i

The Reading Naturalist

No. 25

Published by the Reading and District
Natural History Society
1973

Price to Non-Members

25p_ including postage

2ee

THE READING NATURALIST

No. 25 for the year 1971-2

The Journal of
The Reading and District Natural History

Society

President:

Mee He He Career. Mone, Bae n, Mellet «

Hon. General Secretary: Hon. Editor:
mass J, Toothill, BSc, Ph.D. Miss &. M. Nelmes
15 Birdhill Avenue Dormers
Reading 194 Cainscross Road

RG2 7JT Stroud
Glos.

Editorial Sub-Committee:

The Editor, B. R. Baker, Miss L. E. Cobb,
A. Price, Miss J. M. V. Housden,
Miss S. Y. Townend

Honorary Recorders:

Botany: nee B. M. Newman, Earley Cottage, 25 Beech Lane,
Earley, Reading

Entomology: Mr. B. R. Baker, 5 Dovedale Close, The Mount,
Cavershan, eadaak

Vertebrates: Mr. H. H. Carter, 82 Kennylands Road,
Sonning Common, Reading

Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire
Naturalists! Trust ;

Hon. County Secretary (Berks.): Mr. B. R. Baker,
The Museum, Reading

CONTENTS

Mr. Vear = 100 years old
Meetings and Excursions, 1971-72

Presidential Address:

Then and Now L. E. Cobb
Bryophytes of Reading M. V. Fletcher

Pigmented progeny produced by two
albino frogs and two successful
back crosses A. Price

A Chub eats Frogs P. Smallcombe

Report on Aston Upthorpe Reserve
1971-72 M. R. W. Sell

Honorary Recorders! Reports:

Entomology B. R. Baker

Vertebrates H. H. Carter

Botany B. M. Newman
Monthly Weather Notes 1972 A. E. Moon
Atmospheric Pollution 1972 A, E,. Moon

Membership

Page

1h.

rai

2h

25

28
34
40

46

4?

48

a ee
Mr. Vear - 100 years old.

Our revered old friend Mr. Thomas Vear, honorary member of the
Society and former President, celebrated his hundredth birthday on
12th March 1972. Mr. Vear has always been a great lover of the
countryside and particularly of its trees. He spent all his working
life in the timber trade and became an outstanding authority on
trees and timber. This knowledge he used to share liberally with

fellow members in talks and on excursions, among which our visits

under his guidance to the grounds of Swallowfield Park are
particularly memorable.

On Saturday 11th March, the President, Miss Joyce Watson and
Miss Dora Mason called on Mr. Vear to convey the Society's congrat-
ulations. He was in excellent health and, although totally blind,
was in sparkling form and irrepressibly cheerful. For an hour he
enthralled his visitors with his reminiscences of his boyhood and
youth and particularly of his travels with his bicycle in Holland, a
country in which he is particularly interested as he believes him-
self to be descended from a Dutchman who came to England in the
1500's in connection with the drainage of the Fens.

We wish him continuing health and happiness in the months and
years ahead.

Liss

2. SS

Meetings and Excursions 1971-72

Miss L. E. Cobb gave her Presidential Address entitled 'Then and
Now! at the Annual General Meeting (attendance 47). Two meetings
were devoted to members! films, talks and exhibits (41 and 47). The
lectures delivered at the remaining indoor meetings were 'Bird life
and Colour', by Dr. K. H. Southall (44); 'The Vegetation of the
Limestone Pavement in the Burren, Eire', by Dr. R. M. Wadsworth (43);
'Natural History of West Java' by Dr. H..J. M. Bowen (45); 'They were
very dry', the study of bones in Archaeology, by Mr. H. H. Carter
(30); 'The World Wildlife Fund', by Mr. P. Craddock-Randall (37); .
'The Work of the Water Resources Board with special reference to
South-East England', by Mr. R. G. Sharp (36); and 'The Emperor
Dragonfly and its African Relatives', by Mr. R. M. Gambles (31). A
talk on 'Succulent Plants of South Africa', by Mr. G. D. Rowley, had
to be cancelled owing to electricity cuts during the miners! strike.

Winter walks were held on December 4th, for birds (17), February
5th, to the Berkshire Downs, also for birds (25), and March 16th for
mosses (16). On November 6th, Mr. R. H. Gambles' garden at Woodley
was searched for beetles and other small invertebrates (9) and Mr. A.
Price held a Microscopical Afternoon on January 8th (11).

The summer field meetings were: April 15th, Stitchen's Hill,
near Streatley, for Hellebores (18); April 29th, College Wood,
Checkendon, for birds (3); May 13th, Bearwood, Peppard (20+); June 3rd,
Professor Harris's garden, Farley Hill, for alien plant species (20);
June 7th, evening excursion to Loddon Valley (12); June 10th, Dry
Sandford and Cothill Reserves (20); June 24th, Watlington Hill, for
chalk flora (19); June 28th, evening excursion to the Historical
Rose Garden, Shinfield Grange (8+); July 8th, Aston Rowant Reserve
(8); July 19th, evening excursion to Dunsden-Caversham area; July
22nd, Snelsmore Common for bog flora; August 5th, reserves at Inkpen
Common for heathland and Ham for chalk flora (30); August 16th, Mr.
Rowley's garden for succulent plants, etc. (20); August 10th, coach
excursion to the Hatchet's Pond area, New Forest (32); September 2nd,
Newbury-Didcot, disused railway line, for chalk flora (16); September
16th, Crowsley Park, Binfield Heath (12); and October 7th, fungus
foray at Kingwood (22).

= 75

Then and Now

The Presidential Address
to the Reading and District Natural History Society
October 1971

When I first applied myself to the problem of choesing a theme
for this address, I thought it might be useful to consider why you had
done me the honour of making me your President. Thinking back to the
conversations that preceded my election, I found that there seemed to
be two reasons. One was that it was feit that it was time the Society
had a woman President again. That did not seem to be a very promising
line. The other was that I had been a member for an extremely long
time. That was better. The population nowadays is very mobile.

There is an immense turn-over of membership and probably not many
present members have any idea of what went on in the Society more than
a few years ago, and I thought it might be of some interest to compare
the Society as it was when I joined it in 1940 and as it is now, to
look at the differences and similarities in the light of conditions
then and now and to see if there are any useful conclusions to be
drawn, any help to guide our steps towards our centenary year in 1981
and the celebrations that we hope will mark it and then beyond.

My original intention was to span just the thirty years of my
own experience, but hardly had I made my choice when the Society's
Minute books came into my hands with their invitation to delve further
into the past and to begin by giving you an outline of the foundation
of the Society and its earliest years.

The Society was founded on 6th April 1881 at a meeting at the
Lodge Hotel at which it was resolved that "this meeting do form itself
into a Natural History Society and Field Club for Reading and District".
The Provisional Committee included Mr. J. L. Hawkins, father of
Professor H. L. Hawkins who was a member from 1921 until his death in
1969 and whose wife is still an active member, so our links with that
little band of enthusiasts who came together to such good purpose
ninety years ago are very close indeed. The element of continuity is
strong, and it is perhaps not surprising that in what I have to tell
you similarities are more striking than contrasts.

On the administrative side: The subscription at the inaugural
meeting was fixed at 2/6. Although this may arouse envy in some of
the members who have queued up to pay their 15/- (I refuse to call it
75 pence) this evening and who now face a further rise in subscription,
I doubt whether in fact we have kept up with the general level of
inflation. In 1886, the cash book showed a balance of £2 14 7, so
that members can feel the satisfaction of knowing that the assets have
multiplied by a higher factor than the subscription.

The first indoor meeting was held in St. Mary's Churchyard, which
does not sound very comfortable - I hope it means St. Mary's Church

House - on Thursday (no change here) 27th November. The subject was
various forms of scrapers, the manner in which they were made, used

and fixed in socketed handles. Themes of subsequent meetings were
British beetles, land shells and local flora, with the accent on the
exhibition of collections in all cases. It is interesting to note the
subjects of these very early meetings and reflect that Dr. Norman Joy,
who wrote a standard monograph on British beetles, was a member for

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many years and that from 1951 to 1953 we had Dr. Hamilton Quick, a
distinguished amateur conchologist, as our President and he published
a key to the land snails of the Reading area in no. 4 of The Reading
Naturalist. Also a’ early as 1882, the medicinal prcperties of plants
were discussed and in the 1940's we had as members the Misses Brett who
kept a herbalists! shop and only two.or three years ago Miss K, Butler,
a member of a well-known local family of Pharmacists, addressed a
junior meeting on medicinal plants. The May meeting in 1892 was on
birds-of Berks and Bucks and the attendance was 12. They were doing
quite well, I think. It is difficult to compare this with our attend-
ance of about 40. We have the advantages of a vastly increased
population to draw upon and improved transport faeilities but must set
against this the pressure of competing interests nowadays.

In October 1882, we are told that it was resolved to hold a
meeting "for conversation and the exhibition of specimens", so although
the present series of Members' Evenings goes back no further than 1953,
the idea is by no means new to the Society. In this respect as in
many others we are building on the excellent foundations laid right at
the outset. Indeed, wkrat would then have been called 'self-help! and
has become 'do-it-yourself' in modern phraseology was the keynote of
those early days. All the lectures in the first years were given by
members, and although it is. undoubtedly right and proper in these
outward-looking days that we should welcome guest speakers to many of
our meetings, yet I am glad that we do not invariably do this and that
at three meetings this session we are to have the pleasure and satis-
faction of being addressed by fellow members.

In March 1883, there was a specimen meeting and microscopes were
brought, but the fact that we had such a precedent does not detract
from the enterprise of those who reintroduced this form of meeting last
winter. The notable change in 1884 was a:movement away from lectures
cn purely local topics to foreign themes - corals, Hyeres, France;
snakes of India; Australia, and Italian Switzerland. In the same year,
a paper was read by Mr. Crosfield of Redhill on the geographical dis-
tribution of wild plants in the British Isles, which puts us in mind
right away of the work in which many of us took part in the 1950!s
gathering data for the Plant Atlas that was published by the Botanical
Society of the British Isles in 1962. In 1885, a paper was read on
Instinct - a very early departure from interest in collection and
identification to the modern outlook’and interest in behaviour. In
1890, there was a Conversazione at the Town Hall for the prize-giving
of the School of Science and Art, and members exhibited collections
of birds' nests, eggs, skins, shells, stuffed birds and animals,
insects and plants. ;

Now to the field meetings in those very early days: The first
field meeting on 14th June 1881 was to Bagshot - not an area that we
frequent now. -It has probably changed a lot and for the worse, but I
do not know whether we should investigate the possibility of visiting
Bagshot in June 1981 as part of the centenary year programme. Other
excursions that summer were to Mapledurha™ and Emmer Green, which have
a familiar ring, and there was a whole-day excursion to Bucklebury
Common. We go a bit further afield on our annual all-day excursion in
this more mobile, outward-looking age, but we visited Bucklebury Common
as recently as last month and very enjoyable it was.

In June 1883, members took the train to Mortimer, spent the after-
noon rambling about the Common and then walked back to Reading via
Burghfield. I cannot imagine us doing that to-day, and perhapa one's

Bie-

first impulse is to feel some shame at our lack of robustness, but
reflecting on the difference between the country to be covered as one
can imagine it was then and the straggling suburbia of to-day, perhaps
we are justified. Other places visited in very early years were
Tilehurst, Sulham, Pangbourne Marsh, Streatley and Shiplake.

As early as 1888 a combined excursion was made with the Literary
and Scientific Society. This brings back interesting memories for me
because in my teens, before I had heard of the Naturai History
Society, I enjoyed many wonderful outings and meetings with the
Literary and Scientific, which I had joined initially on the Literary
side, but in whose Scientific activities I took part with enthusiasm.
It was a flourishing concern then and I wonder how it came about that
our distinguished contemporary did not survive when our own Society,
so much more circumscribed in its interests, managed to come through
the difficult years.

In the same year, a paper on fungi was read and a Fungus Foray
was held. Here indeed is the beginning of a venerable tradition. The
interest of the Society in toadstools has always been strong, as indeed
it should be, considering the distinguished mycologists whose help and
encouragement we have been privileged to enjoy. Dr. Somerville
Hastings, who as well as being a surgeon and politician, was the author
of books on alpine flora and on British fungi (Toadstools at Home), was
a member of the Society for forty years, was its President and finally
an Honorary Member. For thirty years to my knowledge and probably
much longer he was host at his delightful home 'Brackenfell! at
Kingwood Common to our annual foray at which he also led us, as long
as he was able, and identified our finds. Throvgh him, also, the
Forays were often graced by the presence of Dr. Ramsbottom of Kew.
The tradition of hospitality is carried on by Dr. Hastings' son and
daughter-in-law, who still put their home at our disposal and give us
a gracious welcome on our Foray each year. We now generally enjoy the
stimulating leadership of Dr. Hora of Reading University, a distin-
guished mycologist who has been a good friend of the Society for some
thirty years.

The membership appears to have been all male for about the first
ten years. Miss Hurry exhibited shells in 1889, but I suspect she was
only a visitor and Mr. Dowsett gave an account of the shells. Three
ladies were elected members in 1891. Unfortunately there is a long
gap in our records after these first ten years and our next inform-
ation relates to 1913, from which date we have a complete set of
minutes. In 1921, a proposal to add ladies to the Committee was held
over, but Miss M. E. Edmunds was elected in 1922, and in 1925 she
became President. We have had one other woman President, our well-
known friend Mrs. A. M. Simmonds, now Sandels, who served from 1948 to
1951. I know there are some present. who will be interested to know
that Mr. Dolton, whose remarkable collection of micro-lepidoptera is
in Reading Museum, and who was’a member of the Society until his death
as recently as 1968, was already serving on the Committee in 1914.
February 27th 1930 was momentous for the Society, as on that day Mr.
Fishlock was elected to membership. There are still very many among
us who realise the implications of that and who must wonder just what
course the life of the Society would have run if it had not had Mr.
Fishlock to guide its affairs: for twenty-five years. He was elected
one of two joint Honorary Secretaries in 1932 and sole Honorary
Secretary in 1935. He continued in that office until 1953 when he
was elected to the Presidency, handing over the Secretaryship to the
capable hands of Mrs. Hasker - later Mrs. Fishlock - now Mrs, Chandy.

NS

He held the Presidency until 1957 when he was elected an Honorary
Member.

To return to our historical review:- The Sodety kept going
through the difficult years of the 1914-1918 war, with lecturers
drawn mostly from the membership and a number of informal meetings,
visits to view specimens at a member's house and so on, and still
numerous joint meetings with the Literary and Scientific Society.

The exhibition of wild flowers at the Museum began in 1916 and
was apparently largely the work of members. In 1919, the collection
of data in our District for a proposed Flora of the Thames Valley was
under consideration. The setting down of members' observations in
some permanent form or other has naturally enough been a constantly
recurring theme, for this is one of the main functions of a local
Society such as ours. We read in the earliest minutes a suggestion
"that members should be impressed with the necessity of keeping note
books and recording the occurrence of specimens for the general use of
the Society". Here are the fore-runners of our Recorders' Reports,
which are perhaps the Society's most valuable work, though it was not
until comparatively recently that they assumed a permanent form. In
1900, in the middle of the Society's ‘Dark Ages' for which our records
are lost, the Society had produced a little book entitled The Flowering

Plants, Ferns, etc. of the Country round Reading, of which the Society
fortunately has a copy.

By 1920, a lecture by Mr. Frank Comyns of Newbury on British
mosses with fifty varieties exhibited and subsequently put on show in
the Museum attracted an attendance of 50, although the membership at
that time was only 53. This post-war period seems to have been,
understandably, a time of rapid expansion and three years later member-~-
ship was nearly 80. The annual expenditure per member at this time was |
3/8 and the balance had risen to over £10. I was surprised, however, |
to read that at the A.G.M. in 1920 the Secretaries reported that walks
were arranged and held in May and June but that in the latter part of |
July and in August the weather was too unfavourable, and in 1927
"only four rambles were held due to unsettled weather". I do not know )
whether it is a tribute to the improvement in our climate or to the
hardiness of the members, but I am quite unable to imagine two whole
months passing in the summer with no field excursions taking place on
account of weather conditions and it has certainly never happened
during the period of my membership.

