Op X OL a aaa ; SUSE gay oe RE OL'793 20 7 > Or x8 a (HCD Ul ape) 06'0€3 z0 9€ AOZ OS X OL 5 : . G6 673 z0 Of doz 0G x £ Q osizF zogr. oexs JSIAOJION 09'9z3 20 G'ZZ 4OZ Ob x8 S G66c F = 20. GE 0S XZ (ueissny ) GZ" z08L 4OZ O£ x8 | S OSEG:3. = FORE oe re Solj3H ald 1yb1EM |aPo) : & os. 3 209 © werdousr 0$ x 01 siejnooulg YuRsy Sopie BE OOS. F Z209E wadouar 0g x OL a a o S6 7b F ZO gL waidouar og x 8 buat SSI97 [ Ig y if | LT He) 3 0S'Sb F 20 47 juow|ag Op x 8 : = S os'e8 F 20 BE yodman OS X OL : 0S°6013 Z0 Be uognpny pr x S°8 JIMS OOLPTF 20 HZ eueld Or x OL Wysigey es Ey fe gz9gez 2098 Wle1G V9/a9S x 8 i a anne i Sees 06'vEEs zog~ = WABI. W9D/ Or * OL : : gaevie e u ZG18ZF = 20 0Z Wlelg GOE xX 8 (358M) QL lvlF 20g wWjelg gOzZ x 8 SS197 aq = }4uBIaM J2PoM Sd11d JUNODSIp }e soyeu Ayjenb do} 10430 ISSN 0036-9144 — SCOTTISH Nr Sf 1 re vi THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 2 SUMMER 1982 1982/83 SPECIAL iNTEREST TOURS by PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS Directors: Raymond Hodgkins, ma (Oxon) MBOU Patricia Hodgkins, mMTAI and Neville Wykes, FAal By Scheduled Air and Inclusive. With Guest Lecturers and a Tour Manager. *Provisional SPRING IN CEPHALONIA Flowers: “Mont” Hirons May 4-18 £316 NORTHERN GREECE Flowers : Betty Allen Jun 5-20 £560 Butterflies : Jeremy Holloway NEW LONG HAUL TOURS (1982) KULU Birds : Raj Singh; Flowers: Allen Paterson May 19-Jun 4 £1280 SEYCHELLES Birds Flowers Jul 17-2 Aug £1475 (Dr David Bellamy : “Mont” Hirons) INDIA - RAJASTHAN AND THAR DESERT Oct 20-Nov 7 £1395 Dr Peter Lack : Raj Singh NORTH AEGEAN ISLANDS Sites : David Miles Sep 24-8 Oct £600 PHILIP OF MACEDON Sites, Treasure Oct 16-23 £368 COTO DONANA (SPAIN) Birds: Nick Goater Oct 3-10 £360* AUTUMN IN ROME Sites: David Miles Nov. £270* AUTUMN IN CRETE Sites: William Taylor Nov 4-11 £275* 1983 RWANDA & TANZANIA Gorillas, Birds, Wildlife Feb £1300* Dr Chris Perrins MALAYSIA ADVENTURE Birds, Flowers, Butterflies Feb £1200* SPRING IN ROME Sites: William Taylor £240* SPRING IN CRETE £275* BIRDS & FLOWERS OF CRETE Birds, Flowers £500* TUNISIAN ARCHAEOLOGY Sites : David Miles £550* SiTES & FLOWERS OF PELOPONNESE & WESTERN CRETE May £550* GREEK ISLAND CRUISE May £700* COTO DONANA (SPAIN) Rick Goater : WFT : Birds May 2-9 £400* LAKES PRESPA & OCHRID (MACEDONIA) Birds Sep/Oct £550* GIBRALTAR Birds Sep 8-15; 15-22 £265* AUTUMN IN CRETE Nov £285* “Straight” Travel: We are a fully licenced travel agency dealing mainly with University Senior Members. Our experience of Sabbaticals, Lecture Tours and Conferences is entirely at your disposal for accurate planning of long itineraries or economical Conference arrangements. Registration : Costs nothing, does not commit you in any way but gives you first sight of the brochure on publication. PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN AND GOWN TRAVEL, 40/41 SOUTH PARADE, SUMMERTOWN, OXFORD, OX2 7uUP. Phone Oxford (0865) 511341-2-3 AGENTS Fully Bonded Atol No. 275 Binocular Repairs RE you a cross-eyed birdwatch- er? Even with careful use, binoculars can become mis-aligned over a period. We offer a special service of cleaning and re-align- ment at the prices listed below for any make or size of hand-held binocular. RSPB and SOC members (please state you are a member) £12.85 including p and p and VAT. Non-members £16.52. A full repair service is also available. Send to: Service Dept. Charles Frank Ltd, PO Box 5, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2NL. CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. DORNOCH CASTLE HOTEL AA. RAC. Retaining the romance of a Castle and the homely charm of a country house combined with the amenities of a modern hotel, our guests receive a warm welcome and a first- class service. R.S.A.C, ‘Ashley Courtenay’ and ‘Signpost’ Recommended Conveniently situated for the Dornoch Firth, Tain Bay, Edderton Sands, Skibo Estuary and Loch Fleet as well as many interesting moorland, mountain and forestry areas, Dornoch has much to offer the observer of wild life, even while enjoying excellent local golf. A wing of bedrooms with private bathrooms and extended public rooms greatly enhances the comfort of this hotel which is open from April to October. Illustrated brochure of Hotel and tariff gladly sent on request. A special golf package is available except during July and August. DORNOCH CASTLE HOTEL, DORNOCH, SUTHERLAND Telephone : Dornoch 216 GULLS A guide to identification by P. J. GRANT Peter Grant’s book is an enlarged and much revised version of his series on gull identification which first appeared in issues of British Birds. As well as extensive textual improvements, most of the drawings have been revised and over 170 new photographs have been added. The book covers the 23 species of western Palearctic gulls (more than half the world total) and concentrates particularly on the immature plumages which have, hitherto, been inadequately covered in the standard field guides. 280 pages including 128 pages of photographs £12.00 net ISBN 0 85661 030 5 T &ADPOYSER LTD Calton, Waterhouses, Staffs ST10 3JX SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 2, SUMMER 1982 Page Fledging success of some Red- ees Divers in Orkney (C. J. Booth) _... ; . - ~ 33 Le | coastal waders of Lewis and Harris E. Buxton) ja os a ies jee a6 38 Isle of May Bird Observatory and Field Station se aa for 1981 (B. Zonfrillo) sas 43 Harvie-Brown - a profile (J. A. Love) ies snk ba 49 Short Notes Predation of birds by Pine Martens (R. L. Swann) ... 53 Work on Golden Eagle and Peregrine in northeast Scotland in 1981 (Adam Watson) pale ees 54 Movement of a Greenshank chick (Maimie L. P. Thompson) ses bad ae 56 Reviews The Birds of Fair Isle...an illustrated checklist oe J. F. Holloway (Roger Broad) ... : 57 Sketches of Bird Life by C. F. Tunnicliffe (Donald Watson) 57 Flight Identification of European Raptors, 3rd edition, R. F. Porter (Angus Hogg) . sis 58 The Birdwatcher’s Picvotigny me Peter ‘Weaver (Sandy Mitchell) 22 _ 58 Current literature ais a aes oe iss 58 Notices oats sei ae ‘a6 59 The Scottish Oni helene Club... aut ae ra 60 Branch News a a ae cat oe hk 61 Fieldwork Reports a3 as it fer she 61 Current Notes ses a we sue aes oe 63 Editor D. J. Bates Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe Heron 8x40 Bwcf Binoculars The Birdwatchers Glasses. As used by the forestry commission. Ideal for the young and beginners. Lightweight (26 ozs.), extra wide angle, 514 ft. field of ,view, also suitable for spectacle wearers. We _ believe them incomparable value at £37.26 inc. case and lanyard plus £1.95 towards p&p. Top quality optical goods at enormous Savings Heron quality. Heron service. Heron choice - we hold in stock what we believe to be the largest range of telescopes and binoculars for birdwatchers in the country. A few examples are shown below: Retail Our BINOCULARS Price Price Swift Audubon 8.5 x 44 MKII (380z) - £109.66 Swift Grand Prix 8x 40 MK.I(240z) £64.58 Carl Zeiss 10x40 B Dialyt (240z)- £325.35 Zeiss Jena Notarem 10 x 40B (2402) £148.95 Zeiss Jena 8x30 Jenoptem (1702) £38.94 Zeiss Jena 10x50 Jenoptem (350z) Habicht Diana 10 x 40 (230z) Leitz 10x40 B (2102) Kent 8 x 30 BUDGET (2402) (Ideal for children) TELESCOPES B Nickel Supra 15 x 60x60 (2802) Hertel & Reuss Televari 25 x 60x60 (3202) £186.88 £145.47 Order direct from this list - Prices correct as of 1st April 1932, inclusive of case, lanyard and manufacturer's guarantee, plus £1.95 post and packing charges. Access and Barclaycard accepted. Appiy for details and send for your guide to Binocular & Telescope ownership. Further details and comprehensive price list available in return for this coupon, including Field & Trek Catalogue of camping, rambling and climbing equipment. Or call in person and see our vast stock for yourself. £68.24 £329.89 £230.92 £365.70 £16.45 £191.71 £141.27 “(Typical AP.R. 34.5%) Backpacking Equipment(] Skiing Equipment [1] | (4 member of the Field & Trek Group) Please ‘send me details and price lists on: Binoculars(] Telescopes[_]Field & Trek The new ‘Field and Trek Group’ Budget Account Card* [) Name Address x Send 25p towards postage ar and d catalogue - = Neron Heron £38.80 NEW 10x40 Wide-angle Binoculars Quality, power and light weight too — a mere 20 ozs! 367 ft. field of view at 1,000 yards. Slim Zeiss-type body, centre focus, black finish, fully-coated lenses, also suitable for spectacle wearers. Excellent value at £38.80 inc. ‘case, straps and landyard, plus £1.95 p&p Heron NEW 8x40 Zcf binoculars £29.21 Weight 21 ozs., 341 ft. field of view at 1,000 yards. Fold-down rubber eyecups. Only £29.21, plus £1.95 p&p. Oxzoom telescope This ss. with6Omm quite : magnificent object lens telescope from West Germany is ideal for use or. reservoirs and seashore. Robust in construction, rubber covered, excellent in optical quality. We believe F1 26. 50 this to be the best on the market today. Weight 950g., length 300m closed, 560mm open. Fitted with tripod- brush. Exit pupil 41mm, light-gathering g power 16.1, twilight 30.60, field of view 1,000m 47. 12m. Heron price of £126.50 including leather case and rubber eyecup for spectacle wearers is outstanding value. Add £1.95 p&p. | Heron Optical Co. 23-25 Kings Road, | Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4ER.Telex:995566 | @ (0277) 221259, 219418, 210913 Only 5 minutes from Brentwood Station. 30 minutes fren London's Live J 9amto5pm Eo¢ Saturday 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. | St. Station (Southend Line). Open daily londay to Friday, | | | | SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 2 Summer 1982 Edited by D. J. Bates Fledging success of some Red-throated Divers in Orkney C. J. BOOTH This study indicates how the breeding success of Red- throated Divers can be affected by human disturbance. The presence of Red-throated Divers on several islands in Orkney during Viking times is suggested by the number of lochs called ‘Loomachun’. This word is the old Norse for ‘Tarn of the Diver’. Since then there must have been a decrease, as Buckley & Harvie-Brown (1891) stated that they had no authentic information that Red-throated Divers bred on any of the Orkney Islands except Hoy. Here they knew of only four pairs, but also added that birds had been seen on suitable lochs on other islands. The species has increased during the last 80 years to number at least 67 pairs (Lea 1978) and has recently been recorded as breeding on seven different islands. The obvious threats to Red-throated Divers are oil pollution and, as they are at the end of a food chain, toxic chemicals. Perhaps less well known are the threats at their nesting lochs, threats that are often associated directly or indirectly with human activity. During the period 1973-80 I monitored the fledging success of divers on eight lochans and one loch in Orkney; the results are included in this paper together with some probable reasons for failure. Study area The eight lochans are all on hill ground at heights of be- tween 180 and 200m; they are situated in blanket bog and vary in size from 110 m? to 420 m?. The depth ranges from half to 14m, with a mainly peaty bottom and very little plant growth. The loch has an area of 3.5 ha and is at a height of 160m. There are steep banks bounding one side, a small beach and low banks around the rest of the loch with clumps of Juncus 34 RED-THROATED DIVERS IN ORKNEY 12(2) which are often used as nesting sites. There is a stony bottom on part of the loch and again very little plant growth, with a maximum depth of 2m. Methods It was considered very important to avoid disturbance, as a diver will often leave its nest and even the nesting loch, Table 1. Number of young Red-throated Divers fledged on eight lochans in Orkney, 1973-80 Lochan 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 A 1 1 2 1 0 2 1 2 B 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 Cc 1 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 D 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 1 E 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 2 F 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 G 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 2 H 0 1 0 2 0 1 1 1 Total young 7 “4 9 6 2 5 6 9 fledged Total No. of breeding attempts 1973-80 64 Total No. of young fledged 1973-80 51 No. of young fledged per nesting pair per year 0.79 Total No. of successful breeding attempts 42 (65.6% success) 24 22 20 No. of 18 young is fledged 14 42 ne) g 6 & 7th 2ist 4th 18th 1st 15th 24th JUL. AUG. SEPT. Fig. Fledging dates of 51 young Red-throated Divers on eight lochans, 1973-80. in fortnightly periods. 1982 RED-THROATED DIVERS IN ORKNEY 35 allowing easy predation of eggs and small young; no attempt was made to find nests with eggs. At the lochans observations were made from a distant position in May to establish that pairs were present; a further visit was made in early July to assess the presence or absence of young. If there was no sign of either young or an adult, then a careful search of the bank was made for nesting scrapes. At successful sites another visit was made when it ‘was thought that the young would be well grown, and at failed sites a check was made a month later for the possibility of a second attempt at nesting. If no young were seen on a lochan, where young had been noted previously, even if it was thought that they may have fledged, a search was made around the edge for possible signs of dead young. The loch was also visited in May to establish the number of pairs with territories, and in July and August to count young. No attempt was made to look for failed nests here, as there was always at least one pair present until the end of August, and by this time the growth of vegetation made recog- nition of some nesting scrapes difficult. Observations were again made from a distant position overlooking the loch. Results Nesting attempts were made on all lochans during each year of the study period, the number of young reared on each lochan being shown in table 1. Only one pair of divers nested on any one lochan in any year and the average number of young reared per nesting pair was 0.79 per year. In terms of the proportion of pairs producing fledged young, there was a 65.6% success. The fledging date of young on the lochans is shown in the figure. This is given in fortnightly periods, as visits were limited to avoid disturbance. At lochan A in 1972 and at an- other in 1979 (not included in this study) single young fledged during the period 15-29th September. The latest date I have seen a young diver on any loch or lochan was 23rd September 1972. In Orkney fledging occurs from mid July to late Septem- ber, with a peak during mid August. The number of young reared on the loch is shown in table 2. In each year five pairs were seen to be holding territory and it was assumed that this was the number of pairs nesting. An average of 0.55 young were reared per nesting pair, with a 47.5% success. Human activity affecting nesting success (1) Egg collectors, birdwatchers and photographers In 1977 egg collectors were particularly active in Orkney and it + 36 RED-THROATED DIVERS IN ORKNEY 12(2) Table 2. Number of young Red-throated Divers fledged on a loch in Orkney, 1973-80 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1878 1879 1980 Total No. of young 6 5 2 1 1 4 0 3 22 fledged No. of successful 4 4 2 1 1 4 0 3 19 breeding attempts Total No. of breeding attempts 1973-80 40 Total No. of young fledged 1973-80 22 No. of young fledged per nesting pair per year 0.55 Total No. of successful breeding attempts 19 (47.5%) significant that in this year divers had the poorest nesting success of any of the eight years. In some years visiting bird- watchers have made counts of nests around the loch and one group even camped nearby. The lochans are less often visited by birdwatchers but up to 1976 have been occasionally used by bird photographers. (2) Peat cutting Peat cutting takes place close to the loch and workers are often in sight of sitting divers; there is also peat cutting near lochan F. The nesting divers probably tolerate people while they are actually working, but the main distur- pance will be during arrival and departure when they pass close to the edge of the loch, especially if accompanied by dogs. This disturbance may have had most effect in 1979, which was the coldest and wettest summer on record in Ork- ney; no young were reared on the loch or on lochan F. (3) Shooting On 12th August 1978 I found an adult diver and two young freshly shot on lochan E. Similarly on 23rd August 1980 at another lochan I found a well grown young that had been shot, and on the same day at lochan B, which is not far away, the head of a young diver floating in the water. (4) Agricultural reclamation An excavator was used in making a drainage ditch near lochan D in 1979 just after the young had hatched, and this disturbance was almost certainly the cause of failure to fledge. Another potential hazard is the use of barbed wire fencing as hill ground is reclaimed; I found a dead adult diver caught on barbed wire fencing at the head of a lochan on 24th July 1973. (5) Fishing Although disturbance from fishing is not signifi- cant on the loch and lochans in my study area, many of the larger lochs in Orkney (especially on Mainland) are well fished and it is unlikely that divers will nest very successfully on them. 1982 RED-THROATED DIVERS IN ORKNEY 37 Discussion It is interesting to note that in a Shetland study (Bundy 1978) none of the young divers hatching after 4th July fledged successfully. Allowing 6-7 weeks as the fledging period (Cramp et al. 1977) these young would leave the lochs during the last fortnight of August or early September. In my study in Orkney 30.6% of the young fledged in the last fortnight of August and the first two weeks in September. Human activity in several forms can have an adverse effect on the breeding success of Red-throated Divers. This ranges from the shooting of adults and young or egg collecting, to disturbance, either directly from birdwatchers looking for nests or indirectly from peat cutters and farm workers, allow- ing easier predation of eggs and young by skuas and gulls. The amount of disturbance is much greater on the loch than on the lochans, some of which are remote and difficult to locate. This is shown in the difference in overall nesting success with only 0.55 young reared per nesting pair on the loch compared to 0.79 young reared for the lochans. The loch is a popular place to watch divers and it is noteworthy that the poorer breeding success on the loch started in 1975 coin- ciding with an increase in birdwatching parties visiting Ork- ney. Some of these parties were advised that the loch was a good place to see divers, and visitors to a local hotel were taken to the loch and actually shown divers’ nests. In his study of Red-throated Divers on Unst (Shetland) in 1973 and 1974, Bundy (1976) found a breeding success of 0.37 and 0.46 young per pair respectively, and on Yell and Unst in 1976 (Bundy 1978) the success was 0.35 young per pair. While his figures are for single years only and may not be directly comparable with the overall figure for eight years in Orkney (0.67 young per pair) they certainly show a lower breeding success in Shetland. One reason suggested for the nesting failures in Shetland was the increase in the number of breeding pairs of Great Black-backed Gulls and skuas (Bundy 1978). In Orkney there has not only been an increase in these species during the same period, but also an increase in the numbers of breeding pairs of Red-throated Divers (Balfour 1968). This rise in the numbers of potential predators of eggs and small young would in my opinion only have a significant effect if it was also asso- ciated with human disturbance. There was no evidence to suggest that water levels affected nesting success. Acknowledgments I am very grateful to Dr P. B. Heppleston and P. Reynolds for their 38 RED-THROATED DIVERS IN ORKNEY 12(2) advice with the preparation of this paper, to my family for assistance with the field work and to Mrs M. F. Cuthbert and D. Lea for informa- tion. Summary The fledging success of Red-throated Divers in Orkney was monitored on eight lochans and one loch over eight years. On the lochans 0.79 young fledged per pair per year and for the loch 0.55 young per pair; human disturbance was greater on the loch. Fledging occurs from mid July to late September, A number of ways in which human activity can affect nesting success is discussed. References Batrour (E.) 1968. Breeding birds of Orkney. Scottish Birds 5: 89-104. BucKLEY (T. E.) & HarviE-Brown (J. A.) 1891. A Vertebrate Fauna of the Orkney Islands. Edinburgh. Bunpy (G.) 1976. Breeding biology of the Red-throated Diver. Bird Study 23: 249-256. — 1978. Breeding Red-throated Divers in Shetland. British Birds 71: 199- 208. Cramp (S.) (ed.) et al. 1977. Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa: the Birds of the Western Palearctic, vol. I. Oxford University Press. Lea (D.) (1978). Orkney Bird Report 1976-7. C. J. Booth, ‘Ronas’, 34 High Street, Kirkwall, Orkney Wintering coastal waders of Lewis and Harris N. E. BUXTON There are few published accounts of the numbers and dis- tribution of the waders wintering on the coastal areas of the Outer Hebrides. As on mainland Britain, data are least avail- able from rocky shores. Studies on the mainland have sugges- ted that the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry, assessing only the wader populations of various soft coast habitats, excludes a large proportion of birds using rocky shores. On the east coast of Scotland there have been attempts to remedy this (Sum- mers et al. 1975, da Prato & da Prato 1976 a-b), and Atkinson et al. (1978) have assessed the winter distribution of a single species, the Purple Sandpiper. During the winter 1978/9 over 140 km of Lewis and Harris coastline were surveyed to inves- tigate these wader populations in the Outer Hebrides. Study area and methods Lewis and Harris together constitute the largest island in the Outer Hebrides. They are formed almost entirely from 1982 WINTERING COASTAL WADERS 39 LEWIS ‘ ~ Peninsula 4 ——*, HARRIS f 3 O Kms 20 FicureE. Lewis and Harris showing (heavy line) the area counted, (1) Tong Saltings, (2) Luskentyre Banks, (3) Northton Saltings. Lewisian gneiss except a small area to the northeast of Stor- noway which includes Tong Saltings where red sandstones and conglomerates occur. The eastern coasts (figure) tend to have an intricately fretted shoreline with very little sediment, but on the west a considerable amount of calcareous sand is deposited. However, this does not preclude areas of rocky coastline. Consequently on both east and west coasts the sandy bays are interspersed between boulder beaches, rock platforms covered with a variety of seaweeds, and high cliffs, often with offshore rocks. The coastline was divided into sections, and each, with three exceptions, was counted once during the period Novem- ber to February. The exceptions were the tidal flats of Tong Saltings in Lewis and those of Luskentyre and Northton in Harris. These are estuarine sandy flats and saltmarsh where repeated counts were made. A pilot study on the Eye Penin- sula (Buxton 1979) demonstrated that certain shore types, e.g. cliffs and some rocky configurations, supported few birds. Such areas were omitted from the present study. 40 WINTERING COASTAL WADERS 12(2) Birds were counted as they moved when the observer walked along the shore. Counting was preferably carried out around the low tide period since this was the best way of assessing the Turnstone and Purple Sandpiper populations, which were often inaccessible at high tide. Unfortunately all counts could not be undertaken at the same state of tide due to the short daylight hours in winter. Where the shore was inaccessible the tideline was carefully scanned through bino- culars and very few Turnstones or Purple Sandpipers are thought to have been missed. A planimeter was used to measure the areas of rocky shore (6.1 km?) and sandy shore (12.8 km?) from which densities could be calculated. Results The numbers of waders frequenting the areas of Lewis and Harris counted are presented as the peak totals (summing the maximum counts at all sites during the period November to February) for each species (table 1). Oystercatcher Table 1. Winter numbers and distribution of waders in Lewis and Harris in 1978/9 Rocky shore (6.1 km2} Sandy shore (12.8 km2) Density Density Total No. % /km2 No. % /km2 Oystercatcher 1,053 407 39 67 646 61 50 Ringed Plover 340 134 39 22 206 61 16 Knot 85 0 —_— — 85 100 ih Purple Sandpiper 260 259 100 42 1 Ov XOL § a TO ze OL'793 20 7% + 0”x8 & fe (YGD ul ape) 06°03 20 9€ AZ OS x OL : : : S667 20 9€ 4OZ 0G XL > os42 F 20 BL ocxs }SIAO}IONY| 09'923 20 SZ 40Z Ov x8 5 G66z 3 20G€ OS XZ (ueissny) G7@'e7F ZO 8L 4OZ O€X8 = oo'ez F 70 He eal s$olj3H 201g 1B19M l2POIN) ous. 3 2096 —_uiaidouey OS x OL sjiejnooulg yuel4 Sojse é 0062 $ 209€ waydouer 0 x OL S6tr F ZOgL wajdouer o¢ x 8 euar SS13a7 l 1g 1 E | | UD & Osh F = 207 UOW\ag Ob x 8 8 oSe8 ¥ zOogEe yodman 0S x OL 3 Os601F 208€ — uognpnY yx G's IMS *s198jep ssulebe eejueienb = OOLHZF 2047 eueld Op X OL qyaigey aeeA-ua} |jny & Aiieo pue ueder gLosey 209E Wleldvo/a9SxXB Ul apew ase S}ualuN4ysu) Queadns O6'vEEF 209% W\eIG VO/dOr x OL asay | “S}Uated|nbad je ys 07 TIIBZF —- ZOOT Ulelg soe x 8 (388M) SjapOW JO ad|0Y e 42430 SiejnoouIq 9VLplLF — z09 rjelg g0z xX 8 SS187 _ ue1y Saveyd esau) “saltiiouine: 2d = =—-14B1aMy 2PoIN = fetes ae ear) Jaret Aq pasn JUJ0 Bulpea| Ag paidajas J Ayyurey ayy [ye 105 Essep DO uIg query Sapzeyy S2d1id JUNODSIP }e sayew Ajjenb do} 19430 t. ae Hee *- ISSN 0036-9144 SCOTTISH 5 SEP 1985 4, PURCHASED “Ny Oy THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 3 AUTUMN 1982 Publication 6th August 1982 BIRD HABITATS in Britain by R. J. Fuller Rob Fuller’s book is a sequel to the BTO’s Register of Ornithological Sites, itself the product of an incalculable amount of fieldwork by birdwatchers and others, in which about 4000 sites were recorded. The book describes the main habitat types, wetland and terrestrial, their associated bird life through the seasons, and the distribution of sites throughout Britain. It offers the birdwatcher a detailed resumé of typica! and less typical species likely to be met in each habitat. There are over 50 illustrations by Donald Watson, numerous maps and diagrams and more than 60 photographs. 320 pages plus 32 plates, £13.00 net ISBN 0 85661 031 3 T & AD POYSER Calton, Waterhouses, Staffordshire ST10 3JX BOOKS BIRDS and ISLANDS St Kilda, Orkney, Shetland, Hebrides and Natural History especially Ornithology Books and libraries bought. Collection can usually be arranged during my visits to Scotland and the High- lands and Islands. DAVID WILSON 95 Worlds End Lane Weston Turville Aylesbury, Bucks. (Stoke Mandeville 2247) Isle of Jura Self catering, comfortable, modern, semi-detached cottage beside sea. Well equipped. Sleeps two only. * Send s.a.e. for details to Mrs Paton Craighouse ISLE OF JURA - ARGYLL Tel. 049682 242 CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. Binocular Repairs RE you a cross-eyed birdwatch- er? Even with careful use, binoculars can become mis-aligned over a period. We offer a special service of cleaning and re-align- ment at the prices listed below for any make or size of hand-held binocular. RSPB and SOC members (please state you are a member) £12.85 including p and p and VAT. Non-members £16.52, A full repair service is also available. Send to: Service Dept. Charles Frank Ltd, PO Box 5, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2NL. CYGNUS WILDLIFE Birdwatching holidays at realistic prices... GAMBIA 16 days 26 November - 11 December The delightful west African Republic of Sene-Gambia is an ideal country to gain an introduction to the colourful bird-life of Africa. In a friendly, sunny environment we will be making the acquaintance of over 200 species during this leisurely paced tour which includes a 4-day excursion by riverboat along the Gambia river. Leader John Ward. £850 SRI LANKA 22 days 10-31 January 1983 Sri Lanka is a tropical island paradise for natural history with a wealth of birds and mammals disproportionate to its modest size. Over 20 of the bird species are endemic to the island and few places in Asia are better for viewing Leopard and Elephant. 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Sites, Birds £395* “Straight” Travel: We are a fully licenced travel agency dealing mainly with University Senior Members. Our experience of Sabbaticals, Lecture Tours and Conferences is entirely at your disposal for accurate planning of long itineraries or economical Conference arrangements. Registration : Costs nothing, does not commit you in any way but gives you first sight of the brochure on publication. PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN AND GOWN TRAVEL, 40/41 SOUTH PARADE, .B. pe SUMMERTOWN, OXFORD, £y Fe OX2 7JP. oo y iY Phone Oxford (0865) 511341-23 Ais Fully Bonded Atol No. 273 SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 3, AUTUMN 1982 Page Corrections aaa : a ae ste ide = 65 The abundance and ne distribution of Clyde Estuary shorebirds (J. B. Halliday, D. J. Curtis, D. B. A. Thompson, E. M. Bignal & J. C. Smyth) as oe 65 Observations and food of Hen Harriers at a winter roost in Orkney (N. Picozzi & M. F. Cuthbert) mn Ht 73 Bird watching at St Abb’s Head (S. R. D. da Prato)... 81 Short Notes Response of Storm Petrels to calls of other species (B. Zonfrillo) wes ae 85 A new colony of Leach’s Petrels (J. A. Fowler & J. C. Butler) 86 Elusive Chiffchaffs (A. W. ‘Brown & R. W. Ji Smith) 87 Merlin apparently preying on Common Frog (G. Rebecca) 89 Persistent predators (R. Parr) ae 89 Exe pNonal proximity of two pairs of nesting Merlins N. Dymond) ain oe ead ee ae 90 Reviews Estuary Birds of Britain and Ireland by A. J. Prater (David Bryant) a oe 91 The Cuckoo by Ian Wyllie (Stan da Prato) ei are 92 Instinctive Navigation of Birds Py) E. C. Gerrard (Norman Elkins) : ae 93 Notices sts ae ie mee vas ar $3 The Scottish Genitnaiease Club a aoe = 94 Branch News is 2s eae es oe one 96 Acting Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe SUNBIRD BIRDTOUR EXPERTS WF. SPECIALISE IN SMALL-GROUP HOLIDAYS FOR UP TO 16 PEOPLE, CATERING FOR BEGINNER AND EXPERT Tour leaders include : Bryan Bird, Mike Everett, David Fisher, Peter Grant, Tom Gullick, Mike H:¢.*2on, Frank King, Will Russeli, Don Turner, Alan Vitery. 1983 Tours ISRAEL SIBERIA & *ECUADOR & TURAEY MONGOLA GALAPAGOS GREECE KASHMIR & *TRINIDAD & CAMARGUE & LADAKH TOBAGO PYRENEES THAILAND *§. MEXICO SPAIN *NEW GUINEA * ALASKA MAJORCA * SURINAME *ARIZONA & MORDCCO AUSTRALIA CALIFORNIA KENYA THE GAMBIA *TEXAS SCUT I /FRICA *With our associates WINGS INC. (USA) For details please contact : SUNBIRD at ©XECUTIVE TRAVEL (Holidays) LTD 2 Lower Sloane Street, London SWIW 8BJ Telephone 01 - 730 6609 mker company of the SERENISSIMA Travel Group Ltd ABTA IATA ATOLL AITO SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 3 Autumn 1982 Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and S. R. D. da Prato. Correction. We apologise for an error in the Isle of May Report SB 12(2). Page 48 line 8 should read ‘Few Guillemots and Razorbills are ringed each year; in contrast Puffins are our most ringed species but compara- tively few recoveries are reported (a good sign).” We have been asked to point out that although D. J. Bates edited most of SB 12(2) he was not responsible for the captions. The abundance and feeding distribution of Clyde Estuary shorebirds J. B. HALLIDAY, D. J. CURTIS, D. B. A. THOMPSON, E. M. BIGNAL & J. C. SMYTH Reclamation and industrialisation present ever-in- creasing threats to shorebird feeding areas on the Clyde. This study identifies the relative importance of various stretches of mudflat and indicates the potential value of this knowledge in minimising the impact of such developments on the Estuary’s birds. The tidal flats of the Clyde Estuary are now considered to be internationally important feeding grounds for ducks and waders. The Clyde was one of twelve British and Irish estua- ries holding more than 2,000 Shelduck in 1971-72 and was also ranked 19th in importance for waders in a list comparing British estuaries (Prater 1976). The relatively small area of tidal flats (about 19.3km?) supports the third highest recorded density of waders (peak count of 1,750 waders per km?) in Scotland, only exceeded by the Ythan and Eden estuaries (Bryant & McLusky, 1976). During 1976/77 a systematic survey of the usage of the Clyde’s tidal flats by feeding birds was commissioned by the Nature Conservancy Council and reported by Halliday (1978). This paper deals with the winter period only, when numbers of birds were highest, and offers an assessment of the status of birds feeding on the tidal flats, and the relative importance 66 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 12(3) of feeding areas. The data obtained serve as a baseline for further studies, for example the possible effects of further industrialisation and land reclamation on the estuary. Methods A team of five observers, led by J.B.H., undertook the survey over a full year from September 1976 to August 1977 inclusive. The intertidal flats between Woodhall and Erskine on the south shore of the estuary (fig.) and between Milton Island and Craigendoran on the north shore were divided into 31 manageable study areas. Each area was covered from a hide at one observation point, from where all birds present could be seen. Unfortunately, the position, extent and undulating surface of the Pillar Bank prevented its coverage from the shoreline. Six sample periods were defined: September-mid October 1976, mid October-November 1976, December 1976-February 1977 (highlighted in this paper), March-April 1977, May-June 1977 and July-August 1977. During each of these periods each study area was covered by an observer for two 6-7 hour per- iods (ebb and flow tides) to provide data for a complete tidal cycle. A sampling grid of 0.2 x 0.2 km squares was used re- lating to the O.S. grid. During every half-hour the number of feeding birds in each grid square (as well as the amount of tidal coverage) was recorded. Total observations over the fuil tidal cycle, i.e. the summed half-hourly counts, were divided by two to express feeding activity as ‘bird feeding hours’, i.e. number of birds x hours spent feeding. These results provided detailed quantitative information on the feeding distributions of nine commonly occurring species considered below. Any disturbance and weather conditions were also noted. Size of Ciyde Estuary bird populations The quantitative observations on feeding birds during this survey augment evidence from roost counts and ringing data (Prater 1976, Gibson 1978, Furness & Galbraith 1980). Gibson et al. (in prep.) give a fuller account of status of Clyde birds over the past eleven years. Of the ducks and waders, Shel- duck, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Dunlin and Redshank were most numerous (table 1 below) and therefore were likely to be most vulnerable to industrial development within the es- tuary. During winter numbers of Lapwing were highly var- iable, with a large resident flock (say 2,000-3,000) being sup- plemented during severe weather (H. Galbraith pers. comm.), when inland grounds were unproductive for feeding. Curlew, though somewhat less numerous, still depended on the estua- rine habitat for much of the year. The Black-headed Gull fed in extremely high numbers during late summer (when they used the estuary for moulting) and less numerously between 67 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 1982 *S10499S Q O}UT pauTo;sjred Arengsy spAIO 94} Jo syeB Tepy} eUL “D1 AVG a9qlud SNINSYS NOLTIWg NOLYVawnd NVYOGNSSIWYD - Ld JYOWTYV QINVG YVT1Id S3qn 19x43) id 3YOWdYVY - HOOdYV H20dYV - N3AR7 'a NdA31 ‘Y - SI NOLTIW SNINSY3S - Ld HONWHONOT (,1NVaGNW, S3qNI9NI ‘Ld HONOHONOT ~'AuYa4 1S3 Addsd LSSM - >ANVEONVT ANVGONVT - T1IVHTOOM ANM +tNON N3A31 qa YyO1L33S SW G es es rT SIW ¢ vi I 0 ee LN10d See aNoL exw ant Ho0auV a T1VHATOOM ssouayuyo © AYOWCAY , NVYOCN39IVYD g YS 68 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 12(3) October and March. Mallard and Greenshank, though less numerous and frequent, are also considered here. These nine species were studied in detail; the presence of 47 other species was noted. International convention (see Saeijs and Baptist 1980 for recent review) has established that any site holding 1% or more of the known west European population and/or 6% of the British population is considered of ‘international’ impor- tance. Areas supporting at least 1% of the British population are ‘nationally’ important. Table 1 summarises the status of observed populations on the Clyde Estuary according to these customary criteria. The great abundance of the birds on the tidal flats was the stimulus and justification for our detailed study of their feeding distribution. Table 1 Status of birds on the Clyde Estuary in a W. European and British context Species Peak count Peak counts Clyde Estuary peak Importance (a) during (b)on Clyde counts (b) expressed 1976/77 survey Estuary as % of W.European & British wintering totals JoW.Europe %British Shelduck1! 1,200 2,330 1.9 4.7 International (Feb) (Feb 73) Mallard 340 1,400 — — — (Nov) (Dec 73) Oystercatcher! 2,500 5,250 0.9 2.6 National (Nov & Feb) (Nov 73) Lapwing 6,300 6,648 — ? — (Nov) (Feb 73) Dunlin1 8,700 9,380+ 0.8 1.7 National (Nov) (Feb 76) Curlewl 746 1,000 0.7 1.7 National (Sept) (Feb 74) Redshank1 9,700 10,800 8.6 13.5 International (Nov) (Oct 74) Greenshank2 4l 41 _— ? Scottish (Sept) (Sept 76) Black-headed2 10,000+ 32,390 — ° National Gull (Aug) (Sept 72) Notes Goldeneye and Eider often exceeded 1% of British total. Pintail was just under 1%. These birds do not exploit the tidal flats to the same extent as the above mentioned. See Prater (1976) and Halliday (1978) for numbers representing 1% of total wintering populations in W. Europe and Britain. 2 The estuary is considered important for Greenshank because they com- prise over 30% of the Scottish wintering population (Gibson 1978). The estuary is second only to the Wash for numbers of Black-headed Gulls in Britain (Prater 1976). ay 1982 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 69 Factors influencing feeding distribution Many factors influence the choice of feeding areas on estuarine flats by birds and lead to non-uniform distribution. For example, availability of suitable food, timing and extent of tidal flat exposure or coverage, amount of disturbance, degree of shelter and distance from secure roosts, all have variable effects on different species. In combination they pro- duce a complex pattern of feeding distributions. Food organisms vary spatially over the estuary and some food organisms are more ‘patchy’ than others (Smyth et all. 1977, Curtis 1978). This is likely to determine the feeding dis- persion of birds, especially if they concentrate their feeding on one food species (e.g. see Goss-Custard 1977; Bryant 1979). For each sample square of the tidal flats, the estimation of bird feeding hours provided a measure of its use through a complete tidal cycle. Division of the total bird feeding hours by the area of the section quantifies the intensity of usage in terms of the density of feeding birds. This is given in table 2 for eight sectors of the tidal flats. Table 2 Feeding densities in mid winter for 8 sectors of the tidal flats. Density expressed as ‘bird feeding hours’ per tidal cycle, per km2, for sectors marked on Fig. South shore North shore 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 No. 0.2km x 0.2km squares 61 46 58 36 42 80 103 45 Shelduck 75.0 479 76.2 26.2 3.3 9.7 8.0 22.4 Mallard 19 45.3 6.3 0.0 13.9 3.9 0.0 0.4 Oystercatcher 23.5 153.1 869 47.7 86.2 191.2 29.3 56.9 Lapwing 74.2 188.2 156.0 239.1 71.3 445 13.1 £182 Dunlin 121.8 348.5 236.4 1552 47.5 2152 10.4 4.1 Curlew 22.7 168 8.7 0.0 1.0 veal 6.4 15.1 Redshank 90.4 150.8 253.9 312.2 397.0 280.1 28.3 27.2 Greenshank 2.3 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.2 0.5 0.0 Black-headed Gull 43.2 47.5 163.7 765 1225 668 134 27.6 All 9 Species 455.0 998.3 988.1 8569 743.1 818.7 109.4 171.0 Two areas of outstanding importance can be identified: the south shore between Langbank and Longhaugh Bay (inclusive) and the north shore between Milton and Ardoch. The flats 70 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 12(3) between Milton and Dumbarton and at Erskine were more elevated. They were therefore first to be exposed and last to flood, hence supporting high concentrations of feeding birds, e.g. Redshank, towards high tide. In contrast the ‘mudbank’, the mussel beds between Woodhall and Finlaystone, the flats just west of the Leven mouth and the Pillar Bank were all low- lying. They were last to be uncovered and could only be ex- ploited around low tide, commonly by Oystercatcher and Curlew. The bay north of Ardmore was slow to flood and ex- posed during neap high tides. This was favoured by Shelduck and Oystercatcher towards high tide in mid-winter. Some movement was seen to the Pillar Bank near low tide, particularly from the adjacent north shore between Ardoch and Ardmore. It is unfortunate that the enormous Pillar Bank could not be covered because it has supported up to 3,500 Eider and attracted large numbers of other species at low tide including over 500 Oystercatcher and similar numbers of Dun- lin. Its several attractions include very rich mussel and Hydrobia populations, relative protection from shore distur- bance because of its peninsular placement, and its role as an ‘extra-time’ feeding area. Undoubtedly, a major factor determining the importance of these areas is the nature of the food supply (Smyth et al. 1974, 1977, Halliday & Smyth 1978 and Thompson 1981). Correla- tions between bird and invertebrate distributions will be con- sidered in more detail in a separate paper but may be sum- marised as follows. The distributions of Redshank, Dunlin, Lapwing and Black-headed Gull correlated with those of Nereis and Corophium, Shelduck did not correlate with any single species during winter, feeding in discrete concentrations along the entire length of the flats and moving up the estuary in spring, feeding on Corophium and small worms. Greenshank differed from the others by solitarily feeding in pools on small crabs and gammarids. The Nereis/Corophium area lies in the eastern part of the estuary (sectors 3, 4 and 5), approximately 60% of it on the south shore and 40% on the north. This could account for higher numbers of feeding waders on the south flats compared with the north, but not entirely for the difference in feeding density, evident in table 2. The picture is complex, but the quantification of area usage is important for objective assess- ment of feeding distributions. Implications for conservation Industrialisation and land reclamation have significantly reduced winter feeding grounds in this country for estuarine birds such as migrant waders, seaduck and other shorebirds. 1982 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 71 The Clyde presents an attractive prospect for further reclam- ation and consequently is threatened with industrial develop- ment (Bignal 1978). These developments would reduce the extent of available feeding grounds including those with the richest food supplies and thus depress the carrying capacity of the Clyde Estuary for wintering birds. The forced move- ment of Clyde birds to neighbouring areas, e.g. Forth, could overburden such areas which already contain large popula- tions. The maximum amount of time available for feeding may be reduced, as observed on the Tees by Evans (1977), causing increased competition between species and particularly caus- ing hardship to species which feed for the greatest length of time available, e.g. Redshank and Dunlin. The data currently available make it possible to appraise the importance of these feeding grounds at any scale from a twenty-fifth of a square kilometre upwards. Clearly this could improve the selection of areas for reclamation if one wished to minimise its impact on bird flocks. These throngs of birds provide a valuable natural asset within a heavily populated and industrialised region; for this reason, and in the contexts described, they should be appre- ciated and protected. Acknowledgments We would particularly like to thank Messrs J. Chester, B. Thurston, C. Walker, G. White, and R. Wilson for undertaking much of the field work and helping with data collation. We thank Dr R. W. Furness and Messrs H. Galbraith and I. Gibson for constructive comments. The Job Creation Programme and the Nature Conservancy Council provided fin- ancial support for which we are very grateful. The staff of the Computer Centre at Paisley College have advised and co-operated throughout the study. Finally we thank Mrs Eleanor Webster for typing the manuscript. Summary The tidal flats of the Clyde Estuary were surveyed between September 1976 and August 1977 to quantify the abundance and distribution of feeding birds. The international and national importance of the main bird populations is given. Two main areas were identified as being of outstanding value as winter feeding grounds: firstly the south shore from Langbank to Longhaugh Bay inclusive and secondly the north shore between Milton and just west of the Leven mouth. Factors affecting usage of these grounds, including food supply and tidal movements, are eeecusced and some implications for the conservation of the tidal flats are noted. References BiGnaL (E. M.) 1978. General conservation issues relating to the Clyde Es- tuary. Nature Conservation Interests in the Clyde Estuary: 30-34. Sym- posium Report, Paisley College, Nature Conservancy Council, RSPB (Held in SOC library). 72 CLYDE ESTUARY SHOREBIRDS 12(3) BRYANT (D. M.) 1979. Effects of prey density and site character on estuary usage by overwintering waders (Charadrii). Estuar. Coast. Mar. Sci. 9: 369-384. BRYANT (D. M.) & McLusky (D. J. ) 1976. Invertebrate and bird fauna of the Forth Estuary mudflats. Report to Nature Conservancy Council. Curtis (D. J.) 1978. Distrindution of invertebrates on the tidal flats. Nature conservation interests in the Clyde Estuary: 15-24. Symposium Report, Paisley College, Nature Conservancy Council, RSPB. Evans (P. R.) 1977. Reclamation of intertidal land : some effects on T. tadorna and wader populations in the Tees Estuary, England. Bulletin of Inter- national Waterfowl Research Bureau. 43/44: 66-67. FURNESS (R. W.) and GALBRAITH (H.) 1980. Numbers, passage and local move- ments of redshanks Tringa totanus on the Clyde estuary as shown by dye- marking. Wader Study Group Bulletin 29: 19-21. Gisson, I. 1978. Numbers of birds on the Clyde Estuary. Nature Conservation interests in the Clyde Estuary: 1-5. Symposium Report, Paisley College, Nature Conservancy Council, RSPB. Goss.CustTarp (J. D.) 1977. Responses of Redshank, Tringa totanus to the absolute and relative densities of two prey species. J. Anim. Ecol. 46: 867-874. HALLIDAY (J. B.) 1978. The feeding distribution of birds on the Clyde Estuary tidal flats. Unpublished report to Nature Conservancy Council, Paisley College. 50pp. (Held in SOC library). HAuLuipay (J. B.) & SmytTH (J. C.) 1978. Feeding distribution of birds on the Clyde Estuary tidal flats. Nature conservation interests in the Clyde Es- tuary: 6-14. Symposium Report, Paisley College, Nature Conservancy Council, RSPB. PRATER (A. J.) 1976. Annual Report of the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry 1974/75. BTO, RSPB, WT Publication. Sarlys (H. L. F.) & Baptist (H. J. M.) 1980. Coastal Engineering and European wintering wetland birds. Biological Conservation: 17: 63-83. SmytTH (J. C.), Curtis (D. J.), GrBson (J.) & WILKINSON (M.) 1974. Intertidal organisms of an industrialized estuary. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 5: 188-191. SmyYTH (J. C.), Curtis (D. J.), HALLIDAY (J. B.) & SToBIE (R. E. F.) 1977. Birds and invertebrates of the Clyde Estuary tidal flats. Western Naturalist 6: 73-101. THOMPSON (D. B. A.) 1981 (in press). Feeding behaviour of winter shelduck Tadorna tadorna (L) on the Clyde Estuary. Wildfowl. J. B. Halliday, Dr D. J. Curtis, D. B. A. Thompson and Professor J. C. Smyth, Department of Biology, Paisley College, Paisley, and Dr E. M. Bignal, Nature Conservancy Council, South West (Scotland) Region, Loch Lomond Castle, Balloch, Dunbartonshire. 1982 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 73 Observations and food of Hen Harriers at a winter roost in Orkney N. PICOZZI and M. F. CUTHBERT In winter ‘ringtails’ markedly outnumber adult males at communal roosts in Orkney. The authors suggest that the proportionately greater emigration of males reflects their preference for small passerine prey rather than the more readily available mammals preferred by the females. This paper reports on counts of Hen Harriers at the largest of 12 known communal roosts on Mainland (Orkney) from 1975-81, and on an analysis of pellets collected there. The aims of the study were to record the use of the roost by win- tering harriers, to discuss possible reasons for them roosting communally, and to determine their winter prey in Orkney. Previous studies by Watson & Dickson (1972) and Watson (1977) at roosts in southwest Scotland included some immi- grant harriers in the counts, e.g. they saw marked birds from Glen Dye (Kincardineshire), 250 km away, and from Orkney, 430 km away (Watson 1977). Orkney has the most northerly breeding population of harriers in Britain, and birds wintering there were presumably residents because most of those seen were birds which had been colour marked in the breeding season. Possible immigration from the small population in Scandinavia (Bijleveld 1974) can be discounted because the one or two sightings of harriers each year at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory (96 km northeast of Mainland) did not coincide with migrants known to be of Scandinavian origin; these were probably birds which had dispersed from Orkney (R. Dennis pers. comm.). We have therefore been able to compare summer and winter observations to find whether more males than females left Orkney in winter. A greater emigration of males from Orkney in winter might be expected because although there appears to be no shortage of the mammalian prey preferred by females, the small birds pre- ferred by the more agile males would be more readily avail- able elsewhere at that time of year (see Schipper et al. 1975 and Marquiss 1980 concerning winter prey of male and female Hen Harriers). Methods About 80% of the harriers in Orkney nest on West Mainland, 74 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 12(3) and adults and nestlings have been wing tagged there since 1975. By July 1980, 66% of the breeding males, 89% of the breeding females and their 77 young were individually colour marked. The ratio of brown birds (adult females and subadults of both sexes) to grey birds (adult males) in the population at the end of each breeding season (on figure below) was calcu- lated from the total number of nesting females plus all fledged young (brown birds), and the total number of adult males estimated from the known proportion in a large sample of the (polygynous) breeding population (Picozzi, in prep.). An ex- ceptional number of non-breeding adults was identified in 1979 (15 females, two males) and these were included in the cal- culation for that year. Counting was done from a little hill 300 m from the centre of the roost. Watches began about an hour before sunset and ended 15 minutes after the last bird was seen. Any counts considered to be incomplete due to bad weather were dis- carded. An attempt was made to differentiate first year males from their smaller size; this was possible with early arrivals, but late arrivals in failing light could not be distinguished reliably. Consequently, we give data only for grey and brown birds. Pellets were oven dried slowly, weighed and analyzed dry, using the keys of Day (1965) and Yalden (1977). The propor- tion of the pellet occupied by each item was estimated by eye. No attempt was made to distinguish between the fur of mice (Muridae) and Orkney Voles Microtus arvalis orcadensis, as almost all the skulls and teeth found in the pellets were those of voles. The remains of Starlings occurred frequently and were distinguished from those of other passerines. Location and features of the roost The study roost was in a 1.5 ha bed of Reeds Phragmites up to 1.6m high. The nearest roosts to it were one in wet ground dominated by Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria 3 km to the south and another in Reeds 4 km to the east. All three roosts were surrounded by or next to the farmland and rough grazings seen to be hunted by the harriers in winter. Most harriers roosted near the centre of the reed beds on small patches of flattened vegetation or on tussocks of Deschampsia caespitosa. Pellets soon decomposed in the wet conditions, but up to ten were found at each site on the first visit to collect them. Counts Harriers used the roost from late September to mid April. 1982 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 75 Counts to the end of March are given on the figure. Tagged birds were seen on all counts; on the peak count in January 1981, fifteen (83%) of the eighteen birds seen well were tagged, which was similar to the proportion in the population in July 1980. There was some inter-island movement as individuals from Rousay and Eday (15 km and 25 km to the east) were identified at the roost in 1979 and 1980. The main features of the counts shown in the figure are: (1) Both grey and brown birds used the roost, but the num- ber of grey birds was generally not more than half that ex- pected from the proportion estimated to be in the population in July. Two or fewer males were seen on 90% ot 84 visits when birds were present at the roost, three on 8% and four only once. (2) Numbers fluctuated between counts. Although some individuals were known to use the roost regularly, others probably did not. Radio-tagged females used more than one roost (NP unpub.), and observations of birds flying over the roost at dusk but not stopping were probably birds visiting one roost but using another. It is also possible that some in- dividuals may have used a communal roost irregularly. No consistent pattern between years was apparent although there was a slight drop in the number of brown birds using the roost in mid-winter in four of the six years, and a rise in their numbers in late February/March in five years. These may only have been local fluctuations and it is not known if they reflected the situation in Orkney as a whole. However the late winter peaks could have been due to birds which had wintered elsewhere and which temporarily roosted commun- ally when they returned to Orkney. (3) The winter maximum at the study roost was similar each year (16, 14, 14, 21, 12, 19 in 1975-81). This suggests that either the roost, or the area hunted by birds using it, may have a capacity of about twenty birds. (4) Observations of tagged birds showed that the roost was occupied by adults and yearlings, but we have not given the proportion of each because too small a sample of tags could be identified with certainty in the poor light. Low counts in 1979/80 probably resulted from (a) a shortage of yearlings following the poor breeding season in 1979 when only thir- teen young were reared on west Mainland (Picozzi in prep.) and (b) more adults than usual leaving Orkney in that hard winter. Analysis of pellets We found 489 items in 356 pellets collected at the roost in 76 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 12(3) late March/early April in 1977-80. Results in the table are presented as proportion of total items (cf. Marquiss 1980), and as proportion by weight (this gives quantitative data but tends to overemphasise fur bearing prey which are swallowed whole). The proportion of pellets containing Rabbit Orycto- lagus cuniculus remains was low and fairly constant (11-21%), but the proportion containing small rodents (mainly vole) was more variable and ranged from 35-60%. Starlings were taken more often than any other passerine, and the propor- tion of passerines varied inversely to that of small rodents. The amount of vole remains in the pellets each year further indicated their importance as winter prey. Table. Analysis of pellets collected in March/April from a communal roost of Hen Harriers in Orkney Year 1977 1978 1979 1980 Number of pellets 44, 115 116 81 Number of items 71 149 165 104 % Small mammals 35 60 52 35 % Brown Rat = tf 2 3 % Rabbit ll 15 15 21 % Hedgehog — — ones 1 % Starling 33 1l 20 23 % All passerines 54 18 31 40 Weight of pellets (g) 66.8 183.7 183.2 102.5 % Small mammals 53 7 68 46 % Brown Rat a 8 3 4 Jo Rabbit 11 7 11 19 % Hedgehog —— pele =e 1 % Starling 24 7 ll 18 % All passerines 36 9 18 30 Discussion Sex ratio at the roost Since the mortality and dispersal of young (brown) birds would normally be greater than that of adults (Newton 1979), the ratio of brown to grey birds calculated for the population in July (fig.) probably overestimates that to be expected in winter in Orkney. The disproportionate ratio of brown: grey birds at the roost (10+:1 recorded every year) therefore strongly indicates a difference in the behaviour of adult males. It is unlikely that the study roost was atypical as counts at other roosts in Orkney produced similar results. Although it is possible that adult males are less likely to join communal roosts this has not been demonstrated and elsewhere in Brit- ain adult males sometimes predominate at communal roosts (Watson 1977). The most likely explanation is that more adult 1982 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 77 males than females wintered outside Orkney, presumably be- cause suitable prey items are more readily available elsewhere then. Even so, they may still survive less well than females (cf. Newton 1979). Males, being smaller, have relatively higher energy requirements, and some (particularly inexperienced yearlings) could have difficulty obtaining enough food in un- familiar country. Similarly, males may also be less able to withstand temporary food shortages in hard weather (cf. Newton 1979). There is a greater loss of male than of female harriers from the Orkney population (Picozzi, in prep.), and a difference in overwinter survival could explain most of this. 20 1975-76 1978-79 15 10 5 1979-80 1980-81 51:1 NUMBER OF HARRIERS AT THE ROOST SOND JS FM S ON DJ F M MONTH Figure. Number of Hen Harriers using a winter roost in Orkney from 1975-81. (triangles = males; circles = females. Ratios are those of brown:grey birds in July, see text). 78 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 12(3) We have considered adult males in the calculations because they were easily recognized, but the behaviour of yearling males probably differed from that of yearling females in win- ter. Results from recoveries of harriers ringed in Orkney are inconclusive, but those from Glen Dye (Kincardineshire) did show that young males moved further than young females from their natal area (Picozzi 1978). Function of the roost Communal roosts probably serve several functions simul- taneously. Ward & Zahavi (1973) suggested that they could act as information centres for birds new to an area to learn from the residents where to hunt most profitably. Evidence from Orkney for this suggestion would not be expected as most birds using the study roost were local. Birds were not seen to follow each other from the roost in the morning, but it is possible that those with empty crops the previous evening may have left in the direction from which birds with full crops then had arrived (Watson 1977). Gurr (1968) suggested that pair formation was an important function of the communal roost for the Australasian Harrier. This may be so for the Hen Harriers at roosts attended by several males, but so few males attended the study roost that pair formation, if it occurred, was unlikely to have been more than incidental at this roost and others like it. Watson (1977) thought that the primary function of the roost was social. We too saw many forms of social behaviour at the roost, but it can be argued that the observed behaviour was a consequence of birds of both sexes and/or different ages being in one place, rather than a reason for them being there. Lack’s (1968) suggestion that communal roosts are a de- fence against predation may be the main explanation for the harrier’s behaviour. Harriers, because they roost on _ the ground, are particularly vulnerable to mammalian predators. In our experience, Hen Harriers may be approached to within 10 m at night, but the other harriers in the roost then respon- ded to the alarm calls of the bird which was disturbed (see also Watson & Dickson 1972). Gurr (1968) and Weiss (1923) found that the Australasian Harrier and the Montagu’s Harrier respectively allowed close approach and flushed singly from the roost. Gurr therefore dismissed the possibility that the Australasian Harrier roosted communally for defence against predators. However, other birds in the roost may have been warned, but did not leave because to do so in the dark and then to find another place to roost was a greater risk than remaining concealed until the predator was close. 1982 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 79 Finally, the sites used for roosts in Orkney were all in long vegetation in wet areas which offered excellent shelter close to the hunting areas. It is therefore not surprising that several harriers used the same sites, resulting in their development as communal roosts. There are many apparently suitable and un- disturbed sites for roosts in Orkney. This probably accounts for the existence of several communal roosts, most of which hold not more than five birds. Winter prey Marquiss (1980) found remains of large prey items more often at roosts which were attended mainly by brown birds, and more remains of passerines at roosts with several grey birds. The proportion of large items (Rabbits) at the Orkney roost was therefore perhaps less than might have been ex- pected, especially as Rabbits were common near the roost. However, this was offset by the high occurrence of the large local vole (up to 63g, Southern 1964) which may have been easier to catch than adult Rabbits in winter. Some Rabbits, and almost certainly a Hedgehog, were probably taken as car- rion. Voles appeared to be a favoured winter prey and the 35% of items found in pellets in March 1977 was five times that brought to nests in summer 1977 (Picozzi 1980), probably be- cause they were much less available in summer in the long vegetation than other prey such as young Rabbits and birds. Orkney Vole numbers are believed to fluctuate less from year to year than other voles (Southern 1964) but the pellet ana- lyses can be interpreted as suggesting that they do fluctuate, and that passerines are preyed upon more in low vole years. Acknowledgments We are grateful to Dr D. Jenkins, Dr M. Marquiss and A. D. Watson for their comments on this paper in draft and to the late E. Balfour who was the first to locate the roost and told us of it. NP is also indebted to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds for permission to colour mark harriers on their reserves in Orkney, so making our study the more worth while. Summary 1. Most harriers which attended the largest communal roost on Main- land (Orkney) were known to be local birds from their wing tags. 2. There were fewer grey birds (adult males) at the winter roost than expected from the estimated proportion in the population in July. The most likely explanation was that more adult males than adult females wintered outside Orkney. 3. Possible reasons for communal roosting by Hen Harriers are dis- cussed and the most likely is considered to be defence against predation. The known roosts in Orkney also offered excellent shelter close to the hunting areas. 80 HEN HARRIER ROOST IN ORKNEY 12(3) 4. Pellet analyses showed that Orkney Voles were an important prey in winter. The proportion of voles in the pellets from 1977 to 1980 varied inversely to the proportion of the passerines. References BIJLEVELD (M.) 1974. Birds of Prey in Europe. London. Day (M. G.) 1965. Identification of hair and feather remains in the gut and faeces of stoats and weasels. J. Zool. 147: 201-217. Gurr (L.) 1968. Communal roosting behaviour of the Australasian Harrier Circus approzimans in New Zealand. Ibis 110: 332-7. Lack (D.) 1968. Ecological Adaptations for Breeding in Birds. London. Mareuiss (M.) 1980. Habitat and diet of male and female Hen Harriers in Scotland in winter. Brit. Birds 73: 555-560. NEwTon (I.) 1979. Population Ecology of Raptors. Poyser, Berkhamsted. Picozz1 (N.) 1978. Dispersion, breeding and prey of the Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus in Glen Dye, Kincardineshire. Ibis 120: 498-509. Prcozz1 (N.) 1980. Food, growth, survival and sex ratio of nestling Hen Har- riers Circus c. cyaneus in Orkney. Ornis Scand. 11: 1-11. ScHIPPER (W. J. A.), BuURMA (L. S.) & BOSSENBROCK (P. H.) 1975. Comparative study of hunting behaviour of wintering Hen Harriers Circus cyaneus and Marsh Harriers Circus aeruginosus. Ardea 63: 1-29. SouTHERN (H. N.) (ed) 1964. The Handbook of British Mammals. Oxford. Warp (P.) & ZAHAVI (A.) 1973. The importance of certain assemblages of birds as “information-centres” for food-finding. Jbis 115: 517-534. WaTsSon (D.) 1977. The Hen Harrier. Poyser, Berkhamsted. Watson (A. D.) & Dickson (R. C.) 1972. Communal roosting of Hen Harriers in south-west Scotland. Scottish Birds 7: 24.49. WeEIss (H.) 1923. Life of the Harrier in Denmark. London. YALDEN (D. W.) 1977. The Identification of Remains in Owl Pellets. Mammal Society, Reading. N. Picozzi, Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Hill of Brathens, Banchory, Kincardineshire. Dr M. F. Cuthbert, Vishabreck, Evie, Orkney. Hen Harrier Pate 8. The invertebrate-rich mudflats of the Clyde estuary (p.65) support internationally important numbers of Shelduck. I. J. Patterson More than 8,000 Dunlin are among the waders wintering there. S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato Pirates 9 & 10. Contrasting aspects of birdwatching at St Abb’s Head (p.81). a) Many thousand of Guillemots, Razorbills and Kittiwakes breed on the spectacular seacliffs. b) The shelter and cover around the Mire Loch attract small migrants, a few of which, like this Sedge Warbler, stay to nest. S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato Prate 11. ‘‘Ringtail’? Hen Harriers outnumber adult males at the winter roost in this Orkney reed-bed, shown against a back-drop of the Hoy hills (p.73). Upper - D. A. Smith Lower - N. Picozzi 1982 BIRDWATCHING AT ST ABBS 81 Birdwatching at St Abb’s Head S. R. D. da PRATO St Abb’s Head is a superb spot to watch birds. The cliff scenery, especially in rough weather, looks as wild as any of our remoter islands yet the Head is on the mainland and easily reached by road. Well known for seabirds, its position, coupled with an area of good cover immediately inland from the cliffs, makes it one of the best migrant traps on the Scottish main- land. Depending on the weather and the season the birder can watch breeding seabirds, offshore movements and migrant passerines, while there are wild flowers and insects for those naturalists not wholly obsessed by birds. There are two routes to the Head, either by walking the clifftop path from St Abbs village or taking the road to the lighthouse. The experienced migrant hunter will probably arrive by car, drive to the lighthouse and hurry down to inspect the cover by the Mire Loch. However, the first time visitor will get a better introduction to St Abb’s Head if he walks along the cliffs, which become more precipitous and crowded with seabirds as one progresses. Seabirds are ashore throughout the spring and early sum- mer though numbers of all except the Fulmars and resident Herring Gulls drop off after June. The indented coast offers excellent views of the cliff nesting species: over 10,000 each of Kittiwake and Guillemot with smaller numbers of Razorbills and Shags. Puffins are scarce and confined to rock crevices or steep grassy slopes which Foxes cannot reach. Gannets have never been recorded breeding but an endless procession passes offshore to and from the Bass Rock throughout the nesting season, and often at other times as well. Whatever the weather the seabird cliffs are spectacular. When the wind blows, especially in spring when birds are displaying, mating and nest building, it is their flight that catches the eye. On warm summer days the noise and smell impress the senses and further interest is provided by the young birds and the display of clifftop wild flowers. Even when the cliffs are shrouded in sea haar, a common associate of warm spring weather, good views of seabirds are possible. The path along the cliffs is perfectly safe although the cliff edge is not. Only the closest ledges are visible under these conditions but the effect of the mist swirling among the stacks, with flying birds appearing and disappearing through the fog and the background noise of birds and sea, is dramatic. 82 BIRDWATCHING AT ST ABBS 12(3) By late July the cliffs appear largely deserted. The auks are all out in the North Sea, the adult Guillemots and Razorbills flightless due to moult, shepherding their young towards the Scandinavian coast. Kittiwakes can still be seen and the failure of many juveniles to adjust to free flying independence is demonstrated by the corpses washed up below the cliffs, each with its distinctive black wing bar. Scottish summers usually have their share of rain and wind. Depending on the direction of the bad weather, seawatching can now replace cliffwatching. Seabird movements are likely whenever the wind blows from between north and southeast and pushes birds passing through the North Sea towards the shore. Obviously the species seen will depend on what is in the North Sea at the time, which is why late summer tends to pro- duce the most interesting movements. Besides large numbers of Gannets, Kittiwakes and Fulmars there is a good chance of seeing skuas and shearwaters. The rougher the weather the better, though keeping dry can be difficult unless one watches from the lighthouse car park. This is a good spot, but rather too high, since birds beating into the gale fly low, and the watcher prepared to brave the elements can get closer to the action by choosing a spot nearer sea level. Shearwaters are much less likely after September but skuas, notably Pomarine, are still possible. As autumn progresses, the seawatcher will record parties of ducks, geese and divers arriving to winter in Britain, as well as the returning auks; Guillemots and Razor- bills are often seen on or near the cliffs from October onwards. Spring also sees seabird movements but, apart from an occa- sional Manx, shearwaters are much rarer than in August or September and skuas, other than a few Arctic and Bonxie, are also less likely. Although any strong wind with an easterly component is likely to produce seabird movements, falls of small migrants require more specialized conditions. Basically the difference is that seabirds mean to be at sea but small passerines are in great danger once over the water and normally cross sea areas in good, calm conditions when they can complete their journey safely and unseen by observers on the ground. The most likely weather pattern to produce a fall of migrants at sites like St Abbs is when an Atlantic depression, pushing in from the southwest of Britain, is delayed by high pressure over Scandinavia or continental Europe. The resulting southeasterly air flow drifts migrants which had set off in good conditions and, if they encounter bad weather over the North Sea, then they alight on the first land they can find. The beginner should remember that even with the wind in the southeast large numbers of migrants are not guaranteed. 1982 BIRDWATCHING AT ST ABBS 83 If the weather is reasonably bright then drifted birds can reorientate, while if conditions are really bad, with fog and rain between the observer and the birds, then they may never reach land. However, some birds should be seen under these conditions. The really spectacular falls occur when birds run into a front and are deflected, often landing in numbers on a relatively small area. Clearly the observer must learn to inter- pret the weather maps now so readily available on television. Indeed this forecasting can add to the fun of the outing as it soon becomes clear whether the birder anticipated correctly or not. Although literally millions of small birds migrate through Europe every spring and autumn they are normally only ‘vis- ible’ to a handful of privileged ornithologists with access to radar. For the rest of us falls at sites such as St Abbs are our only opportunity to experience something of these tremen- dous movements at first hand. Whether or not rarities turn up is relatively unimportant. However they are fun to see and can be a useful pointer to the origins of the more numerous and familiar birds. There are several island and coastal sites round Britain renowned as spots to see migrants. The distinctive feature of St Abb’s Head is the presence of a sheltered area of fresh- water and vegetation immediately behind the cliffs. The Mire Loch is artificial, formed by the damming of the valley which marks a line of geological faulting. It is too small to hold many wildfowl and too steep sided for waders but its banks have a variety of trees and scrub and there is a small reedbed. In a southeasterly gale the contrast between the cliff tops and the lochside is dramatic. The cliffs and grassland on their tops are buffeted by the wind and small birds are conspicuous by their absence. Descending towards the Mire Loch the first thing that strikes the observer is the calm and quiet as he moves into shelter. If he has read the weather charts correctly the next thing he will notice is the migrants. After a big fall it is the sound of the birds and their intermittent, flickering movements in and out of cover and over the loch that attract attention. Conditions are usually overcast if not actually rain- ing and, especially in August and September, the amount of foliage means that specific identification can be a slow busi- ness. The secret is to watch quietly and the birds will reveal themselves. The best time is immediately after rain ceases as birds that have been sheltering begin to feed. If the sun emer- ges very good views can be had but they are likely to be brief as most migrants soon continue on their journeys. There appear to be interesting differences between St Abb’s 84 BIRDWATCHING AT ST ABBS 12(3) Head and islands such as the Isle of May. This is probably due to the island’s more isolated position which draws in birds in bad conditions. St Abbs compares favourably for warblers and flycatchers but records markedly fewer shrikes, buntings and thrushes. This emphasises the value of the cover at St Abbs which is far better than on the Isle of May and attracts small insectivorous species whereas other birds quickly move on and disperse inland through Berwickshire. Anyone anxious to see particular migrant species should consult Scottish and Border Bird Reports since some species tend to occur in fairly specific periods. Autumn produces lar- ger numbers and more rarities than spring simply because there are so many juveniles about and these are much more likely to wander off course than experienced adults. However spring sees some birds, notably male Bluethroats and Pied Flycatchers, at their best. Although not rare the sight of Wheatears among clifftop wild flowers on a sunny May morning is very fine. Remember also to check the rocky gullies and even the lighthouse buildings for Black Redstart. Willow Warbler and Pied Flycatcher are the two com- monest migrants in August, when there is also the chance of Icterine Warbler. Redstarts, Goldcrests and the Sylvia warblers become common later in the autumn while Blackcap, Gold- crest and Robin often reach three figures in October, Chiff- chaffs also feature in late autumn which is the most likely time for one of the Siberian Phylloscopus warblers; so far Yellow- browed, Greenish and Dusky have all been recorded. Since no mistnetting has been carried out the status of some warblers, ay the Acrocephalus species, is not properly under- stood. Every October thousands of thrushes cross the North Sea from Scandinavia to Scotland. Unlike many smaller migrants these are not drifted off their normal course although they can suffer in bad weather. When this happens spectacular falls can occur with birds literally pouring out of the overcast sky. In normal conditions most thrushes overfly St Abb’s Head but the Hawthorns round Mire Loch always attract some. Blackbirds are usually the most numerous species but the others all occur, including Ring Ouzel which should be looked for on the grassy slopes as well as among the berries. October and November may also produce Water Rail and Woodcock in the cover round Mire Loch. St Abb’s Head was purchased in 1980 by the National Trust for Scotland who administer it as a wildlife reserve jointly with the Scottish Wildlife Trust. The Ranger/Naturalist can be contacted at Ranger’s Cottage, Northfield, St Abbs (Tele- 1982 BIRDWATCHING AT ST ABBS 85 phone Coldingham 443). Access on foot is free and unrestricted but there is parking (for 12 vehicles) only at the Lighthouse car-park. In the summer months there is a charge of £1 per vehicle; this charge does not apply to disabled or elderly per- sons or members of the NTS or SWT. Visitors should avoid straying onto adjoining private farm land. S.R. D. da Prato, 38 Carlaverock Grove, Tranent, East Lothian. Short Notes Response of Storm Petrels to cails of other species Tape luring has recently proved to be successful as a method of studying Storm Petrels, particularly away from known colonies. However, attempts at luring other Procellariiformes on the Firths of Clyde and Forth have, to date, proved futile using this method. On two occasions when endless loop lures of other petrels were played, Storm Petrels were attracted from the sea and mistnetted. On Ailsa Craig (Ayrshire) on Ist July 1980 a Storm Petrel was netted while the call of Wilson’s Petrel was being played (optimistically) for a short spell. Storm Petrels may breed, or attempt to breed, on Ailsa in small numbers and could have been active over land whether or not a lure was playing. Many Storm Petrels were caught that night using the con- ventional BTO Storm Petrel tape lure. On 29th August 1981 at Portencross, on the north Ayrshire coast, four Storm Pet- rels were caught during a two hour period. As numbers tend to dwindle at this site in late August only two were caught during one and a half hours of luring but a further half hour of Leach’s Petrel call playing also netted two Storm Petrels, 25 minutes apart. No Leach’s Petrels were caught or even seen. The Portencross site is totally uninfluenced by proximity -o a known breeding colony. The calls of the three petrels are very distinct and the at- traction of Storm Petrels to the calls of Wilson’s and Leach’s Petrels is puzzling. On both occasions only one 10m long mist net was used in conjunction with the amplified calls. Prior to being caught by conventional luring, it has been possible on several occasions to hear the Storm Petrel emit a high pitched kreek call as it passed over and around the lure. This contact note is not part of the lure call, which is the churr of breeding birds. Clark & Wilkins (SB 11: 52-53) accidentally caught a wandering Storm Petrel on the Forth with a malfunctioning recorder producing a call resembling a rusty hinge. How close this was to the genuine call is unknown but a faulty connec- 86 SHORT NOTES 12(3) tion on the luring equipment at the Portencross site has sim- ilarly caught a Storm Petrel before the tape was properly adjusted. lt is perhaps possible that the Storm Petrel associates the calls of other petrels with feeding or breeding sites and is thus attracted. Alternatively, the tape recorder may emit frequen- cies to which the Storm Petrel’s hearing may be attuned and which, for some reason, it finds irresistible. 1f one can anthro- pomorphize, it may be curiosity that attracts the birds in such cases and not the specific call. It is worth noting that the calls of Manx and Sooty Shearwaters have, as yet, failed to attract Storm Petrels, as well as the intended species. Further experiments will be conducted to establish just what does lure Storm Petrels so easily to the shore. I am grateful to A. Beck, I. P. Gibson and D. McEwen for their help, patience and enthusiasm during the summer nights. B. ZONFRILLO A new coiony of Leach’s Peirels In August 1980 a Leach’s Petrel was found occupying a burrow on the RSPB reserve of Gruney, Ramna Stacks (Shetland) (Seabird Report 6: 93). In 1981 a party from the Leicester Polytechnic expedition revisited the island for two consecutive nights 9-11th July in an attempt to con- firm breeding. At dusk mistnets (total c.100m) were erected with tape recorders playing endless cassettes of the Leach’s Petrel chatter call. On the first night thin cloud partly covered the light northern sky and by midnight Leach’s Petrels were flitting around rock outcrops at the south end of the island and occasionally calling in flight. Seven were caught and ringed, and vocal responses were evoked from five burrows which were marked for closer examination in the morning. The burrows were in peaty turf at the base of rocky out- crops, the entrances usually covered by grass and the tunnels going in parallel to the ground surface, similar to the one de- scribed on Foula (SB 8: 321-3). The nesting chambers of three of the burrows were beyond reach, but the other two hit bedrock and each contained an adult Leach’s Petrel in- cubating a single egg. Both birds were removed for ringing: one was found to have been ringed at a mistnet during the night. They were placed back in the burrow where they con- tinued incubating. On the second night the cloud had dispersed, resulting in a much lighter night and fewer petrels appearing. However, the mistnets had been more effectively sited at tan- gents to the rock outcrops and a further six were caught— 1982 SHORT NOTES 87 none of them retraps from the previous night. An additional two occupied burrows were located, too deep to examine. It is highly unlikely that all occupied burrows were found; those that were found on the second night had certainly been passed over before, suggesting that an occupant of a burrow may not necessarily always respond to a tape recording. The absence of retraps in the second night’s catch, whilst provid- ing no basis for a recapture analysis, certainly does not sug- gest that the 13 birds ringed represent anything other than a small proportion of the birds visiting the island. In view of the small size (c.7.0 ha) of the island and the distribution of likely nesting sites, an estimate of 20-50 pairs seems reason- able. The only other known site for breeding Leach’s Petrels in Shetland is on Foula where a single burrow with egg was found in 1974 (SB 8: 321-3) and a few more burrows have been found in subsequent years (A. R. Mainwood pers. comm.). Only four other colonies are known in the British Isles, all in Scotland. Leach’s Petrels appear to favour preci- pitous turf-covered islands exposed directly to the Atlantic: there are surprisingly few that meet these specifications in Shetland. Gloup Holm would seem worthy of investigation. Financial support for this expedition was gratefully re- ceived from BP, BTO, NCC, RSPB, the Seabird Group, SOTEAG, and WWF. J. A. FOWLER, C. J. BUTLER Elusive Chiffchaffs In spring 1981 we undertook a Common Birds Census of the newly established Scottish Wildlife Trust woodland reserve in Roslin Glen (Midlothian). It is a mature mixed deciduous woodland comprised primarily of oak, ash, elm and beech. In 31 visits between 28th March and 30th June both of us reg- ularly walked the road which crosses the reserve, plotting bird song on both sides. At no time was Chiffchaff suspected. No visit was made in the early morning, however. On Ist June AWB was shown a Chiffchaff’s nest (nest A) containing 4 eggs (found by two English visitors by ‘cold-searching’). On llth June we were both shown a second nest (nest B) con- taining 6 eggs some 90m from nest A, which now also had 6 eggs. Both nests were less than 10m from the road. Meiklejohn (1952, Scot. Nat. 64: 114-6) suggested that in Scotland Chiffchaffs require a thick cover of rhododendron with some tall adjacent trees to provide song posts. Young planted conifers with taller trees give a similar habitat and 88 SHORT NOTES 12(3) are often used in the Lothians. The habitat frequented in Ros- lin Glen is open mature oakwood with a ground cover of rerns and with thick honeysuckle Lonicera around many of the trees providing the only shrubbery. This part of the Glen is very sheltered and provides conditions reminiscent of the South of England. Neither of us heard any song but it seems likely that with two adjacent territorial males there would be an initial period of intense song as the territories were established. On llth June, however, it was noticeable that after the sitting bird was flushed from nest A there were two very excited adults scolding nearby whereas at nest B only one bird was ever seen during three visits. It seems possible, therefore, that oniy three birds were involved in the two nests and that the male was bigamous. It should also be noted, however, that nest B was built within 30m of a Sparrowhawk nest (which was successful) and it may be that a second male had fallen victim to one of the hawks. Dr L. L. J. Vick (pers. comm.) and da Prato (SB 11: 108-112) have found that Lesser Whitethroats in the Lothians may sing only for a very short period when they arrive in spring and, indeed, may nest in a well-watched area with no song being heard at all. This may well have applied at Roslin Glen and it seems probable that a warbler which is paired and has no necessity to defend its territory against neighbours will have no need to advertise by song. This possibility has pre- viously been suggested for Chifichaffs in Kaster Koss (Lees, 1952, Scot. Nat. 64: 171). One wonders how many are over- looked. A. W. BROWN, R. W. J. SMITH S. R. D. da Prato comments: The authors are quite correct in saying that male warblers tend to sing less once mated, especially when the species occurs at low densities. How- ever this is subject to variation between species and between individuals. I do not think Chiffchaffs are quite as elusive as Lesser Whitethroats, and stress that early morning is a better time than evening to census most species of warbler. The suggestion of bigamy is interesting since it has been found in Willow Warblers and Whitethroats in southeast Scotland (BB 1982 in press). It is almost certainly under- recorded and, I suspect, sometimes misinterpreted as double brooding when the second female lays later than the first. Anyone prepared to invest some time in colour ringing and then watching small passerines could usefully extend our knowledge in this area. 1982 SHORT NOTES 89 Merlin apparently preying on Common Frog On 10th June 1981 I visited the nest of a Merlin in Kincar- dineshire. Prey remains found in the nesting area were collec- ted and among them were those of a Common Frog. The re- mains were found on top of a large (c.1.5m high, 1m long, 1m wide) “plucking”? boulder c.80m from the nest. This would appear to be very unusual for a Merlin as no Amphibians have been recorded in various food studies in the past (see Cramp et al. 1980, The Birds of the Western Palearctic Vol II, Watson 1979 Bird Study 26: 253-8, Hodson 1978, Canadian Field-Naturalist 92: 76-77). The area surrounding and below the boulder was wet and marshy and Frogs are common locally in this habitat. I would like to thank Alistair Duncan for confirming the identification of the remains. GRAHAM W. REBECCA Persistent predators In early summer 1981, on a grouse moor at Kerloch in Kin- cardineshire, I saw two instances where kills were made due to persistence by predators. On 21 May I heard a hen Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus scoticus giving predator warning calls and nearby saw a Crow Corvus corone ‘hovering’ about 5m above a stretch of 2-year-old heather. The crow suddenly swooped at something on the ground but was deflected by the hen grouse which flew at the Crow knocking it to one side. The Crow resumed its ‘hovering’ position and repeated the attack about 2 minutes later. Meanwhile the cock Red Grouse either stood on a nearby ‘look-out’ giving predator warning calls, or made low flights passing close to the crow but with- out making contact. This continued for about 10 minutes, with the attacks from the hen grouse becoming weaker each time, until eventually the Crow picked up the object—a tiny grouse chick—in its claws and carried it to a nest }km away. The Crow returned 10 minutes later and continued to wear down the hen grouse until a second chick was caught. A total of five chicks were taken one by one in 75 minutes. When I inspected the area I found no chicks or parents but found droppings from 1-3-day-old chicks. The second instance occurred the following day and invol- ved a brood of 4-day-old Golden Plovers Pluvialis apricaria which I watched feeding on a stretch of 1-year-old heather and grass. The parents suddenly began flying about calling noisily and the chicks immediately scattered and hid. The cause was a male Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus which had appeared without warning and landed where the brood had 90 SHORT NOTES 12(3) been feeding. He hopped about in zig-zag fashion, frequently stopping and tilting his head to look at the ground, whilst continually being mobbed by the parents. After 10 minutes he found one of the chicks, killed and then ate it. It was then that I intervened; having ringed the chicks in the nest and already seen the brood reduced to two chicks, I could not sit and watch the last surviving chick being hunted down. Red Grouse and Golden Plover chicks crouch and rely on their cryptic plumage to avoid detection by avian predators but the Crow had found a brood in the open with the chicks at a vulnerable age and by repeated attacks had overcome the resistance of the parents. Sparrowhawks usually catch their prey by surprising it on the ground or in flight, and although they may follow on foot if the prey goes to ground it is un- usual to find one methodically quartering the ground in search of prey. The defence of the broods was so ineffectual against the persistence of these predators it suggests the described events rarely occur. RAYMOND PARR Exceptional proximity of two pairs of nesting Merlins Traditionally, one pair of Merlins has nested annually on Fetlar, Shetland, but there were two pairs in 1978-79, three pairs in 1980 and two pairs again in 1981. Suitable moorland is largely confined to the southwestern part of the island, and it is in that area that the Merlins select their nesting terri- tories. During 1978-80 there was always at least one km between nests, but in 1981 this was not so. The two nests were a mere 160m apart on a very steep heather-clad hillside, both at an altitude of 40m. The southern nest had a completed clutch of four eggs on 28th May, all of which had hatched by 27th June, and all four young fledged successfully. The northern nest had a completed clutch of two eggs on Ist June, one of which was newly- hatched but dead on 27th June, the second egg not hatching despite further incubation. When seen well, both the males and both the females were individually recognisable. From my limited observations it seemed that the southern pair always left or approached their nest area from the south and the northern pair from the north, and on no occasion did I observe any interaction between the two pairs. The previous closest nesting by two pairs of Merlins is 0.5 km (Cramp & Simmons, 1980, The Birds of the Western Palearctic). teal J. N. DYMOND 1982 REVIEWS 91 Reviews Estuary Birds of Britain and Ireland by A. J. Prater; Poyser, Calton, 1981; 440 pages; 16 plain photo plates; many drawings, diagrams & maps; 24 x 16 cm; £14. Estuary Birds describes the results of the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry (BOEE) organized by the BTO, RSPB and Wildfowl Trust, which ran from August 1969 to May 1975. To many birdwatchers the book will provide a useful introduction and guide to the biology and distribution of our shore waders and wildfowl. To those who took part it is a long awaited report on the outcome of many, often windswept, days spent counting birds on our estuaries. The book begins with two chapters by Raymond O’Connor on ‘The nature of an estuary’ and ‘Patterns of shorebird feeding’. Tony Prater has authored the bulk of the book, which continues the introductory section with a western European view of shorebird migration and dis- tribution and a wide ranging summary of the threats to estuaries in Britain. Then comes the core of the book with seven regional accounts and a chapter on the Republic of Ireland by C. Hutchinson. This is fol- lowed by accounts of the principal estuarine species. An appendix lists the ‘Highest average monthly counts of main species for each estuary’ and finally the criteria for international and national importance for species covered by the survey. On first impression this is a good looking book. The layout is clear and the monotone illustrations by John Busby have an original feel for shorebirds and their habitats. I found his pairs and larger assemblages of species particularly appealing. The text diagrams are, however, sometimes crudely drawn and incompletely annotated. (Fig. 3:3 showing ranges of wildfowl in western Europe is one of the worst but the squint symbols on many distribution maps also irritated me.) The photographs range from the highly apposite (aerial views of habitats) to the super- fluous (the Hilbre Knot, again!). For the most part the introductory chapters are sound and give a good introduction to the way estuaries work, how birds exploit them and how man (and natural factors) may affect them. Reading about bird counts is often heavy going and I suspect most readers will merely dip in to the remaining chapters. We have the addi- tional problem (perhaps inevitable) of overworked conservation termin- ology (‘major’, ‘significant’, ‘international’, etc) recurring line after line and this becomes tedious. The regional chapters deal with each estuary in turn (Scotland is given 27 pages). The main shorebird populations are listed in tables, and maps are given for the larger estuaries and other areas showing wader roost sites and wildfowl concentrations. This works well, although survey contributors are likely to feel their results have been oversimplified. The species accounts range from 4-5 pages on each of the commoner waders, a bit less on the ducks and geese down to short paragraphs on gulls and terns. It is in examining these two main sections in detail that some worries about the book emerge. Taking just two species on an estuary I know, T checked the text and tables. For Redshank on the Forth a figure of 2.600 is given both in the appendix and in the survey of Scottish estuaries. This is said to comprise 2.4% of the western European population. and yet using the criterion in appendix 2 (1%=1,250) this should be 2.1%. Worse still, the species account gives 3,759 instead of 2,600 for the same Forth population of Redshank and is said to represent 3% of the western 92 REVIEWS 12(3) European population. The analysis for Shelduck on the Forth has evi- dently gone astray in a rather different way. The population figures un- doubtedly include those seasons when the estuary was covered incom- pletely and hence give a misleadingly low overall population. This is no place for a detailed discussion of the many and various ways of handling count data; nevertheless what ever is done needs to be explained precisely, applied uniformly and presented clearly (this goes for the wader index calculations too). Further, the evident inaccuracy of these figures suggests a weakness if this book is to be used for its purported conservation purpose. The annual summaries, prepared by the organizers at the BTO and sent to all contributors, were, and will probably remain, the most useful for making comparisons of populations between estuaries. I say this partly because there has been no attempt to achieve an overall ranking of estuaries in this book, either in terms of total number of birds or their densities. Clearly there are some interesting trends (southern England, for example, has more than twice the wader density of eastern Scotland in January) and one hopes that this unique store of data will be examined in more detail. There are far too many minor errors to specify individually, but generally the tables and figures come off worst. The subject index is a patchy effort, with species entries referring to the main species accounts alone. Wader enthusiasts will, I expect, find the documentation of their efforts less than ideal but will be strongly tempted to buy. If they do, they will certainly get the most comprehensive summary of shorebird distri- bution yet published for Britain. One final point. Why is it that space can be found for prolific (and sometimes unnecessary) maps and the like and yet not for a page or two of acknowledgments for all those individ- uals who took part in the survey ? It is surely the least that can be done for all the time (and petrol money !) they have devoted to this exciting, indeed monumental, project. D. M. BRYANT The Cuckoo by Ian Wyllie; Batsford, London, 1981; 176 pages; 15 colour, 35 plain photos; 10 diagrams & maps; 24 x 16 cm; £8.95. The author points out that since the pioneering work of Edgar Chance in the 1920s the Cuckoo in Britain has not been studied extensively though there is an abundance of anecdotal material. Wyllie’s own in- volvement started when he assisted in making a TV film of Reed Warbler Cuckoos. Two seasons filming were followed by six of fieldwork. It was hoped to answer a variety of questions on Cuckoo behaviour and ecology by colour marking the local population but due to catching difficulties and low return rates many questions remain unanswered. Presenting his results in book form allows the author both to speculate and to incor- porate material from other studies, many from abroad. He is careful to separate observed fact from theory and has clearly benefited from con- sultation with his colleagues at ITE Monks Wood and other specialists. The book has three components: the author’s own fieldwork; a sum- mary of the literature, not just on the European Cuckoo but the rest of the family and other brood parasites; and a discussion of the origins and function of Cuckoo behaviour. Chapter 6 on the social system, where the author reports on observations of wing tagged and radio-carrying individuals, is the most valuable although weakened by small sample sizes. However, the book as a whole gives the nonspecialist reader a good summary of what is known about Cuckoos and possible reasons for their behaviour. It is also extremely well illustrated. The photographs include sequences showing females visiting nests, removing eggs and leaving their own, and the progress of young Cuckoos from egg to fled- 1982 REVIEWS 93 ging. Considering the number of plates the book is not overpriced by current standards and is recommended. S.R. D. DA PRATO Instinctive Navigation of Birds by E. C. Gerrard. The Scottish Research Group, Pabay, Broadford, Skye, 1981; 185 pages; 105 diagrams & maps; 21 x 15 cm; £4.50 (available only from publisher; post free). A controversial book (intentionally so) published by the newly formed Scottish Research Group. According to the accompanying blurb, this hopes to assist ‘original thinkers lacking formal qualifications’ to have their work recognized when rejected by established journals. The author sets out to produce a new hypothesis on avian navi- gation, and does so by examining previous research—the results of which are often quoted as being established facts. Most of these he denounces and calls Dr A. C. Perdeck’s widely known work on Starling navigation some 20 years ago a gigantic hoax. The author claims—perhaps rightly— that this and hypotheses formulated by Kramer and the Sauers on celes- tial navigation emerged from badly organized investigations. A further claim that scientists have conspired to stifle criticism and alternative explanations of their work is rather disquieting, to say the least. He favours a much simpler hypothesis which states that migrants navigate phototactically, a method used by many insects and other organisms. Their heading is affected by such inherently attractive things as heavenly bodies, cloud patterns and landmarks. He considers there is little basis for any more complex explanation. His hypothesis fits quite well with some of the known facts about migration, but a few of the meteorological concepts mentioned in the book are rather dubious. Statements that migrants are influenced by prevailing winds are vague. Where the steadiness factor of these is low (in mid and high latitude depression tracks) much of the migration takes place on the relatively few occasions of suitable (but not prevailing) winds. Furthermore, a bird attracted by a cloud formation does not ‘al- most certainly’ end up by flying down-wind! I did not find the book very readable. There are some intriguing ideas which might appeal to ornithologists with an interest in navigation, but the general reader might find it rather heavy going. NORMAN ELKINS Notices The Winter Atlas in Scotland 1981-82 The response to the Winter Atlas in Scotland, and the rest of Britain and Ireland, has been very encour- aging, and the proportion of squares covered during the first winter was higher than initially expected. This is not to say that the work is over. More fieldwork is required, particularly in the more remote parts, and in such areas every bird you see is a useful record. You can contri- bute a lot of information in a relatively short time, and I hope that some people will be able to spend a few days during next winter helping the local observers in these more difficult parts. The 1981-82 winter was, to say the least, unusual. This certainly pro- duced interesting results and some species appeared to move around a fair amount. Some observers in Scotland have mentioned a dearth of birds (and blamed the cold weather for it!), but I have quite a lot of VISIT cards with more than 50 species recorded and some with over 70. At the other extreme, though, I also have some with only one (usually Red Grouse, Ptarmigan or Golden Eagle!), and a few with none at all. One observer went for nearly eight hours without seeing a single bird! (We do want aJl such cards as long as the VISIT was of more than one hour). 94 NOTICES 12(3) Thank you very much indeed, all who took part last winter. I hope that those who did not will do so in the next two seasons. Full details will be available in September from local organisers (list in Scottish Birds vol. 11, p 281), or direct from me at the B.T.O. You can find out a lot about your local area even if you cannot travel to a more remote part. PETER LACK Wing-tagged Jackdaws Jackdaws have been wing-tagged as part of a behavioural study in S.E. Scotland. The study population is centred near West Linton in the Borders Region (55°47’N, 3°27’W) and reports of sightings of these birds would be valuable between now and 1984. For a map on which to record sightings, please contact Paul Green, Zoology Department, The University, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, tel. 031 667 1081 ext. 3211. British Birds The reduced subscription is again being offered to SOC members. From 1 August 1982 the normal subscription is £20 but by completing the enclosed form you need only pay £15 for the year’s sub- scription. The form should be sent to Mrs E. Sharrock, Circulation Manager, British Birds, Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, Bedfordshire MK44 3NJ. North Sea Bird Club: Report for 1979 and 1980. £1 from S. M. D. Alexander, Chevron Petroleum (UK) Ltd, Ninian House, Crawpeel Rd, Altens, Aber- deen, AB1 4LG. The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club ANNUAL CONFERENCE and ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Whatever our particular interest, we all want to find birds. One impor- tant tactor in determining where we can find them is the availability of suitable food. That, basically, is the theme of this year’s conierence. Our lecturers have an especial knowledge of this topic and they have some surprising and fascinating things to say. Not only this, but they are all excellent and entertaining speakers. The 35th annual conference and 46th annual general meeting of the club will be held in the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, East Lothian, dur- ing the weekend 5-7 November 1982. The conference programme and booking form, and the agenda for the AGM, are enclosed with this number of the journal. Members are reminded that bookings for the conference and at the Marine Hotel can only be accepted on the booking form; the hotel management have been instructed not to accept any booking except through the club secretary. ENDOWMENT FUND The SOC Endowment Fund was established for the advancement of ornithology. In recent years it has received generous donations and legacies which have been of considerable help to an increasing number of members who apply for a grant. The Fund is administered by the council of the club which is empowered to make grants from the accum- ulated income; in 1982 over £1750 was awarded to 14 applicants. Applications for a grant must be made on a form available from the club secretary and submitted to him by 31 December. Applications re- ceived after that date will not be considered for the financial year to 30 June following. Intending applicants are advised to note carefully this 1982 SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 95 closing date. Applications, with recommendations by the research com- mittee to which they are submitted, are considered by council at its meeting in March. BRANCH SECRETARIES Please note the appointment of two new branch secretaries : Aberdeen D. J. Bain, 24 Seafield Gardens, Aberdeen ABl1 7YB (0224 324 334) Stirling D. Thorogood, 4 Archers Avenue, Stirling FK7 7RJ (0786 815 797) WINTER EXCURSIONS AYR BRANCH Saturday 23 October 1982 GLENBUCK, MUIRKIRK. Leader, Don Smith. Meet Wellington Square, Ayr 1 pm or Glenbuck Loch 2 pm. Sunday 28 November LOCH KEN. Leaders, Ray Hawley and Jean Burton. Meet Wellington Square, Ayr 9.30 am or New Galloway goli course 11 am (lunch). Saturday 29 January 1983 PRESTWICK to AYR. Leader, Alun Williams. Meet Wellington Square, Ayr 1 pm or Prestwick Bathing Lake 1.20 pm. Sunday 27 February LOCH RYAN. Leader, Bruce Forrester. Meet Wel- lington Square, Ayr 9.30 am (lunch). Saturday 26 March DIPPLE. Leader, Eleanor Hissett. Meet Wellington Square, Ayr 1 p.m. DUNDEE BRANCH All excursions depart Crichton Street, Dundee at 10 am by private car (bring lunch and tea). Sunday 17 October 1982 EDEN ESTUARY and CAMERON LOCH. Leader, Mrs J. Grant. Sunday 21 November LINTRATHEN and BACKWATER. Leader, B. Pounder. Sunday 12 December MONIKIE and BALMOSSIE. Leader, R. Corbett. Sunday 9 January 1983 KINSHALDIE. Leader, D. B. Thomson. Sunday 6 February Tay Estuary Count. Leader, B. M. Lynch. Sunday 6 March SCONE DEN and MEIKLEOUR. Leader, E. D. Cameron. Sunday 17 April DUNNING. Leader, D. Doig. GEORGE WATERSTON MEMORIAL FUND In the last journal members were advised that the club had given hides to the RSPB and SWT from donations received by this fund. It was hoped to give more details here but these are not yet available. They will be given as soon as possible. The total in the fund, before paying for the hides, is now over £4500. This has been reached by many donations, both large and small, but Council would like to pay particular thanks to Mr Chris Mylne for showing a series of films connected with George Waterston at several branches last winter, which raised just over £1000 for the fund. Council also records its gratitude to all those who were responsible for organis- ing the film shows, without whom Chris Mylne’s fund raising efforts would have been impossible. The sums raised were Aberdeen £213; Dundee £230; Edinburgh £160; Glasgow £136 and a further £184 given most generously by the Glasgow Art Galleries and Museums Association with which their two evenings were shared; New Galloway £47; St Andrews £150 and Wigtown £34, 96 SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(3) making a total of £1154. Expenses, including those incurred locally, came to £154 (£153.65) giving a net total of £1000.35. This represents a truly magnificent effort by Chris Mylne and all those who made the local arrangements. RAFFLE TICKETS Income from the sale of raffle tickets in recent years has been excel- lent, and in the past five the average was £575, with a net £677 last year. Some members and branches do find the selling of tickets irksome, and so Council agreed that this year a book should be sent with the autumn journal for the convenience of members. Tickets will still be available at the September and October branch meetings, and members who wish to buy more than one book can either buy them there or send one extra cash to the club secretary who will return the necessary coun- terfoils. Please remember that payment and ticket stubs must be sent to the club secretary as soon as possible—certainly no later than 30 October— or brought to the conference. An acknowledgment for payment sent by post will only be made if an sae is enclosed. Do please support the raffle generously. INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR BIRD PRESERVATION The SOC is one of the eleven constituent societies of the British Sec- tion of the ICBP on which it is represented by two members. Copies of the ICBP Newsletter and other publications are held in the Waterston Library in Edinburgh. SOC members who wish to support the work of the ICBP may do so by paying an annual subscription of £18 to become Associate Members and receive the Newsletter and Annual Report. By paying £50 annually they can become Supporting Members and receive in addition, on request, one free copy of ICBP Technical Publications per year and are invited to attend international meetings as observers. Benefactors who pay £250 p.a. receive automatically a free copy of every ICBP publication and are invited to international meetings. Application forms are available from the Club Secretary in Edinburgh. Branch News Stirling The excursion to Argyll organised by the Stirling Branch was based as usual at Clachandubh, near Ford, from 5 to 7 March. Eleven members and friends trickled in during the Friday afternoon and evening, though the fourth arrival announced himself as the local plumber; as the first tenants of the cottage since the big freeze we had the privilege of encountering the inevitable burst pipe. Meanwhile, at the other end of the room Alistair and Mairi Simpson were engaged in Herculean and ultimately successful labours coaxing fire from damp logs, a Sunday colour supplement and a milk carton. After years of boasting of the fine weather laid on for these weekends we have to admit that the Saturday was wet and cold. However, a Ring- necked Duck ten minutes from the cottage soon raised the spirits, and north Kintyre and the coastal waters provided some excellent car-borne birding. Following the fierce winter it was good to find such vulnerable species as Stonechats surviving in coastal scrub. By late afternoon the sun returned, tempting out a cock Hen Harrier and several Short-eared Owls. In the evening the Kilmartin Hotel provided a warm refuge and a finely laden table. Sunday restored our faith in west coast weather, and varied excursions raised the bird species count to very respectable proportions before members dispersed following a picnic lunch alongside Loch Craignish. Notices to Contributors Papers, longer articles and short notes 1. The high cost of production and distribution means that it is of the utmost importance that contributions are concise, interesting and read- able to justify their publication. Official reports originally prepared for other bodies usually need to be completely redrafted. Authors of papers are advised to submit a draft to an expert referee before offering it to the editor. Material is considered on the understanding that it is not being offered elsewhere. 2. Two copies should be sent, typed on one side only with double spacing and wide margins. Authors are urged to consult recent issues of Scottish Birds for style of presentation, in particular of headings, tables and references. Headings should not be in capitals nor underlined. Tables and figures must be designed to fit the page. Tables should be used sparingly and be self explanatory, and, like figure captions, typed on a separate sheet. 3. Short notes, if not typed, must be clearly written and well spaced. 4. English names of species (but not group names) of birds, other animals and plants, except domestic forms, have initial capitals for each word, except after a hyphen. English names and sequence of birds follow Voous (1973-7) ‘List of recent Holarctic bird species’ (Ibis 115: 612-638; 119: 223-250, 376-406). Scientific names are generally unnecessary for species in this list but they are required (underlined, with no brackets) for subspecies, species not in the list, and for other animals and plants, except domestic forms, where these receive significant mention. 5. Proofs are sent to all contributors and these should be returned without delay. Authors of papers and longer articles are entitled to 25 free copies of the journal but these must be requested when returning proofs. Extra copies can be supplied at cost. 6. Illustrations of any kind are welcomed, whether alone or to illus- trate an article. Drawings and figures should be up to twice the size they will finally appear, in Indian ink, neatly lettered, on good quality paper separate from the text. Photographs, either glossy prints or colour trans- parencies, should be sharp and clear with good contrast. Scottish Bird Report 1. Records should be sent to the appropriate local recorders, a list of whom is published regularly, but in cases of difficulty they can be for- warded by the editor. 2. These records should be on one side of the sheet only, well spaced and in species order, following the Voous sequence (see 4. above). The only exception is that Aberdeenshire and north Kincardineshire records should be in place and date order. Observers should consult previous reports for the sort of information required. To avoid duplication of records by the recorders, names of other observers present should be given where appropriate. 3. Notes for the year should be sent promptly, generally in early Jan- uary, but some recorders prefer more frequent records and regular con- tributors are asked to consult local recorders about this. Reports of occa- sional visits to areas outwith the observer’s regular territory, such as holiday lists, should usually be sent to recorders as soon as possible. Records of rarities, including species only locally rare, should be sent to recorders without delay. 4. The editor will be glad to receive, preferably via the local recorders, records of special interest for publication in Current Notes. Please send them at the end of March, June, September and December for publication in the issues following. 5. To save recorders’ (often considerable) time and expense, corres- pondents should enclose a stamped addressed envelope or indicate that no acknowledgment is required. LOCAL RECORDERS Shetland (except Fair Isle) R. J. Tulloch, Lussetter House, Mid Yell, Shetland. Fair Isle N. J. Riddiford, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland. Orkney C. J. Booth, ‘“‘Ronas’’, 34 High Street, Kirkwall, Orkney. Outer Hebrides, St Kilda W. A. J. Cunningham, Aros, 10 Barony Square, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, PA87 2TQ. Caithness Mrs P. M. Collett, Sandyquoy, East Gills, Scrabster, Caithness, KW14 7UH. Sutherland Dr I. D. Pennie, 5 Badcall, Scourie, Sutherland, 1V27 4TH. Ross-shire (except Black Isle), Inverness-shire (mainland over 18 miles from Inverness) R. H. Dennis, Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness, IV] 1XD. Inverness-shire (within 18 miles of Inverness) and Black Isle, Ross-shire M. I. Harvey, Clachbhan, Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire. Nairnshire, Morayshire, Banffshire N. Elkins, 10 Oakbank Place, Elgin, Morayshire, IV30 2LZ. South Kincardineshire, Angus N. K. Atkinson, 5 Tolmount Crescent, Montrose, Angus. Aberdeen, North Kincardineshire Dr M. V. Bell, Institute of Marine Biochemistry, St Fittick’s Road. Aberdeen. Perthshire E. D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perth- shire, PH2 6RZ. Isle of May B. Zonfrillo, 28 Bredie Road, Balornock East, Glasgow, G21 3SB. Fife (except Forth Islands), Kinross-shire I. G. Cumming, 11 Canongate, St Andrews, Fife. Clackmannanshire, East Stirlingshire Dr C. J. Henty, 3 The Broich, Alva, Clackmannansbire. West Lothian, Forth Islands (except May), Midlothian A. W. & L. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 ONB. Eee Lothian K. S. Macgregor, 16 Merchiston Avenue, Edinburgh, EH10 4NY. Berwickshire. Peebiesshire, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire R. D. Murray, 143 Eskhill, Penicuik, Midlothian. Argyllshire, Inner Hebrides M. J. P. Gregory, Duiletter, Kilmory Road, Lochgilphead, Argyllshire, PA31 8NL. Dunbartonshire, West Stirlingshire, Renfrewshire I. P. Gibson, Arcadia, The Glen, Howood, Renfrewshire. Lanarkshire Dr E. S. Alexander, 3 Lilac Hill, Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Ayrshire, Arran, Bute R. H. Hogg, Kirklea, 11 Kirkmichael Road, Cross- hill, Maybole, Ayrshire, KA19 7JR. Dumfriesshire Dr E. Fellowes, West Isle, Islesteps, Dumfries, DG2 8ES. Kirkcudbrightshire, Wigtownshire A. D. Watson, Barone, 54 Main Street, Dalry, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, DG8 3UW. WILDFOWL COUNTS IN SCOTLAND For more than 20 years the task of organising the winter Wildfowl Counts in Scotland was undertaken by a succession of dedicated SOC members; first by Miss Rintoul and Miss Baxter, then by Miss Betty Garden and finally by Miss Valerie Thom. When Miss Thom resigned in 1971, no overall Scottish Organiser could be found to continue the work centrally, and so a number of Regional Organisers were appointed who deal direct with the Wildfowl Trust in Slimbridge. The Club agreed to be responsible for appointing Regional Organisers when necessary in future, and a copy of the counts for all parts of Scotland is maintained in the Club’s Reference Library in Edinburgh. A list of the Regional Organisers is given below, and anyone who is interested in helping with the counts is asked to write to their nearest Organiser. If there is none please contact Slimbridge. Shetland D. P. P. Eva, 6 Westerloch Brae, Lerwick. Orkney P. Reynolds, Berrybank, Evie, Orkney. Wester Ross and Skye A. Currie, Glaiseilean, Broadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AQ. Outer Hebrides N. Buxton, 42 Aird, Tong, Isle of Lewis, Western Isles. Caithness S. Laybourne, Old Schoolhouse, Harpsdale, Halkirk, Caithness, KW12 6UN. Inverness-shire, Easter Ross, Sutherland (East) C. G. Headlam, Dallachie, Fearn, Ross-shire 1V20 1TN Banffshire, Morayshire, N Natmnehire J. Edelsten, 14 South High Street, Portsoy, Banffshire, AB4 2NT. Aberdeenshire, Kincardineshire A. Duncan, 12 Cairncry Avenue, Aber- deen, AB2 5DS. Angus B. Pounder, 64 Forfar Road, Dundee, Angus. Perthshire East) E. D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perth, UH2 6R: Argylishire and a Hebrides (South) S. Newton, Kindrochid, Gruinart, Bridgend, Isle of Islay, Argyll, PA44 7PP. Fife, Kinross-shire Mrs J. A. R. Grant, Brackmont, Crail, Fife. Central Region D. Thorogood, 4 Archers Avenue, Stirling. Bute J. B. Simpson, Estate Office, Rothesay, Bute. Lothians Miss J. Wilcox, 18 Howdenhall Gardens, Edinburgh, EH16 6UN. Ayrshire A. G. Stewart, 31 St Andrews Avenue, Prestwick, Ayrshire, KA9 2DY. Borders A. Bramhall, 28 Blakehope Court, Tweedbank, Galashiels, Sel- kirkshire, TD1 3RB. Dumfriesshire, Kirkcudbright, Wigtownshire P. Shimmings, 1 Jeanville, Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire, DG11 1PA. THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB MPHE Scottish Ornithologists’ Club was formed in 1936 and membership is open to all interested in Scottish Ornithology. Meetings are held during the winter months in Aberdeen, Ayr, the Borders, Dumfries, Dun- dee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, New Galloway, St Andrews, Stirling, Thurso and the Wigtown District at which lectures by prominent ornith- ologists are given and films exhibited. Expeditions are organised in the summer to places of ornithological interest. The aims of the Club are to (a) encourage the study of Scottish ornith- ology and to promote an interest in wild birds; (b) co-ordinate the activi- ties of Scottish ornithologists; (c) encourage ornithological work in Scotland; (d) encourage conservation of Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) hold meetings for discussion and to arrange ornithological field meetings, and (f) appoint local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology, including Scottish Birds, the club journal. There are no entry fees for Membership. The Annual subscription is £7.50, or £3 in the case of Members under twenty one years of age or Students under 25 who satisfy the Council of their status as such at the time their subscription falls due. The Life subscription is £150. Family Membership is available to married couples and their nominated children under 18 at an Annual subscription of £11, or a Life subscrip- tion of £225. Scottish Birds is issued free to Members but Family Mem- bers will receive one copy between them. Subscriptions are payable on ist October annuality. Reduced rates for pensioners. Scottish Birds, which is published quarterly, includes papers, articles and short notes on all aspects of ornithology in Scotland. The club also publishes the annual Scottish Bird Report. Application for Membership form, copy of the Club Constitution, and other literature are obtainable from the Club Secretary, Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe, Scottish Centre for Ornithology and Bird Protection, 21 Regent Terace, Edinburgh, EH7 5 BT (tel. 031-556 6042). ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Orkney Isiands ROUSAY Enjoy good food and comfortable accommodation at the licensed TAVERSOE HOTEL the ideal centre for ornithologists. Within easy walking distance, Rousay offers a range of habitat Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- unique to a small island. Moorland, cliffs, lochs and sea shore attract over 300 species including many birds of prey. Brochure from: IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, ORKNEY Tel. 085682 325 PBBB°BPBRBRBPB°PBRBPBBPBPLOPOPRPPRLOPIE. ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure, Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Tobermory (0688) 24 | | TEWAY To AWC OF INTEREST OUR 1983 ORNITHOLOGICAL BROCHURE IS NOW January California February Malaysia March Israel April Gib/Spain Majorca Holland Crete Camargue May Austria California/ Arizona AVAILABLE June Holland Lapland Iceland August Gibraltar Peru September Camargue Bosphorus East USA October Australia November South Africa BRITISH TOURS: March Exe Estuary April North Norfolk May Scot. Highlands New Forest October Stodmarsh Portland Bill Islay North Norfolk Exe Estuary FOR FULL DETAILS OF THE ABOVE TOURS AND ANY OTHER SPECIALISED TRAVEL, APPLY TO: IBIS TOURS (ARRANGED BY FURNESS TRAVEL LIMITED, A MEMBER OF THE FURNESS WITHY GROUP 148 GLOUCESTER ROAD NOR RTH, ) FILTON, BRISTOL. TELEPHONE (0272) 791172 & 695050. TELEX 449840. ATOL 543BC, Member of The Association of British Travel Agents Eighteen years’ service to naturalists and birdwatchers Holidays organised by Birdwatchers for Birdwatchers ETHIOPIA (the Rift Valley) SRI LANKA NEPAL MOROCCO SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK (Virginia) YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (Wyoming) VANCOUVER AND THE ROCKIES ZIMBABWE RWANDA (for Gorillas and Birds) TANZANIA KENYA (Mount Kenya, Samburu) KENYA (Lake Turkana) KENYA (Lake Victoria and Mt. Elgon) KENYA (Indian Ocean coast, Tsavo) BULGARIA THE SPANISH PYRENEES YUGOSLAVIA TURKEY S.W. SPAIN THE CAMARGUE N.E. GREECE LAKE NEUSIEDL THE HIGH ALPS MAJORCA LAWRENCE G. HOLLOWAY ORNITHOLIDAYS @< Dept. 4, 1/3 Victoria Drive, Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, PO21 2PW. Telephone 0243 821230 ATOL Licence No. 743 RSPB SCOTTISH NEWS Films Acclaimed by many as ‘the Best Ever’ at their Scottish Premieres, the latest programme of RSPB films will be touring Scotland in the coming months. Why not make a note of your local show now! This year’s films are ‘‘Short-eared Owl’’, ‘‘The Masterbuilders”’ (a fascinating look at the art of nest building) and ‘‘The Vital River’’ (an insight into the wildlife and management of our waterways). Detailed below are the shows before the New Year whilst visits to other venues (including Perth, Bute, East Kilbride and Ayr) will be made in the first months of next year. 15th September Helensburgh Victoria Halls 2nd November Eastwood Eastwood Theatre 4th November St Andrews Buchanan Theatre 9th November Dumfries High School 10th November Milngavie Town Hall 16th November Dundee Bonar Hall 19th November Kirkcaldy Philp Hall 23rd November Cramond Dunfermline College of Physical Education 25th November Aboyne Deeside Community Centre 26th November Aberdeen City Art Gallery 2nd December Ardrossan Civic Centre 3rd December Dunfermline Carnegie Hall (All shows start at 7.30 p.m.) One Day Conference 2nd October—MacRobert Pavilion, Royal Highland Showground, Ingliston, nr. Edinburgh. —Places still available for this ‘fun’ event which this year is being generously supported by BP Petroleum. — Featuring talks by DAVID ELCOME (‘‘The Language of Birds’’), ERIC MEEK (‘‘Orkney’s Birds’’?), STEWART TAYLOR and DAVID MINNS (‘‘Pinewoods of Caledonia’’), and DAVID MOWER (‘‘Avocet — Symbol of Success’’). — Also Bird Quiz; raffle, art exhibition; displays; tombola; RSPB ‘shop’; group Stalls. Tickets only £7.50 (includes coffee/lunch/afternoon tea) from RSPB Scottish Office, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 SBN. wdoe" G- Weg Aepinyes - ‘Aepuoyy uadgQ POLL? :18L “YOIMION “YS UOI] BUY OZ adjuad euawed YIMION IY YSINUO;Y Ul Coys [12334 ANO JISI/, OO'9LLF 09 X O9-GL J4B48A09SIq |JaUYSNG G6 6SLF 09 X 09-GZ H4eAZIaL Y BH OS LL F OS X GD-PL POO xeWIN] oo Ss9eF (japPOlWW MAN) ZNGZ X OF 249!GeH OO Lycs 08 X 77 J98UIAIS S666 F adoosbulllods O09 X 09-02 Huey sajieyd japon (aseo ad At-Buljs Bulpnjoul) sadoosajeL JOG OL X OZ wsiid $001 Op X OL uusiud $oo1 9G x g lusiid $001 QG XZ uusiid $001 OP XB lustid Joo Of xX g tusiud yool 77 Xx 8 O19!1U OG X TL Ov xX OL wMOv xs ADZ OS X OL dSOZOS*L dDZ OV XS St EcsF zO 8L dDZOExS8 aig YBa japon sivjnooulg jUuUes4 SaeUy OO'SZLF Ocelds S6'08s S6VLE G2 cls os’ 493 S66E3 00° 6S3 08°89 08's93 06'0€3 S6 67H se L7F ZO 9G ZO LZ Z0 OY z0 9£ ZO LZ ZO 6L ZO ZL ZO ZZ 20 77 ZO pZ zo 9€ ZO 9€ 20 GtS add (Yap ul ape) JSIAOJION (uelssny) sola} zo BL ZO GE 20 yz ZOvd ZO 9E zo BL ZO €% 20 77 oexs OosgcxZ oe xs WaJe1ON Ov X OL luajydouer Og xX OL wuaidouar OF X 8 AluNOoD OF X OL Xlig PUEID OVX 8B osc F S66c F O9E? F S66VLF oO'Sc4 F S6écv F oo'cL F oo'od euar ssiaz OO 6LLF OO LyTcsF 9L’'98EF OG veesF cS L8cF GGSGELF alg sa)jeUu ZO ge Z0 7Z ZO9E Z0 92 ZO 02 zog WBE uoqnpny br x 8 eue!g OF x OL rAje!Q W9O/a9G x 8 rAle1Q VW9O/aO0r Xx OL 241810 AOE X 8B rwAle1G dot xX 8 l@po IMS +YSIGeH (359M) SS19Z saoid JUNOODSIp je Aqyenb do} 42t39 _ $|apoud 40 a21049 e 4a4j0 sie| nOoulg *s190jap ysulebe oe seeA-ua} |In} e Alles pue ueder e Ul apeW ase s}uauWIN4}su! Qiedns asay} “s}Uawalinbes jje yIns 0} yuesY SAY asay} ‘saiyioyine J sescssernps put signa sneer A ALB SSn TE 05, Walter Thomson, Printer, Selkirk QL be eee ISSN 0036-9144 SCOTTIS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Voi. 12 No. 4 WINTER 1982 ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure, Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Tobermory (0688) 24 Orkney Islands ROUSAY Enjoy good food and comfortable accommodation at the licensed TAVERSOE HOTEL the ideal centre for ornithologists. Within easy walking distance, Rousay offers a range of habitat unique to a small island. Moorland, cliffs, lochs and sea shore attract over 300 species including many birds of prey. Brochure from: IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, ORKNEY Tel. 085682 325 BBE B°BP2BRPEORE RIOR LEO PRIEE LOPLI Isle of Jura oJ See Jura’s birds of prey and other rare species oJ Delightful modern bungalow with all amenities and beauti- ful views. Three bedrooms, electric blankets, immersion heater, well-fitted kitchen. FOR FULL DETAILS TELEPHONE 041 - 946 - 4361 (evenings only) Binocular Repairs RE you a cross-eyed birdwatch- er? Even with careful use, binoculars can become mis-aligned Over a period. We offer a special service of cleaning and _ re-align- ment at the prices listed below for any make or size of hand-held binocular. RSPB and SOC members (please state you are a member) £12.85 including p and p and VAT. Non-members £16.52. A full repair service is also available. Send to: Service Dept. Charles Frank Ltd, PO Box 5, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2NL. CYGNUS WILDLIFE Birdwatching holidays at realistic prices... 1983 Programme Jan 11-31—Sri Lanka £950 Jan 29-Feb 17—Thailand £1090 Feb 7-25—Northern India £940 Feb 20-Mar 11—WMalaysia £1200 Mar 31-Apr 16—Texas £770 Apr 10-May 15—lIsrael £775 Apr 30-May 15—Turkey £950 May 2-16—Soviet Central Asia (Tashkent & £825 Samarkand) May 7-15—Camargue £395 Jul 2-16—Spanish Pyrenees £490 Aug 5-24—Tanzania £1450 Aug 7-25—Kashmir £1095 Nov 11-26—Ethiopia £950 Nov 14-Dec 2—Nepal £1490 Nov 19-Dec 4—Sene-Gambia £925 Cygnus Wildlife Worldwide Holidays For full information and colour brochure contact our resident ornithologist Paul Dukes. Southwest Travel Ltd., 96 Fore Street, Kingsbridge, Devon TQ7 PY. Telephone Kingsbridge (0548) 6178 - Telex 45639 (Comput G) P57 Member of The Association of British Travel Agents Eighteen years’ service to naturalists and birdwatchers Holidays organised by Birdwatchers for Birdwatchers ETHIOPIA (the Rift Valley) SRI LANKA NEPAL MOROCCO SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK (Virginia) YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (Wyoming) VANCOUVER AND THE ROCKIES ZIMBABWE RWANDA (for Gorillas and Birds) TANZANIA KENYA (Mount Kenya, Samburu) KENYA (Lake Turkana) KENYA (Lake Victoria and Mt. Elgon) KENYA (Indian Ocean coast, Tsavo) BULGARIA THE SPANISH PYRENEES YUGOSLAVIA TURKEY S.W. SPAIN THE CAMARGUE N.E. GREECE LAKE NEUSIEDL THE HIGH ALPS MAJORCA LAWRENCE G. HOLLOWAY ORNITHOLIDAYS “® Dept. 4, 1/3 Victoria Drive, Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, PO21 2PW. Telephone 0243 821230 ATOL Licence No. 743 SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 4, WINTER 1982 Page Breeding status of the Crested Tit (M. J. H. Cook) ... 97 Wintering waders on the Atlantic shores of the Uists and Benbecula (Nigel E. Buxton) — . .. 106 Birdwatching in Sutherland (lan Durance Paniiey. we AIS Short Notes Storm Petrels attacked by Peregrines (E. Maguire) 118 Common Tern attacking Little Tern chick (A. J. Clunas) : .. 119 Inland colonies of Pesser Black- backed Gulls (P. W. Sandeman) - 119 St Kilda Gannets in 1980 (S. Wanless & Vi E. “Wood) 120 Reviews ‘sia sae a ois tee wee waa 222 Current literature Sas ous dee ies see ... 126 Notices sé we ss sae sie or ise 128 The Scottish Dennalon ay Club Report of Council & Accounts ae om -« 130 Officials of the Club for Session 46... ae ... 137 Branch News ; a ath sie ane is 139 The Waterston Memorial Hides aes — oe .. 139 Autumn highlight ae ae sae Sa ae .. 140 Stop press ees oa wes re oe sas .. 