced; we need to make the same progress so that Great Crested Newts, bats and curlews are not seen as a pain but an opportunity to protect and improve/encourage something for the community. There is an opportunity to do this on the HS2 project, especially during the Enabling Works phase.

There are two things that we can do to improve the legacy of HS2:Firstly, we can make sure that HS2 know what is there, so that provision can be made to protect or trans-locate it, if possible. The article mentions that ecologists have missed barn owls and water shrews on a certain site. I visit RSPB Middleton Lakes numerous times per year, where there are breeding barn owls – I have never seen a barn owl at Middleton. I have probably seen 3 or 4 water shrews in my entire life. I’m trying to illustrate that ecologists are unlikely to pick up all of the species present and certainly won’t be able to match the level of knowledge of someone who has many years of experience of a particular site. For this reason it is vital that we all record our sightings and forward these to the relevant repositories (NBN, county recorders, etc) – as if this information is available it can be incorporated into plans and designs; if we keep quiet, no mitigation will even be considered. It would be terrible to lose populations because we didn’t shout up! This also applies to our knowledge of species requirements, such as the curlews in the article – if we make HS2 aware, we may be early enough to incorporate these requirements into the final scheme. Please don’t think

HS2 What can we Do?

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that this will be a pointless exercise, as there are many people involved with HS2 who are committed to maximising the ecological benefit to be gained from this project. However, there is a caveat – we must ensure that this information is accurate as verification of the presence (or not) of protected species will cost time and money. If too many records prove to be a ‘wild goose chase’, the use of local records will lose credibility and value, possibly resulting in true records being ignored. Also, costs of trying to verify bogus reports will impact the amount of money which will be available for mitigation projects.

Secondly we can engage with HS2 around the nature of mitigation sites which are to be constructed. HS2 will be constructing newt ponds, woodlands, badger setts, otter holts, Kingfisher banks, hibernacula, basking banks, bat barns, etc to mitigate for lost habitat. Are we able to offer suggestions or expertise in how these can be maximised for other wildlife? Can we suggest species specific initiatives which could be applied across the route – e.g. are we able to halt the decline of Corn and other buntings by ensuring that all hedgerows are edged with a seed rich border?

However we feel about HS2, we can + must improve its legacy for future generations by making sure that nothing is lost because HS2 just weren’t aware of its existence and that we take every opportunity to improve what is being created as part of the project.

Quote in response from our Deputy Chairman.This member should be thanked for his support of our request for members to submit what records they have especially if they envisage a threat from HS2 or any other development for that matter.

Sometime ago HS2 Ltd asked for a licence to access the Staffordshire bird records for 2014/15. The licence was drafted by the Club and records were provided, for which HS2 paid a substantial sum into the Club’s Conservation Fund. There were however some areas along the route where there are still gaps in information and the need for records to be submitted to County Recorders still exists so that mitigation measures may be considered.

In the case of the Curlews at Ingestre, HS2 are considering a significant new wetland area which the Company feel will benefit Curlews and other waders. That measure, as good as it sounds, however, falls short of providing a like for like Curlew breeding area. Given the fact that so many of our breeding birds are in decline the Club favours developments only when suitable mitigation measures are put in place that will mitigate for the loss of breeding bird habitat . Roger 

News from your Executive CommitteeWe are pleased to report that Rob Swift has been appointed as our Club’s new Press Officer.

Rob has been co-opted onto the executive committee with immediate effect.

Our Club is is nearly Ninety!November 2019 will mark the 90th Anniversary of the start of this wonderful club of ours.

Although this date is still nearly two year’s away your committee is already considering how this remarkable milestone should be celebrated and your suggestions are requested.

Please send your ideas to Club Secretary, Mark, at secretary@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk orby post to his address (see page 38)

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WEST COUNTRY WANDERINGSIt started with a conversation with one of our RSPB committee members (I normally organise a trip for us each year). I asked him where he’d like to go this year and he said how about the Great Bustard project? This tied in nicely with my wife’s wish to visit Dartmoor, so we had the beginnings of an itinerary. I firmed this up into a 5-night trip, starting with the great bustards and Stonehenge (too close to miss!) and then onto Devon, via the Avalon marshes.

Thursday 18th MayAfter picking everyone up, nine of us headed down the motorway and on towards Salisbury Plain, where the Bustard re-introduction area lies next to the MOD live firing range. Visits to the project have to be booked in advance and cost £15 per person; details can be found on their website www.greatbustard.org. We met Linda, our guide, at the appointed car park and all transferred to her Land Rover, to drive to the site. Once in the hide, Linda quickly spotted and pointed out a male Great Bustard, sitting in the field opposite. Over the course of the time we were in the hide, the Bustard got up and walked closer to us, before sitting down again.

The site isn’t just for Bustards though, the project maintains areas of the site for Stone Curlews, giving excellent views of these rare birds. We also saw Wheatear, Stonechat, Grey and Red legged Partridges. As we were leaving the hide, another male Bustard flew across behind the vehicle. On the drive away from the site, we had superb close-up views of Corn Bunting, sitting on the fence. Not a bad start to our trip! After bidding farewell to Linda, we headed off to Stonehenge, which most of the group hadn’t visited before. It is a most impressive site and also holds Corn Buntings! We then drove to our overnight stop in Glastonbury.

Friday 19th MayNext morning, we headed off to Ham Wall RSPB and the adjacent reserves of the Avalon marshes complex. This area seems to get better with every visit and we weren’t disappointed this time! We had excellent close-up views of several Great White Egrets in breeding plumage, Bitterns in the air and on the ground, Glossy Ibis, Little Egret and a fly-past Cattle Egret. We also saw lots of warblers, with close-up views of Cetti’s and also Bearded Tit. After a fantastic day, we left and drove down to Exeter, our base for the next 4 nights.