This was also a time of serious study, with lectures on such .
specialised subjects as mosses, fungi, etc. Recording groups were set
up in 1922 to collect and verify records with a view to eventual
publication. Recorders were substituted for the recording groups in an
1923. By 1927, affairs looked much less rosy. Modern stresses set in
at this time. Membership had fallen to 59 and it was stated in the
annual report that the records of activities showed "variety but not. |
encouragement" and that "owing to the busy life of mankind to-day,
meetings and rambles must be reduced in nuiber". Monthly meetings and
rambles were decided upon. In 1933, the Society seems to have been in
low water numerically and financially, but there was nevertheless
great activity. An exhibition was held in September to arouse interest,
and the South Eastern Union of Scientific Societies, which we had
joined in 1916 and which was a vital and stimulating body in those
days, held its Congress in Reading at the Society's invitation in 1934. |
A Field Sub-committee was set up to consider forms of field work that
might be undertaken; the formation of a discussion group was proposed

639 «<

in 1935, and it was in being in 1936; a panel of specialists was
suggested; and in March 1933, Mr. Sylvester Bradley, Mime sh epdicbe Ce Po»
proposed an "annual publication containing records of the Society's
work and transactions" cyclostyled at a cost of 2/6 per copy of about
100 pages. This excellent suggestion was warmly received, and had the
matter been proceeded with in the proposed form, we might well now be
preparing no. 40 of The Reading Naturalist instead of no. 24. However,
it was suggested that the South Eastern Union would expect a report on
the Natural History of Reading and District for their Congress in the
following year, grandiose plans were put forward, and in spite of wise
warning notes from many Committee members of the crippling effects of
publications on small societies, Mr. Bradley whipped up guarators for
a printed publication. He chose the name Quaestiones Naturales
because he thought it was impressive. The Committee had misgivings -
alternatives including "The Reading Naturalist" were discussed, but
Quaestiones Naturales it was. The first number was put on sale in
November 1933 at 5/- to members and 5/6 to non-members. It was a
handsome printed publication, but it was never to have a successor in
that form. It had cost nearly £55, and members did not respond as the
rather optimistic svonsor had anticipated they would.

We now reach the point where this address was originally supposed
to begin - the time about the beginning of the second world war when I
joined the Society and about which I can speak from my own, albeit
rather hazy, memory. I suppose the impression of the meetings I
attended in those early years could best be summed up by the word
‘cosiness'. The meeting place was, as it had been for many years, the
Friends' Institute in Church Street, whither we made our way on moon-
lit nights - meetings were once a month and the dates chosen to give
members the benefit of the full moon - and after groping our way
through blacked-out passages, found ourselves in a room with welcom-
ing, padded chairs and well warmed by a cheerful coal fire. I have
nostalgic memories of that fire, even though its flickering light
made it difficult to see the slides very clearly. The atmosphere was
very friendly. I think this has always been a characteristic of our
Society. In those days, it was attributable in great measure to Mr.
Fishlock, who, as I remember one member saying, was a father to us all,
but I like to think that the tradition continues, and I am always
pleased when people say to me, as they do not infrequently, that they
enjoy our meetings particularly because everyone is so friendly. Att-
endances kept up well during those war years in spite of lack of buses,
blackout, home-guard and civil defence duties and the rest. Meetings
were held once a month in winter, sometimes in the afternoon.
Excursions were held every ten days alternately on Wednesday and
Saturday. It is an ill wind that blows no good, and the Treasurer at
least must have been pleased. Balances, which had remained alarmingly
low for many years, benefited from the reduction in the number of
meetings and rose spectacularly.

In my first years with the Society, tea on field excursions was
generally not carried in a haversack or dufflebag, but ordered in
advance at a pub. This was time-honoured practice dating from the
earliest years. In 1889, tea was taken at the Bull Hotel at Goring.

In 1915, it was taken at the Round Oak at Padworth after a walk from
Theale Station, and in the early 1940's we still frequently followed
this programme. As the rigours of rationing increased, it became
impossible to obtain tea and perforce we had to adopt the invariable
practice of carrying it with us. This was bitterly disapproved of by
many of the older members, who regretted the convenience and sociability
of the former procedure, but was of inestimable benefit to the cause of

—- 20 =

serious natural history as there was nothing more frustrating than to
toil up a long lane from the station and arrive in sight of a richly
productive area only to be torn away by the threat of bringing dis-
grace on the party by arriving very late for tea.

Travel in the esideot years seems to have been by train, and so
it was largely when I first went out with the Society in 1940. By
about ten years later we had abandoned the train for the bus, and I
as it were lived right through the exclusively 'bus' age into the era
dominated by the private car. Cars are a mixed blessing, but although
they produce much confusion of organisation and are in some ways
unsociable, they save a long trudge before a place of interest is
reached and they carry our tea, macks, gumboots and equipment and
open many places to us that were formerly inaccessible except by
coach. One must not overdo the nostalgia.

An interesting activity of those war years was the collection of
Atropa belladonna, Hyocyamus niger and Digitalis for drugs. There
was a drying station for Atropa on Streatley Hill, and whole days
were spent enjoyably and usefully collecting the leaves.

I spent particularly enjoyable evenings and afternoons with the
Discussion Group. Transport was always by bicycle and picnic meals
were carried so that the maximum time could be spent on useful
observations. We enjoyed the leadership of such distinguished
authorities as Professor Hawkins, Professor Tom Harris, Dr. Watson
and Dr. Hora. I realise now that the discussion group was the object
of much controversy and was frowned on by many, probably rightly, as
invidious because membership was by invitation. At the time I was

too inexperienced in administrative matters to be conscious of such
things, but I was deeply conscious of the privilege that it was to

attend such meetings and of the benefit as well as pleasure that I
derived from them. I only wish that it was possible for the Society
now to give as much stimulating help to keen young - and not-so-young -
people as we received then. We do our best, but there are difficult-
ies in the way. The group gradually faded out. There have since been
requests from time to time for a study group or continuous study of

an area but no comparable organised activity has ever emerged. A
request in 1950 for some of our winter meetings to be devoted to )
basic instruction in a definite topic was met for a time though not,

I suspect, unanimously approved, and we try to include informative
lectures and field meetings on specialised branches, such as mosses,
lichens, etc. from time to time. |

The most note-worthy achievement of the Society during my member-
ship has undoubtedly been the establishment of its annual publication
The Reading Naturalist, the less ambitious but more viable successor
of the ill-fated Quaestiones Naturales. This was due largely to the
vision of Mrs. Simmonds (now Mrs. Sandels) who was President at the
time and of two keen young student members, L. H. Williams and Paul
Betts. It had long been rightly felt that the Recorders' Reports
should be preserved in permanent form. They had hitherto been
delivered orally, but had no permanence apart from the very abbrev-
iated notes incorporated in the Minutes. In March 1949, a Sub-
committee was appointed to enquire into the possibility of printing |
or duplicating. the Reports, the go-ahead was given the following
month and later in the year The Reading Naturalist no. 1 appeared.

It is a modest but elegant booklet of 20 pages including, in addition
to extracts from the Reports, a series of articles on Pamber Forest
and a note on the Oxford ragwort. It was printed privately at the

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University through the good offices of Paul Betts, who was the son of
the Professor of Fine Art and himself a student in the Department.
Even so, it strained the Society's slender resources, but the Members
were proud of the achievement, showed faith in the future and raised
the subscription from 5/* to 7/6 to finance future issues.

Dr. Hora then suggested that a key to toadstools of the Reading
District that he was preparing should be incorporated in no. 2 and he
would help with the cost. During the year, the proposed key grew to
undreamed-of proportions, and no. 2 ran to 74 printed pages, and
caused considerable financial anxiety at the time, but brought the
Society to the favourable notice of a wide readership. The edition
finally sold out and paid for itself, and secondhand copies are still
in great demand. With the preparation of no. 3, it was decided that
printing was too costly and the present duplicated form, with the
familiar printed covers, was adopted and has been maintained ever
since. Optimists have periodically raised the question of printing
but it has always been clearly out of the question. Financing even
the duplicated publication was not, and indeed is not, always easy,
but welcome help was received on several occasions in the form of
grants from the Cultural Committee of the Borough Council out of the
profits from the Town Hall Science lectures. Later, we were able to
purchase an old duplicator very cheaply through the good offices of

Mr. Smallcombe and when that wore out to have the use of an electric
duplicator belonging to the Corporation, and do all the running off

and assembling ourselves and so effect a considerable saving. The
Publication has now reached 23 numbers with the 24th in preparation,
a high standard has been set, largely by Mr. D. Leatherdale and Miss
E. M. Nelmes, who between them have held the Editorship for close on
twenty years, and I think it is held in what I believe to be deserv-
edly high esteem. The reading of Recorders! Reports at a meeting was
dropped in 1959. A Preliminary List of Berkshire Micro-fungi by Dr.
Harold Owen was published es a supplement to The Reading Naturalist
in 1960.

Over the years, members of the Society have been involved in data
gathering for a number of other publications or projected publications.
I have mentioned The Flowering Plants, Ferns, etc. of the Country
round Reading published in 1900. It was for many years a cherished
project of Miss Kathleen Butler, the Recorder for Botany, to revise
this publication. That particular plan never came to fulfilment in
the anticipated form, but the knowledge gained in preparation for it
stood us in good stead when many of us subsequently co-operated in
Squarebashing, as it came to be known, or the assembly of data ona
grid basis, first of all for the Atlas of the British Flora published
by the Botanical Society of the British Isles in 1962, then. for Dr.
Humphrey Bowen's Flora of Berkshire published in 1968, and currently
for the projected Flora of Oxfordshire. A few members also put ina
lot of very hard work on projects for the Chiltern Research Committee
which was set up in 1959 to survey various aspects of the natural
history of that rich and rewarding area, and the tangible results
produced included A Survey of Chiltern Orchids by Mrs. Vera Paul
issued as a separate publication, and Mr. Cyril Leeke's paper on

muntjac in no. 22 of The Reading Naturalist.

I have seen considerable fluctuations in the Society's fortunes
and although the decade 1946-56 saw the birth of the publication, a
successful Exhibition lasting nearly a month in September 1946, stands
at two short Exhibitions arranged by other bodies and a further highly
successful exhibition in July 1956 to mark our 75th birthday, never-
theless membership and attendances at times fell so low that we

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feared for our very existence. However, the birthday exhibition
marked the turning point, membership passed the 100 mark a couple of
years later and two events that occurred in 1958 set us still more
surely on the upward path. One was a. highly successful Congress of the
South Bastern Union of Scientific Societies held in Reading that year
and voted one of the best ever. The second was a change in our place
of meeting. When the Friends' Institute could no longer accommodate
us, we had met for a short while at the Abbey Gateway and then for
many years, through the good offices of Professor Hawkins, at the
University. In 1958, the University could no longer find space for

us and we were generously offered accommodation in the China Room of
Reading Museum. Though many regretted the severing of the close link
we had had for so long with the University, there was soon no doubt of
the beneficial effect of the more central position on attendances.
London Road, though very convenient for a few, was inaccessible to
many. After one season here, we had outgrown the China Room and were
granted use of the Art Gallery to accommodate our greatly increased
audiences,

There followed what must certainly be considered our boom years,
with the Society more flourishing than ever before. Membership, bank
balances and attendances at winter and summer events were all on the
increase. The Young Naturalists' Evening organised in conjunction
with the Museum at the Town Hall as a part of the S.E.U.S.S. Congress
in 1958 was repeated as a highly successful annual event until 1970.
The winter walks, a pleasant and still well appreciated addition to
our programme, were started in 1959. The Junior meetings for children
aged up to about twelve were begun in 1961 and still continue. For
this reawakening of interest we must certainly in part thank the
influence of nature programmes on Radio and Television, even if we did
suffer from the late arrival at meetings of members who had been
listening to the Archers. The general arousing of consciousness of
the threats to the countryside and wild life also played a large part
and continue to do so. We cannot expect alwavs to ride the crest of
a wave and as you have heard our membership graph has bent downwards,
but attendances continue to be satisfactory and discussions lively,
lectures are of a very high quality and records flow in. I think it
is justified. to consider that this excursion into the past ends on a
note of cheerfulness and reasonable optimism.

I hope it has been of some interest in its own right, bringing
back happy memories to a few and filling in an empty background for
many, but what can we learn from it for the future? The main outline
of our activities over nearly a century has remained surprisingly
constant, though with a satisfying growth. We still meet regularly in
the winter months to hear lectures by members or visitors on natural-
history topics of local or broad interest or to study exhibits and
engage in discussion, but the frequency of our meetings has increased,
the oxy=hydrogen lantern gave way to the epidiascope, and that now
has yielded place to the film projector. We still go out into the
field to enjoy and to learn, but aided by modern transport or forced
by creeping urbanisation we uenture further, and we go out more often
and in winter as well as summer. No major change is called for in
these directions, I feel. We have established a journal of high
standard to perpetuate the Recorders! reports and the results of
members' research and observations and must strive to maintain and
even improve it.

The main difference is in the type of activity. In the early
years, the Victorian period, the emphasis was all on collections,

al

ex

whether of pressed plants, birds' eggs, shells, stuffed skins of birds
or mammals or carefully set insects. Without the reference collections
painstakingly built up in those days, the precise identification that
is the basis of all biological work could not have been done. You
cannot make any useful observations about an organism's behaviour or
associations without first knowing what it is. But this amassing of
specimens must not be needlessly repeated, and much harm was done
before this was realised. As early as 1918, Dr. Stansfield in his
Presidential Address on "Objects of Nature Study" deprecated the
making of large collections as this "often causes a logal insect or
plant to be exterminated".

The serious student of little-worked groups obviously must still
collect. Others should turn their attention to the study of living
plants and animals in their environment, for only by helping to build
up a clearer understanding of the conditions that they need to thrive
can we help the cause of conservation, which must be the aim of every
true nature-lover in these threatening days. The recording to which
I have referred is a contribution in this direction, but the need for
information is boundless and the time at our disposal short.

I will quote to you a few lines from H. N. Southern's President-
ial Address to the British Ecological Society in January 1969.
"Knowledge about ecological processes comes only gradually and pain-
fully. The naturalist's flair and enthusiasm are essential in helping
to make realistic models of ecological systems and to adjust and
refine them. We must always value the naturalist's capacity for
extensive, often co-operative, investigation: demonstrated for example
in the Nest Records Scheme of the B.T.O., which gives valuable compara-
tive information about the breeding arrangements of a species on a
countrywide basis over many years. Perhaps even more fundamental is
the ability of a network of observers to collect and organise inform-
ation about the distribution and history of species. This is a task
quite beyond the more specialised research worker but may provide him
with essential background knowledge. Moreover, this particular kind
of cataloguing of knowledge must underlie management plans for nature
reserves and for land use generally."

Here, then, I am sure, is our task. How can we best set ourselves
to it? I leave you to meditate upon this problem and discuss it in
its many branches. There are certainly great opportunities. We are
at this moment being asked for the benefit of our local knowledge and
experience in planning conservation in the proposed Loddon Recreational
Park. We must anticipate that this type of call upon us will recur.
There are also great difficulties. Two of the latter force themselves
upon our attention - or perhaps they could be better regarded as two
aspects of the same difficulty. They are the exigencies of modern
life and thelack of leisure it brings in its train. People with the
time to devote to regular observation'‘in the field are scarce, but much
scarcer are people with the necessary training to lead and guide them.
The situation is complicated by the relation between B.B.O.N.T. and
ourselves. Our roles are different and complementary. The function
of the Trust is to draw on the goodwill, resources and skills of the
committed - ours to cast the net wider, draw in the curious and the
eager, and help, encourage and stimulate them so that they join the
ranks of the committed. For this we need an ample supply of skilled
leaders, and for the dwindling time and energies of such people we find
ourselves heavily in competition with the Trust, which it must be our
aim to help and support to the limit of our power. Help us then to
recruit new members - but help us especially, those of you who have

= =

the opportunity, to recruit leaders - and one and all give us all you
can spare of your time, energies and skills and a little of what you

cannot spare.

iL. E. Cobb.

Bryophytes of Reading

by M. V. Fletcher

The mosses of towns, unlike the flowering plants, do not form a
distinctive group. The species are few, all are native to Britain,
and most grow as well away from towns. They do however form distinct
communities which appear to be widespread in towns.

An account of Reading mosses seems worthwhile for two reasons.
First, in Inner Reading, defined rather loosely as the area of old
buildings, devoid of natural or semi-natural vegetation, the species
in mest habitats are so few, and their appearance so predictable,
that a beginner should find their identification easy. Notes on the
appearance of the commonest species are given with this point in mind.
Second, some species and communities give a fair indication of the
level of atmospheric pollution, especially by sulphur dioxide, and
have recently attracted increasing attention for this reason.

