Bird report for ..

Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union

BIRD REPORT

MAN ft

QL

690
.G7
074
1 996

Compiled by W. F. CURTIS

for 1996

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W. F. CURTIS, FARM COTTAGE, CHURCH LANE, ATWICK,

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F """ c " yer: Yellow-Browed Warbler, East Coast, by Yuri Gabrilovich

Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union Ornithological Section

Officers:

Chairman of the Ornithological General Committee:

J. E. Dale, Huddersfield

Secretary of the Ornithological General Committee:

W. F. Curtis, Atwick

Reports Committee:

Chairman: By rotation.

Secretary: W. F. Curtis, Farm Cottage, Church Lane, Atwick, Great Driffield.

Tel: 01964 532477 [until 31 October 2000]

Editor: W. F. Curtis, [as above],

Vice-County Recorders:

VC 61: G. E. Dobbs, 12 Park Avenue, Princes Avenue, Hull. HU5 3ER.

Tel: 01482 341524

VC 62: D. Bywater, 2 High Moor Way, Eastfield, Scarborough. YOU 3LP.

Tel: 01723 582619

VC 63: (Until 31 Dec 1999). J. E. Dale [as above]

(From 1 Jan 2000). L. G. Degnan, 29 Bell Rope Acre, Armthorpe,
Doncaster. DN3 3EG Tel: 01302 835094
with M. Barnett, 12 Woodlands Close, Denby Dale,
Huddersfield. HD8 7RH Tel: 01484 865961
VC 64: (Until 31 Dec 1999). S. P. Singleton

(From 1 Jan 2000). J. Pewtress, 31 Piercy End, Kirbymoorside,

York. Y062 6DQ. Tel: 01751 431001

VC 65: N. J. Morgan, “Linden", Church View, Ainderby Steeple, Northallerton,

DL7 9PU. Tel: 01609 770168

Report for 1996. Compiled and Edited by W. F. Curtis.

A total of 297 species was recorded in Yorkshire during the period covered by this report. Of
these, some 150 were proven to have bred whilst a further five may have done so. Two species
were recorded for the first time in the County; Great Knot, which visited the Yorkshire side of
the Tees occasionally during its stay on that estuary and a Lesser Scaup which spent seven days
in the Wakefield area. Several other very rare species were reported; Black Stork, the fifth
occurrence this century; Semi-palmated Sandpiper, third occurrence; Franklin's Gull, fourth;
Lanceolated Warbler, second; Paddyfield Warbler, third; Blyth's Reed Warbler, fifth and Pine
Bunting, third. Two other species. Pechora Pipit, third and Pied Wheatear also for the third
time, were recorded at Flamborough though details have, as yet, to be supplied to the British

Birds Rarities Committee.

Great Crested and Little Grebe both continue to slowly increase and spread in range whilst
Black-necked Grebe had a record year at the LDNNR. Gannets continue to increase at

Bempton as do all other seabirds along the Flamborough headland. Cormorant maintains a
toehold as an inland breeder, at the LDNNR, and gives every indication of consolidating this
status. Grey Heron again increased jn jijtjp^s'jtvitlpt le^joi^: ^er^hreeding location reported

LIBRARY

AT

QL 2

and has obviously benefited from the continuation of mild winters. Waterfowl , on the whole,
did well, particularly the introduced species, Grey Lag Goose; Canada Goose and Ruddy Duck,
which all continue to thrive and spread though both Garganey and Pintail had very successful
seasons. Red-breasted Merganser bred successfully with Goosander, although details were
sketchy, thought to be at least consolidating its range if not continuing a slow expansion.
Raptors, also had a good year though again, details are not always forth-coming. Peregrine has
not, as yet, reached the coastal cliffs but it can only be a matter of time. Spotted Crake was
though to have bred at the LDNNR whilst Water Rail did well at all locations where proven to
have bred. Waders had a mixed year though, in some cases, lack of records did not assist in the
compilation of the true status whilst neither Ruff nor Black-tailed Godwit were proven as
breeding. Bam Owl continues to increase in the south-east of the County being assisted by the
ample provision of nest-boxes whilst Lesser Spotted Woodpecker may slowly be extending its
range eastwards. Mistle Thrush has been reported in ever increasing numbers in the east of the
County, now being quite common in areas where, 15 years ago, it was absent. The highlight of
the year, however, was the successful breeding of the White-spotted race of Bluethroat, not
only the first occurrence for Yorkshire but also for Britain. Other passerines, generally, did well
excepting Black Redstart, which was not thought to have bred, and Siskin, which was
particularly scarce, thus both gaving cause for concern.

Of non-breeding birds. White-billed Diver was, once again, recorded. Both Red-necked and
Slavonian grebes were reported in belter than usual numbers though, of the more unusual
seabirds, both Great and Cory’s Shearwaters had poor years. Herons were well distributed with
the sixth occurrence of Cattle Egret plus, of course, the Black Stork. White Stork was recorded
on several occasions though, with this species, the origin of some individuals will always be
suspect. A similar sentiment must be expressed concerning waterfowl, in particular this year,
with the Lesser White-fronted Goose which frequented the River Hull valley near TLNR and
the various Red-crested Pochards. The long-staying Ring-necked Duck(s) again frequented the
River Aire valley/Wakefield areas whilst, during the winter. Smew, again, were quite
widespread; [the same, returning wintering birds?]. Scarce waders were quite well represented
with the fourth inland occurrence of Broad-billed Sandpiper [and only the eighth inland record
for Britain] and the sixth record of Lesser Yellowlegs, at Flamborough, although this record has
still to be submitted to the BBRC, a full account with photograph, is in the public domain.
Warblers were well represented with Booted [two together]; Subalpine; Greenish; Arctic and
Pallas's all being recorded though the last was a little scarce by recent standards. Red-breasted
Flycatchers appeared in good numbers, particularly, at Flamborough, whilst Arctic Redpolls,
many probably having arrived in 1995, were quite widespread. Four species of bunting were
reported; Ortolan; Rustic; Little and Yellow-breasted.

This is the last YNU Ornithological Report I will be compiling; after 1 1 years I feel ready for
a break. Generally, 1 have enjoyed my time as Editor though, occasionally, have felt a little
frustrated no more so than when seeing records in local or even national newspapers that have
not been supplied to the County Recorder. Many things are changing with the future Reports
probably having a slightly different composition, the Annual Report being less daunting and
bland, covering the scarcer birds with a larger Report, giving up-dates on status and breeding,
at intervals of about every three years. I have been very appreciative of the support given to me
over the years and trust, and know, that all observers will continue to support the new Editor
and VC Recorders in the same way.

I

Bill Curtis. July 2000.

Classified List

3

All rare and unusual species in this Report have been considered by the Reports Committee
and, unless otherwise specified, have been found acceptable on the written evidence supplied
by the observers. Where applicable, records have been accepted by the British Birds Rarities
Committee [BBRC] unless otherwise stated. The sequence and nomenclature used is that of
Voous K. H., List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species. (1973 and 1977). B.O.U. 1977.

In this Classified List the following abbreviations have been used:-

BLNR

Beacon Lagoons Nature Reserve

HWR

Humber Wildfowl Refuge

LDNNR

Lower Derwent National Nature Reserve

RVCP

Rother Valley Country Park

TLNR

Tophill Low Nature Reserve

CP

Country Park

GP

Gravel Pit

NP

National Park

NR

Nature Reserve

Res.

Reservoir

SF/SW

Sewage Farm/Sewage Works

WeBS

Wetland Bird Survey

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata

Common coastal passage migrant and winter visitor; uncommon in summer. Scarce inland.
A record year at Flamborough although starting with only average counts; the January peak
being 1 15 on the 8th. In early February numbers increased with 245 on the 4th followed by 270
on the 1 1th then 363 on the 18th. On the 23rd, 603 flew south whilst the following day; 341
flew north and 1040 south [a record count for Yorkshire - the previous highest total being 612
at Flamborough on 14th December 1993]. 605 were recorded there on the 25th thereafter
numbers decreased. The total recorded on the 24th being some 20-30% of the UK wintering
population though even larger numbers [2000 per day] were noted in Kent during this period.
Movements elsewhere in Yorkshire did not reflect these numbers with, at Filey, on the 24th, 41
flying north and 146 south; Spurn reporting 134 on the 25th whilst very few were seen off the
Tees at South Gare. In March, the maxima recorded were 270 at Filey on the 2nd [80 in the bay
and 190 to the north] with 156 north there in five minutes on the 24th; Flamborough had 324
on the 2nd with 250 on the 24th whilst no counts over 100 were reported from Spurn. April
numbers were relatively low with maxima of 100 at Grimston on the 5th and 305 north at Spurn
on the 7th. Spring counts at Flamborough were considered as higher than usual with 52 on the
5th May and 45 on the 11th then five on both the 9th and 23rd June. In July, seven were
reported on the 14th. Autumn totals were quite ordinary with all locations reporting less than
100; 95 at Flamborough on the 29th September being the peak. Numbers increased at that
location in late November with 127 on the 21st and 129 on the 26th then, in December,
associated with cold weather, 205 were recorded on the 26th; 238 on the 28th and 300 on the
29th. Elsewhere no more than the 97 at Spurn, on the 1 7th November, were reported.

More than usual were reported inland, during the early months, in association with the cold
weather; all being of single birds. In January; at TLNR from the 6th to the 16th; Swinsty Res.
from the 20th to the 30th; Southfield Res. from the 22nd to 27th; Worsbrough Res. from the
26th to 3 1 st; Elsecar Res. from the 28th to 30th; Methley Quarry on the 27th and Hornsea Mere
on the 28th. In February; one flew south along the R. Hull near Pulfin Bog; one at Wintersett
Res. on the 2nd; Lowther Lake from the 2nd to 4th and Pulfin Bog on the 3rd; Wheldrake Ings
on the 10th then both Hornsea Mere and Burton Riggs on the 25th. One at Southfield Res. on
the 18th March with singles during April, moulting into breeding plumage, at Stamps’ Pond,
Hempholme and at Haverfield Ponds on the 5th.

4

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica

Uncommon coastal passage migrant and winter visitor: rare inland.

Reported from all coastal watch-points during the periods January to May and September to
December. Two were present at Spurn on 28th May and 18th October with three on 16th
November. Two flew south off Hornsea on 28th November whilst two were reported off
Sewerby on 15th December. Up to three were occasionally reported off Flamborough in
January with, in February, four on the 4th and seven on the 23rd. One or two there on four days
in March plus two on 1 st April. The first of the autumn there was on 8th September whilst most
occurred during November when a total of 32 birds were reported with peak daily counts of six
on both the 13th and 14th then five on the 23rd thereafter very few reported to the end of the
year. Conversely very scarce at Filey with two single birds in February as the only records.
With the exception of three off Cloughton Wyke. on 1 1 th December, few were also seen in the
Scarborough area, however, the Whitby area reported an excellent year with a total of 16 birds
including three at Stailhes/Cowbar on the 15th and 20th February: two at Ness Point on 14th
April and two off Whitby on the 30th October. Outwith this period single birds were reported
at Flamborough on the 24th June and at Saltwick Nab on 2nd July.

Three records of single birds were reported from inland locations. One flew west at Swillington
Ings on 1 3th February: a first-winter individual was at Southfield Res. on 31st December whilst
one was present at TLNR on 10th June being seen there again on the 13th. As this last bird was
seen to carry a metal ring it is almost certain it was the individual that had been present at
Bestwood [Notts] from early March. This bird was trapped on 4th June, ringed and released at
Danehill NR near Retford where it remained until the 9th [The Birds of Nottinghamshire, 1996
pps, 104-105],

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer

Scarce coastal passage migrant and winter visitor: rare inland.

Stormy weather in the Scarborough area resulted in more than usual records with four off
Cromer Point on 31st January, one of which remained in that area into March, and six in
Burniston Bay on the 21st February. Elsewhere, along the coast, Spurn reported single birds on
five days during the latter months whilst Flamborough had three on 8th January with one on
two other days that month. Five single birds were recorded there during February thereafter
none until an unseasonal bird on the 23rd June. More frequent during the latter months with
four in October including two on the 30th; six birds in November [two on the 2nd] and three
in December. The bird at Filey on 1st January had remained from 1995 whilst one, in summer
plumage, was reported on the 27th May. Only two birds were reported during the latter months,
on the 1 1 th/ 1 2th November and on the 1st December. Single birds were also reported on six
days in VC62 during the early months and on eight days during the latter.

The only inland records came from VC63 where a first-winter individual was present at
Southfield Res. on the 8th/9th January then another there from 24th November to 8th
December whilst one flew west over the RVCP on the 15th December.

White-billed Diver Gavia adamsii

Vagrant from the Arctic, almost annual in recent years.

One present in the harbour at Staithes, for half an hour, on 14th February (MAB). An adult,
moulting into winter plumage, which flew north, off Flamborough on 13th November (DB:
PAL: PJW) has yet to be submitted to the BBRC.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis

Resident breeder; passage migrant and winter visitor.

It would still appear that this species is under-reported in VC61 where breeding was reported
from only four locations. 22 pairs bred along the LDNNR with ten broods being seen totalling
23 young. A single pair bred at Haverfield Ponds whilst three pairs were reported at Filey Dams
with two breeding successfully. At Flamborough, despite no records during June, six birds were
recorded on 20th July which included a pair, a “first clutch” juvenile and three newly hatched
“second clutch” young; being the first breeding occurrence at this location for many years. In

5

VC62, three pairs bred at Brandsby Ponds; three at Wykeham Lakes with two at Brampton
Pond and one at Margrave Pond. Precise details were not received from VC63, where a total
of 75 pairs were considered as breeding, with a similar situation in VC64 where in excess of
25 pairs were known to have bred though not all were successful. In VC65 breeding occurred
at Bolton-on-Swale; Scorton Quarry; Pallet Hill; Nosterfield GP and Kirby Fleetham.

Maxima reported outwith the breeding season were 49 along the LDNNR on 6th January with
37 there on the 14th December. Also in VC61, 13 were at Pulfin Bog during mid-November
with a similar count along Keyingham Drain on the 26th December. In VC62, up to 16 were
reported from Scaling Dam during September whilst, in VC63, 23 were at Ten Acre Pond
[Hatfield], during August. 1 5 at Farnham GP during September was the highest count reported
from VC64 with the same number at Nosterfield GP, VC65 on 15th August.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus
Resident breeder; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Breeding occurred in VC61 at East Park [Hull] where three broods were seen; Welton Water
with one pair at least; Pulfin Bog, one pair; Saltmarshe Delph where four adults and three
juveniles were reported and at Newport Ponds with one adult and two juveniles present in June.
At the LDNNR an increase to eight pairs was reported with some 20 young being noted. Two
pairs with one young each were present at Hornsea Mere; two pairs bred at Brandesburton/
Burshill Ponds though no young fledged whilst at TLNR one pair bred but again no young
fledged. In VC62, breeding was reported from Wykeham Lakes [three pairs]; Seamer Road
Mere [three pairs]; Burton Riggs GP [two pairs]; Wiganthorpe |two pairs] ; Yearsley [one pair]
and Rawcliffe Lake [one pair]. Breeding numbers reported from VC63 were a little sketchy
though it is considered that some 40 pairs reared about 55 young whilst, in VC64, it was
reported as a poor season, particularly in the Leeds area, where only four pairs reared young,
mainly due to falling water levels. No details were received from other locations in this VC.
Breeding occurred in VC65 at Catterick; Scorton Quarry; Cleasby GP: Nosterfield GP and
Pallet Hill.

During the non-breeding season, 24 were reported from Filey Bay on 2nd March; 45 at Eccup
Res. on 2nd September; 67 at Wintersett Res. on 3rd February with 97 there on the 24th
November [this a Barnsley area record count]. 54 were also at nearby Pugney’s CP on 15th
April; 30+ at Skelton Lake during September with 28 at Bolton-on-Swale on the 5th April. No
counts were received from the traditional wintering area of Bridlington Bay.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena

Passage migrant and winter visitor.

A good first half of the year with birds reported from many locations. Along the coast. Spurn
recorded single birds on 11th and 20th February; 16th March and the 8th April. Flamborough
reported singles on four days during January; one on the 4th February then three on the 22nd,
two the following day and one on the 24th. Five were recorded there on the 3rd March with
one on 2nd April. Filey reported one or two between the 21st and 31st January with three on
the 30th. Single birds were recorded there on a further five days until the 12th April. One was
off Bridlington on 3 1st January whilst one or two were present at Scarborough from 6th
January to 30th March. Further north, one was in Robin Hood's Bay on 19th March; One at
Whitby on both 30th January and 5th March with, finally, one present at South Gare between
31st January and 31st March.

Birds were quite widespread inland during this early part of the year, with the first being seen
at Brough on 26th January then one at Pugney’s CP on the 29th, remaining until 3rd February.
During February, one on the River Ouse at Poppleton on the 1st then singles on the 2nd at
Welton Water [remaining until the 6th]; Wentworth Lakes [remaining until the 29th]; on the 3rd
at Roundhay Park, Leeds [remaining until the 7th]; Chelker Res [until 10th] and TLNR. On the
4th one was at Swillington Ings with another at Nosterfield GP. The next to be reported was on
the 8th at Tynham Hall CP which remained until 5th April. No new arrivals were reported until
the 14th when one appeared at Bellflask Quarry where it remaining until the 28th then, on the
17th, one at Harthill Res. staying until the 27th with one at Denaby Ings which remained until

6

the 27th April. One present at Worsbrough Res. on the 20th, one at Sprotbrough Flash on the
21st/22nd with another at Pugney's CP on the 23rd which was still present on 10th March. On
the 25th single birds appeared at Hornsea Mere and Bubwith, this latter remaining into March.
One at Scalby Beck from the 26th to 12th March; one at Scaling Dam from the 27th to the 11th
March with another along the LDNNR. at Thorganby. which was present from 28th into March.
The only report received of two together was from High Batts NR on the 19th February.
Fewer records during the latter part of the year and all from the coast. Spurn had single birds
on the 28th and 31st August; 1 4th September and 16th November. At Flamborough, one was
present on 28th July then on 3rd, 4th and 1 2th August with singles reported on five days during
September but two on the 22nd and three on the 1 8th. One on the 1 3th October; 1 8th, 24th and
25th November whilst one or two were reported between the 24th and 27th December. Four
single birds were recorded at Filey during the autumn [no further details received] whilst there
were records of a single in Scarborough Harbour on two dates in autumn [again no other
details],

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus

Winter visitor and passage migrant, more frequent in autumn.

As with Red-necked Grebe, an influx occurred in the early months, resulting in more records
than usual, with most coming from the south and east of the county. During January singles
were recorded at TLNR on the 1st; Scaling Dam, 4th; Filey, 10th; Coatham Marsh from the
10th to 1 2th; Middlesborough. 11th to 21st; Coatham Marsh again from the 28th to 3rd
February and Wintersett Res. from 28th to 2nd February. February saw up to two at
Scarborough from the 8th until 13th March; two at Elland GP on the 2nd/3rd; then singles at
Angler’s CP from the 2nd through to the 2nd April, by which time the bird had acquired
breeding plumage; Hornsea Mere on the 2nd; 5th and 15th; Flamborough on the 3rd; Roundhay
Park [Leeds], from the 3rd to 7th; Chelker Res. from the 3rd to 10th; Swillington Ings on 4th;
Nosterfield GP also the 4th; Otley GP from the 4th to 30th March; Peasholme Park
[Scarborough], on 1 1th; Bellflask Quarry from the 14th to 28th; Elvington on 14th; Methley
GP on the 1 8th with what may have been the same bird then at Fairburn Ings from the 1 8th to
26th. One at Famham GP on die 20th; at Filey on the 20th and 22nd; Burton Riggs GP on the
21st; Southfield Res. on 23rd; Roundhay Park on 24dt with one at BLNR the same day. A
different individual was present at Southfield Res. from the 25th February to 27th March; one
at Sutton-on-Derwent on the 25th and at Welbeck [near Normanton] also on the 25th. Less
were reported during March with singles at Filey from the 3rd to 1 1th; South Gare on the 10th
when one was near Hempholme and, what may have been the same individual, nearby from the
17th to the 24th; at Scaling Dam from the 16th to 24th; another [third individual] at Southfield
Res. from the 30th to 3rd April whilst two were at Burton Riggs GP on the 24th remaining there
until 16th April.

Very few reported during the latter months with singles at Fairburn Ings on 21st August;
Flamborough on 30th August; Hay-a-Park GP from the 14th September to 1st October and
Southfield Res. from the 24th October to 9th November.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricoilis

Scarce but regular breeder, in recent years; passage migrant and winter visitor.

The first breeding birds returned to the LDNNR on the 4th April with numbers increasing to
eight pairs by the end of the month. A complete survey conducted during the summer revealed
a record 1 5 pairs had bred producing 34 young.

Away from the breeding area single birds were recorded in VC61 at Brandesburton from the
8th to 14th January; at Welton Water on 14th February; at Burstwick from the 17th to 23rd
February whilst one, in breeding plumage, was present at TLNR on the 29th/30th May with a
long staying individual there [moultingl from 15th July to 27th August. Only one bird was
reported from VC62, at Jackson’s Bay on 2nd February. Reported from six locations in VC63
with two at Wintersett Res. on 5th April and one there on 22nd June; two at Southfield Res.
from the 3rd to 6th April with singles there on the 10th April [different bird]; 16th and 30th
July. Singles at Potteric Carr from 6th to 21st May; at Pugney’s CP on the 19th/20th;

7

Blackmoorfoot Res. on the 21st. In June, singles were at Pugney’s CP on the 12th and at
Broomhill Flash on the 13th with two at the latter location on the 1 7th/l 8th. In VC64, singles
were at Skelton Lake on 24th February and at Fairburn Ings on the 23rd/24th April with two at
the latter location on the 27th. One at Staveley NR from the 20th to 27th May whilst New
Swillington Ings had one on 18th June; two on the 24th then one again on 1st July. The only
record from VC65 was of one at Cleasby GP on the 6th June.

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis

Common breeder; abundant off-shore being less frequent in winter; occasional inland.
Widespread, breeding from Flamborough Head northwards though the only count received was
of some 290 pairs between Cowbar and Saltburn. Large numbers were frequently reported
from all coastal watch-points with the highest daily totals reported, as usual, from
Flamborough Head where 4260 passed on the 16th February with 4000 the following day and
5865 on 2nd March. Thereafter small numbers until early May when 3000 were counted on the
3rd then 4273 on the 4th. The next counts of note were 3840 on 24th July and 3950 on 29th
August. Counts were small, thereafter, until mid-November when 6435 passed, in association
with strong northerly winds, on the 18th and 5375 similarly on the 30th. 1000 on 28th
December being the only count of note during that months. A similar situation was reported
from Filey though totals were lower, however, up to 500 an hour were occasionally noted here
in January contrasting with the small counts off Flamborough [no more than 45 in any one
day]. Few counts were received from north of Filey with 1026 flying north, in four hours, off
Scarborough on 29th August as the only substantial number reported. Few counts were also
reported from south of Flamborough with only Spurn recording any numbers though these
were far lower than locations further north. Maxima here were 180 on 27th May; 134 on 22nd
June; up to 200 occasionally during August with 216 on the 29th then the highest count of the
year of 280 on 1 3th September. Usually Spurn records few birds after October but this year
unprecedented numbers occurred in December with 41 on the 19th; 28 on the 20th and 64 on
the 31st. No records were received from the Humber although one was reported from the Ouse
at Blacktoft Sands on 4th September.

Inland, there were up to eight at Roseberry Topping between February and July with singles at
Wykeham/Troutsdale on 28th June and Norton [Tees-side] on the 6th September. In VC63, two
were at Southfield Res. on the 8th March one of which was last seen on the 11th being found
dead there on the 18th. One at Fairburn Ings, VC64, on the 27th May.

Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea

Annual summer/autumnal vagrant from Mediterranean/North Atlantic.

Considered to have been "a below average year" at Flamborough where all records fell during
the month of August with singles on the 10th; 11th; 12th and 28th whilst two were seen on the
31st. Filey reported single birds on four days, again all in August, on the 6th; 8th; 11th and
12th. Finally one was seen off Long Nab on 1st September.

Great Shearwater Puffinus gravis
Annual vagrant from South Atlantic.

Only one record, a single bird off Flamborough on 1 5th August (PAL)

Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus

Quite common summer/autumnal passage migrant; rare in spring/winter.

An unseasonal record concerned one off Staithes on the 13th February. The first of the year,
otherwise, was at Spurn on 6th July after which there were singles on the 24th and 26th August
then seven on the 29th and 20 on the 30th. The main passage occurred in September with
records on most days between the 6th and the 20th, mainly concerning low numbers but 95
were reported on the 9th; 14 on 10th; 151 on 12th and 214 on the 13th. 34 passed on 5th
October and, finally, four on the 12th November. Further north, off Grimston, 40 passed north
on 9th September with 26 on the 1 3th.

