WILDLIFE TRAVEL

ROMANIA Danube Delta, Carpathians & Transylvania

Trip Report and Species Lists 15th – 24th May 2015

Photo: White Pelicans by Charlie Rugeroni

Exploring the spectacular wildlife of the

Romanian Danube Delta and the majestic Carpathian Mountains

DATE LOCATIONS & NOTES

1 15th May Flight from the UK to Bucharest, transfer to Hotel Diamant in Amara

2 16th May Travel east through Babadag Forest and onto our ‘hotelboat’ Kingfisher

3 17th May Cruise the Delta’s main channel; visit village of Sfantu Gheorghe & the Black Sea

4 18th May Sfantu Gheorghe; Sacalin Island

5 19th May Lake (Lacul Erenciuc) off main Danube channel; head back to Uzlina

6 20th May Lacul Uzlina, Lacul Isac, Lacul Isăcel and their channels; Uzlina

7 21th May Travel west to Zărneşti in Carpathian Mts. Via Măcin; Pension Elena

8 22nd May Zarnesti Gorge; Piatra Craiului; bear watching

9 23rd May Fagaras Mts - Sinca Noua valley; Braşov

10 24th May Return to Bucharest; Pelişor Castle; flight back to UK

LIST OF TRAVELLERS Participants Jill and Nicholas Franks (jjfranks@mac.com) Jane and Gwynne Jones (janejones17@btinternet.com) Sally MacEachern and Victor Ford (sally@maceachern.entadsl.com) Sylvia and Mick O’Dell (sylvia.odell@btinternet.com) David and Eleanor Smith (northhallfarm@btinternet.com) Mark Wright (cmvwright@btinternet.com) Tour Leaders and Local Guide Charlie Rugeroni Wildlife Travel, England Mike Symes Wildlife Travel, England George Panait EuroDelta Travel, Romania Day 1 Friday 15 May Outbound to Henri Coanda International Airport Bucharest-Otopeni, travel to Hotel Diamant, Amara George and I met with Ellie and David at the Europa Royale Hotel in central Bucharest and then weaved our way through the traffic to Henri Coanda Airport, where we met the rest of the group arriving with Mike. Mircea, our driver and, quote, ‘life insurance’, was there waiting with van and trailer. With clocks brought forward by two hours we headed east, bypassing the capital (once known as the Little Paris) and before long, we found ourselves on the A2 gazing at the non-descript flatlands of the Wallachian Plain. There were few birds seen here apart from Starlings, the odd Kestrel and Coot, and our first Cuckoos of the trip. Once at Amara, with bags unloaded and transferred to our rooms at the Hotel Diamont, we mustered on the terrace with drinks in hand for a briefing on the trip ahead and tomorrow in particular. We made our introductions while all the time a Great Reed Warbler wished to get in on the act, singing vociferously from reeds lining the lake across the road. A hilarious ‘Give us a Clue’ menu order-taking at supper, with an obliging waitress, heralded a satisfying and tasty meal at the end of a long day in transit. The evening was warm with clear skies.

Day 2 Saturday 16 May Lake at Amara; travel east to Babadag Forest and onto our hotelboat Kingfisher, Murighiol An overcast but becalmed warm day beckoned us out before breakfast, as did the dawn canine chorus. Crossing the road to the lake on our doorstep, with two friendly dogs escorting us, we immediately came upon a Little Bittern which, in characteristic indolent flight, flew across part of the lake. Great Reed Warblers called from tops of reed stems, their voices matched in loudness by the local Marsh Frogs. Two Golden Orioles flew into a copse near us, soon joined by a third. Salsify and Common Stork’s-Bill provided most of the colour at our feet. Another scan of the lake, seemingly no bigger than the Serpentine in Hyde’s Park, produced up to 10 Ferruginous Ducks, Black-necked and Great Crested Grebes, Shelduck, Moorhen and a party of noisy Whiskered Terns. Things were hotting up for us and for the Common Blue Damselflies revving their engines on blades of grass on the embankment as the sun began to shine and snails bungee jumped from same grass. Small Heaths were also about. Squacco Herons (see below) flew in for close views while in the mid-distance Pochard, Coot, Mallard and House Sparrows all put an appearance. As we started our walk back to the hotel a hunting Red-backed Shrike alighted on Elaeagnus and as we watched, a courting male and female Cuckoo presenting good views – the first of many to come. Savi’s Warbler could be heard distinctly reeling in the distance and a Whinchat was striking a pose, while in the foreground a stand of Poppies bright and blood red was beautifully back-lit. After a superb and welcome breakfast, with fine coffee albeit in little cups, we were off: the morning had been a wonderful aperitif to the holiday. Just before Tandarei, we spotted Glossy Ibis in pools on the expansive arable and wetlands which stretched as far as our eyes could see. Numerous Romanian Orthodox Churches dotted the villages we passed: the horses and carts were mostly all going the other way! At Giurgeni, we stepped out of the van and onto a dyke to get better views of White Storks at the nest with some noisy Spanish Sparrows for neighbours, also nesting. Whilst here, we picked out Lapwing, Little Egret, Kestrel and mudlarking Swallows. Turkeys gobbled and more dogs barked in the village. Shortly after, we crossed the Danube for the first time along the Giurgeni–Vadu Oii Bridge; 24 Mute Swans fed in fields nearby as we went through a toll booth. Stopping at a large lake, Lacul Hazarlâc, between Hârşova and Saraiu we took a quick break and explored the area beginning with the slopes opposite the lake. What a delightful flowery slope it was, with stands of deep blue Salvia nemerosa interspersed with Ground Pine, Thyme, Perennial Flax, the diminutive red Pheasant’s Eye and Henbane among other flowers. Glanville Fritillary and Silver-studded Blue flitted around and Nightingale with Golden Oriole sung out from nearby shrubs. Bee-eaters could be heard as they flew high above. A Corn Bunting let out its persistent jingling song from a fence post as we headed across the road to the lakeside where we were treated to a birding delight. Flying, on the water or amongst the reeds we spotted Purple and Night Herons, Pygmy Cormorants, Whiskered Terns, Little Bittern and Roller among others. We also managed to get good views of Marsh Frogs which seemed to burst into song all at once and then stop

suddenly for no apparent reason. Near the lake shore we came across Aristolochia clematitis (Birthwort, below right) with its elegantly attenuated yellow-green flowers.