To help beginners, the account will start by describing the
poorest habitats, nearest to the centre of the town. Acrocarpous
mosses, with close-packed, erect, unbranched or little-branched stems
are characteristic of such places. Pleurocarps, with creeping or
freely branching stems, and liverworts, are described later. The
rich and distinctive Thames-side flora is well represented in the
town, and is briefly mentioned near the end. No complete list of
bryophytes is likely to be possible for a large built-up area, since
secluded private gardens are likely to provide the richest hunting
grounds. Also, while I have seen over seventy species within the
Borough boundary, even this list is likely to be incomplete, and many
are in any case restricted to small areas in appropriate semi-natural
habitats which happen to be technically within the Borough. The.
selection of species mentioned is therefore a.little.arbitrary.
Habitats which will be considered in detail include roofs and wall-
tops exposed to drought and the direct impact of rainwater, damp
(usually vertical) wall bases, pavement cracks, waste ground, mown
turf, and moist soil, paths and brickwork among trees or sheltering
walls.

COMMON ACROCARPOUS MOSSES
Walls

In central London, where sulphur-dioxide levels average 200
microgrammes per cu. metre over the year at some gauges, mosses are
probably absent from the tops of exposed walls. Sulphur-dioxide
levels measured at the old University site in Reading averaged 70 ug.
per cu. m. over the period 1962-1966. (2) Levels in parts of Reading
are likely to be higher. In some areas, especially among small

a 2S =

close-set Victorian terrace houses, as near the Oxford Road, many
brick walls appear devoid of moss. However, even here three species
will soon be found. These are Ceratodon purpureus (Hedw.) Brid.,
which forms dull green tufts, with narrow leaves, tapering and
slightly curved to one side when moist, yellow-green and twisted when
dry, Bryum argenteum, Hedw., with silvery, catkin-like shoots, and
Tortula muralis, Hedw., with wide, blunt leaves, ending in a relatively
long white hair. It is grey and hoary when dry, vivid yellow-green
when moist.

Ceratodon purpureus is the most adaptable, indeed one of the
most ubiquitous British mosses, growing in many natural habitats. In
towns it can colonise surfaces too barren for the other species, such
as slate roofs, and can tolerate considerable shade. It is the most
abundant species, for instance, under trees on the retaining wall of
St. Laurence's churchyard. It can form large luxuriant masses in old
gutters and similar wet but dirty habitats.

Bryum argenteum is rather rare in completely natural habitats,
but abundant in towns. It seems only to flourish where dust or grit
accumulates, and where intermittent waterlogging occurs. it is thus
not particularly luxuriant on walls, though it can colonise the
driest and sunniest places.

Tortula muralis is an uncommon plant on natural rocks, but ocours
over most of the world on bricks, cement or mortar. In the centre of
Reading it has a distinctive habit which suggests it may be due to
acid rainwater. It is usually seen not on the tops of walls, but on
the sides just helow the top where much of the water reaching it has
percolated through or down the mortar. It may occur among tufts of
the previous species under trees, or on oolitic limestone. Around
Cemetery Junetion, Coley and lower Caversham it can be found in small
amounts on the mortar tops of many walls, and it grows more freely
among the other species where these collect calcareous cement or
mortar dust. In outer suburbs, such as Woodley, this species grows
freely, not only on mortar, but also on bricks.

These three species, often growing together in varying propor-
tions, form the great bulk of the moss in all dry habitats in Reading.
Dr. Gilbert, in a paper on bryophytes of Newcastle (1), describes the
first two as the only ones able to survive where the annual concen-
tration of sulphur diex-de SO, exceeds 170 ug. cu. mi., and mentions
the appearance of Tortula muralis and Bryum capillare Hedw. among them
as characteristic of areas with annual average concentrations between
70-130 ug.fcu. m. Other species are mentioned as beginning to occur
where sulphur-dioxide levels are 40-50 ug./cu. m. In Reading other
Species will be found as near to the centre as Gosbrook Road, King's

Road, and the top of Castle Hill. In their most urban stations,

these are however confined to wall-tops of oolitic limestone, a sub-
stratum not mentioned in Dr. Gilbert's account.

Grimmia pulvinata (Hedw.) Sm. forms dense hoary cushions. The
leaves, like those of Tortula muralis, have a white hairpoint, but
are dark green, and appear narrower and more tapering. Capsules are
usually present; when moist they are tucked among the leaves, each on
a tiny curved seta. This plant is confined to walls and rocks. It
will not be found on soil. There are fine colonies on the exposed
limestone pillars of King's Road. It occurs on wall mortar in the
Craven Road - Erleigh Road area and away from towns will colonise

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brick, its behaviour thus parallelling that of Tortula muralis. There
are some small fertile colonies on gritty calcareous cement at the
south end of Watlington Street which have increased in the past three
years.

A beginner should reeognise these plants with ease. He is
likely soon to encounter species of Bryum other than Bryum argenteun .
So long as he looks ‘only at the tops of walls, and in Reading, he
likely to meet only two, Bryum capillare and Bryum caespiticium Hedw.
Both are larger than anything described so far, with concave, trans-
lucent, dull green leaves, tapering to a short hair which is usually
greenish rather than white, and arranged in a rosette. They form
tufts on mortar, or sometimes a luxuriant turf on level wall-tops
which hold water after rain. The leaves of Bryum capillare are broad-
est at the base. Bryum capillare appears to be the commoner in
Reading. Typically it has leaves twisted in an elegant spiral when
ary.

Orthotrichum diaphanum Brid. is an inconspicuous plant, of a dull
dingy green. Through a lens the leaves are seen to have a tiny white
hairpoint, and capsules, hidden among the leaves, are usually present.
Most Orthotrichum spp. are epiphytes, and have become extinct or rare
over most of Berkshire and Oxfordshire as a result of air pollution.
Orthotrichum diaphanum has been seen in minute quantity on a willow
trunk near Reading Bridge, but is far commoner on walls. Extremely
small tufts have been noted on mortar near Gosbrook Road, and on a
cement pillar in Watlington Street. It becomes common in Kendrick
Road, preferring the shade of trees, sometimes on limestone or gritty
cement wall tops, but more especially on vertical or overhung sides of
walls where water trickles off the limestone cappings. Here it forms
wide but patchy and rather moribund mats, unmixed with any other moss.

In Kendrick Road, Priest Hill, and more rarely in other suburbs
with older houses and many trees, some pleurocsarpous mosses | will be
seen on walls. They will be noted later.

It may seem strange that the damp brickwork at the base of walls
supports a different flora. The main difference is that the source
of water here is fairly constant. Tortula muralis is common in such
habitats, usually at the edge of the damp areas, even in parte of the
town where it is rare on the tops of walls. Ceratodon purpureus seens
scarce except where there is some soil, or water runs down from broken
guttering. Bryum argenteum may occur where grit is splashed up.

Leptobryum pyriforme (Hedw.) Wils. has very narrow silky green
leaves, good material looking like green felt from a distance. It
develops in summer, and in winter almost or quite disappears. It is
rare in natural habitats, but is a common weed among potplants.
Observations by my house suggest that it is damaged by the impact of
heavy rain, which would account for its preference for sheltered
vertical surfaces.

Funaria hygrometrica Hedw. has curious bud-like shoots that are
unlikely to be noticed on damp walls until the relatively large lop-
sided fruit is produced. Though renowned as a colonist of ashes and
burnt ground this plant will grow in a variety of moist basic
conditions.

Bryum bicolor Dicks. is similar to Bryum argenteum in size, Of
little larger, and not of a silvery colour. Familiarity with the

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appearance of previously mentioned species of Bryum should make it
possible to recognise the genus, but this species is variable. Some
varietal states, especially in winter, can be recognised by their soft
yellow-green colour, and by the gemmae tucked among the upper leaves,
visible through a lens. It occurs sparingly on wet wall bases.

A search of damp cracks and bases of walls will reveal many col-
onies of Bryum spp. These may not be readily identifiable beyond the
level of genus, even by the expert. Bryun radiculosum Brid. has been
recorded in some towns, usually on damp sheltered limestone. I have
identified material of this from a wall of the Royal Berkshire
Hospital.

The mosses of pavement cracks are a selection of the species so
far mentioned, though Grimmia pulvinata, Orthotrichum diaphanum and
Leptobryum pyriforme will not be found, and Tortula muralis, while
abundant among cement, is almost or quite absent from tarmac cracks.
Geratodon purpureus, Bryum argenteum and, in the winter at least,

B. bicolor are the most abundant species.

Waste Ground

On waste ground, especially demolition sites, left bare for three
or four years, there is often a substantial moss cover. The species
just listed will be found, together with other unidentifiable species
of Bryum, and occasionally an abundant growth of Funaria hygrometrica.
Among these, and especially on ground shaded by trees, herbs or walls,
some species of Barbula occur.. The three species I have seen on |
waste ground are a bright pale green or yellow-green when slightly
moist (though not when thoroughly wet).

Barbula unguiculata Hedw. has the largest leaf of the three,
2-3 mm. long, and over 1 mm. broad. Barbula fallax Hedw. has a
narrower, tapering leaf, not unlike that of Ceratodon purpureus in
Siapee Barbula convoluta Hedw. often forms a dense carpet of tiny
vivid lime-green plants on waste ground, garden paths, and bare or ©
trampled patches in turf. A different-looking form or variety of this
Species, with leaves up to 3 mm. long, untidily spreading or recurved,
and with wavy margins, (var. commutata (Jur.) ) Husn. grows in small
amounts on mortar-rich soil in my garden, and among calcareous rubble
in a sheltered corner behind St. John's Church, Watlington Street.
It may occur elsewhere. Other species of Barbula may occur in such
places.

Ephemeral mosses characteristic of disturbed soil are very scarce
in Reading, though the lack of opportunities to examine private gar-
dens makes it difficult to generalise. I have no records of even
Fissidens spp. or Dicranella spp. from gardens anywhere in Central
Reading, where the loose dry soil seems unsuitable. I have one record
of Pottia sp. (probably Pottia truncata (Hdew.)) from Furnr. compacted
soil in Shaftesbury Road and on slightly heavier soil have seen
Dicranella staphylina Whitehouse in Alexandra Road and Phascum
cuspidatum Hdew., near Gosbrook Road. The only species likely to be
found on garden soil are the waste-ground plants mentioned. On the

heavier clays of Emmer Green or Whiteknights Park, the soil flora is
richer.

oo |

PLEUROCARPOUS MOSSES
Wallis

None has yet been specifically mentioned. In Central Reading,
none can survive on exposed walls. Camptothecium sericeum (Hedw. )
Kindb., with its glossy golden curved shoots is rare, I have not seen
it in any quantity on walls nearer than Emmer Green, Dunsden and
Sonning. It survives in small amounts on one wall of Reading Abbey,
and on a shaded cement retaining wall in Eldon Gardens. Though char-
acteristically a plant of walls and tree trunks, it grows vigorously
on a variety of substrata at ground level where introduced in my gar-
den in South Street. Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw. is also rare; it grows
on a small section of a cement border to a garden bed in the Forbury
Gardens, on a few limestone tombs in St. Laurence's churchyard, and on
a few walls in and near Erleigh Road and Kendrick Road. It is a
vargaees species and both large and small varieties are found in the
last area.

Pleurocarps which are more typical of Inner Reading are restricted
to a few moist and favourable habitats, such as mown turf, half buried
brickwork in shady places, and sheltered tombstones and low walls. A
good selection can be seen beneath the chestnuts between Reading Abbey
and the River Kennet. In towns one soon becomes aware that these dull
green, untidy and rather undistinguished plants come in three sizesy
The large is Brachythecium r_tabulum (Hedw.) B. & S., the small, with
stems no thicker than fine thread is Amblystegium serpens (Hedw,) B.

& S. The medium plants may give some diffieulty, being either
Eurhynchium praelongum (Hedw.) Hobk., Eurhynchium confertum (Dicks)
Milde, or Brachythecium velutinum (Hedw.) B. & S. The first species,
if at all well grown, has pinnate branches with leaves narrower than
those of the main stems; the others, when not in fruit lack any clear- |
cut distinguishing features, though they usually look rather differ- |
ent. Brachythecium velutinum is the commoner in Reading, with
narrower leaves arranged in a slightly flattened manner, and with stems
forming neater, flatter turts. In the site mentioned all five species
grow together.

Isolated records of pleurocarps include Eurhynchium murale (Hedw. )
Milde on limestone at ground level under trees in St. Laurence's
shurchyard, Rhynchostegiella tenella (Dicks.) Limpr. on shaded lime-
stone debris in the Abbey Ruins, perhaps extinct after raking and.
tidying operations, and Leptodyctium ripa: riparium (Hedw.) Warnst. on
cement garden-bed borders in the Poroury 7 Gardens.

Turf

Dew in Central Reading is not common, and is rarely heavy, but
the water transpired by short turf may be important for some
bryophytes. One rather striking pleurocarp occurs in turf in severed
places in Reading. It is a robust form of Brachythecium albicans
(Hedw.) B. & S., with silky green upright stems. I first saw this on
hard litter-strewn turf in front of a hoarding in Gosbrook Road. It
occurs in several similar places, and is luxuriant in exposed turf in
front of Reading College of Technology.

In shady situations, mown grass may remain moist after a fine
night for much of the following day, even in dry summer weather. Such
conditions occur in a corner of Eldon Gardens, on parts of the Old
University site, in the grounds of Reading School, and probably in

2741.6 «

many private gardens. In these places grow several bryophytes which
would be unlikely to survive in any other habitat in towns. In Eldon
Gardens are Mnium cuspidatum Hedw. and Lophocolea cuspidata Limpr.

In wet turf on the slopes near Alfred Sutton Girls' School, on clay
soil, are Cratoneuron filicinum (Hedw.) Roth. and luxuriant
Brachythecium rutabulum, looking very different from the same species
in central Reading.

LIVERWORTS

Two thallose liverworts occur in the town. Lunularia cruciata
(L.) Dum. is frequent, and sometimes abundant on shaded soil or paths.
The small crescent-shaped gemma-cups are always present. Marchantia
polymorpha L. is a larger, darker plant, with round gemma cups. It
needs more moisture, and I have only seen it twice away from water,

‘once on a wet wall by Reading bus station.

ISOLATED RECORDS

Isolated occurrences of several mosses reflect exceptional soil
conditions, e.g. Polytrichum formosum Hedw. and Pohlia nutans (Hedw.)
Lindb., now apparently extinct, on cindery ground in Reading Station
car park, Mnium hornum Hedw., Dicranella heteromalla (Hedw.) Schp.,
Dicranella cenviculate (Hedw.) Schp., on damp shaded peat in my own
garden (the latter at least not apparently introduced), and Polytrichum
piliferum Hedw., on cindery ground by Palmer Park sports stadium. The
concentration of these isolated records in places which I happen to
look at closely or visit regularly suggests that other species may
remain to be found in even the least promising areas.

COMPARISON WITH OTHER TOWNS

Less than twenty of the species so far mentioned are at all
common in Reading. Except for Barbula unguiculata and Barbula fallax
all these are mentioned by Dr. Gilbert in his paper on Newcastle
bryophytes. Of the fifteen species seen here in only one site, only
five were noted in Newcastle. The first species mentioned here all
occur in Newcastle in the same habitats, and in the same associations
(or "provisional noda" as they are described in Dr. Gilbert's paper).
The only appreciable differences between the two towns, so far as the
common species are concerned are as follows:-

Bryum capillare has relatively fewer stations in Reading in
comparison with Grimmia pulvinata and Orthotrichum diaphanum, which
are most abundant here on limestone walls. Dicranella heteromalla
does not appear to occur naturally in Inner Reading. I have not seen
Pohlia annotina (Hedw.) Loeske on wall bases in Reading, and M
Marchantia polymorpha is rare. Both need continuously wet soil to
flourish in cultivation.

These minor differences bear out my superficial impression that
the moss flora of walls and roofs in cities as far apart as Belfast,
Sheffield and London are very similar. The only striking departure
from the Reading pattern I have seen is in Matlock, Derbyshire, where
Grimmia apocarpa Hedw. is the most abundant moss om sandstone walls.
The most surprising town moss I have seen is Rhacomitrium heterostichum
(Hedw.) Brid. on shaded sandstone walls in the suburbs of Belfast.

It grows in small amounts in a similar habitat, on a tomb in the
churchyard of St. Peter's, Caversham, but is hardly likely to become

common in the dry climate and appreciable pollution of most British
cities.

DY

MOSSES .OF THE THAMES-SIDE

The strange tufa cushion in the Forbury Gardens fountain contains
a number of mosses which are more conveniently examined by the Thames.
These are Marchantia polymorpha, Barbula tophacea (Brid.) Mitt.,
Bryum pse udotriquetrum var. bimum (Brid.) Richards & Wallace, and
and Brachythecium rivulare (Bruch.) B. & S. Bryum pseudotriquetrum
var. bimum is rare elsewhere in Reading (one other record), and
Brachythecium rivulare is normally confined to wet turf.