Saturday 20th MayOne of our main targets for Devon was Cirl Bunting, so next morning we headed to RSPB Labrador Bay. The first birds to greet us in the car park were singing Dunnock and Common Whitethroat. I then heard a Cirl Bunting singing below us; after a short walk across the meadow, we saw a pair of Cirl Buntings, feeding on the path and grass edges. Happy to have seen good views of the buntings, we moved on to Berry Head. A walk around the head produced sightings of lots of House Martins and Swallows, Skylarks and Meadow Pipits. On the sea was a solitary Razorbill and the breeding cliffs held Guillemots, Kittiwakes and Shags. Several Gannets flew past the headland.

We then made our way back to Exeter, stopping at Powderham on the way, where a Slavonian Grebe had been reported. After carefully crossing the main railway line, we set up ‘scopes to see the superb Grebe, in breeding plumage. Pleased with our day, we headed back to the hotel.

Sunday 21st MayNext morning, we decided to head for a valley on eastern Dartmoor, where a Great grey Shrike had been in residence for a while. We parked and made our way across the moor, getting good views of Stonechat and Meadow Pipit. We descended into the valley, with Ravens circling and calling overhead. As we made our way along the valley, we saw two Whinchats and then met a local birder, who had seen the Shrike earlier and was waiting for it to reappear. Soon it did, showing well on the hillside just above us - another great bird!

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After watching the Shrike for a while, we made our way back up the car park and moved on to Yarner Woods, on the edge of Dartmoor. This reserve is mainly oak woodland, with the expected species of that habitat. What was not expected, however, was the Mandarin family on the pond next to the car park! Feeders there had a range of common species and also Marsh Tit. We set off around the reserve, seeing numbers of Tree Pipit, Redstart and Pied Flycatcher.

Halfway round the trail, my wife and another member of the group decided to take a short cut back to the car park, whilst the rest of us continued on, hoping to see Wood Warbler. Perhaps we should have turned back as well, since we didn’t see any Wood Warblers but they saw a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker! I’ve just about forgiven my wife for this grip-off! After a couple of abortive attempts to find Dartford Warblers at sites nearby, we decided to call it a day and headed back to Exeter.

Monday 22nd MayFor our last full day, we headed east to RSPB Aylesbeare Common. Soon after starting down the path, we came across a pair of Stonechats and, further on our first Dartford. We carried on round the site but, despite the sunny weather, saw very few butterflies or dragonflies. This perhaps also explained the absence of Hobbies. On the way back to the car park, however, we did find another pair of Dartford Warblers.

Next we headed off to Bowling Green marsh, calling in at Dart Farm on the way for ice-creams and retail opportunities. From the hide at Bowling Green, we were to lucky to be able to compare, side by side, Curlew and Whimbrel and bar- and black- tailed Godwits. We also saw Dunlin and Ringed Plovers, with a selection of ducks, making a good end to our trip. We returned to our hotel for the last night, happy with our total of over a hundred species, to pack in readiness for the journey home.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Great Bustard project to any birders - not only Bustards but also a good range of excellent birds.

Dave Lummis Burton & South Derbyshire RSPB group

If you would like to join Dave on a future excursion his contact details are on the groups website at www.basd-rspb.co.uk

William E. Beckwith’s Nineteenth century Birds of Shropshire with notes on surrounding districts.

John & Peter Tucker.Publication of this new volume was expected in November 2017. Google the name of the book for more details and an order form.

Peter’s sketch to help you located our quiz bird

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Tag-n-Track: A public engagement project

promoting Lesser Black-backed GullsTag-n-Track (TnT) is using the latest technology to track birds locally and globally. This project is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Renfrewshire and Inverclyde LEADER & Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and started on the 9th of January. It will run for the next two years. The project has tagged 12 Lesser Black-backed Gulls with solar-powered Global Satellite Monitoring (GSM) tags fitted to the birds with harnesses which collect data between 10-15 times a day. TnT is a public engagement project and aims to change the views of the public about this much maligned species. We are doing this by hosting events, posting on social media and delivering a series of school workshops to 4,500 pupils. On top of this we are encouraging people to sponsor a gull to help support the project. Details about all the gulls can be found at www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/things-to-do/widlife/tag-n-track/teamgull/ and our Facebook page is www.facebook.com/TagnTrack

Gary the GullGary is an adult male Lesser Black-backed Gull.  He and his mate nested on the roof of Greenock Police Station and he was our second gull to be tagged on the 18th of May 2017. This year he had three eggs and the chicks hatched out on the 31st of May. However, during our weekly breeding monitoring checks his nest, which was in one of the roof drainage channels, was found to have been moved by heavy rainfall and there was no sign of the chicks. Chicks are very good at hiding and when we returned a week later we found two chicks within the vicinity of the nest. 

At the time of tagging Gary weighed 845g and has a wing length of 39.3cm. He wears a white colour ring with red writing (9P5:C) on his left leg, which helps to identify him in the field. Gary was named by St Joseph’s Primary School in Greenock. Gary raised two chicks to fledging and both of them have now been colour ringed as well.