Flamborough reported a better than average year although large counts were only recorded

8

during a short period in September. The first of the year at this location was on 14th July with
a further 13 birds during the remainder of the month. August saw 282 birds with peak counts
of 26 on 14th; 50 on 29th; 111 on the 30th and 44 on 31st. 1714 were recorded in September,
almost all in the first half of the month, when peaks were 201 on the 9th; 301 on 1 1th and 762
on the 13th w'hilst only 23 birds were reported after the 1 5th. Few were seen in October with
37 noted on the 5th and 65 the following day being the bulk of the monthly total of 129 birds.
Three passed on 10th November. Filey reported birds between 7th August and 5th October with
a similar peak in September when 93 and 206 Hew north on the 1 2th and 13th respectively. This
passage was noted further north with 63 north at Scarborough on the 9th and 29 there on the
10th whilst 24 were seen off Whitby on the 11th and 226 at Long Nab on the 13th.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus

Common coastal passage migrant mainly in summer/autumn; scarcer in spring.

The first of the year was off Spurn on 29th March thereafter only small numbers until the latter
part of May when 82 passed Flamborough on the 25th whilst Spurn had 21 on the 24th; 31 on
the 27th and 35 on the 28th. June saw a slow increase with peak counts, at Flamborough, of
223 on the 15th and 420 on the 22nd; 126 to the north off Grimston on the 19th though, at
Spurn, numbers were low with a peak of only 44 on the 22nd. 155 passed Spurn on 3rd July
with 102 north at Grimston on the 16th. Maxima at Flamborough during this month were 227
on the 5th; 285 on the 7th and 221 on the 16th when 129 passed Whitby. August saw 198 at
Flamborough on the 14th; 190 on the 30th with 150 the following day whilst Filey also
reported good numbers having 152 and 262 south, respectively, on the 6th and 7th. Spurn
reported 107 on 4th and 105 on the 24th. Recorded regularly at Flamborough during the first
two weeks of September with maxima of 185 on the I Ith and 348 on the 13th. On this latter
date 49 were reported from Spurn; 138 north off Filey and 184 north at Long Nab. 60 were seen
off Staithes on the 10th. Very few were reported anywhere along the coast after 15th
September; 14 at Flamborough on 6th October being the only double-figure count with the last
birds being one at Filey on 21st November and two off Flamborough on the 26th.

Mediterranean Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan
Scarce coastal migrant, mainly in late summer/autumn.

The bulk of the records, attributed to the race P.y. mauretanicus. came from Flamborough
where a total of 45 were reported. A single on the 23rd June was the first, then, in July, birds
were reported on the 5th; 26th; 28th and 29th. At Hornsea, one flew north on 12th July then
four on the 13th. Many of the birds reported occurred during August with 16 off Flamborough;
five off Filey and two off Whitby. Individual counts at Flamborough were not specified though
six were recorded on the 28th whilst, at Filey, singles were seen on the 14th; 16th and 29th with
two south there on the 24th. September saw the peak movement off Flamborough with 18
sightings including three on the 7th and seven on the 1 1th. None during this month at Filey but
further north, at Long Nab, singles were recorded on the 1st; 12th and 13lh. One passed north
off Grimston on the 9th. Only Flamborough reported birds during October with singles on the
1st and 30th then, in November, on the 10th and 26th.

A bird seen off Flamborough on 31st August, was, on plumage characteristics, considered to
belong to the’Cenlral and Eastern Mediterranean race P.y. yelkouan. [DB: BH: PAL: MN: BR
et al ].

British Storm-Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus

Rare migrant and non-breeding visitor to the coast; attracted to tape lures. Very occasionally
inland.

The only sight records were from Spurn, where one was reported on 16th July, and
Flamborough with singles on 22nd June; 28th July; 13th September and 13th November.
Tape-luring at both Filey and Flamborough was again carried out this year though results at
both locations were disappointing owing to adverse weather conditions [strong easterly winds]
during the optimum trapping month of July. Thus, Flamborough only caught two birds,
although others were seen, whilst Filey caught 32 on five nights with 14 on the 14th. Of the
birds caught at Filey one had previously been ringed in Norway [no further details available].

9

Leach’s Storm-Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa

Very rare migrant to the coast , usually during late autumn. Very occasionally inland.
Recorded on four occasions. Two were seen off Long Nab on 31st August with two off
Flamborough on 9th September; one off Staithes the following day and one off Flamborough
on the 13th.

Gannet Morns bassanus

Increasing breeder at one location; abundant off-shore during spring, summer and autumn.
No counts of the colony at the Bempton RSPB Reserve were carried out this year, however it
was considered that at least 2000 pairs were present, increasing from the 1715 last year. Of
note, also, was the occasional interest shown by birds in the cliffs just to the north of Filey.
Large numbers were reported from all coastal watch-points with, obviously, the largest totals
being recorded at Flamborough and Filey. Although the latter location did not list totals, the
former had many days when 2000+ birds passed; the largest numbers being in September with
peaks of 7390 on the 10th; 6480 on 12th and 4377 on the 14th. Numbers were lower, less than
360, during the months of January; November and December. Elsewhere, peak counts were
3348 north off Scarborough on 9th September; 1200 at Cowbar on the 10th and 2459 at Long
Nab on the 13th. Numbers reported from Spurn showed a similar pattern, albeit with far smaller
totals than Flamborough; here the peak count was 740 on 27th May [a record count for spring
at that location] with 640 on the 28th. Maxima in autumn were 255 on 14th September with
240 on the 5th October and 243 the following day. 90 were reported from the Humber near
Sunk Island on 20th September whilst the only inland record this year was of a single bird at
Blacktoft Sands on 12th October.

Cormorant Phtdacrocorax carbo

Coastal breeder in small numbers; recently bred inland; common winter visitor and migrant.

Up to five pairs were considered to have bred adjacent to the LDNNR. Along the coast,
between Staithes and Saltburn, 26 pairs bred on Boulby Cliff with 45 pairs on Hunt Cliff whilst
22 pairs bred on Filey North Cliffs.

Monthly maxima at the mouth of the Tees varied between 23 in January and 47 1 in August
whilst up to 201 were present in July and 282 in September. Only small numbers were reported
from Scarborough and Filey though Flamborough had a maximum during the first half of the
year of 52 on 23rd June. Numbers there then increased with 75 on 18th August followed by 81
on the 26th. In September, 124 were reported on the 1st with 113 on the 15th after which
numbers declined though the October peak was 72 on the 12th. Small numbers then in
November and December with peak counts of between 20 and 25. Numbers along the
Holderness coast were generally low with peaks at Spurn of 85 on 1 st February and 33 on 16th
August.

Numbers inland, in VC61, continue to increase though, yet again, no counts were received
from Hornsea Mere. TLNR had very large numbers in September with a record count of 122
on the 20th and then 73 on the 23rd [72 in 1994 being the previous highest]. Further inland, in
VC63, individuals were reported from some 70 locations, the peak counts being: Pugney’s CP,,
61 on 31st January; 72 on 18th February [location record]; up to 62 regularly during March
then 42 on 1st April. During the latter months, 54 were present on 27th November and 40 on
the 1st December. Nearby Wintersett Res. had 36 on 31st January, 63 on 3rd February and 40
on 2nd April. 32 flew south-west over this location on 27th November. In the Doncaster area
maxima reported were 35 at Potteric Carr in November; 38 in February with 31 in December
at Southfield Res. whilst 36 were at Thorpe Marsh in October.

VC64 also saw a further increase in numbers although Swillington Ings, due to pumping
operations to dredge the mine and recommence coal extraction, had a fall in numbers with
maxima of 69 in January then 71 on 3rd February. Maxima elsewhere were 21 at Eccup Res.
on 14th September and 14 at Staveley NR on 28th September. Maxima in VC65 were 48 at
Bolton-on-Swale on 18th February with 38 on the 10th October; 43 on 30th November and 48
on 26th December. 24 were at Thornton Steward Res. on 2nd March

‘White-headed’ birds possibly of the Continental race P.c. sinensis were recorded from many

10

locations, usually one to five birds but seven were at Flamborough on 6th April then 12 on the
7th and six on the 16th.

Colour-ringed birds from the tree-nesting colonies at Abberton [Essex] were reported from
TLNR; LDNNR and Denaby Ings [this last also being seen the following day at Potteric Carr]
whilst individuals from Besthorpe [Notts] were reported from Potteric Carr; Sprotbrough Flash
and TLNR.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis

Coastal breeder in small numbers; passage migrant and winter visitor.

No details were received of breeding. The numbers present at the winter roosts at Flamborough
remain at a relatively low level compared to the peak counts of 1990. Monthly maxima this
year were 235 in January; 199 in February; 251 in November and 205 in December. South of
Flamborough the largest number reported was 15 seen passing to the south off Spurn on 3rd
February. North of Flamborough, up to 29 were present at Filey during February with the
highest count of the year being 55 on 13th November. Counts from VC62 received were 50 at
Saltburn on 31st January; 26 south at Staithes on 7th February and 41 on the sea off
Scarborough on 3rd March.

The only inland records from VC61 comprised of singles at Elvington on 14th February and at
Sutton-on-Derwent on the 25th. In VC63, one to four were seen on eight days between the 3rd
and 23rd February at Pugney’s CP. One at Thrybergh CP on 4th January with one at Damflask
Res. from 14th February to 14th March. One seen flying to the east at Southfield Res. on 14th
April then one at RVCP on 16th May with one at Broomhead Res. on the 21st. One flying
south-west over Blackburn Meadows on 4th August whilst two were at Elland GP on the 3rd
September with one there on the 29th. One at Thornton Moor Res. on 29th September then one
at Underbank Res. on 1st October. The bird which had roosted near the interchange at
Meadowhall since March 1994 was last seen there on the 9th March.

One circled Staveley NR [VC64], on 14th January. On the 29th at least 50 were on the small
lake at Roundhay Park [Leeds], with 30+ seen the following and five on the 2nd February. By
the 13th the iced-over lake began to thaw and two dead birds were found. During the next week
a total of 64 bodies were found including eight with rings most of which had originated on the
Isle of May [Fife]. The survivors of this freeze-up moved to the large lake remaining until the
7th. Birds were seen elsewhere during this period with four on the R. Aire near Skelton Power
Station on 5th February and singles at Lindley Wood Res, from 31st January to 2nd February;
at Fairburn lngs on 14th February with one on the river at Leeds Bridge on the 24th. Two were
at Otley GP from 4th to 7th February. One flew along the R. Wharfe at Barden on 13th October.

Bittern Botaurus stellaris

Annual but uncommon winter visitor.

Most of the records occurred during the early months. Two birds remained at Potteric Carr from
1995 until 24th March; one was at Thorpe Marsh on 3rd March; one occasionally at Wintersett
Res. during January with two on the 30th when two further birds were reported from separate
reed-beds then one there regularly throughout February. One was reported on 13 days at
Blacktoft Sands between 4th January and 11th April. In VC61, at the LDNNR, one
occasionally reported during January with a second bird seen on the 20th and 28th along the
Pocklington Canal at Melbourne. During the first week of February five birds were reported at
Wheldrake Ings including three near the Swantail Hide on the 5th, thereafter singles were
recorded until April with one booming on 19th March. One was reported from a garden in
Acaster Malbis [VC62], "at the end of the winter" during a snowy spell (York Om. Report).
One at Oak Hill Pond, near Goole | VC63], on 15th February whilst one was at Harewood Lake
[VC64], on 2nd February.

During the latter months one was reported from Blacktoft Sands on the 17th and 27th August
whilst one returned to Wintersett Res. on the 17th November being recorded fairly regularly
until the end of the year. Another was at Blacktoft Sands on 22nd October with, possibly, a third
bird there from the 27th to 29th December. One at Potteric Carr on 24th November was
considered to be the bird recorded on both 22nd and 30th December. Singles were seen at

11

Wheldrake Ings on 20th September and again on the 24th whilst one to three were seen
occasionally there during October and November. One at TLNR on 4th November was
possibly the bird seen there on the 10th whilst another individual was present on 17th
December. One at Marfield NR [Masham], occasionally from 13th October to the end of the
year whilst one was at Carthorpe Mires [VC65], on 24th December.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Rare vagrant from the Continent.

A first-year bird was in East Park [Hull], on 27th March (BR et a!). One, unaged, seen at dusk
on Thorne Moors on 4th June (NCD: DJP: AZ) A juvenile in Locke Park [Redcar], on 25th
September (EGC: JBD: TF) whilst a similarly aged bird was at Spurn from 14th to 16th
October (AB: MC: RP et al ). (The Thome bird is still awaiting acceptance by BBRC ]

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ihis

Very rare vagrant from the Continent. [5 records to 1992]

One, in the Thorne area from 1 1 th October to 30th December although not reported every day.
(BPW: LJD: PKG: DP et al) [What was possibly the same bird was reported from Derbyshire
between 19th and 21st December].

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

Annual vagrant, increasing in numbers.

One at BLNR on 27th April was seen to fly south and later reported from Spurn. One south at
Spurn on 24th May. One was reported at Head Farm Pond [Flamborough], on 1st June and may
have been seen later that day at Spurn in company with a second bird These two birds
reappeared again that day at Sammy's Point [Kilnsea], before being seen near BLNR.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Resident breeder and winter visitor/passage migrant.

Not all heronries were counted or commented upon. In VC61. 22 pairs were present at Mattie
Brown Wood near Wheldrake whilst a further six pairs were found nearby along the canal. No
changes in status were reported for the other two heronries in this VC, the R. Hull near Driffield
and at Scampston. In VC62, 21 nests were occupied at Ellerbum with up to eight at Spiker Hill
[Mowthorpe], An established, but not previously reported, heronry at Thornton-le-Street held
six to eight nests. Two pairs attempted to breed at Castle Howard, one failed but the other held
chicks on 12th May though the final outcome is unknown. No comments were received from
Crathome. The reported heronries in VC63 were; Bretton Park, 20 nests but no further details;
Wentworth, nine nests with 1 2 young; Worsbrough, two nests no further details; Cawthome,
two pairs "some” young; Storthes Hall, one pair with three young. Single pairs nested at Agden
Res. and Rivelin Res. with three young at the latter site. Only two locations were reported from
VC64; Dob Park where 15 nests produced 28 young and Pond House [Askwith], with 38 to 40
nests and 89 young. 12 pairs bred at Kirby Fleelham [VC65], however no report of success was
received.

Maxima recorded were invariably near the breeding locations; 51 were at Wheldrake on 15th
July with 41 along the LDNNR on 15th August and 20 at Lindley Wood Res. on 2nd August

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

Vagrant from the Continent; almost annual in recent years.

An adult was present at Pulfin Bog on 30th March [DGH]

Black Stork Ciconia nigra

Very rare vagrant front the Continent; six records, four this century.

One flew inland over Coatham Marsh on April 18th (JCr)

12

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

Vagrant from the Continent; almost annual in recent years.

One, seen flying to the north-west over Spurn on 15th April roosted near Easington being
reported passing south over Spurn the following morning. One, south, at Flamborough on 29th
May was the first record of this species for that location.

One was seen flying south over Skinningrove and Boulby on 14th April being considered to be
an escaped bird which was reported along this coast during the month.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Very rare vagrant from the Continent; only six since 1912.

One, present at Head Farm Pond [Flamborough], on the morning of 23rd May was seen to
depart to the south (AMA). [This record has yet to be submitted to the BBRC but see photo in
the Flamborough Bird Report], What was obviously this bird was seen flying south at Spurn
that same day (JC: DRM: MF & MRS)

Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia

Very scarce passage migrant.

One seen at Flamborough on 20th April was the first of many this year. One at Eccup Res. on
the 21st may possibly have been the individual seen flying over Famham GP on the 28th. On
this last date one flew into Filey Dams roosting there but not seen the following morning; [this
bird had been colour-ringed as a first-year individual in Holland in 1994J. One which flew
south over Whitby that day may have been this same bird. On the 29th one flew west over
Southfield Res. being, undoubtedly, the bird seen flying west also over Fairbum Ings that same
day. In May, one was at Pulfin Bog on the 1 st whilst on the 5th, four flew south at Flamborough
then, on the I Ith, one at Blacktoft Sands with one at Coatham Marsh and at Filey on the 15th.
[same?]. Four were recorded at Filey on the 20th on which date four were also seen at Spurn
finally flying off north-westerly along the Humber. One at Coatham Marsh on the 25th
remained in that area until the 5th June; one again at Filey on the 30th with one also at
Blacktoft Sands that day, remaining until 16th June being joined by a second individual on four
other days. One at Pugney's CP on the 31st. Two were seen to come in off the sea at
Flamborough on 4th June whilst on the 13th, four flew south off Hornsea; four appeared al
Blacktoft Sands on the 17th staying there until the 25th on which date four were seen flying
west over Fairbum Ings. Two north-west over Thrybergh CP on the 17th whilst one flew south
along the River Derwent on the 25th. Five stayed briefly at Wheldrake Ings on 7th July with
one there on 3rd August. The only other records in this month came from Blacktoft Sands with
one from 1 1th to 17th; two on the 20th then one again from the 21st to 24th. Exactly how many
individuals were involved in the period between late April and late June is difficult to assess
though the parties of four would, no doubt, refer to the same birds.

Mute Swan Cygnus olor

Increasing breeding resident and winter visitor.

Bred, in VC61, at Hornsea Mere [two pairs - no details]; Haverfield Ponds [one pair - six
young]; Pulfin Bog [one pair - four young]; TLNR [four pairs - 13 young]; LDNNR [up to 24
pairs present - 13 incubated eggs but no further details]. Still considered to be under-reported
in this VC. In VC62, four pairs bred in the south rearing 13 young whilst in the Whitby area
two pairs raised nine. Around the York area bred at Rawcliffe Lake; Easingwold; Newburgh;
Bottom Lake; Yearsley; Pond Head; Brandsby and Stearsby though in almost all cases there
were no further details. A total of 25 pairs bred in VC63 raising 58 young [excluding the
Sheffield area where 13 pairs attempted with nine being successful though no distinction was
made between Yorkshire and Derbyshire]. At least 23 pairs bred in VC64 with varying success
but still considered to be increasing in the Leeds area. Single pairs bred in VC65 at Bolton-on-
Swale; Scorton Quarry; Masham; Wensley; Leeming Bar and Jervaulx.

Maximum count reported was c.350 at Hornsea Mere in August though no counts were
received from the other main moulting location, Fairburn Ings. The only other large counts
were 1 00 near TLNR on 2nd May [an exceptional count] ; 94 along the LDNNR on 3 1 st March

13

with 102 there on the 26th December; up to 90 were at Methley CP in April; 76 at Pugney’s
CP on 3rd January whilst up to 65 were in the RVCP during January and March. Several colour-
ringed birds from the LDNNR were reported at Southfield Res. during the year.

Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus

Passage migrant and winter visitor; numbers have decreased in recent years.

30 were present along the LDNNR by the end of January increasing to 61 LI 1 immatures] by
19th February; 16 in early March with 29 arriving on the 20th and the last being reported on
7th April at North Duffield. 16 flying south at Wheldrake Ings on 31st October were the first
to return thereafter up to ten were present during November. 35 arrived on 24th December after
which numbers increased to 118 on the 27th with 70 present on the 31st. Colour-ringed birds
were present on 8th February and 27th December whilst one, with a neck-collar, was seen on
24th December [no details yet received on these birds]. Elsewhere, in VC6 1 , ten were seen near
North Cave on 18th February; 1 5 on the Humber at Broomfleet on 27th February and 12 north
at Spurn on 31st October with 13 at Sunk Island on 16th November. One to seven occasionally
at five other locations in this VC.

Only two records from VC62; one over Jackson's Bay [Scarborough], on 17th January and one,
exhausted, on the beach at Robin Hood’s Bay in December, later dying. At the main wintering
area in VC63, the Idle Valley, peak counts reported were 35 on 13th January; 51 [including five
juveniles] on 24th then, in February, 62 on the 3rd; 65 [including three juveniles] on the 14th
and 48 on both the 17th and 28th. Eight were present in this area on 25th November with 32
on 22nd December whilst 87 flew out of the valley on the 31st, including one carrying a neck-
collar. Elsewhere, in VC63, one to nine were reported from several location during both winter
period with ten at Southfield Res. on 16th January; 20 to the east over Sprotbrough Flash on
31st December, One at Broomhill Ings on 1st December was wearing a blue neck-collar as was
one of five birds there on the 31st. [no details received concerning birds with neck-collars].
Further north, few were recorded with five or six in the Thomborough/Nosterfield area
between 2nd January and 3rd February whilst 1 1 were at Aldborough [near Boroughbridge] on
7th January and at Bellflask Quarry on the 9th. Four at Staveley NR on 26th October.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus

Passage migrant and winter visitor in increasing numbers particularly in eastern areas.
Only the LDNNR, in the east of the county, recorded birds regularly, having maxima of 42 on
20th January and 27 on 25th February. A high turn-over of individuals there during March with
a peak of 75 on the 28th. An injured bird remained through the summer being joined by a
second bird in October. Up to 16 were present during November, including three colour-ringed
birds [no further details] thereafter numbers increased through December peaking with 96 on
the 26th with another colour-ringed bird being present during most of that month. Elsewhere
numbers were small and infrequent in VC6I. generally less than ten and usually for one day
only. Larger parties reported were 18 flying west at Spurn on 1st January; 19 at Sunk Island on
the 28th February with 1 5 on the Humber, at Spurn, on the 28th March and 1 6 to the south there
on 1st November. Seven which wintered at Skipsea were present from 1 8th October to the
years' end occasionally being reported from Ulrome. Barmston and Skirlington. Very scarce in
VC62 with eight at Scaling Dam from 15th January to 28th March. One found dead near
Sandsend on 20th November had been ringed at Lake Myvatn [IcelandJ on 18th August 1992.
20 at Edderthorpe [VC63], on 1 st January whilst a colour-ringed bird [Caerlaverock 1 990] was
present at that location on 2nd April. 12 were also here on 5th December, including six
juveniles, three of which had been ringed at Lake Myvatn on 3rd August. Quite widely
distributed in the Doncaster and Barnsley areas, usually one to nine being involved, though 20
[the Edderthorpe birds?] at Broomhill Ings between 26th and 28th January; 49 flew south-east
over Thrybergh CP on 25th February; 1 5 at Howden Res. on the 3rd April with 1 8 flying north
over Thome Ashfields on the 13th. One to nine were recorded at some 12 locations during the
latter months after the first returning birds at Broomhill Ings on 4th October. 1 1 were present
there from the 13th to 16th November then 12 from the 14th to 17th December and again from
21st to 26th increasing to 18 on the 27th with 12 again on the 28th remaining into 1997. 25

14

flew south-west over Scawthorpe on 31st December. Quite widely distributed in VC64 during
both winter periods though no sizeable parties were reported, invariably less than five at all
locations, with the exceptions of 38 at Mickletown Ings on 25th January; up to 16 in the
Swillington area on 29th February; 23 at Gouthwaite Res. on 3rd April and 44 at Birkin on the
23rd November; |no records were received from Fairburn Ings RSPB Reserve which normally
holds a wintering flock]. Further north, in VC65, up to 29 were in the Bolton-on-Swale/Great
Langton area throughout January with up to 17 at Nosterfield GP during November whilst 18
were on flood water near Hardraw [Wensleydale] on 7th November.

The pinioned bird was present at Hornsea Mere throughout the year whilst the “tame” bird,
reared at Studley Park in 1992, was present in Cleveland occasionally visiting the Yorkshire
side of the Tees.

Bean Goose Anserfabilis

Scarce winter visitor.

One at TLNR from 1995 was joined by a second bird on 1st January until the 3rd with one
staying until the 7th. An influx occurred in January, associated with the severe weather, of
birds, where racially identified, belonging to the race A. f. rossicus, unless otherwise stated.
Along the coast, one at Cloughton on 16th January then three or four at Scalby from the 19th
remaining there until the 7th February. Four at Flamborough on ihe 20th January on which
date, one flew up the Humber, at Spurn, most likely being the individual reported that same day
at Sunk Island. The party at Flamborough had increased to six on the 21st and seven the
following day thereafter up to seven were present until the 29th. 20 were seen at Scalby on the
25th whilst up to five were in the Scaling Dam area from the 23rd to 8th February. Few along
the coast in February with five at Flamborough on the 25th on which date one flew south at
Cromer Point [in company with eight Pink-footed Geese and 14 White-fronted Geese] and two
flew south at Spurn. Seven were near Hornsea Mere on the 2nd. Further inland, five were at
Hempholme from the 1 1th to 25th February with two at TLNR on the 29th then four on 6th
March whilst, at the LDNNR, seven were reported from Wheldrake Ings during January
increasing in February to 36 on the 12th peaking at 65 on 4th March |a record count for
Yorkshire]. Four at Pulfin Bog on 28th April. In VC63, two were at Blacktoft Sands on 25th
January; six at Newington on 4th February with one at Broomhill Flash from the 29th until the
21st April. One at Blacktoft Sands on 23rd March. Only one reported from VC64; a single at
Staveley NR on 1st February whilst, in VC65, seven at Scorton Quarry on 1 0th February had
increased to ten on the 1 8th.