Other bryophytes seen in or by the Thames in Reading include:
underwater, Fontinalis antipyretica Hedw. and Cinclidotus fontinaloides
(Hedw.) Pe Beauv.; on muddy cement near or above water, Orthotrichum
diaphanum, Cinclidotus mucronatus (Brid.) Moenk & Loeske (abundant and
increasing below the Kennet confluence), Bryum argenteum, Bryum
bi¢golor, Leptodyctium riparium (Hedw.) Warnst., Marchantia polymorpha
and Conocephalum conicum conicum (L.) Dum; on clay banks, Dicranella varia
(Hedw.) Schp., Funaria naria hygrometrica, Physcomitrium riforme, Pohlia
delicatula (Hedw.) Grout and Bryum spp., including Bryum bicolor; on
damp ground among stones, at the edges of towpaths, etc., Barbula
cylindrica (Tayl.) Schp. and Cratoneuron filicinum (Hedw.) Roth.; on
dry, shaded, vertical silted cement at Mill Green, Tortula latifolia
(Bruch) Hartm.

This list is not exhaustive, and there seems no reason why any
Thanes-side bryophyte should not be found in Reading, given a suit-
able habitat.

MOSSES, AIR POLLUTION AND HUMAN HEALTH

The similarity between the very restricted moss flora in various
towns has long suggested that some limiting factor is at work. The
bulk of the evidence suggests that pollution by sulphur dioxide and
acidification of rainwater are the main factors involved. Traffic
fumes in Reading seem unimportant; King's Road and London Road are as
rich in mosses as the quiet side streets around Cemetery Junction.
Epiphytic mosses seem most sensitive to sulphur dioxide; in Tilehurst,
Caversham Warren and Emmer Green a few occur on sheltered tree trunks
near the ground. In Alexandra Road Hypnum cupressiforme grows on the
boles of a few lime trees, and the cushions of Dicranoweisia cirrata
(Hedw.) Lindb. become more abundant as one climbs the hill towards
Upper Redlands Road. At the top of Kendrick Road two elms: carry col-
onies of Dicranoweisia cirrata on their exposed trunks to a height of
5 metres. This is a surprising and,;isolated occurrence, though the
whole area of wooded suburbs sSloping up from London Road to 7
Christchurch Green is richer than those surrounding it on all sides.
It contains one other moss worth mention, Tortula intermedia (Brid.)
Berk., in small amounts among other mosses on at least three limestone
walls or pillars.

Reading has an average relative humidity which is among the low-
est in the country. (2) The theory that the dry air of towns accounts
for the poverty of their moss flora seems unsound after a comparison
of the mosses of Reading and Newcastie. Reading, with drier and
probably cleaner air, has, if anything, a slightly richer moss flora
on exposed wall-tops. The popular idea that there is a connection
between high humidity in the Thames Valley, and a high incidence of
some illnesses, especially bronchitis and sinus trouble, seems equally
unsound. Despite the growing awareness of connections between air
pollution and human health, many gauges are placed in irrelevant.

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sites, and it is to the common mosses of towns that one may turn for
supplementary evidence. They have taken up the bulk of this account,
and their value as indicators should commend their study to more than
a small number of specialists. They do not throw much light on any
possible link between health, humidity and air pollution in Reading,
but suggest two things: that there are substantial differences
between the lowest areas of the town, and others nearby and only
slightly more elevated; and that a tree cover can modify local humid-
ity, sulphur-dioxide levels, or both, by a large amount.

Though responsible for the final version of this account, and
for any errors or imperfections it may contain, I am indebted to Dr.
E. V. Watson, for his detailed revision of the manuscript, for many
suggestions and comments which have been incorporated, and for his
encouragement and assistance in the study of bryophytes over a period
of several years.

References

(1) Gilbert, O. L. (1971). Urban bryophyte communities in North-

East England. Transactions of the British Bryological Society,
Ge obs 4506.

(2) Bowen, H. (1968). Flora of Berkshire, especially pp. 23-25 and
pp. 320-322.

(3) Watson, E. V. (1959). British Mosses: and Liverworts, Cambridge,
University Press.

(4) British Bryological Society. Census Catalogue of British
Mosses, 3rd. Edn.

Pigmented Progeny Produced by Two Albino Frogs (Rana meungrenia- L.)
and Two Successful Back Crosses

by Arthur Price

One would reasonably expect that, genetically, a frog with pink
eyes and pink skin should be cc, i.e. double recessive for albinism.
Two consecutive matings in 1971 and 1972 have proved that this is not
always so. The mating of a 1967 cc female frog and Mickie, a male
with pink eyes and pink skin was repeated in 1971 and 1972. In the
spring of 1971 this mating produced 140 ml of white spawn, 95% of
which was fertile. All the resulting tadpoles pigmented as they
developed, a result which I found inexplicable. Interference by
another male was suspected but hardly thought possible.

In the spring of 1972 the mating was repeated under conditions
which made interference by another male impossible. Mickie was the

= p2<

only mature male in the Froghouse. On 17th March 1972, 170 ml white
spawn, 95% of which was fertile, was laid. Again all the tadpoles
pigmented as they developed. The female had already proved herself
to be a double recessive on two occasions when she was mated with

the 1967 cc male (Price, 1970, 1971). The unexpected results can
therefore be directly attributed to Mickie who according to the
1971/72 results might be GCww; his offspring (CcWw) would become col-
oured through complimentation. During discussions on this unexpected
result more than one person has suggested that more than one gene
might be responsible for the albinism.

Mickie's parentage is unknown as he was caught, by Paul Huggins,
in-Caversham Park in 1967. Price reported in Reading Naturalist
No. 24 (1972) that pigmented tadpoles had lost their melanin and
become frogs with pink eyes and pink skin. Even assuming that this
happened it Mickie's case the genotype should not have changed.
Mickie has now died and has been pickled in 4% formalin.

Mickie's genetic make-up explains earlier unexpected results
obtained when the female frog Marfer, his daughter, was mated with
the 1967 cc male in the spring of 1971 (Price, 1972). The male had
already proved himself to be cc but Marfer's only claim to be a

Single recessive for albinism (Cc). rested upon Mickie proving to be cc.

This has now been disproved. Therefore Marfer must have been a
double dominant (CC). This would account for the pigmentation of the
tadpoles.

In the spring of 1972, two successful back crosses were made
using two of the 1968 ce females which had been bred from white spawn
collected in the Highmoor Road pond in 1968. The males, which were
expected to be Cc, resulted from the mating in 1970 of another of the
1968 cc females with 1968/ 10, a pigmented male, which although it
had developed from white spawn, must have been CC.

The two suecessful matings were:-

Q@ Spawn. 1968 cc female No 1 X 1970 Cc male No 1

This resulted in white spawn, 90% fertile, which gave 285
tadpoles that pigmented as they developed and 278 pink
tadpoles.

R Spawn. 1968 cc female No 2 X 1970 Cc No 2.

This resulted in 100 ml white spawn, 90% of which was
fertile, which gave 226 tadpoles that pigmented as they
developed and 226 pink tadpoles.

These results confirm the forecast of Gs male X cc female =
Ce + Cc + cc + cc:in both matings and proves that the 1970 pigmented
stock must be Cc and that the 1968 female pink frogs must be cc.

Some of the tadpoles, both pink and pigmented, which resulted
from these back crosses, were given to Mr. W. A. Smallcombe and to
Pat Smallcombe who is setting up a vivarium under close control in
her garden in Wychwood Crescent, Earley. Dr. I. W. Whimster of
St. Thomas! Hospital, S.E.1 collected thirty pigmented and thirty
pink tadpoles from Q Spawn on 31 March 1972 and a similar number from
R Spawn on 29 April. More will undoubtedly be heard later of these
tadpoles and the resulting frogs.

i 125 =

Both the pigmented and the albino frogs are vigorous and healthy;
very few are distorted. All my pigmented frogs of both these matings
have been placed in the Froghouse to serve as future breeding stock.
Twenty-two of the albinos of Q and R spawn are doing well in a tank on
my study desk. Eleven of them exceed 30 mm in length, the largest
being 34 mm long in early October. They will be allowed to overwinter
on my desk.

The Matriarch, when almost certainly thirteen years old in the
spring of 1972, was mated with a pigmented male bearing the character-
istic black patches, from the Highmoor Road pond. This male in
deference to the Matriarch's age was called The Gigolo. The object
of persisting with the Matriarch is to establish the age at which a
female frog ceases to lay fertile spawn and to establish the age of
the Matriarch when she dies. We must admit that the conditions are
very favourable. On 17 March 1972, 450 ml white spawn containing two
black eggs was laid and 95% of this was fertile. The resulting frogs
were released in suitable habitats as they metamorphosed.

The pink frogs bred froms1968 cc female and the 1967 cc male in
1970 have not matured. Only one is still alive and it is not expected
to survive the winter. Four of the pink frogs bred from a 1968 cc
female and the 1967 ce male in 1971 are doing well. Two females, one
58 mm long and 20 g in weight and another 50 mm long and 13.3 g in
weight could breed in 1973. One male has been identified but he is
slow growing. The 1967 cc male died on 2 March 1972 whilst Mickie
died on 25 August. We are therefore left with only the 1970 single
recessive males for breeding in 1973.

Thanks are due to a great number of people, including Mrs. A. C. E.
Holt of Reading University (Zool. Dept.) and Mr. T. Riordan of
1A Mansfield Road whose cabbages and compost have supplied many meals
for hungry frogs.

Summary .

1. Mickie, a male with pink skin and pink eyes when crossed with a
proven full albino frog produced offspring 100% of which
pigmented.

2. The Matriarch now thirteen years. old produced fertile spawn.

3. Only one clump of white spawn was laid in the Highmoor Road pond
an 1972.

4. Only simgle recessive males are available for breeding in 1973.

Bibliography

Price, A. Reading Naturalist Nos. 19 (1967), 20 (1968),
el (1969), 22 (1970), 25 (1971) and. 24 (1972).

Whimster, I. W. 1971. The Group Behaviour of Pigment Cells. A
Comparative Study. Transactions of the St. John's
Hospital Dermatological Society, Vol. 57.

ae

A Chub (Squalius cephalus L.) Eats Frogs (Rana temporaria L.)

by Pat Smallcombe

We had had the fish for several years. It had come with a
collection of minnows (Phoxinus phoxinus L.) which the children had
caught in the River Kennet and placed in an aquarium in our house.
It differed from the minnows both in shape and colour and was the
only fish to survive a very hot summer when the temperature rose too
high for the minnows.

When, in 196%, we had dug and cemented a pond twelve feet long
and four feet broad, our fish which was now three inches long, was
placed in it. It lived there very successfully without receiving any
food from us.

Although we had not kept accurate records we think that it must
have been in 1965 that the local frogs began laying their spawn in
our pond. The fish was getting bigger and was accompanied around the
pond by a-goldfish which we had placed there. We congratulated our-
selves on having achieved a state of equilibrium in the pond. During
the spring of 1965 as many as sixteen pairs of frogs were in amplexus
and a few unattached males were croaking and splashing about. The
fish were healthy and both Palmate Newts (Triturus helveticus L.),
and Smooth Newts (Triturus vulgaris L.) were coming to breed in the
pond. None of these animals required feeding by us and the pond
remained sweet and clean.

Conditions in the pond remained stable for five years during
which time we had added a number of tadpoles given to us by Mr. A.
Price. These tadpoles although normal in appearance had hatched from
white frog spawn and carried a recessive gene for albinism.

In 1971 we were paying particular attention to the pond during
the frog breeding season because our first clump of albino frog spawn
had been laid there. All the resulting tadpoles pigmented. We were,
however, distressed to find a frog with a large piece missing from
one side of its face. One of my neighbours had seen a Heron (Ardea
cinerea L.) in our garden the previous year and we thought that this
bird might have been responsible. The next day there was another dead
frog on the bottom of our pond with one of its legs missing. This
happened again the next week and we were mystified.

I think that the mystery would have remained unsolved had I not
noticed a couple of mornings later that our fish, which had now been
identified as a Chub and was about a foot long, was excreting a large
amount of f#og skin and bone. The Chub was undoubtedly the culprit.
For most of the time the fish and frogs had lived in harmony. The
frogs swam by the fish without showing any signs of fear bur occasion-
ally the fish would snap, and with its large white mouth remove and
devour a limb from one of the frogs.

The same thing started to happen in 1972 in spite of our efforts
to separate the frogs and fish with wire netting. The fish was now
too big for the pond so we decided to catch it - this required a great
effort as its girth was so great that it needed both hands to en-=-
circle it. We eventually transported it, in a large container, to a
local gravel pit where there were pienty of birds and no fishermen
and released it. The fish swam without hesitation straight away from

= £5 =

the bank, and, as far as we could observe, followed the contours of
the bottom of the pit not inhibited by its previous environment.

Report on Aston Upthorpe Reserve - 1971-72

by M..R.~.W. Sell

Ey i

A mild spell in February enabled the usual small band of volunteers
to cut the grass on the Reserve, this year about 2/3rds of the total
area being cut by 'Flymo', and a patch at the bottom end carefully
cleared by burning. In all, practically ths whole of the Reserve has
now been cleared of the matted grass at least once, and in some areas
two or three times, in the past three years. It was interesting to
note the varied results in different areas during the past season -
the parts which had already been cut twice or more tended to have a
thicker crop of Bromus erectus than those which had been cut for the
first time in the spring. The main point of interest, however, was
the area that had been burnt, where a magnificent show of Polygala
calcarea (Chalk Milkwort) was to be seen, and B. erectus was very
considerably diminished. Another feature of this particular area was
a large colony of Primula veris (Cowslip). This has been much more
in evidence since the clearing of the grass, some of which was an
accumulation of eight or nine years' growth. 7

Anemone pulsatilla (Pasque flower) again had a very poor year, as
far as flowering plants were concerned - there were only nine flowers
in the small enclosure, and two outside, but once again, plenty of
young plants were in evidence in the vicinity. Flowering this year
was towards the end of April. The Short-eared Owls also stayed in the
valley until well into April, a maximum of five being seen this winter
in Juniper Valley.

By mid-May, one of the best displays yet of Polygala calcarea was
to be seen on the Reserve, and there are encouraging signs of the
rejuvenation of Hippocrepis comosa (Horseshoe Vetch), although not
nearly in the quantity needed to attract the Adonis Blue back to the
valley.

In early June, Iberis amara (Candytuft) was starting to flower and
Senecio integrifolius (Field Fleawort) once again made a very good

‘display. There were at this time eleven flowering spikes of Orchis

ustulata (Burnt-tip Orchid) on the Reserve, but as many as eighteen
outside, this species having a better year than in 1970. By this time,
also, a marked increase was noticed in the appearanee of H. comosa,
probably attributable to mowing, as in previous years it has not teen
able to compete with B. erectus. Also noted was a small colony of
Cerastium arvense (Field Mouse-ear), not actually on the Reserve but

by the approach gate.

At the end of June, twelve flowering spikes of Coeloglossum viride
(Frog Orchid) formed a little group at a new point in the Reserve - a

« 26. =

most encouraging sign - and there were three plants of Ophrys apifera
(Bee Orchid) in flower, an increase on previous years.

Most other plants had a fairly good season, but mention must be
made in particular of the large number of plants of Gentianella
amarella (Felwort) flowering in September, as well as a large number
of Campanula glomerata (Clustered Bellflower).

Birds noted on the Reserve in 1971, apart from the Short-eared
Owls, have included Spotted Flycatchers, Turtle Doves, Tree Pipits and
the resident Kestrel. A migrating Curlew was also seen flying over in
late March.

Summing up, it would appear that the regular grass-cutting has
had beneficial effects on most plant life. How frequently it needs to
be done is a question not so readily answered, however. The picture
has been altered this year, too, by young cattle grazing in Juniper
Valley in July, August and September, for about two weeks at a time.
They appeas to have had no harmful effect on the flora, however,
although they were on the Reserve itself during this time. The last
dates were in Ostober, and there has been no more grazing since then.
It was hoped that the new lessee of the grazing rights would be putting
sheep in the valley, but:these Have not materialised, and it is now
understood that this is highly unlikely. More intensive grazing with
cattle is probable in 1972, and these are likely to be older and there-
fore heavier animals. It is probable that they will require the whole
of the valley, including the Reserve, for grazing, but arrangements
will be made with the lessee to keep them off the Reserve as long as
possible during the flowering season.

During 1971, only three days were spent grass-cutting and 'tidy-
ing up’, and in future years it is probable that one or two days in
early March will suffice. The effects of different treatments for
different parts of the Reserve will continue to be kept under close
observation. -

1972

The year started quite eventfully, with eleven Short-Eared Owls |
being spotted on a N.H.S. walk on the Downs in early February, more
than the writer has seen before in this area.