On the 29th of July Gary started to move south and spent most of the day foraging around the Beith/Lugton area before moving to the Stewarton area in the early hours of the 30th. At 1545 on the same day he was recorded foraging in fields outside Kilmarnock

before spending the evening foraging in fields outside Mauchline. From 2100 on the 30th till 0300 on the 31st he slept on the roof of a wood works just outside Cumnock before heading further south

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again. He spent the morning following the route of the A76 and along the A75 and from 1300 till 2020 he was around the River Esk/Solway Firth area.  He continued to follow the road network down the M6 to Penrith where he spent two days just on the border of the Lake District National Park near Askham.  On the 3rd of August Gary was off again and flew over the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Peak District National Park.  He arrived in the area surrounding Burton upon Trent and has spent a few days foraging in the local area.  On the 12th of August he then moved west of Burton upon Trent and now favours Grindley and the surrounding area.  He has taken to roosting on Blithfield Reservoir where he returns each night.

If you spot Gary then please let me know at tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk

Hayley Douglas

Tag-n-Track Project Officer

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2017 - A great year for breeding Barn OwlsBelvide Management Team member Roger Clay is a Ringer with a particular interest in Barn Owls. Roger reports that this year’s breeding season has been a very successful one for this much loved species. However this, in itself, creates a problem. Where can these newly fledged birds disperse to and find shelter?

Roger seeks permission from landowners where he sees a suitable site for a new nest box and then not only builds and installs the box but also maintains it, making the appropriate number of visits during the year including one to ring the chicks. All this is done entirely at his own expense including providing the box. Roger will be writing an article for our next newsletter.

In the meantime if you know of a suitable site for a new box that you would like to suggest to Roger email me at newsletter@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk and I will pass on your request.

Close up of our quiz bird

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WMBC FIELD TRIPSPlease note: All WMBC members and their families are welcome to join all WMBC field trips and attend any Branch indoor meetings or field trips.

Coaches depart from Cambridge Street, Birmingham City Centre, promptly at the time stated. Food and drink should be brought as required. Appropriate clothing and footwear to guard against the elements is recommended.

Contact: Ray Davies To book or for further information please contact Ray on 0121 682 4375 or 07762 061603wmbcfieldtrips.ray@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk Please Note: the coach can become fully booked (48 is possible) but non arrivals on the day can prevent those on a waiting list the chance to enjoy the day. Could members please contact Ray, however late, if they have to cancel their booking. On Sunday morning ring Ray’s mobile: 07762 061603 with any delays or late cancellations, Thank you.

Sunday 7th January 2018 Rutland WaterDepart: 07:00hrs. Expected return: 18:30hrs. Cost: £20Prime inland reservoir with lagoons, marshy margins, fields and woodland to provide a wide range of species to start the year. The cost includes reserve entrance fee.

Sunday 4th February 2018 Old Moor RSPBDepart: 08:00hrs. Expected return: 19:00hrs. Cost: £18Old Moor RSPB is a reserve in South Yorkshire with reedbeds, pools of various characters, some scrub areas and feeding stations. It promises wildfowl, waders, possible Bearded Tit as well as Tit family with Willow Tit, winter thrushes and buntings. There is a charge for RSPB non-members so be sure to bring your RSPB membership card.

Sunday 11th March 2018 Forest of DeanDepart: 07:00hrs Expected return: 19:00rs. Cost: £17The regular visit to this Gloucestershire site at the time of peak activity offering prospect of displaying Goshawk, finding Hawfinch, Dipper and Crossbill, admiring spectacular Mandarin and what chance of Great Grey Shrike again?

Friday 16 March 2018Devon Weekend We stay at the Langstone Cliff Hotel at Dawlish Warren for our annual Devon adventure.

The cost is £72.00 per person per night for half board (complimentary drink before dinner) for those sharing a room and £85 for singles.Travel by own transport to meet at 18.30hrs for dinner at 19.00pm. Centred at Dawlish Warren we will search for local specialities and lingering wintering species, as well as the first summer migrants and rarities that may be present.

A deposit of £20 (non refundable) per person is required by the hotel to confirm your booking. Please call Ray to assess availability and then provide this payment by cheque made out to West Midland Bird Club (WMBC) and sent to Ray Davies at ‘140 Bradbury Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B92 8AL’ - to confirm YOUR booking. We settle the remainder of our own bills at the Hotel on departure.

Sunday 22nd April 2018 Woolston Eyes/Burton Mere Wetlands RSPBDepart: 08:00hrs Expected return: 019.30hrs Cost: £21As ever we expect the spectacle of breeding Black Necked Grebe at Woolston along with some migrant warblers! The return to now renowned Burton Mere promises woodland birds, waders, migrant species such as Wheatear and Yellow Wagtail,and Egrets including Cattle Egret that bred here in 2017. Be sure to remember your RSPB card as there is a charge for nonmembers.

Club and BranchIndoor Meetings and Field Trips

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Sunday 13th May 2018 Ynys-Hir RSPB Nature ReserveDepart: 07:00hrs Expected return: 19:00hrs Cost: £21This prime attractive reserve in mid-Wales should yield Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart with possible Tree Pipit and Red Kite as well as other summer migrant warblers. Coastal birds add to the interest. Remember your RSPB card as there is a charge for non-members.

Sunday 10th June 2018 Bempton Cliffs / Blacktoft SandsDepart: 07:00hrs Expected return: 19:00hrsCost: £23The spectacular cliffs at Bempton RSPB offer close views of Gannet, Kittiwake, Puffin, Guillemot and Razorbill. Enjoy the NEW Visitor Centre. Blacktoft offers estuary reserve good for waders, rarities, Bearded Tit, and raptors - most likely Marsh Harrier and hopefully Montagu’s harrier. Remember your RSPB card, there is a charge for non-members.