During the latter months two were at the LDNNR on 15th November with 18 there on 18th
December whilst three remained at Filey Dams from the 26th December until the end of the
year. A single bird was at Elland GP on the 7th December with five in the Scammonden valley
on the 30th.

19, of the race A.f. fabalis, were present at the LDNNR on 24th March with four remaining
until the 26th. One of this race at TLNR on 27th December.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus

Winter visitor, formerly abundant; passage migrant, common at times.

The only record received from the HWR was of 270 on 5th October. Along the lower reaches
of the Humber, 75 were at Sunk Island on 20th January with 276 south there on 26th October
and 89 present on 8th December. At Spurn, small numbers during the early months then, in
October, 370 were reported on the 26th with 120 on the 27th; 122 on 1st November and 100
on 9th December. Further north, along the coast, 70 flew south at Scalby on 20th January with
70 south there on 25th February; 80 south at Filey on 1 8th March and 80 seen at Grimston on
20th March. During the latter months, 195 flew south over Filey on 27th October with 140 also
south there on 7th November.

Movements over VCs 63 and 64. between the main wintering areas of south-west Lancashire
and north Norfolk, were noted regularly during both winter periods with many skeins/daily
totals of 150+ reported. On 7th January, 200 were seen over Gouthwaite Res. then, on the 9th.
300 flew east over Worsbrough and 230 east over Rotherham whilst, on the 10th, 260 passed

15

south-east over Carlton Marsh. 285 to the east over the Idle valley on the 13th when 176 passed
east over Broomhill Ings. On the 15th a total of 2000, in nine skeins, flew north-westwards
over Sheffield and may have included birds seen flying south-west over the Rivelin valley; 300
north-west over Broomhill; 300 north-west over Wharncliffe Heath and 650 west [in three
skeins] over the RVCP which were also seen over Atterclil'fe. In February; 150 flew north over
Blacktoft Sands on the 3rd with 260 over Famham GP the following day. Between the 4th and
8th a total of 1 1 00 were observed flying north-west over Sheffield whilst on die 7th 150 passed
to the west over Huddersfield. On the 1 9th, 200 west over Barnsley with, on the 23rd, 200 over
Famham GP; 250 north-west over Southfield Res. and 480 north-west over Thome Moors then
on the 27th, 300 north at Edderthorpe with 374 north-west over Carlton Marsh and 240 north-
west, on the 28th, over Holme Moss. 202 were in flooded fields at Almholme Marsh from the
15th to 19th. The only significant number reported in March was 350 north-west over Thome
Moors on the 31st. In VC61, up to seven were present at the LDNNR during January increasing
to 72 on 28th February with 590 repotted there on 27th March thereafter decreasing quickly
during April and May with one individual summering.

The first of the autumn were 25 over Blacktoft Sands on 16th September then, as during the
early months, skeins were frequently seen passing over VCs 63 and 64. On 6th October 1 80
flew southsouth-east over Thrybergh with 160 south-east over Redmires on the 10th then, on
the 14th, 200 east at Totley with 160 north-north-east at Bessacarr and 600 south-east the
following day at Hunshelf. 210 north-east at South Anston on the 22nd with 270 south-east at
Edderthorpe on the 26th when 150 flew east at West Melton followed, on the 30th, by 320
south-east at Edderthorpe and 300 east over Goole Fields. Fewer records during November
with 160 north-east over South Anston on the 1st and 200 south-east at Moscar on the 10th
then, in December, 200 west at Shelf on the 7th with 380 east over the RVCP on the 15th and
172 west over Broomhill Ings on the 26th. The only records from the east of the county were
of 38 south over the LDNNR on 24th September and small numbers present there during these
latter months.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons
Scarce annual winter visitor.

Widespread in the county during the early months. Up to 24 were present at TLNR, having
remained from 1995, until 7th January when 24 appeared at Hornsea Mere increasing then to
27 on the 1 3th. 21 at the LDNNR on 4th January had increased to 207 on the 7th thereafter
large numbers were reported from this location throughout January. Elsewhere, during January,
18 were recorded at Scalby on the 9th with, on the 10th, 17 at Filey; 76 at Spurn on 18th then
on the 20th, 33 at Bumiston. 108 at Flamborough and 24 at Fairburn Ings. The following day
31 were at Sunk Island, 28 at Bolton-on-Swale, 15 at Southfield Res. and 26 at Kirkleatham,
these last birds remaining until the 25th. On the 22nd, 26 at Scaling Dam, remaining until early
February, with 26 at Roxby [no doubt the same flock and could possibly also have involved the
birds at Kirkleatham and Saltwick]. 28 at Guisborough on the 23rd when 24 were at Blacktoft
Sands with 1 4+ present unti I 1 3th February and higher counts there of 40 on 1 1 th February and
39 on the 13th. 142 were reported from Flamborough on the 26th with 137 there on the 28th
and 127 on the 30th decreasing to 1 13 on 3rd February. Also, on the 28th January, 26 were
reported from Saltwick

February saw a further increase in the numbers at the LDNNR with 407 reported on the 19th
whilst 66 were present at Hornsea Mere during the early days of this month. 48 were at Great
Langton on the 1 1th with 38 at Coatham Marsh that same day remaining until the 25th. 19 were
at Castle Howard on the 13th with 18 at Cromer Point on the 18th then 57 flew north at Spurn
on the 27th whilst 50 were on the Humber at that locality on the 28th. 65 were in the Easington
area on 2nd March with 18 there on the 6th [including ten first-year birds] whilst 18 were at
Spurn on the 10th [same flock?] then nine south there on the 25th with eight south on the 27th.
The large flock at the LDNNR continued to increase peaking at 830 on the 26th [Yorkshire
record].

Numbers reported during the latter months were normal with four adults at Wheldrake Ings on
15th November then up to 37 there during December; two south at Spurn on 16th November

16

then 18 at Sunk Island on the 30th with a large flock of 75 north off Grimston on the 9th
December and finally one at Filey on the 17th/l 8th.

Three birds attributed to the Greenland race A.a. flavirostris were at Nosterfield GP on 7th
January with one at Wheldrake Ings on 29th January and four at Royd Moor Res. on 26th
December. Individuals were also reported from VC64 though no dates or locations have been
received.

Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erylhropus

Very rare vagrant; origin clouded by escapes from captivity.

An adult frequented the areas of Brandesburton GP.; Pulfin Bog; TLNR and Hempholme
between 28th January and 13th April (DGH: RL et al) whilst what may have been the same
returning bird was at Blacktoft Sands on 19th December (AG et al).

Grey Lag Goose Anser anser

Well established feral breeder; range still extending.

Continues to spread being common in VC61 and parts of VCs 63; 64 and 65 though still largely
absent from the higher ground in the north and west of the county. It has become so widespread
and plentiful in VC6I that observers have ceased to report breeding records and all but the
largest gatherings and would seem to breed on all suitable waters in this VC. The only reported
breeding, however, was at Pulfin Bog [six pairs]; TLNR [seven pairs, though all but two
goslings killed by male Mute Swan] and the LDNNR [up to 56 pairs with good success]. Peak
counts recorded in VC61 were 556 at the LDNNR on 6th January with a Yorkshire record total
of 1304 on the 20th. This flock included a colour-ringed individual from Loch Eye [Ross &
Cromarty] thus the large movement noted here during this period may have included "wild
birds”. Numbers then fell to 1 100 on 9th February and 511 on 9th March. The flock increased
again from July to reach 1 200 during November. Young were seen on the R. Foss in York where
breeding may have occurred. Elsewhere, in VC 61, up to 600 were often present at Hornsea
Mere; 200 at TLNR on 6th February being the maximum there during the early months though
450 were present on 14th August then 590 on 22nd September with 561 on 15th December.
Bred in VC 62 at Castle Howard [no details]; Buttercramhe [one pair]; Wykeham Lakes [30
juveniles] and Seamer Road Mere [29 juveniles]. The largest gatherings in this VC being 305
at Castle Howard on 9th March; 320 at Wykeham Lakes in September; and 131 at Scaling Dam
in June [where also no doubt bred]. Stated as “widespread" in VC63 though as yet does not
breed in the Sheffield area. Breeding was reported from Blacktoft Sands [12 young]; Potteric
Carr [three pairs and nine young] and Thorpe Marsh leight pairsj. Blacktoft Sands reported the
largest numbers with maxima of 420 on 1 6th September; 28th September and 5th October then
450 on 10th October. No other location reported more than 100 with up to 64 in January at
Potteric Carr as the highest count whilst 54 were present there in December; 40 at Southfield
Res. in June and 36 at Thorpe Marsh on 17th February.

Still increasing in VC 64, both as a breeding bird and autumn/winter visitor. No breeding
details were received from this VC though the peak counts were 500 at Farnham GP in
September; 500 at Hay-a-Park GP during both September and October; 740 at Staveley NR in
October and 397 at Eccup Res. in September. Also continues to increase in VC 65, again both
as a breeding species and winter visitor. Breeding was reported as "widespread" at all lowland
waters with 147 young counted in the Bolton-on-Swale/Scorton Quarry area. Summering birds
frequently exceeded 300 at Bolton-on-Swale whilst maxima in that area were 750 on 11th
February; 850 on 25th August and 955 on 13th October. Nosterfield GP held 435 in January
with 430 in September whilst 320 were at Roundhill Res. in September.

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens

Small numbers of ferallescaped birds; has bred.

Eleven were reported from Swillington Ings on 1 0th April whilst ten were present at
Nosterfield GP between 30th April and 1 3th May though, on the 4th May, ten were seen flying
over Staveley NR and Catterick. Single birds were at Harewood Park on 14th January; Copt
Hewick on 12th February and 9th March; on many days during April and May at Staveley NR

17

whilst a “blue-phased” bird was at Wheldrake Ings from the 5th to 29th February. Two were
recorded at Blacktoft Sands on 19 occasions between 22nd March and 14th May. Two “blue-
phased” individuals were at Wheldrake Ings between 4th October and the end of the year.

Canada Goose Branta canadensis

Widespread, introduced breeding resident; still extending range.

As with Grey Lag Goose widely distributed but grossly under-reported. In VC61, known to
have bred at both Hornsea Mere and East Park [Hull], though no details were received from
either. One pair bred at TLNR [three young] whilst at the LDNNR some 46 pairs bred. Maxima
reported from this VC were 326 at Hornsea Mere in September with very large numbers at the
LDNNR where 67 1 were present on 6th January; 970 on 19th February then 391 on 9th March.
The flock then built up during the latter months to 380 by the 28th July thereafter monthly
maxima were 317 on 3rd August; 113 on 15th September; 310 on 28th October; 721 on 15th
November and 841 on 15 th December.

Some 26 pairs raised at least 90 young at ten locations in VC62 whilst the largest gathering
reported was 585 at Wykeham Lakes on 8th October. Full breeding details were not received
from VC63 but the species is widespread, flourishing and still extending its range particularly
at upland reservoirs. Breeding control was undertaken at the RVCP with no young being reared
and where peak counts were 470 on 23rd January and 302 on 13th October. Other maxima, of
over 300, were 382 at Pugney’s CP on 29th January; Broomhill Ings, 373 on 26th September;
329 at Worsbrough Res. on 19th September; 342 at Angler's CP on 9th October and 340 at
Royd Moor Res. on 24th December.

Full breeding details were also not received from VC64 though no change in status or
distribution was noted. Maxima reported from this VC being 725 at Farnham GP in November;
700 at Eccup Res. on 2nd September; 620 at Harewood Park on 15th December and 500 at
Hay-a-Park GP in January. No comments from VC 65 where Thornton Steward Res. held the
largest numbers with 212 in February and 240 in December.

Individuals ringed at Eccup Res. in June 1994 and the Beauly Firth, in July 1995, were at
Bretton Park on 29th February whilst one ringed at Hay-a-Park GP in July 1995 was at
Pugney’s CP on 1 1th November.

An individual considered to be of the race B. c. minima was at Fewston Res. on 30th May being
seen there and at nearby Swinsty Res. on many days to 30th June whilst a bird of one of the
smaller races was at Thorpe Marsh between the 17th and 19th February.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis

Feral populations have occasionally bred; scarce passage migrant and winter visitor from
Spitzbergen.

The flock at Hornsea Mere, during both winter periods, varied between 145 and 170. The origin
of this flock is unknown though is considered to be of feral origin and possibly from
Flamingoland near Kirby Misperton. Notwithstanding the influx into the county in January, the
25 seen near Hempholme on 7th February together with the 11 near TLNR during February
would probably originate from the feral flock held at a farm nearby. Also of dubious origins
must be the 14 that spent both winter periods at East Park, Hull whilst of definite feral origin
are the birds seen frequently in the Filey area; these emanating from the pair which breed at
nearby Primrose Valley where, this year, two young were reared; this flock now numbering
seven individuals. An adult with young was seen on the R. Ouse near York on the 7th June and
then with one young on the 9th whilst up to 12 birds were present at Farnham GP during all
months of the year excepting June. Twenty were reported at Castle Howard on the 2nd July
with 25 seen flying north-west over the RVCP on the 5th. One to four birds were reported quite
frequently from several locations during the months May to August.

As with other wildfowl there was an influx into the county in January associated with the
severe weather. On the 10th, 16 flew north at Spurn whilst a similar number flew south at Filey
on the 16th. On the 19th, nine passed west over Scalby then the following day, 53 appeared at
Flamborough. The Hock at Flamborough had increased to 55 by the following day when 26
were seen near Staithes; 26 over Gouthwaite Res., nine at Cromer Point; 133 at Great Langton

18

with 18 flying south at Ness Point when 15 were present at Saltwick with the mixed goose
flock. The flock at Flamborough remained at 55 on the 22nd whilst that at Saltwick had
increased to 26 whilst 20 were also present at Spurn. 54 were at Saltwick on the 25th then, on
the 28th, 29 flew north at Spurn; 31 east atCloughton; 30 east over Southfield Res. and 70 over
Castle Hill [Scarborough!, whilst the flock at Saltwick numbered 42, the last date they were
reported. The flock at Flamborough had 30 on the 30th and 22 there on 3rd February with, on
this last date, 32 were at Scorton and 42 flew south off Spurn whilst nine were at Askern Lake
on 1 0th/ 11th February. Numbers decreased after this with nine at Sunk Island on 17th
February; ten north over Wheldrake Ings on 25th March and 13 north at Spurn on 28th April.
During the latter months one to three birds were seen at some 15 locations with probable wild
birds being reported, mainly along the coast in October, when, on the 1st, 13 flew north at Filey
and 17 were reported from Flamborough. 55 flew south off Whitby on the 2nd; seven north
there on the 30th with eight at Bumiston the same day. Inland, and possibly referring to feral
birds, 14 at Methley on 17th November with four at Wheldrake Ings on 14th December.

One, of a party of four, at Southfield Res., present from 21st to 27th January, had been colour-
ringed in Sweden in July 1994.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla

Passage migrant and regular winter visitor to the Humber.

Present on the Humber, at Spurn, during the periods January to June and September to
December. Monthly maxima were 276 in January; 360, February and 480, March. Up to 114
during April decreased to 45 by the middle of May and then 14 by the end of that month with
the last being four on 19th June. The first returning birds here were four on the 16th September
thereafter numbers increased to 72 by the 23rd with an influx to 200 on the 29th. Up to 156
were recorded during October though numbers were low in November with a maximum of only
74 whilst the peak for December was 175. Parties were occasionally noted further up the
Humber with 75 at Cherry Cobb on 1 1 th February; 87 at Sunk Island on 9th March with 27
there on 26th December. A count of 79 at Blacktoft Sands, along the R. Ouse, on 29th February
was most unusual. Coastal passage was reported from many locations though invariably
concerned small numbers, with peaks of 70 north at Cowpen on 20th February whilst 24 flew
south at Filey that same day. 20 off Flamborough on the 3rd with 1 8 there the following day
then 57 south at Spurn on the 24th October with 28 on the 25th.

Away from the coast and the estuary, one or two birds were occasionally reported at the
LDNNR; Blacktoft Sands [see also above]; Thorpe Marsh; Broomhill Ings; Nosterfield GP and
Great Langton however, six were at Throapham on 17th April.

Birds of the pale-breasted race B. b. hrota were occasionally reported at Spurn, usually
involving one or two birds but four on 22nd January and five on 25th October. Two were at
Cherry Cobb on 14th January whilst, in and around the Scalby area, 16 were present from 6th
January to 2nd February. On the early date of 3 1 st August. 1 3 flew north at Grimston being also
reported from Flamborough and Ness Point. These birds were undoubtedly the small flock that
was seen the previous day, in Norfolk, flying north at Horsey then west along the north coast
at both Sherringham and Cley. 18 were at Flamborough on 9th September with one off
Whitestone Point that same day then, on 30th December, 15 north off Filey with nine at
Flamborough. Inland; three were at Almholme Marsh on 1 5th February [the first records of this
race in the Doncaster area] whilst one was present at Bolton-on-Swale from the 3rd February
to the 2nd March.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus

Introduced/feral; has very occasionally bred.

One at Skelton Lake, Leeds, on 2nd April whilst three flew over Thrybergh Banks on 15th
May; one at Womersley Quarry on 22nd December.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadoma ferruginea
Very scarce; feral/escapes confuse status.

One at Southfield Res. on 3rd January whilst a “tame individual”, in the Doncaster area, was

19

observed on the Stainforth & Keadby Canal from 14th to 17th February; on the R. Don near
Kirk Bramwith on 15th February; at Thorpe Marsh on the 11th March and at Tyrham Hall GP
on the 19th. Two were at Sunk Island on 15th June with two [same birds?] on the Humber at
Spurn on the 22nd then singles at this latter location on 5th and 1 3th October. Three were at
the LDNNR on 26th/27th August with two remaining on the 28th; three [possibly these same
birds?] were recorded at Wheldrake Ings on 11th September. What may also have been these
three birds were present at North Cave GP between the 30th August and the 29th September
visiting Broomfleet on the 21st September.

Shelduck Tadorna tadoma

Passage migrant; widespread winter visitor to the Humber and localised breeder.

No reported breeding from locations either along the coast or the Humber Estuary. Bred inland,
in VC6 1 , at TLNR where five pairs had broods of 2; 3; 3; 1 ; 5, though only two are thought to
have fledged. The increase in breeding numbers at the LDNNR continues with a total of 67
pairs present; success was not reported though, in June, seven adults were present with 41
young at Wheldrake Ings whereas in previous years young were taken down the Derwent to the
Ouse then the Humber Estuary to creche. Some ten pairs bred at Blacktoft Sands though here,
also, success was not reported. Breeding occurred in the Doncaster area; at Hatfield Moors,
where five adults with five juveniles were present on the 15th June and 15 juveniles from the
8th to 15th July; at Blaxton GP where two pairs were present with young; at Tynham Hall GP
without success and at EUerbolme GP where two pairs had young. In VC64, breeding occurred
at Otley GP; [no further details], and in the Leeds area between Knostrop SF and Swillington
Ings, involving at least nine broods whilst in VC65. up to three pairs bred at Marfield Quarry
with single pairs at both Scorton and Wensley.

Recorded at Spurn during all year with monthly maxima of between 220 and 273 during the
period January to March then, 46 in April, 39 in May increasing in June to 234 then 709 in July
thereafter low numbers in August until an influx on 1750 on 25th increasing to an all-time
location record of 2030 on the 31st. Totals fluctuated greatly during September and October
between a few hundred and two thousand with a new record total of 2070 on 20th October. Up
to 814 were present during November and 1100 in December. Peak counts along the Humber
Estuary were 1800 at Sunk Island on 2nd September with 2200 on the 31st then 1950 on 7th
September. Further upstream, 900 were at Brough Haven on 5th October with 600 present
between the 8th and 1 8th; 650 reported from Broomfleet on the 1 8th August whilst 5 1 0 adults
were at the HWFR on the 8th and 18th June. Along the R. Ouse, at Blacktoft Sands. 100+ were
recorded on at least nine occasions between 10th April and 23rd May with a peak of 171 on the
25th April.

Inland, in VC63, Anglers’ CP had 50 fly in from the west on 20th July whilst 31 flew over on
the 25th. Up to 24 were present at Southfield Res. during September and up to 26 in November.
On 17th November, 28 were at Blackmoorfoot Res.; 15 at Deer Hill Res. and ten at Ringstone
Edge Res. In VC64, 40 were in the area between Skelton Lake and Swillington on 7th April
with 21 in late autumn and up to ten in December. Up to 21 at Nosterfield GP [VC65], during
May.

Coastal passage was generally light with peaks of 256 on 15th November, at Flamborough
where 132 passed the following day; 100 also passed South Gare on this latter date whilst the
only day of passage at Spurn was the 24th October when 156 were reported. Parties were
occasionally noted passing to the east at Spurn with 72 on 24th June then 40 to 90 on eight days
in July though 200 were seen on the 25th.

Mandarin Aix galericulata

Introduced; small numbers of escaped birds reported annually.

One bird, or a pair, present along the R. Wharfe at Otley GP: Ben Rhydding GP. and Strid
Woods regularly to mid-November with breeding occurring; four juveniles being seen at the
last location on 15th November. Breeding also occurred at Harewood Park where three
immatures were present on 16th July; [these were not from Harewood Bird Garden as this
species is not kept there]. In the Leeds area individuals were noted a six locations, particularly

20

during autumn, with regular records from Harewood Park and Swillington Ings. In VC63 a
male was reported frequently at Elland GP or on the nearby canal during the months
January /February and October to December; a female was at Harold Park Lake [Bradford] on
three days in January whilst one was reported frequently at Netherwood [Barnsley] between
2nd January and 9th April and a female at Ringstone Edge Res. on 14th January. A male at
Thrybergh CP on 9th December with females at Broomhill Ings on the 2 1st with one flying
over the RVCP on the 11th.

Wigeon Anas penelope

Common passage migrant; abundant winter visitor; breeds in small numbers.

In April 23 pairs were present at the LDNNR whilst during May three broods totalling 15
young were seen with several further pairs thought to be incubating. Bred at Grimwith Res.
where four broods totalling 15 young were present on 6th June.

Numbers along the Humber, in winter, were "normal" with maxima of 2600 at the HWFR on
13th September; Cherry Cobb, 807 on 15th December whilst 805 flew west past Sunk Island
on 7th September. Only small numbers were reported from Spurn during the winter months.
Along the coast, in VC62, the flock at Jackson’s Bay (Scarborough], peaked at c. 250 on 19th
January whilst, at Flamborough, excellent numbers were reported with maxima, at Northcliffe,
of 236 on 20th January; 1 75 on the 22nd and 152 on the 4th February. Coastal passage was also
reported as normal with the only records of note being 355, at Flamborough. on 7th September;
763 there on 15th November and 241 the following day. Spurn had their peak movements
during the second part of October with 345 on the 15th and 430 on the 25th though 250 were
reported on the 16th November. 95 flew north off Filey on 9th September on which date 135
also moved north off Scarborough.

Inland, in VC61, large counts were recorded at TLNR where many birds came in from the
surrounding fields and gravel pits. Monthly maxima here were 3000 in January; 2600 in
February then 1046 in March and 2800 in December. The LDNNR had very large gatherings
with peaks of 12,000 on 21st January; 13,000 on 24th February and 13,060 on 9th March
thereafter decreasing to 2700 on the 20th April. Small numbers were present through July and
August increasing to 350 by the end of September thereafter monthly maxima were 1300 on
13th October; 3500 at the end of November and 6700 on 26th December. Only small numbers
were reported inland, in VC62. with 160 at Scaling Dam, in October, as the maximum.

Quite widespread in VC63 during both winter periods with Broomhill Ings having counts on
760 on 14lh January; 756 on 14th February; 523 on 29th November and 740 on the 29th
December whilst, at Blacktoft Sands, the peaks were 780 on 3rd February and 700 on 2nd
November. 470 were at Edderthorpe on 3rd March with 350 on the 26th December and, at
Anglers' CP, 338 were counted on the 10th February. Other locations in this VC to hold peaks
of 150+ were Methley GP, 170 on 28th January; Thorpe Marsh with 150 during
January/February and November; Southfield Res. with 275 during December; RVCP, 185 on
29th December and Pugney’s CP. with 242 on 24th December.

Peak counts in VC64 were 400 at Swillington Ings on 25th February with up to 320 there in
December; 334 at Eccup Res. on 1 0th January and up to 200 in December and Hay-a-Park GP
with 270 in January and 365 in November. Numbers at Bolton-on-Swale [VC65], where
the last was reported on 2nd June and the first returning birds on 20th July, were lower than
usual with peaks being 665 on 10th March and 520 on 15th December. Nosterfield GP recorded
450 in February and 435 in March whilst Wensley had up to 220 from January through
to March.

Gadwall Anas strepera

Increasing resident; passage migrant and winter visitor; small numbers released in recent
years.