We moved on towards our picnic lunch destination just north of the Dobrujan Plateau. The flatlands turned into more rolling country with Common Buzzards wheeling above the advancing woods. We soon entered Babadag Forest, an attractive sub-Mediterranean deciduous woodland dominated by oak species, mixed with such things as Lime, Maple, Elm and Oriental Hornbeam. Here we met up with George who had earlier moved on ahead and sourced our picnic lunch complete with tables, all just a stone’s throw away from a watching crowd of Violet Limmodores and swarms of Norfolk Hawkers. It was a difficult choice: to eat or to admire the flowers – some did both at the same time others sat and enjoyed the tasty eclectic fare. After coffee we divided into two groups, without a word being spoken; some went in search of birds, Ortolan in particular and others in search of plants, with orchids and peonies in mind. Glanville Fritillaries flitted from Nodding Sage to Yellow Woundwort to Scotch Thistle. Ortolan were spotted and heard, albeit briefly, among the Downy Oak, where Woodlark also sung. In the forest glades more blood red, this time that of Paeonia peregrina, punctuating the understorey; their scent wafting up to us as we stepped between them. Here too, Clematis recta were found alongside Lady and Greater Butterfly Orchids.

The robust leaves of Black False Helloborine (Veratrum nigrum) contrasted nicely with the looser peony leaves when, as we stepped deeper into the undergrowth, one or two delightfully coloured Purple Mullein were spotted, their lemon yellow eyes picked out by the emerging sun of early afternoon. A young Spur-thighed Tortoise was detected going about its business as was a superbly coloured Balkan Green Lizard. Globularia was just about in flower. The mix of plants, butterflies, Hoopoes, Bee-eaters and songbirds in the forest all contributed to Babadag’s special distinctiveness – clearly enhanced by a wonderful picnic!

From here we travelled to Cetatea Enisala climbing to the ruins of the 12th to 14th century fortress of Heraclea, which sat atop a hill overlooking the impressive lake Lacul Razim and vast fields of reed grass and water channels with Murighiol, our port, in the far distance. Sousliks whistled from behind rocks dotting the lower slopes while we watched Greylag Geese way below in the marshes, with young. Hoopoe and Northern and Black-eared Wheatears flitted around the ruins and a female Marsh Harrier soared up in front of us proffering superb views. In the distance, a Great Black-headed Gull, White Pelicans and a Great White Egret flew east. Time was pressing and we moved on to a Bee-eater bank, with last year’s nests having been taken over by Starlings; hirundines circled in the late afternoon as did another Marsh Harrier. The houses bordering the main street in the village of Sarichioi had beautifully looked after front gardens which extended to the verge beyond the pavement – here hostas, irises and potted plants combined to enthral as we drove through and onto the salt lake (Lacul Sărăturii) on the outskirts of Murighiol. At the lake, Sylvia spotted a male Garganey with a flock of Pochard. Mediterranean and Black-headed Gulls were present as were Black-winged Stilts. More Purple Herons, this time a flock flying west with one Black-crowned Night Heron (see below).

White Pelicans, Common Terns, Coots, Yellow-legged and Caspian Gulls were the last birds to be seen today; Mick mentioned that earlier he’d seen a Quail crossing the road – made a change from the chicken! We arrived at Murighiol at 1845 and berthed alongside ‘Kingfisher’ at 1945, aboard the tugboat Papurisol. Lucian, second in command and an impressive general factotum, had the barbecue going for supper. Danubian (European) Catfish was delightfully seared and served with potatoes and salad all of which had been preceded by dips of pureed aubergine and carp caviar; it all coming to an end with strawberries for dessert. The following day’s itinerary was discussed and as it had been an immensely full and diverse day of wildlife sightings, it was unanimously agreed that we would review our day tomorrow after a good night’s rest on Danube waters. Day 3 Sunday 17 May Cruise the Delta’s channels; visit fishing village of Sfântu Gheorghe & the Black Sea

0730 saw a determined early bird-watching group on top deck on a remarkable morning when much was seen and heard before breakfast. A pair of Garganey, Barred Warbler heard singing, nesting Kingfisher, Penduline Tits, Hooded Crows, Grey Heron (catching then dropping fish), Great and Pygmy Cormorants and Roller in the early light were some of the birds enjoyed early on. One particular Marsh Frog proved to be king of the algal mat beside the boat. A hearty breakfast which included local bread, cheese and quince, cold meats and plenty of coffee/tea and cereals happened while our tug for the trip was prepared and harnessed for the get-go of our journey downstream at 0945.

We left our moorings at Uzlina on the eastern bank of a wide Danubian meander in the Sfântu Gheorghe arm of this impressive river, and turned left as it flowed east past Ceauşescu’s old hunting lodge. It was time to take equipment to top deck and absorb the unfolding riparian scenery, ringed by a flat horizon as we were pulled along to unsuspecting wildlife. Clouds of Lesser Emperor dragonflies above the tree line were easily visible from this vantage point on the ‘Kingfisher’, from which, we heard many a Golden Oriole, Redstart and Cuckoo. Bee-eaters appeared from holes in sandy banks or else perched on branches over this southernmost channel of the Danube. Little or no river traffic made it seem as if we were alone with the river: waters were high and brown with silt. Willow woods, poplars and Yellow Iris interchanged with reed beds or grazing land as we scanned for birds, when a shout went up, ‘Eagle!’ Necks craned back and binos were aimed at the sheer blue sky - there it was, a sub-adult White-tailed Eagle being bothered by a Hooded Crow. And another, this time Gill picked it out, perched on a willow. Later we were impressed once more by the wonderful views of a juvenile Long-legged Buzzard. In the still of mid-morning Nightingales sang from one bank to the other and back again. Behind the trees one could appreciate the expanse of reed-beds that lay on either side of the river. Other birds followed elevenses: Black Kite, Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler, Red-backed Shrike, Caspian Gull, Willow and Garden Warblers (first heard by Mark), Lesser Grey Shrike, Red-footed Falcon and White-winged Black Terns. To speed up our progress the ‘Kingfisher’ did not negotiate all of the river’s meanders, but rather made use of the man-made cuttings, four of them. At 1300, after just over three hours, we’d reached our destination for the day and had moored before taking lunch, which comprised a full-flavoured gathering of carp, tench and catfish; vegetable flan, pancakes and homemade garlic mayo and fish soup. This was enjoyed mid-deck, with enough windows to allow excellent views of the scenery outside – mostly willow, Common Comfrey and Yellow Iris to one side, river on the other side. There was some ‘free time’ after lunch to allow for the wind to abate before our ‘speedy-boat’ channel crossing to Sfântu Gheorghe village: some of us read, some of us bird-watched and some siesta-ed. Once across and on dry land, we ambled through the marina and into the village, which was generally quiet this Sunday with the exception of singing Pool Frogs, generally greener than their relatives the Marsh Frogs. Many of the houses were of a modern construction but as we walked east towards the beach and Black Sea shore we admired some of the more traditional wooden houses with wonderful fencing and finials (see below). We continued to the end of the village and before getting onto the dune slacks we observed Greylag Geese with three chicks in a pool. In another pool nearby we had a pair of Gadwall, Ferruginous Ducks, Mute Swan and Whiskered Terns. As we stepped onto the dune slacks a Black Kite was spotted. The tamarisks all

seemed to possess a Red-backed Shrike, while the Elaeagnus shrubs sported Collared and Spotted Flycatchers – all provided good opportunities for photography.