SOLIHULL BRANCHBranch contact On 0121 705 8507Email: solihull@westmidlandbirdclub.org.ukPlease NoteThe meeting on 9th March 2018 will be preceded by the branch Annual General Meeting. As previously notified, all committee members (Humphrey Miller, Raymond Brown and Anthony Reynolds) will be standing down. Nominations for new committee members should be sent to the branch Secretary, Raymond Brown, The Spinney, 63 Grange Road, Dorridge, Solihull, West Midlands B93 8QS, or to any other committee member, at least two weeks before the date of the meeting.The continuing existence of the branch after March 2018 is dependent upon a minimum of two members being willing to form a new committee.

Indoor meetingsIndoor meetings are held in the Guild House, Knowle B93 0LN, commencing at 19:30hrsAdmission: WMBC members £2.00, nonmembers £2.50.Please note: Access from the eastern car park via the churchyard is unlit and those who are not confident about their night vision should either bring a torch or take the slightly longer route via the High Street.

Meetings for the first three months of 2018 are:

Friday 5th January 2018Ashley Grove - ‘Wonderful Winter Wildlife’A welcome return visit from a well-known local speaker.

Friday 9th February 2018Oliver Smart - ‘Exploring Ethiopia’Oliver’s talk covers a country not previously featured at our meetings.

Friday 9th March 2018Mike Leach - ‘Owls of the World’Mike has been a regular visitor for many years, and we look forward to his talk on this interesting family of birds.

All the above talks have kindly been sponsored by a legacy from the estate of our former member and regular supporter Norma Hone.

Please note that with effect from our February meeting we have moved to the second Friday in the month, as a consequence of our friends at Solihull RSPB changing their meeting date to the first Thursday.

STAFFORD BRANCHBranch Contact: David Dodd 01543 490096 Email: stafford@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Answer to the Quiz? Our bird in this issue is a Brown Creeper (Certhia americana) photographed in April in Minnesota, USA. The brown creeper is also known as the American Treecreeper and is the only North American member of the Treecreeper family Certhiidae.

Peter Lewis

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Indoor MeetingsThese are held at the Perkins Sports & Social Club, Tixall Road, Stafford. ST16 3UB. Drive past ‘Reception’ and follow the road to the wooden building on your left. Park on the Club site.  Meet at 19:30hrs for a sharp 19:45 start.

Tuesday 5th December 2017Neil Glenn  “Birding the Artic Circle”Neil takes us on an adventure to sample the birding a bit further North.Tuesday 2nd January 2018Jim Almond    “Scilly Pelagic Magic” Can’t stand rolling around in a boat? Never mind Jim and his high quality images will help you enjoy what you have missed!

Tuesday 6th February 2018  Details to be confirmed - see Club website for details nearer the date

Tuesday 6th March 2018Ken Reeves   “Fire on the Scillies”Ken’s take on the Scilly Twitch. 

Field Meetings While the Stafford Branch has no formal field trips arranged at present the Committee is aware that there are new members who consider themselves as beginners or novices and who would like the opportunity to go birding with more experienced bird watchers. This also applies to more experienced bird watchers who may wish to come along as well to share the social chat and maybe the excitement. If you would like to join in please contact David.

KIDDERMINSTER BRANCH Contacts 01562 913898 Please note new number (Branch Chair, Brian Rickett, 1 Russell Road Kidderminster) or 01384 839838 Email: kidderminster@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Indoor Meetings Meetings are held at St. Oswald’s Church Centre, off Broadwaters Drive, Kidderminster DY10 2RY commencing at 19.30hrs.  A charge of  £2.00 per person for WMBC members and £2.50 for non-members is made, which includes refreshments

Wednesday 24th January 2018 John Chamberlin FRPS - Wildlife around the World. John has been photographing Wildlife for 35 years. His latest passion is Birds and Mammals.

Wednesdy 28th February 2018 Mike Lane - A Digital Lane Returns A welcome return now Mike has gone and joined the digital revolution

Wesnesday 28th March 2018 Jim Almond - New England and Vancouver IslandJim’s the Shropshire Birder. His talk will be about all the wildlife found in this part of the world

Wednesday 25th April 2018 Nick Martin - The Secret wildlife of the Forest of DeanThe Goshawk the elusive predator and other things.

A new feature suggested by you. Let me start the ball rolling then over to you for future suggestions.

My Favourite Piece of Birding Kit EverRecommended to me initially by Peter Dedicoat and June Taylor the Ultra Light Bino Harness from Rick Young has done more to transform a long birding day for me than anything else. Not because it is in itself lightweight but because its design makes your binoculars absolutely weightless and keeps them snug to your body. Imagine wearing a good rucksack the weight in it just disappears. This harness works in the same way. Impressed I ordered three harnesses direct from the American designer but there was a nasty sting in the tail when they were impounded by customs (I didn’t mind paying the VAT it was the additional £8 handling charge from Royal Mail that hurt) but there is good news. This harness is now being stocked by Tim at Focus Optics. Check it out on his home page.

Sue

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BIRD NOTES August to October

These notes, compiled as always from unchecked records, cover the greater part of the autumn migration. My thanks to all who have supplied records, either to blogs, on Twitter accounts, or to me personally. The only Cannock Chase records are those which appear in blogs: information derived solely from the Club’s 2017 survey is excluded.

OCTOBER’S HAWFINCH INFLUXThere was a significant national influx of Hawfinches during October, and our region had records from at least 70 sites (including our Belvide and Ladywalk reserves). The earliest was at Belvide on 8th (seven birds), with the next at Kingsbury Water Park/ Middleton Lakes on 14th, and numerous reports occurring thereafter until (and beyond) the end of the month. The highest counts were at Belvide (27) and Abberton (at least 20), both on 28th October. Other double-figure counts came from Caunsall, Evesham, Hartshill Hayes, Middleton Lakes, Chasewater, Walton Hill, Bittell, Lickey Hills and Dordon. Many reports related to birds flying over.