Still increasing in numbers and spreading as a breeding bird though still scarce in both the north
and extreme south-west. In VC61 , two pairs bred successfully at Hotham with three successful
pairs at TLNR. At the LDNNR some 91 pairs were located in May with at least 20 broods
present in June and 27 broods totalling 121 young there in July. No definite breeding was

21

reported from VC62 whilst, in VC63, 1 1 pairs bred at four sites in the Barnsley/Doncaster area
rearing 78 young. Four pairs bred at two sites in the Sheffield area rearing 33 young with four
pairs at Blacktoft Sands, though no further details were received from there, and seven pairs at
four sites in the Castleford area but no young seen. At Edderthorpe a female and six young
[non-flying] were shot. The only breeding reported front VC64 was of five pairs in the
Swillington area but, again, no further details received. Did not breed in VC65.

No reports were received from Hornsea Mere, one of the strongholds of this species in the
county. Elsewhere, in VC61, TLNR generally had lower counts than usual with the peak there
being 120 on 20th June; 62 were at North Cave GP on 2nd November. The LDNNR had
monthly maxima of 77 on 6th January; 66 on 29th February; 167 on 30th March then 219 on
the 23rd April [a location record]. Following a successful breeding season, 147 were present
on 15th July thereafter numbers decreased to 24 by the end of September with counts
remaining low to the years' end. Scarce in VC62 with eight on the sea at Scarborough on 26th
August as the largest number reported.

In VC63, Potteric Carr, reported the highest numbers with peaks of 115 in August; 88 in
September then 49 in October whilst the RVCP had 69 on 13th November as the maximum
there. Up to 27 were occasionally recorded at Denaby Ings; Broomhill Ings and Thorpe Marsh.
Peak counts in VC64 came from Swillington Ings where numbers rose from 35 on 9th August
to 150 on the 31st and then, in September, a total of 240 were present in the Skelton
Lake/Swillington Ings area on the 21st whilst 145 were at Skelton Lake on 13th October. 60+
were at Mickletown Ings on 8th September whilst, at Farnham GP. monthly maxima were 68
in February; 60 in March and 90 during both November and December.

Teal Anas crecca

Resident, breeding in small numbers; common passage migrant and winter visitor.

The only breeding reported in the east of the county was at the LDNNR where at least 50 pairs
were thought to have been present from early May. In VC63, breeding numbers at Thorne
Moors were relatively unchanged from previous years with an estimated 20 to 30 pairs.
Elsewhere in this VC, breeding occurred at five lowland sites in the Barnsley and Doncaster
area with seven pairs rearing 32 young. In VC64, breeding was proven at Ben Rhydding and
Gouthwaite Res. with single pairs at each. No breeding was reported from VC65.

Counts at TLNR were low, particularly during the period September to November though the
peak of 900 on 28th December, when many nearby areas were frozen, was a record high for
that month. The monthly maxima at the LDNNR were; January, 2950; February, 3230; March
5650 then declining rapidly to 300 by the end of April. By the 3rd August, 179 were present
increasing to 450 at the end of September and then to a total of 2950 on 24th December. Small
numbers only were reported from VC62 with up to 172 at Scaling Dam during December. At
least seven locations in VC63 reported maxima of 200 to 400 during either winter periods with
higher counts at Blacktoft Sands of 627 on 1st September; Broomhill Ings, 520 on 13th
February and 813 on the 21st December whilst nearby Edderthorpe had 600 on the 26th
December [there is some movement between these last two sites] and Potteric Carr up to 405
during December.

Gouthwaite Res., in VC64, held the largest numbers with 819 in January; 512 in February; 875
in October; 800 in November and 600 in December and Eccup Res. recorded 452 on 10th
January whist several other locations occasionally reported up to 320. Maxima, in VC65, were
450 at Bolton-on-Swale on 14th January with 206 on 10th December whilst Leighton Res.
reported 151 on 26th November and Marfield Quarry. 103 in September.

Coastal Passage normal with maxima at Spurn being 329 on 25th August; 3 15 on 1 8th October
and 620 on the 25th whilst Flamborough had 225 on 25th August.

Birds, all males, of the North American race A.c. carolinensis [Green-winged Teal] were
recorded at Gouthwaite Res. on 20th and 24th January (PJC); Thorpe Marsh from the 11th
February to 18th March (MJP: JW); Blaxton GP from the 15th to 30th April (LJD: NPW) and
Pugney’s CP on 22nd April (CJP).

22

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Widespread breeding resident and winter visitor; numbers swollen by feral releases.

Few comments were received concerning any change in status with widespread breeding
occurring though actual numbers were not reported from many locations.

An estimated 600 pairs were present at the LDNNR during April whilst the only other location
in VC6 1 to actually report breeding was TLNR where up to 15 broods were noted with a further
six pairs breeding nearby. No comments from VC62 whilst, in VC63, at least 170 pairs with
530 young were in the Barnsley area with, in the Doncaster area, some 47 broods were
recorded from six sites plus definite breeding, but no further details, reported from at least a
further six. Bred at 28 locations in the Sheffield area which, although some would be in
Derbyshire, is a decrease from the 35 in 1995. The breeding status in VC64 was stated to be
"unchanged” with no comments received from VC65.

Maxima reported in the east were: TLNR, 800 in January: 950 in November and 2600 in
December [28th]; this last count being exceptional and a site record and due mainly to the
freeze up of local areas. The LDNNR had 4120 on 6th January falling to 2150 by the 31st then
2100 on 24th February with 1977 on 9th March and 1750 on 1st April. Up to 1000 were at both
Wheldrake and Aughton during August with 1600 on 15th September then 2100 on 3rd
October; 2900 on 23rd November and 3200 on 26th December. Peaks in VC62 were 400 at
Newburgh Priory in August; 335 at Scaling Dam in December and 300 at Castle Howard. 772
at Potteric Carr in December was the peak count for VC63 whilst Broomhill Ings had 556 in
September; Thorpe Marsh, 460, also in September and Southfield Res. 365 in December. The
RVCP recorded the most birds in the Sheffield area with 298 in November Nowhere in VC64
held in excess of 500 birds where maxima were 420 in October and 440 in December, at
Harewood Park; 393 at Eccup Res. on 5th February and 310 at Gouthwaite Res. in September.
Peak counts in VC65 were 380 at Bolton-on-Swale on 21st January and 340 at Leighton Res.
on 6th January.

Pintail Anas acuta

Very scarce breeding resident; fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Successful breeding occurred at the LDNNR where 21 pairs were present at the end of April
with six females considered to be incubating on the 30th with a clutch of two noted on the 19th
April, and one of nine at Bank Island in early May. A brood of five at Wheldrake Ings on the
18th May were the only young seen at this period however a creche of two females and 17
young were found on the 23rd June. At this location the monthly maxima were 104 on 21st
January; 310 on 28th February; 361 on 30th March with 316 on 1st April declining to 91 on
the 21st. Post-breeding numbers were small after which very few were reported during the
autumn and early winter with a peak of 31 on 21st December.

Along the Humber the only counts of note were 278 to the west at Sunk Island on 25th October
and 58, flying inland, at Broomfleet on 7th September. Up to six were occasionally at Filey
Dams in January whilst, over the sea there, 1 3 flew south on the 13th September. Flamborough
reported ten on 13th October with 15 on 16th November whilst further south, at Spurn. 26 flew
east on 27th March; eight to the east on 8th April with 18 on the 18th September; 19 on 24th
October and 17 the following day. One to four were occasionally reported from TLNR. No
significant records were received from VC62. A moderate year was reported from VC63 with
ten at Newington Flash [R. Idle] on 22nd March and nine to the south-east over Broomhill Ings
on 17th February whilst one to four were occasionally reported from this last location. Potteric
Carr had up to five occasionally during January then one to four during other times of the year
whilst one to three were reported at Southfield Res. on 36 occasions though six were present
there on 9th October. One to three occasionally, elsewhere, at 14 locations in the Doncaster/
Bamsley/Sheffield areas with the one at Blackburn Meadows NR on 8th January being the first
ever record for this location although it was followed by two on the 17th and another on the
21st. One to three were reported from 15 locations in VC64 during the period January-April
with records from ten locations during the latter months. Larger counts were seven at
Swillington Ings on 5th March and ten [five males] at Thruscross Res. on the 29th. In VC65,
14 were at Bolton-on-Swale on 20th January whilst one to five were occasionally reported from
Nosterfield GP; Masham GP; Leighton Res. and Stapleton.

23

Garganey Anas querquedula

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor; breeds in very small numbers.

Successful breeding occurred at the LDNNR where at least nine pairs were thought to be
present during June. Broods of nine and eight were seen about this time whilst it is considered
that at least four pairs reared young; the last newly-hatched brood being seen on 17th July.

The first of the year was a pair at North Duffield Carrs on 1 1 th March with a male at Scalby
on the 19th. By mid-April, one or two birds had been reported from TLNR; Otley GP.;
Pugney’s CP.; Coatham Marsh; JJurd’s Pond [Scarborough]; Whcldrake Ings and Barmby
Marsh. Throughout spring birds were quite widespread though usually concerned only one or
two individuals at each location however, excepting the LDNNR. five were at Blacktoft Sands
on 17th April; four at Nosterfield GP on 2nd May whilst three flew past Flamborough on 20th
April. During the autumn, again mainly one or two birds recorded at some 26 locations though
several parties were reported including five at Filey Dams for several days from 4th August;
ten at Swillington Ings on 6th August with eight there until the 11th. The last of the year were
singles at Mickletown Ings on 19th October and at Swillington Ings on the 20th; 22nd to 25th
and finally on the 28th.

Shoveler Anas clypeata

Resident breeding in small numbers; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Breeding occurred in VC61, at Saltmarshe Delph, where one pair produced nine young and at
the LDNNR where an estimated 1 20 pairs were present during April. Numbers there, however,
declined during May perhaps due to breeding failures. A maximum of 1 3 1 was reported on 1 5th
July with numerous broods noted in mid-month including a creche of 41 on the 17th. Several
pairs remained at TLNR throughout the summer but proof of breeding was not forthcoming.
Not reported as breeding in VC62. In VC63, breeding numbers were considered to have been
down with only 16 successful pairs producing some 84 young. Breeding did not occur in VC64
whilst, in VC65, it was only suspected, near Catterick.

The largest counts reported in the east were from the LDNNR where monthly maxima were 43
on 6th January; 104 on 28th February with a record 417 on the 18th March then 238 on 6th
April. During the latter months, numbers were far lower with 81 on 1st August; 27 on 2nd
September. 32 on 17th October; 49 on 21st November and 52 on 24th December. With no
records from Hornsea Mere. TLNR was the only other location holding any numbers though
the monthly peaks of ten and 40 in January and February respectively were low as were the
peaks of 106 in September; 60 in October and 75 in November; up to 92 in December being
more typical.

Only small numbers were recorded in VC62 with low counts from the western part of VC63
but maxima in the Doncaster/Bamsley areas would appear to have been normal. 100 were at
Potteric Carr during September and October; 84 at Blacktoft Sands on the 9th November with
up to 50 at Denaby Ings in November. Low numbers in VC64 during the early months with up
to 25 at Swillington Ings though counts in the autumn were much increased, particularly along
the Aire valley where 50 were at Swillington Ings on 17th August increasing to 120 on the 9th
December whilst, as a result of the freeze-up at the end of the year, the total reached 272.
Nearby Mickletown Ings had 82 on 18th November with 97 on 1 7th December. Only low
counts were reported from VC65 where no site held more than ten birds.

Coastal passage was normal with generally small numbers though a small peak was evident in
late October when Spurn reported 16 on the 23rd and 41 on the 24th. Elsewhere eight at
Flamborough on the 26th October was the highest count.

Red-crested Pochard Nett a rufltta

Feral/escape; possibility of genuine wild birds from the Continent.

The two “tame" males which frequented the RVCP throughout much of 1995 were present until
mid-March and again from mid-October to the year’s end with one occasionally reported
during April and May. A female at Blacktoft Sands on 6th May whilst a female was recorded
at John O'Gaunts’ Res. on the 5th/6th October. A pair were at Potteric Carr on the 2nd
November whilst a female at Newton-on-Derwent, on 26th November, was seen to fly south
along the river.

24

Pochard Aythya ferina

Quite widespread, though declining, breeder in small numbers; common to abundant
migrant and winter visitor.

Breeding numbers in the county continue to decline at quite an alarming rate being successful
at only two locations both in the east. Birds were present at several other sites during the
summer without any indications of breeding attempts. The LDNNR had up to 12 pairs present
during the breeding season though it is considered that only five actually bred raising some 33
young. Bred in East Park [Hull], where a single pair had three young.

As usual the LDNNR held by far the largest numbers with monthly peaks of 710 on 21st
January; 2712 on 29th February but only 1000+ the following day then falling further to 69 by
the 6th April. Counts were very low during the latter months until 115 arrived on the 23rd
December increasing to 750 on the 26th however, due to hard weather, only 1 5 were present
on the 3 1 st. An average year at TLNR excepting J uly when up to 1 00 were present. Elsewhere,
in VC61 , 120 were on Brough Pond on 14th February with 300 on the Humber off Hull on the
27th. Numbers in the Scarborough area were disappointingly low with very few reported,
however, 232 at Newburgh Priory, in the west of the VC, was exceptional. The only other
counts of note from VC62 were of up to 84 at Scaling Dam in October and November and 82
at Castle Howard on 1 0th February.

In VC63, an exceptional count of 527 was recorded at Thrybergh CP on 23rd February, this
being a record for any location in the Sheffield area. Elsewhere, peaks were 380 at Southfield
Res. in February and 266 at Pugney's CP on 3rd February. Swillington Ings held the most birds
in VC64 with 620 on 7th January; up to 520 during February with 500 present during the cold
weather of late December. The only other large gathering was reported from nearby Skelton
Lake with 225 in October. In VC65, Bolton-on-Swale had 190 on 2nd March with 144 on 15th
December whilst Noslerfield GP held 130 on 26th February.

Coastal passage was quite insignificant excepting on the 16th November when 55 flew south
at Spurn; 124 off Flamborough and 32 north at Filey.

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris
Very scarce vagrant from North America.

The long-staying, Aire valley, male was present at Swillington Ings on 31st March; 3rd and 8th
April; from the 14th to 17th and 25th to 30th May and then the 1st; 3rd 6th and 7th June. (MR;
PRM et al ). It was also reported along the valley at Mickletown Ings on 9th April (WJH). A
male was reported from Pugney’s CP on 2nd May (CJP: DP: PS) with a male at Angler’s CP
on the 18th August and then from the 23rd to the 5th September (JMT el al). Single females
were at Skelton Lake on the 13th October (MPL: PRM) and at Pugney’s CP from the 27th
December to the years’ end [It is possible that only two birds were involved].

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula

Quite widespread breeder; common to abundant migrant and winter visitor.

On reports received there would not appear to be any change in breeding status.

In VC61 , two pairs bred at TLNR. being a decrease from four pairs last year. The LDNNR had
up to 105 pairs during the summer with the first young being seen on 23rd June whilst, in July,
29 broods totalling 142 young were located. Bred at Filey Dams, the first time ever in this area,
where a single pair reared nine young. No other reports of breeding were received from this
VC though it is assumed, on past years, to still occur at several waters.

Possibly under-reported as a breeding bird in VC62 where a total of eight pairs bred at four
locations all in the south. No breeding was reported from the York area although birds were
present at several sites throughout the summer months. A good breeding season was reported
from VC63, where, in the Barnsley area, some 145 young were counted in 26 broods with, in
the Doncaster area, 16 pairs reared 97 young [there will be some duplication as parts of the
Doncaster and Barnsley area overlap]. Recorded as breeding at eight localities in the Sheffield
area where it was stated as a fairly typical year [again some overlap with Doncaster and
Barnsley also, it was not made certain how many, if any, were actually in Derbyshire], Well
over 20 pairs bred in VC64 however duckling mortality was high in some areas whilst in VC65,

25

breeding was confirmed at Bolton-on-Swale; Scorton; Kirby Fleatham; Forcett Park; Catterick;
Masham and Nosterfield.

With no records from Hornsea Mere, only TLNR and the LDNNR reported large numbers from
the east of the county. The former having below average counts for the early months when
maxima were, 350 in January; 450 in February with 332 in March but then exceptionally large
numbers in July and August with up to 980 and 1050 respectively. Counts for the remainder of
the year were generally average though 190 in November was low but 1200 on the 26th
December was considered as high and due to freezing conditions elsewhere. The LDNNR had
monthly maxima of 142 in January; 416, February; 281, March and 191 in April. Post-
breeding, 210 were present on the 15th July thereafter 49 on 10th October was the highest total
until an influx in late December brought 105 on the 24th. 101 at Scaling Dam in August was
the highest count from VC62 with 53 at Seamer Road Mere [Scarborough] on 28th February;
47 at Castle Howard on the 3rd February and 42 at York University on 7th January.
Widespread in VC63 though counts were stated as "quite modest” with maxima reported from
Thrybergh CP of 3 1 1 in January; 536 at Pugney’s CP on 30th December; 324 at Wintersett Res.
on 26th September and up to 100 at the RVCP during December. Peak counts in VC64 came
from Swillington Ings where c. 1000 were present on 31st January and during late December.
Five other locations in this VC occasionally reported up to 150 birds sometime during the
course of the year. Only Bolton-on-Swale, in VC65, recorded more than 100 with 153 on 11th
August whilst the maximum there at the end of the year was 91 on 15th December.

Scaup Aythya mania

Winter visitor in small numbers to the coast; scarce inland.

A wintering flock was present on the Humber, off Spurn, during the early months peaking with
495 on the 3rd February. Otherwise only small numbers were seen along the coast throughout
this period excepting at Flamborough where a continuation of the hard-weather movements of
December 1995 produced 24 on 1st January and, at Whitby, where a flock of up to 15 were
present off the harbour from the 27th January to 19th March. In February, 31 were reported at
Flamborough between the 3rd and 11th with maxima of 1 1 on the 9th and 16 the following day
when nine passed Filey and ten were at BLNR. One to seven were recorded along the coast at
most of the well-watched localities during March and April though 26 passed Spurn on 24th
March. A pair were present at Spurn, on the Humber, during the second half of May with the
female remaining to 3rd June whilst up to nine were there from the 25th to 30th July. Numbers
during the latter months were generally low along the coast, apart from isolated peaks, prior to
a hard-weather movement at the end of the year. Seven flew south at Whitby on 13th
September whilst Flamborough recorded 15 on the 6th October; 27 on 15th November, Spurn,
14 on the 17th. In December, a total of 180 passed Flamborough between the 21st and 31st with
peaks of 69 on the 27th; 34 on the 28th and 56 on the 29th. Elsewhere, eight flew south at South
Gare on the 27th and 37 north at Filey on the 29th.

Inland, in VC6I, one to four were occasionally recorded at seven locations in addition to the
six at TLNR [four males) on 3rd February whilst five [one male] were at North Duffield Carrs
on 5th October, Nine flew north over Burton Riggs GP [VC62J, on 7th January with, in VC63,
one to three at 11 sites between January and March plus ten at Southfield Res. from the 7th to
9th January and five there between the 2nd and 1 1 th February. Outwith this period, singles
were at Ingbirchworth Res. from the 19th April to 5th May and at Blaxton GP from the 1st
January to the 3rd May. During the latter months one or two birds occasionally reported from
11 locations.

Up to four, though generally singles, were at ten sites in VC64 between 1st January and the
27th April with 1 1 at Famham GP on 7th January whilst during the latter months, one or two
were occasionally seen at eight localities. Reported from four locations in VC65; two at
Nosterfield GP on 21st January with one on the 16th February; a female on the floods at
Yafforth on 15th February; single females at Bolton-on-Swale on 2nd January and 18th
February and a male at Beilflask Quarry on the 20th February.

26

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis
Accidental from North America.

A first-summer drake was found at Anglers’ CP Lake during the morning of 15th April (JMT).

It visited nearby Wintersett Res. on the 16th before returning to Anglers’ CP. On the 17th it was
to be found at Walton Hall where it remained until the 18th being relocated at Anglers’ CP on
the 20th, visiting Cold Hiendley Res on the 21st, the last date it was recorded. The first record
for Yorkshire.

Eider Somateria mollissima

Passage migrant and winter visitor; scarce inland.

Quite widespread along the coast during the winter months and apparently becoming more
common during the summer. Up to 180 were on the Humber, off Spurn, throughout January
then a record count of 260 on the 4lh February after which numbers fell to about 100 by the
end of March. Some 50 were present throughout the summer, however, from October onwards
no more than 30 were reported. Flamborough, likewise, had a good summering flock with
monthly maxima of 65 in May; 99 in June; 74 in July and 59 in August whilst, at Filey, birds
were present throughout the summer though counts were not forthcoming. South Gare also
reported birds during all months with a maximum of 56 in August. Other counts along the coast
were 81 off Redcar in January and 70 off Saltbum in April. Coastal passage was frequent,
particularly during the latter months of the year, invariably associated with northerly winds,
when, at Spurn, 94 were counted on 1 5th November with 243 passing Flamborough; 57 at Filey
and 61 reported from Long Nab. On the 16th, 302 were recorded at Flamborough when 123
were also seen at Spurn; 153 at Flamborough on the 17th then 181 there on the 27th whilst 108
flew north off Hornsea, in ten minutes, on the 28th. In December, excepting 100 that flew east
at Spurn on the 21st, only Flamborough produced large counts with 125 on the 7th; 737 on the
21st; 120 on the 22nd and 90 on the 24th.

Inland, in VC63, 13 which included five males, flew south-eastwards over Thome Moors on
the 10th January whilst an adult male was seen at the RVCP on the 21st. A long-staying female
was at Yeadon Tarn [VC64J from 17th February to the 17th November whilst another [or the
same?], female was at Eccup Res. on the 16th November.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis

Passage migrant and winter visitor in small numbers; occasionally inland.

Stated as a poor year at Flamborough, considering the number of other northern ducks, with
very few during the early months; two were seen on 2nd March, one the following day and
three on the 6th April. Further south, at Spurn, two on 28th January was the only record during
the early months. Reported on five occasions at Filey, all single birds excepting two on the 9th
March, whilst two were in Cornelian Bay [Scarborough), on 6th January.

More frequent during the latter months with single birds on five days at Spurn but two on the
13th November, six north at Grimston on the 12th November and eight north at Hornsea on the
28th. Two were at Flamborough on 25th October whilst, in November, a total of 32 birds were
reported including 12 on the 13th and eight on the 26th. Only two records in December here,
one on the 14th and two on the 29th. Conversely, autumnal movements north of Flamborough
were poor with two north off Staithes on the 29th October; two north off Scarborough on the
12th November and two females north at Whitby on 13lh. A female remained in Filey Bay from
28th November into 1997 whilst one was on the sea off Saltburn on the 24th December.

One flew west along the Humber, at Sunk Island, on 21st October whilst one was on the estuary
off Hessle on the 12th November. Further upstream, along the R. Ouse at Blacktott Sands, one
was reported on the 19th October with one there on the 25th November. Inland, three [two
males] were at Southfield Res. on the 23rd April.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra

Common winter visitor and passage migrant , infrequent in summer; occasionally inland.
Numbers throughout the first half of the year were quite low with only Filey; 100+ in the bay
on 2nd February and Flamborough; 202 off-shore on the 4th Febntary; reporting more than 100

27

during the early months. Maxima at Spurn, on the Humber, were 45 in January with 70 in
February. 144, at Flamborough in May, was the peak count anywhere for that month with 100
in June as the maximum there though Spurn recorded up to 160 during most of that month with
210 on the 22nd. July saw passage off-shore, particularly, at Flamborough where peaks were
250 on the 6th; 224 on the 19th and 200 on the 29th whilst Spurn had 134 on the 13th and 157
on the 29th. In August, 324 passed Flamborough on the 3rd when 100 were off Spurn; 105 at
Spurn the following day whilst 229 flew south at Filey on the 5th then 193 at Spurn on the 7th.
Smaller numbers during September with 158 at Spurn on the 5th as the highest count reported
whilst the monthly maximum at Flamborough was 116. 153 was the monthly maximum
recorded at Flamborough in November and was the only record of more than 100 anywhere
along the coast during the last three months.

66 flew west along the Humber, at Sunk Island, on 25th October whilst further up-stream, 22
were at Pauli that same day. The only inland record in VC61 came from TLNR where single
birds were present on the 4th April; 10th. 12th and 15th July with four [two males] on the 1 1th
April. In VC63 was reported on 24 occasions from a total of 1 7 locations during all months
excepting February and December, 18 of which were of single birds invariably for one or two
days only. Four were at Royd Moor Res. on the 24th April; four at Langsett Res. on the 9th July
and four at Southfield Res. on the 16th November; three were at Blackmoorfoot Res. on the
12th May and two at both Withens Clough on the 30th July and Thrybergh CP on the 17th
November. Considered to have been a poor year in VC64 where there were eight records of
single birds at seven locations. Not reported from VC65.

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca

Passage migrant and winter visitor in small numbers; very scarce inland

Scarcer during the early months than towards the end of the year. One was present in Filey Bay
until the 15th January with single birds occasionally there during February. Three were at
Flamborough on the 1st January with two on the 8th and one on the 10th; two recorded on the
10th February thereafter four on the 3rd April. Four were reported from the Redcar/Saltburn
area during January. The only record from Spurn came on the 19th April.