On the sandy soils there were several specimens of Sand Catchfly (Silene conica), their pink flowers standing out in the undergrowth. We looked for Steppe Runners at the back of the beach without success: however, we picked up some five Brown Hares darting around the sand. Little Ringed Plover were seen in this area where Sand Bindweed (above right), a vulnerable species in Romania, grew out of the sand, its velvety leaves contrasting dramatically with the spiky Sea Holly. Some of us paddled in the Black Sea which felt warm-ish, before strolling south along the sandy shore to the mouth of the Danube channel where Lucien was waiting with Jane in one boat and George and colleague came in another. As we sped back to Kingfisher and supper, some noted that parts of the southern sandy banks held good stands of Woolly Butterbur in flower. Back on board most of us retired to our cabins, leaving Nicholas, George

and Mircea fishing for catfish. At supper we learnt that Nicholas had caught a three kilo catfish which had been summarily dispatched to the kitchen. After supper we all enjoyed a lively review of the day’s sightings, before retiring. Day 4 Monday 18 May Sacalin Island; north of Sfântu Gheorghe

A lovely late spring morning; the blue waters of the Danube almost mirror-like, with only the faintest trembling on the surface, and disturbed only by a rower’s crossing, carrying a load of hay bigger than his boat. The early birders, Vic and Sally, had been on top deck for an hour when others arrived at 0730. We had a pair of Turtle Doves, a pair of Blackcaps, a pair of Golden Orioles, Whitethroat, Savi’s Warbler, White Pelican and other sightings before we sat for breakfast. Looking upstream, the sky pretty much merged with water, separated by the thinnest of green lines of willow, alder and poplar. A flying Hobby caught the early morning light just before it went on a dive. During breakfast, a Syrian Woodpecker alighted on an alder outside one of the dining room windows, interrupting our plum and mint confiture, cold meats, Slovenian cheese and cereals.

Our departure time for Sacalin Island, an important bird reserve at the mouth of the Bratul-Sfântu Gheorghe channel of the Danube, where we were moored, was 0930. We took our tugboat today with speed boats in tow and headed for the Girla Mijloc channel, on the way catching good views of many Black-crowned Night Herons. A group of eight Red-footed Falcons soared, Bearded Tits (Reedling) twanged their metallic call and a male Marsh Harrier quartered the reeds. A Grey-headed Woodpecker was clearly heard calling down the channel. The ‘island’, a long saveloy-like spit, south pointing, was formed (and continues to evolve) from Danube deposits, shell and ‘marine’ sand deposits. Battered by the Black Sea’s waves this peninsula, home to White Pelicans, Black-winged Stilts, Avocets, Paddyfield Warbler and Fire-bellied Frogs among other wildlife is over 21,000ha in size. At the end of our tug ride, just where Sacalin Island meets the delta in a combination of reed, shallow water and detritus we could see large flocks of pelicans, 70+ Mute Swans with cygnets, and here and there numerous Ferruginous Ducks. George and his able-seamen tried hard to get us to disembark at the northern tip of the spit but the shallow waters made this an impossible task – the outboard engines stirring up silt, decaying vegetation and Water Chestnut’s spiny black seeds from the lagoon bottom. These impressive looking seeds looked like small terrapins swimming on the surface around us. Marsh Frogs seemed to be mocking us as we inevitably retreated and tried the longer way round, down Girla Turceasca, just west of the first channel. As the speedboat entered the wide lagoon, we observed a juvenile White-tailed Eagle on a half-submerged log suddenly take off, floating away majestically, low over the water.

At 1130 we abandoned the boats and waded in tepid clear waters towards the island, all the while watching a group of around 200 White pelicans just south of us. The water and sand felt good on our feet. White-winged Black and Little Terns skimmed the wavelets and Oystercatchers called.

The scenery was as breathtaking as was the sight of all these birds under intense bright sunlight. Now, if we could only find a Paddyfield Warbler… the breeze was noisy and the reeds rustled too much, and the Paddyfields remained hidden from us. While searching for them we came across the tracks of Wild Boar, Golden Jackal and Racoon Dog on the silty sand. Woolly Butterbur, Greater Sea-spurrey, the scented Siberian Sea Rosemary (see below), and Sea Aster were found on the spit.

Sparrowhawk, Common Sandpiper, Gadwall, Wood Sandpipers, ‘Dombroskii’s’ Yellow Wagtail, Greylag Geese and Grey Plovers were seen amid clouds of Dunlin and small flocks of Sanderlings in their rusty summer plumage. Shelduck, Common and Sandwich Terns and Knot were also viewed just before leaving the splendid spit with its prostrate landscape. By 1400 we were back on board Papurisol and chuntering along the channel to Kingfisher. Excellent views of Red-footed Falcon calling feet away, where moments earlier Bee-eaters had been perched; a Marsh Harrier flew low over our tug. Once afloat Kingfisher we realised there was an extra passenger on board - a Giant Peacock moth. At lunch, the meat/vegetable soup went down a treat as did the carp, roast vegetable and polenta or cheese, augergine and courgette flan; dessert was a collection of ice-creams – Corina had once again been busy in her kitchen.