RARITIESA Razorbill at Draycote Water on 25th October, which died the following day, was the first regional record for over 60 years. An Arctic Skua visited Draycote Water on 8th August. A Leach’s Storm-petrel was seen at Chasewater on 17th October, with the same or another bird reported from Aqualate Mere the following day. Manx Shearwaters were picked up in Headless Cross and central Birmingham. A Red-necked Phalarope spent 11 days in September at Salford Priors Gravel Pits. There were plenty of reports of Grey Phalarope, with a long-stayer (from October 4th-23rd) at Blithfield, and other records from Bittell, Belvide, Draycote Water, Olton Reservoir, Captain’s Pool (near Kidderminster) and Throckmorton. A Purple

Sandpiper was recorded at Draycote Water on 20th September. A Sabine’s Gull visited Napton Reservoir briefly on 9th August. An adult and four juvenile Eurasian Spoonbills were at Upton Warren on 24th and 25th September. Upton Warren also had a Spotted Crake on 19th August. Cattle Egrets were reported from Alvecote Pools (2-3, several dates), Middleton Lakes (where all three egret species were seen on the same day), Worcester, Blithfield, Doxey Marshes and Pool Hall. An American Wigeon was at Grimley from 16-30th October. A Long-tailed Duck was recorded at Branston on 31st October. A Lesser Scaup visited Tittesworth 0n 21st October. Reports of Yellow-browed Warbler came from Hollywood, Broom and near Nuneaton.

W.M.B.C. RESERVESBELVIDEA photograph taken by Paul Hopwood at a ringing session on 12th August is highly instructive in distinguishing between Willow Tit and Marsh Tit. It can be found on the gallery section of our website. Other passerine species caught at ringing sessions include Tree Pipit, Grasshopper Warbler, Whinchat and Cetti’s Warbler. The all-day competition on 2nd September with other principal local reserves included a Corn Bunting in the list. A Water Pipit visited on 21st October. There have been plenty of records of Spotted Flycatcher. Ten Yellow Wagtails were counted on 5th August. In late October there were counts of 1116 Redwings and 273 Fieldfares. There was a count of 17 Red Knot on 6th August: other wader species reported include Spotted Redshank, Common Greenshank, Turnstone, Avocet, Whimbrel, Little Stint, Wood Sandpiper, Sanderling, Ruff, European Golden Plover and Grey Plover. A Grey Partridge was recorded on 18th September. On 27th August a Hobby was seen robbing prey from a Eurasian Sparrowhawk. There have been

Compiled from your records by Humphrey Miller

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single sightings of Marsh Harrier and Red Kite. A Short-eared Owl was recorded on 7th October. A Great White Egret visited on 17th October. Six Dark-bellied Brent Geese were reported on 18th October. A Red-breasted Merganser (first seen at Gailey) was recorded on 21st October. A Ruddy Duck visited on 29th October. Single Greater Scaup were present on several dates in August and October. A Caspian Gull was recorded between 28th August and 2nd September. There were a few reports of a Black-necked Grebe in the second half of August.

BLITHFIELDOne of the more unusual records was a Woodlark on 23rd October. Up to 10 Spotted Flycatchers were recorded on several dates, the last sighting being on 17th September. Common Redstarts were recorded on several dates, with a highest count of nine. Whinchat, European Stonechat and Northern Wheatear were also recorded in small numbers. The highest count of Yellow Wagtail was 43. There were a couple of sightings of a single Tree Pipit. There was a count of 25 Arctic Terns on 4th August. There were a few reports of small numbers of Black Terns. Sandwich Terns were reported on two dates. High counts of common waders were 76 Dunlin, 75 Ringed Plover, 35 Little Ringed Plover and 21 Black-tailed Godwits. Other wader species included a Pectoral Sandpiper from 4th-9th August, a Curlew Sandpiper from 4th-8th September, Avocet, Little Stint, Red Knot, Ruff, Whimbrel, Turnstone, European Golden Plover and Common Greenshank. A Northern Gannet went over on 11th October. Ospreys were recorded on several dates, and there were occasional sightings of Marsh Harrier and Red Kite. A juvenile Common Cuckoo was present from 19th to 26th August. 1-2 Little Gulls were seen from 6th-13th September, there was a single report of a Mediterranean Gull, there were several records of a Caspian Gull, and the highest count of Yellow-legged Gulls was eight.

LADYWALKThe reserve was again privileged to be visited by a Turtle Dove, on 30th and 31st August. The first Eurasian Bittern of the winter was first seen on

20th October. There have been several sightings of Great White Egret. On 7th September a Grey Heron predated a Common Kingfisher. The winter’s first Jack Snipe was recorded on 9th October. On the same day a Whooper Swan was reported. The final report of Hobby was on 22nd September. At least 10 Water Rails were heard on 23rd October, and they are believed to have had three broods. A juvenile Common Cuckoo was reported on 7th August. Just off the reserve, a Firecrest was seen at Lea Marston churchyard on 18th October. Two Tree Sparrows were seen on 30th October. A juvenile Willow Tit was seen on 29th August. There have been sightings of Tree Pipit, Yellow Wagtail, Spotted Flycatcher, Common Redstart, European Stonechat and Whinchat. There were counts of 500 House Martins on 14th September and 45 Lesser Redpolls on 9th October.