One passed Flamborough on the 1 7th May whilst, in July, singles were recorded on the 6th and
18th.

Both more widespread and numerous during the latter months with Spurn; Hornsea;
Flamborough; Filey; Scarborough; Whitby and Saltbum all reporting one to three birds
occasionally. During October larger parties were noted with, on the 5th, six at Flamborough
and seven at Filey; 11 at Flamborough on the 19th then six on the 20th and eight on the 25th.
Slightly fewer birds in November but 12 flew north at Filey on the 11th whilst Flamborough
had six on the 16th; six on the 23rd and nine on the 24th whilst five were off Spurn on the 15th.
The only location to record more than two birds on any day in December was Flamborough
where nine were seen on the 2nd and six on the 22nd.

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

Widespread common passage migrant and winter visitor; occasionally over-summers.

As no records were received from Hornsea Mere, the reported status of this species in VC61
was not a true reflection, TLNR recording the largest numbers with monthly maxima of
January. 52; February, 79; March. 90; April, 97; November, 22 and December. 100. One bird
summered here being joined by a second in August though both had departed by the end of that
month. The only other location reporting any numbers was the LDNNR where maxima were
26 in January; 39, February; 53 in March with the last birds, three, on the 21st April. 39 on the
26th December was the peak during the latter months. 22 at Scaling Dam in March was the
highest count inland in VC62 whilst a fairly normal year was reported from VC63 where peak
counts, in the early months, were 62 at Pugney's CP on 18th March and 58 at Wintersett Res.
on 18th February whilst several other localities had a maximum of between 14 and 22. The
same two locations held the largest numbers during the latter months with 59 at Wintersett Res.
on the 17th November and 32 at Pugney’s CP on the 29th December. A male remained into
June at Ringstone Edge Res. being joined by a second bird on the 15th both being present on

28

the 16th whilst one was at Whiteholme Res. on the 29th July. The first returning birds in this
VC being at Broomhill Ings on the 29th and Blackburn Meadows on the 30th September.

With the exception of the 62 at Skelton Lake on 6th January no reports of more than 20 were
received from VC64 until the commencement of the spring passage when Hay-a-Park GP held
up to 32 in April. A male was present at Swillington Ings on 31st May whilst the first returning
birds were not noted until mid-October. Maxima reported were 42 at Gouthwaite Res. in
November whilst, as a result of the cold spell in late December, 70+ were reported from
Swillington Ings on the 29th with several other waters having 15 or more birds during this
period. Only Bolton-on-Swale with peaks of 39 on 24th March and 71 on 15th April and
Nosterfield GP, with up to 29 in March, were the only locations in VC65 to record any
numbers.

Coastal passage at Spurn was very light with 12 on both the 23rd October and 16th November
as the peaks there. Further north, Flamborough had 12 on the 5th January; 25 on 30th October
with 43 on 15th November and 62 on the 16th December whilst Filey reported little passage
though a flock of 48 were in the bay on two days in November. 22 were on the sea off Hunt
Cliff in February with 47 past South Gare on 1 6th November.

Smew Mergellus atbellus

Scarce winter visitor; more numerous in severe winters.

A widespread influx occurred in January and February. In VC61, three were at TLNR on 6th
January when a redhead was at Thorganby. TLNR then had single birds on the 11th; 13th and
25th with two males on the 31st whilst a male was seen twice off Filey on the 29th. More
widespread in February with birds regularly at TLNR where there were three on the 1st; two
males from the 2nd to the 7th thereafter up to six birds [three males] being present to the 25th
then singles on the 26th and 28th. These birds frequently commuted across the R. Hull to the
series of gravel pits at Brandesburton; Burshill and Hempholme. Two were occasionally at
Hornsea Mere during this month with three [one male] at North Cave GP between the 17th and
25th. Two males flew north at Flamborough on 4th. Few in March with a redhead at TLNR on
the 10th; one at Wheldrake Ings on the 18th and two at Sunk Island on the 24th.

VC62 had a redhead in Scarborough Harbour on 29th January then eight briefly called at
Coatham Marsh on 7th February with one at Castle Howard on the 10th and what was possibly
the same bird there on the 18th. A redhead at South Gare on the 11th with singles at Coatham
Marsh from the 1 2th February to 24th March and at Seamer Road Mere [Scarborough] from
the 20th February until 1st March.

An unprecedented year in the Doncaster area [VC63] with a redhead at Southfield Res.
between the 4th and 6th February then four [two males] on the 10th/ 1 1th. A male and female
at Potteric Carr on 11th then another female on the 28th/29th. Male and female at Sprotbrough
Flash from the 14th to 20th and again from the 24th to 27th then 1st to 10th March. Away from
the Doncaster area, seven were present at Bretton Park from 3rd January to the 14th with eight
there on the 1 0th and 13th then one on the 4th February and from the 26th February to 6th
March. One at the RVCP on the 1st and 7th February whilst one was at Blacktoft Sands on the
3rd April. In VC64, a female was at Swillington Ings from the 7th to 26th January with up to
three redheads at Hay-a-Park GP between the 7th January and the 27th March. Three redheads
were at Bolton-on-Swale [VC65] from the 20th January into April.

Smaller numbers during the latter months with redheads at TLNR on 24th; 28 and 30th
November then, in December, a male on the 27th; a redhead on the 28th and three males on
the 30th. One at Pulfin Bog between the 30th November and the 7th December; one at
Wheldrake Ings on the 23rd/24th December with three on the Humber at Hessle on the 30th.
No birds were reported from VC62, whilst in VC63, a redhead was at the RVCP on 20th
December; a male at Southfield Res. on the 21st and a female at Thrybergh CP on the
27th/28th. A male at Knotford Nook [VC64] from the 21st to 26th December with three
redheads at Eccup Res. on the 25th and one at Swillington Ings from the 26th to 29th.

29

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Passage migrant and winter visitor in small numbers; has bred.

Bred at Redmires Res. where a female with two young was seen on 4th July; a return to former
status after a blank year in 1995. A redhead was seen at this site on 28th October whilst, also
in the Sheffield area, a redhead was at the RVCP on 25th January and a pair on the R. Don, at
Blackburn Meadows, on 10th December. Elsewhere, in VC63, one to three birds were
occasionally reported from some 11 locations but none were reported between July and
September. The Doncaster area reported an excellent year with birds recorded at Blaxton GP;
Broomhill lngs; Thorpe Marsh and Southfield Res., this last site having four [two males] on
the 4th February with one to three birds there on a further nine days of the year. Not so frequent
this year in VC64 where there were only ten records, all of single birds and invariably females,
at nine locations. The only record from VC65 concerned three birds at Nosterfield GP between
the 9th and 27th February. Only four singles inland in VC62; at Rawcliffe Lake from 24th to
27th January and 1st March; at Wykeham Lakes from the 3rd to 16th November and at Scaling
Dam on the 17th January whilst, in VC61, singles were at TLNR from 31st January to 2nd
February; 17th February; 26th March and the 20th October with Wheldrake being the only
other location in this VC to record birds with three on 19th January; two on 23rd March and
one on the 24th.

Along the coast, the monthly maxima during the winter periods, at South Gare, were, January,
24; February, 34; March, six; October, six: November, 12 and December, 30. Scarcer further
south with one to six occasionally at Sandsend, Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitestone Point,
Scarborough, Filey, Flamborough, Grimston and Spurn. Larger numbers reported were 12 at
Filey on 5th August; eight at Flamborough on 25th October with 14 on the 15th and 1 1 on the
16th November whilst seven were at Spurn on the 1 0th October and eight on the 25th. The only
records from the Humber were of 13 flying east at Sunk Island on 10th March and four there
regularly between the 5th and 25th October.

Goosander Mergus meganser

Well distributed breeder, extending range; widespread and quite common in winter.

Few records of breeding were recieved this year thus comment cannot be made though it is
thought that a range extension is still taking place. Although no proof was forthcoming it was
considered that breeding probably occurred adjacent to the LDNNR [VC61]. There were no
reports of breeding from VC62 though in past years small numbers have been known to breed
along the R. Rye. There were no records from VC63 whilst in VC64 it is reported that
successful breeding occurred along the Nidd; Skell; Ure; Aire and Wharfe but no comments
received of any range extension. Widespread reports of breeding in VC65 along the main rivers
and from some of the smaller feeder streams.

Remains very scarce in the east of VC61 where less than ten birds were reported from either
Hornsea Mere or TLNR. The LDNNR however had large numbers during the early months
with monthly maxima of 180+ on 25th and 28th January; 272 on 10th February and 213 on
20th March. Large counts were recorded at Castle Howard [VC62], in January peaking at 250
on the 9th, this despite attempts to “move the birds on". 50+ at Red House Res. on 20th January
was the only other significant count from this VC. Continues to increase in winter, in VC63,
where maxima reported were; Elland GP, 89 in January and 63, February; Southfield Res. 1 1 1
in January and 202 in February [this the highest ever count for the Doncaster area]; Broomhill
lngs, 68 on 26th February; Wintersett Res.. 86 on 13th February and Thornton Moor Res. with
133 on 13th January. Denaby lngs and Thrybergh CP both had up to 40 in February whilst the
RVCP reported 50 in that month with Bretton Park having a peak of 41 on 2nd March. Winter
numbers in the Harrogate area of VC64 were much reduced with only one record of over 100
being reported, conversely Eccup Res. had over 200 on nine dates with peaks of 276 on 1 3th
January; 230 on 25th February and 202 on 9th March. The Bradford area also saw larger than
usual numbers with 132 at Lindley Wood Res. on 10th February whilst a further six locations
in this region had peaks of between 50 and 80. 75 at Eccup Res. on 6th May indicated some
very late spring passage. 150 at Leighton Res. on 8th January was the peak count for VC65.
Numbers everywhere were low during the latter months with 39 on 30th November at the

30

LDNNR and 101 on 24th December. Very few present in VC62 whilst, in VC63 the highest
count was 54 at Elland GP in November and, in VC64, 177 at Eccup Res. on 25th December
whilst Lindley Wood Res. had 144 on 24th November. No significant counts from VC65.
Along the coast, only Flamborough reported more than ten birds with 16 on 5th January and
13 on 5th February; it being considered that this species is increasing at this location.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis

Introduced: first reported in 1968, breeding by 1980; spreading and increasing.

The only successful breeding reported in VC61 came from Filey Dams, where one pair reared
nine young [the first occurrence at this location] and from the LDNNR where several pairs
were present during the summer though only one young was seen indicating a very
unsuccessful season. In VC62, bred at Wykeham Lakes, for the first time ever; a male and two
females with 11 ducklings being seen whilst a single brood was reported at Coatham Marsh.
Probably bred at Castle Howard. Breeding occurred at ten locations in VC63 with a total of 18
pairs rearing some 40 young. Continues to increase and spread in VC64 with definite breeding
recorded at Staveley NR; Swillington Ings; Skelton Lake; Mickletown Ings and Harewood
Park and probably at Swillington Park and Red House Farm Pond. The first confirmed
breeding was reported from VC65 when a brood of eight was seen at Marfield Quarry
[Masham] whilst the species possibly bred at Pallet Hill.

With the exception of TLNR numbers reported from VC61 were still quite low; 1 1 pairs were
at the LDNNR in July but no other counts were reported from there whilst ten were at Welton
Water on 1 0th October. Numbers recorded wintering at TLNR showed a slight increase with
monthly maxima of January, 32; February, 48; March, 28; October, 32; November, 56 and
December 58. Notwithstanding the breeding records from VC62 no other location had more
than three birds at any one time. Quite widespread in the eastern part of VC63 with only small
numbers further west. Maxima reported were 101 at Worsbrough Res. on both the 20th and
22nd February; 63 at Broomhill Ings on the 24th March and 66 at Pugney's CP on 4th February.
Up to 50 were at Worsbrough Res. in November. In VC64, now widespread in the Harrogate
area as well as the Leeds/Castleford areas. As usual, Swillington Ings held the largest numbers
in the winter months with peaks of 280 in January; 250 in February and 180 on 26th December.
Now winters regularly at Bolton-on-Swale [VC65] where the highest count was 40 on 8th
November.

Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus

Scarce passage migrant and very rare breeder.

As the breeding male of previous years did not return the female of last year eventually paired
with a young male but breeding did not occur. At least seven different individuals visited the
area, however, most were considered as “passing through”.

Single birds were reported on passage as follows:- in May, west over the RVCP on the 6th;
south over Spurn on the 25th: west over Sheffield on Ihe 27th and north over Filey on the 31st.
In June; another north over Filey on the 1st; over Midhopestones on the 2nd; north over Hagg
Bridge [Pocklington], on the 9th and then, in July, at Cullingworth on the 9th and Thome
Moors on the 12th. One at Luddenden Dean on 18th August; south over Scalby on the 23rd
and, on the 25th, at Farnham GP and north-west over Redmires. September saw singles at
Ripon Ponds on the 5th; North Duffield Carrs on the 15th and Thome Moors on the 17th.

Black Kite Milvus migrans

Rare vagrant from the Continent invariably in spring; 15 records since 1975.

One, seen flying west, at Kilnsea at 1 120 on 24th April (DRM) was seen near Weeton at about
1200 that same day. One, watched independently, for some 30 minutes, by two observers (LC:
WB) at Dane's Dyke [Flamborough], on 19th April has yet to be submitted to the BBRC.

Red Kite Milvus milvus

Scarce wanderer from the British re-introduction schemes.

As the number of birds released through the re-introduction programme increases so does the

31

frequency of records. The two birds in the Wheldrake area in December 1995 remained in that
area until the end of January. During March, in southern Holderness, a wandering individual
was reported at Roos and Spurn on the 24th and at Grimston on the 27th. A bird at Lelley on
18th April may also have been this same individual. One at Bamby Dun [VC63] on the 16th
March then, on the 27th, one was seen over Derwent Edge flying towards Strines and could
have been the bird seen flying north-west over Burbage Moor on the 31st. On the 30th, one
over Yearby and Grangetown [Middlesbrough].

During April, singles at Kirby Fleatham [VC65] on the 4th: at both Margrave Ponds [VC62]
and Langfield Common [VC63] on the 6th; at the Ewden valley on the 8th; at Sprotbrough
Flash on the 9th; Cudworth Common on the 11th [this one carrying wing-tags from the E.
Midlands release scheme]; at Blacktoft Sands on the 12th then, in VC62, at Cropton Forest on
the 23rd and Port Mulgrave on the 29th.

Fewer records during the latter part of the year. Two with white wing-tags were on Skelding
Moor [VC64] on 15th August; two in the Gouthwaite Res. area on the 7th September with
singles, in VC61, at Thorganby on 19th September and Thornton Ellers on 7th October. One at
Northowram [VC63], on 25th November whilst one was seen intermittently in the
Colsterdale/Leighton/Roundhill area of VC65 during December. This last bird had yellow
wing-tags indicating it was from the central Scotland release scheme.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

Quite common passage migrant and summer visitor; increasing as a breeder.

Continues to increase though some locations reported a decreased spring passage in
comparison to 1995. Over-wintered at Blacktoft Sands where three were recorded on the 12th
January and six on the 22nd December. Individuals reported during February and March on
Thome Moors would, undoubtedly, be birds from Blacktoft Sands.

Breeding occurred at Blacktoft Sands where five “pairs" reared 13 young; two pairs also bred
at a second location on the R. Humber with five young being reared whilst it is possible that
breeding occurred near the LDNNR [same situation as in 1995].

Notwithstanding the Blacktoft Sands birds the first migrants were noted on the 2nd April at
Scaling Darn and Broomhead Moor; on the 3rd at Wheldrake Ings and the 6th at both
Flamborough and Filey. Single birds were widespread during April and May though multiple
records were few with two together at only four locations whilst three were at Wheldrake Ings
from the 4th to 7th April; at Spurn on the 24th April and Filey on 1 st June. The maximum count
from Blacktoft Sands being 17 on 21st May.

Less birds reported during the autumn, again invariably singles, but two at Wheldrake Ings
from 1st to 9th August; two at Spurn on the 10th and 22nd August whilst an adult female with
two juveniles at Southfield Res. on 1 4th September had possibly dispersed from nearby
Blacktoft Sands. Excepting the wintering birds at Blacktoft Sands, the last of the year were at
Bellflask Quarry on the 8th November and at Flamborough on the 14th.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus

Passage migrant and decreasing winter visitor; occasionally breeds.

A pair, together with a third bird, was present at the 1995 breeding location in VC62 though no
further details are forthcoming. Birds, invariably singles, were occasionally reported at two
locations on the North York Moors but no indication of possible breeding was noted [these
records came from different sources though may be one and the same]. Successful breeding
occurred at one site in VC65 with sightings at a second during the summer months.

In VC65, at last four birds were present in the Leighton/Colsterdalc area during the first winter
period with eight in the Leighton area during the second [these last birds occasionally being
reported in north Nidderdale [VC64]. Seven ring-tails were reported during an upland bird
survey on 8th December though to which exact area of VC64 this refers is unclear. One to three
individuals were quite frequently reported from the upland dales area of VC64 in the early
months with a similar distribution during the latter months though perhaps with more
frequency. One or two wintered on the moors near Halifax [VC63] and in the south-west with
single birds occasionally reported from the Doncaster/Hatfield area whilst, on Thome Moors,

32

birds were a little more widespread with two together on five occasions. The Blacktoft Sands
roost peaked at eight [five males] on 5th February and at six on the 22nd December. Blacktoft
notwithstanding, it is considered that fewer birds are being seen in VC63 than during the period
1975-1990.

At least three birds were in the Scaling Dam/Lockwood Beck area of VC62 between January
and April with up to four from October to December however, very few were reported from the
remainder of this VC. In VC61, during the early months, seven were at Welwick Saltmarsh on
14th January with four on both the 26th January and the 17th February. Three were at Sunk
Island on 24th February with two there during early March whilst Spurn had three on the 17th
April. Singles were occasionally recorded at 1 1 locations in this VC during either or both
winter periods.

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus
Very scarce passage migrant; has bred.

All records were of single birds, invariably in spring A ring-tail was at the RVCP on 8th May;
a male at Filey Dams on 25th; a male at Sunk Island on the 30th being present until the 1st June
with a ring-tail present at Sammy’s Point [Kilnsea], on both the 29th and 31st May and a
female at Spurn on the 31st [the Sammy's Point bird?], on which date a male was at Blacktoft
Sands. An immature male over Filey on 1st June whilst, on the 24th a ring-tail was seen over
Hawksworth Moor.

A female at Wheldrake Ings on 6th July then a ring-tail at Easington on 22nd August.
Goshawk Accipiter gentilis

Scarce but slowly increasing breeder; very rare passage migrant.

Stated as breeding in the Peak District National Park [Sheffield Bird Study Group] with good
success, however, it is thought this refers to Derbyshire rather than Yorkshire. Display noted at
four locations in VC64, though, whilst no actual proof of breeding was forthcoming, it was
strongly suspected. Birds were present at two or more locations in VC65 whilst, in VC61, one
or two birds were recorded quite frequently along the Lower Derwent, where breeding may
have occurred, with one or two immatures being seen during the latter months of the year.
Breeding was proven at one location in VC62 with three young being seen. This breeding
record was the only one received, however, it was not considered to reflect the true status of
this species in Yorkshire despite the fact that both VC63 and VC64 stated that there were fewer
records than in previous years. No comments were forthcoming from the other three VCs.
Two singles, reported along the coast, at South Gare on 2nd September and Spurn on 2nd
November, may have been migrants.

Sparrow hawk Accipiter nisus

Common resident; winter visitor and passage migrant.

Status throughout the county would appear to have stabilised after many years of increase and
spread. This species is now widespread with the result that many observers no longer comment
on status. In the east, however, it is still slowly increasing though records are not always
forthcoming. The first breeding record was received for Pulfin Bog |VC6!| whilst in other
areas of that VC it seems to be well distributed with three or four pairs in the Filey area;
probably breeding at Flamborough; quite frequently reported, with several pairs breeding,
around the Hornsea area and two pairs at TLNR. Along the LDNNR 12 pairs were located
though breeding was not confirmed from any other location in the York area. Widely reported
from VC62 though there was very little evidence of breeding. In VC63. confirmed breeding
occurred in the Doncaster area, at Wilsic: Broomhill Ings; Sprotbrough Flash and Potteric Carr,
totalling seven pairs whilst, in the Sheffield, area breeding was reported from 13 locations
though how many were in Derbyshire was not stated. Elsewhere, in this VC, would appear to
have had a good breeding season. Reported as the most common bird of prey in VC64 with
breeding status unchanged.

Little significant coastal movement noted with maxima of ten reported at Flamborough on 21st
September and five at Spurn on several occasions. 21 were counted along the LDNNR on 26th
December.

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Buzzard Buteo buteo

Uncommon but increasing breeding resident; scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

As a result of successful breeding in recent years in both northern Nottinghamshire and
Derbyshire, it was only a matter of time before birds spread into South Yorkshire, This year
birds were again present at Sandbeck Park where breeding, though not proven, was considered
highly likely. No breeding records from VC64 but, in VC65, probable or confirmed breeding
was reported from at least ten sites on the eastern fringe of the VC. In VC62, there were a
number of breeding season sightings along the western fringe of the North York Moors as well
as sightings of two birds in Wykeham Forest on both 5th May and 1st June.

The number of records continues to increase at a high rate, particularly in the VC64/65 area,
where, in upper Nidderdale. 17 were recorded on the 8th December with 20 in that same area
on the 15th. At least ten were in Colsterdale on 7th December. Up to seven were present in
Wharfedale during the first winter period whilst over one hundred sightings from the Bradford
area are testimony to this rapid increase in birds. Occasionally reported in VC61, usually
singles, but two were near Bielby on 6th April and two at Wheldrake on 1 2th October. Coastal
passage was again good, particularly at Flamborough where, in spring, a total of 30 birds were
noted [based on plumage differences; moult and feather wear]. Here four were present on the
8th April; ten on the 19th and three on the 29th then three on the 19th May. Two at Easington
on the 8th April were also seen at Spurn that same day with two at the latter location the
following day whilst three were seen there on the 16th. Three flew north at Filey on 1st June.

Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus

Very scarce passage migrant and winter visitor; occasional larger influxes.

A relatively quiet year with none in the east of the county [VC61; VC62], Only one bird was
reported during the early months, which frequented the south-west of the county, between the
30th March and 1 0th April putting in appearances during that period at Midhope Moors;
Ewden and the Upper Little Don. During the latter months singles were seen on the 8th
November between Linton and Threshfield; at Ewden. also on the 8th with what was
undoubtedly this same bird at Midhope on the 1 1 th; at Wilsic on the 2 1 st; on Barden Moor on
the 1st and 8th December and, finally, in Arkengarthdale on the 18th.

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos
Very rare winter visitor.

An immature frequented the upper Nidderdale/Colsterdale areas during November and early
December, being reported at Gouthwaite Res. on the 8th and 9th November; at Leighton Res.
on the 12th; Gouthwaite again on the 13th and then in Colsterdale during early December.
(JEA: K & RB: PJC; PV1; AO’N et at).

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Regular passage migrant in increasing numbers; rare in summer.

The first of the year were at Axle Lane and Wheldrake Ings on the 24th March then, on the
26th, one was at Richmond which remained until the 29th. Two were at Wheldrake Ings on the
29th then one at Blackmoorfoot Res. on the 30th. Quite widespread during April and May with
records from at least 21 locations, all concerning single birds though, from the dates and
locations, some could possibly involve the same birdls], June saw a number of records with
singles on the 1st at Blacktoft Sands and TLNR. this latter bird remaining until the 5th; on the
1 1th at Spurn and Wykeham Lakes, these possibly being the same bird; on the 20th, in VC64
[no location reported] and on the 23rd at Midhope and, on the 24th, at Denaby Ings.

Fewer records in the autumn, all concerning singles with the first returning bird on the 11th
August in the Scaling Dam/Lockwood Beck Res. area remaining until the 23rd. Birds were also
reported during this month at Waldendale; Bellflask Quarry; Thornton Moor Res.; Blacktoft
Sands; Thrybergh CP; Staveley NR [two singles]; Spurn and TLNR whilst, in September,
records came from Whitby; Kettleness; Barden [two singles]; Lindley Wood Res.; Timble and
Spurn [three singlesl with the last being at Pugney’s CP on the 21st and Spurn on the 26th.

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Kestrel Falco tinnunculus

Common resident and passage migrant

Few comments received on status with “status and distribution unchanged” [VC64], and “a
general indication of normal breeding populations throughout the VC" [VC63]. being the only
ones received. In the Doncaster area the larger counts came, as usual, during late summer/early
autumn with maxima reported being up to 12 at Broomhill lugs in August with 13 on 7th July
and 21st September; up to 14 in the Idle valley [Notts/Yorks border] in September whilst ten
were at Southfield Res. on 31st July. In VC64, maxima reported were seven at Gouthwaite Res.
on 1st September and 1 1 on Denton Moor on 8th August. By far the largest numbers in the
county came from the LDNNR [VC61 ], where an estimated 22 pairs bred. On the 26th July, 61
birds were counted with 57 in the valley on the 28th September and 41 on 19th November. A
record 69 were present on the 26th December with 21 on the 30th but very few on the 31st.
Coastal passage was uneventful with maxima at Flamborough, in April, of 12 on 19th; 16 on
the 20th and 1 1 on the 29th. Spurn, likewise, had a quiet year with very few in spring and, in
autumn, nine on 19th October with 11 on 1st November.

