ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF THE MIDDLE EAST, CAUCASUS AND CENTRAL ASIA OSME OSME was founded in 1978 as the successor to the Ornithological Society of Turkey. Its primary aims are: @ To collect, collate, and publish data on all aspects of the birds of the Middle East. # To promote an interest in ornithology and bird conservation throughout the Middle East. ® To develop productive working relationships with other governmental and non-governmental organisations with an interest in conservation and/or natural history in the region. MEMBERSHIP OSME is open to all, and its membership spans over 40 countries. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP Individual £15 (UK address) £20 (Europe) £20 (Surface mail outside Europe) £25 (Airmail outside Europe) Institutions £30 (Add £5 for Airmail) Write to the Membership Secretary at the address below for a membership form detailing methods of payment and also rates for Family, Supporting and Life membership. For any other information on the Society, write to the Secretary at the same address. PUBLICATIONS OSME publishes a scientific journal, Sandgrouse, containing papers, news and features on all aspects of Middle Eastern ornithology. Published twice yearly, it is issued free to members. Further copies are available for sale from OSME. MEETINGS An Annual General Meeting is held in London at which guest speakers provide new perspectives on ornithology in the region. There are also occasional special meetings, some taking place outside the UK. PROJECTS OSME organises field expeditions to collect data on birds in little-known parts of the region and in areas where OSME can assist by teaming up with local groups. The Conservation & Research Committee grants funds to valuable field projects and desk studies which further knowledge and conservation of birds in the region. Grants have been awarded to over 45 projects since the Conservation & Research Fund was set up in 1982. ) VICE PRESIDENTS: Imad Atrash Sherif Baha El Din B. Behrouzi-Rad Dr Ghassan & Mrs Mona Ramadan-Jaradi Dr Saeed Mohamed Dr Omar Al-Saghier Dr Yossi Leshem COUNCIL AS AT FEBRUARY 2003: Dawn Balmer Publicity & Displays John Bartley - secretary@osme.org Acting Secretary Pat Bartley (co-opted) - Keith Betton - chairman@osme.org Chairman Chris Bradshaw - c&r@osme.org Conservation & Research Ray Daniel Librarian Andrew Grieve Advertising & Website Chris Harbard (co-opted) Rod Martins Turkey Bird Report (co-opted) Tony Morris - fundraiser@osme.org Fundraising David Murdoch (co-opted) Effie Warr - sales@osme.org Sales & Distribution (co-opted) John Warr - membership@osme.org Treasurer & Membership © 2003 Ornithological Society of the Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asia ISSN 0260-4736 Registered charity no 282938 c/o THE LODGE, SANDY, BEDFORDSHIRE SG19 2DL, UK OSME WEs SITE - http://www.osme.org Contents SANDGROUSE oe Volume 25 (1) 4 NEWS AND INFORMATION 8 Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 EbITED By Guy M. KIRWAN, Editor METEHAN OZEN, BAHTIYAR Kurt AND R. P. MARTINS Guy M. Kirwan 32 How much do we know about the Caucasian Black Grouse Features Editor Tetrao mlokosiewiczi? RAMAZ GOKHELASHVILI, KERRY P. REESE Situation Vacant AND LEXO GAVASHELISHVILI Assistant Editor Al The current breeding status of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Dawn Balmer in Azerbaijan ELCHIN SULTANOV AND NIGAR AGAYEVA Editorial Committee 49 The spatial and temporal behaviour of a Common Swift Apus apus Michael Blair, colony in Tel Aviv ULRICH TIGGES Paul Goriup, Mike Jennings 3) Observations on birds in Tajikistan, April-May 1997 DavibD MURDOCH Rodney Martins, GO : 59 Some unusual patterns of bird migration in Uzbekistan, spring 2002 Peter L. Meininger ELENA KREUZBERG-MUKHINA & Dr Stephen Newton 63 The first Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis in Bulgaria DIMITAR N. RAGYOV, LUDMILLA G. POPOVA-WIGHTMAN, KONSTANTIN S. PoPpov, SVETLA Y. DALAKCHIEVA, BORIS P. NIKOLOV AND IVAILO P. NIKOLOV Photographic Editor Paul Doherty Design & Production Harry |. Scott 65 The first Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis in Armenia lent ifica ha Consultants VASIL ANANIAN AND PETER DE ROUW eo Diadshiaw, 67 The first records of Grey-headed Gull Larus cirrocephalus in Egypt Arnoud B. van den Berg JOHAN ELMBERG AND LOTHAR MULLER & Steve Madge 69 _—s*The first Radde’s Accentor Prunella ocularis in Lebanon THIERRY BARA 70 REVIEWS & RECENT LITERATURE 76 AROUND THE REGION DAWN BALMER AND KEITH BETTON Front and back cover photographs: Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus taken by Hadoram Shirihai at Gamla Gorge Nature Reserve, Israel, autumn 2002. Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2-4 2003 ~ OSME’S 25TH BIRTHDAY The 27 April 1978 was a significant day for Middle Eastern ornithology—it was the date when OSME was born! So now, after a quarter of a century, it is time to look back and remember some of the events that happened along the way. However, we should not forget that OSME was born from the Ornithological Society of Turkey (OST). During its ten years, OST brought together enthusiasts from many corners of Europe to focus on Turkey’s impressive birdlife. A committee, chaired by the late William Wilkinson, with a number of familiar names including Alan Kitson, Richard Porter, Mike Harrison, Mark Beaman and the late Don Parr, decided OST’s destiny. As OST decided to widen its interests and change to OSME, it also launched Sandgrouse, and with it came our logo—designed by Ian Willis. The new organisation attracted a larger membership, and while William Wilkinson remained in the chair it also had the support of an impressive cast of international vice presidents. When Richard Porter took over as Chairman in 1982 work started on the OSME Sites Register, and the Conservation & Research Committee was formed to make grants to. worthy projects. 1985 saw the first OSME Expedition—nine weeks of field work in North Yemen during which 13 species were added to the country checklist. As OSME entered its tenth year, Mike Rands assumed the chair and the Society was benefiting from great support from its members, with over 100 people attending the AGM that year. 1990 saw the first (and so far only) overseas meeting of the Society—in the 2 Netherlands for two days in September. Sadly plans for an expedition to Turkey had to be abandoned. As Geoff Welch took over the chair in 1992 plans were in an advanced stage for another expedition—again to Yemen, in March—May 1993. 1996 saw the merging of the OSME Bulletin and Sandgrouse and a dramatic change in publishing style. The OSME website was created, giving the Society the opportunity to reach new members and potential grant recipients within the Middle East and elsewhere. Andrew Grieve became Chairman in 1997 and shortly after the OSME/NHBS Book Award was announced, which provides much-needed literature to field workers in the region. With the huge growth in the use of e-mail, 1999 saw the creation of MEBirdNet—a discussion group on Middle Eastern birding, moderated by OSME. As we entered the new millennium, OSME decided to ‘expand’ further east, into the Caucasus and Central Asia, and to incorporate some of the newly created countries that were formerly part of Russia. As the region expanded, a team of 22 Country Contacts was appointed to help the Society communicate better with field workers in each country. However, plans to mount an expedition to Iran were placed on hold as a result of the worldwide tension following the terrorist attacks in the U. S. A. in September 2001. It is now 35 years since the foundation of OST, and 25 years after its conversion to OSME. Many people have helped the Society reach this stage, and I have mentioned only a few in the paragraphs above. I want to take this opportunity to warmly thank all of them—vice presidents, chairmen, secretaries, treasurers, editors and council members—for their huge amount of work and what they have achieved for the region’s ornithology. As for the future, your Council is not short of enthusiasm and we have just undertaken a review of the opportunities that lie ahead. If I have one frustration as your new Chairman it is that too often I meet birdwatchers that regularly visit the Middle East but have never joined OSME. This is a situation that we must work hard to change. Similarly, I want to ensure that we manage to make contact with nationals in the Middle East and Central Asia who are working at the forefront of bird conservation and field work. In particular, we must support the work already being done by BirdLife Middle East. There is much for OSME to do, and all of us on Council welcome feedback and input. You will find our names and contact details on the inside cover. Keith Betton OSME SUMMER MEETING 19 JULY 2003 With this copy of Sandgrouse you will have received details of the 2003 Summer Meeting and AGM. This will be held on Saturday 19 July. As it 1s our 25th birthday, we are delighted that speakers will include Richard Porter, Ian Wallace and David Murdoch. We are also delighted that a number of Middle Eastern birders will attend the event, including Adnan Budieri of BirdLife Middle East. The event commences at 11.00 and will be held at the offices of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), 68-71 Newman Street, London WIT 3AH. This is a new venue, being mid-way between three underground stations: Goodge Street, Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Circus. Car parking can be found in Clipstone Street and Berners Street. OSME COUNTRY CONTACTS Please note the following changes of e-mail and/or postal address: Cyprus Peter Flint prf@sunnycyprus.net Kuwait Tom Spencer stspencerkwt@yahoo.co.uk KES, P. O. Box 8640 Salmiya, 22057, Kuwait. Syria Gianluca Serra gianlu@scs-net.org Uzbekistan Elena Kreuzberg-Mukhina iucn_uz@bcc.com.uz BIRDS OF SYRIA NOW AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH In 1995 Wolfgang Baumgart finished his excellent work on the birds of Syria. Published in German, it reviewed the current and past status of each species, and presented valuable information concerning the geography and ecological conditions within OSME News the country. With the recent upsurge of interest in Syria’s birdlife, OSME has translated the book into English. Wolfgang Baumgart has also added some extra notes from recently published papers. Our grateful thanks go to him and to Max Kasparek for their cooperation, and to OSME members Tony Bannister, Gary Bletsch, Brian Hillcoat and Christian Neumann for translating a total of 50,000 words! Copies of the English version are available from OSME Sales for £10/€15.50 including postage. OSME SUPPORTS BALD IBIS SEARCH IN SYRIA Final plans are underway for important field work to search the remote gorges of central Syria in the hope of finding additional breeding colonies of Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita in 2004. No observations of the species had been documented from Syria since 1928 until the discovery last April that at least one colony persists in the Palmyra region, at which three young were reared in 2002, and three pairs had returned to the area in early 2003. This was perhaps the most significant ornithological discovery in the Middle East during the last 30 years, and OSME is pleased to announce that it is supporting the important field work being coordinated by BirdLife Middle East. OSME has donated £1000 from its Conservation & Research Fund to help cover the local expenses of four European volunteer birders who will join the Syrians in searching for more colonies. Five potential areas with cliffs of a sufficient height to support ibis colonies have been identified. All five will be visited so that they can be checked. The search teams will be accompanied by an experienced ranger who will interview local people with the aid of a questionnaire. Areas where indications of ibis colonies are promising will be revisited when any breeding activity should be underway. OSME SUPPORTS FIELD WORKERS IN ARMENIA OSME has awarded a grant of $700 from its Conservation & Research Fund to support vital work at the Armash Fish Farm in Armenia. Vasil Ananian, the recipient of the award, will coordinate monthly bird counts at the site, focusing on globally threatened species such as Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris and White-headed 3 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 4-7 2003 Duck Oxyura leucocephala, and will identify those habitats of greatest importance to birds. One of the most important aspects of the project is to train local enthusiasts and amateurs in the basics of bird identification, and encourage them to assist the survey. BRITISH BIRDWATCHING FAIR Once again OSME had a high profile at the British Birdwatching Fair at Rutland in August 2002. Many members visited the Society’s stand including Middle East birdwatchers Imad Atrash from Palestine, Yossi Leshem, Dan Alon and Reuven Yosef from Israel, Hanne & Jens Eriksen from Oman, Colin Richardson from Dubai and Sharif Al-Jbour NEWS The aim of this section is to inform readers about events in the OSME region. It relies on members and others supplying relevant news and information. If you have anything concerning birds, conservation or development in the OSME area please send it to News and Information, OSME, c/o The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, U. K. This section is not intended as a definitive report or write-up of the projects concerned. Many of the projects are sponsored; such support is appreciated but is not generally given acknowledgement here. GENERAL For birds and people in the Jordan Valley A new BirdLife International-European Commission initiative was recently launched to promote ecologically sustainable development in the Conservation areas will be established to promote land management, local education, tourism and research programmes, and birdwatching monitoring centres, to the benefit of local people and the environment in an area that has experienced widespread habitat loss and rapid industrialisation, with associated high levels of pollution from pesticides, herbicides, factory and sewerage waste. The programme will focus on birds, which are excellent indicators of the state of + INFORMATION compiled by Dawn Balmer & Guy M. Kirwan Jordan Valley. from Jordan. This is a very important event in the OSME calendar, and our grateful thanks go to all the volunteers who gave freely of their time to help on the stand. We also greatly appreciate the financial assistance given by Carl Zeiss to offset a significant part of our stand costs. Thanks are also due to those companies that provided prizes for the stand: In Focus, Bird Guides, Mondell, Clive Byers, Mark Chester, Bird Images, Subbuteo, Biota, Alana Ecology, Alula, the Wildlife Trusts, Gilleard Brothers, Birdwatch, Wildsounds, Tim Loseby and CJ Wildbird Foods. The 2003 British Birdwatching Fair will be held at Rutland Water on 15-17 August. OSME will be there in force! the environment. Each year millions of migrants pass through the valley, mainly to and from their European breeding and African wintering grounds, including significant numbers of Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina and White Stork Ciconia ciconia. The project will be co-ordinated by the BirdLife International Middle East Division and implemented by BirdLife partners in the region, the Palestine Wildlife Society (PWS), the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSCN) and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI). The European Commission is providing financial backing for two years. (Source: World Birdwatch 24 (2): 9.) Vulture decline in southern Asia In recent years there have been a massive population declines of Gyps vultures in southern Asia, with probably more than 100,000 vultures having died. Various organisations are presently studying vultures in the Indian subcontinent in order to determine the reasons for these events. Other studies are focusing on monitoring breeding populations, as in Pakistan nesting success is apparently lower than sustainable. Though the cause of the mortalities has not yet been determined, various reasons have been proposed, including an infectious disease and exposure Dawn Balmer & Guy M. Kirwan News & Information to toxins. What is known is that many (>75%) of the dead vultures examined possessed visceral gout, which in birds is due to either primary or secondary renal insufficiency. To date no proximate cause for the visceral gout has been identified. Dr Lindsay Oaks, from Washington State University, is working with The Peregrine Fund on the Asian Vulture Crisis project and is seeking to monitor the causes of death of Gyps vultures in Europe, Africa and Asia. In particular, he is very interested in the prevalence of visceral gout, or if there is an associated increase in mortality. He has compiled a simple questionnaire that can be completed for all dead vultures that are found. For participants at veterinary institutions and/or diagnosis facilities, more detailed information about the results of necropsy findings and laboratory testing would be very helpful. It would also be desirable if the veterinary/diagnosis facilities could retain certain samples, outlined in the document, for potential future testing. Dr Oaks will collate and periodically distribute the information to all participants. If you are able to participate, please contact Dr Lindsay Oaks (loaks@vetmed.wsu.edu) or Mark Anderson (manderson@grand. neape.gov.za), who will e-mail the questionnaire. (Source: Mark Anderson in litt. October 2002.) Bird road casualties Johannes Erritzoe has produced a synthesis dealing with this subject, entitled ‘Bird traffic casualties and road quality for breeding birds—a summary of existing papers with a bibliography’, which i available. from his: -website, www.birdresearch.dk. This appears to be the first complete summary of ornithological - papers on this serious problem. The Zoological Record has never presented papers concerning traffic accidents. Nevertheless, c. 300 articles in many languages have been accessed by the author. Some of the important works are in Danish and Swedish with little or no English abstract, and therefore virtually unknown to the. English-speaking. world. (Source: Johannes Erritzoe in litt. December 2002.) IRAN Threats to Hamun Lake region The Iranian government is requesting the authorities in Afghanistan help restore the Seistan Basin lakes in eastern Iran, which are dry following four years of drought since the Helmand River was dammed by the Taliban. The Hamun lake region is now in crisis, with acute political and social problems, impacting on the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in both countries. This once vibrant area, known for its abundant wetlands, biodiversity and natural productivity has been lost. The region, which comprises three interconnected lakes in south-east Iran and south-west Afghanistan, once covered 4000 km’. At its peak, the area was an ecologically important area with 150 bird species and 140 fish species recorded. Being one of the only sources of fresh water for thousands of km, it was a principal staging area for migrant birds. Agricultural lands have been devastated by desertification, while entire villages have been deserted and populations displaced as pressure on local resources intensifies. Tehran has pledged. US$560 million of reconstruction assistance to Afghanistan, yet until now this money has not been released, in part due to mistrust between the two governments. (Source: Oxfam.) Zoology in the Middle East One of the most recent issues of