The Berks., Bucks. & Oxon Trust having acquired its own 'Flymo',
a handful of stalwarts braved the bitter cold weather early in March,
starting the annual mowing in a blizzard! Only a small portion was
cut on this particular day, but on the following day, with the loan of
a second 'Flymo', the whole Reserve was cut completely, apart from the
very rough bit at the bottom corner, which was burned early in 1971,
and which was too rough even fora 'Flymo' to tackle. The other area
left was a small strip below the rabbit holes in the middle of the
Reserve. With the effective control which is now exercised over Bromus
erectus, there was only a minimal amount of grass to be raked off,
including that which had to be cut by hand round the small enclosure
and individual small Juniper trees (Juniperus communis).

The state of some of the Junipers in fact gives rise to concern,
as some of the young trees are not doing particularly well. Whether
this can be put down to the succession of mild winters, followed by
' cold spring and early summer weather, is a matter for speculation, but

SHes

it is evident that they seem to do much better on the east (and there-

fore colder) slope of the valley than on the Reserve side. Some of the
smallest trees had in fact died since last year, and it is not known to
what this can be attributed.

After a very mild spell at the end of March and beginning of
April, four Pasque Flowers were in bloom on April 4th, and a further
sixteen buds inside and six outside the small enclosure were to be
eeen, including five on a large plant by the top outside fence, which
plant flowered last in 1970. Also seen were three Slow-worms, sunning
themselves on the Reserve, and the resident Kestrel was also in
evidence. By the end of April, when a new sign was put up outside the
Reserve, there were twenty-one blooms to be seen on various plants,
mostly inside the small enclosure, but some of these had been subject
to rodent attack, although the area is supposedly proofed to such
intrusions. Vole cr mouse runs were discovered inside the small
enclosure when mowing earlier in the year, and these appeared to be
Beitt in use.

There were quite a number of young non-flowering plants of Anemone
pulsatilla to be seen outside the small enclosure, and despite the
reversion to cold weather during April, a number of plants of Polygala
calcarea were in bloom already. The display of this plant this year
was equally as good, if not better than last year, and included a
number of white and pink specimens.

By early June, cold winds notwithstanding, an amazing number of
plants of Orchis Ustulata could be seen, a total of eighty flowering
spikes being complemented by another one hundred and six outside the
Reserve above the main enclosure, although one isolated plant was
flowering outside the bottom fence on the floor of the valley. Senecio
integrifolius appeared in about the usual numbers, and at this time
A. pulsatilla was in seed in the small enclosure, twenty seed-heads in
total.

In mid-July, one of the finest displays yet seen of Filipendula
vulgaris was observed, and this year Coeloglossum viride produced no
less than fifty-three flowering spikes, and there could well have been
more. This is more than four times the number in 1971, and they
appeared. on four different sites within the Reserve, a most encouraging
Sign. There were also two plants of Ophrys apifera in bloom, and where
rabbits had excavated their burrows, in many paces, there were patches
of Iberis amara in flower. There was certainly more evidence of
rabbit activity this year, and it appears that in certain areas Bromus
erectus is actually being controlled by them, as it once was before the
onset of myxomatosis. The grass was much shorter than last year, and
it is not thought that this was entirely due to the cold weather from
April until the beginning of July. Patches of Campanula glomerata
were beginning to come out by this time, but not as good a show as the
previous year.

Quail have been heard and seen in Juniper Valley this summer, and
Stone Curlews have been calling in the vicinity. At least one Kestrel
has been seen fairly regularly, but not as often as in previous years,
nor were there any signs of a family party, as in 1970.

The farm manager's post has yet another occupant, and this year no
grazing has been done in Juniper Valley at all, although the adjacent
valley had a large herd of young cattle for part of the summer, at
least. It will be interesting to make a comparison with the effects of
grazing on the flora in 1971, and the overall growth of B. erectus.

i RD ie

The Recorder's Report for Entomology
1971 - 72

by. Be Re, Baker

By comparison with previous years we have received, or personally
made, few observations for the year under review, and if one scans the
monthly weather records kindly supplied by the Department of Geography,
Reading University, the reason for insect scarcity becomes self-
apparent. In praise of Spring and Summer 1972 we quote:-

"March, sunniest and warmest since 1967, and wettest since 1964.
April, warmest since 1967. May, coolest since 1968 and dullest since
1969. June. This was the coldest June since reliable records started
at the University in 1921 and the first time in that period that a day
maximum of 21.1°C (70°F) has not been reached. July, dullest since
1968. August, coldest since 1968. September, the coldest since 1952."

It is small wonder therefore that for some Orders no observations
have been made, others receive scarce mention, and only for the
Lepidoptera has it been possible to assemble much information.

Order Odonata (Dragon-flies)
Libellula_ depressa L. Broad-Bodied Libellula

A female of this species was brought to the Museum by Mr. P,
Maynard on 9th June, having been found in the vicinity of Hartland
Road, and a male was taken at Fence Wood on the late date of 16th July.

Order Neuroptera (Lace-wings)
Osmylus fulvicephalus (Scop.) (Giant Lace-wing)

This elegant lace-wing has frequently received mention in our
recoras in previous years, but all observations have related to Pamber
Forest, Hampshire, where the insect is to be found resting either under
small bridges or amonst streamside vegetation. It is therefore note-
worthy that in 1972 Berkshire has produced a record for fulvicephalus,
this being from thick hazel cover bordering a stream in woodland at
Padwerth on 2nd June. |

Order Hemiptera (Plant-bugs, Leaf-hoppers, Aphids, etc.
Ledra aurita (L.)

A nymph of this strange-looking insect was noted at Padworth on
end June. It provided a remarkable example of protective resemblance,
being clamped flat on to 2 slender stem of hazel, and was proved to be
non=-plant tissue only by gently touching the creature with a grass
stem and inducing movement.

Heterogaster urticae (F.) Nettle Ground Bug

Mr. Arthur Price has submitted a detailed note on this species in
1972, his last comments being noted in Reading Naturalist No. 19
(1965-66), but both sets of observations concern journeys made around
Reading when the primary quest has been to find food for Mr. Price's
special strain of Amphibia. Overwintered adults of H. urticae may he
found in dense swarms in mid-summer - they congregate upon the upper
parts of nettle patches where pairing takes place. A second brood of

= 2§ =

adults appears in September - these examples will overwinter.

Mr. Price observed the following numbers:

June. 2; 26; 28. July: 1; 2; 4; 10; 12; 16. August. 9; 22; 23; 27; |
eptember. 2; 4; 6; 8; 12: 17; 18; 20; 25. October. 14th 24; 22; 6.

Mr. Price refers particularly to an observation of the 9th August
- ''tens of thousands of these bugs were found in the pit (a sandpit
along Elgar Road) on the tops of nettle, on the ground under old sack-
ing, on the ground itself, and on old linoleum. The insects appeared
to consist of late-instar individuals and mature adults".

Mr. Price promises to keep records next season of the stage of
development of his captures and these should provide interesting data
illustrating the period when adult H. urticae are to be found.

Order Hymenoptera (Saw-flies, Bees, Ants, Wasps, etc.)

The following list of Saw-flies taken in 1972 has been supplied by
our President: -
Athalia bicolor Lepeletier. female Goring Heath 18.5.72. (HHC)
Dolerus, Sanguinicollis (Klug.) male Goring Heath 18.5.72 (HHC)

besdolista pubescens tyaqaaehy. female Goring Heath 11.5.72 (HHC)
new to Oxon.

Anoplonyx destructor Benson female Goring Heath 11.5.72 (HHC )
Eriocampa ovata (L.) female Wokefield Common 20.6.72 (HHC)
Aneugmenus temporalis Thomson female Wokefield Common 12.7.72 (HHC)
Tenthredo mandibularis F. male Woolhampton 20.7.72 (EB)
Stigmus solskyi Morawitz. female Reading 14.7.72 (EB)

Urocerta gigas (L,) Greater Horntail

A specimen was brought into the Museum on 18th August having been
discovered in the vicinity of Messrs Huntley & Palmers Biscuit Factory.
As this impressive insect is normally an inhabitant of conifer plant-
ations where the larvae mine within the trunks of the trees, we presume
the H. & P. specimen to have emerged into an unfavourable habitat from
Some piece of softwood which had become part of some rough-timber
Support-structure.

Order Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths)

Early Appearance of Hibernators

The brilliant sunny weather of March induced a welcome show of our !
overwintered butterflies. |

14th March Gonepteryx rhamni (L.) Brimstone and Aglais urticae (L.)
Small Tortoiseshell observed flying over town gardens.

15th March Brimstones seen at Bearwood (B.T.P.); also Polygonia
c-album (L.) Comma and Nps Meola io (L.) Peacock Butterfly.

=~ BOs

23 March. Polgonia c-album (L.) Comma Butterfly

Along one stretch of woodland ride at Padworth eight of
these butterflies were counted within the space of half an
hour. Flight was rapid but brief, the insects preferring
to settle upon the earpet of dead leaves and bask in the
sun.

Notes on Immigrants

Vanessa cardui (L.) Painted Lady

Scanty records only; one on 17th August and one on 23rd September,
both being observed in a Cavershar garden.

Vanessa atalanta (L.) Red Admiral

Not observed until 10th September (Southcote). One on 22nd
September, Caversham garden and a final example on 30th September above
The Warren, Caversham.

Notes on Residents
Eushloe cardamines (L.) Orange Tip

Appearing well on time by lst May (Caversham) but emergences
delayed by subsequent cold weather with the result that butterflies
could still be seen in Pamber Forest as late as 16th June. Eggs dis-
covered on Cruciferae at Sonning Hye on 19th May (B.T.P.); also observed
on a flowering hedgebank at Caversham, 28th May.

Pieris rapae (L.) Small White

This species, one of the earliest to hatch in the year, is the
subject of two very contrasting records. On the evening of 2nd April
a newly hatched butterfly was noted clinging to the base of a wall
near the Town Centre, the weather being cold with heavy rain falling.
By contrast Mr. Leeke reports a completely out-of-season hatching of
this butterfly on llth December, but the caterpillar must have wandered
into Mr. Leeke's house, pupated in a warm corner, finally produsing the
butterfly which he discovered sitting on a hat! ,

Maniola jurtina (L.) Meadow Brown
Generally considered a common species but noted in extraordinary

abundance in Moor Copse Nature Reserve on 22nd July, forty specimens
being counted on a clump of willow herb.

Melanargia galathea (L.) Marbled White

Fairly common on Watlington Hill, 24th July (B.T.P.)
Apatura_ iris (L.) Purple Emperor

A larva found on 5th May and a male butterfly seen over oaks on
20th August, both records from Pamber Forest. The capture of a female
iris on llth August.is reported by Mr. R. L. Leeke, the locality being
a field at Beenham. Records of this fine butterfly from areas other
than Pamber Forest are particularly valuable.

~ 3X -

Limenitis camilla (L.) White Admiral

This species again had a very good season at Pamber Forest and at
Padworth; at both localities it was still on the wing at the late date
of 20th August. A specimen is also reported from Sulham Wood where it
was seen flying around conifers on 10th August by Z. Karpowicz.

Argynnis paphia (L.) Silver-washed Fritillary

Several reported from Pamber Forest on 19th July (B.T.P.), the
dark variety valesina was observed on more than one occasion in the
same locality (S.R.A.). A. paphia also had a splendid season at
Padworth though the dark variety was not seen there during several
visits to the locality.

Argynnis aglaia (L.) Dark Green Fritillary
Watlington Hill, 24th July. (B.T.P.)
Thecla betulae (L.) Brown Hairstreak

Mr. S. R. Anthony has submitted some intriguing notes on this
species which he observed near his home at Baughurst - he writes "I
was very surprised to find the Brown Hairstreak quite plentiful near
my home in late September". He also mentions seeing the species in
Pamber Forest and in Wasing Wood. I have looked over his original
locality, a length of hedgerow bordering a road and noted that sloe
(the food plant of the Brown Hairstreak) is present, though not abun-
dant as in other betulae localities that I have seen. Without doubt
this species has been overlooked, especially so in one area which we
thought we knew well, and the records serve to remind one that late
September affords possibilities of seeing species equal in interest to
those we annually watch for in June and July.

Strymonidia_ w-album (Knoch) White-letter Hairstreak

A single specimen observed at close quarters in Moor Copse Nature
Reserve on 22nd July. This is a first record for the Reserve.

Thecla quercus (L.) Purple Hairstreak

Seen on several visits to Pamber Forest in July and August where
I last observed it on 20th August. Mr. Anthony reports that quercus
was still to be seen in September. The butterflies are usually seen
flying in little groups making quick, circling inspections of the oak
crowns, occasionally an individual butterfly (usually a female) is seen
at ground level. Mr. Parsons reports a specimen settling on his
bicycle basket when he visited Pamber Forest on 3lst July.

Celastrina argiolus (L.) Holly Blue

Scarce by comparison with recent years: one seen at Caversham on
3rd May and one at Thatcham on 9th May. No records of the second brood.

Moths

Hyloicus pinastri (L.) Pine Hawk-moth

Records of this fine hawk~moth are always welcome, especially

— 2

when they relate to observations within the Borough. Hawk-moths, after
their night flight, sometimes rest in fairly exposed positions where
they may be seen during daylight hours and on 13th August Anne Baker
picked up a fine male Pine Hawk which was at rest on the pavement edge
at the top of St. Peter's Hill, Caversham. The specimen was released
after dark on the same date.

Sphinx ligustri (L.) Privet Nawk-moth
Eggs found at Gatehampton on 10th July (B.T.P.)
Laothoe populi (L.) Poplar Hawk-moth

Eegs found at Sonning Common on 21st June, and at Whiteknights
Park on 24th June. (B.T.P.)

Smerinthus ocellatus (L.) Eyed Hawk-moth

Eggs found at Beech Lane, Earley, 4th July, and at Bramley Corner,
on LOth July. (B.TeP;)

Odontosia carmelita (Esp.) Scarce Prominent
4th May at Goring Heath, two examples taken at mercury-vapour

light, one of them being a female; (for many species it is generally
true that females are far less attracted to light than males).

Gastropacha quercifolia (L.) Lappet moth

25 August - 4th September at Gypsy Lane, Earley, six small larvae
and eggs, or parts of eggs, totalling about forty discovered on small
blackthorn bushes with a single egg on willowherb. Most of the eggs
appeared eaten by some predator. (B.T.P.)

Procus versicolor (Borkh.) Rufous Minor
ss

2lst July at Goring Heath. A single example at light.* This
appears to be a first local record for this species which can easily be
confused with other Minors. Identity checked by genitalia examination.
Schrankia taenialis (Hubn.) White-line Snout

21st July at Goring Heath. A single example at light.

Schrankia costaestrigalis Steph. Pinion-streaked Snout
2lst July at Goring Heath. A single example at light.
Order Diptera (True Flies)

The detailed list relating to this Order has been submitted to the
Recorder by our President, Mr. H. H. Carter and embodies records made
on behalf of Dr. E. Burtt and Mr. Carter himself. All the species
listed have not previously been included in the Reading Museum Diptera

Collection.

Tipulidae.
Nephrotoma cornicina (L.) male, 2 College Rd. Reading 6.7.71 (EB)

Tipula pseudovariipennis Czizek. males and a female, Goring Heath

2s =

T, montium Egger.

Diogma glabrata (Meigen)

Limonia macrostigma Schummel.

15-22.5. various years from 1965
onwards (EB). (These had been wrongly
determined at the British Museum until
revealed by a check on the. male
genitalia this year.)

males and a female at Aldermaston
27467672 (HHO)*

males, Wokefield Common 12.7.72 and
hO. 7972 (EB)

males and a female, Wokefield Common,
T506¥72 (HC).

Erioptera (Ilisia) maculata (Meigen) male, Goring Heath 22.72.71 (EB)

BE. (T.) occoecata (Edwards, F. W. )

Gonomyia lateralis (Macquart).

C hironomidae

female, Goring Heath 30.5.72 (HHC)
female, Woolhampton 20.7.72 (HHC)

Cricotopus triannulatus (Macquart). male, 2 College Rd. Reading

6. sylvestris (F.)
Chironomus fuscipennis Meigen.

Psychodidae.
Pericoma pilularia Tonnoir.

Stratiomyidae.

Microchrysa_cyaneiventris (Zett.).

Syrphidae.

Syrphus arcticus Zett.
Chrysogaster hirtella Loew, H.
C. chalybeata Meigen.

C. virescens Loew, H.

Heringia heringii (Zett.).
Myolepta_luteola (Gmelin).