140 Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe TEWAY TO A WORLD OF INTEREST OUR 1983 ORNITHOLOGICAL BROCHURE IS NOW AVAILABLE January June BRITISH TOURS: California polene Laplan February Iceland March Malaysia/Borneo July Exe Estuary Swiss Alps March August April Israel Peru North Norfolk September April Gibraltar May Gibraltar Camargue Majorca Bosphorus Scot. Highlands Holland Octob New Forest Crete ctober Camargue East USA Australia October May Venezuela Stodmarsh Austria November Portland Bill California/ South Africa North Norfolk Arizona Falkland Islands Exe Estuary FOR FULL DETAILS OF THE ABOVE TOURS AND ANY OTHER a a VEL, APPLY TO: IBIS TOURS CNG BY FURNESS TRAVEL LIMITE dis AMEMBER OF THE FURNESS WITHY GROUP) 148 GLOUCESTER ROAD No RTH, FILTON, BRISTOL. TELEPHONE (0272) 791172 & 695050. TELEX 449840. ATOL 543BC. | SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Volume 12 No. 4 Winter 1982 Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and S. R. D. da Prato Breeding status of the Crested Tit M. J. H. COOK The colonisation of plantations by Crested Tits is one of the most satisfactory outcomes of afforestation. This paper presents an up-to-date report on the status of this species and discusses factors governing its distribution. The breeding distribution of the Crested Tit was mapped during the five years of the BTO Atlas work between 1968 and 1972 but no attempt was made to do more than find evi- dence of breeding in each 10 km square. The relatively restric- ted distribution and exclusively Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris habitat of the Crested Tit make it a suitable subject for more detailed survey. While native Scots Pine forests are increas- ingly being subjected to commercial forestry practices, further areas of forestry plantations are now maturing into suitable habitat. The need for a baseline for future monitoring was therefore seen as important and it was decided to undertake as thorough a survey as possible during the breeding seasons of 1979 and 1980. Methods The base unit for recording was the 5-km square, thus giving a con- siderable increase in accuracy over the Atlas work. The survey included most areas of apparently suitable habitat in the Highland and Grampian regions, and most 5-km squares within this area were visited during the two seasons. Breeding evidence was obtained in three categories : (1) Possible ‘breeding. Birds present in apparently suitable breeding habitat in the breeding season but no further evidence of breeding ob- tained. (2) Probable breeding. (a) Birds courting, displaying, singing or appar- ently holding territory. (b) Anxious behaviour indicating nest or brood nearby. (c) Excavating or building nest. (3) Proved breeding. (a) Nest found containing eggs or young. (b) Used nest found. (c) Recently fledged young. (d) Adult carrying food or faecal 98 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 12(4) sacs. (e) Adult entering or leaving a hole in circumstances indicating an occupied nest. These criteria are similar to those used in the BTO Atlas (Sharrock 1976) on which they are based. The breeding season was taken as ex- tending trom April Ist to June 30th, Most of the breeding evidence obtained related to categories 1, 2b and 3c, d and e above. Despite the apparently extremely sedentary nature of most Crested ‘Tits the degree of accuracy of this survey precluded the use of records of juveniles as proof of breeding once the family had dispersed, since dispersal distances of more than 2 km have been recorded in Scot- tish woods (Deadman 1973). Even newly fledged family parties will forage over areas of at least 3 ha thereby crossing the boundaries of 5-km squares in some cases, The over recording of occupied breeding squares, due to the movement of family parties, is, however, thought to be slight. With this species song is of little use as a sign of possible breeding, as it is seldom used; the low density and wide spacing ot most Crested Tit territories probably render it ineffective Comparatively few nests were found as the Crested Tit is a Schedule 1 protected species under the Protection of Birds Acts and only those participants in the survey holding the necessary Nature Conservancy Council licence were therefore able to approach occupied nest sites. Information was also collected in many cases On the nature of the habitat where birds were recorded. Breeding distribution Crested Tits were recorded during the breeding season in 78 5-km squares (figure). As this species is relatively seden- tary it is likely that most of the possible and probable records refer to breeding birds—particularly those in discrete woods not in the immediate neighbourhood of an established popula- tion. For the same reason two late autumn records from north- east Inverness-shire have been included. The apparent spread of the Crested Tit in the early part of this century is documented by Baxter & Rintoul (1953) and Campbell (1974). It would appear that during the tien years since the work for the BTO Atlas there has been some further expansion at the edges of the Crested Tit’s range. In Banffshire the coastal record represents a recent recolonisation. Although Crested Tits used to breed in this area (Witherby et al. 1943) they had long ceased to do so. In the lower Spey Valley Crested Tits are now breeding at Fochabers for the first time in at least ten years and are to be found, thinly, in plantations right down the east Morayshire boundary. In 1980 birds were found breeding in Strathconon in Ross-shire for the first time but whether this represents an expansion or a_ previously overlooked population is not known. As a breeding species in Sutherland the Crested Tit has only been known in the past four years. Since the first record of presence, near Dornoch in October 1956 (Macdonald 1957), a few other sightings in 99 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 1982 CURA Te Lisiee. | | | | t YL yleee )@|@ SYIHS-SSANHJANI sorear: 5 “O861 ~- 6261 Ul YI PeySesg 9yy jo uol}ynqiiysip Bulpseig = ‘bI4 Bulpseiq ajqeqoig eo} Bulpaaiq aIqissog » O 100 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 12(4) that area culminated in the first proved breeding in Shin Forest in 1978 (D. Whitaker pers comm.). No records were obtained during the survey years from Deeside. There is no documented evidence that Crested Tits have ever bred here although there have been between 11 and 14 sight records since 1960, including May records in suitable breeding habitat in 1974 (Dennis 1975) and 1977 (Dennis et al. 1978). Breeding habitat Habitat data were obtained for 47 of the 78 squares where Crested Tits were found. Observers were asked to supply information on the forest form, species and growth habit of trees present, and the nature of the ground cover. In 12 cases nests were found and only here is the precise nest site habitat known. The Scots Pine featured in every habitat description. The nests found were all in Scots Pine stumps or in nest boxes on Scots Pines, with the exception of three nest boxes on Corsi- can Pine P. nigra in Culbin Forest. Even these were in stands of Corsican Pine adjacent to Scots, which were never more than 100m distant. It is plain that in Britain at the present time the Scots Pine is an essential requirement of Crested Tit habitat. In 22 cases the habitat was predominantly native Scots Pine forest while in 25 it was plantation. Crested Tits were not found breeding in plantations less than 20 years old. The Morayshire coastal and lower Spey Valley sites are mainly in plantations, while most Ross-shire and west Inver- ness-shire records come from natural-looking forest. In the upper Spey Valley both habitats are extensively utilised. Information was sought on the nature of the side branches of the trees (table 1) as it was felt that this might affect the ability of birds to move between the tree canopy and the ground where they regularly feed, hence influencing their distribution (see Discussion). Table 1. Height above ground of lowest side branches on Scots Pine trees in Crested Tit territories Height (metres) 1 or less 2 3 4 5 No. of records 14 8 2 2 3 The nature of the ground cover was described in most cases and here the dominant species was Heather Calluna vul- garis which featured in almost all descriptions, very often characterised as ‘rank’ or ‘bushy’. In Culbin Forest, however, Heather was absent from the immediate vicinity of three nest sites. In these cases the only ground vegetation was a scant covering of mosses and lichens although patchy Heather was 1982 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 101 growing at a distance of 80-100m in each case. Particularly inland, the presence of long Heather in a bird’s range may be of some survival value. Crested Tits commonly feed on the ground during winter and in snowy weather food may still be available in thick Heather cover although inaccessible on level ground. This would apply less in coastal forests such as Culbin where snow seldom lies thickly for long. Discussion Any discussion of the Crested Tit’s distribution in Britain must attempt to answer the following points: (1) Why do they restrict themselves to northern Scotland despite a relatively large amount of Scots Pine elsewhere in Britain ? (2) Why, within northern Scotland, is Speyside well populated while the birds are absent from apparently similar wood- lands in Deeside ? (3) Why, within the birds’ range, are some Scots Pine forests occupied while others are not ? The European range of the Crested Tit stretches from near the Arctic circle in Scandinavia down to southern Spain and eastwards well into the Soviet Union (Witherby et al. 1943). Over much of this range the birds are found in Spruce Picea abies, and even broadleaf forests, as well as various species of Pine. In Britain Spruce has never been an endemic species and they are restricted to Scots Pine. In Britain we can assume that the Crested Tit colonised after 10,000 BP, following the last ice age, and before Britain became isolated from Europe around 8,000 BP. As the ice retreated so the Crested Tit spread northwards—eventually presumably occupying most of the Caledonian Pine Forest which covered much of upland Scotland. Southern England at this time contained little Scots Pine and so the Scottish Tit population became isolated. This perhaps resulted from the fact that they were by this time more wholly adapted to Scots Pinewood than their southern European counterparts living in areas where Scots Pine was less exclusively dominant. Such isolation eventually led to the formation of a distinct sub- species, Parus cristatus scoticus. In recent times forestry planting has led to a great increase in new Scots Pine plantations in southern Scotland and Eng- land but the sedentary nature of Crested Tits has meant that these have remained uncolonised. Within Europe birds may move to a limited extent, for example in the tit irruption of autumn 1957 some Crested Tits were reported moving along the south coast of the Ijsselmeer in Holland (Cramp et al. 1960). They seem reluctant to cross water as they have only 102 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 102 been recorded in the south or east of England on about ten occasions between 1844, on the Isle of Wight (Kelsall & Munn 1905), and the most recent record of one seen in the Isles of Scilly in 1971 (Penhallurick 1978). Colonisation of new areas of Britain from either Europe or the very static Scottish pop- ulation therefore seems most unlikely. Within the north of Scotland the natural habitat of the Crested Tit, the Caledonian pine forest, has been progressively reduced as the trees have been felled for building, smelting and to create grazing land. Today the largest remaining frag- ments are in Speyside, Deeside and the Glen Affric area of Inverness-shire. As the pines were felled so presumably the Crested Tits retreated into increasingly isolated pockets. Many of the larger pockets retain birds at present with the notable exception of Deeside. It seems unlikely that Deeside never held Crested Tits as large areas of habitat appear suit- able. Perhaps the most likely reason for their current absence is that the population was at one time wiped out by some natural catastrophe and the Cairngorm mountains have sub- sequently presented a barrier to recolonisation from Speyside. The nature of such a catastrophe is unclear, but the Deeside winters can be colder than those on Speyside (table 2) and the effect of severe weather on Crested Tit numbers can _ be dramatic. For example the population in part of Rothiemurchus Forest on Speyside was reduced from ten pairs to three pairs following the severe winter of 1947 (Nethersole-Thompson & Watson 1974). Table 2. Average daily mean temperatures in degrees Celsius at stations on Deeside and Speyside (from Ross in Omand 1976) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Braemar 0.4 05 2.7 52 82 11.5 12.7123 103 7.5 3.4 1.7 (Deeside) Glenmore 0.7 11 3.2 5.4 79 11.2 12.6 12.3 103 7.5 3.8 2.2 Lodge (Speyside) Note : The averages for Braemar (Height 333 m) are for the period 1941-70 while those for Glenmore Lodge (Height 341 m) are estimates from short-term records. With the exception of Deeside most sizeable native pine- woods are occupied and these have provided the nuclei from which Crested Tits have colonised plantations during this century. At present the distribution of the birds in plantations is very patchy, the coastal forests of Morayshire being well populated while the extensive inland forests of Culloden, Assich and Darnaway contain, at best, a very few pairs. This situation is doubtless attributable to a number of factors. 1982 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 103 Crested Tits require dead tree stumps in which to excavate their nest holes. For this purpose a minimum trunk diameter of around 15 cm seems necessary, which will preclude birds from breeding in plantations less than 20 years old. Colonisa- tion of new plantations might be speeded up by leaving large dead stumps standing in the plantation area, were this not against good forestry practice. Alternative nest sites can be used and in some of the Moray Firth coastal plantations the birds regularly use nest boxes. In Lossie Forest Crested Tits have been found excavating, albeit unsuccessfully, into dead trees of only 10 cm diameter—further evidence of the pres- sure on available nest sites in such woods. As plantations come of age they can only be colonised if an established Crested Tit colony exists within the birds’ regular dispersal distance. Deadman (1973), working in Culbin Forest, found a mean dispersal distance for juveniles of 1,343 m with a maximum of 2,232 m. His sample, however, consisted of only ten birds and, no doubt, longer dispersals sometimes occur. The populations in coastal Morayshire can be accoun- ted for in this way. Crested Tits were first recorded at Foch- abers as early as 1868 or 1869, having presumably spread from upper Speyside, and were fairly numerous there by 1901 (Baxter & Rintoul 1953). From Fochabers further spread westwards could then take place, the first records from the Forres area coming by 1910-20 (Campbell 1974). Why further westward spread into the inland forests of Nairnshire and northeast Inverness-shire has been on such a small scale is unclear although much of the planting here is of comparatively recent origin and populations may increase in the near future as more nest sites become available. Colonisation from the Carrbridge and Grantown woods to the south would be less likely because of the intervening open moorland. When plantations consist of tall, smooth-boled trees with branches near the top they again lose their attractiveness to Crested Tits, a phenomenon observed in the Speymouth Forest in recent years. This might be explained by the fact that, in autumn and winter especially, Crested Tits frequently feed on the ground. This is normally reached by working progres- sively down through the branches of trees and birds appear reluctant to fly directly to the ground from a high canopy. The evidence on side branches obtained in this survey points to habitats containing trees with low side branches being fav- oured although, of course, this situation will pertain in other woods where Crested Tits are absent for other reasons. This may be a further contributory factor in the establishment of the populations in the Morayshire coastal forests, which are mostly on poor soils and contain areas of stunted tree growth which are favoured feeding areas for Crested Tits. 104 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 12(4) In certain areas plantations which do not offer breeding habitat may be important in providing a bridge between iso- lated pockets of native pine. Here small groups of Crested Tits must always be at risk from disease or climate and re- colonisation would otherwise be unlikely. Of particular concern at the present time are threats to the continued existence of the native woodlands. In some areas lack of regeneration of pine trees due to grazing pressure 1s a serious problem. Fencing of the woodlands to exclude deer and stock, as in parts ot Glen Affric, provides an effective, albeit expensive, solution. A major threat is provided by the increasing commercial forestry practices to which woodlands are being subjected. The interpianting of the natural wood- lands with high density plantations removes the open character of the torest with its well developed shrub layer, much fav- oured by Crested Tits. Dead and rotting trees which provide nest sites are also likely to be extracted. Even if the planta- tions which subsequently grow up are predominantly of Scots Pine they will presumably support at best the much lower density of Crested Tits currently to be found in other inland plantations. The complete destruction of the habitat will fol- low if the mature native trees are felled when the plantation is cropped. Size of the population Estimates of the Scottish population in recent times have ranged from 300-400 pairs by Nethersole-Thompson in Darling & Koyd (1969) to ‘approaching or even exceeding 1,000 pairs’ by Sharrock (1976). The latter estimate was based on an average figure of at least 20 pairs per occupied 10-km square. Another possible method of assessing the population in- volves measuring the area of occupied forest of different types and applying observed densities in different habitats to these figures. For this purpose an attempt was made to assign occu- pied woodlands to one of three categories: (1) Natural looking pinewood such as that found in parts of Abernethy, Rothiemurchus, Glen Feshie and Glen Affric. Total occupied area c.3,300 ha. (2) Areas of natural look- ing pinewood at low density or mixed with birch Betula. Total occupied area c.4,000 ha. (3) Plantations. Total occupied area c.35,000 ha. Average densities for the natural pinewood (category 1) were taken as 0.15 pairs per hectare (S. Taylor pers. comm.). In plantations densities vary considerably, from 0.1 pairs per hectare in part of Culbin Forest (Deadman 1973) to 0.01 pairs per hectare in Lossie Forest (pers. obs.). The issue in planta- 1982 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TIT 105 tions is of course further complicated by the fact that the species and age composition ot the forests is of a patchwork nature, sometimes being suitable for Crested Tits and some- times not. The Culbin density includes only suitable breeding habitat while the Lossie figure is an average for the whole wood, inciuding much unsuitable habitat. For this reason the Lossie figure is adopted though for some forests this may be rather low. No figures are available for the second category, of low density natural pine, and the piantation density is therefore adopted for these areas also. From these figures it is possible to arrive at some estimate of population size (table 3). Table 3. Population estimates of Crested Tits in different woodland types Woodland Area (ha) Pairs perha. Total pairs Pure natural looking pinewood 3300 0.15 495 Low density natural pinewood 4000 0.01 40 Plantations 35000 0.01 350 Total population 885 Although no claim of great accuracy is attached to the esti- mated total of 885 pairs 1t seems unlikely that, even in a good year, the population will greatly exceed 1,00U pairs. Following a severe winter the numbers could be considerably less, per- haps leading to extinction of small populations on the peri- phery of the range. 1979 and 1980 followed, respectively, severe and mild winters so the results of this survey might be expected to show an average situation. Acknowledgments I am pleased to acknowledge the help of the many people who spent time in the woods obtaining records for this survey. My special thanks are also due to Stewart Taylor and David Whitaker for supplying un- published details of Crested Tit status in their areas, and to Roy Dennis and Tony Mainwood for constructive criticisms of an earlier draft of this paper. Lastly 1 acknowledge generous financial help from the SOC Endowment Fund which enabled me to travel extensively to the more remote woodlands during 1980. Summary The breeding distribution of the Crested Tit during 1979 and 1980 is described and recent changes are pointed out. Reasons for the present distribution are discussed. Information on habitat preference is given and current threats to the native Scots Pinewoods are described. The current breeding population probably fluctuates around 900 pairs, accord- ing to the severity of the preceding winters. References Baxter (E. V.) & Rintoul (L. J.) 1953. The Birds of Scotland, 2 vols. Edin- burgh M Campbell (B.) 1974. The Crested Tit. Forestry Commission Leaflet 106 BREEDING STATUS OF CRESTED TITS 12(4) 98. H.M.S.O., London # Cramp (S.), Pettet (A.) and Sharrock (J. T. R.) 1960. The irruption of tits in autumn 1957. Brit. Birds 53: 99-117. HM Darling (F. F.) and Boyd (J. M.) 1969. The Highlands and Islands. Collins, London. M§ Dead- man (A. J.) 1973. A population study of the Coal Tit Parus ater ana the Crested Tit Parus cristatus in a Scottish Pine plantation. Ph.D. thesis, Aber- deen University M Dennis (R. H.) 1975. Scottish Bird Report 1974. Scot. Birds 8: 395-497. HM Dennis (R. H.) et al. 1978. Scottish Bird Report 1977. Scot. Birds 10: 116-153. M Kelsall (J. E.) and Munn (P. W.) 1905. The Birds of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Witherby, London. MM Macdonald (D.) 1957. Crested Tit in south east Sutherland. Scot. Nat. 69: 57. M Nethersole- Thompson (D.) and Watson (A.) 1974. The Cairngorms. Collins, London. @ Omand (D.) (ed.) 1976. The Moray Book. Paul Harris, Edinburgh. M Penhal- lurick (R. D.) 1978. The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Tor Mark Press, Truro. M Sharrock (J. T. R.) 1976. The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland. British Trust for Ornithology, Tring. HM Witherby (H. F.) Jourdain (F. C. R.), Ticehurst (N. F.) and Tucker (B. W.) 1943. The Handbook of British Birds. Vol. 1. Witherby, London. M. J. H. Cook, Rowanbrae, Clochan, Buckie, Banffshire. Wintering waders on the Atlantic shores of the Uists and Benbecula NIGEL E. BUXTON The great sweeps of sand along the Atlantic shores of these Outer Hebridean islands are known to be important for waders in summer and autumn but have been little studied in winter. This survey dem- onstrates that in February they support nationally significant populations of several species. Although many of Scotland’s estuaries have been censused regularly for waders during the last decade, through the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry, few data have been forthcoming on the waders of the southern isles of the Outer Hebrides. Buxton (1979) has quantified the wintering birds of the Eye Peninsula (Lewis), examined much of the coastline of Lewis and Harris (1982) and monitored several sites in those islands through the year (1981). Prater (1973a) suggested that large numbers of some species winter in the Uists and Summers & Buxton (1979) have shown that considerable numbers of Ringed 1982 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 107 Plover, Dunlin, Turnstone and Sanderling occur on autumn passage. However, due to the scarcity of observers through the year, and especially in midwinter, the situation has never been clarified. This survey of almost 200 km of coastline, wet machair and floodings, carried out between 11th and 15th February 1980, was designed to determine the numbers of waders on the Atlantic coasts of the Uists and Benbecula in winter (figure). -—_—_—_____; O Km 20 Fig. The Uists and Benbecula showing the area counted for waders (thick line).:1—Traigh Ear, 2—Vallay Strand, 3—Lagan Maskeir, 4—Oitir Mhor, 5—Peinavalla, 6—South Ford, 7—Howmore Estuary, 8—Peninerine, 9—Rubha Ardvule, 10—Trollaskeir, 11—North Bois- dale, 12—Garrynamonie, 13—Smerclate. Habitat and methods The west coasts of the Uists and Benbecula are mainly extensive shell-sand beaches backed by dune systems, which 108 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 12(4) are occasionally interrupted by rocky shore or shingle, e.g. Peninerine, Trollaskeir (figure). In some places this rocky shore takes the form of a promontory, as at Rubha Ardvule. Landward of the dunes is the machair—a floristically-rich, calcareous grassland plain. During the winter much of this low-lying area floods to form marshes and shallow pools. The majority of the west coastline, including most of the machair, was visited once during the study period; only northwest North Uist was omitted due to lack of time but it is believed that only Turnstones and Purple Sandpipers occur there in any significant numbers. Occasional visits to the east coasts of the Uists have shown that the latter support very few birds. Results The counts are summarised in table 1. Table 1. Numbers of waders on the west coasts of the Uists and Benbecula North Uist Benbecula South Uist Total Oystercatcher 568 154 1,102 1,824 Ringed Plover 849 247 742 1,838 Golden Plover — 36 102 138 Grey Plover 71 2 27 100 Lapwing 338 45 515 898 Knot 5 _ 3 8 Sanderling 255 88 917 1,260 Purple Sandpiper 70 412 940 1,422 Dunlin 2,113 26 1,036 3,175 Bar-tailed Godwit 1,178 4 713 1,895 Curlew 163 129 435 727 Redshank 34 105 237 376 Turnstone 139 284 1,030 1,453 Total 5,783 1,532 7,799 15,114 cme Oystercatcher. The main concentrations were on the large sandy flats of the Oitir Mhor and the South Ford between the three islands (209 and 569 birds respectively). One other strand and two areas of rocky coast supported flocks of over 100 birds but usually distribution was in loose flocks of 10-80. Excluding the Oitir Mhor and the South Ford, the shores of South Uist carried the largest numbers of birds although the pir on both North Uist and Benbecula were still consider- able. Ringed Plover. This was one of the most common species with over 1,800 present, mainly in North and South Uist where the favoured sandy habitat is most widespread. In North Uist the largest flocks frequented the sheltered northern strands, but in South Uist birds were distributed more or less continuously along the relatively more exposed linear shore. However, 1982 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 109 certain foreshore localities in the latter island did support sizeable concentrations (30-120 birds) whilst the biggest flock was 349 birds feeding on flooded machair at Rubha Ardvule. These birds probably moved to the adjacent shore at a suitable state of tide or weather conditions. 'n North Uist the largest flock was 447 birds on Traigh Ear, but two other strands supported flocks of over 100, with smaller numbers further south, mainly in the Oitir Mhor. Golden Plover. Very few occurred on the coast and these were mainly in Benbecula and South Uist. More detailed counts of the croftland would undoubtedly have revealed the true status. Grey Plover. The favoured habitats were mainly the fords between the islands and the extensive strands of North Uist. The largest single flock was 51 birds feeding amongst Bar- tailed Godwit and Oystercatchers on Vallay Strand, but usually numbers were far smaller; a minimum of 10 in the Oitir Mhor, 12 in the South Ford and 10 in the vicinity of Baleshare. Lapwing. The largest coastal flocks were at Baleshare and the southern part of South Uist. Further large numbers, which were uncounted, frequented inland crofts, probably with the majority concentrated in South Uist. Knot. Very few wintered in the Uists; a situation which is typical throughout the Outer Hebrides (Buxton 1981). It is probable that some wintering Knot had already left since evidence from Harris suggests that the majority of Knot leave the islands in February (Buxton 1981). Small flocks are cer- tainly common on the strands during migration; for example, a were on Traigh Ear in April 1979 and 35 more near Bale- share. Sanderling. The islands supported 1,260 Sanderling, a total which compares very favourably with the 2,912-4,814 counted in the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry during the winters of 1971/2- 1974/5 on mainland Britain. The most important sites were along the Atlantic shores of South Uist with only 255 in North Uist and 88 in Benbecula. The largest flock (306) roosted along with Dunlin and Ringed Plovers in the Howmore Es- tuary, and seven other flocks contained more than 50 birds. Purple Sandpiper. Benbecula and South Uist supported most (95%) of the 1,422 counted, although the northwest corner of North Uist would certainly have held additional birds. The four largest flocks of c.200 each foraged mainly on rocky shores and outcrops, but several of the other groups fed on beds of cast kelp in association with Turnstones. Dunlin. This was the most numerous of the small waders with 110 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 12(4) 10 flocks of over 100 birds and one of c.1,000, mainly on North and South Uist. Most of the larger strands and flats supported flocks of between 150 and 300 with the greatest overall con- centration in North Uist. In South Uist the largest intertidal concentrations were near the South Ford (141) and the How- more Estuary (220) but even bigger numbers (446) fed on flooded machair to the north of Rubha Ardvule. Snipe. Few occurred on the shore in the mild weather of 1980 but numbers would be far greater in a hard winter. Observa- tions in the Isle of Lewis have suggested that the numbers of birds on the shore are also greater in late autumn. Bar-tailed Godwit. This is the common godwit of the Outer Hebrides with the population in the southern isles exceeding 1,800 birds. It was most abundant in North Uist with 410 in Traigh Ear and 503 in Vallay Strand. Another 200 frequented the Oitir Mhor, although only four occurred on Benbecula itself. In South Uist they were once again more common; the South Ford held over 500 with four other flocks of 30 to 70 birds distributed along the west coast. Curlew. These were scattered along all the coasts but were most numerous in the southern half of South Uist. Except for the fords and the large strands of North Uist Curlew mostly frequented the machair rather than the foreshore. Flocks on the shore tended to be small (<10), whilst the largest flock on the machair consisted of 150 birds. As with Golden Plover and Lapwing, the 727 birds counted almost certainly do not represent the true population; many more were probably dis- persed inland. Redshank. Although 376 were counted, this species was pro- bably underestimated due to extensive inland feeding. Few occurred in North Uist but Redshank were common in Ben- becula and South Uist with flocks of up to 80 in the latter island. Greenshank. As in Lewis and Harris (Buxton 1981), the num- bers (6) wintering on the west coasts of the Uists were small, with the majority feeding around the edges and channels of the North Ford. Turnstone, Although the overall total was large (1,453), rela- tively few were counted in North Uist, except near Lagan Maskeir (120). However, the vicinity of Balranald, which was uncounted, is known to support more. About 300 frequented the west coast of Benbecula with over 100 concentrated in the northwest of the island, but the largest numbers were in South Uist. Turnstones were not confined solely to rocky shores but fed also amongst the heaps of kelp on the strand- line and on flooded machair with Dunlin and Ringed Plover. 1982 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 111 Kelp forms an important feeding site; large flocks (50-140 birds) foraged amongst it at six locations, whilst only two flocks of equivalent size were on rocky areas or boulder beaches. Discussion Over 15,000 waders winter on the Atlantic coasts of the Uists and Benbecula. A few more, particularly Oystercatchers, Redshank and Turnstones, may winter on the east coasts, giving a total winter population of about 16,000 birds. This is a tar greater number than winters in Lewis and Harris (Buxton 1982), although important concentrations do occur there on certain sites. The majority (52%) frequent South Uist, mainly along the beaches, although large numbers of the smaller species feed on the flooded machair. North Uist supports most of the remainder (table 1) with high densities in Traigh Ear (640/km?) and Vallay Strand (150/km?2). The Oitir Mhor and South Ford are locally important for Oyster- catcher and Dunlin while internationally and nationally im- portant concentrations of several species occur along the western seaboard (table 2). The total of 1,800 Ringed Plover is large compared with both the mainland Scottish (950-1,613) and British (6,430-7,648) estuarine populations counted during the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry (Prater 1973b-1977). Two of the concentrations are internationally important whilst two others are of national importance (table 2). Table 2. Sites where important numbers of waders occurred Ringed Sanderling Purple Bar-tailed Plover Sandpiper Godwit Traigh Ear 447** Vallay Strand 122* 503* Lagan Maskeir 150** Peinavalla 213* South Ford 500* Howmore Estuary 306** Peninerine 198* Rubha Ardvule 349** 241* Trollaskeir 139* North Boisdale 100* Garrynamonie 121* Smerclate 200* ** internationally important; * nationally important (see Prater 1981) Prater and Davies (1978) calculated a total of 1,175 San- derling for Scotland from the average winter maxima during 1969-75. They estimated the numbers in the Outer Hebrides to be 750, but this study shows the numbers to be well in ex- cess of 1,000. This makes the Outer Hebrides, with two inter- nationally important concentrations, second only to Lanca- shire as a wintering area in the British Isles. 112 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 12(4) Two other species, Purple Sandpiper and Bar-tailed Godwit, winter in nationally important numbers (table 2). The numbers of Purple Sandpipers, again underestimated by previous wor- kers (Atkinson et al. 1978), with 940 on the west coast of South Uist alone, bear comparison with those on east Scot- tish coasts (Summers et al. 1975). Even species which do not attain international or national standards are of immense importance in the local Outer Hebridean or regional northwest Scotland context. Dunlin, birds occurring eisewhere in Britain in tens of thousands, are normally present only in small numbers scattered throughout the Outer Isles. Over 3,000 birds is a huge proportion or the local population and 1,000 in a single flock is an unusual concentration. There is an intrinsic difficulty in discussing nationally or internationally important sites in the Uists since few in these islands are discrete entities. Consequently flocks may not be static and the importance of the site will move with the flock, i.e. along the shore or between machair and shore. In the short time period of this census there was no evidence that birds moved between areas, but whereas during February 1980 the number of Ringed Plover in the North Ford was 71, in October 1980, well after peak migration in the Hebrides, over 400 were present. Several areas where these waders concentrate are already noted as Sites of Special Scientific Interest by the Nature Conservancy Council and a further measure of pro- tection from disturbance, even if only from birdwatchers, is given by the army ranges. Certain of these areas are tradi- tionally good for waders, but before their true importance can be fully understood further counts and ringing studies are needed to determine the amount of movement along the coast and between sites. Acknowledgments My thanks to Colin Brown for help with transport throughout the survey. Dr R. W. Summers offered valuable criticism and discussion on an early draft of the paper. Summary Over 15,000 waders were counted wintering on the Atlantic coasts of the Uists and Benbecula during February 1980. Dunlin was the most numerous species but Ringed Plover and Sanderling were both present on some sites in internationally important numbers. Bar-tailed Godwit and Purple Sandpiper also occurred in nationally important numbers in places. Previous studies of both Sanderling and Purple Sandpiper have underestimated the numbers in the Outer Hebrides. References Atkinson (N. K.) Davies (M.) & Prater (A. J.) 1978. The winter distribution of Purple Sandpipers in Britain. Bird Study 25: 223-228. HM Buxton (N. E.) 1982 WINTERING WADERS OF THE UISTS 113 1979. Wintering waders on the coast of the Eye Peninsula, Lewis. Hebridean Naturalist 3: 42-47. MH} Buxton (N. E.) 1981. Wader populations of the soft shores of Lewis and Harris, Outer Hebrides in 1979. Wader Study Group Bulletin 32: 29-33. HM Buxton (N. E.) 1982. The wintering coastal waders of Lewis and Harris, Outer Hebrides in 1978/79. Scottish Birds 12: 38-43. Prater (A. J.) 1973a. The 1972 mid-winter census of waders in Scotland. Scot- tish Birds 7: 391-398' MJ Prater (A. J.) 1973b-1977. Birds of Estuaries Enquiry Reports 1971/72-1974/75. BTO, RSPB, WT. HM Prater (A. J.) & Davies (M.) 1978. Wintering Sanderling in Britain. Bird Study 25: 33-38. HB Summers (R. W.), Atkinson (N. K.) & Nicoll (M.) 1975. Wintering wader populations on the rocky shores of eastern Scotland. Scottish Birds 8: 299-308. MH’) Summers (R. W.) & Buxton (N. E.) 1979. Autumn waders in the Outer Hebrides. Western Naturalist 8: 75-82. Dr Nigel E. Buxton, Nature Conservancy Council, 42 Aird Tong, Isle of Lewis, Western Isles. BAR-TAILED GODWIT John Busby Birdwatching in Sutherland IAN DURANCE PENNIE One day I walked a transect in west Sutherland for the Winter Atlas preliminary survey. In 4} hours I saw two birds —a Hoodie Crow and a Golden Eagle. A few days later a couple of hours in a birchwood produced two Blue Tits and a Woodcock. Even in early summer one can walk for several hours on some of the Sutherland moors and see no birds other than Greenshanks and Skylarks. Had I gone instead to the Dornoch Firth at the opposite end of the county, I could well have seen 2,000 Eiders, 800 Long-tailed Ducks and 1,000 each of Oystercatchers and Bar-tailed Godwits. The Dornoch Firth is one of the greatest holding grounds for Wigeon in the northern half of Britain, with probably over 10,000 if Loch Fleet is included, and 1,000 each of Teal and Mallard. Offshore between Brora and Tarbat Ness the Eider 114 BIRDWATCHING IN SUTHERLAND 12(4) was still relatively uncommon even in the 1950s but now there are up to 3,500 in autumn. Long-tailed Ducks in the same area are over 1,000 with similar numbers of Common and Velvet Scoters. All this, with the occasional bonus of King Eiders and Surf Scoters, makes one of the most attractive seaduck watching areas in Scotland. Unlike Easter Ross, however, Sutherland is not noted for goose watching. Small numbers of Greylags do turn up from time to time but it is uncertain whether these are migrants or local birds from Badanloch/ Loch Brora. For waders—superb!—both Dornoch and Loch Fleet, and the latter has the advantage of the road round the south side within a few yards of the tide edge. There is not much to choose between them otherwise—1,000 Oystercatchers with a climax of 2,000 Bartails at Dornoch and 3,000 Knot on the Golspie shore. Embo Pier and the mouth of Loch Fleet are best for seaducks, and Dornoch Point and Ardnacalce Point for surface feeding ducks and waders. Skelbo Point, prefer- ably with a telescope, is an excellent place to see ducks and waders—from your car—and the Golspie sea wall is also good. Inland in the southeast corner there is much of interest. The coniferous plantations, which still have a few Caper- caillies, are now sufficiently mature to have attracted Crested Tits and Crossbills. Up to the 1950s there were Corncrakes in every field, but an even stranger loss in the last ten years has been the once familiar song of the Corn Bunting. South of the Ord of Caithness there are no sea cliffs worthy of note but Fulmars have colonized every possible site as far inland as Morvich Rock in Strath Fleet. Many years have passed since Fulmars mistook Dunrobin Castle for a cliff and now Fulmars and Rabbits live side by side along the edge of the raised beach between Dunrobin and Strathsteven. The march between Sutherland and Caithness runs from The Ord to Drum Hollistan and at no point on this line are you within sight of human habitation. In this seldom-visited area of desolate moorland, flows and dubhlochans Black- throated Divers, Common Scoters and Arctic Skuas all breed. West from Drum Hollistan to Strathy is fine cliff scenery with a few scattered colonies of auks and Cormorants. For migra- tion studies this coastline is proving to be of great importance. ‘Attention to this was first drawn in 1931 when John Berry witnessed the greatest immigration of Snow Buntings ever recorded, and recent trapping studies by Graham Crittenden around Melvich have shown a regular passage of small pas- serines. Records from Strathy Point, Farr Point and Faraid Head indicate that these are potentially good spots for sea- watching. 1982 BIRDWATCHING IN SUTHERLAND 115 Further west lies Is:and Roan, in reality a group of three islands, Eilean nan Ron, Eilean Iosal and Meall Halm. The cliffs here are poor in nesting birds, probably because they do not form good ledges, but there is a Cormorant colony on Meall Halm and Bonxies are now nesting on the main island. The greatest interest lies in the Storm Petrel colony which seems to be a large one, though their status in Sutherland is really little known. Island Roan is a wintering ground for Barnacle Geese, which may be identified and counted with a telescope from the adjacent mainland. Barnacles winter also on Hoan Island and are frequently seen on the grasslands near Balnakeil, with smaller numbers on Handa, Badcall and the Assynt shores. ArcTic SKUA Donald Watson Although the Kyle of Tongue cannot compare with the east coast firths for birds it is a place of outstanding beauty, greatly enhanced by the magnificent new causeway which might have been designed for bird and seal watchers. The great Moine Peninsula, vast and remote, will reward the energetic birdwatcher with spectacular scenery but, Fulmars apart, he will have to work hard for his birds: a pair of Pere- grines and Ravens, skuas possibly, and many breeding Dunlin and Redthroats on the tarns, but in this sort of terrain one must never overlook the possibility of northern waders on the tundra-like higher slopes. From the cliff tops on a clear day the twin islands of Stack and Skerry are clearly seen on the northern horizon, the Stack with its gannetry like a great white haystack and the Skerry a low reef with a lighthouse looking no bigger than a candle. West again round birdless Eriboll to the lime rich grass- lands of Durness and Balnakeil and a different world! Here the birdwatcher should consult his geological map and move inland to a unique series of lochs, lime and bird rich, Caladail, Croispol, Lanlish and Borralie, but even without a map the Dryas octopetala at the roadside gives the show away at 116 BIRDWATCHING IN SUTHERLAND 12(4) once. Here are inland tern colonies and Black-headed Gulls (rare in the west) but these lochs are most noted for their breeding Tufted Ducks, and there have been recent breeding records of Gadwall and Shoveler. Back on the coast, from the Balnakeil car park walk along the sands to Faraid Head. The bay itself is worth a look in spring for Long-tailed Ducks, Eiders, Great Northern Divers and grebes but the main inter- est is the Puffin colony on the east side of the headland, reckoned by Mike Harris to have 1,800 occupied burrows. Here, with reasonable care and proper footwear, the Puffins may be watched and photographed at close range. Across the Kyle of Durness a minibus runs from Keoldale Ferry to Cape Wrath lighthouse and the Clo Mor—the ‘Great Web of Cloth’ as the striated cliffs appeared to early mariners. Here are the highest cliffs and largest Puffin colony on the British mainland, together with uncountable colonies of Guille- mots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Fulmars. Leave the minibus at the top of the Kearvaig track, walk to Kearvaig and, ap- proaching the Clo Mor from the west, follow the clifftop eastwards for about three miles, skirting the east side of Sgribhis-bheinn (pronounced ‘Skreeshvein’) to be picked up (by prior arrangement) at Inshore. This is a tough walk but a memorable one. The Capeside hills have the lowest (altitudi- nal) Ptarmigan in Scotland and the only Dotterel nest ever recorded in Sutherland was found here. There is little to be gained by going on to Cape Wrath itself unless, hopefully, to see North Rona from the lighthouse, but it can be seen equally well from the top of Sgribhis-bheinn or Far-mheall given a good day. From Cape Wrath southwards the cliffs, though imposing, have no significant bird colonies, apart from _ inaccessible Bulgach Island, until Handa is reached. Handa has cliffs and bird colonies scarcely less impressive than the Clo Mor, though many fewer Puffins, but the added attraction of Great and Arctic Skuas. The island is a RSPB reserve with a summer warden and is reached by boat from Tarbet. Between Handa and Point of Stoer to the southwest lies Eddrachillis Bay, studded with islands, which are of little ornithological signi- ficance apart from two Cormorant colonies and an uncertain number of Storm Petrels. An interesting feature of several of these islands and the adjacent mainland cliffs is the number of cliff nesting Herons. There are no large heronries in the west but small groups scattered along the coast from Loch Inchard to the Assynt shore. The visitor to Sutherland may be surprised to see the amount of afforestation in a land once regarded as a treeless 1982 BIRDWATCHING IN SUTHERLAND 117 wet desert. Most is of course coniferous plantation, a source of much criticism; nevertheless new habitats have been created. Short-eared Owls and Hen Harriers have flourished in the early stages. Crossbills and Crested Tits are now estab- lished breeders in some of the older parts, Sparrowhawks have recovered and there are even rumours of Goshawks. The Sutherland birchwoods are still a delight, sometimes appear- ing rather birdless it must be admitted; it needs a sunny day to bring the Wood Warblers into song and a second Brambling nest has yet to be found. Redwings come and go—strangely, many of our nests have been in gardens and rhododendron thickets. One does not have to look far for Greenshanks but Wood Sandpiper has been recorded only from one or two remote and nameless marshy lochs. Red-necked Phalaropes have been seen in similar situations but it seems most unlikely that they are regular breeders. Scoters and Arctic Skuas are very scarce indeed, apart from the established colony of the latter on Handa; Great Skuas have increased remarkably, however, and there are probably several mainland sites in addition to the islands mentioned. No account of Sutherland would be complete without some mention of divers. Redthroats breed on small lochs and tarns throughout the county but there is considerable cause for concern regarding the Blackthroat which prefers larger lochs, many of which are subject to great fluctuations in water level. Anglers cause a lot of disturbance and one of our best known sites has now been abandoned following two successive years‘ robbing by egg collectors. There are plenty of Great Northern Divers on the sea, right into the summer on the west coast, hut they are seldom seen on fresh water and there is no con- firmed breeding record. Where can I see an eagle ? A frequent question, but difficult to answer. Opportunities of seeing eagles from the road are becoming less as fewer of the low ground eyries are now occu- pied. Probably the best bet is along the Strathmore road (Altnaharra to Hope) near the west cliffs of Ben Hope, but even on the high tops it is quite impossible to predict when and where an eagle will appear. This brief sketch tries to give some idea of the variety of habitats in Sutherland, which is a county of great contrasts and superb birdwatching places, some of which can be en- joyed even by those unable (or unwilling !) to walk a step. Ian Durance Pennie, 5 Badcall, Scourie, 1V27 4TH 118 SHORT NOTES 12(4) Short Notes Storm Petrels attacked by Peregrines On 28 July 1981 at 0830 hrs I was releasing ringed Storm Petrels at the pier on an island in the Strathclyde region when I noticed a Peregrine gliding c.60 m above the tidal conver- gence midway between Sanda and Sheep Island. About 90 birds were released and I watched their progress as they flew erratically over the sea towards Sheep Island. Many of the petrels had reached the tidal race c.250 m from the pier and had turned to follow its course into the Sound of Sanda when the Peregrine swooped hard. A ‘kill’ looked certain as the raptor levelled out behind one of the petrels and rapidly over- took it, but just as it was about to be caught the petrel dived into the water and remained submerged for five seconds. The petrel took flight immediately it resurfaced, whilst the Pere- grine mounted quickly to about 30 m. Over the following three minutes the Peregrine stooped at the same petrel about 25 times and on each occasion the victim avoided capture by diving underwater from full flight just as it was about to be seized. The outcome of this incident is unknown as both birds disappeared from view to the West. On 31 July 1981, T. D. Dick, P. Ellis and I had released several Storm Petrels at the pier when we saw two Peregrines leaving the cliffs at the Eastern extremity of the island. We watched the Peregrines and petrels alternately with tripod- mounted telescopes. Both Peregrines took about one minute to station themselves c.50 m above the petrels, which were zigzagging swiftly through the tidal race. The Peregrines employed a co-operative hunting technique and proceeded to stoop in turn at the same victim, which dived obliquely, enter- ing the water with a splash each time one of the Peregrines was about to strike. On each occasion the petrel resurfaced within five seconds and was quickly on the wing again, but eventually it was seized and carried off. Co-operative hunting in pairs by Peregrines has been noted, however it is interesting that it was executed to secure a Storm Petrel which could be termed a difficult species for a single Peregrine to catch, in view of this previously unrecor- ded evasive diving behaviour. The Peregrine’s choice of prey varies with availability and type of habitat and although at least 117 bird species are known to have been taken in Britain, I have been unable to find any reference in the literature which includes Storm Petrel on the prey list. Ep MAGUIRE oe OS gE Og Fe 2 om Ain t mfr e: Sy hg Le \y Bren ade ok a et ee ‘ po? gee MR r yaad g Fie ie sf ig EOF», ef om, \ mae ' we f aig f MA Cl BE we f. Piates 12 (overleaf) & 13. The breeding habitat most favoured by Crested Tits in Scotland (p. 97) is fairly open woodland with well developed shrub and field layers. Nests are generally excavated in dead stumps at least 15 cms. in diameter. Overleaf - R. T. Smith Upper & Lower - M. J. H. Cook EOE eR Aa Dis Piate 14, Internationally significant concentrations of Sanderling (upper) and Ringed Plover (lower) winter on the sandy shores of the Uists (p. 106). S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato Pirate 15. Among Sutherland birds whose status is currently changing (p. 113) are Sparrowhawk—benefiting from extensive conifer planting, and Great Skua—increasing in several areas. Upper - R. 7. Smith Lower - W. S. Paton 1982 SHORT NOTES 119 Common Tern attacking Little Tern chick On the evening of 21st June 1981 my wife and I were watch- ing the mixed Common/Little Tern colony at Tyninghame, East Lothian. A Common Tern was observed flying with a Little Tern chick, a few days old, in its beak. While in flight the Common Tern was mobbed by the parents of the chick until it was dropped. The Little Tern’s parents then offered food to the chick but it did not accept this, and appeared to be injured. Common Terns have been noted attacking Little Tern chicks twice at Titchwell, Norfolk in 1976 (N. Sills pers. comm). In one attack the adult was seen to fly off with the chick but what nappened subsequently was not recorded. The nests of the Common Tern and Little Tern were 35 m apart. Common Terns have not been noted attacking Little Tern chicks at St Cyrus (N. Atkinson pers. comm). Common Terns usually attack intruders such as young gulls, sometimes with fatal results. A. J. CLUNAS Inland colonies of Lesser Black-backed Gull On 23 June 1951 G. L. Sandeman and D. G. Andrew found 150 pairs of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 2-3 pairs of Herring Gulls breeding on Flanders Moss (Scot. Nat. 1951: 196). When I visited the Moss on 27 May 1974 c.500 pairs of Lesser Black- backed Gulls, 50 pairs of Herring Gulls and 500 pairs of Black- headed Gulls were breeding. On 21 May 1975 numbers of Lesser Black-backed and Herring Gulls had increased to 700 pairs and 100 pairs respectively, Black-headed Gulls remained at 500 pairs, and at least 20 pairs of Common Gulls were present. In 1976 a further increase in Lesser Black-backs was noted but the number of Black-headed Gulls was down. No further check was made until 6 May 1981 when it was found that Lesser Black-backs numbered over 1,000 pairs, Herring Gulls were down to 5 pairs, and only 2 pairs of Black-headed Gulls were on their usual nesting area. No Common Gulls were seen on that occasion but on 30 May 1982 10-20 pairs were seen on the northern fringe of the Lesser Black-backed Gull colony, which now numbers well over 1,000 breeding pairs. It seems that the Lesser Black-backed Gull is gradually taking over, and eliminating other gull species from, this inland site. A similar colony of gulls exists on Meall a’Choire Odhair (335m) on the north side of the Braco-Comrie road. Alex Cross of Monifieth visited this site on 23 May 1947 and found Black-headed Gulls breeding and one pair of Herring Gulls 120 SHORT NOTES 12(4) at a nest (Scot. Nat. 1953: 195). On 16 May 1982 I found at least 700-800 pairs of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 6 pairs of Herring Gulls on nests there, and about 200 pairs of Com- mon Gulls breeding 500m to the north-west: no Black-headed Gulls were seen. Quite a lot of shredded polythene is present on the ground around the nests, indicating that the birds are foraging far afield on rubbish dumps; this may account for a number of dead birds in the area. P, W. SANDEMAN St Kilda Gannets in 1980 Murray (1981) estimated the Gannet population of St Kilda, Western Isles to be c.40,000+20% nests in May 1979, and thought that the population had not increased markedly, if at all, since the last full count in 1959 (Boyd 1961). St Kilda has about a fifth to a third of all eastern North Atlantic Gannets, depending on which estimate of the St Kilda population is taken (Dixon 1973, Murray 1981). Any change in numbers there will have a great effect on the calculated rates of change of the total eastern North Atlantic population which was last put at +2.9% per annum (Nelson 1978) based on counts in 1939 and 1969. We visited Boreray, St Kilda in July 1980 to check on Murray’s findings. Table 1. Counts of Gannet nests in four sections of the Boreray gannetry Section 1 2 3 4 Total 1979* 2,663 288 870 1,074 4,895 1980 2,860 298 950 1,192 5,300 *from Murray 1981 Our totals of nests in the four areas counted in both years were on average 7.5% higher in 1980 (table 1) but this differ- ence is well within the normal range of variation of different observers counting the same area at the same time, and the monthly variation in counts of a single colony within a single season (Wanless 1979). The colony extent in 1980 was the same as in 1979 and included the three areas colonised 1959- 79; that is on the landward side of Clagan na Ruskochan (16 and 25 nests in 1979 and 1980 respectively), the northerly tip of Ant Sail and the slight increase in the centre colony on Stac an Armin (712 individuals in 1959, 828 nests in 1979 and 840 in 1980). Thus the colony appears to have shown no great change 1959-80. We examined the contents of 1,680 well-built nests in four parts of the Boreray gannetry and found that 819 (48%) con- 1982 SHORT NOTES 121 Table 2. The proportions of nests containing eggs or chicks in four sections of the gannetry on Boreray in July 1980. Comparable data from 3 sections are given for Ailsa Craig 1974-76 (pers. obs.) Number of Number of % nests with Section nests eggs/chicks eggs/chicks Boreray 1 325 172 53 2 144 39 27 3 553 266 48 4 658 342 52 Ailsa Craig 1 686 446 65 2 544 370 68 3 630 460 73 tained eggs or chicks. This is a far lower proportion than was found on Ailsa Craig in 1974-76 (table 2). Thus the available evidence suggests that the gannetry on St Kilda may have a lower breeding success, and is not increasing at present, in striking contrast to more northern and east coast colonies which are expanding. Other St Kildan seabird populations are either stable or only increasing slowly (Harris & Murray 1979), again in contrast to east coast colonies. Conditions are presum- ably not so good for seabirds off north-west Scotland as they are in the North Sea. References Boyd (J. M.) 1961. The Gannetry of St Kilda. J. Anim. Ecol. 30: 117-136 @ Dixon (T. J.) 1973. Estimates of the numbers of Gannets breeding on St Kilda 1967-1973. Seabird Report 1971: 5-12. HM Harris (M. P.) & Murray (S.) 1979. Birds of St Kilda. [.T.E. Publication, Cambridge. M Murray (S.) 1981. A count of Gannets on Boreray, St Kilda. Scott. Birds 11: 205-211. HM Nelson (J. B.) 1978. The Sulidae. Oxford University Press. HM Wanless (S.) 1979. As- pects of population dynamics and breeding ecology in the Gannet Sula bas- sana (L) of Ailsa Craig. Unpublished PhD thesis, University of Aberdeen. S. WANLESS and V. E. Woop GANNET John Busby 122 REVIEWS 12(4) Reviews Der Zug europaiScher Singvogel: ein Atlas der wiederfunde beringter Vogel, Vol. 3 by Gerhardt Zink, published by Vogelwarte Radolfzell at the Max-Planck Institute, Moggingen, West Germany, 1981; 49 pages text; 51 pp maps; 27 x 36 cm; £16.10. This is the third volume of a series covering European ringing recov- eries of passerines. It is entirely in German and this review is based largely on the maps which are the basis of the book and the part most likely to be consulted by English speaking readers. 25 species are cov- ered: most of the European crows (except Rook, Carrion Crow and Jackdaw), the titmice (except Blue and Great), two Treecreepers, Nut- hatch, Wren, Dipper, four thrushes (Redwing, Mistle Thrush, Ring Ouzel and Rock Thrush) and the two redstarts. When the series was announced it was stated that maps would not be prepared for several common species but it is not clear if the obvious omissions from this volume are to be dealt with later. There are 178 maps in all but several species e.g. the Choughs, Siberian Jay and Crested Tit have either no map or one small summary map, due to the dearth of recoveries over any distance. Several of the species dealt with are relatively sedentary within Britain so it is interesting to see Dippers moving the length of Scandinavia or continental Coal Tits moving ‘as far as Morocco. Perhaps the 25 maps for Redwing will provide the most interesting feature for many British ringers especially as the complex movements of this thrush are soon : ve investigated in a special European-wide co-operative ringing pro- ect. Besides the maps, a written summary and list of literature is provided for all 25 species. It is a great pity that this could not have been in English as well as German : apparently original plans called for an Eng- lish translation but this is now unlikely. For most British ornithologists this means the book will probably be consulted in libraries rather than purchased : it is certainly a monument to the industry of its author and an essential starting point for future research. S. R. D. DA PRATO The Plovers, Sandpipers and Snipes of the World by Paul A. Johnsgard; University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln & London, 1981; 493 pages; 60 colour & 60 monochrome plates; many drawings & maps; 28 x 21 cm; £31.50. This book aimed to cover the biology of shorebirds, but editing has cut it severely. Even in its main area of taxonomy, much of the evidence for conclusions is lacking. Despite lavish physical production, some terms, methods and diagrams are poorly explained. After two chapters on Taxonomy and Evolutionary Relationships, and Reproductive Biology (oddly including long subchapters on ‘Wattle, Spur and Toe Variations in Lapwings’ and ‘Outer Retrix Variations in Snipes’), follows a key to families, subfamilies and tribes. Each species is then described under names; subspecies (usually not described) and range; measurements and weights (but no mention of seasonal variation); de- scription; habitats and food; social behaviour; reproductive biology; status and relationships (mixing conservation and taxonomy). The book concludes with an interesting list of derivatives of scientific names. Population dynamics, migration and moult are not considered, and ecology only peripherally. Events outside the breeding season are not really considered, and the author seems unaware of the large quantity of European work on feeding ecology and behaviour. Maps concern only 1982 REVIEWS 123 breeding distributions. Although Palaearctic winter censuses are men- tioned tor some species, for others we are told that no counts are available. Much space is devoted to drawings which appear to have been taken from skins and show little experience of the birds in the field; they compare poorly with the photographs. There is much repetition, and in- formation is not always under the expected heading; indeed, sections appear to have been written separately. For example, ‘Habitat and Food’ records local concentrations of Ringed Plovers reaching one pair per ha, but less than 20 lines later ‘Social behavior’ reports two studies with contiguous territories each under 30m in diameter. 1 was also surprised to read that, without qualifications, this species is essentially coastal in the breeding season; it is increasing in Britain; and—perhaps most sur- prisingly—that the black of the facial and breast bands is replaced by prown for the early winter! Major discrepancies occur also between introductory and species accounts. This book is intended as a “companion volume” to the author’s Ducks, Geese and Swans of the World. With commendable honesty, Professor Johnsgard admits that he started to study waders only two years before finishing the book. Production of such a volume is a remarkable achieve- ment but the lack of familiarity shows. I cannot recommend this book unless the reader is prepared to use it as an initial source to be checked against other reviews and original sources—and its price tends to dis- courage this. MICHAEL W. PIENKOWSKI A Natural History of Aberdeen by Peter Marren; R. Callander, Finzean, Aberdeenshire, 1982; 184 pages; 17 illustrations and folding map; 22 x 15 cm; £4.95 (soft back). This is an interesting and readable book. The scope is general, but the author is primarily a botanist and his main objective is to trace the changes the growth of the city has wrought on the native flora, since the first books on the subject were written nearly 150 years ago. He is greatly interested in his illustrious predecessors, MacGillivray, Dickie and (especially) Trail. He voices the view that, in this “city-in-bloom”, with miles of rose-beds and millions of daffodils, it is less than enlight- ened to have our dunes, links and estuaries landscaped and formalized too, with their whins, Skylarks, Stonechats and Linnets gone or con- fined to precarious remnants. VERO WYNNE-EDWARDS The Thick-billed Murres of Prince Leopold Island. A study of the breeding ecology of a colonial high arctic seabird. Canadian Wildlife Service Monograph Series - No. 6, by A. J. Gaston & D. N. Nettleship. Supply & Services Canada, Ottawa, 1981, xxvii + 350 pages; many photo- graphs and diagrams; 16 x 24 cm CN$38.40. This is a worthy successor to the first C.W.S. monograph, Tuck’s The Murres. All serious students of seabirds should buy it. It presents the results of. a three-year study, part of a general investigation of the seabirds of Lancaster Sound. The style is succinct and clear and the presentation well-designed. Masses of data are shown in figures and tables, allowing the narrative to flow easily. Methods and potential biases are lucidly explained. An introductory chapter and numerous good colour photographs set the scene well. Besides the usual aspects of breeding biology, particular attention is paid to patterns of colony attendance and to nutrition, Fin- ally, the study is reviewed from a broader perspective. 124 REVIEWS 12(4) This work is an outstanding example of sound descriptive biology, the necessary bedrock on which the theorising that has attracted many of the better minds of biology in recent years must be based. Those res- ponsible for cutting the planned research programme from five years to three have done science a great disservice, to which the great service done by the research team should not blind us. JEREMY J. D. GREENWOOD Vanishing Eagles by Philip Burton, illustrated by Trevor Boyer. Daleguild for Kagle Star Insurance, London, 1982. 140 pp, 30 full page colour sag Sid other illustrations, some in colour, and maps, 37 x 48 cm. £9.95. A selection of 30 of the world’s eagles, mostly those which glared from insurance company posters at public transport users, are gathered here with a text on each species. Trevor Boyer’s plates vary from splendid to disappointing; designs and styles effective as large posters have sometimes not reduced happily to book plates. His supporting illus- trations are splendid, as are Mike Long’s habitat drawings. Philip Burton’s text is a readable compilation from the main sources, especially Leslie Brown, and is enhanced by his own cosmopolitan field experience. Some statements are questionable; few Golden Eagles are now shot from air- craft in Texas and immigrant birds there may include many from the arctic. The range maps ignore recent findings, such as widely scattered breeding by Verreaux’s Eagle in the Middle East. An attractive and reasonably priced book (with too many creased pages in the review copy) for a place between the coffee table and the library shelf. The eagles are indeed vanishing and books like this may help to bring the message home but they prompt the thought that we spend too much on books and too little on action. DOUGLAS WEIR The Spur Book of Countryside Conservation by Kev Reynolds. Spurbooks, Edinburgh 1982. 64 pages; 13 plain illustrations; 18 x 12 cm. £1.25 (soft back). A small book inadequately tackling a big subject. It attempts to fire the emotions and stimulate active involvement. Its outline of the current major problems and their histories is superficial and lacking in hard facts. It concentrates on practical habitat management and the work of the BTCV, which will be useful to the very keen, but fails to point out many of the obvious ways in which everyone can contribute. The legis- lation is dismissed in less than a page without mention of birds or hab- itats, the coverage of the roles of the statutory and voluntary bodies is inadequate and the list of conservation societies in the appendix is in- complete and out of date. PETE ELLIS Thorburn’s Landscape—The Major Natural History Paintings by John Southern; Elm Tree Books, London; 120 pp, 52 colour and 12 plain plates; £12.50. In this book John Southern, curator of the Thorburn Museum at Lis- keard, presents fifty of the larger and less familiar bird and animal- inhabited landscapes of this popular Master. These range from the amber snows of Gaik to the Surrey woods and seashore, and have such subtlety of background that one could wish the departure of an _ over-sharp 1982 REVIEWS 125 pheasant—but would Thorburn’s sporting patrons have appreciated them minus quarry ? The most natural composition is the youthful Mallard family. For the rest, high drama is never far away. Mr Southern, who contributes an excellent essay on the artist, also describes the paintings in prose which matches the Victorian spirit of the pictures but serves to distance Thorburn from today’s experience of nature. Despite this the book is welcome, and though the plates occasionally suffer from a red bias, and an 8-inch picture is shown the same size as one 4-foot long, it is very good value. JOHN BUSBY The Life of Birds by J. C. Welty; Holt-Saunders, Eastbourne, 1982; 754 pages; many plain photos and diagrams; £19.95. This revision of Professor Welty’s well-known book is to be welcomed. It is written at a level suitable for the beginner in ornithology lacking formal biological training. As well as the anatomy and physiology of birds, it covers their behaviour, life-histories, ecology, and evolution. Particular attention is paid to flight and migration, in which birds are, of course, specialists. The only major areas not covered by the book are embryology and genetics. Apart trom a few American colloquialisms and the occasionally un- necessary use of technical terms, this bOOK 1s Well written. ‘the design and presentation are good. Unfortunately, while the book presents an array of facts in a well- organised tashion, it does not clearly present many of the broad prin- cipies underlying these facts. Since facts are always easier to assimilate when supported on a framework of principles, and since it is the formula- tion of expianatory principles that distinguishes science from stamp- collecting, this is a serious weakness. The chapter on evolution, the greatest of all biological principles, is the weakest part of the book. In summary, this book is a useful source of facts about birds but does little to promote a full understanding of ornithological science. JEREMY J. D. GREENWOOD Swallows by Peter Tate; Witherby, London, 1981; 96 pages; drawings (by Alan Harris); £5.95. Of its main three sections the first, Breeding and Behaviour, gathers together, in a non-scientific format, information on population size, nest building, incubation, feeding, brooding and growth, and highlights some of the as yet unanswered questions on mating, incubation and voice. The Migration section gives a succinct account and incorporates comment upon theories of passage, wintering and navigational techniques. The final section, Legend and Literature, presents an enjoyable collection of swallow-lore. The book is no monograph. It is “intended for all who see and admire swallows”. My disappointment was in its lack of a key within the text to the main sources listed. For many, however, it will make easy and enjoyable reading, while the illustrations by Alan Harris capture twenty- one episodes of this beautiful bird’s life-style. D. McGINN 126 REVIEWS 12(4) Birds in Medieval Manuscripts by Brunsdon Yapp; The British Library, pono 1981; 190 pages, 60 black and white figures, 48 colour plates; This beautifully illustrated book is the happy consequence of a retired zoologist’s interest in medieval illustration. The manuscripts consulted, nearly 500 of them, are predominantly English, but Dr Yapp saw enough French material to become convinced that for accuracy of ornithological observation the English were often superior. The birds most often illus- trated are cranes, herons, storks, geese, Peacocks, domestic fowl, doves, eagles, hawks and a variety of passerines ranging from Goldfinches and Great Tits to Hooded Crows and Wrens. Much of the best must have been drawn from life rather than (as art historians have often assumed) just copied from earlier models : the author says of the birds in the Alphonso Psalter (pre-1284) ‘I do not think such good pictures were drawn again until the nineteenth century’. Altogether, a must for those interested in the history of bird illustration. T. C. SMOUT Seasonal Movements of Summer Migrants by Nick Riddiford and Peter Findley. B.T.O. Guide 18; 84 pages; £1.75. Compiled wholly from the records of nine selected Bird Observatories around Britain, this guide examines 39 summer migrants, mainly using data covering the years 1974-78 inclusive. The guide provides information on the timing of summering species entering and leaving Britain, pres- ented in the form of histograms, and enables the major periods of visible migration to be checked at a glance, A page of text is devoted to each set of nine histograms; this describes the patterns of migration for each species, and includes paragraphs summarising breeding range and British status and winter range. Scottish records are solely from Fair Isle; sadly, Isle of May data were not included, although readily available in past reports for that Observatory. However it is reassuring to know that summer starts on 1 March and ends on 30 November ! B. ZONFRILLO Current literature Articles and reports on the status and distribution of birds in Scotland are listed here. Strictly biological studies such as ecology or behaviour are excluded and so are references from the widely read journals British Birds, Bird Study, Ringing and Migration and Ibis. Most items listed and many others are available for reference in the club library and we are grateful to the contributors. The library welcomes copies of work on any ornithological subject. The feeding distribution of birds on sea lochs in the Clyde sea area in 1979. (68 pp). J. B. Halliday, Dept. of Biology, Paisley College of Technology. St Abb’s Head seabird sample counts in 1981—4th year results. (26 pp). C. E. Hellawell, C. O. Badenoch & S. R. Warman 1981. Nature Conservancy Council. Perthshire Peregrines in 1981. (4 pp). P. K. Stirling-Aird 1982. Old Kippenross, Dunblane, Perthshire FK15 0LQ. Forth Islands bird counts in 1981. R. W. J. Smith 1982. Edin. Nat. Hist. Soc. Jnl. for 1981; 16-17. Young Cuckoo’s interesting food ee and frogs]. D. McDougall 1982. Edin- burgh Nat. Hist. Soc. Jnl. for 1981: 26-27. 1982 CURRENT LITERATURE 127 Seabird movement at coastal sites around Great Britain and Ireland in 1978 to 1980. (78 pp). P. H. Jones & M. L. Tasker 1982. Nature Conservancy Council & Seabird Group. £2 post free from authors, 17 Rubislaw Terrace, Aberdeen AB1 1XE. Colonsay, Jura and the Garvellachs: 1981 expedition results. (14 pp). S. Bond et al. (no date). Brathay Exploration Group, Brathay Centre for Explora- tion and Field Studies, Old Brathay, Ambleside, Cumbria. Ayrshire Bird Report for 1981. (32 pp). A. Hogg (ed) 1982. £1.25 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Preliminary estimates of the number of Waders wintering in the Outer Hebrides. N. E. Buxton 1982. Wader Study Group Bull. 35: 6-7. Lothian Bird Report for 1980. (45 pp). G. F. Bell et al. 1982. £1.50 inc. postage from 434 Lanark Rd, Edinburgh EH13 ONJ. Midlothian, West Lothian and Forth Islands Bird Report for 1981. (35 pp). A. W. & L. M. Brown 1982. (Not for distribution). Clyde Area Bird Report for 1978-80. (45 pp). I. P. Gibson (ed) 1982. £1 inc. postage, from Renfrew District Council Museums Service, High St, Paisley, Renfrewshire PAl 2BA. Orkney Bird Report for 1981. (62 pp). C. Booth et al. 1982. £1.75 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Winter occupation of breeding territories and winter diet of Peregrines in South Scotland. R. Mearns 1982. Ornis Scand. 13: 79-83. Wick High School Bird Report for 1981. (43 pp). D. Leith (ed). 75p incl. postage from Wick High School, West Banks Ave, Wick, Caithness KWl 5LU. The effects of the severe weather in December 1981 and January 1982 on Waders in Britain. N. A. Clark 1982. Wader Study Group Bull. 34: 5-7. Loch Lomond Bird Report for 1981. (18 pp). J. Mitchell (Comp.) 1982. Nature Conservancy Council. The breeding bird community of Inchmoan, Loch Lomond in 1979-80. (14 pp). C. M. Waltho 1982. Nature Conservancy Council. Wetland birds of the Balmore Haughs and surrounding area [near Glasgow]. (8 pp). B. Zonfrillo 1982. Nature Conservancy Council. Notes on the Hen Harrier in the Loch Lomond area. J. Mitchell 1980. Western Naturalist 9: 3-8. 1981 Census of breeding Waders on the Ring Point Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. (2 pp). J. Mitchell 1981. Nature Conservancy Council. Moult in the Sparrowhawk {in south Scotland]. I. Newton & M. Marquiss 1982. Ardea 70: 163-172. Breeding behaviour, productivity and survival of colonial and non-colonial Shelducks [in the Firth of Forth]. M. W. Pienkowski & P. R. Evans 1982. Ornis Scand. 13: 101-116. Report on the breeding success of the Peregrine in the Loch Lomond/Tros- sachs area of Scotland in 1981. (7 pp). J. Mitchell 1982. Nature Conservancy Council. Hebridean Naturalist no. 6. (58 pp). J. A. Crummy (ed) 1982. Includes ‘Birds of the Outer Hebrides in 1981’, ‘Small Petrel studies on North Rona’, etc. £2.25 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Forth Naturalist and Historian vol. 6. (130 pp). Univ. Stirling and Central Regional Council, Stirling, 1982. Includes ‘Forth area bird report (Clacks, Stirling, SW Perth) for 1980’ and ‘Nocturnal migration in SW and C Scotland detected by moonwatching’. £2 post free from SOC Bird Book- shop. A Report on the wintering and one mortality incident among Whooper Swans (Cygnus cygnus) on the River Teviot, Roxburgh. C. O. Badenoch 1982. History of the Berwickshire Naturalists’ Club 41: 221-226. Notes on the breeding of the Buzzard in Kintyre. E. J. Maguire 1979. Western Naturalist 8: 3-18. The breeding birds of the Clyde area—Supplementary notes. J. A. Gibson 1979. Western Naturalist 8: 27-45. 128 CURRENT LITERATURE 12(4) Autumn Waders in the Outer Hebrides. R. W. Summers & N. E. Buxton 1979. Western Naturalist 8: 15-82. Caerlaverock Bird Report for 1981. (13 pp). M. Wright 1982. Nature Conser- vancy Council. Notices BRANCH SECRETARY New Galloway Will members please note that, following the very sad death of the secretary, Dr Grace Fleming, in September, the new secretary is Miss J. E. Howie, 60 Main Street, St John’s Town of Dalry, Kirkcudbrightshire. LOCAL RECORDERS : Pigeee note the following change in the list published in the autumn journal : ee (except Fair Isle) D. Coutts, ‘Da Knowe’, Twageos Road, Ler- wic WILDFOWL COUNTS Please note the following omission from the list published in the autumn journal, and change of address for the Argyllshire organiser : Dunbartonshire, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire R. A. Jeffrey, la High Cal- side, Paisley, Renfrewshire. Argyllshire and Inner Hebrides (South) S. Newton, 11 Jameson Place, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 8NZ. 1981 SCOTTISH BIRD REPORT Publication of the 1981 SBR has unfortunately been delayed and it will not now be available until early 1983. It will be priced at £1.25 (post free) to members and £1.75 (post free) to non-members. WHOoPER Swan’ Donald Watson 1982 NOTICES 129 ABERDEEN BRANCH - EXCURSIONS The following excursions are planned. For further details please contact the Outings Secretary, L. D. Steele, 15 Gladstone Place, Queens Cross, Aberdeen AB1 6UX (tel. 0224 322 532). Sunday 12 December 1982 GLEN DYE. Meet Feughside Hotel car park 10 a.m. Sunday 23 January 1983 Rivers DON, DEE and GIRDLENESS. Meet Bridge of Don 10 a.m. Sunday 20 February MONTROSE BASIN. Sunday 20 March GLENTANAR and DINNET. April GLEN GAIRN and INSH MARSHES. May ISLE OF MAY. June ANGUS GLEN. ABERDEEN BRANCH LIBRARY Aberdeen branch has a library which has been inactive for a number of years, and it is proposed to reactivate it. Unfortunately a number of books are missing which the borrower has forgotten to return; some of these would be of great interest to members, such as Baxter & Rintoul’s The Birds of Scotland. Anyone who has any Aberdeen branch book in their possession is asked to return it direct to Alistair Duncan, 12 Cairn- cry Avenue, Aberdeen (0224 43717), or pass it through the SOC office in Edinburgh if that is easier. The name of the borrower will not be divulged, or the book can be posted anonymously ! BTO Mute Swan Census 1983 The BTO is undertaking a Mute Swan Census in April/May 1983 and the intention is to obtain complete cov- erage of Britain. The SOC has agreed to co-operate in organising the census in Scotland and the Scottish organisers will be A. W. and L. M. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 ONB. Further details including a list of local organisers will appear in the Spring 1983 issue of the Journal. East Scotland Mute Swan Study Mute Swans have been colour-ringed in Fast Scotland this year as part of a three year project to study the breeding success of local pairs, the dispersal of cygnets and the move- ment of swans to and from moulting sites. White rings with black num- hers (read from the foot upwards) have been used and reports of sight- ings, including date, location, grid reference and ring number should be forwarded to Dr C. J. Spray, Culterty Field Station, Newburgh, Ellon, Aberdeenshire, AB4 OAA. British Birds The form giving details of the reduced subscription to SOC members was not ready for posting with the autumn journal; it is en- closed with this issue. Natural History Collections Research The Council for Museums and Galleries in Scotland has set up a Collections Research Unit to compile and publish a register of botanical, zoological and geological collections in Scotland, as part of a scheme to register the whereabouts of natural history collections throughout Britain. This will facilitate the study of Scotland’s natural history by providing researchers and naturalists with a means of rapidly locating collections relevant to their studies. Infor- mation is already being collected from museums, universities, colleges and schools, but it is hoped to include details of collections held by pri- vate individuals or societies. 130 NOTICES 12(4) A ‘collection’ can be anything from a few rocks to a herd of elephants, and if there are accompanying records or notes all the better. Older collections often lie dormant in attics, their true scientific value unrecog- nised by their owners. Unless details of such collections are made avail- able to other naturalists, valuable collections are effectively lost to science. If you own or know of any such collections and you think their existence should be recorded, please contact us at the address below. Details of the location and ownership of collections can be withheld from the Catalogue on request to preserve the confidentiality of valuable private collections. Please write to: The Council for Museums and Galleries in Scotland (NSCRU), 20/22 Torphichen Street, Edinburgh EH3 8JB. Colour marked Herons A number of nestling Herons in Fife and East Perthshire have been fitted with wing tags of various colours, each tag in addition bearing an individual code number. In Aberdeenshire nestling herons have been colour ringed above the knee joint. Anyone seeing a marked bird please take note of the colours (and if possible the numbers) on both wings and inform either : Mick Marquiss, Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Bush Estate, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0QB (telephone outside working hours: Inverkeithing 412712) or Keith Brockie, Gardener’s Cot- tage, Millhill House, Inchture, Perthshire (telephone Inchture 774). The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club REPORT OF COUNCIL For Year to 30 June 1982 General In common with many similar organisations, the club found the past year particularly difficult with recession affecting membership and sales. For only the second time in the past 15 years bookshop sales decreased and resulted in a slightly lower surplus than last year; the previous decrease was in 1970. Also, while there was an increase in total membership, it was very small compared with the previous year and indicates a need for vigorous efforts to recruit members in 1982/83 following the increase in subscription rates. Membership On 30 June 1982 the club had 2936 members, a net inerease of 22. 327 new members joined during the year, 80 less than last year, of whom 43 were juniors and 18 children nominated for family member- ship; 16 existing members took out life membership. 362 paid the re- duced rate for pensioners. In the table family members are counted as two people; nominated children pay no subscription. Year to 30 June 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 Honorary 1 1 1 5 6 5 Life 29 49 51 58 62 84 Ordinary 2536 2572 2357 2387 2555 2570 Junior 282 271 211 208 211 195 Nominated children 98 87 82 74 80 82 2946 2980 2702 2732 2914 2936 +128 +34 —278 +30 +182 +22 1982 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 131 Covenants The revenue from covenanted subscriptions continues to in- increase in spite of the reduction in the number of covenants, which fell from 776 to 717 covering 854 members. The decrease in covenants is due to the number which completed their seven year term and were not renewed until the increase in subscription took place; this will be re- flected in the total increase next year. The value to the club of this source of income is considerable. Council is extremely grateful to those who do help in this way, and encourages those who do not have a coven- ant to sign one which, under the new regulations, can now last for only four years. Deaths Council records with deep regret the deaths during the year of Alastair Anderson, and William Brotherston an honorary member whose obituary appeared in Scottish Birds 11: 265. Finance Two items in particular contributed to the very large deficit : the reduction by £148 in the bookshop surplus and a large increase in the cost of running the Scottish Centre. The extent of the former could not be forecast, but it was appreciated that when the two basement rooms at 21 Regent Terrace were taken into use by the club, there would be extra cost in rates, heating and, this year, furnishing and new equip- ment for the rooms. Other items have shown a commendable reduction in cost or a welcome increase in income, though the sale of Scottish Birds suffered from the same effect of the recession as the bookshop. The deficit will hopefully be stemmed by the increase in subscription rates, but careful budgetting, coupled with good marketing to increase book- shop sales and efforts to increase membership at all branches, will be needed. On the recommendation of our Auditors, Council agreed to transfer annually 10% of the Life Membership Fund to subscription in- come. George Waterston Memorial Fund Donations, accrued interest, and a very successful series of film shows at seven branches, brought the total in this fund to just over £5000. Details of the film shows are given in Scottish Birds 12: 95. Council records its thanks to Mr Chris Mylne for presenting the enjoyable and successful evenings; many members at the branches concerned are also thanked for their help in organising the events. After consulting members through their branch representatives, council agreed to donate two hides in memory of George Waterston; one to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and one to the Scottish Wildlife Trust at their reserves at Vane Farm, Loch Leven, Kinross, and the Montrose Basin, Angus, respectively. Both were due to be opened in the autumn. A decision had still to be made on the use of the remaining funds. Branches In spite of the very severe weather conditions during the win- ter, the majority of evening lectures took place as scheduled though numbers attending were at times understandably reduced. Council thanks all the speakers who gave their time so generously to lecture at the evening meetings, and pays a special tribute to those who braved terrible conditions during the worst of the winter and arrived on time to give their talks. Only six of the 75 lectures had to be called off and two of these were rescheduled for a later date; a truly remarkable demonstration of dedication for which members and council alike are extremely grateful. Summer and winter excursions were once again arranged by branches for the enjoyment of all members, and the education of those new to birdwatching. This is an important aspect of branch activities and is undoubtedly a valuable way of encouraging and retaining new members. 132 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(4) There has been a weekend excursion to the Solway, based on the County Hotel, Dumfries, each year since 1960, and it was with considerable regret that the weekend had to be cancelled in 1982. The decision of the owner to close the Hotel at the end of January came too late for suitable alter- native arrangements to be made, but it is hoped to find somewhere else Lo revive this enjoyable weekend in future years. Annual conference The 34th annual conference and 45th annual general meeting were held in the Marine Hotel, North Berwick. The hotel was once more filled to capacity and the warm welcome and friendliness of its staff ensured that the weekend was enjoyed by all who attended. An account appeared in Scottish Birds 12: 29. Scottish Birds and the Scottish Bird Report Four issues of the journal with 152 pages of plates and text, and the index to volume 11, were published during the year, and the 1980 SBR was published in time for the conterence. Council takes this opportunity to thank all those who contributed to the journal and who sent records to local recorders for the annual bird report; in particular it thanks all those responsible for their production including the recorders, referees and editors. Research and fieldwork Club members have given support to a number of research projects during the past year. Outstanding among these has been the wader breeding survey which is being organised in Scotland by Hector Galbraith and Bob Furness. Other surveys include the Wild- iowl Trust’s goose and wildfowl counts, the RSPB beached bird survey, the BTO common bird census and nest record scheme, and the start of its very important Winter Atlas. The latter, which is to cover three years, started in what was probably the worst winter in memory and it will be of considerable interest to observe any changes which may occur during the next two winters. Conservation The outcome of the public enquiry into the development of ski-ing facilities in the Cairngorms, reported last year, is still awaited, and also a decision about the route tor power lines trom Torness power station in East Lothian. A letter was sent to the Department of the En- vironment to express the concern of the club and its members that the new Wildlife Inspector, appointed to police the laws in the 1982 Wildlite and Countryside Act, shouid be linked to the British Field Sports Society for administrative purposes. It was considered that naturalists would be more likely to give full support to the Inspector if he was appointed directly by the Nature Conservancy Council or worked with the RSPB. an official repiy is stili awaited. Endowment fund It was reported last year that the fund was to receive a one-sixth share of the Gunn estate. In addition to the £2500 received last year, a further £5650 has been received and a small balance is still to come when the estate is finally wound up. Interest now accruing to this fund enables council to award more and larger grants than formerly, and from the 17 applications it awarded 14 totalling £1915; subsequently one could not be taken up and another has been held over until next year. The following grants were made totalling £1665: £50 to Chris Booth towards costs of seabird surveys around Orkney; £50 to Andrew Ramsay and Bob Hogarth to study Tysties and Storm Petrels on Auskerry, Orkney; £50 to David Budworth for a seabird survey on Sule Skerry; £100 to Bob Swann and Andrew Ramsay towards costs of their long term seabird studies on Canna; £100 to Keith Brockie and Mike Nicholl for their continuing studies of breeding Herons on Tayside; £100 to Graham 1982 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 133 Rebecca for Merlin studies in the Grampian region; £100 to the Grampian and Tay Ringing Groups towards their costs studying Purple Sandpipers in Norway; £150 to Chris Spray for his work on Mute Swan movements in east Scotland; £150 to Bob Furness monitoring seabird populations on Foula; £200 to Ron Summers to carry out wader population studies in Orkney; £215 to Hector Galbraith towards the costs of organising the Wader Breeding Survey in Scotland; and £400 to the Isle of May Bird Observatory towards the cost of replacing the Bain Trap. Short reports from all recipients of a grant from the fund are now published in the journal; those for 1981 appeared in Scottish Birds 12: 61. Waterston Library In addition to the £250 allocation from general funds, some further money obtained from the sale of duplicate books was spent on the purchase of books and journals and on tne binding of journals. Aimost 100 journals are received on exchange making an extremely useful addition to the reference library, Bookshop Sales just exceeded £89,000. Although this was less than last year the profit on sales showed a marginal increase which was very creditable in these difficult times. Many customers come to the book- shop when visiting Edinburgh, and it is a particular pleasure to meet those from overseas. Council is most grateful to the BTO for its invita- tion to take books to its annual conference in December at the Swan- wick Conference Centre. Scottish Centre Although bookshop sales were marginally less than last year, the amount of stock held at 21 Regent Terrace increased. This, combined with an increase in staff last year, meant that more space was needed and the basement rooms, formerly leased to other organisations, were taken back into use in July 1981. Members visiting the Centre will have noticed changes in staff locations which took place in the autumn. Many visiting birdwatchers were welcomed throughout the year, and postal enquiries answered. The council and its committees continued to meet in the building, and it has been used for informal meetings organ- ised by the Edinburgh branch during the winter. These have become in- creasingly popular. Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust, and the Isle of May Bird Observatory and Field Station Committee, both held their meetings in the Centre during the year. Club representation Continued service on two committees by three club members is recorded with gratitude. Frank Hamilton and Dr Derek Langslow serve on the British Section of the International Council for Bird Preservation, and Bede Pounder is a member of the Duck Working Group of the International Wildfowl Research Bureau. Staff No new member joined the staff but Mr David Bates left the club’s employment during May. His work as editor of the journal is being carried out by the editorial committee under its chairman, Miss Valerie Thom, until a new editor is appointed. Council is extremely grateful to Miss Thom and all the committee members for their help. It is hoped to appoint a bookshop manager/assistant secretary in the autumn. Acknowledgments Many members contribute to the organisation of branches and serve on committees of the club, as well as those who make arrangements for meetings and excursions, and Council takes this opportunity to thank them all for their work during the year. In addition Council records its gratitude to all those who have spent time compiling and editing records for Scottish Birds and the annual bird report. The 134 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(4) council would like to acknowledge the efforts of all those members of staff who have worked loyally on the club’s behalf. The members of the council were heartened by the secretary’s return to good health and look forward to his continued well being. For the Council, IVAN T. DRAPER, President. Revenue account for the year ended 30 June 1982 Year to Year to INCOME 30/6/82 30/6/81 Subscriptions, including transfer from Lite Membership Fund . on ... £12963 £12075 Income tax on covenanted subscriptions aes 3 1750 1730 Dividends and interest (gross) ; ir Po 793 942 Surplus on bookshop (sales £89059) sie ... 22036 22184 Advertising revenue—‘“Scottish Birds’ nes site 1501 1284 Sale of “Scottish Birds” eis Pe 877 1054 Sundry sales less peace (ties, etc.) ies aoe 50 77 Donations sae sist Her siete sis 150 V2 Raffle see mee wee ate Ha 667 595 V.A.T. recovered — as ses ase see ae —_ 89 EXPENDITURE Branch expenses including lectures ae sS2/ £1628 £1699 Travel expenses for council members and delegates to conferences Aye as Ae 896 1026 Secretarial and editorial expenses ths ... 27694 23751 Office expenses ; 3071 2598 Scottish Centre for Ornithology ‘and Bird Protection : Club’s share of running expenses : 3931 2273 Library books and binding Hike gh a 251 506 Publishing “Scottish Birds” ee sine ae 6226 6185 Publishing Scottish Bird Report. ie Hes 760 1256 Expenses in production of 1980 SBR £117 Less contribution from “Scottish Birds” Appeal Fund na sei ae £117 Reprinting back numbers of “Scottish Birds’ _... —_— 801 Loss on conference... ue ne sce 117 134 Subscriptions to other Societies if ie ae 85 94 V.A.T. not reclaimable a ber ‘isis re 68 69 44727 40392 Excess of Expenditure over Income _... aah ale 3940 235 1982 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Balance Sheet as at 30 June 1982 FUNDS OF THE CLUB Accumulated surplus from peo aa Subtract deficit for year Life membership fund “Scottish Birds” Appeal Fund Library fund George Waterston Memorial fund REPRESENTED BY Cash in hand and at bank Cash in Dunfermline Building Society Bookshop stock Tie, badge, car sticker "& notelet stock Debts due to club 43 Due from Endowment fund Investments at cost as below Less Subscriptions paid in aavante Debts due by club ‘ Due to Endowment fund — TOTAL NET ASSETS Investments as at 30 June 1982 Safeguard Industrial Investments Ltd.— 875 Ord. shares of 25p each _... £2100—10% Treasury Stock 1983 £109 14128 1030 Year to 30/6/82 £11107 3940 Market At value £936 2053 £2989 cost £508 1998 £2506 135 Year to 30/6/81 12876 £20661 [=o 136 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(4) Endowment Fund (The free income of which is available for the advancement of ornithology) Revenue account for the year ended 30 June 1982 30/6/82 30/6/81 INCOME Interest and dividends received (gross) _... ... £1537 £1011 EXPENDITURE Grants as detailed in Report of Council... bec 1665 795 Excess of expenditure for year +s sal ee £128 (£216) frer-t oi 2s il aa Balance Sheet as at 30 June 1982 Endowment fund as at 30 June Ait wee .. £6061 £3561 Add Donations aaa van is ae 5650 2500 11711 6061 Accumulated revenue as at 30 June 1981 Lae 2692 2243 Excess of income for year... aw’ Ae _— 216 Grants refunded sae ees ee ae == 240 Gain on redeemed stock ais = 81 General No. 2 account : donations and interest 10055 2556 24458 11397 Less Excess of expenditure for year ae 128 — Decrease in cost value of investments. Poe — 88 £24330 £11309 Made up of: Investments at cost as below aes ee ... £3063 £3063 Dunfermline Building Sore Capital account es : aes «at veh 6907 2906 General No. 1 account sa ak ae As 3677 2940 General No. 2 account : ae See ben 9853 2556 Due by Club’s general funds nee ae Aa 1030 — 24530 11465 Less Grant allocated but not yet paid he ee 200 100 Due to Club’s general funds __... oe se — 56 1982 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 137 Investments as at 30 June 1982 Market At At value cost cost £1220—91% Treasury Stock 1983 .. £1186 £1140 £1140 £352 British Printing Corporation—74% Non Cumulative Preference shares £1 95 353 353 500 St Andrew Trust Ordinary 25p re 800 570 570 1952 M & G Equity Investment for Charities 3328 1000 1000 £5283 £3063 £3063 Bass deco a) <7 EDINBURGH, 2lst September 1982.—I have audited the foregoing revenue accounts for the year to 30 June 1982, and the balance sheets as at that date. I have accepted as correct subscriptions and other receipts shown as received in the books and the value placed on the bookshop stock. I certify that in my opinion the foregoing accounts are correctly stated and sufficiently vouched. (Signed) ROBERT CAVEN, Chartered Accountant. COUNCIL AND OFFICIALS OF THE CLUB FOR SESSION 46 Hon. Presidents Sir Charles G. Connell WS, LL D, FRSE; Sir Arthur B. Duncan; W. J. Eggeling, CBE, BSc, FRSE; Professor V. C. Wynne- Edwards CBE, LL D, MA, D Sc, D Univ, FRS, FRSC, FRSE, F I Biol. President Dr Ivan T. Draper. Vice-President John M. S. Arnott. Law Agent D. G. Andrew WS. Council (elected at AGM) R. A. Broad, A. W. Brown, Dr D. M. Bryant, D. L. Clugston, R. W. Forrester, Mrs H. Halliday, R. H. Hogg, M. B. Ross, B. J. Stewart, Dr I. R. Taylor. Young members (elected by Coun- cil) L. Steele, A. Williams. Branch Representatives (elected by their Branch) B. J. Stewart (Aber- deen); R. H. Hogg (Ayr); M. B. Ross (Borders); R. T. Smith (Dumfries); Dr K. M. Watson (Dundee); P. R. G. Marriott (Edinburgh); Dr J. T. Knowler (Glasgow); R. A. Rroad (Inverness); Mrs H. Halliday (New Galloway); P. K. Kinnear (St Andrews); H. Robb (Stirling). STAFF Secretary, Treasurer and Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe. Bookshop Manager/Assistant Secretary Miss M. R. Doran. Membership Secretary Mrs R. D. Smillie. Hon. Treasurer and Librarian W. G. Harper. Bookshop and Clerical Mrs H. L. Harper, Mrs D. J. Ridley, Miss H. Barul, A. G. MacKay. BRANCH OFFICE-BEARERS Aberdeen Chairman, S. M. D. Alexander; Vice-Chairman, L. Steele; Sec- retary, D. J. Bain; S. T. Buckland, A. Duncan, J. A. England, Miss M. C. Hartnoll, W. G. D. Hendrickson. 138 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(4) Ayr Chairman, D. A. Smith; Vice-Chairman, Dr R. Hissett; Secretary, B. C. Forrester; Committee, J. Burton, Mrs J. Burton, Mrs E. M. Hissett, Major N. A. D. McCance, G. Riddle. Borders Chairman and Secretary, M. B. Ross; Vice-Chairman, A. J. Suh; Committee, A. Buckham, T. D. Dobson, R. D. Murray, Mrs E. oss. Dumfries Chairman, Dr N. E. Armstrong; Vice-Chairman, Dr E. C. Fel- lowes; Secretary, J. W. Barclay; Committee, Miss A. MacDonald, T. Shannan, R. T. Smith, R. M. Wright. Dundee Chairman, B. Pounder; Vice-Chairman, R. M. Corbett; Secretary, Dr K. M. Watson; Committee, B. Boag, F. V. Ellmore, Miss S. Laing, Mrs A. Noltie. Edinburgh Chairman, P. W. G. Marriott; Vice-Chairman, W. G. Prest; Secretary, Miss J. A. Wilcox; Committee, G. F. Bell, Mrs P. D. Black, Mrs L. M. Brown, Mrs E. Ferro. Glasgow Chairman, Dr J. T. Knowler; Vice-Chairman, Dr I. T. Draper; Secretary, S. N. Denney; Committee, Dr R. W. Furness, H. Galbraith, I. P. Gibson, C. E. Palmar. Inverness Chairman, R. L. Swann; Vice-Chairman, R. A. Broad; Secretary, Mrs S. E. A. Moore; Committee, J. Carruthers, R. H. Dennis, S. C. Dun- net, Miss M. I. MacDougall, I. A. Wylie. New Galloway Chairman, Mrs H. S. C. Halliday; Vice-Chairman, Admiral Sir Nigel Henderson; Secretary, Miss J. E. Howie; Committee, R. K. Peace, R. E. S. Wass, Mrs J. Yeo. St Andrews P. K. Kinnear; Vice-Chairman, Dr R. W. Byrne; Secretary, Miss D. E. Rowling; Committee, K. Brockie, Mrs W. E. Mattingley, Lt Cdr E. F. B. Spragge, D. R. Stuart. Stirling Chairman, H. Robb; Vice-Chairman, C. E. Barth; Secretary, D. Thorogood; Committee, W. R. Brackenridge, J. Gearing, R. L. Gooch, Miss M. H. Knox. Thurso Chairman, Mrs P. M. Collett; Secretary, S. Laybourne. Wigtown Chairman, Dr P. G. Hopkins; Secretary, G. Sheppard; Com- mittee, J. H. Hollands, D. L. Irving, D. J. Mould, D. J. Rennie, G. Shaw. COMMITTEES Management Dr I. T. Draper (Chairman), D. G. Andrew, J. M. S. Arnott, D. L. Clugston, B. J. Stewart. Library D. L. Clugston (Chairman), Ritchie Seath (Hon. Librarian), Dr J. J. D. Greenwood, P. W. G. Marriott, Dr I. D. Pennie, Mrs M. I. Waterston. Editorial Miss V. M. Thom (Chairman), J. M. S. Arnott, R. H. Dennis, Dr R. W. Furness, F. D. Hamilton, S. R. D. da Prato, D. A. Smith. Research Dr I. R. Taylor (Chairman), A. W. Colling, R. H. Dennis, H. Galbraith, Dr J. J. D. Greenwood, Dr D. R. Langslow, J. A. Love, M. Marquis. CLUB REPRESENTATION British Section, International Council for Bird Preservation : F. D. Ham- ilton, Dr D. R. Langslow. International Wildfowl Research Bureau, Duck Working Group: B. Poun- der. HONORARY MEMBERS Dr John Berry, Maxwell Hamilton, Dr Ian Pennie, Mrs Irene Waterston, Donald Watson. 1982 BRANCH NEWS 139 Branch News The New Galloway branch had a happy winter session (1981-82), with an average of 26 members attending. There was a boost to 47 in Feb- ruary when members from Dumfriesshire and Wigtownshire joined the group. The session began with contributions by local members. Mr Donald Watson gave interesting notes on his report “Birds in Galloway, 1980”. Dr and Mrs Halliday, Dr Grace Fleming and Miss Joan Howie showed film slides including alpine swifts, waxwings and ospreys. A Scandinavian osprey had been caught in a net at a local fish farm. The final meeting was also a members’ night, with a quiz and film slides, including some by Dr Neal Rankin and Mr Valery Vasilief. From further afield came the other speakers, all with excellent slides. They were Gordon Riddle who was keenly interested in kestrels, Don Smith on birds of Canada, Mark Beaman (speaking on an appropriately freezing night) about birding in Siberia and Mongolia, Gordon Yates on Islay geese, John Love describing the re-introduction of sea-eagles to Rhum and one which later proved topical—Henry Robb on the birds of Patagonia and the Falkland Islands. In November, Mr Chris Mylne showed films at a well-attended public meeting, in aid of the George Waterston Memorial Fund. Outings were arranged to Caerlaverock Nature Reserve, Loch Ken and in Glenlee Park. JEAN GIBSON THE GEORGE WATERSTON HIDES During the autumn Mrs Irene Waterston formally opened the hides gifted by the club to the RSPB and the SWT in memory of her husband, the late Dr George Waterston, the costs of these being met from the George Waterston Memorial Fund. On both occasions the opening cere- mony fortunately coincided with one of the comparatively few fine days in a period which was notable for its excessive rainfall. The first of these ceremonies took place at the RSPB’s Vane Farm on 17 September 1982 and was combined with the official opening of the new underpass which now gives safe access to the lochside section of the reserve. From the hide visitors can enjoy good views of two new lagoons created near the shore of Loch Leven and also a much closer view of the loch itself than has been possible in the past. A screened approach ensures that disturbance to the birds is minimal. The full cost of the hide, £1,790, was met by the George Waterston Memorial Fund; the underpass—built during road reconstruction—was paid for by the National Coal Board, and the Edinburgh RSPB Members’ Group and Union Oil both made substantial contributions towards the cost of the excavation and screening work. This new facility adds greatly to the bird- watching opportunities at Vane and it is particularly appropriate that it was opened in time for the goose season; the first Pinkfeet of the autumn arrived within 24 hours of the opening! The hide is open daily (except Fridays) from 10 am to 5 pm until Christmas, thereafter on Sat- urdays and Sundays only, 10 am - 4 pm until 1 April, when weekday opening resumes. The opening of the SWT hide at Montrose Basin LNR took place on 17 October 1982, when the approach route across the fields was awash after recent heavy rain. Situated to the northwest of the Basin, the 140 GEORGE WATERSTON HIDES 12(4) hide offers excellent views of an extensive area of mudflats, much fre- quented by waders and ducks. The materials used in its construction, costing £1,100, were paid for by the George Waterston Memorial Fund; much of the associated work was carried out by voluntary labour. As the screening of the approach route is still incomplete the hide is not yet open to the public on a regular basis; members will be advised when this situation changes. Meantime groups wishing to visit the hide should contact the Reserve Ranger, Chris Eatough, N. Tillysole Cottage, Kin- naird, Brechin (tel (0356 2) 3480). AUTUMN HIGHLIGHT - A RUSSIAN INVASION After a prolonged period of easterly winds and bad weather the week- end of 9th and 10th October produced a trickle of good birds on the east coast but gave no hint of what Monday would bring. From Fair Isle to England thousands of Goldcrests and thrushes and hundreds of Bram- blings could be seen at many of the regular migrant-watching sites. Rare birds included several Parrot Crossbills and the Siberian Radde’s and Dusky Warblers, Black-throated Thrush and Olive-backed Pipit. But this huge fall will be particularly remembered for the exceptional numbers of Pallas’s Warblers. At least 34 of these Siberian gems were seen by lucky birders from Shetland to St Abbs. PETE ELLIS STOP PRESS Bookshop Manager/Assistant Secretary We are very pleased to welcome Miss Maureen Doran to the SOC staff. She took up her duties as Book- shop Manager/Assistant Secretary on 19 October and members who attended the annual conference will have met her during the weekend. Miss Doran graduated from Glasgow University with a Zoology degree in 1974. Since then she has worked for some time as Scientific Officer at the Poul Research Centre at Lasswade and, latterly, as a research associate in inburgh. She hails from Edinburgh and Eyemouth, is a club member, and is well acquainted with the Lothian coast and its birds. We wish Maureen every success in her new post. Photographic competition In this first season only four members submit- ted entries for the competition—a disappointing response which we hope will be rectified in future years. A start has, however, been made and we are confident that once established the competition will attract entries not only from potential new contributors of photographs to SB but also from those who have provided illustrations in the past. The judging was carried out by a panel of three: Don Smith, Stan da Prato and Valerie Thom. Technical quality, originality and aesthetic appeal were the main criteria applied, while “difficult” shots or species were rated more ey than “‘sitting ducks”. On this basis the first three places were all awarded to the same photographer, Sam Alexander of Aberdeen, for his prints of (1) a displaying cock Capercaillie, (2) a dive- bombing Arctic Skua, and (3) a Golden Plover. We congratulate Sam on his success and thank the other contestants for submitting entries. In addition to the modest monetary prize (see SB 12:1) the winner re- ceived a suitably engraved shield, which he will hold for one year. This was generously donated by Don Smith, to whom the club is most grateful. As judging took place later in the year than originally planned it was not possible to include the winning photographs in this number: they will appear in the spring issue. Examples of the work of the three con- testants who entered prints were displayed at the conference. Scottish Books Our latest catalogue of 615 Scottish books includes 104 on natural history, angling and deer. We also wish to purchase good Scottish books on all subjects. Aberdeen Rare Books Collieston, Ellon, Aberdeenshire Tel. 035 887 275 CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let In GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. South Uist ® Spend an enjoyable holiday among the birds of moorland and machair...an excellent area for birdwatching all the year round. B & B, packed lunch and evening meal; all home cook- ing. Parties catered for. Open all year round. Write for details to: Mrs C. MacAskill Drimisdale House Lochboisdale, SOUTH UIST EDINBURGH ROYAL CHORAL UNION All concerts for the 125th Anniver- sary Season will be held in the Usher Hall Saturday, 4th December 1982 7.30 p.m. Mass in B Minor (Bach) Conductor: Christopher Seaman Contgm eso Petroleum Go. Lie Saturday, Ist January 1983, noon Messiah (Handel) Conductor: John McLeod Saturday, 23rd April 1983 7.30 p.m. Symphony No. 2 in D Major (Beethoven) A Sea Symphony (Vaughan Williams) Conductor : Sir Chas. Groves, KBE Programme incorporating series booking form and full details avail- able from Usher Hall Box Office, Lothian Road, Edinburgh EH] 2EA (Tel. 031 228 1155/6/7) and Choir members. Series ticket saves 20%. THE SCOTTISH FIELD STUDIES ASSOCIATION LTD. Kindrogan Field Centre Birdwatching Courses 1983 KINDROGAN provides accommodation, lecture rooms, laboratories and a library tor visitors. Situated in the Southern Grampian High- lands, it aftords excellent opportunities for all aspects of field studies. BIRDS—a weekend course. John Edelsten May 13-15 SCOTTISH BIRDS—hills and lowlands. R. M. Ramage June 8-15 SCOTTISH BIRDS—a relaxed course. Paul Croft June 22-29 HOW BIRDS WORK—their biology and natural history. Ron Freethy July 13-20 HIGHLAND BIRDS—a strenuous course, Ted Green July 27-Aug 3 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course. Ian Walker Aug 3-10 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course. Jim Flint A ug 10-17 AUTUMN BIRDS—winter visitors. Nicol Mutch Oct 14-21 All applications and requests for information on these and other courses should be addressed to The Warden, Kindrogan Field Centre, Enochdhu, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 7PG. Tel. Strathardle (025 081) 286. S.a.e. appreciated. BIRDS OF THE ARCTIC OU have a good chance of seeing some rare Arctic birds if you go on an Erskine Expedition. These mostly last 24 weeks in June, July and August and are led by experts. Gyr falcon, Sabine’s Gull, Ivory Gull, Arctic Redpoll and Snowy Owl were seen last year. And many species of geese, waders and auks are around in large numbers in the relevant habitats. There are camping treks in three wild parts of Greenland and Baffin Island, or stay at hostels in Iceland, South Greenland or Alaska, or cruise in a converted fishing boat in Spitsbergen (80°N), landing each day. You will also see mammals like the Muskoxen, Reindeer and Ermine, and many boreal flowers including the elusive ‘spider plant’. £780 up, inclusive from Glasgow. Write, stating special interests, to ERSKINE TOURS, 14 Inverleith Place, Edinburgh 3x40 Bwef Binoculars The Birdwatchers Glasses. As used by the forestry commission. Ideal for the young and beginners. Lightweight (26 ozs.), extra wide angie, 514 ft. field of view, also suitable for speciacle wearers. We _ believe them incomparable value at £37.26 inc. case and lanyard plus £1.95 towards p&p. Top quality optical goods at enormous savings Heron quality. Heron service. Heron choice — we hold in stock what we believe to be the largest range of telescopes and binoculars for birdwatchers in the country. A few examples are shown below: Retail Our StNOCULARS Price Price Swift Audubon 8.5 x44 MKII (380z) - £109.66 Swift Grand Prix 8x 40 MK.1(240z) £64.58. Carl Zeiss 10x40 B Dialyt (2402)- £325.35 Zeiss Jena Notarem 10 x 40B (240z) £148.95 Zeiss Jena 8x30 Jenoptem (170z) £38.94 Zeiss Jena 10x50 Jenopiem (3502) £68.24 Habicht Diana 10x 40 (230z) £329.89 £230.92 Leitz 10x40 B (2102) £365.70 VISTA 8 x 30 BUDGET (2402) £16.45 ‘geal for children) TELESCOPES B Nickel Supra 15 x 60 x60 (2802) Hertel & Reuss Televari 25 «60x60 (320z) £186.88 £145.47 Order cireci from this list - Prices correct as of 21st July, 1982, inclusive of case, lanyard and manufacturer's guarantee, plus £1.$5 post and packing charges. Access and Barclaycard accepted. Apply for details and send for your guide to Binocular & Telescope ovenersnip. Further details and comprehensive price list available in return for this coupon, including Field & Trek Catalogue of camping, rambling and climbing equipment. Or call in person and see our vast stock for yourself. £191.71 £141.27 Heron £38.80 NeW 10x40 Wide-angle Binoculars Quality, power and light weight too — a mere 20 ozs! 367 ft. field of view at 1,000 yards. Slim Zeiss-type body, centre focus, black finish, fully-coated lenses, also suitable for spectacle wearers. Excellent value at £38.80 inc. case, straps and landyard, plus £1.95 p&p Heron NEW 8x40 Zcf binoculars £29.21 Weight 21 ozs., 341 ft. field of view at 1,000 yards. Fold-down rubber eyecups. Only £29.21 plus £1.95 p&p. Schmidt & Bender 15-60 xzoom telescope with 6Omm object lens This quite & magnificent ™ telescope from West Germany is ideal for use or. reservoirs and seashore. Robust in construction, rubber covered, excellent in optical quality. We believe £1 26.50 this to be the best on the market today. Weight 950g., length 300m closed, 560mm open. Fitted with tripod- brush. Exit pupil 41mm, light-gathering g power 16.1, twilight 30.60, field of view 1,000m 47.12m. Heron price of £126.50 including leather case and rubber eyecup for spectacle wearers is outstanding value. Add £1.95 p&p. Please send me ‘details and Price lists on: Binoculars) Reecopes (25)) OField & Trek ackpacking Equipment(750)1) Skiing The new ‘Field and Trek Group Equipment 1) 4 Heron Opiical Ce. 23- 25 Kings Road, Budget Account Card" [] | Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4ER.Telex:995566 AP.R.30.6%) | heron * “(Typical | i] (A member of the Field & Trex Group ee ee wee es ee ee oe oe Name | & (0277) 221259, 219418, 210913 Address Only 5 minutes from Brentwood Station. 30 minutes from London's Liverpool St. Station (Southend Line). Open daily SB3 S am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, ! Xe aN poh hy Neat a a hs Ad 4 Saturday 9.30 am to 4.30 pm 1983 SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS by PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS Directors : Raymond Hodgkins, MA (Oxon) mBoU Patricia Hodgkins, MTAI and Neville Wykes, FAAT By Scheduled Air and Inclusive. With Guest Lecturers and a Tour Manager. *Provisional RWANDA & TANZANIA Gorillas, Birds, Wildlife 11-27 Feb £1900* SPRING IN ROME Sites : William Taylor FRIBA 20-27 Mar £317* SPRING IN CRETE Birds, Sites, Flowers 17-31 Mar £438 SPRING IN MALTA Birds, Flowers, Sites 26 Mar-2 Apr £320 BIRDS & FLOWERS OF CEPHALONIA 26 Apr-10 May £430 EVIA & SAMOS Flowers Apr 8-22 £690* INDIA (KULU VALLEY) Birds, Flowers, Wildlife 18 May-June 3 £1300* F.F.P.S. TOUR OF GREECE Natural History, Flowers Jun 4-18 £580 This tour has been developed by special request of the Flora and Fauna Preservation Society as part of their current appeal on behalf of the Mediterranean Monk Seal. BIRDS OF MACEDONIA Lakes Prespa and 27 Aug-Sep 10 £550 Ochrid in Greece and Jugoslavia TUNISIAN ARCHAEOLOGY Sites: David Miles BA Oct £550* AUTUMN IN CRETE Sites, Birds Nov £395* “STRAIGHT” TRAVEL: We are a fully licensed travel agency dealing mainly with University Senior Members. Our experience of Sabbaticals, Lecture Tours and Conferences is entirely at your disposal for accurate planning of long itineraries or economical Conference arrangements. Registration ; Costs nothing, does not commit you in any way but gives you first sight of the brochure on publication. PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN AND GOWN TRAVEL 40/41 SOUTH PARADE, SUMMERTOWN, OXFORD, OX2 7JP Phone Oxford (0865) 511341-2-3 AGENTS Fully Bonded Atol No. 275 Publication 22nd October 1982 The BARN OWL by D.S. Bunn, A. B. Warburton and R.D.S. Wilson In the classic monograph mould, this study of Tyto a/ba is the product of almost 40 years field work by its authors and complementary observations by other dedicated ornithologists in Britain, the USA and Europe. The result is a detailed, balanced account based on intimate knowledge of the Barn Owl in varying habitats in Britain, comparing, as appropriate, this race’s behaviour with that of sub-species in other areas of the world. There are major chapters on breeding and general behaviour, feeding, distribution, etc, but voice is rightly given a full treatment. The text is graced by lan Willis’s fine drawings and there are 31 monochrome photographs and a colour frontispiece. 280 pages, £12.60 net ISBN 0 85661 0321 T& ADPOYSER Calton, Waterhouses, Staffordshire ST10 3JX OO'9LLS S66SLF OS LZ F oo's9Ee3 00° Lz 09 x 09- sng O9 X 09-GZ !4eABjO 1 YW BH OS X Gt-vL POS xewNn] (J9POW MEN) ZNGZ x OF 249!qGeH O08 X Pe JOUIBIS edodsBulnods S666 3 09 x 09-07 ues seeEYyD S6'6vL3 V/¥ GZ X OF yuUeLy SeeYyD eatig = 410M jepoyy (aseo adAj-Burjs Buipnyjoul) sadoosajay_ Rae Ree Mere weg: auetak G66t F zZOGE OSs xZ (uetssny) O9EZ F ZOHTZ Of x8 SsoljaH G66PLF 2047 WaJeION OF X OL SEVS F49330 jelseds wedouer Og x OL S6%y F 2081 weidousr of xs PBuar SslaZ os'v6 3 Avldso Zp x G*L OO';OL F 20He ~—- X41 PUEID OH xB OO'6LLF 20BE YH UOgNPNY py x Gg IMS OO'LPZF 20 HZ eueigorxot YdIqeyY OS@%prs 209E iAleIG VO/E9gxB S66SEF 72097 I3AlPIG VD/EOr x OL S660EF 72002 1Aie!1q BOE x 8B (359/44) SE9SLF 209 wlelg goz x 8 ssiaZ Gig WWBiop~, lepolw saoud JUNODSIP je sayjeu Ajiyjenb do} 49439 OSE 820 :/91 “INZ Lidl AlOHNS JUX'e ; : : Od PI] YUDIY S2UIDUD widoe'g - weg Aepinies - Aepuow uedo POLLT 218L “YoImsony “IS UOIT AIUYAA OZ dijuaD e1awWeD YIIMION IV YOIMAON] Ul GOYs j1e}34 UNO JISI/, ¥ eas Tateriede CTE anni eel OO'SZLF 209G dog OL X 0 OC ELF ZO LTS lustud $001 Op x OL S6 vss 20 OF lusiid 001 9G x g S6VLF z0 9E wustid $004 QG X £ SO; CLs ZOLTS lustud 4001 Op xX g os° 2493 zO6L uusiud 45oo1 Of x g G6 6E3 ZOZL uustud yoou ZZ xX B 00° 6S3 ZO 7% O191W OG X ZL os’ 893 ZO ¥Z Ov X OL o8's9oF ZO VZ yor x 8 06° 0£3 zO 9E 4d9Z OS * OL S6 6c ZO 9E JOZOS* ZL G8 Lt 20 G7 492 00x 8 TAR AC zO 8L 4dOZOEx8 aolid — 1yBlay 12POW, f siejnoouig jues4 sapeys) Walter Thomsen, Printer, Selkirk ISSN 0036-9144 BIRDS...) D,, Qag wy THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 5 SPRING 1983 Publication 21st January 1983 8) |e W BIRDS NEW TO BRITAIN AND IRELAND J.T. R. Sharrock and P. J. Grant The 83 species featured, in date sequence of discovery, had not been recorded in Britain or Ireland before 1946. The original accounts of the sightings published in British Birds between 1947 and 1982 are now reprinted and supplemented with comment by Dr Sharrock on subsequent occurrences and current status. In addition Peter Grant provides identification notes drawing attention to points not covered in the original accounts. There is also a world distribution map for each species and a line illustration to head each of the accounts. A section of plates reproduces 81 ‘first-sighting’ photographs covering 32 of the species in the book. 280 pages, £12.60 net T & AD POYSER: Calton, Waterhouses, Staffs BOOKS BIRDS and ISLANDS St Kilda, Orkney, Shetland, Hebrides and Natural History New Branch especially Ornithology : . in Edinburgh Books and libraries bought. Collection can usually be arranged during my visits [] Expert Service to Scotland and the High- p lands and Islands. (] Binoculars [] Telescopes DAVID WILSON [] Repairs 95 Worlds End Lane Weston Turville See back cover Aylesbury, Bucks. for deiails. (Stoke Mandeville 2247) THE SCOTTISH FIELD STUDIES ASSOCIATION LTD. Kindrogan Field Centre Birdwatching Courses 1983 KINDROGAN provides accommodation, lecture rooms, laboratories and a library for visitors. Situated in the Southern Grampian High- lands, it affords excellent opportunities for all aspects of field studies. BIRDS—a weekend course. John Edelsten May 13-15 SCOTTISH BIRDS—hills and lowlands. R. M. Ramage June 8-15 SCOTTISH BIRDS—a relaxed course. Paul Croft June 22-29 HOW BIRDS WORK—their biology and natural history. Ron Freethy July 13-20 HIGHLAND BIRDS—a strenuous course. Ted Green July 27-Aug 3 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course. Ian Walker Aug 3-10 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course, Jim Flint Aug 10-17 AUTUMN BIRDS—winter visitors. Nicol Mutch Oct 14-21 All applications and requests for information on these and other courses should be addressed to The Warden, Kindrogan Field Centre, Enochdhu, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 7PG. Tel. Strathardle (025 081) 286. S.a.e. appreciated. Member of The Association of British Travel Agents Eighteen years’ service to naturalists and birdwatchers Holidays organised by Birdwatchers for Birdwatchers ETHIOPIA (the Rift Valley) NEPAL MOROCCO SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK (Virginia) VANCOUVER AND THE ROCKIES RWANDA (for Gorillas and Birds) TANZANIA KENYA (Mount Kenya, Samburu) KENYA (Lake Turkana) KENYA (Lake Victoria and Mt. Elgon) KENYA (Indian Ocean coast, Tsavo) BULGARIA THE SPANISH PYRENEES YUGOSLAVIA TURKEY S.W. SPAIN THE CAMARGUE N.E. GREECE LAKE NEUSIEDL THE HIGH ALPS MAJORCA THE SEYCHELLES LAWRENCE G. HOLLOWAY ORNITHOLIDAYS “*° Dept. 4, 1/3 Victoria Drive, Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, PO21 2PW. Telephone 0243 821230 ATOL Licence No. 743 SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 5, SPRING 1983 Page Editorial wee ee ae, a sis ace a 141 Status and sex ratio of Pochard wameenss at ea (P. A. R. Hockey) - ‘ 143 Breeding waders on cea land | Galbraith & R. W. Furness) a és 148 Birdwatching in Lewis and Harris (W. A. J. Cunningham) 154 Survey of breeding waders of agricultural land eae 158 Short Notes Golden Eagle & Peregrine in NE. Scotland in 1982 (Sandy Payne & Adam Watson) pe : 159 Golden Eagle inter-action with Roe Deer & Fox (I. McLeod, K. Duncan & I. Sim) eee 7” 162 Cuckoo eating young amphibians (D. McDougall) — 162 Cormorant eating Lesser Octopus (B. Zonfrillo) ... 163 Letter : Counting Gannets at breeding colonies a 164 Reviews & Current Literature a3: cag = wit 165 The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club see ste — 169 Notices ; date ise sate ‘fare 5 170 Recent Reports aes Ellis) ad eae ase ae 171 Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe 1983/84 SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS hy PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS Directors : Raymond Hodgkins, ma (Oxon) MBou Patricia Hodgkins, mTar and Neville Wykes, FAAI By Scheduled Air and Inclusive. With Guest Lecturers and a Tour Manager * Provisional SPRING IN CRETE Mar 17-31 Flowers, Sites, Birds £438 Tour now full. Registrations for 1984 welcomed. EVVIA & SAMOS Apr 8-22 Birds, Flowers, Sites £650 Tour now full. Registrations for 1984 welcomed. CEPHALONIA Apr 26-May 10 Birds, Flowers £430 SPAIN - Coto Donana May 1-8 Birds, Wildlife £360* FLORA & FAUNA TOUR OF GREECE Jun 4-18 £680 Specially commissioned to support the Monk Seal Appeal. BIRDS OF MACEDONIA Aug 27-Sep 10 £550 Tour concentrates on Lakes Prespa and Ohrid in Greece and Jugoslavia. NORTHERN INDIA & NEPAL Oct 20-Nov 6 Birds, Wildlife £1300* AUTUMN IN CRETE Oct 27-Nov 10 Sites, Birds £390* Based at the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel. GAMBIA Nov 30-Dec 7 Birds, Wildlife £390* CHRISTMAS IN CRETE Dec 20-Jan 3 Birds, Flowers, £350* Archaeology. Based at the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel. 1984 AUSTRALIA & MALAYSIA Feb - 3 weeks Birds, Flowers £2000* Archaeology. SPRING IN ARGOLIS Mar 22-31 Archaeology, Flowers £295* SPRING IN CORFU Apr 25-May 2 Birds, Flowers £199* PELOPONNESE & CRETE May 20-Jun 3 Archaeology, Flowers £395* NORTHERN GREECE Jun 8-23 Mountains, Flowers, Butterflies £560* INDIA - RANN OF KUTCH Nov 1-20 Birds, Wildlife £1300* “STRAIGHT” TRAVEL: We are a fully licensed travel agency dealing mainly wtth University Sentor Members. Our experience of Sabbaticals, Lecture Tours and Conferences is entirely at your disposal for accurate planning of long itineraries or economical Conference arrangements. Registration : Costs nothing, does not commit you in any way but gives you first sight of the brochure on publication. PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN AND GOWN TRAVEL 40/41 SOUTH PARADE, SUMMERTOWN, OXFORD, en cents OX2 7JP Aver Phone Oxford (0865) 511341-2-3 ee Fully Bonded Atol No. 275 SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Volume 12 No. 5 Spring 1983 Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and S, R. D. da Prato Editorial HAVING now officially donned the editorial mantle we have perforce had to consider carefuily just what our editorial aims and policy should be. To help clarify our ideas we re-read the editorial in Vol. 1 No. 1 of Scottish Birds, where we found it stated that “The purpose of a journal is to be read with interest and pleasure’. This may seem a self-evident and very modest aim for a journal such as ours, yet it is one which may not always be easy to achieve. Within the SOC we have a very wide spectrum of membership, from the casual week-end bird- er, through the active and knowledgeable amateur to the professional ornithologist. Catering for such a varied reader- ship within the confines of one small journal must inevitably present a challenge—not only to those responsible for selecting the content but also to those who contribute to it. It is amaz- ing how even the most intrinsically interesting of topics can be rendered as dull as ditchwater by an author who spares little thought for his readers! With the help of the fellow- members whose contributions keep Scottish Birds alive, we will endeavour to achieve a balance of content and a standard of readability which will result in most of our readers gaining interest and pleasure from these pages most of the time. We are only too well aware that we can never hope to interest and please all of you all the time. The essentials of the editorial policy are, of course, laid down by the editorial committee and, where appropriate, approved by council, but within these general guidelines there is room for some flexibility. We will continue to give priority to papers dealing with the status and distribution of Scotland’s birds, for which SB is clearly a very suitable vehicle, and to include more general articles on places of interest to bird- watchers. Papers concerned with methodology or techniques, or those heavily dependent upon supporting statistical data, do not seem to us to be what most of our readers want, and we feel that these are in any case best published in one of the more scientific journals. We would, however, encourage the 142 EDITORIAL 12(5) authors of such papers to submit to SB a brief non-technical account of their study aims and findings, which would serve both to keep members informed of important work being carried out in Scotland and to direct those interested to a fuller account. This would help to ensure that our journal ful- fils its primary function of presenting a good all-round picture of the Scottish ornithological scene. Short progress reports on studies involving long-term monitoring (like that on page 159 of this issue) would also be welcome. The use of these pages for the permanent recording of mem- bers’ observations is a long-established practice which will continue. As SB’s first editor commented, our main purpose is to give publication to the records of our members. Over the years the character of our short notes has changed, largely due to the introduction of the Scottish Bird Report, and the emphasis recently has been more on observations of unusual bird behaviour than on records of first sightings or distribu- tional changes. It may be that, since not all members now see the SBR, we should resume the publication of selected records of the latter type in Scottish Birds, perhaps following the style of the introductory summaries prepared for the SBR by Roy Dennis. We would welcome members’ views in this connection. Out and about in 1983 There is little likelihood of the more active and energetic among us failing to find an opportunity for purposeful bird-watching during the year ahead. Having survived the rigours of Winter Atlas-ing and the late January census of nocturnal gull roosts (this sounds an even bigger challenge than counting geese!), they will hardly have time to draw breath before the start of the breeding season sur- veys. A top priority among these must surely be our own survey of the breeding waders of agricultural land, now in its second and final season (see page 158). The BTO’s Buzzard survey offers something slightly out of the usual, involving as it does both an Atlas-type exercise and a survey of soaring birds, the latter aimed at obtaining estimates of Buzzard den- sities in different parts of the breeding range; we hope it will be well supported in Scotland. The fruits of our labours It often happens that the records compiled during the course of a long-term co-operative study vanish into the maw of the organising body and reappear only in a condensed and digested form which is inadequate for detailed analytical use in local studies. The computer age is helping to change this and we are pleased to report that the full computer print-outs of all the wildfowl counts from 1961- 1982 are now available for reference in the Waterston Library. 