In the afternoon, around 1700, we took the speed boats across the Danube and into the Canalul (Channel) Tătaru, just north of Sfântu Gheorghe. Setting down halfway, we emptied out onto a dyke and walked back west to the village, finding much of interest on the way. Four-spotted Chasers and White-legged Damselflies were around in the late afternoon, as were Avocets and Lapwings on the marsh to our left. Impressive Marsh Spurge grew from the water’s edge with Arums and White and Yellow Water-lilies – we heard booming Bitterns. A dainty Dianthus bassarabicus (poss) and an alkanet appeared like floral jewels on the embankment. Then from a shrub top called a lovely bird, a Black-headed Bunting. Turtle Doves walked ahead along the same path as us and a Black Kite circled and soared, while below us in the marsh Fire-bellied Toads ‘poop-pooped’ their song. More dragonflies in the form of Black-tailed Skimmers, Lesser Emperors, Azure Damselflies and a possible Lestes species. At 1900 we were picked up at the marina and once more crossed the channel on a chilly evening. Supper was a salad with Pontic Shad and a sweet orange for dessert. Day 5 Tuesday 19 May Lake (Lacul Erenciuc) off main Danube channel; sail upstream to Uzlina

With the generator still sound asleep, the quiet of the cabins was disturbed only by lapping water on the side of Kingfisher. Early shimmering sunlight streamed into our cabins and we readied ourselves for the optional early bird-watch on deck – not a breeze today. At 0700 the generator kicked in and Lucian having released the Kingfisher from its willow moorings, hopped back on board and imperceptibly we began our gentle glide upstream against wind, tide and current. Papurisol and Kingfisher hugged the north bank for less resistance. A Black Woodpecker crossed the Danube and perched on a dead willow as we sipped coffee and tea. Caspian Gulls were much the most common gull around. We moved over to the southern bank to avoid an extra wide bend and shortly after saw the first of the day’s White-tailed Eagles (sub-adult), this one chased, inevitably, by a Hooded Crow. A Hobby hunted, threading itself through the willows. Lucian set off in a small boat to buy the early morning’s catch. Four-spotted Chasers flew over the deck close enough to see their spots. At 1045 we moored, after Lucian’s neat chainsaw work on a dead willow allowed us to tie up. We took a channel north to Lacul Erenciuc and saw two more White-tailed Eagles.

Once in the lake we came across our first Dalmatian Pelicans, taking off just in front of our three boats. Dotted around on vast mats of lily pads were nesting Great Crested Grebes and Common Terns - Whiskered Terns were in the process of nest building. The clarity of the water was impressive and breaking the surface in between the lilies were many heads of Water Soldier, looking like the tops of submerged Pineapples. Frogs hopped from lily pads to water and Squacco Herons fed among the reeds; one could hear Penduline Tits in the background. A couple of Bittern were seen. We were back for lunch at 1230.

As we moved upstream we noted Gypsywort, Guelder Rose and False Indigo (introduced to Europe from North America in 1724) on the bank clearings. Shortly after lunch George delivered a fascinating talk on the Danube, its waters, birds and habitats, and the people who live and work on its banks and floodplains. Then while on upper deck around 1545, a White-tailed Eagle. We were entertained by the gulls snatching fish entrails from the water, as soon as chucked overboard by the cooks. Three Black Storks sailed over and east. Then a flock of 20+ Glossy Ibis flew towards us followed by a flock of 26 White Pelicans flying south. Just as we were turning starboard, near Murighiol, a fishing flock of White-winged Black Terns appeared together with our last White-tailed Eagle flying over Ceausescu’s hunting lodge. A couple of Rollers and Hobbies shone in the evening sun and together with seven Greylag Geese, a White Stork and several Glossy Ibises they were the perfect sightings with which to end our day. It had taken us 12 hours to Uzlina – arriving at 1900. A meal of herring and onions as starter, and succulent lamb with vegetables as main dish, was completed with a surprise birthday cake which looked like a work of art and tasted as good, cooked by Corina and brought out with the help of Camelia, especially for Gwynne. A review of the day’s birds accompanied by amusing anecdotes brought a lovely day to a close.

Day 6 Wednesday 20 May Lacul Uzlina, Lacul Isac, Lacul Isăcel and their channels; Uzlina

A couple of us ventured ashore to look for dragons and damsels and first on our list was a Black-tailed Skimmer.

At 0930, with Sally keen to spot more birds, we sped off to Lacul Uzlina and down some of its south-eastern channels. Several Rollers were spotted on the way as were Common Redstarts. Yellow Water Lily was by far the most common lily on the lake and Water Chestnut formed large floating mats of leaves on the surface. Most of the birds seen had been spotted on previous outings: Mute Swan, Ferruginous Duck, Little Egret, Mallard, Squacco Heron, Marsh Harrier, Grey Headed Woodpecker and Penduline Tits at nest. The Pochard’s coloration matched the underside of the Water Lily leaves when they were exposed by the breeze, revealing their rusty brown. Then, what at first was thought to be a Black-necked Grebe, on closer viewing was an adult Red-necked Grebe (see below right). Banded Demoiselle and Red-eyed Damselflies flitted over the water and algal mats. We had excellent views of Dalmatian Pelicans this morning.

We returned after lunch (meatball soup/veg soup, mince and rice wrapped in vine leaves and fruit) to a willow in the channel north east of Kingfisher, to photograph a Black Woodpecker at nest spotted by Mick earlier. The bird did ‘its thing’ in and around the nest and we did ‘our thing’ with cameras, later moving on to the western and north western satellite lakes/canals of Lake Uzlina. Great Crested Grebes abounded with several Black-necked Grebes with young like their Red-necked cousins. Black and Whiskered Terns were beginning

to get interested in nest building and we noted that several Common Terns had eggs at nest; the adults sitting precariously on water lily rootstocks that had floated to the surface and acted as rafts. The odd Dalmatian Pelican put an appearance but mostly they were White. More ducks and dragonflies of similar type to this morning and perhaps the most stunning feature of this place, appreciated this afternoon, as indeed on most days, was its sense of wilderness particularly when the engines were turned off. We were back at 1830 and enjoyed another sumptuous supper.

Day 7 Thursday 21 May Travel west to Zărneşti in Carpathian Mts. Via Măcin; Pension Elena

The weather to date had been very good with temperatures in the mid 20s most of the time. After breakfast and fond farewell to George, Corina, Camelia, Lucien et al, thanking them for an exhilarating holiday so far, we sped off for one last time and headed for Murighiol at 0900. We were glad to see the storm clouds were in the east and not where we were heading west. After going through the village of Besteppe we stopped at an abandoned sand quarry and admired Bee-eaters, Jackdaws, Starlings and Kestrel busying themselves on the sandy cliffs at nest or else feeding, using False Acacia as perching posts. Some of the group went up the hill and onto the cliff plateau which was delightful in the sun and full of Meadow Clary, Prostrate

Speedwell, euphorbias and Silver-studded Blues.