SELECTED RECORDS FROM OTHER MAIN SITESDRAYCOTE WATERA juvenile Shag visited from October 22nd-29th. Two Whooper Swans were reported on 30th October. There were two records of 1-2 Brent Geese in late October. A Greater Scaup was recorded on 18th October. There were plenty of double-figure counts of Little Egrets, with a few in excess of 20 birds. A flock of 100 European Golden Plovers was recorded on 30th October. Other wader species included Whimbrel, Turnstone, Sanderling, Bar-tailed Godwit, Grey Plover, Little Stint and Avocet. A White Wagtail was reported on 8th October. There were several reports of Osprey. Gull roost examination revealed highest counts of 38 Yellow-legged and four Caspian. Two Little Gulls were seen on 17th October, and there were a few records of Mediterranean Gull. There were a few sightings of small numbers of Black Terns. Up to five Rock Pipits were recorded.

PRINCIPAL RECORDS ELSEWHERENON-PASSERINESThe highest counts of Whooper Swan were 11 at Middleton Lakes and six at Uttoxeter Quarry and Tittesworth. The largest skein of Pink-footed

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Geese was 150 over the North Staffordshire Moorlands. Two Dark-Bellied Brent Geese were recorded at Bittell on 27th September. Reports of Garganey came from Middleton Lakes and Salford Priors. Six Common Scoters at Earlswood Lakes on 21st August was a good site record. A Red-breasted Merganser was recorded at Sandwell Valley on 23rd and 24th September. Six Red Grouse were reported from Revidge on 1st September. A Grey Partridge was at Salford Priors on 1st September. Other records of Northern Gannet came from Newcastle-under-Lyme and Evesham. There were October reports of Shag from Westport Lake and Knypersley Reservoir. Reports of Great White Egret were numerous. A long-staying Black-necked Grebe was at Westport Lake from 31st August to 2nd October, and there was another bird recorded at Coton. Marsh Harrier records were widespread. Hen Harrier reports were from Gailey, Napton on the Hill and Nuneaton crematorium. There was a report in the birding press of a Northern Goshawk at Sandwell Valley. Ospreys were seen at 13 further sites.

The largest known flock of European Golden Plover was an estimated 300 at Earlswood on 25th October. Two Bar-tailed Godwits were at Bittell on 28th October. Two Red Knot were recorded at Chasewater on 8th October. A Curlew Sandpiper was reported from Middleton Lakes on 3rd October. A Pectoral Sandpiper visited Salford Priors in early October. Records of Wood Sandpiper included a long-staying bird at Upton Warren until 25th August. An early returning Jack Snipe was at Marsh Lane on 10th October. Woodcocks were reported at Chasewater and Knypersley Reservoir. Other

Sandwich Tern records came from Chasewater, Uttoxeter Quarry, Kemerton Lake and Upton Warren. A Kittiwake was reported from Chasewater on 28th October. On 25th October there was an exceptional Wood Pigeon passage in north Staffordshire of over 35000 birds. Barn Owl reports included four seen together at Middleton Lakes. A Long-eared Owl was reported from Alvecote Pools on 21st October. Short-eared Owls were recorded at Whitemoor Haye, Chasewater and Throckmorton. A Wryneck was found in a Brewood garden on 8th September. Records of Lesser Spotted Woodpecker came from Middleton Lakes and Alvecote Pools. Merlins were reported from Nafford, Upper Moor, Whitemoor Haye, Gailey and Aqualate Mere.

PASSERINESAdditional reports of Firecrest were from Earlswood Lakes on 17th October and Middleton Lakes on 29th. There was a report of a count of 270 grounded Skylarks at Salford Priors on 10th October. A new locality for Cetti’s Warbler to be recorded was Seeswood Pool (Nuneaton). Additional records of Grasshopper Warbler came from Grimley, Marsh Lane and Earlswood Lakes. The only report of Dipper came from Trentham Gardens. Reports of Ring Ouzel came from Bredon Hill, Walton Hill, Lutley Wedge, the North Staffordshire Moorlands, Berryhill Fields, Rocester and Tutbury. Records of Spotted Flycatcher included a family party of five at Earlswood Lakes, and four at Woodgate Valley, the Oldacre Valley and Morton Bagot. The only

Red-breasted Merganser on Forge Mill Lake, Sandwell Valley on 23rd October - Hughie King

Juvenile Black-necked Grebe at Westport Lake, Staffordshire - Steve Seal

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Our Belvide Reserve New path and restoration of existing path - An update

The new path extension, which runs from the West End Hide through to the Tarmac lane, has been installed and we are delighted with it. A 230 metre section of the existing path around gazebo bay, that floods regularly and has been almost permanently muddy, has been doubled in width and drainage installed. The remainder of the existing path has been scraped off and those who have seen it will agree, I am sure, that whist it is a great improvement it still leaves much to be desired as it is weedy and uneven (although perfectly wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible). It will now be allowed to settle over winter and as we are unable to use a residual week killer a systemic one will be professionally applied in spring once growth has recommenced. Once we are sure we have current growth under control the condition will be assessed and a top dressing will be applied as required. Going forward the entire path will be regularly weed treated to ensure it remains fully accessible and in good condition thus avoiding the need for costly remedial work in the future.

Sue Judge

known sighting of Pied Flycatcher was on 12th August at Radford Meadows, Stafford. Likewise, there was just one Black Redstart record – at Morton Bagot on 8th October. There were many further reports of Whinchat, with the highest counts being ten at Berryhill Fields and eight at Longdon Marsh. Two Greenland Wheatears were at Berryhill Fields on 12th October.

There was a count of 35 Tree Sparrows at Whitemoor Haye on 28th October. Additional Yellow Wagtail reports included ten at Otherton (near Gailey) on 26th August. A Blue-headed Wagtail was at Salford Priors on 3rd September.