Tachinidae.

Hebia flavipes Robineau-Desvoidy. female, Goring Heath 9.5.72 (HHC) !

Zenillia fimbriata (Meigen).

Arrhinomyia_innoxia (Meigen).

Calliphoridae.
Brachycoma devia (Fallen).

Ptychoneura rufitarsis (Meigem).

17.4.72 (HHC)
female, Reading 14.5.72 (EB)
male, Wokefield Common 13.6.72 (HHC)

abundant, Goring Heath 23.3.72 (HHC)

females, Reading 25.7.72 and
Aldermaston 27.7.72 (EB)

(EB)
8.6.72 (HHC)

female, Wokefield Common 19.8.69 (EB)
- re-determined

female, Wokefield Common 22.6.71 (EB)
females, Goring Heath 15.5.71 (EB)

male, Wokefield Common izevete
(J. W. Spencer)

male, Nuney Green 6.5.72

female, Woxefield Common

male, 2 College Rd. Reading 8.5.72 (EB)

male, Wokefield Common 29.6.72 (HHC)
- an uncommon species.

female, Wokefield Common 6.7.72,
male, Aldermaston 27.7.72 (HHC)

male, 2 College Rd. Reading 16.6.72
(EB)

sgh

Sarcophaga barbata Thomson. pair in cop., Reading Town Hall 76S 72
Sa ' (HHC) - new to Berks.

‘Pollenia excarinata Wainwright. male, Woolhampton 20.7.72 (HHC)

Muscidae.

Drymeia_ hamata (Fallen). female, 2 College Rd., Reading 17.7.72
(EB)

Mydaea_ancilla (Meigen). males, Goring Heath 9.5.72 and 27.5.72

- (EB) - new to Oxon.

M. nebulosa (Stein). , male, Goring Heath 11.5.72 (EB)

Fannia atra (Stein). female, Wokefield Common 12.7.72 (EB)

F. manicata (Meigen). males, 2 College Rd., Reading 3° oe 72

(EB)

F. nitida (Stein). female, 2 College Rd., Reading
19.7.72 (EB)

F, postica (Stein). male, 2 Got ess Rd., Reading 19.6. #
(EB)

Spilogona denigrata (Meigen). males, Wokefield Common 24.6.72 (EB)

We acknowledge our indebtedness to the Director of Reading Museum
for allowing us every facility to incorporate such Museum records as we
wished, and also express our best thanks to the following contributors:

My.) Si R. Anthony Mr. Arthur Price
Miss Anne Baker Mr. B. T. Parsons
Dr. BE. Burtt Mr. R. L. Leeke
Me. H. HH. Carter Mr. R. Leeke

Mr. Z. Karpowicz

The Recorder's Report for Vertebrates 1971 - 1972

by “H’. ‘H.’ Carter

Fish.

Esox lucius L. Pike > Sag in hee at New Farm, Mapledurhan
enadt of Courtenay Gravel Pit (see Reading
Mercury 30.12.71) taken by Paul Smith.
Common in R. Lambourn (JFW).

Cottus gobio L. Bullhead Two at Loddon Bridge 7.8.72 (David

Trevenna).
Common in R. Lambourn (JEW).

Gasterosteus aculeacus L. Three-spined Stickleback. In pond at New
Farm (AB).

* 35. =

Salmo trutta L. Trout Common in R. Lambourn (JFW).
Thymallus thymallus (L.) Grayling. Common in R. Lambourn (JFW).

Nemacheilus barbatula (L.) Stone Loach. Common in R. Lambourn (JFW).

Anguilla anguilla (L.) Eel. Present in R. Lambourn but uncommon (JFW).

Lampetra planeri (Bloch) Brook Lamprey. Common in R. Lambourn (JFW).

Amphibia.

Triton cristatus Schr. Great Crested Newt. Dead Man's Pond, Whitley
Wood, March (KR).

Triturus helveticus (Raz.) Palmate Newt. Males at Arborfield Common
Pond 9.4.72 (GN).
Torpid male under corrugated iron near
overgrown ponds in Clay Copse, Tilehurst
2698.72 (22K).

T. vulgaris (L.) Smooth Newt. Several in ditch near cork factory,
Caversham, 8.7.72 (KR).

Rana _ temporaria L. Breeding in pond at New Farm, Mapledurham
(AB).
About twenty killed on roads in Tilehurst
during spring migration; maximum 7,
G,347e% hast date 2373972 (AZZK):
A large female found injured on path
beside Widmore Pond, Sonning Common,
6.10.72, was placed in the pond but
found dead shortly afterwards.

Bufo bufo (L.) Toad. Breeding in pond at New Farm, Mapledurham
(AB).
Two females at Dead Man's Pond, Whitley
Weed, 27.35.72 (KR).
A pair in amplexus, Thatcham Marsh,
2955.72 (Zak).

Reptilia.

Anguis fragilis L. Slow Worm. One caught by eat at Thatcham, 14.6.72.
One at Burghfield in 1971.

Lacerta vivipara Jacquin Lizard. Seen in Aston Upthorpe Nature Reserve,
tle ps 7a CEML)s
Two in garden of “Rising Sun", Burghfield
Common on pile of grass cuttings, 8.6.72,
one there 15.6.72.
One on a window sill in Woodley where
the species is common, 26. 9.72 (GN).

Natrix natrix (L.) Grass Snake. Present at pond near New Farm,
Mapledurham (AB).
In Sulham Woods, June 1972 (EMT).
Top of New Lane Hill, Tilehurst, where
the species occurs frequently, 13.7.72
(Mrs. Midwood).
Onc.an Reading, 25.7.7»
Two young ones 150 mm (6 inches) long
at Burghfield, 27.7.72.

Vipera _berus (L.) Adder One at Wokefield Common, 18.7.72.

a

Mammalia.
Insectivora.

Sorex araneus L. Shrew. One on hedgebank at Hall Place Farn,
Tilehurst, 14.43.72; one found dead on
Pincent's Hill, Tilehurst, 28.8.72;
shrews probably of this species oppos-
ite Hill Copse, Tilehurst, 19.4.72 and
in Barefoots Copse, Sulham, 25.4.72
(all 22K). :

One trapped at Moor Copse Nature
Reserve, 12.4.72 (RMC).

Two at Crowsley, 15.3.72. One at King
Charles's Head, Goring Heath, 17.4.72
and 18.5.72. One at Bishopsland Farm,
Dunsden, 20.4.72 and 7.6.72. One at
Chalkhouse Green, 6.5.72.

Talpa_ europaea L. . Mole Numerous records of fresh molehills and
; dead moles from the valleys of the

Thames (Henley), Kennet (Thatcham,
Theale, Sulhamstead, Burghfield) and
Pang (Tidmarsh, Englefield) (all 22K),
and from various upland areas (Boxgrove
and Mud House, Tilehurst (ZZK); Waylands
Smithy (Reading Mercury); Swyncombe
School; Watlington; Burghfield Common;)
The dates ranging from September to
March indicate much winter activity,
and the localities tend to confirm my
impressions noted in the last two num-
bers of this journal. To gravel I must
now add chalk; texture rather than pH
emerges as a key factor in mole
distribution.

Erinaceus europaeus L. Hedgehog. Seventeen records of animals killed
on roads on dates ranging from 17.4.72
to 17.9.72 (ZZK and recorder) and a
rather unexpected record of one found
dead at Stoneham School, Tilehurst, on
20,1. 72»
A family of four young, 100 mm (4 inohes)
long. with eyes open and spines hardened,
apparently deserted or bereaved ina
Reading garden, 9.8.72 (John Harvey).

' Chiroptera.

Pipistrellus pipistrellus (Schreber) Pipistrelle. Two at Riseley
Copse, Hants. June 1972. At least four
flying up and down a road between Upper
Basildon and Aldworth, July 1972. One
at Chapel Hill, Tilehurst, 29.6.7
One at Burghfield Gravel Pit, 1.9.72
and eleven there, 19.9.72 (all ZZK).

Plecotus auritus (L.) Long-eared Bat. One in the roof-space of a house
at Highmoor Cross was still active on
the late date of 26.11.7&-(Cdrs-avems
McDougall).

= Spee

Nyctalus noctula (Schreber) Noctule. A large bat showing flight char-

Vulpes vulpes (L.)

Meles meles (L.)

Mustela erminea (L,.)

acteristics of this species seen at heights of
25 to 45 metres (80 - 150 feet) over Sulham
Woods in broad daylight, finally making off to
the SW, 5.9.72 (ZZK). The colony at Englefield
Park is three minutes’ flying time away on this
course.

Fox. Six records in the Tilehurst - Sulham area,

Peel ,2568) 725, -2805.672 98.65.72, 2665672,
1.10.72 (the last with injured left hind leg)
(ZZK and EMT).

One hunting in the Moor Copse Nature Reserve
was seen to catch a small mammal at the edge of
the Pang, 29.12.71 (Z2K) (cf. RMC's trapping
results here, quoted under Insectivora and
Rodentia in this report).

Abundant at Coppid Hall, Binfield Heath,
November 1971 (Mrs. Phillimore).

One dead on A4 near Thatcham, 25.10.71; one
seen to kill a moorhen at Theale Gravel Pit,
16.1.72; one mobbed by crows and gulls at
Manor Farm, 22.1.72 (all Z2ZK).

One between Gibbet Piece and Cowpond Piece,
Wokefield Common, 23.12.71; Vaxen calling near
Rectory Road, Padworth, 25.12.71; two at
Padworth, 16.6.72; one there, dead, 26.6.72
(all MJH).

One at Starveall Farm, Aldworth "sending the
hares scampering", 10.5.72 (EMT).

One seen crossing the Peppard Road at
Chalkhouse Green, 30.8.72.

One in garden at Northcourt Avenue, Reading,
10.467e (Miss,LaE.,Cobb.n

Badger.Present at Coppid Hall, Binfield Heath,

November 1971 (Mrs. Phillimore).

Several setts in the Tadley area known to Mrs.L.
Clarke. One killed by car near Flint House,
Goring, 10.12.71. Another, a young female

760 mm (30 inches) long, killed by a car in the
same area, north of Battle House about 10.6.72
(B. G. Levy). One dead on road between
Pangbourne and Upper Basildon, end week March
1972 (Mrs. J. Topham).

A sett with many holes in Friarhampstead Wood,
Woodcote (A. Graham-Kerr) and several setts
reported in the Woodcote area.

Two adults at Stonycroft Plantation sett, April
1972 (EMT).

Signs of badgers on Watlington Hill, 26.2.72.
Setts in the Sulham area remained in use during
the year despite increasing disturbance at
Beal's Plantation, and the sett in Barefoot's
Copee was reopened (22K).

A sett reported in Bear Wood, and a badger
found dead in Bear Wood Road, 6.2.72. (Mrs.
Jewell, Wokingham NHS9.

Stoat. One dead on road at Coppid Hall, 27.11.71.

One seen killing a rabbit on Park Farn,

= xo

Mapledurham (EMT).

A fine specimen, very bold, seen by the canal

at Thatcham Marsh, 29.3.72; one dead on keeper's
gibbet at Furze Ground, Mortimer, 18.7.72 and
one seen hunting nearby, 17.8.72 (Z2K).

M. nivalis L. Weasel. One found dead near Swyncombe School, reported
14.12.71.

One found dead at Hartshill, Bucklebury,
11.4.72 (Miss Marshall).
One seen hunting a field mouse at Maidenhatch
Farm (EMT).
One on the Fairmile, 29.10.71 (ZZK and P.
Gipson).
One in Sulham Wood, 25.7.72; an adult and
juvenile crossing the road at Railway Covert,
Mortimer, 26.7.72: the juvenile stopped in the
middle of the road, whereupon the adult took
it by the neck and dragged it to the grass
verge. (ZZK).
One dead on Fen ies Road, Chalkhouse Green,
4.9.72.

Artiodactyla.
Cervus dama (L.) Fallow Deer. Slots at Nuney Green, 9.5.72.

Capreolus capreolus (L.) Roe Deer. At least three seen by the forester
of Englefield estate in Butler's Lands Copse,
Mortimer, during the summer of 1972; frayed
trees and slots seen July - August (22K).
j (This species has been recorded in recent years
from the Newbury and Crowthorne areas by other
Societies.)

Muntiacus reevesi (Ogilby) Muntjac. A fawn found injured on Henley
Road, Caversham, by an AA patrolman; reported
15.11.71. (Mrs. Gash).
Present on the Warburg Reserve at Bix; reported
22.3572\(Mre Taylor):
Droppings found at King Charles's Head, Goring
Heath, during the summer.

Lagomorpha.

Lepus capensis Pallas Hare. One on the floor of Amey's Gravel Pit,
‘Theale, 11.12.71 and again 25.4.72 (ZZK). One
must agree with the observers that this area

of mudflats, pools and heaps of waste gratel is
an unusual habitat.
At least four on the Berkshire Downs near
Aldworth, 29.6.72 (ZZK) and others seen there,
TO. 0072, Cue)
Single hares at Marley Tile Pit, 15.1.72;
Manor Farm, 4.2.72; andFurze Ground, Mortimer
10.8.72° (all 2ZK).
Numerous records from the fields beside the
Peppard Road between Sonning Common and Reading
from 8.2.72 to 27.6.72, maximum five on 5.4.72,
26.6.7e and 2746.7c, also, one 9edOs7en

Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.) Rabbit. Now occurs throughout the area in
small numbers wherever suitable conditions

- 39 -

(light, dry soils with banks or patches of dense
cover) are found. Locally numerous in heath-
land localities. Maximum three adults, fifteen
juveniles in Bramshill Forest, 31.5.72 (22K).

Rodentia.

Sciurus carolinensis Gmel. Grey Squirrel. Status unchanged, abundant
wherever there is oak or beech woodland except
in very isolated woods, common in suburban areas.
Numbers reached plague proportions in Butler's
Lands Copse, where an area of beech trees was
devastated. The forester destroyed two hundred
and sixty squirrels during the year with little
effect as numbers were kept up by immigration
from surrounding woodlands (Z2ZK), where presum-
ably the pressure of population was equally
intense.

Rattus norvegicus (Berk.) Brown Rat. Eight records from lakes, water-
ways and Manor Farm, chiefly during the winter
months, including a corpse carried by carrion
crow; also one at Chapel Hill, Tilehurst, 18.7.72
(all Z2K).

One at dustbins, Reading Town Hall, 21.12.72.
Two dead on Peppard Road, 21.35.72 and 12.9.72.

Rattus rattus L. Black Rat. Present at Marsh Mill, Henley, Dec. 1964
to March 1965 (Mr. New).

Apodemus sylvaticus (L.) Wood Mouse. Common at Moor Copse Nature
Reserve; eight taken in forty-eight trap-nights,
18.3.72 and 12-14.4.72 (RMC).

Mus musculus L. House Mouse. One dead Chapel Hill, Tilehurst, 8.4.72
(ZZK).

Micromys minutus (Pallas) Harvest Mouse. A colony has been located in
a reed-bed near Moulsford (P. J. Dillon).

Clethrionomys glareolus Schr. Bank Vole. One, rather grey in colour
but clearly seen, in Clay Copse, Tilehurst,
19.4.72 (22K).

Common at Moor Copse Nature Reserve, where nine
were caught in forty-eight trap-nights, 18.3.72
and 12-14.4.72 (RMC).

This is often the dominant mouse species in low-
lying marshy woodland. When only a small number
of traps is employed, as at Moor Copse, the rel-
ative numbers of Bank Vole and Wood Mouse caught
may depend on the time of day at which the traps
are cleared and reset. If this is done in the
morning, the more diurnal voles may occupy traps
which are then unavailabke to the nocturnal
mice, and vice versa.

Arvicola amphibius L. Water Vole. Up to three in the streams at
Thatcham Marsh between 25.10.71 and 29.3.723; one
on the Sul brook, Pangbourne, 28.10.71 and
29.8.72; one on R. Kennet at Theale gravel pit,
Load a Plia. 20 eles Plgr 19n 7672) and Aprids 1LOV/e2s:-one
on Foudry Brook, Mortimer, 11.7.72 (all ZZK).

= HOG

Microtus agrestis (L.) Short-tailed Vole One taken in the Moor Copse
i fi Nature Reserve beside a

field path, 14.4,.72 (RMC).

Contributors: Alwynne Bowyer

Re, Min Cross
Malcolm J. Hitchcock
Zbigniew and Zdsislaw Karpowicz
Gillian Neate
Kevin Roff
Mrs. E, M. Trembath
J. F, Wright

Addenda. /

Sorex minutus Le Fygmy Shrew. Seen on bridge, Thatcham Marsh, 1.1.72 (ZZK).