Merlin Falco columbarius

Resident breeder; passage migrant and winter visitor.

No breeding records were received from either VC65 or VC64. A poor breeding season was
reported from the Sheffield area of VC63 owing to several reasons including natural predation
and deliberate robbery. Elsewhere, in this VC, at least 12 pairs were located on the moors of
the west and south-west having mixed success. A pair, present on the North York Moors,
attempted to breed, though no further details are available.

Breeding status apart, in VC64, the population appears to have remained stable although
reports from the Leeds area were well down on normal: these records only involve wintering
birds thus no conclusion should be drawn from this fact. Birds were widespread throughout the
lowlands of VC63 in both winter periods with four at Blacktoft Sands on 29th December.
Regularly reported along the coast of VC62, usually singles, but occasionally two. Similarly,
in VC61. quite frequent occurrences of singles along the coast and the estuary during both
winter periods but two at Spurn in April and up to two occasionally in autumn with three on
the 19th October. Two at Sunk Island on 27th April. Recorded regularly along the Lower
Derwent to 25th April, though one was present on the 21st May, then again from the 26th July.
Two were reported on the 26th January; 22nd and 26th March; 29th September [perhaps three]
and on the 2nd October.

Hobby Falco subbuteo

Summer visitor and passage migrant; very scarce breeder.

Breeding again occurred in the Doncaster area occupying the same territory as in 1995 with
three young hatching but only two fledged; the whole family being seen until at least the 3rd
September. Birds were also reported displaying, on occasions, on Thome Moors.

The first of the year were on 21 st April on Thome Moors and at Wheldrake Ings with the last
on 25th September at Spurn and TLNR then finally one in VC64 [no location] on the 2nd
October. Records now are far too numerous to list individually. Excepting the breeding
location, several sites reported two birds together; RVCP and Wheldrake Ings, both on the 5th
May; East Cottingwith on the 22nd June; Wheldrake Ings on the 4th September and again there
between the 8th and 11th. Three were at Spurn on the 31st May whilst four were reported at
Wheldrake Ings on the 7th June.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

Resident and winter visitor; scarce, but increasing, breeder.

Comments and data on breeding status were sparse. Considered to still be slowly increasing in
VC64 though thought to be nearing the maximum number of breeding pairs that could be
supported taking into account the potential food supply and human disturbance. No details
received from the Dales of VC65 whilst, in VC63, out of some nine moorland sites in the west
and south-west, it is thought that only four reared young. Birds were present throughout the

35

year at Thorpe Marsh, frequenting the power station cooling towers. A pair were present at an
unspecified location in VC62, though there was no evidence of breeding whilst the species
probably bred in the Ravenscar area.

Records in the lowland again increased with numerous locations recording birds; several had
two together whilst three were present in the Wheldrake Ings area on 24th February with up to
three in that area during March and four on the 18th. Three were also in that same area on 26th
December. Three in the Filey area during October; three at Southfield Res. on 1st December
whilst up to four were in Nidderdale on 8th December.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus

Common resident.

A better year than for some time in VC64 though on some moors disease resulted in low
numbers and thus no shooting. A moderate year in VC63 but difficult to assess as under-
reported. No comments were received from VCs 62 and 65. One hundred were on Dallowgill
Moor during hard weather; 280 on Midhope Moor in early February, again during hard
weather, when 150 were at Walshaw Dean. In December over 100 on Snailsden and 100 at
Thruscross Res. on the 28th.

Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix
Scarce resident.

Still surviving in VC64, but only just, with the only record being a male, at Greenhow, on 18th
November. Numbers in VC65 would appear to be declining, with two females at Downholme,
in December; at least six at a site in Arkengarthdale and birds still present on Feldom Ranges
though numbers here were not reported.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa
Common resident; introduced.

No comments on status reported from VC61 though, at Flamborough where recorded regularly,
there is still evidence of hybrid Chukars. A. chukar. which are said to retreat from the Head
during hard weather more readily than the following species. No comments from VC62 whilst,
in VC63. considered to be declining in the Barnsley and Sheffield areas and definitely scarce
in both the Huddersfield and Halifax areas with only one record from the last location. Maxima
reported from this VC were 46 at Thrybergh CP [where normally scarce], on 22nd September
with four other coveys of 40+ in the Rotherham and Doncaster areas. Fewer than usual were
reported from the Leeds area [VC64], though this is attributed to under-reporting rather than a
change in status. Widely reported elsewhere from lowland areas of this VC with many coveys
of up to ten. Continues to extend into the north and west of VC65 with an increase in sightings
from the moorland fringes. The covey of 44 at Marfield NR on the 23rd September may well
have been due to a release of birds.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix
Resident; has decreased in recent years.

The only comments of status in VC61 came from the LDNNR and Flamborough with both
locations stating this species to be far more widespread than the last. Several records of coveys
in excess of 20 were reported in VC61 including c49 in the vicinity of the approach road to
TLNR. Survey work at the LDNNR located 41 pairs in April; 70 birds in the Thornton area in
September; 87 in the same area during November when 57 were at North Duffield Carrs whilst
a count of the whole area that month produced a total of 352. Scarce in VC62 where the only
confirmed breeding was at Scalby although pairs were seen during the summer at several
locations in the York area. Status would appear to be unchanged in VC63, being more widely
distributed and widespread than the previous species. Coveys of 30+ were reported from eight
sites with maxima of 53 at Broomhill Ings on 28th January and 56 on the 2nd October; 46 at
Thrybergh CP on the 9th November and 44 at Carlton Marsh on 17th January. Widely, though
thinly, distributed in VC64 excepting the Drax area where surprisingly common. Most coveys
in this VC were between ten and 15 but 30+ were at Eccup Res. on 28th January. No comments
from VC65.

36

Quail Coturnix coturnix

Summer visitor in varying numbers; occasionally breeds.

A return to more normal numbers. The only confirmed breeding was at Thornton [LDNNR],
where a brood of five was seen on 20th August. With the exception of the LDNNR where up
to nine birds were heard singing in May/June; near Wroot where five birds were present on 6th
August and at Skelton with up to six in June, all other records concerned either one or two
birds, invariably calling on one to three days. The first of the year was reported at Spurn on the
19th May with the last on the 14th October at Wheldrake Ings.

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus

Common resident; introduced.

No change in status with numbers maintained at an artificial level owing to captive breeding
and releases.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus

Introduced; very scarce, has occasionally bred in the past.

A male was observed at Ilkley on 4th and 24th April.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus

Resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Breeding was confirmed at Blacktoft Sands with 15 pairs present; at Potteric Carr, two pairs
with possibly two juveniles; at Wintersett Res [new site], two pairs with two and one juveniles
and at the LDNNR where numbers were uncertain but at least 1 1 broods were evident. Possibly
bred at Staveley NR where birds were present all year and at Faxfleet Ponds where birds were
calling all summer

The LDNNR recorded a total of 26 during January whilst 20 singing males were located in
March with 19 of these at Wheldrake Ings and 23 in April with 17 at Wheldrake Ings. In
August, 23 were found at Wheldrake Ings with a further 12 along the Pocklington Canal whilst
Wheldrake Ings had up to 12 in September with 18 in October; 24 in November and 21 during
early December. During the winter months five to seven were seen at TLNR, particularly
during the hard weather of early January, thereafter, up to five to the end of that month with
one to three then until spring however four were recorded several days. Recorded regularly in
early autumn with six on 1st November and five on both the 7th November and 1st December.
There were occasional records from VC62 in winter though the only record of two was on 22nd
December at Seamer Road Mere [Scarborough], Notwithstanding Blacktoft Sands; Potteric
Carr and Wintersett Res. birds were reported from some 25 locations in VC63 during both
winter periods, with many sites recording two birds occasionally. Larger counts were five at
High Royd SF on 14th February and four at Worsbrough Res. on the 23rd and 28th November.
The maximum at Staveley NR was eight on 15th September otherwise this species was quite
scarce elsewhere in VC64 with one or two birds at only 1 1 locations during the early months
and at only ten from late September. Three were at Woodlesford [Leeds], on 29th December.
Only one record from VC65, a single bird at Marfield Quarry in December.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana

Scarce passage migrant occasionally breeding.

The first returning bird, at Wheldrake Ings, was heard on the 27th April. Two were heard
calling here in May with singles in June. An immature being seen there on the 6th August
with another on the I6lh whilst adults were calling on the 17th and 23rd. It is considered that
breeding occurred at this location for the second consecutive year. The only other record
from VC61 was of a single bird flushed at Flantborough on the 21st September.

Singles were recorded in VC62, at Margrave Ponds, from the 1st to 7th September and at
Coatham Marsh on 1st November. In VC63, one was calling at Carlton Marsh on 4th April;
one at Blacktoft Sands from the 23rd August to the 3rd September then two on the 24th and
25th with one again on the 29th; 3rd and 9th October. In VC64, one, an immature, was at
Mickletown Ings from the 7th to 12th September.

37

Corncrake Crex crex

Very scarce passage migrant and summer visitor; has bred recently.

Single birds were heard calling at Wheldrake Ings on 21st May and 5th June with two there on
the 7th June and one again on the 8th and 9th. One present at Pinchinthorpe [near Guisborough]
on 26th May whilst one was seen and heard at Filey on the 7th July. One, at Upper Midhope
on 27th July with one at South Gare on 17th August. Finally, one flushed at Flamborough on
19th September and one [no doubt the same bird] there on the 21st.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Abundant breeding resident; some immigration in autumn/winter.

“Widespread and common" was the only comment received thus no change in status is
assumed.

Breeding numbers at the LDNNR were similar to 1995 with an estimated 250 pairs whilst the
monthly maxima there were 317 on 21st January; 122 on 24th February; 516 on 31st March
with 511 on 6th April. On the 15th July 121 were present whilst a full count of the area on 3rd
August gave 311; numbers then increased to give 8 1 6 on the 1 5th September with 900 on 2 1 st
October then 802 on 1 5th November and 5 1 7 on 11th December. Owing to the fact that counts
were not forthcoming from many waters known to support large numbers, Broomhill Ings, with
100 on 21st January, was the only other location to record good numbers. Other sites having
40 or more birds occasionally were; Castle Howard; Marfield Quarry; TLNR; the Don valley
[in the Sprotbrough area]; Mickletown Ings and Blackburn Meadows.

Coot Fulica atra

Very common breeding resident; some immigration in winter.

An estimated 500 pairs were present at the LDNNR in May/June which would be a small
increase in numbers over 1995. At all other locations the status was relatively stable though
said to be increasing in the west of the Sheffield area. Throughout the whole of the Sheffield
area the fledging success was low either due to predation or falling water levels.

No counts were received from Hornsea Mere. VC61. a stronghold of this species. Elsewhere,
in that VC. TLNR had maxima of, 800 in January; 770 in February [these very high counts
continuing from 1995] whilst, in autumn, 410 were present in September then 536 in October
and 200 in December. The LDNNR had peaks of 103 at the end of January after a low count
of 2 1 on the 3rd, 1 1 6 pn 24th February increasing to 289 by the 26th and 407 on the 29th then
719 on 10th March increasing, again, to a record site count of 1227 on the 30th then 1087 on
6th April. A record July total of 670 was recorded on the 15th being indicative of an excellent
breeding season. 8 1 were present on 1st August declining further to 59 by the end of the month
[however this was still a high count for that month]. Numbers were less than 46 in September
and remained so until December when an increase brought a peak count of 517 on the 11th.
Elsewhere, in VC61, no location reported more than 30 although this species is grossly under-
reported.

Fewer comments or counts were received from VC62 where the peaks were 245 at Scaling
Dam in November; 88 at Castle Howard in February with 64 at Seamer Road Mere,
Scarborough, during that same month. Peak counts in VC63 were 246 at Wintersett Res. on
18th February with 780 on the 1st December; 258 at Broomhill Ings on 12th February; 495 in
January at the RVCP with 469 in December and 458 at Pugney’s CP on 21st January. It has
become apparent that a crash in the wintering population occurred in 1994 which affected
Potteric Carr and possibly other locations. At Potteric Carr the maxima reported during
December were; 237 in 1992; 350 in 1993 then 1 1 in 1994; 35 in 1995 and 34 in 1996. Only
60 were present at Broomhill Ings in December though it is considered that the cessation of the
feeding programme there may be significant.

Status in VC64 was unchanged with maxima of 465 at Famham GP in January and 500 in
December; 555 in November at Hay-a-Park GP with 580 in December and, in the Leeds area,
330 in October at Skelton Lake and 280+ on the 1st September at Mickletown Ings. No counts
were received from the Fairburn Ings RSPB Reserve. In VC65. only Bolton-on-Swale had
large numbers with maxima of 652 on 21st January and 319 on the 15th December.

38

Crane Grus grus

Scarce vagrant from the Continent

On the 13th April, two were seen flying east over Timble (PC: AJ: RS) then on the 1st May two
adults were reported between Ruswarp and Whitby, last seen flying off to the north-west. (AR).
One, flying inland, over Muston [VC61], on 20th May (JH) whilst the following day one was
seen moving south over BLNR thence Spurn before departing along the Humber to the north-
west with what may have been the same bird seen circling over Wheldrake Ings on the 25th. A
sub-adult was present in the Kexby Bridge/Newton Mask area of the Derwent valley from the
21st June to 4th July whilst a bird seen flying south at Wheldrake Ings on the 11th may have
been this individual. One near Barden on the 8th September (BS)

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

Breeds in small numbers; common winter visitor and passage migrant.

Details and comments on breeding status a little sparse. In VC61 , reported breeding at Spurn;
BLNR; in the vicinity of TLNR; Pulfin Bog; North Cave GP; North Ferriby and the LDNNR;
in VC62, at Wykeham Lakes: in VC63 at Blaxton Common; Ellerholme; Southfield Marsh;
Broomhill Ings and Blaektoft Sands whilst both VC64 and VC65 gave no details though status
here is assumed to be unchanged.

Peak counts, in the east, at Spurn, were 1700 in January; 2000, February; 2500. March; 400 or
less from April to late July w'hen an influx gave 900 on the 30th with 1500 on 7th August
increasing to 2400 on the *1 8th thereafter 3600, September; 4000, October; 5000. November
and 2500 in December. 240 were in Cornelian Bay on 15th September whilst, further north,
741 were counted between Whitby and Saltwick Nab on 5th January and 558 on 6th February.
In the Coatham/Redcar area, peaks were 420 in March with 455 in August; 550 in September
and 1 156 in October. No large counts were recorded in VC63 with 47 at Blaektoft Sands on
25th July as the maximum though 25 at Ringstone Edge Res. on 7th August was noteworthy.
Spring passage, in VC64, began in mid-February although six were at Hay-a-Park GP in
January. The maxima reported were 60+ at Grimwith Res. on 2nd March and up to 55, also in
that month, at Hay-a-Park GP. In VC65, on 10th March, 23 were at Roundhill Res.; 24 at
Marfield Quarry and 1 57 at Nosterfield GP whilst, at Thornton Steward Res., 116 were present
on the 29th February [including the regular returning leucistic bird] increasing to 157 by the
3rd March, on which date 53 were at Bolton-on-Swale. No autumnal counts from VC65 but,
in VC64, 18 were at Gouthwaite Res. in July with 41 at Otley GP, also in that month. 26 were
at Lindley Wood Res on 16th September with the three at Knostrop SF on the 22nd being the
last records for that VC.

Coastal passage peaked in August with Spurn reporting 100-400 frequently but 1 143 on the 7th
then 261 at Flamborough on the 12th whilst the 23rd produced the most birds with 534 off
Filey; 739 at Flamborough and 1362 at Spurn. 309 were at Flamborough on the following day.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta

Increasing at one breeding location but scarce elsewhere.

14 pairs bred at Blaektoft Sands though only five young were fledged. The first to arrive there
were two on the 1st March with two on the 1st September being the last; numbers peaking at
33 on 25th June. The only other record from VC63 was of a single to the east along the canal
at nearby Southfield Res. on 27th April.

In VC61. birds were quite frequent “across the river” at Brough Haven where two were present
on the 9th June; 16 on the 23rd July with seven seen on the 22nd September and two on 12th
October. Five were nearby, at Crabley Creek, on 19th May whilst further downstream on the
estuary, one was at Sunk Island on 21st July. Singles were at Spurn, on the Humber shore, on
both the 13th January and 21st February whilst, at BLNR, singles were recorded on 2nd March
and 21st May. Two were at Filey Dams on the 21st May with one remaining until the 22nd
whilst, further north on the coast, one was present at Coatham Marsh from the 23rd to 31st.
Three flew north at Staithes on 20th July whilst nine were at Scaling Dam on the 26th
September.

39

Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus

Formerly bred now very rare, usually occurring in spring. 22 records since I960.

One, near TLNR, at Watton Borrow Pits, on 25th April, remained until the afternoon of the
following day. (MCh: ML: RL el al). It was seen to carry a white ring on its left leg though, as
yet, no details of the origin or significance have emerged.

Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincoia

Vagrant from Iberia/north-wesl Africa; ten records, seven since 1976.

An unidentified pratincole was seen, briefly, flying south at Muston on 3rd June ( GMB). On the
following day, a Collared Pratincole was seen at Hornsea Mere by several observers though,
as yet, no details have been forthcoming

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius
Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first of the year was at the RVCP on 17th March with records from Swillington Ings;
Broomhill lngs and TLNR on the 24th whilst many locations reported birds by the end of the
month including nine at Broomhill on the 31st. Widespread during April with up to 13 daily at
Broomhill Ings: one to three at several other sites in the Doncaster area whilst, in the Sheffield
area, up to six were at Blackburn Meadows. VC6I had up to six at TLNR and up to seven at
Bank Island, Wheldrake.

Breeding was quite widespread though, perhaps, in VC61, under-reported. In this VC, up to
three pairs were present at North Cave GP though only one was known to have reared young;
one pair at Pulfin Bog being successful with three young whilst at TLNR results were again
poor with only one pair attempting but failing. At the LDNNR a total of eight pairs were
located in April with four thought to have been incubating. Four pairs were still present in May
though only two were still incubating at the end of that month. Pairs were considered to have
bred also at North Duffield Carrs and Bank Island. VC62 had seven pairs at Wykeham Lakes
with one displaying at Burton Riggs GP. In VC63, the Doncaster area had three pairs at
Broomhill Ings; three pairs at Dale Pit Quarry; two pairs at Blaxton GP; two on Hatfield
Moors; four at Tynharn Hall GP and one at Ellerholme whilst, in the Sheffield area, two sites
held pairs, one of which reported young reared for the first time. Probable breeding occurred
at a further two sites. A summary for VC63 gave breeding at 29 sites totalling some 49 pairs of
which 55% hatched young resulting in 73 fledging. In VC64, breeding success was mixed; 14
pairs were recorded from nine sites whilst, in VC65, two pairs were at Pallet Hill; one each at
Scorton Quarry and Cleasby with four pairs along the R. Swale between Little Langton and
Ellerton.

Peak counts during the post-breeding season were 24 at Broomhill Ings on 24th July; 20 at
Knostrop SF on 14th July with 14 at Aldwarke SF also on the 14th The last of the year were
recorded at the RVCP on 27th September then, on the 5th October, at both Broomhill Ings and
Ingbirchworth Res.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

Breeding resident; passage migrant and winter visitor

Breeding status apparently unchanged. In VC61, bred at Spurn (five pairs); North Ferriby (two
pairs, on derelict industrial site) and possibly at the LDNNR. No breeding proof was
forthcoming from VC62 whilst, in VC63, in the Doncaster area, single pairs bred at Dale Pit
Quarry; Martin Common. Bawtry and at Finningley Park with no other reports from this VC.
Five pairs, at least, bred at Grimwith Res [VC64], with, probably, a further three between
Knostrop SF and Swillington Ings. Single pairs bred at Pallet Hill and Scorton Quarry, in
VC65.

Present all year at Spurn with up to 40 between January and March then 20 in April, 60 in May ,
20 throughout June and July after which record numbers were seen in August with 659 on the
26th. Totals then decreased rapidly in September to 300 and further, to 165, in October: 40 in
November and 25 in December. At Sunk Island, 450 were present on the 5th May with 80 on
7th September whilst, at Brough Haven, 80 were reported on the 22nd August and 30 on the

40

5th October. Further upstream still, at Blacktoft Sands, maxima in spring were low [due to
controlled water levels for breeding Avocets] with 22 on 28th may as the highest count
reported. The early autumnal maximum was 36 on 31st August.

Small numbers were recorded along the coast with 41 in Jackson’s Bay [Scarborough], on 3rd
January; 39 in August in the Coatham Sands/Redcar area whilst Jackson's Bay had up to 30
between October and December. Flamborough recorded 45 on 28th January; 44 on 8th
February; 38 on 25th August and 46 on 30th November. Little off-shore passage was reported
with 84 at Spurn on the 24th August as the maximum.

Inland, in spring, small numbers were recorded with 15 at Swillington Ings during mid-May;
up to 16 at Broomhill Ings in May w ith a peak of 24 on the 24th. Numbers during the autumn
were smaller with only Broomhill Ings recording double figures; 13 on 22nd September.

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

Very rare passage migrant; not reported annually.

One at Blacktoft Sands on 20th April (per AG)

Dotterel Charatlrius morinellus

Scarce annual passage migrant more frequent in spring; has very occasionally bred.

During the spring period the only record from VC61 came from Grimston where two were
present on 8th May then four on the 9th; five on the 1 1 th with eight between the 1 2th and 1 9th.
Reported from several locations in VC63 with five on Burbage Moor on the 16th April then
two from the 28th April to 3rd May and seven on the 5th. Swinefleet, as usual, had birds present
on many days to mid-May though full details have not been received. Six were reported on the
6th May with 1 1 on the 7th then ten on the 9th; 17 on the 18th and 27 on the 19th. Finningley
Park had six on the 1 1 th/ 1 2th with two remaining to the 15th. Up to six were present in
Nidderdale [VC64], between the 28th April and 7th May; six on llkley Moor on the 4th/5th
May with one present until the 12th. Two near Roundhill on the 12th/14th May and another
there on the 1 8th. A female was at Catterick Training Grounds on 28th May.

In autumn, an immature was on Thome Moors on 24th August with two flying over there on
the 7th September. One at Wilsic on 5th September with an immature at Wath on 22nd
September.

American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica

Very rare vagrant from North America/eastern Siberia: 13 records since the first in 1977.

A first-summer individual at South Anston on 5th September (J & MC: RH).

Correction to the 1994/5 Report: The individual at South Anston from 31st August to 6th
September was in 1995 [not 1994]

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria

Breeds on moorlands; passage migrant and winter visitor in large numbers.

The only confirmed breeding records in VC63 were from two sites in the Huddersfield area. In
the Sheffield area there were only a few records of territorial behaviour though this may be due
to under-reporting rather than any significant change in status, however, it is considered that a
small decline may have occurred. Breeding status in VC64 appears to be little changed with 23
pairs located in the Great Whemside area. No comments or details from VC65 whilst, in VC62,
stated as under-reported with 24 in Sleddale on 18th May as the only breeding season record.
Large parties were reported from VC6L though fewer flocks were reported during the early
months when 1000 were at Howdendyke Lee on 1 4th January with 1550 at Sunk Island on 9th
March The largest counts came from the LDNNR where maxima were 3500 on 1 3th January;
2900 on 25th February with 8900 on 10th March then 3900 on 1st April. In the latter months
large parties were reported from near Fraishtorpe. with up to 1500 in October; 2000+ near
Atwick in October/November; two flocks of 1000-2000 in the Hornsea area during September
- November; 1500 near Leven in October; up to 1000 at Sunk Island in October; 4500 at
Brough Haven on 2nd November with 1100 there on the 5th December and 3500 at
Howdendyke Lee on 9th October. 1100 were at the LDNNR on 15th September but then less

41

than 200 there until a flock built up, on farm-land adjacent to the Reserve, to 2100 on 27th
October; up to 2700 were feeding on arable land nearby throughout November moving onto
the Ings in December with 3000 present on the 30th.

No significant flocks were recorded in VC62 whilst, in VC63 was quite widespread with
maxima of 4000 at South Anston on 7th January; 5000+ at Cridling Stubbs on 1 4th January and
1400 at Stainforth on 14th February. Maxima during the latter months were c.2000 at Trent
Falls and nearby fields on 17th August; 2500 at Cridling Stubbs on both 26th October and 15th
December; 2500 at South Anston on 26th November; 1000 at Blacktoft Sands on 2nd
November; 1500 at Southfield Res. on 25th October and 1100 at Broomhill Ings on 16th
November. Other locations to occasionally record flocks of 500-1000 were Thorpe Marsh;
Thrybergh CP; Wilsic and RVCP.