There was a count of 4402 Meadow Pipits at Berryhill Fields on 28th September. Water Pipits were reported from Middleton Lakes and Doxey Marshes. There was a flock of 20 Bramblings at Downs Bank on 28th September. The largest flock of Lesser Redpolls was 40 at Dimmingsdale on 31st October. 13 Common Crossbills were at Abraham’s Valley on 13th October. A flock of 90 Goldfinches was reported at Morton Bagot on 7th September. There were counts of 30 Siskins at Earlswood Lakes and Hartshill Hayes. 12 Corn Buntings were recorded at Whittington Farm. 14 Yellowhammers were reported from i54.

A second New Feature suggestion this issue. This time from Humphrey Miller, Chairman of our Solihull Branch. This time Humphrey sets the scene and starts the ball rolling. Borrowed from Test Match Special the concept of the “Champagne Moment” – a stand-out moment in a day’s birding.

Champagne MomentsI am reminded by my impending visit to Lincolnshire of the last time I went birding there – July 2007, in the company of my old friend and fellow branch committee member Anthony Reynolds.

Scene Digby Fen, Sleaford, twitching a Montagu’s Harrier. While we were waiting for the MH to appear (which it did before too long) we were treated to a warm-up act in the form of a fly-past by a Spitfire, a Hurricane and a Lancaster (from the WW2 Memorial Flight) based a few miles away at Coningsby.

Another one, five years later. One for connoisseurs of vernacular bird names – waiting in Scrabster Harbour on the Orkney ferry prior to its departure, and sighting within the confines of the harbour a

Bonxie, a Tystie and a Rain Goose. You get the idea? Humphrey Miller

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West Midland Bird ClubField Trip Reports - Ray Davies

Judith Gerrard – Thank You              

Over the last five years Judith Gerrard has provided me with invaluable help with the organising of Field Trips.  Maintaining the list of those wishing to attend upcoming day Trips has assisted me greatly.  However the more unseen booking of hotels and associated liaison with hotel staff for our weekend breaks has made my organisation of these immensely easier.  Unfortunately family commitments now require Judith to relinquish this help.  Her efforts will be greatly missed.

Thank You Judith for everything - not forgetting husband John, the computer whizz in the background!

We look forward to continuing to see both Judith and John on future TripsRay

P.S.  Is there anyone willing to take over - please?  Contact Ray soon.

Photograph of Snow Bunting at Minsmere - Rob Going

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Minsmere RSPB - Sunday 17th September 2017We arrived at Minsmere about 11.15 to be met by RSPB staff for permits and news of birds seen. We went to the Centre and, as it was raining lightly, the feeding station was watched where a Marsh Tit was seen as well as regular species. From the North hide little was to be seen apart for a few who saw a Bittern fly over the reeds. We moved on to watch over the North field where Goldfinches and Meadow Pipits fed on seeds and a Wheatear was found and enjoyed! A few Pied Wagtail were around but not the Citrine Wagtail that had been present up to the day before. Further on, in the reeds of North Marsh, Bearded Tits were feeding but not always visible. Then news came through that a Snow Bunting had appeared on the beach - we went immediately!! Joining others we watched the bird feeding between the edge of the shingle and vegetation at the top of the beach - at close quarters - brilliant. Nearby from East hide we watched while we had lunch. The Red-necked Phalarope had flown off to a nearby field - bother. Around the ‘scape’ we found one Bar-tailed Godwit among many Blacktails, a wierd plumaged Ruff with very white head and underside, as well as the expected Avocets, Lapwing and gulls. A Ringed Plover was on its own.

Moving to the public viewing platform we added Dunlin to the list and then made our way towards South hide. However people rushing towards us indicated something was up - the Phalarope had been reported as returning to East Hide! Many made their way there and had ‘scope views of the bird feeding frenziedly in one corner of the ‘scrape’. As time was moving on the shortest route back to the Centre was taken stopping by the North Marsh again. Here a male Bearded Tit was found at the base of reeds, beside a small pool, drinking. Excellent views were had and then two Whinchat were spotted on top of a bush in the centre of the reeds! Time to leave for the Centre, another view of the Marsh Tit and back to the coach slightly disappointed that the recently present Citrine Wagtail had disappeared! However all were well pleased with the Rednecked Phalarope, early Snow Bunting, Bearded Tits and Whinchats and a day’s total of 70 species.

Gibraltar Point Lincolnshire - Sunday 8th October 2017 We arrived at Gibraltar Point at 11.00 and went to the new Visitor Centre (replacing the burnt out one). After paying the fees some went to the roof area to view the surrounding area seeing 3-4 Stonechats around fence posts and concrete blocks. We walked to the wood and the woodland screen where only regular species were seen but a Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard. From the hide looking over Jackson’s Marsh the expected species of duck were present with Black-tailed Godwits, a Dunlin, Avocet and three Greenshank. From the Tennyson Sands hide we were treated, unusually, with excellent views of a Water Rail, preening in front of the reedbed for some 20 minutes! Two Snipe were nearby. From the next hide we hoped for better views of some Spotted Redshank but they had moved out of sight. While we had lunch the birds flew out into full view - there were nine of them in all!! We left to cross the dunes and entered the Mere hide . Mallard, Gadwall and Coot were seen but imagine our surprise when we saw a male Mandarin sitting at the end of a line of roosting Mallard!! Meanwhile those near the Centre were treated to a view of a Short-eared Owl over the saltmarsh.

We moved on finding a Whinchat on a fence post and the first of many Redwing seen around the reserve. From the Hill viewpoint a Pied Flycatcher, seen earlier was relocated and enjoyed. The sea was well out but a group of Common Scoter were on a stranded pool, a Great Northern Diver was seen flying past as was a Gannet. We made our way to return to the car park when we had news of a Yellow-browed Warbler seen at the Observatory area. A quick detour yielded brief flight views. As we returned a phone call from the Centre roof (where many of the group had gathered) brought our attention to a female Merlin perched up in a nearby dead tree - magic. She had flown in over the heads of those on the roof!. We hurried back to the coach arriving a little late!! A very enjoyable day had recorded 73 species in a matter of 5 hours.