Neomys fodiens Pennant Water Shrew. Thatcham Marsh 26.10.71, (ZZK).
One caught by cat, Kingwood Common, 15.8.72
(S.J. Stanford),

The Recorder's Report for Botany
1972

by B. M. Newman

Records sent in by the following members are gratefully acknow-
ledged:= Mr. P. Andrews (PA), Dr. H. J. M. Bowen (HJMB); Miss L. E.
Cobb (LEC); Mrs. M. Reiss, (MR) se :Dracd..Toothill (JT); Mrs. Ey. Ms
Trembath (EMT); Miss J. M. Watson (JMW).

The nomenclature and order are according to the "Flora of the
British Isles" by Clapham, Tutin and Warburg, 2nd edition 1962. An
alien taxon is indicated by an asterisk (*). English names in common
use have been given where possible and more recently invented names
are put in quotation marks.

List of Members! Records

*Selaginella kraussiana (Kunze) A. Br.
By Silwood House and by pond in Japanese Garden, Silwood Park. (HJMB)

Ophioglossum vulgatum L. Adder's Tongue

Bere Court, Pangbourne. Several well grown plants found in long
grass by P. Barney. (EMT) —

- Ranunculus arvensis L. Corn Buttercup — 'Corn Crowfoot!
One plant found on disturbed ground, Shinfield Road, opposite
Cutbush Lane. (JT)

Papaver argemone L. ‘Long Prickly-headed Poppy'
Cornfield near the Fair Mile. (HJMB) -
Corydalis claviculata (L.) DC ‘White Climbing Fumitory'

Clay. Hill, Stanford Dingley. (EMT)

Fumaria micrantha Lag.
Cornfield near the Fair Mile. (HJMB)

-Fumaria vaillantii Lois. .
Cornfield near the Fair Mile. (HJMB)

Lepidium campestre (L.) R. Br. Pepperwort
Several plants on bank of ditch near High Copse Farm, Shinfield. (JT)

= 2s

*Cardaria draba (L.) Desv. "Hoary Cress! "Hoary Pepperwort'!
On disturbed ground at junction of Brooker's Hill with Hollow Lane,
Shinfield. (JT)

*Erysimum cheiranthoides L. Treacle Mustard
Cornfield, Pangbourne. (EMT)
Reseda luteola L. Weld, Dyer's Rocket
Several plants on waste ground near school in Shinfield. (PA)

*Cistus laxus Ait.
One bush among native vegetation in Silwood Park. (HJMB)

Cerastium azrvense L. 'Field Mouse-ear Chickweed!
Aldworth Downs. (EMT)

Scleranthus annuus L. "Annual Knawel'
In stubble field by the Fair Mile. (HJMB)

*Montia perfoliata (Willd.) Howell
Appeared 1971 and 1972 in shrubbery near Sidr oc ed bloek,oNed s8.D.,

Shinfield. Origin unknown. (JT)

Geranium pyrenaicum Burm. f. | "Mountain Cranesbill'!
Thames tow=path, Basildon. (EMT)

Geranium columbinum L. 'Long-stalked Cranesbill'
Old railway track, Long Lane, Hermitage. (HJMB)
*Oxelis europaea Jord. "Upright Yellow Sorrel!
In dumped soil, Whiteknights Park. (HJMB)
*Impatiens capensis Meerburgh Orange Balsam, Jewel Weed

Occasional on banks of River Loddon above and below Arborfield Mill.
(PA)

*Impatiens glandulifera Royle Himalayan Balsam, Policeman's Helmet
Now rampant along both banks of River Loddon above and below
Arborfield Mill. It has spread very rapidly along the river during
the last four or five years and plants up to twelve feet tall were
found two years ago. (PA).

Ononis repens L. Restharrow
Waste ground near Shinfield school. (JT)

Melilotus altissima Thuill. "Tall Melilot'
Waste ground at corner of London Road and London’ Street, Reading. (BMN)

Trifolium medium L. Zig-zag Clover
Railway bank near Winnersh Halt. (HJMB)

Trifolium striatum L. ‘Sott Treiei)"
On tipped soil near South Lake, Woodley. (HJMB)

Anthyllis vulneraria L. Kidney-vetch Ladies' Fingers
Disused railway line at Upton. (LEC)

*Robinia pseudoacacia L. False Acacia
Several small trees, roadside, Farley Hill. (PA)

Lathyrus aphaca L. Yellow Vetchling
Dry Sandford Pit near Cothill. (JMW)

Apium inundatum (L) Rchb. f.
Scarce, on muddy peat at South Lake, Woodley. (HJMB)

Sison amomum L. Stone Parsley
In hedgebanks near Donnington Castle. (HJMB)

= 2be

*Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb.'& Zucc. Japanese Knotweed
Several well established clumps on banks of River Loddon at Arborfield

Mill. (PA)

*Gaultheria shallon Pursh
Swinley Park, and near Caesar's Camp. E. E. Green. (HJMB)

Galluna vulgaris (L.) Hull Ling, Heather

A few plants. in Wilderness, Whiteknights Park. (HJMB)
Primula veris L. X vulgaris Huds. Gommon Oxlip

One plant at Berm Court, Pangbourne. (EMT)
Blackstonia perfoliata (L.) Huds. Yellow-wort

Disused railway line at Upton. (LEC)

Linaria purpurea (L.) Mill. X repens (L.) Mill.
Railway bank, Hermitage. Miss W. A. Keens. (HJMB)

Linaria repens (L.) Mill. 'Pale Toad-flax'
Disused railway line at Upton. (LEC) ;

Orobanche elatior Sutton “Tall Broomrape', Great Broomrape
Very plentiful on verge each side of road leading to Churn, one
eighth of a mile from the main road, Blewbury. (MR)

Verbena officinalis L. Vervain

In wood near Pangbourne. (HJMB)
Stachys palustris L. ‘Marsh Woundwort'!

Childe=Beale Trust, Basildon. A very fine colony. (EMT)
Lamium amplexicaule L. Henbit

Woodhouse Farm, Hailey. (EMT)

Lamium hybridum Vill. 'Cut-leaved Dead=-nettle!
Woodhouse Farm, Hailey. (EMT)

Plantago coronopus L. Buck's-horn Plantain
Silwood Park, rare. E.E. Green. (HJMB)

*Campanula_persicifolia L.
Railway bank, east of Bracknell. (HJMB)

Legousia hybrida (L.) Delarb. Venus's Looking-glass
Cornfield near Pangbourne, near the Fair Mile. (HJMB)
Bidens tripartita L. 'Tripartite Bur-Marigold'
One plant in ditch on waste ground near Shinfield School. (JT)
Inula conyza_ DC Ploughman's Spikenard
Disused railway line at Upton. (LEC)
Erigeron acer L. 'Blue Fleabane! -
Disused railway line at Upton. (LEC )
Chrysanthemum segetum L. Corn Marigold

Three or four plants on roadside verge, Greensward Lane, Arborfield.
(PA)

*Echinops sphaerocephalus L. Globe Thistle
Roadside, Earley. (HJMB)

Onopordum acanthium L. Scotch Thistle, Cotton Thistle
Roadside bank, M4 near Yattendon. (HJMB)
*Cicerbita macrophylla (Willd.) Wallr. Sow Thistle

Very profuse before aT eee sign on Wantage Road entrance to
Streatley. (MR)

~ 43 -

*Hieracium aurantiacum L.
Rough field, Emery Acres, Upper Basildon. (EMT)

*Elodea canadensis Michx. Canadian Pondweed
Quantities in flower in newly made ponds at Childe-Beale Trust,
Basildon. (EMT)

Ruscus acvleatus L. Butcher's Broom
Wood near Pangbourne. (HJMB)

Epipactis leptochila (Godf.) Godf. 'Narrow-lipped Helleborine'
Several plants flowering in beech wood, Westfield, Lower Basildon.

(EMT ) |
Ophrys apifera Huas. Bee Orchid

Several plants on grass slopes east of Hardwick Estate. Nine plants
with flowers lacking in red pigment on chalk grass slopes above
Hartslock Woods. (EMT)

Dactylorchis fuchsii (Druce) Vermeul. Common Spotted Orchid

Two plants near Whiteknights Lake, Earley. (HJMB)
Anacamptis pyramidaiis (L.) Rich. 'Pyramidal Orchid'

On verge in Wantage Road, Streatley, by "High View" entrance. (MR)
Field, west of Stonycroft Plantation, Whitchurch. Sixty eight plants
were counted in about 40 m“, where only five or six plants had been
seen for the past seven years. (EMT)

Widespread on rough chalk grassland west of Path Hill. (EMT)

Cavex pseudocyperus L. ‘Cyperus Sedge!
Swinley Park. E. E. Green. (HJMB)

South bank of River Loddon, between A327 and Arborfield Hall Farm.
(JT)

Carex vesicaria L. "Bladder Sedge'

Swinley Park. E.E. Green. (HJMB)
Carex hirta L. Hammer Sedge

North bank of River Loddon between A327 and Arborfield Hall Farm. (JT)
Carex otrubae Podp. 'False Fox-sedge'

Ditch, Church Lane, Three Mile Cross, and north bank of River Loddon
between A327 and Arborfield Hall Farm. (Jf)

Carex divulsa Stokes "Grey Sedge!
Bank, Hollow Lane, Shinfield. (JT)
Carex spicata Huds. ‘Spiked Sedge!

Beside footpath near boiler house, N.I.R.D., Shinfield, and foot-
bridge near Parnot Farm, Shinfield. “Cory

Carex remota L. "Remote Sedge!
Ditch, Church Lane, Three Mile Cross, and north bank of River Loddon
between A327 and Arborfield Hall Farm. (JT)

*Lolium temulentum L. Darnel
Small Mead Tip. (HJMB)

*Briza maxima L.
Near metoerological station in Silwood Park. (HJMB)

*Ceratochloa carinata (Hook. & Arn.) Tutin
Small Mead Tip. (HJMB)

Nardus stricta L. Mat-grass
Locally abundant at Bulmershe. (HJMB )

by A. E, Moon

The data refer to Reading University Meteorological Station, Since this is a new
te, as mentioned in the summary for 1971, the averages for the old London Road site
2 no longer applicable and are omitted Prom this summary. As from 1st January, 1972
1 temperature records were made in Celsius degrees, new thermometers being supplied hy
2 Meteorological Office graduated in this scale, This is now standard practice, A
nversian table is included for convenience of those who would like to convert to
hrenheit degrees, A "rain day" is a day on which rainfall equals or exceeds 0.2 m,

= dj ie
WEATHER RECORDS IN 1972 .
more, For the designation of frost and ground frost days see Weather Records jin 196, i

:

TIO! — READING UNIVERSITY, HEIGHT ABOVE MEAN SEA LEVEL - 215 ft.
Tey Fore Tow: 2 a i “~“Tloseioy ft

LOTTETUrrncerrree renee? i ei CE

N N
srmemmeerreeimntinienmeneRearitate deeqecerinirereirerrermnenee) Brveee et eee waveveores Bt ada renner genes een remerigerers pirates ses oe youre ven eri cereerrertuentiperenetreterreeite soorirerery rovers veveevecveewrersdectiiillinen’

at + MAX, [6h | Ta rest | 0 | hs 159 2h 204 : 16.5: 14.9 19.5 1 8
DAILY i MIN. a

EMPERA TURES
OF

s
caaadia, teadaadaneddad PO OTOO TET af tea, Addenda eae nevereen OOOO POOL ETAL TVELTLEE

§ i .
; JAN. : FEB. = MAR, t APRe MAY $ JUNE : P JULY : AUG. ; SEPT: OCT. NOV, Poe.) YER q
i
7 al

2.6 | 52) 6.8! Bel Teta Tel Tah 3h
13 | 06 | 19/20 | 16h | [sar | 2a) Hal | 6,3

ae
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eeererses i a cs: tee bas

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dad wenn ee) Qeeverserser
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OC TE eoceertuarencecees

oo |
‘oe
: Z|
: MEAN. : 3.9 : 4.8 +
ee

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i

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3.
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ENPERATURES ‘ce aa are are he of = |

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ee eee ae rane |

§ i : i : i Hq : Ep : ’ i

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S jew. GRASS MIN. peel. : : Oe) L et 5.8 a 4.6 as i i Oe. ie a he 2] =e Be 6 st = Cl

ea og | see i ea 120 Me ss 1 ae a

_* "promo Fast | 16 | 18 | at tot th £20 ba | 18 |

st ctteoeeenes ecco vee stl oss ecb sS Pes FORLCOTRTOOT CIC E ey a aa et es a on , Ss ee id anaes PENI LET TT

UNSHINE HOURS

ie

SUM. pied 350 1592 uh L 3 hos tw. “m5 196.9 (1 14061 1153, 046 | Sah
ap Rir it a ae pe aa nt
a oe at 35 | 35 | 37 Lew LT 8 | 30 0 | 2 Bact
iY) "
HUE od al whol Soll 602, $565 6k] bal 3y72 fae oa
AMOUNT mc 21 ang hhh 0196 Wed | 3305 32a8 | 25e1 | 35,01 230 28h Dal. 1 TBO io Btn

ea S048 * tats
RAIN DAYS 6 ie Srmrdeald {18 | an

neu rbot es

8
eee
> Nn
a

=

tanssascases D a reeeerieess
VOMeseeenaesee een arenee ves CUEVAETUSIOL#EEE,

RECIP| TATION

MeMe

Drerrerece

m

ecreueers

TE TTO EE erect:

t
e"
b.
:
" sessasis
:
be:
N
3

perecconcenerspad Hsien)

ssushenenriusussserssaereseowecsseeetscuuss#Qsrtes t¥OrfUereew ess ieHessPentqeseeeeeTeeestt a

LONGEST FUN OF CONSECUTIVE = ge Ae EE ; PERE |
a oe ee ee i ae AMS
LONGEST RUN OF CONSECUTIVE | ee ee | nt ae |
wl BY. DAYS rn A a mat Lo Se

SHO OR SLEET DAYS 0 i |

i Miia hes mh

DAYS SHOW LYING | et |

ernnrereiies ireeees

s wae
ANDERSTORN
TIVITY

snevevecersseceeenrten

i
t A :

PCO AOA ORLA ANON OTTO ROOTTTE
= t
7

DAYS OF HAIL | O

= hyip Bip

CONVERSION OF DEGREES CELSIUS TO FAHRENHEIT

40° to -20°

[e.@)

~~ UN MN et OD CO /O
BS «I= (G40 20 ©

nr oO De
aN] oa

a rr

at Mh CO Oey H a
Mo 16 ho 1 aA A IN
Ma OOO WM
wo woo HA WN WH
Mt DOW +t A
oO NNW WH W
MH AR Ht A
KONO) EN UR LN tN
Nm a wm SM ab et
aA dA AA A A

January

- February

March

dune

August

September

October

November

December

uw Loe

MONTHLY WEATHER NOTES, 1972

A rather dull month but mainly mild except during the
last few days. The air minimum on 3lst was the low-

est recorded in any month since January 1963.

This was the warmest February since 1967 but it was
also the wettest and dullest since 1966.

The sunniest and warmest March since 1967 and wettest
since 1964. Day temperature reached 15.56° me (60.0°F)
for the first time this year on 15th (17.9 zo is

This was the warmest April since 1967, largely due to
the warmer than average night temperatures.

The coldest May since 1968 and dullest since 1969.
There were oniy five days scattered throughout the
month on which less than 0.2 mm. of rain fell and
only one of these was completely rainless (the 19th).
The number of rain days was the largest for any May
in the University records immediately available
going back to 1918.

This was the coldest June since relaible records
started at the University in 1921 and the first time
zi al that period that a day maximum temperature of
21.1°C (70.0°F) has not been reached. It is also
remarkable that the highest temperature reached this
year (to 30th June) was 19. 4°g (66.9 OF) on 17th March.
The number of ground frosts was the highest in June,
the previous highest being six in 1956.

This was the dullest July since 1968, and the
maximum temperature of 26.3 C on 17th was the low-
est in July since 1966.

The coldest August since 1968 and the driest and
sunniest sinse 1964. A drought period existed by
the 28th. The number of ground frosts was highest
in any August since 1921, when there were four.

The coldest September since 1952. A drought period
of twenty-five days ended on 8th.

A drought period of twenty days ended on 9th and
also a period of fifteen days on 27th.

The first air frost of thr winter occurred on 9th
and the first ice was noted on pools on 14th. The
first sleet of the winter occurred on 23rd.

This was the sunniest December since 1967 but the
wettest since 1968; it was also the wettest month
Since June 1971.

Temperature failed to reach 26.67°C (80.0°F) this year,
the first time since 1962.