1983 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 143 Status and sex ratio of Pochard wintering at Edinburgh P. A. R. HOCKEY The Duddingston Pochard flock has shown striking fluctuations during the last 20 years, with the winter peak ranging from under 500 to over 8,000 birds. The author was studying this population when the new Edinburgh sewage system was introduced; he dis- cusses here the possible relationship between that development and the recent marked decline in Poch- ard in the area. Since 1979 numbers at Duddingston have not exceeded 350 but there were nearly 500 Pochard on the Forth off Edinburgh in January 1982. The Pochard breeds over much of the Palearctic region, wintering in western and southern Europe, Asia and north and tropicai Africa, almost exclusively in freshwater habitats. Winter distribution is determined by food availability and shelter, and birds are found on relatively few inland lakes and reservoirs in Europe at this season (Olney 1968). When the water freezes Pochard are among the first species to leave. In the Edinburgh area Duddingston Loch is the only fresh- water body regularly to hold large numbers of Pochard. A long recognised feature of the Edinburgh population under ice-free conditions has been the use of two main aquatic habitats—Duddingston Loch for roosting and bathing by day and the stretch of coast between West Granton and Seafield (3.5 - 6.5 km distant) for feeding by night (fig. 1). When the loch freezes, this activity pattern alters and birds both feed and roost on the estuary during the day. The winter food of Pochard is normally vegetable; Potamogeton, Chara and Nitella being preferred species (see Olney 1968). Birds feed irregularly on saline and brackish water in areas other than Edinburgh but only in the Scandinavian fjords where there is a rich littoral vegetation are saline areas preferred (Olney 1968). The birds on the Firth of Forth show a strong associa- tion with sewage outfalls, feeding on discharged grain and vegetable matter (e.g. Player 1970). A new primary treatment plant for Edinburgh was intro- duced in February 1978 and effluent is now discharged through a long diffusion pipe at Seafield (fig. 1). Identifiable solid matter has completely disappeared from the effluent and only 144 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 12(5) fine suspended solids not removed during the screening pro- cess remain. During the study period some untreated sewage still entered the estuary at Edinburgh, but flow was variable and these pipes will eventually be incorporated into the new system. MULTIPLE DIFFUSION PIPE EST GRANTON WARDIE J *s. POCHARD FLIGHT / LINES ae y Fig. 1. The Edinburgh coastline showing the location of effluent pipes (dotted lines) mentioned in the text and the position of the new multiple diffusion pipe at Seafield. Pochard flight lines (direct) to and from Duddingston are included. In view of these changes, the aim of this study was to ex- amine trends and fluctuations in the Edinburgh Pochard pop- ulation over the last 30 years and make a preliminary investigation into possible adverse effects of the new sewage treatment. The study also examined the sex ratio for compar- ison with other populations, where flocks are almost invariably biased in favour of males (e.g. Homes 1942). Methods Monthly winter counts (September to March) made between 1949 and 1978 (Wildfowl Trust, unpub.) were analysed to assess trends and fluctuations in the daytime numbers of Pochard at Duddingston Loch and the adjacent Edinburgh coast. During winter 1978-9 regular counts were made in the same areas and at Largo Bay on the north shore of the Firth of Forth, as indirect evidence of some interchange between the two areas exists (Campbell 1974-8, Hockey 1979). Sex ratios were recorded at all sites, though only one estimate was made at Largo Bay due to difficult counting conditions. Trends and fluctuations 1949 to 1979 The number of Pochard wintering in the Edinburgh area 1983 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 145 increased rapidly from 1949 to 1968, since when it has fluc- tuated considerably (fig. 2). The average number of birds present per day during the period September to March (i.e. the mean of all available monthly counts for each year) at Duddingston Loch and the Edinburgh coast is shown in the Table. These figures give a more accurate indication of the comparative diurnal utilization of the two areas than is given by the annual peak counts. +] PEAK POPULATION xX 10° 50 55 60 65 70 75 79 YEAR Fig. 2. Peak Pochard numbers (in thousands) in winter at Dudding- ston Loch 1949-79. During the years of increase at Edinburgh there was a nor- therly and westerly spread of the breeding population into 146 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 12(5) Scandinavia. One explanation suggested was amelioration of the Baltic climate and drying up of the breeding areas to the south and east in the forest steppe zone (Boyd 1959). The timing of the northwesterly spread of breeding birds and the increase at Edinburgh may be coincidental, as the Firth of Forth sample comprises at best less than 4% of the northwest European wintering population (L. H. Campbell pers comm.). Table. The average number of Pochard per day on Duddingston Loch and the adjacent Edinburgh coastline September-March 1948-79 Winter Duddingston Coast Winter Duddingston Coast 1948/9 24 0 1964/5 1,277 0 1949/50 49 No data 1965/6 1,621 12 1950/1 93 No data 1966/7 1,481 172 1951/2 162 No data 1967/8 1,769 110 1952/3 98 No data 1968/9 1,936 320 1953/4 147 No data 1969/70 2,496 460 1954/5 138 No data 1970/1 603 78 1955/6 199 0 1971/2 2,432 757 1956/7 276 0 1972/3 2,595 300 1957/8 332 8 1973/4 4,005 34 1958/9 185 No data 1974/5 3,921 0 1959/60 426 36 1975/6 2,179 904 1960/1 320 1 1976/7 1,280 347 1961/2 1,237 0 1977/8 2,411 251 1962/3 1,052 61 1978/9 333 260 1963/4 1,093 7 Sex ratio The Edinburgh Pochard population is strongly biased in favour of males. During winter 1978-9 the percentage varied from 74.6% (n=476) to 88.0% (n=134) with an overall mean of 82.1% (n=5,180). This is a higher percentage of males than was found in London (58-72%), Lanarkshire (51-76%) or the Tay estuary area (54.5-82.5%) (Boase 1927, Homes 1982). Various theories have been proposed to account for the predominance of males in northern wintering populations, though data from the southern edge of the wintering range are almost non-existent. Males undergo wing moult earlier than females and are the first to arrive on the wintering grounds: it has been suggested that the earlier migration of males means they pre-empt the food supplies and force the later arriving females to leap-frog. Alternatively, since females appear to prefer shallower feeding areas, the freezing of lake mar- gins may force them to move to milder regions (Salomonsen 1968). Freezing of the feeding area does not occur in the Edinburgh situation. However, if food supply becomes a limiting factor following the sewage purification programme, sex ratio data collected in future seasons may provide further information to support or refute the leap-frog theory. If this theory proves 1983 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 147 to be correct then a trend towards increasing proportions of males could provide an index of relative food availability between years. Unfortunately few published data exist from years before changes in the sewage treatment. Conclusions In view of the dramatic fluctuations in the winter popula- tions of Pochard at Edinburgh during the last 10 years, care must be exercised in drawing conclusions from the observa- tion that the lowest winter population in the last 20 years coin- cided with the introduction of the new sewage treatment plant. Pochard numbers at Largo Bay, where there has been no change in the sewage outfall regime, remained well within the range of the previous four winters (Hockey 1979). On the southern shore a massive decline in wintering Scaup began many years before the sewage changes (Campbell 1974-8). Evidence suggests however that Pochard are more dependent on raw sewage than are Scaup (Player 1970). If Pochard continue to feed at sewage outfalls on the Forth it would be valuable to examine the populations in relation to availability of discharged vegetable matter and sewage associated invertebrates, as these will certainly decline due to the screening process and persistent exploitation. It is important that monitoring of Pochard numbers on both north and south shores of the Firth of Forth be continued, partic- ularly at the time outflow from the East Leith sewers ceases. Acknowledgments I am grateful to Dr L. H. Campbell for his comments on an earlier draft. The field data were collected while I was under contract to the Nature Conservancy Council (Scotland). Summary Under ice-free conditions, Pochard at Edinburgh roost and bathe at Duddingston Loch by day and fly to the nearby coast to feed at sewer outfalls by night. When Duddingston Loch is frozen the activity pattern is altered and birds both feed and roost on the estuary during the day. The population of Pochard increased rapidly at Edinburgh from 1949 to 1968, since when it has fluctuated markedly. Further monitoring in future years is needed to assess the full impact of sewage purification. The sex ratio of Pochard flocks in the Firth of Forth is strongly biased in favour of males, as is common in Europe. References BoasE, H. 1927. Proportions of male and female ducks on the Tay Estuary, 1910-1925. British Birds 20: 169-172 HM Boyp, H. 1959. Movements of marked sea and diving ducks in Europe. Wildfowl Trust Ann. Rep. 10: 59-70 @ CAMPBELL, L. H. 1974-1978. Forth and Tay winter seacduck surveys. Nature Conservancy Council HM Hockey, P. A. R. 1979. Outer Forth seaduck survey 1978-1979. Nature Conservancy Council B Homes, R. C. 1942. Sex ratios in winter duck flocks. British Birds 36: 42-50. MJ OLNEY, P. J. S. 1968. The 148 POCHARD WINTERING AT EDINBURGH 12(5) food and feeding habits of the Pochard Aythya ferina. Biol. Conserv. 1: 71-76 M PLAYER, P. V. 1970. Some observations on the food and feeding habits of diving ducks at Seafield, Edinburgh. Unpublished B.Sc. Hons thesis, University of Edinburgh ® SALOMONSEN, F. 1968. The moult migra- tion. Wildfowl 19: 5-24. P. A. R. Hockey, Percy Fitzpatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa. Breeding waders on agricultural land H. GALBRAITH and R. W. FURNESS Drainage and improvement of rough grazing land is currently proceeding apace and seems likely to have an adverse effect on some of our breeding wader populations. This paper reports on a study carried out as a preliminary to the survey of breeding waders which was launched in 1982 and is continuing this season (see page 158). Although there is a large and growing body of knowledge concerning the ecology of waders in their wintering areas, comparatively little is known about their requirements during the breeding season. Many fundamental questions remain un- answered. For instance, what factors are important in habitat selection and how do these affect breeding distribution ? Answers to such questions are a prerequisite of effective con- servation. Protection of the estuarine wintering grounds would be futile if the British breeding populations were decimated by loss of breeding habitat through changes in land use. The Uist machair is known to hold large populations of breeding waders (Fuller et al. 1979, Wilson 1978), but little published information exists for more typical Scottish agri- cultural habitats. Farmland populations may be particularly at risk as financial incentives are accelerating the rate at which marginal farmland is being drained and improved or afforested. This paper presents the results of a study of the densities and habitat preferences of Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Snipe, Curlew and Redshank on three agricultural areas in southern and central Scotland. Study areas and methods The three study areas were 1.4 km? in Glen Fruin, Dunbar- tonshire, 57.0 km? of the Gleniffer Braes, Renfrewshire and 14.4 km? of the Yarrow Valley, Selkirkshire. Habitats were classi- 1983 WADERS ON AGRICULTURAL LAND 149 fied as arable (land ploughed within the last six months), pasture (improved grassland with few or no herbs, rushes or sedges), rough grazing (poor quality land with many coarse grasses, rushes, sedges and herbs) or riverbank shingle. In Glen Fruin and the Yarrow Valley each field was classitied by habitat, and the location of wet or damp ground, and altitude was recorded. To establish optimum census methodology several visits were made to each site in April and May 1981 (Galbraith and Furness 1981). Incubating adults, adults with young, isolated pairs, displaying or obviously agitated birds, or nests with eggs were taken as evidence of breeding. Due to their lack of terri- toriality (Hale 1956, Greenhalgh 1971) Redshank are difficult to census where they occur at high densities, while Snipe present further problems because of their secretive nature (Smith 1981, Fuller 1981). In spite of the difficulties, cross- check counts by each author of the other’s study sites gave close agreement; detailed recommendations for census method- ology are given in Galbraith and Furness (1981). Results and discussion Comparing numbers of breeding pairs in each habitat in the Yarrow and Fruin study areas, the distribution of each species differs from random (p<0.001 in each case using a Chi squared test of association). It can be concluded that all species show strong habitat preferences, numbers nesting in each habitat type (Fig © little relationship to the available area of the habitat (Fig). Table 1. Breeding densities of waders in the three study areas and recorded in previous studies: density in pairs/km2 Glen Fruin Yarrow Valley Gleniffer Westmorland South Uist Braes Farm Machair (1,4km2) (14.4km2) (57km2) (Robson & (Fuller 1981) Williamson 1972) Oystercatcher 4 3.6 0.0 0.2 13 Lapwing 43 17.0 11 5.9 32 Curlew 3 1.8 0.6 8.7 0 Redshank ll 2.7 0.03 0.4 5 Snipe 8 3.2 no data 5.9 3 The densities of breeding waders in the three study areas are compared with other published data in Table 1. For several species the density of pairs per km? varied by as much as two orders of magnitude even though all sites were chosen because previous visits had indicated that they held large numbers of breeding waders. The differences in breeding den- sities between study areas are primarily determined by habitat availability. When densities are compared between the same 150 WADERS ON AGRICULTURAL LAND 12(5) habitats in the different study areas (Table 2) they are found to be much more closely similar. These data emphasize the limitations in presenting wader density figures when habitat composition is not taken into account. GLEN FRUIN River Dry pasture Arable Rough grazing below 300m 100 60 60 40 20 r FS ee oe os % L fo} OL OLCRS OLCRS YARROW VALLEY River Ory pasture Arable Rough grazing Rough grazing Damp pasture below 300m above 300m POE 006 OLCRS OLCRS Fig. Percentages of 5 wader species breeding in each habitat type in Glen Fruin and the Yarrow Valley; species are O—Oystercatcher, L—Lapwing, C—Curlew, R—Redshank, and S—Snipe. The percentage of each study area consisting of each habitat type is indicated by the light stippling, Thus in the Yarrow Valley 55% of the area was dry pasture but this habitat was avoided by breeding waders with only 18% of Oystercatchers and 3% of Lapwings nesting in it. Dry pasture holds very few breeding waders (Table 2). The particularly high breeding density of waders on the Glen Fruin study site results from the relative scarcity of improved dry pasture (15% of the study area) compared to the other sites. Dry pasture represented 66% of the Yarrow study area (Fig) and an even higher proportion of the Gleniffer Braes. Although few waders nested on dry pasture, it was used as a feeding habitat by some Oystercatcher, Curlew, Lapwing and Red- shank which nested elsewhere. The density of breeding waders on rough grazing above 300 m (7.0 pairs/km?) was very much lower than on the more productive rough grazing below 300 m 56.6 pairs/km?). The difference is statistically significant (x2=31, p<0.001) and the data indicate no difference between species in the degree of preference for lower altitude rough grazing (x2=2.3, ns.). ; Each species has particular habitat requirements, which dictate the extent to which it will be affected by changes in the agricultural regime. 1983 WADERS ON AGRICULTURAL LAND 151 Table 2. Densities of breeding waders in Glen Fruin and the Yarrow Vailey in relation to the nesting habitats used : densities in pairs/km?2 Area & Habitat Species Type Area Oystercatcher Lapwing Curlew Redshank Snipe (km2) (pairs/km2) Yarrow Valley Arable 1.10 15.5 102.9 0.0 0.9 0.0 Rough grazing below 300m 3.11 1.0 28.4 6.7 LT 12.8 Rough grazing above 300m 0.70 0.0 1.4 1.4 1.4 2.8 Dry pasture 8.02 1.1 0.5 0,0 0.0 0.0 Damp pasture 1.46 2.1 25.9 2.7 8.2 2.7 Glen Fruin Arable 0.09 0.0 400.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Rough grazing below 300m _ 1.09 0.0 22.0 Sif 14.0 11,0 Dry pasture 0.22 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Oystercatcher: Habitat usage by Oystercatcher in Glen Fruin differs significantly from that in the Yarrow Valley (Fig. Table 2, x2=8.4, p<0.05), In Glen Fruin the species nesis only on riverbank shingle; in the Yarrow use is made of arable land in particular, but also of dry pasiure and rough grazing. ‘The numbers of pairs of Oystercatcher per km oj river are similar in the two areas (1.5 and 1.7 for Yarrow and Fruin, respectively) suggesting that the colonisation oi arable and other habitats in the Yarrow may be an overspill which has not occurred in the Fruin because little dry pasture feeding habitat has been made available there. Conversion, by drain- age and fertilisation, of marginal rough grazing to pasture or arable land could benefit this species by creating new areas suitable for nesting and feeding. Large and unbroken iracts of arable land may be unsuitable, however, as Heppleston (1972) and Wilson (1978) found that the chicks are led from arable fields into pasture shortly after hatching. Optimal conditions are probably provided by a mosaic oi these two habitats. Lapwing: In the Yarrow valley this species showed an ex- tremely strong habitat preference (x2=606, p<0.001), nesting mainly on ploughed ground, with lower densities in rough grazing and damp pasture (Table 2). Dry pasture was almost completely avoided. The attraction of ploughed land for Lap- wing was clearly demonstrated when six pairs moved into a freshly ploughed field a few days after its conversion from dry pasture. In Glen Fruin 36 pairs of Lapwing nested in one 9 ha field where rape had been cultivated in the previous year. 152 WADERS ON AGRICULTURAL LAND 12(5) Klomp (1954) showed that, like Oystercatcher, Lapwing nest- ing on arable land lead their chicks to pasture, and that in areas where arable land is extensive Lapwing nest only around the periphery where there is access to adjacent pasture. For Lap- wing nesting on rough grazing the consequences of land im- provement are not easy to predict. A patchwork of arable and dry pasture could increase numbers over those supported by rough grazing. However, in an area where rough grazing is converted to dry pasture with no arable land Lapwing numbers would be greatly reduced (Table 2). Curlew: Although its ancestral habitat is wet upland moor, this species has colonised farmland (Sharrock 1976). In Scot- land Curlew have spread into lowland arable areas (Watson 1954) though the extent of this habit is not known. In our study areas they nested only in rough grazing or damp pasture (Table 2) and this restricted habitat utilisation would result in the loss of local populations if extensive land improvement took place. Redshank: This species nested only in rough grazing or damp pasture, and showed a rigid association with wet ground (Vable 2). Almost all pairs were located beside ditcnes or pools. Hale (1980) postulated that this retlects the teeding requirements of chicks. Fuller (1981) has argued that due to its habit of sitting tightly on the nest the Redshank is poorly adapted for nesting in short vegetation such as pasture fields. This dependence on damp ground with tussocky vegetation renders the species especially vulnerable to large scale drain- age of farmland, and as most of the Scottish population pro- bably breeds in unimproved farmland its numbers could be seriously reduced by present farming trends. Snipe: Like Redshank, Snipe were found only in damp areas of rough grazing and pasiure (Table 2). Land improve- ment could similarly reduce Snipe populations, but, unlike Redshank, Snipe also nest commonly on moorland and bogs, so that agricultural developments are likely to affect Snipe less drastically. Conclusions Unlike winter populations, breeding waders in Britain are not normally concentrated into small internationally important areas. This presents problems for the conservationist. Given our present lack of information on the sizes and breeding season requirements of the populations at risk it is possible that piecemeal land improvement could drastically reduce their numbers before the danger of the situation was recog- nised. Although Uist machair is famous for its breeding wader populations, it is worth noting that similar densities of all 5 1983 WADERS ON AGRICULTURAL LAND 153 species of wader were recorded in the less improved of our study sites (Table 1), so that unimproved farmland throughout Scotland may hold important numbers of breeding waders. Most land improvement involves converting low altitude rough grazing into dry pasture (with an intermediate stage of one or two years as ploughed land). Dry pasture supports few breeding waders. Local populations of Curlew and Snipe, and the national population of Redshank appear to be threatened by these developments. Acknowledgments Our thanks are due to Harry Green and Mike Pienkowski for stim- ulating our interest in this subject, and to John Mitchell, Rob Fuller, Ken Smith and John Sweeney for helpful discussions. Stan da_ Prato suggested several improvements in the manuscript. The Nature Conser- vancy Council and Glasgow University supported the fieldwork. Summary The densities and habitat preferences of wader species nesting in three farmland areas in south and central Scotland were investigated. Few birds nested on dry pasture, although the habitat was of some value to feeding waders. Conversion of rough grazing to dry pasture is likely seriously to reduce the national Redshank population and to reduce local numbers of Curlew and Snipe. With increasing land improvement stimulated by government subsidies it is important that the effects of these land changes are monitored. References FULLER, R. J. WILSON, J. R. & Coxon P. 1979. Birds of the Outer Hebrides: the waders. Proc. Roy. Soc. Edin. 17B: 419-430 Hl Fuuter, R. J. 1981. The breeding habitats of waders on North Uist machair. Scot. Birds 11: 142-152 B GALBRAITH, H. & FURNESS, R. W. 1981. Methodology for censusing breeding waders on agricultural land. Wader Study Group Bull. 33: 12-13. B GREEN- HALGH, M. E. 1971. The breeding bird communities of Lancashire salt- marshes. Bird Study 18: 199-212. HM Hate, W. G. 1956. The lack of terri- tory in the Redshank. Ibis 98: 98: 398-400. HM Hate, W. G. 1980. Waders. London. # HEppLeston, P. B. 1972. The comparative breeding ecology of Oystercatchers Haematopus ostralegus in inland and coastal habitats. J. Anim. Ecol. 41: 23-53. HM Kiomp, H. 1954. Die terreinkeus van de Kievit Vanellus vanellus. Ardea 41: 1-139. fH Rosson, R. W. & WILLIAMson, K. 1972. The breeding birds of a Westmorland farm. Bird Study 19: 202- 215. @ Suarrock, J. T. R. 1976. The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland. Tring. @ Smrru, K. W. 1981. Snipe censusing methods. Bird Study 28: 246-248. MJ Watson, A. 1954. Curlew nesting in cornfields. Scot. Nat. 66: 125. HM Witson, J. R. 1978. Agricultural influences on waders nesting on the South Uist machair. Bird Study 25: 198-207. H. Galbraith, 96 Neilston Road, Paisley, Renfrewshire. R. W. Furness, Zoology Department, Glasgow University, Glasgow. 154 BIRDWATCHING IN LEWIS AND HARRIS 12(5) Birdwatching in Lewis and Harris W. A. J. CUNNINGHAM That many of the rarer vagrants to the Outer Hebrides are found by visitors is no reflection on the competence of the small band of birdwatchers in these islands. Rather it is due to the size of the archipelago and it illustrates the potential for discovery and excitement in these western isles where the ed is as free as air (and there is plenty of the fresh var- iety). _The first full account of the birds of the Outer Hebrides was given in 1888 by Harvie-Brown & Buckley in their Vertebrate Fauna series and I have tried to bring the account up to date in my recent book The Birds of the Outer Hebrides, describing the present status and distribution of the 296 species recorded in the Long Island. The Western Isles Natural History Society (Hon. Sec. Mrs J. A. Crummy, 17 Tolstachaolais, Lewis) pub- lishes a bi-annual journal Hebridean Naturalist, in which an annual supplement will keep this account up to date. Lewis and Harris together form one island divided politic- ally, geomorphologically and, to a large extent ethnically, by a boundary between Lochs Seaforth and Resort, north of which Lewis is predominantly low lying. In the parishes of Uig and Lochs, however, the terrain becomes mountainous and, across the border in Harris, contains the highest elevation in the Outer Hebrides, the Clisham (799m). Part of the east coast of Lewis north of Stornoway and much of the west of both islands is croftland and splendid beaches of either non-calcar- eous or dazzling shell sand, while the hinterland is either blanket bog or rounded hills through which the ancient gneiss and intrusive granite appear more often than not with deep and dark acidic lochs occupying every hollow. The mixed woodland at Stornoway, the largest in the Long Island, and the Forestry Commission conifer plantations at Garynahine and Aline comprise the only substantial groups of trees. There are smaller plantations, shelter belts and scrub-covered fresh- water islands wherever sheep and fire have been kept at bay. All these add up to a variety of habitats in which are found about 130 species of birds plus another 150 passage migrants and vagrants. Golden Eagles breed and are often seen from the road; two or three pairs of Peregrine may still be found on remote coas- tal cliffs and Buzzard and Merlin hunt moor and machair commonly. Wandering Osprey, Hen Harrier, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel are occasionally seen, as are accidental White- 1983 BIRDWATCHING IN LEWIS AND HARRIS 155 tailed Eagle, Gyrfalcon and Hobby. Apart from one or two resident pairs of Long-eared Owls, the only owls in Lewis and Harris have been vagrant Barn, Short-eared, Tawny and Snowy Owls. The Stornoway Woods are unique in possessing the only rookery and the only substantial populations of Blue and Great Tits, Tree Sparrow, Spotted Flycatcher, Treecreeper and Goldcrest. Summer brings large numbers of Willow Warbler, occasional Grasshopper, Wood and Garden Warblers and Chiffchaff, while Sedge Warbler, Whinchat and Wheatear en- liven the open countryside around. The Corn Bunting was once common in the arable areas but is now almost extinct. Flocks of Twite winter in these parts and disperse to breed in the hinterland. Golden Plover, Oyster- catcher, Lapwing and Curlew feed on the rough pasture but only a few remain to breed on the island. The township lands around Broadbay are the daily resort of 400-500 Rooks which nest in the Stornoway Woods and the trees of the burgh, and the score or so of Jackdaws that have appropriated the dis- used chimneys of the larger houses, where central heating has left them in peace. Many of the Lewis Ravens use the woods as a winter roost and 200-300 may be seen there and on the municipal dump. Nevertheless, Ravens are not uncommon else- where, feeding with the ubiquitous Hooded Crow and Great Black-backed Gull on roadside carrion mutton. A few Carrion Crows have recently made their way to Stornoway and evi- dence of interbreeding with Hoodies has become apparent. Chough are, regrettably, conspicuous by their absence. Spring and autumn see the arrival of waves of Icelandic and Scandinavian thrushes, Snow Bunting, Brambling and Waxwing up and down the Long Island and great numbers of Whooper Swan, geese, duck and waders. Families of Whoop- ers may be found on many of the coastal lochs all winter, sometimes with a very rare Mute Swan from the Uists. Grey- lag, Barnacle and Greenland White-fronted Geese winter in Lewis and on some Harris islands but the main bodies of these and of Pink-feet and Brent overfly. Long-tailed Duck, Com- mon Scoter and Wigeon occur in considerable numbers off- shore in Broadbay and in the two main estuaries in Harris at Luskentyre and Northton. These sites also contain the main concentrations of waders but suitable parts of the coastline have their share of the commoner species, and Nearctic vag- rants have been encountered in such numbers as to suggest that better coverage would reveal still more. Golden Plover, Greenshank and Common Sandpiper are moorland breeders; Dunlin, Oystercatcher, Lapwing and Ringed Plover birds of the shore at all seasons and Turnstone 156 BIRDWATCHING IN LEWIS AND HARRIS 12(5) and Purple Sandpiper winter denizens of the rocky places. Corncrakes are common around Stornoway and on the machair of both islands where Spotted Crake, Quail and Water Rail are sometimes seen or heard. Several pairs of Black-throated Divers breed on Lewis’s larger lochs and an unknown number of Red-throats are scattered throughout the length and breadth of Lewis and Harris. Great Northern Divers are a feature of Broadbay and the Sounds of Taransay and Harris in winter and spring. But it is seabirds that attract most visitors. Great and Arctic Skuas breed on the moorland adjacent to Broadbay, on whose gulls and terns they are parasites. Gannets from Sula Sgeir and St Kilda commute into and out of the Minch to feed, round the Butt or through the Sound of Harris, where good seawatching is available. Gallan Head and Tiumpan Head are also good vantage points for this purpose, with shearwaters and skuas particularly in mind. Fulmar and Kittiwake colonies are easily observed at Swordale, Tiumpan Head and the Butt of Lewis, and Razorbill and Guillemot on Tolsta Head. The ternery at Melbost has held several hundred pairs of Common ‘and Arctic and a few Little Terns but is under threat from developments to Stornoway aerodrome. There are isolated groups of all three species elsewhere. Herring, Lesser and Great Black-backed Gulls breed in moorland and coastal col- onies. Common Gulls are anything but common and most of the Black-headed Gulls nest on Loch Stiapavat in Ness. Stornoway Harbour and Broadbay are favoured resorts of Glaucous and Iceland Gulls in winter but they may be met with almost anywhere and occur regularly in Loch Roag and Tarbert. An Ivory Gull in Stornoway, Little Gulls at Butt of Lewis and a Ring-billed Gull at Shawbost are among the more exotic visitors recorded. Although not easily accessible to the visitor, there are sev- eral uninhabited off-lying islands worth mentioning. North Rona and Sula Sgeir, situated 72km north of Lewis, are of international interest for their oceanic vegetation and populations of seabirds and Grey Seals. The former island is one of the main breeding grounds of this seal and of Storm and Leach’s Petrels and attracts a great many migrant birds. ™ spring and summer it is a delightfully green and pleasant land, thronged with auks, gulls, and Fulmar, and breeding Great Skua, Eider and Shag. Only 16km to the westward lies the gaunt and forbidding pile of Sula Sgeir, summer home of many thousands of Gannets and a few auks and gulls. The young Gannets there have been harvested for local consump- tion since time immemorial by a hardy group of hunters from Ness in Lewis. Formerly a staple diet in Ness, the guga is still prized there and among exiled islanders but cannot be recom- AdPUDXA] UID ‘(6 Ae] dq Osye 99s) UONNadWoD d1ydeis0j0yg JOS Peyst[qeiss-A] Mau dy) Ul ezld Isaly WY UOM atfeoade5 4909 BJO Lapuexaly weg Aq Apnis siyy ‘OT ALVIg es Piate 17a. Although numbers are lower than in the past, Pochard still visit the Forth at Seafield in hard weather (p. 143). S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato b. Inthe Yarrow Valley—as elsewhere—tussocky rough grazing, a valuable habitat for breeding waders, is gradually giving way to improved dry pasture (p. 151). R. W. Furness | T ls ; Prate 18. Both Redshank and Lapwing breeding populations are likely to be adversely affected by drainage and improvement; Redshank because rough grazing is a favoured nesting habitat and Lapwing, which nest by choice on arable land, because access to damp grassland is esssential for the chicks. R. T. Smith Prate 19. Sam Alexander, Aberdeen, receiving from Mrs Una Smith the SOC Photographic Competition Shield donated by her husband, Don Smith. The fine action shot of an Arctic Skua below was placed second in the Competition. Upper - Don Smith Lower - Sam Alexander 1983 BIRDWATCHING IN LEWIS AND HARRIS 157 mended to a normal palate. The homecoming of the hunters . to Port Ness with their cargo of split and salted birds should not be missed. The Seven Hunters or Flannan Isles can be seen from wes- tern Lewis, 32km out in the Atlantic. Once inhabited by lighthouse keepers, they are now occupied only by an auto- matic light, sheep and many seabirds, including a small Gannet colony. Less is known of the birdlife than that of any other of the Hebrides and their isolation and inaccessibility except in a flat calm effectually discourage investigation. Visits may be arranged by chartered fishing boat from Breasclete or Bernera in Lewis. The Flannan Isles have produced, for ex- ample, the only Collared Pratincole in the Outer Hebrides and it is frustrating for a local birdwatcher to speculate what has turned up there undetected. Many readers will be familiar with the fate of the first keepers of the light at the turn of the century as related in ‘Flannan Isle’ by W. W. Gibson, “Three men alive on Flannan Isle who thought on three men dead’. On the other side of Lewis, in the Minch, lie the enchanted or Shiant Isles, truly magical places on a still summer day. Here the last of the native Ernes nested, their eyrie used until recently by a pair of Golden Eagles. This group of three pic- turesque islands can be reached by chartered fishing boat from Scalpay in East Loch Tarbert. From the west coast of south Harris several interesting islands may be visited; Taransay by charter from Seilebost; Pabbay, Shillay, Coppay, Haskeir, Ensay and Killegray by charter from Leverburgh; Berneray by daily ferry from Lever- burgh. None is of particular ornithological significance al- though Ensay and Killegray have wintering Barnacles and breeding Greylags. Interested readers are invited to consult Robert Atkinson’s evocative and entertaining accounts in his Island Going and Shillay and the Seals. In the parish of Harris is found what is probably the best known and certainly the best documented of the Outer Heb- rides—St Kilda. It is enough to draw attention to Harris & Murray’s Birds of St Kilda and to recommend a visit as the experience of a lifetime! My last visit coincided with that of a Laughing Gull, which was rather gilding the lily. Rockall, another 340km westward and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, might as well be mentioned too to com- plete the record but is likely to be of little more than theoretical interest to most readers. Peter Cunningham, ‘Aros’, 10 Barony Square, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis. 158 SURVEY OF BREEDING WADERS 12(5) Survey of breeding waders of agricultural land Summer 1982 saw the first full year of the breeding wader survey and it proved a resounding success. Over 90 partici- pants took part in surveying a total of 322 km? of farmland. Over 3500 pairs of waders were counted including 1651 pairs of Lapwings; 712 of Oystercatchers; 348 of Curlew; 318 of Redshank and 160 of Snipe. Because of the patchy distribution of observers in Scotland it was inevitable that some areas would be covered more thoroughly than others. The map shows the distribution of the areas covered (in km?). As we expected the ‘“‘blank”’ areas are the Northern Isles, the northern mainland, the western seaboard and Argyll. Area surveyed = 322.2 km? 1983 will be the final year of the survey and will be our last opportunity, not only to fill in some of the blank areas, but also to gather more valuable information from the areas of better coverage. If you took part in last year’s survey and would like to do so again, or if you have not yet taken part but would like to do so, please contact me at 96 Neilston Road, Paisley PA2 6EL. HECTOR GALBRAITH 1983 SHORT NOTES 159 Short Notes Work on Golden Eagle and Peregrine in northeast Scotland in 1982 This is the second annual summary by the North-East Scot- land Raptor Study Group. Observations on Peregrines were less intensive than for the all-Britain survey in 1981, but on Golden Eagles more intensive because of the 1982 all-Scotland survey. For both species the Group covered all known and likely sites in the counties of Aberdeen, Kincardine, Angus, Fife, Kinross, Perth east of the A9 road, and Banff except in the south-west corner of the Cairngorms. This is a slightly larger area than covered in 1981 (as it includes that part of Perthshire from the Glen Tilt road west to the A9 road). Please note that a printer’s error occurred in the 1981 sum- mary (Scottish Birds 12, p. 55). Under the Table heading ‘Known to have laid (probably laid)’, the Peregrine figures should read 41 (0), not 4 (10). Tabie Breeding in 1982 All lines except bottom one give no. of cases, not no. of eggs or young Golden Eagle Peregrine Home ranges or sites with pair or single bird present 45* 61f Adult pairs 25-26+ 52 Known to have laid (probably laid) 21(3) 44(2) Eggs failed to hatch (eggs or small young disappeared naturally) 3(3) 5(2) Fledged young seen (large chicks seen, not checked for fledging) 15(0) 23(5x) No. of young fledging 20-21 61 at leasty *In another 8 ranges, birds were considered or known to have come from adjacent ranges with breeding pairs tIn one range, adults were seen but no nest found; possibly adults were from an adjacent range Three other sites where a bird or birds were seen were thought to be probable alternatives for existing sites xAt a 6th nest, small young were seen and not checked later “#16 nests produced exactly 46 fledged young and 7 nests at least 15 fledged young Golden Eagle At least 25 pairs were located, of which 15 pairs bred suc- cessfully, about average. Snowstorms at the beginning of May probably accounted for the failure of at least two pairs. Pos- sibly because of the good summer, 20-21 flying young were raised, which is better than average. No eaglets were removed 160 SHORT NOTES 12(5) under licence for falconry purposes and there was no evidence that any eaglets had been removed illegally. The Group ringed four eaglets at three nests. In spite of the more intensive coverage of the area, only one ‘new’ pair was found. This home range was clearly a well- established one which had been overlooked because of the apparent unsuitability of the ground. Many more immatures and single adults were found than in 1981, however, and the overall picture obtained of the eagle population in northeast Scotland was a much surer one. On one point the Group is now a little wiser; telling ‘im- matures’ and ‘adults’ apart is not as simple as the books would have us believe! In two breeding pairs the female, with white wing patches and a conspicuous white base to the tail, would have been classified as ‘immature’ if seen away from the nest. In both cases fertile eggs were laid, and one of the pairs raised two young. In at least three other breeding pairs one of the birds had a prominent white base to the tail, although no white patches on the wings. In three long-established home ranges the Group found nests that had been built-up and lined but were empty; this strongly suggested that the eggs had been removed. Proof of this was not obtained unfortunately. At two other nests breeding failure could well have been due to human disturbance. In one case climbers in a snow gully kept the bird off the nest for well over an hour. When next visited the egg was deserted, and this pair did not relay. In the other case deserted eggs were found to contain embryos only a few days off hatching. A hundred yards away, in a depression in the heather, chocolate wrappings showed that people had stopped there. The Group found no direct evidence that gamekeepers had persecuted nesting eagles, and several keepers were clearly interested in ‘their’ eagles. The main prey items were Red Grouse and Mountain Hare, featuring about equally on the eaglets’ menu. In a few home ranges, Ptarmigan or Rabbits were also taken. More unusual items were a hen Capercaillie, a Short-tailed Vole (hardly likely to satisfy a growing eaglet), a nestling gull (probably Common Gull) and, at separate nests, remains of a lamb and a deer calf. Whether or not these latter two were picked up as carrion was impossible to say. As well as collecting records of prey, the Group also collected hundreds of pellets which have been sent to the Nature Conservancy Council for analysis, as part of their study on Golden Eagles. To coordinate the eagle survey in northeast Scotland, one member of the Group was employed by the RSPB. 1983 SHORT NOTES 161 Peregrine The proportion of pairs that failed was higher than average, probably due to robbing, but those that succeeded reared larger broods than average, perhaps because of the fine sum- mer. If the summer weather had been bad, as in 1981, it would have been a disastrous year. In 1982 only two pairs lost their eggs or small chicks through natural causes. In contrast to this, eggs disappeared and were probably robbed from four nests and possibly three more; only three of these pairs re- laid. Five complete broods of young were also considered to have been robbed, including two well-grown broods of three and four, and a sixth brood possibly robbed. None of these pairs relaid. The overall rate of unnatural loss, of eggs and young combined, was the highest recorded in the area since studies began there in 1965, and was slightly worse than in the bad year of 1976. Although most Peregrines in the study area were on grouse moors, most estates and their gamekeepers left them alone or helped to protect them. One pair was interfered with, how- ever; feathers from an adult hen provided suggestive evidence that she had been shot, and an immature hen had replaced her. Of the five pairs that did not hatch eggs, two were thought to have failed because of disturbance from visitors (not bird watchers). Birds were seen at five places on the coast, with pairs at four of them. Two of the pairs laid eggs and a third probably did so; one pair reared three young. Farmers at one place on the coast called the Peregrine the ‘cock o’ the doos’ because it kills so many doves. Apart from the usual prey of domestic pigeon and Red Grouse, some interesting prey items at moorland sites were a Turnstone, a Woodcock, a Jackdaw, a Collared Dove, a Sky- lark, a juvenile Dipper, four Starlings, three Blackbirds, and two Ring Ouzels. On one moorland cliff holding a Peregrine nest with four big chicks, a live racing pigeon was seen crouching! Prey at one lowland site included a Swift, a Cuckoo and a cock Kestrel. 162 SHORT NOTES 12(5) The Group ringed 43 young Peregrines. The skeleton of an adult cock was found on a roosting ledge, at a site where a pair raised young in 1982. Several new inland sites were found where a bird or birds were present, including new breeding pairs, and it seems likely that the inland Peregrine population in the area is still expanding slowly. This note is presented by two of us on behalf of the Group. SANDY PAYNE, ADAM WATSON Golden Eagle inter-action with Roe Deer and Fox On 14th February 1982 we watched an immature hen Golden Eagle land on a Deeside hill and then noticed a female Roe Deer 15 yards below and grazing towards her. At less than 10 feet away the deer stopped grazing and walked towards the eagle. At about 5 feet it stopped and the two looked at each other for a minute, then the Roe Deer jumped at the eagle, standing up and kicking out with her fore-legs, whereupon the eagle flew away. On 13th March, in the same area and under conditions of thick snow cover, we saw a Fox jump at an immature eagle as it flew low over a hill. The eagle landed 40 yards further along and the Fox soon joined it, holding its brush straight up as described by Gordon (1955, The Golden Eagle). We then noticed an immature hen eagle sitting only 10 feet from the Fox, on the opposite side from the male. The Fox bared its teeth at both birds, walked around both twice and then sat down for a minute and looked at them, baring its teeth. The Fox then began to jump at the eagles, snapping at them, and they flew a few feet away. Fox and eagles continued this be- haviour for 3-4 minutes, until the eagles finally flew off. There are many accounts of Foxes and eagles sparring (Gor- don, 1955, The Golden Eagle: 84-89, and Everett, 1977, The Golden Eagle: 36) but few involving the Fox as aggressor. We thank Dick Balharry for useful comments. IAIN MACLEOD, KEITH DUNCAN, INNES SIM Cuckoo eating young amphibians Between 12th August and 8th September 1981 a juvenile Cuckoo frequented my garden in the village of Ford, Mid- lothian. The garden is attractive to several species of am- phibians being relatively large with several damp areas, rough grass and stone walls. The adjacent field is rather wet and frogs Rana temporaria, toads Bufo bufo and newts Triturus spp. can be found in the area throughout the year. Young 1983 SHORT NOTES 163 frogs and toads (c. 1”/2.5 cm or less) often appear in the gar- den and were present in large numbers during the period de- scribed in this note. The Cuckoo was first seen from the house windows and soon became accustomed to people in the gar- den, which enabled closer observation, and allowed photo- graphs to be taken. The bird was often seen flying down to the ground from one of several perches. Through binoculars I was surprised to see that the bird was not picking up cater- pillars but small amphibians, which it ate on the ground before flying back to a perch. The long grass hampered obser- vation and I was not able to see whether it. was taking frogs, toads or a mixture of the two since both species were present in numbers. I did manage to photograph the bird when it was feeding and the resultant colour print confirms that the bird was taking small amphibians, though not the species involved. I did not record how long the Cuckoo spent feeding in the garden but it was seen taking amphibians on nearly every one of the 28 days it spent in the area. Though Cuckoos are well known for feeding on Lepidop- tera larvae which other birds avoid due to their hairy or nox- ious skins, I can find no previous records of Cuckoos taking amphibians or reptiles in Britain. I should like to thank Mrs E. Hamilton for confirming the identification of the amphibians and D. J. Bates for encourag- ing me to write this note. DUNCAN McDOoUuGALL Mr McDougall’s photographs, though not suitable for repro- duction, certainly confirm that the Cuckoo was taking small, tailless amphibians. The European Cuckoo feeds predomin- antly on caterpillars and beetles when on its breeding grounds and there appear to be no records of amphibians or reptiles being taken (Ian Wyllie, The Cuckoo, London 1981). However all Cuckoos seem to be adapted to eating prey with hairy, or even toxic, skins and several tropical species are known to take lizards and snakes, including venomous species.—EDs. Cormorant eating Lesser Octopus While I was ringing Cormorant chicks at a colony near Ballantrae, Ayrshire, one bird regurgitated the part-digested remains of a Lesser Octopus Eledone cirrhosa, about 80mm in body length with tentacles 75mm long. Cramp et al (1977, The Birds of the Western Palearctic, Vol. 1) make no mention of any Cephalapod amongst a long list of prey species eaten by Cormorants. Fish of several species were the main prey at this colony and these included the Butterfish Pholis gunnellus small specimens of the Flounder Platichthys flesus and the 164 SHORT NOTES 12(5) Sea-scorpion Taurulus bubalis, and medium sized examples of Grey Gurnard Eutrigla gurnardus, Common Eel Anguilla an- guilla and Pollack Pollachius pollachius, all of which are found in shallow waters and have little or no commercial value. The Lesser Octopus is common in the Clyde sea area at depths of 16 to 80 metres but the Common Octopus Octopus vulgaris is very rare. (Allan, 1962, The Fauna of the Clyde Area—Mollusca). Cormorants are probably capable of reach- ing greater depths than the 9.5 metres recorded in Cramp (1977), but in this case the Octopus may simply have swum out of its depth. My thanks are due to R. A. Jeffrey for his help. B. ZONFRILLO Letter Dear Editor, Counting Gannets at breeding colonies I feel that some comment should be made on the confusion in the liter- ature over censuses of Gannets at their colonies, for I believe that, however accurate the counts, there is still confusion about what is actually being counted. This is doubly regrettable because, although Gannets are among the most easily counted seabirds in the world, such confusion makes comparisons and conclusions highly contentious. “Nests” and “breeding pairs” both present problems. “Nests”, if the counter really means nests, exclude the often-substantial numbers of established site-owners which have little or no nest material but may go on to breed the next year. Nest counting from photographs is particularly difficult as few details of nest or suitability of site can generally be seen. “Breeding pairs’ are not easy to determine accurately, since one must distinguish failed-breeders from non-breeders and, depending on the month of the count, possibly from pairs that will breed that year. And of course this category excludes several categories of established non- breeders. I believe \hat the most appropriate unit is that of “occupied site”. This simpl, means that, at the time of the count ALL birds (apart from “club” birds congregated outside the limits of the breeding colony) which are attending a site at the colony, with or without nesting material, are counted as site-occupiers. If the count (photographic or direct) has been of all BIRDS present, then one need only correct the figure to take account of pairs, so that two birds on a site count as one site and not as two. I have dealt with this approach more fully in “The Gannet” (1978). Of course, more detailed assessments of parts (samples) of the colony, noting presence or absence of nest-material, eggs and chicks, are always valuable but usually possible only from direct examination with binoculars. The whole of a large colony could not possibly be treated with this degree of thoroughness. Since it is important that counts should be expressed in units which can be properly compared, may I suggest that interested seabirders co- operate in defining the best way to count Gannets at their breeding col- onies ? I would gladly collate responses and suggestions with a view to publishing an agreed version in Scottish Birds. J. BRYAN NELSON 1983 REVIEWS 165 Reviews A Scottish Naturalist. The Sketches and Notes of Charles St John 1809- 1856. Edited by Anthony Atha; Andre Deutsch, London 1982; 192 pages; 32 pages of colour and many black and white illustrations; 26 x 20 cms; £10.95. Charles St John is often regarded merely as a Victorian sportsman who shot Ospreys, but he was a writer of distinction, a keen observer and chronicler of nature and a self-taught artist. He wrote two books in his rather short life-time, Short Sketches ... from his journals, and A Tour in Sutherlandshire (not A Tour in Sutherland as cited in the book under TeVeOW): Natural History and Sport in Moray was published posthum- ously. The present work consists of extracts, mainly presented in diary form, selected from all three. These have been well chosen and carefully edited to read coherently, omitting the more blood-thirsty episodes, but with no indication from which book the various sections are drawn. The text is interspersed with St John’s own drawings and water-colour sketches: although many of his bird portraits simply look stuffed his black and white sketches are on the whole extremely lively and entertaining. These illustrations from his sketch-books are said to be published for the first time, apparently overlooking H. C. St John’s illustrated edition of Charles St John’s note-books, published in 1901. St John was not a Jardine or a MacGillivray, nevertheless A Scottish Naturalist is well worth reading, although one has to be careful of some of his assertions. From the historical aspect there is much of interest in his writing, for example his observations on crows and geese, and his very pertinent remarks on grouse-moor management. This is altogether a well produced good quality publication which puts St John in his true perspective as observer and writer. IAN DURANCE PENNIE The Birds of the West Midlands by Graham Harrison, Alan Dean, Alan Richards and David Smallshire; West Midland Bird Club, PO Box 1, Studley, Warwickshire, 1982; 494 pages; 82 plain photos; many tables, histograms, maps and drawings; 25 x 18 cm; £15.00, This book provides a fascinating insight into the ornithology and, indirectly, ornithologists of another part of Britain, and shows what can be achieved by an enthusiastic group of amateurs. Chapter one pro- vides a profile of the West Midlands. The area is then divided into seven regions, and chapters two to eight cover each region in turn. The main sites of interest are mapped for each region, and its geology and geo- graphy are described. Specific habitats, and the more interesting species of birds occupying them, are then considered. These chapters are very well written, and enable the reader to visualise the character of the region, and the effects of farming, quarrying, urbanisation, etc. on the bird community. The major part of the book (nearly 300 pages) is devoted to chapter nine, the systematic list. The text concentrates mostly, but not exclusively, on the fifty years 1929-1978, and is backed up by excellent tables_and histograms. However, the estimates of each species of bird in West Mid- lands must be viewed with considerable scepticism. The final chapter, giving breeding distribution maps, is disappointing. The maps are pase on 10 km squares, and combine information from the WMBC Atlas o 166 REVIEWS 12(5) Breeding Birds of the West Midlands and the BTO Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland. The period covered is 1966-1972 inclusive. Hence, the maps are a little out of date, and 10 km squares are possibly too large for a local atlas. However, the quality of the book is very high and, provided the buyer does not primarily want a local atlas of bird distributions, he should not be disappointed. The book must be worth the rather high cost (£15.00) to any birdwatcher with an interest in the West Midlands. S. T, BUCKLAND An Atlas of the Birds of the Western Palaearctic by Colin Harrison; Col- lins, London, 1982; 322 pages; 594 coloured maps; 810 line drawings; 4 text diagrams; £12.95. The 20 year interval since the publication of Voous’ classic ‘Atlas of European Birds” has seen significant advances in our knowledge of bird distributions and in our understanding of the factors that determine how these distributions, and the birds themselves, have evolved. This book is in many senses a second-generation version developing many of Voous’ ideas on zoogeography and taxonomy and attaching them to a much greater information base. Possibly the most valuable part of the book is the 30 page introduction that provides the reader with some means of interpreting the maps that follow. In addition to discussing climate and vegetation, there is some detail concerning the effect of prehistoric vegetation patterns on the present species distri- bution and how this, in turn, may have influenced the evolution of the populations involved. The concept of ecological counterparts of Euro- pean species in other parts of the Palaearctic is used throughout the book, the author baulking at calling them superspecies or species groups. This allows the reader to gain some appreciation of the manner in which fam- iliar species are replaced by related, but different, species elsewhere. To assist in this, every species discussed, including many only found in the eastern Palaearctic, are illustrated and mapped. The illustrations are limited to the most distinctive, usually male, plumage and are stylised in the typical field guide manner but are usually excellent in displaving the sometimes enormous and sometimes subtle differences between close- ly related species. The generally very accurate maps utilise colour and shading well to distinguish the different populations involved and in the case of Western Palaearctic species to show breeding and wintering areas. The use of a modified Mercator projection with its stretching of polar areas and shrinking of the southern limits of the Palaearctic was perhaps not the best choice of map projection, an equal-area projection possibly being better, but at least has the merit of being familiar to most readers. The cost of this well produced and thought-provoking book is reason- able and it can be recommended to anyone interested in bird distribu- tions and the factors that determine these distributions. R. D. MURRAY Gulls, a guide to Identification by P. J. Grant; Poyser, Calton, 1982; 280 pages; 376 plain photos; many drawings; £12.00. Another marvellous book from the Poyser stable, Peter Grant’s book on gulls is a painstakingly accurate work. Following the same layout as the European raptors guide (Porter, Willis, et al), each of the 23 species is given a detailed, individual treatment, with appropriate line drawings of each significant age group, The drawings are excellent, although some slight criticism could be levelled at the clarity of those in group one, and 1983 _. REVIEWS 167 the Glaucous/Iceland Gull ones left me with floaters in my eyes! The photographic section at the end has been carefully chosen to further illustrate age differences. At the end of the introduction to each group Grant correctly stresses the importance of familiarity with the commoner species before trying to convert, say, a Common Gull into Ring-billed, but the thoroughness with which each species is dealt should leave the honest observer in no doubt. For those of us who shudder at the word “seagull”, and who want to improve our ability to both identify and age this very accessible group of birds, this book is completely invaluable. ANGUS HOGG Care of the Wild by W. J. Jordan and John Hughes; Macdonald, London and Sydney, 1982; 198 pages; many drawings; softback; £4.95. This book covers the treatment of sick and injured wild life at an amateur level. The authors have wide practical experience with the RSPCA and a great deal of information is packed into the 200 pages. Inevitably with such a big subject there are many omissions and the section on the legal aspects is out of date. Nevertheless I was impressed with the practical common sense approach and the care taken to avoid glamourising this field or minimising the difficulties involved. This book will help to fill a big gap. J. F. HUNT The Garden Bird Book edited by David Glue; Macmillan in association with the British Trust for Ornithology; 1982; 208 pages; 12 colour and 50 plain photos; many drawings and diagrams; £7.95. When we are told that the area of all our gardens in Great Britain is roughly twice that of our National Nature Reserves, then even the most blasé ornithologist must sit up and take notice. This is a book for every- one interested in birds. Although there are several contributors there is a continuity of style, incorporating clarity of exposition, which makes the book a “good read” for the ordinary birdwatcher, whilst those with scientific leanings will appreciate the graphs so joyfully provided by the BTO statisticians and which are largely based on the results of their own Garden Bird Feeding Surveys. David Glue, as editor, has been well served by both contributors and publisher. This is a well produced book meriting the claim of ‘definitive guide” by the publisher, and we are sure it will have a wide appeal. MARION & STAN SHIMELD A Field Guide to the Birds of Japan edited and published by the Wild Bird Society of Japan, Tokyo, 1982; 336 pages; many colour illustra- tions and maps; £11.20 (available in Europe only from the SOC Bird Bookshop). This is an invaluable addition to the literature on Asian ornithology. Produced by the extremely active WBSJ this book increases enormously the information available in English on Japanese birds. It is in standard field-guide format, with the text and plates opposite each other, and employs the Peterson system with pointers high lighting the important field characters. The plates are of a high standard throughout and all the illustrations are by Shinji Takano, Japan’s foremost bird artist and an acknowledged expert on field characters. The text, compiled by a variety of authors is concise and accurate. Although small the distribu- tion maps are an extremely important feature of this work, since they 168 REVIEWS 12(5) cover the region from south-east Asia northwards and east to the Bering Sea, Thus they are also very useful for China and Korea. Any new guide has its faults and this one I would criticise for its lack of standardisation of the English names; they are an odd mixture of American and British. All too often descriptions omit calls, a particular shame because Japanese birdwatchers are especially good at describing bird songs and calls in written syllables. I would have welcomed supple- mentary, detailed distribution maps of those species regularly occurring in Japan, perhaps instead of the brief guide to birdwatching localities. The latter is of interest to those planning a trip, but too brief for use by residents. Despite any drawbacks, this is the book I carry into the field. Not only is it the best available in English, but it is also better than any so far available in Japanese. It will shortly be published in Japanese. M. A. BRAZIL The books reviewed above are available from the SOC Bird Bookshop. Current literature Articles and reports on the status and distribution of birds in Scotland are listed here. Strictly biological studies such as ecology or behaviour are excluded and so are references from the widely read journals British Birds, Bird Study, Ringing and Migration and Ibis. Most items listed and many others are available for reference in the club library and we are grateful to the contributors. The library welcomes copies of work on any ornithological subject. Perthshire Bird Report for 1981. (16 pp). E. D. Cameron (ed) 1982. £1 post free from Perth Museum & Art Gallery, George St, Perth. Borders Bird Report for 1981. (36 pp). R. D. Murray (ed) 1982. £1.10 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Expedition to the Outer Hebrides in 1979. Final Report. (103 pp). B. A. Pendle- bury (comp.) 1982. Royal Air Force Ornithological Society. Wildfowl and Wader Counts 1981-1982. (52 pp). D. G. Salmon (ed) 1982. Wild- fowl Trust. The abundance and distribution of intertidal invertebrates [in the Clyde estuary], and an estimation of their selection by Shelduck. D. B. A. Thomp- son 1982. Wildfowl: 33: 151-158. Clutch parasitism and nesting interference between Shelducks at Aberlady Bay [Forth estuary]. M. W. Pienkowski & P. R. Evans 1982. Wildfowl: 33: 159-163. Edinburgh Ringing Group Report for 1981. No. 9 (1982). (22 pp). 50p (75p by post) from J. H. Ballantyne, 6 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6NB. North-East Scotland Bird Report for 1980. (48 pp). Aberdeen University Pird Club 1981. Includes “Wintering Wildfowl at the Loch of Strathbeg 1954- 80” by M. V. Bell, and “Coasting movements by seabirds in North-East Scotland” by W. R. P. Bourne. North-East Scotland Bird Report for 1981. (47 pp). Aberdeen University Bird Club 1982. Includes “Wintering Wildfowl in the Ythan Valley” by M. V. Bell. W. G. HARPER 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 169 The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club SCOTTISH BIRD REPORTS The 1981 SBR is now available from the club secretary; please send cash with your order—£1.25 (members) or £1.75 (non-members), post free. Earlier reports are available on request. SUMMER EXCURSIONS Details of summer excursions arranged by branches are published on a separate sheet enclosed with this journal. LOCAL RECORDER Please note the following change : Argylishire, Inner Hebrides R. F. Coomber, 4 Staffa Cottages, Tobermory, isle of Mull, PA75 6PL. SOC ANNUAL CONFERENCE - 1983 The next conference and AGM will be held in the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, East Lothian, from 4-6 November 1983. Details will be published in Scottish Birds; bookings can only be accepted on the official booking - form which will be sent to all members with the autumn journal. 1982 RAFFLE The draw for the annual raffle took place after dinner at the conference on 6 November 1982. With the new arrangement of sending a book to every member (some received two in an excess of zeal by those who fill the envelopes !) we had to print many more tickets than usual. We wish to thank the benefactor who helped to reduce the printing bill consider- ably. Even with this help the total expenses were much greater than - before, amounting to £380 including the first prize of £50. We sold £1182 worth of tickets (£431 more than last year) giving us a net profit of £802 to put towards club funds, a net increase of £125. The new arrangement was obviously a success and will be repeated next year. We are extremely grateful to those members who, although not approving of raffles, returned their book with a donation. Our thanks also go to those firms, branches and members who donated all the prizes, and of course to all those who bought tickets. Well done! A list of winners can be obtained by sending an SAE to the club secretary. ANNUAL CONFERENCE The Thirty Fifth Annual Conference Each autumn some two hundred birdwatchers home in on North Berwick’s Marine Hotel to forget mun- dane matters like strikes, wars and disasters while old friends are greeted and only one topic fills the corridors : birds—studied, snapped, seen—or just imagined. The Club conference, organised with apparently effortless efficiency by Alastair Peirse-Duncombe and his colleagues, now runs to a familiar and wholly acceptable pattern and the 1982 model was no ex- ception. Friday night is traditionally members’ night, and last year we were carried from the Pribiloff Islands via Aberdeen, Ayr, and Galloway, over the Pyrenees through Spain to Africa, where we learnt that the Club has a member resident in (but one hopes not too far in) the Durban 170 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(5) sewage works. After this, a leap across to South America before ending with some stunning slides of the birds and scenery of the South Orkneys. Truly the talent behind the lens-caps of Club members never ceases to impress. For the main ‘meat’ of the conference on Saturday, we were offered three papers on the general theme of birds and their diet. Like a beauti- fully constructed cordon bleu meal, each course was a work of art in its own right, and the whole illustrated the vast diversity of the subject. Dr David Houston gave an absorbing account of the vultures of the Old World, emphasising their importance in the ecosystems of the African plains. Then Bernard Zonfrillo, after showing a slide of the globe from outer space and remarking casually “this is my study area”, talked about the feeding ecology of the petrel family, and chiefly about the fulmar. For me, at least, he added much new knowledge about a bird I thought I knew quite well. And lastly Chris Mead from the BTO explained the effects of the hard winter of 1981/82, showing how birds can survive by various subterfuges even in apparently harsh conditions. On Sunday morning Ian Gibson first summarised his studies of yellow wagtails in Ayrshire and North Lanarkshire. This attractive bird is one that few of us easterners will be familiar with, and the prognosis for this small and apparently isolated population, given recent changes in agricultural practice, is not good. Dr Mick Marquiss then outlined his research on herons in eastern central Scotland. This is designed primarily to see if the heron can be used as an indicator of chemical pollution of aquatic ecosystems and is producing much useful data about the bird’s life cycle. Progressing from species to habitats, John Hunt de- scribed the RSPB’s new reserves in Orkney and Perthshire and Bernard Gilchrist highlighted the interest in some of the SWT’s particularly ornithological reserves. Both speakers expressed their gratitude to the Club for the donation of the George Waterston Memorial Hides at Vane Farm and Montrose Basin respectively. The final event on the programme is always unusual. Last year John Burton of the BBC Natural History Unit at Bristol opened our eyes— and ears—to some of the fearful fankles we can get into when listening to birdsong, especially in southern Britain or Europe. How many of us realise that the call of a scops owl can be muddled with that of a mid- wife toad ? or a mole-cricket with a nightjar ? One always leaves North Berwick wondering ‘whatever will they think of for next year ?’ Well, we’ve only got to wait for the next issue of Scottish Birds to find out. E. F. B. SPRAGGE Notices North-East Scotland Ornithological Atlas Over the years 1981-84, an ornithological survey of all sites covered by the North-East Scotland Bird Report (Grampian region less Moray district) is being carried out. There are three main aims for the survey, Firstly, if a site is threatened by development, we will be able to supply information on the ornitho- logical value of that site. This will be achieved in two ways. Each site can be given an overall index, assessing its value, which will then be immediately available. More detailed information, listing all records re- ceived from a given site, can also be supplied, but the circulation of such lists will be limited, especially if they contain confidential records. The second purpose of the atlas is to assist ornithologists working in North- 1983 NOTICES 171 East Scotland, by providing basic information on the distribution and status of each species, and references to other work, if any, on the species. Thirdly, it is hoped that the survey will stimulate the interest of many people not just in birds but also in other aspects of the natural environment. The area covered by the scheme has been divided into 395 sites. An observer surveys a site by counting the number of each species of bird he sees, and by noting down evidence of breeding where appropriate. At the time of writing (August 1982), over a hundred people have taken part. All casual records submitted for the annual North-East Scotland Bird Report are also included in the analyses, so that the total number of participants is considerably greater. However, some areas, notably Banffshire, South Kincardineshire and parts of the Buchan plain, are very under-recorded, and any further offers of help would be very wel- come. If you can offer any help with this survey, or would like to receive newsletters summarising progress and giving some preliminary species distribution maps, please contact the survey organiser: Steve Buckland, Dept. of Statistics, University of Aberdeen, AB9 2UB. The XIX International Ornithological Congress will be held in Ottawa, Canada, from 22-29 June 1986. Details of the programme are not yet available but those interested in participating in the Congress are urged to inform the Secretariat in order to obtain announcements and applica- tion forms. Correspondence should be addressed to: The Secretary- General, Dr Henri Ouellet, XIX Congressus Internationalis Ornithologicus, National Museum of Natural Sciences, National Museums of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, KIA 0M§8, BTO Mute Swan Census 1983 As announced in Scottish Birds Vol. 12 No. 4 the BTO, in co-operation with the Wildfowl Trust and SOC, is under- taking a Mute Swan Census this spring with the aim of obtaining com- plete coverage of Britain. A list of local organisers for Scotland appears after page 172. Apart from aiming for complete coverage the survey will be run on the same basis as the 1978 census with the 10km square as the recording unit. During April and May observers will be asked to record the presence of pairs in territory and to confirm breeding by locating the nest or cygnets. Information from other months wiil also be welcome. Non-breeding birds will be counted in April. It is intended to publicise the census through local radio and press to stimulate public interest but it is hoped that many SOC members will participate and contact their local organiser. A. W. and L. M. Brown are co-ordinating the census in Scotland. RECENT REPORTS These notes include unchecked reports and are not intended as a permanent record, nor will they be indexed. Please send reports to Pete Ellis, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, via local recorders, at the end of March, June, September o December. The period October to December is coverea here. In EARLY & MID-OCTOBER periods of easterly winds & bad weather brought a series of tremendous falls of drifted migrants to Scotland. ‘he east coast & northern isles were inundated with birds: numbers were greatest in the south & the biggest fall occurred around 10-11 Oct. Several lucky birders on the Isle of May were overwhelmed by the 22,000 mig- 172 RECENT REPORTS 12(5) rants which carpeted the island. Many Siberian birds were seen up & down the coast amongst the Goldcresis, Robins & Blackcaps, but numbers were so large as to ensure that many rarities must have sli undetected. ‘ SHER Oe There was an influx of Rough-legged Buzzards with at least 14 betwee St Abbs and Shetland. Single Spotted Crakes appeared at Fair Isle, Out Skerries & Drums (Abdn), a Pectoral Sandpiper at Girdleness, & Hoopoes in the Lammermuirs, at St Andrews & on Whalsay. Great Spotted Wood- peckers—probably of Scandinavian origin—were seen in Shetland & Caithness. Fair Isle had Short-toed Larks & an Ojlive-backed Pipit; Rich- ard’s Pipits appeared there & at Spiggie & Out Skerries. The Isle of May produced a Rurous Bush Robin on 10 Oct. & held 4,000+ Robins on 11th. A Thrush Nightingale was seen at Fife Ness & Bluethroats at the Isle of May, Fair Isle, Shetland & Aberdeen. Black Redstarts were more numerous than usual with at least 19 between Aberdeen & Shetland. Stonechats of the Siberian races maura/stejnegeri occurred at Rattray Head, Fair Isle, Out Skerries & Whalsay between 6th & 24th, & Fair Isle also had a Lanceolated Warbler on 6th, 20 Ring Ouzels on llth & a Biack-throated Thrush on 13th. Icterine Warblers occurred at Unst & Wick, while a male Orphean Warbler was caught by a lucky ringer in Aberdeen. Large numbers of Blackcaps occurred all along the east coast, with 150 on Fair Isle and 600 on the Isle of May on 11th. An amazing aspect of these falls was the unprecedented number of Pallas’s Warblers, at least 53 between St Abbs & Shetland. They outnumbered the more regular Siberian visitor, the Yellow-browed Warbler, of which only 10 were reported. Other noteworthy visitors were Radde’s Warbler (also of Siberian origin) in Shetland & Orkney, a Dusky Warbler at St Abbs, 9 Red-breasted Flycatchers & 26 Great Grey Shrikes. Parrot Crossbills arrived in numbers for the first time since 1962, with 27 reported from Shetland, Fair Isle, Orkney, Caithness, Perth & North Uist, but only 3 Searlet Rosefinches were seen. On the southern part of the east coast the most memorable feature of this remarkable fall was undoubtedly the huge number of Goldcrests—at least 2,000 at St Abbs on 10th & an astonishing 15,000 on the Isle of May on 11th. LATE OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER were characterised by a series of deep depressions which crossed the Atlantic, bringing with them relatively mild weather & some unexpected birds. These included a Ring-necked Duck in Shetland on 24 Oct. & a Teal of the American race carolinensis in Inverness in November. Several lucky people saw the white Gyr Falcon found on a North Sea oil rig & released near Aberdeen in November. A Long-tailed Skua passed Peterhead on 23 Oct & there was a Mediterranean Gull at Banff on 17th, an immature Bonaparte’s Gull in Unst on 21st, & a superb Ross’s Gull at Scalloway from 26-29 Dec. One of the best autumns on record for American land-birds arriving in Britain brought several to Scotland, but it is anyone’s guess how many reached our shores never to be seen by birders. Those reported included a Grey-cheeked Thrush in Shetland, an American Robin on Foula, a Yellow-rumped Warbler on North Uist, & Britain & Ireland’s third American Redstart on Islay (on 1 November). STOP PRESS. Laughing Gull at Barassie, Ayr on 8-9 Jan 1983 & Kill- deer near Bo’ness, W Lothian from late January. PETE ELLIS POSTSCRIPT. A full analysis of this remarkable October fall is in preparation and will be published later in the year. If accepted by BBRC the Orphean Warbler and Rufous Bush Robin mentioned above will be the first recorded for Scotland, while Killdeer has previously been recor- ded only once—in 1867 and under slightly dubious circumstances !—Eds. BTO MUTE SWAN CENSUS 1983 Scotland A LIST of the local organisers for Scotland is given below, and anyone ~“ who is interested in helping with the census either within their own county or elsewhere in Scotland is asked to write to the relevant organ- iser. If in doubt please contact the Scottish organisers, A. W. & L. M. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 ONB. Shetland Dr B. Marshall, Symbister, Whalsay, Shetland. Orkney P. Reynolds, Berrybank, Evie, Orkney. Outer Hebrides Dr C. J. Spray (see Aberdeenshire.). Caithness Mrs P. M. Collett, Sandyquoy, East Gills, Scrabster, Caith- ness, KW14 7UH. puted (East) D. MacDonald, Elmbank, Dornoch, Sutherland, IV25 Sutherland (West) Dr I. D. Pennie, 5 Badcall, Scourie, Sutherland, IV27 4TH. Ross-shire C. G. Headlam, Dallachie, Fearn, Tain, Ross-shire, IV20 1TN. Inverness-shire R. A. Broad, 5 Birch Place, Culloden, Inverness-shire, IV1 2LB. Nairnshire, Morayshire Dr R. Richter, 55 Dunbar Street, Burghead, Morayshire. Aberdeenshire, Banffshire Dr C. J. Spray, Culterty Field Station, New- burgh, Ellon, Aberdeenshire, AB4 OAA. Kincardineshire D. Carstairs, Rose Cottage, Lamonfauld Road, Hillside, Montrose, Angus. Angus N. K. Atkinson, Tadorna, 5 Tolmount Crescent, Montrose, Angus, DD10 9DQ. Perthshire E. D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perth- shire, PH2 6RZ. Stirlingshire, Clackmannanshire H. Robb, 27 Victoria Place, Stirling, Stirlingshire, pa aa Fife Mrs W. Mattingley, 49 Elizabeth Street, Tayport, Lothians A. W. & L. M. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Mid- lothian, EH26 ONB. Ayrshire, Arran, Bute, Cumbrae R. H. Hogg, Kirklea, 11 Kirkmichael Road, Crosshill, Maybole, Ayrshire, KA19 7JR. Peeblesshire, Selkirkshire, Roxburghshire, Berwickshire R. J. Robert- son, 99 Howden Road, Jedburgh, Roxburghshire, TD8 6JT. Argyllshire, Inner Hebrides S. Newton, 11 Jameson Place (2nd Floor), Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 8NZ. Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire I. P. Gibson, Arcadia, The Glen How- wood, Renfrewshire. Lanarkshire Dr E. S. Alexander, 3 Lilac Hill, Hamilton, Lanarkshire, ML3 7HG. Dumfriesshire Dr E. Fellows, West Isle, Islesteps, Dumfries, Dumfries- shire, DG2 8ES. Kirkcudbrightshire Miss J. E. Howie, 60 Main Street, St John’s Town of Dalry, Kirkcudbrightshire, DG7 3UW. Wigtownshire G. Sheppard, The Roddens, Leswalt, Stranraer, Wig- townshire. THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB MPHE Scottish Ornithologists’ Club was formed in 1936 and membership is open to all interested in Scottish Ornithology. Meetings are held during the winter months in Aberdeen, Ayr, the Borders, Dumfries, Dun- dee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, New Galloway, St Andrews, Stirling, Thurso and the Wigtown District at which lectures by prominent ornith- ologists are given and films exhibited. Expeditions are organised in the summer to places of ornithological interest. The aims of the Club are to (a) encourage the study of Scottish ornith- ology and to promote an interest in wild birds; (b) co-ordinate the activi- ties of Scottish ornithologists; (c) encourage ornithological work in Scotland; (d) encourage conservation of Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) hold meetings for discussion and to arrange ornithological field meetings, and (f) appoint local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology, including Scottish Birds, the club journal. There are no entry fees for Membership. The Annual subscription is £7.50, or £3 in the case of Members under twenty one years of age or Students under 25, who satisfy Council of their status as such at the times at which their subscriptions fall due. The Life subscription is £150. Family Membership is available to married couples and their nominated children under 18 at an Annual subscription of £11, or a Life subscrip- tion of £225. Scottish Birds is issued free to Members but Family Mem- bers will receive one copy between them. Subscriptions are payable on lst October annually. Scottish Birds, which is published quarterly, includes papers, articles and short notes on all aspects of ornithology in Scotland. The club also publishes the annual Scottish Bird Report. Application for Membership form, copy of the Club Constitution, and other literature are obtainable from the Club Secretary, Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe, Scottish Centre for Ornithology and Bird Protection, 21 Regent Terace, Edinburgh, EH7 5 BT (tel. 031-556 6042). APPLICATION FORM Pe Cer eee rere ees eeeseeesee ese seseeeseeseteseseseHesesesnsnne Date of birth if under 21 or student under 25 (or nominated child under 18 on family membership) __...................05 Type of Membership’ «i ..3sjeccc.didceadacawon Sones aneacee I enclose cheque/postal order/cash for £.................. Signature ......... ls satetarasvoleiaiedeje S oelslelslotu wialaiats a sioielesieieatoricie cities PropOSed" DY ics icsdakveks snchaacesaaas ovaenegteseeduansereeds Seconded! DY a srvcccaiiscacctact esas pacer aecaensonscemmamesiers (If you do not know any members who can propose or second you please leave blank) Please detach and send with your subscription to The Club Secretary, Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT. *Notes— 1. Those entitled to draw the State old age pension may pay a reduced subscription of £4.50 (single) or £6.50 (family) on application to the Club Secretary. é 2. Banker’s Order and Deed of Covenant forms can be supplied by the Club Secretary. epaane BIRDS OF THE ARCTIC You have a good chance of seeing some rare Arctic birds if you go on an Erskine Expedition. These mostly last 24 weeks in June, July and August and are led by experts. Gyr falcon, Sabine’s Gull, Ivory Gull, Arctic Redpoll and Snowy Owl were seen last year. And many species of geese, waders and auks are around in large numbers in the relevant habitats. There are camping treks in three wild parts of Greenland and Baffin Island, or stay at hostels in Iceland, South Greenland or Alaska, or cruise in a converted fishing boat in Spitsbergen (80°N), landing each day. You will also see mammals like the Muskoxen, Reindeer and Ermine, and many boreal flowers including the elusive ‘spider plant’. £780 up, inclusive from Glasgow. Write, stating special interests, to ERSKINE TOURS, 14 Inverleith Place, Edinburgh ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure, Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Tobermory (0688) 24 South Uist Spend an enjoyable holiday among the birds of moorland and machair...an excellent area for birdwatching all the year round. B & B, packed lunch and evening meal; all home cook- ing. Parties catered for. Open all year round. Write for details to: Mrs C. MacAskill Drimisdale House Lochboisdale, SOUTH UIST Orkney Isiands ROUSAY Enjoy good food and comfortable accommodation at the licensed TAVERSOE HOTEL the ideal centre for ornithologists. Within easy walking distance, Rousay offers a range of habitat unique to a small island. Moorland, cliffs, lochs and sea shore attract over 300 species including many birds of prey. Brochure from: IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, ORKNEY Tel. 085682 325 BREE BAAR AEOAUPZ_A_ARLROR’ Isle of Jura on See Jura’s birds of prey and other rare species (we) Delightful modern bungalow with all amenities and beauti- ful views. Three bedrooms, electric blankets, immersion heater, well-fitted kitchen. FOR FULL DETAILS TELEPHONE 041 - 946 - 4361 (evenings only) GREENLAND WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE STUDY Report of 1979 Expedition to West Greenland. Describes breeding biology and general ecology of the geese, with detailed accounts of associa- ted species and habitats, plus expedition hints. 317 pp, tables, diagrams. £8 plus £1.35 p. & p. From : GWGS, Biology Dept., U.C.W. Aberystwyth, Dyfed CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. RSPB FREE BOOK — IF YOU JOIN US NOW If you are not already a member of the RSPB why not join us today and receive completely free our full colour, 64 page book, ‘Gardening with Wildlife’ or the invaluable field companion, Mitchell Beazley’s ‘Birdwatchers Pocket Guide.’ Simply send your first year’s subscription of £9 to RSPB, Scottish Office, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 SBN, and we will send you your member’s pack and free book by return. SS Latest Films SS Do not miss the Scottish Premieres of the RSPB’s two new films which, along with a newsreel, take place over the next few weeks. The films are: Pinkfoot — From Scotland to Iceland, a spectacular look at the life of the Pink-footed Goose. and Heritage of the Forest — A fascinating insight into the birds and wildlife of our woodlands. They can be seen at the following venues: RG Glasgow The Mitchell Theatre Sat. Sth March (2.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m.) Edinburgh George Square Theatre Sat. 12th March (2.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m.) Mon. 14th March (7.30 p.m.) Tues. 15th March (7.30 p.m.) Inverness Eden Court Theatre Wed. 30th March (7.45 p.m.) *S}SI| 291d pue anBbojee9 Paze43SnI|! 40) sdwe}s dgz puas Pe ySIA | *93130U }NOYJIM abueyo 0} yalqns sadiig ree “palysizes 30U 4! pausnjad Aauoy = *pa}els asiMuay}O a1ayM }daox—a Sdesjs pue-ased apnjou! saaid jy “e13xe “yaquinu.AnoOA ~ 00'Z3 S!. eoueinsul pue bulysed “sod: --a30nb 3snf[ — aworzjam = 4ynq “| V/A apnjau! pazonb seoud jy SsedoVy7 pue piesAejaieg “a,euiIxosdde. a1e si4ybiam IW. 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Germany, is ideal for birdwatching and all general purposes. It has many features usually found on much more expensive models. Allow 21 days for delivery. Full iam Meret tar Taare “a money refund if not satisfied ribbed se Si ee provided goods returned in unused a Please send me pairs of 8 x 30 de luxe Binoculars condition. : at £19.95 + £2p &p (total £21.95) per pairinc. VAT. i | enclose cheque value i erdrion 1 or please charge my Barclaycard/Access no. | van) Charles Frank Lid : 111 T TTT At Edinburgh Cameras, J Signature 57 Lothian Road. Wettec ces Tel: 031-229 3363. i fi Address | Head office and mail order P.O.Box5, | Ronald Lane, Saxmundham, i iene | Suffolk IP17 2NL. Tel: 0728 3506. cee ce een Stee, om oo SS Orkney Islands ROUSAY Enjoy good food and comfortable accommodation at the licensed TAVERSOE HOTEL the ideal centre for ornithologists. Within easy walking distance, Rousay offers a range of habitat unique to a small island. Moorland, cliffs, lochs and sea shore attract over 300 species including many birds of prey. Brochure from: IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, ORKNEY Tel. 085682 325 South Uist Spend an enjoyable holiday among the birds of moorland and machair...an excellent area for birdwatching all the year round. B & B, packed lunch and evening meal; all home cook- ing. Parties catered for. Open all year round. Write for details to: Mrs C. MacAskhkill Drimisdale House Lochboisdale, SOUTH UIST ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure. Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Telephone (0688) 2464 CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. PEREGRINE Holidays 1983 - 84 Special Interest Tours obo, Directors s wh % RAYMOND HODGKINS MA(OxON) A PaTRICIA HODGKINS MTAI 5 V SS NEVILLE WYKES FAAI ‘A’ Fully Bonded WITH GUEST LECTURERS AND A TOUR MANAGER: BY AIR and Inclusive *Provisional BIRDS OF MACEDONIA Aug 27-Sep 10 _ ‘Birds, History £550 Lakes Prespa and Ochrid (Pelicans, Spoonbills), Ochrid’s unique Byzan- tine Churches and Museum. Axios Delta. Angelohori Saltpans. Lakes Koronia, Vergoritis and Kastoria, Thessalonika (Roman and Byzantine Ruins). Accompanied by John Parrott, B.Sc. N. INDIA AND NEPAL Oct 12-29 __ Birds, Wildlife £1550 Delhi (Sightseeing, Sultanpur Jheels), Agra (Red Fort, Taj Mahal, Sik- andra), (Fatehpur Sikri), Bharatpur (3 days), Jaipur (2 days) Rambagh Palace, Jai Sing’s Observatory, Amber Palace; Kathmandu, Gaida Camp (3 days). With James Hancock, Esq. AUTUMN IN CRETE’ Nov 3-17_ Birds, Sites *£390 Based in the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel, Agios Nikolaos. Optional tours to Knossos, Phaestos, Agia Triada, Gortyne, Mallia, Kato Zacro, Sitia, Vai, Kritsa and Lato, Gournia, Jerapetra, Lassithi. E. D. Johnson Esq. (Birds), William Taylor Esq., M.A., A.Dipl., F.R.I.B.A. (Sites). THE GAMBIA Nov 30-Dec 7_ ‘Birds *£395 Unbeatable value at the pleasant Hotel Bokatu. Full board, with John Parratt, B.Sc., an expert on West African birds to accompany through- out. £90 extra for a further week (unaccompanied). Optional river cruise. CHRISTMAS IN CRETE Dec 20-Jan 3 Birds, Flowers, Archaeology *£395 Revived by popular request, as always at the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel, Agios Nikolaos. We hope to have Dr Jim Clegg, David Myles, Esq., B.A. and Hugh Synge, Esq., B.A. to produce the same pleasant mixture of relaxation, excursions and evening talks. AUSTRALIA AND INDONESIA _ Feb 5-25 *£2000 James Hancock, Esq., of ‘Herons of the World’ fame was the inspira- tion of this tour which he will accompany. Darwin, N.W. Coast tidal marshes, Arnhem Land, Ayers Rock, Great Barrier Reef, Komodo Jakarta. Raymond Hodgkins for admin. As far as we know a unique tour. SPRING IN ARGOLIS Mar 22-31 Archaeology and Flowers *£295 At the ever popular Minoa Hotel, Tolon, where the three Georgidakis sons Jannis, Aris and Niko have been our friends for years. Visits Nauplia, Mycenae, Tiryns, Argos, Lerna, Epica Sparta, Mistra and Taygetus Mountains. William Taylor, F.R.I.B.A. for archaeology. Botanist to be named. Eo ____________" PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN & GOWN TRAVEL 40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JP Tel. Oxford (0865) 511341 SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 6, SUMMER 1983 Page Editorial wu bes se sete 173 Seabird populations of the Isle of May (M. P. Harris & H. Galbraith) es “a ze 174 Breeding waders of the Caithness flows (T. M. Reed, . R. Langslow & F. L. Symonds) ... ste 180 Birdwatching in the Eighties—Fair Isle (N. Riddiford) ee 186 Short Notes Dotterel numbers & breeding in the Central eat sae (P. S. Thompson) 190 Successful breeding of Brambling i in Inverness- shire (R. H. Bucknall)... 6 191 High-rise Willow Warbler (K. “‘Brockie) ae cer 193 Non-breeding territorial aggression vy Peregrine (E. . Spragge) 193 Fledgling Merlins catching moths (R. Cc. Dickson) 194 Petrels and predators (W. R. P. Bourne) _... a 194 Osprey taking up wee -stretch Boreas (K. Duncan, I. C. McLeod) dag és 194 Fieldwork Reports aa me aay se ee 195 Reviews and Current Literature... wae Ads vats 198 The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club he ime ae 202 Notices e oe a a see ae 203 Recent Reports (Pte Ellis) cas me ie ode 203 Scottish Bird Report 1981 sad se fe wae 204 Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe BIRDWATCHING HOLIDAYS We offer a wide variety of birdwatching holidays throughout the world and UK for beginner and expert alike. We are pleased to announce three addi- tional autumn destinations for this year: Malaysia/Borneo 25 Sep/14 Oct Morocco 09 Oct/21 Oct California 22 Oct/06 Nov plus our usual destinations of Gibraltar, Camargue, etc. Our full 1984 programme will be launched in Sep- tember and includes some exciting new destinations: Autumn: Korea, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea Spring : Ethiopia, Cyprus, Canaries Summer : Yugoslavia, SW Spain, Sri Lanka FOR FULL DETAILS OF THE ABOVE TOURS AND ANY OTHER SPECIALISED TRAVEL APPLY TO: IBIS TOURS (ARRANGED BY FURNESS TRAVEL LIMITED, A MEMBER OF THE FURNESS WITHY GROUP) 148 GLOUCESTER ROAD NORTH, FILTON, BRISTOL. TELEPHONE (0272) 791172 & 695050. TELEX 449840. ATOL 543BC. SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Volume 12 No. 6 Summer 1983 Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and S. R. D. da Prato Editorial The end of an era It is a little over 20 years since Ruby Smillie joined the staff of the SOC. Many members have come to know her as the friendly voice at the other end of the phone, even though they may never actually have met her. And her cheery welcome at the registration desk will be warmly remembered by all who have attended conferences. Not only has Ruby been extremely efficient as membership secretary, but she has also been a first class PR person for the Club. Her long service, which ended on May 3lst, will be suitably acknowledged by the President at a small ceremony early in June, but we feel that members would wish us to record here the Club’s thanks to Ruby for all she has done for the SOC. We wish her, and her husband Jimmy a long, happy and satisfying retirement. Photographic competition Members are reminded that entries for our photographic competition should be submitted by 30 September. Last year we had a somewhat disappointing response; we would hope that 1983 will see a big increase in the numbers participating. Photographs must be of wild birds in Scotland and be taken in the two years prior to the closing date; there is no limit on the number of entries each photographer may submit. Black- and-white prints will be preferred but colour transparencies will also be accepted; entries will be retained for possible use in Scottish Birds unless a SAE is enclosed for their return. The competition will again be judged by a panel of three; the winner will receive the Shield donated by Don Smith (see photo in SB 12: 5); and bookshop credits of £10 and £5 will be awarded as first and second prizes. The main purpose of this competition is to help raise the standard of photographs appearing in SB—so if you feel that you can produce some- thing worth publishing, do send in an entry. An appeal to artists As several readers have commented on the fact that the 174 EDITORIAL 12(6) same vignettes have been appearing on these pages with mono- tonous frequency, we feel that a brief explanation of the sit- uation may be helpful. At present our printing is done mainly by letterpress and blocks have to be made for the vignettes; these cost around £10 each. Within a relatively short time our printer expects to change over to a litho system, which will allow drawings to be used direct, without the need for blocks. Under the circumstances it seems silly to spend much money on blocks, which will be required for only a short time, but it has been decided that a few new ones should now be obtained. In anticipation of the time when we will be able to use fresh illustrations in each issue, we invite those members who possess artistic talents to start drawing now! Seabird populations of the Isle of May M. P. HARRIS and H. GALBRAITH The numbers of cliff-nesting seabirds on the Isle of May have increased greatly in recent years and the island is now an internationally important colony. Its seabird communities have been studied for many years and must be among the best-documented in the country. The recent increase in numbers of seabirds nesting on the Isle of May, Firth of Forth has resulted in the island now having one of the highest densities of seabirds in the North Sea. Here we give details of recent counts of Fulmars, Kitti- wakes, Guillemots and Razorbills. Older counts are documen- ted by Southern (1938) and Eggeling (1974) and the changes in status of Shags are discussed by Galbraith (1981), of Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls by Duncan (1978, 1981), and of Puffins by Harris (1977, 1983). Methods and material Counts were made during June or early July 1973-81 by ourselves or Nature Conservancy Council personnel; most were from the land but Kittiwake nests in caves were counted from a boat. Single complete island counts were made in many years and in addition, between 1978 and 1981, several annual counts of Guillemots and Kittiwake nests were made in carefully defined study plots. Two complete counts made in 1979 and 1981 are shown in Table 1, as they give some idea of the variation in counts, but the annual mean is used in the calculation of rates of increase. Earlier counts are taken from Eggeling (1974) and Bird Obser- 1983 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 175 vatory and NCC records. Counts outwith mid-May to mid-July are ex- cluded. Some published estimates allowed 10% for hidden birds or nests but where possible we have used the actual count. Some of the older counts of auks were expressed aS pairs, presumably individual birds were counted and the total later converted to pairs; it is not clear what conversion factor was used. Most of the complete censuses were single counts and are therefore of unknown, but it can be assumed, low accur- acy. The units counted were as follows: Fulmar: Sites suitable for breeding with one or two birds present. Kittiwake : Nests with one or two birds present. Guillemot : All individuals on the cliffs (excluding those on tidal rocks). In 1981 a detailed breeding biology study was made of a group of 150- 200 birds and the birds present there were counted before or after counts of other parts of the colony. A total of 98 pairs definitely laid eggs. The ratio of birds to pairs in this group at the time of the island count was used to convert 1981 counts of individuals to pairs. There were a further eight pairs resident in the group which were never seen with eggs so the population estimates could be 8% higher than calculated. In 1972-76 pairs refer to counts of incubating birds; such counts are thought to be underestimates of the true population. Razorbill : Either individuals or occupied sites (where one or two adults were present at places suitable for breeding). In 1981 the two total counts of individual birds were converted to pairs using factors (0.40 for first count, 0.48 for second count) derived from the mean of five daily counts of birds at a group of 11 pairs. Razorbills are extremely erratic in their colony attendance and the 95% confidence intervals on these conversion factors were large (0.32 - 0.48 and 0.36 - 0.60 respectively). Rates of increase have been calculated from linear regressions of counts (natural log) against year using all available counts (n) over the stated period; r is the correlation coefficient. Since 1978 Kittiwake nests and individual Guillemots in three and eight sample plots respectively have been counted between 0700-1500 GMT on several days each June. In 1980 and 1981 Razorbills were coun- ted in 10 plots. Differences between mean counts in different years were tested using student’s t-tests. Throughout this paper the term significant is used solely in its statistical sense of differences significant at the 5% level. Results A summary of counts is given in Table 1 and details of recent counts are deposited at NCC and SOC offices in Edinburgh. Fulmar Birds started prospecting in 1921 and the first pair probably bred later that decade although the first chick was not seen until 1930. Since then the mean annual rate of increase has been 7.0% (n 18, r 0.98) with an even faster rate (14.8%) between 1975-81 (n 7, r 0.91). Kittiwake The population varied from 1900-3000 nests in 1921-52 and reached a low of c. 1000 nests in 1954. In the period 1954-81 it increased significantly at a mean annual rate of 4.9% (n 13, r 0.92). Breeding started on the low eastern cliffs in 1954 and by 1981 there were 600 nests there— an annual increase of 16% (n 10, r 0.97). Numbers on Rona increased from 15 pairs in 1969 to c. 250 pairs in 1981; this annual rate of 24.6% (n 7, r 0.99) is far in excess of that for the rest of the island (4.9% n 6, r 0.83). These new areas are obviously now very attractive to Kitti- wakes, or possibly it is becoming very hard for new pairs to find sites on the densely packed west cliffs. Since 1979 birds have nested 80m 176 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 12(6) ane on the slopes above the loch and in 1982 a pair bred at Holyman’s oad. The study plots showed a mean annual rate of increase 1978-81 of 2.3% but there was much variation both between years and between plots. The bulk of these plots are in areas which appear, subjectively, to be fairly crowded, so changes in numbers may not accurately represent the change in the overall population. Table 1 Some counts ef seabirds on the Isle of May Fulmar Kittiwake Guillemot Razorbills sites nests pairs birds sites birds 1880’s 0 hundreds 300 few hundreds or thousands 1921 0 1900 2600 360 1922 2 1924 2350 1660 160 1936 4 2950 2100 500 1946 7 2000 2000 400 1952 19 2000 375 1954 21 980 2000 1955 37 2000 2000 1959 1650 1966 30-35 2140 1967 40 1969 53 3100 9000 340 1971 3120 1972 3400 3500 1973 68 3110 3360 440 1974 91 2840 3920 9730 410 1975 72 3520 3880 11300 480 1976 57 3080 3790 370 1977 62 1978 94. 1979 108/96 4840/4380 1980 131 1981 132/144 6110/ 12000/ 16920/ 840/ 2090/ 6120 10300 15700 1010 2080 Notes ad 1. Counts of auks and Kittiwakes are rounded to the nearest ten. 2. Two figures for 1979 and 1981 refer to two completely separate counts. 3. Units (pairs/birds) according to the source (see text). Guillemot In 1888 there were 300 “pairs” (Raeburn in Baxter and Rin- toul 1953), in 1969 there were 9000 birds. This increase continues with 9730 individuals in 1974 and 16,000-17,000 in 1981—a mean annual in- crease 1969-81 of 5.1% (n 4, r 0.95). Increases have occurred in all areas and many new parts of the island have been colonised, e.g. the Maiden’s Hair had eight eggs in 1972 and 100+ birds in 1981, Rona had three in- cubating birds in 1975 but 166 individuals in 1981. Birds now breed in some areas such as Burrian which appear hardly suitable. The mean number of individuals in the monitoring plots increased from 1126 to 1258 between 1978 and 1981, a mean annual rate of increase of 4% p.a. which is not dissimilar to the 5% increase calculated for the whole colony (total counts of birds) between 1969 and 1981 or 6% be- 1983 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 177 tween 1975 and 1981. Examination of annual changes in the total number of birds in all the plots shows an overall increase of 3% between 1978- 79, a 1% decrease between 1979-80 and a 9% increase between 1980-81 (Table 2). Only the last change was significant. If we consider the annual changes in the mean numbers of birds in each of the eight individual plots we find very different changes, not only in magnitude but in direc- tion. Thus between 1978-79 4 plots showed an increase in numbers and 4 a decrease (range of changes —8% to +48%), between 1979-80 4 plots increased and 4 decreased (—18% to +22%) and between 1980-81 7 plots increased and 1 decreased (— 1% to +32%). Such heterogeneity in annual changes in numbers of individuals in different parts of the colony em- phasises that care is needed in interpreting population changes based on a small number of study plots containing a small proportion of the total population. Table 2. Changes in numbers of birds in study plots on the Isle of May 1978 1979 1980 1981 n mean nm mean n mean n mean +SE +SE +SE +SE Kittiwake 3 346 4 341 4 371 4 374 (nests) +2 +1 +2 +2 Guillemot 2 1126 3 1165 3 1157-25 1258 (individuals) +11 +38 +38 +12 Razorbill 0 0 3 143 9 171 (individuals) +10 +7 Note Sample size and means refer to summed totals of all sample plots counted on a single day. Razorbill The older population estimates were extremely variable, e.g. 360 pairs in 1921 but onlv 160 in 1924. The 1969 count of 340 birds in July may well have been too low as c. 1,200 individuals were estimated in April 1972. Taking the 1969 count at its face-value, the mean annual increase 1969-81 was 16% (n 6, r 0.91). The mean annual increase 1973-81 in the number of pairs was 10% (n 5, r 0.86). The sample plots indicated a significant increase of 20% between 1980 and 1981. Discussion There have been marked and continuing increases in the numbers of most seabirds nesting on the Isle of May during the last ten years, and the recent estimates of numbers of Razorbills and Guillemots are much higher than any published previously. Taylor and Reid (1981) noted that the number of both these species ashore on the Isle of May in early winter sometimes appeared to be far in excess of the estimated num- ber of breeding birds. However, some estimates of the num- bers of auks breeding on the island were probably too low. The 13,000 Guillemots and 2000 Razorbills recorded at the island in October 1977 could well have all been Isle of May residents as the breeding populations were probably far in excess of the 4000 and 400-500 pairs respectively the authors extrapolated from the sparse data available for earlier years. 178 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 12(6) Since Operation Seafarer in 1969, Kittiwake and Guillemots on the Isle of May have increased by 5%, Fulmars by 7% and Razorbills by 16% per annum. Between 1959 and 1969 the total British populations of Kittiwake and Fulmars increased by 4% and 7% p.a. (Coulson 1974, Cramp et al. 1974). No com- parative data are available for Guillemots and Razorbills but the available data on other seabirds suggests that populations of species which have a single egg clutch and deferred matur- ity cannot increase by much more than 10% p.a. without im- migration. There may well have been immigration of these auks on to the Isle of May, but many other colonies in north- east Britain are also expanding. For instance, in Berwickshire during 1957-78 Guillemots increased from c. 5600 to 15,000 individuals (5% p.a.), Razorbills from 250-300 to 700 (4% p.a.), and Kittiwakes from 6,400 to 18,000 nests (5% p.a.) (da Prato and da Prato 1980). Similarly on the Farne Islands in 1972-80 Guillemots increased from 1,500 to 5,700 pairs (18% p.a.), Razorbills from 13 to 34 pairs (13% p.a.), Kittiwakes from 3,000 to 4,000 nests (3.7% p.a.) and Fulmars from 61 to 83 sites (4% p.a.) (Hawkey and Hickling 1973, 1981). The same occurred in Caithness in 1969-77 although the apparently massive increase from 50,000 to 126,000 individual Guillemots (12% p.a.) may have been partly due to incomplete coverage in 1969 (Mudge 1979). The Puffin population from the Moray Firth to Yorkshire has increased by 9% p.a. 1969-80, but here there has been much movement between colonies resulting in the population on the Farne Islands increasing only slowly whereas that on the Isle of May has gone up by 22% p.a. due to immigration (Harris 1983). Other species nesting on the Isle of May have also done well. The number of Shags nesting increased steadily from six pairs in 1934 and 12 pairs in 1946 to 1129 occupied nests in 1973 (Eggeling 1974)—a mean annual increase 1946-73 of 16% (n 10, r 0.93). A large mortality of adults during the 1975 breeding season caused a slump to 364 pairs in 1976, but the SHAG 1983 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 179 population has since recovered at 19% p.a. (n 6, r 0.86) to an all-time high of 1163 nests in 1981 (Galbraith 1981, personal observations), Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls both increased by 13-14% p.a. from the early 1930s to a combined peak of c. 17,000 pairs in 1972 (Chabrzyk & Coulson 1976, Duncan 1981). Since then the population has been culled; in 1981 there were c. 2,800 nests of the two species combined (NCC unpublished results). Conditions must be exceptionally favourable for most sea- birds in the North Sea. Doubtless the change from human predation in the 18th and most of the 19th century to more-or- less complete protection from the start of this century has helped all the species but many of the most spectacular in- creases in numbers have occurred during the last few decades, long after the start of protection. This suggests protection is not the only, or possibly even the main, cause of the increases. A change in the food supply, perhaps due to climatic change or the effects of commercial fishing, appears a more likely, if mainly speculative, cause. Whatever the reason the Isle of May now ranks as one of the most spectacular concentrations of seabirds in east Scotland and well deserves its status as a National Nature Reserve. Acknowledgments We thank previous counters, especially Dr J. C. Coulson, Dr P. Lack, N. Gordon, M. Tasker and K. Bayes, for documenting their counts in the records of the Bird Observatory, and we are grateful to NCC, the cus- todians of these records, for allowing us access to them and for financial support. Dr D. Jenkins and Dr S. Wanless improved the manuscript. Summary There have been recent marked and continuing increases in the num- bers of seabirds nesting on the Isle of May. Mean annual rates of in- crease 1969-81 have been 7% for Fulmars, 5% for Kittiwakes and Guille- mots and 16% for Razorbills. References BAxTER, E. V. & RINTOUL, L. J. 1953. The Birds of Scotland. Edinburgh @ CHABRZYK, G. & Couutson, J. C. 1976. Survival and recruitment in the Herring Gull Larus argentatus. J. Animal Ecol. 15: 187-203 [| Coutson, J. C. 1974. Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla. In Cramp et al 1974, 134-141 HH Cramp, S. Bourne, W. R. P. & SAUNDERS, D. 1974. The Seabirds of Britain and Ireland. London # da Prato, S. R. D. & da Prato, E. S.. 1980. The seabirds of Berwickshire. Scot. Birds 11: 13-20 HM Duncan, N. 1978. The effects of culling Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) on recruitment and population dynamics. J. Applied Ecol. 15: 697-718 HM Duncan, N. 1981. The Lesser Black-backed Gull on the Isle of May. Scot. Birds 11: 180-188 BH EGGELING, W. J. 1974. The birds of the Isle of May—a revised assessment of status. Scot. Birds 8: 93-148 H[ GALBRAITH, H. 1981. Fluctuations of breeding Shags on the Isle of May. Scot. Birds 11: 193-194 M Harris, M. P. 1977. Puffins on the Isle of May. Scot. Birds 9 : 285-290 HM Harris, M. P. 1983. Immaturity in the Puffin Fratercula arctica. Ibis 125 : 56-73 BJ HAwKEy,P. & HicKLinGc, G. 1973. 180 SEABIRDS OF THE ISLE OF MAY 12(6) Birds on the Farne Islands in 1972. Alnwick MH HAwKEyY, P. & HICKLING, G. 1981. Birds of the Farne Islands in 1980. Alnwick # MuncgE, G. 1979. The cliff-breeding seabirds of east Caithness in 1977. Scot. Birds 10: 247-261 B SOUTHERN, H. N. 1938. A study of the vertebrate fauna of the Isle of May (Firth of Forth). J. Animal Ecol. 7: 144-154 MM Taytor, K. & Ret, J. B. 1981. Earlier colony attendance by Guillemots and Razorbills. Scot. Birds 11: 173-180. M. P. Harris, Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Banchory, Kincardineshire AB3 4BY H. Galbraith, 96 Neilston Road, Paisley, Renfrew Breeding waders of the Caithness flows T. M. REED, D. R. LANGSLOW and F. L. SYMONDS This study complements recent and current work on the breeding waders of machair and agricultural land and provides comparable data on the populations of fla flat expanses of raised or blanket bog known as ows. The flows of Caithness and Sutherland are well known as strongholds of breeding waders (Nethersole-Thompson, 1971), yet little work has been done to assess the size and density of their breeding populations. This study presents results from two years’ census work by the Upland Bird Survey team of the Nature Conservancy Council. Study area and census metheds Most of Caithness is covered by peat. Over the last century and a half piecemeal enclosure, drainage and peat cutting have all acted to decrease the amount of peatland and much of the remainder has been burnt and grazed; ruined crofts indicate heavier human pressure in former years. The major peatlands are in the west, north-east, and south of the county and contain areas of national and international importance (Ratcliffe, 1977). Survey sites were chosen to represent all Caithness peatland/upland moorland habitat types. All but one of the 18 sites were between 3 km? and 10 km?; the exception was only 2 km?. Each site was counted on a single day using a transect technique. Maps for each site were overlain with a transect grid (lines 200m apart) positioned so that no part of the site was more than 100m away from an observer on a transect line. Each site was visited on 3-5 occa- sions between late April and early July in 1979 and 1980, with the exception of one site C12 in 1979, and three C12, C17 and C18 in 1980 where only two visits were possible. On each visit 1983 WADERS OF CAITHNESS FLOWS 181 a pair of observers walked the same transect lines plotting the exact location of all species seen, except for Skylark and Meadow Pipit, in amended common bird census codes. One observer also recorded the number of Skylarks and Meadow Pipits seen until the first fledglings appeared. Registrations were transferred to species summary maps after each visit. The maps were analysed at the end of the season to obtain estimates of breeding populations. Registra- tions were accepted as indicative of breeding/attempted breeding if they fitted one or more of the following categories: (a) Nest, (b) Pair with young, (c) Pair acting as if with young, (d) A bird or birds, present in the same area on two or more occasions, showing signs of attachment to the area. = = County Boundary SUTHERLAND Y Peatland Cover @ Sites Fig. The extent of peatland and location of study sites in Caithness. Results The census results are summarised in Tables 1 and 2. At only one of the five sites (C6) visited in both years was there a Statistically significant difference in the total wader popula- tion between years (p<0.035, Sign test). Populations for all but two species at this site were higher in 1979 than 1980 although the timing of visits did not differ between years. At the other 4 sites numbers of most species were highest in 1980. 182 WADERS OF CAITHNESS FLOWS 12(6) For all species there were substantial variations in popula- tions between sites but only for Curlew in 1979 (r=0.641 p<0.05 8 df.) and Golden Plover in 1980 (r=0.838 p<0.001 11 df.) was there any relationship between population size and site area. Although densities varied greatly between sites, average densities did not vary significantly between years for any of the major wader species (Table 3). The average number of pairs per site of each species was also similar between years, with the exception of Golden Plover (t=2.895 p<0.05 21 d4f.). Almost all Dunlin and Curlew densities were below those found on North Uist machair (Fuller, 1981). Preliminary analysis shows that the distribution of all wader species on Caithness survey areas in 1980 was highly non-random, with species showing strong associations to certain site features rather than uniformly spaced within sites (Reed and Langslow, in prep.). Table 1 The estimated numbers of pairs of waders on Caithness flow sites counted in both 1979 and 1980 Site C2 C5 C6 C12 C13 1979 1980 1979 1980 1979 1980 1979 1980 1979 1980 Oystercatcher * * 1 Ringed Plover * 1 6 5 Golden Plover 17 19 14 16 14 =#«13 8 15 22 25 Lapwing 1 1 4 3 1 4 6 3 7 Dunlin 2+ 1+ 6+ 9+ 44+ #14 2+ Siereay, Redshank 2 1 3 4 1 3 bg * * 2 Greenshank 2 8 4 5 2 2 i 1 4 1 Common Sandpiper * 1 id 1 - * Curlew 1 1 5 4 8 7 4 5 14 18 Snipe * 1 3 1 ~ 1 * 2 1 * Total pairs 25 33 41 48 33 25 19 30 52 «641 Site area (ha) 625 705 850 820 875 * present + estimates for Dunlin are minima (see text) The distribution of ducks and passerines was also non- random: ducks especially Teal (19 pairs in 1979, 25 in 1980) and Wigeon (11 and 10 pairs respectively) associated with pool and loch systems. Amongst the passerines, all sites had Meadow Pipits and Skylarks whilst Wheatear, Whinchat and Stonechat were confined to the margins of a few sites. Loch edges were comparatively rich, with Pied Wagtails and Com- mon Sandpipers on most shores and Ringed Plovers on sandy shores. The larger lochs supported breeding Greylag Geese, Black-throated Divers and Common Scoters. Almost all sites had either single pairs or small (<15 pairs) colonies of Arctic Skuas in both years. The Skua’s population in northern Scot- 1983 WADERS OF CAITHNESS FLOWS 183 land is continuing to expand and Everett’s (1982) figures for Caithness are probably underestimates as more than 50 pairs were found on the seventeen study sites (Reed, Symonds and Langslow, 1983). [See Table 2 Estimated numbers of pairs of waders on Caithness flow sites, 1979 and 1980 Sites 1979 C4 C7 C8 c9 = 6Cill Oystercatcher 1 * Ringed Plover Golden Plover 13 23 13 14 16 Lapwing ot 1 7 ll Dunlin 1+ 34+) 2+ 3+ 8+ Redshank 1 1 4 Greenshank 1 6 s * 1 Common Sandpiper 1 1 Site area (ha) 700 725 #700 625 # £850 Sites 1980 Cl C3 ClO Cl4 ClI5 Clé6E C17 Cl18 Oystercatcher = 1 * . Ringed Plover 1 Golden Plover 22 24 17 3 4 6 4 7 Lapwing 9 9 . Dunlin 5+ 5+ 2+ 1+ * 2+ * 2+ Redshank 5 4 * - = Greenshank 2 6 3 1 1 3 Common Sandpiper 1+ 5 Curlew 6 11 3 Bi 3 3 3 Snipe 2 = * * 5 * Site area (ha) 700 810 690 200 520 340 300 £400 * present ; +estimates for Dunlin are minima (see text) Discussion It is difficult to determine breeding wader populations ac- curately. Large waders such as Curlew, Greenshank and Golden Plover are generally detectable by observers walking 200m apart, whilst small waders such as Snipe and Dunlin are harder to detect. The Dunlin’s quietness, great mobility when disturbed, and tendency to occur in dense clusters means that population assessments from these transect counts will be underestimates. Intense nest searching in 1980 within an area worked by Fuller in 1979 also indicated his estimated densities from transects to be too low (R. Fuller, pers. comm.). An additional problem with visiting a site over a period of several months is that species detectability varies during this time period (Reed and Langslow, in prep.). However, for all but Greenshank, detectability during the course of the season was 184 WADERS OF CAITHNESS FLOWS 12(6) not statistically different between species of wading birds on the flows (op. cit.); underestimation should be spread evenly amongst species. Visits in early and mid June detected more birds than visits earlier or later in the season. Population estimates reported here are likely to be low for several reasons. The transect method assumes that all birds are always equally detectable; this is unlikely to be correct. In most species there is a lull in activity between display and the emergence of juveniles. Waders are highly detectable before and after incubation, but relatively undetectable during incubation. Variation in detectability may influence the analy- sis Of Summary species maps when only three visits are made. Visits were spaced, on average, three weeks apart; if birds are not seen on even one of the visits, the chances of territory detection, according to the rules used to compile territories, are lowered considerably. In such circumstances territory designation depends on detecting nests, young or distraction dispiay. Unless hatching is strongly synchronised between all individuals of the same species, it is unlikely that all territories will be detectable on one or two visits, especially if these visits are late in the season when the earliest broods will have fledged. Both these factors will lead to underestimation of populations. A further factor that may lead to underestimation is the patchy distribution of birds, as strong clumping of registra- tions makes it almost impossible to split registrations into discrete units, This problem is especially acute for Dunlin where birds occur in colonies separated by large areas without registrations. Rather than attempt an estimate of colony size, based upon the number of individuals seen, the minimum estimates are based on either nests or distraction displays. The results give not only information on population sizes but also indications of factors affecting species occurrence. Most wader species were widespread whilst a few were highly localized. Redshank were absent from pure flow areas lacking basic marshes or flushes (Cl, C14, C15, C18) and upland areas (C2, C8, C12). Lapwing were also absent from areas without marshes (Cl, C14, C15, C18) and were found within sites only on damp basic ground by lochs and streams. Golden Plover were ubiquitous, at varying densities, with Dunlin al- most as widespread. Both species were found at highest den- sity on sites with dubh lochs and slightly degrading pool sys- tems. Greenshank were found on all sites with the exception of the two northernmost flows which are surrounded by farm- land. Certain sites are especially rich both in number of species and their abundance: (C3, C5, C13, Cll, C10), whilst others 1983 WADERS OF CAITHNESS FLOWS 185 (C1, C4, C8 and C14) are species-poor with only 5 wader spec- ies. In neither year was the number of wader species recorded on each site related to its area (r=0.116 p>0.05 8 df. 1979; r=0.143 p>0.05 11 df. 1980); confirming the inherent differences between sites. Because of these differences between sites, any extra- polation to estimate the wader populations for the whole of Caithness will be influenced by the sites sampled. Neverthe- less Table 3 gives estimates for the Caithness flowland as a whole. Population densities for almost all wading species are low in comparison with other studies in Scotland (Fuller, 1978, 1981) and England (Greenhalgh, 1969, 1971). Average Green- shank densities are lower than those reported in some areas of Sutherland and Wester Ross but above reported Finnish densities (Nethersole-Thompson and Nethersole-Thompson, 1979). However, Golden Plover densities are similar to those observed in various parts of north-east Scotland (Ratcliffe, 1976). Table 3. Numbers and densities of 5 wader species on survey sites and estimated populations on Caithness flowland in 1979 and 1980 Estimated Area Density Caithness surveyed No. of pairs/km2 population (km?) pairs av. range pairs Golden Plover 1979 74.8 154 2.05 0.97-2.7 1441 1980 78.4 175 2.09 0.77-3.14 1638 ‘Lapwing* 1979 74.8 30 0.39 0 -1.29 273 1980 78.4 43 0.54 0 -2.65 378 Redshank* 1979 74.8 12 0.16 0 -0.47 112 1980 78.4 16 0.21 0 -0.62 147 Greenshank 1979 74.8 21 0.28 0 -0.56 196 1980 78.4 33 0.41 0 -1.28 287 Curlew* 1979 74.8 53 0.71 0 -1.28 497 1980 78.4 64 0.82 0 = -2.02 574 t+Extrapolated from average density figures; 700 km2 suitable habitat. *Because these species also breed on marginal agricultural land, total Caithness populations will exceed those estimated for flowland. Although the average density (Table 3) did not vary signi- ficantly between sites for any species in 1979 and 1980, extrapolated populations for the flowland differ appreciably between years. Therefore extrapolations that assume similar- ity between both sites and years, although useful as a guide, will produce contrasting and potentially misleading results. Because most wader species exhibit strong selectivity for cer- tain types of habitat, more accurate estimates can be obtained by the use of air photographs and field survey to delimit the extent of suitable habitat for each species within Caithness (Reed and Langslow, in prep.). 186 FAIR ISLE IN THE EIGHTIES 12(6) Summary Censuses of breeding waders were carried out on ten areas in Caith- ness in 1979 and thirteen in 1980. The number of species on a site was not related to site area, nor was individual population size with the exception of Curlew in 1979 and Golden Plover in 1989. Species densities varied between sites but did not differ between years and were relatively low in comparison to other studies. Species richness is very high in comparison with peatland bird communities elsewhere. Acknowledgments The work reported in this paper would have been impossible without the cooperation of landowners and their agents. M. Moss, J. Barrett, C. McCarty and C. Tyson provided able assistance in the fieldwork. The Upland Bird Survey is financed by the Nature Conservancy Council. Dr T. M. Reed, Dr D. R. Langslow and F. L. Symonds, Nature Conservancy Council, P.O. Box 6, Godwin House, George Street, Huntingdon, Cambs. References EveErReETT, M. J. 1982. Breeding Great and Arctic Skuas in Scotland. Seabird Group Report 6: 50-52. ™ FuLuer, R. J. 1978. Breeding populations of Ringed Plovers and Dunlins in the Uists and Benbecula, Outer Hebrides. Bird Study 25: 97-102. M FuLuer, R. J. 1981. The breeding habitats of waders on North Uist machair. Scot. Birds 11: 142-152. M GREENHALGH, M. E. 1969. The populations of Redshank and Dunlin on saltmarshes in northwest England. Bird Study 16: 63-64. [HM GREENHALGH, M. E. 1971. The breeding bird communities of Lancashire salt-marshes. Bird Study 18: 199-212. Bf NETHERSOLE-THOMPSON, D 1971. Highland Birds. Inverness. @ NETHERSOLE-THCMPSON, D. and NETHERSOLE-THOMPSON, M. 1979. Green- shanks. Berkhamstead. §§ RATcLIFFE, D. A. 1976. Observations on the breed- ing of the Golden Plover in Great Britain. Bird Study 23: 63-116. HB Rat- CLIFFE, D. A. 1977. A Nature Conservation Review. Vol. 1 and 2. Cam- bridge. @ Rerev, T. M., Symonps, F. L. and LANGSLow, D. R. 1983. Arctic Skuas in Caithness in 1979 and 1980. Bird Study in press. Birdwatching in the Eighties - Fair Isle NICK RIDDIFORD Fair Isle has so much to offer the birdwatcher I would call it unfair... were I not living there! With a variety of habitats in an area small enough to be thoroughly covered but large enough to leave an unexplored corner for the morrow, and at times migrants occupying every available niche from shore- line to the highest point, Ward Hill, a visit to Fair Isle must be, for the birdwatcher, as much a question of ‘when’ as ‘where’. Fair Isle is traditionally known for its large-scale migra- 1983 FAIR ISLE IN THE EIGHTIES 187 tions and uncanny ability to produce rarities at a rate which threatens to devalue the meaning of the word. So it remains to this day. Heavy movements, spring and autumn, are still commonplace; rarities have become ever more numerous and exotic, partly at least due to the sophisticated approach to identification by the modern birdwatcher. However, another aspect of the island’s birdlife has grown rapidly in prominence in the last decade—its populations of breeding seabirds. Massive increases in the numbers and variety of seabirds breeding on Fair Isle in the last fifteen years are mainly due to two factors: firstly, an ever-increasing abundance of sand- eels offshore during the summer months, providing an impor- tant food source, and secondly a plentiful supply of ledge, cranny, cave, grassy slope and boulder beach habitats to suit a variety of nest-site requirements. Eighteen species are known to breed and two of them—Gannet and Arctic Tern— have colonised since 1974. Careful searching and a modicum of luck may yet establish Leach’s Petrel as an addition to this list; it certainly occurs with marked regularity at one or two sites during July and August. Fair Isle is a veritable seabird city with the total population numbering in the hundred thousands. There can be few more impressive sights than the summer activity all round the isle, set against a backcloth of magnificent scenery. Flowers carpet the ground—and the cliffs. Caves, stacks and natural arches litter the coastline, and the west cliffs rise to over 150 m as a contrast to the low cliffs and pebble beaches of the south. The sounds and smells, too, are atmospheric, echoing and wafting up dramatic geos (narrow inlets) from beaches out of sight. Fortunately not all breeding colonies are beyond view and there are sites where the patient birdwatcher or student of breeding behaviour can sit safely in close proximity to vir- tually all the breeding seabird species without causing distur- bance. Thus the showy and individualistic auk, the Tystie, can be watched in several places at distances of 10 to 30 m. Puffins permit still closer approach, tempting even the most hard- bitten non-photographer to reach for his Instamatic. Needless to say, the birdwatcher for whom photography is an integral part of the hobby will find numerous subjects among the sea- birds. One species which does not lend itself to daytime photo- graphy, or watching, is the Storm Petrel, but the Bird Obser- vatory’s night-time studies enable visitors to see this species in more favourable circumstances than normal—and there is always the chance of a Leach’s Petrel too. Not all breeding activity is confined to the cliffs. A walk across the heather in the north brings one close to breeding 188 FAIR ISLE IN THE EIGHTIES 12(6) Bonxies and Arctic Skuas—for some visitors, too close for comfort! Hardly a summer goes by without a Long-tailed Skua joining the flock of non-breeders at the airstrip. Non- seabirds breed on Fair Isle too. Most celebrated among these is the Fair Isle Wren, a large, boldly-marked version of the mainland race. It breeds down the cliffs, using rock faces as natural sounding boards for its powerful song. The constant piping of Oystercatchers at two o’clock of a June morning is less appreciated! About 80 pairs breed, as do Curlew, Lap- wing, Ringed Plover and Snipe regularly and Whimbrel and Golden Plover occasionally. The Peregrine no longer nests, leaving the cliff patrol to five pairs of Ravens, and though the rasping of the Corncrake is still heard most years in May and June there has been no recent breeding record. On the credit side Quail bred successfully in 1981 and the late summer covey gave several visitors their first views of this elusive bird. In the same year a pair of Yellow Wagtails, pioneers be- yond their British range, nested not 20 m from the Quail. In summer the isle is at its most verdant and the weather generally at its kindest. In spring and autumn Fair Isle sits in the path of the numerous depressions or their sweeping fronts which bring a fresh meaning to the word ‘changeable’. But it is these very weather patterns which make Fair Isle a migration station of world renown. When a depression moves north-east on a track between Shetland and Iceland, a suc- cession of fronts swinging from it results in a period of south- erly or south-easterly winds pulling in disoriented migrants from Scandinavia and Continental Europe. As the front passes the wind swings to SW, but rarely does one need to wait for more than a day or two before the next SE blow. A rather more constant easterly airflow exists when a large area of high pressure becomes established over southern Scandinavia and into Russia, and depressions track E or SE across Britain to become slow moving on meeting the anticyclonic barrier. This situation, prevalent in recent years particularly in aut- umn, makes Fair Isle a target for waifs and strays from regions far to the east in Russia. While the migration specialist rubs his hands at the prospect of yet more easterly winds, there is no room for complacency during periods of westerlies; deep depressions rapidly tracking across the North Sea have trans- ported a number of Nearctic passerines, waders and even Sandhill Crane to the isle. A large fall of migrants is one of the most exhilarating wonders of the bird world. Add to this the unexpected—a Red- flanked Bluetail, Yellow-browed Bunting, Red-necked Stint or perhaps a vagrant yet to be recorded in Britain—and you have the ingredients which draw many birdwatchers to Fair Isle, Pirate 20. Severe gales limit the distribution of seabird nests on the Isle of May but all the birds in these colonies weathered this storm (p. 174). M. P. Harris Piate 2la. Part of the study colony of Guillemots on the Isle of May. In 1981 the 20 marked pairs all laid and by 22 October birds were back on 17 of these sites. b. On some Isle of May cliffs Guillemots are easy to count but in other areas they occur in dense aggregations which make counting much harder. M. P. Harris Pirate 22. On much of the wet, peaty flowland of Caithness the Golden Plover is by far the most abundant breeding wader (p. 180). Upper - Derek Ratcliffe ; Lower - Sam Alexander ia, Piate 23a. Many birdwatchers doubtless attempted to photograph the Killdeer at Bo'ness; the first recorded in Scotland this century. onthe Osborne b. This White-tailed Eagle, wearing its Rhum wing-tag, was snapped while wintering near Stornoway. Peter Cunningham 1983 FAIR ISLE IN THE EIGHTIES 189 spring and autumn. Picking the right moment to visit is diffi- cult. Most popular months are May and September when rarities are virtually guaranteed. Some of the heaviest move- ments take place at this time, but they occur in other months too. Large arrivals of Chaffinches and Bramblings have been a feature of late March in recent years, phenomenal movements of Blackbirds, Robins and Dunnocks have been recorded in April and numbers of Redwings in October frequently exceed 10,000; the isle supported 65,000 Redwings one day in 1979, a total that defies the imagination. Over the last few years October has proved as exciting and varied as September, viz. a ‘fall’ of 10 Pallas’s Warblers and a Parrot Crossbill irruption in 1982, Isabelline Shrike, two Olive-backed Pipits, King Eider and Arctic Redpoll in 1981 and Brunnich’s Guillemot, Pine Bunting and Yellow-browed Bunting in 1980. Fair Isle has added 20 species to the British list since the Observatory’s foundation in 1948. Visitors in search of the May or Septem- ber crop of rarities have missed the last three: Yellow-browed Bunting in October 1980, Sandhill Crane in April 1981 and Red-necked Stint in August 1982. These three are typical of the vagrants which appear on Fair Isle—unpredictable in date, origin and species. The thrill of encountering the unexpected is the ‘icing on the cake’ for many birdwatchers. The joy of Fair Isle is that the unexpected happens virtually every week, spring and autumn, and regularly in the summer months too. This brief sketch of birdwatching on Fair Isle will, I hope, help and encourage the reader to plan a visit to this, one of the world’s most famous bird islands. I have dwelt more on the when than the where. For details of the isle’s habitats and ornithological history I refer the reader to Roger Broad’s chapter in ‘Bird Observatories in Britain & Ireland’ (Durman, 1976). It is useful to know that habitats vary from well-drained moorland to wet bog and shallow lochans. Sturdy walking boots give the visitor access to much of the isle but Welling- tons are a recommended accessory. Warm, waterproof cloth- ing is also essential—some of the best birdwatching can be done in less than clement weather! Photographers will be pleased to learn that the Observatory possesses a portable hide for loan to guests. Means of travel to and from the isle have multiplied in recent years. Loganair currently run a scheduled air service from Tingwall, Shetland, four times a week in summer (and twice a week in winter) and Air Orkney provide charter flights from Orkney, while the island-based mailboat, The Good Shepherd, plies twice a week in summer (and once a week in winter) to Grutness Pier and back. Further information on these services can be obtained from the appropriate travel 190 FAIR ISLE IN THE EIGHTIES 12(6) organisation or from FIBOT, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT. Fair Isle Bird Observatory welcomes birdwatchers, natur- alists and, indeed, all who wish to visit Fair Isle, whatever their interest. The Observatory offers full-board accommoda- tion at competitively low rates in an attractive and comfortable modern cedarwood building overlooking the sea (brochure available from FIBOT). It is an ideal centre for a birdwatching holiday as there is ample opportunity to further ornithological knowledge among like-minded persons, there is an extensive bird and natural history library, and the atmosphere is designed to be relaxing and informal. Many birdwatchers feel that they must make one ‘pilgrimage’ to Fair Isle in their lifetime. Those who do frequently make it again and again. It is certainly an experience not to be missed. I hope you are tempted. If you are, any request for further information will be welcomed—it can be obtained by writing to the Warden, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland or telephoning Fair Isle (035 12) 258. Nick Riddiford, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland Footnote The Red-necked Stint referred to above is still subject to British Birds Rarities Committee acceptance.