It was the feast day of St Elena (mother of Constantine the Great) in the Greek Orthodox Church and worshippers in their finery were paying their respect at churches, and shrines by the roadside as we continued our drive to Măcin. We arrived at 1230 and enjoyed a picnic lunch of chicken schnitzels with mushroom and sandwiches. Some of us walked up to a gorge, others remained and took photographs, yet

others in the group ambled this way and that enjoying the day and the location before moving on to Brăila. On the walk to the rocky outcrops and stream most saw a Queen of Spain Fritillary, the always impressive and exotic looking Scarce Swallowtail puddling, Small Heath, Glanville Fritillary, Large Copper, Painted Lady and an Eastern Imperial Eagle soaring above the rock crest. Not bad for a quick-ish stop. Then a Turtle Dove, Common Buzzard, Ortolan and a male Rock Thrush on, where else, but a boulder overlooking the gorge. Dogwood and Dwarf Elder were among the shrubs here. Butterfly paradise it seemed, as Cardinal followed Silver-studded Blue and Freyer’s Fritillary. The Elaeagnus shrubs were in flower and the

lower gorge was filled with their scent. Bee-eaters could be heard if not seen. A bright pink flower, pointed out by Jill, halfway up the rocky slope proved to be Sticky Catchfly (Lychnis viscaria). Then, not to be outdone, a tiny but perfectly colourful Ladybird Spider (Eresus sandaliatus) put in an appearance, complete with four black spots on an orange abdomen, black and white front legs and orange and black back ones. It displayed showing us its defence posture then scurried into the undergrowth. It is found in the UK in Dorset where it manages to keep a small but determined eight-legged foothold on the Purbecks - and only about 15mm long. By the time we’d got aboard the van we’d seen four Eastern Imperial Eagles.

Our river crossing at Brăila was delayed somewhat on account of the number of lorries wanting to cross at the same time as us – but it was all put right with an ice-cream. We continued our road trip west after a stop at a petrol station which sold some delicious typical Romanian pastries. On the bus, David and Ellie kept us informed of where we were by following our route on their ipad. We eventually reached Zărneşti where Gigi and Elena (his wife, dressed in Romanian dress) were there to welcome us to their Pension Elena with a traditional offering of plum brandy. Dinner comprised vegetable soup with polenta dumplings, followed by pork escallopes in a light tomato sauce and pasta, with stuffed courgette the vegetarian option, all nicely anointed with Romanian wine or beer and then dessert, a selection of typical north Romanian cakes. After a

brief briefing on tomorrow’s itinerary, bed was a very tempting option – Zărneşti Gorge would be our introduction to Carpathian wildlife.

Day 8 Friday 22 May Zărneşti Gorge; Piatra Craiului; bear watching An absolutely super morning. Cosmin Dan, our local guide, joined us for the day’s outing. Zărneşti, located in the Piatra Craiului mountains, part of the Southern Carpathians, was surrounded by beautiful valleys of hay meadows and pastures and woodland. Today we explored the Zărneşti Gorge with Crag Martins and Alpine Swifts shrieking above our heads as they slalomed between the gorge’s rock meanders high above us. Song Thrush, Wren, Blackbird all sung and Ravens barked their call which echoed into the gorge.

The track, with a slight incline, provided much to see on either side; a stream flowed down on our right where Grey Wagtails found food, and woods of Sessile Oak, beech and conifers came right down to the gorge track. The deep and at times very narrow canyon had been formed by the collapse of a cave roof. We managed to get as far as an opening where the gorge divided and there was sufficient grass for a picnic. Here we were soon to be joined by a group of young Romanian students on a fieldtrip who, for some unknown

reason seemed to gravitate towards Ellie and David – must have been the appetising smell of their sandwiches. Cosmin explained the significance of the thatched shrine by the stream and the tragic demise of a young couple at that spot one winter. An ex-forester, Cosmin was very helpful in detailing the forestry regime within the park and its relationship with conservation. On our way back, we spent more time on the plants. The one most often seen was Spotted Deadnettle, usually flowering by the stream edge. An unpretentious yet eye-catching small plant growing seemingly on the bare rock face, was the saxifrage, Saxifraga corymbosa, (see below right) with leaves growing in a glaucous-green rosette and its flowery stem covered with white hairs – a plant very much of these Carpathian places. Another saxifrage seen, more in the shade, was Saxifraga cuneifolia, along with Alternate-leaved Golden Saxifrage.

Other floral highlights, included: Soldanella hungarica (see above middle), Viola alpina (another rock climber), Carpathian Leopardsbane (see above left - Doronicum carpaticum), the fluffy seedheads of Colstfoot, the blue drooping flowers of Primula matthioli, Geranium phaeum (popular in many UK gardens these days), the Carpathian sub-endemic comfrey Symphytum cordatum, the vinegary tasting Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), Blue Bugle (Ajuga genevensis) growing streamside and leaves of the not yet flowering Alpine Delphinium (Delphinium elatum). Butterflies were also enjoyed – the rare migrant to the UK, the Camberwell Beauty, and Duke of Burgundy among others. Then a ‘hushed shout’ ‘Dipper!’; sure enough, flitting up and down the stream was a Dipper, hunting, and prancing on the half-submerged rocks. Yellow-bellied toads littered the brook on our left as we neared the end of our walk. Jane had also spotted Fire Salamander larvae. A few of us heard then saw Red-breasted Flycatcher – us stragglers!

From the gorge we made our way to the Barsa Valley which separated Piatra Craiului from the Persani mountains. We walked along the valley bottom and lower slopes, with the leaves of Autumn Crocus in evidence (really a colchicum and not a crocus), and towards the nearly finished National Park offices and centre, which looked not unlike a modern day Noah’s Ark. Back at Pension Elena for 1700; those of us who were going on a bear watch sat down for a delicious supper and were then whisked away by Gigi back to the Barsa Valley, the top end and beyond to meet with a ranger who would take us up a mountain path to a hide. The hide quiet was only broken by the digestion rumbles of our satiated stomachs and the inevitable repartee that ensued. Sylvie spotted a Red Deer on the opposite side of the valley and after some 45 minutes a single (as in alone, not necessarily unmarried) bear entered the scene below, which we’d been surveying, against a setting sun. This male Brown Bear spent a long time feeding and after it had departed along came a female with a January cub. Something spooked this pair of bears and soon we realised why: a huge male bear with impressive dark-brown-black fur and large milky-coffee coloured head to match, wandered indolently into scene – we overlooked all of this some 150m away. This had been a special viewing. At 2100 and with torches switched on, we carefully headed back to our car and to our beds – after a drink in the comfortable lounge. Day 9 Saturday 23 May Fagaras Mts - Sinca Noua valley; Braşov

Swifts called as we perused the map in Pension Elena’s patio with Cosmin. Breakfast talk had all been about woods and bears. With a starting time of 0930 it wasn’t long before we stopped at Poiana Marului’s supermarket – Mircea and his sausages; it gave us the opportunity to watch a male Black Redstart, its tail matching the roof tiles’ coloration. Shuttle-cock Ferns lined the water course following our road, looking stylish, in the morning light. The understated elegance of several small-flowered Carthusian Pinks in the grass broke the early greyness as we explored the first of our two meadows.