Zoology in the Middle East (26) is dedicated wholly to Iran’s wildlife, and contains a unique collection of papers prepared by both Iranian and foreign scientists. The compilation was largely handled by Prof. Dr Bahram Kiabi (Shaheed Beheshti University, Tehran) and Prof. Dr C. Naumann (Museum Alexander Koenig, Bonn) who served as guest editors. For further details visit www.kasparek-verlag.de or contact Kasparek Verlag (e-mail: Kasparek@t- online.de). (Source: Kasparek Verlag.) Siberian Crane news A regional GEF project, Development of a Wetland Site and Flyway Network for Conservation of the Siberian Crane and Other Migratory Waterbirds in Asia, is due to commence in March 2003. Led by the International Crane Foundation, the project was designed in collaboration with represen- tatives from the governments of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Russian Federation, China, and Kazakhstan, with full support from UNEP/GEF. The proposal will contribute to a major international initiative for the conservation of the Siberian White Crane Grus leucogeranus as a flagship for the preservation of wetland sites and their biodiversity. The project seeks to protect a network of globally significant wetlands along two flyways, used by many threatened migratory waterbirds including Siberian White Crane, in eastern Dawn Balmer & Guy M. Kirwan 5 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 and western Asia. During the successful PDF Block B phase of the GEF grant, U. S. $350,000 was provided to the four countries to undertake an analysis of the threats faced by these wetlands. Strategies to manage these threats, while balancing human and wildlife needs, were carefully designed at site, national, and international levels. Key stakeholder groups, including federal government, local governments and local user groups, were involved in crafting the proposal. The steering committee has endorsed a proposal requesting U. S. $10 million in GEF funding for the four partici- pating countries over a six-year period, from 2003 to 2008. Iran will receive U. 5. $1 million to execute activities at the wetlands identified during the project-design phase. In late 2002, three Siberian White Cranes arrived at their traditional wintering grounds in the southern Caspian Sea, an adult pair and one other individual, and were accompanied by a Common Crane Grus grus chick. In order to increase this fragile population, three captive-bred Siberian White Cranes from Russia have been brought to Iran and are due to be released to hopefully join the wild population. (Source: Sadegh Sadeghi Zadegan in litt. January 2003.) New website Information on birdwatching in northern Iran with some _ practical information, including maps, can be found at: www.medlem.spray.se/davidgorgan/excursi ons.html. (Source: Middle East BirdNet.) TURKEY Great Bustard population in Turkey much smaller than previously thought The Great Bustard Otis tarda is a globally threatened species, facing threats such as habitat loss, hunting, collision with powerlines and human disturbance. In Turkey the breeding population had been estimated at 800-3000 pairs, but large gaps exist in our knowledge of the species’ in-country distribution, habitat selection and movements. Notably, almost nothing was known about the presence or absence of this species in Eastern Anatolia. The species’ international action plan lists as a priority a national survey in Turkey. Further, given dramatic alterations to the vast areas of steppe and pseudo- steppe rangeland in Turkey, an integrated plan for the conservation of the Great Bustard is urgently needed. In 2002 the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), BirdLife International and the Dutch government Ministry of Agriculture funded a survey of the species in eastern Turkey. This produced a better understanding of the species’ conservation status and distri- bution in this part of the country. Unfortunately, the results were not encouraging. Only 251 bustards were counted in eastern Anatolia, giving a minimum total estimate for the country of only 500 birds. The survey team covered nearly all primary plain steppes and agricultural areas associated with such areas in eastern Turkey, as well as some montane steppes. The largest group of birds, 145 in the Bulanik Important Bird Area (IBA), was in a site that is threatened by a dam. In general, the team noted widespread agricultural intensification, with many irrigation schemes completed or being constructed in the Bulanik Plain. Overgrazing appears to be general, and hunting and disturbance by humans are also significant problems. A reedbed with breeding Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus and Great White Egret Egretta alba (the last remaining breeding colony in Anatolia) was also discovered in the area. An extension to the boundaries of the Bulanik IBA is required following this discovery. The second-most important area for Great Bustard, near Mus, is a government-owned agricultural estate of 70,000 ha, where at least 46 were counted. This is a superb area for the birds, with good breeding and feeding habitats, a mosaic of crops, and little or no human disturbance, hunting or grazing. Following this discovery, the adjacent Mus Plain IBA needs to be enlarged to cover this important part of the plain. Throughout the autumn and winter of 2002-03, several public awareness activities at the most important sites for the Great Bustard in eastern Turkey took place, and in early 2003 the Great Bustard project officer will produce a draft national action plan for the species. (Source: José Tavares in litt. September 2002.) White-headed Duck monitoring in Turkey The White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala is a globally threatened species that has undergone a rapid decline during the last 100 years. The main causes of decline are hunting and destruction of its habitats. Turkey is of global importance for the species in winter. In the early 1990s more than two-thirds of its world population wintered in Turkey, and Burdur Golti is perhaps the most important Dawn Balmer & Guy M. Kirwan wintering site for the species in the world. Turkey also holds a breeding population estimated at 200-300 pairs. As part of a project led and funded by the Hellenic Ornithological Society (the BirdLife International. partner in Greece), the movements, wintering and breeding of the species were simultaneously monitored in four countries (Turkey, Greece, Romania and Bulgaria) during the last year. In Turkey, more than 80 volunteers from several birdwatching clubs participated in the fieldwork, which was organised by DHKD (the Turkish BirdLife partner). They found that Burdur held no more than 1200 wintering White-headed Duck, many fewer than the record counts of the past (peak of 11,000). The Kizilirmak Delta (Black Sea Coastlands) produced high numbers (over 120) in November—December and March, as the species migrates through the area. The survey also demonstrated an alarming decrease in the number of breeding pairs in the Central Anatolian lakes. While 2001 was a very dry year in Turkey, the general destruction of wetlands and the unsustainable use of water are thought to be the main causes of the decline. The most important breeding site for the species in Turkey is now Kulu Gélt, south of Ankara. During the 2001 breeding season 120 birds were regularly observed there. (Source: José Tavares in litt. September 2002.) Gediz Delta threatened by developers The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is working with the Turkish BirdLife partner (DHKD) to secure the protection of part of the Gediz Delta, one of the most -important coastal wetlands in _ the Mediterranean. The site, close to Izmir, the third-largest Turkish city, has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) for its populations of Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus, Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni and Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cineracea, and wintering Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis, all of which are globally threatened species. The conservation importance of the area has also been recognised by the Turkish authorities, and the wetland is partially protected as a Ramsar Site (by the Ministry of Environment), as a Game Reserve (by the Ministry of Forestry) and as a combination of First and Second Degree Protection Areas (by the Culture Ministry). A News & Information complete survey of bird populations in the delta was completed in spring 2002, and as a result DHKD has written to all of the above- mentioned authorities requesting an extension of the protected area to some important mud islands and to the course of a former river bed. However, some developers have recently lobbied for the downgrading of some areas in the reserve, which prompted DHKD and others to launch a campaign to secure the area’s protected status. (Source: José Tavares in litt. September 2002.) Bald Ibis enjoys successful breeding season in Turkey The Turkish Bald Ibis population became extinct in the wild in 1989, but a semi- wild population persists at Birecik, free-flying from March to July, and breeding around specially constructed large aviaries. The population had reduced to 42 birds by 2000, but partly due to intensive monitoring by a Turkish ornithologist, funded by the RSPB, the 2002 breeding season was extremely successful, with 17 young surviving to date. A project to ensure that the ibis persist in a semi-wild state, and maintain options for restoring their wild status, is being undertaken by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), DHKD (the Turkish BirdLife partner) and the Ministry of Forestry, which owns the site. (Source: José Tavares in litt. September 2002.) YEMEN The Yemen Society for the Protection of Wildlife or Wildlife Yemen was established in January 2002. The aims of the society are: to work with people towards conserving Yemen wildlife; promote sustainable use of natural resources and biodiversity; work towards conserving Yemen birds and their habitats; raise awareness among communities towards sustainable use of natural resources; monitor site biodiversity for productivity and biological values; and strive to build-up national’ capacity in conservation and sustainable use of natural and biological resources. Membership stands at 150 and is open to all. Members from outside Yemen are encouraged to visit and take part in projects. For further details contact: Yemen Society for the Protection of Wildlife, Sana’a, P. O. Box 197597 “Republic “of “Yemen: ~E-maul: wildlife.yemen@y.net.ye or omarbio@ y-net.ye. (Source: Omar Al-Saghier, Director and Chief Executive.) Dawn Balmer & Guy M. Kirwan Sandgrouse 25 (1): 8-31 2003 Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 EDITED BY GUY M. KIRWAN, METEHAN OZEN, BAHTIYAR KURT AND R. P. MARTINS HIS REPORT, COVERING THE YEARS 1997-2001, has been compiled jointly by GMK, MO, BK and RPM, with assistance from Tim Marlow. Regular readers of these reports will immediately notice that this compilation is the first to be co-edited by an Anglo-Turkish team, welcome reflection of the rapid growth in the numbers of active Turkish birdwatchers, which hopefully will be further fuelled by the recent publication of a well-illustrated and accurate field guide in Turkish (see Sandgrouse 24: 5-6). A vast increase in the number of in-country birdwatchers submitting records to this report is a particularly heartening illustration of this development. A number of changes to the current report, in comparison to recent compilations, are worthy of comment. Several species not included in the most recent or, in some cases, a number of previous reports, e.g. Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca, Velvet Scoter Melaniita fusca, Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus, Spotted Aquila clanga and Imperial Eagles A. heliaca, Black Dryocopus martius and White-backed Woodpeckers Dendrocopos leucotos, and Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cineracea, are included here. These ‘readoptions’ chiefly reflect gsrowing concern for these species at either national or global levels, but in a smaller number have been prompted by the availability of novel and sometimes surprising information concerning their status and distribution, garnered during the period. Other changes have been more cosmetic. In the list of observers that closes the main report, we have elected to include years for which observations were submitted only for non-Turkish residents. An ornithological survey of the Konya Basin, organised by DHKD in spring/summer 1998, was successful not only in acquiring a significant body of information on the threatened species for which the region is important, but also in elucidating the range and status of many species that were previously poorly known on the Central Plateau. Records from the survey are listed according to the relevant 10-km square code (see Fig. 2) for two reasons: in the interests of space and to nominally protect the whereabouts of several very rare breeding species in the country. This project was one of several conducted during the period, others being in the South-East and Southern Coastlands, that substantially contributed to our knowledge of bird distributions in Turkey. Highlights of the present report include a new species for Turkey, Hoopoe Lark Alaemon alaudipes (already mentioned by Kirwan et al. 1999) and possibly two others, Relict Gull Larus relictus and Spotless Starling Sturnus unicolor, as well as the fourth record of Eider Somateria mollisima, the largest numbers for many years of Smew Mergus albellus (in both 1996 and 1999), the first record for well over a decade of Black- winged Kite Elanus caeruleus, the second and third definite records of Sooty Falcon Falco concolor, a spate of new records and two apparent breeding localities for the poorly known Little Bustard Tetrao tetrix, the second records of Spotted Sandgrouse Pterocles senegallus and Blyth’s Reed Warbler Acrocepahlus dumetorum, several records of Tengmalm’s Owl Aegolius funereus, the first Desert Wheatears Oenanthe deserti for over a decade, the first European record of Upcher’s Warbler Hippolais languida, the fourth and fifth records of Cyprus Warbler Sylvia melanothorax, and the first record for over 20 years of Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos. 8 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 The next report will cover the period 2002-2006 and records are now requested. Photographs for inclusion would be most welcome. Contributors may either send photographs with records or list those species for which they are available so that they may be requested at a later date. Material should be sent to any one of the four editors, at any of the addresses at the foot of this report, or preferably to: Turkey Bird Report, OSME, c/o The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, U. K., or by e-mail to: turkishbirdreport@osme.org. Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 9 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Figure 1 (opposite). Map of Turkey showing the regional subdivisions employed in the Turkey Bird Report. | Black Sea Coastlands: (a) Western Coastal; (b) Western Inland; (c) Eastern Coastal; (d) Eastern Inland. ll Thrace. Ill Western Anatolia: (a) Marmara; (b) Bergama; (c) Izmir. IV Southern Coastlands: (a) Western Taurus; (b) Main Taurus; (c) Seyhan Lowland; (d) Anti-Taurus. V Central Piateau: (a) Sakarya; (b) Enclosed Basins; (c) Kizilirmak. VI South-East: (a) Middle Euphrates; (b) Mesopotamian Rise; (c) Upper Tigris; (d) Montane South-East. Vil East: (a) Upper Euphrates; (b) Van; (c) Upper Aras. | @ 94K § Figure 2 (above). Map of the Konya Basin showing the 10-km square system employed during the 1998 survey and in this report for records made during the relevant field work. Each of the larger squares, indicated by a two-letter code, covers 100km x 100km, with smaller squares being of 10km x 10km. Each of the latter is numbered west to east, and north to south. Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata ; Previously considered a very rare winter visitor to Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Recent observations suggest it may be regular but uncommon in winter along Black Sea coast (Hales 1996, Welch & Welch 1998a). Has occurred inland in East. Black Sea Coastlands: 16 along extent of Black Sea coast 16 Jan—7 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). Kizilirmak Delta 19 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Thrace: Mert Gol, Igsneada: 2, 3 Feb 01 (KB); 20 Jan 01 (IKGT). Western Anatolia: Oren, Burhaniye 29 Jan 97 (ONK). 2, Gediz Delta 14 Feb 97 (GE). Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Vagrant or very scarce winter visitor. No records in 1974—90. Western Anatolia: 4, Oren, Burhaniye 29 Jan 97 (KB). Southern Coastlands: Goéksu Delta Feb 89 (A. Akin; Bradshaw & Kirwan 2000) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. South-East: Cinar-Goksu Dam, Diyarbakir 22 Apr 99 (Karakas & Kilig 2002). 10 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea Fairly widespread and locally not uncommon summer visitor to Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Occasionally recorded from Sea of Marmara and from Black Sea coast. Probably remains under-recorded; perhaps breeds but conclusive evidence lacking. Thrace: Saros K6rfezi: 2, 12 May 01 (AA); 3, 13 Aug 01 (SBa). Canakkale Bogaz1: 10, 11 Mar 01 (BA); 9 Aug 97 (AIT). Western Anatolia: 10, Dilek Yarimadasi, Kusadasi 26 Jul 97 (YT). Resadiye Peninsula 16-17 Aug 01 (AC et al.). Southern Coastlands: Géksu Delta: 16 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); 4, 21 May 00 (KH); 2, 14 Apr 01 (BB); 6, 19 Apr 01 (EF); 4, 1 May 01 (GP). Alanya: 20, 26 Apr 97 (GP); 4, 9 May 98 (MU). 2, Kizilot, east of Manavgat 8 May 97 (GP). Yumurtalik: 10+, 9 May 00; 3, 10 May 00 (PC et al.). 15, Akyatan Golu 25 May 00 (Ozen & Kurt 2001). 8, Karatas, Adana 15 Apr 01 (EF). Anamur 29 Apr 01 (GP). 2, Aydincik 10 May 01 (GP). Gannet Sula bassana Scarce and irregular visitor offshore along Mediterranean coast in winter and spring. Recently recorded in the Black Sea in winter. The species is apparently severely under-recorded. Almost all records involve immatures. Black Sea Coastlands: Rize 31 Dec 01 (SE). First record from this region. Southern Coastlands: Géksu Delta: 1 Apr 99 (LJD); 3 Apr 99 (LJD); 2, 17 Feb 00 (DMW); 2, 5 Apr 01 (DB, RS); 24 Apr 01 (BB). 2, Anamur 11 Mar 01 (BK, KB). 2, Tarsus 11 Feb 97 (NS). Karatas 29 Apr 98 (MU). Tuzla G6élii, Cukurova: 23 Feb 97 (NS); 12 Apr 98 (AJ). Samandag1, Hatay 9 Mar 01 (AA). Latter is first record from Hatay. Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus First recorded in 1983 and now apparently regular winter visitor, usually in very small numbers, in the western two-thirds of Turkey. Recently recorded in East. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 12 Dec 99 (Bradshaw & Kirwan 2000). Thrace: Meric Delta: 50, 25 Jan 97 (BGU); 25, 27 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Southern Coastlands: G6ksu Delta: 2, 17 Feb 00; 6, 19 Feb 98 (DMW). 10, Burdur G6lti 30 Jan 00 (UG). Central Plateau: 2, Eber Golii 19 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 6, Cavuscu Golii 19 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Balikdami 20 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 2, Kulu Gélti Nov 99 (IR). Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus Vagrant. About the seventh modern record in Turkey (OST 1967, Kasparek 1988, Kirwan & Martins 1994, 2000). Southern Coastlands: 2, Gdksu Delta 29 Dec 97 (Kirwan 1998b). Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis Rare winter visitor to western two-thirds of Turkey. Thrace: 6, Karaburun 5 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). 8, Yedikir Baraji 15 Jan 97 (Kirwan 1997b). Dead, Terkos Golti 1 Jan 97 (GE). 2, Mert Golti, Igneada 20 Jan 01 (IKGT). Western Anatolia: 94, Gediz Delta 30 Dec 01 (EKGT). Southern Coastlands: 5, Burdur G6lti 30 Dec 01 (TA). Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris Local breeder in moderate numbers in lowland wetlands of Southern Coastlands, and in small numbers, but perhaps declining, in some wetlands on Central Plateau and in East. Mainly a summer visitor but has overwintered. Status uncertain in peripheral localities. Southern Coastlands: Gdksu Delta: 12, 27 May 96 (S. Mawby) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 8 Feb 97 (MF); 5, 27 Apr 97 (MH et al.); 4, 8 May 97 (GP); 10, 18 Jul 97 (ET); 10, 7 Apr 98 (AJ); 3, 27 Apr 98; 5, 7 May 98 (MU); 10, 28 May 98 (GA); 8, 13 Jun 99; 14 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); 12 including 10 young, 17 Jun 99 (ABK); 6, 15 Apr 00 (KH); 10, 30 Apr 00 (GP); 6, 2 Jun 00 (M & PM); 7, 13 Sep 00 (MB, SB); 10, 14 Apr 01 (BB); 2, 19 Apr 01 (EF); 5, 21 Apr 01 (BB); 2, 24 Apr 01 (BB); 20, 30 Apr 01 (GP); 45, 18 Sep 01 (BAk). 35, Cukurova Delta 9 Feb 97 (MF). Akyatan Golti 29 Apr 98 (MU). Tuzla Golti 13 Apr 98 (AJ). Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins tf Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Central Plateau: 4, Hotamis 1 Jun 98 (GE). 4, Eregli Marshes 1 Jun 98 (GE). Kulu Golu: 4, 1 Jun 98 (GE); adult with 1 young 12 Jun 98 (GMK, GM, TM). Sultan Marshes: 6, 1 May 97 (CP VAY 22 Sep 97 (AIT); 8 Jun 98 (GA); 7, 1 May 01; 2, 4 May 01 (GP). South-East: Birecik 26 Jun 00 (Birding World 13: 373). East: 2, Ahlat Marshes 10 Jul 01 (IR). Van Golti 12 Jul 01 (JA). Bendimahi 22 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Local and uncommon breeder in all regions of Turkey, with strongholds in the central Black Sea Coastlands, Western Anatolia, Southern Coastlands and Central Plateau, with smaller numbers in East, and very local in Thrace and South-East. Population recently estimated at 500-600 pairs (Kirwan 1997a). Formerly wintered in substantial numbers, but many fewer recorded in 1980s and first half of the 1990s. Only records from the latter season are presented here. Black Sea Coastlands: 4, Yesilirmak Delta 20 Jan 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). Kizilirmak Delta: 1 Dec 01; 5, 30 Dec 01 (SKGT). 17, Sarikum Golt 17 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Thrace: 2, Isneada 20 Jan 01 (IKGT). Gala Goélt: 4, 27 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999); 50, Meric¢ Delta 18 Nov 01 (IKGT). Western Anatolia: 3, Demirképrti Baraji 17 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Karakuyu Marshes 20 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 6, Uluabat Golii 4 Nov 01 (Ulukus). Gilliik Marsh 5 Dec 01 (GKA). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: 20, 17 Feb 98 (DMW); 1 Feb 99 (DHKD 1999); 6, 17 Feb 00 (DMW). Burdur Golu: 3, 12 Nov 00; 22, 26 Nov 00 (Toygar); 10, 18 Nov 01 (AUKGT). Tuzla Goli, Cukurova: 17, 18 Nov 01; 40, 16 Dec 01; 20, 26 Dec 01 (GKA). 3, Karamik Marshes 20 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 4, Salda G6élti 18 Nov 00 (TA). Central Plateau: Kizilirmak River, near Karakecili 15 Feb 99 (EvdB, RH). Mogan Goliu: 26 Jan 00; 4,27 Jan 00; 12 Feb 00; 7 Nov 00; 10, 27 Dec 00; 7, 20-21 Jan 01 (BA). Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor, principally to coasts, in western two-thirds of the country. Rarely inland, but recently recorded in East in late spring. Black Sea Coastlands: 3 females, Ordu 19 Jan 97. 1 male and 3 females, Yesilirmak Delta 21 Jan 97. Female, Samsun 22 Jan (Welch & Welch 1998a). Thrace: Kiuictk Cekmece GO6lti 17 Jan 99 (KB). Central Plateau: 2, Mogan Golti 29 Dec 01 (BDe, EU). South-East: Cinar-Goksu Dam, Diyarbakir: 5, Nov 98; 6, 22 Apr 99 (Karakas & Kilicg 2002). Eider Somateria mollissima Vagrant. Fourth record in Turkey. All records have been since 1975, when the species first bred on the Ukrainian Black Sea coast; the population reached over 1000 pairs in the mid-1990s and was still increasing and expanding in 2000 (Dutch Birding 23: 354). Black Sea Coastlands: First-winter male and 2 females, Kefken 1 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a); description published. Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Very rare winter visitor along Black Sea coast. Occasional in Sea of Marmara and perhaps elsewhere. Black Sea Coastlands: Male and 2 females, Kizilirmak Delta 23 Jan 97. 2 females, Limankoy 6 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). 12, Yesilirmak Delta 29 Dec 95 (SD). Thrace: Rumeli Feneri, north of Istanbul 27 Sep 99 (KB) Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca Very local summer visitor, occasionally in large numbers, to East. Perhaps mostly a non- breeder, but known to breed on 2-3 high-altitude lakes. Otherwise, a winter visitor, usually in small or moderate numbers, to Black Sea coast and Sea of Marmara. Recorded inland on Central Plateau and in Southern Coastlands in winter, and occasionally in summer on Black Sea coast. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta: 29 Jan 95 (SBa); 75, 10 Dec 95 (SD); 97, 14 Jan 96 (SD) have not previously been mentioned in these reports; 2, 28 Jan 01 (SBa). Yesilirmak Delta: 57, 23 Jan 95 (MY); 870, 29 Dec 95 (SD); 485, 12 Jan 96 (SD) have not previously been mentioned in these reports; 21 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 438 between the Georgian border and Sinop, with a max. 371 at Yesilirmak Delta, 16 Jan—7 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). 12 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Southern Coastlands: Tuzla Gélti, Cukurova 12 Jan 96 (G & HW). East: 5, Cildir Golti 29 Jun 95 (MY) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 725, Aktas Golii 14 Jul 95 (Yarar 1995) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 32, Aygir Golii 03 Jul 01 (MP). Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Uncommon winter visitor to wetlands and, more normally, coastal areas in the western two- thirds of the country. Occasional summer records in East but none during the period. Only inland and summer records are presented. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 27 Apr 98 (DB, MR). Smew Mergus albellus Generally, local and scarce winter visitor to wetlands and coastal areas in the western two- thirds of the country. Rarely occurs in considerable numbers. Black Sea Coastlands: Sarikum G6li: 18, 2 Jan 96 (SD) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 12, 17 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). 2, Sarp 16 Jan 97. Arhavi 16 Jan 97. 2, Ordu 19 Jan 97. 2 Yesilirmak Delta 21 Jan 97. Male and three females/immatures, Kizilirmak Delta 24 Jan 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). Thrace: Btiytikcekmece: 30, 11 Feb 96 (MF); 60, 27 Jan 96 (MF); 33, 13 Jan 96 (MF) have not previously been mentioned in these reports; 224, 17 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999); 16, 30 Dec 01 (IKGT); 48, 30 Dec 01 (MU et al.). Western Anatolia: Manyas Golti: 70, 18 Jan 96 (SD) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 12 Mar 00 (Ozen & Kurt 2001). 4, Kocacgay Delta 20 Jan 96 (SD) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 14, Sapanca Golii 22 Jan 96 (SD) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 14, Uluabat Golti 19 Jan 96 (SD) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 9, Terkos Golti 16 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Southern Coastlands: Salda G6lti 28 Jan 96 (SK). Central Plateau: 3, Esmekaya Marshes 1 Jan 96 (GM) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Mogan Goll: 21 Jan 96 (OA) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; female, 15 Feb 99 (EvdB, RH); 20 Feb 00 (OKGT); 2, 11 Feb 01 (ANKA, KB). Sariyer Baraji: 5, 30 Jan 96 (OA) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 123, 17 Jan 99. 25, Beysehir Golti 27 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). South-East: Pair, Cinar-Goksu Dam, Diyarbakir 3 Jan 99 (Karakas & Kilic¢ 2002). Goosander Mergus merganser Rare winter visitor in very small numbers to wetlands in the western two-thirds of Turkey. Has been recorded in spring and early summer in East but no evidence of breeding. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 29 Apr 98 (DB, MR). Yesilirmak Delta 18 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus Vagrant, with 11 previous records (Shirihai et al. 2000), the most recent in 1984 (Martins 1989). The species has apparently recently colonised widespread parts of Iraq (Salim 2002) and this record may reflect the same expansion. South-East: Diyarbakir 6 May 99 (RK). Red Kite Milvus milvus Apparently a rare passage migrant and winter visitor throughout Turkey. Recorded in summer in north and east but no evidence of breeding. Confusion has often occurred with pale (especially immature) Black Kites M. migrans and undoubtedly many published records from Turkey are erroneous. Black Sea Coastlands: 6, Kizilirmak Delta 1 May 98 (DB, MR). 3, Borcka 7 Sep 01 (HW). Samsun 2 Dec 01 (SBa). White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla Until recently a local resident in small numbers in wetland areas in Black Sea Coastlands, Thrace, Western Anatolia, Southern Coastlands and probably Central Plateau and East. Now Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 13 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 seriously endangered and exact status as a breeding species unclear. A few pairs persist in Western Anatolia, and perhaps in adjacent areas of Southern Coastlands and Central Plateau. More widespread across Turkey outside the breeding season, suggesting some immigration. Black Sea Coastlands: 2 imm, Gerze 17 May 99 (PC et al.). Kizilirmak Delta: ad, 23 Jan 97 (G & HW), 19 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999); 26 Nov 00 (SKGT). Hopa 8 Aug 00 (BK). Thrace: Bosphorus 21 Mar 01 (KB). Igneada 11 Mar 00 (BA). Meric Delta: 2, 13 Oct 01; 3, 10 Nov 01; 2, 18 Nov 01 (IKGT). Western Anatolia: K6ycegiz Golti, Dalyan: 18 May 93 (K. Fahy et al.) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 15 Apr 97 (NS); pair, 26 May 01 (CC, JD). Adult, Isikli G6lt 21 Jan 99 (G & HW). Bafa Golii 24 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: 17 Feb 00 (DMW); 24 Dec 01 (EV). Burdur Gélti: 26 Nov 00 (Ozen 2001); 18 Nov 01 (AKUK). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: UG68 24 May 98 (GE); UG67 23 May 98 (AKK). Sariyar Baraji 16 Jan 99 (G & HW). Eymir Gélti 5 Mar 00 (OKGT). Nallihan: 19 Nov 00 (ANKA); 17 Jan 99 (DHKD 1999); 16 Mar 97 (OC). Kizilcahamam 6 May 83 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. East: Erzincan 22 Jul 01 (BDe). Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus Declining breeder; population possibly numbering as few as 150-500 pairs (Vaassen 2001). Resident or partial migrant, most widespread (in both summer and winter) in Southern Coastlands, adjacent areas of Central Plateau, eastern areas of Black Sea Coastlands and East. Very local or possibly extinct as a breeder in western areas of the country; in Western Anatolia and especially Thrace, but also relatively uncommon in much of South-east. Generally recorded in high mountainous, more occasionally well-forested areas. Black Sea Coastlands: Ispir: 15, 27 Jul 97 (ET); 12, 7 Aug 98 (ET, BMZ). 5, 24 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Sivrikaya 5 Aug 98 (ET, BMZ). 2, Pinarkapan, near Askale 16 Jun 01 (GP). Thrace: Bosphorus 28 Sep 00 (MRu). Southern Coastlands: Sertavul Gecidi, Mut Dag: 3, 31 Mar 00 (LJD); 21 May 00 (KH). Aladaglar: 2 Jan 00 (JdB); 16 Aug 00 (A & KG). 2, 5 km east of Aydincik 8 May 97 (GP). 2, Uzuncaburg 23 Feb 98 (DMW). Kandil Sirti 30 Apr 98 (MU). 8, Pozanti, 1 May 00 (GP). Belen: 5, 14 Oct 00 (KAD): 2, 23 Apr 01 (EF). 2, K6prulu Canyon 27 May 00 (KH). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: WJ23 11 Jun 98 (TM, GM) ; possible breeding, WE28 2 Jun 98; 2, WG20 3 Jun 98; 4, XG02 22 Jun 98; 2, XGO3 22 Jun 98 (TT). Kizilcahamam 14 Oct 01 (EKGT). South-East: Birecik: 28 Feb 00 (DMW); 2, 27 Apr 01 (EF). 4, Atalay, east of Hasankeyf 16 May 01. Ilisu 21 May 01. East of Giizelsu 26 May 01. Between Cizre and Giiclukonak 11 Jun 01(G&HWetal.). East: Ahlat Marshes 20 Jul 01 (IR). Ishakpasa, Dogubayazit 10 Jul 01 (IR). Ani Harabeleri 30 Aug 01 (UO). 20 breeding, ISdir 4 Jul 01 (MP). 14, Sarikamis, Kars 10 Jul 97 (AIT). Van, 2 Sep 01 (HW). Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus Fairly widespread and relatively common passage migrant, principally through the eastern two-thirds of Turkey. Has bred twice (Pleasance 1997) with a mixed pair, involving an adult male Pallid Harrier and female Montagu’s Harrier C. pygargus, at the same locality in May-June 1996 (Davidson & Kirwan 1997). Only possible breeding records are noted. Central Anatolia: Konya Basin WHO07 23 Jun 98 (GMK et al.) Levant Sparrowhawk Accipter brevipes Status uncertain. Apparently a local summer visitor in very small numbers in north-west, north- east, Southern Coastlands, South-East, and perhaps also adjacent areas of the Central Plateau. Otherwise uncommon on passage across Turkey, except locally in considerable numbers in Bosphorus area and around Gulf of Iskenderun, and in moderate numbers, in spring, in eastern Black Sea Coastlands. Breeding distribution requires clarification. Thrace: Pair photographed with fledged young, Edirne, 27 Jun 00; 15 Jul 01 (MB; Bozdogan & Ozen 2001). Black Sea Coastlands: 2, Ispir 27 Jul 97 (ET). Western Anatolia: Pair and displaying male, Koycegiz 15 May (G & HW et al.) East: Daglica, near Ytiksekova 9 Jul 82 (M. Bechtolsheim) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. 14 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus Rare winter visitor in very small numbers to Black Sea Coastlands, Thrace, Western Anatolia and Central Plateau. Recently recorded in Southern Coastlands. Black Sea Coastlands: 2, Kizilirmak Delta 24 Jan 97 (G & HW). Thrace: 2, Bosphorus 2 Jan 00 (MO). Western Anatolia: Manyas Golti 30 Mar 96 (R. L. Norton) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Southern Coastlands: Burdur Gol: 9 Jan 99 (KB); 25 Jan 99 (G & HW). Central Plateau: Gerede—Ankara highway 21 Mar 01 (AO). Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca Rather local resident or partial migrant in small numbers in all regions except perhaps South- East (and probably very local in East). Generally in wooded lowland or hilly areas at moderate altitudes during breeding season, more rarely in virtually treeless areas. More widespread across Turkey on passage; in winter largely in west and south, and on Central Plateau. Black Sea Coastlands: Yenicaga Gol: 2, 28 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); 2, 19 Jun 00 (JT). 2, south of Ispir 31 May 98 (GA). Thrace: Tekirdag 6 Jul 00 (SB). Bosphorus 1 Mar 01 (KB). Terkos Golii 29 Apr 01 (IKGT). Western Anatolia: Gediz Delta: 5 Oct 00 (SB); 2, 17 Dec 00 (EKGT). 2, Altintas Ovasi 30 Oct 01 (MP). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: 21 Apr 01 (JdB); 3, 24 Dec 01 (EV). Subasi K6yti, Hatay 12 Mar 00 (AA). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: 3, WJ41 23 Apr 98 (TT); 2, VG23 22 May 98 (GAy); VG63 14 May 98; VG43 15 May 98; VG85 8 Jun 98 (GAy); 2, WH65 18 Jun 98; WH84 19 Jun 98; WJ10 23 Jun 98; 2, VH68 26 Jun 98 (GMK et al.). Mogan Golti 16 Dec 00 (ANKA). Eymir Golti 7 Feb 01 (KB). Beynam Forest 5 Aug 01 (ANKA). Kizilcahamam 2 Sep 01 (OKGT). Ovagay, Ankara 9 Sep 01 (BDe). Karapinar Apr 95 (Kilig 1999) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. South-East: 3, Cinar-Goksu Dam, Diyarbakir 29 Apr 99 (RK, MBi). East: 6, Erzurum Ovasi 5 Jun 00 (BDe). 2, Bayburt Ovasi 5 Jun 00 (BD). 3, Tortum Vadisi 6 Jun 00 (BD). Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis Passage migrant in moderate numbers through the eastern third of the country; rarer further west. Has been recorded in summer on Central Plateau, where has been suspected to breed (and, given recent records, clarification of its current status at this season is required) and in East, and in winter in Thrace, Southern Coastlands and on Central Plateau. Only two latter categories of record are presented. Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta 24 Dec 01 (EV). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: WG18 3 Jun 98 (TT); WH53 8 Jun 98; WH54 10 Jun 98 (TM, GM); 4, WH65 18 Jun 98 (GMK et al.). Hafik Gol 29 Jun 01 (MP). Greater Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga Localised winter visitor in small numbers to wetland areas in western two-thirds of Turkey, slightly more widespread on passage. Occasionally recorded in summer in north and east. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta: 12 Dec 00 (SKGT); 9 Feb 00 (SKGT); 9 Feb 01 (SBa). Thrace: Bosphorus: 21 Mar 01 (KB); 29 Mar 01 (KB); 2, 12 Apr 01 (MO). Southern Coastlands: Gdksu Delta: imm, 28 Mar 99 (RF, KH); 2, 17 Feb 00 (DMW); up to 7, 12-18 Mar 00 (EV); 29 Mar 00 (LJD); 6-8, 15 Dec 00 (MU); 2, 21 Apr 01 (JdB); 24 Apr 01 (JdB); 9, 24 Dec 01 (EV). Akyatan Golti, Cukurova: 10 Dec 00 (CKGT); 1 Jan 00 (CKGT). Central Plateau: Mogan Golii: 27 Jan 01 (ANKA); 28 Jan 01 (ANKA). Ankara 12 Feb 01 (TG). Eymir G6lii 7 Feb 01 (KB). Sultan Marshes 3 Jan 00 (JdB). South-East: Cinar-Gé6ksu Dam, Diyarbakir: 2, 3 Jun 99; 5 Jun 99 (Karakas & Kalig 2002). Bonelli’s Eagle Hieraaetus fasciatus Status uncertain. Apparently a rare and local resident in Western Anatolia, Southern Coastlands, South-East and adjacent areas of Central Plateau. Recently recorded in East. Past confusion between this species and other raptors, especially immature Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus, has generated many possibly erroneous published records. Records excepting those from well-known site at Halfeti (South-East) are presented. Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 15 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Thrace: 2, Cilingoz Forest, Istanbul 15 Jun 99 (BK). Western Anatolia: Gediz Delta: 15 Mar 01; 3, 15 Apr 01 (EKGT). K6ycegiz Golti 15 Mays 97 (MRi). Bafa G6lii 11 May 97 (AIT). Southern Coastlands: 2, Goksu Delta 9 Feb 97; imm, 15 Mar 00 (EV). Central Plateau: Subadult, Hotamis 23 May 00 (M & PM). East: 2, Erzurum Plain 25 Oct 00 (UO). Tatvan 13 Jul 97 (AIT). Sooty Falcon Falco concolor Vagrant, with one certain (1973) and one possible (1976) record, both from Birecik (Beaman 1986, Martens 1974). South East: Birecik, 15 Jun 99 (GE); 6 Jul 01 (MO). Eleonora’s Falcon Falco eleonorae Breeds locally on islands in Sea of Marmara and of south-west coast, perhaps elsewhere. Regularly recorded along west and south coasts and inland from these areas on passage or as a non-breeding visitor. Less regularly observed inland in Black Sea Coastlands, Western Anatolia, Central Plateau, South-East and East. Only records suggestive of breeding are presented here. Western Anatolia: 8 probably breeding, Canakkale, 17 Jul 00 (MO). Red-footed Falcon Falce vespertinus Fairly widespread passage migrant across Turkey in reeulan occasionally huge, numbers, usually at high altitude. Occasionally recorded from many parts of the country in summer, but no evidence of breeding. Only records suggestive of breeding are presented here. Central Plateau: Konya Basin: UG87 1 Jun 98; WG40 4 Jun 98; WG32 5 Jun 98 (TT). Southern Coastlands: Markiz Dagi, Antalya 4 Jun 00 (G & HW). East: Male, Bendimahi 21 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi A locally scarce or not uncommon resident at subalpine elevations in the Pontic mountains, eastern Black Sea Coastlands. Apparently most common on, and perhaps primarily restricted to, the northern slopes of the north ridge (which receives most precipitation). Distribution is centred on slopes with substantial dwarf Rhododendron scrub cover below alpine herb zone (Atkinson et al. 1995). Western limits of range unclear although recently slightly extended (Atkinson et al. 1995).. The Turkish population is impacted, and perhaps threatened, by habitat degradation and cover reduction through grazing. There is insufficient historical information to assess whether the population is stable. Records away from well-known site of Sivrikaya are presented. Black Sea Coastlands: Kavron Yaylasi, Rize 22 Jul 01 (SE, AE). Caspian Snowcock Tetraogallus caspius Not uncommon but localised resident in montane areas (generally above 2400 m in summer) in eastern third of Turkey, west to main Taurus, but precise western limits unclear. Only records away from regularly visited Sivrikaya (Black Sea Coastlands) and Demirkazik/Aladaglar (Southern Coastlands) areas are presented. East: 60, Munzur Dagi 18-23 Oct 00 (EG). East of Van 28 Apr 83 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Status uncertain. Rarely but widely recorded on passage throughout; probably more common than records suggest. May breed very locally in small numbers. Western Anatolia: K6ycegiz Gélti 25 Apr 97 (KP). Southern Coastlands: Tuzla Gélti, Cukurova 29 Apr 97 (MH et al.). Gdksu Delta: 30 Apr 00 (GP); 19 Apr 01 (EF). Central Plateau: Seyfe Golii 8 Apr 00 (KH). Mogan Golii 30 Sep 01 (GG). East: 2, Cenge Golui, 29 Aug 00 (A & KG). 16 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Little Crake Porzana parva Status uncertain. Rarely but widely recorded on passage throughout, almost certainly more common than records suggest. Probably breeds locally in small numbers (proven at least once in Southern Coastlands). Thrace: Biiyiikcekmece Golti 18 Apr 97 (BGU). 3, Terkos Golti 20 Apr 97 (GE). Western Anatolia: Bityiik Menderes Delta 17 May 97 (TH). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: 3 Apr 99; 2 males, 30 Mar 00 (LJD et al.). Tuzla Golti, Cukurova 29 Apr 97 (MH e¢ al.). Egridir Golti 25 Apr 00 (JdB). Akyatan Golii, Cukurova 20 Apr 01 (JdB). Central Plateau: Sultan Marshes: 2, 1 May 97 (GP); 2, 2 May 98 (MU). Mogan Gélii 1 Apr 00 (ANKA). South-East: Either this species or P. pusillus, Bespinar 15 May 01 (G & HW). East: 2 singing males, Cenge Gélii 8-9 Jun 97 (GMK). Baillon’s Crake Porzana pusilla Status uncertain. Rarely but widely recorded on passage throughout and probably more common than records suggest. Recorded in winter from Western Anatolia. May breed very locaily in small numbers. Southern Coastlands: Akyatan Golt, Cukurova 25 Mar 00 (LJD). 2, Gdksu Delta 30 Mar 00 (LJD). Antalya 27 Apr 00 (JdB). East: Cenge Golti, 29 Aug 00 (A & KG). South Van Marshes, 1 May 83 (CP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Corncrake Crex crex Status uncertain. Breeding recently proven in extreme north-east (Green 1997) and suspected on Central Plateau. Rarely but widely recorded on passage throughout; probably more common than records suggest. Black Sea Coastlands: Yukari Fener, Rize: 2, 28 Sep 00 (SE); 8 Mar 01 (SE); 2 food-carrying, Rize 10 Jul 01 (AE). Thrace: Terkos Golii 20 Apr 97 (GE). Polonezkéy 8 May 97 (GM). Southern Coastlands: Burdur Golti 8 Aug 97 (OC). Akyatan Goll, Cukurova 12 Sep 00 (MB). Goksu Delta: 13 Sep 00 (SB); 18 Sep 01 (JDy). Central Plateau: Singing, Esmekaya, 19 May 98 (TQ). South-East: Ceylanpinar: 28 Apr 01; dead, 1 May 01 (G & HW). Demoiselle Crane Anthropoides virgo Rare and very local summer visitor to East. On passage occurs in larger numbers in East, occasionally west as far as Sea of Marmara. Records away from well-known breeding site in the Bulanik area are presented. Southern Coastlands: 2, G6ksu Delta 9 Feb 97 (Waasen 1998). Central Plateau: Kulu Golt: 2, 8 Apr 00 (KH); 3, 14 Oct 01 (ZA). East: 10, Malazgirt Ovasi 24 Jul 00 (DHKD). 4 photographed, Yoncali 11 Jul 97 (Birding World 10: 293, Dutch Birding 19: 202-203). 20, Hagli Golti 10 Aug 01 (JC, RA). Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax Status uncertain. A rare and localised resident or summer visitor on Central Plateau (where two small breeding populations were discovered in 1998) and perhaps adjacent parts of Southern Coastlands. Recorded in late autumn in East and spring in South-East (where it is reported to winter), and recently recorded in Western Anatolia and Southern Coastlands in winter. For review of historical and current status and distribution in Turkey, see Kasparek (1989). Black Sea Coastlands: Female, Kizilirmak Delta 26 Nov 00 (SKGT). Southern Coastlands: Burdur Golti 9 Jan 99 (KB, OA). 2, Gdksu Delta 25 Dec 97 (Davidson & Kirwan 1998). Central Plateau: Konya Basin WH53: 9, 8 Jun 98 (GE et al.); male, 20 Jun 98 (GMK et al.); 2, 18 Jul 98 (GM); male, 16 Jun 99; female, 17 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); male displaying, WH26 23 Jun 98 (GMK et al.). Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 17 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Great Bustard Otis tarda Local resident and partial migrant (movements remain only partially understood) on Central Plateau and adjacent parts of Western Anatolia and Southern Coastlands, apparently in small numbers, and in South-East and East where, at least formerly, locally more common. Recorded more widely in Western Anatolia and on south coast from autumn to spring. Considerable numbers still wintered in South-East in early 1980s but no recent data from this region. Such concentrations appear too large to originate entirely from breeders in this region and may comprise birds from elsewhere in Turkey (breeding areas are largely vacated in winter) and/or outside it; there is evidence for latter possibility. Despite survey by Goriup & Parr (1985) that indicated short-term prospects for the species’ survival might be less dire than previously believed and that Turkey may be one of the more important centres of distribution, recent data (e.g. Eken & Magnin in prep., Heunks et al. 2001) suggest that the species has declined signifi- cantly during the last two or three decades. The first survey of populations in the eastern third of the country for over 20 years was undertaken in 2002 and also revealed many fewer birds than earlier estimates (see News & Information, this issue). Western Anatolia: 4, Manyas Golti 31 Mar 96 (R. L. Norton) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Central Plateau: Konya Basin: VJ86 9 May 98; VJ85 10 May 98; 2, VJ95 10 May 98 (BGii); 3, WH53 8 Jun 98; WH54 10 Jun 98; 9, WH53 16 Jun 99; 11, WH53 17 Jun 99 (GE et al.); 5 males, WH45 21 Jun 98; male, WH26 23 Jun 98; 2 females, VH96 25 Jun 98 (GMK et.al.); 3, WH53 18 Jul 98 (GM). 83, mostly on display grounds, in four areas around Tuz Golti, 8-29 Apr 00 (Heunks et al. 2001). Kulu Goélu: 8, 17 Mar 01 (OKGT); 8, 8 Apr 01 (ANKA); 14 Apr 01 (IR). 2, Uyuz Golti 25 Mar 01 (ANKA). South-East: Reported by local people as breeding in vicinity of Doruk and Kurudere, near Batman (per G & HW). Apparently recently extirpated from region around Cinar-Goksu Dam, Diyarbakir (Karakas & Kilig 2002). : East: Malazgirt Ovasi 24 Jul 00 (GE, GAy, BK). Bulanik 26 May 93 (K. Fahy et al.) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Yuksekova 9 Jul 82 (M. Bechtolsheim) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor : Scarce summer visitor (breeding status unclear) to South-East and parts of Southern Coastlands. Recorded in autumn in East. Southern Coastlands: Tuzla Golii, Cukurova 24 May 97 (Székely 1998). South-East: 6, near Ovacik, north-east of Sanliurfa 14 Jun 01 (G & HW). Black-winged Pratincole Glareola nordmanni Generally uncommon and local on passage, principally in eastern two-thirds of Turkey. Occasionally in considerable numbers, usually in autumn. Until recently, regularly recorded in summer, largely in East, where probably breeds locally although insufficient breeding records are available for the emergence of any pattern. Recent discovery of Collared Pratincole G. pratincola apparently breeding at Bulanik (East) may cast doubt on some previous claims of G. nordmanni from this locality. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta: 28 Apr 98; 2, 3 May 98 (DB, MR). East: 189 photographed, Van Golii 15 Sep 00 (Birding World 13: 406, Dutch Birding 22: 296, 23: 44). South Van Marshes 1 May 83 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Passage migrant, found locally in considerable numbers on Central Plateau, occasionally in smaller numbers elsewhere. Has occurred in summer on Central Plateau but no evidence of breeding, and in early winter on Central Plateau and South-East. Central Plateau: Eregli Marshes: 50, 6 May 97; 103, 7 May 97 (MH et al.). 9, Sultan Marshes 12 Nov 00 (Erkus; Ozbagdathi 2001). Kulu Golii: 3, 25 Sep 97 (BK); 15 Sep 01 (IR); 20 Oct 01 (IR). 18 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Caspian Plover Charadrius asiaticus Vagrant. The first records since 1991 (Kirwan & Martins 1994). Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 17 Oct 99 (AG). Southern Coastlands: Photographed, Tuzla Gélti, Cukurova 8 Jun 99 (RFP; see Sandgrouse 22: 72). Central Plateau: Kulu Gélu 29 July 98 (Kirwan 1999b). White-tailed Plover Chettusia leucura Status uncertain. Has bred Southern Coastlands and Central Plateau, but few confirmed breeding records since 1986 and many suitable sites now drained. Occasionally recorded between spring and autumn, usually in very small numbers, principally from Southern Coastlands, Central Plateau, South-East and East. For review of status and distribution see Kasparek (1992b). Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 2 Apr 00 (GAy). Thrace: 4, Igneada 29 Apr 00 (LS). First record in Thrace. Western Anatolia: Biyytik Menderes Delta, 3 Apr 97 (PW). Southern Coastlands: Up to 6 in courtship and showing territorial behaviour, Gdksu Delta 12 May-11 Jun 97 (Kirwan 1997). Central Plateau: 6, including at least two pairs apparently breeding, Karatepe, west of Tuz Golti 19-20 May 00 (Brugiére 2002). This record coincided with unprecedented numbers in north- west Europe and breeding in Romania (Dutch Birding 22: 166). East: Taslicay, east of Agri 8 Jun 97 (GMK). Ercek Golti, 29 Aug 00 (A & KG). Van Gélti 11 Sep 00 (Birding World 13: 406). Only two previous records from the region (Kasparek 1992). Great Snipe Gallinago media Probably not uncommon passage migrant in wetlands across Turkey, though very few reports from the period. Recorded in winter on Central Plateau and in south. For discussion of status and distribution see Kirwan (1992). Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 16 May 97 (DB, BT). Central Plateau: Karapinar Apr 95 (Kilic 1999) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. South-East: Ceylanpinar 28 Apr 01; 30 Apr 01 (G & HW). 5, Kurudere 10 May 01 (G & HW). Bespinar 15 May 01 (G & HW). East: 3, Bulanik, 26 May 93 (K. Fahy et al.) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus Vagrant. Observers are requested to provide full details for records of all skua species, except Arctic Skua. Black Sea Coastlands: 2, Kizilirmak Delta 14 May 97 (DB, BT). 6, Trabzon harbour, 9 Jun 00 (BD); some details provided. Southern Coastlands: 2, Yumurtalik 27 Mar 99 (LJD). Probable, Gdksu Delta 27 May 96 (S. Mawby) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Scarce but regular passage migrant along Black Sea coast, and through Bosphorus and Sea of Marmara. Probably also regular on Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Recorded inland in several regions. Perhaps also regular in winter in the Black Sea. Black Sea Coastlands: Sarp 16 Jan 97. Trabzon 17 Jan 97.’ Giresun 18 Jan 97. Unye 19 Jan 97. Kazilirmak Delta 23 Jan 97. 2, east of Sinop 25 Jan 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). Thrace: Bosphorus 11 Apr 01 (TT). Southern Coastlands: Karatas, Adana: 29 Apr 98 (MU); 2, 15 Apr 01 (EF). 4, Mellec 26 Apr 98 (MU). Géksu Delta: 22 Apr 83 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 29 Jun 99 (JO). 2, Akyatan Golti, Cukurova 20 Apr 01 (JdB). Central Plateau: Kulu Golti 3 May 99 (PC et al.). Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus Vagrant. The eighth record in Turkey. Southern Coastlands: Second-summer, Yumurtalik 8 May 99 (PC et al.) is supported by a description. Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 19 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Great Black-headed Gull Larus ichthyaetus Uncommon. A recent substantial increase in winter records is perhaps more likely to reflect true status during this season than an increase in observer coverage. Records during other seasons presumably reflect the movements of non-breeding or immature birds. Recorded in wetlands and coastal areas in all regions, but few records from Thrace, Western Anatolia, South-East and East. Black Sea Coastlands: 219, Yedikir Baraji 14 Jan 97 (Kirwan 1997, Welch & Welch 1998a); the highest single-day total in Turkey. Kizilirmak Delta: 10, 22 Jan 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a); 4, 26 Nov 00 (SKGT); 9 Feb 00 (SKGT). Total of 9 between Kemalpasa and Yenikéy, 16 Jan—4 Feb 97 (Welch & Welch 1998a). Thrace: 2, Bityiikgcekmece 30 Dec 01 (IKGT; MU et al.). Bosphorus: 18 Jan 00 (SD); 11 Apr 01 (MO). Western Anatolia: Imm, Manyas Gélti 7 Mar 99 (KH). 2, Uluabat Gélti 10 Feb 01 (AA). Southern Coastlands: Cukurova: 8, 12 Feb 99; 13 Feb 99 (EvdB, RH). 2, Yumurtalik 27 Mar 99 (LJD). Akyatan Gol, Cukurova: 22 Feb 00 (DMW); 3, 12 Dec 00 (MU). 12, Deveciusag1, Cukurova 13 Dec 00 (MU). Central Plateau: 2, Beysehir Gélii 27 Dec 00 (MO, BK). South-East: Cinar-Géksu Dam, Diyarbakir: 2, 21 Feb 99; 21, 7 Mar 99 (Karakas & Kili¢ 2002). East: 10, Karakaya Baraji 23 Dec 01 (MO). Relict Gull Larus relictus Not certainly recorded in Turkey. Two possible recent Western Palearctic records (the other in Bulgaria, in March 1978) based on ring recoveries, but neither specimen was retained. Southern Coastlands: Adana 30 Mar 1990 (Gavrilov & Gavrilov 2000); has not previously been mentioned in these reports. The bird had been ringed at Lake Alakol, Kazakhstan, on 22 Jun 1979. Neither the ring nor the bird was returned to Moscow Ringing Centre, only the ring number. Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Vagrant or scarce winter visitor. Occasionally recorded in late spring. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 29 Jan 95 (SBa) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Southern Coastlands: Géksu Delta: first-year, 5 Dec 84 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 11 Feb 97 (EV); 2 Nov 97 (Davidson & Kirwan 1998); 16 Mar 00 (EV). 4, Tuzla Golu, Cukurova 22 Apr 97 (TS). Central Anatolia: Hirfanli Baraji 14 May 97 (NO). Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Formerly considered vagrant, but post-1996 records suggest it may be an uncommon, but regular, winter visitor in small numbers to Black Sea Coastlands and Thrace. Comparatively few records from other regions. Most records refer to first-winters. Black Sea Coastlands: Total of 20, all first-winters, along entire length of Black Sea coast 16 Jan—7 Feb 97, including 11 between Sarp and Kemalpasa 16 Jan (Welch & Welch 1998a). Izmit Korfezi 11 Jan 97 (BGU). Thrace: Bosphorus 26 Sep 98 (GVD). First-winter, Isneada 3 Feb 01 (KB). Western Anatolia: Foca harbour 10 Feb 97 (GE). Southern Coastlands: First-summer, Manavgat, 10-11 May 99 (Birding World 12: 190). First- winter, Karatas 14 Apr 01 (DB, RS). Spotted Sandgrouse Pterocles senegallus Vagrant. The second record in Turkey; the first was in July 1986 (Martins 1989). South-East: Pair, Birecik 20 Jun 99 (Kirwan 2000). Striated Scops Owl Otus brucei Status uncertain. Apparently rare summer visitor (first recorded in 1982) to several localities in Euphrates Valley in South-East (one of which has recently been flooded) and probably elsewhere in this region. Only records away from well-known localities at Birecik are presented here. South-East: Heard, State Farm guesthouse, Ceylanpinar 25 Apr 01 (G & HW). 20 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Tengmalm’s Owl Aegolius funereus Fifth and sixth records. Details of a seventh record, from the south of the country in February 2001, are awaited. Western Anatolia: Kocacay Delta 13 Mar 00 (MO, BK, SB). Central Plateau: 2, Giizeller, Yugluk Dagi, Taurus Mountains 15 May 98 (Kirwan 1998b). Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula krameri Introduced. Since the first records in the mid-1970s (Kasparek & Bilgin 1996, Boyla et al. 1998) has become established in several cities in western and central Turkey. Status recently reviewed by Boyla et al. (1998) and only information that updates the latter source is presented here. Western Anatolia: Uluabat Golti 6 Jun 98 (Welch & Welch 1998b). New locality. South East: Recently recorded east to Cizre (ET). Black Woodpecker Dryocopus martius Local and uncommon resident in montane coniferous forest in Black Sea Coastlands, Thrace, north Western Anatolia, extreme north and south of Central Plateau and Southern Coastlands. Black Sea Coastiands: Karagol, east of Savsat 9 Sep 93 (D. Ristow) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Thrace: [gneada 3 Feb 01 (KB). Western Anatolia: Uludag 10 Feb 01 (Ulukus). Termal Park, Yalova 26 May 01 (CG). South-west of Yenikoy, near Kocacay Delta, 18 Apr 93 (Ertan 1996) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Central Plateau: 2, Konya Basin UG73 22 May 98 (TT, CO). Kizilcahamam: 16 Feb 99 (EvdB, RH); Dec 99 (IR); 30 Mar 01 (ANKA). 2, Yedigéller, Bolu 07 Jul 01 (BK). Grey-headed Woodpecker Picus canus Apparently widespread but local resident in the north of the country. Rare and local resident in the Taurus mountains. Black Sea Coastlands: Siiliikliigdl, near Diizce 29 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Thrace: Igneada: heard, 6 Feb 97 (G & HW); 20 Jan 01 (IKGT); 3 Feb 01 (KB). Belgrade Forest, Istanbul: 12 Apr 97; 2, 20 Sep 97 (BGii, MF). Southern Coastlands: Akseki 5 Aug 98 (Kirwan 1999b). White-backed Woodpecker Dendrocopus leucotos Status uncertain. Apparently rare and very local resident in Black Sea Coastlands, Thrace, Western Anatolia and Southern Coastlands. Black Sea Coastlands: Female, Siiliikliig6l, near Diizce 29 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Thrace: [gneada: 3, 3 Feb 01 (KB); 2, 20 Jan 01 (IKGT). Southern Coastlands: Akseki: 19 May 93 (K. Fahy et al.); 28 May 96 (S. Mawby) have not previously been mentioned in these reports; 10 Jun 98 (GA); 19 Jun 99 (ABK); 2, Stltkli Gol Dalyan 27 Apr 96 (MP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Giinltiklu, Mugla 1 May 97 (TP). 2, Karacaéren Baraji, Antalya 15 Jun 00 (G & HW). Desert Lark Ammomanes deserti Presumably resident (although no winter records) at one locality (Birecik) in South-East, where discovered in 1983. Presumably more widespread than currently understood. Confusion with Bar-tailed Desert Lark A. cincturus in this region (see Orn. Soc. Turkey Bull. 13: 4) clouds understanding of the status of A. deserti, and it is currently unclear whether A. cincturus also very locally occurs in this region. South-East: Foothills north-west of Nusyabin 2 Jun 01 (G & HW); first confirmed record away from Birecik. Bar-tailed Desert Lark Ammomanes cincturus Vagrant, with one previous claim from the same locality in May 1987, supported by a description (Kirwan & Martins 2000). Southern Coastlands: 2, Gdksu Delta 27 Apr 00 (BG; Birding World 13: 231). Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and BR. P. Martins 21 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Hoopoe Lark Alaemon alaudipes Vagrant. The first record in Turkey. Southern Coastlands: Géksu Delta 2 May 97 (Shelton 1997); description Socce Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi Vagrant, perhaps regular passage migrant in very small numbers in all regions except South-East. Black Sea Coastlands: Kizilirmak Delta 29 Apr 98 (DB, MR). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta 27 Apr 97 (MH et al.). Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola Not uncommon summer visitor to eastern Black Sea Coastlands, East (see Kasparek 1992a) and Central Plateau. Apparently increasing and spreading, and breeding expected in other regions in the near future. Widespread and fairly common on passage, although scarcer in western third of the country. Only records suggestive of breeding are presented below. Black Sea Coastlands: Abant Gdli: singing male, 30 May 97 (PM); 2 territorial males, 19 May 98 (KB). 2, Kizilirmak Delta 27 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Southern Coastlands: Male, Gdksu Delta 22 May 97 (PM). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: WG05 27 May 98 (TT); WH43 9 Jun 98 (TM, GM); WH84 19 Jun 98; 3, WH83 19 Jun 98; male with 3 young, WHO07 21 Jun 98; 2, WH45 21 Jun 98 (GMK et al.); WH16 22 Jun 98 (TT); 5 including several young, WH06 22 Jun 98; VH98 24 Jun 98; 12 including several young, VH97 25 Jun 98; 8, VH96 25 Jun 98 (GMK et al.). Pair probably breeding, Akkaya Baraji, Nigde 26-27 May 97 (PM). 2 pairs, Eregli Marshes 4 May 99 (PC et al.). 6, Esmekaya Marshes 17 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). 2, Kulu Golti 17 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Present, Karapinar Jun 95 (Kalig 1999) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. South-East: Hasankeyf 7 May 00 (MB). East: Ardahan Jul 99 (PB). Dogubayazit area: pair, 22 Jun 00 (Birding World 13: 373); female nest- building and male in attendance, 8 Jun 01 (PCa et al.); 3, 10 Jun 01 (per PCa). South Van Marshes: 2 males, 12 Jun 99 (ABK); juvenile, 31 Jul 00 (KH); 3 nests with eggs or young, 11 Jun 01 (PCa et al.). Female, Ahlat Marshes 21 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). Juv, Ercek G6lt 31 Jul 00 (KH). Pair carrying insects, 10 km north of Dogubayazit 17 Jun 81 (M. Bechtolsheim) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Pied Wheatear Oenanthe pleschanka Status uncertain. Formerly believed to be primarily an uncommon passage migrant, mainly through eastern two-thirds of Turkey. However, several records at coastal localities in Southern Coastlands of definite cypriaca (see Cyprus Pied Wheatear below) demonstrating unsurprising occurrence of this form as an apparently regular overshooting spring migrant on south coast confuse this assessment. Thus many previous records of ‘Pied Wheatear’ particularly in central southern Turkey, are probably attributable to cypriaca. Status of cypriaca and the continental form pleschanka can only be clarified if observers supply detailed field descriptions for future records. Records listed were submitted as pleschanka, but some at least, on the basis of the evidence presented, could equally refer to cypriaca. Southern Coastlands: Gdksu Delta: male, 7 Apr 98 (AJ); 5,3 Apr 99; 2, 29 Mar 00; 31 Mar 00;5;4 Apr 00 (LJD et al.); 8, 21 Apr 01; 22 Apr 01; 2, 24 Apr 01 JdB). Cukurova: 2, 25 Mar 00; 27 Mar 00; 2, 28 Mar 00 (LJD et al.); 17 Apr 01; 2, 20 Apr 01 JjdB). 3, Mut 2 Apr 99 (LJD et al.). Central Plateau: Male, Todurge Gélii 23 Aug 00 (A & KG). Harabele 30 Aug 01 (UO). South-East: 2, Yesilce, Gaziantep 25 Jul 98 (Kirwan 1999b). Male, south of Halfeti 22 Apr 01 (G & HW). Birecik: 2, 24 Jun 01 (IR); 23 Jul 01 (AAt). East: Male, Tatvan 25 Jul 97 (ET). 2 males, Cobandede, 50 km east of Erzurum 28 Jul 00 (KH). First-winter male, Nemrut Dagi 13 Sep 00 (Birding World 13: 407). Horasan 18 Jul 01 (CS). Singing male, Van castle 1 May 83 (GP) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Cyprus Pied Wheatear Oenanthe cypriaca Regular passage migrant (overshooting breeding range in Cyprus) to coastal localities in Southern Coastlands and recently southern Western Anatolia (see Pied Wheatear). Western Anatolia: Kéycegiz Gélti 16 Apr 97 (NB, KP). Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: 6 Apr 98; 2, 7 Apr 98 (AJ); c. 10, 28 Mar 99; male 29-30 Mar 99 (RF, KH); 12, 1 Apr 99; 31 Mar 00; 1 Apr 00 (LJD et al.); 14 Apr 01 (JdB). Male, Karatas 1 Apr 99 (KH). 22 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti Status uncertain; perhaps only a vagrant but has reportedly bred at Birecik (Peter 1994). The first records since 1988 (Kirwan & Martins 1994). South-East: 3, Cinar-Gdksu Dam, Diyarbakir 1 Apr 99 (Karakas & Kili¢g 2002). Cizre 13 Jun 99 (GE, COr). Red-tailed Wheatear Oenanthe xanthoprymna An uncommon, sparsely distributed summer visitor in small numbers to South-East and East. Recorded on passage in Southern Coastlands. For detailed review of status, distribution and early records see Kasparek (1986). South-East: Male of the form chrysopygia, Nemrut Dagi, Kahta 16 May 01 (Birding World 15: 29). No description published. There are apparently no previous records of this form (which breeds from Transcaucasia east to Afghanistan) in Turkey and the relationship between it and nominate xanthoprymna merit additional study. Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Status uncertain. Apparently scarce/rare passage migrant through western two-thirds of Turkey. No recent evidence of breeding (see Kumerloeve 1967). , Southern Coastlands: Singing, Gdksu Delta 27 Apr 97. 2 singing, Cukurova 29 Apr 97 (MH et al.). Central Plateau: Singing, Esmekaya 19 May 98 (TQ). Sultan Marshes 5 Jul 01 (Erkus). South-East: Singing, Birecik 3 May 97 (MH et al.). River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis Rare passage migrant in small numbers across Turkey. Probably more widespread and frequent than records suggest. A recent June record from Black Sea Coastlands suggests that the species may occasionally breed in Turkey. Western Anatolia: Singing, Kocacgay, 22 May 99 (KH, Bradshaw & Kirwan 2000, where date incorrectly given as 2000). Blyth’s Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum Vagrant with one previous record (Kirwan & Martins 1994). Southern Coastlands: Tuzla Gélti, Cukurova 19 May 01 (Balmer & Betton 2002). Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola Very rare summer visitor to at least two sites in East; elsewhere a very scarce passage migrant, although two recent records from the Central Plateau in summer are suggestive of breeding. Central Plateau: Konya Basin: 2, UG68 24 May 98 (GE); 2, UG88 29 Jun 98 (AKK). East: South Van Marshes: 24 May 93 (K. Fahy et al.) has not previously been mentioned in these reports; 2, 2 Jun 98 (GA); 11 Jun 99 (FB et al.); 2, 22 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); 3, 6 Jul 01 (JA); 9 Aug 01 (AC et al.). Cenge Gol: 16, 9 Jun 97 (GMK); 2, 21 Jun 99; 4, 22 Jun 99 (GMK et al.); 3, 29 Aug 00 (A & KG). — Upcher’s Warbler Hippolais languida Fairly common summer visitor to rocky hills and montane areas in South-East, adjacent areas of Southern Coastlands and much of Central Plateau. Slightly more widespread on passage. Thrace: Tape-recorded, Holiday Inn marina, Istanbul 24 May 98 (LS). The first European record. Booted Warbler Hippolais caligata Vagrant, or perhaps regular passage migrant in very small numbers through eastern third of the country. Central Anatolia: Beysehir Golti 25 May 98 (GE). East: Between Muradiye and Caldiran, 9 Aug 01 (AC ef al.). Cyprus Warbler Sylvia melanothorax Vagrant. The fourth and fifth records in Turkey. Southern Coastlands: Goksu Delta: male, 30 Mar 99 (RH); male, 29 Mar 00 (LJD et al.). Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 23 Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Scarce winter visitor to the western two-thirds of Turkey. Given recent proposals to recognise several species within the Palearctic L. excubitor complex (Clement 1995, Grant & Mackworth- Praed 1952, Isenmann & Bouchet 1993, Panow 1983), observers are requested to make detailed field notes in order to establish the form/s occurring in Turkey. There is at least one (now untraceable) specimen apparently attributable to L. [e.] meridionalis (Kirwan 1999a). Thrace: Uzunkopru 12 Feb 01 (UNB). Western Anatolia: Izmir 1 Apr 96 (R. L. Norton) has not previously been mentioned in these reports. Southern Coastlands: Akyatan Goll, Cukurova 25 Mar 00 (LJD). Central Plateau: Ovacay, Ankara 18 Dec 01 (BDe). Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus Vagrant: the first records since 1991 (Kirwan & Martins 1994). Black Sea Coastlands: Male (race phoenicuroides) trapped and Protograpned Kazilirmak Delta, 2 May 98 (DB, MR). Central Plateau: 2, Mogan Gol 15 Apr 01 (BDe). Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis Status uncertain. As a variety of escaped species have been noted from Ankara and environs, the records below are assumed to originate from escapees rather than reflecting westward range expansion. Central Plateau: Bred at ODTU campus, Ankara between 1997 and 2000. Thrace: Sirapinar, Istanbul: 2, 22 Jun 97; 6, 1 Jul 97 (GM). Spotless Starling Sturnus unicolor Status uncertain, perhaps vagrant, although two late-19th and one early-20th century claims are insufficiently documented (Kirwan et al. 1999). South-East: Photographed, Harran, near Sanliurfa 5 May (MB; Bradshaw & Kirwan 2000). The bird showed several features of S. unicolor but the identification must be regarded as unconfirmed. Pale Rock Sparrow Carpospiza brachydactyla Local and usually rather uncommon summer visitor (occasionally in large numbers) to parts of South-East and immediately adjacent parts of Southern Coastlands and East. Recorded twice in south-east Black Sea Coastlands. Found in both open grassland and on partially scrub-covered, rocky slopes, or in vineyards and other crops. Usually a rather late migrant, apparently in variable numbers. Evidence suggests that breeding range may vary, to some extent, with seasonal conditions and / or vagaries of apparently irruptive or semi-nomadic movements, although some core areas are certainly occupied in all years (Kirwan 1998a). Status and distri- bution have come under closer scrutiny in recent years with the advent of intensive survey work within its main range in Turkey, but are still subject to clarification. The species was apparently unusually widespread in the years 2000 and, particularly, 2001. Only records away from well-known localities are presented here. Black Sea Coastlands: 22 singing, 2 km north of Pirnakapan, near Askale 16 Jun 01 (GP). Southern Coastlands: 2, near Sariz, north of Kahramanmaras 15 Jun 01 (G & HW). South-East: 30 singing, Nemrut Dag, near Adiyaman 23 May 01 (Ochiatto 2001). East: 5, 10 km south of Dogubayazit 24 Jun 00 (Birding World 13: 373). 10, between Siverek and Bitlis 24 May 01 (Birding World 14: 246). 3 singing, Cilli Gecidi, between Dogubayazit and Igdir 14 Jun 01 (GP). 5, Erzurum Ovasi 10 Jun 01 (ZA et al.). 5, Nemrut Dagi 8 Jul 01 (JA, JK). PAGE 25: Pilate 1 (top left). Dalmatian Pelicans Pelecanus crispus at nests, Karine Gola, Buyuk Menderes Delta, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 2 (top right). White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala, Ergek Gol, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 3 (middle left). Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca at nest, near Ankara, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 4 (middle right). Armenian Gull Larus armenicus, Van Goll, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 5 (bottom left). Bimaculated Lark Melanocorypha bimaculata, near Ankara, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 6 (bottom right). Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra, Cél Gélu, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) 24 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 one L i pee Sy i ee Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003 Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes githagineus Probably rare summer visitor, recorded from Southern Coastlands, South-East and East. Occurrence perhaps due more to nomadic rather than strictly seasonal movements. Has bred. Recent confirmation that it, at least occasionally, occurs at same sites as Mongolian Trumpeter Finch B. mongolicus is less surprising given finding of Panov & Bulatova (1972) that the former is taxonomically closer to Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus than B. githagineus. Southern Coastlands: 2 males, Gdksu Delta 13 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). South-East: Isikli: male, 18 May 97 (PM); 3 males and 1 female, early May 99 (Birding World 12: 190); pair, 5 May 00 (GP); 2, 25 May 00 (KH). 2, Cinar-Gé6ksu Dam, Diyarbakir 29 Apr 99 (Karakas & Kilig 2002). East: Ishakpasa Saray1, Dogubayazit: 8 Jul 97 (Birding World 10: 293); 2, 31 Jul-2 Aug 98 (ET, BMZ). Mongolian Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes mongolicus Many recent (and two old and poorly-documented) records from extreme East indicate that the species is a local but well-established resident breeder. For a recent review of the species’ status in Turkey see Kirwan & Konrad (1995). Recently recorded in the eastern Pontics. Black Sea Coastlands: Female/juvenile, Sivrikaya 25 Jun 99 (Kirwan et al. 2000). East: Dogubayazit: 20, 7-8 Jun 97 (GMK, PD); 4, 8 Jul 97 (Birding World 10: 293); c. 10, 1 Jun 98 (GA); 5, 31-Jul 98; 7, 2 Aug 98 (ET, BMZ); female, 11 Jun 99\(FB ef al.); male, 5 Jul-99 J@); 5, 30 May 00 (Birding World 13: 231); 5, 11 Jun 00 (Birding World 13: 273); 3 and_a nest containing 3 young, 23 Jun 00 (Birding World 13: 373); 29 Jul 00 (KH); 5, 14 Jun 01 (GP); 2, 9 Aug 01 (AC et al.). Van: 9 Jun 97 (GMKk); 4, 21 Jun 99; 10, 22 Jun 99 (GMK et al.). 9, north of Caldiran 2 Jun 99 (GAy). 6, Somkaya, south-west of Dogubayazit 12 Sep 00 (Birding World 13: 407). Male, between Dogubayazit and Bendimahi 30 Jul 00 (KH). 3 pairs, Gulizar Jun 01 (Birding World 14: 282). 8, Serpmentas Jun 01 (Birding World 14: 282). Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos Vagrant, with one recent (1974) and about six 19th-century specimen records. Central Anatolia: 5 (including 1 male), ODTU campus, Ankara 2 Feb 97 (EU). Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cinarecea Local and relatively uncommon summer visitor to scub-covered slopes in eplandan in Western Anatoha, southern fringe of Central Plateau, Southern Coastlands, South-East and East. Recorded in spring on south coast. Recently discovered to be much more widespread than heretofore realised in South-East. For recent review of status in Turkey and elsewhere see Albayrak et al. (2002). Only records away from South-East are presented. Western Anatolia: Assos 14 Jun 97 (GMK). Cesme Baraji, Izmir 4 Aug 97 (EU). Southern Coastlands: Ceyhan, Adana 8 Jul 97 (BGU, MF). Central Plateau: Konya Basin: 20, VGO1 20 May 98 (GAy); VG04 19 May 98 (GAy). East: 2, Kemah, Erzincan 21 Jul 00 (DHKD). Dogubayazit 6 Jul 01 JA). 2, Nemrut Dagi 8 Jul 01 (JA, Ji). Dotterel by Richard Thewlis 26 Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001 LIST OF OBSERVERS Thanks are due to the following who contributed records for 1997-2001. Years for which records have been submitted are presented for those observers not resident in Turkey. T. & A. Akoglu B. Akyildirim (BAk) Akdeniz University Birdwatching Club (AUKGT) Z. Alagéz T. Albayrak G. Altstedt (1998) Ankara Birdwatching Club (ANKA) M. Argeloo (2001) O. Arnthan B. Arik R. Armada J. Arras A. Atahan (AAt) G. Aydemir (GAy) A. Aykurt S. Baris (SBa) U.N. Basaran A. Baytas (1999) S. Bekir P. Benstead (1999) M. Biricik (MBi) Bird Research Society (KAD) J. Blanchemain (2000) A. Bonan Barfull (1998) M. Bozdogan K. Boyla F. Brammer (1999) N. Brown (1997) J. der Brugge (2000-2001) E. van der Burg (1999) D. Budworth (1997-98) D. Butcher (2001) C. Cameron (2001) A. Carabella (1998) P. Cardy (1997-98) P. Castell (PCa) (2001) K. Clow (1998) A. Comas (2001) J. Copete (2001) P. Combridge (1999) O. Can Cukurova Birdwatching Club (CKGT) J. Dawson (2001) B. Delprat S. Demircan B. Demirci (BDe) P. Doherty (1997) J. Dyckows (JDy) (2001) L. J. Dijksen (1999-2000) P. J. Edwards (2001) Ege Birdwatching Club (EKGT) G. Eken A. Eksioglu S. Eksioglu M. Ellison (1998) Erciyes Birdwatching Club (Erkus) R. Faus Colomer (1998) P. Feliu (2001) P. Forsberg (1998) E. Franjse (2001) R. Franklin M. Freedman (1997) A. & K. Gancz (2000) C. Geyik D. Giralt Jonama (1998) Gokkusagi Club (GKA) U. Gdkduman B. Gordin (2000) O. Gorgun I. Green (1997-98) E. Giindogdu B. Giines (BG) T. Guirpmar A. Giirsoy G. Gliven K. Haataja (1999-2000) A. Hagermann (1999) M. Hemprich (1997) T. Hestnes (1997) C. Hewson (2001) R. Hofland (1999-2000) Istanbul Birdwatching Club (IKGT) International Waterfowl Counts 99 (IWC 99) A. Jordi (1998) S. Karauz R. Karakas O.N. Kesaph J. Kelchtermans (2001) G. M. Kirwan (1997-1999) A. B. Kristensen (1999) A. Kristensen (1999) A. K. Kullberg (1998) B. Kurt G. Magnin (1997-1998) T. Marlow (1998) R. P. Martins (2001) M. & P. McGough (2000) P. Morris (1997) A. Ofner C. Oguztiiziin METU Birdwatching Club (OKGT) J. Olah (1999) O. Onmus N. Orbay C. Orhun (COr) J. Overfield (1997-1998) N. Ozbagdath (NO) M. Ozen U. Ozesmi M. Panayaotopoulou (2001) K. Patrick (1997) H. Perxacs (2001) G. Pettersson (1997, 2000-2001) T. Poyser (1997) A. Prasad (1997) T. Quittenden (1998) M. Reed (1997-1998) I. Richardson M. Rustenburg (MRu) (2000) M. Rigg (MRi) (1997) Samsun Birdwatching Club (SKGT) O. Saygun (2001) R. Schofield (2001) N. Shelton (1997) D. Smallshire (2000) O. Soler Ferrer (1998) L. Svensson (1998, 2000) B. Swann (2001) T. Székely (1997) C. Sekercioglu E. Tamas (1997-98) J. Tavares T. Teu T. Tilman (TTi) (2001) A. I. Tireli Toygar e-mail list group (Toygar) B. Trevis (1997) Y. Tsougrakis E. Ugar M. Ullman (1998, 2000-2001) Uludag Birdwatching Club (Ulukus) E. Vaassen G. & H. Welch (1996-2001) D. M. Wichards (1998, 2000) H. Wierda (2001) P. Willoughby (1997) S. de Win (1998) M. Yarar B. Yesiladali (1999) U. Zeydanli (2001) B. M. Zold (1998) Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and Rk. P. Martins 2003 Sandgrouse 25 (1)
=
©)
Turkey Bird Report 1997-2001
Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 29
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
PAGE 28: Plate 7 (top left). Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris penicillata, Nemrut Dagi, Van Gold, Turkey,
June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 8 (top right). Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta coutellii, Sivrikaya,
Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 9 (middle left). Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris, Bulluk
Golu, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 10 (middle right). Male White-throated Robin
lrania gutturalis, Nemrut Dagi, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 11 (bottom left). Rose-
coloured Starling Sturnus roseus, Mount Ararat, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 12
(bottom right). Snowfinch Montifringilla nivalis leucura, Aladag, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens
Eriksen)
PAGE 29: Plate 13 (top left). Red-fronted Serin Serinus pusillus, Aladag, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne &
Jens Eriksen) Plate 14 (top right). Twite Carduelis flavirostris brevirostris, Sivrikaya, Turkey, June 2002.
(Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 15 (middle left). Male Desert Finch Rhodospiza obsoleta, near Birecik,
Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 16 (middle right). Cretzschmar’s Bunting Emberiza
caesia, Alahan Monastery, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 17 (bottom left). Grey-
necked Bunting Emberiza buchanani, Van, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen) Plate 18 (bottom
right). Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cineracea, Durnalik, Turkey, June 2002. (Hanne & Jens Eriksen)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We gratefully acknowledge Hanne & Jens Eriksen and Hadoram Shirihai who provided photographs. This
report is dedicated to the memory of Simon Albrecht, in recognition of his many contributions to OSME and
Turkish ornithology.
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Guy M. Kirwan, Metehan Ozen, Bahtiyar Kurt and R. P. Martins 31
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 32-40 2003
Plate 1. Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix (upper four birds, all nominate race) and Caucasian Black Grouse
T. mlokosiewiczi (lower three birds). Black Grouse adult male (top left) and in display (right), with female
(lower bird) and in flight (top right). Caucasian Black Grouse adult males (lower two birds, in display on left)
and female (upper right). Plate by Carl D'Silva and reproduced (with kind permission of the publishers,
A. & C. Black/Christopher Helm, London) from Pheasants, partridges and grouse by Steve Madge and
Phil McGowan.
32 Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvili
How much do we know about the Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi?
How much do we know
about the Caucasian Black Grouse
Tetrao mlokositewicz1?
RAMAZ GOKHELASHVILI, KERRY P. REESE AND LEXO GAVASHELISHVILI
The Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi was listed by BirdLife
International as a Species of European Concern, category 2, its status being
deemed Insufficiently Known (Tucker & Heath 1994), and was included on the
1996 IUCN Red List as Lower Risk—Near Threatened (Baillie & Groombridge
1996) but was not considered sufficiently endangered to merit inclusion in the
most recent list of globally threatened birds (BirdLife International 2000). It is
among the most poorly studied of the Tetraonidae (del Hoyo et al. 1994) due to
its limited range (c. 12,000 km’), difficult-to-access high-montane habitat and
relatively small population (Kuz’mina 1992). Better understanding of biology
and ecology is essential for the species’ conservation (Tucker & Heath 1994,
Baillie & Groombridge 1996). The majority of studies of Caucasian Black
Grouse biology were conducted in the 19th or early-20th centuries, and
comparatively little research has been undertaken in recent decades. We
reviewed existing data on Caucasian Black Grouse, from the English, French,
Georgian, German, Russian and Arabic literature, dealing with: taxonomy,
description and measurements, distribution (incorporating recent data from
Georgia), habitat, food, reproductive biology, behaviour, population size and
trends, and conservation. Based on these data, we propose crucial future
studies required for the species’ management and conservation.
TAXONOMY
Considered monotypic, Caucasian Black
Grouse forms a superspecies with the
Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix of Eurasia. It
was Originally described, in 1875, as
Tetrao mlokosiewiczt (Taczanowski 1875)
and subsequently by Radde (1885) as
Tetrao acatoptricus, but the former has
1990, del Hoyo et al. 1994), although there
are some notable exceptions (e.g. King
1997, Madge & McGowan 2002). We
consider it a Tetrao, following Birdlife
International and IUCN (Tucker & Heath
1994, Baillie & Groombridge 1996).
Fossils of Caucasian Black Grouse from
nomenclatural precedence. Thereafter,
Ogilvie-Grant (1893) named it Lyrurus
mlokosiewiczi. Currently, no consensus
exists as to whether Caucasian Black
Grouse (and Black Grouse) should be
placed 1m Tetrao’ or -Lyrurus.In“the
Russian literature it is generally
considered a Lyrurus (Ivanov et al. 1951,
Beme 1958, Dementiev & Gladkov 1967,
Stepanyan 1975, Potapov 1978a,b, 1982b,
1985, Flint et al. 1984, Kuz’mina 1992),
while English-language literature usually
places both in Tetrao (Cramp & Simmons
1980, Johnsgard 1983, Sibley & Ahlquist
the Upper Pleistocene suggest that the
species was isolated from others by at least
the Middle Pleistocene, 500,000—700,000
years ago (Burchak-Abramovich 1974,
Janossy 1976, Potapov 1985).
DESCRIPTION
The majority of plumage descriptions
refer to populations from the Greater (or
northern) Caucasus (Noska & Tschusi
1895, Ogilvie-Grant 1896, Dresser 1903,
Averin & Nasimovich 1938, Ivanov et al.
1951, Kutubidze 1961, Dementiev &
Gladkov 1967, Fjeldsa 1977, Cramp &
Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvili 33
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
“y
Russia
Caspian
Sea
Georgia
Armenia >
Map 1. Distribution map of Caucasian Black Grouse
Tetrao mlokosiewiczi.
Azerbaijan
Simmons 1980, Flint et al. 1984, Potapov
1985). Males in their first plumage are
similar to females: the upperparts are
ochre, with fine dark vermiculations, the
neck is finely speckled, and the
underparts, scapulars, posterior
upperparts and flanks are ochre, tinged
greyish and narrowly vermiculated
darker. The mid-belly is dark brown and
the rectrices russet-brown with pale
vermiculations. Second-year males are
like adults, i.e. black with a pale
yellowish-blue metallic gloss on the
head, neck, breast and mantle, the
remiges dark brown and axillaries white.
The rectrices are black, curving outwards
and downwards at the tip. Bill black, and
the red superciliary wattles are the most
noticeable feature of the head at close
range. Females have the crown and body
feathers narrowly barred dark ochre,
sometimes appearing vermiculated. The
neck is streaked darker and the throat
ochre, barred darker. The breast, fore-
belly and flanks are vermiculated, the
mid-belly dark brown, and the rectrices
dark brown with ochre barring.
Caucasian Black Grouse differs from
Black Grouse in lacking white on the
upper surface of the wing, having black
undertail-coverts, a longer tail with the
tip depressed and curved slightly
outwards, and shorter outertail feathers.
The young are warm buffish-yellow
above with a ferruginous-crown cap,
diffusely demarcated fuscous-black, and
a ferruginous shoulder. Otherwise
generally pale hazel-brown with some
fuscous mottling on the mid-back,
rump, scapulars and thighs, the face is
marked with fuscous-black spots and
bands, as in Black Grouse, and the
underparts are straw-yellow. Newly
hatched young are slightly smaller than
same-age Tetrao tetrix.
DISTRIBUTION
Taczanowski (1875) described the species
on the basis of birds collected at
Lagodekhi, south-east Georgia.
Subsequently, it was discovered in
subalpine and alpine zones throughout
the Greater Caucasus (Mlokosiewicz
1879, Lorents 1884, Dinnik 1886, Lorenz
1887, Rossikov 1888, Bilkevich 1893,
Menzbier 1900, Dinnik 1902, Kudashev
1916, Serebrovskii 1925, Beme 1926,
Markov & Mlokosiewicz 1935, Averin
1938, Averin & Nasimovich, 1938,
Puzanov 1938, Chkhikvishvili 1939, 1941,
Khanmamedov 1954, 1965, Kutubidze
1955, Potapov 1985, Vitovic 1986) and
more sparsely in the Lesser (or southern)
Caucasus (Deriugin 1886, Bilkevich 1893,
Zarudnyi 1896, Vilkonskii 1897, Kobylin
1908, Nesterov 1910, 1911, Bankovskii
1913, Dombrovskii 1913, Satunin 1914,
Bobrinskii .1915, Beme —1925a,
Chkhikvishvili 1930, Buturlin 1935,
Averin 1938, Leister & Sosnin 1942,
Kutubidze 1961, Gharamani 1971, Eftecar
1973, OST 1975, Scott et al. 1975, Beaman
1986, Vitovic 1986, Klaus et al. 1990,
Atkinson et al. 1995). Its total range is
approximately 12,000 km’ and straddles
six, Ccountries:, Kussia, Georgia,
Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey and Iran.
Approximately 50% of the range is in
Georgia (Table 1, Map 1).
In the Greater Caucasus, the distribution
is limited in the west by the Beloi River
basin and in the east by the Samur River
basin. In this region, Caucasian Black
Grouse occurs at 1300-3000 metres, but
does not descend below 1800 metres in
summer. In the Lesser Caucasus, it occurs
from the Chorokhi River, in the west, to
the Karabakh Mountains in the east, and
34 Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishoili
How much do we know about the Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi?
in summer the species occurs solely above
1500 metres. Caucasian Black Grouse
apparently occurs in the Surami/Likhi
Range (Chkhikvishvili 1930, Kutubidze
1961), which links the Greater and Lesser
Caucasus, but existing data are
insufficient to evaluate its current status
and distribution in this region.
Only in the 1970s was Caucasian Black
Grouse discovered in Iran, and it was
very poorly known in Turkey until the
1980s (Gharamani 1971, Eftecar 1973,
OST 1975, Scott et al. 1975, Beaman 1986).
The range in Iran lies very close to the
Karabakh Mountains and may meet the
Armenian population, while that in
north-east Turkey appears more isolated
than that in Iran, although this is almost
certainly a function of the relative lack of
ornithological activity at relevant
altitudes in this region, as evidenced by
the findings of Atkinson et al. (1995).
FOOD
Plants are the principal food, the species
taken varying according to season and
among different-age birds. Principal
winter foods are the buds and catkins of
birches Betula, needles and berries of
juniper Juniperus, fruits of dog rose Rosa
canina, and shoots and buds of willow
Salix. Green leaves and shoots are more
important in spring, but increased use of
animal prey prior to breeding, as occurs
in other grouse, is unknown. From late
May, they consume stalks, flowers,
unripe seeds and pods of alpine
vegetation. In early August they mainly
take ripe seeds of alpine plants, and from
mid-August throughout autumn, berries
of Ribes, Rubus, Vaccinium, and seeds of
alpine plants are taken. For 10-15 days
after hatching, the young almost
exclusively feed on insects, mainly
beetles (Carabidae and Curculionidae),
but also sawflies (Acrididae), flies
(Coleoptera), moths (Heteroptera),
butterflies (Lepidoptera), snails
(Palmonata) and spiders (Arachnida).
Adults rarely consume insects and
spiders. Detailed dietary information is
Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvili OW)
provided by Averin (1938), Kutubidze
(1961), Kuz’mina (1961), Dementiev &
Gladkov (1967), Sikharulidze (1974),
Vitovic (1986) and Klaus et al. (1990).
BREEDING BIOLOGY
Males establish and advertise their
territories during spring and autumn.
Some may display from mid-April, but
the peak period is the first three weeks of
May. Depending on weather, some may
continue to display until late June, but
warmer weather brings a cessation (see
Behaviour). Display areas are situated on
south-facing grassy slopes, in trough-like
depressions, or in the upper part of
ravines. Typically, the same areas are
used annually.
Nesting commences in May or early June
(Kutubidze 1961, Vitovic 1986, Klaus et
al. 1990). The nest is usually a shallow
scrape, c. 21 cm in diameter, lined with
grasses and feathers, and constructed by
the female within thickets of
Rhododendron, juniper or other subalpine
vegetation. The male does not participate
in reproduction after fertilisation.
Reported clutch sizes vary considerably
at 2-10, mean 6.0 (Dementiev & Gladkov
1967) and 5-13, mean 6.1 (Vitovic 1977b,
Vitovic 1986, Klaus et al. 1990). The eggs
are very similar in coloration to those of
Black Grouse, but slightly smaller (49.3 x
36.0 mm, 33.8 g; Kutubidze 1961).
The incubation period has been indirectly
estimated at 20-25 days (Averin 1938,
Kutubidze 1961, Flint 1978, Vitovic 1986,
Klaus et al. 1990). Data on egg loss are
very limited, but is c. 25-30% as a result of
chilling and predation (Vitovic 1977b,
Vitovic 1986), while information on
nesting success and re-nesting is
unavailable. Chick mortality is probably
50% during the first month. Young are
capable of flight at 10-14 days and are full
grown at c. 2 months. Females become
sexually mature in their first year, but
males probably not until at least two years
old (Kutubidze 1961, Kuz’mina 1992).
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
BEHAVIOUR
Detailed descriptions were presented by
Lorenz (1887), Noska & Tschusi (1895),
Beme (1925b), Averin (1938), Kutubidze
(1961), Kuz’mina (1962), Tkachenko
(1966), Dementiev & Gladkov (1967),
Hjorth (1970, 1976), Potapov (1974, 1982a,
1985) Potapov & Pavlova (1977), Vitovic
1986, Klaus et al. (1987, 1990), Kuz’mina
(1992) and Adamian & Klem (1999). Males
gather at display grounds (arena) early in
the second half of April and display until
early June. Up to 30 males congregate at
such arenas (Lorenz 1887), but numbers
are usually 10-15 (Noska & Tschusi 1895)
or 6-10 (Averin 1938). Arenas may be
used continuously for up to ten years
(Potapov 1985) and mean size is 50 x 80
metres (Potapov 1985). Averin (1938)
distinguished two types of display
grounds: one small, with males occupying
closely spaced, permanent sites near to
forest, thus birds more frequently emerge
from the trees onto the display grounds
by walking than flying; and secondly
large arenas, not associated with
woodland, over which males disperse in
small groups and move between groups,
rather than occupying permanent
domains. Kutubidze (1961) stated that
male social organisation may fluctuate
non-randomly between the two types,
with the first being used in mornings and
evenings, and the second only in daytime.
Three categories of territorial occupation
are distinguishable. First-year males, not
in adult plumage, often wander the arena
and may indulge in low-frequency
displays, but do not defend specific sites.
Two-year-old males, in adult plumage,
also lack clearly defined territories but
display more intensely. Older males are
dominant and occupy clear territories,
from which they usually exclude other
males, displaying longest and most
intensely. However, they will tolerate
younger males, especially those lacking
adult plumage, and sometimes permit
them to enter their territories (Potapov &
Pavlova 1977). The function of territory
occupancy in relation to mating success
is unknown, but we suspect that, as in
other grouse, dominant males achieve
most copulations.
Males display intensely in morning and
evening in spring, but only during
mornings in autumn. While display in
the former season usually ceases in May,
some individuals continue until late
June, if spring is late (Kutubidze 1961,
Tkachenko 1966). During the first half of
the mating period, when such activity
peaks, males begin displaying in
darkness and cease around dawn.
Subsequently, display peaks soon after
sunrise, declining steadily until mid-
morning. Evening display is most intense
between 18.00 and 19.00. (Potapov &
Pavlova 1977). Females appear at arenas
both in mornings and evenings, but
mating has been observed only in the
former (Potapov 1985). They walk to an
arena, select a mate and thereafter the
pair copulates in nearby cover. The male
returns to the territory 5-7 minutes later,
but females do not reappear at the arena.
Some questions remain: how close are
arenas to one another? Do females visit
more than one lek? Do adult females
breed earlier than first-years?
Courtship behaviour differs from Black
Grouse in that males either wait quietly
or jump up c. 1 m with characteristic
wing-flapping, and do not vocalise.
Frequency of jumps is evidence of the
bird’s degree of excitement. As new
females appear, jumping frequency
increases, only to decline as they depart.
Jumps by one male are swiftly emulated
by others, but rarely occur simulta-
neously. Jumping frequency is also
affected by weather (particularly wind),
time of day and month (Kutubidze 1961,
Dementiev & Gladkov 1967, Potapov &
Pavlova 1977, Klaus et al. 1987, 1990).
POPULATION SIZE AND TRENDS
Population size is very poorly known,
with only indirect estimates possible. In
preferred habitats within the Georgian
Greater Caucasus, densities reach 10
36 Ramaz Gokhelashvilt, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvil1
How much do we know about the Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi?
Table 1. The range and population size of Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi by country
(indirect estimations, based on mean densities and extent of habitat).
Country Species range
(km?)
Armenia 600
Azerbaijan 700
Georgia 6000
Iran 100
Russia 4000
Turkey 600
Total 12,000
birds/km’. The density of the Greater
Caucasus population appears to be
approximately twice that of the Lesser
Caucasus. Based on up to 20-year-old
information concerning known sites, and
extrapolation over the entire Georgian
range, the population may number
c. 50,000 individuals (Table 1). There
appears to have been a significant decline
in recent decades, and in some places the
species has disappeared (Vitovic 1977a,
Potapov 1985, Tucker & Heath 1994).
Population structure and dynamics have
not been studied. Based on small
samples, Potapov (1985) reported that the
percentage of yearling males varied from
3.6 to 4.4, according to reproductive
success. The sex ratio on hatching is c. 1:1
(Averin 1938, Potapov 1985).
THREATS AND
CONSERVATION STATUS
Caucasian Black Grouse is listed in the
Red Data books of all range states as rare
with declining populations. Hunting has
been declared illegal, and the species is
included in several international listings:
as a Species of European Concern,
category 2, its status considered
Insufficiently Known (Tucker & Heath
1994), the 1996 IUCN Red List of Animals,
its status Lower Risk—Near Threatened
(Baillie & Groombridge 1996), and the list
of the Convention on International Trade
of Endangered Species of Wild Flora and
Fauna (CITES), appendix 2.
Hunting is probably not a significant
threat to Caucasian Black Grouse because
Approximate breeding
population (individuals)
300-500
1500-2000
40,000—50,000
200-300
25,000-—30,000
1000-1500
68,000—84,300
Source
Johnsgard (1983)
del Hoyo et al. (1994)
Our estimation
Scott (1976)
Kuz’mina (1992)
G. Eken in litt. to G. Kirwan (2002)
it is sporadic and irregular. In the Greater
Caucasus, people traditionally hunt wild
ungulates (Western Caucasian Tur Capra
caucasica, Eastern Caucasian Tur C.
cylindricornis, Bezoar C. aegagrus, Chamois
Rupicapra rupicapra and Red Deer Cervus
elaphus), which overlap with the grouse.
Hunters avoid shooting birds in order not
to scare away such more desirable targets.
However, in Georgia and Turkey, the
species is specifically hunted in some
areas. Such mortality probably has an
insignificant effect on grouse populations,
but the problem requires future study.
Grouse hunting is generally unpopular in
the Caucasus due to the remoteness of the
species’ habitat, which is only very
sparsely populated (Scott 1976).
The main threat is overgrazing. For
example, most of its habitat in Georgia is
exposed to such use. Livestock are not
present in grouse habitat until late May,
when the birds are still attending arenas,
and usually leave for lowland pastures
from September. The Rhododendron-
Betula cover upon which the birds
depend has been’ dramatically
diminished within the last 30 years due
to erosion caused by overgrazing.
Shepherds, herdsmen and their dogs
regularly disturb grouse, and dogs may
also destroy eggs (Vitovic 1977a, Potapov
1978b, Vitovic 1986). Recent political
changes in Georgia (i.e. the break-up of
the Soviet Union and subsequent
political, economic and social problems)
have caused a considerable decline in the
size and intensity of the livestock
industry, and in some areas such
Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvili 37
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
practices have completely ceased. This
situation will possibly benefit the grouse.