—Ed. Short Notes Dotterel numbers and breeding in the Central Grampians In 1976-80 numbers, breeding and behaviour of Dotterel were studied on 3.5 km2 of hill ground over Moine schist (for fuller description see Nethersole-Thompson 1973). Woolly fringe moss Rhacomitrium lanug- inosum was dominant in one part and together with Carex bigelowii on another. One or two pairs of Golden Plover nested each year on the study area. Raven, Kestrel, Peregrine and Golden Eagle all hunted over the breeding grounds. The droppings of Foxes were also found regularly. Each year the Dotterel population was estimated in mid-June by counting the nests and additional broods found and the extra males or pairs present. The total number of pairs (Table) was on average about double the 2-11 pairs recorded by Nethersole-Thompson (1973) on the same area in 1950-58 using the same methods at the same time of year. Breeding densities varied from 2.3-4 pairs/km2. These were higher than those recorded elsewhere in Scotland but are lower than in northern Fenno-Scandia and north-west Russia (Nethersole-Thompson 1973). The shortest recorded distance between nests was 100m in 1978; two other nests in 1978 were only 150 and 350m apart (in 1953 four nests lay roughly in a straight line within 500m. Nethersole-Thompson, 1973). All nests found were at altitudes between 870 and 1000m. Two clutches had two eggs (1978, 1979) and 22 had three eggs. This was similar to the results recorded by Nethersole-Thompson (1973) for the Central and West Grampians. 1983 SHORT NOTES 191 At three hatches watched to completion, all nine eggs hatched suc- cessfully. Eight hatching eggs from three nests were weighed one day before hatching, ranging from 10-13 g. One egg about to hatch weighed 10 g and a two hours old chick dry in the nest weighed 11 g. In 1979 a brood of three chicks, thought to have just left the nest, weighed 9, 9 and 9.5 g and another brood of two chicks 10 and 10.5 g. Of 12 broods found shortly after hatching, three had three chicks, five had two chicks and four only one chick, suggesting that heavy losses had already oc- curred. _At four nests observed during hatching, the chicks did not emerge simultaneously. For example, on 15 June 1977, a cock was flushed from three well-chipped eggs at 12.10 but by 13.30 the first egg had hatched. While the cock incubated, a hen stood about 100 m away. Calling occa- sionally, she moved to within 30 m of the nest. When the cock left with an egg cap in his bill, the watching hen, followed by another hen, ran up to within 0.5 m of the nest. She now chased the following hen before the cock returned and in turn drove her away. After this chase the hen again stood 30 m from the brooding cock. A cock had two chicks beside this same nest at 12.00 on 16 June and a solitary hen with a single chick stood 100 m away; she had apparently led away the older chick, thus enabling the cock to hatch the last two eggs. During this hatch the three chicks within the eggs cheeped con- tinuously and the cock gave gruff cries Keereek Keereek and frequently tapped the eggs with his bill. Cocks were incubating at all nests with eggs but at two of them hens were standing close to the nests and brooding cocks. Cocks alone were tending the chicks in 16 out of 17 broods. As very small numbers of Dotterel breed in Britain, the Central Gram- pians, with their relatively high population, are clearly of great impor- tance to the species in this country. Such valuable habitat should be carefully protected to allow future generations of outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists to enjoy watching Dotterel. I thank my brothers and sisters for their field notes, my father for stimulating discussions, my mother for typing and Adam Watson for constructive comments. PATRICK S. THOMPSON REFERENCE: Nethersole-Thompson, D. (1973) The Dotterel. Table Estimated numbers of Dotterel on the study area Year Nests Additional Other males Total found broods seen or-pairs pairs 1976 2 0 6+ 8+ 1977 6 1 1 8 1978 8 3 2-3 13-14 1979 3 8 2-3 13-14 1980* 5 0 3-4 8-9 *Note i Possibly an underestimate because bad weather made observation difficult. © Successful breeding of Brambling in Inverness-shire On 5 June 1982 my wife and I heard bird song which was strange to us in an Inverness-shire birchwood and spotted a female Brambling feeding beneath the trees. The strange song was soon repeated and we 192 SHORT NOTES 12(6) caught a glimpse of the male, but the birds proved elusive and both quickly disappeared. Forty-five minutes later the male sang close by and we saw him in pursuit of the female and then mounting her. Moments later the female again disappeared and we suspected that she might have gone to her nest. At 1130 hrs on 6 June the male sang loudly and shortly after pursued the female around the mating area of the day before. He fed her with an insect during the act of mating, which ended with the pair going their separate ways. We did not see the female again for several hours and presumed that she had again gone to the nest. At 2010 hrs that evening the male sang from a tree in the display area and continued to produce frequent, though short, bursts of song until 2050 hrs. I again searched the tree through binoculars and almost at once spotted the nest. It was about 10m up and tucked into a fork. The nest was larger than, and not so neat as, a Chaffinch’s and was later found to measure 14 x 11 cm and to be 8 cm deep. It was made of dry grasses, moss and lichens interwoven with a lot of sheep’s wool and some tiny pieces of dry bracken, heather, paper and strips of fine birch bark. The cup, 7 cm in diameter and c.3 cm deep, was lined with finer grasses, very soft fur which looked like rabbit’s, and small feathers, of which two were from Woodcock and one from Tawny Owl. On 7 June we watched the nest for over 6 hours, starting at 1045 hrs. The female frequently left it to feed for short periods, usually remaining within a radius of 30-50 m. After feeding she returned quickly to the nest, usually flying directly into the tree and then to the nest but some- times going straight to the rim of the nest. The male fed over a wider area and when he brought food to the nest made the same direct ap- proach as the female but almost always used a misshapen branch at the side of the nest as a perch. In the course of our watch the female left the nest 21 times, including two occasions when she seemed to fly off in excitement just as the male arrived with food and stayed off only a few seconds. The total time she spent off the nest feeding and consorting with the male was 98 minutes, average period 4.67 mins. Between 1050 and 1421 hrs she left the nest 16 times and between 1421 and 1705 hrs only 5 times. In the early after- noon she sat for 73 mins without a break, then left to feed for 15 mins (the longest period of absence we recorded) before returning to incubate for a further 26 mins. The average period of continuous incubation dur- ing our watch was 13.19 mins. The male came to the nest 13 times during this period and refused to feed the female unless she was actually in the nest cup. Only once did he bring food to the nest in the female’s absence and _ in all fed her 8 times, the longest interval between visits being 2 hrs 35 mins. 1983 SHORT NOTES 193 We left the area on 8 June but informed Roy Dennis of our discovery. He inspected the nest on 14 June and reported that it contained 5 white, downy young about 5 days old. The nest was revisited on 1 July when the young had fledged and one juvenile was seen in the area. Brambling is reputed to have bred in Perth, Inverness and Easter Ross but there have been only two previous documented records, in Sutherland in 1920 and Grampian in 1979. In Sutherland the nest with 7 eggs was robbed, and the Grampian nest, whch contained 3 eggs, was unfortunate- ly deserted. The present record therefore constitutes the first proven successful breeding in Britain. I thank Roy Dennis for reports on his visits, including a detailed de- scription of the nest, and for advice regarding this note, and my wife for her assistance with fieldwork. R. H. BUCKNALL REFERENCE Buckland, S. T. & Knox, A. G. 1980. Brambling breeding in Scot- land. Brit. Birds 73: 360-361. High-rise Willow Warbler On the 5th July 1982 I located the unusual nesting site of a Willow Warbler in a wood surrounding my garden at Knapp, near Inchture, Perthshire. The nest, containing 3 chicks about 10 days old, was built into the side of a witches’ broom growth 70 cm in diameter on the branch of a silver birch 5.2 m above ground level. The nest was a typical domed structure lined with Peregrine and Wigeon feathers (from my captive birds). The whole branch swayed freely in moderate winds. This odd site was chosen despite the abundance of more suitable/normal nesting habitat. The Handbook (Vol 2 Witherby et al) gives nesting sites as occasionally in low bush, on trellis or in ivy on wall but normally on the ground, though occasionally recorded as much as 14 or 16 feet above it. KEITH BROCKIE Non-breeding territorial aggression by Peregrine On October 23rd 1982 I was working in my garden when all the small birds suddenly panicked and flew into the still-leafy shrubs and re- mained still and silent. A few seconds later two Peregrines appeared fly- ing high and fast on an easterly course, one of them calling with the ‘cacking-call’ followed by the ‘creaking call’ (kek-kek-kek wi-chew, wi- chew, wi-chew), this series repeated several times in quick succession. The steady flight was interrupted twice, when both birds threw up; and then at the limit of my visibility, after circling for ten or fifteen seconds, they parted, one continuing out of sight while the other returned west- wards, whence both had come. Although the literature states that the ‘creaking-call’” is normally associated with courtship displays, Ratcliffe (1981, The Peregrine Falcon) adds that it is sometimes used in territorial defence, and on this occasion I am in no doubt that the latter is the correct explanation. Peregrines are seen every winter in eastern Fife, especially in estuary and coastal areas, but these are birds displaced from breeding territories elsewhere in the country. I have been unable to trace any records of non-breeding territorial aggression in the Scottish lowlands, and wonder whether what I witnessed was an isolated instance of aberrant behaviour by an individual, or may be rather more common than is generally realised. E. F. B, SPRAGGE 194 SHORT NOTES 12(6) Fledgling Merlins catching moths According to the Birds of the Western Palearctic Vol Il (BWP) hand- reared young Merlins at six weeks showed innate dexterity in taking flying insects in their first hunting flights. There seem to be few docu- mented observations of this behaviour in the wild. On 3lst July 1977 at a conifer forest in Upland Galloway I was watch- ing three fledgling Merlins about a week out of the nest. One of them flew up from a conifer and attempted to catch a flying Eggar Moth twice but missed on each occasion. Two hours later its sibling (a male by size) flew down from a conifer and deftly caught an Eggar Moth in its talons, bent down, bit it, then flew to a conifer to eat it. A week later I dis- turbed a young Merlin from a heather tuft where it had obviously been eating an Eggar Moth. Thirty-five minutes later it began chasing an unidentified moth and tried to grasp it three times before eventually catching it. On 10th July 1977 in the same nesting area I had collected from below a boulder, which was used frequently by the female as a perch, 60 Eggar Moth wings (33 left, 27 right) and from the nest I collected 13 Eggar Moth wings and one unidentified moth wing. BWP state that when day flying moths are especially abundant they may form a sub- stantial part of the diet of the young. In this instance the female may have been feeding on the majority of them herself but on the other hand she may have been discarding the wings before feeding them to her young. R. C. DICKSON Petrels and predators Ed Maguire’s interesting account of the way in which Storm Petrels avoided Peregrines by diving under the water (Scottish Birds 12: 118) prompts me to make the following points. While I too have seen Storm Petrels fly low out to sea when released, it was noticeable that a Leach’s Petrel, which is much more agile in the air, flew high instead, avoiding numerous gulls—which also like to chase petrels—in the process. Migrant landbirds normally appear to avoid the attentions of such predators by flying high over the sea, with the result that Peregrines settling on ships often prefer to feed on petrels instead (Ibis 122: 536-540). I have also seen Coots pursued by a Peregrine, a Sooty Shearwater pursued by Great Skuas, and a flying Shag that was shot at, all dive under the water under conditions where other birds might be expected to tower, so it seems possible that this is a regular means of escape adopted by birds more at home in the water than the air. That it also has disadvan- tages is illustrated by the Wilson’s Petrel caught by a passing shark Sea Swallow 18: 64). daik abil } W. R. P. BOURNE Osprey taking up wing-stretch posture On 29 August 1982, while watching an adult male Osprey at an estuary, we observed the following behaviour. After an unsuccessful attempt at fishing the Osprey shook off excess water and landed on a low perch. Looking very bedraggled it spread its wings out horizontally and started to preen its underwing coverts and upper breast. After fully 15 mins it seemed to tire, as both wings (still outstretched) slowly dropped and were finally closed after a quick shake. This is presumably very unusual behaviour for an Osprey as it has apparently not previously been recorded (see Cramp & Simmons, 1980. The Birds of the Western learctic, Vol II). Palearctic Vout) KEITH DUNCAN, IAIN C. McLEOD 1983 FIELDWORK REPORTS 195 Fieldwork Reports These brief reports have been submitted by recipients of SOC Endowment Fund grants Foula Expedition 1982 A party of 11 visited the island from 25 June to 11 July. The aims of the expedition were to ring seabirds; obtain weights and measurements of skua chicks; census and map Great and Arctic Skuas, Larus gulls and Arctic Terns; record numbers, distribution and breeding success of Red-throated Divers and Eiders; determine timing of breeding and productivity of terns, Kittiwakes, Shags and skuas; sample seabird diets; obtain biometrics for adult seabirds; continue an- nual monitoring of selected sites; census the new and expanding Gannet colony; obtain data on the Tystie population; and assist with seabird ring- ing at Sumburgh. About 300 seabirds were ringed at Sumburgh and 3,305 on Foula; the latter included 694 Shags, 107 Arctic Skuas, 828 Great Skuas, 677 Arctic Terns and 410 Guillemots. All Great and Arctic Skua chicks were weighed and measured. Numbers of both skuas and of terns showed a continuation of the trends over the last few years: Great Skuas have decreased to 2,500 since reaching a peak of 3,000 pairs in 1977, Arctic Skuas have decreased to 224 from 273 in 1979, and Arctic Terns have continued to drop erratically after their rapid increase in the early 1970’s. Red-throated Divers continue to increase, with 14 pairs in 1982, and Eiders to decline. The new and expanding Gannet colony at the base of the Kame held 45 nests. A complete analysis of the data will be made in due course. R. W. FURNESS Heron Studies in East Scotland In 1982 fifteen colonies were studied in Angus (5), Fife (4), Kinross (1) and Perthshire (5). Three colonies, at Carnoustie, Brechin and Glen Isla, were discovered and one at Montrose was lost due to felling. The severe weather of December and January caused high mortality of first year birds but only slightly reduced the adult population. Breeding numbers at colonies were, on average, 12% down on 1981, considerably less of a reduction than we had anticipated following the hard weather. Brood sizes were slightly above average, and nesting in some colonies continued into August, much later than usual. 320 young were ringed (329 in 1981). The colour-ringed bird found breeding at Montrose in 1980 and 1981 was not located in 1982, owing to the movement of the colony, but another colour-ringed bird was found breeding, again at its natal colony, at the age of three. Wing-tagging was continued, in conjunction with Mick Marquiss of I.T.E. Last year’s tagging produced several sightings of birds allowing individuals to be followed for varying lengths of time. Unfortunately, the high mortality of first year birds considerably reduced the number of marked individ- uals surviving into summer. No tagged birds were found breeding but two were resident near their natal colonies and should breed next year. Along with Mick Marquiss, we have published two short reports: a summary of our work, in the Fife Bird Report, and an account of the effects of the severe winter, in BTO News. K. BROCKIE, M. NICOLL Status and Breeding Ecology of Merlin in Grampian A team of three, myself, Brian Cosnette and Logan Steele, continued to work on this project. The main study area was expanded by approximately 25% and effort was concentrated there. Little feedback on status elsewhere in Grampian has been forthcoming. The breeding results for 1982 were poorer than in the previous 3 years but the reasons for this are not 196 FIELDWORK REPORTS 12(6) clear. Some nests on relatively unkeepered ground probably failed due to ground predators. In some nests eggs were broken and in others failed to hatch. More pairs and nests were located but this was probably due to greater experience and effort. Eighteen known sites were checked early in the season, when 3 sites previously unknown to us were dis- covered. Nests were found at 16 of these 21 sites (14 with eggs, 1 with broken shells and 1 empty). Another one of the sites fledged young, as did a further site reported to us. For the 14 nests found with eggs the average clutch size was 4.07 (range 3-5); 9 nests reared 28 young to the ringing stage (2-3 weeks old), averaging 3.1 young per nest; one of these broods was predated after ringing. Three areas checked for post- fledging success had 8 young on the wing. As part of an attempt to establish reliable sexing at the ringing stage, the young in 4 broods were weighed and measured until they left the nest. Six unhatched eggs were collected for chemical analysis and sent to Monkswood Experimen- tal Station. Prey remains and pellets were collected on most visits and will be analysed in due course. GRAHAM REBECCA Auskerry Seabird Survey Visits have been made to Auskerry since 1971, to look particularly at Tysties and Fulmars but also other seabirds including Storm Petrels. The island was uninhabited until 1974-5 but there has since been some habitation and very considerable land im- provement has produced an excellent sheep farm; the results of this “colonisation” are being assessed. Our short visit in mid-July 1982 coincided with an exceedingly wet spell which resulted in the deaths of about 40 Fulmar chicks, several broods and individual Shags (espec- ially large chicks unable to be brooded by an adult), and a number of gull chicks. The atrocious weather limited fieldwork but slight increases in Tysties, Shags, Fulmars and gulls were recorded, and a decrease in Kittiwakes. The average brood size for Shags was 2.51 and for Tysties 1.56—both are high figures. Most of the Tysties were well-grown and fledging success is likely to have been very high. Ringing totals (c.500 birds) were not as high as in previous years, the grand total is now well over 6,000. Several colour-ringed birds from previous years were seen. Lists of the numbers counted and ringed have been deposited in the Waterston Library. It is hoped to continue the work in future years, A. D. K. RAMSAY Canna Seabird Studies 1982 marked the fourteenth successive year of our studies on Canna, Four visits were made in April, May, July and August, covering most of the breeding season. The aims of our visit are threefold : (1) a complete count of all species to detect annual varia- tions in seabird numbers; (2) assessing the breeding performance of several species; and (3) a ringing programme to determine dispersal patterns, mortality etc. All species except Puffin were counted or sampled in 1982. Manx Shearwater (1000+ pairs), Greater Black-backed Gull (61 pairs), Lesser Black-backed Gull (43 pairs), Common Gull (13 pairs) and Black Guillemot (114 birds) showed no major changes on 1981 counts. Razorbill numbers also seemed stable compared to the last available count in 1979. Shags however had increased 24% to 1507 pairs, Herring Gulls by 21% to 1212 pairs and Guillemots by 12% to over 2000 pairs (based on sample colonies). Kittiwakes continued their slow increase by 1% to 991 pairs. The only species to decline was the Fulmar which dropped to 548 pairs from a peak of 668 pairs in 1980. Breeding success was good for most species. Herring Gulls produced chicks in 85.4% of 321 nests in sample areas and Shags 2.07 young per pair from the 46 study nests (Second best performance ever). Shearwaters, however, had their worst ever breeding season with only one young fledging from 42 1983 FIELDWORK REPORTS 197 study nests that were laid in; rats were mainly responsible. Over 3,400 birds were ringed and in addition 200 young Herring Gulls and 350 Guillemots were colour ringed. More three-year-old Guillemots were proven breeding and 5 two-year-old Shags were caught as_ breeding adults—an unprecedented number for Canna and one that may partly explain the large increase in breeding numbers. Finally food samples were obtained for analysis from Guillemots, Shags and Razorbills. A full report of our work in 1981 and 1982 is being produced and copies will be placed in the Waterston Library. R. L. SWANN Pentland Skerries Survey A visit was made to the Pentland Skerries on 6th June 1982, landing on Muckle Skerry, to obtain a comprehensive count of the breeding birds. There was an impressive colony of Arctic Terns with an estimated 7,000 birds. A small colony of Sandwich Terns was found with 26 nests counted. Puffins, a species not included in the Seafarer count, totalled 259 individuals; 2 colour ringed birds from the Farne Islands and 1 from the Isle of May were seen. A landing could not be made on Little Skerry but a small colony of Cormorants could be seen, with at least 5 nests. A list of birds counted has been deposited in the Waterston Library. Thanks are due to all members of the party, Mrs Oag for permission to land and Mr H. Birley for providing the boat service. CHRIS BOOTH Sule Skerry Survey Between the 19th and 28th July, 1982 a party of eleven made a further survey of the seabirds of Sule Skerry. This was our fourth visit to the island, the others being in 1975, 1979 and 1980. As in all other years we estimated the Puffin breeding population and found that the slight declines noted in 1979 and 1980 had been reversed, and numbers were back to the 1975 level of c.44,000 pairs. It is important to note that with our estimation technique of using random quadrats our variations fell within the spread one would expect. The other sea- birds nesting in significant numbers also appeared to be doing well. Ful- mars were well up on all previous years and Shags showed a slight increase. Kittiwakes on the other hand, after showing a significant in- crease in 1979, had fallen back to their 1975 level of about 11,000 pairs. Storm Petrels still appear to be doing well, and there were certainly large numbers of non-breeders present during our stay. We continue to see and catch plenty of Leach’s Petrels, but despite intense searches we are still unable to find any evidence of breeding of this species, even though some birds possess an obvious brood patch. Our studies on this island are continuing and it will be interesting to note any effects brought about by automation of the light, which was finalised on the 6th December, 1982. A. C. BLACKBURN, D. BUDWORTH East of Scotland Mute Swan Study During this first year the main em- phasis was placed on the capture and colour ringing of broods of cygnets from as wide an area between the Highland and Lothians regions as possible. A total of 153 cygnets (from 41 broods) were caught, along with 43 breeding adults and 32 non-breeders. Data on age, sex, weight, tarsus and skull measurements were gathered, and a blood sample col- lected from 183 birds, to be analysed for lead levels. Following the good summer, indications are that breeding success was high, and of 52 broods known to have successfully reared young, mean brood size at fledging was 3.94 cygnets. Causes of mortality were investigated, and revealed that lead poisoning as a factor is certainly present, though precisely how prevalent is not yet clear. One bird from near Elgin died from in- gesting no less than 944 pieces of lead shot, of gunshot not angling 198 FIELDWORK REPORTS 12(6) origin. Ringing results and observations of colour marked birds have been most encouraging. Reports of birds from as far south as Jedburgh, Kelso, Northumberland and Lancashire suggest that major moult migra- tions along the east coast may exist, alongside the less dramatic seasonal movement of birds within the area. Observations of any marked swans will be gratefully received, as will reports (and preferably samples of livers and kidneys) of any recently dead birds. A more detailed report is lodged with the SOC in the Waterston Library. CHRIS SPRAY Isle of May Bird Observatory Bain Trap Replacement The new Heligoland Trap, replacing the Bain Trap, will be built in Spring 1983. This trap is experimental in that it utilises nylon coated steel tubing and cintoflex netting. Hopefully this should reduce problems associated with rust and rot. The structure will be smaller than its predecessor, but constructed in such ‘a way that it can be increased in size with additional sections should this be required. Replacement of any damaged section should also prove relatively simple. It is hoped that this trap will make as valuable a contribution to migration as did the original, which was the most productive of the island’s Heligolands. The S.O.C. Grant met half the cost of the materials. B. ZONFRILLO Waders of rocky shores in northern Scotland This was the first part of a 2-year project to survey the waders on all types of shoreline in the Orkneys. It was undertaken by a team of eight, drawn largely from the Tay and Orkney Ringing Groups. Between 22 and 31 January 1983 ap- prox. 70% of the coastline suitable for waders was surveyed, covering all the larger islands. Over 44,000 waders and c.8,500 gulls were counted on approx. 450 km of shoreline. The most abundant species were Curlew (17,000) and Redshank (5,500). Internationally important numbers of Ringed Plover (1,000+), Turnstone (4,000+), Purple Sandpiper (3,500), Sanderling (650), Redshank, Bar-tailed Godwit (850) and Curlew occur- red. Sanderlings were found only on Sanday and Westray, over 11.000 of the Curlews were on Mainland, and the Purple Sandpipers were mostly on the more exposed rocky shores, with relatively few around Scapa Flow or in the sounds between islands. The remaining islands will be surveyed in the winter of 1983-4, after which the proiect will be fully written up. An interim report has been deposited in the Waterston Library. M. W. A. MARTIN, R. W. SUMMERS Reviews The Birds of Africa (Volume 1) by L. H. Brown, E. K. Urban & K. New- man; Academic Press, London, 1982; 521 pp; 32 col plates; many distribution maps and line drawings; £52.00. Volume 1 of this proposed four-volume series deals with the orders Struthioniformes to Falconiformes. The geographical coverage is the African continent and its immediate offshore islands (but not Madagas- car). The three authors wrote the entire text themselves—a mammoth task, involving years of research. Nearly every species is illustrated, where necessary in different plumages of age, sex and race; many are also shown in flight. Plates 1-17 were painted by Peter Hayman, the rest by Martin Woodcock. Many of Hayman’s plates are rather crowded but the work of both artists is competent and acceptable, even if some birds are less successful than others. The only major fault that I spotted right 1983 REVIEWS 199 away was the dark eye of the Greater Kestrel, which should have been a creamy white. Line drawings in the text show characteristic behaviour patterns and sometimes details of bill and foot. The introduction is ex- tensive and covers the African avifaunas, climate, vegetation, geology, migration, research possibilities and the plan of the text. References to general works are listed at the end of the introduction. The research is up-to-date to 1980, when the book first went to press. Distribution maps for every species, except the rarest vagrants, are big and clear; both text and maps were competently refereed and must be about as authoritative as any current work of ornithology. The amount of information in this book is vast. One can at a moment’s notice get such details as weights, clutch sizes, social structure, abun- dance, and so on—all clearly set out under the relevant subheadings. Sample sizes for quantitative information are given wherever possible. Place names are given with coordinates, especially for information on migration. The list of references for separate families, given at the end of the book, covers 29 pages and must number about 2000 works. Sources of sound recordings are also available as a separate list. This is a truly magnificent book, full of excellent ornithology. It is sad that Leslie Brown, whose brainchild it was, didn’t live to see it in final print, but it is a fitting monument to his memory. Intending buyers should subscribe to the entire set right away and get the books at a lower price. Volume 2 is in preparation at the moment, and the others should follow within a year or two of each other. GORDON MACLEAN St Kilda Revisited by David A. Quine; Frome, 1982; 230 pages; 9 colour, 8 monochrome photos; 9 maps, many sketches and diagrams; (soft- back) £5.25. Over four hundred years have passed since Donald Munro first descri- bed St Kilda and in the intervening period more has been written about the island than on any equivalent fragment of land in the whole British Isles. Why then another St Kilda book when such excellent handbooks as the new edition of Tom Steel’s Life and Death and the National Trust’s St Kilda Handbook have been published in recent years ? David Quine’s St Kilda Revisited is the compilation of an enthusiast who has ‘‘endeav- oured to collect together. ..earlier material, with recent findings in as many fields as possible”. He has certainly succeeded in this and has produced a comprehensive and readable compendium of information on all aspects of St Kilda life and history. Some photographs are published for the first time, family histories are brought up to date (with photographs), and of particular interest are long extracts from George Murray’s diary. This is a most useful and interesting little book which complements rather than re- places other recent works. All St Kilda lovers should have this one. My ely criticism is its curious format—oblong and floppy—it deserves etter. IAN DURANCE PENNIE The Living Birds of Eric Ennion by Eric Ennion, with an introduction & commentary by John Busby; Gollancz, London, 1982; 128 pages; many colour & plain illustrations; field sketches. £9.95. ‘Living Birds’ is an apt description for this marvellous collection of sketches and paintings by the late Eric Ennion. His unique style of capturing the vitality and movement of birds with such economy of line and paint was masterful. Their simplicity belies the genius, years of know- ledge and fieldwork backed up by scrapbooks of reference sketches which form the basis of this book. My particular favourite is a page of kestrel 200 REVIEWS 12(6) sketches depicting a male balancing on a thin branch whilst scanning the ground for prey. He taught and inspired many artists, including John Busby, who compiled the book and wrote the introduction and commentary. I had the privilege of attending Ennion’s last drawing course with John in 1980. I shall treasure that week’s tuition and this book, a fitting tribute to Dr Eric Ennion. KEITH BROCKIE Golden Eagle Years by Mike Tomkies; Heinemann, 1982; 202 pp; 20 col., 40 plain illus; £9.95. Somewhat in the mould of Gavin Maxwell, Mike Tomkies exiled him- self somewhere in the West Highlands so that he could observe, photo- graph and write about its wildlife. This very popular account of the Golden Eagles in his area is lucid and at times absorbing, although I found his frequent references to each of thirty or so numbered eyries in his ‘patch’ slightly confused the text. He subjected himself to pro- longed and gruelling overnight stints in hides (vowing repeatedly ‘never again !’) and the resultant photographs reflect both his frustrations and successes, ranging from poor to excellent. The book reaches a_ convin- cing climax when he finally locates the long elusive eyrie of a ken- speckle pair near his home, containing a brood of two chicks. Freely admitting his initial ignorance of some basic aspects of eagle biology (which at times he tends to exploit to convey the impression that he is breaking new ground in eagle research), the author subsequently researched his subject deeply, and includes an impressive bibliography. He also appends a useful list of over a hundred prey items found in his eyries, together with a brief analysis on the altitude and aspects of the nests. JOHN A. LOVE Foula, Shetland Vol. 4 - The Birds of Foula by R. W. Furness. The Brathay Hall Trust, 1983; 147 pages; 41 figs & 18 plain illus; £3 (S). This is Vol. 4 in a series of 8 on the Shetland island of Foula published by the Brathay Trust to put on record the results of 25 years of late- summer expeditions for schoolboys. Bob Furness has used this oppor- tunity to bring up to date all that is known or recorded on Foula. He admits that the observations are ‘uneven’, and the chief criticism must be that much of the data is patchy or incomplete. But when so few long-term studies have been made and so little published, this brave attempt to restore the balance is all the more valuable. For island-lovers it’s a must. By far the most important part of the book covers the 40 species of breeding birds and brings up to date the changing status of one of the Northern hemisphere’s most important and least documented seabird stations. The author‘s own wide knowledge of the island is most evident in the evaluation of the past history and recent status and significance of the skua populations, especially an important sum- mary of our knowledge of the largest N. Atlantic colony of the Bonxie. Other highlights are the agonisingly slow process of establishing, over 8 years, a new gannetry now of 30 nests; and the dramatic confirmation of a minor colony of perhaps 50 pairs of Leach’s Petrels. C. K. MYLNE Les Oiseaux de la Corse by J-C Thibault; Parc Naturel Regional de la Shire Ajaccio, 1983; 255 pages; 12 tables; 30 maps; 70 b/w plates; £12 (S). This well-produced little book, by the eminent French ornithologist Jean-Claude Thibault, describes the habitats and the status and distribu- tion of the birds of Corsica, home of the endemic Corsican Nuthatch and stronghold of the Lammergeier in the western Mediterranean. W. G. HARPER 1983 REVIEWS 201 Birds new to Britain and Ireland by J. T. R. Sharrock and P. J. Grant; Poyser, Calton, 1982; 263 pages; many illustrations, maps, and plain photos; £12.60. Thirty five years of what could be described as one of the most exciting aspects of birdwatching—finding a species new to the British Isles—are crammed into this fascinating new book. It contains descriptions of “firsts” which originally appeared in British Birds, but with some very useful additions, including an update on each species’ status, and a note on additional identification details. The occasional weather map helps to explain how some birds became firsts. All 83 species are described in chronological order—I wonder how many twitchers made the pilgrim- age to Norfolk in 1955 after their first Collared Dove ? The book is beautifully illustrated by a variety of artists, but I don’t share the editor’s enthusiasm for the photographic section at the end. Better quality photos would have been more helpful—even if they had come from outside the UK! This, however, is a very minor criticism of an otherwise excellent and “gripping” book. teed ANGUS HOGG The books reviewed above are available from the SOC Bird Bookshop. Current literature Articles and reports on birds in Scotland, mainly on status and distribution, are listed here. Some biological studies, e.g. be- havioural, are excluded, as are references from the widely available journals British Birds, Bird Study, Ringing and Migration and Ibis. Most items listed are available for reference in the Waterston Library. The librarian welcomes copies of work on any aspect of ornithology. Biometrics of breeding Dunlins from South Uist. B. Etheridge & W. G. Taylor 1982. Wader Study Group Bull. 36: 2-3. Ereeding Dunlins on a South Uist machair meadow in 1982. B. Etheridge & W. G. Taylor 1982. Wader Study Group Bull. 36: 4-5. Spring passage of Sanderlings on the Solway Firth. N. A. Clark, B. S. Turner & J. F. Young 1982. Wader Study Group Bull. 36: 10-11. Limitation of local population size in the Shelduck. I. J. Patterson, M. Makepeace & M. Williams 1983. Ardea 71: 105-116. The diet of the Knot on rocky shores of eastern Scotland in winter. R. W. Summers & S. M. Smith 1983. Ardea 71: 151-158. Summer distribution of birds {in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth District] : Pre- liminary maps. (59). A. D. Wood & A. J. Young 1982. St Abb’s Head seabird counts for 1982. (21 pp). S. R. Warman & C. O. Bad- enoch 1982. Nature Conservancy Council, Edinburgh. Ecology and everyman. G. M. Dunnet 1982. (deals with monitoring seabirds in Scotland) J. Anim. Ecol, 51: 1-14. A radio-tracking study of the ranging behaviour and dispersion of European Sparrowhawks [in south-west Scotland]. M. Marquiss & I. Newton 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 111-133. Fidelity to breeding area and mate in Sparrowhawks. I. Newton & M. Mar- quiss 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 327-341. Time of laying by Swallows and Sand Martins [in Scotland]. A. K. Taylor 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 29-46. The home range and density of Kestrels [in Scotland] in relation to vole abundance. A. Village 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 413-428. Concentration of Scottish seabirds vulnerable to oil pollution. W. R. P. Bourne 1982. Marine Pollut. Bull. 13: 270-273. Changes in the breeding biology of the Herring Gull induced by reductions in the size and density of the colony [on the Isle of May]. J. C. Coulson, N. Duncan & C, Thomas 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 739-756. 202 CURRENT LITERATURE 12(6) Detection of annual changes in the numbers of cliff-nesting seabirds in Ork- ney 1976-80. S. Wanless, D. D. French, M. P. Harris & D. R. Langslow 1982. J. Anim. Ecol. 51: 785-795. Food, predation and breeding season in Sparrowhawks [in Scotland]. I. New- ton & M. Marquiss 1982. J. Zool. (Lond.) 197: 221-240. A colony of Cormorants at a fresh water loch in North Uist. D. J. R. Counsell 1982. Army Bird Watching Soc. Bull. no. 4/82. Forth island bird counts in 1982. R. W. J. Smith 1983. Edin. Nat. Hist. Soc. J. for 1982, 24-25. Variations in size and growth of Great Skua chicks [in Shetland] in relation to adult age, hatching date, egg volume, brood size and hatching sequence. R. W. Furness 1983. J. Zool. (Lond.) 199: 101-116. Interim report of the Scottish Greenland White-fronted Goose census in autumn 1982. (8 pp). A. D. Fox & D. A. Stroud (1988). Scottish Bird Report for 1981. (62 pp). R. H. Dennis (ed) 1988. £1.75 post from from SOC Bird Bookshop. Trapping and colour-ringing Golden Plovers in NE Scotland. R. Parr 1982. The Ring 9: 244-246. Lothian Bird Report for 1981. (59 pp). D. J. Bates, G. F. Bell & M. R. Leven (eds) 1988. £1.50 post free from M. R. Leven, 13 Henderson Row, Edinburgh EH3 5DH. The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club ANNUAL CONFERENCE The 36th annual conference and 46th annual general meeting of the club will be held in the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, East Lothian, during the week-end 4 - 6 November 1983. The conference programme, which includes the agenda for the AGM, and the booking form will be sent to members with the autumn journal early in September. Reserva- tions for the conference can only be accepted on the booking form; the Marine Hotel has been instructed not to accept any booking except through the club secretary. BRANCH MEETINGS Will members please note that the dates for the first meetings of branches next winter will be as follows : September 19th Aberdeen, Borders and Glasgow 20th Edinburgh, Inverness and Wigtown 2lst Ayr, Dumfries, St Andrews and Thurso 22nd Dundee, New Galloway and Stirling LOCAL RECORDERS Please note the following change : Sutherland A. R. Mainwood, 13 Ben Bhraggie Drive, Golspie, Sutherland KW10 6SX. The list of all SOC recorders is published towards the end of this issue of the journal. THE BIRD BOOKSHOP The 1983 summer booklist is available free from the club office. Mem- bers can still order books post free if they buy at least £10 worth at a time. 1983 NOTICES 203 Notices Southeast Scotland Bird Bulletin It is planned to start an informal news- letter to publicise sightings and events in the Lothian and Border Regions. As well as a systematic list of species seen, the Bulletin will include details of indoor meetings, fieldtrips, census work, new books, etc. All observers (local and visiting) are asked to send in their records on a monthly basis and these will subsequently be forwarded to the three local recorders involved. Records for each recording area should be sent on separate sheets and in Voous order under headings of species, num- ber, locality, date and comments. These should be sent to I. J. Andrews, 36 Lutton Place, Edinburgh EH8 9PG, at the end of August (for April to August) and monthly thereafter. The Centennial Meeting of The American Ornithologists’ Union is to be held in New York, 25 September-1 October 1983. Members of ‘‘sister or- nithological organisations” all over the world are invited to participate. Anyone interested should contact Lester L. Short or George Barrowclough at the American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York 10024, USA, for further information. Recent Reports These notes include unchecked reports and are not intended as a per- manent record, nor will they be indexed. Please send reports to Pete Ellis, 17 Regent Terrace, Euinburgh via local recoraers, at the end of March, June, September and December. The period January to March is covered here. The mild winter was in stark contrast to last year and was no doubt responsible for the number of wintering “summer visitors’, though win- ter rarities were well represented. Shetland produced 2 White-biiled Divers and a rather “out of place’ Night Heron wintered on Arran. Notable wildfowl included a white Snow Goose at Meikle Loch in Jan- uary and a blue phase bird in March in the Western Isles, where there was also a Canada Goose of one of the small northern races. A Teal of the American race carolinensis stayed at Inverness till February and the male Ring-necked Duck returned to Loch Insh in March. King Eiders were reported from Orkney, Shetland and Lewis, at least three male Surf Scoters wintered at Spey Bay and a female appeared in Shetland in March, while Smew were seen in several localities—those on Mull and in Orkney being the most unusual. Rough-legged Buzzards in several areas and spectacular white Gyr Falcons in Shetland on 21st February and in South Uist on 30th March were highlights among the raptors. Scotland’s first Killdeer this century, and the second ever recorded, gave tremendous pleasure to hundreds of birdwatchers from January till at least mid March. The mild weather no doubt helped a Common Sand- piper survive the winter at Paisley Moss. Passerines of.special interest were few and far between but included a Shore Lark on Fair Isle (on 3lst March it was their earliest ever), Water Pipits appeared at Sumburgh in January and Barnsness in March, and a Dipper of the continental black-bellied race (c. cinclus) on Fair Isle. Wintering Black Redstarts and Blackcaps were seen as far north as Fife and Shetland respectively whilst a Chiffchaff appeared in Edinburgh on lst March. Crossbills have been perhaps more numerous than usual with flocks of up to 80 near Selkirk. The weather turned cold again in mid- 204 RECENT REPORTS 12(6) March and northerly winds have meant a slow start to the spring migra- tion. By far the most outstanding feature of the period was the influx of sea birds, no doubt a result of the long series of gales. January and early February produced unprecedented numbers of Iceland Gulls, particularly in the north and west—for example 30 at Stornoway, 30 Scalloway, 23 Wick, 13 Lerwick, 13 Ullapool, 12 Stromness, 6 Ayr and 5 Fraserburgh. One bird in Lerwick was considered to be of the American race Rumlieni. For once iceland Gulls outnumbered Glaucous Gulls in most areas. Gull watching is always good at this time of year; Shetland as usual took the lead. “Good” gulls included Mediterranean in Shetland and Leven in March, Little at Peterhead and Dunbar in February, Sabine’s off Islay in January and at Eyemouth in March, a Bonaparte’s at Scalloway in Jan- uary and Ring-billed at Scalloway and Tiree in January. The ultimate in gulls, a Ross’s, stayed in Shetland throughout January and February and was twitched by a Dutchman with a world list of over 4000 species. (He had previously missed them in Alaska). A second bird was at Sum- burgh on 22nd-23rd January and yet another graced Wick Harbour from 26th January to 6th March and thrilled a number of birders who made the long drive from the central belt and Aberdeen. Other unusual sea- birds included a Grey Phalarope at Longniddry on 13th February, Pom- arine Skuas at Inverness in February, 2 at Peterhead in January and 4 there in February, where an Arctic Skua was also seen. Single Bonxies were also at Peterhead in January and February. The most distressing aspect of this influx of seabirds was the largest wreck of auks ever recorded in Britain. At least 18,000 were involved, 2,500 being picked up dead on the beaches of Scotland. About 60% of the birds killed were Razorbills whilst most of the rest were Guillemots. The deaths are believed to have been due to exhaustion and starvation brought about mainly by the severe gales. In Orkney an Icelandic ringed Razorbill was recovered for the first time in Britain. Measurements indi- cate that the Razorbills found dead in Shetland were from Arctic breed- ing sites. The north-easterly gales produced the largest numbers of Little Auks to reach our shores since the 1940’s. About 5% of the dead auks found on beaches were Little Auks but many of these super little birds were seen alive. Counts included 100 off Whalsay on 11th January and several hundred in the Forth between Barnsness and Cockenzie in early February. It is always such a shame that weather conditions which pro- duce lots of birds for us to see are so bad for the birds themselves. STOP PRESS: White Stork—East Linton, 9 April; Ross’s Gull—Wick, 2-11 April; Brunnich’s Guillemot—Shetland, 5 April. PETE ELLIS A different kind of record! During 1982 Bruce Forrester of Prestwick recorded 308 species in Britain. He believes that he is the first Scottish- based birdwatcher to have broken the 300 barrier, although this has been done by several south of the Border. He says that 12 months of “twitch- ing, dipping and being gripped off” have left him exhausted (we can well believe it!) and is looking forward to a quieter year in 1983. (Incidentally, employing a much more static approach, the Editor has also just passed the 300 mark—in respect of draft species accounts for “Birds in Scot- land”). Scottish Bird Report 1981. The Editor apologises for the errors in the species list. A full correction will appear in SBR 1938. SCOTTISH BIRDS ADVICE TO CONTRIBUTORS COTTISH BIRDS publishes original material relating to ornithology in Scotland. Papers concerned with status and distribution are par- ticularly welcome, as are short non-technical summaries of studies carried out in Scotland and reported fully in a scientific journal. Descrip- tive articles for the “Birdwatching in...” series and short notes on behaviour, rarities, new breeding records, etc. are also invited. Papers are considered by an Editorial Panel and, where appropriate, are scrutin- ‘sed by specialist referees. Contributions are accepted subject to editing and on the understanding that they are not being offered elsewhere. Authors should bear in mind that only a small proportion of the reader- ship is science-trained. Unfamiliar technical terms and symbols should he avoided wherever possible and if deemed essential should be explained. Supporting statistics should be kept to a minimum and preferably be given in association with a table or figure, or in an appendix, rather than in the body of the text. Authors should aim to present their material concisely, interestingly and clearly. Papers should generally not exceed about 2,500 words; reference should be made to recent issues of Scottish Birds for guidance on style of presentation, use of capitals, form of references, etc. Two copies of papers and long articles are required, typed on one side only, in double spacing and with wide margins. Hand-written short notes should be well spaced and clearly written. Tables should be self-explanatory and designed to fit across the page; lengthwise tables which do not completely fill a page will not normally be accepted. Table contents and headings should be kept as simple as possible; footnotes may be used to provide extra details where necessary. Each table should he on a separate sheet. Care should be taken to check all Tce (The Editor cannot undertake to correct other people’s arith- metic ! Maps and diagrams should be designed either to fit across the page (preferable) or to fill a page fully, and be drawn so as to permit reduc- tion to half their original size. Lines and lettering should be in Indian ink, and shading in Letratone or cross-hatching (also in ink) at a den- sity which will permit similar reduction. Pencil shading may not repro- duce satisfactorily. Captions should be typed on separate sheets. Both a figure and a table should not be used to present the same information. Figures and tables will be published only if, in the view of the Editorial Panel, the content justifies the space occupied. Photographs, either glossy black & white prints (preferable) or colour transparencies, are welcomed; they should be sharp and have good con- peat Line drawings, in Indian ink on good quality paper, are also in- vited. LOCAL RECORDERS Shetland (except Fair Isle) Dennis Coutts, ‘Da Knowe”, Twageos Road, Lerwick, Shetland. Fair Isle N. Riddiford, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland. Orkney C. J. Booth, “Ronas”, 34 High Street, Kirkwall, Orkney. Outer Hebrides, St Kilda W. A. J. Cunningham, Aros, 10 Barony Square, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis PA87 7TQ. Caithness Mrs P. M. Collett, Sandyquoy, East Gills, Scrabster, Caithness KW14 7UH. Sutherland A. R. Mainwood, 13 Ben Bhraggie Drive, Golspie, Sutherland KWI10 6SX. Ross-shire (except Black Isle), Inverness-shire (mainland over 18 miles pba ee a) R. H. Dennis, Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness Vv 3 Inverness-shire (within 18 miles of Inverness) and Black Isle, Ross-shire M. I. Harvey, Clachbhan, Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire. Nairnshire, Morayshire, Banffshire N. Elkins, 10 Oakbank Place, Elgin, Morayshire IV30 2LZ. Aberdeen, North Kincardineshire Dr M. V. Bell, 20 West Mount Street, Aberdeen AB2 4RJ. South Kincardineshire, Angus N. K. Atkinson, 5 Tolmount Crescent, Mont- rose, Angus DD10 9DQ. Perthshire E. D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perthshire PH2 6RZ. Isle c Jey B. Zonfrillo, 28 Brodie Road, Balornock East, Glasgow G21 3SB. Fife (except Forth Islands), Kinross-shire I. G. Cumming, 11 Canongate, St Andrews, Fife. Clackmannanshire, East Stirlingshire Dr C. J. Henty, 3 The Broich, Alva, Clackmannanshire. West Lothian, Forth Islands (except May) Midlothian A. W. & L. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 ONB. East Lothian K. S. Macgregor, 16 Merchiston Avenue, Edinburgh EH10 4NY. Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire R. D. Murray, 143 Eskhill, Penicuik, Midlothian. Argylishire, Inner Hebrides R. F. Coomber, 4 Staffa Cottages, Tobermory, Isle of Mull PA75 6PL. Dunbartonshire, West Stirlingshire, Renfrewshire I. P. Gibson, Arcadia, The Glen, Howwood, Renfrewshire. Lanarkshire Dr E. S. Alexander, 3 Lilac Hill, Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Ayrshire, Arran, Bute R. H. Hogg, Kirklea, 11 Kirkmichael Road, Cross- hill, Maybole, Ayrshire. Dumfriesshire Dr E. Fellowes, West Isle, Islesteps, Dumfries DG2 8ES. Kirkcudbrightshire, Wigtownshire A. D. Watson, Barone, 54 Main Street, Dalry, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire DG8 3UW. SUTHERLAND BIRDS A guide to the Status and Ecology of Birds in Sutherland District Edited by STEWART ANGUS 96 pps 216 mm x 143 mm _sISBN - 0 9501718 3 2 = £4.95 (hardback) Published by The Northern Times Ltd., Main Street, Golspie, Sutherland. (May/June) Available from the Bird Bookshop. The first comprehensive guide to the birds of one of Scotland’s most impressive areas lists all 258 species recorded this cen- tury. The bird list gives details of status and ecology and is complemented by chapters on habitats and conservation, written by Desmond Nethersole-Thompson, Ian Pennie, Donnie Macdonald and Stewart Angus. There are 50 illustrations, 33 of which are colour photographs, including a cover photograph by Eric Hosking FRPS. Royalties from sales will be used to promote wildlife studies in Sutherland. THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB MPHE Scottish Ornithologists’ Club was formed in 1936 and membership is open to all interested in Scottish Ornithology. Meetings are held during the winter months in Aberdeen, Ayr, the Borders, Dumfries, Dun- dee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, New Galloway, St Andrews, Stirling, Thurso and the Wigtown District at which lectures by prominent ornith- ologists are given and films exhibited. Expeditions are organised in the summer to places of ornithological interest. The aims of the Club are to (a) encourage the study of Scottish ornith- ology and to promote an interest in wild birds; (b) co-ordinate the activi- ties of Scottish ornithologists; (c) encourage ornithological work in Scotland; (d) encourage conservation of Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) hold meetings for discussion and to arrange ornithological field meetings, and (f) appoint local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology, including Scottish Birds, the club journal. There are no entry fees for Membership. The Annual subscription is £7.50, or £3 in the case of Members under twenty one years of age or Students under 25 who satisfy the Council of their status as such at the times at which their subscriptions fall due. The Life subscription is £150. Family Membership is available to married couples and their nominated children under 18 at an Annual subscription of £11, or a Life subscrip- tion of £225. Scottish Birds is issued free to Members but Family Mem- bers will receive one copy between them. Subscriptions are payable on lst October annually. Scottish Birds, which is published quarterly, includes papers, articles and short notes on all aspects of ornithology in Scotland. The club also publishes the annual Scottish Bird Report. Application for Membership form, copy of the Club Constitution, and other literature are obtainable from the Club Secretary, Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe, Scottish Centre for Ornithology and Bird Protection, 21 Regent Terace, Edinburgh, EH7 5 BT (tel. 031-556 6042). WAULKMILL LODGE => Orkney Holiday accommodation in secluded licensed Guesthouse New Branch in Edinburgh overlooking Bay and adjoining Hobbister reserve. (] Expert Service Central position for touring ; island and seeing bird (] Binoculars specialities such as Hen []_ Telescopes si Red-throated Diver, etc. [] Repairs See main advertisement WAULKMILL LODGE, for details. Waulkmill Bay, Orphir, Orkney Tel. Kirkwall (0856) 2427 THE BIRD BOOKSHOP Scottish Ornithologists’ Club Dept. 7, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT. Phone 031-556-6042 Worldwide selection of books on ornithology and related topics. Our stock of over 600 titles covers all levels from amateur to professional and includes other natural history books. Orders of £10 or more are sent post free to mem- bers provided membership is stated. For a free 30 page booklist write to the above address or phone (Mon-Fri 9-1, 2-5) The Bird Bookshop makes a substantial contribu- tion to club income, so buy all your bird books from us and help keep subscriptions down. Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa The Birds of the Western Palearctic Volume Ill, Waders to Gulls S. Cramp, K.E.L. Simmons, and others This entirely new and authoritative work of reference has been planned to take account of the great advances that have been made in ornithological knowledge since the publication of the Handbook of gs» British Birds. Volume Ill contains descriptions of 112 species. Illustrations of each species are in the form of specially commissioned colour plates, showing the full range of normal plumage together with more distant flight views. The artists for this volume are Norman Arlott, y PJ.K. Burton, N.W. Cusa, _ Robert Gillmor, and D.I.M. Wallace. 56 colour plates, ie over 500 line ” drawings, maps £49.50 Wildfowl of Britain Birds of Prey and Europe of Britain and Europe M.A. Ogilvie lan Wallace The ducks, geese, and swans are The birds of prey are a diverse group colourful birds, evocative of wild and one of perennial fascination. places. Their variety and beauty are lan Wallace here provides a short but illustrated in this book. The thirty authoritative account, illustrated by 32 colour plates by Peter Scott and plates in full colour by C.J.F. Coombs, N.W. Cusa are from Volume | of the Peter Hayman, and lan Willis from Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Volume Il of the Handbook of the Birds Middle East, and North Africa.The text, | of Europe, the Middle East, and North specially written for this volume, draws Africa. The text, specially written for onthe Handbook. 30 colour plates, this volume, draws on the Handbook. endpapermaps £6.95 32 colour plates £6.95 Oxford University Press BIRD AND IRELAND J.T. R. Sharrock and P. J. Grant The 83 species featured, in date sequence of discovery, had not been recorded in Britain or Ireland before 1946. The original accounts of the sightings published in British Birds between 1947 and 1982 are now reprinted and supplemented with comment by Dr Sharrock on subsequent occurrences and current status. In addition Peter Grant provides identification notes drawing attention to points not covered in the original accounts. There is also a world distribution map for each species and a line illustration to head each of the accounts. A section of plates reproduces 81 ‘first-sighting’ photographs covering 32 of the species in the book. 280 pages, £12.60 net T & AD POYSER: Calton, Waterhouses, Staffs Walter Thomson, Printer, Selkirk ISSN 0036-9144 THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 7 Autumn 1983 Write NOW for one (or several!) Publication: 10th October 1983 The ‘British Birds’ Mystery Photographs Book 42 birds to identify, and one more to detect from clues .. . Identify the birds least £1,000 (and perhaps over £4,000) Obtainable only from the SOC Bird Bookshop, or direct from the publisher: (BB Mystery Book, Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, Bedford MK44 3NJ: post free to UK & Eire, add SOp for overseas; make cheques payable to British Birds Ltd., please) 23rd September publication Owls of Europe by HEIMO MIKKOLA illustrated by Ian Willis The 13 owls breeding in Europe and the 4 additional species from lands adjoining the Mediterranean are reviewed by Dr Mikkola in this major work under three main headings. Part I: Special Characteristics of Owls — origins, taxonomy, anatomical features, pellets. Part Il: Species Descriptions — the 17 species described in detail plus voice, behaviour, food, breeding and distribution (34 maps). Part Ill: Ecological Relationships — largely concerned with interactions between owl species and with other birds of prey. There are 8 colour plates and numerous drawings and diagrams by lan Willis, and 75 photographs. 24 x16cm, 400 pages plus 8 colour plates and 32 pages photographs, £16.80 net T& AD POYSER Calton, Waterhouses, Staffordshire ST10 3JX Member of The Association of British Travel Agents Eighteen years’ service to naturalists and birdwatchers Holidays organised by Birdwatchers for Birdwatchers Provisional reservations now accepted for 1984 sé Tour Programme d CHINA SPANISH PYRENEES ETHIOPIA YUGOSLAVIA SR! LANKA NE GREECE KENYA TURKEY INDIA BULGARIA CANARY ISLANDS ANDORRA TUNISIA MOROCCO JORDAN VANCOUVER and CYPRUS THE ROCKIES LAKE NEUSIEDL SOUTH AFRICA HIGH ALPS TANZANIA THE CAMARGUE HOLLAND MAJORCA VIRGINIA, U.S.A. SW SPAIN Particulars and Programme sent on request LAWRENCE G. HOLLOWAY ORNITHOLIDAYS Dept. 4, 1/3 Victoria Drive, Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, PO21 2PW. Telephone 0243 821230 ATOL Licence No. 743 WAULKMILL LODGE Orkney Holiday accommodation in secluded licensed Guesthouse overlooking Bay and adjoining Hobbister reserve. Central position for touring island and seeing bird specialities such as Hen Harrier, Red-throated Diver, etc. WAULKMILL LODGE, Waulkmill Bay, Orphir, Orkney Tel. Kirkwall (0856) 2427 PABBA SS! Orkney Islands TAVERSOE HOTEL ROUSAY Our peaceful island hotel overlook- ing the sea makes an ideal centre for ornithologists. Habitat-moor- land, shore, cliffs and lochs attract 70 breeding species and many more migrators. Excellent walking and trout fishing. Close to excavated prehistoric sites including Mid ihe broch and cairn. Brochure rom: IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, ORKNEY Tel. 085682 325 The first in a series of natural history books which will include birds, plants, animals and fish. Full colour illustrations with text—an appealing book at the start of summer: a great gift for all natural history enthusiasts. £3.75 Hardback Available. from most bookshops or direct from: ACAIR 7 James Street, Stornoway. “/ Charles Frank Binocular specialists Charlies Frank | Binoculars Model Price 8 x 30 ZCF £23.25 8 x 40 ZCF £28.90 7 x 50ZCF £29.95 10 x 50 ZCF £30.90 8 x 40 BWCF £64.00 M/coated 10 x 40 BWCF £69.95 M/coated 8 x 40K £68.80 10 x 40K £68.80 8 x 22 roof prism £46.95 8 x 40 roof prism £72:29 8 x 56 roof prism £92.50 10 x 40 roof prism £73.20 20 x 70 BCF £125.00 11 x 80 BCF £145.00 Telescopes all with sling-type case Model Price Charles Frank 30 x 75R/A £149.95 Charles Frank 20-60 x 60 £99.95 Optolyth 30 x 75 £218.00 Habicht 30 x 75NZ £335.00 Lumex 604 14-45 x 50 £71.50 Bushnell Discoverer 15-60 x 60 £187.50 Bushnell Spacemaster 20-45x £165.90 Other models from our range Model Price Zeiss (West) 8 x 20B Dialyt £156.95 10 x 25B Dialyt £171.50 8 x 30B/GADialyt £315.00 10 x 40B/GA Dialyt £359.95 8 x 56B/GADialyt £442.50 7 X 42B/GA Dialyt £371.00 Habicht 10 x 40 Diana £239.00 Helios (Russian) 8 x 30 £23.60 Swift 8.5 x 44 Audubon HR £129.95 8 x 40 Grand Prix £76.25 7.5 X 42 Osprey (No case) £99.95 10 x 40 Trilyte £95.90 8 x 40 Belmont £49.95 Zeiss Jena 8 x 30 Jenoptem £42.95 7 x 50 Jenoptem £64.95 10 x 50 Jenoptem £64.95 8 « 32 Notarem £99.95 Prices include case and straps except where stated. Mail order to Saxmundham. Add £2 post, packing and insurance. Charles Frank Lid EDINBURGH. At Edinburgh Cameras. 57 Lothian Rd. Tel:031-229 3363 H/O and mail order: P.O. Box 5. Ronald Lane. Saxmundham. Suffolk SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE. SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 SBT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 7, AUTUMN 1983 Page Editorial ae see sae oo ate oe ie 205 Letter from Ruby Smillie... _ ae sat oat 206 Winter wader populations on the open shores of northern Scotland (R. W. Summers & N. E. Buxton) 206 The status of the Raven in southern Scotland and Northumbria (R Mearns) fo - Sas 211 Isle of May Bird Observatory & Field Station ai for 1982 (B Zonfrillo) _... mae 218 Short Notes The Ailsa Craig Fe aad in 1982 (S. Murray & S. Wanless) ; = 225 Large clutch and brood sizes of Whooper Swans (M. A. Brazil & C. J. Spray)... we 226 Unnatural mortality of Red-throated Divers (N. E. Buxton) es re sh 227 The Fulmars of Boyrees Park, , Edinburgh (A. W. Brown) tae 38 sas 228 Reviews and Current Literature _... ie edhe re 229 Letter as 0 , ae ses ioe ore 233 The Scottish Sa iuissis Club... si ah: ‘on 233 Notices ; ci bis ase sees ie ae 235 Recent Reports (oun pits) ads oO ee re 235 Stop Press siete aa “ee an 52% ne ee 236 Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor M. Doran 26th August publication Weather and Bird Behaviour by NORMAN ELKINS illustrated by Crispin Fisher The emphasis of the book is on the effects of weather on bird life and the meteorological aspects of the avian environment rather than long-term climatic influences, though the latter are not ignored. The chapter titles indicate the book's range and interest: The Weather; Flight; Feeding; Aerial Feeding; Breeding; Comfort: Migration — inception and progress, Migrational Drift and Displacement; Vagrancy; Migration of Soaring Birds; Extreme Weather, Seabirds. From such themes the author, a professional meteorologist, has constructed an intriguing and instructive picture that will be of exceptionai value to birdwatchers and ornithologists. Crispin Fisher has contributed 33 line drawings, and there is a section of 33 photographs. 24 x16cm, 240 pages plus 16 pages photographs, £12.60 nei T & AD POYSER Calton, Waterhouses, Staffordshire ST10 3JX A mini SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Volume 12 No. 7 Autumn 1983 . Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and I. R. Taylor Editorial A milestone This number of Scottish Birds marks a milestone in the history of our journal; it is exactly 25 years since Vol. 1 No. 1 appeared, in autumn 1958. The original cover design, by Len Fullerton, has been used again for this number. There have naturally been changes in SB over the years—we no longer include Latin names of birds and we publish a wider variety of content—but in one important respect there has been vir- tually no change. Scottish Birds is still printed by Walter Thomson, Printer, Selkirk, the firm that took the fledgeling journal under its wing a quarter of a century ago. As members involved with publications will be aware, a happy relationship between printer and customer goes a long way towards smoothing the production path. We are fortunate in enjoying such a relationship with the Thomsons, two generations of whom have given the club excellent service over the years. (And we are grateful to Arthur Smith, who initiated this liaison). Walter Thomson, senior partner in the firm when it took us on, is now semi-retired—he “only works an 8-hour day 5 days a week’, as he puts it himself—and brother Jim and his son Ian run the business in partnership (see plate 24). It is very much a family business, in which pleasing the customer and producing the goods on time are rated more important than fancy surroundings and spit and polish. The club owes the Thomson family a debt of gratitude for the good—and econ- omical!—service provided by them over such a long period. We feel it appropriate to record the club’s thanks in this col- umn, and also to express the hope that our happy association will continue for many years to come. Editorial changes We are pleased to announce that Iain Taylor is now provid- ing the editorial assistance formerly given by Stan da Prato. As many members will know, Stan is currently teaching in the Falklands; we have ensured that he will not lose touch with SB by making him Honorary Editor of the Index! 206 EDITORIAL 12(7) Photographic competition Readers are reminded that entries must be submitted by 30 September. See SB 12: 173 for further details. Letter from Ruby Smillie Dear Members, I wish to thank you all very much for your very kind and generous contributions to my retirement present from the club. I felt that the only way to express my gratitude to every- one was to publish this ‘thank you’ letter. The choice of the silver salver with an engraved reproduction of the Crested Tit and the dates of my 20 years service will be a constant reminder of my long and very happy association with the club. A very generous cheque was also presented to me, and it will allow me to purchase a watch—to further remind me of the ‘time’ I spent with the club—and two occa- sional chairs to share with my husband. Thank you all most sincerely. I would also like to take this opportunity to convey to council my thanks for the great honour they have bestowed on me by electing me an Honorary Member. Ruby Smillie Winter wader populations on the open shores of northern Scotland R. W. SUMMERS and N. E. BUXTON Comparatively little is yet known about the numbers of waders wintering along much of Scotland’s open coastline, especially in the remoter areas. The survey reported here extends coverage of the east coast from the Moray Firth north to Caithness. The Birds of Estuaries Enquiry (1969-1975) resulted in a great increase in our knowledge of the numbers and distribu- tion of shore-birds in Britain (Prater 1981), but as it dealt mainly with estuaries the numbers on the long stretches of open coastline remained unknown. In order to determine the size of the populations of waders on these shores and thus complement the Estuaries Enquiry the Tay Ringing Group undertook a survey of the rocky shores of eastern Scotland in the early 1970s. The results showed that approximately 1983 WINTER WADER POPULATIONS 207 47,000 waders occurred in winter on 332 km of rocky shore between Berwickshire and Morayshire (Summers et al. 1975). The survey was followed by a review of the status of the Purple Sandpiper in Britain, based on casual records (Atkinson et al. 1978). However, the resultant figures were believed to be un- derestimates, at least for parts of Scotland, so much has yet to be learned about the population of Purple Sandpipers and other waders inhabiting the open coastline of Scotland. The present survey continues the documentation of the numbers and distribution of waders on the open northern coasts of ae Detailed results have been deposited with the SOC and NCC. Caithness Sutherland Ross-shire 30km Figure Northern Scotland showing the surveyed coastline in heavy line. Study area and methods A total of 132 km of rocky and 23 km of sandy shore were surveyed on 30 and 31 January, 1 February and 1 March 1982 (Figure). Sections of cliff with a very steep inter-tidal zone were not surveyed because they support very few or no waders (Summers et al. 1975). Seventy kilometres of rocky and 12 km of sandy shore were surveyed in Caithness, from 208 WINTER WADER POPULATIONS 12(7) Sandside Head to Middleton Farm, Scrabster harbour to Point of Ness at Dunnet, Ham to Duncansby Head, and Skirza Head to Wick. The rocks of this coast are of Devonian Old Red Sandstone. Twenty-nine kilometres of rocky and 8 km of sandy shore were surveyed in East Sutherland, from Ord Point to Golspie Pier. The rocky shore there is of Jurassic oolite. Thirty-three kilometres of rocky and 3 km of sandy shore were surveyed in East Ross-shire from Balchladich near Portmahomack to Balnapaling Pier, where the rocks are Devonian Old Red Sandstone. Most of the coastline was walked when the tide was between half ebb and half flood, and the birds were counted in the manner described by Sum- mers et al. (1975). Populations of waders were expressed in terms of density: numbers per km length of shore, and numbers per km? of inter-tidal zone. Lengths and areas of shore were determined from 1: 25,000 maps, and a planimeter was used to measure areas. Results The numbers and densities of the waders on the surveyed coastline are given in Table 1. The most abundant wader on the rocky shores was the Purple Sandpiper, while high den- sities of Oystercatchers, Curlews and Turnstones were also encountered. The sandy shores supported a lower density of waders, with Ringed Plovers, Dunlins and Turnstones most abundant. Table 1. The numbers and densities of waders on the rocky and sandy coastline of northern Scotland in winter Rock (132km, 11.7km2) Sand (23km, 3.1km2) Total No. No./kmNo./km2 No. No./km No./km2 Oystercatcher 1855 1734 13.1 148.2 121 5.3 39.0 Ringed Plover 268 21 0.2 18 247 10.7 79.7 Golden Plover 57 57 0.4 4.9 Grey Plover 3 2 0.2 1 0.3 Lapwing 198 180 1.4 15.4 18 0.8 5.8 Knot 22 22 0.2 1.9 Sanderling 12 12 0.5 3.9 Purple Sandpiper 1865 1863 14.1 159.2 2 0.1 0.7 Dunlin 297 =103 0.8 8.8 194 8.4 62.6 Snipe 2 2 0.2 Bar-tailed Godwit 9 9 0.4 2.9 Curlew 1643 1588 12.0 135.7 55 2.4 WHT. Redshank 1029 912 6.9 77.9 117 5.1 37.7 Turnstone 1504 1367 104 1168 137 6.0 44.2 Total 8764 7851 59.5 6710 913 39.7 294.5 1983 WINTER WADER POPULATIONS 209 When the three counties are compared (Table 2) it is evident that the rocky shores of Caithness had the highest numbers and densities of waders, largely Oystercatchers, Purple Sand- pipers, Curlews and Turnstones. The western section of Caith- ness from Sandside Head to Middleton Farm was the only part that was not surveyed during half ebb to half flood, so that many waders were at roost sites when the count was carried out. Practically all were encountered at a major roost of 633 birds (306 Purple Sandpipers) at Brims Ness. We have assum- ed that this population was drawn from the section we sur- veyed. The rocky coastline of Sutherland supported rather few waders; Oystercatchers and Turnstones were most abun- dant whilst Purple Sandpipers were relatively scarce. Moderate numbers of waders occurred in East Ross-shire and Purple Sandpipers, Redshanks and Curlews made up most of the population. Table 2. Densities of waders per km2 on the rocky shores of eastern Scotland (Fife to Aberdeenshire)* and northern Scotland (this survey) in winter. For the northern counties total numbers are given in brackets. County Fife Angus Kinc’ne Aberd’n Ross Suth’d Caithness Oystercatcher 54 170 115 113 52 51 229 ; (136) (134) (1464) Ringed Plover 10 5 3 12 ( 3 21 Grey Plover 2 é ) 2) Golden Plover 2 121 54 5 7 (14) (43) Lapwing 5 26 (14) (166) Turnstone 179 135 191 289 68 56 164 d (176) (145) (1046) Snipe + ; : (2) Bar-tailed Godwit 1 2 Curlew 42 72 33 20 92 7 208 (240) (18) (1330) Redshank 38 74 114 197 102 5 (266) (90) (556) Knot 46 557 21 3 (22) Purple Sandpiper ' 55 67 109 175 135 27 225 (351) A (1442) Dunlin 4] 56 19 54 6 10 (41) = (62) Total 467 1258 638 885 202 449 962 (1169) (526) (6156) *from Summers et al. 1975. 210 WINTER WADER POPULATIONS 12(7) Discussion The Purple Sandpiper is the only one of the species studied for which estimates of the population size in the study area have been made previously. Atkinson et al. (1978) estimated average winter maxima of 29 for East Ross-shire, 243 for East Sutherland and 599 for Caithness from casual records. The counts obtained during this survey were 351, 70 and 1444 respectively, i.e. a higher figure for two counties and a lower one for the third. It is to be expected that casual records would lead to under-estimation, for Atkinson et al. (1978) calculated that casual records accounted for only about 35% of the total population on some shores. The discrepancy between the esti- mated total of 243 for Sutherland and the counted total of 70 is difficult to understand, especially since we surveyed virtually all the coast of East Sutherland (Figure). However, the esti- mate of 243 was based on counts of flocks of no more than 55 individuals at a variety of sites, over several years (Atkin- son pers. comm.), so that over-estimates would be obtained if a flock used more than one roost within a winter, or in diff- erent years. Also it is not clear if some of the figures refer to low tide counts as well as high tide roost counts, in which case double counting would again result. Finally, we cannot discount the possibility that real population changes may have taken place, and that the differences are not purely due to variations in the way the data were collected. Comparisons can be made between the densities of waders on the rocky shores of northern and eastern Scotland (Table 2). The very high densities of Oystercatchers, Curlews and Purple Sandpipers in Caithness are apparent. The first two species were not restricted to the rocky shores for we observed many in the nearby coastal fields and recorded flights between the two habitats. Therefore it is likely that the total number of Curlews and Oystercatchers that visit the rocky shore may be even higher. The highest densities of Purple Sandpipers tended to occur in northern Scotland, from Aberdeenshire northwards, though the very low figure for Sutherland is perhaps suspect (Table 2). The northern rocky shores had lower densities of Ringed Plovers, Knots and Dunlins compared with eastern shores, and even the more truly rocky shore species, the Turnstone, tended to have lower densities in the northern counties. Acknowledgments J. Flogdell, A. Mainwood, M. Martin, M. Nicoll and R. Rae also took part in the survey. We should like to thank the Nature Conservancy Council for financial support during the survey. N. K. Atkinson provided valuable comments on the draft of this paper. 1983 WINTER WADER POPULATIONS 211 Summary A survey of 132 km of rocky and 23 km of sandy coast in Caithness, East Sutherland and East Ross-shire during the winter 1981-82 resulted in estimates of 7851 and 913 waders for the two shore types respectively. The rocky shores of Caithness were found to support the highest numbers and densities, and the main species were Purple Sandpiper, Oystercatcher is Curlew, though the latter two species also made use of coastal elds. References ATKINSON, N. K., Davies, M. and Prater, A. J. 1978. The winter distribution of Purple Sandpipers in Britain. Bird Study 25: 223-228 MJ Prater, A. J. 1981. Estuary Birds of Britain and Ireland. Poyser HM SumMMErs, R. W., ATKINSON, N. K. and NIcouu, M. 1975. Wintering wader populations on the rocky shores of eastern Scotland. Scot. Birds 8: 299-308. R. W. Summers, 353 Arbroath Road, Dundee, Angus N. E. Buxton, 4 Sand Street, Coulragreir, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis RAVEN A. Dowell The status of the Raven in southern Scotland and Northumbria RICHARD MEARNS Extensive afforestation and other land-use changes have markedly affected Raven populations in some areas. This paper documents the continuing decline in the Borders and south-west. In southern Scotland and northern England Raven numbers and distribution were formerly stable, with only slight annual or short term fluctuations (Ratcliffe 1962), but numbers have been declining since the 1950s (Ratcliffe 1965). Marquiss, New- ton and Ratcliffe (1978) surveyed the inland Ravens in these regions in 1974 and 1975 and found that territorial pairs had declined by 40% or more, from at least 81 regularly occupied territories to 48. 212 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 12(7) a, 1968-72 b, 1974-5 Figure Distribution for 10 km squares, of Ravens in Southern Scotland and Northumbria. For maps b and c the smallest dots represent single birds and larger dots represent pairs; the largest dots represent con- firmed nesting, for which a lined nest was considered to be the minimum requirement. (0 denotes that none of the known territories in a 10 km square were visited). This roughly corresponds to the possible, probable and confirmed breeding classification of the BTO Atlas (map a, redrawn from Sharrock (1976), with permission). 1983 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 213 The opportunity arose during the 1981 National Peregrine Survey to re-examine the status of inland Ravens in southern Scotland and Northumbria and also to census coastal Ravens, which Marquiss et al had not done. This paper attempts to document the extent of decline in coastal Ravens; and to examine the 1981 status of inland Ravens in the light of the prediction made by Marquiss et al of a further decline if blan- Ket conifer afforestation continued. Siudy area and methods Northumberland and all Scottish counties south of the Forth- Clyde line except northern Ayrshire and Renfrewshire were included in the survey. A description of the study area is given by Marquiss et al (1978). The main objective was to examine inland Raven territories occupied in 1974 and 1975, and all known former coastal territories. Many inland territories deserted before 1974 were visited as well, and cliffs for which there were no known Raven records were examined. This pro- vided a check on any possible changes in distribution. The few Raven territories that had only tree nest sites were also checked. The distribution and number of coastal Ravens in 1945-60 and 1961-62 were determined from old records sup- plied by various bird-watchers. Recording of occupied terri- tories was on a basis roughly comparable to that used for the BTO Atlas (Sharrock 1976) (see Figure). Results The distribution of Ravens in 1968-72, 1974-5 & 1981 is summarised in the Figure. inland occupation In 1981, 35 territories were occupied (Table), but at 2 only single Ravens were seen and 3 were unoccupied in 1974 or 1975. Sixteen territories have therefore Table Numbers of occupied Raven territories in southern Scotland and Northumbria. Figures in parentheses give the number of pairs breeding Total No. of known territories 1945-60] 1961-62 1974-75 1981 Coastal Kirkcudbright 12 7(?) 10(7) 2(1) 1(1) E. Wigtownshire 9 (6(?) 7(6)* 1(1)* 2(2) W. Wigtownshire 20 10(?) 7(6)* 10(8)* 6(3-4) S. Ayrshire 10 6(?) 3(2) 6(3) 3-4(1-3) Total S.W. coast 51 29(?) 27(21)* 19(13)* 12-13(7-10) Total inland 123 81(?) —- 48(38) 35(23) {For 1945-60, numbers of regularly occupied territories are minima. *Incomplete data (see text). 214 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 12(7) become deserted since 1975; 15 of these were also unoccupied in 1980 (records from B. Little, R. Roxburgh and RM) and are unlikely to have merely been overlooked. The other deserted territory had not been visited since 1975. Thirty-nine territories deserted by 1974, including 3 that had only tree nests, were found to be still unoccupied in 1981, but one had been reoccupied. Between 1976 and 1980, there were two cases of reoccupation of former territories, but by pairs which bred for only one or two years and then disappeared (G. Carse, D. Kelly, pers. comm.). One territory was found for which there was no previous record. There was no evidence of a change from cliff to tree sites, though some nests in trees in unworked areas could have been missed. Cliff nests were unlikely to have been overlooked. Inland breeding success All but five nests were on cliffs; one pair nested on an old bridge and 4 in trees. In 1981, 23 pairs were known to have bred, 17 successfully. There were too few records to assess average clutch size, but the average size of 10 successful broods was 3.2. Apart from two territories where only single Ravens were seen, ten pairs apparently did not breed, but in four cases an attempt might have occurred at an unknown alternative nest-site. The number of pairs breeding was probably under-estimated slightly. Coastal occupation On the south-west coast there were earlier records for 51 territories, 29 of which were formerly regular and 22 of uncertain status. In 1961-62 the average nearest neighbour distances, between regularly occupied terri- tories, were 4.3 km (South Ayrshire), 3.6 km (West Wigtown- shire), 4.6 km (East Wigtownshire) and 5.1 km (Kirkcud- bright). In many years densities would have been higher be- cause of additional pairs breeding at irregularly held territories. In 1962 six pairs in West Wigtownshire had an average nearest neighbour distance of 1.9 km; three of these pairs had nests with young on one 3.2 km cliff section (R. Stokoe). In 1981 half the occupied Raven territories were in West Wigtown- shire, where densities were formerly highest. In 1961-62 there could have been 37 or more occupied terri- tories as pairs were at 27 sites but ten of the 29 regular nesting territories were not visited, and in 1974-75 there were probably 19-23 sites occupied. In 1981 there was no information for Ailsa Craig, which had been regularly occupied throughout the 1970’s and where breeding occurred in 1980. Assuming a pair was there in 1981 the number of occupied territories had decreased since 1974-5 from at least 29 to only 13—ie. by a minimum of 55%. The decrease varied between regions, being 1983 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 215 greatest in Kirkcudbrightshire and least in West Wigtownshire (Table). For the Berwickshire coast, which formerly supported at least three Raven territories, there was no information for 1974-75 or 1981. All cliffs on this coast have however been trequently checked for seabirds (and Peregrines in 1981) and there have been no reports of Ravens breeding since at least 1972, though there have been occasional sightings. Coastal breeding success in 1961-62 at least 21 pairs bred; the average fledged brood size was 3.0 (n=10). In 1974-75, at least 13 pairs bred; possibly 17 if the 4 unchecked territories are assumed to have been occupied. In 1981 ten pairs may have bred, though for only 7 was breeding confirmed. One nest with eggs was destroyed, one failed soon after hatching, and 3 produced broods of one, two and three young. In the 5 other cases the final outcome was unknown. This gives an overall decline from 29 regular breeding pairs in 1961-2 to 7-10 pairs in 1981; a minimum decline of 66% in 20 years. Discussion Extent of decline The three maps should be compared with caution, as they are based on data obtained by different meth- ods and cover periods of different length. In the Atlas survey 1968-72 alternative nesting places of the same pair could have been in different 10 km squares in successive years, leading to an over-estimate of confirmed and probable breeding. In 1981 neither all squares nor all territories were examined, but all territories occupied in 1974 or 1975 were checked so any fur- ther decline in this sample was recorded. The maps show a continuing decline and contraction in the breeding range of the Raven in southern Scotland and North- umbria, though this has probably been less abrupt since 1968- 72 than the maps would suggest. Marquiss et al deliberately classed some territories as occupied in 1974-75 although they suspected the birds present were from a neighbouring territory. (This applied also to 1981, but to a lesser extent because there were fewer Ravens). The decline in inland territories by 1974- 75 was therefore possibly more extensive (by about 5 pairs) than Marquiss et al stated. The percentage decline on the south-west coast was almost certainly higher than the results suggest, as this area was poorly documented before 1961 and probably held more than the 29 ‘regular’ territories recorded. Reasons for decline Cliff climbing, displacement by Golden Eagles, egg robbing and persecution affect at most a small proportion of the Ravens in this area (Marquiss et al 1978) and organochlorine residues in eggs are low (Ratcliffe 1965, 1970). As both Raven and Peregrine formerly co-existed in the region 216 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 12(7) at high densities (Ratcliffe 1962), the recent rise in the number of Peregrine pairs in the area cannot have caused the decline, although Peregrines do occasionally evict Ravens (in Ratcliffe 1980). Furthermore the decline in Raven numbers continued when Peregrine numbers were lowest. Inland cliff nesting Buzzards have declined in the area from about 30 pairs in the 1950s to only 2 in 1981, so this species has offered no recent competition for cliff sites. As Ravens in Britain rely heavily on sheep carrion for food (Ratcliffe 1962), Marquiss et al (1978) concluded that decline was largely due to land use change from sheep range to conifer forest. Decline was greatest in areas of most extensive affores- tation, and desertion of particular territories was coincident with planting of the areas surrounding the nest sites. In some cases desertion took place when sheep were removed and be- fore planting took place. In unafforested areas sheep carrion also decreased with improvements in sheep husbandry, though to what extent was unknown. The increasing trend towards bringing sheep down to low ground or into sheds for over- wintering and for lambing might be of particular significance in this connection. In southern Scotland there are few alternative food sources once sheep are removed. Rabbits, hares, goats and deer occur in some areas but are not always available at all seasons and many die in thicket forest where Ravens would not find them. Voles can be an important food source for some pairs, but only until the trees reach thicket stage, (Newton et al 1982). Maturation of existing forest could have accounted for the disappearance of some pairs between 1975 and 1981. The con- tinued removal of sheep prior to afforestation, even though at a lower rate than in the early 1970’s, would have eliminated others. In central Galloway, the Moorfoot Hills and elsewhere in- land, occasional winter and autumn sightings of Raven flocks (usually less than 20 birds but once over 40—per R. D. Murray and others) suggests no shortage of Ravens available to occu- py vacant territories. These flocks may have been congrega- tions of birds already breeding in the area (together with their young), resident non-breeders or birds from other areas. Southern Scotland is well within range of Ravens dispersing from the Lake District and Argyll. Though the number of young produced in the study area has recently been low, this should not have been a limiting factor. It seems inescapable that food shortage has led to some former territories being abandoned. The reasons for decline on the coast are less clear but pro- 1983 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 217 bably also involve land use changes and improved sheep management. In recent years farmers have tended to push the limits of arable land towards cliff edges as well as to reclaim heather moorland and improve existing pasture. Although the amount of arable land has increased, numbers of sheep have not declined overall because improvement of pastures has allowed higher stocking levels. However, improved stock management has minimised available carrion. It is not known whether the decline in Ravens in south Scotland has been paralleled in any other areas. Weir (1978) reported a reduction in numbers and breeding performance in the Spey and Findhorn valleys between 1964-68 and 1977, but poisoned or killed Ravens were found at eight of the 22 terri- tories studied. On Mainland Orkney, however, the number of Raven nests was more or less constant over the six year period 1972-77 (Booth 1979). Elsewhere in Britain, Marquiss et al (1978) reported no serious decline in the English Lake District for 1974-76 and in Snowdonia there was an apparent increase from the mid 50’s to 1978-81 (P. Dare pers. comm). In both these areas there has been little afforestation and no other marked land use changes. In an area in mid Wales, with the highest recorded Raven density in Britain, the number of occu- pied territories declined only 9% from 1975 to 1979. Afforesta- tion had occurred, but in smaller blocks than in southern Scotiand, and sheep numbers remained very high (average numbers in mid-winter were 150 sheep per km?) so that all pairs still had access to a good carrion supply (Newton et al 1982). The Raven seems bound to decline in parts of Britain, a victim of changes in land management and animal husbandry. This species may present a conservation problem in certain regions as its breeding range becomes further reduced; in some areas it is already less numerous than the Peregrine. It would clearly be worthwhile to assess Raven numbers in other parts of Britain, especially where previous data are available for comparison. Any future Peregrine survey would provide a good opportunity for doing so. Acknowledgments For permission to work on their ground and help in other ways I thank the Forestry Commission, the Buccleuch Estates and all other landowners and shepherds. For historical information on coastal Ravens I am grateful to A. F. el the late H. Boase, A. Brown, R. C. Dickson, E. C. Fellowes, T. Halliday, R. H. Hogg, W. Hughes, DL, Be. the late R. Nelson, C. Park, D. A. Ratcliffe, @ ’ Riddle, G. Shepherd, J. Sinclair, J. Skilling, Dz. Skilling, the late R. Stokoe, 1a AS Urquhart, R. Walls S. Wanless, A. D. Watson and G. Wilmott. For help received with the 1981 Survey I thank G. Carse, E. C. Fellowes, R. H. Hogg, D. L. Irving, T. Irving, R. D. Murray, C. Park, G. Riddle, R. Roxburgh, G. Shepherd, I. Willis, J. F. Young and 218 RAVENS IN SOUTHERN SCOTLAND 12(7) B. Zonfrillo. B. Little and S. Petty supplied details for Northumbria. Dr M. Marquiss, Dr I. Newton and Dr D. A. Ratcliffe kindly supplied unpub- lished details from their 1974-75 survey and gave helpful criticism of the original draft of this paper. Summary In a survey of Southern Scotiand and Northumbria in 1981, 35 inland Raven territories were occupied, numbers having declined by about 70% since the 1950’s. Twelve or thirteen coastal territories were occupied and 7-10 pairs probably bred; a minimum decline of about 66% since the 1950’s. Inland the decline was associated with the removal of sheep prior to afforestation and with improvements in sheep husbandry. On the coast, decline was thought to be due to improved farming practices and land use changes which reduced the amount of available sheep carrion. These changes included a reduction in areas of coastal moorland, improvement of pasture and an increase in the amount of cultivated land. References EBooTH, C. J. (1979). Ravens in Orkney. Scot. Birds, 10: 261-267 HM Marauiss, M., NEWTON, I. & RATCLIFFE, D. A. (1978). The decline of the Raven, Corvus corar, in relation to afforestation in southern Scotland and northern Eng- land. J. Appl. Ecol. 15: 129-144 | Newton, I., Davis, P. E. & Davis, J. E. (1982). Ravens and Buzzards in relation to sheep-farming and forestry in Wales. J. Appl. Ecol. (in press) | RATCLIFFE, D. A. (1962). Breeding density in the peregrine Falco peregrinus and raven Corvus coraz, Ibis 104: 13-39 B RATCLIFFE, D. A. (1965). Organo-chlorine residues in some raptor and corvid eggs from northern Britain. Brit. Birds 58(3) 65-81 § RATCLIFFE, D. A. (1970). Changes attributable to pesticides in egg breakage frequency and eggshell thickness in some British Birds. J. Appl. Ecol. 7: 67-107 HM RatTcuirreE, D. A. (1980). The Peregrine Falcon. Berkhamsted § SHaRROCK, J. T. R. (1976). The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland. Berkhamsted J WEtrr, D. N. (1978). Effect of poisoning on Raven and raptor populations. Scot. Birds 10: 31. Richard Mearns, ‘Connansknowe’, Kirkton, Dumfries. Isle of May Bird Observatory and Field Station report for 1982 Prepared for the Observatory Committee by B. ZONFRILLO, Honorary Secretary The Observatory opened on 27th March and closed on 13th November. Five new species were added to the island’s list, Rough-legged Buzzard, Great Snipe*, Rufous Bush Chat*, Dusky Warbler* and Arctic Redpoll*. A sub-species of “flava’”’ wagtail, the Ashy-headed Wagtail* was also new. In October the largest concentrations of migrant birds ever recorded occurred. Mike Fraser, NCC’s summer warden, assisted with record keeping and ringing and Drs M. P. Harris and S. Wan- *denotes record subject to acceptance by Rarities Committee. 1983 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1982 219 less gave much valuable assistance. A record 9998 birds were ringed. Migration summary Late March showed the first signs of migration with Ring Ouzel, Black Redstart, Wheatear, and 2 Goldcrests, 2 Merlins, a Peregrine and 2 Short-eared Owls. Northerly winds suppres- sed migration from the south and east and arrival of many migrants was later than usual. The first Chiffchaff arrived on 6th April and a Linnet, a Siskin and three Blackbirds on 14th. The first Willow Warbler and 8 Wheatears appeared on 15th, and an early Yellow Wagtail on 21st. Swallow, Sand Martin and Whimbrel all arrived before the end of the month. May began wet and windy, bringing a Barnacle Goose and a Swift on 4th, the first Whitethroat and House Martin on 5th, 2 Black Redstarts on 7th and on 9th a White Wagtail, Ring Ouzel and Scarlet Rosefinch. Easterly breezes on 11th May were enough to bring in a Wryneck, 2 Redstarts, a Sedge Warbler, a Wood Warbler, 9 Whinchats, 20 Wheatears, 5 Tree Pipits, 3 Yellow Wagtails and a Blackcap. Next day Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Spotted Flycatcher and 40 Willow Warblers were seen and on 13th a Turtle Dove arrived. On 15th a ’flava’ wagtail arrived and was identified as M. f. cinereocapilla, the Ashy-headed Wagtail*. A force 5 south-east wind on 16th May brought down a good selection of migrants including Tufted Duck, Common Sandpiper, Cuckoo, Pied Flycatcher, Blue- throat and Osprey, and on 17th a Red-backed Shrike. On 19th an immature Marsh Harrier was sighted but from then until the 28th migration was slow, with only 11 Canada Geese pro- viding interest as they flew north. A Red-throated Pipit* on 2nd June, a Quail on 6th and another Osprey on 7th were highlights as migration slowed to a trickle. July, usually a dead month for migration, was brought to life by a light north east wind bringing Whinchat, Whimbrel and Wheatear. Early on 12th July a small bird fluttering in the catching box of the Low Trap proved to be an Arctic Redpoll’*, the first record for the May. Occurring at mid-season this boreal species was, to say the least, unexpected. Autumn migration probably began on 21st July with the arrival of 35 Knots. A Peregrine appeared on 27th and a Stone- chat on 30th, with a Pied Flycatcher and a Whimbrel on 31st. Early August saw 3 Ruffs and 8 Golden Plovers and a juvenile Red-backed Shrike. Icterine and Reed Warblers on 5th August, followed by a Wood Warbler on 6th, arrived in thick fog. On 7th 2 Garden Warblers, a Barred Warbler, 2 Black Redstarts and another Red-backed Shrike were ringed. Mid August brought the first movements of Arctic Skuas and Manx Shear- 220 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1982 12(7) waters past the island, while onshore Greenshank and 2 Spot- ted Redshanks on 18th probed the island’s ponds. Migration continued slowly and unspectacularly. On Ist September a falcon—possibly a Lanner—complete with jesses arrived but could not be caught. Two Stonechats and a Barred Warbler, together with a good selection of small passerines, were seen on 6th and 4 Pintail visited the island on 7th. On 14th an adult Little Gull was among some terns at the South Ness. A north east wind on 19th September resulted in a small fall of mig- rants which included Marsh and Melodious Warblers, both trapped. A Pomarine Skua was offshore on that date. On 21st 3 Reed Buntings were trapped (one bearing a Norwegian ring), and Pink-footed and Barnacle Geese were seen, while at sea 2 Sooty Shearwaters moved north. A Lapland Bunting arrived on 23rd. On 28th September 25 Arctic Skuas were counted and a Black Guillemot was seen. October Ist saw the start of bulk migration with 700 Song Thrushes, 250 Redwings, 100 Chaffinches and 180 Meadow Pipits arriving; also present were a Turtle Dove, 8 Ring Ouzels and a Crossbill. The easterly wind picked up and the weather deteriorated and by 7th birds were arriving in ever increasing numbers, among them a Yellow-browed Warbler and a Dusky Warbler*. On 8th a Barred Warbler was caught and on 9th a Long-eared Owl was trapped. October 10th began as a cloudy wet day with wind easterly force 4 rising to force 6 by evening. During that day 500 Goldcrests landed and 500 Redwings passed through. A Yellow-browed Warbler, a Reed Warbler and 30 Chiffchaffs were noted and a Rufous Bush Chat* sat on the rocks above Pilgrims Haven. An exhausted Bluethroat was ringed. Next day brought identical weather conditions and a massive fall of birds occurred, blanketing the entire island. Totals for 11th October included at least 15,000 Gold- crests, 4000 Robins, 600 Blackcaps, 800 Redwings, 200 Chiff- chaffs, 400 Bramblings, 50 Redstarts and 50 Garden Warblers. Two Pallas’s Warblers* were ringed and 3 Great Grey Shrikes, a Barred Warbler, and 5 Snow Buntings were seen. Waves of migrating birds continued to come in and on 12th totals showed 2000 Robins, 100 Dunnocks, 3000 Redwings, 400 Field- fares and 6 Willow Warblers. At sea 15 Great Skuas were counted while ashore a Sparrowhawk, 2 Peregrines and a Rough-legged Buzzard were watched, along with a Shore Lark. On 13th the rain and wind were unrelenting, bringing down more waves of migrants—4000 Robins, 1500 Blackbirds, 600 Fieldfares, 8000 Redwings, 2000 Song Thrushes and 150 Sis- kins. Blackcaps totalled 1000 and another Pallas’s Warbler appeared with 30 Reed Buntings, 30 Ring Ouzels and a total of 20 owls, mainly Short-eared, circling the north plateau. ‘purysq uey Moydou pure (1YSt) WIP JoyIOIg SIY YA “‘prvogxoy sty ye paves udas si Jjaswy UOSWOY |, Jayem “(S07 “d) YAp{]eS “uOsWOYL Jaye JO Way Apruey 94) AQ SpPAE, YSIIOIG jo Bunuiid sieak ¢Z sajajd wood ansst styL Jadniq Ja1inw ‘anboyo & pue JOAes paarisuo ue YIM Joy pojuasaid “odeiq ueAy ‘WUspIsald oy) yorum ye Aqied e Aq poxieu sem ‘ie 9199G diys.iaq way] $,qnjd oy} sev sseak OZ Joye ‘JeIner saiiwg Aqny “epz ALvId PS RSS —leeesnatiiemte. Tee yi eae Piate 25a. Afforestation has greatly reduced Raven numbers in southern Scotland (p. 211) This wooded gully (to right) held nesting Ravens when it was surrounded by open sheep- walk; it is now within Ae Forest, Dumfriesshire. Barbara Mearns b. In the Western Isles, breeding Red-throated Divers are apparently among the birds drowned in gill-nets while feeding close inshore. (p. 227). W. S. Paton _Piate 26 The rocky shores of Caithness support much larger numbers of wintering Purple Sandpipers and Turnstones than do those of Easter Ross and East Sutherland, and the densities of Purple Sandpiper (above) there in 1981-82 were the highest yet recorded in Scotland (p. 206). | R. J. Chandler | Pirate 27a. This Arctic Redpoll, an unexpected and unseasonal visitor trapped on 12 July 1982, was the first recorded on the Isle of May. N. Aebischer b. Barred Warblers occur there regularly on autumn passage, always in this juvenile plumage. B. Zonfrillo 1983 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1982 221 Numbers of birds dropped on 14th as the wind veered northerly for a spell. A Jack Snipe was ringed and a Little Gull seen. On 15th a Glaucous Gull, 3 Pomarine Skuas and 2 Arctic Skuas were noted during a seawatch. On 16th the wind veered easterly again, but skies were clear. Similar conditions on 17th meant that migration was generally rapid with birds merely resting briefly before continuing westwards. Thrush numbers were impressive with 2000 Blackbirds, 4000 Fieldfares, 1000 Song Thrushes, and 7000 Redwings. At sea 2 Long-tailed Ducks, a Red-breasted Merganser and a Puffin were noted. On 18th the winds died down but were still easterly and enough to bring in another Shore Lark, Rough-legged Buzzard, 2 Pomarine Skuas and 80 Dunlin. Things were quiet from 19th onwards, with only the wind-blown corpses of many unfor- tunate Goldcrests as reminders of the unprecedented fall. In early November migration was still evident with a Lap- land Bunting on 3rd, and on 5th 60 Woodcock, a Water Rail and a Black Redstart—part of a movement of birds including 5000 Blackbirds, 700 Fieldfares, 500 Song Thrushes, 1000 Redwings and 2 Glaucous Gulls. On 6th a Little Auk was seen and 400 Starlings arrived, and next day two Brent Geese were noted. A Great Snipe* was flushed on 8th and a Scaup landed on the loch. Finally a Black Redstart was ringed on 13th November. Dates of some migrants (daily maximum in brackets) Whimbrel 22 Apr-30 May; 11 Jul-13 Sep (4). Spotted Redshank 18 Aug-9 Sep (2). Cuckoo 13 May-5 Jun (1). No autumn records. Swift 4 May -28 Sep (13). Swallow 20 Apr-17 et (100). Red-throated Pipit 2 Jun (1). Bluethroat 16 May; 10-11 Oct (1). Black Redstart 31 Mar-7 Jun; 7 Aug-13 Nov (2). Marsh Warbler 19-20 Sep (1). Reed Warbler 5 Aug & 10 Oct (1). Icterine Warbler 5-6 Aug (1). Melodious Warbler 19-22 Sep (1). Barred Warbler 7 Aug-11 Oct (1). Lesser Whitethroat 12 May-6 June (8); 14 Aug-12 Oct (3). Pallas’s Warbler 11-13 Oct (2). Yellow-browed Warbler 7 ce 10 Oct (1). Chiffchaff 6 April-5 Nov (200 Willow Warbler 15 Apr-15 Oct (50). Pied Flycatcher 16 May-12 Jun (1); 31 Jul-20 Sept (3). Very low nos. Breeding birds Numbers of breeding Puffins continue to increase, as do Kittiwakes. One Kittiwake chose to nest “inland” at Holymans Road, raising two young. Around 1600 Shags bred, a record total. With Herring Gull numbers remaining low, no_ birds 222 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1982 12(7) were culled this year but a number died of what was probably botulism. 152 Eider nests were found and at least 27 pairs of Oystercatchers bred. Breeding Fulmars dropped slightly, with 58 chicks reared. Guillemot and Razorbill numbers remain high. Common Terns again bred, with 14 nests found, producing at least 17 young. Fresh eggs were laid during August suggest- ing birds were perhaps failed breeders from elsewhere, probab- ly Farne Islands. Four pairs of Lapwings laid eggs but were again unsuccessful. Around 20 pairs of Feral Pigeons bred and the two pairs of Stock Doves were once more present and one young bird was seen. At least 25 pairs of Rock Pipits bred and at least 115 young were reared. Five pairs of Pied Wagtails raised 21 young and four pairs of Swallows raised at least 24 young. Ringing The record total of 9998 birds ringed comprised 6762 sea- birds and waders and 3236 passerines. Record totals were achieved for Shag 1118, Eider 46, Oystercatcher 57, Lesser Black-backed Gull 704, Guillemot 190, Razorbill 41, Swallow 49, Robin 731, Blackcap 217, and Chiffchaff 71. Herring Gull topped the totals with 1997, Puffin coming second at 1958. New species ringed were Teal (1), Pallas’s Warbler (2), and Arctic Redpoll (1). Unusual species ringed were Jack Snipe (2), Moorhen (1), Marsh Warbler (1) and Melodious Warbler (1). Only five Pied Flycatchers were ringed. Rock Pipits were ringed and colour ringed by Mike Fraser and the total of 71 chicks marked was more than the British total for 1981. An adult and a juvenile Gannet were caught sleeping on the rocks and 20 Storm Petrels were lured. Storm Petrels were twice sighted at night over the island without lures playing. Derek Skilling’s party, present during the October fall, correctly decided to refrain from ringing exhausted Goldcrests, other- wise the ringing total could have been greatly increased. Ringing recoveries show the origins of some of the birds trapped during the influx. Duncan Bell ringed the Observa- tory’s second ever Jack Snipe and a week later Mike Carrier ringed the third. Most of the 640 Blackbirds ringed were caught by Keith Brockie, Sarah Wanless and Peter Kinnear during the large movement of thrushes on 5th and 6th Novem- ber. Ringing recoveries Following the coldest winter on record surprisingly few of the island’s ringed birds were affected to any great extent. More Shags died from oiling and fish nets than were found dead during the severe weather. Colour marked birds on the 1983 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1983 223 island included a Lapwing dye marked at Langbank on the Clyde, a wing-tagged Heron from Perthshire and further Purple Sandpipers colour ringed in Norway. Recoveries and controls are as follows, age codes follow species and are bracketed. Ringed Isle of May Recovered/controlled Fulmar (1) 14.08.80 18.08.81 Haamstede, maine Cr ea Storm Petrel (4) 04.08.79 03.08.82 Fetlar, Shetland (control) Shag (1) 23.06.81 19.01.82 Hurlingham Lake, London (dead) Shag (1) 18.07.79 04.03.82 Bewel Bridge Reservoir, Sussex (dead) Shag (1) 21.06.81 26.12.81 Ijmuiden, Netherlands (sight record) Great 16.12.74 05.06.81 Stormyra, More-og-Roms- Black-backed Gull dal, Norway (shot) Kittiwake (1) 23.06.82 12.11.82 Pas-de-Calais, ata 4) ea Kittiwake (1) 19.07.76 07.11.81 Eider Estuary, Schleswig- Holsten, West Germany (dead) The Fulmar (from the top of the “‘Angel’’) is our first in Holland and the Storm Petrel at Fetlar was of breeding age. Inland Shags are unusual; the London bird was found during a period of extreme cold. Few Shags cross the North Sea—the Dutch bird stayed a few days and came under close scrutiny from the local birdwatchers. Long-eared Owl (2) 28.10.79 03.02.82 Drente, nas akill) roadki Long-eared Owl (2) 09.10.82 12.11.82 Prestwick Airport, Strath- clyde (entered fire station, released) Two reports of this species double the past total and indicate possible origins and destinations of migrants. Ringed Isle of May Recovered/controlled Pied Wagtail (39) 10.08.81 07.01.82 Atherstone, Warwickshire (dying, hypothermia) Robin (4) 13.10.82 23.10.82 Ramsey, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire (dead) Blackbird (40) 29.10.75 03.05.82 Lavia, Turku-Pori, Finland (dead) Blackbird (6°) 04.04.81 25.07.82 Teuva, Vaasa, maa 4) ea Song Thrush (3) 07.10.77 07.02.82 Toledo, Spain (dead, hunted) Starling (3) 27.09.79 26.07.82 Middlesborough, Cleve- land, (dead) The Robin was a transient from the October fall (see below) and the Blackbirds resting on the island during autumn and 224 ISLE OF MAY REPORT FOR 1982 12(7) spring follow a well established pattern of migration to the Baltic countries. Ringed elsewhere Recovered/controlled Isle of May Storm Petrel (4) 21.07.82 29.07.82 (control) Burravoe, Yell, Shetland Shag (1) 15.07.81 Foula, Shetland 18.05.82 (dead) Oystercatcher (4) 25.08.68 18.05.82 (controlled, breeding) Fife Ness Common Tern (4) 29.08.77 04.07.82 (dead at nest) Seaforth, Liverpool Robin (6) 25.04.82 Store Faerder, 12.10.82 (control) Vestfold, Norway Robin (3) 18.09.82 near Pori, 11.10.82 (control) Finland Blackbird (4) 18.03.81 Hanstholm, 13.10.82 (control) Jylland, Denmark Reed Bunting (49) 23.07.82 21.09.82 (control) Arstad, Rogaland, Norway The Storm Petrel is, to date, the most rapid movement from the northern isles to the May; Shags from that region are unusual. The Oystercatcher was ringed as an adult and there- fore at least 15 years old. Trapping terns at Liverpool has revealed a route from Farne Isles and it is likely that our bird originated there. The Robins and Blackbird are controls from the October fall and the Reed Bunting is the first for that species on record. Observatory notes A new butterfly, the Clouded Yellow Colias croceus, was recorded on 3rd June and the Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta was particularly abundant. The Sea Mammals Research Unit tagged several Grey Seal Halichoerus grypus pups in order to study movements. Air-sea rescue were alerted in June when a small craft got into difficulties off the west landing, the occupant was saved (as was an Isle of May rescuer!) but the boat was smashed apart in the heavy swell, despite being secured. New Principal Keeper Norrie Muir joined the lighthouse staff from Fair Isle and even he was astonished by the number of birds on the island in October. We are again indebted to the Northern Lighthouse Board and the keepers on the May for all their help, and to Jimmy Smith for his expert seamanship in often difficult conditions. Bernard Zonfrillo, 28 Brodie Road, Glasgow G21 3SB 1983 SHORT NOTES 225 Short Notes The Ailsa Craig Gannetry in 1982 The gannetry on Ailsa Craig has been counted more frequently than any other colony in Britain, with approximately annual counts from 1936 to 1976 (Fisher and Vevers 1943, Gibson 1951, Scottish Bird Reports, Wanless 1979). Between 1949 and 1976 the population increased at about 3% per annum from c. 5000 pairs to 15,0U0 occupied sites. No counts have been published since 1976. The present count was made from colour slides taken from the sea at 1600 hrs on 10th July 1982. These were projected on to a screen and the images counted, It was possible to distinguish pairs and single birds but not whether any nest material was present, so counts are given as the total number of occupied sites; this unit was also used in the 1976 counts. The colony sections in table 1 correspond to those used pre- viously (Gibson 1951) except that we have lumped some adjacent areas. ‘:wo complete counts of the slides differed by only 132, which is 0.6% of the mean, although counts of individual areas varied by more than this (table 1). Table 1. The number of occupied Gannet sites on Ailsa Craig in July 1982 (2 separate cuouits—see text) compared to counts made in June and August 1976. The proportional change was calculated using the means of the 1976 and 1982 counts 1976 1982 % increase Colony section 24th June/6th August 10th July 1976 to 1982 Sliddery and Sliddery Top Ridge 369/444 639/670 61 Slunk and Above Ashydoo 1179/1262 1317/1375 10 Balvaar Top Ridge and Balvaar 1152/1063 1444/1483 32 Balvaar to Cairn and the Cairn 2669/2763 3125/3265 18 Barrheads, Cairn to Mare and the Mare 6327/6654 8540/8635 32 Stranny S(3) and S(4) 1043/1276 1569/1500 32 Stranny S(1) and S(2) 700/646 1171/1080 67 Main Craigs, Main and East 799/799 892/864 10 Main Craigs Top, Main, East and Far East 1543/1298 2080/2037 45 Total 15781/16205 20777/20909 30 The 1982 counts, of 20777 and 20909 occupied sites, when compared with figures of 15781 and 16205 in June and August 1976, give a mean rate of increase of 4.5% per annum. The increase was, however, not uniform throughout the colony and varied from 1.6% per annum in Slunk and Above Ashydoo and Main Craigs Main and East to 8.2% and 9.0% per annum in Sliddery and Top Ridge and Stranny S(1) and S(2) respectively. Increases on the steeper cliff faces were mostly relatively small, the main increases being in cliff top areas where the birds had colonised the grassy inland slopes. Since 1976 there has been a noticeable loss of vege- 226 SHORT NOTES 12(7) tation and some soil erosion on the landward side of Sliddery Top Ridge, Balvaar, Barrheads and above Stranny Point and Main Craigs. In 1976 there were three main “club” areas where immature and adult Gannets gathered. All these now occupy larger areas (table 2) particularly that on the Ashydoo to Cairn plateau. It was impossible to tell from the photographs if these birds were breeding but their dispersion sugges- ted that some might have nests. Table 2. The number of occupied sites in “club” areas on Ailsa Craig in 1976 and 1982. The 1976 figure is the highest count recorded between May and September % increase Club area 1976 1982 1976 to 1982 Below the Mare 389 501 29 Ashydoo to Cairn Plateau 230 885 285 Stranny Point 167 225 35 Bed o’ Grass c.50 60 c.20 Total c.836 1671 c.97 The continuing increase in the gannetry has resulted in most of the suitable cliff edges apparently becoming full. An exception is Main Craigs Far East which appears suitable and was used up to 1963 (J. A. Gibson pers. comm.). For some unknown reason the Gannets do not like this area and the colony is expanding on to the upper slopes of the island and on the grassy areas half way up the west cliffs which were previously used as clubs. Such also occurred on the Bass Rock and Grassholm. If Gannets are prepared to colonise the upper slopes on Ailsa Craig it will be a long time before their numbers are limited by a shortage of nest sites. References FISHER, J. and VEVErRS, H. G. 1943. The breeding distribution, history and population of the North Atlantic Gannet Sula bassana. J. Ecol. 12: 1738- 213 @ Grsson, J. A. 1951. The breeding distribution, population and his- tory of the birds of Ailsa Craig. Scot. Nat. 63: 73-100, 159-177. Hj WANLEss, S. 1979. Aspects of Population Dynamics and Breeding Ecology in the Gannet Sula bassana (L.) of Ailsa Craig. Unpublished PhD thesis. S. MURRAY and S. WANLESS Large clutch and brood sizes of Whooper Swans Clutch size data given in B.W.P. Vol. 1 (1977), suggest that any large broods of Whooper Swans wintering in Britain belong to the Continental rather than the Icelandic breeding population. Ranges for clutch size as published in B.W.P. are: 3-5 (n=9) from Iceland, 4-7 (n=7) from U.S.S.R., and 2-7 (n=18) from Finland. However evidence from Scotland suggests that the range estimate for the clutch size of the Icelandic ‘population is too low, and consequently no safe conclusions can be drawn as to the origin of large broods observed wintering anywhere in Britain. Recent observations of broods of more than 5 cygnets wintering in Scotland include: two of 6, Loch of Strathbeg, Grampian, one of 6, Loch Davan, Grampian, both in October 1978 (Bell 1979, Kirk pers comm.); one of 6 and one of 7, South Uist, Western Isles, in November 1978; one of 7, Tiree, Strathclyde, and one of 8, South Uist, both October 1980 (C.J.S. pers. obs.), and similar large broods have previously been 1983 SHORT NOTES 227 reported elsewhere (Boyd and Eltringham 1962, Hewson 1963). Further- more there is conclusive evidence that broods, and therefore clutches, larger than 5 do occur on the breeding grounds in Iceland itself (Kinien 1963, M. A. B. and N. Stronach, pers. obs.). The occurrence in Scotland of broods larger than 5 cygnets would not of itself prove that the Icelandic clutch size range is greater than previously recorded. However, ringing recoveries and observations of marked birds support the view that Whooper Swans wintering in Scot- land are of Icelandic origin (M.A.B. pers. obs.), while amalgamation of broods either prior to or during migration is unlikely. Territorial pairs are very aggressive on the breeding grounds (M.A.B. pers. obs.), and families move together as a unit on migration (B.W.P. Vol. 1.). Previously Cadbury (1975) reported a brood of 6 cygnets at Welney, Norfolk, and from this and other very limited evidence the belief seems to have started that not only the Welney flock, but all flocks in southern England are of Continental origin (e.g. Richards 1980). However, al- though we do not yet know the exact extent to which numbers in iSouthern Britain might be augmented by Continental birds, recent ringing evidence suggests that the Welney flock is also of Icelandic origin (M.A.B., pers. obs.). Large broods of Whooper Swans therefore cannot confidently be attributed to the Continental population, and their occurrence in Iceland and Britain suggests that the clutch sizes of the different populations overlap completely, previous samples being too small to be represen- tative. Observations by M.A.B. were made while he held a Stirling University Studentship and with the aid of The Vincent Wildlife Trust; observations by C.J.S. were made as part of research financed by N.E.R.C. in a grant to Prof. G. M. Dunnet, Aberdeen University. References BELL, M. V. 1979. Whooper Swan breeding success in 1978. North-East Scot- land Bird Rep. 1978: 40-41 HM Boyp, H. and ELTRINGHAM, S. K. 1962. The Whooper Swan in Great Britain. Bird Study 9: 217-241 Hj CapBury, C. J. 1975. Populations of swans at the Ouse Washes, England. Wildfowl 26: 148-159 # Cramp, S. and Simmons, K. E. L. (eds.) 1977. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. VYol. 1. Oxford HM Hrwson, R. 1963. Whooper Swans at Loch Park, Banffshire, 1955-1961. Bird Study 10: 208-210 M KINLEN, L. 1963. Ringing Whooper Swans in Iceland, 1962. Wildfowl Trust Ann. Rep. 14: 107-113 fH RicHarps, A. J. 1980. The Birdwatcher’s A-Z. London. M. A. BRAZIL and C. J. SPRAY Unnatural mortality of Red-throated Divers In spring and summer in the Outer Hebrides the calls of Red-throated Divers flying to and from their inshore feeding grounds are a common- place sound. The semi-enclosed Broad Bay, north-east of Stornoway, is an important feeding area for these birds in northern Lewis. During the past few years, whilst carrying out Beached Bird Surveys in Broad Bay, I have noted unusual numbers of corpses of this species. In July 1980 I found 2 on Coll Beach, and on Traigh Mhor Tolsta I found 4 in June 1981 and a further 10 in July. All were adults in breeding plumage. The two birds in 1980 were not examined for injuries, but most of the 14 in 1981 had either legs or wings missing, or these limbs were broken. This was cbviously not natural mortality, but no direct evidence 228 SHORT NOTES 12(7) of the cause of death was found. However a large number of gill-nets are set along the coasts of Broad Bay for various species of tish and it is likely that the birds were caught and drowned during feeding. The injuries, which are consistent with those of Cormorants and Shags killed in similar situations on the east coast, were probably inflicted during extraction from the nets. The fact that no corpses of Great Northern Divers have been found, although Broad Bay holds substantial numbers of wintering and migratory birds, provides supporting circum- stantial evidence, as no nets were set at the times ot year when this species occurred. ‘the most worrying feature of the situation is that it is activities on the feeding grounds, far distant from the nest, that are the problem; and that they are resulting in the death of breeding adults. ‘the pro- tection afforded to the Red-throated Diver at its nest, under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), is of no help in this case. Fourteen birds, representing between 7 and 14 pairs, must comprise a significant proportion of the north Lewis breeding population of this species. N. E. BUXTON The Spring 1983 number of Birds recorded Guillemots suffering a sim- ilar fate in salmon nets off north-east Scotland.—Eds. The Fulmars of Holyrood Park, Edinburgh During the late 1960’s and early 1970’s there were occasional reports of Fulmars flying inland over the Edinburgh area. Observations were mainly of single birds, in January-July, and related especially to Holy- rood Park, central Edinburgh, Blacktord Hill and Torphin. The first evidence of birds occupying a potential breeding site was in 1971, when 3 were seen for several months on ledges at Torphin Quarry, at the NW corner of the Pentland Hills 10 km from the sea. In 1976 regular observations in Holyrood Park suggested that the first serious attempt at colonising the ledges of Salisbury Crags (4 km inland) was taking place; that year up to 4 birds were present trom February until early September. By 1980 counts of over 30 birds were reported, especially during March-June, but little information was supplied on the number of sites occupied. There was certainly no evidence of breeding and most birds appeared to depart by mid-June/early July. Birds were also noted sitting or prospecting ledges on Arthur’s Seat at the Gutted Haddie, and recently have shown an interest in Samson’s Ribs and the crags above. Up to 1980 the data suggested that young birds were prospecting Salisbury Crags for new breeding sites. In July 1981 the first evidence of breeding occurred when a member of the public called at the RSPB office at 17 Regent Terrace, carrying an almost fully grown Fulmar chick which had by all accounts fallen at his feet below the crag! The bird was released at Portobello. There was unfortunately no proof of breeding at the 10-11 sites occupied in 1982, although the difficulty of observing eggs or chicks makes the gathering of such information far from easy. The number of birds using Salisbury Crags is increasing and they appear to be staying longer, suggesting that further breeding —confirmed by the presence of big young on the ledges in late July/ August—is likely to occur over the next few years as more of the birds reach breeding age. This movement to potential inland breeding sites has not been con- fined to Holyrood Park. In August 1978 one fully grown chick was reported from Torphin Quarry, with 4-5 sites occupied; by 1982, 24 1983 SHORT NOTES 229 birds were present at 16 sites on 20 May and one young was seen in August. Since 1979 two or three birds have been observed regularly at Blackford Quarry (7 km inland). Elsewhere in the Lothians there have been regular observations of birds sitting on ledges or prospecting potential sites at North Berwick Law (1.5 km inland), Traprain Law (8 km inland), and Garleton Quarry near Haddington (10 km inland), and breeding has been proved at the latter two locations. It is interesting to note that at most of these sites the occupied crags generally face west to north and are within sight of the sea. The occupation of inland breeding sites, mostly crags or quarry faces with ledges reasonably safe from disturbance or predators, no doubt reflects a continuing expansion of this species, with numbers at coastal and island sites still increasing. An interesting aspect of the Holyrood Park Fulmars is that they often appear on the ledges in January (or even December), a month or more before any are seen on the coast at Musselburgh, Leith or further up the Forth (G. L. Sandeman pers. comm.). This suggests a need for young birds to reinforce their claim to a potential breeding site at an early stage if they are to retain possession of it. The information in this note has come primarily from the records submitted to R. W. J. Smith when he was Midlothian and West Lothian recorder from 1968-80, and from the Holyrood Park Bird Report pre- pared since 1978 by Dr L. L. J. Vick. May I request that in future observers make every effort to count occupied sites during May-July as this gives a much clearer picture of the number of potential breeders. July/August is also an important period for checking on the presence of young. A. W. BROWN Reviews The Birds of the Outer Hebrides: a guide to their status and distribution by Peter Cunningham; Melven Press, Perth, 1983; 241 pages; many drawings; hardback; £5.95. With the Outer Hebrides so much in the news recently, this book could hardly have been published at a more opportune moment. It is however no rushed job produced in the advent of expected major envir- onmental changes envisaged under the E.E.C.’s Integrated Development Programme. Instead it represents the culmination of over 30 years of personal observation and research by the author, as he travelled through the islands in the course of his duties with the Customs and Excise, based in Stornoway. It is nearly 100 years since Harvie-Brown and Buckley published a “Vertebrate Fauna of the Outer Hebrides’, the last complete and exclus- ive account of the birds of these islands. Until his untimely death, the late Dr J. Campbell was gathering material to produce a new account, and the present author has been able to use these unpublished notes and records to help compile his own work. After a brief description of the islands (St Kilda is excluded) the bulk of the book deals with the status and distribution of the different species. Although basically a personal attempt to provide an up-to-date record of each species, it is a well researched stocktaking of the existing situa- tion. People unfamiliar with the islands may be surprised by the relative rarity of certain species vis a vis others, or in certain cases the scarcity of available information (especially quantitative data). Those more fam- 230 REVIEWS 12(7) iliar with the Hebrides, their extent and inaccessibility, will be impressed by what the author has achieved. With very few resident naturalists, much information gathered each year by visiting birdwatchers is taken away with them, never again to see the light of day—this book will perhaps act as an incentive for future visitors to submit their own obser- vations. Produced in hardback, and designed for the pocket, the text is comple- mented by excellent line drawings by Roger Lee. Furthermore it includes the Gaelic names of all the birds; a useful and interesting addition. A list of references covering the ornithology of the islands and a personal checklist complete the book. For anyone interested in birdwatching, and visiting the Outer Hebrides, this book is a must. CHRIS. J. SPRAY Sutherland Birds, a Guide to the Status and Ecology of Birds in Suther- land District, edited by Stewart Angus; Northern Times, Golspie; a Pos colour and 4 b and w plates, 13 drawings, map; hard- ack; £4.95. This book is the first to deal solely with the birds of Sutherland—a large and varied county, much of it wild and relatively inaccessible. The first five chapters, contributed by well-known local ornithologists, de- scribe the principal habitats and ornithological conservation in the county; the bird list (totalling 262 species and covering up to 1982) is based on a very thorough search of the literature plus some unpublished records and recent quantitative data; and a gazeteer of place names with 4-figure grid references is included to enable those unfamiliar with Sutherland to locate places mentioned in the text. The number and quality of the illustrations, especially the colour plates, is remarkable for a book at this price. Stewart Angus is to be congratulated on the amount of information he has managed to compress into the admirably concise accounts in his species list. These summarise distribution and status, mentioning habitat preferences and recent changes where appropriate. The few figures that are given will provide a useful basis against which observers may compare their own findings, and should help to stimulate future ornith- ological recording in Sutherland. This is a nicely produced book, well laid out and attractively illustrated. At only £4.95 it represents extremely good value for money—and the royalties from its sale are to be devoted to wildlife research in Sutherland. We could do with many more county guides of this type and quality. V. M. THOM The Arctic Skua by P. O’Donald; Cambridge University Press. Cambridge, bees 324 pages; 7 monochrome photographs; 18 diagrams and maps; 5. A book that looks like one of the Poyser series but costs twice as much would need to be good to compete. This book is not. It contains only a few black and white photographs to relieve a tedious and often inaccurate text. The first few chapters are clearly intended for the in- formed general reader; parts read like first year undergraduate statistics lecture notes, parts contain unscientific and often inaccurate statements (e.g. page 43, “well in excess of 3000 pairs of Bonxies now terrorize large parts of Foula’”—the present Bonxie population is well under 3000 pairs, and has increased at 7% per annum from 1900 to 1980, not at 14% as stated by O’Donald). The author is clearly unaware of much relevant literature. In the chapter on population size he cites numbers of Arctic Skuas in the Faeroes from an incomplete 1940s survey, without mentioning the detailed census published by Joensen in 1966 which 1983 REVIEWS 231 found three times as many pairs, or the many counts made in the 1970's. The excellent and detailed 148-page monograph by Maher is not even listed in the bibliography, though it contains much more information on Arctic Skua ecology than any other single work. I found dozens of factual and conceptual errors. For example, most British seabirds do migrate, in spite of O’Donald’s assertion to the con- trary. He also stated several times, and some of his models assume, that numbers of Arctic Skuas immigrating to any colony equal numbers emigrating. This is clearly absurd. Arctic Terns cannot be “increasing in numbers on Fair Isle, Hermaness and Noss” as they do not breed on Hermaness and recently went extinct on Noss. The wing length of all Catharacta skuas is given as 380-405 mm (source not acknowledged) yet female Bonxie wing length averages 413 mm according to BWP and l6nnbergi has even longer wings. The second half of the book is difficult to read as it is highly mathe- matical and contains many fully worked statistical analyses which the reader is unlikely to want to see. Serious students of population genetics, for whom this section is presumably intended, will also be disturbed by the author’s habit of cloaking errors by deriving statistics to five or six significant figures (implying great precision and accuracy) though these are often based on crude estimates of survival which themselves depend on guesses of immigration rates. R. W. FURNESS The Barn Owl by D. S. Bunn, A. B. Worburton, R. D. S. Wilson; Poyser, Calton, 1982; 264 pages; 1 colour & 31 b. & w. plates; £12.60. _ Poyser’s ornithological publications have set something of a standard in recent years. They have shown that it is perfectly feasible to adopt a rigorous scientific approach yet to write in a way that can be enjoyed and understood by all. “The Barn Owl”, although undoubtedly useful and interesting, falls short of this standard. The book seems superficially to contain all the appropriate topics but on detailed reading proves an uncomfortable blend of reasonable scientific reporting and careless and misleading writing. The authors have clearly experienced difficulty in distinguishing hypothesis from fact and make firm assertions that can neither be accepted nor rejected on the basis of existing knowledge. The unwary reader can easily be led astray. They have done well to hunt out a large proportion of the available literature but have unfortunately sometimes either ignored or failed to appreciate the full significance of it. The sections concerning population ecology (breeding, movements etc.) suffer from a shortage of reliable information and there is no discussion of the potential inadequacies of the data that are used. It becomes obvious that the book is premature and that we simply do not know enough about Barn Owls for a really first class and convincing book to be written about them. Books on owls sell well because people like owls and it is to be expected that this book will be judged a success. IAIN R. TAYLOR Wintering Waders on the Banc d’Arguin (Mauretania) by W. Altenburg et al; 1982; 284 pp; 9 pp photos, maps; softback: £7.50. This book describes an expedition to a remote part of the W. African coast which is of unique importance to waders and many other birds. Speaking with some envy, I can say that it is one of the best reports of an ornithological expedition yet produced. With its many maps, vig- nettes and photographs, this reasonably-priced book is strongly recom- mended to anyone interested in waders in Europe or Africa. M. W. PIENKOWSKI 232 REVIEWS 12(7) Also received A List of Clyde Vertebrates by J. A. Gibson; 2nd edition 1980; 79 pages. A species list of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes that have been reported in the Clyde area. A Regional Check-list of Clyde Birds by J. A. Gibson; 2nd edition 1981; 85 pages. Covers records up to 1981 giving status of each species in 15 subdivisions of the Clyde faunal area. Identical in format with the above are Regional Check-lists of Mam- mals, Reptiles and Amphibians, and of Freshwater Fishes. All are avail- able from W. McMurtrie, 21 Eastwood Ave., Giffnock, Glasgow G46 6LS. Birds of the Mediterranean and Alps by Lars Jonssen; Croom Helm, pence 1982; 160 pp; numerous colour plates & distribution maps; 20 x Birds that Came Back by John Gooders; Andre Deutsch, London, 1983; 182 pp; 8 pp of colour illus; many plain & line illus; 24 x 17; £12.95. Highland Year by L. McNally; Century, London, 2nd edn. 1983; 143 pp; 10 col & 50 b/w photos; 25 x 16; £8.95. The Woodcock by Herbert Kalchreuter (translated into English by Peter D. K. Hessel, Ottawa); Verlag Dieter Hoffman, 1983; 119 pages + bibliography; maps, tables & diags.; softback; c.