Winter flocks in VC64 were smaller than in recent years with only 1200 at Harrogate on 16th
November; up to 650 at Pennypot Lane in January; 650 near Leeds/Bradford Airport on 30th
November. No other location reported more than 500. Maxima in VC65 were 760 at Pallet Hill
on 21st January with 500 at Nosterfield GP during both January and October.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Passage migrant and winter visitor.

Spurn recorded birds throughout the year with monthly maxima of 99 in January; 150,
February; 18, March; 84, April; 120, May; 40, June; 32, July; 58, August; 200, September; 120,
October; 54, November and 74 in December. Along the Humber, at Sunk Island, maxima were
705 on 3rd May with 260 on 28th October. Only small numbers were reported west of the
Humber Bridge with six at Brough Haven on 13th October though Blacktoft Sands had 12 to
1 6 between the 5th and 1 7th November with a peak of 20 on the 9th. Along the coast, 1 45 were
in the South Tees area in January whilst coastal passage was relatively quiet with 74 south off
Spurn on 4th July. Passage was noted at both Flamborough and Filey, associated with cold
weather, on 10th February with 28 at the former and eight at the latter.

Inland, in VC61, three were at Pulfin Bog on 24th March; three at Wheldrake Ings on 19th
January whilst a record 16 were reported from Bank Island on 1st December with three at
Wheldrake Ings the following day. VC63 had “a typical year” with up to three occasionally
repotted from some 20 locations though both the Doncaster and Sheffield areas reported a good
year. Up to three were recorded on 24 occasions at Southfield Res. and on five at Broomhill
Ings with four there on 2 1st September. VC64 recorded birds, one or two. occasionally at
Leventhorpe Ash Ponds; Swillington Park; Chelker Res. Swillington Ings; Eccup Res. and
Barden. Larger parties reported were four at Swillington Ings on 30th. May with two remaining
to the 6th June; six flew west over Barden on 6th October whilst seven went east at Swillington
Ings on the 12th. Only three records, all of single birds, in VC65, at Pallet Hill on 14th January;
at Nosterfield GP and Wensley, both on the 1 3th February.

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus

Declining as a breeder; passage migrant and common winter visitor.

Remains very scarce in some areas where formerly well-distributed. Few breeding records
were received from VC62 whilst, although in VC63, most societies reported good breeding
numbers from various sites, it is felt that with the decline of this species it is easier to
count/record these smaller numbers. No apparent change in status was reported from VC64
whilst, in VC65, reported as having a good breeding year on the higher ground although chick
survival was low.

With the exception of five pairs in the TLNR area and 12 at Heslington Tilmire, the only
confirmed breeding in VC61 came from the LDNNR which cannot be a true reflection of the
status in this area. At the LDNNR some 323 pairs were estimated to have been present during
May [a new Reserve record] with good breeding success. The only breeding record in VC62
came from the carr-lands between Wykeham and Sherburn where seven pairs were present. In
VC63 breeding occurred widely in the Doncaster area with 72 young from 25 broods at
Broomhill Ings; 20 pairs holding territory around Potteric Carr; 18 Pairs at Wilsic; Ten at
Finningley; 1 2 at Thome Ashfields with five at Southfield [though of these four were lost

42

during ploughing]. Well reported in the Sheffield area with 16 pairs at Blackburn Meadows and
11 at Brampton Common. In the Barnsley area, the only comment received was that out of 11
pairs at Wintersett Res. only two young were reared owing to predation by corvids and Black-
headed Gulls.

Large gatherings were reported, during winter/autumn, from all vice-counties with, in the east,
3000 at Sunk Island on 24th February. 1000 at Howdendyke Lee on 12th August. Maxima at
the LDNNR were 4500 on 13th January; 7300 on 24th February; 14,543 counted on the
9th/10th March declining rapidly to 2300 on the 30th with 2350 on the 1st April then to 1580
on the 5th. 1250 were at Wheldrake lngs on 14th July whilst a count of the whole valley the
following day gave 2050. Numbers then remained low through to October when an influx gave
3200 on the 27th though mainly on the adjacent arable lands. Up to 3850 were present in
November then 4100 on 20th December but only 30 remained at the end of the month due to
hard weather. In VC62, 2000+ were at Tollerton on 28th August and 1 500 at Jackson’ Bay on
18th March. The largest numbers reported from VC63 were at Cridling Stubbs where up to
2000 were present during the early months and 1 800 at the end of the year. Only three other
locations in this VC held more than 1000, all in August; Broadstones with 1000+ on 3rd; 1200
at Blacktoft Sands on the 10th and Southfield Res. with 1060 on the 27th. Maxima in VC64
were 1000 at Farnham GP in August and 1000 at Staveley NR in September: no other location
in this VC having more than 600 birds. 2000 at Nosterfield GP in October was the only large
gathering reported from VC65.

Coastal passage was light excepting a southerly movement, associated with hard weather, on
the 24th February, when 700 passed Filey; 316 at Flamborough and 2130 at Spurn [the large
numbers at Sunk Island and the LDNNR were most probably associated with this movement].
3450 passed Spurn the following day whilst 698 also flew south there on the 24th March.

Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris

Accidental from north-east Siberia

One frequented the Tees Estuary between 1 3th October and 5th November. The bird spent most
of the time on the northern [Durham] shore but visited the Yorkshire side on 17th October and
again between 2nd and 5th November. The first record for Yorkshire and only the second for
the UK.

Knot Calidris canutus

Passage migrant and common winter visitor.

Recorded in every month at Spurn where maxima were, 2850 in January; 4300, February;
2000, March; 800, April then 75 in May. Unprecedented numbers were reported in June with
400 on the 10th increasing to 2000 on the 12th; 5000 on the 20th then 7000 on the 30th. 10,000
were counted on the 1 st July w ith numbers remaining quite constant until a further increase to
12,000 in October and 15,000 on 1st November with a record total of 25,000 [for Spurn and
for Yorkshire], on the 6th after which there was a dramatic decrease to 8000 on the 17th then to
2500 on the 24th remaining at that level to the end of the year. 1300 were on the Tees in January
with 660 in March whilst Coatham Sands had 812 in January with 904 in February. Few counts
were received from the estuary though at Sunk Island 1 250 were reported on 1 4th January with
4000 on 24th February; 2000 on the 30th March and 2400 on 6th April. Only small numbers
were reported there during the latter months of the year with 710 on 16th November as the
peak. Further upstream, on the Ouse, at Blacktoft Sands, one or two were occasionally recorded
but four from the 2nd to 5th July with six on the 25th then seven on the 1 Ith September. 24
were, however, present on the 6th January.

Coastal passage was light with maxima of, at Flamborough, 251 north on 1 0th February; at
Filey, 300 north on the 2nd March; 312 south at Grimston on 21st July when 224 flew south at
Spurn and 178 south at Flamborough. 1 82 south at Filey on 6th August with 284 south at Spurn
on the 7th: 318 south at Spurn on the 10th then 200 south there on the 24th with 286 off
Flamborough that same day. 105 were noted at Flamborough in a cold weather movement on
31st December.

Inland, was reported from North Cave GP with four on the 13th January; two at Wheldrake

43

Ings between the 20th and 31st January with three there on the 9th/10th March and one on the
20th and 27th July. The only record from VC62 was of a single at Sand Hutton on 18th
November whilst, in VC63, notwithstanding Blacktoft Sands, birds were reported from ten
sites, all singles excepting one record of two together. Three were at Gouthwaite Res. [VC64],
on 7th January with one there on 2nd August and another on 13th December. Singles were at
Swillington Ings on 9lh April and at Chelker Res. from the 21st to 26th September.

Sanderling Calidris alba

Passage migrant and winter visitor.

Recorded during all months at Spurn with maxima of 40 in January; 80. February; 55, March;
45, April then, in May, after 90 on the 4th an increase to 300 on the 13th followed by a record
spring count of 686 on the 18th. Numbers then decreased to 320 on 2nd June though only 50
were present on the 15th thereafter small numbers until mid-July when 180 were recorded on
the 18th with 365 on the 25th. Monthly maxima then were 460 in August; 603, September; 153.
October; 84, November and 94 in December. No counts from the regular wintering area of
Bridlington Bay but 47 were at Hornsea on 4th December. Further north, along the coast, 74 at
Filey on 9th March and 50 in Scarborough South Bay on 18th December. 248 were recorded
along the beach at Coatham Sands/Redcar in January with monthly maxima of 286, February;
306, March; 129. April then 305 in May decreasing to 149 in June with less than 60 then until
October when 79 were reported increasing to 135 in November and 303 in December. Very
large numbers were reported from the estuary in spring with 860 at Sunk Island on 27th April
and 350 on the 20th May. Only small numbers further upstream with five at Brough Haven on
7th September whilst, along the Ouse, at Blacktoft Sands, one or two were occasionally
reported.

Inland, in VC61. singles were at North Cave GP on 13th January and both TLNR and Pulfin
Bog on the 1 1th May" which, no doubt, concerned the same bird. Two were at Wheldrake Ings
on 6th April with four there on the 22nd September. No records from inland in VC62 but, in
VC63, singles were recorded from six sites during May with three at both Wintersett Res. and
Ringstone Edge Res. and six at the former location on the 29th. Five were at Thornton Moor
Res. on 28th August whilst three flew past Southfield Res. on 17th November. One at Otley GP
[VC64], on 11th February whilst, during the period 19th to 25th May. up to four commuted
between Swillington Ings and Skelton Lake. In the autumn, one at Lindley Wood Res. on 24th
August, one at Swillington Ings on the 21st September with two there on the 18th.

Semi-paimated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla

Accidental from North America; two records, at Faxfleet in 1978 and BLNR in 1985
An adult at BLNR on 2nd June (NAB; JG et al )

Little Stint Calidris minuta

Passage migrant; small numbers in spring; varying numbers in autumn.

One or two birds were present at Blacktolt Sands between the 10th January and 17th February.
The only records during spring were singles at Sunk Island on 25th May and at Filey Dams on
the 9th/ 1 0th June. Singles were reported in July at Blacktoft Sands on the 21st/22nd; at
Wheldrake Ings on the 26th/27 and at Hurd's Pond [Scarborough] on the 28th. Few, also, in
August with singles at Wheldreake Ings on the 4th and 14th; three at Wykeham Lakes on the
10th; singles at Scalby Mills on the 14th; at Spurn on the 23rd and 28th and at TLNR on the
23rd/24th.

A very large influx occurred in mid-September with birds being reported from many locations.
The first records were on the 14th/15th with, on the 14th. birds at Swillington Ings then on the
15th, 32 at Blacktoft Sands when two were at both TLNR and Burton Riggs GP. The Bock at
Blacktoft Sands increased to 39 on the 16th and 41 on the 18th when four were at TLNR; five
at Filey Dams and 12 at Broomhill Ings. On the 19th, 54 were at Blacktoft Sands; 11 at Frickley
with nine at both TLNR and Filey Dams. Ten were at Wintersett Res. on the 20lh when 14 were
at Filey Dams with, on the 21st, widespread reports, when 73 were at Blacktoft Sands; 45 at
Broomhill Ings [23 grounded and 22 flying east]; 30 in the Grimston/Aldbrough area; 22 at

44

Sunk Island; 21 at both Swillington Ings and Lindley Wood Res.; 19 at the LDNNR [most
being at Melbourne]; 15 at Wintersett Res. and ten at Blackmoorfoot Res. 29 were reported at
Knostrop SF on the 22nd when 14 were at nearby Swillington Ings with 23 at the LDNNR and
13 at Wintersett Res. Numbers at TLNR had increased to 14 by the 23rd when 11 were at
Thrybergh Banks; 30 at Skelton Lake and 13 still at Melbourne. The following day saw 24 at
Wintersett Res.; 22 at Gouthwaite Res. with 18 at TLNR and 11 at Ringstone Edge Res. By the
25th, 80 were present at Blacktoft Sands [the peak count there], whilst on the 26th, 16 at
Swillington Ings; 19 at TLNR; 24 at Cowden; 16 at Treeton Dyke and 76 at Blacktoft Sands.
1 6 were still at Swillington Ings on the 27th when 20 were at TLNR and 1 1 at Ringstone Edge
Res. On the 28th, a massive 182 were at Brough Haven [the first count reported from this
location]. On the 30th, numbers at Blacktoft Sands had fallen to 26. During the period 21st to
30th September between 22 and 37 were present at Broomhill Ings; up to 18 at Scaling Dam
and ten at Margrove Ponds.

In October, 138 were counted at Brough Haven on the 4th falling to 59 the following day then
to six on the 1 8th with the last one on the 3 1st. Up to two were present at Blacktoft Sands until
the 19th whilst 18 were at Broomhill Ings on the 1st with 15 on the 2nd; five on the 3rd then
singles on the 5th/6th and 9th. One was at Redmires Res. on the 10th whilst the last bird at
Swillington Ings was reported on the 5th. Up to two were at Blacktoft Sands in November
between the 3rd and the 9th whilst two were at Cherry Cobb on the 13th. A single was at
Wheldrake Ings on 3 1 st December.

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii

Passage migrant; scarce in spring; very scarce in autumn.

Singles were reported in spring at North Cave GP from 21st April to 5th May; Blacktoft Sands
on 23rd April; Broomhill Ings from the 5th to 12th May; Bank Island on 7th May and Sunk
Island on the 1 1 th May.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos

Summer/autumn passage migrant from North America/Siberia; almost annual in recent
years.

A good year with singles in spring at Nosterfield GP from the 3rd to 7th May; Watton Borrow
Pits, near TLNR, on 5th May and Angler's CP on the 26th May. In autumn, singles were at
Spurn, being seen occasionally on the Humber between 30th July and 12th August; Coatham
Marsh, a juvenile, from the 4th to 10th September and one at Blacktoft Sands from the 17th to
21st September and again on the 24th.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea

Passage migrant; scarce in spring; varying numbers in autumn.

A single bird was reported from Blacktoft Sands on 4th January.

Very few recorded during spring with four at the RVCP from the 21st to 23rd April and singles
at Blacktoft Sands on 23rd April and 22nd May and at Sunk Island on the 3rd and 12th May.
Birds were reported on several dates in June at BLNR with four on the 26th whilst nearby
Spurn had one or two almost daily from the 16th. Slightly more widespread during July with
up to four almost daily at Spurn; singles at Blacktoft Sands on the 21st and 22nd and, at
Flamborough. two on the 20th and three the following day. Daily at Spurn during August,
usually one to four birds being involved but eight on the 1 1th; singles were at Flamborough on
the 4th; 8th and 24th; at TLNR from the 6th to the 8th; at Wheldrake Ings on the 9th and
Broomhill Ings on the 12th. An influx was noted at Blacktoft Sands commencing on the 26th.
Birds were quite widespread during September with one to four daily at Spurn to mid-month:
on the 5th. three were at Swillington Ings after which birds were reported from that location on
many dates to the 30th. Seven at Brough Haven on the 7th when three were at Broomhill Ings
and 24 at Blacktoft Sands whilst on the 8th, singles were at RVCP and Filey with two at
Broomhill Ings. Another single at Filey on the 10th then one at TLNR on the 12th remaining
to the following day when 12 were recorded at Sunk Island. 32 were at Blacktoft Sands on the
16th whilst, on the 17th, singles were at Filey and on Hatfield Moors [first record for this

45

location]. The 18th saw nine at Saltend with another single at Filey and. on the 19th. 41 at
Blacktoft Sands then, on the 20th, 26 at Sunk Island with the single bird still at Filey. Many
locations reported birds on the 21st with 21 at Sunk Island; six at Grimston/Aldbrough; 19 at
Spurn; 50 at Blacktoft Sands and seven at Swillington Ings. Six were at Skelton Lake and six
at Knostrop SF on the 22nd whilst eight were at Saltend the following day. One at Gouthwaite
Res. on the 24th/25th with, on the latter date, 53 at Blacktoft Sands and three at TLNR. Three
at Cowden on the 26th with ten at Spurn then 24 at Brough Haven on the 28th when 17 were
at Sunk Island and a single at Chelker Res, this last bird also being present the following day
when 16 were at Spurn whilst 16 were at Saltend on the 30th. Up to four were at Scaling Dam
during the latter part of this month with small numbers almost daily at TLNR and up to five at
Flamborough in this period though no dates were given.

One to five were at Spurn in October to mid-month though 16 were there on the 2nd with 13
on the 3rd. Cherry Cobb had six on the 4th; six on the 8th and four on the 1 3th whilst one was
at Kilnsea on the 6th. Ten remained at Blacktoft Sands on the 4th with birds present on many
dates until the last there on the 31st. One at Swillington Ings on the Uth with two on the 13th
and one again on the 14th. Two at Brough Haven on the 26th with one at Filey on the 26th
which remained until the 2nd November being joined by a second bird on the 27th October.
Small numbers being occasionally reported from the South Tees with the last bird being
reported from Coatham Marsh on the 29th.

A single bird was at Filey on the 27th December.

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima

Passage migrant and winter visitor to rocky coasts; rare in summer.

In VC62, the largest counts came from the Scarborough area where the maximum for the year
was 70 on 24th March; this peak being considerably down on that of 1995 when 186 were
recorded. Filey, in VC6 1 . likewise also reported far fewer this year with a peak of 48, in April,
compared with 128 last year. Further north, 46 were in Whitby harbour on the 5th January with
37 there on the 16th April whilst up to 16 were present during January in the Coatham
Sands/Redcar area.

Flamborough. VC61, reported birds until the last six. on 12th May, and then again from 18th
August; peak counts here were 57 in February; 46 in March; 44 in November and 54 in
December. Very few were seen south of Bridlington with one or two occasionally at Spurn in
February; April and May plus three flying south there on the 16th November. One was reported
from a flooded field in Kilnsea on 19th November.

The only inland record received was of a single bird at Swillington Ings on 17th November.
Dunlin Calidris alpina

Breeds in small numbers on the moors; common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Few details concerning breeding were received from VC63 whilst, in VC64, stated to have bred
on most moors with 1 1 adults in display/song on Great Whemside in late April/May.

Along the Humber, monthly maxima at Spurn were, January, 3300; Febiuary, 3000; March,
1500; April. 3000; May, 4000 during the early days decreasing to less than 100 by the end of
the month. Numbers remained low throughout June then increased in July to 300 on the 2nd
then 1250 on the 17th; 2500 on the 21st; 8000 on the 26th and 13,000 on the 28th [a record
count for that location). Up to 10,000 were present in August after which numbers fell to 4000
in September then. October, 3500; November. 2800 and December, 1500. Further upstream, at
Sunk Island. 3000 were recorded on the 24th February; 3000 on 12th April with 3000 on 28th
September and 1 150 on 1 1 th October. 600 were at Brough Haven on both the 1 5th November
and 29th December. At Blacktoft Sands, birds were present almost daily throughout the year
with peaks of 350 on 6th January; 420 on 18th July and 545 on 13th September. Small numbers
were reported along the coast with a maximum at Flamborough of 1 35 on 10th February; 250
at Filey in January with up to 150 there in December whilst up to 185 were reported in Robin
Hood’s Bay between the 7th and 29th January.

Inland, birds were reported frequently from the LDNNR with some large counts; 344 on the
7th January increased to 882 by the 20th then down to 20 during the cold weather at the end of

46

that month. However, by the 17th February, numbers had increased to 550 with 1000+ on the
24th and then 1970 on the 23rd March thereafter decreasing to 570 on the 30th; 521 on 5th
April; 380 on the 18th and 100+ on the 26th and only 30 on the 28th with the last birds being
seen on 1 3th May. Small numbers were present from the 1 Ith July with 17 on the 27th as the
largest gathering until 40 were reported on 1st December thereafter increasing to 100 on the
21st; 300 on the 24th and 500 on the 27th.

Disregarding Blacktoft Sands, reported during all months from VC63, generally in small
numbers with no substantial or obvious passage. Maxima recorded being 29 at Broomhill lngs
on 24th March; 22 at Southfield Res. on 17th March and up to 15 at Broomhill lngs during
April. During the autumn period peak counts reported were 25 at Broomhill lngs on 8th
September whilst, in November, 15 flew west over Southfield Res. on the 4th and, in
December, 38 at Went lngs on the 24th and 1 1 at Broomhill lngs on the 25th.

Only small numbers also, in VC64, with most records being from Swillington lngs where
up to 19 were present in January and eight in September whilst ten were at Gouthwaite Res.,
also in September. The only record of note from VC65 was of up to 28 at Nosterfield GP in
March.

Coastal passage was generally average though, on the 21st July, a record 2482 passed
Flamborough; 619 flew south off Grimston and 1 163 off Spurn. In August, 729 south at Spurn
on the 17th; 359 at Flamborough on the 18th with 152 at Filey on the 23rd. 239 flew south off
Flamborough on 7th September.

Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus

Rare vagrant from Scandinavia/Russia; 14 records, one in 1863 then 13 since 1984.

One at Fairbum lngs on 12th May. (NCD: DJP). The eighth inland record for the UK and the
fourth inland for Yorkshire [all at Hornsea Mere; 1863; 1989 and 1990].

Ruff Philomachus pugnax

Passage migrant and winter visitor; largest numbers in autumn; has occasionally bred.
Lekking was noted towards the end of April at the LDNNR where it was estimated that 26
females and 12 males were present whilst one or two females were present in early May.

In January the peak count at the LDNNR was 121 on the 7th. Elsewhere, small numbers were
present occasionally at Blacktoft Sands: two at Swillington lngs on the 13th; One in Jackson's
Bay [Scarborough], on the 9th with one at Southfield Res. on the 23rd. 41 were at the LDNNR
on the 24th February with the only other record this month being a single bird at the RVCP on
the 10th/ 1 1th. Recorded from some six locations in March; all of one or two birds excepting up
to 42 at the LDNNR |on the 31st]. Similarly, in April, numbers were low with up to 12 on the
South Tees during the month; six at Blaxton GP from the 5th to 7th and six at Ellerholme GP
on the 1 5th.

Three were at Nosterfield GP on 2nd June with one at Eccup Res. on the 12th.

Autumnal passage was noted from early/mid-July with up to seven at the LDNNR; 38 at
Blacktoft Sands on the 12th with 54 on the 30th; 17 at Sunk Island on the 6th whilst one to
three were reported from a further five locations. More widespread, and in larger numbers,
during August; Blacktoft Sands bad 72 on the 4th; 70 on the 23rd and 52 on the 26th. Maxima
at the LDNNR being 17 on the 2nd with 19 on the 3rd and 12 on the 9th. At TLNR. ten were
present on the 18th with 12 on the 22nd and 16 on the 26th whilst 12 were at Sunk Island on
the 11th; 12 at Spurn on the 24th and 12 at Flamborough on the 26th. Likewise, in September,
quite widespread, with 47 at Blacktoft Sands on the 17th being the peak count there and 20 at
the LDNNR on the 29th as their peak. TLNR had good numbers during this month with up to
19 regularly and peaks of 39 on the 16th; 59 on the 22nd and 26th then 37 on the 27th and 41
on the 29th. 20 were at Brough Haven on the 22nd whilst 1 1 were at Knostrop SF on the 8th;
17 at Skelton Lake on the 15th and 13 at Southfield Res. on the 21st. A party of 23 on the beach
at Jackson’s Bay on the 7th was a little unusual.

Numbers were generally lower in October but 25 were at TLNR on the 4th with 17 still present
on the 13th whilst, in November, 33 were reported from Blacktoft Sands on the 9th and then,
towards the end of this month, numbers began to increase at the LDNNR with 17 on the 22nd;

47

24 on the 25th and 29 on the 28th. In December, at this last location, 17 were present on the
15th with 49 on the 20th and 67 the following day though, with the onset of hard weather, few
remained at the end of the month. Five or six were reported, almost daily, during these last two
months, at TLNR, with seven on the 10th November but none, due to the cold weather, after
25th December.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus

Passage migrant and winter visitor; has declined in recent years.

In general, a poor year. During the early months birds, invariably singles, were reported from
nine locations in VC61; from six in VC62; at least 24 in VC63; eight in VC64 with none in
VC65. A similar situation was reported during the latter months though with slightly less sites
reporting birds. Two together were occasionally reported from Filey Dams; TLNR (on 6th
May]; Blackburn Meadows; Bolehill Flash; Staveley NR; Denaby Ings; Thorpe Marsh and
North Cave GP.

The only locations to record more than two were Gallows Hill Pond with five on the 24th
December; three at Seavy Carr on 18th March then five at Wheldrake Ings on the 14th October
with at least three there to the end of the month. Four were present there in early November
with a record, site, count of 14 on the 15th. Three there on the 17th December.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago

Passage migrant and winter visitor; has declined as a breeding bird in recent years
It is apparent that breeding numbers continued to decline on the moorland areas in the west of
the county although in some areas coverage was scant and may not have been a true reflection
of the status. In VC65. no breeding was reported away from the high ground with some
observers noting a further decline on the uplands. The only areas of VC64 where drumming
was reported were Dallow Moor; near Baildon; at Otley GP and Barden Scale. Reported as
breeding on moorland sites of VC63 covered by societies in the west, however, in many areas
coverage was generally sparse thus no definite trend can be drawn. Bred at one lowland site in
the Sheffield area and at eight in the Doncaster area [including the portion in Notts]. The trend
in the lowland area of VC-63 was also of a decline particularly around Doncaster where some
15 drumming birds were reported. No census was carried out here but compared with the last,
in 1994, when 34 to 36 drumming birds were recorded, it is obvious a dramatic decline has
occurred.