- ABA

ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION

Measurements of smoke concentration and sulphur dioxide (S0O.)
are summarised in the following table.
of daily measurements of smoke and SO, pollution by air filter and
volumetric method respectively from apparatus installed in the

Geography Department, Reading University, at Whiteknights.

Smoke Concentration
Microgrammes per cu. m.

Month
January 38
February*| 36
March 38
April el
May 7
June 5
Julyg 7

ugust oe:

eptember | 28

ctober 25

ovember 23

ecember | 37

Year | 22

105
|

118
129

ay

29

12

156

156

{
|
! H
1 '

Mean | Highest

6th

e5th
17th

L2 th

end

13th

) LSttind,

23th

eend
eend

Sist
24th

18th

18th
Dec,

2

3

als

2

3

L

O

Lowest

Leth

2nd,15th
kth
2nd,30th
23rd,25th
26th,28th
29th,30th
2-8th,17th
20th, 24th,
25th, 30th

ist

Sth
LOth
29th

12th,19th,

20th

let fora

4th March
lst July
5th Aug.

U

* Elecrticity cuts due to miners’

g Electricity cut

strike

Sulphur Dioxide (SO
Concentration

They constitute the results

>)

Microgrammes per cu. m.

Mean Highest
103 |274 6th
94 1308 25th
118 | 369 17th
55 97 16th
17th

59 |129 2nd
34 | 51 Ist
27th,
28-9th
45} 65 . 11th,
13th,

29th

1? 1105 .2o5ed
56 -|123 28th
75 1219 6th
69 1174 24th
88 1382 18th
70 1382 18th
Dec.

{

Lowest

5Q-+ TA,
26th

45 19th
a Sst
26 22nd
38 23rd,
ovycr,
28-9th
16° ?eOth
2b 20th
L? 9th
25 ip hige|
25" 18th;
2end

25 29th
19 1st
£3 Meth
June

~~ ht a.
Membership. List

Honorary Members

Chandy, Mrs. A., Clarence Lodge, 93 London Road, Reading RG1 5DBY
Hora, Dr. F. B., Dept. Botany, The University, Reading
Sandels, Mrs. H., Stonecroft, 33 Walterbush Road, Chipping Norton
OX7 5DP
Vear, To, 134 Shinfield Road, Reading
Watson, E. V., B.Sc., Ph.D., F.L.S., Littlecourt, Cleeve, Goring-
on-Thames, Oxon,
Watson, Iiiss J. M., 30 Westwood Road, Tilehurst, Reading

Ordinary and Junior Members

Allen Stephen, 36 Upper Redlands Road, Reading
Andrews, Pe, Ph.D., 9 Wychwood Close, Earley, Reading
Annereau, EH. A., 272 Silverdale es Perley Beading
Annereau, Mrs., 4 si
Ashwell, Mrs. K. M., 7 Woodland aa Tilehurst, Reading
Baker, 3. Re, B.Sc., F.MA., F.R.E.S., 5 Dovedale Close, The Mount,
Caversham, Reading
Baker, Mrs. He, <u " " "
Baker, Miss Anns ” ~ i .
Beeman Miss J. C., 2 Tilehurst Road, Reading
eeSley, Ae, 27 Western Elms Avenue, Reading
see Pe, 3 Tupsley Bo Coley Park, Reading
Beane, Mrse, *
Bentall, Miss E. M., Crooksbury, 144 Upper Woodcote Road, Caversham,
Reading
Bernard, Miss B., 10 Deepdene Close, Reading
Blackwell, Mrs. E. R., 81 Wilderness Road, Reading
Bowen, H. J. M., M.A., D.Phil., 20 Winchester Road, Oxford OX2 6NA
Bristow, Be, 34 Longmoor Lane, Mortimer Common, Reading
Bristow, Mrs., a " ” "
Bull, G. A., 12 Warwick Road, Reading
Bull, Mrs., " " ” "
Bunting, Prof. A. H., M.Sc., Dept. Agric. Botany, The University,
Reading
Butler, Miss K. I., 54 Alexandra Road, Reading
Carter, H. H., M,A., B.Sc., A.M.A., 82 Kennylands Road, Sonning
Common, Reading RG4 9JT
Chavasse, Rev. S. E., 18 College Road, Reading
Cheke, Miss V. E., 50 Petworth Court, Bath Road, Reading RG1l 6PH
Clements, Miss M. J. W., 108 Kenilworth Avenue, Reading
Cobb, Miss L. E., B.A., 55 Northcourt Avenue, Reading RGe 7HE
Cole, J. Ae, M.Sc., 30 Nicholas Road, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon.
Cole, Mrs. “ ByAw . t Ww tt tt " w "
Corrall, L. N., 8 Greenleas Avenue, Emmer Green, Reading RG4 8TA
Corrall Mrs ae " tT tt W ” " it Ww
Croghan, Mrs. M, A., 5 Woden House, Goring, Reading
Davey, Miss T., B.Sc., M.A., M.I.Biol., 4 Bull Meadow, Streatley,
Berks.
DAVice,. da RoaollePsSea) labs Omlues 20, nAme tone Drive, Tilehurst,
Readaae
Dicker, Miss M. J., 23/193 Wensley Road, Reading RG1 6EA
Diserens, J. N., 14 Avalon Road, Barley; Repding
Diserens, Mrs., " i a
Dowman, Miss I., 5e Vine Crescent, Burghfield Road, Reading -

= Aga

Dyczek, Christopher, 47 Argyle Street, Reading
Eagar, S., 76 Redhatch Drive, Earley, Reading
Erith, Miss A. G.,; B.Sc., Ph.D., 70 Highmoor Road, Caversham,
Reading RG4 7BG
Finn, Miss Abigail M., 130 Tilehurst Road, Reading
Fletcher, M. V., B.A., 70 South Street, meade RG1 +RA
Fletcher, Mrs. I., % i n %
Fletcher Colin, " t W A] " "
Fletcher, Katherine, “ " + n “ 4
Flower, Mrs. C. D. Re, SuR.New, FL.Z.Se, 77 Whitexnights Road,
Reading RG6 2BB
Foat, N. J, W., Flat 2, 40 Redlands Road, Reading
eee DY mnie rie 18 Betchworth reenrer Baer eee
Foley-Fisher, Mrse, . ‘ " ni
Foley-Fisher, David, it! $y - " My
Prank, Mrse.iC o Muy leshanice ain Riverview Road, Pangbourne, Berks.
Gambles, R. M., West Warren, Warren Road, Woodley, Reading
Gambles, Mrse, " ” ih Ly " W
Goold, Mrs. E. M., 15 St. Bartholomew's Road, Reading
Gwatkin, T. L., M.A., 14 Courtenay Drive, Emmer Green, Reading
Hall, Mrs. M. E., B.Sc., Garth House, St. John's Road, Mortimer,
Reading
Harding, Bellapais, 31 Folder's Lane, Bracknell, Berks.
ferding, Mrs. J. C., PhoDs, ™ " ” ”
Haray, M. Gey M.A., Dept. Zoology, Thr University, London Road,
Reading
Harper, R. E., 6 Fernbrook Road, Caversham, Reading
Harrigan, Dr. W., 68 Winton Road, Reading
Harrigan, Mrs., m ?
ferris, Prof..T Mi, MeAci) PR Sigal .L.S5,.4. Dept... of. Geology; The
University, Reading
Harrison, M. Bs, Oak Drive, nese ets Berks.
eeicon, MrSo, a si m
Hartwell, V., 37 Byron Road, Hanley, Reals ng RG4 1EP
Hartwell, Mrs., Bay ih “ "
Hawkins, Mrs, S,, 63 Tilehurst Road, Reading
Heather, F. L., 6 Pembroke Places Caversham, Reading RGH OHU
Heather, Mrs., " “4 “
Hemken, E., Audley House, Station Roaé@, Earley, Berks.
Hibbert, Miss C., B.A., 21 Caroline Court, Bath Road, Reading
Highwood, Miss S., 6 Southern Hill, Redlands Road, Reading
Homer, T. J. Ge, M.A., St. Timothee, Pinkneys Green, Oxon.
Housden, Mrs. H. V., 9 Knowle Close, Upper Woodcote Road, Caversham,
Reading RG4 7LH
Housden, Miss J. M. V., B.Sc., - * : sy | fo
Ingram, Miss G. M., 14 Haddon Drive, Woodley, nr. Reading RG5 4LU
feving, H. D., B.Sc.,.20 Grosvenor Rhoads Caversham, Reading
Irving, Mrs., " * : =)
Johnson, T., 54 Albert Road, Caversham, Reading
Jones, Stephen, 162 Kentwood Hill, Reading
Jones, We, B.Sco, 9 Micklands Road, Caversham, Reading
Jones, Ian, " it " " "
Kay, Mrs. Be, M.Sc., 39 St. Peter's Avenue, Caversham, Reading
memp, B. Ro, BsAc, Phe D.gaSts> Patricks Hall, Northcourt,Avenue,
Reading
Knowles, John, 17 Broomfield Road, ' . ,-“"DPilehtrstyaReading
Knowles, Stephen, " w " "
Lambden, Mrs. H. D., B.Sc., 74 Beech Lane, Barley, Reading
Lappin, G., 45 Gloucester Road, Reading

~ 54.

Lawton, Fe, 20 Fawcett Crescent, en eps pes
Lawton, David, mM "
Leatherdale, Brg F.L.S., F.R.E.S., 7 Kinecroft, Wallingford, Berks.
Tel. Crowmarsh 4665
Leeke, C. J., B.Sc«, A.M.1.Biol., 1 Heathway, Chapel Hill, Tilehurst
Reading
Leeke, Mrs. ‘ W " " w " >t |
Leeke, Roger Ge, 7 Heathway, Chapel Hill, Reading
Levy, B. Ge, BeA., Ph.D., Tinepits Cottage, Whitchurch Hill, Reading
Lewis, B. E. C., 13 Buxton Avenue, Caversham, Reading
Lewis, Mrs., " " " " "W
Lewis, Miss P. u., 39 Salcombe Drive, Earley, Reading
Lush, Miss G. M., 32 Matthews Green ees Wokingham, aso:
Lush, Be, " " " "
nonce Miss Lynda, 6 Briar Close, mare ata Reading
McKenzie, Mrs. I. J., B.Sc., Penard, 96 Elvendon Road, Goring-on-
Thames, Reading RG8 ODR
Mannes-Abbott, Mrs. S., Sorrel, Castle End Lane, Ruscombe, Twyford,
: Berks.
Mason, Miss D., B.A., 4 Selva Court, Kendrick Road, Reading RG1 5DT
Mayes, Miss A. E., B.Pharm., M.P.S., 5A The Precinct, Milestone
Way, Emmer Green, Reading
Meek, Mrs. P.A., 42 Alexandra Road, oe
Meek, Miss Ca, 2 * ”
Noon: A. E., F.R.Met.S., Flat 22, Leighton Court, Pepper Lane,
Earley, Reading RG6 2SG
Needs, Miss B., 6 Prospect Street, Reading
Nelmes, Miss E. M., M.A., Dormers, 194 Cainscross Road, Stroud,
Glos. Tel. Stroud 2666
Newman, J. F., B.Sco, F.R.E.S., Earley Cottage, 25 Beech Lane,
oon “pi ee RG6 2PT
Newman, Mrs. B. M., B.SCo, 2 x ¥
Newman, John, u " ” " "
Olver, Miss C., 5 Flaxman Close, Earley, Reading
Owen, Dr. H., Dept. Agric. Botany, The University, Reading
Padley, F. Ce, 2 Eldon Place, Reading
Parkinson, Miss I. N., B.A., 10 Fern Close, Goring-on-Thames,
Reading RG8& OAR
Paterson, Mrs. Ke, 53 Alexandra Road, Reading
Paul, Mrs. V. N., B.Se., Overdale, Peppard Common, Oxon.
Beane. Ee, 9 Amity Road, ——s
Pearce, Mrse, MY 4]
Phillips, Mrs. V. A., 3 Longleaze, Wootton Bassett, Wilts.
Point onjy Heo 4° 29 ig RE, oor on-Thames, ae
Poinvony Mrs...” ™
Pottsy TeiAnsg Evga Manor, Lambourne, Berks.
Pretlove, Dr. A., 11 Kenilworth Avenue, Reading
Pretlove, Mrs., . " aa “4
Price, Ae, 6 Mansfield Road, Reading
Reiss, Mrs. M. C., Ridgeways, Wantage Road, Streatley, Reading
RG8 OLA
Rhodes, Mrs. K. F,, B.Sc., 65 Tilehurst Road, Reading RG3 2JC
Robertson, Miss I. S., 81 Westwood Green, Cookham, Berks.
Rose, G,. Ne, 27 Coley —" —— RGL 6AE
Rose, Mrs., am ye
Rose, Miss Jenny, " mn " " 8
pomarords os Beh 29 ie Sakae wee Tilehurst, Reading RG3 4LX
Sandford, Mrsigeh" ” ¥ " ™

=~ 5152

Sell, M. R. W., B.A., 72 Westwood,Glen, Tilehurst, pettus
foil, Mrs. J. Rey : " ” ia
Piceinghnm, J. G. To, 14 Shooters Hill, Pangbourre, Berks.
Smith, R. H., B.A., M.Sc., Wantage Hall, Upper Redlands Road,
Reading RG1 5JG
Street, Mrs. H. A., Vienna, New Road, Holyport, Maidenhead, Berks.
Surplice, Kenneth, 3 Savernake Close, Tilehurst, Reading
Tarrant, Paul, 109 Norfolk Road, Reading RG3 2EQ
Taylor, Mrs. W. A. Norman, 143 London Road, Reading
Thiel, Mrs. H. M., Torbreck, Oatlands Road, Shinfield, Reading
RG2 ODN
Tofield, Mrs. Oe, Ingaro, Stuart Road, Wash.Common, Newbury, Berks.
Toothill, Dr. Joyce, 15 Birdhill Avenue, Reading RG2 7JT
Towers, Mark S., 24 De Beauvoir Road, Reading
Townend, Miss S. Y., B.Sc., 6/74 Wensiey Road, Reading RG1 6DN
Trembath, Mrse, 5 Thames Avenue, Pangbourne, Berks.
Trickett, Miss S., 44 Inglewood Court, Liebenrood Road, Reading
Mameent, Sy Ass» mpedlangan 46 Cockney al ey Berane
incent, Mrs., '
Minecnt, W. R., Cray cottage, Harpsden woods, Honeys on-Thames, Oxon.
Waencent, Mre,. V., " sl " " “
Vincent, Clare, " " wt " u " "W "
Merent, Miss fF, M. O., F.L.S., 139 St. Peter's Road, Harley,
Reading
Walker, Miss Rosemary, B.Sc., Oakways, Russell Road, Tokers Green,
Reading
Ward, D. J., 31 Elsley Road, Tilehurst, Beading
herd, Mess Key si “i m
Ward, Penelope, " " mt u
Ward, Richard, a “. o "
Mard, J. La, 10 Uffington elope Tilehurst, Booaane
Ward, Mrs., m "
Ward, John, Ww Ww " " Ww
Ward, Sandra, ? Ww tt " tw
Pee son, Cx fe Cy, Foxhril ities Playhatch, crt ota
Watson, Mrs., " "
White, Mrs. D., 66 Berkeley ees Reading
Whiteway, Miss Jennie, B.Sc., 16 Swanston Field, Whitchurch,
Reading RG8 7HP
Whitfield, Mrs. S. J., Ashdown, Basingstoke Road, Spencers Wood,
Reading RG7 1PH
Whittaker, Mrs.-P. M., 67 Inglewood Court, Liebenrood Road, Reading
Wilcock, Mrs. M', 24 Coley Avenue, Reading RGl 619
Wilkinson, W., 6 Cedar Close, Wokingham, Berks. RG1l1 1KA

- 52 -

Schools

Abbey School, Kendrick Road, Reading
Bulmershe Se uOUT. Chequers Way Woodley, Berks.
Carmel College eel History Society, Carmel College, Mongeweli
Park, Wallingford, Berks.
Forest School (The Biology subieeyy, Robinhood Lane, Winnersh,
Hern.
Highdown Comprehensive School, Emmer Green, Reading
Kendrick School, London Road, Reading
Leighton Park School, Shinfield Road, Reading
Reading School, Erléigh Road, mune ike RG1l 5LW
Redlands Primary School, Lydford Road, Reading
The Science Department (Dr. A. M. B. Whitaker), Reading College of
Technology, King's Road, Reading
St. Joseph's Convent, Broad Oak, Upper Redlands Road, Reading
(Mrs. Twitchett)
Southlands Girls' School, Northumberland Avenue, Reading (The
(Head Mistress)

i

:
iret