£6.40. PAPERS OF SCOTTISH INTEREST Articles and reports on birds in Scotland, mainly on status and distribution, are listed here. Some bio- logical studies, e.g. behavioural, are excluded, as are references from the widely available journals British Birds, Bird Study, Ringing and Migra- tion, and Ibis. Most items listed are available for reference in the Water- ston Library. The librarian welcomes copies of work on any aspect of ornithology. Fife & Kinross Bird Report for 1981. (27 pp). I. G. Cumming & T. C. Smout (eds). Includes a short report “Herons in Fife and Tayside’”’. The Birds of Possil Marsh [Lanarkshire]). (29 pp). G. J. Brock 1983. A species list with collected records 1871-1982. Perthshire Peregrines in 1982. (2 pp). P. Stirling-Aird. Raasay Bird Report for summer 1982. (13 pp). A. Church & D. Lodge. Ayrshire Bird Report for 1982. (30 pp). R. H. Hogg (ed) 1983. £1.25 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Caithness Bird Report for 1982. (13 pp). Canna Report 81-82. (15 pp). R. L. Swann & A. D. K. Ramsay. Loch Lomond Bird Report for 1982. (16 pp). J. Mitchell (Comp.) 1983. Nature Conservancy Council. Includes ‘Nesting of Temminck’s Stint in Dunbarton- shire in 1979” and reminiscences of the late Prof. M. F. M. Meiklejohn’s weekly articles in the Glasgow Herald. Orkney Bird Report for 1982. C. Booth et al. 1983. £1.75 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Includes articles on “Orkney Fulmars’”, “Use of Orkney farmland in winter by wading birds”, “Rookery survey”, etc. The population of the Greenland Barnacle Goose. (8 pp). M. A. Ogilvie 1983. An unpublished report on an aerial survey in Scotland and Ireland in March-April 1983. The wintering population has fallen by 250 since 1978. Effect of wind on the foraging behaviour of Common and Sandwich Terns. I. R. Taylor 1983. Orn. Scand. 14: 90-96. This study was made on the estuary of the river Ythan, Aberdeenshire. Oil pollution, seabirds, and operational consequences, around the Northern Isles of Scotland. M. G. Richardson, M. Heubeck, D. Lea & P. Reynolds 1982. Environmental Conservation 9: 315-321. A study of the seabird deaths from oil pollution around Orkney and Shetland in 1979, and of the measures that have been taken to reduce them. W. G. HARPER 1983 LETTER 233 Letter Dear Editor,— Temporal abmigration - a new evolutionary concept Serious students of ornithology are aware of the concept of reverse migration, which takes place in the opposite direction from normal. Hitherto this has been regarded as a spatial phenomenon: I should like to draw attention to recent evidence that it may also be a temporal one. A good example is given in the recent report of the Fair Isle Bird Obser- vatory (1982: 59) of a Turtle Dove ringed on spring passage at Fair Isle on 15 May 1982, and recovered in Spain the previous winter. A more widespread occurrence of this phenomenon is brought to light in the latest issue of our journal (12: 204), where it is stated that corrections to the 1981 Scottish Bird Report will be found in the 1938 report. Clearly it is important to understand that birds, like the young lady of limerick fame, may fly much faster than light, starting one day, in a relative way, and returning the previous night. P. CRISTATUS We stand corrected !—and wonder how many other readers noted the error ? (1938 should have read 1982)—Ed. The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club ANNUAL CONFERENCE and ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The 36th annual conference and 47th annual general meeting of the club will be held in the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, East Lothian, during the weekend 4-6 November 1983. The conference programme and booking torm, and the agenda for the AGM, are enclosed with this number of the journal. Members are reminded that bookings for the conference can only be accepted on the booking form; the hotel management have been instructed not to accept any booking except through the club secretary. HONORARY MEMBERS Under the constitution of the Club, council is empowered to elect those who have rendered distinguished service to Scottish Ornithology as honorary members, At a meeting earlier this year council agreed to conter honorary membership on two members and is very pleased to announce that both have accepted the invitation. The two new honorary members are Mr Sandy Anderson and Mrs Ruby Smillie. ENDOWMENT FUND The SOC Endowment Fund was established for the advancement of ornithology, and in recent years has received generous donations and legacies which have enabled an increasing number of members to receive a grant towards a variety of projects in which they are involved. The Fund is administered by the council of the club which is empowered to make grants from accumulated income; in 1983 £2000 was awarded to 13 applicants. Applications for a grant must be made on a form available from the club secretary and submitted by 31 December. Applications received after that date will not be considered for the financial year to 30 June follow- 234 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(7) ing. Applications, with recommendations by the research committee to which they are submitted, are considered by council at its meeting in March. RAFFLE TICKETS Last year, for the first time, council agreed that each member should be sent a book of tickets for the club’s annual raffle, for which the draw takes place at the conference. A book is included with this journal. We do appreciate that some members do not like this method of receiving tickets, and to them we apologise, but last year the club’s funds benefited by over £225 more than the average received in the previous five years when tickets were sold at meetings or through the post. Tickets will be available at the September and October branch meetings, and members who wish to buy more than one book can either buy them there or send the extra cash to the club secretary who will return the necessary counterfoils. Do please send ticket stubs and payment to the club secretary as soon as possible—certainly no later than 29 October— or bring them to the conference. An acknowledgment for payment sent by post will only be made if an sae is enclosed. CLUB TIES, BADGES AND CAR STICKERS SOC ties, badges and car stickers, all with the club emblem—the Crested Tit—are available from the club secretary and some branch sec- retaries at the following prices : Ties in maroon, dark blue or green - £3.00 each (£3.15 by post). Badges 50p each (63p by post). Car stickers 15p eavh (28p by post). SCOTTISH BIRDS Copies of all back numbers of the journal from Volume 1 No 1 (autumn 1958), and also some complete unbound secondhand volumes, are avail- able. For details of prices write to the club secretary. WINTER EXCURSIONS AYR BRANCH All excursions meet at Wellington Square, Ayr, at the time stated. Saturday 22 October 1983 DIPPLE and TURNBERRY. Leader Don Smith. 1 p.m. Saturday 19 November CAERLAVEROCK. Leader Gordon Riddle. 9 am. Saturday 22 January 1984 AROUND THE LOCHS. Leader Angus Hogg. 10 a.m, Sunday 26 February LOCH RYAN. Leader Bruce Forrester. 9.30 am. Saturday 24 March MURRAY’S MONUMENT. Leader Roger Hissett. 9 am. DUNDEE BRANCH All excursions, except the first mentioned, leave Crichton Street, Dundee at 10 am by private car (bring lunch and tea). Sunday 23 October 1983 LOCH OF STRATHBEG RESERVE. Leader J. Dunbar, RSPB Warden. For information about this excursion please contact the branch secretary and enclose an sae if writing. Sunday 20 November TAY ESTUARY SURVEY. Leader B. Lynch. Sunday 11 December LINTRATHEN. Leader B. Pounder. Sunday 15 January 1984 KILCONQUHAR LOCH and LEVEN. Leader J. Grant. Sunday 12 February MEIKLEOUR. Leader D. Doig. Sunday 11 March MONTROSE BASIN SWT RESERVE. Leaders C. Eat- ough (SWT Ranger) and V. Ellmore. Sunday 15 April ENOCHDHU. Leader R. Corbet. 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 235 MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY During this year there have been a number of changes in the staff at Regent Terrace, and full details will be published in the annual report of council in the winter journal. However, we are particularly pleased to welcome Miss Pat Webster as our new Membership Secretary; any query about membership should be addressed to her. Notices BRISC Twelve-Species Survey 1983 The Biological Recording in Scotland Committee is a group of Scottish naturalists, including SUC members, which aims to promote all kinds of wildlife recording and to develop a network of biological records centres throughout Scotland. The 1983 species survey includes a range of animals and plants, including two birds, the Kestrel and the Barn Owl, the latter now evidently a rare bird over most of the country. Information can be obtained from most local museums or by sending a sae to BRISC c/o Scottish Wildlife Trust, 25 johnston Terrace, Edinburgh EHl 2NH. The 1983 BRISC Action Guide, which contains the distribution maps for species recorded in 1981 and 1982, is available (price 50p) from the above address. British Birds Members of the SOC are again being offered 25% off the normal subscription rate for this excellent monthly magazine. Payment should be made on the enclosed form, on which are shown full details of charges, and should be sent direct to Mrs E. Sharrock, Circulation Manager, British Birds, Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, Bedfordshire MK44 3NJ. Recent Reports These notes include unchecked reports and are not intended as a per- manent record, nor will they be indexed. Please send reports to Pete Ellis, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, via local recorders, at the end of March, June, September and December. The period April to June is covered here. The cold wet weather in April and May in many areas of the mainland contrasted with unusually dry conditions in the western and northern isles. Long periods of easterly winds raised many birders’ hopes, but few large falls materialised, Shetiand in particular having one of its poorest- ever springs for grounded migrants. But despite this some exceptional rarities did turn up. The most notable sightings in the period were Scotland’s first Dartford Warbler, in song at St Abbs on 18 May, and first Neca tiled Swift, seeen by a privileged few on South Ronaldsay on 11-12 June. White-billed Divers in spanking summer plumage were seen off Skye and Shetland in April-May; a Sooty Shearwter was off Troon on 12 June when it should have been in the southern hemisphere; and a Night Heron on Unst:in April had presumably overshot southern Europe. There were Black Storks at Biggar and North Berwick in June, White Storks at East Linton, Evanton and Orkney in April-May, and a Spoonbill at Caerlaverock for nearly 2 weeks in April. Unusual wildfowl records included a Bean Goose at Tyninghame in April, a pair of American Wigeon on Unst in June, two male Garganey at Loch of Strathbeg and another at Prestwick in May, an immature male Surf Scoter off South 236 NOTICES 12(7) Uist and an adult male off Tiree in April, and a female Ruddy Duck at Coldstream also in April. A Honey Buzzard on Fair Isle 22-25 April was exceptionally early, there was another on the Isle of May in June, and immature Sea Eagles from the re-introduction project on Rhum, com- plete with coloured wing tags, reached Orkney and Shetland in April. Several Marsh Harriers were reported in May-June, wintering Rough- legged Buzzards stayed on in Glen Dye, Orkney and Shetland, and one visited Fair Isle in April, and a male Red-footed Falcon graced the Orkney scene in mid-June. Quail wet a number of birders’ lips on the Isle of May, Shetland, Fair Isle, Loch of Strathbeg, the Black Isle and Crosshill in June, and Cranes appeared in Orkney, Shetland and Fair Isle in April-May. Waders made a good showing, the highlights being an Avocet at Fife Ness on 8 May, ‘Temminck’s Stints at Paisley and North Uist in May, and an exceptional run of Broad-billed Sandpipers, the first at Stranraer on 17-19 May, fol- lowed in June by a pair at Aberlady, another at Tyninghame and yet another in North Uist. Also in North Uist, in May, was a Long-billed Dowitcher—in summer plumage so the usual identification problem did did not arise. The regular spring skua passage off North Uist reached phenomenal proportions when in one week in May 898 Pomarine Skuas and 417 Long-tailed Skuas passed Balranald. Among the vagrant gulls reported were Mediterranean Gulls at Aberlady and Aberdeen in May, an adult Laughing Gull on Fetlar in June, Wick’s second Ross’s Gull this year in April, and an immature Ivory Gull—which was under police surveillance at Muckle Flugga on 6 June. An immaculate White-winged Black Tern graced Balgavies Loch on 22 May and one fortunate Shetland birder found his second live Brunnich’s Guillemot on 5 April. A spate of Hoopoes in April and May produced records from Girvan, Fetteresso, Islay, Hoy, Fair Isle and Unst. Notable small passerines in May-June included a female or immature male Red-flanked Bluetail, which tantalised observers on the Isle of May on 24 May, and exceptional numbers of Marsh Warblers, with nine on Fair Isle, two in Orkney and one on the Isle of May. A male Subalpine Warbler sang for many birders at Fife Ness and others occurred on Orkney and Fair Isle. A sizeable influx of Lesser Whitethroats produced seven on the Aberdeenshire coast on 6 May and thirty at Fife Ness on 8th; eight singing males in Ayrshire included the first breeding records for the county this century. There were Firecrests at St Abbs and the Isle of May and Red-breasted Flycatchers at Bilsdean, the Isle of May and Unst. Golden Orioles turned up at the Mull of Kintyre and Galloway in May and on Orkney, Fair Isle and Shetland in June, and there were Rose-coloured Starlings on the Isle of May and Unst in June. The only Ortolan Bunting of the spring—an increasingly scarce species—was in Shetland on 14 May. PETE ELLIS Stop Press The Management Committee has appointed John Davies to succeed Alastair Peirse-Duncombe as Secretary of the club; he is ex- pected to take up his post in January. John is a graduate of the Uni- versity College of Wales and is currently working as a geophysicist with the Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies. He has been a club member since 1969 and has spent two seasons on Fair Isle as seabird assistant, so he is no stranger to the Scottish scene; his wife Fiona comes from Fife. They and their two small daughters, Mairi and Catriona, plan to live in the flat at 21 Regent Terrace. We welcome John to his new appointment and look forward to meeting him and his family at the Conference in November. WILDFOWL COUNTS IN SCOTLAND For more than 20 years the task of organising the winter Wildfowl Counts in Scotland was undertaken by a succession of dedicated SOC members; first by Miss Rintoul and Miss Baxter, then by Miss Betty Garden and finally by Miss Valerie Thom. When Miss Thom resigned in 1971, no overall Scottish Organiser could be found to continue the work centrally, and so a number of Regional Organisers were appointed who deal direct with the Wildfowl Trust in Slimbridge. The Club agreed to be responsible for appointing Regional Organisers when necessary in future, and a copy of the counts for all parts of Scotland is maintained in the Club’s Reference Library in Edinburgh. A list of the Regional Organisers is given below, and anyone who is interested in helping with the counts is asked to write to their nearest Organiser. If there is none please contact Slimbridge. Shetland D. P. P. Eva, 6 Westerioch Brae, Lerwick. Orkney P. Reynolds, Berrybank, Evie, Orkney. Wester Ross and Skye A. Currie, Glaiseilean, Broadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AQ. Outer Hebrides N. Buxton, 4 Sand Street, Coulregrein, Stornoway, Isle of of Lewis, Western Isles. Caithness S. Laybourne, Old Schoolhouse, Harpsdale, Halkirk, Caithness, KW12 6UN. Inverness-shire, Easter Ross, Sutherland (East) C. G. Headlam, Dallachie, Fearn, Ross-shire IV20 1TN. Banffshire, Morayshire, Nairnshire J. Edelsten, 12 Durn Avenue, Portsoy, Banffshire. Aberdeenshire, Kincardineshire A. Duncan, 12 Cairncry Avenue, Aber- deen, AB2 5DS. Angus B. Pounder, 64 Forfar Road, Dundee, Angus. Perthshire (East) E. D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perth, PH2 6RZ. Argyllshire and Inner Hebrides (South) S. Newton, 11 Jameson Place, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 8NZ. Fife, Kinross-shire Mrs J. A. R. Grant, Brackmont, Crail, Fife. Central Region D. Thorogood, 4 Archers Avenue, Stirling, FK7 7RJ. Bute J. B. Simpson, Estate Office, Rothesay, Bute. Dunbartonshire, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire R. A. Jeffrey, 1a High Calside, Paisley, Renfrewshire, PA2 6BY. Lothians Miss J. Wilcox, 18 Howdenhall Gardens, Edinburgh, EH16 6UN. pevrshire A. G. Stewart, 31 St Andrews Avenue, Prestwick, Ayrshire, KA9 Borders A. Bramhall, 28 Blakehope Court, Tweedbank, Galashiels, Sel- kirkshire, TD1 3RB. Dumfriesshire, Kirkcudbright, Wigtownshire P. Shimmings, 1 Jeanville, Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire, DG11 1PA. THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB MPHE Scottish Ornithologists’ Club was formed in 1936 and membership is open to all intérested in Scottish Ornithology. Meetings are held during the winter months in Aberdeen, Ayr, the Borders, Dumfries, Dun- dee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, New Galloway, St Andrews, Stirling, Thurso and the Wigtown District at which lectures by prominent ornith- ologists are given and films exhibited. Expeditions are organised in the summer to places of ornithological interest. The aims of the Club are to (a) encourage the study of Scottish ornith- ology and to promote an interest in wild birds; (b) co-ordinate the activi- ties of Scottish ornithologists; (c) encourage ornithological work in Scotland; (d) encourage conservation of Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) hold meetings for discussion and to arrange ornithological field meetings, and (f) appoint local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology, including Scottish Birds, the club journal. There are no entry fees for Membership. The Annual subscription is £7.50, or £3 in the case of Members under twenty one years of age or Students under 25 who satisfy the Council of their status as such at the times at which their subscriptions fall due. The Life subscription is £150. Family Membership is available to married couples and their nominated children under 18 at an Annual subscription of £11, or a Life subscrip- tion of £225. Scottish Birds is issued free to Members but Family Mem- bers will receive one copy between them. Subscriptions are payable on lst October annually. Scottish Birds, which is published quarterly, includes papers, articles and short notes on all aspects of ornithology in Scotland. The club also publishes the annual Scottish Bird Report. Application for Membership form, copy of the Club Constitution, and other literature are obtainable from the Club Secretary, Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe, Scottish Centre for Ornithology and Bird Protection, 21 Regent Terace, Edinburgh, EH7 5 BT (tel. 031-556 6042). APPLICATION FORM NAME(S) ss ch aneieriolsioad seagartaesatettna athe Monee eae Address eee ee ee ee i i ie iy Ce cs Date of birth if under 21 or student under 25 (or nominated child under 18 on family membership) _.................00.. Type of membership: scc.scnadsacvessestogcvecscvssoeess I enclose cheque/postal order/cash for £.................. SIQMACUPE ssc lsdu dene deioskeedeectneteesuoadenmeeenenaeye PropOSed, DY sasicsescects secesssde cee danaveasgetsovevecseseess Seconded DY oes sce 2issets ease seeoteccndeastielgenecaweges cues (If you do not know any members who can propose or second you please leave blank) Please detach and send with your subscription to The Club Secretary, Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT. 1. Those entitled to draw the State old age pension may pay a reduced subscription of £4.50 (single) or £6.50 (family) on application to the Club Secretary. 2. Banker’s Order and Deed of Covenant forms can be supplied by the Club Secretary. SB 12:7 ecpp- EVENTS FILM SHOWS The Latest Programme of Films (‘PINKFOOT’, ‘THE HERITAGE OF THE FOREST?’ and ‘RSPB REVIEW’) can be seen at the following venues in the coming months. Make a note of your Local Show now! Wednesday, 14th September—HELENSBURGH Victoria Halls. Tuesday 11th October—MELROSE Waverley Castle Hotel. Friday, 4th November—EASTWOOD Eastwood Theatre. Wednesday, 9th November—MILNGAVIE Town Hall. Thursday, 10th November—ST ANDREWS Buchanan Theatre. Friday, 11th November—KIRKCALDY Philp Hall. Thursday, 17th November—DUNFERMLINE, Carnegie Hall. Tuesday, 22nd November—DUMFRIES High School. ’ Thursday, 24th November—ABOYNE Deeside Community Centre. Friday, 25th November—ABERDEEN Cowdray Hall. Tuesday, 29th November—DUNDEE Bonar Hall. Wednesday, 30th November—CRAMOND Dunfermline P.E. College. Friday, 2nd December—ARDROSSAN Civic Centre. All shows commence at 7.30 p.m. ONE DAY CONFERENCE Saturday, 8th October - Jordanhill College, Glasgow Places still available for this ever popular event, supported this year by Christian Salvesen Ltd. Speakers include Roy Dennis (‘The Golden Eagle’), Robert Gillmor (‘Bird Art’) and Ray Hawley (‘The Wildlife of Ken/ Dee’) Also BIRD QUIZ, RAFFLE, ART EXHIBITION, DISPLAYS, TOMBOLA, RSPB ‘SHOP’ and GROUP STALLS Tickets only £8.00 (includes Coffee/Lunch/Afternoon Tea) from RSPB Scottish Office, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BN. PEREGRINE Holidays 1983 - 84 Special Interest Tours Directors RAYMOND HODGKINS MA(OXON) PATRICIA HODGKINS MTAI NEVILLE WYKES FAAI Fully Bonded WITH GUEST LECTURERS AND A TOUR MANAGER: BY AIR and Inclusive * Provisional BIRDS OF MACEDONIA Aug 27-Sep 10 Birds £550 John Parrott leads this tour which has already reached its “going number’, so departure is guaranteed. Visits Lakes Prespa and Ohrid in Greece and Jugoslavia. NORTHERN INDIA & NEPAL Oct 12-29 _ Birds, Wildlife Flowers, History £1550 This tour has two super leaders, James Hancock and Raj Singh. Visits Delhi (Sultanpur Jheels), Agra (Taj Mahal), Sikandra, Fatehpur Sikri, Bharatpur Reserve, Jaipur (Jantra Mantra, Amber), Kathmandu, Gaida Wildlife Camp. AUTUMN IN CRETE Nov 3-17 _ Sites, Birds £435 Led by Mr E. D. H. Johnson of Jersey (birds), and Mr William Taylor (sites). Based at the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel. THE GAMBIA Nov 30-Dec 7 _ Birds, River Cruise £395* John Parrot leads - an expert on W. African birds. CHRISTMAS IN CRETE Dec 20-Jan3__ Birds, Flowers, Sites £460 We plan to revive former glories at the Minos Beach Hotel with three leaders and a full programme of excursions and evening lectures. Weather can be marvellous. eA SPRING IN ARGOLIS Mar 22-31 Sites, Flowers £330* At the Minoa Hotel, Tolon. Visits Mycenae, Tiryns, Argos, Lerna, Sparta, Mistra, Epidaurus. A perennial favourite. SPRING IN CRETE Mar 15-29 _ Birds, Flowers £450* Same itinerary as 1983. At Minos Beach Hotel, Agios Nikolaos. Many excursions. SPRING IN CORFU Apr 23-May 3_ Birds, Flowers We return to Ipsos at the Northern end of this delightful island. ROMANS IN AFRICA’ Apr 8-22 _ Birds, Ruins, Flowers £560* Follows our Tunisian tour of 1982 with a powerful emphasis on the fabulous Roman remains. Led by David Miles BA. PELOPONNESE & CRETE Apr 15-29 _ Birds, Flowers £650* NORTHERN GREECE June 8-23 Mountains, Flowers, Butterflies £650* AUTUMN IN CRETE’ Nov 3-17 | Sites, Birds £450* AUTUMN IN ARGOLIS Oct 21-31 Sites, Birds £350* INDIA - RANN OF KUTCH Nov 1-20 Birds, Wildlife, History £1700* PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN & GOWN TRAVEL 40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JP Tel. Oxford (0865) 511341 South Uist Isle of Jura @ * Spend an enjoyable holida ; ance fie eae abe pioaes pee! Self catering, comfortable, and machair...an excellent modern, semi-detached area for birdwatching all the cottage beside sea. year round. Well equipped. B & B, packed lunch and Sleeps two only. evening meal; all home cook- ing. Parties catered for. * Open all_year round, Send s.a.e. for details to Mrs Paton Craighouse Write for details or phone Mrs C. MacAskill Drimisdale House Lochboisdale, SOUTH UIST js~F OF JURA - ARGYLL at 08705 231 Tel. 049682 242 THE BIRD BOOKSHOP Scottish Ornithologists’ Club Dept. 7, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT. Phone 031-556-6042 Worldwide selection of books on ornithology and related topics. Our stock of over 600 titles covers all levels from amateur to professional and includes other natural history books. Orders of £10 or more are sent post free to mem- bers provided membership is stated. For a free 30 page booklist write to the above address or phone (Mon-Fri 9-1, 2-5) The Bird Bookshop makes a substantial contribu- tion to club income, so buy all your bird books from us and help keep subscriptions down. CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. BOOKS BIRDS and ISLANDS St Kilda, Orkney, Shetland, Hebrides and Natural History especially Ornithology Books and libraries bought. Collection can usually be arranged during my visits to Scotland and the High- lands and Islands. DAVID WILSON 95 Worlds End Lane Weston Turville Aylesbury, Bucks. (Stoke Mandeville 2247) ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure. Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Telephone (0688) 2464 New Branch in Edinburgh Expert Service Binoculars Telescopes EO tO Repairs See main advertisement for details. Se BirdMigration Chris Mead The British Trust for Ornithology £9-95 Over 200 maps and diagrams Illustrated throughout in colour and black and white | History of the | discovery of migration ~~ Detailed survey of the . patterns of migration Analysis of modern research methods Observing bird migration for yourself + xh + + + » The annual arrival and disappearance of our migratory birds has prompted intense speculation through the ages. The ancient Greeks proposed several theories for this seasonal change, including the transformation from one species into another. In western Europe, for many centuries, it was widely believed that swallows and martins hibernated in the muddy bottoms of ponds and ditches. In recent years there has been a tremendous amount of research throughout the world into bird migration. In this fascinating book Chris Mead introduces the amateur birdwatcher to the absorbing world of bird migration. The scope of the book encompasses the history of the discovery of migration from classical times to the present day. There is a survey of the various patterns of migration from the spectacular long-distance flights to short-distance and occasional movements. There are also chapters Gn the ways in which birds have adapted physically and ecologically to their migrations; their navigations systems; the evolution of the migrations themselves and the advantages that migration affords. There is an explanation of current research methods both in the field and laboratory and a chapter on the ways in which the amateur birdwatcher can participate. Country Life Just Published BIRDS OF | THE | | OUTER HEBRIDES PETER CUNNINGHAM A Guide to their Status and Distribution A personal attempt to provide an up to date but necessarily brief record of the 286 species which have occurred, or are said to have occurred, in the Outer Hebrides. St Kilda has been dealt with in “Birds of St Kilda” by M. P. Harris and S. Murray (ITE. 1979) and is therefore not included. The author’s own observations, spanning more than 30 years’ residence in Lewis and visits to all the islands and their larger outliers, are the basis of the account. £5.95 From your local bookseller, from the Bird Bookshop. Published by MELVEN PRESS, c/o James Thin, 53-59 South Bridge, Edinburgh. Walter Thomson, Printer, Selkirk SEZ} 0 ISSN 0036-9144 SCOTTISH. THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 12 No. 8 Winter 1983 ——————— Publication 25th November 1983 Enjoying Ornithology Edited by RONALD HICKLING This year, 1983, the British Trust for Ornithology celebrates its first 50 years and this volume records much of the history of birdwatching and ornithology since the early 1930s. The book is not a history of the BTO, but many of the Trust’s achievements helped fashion the development and direction of ornithology over the decades, and major aspects of the Trust’s work rightly have detailed treatment. The book ranges widely, it looks at the changing bird as well as the changing birdwatcher and records the work of related conservation bodies, it considers the future and the past and includes an extensive section of useful facts and figures, whilst never losing sight of the central theme which is the book’s title. 296 pages, 72 line illustrations, £13.00 net T& AD POYSER Tell me Mr. Frank... Don’t know which model to choose? Join the thou- sands of people who consult us every year about binoculars and telescopes. Whatever your own individual needs our expert advice will ensure that you make the correct choice and buy at the right price. lo. Kigus @ 0728 3506 won vn @ OM B88 Of ® 0603 21704 wow sai Qu ies TACSE HUMLES @ 03-229 3363.non su OTHER MAKES ZEISS ; Binoculars to match the high reputation of their cameras h fine inst tof Mee Getrmany: 8x30 wide angle 139.00 these fine instruments offer Quite simply, th 10x35 wide angle 159.00 outstanding value. All are ansii A are pies 9x30 roof prism 169.00 supplied with case and carry ” Bi10 year guarantee. crystal clear vision. Guaran teed for life. CHARLES FRANK BINOCULARS ‘Made to our own specifica- tion, and bearing our name, i] ! TELESCOPES Charles Frank 604CR 14-45x50 armoured, case 73.45 | Charles Frank 900R 20-60x60 armoured, case 99.95 } _ STANDARD RANGE 8x20B miniature, 60z Bushnell Spacemaster 8x30ZCF 23.25 155.00 UP TO 45% OFF M.R.P. Zoom 20-45x60. Very sharp. } 8x4OZCF 28.90 10x25B miniature, 6.70z Wide angle binoculars with | Asupertelescope 194.00 7x5OZCF 29.95 169.50 a lifetime guarantee. Great | Bushnell Spacemaster 10x50ZCF 30.90 8x30B Dialyt 309.50 value 22x60 wide angle 162.00 GREEN LABEL 8x30BGA/CF Dialyt 8x30 Jenoptem 37.95 | Spacemastercase 16.50 } Extra. wide angle. Multi- armoured / 311.00 7x50 Jenoptem 62.50 | Bausch & Lomb Discoverer coated lenses. Close focus- 7x42BGAT* Dialyt 10x50 Jenoptem 59.95 15-60x60 198.00 | ing armoured 369.50 8x30 Deltrintem 53.50 | Discoverer case 14.50 8x40BWCF 64.00 8x56BGAT* Dialyt 10x50 Dekarem 84.95 Nickel Supra 15-60x60, 10x40BWCF 69.95 armoured 439.50 8x30 Deltrintmo monocular | case 159. 10x50BWCF 74.50 10x40BT* Diaiyt 351.50 34.95 | Televari 25-60x60, case 10x40BGAT* Dialyt 8x21 Turmon mini 159.95 ROOF PRISM armoured 357.00 monocular 38.45 Charles eps 30x75 r x21 mini NEW MODEL ° armoured,case 149.95 : Be eag.os Habicht Bushnell Optolyth 30x75 armoured, leather case 208.00 Bx0 wide angle oe Precision made in the Aus- 7x26 Custom Compact, Habicht 30x75NZ x : : trian Tyrol. Highly recom- 1102 89 10x40 wide angle 73.20 ded i Superbly made. The best of 8x56 armoured 92°50. |), enee “@! its kind. Armoured with end toe wide angle 209.00 6o - caps & sling 335.00 ‘K’ SERIES 7x4 209.00 [neLt08] HELIOS(Russian) Steiner 24x80. Very plas Wide angle. Fully coated 10x40 Diana’ wide angle Armoured, case 199.9 Difficult to fault at the price optics 239.00 8x30ZCF 21.95 Helios 20x50, case. ets 8x40 68.80 7x50ZCF 29.95 | allylow Russian price 24.50 10x40 68.80 AMLPIN 12x40ZCF 32.95 Many other telescopes al- 8x30 monocular (no cone) ways in stock — just ask. OBSERVATION OPTOLYTH 1.95 | A good telescope deserves § Big binoculars for use on a | Light as a feather — well al- OTHER aGNGEULARG a good tripod. This one is tripod most. West German made Tohyoh 8x30 16.95 | Super 11x80BCF - super bright — armoured binoculars Tohyoh 7x50 23.00 | Slik Master D2 Full height. 145.00 8x40 - 1602 - 113.00 Tohyoh 10x50 23.50 | One action pan/tilt. Weighs 20x70BCF - high power — 10x40 wide angle —- 160z — Lumex 8x20 roof prism only 2.5kg. 52.50 | i 125.00 115.00 49.95 Table top tripods, binocular/ Tripod clamp 3.95 10x50 - 2202 - 137.00 Lumex 8x24 ‘Miniscope’ tripod adaptors, car window CHARLES FRANK 8x30 32. mount always available DE LUXE HE All binoculars/monoculars Charles Frank Service Dept Probably the best quality © supplied complete’ with Binocular cleaning & collimation binocular available at this 7.5x42 Osprey armoured case unless otherwise price. Made in East Germany. (no case) 96.50 stated. All the Charles Frank Instruments Leather case. Weight 180z. 8.5x44Audubon HR 126.00 Binocular & telescope brief- aes apove are avallableitrom Ideal instrument for the | Aji other Swift models avail- ing pack available — just Saville Photo Hi-Fi, 7 Goodramgate, younger user 24.95 | able. send 35p stamps. York. Tel (0904) 25755 All prices include VAT. Post- age & packing £2. Return unsuitable goods, in unused condition, within 14 days for THE OPTICAL EXPER TS 1/9/83 but liable to alters CHARLES FRANK LTD. PO Box 5, Ronald Lane, Saxmundham, __ ton. Visa & Access welcome Suffolk 1P17 2NL Tel: 0728 3506 ~ just quote your number BRANCHES EDINBURGH NORWICH at Edinburgh Cameras at Norwich Camera Centre 57 Lothian Rd. 20 White Lion St. Tel: 031-229 3363 Tel: 0603 21704 GLEN GARRY Inverness-shire Comfortable fully furnished 3-bedroomed house situated in a picturesque glen. Ideal area for birdwatchers and nature lovers. From £60 per week. Further details from: Mrs M. A. CAMERON South Lodge, Glenfintaig by Spean Bridge Inverness-shire, PH34 4DX Phone 039-781-349 RARER AAA_Qw_o ww eAr2WrAAAALAA_D CENTRALLY HEATED FULLY MODERNISED SELF CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES to let in GALLOWAY Caldow Lodge, Corsock, Castle-Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, DG7 3EB. Tel. Corsock 286. Proprietors, Norman and Anthea Gray Amidst Moor, Marsh, Forest and Lochs, glorious country- side. Birdwatchers’ paradise. Off Season Lets. Please send for brochure, stamp appreciated. ISLE OF MULL STAFFA COTTAGES GUEST HOUSE TOBERMORY Get away from it all... beautiful scenery, good bird- ing and comfortable accom- modation at Staffa Cottages. Quiet situation looking across the Sound of Mull to Morvern. SAE for colour brochure. Proprietors : Richard & Elizabeth Coomber Telephone (0688) 2464 South Uist @ Spend an enjoyable holiday among the birds of moorland and machair...an excellent area for birdwatching all the year round. B & B, packed lunch and evening meal; all home cook- ing. Parties catered for. Open all year round. Write for details or phone Mrs C. MacAskhkill Drimisdale House Lochboisdale, SOUTH UIST at 08705 231 ——- PEREGRINE Holidays -3,~ 1983 - 84 Special Interest Tours Directors RAYMOND HODGKINS MA(OXON) PATRICIA HODGKINS MTAI NEVILLE WYKES FAAI Fully Bonded WITH GUEST LECTURERS AND A TOUR MANAGER: BY AIR and Inclusive *Provisional AUTUMN IN CRETE Nov 3-17 Sites, Birds £435 Led by Mr E. D. H. Johnson of Jersey (birds), and Mr William Taylor (sites). Based at the de luxe Minos Beach Hotel. THE GAMBIA Nov 30-Dec 7 _ Birds, River Cruise £440 John Parrot leads - an expert on W. African birds. CHRISTMAS IN CRETE Dec 20-Jan 3__ Birds, Flowers, Sites £460 We plan to revive former glories at the Minos Beach Hotel with three leaders and a fuli programme of excursions and evening lectures. Weather can be marvellous. 1984 SPRING IN ARGOLiS Mar 22-31 Sites, Flowers £355* At the Minoa Hotel, Tolon. Visits Mycenae, Tiryns, Argos, Lerna, Sparta, Mistra, Epidaurus. A perennial favourite. SPRING IN CRETE Mar 15-29 Birds, Flowers £445 Same itinerary as 1983. At Minos Beach Hotel, Agios Nikolaos. Many excursions. SPRING IN CORFU Apr 23-May 3 _ Birds, Flowers £435* We return to Ipsos at the Northern end of this delightful island. ROMANS IN AFRICA Apr 8-22 _ Birds, Ruins, Flowers £610 Follows our Tunisian tour of 1982 with a powerful emphasis on the fabulous Roman remains. Led by David Miles BA. PELOPONNESE & CRETE Apr 15-29 _ Birds, Flowers £650* NORTHERN GREECE — June 8-23 Mountains, Flowers, Butterflies £650* AUTUMN IN CRETE Nov 3-17 _ Sites, Birds £450* AUTUMN IN ARGOLIS' Oct 21-31 Sites, Birds £395* INDIA - RANN OF KUTCH’ Nov 1-20_ Birds, Wildlife, History £1700* Outline itinerary - Delhi-Sultanpur Jheels - Palace on Wheels - Agra- Jairpur (Taj Mahal, Bharatpur en route) - Anmedabad-Nalsarovar Sanc- tuary-Zainabad (2 days on Game Runs for Wild Asses and Desert Birds) - Velavadhar National Park (visit Ancient Sea Port Indus Val- ley) - Palitana-Sasangir Sanctuary-Wankaner - Bombay - London. PEREGRINE HOLIDAYS at TOWN & GOWN TRAVEL 40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JP Tel. Oxford (0865) 511341 Write NOW for one (or several!) Publication: 10th October 1983 The ‘British Birds’ Mystery Photographs Book 42 birds to identify, and one more to detect from clues. . . Identify the birds least £1,000 (and perhaps over £4,000) Obtainable only from the SOC Bird Bookshop, or direct from the publisher: (BB Mystery Book, Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, Bedford MK44 3NJ: post free to UK & Eire, add 50p for overseas; make cheques payable to British Birds Ltd., please) SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BT (tel, 031-556 6042) CONTENTS OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 8, WINTER 1983 Page Editorial tas a me ous one 237 Photographic Compétition Reslilts es - 238 The Status of the Chough in Scotland (J. M. aes wa 238 The phenomenal migrant fall of October 1982 (P. Ellis) 246 Birdwatching in the Moorfoots (R. W. J. Smith) Le 252 Short Notes The Crested Tit on Deeside (A. Knox) a a 255 A trio of i aa (G. E. ais J. D. suet & W.R. P. Bourne) : 258 Franklin’s Sai in Ayrshire (D. L. Glussiony 8 258 Golden Eagle alarm calls (D. Jenkins) ee me 259 Song-flighting Mistle Thrush (D. Jenkins)... ae 259 Redwings in a Highland glen (R. L. Swann) — 260 Reviews and Current Literature... me shh — 262 Notices ae ae aS = ae te oe 267 Winter Atlas oo ee i a es ne 268 Letter tee aie oh oat 268 The Scottish Grnithelosiets’ Club Report of Council & Accounts de = se 269 Officials of the Club for Session 47... o Sal 276 Club Notices a Sis Biv Sak Ms ae 277 Recent Reports (Pete Ellis) ... oe a oe nad 278 Stop Press se wie ae ne ee a 280 Editor V. M. Thom Business Editor M. R. Doran 1984 BIRDWATCHING HOLIDAYS for beginner and expert alike Ibis Tours is able to cater for all types of birdwatchers. An experienced ornithologist and travel manager on every tour enables us to give the type of friendly service and individual attention which our clients have come to expect and enjoy. In addition we are fortunate in being able to provide all the advantages and security of a tour company owned by a retail travel agent, Clifton Travel Ltd. This means that not only can we offer our holidays at extremely compet- itive prices, but we also have the flexibility to arrange individual extensions or more personal travel arrange- ments for any Ibis client. If you would like to spend a relaxing few days at very little Cost sampling Ibis hospitality come and join us on one of our introductory British weekends. For further details of Ibis birdwatching holidays in Britain and throughout the world contact: Ibis Tours, Clifton Travel Ltd., 4b Waterloo Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4BT Telephone No. (0272) 736035 (4 lines) Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9.00 am-6.00 pm - Saturday 9.00 am-5.00 pm SCOTTISH BIRDS THE JOURNAL OF THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Volume 12 No. 8 Winter 1983 Edited by V. M. Thom, assisted by R. W. Furness and I. R. Taylor Editorial Happy retirement, Alastair and Daphne ! There have been many changes at 21 Regent Terrace since Alastair Peirse-Duncombe became Secretary/Treasurer in March 1969. The staff has grown from three to six, the club has gradually taken over all the basement rooms, and book- shop sales have expanded from a mere £4,300 in 1968-69 to over £125,000 in 1982-3. Alastair has ably directed—and cheerfully undertaken much of—the ever-increasing day to day workload at number 21, and has regularly toured the Branches. But it has surely been at Annual Conferences that members have been most aware of and appreciative of the truly military efficiency with which he organised every task. We suspect there can be few organisations comparable to the SOC with as high a reputation for the smooth-running of their conferences. Sadly, illness kept Alastair in the background at the 1983 conference, the last before his retiral at the end of the year. We are glad to report, however, that he is making a good recovery and was, in fact, well enough to attend the AGM and receive his retirement presentations—a silver tray suit- ably inscribed, and a cheque. On that occasion the President, Ivan Draper, paid tribute not only to “the Major’, for all he has done for the club, but also to Daphne, whose help and hospitality have always been so willingly given. On behalf of all SOC members we wish Alastair and Daphne a long and happy retirement in their “rural roost” in the Borders. Another retirement Our attention was recently drawn to the faet that George Dick of Dunfermline had just given up wildfowl counting, reluctantly, at the age of 89! A club member until 4 years ago, George must surely be among the long-service record-holders for duck-counting. Maybe the regular monthly outing increases longevity ? 238 PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION 12(8) PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION RESULTS We are pleased to be able to report that the response to the competition was much better this year. The “top ten”, all transparencies, were shown during the Friday evening slide presentation at the Conference, with Don Smith commenting on their respective merits. It is hoped that the winning photos: (1) Oystercatchers at the nest by P. J. Newman, Kilmacolm, (2) Herons at the nest by A. D. Johnson, Hayling Island, and (3) Fulmar in flight by Fiona Burton, Edinburgh— and also several of the other entries—will appear on these pages in due course. The status of the Chough in Scotland J. M. WARNES To many birdwatchers the Chough must be among the least familiar of Scotland’s regular breeding species. Both the current size and distribution of the small remaining population and possible reasons for its progressive decline are discussed here. In 1982, a Chough survey was organised by the RSPB, BTO and IWC. The main aim was to assess the present distribution and numbers of Choughs in Ireland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Scotland and Brittany (Bullock et al 1983). This paper sum- marises the history of the Chough in Scotland and discusses the results of the 1982 Scottish survey. Population history in Scotland Most early records have been collated in a thorough account by Baxter and Rintoul (1953). It appears that Choughs were widely distributed on coasts and in both lowland and highland Scotland at the beginning of the 19th Century. Inland they had all died out by the 1830’s but on the coasts the decline was later. In the 16th Century, Choughs bred on the Berwickshire coast but by 1867 only a single pair remained, disappearing soon after this (Buchanan 1882). Thereafter, Choughs were seen commonly only on the western coasts and islands. On the west coast too Choughs declined, although they were once common on most of the Inner Hebrides, some of the 1983 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 239 Outer Hebrides and on the nearby mainland. They had dis- appeared from many small islands by 1871 but bred on Eigg in 1886. Only one pair remained on Iona by 1890 but they could be found on Skye until 1918. The last reliable record from the Outer Hebrides was in 1902 on South Uist. The ‘pro- bable’ breeding record from the Outer Hebrides (Sharrock 1976) has not been substantiated (Bullock pers. comm.). In south-west Scotland, Choughs bred well into the present cen- tury. In Ayrshire there are records between 1922 and 1929, and in Wigtownshire in the late 1930’s. In recent years, how- ever, the Chough has been mainly confined to Argyllshire. Islay has probably always been the major stronghold of the Chough in Scotland. From the descriptions by Gray (1871) and others, it appears that the Chough did not decline on Islay to the same extent as elsewhere, if at all. The only suggestion of a decline comes from the islanders who told Harvie-Brown and Buckley (1892) that Choughs were not so common as they used to be, although ‘still found all round the coasts’. Choughs still nest on Colonsay, but their past history there is unknown. Gray (1871) suggested that Islay was first colon- ised from Colonsay where Choughs were ‘very numerous’ but in 1976 only 2 pairs were present and in 1980 the Brathay Exploration Group saw just one pair. There are several records of Choughs breeding on the west coast of Kintyre in the mid 19th Century and they were ‘very numerous’ on Gigha and Cara in 1793 (Harvie-Brown and Buckley 1892). Several were shot on Davaar Island, where they bred until the 1890’s (Col- ville 1980), and they nested on the Mull of Kintyre until about 1920. Numbers on Kintyre have been slowly increasing again since the 1950’s, but the Chough has not firmly re-established itself there as a breeding bird. ; The history of the Chough in Scotland is fragmented but it does indicate a contraction of range and a decrease in numbers during the 18th and 19th centuries, probably starting in the inland and eastern parts of the country. By the turn of the present century, Islay was probably the only remaining place where Choughs were relatively common. Prior to 1982 there had never been a complete survey of the Chough in Scotland. In a partial survey in 1963, Rolfe (1966) estimated the Scottish population to consist of 70 in- dividuals, confined entirely to Argyll. Of these he considered only 11 pairs were breeding. Sharrock (1976) records Choughs as breeding on Islay, Jura and Colonsay, with probable breed- ing on Kintyre and at two other undisclosed sites in Scotland. Since the late 1960’s C. G. Booth has been recording obser- vations of Choughs on Islay and, in May 1976, carried out a 240 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 12(8) survey of coastal breeding pairs with C. J. Taylor; they esti- mated the population to be 135-140 birds (Booth and Taylor unpubl.) Two further surveys were carried out, in 1980 and 1981, together with an estimate of breeding pairs in 1981 (Warnes 1982). From these the population was estimated to be 160-180 birds in winter 1980-spring 1981 with 58 breeding pairs confirmed and a further three pairs possibly breeding. Survey metheds Two surveys on Islay were undertaken in 1982, the first by Brathay Exploration Group’s Islay expedition on 3-4 April. Set routes were walked around coastal and inland areas of the island. Sightings were recorded with full details of numbers, time, flight direction, behaviour and habitat information on field maps and recording sheets. Observations were co-ordin- ated to minimise double sightings of birds whilst giving adequate coverage of suitable habitats. Observations were made between 1000 and 1600 hrs BST. Some areas where ‘Elsewhere’ Figure 1. The Isle of Islay showing the three areas surveyed for Choughs in 1982 1983 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 241 Choughs had never been previously recorded were omitted from this survey but were visited later in the summer. In the second survey, carried out during April, May and June, both coastal and inland pairs were located and breeding status recorded as ‘definite’ or ‘possible’. Evidence accepted as a reliable indication of breeding was: birds carrying nest material to a site; single birds visiting a site in late April and May, when males feed incubating females; pairs visiting sites later in the season to feed young; or the noise of chicks calling from nests. All known sites from the breeding census in 1981 (Warnes 1982) were visited, together with other pos- sible areas. Over the rest of Scotland, most areas where Choughs were known to occur, or where sightings have been made in recent years (with the exception of the two undisclosed sites from Sharrock 1976), were covered by a number of volunteers. Results Islay The island was divided into three areas (Figure 1) and the number of pairs and non-breeding birds in each area re- corded. In Table 1 the results of the 1982 census are compared with those for 1981. The total number of Choughs on Islay in 1982 was between 141 and 175 individuals, including 53 definite breeding pairs and a further eight possible breeding pairs (total 61 pairs). At three nests there was a third bird present, the ‘helper’ known to assist in at least some of the stages of rear- ing young (Warnes 1982). These helpers are also included in Table 1. The Rhinns and Oa had the highest numbers of breed- ing pairs with the remainder scattered over the island, mainly in buildings (Warnes 1983). Table 1. The numbers of breeding and non-breeding Choughs on the Isle of Islay, Argyll in 1981 and 1982 Breeding Non-breeding Total no. pairs birds of birds Rhinns 1981 32-33 (+2 helpers) 17-27 83-95 1982 26-30 (+1 helper) 16-30 69-91 Oa 1981 15-17 (+3 nepers) 22-26 56-64 1982 17-19 (+2 helpers 16-20 52-60 Elsewhere 1981 11 0 22 1982 10-12 0 20-24 Totals 1981 58-61 (+5 helpers) 39-54 160-180 1982 53-61 (+3 helpers) 32-50 141-175 There seems to have been a slight decrease in the population size on Islay, and also in the number of breeding pairs, from 1981 to 1982. Whether the decrease was the result of severe frosts in winter 1981-2 is not known. Generally, how- ever, the population has increased since 1976 (Table 2) even 242 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 12(8) allowing for the 10-12 inland breeding pairs located in 1981 and 1982 which were not investigated in 1976. Table 2. Chough population estimates on Islay 1976-82 Total Number of population breeding pairs 1976 135-140 39-41 1981 160-180 58-61 1982 141-175 53-61 Kintyre In 1982 there was no confirmed breeding in either of the two areas recently frequented by Choughs. In one area seven birds were seen in February and again in May, but a cave with two old nests inside was not occupied, and through- out June only one Chough was seen there. In the other recently occupied area on Kintyre, one pair was seen in May and four birds in mid-July. A maximum of two pairs may therefore have bred on Kintyre in 1982, with a non-breeding flock of about seven birds. Flocks of up to 21 birds have been recor- ded in winter in recent years (E. Maguire, B. Zonfrillo). The area is difficult to search and any future attempts to survey Kintyre may be more successful if carried out from the sea. Colonsay and Oronsay In 1982 one pair of Choughs bred on Colonsay and successfully reared three young. There was no further evidence of Choughs on either island. Mull and the Treshnish Isles No Choughs were reported from Mull or from several of the Treshnish Isles in 1982 despite coverage of likely areas (Bar Mor, Lunga, Fladda and Cairn na Burgh Beg were not visited). It is possible, but unlikely, that pairs were missed along the south coast of Mull where the cliffs are inaccessible. Jura This island is difficult to search because of rough terrain, indented coastline and lack of tracks; hence coverage of the island was not thorough and information collected in 1981 is therefore included in the estimate of numbers. In 1982, there was no confirmed breeding although the sightings indicate that 6-8 pairs could have bred with a minimum of 7 non- breeders, making a total of 23 birds. Later, in September a flock of 17 was seen on the Paps of Jura. There are records of two pairs breeding in north Jura in recent years and a pair was seen in this area in 1982. A pair was also seen on the north side of Loch Tarbert and another on the west side of the Paps during the breeding season. All other sightings were made from the sea on the west coast, with the exception of four birds seen on Eilean Bhride in the south-east, near an islet which had a cave used by breeding birds until the roof collapsed some years ago (R. Mitchell pers. comm.) 1983 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 243 From the 1982 survey of Scotland it is evident that Islay is still the main stronghold of the Chough (Table 3). The total Scottish population is estimated currently to be between 171 and 211 birds, with over 80% occurring on Islay (141-175 birds). Compared with an estimated total of 70 individuals in 1963 (Rolfe 1966), the population would appear to have in- creased significantly. Table 3. The population of the Chough in Scotland in 1982 Total no. Islay Jura Colonsay Kintyre of birds Breeding pairs 3-61 6-8 1 1-2 122-144 Helpers 3 0 0 0 3 Non-breeders 32-50 max. 7 0 max 7 46-64 Total population 141-175 19-23 2 9-11 171-211 The 1963 survey was, however, incomplete and the results cannot properly be used as a basis for estimating any change in Chough numbers. On Islay, and possibly on Jura, numbers appear to have increased in recent years but elsewhere the Chough seems either to be decreasing (Colonsay) or fluctua- ting (Kintyre). Discussion The decline of the Chough in Scotland during the 18th and 19th centuries has been attributed to many factors, none of which offers a wholly satisfactory explanation. Competition with Jackdaws seems unlikely, but dietary and breeding studies where these species occur together are needed to veri- fy this; a study on South Stack, Anglesey (Bullock 1980) sug- gests there is no competition between them. Peregrines un- doubtedly take Choughs occasionally but are unlikely to have been the cause of decline in Chough numbers, as they were declining simultaneously, due to persecution. In the 19th Cen- tury, Choughs were shot as vermin and many eggs were taken for collections. This may well have accelerated the decline, and even seriously reduced numbers in some areas. Successive cold winters have been suggested as a possible cause of de- cline during 1820-80 (Rolfe 1966) but the prolonged frosts of the 1981-2 winter did not seem severely to reduce the Islay Chough population. There was, however, little snow cover in 1981-2 and the intense cold occurred only in two short periods, unlike earlier hard winters (1947-8 and 1962-3). In mid-Wales, where there was extensive snow cover, the number of breed- ing pairs fell between 1981 and 1982 (Bullock et al 1983), pro- bably due to increased winter mortality, and this may also have been the case on Kintyre. Thus periods of successive long, hard winters may have been the cause of the Chough decline in some areas. 244 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 12(8) Habitat destruction associated with agricultural improve- ments is another possible reason for falling Chough numbers. Choughs rely mainly on permanent and unimproved pastures, with large numbers of soil invertebrates (Warnes 1982). The agricultural improvements of the 18th Century involved much deep ploughing, fertilising and land reclamation including boulder removal (Millman 1975). These activities would have reduced the numbers of soil invertebrates available to Choughs. Land improvement proceeded rapidly in the low- lands and on the east coast, but more slowly in the south-west, which retained much pasture land for dairy cattle. Since the Highlands and Islands were not suitable for large arable and stock farms, improvements were scattered and untilled areas would continue to provide ideal Chough feeding habitats, par- ticularly in grassland around rocky outcrops. Over much of Scotland, however, ploughed land and improved pastures probably held a reduced diversity and number of invertebrates compared with older pastures (Warren and Goldsmith 1974), and would be less attractive to Choughs. This reduction in feeding potential, together with harsher winters on the east coasts and inland, would have been detrimental to the Chough populations in these areas. Also in many areas cattle began to be wintered inside, so depriving Choughs of the invertebrates and undigested grain in cow-pats which are so important to them in winter (Warnes 1982). CHOoUGH A. Dowell In the western Highlands, cattle numbers fell by 8% between 1911 and 1947 but on Islay numbers were maintained, despite a reduction in the human population of 68% during the same period, and cattle continued to be wintered outside; between 1911 and 1981 the cattle population on Islay nearly doubled. 1983 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 245, Permanent pastures and hill-grazings have been retained, on the whole unimproved, except where there are dairy herds and this continued land-use, together with mild winters and many suitable nest-sites, probably accounts for a still flourishing Chough population on the island. Radical landuse changes would therefore seem to be the most likely cause of the decline in Chough numbers in Scot- land in the 19th Century, possibly accelerated locally by shoot- ing and periods of successive cold winters. The decline closely follows the wave of agricultural improvements which had least effect in the west and the islands. Here, persecution by gamekeepers, egg-collectors and ‘sportsmen’ may have had a serious effect. The foregoing discussion gives probable reasons for the decline of the Chough in Scotland in the past. The 1982 survey results indicate that this decline has been arrested and that numbers may once again be increasing in some areas. On Islay, where the increase is most marked, permanent pastures are not generally being improved and the growing numbers of empty buildings now provide suitable nest-sites for an expand- ing population. If the increase in numbers continues on Islay, and Choughs firmly re-establish themselves on Jura and Kin- tyre, there may be movement of birds into some of their pre- viously occupied haunts. Acknowledgments I would like to thank all those who helped in the 1982 Chough survey : Dr E. M. Bignal, S. Bignal, M. Bignal, R. Bignal, R. Bennion, Brathay Exploration Group members, C. G. Booth, I. D. Bullock, J. Clarke, R. Coomber, J. Dawson, P. Ellis, C. Geddes, S. Gordon, R. Hickling, R. Kirk, J. Lee, E. Maguire, D. Merne, R. Mitchell, S. Newton, W. T. E. Norton, S. Payne, D. A. Stroud, Mr Smith, M. Taylor, G. Thomas, P. Thompson, Y. Way, B. Zonfrillo. Thanks are also due to the RSPB for their help in funding the 1982 project and all sponsors of the 1980-81 project, espec- ially B. L. Schroder and the World Wildlife Fund. Also, Ian Bullock, Dr C. J. Cadbury and Dr G. Thomas for their assistance and Dr D. M. Bryant, Jan Bullock, D. A. Stroud and C. J. Taylor for their helpful comments on the manuscript. All nest-sites of Choughs were visited under licence from NCC, to whom I am very grateful. Summary Results of a complete census of the Chough populations in Scotland in 1982 are given and compared with a previous complete census on Islay in 1981. In 1982, the total Scottish population was estimated as 171-211, 80% of which occurred on Islay. The results are discussed in the light of the historical decline of the Chough in Scotland and it is suggested that agricultural improvements of permanent pastures have been the major causes of the population decline, together with the effects of cold winters and human persecution. Numbers on Islay appear to be increasing and it is hoped that the population will further expand. 246 STATUS OF THE CHOUGH 12(8) References BAXTER, E. V. and RINTOUL, L. J. 1953. The Birds of Scotland. Edinburgh and London. # BRATHAY EXPLORATION GROUP’S REPORTS 1976, 1980. Expeditions to Colonsay and Oronsay. (BEG, Ambleside). HM BucHanan, J. H. 1882. The history of the Chough (Fregilus graculus) in Scotland. Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. 7: 94-107. M BuLLock, I. D., DREWETT, D. R. and MICKLEBURGH, S. P. 1983. Status of the Chough in Hritain and Ireland. Brit. Birds 76: 377-401. MH CoL- VILLE, D. 1980. Choughs formerly nesting in south-east Kintyre. West. Nat. 9: 64-65. HM GraHAM, H. D. 1890. The birds of Iona and Mull. Edinburgh. @ Gray, R. 1871. Birds of the west of Scotland including the Outer Hebrides. Glasgow. MM HarviE-Brown, J. A. and BUCKLEY, T. E. 1892. A vertebrate fauna of Argyll and the Inner Hebrides. Edinburgh. # MiLLMaNn, R. N. 1975. The making of the Scottish landscape. Batsford, London. § RoOLFE, R. 1966. The status of the Chough in the British Isles. Bird Study 18: 221-236. H SHar- ROCK, J. T. R. (ed.) 1976. The atlas of breeding birds in Britain and Ireland. Tring. H WarwnEs, J. M. 1982. A study of the ecology of the Chough (Pyrrho- corax pyrrhocorax L) on the Isle of Islay, Argyll, 1980-81. Unpubl. report held at the Univ. of Stirling. HM WarnEs, J. M. 1988. A breeding biology of the Chough on Islay, 1981-2. Scot. Nat. (in prep). WARREN, A. and GOLp- SMITH, F. B. (eds.) 1974. Conservation in practice. London. J. M. Warnes, Kindrochid, Sanaig, Bruichladdich, Isle of Islay The phenomenal migrant fall of October 1982 PETE ELLIS The weather during migration periods often brings bonuses for the birdwatcher, but seldom on the scale experienced in October 1982. This brief account sum- marises the main features of what was surely the most exceptional fall of migrants yet recorded in east Scotland. A major east coast fall of migrants must be one of the most spectacular sights in British birding. In October 1982 a series of falls occurred, peaking with a massive influx on the 11th. I shall always remember arriving the following morning at St Abbs Head to see a swarm of at least 1,000 Goldcrests moving through the tops of the sycamores in wave after wave. An unusual bird caught my eye as it flitted about in the branches. I got my binoculars on it as it landed only to find myself looking at two Pallas’s Warblers on the same twig. Such sights, enjoyed by birders on many parts of the east coast, resulted from an unusual combination of weather conditions. 1983 MIGRANTS IN OCTOBER 1982 247 Weather During the early part of the autumn an area of high pressure brought clear weather to western Russia, and would have facilitated the westward movement of several Siberian species. This anticyclone extended to Scandinavia in early October and probably stimulated a large south-west oriented movement of small passerines, particularly Goldcrests. At the same time an area of low pressure moved from the Atlantic into the North Sea and brought an easterly airstream to the British Isles. This depression became centred over the Firth of Forth on 11th October (Fig.). It is likely that migrants had set out while KEY — Warm front & Cold front Fig. Summary of weather situation 0600 hrs. GMT, 11 October 1982 248 MIGRANTS IN OCTOBER 1982 12(8) conditions were good over Scandinavia and the low countries, and were drifted west across the North Sea by the easterly winds under the disorienting effects of overcast skies. The thick cloud, mist and rain brought by the depression and asso- ciated fronts caused thousands of exhausted birds to seek refuge as soon as they reached land. Because a second depres- sion was centred over the south of England, with clearer weather in between, there was a marked separation between the areas affected by the largest falls. The biggest arrivals of migrants occurred in south east Scotland and north east Eng- land with smaller numbers to the north and south and a further large fall on the north Norfolk coast. The winds remained easterly and the weather generally poor on the 12th and 13th when further arrivals took place. After this conditions began to improve and the numbers of tired migrants in coastal areas gradually dwindled. Main species On the Isle of May the concentrating effect of the small island and the attraction of the lighthouse no doubt compounded the situation. The small band of birdwatchers lucky enough to be present was somewhat overwhelmed by around 22,000 migrants. The problems of counting and identifying such numbers must have been decidedly daunting. Further north on Fair Isle a fall of similar species also occurred, but al- though the numbers were large they were not on anything like the scale seen further south (Table 1). Some of the birds trapped at observatories were of very low weight, their fat fuel resources exhausted by their ordeal. Table 1. Numbers of selected species recorded on lith October 1982 Species Isle of May Fair Isle Dunnock 50 25 Robin 4,000 60 Redstart 50 10 Fieldfare 4,000 500 Redwing 800 1,250 Blackcap 600 150 Yellow-browed Warbler —_— 2 Chiffchaff 200 80 Goldcrest 15,000 200 Pallas’s Warbler 2 10 Brambling 400 500 Siskin 30 5 Goldcrests arrived in large numbers almost everywhere south of Shetland with the Isle of May holding an astounding 15,000 or so on 11th October (Table 2). As in several other 1983 MIGRANTS IN OCTOBER 1982 249 areas, some were so weak they could be picked up off the ground and, sensibly, ringing was stopped as soon as this was appreciated. It always amazes me that these tiny birds can cross the North Sea at all, even during good weather condi- tions. The bad weather that produces such good birdwatching, by stopping migration in its tracks, must take a tremendous toll. Who knows how many Goldcrests ended up in the sea during these falls. Table 2. Highest reported counts of Goldcrests over the period of the largest falls in October 1982 10 Oct 11 Oct 12 Oct 13 Oct Fair Isle 35 200 100 50 Holm Orkne — — — Noss Farm (Caithness) _ 30 — — Ninian Field (North Sea) — 200 —_— — Drums (Aberdeenshire) — 90 70 60 Montrose — —_— 1,000 — Isle of May 500 15,000 5,000 2,000 Barns Ness 190 — 150 100 St Abbs Head _ 2,000 1,500 — Burnmouth _— 350 200 — Robins were another major component of this movement most showing the yellowish tinge to the breast found in the continental race rubecula. Other typical October migrants represented in large numbers were Blackcaps, Scandinavian thrushes, Bramblings and Chiffchaffs. Many of the latter show- ed the pale plumage of the northern and eastern races abie- tinus and tristis. Scarce migrants and rarities Many birders with the patience to search methodically through the vast numbers of common migrants were rewarded by the sight of scarce and rare species. Over the main period Fair Isle and Shetland produced the bulk of these, despite the smaller numbers of common species there. The rare Pallas’s Warbler with its bright green and yellow plumage and intri- cate pattern of yellow head stripes, wing bars and rump patch is one of the most attractive of all the warblers to reach our shores. No less than 53 Pallas’s Warblers were reported in Scotland—which is quite remarkable when it is considered that there were only 17 previous Scottish records and no more than five had been recorded in any one year. This species’ origin in southern Siberia is sometimes suggested as one of the reasons why it is normally so much rarer than the similar but less well marked Yellow-browed Warbler, which breeds further north in Siberia. The falls of October 1982 were re- markable for the reversal in the relative numbers of these two 250 MIGRANTS IN OCTOBER 1982 12(8) Table 3, Distribution of Pallas’s and Yellow-browed Warblers in Scotland during the falls of October 1982 Area Pallas’s Warbler Yellow-browed Warbler Shetland 17 6 Fair Isle 12 2 Orkney 5 1 Caithness 3 1 Aberdeenshire 6 2 Fife Ness 2 —_ Isle of May 2 1 Berwickshire 6 1 Total 53 14 Total recorded in 1981 2 50 species seen in Scotland (Table 3). The Siberian contingent was further represented by a number of other species, partic- ularly warblers, with Lanceolated, Radde’s and Dusky Warblers reported. Some Scandinavian species normally recorded only in small numbers in Scotland arrived in excep- tional numbers, Rough-legged Buzzards and Great Grey Shrikes being particularly plentiful (Table 4). No doubt several rarities went undetected amongst the large numbers of com- mon birds at the sites that birdwatchers did check, but how many were lurking in small patches of bushes which birders never even visited ? Table 4. Some of the rarities and scarce migrants recorded in Scotland during the falls of October 1982 Total reported Rough-legged Buzzard 14 *Rufous Turtle Dove 1 *Richard’s Pipit 3 *Stonechat (races maura/stejnegeri) 5 Grey-cheeked Thrush 1 *Black-throated Thrush 1 *Lanceolated Warbler 1 *Pallas’s Warbler 53 *Yellow-browed Warbler 14 *Radde’s Warbler 3 *Dusky Warbler 1 Great Grey Shrike 28 Parrot Crossbill 15 *birds of Siberian origin. All in all, October 1982 produced some remarkable records. The day I spent on the coast on 12th October ended with an amazing tally of numbers and variety of species, including no less than seven Pallas’s Warblers, a Dusky Warbler and two Rough-legged Buzzards. This without doubt was one of the most memorable day’s birding I have ever spent. 1983 MIGRANTS IN OCTOBER 1982 251 Some of the records of rarities referred to in this text are subject to confirmation by the Rarities Committee. Acknowledgments I would like to thank all those county recorders, observatory wardens and birders without whose records this summary could not have been written. Summary Between 10th and 13th October 1982 an unusual combination of weather conditions produced a spectacular fall of migrants on the east coast, from Shetland to Berwick. These included unprecedented numbers of Gold- crests and also unusually many birds of Siberian origin, among them at least = a Warblers, only 17 of which had previously been recorded in Scotland. References ELKINS, N. 1983. Weather and Bird Behaviour. Poyser, Calton. M SPENCER, R. and CAWTHORNE, A. 1982. A memorable Spurn Ringers Course, BTO News 124. B Dennis, R. H. 1982. Ed. Scottish Bird Report 1981 @ Daily Weather Summary, Meteorological Office, Edinburgh. Pete Ellis, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5BN ae Mie. ANY Oh ; , i if y 7 a O@GrEY WactaiL K. Brockie 252 BIRDWATCHING IN THE MOORFOOTS 12(8) Birdwatching in the Moorfoots. R. W. J. SMITH As you leave Edinburgh by car heading south by east you climb slowly but steadily. Hardwoods are gradually left be- hind and the hedges disappear, to be replaced by drystane dykes. At 800 feet the scenery opens out with wide views over fields and moors to the Pentland and Moorfoot Hills. The foot- hills and tops of the Moorfoots cover an area of some 15 miles (from the A703 Peebles Road to the A68 Lauder Road) by perhaps half that in breadth. Although the rough grazing of the moorlands is being inexorably eaten up by drainage and the plough the sense of space is not affected. It is this feeling of freedom that is the main attraction for the city dweller and bird-watcher. Spring is an exciting time of year with Curlew and Lapwing in full song. Redshank and Snipe are still fairly common, al- though they are in retreat due to the drainage of field pools. Golden Plover is now scarce as a breeding bird below 1000 ft and you must get over 1500 ft to the wet peaty tops to see many. The shattered peat hags and bogs of Jeffries Carse above Portmore is one typical plover habitat; a few pairs of Dunlin nest in the same bleak terrain. In spring look too for flocks of Northern Golden Plover, full plumaged by April, mainly in the Middleton area but a hundred or so may be seen about Gladhouse. Dotterel are recorded irregularly, and there is even a rumour of a pair having bred! Probably-the most exciting spectacle of the area is provided by the geese as they arrive to roost at Gladhouse. Join us as we stand on the road to the east of the reservoir. The wind has died away and the sky has cleared. Two thousand geese arrive from the east in long wavering Vs. A grand clamour of another 2000 joins them from the north. Several other goose-watchers decide to go home, well satisfied with the performance. Then a low murmuring is heard far over the eastern moor, gradually strengthening till the excited voices of Pinkfeet are obvious. Against the darkening sky a long V appears, then more and more, until suddenly they are above us, wave upon wave, and we are drowned in a tumult of movement and sound. The skeins stretch for perhaps half- a-mile on each side of us. They come in high and lose height by side-slipping and tumbling for 1000 ft before flattening out and circling down to join the clamouring flocks on the water. In 5 minutes it is over. Were there perhaps 8500 birds ? No matter—the exhilaration remains. 1983 BIRDWATCHING IN THE MOORFOOTS 253 Most of the geese roost at Gladhouse though some may use Portmore or the small peaty pond at Fala Flow. At Gladhouse watch from the east road south of the boathouse, from the north road or from the unofficial car park at the SW corner. Go there an hour before dusk—or before dawn if you are energetic! A few Pinkfeet arrive in mid-September but Octo- ber is the best month, with numbers building up to a peak of 10,000-14,000 then falling rapidly until few are left by mid- November. A few hundred Greylag may also be seen, and in recent Octobers small parties of Barnacles have appeared on their way to the Solway. During the day the Pinkfeet feed in the Middleton area, or near Gladhouse; look out for the odd Whitefront, Brent or Snow Goose among them. As you travel through this rather bleak and relatively small upland area, with its occasional conifer windbreak and strip of turnips or barley, you may wonder how it has managed to acquire a bird-list of some 197 species. One factor is its position relative to the Firth of Forth and North Sea. Migrant waders arriving from Scandinavia head south from Tyninghame or Aberlady and are deflected south-west by the Lammermuirs and Moorfoots, or use the valley of the South Esk as a migra- tion route. An obvious attraction for these birds is the group of four reservoirs: Gladhouse, Portmore, Rosebery and Edge- law, in order of importance. In autumn NE winds bring the less common waders, such as Ruff, Spotted Redshank and Green or Wood Sandpiper. When water levels are high at Gladhouse little is seen of these movements, but a good stretch of mud proves a great attrac- tion. Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper may mingle with the Dunlin and the chance of a rare American wader lends a touch of the exotic. The final accolade was accorded by one enthusiast who, after the second record of Baird’s Sandpiper, announced that ‘it was the best place in Scotland” for that species ! There are in fact four records of three American wad- ers, and a commendable total of 31 wader species for the reservoir. Sadly, changes in the water regime at Gladhouse reduce the chance of that total being increased. With the coming ‘on stream’ of the new Megget Reservoir, the water level at Gladhouse will not be allowed to fall more than 5 ft, the era of large shingle and mud flats will end, and the place will lose its interest for passage waders. It will also lose its interest for trespassing ‘twitchers’, which will be one small gain. Please keep outside the boundary fence of this Nature Reserve unless you have access permission. Most of the birds may be seen from the roads, particularly from the SW car- park. Shoveler, once regularly breeding. no longer nest but 254 BIRDWATCHING IN THE MOORFOOTS 12(8) there are several pairs of Great Crested Grebes and rarities such as Garganey occasionally turn up. In 1982 Pomarine Skua and Sandwich Tern were recorded for the first time, both seen from the road, so keep a good look-out for two as yet unrecorded species—Long-tailed Skua and Little Tern! More likely, perhaps, is a Great Grey Shrike or one of the divers. Spring and autumn bring in hundreds of Fieldfares and Redwings and in some years several thousand Bramblings. This is a good time for the beginner who wants to see hawks. Find such a flock and wait and watch in the car. A sudden panic of birds will often draw attention to a Spar- rowhawk or Merlin making a swift approach low over the ground. Gulls, Rooks, ducks or waders will similarly rise in confusion when a Peregrine comes over. Portmore Reservoir, near the western end of our area, is well worth a visit. The Vertebrate Fauna of the Forth describes it as a “little gem” and it is indeed very picturesque. Leave your car at the main gate and take the 10 minute walk to the loch, where you keep to the east track. Portmore is best out- with the fishing season, with a selection of common duck and the chance of a rarer straggler, such as Smew or Slavonian Grebe. But even with dozens of fishermen present Ospreys and Black Terns have appeared, and in spring and summer Tree Pipit, a very local species in the Lothians, can be heard singing here. The track runs on over the hills to Eddleston and affords as good a chance as any in this area to see Buzzards. The Moorfoot Hills themselves are rather featureless and the main ornithological interest is in the valleys. The easiest access route to the hills proper is by the valley called ‘the Granites’—the B7007/B709 Innerleithen Road. From the car you may see breeding Wheatears, Whinchats, Ring Ouzels and at times Stonechats, and there are Oystercatchers, Common Sandpipers, Dippers and Grey Wagtails on the shingle and burns. This glen is as good as any in the area for raptor pas- sage; with the right weather conditions one might see Osprey, Buzzard, Goshawk, Hen or even Marsh Harrier. The odd im- mature Golden Eagle occasionally appears and Peregrine is regular over the hills although there is no established breeding site. Ravens nested for many years but are now scarce. With persistence and luck you might even get the second sighting for the area of Gyr Falcon, Rough-legged Buzzard or Snowy Owl! On the somewhat desolate tops Merlin and Short-eared Owl may nest, and in winter there are a few Snow Buntings. Returning to lower ground, look twice at any Partridge you see; many Redlegs were released a year or two back. They are probably not thriving but have bred and could still be 1983 BIRDWATCHING IN THE MOORFOOTS 255 present. Look out too for Blackcock lekking below the quarries on the Granite road and on the moor between Gladhouse and Portmore. Lastly, a word of warning. For about ten years our duck and other waterbirds suffered badly from the depredations of feral Mink. Peak numbers of wintering Mallard and breeding numbers of Tufties have dropped by 80% while Coot and Waterhen almost vanished. The gamekeepers have now been trapping these pests for two years, and 1982’s Tufted broods (six) were the best for many years. The traps used are wire live-catching cages. If you see one anywhere please leave it alone. That will be your contribution to conservation! R. W. J. Smith, 33 Hunter Terrace, Loanhead, Midlothian Short Notes The Crested Tit on Deeside The absence of breeding Crested Tits from Deeside, which has an abundance of apparently suitable habitat, has led to speculation as to why this area remains unoccupied. With the current renewed interest in the subject (Cook 1982), it seems appropriate to review past records from Deeside, provide some previously unpublished information and discuss the species’ present status there. The older records Neither McGillivray (1855) nor Sim (1903) mentioned Crested Tits on Deeside and Harvie-Brown (1906: 94) wrote “And I may add that of other places where authors have stated it to occur, there has not been any proof of a satisfying nature. I am not aware of a single authentic instance of it, for example, in Aberdeen or elsewhere in Dee yet...” Walter Stewart claimed to have seen “several” at Aboyne in January i897, but the record does not appear to have been published until much later (Stewart 1925), and no details are given. Baxter and Rintoul (1953) include this record (page 133) along with one other for Deeside: “In 1939 Colonel J. P. Grant of Rothiemurchus informed us that the Crested Tit had arrived in the Forest of Mar, having apparently travelled by the way of the Larig Ghrue” (page 132). This wording leaves doubt as to the nature and year of the observation and even the observer’s identity. Baxter and Rintoul appear not to have received a later record quoted in Campbell (1958): “J. P. Grant saw Crested Tits in very tall spruces at the Linn of Dee in the autumn of 1950. It seems more likely that they had come up the river valley than directly over the Lairig Ghru from Speyside’. Unless some or all of the Crested Tits that occur from time to time in Deeside are of continental origin (and there are extremely few records of Continental Crested Tits anywhere in Britain (B.0.U. 1971)) it is unlikely that they would have arrived any way other than over the Cairngorms from Speyside. Tits certainly are found occa- sionally in the area; there was even a Willow Tit at just under 2000 feet between Braemar and Aviemore on 17 Sept 1919 (Gordon 1919). A. Mac Gregor (Aberdeen Press and Journal, 1955) wrote of the “Scottish Crested Tit” as a “newcomer to Deeside” stating that “once found only in the old pinewoods of the Spey, (it) now nests in the Mar forest on the upper 256 SHORT NOTES 12(8) Dee”. It was also said to “have now founded a small colony in Mar forest” (MacGregor 1955). Unless this account can be authenticated, it should be dismissed. Unfortunately, it has been repeated by Steven and Carlisle (1959, pages 82 & 110). Crooke (1976: 38) wrote “... there are also local populations (of Crested Tits) in plantations in Moray, around Nairn and Banff, and even inland from Aberdeen”. Again the basis for this is unknown but it may have been taken from Steven and _ Carlisle onan an (incorrect) interpretation of the more recent records described elow. _ The recent records The number of reports of Crested Tits on Deeside increased during the 1970s. The first was a flock of 13 seen by R. Rae at the Punch Bowl in Glen Quoich on 18 September 1973. Progressively smaller groups of birds were seen at or near this location over the next few weeks but no precise details are available. On 22 September four were seen at the head of the Fungle, near Aboyne (per N. Picozzi), and on 28th a similar number seen at the head of the Birse Burn (per A.G.K.) where, on 2nd October, I heard one bird calling. (Because of the real danger of confusion with Coal Tits, all records of birds which were only heard should be considered less satisfactory than sight records). A. C. B. Henderson found one in the Forest of Birse on 2 November 1973 and in January 1974 A. Watson Sr. saw three at the foot of the Fungle on 4th, Dr D. Jenkins saw one in his garden in Aboyne on 5th or 6th and J. J. C. Hardey heard between one and five birds calling in Drumtochty Forest, Kincardineshire on 30th January. Later that year, on 5 May, M. A. MacDonald heard two or three at Glen Tanar. These latter birds were not in suitable breeding habitat (contra Cook 1982: 100). The next report was nearly a year later, on 17 March 1975 in Glen Quoich (R. Rae), the only record for that year. There were none reported in 1976 but in 1977 we had the first records of birds in apparently suitable breeding habitat during the breeding season. A single bird was seen in an Aberdeenshire forest on 8 May (M. Marquiss) and on 11 and 12 May I saw one in an area of very old, although not very large, pines and larches in Glen Dye, Kincardineshire (not Aberdeenshire as stated in the Scottish Bird Report for 1977 and, subsequently, in Nethersole-Thompson and Watson 1981). The bird was calling and singing and on both days I thought I could hear another two birds in the distance. On the 18th I saw one bird, still singing, in the same area but I was unable to find any on subsequent visits. On each of the three days I saw it, I followed the bird for at least half an hour in different parts of the wood and on each occasion lost it as it flew off quickly towards the same area, lower down the course of a burn that flowed through the wood. In spring 1978 I visited the site to dis- cover that the wood had been partly wind-blown during the winter and the rest had been clear-felled. Many of the trees were found, by counting annual rings, to have been about 160-180 years old. There have been no further Crested Tit records from Deeside to date. Discussion Martin Cook has suggested that there must once have been breeding Crested Tits on Deeside but that they were wiped out by a natural catastrophe, since when the Cairngorms have been an obstacle preventing their recolonization (1982: 102). There are no historical records to indicate that Crested Tits have bred in the area at any time in the last 150 years (prior to which records are poor), Although the 1973 arrival in Deeside took place after a summer with high numbers. in Strathspey (Nethersole-Thompson and Watson 1981), there is no reason to suspect that the occurrences in the 1970s were unique. The number of bird-watchers active in the North-East suddenly increased in the late 1960s and early 1970s, resulting in dramatic changes in the known status of many species of birds in the area (Knox 1977). This could partly ex- plain the increase in the number of Crested Tit records in Deeside, al- 1983 SHORT NOTES 257 though none has been reported in 1978-1982 when observer coverage has been equally good. It seems likely that there have been relatively frequent, but irregular, instances of birds dispersing from Speyside into Deeside and that at least one of these has led to a possible breeding attempt. The factors preventing these immigrants from becoming established remain a mystery but the temperature figures given by Cook suggesting that Deeside forests suffer colder winters than Speyside are misleading for two reasons. Firstly, he made an invalid comparison of daily mean temper- atures for 1941-1970 at Braemar with those from a different period at Glenmore Lodge. Secondly, although the Braemar figures may represent temperatures in the woods of Mar or Ballochbuie, it is not appropriate to apply these data to Deeside as a whole. Two of the Caledonian Pine- woods, Ballochbuie and Glen Tanar, are at lower altitudes than Mar and further from the central Cairngorms massif and could therefore be expected to be less cold in winter. The weather data presented here for Braemar, Balmoral, Dinnet and Banchory show that the temperatures are indeed warmer at the lower stations although there is very little difference between Braemar and Balmoral (Tables 1-2). Even if temper- ature is the critical factor limiting Crested Tit distribution in eastern Scotland, average daily mean temperature may not be the correct para- meter to consider. It could well be more appropriate to look at, for ex- ample, the data for each year separately as it only needs a single cold winter to bring about a severe reduction in numbers in parts of Speyside (Nethersole-Thompson and Watson 1981). Table 1. Average daily mean air temperature (°) at Braemar and Balmoral. 1941-1970 average Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Braemar 04 0.5 2.7 52 8.2 11.5 12.7 123 103 7.5 34 1.7 Balmoral 0.5 0.7 2.9 5.5 8.1 11.3 12.7 123 10.5 76 3.3 1.7 Table 2. Average daily mean air temperatures (°C) at Braemar, Balmoral, Dinnet and Banchory. Averaged from short-term records 1970-mid 1981 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Braemar 0.7 06 2.3 49 84 11.4 13.0 12.7102 74 36 2.6 Balmoral 12 09 26 49 82 11.2 12.7126 101 74 36 2.7 Dinnet 2.6 25 40 62 94 11.5 13.5 140116 76 42 4.0 Banchory 2.1 23 42 66 9.5 13.0 14.4 143 116 92 51 3.3 Note. These stations are the nearest ones for which published records are available to the Forest of Mar (above Braemar), Ballochbuie (between Brae- mar and Balmoral), Glen Tanar (Dinnet) and Glen Dye (Banchory). The weather stations are all in or near the valley bottom rather than in the glens. Data are not available for the whole period from Dinnet and Ban- chory, but the averages are believed to be sufficiently accurate for the purposes of this paper. The real reasons preventing the spread of Crested Tits into Deeside forests continue to elude us. In the light of the records during the 1970s the Cairngorms cannot be considered a complete obstacle to their dis- persal and other factors must be involved. The problem shows yet again the inadequacies of our assessment of bird habitats. Acknowledgments I am grateful to all the observers of the recent 258 SHORT NOTES 12(8) occurrences mentioned in the paper for permission to quote their obser- vations, including many details previously unpublished. Dr Bruce Camp- bell kindly answered a query about the various editions of his leaflet on the Crested Tit. Nick Picozzi and Dr Adam Watson made helpful criticisms of the manuscript. ALAN KNOX References BaxTErR, E. VY. & RINTOUL, L. J. 1953. The Birds of Scotland. Edinburgh @ B.O.U. 1971. The Status of Birds in Britain and Ireland. Oxford §§ Campbell, B. 1958. The Crested Tit. Forestry Commission Leaflet No. 41. London @ Cook, M. J. H. 1982. Breeding status of the Crested Tit. Scot. Birds 12: 97-106 HM CrooKE, M. 1976. Animals and birds of the woodlands. Pp. 32-42 in Epuin, H. L. (Ed.) Forests of North-East Scotland. Forestry Commission Guide. Edinburgh M Gorpon, S. 1919. Willow Tit on high ground in Aber- deenshire. Brit. Birds 13: 195-6 [§ Harviz-Brown, J. A. A Fauna of the Tay Basin and Strathmore Edinburgh #§ Knox, A. G. 1977. Bird records from North-East Scotland: 1951-1976. North-East Scotland Bird Report 1976: 8 HM MacGILiLivray, W. 1855. The Natural History of Deeside and Praemar. London #§ MacGrecor, A. 1955. How Dee's wildlife has been trans- formed. The Press and Journal No. 31,443. 11 October 1955 (§ NeErtrHER- SOLE-THOMmpPSON, D. & Watson, A. 1981. The Cairngorms. 2nd Edn. Perth ® Sim, G. 1903. The vertebrate fauna of “Dee”. Aberdeen Mf STEVEN, H. M. & CARLISLE, A. 1959. The native Pinewoods of Scotland. Edinburgh @ STEw- ART, W. 1925. Crested Tit in Lanarkshire. Scot. Nat. 1925: 46. A Trio of Magpies During the last ten years the lower Deeside suburbs of Aberdeen have been progressively colonised by Carrion Crows, and assemblies of up to a hundred can now be seen in spring. More recently these have been joined by Magpies. One pair first appeared in 1982 and successfully reared a brood of five young in a tree beside the garden of the first two authors, affording an unusually close view of their domestic arrangements, The young were thought to have left in the autumn, but in December it was noticed that there were still three birds occasionally visiting the nest together. By March there were only two, and it was suspected that the third, which could be recognised by a slight abnormality of its wing pattern, had sought a mate elsewhere. About a month later it reappeared —with a shorter tail, however, and began to visit the nest again, although since the leaves had come out it was no longer possible to see what happened there. It continued to attend the family when another five chicks fledged, so that eventually there were eight birds present. It is not clear whether the extra adult is a member of last year’s brood which has stayed with its parents an unusually long time, or whether the three old birds have formed a triangular relationship of the type found in some other orders such as the Charadriiformes. In any case it appears that the extra individual may have gone away and started a premature moult when the original pair began incubating, but then rejoined the family when the chicks hatched. G. E. SIMPSON, J. D. SIMPSON and W. R. P. BOURNE Franklin’s Gull in Ayrshire During the afternoon of 2 July 1980 I found an immature Franklin’s Gull feeding with Black-headed Gulls on an area of mud at Bogside, Irvine, Ayrshire. On returning that evening with R. G. Caldow it was re-located and subsequently remained in the area until 6 July being seen Piate 28. ‘‘The Major’ receiving his presentation from the President at the Club’s 47th A.G.M. on 5th November, 1983 (p. 237). Don A. Smith et aOR a eA Piate 29. Although many still use the traditional caves for breeding in, the Choughs on Islay are increasingly making use of derelict buildings as nest sites (p. 238). Martin B. Withers Piate 30. During the migrant rush in October 1982 (p. 246) many birds took advantage of North Sea installations as resting places. These tired Blackcaps were able also to “refuel” on fruit put out for them on the Ninian Southern platform. \ Sam M. D. Alexander Piate 31. This female Gyr Falcon landed, exhausted, on BP’s Kingsnorth UK drilling rig on 3rd November, 1982 and was taken to Culterty for recuperation. It was released on 15th November but, sadly, was found dead near Rhynie in April 1983. | Sam M. D. Alexander 1983 SHORT NOTES 259 by many people. During its stay it frequented the muddy estuaries of both the rivers Garnock and Irvine, most often feeding with Black-headed Gulls. At high water it was occasionally to be found roosting with other gulls on nearby playing fields. The gull was in active moult and was considered to be in first-summer plumage moulting into second-winter plumage. It was noticeably smaller than the Black-headed Gull, being shorter in both body and leg length. This constitutes the first Scottish record and the sixth for Britain of this highly migratory gull which breeds on the prairies of North America and winters on the Pacific coasts of Central and South America. D. L, CLUGSTON Descriptions of Franklin’s Gull can be found in Brit. Birds 64: 310-313, and Sharrock, J. T. R. & Grant, P. J. 1982. Birds new to Britain and Ireland Poyser, Calton, pp 166-169.—Eds. Golden Eagle Alarm Cails At 0610 hrs on 1 June 1983, in a wood in Deeside, Aberdeenshire, in thick mist, I heard high-pitched calls which at first seemed reminiscent of the alarm call of a hen Red Grouse. A Golden Eagle soon appeared and landed in a tree about 50 m away. It was being mobbed by a crow, and later by two crows, which repeatedly dived through the trees at the eagle and called noisily. The eagle kept up the same high-pitched call that I had heard earlier, a continuous clucking and squawking, al- most poultrylike in quality and sometimes resembling bottles being knocked together. I wrote down “goak-goak...” and “cluick-cluick ...” These calls were frequently continuous for 10-15 sec. bouts throughout most of the c. 5 min. that the bird was near me. During this time the eagle did not appear to see me and so the alarm was at the crows, not at me. These calls may be those recorded in BWP, Vol. 2, p. 241 as “like loud call of domestic hen” by a sitting hen eagle, but were uttered in alarm and by an eagle perched in the middle of a pine tree. I could not see whether the bird was an adult, but the wood often holds an occupied eagle eyrie. P . _ DAVID JENKINS Song-flighting Mistle Thrush During recent years when engaged in bird census in mature pine woods I have several times thought Mistle Thrushes to be ventriloquial when singing out of sight in the canopy. On 9 May 1983, I watched one singing continuously in flight above a tall wood in Glen Tanar, Aber- deenshire, while covering a semi-circle with diameter about 300 m. Circular flights early in the year are mentioned in The Handbook, and the species is known to sing on the wing; but song-flighting throughout the breeding season could be regular, perhaps especially when the birds are nesting in tall woods with dense canopies. DAVID JENKINS 260 SHORT NOTES 12(8) Redwings in a Highland Glen A regular feature of the bird life of a highland glen is the vast flocks of Redwings which descend to feast on the autumn berry crop, mainly rowan, elder and bird cherry. Since 1976 large numbers of Redwings have been caught in autumn at feeding sites around Drumnadrochit, Glenurquhart, Inverness-shire. The aim of this note is to describe these movements and to compare them with those at coastal bird observatories, as discussed by da Prato et al (1980). Much of the published information on Redwing movements is based on data from coastal areas. It would appear, however, that Redwings normally overfly coastal areas in nor- thern Scotland, deliberately heading for the inland glens, and that large numbers land on the coast only under adverse weather conditions. Table 1. Numbers of Redwings caught in Glenurquhart 1976-1982 in seven day periods October November Sep. 26-2 3-9 10-17 18-24 25-31 1-7 8-14 15 onwards 1976 0 0 13 228 141 ll 0 0 1977 0 15 32 43 63 26 7 0 1978 0 0 192 4 0 2 1 20 1979 0 2 181 215 18 2 0 0 1980 O e) 7 30 0 1 0 1 1981 13 87 22 5 0 0 0 0 1982 0 2 25 360 11 0 0 0 Redwings arrive in the glens in late September, reach a peak in October, and have mostly gone by mid-November; this pattern is similar to that observed in coastal areas. Table 1 shows how the timing and volume of passage varies from year to year at Drumnadrochit (ringing effort in terms of time, sites, and number of nets used was fairly constant from 1976-82). Although peak passage tends to be between 10th and 24th October there is much annual variation, largely due to weather conditions. Depressions with westerly winds tend to hold up migration, whilst anticyclonic activity and easterly winds encourage onward movement. The weather also affects Redwing numbers but the size of the berry crop has an even greater effect (Table 2). Years with a heavy berry crop result in large numbers of birds being seen and caught in the glen, whereas in poor berry years many fewer are present. Table 2. Annual totals of Redwings caught in Glenurquhart and state of Rowan berry crops No. caught Rowan Crop No. caught Rowan Crop 1976 393 Heavy 1980 39 Poor 1977 186 Poor 1981 127 Moderate 1978 219 Moderate 1982 398 Heavy 1979 418 Heavy Adults predominate in these movements (Table 3), and only 36.8% of those caught are first year birds (about 1% cannot be aged properly). Da Prato et al expressed surprise at the high percentage of adults at Fair Isle. They expected more young birds, arguing that these are more likely to be forced to land by adverse weather conditions. However, as Table 3 shows, Fair Isle does have more young birds than Glenurquhart, and this difference is significant (x2=4.8 p<0.05). 1983 SHORT NOTES 261 Table 3. Age ratio of Redwings at Glenurquhart and Fair Isle % adults % first year Sample size Glenurquhart 62.2 36.8 1762 Fair Isle* 58.1 41.9 776 *figures taken from da Prato et al. 1980. Another feature of these movements is that the birds pass through very quickly, with most individuals remaining in the area for less than 24 hours. This assertion is supported by the very low retrap rate from day to day, with only 5 birds of the 1780 handled being caught again on a subsequent day. Also, the birds appear to reach their winter quarters fairly quickly, as witnessed by the capture in Gironde, France on 15 November 1976 of a bird ringed only 3 weeks earlier in Drumnadrochit. There is no evidence that the birds use the same migration route each year, Indeed the recovery in October 1981 at Spurn Point, Humberside, of a bird ringed at Drumnadrochit in October 1979 supports the theory that the route used is variable. Redwings arriving in Scotland are most likely to originate from Iceland or northern continental Europe. Icelandic Redwings (T.i.coburni) can be separated on plumage characteristics (Witherby et al 1943), and only 3 of the 1780 birds caught have been of the Icelandic race. The Drumna- drochit birds are therefore presumed to be largely of more easterly origin; the capture of one ringed as a nestling in the province of Kyni in eastern Finland supports this view. Of the five recoveries to date from continental wintering areas, four were in southwest France/north Spain and one in Portugal; all were between November and February. Only small numbers of Redwings winter locally (usually under 30) and in some years none do. Spring migration takes place in April and early May but numbers are small, rarely exceeding 100, and the birds mostly occur along the moorland edge. It appears that highland glens provide important refuelling stops for Redwings after their long North Sea crossing. Although many berries are available rowans are most favoured; these are in plentiful supply in the glens in October, whereas in coastal areas they have often already been devoured by the resident birds. The Redwing passage in the glens lasts as long as the rowan berries do and numbers drop rapidly once the crop is exhausted. Other berries are eaten, especially bird cherry early on and elder later, but these are of secondary importance, being used mainly in years of a poor rowan crop. In such years it is suspected (from calls heard at night) that many birds overfly the area, presumably going on to make refuelling stops further south. The pattern of Redwing movements in Glenurquhart, and presumably typical of many highland glens, appears to be one of brief stops for rapid refuelling before the birds continue on their southwestward migration. The movements seen at coastal areas are similar to those found inland, but involve a larger proportion of young birds and more rapid onward passage as weather conditions improve, probably because the available food supplies are smaller there. References da Prato, S. R. D., da Prato, E. S. & Chittenden, D. J. 1980. Redwing migra- tion through the British Isles. Ringing & Migration 3: 9-20 HM Witherby, H. F., Jourdain, F. R. C., Ticehurst, N. F. & Tucker, B. W. 1943. The Hand- book of British Birds Vol. 2. London. R. L. SWANN 262 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 12(8) Reviews Fair Isle, a Photographic History, by George Waterston and Jean Jones; Blackwood, Edinburgh, 1983; 96 pages; 131 monochrome photographs and maps; Hardback £10, Softback £4.95. George had endless plans and ambitions for Fair Isle: many were ful- filled, but sadly he did not live to see the publication of his album of photographs. He would have been delighted with it! The more I turn the pages, the more I like it, and appreciation is not necessarily depen- dent on familiarity with the scenes and characters. The text is brief—a short biography of George Waterston and three pages of introduction to the island, while the photographs span over a century of human activity. The earliest is a remarkable record of the wrecked Lessing taken in 1868, and the long series on island life and work in the early years of this century is quite fascinating. In later photographs it is remarkable how often that eminently photogenic character George Stout of Field appears ! (“‘Fieldy”—-one of George’s favourites.) The standard of reproduction is extremely high and there are few errors of any sig- nificance. Congratulations to Jean Jones and the publishers. IAN DURANCE PENNIE Bird Migration by C. Mead; Newnes Books, Feltham, 1983; 224 pp; 36 col & 30 plain photos; many maps & diagrams; £9.95 Mead’s Bird Migration packs a lot of up to date information into its text, maps and numerous diagrams. Besides the traditional topics of background history, descriptions of migratory movements and mechan- isms of orientation and navigation, this book covers the mechanics and energy of flight and the way that migration is fitted into the life history cycles of breeding and moult, finishing with evolution and ways. of studying migration. Mead’s scope is world wide and few really good examples are not mentioned somewhere. The publishers assert that this book is suitable for interested laymen; in fact it is too technical. Even the serious amateur might have difficulty in interpreting some of the diagrams whilst the photographs and maps are very poorly placed in relation to the text—this shows signs of being written hurriedly, with some poor phrasing and failure to use good examples to explain generalisations. Careful arguments sit next to state- ments like “nature abhors a vacuum”, suggesting that the readership was not kept in view consistently. A third of the bibliography is foreign language or difficult to get. The volume of information is too little to be comprehensive whilst too much for a newcomer to grasp the main points easily. Only the most knowledgeable birdwatcher would fail to find much new and interesting material, but I think they would have to be already interested in migration and often need to persevere in digesting the chapters. CLIFF HENTY Birds of Ayrshire by Angus Hogg. Glasgow University Press 1983; 81 pp incl. bibliog.; 17 figs; line drgs; £2 (Softback) The many changes in the Ayrshire populations of both birds and bird- watchers have created a need for a replacement for Richards’ 17 year old checklist. This need has now been ably met by a small group of local ornithologists (their names are rather coyly tucked away in the introduction). Within the new checklist, each bird’s name is followed by a short group of letters which give an “instant” indication of its current status in the county. This is followed by a more detailed note 1983 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 263 which, while concise, is admirably free of confusing abbreviations, While the text is mainly concerned with the period 1966-1982, earlier records are introduced where these throw useful light on population changes. The appearance of the book is enhanced by many drawings by W. R. Brackenridge, A. Dowell, B. C. Forrester and A. J. Kilgour, Visitors to Ayrshire may wish that a more detailed map of the county had_been provided, as a number of the sites mentioned in the text may be difficult to locate. Apart from this quibble, Angus Hogg and his group are to be congratulated on producing a book which will find a valued place on many bookshelves. R. HISSETT The Birds of the Balearics by David A. Bannerman and W. Mary Ban- nerman; Croom Helm, Beckenham, 1983; 230 pages; 12 coloured plates; many line drawings; £29.50. It would have been very pleasant to accord a fitting tribute to this, the last work of one of Scotland’s most notable ornithologists and authors. However, I feel the publisher must take the blame for what is a most disappointing book. The aims of the book are not well defined, and I wonder if it is really necessary to have a species description for each bird when field guides are available. The quality of reproduction of some of the black and white work is dreadful, although the coloured plates are excellent. Information on status appears poor and outdated—it is hard to believe that so little could be written on Marmora’s Warbler. Many species appear to be omitted or poorly summarised, e.g. Spoonbill, Cattle Egret, Marsh Sandpiper, and Subalpine Warbler—surely the Grupo Ornithologia Balear has received more recent records from visiting bird- watchers. Historically, the status section is well served up to the early 1970’s, and Bannerman’s knowledge of migration and Mediterranean birds contributes much to the overall value of the book. However, with the taxonomic list going off the rails at Warblers, and a price tag which seems a bit high, I fear the publisher in his effort to rush into print, must ask himself if this is not a missed opportunity to record properly the end of a glorious era. ANGUS HOGG Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa: the Birds of the Western Palearctic, Volume III : Waders to Gulls, edited by Stanley Cramp et al.; Oxford University Press, 1983; 913 pp; 105 colour plates, many drawings, diagrams and maps; £49.50. The seven volumes of BWP will undoubtedly be the standard work of reference for many decades to come. This volume follows the format established in volumes one and two, and deals with the popular and much studied groups, the waders, skuas and gulls. The standard of pres- entation is extremely high, with excellent plates and line drawings. The thoroughness of the coverage of European literature on each species is quite remarkable, with over 3000 references cited, including many in journals otherwise unlikely to come to the attention of British ornith- ologists (such as Fauna Tadzhikskoy SSR, Trudy Bynro Kol’tsevaniya and Beitr. Naturk. Forsch. Sudw. Dtl.). This extremely careful and com- plete review of the literature makes BWP outstandingly useful to both professional and amateur ornithologist. I found several items of unfam- iliar information in the section on my favourite bird the Great Skua, while it was a joy to read in detail about the Sabine’s Gull, a species in which I recently developed an interest but had, until now, been unable to find much information. I am sure wader enthusiasts will revel in the detailed sections on species such as Terek Sandpiper and Broad-billed Sandpiper, for which previous English-language accounts have been sparse and superficial. 264 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 12(8) Many people will no doubt be put off attempting to collect the seven volume series by the high, and ever-increasing, price. In my opinion, volume 3 is good value for money as an account of the biology of Western Palearctic waders, and will no doubt be bought on its own by wader enthusiasts, as well as by those intending to invest in the series. I would level two criticisms. In a laudable attempt to obtain as up-to-date an account as possible, several sections, particularly those on behaviour, are based largely on unpublished observations by research students, rather than on older published material. These naturally carry less con- viction than publications by established authorities. It seems strange, for example, to refer to P. G. H. Evans pers. comm. when stating that male and female Kittiwakes defend the nest site, when this is discussed in detail in several papers by J. C. Coulson. My main concern about BWP is that many statements are presented as facts about a species, though in the original publications these may have been presented with certain qualifications. Studies based on years of detailed research are not readily distinguished from short notes resulting from casual observations. While BWP is undoubtedly an outstanding achievement, I hope ornith- ologists will refer to the original references it cites, where data are put in context. R. W. FURNESS Flight of the Storm Petrel by R. M. Lockley; David & Charles, 1983; 176 pp; 80 line drgs & maps; £7.95. A rather anecdotal survey of the world’s small storm-petrels. The author, now in his 80th year, has reflected on, and largely reproduced, his earlier work with Storm, Madeiran and Leach’s Petrels and added some new accounts of several species encountered on his travels in the southern hemisphere. This is neither a scientific treatise nor an expos- ition of new biological data on the group as a whole. Information is spread widely throughout the text in variable quantities and would have been better summarised or tabulated in most cases. Treatment of each species is annoyingly unmethodical and occasionally misleading—for example Storm Petrels on the Isle of May were not responding to tape lures from their nest holes, as is stated. However despite the numerous digressions and reminiscences, birdwatchers in general will enjoy reading about this most interesting and unknowable group of species. B. ZONFRILLO Seabirds: an illustrated guide by Robin Harrison; Croom Helm, London, 1983; 448 pages; 88 plates, 31 figures, 312 maps. £15.95. This is basically a massive twitcher’s manual the size of a small hand- book based upon seven years’ wandering round the world with a sketch- book chatting to the natives; the author does not appear to read much. It is presented in the fashionable manner, combining maximum conven- ience to the publisher with maximum bother to the reader, as three repetitive sections of annotated illustrations, systematic descriptions, and maps, and is almost entirely concerned with identification. In general the text is thorough and orthodox but in common with the illustrations lacks most of those important little details to which Roger Peterson used to point with arrows. A few of the less fortunate recent taxonomic innovations have also been accepted uncritically, although the forms concerned are usually dealt with adequately under other headings. It is approximately twice as heavy, complicated, accurate, costly and useful as its nearest rival, and should do much to help raise standards of iden- tification. W. R, P. BOURNE 1983 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 265 Estimating Numbers of Terrestrial Birds edited by C. J. Ralph and J. M. Scott. Studies in Avian Biology No. 6, Cooper Ornithological Society, 1981; 640 pages; numerous black-and-white diagrams; £15.20 (avail- able from SOC Bird Bookshop, Edinburgh). This is a report on an international symposium which attracted 82 main papers, dealing largely with the methodologies (and problems thereof) currently employed in counting terrestrial birds, particularly passerines. The proceedings are divided into 14 sections of which 10 are academic in nature; the remainder introduce and summarize the aims and achievements of the symposium, not the least of which was to produce an estimated 1550 references. For the European fieldworker and analyst familiar with the major references the only new universally-appli- cable findings are in the sections dealing with observer variability, sampling design and data analysis, although some stimulating ideas are also to be found amongst the “overviews” and in the appendices on the needs for standardized terminology, methodologies and a manual of counting methods. For a book which is a major contribution towards improved accuracy in bird counting the proceedings are affordable at £15.20 in softback, but since they deal purely with methodology and largely with non-Palearctic species, they will probably appeal only to serious students of songbird counting (to whom they must be recommended) and not to British birders in general. TOM W. DOUGALL The Shelduck : a study in behavioural ecology by I. J. Patterson; C.U-P., 1982; 276 pages; 18 drawings; 6 plain photos; many tables & graphs. £27.50. This book is about Shelduck societies, considered as both behavioural and ecological units. It describes social behaviour in non-breeding flocks and the territorial system, passes through the social interactions of pro- specting for nest-sites to a description of the behaviour and ecology of breeding, and finishes by considering recruitment to and limitation of Shelduck populations. It is largely concerned with the functional signi- ficance of the observed behaviour, that is with the selective forces that have moulded behaviour during evolution. Unfortunately, most studies of Shelduck have been performed at large breeding concentrations. Pienkowski and Evans have recently shown that these are not self-sustaining but depend for their continued existence on immigration from populations breeding in more dispersed conditions. They have pointed out that this implies that Shelduck observed in the concentrations are likely to behave in ways that are appropriate under dispersed conditions (in which their ancestors lived) but are inappropriate in concentrated populations. Thus questions of evolution and function may not be answerable from studies of such concentrations. It is regret- table that Patterson has not fully integrated this and other results of Pienkowski and Evans into his book. J. J. D. GREENWOOD The Wildfowl of Britain and Europe by Malcolm Ogilvie, illustrated by N. W. Cusa and Peter Scott; Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1982; 84 pp; 50 colour plates; £6.95. This book is divided into two sections—a general introduction to wild- fowl, which gives a very basic insight into their characteristics and biology, and a series of plates with short notes on the distribution, num- 266 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 12(8) bers and identification of individual species. The plates are taken directly from The Birds of the Western Palearctic (BWP) but their high quality is marred by the frequent errors (noted on 14 of the 50 plates) between caption numbers on the plates and the reference in the species descrip- tions, and the limited amount of information in the text. Distribution maps would also have been helpful. Other than the reference to the BWP there is unfortunately no bibliography. One must conclude that the publishers are trying to boost their earnings from the BWP by attempt- ing to enter a wider market. The price of the book may encourage its sale but I would recommend the intending purchaser to examine other books on wildfowl on the market at the present time which provide more detail before considering this book for their library. ALLAN W. BROWN Also received Ornithologische Beringungsstationen in Europa by Hans Bub; Dachver- bandes Deutscher Avifaunisten, Germany, 1983; 190 pp; 85 monochrome photos; DM 20 (S). German text with English summaries. Perspectives in Ornithology by A. H. Brush & G. A. Clark, Jr (eds); aoe University Press, 1983; 560 pp; line drgs, tables & graphs; The British Birds’ Mystery Photographs Book by J. T. R. Sharrock; British Birds Ltd., 1983; 32 pp; 40 plain photos; £4.80 (S). The Birds of Runde and the neighbouring islands by R. Engvik; Sunnmors- posten, Norway, 1983; 100 pp; 80 col & 37 plain photos; NOK 69 (S). Norwegian, English and German text. Birds of Prey of Britain and Europe by I. Wallace. Illustrated by I. Willis; Oxford University Press, 1983; 86 pp; incl 33 pp col plates; £6.95. Bliki, Timarit um Fluga; Icelandic Museum of Natural History, No. 1, May 1983; 55 pp; 15 plain plates; maps; this new bird journal will appear at least once a year; Icelandic text with English summaries. PAPERS OF SCOTTISH INTEREST, mainly on the status and distribution of birds, are listed here. Some are published and others are unpublished. Some biological studies are excluded, as are references from the widely available journals British Birds, Bird Study, Ringing and Migration, and This. Most items_listed are available for reference in the Waterston Library. The librarian welcomes copies of work on any aspect of ornith- ology. Red-throated Divers breeding on Uist in 1982. (3 pp). D. J. R. Counsell 1983. Army Bird Watching Society Bulletin no. 1/83. Seasonal changes in the hunting behaviour of Kestrels. A. Village, 1983. Ardea 71: 117-124. This is a study in south Scotland. Modelling annual changes in numbers of breeding Fulmars at a colony in Orkney, J. C. Ollason & G. M. Dunnet 1983. J. Anim. Ecol. 52: 185-198. Hebridean Naturalist no. 7 (75 pp). J. A. Crummy (ed) 1983. Journal of the Western Isles Natural History Society, includes ‘A seabird survey of the Western Isles in 1977’, notes on colonies of Cormorants and of Rock Doves, and ‘Birds of the Outer Hebrides in 1982’. £2.25 post free from SOC Bird Bookshop. Seabird Report for 1977 to 1981. vol. 6. (134 pp). P. G. H. Evans & T.R. Birk- head (eds) 1982. Includes eight papers on Scottish seabirds (listed separ- ately below) and an obituary of George Waterston. The birds of Boreray, St Kilda. N. Duncan, K. Taylor, S. Wanless & V. Wood 1982. Seabird Report 6; 18-25. Breeding Great and Arctic Skuas in Scotland in 1974-75. M. J. Everett 1982. Seabird Report 6: 50-58. 1983 REVIEWS AND CURRENT LITERATURE 267 Leach’s Petrels present on Ramna Stacks, Shetland. J. A. Fowler 1982. Sea- bird Report 6: 93. Population, breeding biology and diets of seabirds on Foula in 1980. R. W. Furness 1982. Seabird Report 6: 5-12. Methods used to census skua colonies. R. W. Furness 1982. Seabird Report 6: 44-47. Breeding seabird populations in the coastal regions of Yell Sound [Shetland]. D. A. Hill & J. A. Fowler 1982. Seabird Report 6: 13-17. Seabird attendance at the Isle of May, Fife, 1-6 April 1979. M. Sharp 1982. Seabird Report 6: 39-43. Shiants Razorbills: Movements, first year survival, and age of first return. D. J. Steventon 1982. Seabird Report: 6: 105-109. A study based on 6000 Razorbills ringed on the Shiant Islands, Outer Hebrides. Breeding Terns in Britain and Ireland, 1975-79. G. J. Thomas 1982. Seabird Report 6: 59-69. Includes separate counts for Scotland and its main col- onies. Clyde Bird Report for 1981 no. 7. (75 pp). I. P. Gibson (ed) 1983. Includes an article by E. J. Maguire on autumn migration in Sanda in 1981 and on Storm Petrels at Sanda. £1.35 post free from Renfrew District Council Museums Service, High Street, Paisley PAl 2BA. NOTICES Eiders and Mussels The problem of Eiders eating “cultivated”? mussels at West Coast mussel farms is currently being investigated by Aberdeen University. In order to trace Eider movements a number of ducks have been marked with coloured tags (yellow, white or green) on their wings. Anyone sighting a tagged bird is asked to report the location, date and colour of tag to Colin A. Galbraith, 4 Achagoil, Minard, Inveraray, Argyll. Gull movements As part of a study of the movements of Black-headed and Common Gulls in North East England birds have been marked with either wing tags (bearing an identifying letter and number) or coloured leg rings. Anyone sighting a gull marked in this way is asked to note the following details : (1) colour(s) of tags or rings (2) number engraved on tag (3) date & place (4) age of bird (adult or immature), and to for- ward this information to Gabriela MacKinnon, University of Durham, Dept. of Zoology, South Road, Durham DHI1 3LE. Hebridean Natural Environment Project An attempt is currently being made to build up a complete data-bank for the Outer Hebrides as part of a resource centre available for use by educational groups and interested individuals. Material will be collected from a wide diversity of scientific publications and will be constantly updated. Members interested in either contributing to or making use of this data-bank are invited to contact ue F. R. Rennie, Hebrides Study Centre, Glen House Mill, Shawbost, Isle of Lewis. Conference The British Trust for Ornithology is to hold a “Birds of Prey” Birdwatchers’ Conference at the Swanwick Conference Centre, Derby- shire, from 17-19 February 1984. Eight of the twelve speakers are SOC members and many of the lectures cover work carried out in Scotland. Further information can be obtained from the BTO, Beech Grove, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5NR. 268 WINTER ATLAS 12(8) Winter Atlas Two years of fieldwork have been completed for the BTO/IWC Winter Atlas and this winter is the third and final one. The fieldwork is based on the 10 km squares of the National Grid and records are wanted from 12th November 1983 to 29th February 1984. The recording is very simple : observers should note how many of each species they see (or hear) and how long they spend in the field. These counts will be used to give a relative abundance figure for each species in each square, and the final maps will therefore show where each species is commoner and where it is scarcer. The aim is to get at least one card, preferably from a count of at least six hours, from each 10 km square in Britain and Ireland. After two winters, just over 80% have reached this target, with a further 10% having received visits of at least one hour. This is a considerable achieve- ment but there remains a lot to do; about 300 squares have not been visited at all and about 400 more for less than six hours. We do not just want counts from squares that have not yet been covered; repeat visits are also valuable. As will have been obvious, the first two winters of the survey have been very different, one very cold and the other very mild. The response to the survey during these years has been good enough to show any differences in bird distribution be- tween them, (Preliminary indications are that the differences for many species are fairly minor.) There are also enough data to give indications of any changes during the course of a single winter, e.g. the Redwing changes during 1981/82 illustrated on the front of last winter’s Instruc- tions leaflet, which showed that there were fewer birds after Christmas than before, although the spatial distribution remained much the same. Such supplementary maps would not be possible without regular counts from the same squares throughout the winter. (One visit to a square every 2 or 3 weeks is very adequate for this.) Therefore nobody need feel left out. Total coverage has not been evenly spread. Nearly everywhere has a few blank squares but the main areas needing more visits are north-west Scotland and parts of Ireland and we shall be making a special effort to cover as many of these as possible this winter. We hope that many people will be able to get to some as yet uncovered squares. A map of these and a full list were published in the supplement to the September issue of BTO News, which is available from local organisers, the BTO or the SOC office. However, in order to ensure the most efficient use of everybody’s time, do please contact the local organiser before you visit an area, for an up-to-date report. Also, and this is very important, please tell him/her immediately afterwards what you were able to do, so that records can be updated. There is a lot to do but with your help we can complete the job. With the final result we shall certainly know a vast amount more about birds in winter than we do now. PETER LACK LETTER Dear Editor,— Brazil and Spray (Scot. Birds 12: 226) say that evidence from Scotland suggests that the clutch size figures given in Vol. 1 of Birds of the Western Palaearctic for the Whooper Swan in Iceland are too low. This is indeed likely to be so if 1983 LETTER 269 those who collected the data summarised in B.W.P. were unaware of the common Icelandic practice of taking a few eggs from the nests of ducks, geese and swans, either to eat or to rear the young. A great many clutch records from Ice- land are faulty for this reason. R. S. R. FITTER PALLAS’S WARBLER B. Zonfrillo The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club REPORT OF COUNCIL For Year to 30 June 1983 General The past year has been one of change; in particular change in the financial position of the club, the editor of Scottish Birds, and the staff at 21 Regent Terrace. Full details of these and other matters which have been dealt with by your council and its committees are reported below. March 1986 will mark the jubilee of the foundation of our club and council has already formed a golden jubilee committee to consider and plan ways of commemorating this anniversary. Membership On 30 June 1983 the club had 2765 members. This shows a net decrease of 171 from last year, or 6% in a year when subscriptions were increased. A loss of around 10% is more usual in such a year and a smaller than average loss is an encouraging sign for the future. 316 new members joined, 11 fewer than last year; 258 were adults, 46 juniors and 12 nominated for family membership. 7 existing members transferred to life membership and two were elected to honorary membership. 322 paid the reduced rate for pensioners. In the table, family members are counted as two people; nominated children pay no subscription. 270 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(8) Year to 30 June 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 Honorary 1 1 5 6 6 7 Life 49 51 58 62 84 91 Ordinary 2572 2357 2387 2555 2570 2420 Junior 271 211 208 211 195 181 Nominated children 87 82 74 80 82 66 2980 2702 2732 2914 2936 2765 +34 —278 +30 +182 +22 —I171 Covenants The revenue from covenants naturally increased with the higher subscription rates, and emphasises their considerable value to club funds. The peng of covenants increased from 717 to 822 representing 933 members. Honorary members Council conferred honorary membership on two mem- bers; Sandy Anderson for his long service to the club in the Aberdeen area, and Mrs Ruby Smillie on her retirement as membership secretary for over 20 years. Finance This has been an encouraging year with income exceeding ex- penditure by £9000. Income from subscriptions and covenants was up, and the bookshop produced a greater surplus than had been anticipated. The annual raffle brought in more than last year and, although the sale of Scottish Birds was less, the actual cost of production was reduced al- though this year no index was published. George Waterston Memorial Fund During the year council made a grant of £750 from this fund to the Isle of May Bird Observatory Committee towards the cost of repairing traps on the island. The hides donated to the RSPB and SWT were both formally opened by Mrs Irene Waterston at functions arranged by those organisations. Members have already visited them and commented on the pleasure these new hides have given to them and other visiting birdwatchers A report was published in Scottish Birds 12: 139. Branches The usual full series of lectures took place at our 13 branches during the winter, and both winter and summer excursions were arranged locally. Council once again records its appreciation to the speakers who gave their time to lecture, and to those members who led excursions in many parts of the country. We much appreciate the time they spend helping other club members, and in particular those who have recently joined or are new to birdwatching. Their contribution goes a long way to foster the spirit of friendliness which characterises SOC activities. Annual conference The 35th annual conference, and 46th annual general meeting, was once again held at the Marine Hotel, North Berwick. It was again fully subscribed with over 300 members and friends attending at some time during the weekend. An account was published in Scottish Birds 12: 169. Scottish Birds and the Scottish Bird Report At the 1982 annual general meeting it was announced that Miss Valerie Thom had agreed to take over as editor of Scottish Birds, a post which she had held in a temporary capacity as chairman of the editorial committee since the summer of that year. This committee was enlarged during the year when Mr Donald Smith agreed to become its photographic advisor and Dr lain Taylor agreed to become a member. Mr Stan da Prato is to edit the Index to Volume 12, and suitable arrangements have been made for material to reach him in the Falkland Islands where he is at present in a temporary teaching job. During the year four issues of the journal were published with 140 pages of text and 16 plates. 