Caucasian Black Grouse reportedly host
a number of intestinal parasites
(Kutubidze 1961). Carriers may include
the numbers of domestic sheep and cattle
grazing within the species’ range in
summer. These parasites may contribute
to mortality, but no studies of this have
been conducted, or to compare parasite
loads between grazed and ungrazed
habitats. Research is needed to clarify
this issue.
Only c. 5-7% of the species’ total range is
protected (in Georgia just 3-4% and in
Turkey none). However, the
establishment of new national parks in
Georgia is underway and appears very
promising for grouse conservation,
because those planned will be much
larger than existing reserves. To date, only
one national park, Borjomi-Kharagauli, in
the Lesser Caucasus, has been established,
while another is being created in the
eastern Greater Caucasus. No other
special management plans have been
implemented on behalf of the species.
Captive breeding as a conservation tool
may prove useful. Averin (1938) reported
successful experiments using domestic
hens to hatch grouse eggs. Chicks had to
be force-fed for only the first 1-3 days,
after which they commenced self-
feeding. Adults adapt to domestic
conditions very easily (Mlokosiewicz
1925), but no information exists on
reproductive success in this state.
FUTURE STUDIES
Effective conservation of the species is
dependent on the following research.
# Documenting the species’ current
distribution, movements and meta-
population structure
@ Evaluating the population size and
structure
@ Developing a monitoring plan
@ Studying habitat requirements,
preferences and the impacts of change
@ Detailed studies of breeding biology,
fecundity, longevity, mortality and
survival rates in stages and habitats
m Experimental captive breeding.
Most of these can be determined through
field studies at various spatial scales and
many could be achieved through use of
radio-telemetry. Appropriate samples of
birds from populations in different areas
and habitats (within and outside
protected areas, the Greater and Lesser
Caucasus, and core and peripheral
populations) should be radio-tagged and
monitored. Additionally, genetic studies
will be essential for evaluating
population viability and for establishing
quantitative conservation goals.
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40 Ramaz Gokhelashvili, Kerry P. Reese and Lexo Gavashelishvili
The current breeding status of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Azerbaijan
The current breeding status of Ferruginous
Duck Aythya nyroca in Azerbaijan
ELCHIN SULTANOV AND NIGAR AGAYEVA
On 26 days between 24 May and 22 July 1998 and 6 and 29 November 1998, we
surveyed the five largest lakes of Azerbaijan for the globally Near Threatened
Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca, estimating the total population at these
lakes to be 1400-1640 breeding pairs. The main factors limiting the species’
breeding-season distribution in Azerbaijan are disturbance from fishing at
small wetlands and habitat modification and disturbance. In winter, when
hunting is permitted, this is the most significant threat to the species. Many
Ferruginous Duck that have been hunted are sold in the vicinity of Hajigabul
Lake. The breeding population in Azerbaijan is at least partially sedentary,
but numbers and provenance of wintering birds are not fully known.
INTRODUCTION
ZERBAIJAN IS AMONG the most important regions for waterbirds in Eurasia:
more than one million winter in the country, while hundreds of thousands breed
there and several millions pause at wetlands on migration (Sultanov & Mustafayev
1994, Sultanov 1997, Sultanov & Haddow 1997). One of these, Ferruginous Duck Aythya
nyroca, which is currently considered Near Threatened (BirdLife International 2000) has
been quite well studied in Azerbaijan, where it occurs on montane lakes to 1800 metres,
although the majority of the population is in valleys. It feeds on both animal matter
(benthos; Ivanov & Kozlova 1951, Tuayev 1967, 1976) and plant materials (Isakov 1952).
As noted by Tuayev (1967) pair formation usually occurs in early April and by mid-
April eggs have been laid, with incubation occupying 28 days. Large young are present
by mid-July (and can fly at two months) but dependent young, incapable of flight, may
occur until early August (Tuayev 1970). Moult occurs from late July to late August, and
the immatures replace their feathers in winter. From late August, the first migrants
occur at Agzybir Lake (the main site for migrant waterbirds in the country) en route for
elsewhere. Wintering individuals arrive in late November and depart from late
February, with migration peaking in March (Tuayev 1965, 1976, 1996).
The global population is estimated at 49,000 (Green 1992, Scott & Rose 1996, Rose &
Scott 1997). Three flyways/populations are recognised: the West Mediterranean—West
African (estimated to number 10,000 individuals; the east European/Black Sea/east
Mediterranean (10,000-50,000, usually c. 30,000 individuals); and the south-west
Asian-north-east African population, which includes those from south-east Europe
and the Caucasus region (5000 individuals or nearly 1700 breeding pairs; Scott & Rose
1996). The latter suppose Azerbaijan to hold c. 10% of the breeding and 40% of the
wintering populations in this region (Scott & Rose 1996).
Up-to-date estimates at most of the important sites for the species in Azerbaijan are
unavailable (Grimmet & Jones 1989), but in three of these the total number of breeders
is 1500 individuals or c. 750 pairs (see Table 1). M. Patrikeyev (in Scott & Rose 1996)
mentions that 3000-5000 birds winter in Azerbaijan, based on data from the 1960s.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Our objectives in this and future studies were to estimate the numbers of breeding
and non-breeding Ferruginous Duck present at the principal localities in Azerbaijan
for the species; investigate its distribution, migratory status and habitat requirements;
Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva 41
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 41-49 2003
Stove. bs TAS Mingsce ae
: pare: e Ming evr ed oe ee
@e pode huraab a
* samaxi
Ssu
Sump navi
Ka radag “4
Baku’
~~ azimammad
. ¢& ilasuvar’ Caspian
—{eklilabad Sea
“Co ytapa
zoe Wasalli 5
1 @lort lig
inkara n@ 40 Miles
R | - : | < | 40 Bilometers
Figure 1. Map of Azerbaijan showing the relative postion ai the five study sites: 1 = Lake GDL 2 = Lake
Hajigabul, 3 = Lake Sarysu, 4 = Varvara Water Reservoir, and 5 = Lake Makhmudchala.
identify the main threats to the species; identify Important Bird Areas (IBAs); raise
awareness of the species; and define a conservation strategy and national species
action plan for the Ferruginous Duck.
Five large lakes—Hajigabul, Sarysu, Mahmudchala, Varvara Reservoir and Agzybir—
were surveyed over 26 days (20 in the breeding season, between 24 May and 22 July
1998, and six in the non-breeding season, between 6 and 29 November 1998, see Table
3). Counts were made from boats, on foot and from a vehicle: 49 km were surveyed by
boat and 153 km from a car or on foot. During the non-breeding season, counts were
made solely from a car or on foot because most ducks concentrate on open water at
this season (except when moulting), generally permitting complete counts to be made,
but in the breeding season and at Hajigabul fishponds, where reed growth is very tall
and dense, we extrapolated our counts. We considered a 1-km transect by boat
equivalent to 10 ha, because we were usually able to effectively survey 100 metres
either side of the boat. When approached by boat, Ferruginous Duck usually
Table 1. Estimates of the numbers (individuals) of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca at five lakes in
Azerbaijan. * = Scott & Rose (1996); ** = Tuayev (1965); *** = Tuayev (1975); and **** = pers. obs.
Site Breeding Passage Wintering
Aggyol 500* 840*
Agzybir 500* 500*
Mahmudchala 500* unknown
Varvara occurs* unknown
Sarysu - OCCUISa ++ unknown 5000s,
Totals >1500 >1340 5525
42 Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
The current breeding status of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Azerbaijan
immediately flew away low, with both members of the pair together. Only
occasionally did we record lone males; we counted these as pairs, assuming that the
female was on eggs, although there may have been a male-biased sex ratio within the
different populations. We did not record any young on 24 May-5 July, suggesting that
most hatched rather later than usual.
HYDROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SURVEY SITES
Agzybir Lake (Divichi Lagoon) is near the Caspian Sea, 120 km north of Baku, and is
drained by three small rivers: Shabranchay, Divichichay and Tahtachay. Three large
plots were surveyed: Karakashly, Sarvan and Hanlar. Thirteen species of higher
plants occur, including Phragmites communis, as well as Scirpus littoralis, S. lacustris,
Typha angustifolia, Potamogeton crispus, P. sectionals, Najas marina, Utricularia vulgaris,
Hydrocharis morsus and Myriophyllum spicatum. One hundred and seventeen species of
benthic organisms occur, including maggots (29 species), Chironomidae (26 species)
and dragonflies (eight species).
Hajigabul Lake is c. 100 km south-west of Baku and is drained by the Kura River.
Three hundred and two species of algae, with biomass of 0.006-6.84 g/m’, and 11
species of higher plants, mostly the same as at Agzybir Lake, occur. More than 50% of
the benthic biomass consists of Chironomidae and prawns.
Varvara Reservoir was constructed in 1956, 300 km west of Baku on the River Kura.
Fifty-six species of phytoplankton have been identified at the site, and 17 species of
higher plants, the majority the same as at the other lakes, with Phragmites and Typha
dominant. Benthos consists of 100 species, with three groups dominant, bugs, dragonflies
and Chironomidae. Mollusca are a significant feature. There is a strong flow in the high
part of the reservoir, but in the central and low parts this is restricted to a narrow area.
Sarysu Lake includes five large survey plots: Nahalygchala, Halfa (or Agchala),
Babure, Ayri and Sherbet. At Nahalygchala, one of the largest of these, 262 algae spe-
cies with a biomass of 0.11-4.46 g/m? occur, while higher plant species are the same as
those found at the other lakes, and of 114 species of benthos, the majority are
Chironomidae, dragonflies and Olygochetes.
All of the sites are similar in several respects: water depth is usually 2-5 metres (being
deeper only in Varvara), water temperatures are 6.0-30.5'C, and pH 6.7—7.6. Open water
usually comprises 30-60% of the total area of these lakes. Plant biomass usually reaches
a maximum of 7-8 kg/m’, and only Hagigabul has a different prawn composition to the
others. Annual biomass of benthos, however, does differ: Hajigabul and Sarysu have the
highest, 50.8 and 46.1 g/m’, but Varvara and Agzybir only 11.1 and 3.02 g/m’, while
Varvara Reservoir also differs in the flow of water through the site (see above). The
literature concerning Mahmudchala Lake is very sparse but its hydrobiological charac-
teristics are probably reasonably similar to those of Sarysu.
| Table 2. Hydrobiological characteristics of four of the survey sites (after Kasymov 1972, 1981).
Site - Phytomass Biomass of benthos (g/m*):
kg/m? annual spring summer autumn winter
Hajigabul ; 1.8-3.6 50.8 80.2 128.2 40.2 9.7
Sarysu (at Nahalygchala) 8.0 46.17». 49.8 2500 10.2 13:3
Varvara Reservoir 8.6 a 16.3 14.4 10.1 4.2
Agzybir 8.6 3.02 4.81 3.79 2.34 1.81
Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva 43
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
RESULTS
Breeding season
Hajigabul. Compared to the other lakes, Hajigabul has very few reeds (less than 20%
of the total area) so few birds breed on the lake itself, but a series of fishponds adjoins
the lake, of which the north-west part has some very dense reedbeds, and is utilised
by many breeding birds, including Ferruginous Duck. The best habitat occurs at
ponds 1 and 2, and all 11 pairs of Ferruginous Duck at this site were observed there.
Thirty-three species were recorded, of which 15 are of conservation importance and
two are globally threatened (see Appendix). As at all sites, the number of species and
individuals is not reflective of total numbers because most were recorded only in
passing. Counts were made by car and, rarely, on foot due to the small area of the
ponds, which made the birds rather wary.
Mahmudchala. Water levels and the overall extent of water are highly variable at
this lake. The highest density of Ferruginous Duck was noted here, with 24 pairs
being counted by boat. Land-based counts produced White-tailed Plover Chettusia
leucura (which is included in the Azerbaijan Red Data Book), as well as Marbled Teal
Marmaronetta angustirostris and Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina. A large mixed
breeding colony involving eight species and nearly 2500 pairs was located, as well
as three colonies of Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus, also totalling 2500 pairs.
Sarysu. The largest of the areas surveyed, boat transects produced 24 pairs (see Table
3), a density of 0.7 pairs/ha. An evening count from the peninsula revealed a concen-
tration of 83 Ferruginous Duck. A mixed colony of Ciconiiformes and Pelecaniformes
is almost certainly present, but due to the size of the lake we were unable to locate it;
neither were we able to find the colony of Whiskered Tern that is undoubtedly
present. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus, Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea
and Coot Fulica atra were noted with young.
Varvara Reservoir. Varvara differs from other sites in that the River Kura flows
through it, casuing a definite flow and deeper water in its central part. Reed growth
is developing and will soon be significant for breeding birds. Boat surveys revealed
large numbers of Red-crested Pochard but no Ferruginous Duck. However, we
subsequently observed 11 pairs of the latter on the shallow-water area adjoining the
dam to the south. Ten species of conservation concern were recorded. The numbers
of herons and Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmeus suggest the presence of a
large colony. Due to the concentration of Ferruginous Duck in one area, it is difficult
to extrapolate across the entire site. The small size of the reservoir and the species’
absence from the main waterbody Sue the presence of relatively small numbers
(estimated at 80-100 pairs).
Agzybir. Situated north-west of the other sites, Agzybir is famed for the large
numbers of migrants that use the area, but its importance for breeding birds was
unknown. Six pairs of Ferruginous Duck were noted at Sarvan and between there and
Karakashly, but it was not recorded at Hanlar. Density was very low (0.4 pairs/km‘’)
and the total population was estimated at 70-80 breeding pairs. We again recorded
many Red-crested Pochard but no Marbled Teal. A mixed breeding colony of herons,
ibises and Pygmy Cormorant was located, and Whiskered and White-winged Black
Terns probably also nest.
44 Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
The current breeding status of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Azerbaijan
total (estimated number)
Extrapolated
52 (70-80)
220 (800-350)
640 (600-700)
770 (600-700)
2640-3080
1668 (lake)
1235 (ponds)
4000-8000
11,000
9 pairs, 83 birds
Density of
pairs/10 ha
dp)
ox
=
—
—
©
12)
Ko}
o)
S
<=
=)
O
x2)
Cab) "
>
—
c))
i?)
-Q
o)
(km)
five
three
Table 3. Counts of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca at the study localities: b
24, 26, 28, 29 May, 22 July
6 and 21-22 November —
31 May—4 June ©
11-14 June
27-29 November
Hajigabul
breeding season
non-breeding season
Mahmudchala
Sarysu
breeding season ~
non-breeding season
Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
19-21 June
Varvara Reservoir
Non-breeding season
November 1998 visits to Hajigabul and
Sarysu (see Table 3) proved the presence
of Ferruginous Duck at these sites at this
season, and in considerably greater
numbers than in the breeding period. At
Hagigabul, only 12 of a total of 47 birds
were on the lake, the rest being on the
fishponds. Of hunted birds, which we
observed on sale by the roadside near
Hajigabul, approximately 10-15% were
Ferruginous Duck, along with many
Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax (which is
listed in the Azerbaijan Red Data Book).
At Sarysu we recorded an even larger
concentration of Ferruginous Duck from
the small peninsula in the evening,
suggesting that the population is at least
partially sedentary in Azerbaijan. Large
numbers of Coot and ducks were present,
but most breeding species were absent.
DISCUSSION
None of the survey sites has any conser-
vation status, but all are hunting
preserves. Totals of 61 pairs and 327
individuals of Ferruginous Duck were
recorded during the field work. By a
process of extrapolation, between 62
and 770 pairs could be present at each
of the five sites. However, taking into
account the sometimes local distri-
bution of Ferruginous Ducks (e.g. at
Varvara) and regional conditions we
estimate that 50-60 pairs may use
Agzybir Lake and 600-700 pairs at both
Sarysu and Mahmudchala Lakes, with a
total of 1400-1640 pairs (2800-3280
adults) at all five sites. It is probable
that significant numbers also breed at
Aggyol, Lake and at Shorgyol
(Gushgyol) Lake, in Shirvan and
Gyzylagach reserves. Thus, the species’
total population in Azerbaijan is
possibly in the region of 3000 pairs. It is
possible that Ferruginous Duck does
not merit continued inclusion in the
Azerbaijan Red Data Book, and could
even still be sustainably hunted,
provided that its habitat is protected.
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
Table 4. Comparative counts of three duck species: Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris, Red-
crested Pochard Netta rufina and Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca.
Site Ferruginous Duck Red-crested Pochard Marbled Teal
(pairs/10 ha and overall estimate) (individuals) (individuals)
Hajigabul 6
Mahmudchala : 25
Sarysu : 3
Varvara : 108
Agzybir : 210
Hunting preserves in the country were demonstrated to be very important for
breeding birds, including Ferruginous Duck, because waterfowl hunting in Azerbaijan
is permitted only in November-February and, for other species, only from August.
A comparison of the hydrobiological characteristics of the study sites revealed a
similarity between them in most aspects, although the benthos biomass at Sarysu (in
Nahalygchala) and Hajigabul was significantly higher than in the other lakes for
which detailed information is available. The lower densities of Ferruginous Duck at
Varvara and Agzybir may be a result of the low benthos biomass in these lakes, and
at Hajigabul presumably results from high disturbance levels by fisheries.
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SULTANOV, E. H. (1997) The main results of the aerial count of waterbirds in Azerbaijan in 1996. In: Scientific
heritage of N. Y. Dinnic and his role in the development of modern natural history. Stavropol. [In Russian.]
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in Azerbaijan. Izv. Azerbaijan Acad. Sci., Ser. Biol. 3-4: 95-99. [In Russian. ]
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TUAYEV, D. G. (1975) Materials on the fauna and ecology of waterfowl in the Kura—Araz Valley in the modern
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TUAYEV, D. G. (1976) Anseriformes. In: Fauna of Azerbaijan. Vol. 6. Elm, Baku. [In Azeri.]
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Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva, Institute of Zoology of Azerbaijan, National Academy of Sciences and
Azerbaijan Ornithological Society, Mukhtarov Street 13, apartment 16, Baku 370073, Azerbaijan Republic.
46 Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
The current breeding status of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Azerbaijan
Appendix. Total counts of birds at the survey sites. Conservation status is based on Tucker & Heath (1994) as ©
being Species of European Conservation Concern: Dec = Declining; En = Endanagered; Loc = Local; RD =
included in the Azerbaijan Red Data Book (1989); Vul = Vulnerable. Globally threatened species are labelled G
(based on BirdLife International 2000): En = Endangered; Vu = Vulnerable; NT = Near Threatened.