It was here that we saw our first Lesser Spotted Eagle flying in and out of the valley. The meadow contained Serratula lycopifolia, Ragged Robin, Sticky Catchfly, Common Milkwort, Campanula patula, Crosswort and Solomon’s Seal. At the wood edges were stands of Shuttlecock Fern. Gwynne was quite taken by the Viola tricolor. Then as we moved on to the second meadow, we came upon a Lesser Spotted Eagle on a fence post. It remained for a while long enough for the long lenses to do their business before it flew off with a languid flight on arched wings. Wonderful! It was followed by Red-footed Falcon, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel, and another Lesser Spotted Eagle. The second meadow yielded Viola tricolor once more, this time providing a stark contrast with the blue of the salvia, Common Spotted and Early Marsh Orchids, and one or two stands of Iris sibirica near were we had our lunch.

Ellie and Myrcea found us an impressive patterned male Sand Lizard. A Map butterfly and Small Red Damselfly rounded off our day in the field. We now moved onto Braşov. On the way we admired the snowy peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains and a number of places like Ohaba, which had traditional gypsy houses and ornate frontages. Getting to Braşov at 1515 most of us headed for the Cofetarie la Vatra Ardelului, sat down and indulged in proper coffee and cakes – those éclairs, we so deserved for them. Cosmin explained the

city’s origins from 11th century through to this day and we followed him on a preliminary walk, past the Black Church before exploring Braşov’s buildings and coffee culture for ourselves.

House Martins were ensconced in some of the buildings, Black Redstarts on rooves and as we left, a couple of Lesser Spotted Eagles flew over Braşov mobbed by a Buzzard. We returned to Elena’s by 1815, and after a fond farewell to Cosmin, thanking him for his knowledge of the local area and interesting history of the Carpathians, we freshened ourselves before supper and the day’s review. Day 10 Sunday 24 May Return to Bucharest; Pelişor Castle; flight back to UK

Packed and luggage in trailer we said goodbye to our warm and helpful hosts Gigi and Elena and made for Bran Castle and thence to Pelişor Castle at Sinaia, passing Vampire Camping and picturesque mountainous views – the Bucegi Mountains stood proud streaked in snow. Pelişor Castle was impressive, built in 1899-1902 by King Carol I for his nephew Ferdinand (later King Ferdinand) and his wife Queen Marie; today King Michael I is its tenant. Tourists like us, were in as good numbers today Sunday, as yesterday’s cockchafers. The Castle, a mix of styles, looked mostly Bavarian with wild strawberry sellers at its entrance. The meadow had much to offer and the birds were a mix of Siskins, Collared Flycatcher, Great Tit, Firecrest and Robin.

We arrived in good time at the airport and thanked Mircea for his careful driving throughout our holiday, which, regrettably, had now come to an end.

Acknowledgements

My thanks to you all for making the trip such a memorable and successful holiday. Thanks too to Mike my resolute co-leader for his terrific photos - Squacco Heron, Brown Bear, Roller, White-tailed Eagle, Yellow-bellied Toad, Marsh Harrier, Whiskered Terns and Red-necked Grebe, used in this report. All other photos are mine as are any inaccuracies. My thanks to George Panait for all his support with this trip.

Charlie Rugeroni

Vic the

Reaper on

holiday!

ENGLISH NAME

LATIN NAME

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Family Anatidae (Ducks, Geese and Swans)

Mute Swan Cygnus olor

Greylag Goose Anser anser

Shelduck Tadorna tadorna

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Gadwall Anas strepera

Garganey Anas querquedula

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina

Pochard Aythya ferina

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca

Family Phasianidae (Pheasants and Partridges)

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus H H

Quail Coturnix coturnix

Family Podicipedidae (Grebes)

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena

Family Pelecanidae (Pelicans)

White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus

Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus

Family Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants)

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmeus

Family Ardeidae (Herons)

Great Bittern Botaurus stellaris

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

Great White Egret Egretta alba

Squacco Heron Ardeola rolloides

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

Family Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia

Family Ciconiidae (Storks)

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

Black Stork Ciconia nigra

Family Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles and Vultures)

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla

Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca

Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina

Black Kite Milvus migrans

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus

Family Falconidae (Falcons)

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus

Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus

Hobby Falco subbuteo

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

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Family Rallidae (Rails and Crakes)

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Coot Fulica atra

Family Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Family Charadriidae (Plovers)

Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus

Family Scolopacidae (Sandpipers)

Red Knot Calidris canutus

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Little Stint Calidris minuta

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Family Laridae (Gulls)

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus

Mediterranean Gull Ichthyaetus melanocephalus

Great Black-headed Gull Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis

Family Sternidae (Terns)

Little Tern Sternula albifrons

Sandwich Tern Thalasse sandvicensis

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Black Tern Chlidonias niger

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus

Family Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)

Rock Dove/Feral Pigeon Columba livia

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur

Family Cuculidae (Cuckoos)

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus H

Family Strigidae (Owls)

Tawny Owl Strix aluco H

Family Apodidae (Swifts)

Swift Apus apus

Alpine Swift Apus melba

Family Upupidae (Hoopoes)

Hoopoe Upupa epops

Family Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis

Family Meropidae (Bee-eaters)

Bee-eater Merops apiaster H

Family Coraciidae (Rollers)

Roller Coracias garrulus

Family Picidae (Woodpeckers)

Black Woodpecker Dryocopus martius H H

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis

Grey-headed Woodpecker Picus canus H H

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major

Syrian Woodpecker Dendrocopos syriacus

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Family Alaudidae (Larks)

Skylark Alauda arvensis H

Crested Lark Galerida cristata

Woodlark Lullula arborea

Family Hirundinidae (Swallows and Martins)

Sand Martin Riparia riparia

Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris

Swallow Hirundo rustica

House Martin Delichon urbica

Family Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)

Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis

White Wagtail Motacilla (alba) alba

‘Romanian’ Yellow Wagtail Motacilla (flava) dombroskii

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea

Family Troglodytidae (Wrens)

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes H

Family Turdidae (Thrushes)

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos H

Fieldfare Turduds pilaris

Blackbird Turdus merula H

Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis

Family Cinclidae (Dippers)

Dipper Cinclus cinclus

Family Muscicapidae (Flycatchers and Chats)