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 271 Problems with preparation of the 1981 Scottish Bird Report delayed publication until March 1983. Its editor has put forward proposals to council regarding the future editing of the report in an endeavour to avoid this delay. He would edit the SBR with three assistants, and these four, together with two or three others, would constitute a re-formed Scottish Bird Records Committee as there is now a need for Scottish records to be examined in Scotland. Approval of these proposals has been given in principle, but details are still being considered by council. Research and fieldwork Various research projects have been supported by members during the year, including the final summer of the Wader Breed- ing Survey organised in Scotland by Hector Galbraith and Bob Furness, and the BTO/Wildfowl Trust 1983 Mute Swan Survey for which the Scottish organisers are Allan and Lyndesay Brown. Support was also given during the second year of the three year Winter Atlas Survey organised by the BTO, and to its Common Bird Census and Nest Record Scheme. The RSPB beached bird survey and the Wildfowl Trust’s goose and winter wildfowl counts continue to receive help. Lists of Scottish local organisers for the principal surveys and counts, and the SOC Local Recorders for the SBR, are published in Scottish Birds. Council records its appreciation to all these members for their dedication and hard work, and in particular to those who take on the work involved in organising a national survey. Conservation (i) Members learned that the application to develop ski-ing facilities in the Cairngorms had been turned down by the Secretary of State for Scotland. (ii) A letter was sent to the Minister responsible for the Department of the Environment expressing concern that the appoint- ment of the new inspector under the 1982 Wildlife and Countryside Act should in any way be linked with the British Field Sports Society. A reply had been received which did not entirely satisfy your council, and the matter had been reported to the 1982 annual general meeting. Members had supported council’s action, and agreed that the situation should be reviewed when the inspector had been in office for a year. (iii) Letters had also been sent to the Shetland Islands Council. One expressed concern at the proposed mink farm on the island of Trondra, and another on as- pects of consultation between the SIC and conservation organisations. This was with particular regard to the award of grants made under the Shetland Islands 10 Year Plan for Agriculture for schemes which might conflict with conservation interests. (iv) A letter had been sent to the Lothian Regional Council expressing concern at the extension of fishing, with the consequent disturbance to roosting geese, in the West Water Reservoir, Peeblesshire, which comes under that Region’s jurisdiction. While all three letters had been acknowledged, no decisions had been reached or conveyed to us. Endowment Fund From the interest in this fund, which was increased substantially by the Gunn bequest reported last year, almost £2000 was given in grants to assist ornithological research. Applications for grants are considered by the research committee, which then makes recommen- dations to council. The number of applications has been increasing, and during the year Hector Galbraith, John Love and Mick Marquiss accepted an invitation to join the committee and assist with this task. The council records its appreciation to Dr Iain Taylor and his research committee for their work in preparing recommendations for grant, which are put to council for a decision at its meeting in March. Short reports are required from all recipients of a grant; those for 1982 were published in Scottish Birds 12:195. This year 17 applications were received and 11 grants, totalling £1920, were awarded. The largest sum, £500, was given to the Wader Study Group towards the costs of an important survey to establish a baseline for wader populations in the Western Isles, prior to implementation of the 272 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(8) Integrated Development Plan for the islands. The grants awarded for specific projects were : £200 to Ron Summers for further work on winter wader populations in Orkney; £200 to Chris Spray for work on Mute Swan movements in east Scotland; £150 to Graham Rebecca for his con- tinuing study of Merlins in Grampian Region; £75 to Brian Etheridge towards his work on breeding waders in a specific area of the Outer Heb- rides, which complements the work of the WSG; £75 to Bob Swann and Andrew Ramsay for their long-term seabird studies on Canna; £50 to Bob Swann for a Buzzard survey in Glenurquhart; £50 to Iain Gibson for his study of Yellow Wagtails in the Clyde area; £50 to Mike Nicoll for continuing Heron studies in east Scotland; and £40 to Sandy Payne for work on the breeding success of Golden Eagles in Grampian and east Tayside. The Greenland White-fronted Goose Study Group received a grant of £200 towards its summer study of this species; when the Group’s 1983 expedition had to be postponed, authority was given for the grant to be retained for use in 1984, failing which it would be refunded. The other grants given were £250 towards the BTO’s Winter Atlas costs (which it is understood will be spent in Scotland), and £80 to the Wader Bee sine Survey, a club-supported project now in its final year of field- work. Waterston Library Sums received from the sale of books bequeathed to the club but already in the library, together with the allocation from general funds, enabled the programme of binding current and back num- bers of journals to continue, as well as the purchase of important new books. Council records its gratitude to donors of books and journals, which are either taken into the library or sold in the interest of main- taining the Waterston Library collection and its high reputation as a source of ornithological reference. Bookshop Sales of £125,000 showed an increase of 40% over last year. This was largely due to the publication of three high priced good selling books. We are indebted to the Wild Bird Society of Japan for granting us the European selling rights of the English edition of Birds of Japan for the first year of its publication. Once again a selection of books was taken to the BTO annual conference at Swanwick, and council acknow- ledges this invitation with gratitude. A large number of overseas visitors, and customers, called into the bookshop during the year; its reputation for service is much appreciated judging by letters and comments re- ceived. Special credit must be paid to the members of the bookshop staff who, under considerable pressure and shortage of staff during the sum- mer of 1982, managed to maintain the output of extra sales and _ this service to customers. Scottish Centre 21 Regent Terrace continued to attract birdwatchers visiting Scotland; several touring groups were welcomed during the year in addition to the usual postal enquiries. Meetings of council and _ its committees were held in the building, as were those of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust and the Isle of May Bird Observatory and Field Station committees. The Edinburgh branch held its Discussion Group and Library Evening meetings in the Centre during the winter. Club representation Three members continued to represent the club on outside committees, for which council records its thanks. Bede Pounder is a member of the Duck Working Group of the International Wildfowl Research Bureau, and Frank Hamilton and Dr Derek Langslow are mem- bers of the British Section of the International Council for Bird Preser- vation. Staff This year has seen a comparatively large change in the staff. Miss Maureen Doran was welcomed in October 1982 as the new Bookshop Manager and Assistant Secretary. At the end of May 1983, Mrs Ruby Smillie retired after more than 20 years service to the club; reference to 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 273 this was made in Scottish Birds 12: 173 and in the autumn 1983 journal when notice about her honorary membership and retiral party was given. In this report council records its appreciation for all her work and dedi- cation to many aspects of the club’s affairs, with gratitude. We were very fortunate in the appointment of Miss Pat Webster as membership secretary in her place, bringing experience in this field from similar work with the Scottish Wildlife Trust for some years in the late 1970s. Mr Alasdair MacKay, who was on the part-time staff, left at the end of April 1983 with our good wishes for the future. In the bookshop Mrs Hetty Harper retired in May 1983 after over eight years service. While wishing her well in ‘retirement’, council records its thanks to her for her service to the club, and to the bookshop and its customers in particular. During the summer of 1983, Mr Peter Bell, a club member, worked full-time from April until late August, and Mrs Betty Bellamy, also a club member, joined the part-time staff of the bookshop in May 1983. We welcome them both. Acknowledgments The annual report of council always ends with a note of thanks to many members who give so much of their time to serve on committees of the club and its branches, lead excursions, arrange meetings, compile records, organize surveys, and help in many other ways to ensure the continued success of the club. This sincerely expressed appreciation to club members is linked with our thanks to all the mem- bers of staff who have served the club cheerfully and unstintingly over the past years. We offer our good wishes to those who have left and a warm welcome to those who have joined us. For the Council, IVAN T. DRAPER, President THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Revenue Account for year ended 30 June 1983 Year to Year to INCOME 30/6/83 30/6/82 Subscriptions, including transfer from Life Membership Fund ais ... £18096 £12963 Income Tax on Covenanted Subscriptions sis sah 2234 1750 Dividends and Interest (Gross 566 785 793 Gross surplus on Bookshop (sales £125138)* ... 30416 22036 Advertising ea ae Birds” ‘ sae 1341 1501 Sale of “Scottish Birds” : 6 ies ax 768 877 Sundry Sales ves aes oats dee Gat 8 50 Donations tite oe see oe ee aie 262 150 Raffle esis ib sais ed dies as 802 667 £54712 £40787 EXPENDITURE ——— ——— Branch Expenses including lectures ane ... £1878 £1628 Travel Expenses for council members and delegates to conferences Sa aie ae 579 896 Secretarial and editorial expenses... Bae ... 29436 27694 Office Expenses 3 3329 3071 Scottish Centre for Ornithology & Bird Protection 3435 3931 Library books and binding... a Lat 200 251 Publishing “Scottish Birds”... ie ete 5782 6226 Publishing 1981 Scottish Bird Report. be asi 737 760 Expenses in production of 1981 SBR £110 Less contribution from ‘Scottish Birds” Appeal Fund £110 274 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(8) Loss on conference : sas sais aes 110 117 Subscriptions to other Societies BS re oa 100 85 V.A.T. not reclaimable , an a ae 84 68 45670 44727 Excess of Income over Expenditure he te 9042 (3940) £54712 £40787 *This does not take account of salaries for bookshop staff, or other overheads. Balance Sheet as at 30 June 1983 Yearto Year to 30/6/83 30/6/82 FUNDS OF THE CLUB Accumulated surplus from picvous = see ... £7167 £11107 Add surplus for year he om: 9042 (3940) 16209 7167 Life Membership Fund aoe ce bug 6093 6019 “Scottish Birds” Appeal Fund he ae a 1134 1244 Library Fund sive oie nr 450 685 George Waterston Memorial Fund tes a2 1917 5052 REPRESENTED BY Cash in hand and at Bank Pie ... £1879 £1464 Dunfermline Building Society ‘shares — sik aa 4429 5861 Bookshop Stock age ais ... 23368 21167 Tie badge and car sticker stock ie a ae 466 545 Debts due to Club. : ass es ce 7228 3891 Investments at cost as below. fie mi Xe 2506 2506 39876 3543 Less Subscriptions paid in advance a £50 109 Debts due by Club sae ee .. 13153 14128 Due to Endowment Funds 370 1030 Grant allocated from George Waterston Memorial Fund not yet taken up ae 500 — 14073 15267 TOTAL NET ASSETS sale wer Lad ae ... £25803 £20167 Investments as at 30 June 1983 oe Market At At value cost cost Safeguard Industrial Investments : 875 shares of 25p each .. £1164 £508 £508 £2100 - 10% Exonedier Stock 1983 ost 2100 1998 1998 £3264 £2506 £2506 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 275 Endowment Fund (The free income of which is available for the advancement of ornithology) Revenue Account for year ended 30 June 1983 Yearto Year to INCOME 30/6/83 30/6/82 Interest and Dividends received (gross) ... ... £1647 £1537 EXPENDITURE Grants as detailed in Report of Council ... ane 1920 1665 Excess of expenditure for year vie axe lea £273 £128 Balance Sheet as at 30 June 1983 Endowment Fund as at 30/6/82 sai ass .. £11711 £6061 Add Legacy received during year... ae wae 100 5650 11811 11711 Accumulated revenue as at peetee ma its 2564 2692 General No. 2 Account “ee as tee 9972 10055 24347 24458 Less Excess of Expenditure for year ae s6i 273 128 £24074 £24330 Made up of: ———— Investments at cost as below .. £3063 £3063 Dunfermline Building ee Capital ‘Account... 6907 6907 General No. 1 Account ax 4504 3677 General No. 2 Account oe ise oat ieee 9520 9853 Due by Club’s general funds ... baw ad pee 470 1030 24464 24530 Less Grants allocated but not yet paid we ae 390 200 Investments as at 30 June 1983 = Market At At value cost cost £1220 - 94% Treasury Stock 1983 ... £1220 £1140 £1140 £352 - British Printing & Communication 74% Non Cumulative Preferences Shares £1 243 353 353 500 St Andrew Trust Ordinary 25p : 1225 570 570 1952 M & G Equity Investment for Charities 4156 1000 1000 £6844 £3063 £3063 EDINBURGH, 6th September, 1983.—I have audited the foregoing Revenue Accounts for the year ended 30 June 1983 and the Balance Sheets at that date. I have accepted as correct subscriptions and other receipts shown as received in the books, the value placed on the bookshop stock and the amounts due by debtors and to creditors. Subject to the foregoing, I certify that in my opinion the accounts are correctly stated and sufficiently vouched. (Signed) ROBERT CAVEN, Chartered Accountant. 276 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(8). COUNCIL AND OFFICIALS OF THE CLUB FOR SESSION 47 Hon. Presidents Sir Charles G. Connell WS, LL D, FRSE; Sir Arthur B. Duncan; W. J. Eggeling, CBE, BSc, PhD, FRSE; Professor V. C. Wynne- Edwards CBE, LL D, MA, D Sc, D Univ, FRS, FRSC, FRSE, F I Biol. President Dr Ivan T. Draper Vice-President John M. S. Arnott. Law Agent D. G. Andrew WS. Editor Miss V. M. Thom. Hon. Treasurer and Librarian W. G. Harper. Council (elected at AGM) R. A. Broad, A. W. Brown, Dr D. M. Bryant, D. L. Clugston, R. W. Forrester, Dr J. J. D. Greenwood, Dr R. Hissett, M. B. Ross, B. J. Stewart, Dr I. R. Taylor. Young members (elected by Council) I. Macleod and A. Wood. Branch Representatives (elected by their Branch) B. J. Stewart (Aber- deen); Dr R. Hissett (Ayr); M. B. Ross (Borders); R. T. Smith (Dumfries); Dr K. M. Watson (Dundee); P. R. G. Marriott (Edinburgh); Dr J. T. Knowler (Glasgow); R. A. Broad (Inverness); P. K. Kinnear (St An- drews); C. E. Barth (Stirling). STAFF Secretary and Treasurer Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe (to 31.12.83) J. C. Davies (from 1.1.84). Bookshop Manager, Assistant Secretary and Business Editor Miss M. R. Doran. Membership Secretary Miss P. J. Webster. Bookshop and Clerical Mrs D. J. Ridley, Mrs H. Paterson, Miss I. R. MacLenann. BRANCH OFFICE-BEARERS Aberdeen Chairman, S. M. D. Alexander; Vice-Chairman, L. Steele; Sec- retary, D. J. Bain; Committee, S. T. Buckland, A. Duncan, J. A. England, Miss M. C. Hartnoll, W. G. D. Henrickson. Ayr Chairman, Dr R. Hissett; Vice-Chairman, ————————-, Secretary, B. C. Forrester; Committee, Mrs J. Burton, Mrs E. M. Hissett, Major N. A. D. McCance, G. Riddle. Borders Chairman and Secretary, M. B. Ross; Vice-Chairman, A. J. Smith; Committee, A. Buckham, T. D. Dobson, R. D. Murray, Mrs E. Ross. Dumfries Chairman, Dr E. C. Fellowes; Vice-Chairman, Mrs B. Mearns; Secretary, J. W. Barclay; Committee, Mrs M. Johnson-Ferguson, T. Shannan, R. T. Smith, R. M. Wright. Dundee Chairman, B. Pounder; Vice-Chairman, F. V. Ellmore; Secretary, Dr K. M. Watson; Committee, B. Boag, Miss S. Laing, Mrs A. Noltie. Edinburgh Chairman, P. W. G. Marriott; Vice-Chairman, W. G. Prest; Secretary, Miss J. A. Wilcox; Committee, G. F. Bell, Mrs P. D. Black, Mrs M. L. Brown, Mrs E. Ferro. Glasgow Chairman, Dr J. T. Knowler; Vice-Chairman, Dr I. T. Draper; Secretary, S. N. Denney; Committee, Dr R. W. Furness, H. Galbraith, I. P. Gibson. Inverness Chairman, R. L. Swann; Vice-Chairman, R. A. Broad; Secretary, Mrs S. E. A, More; Committee, J. Carruthers, R. H. Dennis, S. C. Dun- net, Miss M. I. MacDougall, I. A. Wylie. New Galloway Chairman, Mrs H. S. C. Halliday; Vice-Chairman, Admiral Sir Nigel Henderson; Secretary, Miss J. E. Howie; Committee, Miss M. 1983 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 277 McClymont, R. K. Peace, A. D. Watson, Mrs J. Yeo. St Andrews Chairman, P. K. Kinnear; Vice-Chairman, Lt. Cdr. E. F. B. Spragge; Secretary, Miss D. E. Rowling; Committee, D. Dickson, Mrs W. E. Mattingley, D. R. Stewart, Dr I. M. Strachan. Stirling Chairman, C. E. Barth; Vice-Chairman, Dr C. J. Henty; Secretary, D. Thorogood; Committee, W. R. Brackenridge, Rev. J. M. Crook, Miss M. H. Knox, R. J. Young. Thurso Chairman, G. Crittenden; Secretary, E. Maughan. Wigtown Chairman, Dr P. G. Hopkins; Secretary, G. Sheppard; Com- mittee, J. H. Hollands, D. L. Irving, D. J. Mould, D. J. Rennie, G. Shaw. COMMITTEES Management Dr I. T. Draper (Chairman), D. G. Andrew, J. M. S. Arnott, D. L. Clugston, B. J. Stewart. EipeaLy. D. L. Clugston arate Ritchie Seath (Hon. Librarian), Dr J. D. Greenwood, P. W. G. Marriott, Dr I. D, Pennie, Mrs M. I. Wat- ae Editorial Miss V. M. Thom (Chairman), J. M. S. Arnott, R. H. Dennis, Dr R. W. Furness, F. D. Hamilton, S. R. D. da Prato, D. A. Smith, Dr I. R. Taylor. Research Dr I. R. Taylor (Chairman), A. W. Colling, R. H. Dennis, H. Galbraith, Dr J. J. D. Greenwood, Dr D. R. Langslow, J. A. Love, M. Marquiss. Scottish Bird Records R. H. Dennis (Chairman), R. A. Broad, A. Brown, P. M. Ellis, R. H. Hogg, Dr B. Marshall, B. Zonfrillo. CLUB REPRESENTATION British Section, International Council for Bird Preservation : F. D. Hamil- ton, Dr D. R. Langslow. international Wildfowl Research Bureau, Duck Working Group: B. Poun- er. HONORARY MEMBERS A. Anderson, Dr John Berry, Maxwell Hamilton, Dr Ian Pennie, Mrs R. D. Smillie, Mrs Irene Waterston, Donald Watson. SCOTTISH BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE This re-formed committee will start operating from 1 January 1984, and will be responsible for checking all records of species that are rare in Scotland but are not on the BBRC rarities list. Roy Dennis will chair the committee, the other members of which are to be Roger Broad, Alan Brown (Longniddry), Pete Ellis, Angus Hogg, Brian Marshall and Bernard Zonfrillo. One of the first tasks of the committee will be to draw up a list of “Scottish semi-rarities” for the benefit of local recorders. LOCAL RECORDER Please note the following changes : East Lothian A. Brown, 23 Kings Court, Longniddry, East Lothian. He would welcome records sent to him either monthly or quarterly. PHOTOGRAPHIC AND SOUND ARCHIVE A suggestion was made at the council meeting in March that the club should maintain a collection of photographs, tapes and slides in the 278 THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB 12(8) Waterston Library for use by members. This material would be properly catalogued and lists made available to branch secretaries. Any members of the club prepared to donate items suitable for the collection are asked to forward them to the secretary at 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT. The collection would become an integral part of the Waterston Library. EDINBURGH BRANCH IMPORTANT NOTICE Change of venue Tuesday meetings from 7 Feb- ruary 1984 will be held in the Heriot-Watt building, Chambers Street (opposite the Royal Scottish Museum). Trip to Majorca 28 April-12 May 1984. Details from Peter Marriott (031 556 4104). Approx. cost £322. Recent Reports These notes include unchecked reports and are not intended as a perman- ent record, nor will they be indexed. Please send reports to Pete Ellis, 17 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh via local recorders, at the end of March, June, September and December. The period July to September is covered here. The wet spring was followed by a very dry summer and this variable weather affected the breeding success of several raptors. Golden eagles generally had a poor season although those in the west fared slightly better than eastern pairs. Peregrines in the north and east suffered from the bad spring weather but this had little effect on central and southern pairs, for which 1983 was unfortunately the worst year on record for nest robberies, with at least 46 nests believed robbed. Merlins showed a mixed picture of success but site occupation appeared to be particularly low in the north east. Birders interested in scarce and rare migrants seem to be generally out of luck this year. Shetland remained consistent and followed one of its worst ever springs for grounded migrants with one of its worst ever autumns; however there were one or two bright spots to the autumn and some exceptional birds. In August and September a series of deep depressions crossed the At- lantic and produced some notable bird movements. A great shearwater was off Balranald on 31 July and large numbers of sooty shearwaters appeared from mid-August onwards, with 320 seen passing Papa Westray, and a flock of 2,300 in the Moray Firth in mid- September. Six Manx shearwaters were found blown inland in the High- lands and single Balearic shearwaters (P. p. mauretanicus) passed Turn- berry on 3rd and 19th September. 34 Leach’s petrels passed Turnberry on 5th September and one was off Barns Ness on 29th. During August, pomarine skuas were seen at many sea watching points, the largest number being 7 off Hound Point in the Firth of Forth, and 45 long-tailed skuas passed Papa Westray. Pink-footed geese arrived early at Loch Ken, with 54 on 24th August. Unusual ducks included a garganey at Drem in August, a blue-winged teal on Unst in September, and a ring-necked duck in Shetland in September (when Sumburgh Head had a female king eider), and a female smew again summered on the Clyde. An osprey was found shot in East Lothian in 1983 RECENT REPORTS 279 July and hobbies appeared at Aberlady in August and Barns Ness and the Eden Estuary in September. There was a quail on the Isle of May in September and spotted crakes at Morton Lochs and North Ronaldsay, whilst a fine adult crane summered in Orkney. Waders, too, produced quite a lot of interest. A strong passage of little stints in mid-September saw 63 at Tyninghame, 50 at Virkie, 23 at Meikle Loch, 20 in Orkney and 18 at Stranraer; this contrasted sharply with the few reports of curlew sandpipers. Other notables were lesser golden plovers on South Uist in July and Fair Isle in August, a Tem- minck’s stint on the scrape at Vane Farm and 2 white-rumped sandpipers at Aberlady in August, and several pectoral sandpipers in September, with at least 3 in Shetland, 1 in Orkney, 1 at Nigg Bay and 1 at Tyninzghame. South Uist had a spotted sandpiper in July, while a lone buff-breasted sandpiper graced Mull, Fair Isle produced a great snipe, Orkney a long- billed dowitcher and Doonfoot a grey phalarope in September. Orkney was exceptional for Sabine’s gulls with 1 on 27th August and 3 on 5th September, when one also passed Turnberry; a juvenile was at Sandness, Shetland in late September. A good spread of black terns produced singles at Loch of Kinnordy in July, Girdleness, Skateraw and Barns Ness in August with 6 at Barns Ness on 24th August, and singles off Ballantrae and North Ronaldsay in September. Early little auks were off the Isle of May and North Ronaldsay in September. The bird of my autumn so far performed in Shetland, for 3 days a week apart, in September. This was Britain’s first hawk owl since 1966 and Scotland’s first this century. Rumour has it one twitcher flew from Lon- don twice only to “dip out’! An immature roller was seen near Biggar in August and a fine adult spent part of September on Islay. Three sightings of a hoopoe in Orkney may all have been the same bird. Among other uncommon species repor- ted in small numbers were: Wrynecks, Out Skerries, Isle of May and Fair Isle; Richard’s pipits on Fair Isle and North Ronaldsay in September, when a citrine wagtail was also on the latter; Siberian stonechat at Fife Ness; 3 Icterine warblers in Shetland, 2 in Orkney and 1 at Barns Ness in September and 1 on Fair Isle in August; single melodious warblers in Shetland and Orkney; and a moulting sub-alpine warbler, which had pro- bably summered, in Shetland in July. Barred warblers were relatively scarce, with a maximum of only 5 on Fair Isle in September, single greenish warblers were on Out Skerries and Barns Ness in August, Arctic warblers appeared on Fair Isle and Orkney in September, and a Bonelli’s warbler was in Lerwick from 26th September till October. The only re- ported yellow-browed warbler was at Dunbar on 2nd September. A fall of golderests in late September was not on the scale of October 1982, though their distribution was similar with 22 on Fair Isle, 100 on North Ronaldsay, 3000 on the isle of May and 300 at St Abbs. The most notable of the remaining reports was of a spectacular influx of snow buntings on 29th September which produced dancing white clouds of 150 on Out Skerries and over 1000 on Fetlar on 29th September. Please note: I have been asked to request birdwatchers to respect the privacy of local residents at Fife Ness. This is a rather sensitive area and birders should take special care to avoid upsetting the people who live there. PETE ELLIS 280 STOP PRESS 12(8) Stop Press Late October saw the most serious oiling incident recorded on the west coast since the war, with around 3,000 dead birds ashore on the Inner Hebrides and many more alive but badly oiled. Roger Broad, who has been investigating the incident, reported at the end of the month that some 1500 had been found on Tiree and over 1000 on Coll. Skye and the Small Isles, Mull and Ardnamurchan were also affected, though not so seriously. On Tiree 1160+ Guillemot corpses had been counted, with several hundred other auks (among which 32 Tysties probably represented the most serious local loss), 20 Eiders 9 Great Northern Divers, and a few other seabirds. Many Ringed Plovers and Sanderlings are on the Tiree beaches at this season and these too pete been affected, with some Sanderlings so stained that they look like Dunlins. Sone THRUSH’ A. Dowell Without Comment! The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has bought 3,000 acres of Islay, the most important wintering and breeding area in northern Europe for the barnacle goose and other declining international species. —The Courier and Advertiser, November 2, 1983 DYYOYOPDIOH 9H Hx NEW GALLOWAY “Cairn Edward” a) Situated in its own grounds, adjacent to Loch Ken, on the A762. Open all the year. Win- ter terms: Dinner, B/B £13; packed lunches available. oJ PHONE New Galloway 244 RARAARAAAAA COME TO ORKNEY IN 1984 The Friendly Isles Leave the north coast of Scot- land and enter an ornithologist’s Paradise ! (It is also a wonder world for archaeology, botany, angling and many other quiet pursuits). For more details, and accommo- dation lists, write to: ORKNEY ’84 (SB), Whiston, Sandwick, Stromness, Orkney, KW16 3LW, with large SAE, min. 40p, please. Stromness & W. Mainland of Orkney Tourist Association for Personal Attention to your Holiday Needs THE BIRD BOOKSHOP Scottish Ornithologists’ Club Dept. 7, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT. Phone 031-556-6042 Worldwide selection of books on ornithology and related topics. Our stock of over 600 titles covers all levels from amateur to professional and includes other natural history books. Orders of £10 or more are sent post free to mem- bers provided membership is stated. For a free 30 page booklist write to the above address or phone (Mon-Fri 9-1, 2-5) The Bird Bookshop makes a substantial contribu- tion to club income, so buy all your bird books from us and help keep subscriptions down. QQ ARR AR RRRARw Orkney Islands TAVERSOE HOTEL ROUSAY Our peaceful island hotel overlook- ing the sea makes an ideal centre oF cinichofa nists. Pi agree New Branch and, shore, cliffs and lochs attract = . 70 breeding species and many more in Edinbur gh migrators. Excellent walking and trout fishing. Close to excavated prehistoric sites including Mid [] Expert Service okihg broch and cairn. Brochure (J Binoculars IVAN & LOUISE OWEN, [] Telescopes TAVERSOE HOTEL, ROUSAY, [] Repairs ORKNEY See main advertisement Tel. 085682 325 for details. Ea ne ae eS THE SCOTTISH FIELD STUDIES ASSOCIATION LTD. Kindrogan Field Centre Birdwatching Courses 1984 KINDROGAN provides accommodation, lecture rooms laboratories and a library for visitors. Sit- uated in the Southern Grampian Highlands, it affords excellent opportunities for all aspects of field studies. BIRDS—a weekend course, John Edelsten May 11-13 SUMMER BIRDS—hills and lowlands. R. M. Ramage June 15-20 SCOTTISH BIRDS—a relaxed course. Paul Croft July 4-11 HOW BIRDS WORK—their biology. Ron Freethy July 18-25 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course. Ian Walker July 25-Aug 1 HIGHLAND BIRDS—a strenuous course. Ted Green July 25-Aug 1 BIRDS OF HILL AND GLEN—YOC course. Jim Flint Aug 8-15 AUTUMN BIRDS—winter visitors. Nicol Mutch Sept 28-Oct 5 AUTUMN BIRDS—winter visitors. Ron Youngman Oct 19-26 All applications and requests for information on these and other courses should be addressed to The Warden, Kindrogan Field Centre, Enochdhu, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 7PG. Tel. Strathardle (025 081) 286. S.a.e. appreciated. | CRIEFF HYDRO Hock | BIRD WATCHING AND WILDLIFE | HOLIDAY BREAKS: Discover the varied wildlife of Perthshire and Highland countryside under expert guidance. Two special inclusive breaks— Birdwatching Week 9-16 June and Wildlife Week-end 27-29 April 1983—feature in our super new colour holiday brochure. At other times use the Crieff Hydro Hotel and Chalets as the ideal base for discovering Scotland’s marvellous variety of Birds and Wildlife. Write to Dept SBI, _ Crieff Hydro Hotel, Crieff, Perthshire PH7 3LQ or telephone 0764 2401. BIRDWATCHING AFLOAT ON THE WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND on AVE YOU EVER THOUGHT of combining birdwatching with a sailing holiday on Scotland’s beautiful West Coast ? Large parts of this area are abundant in bird life, which accepts a yacht approaching quietly as part of the environment. SINBAD CHARTERS (Peter Waddington) runs skippered sailing holidays from Rhu Marina, near Helensburgh, in his 36 ft (8 berths including skipper) Westerly Medway Sloop ‘“‘Zamora’”’. The skipper will adjust to all, from the experienced sailor to the complete novice. You can plan your own cruise and go anywhere within the constraints of time and navigational safety—partici- pating in the sailing as much or as little as you want. FOR DETAILS, write enclosing s.a.e. to: Peter Waddington, Yacht “Zamora”, Rhu Marina, Nr. Helensburgh, Dunbarton- shire—or ring Rhu (0436) - 820160 (““Zamora” when in harbour) or 820123 (c/o Gareloch Charters when ‘Zamora’ is at sea). WAULKMILL LODGE Orkney Scottish Birds From Volume 1 No. 1 Autumn 1958 To Volume 6 No. 3 Autumn 1970 WITH INDEXES AND SUPPLEMENTS Unbound and in very good condition kK Offers to: J. OLIVER, Hospital Lodge, Golspie, Sutherland Holiday accommodation in secluded licensed Guesthouse overlooking Bay and adjoining Hobbister reserve. Central position for touring island and seeing bird specialities such as Hen Harrier, Red-throated Diver, etc. WAULKMILL LODGE, Waulkmill Bay, Orphir, Orkney Tel. Kirkwall (0856) 2427 Member of The Association of British Travel Agents Eighteen years’ service to naturalists and birdwatchers Holidays organised by Birdwatchers for Birdwatchers CHINA SPANISH PYRENEES ETHIOPIA YUGOSLAVIA SRI LANKA NE GREECE KENYA TURKEY INDIA BULGARIA CANARY ISLANDS ANDORRA TUNISIA MOROCCO JORDAN VANCOUVER and LAKE NEUSIEDL THE ROCKIES HIGH ALPS SOUTH AFRICA THE CAMARGUE TANZANIA MAJORCA VIRGINIA, U.S.A. SW SPAIN Particulars and Programme sent on request LAWRENCE G. HOLLOWAY ORNITHOLIDAYS Dept. 4, 1/3 Victoria Drive, Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, PO21 2PW. Telephone 0243 821230 ATOL Licence No. 743 Situated not five minutes drive from the (A famous Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve “Ss THE MALLARD nestles on Guilane’s equally famous golf links. We are a family run hotel well experienced in the special needs of ornithologists and golfers alike. Why not come and spend a weekend or longer with us ? Let our area’s natural resources stimulate you by day whilst our fine table and cellar revive you from dusk. Log fires and candle light soothe all cares away. Special party rates. Ring 0620 843288 for details Aretie Birds JOIN an ERSKINE EXPEDITION in Jun/Jul/Aug and see such birds as Gyr Falcons, Snowy Owls, Arctic Red- polls, Sabine’s Gulls, Arctic animals such as Muskox, Walrus and Ermine, and many species of boreal flowers. Camping trips to 4 remote localities in Greenland, also Labrador, Rockies, Iceland and Alaska. Boat-based trip to Spitsbergen (80°N). Hotel-based trip to Siberia. Expert guides. £850 up. Nearer to home, take a thrilling boat-based tour round the Orkneys and Shetlands, June 9 to 20, £525. Send a stamp to: ERSKINE EXPEDITIONS 14 Inverleith Place, Edinburgh, and state your interest. Announcing publication of Charles Tunnicliffes finest work in a magnificent new volume Tunnicliffes Birds Measured drawings by CE Tinmiclife RA] with an introduction and commentary by Noel Cusa Eighty of the most remarkable and beautiful of the bird studies, the product of a life’s work, are reproduced in full colour to the highest standards of British printing technology. Each picture is accompanied with an explanatory text by Noel Cusa. Published on November 24th 1983 335 x 250mm 160pp 0575 031581 £75 N.B. A beautifully-bound limited edition is also available. Price : £275 | For a full-colour brochure and to order please contact | The Bird Bookshop, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT Tel: 031-556 6042 The Return of the Sea-Eagie JOHN LOVE This fascinating account of the re-introduction of the recently extinct white-tailed Sea Eagle to its former haunts in Scotland anticipates the bird’s first successful breeding in the wild. Dr Love, who has managed the Nature Conservancy’s programme of controlled releases on the Isle of Rum since 1975, provides a full description of the project illustrated by a generous selection of his own pen and ink drawings which vividly convey the wild landscape of Rum and the majesty of this remarkable bird. The Shelduck A Study in Behavioural Ecology 1. J. PATTERSON Taking the shelduck as its principal example, this enterprising book considers how an animal’s behaviour helps it survive and reproduce inahostile environment. £27.50 net £15.00 net Perspectives in Ornithology Essays presented for the Centennial of the American Ornithologists’ Union Edited by ALAN H. BRUSH and GEORGE A. CLARK Jr. A wide-ranging survey containing essays by thirty leading authorities on all aspects of bird life. The topics examined range from song, navigation and breeding biology to pataeontology, biogeography, ecology, and conservation. £20.00 net Darwin's Finches DAVID LACK Edited by PETER BOAG and LAURENE RATCLIFFE First published in 1947, this study of the finches of the Galapagos Islands is now recognised as a masterpiece of evolutionary biology. The present reissue contains supplementary material bringing Lack’s findings up to date and newly-originated plates in both black . white and colour. a Pore: F F F ard covers £19.50 net Cambridge Science Classics Paperback £7.95 net CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS Walter Thomson, Printer, Selkirk | Vol. 12 INDEX 281 INDEX TO VOLUME 12 The index is in three parts : Contents, Plates and Species. The Scottish Bird Reports are paged separately and are not indexed. Contents MAIN PAPERS Seabird movements around western Islay (K. Verrall & W. R. P. Bourne) 3-11. The breeding seasons of British Puffins (M. P. Harris) 11-17. Birdwatching on the Clyde islands, part II (J. A. Gibson) 17-22. Fledging success of some Red-throated Divers in Orkney (C. J. Booth) 33-38. Wintering coastal waders of Lewis and Harris (N. E. Buxton) 38-43. Isle ot MAY bird observatory and field station report for 1981 (B. Zonfrillo) 43-49. Harvie-Brown, a profile (J. A. Love) 49-53. The abundance and feeding distribution of Clyde Estuary shorebirds (J. B. Halliday et al) 65-72. Observations and food of Hen Harriers at a winter roost in Orkney (N. Picozzi & M. F. Cuthbert) 73-80. Birdwatching at St Abb’s Head (S. R. D. da Prato) 81-85. Breeding status of the Crested Tit (M. J. H. Cook) 97-106. Wintering waders on the Atlantic shores of the Uists and Benbecula (N. E. Buxton) 106-113. Birdwatching in Sutherland (I. D. Pennie) 113-117. Status and sex ratio of Pochard wintering at Edinburgh (P. A. R. Hockey) 143-148. Breeding waders on agricultural land (H. Galbraith & R. W. Furness) 148-153. Birdwatching in Lewis and Harris (W. A. J. Cunningham) 154-157. Seabird populations of the Isle of May (M. P. Harris & H. Galbraith) 174- 180. Breeding waders of the Caithness flows (T. M. Reed, D. R. Langslow & F. L. Symonds) 180-186. Birdwatching in the Eighties - Fair Isle (N. Riddiford) 186-190. Winter wader populations on the open shores of northern Scotland (R. W. Summers & N. E. Buxton) 206-211. The status of the Raven in southern Scotland and Northumbria (R. Mearns) 211-218. Isle of May bird observatory and field station report for 1982 (B. Zonfrillo) 218-224. The status of the Chough in Scotland (J. M. Warnes) 238-246. 282 INDEX Vol. 12 The phenomenal migrant fall of October 1982 (P. Ellis) 246-251. Birdwatching in the Moorfoots (R. W. J. Smith) 252-255. SHORT NOTES Fulmars trapped on building (D. Macdonald) 22. Mistle Thrush carrying mammal (T. W. Dougall) 22-23. Change of Crow hybrid zone in Kincardineshire (N. Picozzi) 23-24. Predation of birds by pine martens (R. L. Swann) 53-54. ven a Golden Eagle & Peregrine in NE Scotland in 1981 (A. Watson) Movements of a Greenshank chick (M. L. P. Thompson) 56-57. Response of Storm Petrels to call of other species (B. Zonfrillo) 85-86. A new colony of Leach’s Petrels (J. A. Fowler & C. J. Butler) 86-87. Elusive Chiffchaffs (A. W. Brown & R. W. J. Smith) 87-88. Merlin apparently preying on common frog (G. Rebecca) 89. Persistent predators (R. Parr) 89-90. Exceptional proximity of two pairs of nesting Merlins (J. N. Dymond) 90. Storm Petrels attacked by Peregrine (E. Maguire) 118. Common Tern attacking Little Tern chick (A. J. Clunas) 119. Inland colonies of Lesser Black-backed Gulls (P. W. Sandeman) 119-120. St Kilda Gannets in 1980 (S. Wanless & V. E. Wood) 120-121. ‘Work on Golden Eagle & Peregrine in NE Scotland in 1982 (S. Payne & A. Watson) 159-162. Golden Eagle interaction with roe deer and fox (I. McLeod et al) 162. Cuckoo eating young amphibians (D. McDougall) 162-163. Cormorant eating lesser octopus (B. Zonfrillo) 163-164. pote ici and breeding in the Central Grampians (P. S. Thompson) Successful breeding of Brambling in Inverness-shire (R. H. Bucknall) 191- 193. High rise Willow Warbler (K. Brockie) 193. Non-breeding territorial aggression by Peregrine (E. F. B. Spragge) 193. Fledgling Merlins catching moths (R. C. Dickson) 194. Petrels and predators (W. R. P. Bourne) 194. Osprey taking up wing-stretch posture (K. Duncan & I. McLeod) 194. The Ailsa Craig Gannetry in 1982 (S. Murray & S. Wanless) 225-226. Large clutch and brood size of Whooper Swans (M. A. Brazil & C. J. Spray) 226-227. Unnatural mortality of Red-throated Divers (N. E. Buxton) 227-228. The Fulmars of Holyrood Park, Edinburgh (A. W. Brown) 228-229. The Crested Tit on Deeside (A. Knox) 255-258. A trio of Magpies (G. E. Simpson, J. D. Simpson & W. R. P. Bourne) 258. Franklin’s Gull in Ayrshire (D. L. Clugston) 258-259. Golden Eagle alarm calls (D. Jenkins) 259. Song flighting Mistle Thrush (D. Jenkins) 259. Redwings in a Highland glen (R. L. Swann) 260-261. Vol. 12 INDEX 283 CURRENT NOTES & RECENT RE- a 30, 63, 140, 171, 203, 235, EDITORIAL, 141, 173, 205, 237. FIELDWORK REPORTS, 61-63, 195-198. LETTERS, Counting Gannets at breeding colonies (J. B. Nelson) 164 “Temporal abmigration” (P. cris- tatus !) 233. Whooper Swan clutch size (R. S. R. Fitter) 268. NOTICES, Photographic competi- tion 1, 173; Survey of breeding waders 1, 158; dead birds for analysis 27; BRISC 12 spp. sur- vey (Magpie & Green Wood- pecker) 27, 235; Scottish Ringers Conference 1981, 30; Purple Sandpipers 59; Chough Survey 1982, 59; Winter Atlas 93, 268; Jackdaws 94; “British Birds” re- duced subscription 94, 235; Mute Swan Census 129, 171; Natural History Collections Research 129; Herons 130; NE Scotland Atlas 170; XIX International Congress 171; SE Scotland Bird Bulletin 203; AOU Centennial 203; Eiders and mussels 267; Gull movements 267; Hebridean Nat- ural Environment Project 267; Birds of Prey Conference 267. REVIEWS & CURRENT LITERA- TURE OF SCOTTISH INTER- EST, Altenburg - Wintering waders ion the Banc d’Arguin, 231; Angus (ed.) - Sutherland Birds, 230; Bannerman - Birds of the Balearics, 263; Holloway & Thorne - Birds of Fair Isle, 57; Brockie - Wildlife Sketchbook, 26; Brown et al - The Birds of Africa vol. I, 198; Bunn et al - The Barn Owl, 231; Burton - Vanishing Eagles, 124, Cramp et al - BWP vol. III, Waders to Gulls, 263; Cunningham - Birds of the Outer’ Hebrides, 229; En- nion - Living Birds of Eric En- nion, 199; Furness - Birds of Foula, 200; Gaston & Nettleship - Thick-billed Murres of Prince Leopold Island, 123; Gerrard - Instinctive navigation of birds, 93; Glue - Garden Bird Book, 167: Grant - Gulls, 166; Harris- on - Birds of West Midlands, 165; Harrison - Atlas of Birds of Western Palearctic, 166; Har- rison - Seabirds, 264; Hogg - Birds of Ayrshire, 262; Japanese Wild Bird Society - Field Guide to Birds of Japan, 167; Johns- gard - Plovers, Sandpipers & Snipes of the World, 122; Jordan & Hughes - Care of the Wild 167; Lockley - Flight of the Storm Petrel, 264; Marren - Nat- ural History of Aberdeen, 123; Mead - Bird Migration, 262; Mel- lanby - Farming & Wildlife, 25; Nelson - Seabirds, 24; O’Donald - Arctic Skua, 230; Ogilvie - Wild- fowl of Britain & Europe, 265; Patterson - Shelduck, 265; Porter et al - Field Identification of European Raptors, 58; Prater - Estuary birds of Britain & Ire- land, 91; Quine - St Kilda re- visited, 199; Ralph & Scott (eds) - Estimating numbers of terrestrial birds, 265; Reynolds - Spur book of conservation, 124; Riddiford & Findley - Seasonal movements of summer migrants, 126; St John - A Scottish naturalist, 165; Sharrock & Grant - Birds new to Britain & Ireland, 201; Shoard - The theft of the countryside, 25; Southern - Thorburn’s landscape, 124; Tate - Swallows, 125; Thi- bault - Les Oiseaux de la Corse, 200; Tomkies - Golden Eagle Years, 200; Tunnicliffe - Sketches of bird life, 57; Waterston & Jones - Fair Isle, a photographic history, 262; Weaver -_ Bird- watcher’s Dictionary, 58; Welty - Life of birds, 125; Wyllie - Cu- ckoo, 92; Yapp - Birds in mediae- val manuscripts, 126; Zink - Der Zug europaischer Singvogel, 122. Current literature of Scottish interest: 26, 58, 126, 168, 201, 232, 266. SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS'’ CLUB, 27, 60, 94, 130 (Report of Council to June 1982), 169, 202, 233, 269 (Report of Council to June 1983). Branch & Conference News: Ab- erdeen 61, 129; Borders 29; Dun- dee 95; New Galloway 139; Stir- ling 28, 96; SOC Conference 1981 : 29, 1982: 169. 284 INDEX Plates Plates 1 & 3 Puffins on the Isle of May (B. Zonfrillo) Satellite photograph of Scotland (Dundee University) Melodious Warbler, Sardinian Warbler & Barnacle Goose on the Isle of May (N. Aebischer & S. Leach) Leucistic Willow Warbler & Mute Swan (I. P. Gibson & D. W. Core) Peregrine drawing (K. Brockie) Roosting Treecreeper (D. A. Smith) ND OF 8 Clyde Estuary birds : Shelduck (I. J. Patterson), Dunlin (S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato) 9 & 10 St Abb’s Head : Auks, Kittiwakes, Mire Loch & Sedge Warbler (S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato) 11 Hen Harriers on Orkney (D. A. Smith & N. Picozzi) 2 & 13 Crested Tit (R. T. Smith) & habitat (M. J. H. Cook) Uist waders : Sanderling & Ringed Plover (S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato) 15 Sutherland birds : Sparrowhawk eS Tr SaaS & Great Skua (W. S. Paton) ; 16 SOC Photographic Competition winner : Capercaillie (S. M. D. Alexander) 17a Pochard at Seafield (S. R. D. & E. S. da Prato) 17b Yarrow Valley (R. W. Furness) 18 Redshank & Lapwing (R. T. Smith) 19 Arctic Skua (S. M. D. Alexander) First prereui en of SOC Eovopranme- Shield (D. A. Smith) i 20 Isle of May cliffs in storm (M. P. Harris) 21 Guillemots on the Isle of May (M. P. Harris) 22a Caithness flowland (D. Ratcliffe) 22b Golden Plover (S. M. D. Alexander) 23a Killdeer at Bo’ness (J. Osborne) 23b White-tailed Eagle near Stornoway (P. Cunningham) 24a Ruby Smillie’s presentation (M. Draper) 24b 25 years printing of SB by Walter Thomson 25a Afforestation in Dumfriesshire (B. Mearns) 25b Red-throated Diver (W. S. Paton) 26 Purple Sandpipers and Turnstones (R. J. Chandler) 27a Isle of May: Arctic Redpoll (N. Aebischer) Barred Warbler (B. Zonfrillo) 28 Alastair Peirse-Duncombe’s presentation (D. A. Smith) 29 Choughs on Islay (Martin B. Withers) 30 Blackcaps on North Sea oil installations (S. M. D. Alexander) 31 Gyr Falcon (S. M. D. Alexander) Vol. 12 Between pages 16/17 48-49 80-81 118-119 156-157 188-189 220-221 . 258-259 Vol. 12 INDEX 285, Species Every significant mention of bird species is listed. Names follow A Species List of British and Irish Birds (BTO Guide 13, ee Species men- tioned in general articles (eg the ‘Birdwatching in. > series) and in current notes/recent reports are not indexed. AUK, LITTLE, off Islay 7, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 BLACKBIRD, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; predation by Pine Mar- ten 54 BLACKCAP, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 BLUETHROAT, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 BRAMBLING, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; breeding in Inverness- shire 191-193; Oct 1982 fall 248- 251 BUNTING, LAPLAND, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, REED, Isle of May 218-224 eye Isle of May 43-48, 218- BUSHCHAT, RUFOUS, Isle of May 218-224 BUZZARD, COMMON, predated by Pine Marten 53-54; decline in S. Scotland 216 —, ROUGH-LEGGED, Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 250 CAPERCAILLIE, plate 16 CHAFFINCH, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 CHIFFCHAFF, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; breeding in Midlothian 87-88; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 ae status in Scotland 238- 46 CORMORANT, off Islay 6, 11; eat- ing Octopus 163-164; Pentland Skerries 197 CROSSBILL, Isle of May 218-224 CROSSBILL, PARROT, Oct 1982 fall 250 CROW, hybrid zone 23-24 —, HOODED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 CUCKOO, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224; eating amphibians 162-163 CURLEW, in Lewis & Harris 40-42; Clyde Estuary 65-71; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; on agricultur- al land 148-153; Caithness 180- 186; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211 DIVER, BLACK-THROATED, off Islay 5, 11; Caithness 182 —, GREAT NORTHERN, off Islay 5, 9, 11 —, RED-THROATED, off Islay 5, 11; fledging success in Orkney 33-38; Foula 195; mortality 227- 228; plate 25b DOTTEREL, in central Grampians 190-191 DOVE, STOCK, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, ROCK, FERAL, Isle of May 222 —, TURTLE, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, RUFOUS TURTLE, Oct 1982 fall 250 DUCK, LONG-TAILED, off 11; Isle of May 218-224 —, TUFTED, Isle of May 218-224 DUNLIN, in Lewis & Harris 40-42; Clyde Estuary 65-71; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; Caithness 180-186; N. Scotland 206-211; Isle of May 218-224; plate 8 DUNNOCK, Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 EAGLE, GOLDEN, work in NE Scotland 54-56, 159-160; inter- action with mammals 162; with Raven 215; alarm calls 259 —, WHITE-TAILED, plate 23b EIDER, off Islay 6, 11; Isle of May Islay 43-48, 218-224, Clyde Estuary 65-71; Foula 195 FALCON, LANNER, Isle of May 218-224 —, PEREGRINE, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; work in NE Scotland 54- 56, 159-162; plate 6; aggression 193; with Raven 211-217 FIELDFARE, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224, Oct 1982 fall 248-251 FLYCATCHER, PIED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, RED-BREASTED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, SPOTTED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 FULMAR, off Islay 5, 8, 11; trapped on building 22; Isle of May 43-48, 286 174-179, 218-224; Auskerry 196; Sule Skerry 197; Edinburgh 228- 29 GANNET, off Islay 6, 8, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; St Kilda 120- 121; count methods 164; Foula 195; Ailsa Craig 225-226 GODWIT, BAR-TAILED, in Lew- is & Harris 40-42; Uists & Ben- becula 106-112; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211 GOLDCREST, Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 246-251 GOLDENEYE, Clyde Estuary 65-71 GOLDFINCH, Isle of May 43-48 GOOSE, CANADA, Isle of May 43- 48, 218-224 GOOSE, BARNACLE, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224, plate 4c —, BRENT, Isle of May 43-48 —, GREYLAG, Caithness 182 —, PINK-FOOTED, Isle of May 218-224 GREBE, LITTLE, Isle of May 43- 48 GREENSHANK, movements of chick 56-57; Clyde Estuary 65- 71; Uists & Benbecula 110; Caith- ness 180-186; Isle of May 218- 224 GROUSE, RED, taken by crow 89- 90 GUILLEMOT, off Islay 7, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 174-179, 218-224; Foula 195; Canna 196; plate 21 GUILLEMOT, BLACK, off Islay 7, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; Foula 195; Auskerry 196; Canna 196 GULL, BLACK-HEADED, off Islay 11; Clyde Estuary 65-71; inland colonies 119-120 —, COMMON, off Islay 11; inland colonies 119-120; Canna 196 —, FRANKLIN’S, first record 258- 259 —, GLAUCOUS, off Islay 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, GREAT BLACK-BACKED, off Islay 11; Canna 196; Isle of May 218-224 —, HERRING, off Islay 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; inland col- onies 119-120; Canna 196 —, ICELAND, off Islay 11; Isle of May 43-48 —, LESSER BLACK-BACKED, off Islay 11; Isle of May 218-224; in- land colonies 119-120; Canna 196 INDEX Vol. 12 —, LITTLE, off Islay 6, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, ROSS’S, off Islay 6, 11 —, SABINE’S, off Islay 6, 11 HARRIER, HEN, Orkney roost 73- 80; plate 11 —, MARSH, Isle of May 218-224 HERON, GREY, E. Scotland study 62, 195; Isle of May 218-224 JACKDAW, Isle of May 43-48 KILLDEER, plate 23a KITTIWAKE, off Islay 6, 8, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 174-179, 218-224; Foula 195; Auskerry 196; Canna 196; Sule Skerry 197; plate 9 KNOT, in Lewis & Harris 40-42; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; N Scotland 206-211; Isle of May 218-224 LAPWING, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224; Clyde Estuary 65-71; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; on agricultur- al land 148-153; Caithness 180- i N. Scotland 206-211; plate LINNET, Isle of May 218-224 MAGPIE, trio 258 MALLARD, Clyde Estuary 65-71 sae aa HOUSE, Isle of May 218- —, SAND, Isle of May 218-224 MERGANSER, RED-BREASTED, off Islay 11, Isle of May 218-224 MERLIN, frog as prey 89; nest spacing 90; catching moths 194; Grampian study 62, 195; Isle of May 218-224 MOORHEN, Isle of May 218-224 NIGHTINGALE, Isle of May 43-48 OSPREY, wing-stretching 194; Isle of May 218-224 OUZEL, RING, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224 OWL, LONG-EARED, Isle of May 218-224 —, SHORT-EARED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, TAWNY, predation by pine marten 53-54 OYSTERCATCHER, in Lewis & Harris 40-42; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224: Clyde Estuary 65-71; on agricultural land 148-153; Caith- ness 180-186; N. Scotland 206- 211 PETREL, predation 194 —, LEACH’S, off Islay 6, 11; res- ponse to tape 85-86; new colony 86-87; Sule Skerry 197 Vol. 12 —, STORM, off Islay 5, 11; Isle of May 48-48, 218-224: response to tape 85-86; attacked by Peregrine 118; Sule Skerry 197 PHALAROPE, GREY, off Islay 6, 11 —, RED-NECKED, off Islay 6, 11 PINTAIL, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 4 PIPIT, MEADOW, Isle of May 43- 48, 218-224; Caithness 181-182 —, RED-THROATED, Isle of May 218-224 —, RICHARD’S, Oct 1982 fall 250 ROCK, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 4 —, TREE, Isle of May 43-45, 218- 224 PLOVER, GOLDEN, chicks taken by Sparrowhawk 89-90; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; Caithness 180-186; N. Scotland 206-211; Isle of May 218-224; plate 22 —, GREY, Uists & Benbecula 106- 112; N. Scotland 206-211 —, RINGED, in Lewis & Harris 40- 42; Uists & Benbecula 106-112; Caithness 180-186; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211; plate 14 POCHARD, at Edinburgh 143-147, plate 17a PUFFIN, off Islay 7, 11; breeding seasons 11-16; Isle of May 43- 48, 218-224: plates 1 & 3 QUAIL, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 RAIL, WATER, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 RAVEN, status in S. Scotland & Northumbria 211-218 RAZORBILL, off Islay 7, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 174-179, 218-224; Canna 196 REDPOLL, Isle of May 43-48 —, ARCTIC, Isle of May 218-224; plate 27a REDSHANK, in Lewis & Harris 40- 42; biometrics 63; Clyde Estuary 65-71; Uists & Benbecula 106- 112: on agricultural land 148; Caithness 180-186; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211; plate 18 —, SPOTTED, Isle of May 218-224 REDSTART, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 —, BLACK, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224 REDWING, predation by pine mar- ten 53-54; Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251; in a High- land glen 260-261 INDEX 287 ROBIN, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 ROOK, Isle of May 43-48; preda- tion by pine marten 53-54 ROSEFINCH, SCARLET, Isle of May 218-224 RUFF, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224 SANDERLING, in Uists & Benbec- ula 106-112; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211; plate 14 SANDPIPER, COMMON, Isle of May 48-48, 218-224; in Angus 63; Caithness 180-186 —, GREEN, Isle of May 43-48 —, PURPLE, in Lewis & Harris 40- 42; study in Norway 62; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; Uists & Ben- becula 106-112; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211, plate 26 SCAUP, off Islay 11; Isle of May 218-224 SCOTER, COMMON, off Islay 11; in Caithness 182 —, SURF, off Islay 6, 11 SHAG, off Islay 6, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; Foula 195; Canna ea Auskerry 196; Sule Skerry 1 at ie ai CORY’S, off Islay By ol —, LITTLE, off Islay 5, 11 —, MANX, off Islay 5, 8, 11; Canna 196; Isle of May 218-224 —, SOOTY, off Islay 5, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 SHELDUCK, Clyde estuary 65-72; Isle of May 218-224; plate 8 SHORELARK, Isle of May 218-224 SHOVELER, Isle of May 43-45 SHRIKE, GREAT GREY, Isle of May 218-224, Oct 1982 fall 250 —. RED-BACKED, Isle of May 48- 48, 218-224 SISKIN, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248 SKUA, ARCTIC, off Islay 6, 11; Caithness 182-183; Foula 195; Isle of May 218-224; plate 19 —, GREAT, off Islay 6, 11; Foula 195; Isle of May 218-224, plate 19 —, LONG-TAILED, off Islay 6, 11 —, POMARINE, off Islay 6, 11; Isle of May 218-224 SKYLARK, in Caithness 181-182 SNIPE, COMMON, in Uists & Ben- becula 110; on agricultural land 148-153; Caithness 180-186; N. Scotland 208-209 —, GREAT, Isle of May 218-224 288 —, JACK, Isle of May 218-224 SPARROWHAWK, Isle of May 43- 48, 218-224: taking plover chicks 89-90; plate 15 STARLING, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224; taken by Hen Harrier 74; Oct 1982 fall 250 STINT, LITTLE, Isle of May 43-48 STONECHAT, Caithness 182; Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 SWALLOW, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 SWAN, MUTE, E. Scotland Study 197; leucistic, plate 5b a brood size 226-227, SWIFT, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224 TEAL, in Caithness 182; Isle of May 218-224 TERN, ARCTIC, off Islay 7, 11; Foula 195; Pentland Skerries 197 —, COMMON, off Islay 7, 11; Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; attacking Little Tern chick 119 —, LITTLE, 119 —, ROSEATE, off Islay 11 —, SANDWICH, off Islay 11; Pent- land Skerries 197 THRUSH, BLACK-THROATED, Oct 1982 fall 250 = GREY-CHEEKED, Oct 1982 fall 50 —, MISTLE, carrying small mam- mal 22-23; song-flighting 259 —, SONG, predation by pine mar- ten 54; Isle of May 218-224 TIT, CRESTED, breeding status 97- 106: on Deeside 255-258; plate 12 —, GREAT, predation by pine mar- ten 54 TREECREEPER, roost site, plate 7 TURNSTONE, in Lewis & Harris 40-42; Uists & Benbecula 106- 112; Orkney 198; N. Scotland 206-211, plate 26 TWITE, Isle of May 43-48 WAGTAIL, ASHY-HEADED, of May 218-224 —, GREY, Isle of May 43-48, preda- tion by pine marten 54 —, PIED, Isle of May 43-48, 218- Isle INDEX Vol. 12 224; predation by pine marten 54; in Caithness 182 Tai ERIE, Isle of May 43-48, 218- —, YELLOW, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 WARBLER, BARRED, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224, plate 27b —, DUSKY, Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 250 —, GARDEN, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224 —, GRASSHOPPER, Isle of May 43-48 —, ICTERINE, Isle of May 218-224 pr alieae ren Oct 1982 fall 5 —, MARSH, Isle of May 218-224 —, MELODIOUS, Isle of May 43- 48, 218-224, plate 4a —, PALLAS’S, Isle of May 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 246-251 —, RADDE’S, Oct 1982 fall 250 —. REED, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224 —, SARDINIAN, Isle of May 43-48, plate 4b —, SEDGE, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224: plate 10 —, WILLOW, Isle of May 43-48, 218-224; high nest 193; leucistic, plate 5a —, WOOD, Isle of May 43-48, 218- 224 —, YELLOW-BROWED, Isle _ of May 43-48, 218-224; Oct 1982 fall 248-251 WHEATEAR, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224; in Caithness 182 WHIMBREL, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224 WHINCHAT, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224; in Caithness 182 WHITETHROAT, Isle of May 43-45, 218-224 —, LESSER, Isle of May 43-45, 218- 224 WIGEON, Caithness 182 WOODCOCK, Isle of May 218-224 WOODPIGEON, predation by pine marten 54 WRYNECEK, Isle of May 43-45, 218- 224 fX | Edited by: Roy H. Dennis Published by: The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT Secretary: Major A. D. Peirse-Duncombe THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club was formed in 1936 and membership is open to all interested in Scottish Ornithology. Meetings are held during the winter months in Aberdeen, Ayr, the Borders, Dumfries, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, New Galloway, St Andrews, Stirling, Thurso and the Wigtown District at which lectures by prominent ornithologists are given and films exhibited. Expeditions are organised in the summer to places of ornithological interest. The aims of the Club are to (a) encourage the study of Scottish ornithology and to promote an interest in wild birds: (b) co-ordinate the activities of Scottish ornitholo- gists; (c) encourage ornithological work in Scotland; (d) encourage conservation of Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) hold meetings for discussion and to arrange ornithological field meetings, and (f) appoint local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology, including Scottish Birds, the club journal. There are no entry fees for Membership. The Annual subscription is 7.50, or £3 in the case of Members under twenty one years of age or Students under 25, who satisfy Council of their status as such at the times at which their subscriptions fall due. The Life subscription is £150. Family Membership is available to married couples and their nominated children under 18 at an Annual subscription of £11, or a Life subscription of £225. Scottish Birds is issued free to Members but Family Members will receive one copy between them. Subscriptions are payable on Ist October annually. Scottish Birds, which is published quarterly, includes papers, articles and short notes on all aspects of ornithology in Scotland. The club also publishes the annual Scottish Bird Report. The affairs of the Club are controlled by a Council composed of the Hon. Presidents the President, the Vice-President, the Treasurer, and ten other Members of the Club elected at an Annual General Meeting. On the Council is also one Representa- tive of each Branch Committee appointed annually by the Branch. The Club tie in dark green, navy or maroon terylene, a car sticker and a brooch in silver and blue, displaying the Club emblem, a Crested Tit, can be obtained by Members only from the Club Secretary. The Waterston Library at 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT is open during office hours (Monday to Friday 9 am to 1 pm and 2 to5 pm). The Bird Book shop is also at 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh. It is managed by the : Club and the profits help to maintain services to ornithologists at the Scottish —_ Centre, from which a free book list can be obtained. Application for Membership form, copy of the Club Constitution, and other literature are obtainable from the Club Secretary, Major A.D. Peirse-Duncombe, Scottish Centre for Ornithology and Bird Protection, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh 4 EH7 SBT (Tel. 031-556 6042). SCOTTISH BIRD REPORT 1981 (2 Part of Scottish Birds Volume $I Edited by ROY H. DENNIS Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness IV1 1XD CONTENTS BEEO CINCOM eee acidic he seaaventelonads anccebhevtyuachowetasdwnne seman 3 ACKMOWIEUSEMENTS), 208i vaZeslofeskcds Yaw scaatanedSeaaverondeienenaates 6 Eoealirecorders for 1981 and 1982. ..2. iv scsecciedi es sssetesonssane ves ce AD DEEVIAHONS ANA SYMDBOIS,. vircaiccecrccescreonvserrewseevavevevanenn 8 ICIStHOMODSECEVEES (shan iwicwidalcesiomiodidstcuateaaalonsguieiindssranna 9 SBE ClS SHES teat atte iad amanaimanscnapuceecindy camarme veh iaaneaneniayns Z GOrbechOns and: AACIMONS: viens scckwicersdboorssecesesenvasseens cas 52 INGLICETOICONTIDULOLS iis cnia caaitianiiswend vesegebonee sane nan bensnonabeay 61 Published by the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT December 1982 Printed by Capital Print, Unit 4, Thorntreeside, Easter Road, Edinburgh EHo i j INTRODUCTION 1981 was a really exciting year for bird-watchers in Scotland; a record total of 325 species were identified during the year and recorded in this report. 87 rare birds were recorded and 38 of these were represented by only a single individual. Ten species were considered to have escaped or been released from captivity or were of doubtful origin. Surprisingly in a year of plenty only one new species was added to the Scottish List but that was a dramatic addition - a Sandhill Crane from North America, which arrived at Fair Isle on 26th April and departed next day. Year 76 77 +78 79 80 81 No. of species recorded 314 305 298 323 315 325 No. of new species 4 4 2 6 4 1 Other rare vagrants included American Bittern, Purple Heron, American Wigeon (2), Black Duck, Gyr Falcon, Stone Curlew, Kentish Plover, Lesser Golden Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper (3), Great Snipe, Wilson’s Phalarope (4), Franklin’s Gull, Bonaparte’s Gull, Ring-billed Gull (2), Ross’s Guli (4), Alpine Swift (3), Olive-backed Pipit (2), Citrine Wagtail, Red-flanked Bluetail, Eye-browed Thrush, Black-throated Thrush, American Robin, River, Pallas’s Grasshopper, Savi’s, Booted, Sardinian, Pallas’s and Bonelli’s Warblers, Isabelline Shrike (2), Woodchat Shrike (2), Trumpeter Finch, Rustic (4), Yellow-breasted (4) and Pallas’s Reed Buntings. Arrivals and departures of summer visitors: Arrival Departure Osprey 27 March early November Corncrake 28 April 3 November Whimbrel 10 April 24 October Common Sandpiper 22 March 18 October Cuckoo 9 April 24 October Swift 1 May 31 October Sand Martin 26 March 3 October | Swallow 27 March 14 November | House Martin 16 March 20 November | Tree Pipit 6 April 9 October | Redstart 11 April 11 November | Whinchat 11 April 9 November | Wheatear 14 March 26 November Sedge Warbler 3 April 25 September Whitethroat 17 April 6 October | Garden Warbler 25 April 17 November | Willow Warbler 13 March 29 October Spotted Flycatcher 8 April 15 October | 3 Ms Many summer visitors were early and there were good falls of continental migrants on the way to Scandinavia. Snow storms and cold weather, especially in southern Scotland, held up spring passage in late April and adversely affected early nesting birds. There was a dramatic fall of migrants on the east coast in May, especially Bluethroats with about 275 of these lovely spring migrants in mid-May. The early autumn passage was disappoint- ing but big falls of Scandinavian night-migrants occurred later in September and October, with a good sprinkling of rare vagrants. A very interesting arrival of Bean Geese occurred in many areas which resulted in higher than usual wintering numbers. The year ended with very cold conditions which caused heavy mortality of many species. Seabirds (including terns in the north) had a generally good breeding season and Red-throated Divers also did well. Birds of prey were affected by the severe weather in the spring and breeding success was low for some species, but Ospreys had their best ever season with 20 pairs rearing 42 young. Goldeneye also had an excellent season with 29 successful ducks hatching a total of 286 young; Ruddy Ducks continued to increase although breeding success was again nil. Quail bred successfully and three broods of Purple Sandpiper were recorded. Green Woodpecker and Jay continued their northward expansion and there was an interesting upswing in Lesser Whitethroats in the nesting season. No Wrynecks, Red-backed Shrikes or Lapland Butnings were found nesting but Snow Buntings had a good year. Notes on Compilation: This report is published by the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club and should be regarded as part of Scottish Birds Volume 11 (and can be bound with that volume). For new recorders it should be noted that the report is a concise (and at times terse) summary of data collected on all species known to have occurred in Scotland in 1981 and no attempt is made to define the ordinary status of most species. Precedence is given to peak numbers, migration patterns, first and last dates, records in unusual areas etc. All records of semi and national rarities are given while for some species the data has been summarised in table form. For further information readers can refer to The Birds of Scotland (Baxter & Rintoul 1953) or previous Scottish Bird Reports which are still available from the Secretary. As before we stress that observer cover in various regions of Scotland ranges from very good to pretty thin and care should be taken in comparing numbers and regional distribution, especially of migrants. Generally speaking, the Northern Isles, the North Sea coast, central Scotland and the Clyde/Solway areas are better 4 covered than elsewhere, but there are pockets of good cover in most regions. For some areas, more information is published and greater detail given in the local bird reports. Although much local information cannot be published here, the collection of records by the local recorders provides a most useful fund of reference data for regional ornithology. At the request of the SOC, the British Trust for Ornithology has started to provide a print-out of Scottish ringing recoveries which will allow us to include an annual contribution on bird ringing recoveries of Scottish interest in the $.B.R. We are very grateful to the BTO Ringing Office for this service. I am very grateful to A.R. Mainwood who has offered to write a summary for the $.B.R., and even more so to him this year as he has managed to rapidly write a summary from the recently received data. In order to get it in this $.B.R. we have used a photo-reduction of the word processor print-out so we apologise for the very small type. yy\\ ¥: AIS OY AT ARR NINES on ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank everyone who has contributed or helped with the 1981 report, including the observers who sent in the records and especially the local recorders who collated the records and produced the area reports. My grateful thanks to John Love for the Crested Tit on the Cover and to A. Dowell and D.G. Mitchell for vignettes. LOCAL RECORDERS Shetland (except Fair Isle) R.J. Tulloch, Lussetter House, Mid Yell, Shetland assisted by J.N. Dymond, J.D. Okill and I. Sandison. Fair Isle N. Riddiford, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland. Orkney C.J. Booth, ‘‘Ronas"’, 34 High Street, Kirkwall, Orkney. Outer Hebrides, St. Kilda W.A.J. Cunningham, Aros, 10 Barony Square, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis PA87 2TQ. Caithness Mrs P.M. Collett, Sandyquoy, East Gills, Scrabster, Caithness KW14 7UH. Sutherland Dr 1.D. Pennie, 5 Badcall, Scourie, Sutherland 1V27 4TH. Ross-shire (except Black Ilse), Inverness-shire (mainland over 18 miles from Inverness) R.H. Dennis, Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness IVI1XD. Inverness-shire (within 18 miles of Inverness) and Black Isle, Ross-shire M.1. Harvey, Clachbhan, Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire. Narinshire, Morayshire, Banffshire N. Elkins, 10 Oakbank Place, Elgin, Moray- shire 1V30 2LZ Aberdeen, North Kincardineshire Dr M.V. Bell, 236 Victoria Road, Torry, Aberdeen ABI 3NS. South Kincardineshire, Angus. N.K. Atkinson, 5 Tolmount Crescent, Montrose, Angus DD109DQ. Perthshire E.D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perthshire PH2 6RZ. Isle of May B. Zonfrillo, 28 Brodie Road, Balornock East, Glasgow G21 3SB. Fife (except Forth Islands), Kinross-shire 1.G. Cumming, 11 Canongate, St Andrews, Fife. Clackmannanshire, East Stirlingshire Dr C.J. Henty, 3 The Broich, Alva Clackmannanshire. West Lothian, Forth Islands (except May) Midlothian A.W. & L. Brown, 7 Trelawney Terrace, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 ONB. East Lothian E.S. Macgregor, 16 Merchiston Avenue, Edinburgh EH10 4NY. Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire R.D. Murray, 143 Eskhill, Penicuik, Midlothian. Argyllshire, Inner Hebrides M.J.P. Gregory, Duiletter, Kilmory Road, Lochgilp- head, Argyllshire PA31 8NL. Dunbartonshire, West Stirlingshire, Renfrewshire |.P. Gibson, Arcadia, The Glen Howwood, Renfrewshire. Lanarkshire Dr E.S. Alexander, 3 Lilac Hill, Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Ayrshire, Arran, Bute R.H. Hogg, Kirklea, 11 Kirkmichael Road, Crosshill, Maybole, Ayrshire. Dumfriesshire Dr E. Fellowes, West Isle, Islesteps, Dumfries DG2 8ES. Kirkcudbrightshire, Wigtownshire A.D. Watson, Barone, 54 Main Street, Dalry, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire DG8 3UW. CHANGES OF LOCAL RECORDERS FOR 1982 Shetland Dennis Coutts. *‘Da Knowe’’ Twageos Road, Lerwick, Shetland. Sutherland A.R. Mainwood, 13 Ben Bhraggie Drive, Golspie, Sutherland. Argyllshire, Inner Hebrides R.F. Coomber, 4 Staffa Cottages, Tobermory, Isle of Mull PA7S 6PL. 1 would like to thank Bobby Tulloch, lain Pennie, Keith Brockie, Alan Knox and Mike Gregory for their good work towards the Scottish Bird report. Abbreviations and Symbols in the Species List known to have bred in Scotland in 1981 all known records are given of escaped or doubtful origin + + malec males dd female @ females 99° § still subject to British Birds Rarities Committee decision - all records given here of species that come within the scope of the British Birds Rarities Committee have been accepted by the committee unless noted as subject to acceptance. Records of species not on that list but regarded as rare in Scotland have requiied adequate supporting evidence before publication. We appeal to observers to submit descriptions of rare and unusual species to the local recorder as soon as possible, preferably on an unusual record form, obtainable free from the local recorder. County names are shortened, e.g. Shet =Shetland, Wig = Wigtown-shire etc. In fact much abbreviation hs been used, e.g. months, and qualifications such as ‘near’ and ‘about’ have been omitted. The sequence and names in the species list follow Prof K.H. Voous (1977, List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species) as published in the ‘British Birds’ List of Birds in the Western Palearctic. LIST OF OBSERVERS Over 1000 observers contributed records to the local recorders in 1981 and we are extremely grateful to them. Not all contributors are mentioned in this list, since in many cases records were summarized before submission to us; my apologies to those omitted. D.E. Abbey, J. Adam, R.G. Adam, N. Aebischer, E.S. & A.A. Alexander, $S.M.D Alexander, P.J. Alker, M. Allison, A. Anderson, G. Anderson, J. Anderson, P Anderson, P.D. Anderson, I. Andrews, R.A.G. Angus, S. Angus, W. Appleyard, N. Armstrong, J.M.S. Arnott, P. Asquith, N.K. Atkinson, E.J. Austin, W. Austin. C. Badenoch, Dr R.S. Bailey, I. Balfour-Paul, J.H. Ballantyne, K.W. Banks, A.W. Barker, D.J. Barker, S.F. Barstow, Mrs E Bartiett, G. Bashford, D.J. Bates, G.G. Bates, D. Batty, P.G.T. Baxter, N. Bayliss, M.J. Bayne, E. Bear, A. Beck, D. A. Bell, G.F. Bell, J. Bell, M. Bell, Dr M.V. Bell, E. & T. Bellamy, D.J. Belshaw, J. G. Bennie, N. Benvie, W.A.S. Bews, H. Bird, T. Binny, I. Black, C.G. Booth, C.J. Booth, J. Booth, C.M. Booth, K. Borey, D. Borton, D: W.R.P. Bourne, I. Boustead, P. Bowyer, T.Boyd, W.R. Brackenridge, A.T. , amhall, W. Branner, P. Branwhite, Miss A. Brenchley, R.A. Broad, B.J. Broad:. vy. G.J. Brock, K. Brockie, A. Brown, A.W. Brown, H. Brown, Mrs L.M. Brown, M.A. Bruce, W. Bruce, D.M. Bryant, L. Bryson, A. Buckham, S.T. Buckland, R.G. Burton, H. Burton, J.L. Burton, J. Busby, C.I. Bushell, D.G. Butler, D.J. Butler, J.M. Butterworth, Dr N. Buxton, T. Byars, C. Byers, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). R.L. Calder, R.G. Caldow, M. Callan, R. Calligan, D. Cameron, E.D. Cameron, J. M. Cameron, A. Campbell, B. Campbell, R.B. Cardno, D. Carnduff, E.A. Carr, M. F. Carrier, J. Carruthers, D. Carstairs, Dr M.E. Castle, M.S. Chapman, G. Checkley, M.C. Chesney, J. Chester, P. Childs, S. Chinnery. A.R. Church, H. Clark, R. Cleghorn, D.L. Clugston, A.J. Clunas, J. Cobb, A.F.C.M. & P.M. Collett, J.G. & J.M. Conner, D. Counsell, T.P. Conway, M.J.H. Cook, N. Cook, R. Cook, R. F. Coomber, A. Copeland, R. Corbett, D.W. Core, A. Cormack, C.J. Corse, B. Cosnette, S.J. Court, D. Coutts, C.N.L. Cowper, R.S. Craig, A. Cranshaw, G.M. Crighton, G. Crittenden, N. Crowther, W.I. Crowther, 1.G. Cumming, J. Cudworth, S. Cunningham, W.A.J. Cunningham, F. Curran, J. Currie, O.D. & M. F. Cuthbert, J. Cutt, 1.C. Christie. G. Dalziel, L. Dalziel, 1.M. Darling, J.N. Darroch, S. Davies, J.M. Davis, 1.G. & C. D. Davison, A. Deacon, T. Delaney, A. Del Nevo, Mrs M.T. Dennis, R.H. Dennis, S. & K. Denny, D. Dick, D. Dickson, J.M. Dickson, R.C. Dickson, T. Dixon, D. Doig, D. Donnelly, H.E.M. Dott, T.W. Dougall, A. Dowell, J. Downie, R. Downing, A.F.G. Dowse, A. Drever, J. Dunbar, A. Duncan, J.M. Duncan, N. Duncan, F. Dunlop, J.F. Dunn, M.H. Dunn, Prof G.M. Dunnet, R.F. Durman, E. Duthie, J.N. Dymond. C.J. Eatough, H. Edwards, J. Edelston, D.M. & J. Edge, N.B. Edwards, T. Eggeling, G. Ekins, N. Elkins, R. Elliott, P.M. Ellis, S. England, I. English, J.W. Enticott, Sir R. Erskine-Hill, B. Etheridge, D.P.P. Eva, Mrs F. Evans, P.J. Ewins. ]. Farquharson, G. Fawcett, E. Fellowes, A. Fitchett, G.J. Fitchett, I. Ford, R.A. Ford, B.C. Forrester, R.W. Forrester, J. Forsyth, W. Forsyth, D.P. Fosbrook, J.A. Fowler, M.W. Fraser, Dr C.H. Fry, B.L. Furness, Dr R.W. Furness. H. Galbraith, R. Gash, F. Gatens, J. Gearing, C. Gibson, 1.P. Gibson, G. Gilchrist, D. Given, C. Gomersall, R. Gooch, A.G. Gordon, J.J. Gordon, P.R. Gordon, N. Graham, R. Graham, 1.P. Grant, J-A.R. Grant, A. Gray, F. Gray, M. Gray, W.S. Gray, Mrs S. Green, S. Greenstreet, M.J.P. Gregory, D. Grieve, J.M. Gunn. S.R. Hacker, J. Haigh, Mrs H.S.C. Halliday, Dr K.C.R. Halliday, F.D. Hamilton, K.C. Hamilton, P.F. Hancock, M.G.R. Hannay, J.J.C. Hardey, M.J. Harley, Dr M. P. Harris, M.I. Harvey, R. Hawley, C.G. Headlam, A. Heaviesides, D.B. Henderson, J.G. Henderson, N. Henderson, |. Hendry, Dr C.J. Henty, M. Heubeck, V. Hewison, W. Hewison, B.A. Hickman, D. Hickson, W.D. Higgins, E.M. Hissett, R. Hissett, R.H. Hogg, J. Hollway, P. Hope-Jones, Dr P.G. Hopkins, J. Hornbuckle, D.H.B. Howie, B. Hughes, D.C. Hulme, E.N. Hunter. M.J. lmber, J. Innes, M. Innes, D.L. Irving, T. Irving, J.C. Isom, J.H. Isom. N. Jackson, J. Jamieson, D.C. Jardine, S. Jarvis, Dr D. Jenkins, P. Johnson, A.F. Johnston, E.J.H. Johnston, W.G. Johnston, G. Jones, M. Jones. ‘Mrs J. Kendrick, B.D. Kerr, D. Kerridge, R.F.K. Kiddie, C. Kightley, A.J. Kilgour, P.K. Kinnear, D.A. Kirk, J. Kirk, A.R. Kitson, B. Knowles, Dr A.G. Knox, J. Knox, E. Kwater, Mrs J. Kyle. A. Laing, S. Laing, S.A. Laing, B.R. Lancaster, D.C. Lang, A.R.D. Laurenson, W. Laurenson, J. Law, N. Lawrie, S. Laybourne, D. Lea, E.A. Lea, I.H. Leach, S. Leach, R. Leavett, J. Leece, S. Leech, M. Leven, R.J. Lilley, I.F. Lindsay, M.K. Lindsay, R.P. Lindsay, I. Livingston, F.Y. & J.D. Lough, L.S. Lovat, J. Love, B.M. Lynch. D. & H. McAllister, K. McCallum, N. McCance, C. McCarty, J. & R. McCutcheon, D. Macdonald, G. MacDonald. S. Macdonald, Mrs M.K. MacDuff-Duncan, D.H. McEwan, K.S. Macgregor, A. Maciver, S.G. MacKay, C.R. MacKay, W. McKechnie, I. McKellar, 1.M. McKinnie, |. McLachlan, D. Macleman, E.S. Mclure, A. Mackie, E.J. Maguire, M. Main, A.R. Mainwood, R.J. Mann, J. Manson, S.A.M. Manson, M. Marquiss, B. Marshall, E.M. Marshall, A.P. Martin, A.R. Martin, I. Martin, M.W.A. Martin, A. Mathieson, W.A. Mattingley, E.W.E. & H. Maughan, R. Mearris, W. Meecham, E.R. Meek, Mrs D.I. Melrose, J.K.R. Melrose, T.D.H. Merrie, A.J. Merritt, H.G. Millars, R.J. Miller, J.S. Milliken, P.R. Mills, A. Milne, Dr H. Milne, N. Milne, R. Milne, T.P. Milson, D.W. Minns, D. Mitchell, J. Mitchell, R. Mitchell, J. Moore, T. Moncrieff, D. Morris, C.M. Morrison, G. Morrison, Dr W.M. Morrison, R. Morton, J. Moss, Dr R. Moss, D. Mower, S. Moyes, A.M. Mundy, R.D. Murray, S. Murray, W. Murray, J.H.B. Munro, I.C. Mcleod. Nature Conservancy Council, W. Neill, R. Nelson, A. Del Nevo, M. Nicoll, R.G. Nisbet, D.J. Norden, S. North. J. Ogiivy, M.A. Ogilvie, J.D. Okill, D.W. Oliver, J.M.A. Osborne, J. Oswald, E. Owen. P. Packham, S.M. Palmer, C. Park, Rev M. & C. Paternoster, G.L.A. Patrick, Dr I.P. Patterson, W.G. Patterson, D. Paynter. D. Peirse, C.R. Pell, 1.D. Penman, I.D. Pennie, A. Phillips, M. Phillips, B. Philp, N. Picozzi, M.F. Piper, N. Poleson, R.K. Pollock, M. Porteous, Mrs E.S. da Prato, S.R.D. da Prato, C. Prentice, D. Preston, I. Puckrin, D.M. Pullan. P. Racey, R. Rae, R.A. Ramage, A.D.K. Ramsay, G.D. Rankin, N. Rankin, E. Ravenscroft, C.P. Rawcliffe, G. Rebecca, J. Rendall, L.G.T. Reddy, R.C. Redman, A. Remeeus, A.D. Rendall, P. Reynolds, B. Ribbands, M.G. Richardson, N.J. Riddiford, G.S. Riddle, I.S. Rintoul, A.B. Ritchie, H. Robb, B. Robertson, G. Robertson, I.S. Robertson, R. Robertson, A. Robertson-Durham, C. Robson, J. Rodgerson, T. Rogers. M. Ross, B. Rowley, C. Rowley, Dr D.E. Rowling, R. Roxburgh, C. Rudie, Dr M. Rusk, S.M. Russell. S. Sampson, G.L. Sandeman, P.W. Sandeman, |. Sandison, L. Schofield, R.A. Schofield, D.J. Scott, Mrs M.A. Scott, M.G. Scott, P.B. Scott, C.E.K. Scouller, R. Shand, Mrs A.F.W. Sharp, M. Sharp, G. Shaw, K.D. Shaw, K.B. Shepherd, G. Sheppaird, S. & M.E. Shimeld, A. Simpson, J. Simpson, W. Simpson, M. Sinclair, H. Skelton, D. Skilling, J. Skilling, P. Skimmings, A.J. Smith, D.A. Smith, Mrs E.M. Smith, G. Smith, R.A. Smith, R.T. Smith, R.W.J. Smith, S. Smith, I.G. Smitton, T.C. Smout, D.S. Soutar, J. Speakman, |. Spence, E.F.B. Spragge, Dr C. J. Spray, D. Stalker, J. Steele, L.D. Steele, A.B. Stephen, D.P. Stevens, A. Stewart, A.G. Stewart, D. Stewart, B.J. Stewart, J.A. Stewart, P. Stirling-Aird, N. Strutt, R.W. Summers, I.S. Suttie, R.L. Swann, J.J. Sweeney, F. Symonds, Scottish Wildlife Trust. E. Tait, M.L. Tasker, J. Taylor, K. Taylor, S. Taylor, C. Thomas, B. Thomson, I. Thomson, J. Thomson, M.S. Thomson, D. Thorogood, G.A. Todd, D. Tuckwell, R.J. Tulloch, A. Turner, P.J. Turner. P. Upton, L.A. Urquhart. J. Valentine, A. Venters, K. Verrall, Dr L.L.J. Vick. A. Walker, B.P. Walker, K. Walker, R. Walker, J.H. Wallace, M. Wallace, A. Walterson, G. Walterson, M. Walterson, S. Wanless, S. Ward, M. Ware, C.E. & S. R. Warham, D.W. Warner, D.J. Warnock, D. & M. Washington, A. Watson (sen), Dr A. Watson, A.D. Watson, A.J. Watson, D.N. Weir, T. Weir, R.C. Welland, R. D. Wemyss, D.S. Whitaker, G.T. White, S.M. Whitehouse, A. Whitelaw, P. Whittaker, G.T. Whyte, E.J. Williams, Mrs D.L. Willis, 1.R. Willis, J. Wilson, J. M. & N.M. Wilson, A. Wood, A.D. Wood, H. & K.F. Woodbridge, K. Woodbridge, P. Wortham, G.A. Wright, M. Wright, G.T. Wylie, Prof V.C. Wynne- Edwards. A. Young, J.G. Young, L. Young, Dr M.R. Young, R.E. Youngman. R. Zawadski, B. Zonfrillo. SPECIES LIST +Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Breeding: Shet, excellent success, unfledged young from 1 July - 2 Sep; Ork, 11 young from Mainland lochs is poor; Caith, 4 young from 7 pairs; Suth, 3 pairs nested Handa; Inv, 8 young from 12 pairs Rhum; poor season Mull, Arg and Arran where numbers increased to 11 pairs. Peak counts and passage: Fair Isle autumn 21 Aug - 22 Oct, max 9 on 29 Sep; Moray, 350 Spey Bay 18 Oct; Aber, 235 between Murcar and Black dog 15 Oct, peaks at Peterhead 148N on 22 Apr and 126S on 28 Sep; Fife, 25 Shell Bay 9 May; Stir, 1 N Third res 15 Mar; Midl, 27 Musselburgh 7 Mar; E Loth, 44 Gullane 22 Mar; Arg, 30 Tayinloan 29 Nov; Kirk, 15 Gutcher’s Isle 18 Feb. tBlack-throated Diver Gavia arctica Breeding: Suth, 20-29 prs found reared 5-6 young; Ross, 19 prs reared 3 young; Caith, 4 prs reared 2 young and Inv, 4 prs reared 2 young; overall Highland breeding success 0.22-0.26 young per pr (RSPB). Shet, 4 records, singles except 2 Burravoe 25 Oct; Ork, present 4 Apr to 25 Dec, max 8 Waulkmill 1 Dec fits with increased wintering in north; Caith, 7 Sinclair’s Bay 22 Nov; Fife, 16 Largo Bay 3 May; Midl, 5S Musselburgh 20 Sep; Selk, 1 St Mary’s Loch 15-17 Feb; Ayr, good spring passage, peaks 39 Chapeldonan - Balkenna 1 Apr, 18 Prestwick 6 Apr; Wig, 8L Ryan 31 Jan; Dumf, 7 Southerness 26 Apr. Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Winter-spring peaks: Shet, 28 Bluemull - Colgrave 22 Jan, 21 Quendale 6 Apr; Ork, 70 Graemsay 20 Mar; Caith, 8 Sinclair’s Bay 5S Apr; only small numbers S from Aber, max 3 Musselburgh 18 Jan; Ber, 2 Pease Bay 15 Feb - 29 Mar. West Coast: Inv, 11 L Brittle, Skye 14 Apr, 10 Raasay 2 May; Arg, 48 West Loch Tarbert to Gigha 22 Mar; singles inland Kirk 2 and 15 Feb. Summer records as usual on coasts; also 1 Elliot, Angus 11 June and adult Gryfe res, Renf 9 May. Autumn: Shet, 44 Bluemull/Colgrave 24 Oct, 59 on 11 Dec, albino Weisdale Voe Nov - Dec; Ork, 60 Rousay/Gairsay 6 Nov; Caith, 10 Dunnet 28 Dec; Aber, 5 Rattray 6 Dec; Arg, 50+ Tayinloan 29 Nov; Wig, 10 Port William 28 Dec. *White-billed Diver Gavia adamsii Four records: Shet, singles Whalsay from 1980 to 17-25 Jan (Dr. B. Marshall, N.D. Poleson et al), adult Holm of Heogland, Unst 17 May (A. Brown et al), Whalsay 21 Dec into 1982 (N.D. Poleson et al)§; Caith, adult found dead Noss Head 22 Jan (K.W. Banks). +Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Breeding numbers apparently good except continued decrease Moray; success generally low. Counts and passage: Shet, absent 26 May - 29 Aug; E Ross, 10 Munlochy Bay 18 Oct; Isle of May singles 15-16 Oct, 27 Oct; Fife, 38 Cameron res 13 Sep; W Loth, 60 Linlithgow 13 Sep; Ayr, 25 Shewalton 4 Oct is highest for county. +Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Breeding: Kirk, good season, 13+ prs L Ken reared 12 young, including 3 small young 16 Sep; Ayr, disastrous season with no young reared from 7+ prs; Lan, Dunb, W Stir, Renf, 23+ prs reported reared 13 young; Borders, worst season for years; Loth, poor; Fife, 9 prs Lindores only 2 young; Perth, poor success; Aber, 1 pr failed and 1 pr attempted. Counts and migrants: O Heb, 1 N Uist 8 Feb; Inv, 1 Beauly Firth 18 Oct; Kinr, 128 L Leven 1 Dec; Fife, 46 Kilconquhar 12 Apr; Stir, 800 Grangemouth 20 Jan, 230 on 16 Sep, 700 on 31 Dec; Midl, 117 Musselburgh 19 Sep, 520 Joppa-Seafield 1 Dec down to 190 on 15 Dec; W Loth, 190 Kinneil 5 Oct; E Loth, 81 Gosford 2 Aug; Arg, 1 Lna Keal, Mull 21 Oct; Dunb, low numbers Clyde est, max only 13 Oct - Dec; Wig, 104 L Ryan 4 Nov; Kirk, 17 Port 0’ Warren 17 July. 12 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Summer; two individuals summered but no proof of nesting. Winter-spring: Shet, | Skellister 12-17 Jan; O Heb, 1 North Uist 25 Jan; small numbers SE coasts, max 3 Largo Bay, Fife 4 Apr, 4 Shell Bay 9 May; 3 Musselburgh, Midl 18 Jan; on west coast, | West Loch Tarbert, Arg 8 Feb; Ardmore Point, Dunb 17 Jan. Autumn: singles Skerries, Shet 5-8 Sep and Fair Isle 6 Sep; Ork, 1 Waulkmill 6-20 Sep and S Dec, 1 Scapa 24 Sep; Suth, 2 L Fleet 14 Nov; very small numbers E coast except E Loth mid Jul - Sep where max 58 on 25 July; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 18 Oct - 1S Nov; Ayr, 2 Barassie 29 Nov - 1 Dec; Kirk, 2 Woodhall L 4 Nov. +Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Breeding: at least 63-66 pairs in Inv of which at least 51-59 prs nested and fledged between 36 and 41 young; Moray, 5 prs reared 5 young; Perth, one pr reared one young. Counts and migration: Shet, max 11 Tresta Voe 14 Mar; 1-2 Fair Isle 21 Oct - 6 Nov; Ork, max 13 L of Harray 13 Mar; Suth, 6 L Fleet 14 Nov; Inv, 46 still on breeding loch S Oct; small numbers Aber-Fife, max 3 Buddon 18 Jan; Midl, 7 Musselburgh 8 Mar and 14 Noy; E Loth, peaks 38 Gosford - Gullane on 18 Jan, 52 on 24 Feb and 190n 8 Mar; Arg, 12 L Indaal, Islay 21 Mar, 13 Tayinloan 25 Feb; Lan, 2 Douglas Water 10 Feb; Wig, max 6 L Ryan 28 Nov. +Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Breeding - little data - 3 prs western most loch in Apr, but only one adult 12 June. Migrants: Midl, 1 Musselburgh 1 Mar, 2 on 17 Mar; E Loth, 3 Gosford 1 Mar; Arg, 1 West L Tarbert 10 Apr; Dunb, ad Fannyside L 29 July - 2 Aug; Lan, 1 Libberton 17 Oct; Arran, 1 Lamlash 27 Aug; Wig, small flock L Ryan where peaks 8 on 11 Jan and 9 on 28 Nov. *Black-browed Albatross Diomedea melanophris Adult again summered on nest at Hermaness gannetry, Shet, 21 Feb - mid Aug (per R.J. Tulloch). This is the 10th season at Hermaness and the 15th season in Scotland if it’s the same bird as the Bass Rock adult. tFulmar Fulmarus glacialis Breeding: Shet, high nos young; Fair Isle very successful season; Ork, further increase; Midl, Ist breeding record (1 egg) Inchmickery and Ist success with young at Holyrood; Ber, further increase with occupation at Burnmouth; Inv, large decrease Canna 394 sites cf to 668 in 1980, but increase Rhum; Ayr, poor success mainland. Blue-phase birds: regular Shet with max 28 Fair Isle 24 Oct; Ork, max 10 Pentland Firth 10 Nov; regular to Aber. Singles twice in E Loth and 1 at Turnberry Point, Ayr 16 June. Passage peaks: Fair Isle peak 1SOOON in 150 mins 13 Oct, (including apparent albino) and 11000N in 100 mins 28 Oct; Caith, 9000N/1 hr Noss Head 3 Oct; Aber, max 4S00N/1 hr Peterhead 30 July. *Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea Three records: Aber, 1 N Peterhead 24 Aug (M. Innes); Ayr, 1 Troon 9 June (J.L. Burton), 1 off Ailsa Craig 11 July (I.P. Gibson, B. Zonfrillo). *Great Shearwater Puffinus gravis Seventeen: very unusual records in Feb when one Fraserburgh 14 Feb (KBS et al) and 2 Heads of Ayr 10 Feb (JJS) (cf Jan-Mar records of Sooty Shearwater in 1979). In autumn, 1 N Peterhead, Aber 21 Aug, 1 S on 10 Sep (MI); Ork, 1 North Ronaldsay 30 Oct (J. Cutt); Arg, 6 between Mull and Coll S Sep (MJPG, AGG), S NW off Tiree in 1 hr 6 Sep (WFC). Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus One N Peterhead, Aber 19 May, otherwise numbers rather low 11 July - 15 Nov. Max counts and passage: Fair Isle 25 July - 23 Oct, max 19 on 29 Sep; Ork, max 20E Brough of Birsay 30 Aug, late birds Hobbister, 8 Nov, Pentland Firth 10 Nov; Caith, max 6SN Noss Head 10 Sep; Aber, max 11N Peterhead 23 July, 25N on 10 Sep, last one 15 Nov; very few Kinc - Ber, max 3 Anstruther, Fife S Sep; Arg, few, max 5S Coul Pt, Islay 30 Aug; Ayr, 3 singles 11 July - 20 Sep. 13 t+Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Breeding: little data: Arg, birds ashore Davaar Is, June but no breeding; Arran, 2 nests Pladda with failed eggs. Counts and passage: Shet/Fair Isle, 12 on crossing 25 July; Caith, max 122N/1 hr Noss Head 18 June; Aber, 5 Apr - 12 Oct, max 220N/2'% hr Peterhead 19 June; Fife Ness 97 on 9 Aug; W Loth, 42W Hound Pt 27 May, numbers generally low, also E Loth; Ber, seen St Abbs 23 June - 5 Oct; Ayr, 800+ Troon 15 June, 1S500S/1 hr Turnberry Pt 10 Sep, last 4 Nov; Dumf, | Caerlaverock 27 Sep. mauretanicus: singles N Peterhead, Aber 30 Aug (MI) and Fife Ness 3 Oct (TD,RWB,IGC, AB). +Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus Breeding: no comments except details of ringing totals from various sites, mainly using tape lures, Shet, estimated 57000 individuals in Shet waters; 394 caught Noss Head, Caith and 300 Strathy Pt, Suth; 39 Portencross, Ayr (max 17 on night of 22 Aug). Birds present Shet mid Mar - 2 Nov. Only passage noted 7S Coul Pt, Islay 24 Aug. Singles Inverness 5 Oct; dead Nethy Bridge, Inv 3 Dec; Buckie, Bantf 4 Oct and Musselburgh, Mid] 20 Sep. tLeach’s Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa Breeding: 7 occupied burrows located at Ramina Stacks, Shet new colony; 993 caught (60 controls) St Kilda Aug. Elsewhere: Fair Isle, | on 20 July, 30n 27 July and one 7 Aug; 1 N Ronaldsay, Ork 20 Sep: Arg, 1 off McCormack Islands 24 Oct; Ayr, 5 (3N, 2S) Troon 20 Sep; Wig, 1 L Ryan 3 Jan. +Gannet Sula bassana Breeding: Fair Isle, 3 new sited colonised and total over 100 prs for Ist time and success was good, ashore 7 Feb - 25 Sep: no data from elsewhere except | ashore Isle of May 25 May. Counts and passage: Aber, max 1250 N/3 hr Peterhead 10 Oct, 1 Lumphanan 10 Jan; W Loth, seen Hound Point 29 Mar - 29 Sep, max 127 on 27 May; Arg, 270S/2 hrs Coul Pt, Islay 29 Sep; Renf, 2 juvs SW Howwood 14 Nov. tCormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Breeding: Shet, average; Ork, census of Eday, Taing Skerry & Boray Holm colonies show decrease to 267 prs from 677 prs in 1976; 214 nests 4 colonies in Forth; 36 nests Fast Castle Head, Ber; 81 nests Portandea coast, Ayr; Kirk, 115 nests Port 0’ Warren; Wig, some nested Mochrum L. Various reports of more inland visitors; max 33 Lochwinnoch, Renf Feb - Mar; 55 L Leven, Kinr 17 Oct. Counts and passage: Fair Isle peaks 120 on 23 Sep, 29 on 26 Oct; E Ross, big tree roost Munlochy Bay feeding Beauly Firth, peaks 800+ on 9 Mar, 500+ on 4 Dec; Forth, 600 Inchgarvie 18 Feb; W Loth, 765 Queensferry 26 Dec. +Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Breeding: Shet, some decrease; Fair Isle below average; Isle of May, Ist eggs 4 Apr, increase to 1221 prs; Inv, high numbers 1139 prs maintained Canna but decrease to 104 nests Rhum; 1200 prs McCormack Islands, Arg no change; 15 prs Ailsa Craig. Counts: 1150 Scatness, Shet, 21 Sep; 1100 Switha - S Walls, Ork, 21 Nov; Aber, 2600N/2 hr Peterhead 1 Nov; Fife, 1700 Anstruther roost flight 12 Oct; Renf, 3 Port Glasgow 21 Dec. *Bittern Botaurus stellaris Three: 1 Dultatur, Dunb, 7 Feb - 14 Mar (SM, WRB et al); 19 Georgetown, Renf 20 Dec (EJHJ, IPG) later died; 1 Gailes, Ayr 22 Dec (JLB). *American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus One Glen Moss, Kilmacolm, Renf 4 Nov to 9 Jan 1982 (D.L. Clugston, J. Cumming et al) is first Scottish record since ¢ Benbecula 27 Dec 1932. *Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Adult Burravoe, Unst, Shet 8-9 May (R. Balharry, J.N. Dymond et a/) and at Whalefirth, Yell 1-3 June (R.J. Tulloch et al) regarded as vagrant. Usual feral colony Edinburgh; ad Kelso 10 Jan and Lindean 1 Feb regarded as feral. 14 *Little Egret Egretta garzetta Three records: 1 Swartmill L, Westray, Ork 29 Oct - 24 Nov (W.A.S. Bews, J. Kent, Mrs. M.A. Scott); 1 Annat, Torridon, W Ross, 30 Apr (C. Atkins, P.S. Loud); 1 Glenuig, Moidart, Inv 29 May - 4 June (C.E.K. Scouller et a). +Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Breeding: Ork, 3 prs reared 9 young; E.Ross, Mun- lochy colony split up; Inv, Lynchat col deserted, 2 prs reared 1 young in Insh Marshes; Angus, 29 prs at 3 cols reared 88 young; Perth, 79 prs at 5 cols with 167 young (mean brood size 2.5) is slightly down on last 2 years; Fife, 113 prs in 8 cols with 192 young (m.b.s. 2.3); Borders, | col 15 nests failed totally in late Apr snow; Dunb/W Stir, decrease to 40 nests L Lomond. Counts: Fair Isle, autumn passage from 14 July, max 15 on 18th and 30 Aug; Perth, 27 Edinample 2 Nov; Ayr, 31 Hunterston 17 Nov. *Purple Heron Ardea purpurea One Weisdale, Shet 4 Oct, found dead Kergord 17 Oct (I. Sandison, I1.G. Davidson er a/). *White Stork Ciconia ciconia Three records: Sanaig, Islay 16 May (S.F. Newton)§ Gryfe reservoir, Renf 19-25 May (D. Carnduff, D.L. Clugston er a/); Cumnock, Ayr 29 May - 19 June (R.H. Hogg, B. McKechnie et a/). All possibly same bird. *Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Two records: Strathbeg, Aber 10 June (J. Dunbar); Montrose Basin, Angus 11 June (N. Benvie, G.M. Crighton). *{Chilean Flamingo Phoenicopterus chilensis Aber, one Strathbeg all year; seen at Ythan on 7 Jan. tMute Swan Cygnus olors Breeding: good season in N and E, broods of 9 reared Angus and Perth; 16 prs reared 33 young FE Loth; 25 prs reared 68 young in Midl; Kirk, no cygnets from 8 nests L. Ken. Counts: Shet, 7 arrived Skerries 16 May moved to Fetlar 16-17 May and Unst 18 May, increased to 11, dispersed throughout Shet after 4 June, still 6 Spiggie 4 Oct; Ork, max 183 L of Stenness 16 Dec; Aber, 314 Strathbeg 14 Sep; Isle of May, 7 on 23 Aug; Ber, 200 Coldstream Sep. Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus Winter - spring: wintering flock Caerlaverock, Dumf max 68 in Jan - Feb, last 2 on 4 Apr; E Loth, 3 North Berwick 1 Jan - 21 Feb, 2 Drem to 1 Mar. Autumn: 4 arrived Caerlaverock, Dumf 19 Oct, 21 in Nov, increase to 61 on 3 Dec, max 65 on 15th; Kirk, 2 L Ken 17-25 Oct, 16 Nov; Wig, 5 L Ryan 8 Nov; Ayr, single Prestwick 16 Oct, Shewalton 27 Nov - 4 Dec; Lan, 1 Possil 7 Oct, 3 Summerston 19 Nov - 4 Dec, 40n 26th; W Stir, 1 Dumbreck 5 Dec; Arg, 2 Tayinloan 24 Dec; E Loth, 5 Drem 24 Nov; Fife, 8 Ballo Res 7 Dec; Aber, 2 Strathbeg 26 Nov, 1 Ythan 2 Dec; O Heb, 3 N Uist 22 Oct. Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Feral flock 12 Endrick Mouth, Dunb 26 Apr, down to 6in July, 1 in Aug, 1 pr returned with 2 young. No reports in wild but summering birds Shet, Ork (4), Inv (2), Aber (2), Angus (4), Fife, Midl, Kirk (4). Winter - Spring: Ork, 95 Shapinsay 23 Mar; Inv, 176 Insh 18 Mar, last 3 on 4 May; Aber, 302 Strathbeg 15 Feb; Midl, 52 Cobbinshaw 14 Mar; Borders, 210 Allanton 21 Jan; Renf, 132 Stanely Res 4 Jan; Wig, 120 Moss of Cree 3 Jan; Dumf, 76 Caerlaverock Jan-Feb, last 15 N on 22 Mar. Autumn: national sample (2422) gave 14.5% juveniles. Shet, 7 Catfirth 22 Sep; Fair Isle, 8 on 22 Sep, 16 on 29th; Ork, 5 Clumly 16 Sep, 8 N Ronaldsay 23 Sep, more 30th, Ork count gave 600+ on 7-8 Nov; Caith, 20 Thurso 24 Sep, max 322 L Wester 25 Oct; Ross, Ist L Eye 20 Sep, max 405 on 10 Oct; Inv, 184 L Flemington 15 Nov, Ist 6 Insh 6 Oct, max 152 on 4 Dec; Aber, 22 Strathbeg 23 Sep, max 519 on 17 Oct, 15 most gone in Dec; Borders, Ist 5 St Abbs 5 Oct, census of 3 inland counties 85 on 5 Dec; Arg, 116 Sunderland, Islay 13 Oct; Renf, 6 Stanely res 13 Sep, max 140+ on 28 Nov; Dumf, Ist 9 Caerlaverock 5 Oct, max 126 on 15 Dec. Bean Goose Anser fabalis Winter: Dumf, 5 Caerlaverock 16 Feb; Kirk, 4 Crocketford 27 Mar, 1-2 L Ken 11-19 Apr; Lan, 13 Libberton 23 Jan and 1 Summerston 30 Mar; W Stir, 73 Carron Valley res 8-15 Feb, 67 on 22 Feb; Renf, 1 Balgray 31 Mar. Autumn: a very interesting arrival of Scandinavian birds. Shet, 3 Skerries 30 Sep, 1S Unst 15-19 Oct, 12 on 9 Nov; 1-3 at 5 other sites 21 Oct - 22 Nov; Fair Isle, 5-6 present 8-16 Oct; Ork, 6 Shapinsay 16-20 Oct, 3 Tankerness 16 Nov; 0 Heb, max 12 Lewis 8 Oct, others into Dec; Caith, 1S Scarmclate 11 Oct, 10 Halkirk 17 Oct; E Ross, 5L Eye 17 Nov, 2 Saltburn 29 Nov, up to 25 wintered Munlochy - Tore 28 Oct into 1982; Aber, 1 Slains 1-8 Nov, 1 Strathbeg 28 Nov; Angus, 1-2 Montrose Nov - Dec; Perth, 1 Findo Gask 7 Nov; Arg, 13 W Carrabus, Islay 14-18 Nov; Ayr, 3 Monchrum L 30 Dec; Kirk, 12 Gelston 25 Dec, 38 on 26 Dec; Wig, 8 Moss of Cree 31 Dec. Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Winter-spring: Dumf, 5000 Caerlaverock mid Feb, last 70 on 11 May; Wig, 2000 Moss of Cree 1 Mar; Ber, 3500 W Linton 26 Feb; E Loth, 4870 Aberlady 6 Jan, last 3 May; Midl, 7000 Fala 12 Apr; Aber, passage 4180S Aberdeen 6 Jan, 6000 Strathbeg 31 Jan, 11100 Ythan 14 Mar, last 30 on 12 May; Ross, spring peak 3000 Nigg 19 Apr, last 4 May. Summer: Perth, 1 ad 7 July where pr in June 1980; Angus, injured pr nest building Forfar Loch. Autumn national count 7-8 Nov 71210 (UK total 90000) is down on 1980 with more in England; peak areas Perth/Kinr. 15530, Borders 13780, Loth 13240, Aber 13200; sample (4000) gave 15.7 young with mean brood size 1.9. Arrivals and other counts: Shet, Ist 7 Sep, max 300+ Whalsay 1 Oct; Fair Isle 120 on 22 Sep; Ork, main passage 29 Sep; Inv/Ross, Ist flocks 20-22 Sep; Aber, 20 Strathbeg 11 Sep, 1000 by 22 Sep, large arrival 29th; Perth, Ist 9 Dunning 6 Sep, more 20th; Kinr, 12460 L Leven 17 Oct; Midl, Ist 21 Gladhouse 8 Sep; Lan, 1500 Carnwath 1 Nov; Kirk, 2500 Auchencairn 28 Dec. White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Winter-spring: Wig, 250 West Freugh 11 Jan; Kirk, 216 L Ken 30 Mar, last 20 Apr; Arg, 450 Machrihanish 15 Jan; small nos in E; Caith, 220 Westfield 6 Apr; Ork, 25 Tankerness 29 Jan; Shet, 1 Scatsta 26 May. Summer: ad with 3 Canada Goose hybrid young Beauly Firth, Inv 7 July. Autumn: Ork, Ist 4N Ronaldsay 9 Oct, 40 Sleet Moss 25 Nov; Caith, 85 Noss Head 6 Oct, 170 L Calder 17 Oct; Ross, 63 L Eye 16 Nov; Perth, 7 Tibbermore 30 Oct; Arg, $70 Tayinloan 24 Dec; Dunb, 124 Endrick Mouth 18 Oct; Kirk, Ist 12 L Ken 30 Sep is early, max 330 on 9-14 Nov, all departed Dec freeze-up; Wig, 480 West Freugh 5 Dec. European birds: Aberlady, E Loth 28 Dec; Perth, 7 Dunning 29 Mar; Aber, Strathbeg 4 Feb, 21 Mar, 2 Girdleness 11 Oct; Caith, 5 Dale 15-19 Oct; Shet, 1 Unst 15-20 Oct. +Greylag Goose Anser anser Breeding: no data from wild populations: feral birds; Perth, 60 ads + 98 juvs LTummel 14 June; Angus, small nos Forfar; Midl, increase and expansion from Duddingston flock; Inv, pr with 4 young Canna; usual SW colonies. Winter - spring: Shnet, 67 Spiggie 24 Feb, 78 on 6 Apr; Ross, 7000 Fearn 7 Jan, 5000 on 13 Apr, 10000 Beauly Firth 30 Jan - high numbers overwintered; Aber, 5000Strathbeg 26 Jan, most departed mid-Apr; Renf, 865 Barr Loch 24 Jan; Ayr, 850 Barlaugh 25 Mar; Kirk, 1500 Crocketford 27 Mar. Autumn national count 7-8 Nov 90570 (UK total 96000) is a further increase; peak areas Ross 27400, Perth/Kinr 15030, Aber 15880, Inv 5300, Caith, 4300; sample 2000 gave 13.9% young with mean brood size 2.0. Abundant spilt grain meant high numbers remained in the north. Counts and passage: Shet, from 29 Sep, max 16 1000+ Fetlar 26 Oct; Fair Isle, Ist 59 on 22 Sep, heavy passage 29 Sep - end Oct, peaks 150 on 13th, 120 on 31st; Ross, lst L Eye 29 Sep, up to 25000 on 10 Oct, further increase to 38900 on 17 Nov (record count), decrease in late Nov - Dec, 9800 Beauly Firth 7 Nov; Aber, 41 Meikle 21 Sep, max 7000 Haddo 28 Nov, most left in Dec snows; Borders, large numbers moved S in Dec; Renf, 278S Kilmacolm 18 Dec; Ayr, very large S cold weather movements 13-16, large numbers in S Ayr, 2240 Maybole 31 Dec; Kirk, 1300 L Ken 5 Dec, but only 140 remained by 29 Dec when most had gone south. +Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus 1 Montrose Basin, Angus during year; Aber, 1 arrived Strathbeg 30 Sep with Pinkfet, 1 Cotehill late Oct. *(+)Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Feral Flock: Arg, 57 Treshnish, Mull 20 Jan, 12 West Jura 20-28 Jan. Other records: Shet, Lerwick 13 Oct, Levenwick 10-20 Nov; O Heb, 2 summered Uists; Caith, 1 Heilen and 1 Calder 10 Jan; Suth, 1 blue with Barnacle Geese Kylestrome 22 Jan; Ross, ad Greater wintered Saltburn 29 Nov, Nigg 1 Dec; Aber, Blackburn 8 Mar, Monymusk 20-24 Mar, 2 Strathbeg 17 Oct - 28 Novy; Perth, blue Tibbermore 11 Jan and Carsebreck 22 Novy; Kinr, blue L Leven 27 Oct; Borders, Whitton L 29 Mar; Lan, blue Carmichael 10 Feb; Wig, Stranraer 23 Feb; Kirk, blue Kirkconnell Merse 15 Mar; Dumf, Caerlaverock 5-9 Mar. SW oldyyyom — Misys +Canada Goose Branta canadensis Breeding: Renf, 62 including young Rowbank Res July - Aug; no reported changes SW. English moult migration: Ist Beauly Firth, Inv/Ross mid May; 200 by 31 May, peak 1100 in June - July, many departed mid Aug. Migration - peaks: Ork, 23S S Ronaldsay 23 June, 1 Glims Holm 10 Oct; O Heb, 9N Balranald 18 June; Caith, 1-2 Apr - May and Sep - Nov; Suth, 1 Melvich 5 June; Inv, 20 Insh 30 May, 80S on 15 Aug, 68 on 20th; Aber, 30N Dinnet 7 June; Angus, 50 Monikie 18 Jan, small flocks 30 May - 22 June and 15 Aug - Sep; Isle of May 39 on 3 June; Midl, SON Milton Bridge 16 June, 70S Cousland 6 Aug. More scattered records than usual: also 1 small race (probably minima) with Barnacle Geese S Walls, Ork 20 Mar. Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Solway flock: max 7000+ Caerlaverock 29-31 Jan, moved to English side early Mar, 2800 back by 23 Apr, 4000 left Rockcliffe and 1000 left Caerlaverock on 2-3 May, last 100 left on 9th; Ist 60 on Caerlaverock 1 Oct, increases to 1200 on 3rd, 4700 on 4th, 7000 on Sth, peak 8300, very poor season, only 3.2% young. Islay flock 14800 in Nov. Elsewhere 600+ Treshnish, Arg 20 Apr, 650 Danna, Arg 21 Nov; 352 S Walls, Ork 28 Mar, 402 on 16 Oct. 17 Passage: Shet, 13 Skerries 3 May; Fair Isle 55 on 4 Oct; Ork, 13 Papa Westray 11 May; Ross, 16L Eye 17 Nov; Aber, 54N Peterhead 3 May; Angus, 38N Easthaven 24 Apr; Perth, 30 Tibbermore 7 Nov; Midl, 60 Edinburgh and 160 Musselburgh 4 Oct; Lan, 20 Libberton 31 Oct; Ayr, SSN Troon 3 Oct. Brent Goose Branta bernicla D .= dark-bellied B.b. bernicla, P = pale-bellied B.b. hrota Peak counts and migration: Shet, 1D Fetlar 6 June; Ork, 1P S Walls 28 Mar; O Heb, 90P Barra 15 Sep; Suth, 17P Tongue 6 Sep; Banff, 10 Portgordon 23 Dec; Aber, 4D S Peterhead 13 Feb; Fife, 5 Tayport 27 Sep; Isle of May 9 on 4 Oct; W Loth, 3P Hound Pt 6 Sep; E Loth, 7 Scoughall 3 May, 5D Aberlady 21 Sep, 27P on 21-27 Dec; Ber, 11 St Abbs 20 Dec; Peeb, 1 West Water 14 Nov; Arg, 25P Gruinart, Islay autumn. tEgyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus One Linlithgow, W Loth 15-19 Apr. tRuddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea One Ythan, Aber 28 June (MI) and Strathbeg 4 July (JD). +Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Breeding: Aber,.51 prs Ythan, 220 young of which 44 survived to 40 days old; E Loth, very poor season Aberlady; Ber, pr Pease Bay May - Aug suggest nesting which would be new; Inv, 2-3 prs nested Canna, unsuccess- ful; Dunb, very poor season L Lomond, only 10 young. Moulting flock Kinneil 1990 on 29 Aug. Counts and migration: Inv, 1 L Insh 18-22 Aug, 168 Castle Stuart 31 Dec; Perth, 1 Lake of Menteith 22 May; Fife, 1604 Eden est 14 Feb; Stir, 1600 Grangemouth 3 Jan; E Loth, 163 Aberlady 23 Dec; Arg, 210 L Gruinart 19 Feb; Dunb/Renf, very low nos, only 83 on 18 Jan, rising to 376 by 22 Mar. +Mandarin Duck Ai galericulata Perth, max 30 in Dec, feral population; Aber, Banchory - Devenick 30 Nov - 6 Dec; Ber, small numbers, including possible nesting in wild, Eye Water/Grantshouse. +Wigeon Anas penelope Breeding: no comments main areas butd, 2 °2and 2 young at L Ardinning, W Stir 30 May. Counts and migration: Shet, 130 Whalsay 13 Sep; Ork, 600 Deerness 24 Sep; Ross, 4000 Udale 3 Nov; Aber, 1040 Ythan 13 Dec; Angus, 1500 Montrose 16 Sep; Kinr, 1612 L Leven 18 Feb; W Loth, 46W Hound Pt 30 Aug; E Loth, 500 Aberlady 21 Dec, 750 Tyninghame 27 Dec (record during shooting ban); Arg, 213 Lochdon, Mull 15 Nov; Ayr, 750 Bogside 11 Jan; Wig, 500 L Ryan 4 Jan; Dumf, 885 Caerlaverock 15 Feb. *American Wigeon Anas americana Two records: ¢ Udale Bay, Ross 3-17 Jan (R.H. Dennis, Mrs M.T. Dennis et a/); 3 Alturlie Bay, Inv 9-11 Nov (C. McCarty, F.L. Symonds, R.A. Broad). +Gadwall Anas strepera Breeding: Ork, 1 pr bred N Ronaldsay, 7 young on 7 July; Angus, 4 prs bred Kinnordy fledged 17 young, 1 pr Balgavies, 4 young on 6 June; Stir, 1 pr bred Carron valley res, with young 14 June; no data from O Heb, Perth, Fife and Kinr. Peak counts: Shet, max 3 Scatness 2-13 May; Fair Isle, one 2 Apr; Inv, o Glen Truim 26 May; Aber, 4 Meikle 10 May; Ber, 5 Hirsel 18 Oct; Renf, 12 Walton Dam 12 Oct; Lan, 5 Gadloch 11 Oct; Dumf, max 17 on 15 Nov. : +Teal Anas crecca Breeding: Shet, further increase to 3 pairs, no changes elsewhere. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, heavy passage 8-15 Sep, max 63 on 11th; Ork, 200 Gairsay 29 Jan; Ross, 1180 Munlochy Bay 13 Dec, 1200 L Eye 28 Noy; Inv, 500 Insh 19 Oct (best ever); Aber, 820 Strathbeg 28 Jan; Isle of. May, 40 on 3 Oct; Fife, 1400 Morton L 10 Oct; Kinr, 2063 L Leven 14 Sep; Arg, 240 Lochdon, Mull 25 Sep; W Stir, 744 Carron Valley res 18 Oct; Ayr, 701 Bogside 17 Jan. 18 Green-winged Teal carolensis: Six; Shet, ¢ Sandwater 14 Mar - 4 Apr (C. Kightley etal),o Fetlar 5S Apr (J.N. Dymond); Suth, ¢ The Mound 28 Jan (D.M. & J. Edge); Ross, ¢ Dalmore 17 Dec (C. McCarty); ¢ Inverness, 29 Dec - 10 Jan, 1982 (RH Dennis et a/); Lan, ¢ Libberton 31 Oct - 7 Nov (Sir R. Erskine-Hill, N. Darroch). +Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Breeding: Ork, Ist young 22 Apr; Angus, 55 prs Kinnordy reared 70-100 young; Fife, lst young 27 Mar; E Loth, good season; Borders, eariy failures due to snow; Kirk, good success. Counts: Caith, 980 L Watten 18 Jan; Moray, 1360 L Spynie 18 Oct; Aber, 2600 Strathbeg 13 Jan, 1750 on 16 Nov; Perth, 1200 Drummond Pond 2 Jan; Kinr, 3686 L Leven 14 Sep; Midl, 1000 Threipmuir 7 Nov; Dunb/Renf, low nos Clyde est, max 429 on 13 Dec; Ayr, 900 Barassie 26 Dec. *Black Duck Anas rubripes Adult ¢ North Kessock, Ross 11 Oct to March 1982, sometimes on Inverness side (P.W. Ewins, R.H. Dennis et a/). ¢Pintail Anas acuta Breeding: Ork, bred 3 sites; Caith, pr nested, 2° with 7 young 28 June; Fife, 9 with 3 young Cameron res 13 Sep; Kirk, 2 anxious?9°s L Ken July. Counts of main flocks and passage: Shet, max 6 Spiggie 7 May; Fair Isle max 4 on 11-12 Oct; Ross, 330 Nigg 28 Nov; Inv, 46 Phophacy 10 Jan, 129 on 15 Nov; Aber, 7 Rattray 14 Mar; Isle of May 8 on 19 Oct; Stir, 80 Grangemouth 7 Jan; W Loth, 206W Hound Point 6 Sep; Renf/Dunb, Clyde max only 16 on 18 Jan; Kirk, 270 Fininess 17 Oct; Dumf, 300 Caerlaverock 18 Jan, low nos max 550 on 27 Sep due to clean harvest, rapid decrease later max only 180 on 23 Nov. *Garganey Anas querquedula At least 17 in spring 27 Apr - 7 June: Ayr, ¢ New Cumnock 22 May; Lan, ¢ SCP 23 May; Dunb,¢ Endrick Mouth 9 May; E Loth, 1 Aberlady 13 May; Aber.¢ Strathbeg 13-22 May 3°oDon est 13 May,1 on 14th; Inv, 2 Boat of Garten 7 June; OHeb,29Balranald 12-14,¢ Peninerinel June, 2¢¢ Torlum 6 June; Ork,¢ Brodgar 27 Apr, seen various sites to Papa Westray 2 June; Shet, ¢ Spiggie 9 May and Hillwell 13-14 May. Autumn: @ Clickhimin, Shet 23 Sep, 1d and 32 9on 24-25th. +Shoveler Anas clypeata Breeding: Ork, nesting confined 4 sites; O Heb, 8-13 prs nested Balranald; Angus, 20 prs Kinnordy reared 30+ young; Renf, and ducklings Barr Loch; Kirk, 9 prs L Ken, 2 broods seen. Counts: Shet, scattered records 14 Mar - 19 Sep; Ork, max 23 N Ronaldsay 24 Oct; Aber, 32 Strathbeg 18 Sep; Angus, 136 Kinnordy 13 Aug; Perth, 11 Stormont 5 Nov; W Loth, 11E Hound Point 14 Mar; Mid!, 17 Duddingston 18 Oct; Borders, 22 Hoselaw 14 Jan, 169 on 7 Nov is record count there; Dunb, 100 Endrick Mouth mid Oct; Lan, 20 Possil Marsh 25 Aug; Kirk, 45 Fininess 21 Aug. & 19 +Pochard Aythya ferina Breeding: Angus, 6 prs bred Kinnordy reared 7 young was only report. Counts: Shet, SO Brow 11 Jan: Ork, 900 Stenness 18 Jan, 1061 L of Boardhouse 28 Oct, 1613 L of Harray 1 Dec; Aber, 550 Strathbeg 16 Nov is low; Fife, 700 Largo Bay 27 Nov; Kinr, 1029 L Leven | Dec; Midl, Duddingston peaks only 500+ on 11 Jan and 93 on 28 Noy (cf to 6-8000 in mix 70's); Renf, 200 Lochwinnoch 31 Aug. *Ring-necked Duck Ayrhya collaris Seven: Shet,? Snarravoe, Unst 12 Feb - 2 Mar I. Spence) and Cullivoe 13 Mar (J.N. Dymond), * Tingwall/Asta 23 May - 19 June (J.D. Okill, D. Coutts et a/), imm o L of Brow 1 Nov - 6 Dec (D.P.P. Eva et al); Inv, SInsh marshes from 1980 present 1 Jan - 31 Mar and returned 10 Nov (R. Leavett er al); Arg, o Ford 7-8 Mar (D-. Barber, H. Robb, M.J.P. Gregory); Lan, Gadloch/ Woodend L 18 Jan - 21 Feb (B. Zontrillo et a/); Wig, ¢ Soulseat L 4 Jan - 1 Feb and 15 Noy - 13 Dec (B.C. Forrester, D.L. Clugston, R.H. Hogg eral). *Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca 3 Birsay, Ork 24 May was first for Ork (G.T. and Mrs M. Wylie). +Tufted Duck Ayrthya fuligula Breeding: Inv, 16 broods Insh totalled 47 juvs 14 July is low; Angus, 35 prs Kinnordy reared 45+ young; Borders, poor season, many failures; Renf, very low nos Kilmalcolm (1+ pr cf. 14 prs in 1977). Counts: Fair Isle, record max 8 on 16-17 May, 12W on 28 Sep; Ork, 2450 L of Stenness 15 Dec; Aber, 1350 Strathbeg 17 Oct; Kinr, 4560 L Leven 14 Sep; Inv, 803 Ness mouth 13 Dec is highest ever; Renf, 780 Lochwinnoch 31 Aug; Ayr, 126 Prestwick 25 Dec. Scaup Aythya marila Summer records Ork (7), O Heb (5), Suth (1), Aber (4), Inv (3),. Dunb (1), Ayr (2) but no confirmed breeding. Counts: Ork, 85 L of Harray 2 May, spring passage reflected elsewhere; Ross, 350 Edderton 19 Nov; Inv, 7 Insh 30 Sep is unusual; Isle of May 4 on 24 Sep; Fife, 2055 Leven 27 Jan, 1090 on 1 Dec, 2650 Methil 31 Dec; Midl, Seafield 25 Dec; Arg, 800 L Indaal, Islay 18 Feb; Renf, 150 Woodhall 14 Feb; Ayr, 61 Prestwick 22 Feb, 96 on 25 Dec; Kirk, 330 Carsethorn 29 Apr, 400 on 8 Nov. tEider Somateria mollissima Breeding: Fair Isle Ist incubating 15 May, average season; Aber, late season, c2000 prs nested Ythan, mean clutch size 4.3 and 80% hatching success, about 400 ducklings (7%) survived; Isle of May 209 prs bred with good success. Counts: Shet, moult count 8000 (still lower than mid 70’s); Fair Isle 1018 on 19 Aug; Suth, peak 2400 L Fleet 7 Nov; Aber, 6000 Ythan early May is record no, 9700 Blackdog 11 Aug;. Angus/Fife, 12500 Tay est 22 Jan, 10445 Tay est to Kirkcaldy 27 Nov; Midl, 1500 Musselburgh 8-14 Nov; E Loth, 3000 Dirleton - Aberlady 4 July; Renf, 3600 Port Blasgow 29 Oct; Ayr, 2000+ Turnberry - Girvan 5 Aug. Ac showing characters of northern race S.m. borealis found dead Scapa Bay, Ork 22 Apr (E.R. Meek, W. Wood); a similar record has been accepted o dead Musselburgh, Midl 2 Sep, 1978 (G.F. Miller, D.S. Raines). *King Eider Somateria spectabilis Shet, ¢ Sullom Voe 3 Mar - Jan 82 (M. Heubeck et al); Fair Isle ¢ 15-20 Oct (N.J. Riddiford et a/); Suth, Embo - Golspie Jan - Dec, another o at times, e.g. Mar and 14 Nov L Fleet when also possible hybrid (P.J. Ewins, A.R. Mainwood et al); Aber, o Blackdog 11-23 June (R.A. Schofield et al); Renf, 7 Port Glasgow 14 Nov - 19 Dec (R.H. Hogg et al); Wig, ¢ L. Ryan 4 Nov (I.H. Leach). *Steller’s Eider Polysticta stelleri Two: o again summered Papa Westray/Westray 7 May - 24 June (S. Davies, D. Lea, E.R. Meek et a/); call year Peninerine, S Uist, O Heb (J.J. Gordon et al). 20 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Counts: Shet, 448 Bluemull - Colgrave 22 Jan; Ork, still 24 S Ronaldsay 17 June; Moray firth, 4000 off Nairn, 1000 Geanies, E Ross and 3000 Burghead/Spey Bay 1-16 Nov; Inv, 1 L Insh 9 Nov; Fife, 261 Largo Bay 31 Dec; Midl, 142 Musselburgh 8 Mar, 160 on 26 Dec; E Loth, 191 Gullane 1 Mar; Ayr, 10 Dipple 15 Feb; Wig, 3 L Ryan 31 Jan; Kirk, 1 L Ken 28 Jan. Summer records Shet, Ork and Aber (1). +Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Breeding: present but no data Shet; Caith, as usual; Inv, present 4 sites data incomplete; Perth, 5 prs one site, 4 young seen 12 July, 1¢ at another site; Dunb/W Stir, 5% prs L Lomond but no young seen. Counts: Ork, 7 Papa Westray 15 Feb; Caith, 30 Sinclair’s Bay 5 Apr; Suth, ‘1020 Dornoch 19 Nov; 1900+ off Nairn 19 Nov, 3400 Spey Bay, Moray 19 Nov; Aber, 2000 moulting Blackdog 29 June, moved N later to 3300 Balmedie - Drums 6 Aug; Isle of May 16 on 1 Aug; Fife, 490 Largo Bay 12 Mar, 1600 Kinshaldy 14 Mar but nos low St Andrew; Midl, 280 Musselburgh 18 May; E Loth, 800 Gullane 3 Dec; Ber, 60 St Abbs 10 July; Arg, 200 Tayinloan 29 Nov; Wig, 32 L Ryan 11 Jan. *Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata Suth, ¢ Golspie 1 Feb - 16 Apr, Embo 14 Nov (A.R. Mainwood et al); Moray,¢ Speymouth 22 Apr - 5 May (C. Parnell, K. Proud et al); Aber, ¢ Blackdog - Balmedie 18 June - 22 Aug, 2%%on20 June (P. Fisher, M.V. Bell et al); Fife,¢ Shell Bay 25 Apr - 2 May (P.M. Ellis e¢ al). Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca Counts: Ork, 12 St Ola 27 Jan, last pr Papa 13 May, 110 Inganess Bay 31 Aug; Moray, 100 Spey Bay 19 Apr, 90 on 13 Dec; Aber, 235 Blackdog 24 Aug; Fife, 450 Shell Bay 9 May, very few St Andrews; Midl, 25 Musselburgh 18 Jan; E Loth, 150 Aberlady 19 Sep; Arg, 18 Tayinloan 29 Nov; Ayr, 3 Prestwick 25 Dec. +Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Breeding: continued increase: females laid in 42 nests (1 natural hole); 29 were successful hatching 286 young, of which at least 97 juveniles survived. Summering birds Shet to Borders but no other proof of nesting. Counts: Ork, 276 Stenness 16 Dec; Caith, 100 Wick 12 Dec; Inv, 462 Inverness 1 Feb; N Kinc, 261 Girdleness 27 Jan; Angus, 220 Dighty 2 Jan; Fife, 535 Largo Bay 16 Feb, 130 Kilconquhar L 5 Apr, still 80 on 12 May; Kinr, 281 L Leven 11 Dec; Borders, 151 on Teviot between Nisbet and Kalemouth 18 Jan; Renf, 425 Langbank 1 Apr; Ayr, 380 Dipple 23 Jan; Wig, 50 L Ryan 30 Dec. *Smew Mergus albellus Redheads unless stated, about 34 winter-spring: Shet, Sullom 6 Jan; Inv, Beauly Firth 10-14 jan; Aber, 3 in Jan-Apr, pr Strathbeg 23-24 May, 1 Girdleness 10 May; Angus, Monikie 26 Mar - 26 Apr; Perth, 1 Drummond 15 Mar; Clack, 1 Gartmorn 11 Jan; Midl, pr Gladhouse 21 Apr; Borders, total 7 (3°) 7 sites 10 Jan - 12 Mar; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 21 Feb, 12 Apr; Renf, ¢ Woodhall 9 Feb, 1 Castle Semple L 12-13 Feb; Ayr, Martnaham L 1 Jan - 28 Mar, Ayr, 9-16 Feb; Kirk, 1-2 L Ken 8-19 Jan; Wig, Soulseat 4-11 Jan. Summer: o W Stir 1-29 May, redhead Langbank 11 July - 29 Sep. Autumn 14 records: Ork, Stenness 15-16 Dec; Inverness 24-27 Dec; Aber, Strathbeg 22-31 Dec, Aberdeen 27-28 Dec; Cameron res 17-25 Oct; Borders, ¢ Kelso 5-20 Dec, 2 Alemoor 15 Nov; Renf, ¢ Langbank 19 Nov; Lan, 5 Libberton 17 Oct; Ayr, 1 at 3 sites 25 Oct - 28 Dec; Kirk, 1-2 L Ken 7 Nov - Dec. +Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Breeding: increase to 3-4 prs Borders; Kirk, some evidence of increase. Counts: Fair Isle max 8 on 12 Oct; Ross/Iny, Beauly Firth flock peaked 2250 on 10 Jan, 650 on 15 Nov, also 400 Riff Bank 19 Nov; Kinc, 600 St Cyrus 23 Aug; Fife, 300+ Cultness 22 Feb - 9 Apr; Midl, 400 Musselburgh 30 Sep; Arg, 204 Fishnish, Mull 10 Aug; Ayr, 93 Dipple 29 Aug. 21 +Goosander Mergus merganser Breeding: no comments except 9 with 5 young L Spelve 15 June Ist proof nesting Mull. Counts: Fair Isle passage 17-22 Oct, max 4 on 17th; O Heb, 11 Lewis 17 Jan; Ross/Inv, Beauly Firth peaks 1510 on 10 Jan, 1258 on 14 Nov, 174 moulting Inverness 16 Aug, 1 Rhum S Dec, 8 Torrin, Skye 28 May; Moray 43 moulting Spey Bay 6 Sep; Aber, 74 Skene 1 Feb, 109 on 22 Nov; Kinr, 33 L Leven 11 Dec; Clack, 35 Tullibody Inch 26 Dec; Midl, 30 Moorfoot res 24 Jan; E Loth, 21 Whiteadder res 4 Oct; Borders, 227 at main roost early Dec; Renf, 34 Glanderston 2 Jan; Ayr, 25 Glenbuck 31 Jan. *+tRuddy Duck Oxyuru jamaicensis Continued increase: Angus, 1 pair Kinnordy 2 Apr - 1 Nov, 2nd pr from 27 June, 1 pr hatched broods of 2 and 3 but all lost; 1 Lintrathen 15-29 Nov; Aber,10(6°° (3 Ist year),4°9) Meikle Loch 9-11 May (RAS et al); Perth, 6%°Stormont Loch 3-5 May, 1 on 7 June (EDC, SRH, JK), 1 pr Flanders Moss 1 June - 30 July (WRB, DK). Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus Very good numbers: Shet, singles Fetlar 25 May, Bressay 30 May probably same as found dead Gulberwick, Dale 4 June, Mid-Yell 9 July, Whalsay 11 July, Scalloway 19 Sep; Fair Isle 9-19 July, 11 Sep, 19 Sep; Ork, singles Evie 20 May, N Ronaldsay 27 May, Kirkwall 23 June, Evie 10 July, Birsay 19 Sep and Wideford Burn 22 Sep; Inv, singles L Garten August; Aber, 1 Deeside 9 May and 4 on 30 May, 1 Strathbeg 4 June, 1 off sea Aberdeen 21 Sep; Angus, 1 Crombie end Sep; Fife, 1 Eden est 4 Oct; Midl, 1 Cousland 29 May, 1 Musselburgh 28 Sep; E Loth, 1 Barnsness 13 Sep; Ber, 1 St Abbs 21 Sep. White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla Re-introduction project continued Rhum, Inv where 5S juveniles released: survival of earlier birds very good and 25-30 located living wild in Western Highlands; also singles reached Vidlin, Shet 5-31 Dec; Fair Isle 7 Apr; Caith, imm found dead (poisoned) Rumster 13 Apr, another found dead Dunvegan, Skye in Nov; one The Oa, Islay 22 Mar. *Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus About 16 in spring and 4 in autumn: Ork, singles Birsay 19 May, L of Banks 21st, Orphir 5 June, L of Banks 29 June, (dead) Deerness 27 May, Holm 17-19 Sep; Aber, pr Strathbeg 14 May, 9 to 28th,¢ New Blyth 5 Nov; Angus, ? Montrose Basin 5 July, Kinnordy 25 May and 27 Sep; Fife, ¢ Morton Lochs 15-18 May; Midl, 9 Threipmuir 13-24 May, Holyrood 13 May,? Moorfoots 17 May; E Loth, singles Aberlady 8 May and Hailes 29 May; Borders, Pot Loch 5 Aug; Renf, 2 Barr Loch 16 May. +Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Breeding: Ork, 57 nests (plus 8 repeats) in study area fledged 39 young; Ayr, 292s reared 10 young at central site; Bute, 4 prs reared 12 young; Kirk, very bad year, 7-10 prs, only one pr with eggs, none hatched, possibly due to late severe snow. Shet, singles 23 May, i2th and 31 Oct; Fair Isle poor year singles 28 Sep and 22-29 Dec; Fife, Ork tagged bird at Morton Loch to Apr. +Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Small numbers bred (at least 5 prs successful), and sightings in many counties. Migrants: Ork, N Ronaldsay 6 May - 12 July (Fulmar oiled - died); Arg, « Tobermory 3 Mar. +Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Breeding: Moray 27 prs monitored, 16 prs reared 61 | young; Aber, of 8 sites Turriff, 4 were occupied and all failed; Perth, Dunblane 4 pr, 3 successful reared 10 young. Numbers very high in many areas. Fair Isle 1-3 on 28 dates 26 Mar - 3 June, max 3 on 30 May, autumn singles on 11 days 1 Sep - 26 Nov. +Buzzard Buteo buteo Breeding: Ork, pr bred, 2 young; Inv, 20 occupied territories Glenurquhart, 15 prs laid and reared average 1.8 young which is high; Moray, good season 13 monitored prs reared 35 young; Angus, increase, at least 5 prs breeding 22 cS RS aA in glen; Perth, Borders, Renf and Kirk all report increases. Migrants: Fair Isle one 21 Sep; Aber, obvious arrival Sep (7-8 on coast). *Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus About 11 records: Fair Isle 14 Apr; Ork, Kirkwall 16 Jan, 13 Dec, Birsay 27 May; Caith, Shebster 8 Feb; Angus, Invermark and 2 Glenlethnot 22 Noy; Aber, Invercauld 25 Apr, Strathbeg 21 June, New Pitsligo 7 Nov. +Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos Breeding: average breeding season: Ork, pr reared 2 young; Rhum, 4 prs reared 3 young; Arg, study area, 19 prs laid and 13 prs reared 17 young; SW Scot, 3 prs, 2 prs bred and 1 chick fledged. Elsewhere: Shet, single imm Fetlar 17 Apr - 5 May, then Yell 17 May; Ork, singles Raasay and Mainland; Stir, 1 Airthrey 13 Dec; Peeb, 1 ad all year and Ist year 15 Feb onwards; Ayr, 1 Dunure 31 Aug. tOsprey Pandion haliaetus Another good season: 25 pairs on territory of which 22 prs laid eggs, 20 were successful and reared 42 young. L Garten? 29 Mar, 3 eggs, 2 young; nest No 2, Ist 27 Mar, 3 present 12 Apr, Ist clutch failed due to extra bird, finally single late chick flew; nest No 3, 3 eggs, 1 young; nest No 4, 3 young; Loch of the Lowes, 3 young; nest No 6, 3 eggs, 2 young; nest No 7, 3 eggs, 2 young; nest No 8, only one adult; nest No 9, 3 eggs but damaged by extra bird; next No 11, 3 eggs, 1 young; nest No 13, 2 young; nest No 14, 2 young; nest No 16, one adult; nest No 17, 2 young; nest No 18, 3 eggs, 3 young; nest No 19, pr but no eggs; nest No 20, 2 eggs, 1 young; nest No 21, 3 eggs, 2 young; nest No 24, 3 eggs, 2 young; nest No 25, 3 eggs 3 young; nest No 26, 2 young; nest No 27, eggs taken; nest No 28, 3 young; nest No 30, pr but no eggs; nest No 31, pr but 9° injured and died; nest No 32, 3 eggs, 3 young; nest No 33, one adult; nest No 35, pr but no eggs; nest No 36, 2 young. No birds seen at nests 10, 12, 15, 22, 23, 29 and 34. Birds seen in many areas in spring and summer. Migrants: Shet, Yell 20 May, Virkie 1 June; Fair Isle singles 1st, 12 June, 11th, 19th and 23 Sep; Ork, Birsay 18 May, Sandwick 20th, Evie 21st; OQ Heb, Lewis 26 Sep; Suth, Tongue 19 Sep; Ross, late one L Raa 29 Sep - 6 Oct; E Loth, 2 Tyninghame 16 Sep, 1 Whiteadder late Oct - early Nov; Kirk, juy L Ken 13-23 Sep, was caught and had been ringed Sweden 7 July. tKestrel Falco tinnunculus Breeding: good year Suth and Inv, Ist record Insh, 5 prs Garten reserve; higher nos and good success Moray, Perth, Lan, Arran and Kirk; Ayr, 23 clutches monitored gave average 5 eggs, higher than normal, average 3-4 reared per successful nest. Migration: Shet, small nos (cl2) mid May - early June and about 4S in Sep; Fair Isle, peaks 3 on 16-20 May and 6 on 24-25 Sep; Angus, 10 Arbroath 6 Oct. *Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus Seven: 1Yc Midyell 16 May - 4 June (R.J. Tulloch et a/), 1Y ¢Burrafirth - Haroldswick, Unst 23 May - 7 June (J.H. Isom et al), ad oBixter 27 May (B.P. Walker), 9 Eshaness S June (M. Heubeck), ¢ Weisdale 7 June (G. Bashford, M.S. Chapman); Ork, 1Y ¢ Rousay 30 May - 4 June (D. Lea, J. Yorston); Dunb/W Stir, 9 Endrick Mouth 17-19 May (T. Weir, R.K. Pollock et a/). +Merlin Falco columbarius Breeding: Shet, 12 nests found, 33 young fledged, poor season; Ork, fledging success 1.5 per nest found; Aber, 9 nests, averaged 3.7 eggs and 2.8 young fledged; Borders and SW, poor success. Migrants:.Fair Isle max S on 8 Sep and 14-16 Oct; Caith, 2 Noss Head 3 Oct; Angus, 3-4 Barry Buddon 18 Jan; Isle of May, singles except 2 on 3 Oct. *Hobby Falco subbuteo Twelve: Shet, Whalefirth 3 June (AH); Fair Isle 6-8 June (NR); Ork, N Ronaldsay 3 June; Fife, Eden est 22 Aug (SC), St Andrews 23 Aug 23 Ee (TD), Prior Muir 3 Sep (TCS); E Loth, Aberlady 10 May, (GA), Tranent 15 May (SdP); Ber, St Abbs 2 June (SRW); Ayr, Balkenna 17 May (RHH, MS), Darvel 8 July (CP,RR); Kirk, Balmaghie 5 Nov (IHL). *Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus One Scatsta, Shet 1S Mar (B.P. Walker). {Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus Singles Insh, Inv 22 May (RHH); Channerwick, Shet (JK, RJT). +Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus National census showed further increase and consolidation, population high in many areas but success poor, mainly due to weather and human interference. Shet, 4 prs known, only 1 success reared 3 young; Ork, disappointing season; Highlands, Caith S to Mull and Inv, 271 sites checked, 144-146 prs on territory, poor season 82-86 prs successful reared at least 164 young; Aber, poor season; Perth, of 27 prs monitored, 1S reared 31 young; poor season in Dunb, W Stir/Perth (10 prs, 7 successful, 13 young) and Ayr, Kirk and Dumf due to cold weather in May. Elsewhere; Isle of May one 20-24 Feb, singles Sep - Oct; more lowland records away from nest areas. tRed Grouse Lagopus lagopus Caith, good year; Angus, very poor; Borders, apparent increase in some areas; W Renf, continued decline; Kirk, further decline central area. Records at unusual sites: Ork, 1 Muckle Green Holm 5 Nov; Angus, 1 Redhead 10 Apr; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 29 Sep; Renf, 1 Auchendores res 5 Dec. tPtarmigan Lagopus mutus Aber, 11 broods Cairngorms contained 45 young; Arg, recorded 3 mountains Mull; Arran, increase, max 17 Cioch na h-Oighe 27 Aug. +Black Grouse Jetrao tetrix Caith, 2 Golticlay 14 Apr; no comments northern populations; Angus, 3 Auchterhouse 30 May; Arg, pr Jura 3 Aug; Borders, Ayr, Kirk noted decline where forests maturing but new leks found in new plantations; Arran, 4 Catacol 5 Apr. +Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus Inv/Ross, numbers low in many areas but average Abernethy; Aber, 100 (S4_) Glen Tanar count 31 Oct; Perth, Flanders Moss 7 Apr. +Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Good number of reports south from Moray in the east and Dunb in the west; many introductions e.g. 500 Hensol, Kirk and also many Chukars or hybrids. Largest counts 10 Kirriemuir, Angus 17 Oct and 10 Glen Garr, Perth 6 Dec. +Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Caith, good autumn nos; Moray, continued marked decrease; Aber/Kinc, max 44 Glensaugh Oct; Angus, poor season; Borders, good success. 200 introduced Hensol, Kirk. +Quail Coturnix coturnix Breeding proved Fair Isle, where 4+ arrived in May, 6 newly hatched young seen 31 July and covey 7 flushed 26 Aug; also 2 prs probably bred Coldingham, Ber. Many summering records Shet (2), Ork (7), O Heb (4), Caith (2), Suth (1), Ross (6), Moray (1), Banff (1), Kinc (1), Perth (1), Mid] (4), E Loth (4), Selk (1), Lan (1), Dunb (1), Wig (1), Dumf (1). Also 1 Ting, Shet 9 Oct; Fair Isle last seen 25 Sep; Ork, 2 Shapinsay 30 Oct; Isle of May, one 16 May; Midl, 4 Gorebridge 12 Jan. +Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Shet.* still Unst (6th year), 12 released Tresta Oct; Ork, wild breeding noted; O Heb, 1000 released Lewis 26 July. No other comments of note. tGolden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Continues Kiroughtree Forest, Kirk; 1 Bonnington, Peeb 2 May. tSilver Pheasant Lophura nycthemera Peeb, ¢ Walkerburn July - Nov; 2 Kings- meadows 3-17 Apr. +Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Breeding: Inv, 3-5¢7Insh; Angus, 6+ prs bred Kinnordy; Selk, 8 prs on Hillmires : prs reported various areas. Migrants: Shet, absent 8 May - 24 Sep; Fair Isle, Ist autumn 8 Sep, max 4 on 8 Nov; Isle of May one 5 Oct; W Stir, max 6+ Drumbreck Oct. *Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Shet, one Fetlar 21 Sep (JND), 1 Ulsta 27 Sep, later found dead (RJT); Ork, 1 Birsay 2 Apr (BR); Moray, 1 calling Garmouth 7 July. +Cornerake Crex crex Breeding: Shet, bred Bressay (9 juvs seen Aug), Ist since 1978; Ork, calling birds (20+) and young seen Papa Westray; Inv, 13 calling Canna, probably bred Rhum, 7 Calling Skye; Arg, 18 calling Islay. Also heard calling Caith (5 places), E Ross (1), Stir (3), Renf (1), Ayr (5) including 4 at Aird’s Moss 9 July, Kirk (1) and Dumf (1). Ist arrival Lewis 28 Apr; late records Fair Isle 17 Sep, Vidlin, Shet 3 Nov. tMoorhen Gallinula chloropus Breeding: Shet, pr nested Unst; Inv, continued decline Insh; Angus, 60 prs bred Kinnordy; W Stir, 18+ prs at 5 sites. Counts and migration: Fair Isle, 4 singles 29 Mar - 17 May, few 22 Sep - 22 Dec, max 3 on 14 Oct; Arg, single L Buie 2 Oct and Tobermory late Dec, Ist for Mull since 1977; W Stir, 42 Drumbreck 1 Jan. t+Coot Fulica atra Breeding: E Loth, good breeding season, 4 prs Aberlady most ever; Renf, drastic decrease Lochwinnoch to 3 prs from 17 prs 1980. Counts and passage: some big flocks in Dec in severe weather: Fair Isle one 22 Dec; Inv, 120 on sea Ardersier 16 Nov, 1 Rhum 28 Aug; Aber, 750 Strathbeg 17 Oct; Kinr, 2422 L Leven 14 Sep; Borders, 575 on Teviot between Nisbet and Kalemouth 18 Jan; Dunb, 500 Endrick mouth 13 Dec; Renf, 500 Lochwinnoch 31 Aug; Kirk, 683 L Ken 16 Nov; Wig, 115 L Ryan 13 Dec. 25 *Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis One, first summer, Fair Isle 26-27 Apr; Ist Scottish record of this American species (D.G. Borton, N.J. Riddiford, I.S. Robertson et a/). +Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Breeding: Shet, pr nested Ve Skerries; Isle of May 27 nests, 14 young fledged, first eggs 17 Apr. Passage and counts: Fair Isle, Ist 12 Feb, 30 by 28th, 150 on 18-Mar; Suth, 1600 L Fleet 8 Feb, 13 Sep; Inv, Ist 4 Insh 26 Feb, 150 by 9 Mar; Moray, 3000 Findhorn 10 Jan; Fife, 3700 Eden est 21 Jan; E Loth, 1260 Aberlady 23 Jan; Midl, Musselburgh - Blackness peaks 2342 in Feb, 3331 in Nov; Dunb/Renf, 2987 Clyde est 18 Jan; Ayr, 1354 Barassie 28 Aug, inland arrival Glen Trool 13 Feb, most from 2 Mar; Kirk, 3880 Southwick - Borron Pt 22 Feb; Dumf, 7000 Caerlaverock 17 Nov. * Avocet Recurvisostra avosetta One Snarravoe Loch, Unst 21 Apr (I. Spence). *Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus One found injured Scalloway, Shet 6 Dec, died later (DC) - a most unusual record and the first since 1974. *Little Ringed Plover’ Charadrius dubius Two: singles Barr Loch, Renf 23 Apr (DM) and Townhead res, W Stir 4-S May (ADW,AY). +Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Breeding: Ork, poor season N Ronaldsay; E Loth, nested in agricultural land Dirleton; Arran, 33 prs reared average of 1 young each. Counts and passage: Ork, 135 Sanday 29 Nov; Moray 110 Findhorn 25 Aug; Aber, 350 Ythan 11 May; Fife, 292 Tentsmuir Pt 20 May, 710 Eden est 21 May; E Loth, 500 Tyninghame 17 May, 400 Aberlady 19 May; Ayr, 200 Ardrossan 20 Sep, 320 Barassie 21 Nov. *Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus AQ Ythan, Aber 10-14 May (KBS et al). ¢Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Breeding: usual numbers; poorer success in E Grampians but better than average Cairngorms where some late chicks in Aug; Ist on nest grounds 3 May. Migrants: Shet, 1 Skerries 13-14 Sep; Fair Isle one 25-27 Sep; Inv, 1 Rhum 11 May, 2 on 12th; Fife, 2 Lundin Links 20 Sep; Midl, 3 Middleton 4 May; Ayr, 4-6 Blackcraig Hill 17 May, 1 Barassie 23 Aug; Arran, 1 Beinn Bharrain 7 Sep. +Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Breeding: only changes noted - fewer Rhum, Inv and few areas Kirk/Wig. Counts and migration: Shet, 900+ Fetlar 6 Oct; Fair Isle autumn passage mainly Ist Aug - 21 Oct, max 250 on 22 Sep; Ork, 3000 Sandwick Sep; Aber, return high ground from early Mar, 250 Corgarff 17 Apr, 1400 Cruden Bay 11 Nov; Fife, 1700 Guardbridge 15 Nov; Midl, 1300 Paddockhall 29 Nov; E Loth, 1830 Aberlady 23 Jan; Arg, 2000 Killinallan, Islay 2 Nov; 4000 Heathfield 8 Sep, 3000 Bogside 25 Oct; Kirk, 120 northerns Dee est 5 May; Dumf, 4000 Brow- houses 10 Sep. *Lesser Golden Plover Pluvialis.dominica Juvenile P.d. dominica Aberlady Bay 16-20 Sep (A. Brown, P.R. Gordon et al). Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Shet, max 20 Virkie 21 Sep; Fair Isle, very high nos autumn, 30 on 14 Sep, other peaks 7 on 22nd, 10 on 29th; Ork, 16 Sanday 14 July; O Heb, 13 N Uist May; Moray, 16 Lossiemouth 18 Sep - 14 Nov; 20 Nairn Bar 19 Sep; Aber 32 Ythan 22 Sep, 63 on 16 Oct; Isle of May 4 on 28 Sep; Fife, 600 Eden est 7 Feb; Stir, 80 Skinflats 17 Oct; Mid], 25 Musselburgh 1 Feb, 41 on 21 Nov; E Lott 267 Aberlady 5 Mar, 12 summered, 340 on 24 Sep, 245 Tyninghame 24 Oct; Arg, 8 Fidden, Mull 21 Sep; Dunb, 11 Ardmore 19-28 Sep; Lan, 13 Gadloch 18 Oct; Ayr, 12 Barassie 3 Oct; Kirk, 235 Southwick - Borron Pt 22 Feb; Dumf, 130 Caerlaverock 6 Apr. 26 +Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Breeding: Ork, some areas poor success, Ist full clutch 28 Mar; Isle of May, 7 nests but no young fledged; E Loth, good numbers, 42 pairs bred Aberlady; Renf, big increase to 40+ prs Kilmacolm; Kirk, disastrous season after blizzard of 24 Apr. Counts and migration: Fair Isle peaks 94 on 26 Mar, 70 on 27 Sep; Ork, 2300 S Ronaldsay 16 Nov, rapid decrease in Dec severe weather; Banff, 1600 Sandhaven 24 Jan; Aber, 1600 Cruden Bay 11 Nov; Midl, 2000 Braidburn 14 Nov; Renf/Dunb, 2407 Clyde est 22 Feb; Ayr, 5000 Bogside 11 Nov; Wig, 1160 L Ryan 15 Nov. Knot Calidris canutus Winter - spring: Ork, 113 Sanday 9 June; Caith, 20 L of Mey 17 May; Suth, 1000 Dornoch 21 Feb; Angus, 500 Arbroath 14 Feb; Stir, 5400 Grangemouth 20 Jan; E Loth, 700 Tyninghame 4 Jan, 200 summered Aberlady; Arg, 75 Scallastle, Mull 7 May; Kirk, 3650 Southwick - Borron Pt 22 Feb. Autumn: Fair Isle poor nos, max 10 on 20 Sep; Suth, 600 Brora 19 Sep; Aber, 205 Ythan 8 Sep; Fife, 7150 Kirkcaldy 12 Dec; Stir, Ist 5 Grangemouth 6 Aug, 1350 on 18 Dec; Midl, 7000 Musselburgh 14 Nov; E Loth, 1900 Aberlady 25 Nov; Arg, 40 Glen Forsa, Mull 12 Aug; Ayr, 250 Barassie 20 Dec. Sanderling Calidris alba Winter - spring: Ork, 60 N Ronaldsay 24 May; Aber, 55 St Combs 31 Jan; Angus, 200 Elliot 6 May, 300 Balmossie 26 Apr; Fife, 90 Tentsmuir 22 Jan; E Loth, 54 Aberlady 20 May; Ayr, 42 Barassie 19 May - a poor spring. Autumn: Shet/Fair Isle, poor autumn: max 30 Grutness 19 July; Ork, 223 Sanday 29 Nov; Aber, 200 Drums 5 Sep; E Loth, 120 Aberlady 20 July; Arg, 230 Gott Bay, Tiree 29 Aug; Ayr, Ist back Barassie 10 July, 53 on 2Sth. Little Stint Calidris minuta Spring: singles Ork, Papa Westray 8 June, N Ronaldsay 21 June; Aberlady, E Loth 16 May; Endrick Mouth, Dunb 9 May. Autumn: about 400 birds 12 July - 29 Nov. Summary of estimated individuals present: July Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct 1-14 15-31 1-14 15-30 North (Shet-Inv) 1 6 30+ 80+ 8+ East (Moray-Stir) 5 4 13+ 70+ 9 SE (Loths) 1 26+ 36 27 W (O Heb-Dumf) 2 1 1 50+ 35 p) Noteworthy records: Shet, 40+ Dun 21 Sep; Fair Isle, 10 on 21 Sep; O Heb, 15 S Uist 16 Sep; Caith, 8 Wick 19 Sep; Aber, 17 Strathbeg 17 Sep; Midl, 18 Mussel- burgh 27 Sep; Arg, 42 Gott Bay, Tiree S Sep; Ayr, 1 Barassie 29 Nov; Kirk, 2 L Ken 11 Sep; Dumf, 9 Caerlaverock 28 Sep. | +Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii Breeding: main site, 1st 3 on 12 May, peak 7 birds, at least 1 nest hatched 2 young 15-16 July; 2-3 seen other site. Migrants singles: Shet, Hillwell 23-24 May, Haroldswick 2 June; Fair Isle 22 May; Ork, Papa Westray 22 June; O Heb, St Kilda 29 May; Caith, Wick River 24 May; Peeb, West Water 19 May; Dunb, Endrick Mouth 17 July; Ayr, Bogside 13 July, Doonfoot 29 Aug. *White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis One Virkie, Shet 25-30 Aug (M.S. Chapman et al). *Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melantos Ten: Shet, 1 Haroldswick, Unst 2 June (ISp), presumably same Gutcher, Yell 4-Sth (RJT) and Sellafirth 8th (CG), 1 Virkie 26 Aug (CB, DC) and at Hillwell 27th (MSC), 3 Hillwell 1-3 Sep (JND, MH); O Heb, 1 Lewis 1 Sep (NEB); Ork, 1 Tankerness 26 Aug - 2 Sep (ADR), Birsay 17 Sep (BR); Caith, 1 Wick 13-14 Sep (WB, KWB, HC); Arg, 1 L Gruinart, Islay 22 June (SFN, JMW). | 27 Ele Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Spring singles Fair Isle 7 May; Papa Westray, Ork 12 May; 2 Ythan, Aber 30 May, one 31st; 2 L Gruinart, Islay 16 May. Autumn about 120 birds 16 July - 31 October, summary as follows: July Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct 1-14 15-31 1-14 15-30 North (Shet-Inv) 5 10 10 4 East (Moray-Stir) 1 2 10 15 SE (Loths-Ber) 2 4 10 1S 13 West (O Heb-Dumf) 1 7 19 12 12 Noteworthy records: Ross, 2 Udale 31 Oct; Aber, 12 Ythan 19 Sep; Midl, 11 Musselburgh 2 Oct; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 27 Aug; Wig, 4 Luce Bay 12 Sep, 4 L Ryan 4 Oct. +Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Breeding: 3 prs nested successfully and reared at least one young each. Counts: Fair Isle, marked passage 4-8 May max 100 on 6th, last 22nd, Ist back 23 June; Ork, 490 Papa Westray mid Jan; Aber/Kinc, 390 Girdleness 19 Feb, 350 Fraserburgh S Apr, 2 summered; Isle of May, 56 on S May, absent 24 May - 1 July; Forth, 30 Eyebroughty 31 July; Ber, 194 Eyemouth 25 Nov; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 18 Oct; Ayr, 115 Chapedonan 11 Apr. tDunlin Calidris alpina Breeding: Shet, 2 prs nested Foula, back Fetlar 7 May; Borders, 5-6 prs bred West Water, generally poor success Moorfoots/ Lammermuirs, none Cheviot; Kirk, may now no longer breed. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, 50 on 18 Apr is very high; Suth, 3000 Dornoch 21 Feb; Moray, 500 Findhorn 7 Apr; Perth, 3000 Invergowrie late Dec; Fife, 1500 Eden est 7 Feb; Forth est, 4270 on 20 Jan; E Loth, 1300 Tyninghame 29 Dec; Arg, 1500 in summer plumage Lochdon, Mull 7 May is unprecedented, 500 on 8th, 60 on 10th; Dunb, 40 Endrick Mouth 7-9 May; Dunb/Renf, Clyde counts still low, 1050 on 22 Feb, 1221 on 13 Dec; Ayr, 1000+ Barassie 24 Dec. *Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis Three Bornish, O Heb 18 Sep (W.R. Brackenridge). ‘ Ruff Philomachus pugnax Winter: Aber, max S Ythan 25 Jan; E Loth, wintered, up to 32 Aberlady; Arg, 1 Craignish 10-11 Feb; Wig, 1 L Ryan 29 Jan; Dumf, 9 Caerlaverock 15 Mar. Spring passage: Shet (3), Fair Isle (2) and Ork (2) in May/ June; 20 Eden est, Fife lekking 15 Apr - 18 May; E Loth, several ¢¢ Aberlady May; Dunb, oEndrick Mouth 7 May; Renf, 29¢ Barr Loch 21 Apr; O Heb, 39°N Uist 15 June, on 16th. Autumn - winter: Shet, strong passage from mid-Sep, several flock 40; Fair Isle, two waves 2-28 Aug, max 4, 9-28 Sep, max 25 on 14th; Ork, max 55 Sanday 17 Sep; good numbers down east side; Aber, 21 Meikle L 9 Aug, later 29 Newburgh 22 Nov, 18 wintered; Angus, max 14 Montrose Basin 29 Sep; Midl, 36 Musselburgh 6 Oct; numbers low in west, Renf, max 7 Balgray res 13 Aug; Ayr, 10 Blairbowie 30 Aug. Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Usual scatter of records to 18 May (Fair Isle) and lower than usual from 9 Aug (Fair Isle - early record); also one Fair Isle 27 June. Noteworthy records: Fair Isle, max 15 on 9 Oct; W Stir, 6 Dumbreck 15 Mar and 7 Nov; Renf, 8 Paisley Moss 28 Jan and 25 Oct; Ayr, 21 Prestwick 15 May, 11 on 16 Nov. Snipe Gallinago gallinago Breeding: Fair Isle, now 10 prs some double brooded with young in Sep; Ork, Ist drumming 23 Feb Stenness; Perth/Stir, nos seemed low; Kirk, believed decreasing. Counts and passage::Fair Isle, max 55 on 9 Oct, influx 50 nominate birds 1 Nov; Ork, 300 N Ronaldsay 24-25 Oct; Caith, 40 Wick 18 Oct; Stir, 150 Twechar 18 Oct; Renf, 120 Aird Meadows 7 Oct. *Great Snipe Gallinago media One (lst year) trapped Fair Isle 22 Sep - 9 Oct (A. Broome, N.J. Riddiford er ai). *Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodrumus scolopaceus One Caerlaverock, Dumf from 3 Nov 1980 to 26 Apr (M. Wright ez ai). tWoodcock Scolopax rusticola Breeding: roding started 25 Feb Inv, 4 Mar Perth: no status comments except very good season Whiteadder/Abbey St Bathans. Counts and passage: most places reported poor autumn nos: Fair Isle, passage 16 Mar - 20 May, max 15 on 26 Mar, 3 Oct - 11 Nov, max only 30 on 4 Nov; Isle of May, 5 on 18 Oct: Ber, many 100s on coast Eyemouth to St Abbs 21-31 Dec during severe weather; Ayr, many on coast late Dec. +Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Breeding: Shet, pr usual site, fledged at least one young; display Birsay, Ork 3 June. Counts and passage: Shet, 5 Virkie 2 May; Ork, max 11 Rendall 23 Sep; Caith, 3 Lof Mey 13 Sep; Aber, 9 Ythan 10 July, some to 1 Oct; Angus, 40 Montrose Basin 13 Sep; Fife, 110 Eden est 29 Aug; Arg, 4 L Gruinart 31 Mar; Renf, 5 Displaying Barr Loch 21 Apr; Ayr, more than usual, max 4 Bogside 30 Aug; Dumf, 26 Caerlaverock 28 Apr. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Counts and passage: Shet, Ist 3 Virkie 8 July, max 30 on 31 Aug; Ork, 111 Sanday 9 June, 325 Stronsay 29 Dec; Suth, 1500 Dornoch 21 Feb; Angus, 200 Montrose 26 July; Perth, 600 Invergowrie 28 Dec; Fife, 1500 Eden est 21 Jan, 1400 Tentsmuir 22 Jan; E Loth, 1375 Aberlady 23 Jan, 150 summered; Arg, 95 L Indaal 24 Dec; Dunb, 7W Endrick Mouth 27 Aug; Kirk, 4550 Southwick - Borron Pt 22 Feb. +Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Breeding: Shet, lst 2 May (late), good season all areas, late nest Whalsay hatched 12-14 July, last 16 Sep; Ork, 5+ prs in N Isles; Scottish Mainland, 1 pr usual site, 4 eggs 4 July, young 19th. Counts and passage 10 Apr - 24 Oct; Fair Isle 15 on 11 May, 14 on 1 June; Aber 44S Peterhead 8 Aug, 27W Rosehearty 27 Aug; Isle of May 17 on 28 Aug; E Loth, 12 Tyninghame 6 Aug; Arg, 50 L Indaal, Islay 11 May, 15N Scallastle, Mull 7 May; Ayr, 7N Greenan 27 Apr. 29 +Curlew Numenius arquata Breeding: only comments: Shet, good season; Ork, Ist eggs 24 Apr; Fair Isle, 2 prs but only one pr bred, reared 4 young. Counts and passage: Fair Isle influx 40 late Dec; Ork, 2000 Evie 28 Aug; Aber, 915 Sandhaven 28 Sep; Isle of May 80 on 12 Aug, 81 on 30 Oct; Arg, 1086 L Indaal 15 Sep; Ayr, 1000 New Cumnock 20 Aug; Dumf, 3000 Caerlaverock 29 Sep. Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Winter-spring: Shet, 1 Hillwell 14-16 May; E Ross, 1 Pollo 25 Apr; Inv, 1 Ardersier 22 Jan - 20 Feb; Perth, 1 Invergowrie 14-30 Apr; Fife, 1 Eden est 8 Jan - Apr; Stir, 1 Kincardine Bridge 21 Feb; Midl, 1 Cramond 20 Jan; Renf, 1 Langbank 19 Jan. Passage from 19 July; summary of individuals as follows: July . Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov 1-14 «15-31 = 1-14 =: 15-30 North (Shet-E Ross) 1 2 4 1 2 1 East (Aber-Stir) 1 3 4 6 13 6 SE (Loth-Ber) ) 3 6 1 2 W (O Heb-Kirk) 6 4 1 2 Noteworthy records: Aber, 5 Cotehill 27 Sep; Renf, 4 Blagray res 13 Aug; Midl, 1 Cramond 13 Dec. +Redshank Tringa totanus Breeding: no comments of note. Counts and passage: Fair Isle main passage 17 Mar - 23 May, max 300n 2 May and 7 July to Dec, max 55 on 5 Sep, 50 on 19 Oct; Moray, 1550 Findhorn 18 Jan, 1500 on 7 Apr; Aber, 1128 Ythan 9 Apr, 1174 on 20 Aug; Angus, 1800 Montrose Basin 26 July, birds dying in severe weather from 22 Dec; Isle of May 80 on 20 Aug; Dunb/Renf, 6000 Clyde est 22 Mar, 5000+ on 17 Sep. +Greenshank Tringa nebularia Breeding: Shet, 2 prs bred successfully; no comments to main areas; Aber, 1 pr nested successfully mid Deeside. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, max 5 on 14 Aug, 14 Sep; Moray, 10 Findhorn 14 Aug; Aber, 20 Strathbeg 11 Sep; Fife, 20 Eden est 30 Aug; Midl, 19 Gladhouse 11 Sep; E Loth, 9 Aberlady 13 Aug; Dunb/Renf, 18 Woodhall 22 Feb, 18 on 28 Sep; Renf, 11 Balgray res 20 Aug; Dumf, 10S Browhouses 23 Aug, 55 on 10 Sep. Wintering birds: Ross, Jan (2), Dec (5); Inv, Jan, Dec (4); Aber, Dec; Fife, Dec; W Loth, Dec; E Loth, Jan; Arg, Dec (2); Dunb/Renf, Jan (14), Dec; Ayr, Jan (4), Dec (2); Wig, Jan (6); Dumf, Dec (2). Green Sandpiper Tringa ochrupus Winter: singles Tarholm, Ayr Jan - 4 Apr (25 Aug - 31 Dec), Dalbeattie, Dumf 1 Jan. Spring: Shet, singles Lerwick 15 May, Fetlar 27 May; Fair Isle 3 May; Ork, Wideford Burn 19 May; Suth, 6 Handa 21 Apr; Midl, 1 Gladhouse 9 May. Autumn passage (light): Shet, two in Aug; Fair Isle 2-4 daily 5-15 Aug, max 8 on 14th; Ork, c9 between 25 July and 22 Sep; O Heb, 1 North Rona 24-29 Oct; Aber, scarce 4 July - 21 Sep, max 2 Dyce 4 July, late bird Fintray 7 Nov - 6 Dec; few down E coast, max 2 Isle of May 5 Aug, 2 Dunbar, E Loth 9-13 Aug; W Stir, few 26 July - 12 Sep, max 4 Twechar 27 Aug; Lan, 3 Libberton 11 Aug; Ayr/Wig, 1-2 in Aug - Oct. {Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Breeding: Suth, at least 1 pr probably nesting; Inv, 2-3 prs main site, definitely one brood seen, Ist bird 11 May, singles also at nearby marshes 14s May and 4 June. Counts and passage, numbers low: Shet, 6 from 4 sites 13-29 May, 1 Hillwell 19 Sep; Fair Isle, one 12-14 May, 2 on 17th, one to 22nd, one 26th; Ork, 1 Stenness 29 Aug; Aber, singles Strathbeg 26 Aug, Cotehill 13 Sep, Meikle 19-25 Sep; Angus, Forfar 17 May; Fife, Eden est 19 July; E Loth, Aberlady 13-14 May, Dunbar 28 May, Drem 19 July; Ber, West Water 22 July; Dunb, Endrick Mouth 18 Sep; Lan, Libberton 2 Sep; Ayr, Shewalton 1-20 Sep, Highfield 8 Sep, Turnberry 5 Oct. tCommon Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Breeding: Shet, nested 6 sites; Stir, 20 prs Carron valley res; Arran, 34 prs bred; Kirk, none breeding L Ken. Winter: 1 Lochore Meadows, Fife 16 Feb. Spring arrival: Ist Glen Ey, Aber 22 Mar; 2 Apr L Fada, Skye; most Ist dates 11-13th Kirk - Aber, mainly 18-20 Apr. Counts: Moray, 20 Findhorn 29 July; Angus, 30 Montrose Basin 26 July; Isle of May, 15 on 11 Sep; Midl, 15 Harperrig 15 July; Ber, 16 West Water 3 May, 21 on 22 July; Dunb, max 43 Endrick Mouth 9 July. Last record Carron Valley, Stir 18 Oct. Turnstone Arenaria interpres Ccunts and migration: Shet, many flocks, up to 25 summered; Fair Isle, high nos, 80 on 2 Feb, 160 0n 2 Nov; Ork, 300 Sanday 21 May, usual summer records; Moray, 82 Lossiemouth 30 Aug; Aber, 720 Fraserburgh - Rosehearty 7 Feb, 4 Peterhead in June; Isle of May, 250 on 28 Apr, absent 30 May - 25 June, 300 on 24 Sep; E Loth, 277 Gosford 14 Nov; Midl, 400 Musselburgh 16 Apr; Dunb, 3 Endrick Mouth 15 May; Ayr, 160 Prestwick 2 May. *Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor Two: Birsay, Ork 3 Sep (Mrs S. Green, J. B. Ribbands)§; Gladhouse, Midl 13 Sep (L.L.J. Vick). Gladhouse, Midl 13 Sep (L.L.J. Vick). *tRed-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Breeding: Shet, lst 2 Fetlar 12 May, population estimated 21-24 prs, thought to be good season, 18+ prs hatching young, last seen 9 Aug; O Heb, 24 birds seen, 2-4 prs bred; Scottish mainland, 3 birds at 1 site and thought to have bred, one at another site 10 July. Migrants: Ork, 1N Ronaldsay 11-14 July; E Loth, 2 Aberlady 7 Aug. *Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius One Easter Ellister, Islay 23 Sep (CGB). Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus Spring: 1 Fair Isle crossing 22 May; Ork, 1 Scapa Flow 30 Apr; Aber, 1 Collieston 12 May; Ber, 1 Dowlaw 20 June; Arg, singles Sound of Islay 9 May and Treshnish Pt, Mull 11 June. Summer - autumn: Shet, | off Bresay 9 Sep, 1 Haroldswick 11 Sep; Fair Isle, singles 22 Aug, 23 Sep; Ross, 2 Tarbatness 26 Sep; Banff, 4 Buckie 4 Oct; Aber, 1 Rattray 1 Aug, singles 4 days Peterhead 20 Aug - 19 Oct, 2 on 30 Sep; Midl, 3 Musselburgh 26 Sep, one 27th; E Loth, singles Tyninghame 16 Aug, Barnsness 6 Aug, more in early Oct, max 45 on 1 Oct; Ber, St Abbs 11 Aug, 26 Sep; Arg, singles Mull 27 July, Tiree 1 Sep, Coul Pt, Islay 29 Sep. tArctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Breeding counts included c120 prs Fair Isle; Ork, 45 prs Eday, 95 prs on territory Papa Westray, 91 prs Raasay; O Heb, spreading S, now breeding Benbecula; Suth, 14 prs Handa; Arg, 2 cols (c20 prs) Coll, 6 prs Jura. Arrivals and passage: Ist Unst, Shet 8 Apr, mainly after 15th, last Skerries 1 Oct; Ross, last 2 Tarbatness 18 Oct; Banff, 7 Buckie 4 Oct; Aber, 2N Peterhead 20 Apr, 5SN on 21 Aug, 38N on 22nd; Midl, 15 Hound Pt 24 Sep; E Loth, 75 Barnsness 1 Oct, 53 on 2 Oct; Dunb, 4 Endrick Mouth 29 Apr; Ayr, 4S Turnberry 28 Sep. *Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus Shet, ad Fetlar 16 July, sub-ad 19th; Fair Isle ad 6 Sep; Ork, Evie 15 May, Pentland Firth 7 Aug; Ross, Chanonry Ness 3 Oct, Tarbatness 18 Oct; Aber, Peterhead 18 June, 1 dead Drums 7 Nov; Angus, | Barry Buddon 25 May - 1 July; W Loth, 2 Hound Point 3 Nov; Midl, Musselburgh 22 Aug; Arg, | West of Tiree 6 Sep. 31 +Great Skua Stercorarius skua Breeding: no changes Shet - Ork; O Heb, increasing; Lewis, bred N Uist; Suth, 28 prs Handa, 4 prs Eilean nan Roan; Ross, pr Longa apparently prospecting. Arrivals and counts: Shet, Ist Fetlar 19 Mar, last Yell 25 Oct; Fair Isle, 26 Mar - 6 Nov; Banff, 25 Buckie 4 Oct; Aber, 1 Balmedie 18 Jan, next Peterhead 4 Apr, max there 137N Peterhead 23 July, 72N on 22 Aug, last 8 Nov; E Loth, 55 Barnsness 1 Oct, 21 on 2nd, last 7 Nov; Ber, 16 St Abbs 1 Oct. *Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Three: 2nd Y Balmedie, Aber 3 Nov (PF); ad Musselburgh, Midl 4 Jan (LLJV); 2nd Y Doonfoot, Ayr 14 Aug (RDW),. *Franklin’s Gull Larus pipixcan Second summer Canna, Inv 5-11 July when found dead (R.L. Swann et al). Little Gull Larus minutus Shet, singles 20-24 Apr, 27 May, 29 May, 7 Sep, 21 Sep; Ork, singles May and Aug; O Heb, one N Uist 22 May; Inv, 1 Alturlie 30 Aug; few S from Aber where 1-2 on many dates; Angus, max SO Barry Buddon 18 Apr, 100+ Westhaven 26 July and 700 Westhaven 18 Aug (a record for county); Fife, max 5 Kilconquhar 5 Sep; few Midl, E Loth and Ber, max 3 Musselburgh 2 Mar; Arg, 1 Danna 16 Feb; Renf/Dunb/ Ayr singles 5 days Feb, May-Aug, but 8 Endrick Mouth 23 Aug; Wig, 4L Ryan 13 Sep; Dumf, 1 L Maben 2 June - 6 Aug, 2 on 27 July. *Sabine’s Gull Larus sabini Three in Ayr; ad Doonfoot 5 Aug, juv Turnberry Pt 28 Sep, ad there 29 Oct (RDW/RHH). *Bonaparte’s Gull Larus philadelphia One Stenness, Ork 27 May (M. Gray)§. +Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Breeding: Shet, good season, flying young from 20 June; Angus, 12+ prs Barry Buddon, Ist since 1905; Lothians census 1278 prs, Borders 3873 prs, biggest site 1500 prs West Water; Renf, increase to 300+ prs Aird Meadows; Ayr, L Macaterick colony deserted due to mink; also similar predation in Kirk. Counts and passage: Inv, Garten peak 2400 on 2 Apr; N Kinc, 5500 Girdleness 15 Jan; Stir, 20000 Skinflats 19 Oct; Midl, 6225 Edinburgh 13 Dec; Dunb/Renf, 9000 Clyde est 3 Sep. *Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Two: 2nd Y Clickimin, Shet 29 Dec - Jan 82 (M.S. Chapman er a/); 2nd Y S Uist, O Heb 13 Aug (J.J. Sweeney, W. Neale er a/). +Common Gull Larus canus Breeding: Shet, good season; Fair Isle, 4 out of S prs successful; Ork, increase to 70 prs Auskerry, fewer N Ronaldsay; Renf, 400 prs L Thom/Gryfe res unsuccessful due to egg-collecting and persecution; Kirk, inland colonies decreases and poor success. Counts and passage: Fair Isle autumn passage 30 July - 26 Oct, max 392 on 11 Sep is low; Aber, 2000 Skene 25 Oct, 22 Nov; Midl, 15000 Gladhouse 29 Jan. +Lesser Black-headed Gull Larus fuscus Breeding: few comments of note. possibly still increasing Flanders Moss, Perth. More wintering birds Shet, Dec: Aber, Jan, Feb, Dec (3); Perth, Jan (2), Dec (2); Fife, Feb; Stir, Feb; Midl/W Loth, Jan (3). Feb (7), Dec; E Loth, Jan, Feb (3); Dunb, Dec; Renf, Jan (17. incl 14 Balgray res 23 Jan), Dec (73, incl 60 Balgray 6 Dec), 12 Auchendores 31 Dec; Lan, Feb (18), Dec (3); Ayr, Jan (6), Dec. Arrivals, mainly 10-18 Mar N to Shet. Scandinavian birds: Ork, 19 Feb, 8 Mar; Isle of May 12 May; Midl, 2 on 3 Oct; E Loth. 13 Aberlady 29 Mar, 1 on 21 Nov; Ayr, 1-2 25 Feb - 19 Mar. +Herring Gull Larus argentatus Breeding: Isle of May, down to 2900 prs; Inv, increase to 1000 prs Canna and 536 prs E side Rhum. Counts: Fair Isle storm roosts 1600 on 17 Feb, 1355 on 21 Apr; Aberdeen, 8000 on 5 Mar. Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides About 200 birds throughout country, a good year: max counts and records of note: Shet, cS50 Jan - Mar, max 6 Scalloway; O Heb, c 30 Lewis Jan - Mar; Caith, 5 Wick 15 Jan; Aber, 6 Fraserburgh 31 Jan, 5 on 5 Dec, 4 Girdleness 21 Feb; Rox, 1 Kelso 31 Jan; Arg, 2 Campbeltown 18 Jan; Renf, 1 Balgray res 10 Mar; Ayr, 4 Doonfoot - Ayr Feb; Wig, 1 L Ryan 11-31 Jan, 13 Dec. Glaucuous Gull Larus hyperboreus Nos high and recorded most counties and all months. Counts: Shet, exceptional nos Jan - Mar, max 100 Unst 23 Jan, 50+ L of Cliff 16 Feb, 120+ elsewhere, 35+ Oct - Dec; Fair Isle, peaks 20 on 8 Feb, 5 on 13 Oct; Ork, max 3 Papa Westray 15 Feb; O Heb, 20 Lewis Jan - Mar; Caith, all year, max 10N Noss Head 11 Jan; Aber, 28 Fraserburgh 31 Jan, 8 on 5 Dec; Midl, 2 Cousland 26 Nov; Ber, 3 Eyemouth 28 Oct; Arg, max 7 Campbeltown 30 Jan; Ayr, 27+ during year, daily max c8 Ayr Feb; Wig, 2 L Ryan 31 Jan - 1 Feb. 1 hybrid ad unst 4-6 Mar. tGreat Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Breeding changes: increase to 36 prs Rhum; Kirk, no longer breeds L Moan. Counts: Fair Isle storm roosts 1000 on 8 Feb, 1300 on 21 Apr, 1200 on 10 Aug; Inv, Garten inland roost 31 on 4 Jan; Aber, 2000 Drums - Ythan 30 Aug; Isle of May 950 on 21 Oct. *Ross’s Gull Rhodostethia rosea Four in Shet; adult Whalsay 14 Jan (Dr B. Marshall, N.D. Poleson et a/); adult Baltasound, Unst 22-24 Jan (I. Spence et al); adult Scalloway 24 Jan - 5 Feb (J.D. Okill, I. Sandison et a/); adult Quendale 28-31 Jan (M.G. Richardson et al). tKittiwake Rissa tridactyla Breeding: Fair Isle, excellent season, high fledging rate; Ork, excellent season, Ist eggs 10 May; Isle of May, increase to c6100 nests; continued small increases St Abbs, Ber; Rhum (1413 nests) and Canna (981 prs), Inv. Counts and passage: Fair Isle 871N on 8 Oct; Ork, 800/hr N Ronaldsay 8 Oct; Ross, 1200/hr N Tarbatness 26 Sep, 500S/hr 18 Oct; Inv, 3 L Garten 14 Mar; Aber, largest 7O0ON/hr Peterhead 29 Apr, 8000N/hr 5 Aug; Ber, 1000N/hr Barnsness 2 Oct; Peeb, Ist record North Esk res 16 June; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 11 Aug. *Caspian Tern Sterna caspia Two: Arg, off Ardpatrick Pt, Sound of Gigha 6 June (D.L. & Mrs R.Z. Clugston); W Loth, Hound Pt 3 July (A. Stewart). +Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Breeding: Ork, 72 prs 4 sites, young mainly drowned by rain Sanday; Aber, 1300 prs Forvie, excellent season; Forth 500 prs Inchmickery. Winter: 2 Kirkcaldy, Fife 4 Jan; W Loth, 3 Dalmeny 31 Jan - 1 Feb; E Loth, Port Seton - Gosford 15-22 Feb, Aberlady 19 Dec. Arrivals and passage: Shet, c6 May - Aug; Fair Isle, 4 singles 31 May - 8 Aug; Ork, 29 Mar - 30 Sep; Caith, 1 Sandside 27 Mar; Aber, Ist N Peterhead 20 Mar, last 11 Oct, 2 inland Banchory - Devenick 10 May; Perth, 70W Balhepburn 4 Aug; Fife Ness, 1 on 12 Mar, 4000 Pettycur 18 Aug; Stirling, one 13 Aug; Midl, last 15 Nov; Dunb, 2W Cumbernauld 4 Oct. *tRoseate Vern Sterna dougalli Breeding and counts: Fife, 1 pr bred, at least 1 young, 16 ads and 3 young seen Kirkcaldy 29 July, 1 on 11 Oct; W Loth, 1E Hound Pt 27 May, 2 on 14 June, 3 July; 2 nests Inchmickery 23 June; E Loth, singles Aberlady 19 July, 10 Aug, Dirleton 10 June; Ayr, Meikle Craigs 24 Aug. 33 +Common Tern Sterna hirundo Breeding: Fair Isle, 40 prs reared c60 young; Moray, poor success; Aber, very poor year Forvie (100 prs) but good Strthbeg (100 prs); E Loth, poor year; Kirk, generally poor - eggs taken, floods and rats! Arrivals: 8 Balmedie, Aber 9 Apr; Ayr, 2 Troon 16 Apr; Ist in Shet 9 May. Counts: 1550 Tentsmuir, Fife 30 Aug. Last records mostly early Oct, last 2 Hound Pt, W Loth 17 Oct. +Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Breeding: Shet, good season, large nos young, Papa Stour colony c10000 prs; Ork, good season, up to 2000 young fledged Papa Westray where some still incubating late July; Moray, poor year 350 prs Kinloss; Aber, 100 prs Forvie very poor year; Arg, generally unsuccessful. Arrivals: 29 Apr, 1 Peterhead, Aber; 30th 2 Tankerness, Ork, mostly from Sth May. Last records: 4 Oct, 2 Fetlar, Shet; 8 Oct, 1 Musselburgh, MidI. fLittle ‘ern Sterna albifrons Breeding: Caith, 3 prs nested; Aber, 46 prs Forvie, Ist clutches failed, finally 4 young fledged; Kinc/Angus, 30 prs at 6 sites, poor success only 8 young fledged; E Loth, 68 prs bred, one colony failed (foxes) and others had some success; Arg, 8+ prs Islay; Ayr, 6 prs Ballantrae, 1 juv; Wig, 3 prs failed due to rats. Arrivals and counts: 12 Apr Irvine, Ayr; 21 Apr 2 Aberlady, E Loth; Ork, 1 Stenness 4 Aug; last Lamlash, Arran 17 Sep. *Black Tern Chlidonias niger One in spring Peterhead, Aber 8 May. About 55 in autumn 1| July - 14 Oct; Shet, Skerries 24-26 Sep; E Ross, Tarbatness 26 Sep; Aber, Meikle 1 July, Ythan 25th and 9 Aug, Peterhead 12 Sep, Cotehill 13th, Meikle 18-19th; Angus, Scurdyness 30 Aug; Fife, 2 Fifeness 17 July, Kilconquhar 4 Sep; Midl, 3 Musselburgh 20 Sep, 2 Cramond 14 Oct; W Loth, 1-12 seen Hound Pt 6th - 30 Sep, max 60n 12th, 10 0n 28th, 12 on 29th; E Loth, 2 Aberlady 14 Aug, 15th (4), 16th (13), 1 to 24th, Seacliff 16th, Tyninghame and Barnsness 29th; Arg, Dervaig, Mull 15 Sep; Renf, 2 Balgray res 16-24 Sep, 1 on 30 Sep - 1 Oct; Ayr, 2 Kilbirnie L 13 Sep; Wig, L Ryan 12 Sep; Kirk, 2 Carlingwark L 13-14 Sep, one 16th. +Guillemot Uria aalge Breeding: Noss census 65500 adults, continued increase, Shet sample 23.1% bridled birds; Fair Isle, excellent season; Ork, bridled sample 10%; Isle of May 17000 present in June; Firth of Forth, 3.04% bridled; Ber, St Abbs suggestion of decrease; Arg, 9% increase Canna, 1000 prs 2 sites Islay no change in 10 years. Big numbers wintered in Moray Firth; 950 inside Beauly Firth, Inv/Ross 6 Mar, 6180n 14 Nov, 600 Riff Bank 16 Nov and large nos Spey Bay Oct - feeding on sprats/herring. *Brunnich’s Guillemot Uria lomvia Two found dead: Ist Y Johnshaven, Kinc 25 Jan (K. Brockie); Stenness, Ork 29 Dec (M. Gray etal). tRazorbill Alco torda Breeding: Shet, Noss stable - 1432 ads; Fair Isle, possible slight decrease? Isle of May, 2000 birds in June; Inv, slight increase to 450 birds Rhum; Wig, no change (6 prs) Gillie’s Craig; Dunb, Ist ever Endrick Mouth 1 Oct; Renf, 1E Longhaugh Pt 4 Oct. + Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle Breeding: Fair Isle, poor season; Ork, 47 nests Auskerry had 69 young; Aber, possibly breeding in Peterhead area; Inv, continued increase to record 144 adults Canna; Renf, 2 prs Port Glasgow shipyard, 1 pr reared 2 young; Ayr, pr prospecting Troon. Counts: Shet, 438 Bluemull - Colgrave 22 Jan; Fair Isle, influx 130 on 20 Oct; Inv, 1 Kessock 13 Oct; Aber, more records, max 21 Fraserburgh 11 Mar; few south to E Loth. Little Auk Alle alle Another poor year 60-70 records (c20 dead): Shet, Jan - 23 Mar, 1-31 Dec, max 3 Whalsay 22 Dec; Fair Isle, Ist 14 Oct, max 6 on 22 Dec; Ork, c10 Jan - Feb, Oct - Dec; O Heb (2), E Ross, 1 Fortrose 3 Mar; Aber (4) including 1 dead Blackdog 29 June; Angus (4), one in late May; Isle of May, 4 on 7 Nov; Fife (2), E Loth (3 in Feb); Ber, 1 Eyemouth 16 Jan; Ayr (5) incl 3 Troon 10 Oct. +Puffin Fratercula arctica Shet, Hermaness continued annual increase 3.5%; Fair Isle, 600 ashore 5 Apr; Isle of May 10000 active burrows, exodus 16000 birds 2 Aug, 7000 on 6th, 1000 on 7th; Ber, 17 ashore Fast Castle probably nesting; Inv, slight increase to 60-70 prs Rhum; 15-20 prs Ailsa Craig. Counts: last Shet 15 Aug; W Loth, max 33E Hound Pt 27 May; Wig, 3 Mull of Galloway 28 June. +Rock Dove Columba livia Shet, max 250 Scalloway 17 Nov; Ork, nest still with chick 20 Oct, max 540 Newark 15 Dec, 410 Stenness 25 Dec; Arg, 83 Bruaichladdich 21 Mar. +Stock Dove Columba oenas Breeding: Aber, breeding at up to 23 known sites; Isle of May 1-2 prs bred (1st ever). Counts: Shet, 1 Kergord 9 May - 5 June; Fair Isle, one 18 Oct - 2 Nov; W Loth, max 105 Dalmeny 15 Noy; Arg, 1 West L Tarbert 22 Mar; Renf, 24 Inchinnan 20 Aug. +Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Shet, large influx from 27 Mar, max 20 Kergord; Fair Isle, spring peaks 12 on 8 Apr, 20 on 10 May; Ork, nesting records include young in nest Firth 18 Oct; Moray, 1000 Teindland 29 Nov; W Loth, 5500 Livingston 29 Nov; Midl, 8000 Straiton 10 Dec; Selk, 5000+ Lindean 1 Feb; Ayr, 3000 Monkton 11 Nov. +Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Breeding comments: stable Perth, E Loth and Kirk, less O Heb and Borders; few more Shet and 43 Brodick is most ever. Counts and passage: Fair Isle 3 May - 28 Sep, max 9 on 8 June; Caith, 113 Wick 25 Nov; E Loth, 66 Aberlady 10 Dec; Renf, 92 Arkleston 4 Oct. Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Migration: Shet, small nos (1-2) 12 May - 15 July and 2 Sep - 31 Oct; Fair Isle 17 May - 4 July (max 4 on 15 June), 7 Aug - 9 Oct; Ork, ca ten 12 May - 9 Oct; O Heb, 1 S Uist 24 May, 2 Lewis 11 June; small nos down E coast, Caith (3), Ross (1), Inv (1), Aber (5), Angus (1), Isle of May (2), Fife (1), E Loth (5), Ber (3), mainly May - June, Sep - Oct; W Inv, singles Rhum 20 May, 14 June; singles Milngavie, W Stir 10 May, Doonfoot, Ayr, 5 Oct and Sannox, Ayr 2 Sep. tCuckoo Cuculus canorus Breeding: only comment less in mid Arg, Mull and Rhum. Arrivals: 9 Apr Glen Shurig, Arran; 16th Darsalloch, Kirk; 17th Ayr, in N, 26th Braes, Skye; mainly 1-9 May. Passage: Shet, 1-2 at 12 sites 9 May - 8 June, 4 singles Sep to 19th; Fair Isle, good spring, Son 10 May, next peak 8 on 17th, few to 7 June; Ork, last Holm 25 Sep; Ber, last St Abbs 24 Oct. +Barn Owl Tyto alba E Ross/Iny, no change; Aber and Perth, more reported; Renf, W Stir, only 7 reports; Ayr, reasonable; Dumf, average; Kirk, good season but severe weather Dec causing deaths; Arg, singles Mull Feb, July and Nov. *Snowy Owl Nyctea scandiaca Shet, Fetlar 299s throughout year, 399s early Apr to end May, 15 June, 17 July and 31 Aug, 499s on 13 Apr (JND et al), Unst, 1 or 29s between 23 Apr and 10 Oct with movement to Fetlar (I. Sp, M.S.), Bressay, 9 with broken wing, died 6 Jan (DC), Ronas Hill 29 Mar (per RJT) and 11 July (ISR, GO, JDO); Ork, 1Y 9 Papa Westray 21 May (S. Davies), ad g N Ronaldsay 27 May (J. and R. McCutcheon, Dr K.F. Woodbridge), 1Yo 2-4 June (J.W.A. Cutt, Dr K.F. Woodbridge); Banff, Cairngorms ¢ from 1980 seen 2 Apr (Mrs S. Hayes). 35 fLittle Owl Athene noctua At least 2 prs nested Sheavington/Glencaple area; one New Abbey, Kirk Feb - July; one N Berwick, E Loth 5 Apr, 17 Apr and 14 June. +Tawny Owl Strix aluco Breeding: Inv, only 9 of 14 prs successful Glenurquhart; Perth, average season; Kirk, some pairs fairly good season. +Long-eared Owl Asio otus Breeding: few comments except present: more Angus; Dunb/W Stir, 5+ prs Cumbernauld reared 10+ young. Counts: Shet, 6 wintered, last 3 May, from 13 Sep, poor year; Fair Isle, 6 in spring 13 Mar - 31 May, one 22 Sep, 2 on 8th, 3 on 10 Nov, few to 20th; Ork, max 10 Berstane 18 Jan; Isle of May singles 26, 27 and 30 Oct; Arg, 1 Machrihanish 18 June. t{Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Breeding: Ork, apparently no longer breeds Sanday; Inv, Aber and Perth, better season with more prs. Counts: Shet, 3 in spring, 7 autumn, max 3 Skerries 12 Oct; Fair Isle, few 1 Apr - 4 June, max 2 on 11 May, 13 Sep - 18 Oct, max 5 on 12 Oct; Aber, 10 Strathbeg 29 Nov - 6 Dec; Borders, 20+ Tweedsmuir 5 June; Arg, 20 at roost Mull 1 Jan, 11 Machrihanish 28 Dec. +Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Breeding/calling birds: Ross, L Luichart June - July; Arg, Achnamara 27 May, Lochgilphead 15 June; Kirk/Wig, 24 occupied territories located (mainly by use of tape recorder) at 8 sites in Kirk, one in Wig; Dumf, 1 juv dead on road Glencaple 22 Sep; Arran, 9 prs Brodick - Corrie; Bute, 2 Rubha Glas June - this species is probably well under-recorded, although it is obviously now much reduced in numbers. Migrant: 1 Bressay, Shet 12 June. +Swift Apus apus Breeding - only comments: 6 prs breeding in sea cliffs Mull of Kintyre, Arg. Arrivals: 1 May, Ettricks-bridge, Borders; Sth Morton Loch, Fife; 6-8th big arrivals, eg 25 Ayr 7th; 4 Elgin, Moray 8 May, earliest since 1976. Passage: Shet, 10 May - 23 Sep; Fair Isle 10 May - 22 July, max 160 on 9 July (most ever), small nos 5 Aug - 28 Sep; Ork, last N Ronaldsay 1 Oct; Caith, 100 Wick 12 July; Aber, 1 Newburgh 10 Oct; Barrhead, Renf 29 Oct; Prestwick, Ayr 31 Oct. *Alpine Swift Apus melba Three: singles Fair Isle 18 Apr and 4-10 June (J.M.S. Arnott, N.J. Riddiford, B. Wyss et al); one Banchory - Devenick Aber/Kinc, 4-8 June (L. Calle, B.J. Stewart, R. van Meurs). +Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Proved breeding rather few but well distributed Borders to Perth and some reported nests. Outside usual areas: Ross, Dingwall 10 Jan; Inv, Drumnadrochit 28 Aug, Inverness 27-31 Dec; Nairn 1 Sep; Rothes, Moray mid-Sep; Aber/Kinc, Cruden Bay 15 Oct - 14 Dec, Banchory 16 Nov; Angus, 3 records 25 Aug - 14 Oct; Ber, 1 St Abbs 18 Oct; Arg, River Sorn, Islay 9 Sep. *Bee-eater Merops apiaster Two Knocklearoch, Islay 3 June (S.T. Robinson). *Roller Coracias garrulus Juvenile Fair Isle 22 Sep, later found dead (J.F. Holloway, N.J. Riddiford et ai). *Hoopoe Upupa epops About seventeen - very good year. Shet, Whalsay 12-13 Sep (BM), Mid Yell 18 Sep (RJT), Sandwater 5S Oct (KC); Fair Isle 3-5 invidividuals, one 12-14 Apr, singles 15 dates 7-29 May, 1-4 Oct (NJR et al); Ork, Evie 28 Sep, Harray 29th; Moray, Fochabers 14-16 Oct (S. Cruikshank); Aber, Old Deer 21-25 May (per A. Drever); Angus, Rottal Burn 28 Apr; E Loth, Barnsness 4-7 Oct (SW, RDM, PRG), Dirleton 12 Oct (MWE); Arg, Glen Kinglas 7 Sep (T. Healy), Nerabus, Islay 10 Oct (CGB); Lan, Crawfordjohn 23-24 May; Kirk, 1S over Solway, Southerness 6 Oct (IW). (+) WryneckJynx torquilla Spring migration: about 40 birds 18 Apr-6 June: Shet, at least 20 on 11-25 May, max 6 Skerries 12th, one Unst 6 June; Fair Isle, one 18 Apr earliest ever, 30n 11 May, 7 on 12th, 3 on 13th, one 22nd, 2 on 27th and 30th; Ork, singles N Ronaldsay 10 and 16 May, 2 on 22nd; Aber, Drums 14 May; Angus, Usan 1 May; Isle of May 21 May; Ber, St Abbs 6-7 May. Summer - no proved nesting but probably doing so: Inv, pr Apr - June, pr apparent breeding mid May, 5 at one site 28 May, singles at 6 other sites 18 May - 30 June. Autumn: Shet, 5 records 26 Aug - 4 Sep, 18 between 11-28 Sep, max 5 Whalsay 12th, one Skerries 8 Oct; Fair Isle, small nos 23 Aug - 5 Oct, mainly 11-27th, max 60n 11 Sep, 7 on 12th; Ork, about 12 records 4 sites 4-30 Sep, max 3 N Ronaldsay 14 Sep; E Loth, Barnsness 4-9 Oct; Ayr, Largs 19 Sep. +Green Woodpecker Picis viridus Breeding: noted as commoner Lan, Renf, Dunb and Perth; Aber/N Kinc, proved nesting 1 site, probable at 3 and possible further 19; Inv, expansion continued Strathspey, 2 prs+ nested and birds at 9 other sites; Moray, singles Rothes 12-13 Mar and Archiestown mid Nov; Ross, 1 Coulmore 20 Feb. +Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopus major Breeding - no reported changes. Migrants: Shet, Fetlar 16-17 Sep, Cunningsburgh 5 Oct; Arran, Brodick 16 Oct (1st since 1976). *Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla Six: Shet, Fetlar 23-28 Sep (J.N. Dymond); Fair Isle, 19-26 Sep, 25-26 Sep, 1 Oct, 6 Oct, 10-11 Oct (N.J. Riddiford et al) - five of the grey eastern race. *Woodlark Lullula arborea One St Abbs, Ber 1 Nov (SRW), first for Ber. +Skylark Alanda atvensis Breeding: few comments: Fair Isle, estimated 50 prs; Inv, increase Rhum; Dunb, 100+ prs nested Palacerigg. Passage and counts: Fair Isle peaks 50 on 5 Mar, 200 on 21st, 700 on 25 Sep and 3-5 Oct; Caith, noticeable passage S in mid Dec cold, 1000 Thurso - Scrabster 20 Dec; Aber, 532SW Cruden Bay 7 Dec; Angus, cold weather 3-5000 Easthaven 24 Dec; Fife Ness 650+ on 23 Dec; E Loth, 2000 Aberlady mid Dec; Lan, 1200 Gadloch 12 Dec; Ayr, heavy passage S on 14 Dec, 750S/hr Ayr on 14th; Kirk, many forced down by blizzard on hills 24 Apr. *Shore Lark Eromophila alpestris Winter-spring: 1 Tyninghame, E Loth 21 Feb; 1 Papa Westray, Ork 22 May; 2 Fair Isle 10 May. Autumn: Sumburgh, Shet 1 Nov; Fair Isle, 2 on 8 Oct, 1 to 13th, S on 1 Nov; 2 N Ronaldsay 9 Oct, 10-11th, 4 on 15-24th, 2 Westray 15 Nov; Aber, 8 Rattray 25 Dec; Midl, 1 Musselburgh 2-5 Nov; O Heb, 2N Rona 9-11 Oct, 3 on 19-21st, one 23-24th; E Loth, 2 Tyninghame from 14 Nov, 3 on 29 Dec. +Sand Martin Riparia riparia Breeding: more Moray, fewer Fife, Mull; W Stir, 500 prs Drumbeg sand quarry; Kirk/Wig, no longer breeds Upper Minnoch. Arrivals: 26 Mar, 1 Tweedbank, Borders; 27th, Selk, Midl and 19 Martnaham, Ayr, more Ist records 28-30th, main arrivals mid Apr. Counts: Shet, 40 Baltasound 13 May; Fair Isle 9 May - 11 June, max 15 on 27th; Inv, 400 insh 18 Aug. Late records: 30 Sep, Kingscross, Arran; 3 Oct, L Ken, Kirk. +Swallow Hirundo rustica Breeding: Shet, 4 prs; Ork/O Heb, good season and increase. Arrivals: 27 Mar, Wig;.29 Mar, Drumoak, Aber; 31 Mar, Renf; 4 Apr, Fair Isle - earliest ever; mainly 2nd week Apr in S, but late Apr blizzard caused problems and main arrivals.early May. Passage and counts: Shet, peak 90 Whalsay 37 8 May; Fair Isle, mainly 5 May - 17 June, max 140 on 12 May, 100 on 24th and 28th, autumn max 35 on 21 Sep; Angus, 1000 Balgavies 23 Aug, 1000 Forfar Sep; Perth, 5000 Tay roost 5S Sep; Isle of May., max 80 on 29 Sep; Midl, 1000+ Duddingston 7 Sep; Dunb, 3500 Condorrat 29 Aug; Ayr, 2000 Kerse L 24 Aug. Late records: 10 Nov, Dunbar, E Loth; 14 Nov, 3 Whiting Bay, Arran. van epee MLMN ge, WMT Mh Be ott 1 ais Hi pe us sa MLM LN iy MMA UE WV SS WN tues Lf Iu Tlie —— MM ‘ A j Meee Scere SONS M1 tee MNT isis, ~ SMU Hii AL +House Martin Delichon urbica Breeding: Caith, better year; N Kinc, 35 prs at 2 cliff sites Catterline; E Loth, 42 nests Dunbar is double 1980 total; Renf, good increase Kilmacolm; low numbers and very late - effects of blizzard. Arrivals: 16 Mar, Baron’s Haugh, Lan; 26th, Pot Loch, Ber; 29th, 4 Endrick Mouth, Dunb; generally Ist records mid Apr and main passage in 2nd week May. Counts: Shet, max 200 Dun 26 May, 60 Sumburgh 18 Sep; Fair Isle, 8 May - 17 June, max 100 on 24 May, 12 Sep - 3 Oct, max 30 on 22nd; Ayr, 200 Doonfoot 6 Sep. Late records: 14 Nov, singles Carlingheugh Bay, Angus and Kilmacolm, Renf; 20 Nov, Aberdeen. *Richard’s Pipit Anthus novalseelandiae Fourteen: Shet, Sumburgh 15-16 (J.D. Okill, I. Sandison), Skerries 21 Sep, 22-26 Oct (D.M. Pullan, E. Tait), Bressay 22 Sep (M.S. Chapman), Sumburgh 4 Oct (MSC), Virkie 5-6 Oct (MCS), Spiggie 15 Oct (J.D. Okill); Fair Isle, 16-25 Sep, another 21-28th, another 28th, 5-6 Oct with 2 on 6th, 25 Oct - 1 Nov (six in all) (NJR et al); Ork, Deerness 12 Sep (R.H. Dennis, E.R. Meek). *Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris One Newburgh, Aber 14 May (K.B. Shepherd, C.R. Mackay, etal). *Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni One Fair Isle 4-5 Oct (J.C. Gregory, N.J. Riddiford et a/); another 11-12 Oct (J.N. Dymond, J.F. Holloway etal). +Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Breeding: Arg, not as plentiful Mull; E Dunb/W Stir, 40+ prs at 16 sites Cumbernauld - Kilsyth; Renf, good increase Kilmacolm. Arrivals: 6 Apr Arg; 9th L Ken, Kirk; more in mid April. Passage: Shet, 7 May - 4 June, max 80 Skerries 12 May, 10 Sep - 6 Oct, max 100 Bressay 22 Sep; Fair Isle, 17 Apr - 29 May, max 50 on 12 and 18 May, 22 Aug - 9 Oct, max 140 on 15 Sep; O Heb, singles Lewis and S Uist 7 May. Last 6th, Barnsness, E Loth. +Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Breeding: Renf, good season but poor in upland Ayr and Kirk where many failed in wet weather. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, 15 Mar - 22 Nov, max 220 on 30 Mar, 400 on 7 May, 600 on 5 Sep, 1000 on 6th, 1500 on 8th; Aber, 300 Strathbeg 14 Sep. *Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus One Musselburgh, Midl 15 Sep (A.D. Inglis, Dr L.L.J. Vick). +Rock Pipit Anthus spinoletta Breeding: Fair Isle, excellent season. Counts: 54 N end Sanday 29 Nov; 70 Isle of-May 7 Aug; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 11 Aug. Scandinavian Jittoralis: 2 Fife Ness 29 Mar, singles Don, Aber 16-19 Mar, Inverugie 24-26 Mar. A bird Scatness, Shet 13-14 May showed characteristics of american race rubescens (MSC, CK, CR). +Yellow Wagtail Molacilla flava flavissima Breeding: N Ayr, 30% decrease to 15 prs, poor season due to rain; Lan, cl5+ nesting including at least 2¢¢ with flava characteristics and one at Neilston, Renf 21 May like cinereocapilla; Borders, 1+ prs nested; E Loth, 1 pr nested successfully - lst record apparently; Aber, ? bred successfully Murcar with 9 flava; Fair Isle, pr bred, 1st clutch failed, may have reared 2nd attempt. Arrivals from 12 Apr, Shet, more than usual in spring; 1 Alvie, Inv 16 May; 70 Strathaven, Lan Aug. Blue-headed wagtail flava: few Shet from 20 May; Fair Isle, singles 9 dates 13-27 May, 23 Sep; Angus, Arbroath 14 May; Midl, Musselburgh 3 May; E Loth, Aberlady 16 May; Arg, Islay 7 May. Grey-headed Wagtail thunbergi: Shet, singles Fetlar and Unst 13 May, Whalsay 14th, Baltasound 22nd; Fair Isle, one 15-17 May, one 25 Sep; Caith, Noss Head 16 May; E Loth, Dunbar 14 May. *Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola Immature Aberlady, E Loth 14-16 Sep (A. Brown, P.M. Ellis, P-R. Gordon et a/). +Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Breeding: Ork, 2 pairs nested; O Heb, now absent; Perth, poor season - low nos; Arran, increase to 14+ prs. Migrants: Shet, 8 between 31 Mar and 17 Oct; Fair Isle, 1-3 some days 26 Mar - 8 Apr, 1-2 between 16 Sep and 25 Oct, max 3 on S Oct; Inv, present Insh 13 Mar - 5 Oct, max 18 on 18 Aug; Ayr, 145/hr Prestwick 23 Sep. +Pied/ White Wagtail Motacilla alba yerrelli Breeding: Shet, 3 prs nested; Isle of May, 3 prs nested; E Loth, good season; Kirk, very poor success Glentrool, only 10 young from 11 nests. alba: mixed pr nested successfully L Fada, Skye; pr alba with 2 young Trinafour, Perth 13 July. Highest count: Moray, 700 Kinloss 3 Aug. White Wagtail a/ba migration: Shet, lst 28 Mar; Fair Isle 6 Mar - 27 May, max 10 on 11 May, 1 Aug - 14 Oct, max 120 on 5 Sep; Aber, more than usual, max 6 Don est 2 May; Midl, max 6 Musselburgh 6 May; E Loth, 6 Aberlady 16 Apr; Ayr, 25+ Turnberry 25 Apr. Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Winter - spring: 1 Harpsdale, Caith 18 Jan; Aber, 1 Peterhead 11 Jan, 2 Mintlaw 27 Jan. Autumn influx about 450 birds from 22 Oct: County totals, peak counts: Shet, 23 Oct - 26 Nov, max 8 Lerwick 1 Nov; Fair Isle, 6 between 23 Oct - 7 Nov; Ork, cl2 between 1 Nov - 10 Dec; O Heb, 7 Stornoway Oct - Nov; Caith, 3 Scrabster 16 Nov; Ross, 4 singles Nov - Dec; Inv, max 30 Cannich 23 Nov, 12 Insh 13 Dec; Moray/Banff, max 20 Banff Dec; Aber, good influx from 23 Oct, max 30 Aberdeen 26 Nov, 50 on 8 Dec; Angus (3), Perth, max 15 Blairgowrie 30 Nov, 15 Callander 28 Nov; Fife, 7 Glenrothes 18 Dec; Stir, (12), 7 Stirling 8 Dec; Midl, (13); E Loth, (40-60), max 21 Dirleton 7 Nov; Borders (9); Arg, 1 Islay 4 Nov; Arran, 3 Sannox 1 Nov; W Stir, 5 Drymen 28 Nov; Lan, (1); Ayr (4). +Dipper Cinclus cinclus Breeding: Arran, increase to 7 prs; Kirk, low nos uplands; Perth, moderate season, early nest Ist egg 24 Feb; Angus, 1 Forfar Loch early Aug. 39 tWren Troglodytes troglodytes Breeding: Fair Isle fridariensis population still very low at 10 singing ; Inv, Garten CBC (13 prs in 1980); Fife, Tentsmuir census noticeable increase; recovery in nos noted many areas. Counts: Skerries, Shet passage 13 Sep - 8 Nov, max 2 on 14 and 25 Oct; Isle of May, max 12 on 8-9 Oct; big decrease in Dec severe freeze up. t+Dunnock Prunella modularis Breeding: decrease Tentsmuir, Fife, but increase and good success Renf, Kirk. Migration and counts: Fair Isle, 10 Mar - 2 June, mainly 26 Mar - 25 Apr, max 16 0n 9 Apr, 11 Aug - 26 Oct, max 25 on 5 Oct; Isle of May, very poor nos, max 10 on 4-5 Oct; Ber, peak 40 St Abbs 18 Oct; Renf, 170 Longhaugh - Woodhall tideline in cold weather 18-19 Jan. tRobin Erithacus rubecula Breeding: Inv, increase to 20 prs Garten CBC from 15 in 1980; Fife, 67% increase Tentsmuir; W Loth, decrease to 8 prs Carriber from 14 prs. Migration and counts: Shet, small nos 27 Mar - May, max 10 Fetlar 29 Mar, and from 11 Sep, max 40 Fetlar 16 Sep; Fair Isle, a poor year, max 25 on 3 Apr, 40 on 30 Sep; Ork, max 11 Sanday 9 Apr; Isle of May, poor year max 50 on 4 Oct; Ber, 88 Burnmouth 27 Sep; noticeable reduction throughout country in Dec freeze-up. *Thrush Nightingale /uscinia luscinia Three: 2 Noss Head, Caith 11-12 May, one to 1Sth (K.W. Banks, H. Clark, E.W.E. Maughan er a/); one killed by cat Newburgh, Aber 12 May (Dr C.H. Fry). *Nightingale Luscinia megarhychos Two: Whalsay, Shet 12 May (BM); Isle of May 22 Oct (MPH et al). Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A very large influx of Red-spotteds, possibly about 275 birds in May; Shet, at least 160 in islands 11-27 May, max 33 Skerries 12th, 13+ Fetlar, and 13+ Sumburgh on 13th, another wave on 15th with 10 new birds Skerries, last 7 June; Fair Isle, 12. on 11 May, 30 0n 12th, 14-20 (some turnover) daily to 18th, fewer to 4 June; Ork, about 15, from Ist 3 Sanday 10-16 May, other max 3 N Ronaldsay 12 May; Caith, 1 Noss 11 May, 14 on 13th, singles to 19th, 1 Wick 14th, 1 Forss 16th; Aber, large fall, at least 17, from 12 May, max 3 Girdleness 12th, 3 Rattray 14th, last on 17th; Isle of May, at least 12, Son 11 May, 8 8 on 12th, 10th on 13th, 8 on 14th, 3 singles later to 11 June; Fife, 1 Kingsbarns, 1 Fife ness 13-15 May; Ber, singles St Abbs 11 and 16 May. Autumn: 14 birds: Shet, 3 Skerries 11-14 Sep, singles 3rd and 19-27 Oct, a Bressay 22 Sep: Fair Isle, 1 on 9-10 Sep, 3 on 11th, singles 15-16th, 22nd and 6-17 Oct; O Heb, singles S Uist 12 Sep and North Rona 15-16 Oct. *Red-flanked Bluetail Zarsiger cyanutus One, first year probably , Fair Isle 29-30 Sep (P. Milburn, N.J. Riddiford et a/). *Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Two in winter, cSO+ in spring and 7 in autumn: Shet, 1 Skerries 9-10 Mar, 12+ at 7 sites 27 Mar - 3 Apr, 2 singles in Apr, 3 Fetlar in May and 6 elsewhere 7-26 May, 1 Dun 19 Sep; Fair Isle, 1 on 26 Mar, 1-3 some days 29 May - 27 May, singles Ist and 8 Nov; Ork, c8 from 29 Mar - 7 June, max 2 N Ronaldsay 1 Apr and 12 May, one there 5 Oct; Caith, Wick 20 May; Aber, Drums 13 May, Rattray 13-15 May, Nigg 4 Oct; Isle of May, singles on 18 days 1 Apr - 12 June, 2 on 2 Apr; E Loth, 1 Dunbar 14 Jan - 5 Feb; Ber, St Abbs 28 Mar, Selkirk 10-13 Apr; Arg, Islay 31 Mar, Mull of Kintyre 14 Apr; Lan, Summerston 4 4 Nov; Ayr, 1 Greenan-10 Jan - 25 Apr; Kirk, Port o’ Warren 31 Aug. tRedstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus Breeding: Garten CBC down to 15 prs (19 prs in 1980); Perth, 33 prs at nest box col, 7 nests failed, 151 fledged; Loth, high nos maintained; Kirk, good nos and success, best year since early 1970s. 40 a te Arrivals: 11 Apr L Garten, Inv; 12th, 2 Menteith, Perth and 1 Fair Isle; more 13th; main passage mid May. Migration and counts: Shet, peaks 120 Skerries 12 May, 73 Whalsay 14 Sep, 100 Fetlar 16 Sep, last 25 Oct; Fair Isle, max 35 on 11 May, 60 on 12th, 50 on 12 Sep, last 11 Nov; O Heb, 1 Mingulay 22 Sep; Isle of May poor year, 5 May - 6 Oct. $Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Breeding: Perth and Mull seemed fewer; N Kirk, good nos and success; Arran, 35 prs known, 43+ young ringed; Dunb/W Stir, 60-63+ prs at 18 sites Cumbernauld and Kilsyth. Arrivals: 11 Apr, 1 Noss Head, Caith; 12th, Tarfessock, Ayr and Glentrool, Kirk; mostly from Ist week May. Winter records: 2 Philip-burn, Selk, 23 Jan, 1 Ryemuir, Dumf 31 Jan and 1 West Water, Ber 12 Dec are very unusual. Migration: Shet, big influx 11-12 May, max 160 Skerries 12th, 150 Fetlar 16 Sep; Fair Isle, 14 Apr - 4 June, 50 on 12 May, 25 Aug - 12 Oct, max 100 on 15-16 Sep; Ork, max 40 Deerness and 40 Grimness 12 Sep, last Sanday 9 Nov; Caith, 40 Noss Head 15 Sep; Isle of May, max 20 on 30 Aug. t¢Stonechat Saxicola torquata Numbers slightly improved in nearly all areas but again affected by Dec freeze-up; Arran, 34 prs was increase; Ork, 3 newly fledged young on 26 Sep probably a 3rd brood so good season. Migration: Shet, singles 28 Mar and 11 May; Fair Isle, singles on 5 days 28 Mar - 22 May plus on 2 Apr, 1-2 on 3 dates 30 Sep - 4 Oct. Eastern stonechat S.t. maura/stejnegeri: Singles: Shet,¢ Sumburgh 24 Sep (M.S. Chapman), 9 or imm Fetlar 19-20 Oct (J.N. Dymond); Fair Isle,@ or imm 10 Oct (A.R. Kitson et a/); Ork,2 or imm Birsay 21 Oct (E.R. Meek). +Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Breeding: good success Fair Isle; Midl, 43 prs Moorfoot Valley, some failed due to cold NW winds in June. Arrivals: 14 Mar, Great Cumbrae, Bute; 17th, singles Urioch and Troston, Kirk; 19th, Rendall, Ork, most Ist dates 27-29 Mar. Migration: Shet, max 250 Skerries 12 May, inclucing leucorrhoa; Fair Isle, 29 Mar - 1 Nov, peaks 450 on 12 May (100+ leucorrhoa), 25 on 6 Sep; Aber, peak leucorrhoa 16 Whinnytold 14 May; last record Bonchester Bridge, Borders 26 Nov. *Black-eared Wheatear Oenunthe hispanicau One Skerries, Shet 2-26 Sep (D. Coutts, D.M. Pullan, E. Tait etal). +4Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Breeding: Midl, 4 prs Moorfoot Valley (usually 6-7 prs); Borders, good nos; Inv, 5+ prs nested Rhum. Arrivals: 10 Mar, Medwin Valley, Borders; 16th, Glen Quaich, Perth; 27th, Ist in N, Braemar, Aber. Migration: Shet, small nos 4 Apr - 27 May, 1 Sep - 1 Oct; Fair Isle, 7 Apr - 10 June, max 12 on 12 May, 14 Sep - 25 Oct, max 30 on 10 Oct; Ork, max S N Ronaldsay 9 Oct; last Aber, 4 Dinnet 1 Noy. +Blackbird 7urdus merula Breeding: 4 prs Garten CBC, 2 prs in 1980; Fife, 43% increase Tentsmuir CBC only comments of note. Migration: Shet, low nos, max 65 Skerries 25-26 Mar; Fair Isle, peaks 300 on 26 Mar, 120 on 19 Oct, 250 on 4 Nov; Caith, 100 Noss 18 Oct; Isle of May 100 on 18-19 Oct; Ber, 100+ St Abbs 19 Oct. *Eye-browed Thrush Turdus obscurus AS Newburgh, Aber 27 May (A. Anderson, M.V. Bell, A.G. Knox). *Black-throated Thrush Jurdus ruficollis One, tirst-winter, Rora Head, Lerwick, Shet 7 Dec (D. Coutts, M. Heubeck ev al). tFieldfare Turdus pilaris Breeding: | pr nested Inv, 1-2 juvs seen on 13 July; Borders, pr on territory early June but no confirmed breeding; Perth, 2 seen 19 July. Winter and spring: Shet, large passage 6-12 May, max 200 Skerries, 41 stragglers to 8 June; Fair Isle, 8 Mar - 13 June, mainly 30 Mar - 8 Apr, max 300 on 30th, and 3-15 May, max 500 on 10th, 700 on 12th; Aber/Kinc, large nos in May, max 4500 Banchory - Devenick 10 May; Angus, 2000 Glen Lethnot 26 Apr; Midl, 1500 Middleton 6 May; Ber, 4000 Coldingham 25 Apr; Ayr, 2600 Sinclairston 30 Apr. Autumn: nos rather low; Shet, from 31 Aug, max 1000 Sumburgh 4 Oct; Fair Isle, from 8 Aug, peaks 1500 on 9 Oct, 3500 on 18 Oct; Isle of May max 300 on 18 Oct; Loth/Borders, mainly 18 Oct, max 1100 Lindean; Renf, very low nos, main passage 15-17 Oct, 14-25th and 7 Nov; Dumf, max 2000 Glencaple 5 Nov. +Song Thrush Turdus philomelos. Breeding: Inv, 9 prs Garten CBC (6 prs in 1980); 50% increase Tentsmuir CBC; Ayr, nest 4 eggs 31 Jan, but failed; W Loth, 2 prs Carriber CBC (4 prs in 1980). Migration: Shet, rather low nos, max SO Fetlar 27 Sep; Fair Isle, max 40 on 8 Mar, 300 on 4 Oct; W Ross, 100 Diabaig 16 Oct; Isle of May, 100 on 4 Oct; Ber, 50 St Abbs 19 Oct. +Redwing Trudus iliacus Breeding: Suth, 59 singing 3 areas; N Inv, 12 prs nesting and 49° in song, successful several sites; S and E Inv, 2 prs bred and song at 9 sites; ‘Moray, one in song and 1 seen 26 July. Winter - spring: Shet, small nos; Fair Isle, small nos, max 30 on 1 Apr and 6 May; Aber/N Kinc, max 500 Banchory - Devenick 10 May. Autumn: Shet, from 8 Sep, max 2000 Fetlar 27 Sep, 5000 Sumburgh 4 Oct; Fair Isle, 11 Sep - late Nov, peaks 1500 on 27th, 2000 on 28th, 10000 on 4 Oct; Aber, low nos, max 1200 Dinnet 4 Oct; Isle of May peaks 60 on 30 Sep, 650 on 3 Oct; Arg, 5000 Lochdon, Mull 30 Sep; Renf/Ayr, low nos, max 200, fresh influx in cold weather, max 300 Bishopton 9 Dec. tMistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Breeding - no comments. Counts and passage: Shet, few 7-30 Mar, max 4 Fetlar 11th; Fair Isle, 1-3 on few dates 8 Mar - 6 June, singles 8 Aug, 30 Sep and 9 Oct; Ork, max 10 N Ronaldsay 29 Mar; O Heb, 3 Harris 12 Oct; Aber, 110 Blackhall July; E Loth, 50 Lochhouses 16 July; Renf, 62 Auchen- dores 22 Sep; Inv, 100 Insh 21 Sep. *American Robin 7urdus migratorius One Achins, Reay, Caith 5 Nov (D.M. Edge, E.W.E. Maughan). *Pallas’s Grasshopper Warbler. Locustella certhiola One Fair Isle 21 Sep (P.K. Greaves, N.J. Riddiford, J.M. Turton er a/). +Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Breeding: Wig, increase in W; E Loth, more; Perth, fewer; O Heb, Ist singing Stornoway for 7 years. Arrivals: 12 Apr, 1 Fair Isle; 16th, another Fair Isle, singles Glenburn, Ayr and Cumbernauld, Dunb; more 17th onwards. Migration: Shet, c3 in May, 11 in Sep/Oct; Fair Isle, 5 in May, passage 28 Aug - 4 Oct, max 4 on 13-16 Sep, 12 on 22nd, 7-8 to 25th; Isle of May singles 8 May, 12-14 May; E Loth, 1 Barnsness 4 Oct. *River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis One Fair Isle 23-24 May, found dead 25th (P. Alker, N.J. Riddiford, C.D. Rowley et ai). *Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscindoides One Fair Isle 24 June (D.G. Borton, N.J. Riddiford et a/); first record since two on Fair Isle in May, 1908. 4+Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Breeding: Aber, c260 singing birds Strathbeg May; Angus, 98 prs Kinnordy; poor season for juvs; Dunb/W Stir, 103 prs upper Kelvin Valley; Renf, 90.prs Lochwinnoch; Wig, decreased in W. Arrivals: 3 Apr, 1 Kilchoman, Islay; 1Sth, Cumbernauld, Dunb; 22nd, Aberlady, E Loth; mostly Ist week May. Migration: Shet, 11-30 May, max 15 Skerries 12 May; Fair 41 Isle, 10 May - 11 June, max 11 on 22nd, 29 Aug - 23 Sep, max S on 12 and 14th; Isle of May, 20 on 13 May; last Forfar Loch, Angus 25 Sep. *Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris 5 birds: Shet, 1 Whalsay 4 June (BM); Fair Isle, Ist June, 2 on 2-4 June, 11th July (NJR er al); Caith, 1 Noss Head 15 May (AFCMC, PMC). Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Spring 9 May - 26 June; Shet, singles 7 sites 9 May - 3 June; Fair Isle, 4 singles 21 May - 11 June; Isle of May 17 May, 2 June, 2 on 3rd, 1to Sth; Arg, 1 L Gorm, Islay 26 June. Autumn: Shet, more than usual 11-30 Sep, c35 during 11-16th and another influx 23rd when max 8 Fetlar; Fair Isle, more than usual, 3 on 11 Sep, 9 on 12, 15 on 13-14th, 8-10 to 17th, later peak 5 on 23rd, few singles to 9 Oct; Ork, more than usual, 13-30 Sep, max 3 N Ronaldsay 13 Sep; Caith, Noss Head 20 Sep; Aber, Drums 12 Sep, Inverugie 20 Sep; Perth, 1 Errol 2 Aug is very interesting; E Loth, Barnsness 5-6 Oct; Ber, St Abbs 6 Oct. *Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus One Noss Head, Caith 12-13 May (K.W. Banks, H. Clark er ai). *Icterin Warbler: Hippolais icterina Spring: Shet, singles Skerries 12 May, Fetlar 26th, Gutcher 3 June, Baltasound (song) 20 June; Fair Isle, 24 May, 2 on 26-29th, one 7 June; Ork, N Ronaldsay 26-27 May; Caith, Noss Head 27 May; Fife, song Tentsmuir Pt 15 May. Autumn: Shet, singles at 9 sites 3-27 Sep; Ork, N Ronaldsay 11-13 Sep; Ber, Burnmouth 12 Sep. *Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta Three: Shet, Sumburgh 10 Sep (J.D. Okill); Fair Isle 1S June (N.J. Riddiford er al); Isle of May 6-16 June (Dr. M.P. Harris etal). *Booted Warbler Hippolais caligata One Skerries, Shet 11-17 Sep (D.M. Pullan, E. Tait). *Subalpine Warbler: Sylvia cantillans Four: Shet, 9 Whalsay 8 May (Dr. B. Marshall), ¢ Skerries 12 May (J.N. Dymond); @ Wick, Caith 15 May (K.W. Banks, E.W.E. Maughan); o St Abb’s, Ber 26-28 June (P.M. Ellis, S.R. Warman etal). *Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala c Isle of May 30 May (N. Aebischer et al), *Barred Warbler Sy/via nisoria About 65 between 9 Aug and 12 Oct. Shet, 1st Dun 21 Aug, 3 Fetlar 23rd, 28 birds from 30 Aug - 29 Sep; Fair Isle, 1st 9-26 Aug, next 21st, 2 on 23rd, 1-4 on most days 28 Aug - 18 Sep, late singles 28, 30 Sep, 4, 11-12 Oct; Ork, 1 N Ronaldsay 30 Aug, 10-11 Sep, 2 on 13th, 1 on 14th and 17th, singles Deerness and Kirkwall 6 Sep; Caith, Wick 4 Sep; Ross, N Kessock 8 Oct; Aber, Drums 4 Oct; Angus, Carlinheugh Bay 4 Oct; Isle of May, 30 Aug, 31st, 1 Sep, Son 2 Sep, 2 on 3 Sep, singles to 6th, one 6 Oct; E Loth, Barnsness 4 Oct; Ber, 2 St Abbs 3 Oct. +Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Breeding: Some interesting range extensions: Midl, present and breeding Cousland, 1 Blackford Hill; E Loth, most ever singing birds at 4 sites, max up to 3 at Aberlady (possibly bred); Borders, family party Coldingham 12 July, one of 3 proved breeding reports; Kirk, 1 Song Kenmure Holms 15 May, 1 alarm calling as if with young L Ken 28 June; Angus, pr Arbroath 22 May - 10 July reared 2 young was Ist.Angus nesting record; Inv, 1 in song Garten 18-21 June, 1-3 (2 in song) Pityoulish 14-23 June. Migration: Shet, 7-27 May, max 16 Skerries 12th, 2 Sep - 10 Nov, max 5 Fetlar 16 Sep; Fair Isle, peaks 16 on 12 May, 11 on 16 Sep; Ork, 9 May - 26 June, 11 Sep - 5 Nov, max 5 on N Ronaldsay 12 May; Caith, 6 Noss 13 May; Isle of May 10 on 8 May; Ber, Ist St Abbs 17 Apr; Renf, 1 Ralston 6 Sep; Ayr, 1 Doonfoot 11-12 Aug. +Whitethroat Sy/via communis Breeding: O Heb, pr nested Stornoway, Ist for 10 years; most areas report nos as 1980. Arrivals: 17 Apr, N Ronaldsay, Ork; 20th, Carron Valley, Stir; 25th, Dunure, Ayr; mainly 9-12 May. Migration: Shet, 8 May - 1 July, max 53 Skerries 11-12 May, autumn S Sep - 1 Oct, max 11 Whalsay 12-13th; Fair Isle, 6 May - 12 June, max 20 on 12 May, 11 Aug - 5 Oct, max 12 on 12 Sep; Isle of May, small nos, max 14 on 13 May; last Pease Bay, Ber 6 Oct. +Garden Warbler Sy/via borin Breeding: continues to increase Beauly, Drumna- drochit, Strathspey; Perth, good nos; S Ayr, high nos. Arrivals: 25 Apr, singles Kippo, Fife and Arg; mostly early May. Migration: Shet, few 8 May - 4 June, more 26 July - 22 Oct, max 72 Whalsay 11-13 Sep; Fair Isle, 11 May - 28 June, max 12 on 4 June, large nos autumn, max 200 on 11 Sep, 120 on 12th, another influx 90 on 15th and 400 on 21st (highest ever); Ork, influxes 10-12 Sep, 21 Sep when max 40 N Ronaldsay, last 27 Oct; Caith, 150 Noss Head 20 Sep; Isle of May, max only 12 0n 15 Sep; Ber, 35 St Abbs 3 Oct; last Aberdeen 17 Nov. +Blackeap Sy/via atricapilla Breeding: usual status Kirk to Inv and singing?Ss N to NW Suth and Ork. Migration: Shet, small nos 29 Mar - 4 June, more from 6 Sep, max 60 Fetlar 21-22 Sep; Fair Isle, small nos 12 Apr - 17 June, max 12 from 6 Sep, heavy passage 11 Sep - 10 Oct, 70.on 20 Sep, 1000+ on 21st was 5 times higher than previous record total, down to 150 on 22nd, further influxes 70 on 29th, 60 on Ist and 7 Oct; Ork, peak 50 Holm and 60 N Ronaldsay 21 Sep; Caith, max.70 Noss Head 20 Sep; isle of May, max 80 on 3-4 Oct; Ber, 150 St Abbs 3 Oct. Summary of winter records: Jan Feb Mar Nov Dec North (Shet-O Heb-Inv) 4 4 1 38+ 1S Central (Moray-Clack-Arg) 10 9 1 14 18 South (Clyde-Forth- Borders) 4 4 2 10 12 24th *Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus tronchiloides Four singles: Fair Isle 16 Sep (A. Broome, D. Gibbs, N.J. Riddiford et al); Ork, N Ronaldsay 17 Sep (Dr K.F. and Mrs H.P. Woodbridge), another 10 Oct (M. Gray, G. Macdonald), Holm 26-27 Sep (E.R. Meek, M. Gray). *Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis 11 singles: Shet, Voe 10-12 Sep (MSC, MP et al) §, Virkie 12-14 Sep (J.D. Hall et af), Whalsay 12 Sep (Dr B. Marshall, W. Meechan, J.J. Sweeney), another 13th (Dr B. Marshall, I.S. Robertson et al), Lunna Ness 14-15 Sep (C. Kightley, M. Parr et al), Lerwick 16 Sep (J.D. Hall, J.D. Okill et a/), Boddam 6 Oct (M. Heubeck), Stromfirth 13 Oct (IS, IKS)§;Uyeasound 22-25 Oct (ISp)§; Fair Isle 22 Aug (N.J. Riddiford et af); Ork, Holm 1S Sep (R.G. Adam, E.R. Meek, A.D. Rendall). *Pallas’s Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus One near Tyninghame 22-23 Oct (R.F. and Mrs J.P. Durman ef aJ). Also one North Sea oil rig ‘‘Auk Alpha’’ 18 Oct, about 300 km E of Fife Ness (R.A. Schofield). 44 *Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus About 50 between 12 Sep and 7 Nov; Shet, lst Sumburgh 13 Sep, cl3 at 8 sites to 30th, 2 Kergord 6 and 14 Oct, 9 singles at 9 sites to 31st, last Swining 7 Nov; Fair Isle, 1-2 on most days 15 Sep - 12 Oct, 3 on 24-25th and 9 Oct, 4 on 10 Oct, one 18 Oct; Caith, Stirkoke 16 Oct; Ork, Berstane 18 Sep, Holm Ist and 4 Oct, N Ronaldsay Ist and 9 Oct; Fife Ness 25-28 Oct; Isle of May, singles 8-9 Oct, 18 Oct; Ber, St Abbs 4 Oct, 2-3 on 5-6th; Lan, Dungavel 6 Oct (IE & RM); Ayr, Dunure 12 Sep (JKRM). *Bonelli’s Warbler Phylloscopus bonelli One Skerries, Shet 22 Sep (D.M. Pullan, E. Tait). +Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Breeding: no changes, except fewer Mull; 1 in song Stornoway, O Heb. Arrivals: 14 Apr Fair Isle; 29th Peebles; 2 May L Ken, Kirk, mostly 2nd week May. Migration: Shet, small nos 8 May - 4 June, 22 Aug - 13 Oct, max 4 Tolob 3 Sep, very late one Veensgarth 24-25 Oct; Fair Isle, singles 6 dates 11 May - 6 June, singles 5 days Sep, also 3 on 2nd, 2 on 2ist; Ork, 1 in May, 2 in Sep; Isle of May, singles 13 May, 31 Aug - 2 Sep. tChiffchatf Phylloscopus collybitta Breeding: usual singing reports many areas; more breeding Glen Trool, Kirk; 1 ad found dead incubating 5 eggs covered in snow Islestepps 24 Apr - blizzard. Arrivals and passage: Shet, 28 Mar - 3 June, max 8 Dun 13 May, light passage 12 Sep - 22 Nov, max 15 Sumburgh 5-6 Oct; Fair Isle, 29 Mar - 24 June, max 12 on 12 Apr and 20 May, small nos 29 Aug - 10 Nov, max 7 on 2 Sep; usual northern birds in late autumn; Isle of May poor nos; Ber, 15 St Abbs 3 Oct; most Ist arrivals about 28-29.Mar. Summary of wintering records: Jan Feb Dec North (Fair Isle & Caith) 1 Central (Moray - Fife) 2 1 South (Clyde-Forth south) 9 1 ome t Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Breeding: Ork, 2 prs bred Hoy; Inv, 53 prs Garten CBC (73 prs in 1980); W Loth, 19 prs Carriber CBC (25 prs in 1980); fewer Mull but more Dunb/Renf; blizzard affected first nesters in SW. Arrivals: 13 Mar New Galloway, Kirk; 29th, Rhum, Inv, more from 3 Apr, many 11-15 Apr but then cold weather held up nos until May. Migration: Shet, peaks 250 Skerries 12 May, 150 Fetlar 11-13 Sep; Fair Isle, 3 Apr - 9 June, max 90 on 15 May, 7 Aug - 5 Oct, max 60 on 2 Sep; Aber, acredula migrants noted 6-14 May; Isle of May, 80 on 8 May, 500 on 14 Aug; Arg, passage Mull of Kintyre 13 Apr - 20 May, max 100 on 9 May. +Golderest Regulus regulus Breeding: Ork, bred 2 sites Hoy; Inv, 25 prs Garten CBC (21 in 1980); Fife, 47% increase Tentsmuir CBC; Renf, increase Kilmacolm. Migration and counts (nos low): Shet, peaks 100 Kergord 28-30 Mar, 22 Whalsay 9 Oct; Fair Isle, 21 Mar - 15 May, max 17 on 6 Apr, 9 Sep - 28 Oct, max 25 on 9 Oct; Isle of May, peaks 12 on 4 Apr, 800n 8 Oct; Ber, peaks St Abbs 65 on 10 Apr. 75 on 18 Oct; Arg, 100+ Mull of Kintyre 1 Apr. *Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus Seven: Shet, Grutness 2 Sep (TJT); Fair Isle, 7 Nov was Ist for island (NJR et al); Ross, Monadh Mor 24 Mar (B. Cooper); Aber, Foveran 4 Oct (SJC); Ber, Eyemouth 9 Sep (ACC); Arg, o Mull of Kintyre 25 May (EJM); Ayr, Alloway 13 Dec (DMD). +Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Breeding: high nos maintained Inv/Moray, fewer Mull; good year and success Ayr/Kirk. Arrivals: 8 Apr, Cumnock, Ayr died 1Sth; 16th, Dunkeld, Perth; 20th, Scoughall, E Loth; snow delayed first arrivals to 45 7-9 May. Migration: Fair Isle 11 May - 11 June, max 25 on 26 May, 22 Aug - 2 Oct, 25 on 14 and 16 Sep is highest ever; Shet, max 21 Whalsay 13 Sep; Ber, max 15 St Abbs 3 Oct; last singles 15 Oct Shet and Ork. *Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva One winter, 3 spring and about 45 in autumn. Winter: 1 Sandside Bay, Reay, Caith 6 Jan (EWEM); Spring singles Sket, Dun, 19 May and Troswick 20 May; Ork, Kirkwall 23 May. Autumn: Shet, 12 Sep - 31 Oct, c22 in Sep, 4in Oct, singles except 2 Whalsay 12 Sep, different 2 on 13th, 2 Lerwick 11 Oct; Fair Isle 2 on 15 Sep, singles 24 Sep, 4-6 Oct, 8 Nov; Ork, singles N Ronaldsay 11, 12, 23 Sep, 3 Oct, Sanday 15 Oct, Binscarth 23 and 25 Oct; Caith, Noss Head 20 Sep, Dunnet Head 20 Sep; Aber/N Kinc, Foveran 18 Sep, 23 Sep, Drums and Girdleness 20 Sep, Cruden Bay 6 Oct; Isle of May 6 Oct; Inv, Rhum 10 Nov; Ber, St Abbs 3-4 Oct. tPied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Breeding: Inv, only 1° Drumnadrochit, pr nested Fort Augustus and Insh, 3 singles elsewhere; Aber, pr bred Deeside; Perth, SW study population down to 32 prs from 38, 115 young ringed, lowest ever fledging success due to poor weather and predation; Kirk, few Glentrool but 5 successful prs had above average broods. Arrivals: 16 Apr, West Kilbride, Ayr; 18th, New Galloway, Kirk; more from 20th, mostly early May. Migration: Shet, peaks SO Skerries 11-12 May, 25 Fetlar 12-13 Sep; Fair Isle, 11-27 May, max 34 on 12 May, 23 Aug - 10 Oct, max 45 on 12 Sep; Ork, very late one Berstane 14 Nov; Caith, 25 Noss 15 Sep; Isle of May, fewer, max 15 on 15 Sep. +Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Breeding: Fife, down 73% Tentsmuir CBC; E Loth, good nos; Renf/Dunb, about average. Counts: Inv, 14 Kinloch, Rhum 19 Oct; E Loth, 45 Dirleton 27 Sep; Dunb, 45 Glencryan 15 Dec. +Marsh Tit Parus palustris Borders: good numbers resident: max counts 12 St Abbs, Ber 23 Oct. +Willow Tit Parus montanus Usual breeding area reports from Borders and SW, possibly some retraction N Glentrool. Counts: 11 Laurieston, Kirk 30 Dec; 12 Ayton, Ber 1 Jan: also 1 Glenbuck, Ayr 5 Aug, 2 on 2 Dec; 1 Carnoustie, Angus 19 Sep. +Crested Tit Parus cristatus Breeding: 1979-80 census estimated 885 prs from Badenoch N to Suth/Ross border and NE to coastal Banff (M. Cook). Inv, 18 prs Garten CBC (23 prs in 1980), 5 Insh 8 July Ist for reserve, found 2 new areas near Inv; Moray/Nairn, good year, 48 young from 9 boxes Culbin; Stir, 1 Sauchie Craig 21 Feb was very unusual (RLC). +Coal Tit Parus ater Breeding: Inv, 33 prs Garten CBC (36 in 1980); Moray/Nairn, no change Culbin. Migrnts and counts: Shet, 1 Virkie 2 Apr; Ber, large nos St Abbs 2 Oct - 17 Nov, max 30 on 4th and 17 Oct. +Blue Tit Parus caeruleus Breeding: O Heb, now breeding Harris and seen N Uist; Inv, 6 prs Garten CBC (5 in 1980); Highlands/Perth, many broods lost due to bad weather; W Loth, 4 prs Carriber (5 prs in 1980); Kirk, nos still low Kirk. Counts and migrants: Shet, 1 Virkie S Oct; Fife Ness, max 40 on 25 Oct; Ber, max 65 St Abbs 4 Oct; Dunb, 70 Glencryan 15 Dec. +Great Tit Parus major Breeding: O Heb, decrease Stornoway; Inv, 6 prs Garten CBC (4 in 1980); increase Moray; W Loth, 6 prs Carriber (3 in 1980). Migration and counts: Shet, 4 wintered Whalsay to 26 Jan, 3 to 2 Apr, another 29 Mar, 1 Tolob 5 Oct, 1 Lerwick 6th, another 11th, 2 to 13th, one to 24 Dec, 1 Levenwick 16 Oct, 1 46 Sumburgh 4 Nov; Ork, 1 Binscarth 19-20 Apr; Ber, many St Abbs 4-27 Oct, 45 on 4 Oct; W Stir, 110 Kilsyth 19 July. *Nuthatch Sitta europaea Two: singles Montrose, Angus early Mar (W. Branner) and at nest box Glenkens, Kirk 20 Apr (WJLC) but still no Scottish nesting record. +Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Breeding: Inv, 15 prs Garten CBC (20 prs in 1980); Renf, 7 prs Lochwinnoch (4 prs in 1980); good survival Kirk; Ork, 1 migrant Binscarth, Ork 7 Dec. *Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus Ten: Shet, Strand 17 May (MSC, CR), Baltasound 23-26 May (JM, RQ, ISp), Skellister 28 May (MH), prob same Nesting 3 June (TDR), N Roe 3 June (MR); Fair Isle 7 Nov (NJR et al); Ork, 1 killed by cat Eday 16 May (D. Kemp), 1 N Ronaldsay 23-26 May (KFW); Aber, o Strathbeg 24 May (HJD); Inv,¢ near Aviemore 18 June - 27 July (IPG). *Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus Two: 1 Kergord 15 Oct (M.S. Chapman) §;¢ Fair Isle 9-12 Oct, showed characteristics closest to speculigerus (N.J. Riddiford, G. Bashford et al). Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio None found breeding but inland Inv, “20 June, 3 Aug; W Ross, 718 July; Suth, ? 4 June. Migration: Shet, 45 birds 11 May - 14 June, max 8 Fetlar and 8 Sunburgh, 10 Sep - 1 Nov, about 68, max 13 Skerries and 13 Whalsay; Fair Isle, 10 May - 9 June, max 3 on one day, 11 Sep - 7 Oct, max 6 on 11 Sep is highest ever; Ork, c8 between 7 May and 4 June, some 12 Sep - 9 Oct, max 3 Copinsay 13 Sep; O Heb, Lewis 11 Oct, S Uist 14 Oct; Caith, Wick 10-14 May, 13-30 Sep; Ross, 1 N Kessock 14 Oct; Inv, singles Dalwhinnie 23 Sep, Fort Augustus 5 Oct; Aber, Murcar 24 May, Rattray 3-5 Sep, Foveran 20 Sep; Kinc/Angus, St Cyrus 12 May, Kirriemuir 21 June; Isle of May, 2 on 27 May; E Loth, Tranent 18 May, Aberlady 24th; Ber, St Abbs 22 May, 5 July, Eyemouth 16-19 Sep; Ayr, Tam’s Craig 31 May; Kirk, Kirkbean 5 June. *Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor 9 in spring and 12 in autumn - another poor year. Shet, Norwick 13-14 Sep, 11 Oct, Skerries 10 Oct; Fair Isle, 4 singles 6-21 Oct; Ork, St Margaret’s Hope 9 May; Ross, Scotsburn 23 Feb; Inv, Tulloch 5 May, Abernethy 25 Jan; Aber, Dinnet 13 Dec; Ber, Hule Moss 12-15 Mar, St Abbs 4-6 Apr, Paxton 5 Apr, Coldingham 4 Oct; Renf, Georgetown 7 Nov; Kirk, Balmaclellan 23 Mar, Castle Douglas 10 Nov, Mossdale 2-23; Nov; Dumf, Caerlaverock 17 Jan. *Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator Two records: Rattray Head, Aber 13-14 May (R. A. Schofield et a/); L Druidebeg, S Uist, O Heb 7-8 June (B. Etheridge er al). ¢Jay Garrulus glandarius Breeding: continued spread, including N where 1 Struy, Inv 14 Jan, 3 Invermoriston Feb, July - Sep, 13 Glen Tanar, Aber 3 May. +Magpie Pica pica Breeding: patchy but apparently spreading in some areas. Counts: 1 Port Askaig, Islay Mar - Apr; 31 Dykebar, Renf 27 Jan. +Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Islay census 4-5 Apr gave 174-180 birds, two- thirds paired and attempting to breed, poor success (BEG, JMW, SFN); 20 Mull of Kintyre 4 July and at least 1 nest used (EJM). Probably 70-80 prs in Scottish population. Also 1 shot acc‘dentally Bracken Bay, Ayr 4 Nov 1980. +Jackdaw Corvus monedula Breeding: decrease Drumnadrochit, Inv - only comment. Counts and passage: Fair Isle 7-26 Mar, max 17 on 26th, few to 1 June, 6 on 19-22 Oct; Inv, 2 Canna 5 Apr; Isle of May 2 on 6 May; Dunb, 4250 Cumbernauld roost 24 Jan. 47 +Rook Corvus frugilegus Breeding: O Heb, Stornoway 180 nests, 12.5% increase; Aber, 95 rookeries in 550 sq km Ythan area contained 18,734 nests; Midl, 11% increase in census. Counts: Fair Isle, scattered records 16 Mar - 8 June, 11 Nov - 31 Dec, max 60n 7 May. +Carrion/ Hooded Crow Corvus corone Shet, max 800 Kergord 20 Dec; Fair Isle, 30 “‘carrions’’ on 7 May; Inv, 240 Garten roost Nov; Aber, N passage noted Peterhead S Apr - 9 May, max SON on 20 Apr; E Loth, max 9 ‘‘Hoodies’’ Aberlady 7 Nov; Ayr, pr ‘‘Hoodies’’ nested Ailsa Craig. +Raven Corvus corax Shet, 8 prs Fetlar reared only 3 young, 150 Mossbank 25 June; Fair Isle, 4 prs none bred successfully, 15 on 11 Apr; O Heb, 200 Stornoway 29 June; O Heb, 2 St Kilda 14 Oct; Inv/Ross, very rare in E side; Arran, 14 prs reared 13 young; Kirk, 21 Craigclaws 31 Jan; Dumf, only 5 successful nests known. +Starling Sturnus vulgaris Fair Isle, -very good Ist broods and some 2nd broods. Migration and counts: Fair Isle, peaks 580 on 30 Mar, 585 on 21 Oct; Aber, 2000 Teuchan 11 Jan; Isle of May, max 530 on 18 Oct. *Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus Two records: Ad Skerries, Shet 25 May (E. Tait); ad Achnamara, Arg 17 Oct (Mrs I. Rainier). tWhite-shouldered Starling Sturnus sinensis One Eyemouth, Ber 25 Nov - 3 Dec (ACC, JDL). +House Sparrow Passer domesticus Fair Isle, max 210 in autumn, 2 x Treesparrow hybrids Jan - Dec; decreasing wide area Kirk. +Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Nos low in all nesting areas and none nesting in outlying areas. Counts and passage: Shet, only 3 singles May and Sep; Fair Isle, few more 14 May - 27 June, max 14-17 on 29 May - 3 June, few later in year; Ork, few May - June; Isle of May, 1-3 on 12-14 May, 4 on 29 Sep; Ber, 216 Eyemouth 13 Jan; Dunb, 150 Cumbernauld 1 Mar; Ayr, 150 Dalry 11 Jan. +Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Breeding: poor season, 77 prs Garten CBC (115 prs in 1980); W Loth, no change Carriber CBC. Counts: Aber, 1700 Glenbuchat 21 Feb; Borders, 2500 Lindean 2 Apr; Dunb, 2250 Cumbernauld 7 Mar. Migration: Fair | Isle, 12 Mar - 31 May, max 90 on 29-30 Mar, 11 Sep - 8 Nov, max 40 which is low; | Isle of May, 100 on 27-29 Sep. | 48 | a ee Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Summer: no suggestion of breeding but Fair Isle 2on 7 July; Caith, 2 1 June; Suth, 2 on 31 May; Inv, ° 27 July, ¢ 28-29 May, Ross,¢ in song S June; Dumf, ¢ 18-23 July. Migration and counts (generally low): Fair Isle, 29 Mar - 28 May, max 150 0n 7 May, 11 Sep - 8 Nov, max 50 on 9-10 Oct; Angus, 500 Edzell 16 Jan; Isle of May, 27 Sep. - 7 Nov, max only 9 on 18 Oct; Midl, 800 Howgate 6 Dec; Borders, 1000 Abbotsford 14 Feb, 1000 Portmore 24 Mar; very few in W and SW. +Greenfinch Chloris chloris Breeding: reported lower Inv and Kirk. Passage and counts: Shet, influxes 27 Mar - 3 Apr, 8-18 May, max 3; Fair Isle, 29 Mar - 20 May, max 7 on 9 Apr (highest spring count), only one record autumn 3 on 16 Oct; Suth, 1 Handa 14 Apr, 2 on 30 May; Skye, 200 Skeabost 30 Dec; E Loth, 1500 Balgone 25 Dec. +Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Breeding: increase Ross, Inv, Moray, Angus, Perth, E Loth, Ber, Mull but decrease Kirk. Migrants: Shet, 5 Fetlar 30 Oct; Fair Isle, one 13 Nov; Ork, 3 singles in May; O Heb, 9 birds in 4 sites Lewis/N Uist Oct - Dec. Counts: Angus, 100+ Easthaven 19 Sep; Ber, 400+ Eyemouth 3 Oct. +Siskin Carduelis spinus Breeding: Inv, best year recorded Garten CBC 39 prs (25 in 1980); good nos W Stir, Ayr and Kirk. Passage: Shet, 3 Apr - 1 June, 11 Sep - Dec, max 60 Burrafirth 27 Sep; Fair Isle, 4 May - 4 June, 13 on 7 May, 11 Sep - 22 Nov, max 52 on 13 Sep; Ork, 40 Kirkwall 15 Sep, 40 Holm 28 Sep; Isle of May, max 45 on 29 Sep. Counts: W Stir, 110+ Carron Valley 22 Feb; Dumf, 120 Caerlaverock 7 Nov. ‘tLinnet Carduelis cannabina Breeding - no comments. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, 3 May - 3 June, max 37 on 7 May, 17 on 13th, few Sep - Oct; Aber, 500 Inverugie 13 Dec; Mid], 500 Upperside 29 Nov. +Twite Carduelis flavirostris Breeding: Fair Isle, good success. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, peaks 225 on 7 May, 300 on 25 Sep; Perth, 250 Glenlyon 11 Nov; Isle of May, 3 0n 17 May, 4 on 18th; Clack, 114 Blackdevonmouth 16 Nov; Dumf, 65 Caerlaverock 1 Dec. +Redpoll Carduelis flammea Breeding: Renf, increase; Kirk, very good year, lots of young Glen Trool. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, more than ever in spring, 20 on 7 May (Lessers); Perth, 150 Methven 17 Feb; Dunb, 200 Summerston 20 Sep. Mealy Redpoll flammea. small nos Fair Isle, Shet spring and autumn and other localities S to Kirk, 12 Gladhouse, Midl17Nov. _ Greenland Redpoll rostrata Singles Fair Isle 17th, 25-27th and 29 Oct. *Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni Singles Tolob, Shet 4 Oct (M.S. Chapman) and Fair Isle 15-17 Oct (P. Coffey, N.J. Riddiford et a/). +Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Breeding: Kirk, low nos nesting; bred Dunb/Arg etc but generally lower most areas. Counts: 2 Fair Isle 20 July; Ork; ¢ Rendall 9 July, juv Harray 15th; Caith, 10-20 Dunnet 22 Aug - 24 Oct; Stir, 40 Carron Valley 11 Apr - 13 July; E Loth, 15 Aberlady 15 July. 4+Scottish Crossbill Loxia scotica Inv, Garten low nos Jan, max 10 in Feb, 20 in Apr, 9 prs in CBC (0 in 1980), all departed Dec; Aber, max 22 Glen Tanar 18 Apr, 31 Dinnet 31 May; Perth, 1 Dalnarcardoch 23 Nov - 6 Dec. Others confused with Crossbill situation. *Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes githogeneus One Sanday, Ork 25-29 May (J. Crossley, A. Cormack, Dr K.F. Woodbridge). ; 49 Scarlet Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus 20 in spring (13 May - 11 July) and 30 in autumn (8 Aug - 4 Oct). Shet, 10 in spring 13 May - 7 June, 2 Virkie 16 May, max 2 Tolob 29 May, 18 in autumn, Ist Skerries 8 Aug, max 3 Boddam 27 Aug, last 15 Sep; Fair Isle, 4 singles between 20 May and 9 June, 6 between 2nd and 22nd Sep; Ork, N Ronaldsay 20-26 May, max 3 on 21st, c6 in autumn 6 Sep - 4 Oct at 3 islands; O Heb, St Kilda 7 June; Suth, 1July;Inv, Rhum 11 July. +Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Breeding: up 150% at Tentsmuir CBC. Migrants: Mid-Walls, Shet 14 Apr. Max counts: Stir, 65 Sherriffmuir 25 Jan. +Hawfinch Coccothrausteo coccothrausteo Breeding: present Perth, pr + juvs Scone June, 7 in Apr, also 3 other sites; Midl, pr nest building Cousland late Mar, present Botanic Gardens: also recorded Fife (1 bird), W Loth (1), E Loth (3). Ber, 4 St Abbs 13 May; Ork, Hoy 26 May. *Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Migration and counts: Shet, small nos 12 Sep - 24 Oct, max 6+ Bressay 22 Sep; Fair Isle, 7 in spring 4 May - 4 June, max 4 on 20th, Ist 7 Sep, scattered to 6 Nov, max 6 on 22 Sep, 15 0n 9 Oct, 13 on 13th; Ork, 2 in Sep; O Heb, 1 North Rona 16-23 Oct; Isle of May, 17 May, 4 singles 28 Sep - 28 Oct; Fife, Morton loch 23 Jan, Fife Ness 7th and 21 Nov; Midl, small winter flock to 29 Mar (max 10 on 29 Jan) and from 1 Nov (max 4); E Loth, 2 Aberlady 23 Jan, one 17 May. +Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Central Highlands, cS prs, good success; West Highlands, at least 2 prs; North Highlands, 1-2 prs. Counts and passage: Shet, influxes 23-25 Sep, 5-6 Oct, max 260 Fetlar 29th; Fair Isle, to 15 June, from 11 Sep, peaks 250 on 28 Sep, 600 on 31 Oct; Ork, 700 N Ronaldsay 28 Oct; O Heb, 450 Balranald 15 Jan; Aber, 500 Corgarff 7 Feb; Midl, max 16 Musselburgh 7 Mar; E Loth, 60 N Berwick 14 Nov; Kirk, 10 Merrick summit 17 Oct. tYellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Inv/ Angus, possibly less; Renf, good increase. Counts and passage: Shet, stragglers Feb - May and Oct; Fair Isle, more than usual spring 26 Mar - 25 May, max 6 on 31 Mar, one 30 Oct - 8 Nov; Ork, one N Ronaldsay' 31 Mar; Aber, 150 Corby Nov; Arg, 80 Sunipol, Mull 27 Nov; Renf, 180 Longhaugh Pt 19-30 Jan. *Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana 20-25 is a better year: Shet, 4 singles between 15-27 May, singles 6 sites 10 Sep - 14 Oct, 2 Unst and 2 Whalsay 13 Sep, 2 Bressay 22 Sep, 2 Skerries 22-30 Sep; Fair Isle, ¢ 11 May, singles 11-14 Sep, 17th, 21st-24th, 30th - 4 Oct; Ork, 1 Sanday 28 May. *Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica Four: Shet, ¢ Eshaness 10 May (RG) §; Fair Isle, 921 May (P. Alker, N.J. Riddiford et a/), one 10-11 Oct (J.M. Dickson et al); O Heb, SSt Kilda 26-27 May (P.D. Anderson, A.M. Handley, J. Strowger et al). *Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla Nine: Shet, Fetlar 6 May (RE-HS)§, Whalsay 4 Oct (Dr B. Marshall), Skerries 6 Oct (D.M. Pullan, E. Tait); Fair Isle.o singing 3 May, one 4-5 Oct, 2 on 8th, 3 on 9th, 2 on 10th, 3 on 11th, 1 to 16th (at least 5) (N.J. Riddiford et al); Dumf, 1 Caerlaverock 25 Feb (D.L. Clugston). *Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola Four: Shet, Skerries 13-19 (D.M. Pullan, E. Tait et al); Fair Isle, 2-3 Sep, 7-8 Sep, 22-25 Sep (N.J. Riddford et al). +Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Breeding: fewer Midl; Renf, 27 prs Lochwinnoch (31 prs in 1980); fewer Kirk. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, 19 Mar - mainly 4-27 May, max 52 on 18 May, low nos 8 Sep - 18 Oct, max 15 on 5 Oct; Isle of May, max 5 on 11-19 May and 29 Sep. 50 *Pallas’s Reed Bunting Emberiza pallasiOne, Ist Y_, Fair Isle 17-18 Sep, probably N race polaris (A. Broome, N.J. Riddiford ez a/); 2nd British. +Red-headed Bunting Emberiza bruniceps 2 Rhum, Iny 1 July (J. Love). tCorn Bunting Miliaria calandra Breeding: Shet, 6 records, only 3 singing; Ork, few; Caith, only 1 record, song Noss 13-16 May; Ross, 100 Fearn 13-15 Feb; Perth, none; E Loth, further decreases; Renf, 37 Inchinnan 7 Dec; Kirk, further decreases; Dumf, max 38 Caerlaverock 19 Jan. {Painted Bunting Passerina cyanea One Noss, Shet 8 June (DB). 51 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS Mandarin Duck Pair North Ronaldsay, Ork 8 May 1979. Green-winged Teal L Gorm, Islay, Arg 7-9 May 1979 (A.F.G. Walker). Baikal Teal Anas formosa Past records: 9 shot L Spynie, Moray 5 Feb 1958 (Maj. Brander-Dunbar) and do Caerlaverock, Dumf 19 Feb-17 Apr 1973 have been re- assessed and are now accepted as wild vagrants. Ring-necked Duck First date for Woodend Lochc'in 1980 was 18 Jan (P.R. Gordon). Scoter AS Findhorn, Moray 29 Dec 1979 accepted as showing characters of american and NE siberian race americana. Goldeneye SBR 1980, page 23, line 13 should read ‘‘325 Woodhall’ not ‘'325 Clyde’’. Smew SBR 1980 add 2 redheads L Ken, Kirk 27 Dec. Greater Sand Plover SBR 1979, page 25, line 2 should read ‘‘9-16 June’’ not ‘‘9-14 June”’. Buff-breasted Sandpiper I nr Stornoway, O Heb 14-18 Sep 1980 (Dr N.E. Buxton). Ruff SBR 1980, page 31, line 13 should read ‘‘45 Linwood 3 Sep’’ not *‘12 Aug’’. Wryneck | Rait, Perth 5 May 1980. White’s Thrush Zoothera dauma One Libberton, Lan 2 Jan 1979 (Sir R. Erskine- Hill). Sedge Warbler SBR 1980, page 45, line 2 should read ‘'130 singing Lochwinnoch’’. Icterine Warbler SBR 1980, page 46, line 4 should read ‘‘Suth’’ not ‘‘Caith’’. Firecrest Clochan, Banff 2 Nov 1980 (MJHC). SBR 1980, page 48, line 2-3 should read ‘‘Suth, Melvich 27 Oct’’ not ‘‘Caith, Melvich 27 Jan’’. Evening Grosbeak Hesperiphona vespertina Adult Q Nethybridge, Inv 10-25 March 1980 (H. Marshall). 52 SCOTTISH RINGING REPORT 1981 The installation of computer equipment at the British Trust for Ornithology has made the availability of all ringing recoveries with a "Scottish connection" a realistic possibility. At the request of the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club a print out of all the recoveries of birds ringed and/or recovered in Scotland will be made available each year. For 1981 about 2700 recoveries are involved and probably represent a reasonably typical year. Not surprisingly sea-birds account for a high proportion of the recoveries with many being the result of long term studies by specialist groups including some University Zoology Departments. Unfortunately the Tecoveries of foreign ringed birds in Scotland were not available in time for this report. The systematic list gives for each species , after the English and scientific names, the number of recoveries of British ringed birds reported in 1981. This is followed by a list of some of the more noteworthy recoveries and in some cases a short summary. Arrangement of entries : ringing details are given first followed by recovery data all on one line. Key to symbols and terms used. Age when ringed : this is given according to the EURING code and the figures do not represent years. Years refer to calendar years. 1 pullus (= nestling or chick) 2 fully grown, year of hatching quite unknown 3 hatched during year of ringing 4 hatched 1 or more years before year of ringing 5 hatched 1 year before year of ringing 6 hatched 2 or more years before year of ringing 7 hatched 2 years before year of ringing 8 hatched 3 or more years before year of ringing Sex :m-=male , f = female Manner of recovery: v caught or trapped and released with ring vv ring or identifiable colour markings read in field x found dead xL found long dead xF found freshly dead or dying () caught and not released or released without ring /?/ manner of recovery unknown. + shot or killed by man Oate of recovery : Where this is unknown, the date of the reporting letter is given in brackets. Abbreviations for the Scottish Regions are as follows :- Shetland SH, Crkney OR, Highland HR, Grampian GR, Tayside TR, Fife FR, Central CR, Lothian LR, Borders 8R, Strathclyde SC, Oumfries and Galloway OR and Western Isles WI. At the end of each recovery the distance of movement, in km, and the direction, as a three figure bearing are given. Red=throated Diver Gavia stellata 9 1108951 1 24.7.74 Orkney x 6.1.81 off St Andrews, FR 297km 178 1115179 1 4.8.79 North Mainland, SH x 21.1.81 off Seaford, Sussex 1096km 175 1130198 4 28.7.79 Yell, SH x 4.3.81 Moray Firth, 2m N of Nairn, HR 363km 206 1094934 1. 12.7.80 Orkney x 24.2.81 Banff, GR 151km 169 Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis 44 Fv67007 1 29.7.79 near Marwick, Orkney x 18.11.80 at sea of f NEWFOUNDLAND 3484km 242 Ctner recoveries included Norway (2), Sweden (1), Denmark (4), West Germany (2), Netherlands (3), Belgium (1), England (2) and Wales (1). Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus 4 FROS653 4 11.7.80 Bardsey Island, Wales xF 4.6.81 Port Ellen, Islay, SC 331km 344 Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus 231 2213099 4 10.8.78 Hirta, St Kilda, WI x 22.1 81 near Cefane, SOUTH AFRICA 10654km 161 NB36261 4 3.8.77 St Kilda, WI v 1.2.81 off Cape Padrone, S AFRICA 10714km 162 2263803 4 14.8.81 Strathy Point, HR (at 2330) v 15.68.81 Noss Head, Wick, HR (at 0230) S8km 105 Most of the recoveries were birds caught by other ringers. 79 had been ringed in 1981, 75 in 1980, 38 in 1979, 11 in 1978, 13 in 1977, 3 in 1976 and 6 in years before that. Leach's Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa 2 NB30909 4 16.7.81 Foula, SH v 9.8.81 Dun, St Kilda, WI 453km 235 Gannet Sula bassana 53 1106256 1 29.86.74 Ailsa Craig, SC x 22.10.80 Pt of Almadies,Dakar,SENEGAL 4628km 194 Other recoveries included birds to West Germany (3), Netherlands (3), France (8), Belgium (1), Denmark (1), North Sea (1), Portugal (3), Spain (1), Italy (1), Eire (2), England (13). 53 Gadwall Anas strepera 1 FV60441 3 31.12.78 Slimbridge, Gloucestershire v 9.6.81 St Serf's Is, Loch Leven, TR .498km 353 Pochard Anas acuta 2 6344322 Sm 6.4.81 Abberton, Essex + 2.10.81 Bunchrew, Beauly Firth, HR 711km 332 6344405 4m 1.6.81 Abberton, Essex t 5.12.81 Loch Leven, TR 559km 331 Tufted Duck Aythia fuligula 4 5878100 3m ~ 8.9.70 Loch Leven, TR + 7.11.81 Lough Ennel, Westneath, EIRE 399km 220 FVS7673 4 9.1.79 Rostherne Mere, Cheshire v 9.6.81 St Serf's Is, Loch Leven, TR 321km 349 FR21320 Sm 22.5.81 Abberton, Essex + 21.10.81 Loch Leven, TR S60km 330 Eider Somateria mollissima 45 HW16658 1 17.7.68 Newburgh, GR xF 15.2.81 Tantallon Castle, LR 146km 196 HW28668 1m 6.7.71 Newburgh, GR v 14,5,81 Farne Islands, Northumberland 190km 173 HW40154 1m 31.7.74 Newburgh, GR x 28,5,81 Aberlady Bay, LR 153km 200 HW78000 1f 1.8.81 Newburgh, GR xF 12.11.81 Portmahomack, HR 123km 297 Other movements over 100km from Newburgh were 10 to Fife and 5 to Tayside. Goosander Mergus merganser 3 HW73760 1 29.6.80 Hartburn, Northumberland x 31.10.81 nr R Kinnel, Lochmaben, OR 9Bkm 268 HwW87009 1 3.7.81 Mitford, Northumberland +(11.10.81) 2m SW of Bridge of Cally, TR 180km 323 HwW87136 1 18.7.81 nr Bellingham, N'umberland xl 7.10.81 Morningside, Newmains, SC 122km 304 «Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus 10 FS77985 1f 21.6.74 Evie, OR x 2.2.81 R Thurso, SW of L More, HR 87km 200 FSB4738 1f 24.6.75 near Dounby, OR x 22.3.81 near Gartocharn, SC 346km 193 Fv82505 1f 4.7.80 Evie, OR x 15.8.81 near Lossiemouth, GR 152km 184 Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 30 €B01576 1f 1.7.75 Lockerbie, OR x 19.8.81 Avon Valley, Larkhall, SC 80km 331 EH20752 1f 9.7.79 Langholm, OR + 6.11.81 Craufurdland, Kilmarnock, SC 106km 300 0A31898 1 1.7.80 St Ann's, Lockerbie, DR x 20.3.81 near Cockermouth, Cumbria 63km 174 EH69803 6f 2.6.80 Ae Forest, OR + 17.2.81 near Southport, Merseyside 178km 168 EH84829 1f 13.7.81 Langholm, OR xF 22.10.81 Brighouse Bay, Borgue, OR B2km 240 Buzzard Buteo buteo 4 6331641 1 19.6.81 Corrimony, Glenurquhart, HR x (13.9.81) Netherly, Stonehaven, GR 149km 103 Osprey Pandion haliaetus 1 1085662 1 8.7.81 North Scotland xF 28.9.81 Ste Trephine, FRANCE 971km 179 Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 16 £H19482 1m = 19.6.78 High Glenmuir, Cumnock, SC xF 4.5.81 Hooge, NETHERLANDS 720km 126 EH69520 1 18.6.79 Eskdalemuir, OR x 25,.7.81 Westoning, Bedfordshire 412km 154 €J16159 1 3.7.81 Dounby, Mainland, OR + 4.10.81 Bogdale, Bathgate, LR 352km 184 EF90636 6f 25.5.77 Eskdalemuir, DOR x 23.11.81 Kempston, Bedfordshire 398km 153 £H39116 1 31.5.81 Scaur Glen, Thornhill, OR x 12.12.81 near St Albans, Hertfordshire 449km 148 Merlin Falco columbarius 7 EH25858 1f 3.7.77 North Mainland, SH v 14.6.81 Keelylang, near Finstown, OR 180km 213 EH46723 1 30.6.78 North Mainland, SH xL(16.10.81) Boultham Woods, Lincoln 773km 177 EH80545 1f 9.7.80 Glenbervie, GR + 15.3.81 Withern, Louth, Lincolnshire 438km 159 EH76728 1f 10.7.81 Fetlar, SH v 19.11.81 Fair Isle 124km 200 There were also two other 1981 chicks from the Shetland Mailnland controlled on Fair Isle. Peregrine Falco peregrinus 12 CK71635 1f 7.7.78 Moffat, OR () 4.5.81 near Connachan, Crieff, TR 122km 350 GJ08972 1m 4.6.80 Moffat, OR x 3.12.80 Bennekerry, Carlow, EIRE 357km 219 GK71635 was illegally pole-trapped and was kept in captivity after having a leg amputated. Corncrake Crex crex 1 DA28726 1 28.7.80 Isle of Canna, HR v 30.6.81 Port Charlotte, Islay, SC 145km 175 Coot Fulica atra 2 GKO1214 3. 18.8.80 Deeping St James, Lincs. + 31.1.81 Loch Spynie, Elgin, GR S90km 341 54 Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 76 5084749 1 2.7.80 Boray Holm, Gairsay, OR + 25.2.81 Ringwood, Hampshire 918km 175 5108008 | 27.6.81 Clett Stack, Mainland, SH + 18.12.81 Kennick Reservoir, Devon 1065km 188 shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis 217 1155006 8 13.8.80 Isle of May, FR x 7.1.81 Burnham Deepdale, Norfolk 414km 150 1127452 1 17.7.78 Isle of May, FR x 2.2.81 River Ouse, Bedfordshire 460km 163 m9630 «1 11.7.81 Foula, SH + 14.10.81 near Finoy, Rogaland, NORWAY 457km 104 1069977 | 7.7.74 St Margarets Is, Tenby,Wales x 16.12.80 Kelton, Nith Estuary, OR 383km 011 1159376 1 21.6.81 Isle of May, FR vv 26.12.81 I jmuiden, Netherlands 619km 132 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 42 1094737 1 24.5.79 near Montrose, TR xF (22.10.81) Appin, SC 175km 265 1094793 1 28.5.79 near Dunning, TR x 23.5.81 Lochindaal, Islay, SC 180km 251 1096172 1 25.4.80 St Andrews, FR xL 20.3.81 Blankenberge, BELGIUM 679km 145 1191118 1 20.5.81 Bridge of Earn, Perth, TR x 12.10.81 Romo, N Frisian Is, DENMARK 759km 101 1191305 1 18.5.81 St Andrews, FR x 20.11.81 Castleton, North Yorkshire 242km 151 1191479 1 13.7.81 near Leuchars, FR v 25.9.81 Gweedore, Donegal, EIRE 396km 2466 Mute Swan Cygnus olor 75 741558 Sf 23.7.80 West Loch Ollay, S Uist, WI x 8.11.81 St Ninian's Ayre, Mainland, SH 462km 050 247093 6m 3.8.80 Bridge of Dun, Montrose, TR x(13.10.81) Thurnham, Lancashire 304km 183 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus 2 243045 Sm 17.1.80 Caerlaverock, OR x 27.12.81 Possil Loch, Glasgow, SC 116km 333 Canada Goose Branta canadensis 22 5086436 4m 2.7.78 Beauly Firth, HR + 3.6.79 near Aksarka, USSR 3857km O75 5086459 4 2.7.78 Beauly Firth, HR Vv 5.7.81 Holkham Park, Wells , Norfolk S99km 147 There were also 8 to Yorkshire, 2 to Derbyshire and 1 to Staffordshire. Several Beauly ringed birds were shet in Perthshire. Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 7 1061566 6F 11.1.78 Caerlaverock, OR x 11.10.81 Waterville, Kerry, EIRE 566km 232 1997283 6f 22.1.80 Caerlaverock, OR x 5.10.81 Lochslin, Loch Eye, HR 316km 354 1097335 6f 22.1.80 Caerlaverock, OR x(26.10.81) Mugia, Coruna, SPAIN 1384km 198 Shelduck Tadorma tadorna 15 GP44053 6m 20.6.71 Newburgh, GR xF 17.10.81 Friedrichskoog, WEST GERMANY 776km 118 GP44837 4m 13.3.72 Aberlady, LR x 24.11.81 Marienkoog, WEST GERMANY 743km 101 GP44848 6F 13.3.72 Aberlady Bay, LR xF 1.11.81 Insel Neuwerk, WEST GERMANY 760km 108 GK11353 6m 27.1.77 Aberlady Bay, LR x 3.5.81 Bjers, Norrlanda, SWEDEN 1322km 083 GP44433 6f 29.3.77 Newburgh, GR x (17.3.81) near Minsen, WEST GERMANY 744km 123 GK49037 6f 15.2.78 Aberlady Bay, LR xL 9.7.81 Boschplaat, NETHERLANDS 609km 118 CK91062 1 21.7.80 Tynningham Bay, Ounbar, LR x 7.4.81 Vlieland, NETHERLANDS 527km 122 Wigeon Anas penelope 11 FS76318 6f 19.1.75 Blithfield Reservoir, Staffs + (1.12.81) Elphin, HR 613km 341 FS25024 3m 5.12.77 Aberlady Bay, LR + 20.8.81 Vest Stadil Fjord, DENMARK 686km 089 FS82795 Sf 23.1.78 Newburgh, GR + 11.10.81 Velling Bugt, DENMARK 645km 103 FS82808 4f 23.1.78 Newburgh, GR + 20.5.81 Volonga, Nenets, U.S.S.R 2775km 067 Teal Anas crecca 17 €HO91S5 2m 18.10.79 Strangford Lough, N Ireland + 12.10.81 Loch Migdale, HR 385km 012 EH7S024 3m 1.9.79 Hale, Cheshire v 23.10.81 Morton Lochs, FR 343km 359 €C97733 4m 19.9.81 Loch Leven, IR + 18.12.81 near Longford Town, N Ireland 392km 226 €J37715 4f 17.3.80 Lough Leane, Kerry, EIRE + 16.12.81 Loch Fad, Bute, SC 551km 040 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 20 GK56765 4m 28.11.78 Oakham, Leicestershire + 30.1.81 Biel, Dunbar, LR 386km 342 GP19843 3m 26.11.69 Slimbridge, Gloucestershire + (10.6.81) Auchenblae, GR S74km 360 GM39239 6m 12.1.74 Caerlaverock, OR + 21.8.80 Vaernengene, DENMARK 748km O82 GK86645 4f 28.11.80 North Slob, Wexford, EIRE + 29.11.81 Duns, BR 464km 035 55 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralequs 110 Fv09968 7 23.9.79 Fort George, Inverness, HR FV87881 8 15.3.80 East Shore, Eden Estuary, FR FV86437 1 8.6.79 Hoxa, South Ronaldsay, OR Fv88320 1 5.7.81 Vollister, Yell, SH FV69233 1 5.7.81 Braemar, GR FR24006 1 31.5.81 Wadbister, SH 14.7.61 12.6.81 6.9.81 6.9.81 4.12.81 4.10.81 Leynar, FALROLS 529k Mykines, FALROES b93km Pleubian, FRANCL 1109km Adrigole, Cork, LIKE 112b6kin North Slob, lilexford, FIRE Sb2kmn Agon, Manche, FRANCE 1234kin a2 $37 180 208 201 161 There were 39 others over 300km mainly to or from wintering areas in south west England or Wales. Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 3 Bv57057 1 10.8.76 Beadnell, Northumberland BV41387 6m 13.5.79 Waterfoot, Annan, OR Dotterel Charadrius morinellus 1 CE23830 1 19.6.79 The Grampians, TR Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 23 DAG1494 1 19.6.73 Frodsham, Cheshire OR15978 1 =26.5.75 Kirkmichael, TR OR35181 1 = 21.5.77 Dunblane, CR OR38770 1 11.6.78 Kinbrace, Kildonan, HR DH13377 1 3.6.81 Evie, Mainland, OR Knot Calidris canutus 10 CE22862 4 21.10.78 Brora, HR XS22215 6 4.4.80 Findhorn Bay, GR X543042 4 3.3.81 Kirkcaldy, FR x + Q + +k + & x 17.4,81 3.8.81 28.35.81 28.6.81 16.10.81 23.4.81 16.10.80 20.12.81 10.11.81 18.1.81 4.4.81 There were also 4 August ringed birds from the Wash at Kirkcaldy on 18.1.81 (2 1976, 2 1978). Sanderling Calidris alba 1 BB37871 4 25.7.68 Hoylake, Merseyside Dunlin Calidris alpina 19 NB48531 3 = 28.8.80 Montrose Basin, TR NS10678 6 6.3.81 Loch Fleet, HR NB16917 3m 5.8.78 Rock, Wadebridge, Cornwall NSO7299 6 28.1.80 New Mills, FR NS10666 5 1.3.81 Dornoch, HR Bx78055 3. 12.9.81 Findhorn Bay, Forres, GR Ruff Philomachus pugnax 1 CE23885 3f 1.10.78 Montrose Basin, TR Jack Snipe Lynocryptes minimus 1 NVO3821 3 29.11.80 Dornoch, HR Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 1 £H40815 2 31.10.77 Fair Isle Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus 1 EH86568 1 14.7.81 Whalsay, SH Curlew Numenius arquata 11 Fs82198 4 15,.9.74 Wig, Bangor, Wales Redshank Tringa totanus 43 OR70923 4 13.8.79 Saltburn, Invergordon, HR ORSS796 6 31.3.7 Farlington Marsh, Hampshire ORS6077 1 16.6.80 wWesterdale, HR ORS7161 1 = 26.5.81 West Bonharry, Glen Esk, TR v 0A38091 1 + 17,5.81 Hill of Forss, Thurso, HR + x (20.8.81) ese ce < x ¢ 24.1.81 19.3.81 7.6.81 23.7.81 20.7.81 20.9.81 20.5.81 23.1.81 3.1.81 23.10.81 18.2.81 24.6.81 12.5.81 30.10.81 1.10.81 9.11.81 near Gullane, LR 93km Baie du Mont St Michel, FRANCE 714km near £1 Jadida, MOROCCO 2621km Loch Striven, SC 327km nr Newtownards, Down, N Ire. 272km Kragero, Telemark, NORWAY BS2km Mendexa, Vizcaya, SPAIN 1668km Le Porge, Gironde, FRANCE 1585km Coatham Sands, Cleveland 419km Kirkcaldy, FR 475km Heacham, Wash, Norfolk 419km Addiewell, LR 275km Axe Estuary, Avon 601km Helgoland, WEST GERMANY 848km Loch Bee, South Uist, WI 774km Ottenby, Gland, SWEDEN 1238km Sappi, Luvia, FINLAND 1477?km Figueira da Foz, PORTUGAL 1981km Seyakha, Yamal-Nenets, USSR 3946km 3 miles NW of Sligo, EIRE 482km Oromore, Down, N Ireland 631km Edobo, Half Assini, GHANA 6148km Skinflats, Grangemouth, CR 314km Raudasandur, ICELAND 1377km Acremore Loch, Ashkirk, BR 530km Whitley Bay, Tyne & Wear 394km Spurn Point, Humberside 403km Pt de L'Aiguillon, FRANCE 1578km There were 4 other birds recovered in Iceland. DR70923 was the earliest autumn ringing cate. 56 307 170 187 237 235 210 063 176 175 156 171 146 354 183 119 348 089 074 191 068 215 206 182 004 310 347 162 154 173 Common Sandiper Actitis hypoleucos 3 BV66205 4 7.7.77 Tomintoul, GR 8V06720 3 27.4.80 Stroud, Gloucestershire BVSS767 4 3.5.81 Glen Lussa, Kintyre, SC Turnstone Arenaria interpres 2 CC65659 4 8.5.71 Newbiggin, Cumbria Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus 14 EH86565 1 12.7.81 Whalsay, SH Great Skua Stercorarius skua 75 HW56758 1 15.7.76 Foula, SH HW58336 1 = 21.6.76 Hoy, Orkney HwW79436 1 =©15.7.79 Foula, SH Hw79573 1 +15.7.79 Foula, SH Other recoveries included birds in Sweden (1), Denmark (1), West Germany (2), Netherlands (10), France (10), Spain (4) and Portugal (2) Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus 14 EH86105 1 21.6.80 Tingwall, SH Common Gull Larus canus 21 EH67970 1 +13.7.81 Fair Isle €H71296 1 5.7.81 Vollister, Yell, SH Lesser Black-back Larus fuscus 71 GJ40100 1 28.6.80 Flanders Moss, Kippen, CR GK74145 1 =15.7.80 Linga, SH GK40791 1 16.7.76 Dales Voe, SH GJ48034 8 4.8.81 Stirling, CR There were also a further 5 birds to Morocco, Herring Gull Larus argentatus 285 GJ30500 1 4.7.80 Kinloss, Forres, HR GK68810 1 = 20.6.79 Lerwick, SH GP37775 8 21.11.71 Fair Isle Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 27 Hw08182 8 15.11.69 Fair Isle HwO8209 8 15.11.69 Fair Isle HW30273 1 = 26.6.71 Hoy, OR GKO7563 8 16.12.74 Isle of May, FR HwW70066 8 16.11.78 Seaton Carew, Cleveland Kittiwake Risa tridactyla 17 EF14607 1 12.7.70 Bullers of Buchan, GR £B43917 1 £B81636 1 19.7.76 Isle of May, FR EF91465 1 17.6.76 Dunbar Harbour, LR EH46746 1 2.7.78 East Yell, SH £H93521 1 20.7.80 Sule Skerry, OR EH95014 1 28.6.80 Foula, SH EHS0007 1 8.7.81 Fair Isle Sandwich Tern Sterna sandviciensis 17 XS08629 1 14.6.75 Sands of Forvie, GR XS15191 1. 17.6.78 Sands of Forvie, GR DA45473 1 = 26.6.81 Stroma, Pentland Firth, HR Common Tern Sterna hirundo 3 CD71259 1 8.7.69 near Inver, Tain, HR CE23667 6 11.39.76 Johnshaven, GR + + x x 12.6.74 Whinnyfold, Cruden Bay, GR + + +t + La Teste, Gironde, FRANCE 1418km Glen Lussa, Kintyre, SC 468km Sidi Fini, MOROCCO 2921km near Aberlady Bay, LR 212km Dunkerque, Nord, FRANCE 1053km Ouxbury, Plymouth, Mass, USA 5116km near Medenine, TUNISIA 3009km Tinuteqissap Nuna, GREENLAND 2624km Sardlog, GREENLAND 2417km Madeley Heath, Hereford 862km Roe Estuary, Northern Ireland 589km Kilwinning, SC S86km near Oran, ALGERIA 2284km Sidi Toual, Agadir, MOROCCO 3439km Iwik, MAURETANIA 4640km Fuerteventura, CANARY ISLANDS 3179km to France, 3 to Portugal and 2 to Spain. Orontenmeer, NETHERLANDS 826km Halsa in Helgeland, NORWAY 1035km Eggum, Lofotens, NORWAY 1224km Sletnes Lh, Finnmark, NORWAY 1868km Kharlov Island, USSR 2131km Rye Harbour, Sussex 917km Stormya, Aure, NORWAY 1002km Polin, Kinlochbervie, HR 486km Skagen, Jylland, DENMARK 742km Tunlauer , WST GERMANY 738km near Eider Estuary, W GERMANY 7S56km Goulien, Pte du Raz, FRANCE 895km Quarsut, GREENLAND 2585km Nanortalik, GREENLAND 2299km Cape Bauld, NEWFOUNDLAND 3437km Kungmiut, GREENLAND 1929km near Freetown, SIERRA LEONE 5503km Rodeira, SPAIN 1741km Accra, GHANA 5908km Querrieu, Somme, FRANCE 971km Lyngstad, Nord-Nore, NORWAY 872km 174 332 187 004 169 247 160 230 271 183 213 201 173 191 195 194 134 045 037 047 081 164 038 331 087 117 107 189 296 273 254 291 190 196 178 155 038 57 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 12 CE39955 1 3.7.80 Foula, SH CE20449 3.7.81 Whalsay, SH X$27571 4.7.81 Papa Stour, SH 1 1 XS31068 1 28.6.81 North Ronaldsay, OR XS34582 1 29.6.81 Quandale, Rousay, OR XS50104 1 28.6.81 Whalsay, SH Little Tern Sterna albifrons 2 BV46253 8 17.6.75 St Cyrus, GR BV46312 1 15.6.76 St Cyrus, GR Guillemot Uria aalge 165 CKSS662 1 5.7.77 Canna, HR GK95513 1 5.7.79 Canna, HR GJ51601 1 4.7.81 Canna, HR GJO7682 1 2.7.79 Great Saltee, Wexford, EIRE GJ47290 1 25.6.81 Great Saltee, Wexford, EIRE GJ30800 1 2.7.80 near Aberdaron, WALES GK95224 1 26.6.80 Halcro Head, S Ronaldsay, OR + 20.10.80 + 28.9.81 x 27.12.81 x 16.10.81 v 27.8.8 xF 18.10.81 xF 27.4.81 vo 19.7,81 x(22.10.81) x 26.12.81 x 15.12.81 x (21.7.81) x 13.12.81 x 27.1.81 x 11.1.81 Kikombo, ANGOLA 8068km 1 Port Bouet, IVORY COAST 6131km 1 Sordwana Bay, NATAL 10274km 1 off Qua Ibo, NIGERIA 6156km 1 Monrovia, LIBERIA SS08km 1 nr Port Elizabeth, S AFRICA 10760km 1 70 82 62 72 86 66 near Spalding, Lincolnshire 472km 161 Millom, Cumbria 290km 191 Santona, SPAIN 1527km 172 Cap Higuer,SPAIN 1549km 168 Cadiz, SPAIN 2279km 179 Keils, Sound of Jura, SC 432km 008 Dornoch, HR 660km 015 near Ounure, SC 291km 360 Near St Sampsons, CHANEL IS 1030km 1 79 An oiling incident in the Skagerack in January resulted in more foreign recoveries than usual. Fair Isle and Canna generated the largest numbers and the table below illustrates the distribution of recoveries from a northern colony and a western one. Norway Sweden Denmark Germany Netherlands Belgium France N England S England Ireland Fair Isle 15 13 2 - Canna 1 1 1 3 Rest of Scotland 8 4 2 1 Razorbil] Alca torda 40 24102 4 26.6.75 Shiant Islands, WI 37829 1 2.7.79 Shiant Islands, WI M36S04 1 22,6.80 Fair Isle M36622 1 30.6.80 Fair Isle M36795 1 19,6.81 Fair Isle M43211 1 21.6.81 Sanda, Kintyre, SC 6 s /2/(2.12.81) 30.1.81 12.1.81 16.12.81 21.11.81 20.12.81 x x K x x These were the longest distance recoveries but there were Sweden (1), Germany (4), Netherlands (4) and France (4). Puffin Fratercula arctica 41 €B57250 4 19.7.75 Sule Skerry, OR EHO3936 1 5.8.76 St Kilda, WI £B98146 1 «2.7.78 Isle of May, FR £B98578 8 10.7.78 Isle of May, FR EJ06625 1 31.7.79 St Kilda, WI There were also 3 birds from Sule Skerry (OR) Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2 £H30199 4 27.6.79 North Ronaldsay, OR £J40527 4 15.5.80 North Ronaldsay, OR Barn Owl Tyto alba 14 GK69579 1 4.8.80 Dalry, OR GK69738 1 16.6.81 Moffat, OR Short-eared Owl Asio flameus 2 GK21702 1 17.5.81 near Banff, GR GK78044 1 10.5.81 Cabrach, GR Sand Martin Riparia riparia 10 A841232 3m = 25.8.80 High Halstow, Kent A193745 3m 22.7.79 Llangorse Lake, Wales There were another 7 recoveries over 300km. Swallow Hirundo rustica 13 AB45851 3 23.8.80 Seaside Dyke, Errol, TR A215659 1 30.6.79 Millhaugh, Dunning, TR 58 x 25,1.81 x 1.2.81 xL 9.7.80 xL 29.3.81 xF 13.8.8 fleygged in xF 23.9.81 v 28.3.81 x (21.5.81) xf 29.11.81 x (16.11.81) () 8.10.81 v 17.5,81 v 26.7.81 v 20.9.81 + 17.4,81 4 - 4 - 5 3 3 13 7 4 5 ae} near Ancora, PORTUGAL 1795km 1 Figueira da Foz, PORTUGAL 1980km 1 Chipiona, Cadiz, PORTUGAL 2557km 1 near Albufeira, PORTUGAL 2391km 1 Donana Beach, Almonte, SPAIN 2528km 1 near Cartagena, SPAIN 1996km 1 also foreign recoveries to Norway (2), 86 85 88 93 88 69 St Jean de Luz, FRANCE 1753km 174 M'Diq, MOROCCO 2471km 174 Kvenvaer, Hitra, NORWAY 1017km 037 Bobv jerg Fyr, DENMARK 659km 087 Storhofdi, ICELAND 889km 314 the Faeroes. Margate, Kent 922km 165 Evie, OR Sikm 242 Whithorn/Garlieston, OR 42km 201 Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside 216km 2 Auchlin, Orongan, SC 273km Loch of Skail, Mainland, OR 192km Connel, Argyll, SC 678km Tertowie, Aberdeen, GR S87km Sutton Chetney, Leicestershire 438km €1-Bayadh, Saida, ALGERIA 2540km 166 205 354 325 006 165 172 House Martin Dechlion urbica 2 A253667 3 25.8.80 Ince, Chester, Cheshire v 24.5.81 B109017 4 17.5.81 Kilchrist Castle, Kintyre vu 22.5.81 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 6 KK93287 1 12.56.81 Nigg Bay, Aberdeen, GR v (20.4.81) A026234 2 23.9.80 Isle of May, FR v 3.2.81 AS96073 2 14.9.80 Spurn Point, Humberside x 15.7.81 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba 23 A398247 3 27.7.81 Garthdee, Aberdeen, GR x 11.11.81 B159073 Sm 17.3.81 Llanelli, Dyfed, Wales v 24.7.81 These were the two furthest distance recoveries but there Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 3 KX93820 1m 14.5.78 Durris, Aberdeen, GR v 15.1.81 A642810 1 27.5.80 Pinners Brig, Edzell, TR xF 13.2.81 Robin Erithacus rubecula 19 A861802 3 19.8.80 Sanda Island, Kintyre, SC x 10.1.81 A282907 3 30.39.80 Wideford Burn, Kirkwall, OR xF 29.3.81 A629157 4 30.3.80 North Ronaldsay, OR x 25.11.81 KJ14536 3 24.9.78 Port Erin, Isle of Man x 1.9.81 Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 4 NA75392 3 6.8.78 Fair Isle x 8.3.81 NC23385 1 21.6.80 Out Skerries, SH /2?/ 9.8.81 A810361 4f 4.4.81 North Ronaldsay, OR xF 15.10.81 NH17726 4m 31.8.81 Fair Isle /2/ (28.9.81) Blackbird Turdus merula 109 XC74911 6m 9.1.79 Ounley, Hereford x 25.1.81 23 recoveries were over 300km but the furthest movement of as nestlings was 2km. Foreign recoveries included 7 to Norway and 2 to Germany. Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 16 KH77541 5 16.1.80 Heswall, Wirral, Merseyside xf (2.3.81) NX79371 3 10.10.80 The Calf, Isle of Man xF 11.3.81 XJ62144 3 5.11.80 Longhouse, Kirkwall, OR x 14.4,81 NXS5651 2 7.10.81 Fair Isle + 15.11.81 Redwing Turdus iliacus 8 BV97574 3 11.10.79 North Ronaldsay, OR x 6.2.81 X€64382 3. 19.10.79 Drumnadrochit, HR x 4.2.81 CE38145 3. 24.10.76 North Ronaldsay, OR x 18.8.78 Bv97560 3 11.10.79 North Ronaldsay, OR + 13.10.81 NX37587 4 10.4.78 Fair Isle x 11.5.79 NxX37952 4 15.10.79 Fair Isle + 29.1,81 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 3 XE14529 1 14.5.78 Ballater, ‘GR xF 26.4.81 Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 11 A479365 3 1.9.79 Titchfield Haven, Hampshire x 21.5.81 8057219 1 6.7.81 Cousland, LR v 18.8,81 A845751 3 30.7.81 Balhepburn, Rhynd, TR x 17.8.81 AS45669 4 5.8.81 Newshot,Inchinnan, SC v 14.8.81 There were 5 other recoveries over 300km. Kilchrist Castle, Kintyre, SC 298km 322 Carnwath, SC 132km 075 La Linea, Cadiz, SPAIN 2342km 186 Larache, MOROCCO 2347km 187 near Largs, SC 403km 308 Near Cherbourg, FRANCE 830km 178 Wick, HR 753km 005 were 13 others over 300km. Arrowe Park, Merseyside 411km 186 Eydon, Northants, 526km 169 Bashall Eaves, Lancashire 253km 128 Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria 539km 182 Loudun, Vienne, FRANCE 1384km 173 Aberfeldy, TR 287km 011 near Safi, MOROCCO 3076km 191 Kenadsa, Bechar, ALGERIA 3215km 182 near Marrakech, MOROCCO 3089km 188 Qued Zen, MOROCCO 2984km 187 Garve, HR 606km 346 any of the 7 recoveries of birds ringed » 3 to Sweden, 3 to Denmark, 2 to Holland Auchincruive, near Ayr, SC 258km 339 3 miles N of Arbroath, TR 316km 026 Bramsnaes Vig, DENMARK 963km 112 Escalonilla, Toled, SPAIN 2188km 185 Sousel, PORTUGAL 2026km 189 Quarteira, PORTUGAL 2268km 187 near Suysar, Karelia, USSR 2026km 082 Nes, Hedmark, NORWAY 758km 078 Laugar, ICELAND 1055km 311 Cayeux, Somme, FRANCE 1057km 169 Balerno, LR 131km 188 Coupar Angus, TR 651km 348 Lodmore, Dorset 590km 177 Wimbourne, Dorset 620km 171 Abbotsbury, Dorset 594km 168 59 Whitethroat Sylvia communis 1 BOS7337 3. + 18.7.81 Cousland, LR xF 17.86.81 Warton, Warwickshire 376km 166 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 4 A810922 3 24.9.81 North Ronaldsay, OR x 10.10.81 Prestatyn, Clwyd, Wales 675km 185 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 7 A316738 4f 17.4.80 Dungeness, Kent v 15.7.81 Bothwell, SC 638km 328 8189525 3m 7.10.81 Fair Isle uv 5.12.81 Furness Abbey, Cumbria 608km 189 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 10 181364 3 29.7.7B8 Melvich, HR v 8.5.81 The Calf, Isle of Man S03km 186 104067 2 24,.8.80 Hamble, Hampshire x (8.7.81) Lairg, HR 821km 346 200545 4f 21.5,80 Letterwalton, Connel, SC v-11.5.81 South Walney, Cumbria 306km 153 689164 3 19.7.80 Melvich, HR v12.5.81 Oosterbierum, NETHERLANDS B33km 135 209271 4 7.5.81 Gibraltar Point, Lincs. xF 27.6.81 Longannet, FR 41?km 322 8C0246 4 8.5.81 North Ronaldsay, OR xF 19.5.81 Dry Orayton, Cambridgeshire 807km 169 989202 4 11.4.81 Moreton, Wirral, Merseyside xF(27.4.81) Fenwick, SC 266km 341 9A9218 4 21.5.81 Out Skerries, SH vv 26.5.81 Utsira, Rogaland, NORWAY 339km 111 PN3310 3 12,.8.81 Orumnadrochit, HR v 149.81 Gibraltar Point, Lincolnshire S61km 147 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 1 OES653 4m 6.9.81 The Calf, Isle of Man v 7.9.81 Sanda Island, Kintyre, SC 145km 341 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 1 8056932 3 13.9.81 Fair Isle, v19,9.81 North Ronaldsay, OR 49km 250 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca 1 KX88240 1f 12.6.80 Greenhaugh, Northumberland v 4.6.81 Rhuveag, Balquidder, CR 186km 314 Starling Sturnus vulgaris 50 XV40768 3f 28.10.76 Tobermory, Mull, SC xL 1.7.81 Jaren, Gran, NORWAY 1052km 067 CHSO165 3f 8.12.76 Tobermory, Mull, SC xF 12.6.81 Frosta, Trondheim, NORWAY 1209km 050 These were the longest distance recoveries but there were a further 7 in Norway (5 ringed in winter and 2 on passage in spring). Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 10 A313431 3m 23.12.78 Dronfield S F, Derbyshire v 7.4.81 Fair Isle 693km 359 8003562 4f 15.4.81 Fair Isle x 22.4.81 Helgoland, WEST GERMANY 829km 136 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 4 A810249 3f 2.10.80 North Ronaldsay, OR v 16.1.81 Orumnadrochit, HR 256km 208 A026373 4f 1.4.81 Isle of May, FR xF 23.1.81 Utsira, Rogaland, NORWAY 562km 052 B032003 5m 26.1.81 Queenamidda, Rendal, OR v 30.1.81 Fair Isle, 99km 058 8189541 3m 10.10.81 Fair Isle, xF 21.10.81 Schalkhaar, Netherlands 942km 149 Siskin Carduelis spinus 16 A325787 3m 28.12.80 Cannington, Somerset v 31.3.81 Wormit, FR 587km 001 A215591 Sm 2.4.81 Wormit, FR vo 11.5,81 Kiltarlity, HR 142km 320 A329138 5S 7.2.81 Kempton Park, Surrey Vv 11.5.81 Balnain, Glenurquhart, HR 711km 338 A369982 6f 15.3,.81 Exeter, Devon v 3.5.81 Shenval, Glenurquhart, HR 738km 355 A767303 Sm 10.3.81 Culloden, HR x 7.4.81 Windsor, Berkshire 704km 161 A895820 3 + 16.5.81 Golspie, HR () 7.11.81 Povoa de Varzim, PORTUGAL 1837km 190 A912891 Sm 17.3.81 Gordon Hill, Enfield, London v 6.5.81 Glentrool, OR 481km 322 A936119 Sm 21,2.81 Virginia Water, Surrey xF 13.5.81 Invergarry, HR 688km 337 A936164 6m 1.3.81 Virginia Water, Surrey v 10.5.81 Kiltarlity, HR 715km 339 B12461* 6m 2.4.81 Bidston, Wirral, Merseyside v 10.5.81 Kiltarlity, HR 455km 349 Twite Carduelis flavirostris 2 AS45063 4f 13.12.80 Killimster, Wick, HR x 18.5.81 Inverasdale, Pociewe, HR 165km 243 60 Notice to Contributors Records should be sent to the appropriate local recorders but in cases of difficulty they can be forwarded by the editor. These records should be on one side of the sheet only, well spaced and in species order, following the Voous sequence. The only exception is that Aberdeenshire and north Kincardineshire records should be in place and date order. Observers should consult previous reports for the sort of information required. To avoid duplication of records by the recorders, names of other observers present should be given where appropriate. Notes for the year should be sent promptly, generally in early January, but some recorders prefer more frequent records and regular contributors are asked to consult local recorders about this. Reports of occasional visits to areas outwith the observer's regular territory, such as holiday lists, should usually be sent to recorders as soon as possible. Records of rarities, including species only locally rare, should be sent to recorders without delay. To save recorders’ (often considerable) time and expense, correspondents should enclose a stamped addressed envelope or indicate that no acknowledgement is required. 61 SN tS Ccyw § oe an | Edited by: Roy H. Dennis Published by: The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT THE SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB The S.O.C. was formed in 1936 with the aim of encouraging ornithology in — Scotland. The Club has nearly 3,000 members and 13 Branches around Scotland. Each Branch has a programme of winter lectures and field trips throughout the year. An annual conference is held in the autumn. The objects of the Club are (a) to encourage the study of Scottish ornithology 7 4 and to promote interest in wild birds; (b) to co-ordinate the activities of — Scottish ornithologists and encourage co-operation between amateur and ~ professional; (c) to encourage ornithological work in Scotland in co- operation with other organizations; (d) to encourage conservation of ~~ Scottish birds and protection of threatened and rare species; (e) to hold ~ meetings for discussion and the presentation of papers and informal contributions, and to arrange ornithological field meetings; (f) to appoint j : local recorders and publish material relating to Scottish ornithology. — including Scottish Birds, the club journal. Membership of the S.O.C. is open to anyone interested in Scottish — ornithology. The current annual subscriptions are:- PNG Th aN NR Gere ARS ane aun Oe Saeco n £7.50 Junior (under 21 or eident under2S) Menens seee £3.00 Family (husband and wife, or parent(s) and nomin- ated children under8) oe eae sateen £11.00 Life membership adulterers c-cees es eee eee eee £150.00 Life membership, husband and wife................... £225.00 People entitled to the Old Age Pension may pay a reduced subscription of — £4.50 (adult) or £6.50 (family). The Club’s journal Scottish Birds is published quarterly. It contains papers, articles and short notes relating to ornithology in Scotland. The annual q Scottish Bird Report is also published by the Club. The S.O.C.’s offices, Library and Bookshop are located in Edinburgh. The ~ Waterston Library, perhaps the best ornithological reference library in ~ Scotland, is open during office hours, (Monday to Friday, 9am to Spm). The Bird Bookshop is run by the Club for the benefit of ornithology in Scotland. It is one of the world’s leading ornithological booksellers, carrying a stock of over 600 English language titles. Its business is primarily mail order with a significant proportion of orders from overseas. Further details of the Club and its activities, membership application x forms and copies of the latest Book Catalogue are obtainable from the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT, ~ Scotland, (Tel. No. 031-556 6042). SCOTTISH BIRD REPORT 1982 Part of Scottish Birds Volume 12 Edited by ROY H. DENNIS Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness 1V1 1XD Assisted by Alan Brown, Pete Ellis and Angus Hogg. CONTENTS Introduction Acknowledgements Local recorders for 1982 and 1983 Abbreviations and symbols List of Observers Species List Notice to Contributors . Published by the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 SBT June 1984 Printed by Capital Print Unit 4, Thorntreeside, Easter Road, Edinburgh EH6 8TN OmMND WwW - 12 46 INTRODUCTION 1982 was another interesting year for bird-watchers in Scotland; a total of 315 species were identified during the year and recorded in this report. Over 85 rare birds were recorded and 31 of these were represented by only a single individual. Nine species were considered to have escaped or been released from captivity or were of doubtful origin. The one new bird added to the Scottish List was an American Redstart on Islay. Year 77 78 79 80 81 82 No. of species recorded 305 298 323 315 325 315 No. of new species 4 Z 6 4 1 1 Other rare vagrants included American Bittern, Little Egret, Black Duck, Ferruginous Duck, Red Kite (2), Montagu’s Harrier, Baillon’s Crake, Greater Sand Plover, Baird’s Sandpiper (2), Spotted Sandpiper, Bona- parte’s Gull, Ross’s Gull, Rufous Turtle Dove, Roller, Grey-cheeked Thrush, Black-throated Thrush, American Robin, River Warbler (2), Lanceolated Warbler (3), Woodchat Shrike, Rosy Starling, Serin, Tennessee Warbler and Yellow-rumped Warbler. Arrivals and Departures of summer visitors: Arrival Departure Osprey 28 March 19 October Corncrake 24 April 7 October Whimbrel 23 March 20 October Common Sandpiper 5 April 26 November Cuckoo 18 April 17 September Swift 26 April 6 November Sand Martin 25 March 7 November Swallow 23 March 20 November House Martin 28 March 15 November Tree Pipit 14 April 18 October Redstart 8 April 5 December Whinchat 19 April 13 November Wheatear 5 March : 14 November Sedge Warbler 6 April 12 October Whitethroat 22 April 14 October Garden Warbler 16 April 12 November Willow Warbler 1 April 30 November Spotted Flycatcher 7 April 15 October After a cold winter, some small birds such as Wrens were very scarce. Colder weather which returned at the end of March delayed spring arrivals and early nesters. It was an average nesting season; Ospreys reared 45 young, the best since recolonization. There was an influx of Quail and several reports of breeding were confirmed. Ruddy Ducks increased; Scarlet Rosefinch bred for the first recorded time and two broods of Bramblings were found, the first proved successful nesting. Choughs were censussed and at least 200 birds were located, while the first ever complete survey of Golden Eagles revealed 424 pairs. It was a poor wader passage, but this was made up for by an incredible fall of continental migrants on the east coast in mid-October when at least 15000 Goldcrests arrived on the Isle of May on 11 October. Rarities were much in evidence, especially Pallas’s Warblers which reached a total of between 55 and 60 individuals. There was also an invasion of Parrot Crossbills—the first since 1962. Iceland Gulls occurred during the year in good numbers; Marsh Harriers and Rough-legged Buzzards were also above average but Garganey were low. Notes on compiliation: This report is published by the Scottish Ornithol- ogists’ Club and should be regarded as part of Scottish Birds Volume 12 (and can be bound with that volume). For new recorders it should be noted that the report is a concise (and at times terse) summary of data collected on all species known to have occurred in scotland in 1982 and no attempt is made to define the ordinary status of most species. Precedence is given to peak numbers, migration patterns, first and last dates, records in unusual areas etc. All records of semi and national rarities are give while for some species the data has been summarised in table form. For further infor- mation readers can refer to The Birds of Scotland (Baxter & Rintoul 1953) or previous Scottish Bird Reports which are still available from the Secretary. As before we stress that observer cover in various regions of Scotland ranges from very good to pretty thin and care should be taken in comparing numbers and regional distribution, especially of migrants. Generally speaking, the Northern Isles, the North Sea coast, central Scotland and the Clyde/Solway areas are better covered than elsewhere, but there are pockets of good cover in most regions. For some areas, more information is published and greater detail given in local bird reports. Although much local information cannot be published here, the collection of records by the local recorders provides a most useful fund of reference data for regional ornithology. In conclusion, I apologise for the late appearance of this report, which has been due to various problems. The task of compiling the annual SBR has grown considerably since 1970 when I took over the editing of report number 3. We are now up to report number 15 and I have decided to retire. Angus Hogg, who along with Alan Brown and Pete Ellis has assisted with the compilation of this report, has taken on the task of producing the 1983 report. I wish him well with what is really a very interesting project and I look forward to helping him, especially as I will continue to collect and summarise Rare Breeding Bird records. es ry ¢ Reb eG se oer] Whe? ; — . a 3 A Ny —) as . “ +e: te. Sa . Pa i a 7 Sere ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to thank everyone who has contributed or helped with the 1982 report, including the observers who sent in the records and especially | the local recorders who collated the records and produced the area reports. LOCAL RECORDERS Shetland, Dennis Coutts, ‘‘Da Knowe’’, Twagoes Road, Lerwick, Shetland. Fair Isle, N. Riddiford, Bird Observatory, Fair Isle, Shetland. Orkney, C.J. Booth, ‘‘Ronas’’ 34 High Street, Kirkwall, Orkney. Outer Hebrides, St. Kilda, W.A.J. Cunningham, Aros, 10 Barony Square, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis PA87 2TQ. Caithness, Mrs P.M. Collett, Sandyquoy, East Gills, Scrabster, Caithness KW14 7UH. Sutherland, A.R. Mainwood, 13 Ben Bhraggie Drive, Golspie, Sutherland. Ross-shire, Inverness-shire, R.H. Dennis, Landberg, North Kessock, Inverness IV1 1XD. Nairnshire, Morayshire, Banffshire, N. Elkins, 10 Oakbank Place, Elgin, Morayshire IV30 2LZ. Aberdeen, North Kincardineshire, Dr M.V. Bell, 20 West Mout Street, Aberdeen AB2 4RJ. South Kincardineshire, Angus, N.K. Atkinson, 5 Tolmount Crescent, Montrose, Angus DD10 9DQ. Perthshire, E.D. Cameron, Strathclyde, 14 Union Road, Scone, Perthshire PH2 6RZ. Isle of May, B. Zonfrillo, 28 Brodie Road, Balornock East, Glasgow G21 3SB. Fife (except Forth Islands), Kinross-shire, 1.G. Cumming, 11 Canongate, St. Andrews, Fife. Clackmannanshire, East Stirlingshire, Dr C.J. Henty, 3 The Broich, Alva, Clackmannanshire. West Lothian, Forth Islands (except May), Midlothian, A.W. .& L. Brown, 232 Rullion Road, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 9JL. Argyllshire, Inner Hebrides, R.F. Coomber, 4 Staffa Cottages, Tobermory, Isle of Mull PA7S 6PL. Dunbartonshire, West Stirlingshire, Renfrewshire, I.P. Gibson, Arcadia, The Glen, Howwood, Renfrewshire. Lanarkshire, Dr E.S. Alexander, 3 Lilac Hill, Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Ayrshire, Arran, Bute, R.H. Hogg, Kirklea, 11 Kirkmichael Road, Cross- hill, Maybole, Ayrshire. Dumfriesshire, Dr E. Fellowes, West Isle, Islesteps, Dumfries DG2 8ES. Kircudbrightshire, Wigtownshire, A.D. Watson, Barone, 54 Main Street, Dalry, Castle Doublas, Kircudbrightshire DG9 3UW. ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS IN THE SPECIES LIST all known records are given * of escaped or doubtful origin t male maleso' Co female 2 females Q 9? § still subject to British Birds Rarities Committee decision—all records given here of species that come within the scope of the British Birds Rarities Committee have been accepted by the committee unless noted as subject to accept- ance. Records of species not on that list but regarded as rare in Scotland have required adequate supporting evidence before publi- cation. We appeal to observers to submit descriptions of rare and unusual species to the local recorder as soon as possible, preferably on an unusual record form, obtainable free from the local recorder. County names are shortened, e.g. Shet =Shetland, Wig =Wigtown-shire etc. In fact much abbreviation has been used, e.g. months, and qualifi- cations such as ‘near’ and ‘about’ have been omitted. List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species) as published in the ‘British Birds’ The sequence and names in the species list follow Prof. K.H. Voous (1977, List of Birds of the Western Palearctic. LIST OF OBSERVERS Over 100 observers contributed records to the local recorders in 1982 and we are extremely grateful to them. Not all contributors are mentioned in this list, since in many cases records were summarized before submission to us; my apologies to those omitted. D.E. Abbey, G.S. Adam, R.G. Adam, S.R. Adam, N. Aebischer, D. Aim, E.S. & A.A. Alexander, S.M.D. Alexander, T. Alexander, M. Allison, A. Anderson, G. Anderson, P. Anderson, P.D. Anderson, W.N. Anderton, I]. Andrews, R.A.G. Angus, S. Angus, J.A. Ankers, W. Appleyard, J. Armitage, N. Armstrong, J.M.S. Arnott, N.K. Atkinson, W. Austin. C. Badenoch, R.M. Baikie; A.B. Bailey, D.A. Bailey, Dr R.S. Bailey, I.V. Balfour-Paul, J.H. Ballantyne, K.W. Banks, A.W. Barker, J & T. Barrett, S.F. Barstow, Mrs E. Bartlett, G. Bashford, D.J.Bates, G.G.Bates, S. Bates, D. Batty, P.G.T. Baxter, M.J. Bayne, A. Beck, G.F. Bell, M. Bell, Dr M.V. Bell, B. & T. Bellamy, P. Bellamy, N. Benvie, C. Berthelot, Z. Bhatia, I. Black, C.G. Booth, C.J. Booth, J. Booth, C.M. Booth, D. Borton, P. Bould, Dr W.R.P. Bourne, I. Boustead, P. Bowyer, T. Boyd, W.R. Brackenridge, A.T. Bramhall, W. Branner, Miss A. Brenchley, R.A. Broad, B.J. Broadley, G.J. Brock, K. Brockie, B. Brodie, A. Brown, A.W. Brown, H. Brown, Mrs L.M. Brown, M.A. Bruce, W. Bruce, A. Buckham, S.T. Buckland, G. Burdett, R.G. Burton, H. Burton, J.L. Burton, D.G. Butler, Dr N. Buxton, T. Byars, C. Byers, D. Bryne, The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). R.L. Calder, R.G. Caldow, M. Callan, R. Calligan, D. Cameron, E.D. Cameron, I. Cameron, J.M. Cameron, B. Campbell, G. Campbell, R.B. Cardno, D Carnduff, M.F. Carrier, J. Carruthers, D. Carstairs, Dr M.E. Castle, M.S. Cavanagh, M.S. Chapman, M.C. Chesney, J. Chester, G. Christie, I.C. Christie, P. Childs, Dr B.J. Clark, H. Clark, J.A.C. Clarke, T.R.A. Clegg, R. Cleghorn, A. Clements, D.L. Clugston, A.J. Clunas, J. Cobb, D. Coleman, A.F.C.M. & P.M. Collett, D.R. Collins, J.G. & J.M. Conner, D. Counsell, G. Conway, T.P. Conway, M.J.H. Cook, N. Cook, R. Cook, R.F. Coomber, P. Cooper, M. Copeland, G.B. Corbett, R. Corbett, D.W. Core, A. Cormack, C.J. Corse, B. Cosnette, S.J. Court, D. Coutts, P. Coxon, G.M. Crighton, G. Crittenden, J. Cromarty, W.I. Crowther, 1.G. Cumming, J.W. Cumming, J. Cudworth, W.A.J. Cunningham, F. Curran, A. Currie, O.D. & M.F. Cuthbert, J. Cutt. G. Dalziel, L. Dalziel, 1.M. Darling, J.N. Darroch, 1.G. & C.D. Davidson, Mrs J. Dawson, A.R.A. Day, T. Delaney, Mrs M.T. Dennis, R.H. Dennis, S. & K. Denny, M.L.Denton, A.J. Deverell, A. Dewar, D. Dick, D. Dickson, G. Dickson, J.M. Dickson, R.C. Dickson, S. Dix, T. Dixon, D. Doig, H.E.M. Dott, T.W. Dougall, A. Dowell, R. Downing, A.F.G. Dowse, A. Drever, C. Duck, J. Dunbar, A. Duncan, J.M. Duncan, N. Duncan, F. Dunlop, J.F. Dunn, M.H. Dunn, Prof. G.M. Dunnet, R.F. Durman, E. Duthie, M. Duthie, J.N. Dymond. R. Early, N. Easterbee, C.J. Eatough, H. Edwards, J. Edelston, D.M. & J. Edge, A.J. Eggeling, T. Eggeling, N. Elkins, P.M. Ellis, I. English, Sir R. Erskine-Hill, B. Etheridge, F. Eunson, D.P.P. Eva, Mrs F. Evans, P.J. Ewins. K. Fairclough, G. Fawcett, C. Ferguson, J.L.F. Ferguson, T. Finniemore, C. Fisher, A. Fitchett, G.J. Fitchett, R.A. Ford, B.C. Forrester, R.W. Forrester, J. Forsyth, W. Forsyth, M.W. Fraser, G.H. French, Dr C.H. Fry, Dr R.W. Furness. C.A. Galbraith, H. Galbraith, R. Gash, F. Gatens, 1.P. Gibson, D. Given, C. Gomersall, A.G. Gordon, J.J. Gordon, P.R. Gordon, P.W. Gossip, D. Gotts, J. Goudie, R. Goven, D.K. Graham, N. Graham, R. Graham, I.P. Grant, J.A.R. Grant, A. Gray, F. Gray, M. Gray, W.S. Gray, S. Green, S. Greenstreet, J.J.D. Greenwood, M.J.P. Gregory, W. Grierson, D. Grieve, J.M. Gunn. 9 S.R. Hacker, J. Haigh, K. Hall, Mrs H.S.C. Halliday, Dr K.C.R. Halliday, F.D. Hamilton, I.R. Hamilton, K.C. Hamilton, P.F. Hancock, M.G.R. Hannay, J.J.C. Hardey, Dr M.P. Harris, M.I. Harvey, R. Hawley, C.G. Headlam, S. Headley, P.R. Heaton, A. Heaviesides, G.S. Heddon, N. Henderson, I. Hendry, J. Hendry, Dr C.J. Henty, R.E.F. Heslop, P.B. Heppleston, M. Heubeck, V. Hewison, W. Hewison, B.A. Hickman, W.D. Higgins, E.M. Hissett, R. Hissett, J.R.L. Hogarth, R.H. Hogg, J. Holiway, P. Hope-Jones, Dr P.G. Hopkins, J. Hornbuckle, D.H.B. Howie, B. Hughes, D. Hudson, D.C. Hulme. M.J. Imber, A.D. Inglis, J. Innes, M. Innes, A. Irvine, D.L. Irving, T. Irving, J.C. Isom, J.H. Isom. S. Jack, J. Jamieson, D.C. Jardine, S. Jarvis, R. Jeffrey, R.A. Jeffrey, Dr D. Jenkins, A.R. Jennings, P. Johnson, A.F. Johnston, W.G. Johnston, G. Jones, M. Jones, Mrs L. Joughlin. J. Keeble, S. Kennedy, B.D. Kerr, D. Kerridge, R.F.K. Kiddie, A.J. Kilgour, P.K. Kinnear, J. Kirk, A.R. Kitson, J. Knowler, J. Knox, E. Kwater, Mrs J. Kyle. P. Lack, A. Laing, S. Laing, S.A. Laing, B.R. Lancaster, D.C. Lang, A.R.D Laurenson, W. Laurenson, J. Law, S. Laybourne, D. Lea, E.A. Lea, I.H. Leach, R. Leavett, J. Leck, F. Leckie, J. Leece, S. Leece, A.F. Leitch, D. Leith, E.P Leven, M. Leven, J.P. Lindsay, M.K. Lindsay, J. Lister-Kaye, I. Livingstone I]. Lorimer, F.Y. & J.D. Lough, L.S. Lovat, J.Love, B.M. Lynch. D. & H. McAllister, A. McBay, N. McCance, C. McCarty, J. & R. McCutcheon, D. Macdonald. G. MacDonald. S. Macdonald. Mrs M.K. Macduff-Duncan, D.H. McEwen, J.T. McEwen, J. McGrandle, A. Mclver, D.J. MclIvor, I.R. MacKay, C.R. MacKay, S.G. Mackay, W. McKechnie, I. McKellar, I.M. McKinnie, I. McLachlan, D. MacLeod, I.C. Mcleod, D.B. McNee, A. McNicoll, A. Mackie, E.J. Maguire, M. Main, C. Mainland, A.R. Mainwood, D. Malau, M. Mallalieu, R.J. Mann, M. Mansfield, J. Manson, S.A.M. Manson, M. Marquiss, B. Marshall, P. Marsh, E.M. Marshall, A.P. Martin, A.R. Martin, M.W.A. Martin, C. Massingham, A. Mathieson, W.A. Mattingley, E.W.E. & H. Maughan, R. Mearns, E.R. Meek, J.K.R. Melrose, T.D.H. Merrie, N. Metcalfe, J. Middleton, H. Miles, R.J. Miller, J.S. Milliken, P.R. Mills, A. Milne, Dr H. Milne, N. Milne, R. Milne, D.W. Minns, D. Mitchell, J. Mitchell, R. Mitchell, T. Moncrieff, J.F. Monk, D. Morris, C.M. Morrison, G. Morrison, Dr W.M. Morrison, R. Morton, J. Moss, Dr R. Moss, J. de Mournay, D. Mower, S. Moyes, A.M. Mundie, P.W. Murphy, J. Murray, R.D. Murray, S. Murray, W. Murray, J.H.B. Munro, M. Muttie. Nature Conservancy Council, W. Neill, S.F. Newton, M. Nicoll, R.G. Nisbet, D.J. Norden, S. North. J.Ogilvy, M.A. Ogilvie, J.D. Okill, D.W. Oliver, J. Orchell, J.LM.A. Osborne, E. Owen. J. Pairman, S.M. Pallmer, C. Park, Rev M. & C. Paternoster, J.L. Paterson, G.L.A. Patrick, D. Patterson, W.G. Patterson, A.G. Payne, D. Paynter, C.R. Pell, I.D. Penman, I.D. Pennie, S. Percival, A. Phillips, M. Phillips, B. Philp, C. Pickup, N. Picozzi, D. Pierce, M.F. Piper, N. Poleson, R.K. Pollok, M. Porteous, B. Pounder, Mrs E.S. da Prato, $.R.D. da Prato, C. Prentice, I. Puckrin, D.M. Pullan, I. Purvis. P. Rae, S. Rae, R.A. Ramage, A.D.K. Ramsay, E. Ravenscroft, S. Read, G. Rebecca, J. Rendall, R.C. Redman, A.D. Rendall, P. Reynolds, B. Ribbands, G. Richards, M.G. Richardson, N.J. Riddiford, G.S. Riddle, I.S. Rintoul, A.B. Ritchie, G. Ritchie, K. Ritchie, H. Robb, B. Robertson, G. Robertson, G.S. 10 Robertson, I.S. Robertson, R. Robertson, M. Robinson, C. Robson, D. Rogerson, T. Rogers, M. Ross, B. Rowley, C. Rowley, Dr D.E. Rowling, R. Roxburgh, Dr M. Rusk, S.M. Russell. G.L. Sandeman, P.W. Sandeman, I. Sandison, S. Sankey, L. Schofield, R.A. Schofield, Mrs M.A. Scott, M.G. Scott, P.B. Scott, R. Scott, R. Shand, Mrs A.F.W. Sharp, M. Sharp, G. Shaw, K.D. Shaw, K.B. Shepherd, G. Sheppard, S. & M.E. Shimeld, R.A. Showan, J. Simpson, M. Sinclair, H. Skelton; D. Skilling, J. Skilling, P. Skimmings, A.J. Smith, D.A. Smith, Mrs E.M. Smith, G. Smith, J.L. Smith, P. Smith, R.A. Smith, R.T. Smith, R.W.J. Smith, S. Smith, 1.G. Smitton, A.M.Smout, T.C. Smout, D.S. Soutar, I. Spence, J. Spooner, E.F.B. Spragge, Dr C.J. Spray, A. Sprott, D. Stalker, J. Steele, L.D. Steele, D.P. Stevens, D.J. Steventon, A. Stewart, A.G. Stewart, D. Stewart, B.J. Stewart, J.A. Stewart, P. Stirling-Aird, 1. Stachan, D.A. & J. Stroud, R.W. Summers, M. Sutherland, M. Suttor, 1.S. Suttie, R.L. Swann, J.J. Sweeney, H. Sykes, F. Symonds, Scottish Wildlife Trust. E. Tait, T. Talbot, M.L. Tasker, J. Taylor, K. Taylor, S. Taylor, R. Thaxton, P.S. Thompson, B. Thomson, I. Thomson, M.S. Thomson, M.E. Thornton, D. Thorogood, G.A.Todd, W.H. Tucker, D. Tuckwell, R.J. Tulloch, P.J. Turner. P.Upton, D.C. Urquhart, L.A. Urquhart. A.Venters, K. Verrall, Dr L.L.J. Vick. A. Walker, B.P. Walker, K. Walker, K.G. Walker, P. Walker, J.H. Wallace, A. Walterson, G. Walterson, S. Wanless, S. Ward, M. Ware, C.E. & S.R. Warham, D.J. Warnock, D. & M. Washington, Dr A. Watson, A.J. Watson, D.N. Weir, T. Weir, R.C. Welland, T. Welland, R.J. Westhope, D.S. Whitaker, G.T. White, S.M. Whitehouse, A. Whitelaw, P. Whyatt, G.T. Whyte, J. Wiffen, E.J. Williams, S. Williams, Mrs D.L. Willis, 1.R. Willis, M. Wills, J. Wilson, J.M. & N.M. Wilson, A.D. Wood, H. & K.F. Woodbridge, K. Woodbridge, S. Woolfall, P. Wortham, G.A. Wright, M. Wright, G.T. Wylie, Prof. V.C. Wynne- Edwards. T. Youd, A. Young, J.G. Young, L. Young, R.E. Youngman. R. Zawadski, B. Zonfrillo. 11 SPECIES LIST Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Breeding: varied success Shet where 36 chicks found in survey area (54 in 1981); Ork, 8 young reared on monitored lochs is low; Suth, good breeding season in N—2 young reared from 3 prs Handa; Inv, 3 nests Balmacaan Forest; 10 prs Arran. Peak counts and passage: Shet, 26 Yell Sound 12 Jul; Fair Isle, few 18 May-4 Nov; Ork, Ist on 16 Feb, 28 Loomachun Evie 3 Aug; Suth, 166 Embo-Dornoch 23 Oct; Moray, 94 Spey Bay 14 Nov; Aber, 240 Menie-Ythan 23 Oct, 239 Don-Balmedie 14 Nov; Fife; 50 St Andrew's Bay-Kinshaldy 15 Feb; Midl, 28 Joppa-Seafield 19 Oct; E Loth, 60-68 Gullane Bay Feb-early Apr; Borders, 1 near Kelso 25 Oct; Arg, 17 Lna Keal, Mull 17 Jan; Ayr, 50 Finnarts Bay-Girvan 21 Mar; Wig, 16 L Ryan 4 Apr. Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica Breeding: Caith, 5 prs reared 3 young; Perth, 3 prs each reared 1 young; W Stir, pr reared 1 young-Ist time ever; none bred Ayr, Arran. Shet, 9 records of singles 23 Mar-10 Dec, Ork, 7 Hobbister 1 Jan, 20 Echnaloch Bay 3 May; Caith, 6 Sinclair’s Bay 6 Mar; Suth, 10 Embo- Dornoch 23 Oct; Inv, 1 L Insh 6 Dec; Fife, 12 Fife Ness 16 Apr; E Loth, 5 Gullane 23 May; Ayr, 9 Doonfoot-Gailes 20 Mar. Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Winter-spring peaks: Shet, 55 Fetlar 1 Apr, 50 Yell 13 May; Ork. 53 Bring Deeps 10 Mar, 120 Gairsay Sound 1 Apr; Caith, 6-7 Sinclair’s Bay 27 Mar; small nos to $; Aber, 7N Peterhead 26 Apr; Arg, 35 Gigha-W Loch Tarbert 22 Mar; Arran, 3N Glen Sannox 8 May; Ayr, 5 Ballantrae-Girvan 21 Mar; Wig, 6 Monreith-Port William Jan. Notable summer records: Arg, 2 Mull 20 Jul; Ayr, 2 Kennedy’s Pass 8 Jun: 1 inland loch Suth 27 May. Autumn: Shet, 22 Bluemull 24 Nov; Ork, 30 Egilsay 30 Oct; Arg, 13 Mull 15 Oct; Borders, 2 St Abbs 25 Sep; Wig, 3 L Ryan 13 Nov, 1 L Magillie 14 Nov-31 Dec. *White-billed Diver Gavia adamsii Three in Shet: one Whalsay from 1981 to 24 Mar (Dr B. Marshall et al), probably same near Vidlin 14 Feb (B. P. Walker) and North Nesting 24 Apr (P. J. Ewins)§; one Wedder Holm, Unst-Yell 13 May (R. J. Tulloch) and one Quendale 18 May (Sir R. Erskine-hill et a/). Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Breeding success varied: Dunb/W Stir/Renf, ave brood size 2 from 30 prs; Glas, 16 prs reared 17 young Strathkelvin District; Ayr, 3 prs reared 9 young; poor success Fife, Borders. Counts and passage; Shet, absent 8 Apr-3 Oct; W Loth, 35 Linlithgow 17 Oct; W Stir, 25 Bardowie L 12 Sep; Glas, 31 Johnston L 26 Sep; Lan, 48 Stepps 3 Oct; Ayr, 14 Shewalton 22 Aug. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Breeding: Dumf, 14 young Lochmaben 16 Jul; Kirk, 12 prs reared 13 young; Ayr, 3 prs reared 6 young; Lan, 5 prs reared 11-4 prs failed; Dunb/W Stir/Renf, 19 prs reared 10; no success Borders; Loth, varied success-20 young Linlithgow 3 Aug; Fife, 16 prs reared 20+ young; Kinr, 30 prs L Leven; Perth, 11 prs reared 11+ young; Aber, pair failed, but 1 young fledged from 2 prs at another site. Counts and migrants: Shet, 1 Laxo Voe 23 Jan; 1 Fair Isle 14 Nov; Suth, 3 Embo 14 Nov; Ross, 1 L Eye 24 Oct; Fife, 183 St Andrew’s Bay 7 Feb; Kinr, 66 L Leven 3 Oct; Midl, 150 Silverknowes 9 Mar, 593 Joppa-Seafield 13 Dec; E Loth, 42 Gullane 4 Sep; low nos elsewnere; Dunb, 12 Ardmore 10 Oct; Renf, 24 Lochwinnoch 1 Apr; Ayr, 10 Barassie 2-31 Dec; Dumf, 44 Lochmaben 28 Mar. Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Winter-spring: Shet; 4 singles 11 Jan-20 Mar; Ork, 1 Deer Sound 7 Mar, 1 Waulkmill 14 Mar; O Heb, 1 N Uist 6 Jan, 6 Mar; Caith, 1 Scotland’s Haven 14 Feb; Moray, 1 Burghead Bay 20 Feb; Aber, 2N Peterhead 24 Jan; Angus, 2 Stannergate 17 Jan; low nos elsewhere; Fife, 4 Largo Bay 15 Apr; Midl, 3 Musselburgh 8 Mar; E Loth, 2 Aberlady 17 May; Dunb, 2 Ardmore 23 Jan; Arran, IN Glen Sannox 3 May; Ayr, 1 Finnarts Bay 21 Mar; Wig, 1 Cairnryan 24 Jan; Dumf, 1 R Annan 12-15 Jan. Summer, | ad at inland loch 12 Apr-8 June. Autumn: Shet, singles Skerries 8 Sep, Tingwall 13-Dec; Ork, 1 Echnaloch 19 Oct, 7 Nov; 19 Embo 28 Nov; Aber, 1 Ythan 9-26 Nov; Kinr, 1 Vane Farm 25 Sep; Midl, from 26 Aug, 4 Musselburgh 17 Nov; E Loth, 28 Gosford 18 Sep; Borders, 1 St Abbs 16 Oct; Dunb, 1 Ardmore 8 Dec; Lan, 1 Calderbank 28 Oct-14 Nov; Ayr, | Troon 20-28 Dec. 12 - Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Breeding: at least 46-54 pairs in Inv (but not complete census) reared 16-24 young; Moray, 4 pairs reared c 7 young; Perth, one pair usual site but no young, non-breeding reports from 3 other lochs. Counts and migration: Shet, 15 Whiteness Voe 30 Mar, 15 Catfirth 4 Apr; 1 killed by gulls Fair Isle 2 Oct-2 on 16 Oct; Ork, max 22 Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Suth, 9 Embo 29 Nov; Aber, 2 Strathbeg 29 Sep; Fife, 10 Tentsmuir 7 Mar; Midl, max 13 Musselburgh 14 Feb; E Loth, peaks 65 Gosford-Gullane 24 Jan, 48 on 20 Mar; Borders, 2 Cove 17 Jan; Arg, 12 L na Keal, Mull 14 Nov, 12 L Indaal, Islay 11 Dec; Ayr, 2 Barassie 30 Nov; Wig, max 4 L Ryan 13, 20 Nov; Dumf, 5S Lochmaben 16 Oct. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Breeding: 3 prs with 5 young at usual site 7 Aug, pr with no young at second site; one pr with 3 young at western site. Migrants: O Heb, 1 S Uist 1 Nov-Ist record for area; Midl, 2 Joppa 23 Mar, 1 Musselburgh 21 Feb, 6 Mar, 10-15 Aug, 10 Oct; E Loth, 1 Gosford 4 Apr, 7 Nov; Borders, 1 dead Hule Moss 11 Sep; Arg, singles L Cuin, Mull 20 Jan, West L Tarbert 31 Mar, L Indaal, Islay 11 Dec; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 14 Feb-1 Mar; Wig, max only 3 L Ryan 14 Mar, 20 Nov. *Black-browed Albatross Diomedea melanophris Adult again summered on nest at Hermaness gannetry, present between 14 Feb and 10 Sep (C. Guy ef al). Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis Breeding: Shet, 6085 ads on nests in monitored area Noss; Ork, 100 nest sites N Fara, 200 birds Pentland Skerries 6 Jun; O Heb, egg taken from Ist inland Lewis nest; Aber, 495 sites checked, 192 fledged; Fife, 3 prs bred Benarty Hill; decline I of May, only 58 chicks; Midl, 1 young Torphin quarry 27 Aug; 914 sites Forth Is; Inv, 548 sites Canna, 694 sites Rhum; decrease Arran to 154 sites; Ayr, continued poor success. Blue-phase birds: Shet, 8 Fetlar Mar; regular Fair Isle Aug-Oct; Ork, 17 sightings 8 Jan-24 Oct; Aber, max 30 sightings Feb-Dec; singles Caith, E Loth, Borders. Passage peaks: 30,000 Fair Isle 20 Mar; Ork, 1800W/hr Papa Westray 21 Aug; Caith, 3000 Duncansby Head 9 Feb; Aber, 1200N/hr Peterhead 10 Jun; E Loth, albino Aberlady 30 Aug, Skateraw 5-15 Sep. *Cory’s Shearwater’ Calonectris. diomedea One Brough of Birsay, Ork 27 Aug (E. J. Williams). Large Shearwaters (Great/Cory’s): one Fair Isle 14 Sep; 2N Troon, Ayr 9 Aug, 1N Troon 18 Aug, 2 Troon 19 Aug, 1N Troon 22 Aug, 1S Troon 12 Sep—the Ayr records were thought to be probably Cory’s rather than Great Shearwaters. Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus Very low nos 6 Apr-11 Dec. Max counts and passage: Shet, 21 individuals 21 Aug-29 Sep; Fair Isle 6 Apr, 15 Aug-5 Oct, max only 2 on 21 Sep; Ork, max 1SW/hr Papa Westray 21 Aug, 20 Sanday 17 Sep, last 1 Brough of Birsay 16 Nov; Suth, 3 Handa 18 Aug; Aber, max 15N Peterhead 16 Sep-last 1 on 11 Dec; Fife, max 4 Anstruther 3 Sep; E Loth, 35 Skateraw 5 Sep; Arg, 13 Mull-Tiree 6 Sep; Ayr. 1 Ballantrae 4 Jul, 4N Troon 21 Sept. Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Breeding: little data, Arg, birds ashore Mull of Kintyre Jul; Inv, poor season Canna due to rats—2% of sample sensus reared chicks. Counts and passage: Set, 2 Colgrave Sound 17 Apr; late bird Fair Isle 22 Oct, max 50 Rackwick Hoy 20 Jun; Aber/N Kinc, Ist N Peterhead 12 Apr, max 1039N in 2 hrs Girdle Ness 6 Sep; Fife, 1000 St Andrew’s Bay 27 Jul, late bird Kirkcaldy 7 Nov; Midl, present in Forth to mid-Dec; E Loth, 950 in 2'2 hrs Barns Ness 5 Sep; Arg, 2000 Garvellachs 9 Jul, 2000 Mull-Tiree 25 Aug, late bird Islay 4 Dec; Ayr, 2700S/hr Turnberry Point 20 Aug—2000 offshore till 30 Aug; Wig, 868S/hr Carsewall Point 24 Aug. mauretanicus: singles N Peterhead, Aber 20 Aug (M1), Barns Ness, E Loth 25 Sep (SdP). Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus Breeding: no change Shet; breeding proved Restens- geo, Fair Isle. Tape lured birds: Caith, 154 Wick 4 Jul-27 Aug; Suth, nos down by 50% on N coast (1 in 15 were controls), 4 Green Table 28 Aug; Ayr, 11 Portencross 23 Jul. Counts and passage: Shet, last 1 Whalsay 13 Oct; Ist Fair Isle 16 May—max night est 400 Gunnawark 4 Aug; Ork, 2 Harray L 22 Aug, last ones St Mary’s 11 Nov, Stromness 12 Nov; Suth, 100/hr Handa 20 Aug; I of May 25 Jul-28 Aug, max 6; Dunb, Gareloch 3 Aug; Ayr, very late birds Troon 20, 21 Nov; Wig, 10 Stranraer-Larne crossing 26 Jun. 13 Leach’s Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa Breeding: Shet, 10 ringed Ramna Stacks where population est 25-50 prs; Ork, 18 caught Sule Skerry 19-28 Jul—some had brood patches. Elsewhere: Shet, 2 caught Yell Jul; singles Fair Isle 31 Jul, 1, 21, 22 Aug; Caith, 1 dead Scrabster 12 Oct; E Loth, singles.Skateraw and Barns Ness 5 Sep; Ayr, 2N Troon 3 May, 2 Largs 3 May, singles Girvan 18 Nov—released Turnberry Point 20 Nov, Barassie 19 Nov, Troon 22 Nov. Gannet Sula bassana Breeding: Shet, 8794 nests Hermaness 20 May, 4863 nests Noss 26 May represents 80% count of colony; 172 nests at 8 sites Fair Isle; Ayr, 20,000 prs Ailsa Craig; Wig, 1900 birds (inc chicks) Scar Rocks 20 Jun. Counts and passage: Aber, max 1720N in 3 hrs Peterhead 10 Oct, 900N/hr Drums 12 Oct; W Loth, 200+ Hound Point 31 Aug; E Loth, 6000N in 6 hrs Dunbar 29 Mar; Borders, sick bird on cliffs St Abbs 20 Jun; Arg, 4400S in 2 hrs Mull of Kintyre 19 Jun; Dunb, 20 fishing Lomond 10-11 Jun,W Stir ad sleeping Conic Hill 29 Sep;Renf 7W Queeenside Muir 4 Sep. © Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Breeding: Shet, decline to 385 prs; Ork, 426-432 prs at 7 colonies; O Heb, 90 eggs taken from 70 nests at inland colony; 212+ nests at 4 colonies Forth; Ayr, 53 nests Portandea-Currarie Port held 83 young 19 Jul; Wig, 80+ nests Mochrum L-8 in trees, 42 nests at 3 other sites. Perhaps ave nos inland, 30 at Perth tree roost 13 Mar; Lan, 79 SCP 28 Mar; Kirk, 26 L Ken 13 Feb. Counts and passages: Shet, 246 Yell Sound 25 Oct; max 170 Fair Isle 19 Sep; Ross, 800 Beauly Firth 24 Nov; N Kinc, 160 Girdle Ness 17 Jan; Fife, 400 Tay Road Bridge 11 Jan, 450 Kirkcaldy 17 Jan; 490 Forth est Mar; Renf, 176 Clyde est 28 Mar; max 125 Ayr 26 Nov. Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Breeding: Shet, eggs seen 4 Apr-21 Aug; extremely pro- longed beeding season Fair Isle; Ork, 60 nests at 2 sites; Suth, 194 nests Handa; Inv, increase to 1507 prs Canna, 241 prs Rhum; 1600 prs bred I of May—992 pulli ringed; 855 nests at 6 sites Forth; Borders, continued rise to 65 prs St Abbs (60 in 1981, 54 in 1980); Wig, 100 prs Scar Rocks 20 Jun. Counts: Shet, 1093 Bluemull 24 Nov; max 1460 Fair Isle 23 Aug; Ork, 600 Burra Sound 15 Oct; Aber, max 3000N in 2 hrs 10 mins Peterhead 6 Feb; Fife, 3000W early morning Anstruther 17 Nov; 400 Craigleith, Forth 28 Dec. *Bittern Botaurus stellaris Four: Borders, 1 Mire L, St Abbs 20-21 Jan (PG); Arg, 1 Dervaig, Mull 14 Jan-22 Mar (CHB, RFC, RJW); 1 Tayinloan 4 Dec (PS); Kirk, 1 L Ken 12 Dec (JEB, JP). *American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus One Kilmalcolm, Renf from 4 Nov 1981 to 9 Jan (SBR, 1981). *Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Two records: adult Kirkwall, Ork 23 May and at Orphir 24 May (W. S. Hewison, Mr & Mrs R. Miller, Mr & Mrs I. J. Cromarty); immature near Annan, Dumf 31 Dec to 5 Apr 1983 (M. Bell, D. R. Moore, J. Thompson et al). Feral flock Edinburgh Zoo 10 adults and one immature 20 Sep, max 18 on 9 Dec. *Little Egret Egretta garzetta One Aberlady Bay, E Loth 14 May (P. R. Gordon). Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Breeding: Ork, 4 prs—only 1 pr successful; Caith, 2 sites—6 nests at 1 site; Fife, 106 prs at 10 colonies (11% down on 1981. mean brood size 2.3); E Loth, 15 nests at 2 colonies; Borders, several new heronries established; Dunb/W Stir, decrease to 37 nests L Lomond—heavy chick mortality; Arran, no change—16 nests; Ayr, 61 nests. Counts: Shet, max 17 Trondavoe 7 Feb; max 12 Fair Isle 20, 22 Sep; Ork, 17 Outer Holm, Stromness 19 Dec; Aber, 30 Ythan 26 Aug; Angus, 27 Lurgies 16 Jul; Midl, max 17 Gladhouse 23 Oct Dumb 18 L Long 27 Jan Rent 18 Woodhall 10 Jan Ayr 22Bogside 16 Sep. *Purple Heron Ardea purpurea Two: immature Aberlady Bay, E Loth 6 Apr (P. R. Gordon); adult Widewall Bay, S Ronaldsay, Ork 2-5 Aug (C. J. Booth, Mrs R. McCutcheon et al). *White Stork Ciconia ciconia Two: One flying NE Rora, Aber 16 Apr (Mrs J. D. Breward); one following plough Port of Menteith, Perth 31 May, then flying W (per J. Mitchell), half hour later soaring over Drymen, W. Stir (J. B. Pendlebury). ‘{Flamingo Phoenicopterus sp Aber, 1 chilensis Strathbeg-Ythan all year; Perth, 1S Inver- gowrie 18 Aug; Fife, 1 Eden est-St Andrew’s 1-2 Dec; Ayr/Arran, 1 chilensis Tarbolton 4 Sep, on Arran 20-21 Oct, Maidens 3 Dec; Kirk, 1 L Ken 2 Jun. Mute Swan | Cygnus olor Breeding: O Heb, 119 prs reared 274 young—30% increase on 1981; Loth, 26 prs reared 75 young; Borders, 11 prs reared 41 young; Renf, 14 prs reared 14 23 young; poor success rate Ayr, Kirk. Counts: Shet, 1 Whiteness 9 Jan-end Feb, 1 Spiggie 3 Apr; Ork, peaks 183 L of Harray 13 Dec, 175 Lof Stenness 11 Jan; O Heb, 962 in autumn count; Aber, 309 Strathbeg 13 Sep; Angus, 245 Montrose 17 Oct; Wig, colour-ringed O Heb bird L Ryan 11 Nov. Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus Winter-spring: Dumf, 65 Caerlaverock Jan-Feb; Kirk, 50 Islesteps 24 Feb; Ayr, 4 Maybole 4-5 Jan; Glas, 4 Summerston 1 Jan; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 4 Jan; E Loth, 1 Tyninghame 12 Mar-17 Apr. Autumn: Dumf, Ist back Caerlaverock 25 Oct, 52 in Dec; Lan, 4 Carnbroe 3 Nov; Renf, max 4 Inchinnan 11 Dec; Borders, 1 St Abbs 3-10 Dec; Kinr, 3 L Leven 25 Oct; Perth, 2 Madderty 25 Nov, 4 Thornhill 19 Dec. Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus 2 prs from feral population built nests Endrick Mouth, Dunb 23 May, pr with 2 young seen 28 Aug. No reports in wild but summering birds Shet (4), Caith, Ross, Banff, Aber (4), Perth (3), Fife, E Loth (2), Kirk (5). Winter-spring: Shet, max 36 Spiggie 23 Jan, peak 568 Mar; O Heb, 262 L Hallan, S Uist 31 Mar; Caith, 121 Westfield 7 Feb, 3 Thurso 13 May; Aber, max 89 Strathbeg 23 Feb; Renf, 120 Inchinnan 2-3 Mar; Kirk, 101 Greenlaw 18 Jan, passage N Minnoch Valley 21 Apr. Autumn: national sample (2153) gave 18.8% juveniles. Shet, 486 on 7 Nov was highest ever; S Fair Isle 15 Sept; Ork, peak 1813 Nov; Caith, 212 Scrabster 14 Nov, 204 Hestigrew 14 Nov, 250 Halkirk 23 Nov; Ross, 143 Easter Lovat 26 Oct; Inv, 135 Insh Dec; Aber, 10 Strathbeg 22 Sep, 633 on 14 Nov; Kinr, 194 L Leven 25 Oct; arrival iti S from 9 Oct, Borders, 129 Nisbet 26 Dec; Renf, 236 Stanely Res 9 Dec; Dumf, 150 Caer!iverock 15 Dec. Bean Goose Anser fabalis Winter: Kirk, 30 Gelston 6, 20 Jan, 2 Dalry 12 Jan, 4 L Ken 6 Feb; Ayr, 8 Irvine 10 Jan, 2 New Cumnock 26 Jan; Lan, 14 Libberton 27 Feb; Aber, 1 Rattray 27 Mar; E Ross, 21 Kilcoy 30 Jan, 16 Killearnan 9 Feb, 2 Arpafeelie 28 Mar, 4 Udale Bay 14 Apr; Caith, 1 Scarmclate 19 Mar; O Heb, remnant of 1981 flock stayed N Uist till Jan; Ork, 8 Holm 18 Mar; Shet, 4 Yell 14 Feb, 2 Haroldswick 26 Apr—1 till 4 May, 4 Uyea- sound 30 May. Summer record of 2 Papa Westray, Ork 13 Jun is very unusual. Autumn: low nos, Shet, 1 Unst 22 Sep, 2 L of Brow 3 Oct; only 1 Fair Isle 2 Oct; Aber, 2 Meikle 7 Nov; W Stir, 31 Carron Valley 26 Sep, 52 on 17 Oct; Kirk, 1 L Ken 9 Nov. Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Winter-spring: high nos in S returned N after severe weather, Dumf, 10,000 late Feb-early Mar; Kirk,3500 Creetown Merse 28 Feb; Kirk/Ayr, 1OOON Upper Minnoch Valley 25-27 Jan; Borders, max 6063 Westwater 21 Feb; E Loth, 2205 Aberlady 23 Jan; Midl, 3800 Gladhouse 20 Mar, last 1 on 16 May; Perth, 3000 Thornhill 4 Apr; Angus, 1340 Montrose 15 Apr; Aber, max 9600 Ythan 3 Apr, last 80 on 15 May; E Ross, 2000 Nigg 19 Mar, 6000 Beauly Firth 1 May; Suth, 1794 over Handa 19 Apr-8 May. Summer: 3 Fair Isle 6 Jun; Aber (4); W Loth (4), singles Suth, E Ross, Angus, Borders. Autumn national count 13-14 Nov 69000 (UK total 89000) is similar to 1981; peak areas Perth/Kinr 16050, Angus 11150, Aber 12700 and Borders 10750; sample (5,000) gave 16.1% young and young mean brood size of 2.1. Arrivals and other counts: Shet, 3 Hillwell 11 Sep, peak 500 Dunrossness 25 Sep; 160 Fair Isle 18 Sep; Ork. max 115 Stenness 18 Sep; Aber, 250 Strathbeg 10 Sep, 6850 on 4 Oct; Perth, Ist on 6 Sep, 20-25,000 at main roost 22 Sep; Angus, 6 Balgavies 12 Sep; Fife/Kinr, 12,000 L Leven 19 Oct, 5500 Cameron Res 23 Oct; Midl, Ist on 6 Sep, max 13,700 Gladhouse 24 Oct; E Loth, 6000 Aberlady 15 Oct; Borders, Ist 2 West water 5 Sep, 10680 on 16 Oct; Lan, 4000 Carmichael 27 Dec. White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Winter-spring: Wig, 380+ West Freugh 10 Jan; Kirk, 211 L Ken 22 Mar, last 1 on 23 Apr; Dunb, 85 Endrick Mouth 6 Feb; small nos in E, Caith, 170 Westfield Jan-Feb; O Heb, 120 S Uist 6 Jan; Ork, 52 Holm 28 Mar; Shet, 3 Spiggie 6 May. Autumn: national count gave a Scottish population of 7259 (50% of world population); Shet, singles Spiggie 23 Oct, Unst 5 Nov; singles Fair Isle 9 Oct, 15-16 Nov; Ork, 40S Ronaldsay 6 Oct, 44 Sandwick 9 Dec; O Heb, 22 Lewis mid-Dec; Caith, 50S Noss Head 25 Sep, 224 Westfield 13 Nov; Ross, 42 L Eye 9 Dec; Arg, 1365 mainland area Nov, 717 Coll and Tiree Nov, 3250 (12.9% juvs) Islay Nov; Dunb, 118 Endrick Mouth 14 Nov; Kirk, Ist 37 L Ken 7 Oct, max 320 0n 5 Dec; Wig, 280 West Freugh 14 Nov. European birds: Dumf, 4 Caerlaverock 4 Dec; Caith, 5 Hestigrew 14 Nov; 1 Fair Isle 27 Nov; Shet, 1 Whalsay 29 Dec. 1S Greylag Goose Anser anser Breeding: O Heb, 235 prs Uists and Benbecula; Caith, broods seen on 2 lochs; Suth, 7 prs noted at 3 sites. Feral birds: Perth, 104 birds 9 Aug; Angus, small nos; Midl, further expansion; pair bred W Loth; Inv, 2 prs bred Rhum; W Stir, pair reared 2 young L Lomond; usual nos in SW. Winter-spring: Ork, peak 350 Sandwick 27 Feb; Caith, 1500 L Calder-L Heilen Jan-Apr; Suth, passage of 2114 Handa Apr; E Ross, 1000 Kilcoy 14 Apr, 5000 L Eye 15 Apr; Moray, 2800 Burgie 20 Feb; Aber, 13,350 in spring count 18-22 Mar, last 100 Ythan 9.May; Fife, 2000 St Monance 9 Jan; E Loth, 1200 Tyning- hame 14 Jan; Renf, 740 West Ferry 10 Jan; Ayr, 2400 Girvan 14 Jan in hard weather, last 31N Prestwick 5 May; Kirk, 2070 in spring count 21 Mar; Wig, 3180 om 21 Mar. Autumn national count 13-14 Nov 76000 (UK total 80000) is well down on recent years; peak areas Ross 8510, Aber 26440, Perth/Kinr 16900. Sample (3500) gave 30.1% young and a mean brood size of 2.6. Counts and passage: Shet, max 150 Nesting 25 Sep; 40 Fair Isle 18 Sep, heavy passage 1620 between 8-12 Oct; Ork, Ist Sanday 29 Aug, in census of 13-14 Nov; Caith, 3000 L Scarmclate 17 Oct; Suth, 1600 L Fleet 14 Nov; E Ross, 10,000 L Eye 24 Oct, 3514 Beauly Firth 14 Nov; Aber, max 9600 Strathbeg 14 Nov, 9500 Davan 14 Nov, 11,900 Haddo 11 Dec; Angus, 1350 Montrose 12 Dec; Kinr, 2500 L Leven 14 Nov; Midl, 2000 Harburnhead 13 Dec; Borders, 4100 Hoselaw 17 Oct; Arg, 64 Islay winter is further decline; Dunb, 2000 Endrick Mouth 26-28 Nov; Lan, 1000 Carmichael 27 Dec; Wig, 2570 West Freugh 27 Dec; Kirk, 1400 Ken-Dee Valley 28 Dec; Dumf, 1400 Caer laverock 13 Dec. tBar-headed Goose Anser indicus Aber, 1 Meikle 25 Apr—2 on 12 Oct, 2 Strathbeg 16 Jun, 1 Nov, 1 Longside 19 Nov; Angus, 5 Lintrathen 12-13 Jun. *Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Ross, ad Greater L Eye 24 Oct, 1 Tarradale 12 Jun;_ Aber, 3 Davan 30 Oct-3 Nov, singles Wells of Ythan 30 Oct, Strathbeg 21 Nov, Auchmacoy 11 Dec, 2 Gight 15 Dec; Angus, 1-Montrose 14 Apr; Kinr, singles L Leven Aug, Oct; Perth, 2 Thornhill 24-28 Feb, singles Tibbermore 16 Oct, Errol early Nov; Ayr. 4N Dunure 21 Jun; Kirk, 17 Meikle Ross 20 Sep. Canada Gaose Branta canadensis Breeding: Perth, 2-300 in resident population; Renf, poor season, 45 Barcraigs 13 Dec, no change elsewhere. English moult migration: Inv/Ross, Ist Beauly Firth 28 May, max 817 on 17 Aug, last 1 on 15 Sep. Counts and migration: Shet, S Foula 8 Jan; Ork, max 7 South Ronaldsay 19 Jun, 5 Shapinsay Aug-mid-Dec; O Heb, 1 Uists Jul; Caith, 1 Carsgoe 26 Apr; Inv, 19 L Ashie moulting from 5 Jul, 64 Insh 13 Aug; Aber, 150 Ellon 25 Aug; Kinr, 42 L Leven Jun-Nov; 11 I of May 28 May; Midl, 25E Cobbin- shaw 17 Apr; E Loth, passage’ early Jun-end Sep, max 23 Scoughall 6 Jun; Borders, 39 Selkirk 11 Jun; Ayr, 20 Girvan 1-12 Jan; Kirk, 16 L Ken Aug. 1 Mire L, St Abbs, Borders 14 Oct may have been hutchinsii; also 1 very small bird L Ken, Kirk 8 Apr. Barnacle Goose ' Branta leucopsis Solway flock; Ist 28 Caerlaverock 22 Sep, Oct count produced 8500 with 11.5% juvs, Islay flock; 17,300 in Mar; Nov count produced 12,800 with 6% juvs. Elsewhere: Arg, 400 Treshnish 12 Apr, 1 on 8 Jun; Inv, 534 Eilean Hoan 11 Feb, 734 on 30 Oct, 1 Canna 11 Jul; Ork, 387 South Walls 29 Mar, 500 Scapa Flow 25 Oct. Passage: Shet, 1680 reported from 4 localities 25 Sep; 350 Fair Isle 25 Sep; Ork, 10 Scapa | Flow 1 May; Suth, 14 Handa 3 May; Moray, 112W Culbin 25 Sep; Aber, 2 summered | Strathbeg, max 247 Strathbeg-Ythan 27 Sep; Angus, 53S Westhaven 27 Sep; Perth, 33 Tibbermore 24 Oct; Fife, 335S/hr Fife Ness 25 Sep; 41 of May 21 Sep; Midl, 140W Mussel- burgh 26 Sep; Borders, 40 West Water 12 Oct; Lan, 3 Glengavel 12-18 May, 85 Strathaven | 26 Sep; Ayr, 45SE New Cumnock 26 Sep; Wig, 29E L Ryan 26 Sep. | Brent Goose Branta bernicla D=dark-bellied B b bernicla, P=pale-bellied B b hrota. Peak | counts and migration: Shet, 1D Skerries 10-16 Nov; Fair Isle, 1P on 22 Jan, 3P from 19 Sep-S__| Oct; Ork, 9 North L Sanday 2 Oct, 5 North Ronaldsay 24-26 Oct; O Heb, 1D Lewis mid-Dec- end year; Caith, 2P Sandside Bay 29 Sep; E Ross, 2 Minlochy Mains 20 Jan; Moray, 2 Findhorn mid-Jan; 2 Banff 13 Feb; Aber, 3D Peterhead 23 Jan, 25P S Peterhead 6 Nov; Angus, 2P Forfar L 28-29 Nov; Fife, 4P St Andrew’s 9 Jan; Midl, 3P Musselburgh 18-24 | Sep, 1D on 7-17 Nov; E Loth, 31 Tyninghame 5 Jan; Borders, 30S Burnmouth 10 Jan, 22 St Abbs 3 Dec; Renf, 1 West Ferry 14 Jan; Wig, 2P L Ryan 4 Apr, 2 on 6 Dec; Kirk, 3D Mid Kelton 24-27 Feb, 1P L Ken 11-14 Dec; Dumf, 1P Caerlaverock 14 Jan, 31 Dec. 16 eee | Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Breeding: Shet, pr B/6 Papa Stour 4 Jul; Aber, 53 prs Ythan; Angus, 3 prs bred, 4 young fledged Forfar L; pair B/S lof May 17 Jun; W Loth, 60ads with 50 young Dalmeny 21 Jun; Arran, 10 prs, 56 young hatched, 28 fledged; Ayr, 31 young Dipple 9 Jun. Counts and migration: Shet, 23 Dunrossness 3 May; Ork, 43 Cumminess 13 Mar; Suth, 124 L Fleet 28 Feb; E Ross, 243 Tain 10 Jan, 187 Munlochy Bay 13 Mar; Angus, 400 Montrose 12 Dec; Fife, 1974 Eden est 21 Feb; E Loth, 169 Aberlady 11 Jan; Arg, 238 L Gruinart, Islay 2 Apr; Renf, 543 Clyde est 28 Mar, but only 10 on 12 Dec; Lan, SE Gadloch 13 Jul, S Hamilton 8 Nov; Dunb, 6 Fannyside 9 May; Ayr, 140 Hunterston 1 Jan; Kirk, 162 Southerness 7 Feb. Mandarin Ax galericulata Perth, max counts 46 on 22 Feb, 48 on 12 Dec; Borders, Q shot Greenlaw early Oct. Wigeon Ana penelope Breeding: Ork, 2 broods seen—very little data; Aber, 6 broods Davan—poor success due to pike predation; Angus, 12 prs—no breeding Kinnordy; Kinr, 35 prs bred L Leven; Kirk, successful nest L Ken may have involved captive birds. Counts and migration: Shet, max 50 Scatness 12 Oct; 35 Fair Isle 3 Sep; Ork, 750 Tankerness 24 Jan, 595 L of Boardhouse 13 Dec; Caith, 1273 L Watten 17 Jan; Suth, 2800 L Fleet 29 Nov; Inv/E Ross, 5060 S Dornoch Firth 14 Nov. 4000 Inverness 14 Nov, 5000 Munlochy Bay 14 Nov, 5000 Udale Bay 14 Nov, 4200 Nigg 29 Nov; Aber, 660 Slains 14 Feb; Angus 3860 Montrose 12 Dec; Fife, 1742 Eden est 16 Jan; W Loth, 700 Blackness 13 Nov; E Loth, 786 Tyninghame 13 Jan; Arg, 379 Mull 1S Oct—highest ever count; Ayr, 650 Bogside 10 Jan; Wig, 2500 L Ryan-Soulseat L 12 Dec; Dumf, 1124 Caerlaverock 12 Dec. *American Wigeon Anas americana One drake Birsay Bay, Ork 3 May (D. Lea et al). Gadwall Anas strepera Breeding: O Heb, 3-5 prs reared 15 young Balranald, N Uist, pr bred Benbecula; Angus, 5 prs bred, 10 young fledged Kinnordy; Perth, fewer recorded— bred Dunalastair Res—prs at 2 other sites; Kinr, 40 prs bred L Leven. Peak counts: Shet, max 2 Hillwell 8-15 May, 2 Clickimin 28-29 Aug; Ork, 5 North Ronaldsay 4 Nov, 26 Dec; E Ross, pr Tarradale 3 Jun, pr L Eye 20 Sep; Aber, 1 Ladymire 18 Dec; Kinr/Fife, 169 L Leven 3 Oct, 9 Morton L 13 Nov; Lan, 6 Ryeflat 4-20 Nov; Ayr, 4 New Cumnock 2 Apr. Teal Anascrecca Breeding: Shet, little data—eggs noted Dunrossness 24 May; Angus, 12 prs bred Kinnordy; Inv, 1 + pr bred Rhum. Counts and passage: Shet, max 50 Scatness 12 Oct; main passage Fair Isle 3-26 Sep, max 40 On 3 Sep; Ork, 341 North Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Suth, 300 L Fleet 19 Dec; Ross/Inv, 721 Torrin 10 Jan, 1000 Kilmuir 31 Jan, 1000+ Munlochy Bay 14 Nov; Aber, 500 Strathbeg 2 Feb; Angus, 555 Montrose 12 Dec; Fife/Kinr, 860 L Leven 3 Oct, 1000 Morton L 27 Nov; Borders, 320 West Water 7 Nov; W Stir, 587 Carron Valley Res 14 Feb, 1735 on 17 Oct; Ayr, 650 Bogside 9 Jan; Kirk, 500 L Ken 3 Sep; Dumf, 1000 Caerlaverock 2-6 Nov. Green-winged Teal carolinensis: drakes at Inverness 29 Dec 1981 to 27 Feb (R. H. Dennis et al), Ross, Dalmore/Alness 17 Dec 1981 to 13 Feb (C. McCarty, D. M. Pullan); O. Heb, singles Balranald 5 May and Benbecula 16 June (K. Fairclough et al)§. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Breeding: Shet, lst young Walls 8 May; Ork, lst young St Ola and Evie 29 Apr; Angus, 50 prs reared 80 young Kinnordy; Kinr, 50 prs bred L Leven; Arran, 14 prs hatched 51 young—many died; Ayr, good season. Counts: Ork, max 407 North Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Caith, 1350 L Watten 17 Jan; nos down Moray, max 300 L Spynie 13 Dec; Aber, 2450 Strathbeg 31 Dec; Angus, 1500 Lintrathen 2 Feb; Kinr, 2200 L Leven 3 Oct; 769 Forth est Oct; W Loth, 700 Linlithgow 17 Oct; Borders, 660 Hoselaw 12 Sep; W Stir, 2229 Carron Valley Res 31 Oct; Renf, 600 Barr L 31 Jul; Lan, 800 SCP 17 Jan; Ayr, 608 Barassie 27 Nov; Kirk, 420 L Ken 18 Oct. Hybrid < Black Duck Ryeflat, Lan 20-28 Nov. *Black Duck Anas rubripes Drake at North Kessock, Ross and South Kessock, Inv from 11 Oct 1981 to 2 March (R. A. Broad, R. H. Dennis et a/), latterly paired with Q Mallard; also returned 7-12 August (D. M. Pullan). 17 Pintail Anas acuta Breeding: Ork, bred at 3 sites West Mainland and Stronsay—3 broods seen at former; Caith, 2 prs bred at 2 sites—B/3 at one site Jun; Wig, 3 prs probably bred at 1 site. Counts and passage: Shet, max 13 Burra 18 Sep; 13 Fair Isle 3 Sep; Ork, 26 North L Sanday 8 Feb; Inv/Ross, 600 Nig 24 Jan, 93 Redcastle 13 Feb; Angus, 50 Montrose 7 Mar; Kinr, 40 L Leven 3 Oct; Midl, 16 Musselburgh 6 Oct; Renf, 15 West Ferry 18 Dec; Kirk, 400 Drumburn 12 Jan, 270 L Ken 7 Oct. *Garganey Anas querquedula A poor year—11 in spring 29 Mar-6 Jun; Kirk, L Ken 7 May; Dunb, © Twechar 29-30 Mar, GO’ Endrick Mouth 8-11 May; E Loth, 1 Drem 18 May; 1 Strathbeg 5-6 May: Caith, pr L of Mey 25 May; O Heb, pr Balranald, N Uist May; Shet, Hillwell 15-18 May, & Lerwick 6 Jun. Autumn: E Loth, 4 Dunbar 14-20 Sep; Lan, & SCP 31 Oct; Dumf, Q Caerlaverock 13 Sep. *Blue-winged Teal Anas discors Two: Shet, imm male Skerries 12-20 Sep (D. M. Pullan, E. Tait et al); fe,ale Balranald, O Heb 19 Sep (K. Fairclough)§. Shoveler Anas clypeata Breeding. Shet, up to 4 prs reared 20 at 2 sites; Ork, only single pairs at 2 sites confirmed; Angus, 26 prs bred, 25 young fledged Kinnordy; Kinr, 12 prs bred L Leven; Renf, 2 broods noted Lochwinnoch; Glas, 3 broods Possil Marsh; Ayr, 3 prs reared 9 young New Cumnock; Kirk, good season L Ken. Also bred Perth. Counts: Shet, 14 Mar-7 Nov; Ork, 17 North Ronaldsay 20 Oct; Aber, max 13 Cotehill 3 Oct; Angus, 110 Kinnordy Aug; Perth, 40 Stormont L 28 Oct; Kinr, 60 L Leven 3 Oct; Borders, 123 Hule Moss 10 Oct; Arg, 19 L Indaal, Islay 17 Jan; Dunb, 100 Endrick Mouth late Oct-early Nov; Renf, 32 Ball L 28 Jul; Lan, 27 Woodend L 24 Sep; Kirk, 53 Carlingwark L 19 Sep. Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Three: CO Elgin, Moray 10-21 Mar (LJ); Q Strathbeg, Aber 31 Oct, 12 Nov (JD); 9 Auchenreoch L, Kirk 28 Nov-11 DEC (PTB et al). Pochard Aythya ferina Breeding. Angus, 4 prs bred unsuccessfully Kinnordy; bred Perth; Renf, 1 brood Lochwinnoch. Counts: Shet, 57 Spiggie 12 Nov; Ork, 3702 L of Harray 23 Nov was exceptional; Caith, 241 L Watten 17 Oct; Ross, 150 L Eye 24 Oct; Aber, 800 Strathbeg 15 Nov; Fife, 700 Lochore 22 Oct; Kinr, 1160 L Leven 14 Nov; Midl, further decline Duddingston, max only 75 on 31 Jan, 488 Wardie-Seafield 10 Jan; W Stir, 307 Carron Valley Res 31 Oct; Glas, 400 Richmond Park, R Clyde 16 Jan; Dumf, 150 Lochmaben 21 Dec. *Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris Seven: Shet, Q L of Brow 21-25 Oct (J. N. Dymond); O Heb, & L Grunivat, Lewis 9 May (W. A. J. Cunningham, I. H. Leach); Inv, usual C Insh 25 Feb-16 March (R. Leavett et al); Midl, O Duddingston 24 Mar (J. Chester); Arg, OL Leathen 6-14 Mar (D. Thorogood, M. J. P. Gregory), C& L Ba, Mull 15-17 May (R. F. Coomber, the late P. J. Tullett, S$. Woolfall); Kirk, op R Dee/L Ken 15 Jan-25 Mar (L. A. Urquhart et al). *Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca CO Possil Marsh, Glasgow 21 Dec (G. J. Brock). Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Breeding: Shet, bred at 3 sites; Aber, very few young Skene; Angus, 30 prs reared 25-30 young Kinnordy; Kinr, 550 prs bred L Leven; Midl, 23 broods reported; Renf, 7 prs hatched 44. young Kilmacolm; Kirk, good season. Counts: Shet, 100 Spiggie 10 Nov; Ork, 2279 L of Harray 23 Nov; Caith 737 L Watten 13 Sep; 1200 Inverness 9 Jan; Aber, 1950 Strathbeg 15 Nov; Angus, 600 Stannergate 6 Jan; Kinr, 3450 L Leven 3 Oct; Midl, 610 Leith-Seafield Jan; W Loth, 410 Linlithgow Oct; Dunb, 40 Milngavie Res gays Renf, 740 Lochwinnoch 28 Jul; Lan, 366 SCP 17 Jan; Ayr, 250 Prestwick-Doonfoot an. Scaup Aythya marila Summer records: Suth (6), Midl (8), Lan (1). Counts: Ork, 78 L of Harray 16 Mar; Ross, 418 Edderton 31 Jan; Aber, 1 Ythan 25 Jul; Angus, pair Lintrathen 9 May; Fife, 2680 Largo Bay 14 Jan; Midl, 114 Granton-Joppa 10 Jan; W Loth, 150 Black- ness 3 Oct; Arg, 1200 L Indaal, Islay 3 Nov; Renf, 215 Langbank 7 Feb; Ayr, 168 Prestwick 15 Feb; Wig, 150 L Ryan 14 Feb; 12 Dec; Kirk, 500 Southerness 12 Jan. Eider Somateria mollissima Breeding: Shet, nest with full clutch 22 Apr, chicks by 12 May; late but a successful season Fair Isle; Aber, 2100 prs Ythan, mean clutch size 4.5 and 71% hatching success, high fledging success—1400 survived due to fine weather in Jun; 154 nests located I of May; Forth Is, 66 nests Craigleith 15 May, 85 nests Fidra 19 May, 24 nests 18 | | TO i | with 28 young Inchkeith 30 May, 42 nests Inchmickery; E Loth, 80 nests Aberlady, poor _ success; Renf, brood Langbank 28 Jul; Arran, 37 prs reared 80 young. Counts: Shet, further drop in nos, 574 Bluemull/Colgrave 24 Nov (5785 on 18 Nov 1976); 1120 Fair Isle 17 Nov; Suth,2000+ L Fleet 17 Oct; Aber, 6000 Ythan early May, 9500 Blackdog 7 Aug; Angus/ Fife, 8000 Tay est 27 Feb, 1000 Methil 7 Mar, 1108 Montrose 14 Noy; Loth, 3168 Forth est Mar; Renf, 2600 Port Glasgow 3 Nov; Ayr, 1382 Turnberry-Girvan 14 Aug; Wig, 550 L Ryan 20 Nov. *King Eider Somateria spectabilis Shet, @ Sullom Voe Jan -29 Mar (J.D. Okill), Q@ Lerwick 30 Jan-8 Apr (D. Coutts et a/) imm CO Voe 17-18 Apr (P.J. Ewins, M. Heubeck), oO Unst 24 Nov (M. Heubeck, R. J. Tulloch); Ork, 9 Kirkwall 10 Dec into 1983 (E. R. Meek et al); Caith, 2 Sinclair’s Bay 28 Feb§ (K. W. Banks, H. Clark); Suth, at least 1 CO’ Golspie—Embo area throughout year, 2 O' C'on 21-27 March (A. R. Mainwood et al); Aber, GC Ythan- Blackdog 23 Apr-11 July (H. Olsthoorn et a/); Dunb/Renf, usual & Ardmore Point 29 Aug (G. J. Brock), Port Glasgow 28 Oct-22 Nov (S. Benn, B. C. Forrester et al). *Steller’s Eider Polysticta stelleri Two: usual O summered Ork, Papa Westray 30 Apr to 1 July, displaying to Eiders (J. B. Ribbands, J. Rendall): G all year Ardvule, S Uist, O : Heb—1ith year (per W. A. J. Cunningham et al). Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Counts: Shet, Ist 3 returned Sumburgh 23 Jul, 570 Bluemull 24 Oct; Ork, 600 Aikerness 15 Jan; Suth/Ross/Moray, ca 20000 wintered Moray Firth 1981/82 and 14000 in 1982/83; Inv, 9 Insh 6 Dec; Aber, 700 Menie-Ythan 12 May; Fife, 600 Kinshaldy 23 Oct; Midl, 135 Musselburgh 2 Jan; E Loth, 261 Gosford 9 Jan; Borders, 1 St Abbs 12 Sep; Renf, 5 Castle Semple L 11-15 Dec; low nos in SW, 1 L Arthur, Kirk, was only country record. Summer record: Ork (1). Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Breeding: Shet, 30 CO and 2 Q 9 at 1 site, breeding not recorded; Caith, inadequate coverage, B/3 and B/S seen; Ross/Inv, 9-22+prs nested at | 9 lochs, some broods recorded;Perth, possibly bred, 5 0 GO and 6 OQ at 1 site 31 May; © with 2 young Inner Heb site 9 Aug; Dunb/W Stir, 32 prs L Lomond, no breeding recorded. Counts: Ork, 12 Echnaloch Bay 3 May; Caith, 50 Sinclair’s Bay 27 Mar; Suth, 1100 Dornoch 3 Oct; Moray, 3000 Spey Bay 26 Dec; Aber, 400 Blackdog 6 Jul; Angus, 300 Lunan Bay 12 Jul; Fife, 2310 St Andrew’s Bay 15 Feb; W Loth, 160 Hound Point 6 Nov; E Loth, 1-2000 Aberlady Apr-May; Borders, 103. St Abbs 28 Jul; W Stir, 67 Kilsyth 6 Nov; Ayr, 50 Troon 10 Jan; Kirk, 250-300 Fleet est 27 Nov. *Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata Suth, Dornoch-Embo 15 Jan-13 Apr (C. McCarty, J. Barrett et al); Moray, Spey Bay, 2-4 O C'17 Oct-into 1983 (N. Elkins, R. H. Dennis, J. Barrett); E Loth, pr Gullane Point 13-14 Apr (G. Anderson, P. R. Gordon, K. A. & D. M. Hudson); Arg, oo L Indaal, Islay 4 Oct (P. M. Ellis). Velvet Scoter' Melanitta fusca Counts: Ork, 39 North and East Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Caith, 30 Sinclair’s Bay 6 Mar; Suth, 200 Embo 14 Mar, 11 Dec, Moray, 1200 Spey Bay 26 Dec; Aber, 90 Blackdog 25 Jul; Fife, o Kilconquhar L 27 Mar, 200 Largo Bay 12 Apr; low nos Forth; Midl, Musselburgh 7 Feb; E Loth, 60 Aberlady-Gullane 11 Sep; Dunb, 3 Ardmore 10 Oct. Summer record: Ork (6). Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Breeding: 9 Q laid eggs in 44 nests (2 natural holes, 27 clutches incubated, 26 successful 9 Q hatched at least 220 young, survival of ducklings again good. Summering birds Ork to Kirk, but no other proof of breeding. Counts: Shet, 185 Spiggie 14 Nov; Ork, 181 Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Caith, 117 Wick 9 Jan; 400 Inverness 9 Jan; Moray, 400 Findhorn 4 Apr;. Aber, 432 Don 21 Jan, passage Strathbeg—34 on 6 Aug, 360 on 15 Nov; Angus, 500 Dighty 20 Mar; Fife, 650 Largo Bay 12 Jan, 410 Kirkcaldy 13 Jan; Loth, 475 Forth est Feb, 360 Dec; Arg, 150 Mull late Jan; Dunb/Renf, 535 Clyde est 28 Mar; 111 Lochwinnoch 27 Nov; Ayr, 420 Prestwick-Doonfoot 5 Jan; Kirk, 82 L Ken 15 Feb. *Smew Mergus albellus Redheads unless stated, about 25 winter-spring: Ork, L of Harray 7-8 Mar, L of Climly 2 Apr; CG Inverness 9 Jan, also at Longman 29 Jan-1 Mar; Moray, Speymouth 20-23 Feb; Aber/N Kinc, & Strathbeg Jan-18 Mar, Strathbeg 21 Feb-5 Mar, 19 Girdle Ness 22 Jan, Davan 6 Feb-16Apr, Ythan 13 Feb, Meikle 13 Mar; Angus, Monikie 10-20 Mar; Perth, Carsebreck 13 Mar; W Loth, Linlithgow 6-14 Feb; Borders, Kelso 31 Jan, Faughill 17 Feb, 14 Mar; W Stir, pair R Endrick 19 Mar, & till4 May; Renf, O Langbank 10 Jan; Ayr, 3 Hunterston 16 Jan, Martnaham L 31 Jan-8 Apr, Irvine 20 Feb; Wig, Moor of Genoch 13 Feb, 18 Mar; Kirk, L Ken 29 Jan, 6 Feb. Autumn, about 19 records: Shet, Dunrossness 14 Nov; Ork, L of Skaill 26 Nov, 4 Dec, Harray 13 Dec; Inv, L Flemington 17 Oct; Aber, Strathbeg 28-29 Dec, Davan 5 Dec-end year; Angus, &' Monikie 30 Oct, Monikie 17 Nov-12 Dec; Fife, Carriston Res 24 Oct, Kirkcaldy 12 Dec; Arg, Mull 14 Dec-end year; Dunb, GO L Lomond 31 Dec; Renf, Langbank 5 Aug-24 Oct, o’ on 27 Nov; Lan, Thankerton 11 Dec; Ayr, Martnaham L 4 Dec-end year; Kirk, L Ken 7 Noy-13 Dec, 2 On 28 Nov; Dumf, Lochmaben 9 Nov-21 Dec. Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Breeding: Shet, widespread with good broods; Ork, 1st young 6 Jul, Q with 30 young Echnaloch 12 Jul; Perth, 9 with 37 young Kinclaven 13 Aug; continued small nos inland in SW and Borders. Counts: Shet, 100 Sullom Voe 25 Oct; Ork, 192 Scapa Flow 11 Jan; Suth, 280 L Fleet 30 Oct; Ross/Inv, 395 Beauly Firth 24 Nov; Aber, 196 Forvie 25 Jul;.Angus, 127 Stannergate 17 Jan; Fife, 125 Leven 22 Sep, 865 Kinshaldy 23 Oct; Loth, 855 Forth est Nov; Arg, 224 Sound of Mull 13 Aug; Dumb/ Renf, 100 Clyde est 28 Mar; Arran, 81 Machrie 8 Jul; Ayr, only 43 Turnberry Bay 30 Aug; Wig, 190 Luce Bay 3 Sep; 220 L Ryan 26 Sep. Goosander Mergus merganser Breeding: successful breeding noted Aber, Borders, Kirk. Counts: Caith, 7 Strathmore 24 Jan; Suth, 54 Kyle of Sutherland 12 Nov; Ross/Inv, 600 Beauly Firth 6 Jan, 1039 on 24 Nov; Moray, 45 Speymouth 19 Aug; Aber, 143 Skene 30 Jan; Kinr, 64 L Leven 22 Feb; Midl, 31 Moorfoot Resrs 14 Frb; E Loth, 32 Whiteadder 28 Aug; Borders, 114 Hoselaw 25 Apr; Renf, 48 Harelaw-Black L 5 Dec; Ayr, 31 Penwhapple 12 Dec; Kirk, 121 L Ken 21 Aug, 11 Sep; Dumf, 165 Lochmaben 7 Mar. *Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Breeding: Pair Kinnordy, Angus early Apr, 2nd pr from 16 May, 3 broods hatched but no-young survived due to pike predation. Elsewhere: 2 2 9 Nairn 25 Sep (PC); Perth, 8 Blairgowrie 7 Nov (EDH, SRH); Lan, 9 /imm Woodend L 30 Nov-6 Dec (JND). Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus Shet, singles Unst 25 May, West Burra 26 Jun; Fair Isle 7 Jun and 3-5 Jul (latter died of Fulmar oiling); Ork, Finstown 29 Sep; Suth, BettyhilJ 1 Jun, Forsinaird 21 Jul; Peeb, Drummelzier 29 May. *Red Kite Milvus milvus Immature Ayr 18 Apr (JL) is first Ayrshire record since 1892; one Buckhaven, Angus 6 Jan (MJB). White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla Re-introduction project continued Rhum, Inv where 10 young released; one of these wing-tagged young in Lewis Oct to Dec. Wandering birds seen in many areas and at least one nest was constructed but no eggs laid; one immature in Shet still present from 1981. *Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Very good year with about 23 in spring and 12 in autumn; reports are of Q 9 or immatures unless noted. Shet, Sumburgh/Lerwick 6-7 May, SouthNesting 9 May, Spiggie 28 May; Fair Isle 4-7 May; O Heb, Stornoway 4Jun, Balranald 13 Aug; Inv, Tulloch Moor 16 May; Moray, Findhorn 15 Aug, G Spynie 24 Dec; Aber, | Newburgh 17 Apr, Strathbeg 19 Apr, 15-18 May, Slains 8-15 May, o& Ythan 16 Aug; Ang, | Kinnordy 29 May, 2 Montrose Basin 2 Jun-7 Aug, 2 Kinnordy 7-8 Aug, 1 to 26 Aug, od | Kinnordy 15 Aug-Oct, Balgavies. 4-14 Sep; Arbroath 16 Sep; Perth, L of Lowes 13 May, | Carsebreck 21 Sep; isle of May 19 May; Fife, 2 Morton Lochs 15-24 May, Fife Ness 5 Oct; | Midl, 2 Bavelaw 14 May, 1 on 19.May; E Loth, Tyninghame 9 May; Peeb, West Water 29 | May; Renf, Lochwinnoch 30 Sep-7 Oct; Lan, Carstairs 2 Oct; Ayr, Kilbirnie 3 Oct; Dumf, Lochmaben 8 Oct; Kirk, o& L Ken 9 Jun, 10-19 Jul, 27 Aug; Wig, West Freugh 16-17 May. Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Breeding: Ork, mean brood size 2.56 from 16 successful nests in study area; W Moray, 6 nests raised 16 young; Arg, decrease in Mull after vole collapse; | Ayr, 11 prs on territory averaged 5 eggs, 2 prs reared 3 young each; Kirk/Wig, another bad year, 4 known nests only fledged total of 4 young; Peeb, pr nested in county for first time 20 ee since 1924. Migrants: Shet, 2 in spring, 3 in Nov-Dec; Fair Isle, singles 9 and 20 May, juv 25 Aug-8 Oct, singles 3 days to 30 Nov. *Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus 0 Sumburgh, Shet 6 May (PRF). Goshawk Accipiter gentilis At least 7 prs known, of which 5 prs reared 17 young; birds seen in various other areas. Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Breeding: Moray study area reported worst season for 7 years, many prs failed to lay and only 26 young raised from 22 nests. Increase in numbers around gardens in severe weather Jan and suggestion of higher mortality. Migrant max 3 Fair Isle 8 Nov, 4 Kergord, Shet end Oct. Buzzard Buteo buteo Breeding: Inv, 13 prs laid in 21 occupied territories Glenurquhart, 12 young reared from 10 nests; Moray, very good year, 46 young reared from 17 nests checked; Angus, very good with 20 prs nesting; increases noted in various areas, including Borders. Shet migrants, Walls 10-28 Feb, Skerries 27 Sep, Walls 1 Nov and Sumburgh 9 Nov-Dec. *Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus At least 35 records is high: Shet, Spiggie and Voe 20 Oct, Brae 21 Oct, Unst 2 Nov-31 Dec, North Roe 8 Nov, Whalsay 14 Nov; Fair Isle 11 Oct, 2 on 12 Oct-11 Nov, 1 to 26 Dec; -Ork, Sanday 9 Jan-5 Feb, Orphir 29 Mar, Birsay 17 Oct, N Ronaldsay 19-22 Oct, Evie/Firth/Rendall 1+ 23 Oct-18 Dec; Caith, Reay 17 Oct, Rumster 27 Dec; Aber/Kinc, Glen Dye 27 Feb, 2 Forvie 14 Oct, 1 on 15th, 1 on 16 Nov, Glen Dye 14 Nov, another 27 Nov, both to 31 Dec; Angus/Kinc, St Cyrus 6 Oct, 2 Lundie Crags 13 Nov, one 24-28 Nav, Lintrathen 21Nov; Perth, Pitlochry 19 Apr; Isle of May 12 and 18 Oct; Whiteadder Res 17 Oct, Hopes Res 16 Nov; Borders, Reston 16 Aug is early, St Abbs 12 Oct, Cambus 17 Oct; Arg, Glen Lochy 15 Nov, Croggan, Mull 14 Oct and Dervaig 8-18 Nov; Lan, Glengavel 22 Dec; Ayr, Slot Burn 29 Oct-31 Dec. Golden Eagle Aguila chrysaetos National census revealed population of approx. 420 breeding prs; 182 prs were known to be successful and reared between 209 and 221 young. Migrants: Shet, imm Unst 10 Mar, Walls 17 May and Fetlar 1-18 Jun; Aber, imm sick Rosehearty 2 Oct. Osprey Pandion haliaetus Breeding: 30 nests were occupied and 27 prs laid eggs; 4 or 5 nests were robbed but 21 prs were successful and reared a total of 45 young, the best for well over a century. Arrival was generally early (from 28 March); wandering birds in many areas in Summer; late records Carrbridge, Inv 19 Oct; River Tay, Perth in Oct. Migrants: Shet, Unst 14-21 May, Weisdale 25 May, Yell 30 May, Spiggie 27 Sep, Burra 14 Oct; Fair Isle 8 May; Ork, Rendall 30 May, S Ronaldsay 7 June; Isle of May 16 May and 7 June. Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Numbers reported as lower some areas after severe winter; W Moray 7 prs reared 23 young; 85% occupation of 40 monitored sites, 26 prs had average clutch size 4.7, and 18 successful sites reared 66 young. Very poor spring passage Shet, autumn max 3 Scatness 10 Oct; max Fair Isle 2 Oct. Merlin Falco columbarius Breeding. Shet, poor year, 13 nests with eggs only 14 fledged young, egg-shell thinning noted;.Ork, poor year with very few successful nests, egg-shell thinning noted. W Moray, 3 prs reared 9 young; Borders, very poor for numbers and success. Migrants; Fair Isle max 4 on 4 Apr; Caith, 2 in off sea Noss Head 25 Aug. *Hobby. Falco subbuteo Seven: Whalsay, Shet 28 Jul; Fair Isle 20-21 Jun; Papa Westray, Ork 17-18 Aug; Taurso, Caith 24 Jun; Insh, Inv 8-9 Aug; Oban, Arg 13 Sep; Lochmaben, Dumf 17-18 Jul. *Gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus Fair Isle, singles 12 Apr (N. Riddiford), 9 Dec white phase imm, and 24 Dec (N. J. Riddiford et a/). Imm white phase from drilling rig 100 miles NE of Aber 3 Nov, released Ythan 15 Nov, seen there 19-29 Nov, found dead later in winter inland Aber (A. Anderson et al). 21 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Mainland reports generally good breeding season but continues poor in Ork and Shet. Good numbers in coastal areas in winter; max 2 Isle of May 12 Oct. Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Breeding: mid Deeside stocks average, low in upper Aber/ Banff, poor breeding due to heavy snow in May; steady decreases noted Rhum, Inv, NW Renf, Ayr, Kirk, Wig; poor nos Borders; good coveys Arran. Counts and uausual records: Caitnh, 102 Braemore 31 Jan; Aber, 500 Glas Maol and Vrotachan Jan, 340 Forest of Birse 12 Dec; Midl, 78 Castlelaw 12 Jan; Borders, 49 Hule Moss 21 Nov. Ptarmigan Lagopus mutus Caith, O' Smean 11 Apr; Suth, 5 9 9 each with broods of c8 Ben Hope 13 Jun; Aber, stocks low with poor breeding Cairnwell, slightly better success Cairn- gorms; Dunb, pair Ben Vorlich. 31 May; continued presence Arran, 6 Caisteal Abhail 15 Jan. Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix Aber, 36 Glen Saugh Jan, 25 Glen Derry 25 Jun, widely distri- buted but uncommon mid and upper Deeside; Perth, 17 Glen Artney 5 Dec, 17 Tummel Bridge 12 Dec; Midl, 22 West Calder 10 Jan; increase in signtings Borders, 40 Bownill 14 Apr; Arg, 30 Gruinart, Islay 5 Dec; Lan, 14 at lek East Kilbride District; populations still in flux Ayr, Kirk. Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus Nos still low: Aber, 13 Glen Tanar 24 Feb, 12 Glen Derry Sep, 11Tullynessle 13 Nov; Angus, 1 Sidlaws 11 Dec; Perth, more reports but still scarce; Fife, 2 prs Tentsmuir; Ayr, Q Tarfessock 2 Nov was probably same as in 1977. hybrid x Black Grouse Glenurquhart, Inv Apr. Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Low nos Aber; Angus, coveys of 11 Glen Clova 25 Sep, 15 Glamis 3 Oct; Perth, 2 Lethendy 15 May; Midl, 30 Harburnhead 13 Dec; Dunb, 1 Gartlea 27 Apr; W Stir, 2 Lennoxtown 18 Apr; catastrophic breeding season Borders; scattered sightings of Chukar hybrids Ayr, Kirk. Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Caith, 15 Thurso Jul; Aber, 33 Inverbervie 26 Dec; Perth/ Angus, poor season generally; Fife, 5 Methil Docks 10 Jan; good to average nos Loth; good season Borders, Ayr, but few Kirk. Quail Coturnix coturnix Breeding proved Ork where ad B/8 20 Aug; Fife, brood seen Strathmiglo; also suspected breeding at 2 sites Borders. Many summer records: Shet (3), several Fair Isle, Ork (2), O Heb (2), Caith (1), Ross/Inv (10), Aber (1), Perth/Stir (2), I of May (1), Fife (4), Midl (6), E-Loth (4), Borders (2), Mull (1), Renf (1), Lan (2), Ayr (1), Wig (1). Also 1 Fair Isle 7 May; Ross, | Kirknill 17 Oct, Aber, 1 Slains 7 May; Midl, 3 Currie mid-Apr; Borders, 1 St Abbs 22-26 May, 11 Sep. tHelmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Angus, flock of 12 Logie Pert, Montrose 22 Mar- 11 Jul. Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Shet, © still present Uyeasound, locally released birds Tresta and Lunna; Ork, max 12 St Ola 11 Nov; O Heb, further spread over Lewis; Caith, spread eastwards; Suth, nest with 23 eggs Dornoch 1 May was product of 2 2 Q; Borders, 5000 released, 2000 shot Innerleithen; Ayr, 350 shot Kilkerran 20 Oct. tGolden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Angus, G Leysmill, Arbroath 26 Aug; possible range expansion in Machars, Wig. tSilver Pheasant Lophura nycthemera Borders, 1| killed by fox Lilliardsedge 13 Dec is from a new area. Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Breeding: Caitn, 1 Newton Moss 18 June; Aber, probably bred Davan juv Strathbeg Aug; Angus, 5 prs bred Kinnordy, pr bred Forfar; Borders, min 10 prs Selkirk-St Boswells; E Dunb/W Stir, 25 prs at 9 sites Cumbernauld/Kilsyth District; Glas, 4 prs Bishopbriggs; Lan, 6 prs + 2 young Lenzie 3 Jul, also bred Stepps; Ayr, min 7 prs New Cumnock. Migrants: Shet, influx from 11 Oct involving min 11 birds; Fair Isle, 1 on 22 1 Jun, 1st autumn 14 Sep, last on 5 Dec; Aber, 4 singles 28 Sep-8 Nov; 1 killed by Long- eared Owl I of May 5 Nov; Borders, main influx St Abbs 9-16 Oct. *Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Shet, 1 aboard St Clair between Aberdeen and Lerwick 30 Jul, released Mid Yell 31 Jul, 1 Skerries 3-5 Oct; 1 Fair Isle 26 Sep, dead on 27th, 1 on 29 Sep-2 Oct; Aber, 1 Drums 11 Oct; E Loth, 1 calling Aberlady 23 May; Borders, 1 St Abbs 13 Oct; Dunb, 1 Endrick Mouth 28 Aug. *Sora Rail Porzana carolina one Foula, Shet 30 Nov (F. Rattar)§. *Baillon’s Crake Porzana pusilla one Sumburgh, Shet 9 Nov (M.S. Chapman)§. Corncrake Crex crex Breeding: Shet, 7 calling Unst late May-early Jun, singles at 2 other sites; Ork, 17+ calling, 3 broods totalling 10 young seen Papa Westray Jul; O Heb, min 25 calling birds along 25 miles of road West Lewis 19-20 Jun; Aber, possibly bred Rora; calling birds I Heb, Canna (10), Coll (5), Mull (2), Rhum (1), Colonsay (1), 30-35 prs Islay. Also heard calling Caith (4), Suth (1), Ross (2), Moray(1), Dunb (2), Renf (1), Arran (2), Ayr (1), Kirk (1). Ist arrival Lochwinnoch, Renf 24 Apr; late records Fair Isle 29 Sep; Elgin, Moray 29 Sep; Barns Ness, E Loth 7 Oct. Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Breeding: Shet, 2 prs nested, 1 chick seen Culswick 10 Jul; Ork, 9+ prs bred at 3 sites; low nos Caith; Angus, 45 prs bred Kinnordy, good nos reared; Dunb/W Stir, 33+prs at 15 sample sites Cumbernauld/Kils yth District; Renf, decrease to 1 pr Paisley Moss; low nos central Kirk. Counts and migration: Fair Isle, 1 on 7 Mar, few 21 Sep-24 Dec; Ork, 18 Voy Sandwick 2 Jan; O Heb, 1 St Kilda 20 Apr; 1 I of May 28 Apr; Fife, 22 Rosyth 9 Oct; W Loth, 23 Glendevon 27 Feb; more records Mull; Lan, 40 SCP 1 Jan. Coot Fulica atra Breeding: Ork, 13 prs noted; 2 prs each reared 1; Angus, 70 prs bred Kinnordy; Midl, 16+prs noted at-5 sites; W Loth, 16+prs noted at 6 sites; E Dunb/W Stir, decrease at 6 sites from 16 to 12 prs Cumbernauld/Kilsyth District; Renf, 14 prs reared a total 38 young Kilmacolm; Kirk, few L Ken. Counts and passage: Ork, 323 L of Harray 13 Dec; Caith, 130 L Scarmclate. 12 Dec; Aber, 1150 Strathbeg 25 Oct; Angus, 200 Lin- trathen 2 Feb; Perth, 293 Drummond Pond 14 Nov; Fife, 350 Cameron Res 13 Dec; Kinr, 2560 L Leven 3 Oct; W Loth, 343 Linlithgow 12 Sep; Borders, 268 Hirsel 12 Sep; Dunb/Renf, 160 Clyde est 10 Jan, 270 Lochwinnoch 27 Oct; Lan, Woodend L 7 Nov; Kirk, 373 L Ken 18 Jan. Crane Grus grus Four: W Ross, one Laide 25-26 Mar (S. Horton Ormerod); Ork, singles Birsay 20 Apr (E. R. Meek, Mrs Sinclair) and Rendall, Firth 4 May (E. J. Williams), Shet, one Haroldswick, Unst 22-26 Apr, Lund 2 May (I. Spence, Mrs J. T. Thomson). Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Breeding: Fair Isle, 89 prs; Ork, 46 prs Mainlar. 4, 167 prs other isles; Inv, 81 prs Canna is high; Arran, only 36 nests; Kirk, increase Upper Minnoch, good nos L Ken. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, peaks 220 on 25 Mar, 265 on 16 Aug; Suth, 1500 L Fleet 28 Feb, 1800 on 19 Dec; Moray, 1315 Findhorn 28 Jul; 2971 Mon- trose 12 Dec; Perth, 62 inland Dunning 8 Feb; Fife, 3537 Eden est 15 Nov; Midl, 2600 Musselburgh Jan, 3600 in Oct; W Loth, 2000 Dalmeny Jul; E Loth, 2540 Aberlady 17 Sep, 1520 Gosford 27 Nov; Rox, Ist inland Lilliesleaf 4 Feb; Dunb/Renf, 3797 Clyde est 7 Feb, 3532 ex 12 Dec; Kirk, 4200 Southwickburn-Southerness 12 Dec, 8800 Southerness-Carse Bay 10 Jan. *Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta 4L Fleet, Suth 25 Aug (P. W. D. Lawrence). Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Breeding: No significant comments. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, influx early Sep max 105 on 3rd; Ork, 120 Sanday 8 Feb; Aber, 187 ’Ythan 22 May, 125 on 26 Aug; Fife, 295 Eden est 30 May; Midl, 131 Musselburgh May, 140 in Aug; E Loth, 275 Aberlady 21 May, 352 on 13 Aug, 420 Tyninghame 22 May; Dunb/ Renf, 144 Clyde est 10 Jan; Ayr, 450 Barassie 17 May, 300 on 12-15 Aug. *Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii One Aberlady Bay, E Loth 24 Jun (A. Brown, P. R. Gordon, G. Anderson). 23 Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Breeding: usual nos but poor success in E Grampians and Cairngorms possibly due to dry summer; a few prs reported elsewhere; Ist on nest grounds 9 May. Migrants: Fair Isle, 1 on S Oct; O Heb, 1 Uig, Lewis Jul; Fife, 2 Eden est 14 Aug; Arg, 1 Mull of Kintyre 2 Aug; Arran, 1 Beinn Tarsuinn 8 May, 2 Mulloch Buide 21 Aug; Kirk, 2 on 29 May; Dumf, 2 Eastpark 14 May. Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Breeding: few changes noted; in Borders high densities in Lammermuirs but very poor year in Tweedsmuir and Cheviot Hills. Counts and passage: autumn nos low in many areas; Fair Isle, main passage 17 Aug-4 Oct max 50 on 3rd and 22 Sep; Ork, 2000 Hatston 11 Nov; Banff, 800 on 12 Oct; Aber, 1000 Maud Apr but autumn max only 605 Pitmeddan 26 Sep; Angus, 630 Arbroath 11 Dec; Fife, 1200 Balcomie 13 Sep; Midl, 1400 northerns Middleton 15-16 Apr, 2000 Braidburn, Edinburgh Nov, 1000 Long Hermiston 21 Oct; E Loth, 1500 Tranent 24-30 Sep; Peeb, 1st 10 inland Heathpool 10 Feb; Lan, 3000 Tannochside 28 Sep; Ayr, 2500 Bogside 5 Oct, 2000 Prestwick 3 Nov; Wig, 600 L Ryan 18 Oct. Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Fair Isle, only 6 autumn singles; Ork, 27 Sanday 7 May, last spring Orphir 10 Jun; Suth, 19 Dornoch 7 Feb; Aber, 40 Ythan 7 Aug, 6 inland Tipperty 27 Oct; Angus, 15 Montrose 14 Nov; Fife, 76 Tayport 13 Feb, 458 Eden est 14 Dec; Mid, 34 Musselburgh 9 Jan, 54 on 14 Nov, 3 inland Gladhouse 30 Sep; E Loth, 122 Tyninghame 24 Jan, 298 Aberlady 22 Apr, 86 summered, 330 on 16 Sep; Arg, 2 Fidden 4 May is Ist spring record Mull; Dunb, very low autumn nos Clyde est max only 4 Cardross 26 Sep, 1 inland Endrick Mouth 6 Sep, 25 SW Cumbernauld 24 Noy; Lan, 1 Carnwath 28 Aug; Ayr, ist autumn Bogside 10 Jul, 22 on 5 Oct; Kirk, 150 Southerness-Carse Bay 10 Jan, 85 on 12 Dec. Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Breeding: return many areas early Feb in mild weather; decreases noted Ork, Isle of May, Midl, E Loth, Mull, Renf, Ayr, Kirk, Wig following severe winter; Fair Isle, increase to 7 prs; Ork, good success though fewer prs; Dunb/ W Stir, 108 prs Cumbernauld/Kilsyth District; Ayr, very poor success, 8 from 9 prs Shutter- flat Moor and 7 prs Dailly failed; Peeb, 40 prs square NT 23. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, peaks 170 0n 9 Mar, 230 on 2 Oct; Shet, 1200 Hillwell 12 Nov; Moray, 1150 Findhorn 28 Jul; Aber, 1900 Ythan 14 Feb, 1925 on 24 Nov; Fife, 1500 Longannet 9 Oct; Midl, 2000 Glad- house 30 Jul and 5 Aug; E Loth, 2000 Fenton Barns 1 Nov; Borders, 2500 Kalemouth 14 Feb; Dunb/Renf, 2584 Clyde est 10 Jan, 2505 on 12 Dec; Lan, 2000 Drumclog 26 Jul; Ayr, 3200 Galston 27 Aug. Knot Calidris canutus Winter-spring: Shet, 250 N Hascosay 11 May; Ork, 50 Sanday 25 May; Suth, 1500 Dornoch 28 Feb; Moray, 1200 Findhorn 25 Apr; Aber, 370 Fraserburgh 28 Feb; Fife, 1500 Kirkcaldy 13 Jan; W Loth, 3000 Dalmeny 5 Feb; Midl, 10000 Mussel- burgh 26 Jan; E Loth, 2720 Aberlady 6 Feb, 300 summered; Ayr, 300 Barassie 1 Jan; Kirk, 6060 Southerness—Carse Bay 10 Jan, 6 inland L Ken 20 Apr. Autumn: Fair Isle, poor nos max 10 on 12 Aug; Suth, 700 Brora 19 Dec; Moray, 950 Burghead 7 Oct; Angus, 4000 Montrose Dec; Perth, Ist Invergowrie 8 July; Fife, 2500 Kirkcaldy 27 Nov; W Loth, 5000 Dalmeny 29 Dec; Midl, 3 inland Gladhouse 12 Sep, 6000 Musselburgh 13 Nov; E Loth, 4350 Aberlady 29 Nov; Dunb, 6 inland Endrick Mouth 2 Aug; Lan, 1 Glengavel Res 20 Aug. Sanderling Calidris alba Winter-spring: Ork, 194 Sanday 8 Feb, 150 on 25 May; Aber, 250 Balmedie-Ythan 9 May; Angus, 250-300 Barry Buddon 13 Apr; Fife, 50 Kinshaldy 10 Jan; E Loth, 135 Aberlady 22-23 May; Ayr, 60 Barassie 24 May; Dumf, very high nos late May peak 9000 suggests Solway may be major spring staging post in some years. Autumn: low nos; Shet, from 3 Jul max 35 Sumburgh 4 Oct; Ork, 43 Sanday 29 Dec; Aber, 63 Don Mouth 28 Sep; Angus, 150 Dighty Mouth 28 Sep; Midl,1 inland Gladhouse 13 Aug; E Loth, 96 Aberlady 8 Aug; Dunb, 1 inland Endrick Mouth 7 Aug; Ayr, 1 Barassie 28 Jun, 44 on 5 Aug. Little Stint Calidris minuta Spring: Shet, singles Fetlar 2-3 Jun, Virkie 6 Jun; Ork, 1 Sandwick 29 May; Angus, 1 Buddon Burn 12 Jun; Midl, 2 Musselburgh 16 May; E Loth, 24 le 1 Tyninghame 20 Jun. Autumn: poor year, about 70 birds with no more than 3 together; 1st Borgie R, Suth, 17 Jul; last Aberlady, E Loth27 Nov. Summary of estimated individuals present: July Aug Sep Oct Nov North (Shet-Suth) 2 10+ 10+ 2 East (Moray-Fife) 3 18 5 SE (Loth) 4 7 1 1 SW (Ayr) 2 4 *Temminck’s Stint Calidris temmenckii Breeding: 1st 2 main site 14 May, pr with 4 young 1 Jul; 1 displaying another site 16 May-11 Jun. Migrants: Shet, 2 Fetlar 28 May, 1 to 31st; Fair Isle, singles 17 Jun and 16 Sep; Inv, 1 Boat of Garten 3 Jul; E Loth, 2 Aberlady 22 May, 1 on 24 May; Ayr, 1 Doonfoot 2 Oct. *Baird’s Sandpiper Calidris bairdii Two: Fair Isle 17-21 Sep (A. V. Moon, N. J. Riddiford, J.J. Sweeney et al), Findhorn Bay, Moray 5-6 Oct (B. Etheridge, N. Elkins, W. Taylor etal). *Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Six or seven: Shet, Sandness 7 Sep (BPW); O Heb, Benbecula 5 Sep (JJG), Balallan, Lewis 15 Sep (IHL); Aber, Ythan 21 Sep (CRM), possibly same Meikle 25-29 Sep (NP ez a/); Dunb/W Stir, Endrick Mouth 1 Aug (GJB); Kirk, L Ken 20 Aug (MNR)—Ist for Galloway. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Spring: Ayr, 1 Barassie 17-18 May. Autumn: about 190 birds 30 Jul-Oct, summary as follows: July Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct 1-14 = 15-31 1-14 =15-30 North (Shet-Inv) 1 7 9 5 1 East (Moray-Fife) 1 10+ 20+ 3056 3 SE (Loth) 3 2 9 20+ 13+ 3 W (O Heb-Ayr)- 2 @°- 20a: 20+ 2 Noteworthy records: Shet, 5 Sumburgh 17 Sep; O Heb, 14 Ardvule, S Uist 12 Sep; Inv, 1 Kilmory 14 Aug (1st for Rhum); Moray, 5 Findhorn 21 Aug; Aber, 10 Ythan 8 Sep; Fife, 13 Edenside 19 Sep; E Loth, 11 Tyningname 16 Sep; Ayr, 9 Bogside 18 Sep. Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Breeding: | pr reared | + young in usual area. Counts: Shet, 130 Whalsay 1 Jan; Fair Isle, last 1 Jun, return 23 Jul max 30 on 13 Apr; Ork, 550 North Ronaldsay 2 May; Suth, 110 Brora 5 Dec; Aber, 361 Girdle Ness/ Greg Ness 9 Feb; Angus, 165 Arbroath 29 Mar, 7 back 6 Jul; Fife, 106 Kirkcaldy 7 Apr; Isle of May, 173 on 17 Aug; Ber, 157 Eyemouth 1 Dec; Ayr, 114 Turnberry 27 Feb. Birds in Jun Shet (2), Ork (1), Isle of May (3). Dunlin Calidris alpina Breeding: Shet, good season Fetlar; Suth, back 21 Apr; Inv, 1-2 prs at lowland site; Borders, poor season in uplands, 4+prs West Water; Ayr, no breeding reports; Kirk, again no evidence of breeding; Wig, possibly 1-2 prs remain. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, mainly 9 May-14 Jun, 1 Aug-22 Sep max 10 on 18 May; Suth, 1500 Dornoch 28 Feb; 1500 Ardersier 31 Jan; Moray, 1600 Findhorn 24 Jan; Angus, 1356 Montrose 12 Dec; Fife, 1566 Eden est 14 Dec; W Loth, 2000 Dalmeny 22 Jan and 29 Dec; Midl, 2400 Musselburgh 9 Jan; Arg, 1000 S in fog Mull of Kintyre 2 Aug: Dunb/Rerf, 2668 Clyde est 10 Jan, 1426 on 12 Dec; Ayr, 950 Barassie 20 Feb; Dumf, 850 Inner Solway 23-Jul::: *Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis Three records: Shet, Skerries 17 Sep (D. M. Pullan); O Heb, North Uist 18 Sep (K. Fairclough)§; Edenside Fife 18 Sep (I. G. Cumming, Mrs W. Mattingley)§. Ruff Philomachus pugnax Winter-spring: Shet, 3 in May-Jun; Fair Isle, 1 on 19-21 May; Ork, 6 in Mar-Apr; O Heb, 2 displaying @ Gand 1 9 15 Jun; Aber, max 6 Ythan 16 May; 25 Angus, 3 Montrose 18 Apr; Perth, Invergowrie 6-22 Apr max 2; Fife, 7 Eden est 9 Mar; Midl, 1 in Jan, 1 in Apr-May; E Loth, max 17 Gosford 9 Feb; Renf, 3 in Apr; Dunf, 3 Caerlaverock 13 May. Autumn-winter: low nos except in N; Shet, peaks 60 Hillwell 8 Sep, 57 Dun and 50+ Whalsay 20 Sep; Fair Isle, two main waves 19-26 Aug and 20 Sep-5 Oct max 17 on 22 Sep; Ork, late 1 Firth 30 Nov; Caith, max 17 on 22 Sep; Ork, late 1 Firth 30 Nov; Caitn, 20 L Watten 15 Aug; Aber, from 24 Jul max 35 Drums 5 Oct, later 19 Slains 23 Nov; Angus, 11 Dun’s Dish 10 Aug; Fife, 8 Eden est 22 Aug-19 Sep; W Loth, 12 Kinneil 29 Aug; Midl, 12 Musselburgh 3 Oct; E Loth, max only 11 Aberlady 6 Sep; Arg, 1 Fidden 23 Sep (2nd for Mull); Lan, 13 Summerston, Glasgow 7 Sep; in SW peaks only 5 Highfield, Ayr 6 Aug and SL Connell, Wig 4 Sep. Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Very poor year. Winter-spring: N of Forth-Clyde Jan-Apr only Shet (+), Aber (3) and Caith (1); peaks elsewhere Ber, 4 Reston 3 Jan; E Loth, 4 Longniddry 9 Jan; Ayr, 4 Prestwick 1 Apr; Lan, 5 Possil Marsh 6 Jan; late bird Unst, Shet 1 Jun. Autumn-winter: widespread singles from 2 Sep; peaks only Shet, 9 Skerries 28 Sep; Fair Isle, 11 on 5 Oct; Ross, 5 Munlochy Bay 23 Oct; Renf, 5 Paisley Moss 29 Oct and 15 Nov; Ayr, 10 Prestwick 30 Nov. Snipe Gallinago gallinago Breeding: Shet, 1st drumming Unst 6 Mar; Fair Isle, further increase to 19 prs; Suth, 21 prs Handa; Angus, 10 prs Kinnordy; Borders, poor year; possible decreases E Ross, Rhum and Kirk/Wig. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, max 75 on 18 Sep; Ork, 140 Houton-Cumminess 10 Oct; Angus, 100 Kinnordy 7 Nov; Dunb, 120 Dullatur 8 Nov; Ayr, 200 Bogside 16 Sep. Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Breeding. only status comment was slight decrease Glentrool, Kirk; 1st roding 26 Feb Aber, late Feb Midl. Counts and passage: Shet, 15 Skerries 8 Nov; Fair Isle, poor spring passage, large influx 5-14 Nov max 250 on 6th; Caith, 12 Olrig Woods 3 Feb is high for there; Isle of May, 60 on 5 Novy; Inv, 50 Canna Jan; Ayr, influx Upper Minnoch 27 Oct-7 Nov; small nos widespread on E coast during Nov influx. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Breeding: Shet, 1 pr usual site fledged 2 young, unsuccessful pr in new area. Counts and passage: Shet, 7 Virkie 13 Sep; Ork, 9. L of Brockan 1 Sep; Aber, 8 Ythan 26 Aug; Angus, 6 Kinnordy 11 Aug; Fife, 76 Eden est 14 Mar; 60 on 15 Nov is low; W Loth, 8 Blackness 12 Oct; Peeb, 6 West Water 13 Jun is 1st county record; Dunb, 35 Endrick Mouth 5 May; Ayr, 8 Barassie 27 Jul; Dumf, 70 R Nith 16 Apr, 8 Caeraverock 1 Nov. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Counts and passage: Shet/Fair Isle, only 3 spring migrants, autumn max 12 in Sep; Ork, 400 Sanday 9 Sep; Suth, 1500 Dornoch 28 Feb; Ross, 1200 Ardersier 31 Jan; Moray, 2000 Findhorn 5 May; Angus, 20 back Broughty Ferry 28 Jun; Fife, 1233 Eden est 14 Dec; Midl, 1200 Musselburgh 5 Dec; E Loth, high nos Aberlady peaks 3240 on 26 Jan, 1700 on 29 Nov; Arg, 240 L Indaal, Islay 17 Jan; Kirk, 4000 Southwickburn-Southerness 10-14 Jan, 3000 Southerness-Carse Bay 10 Jan. Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Breeding: Shet, 1st 20 Apr, Ist chicks Fetlar 17 Jun, last 14 Sep; Ork, 6-7 prs N Isles; Scottish Mainland, 1 pr hatched 1+ young, 1+ fledged. Counts and passage 23 Mar (early)—20 Oct nos generally low: Fair Isle, 12 on 3 May; Ork, 10 South Ronaldsay 19 Oct; Inv, 1 Rhum 23 Mar, 10 Tarradale 15 Jul; Aber, 18 Peterhead 6 Aug; E Loth, 54 Tyninghame 1 Aug, 22 on 15 Aug; Ber, 13 St Abbs 1 Aug; Wig, unusual record of 100+ Leswalt 6 May; Dumf, 12 Caerlaverock 6 Sep. Curlew Numenius arquata Breeding: Shet, good season; Fair Isle, 5S prs fledged 7 young; Ork, 71 prs counted; Aber, confirmed at only 12 Atlas sites; W Stir, 1S + prs Campsie Fells; Ayr, decrease to 10 prs Barrnill area; Kirk, now very scarce Glentrool and few L Ken. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, max 45 on 24 Aug; Ork, 1000 South Ronaldsay 26 Jan and 30 Dec; Aber, 990 Sandhaven 3 Oct; Isle of May, max 180 on 10 Oct, W Loth, 500 Dalmeny 5 Jul; E Loth, 725 Aberlady 16 Sep; Dunb/ Renf, 701 Clyde est 7 Feb; Ayr, 600 Blairbowie 13-17 Mar, 600 Meikle Craigs 30 Nov. Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Winter-spring singles: Moray, Findhorn 9 May; 26 Aber, Ythan 2nd and 16 May; Angus, Montrose 18 Apr, Fife, Eden est 2 Jan, Balcomie 24 May; Midl/W Loth, Dalmeny/Cramond 22 Feb-4 May; E Loth, Tyninghame 25 Apr and 2 May; Renf, L Thom 6 Apr. Autumn passage from 2 ‘Aug mostly singles, Summary: Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov 1-14 = 15-31 1-14 15-30 North (Shet-Inv) 3 6 1 2 East (Moray-Fife) 4 7 10+ 5 3 SE (Loth/Peeb) 4 2 S+ 1 2 2 W (O Heb-Kirk) 4 3 4 3 2 1 Noteworthy records: Aber, 6 Ythan 28 Aug; E Loth, 3 Tyninghame early Aug, 4 Aberlady 6 Sep; W Loth, 1 Dalmeny 6 Nov-29 Dec: Peeb, 1 West Water 12-18 Sep seems to be Ist for county. Redshank Tringa totanus Breeding: Aber, confirmed at only 2 Atlas sites was only comment of note. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, max 120 on 3 Sep; Moray, 1190 Findhorn 22 Aug; Aber, 901 Ythan 21 Oct; Angus, disastrous year with 270 dead Montrose 12-22 Jan during severe weather, only 500 live birds Jan when 1500 normal, peak 771 on 17 Oct is low; Fife, 855 Eden est 15 Nov; Dunb/Renf, very low nos Clyde est, peaks only 3138 on 28 Mar, 2574 on 12 Dec; Kirk, 1000 Carse Bay 3 Oct. Greenshank Tringa nebularia Breeding: Perth, normal numbers was only comment; did not breed Shet. Counts and passage generally low: Moray, 8 Findhorn 11 Sep; Aber, 18 Ythan 26 Aug, 13 on 18 Sep; Fife, 7 Eden est 19 Sep; E Loth, 10 Tyninghame 23 Aug; Renf, 16 Woodhall 28 Mar, 26 on 24 Oct; Wig, 13 Gairlieston 26 Aug; Dumf, 8 Caerlaverock 3 Aug. Wintering birds: Ross/Inv, 7-12; Banff, Jan (2); Aber, Jan, Dec; Fife, Jan; E Loth, Jan; Dec; Arg, Jan (8), Dec (3); Dunb/Renf, Jan (8), Dec (8); Ayr, Jan (2); Kirk/ Wig, a few. Green Sandpiper Tringa ochrogus Winter-spring singles; Snet, Whalsay 19 Apr, Foula 4 May; Fair Isle, 8-9 May and 2 Jun; Ork, North Ronaldsay 3 Jun; O Heb, Balranald 14 May; Aber, Greg Ness 14 Apr; Angus, Kinnordy 5 May; Ber, Eyemouth 22 Apr; Arg, Coll 28 May; Ayr, Tarholm Jan-1 Apr. Autumn passage poor: Fair Isle, 31 Jul-29 Aug 1-3 except 4 on 4th and 23 Aug; Ork, 17 between 13 Jul-14 Sep; elsewhere only 44 between 13 Jul-18 Sep: Shet (2), Caith (1), Inv (1), Aber (7), Angus (4), Perth (2), Fife (2), E Loth (3), Ber (3), Arg (3), Dunb (3), W Stir (2), Renf (1), Lan (5), Ayr (4), Dumf (1). Late birds: Aber, Fintry 22 Oct; E Loth, Tyninghame 11 Oct; Lan, Lamington to 15 Oct, perhaps same 9 Dec. *Wood Sandpiper 7ringa glareola Breeding: Inv, Ist at main site 8 May, 2-3 prs bred, last 8 Jul; singles at suitable sites Caith 27 May and Ross in May; West Central Scotland, bird songflighting in Jun at one area. Passage nos low: Fair Isle, 2 on 4 May, singles 10th, 14th, 24th, 26th, 29th Aug, 2 on 25th and 30 Aug; O Heb, Baleshare, North Uist 4 Aug; Caith, Broubster 27 May; Aber, Strathbeg 15 May; Angus, Forfar 22 May; Vane Farm 23 Jul; W Loth, Bangour 28 Aug; E Loth,.1 Aberlady 14-15 May, 2 on 16-17 May, 1 on 31 May, 1 on 8 Jun, 1 Barns Ness 23 Sep; Borders, Bowhill 21 Aug; Ayr, Bogside 2 Oct; Dumf, Caer- laverock 13 May. Common Sandpiper Actitus hypoleucos Breeding: Snet, 8 Prs; Midl, 8-9 prs Grencorse/ Loganlea; W Stir, decrease from 4 to 1 pr sample area Carron Valley; Arran, 35 prs; Ayr/ Kirk, good nos Upper Minnoch. Winter: 2 West L Tarbart, Arg 16 Jan. Spring arrival: Ist Dunure, Ayr 5 Apr; 7 Apr Arg; most Ist dates 10-18 Apr; Ist in Ork/Shet 8 May. Counts: Inv, 39 Insh 14-Jul; Perth, 19 Faskally S May; Midl, 18 Glencorse/ Loganlea 6 Jul; Peeb, 24 West Water 12 Aug; Arg, heavy passage Mill of Kintyre 23 Jul-10 Aug max 40 on 2 Aug at 0200 hrs; W Stir, 35 Newshot 21.Jul; Ayr, 20 Bogside 28 Jul. Last records Banff 23 Oct; Balgray Res, Renf 13-19 Nov; Arg, Mull 26 Nov. *Spotted Sandpiper Actitus macularia O Heb, one St Kilda 22-23 May (A. Bennett, J. J. Gordon). Turnstone Arenaria interpres Counts and passage: Shet, largest summer flock 63 Whalsay 30 Jun; Fair Isle, high nos, 126 on 10 Mar, 175 on 7 Nov, 300 on 27 Dec (record count); Ork, 27 a 317 Sanday 8 Feb, usual summering; Inv, 1-2 Muck 6 Jun, 1 L Insh 14 Jun; Moray, 56 Speymouth 11 Jun; Aber, 765 Fraserburgh-Rosehearty 27 Mar, 600 on 4 Sep, small nos summered; Isle of May, present all year max 269 on 2 Sep; Midl, 390 Musselburgh 6 May; E Loth, 277 Gosford 27 Nov; Peeb, 5 West Water 23 May; Dunb, 16 Endrick Mouth 1 Aug; Ayr, 220 Barassie 16 Apr. *Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor Adult O Fetlar, Shet 28 May-1 Jun (D. Bird, D. W. Burns, S. R. Cale et al). Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Breeding: Shet, 1st Q Fetlar 23 May, estimated 16-21 prs, Ist chicks 30 Jun, Ist juvs 19 Jul, last adult 13 Aug, last juv 17 Aug, 2 birds Jun at another locality but no evidence of breeding; O Heb, 1 pr failed, 2-3 prs reared some young; Scottish Mainland, pair present, no proof of nesting. Migrants: Ork, 2 Sanday, 18 May, 1 Westray 13-14 Aug. *Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius Seven: Ork, North Ronaldsay 4 Nov (J. Cutt); O Heb, Bragar, Lewis 11 Sep (IHL), South Uist 12 Sep (CJS); Arg, off Tiree 20 Sep (RFC), Ayr, Doonfoot 30 Sep-2 Oct (JD, RHH et al), Troon 21 Nov (BCF, JK); Wig, Corsewall Pt (RWF, SW). Pomarine Skua_ Stercorarius pomarinus Spring: Shet, 1 Boddam 16 May, 1 Sandwick 20 May; O Heb, large passage Balranald early May max 347/3 hrs on 4th; Suth, 5 Stoer 25 Apr; Midl, 3 inland Gladhouse 2 May; Arg, 1 Sound of Mull 2 May; Dumf, flock of 21 up Solway 3 May. Autumn: 117 between 7 Aug-19 Dec summary as follows: Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec North (Shet-Inv) 5 2 8 3 3 East (Banff-Fife) 11 24 42 yD SE (Loth) 2 8 4 SW (Ayr) 1 2 Peaks: Banff, 3 Buckie 14 Oct; Aber, 5 Peterhead 6 Nov, 8 on 7th, 6 on 12th, 5 on 21 Nov; Isle of May, 3 on 15 Oct; E Loth, 3 Barns Ness 6 Oct. Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Breeding: Shet, 30 prs Whalsay, Ist fledged 14 Jul; Fair Isle, 100 prs but poor success; Ork, survey of most islands gave 1033 occupied terri- tories (717 in 1974) including 407 Hoy, 101 Eday, 96 Papa Westray; O Heb, 20-30 prs Lewis, 54 prs North Uist, 6-10 prs Benbecula; Suth, 19 prs Handa. Migration: Shet, 17 Apr-25 Oct; Fair Isle, 14 Apr-25 Sep; Ork, last 4 Scapa Bay/ Stenness 4 Dec; Ross, 1 Lentran 14 Nov; Inv, 1 NEL Lochy 1 May, 1 Insh 7 May, 1 L Mallachie 12 Nov; Aber, from 17 Apr, peaks 119 N Peterhead 20 Aug, 115 N on 21st, 80 N 40 S on 25 Aug, last 10 N Coldwells 7 Dec; Angus, 2 inland Kinnordy 25 Jul;.Isle of May, max 25 on 8 Sep, singles to 7 Dec; Fife, 58 S Fife Ness 5 Sep, last 2 St Andrew’s 4 Dec; W Loth, peaks 70 W Hound Pt 19 Sep, 88 W on 24th, 75 W on 25 Sep; Mid], 38 Musselburgh 5 Sep, last on 27 Nov; E Loth, 47 S Barns Ness 5 Sep; Ber, 21 St Abbs 6 Sep; Arg, Ist Mull 14 Apr; W Stir, 1 inland L Arklet 3 May; Ayr, 3 late singles Nov; Dumf, 1 Inner Solway 16 Noy-19 Dec. *Long-tailed Skua_ Stercorarius longicaudus Shet, 1st summer Fetlar 10 Jul; Fair Isle, Ist summer 6th, 14th, 21-23 Jul, another on 17 Aug; Ork, Hoy 28 Jun-7 Jul, Birsay 7 Sept; O Heb, 3 Balranald 7-8 May; Aber, juv Peterhead 23 Oct; W Loth and South Queensferry- Hound Pt 24-25 Sep; Midl, 2 imms Musselburgh 25 Sep. Great Skua Stercorarius skua Breeding: Shet, lst chicks Noss 8 Jun; Ork, survey of most islands gave 1652 occupied territories (482 in 1974) including 1573 Hoy; O Heb, 35 prs St Kilda, 20 prs Lewis, 2 prs Shiants; Suth, 38 prs Handa is further increase. Migration: Shet, 27 Mar-25 Oct, Fair Isle, 25 Mar-early Nov; Ork, 1 Pentland Firth 12 Feb, 1 Stromness 26 Dec; Caith, 29 Noss Hd 9 Aug; Ross, 6 Chanonry Ness 7 Oct; Aber, from 6 Apr, peaks only 33 N Peterhead 21 Aug, 41 N on 28 Aug, last singles Peterhead and Caldwells 4 Dec; Angus, 1 inland Kinnordy 11-12 May; Isle of May, max 15 on 12 Oct, singles 4tn, 7 Dec; Fife, % N Fife Ness 7 Oct, last Kirkcaldy 28 Nov; W Loth, peaks 33 W Hound Pt 24 Sep, 31 W 8 Eon 1 Oct; ELoth, 6 Tyninghame 5 Oct; Ber, 10 St Abbs 6 Sep; Arg, 1 Mull 24 Nov. 28 ———— _ *Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Six: Suth, ad Brora 12 Oct (IA); Banff, 1st Y on 17 Oct (CND et al); Aber, ad Fraserburgh 26 Aug (PRG); Fife, ad Kilconquhar 26 Sep (DLC); Midl, 1st Y Musselburgh 7 Nov (LLJV); Ayr, ad Irvine 2 Mar (JLB). — Little Gull Larus minutus Shet, 1 Fetlar 26th, 3 on 30 Aug, 1 Sumburgh 31 Dec; Ork, 4 - singles May-Aug; O Heb, 2 in May, 1 in Sep; Caith, 1 Thurso 4 Jan; Banff, 1Deveron 28 Jun; Aber, 14 Between Feb-Jun max 7 Girdle Ness 3 Mar, 27 between Aug-Nov max 3; Angus, recorded all year but max only 50 Arbroath 3 Jan, 27 Barry Buddon 12 Jun; Isle of May, singles 14 Sep, 14 Oct; Fife, max 50+ Fife Ness 5 Oct; Loth/Ber, 5 in May-Jun, 35 between Aug-Nov peaks 6 Gosford 30 Oct, 14 Musselburgh 14 Nov; Renf/Dunb/Lan/ W Stir, 11 between Apr-Sep max 3 Rowardennan 29 Aug; Ayr/Arran, 4 in Jan-Feb, 1 in May, 1in Jul, 3in Sep; Dunf/Kirk/Wig, 1 in Jan, 4in Aug-Sep. *Sabine’s Gull Larus sabini Six, Fair Isle, Ist Y on 11 Sep; O Heb, Butt of Lewis 12 Sep (IHL); Ross, imm, Chanonry Ness 30 Sep (RHD, RAB); Ayr, juv Dunure (JKRM), ad Troon 26 Oct (JK), off Ardrossan 25Nov. (CO), probably same Brodick-Ardrossan crossing 22 and 25 Nov. *Bonaparte’s Gull Larus philadelphia Adult Fetlar, Shet 25 Jun-11 Jul (J. N. Dymond et al). Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Breeding: Shet, only 17 prs Fetlar; Angus, 6000 prs Kinnordy, goo 1 siccess; Perth, 500 prs L nan Eun, increase to 300 prs Blair Drummond, 200-300 prs B tterstone Mill Dam; Midl, 1200 prs North Esk Res; Borders, survey gave about 5000 prs, biggest sites 2500-3000 prs Bemersyde success not known, 1870 prs West Water very successful; Renf, increase to 500+ nests Lochwinnoch with reasonable success; Kirk, 720 prs L Ken, 400 prs L Enoch; Wig, 500 prs Sandhead, 500 prs L Doon Hill. Counts: Inv, 3700 L Garten 31 Mar; Aber, 8000 Skene 20 Mar; Midl, 3290 Seafield 12 Dec; Borders, 4500 Crailing 19 Mar; Dunb/Renf, 11700 Clyde est 10 Jan, 7200 on 27 Aug; Lan, 6000 Hogganfield L 29 Dec; Ayr, 3000 Irvine Mar. *Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Shet, imm Lerwick from 1981 to 25 Mar (DC er al), 1st Y Scalloway 4 Feb-12 Apr (MSC, DC), Ist Y Lerwick 29 Aug (SJR)§, ad Virkie 11 Sep (RE-H)§, 2nd Y Scalloway Dec (MSC et al)§; O Heb, 1 Bragar, Lewis 11 Feb (PME), Balranald 9 May (JGH) §, South Uist 17 Jul (JJS)8§. Common Gull Larus canus Breeding: Shet, good season; Ork, 129 prs Papa Westray; Perth, apparent increase in scattered prs on rivers; Renf, 250 prs L Thom reared 60-80 young; rran, 41 nests averaged 3 eggs; Kirk, continued decrease Glentrool lochs, only 3-4 prs L Skerrow. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, autumn max 450 on 16 Aug; Ork, 7000 Bay of Skaill 24 Nov; Aber, 30000 Skene 20 Feb, 35000 on 7 Nov; Midl, 7700 Portobello-Seafield 10 Jan; Peeb, 16000 West Water 24 Mar; Ayr, 10000 Meikle Craigs 30 Nov. Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Breeding: Snet, 10 prs Fetlar, only 1 pr Noss; Fair Isle, good success; Ork, 52 prs Papa Westray, 1 pr Sule Skerry Ist breeding there; Firth of Forth, 30 prs Bass Rock, 215 prs Craigleith, 50 prs Fidra. Counts and passage: Fair Isle, 20 Mar-18 Oct max 200 on 20 Aug; Inv, none inland summer Glenurquhart is unusual; Aber, 150 Correen Hills 29 May; Angus, 50S/1 hr Arbroath 12 Aug; Midl, 111 Silverburn 15 Jul; Renf, 240 Balgray Res 21 Nov; Lan, 110 Gadloch 2 Oct; Ayr, 550 Doonfoot 6 Apr; Arran, 500 Lamlash 31 Aug. Winter: Ork, 6 in Feb; Inv, 1 Longman 25 Feb; widespread in small nos S from Aber, Jan, Feb, Dec. Scandinavian birds: Ork, Papay sound 23 Jun; Aber, 5 N Girdle Ness 8 Spr, 1 Ythan 11 Nov; Midl, Musselburgh 6 Feb, 17 Feb, 2 Apr, Flotterstone 31 Mar. Herring Gull Larus argentatus Breeding: fair Isle, good season; Suth, 147 prs Handa (214 in 1981); Inv, further increase to 1212 prs Canna; Isle of May, still under 3000 prs; Firth of Forth, 150 prs Bass Rock, 250 prs Fidra: Ayr, 190 prs Currarie-Portandea. Counts: Shet, 10000 Spiggie 8 Dec; Fair Isle, 4830 on 27 Oct; Midl, 25000 Leith-Portobello 10 Jan; Dunb, 5410 Fannyside L 9 Oct; Ayr, 5000 Nethermains 3 Jan. Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides About 180 birds, a very good year: max counts and records of note: Shet, cl7 in Feb; Fair Isle, 7 on 29 Dec; Ork, 4 Stromness 28 Dec; O Heb, 17 Stornoway Feb, 13 on 31 Dec; Suth, 12-15 Achmelvich Bay 24-27 Apr; Inv, Canna 3-6 Apr 29 (1st for island); Aber, 24 Jan-May max 4 Fraserburgh, 6 in Oct-Dec; Fife, 5 Fife Ness 1 Aug, 2 Kilconquhar 5 Aug; Midl/E Loth, 3 in Jan-Apr, 2 in Dec; Renf, Balgray Res 24 Feb, Port Glasgow 21 Dec; Lan, Gadloch 25 Dec; Ayr, 3 in Jan-Apr, 3 in Dec; Kirk, NW Loch Ken 19 Dec. Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Recorded all months but low peaks: Shet, max 10 L of Cliff 7 Feb; Fair Isle, peaks 4 on 21 Oct, 7 on 17 Nov; Ork, max only 2 Skaill 15 Jan; O Heb, 8 Stornoway Feb, 11 Benbecula Feb, 5 Stornoway 31 Dec; Aber, peaks 9 Fraserburgh 16 Jan, Son 11 Dec; singles various coasts S to Ber and Wig; Isle of May, 2 on 5 Nov; Fife, 3 Glenrothes 10 Jan, 2 Kirkcaldy 20 Nov; Midl, 2 Seafield 23 Jan; E Loth, 3 Dunbar 8 Feb; Ayr, 22+ during year, daily max 7 Ayr Feb; Kirk, 1 Loch Ken 13 Mar. Great Black-backed Gull. Larus marinus Breeding: slight increase to 40 prs Rhum, Inv. Counts: Fair Isle, 1600 on 28 Apr, 2320 on 27 Oct; Ork, 1300 Westray 24 Jun; Aber, 1600 Strathbeg 6 Aug; Isle of May, 2582 on 17 Oct. *Ross’s Gull Rhodostethia rosea Adult Scalloway, Shet 26 Dec into 1983 (B. P. Walker, M.S. Chapman et al). Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Breeding: Shet, 50 prs Clett, Whalsay (128 in 1974); Fair Isle, excellent season; Ork, decrease Auskerry; Inv, small increase to 991 prs Canna, 1719 prs Rhum (1413 in 1981); Isle of May, still increasing; Firth of Forth, 670 nests Craigleith, 483 nests Fidra; E Loth, 133 nests/166 young Dunbar Harbour; Ber, slight decrease St Abbs; Kirk, good nos nests Meikle Ress but no eggs or young 23 Jun. Counts and passage: Moray, 2600 E/hr Lossiemouth 14 Oct; Aber, largest 5500 N 4000 S/1 hr Peterhead 26 Jun, 9000 N/1 hr ob 21 Aug; Angus, flock 6000 Budon Ness 14 Jul; W Loth, 3000 W/2 hrs Hound Pt 11 Apr. Inland: Inv, NE Loch Lochy 1 May, Insh died 5 Feb, dead 24 Mar, 31 Oct; Midl, Cobbinshaw 13 Nov; Borders, dead Portmore 14 Mar, on Tweed 9 May; Lan, Summerston 16 Nov; Kirk, dead Kenmure 24 Feb, dead Dunveoch 15 Mar. *Caspian Tern Sterna caspia Two records: O Heb, Sound of Barra 9 Jun (A. Strand); ad Broom Point, L Ken, Kirk 8-10 Jul (R. G. Hawley, Miss J. E. Howie). Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Breeding: Ork, increase to 228 prs 4 sites; Aber, c1500 prs Forvie, good season 1 young per pr fledged; Forth, 478 prs Inchmickery; Ayr, 11 prs failed Horse Island. Winter: Fife, Kirkcaldy 6 Dec; W Loth, Hound Pt 31 Jan, 14 Feb; Midl, Musselburgh 6-7 Feb; E Loth, singles 6 sites Jan, Feb, Nov; Ber, Cove 19 Jan, Counts and passage: Shet/Fair Isle, 3 in May-Jun, 3 in Sep; Ork, 24 Mar-4 Oct; Aber, Ist N Peterhead 23 Mar; Angus, last Auchmithie 17 Oct; Isle of May, 18 Apr-12 Oct max 34; Fife, 1st 2 Fife Ness 29 Mar, 800 Culross 4 Sep; W Loth, 550 Dalmeny 19 Aug; Midl, 1300 Musselburgh 22 Aug, last 29 Nov, 1 inland Gladhose 18 Sep; Dunb, 24 SW Cumbernauld 26 Aug; Renf, 10 W/S mins Erskine 27 Aug. *Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii Breeding: 14 prs Inchmickery was only report. Records: O Heb, 1 Vorran Is, South Uist 7 Jun; Fife, 2 Anstruther 12 May, 2 Shell Bay 22 May, 5 Kirkcaldy 14 Aug; E Loth, 1 Aberlady 13 May; Ayr, singles Troon 13 May, Bogside 14 Jul. Common Tern Sterna hirundo Breeding: Shet, 55 prs Fetlar had good success; Fair Isle, 50 prs fledged 60 young; O Heb, poor season Lewis; Suth, 60 prs Farr Bay; Aber, 170 prs Strathbeg had good season, 150-200 prs Forvie had better season than recent years; Angus, unsuccessful colony SO prs; Isle of May, 14 prs/17 young; Forth, 415 prs Inchmickery; Midl, 160 prs Leith Docks; E Lth, poor season; Renf, decrease to 10 prs L Thom, no success; Ayr, 58 prs Horse Island; Wig, 25 prs L Connell. Arrivals: 1 Dunnet Bay, Caith 14 Apr; 2 Lunan Bay, Angus 22 Apr. Last records: 2 Drums, Aber 5 Oct; 1 Lerwick, Shet 12 Oct. Count: 900 Strathbeg, Aber 6 Aug. Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Breeding: Shet, early season, fledged young 5 Jul, replace- ment clutches still nad unfledged young mid Aug; Ork, good nos chicks most colonies; O Heb, largest colony vandalised and deserted; Inv, pr bred Canna (1st since 1950s); Aber, 150-200 prs Forvie had better season; Angus, 36 prs at 2 colonies; E Loth, poor success; 30 Ayr, 257 prs Horse Island, 17 prs fledged 2 young Ballantrae; Arran, 18 prs Machrie 23 May. Arrivals: 1 St Andrews, Fife 15 Apr; 42 North Ronaldsay, Ork 28 Apr. Last records: Girdle Ness, Aber 4 Oct; Uyeasound, Shet 22 Oct. Count. 800 Edenmouth, Fife 17 Jul. Late records of ‘‘commics’’: Shet, Toft 3 Nov; Borders, Paxton 5 Nov, Thornilee 18 Dec. Little Tern Sterna albifrons Breeding: O Heb, 4 prs Lewis, 16 prs Heisker, 15 prs Barra; Suth, pr failed L Fleet; Aber, 48 prs Forvie fledged under 10 young due to bad weather; Angus, 35 prs at 5 sites but only 3 young fledged; E Loth, 78 prs, moderate success; Arg, increase Islay, 40 birds at one site (26 in 1981), 20 birds at 2 new sites; Ayr, 4 prs/2 fledged young Ballantrae. Arrivals: 2 Aberlady, E Loth 21 Apr; 3 Bogside, Ayr 25 Apr; las Hound Pt, W Loth 25 Sep. One Douglass, Ber 20 Jun appears to be first documented record for Borders. *Black Tern Chlidonias niger Spring: Aber, Meikle 8 May; Angus, Carnoustie 24 Jun; Dumf, 2 Lochmaben 16 May. About 45 in autumn 12 Jul-6 Oct: Ork, Yesnaby 12 Jul, 2 Deerness 5 Aug; O Heb, North Uist 3 Sep; Moray, Speymouth 3 Oct; Aber, Don 28 Aug, Peterhead 11th, 29 Sep; Angus, 2 Clatto 9 Sep, 1 to 24th, Arbroath 19 Sep, Westhaven 27 Sep; Fife, Anstruther 21 Sep; W Loth, 3 Hound Pt/Dalmeny 29 Aug, 5 on 18 Sep, 1 on 19-20th, 1 on 24th, 2 on 2 Oct; Midl, Musselburgh 7th, 15th, 20th, 27 Sep, 2 Cramond 29 Sep; E Loth, Skateraw 4 Aug, Aberlady 22 Aug, 20 Sep; Dunb, Fannyside L 18 Sep, Ardmore 26 Sep; W Stir, Kilsyth 2-3 Aug; Rent, 2 Langbank 13 Sep; Ayr, Greenan 28 Sep; Dumf, Lochmaben 22 Sep, 3 On 26th, 5 on 27-28th, 2 on 29th-6 Oct. *White-winged Black Tern’ Chlidonias leucopterus Adult Fair Isle 9-12 May (N. Riddiford et al); adult Walls, Shet 13-17 May (D. Coutts, C. Jamieson, R. Johnson). Guillemot Uria aalge Breeding: Shet, Sumburgh colony still expanding; Fair Isle, excellent season, nos static after period of annual increases; Ork, good season; Inv, still increasing Canna at 10% pa, Rhum average. at 3870 birds; Kinc, mean Jun count Fowlsheugh 39000; Forth, 2250 sites Bass Rock, 1800 birds Craigleith, 1500 birds Lamb; Ber, sample counts St Abbs suggested nos static; Kirk/ Wig, 3000 birds Scar Rocks. *Brunnich’s Guillemot Uria Jomvia Suth, 2 found dead Brora 3 Feb and Golspie 24 Dec (A. R. Mainwood). Razorbill. Al/ca torda Breeding: Fair Isle, nos static, good season; Shet/Ork, no data on success; Inv, further increase to.665 birds Rhum; Aber, 250 occupied sites/108 fledged young Bullars of Buchan; Kinc, mean Jun count Fowlsheugh 8000; Forth, 74 sites Bass Rock, 57 sites Craigleith, 33 sites Fidra; Ber, sample counts St Abbs suggested small decrease. Inland: 1 Endrick Mouth, Dunb 13 Sep after gales. Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle Breeding: Fair Isle, 150-180 prs; Ork, sample 72 nests Papa Westray 4 July had young; Aber, 1 pr bred; Renf, 2 prs Port Glasgow shipyard; Ayr, up to 20 prs Portandea, 2 prs Ardrossan reared 4 young; Wig, 2-3 prs Clachan Heughs, 1-2 prs Craig Laggan. Counts: Shet, 1000+ N of Hascosay 31 Mar, 369 Bluemull Sound 24 Nov; Caith, 100 Berriedale/Dunbeath 27 May; Aber, recorded every month max 22 N’ Peterhead 26 Apr; a few south to E Loth; Ayr, 20 Turnberry-Curragh 10 Jan; Wig, 24 Mull of Galloway 10 Jul. Little Auk AJle alle Poor year, about SO birds (c14 dead or oiled): Shet, 2 in Feb, 4 S of Ramana Stacks 4 Nov, 2 in Dec; Fair Isle, Jan (1) Dec (3), Ork, Feb (1) Nov-Dec (3); O Heb, Jan-Feb (3); Suth, 1 in Jan; 3 Strathy Pt S Dec; Aber, May (2) Dec (1); Angus, Feb-Mar (S) Dec(2); Isle of May, 1 on 6-7 Nov; Fife, Jan (1) Mar (1) Dec (1); E Loth, Jan (1) Dec (1); Ber, Jan (1) Mar(2); Arg, 2in Feb; Ayr, Apr (1) Dec (3). Puffin | Fratercula arctica Shet, 500 prs Gioup Holm; Fair Isle, 26 Mar-21 Sep, 15000 on 7 May, rapid decrease from 16 Aug; Ork, survey Sule Skerry 19-28 July gave 44000 prs, similar to 1975; Suth, 250 prs Handa; Isle of May, still increasing, exodus mid Aug; Forth, 650 Inchkeith 30 May, 2500 Craigleith 6 Jun. Noteworthy records: Ork, singles Scapa 23 Dec, Houton 31 Dec; Aber, 460 N/3 hrs Peterhead 22 Jul; Rox, 1 Galashiels 10 Jul; Ayr, 1S Turnberry Pt 4 Dec. 31 Rock Dove Columba livia Migration and counts: Shet, max 150 Voe 20 Oct; Fair Isle, max 70 on 22 Sep - highest count ever; Ork, max 700 Bookan Sandwick 12 Dec; Caith, max 250 Killimster 5 Jan; Arg, Mull 107 Kintallen 31 Dec. Stock Dove Columba oenas Breeding: Isle of May, 1 pr reared 1 young. Migration and counts: Snet, 1 Whalsay 24-25 Feb; Fair Isle, singles 20, 24, 25 Apr, 2 on 9, 11, 15 May; Suth, pr Kildonan 30 May; W. Loth, 134 Dalmeny 7 Jan; E. Loth, 100 Samuelston 15 Nov; Kirk, big decrease Loch Ken area. Woodpigeon| Columba palumbus Migration and counts: Shet, influx from 16 Mar up to 10 at 12 sites and from 3 May when up to 7; Fair Isle, max 35 on 4 May; Ork, max 80 Holm 14 Oct; Inv, 2000 Ardersier 9 Jan; Aber, 2000 Cruden Bay 7 Jan; Fife, 2800 Crail 7 Jan; E. Loth, many thousands Gullane - Longniddry early Jan; Ber, 1200 Eyemouth 10 Jan; Ayr, 1500 Monkton 19 Dec inc albino bird, part albino Maicens 4 Dec; Arran 1000 Glen Cloy Nov. Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Migration and counts: Shet, passage 10 May to 4 Aug with up to 6 at many localities, max 35 Lerwick 25 Sep; Fair Isle, max 19 on 30 May; Ork, max 40 Crantit 25 Oct, cream coloured bird Stromness 30 May; Caith, max 45-50 Wick 18 Feb to 2 Mar; Suth, none now Badeall; W. Loth, 83 Bathgate 9 Oct; E. Loth, 150 Haddington 6 Dec; Arg, Treshnish Is, 1 Lunga 8 June; Ayr, 1 Ailsa Craig 29 May. tBarbary Dove Streptopelia risoria Shet, 1 in off sea Virkie 12 May, 1 Dale of Walls 7 June. Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Breeding: Ber, possibly bred Reston. Migration and counts: Shet, up to 6 at 13 sites 17 May -.11 June with up to 3 at 8 sites 30 Aug - 2 Oct; Fair Isle, 11 May - 15 June max 5 on 4 June, 3-4 on 27-29 Sep, 1 on 1 Nov latest ever; Ork, ca 11 from 18 May - 20 Oct; O Heb, N. Uist, 1 Balranald 6 Oct; small numbers mainly on east coast May - June, Sep - Oct; Caith, 2; Suth, Handa 1; E. Ross, Strathconon 1; W. Inv, Rhum 1, Clunes 1; Arg 2; Mull 1; Lan, Libberton 1. Rufous Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis one Barns Ness, E. Loth 2 Oct (A. Brown, R.D. Murray, P.R. Gordon et al)§. Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Breeding: Ber, less abundant Greenlaw; W. Stir very scarce Strath Kelvin. Migration: Shet, first 10 May, none after 2 July; Fair Isle, 1-3 on 15-31 May, none in Autumn for second successive year; W Ross, Kinlochewe 27 Apr; Aber, singles Lonmay 26 Apr, Strathbeg 17 Sep; Perth, Glenalmond 26 Apr; E Loth, 1 Aberlady 30 Apr; Arg, L. Shiel 19 Apr; Dunb, 1 Cumbernauld 23 Apr; Renf, 1 Kilmacolm 25 Apr; Ayr, 1 Rankinston 25 Apr; Arran, first Glen Cloy 18 Apr; Kirk, 1 Hensol 21 Apr. Barn Owl Tyto alba Breeding: Angus, | pr fledged 2 young; W. Loth, increase in sightings; E. Loth, more reported, 2 dead together Longniddry 26 Mar; Ber and Peeb, more reports than usual; Arg, Islay bred; W. Stir, bred Kirkintilloch; Ayr, poor breeding season S. Ayr; Arran, no change at 8 sites; Dumf, reduced after hard weather; Kirk, poor breeding season after hard weather in Jan, 10 sites in one area produced 16 young. Dark-breasted continental race guttata - Shet, 1 Sandwick 10 Nov died next day. Snowy Owl Nyctea scandiaca Again all females. Shet, 3 Fetlar 1 Jan - 15 June with 4 on 24 May, 2 from 16 June - 3 Sep then 3 to end of year, 2 laid single eggs. 1-2 Unst 7 May - 7 June, 1 Ronas Hill 14 Aug; Ork, 1 Evie 27 June. Little Owl Athene noctua E. Loth, 1 pr nested; Ber, 1 St. Abbs Apr and Oct; Rox, 1 Mon- teviot 10 Oct; Dumf, 1 or 2 prs Caerlaverock; Kirk, 1 Laurieston. Tawny Owl Strix aluco Breeding: Inv, 16 out of 20 prs failed to hatch young Glen Urquhart; ‘Fife, very poor breeding season; Midl, 1-2 roosting George Square, Edinburgh; Peeb, bred Portmore; W Stir, decrease 3 prs.to 1 pr Mugdock Wood; Renf, decrease Kilmacolm; Ayr, 2 out of 4 prs reared 5 young Culzean. Long-eared Owl Asio otus Breeding: Angus, 1 pr fledged 3 young Dundee; Perth, 2 prs reared 4 yong Dunning; Midl, pr with young Rosslynlee 6 June - 6 July. Migration and 32 counts: Shet, 6 wintered Tingwall, 1 on 3 May only spring record, 1-2 at 12 sites 12 Oct - 14 Nov, 3 Sullom 7 Nov; Fair Isle, singles on 8 dates 29 Mar - 11 June; 1-2 several dates Oct - Nov, 50n 7 Nov; Ork, max 10 Binscarth 17 Jan and 28 Oct - Dec, max 10 Berstane on 9 Dec, 8 Stromness 8 Nov, 5 St. Ola 3 Dec; Aber, 2 singles on coast 11 May, 6 June, and 4 singles 15 Oct - 6 Nov, 2 Strathbeg 9 Dec; Isle of May, 1 on 9 Oct, 3 on 15 Oct; Dunb, absent from 2 former sites at Cumbernauld; Renf, 1 shot Paisley Moss 20 Jan; max 4 Possil Marsh 22 Feb. Short-eared Owl Asto flammeus Breeding: Ork, a good season max 4 prs Eday; Aber, breeding suspected 24 sites, confirmed at 1; Arg, Mull numbers low after collapse of vole population; W. Stir, 8 prs Campsie Fells; Ayr, 1 pr reared 10 young (2 broods) Barrnill. Migration and counts: Shet, 3 in spring, 1 summered Yell, autumn influx, max 10 Skerries on 2 Oct; Fair Isle, 1-2 regularly 4-30 May, main autumn passage 27 Sep - late Nov, max 23 on 19 Oct; Ork, many more than usual Nov-Dec; Caith, many more sightings; Aber, 31 bird days on coast in Oct; Isle of May, 60n 10 Oct, 18 on 13 Oct; E Loth, 5-10 wintered Aberlady - eens: Ber, many more reports than usual most singles; Ayr, 2 found shot Shewalton Moss Dec. Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Midl, churring Rosewell 1 June; Arg, churring Dunure 4 Jul; Arran 10 prs on territory; Kirk, small numbers in one of usual areas. Swift Apus apus Migration and counts: Shet, 13 May - 3 Oct max 7 Fetlar 7 July; Fair Isle, 18 May - 2 Oct max 10 on 3 May; Suth, 1 Golspie 1 Nov; Inv, 500 Insh 13 Sep; Kinc, 1 Stone- haven 2 Nov; Angus, first Kirriemuir 2 May; E. Loth, 1 Tyninghame 2 May; Rox, 1 Gala- shiels 3 May; W Stir, 1 Cumbernauld 6 Nov; Renf, 1 Lochwinnoch 29 Apr; Ayr 1 Martnaham 26 Apr; Dumf, 1 Dumfries 29 Apr; Kirk, 300 Loch Ken 25 June exceptional. Kingfisher ,Alcedo atthis Breeding: Perth prob bred; E. Loth. prob bred River Tyne; Dunb, bred; W. Stir, bred; Lan, bred several places, Hamilton and Motherwell areas; Arran, 1 Glen Sannox 10 May, Brodick 15 Apr, Glen Cloy 26 Sep; Kirk, decreased River Ken. Outside usual areas: Shet, 1 Hillwell 13-17 Sep; Suth, 1 Dornoch Burn 29 Sep; Inv, 1 Kincraig 28 Oct, 1 Aviemore 4 Nov, 1 Inverness 22 Jan; Aber, 6 records; Angus, 5S records. *Bee-eater Merops apiaster Singles Fair Isle, 4-6 June (N. J. Riddiford, Miss A. Seddon) and Rousay, Ork 7 June (A. J. Deverall, P. E. Wagstaffe). *Roller Coracias garrulus Adult Peel, Selk 28 June - 3 July (A. Glendinning, M. Little, R. D. Murray). *Hoopoe Upupa epops 9 reported: Shet, 1 Whalsay 10-13 Oct; Fair Isle, singles on 8-9 May and 5 Nov; Moray, 1 Drybridge - Buckpool 9 Oct, still near Buckie in late Oct; Fife, 1 St. Andrews 14 Oct; E. Loth, 1 Tyninghame 26 Aug; Ber, 1 Duns 22 Oct; Rox, 1 Hawick 16-17 May; Ayr, 1 Balchriston 10 May. Wryneck Jynx torquilla Breeding: Inv, reported from 5 sites in Speyside; Perth reported from 1 site, Migration: Shet, 1 Skerries 16 May, 1 Geosetter 26 May, influx 20 Sep when singles at 5 sites, also singles Wnalsay 21 Sep, Skerries 25 Sep, Spiggie 27 Sep and Whalsay 2 Oct; hae Alcs singles on 8 dates from 9 May - 6 June and 4 dates in Sep with 5 on 20 Sep and 2 on 2 2Band 27 Sep, the last on 3 Oct; Ork, 1 Papa Westray 29 May; Ross, 1 Kilmuir 14 RL Isle of May, 1 on 11 May, 2 0n 12 May, 3 on 13 May then singles on 14 and 16 May. Green Wosdpeckes Picus viridis Breeding: Inv, reported from 5 sites in Speyside; Banff, prob nested Bridge of Alvah; Aber, reported from 20 sites; Angus, much scarcer than usual; Perth, numbers still low; E. Loth, possible slight reduction; Dunb, W. Stir, Renf, fewer after severe weather; Kirk, apparently decreased. Outside normal areas: Aber, extension of range to Montcoffer, Haddo and Gight; Arg, Coll, 1 Arinagour 7 June. Great Spotted Woodpecker. Dendrocopus major Migrants: Shet, single Virkie 17 May, Whalsay 20 Sep, Aith 11 Oct, Skerries 13 Oct, Kergord 14 Oct and Sandwick 7 Nov, with at least 6 Whalsay 5-15 Oct; Fair Isle, singles 24 Sep, 6-10 and 13 Oct; Ork, singles Hoy 25 33 Oct, Orphir 29 Oct - 1 Nov, Kirkwall 5 Nov, Stromness 20 Nov. Outside normal areas: Aber, Strathbeg 21 Jan, 27 Feb, 24 Oct, 2-3 Nov and 31 Dec, Catterline 28 Nov. *Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla Three: Fair Isle 16-20 Sep (P. Aley, S. J. Cox et al), 25 Sep - 1 Oct, eastern race, (N. J. Riddiford et a/); Scousburgh, Shet 27 Sep - 1 Oct (J. N. Dymond). Skylark Adauda arvensis Breeding: Fair Isle, 50 prs; Ork 10 prs North Fara; Suth, 25 prs Handa; E. Loth, 51 teritories Aberlady; Dunb/Renf, 55% decrease in 3 areas; Kirk, decrease Kirriereoch and Upper Glentrool. Migration and counts: Shet, influx Whalsay 21 Mar; 300 Spiggie 27 Mar; Fair Isle, spring max 270 on 25 Mar, autumn max 570 on 5 Oct; Aber, max 280 Whinny fold 10 Jan; Perth, 55 Killin 3 May; Fife, 1000 + Crail 6 Jan; Isle of May, max 45 on 11 Oct; Midl, 250 Musselburgh 11 Dec; E. Lotn, 580 Tyninghame 6 Jan; Rox, 156 Williestruther 1 Jan; Dunb, 200 Cardross 12 Dec; Renf, 213 Howwood 18 Dec; Ayr, 600 Sandyford 6 Jan; 400 Maidens 18 Dec; Kirk, 720 Mull of Galloway 26 Dec. *Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris Aber, 1 Ythan 13-21 Nov; Isle of May, singles on 12-13 Oct and 18 and 20 Oct; E. Loth, 3 Tyninghame 7-10 Jan, 2 on 14 Nov. Sand Martin Riparia riparia Breeding: Suth, 32 nest holes, S. Kessoch; Inv, increase to 30 prs Glenurquhart; Aber, 19 colonies reported; Midl; 48 nests Eskhill; Rox, 40-50 nests Melrose; W. Stir, 600 nest holes, Drymen; Lan, 50 prs Bishopbriggs; Ayr, 150 prs Steelpark Farm, 68 prs Catrine; Arran, 4 prs Dougrie reared 22 young; Kirk, 100 prs Pulcree, 30-50 prs Piltonton. Migration and counts: Shet, last Skerries 27 Sep; Inv, 1 Insh 25 Mar; Aber, 150 Longside June, 1 Foveran 3 Oct; Perth 2 Dunblane 28 Mar, 200 Menteith 5 Apr; Fife 125 Lochore Meadows 8 Apr; E. Loth, 1 Aberlady 26 Mar, last on 7 Nov; Peeb, 250 Portmore 12 June; W. Stir, 4 Endrickmouth 26 Mar, 500 Kilsyth 22 July; Lan, 1400 Loudon Hill - Dungavel 29 June; Ayr, Culzean 26 Mar; Kirk, 250 Loch Ken 4 Sep; Wig, 2 Stranraer 26 Mar. Swallow Hirundo rustica Breeding: Shet, 4 prs bred; Fair Isle, 1 pr double brooded; Ork, survey located 25 prs, 13 double brooded a total of 121 young reared; Isle of May, 4 prs, 24 pulli ringed; E. Dunb/W. Stir, 56 prs at 13 sample farms similar to 1981. Migration and counts: Shet, last Sumburgh 1 Novy; Fair Isle, main arrivals 7 May - 5 June, max 100 14-15 May; Ork, 1 Burray 15 Apr; Inv, 300 Insh 5 Sep; Aber, last Strathbeg 12 Nov; Ang, last Invergowrie 20 Nov; Perth, first Menteith and Glenalmond 5 Apr, 10,000 Tay reed bed roost 11 Sep; Fife, 1 St. Andrews 23 Mar; E. Loth, 1 Ballencrieff 6 Apr, last N. Berwick 14 Nov; Ber, 500 St. Abbs 8 May, last Ayton 12 Nov; Selk, 1 Yarrow 5 Apr; Arg, 3 Mull of Kintyre 24 Mar; E. Dunb, 2000 roosting Condorrat 12 Aug; Renf, 3,500 Newshot Island 8 Sep; Lan, first Strathclyde Park 29 Mar; Kirk, 600 Loch Ken 4 Sep, Kirkcudbright 1 Nov. House Martin Delichon urbica Breeding: Perth, 50% increase in occupied cliff nests Loch Turret; E. Loth, 28 cliff nests Dunbar; Ber, becoming less common; E. Dunb/W. Stir, census located 209 prs at 17 colonies in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth District; Ayr, numbers down N. Ayr; Kirk, numbers low New Abbey and Dalry; Wig, coastal colonies at Mull of Galloway, Burrow Head and Cruggleton. Migration and counts: Fair Isle, single 3 May, main passage 14 May - 5 June, last 29 Oct; E. Ross, 1 Fearn 9 Apr; Ang, 1 Elliot 12 Nov; Perth, 1 Marlee Loch 8 Apr; W. Loth, 6 Linlithgow 28 Mar, very early; E. Loth, 1 Barns Ness 6 Apr; last 2 Dunbar 15 Nov; Ber, last Bilsdean 15 Nov; Peeb, 250 West Water 3 Sep; Selk, 1 Selkirk 4 Apr; W. Dunb, 150 Tarbert 6 Sep; Ayr, 1 Dunure 24 Apr, 120 Dailly 28 Aug; Arran, 4 Sannox 12 Apr; Dumf, 1 Caerlaverock 5 Apr. *Richard’s Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae Six: Shet, Skerries 23-29 Sep, another 25 Sep, third 7-8 October (D. M. Pullan, E. Tait, P. M. Ellis, P. Fisher), Scousburgh 23-25 Sep (J. N. Dymond); Fair Isle 23-26 Sep and 10-13 Oct (N. J. Riddiford et al). *Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris One Fair Isle 22 May (J. M. Dickson). *Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni One Fair Isle 12-15 Oct (N. J. Riddiford et a/). Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Breeding: Inv, 10 prs Garten; Aber, reported present at 22 sites; 34 Perth, 44 prs Killiecrankie; Ayr, increasing Kirriereach area; Kirk, good breeding season. Migration and counts: Shet, 9 individuals 2-29 May, influx 20 Sep, with max 10 Skerries, last Whalsay 13 Oct; Fair Isle, 1-8 present 3-28 May, daily 14 Sep - 15 Oct max 60 on 20 Sep; Ork, last N. Ronaldsay 18 Oct; O. Heb. 1 singing S. Uist in spring; Inv, first Bunloit 19 Apr; Moray, 2 Dallas 25 Apr; Aber, first Morrone 19 Apr; Perth, Dunalastair 14 Apr; Isle of May, last 12 Oct; Midl, 1 Bonaly and 1 Glencorse 24 Apr; E. Loth, first 23 Apr; Ber, 1 St. Abbs 6 Oct; Peeb, 2 Portmore 14 Apr; Arg, passage Mull of Kintyre 3 Aug - 15 Sep max 40 on 6 Sep; Dunb, 1 Glencryan 17 Apr; Lan, Dungavel 18 Apr; Kirk, 1 Hensol 16 Apr, last Gate- nouse of Fleet, 15 Oct. Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Breeding: Fair Isle, 25 prs; Suth, 45-55 prs Handa; Isle of May, 1 pr bred; E. Loth, decrease from 32 to 21 territories; Aberlady, E. Dunb, decrease 100 to 60 prs Palacerigg; Ayr, good season Kirriereaoch. Migration and counts: Shet, first Skerries 21 Mar autumn peak 250 Sumburgh 12 Sep, last Spiggie 12 Dec; Fair Isle, spring max 200 24 Mar, autumn max 325 on S Sep; Inv, influx Speyside 18 Mar; Aber, max 450 Inverugie 9 Sep; Pertn, 300 grounded by bad weather Killiecrankie 2 May; Isle of May, max 200 on 1 Oct; Mid], 400 Gladhouse 13 Sep; E. Dunb, max 250 Palacerigg 11 Sep. Rock Pipit Anthus spinoletta Breeding: Fair Isle, fewer young fledged; Suth, 22 prs Handa; Isle of May, 25 prs reared 115 young; E. Loth, 4 prs Bass Rock; 6 prs Ailsa Craig. Migration and counts: Fair Isle, influx early Sep, max 300 6 Sep; Ork, 62 North Sanday 8 Feb; Mid], 1 inland at Cobbinshaw 16 Oct; W. Stir, 1 inland at Carron Valley Reservoir 17 Oct. Scandinavian /ittoralis Aber, 2 Ythan 7 Mar, singles Girdleness 10 Mar, Whitehills 13 Mar; Kinc, Nigg 8 Apr; Ayr, 1 Turnberry 28 Feb and 2 Apr. Water Pipit spinoletta Midl, 1 Gladhouse 24 Oct, 1 Musselburgh 28 Nov; Arg, Mull 1 Speinne Mor 19 Feb; Ayr, 1 Doonfoot 30 Nov. Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima Breeding: Fife, may have bred Fife Ness; E. Loth, pr + 3 flying young seen in late June at Musselburgh, pr at 1981 site but disturbance prevented breeding; Dunb, pr reared 2-3 young Endrick Mouth; W. Stir, pr reared 2-4 young Balfron, 1 pr Fintry 8 July; Lan, survey located 23-28 prs, 11 successful prs reared 28 young; N. Ayr survey 22-23 prs, 12 successful prs reared 40 young. Migration: Shet, first Skerries 25 Apr, last Spiggie 23 Oct; O. Heb, 1 Balranald, N. Uist 14 May; Aber, First Don 24 Apr with 8 on 30 Apr; Isle of May first 21 Apr; Midl, first 2 Musselburgh 22 Apr; Ber, first St. Abbs 26 Apr; Lan, 35 Caldermill 26 Aug; Ayr, 44 Dunlop 29 July. Blue-headed Wagtail flava: Fair Isle, singles on 30 May - 1 June and 6 dates 21-28 Sep; Fife, 1 Fife Ness 16 May; male West Dykes 22 May; Male Libberton 14 June. Grey-headed Wagtail thunbergi Snet, 1 Clickimin 18 May, 2 Fetlar 23 May, 1 Skerries 27 May; Fair Isle, singles 18-19 May and 26-28 May, 2 on 29 May, 1 on 11-12 June; Aber, 1 Grey-neaded or Ashy-headed cinereocapilla Bridge of Dee, Aberdeen 13 May; Ayr, male Greenan 8 May. Asny-headed Wagtail cinereocapilla Isle of May, 1 on 15 May. Black-headed Wagtail fe/degg Shet, 1 Skerries 5 June. *Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola One Fair Isle 13-15 Aug (N. Riddiford et a/). Grey Wagtail Moracilla cinerea Breeding: Ork, Hoy pr fledged 1 young, decrease in breed- ing population after severe winter noted Perth, Midl, W. Loth, Mull, Dunb, W. Stir, Kirk; Rox, 6 prs in Melrose survey decrease from 8 prs in 1981; Lan, 6 prs E. Kilbride district; Arran 16 prs produced only 3 young. Winter records: Ork, 2 St. Ola 5 Feb; Caith, 1 Wick 17 Jan; Aber, 1 Crimond Jan, singles at Crimond and Fraserburgh in Feb; Perth, 2 prob over-wintered Perth; Ber, 1 Eyemouth Jan. Migration and counts: Shet, 1 Burravoe 22 May, 1 Scalloway 4 Nov; Fair Isle, singles 3 June, 10 Oct and 21 Oct; Aber, first back inland 2 Kemnay 13 Mar; Arg, passage at Mull of Kintyre 10 July - 22 Sep, up to 20 per day 16-19 Sep; Ayr, 7 Dipple 25 Sep; Wig, 4S. Portpatrick 26 Sep. Pied/ White Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrelli Breeding: Ork, breeding reported 6 areas; Perth, numbers down; Isle of May, 5 prs, 21 pulli ringed; Forth Islands, 2 prs Bass Rock, E. Loth, 8-9 prs Loganlea - Flotterstone; Rox, 10 prs Melrose survey site; declines reported Dunb, W. Stir, Renf, Arran, Ayr 50% decline Upper Minnock; Kirk, decrease Loch Ken. a5 Counts: Moray, 600 Kinloss 26 Aug; Ang, max 136 roosting Overgate complex Dundee 20 Dec; Dunb, 337 Condorrat 25 Oct; W. Stir, 125 Dumbreck 1 Sep; Renf, 170 Lochwinnoch 6 Sep; Arran, decline since 1981. White Wagtail alba Breeding: Shet, 1 pr bred Haroldswick, pr alba x yarrelli bred Fetlar; Fair Isle, 2 prs reared at least 7 young; Caith, pr alba x yarrelli Crosskirk 16 may. Migration: Shet, max 14 Foula 4 May and 16 Lerwick 19 Aug; last Lerwick 17 Nov; Fair Isle, first 4 Apr max 17 on 8 May and 70 on 20 Aug; Aber, max 22 Don 2-5 May; Ayr, 25 Croy 6 May. Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Fair Isle, singles 12 Oct and 1 Nov; Ork, 1 Ophir 8 Nov, 1 Kirkwall 10 Dec; Caith, 1 Wick 1 Jan, 1 Thurso 26 Jan; Inv, 1 Badachro 1 Jan, 20 Newton- more 4 Jan, 2 Drumnadrochit 19 Jan - 25 Feb, 4 Nethybridge 31 Jan, 1 Garten 1 April; Aber, 1-4 recorded at 8 sites in Jan, 2 sites in Feb, 2 sites in Mar with 2 Aberdeen 30 Oct; Ang, Dundee 1 on 11 Feb, 10 on 4 Mar, 6 on 30 Mar and 1 on 6 Apr; Fife, 1 Newburgn 19 Jan; Midl, 6 Edinburgh 14-16 Jan, 1 Penicuik 17 Feb; Ber, 6 Eyemouth 5 Jan; Rox, 1 Kelso 28 Jan; Selk, 1 Tweedbank 2 Feb; Arg, Mull, 1 Dervaig 7 Jan; Belmont 1 on 9 Jan, 3 from 15-22 Feb, 1 Ayr Dec; Arran, 1 Brodick 17-21 Jan. Dipper Cinclus cinclus Breeding: Caith, slight decrease; Angus, prob fewer on smaller burns; Fife, 1 Morton Lochs, 24 Feb first record; Peeb, apparent decrease compared to 1970’s; Rox, Melrose 4 prs at survey site; Rhum, numbers low; Arran 9 prs; Kirk, decrease in Glenkens area. Black-bellied Dipper cinclus Ber, 1 Thornton Loch 28 Nov. Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Breeding. decrease reported most areas, Inv, Garten reduction from 32 prs in 1981 to none; numbers reported normal from Ang, Rhum, Mull, Arran, Borders and parts of Kirk, Migration: Fair Isle, influx 11-25 Oct; Isle of May max 20 on 14 and 15 Oct. Shetland Wren zetlandicus Fetlar, 55 singing males. Fair Isle Wren fridariensis 16 singing males, increase from 1981. Dunnock Prunella modularis Breeding: decrease reported Fife, parts of Midl and Rhum; Dunb/Renf decrease of 32% at 4 sites. Migration: Shet, very scarce; Fair Isle, very scarce in spring, 1-4 on 24 dates 19-27 May, meagre autumn passage 24 Sep - 28 Oct, max 25 on 11 Oct; Aber, 10 Rattray 5 and 12 Oct; Isle of May, influx mid Oct, max 150 on 15 Oct; Ber, St. Abbs 15 on 25 Sep, 30 on 11 Oct and 60 on 12 Oct. Robin Erithacus rubecula Breeding: decrease after bad weather Ang, parts Midl, Dunb/ Renf where 25% decrease at 4 sites and parts of Kirk where 5 found dead after night of severe frost in Jan at Forrest Lodge. Migration: Shet, influx 20 Sep when 100 Sumburgh and 2-3 Oct; Fair Isle, spring passage 9 Mar - 1 June max 14 on 8 May, in autumn 70 on 20 Sep, 70 on 3 Oct and 65 on 12 Oct; Ork, spring influx Sanday 28 Mar - 3 Apr, autumn influx 25 Sep - 30 Oct max 20 Holm 13-14 Oct; Aber, 30 Balmedie and 30 Drums 11 Oct, 40 Cruden Bay and 30 Rattray 12 Oct, 50 Rattray and 70 Strathbeg 15 Oct; Isle of May massive influx mid Oct, 4000 on 11 Oct, 2000 on 12 Oct, 4000 on 13 Oct; Fife, 500 Fife Ness 11 Oct; E. Loth, 200 Barns Ness 13 Oct; Ber, St. Abbs 25 on 3 Oct, 30 on 9 Oct, 80 on 11 Oct, 120 on 12 Oct, 800 on 13 Oct; Arg, passage Mull of Kintyre 15 Aug - 6 Nov, max 60 on 16 Sep. *Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Shet, male singing Norwich 17 May. Nightingale sp. /uscinia or megarhynchos Fair Isle, 1 on 23 May; Fife, 1 Balcomie 14 Oct. Bluethroat Luscinia svecica Shet, singles at 4 sites 15-24 May with 2 Mousa 16 May, and singles at 4 sites 20 Sep - 11 Oct; Fair Isle, singles almost daily 16-25 May, 2 on 17-19 May and 3 on 23-24 May, singles on 24, 26 and 29 Sep and 4 Oct with 2 on 3 Oct; Ork, 1 Sanday 2 Oct; Caith, singles Noss Head. 22 May and 26 Sep; Aber, singles Rattray 5-6 Oct and Foreran 14 Oct; Isle of May, singles on 16 May and 10 on 11 Oct. White-spotted Bluethroat cyanecula Fife, 1 Kings Kettle in spring. Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Winter: Aber, 1 Rattray 7 Feb; E. Loth, 1 Dunbar 12 Nov - 31 Dec. Migration: Shet, 4 singles 19 Mar - 4 June and 16 recorded 22 Sep - 5 Dec. Fair Isle, 1-2 on nine dates 27 Mar - 10 May, daily 17-26 May max 6 on 23 May, 1 on 31 36 May - 2 June, good autumn passage, recorded on 10 dates in Oct, max 4 on 21 Oct and 1-2 on 1-9 Nov with 1 on 27 Nov; Ork, singles in spring Deerness 13 Apr and 13-14 May, 17 records 20 Sep - 13 Nov, max 5 N. Ronaldsay 20 Oct; O. Heb, male Uig, Lewis 18 May; Caith, singles Wick 18 Oct, 6 Nov and 8 Dec; Aber, singles at 3 sites 5 Apr - 16 May, more than usual in autumn singles at 6 sites 8 Oct - 11 Nov with 2 Rattray 17 Oct; Kinc, 1 Girdle- ness 18 Oct; Isle of May, 1 dead 31 Mar, 2 on 7-8 May and 31 May, 1 on 7 June, 2 on 7 Aug, 1 on 12-16 Oct and 1 on 6-7 Nov and 13 Nov; Fife, Fife Ness, 1 on 15 May, 2 on 18 Oct; Midl, 1 Harperrig 8 Apr; E. Loth, singles Barns Ness 7 Apr and 13 Oct, 1 Port Seton 15 Nov; Ber, St. Abbs, 20n 7 Apr, 1 on 9 Apr and 1 on 14 Oct, 1 Dawyck on 13 Oct; Arg, 1 Mull of Kinture 4 Noy; Ayr, 1 Prestwick mid Nev, 1 Barassie 2 Dec; Dumf, 1 Caerlaverock 4 Nov. Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus Breeding: Suth, pairs in most suitable sites; Inv, high numbers maintained Glenurquhart; Aber, records from 13 sites in breeding season; Perth, very common in all suitable areas, better success than 1981, 25 prs reared 155 young in S.W. study area; Kirk, good numbers breeding; Borders, fewer reports. Migration: Shet, 14 birds 16-25 May, autumn passage 20 Sep - Oct, max 10 Whalsay 25 Sep, last Lerwick and Walls 9 Nov; Fair Isle, in spring 1-4 on several dates from 4 May - 7 June, in autumn daily 19 Sep - 20 Oct, max 25 on 20 Sep and 20 on 13 Oct; Ork, influx 21 Sep - 25 Oct max 9 Sanday 26 Sep; O. Heb, S. Uist, 1 Druidibeg 20 Oct; Inv, first Garten 21 Apr; Aber, first Glen Quoich 18 Apr, in autumn 46 bird days 25 Sep - 2 Oct on coast; Perth, first Killiecrankie 23 Apr; Isle of May, max 50 on 11 Oct; E. Loth, first Drem 8 Apr; Ber, autumn passage 18 Jul - 26 Aug and 6-17 Oct max 10 0n 12 Oct; Lan, 1 Blantyre 5 Dec; 2 Lamlash 11 Nov; Kirk, first Hensol 16 Apr. Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Breeding: Aber, repor'ed from 16 sites; Dunb/W. Stir, little cnange but increase from 22 prs to 27 prs Palacerigg; Arran, decrease from 35 to 25 prs; Kirk, good numbers. Migration: Shet, scarce in spring, 2 Skerries 7 May, 1-3 at 6 sites 14-27 May, in autumn major fall south mainland 20 Sep when 220 Sumburgh/Scatness, small influx 2 Oct, last Baltasound 1 Nov; Fair Isle, spring first 4 May, almost daily 14 May - 4 June, max 8 on 14 June, autumn daily 6 Sep - 19 Oct, max 150 on 20 Sep, 70 on 2 Oct, last 23 Oct; Ork, influx 20 Sep - 3 Oct max 10 Sanday 22 Sep; Suth, 1 Handa 3 May; Inv, first Tulloch 28 Apr; Aber, first 3 Glen Tanar 3 May, in autumn 64 bird days on coast 18 Sep - 20 Oct; last Collieston 13 Nov; Isle of May, max 10 on 11 May; Ber, St. Abbs max 7 on 19 Sep; Ayr, first Troon 19 Apr; Arran, first Narachan 19 Apr. Stonechat Saxicola torquata Breeding: numbers reduced after hard winter in many areas; O. Heb, apparent recovery in numbers; Suth; steady return of population; Aber, only reported from 4 sites; Ang, very scarce; Perth, even fewer than 1981; Midl and W. Loth both showed declines; Ber, coastal pairs disappeared; Rhum, decrease; Arg, Mull very scarce; Islay population survived well; Renf, decline, only 1 breeding record; Lan, declined; Ayr, reduced to 6-7 prs; Arran, decrease from 34 prs to 15 prs; Kirk, only slight recovery, numbers generally low. Migration: Shet, 7 spring records 17 Mar - 3 May, 2 autumn records 25 Oct and 23 Nov; Fair Isle, 6 in Feb and singles in Mar, Apr; May; Aber, 18 bird days on coasr Oct, 10 in Nov and 9 in Dec. Siberian Stonechat maura/stejnegeri Shet, singles Skerries 6 Oct (ET), Whalsay 24-25 Oct (BM, ISR) and Sumburgh 9 Nov (MSC); Fair Isle 10-12 Oct; Aber, 1 Rattray 9-15 Oct (KBS, CRM, RCP). Wheatear QOenanthe oenanthe Breeding: Fair Isle, 60-71 prs; Suth, Handa 32 prs; Midl, decrease from 43 prs to 23 prs Moorfoot Valley; W. Stir/ W. Renf, probable increase; Lan, good numbers in Dungavel area; Ayr, increase in north; Arran, 23 prs. Migration: Shet, first Skerries 8 Apr, autumn large fall 20 Sep when 110 Sumburgh, 100 Scatness, last Boddam 14 Nov; Fair Isle, first 4 Apr, spring max 200 on 8 May, last 3 Nov; Aber, first Long Haven 29 Mar, last Don mouth 12 Nov; Ang, first Arbroath 8 Mar; Perth, first Sma Glen 28 Mar; Isle of May, first 28 Mar, max 50 on 20 Sep; Midl, first Musselburgh 26 Mar last there 7 Nov; E. Loth, 3 Aberlady 25 Mar, 75 on S Apr, last Gullane 12 Noy; Peeb, first 5 Mar; Arg, first Islay 27 Mar; Ayr, last Doonfoot 8 Nov; Kirk, first Forrest Glen 21 Mar. Greenland Wheatear /eucorrhoa Shet, Foula 4 May and Eshaness 18-19 Sep; Fair Isle, first in autumn on 1S Aug max 200 on 18 Sep; Aber, 1 Rattray 2 May, 47 bird days 12-18 May, 2 Foveran 3 Oct, 2 Newburgh 6 Oct; Kinc, 1 Girdle Ness 10 Oct; Fife, 8 Kilrenny 11 May; Ber, St. Abbs 9 on 4 Apr, 7 on 9 Apr, 8 on 10 May; Dunb, male Endrick Mouth 9 May, female on 15 May; Ayr, 1 Ladykirk 10 May, 1 Doonfoot 3-4 Oct. 3/ | | | ! | | *Grey-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus One Voe, Shet 19-20 Oct (C. Robson et al). Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus no changes breeding status. Early @ Kerloch, Kinc 27 Feb; 2 Moorfoots, Midl 27 Mar and various sites 28 Mar, 15 Clova 9 Apr. Migration: Fair Isle peak 9 on 7-8 May; Foula 4 May; small influx O. Heb May-June incl 6 L Drudibeg; 1 Canna, Inv 7 July, Ist since 1931. Autumn migration: Fair Isle 20 Sep - 14 Oct, peak 20 on 11 Oct; Isle of May max 30 on 13 Oct. Late records Tarfessock, Ayr 2 Nov; Birse, Aber 9 Nov and several Buchan, Kirk 16 Nov. Blackbird Turdus merula Breeding: 36% decrease in breeding prs Dunb/Renf studies; single prs reared 4 broods Whalsay, Shet and St. Ola, Ork. Migration: Shet, max 300 Sumburgh 10 Nov; Fair Isle, poor spring, max 50 on 18 Mar, return from 2 Oct, peaks 300 on 20th, large falls 5-13 Nov, max.2000 on 6th; strong passage same time down E coast; Isle of May peaks 1500 on 13 Oct, 2000 on 17th, 5000 on 5 Nov; E. Loth, 500 per hr Barns Ness 5S Nov. *Black-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis A male Fair Isle 13 Oct (J. N. Dymond, Miss A. Prior). Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Breeding: One pr bred Inv, 4 young in nest 12 July; one pr nested Shet, 5 eggs on 8 July but failed; summer records in Ork 21 June; Suth, 23 July (2); Inv, 22 July (2); Aber, June (2); Dunb, 31 July. Winter and spring: Shet, influx 3 May, max 350 Foula 4 May; Fair Isle, main passage 3-9 May, max 95 on 4th; Suth, 30 Handa 3-6 May; E. Loth, 6000 Gullane early Jan; Borders, 250 Halmyre 7 Apr. Autumn: Fair Isle Ist 2 on 8 Aug, mainly mid Oct - mid Nov, max 1600 on 20 Oct and 2200 on 7 Nov; big numbers throughout mainland mid Oct; 2000 Insh, Inv 20-23 Oct; Isle of May peaks 1000 on 13 Oct, 4000 on 17 Oct; Arg, peak passage Connel 1500+ per hr 8 Oct, 2000+ per hr 9th; Renf, 1050 Cumbernauld 25 Oct. Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Breeding: Midl, about average 13 sites Roslin (15 in 1981); 31% decrease Dunb/Renf from 13 to 9 prs at 2 sites; Suth, 1 pr reared 4 young Handa. Migration: Shet, scarce spring, peak 100 Sumburgh 14 Oct; Fair Isle autumn peaks 400 on 13 Oct, 600 on 19th; Caith, 100 Wick 18 Oct; Aber, 100 Cruden Bay 17 Oct; Isle of May, 700 on 1 Oct, 2000 on 13th, 1000 on 17th. Redwing Turdus iliacus Breeding: Shet, 1 pr reared 6 young Unst; Suth, 12 prs and 6 other sites with song; Ross, 8 prs or song at 5 sites, 1 pr proved nesting; N. Inv, 8 prs nested and another 16 prs or song at 10 sites; S. Inv, 5 prs nested and another 12 prs or song at 11 sites. Winter and spring: Shet, small influx 3-4 May when 40 Foula; Ork, 300 Sandwick 2 Jan: very scarce mainland areas after severe weather; Borders, 280 Eddleston 22 Apr. Autumn: Shet, from 20 Sep, max only 1200 Whalsay 17-18 Oct; Fair Isle from 20 Sep, peaks 1500 on 13 Oct, 3000 on 19th; Inv, 8000 passed Garten 23 Oct in ‘2 hr, main passage 13-22 Oct Highlands; Aber, max 3300 Cruden Bay 17 Oct, SOOW Peterculter 24 Oct; Isle of May, 3000 on 12 Oct, 10000 on 13th, 7000 on 17th; main influx in West 10-14 Oct, 23 Oct - 3 Nov. Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Breeding: numbers down and Apr/May snow probably affected early broods. Migration and counts: Shet, 4 singles in spring, 5 in autumn; Fair Isle 4 in spring, small numbers 10-27 Oct, max 5 on 14th; Ork, max 3 N.Ronaldsay Oct; O. Heb, singles Harris 14 Mar and N. Uist 6 Nov; Aber/N. Kinc, 220 Blackhall Sep; Perth, 105 Killiecrankie 5 July; Isle of May, max S on 11 Oct. *American Robin Turdus migratorius A O Foula, Shet 3-16 Nov (Mrs S. Gear et al). *Lanceolated Warbler Locustella lanceolata Three singles Fair Isle, 13-15 Sep, 23-24 Sep and 6 Oct (N. J. Riddiford et a/). Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Breeding: some reports low numbers. Arrivals: 25 Apr, Lochwinnoch, Renf and Endrick Mouth, Dunb; 27 Apr, Midl and Dumf. Migration: Shet, 1 Skerries 17 May and 25 Sep - 6 Oct; Fair Isle, 29 May, 1-2 on 12 days 20 sep - 13 Oct. *River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis Two Fair Isle, Ist Y 22 Sep and adult 24-26 Sep (N. J. Riddiford et al). 38 | Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Breeding: Suth, noted increase Dornoch; increases noted Gladhouse, Midl; Aberlady, E. Loth; Kelvin valley, Dunb; Kilmacolm, Renf but decrease Lochwinnoch, Rent. Arrivals: 6 Apr, Locnmaben, Dumf; 16 Apr, Glengavel, Lan; 25 Apr, Lochwinnoch, Renf, mostly from 7 May. Migration: Fair Isle, strong spring passage 12 May - 9 June, max 18 on 25 May; autumn max only 4 on 20 Sep, singles 3 other days to 9 Oct; Isle of May, max 15 0n 16 May; last St. Abbs, Ber 12 Oct. *Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris 4 in spring, 3 in autumn; Fair Isle, singles 3 June, 7-8 June, 3 July; Isle of May 19-20 Sep; Fife, Kingsbarns 14 Oct; Wig, (singing Go’ ) Logan Gardens 22 May, Mull of Galloway 16 Sep. Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Shet, singles Fetlar 13 Sep, Skerries 26 Sep; Fair Isle 14 May, 2 on 18 the, daily to 28 May, one 6 June, singles 4 and 28 Aug, 8-11 and 21 Sep, 2 on 26-27th, one 28th, 2 on 3 Oct, 3 on 4th, one 5-6th, 1 dead on 17th; Ork, Papa Westray 15 Sep, Deerness 20 Sep, Holm 22 Sep, 6 0n 26 Sep, 2 on 28th, singles 30th and 2 Oct; Aber, Newburgh 26 Sep, Don 3-5 Oct, Rattray 5 Oct, Drums 10 Oct; Perth, Errol singles 14 Aug, 27 Aug and 4 Sen: Isle of May 5 Aug, 10 Oct; Ber, St. Abbs 2 Aug, 8 Aug, 11 Sep, Pease Bay 8 Oct. *Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina 4 in spring, 14 in autumn Shet, Whalsay 31 May, Skerries 2 June, Walls 16 Aug, Ireland 30 Aug, Bressay 3-5 Sep, Veensgarth 9 Sep, Whal- say 13 Sep, Sumburgh 20 Sep and Baltasound 5 Oct; Fair Isle, 31 May, 31 Aug; Ork, S. Ronaldsay 7 June, Birsay 28-29 Sep; Caith, Wick 18-20 Oct; Aber, Foveran 25-29 Sep; Isle of May 5-6 Aug; Ber, St. Abbs 31 July, possibly same 5-6 Aug. *Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta Two: Skerries, Shet 23 Sep (DMP) and Isle of May 19-22 Sep. *Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans Q Walls, Shet 15 Aug (P. J, Ewins, P. Fisher, J. D. Okill) was in full moult so probably remnant from spring migration. *Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria Poor year, about 33 between 7 Aug and 14 Oct. Shet, Whalsay 23 Aug, 9 birds between 3 and 22 Sep in Whalsay, Skerries and Fetlar, one Sumburgh 20th; Fair Isle 27 Aug - 6 Sep max 4 on 6th, one on 8th, 2 on 16-19th, singles 20th, 24-25th, 2 on 30th, 1 on 3 Oct; Ork, 1 Holm 2-3 Oct; Suth, 1 Melvich 14 Aug; Isle of May 7-11 Aug, 6 Sep, 8-9 and 11 Oct; Fife Ness, 6 Sep; E. Loth, Barns Ness 10 Oct and 14 Oct; Ber, St. Abbs 12 Oct. Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Breeding: E. Midl, 10 singing Cousland/Ormiston and 1-2 prs bred Old Pentland; E. Loth, probably bred Aberlady; Selk, pr with 3 young Melrose 27 June appears to be new record for county; Ayr, single o' o’ 3 areas in May, 1 in Aug; Dunf, song at 2 sites. Migration: Shet, 22 between 14 May and 5 June, 6in autumn 21 Sep - 4 Oct; Fair Isle, small numbers 4 May - 15 June, max 5 on 4 June, scarce in autumn 6 Sep - 13 Oct, max 3 on 6 Sep; Ork, 1 on 23 Sep; O. Heb, 1 S. Uist 26 Sep; small numbers down E coast May - June, Sep - Oct; Isle of May 12 May - 6 June, max 8 on 15-16 May, scarce in autumn 14 Aug - 12 Oct; last Cruden Bay, Aber 15 Oct. Whitethroat Sy/via communis Breeding. small increase noted in W; 1 pr bred Scalloway, 6 young fledged 1 Aug. Arrivals: 22 Apr Torphins, Aber; S May Isle of May, mostly from 6-7 May. Migration: Shet, poor year; Fair Isle 8 May - 3 July, max 8 on 19 May, 26 Aug - 13 Oct, max 8 on 25 Sep; O. Heb, Stornoway 1 June, S. Uist 20 Sep; Isle of May, poor year, max 8 on 12 May; last St. Abbs, Ber 14 Oct. Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Breeding: continued increase Aber, Strathspey and Glen- urquhart, Inv. Arrivals: 16 Apr, Billiemains, Borders; 23 Apr St. Abbs; 25 Apr 2 sites Aber; 32 mainly from 7 May. Migration: generaily low numbers: Fair Isle, 15 May - 10 July, max 4, S Aug - 13 Oct, max 25 on 25 Sep, late singles to 12 Nov; Isle of May, max 50 on 11 Oct. Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Breeding: usual status Borders to Inv, singing O'G's N to Ork. Migration: Shet, peak 35 Skerries 25 Sep; Fair Isle, 5 May - 9 July, max 6 0n 8 June, autumn 29 Aug - 12 Nov, max 35 on 30 Sep, 150 on 11 Oct; Aber, strong coastal passage Oct, max 70 Rattray 15 Oct; Isle of May, influx 80 on 10 Oct, increased to 600 on 11th, down to 300 on 12th, peak of 1000 on 13th, down to 100 on 14th. Summary of winter records: Jan Feb Mar Dec North (Shet-Inv) 1 0 0 6 Central (Moray to Forth-Clyde) 8 4 0 17 South (Forth-Clyde-Borders) 14 8 2 22 *Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides One Sumburgh, Shet 24 Sep - 1 Oct (J. N. Dymond, P. J. Ewins, R. Hargreaves). *Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis Three: Fair Isle, adult 3 July and 1st Y 24 Aug (N. J. Riddiford et a/); one Whalsay, Shet 25 Sep (B. Marshall). *Pallas’s Warbler Phylloscopus. proregulus Unprecedented influx, 55-60 birds recorded between 6 and 31 Oct, mainly 11-15th. Shet, about 17, Skerries 6th, Kergord 9th, Voxter 9-11th, Sullom 9th, Whalsay 10-11th, Fetlar 11th, 5 Sumburgh 12th, 2 Voxter 16th, Kergord 19th, Voe 19th, 2 there on 20-22nd; Fair Isle, one 6th found dead 7th, singles 8 and 10th, 10+ on 11th, 2 on 12th; Ork, 2 Windwick 14-15th, singles Berstane 15th and 31st, 1 Rackwick, Hoy 15th; Caith, Stirkoke 9-10th, Harpsdale 13th, Wick 13-19th; Aber/N. Kinc, Rattray 9-10th, Strathbeg 12th, Girdleness 11-12th, Cruden Bay 13-15th, Newburgh 13-14th, Drums 15-17th; Isle of May, 2 on 11th, 1-2 on 13th; Fife Ness, 3 on 11-12th; E. Loth, Dunbar 13th; Ber, Pease Bay 11th, 4 St. Abbs 11-12th, 2 on 13-16th, Eyemouth 11th. *Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus 18 records 23 Sep - 22 Oct; Shet, singles Walls 23-24 Sep, Scalloway 2-3 Oct, Kergord 9-11 Oct, Norwick 10 Oct, Sunburgh 12 Oct, Veensgarth 20 Oct; Fair Isle, 1-2 on 2-12 Oct, one 22nd; Ork, Deerness 25 Sep; Caith, Stirkoke 8-10 Oct; Aber, Drums 6-7 Oct, Cruden Bay 9-11 Oct; Isle of May, 7th and 10th Oct; Lan, East Kilbride 16 Oct; Kirk, Palnure Burn 9 Oct; Ber, St. Abbs 12 Oct. *Radde’s Warbler Phylloscopus schwarzi Three: Shet, Catfirth 10 Oct (J. D. Okill et ad); Ork, Kirkwall 10 Oct (E. J. & S. J. Williams et al), Holm 17 Oct (E. R. & T. R. Meek et al). *Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus Two: single Isie of May 7 Oct (G. L. A. Patrick, D. Palmer et al)§; Ber, St. Abbs 11-14 Oct, possibly 2 on 12th (W. T. Appleyard D. J. Bates, Mrs F. Evans, R. D. Murray). Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Breeding: above average numbers Inv, Perth, Ayr and Kirk, good success Inv. Arrivals: 14 Apr Billiemains, Borders; 17 Apr Culzean, Ayr, 24 Apr, Renf, mainly mid May. Migration: Shet, 6 in spring, 3 in autumn; Fair Isle, 5 in spring, 40n 6 Sep, 2 other singles; Ork, singles June, Aug and Sep; last record Easthaven, Angus 13 Oct. Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Breeding: No changes noted. Arrivals and passage: Shet, scarce 16 Mar - early June, scarce autumn, max 6; Fair Isle 7 Apr - 12 June, max 8, 18 Aug - 7 Nov, max 80 on 11 Oct, 50 on 13th, many northern birds; Ork, max 20 Holm 15 Oct; Aber, strong fall, many northern birds in Oct, max 100 Rattray 15 Oct; Isle of May, 30 on 10 Oct, 200 on 11th, 100 on 13th; Ber, peak 28 St. Abbs 12 Oct incl 12 northern birds. No records Jan - Feb; 8 singles in Dec Shet-Borders. Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Breeding: slight increase Dunb/Renf 127 prs at 4 sites (119 in 1981); decrease in Mid] (28 prs from 33 prs one site in 1981); very good numbers N. Suth; Ork, 1 pr bred Firth and singing birds 11 sites. Arrivals: 1 Apr Hensol, Kirk; 2nd Kilmacolm, Renf; more from 4th and into N by 14th. Migration: Shet, small numbers, max 17 in spring, 21 in Sep; Fair Isle, 6 Apr - 1 June, max 15 on 19 May, 14 Aug - 40 15 Oct, max 50 on 6 and 20 Sep; Isle of May, scarce, max 40 on 12 May, 50 on 23 Aug; last Berstane, Ork 31 Oct, but very late bird ringed Howwood, Renf 29-30 Nov. Goldcrest Regulus regulus Breeding: survived winter reasonably well, small decrease noted, eg Garten, Inv CBC 19 prs (25 in 1981). Massive immigration E coast mid Oct; Shet, rather scarce, max 60 Kergord 20 Oct; Fair Isle, max 200 on 11 Oct but big numbers from Aber S; Angus, 1000 Montrose 12 Oct; Isle of May. 500 on 10 Oct, incredible 15000+ on 11th, 5000 on 12th, 2000 on 13th; Fife Ness, 1500 on 11th; E. Loth, 2000 Barns Ness 13 Oct: Ber, 2000+ St. Abbs 11 Oct is very conservative estimate, 1100 on 12th. The whole coast reported large falls and this influx was even noted in the W, eg Howwood, Renf 23 Oct. *Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus Two: Shet, one Wnalsay 14 Nov (BM, ISR); Arg, Mull of Kintyre Lt Ho 4 Nov (EJM). Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Breeding: usual numbers; pr bred successfully Kirk- wall. Arrivals: 7 Apr, Reston, Borders, 11th Lochmaben, Dumf; then none until 7 May. Migration: Shet, very scarce this year; Fair Isle 15 May - 8 June, max 11 on 30th, very poor return, only 3 singles in Oct; last Cruden Bay, Aber 15 Oct. *Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva Two in spring, 22 in autumn. Shet, singles Skerries 24-27 Sep, Kergord 26 Sep and 19-20 Oct, Vidlin 13 Oct, Voe 23 Oct; Fair Isle, 9 on 23 May, 3 on 6 Oct, one 7-8th, 9th.(2), 11th; Ork, Wideford 25 Sep, Holm 10-15 Oct; O. Heb, Carnan, S. Uist 20 Oct; Caith, Wick 7-9 Oct, Skaill Forest 11 Oct; Suth, 2 Durness 30 Oct; Tarbatness, Ross 6 Oct; Aber/N. Kinc, Girdleness 13 Oct, Newburgh 14-17 oct, Strathbeg 17 Oct; Fife Ness 16 May; Ber, 2 St. Abbs 9 Oct, one 10-11th. Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Breeding: numbers on low side; in SW Perth 27 prs fledged 155 young: improvement Glentrool. Arrivals: 24 Apr, Craigie Park, Ayr; 27th Ancrum, Borders; mainly late Apr - early May. Migration: Shet, very poor year, max 22 Sumburgh 20 Sep; Fair Isle, 1-3 on 11 days in May, small passage 20 Aug - 12 Oct, max 60 on 20 Sep; Aber, poor year; Isle of May, extemely poor, max 3 on 6 Sep; last Wick, Caith 29 Oct. Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Breeding: numbers only slightly down after cold winter. Counts: 52 Gosford, E. Loth 23 Jan; Arg, 5 Coll 25 Oct; Ayr, 46 Martnaham 26 Dec: 2 Eddleston, Peeb 4 Jan were pale-headed and resembled northern race. Marsh Tit Parus palustris Borders, reported from usual nesting areas. Willow Tit Parus montanus Usual numbers in the south-west also Ber areas, suggesting extension of Northumberland population. 1 Craigallion, W. Stir 14 Nov. Crested Tit Parus cristatus Breeding: good year Culbin, Moray SO young fledged trom boxes, incl 2 prs rearing 2 broods; Inv, Garten CBC 19 prs (18 prs in 1981) so severe weather had little effect; S Insh 4 Aug is unusual. Coal Tit Parus ater Breeding: 27 prs Garten, Inv CBC (33 in 1981). Singles Stornoway 23 Apr and Langass, N. Uist 22 Oct were Ist for 10 years in O. Heb. Blue Tit Parus caeruleus Breeding: scarce Glentrool; Dunb/Renf, 33 prs at 3 sites (SO prs in 1981); Midl, 26 prs Roslin (41 in 1981); very low Culbin, Moray and decrease Garten, show effects df severe winter. Big numbers at beech mast in Nov/ Dec; 250+ Garscube, Lan 27 Nov. Migrants: Shet, Lerwick 10-18 Oct, 2 Quarff 14 Oct, Scalloway 17-24 Oct; Fair Isle, one S Oct, last since 1962. Great Tit Parus major Breeding: some decreases reported. Counts: 200+ on beech mast Garscube, Lan 27 Nov. Migrants: Shet, 1 Sumburgh 2 Feb, influx of at least 16 from 30 Sep, max 6 Whalsay 5-13 Oct, 4 into 1983; Fair Isle, 2 on 6 Oct; Ork, 4 singles 25 Oct - 31 Dec. Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Breeding: no real changes. Migrant: Kergord, Shet 30 Oct - 31 Dec. 41 *Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus Fair Isle, O 4 June; Ork, Eday 5 June; O. Heb, G Lewis 3 June; Inv, 1-2 OInsh-Kincraig 11 May - 1 June; Perth, Blair Atholl 2 June, Strathardle 21 June; Borders, Q St. Boswells 25 July. *Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Summer records: Inv, 2 in one area 1 June, @ in another place 17 May but no proof of nesting. Migration: poor year; Shet, 6 in spring 23 May - 5 June, 6 in autumn 25 Sep - 7 Oct; Fair Isle, cS 1-10 June, 2 in July, 4 singles 4-16 Sep; Ork, singles Sanday 23 May, Deerness 25 Sep; Caith, Wick 17 May; Isle of May, 17 May, 2-6 Aug, 20n 7 Aug. Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Winter-spring singles Burnmouth, Ber 10 Jan; Belly- mack, Kirk 3 Mar; Wideford, Ork 29 Apr and Haroldswick, Shet 14 May. Nearly 100 birds in autumn-winter; summary of reports Shet (13) mainly Oct; Fair Isle, Sep (1), Oct max 3 on 20-21st, Nov (1); Ork, 11 between late Sep - 14 Nov; Caith, (2) 11-17 Oct; Suth, (4) 30 Oct - 9 Dec; Ross, (1); Inv, (7); Moray/Banff, (3); Aber/ N. Kinc, (16) from 11 Oct; Angus/Perth, (2); Isle of May, (4) 11-22 Oct; Fife, (2); Loth, (8); Borders, (10) max 4 St. Abbs 14 Oct; Arg, (1); Clyde, (3); Kirk, (5); Dumf, (1). *Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator One juv Fair Isle 20 Sep (J. M. Dickson et al). Jay Garrulus glandarius Probably continued increase: Inv, singles L. Garry 20 May, L Arkaig 21 May - 4 June; 1 Haddo, Aber 12 Dec. Magpie Pica pica Breeding: many areas, mainly S, report increases. Max counts 125 Pollok, Renf 17 Jan and 51 Howwood 16 Feb. 1 Fife Ness 18 Sep; 1 Fannich Lodge, Ross 28 Mar. Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Survey revealed 141-175 birds (53-61 breeding prs) on Islay; 23 (6-8 prs) on Jura, 1 pr on Colonsay and 7-11 (1-2 prs) Kintyre making a total Scottish population of 171-211 birds (61-72 nesting prs, 3 helpers and 46-64 non-breeders). Jackdaw Corvus monedula Counts and passage: Shet, 150 Kergord 7 Feb; Fair Isle, max 4 on 13 Oct; Ork, 500 Stenness 5 Dec; 2000 Balgaveny, Aber 12 Dec; 4 Isle of May 15 Apr. Rook Corvus frugilegus Breeding: Ork, 1347 nests is 40% increase on 1975; O. Heb, 213 nests Stornoway is 19% increase on 1975; Midl, 4.5%, Dunb/Renf, 8%, increases on 1981. Migrants: Fair Isle, few Apr - May, max 6 on 20-21 Apr, daily 27 Oct - 15 Nov. Crow Corvus corone Carrion Crow E. Dunb/W. Stir, 184 nests Kilsyth, 3.6 prs/km’; Aber, north passage 9 Apr - 7 May Peterhead, max 26 on 25 Apr; O. Heb, singles Balranald 8 May, S. Uist 9 Dec; Ork, 1 paired with Hoodie nested; 2 prs nested Fair Isle, where max 12 on 22 Apr. Hooded Crow Shet, 400 Sullom 21 Sep; 1 Isle of May 10 Apr; Kirk, 1 Mossyard 9 Sep. Raven Corvus corax Shet, Fetlar Ist eggs 14 Mar, 3 out of 7 prs failed due to Fulmars; Fair Isle, influx 18 on 10 Mar; Ork, 26 prs nested Mainland; Aber, increase inland sightings; Inv, only 2 prs nested Spey Valley area; Kirk/Wig, decrease continued; but increase Arran. Starling Sturnus vulgaris Fair Isle, peaks 420 on 24 Mar, 540 on 7 Apr, 160-180 prs bred very successfully, autumn peak 740 on 11 Sep; Isle of May, peak 400 on 3-6 Nov; Ber, 600 in off sea St. Abbs 12 Oct. *Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus Adult 9 Wyre, Ork 31 Aug - 7 Sep (D. Gotts, E. R. Meek). House Sparrow Passer domesticus 1 Copinsay, Ork 14 May; hybrid x Tree Sparrow Fair Isle through year. Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Breeding numbers generally low. Migrants: Shet, 1 Skerries 3 June, 3 Yell 13 July, 1 to 20th, 1 Spiggie 12 Dec; Fair Isle, 1-2 from 21 Apr - 8 June, singles 6 days Sep - Oct; O. Heb, 4 Benbecula 19 Jan; Caith, 6 Tister 21 Nov. 42 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Breeding: Dunb/Renf, 21% decrease; Midl, no change Roslin; Inv, 33% decrease Glenurquhart, decrease Garten 65 prs from 77 prs in 1981; Suth, very good breeding season; Ork, 1 pr reared young Rousay. Migration: Fair Isle, very poor spring, max 6, return from 17 Sep,.max 275 on 3 Oct; Isle of May, max 150 on 13 Oct. Counts: max 1200 Carruthmuir 11 Dec; 1 summit of Ben Macdhui 24 Sep. Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Breeding: Highlands, one pr nested, fledged 5 young by 1 July (1st successful nest for U.K.); Q feeding 3 fledged young in another area 5 July; birds seen at 5 sites (1 pr, 3 singing 0 dh, 29 G ); also 1 singing & Loth 9 May. Winter and spring: Shet, small influx 3 May; Fair Isle, influx 3 May, max 39 on 7th, some to 1 June; Borders, 500 Ravensneuk 13 Mar but generally low numbers Mainland. Autumn: Fair Isle, from 20 Sep, mainly mid Oct, max S00 on 11th, 350 on 13th; Inv, very large number flocks 300-500 Loch Ness side/Inverness Nov/Dec; Isle of May, 400 on 11 Oct, 300 on 13th; numbers low in south. *Serin Serinus serinus One Fair Isle 30 Sep (N. J. Riddiford er al). Greenfinch Chloris chloris Migration and counts: Shet, singles Mar, Oct, Nov (2); Fair Isle, 1-2 on 4 days Apr/May, few Oct - Nov, included 11 on 7 Nov; Caith, 230 Forss 10 Jan; Midl, 500 Gladhouse 7 Mar; 1000 Bowdenmoor, Borders 31 Dec. Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Breeding: several reports of decreases. Migration and counts: Shet, 1 Whalsay 14 May,-2 Quarff 9 Oct; O. Heb, small influx Jan (15 birds); Suth, 16 Lairg 7 Feb; Isle of May, 22 on 14 Oct; Fife Ness, 46 on 7 Oct; E. Loth, 150 Tyninghame 8 Oct. Siskin Carduelis spinus Breeding: Kirk, good year Glentrool; Inv, 25 prs Garten CBC (31 prs in 1981). Counts and passage: Fair Isle, poor year, 1 on 22 Apr, autumn max 15 on 6 Oct; Moray, 180 Rothes 30 Dec; Isle of May, max 150 on 13 Oct; Arg, 100 Grasspoint, Mull 24 Aug. Linnet Carduelis cannabina Breeding: Dunb/Renf, decrease from 25 to 12 prs at 2 sites. Counts and migration: O. Heb, 2 North Rona 20 Oct; Suth, oO Handa 28 May; Isle of May, max 10 on 3 Oct; Midl, 1000 Musselburgh 20 Sep - 20 Oct. Twite Carduelis flavirostris Counts: Fair Isle, peak 480 on 5S Oct; Ork, 400 Holm 28 Nov; Suth, 150 Rogart 24 Jan; Fife Ness 38 on 15 Oct; Borders, 10 Lindean 5 Dec; Ayr, 450 Girvan Mains 31 Dec; Wig, 120 Mull of Galloway. Redpoll Carduelis flammea Breeding: generally lower numbers. Counts and passage: E. Loth, 150 Aberlady 13 Jan; Aber, 200 Morrone 26 Nov; Inv, 250 Insh 21 Nov; Fair Isle, 10 on 20 July. Mealy Redpoll C.f. flammea: 1 pr bred Voe, Shet, 3+ young fledged by 16 Aug, Ist record for Shet. Migrants: Shet, small numbers spring and autumn; Fair Isle, small numbers Feb - Nov; Inv, 15 Longman Bay 7 Jan; Aber, singles Collieston 6 Nov, Monymusk 26 Dec; Isle of May, 4 on 5-10 Noy. Greenland Redpoll C.f rostrata: 1 Fetlar, Shet, 15-17 Jan—only record. *Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni Two: Fair Isle 15-16 Oct; Isle of May 12 July (M. W. Fraser, H. Galbraith et a/). Crossbill Loxia.curvirostra Breeding: good numbers Borders; Arg, pr nesting Islay 9 Apr; Angus, better year but fewer in Aber; bred N. Suth/Caith. Migrants: Shet, few 20 June - 7 July, max Y Strand 6 July, 1-2 in Oct; Fair Isle, 1-2 on 8 dates 3 July - 13 Oct; Ork, 27 Hoy 25 Oct; Midl, 100 Edgelaw 1 Nov. Scottish Crossbill Loxia scotica Inv, 7 prs bred Garten reserve, max 19 on 19 Feb; rather low numbers also in Deeside; Ayr, pr Ness Glen and pr Brisbane Glen 5 June showed features of Scottish Crossbill. *Parrot Crossbill Loxia pytyopsittacus Influx in Oct was first real invasion since 1962; Shet, 43 Catfirth @ 12 Oct, Voxter 3 OOl Q on 16 Oct, 30°C 3 O99 18th,4002 9D Ih, 1C'on 25th, Strand 2 18-19 Oct, Voe 9 19 Oct; Fair Isle, 1 on 7th, 6 on 8th, Gon 10th, 2 99 on 12th, 9 on 13th, 22 on 8th and 3 on_12th were almost certainly this species; Ork, 1 dead Hoy 29 Oct, 1 Burray 16 Oct; O. Heb, @ and 3 juvs Langass, N. Uist 21 Oct, GN. Uist 30 Oct; Caith, 1 Wick 17 Oct; Ayr, Q Belle Isle 12 Dec. *Scarlet Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus Breeding: 1 pr nested in Highlands, outcome unknown, Ist breeding record for UK. Migration: Shet, Whalsay 16-23 May, Sumburgh 23 May, Virkie 23 May, Skerries 2 June, @ Norwick 10 June, Levenwick 22-23 Aug, Bressay 3 Sep, Fetlar 6-13 Sep, Skerries 13-15 Sep; Fair Isle, 27-28 May, 2 on 30 May - 1 June, 18 June, 26 July, 14-15 Aug, 22nd, 25 Aug - 2 Sep, 26th, 27th (2), 31st, 2 Sep, 5-11th, 5-8th (2), 6-7th (3), 23rd, 24th (2), 25th (3), one to 27th, 28th (at least 11 in autumn); Ork. Holm 6-7 Sep, S. Ronaldsay 2 Oct; Aber, Newburgh 5 Oct; E. Loth, Barns Ness 2-3 Oct; Isle of May, 9 May. Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Breeding: generally lower numbers. Counts and passage: Shet, 4 northern birds in Oct; Fair Isle, 3 northerns 8-12 Oct, 2 to 20th; Ork, 1 in Feb, o Holm 12 Oct, 9 on 13-15 Oct; O. Heb, @ Stornoway 3 July, 2 in Nov-Dec. Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Borders, few more records, then 9 with young on 24 July—I1st proved nesting since late 1940s; E. Loth, bred successfully Ormiston; usual records Loth-Perth; Aber/N. Kinc, 1 Aberdeen 4 Jan, 3+ Banchory 11 Jan - 18 Feb, 2 Newburgh 14 Oct; 1 Wick, Caith 1-2 Jan; 1 Fair Isle 27 May; 1 Mid Walls, Shet 14 Oct. *Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina First-year Holm, Ork 5-7 Sep (E. R. Meek et al). *Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata One Newton, North Uist, O. Heb 22-23 Oct (R. H. & M. T. Dennis, C. H. Pickup). *American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla One ( Q or imm) Portnahaven, Islay, Arg 1 Nov (Mrs P. J. S. Dawson, D. Macleod)—a new bird for Scotland. Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus Migration and counts: Shet, 1 Eshaness 18 Sep, 1-2 Skerries on 5 days 18 Sep - 5 Oct, 1 Spiggie 21 Oct; Fair Isle, spring birds 15 Apr, 7 May, 8th (2), 28th and 3-4 June, daily 9 Sep - 16 Oct, max 10 on 19th, 23rd and 6 Oct, 7 on 19 Oct, one 21st and 3 on 22 Oct; Ork, 2 Stromness 5 Oct; Aber, CO Rattray 9 May; Moray, 1 Burg- head 23 Nov; Angus, CO Eathie early May; Isle of May, singles 25 Sep, 3 Nov; Fife, 2 Methil 8 Jan; Midl, 3 Musselburgh 1-2 Jan, 1 on 6 Feb; E. Loth, 1 Aberlady 21 Jan, different C13 and 22 May; W. Stir, Campsie Fells 13 Nov. Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Breeding: Cairngorms, 3-4 prs in E, good success with some double-broods, some bred in W; W. Inv, 2-5 prs nested, with birds in 4 other sites, at least 2 broods of young seen 21 July; N. Inv/Ross, 1-2 singing O'o' and single bird on another mountain 25 Apr; 3 seen on mountain top on 6 May could have been migrants as 4 on hilltop NW Suth 9 May; 1 9 Suth 13 July. Migration and counts: Shet, passage to 9 May, from 7 Sep, max 180 Scatness 15 Nov; Fair Isle, to 3 June, mainly early May when 14 on 9th, from 8 Sep, max 300 on 12 Nov; Ork, late one Papa Westray 14-17 June; Aber, 280 Cruden Bay 7 Jan; Ayr, 700+ Greenlorg Hill 21 Jan; Kirk, 10 Dalbeattie 11 Jan. Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Migration: Shet, peak 4 Skerries 17 Mar; Fair Isle, 1-2 in Mar, singles Oct when 3 on 19th; Ork, one Sandwick 14 Oct, 7 Nov; O. Heb, 1 Coll, Lewis 1 May, Ist for 11 years. *Ortoian Bunting £mberiza hortulana Eight: Shet, 1 Sumburgh 19 May; Fair Isle, @ 15 May, 16-17th (2), singles 25th and 28th, singles 13-14 Sep, 20-27 Sep and 21 Oct. *Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica Seven: Fair Isle, Q 18May, G@ 23 May, one 2-11 Oct (N. J. Riddiford et al); Shet, G& Whalsay 1S May (B. Marshall, I. S. Robertson), o’ Skerries 27-30 May (P. Fisher, E. Tait), co’ Eshaness 25 May (S. L. Haycox), & Sumburgh 30 Sep (J. N. Dymond et al). 44 *Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla Nine: Shet, Skerries 16-20 Sep, 8-11 Oct (D. M. Pullan, E. Tait), Spiggie 21 Oct (J. N. Dymond), Whalsay singles 22 Oct and 23 Oct (B. Marshall, I. S. Robertson); Fair Isle, 26-28 Sep, 6-9 Oct and 11-12 Oct (J. M. Dickson, J. F. Holloway, N. J. Riddiford et al); Fife Ness, 14 Oct (P. Branscomb, R. W. Byrne, W. Mattingley). *Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola Summer: CO in song Highlands 14 June (P. Mason). Migrants: Shet, Skerries 21 Sep - 4 Oct (D. M. Pullan, J. D. Okill ez a/); Fair Isle, 17-22 Sep (J. M. Dickson, P. M. Ellis er a/). Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Breeding: Kirk, 50% decrease L. Ken CBC; 20% decrease Dunb/Renf 6 sites. Counts: Fair Isle, peaks S on 17 May, 20 on 2 Oct; Isle of May, 30 on 13 Oct. +Red-headed Bunting Emberiza bruniceps CO Fair Isle 10-11 Sep. tBlack-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala Ad Q Fair Isle 12 Sep (N. J. Ridditord etal). Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra Breeding: continued decreases noted Borders, Renf, Angus, Ross and Caith. Shet, 1 Spiggie 23 May was only record so this species all but extinct in Shet; Fair Isle, one 11 Oct, 1st since 1979; 160 Cruden Bay, Aber 14 Jan; 76 Cardryne, Wig 26 Dec. 45 Notice to Contributors Records should be sent to the appropriate local recorders but in cases of difficulty they can be forwarded to the editor. These records should be on one side of the sheet only, well spaced and in species order, following the Voous sequence. The only exception is that Aberdeenshire and north Kincardineshire records should be in place and date order. Observers should consult previous reports for the sort of information required. To avoid duplication of records by the recorders, names of other observers present should be given where appropriate. Notes for the year should be sent promptly, generally in early January, but some recorders prefer more frequent records and regular contributors are asked to consult local recorders about this. Reports of occasional visits to areas outwith the observer’s. regular territory, such as holiday lists should usually be sent to recorders as soon as possible. Records of rarities, including species only locally rare, should be sent to recorders without delay. To save recorders’ (often considerable) time and expense, correspondents should enclose a stamped addressed envelope or indicate that no acknowledgement is required. iy? ¥ fs se AN ane Bird Books from THE BIRD BOOKSHOP at 21 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BT Tel: 031-556 6042 Here are just a few of the new titles available from the BIRD BOOKSHOP. 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