1. Hajigabul Lake.
Species
Podiceps cristatus
Podiceps nigricollis
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Egretta garzetta
Egretta alba
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Phoenicopterus ruber
Tadorna ferruginea
Tadorna tadorna
Anas crecca
Anas platyrhynchos
Anas clypeata
Marmaronetta angustirostris
Netta rufina
Aythya nyroca
Oxyura leucocephala
Neophron percnopterus
Circus aeruginosus
Gallinula chloropus —
Porphyrio porphyrio
Fulica atra
Himantopus himantopus
Recurvirostra avosetta
Glareola pratincola
Vanellus vanellus
Limosa limosa
Larus ridibundus
Larus cachinnans
Sterna hirundo
Sterna albifrons
Chlidonias hybridus
Chlidonias leucopterus |
-Unidentified ducks
Totals
2. Mahmudchala Lake.
Species
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Podiceps cristatus
Phalacrocorax carbo
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Ixobrychus minutus
Nycticorax nycticorax
Ardeola ralloides
Bubulcus ibis
Egretta garzetta
Egretia alba
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Platalea leucorodia
Marmaronetta angustirostris
Netta rufina
Aythya nyroca
Circus aeruginosus
Gallinula chloropus
Porphyrio porphyrio
Fulica atra
Himantopus himantopus -
Chettusia leucura
Vanellus vanellus
Larus ridibundus
Sterna albifrons
Chlidonias hybridus
Aicedo atthis
Totals
Dependent
young
8
14
Numbers
2
6
42
Number in
breeding period
4
Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
65
4
———
COONWDOYGwMoOO
ean
(oe)
=oNo
colony
2500
Number in non- Conservation
breeding period status
5
310
Vul
15
35
Vul
Dec
RD, Loc
Vul
205
100
430
9250
G (Vu), RD, En
Dec
47 G (NT),Vul
280 G (En), En
En
RD, Rare
5 Loc
2 Vul
Dec
Dec
4350
15,034 15
Conservation status
Vul
(Vul)
Dec
Vul
Vul
Dec
RD, En
G (Vu), RD,En
Dec
G (NT), Vul
RD, Rare
RD
Dec
Dec
Dec
15
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
3. Sarysu Lake.
Species
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Podiceps cristatus
Podiceps nigricollis
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Nycticorax nycticorax
Ardeola ralloides
Bubulcus ibis
Egretta garzetta
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Tadorna ferruginea
Marmaronetta angustirostris
Netta rufina
Aythya nyroca
Circus aeruginosus
Porphyrio porphyrio
Fulica atra
Himantopus himantopus
Burhinus oedicnemus
Glareola pratincola
Chettusia leucura
Vanellus vanellus
Tringa totanus
Larus ridibundus
Larus cachinnans
Sterna albifrons
Chlidonias hybridus
Totals
4. Varvara Reservoir.
Species
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Podiceps cristatus
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Nycticorax nycticorax
Ardeola ralloides
Bubulcus ibis
Egretta garzetta
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Anas platyrhynchos
Netta rufina
Aythya nyroca
Circus aeruginosus
Gallinula chloropus
Porphyrio porphyrio
Fulica atra
Larus minutus
Sterna hirundo
Chlidonias hybridus
Totals
5. Agzybir Lake.
Species
Podiceps cristatus
Ardeola ralloides
Bubulcus ibis
Egretta garzetta
Egretta alba
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Anas querguedula
Netta rufina
Aythya nyroca
Circus aeruginosus
Dependent
young
2
2
12
19
Numbers (y=young)
3
2+5y
348
3
8
105
144
3
6
123
3
108+30y
22
1
37
=
73+13y
3
5
100
1006+48y
Numbers
30
6
8
20
55
75
95
85
480
210
12
15
Number in
breeding period
4
26
28
166
8
10
5
95
3
18
130
12
Number in non-
breeding period
6
80
186
15,000
15,281
Conservation status
Vul
‘Dec
Vul
Vul
Dec
Dec
G (NT), Vul
RD, Rare
Dec
Dec
10
Conservation status
Vul
Vul
Dec
Vul
Dec
G (NT), Vul
~ Conservation
status
Vul
Dec
Vul
Vul
Dec
Vul
G (Vu), RD, En
Dec
G (NT), Vul
RD, Rare
Elchin Sultanov and Nigar Agayeva
The spatial and temporal behaviour of a Common Swift Apus apus colony in Tel Aviv
Porphyrio porphyrio RD, Rare
Fulica atra
Himantopus himantopus
Recurvirostra avosetta Loc
Glareola pratincola En
Vanellus vanellus
Tringa totanus
Tringa ochropus
Sterna hirundo
Chlidonias hybridus
Chlidonias leucopterus
Alcedo atthis
Totals
The spatial and temporal behaviour of a
Common Swift Apus apus colony in Tel Aviv
ULRICH TIGGES
Studies at a colony of Common Swifts Apus apus in Tel Aviv, Israel, revealed
the presence of a territorial colony breeding system and regular daily
timetable, corresponding well with the species’ behaviour in central Europe.
With respect to the species’ time budgets in Tel Aviv, it appears that Common
Swifts spend more time feeding than engaged in social flights.
INTRODUCTION
URING FEBRUARY-APRIL 2000 I studied a colony of Common Swift Apus apus in
Tel Aviv, Israel, especially their spatial and temporal behaviour. Urban Common
Swifts in central Europe exhibit a colony territory (Tigges 1995, 1999) and follow a rather
precise daily timetable (Tigges 2000). I sought to observe this particular behaviour, as
the Tel Aviv colony is very different from that in Berlin, Germany, which I had studied
earlier, and my objective was to discover whether the species’ social organisation in the
former breeding area was similar or different. Both groups inhabit urban areas, but
otherwise exhibit wholly different structure and conditions: that in central Europe
consists of a small colony with 15 members and only 1-2 breeding pairs, the Middle
Eastern group consists of nearly 100 breeding pairs (Shirihai 1996). The colony in Berlin
is situated centrally within a built-up area and surrounded by other colonies—the Tel
Aviv colony is established on the edge of the city in a lone building with much open
space around it. Due to its geographical location, the duration of twilight is much
shorter in the Middle East, which may influence behaviour.
STUDY SITE
Nesting places of the colony in Tel Aviv are sited exclusively on a building, c. 30 m
high, standing alone (hereafter referred to as the ‘colony building’). The nearest
houses are 100-175 metres distant and these surround the colony building on three
sides. On the fourth side, in the west, is an open area. The majority of the nests are
placed under overhanging walls, between 20 metres and 30 metres above ground.
Ulrich Tigges 49
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 49-52 2003
[__] Fringe, shared with neighbours
[-—] Colony territory
® Colony building
0 100
Lene
metres
Figure 1. Map showing the colony building and territory on the outskirts of Tel Aviv, adapted from the Tel
Aviv Map and Guide (1997).
TERRITORY
The first breeders arrived in Tel Aviv on 23 February (Tigges 2001). During these early
stages the birds flew above neighbouring houses to the east, and were not observed to
enter the space around the colony building until 27 February, when several arrived
from the west at c. 16:45. They flew above it and the surrounding open space. Further
east they mixed with others of the species. In total, 40 Common Swifts circled the
colony building and at least 16 were observed to enter it. Six did not enter the central
building, instead flying around the nearest adjacent house to the north until 17:47
(dusk was at 17:36).
Over the following days, birds arrived around 17.00 over the colony building, always
from the east, while those swifts over neighbouring houses appeared more than 10
minutes earlier.
50 Ulrich Tigges
The spatial and temporal behaviour of a Common Swift Apus apus colony in Tel Aviv
After the first eggs were laid (20-26 March), those swifts in the study colony flew
almost exclusively around the colony building and the surrounding open space
between the street in the west and the houses to the north, south and east, which
delimited the colony territory. Colony members shared the latter vector with swifts
from colonies to the east, which entered the colony up to approximately 40 metres
west of the street. The limit of their occurrence within the colony territory was
difficult to determine because there was no topographical feature useful in delimiting
the extent of their flights.
TIMETABLE
During late February until the first week of April, the birds returned to the colony in
the afternoon from c. 2 hours before sunset, but principally at 16.50-17.20. From the
last week of March, flights were as follows: the swifts arrived between c. 16.00 and
17:15 and this period lasted 15-20 minutes. During this time swifts passed the
observation point both east-west and vice versa. These birds headed straight over the
colony area and did not circle or join in the group flights of the colony members.
On 28 March, at 17.10, I witnessed some interesting behaviour, in which two birds that
were seeking suitable nesting sites, including by touching the walls of a house within
the border of the colony to the east. For c. 2.5 minutes they were observed circling the
area before they disappeared above the houses of the latter colony’s territory. This
observation agrees with my thesis (Tigges 1999) that birds search for a nest site only
within their colony’s own territory.
RESULTS
As observed, the swifts followed a definite timetable and spent the morning and
evening within a defined territory. They left the territory in the morning and returned
in the afternoon, 15-90 minutes before sunset. The territory of the colony was
delimited by houses and roads, and was divided into a centre (or core area), used
almost exclusively by colony members, and a fringe that was also used by birds from
neighbouring colonies. According to the topography the territory was nearly square,
with extensions into the open areas in the south-west and north-east, where there was
a one-storey house. The colony territory measured c. 90,000 m’.
These findings correspond with my findings in Berlin, where swifts also exhibited a
definite timetable and territorial behaviour. The only difference is in the duration of time
spent in the territory in the evenings. While swifts in Berlin returned to spend 2-4 hours
within the colony territory, those in Tel Aviv did so for only 15-90 minutes in the early
breeding season. This difference is certainly due to the shorter twilight period in Israel.
Given that we assume that swifts feed during the day, while outside the colony territory,
and only take additional food in the territory, it appears that the intake of food during
the day is more important than engaging in social flights within the territory.
DISCUSSION
lt is well known that Common Swift orients the borders of its territories according to
topography and that the fringes of territories are used by neighbours (Tigges 1999).
Fringes are broader above open places. Given that in Tel Aviv almost the entire
territory consists of open areas, some problems were encountered in attempting to
ascertain its borders in the east and west. To determine the territory of the colony, the
birds flights were closely observed for approximately 40 hours. The colony airspace
was also crossed by non-members of the colony, but, as mentioned, the latter were
easily identified, as their flight was direct, not circling. The main part of the colony
Ulrich Tigges 51
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 2003
territory, in the north and south, was easy to delimit, because no other colonies
abutted it in these vectors. To the west, the birds mostly flew only as far as the nearest
streets (or the trees) but occasionally entered the large adjacent territory, sometimes to
some distance. However, as this area was not regularly flown over, it is not
considered part of the colony’s territory. Only in the east was the situation
complicated, due to the presence of two neighbouring colonies and much open space
over which the birds had poor lines of orientation, such as a line of houses or trees, to
determine territory boundaries. Members from the colony to the east exhibited varied
daily behaviour, sometimes hardly crossing the street, at other times flying 30-40
metres beyond it before returning to their colony.
At 90,000 m’ the size of the colony territory is smaller than that in Berlin by 120,000 m’,
although the number of members is several times larger. This demonstrates that
territory borders are not determined by the number of colony members, but according
to the presence of orientation points, such as lines of houses or trees. In Tel Aviv, the
unclear border in the east and—but much less so—in the west underline this
conclusion, because open spaces become areas of common usage. That space around
the colony building is exclusively used by colony members clearly demonstrates the
strong advantages of a true territory. That birds from neighbouring colonies will
overfly the territory is obviously less of a negative result than the benefits of a defined
colony territory, which reduces levels of disturbance during breeding and
intraspecific aggression (Tigges 1999).
The geographical conditions in Tel Aviv reduced the daily period of social flights above
the colony territory sometimes to just 15 minutes. Unlike central Europe, where swifts
fly over the territory for at least 90 minutes, this phase is much shorter in the Middle
East because of the shorter days and shorter twilight period. Swifts in downtown Tel
Aviv were absent from the city until 09.00 (i.e. much later than at the study colony).
During the early breeding season, those birds not on nests were absent 8-9 hours from
the colonies, usually outside the city. On average this is approximately the same time as
in central Europe. Of course, in the latter region, these periods away from the colony
were measured throughout the complete duration of the species’ presence on the
breeding grounds, and includes the greater part of the non-breeders, who only arrive
about halfway through the nesting season but play a major role in the social dynamics
of the population. It is unknown when non-breeders arrive in Tel Aviv.
During the observations, there were never more than c. 40 individuals in the colony
territory, suggesting that the number of breeders was probably many fewer than 100
pairs. Ringing and a census of the colony in April 2002 by Allon Bear et al. confirmed
this impression: the number of breeding pairs has decreased from c. 100 in 1990 to
approximately 35 in 2002.
REFERENCES
SHIRIHAI, H. (1996) The birds of Israel. Academic Press, London.
TicGEs, U. (1995) Kann man Mauersegler gezielt ansiedeln? Falke 42: 250-252.
TiGGES, U. (1999) Spatial behaviour of the Common Swift (Apus apus). APUSlife 0061
(http://www.swift.utigges.il.eu.org)
Ticces, U, (2000) On the breeding phenology of the Common Swift (Apus apus)—the last diurnal return to
nest with reference to environmental and social factors. APUSlife 2340 (1438-2261,
http://www.swift.utigges.il.eu.org)
TiccEs, U. (2001) Departure and arrival of the Common Swift Apus apus in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1999-2000.
Sandgrouse 23: 59.
Ulrich Tigges, Erlanger Strafse 11, 12053 Berlin, Germany.
p2 Ulrich Tigges
Observations on birds in Tajikistan, April-May 1997
Observations on birds in Tajikistan,
April-May 1997
DAVID MURDOCH
ajikistan is a small country in Central Asia that became independent
following the disintegration of the USSR in 1991; since then, it has suffered
recurrent episodes of civil war and access has been restricted. During a visit to
the south-west from 12 April to 4 May 1997, observations were made in the
capital, Dushanbe, the city of Qurghonteppa, 100 km to the south, the town of
Moskva, 100 km to the east, and on journeys between them. Frequent trips were
made from Moskva to the town of Kulob, 50 km to the north. Selected
The borders of Tajikistan are wholly
artificial, except to the south, where the
boundary with Afghanistan is the River
Pyandzh, which becomes the Amudarya
(the Oxus of Alexander the Great). The
eastern half of the country comprises the
Pamirs, one of the highest mountain
ranges in the world; beyond lies China. To
the north and west are two other ‘new’
Central Asian states, Kyrgyzstan and
Uzbekistan. A spur of the Pamirs, the Alai
Dag, runs east to west through the centre
of the country and reaches over 4000
metres; the passes linking the south of the
country to the northern third are closed for
eight months per year. Dushanbe is on the
_ south slopes of the Alai Dag while a major
| ss KAZAKHSTAN-<- {
| UZBEKISTAN
) “Gann
:
g@ DUSHANBE
TURKM./ - . .
Ua ily fee Guighonteppa )-
David Murdoch
observations and comments on the ranges of birds are presented.
Valley
f
roy Murghob, (
Kulob, ( oT }
_~ AEGHANISTAN _
highway runs north from the capital along
the valley of the River Varzob, providing
access to the mountains. On brief visits,
mainly along the highway, I located
White-capped River Chat Chaimarrornis
leucocephala and Brown Dipper Cinclus
pallasi on the river, Golden Eagle Aquila
chrysaetos, Saker Falcon Falco cherrug,
Chukar Alectoris chukar, Pied Wheatear
Oenanthe pleschanka, Blue Rock Thrush
Monticola solitarius, Rock Bunting Emberiza
cia and White-capped Bunting E. stewarti
at lower levels and, near the snowline,
Lammergeier Gypaetus barbatus, Blue
Whistling-thrush Myophonus caeruleus,
Dipper Cinclus cinclus and Chough
Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax. Grey Wagtail
Map 1. Map of Tajikistan showing the localities mentioned in the text.
me
Vaan
KYRGYZSTAN
Ts
we? ~~
PP ed ™ =~) Feteemn i 1
PP Sy. yan BONY at
Sandgrouse 25 (1): 53-58 2003
Motacilla cinerea and Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos appeared to be holding
territories in early May.
HABITATS
Qurghonteppa lies south of Dushanbe in
the fertile valley of the River Vakhsh,
with Moskva and Kulob in a similar,
parallel valley to the east. These were
swamps before their drainage in the 20th
century; huge quantities of insecticides
were applied in the 1960s to eliminate
malaria. The lowlands are now densely
populated, agricultural prairie with neat
villages, many ditches and very little
natural vegetation; they held few birds,
even on passage. Characteristic species
were Crested Lark Galerida cristata, White
Wagtail Motacilla alba, Common Mynah
Acridotheres tristis, Goldfinch Carduelis
carduelis and Magpie Pica pica. Common
Swift Apus apus, Alpine Swift A. melba,
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica, Red-
rumped Swallow H. daurica and House
Martin Delichon urbica were all
widespread; a Wire-tailed Swallow
Hirundo smithii at Moskva on 27 April
was at the edge of its range. Spanish
Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis was present
throughout April, but a large passage
developed from 24 April, with flocks of
hundreds moving north. House Sparrow
P. domesticus was first noted only at the
very end of April but soon became
common; it was not seen around houses
but occurred in a variety of open
habitats, forming dense colonies in holes
in sandy banks—a very different
environment from that utilised in Europe.
Overall, the diversity of village birds was
very limited, though trees had been
planted to provide shade against the
midsummer heat, and some houses,
particularly in Qurghonteppa, had
pleasant gardens. The commonest birds
were Common Mynah, Laughing Dove
Streptopelia senegalensis, Collared Dove S.
decaocto, White Wagtail and Tree
Sparrow Passer montanus; the absence of
smaller, resident insectivores such as tits
Parus spp., Wren Troglodytes troglodytes
or Dunnock Prunella modularis was
striking. Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach
arrived in mid-April and became very
common, with Common Rosefinch
Carpodacus erythrinus and Willow
Phylloscopus trochilus and many Hume’s
Yellow-browed Warblers P. humei
appearing in late April.
The road from Qurghonteppa to Moskva
crosses ranges of hills reaching 2000
metres; the lower slopes were grass-
covered and held few birds except Corn
Bunting Miliaria calandra. Telegraph wires
were favoured by European Bee-eater
Merops apiaster, European Roller Coracias
garrulus and, in late April, Red-headed
Bunting Emberiza bruniceps. Higher, some
lightly wooded valleys and pistachio
groves were less intensively cultivated
with scrub on the crags; access was
difficult, but White-crowned Penduline
Tit Remiz coronatus, Arctic Warbler
Phylloscopus borealis (presumably on
passage) and breeding Finsch’s Wheatear
Oenanthe finschtt were located. Turkestan
Tit Parus bokharensis was also present; this
was the only habitat in which any Parus
was found. The ridges held Raven Corvus
corax and many raptors, including
Egyptian Neophron percnopterus and
Griffon Vultures Gyps fulvus, but most
were too distant to identify.
One exceptional site, the ‘Salt Hill’ near
Moskva, was covered in hawthorn and
pistachio scrub and a dense carpet of wild
flowers; it held Orphean Warbler Sylvia
hortensis, Plain Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus
neglectus, nesting Eastern Rock Nuthatch
Sitta tephronota, Black Redstart
Phoenicurus ochruros, White-crowned
Penduline Tit and Eastern Pied Wheatear
Oenanthe picata. Several species of raptor
including Black Aegypius monachus,
Griffon and Egyptian Vultures were seen
soaring overhead.
There were few wetlands. Access to rivers
was limited; Sand Martin Riparia riparia
was common, several Common Tern
Sterna hirundo and a single Whiskered
54
David Murdoch
Observations on birds in Tajikistan, April-May 1997
Tern Chlidonias hybrida were observed.
The ditches held few birds: Common :
Kingfisher Alcedo atthis was fairly ot
common but Moorhen Gallinula chloropus S
scarce. Passage waders such as Common
1
4
2
7h
17
2
10
3
300
Sandpiper, Green Tringa ochropus and ras - S 8 7 nee
Wood Sandpipers T. glareola fed in them. = ‘
South of Kulob, two small fishponds (<1 é
ha each) fringed by bulrushes Typha sp. a<