Robin Erithacus rubecula H

Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos

Thrush Nightingale Luscinia luscinia

Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus H

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros H

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe

Eastern Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica melanoleuca

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva

Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis

Family Sylviidae (Scrub Warblers)

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin H H

Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria H H H

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla H H H

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca

Whitethroat Sylvia communis

Family Acrocephalidae (Reed Warblers)

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus H

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina

Family Locustellidae (Grasshopper Warblers)

Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides H H

Family Phylloscopidae (Leaf Warblers)

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus

Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler Phylloscopus orientalis H

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita H

Family Paridae (Tits)

Great Tit Parus major

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus H

Coal Tit Periparus ater H

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Family Panuridae (Bearded Tit)

Bearded Tit (Reedling) Panurus biarmicus

Family Remizidae (Penduline Tits)

Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinus

Family Laniidae (Shrikes)

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor

Family Corvidae (Crows)

Magpie Pica pica

Jay Garrulus glandarius H H

Jackdaw Corvus monedula

Rook Corvus frugilegus

Hooded Crow Corvus cornix

Raven Corvus corax

Family Sturnidae (Starlings)

Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Family Oriolidae (Orioles)

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus H

Family Passeridae (Sparrows)

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus

Family Fringillidae (Finches)

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs H

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis H

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris

Family Emberizidae (Buntings)

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus

Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra

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AMPHIBIANS

Salamanders and Newts

Fire Salamander Salamandra salamandra

Frogs and Toads

Fire-bellied Toad Bombina bombina H

Yellow-bellied Toad Bombina variegata

Marsh Frog Pelophylax ridibunda H

Pool Frog Rana lessonae

REPTILES

Tortoises and Terrapins

Spur-thighed Tortoise Testudo graeca

European Pond Terrapin Emys orbicularis

Lizards

Balkan Green Lizard Lacerta trilineata

Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis

Slow Worm Anguis fragilis

Snakes

Dice Snake Natrix tessellata

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MAMMALS

Larger Mammals

Brown Bear Ursus arctos

Red Deer Cervus elaphus

Roe Deer Capreolus capreolus

Brown Hare Lepus europaeus

European Souslik Spermophilus citellus

Water Vole Arvicola terrestris

BUTTERFLIES & MOTHS

Scarce Swallowtail Iphiclides podalirius

Orange Tip Anthocharis cardamines

Cluded Yellow Colias crocea

Large Copper Lycaena dispar

Eastern Batton Blue Pseudophilotes vicrama

Green-underside Blue Glaucopsyche alexis

Silver-studded Blue Plebejus argus

Duke of Burgundy Fritillary Hamearis lucina

Camberwell Beauty Nymphalis antiopa

Peacock Inachis io

Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta

Map Araschnia levana

Painted Lady Vanessa cynthia

Queen of Fritillary Issoria lathonia

Cardinal Argynnis pandora

Glanville Fritillary Melitaea cinxia

Freyer’s Fritillary Melitaea arduinna

Small Heath Coenonympha pamphilus

Giant Peacock Saturnia pyri

Mother Shipton Callistege mi

Tau Emperor Aglia tau

DRAGONFLIES & DAMSELFLIES

Banded Demoiselle Calopteryx splendens

Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella

Common Blue Damselfly Enallagma cyathigerum

Red-eyed Damselfly Erythroma najas

Small Red-eyed Damselfly Erythromma viridulum

Small Red Damselfly Ceriagrion tenellum

White-legged Damselfly Platycnemis pennipes

Norfolk Hawker Aeshna isoceles

Lesser Emperor Anax parthenope

Four-spotted Chaser Libellula quadrimaculata

Scarce Chaser Libellula fulva

Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum

OTHER INVERTEBRATES

Common Cockchafer Melolontha meolontha

Ladybird Spider Eresus sandaliatus

WILDLIFE TRAVEL ROMANIA 2015 PLANT LIST

GENUS SPECIES ENGLISH NAME NOTES

Non seed plants

Polypodiales (Ferns)