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Norfolk Weekend 3rd November 2017Saturday dawned with heavy rain falling which was forecast to persist to lunchtime. Plans to seawatch at Cley were abandoned for a visit to Titchwell where there were hides for some protection! Despite the rain we soon found a Water Pipit on the dry lagoon on the Thornham side of the path and soon after were watching from Parrinder hide looking over the freshwater lagoon. Among the many Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler and Mallard was a single male Pintail. Among the many Golden Plover, Lapwing, Ruff, Dunlin and Black-tailed Godwit were a few Avocet and Ringed Plover. Two Water Rail near the hide were seen well as they chased each other. Surprisingly two Marsh Harriers hunted in the rain! Viewing the brackish marsh from the second part of the hide revealed a Grey Plover and a Bar-tailed Godwit feeding close by. The rain eased and a walk to the beach recorded Stonechat on the marsh and Mergansers and Scoter on the sea. With light rain still falling a ‘twitch’ to Stiffkey revealed two Cattle Egret feeding at the feet of cattle in a roadside field and on the return a group of Egyptian Geese was seen. The afternoon was spent at Burnham Overy Staithe where from the path a Taiga Bean Goose was found with a flock of Greylags in a nearby field. Five Buzzards were spotted perched around the fields and a Marsh Harrier quartered the area.

Sunday dawned dry but cold, however a seawatch before breakfast was productive. Red-throated and Great Northern Divers flew past, as did a few Common Scoter and two Velvet Scoter appeared briefly. Flocks of Starling were common but were outdone by the massive cloud’ of Knot that appeared and

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roosted on a nearby sandbank! The occasional Gannet flew past. The news of a Dotterel having roosted at Titchwell overnight had us going there after breakfast but to no avail as it flew off early, reportedly to the Choseley Barns area where we went next! No sign despite rigorous searching, however a female Merlin was found sitting in a field which also had a few Golden Plover, Red-legged and Grey Partridge and some Curlew. A quick visit then to Thornham Harbour found Rock Pipit and a few Twite among the ‘flighty’ flock of Linnet. We returned to Titchwell in the hope of the Dotterel returning to roost with the many Golden Plover - it didn’t! A Spotted Redshank was added to increase the list of wader species to 16. The patience shown by some observers was rewarded with a brief sighting of Shorelark and the feeders at the Centre yielded a Brambling. As dusk fell up to 12 Marsh Harriers came to roost. Despite a rain affected weekend and a paucity of migrant passerines an impressive 98 species were recorded by the group. Together with the hotel’s hospitality and a few laughs the stay was very enjoyable and productive

Ray DaviesPhotographs - Grey Plover and Three Happy People (Liz, Phil and Barbara) - Ray Davies

Editor’s QuizSpot the Difference?

A clue to help you:Both shots are of Gazebo bay at Belvide.

Yes you’ve guessed - It’s too easy isn’t it?

The first phograph was taken in Spring and the second in autumn.

Or more importantly before the path works and after the path works.

In an attempt to prevent any reoccurrence of the former damage and inconvenience the path in this section has been doubled in width and drainage put in.

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And Finally It is never too early to send in your contribution for the next Newsletter. If something in this issue prompts a response or inspires something entirely different don’t wait until next year, email it to me straight away. No access to a computer? Don’t use this as an excuse, write it out and send it to me by post (the earlier the better) and I will type it up.

SueSuggestions The officers of the club welcome suggestions and feedback from the membership regarding any aspect of our club. Please send them to the most appropriate officer or, if in doubt, to Mark our Secretary who will pass them on.

Next Issue The Spring issue of your newsletter will go to press by mid-February and should be on your door mats at the beginning of March. Please send your contributions to the editor by 1st Februaury at the latest. Anything received after this cut off date will be held over until the Summer issue.

WMBC OfficersPresident - W. E. Oddie O.B.E.

Vice Presidents - A.J. Richards,G.R. Harrison and J.R. Winsper

Chairman - Kevin Clements, 26 Hambrook Close, Dunstall Park,Wolverhampton, WV6 0XAEmail: chair@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Deputy Chairman - Roger Broadbent,Maple Cottage , 8 Home Farm Court, Ingestre Stafford ST18 0PZdeputy-chair@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Honorary Secretary - Mark Rickus,27 Ringmere Avenue, Castle Bromwich B36 9ATEmail: secretary@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Honorary Treasurer - Andy Thomas24 Awbridge Road, Dudley, West Midlands,DY2 0JAEmail: treasurer@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Membership Secretary - Michael Bevan,64 Brookfields Road, Ipstones, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 2LY Email: membership@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Permits Secretary - As Honorary Secretary Email: permits@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Press Officer - Rob SwiftEmail: press@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Annual Report Editor - D.W. (Dave) Emley, 23 Leacroft, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8GFEmail: report@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Website Manager - Jim Winsper32 Links Road, Hollywood, Birmingham B14 4TP Email: website@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Newsletter Editor - Sue Judge3 Fennel Close, Cheslyn Hay, WS6 7DZEmail: newsletter@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

AdvertisingEnquiries regarding advertising in this publication should be addressed to the Editor.

Small ads of direct benefit to members and ‘for sale’ items from members will be normally be included free of charge, space permitting.

The WMBC is a Registered Charity (number213311), serving birdwatchers, ornithologists and all who have an interest in the birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands Counties. Website - westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

Twitter account @WestMidBirdClub

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