Matteuccia struthiopteris ostrich fern

Asplenium trichomanes maidenhair spleenwort

Spermatophytes - seed plants

Gymnosperms

Pinaceae: pine

Abies alba silver fir

Picea abies Norway spruce

Angiosperms

Dicotyledons

Adoxaceae Order Dipsacales

Sambucus nigra elder

Viburnum opulus guelder rose

Anacardiaceae: pistacia Order Sapindales

Cotinus coggygria smokebush

Apiaceae: carrot Order Apiales

Astrantia major mountain sanicle

Chaerophyllum hirsutum hairy chervil

Eryngium maritimum sea holly

Apocynaceae: oleander Order Gentianales

Vinca herbacea periwinkle

Araliaceae: ivy Order Apiales

Hedera helix ivy

Aristolochiaceae: birthwort Order Piperales

Aristolochia clematitis

Asarum europeum asarabaca

Asclepiadaceae Order Gentianales

Vincetoxicum hirundinarium swallow-wort

Asteraceae: daisy Order Asterales

Carduus thoermeri thistle

Centaurea rutifolia knapweed

Doronicum carpaticum Carpathian leopardsbane

Jurinea mollis

Petasities albus white butterbur

Petasities spurius woolly butterbur

Serratula lycopifolia

Tragopogon dubius goatsbeard

Trapolium panonicum sea aster

Tussilago farfara coltsfoot

Betulaceae: birch Order Fagales

Alnus glutinosa black alder

Betula pendula silver birch

Boraginaceae: borage Order Boraginales

Anchusa undulata undulated alkanet

Cerinthe auriculata lesser honeywort

Echium vulgare vipers bugloss

GENUS SPECIES ENGLISH NAME NOTES

Pulmonaria rubra lungwort

Symphytum cordatum comfrey

Symphytum officinale common comfrey

Tournefortia sibirica Siberian sea rosemary

Brassicaceae: cabbage Order Brassicales

Cakile maritima sea rocket

Erysium comatum wallflower

Lunaria annua annual honesty

Lunaria rediviva honesty

Cardamine bulbifera coralroot

Peltaria alliacea garlic cress

Campanulaceae: bellflower Order Asterales

Asyneuma anthericoides

Campanula patula spreading bellflower

Cannabaceae Order Rosales

Humulus lupulus hop

Caprifoliaceae: honeysuckle Order Dipsacales

Lonicera xylosteum honeysuckle

Caryophyllaceae: carnation Order Caryophyllales

Dianthus bassarabicus pink

Dianthus carthusianorum Carthusian pink

Dianthus guttatus pink

Lychnis flos-cuculi ragged robin

Lychnis viscaria catchfly

Silene colorata Mediterranean catchfly

Silene conica sand catchfly

Silene nutans Nottingham catchfly

Pergularia Media greater sea-spurrey

Stellaria nemorum wood stitchwort

Convolvulaceae: bindweed Order Solanales

Calystegia sepium

Convolvulus arvensis hedge bindweed

Convolvulus persicus sand bindweed

Cornaceae Order Cornales

Cornus mas dogwood

Corylaceae: hazel Order Fagales

Alnus glutinosa alder

Alnus incana grey alder

Carpinus orientalis hornbeam

Corylus avellana hazel

Elaeagnaceae Order Rosales

Eleagnus angustifolia INT Oleaster

Fabaceae: pea Order Fabales

Amorpha fruticosa INT false indigo bush

Astragalus vesicarius milkweed

Lathyrus tuberosus pea

Lotus corniculatus birdsfoot trefoil

Lotus sativa INT lucerne

GENUS SPECIES ENGLISH NAME NOTES

Onobrychis viciifolia

Robinia pseudoacacia false acacia

Vicia villosa hairy vetch

Fagaceae: beech Order Fagales

Fagus sylvatica beech

Quercus petraea sessile oak

Quercus pubescens pubescent oak

Geraniaceae: geranium Order Geraneales

Erodium cicutarium common storksbill

Geranium phaeum dusky cranesbill

Geranium robertianum herb Robert

Geranium sanguineum bloody cranesbill

Hydrocharitaceae: freshwater and marine acquatics Order Lamiales

Stratiodes aloides water soldier

Lamiaceae: mint Order Lamiales

Ajuga chaemaepitys ground pine

Ajuga genevensis Geneva bugle

Ajuga lamanii bugle

Ajuga reptans bugle

Glechoma hederacea ground ivy

Lamium album white dead nettle

Lamium galeobdolon yellow archangel

Lamium garganicum Gargano dead nettle

Lamium maculatum spotted dead nettle

Lycopus europaeus gipsywort

Mentha aquatica water mint

Prunella vulgaris self heal

Salvia nemorosa woodland sage

Salvia nutans nodding sage

Salvia pratense meadow clary

Salvia verticillata whorled clary

Thymus glabrescens thyme

Linaceae: flax Order Malpighiales

Linum perenne perennial flax

Lythraceae Order Myrtales

Trapa natans water chestnut

Malvaceae Order Malvales

Tilia tomentosa silver lime

Nymphaeaceae Order Nymphaeales

Nuphar lutea yellow water lily

Nymphaea alba white water lily

Oxalidaceae: oxalis Order Oxalidales

Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel

Paeoniaceae: paeony Order Saxifragales

Paeonia peregrina paeony

Papaveraceae: poppy Order Ranuncuales

Chelidonium majus greater celandine

Papaver rhoeas corn poppy

GENUS SPECIES ENGLISH NAME NOTES

Plantaginaceae: plantain Order Lamiales

Globularia bisnagarica

Plantago media hoary plantain

Plantago lanceolata ribwort plantain

Veronica prostrata prostrate speedwell

Polygalaceae Order Fabales

Polygala comosa tufted milkwort

Polygala vulgaris common milkwort

Polygonaceae: dock Order Caryophyllales

Polygonum amphibium amphibious bistort

Rumex obtusifolius broad-leaved dock

Primulaceae: primula Order Ericales

Cortusa matthioli Alpine bells

Lysimachia nummularia creeping jenny

Primula elatior oxslip

Primula veris cowslip

Soldanella hungarica Hungarian snowbell

Ranunculaceae: buttercup Order Ranunculales

Adonis aestivalis summer pheasant's eye

Caltha palustris marsh marigold

Clematis alpina Alpine clematis

Clematis recta erect clematis

Consolida orientalis eastern larkspur

Delphinium elatum Alpine delphinium leaves

Helleborus viridis green hellebore

Hepatica transsilvanica Transylvanian hepatica leaves

Resedaceae: mignonette Order Brassicales

Reseda lutea mignionette

Rosaceae: rose Order Rosales

Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet

Potentilla anserina silverweed

Potentilla erecta tormentil

Spiraea chamaedryfolia

Rubiaceae: madder Order Gentianales

Cruciata laevipes crosswort y

Galium album hedge bedstraw

Galium odoratum sweet woodruff

Salicaceae: willow Order Santiales

Populus nigra black poplar

Salix cinerea grey willow

Santalaceae: sandalwood Order Santiales

Viscum album mistletoe

Saxifragaceae Order Saxifragales

Chrysosplenium alternifolium Alternate-leaved golden saxifrage

Saxifraga corymbosa

Saxifraga cuneifolia

Scrophulariaceae: foxglove Order Lamiales

Verbascum phoeniceum purple mullein y

GENUS SPECIES ENGLISH NAME NOTES

Solanaceae: nightshade (tomato) Order Solanales

Hyoscymus niger black henbane

Tamaricaceae: tamarix Order Caryophyllales

Tamarix ramosissima

Valerianaceae: valerian Order Dipsacales

Valeriana officinalis wild valerian

Valeriana tripteris

Violaceae: violet Order Malpighiales

Viola alpina

Viola biflora yellow wood violet

Viola canina heath dog violet

Viola declinata

Viola tricolor heartsease

Monocotyledons

Alismataceae Order Alismatales

Alisma plantago water plantain

Sagittaria sagitifolia arrowhead

Araceae Order Alismatales

Lemna minor lesser duckweed

Utricularia vulgaris bladderwort

Butomaceae Order Alismatales

Butomus umbellatus flowering rush

Colchicaceae Order Liliales

Colchicum autumnale autumn colchicum

Iridaceae: iris Order Asparagales

Iris pseudacorus yellow flag

Iris sibirica Siberian flag iris

Iris sintenisii

Liliaceae: lily Order Liliales

Polygonatum multiflorum Solomon's seal

Veratrum nigrum black false helleborine

Orchidaceae: orchid Order Asparagales

Dactylorhiza fuchsii common spotted orchid

Dactylorhiza incarnata early marsh orchid

Dactylorhiza saccifera

Gymnadenia conopsea fragrant orchid

Limodorum abortivum

violet limodore/violet bird’s

nest orchid

Orchis purpurea lady orchid

Platanthera chlorantha greater butterfly orchid

Poaceae: grass Order Poales

Phragmites communis common reed

Potamogetonaceae Order Alismatales

Potamogeton natans floating pond weed

Trapa natans water chestnut

Typhaceae: reedmace Order Poales

Typha angustifolia lesser reedmace