Drumming was noted at only four sites in VC62; Lockwood Beck; Scaling Dam; Heslington
Tilmire and Strensall Common although a bird was seen occasionally at Stearsby in an area
that, prior to draining, had supported six pairs. One drumming at TLNR on 12th May and one
or two near Spaldington were the only records in VC61 away from the LDNNR. At that last
location it was estimated that on 21st April some 380 drumming birds were present.

Numbers at most locations, during both winter periods, were low with the exception of the
LDNNR. In VC6I. TLNR generally held ten to 20 birds throughout the early months with 29
on the 3rd March as the peak whilst, during the latter months, 50 to 53 were recorded in the
latter part of August then 40+ until 10th October but 61 on the 7th. 28 at Filey Dams, in the
early months, was the maximum recorded there. In VC63, maxima reported were 48 at
Blacktoft Sands on 25th August; 39 at Broomhill Ings on both the 25th March and 13th August
whilst 34 were at Edderthorpe on the 18th December. Only four other sites reported more than
20. 27 at Beaverdyke Res. on 19th August was the highest count from VC64 with up to 24 at
Swillington Ings during both winter periods and 21 at Little Studley Meadows throughout late
August/early September. The maximum in VC65 was only 24, at Marfield NR on 21st August
with 19 at Seorton as the largest gathering in either winter period.

The stronghold of this species in the county, the LDNNR. held large numbers occasionally
during both winter periods. 123 were at Wheldrake Ings on 7th January with 150 on the 20th
and 108 on the 24th February. Bank Island had 472 on the 9th March whilst on the 30th/31st
an estimated 1531 were present in the area which increased to 1780 on the 6th April [record
count for Yorkshire]. It was estimated that 300 were at Wheldrake Ings on 8th July whilst a
more thorough survey on the 14th gave a total of 500 and a count ot the whole valley, a total

48

of 537. Good numbers were present throughout August then, on 1st September, 300 were at
Wheldrake Ings but on the 29th a southerly movement, somewhat unusual here, produced a
total of c.400. During the last three months peaks were 150 on 1st October with 200 on 14th
November and 350 on the 22nd.

Great Snipe Gallinago media

Formerly a scarce vagrant now an accidental; five records since 1910, in 1975; 1984; 1989
and 1993 (two).

One at Kilnsea on 20th September. (GPC: DH et al ). One, reported at Flamborough on 26th
September (PAL), has not, as yet, been submitted to the BBRC.

Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus

Accidental from Alaska/north-east Siberia; five records; in 1974; 1976; 1981; 1983 and
1995. [Additionally, six dowitchers not specifically identified].

Single summer-plumaged birds were reported flying south, off-shore, at Spurn on 22nd August
and 28th September. One in non-breeding plumage also flew south there on 7th August.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola

Passage migrant and winter visitor; breeds in small numbers.

The only definite breeding occurrence in VC61 was at Hotham where three pairs were
reported. It is considered that this is not a true statement of the status in this VC whilst, in
VC62, records of roding birds came from various forest sites though no estimate of numbers
were received. Likewise, in VC63, the true status is difficult to assess with roding birds
reported from many locations within each local society area; the highest counts being ten each
at Langsetl and Wharncliffe. No apparent change in status or distribution was noted in VC64
being widely reported, chiefly, from the lowland ground though occasionally also from upland
areas including one above Scar House Res. Dam on 1 4th February.

Only small numbers reported along the coast with ten at Spurn on 16th November as the
maximum there whilst Flamborough had 13 on the 28th January and 11 on 23rd March as the
peak counts and Grimston. 14 on the 25th. Nowhere else reported more than four. 15 were
flushed in Troutsdale on 22nd November with 15 at Wilsic on 9th November. At least 30 were
flushed during a single Pheasant drive on Feldom Ranges on 16th December.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa

Passage migrant and winter visitor in small numbers; very occasionally breeds.

A single pair were present at the LDNNR in April with the female thought to be incubating by
the 5th; no further details available.

Reported quite regularly along the flumber/Ouse with generally small numbers except in
autumn; the peaks outwith this period being 19 at Spurn on 9th March and 18 at Sunk Island
on 28th April. 32 were at Blacktoft Sands on 1 3th July with 3 1 there on the 28th whilst 30 were
at Saltend on the 22nd and 99 at Cherry Cobb on the 29th. In August, 103 were at Sunk Island
on the 2nd though only 41 were there the following day whilst, on the 7th, 173 were at Saltend
when 16 were also at Spurn and, further upstream, 13 at Broomfleet on the 18th and ten at
Brough Haven on the 22nd. 209 were at Saltend on the 3rd September with 290 there on the
1st October; [the previoius highest count for Yorkshire being 158 at Blacktoft Sands on the
23rd April 1993], Along the coast, 19 flew south at Grimston on the 21st July when ten were
present at Filey Dams. 15 south at Filey on 2nd August with 21 south at Flamborough on that
same date.

Inland, in VC61, a good spring passage was noted at the LDNNR with 19 between the 16th and
18th April then 22 on the 19th; 59 on the 20th; 23 on the 21st and 15 on the 22nd. 16 were there
on the 24th with 47 the following day then 13 on the 27th and five on the 29th. 118 were
present on the 2nd May with 14 on the 5th and 11 on the 20th. [It is considered that all birds
after the 25th April were of the Icelandic race L.l. islandica]. An excellent autumn at TLNR
with nine on 21st to 23rd July; 1 1 on the 5th August and 12 on the 18th. 12 were at North Cave
GP on 1st September.

49

In VC63, excepting Blacktoft Sands, birds were reported from 15 locations. On the 23rd April,
14 flew into Dewsbury SF from the east being seen to depart in the same direction; 12 flew
west over Anglers' CP whilst 17 were at Broomhill Ings, these last birds remaining until the
26th [16 were also at Blacktoft Sands on this date]. 26 were seen to fly south-westerly over
Blackburn Meadows on 10th August.

Recorded, in spring, at seven sites in VC64 between the 15th April and 4th May, usually in
small numbers but 21 at Leventhorpe Hall Pond on 26th April; six over Famham GP on the
20th with four there on the 23rd and eight at Swillington Ings on 1st May. Slightly more
widespread in autumn, though still in small numbers, with the first, at Eccup Res. on 9th July
whilst some stayed for quite long periods, in particular, one to four at Swillington Ings between
25th August and 23rd September. Seven were at this location on 24th October. In VC65, 16
were on riverside pools at Wensley on the 27th April and 22 at Marfield NR on 1st May. Up to
12 were at Marfield NR in August whilst one to three were occasionally at Stapleton; Pallet
Hill and Bolton-on-Swale.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lupponica

Passage migrant and winter visitor; occasionally in summer.

Numbers reported during the winter months at Spurn were larger than usual with monthly
maxima of 139 in January; 90. February then 72 in March. Only small numbers were present
during April though 274 flew to the east on the 27th after which 130 were reported on the
Humber on 1st May. There was an increase in numbers in June to 1 16 on the 10th and then 250
on the 16th continuing to increase slowly to give 350 by the end ot July and 670 in August. A
further increase through September resulted in a record count for that location of 1 1 1 8 on the
5th October thereafter a rapid decrease with only 30 to 40 reported during November and
December. Further upstream, along the Humber, 1 1 80 were at Sunk Island on the 1 7th
February and 220 on the 21st December. 15 at Brough Haven on 28th September with 12 on
the 15th November. Four were at Blacktoft Sands on 13th October with birds recorded there
on a further six days. The South Tees area had up to 265 in January; 70 in March; 35 in October
and 52 in December. Elsewhere along the coast up to 14 were at Coatham Sands/Redcar in
February; 11 in Cornelian Bay [Scarborough], on 1st December. Coastal passage was almost
non-existent with 14 past Flamborough on the 10th July as the peak count. 1 7 flew over Filey
Dams on 29th December otherwise all inland records in VC61 came from the LDNNR with
seven on the 20th April and singles on a further six days. The only inland occurrence in VC62
came from Wykeham Lakes with singles on the 29th July and 10th August.

A total of some 30 records from VC63, including Blacktoft Sands, usually ot one or two birds,
in all months excepting February. Three were at Southfield Res. on the 1st August whilst the
bird at the RVCP on 1st January was the first mid-winter record for the Sheffield area. The
remains of one was found at a Peregrine larder near Halifax on 26th April. A very poor year for
this species in VC64 with only three records; singles at Skelton Lake on the 28th April and
Eccup Res. on the 15th September with two there on the 27th. In VC65, one was seen
occasionally, with the Curlew flock, at Bolton-on-Swale whilst singles were at Nosterfield GP
on the 12th and 17th March and at Scorton on 13th July.

Whimbrel Numenius plmeopus

Spring and autumn passage migrant.

The first of the year was at Edderthorpe on the 30th March followed by singles at Flamborough
on the 3rd April and Spurn on the 7th. Generally numbers in spring were small, usually less
than 15, but 26 were at Sunk Island on the 21st April with 23 at Spurn on the 1 4th May whilst
16 at Spaldington on the 24th April remained there until the 11th May. The LDNNR roost held
very large numbers starting with eight on the 20th April then 49 on the 2 1st; 77 on the 24th, 93
on the 25th with 107 on the 29th and 130 on the 30th. The peak count was reported on the 2nd
May with 227 present [a Reserve record and a spring record for Yorkshire]; 167 were recorded
the following day then 112 on the 4th decreasing to 23 on the 9th with the last roosting bird
seen on the 1 8th though three were there on the 24th and one on the 31st. Further inland, small
numbers were reported from VC63 with the maximum being 13 at the Shoulder o’ Mutton

50

floods [Thome Moors], on the 19th May whilst ten over Ripon Parks [VC64], was the highest
count from that area.

Autumn passage along the coast commenced in mid-July although one flew south at
Flamborough on the 29th June. During the latter part of July, 17 were seen at Flamborough on
the 20th with 21 on the 28th whilst Spurn had 53 to the south on the 30th and 38 on the 31st
plus 40 in from the east there on the 25th and 30 from the east on the 28th. In August, 6 1 passed
Spurn on the 1st; 21 went south at Long Nab on the 8th whilst 86 were reported from Spurn on
the 10th when 54 passed Flamborough. 31 south at Filey on the 11th with 27 at Cowbar that
same day; 27 at South Gare on the 14th with 30 there on the 24th when 16 passed
Flamborough. 27 at South Gare on 2nd September and 18 at Spurn, no doubt being the 18 seen
at Filey that same day, were the only counts of note that month. Along the coast, stragglers were
reported at Flamborough on the 28th September; one at Spurn daily between the 2nd and 8th
October and one there on the 18th December [the latest for Yorkshire being one at the same
location on 19th/20th December 1992].

Away from the coast, 22 were seen at North Ferriby on 28th July whilst at the LDNNR small
numbers were recorded quite frequently during the latter part of July, however, a flock of 141
seen at dawn at Thornton Ellers were thought to have roosted there. Small numbers were also
noted occasionally, at the LDNNR, during August but 14 were reported on the 5th with ten on
the 16th. No inland records were received from VC62 and only small parties were reported
from VC63 with maxima being 15 over Blacktoft Sands on the 8th August; seven over
Doncaster on the 1 0th and ten south at Wintersett Res. on the 23rd. Birds, chiefly singles, were
reported from 1 1 sites in VC64 whilst in VC65 one or two were occasionally reported from
Bolton-on-Swale and Nosterfield GP.

Curlew Numenius arquala

Common passage migrant and winter visitor; breeds on moors

On the upland areas of VC63 good numbers were reported breeding to the west of Barnsley;
Huddersfield; Halifax and Sheffield with a similar situation reported from the higher ground of
both VC64 and VC65. On the lowland areas to the east of Sheffield, only one pair was found
but, in the Doncaster area, birds were reported breeding at six sites with pairs also at Anglers’
CP and Cawthome in the Barnsley area. Stated as "widespread" as a breeding bird in VC64
though, in VC65, no comments were received. Several pairs were observed displaying along
the Vale of Pickering [VC62], whilst no details were received from VC61 excepting the
LDNNR where 47 pairs held territory on adjacent arable land by the end of March whilst, in
May, some 1 36 pairs were located on. or adjacent to, the Reserve.

Was present at Spurn throughout the year although only October, with a peak of 147 and
November, maximum 145, reported in excess of 100 birds. Along the Humber, at Sunk Island,
530 were recorded on 17th February; 1700 on 30th August then 1200 between the 7th and 28th
September with 650 on 26th October. Brough Haven held 700 on 28th July; 800 during late
August then 150 on 10th October and 600 on the 29th December. At Blacktoft Sands, on the
confluence of the Trent and Ouse, 141 on 6th July and 301 the following day would, no doubt,
be passage birds moving west whilst other peaks there were 20 on the 11th February and 45 on
the 25th June.

Inland, in VC61, small numbers were reported during the early months though passage flocks
were repotted from late February to early April, at the LDNNR, with 121 north on the 4th
March; 310 on the 13th then 89 on the 14th; 317 on the 26th; 270 on the 28th and 245 on the
30th with 245 on the 1st April and 267 on the 6th. Smaller numbers, generally, in autumn, with
peaks of 165 on 22nd September whilst a southerly movement during the last week of this
month gave a total of 495 through the Reserve. Numbers varied in the last three months,
usually only small parties but 103 on 3rd December then 150 from the 1 1th with an
unprecedented influx on the 16th giving a total of 872 at Wheldrake Ings declining to 60 by the
end of the month.

The wintering flock at BlaxtonAVroot [VC63], held between 72 and 76 from January to early
March and, in the latter months, 65 to 70. Parties were reported from this VC returning to
breeding sites with larger counts of 60 at Thornton Moor Res. on 17th March and 120 at

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Walshaw Dean on the 23rd.

During winter, in VC64, 150 were at Burley-in-Wharfedale on 1 3th January whilst 100 to 200
were in the Otley/Denton area throughout January and February peaking at 250 on 24th
February. Pre-breeding flocks reported were 170+ at Otley GP [including an all white bird] and
97 at Gouthwaite Res. on 19th March. Post-breeding gatherings included 150 to 200 on
Ashwith Moor on 7th July; 164 at Reva Res. on 4th September; 200 at Denton Hall on 31st
October and then, in winter, 250 in the Burley-in-Wharfedale area on 24th December. The
largest gatherings reported from VC65 were 356 at Bolton-on-Swale on 24th February and 391
on 20th October whilst 133 were at Nosterfield GP on 17th March.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythrvpus

Passage migrant; scarce in spring, more numerous in autumn; occasionally over-winters.
One was occasionally present at Blacktoft Sands during the period January to mid-April with
singles at Broomhill Ings on 22nd February and at Spurn on the 19th March. Reported from
several locations during April with singles at Cudworth on the 2nd; Spurn and Wintersett Res.
on the 4th; Broomhill Ings on the 6th; Cromer Point on the 16th; TLNR on the 17th then at
Wheldrake Ings on the 23rd with the same bird or another there on the 26th/27 and finally at
Filey Dams from the 25th until the 3rd May. One was at Nosterfield GP on 1st May with
singles on four days during that month at Spurn whilst one was there on the 28th June.

In autumn, one to three almost daily at Blacktoft Sands until late August but six there on the
30th. Six were at Lindley Wood Res. on the 25th with birds present then until the 12th
September peaking at eight on the 1st. Spurn had one regularly throughout July from the 6th
then one or two during August. Singles were also reported in July at Filey Dams, on the 3rd;
Ripon Parks on the 1 3th and Brough Airfield on the 25th. In August, excepting Blacktoft
Sands, up to two were recorded daily at Spurn with singles on four days in the late month at
TLNR but two there on the 27th; two at Wheldrake Ings on the 7th with singles on the
13th/ 14th. Two at Filey on the 24th one of which remained to the 29th. Two were at Broomhill
Ings from the 23rd to 27th and singles at Eccup Res. on the 14th; Grimston on the 23rd; Pulfin
Bog on the 24th; Frickley on the 27th and at Swillington Ings on the 31st. Single birds were
reported on many occasions from Sunk Island between the 3rd August and the 1st November.
Varying numbers were reported from Blacktoft Sands during September with maxima of 17 on
both the 19th and 25th. Four were at Haverfield Quarry on the 1st whilst three were at TLNR
between the 2nd and 4th with two there on the 8th. One or two were at Spurn all month with
three on the 8th whilst two were at Southfield Res. on the 4th and one or two at Swillington
Ings to the 11th. Single birds were also reported from Staveley NR on the 8th and Brough
Haven on the 28th and 30th. Lesser numbers during October though up to five were at
Blacktoft Sands; up to two occasionally at Spurn and two at Sunk Island from the 4th to the
6th whilst singles were reported from Melbourne between the 4th and 6th and at TLNR on the
10th. Three at Faxfleet on 2nd November with up to three occasionally at Blacktoft Sands and
singles at Spurn on the 2nd and 17th. One was at BLNR on the 9th December.

Redshank Tringa totanus

Passage migrant and winter visitor; breeds though possibly in declining numbers.

There were no records of breeding received from the Humber estuary with the only occurrences
in VC61 coming from the LDNNR where a record 250 pairs were estimated to have been
present on, or adjacent to, the Reserve; success was said to have been good. The only indication
of breeding in VC62 was of two young seen at Lockwood Beck Res. In VC63, six pairs were
present at Blacktoft Sands however no further details were forthcoming. Elsewhere, in this VC,
there was breeding evidence at four sites in the Bradford area, at tive in the Halifax area, three
in the Huddersfield area and two to the south-east of Sheffield [SK58], Further comments were
received from the Barnsley area where low water levels at lowland sites was cited as a cause
for a 70% reduction on the 1995 season with only six or seven young reared from 17 pairs. The
Doncaster area received breeding records from only four sites and whilst it is known some
suitable areas held birds, but were not reported, it was considered a very obvious decline had
occurred from the 26 pairs found during the 1994 census. A similar situation in VC64 where

52

breeding was recorded at 1 1 sites and was considered to be declining in some upland areas. No
comments were received from VC65.

Reported daily at Spurn with monthly maxima of: January, 880; February, 1070; March, 600;
April, 1400; May, 120 and June, 35. 60 on 2nd July increased to 400 on the 17th and 1200 on
the 27th then, in August, an all-time record count of 3640 on the 1 8th, thereafter, monthly
maxima were; September, 3000; October, 1800; November. 1300 and December, 1000. Further
along the Humber, Sunk Island had 180 on 20th April with 1 140 on 7th September; 430 on 1 1th
October and 210 on the 1st November. Along the coast, numbers were small, excepting on
passage, with 83 in January being the best count at Filey; 101 were between Whitby and
Saltwick Nab on 24th January; 200 near Jackson's Bay on 2nd January and, on the South Tees,
the peak was 256 in April. Coastal passage was relatively light at Spurn with 200 on 21st July
and 103 on 24th August whilst, at Grimston, 237 passed south on the 21st July when a record
count of 562 passed Flamborough. Other large numbers at Flamborough were 165 on 18th
August with 1 58 on the 24th and 1 5 1 on the 26th. 44 at Filey on the 24th August was the rather
low peak there.

Away from the coast, the LDNNR reported 172 on 20th January; 63 on 25th February; 447 on
the 30th March and 459 [Reserve record] on the 6th April. During the latter months numbers
were low until December when 44 were present on the 7th increasing to 122 on the 26th with
80 at the year’s end. Elsewhere, in VC61, up to 47 were present at Pulfin Bog during the first
week of January whilst nearby TLNR had up to 26 during the first three months but fewer
during the latter months when the peak was 13 on the 29th November.

The largest numbers in VC63 were recorded at Black to ft Sands were maxima were 45 on 1 7th
July; 43 on 3 1 st August; 72 on 1 3th September with 82 on the 1 6th thereafter decreasing to ten
in December. Maxima in this VC, away from Blacktoft. were 28 at Went Ings on 24th
December; 20 at Wintersett Res. on 24th March and 18 at Broomhill Ings on the 27th April.
Few were reported during the early months in VC64 with smaller than usual numbers in the
Swillington area. Spring passage occurred at all the usual sites but the peak count was only 13
at Otley GP on 7th April whilst this species was even more scarce during the latter months than
during the early period. Peak counts in VC65 came from Nosterfield GP where up to 22 were
present in September with up to 40 in October.

Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Passage migrant more numerous in autumn; has over-wintered.

Two were at Wheldrake Ings on the 13th January with singles at Storwood on 28th February
and Wheldrake Ings on the 23rd March. The first migrants were noted on the 13th April with
single birds at Broomhill Ings; North Duffield Carrs and Pugney’s CP then at Aughton on the
18th and Wheldrake Ings and Spurn on the 19th. During late April and May birds were
widespread, albeit it generally one to three at all locations but up to four were at Sunk Island
on occasions between the 21st April and 22nd May; five at Spurn on the 24th April; four at
Broomhill Ings on 7th May and six at Blacktoft Sands on the 15th.

Many locations reported a good autumn with birds present from early July. Up to ten were
reported from some 40 locations with between 15 and 28 at several. The highest counts were
of up to eight at Blacktoft Sands to mid-July then between 1 1 and 17 throughout the remainder
of that month, peaking on the 27th. At least ten were present in August with 20 on the 23rd then
up to ten in September whilst 1 1 were at Broomhill Ings on the 26th and 28th August. In VC64.
15 were in the Skelton Lake/Swillington Ings area on 25th August with 19 on the 4th
September. Haverfield Quarry [VC6I ], held large numbers, pushed off the Humber at high tide,
with 28 on 28th July then 24 on 1st August and 25 on the 1st September. The LDNNR had 1 1
between the 1 0th and 13th July and 24 on both the 14th and 24th August whilst Spurn reported
a maximum of 14 on 28th August. TLNR recorded birds almost daily from 4th August to the
end of September with peaks of ten on 19th August; 1 1 on the 21st; 11 on the 17th then 12 on
the 28th with 14 on the following day whilst, in September, 1 1 were present on the 15th. The
peak count from VC65 was 12 at Marfield NR on the 23rd August. Numbers decreased from
mid-September with only small counts reported during October when seven at Sunk Island on
the 5th and three at TLNR on the 1st were the maxima. The last birds reported were singles at

53

Flamborough; Spurn and Ingbirchworth on the 26th October; Swillington Ings on the 29th and
Brough Haven on 5th November.

Small numbers occasionally noted on coastal passage with five south at Whitby on 12th August
and three at Flamborough on the 17th September.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Accidental from North America; five records, in 1973; 1978; 1982; 1986 and 1988.

An adult was present at Head Farm Pond [Flamborough], on 23rd May. (AMA). Although this
record has not been submitted to the BBRC full details of the record plus a photograph of the
bird appear in the 1996 Flamborough Bird Report.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus

Passage migrant more numerous in autumn; small numbers over-winter.

Remains a scarce bird during the winter months throughout the east of the county with no
records from VC62 and, from VC61, only reported at, and in the vicinity of, the LDNNR and
TLNR. The former location had up to four along the Melbourne/Bielby areas of the Pocklingon
Canal and associated becks whilst singles were reported at Bank Island on 7th January and at
Ellerton on 29th February. At TLNR, one on 7th January with another on the I4th then two on
the 27th after which up to two were seen occasionally between the 8th February and 24th
March.

Quite widespread in VC63 being reported at some 20 locations during January and February,
usually one or two birds at each but three at one location in January whilst three were also at
another location in March. In VC64, birds were recorded from the Knostrop SF/Skelton Lake
area between January and April; at Lindley Wood Res and two further, unnamed sites, in
January.

Spring passage at all locations was generally light with, in VC61, a maxima of only three at
TLNR, on 21st April and even less in VC62 where no site reported more than a single bird. A
similar situation existed in VC63 where birds were scarcer than during the early months with
one to three birds at some ten locations whilst the only comment from VC64 was of light spring
passage at a few sites.

Autumn passage commenced in mid-June though there was a single at TLNR on the 7th. Birds
in this month were also reported from Blacktoft Sands; Spurn; Sprotbrough Flash: Thorpe
Marsh and Broomhill Ings with up to two at Thorpe Marsh; five at Broomhill Ings and eight at
TLNR. Widespread in July with TLNR and Broomhill Ings having good numbers all month:
maxima at the former being 15 on the 13th and 20 on the 31st whilst the latter location held 20
on a regular basis with 23 on the 27th. In August up to 26 were reported from Broomhill Ings
during the month; the peak occurring on the 1 3th, with 24 at Blacktoft Sands on the 24th as the
peak count there whilst 17 were also reported on three other days. Elsewhere, in VC63, maxima
were seven at Denaby Ings on the 24th; six at Thorpe Marsh on the 16th and tive on Hattield
Moors on the 20th. Nine at Swillington Ings on the 6th was the maximum reported from VC64
whilst in VC61, 23 were reported from the Melbourne/Bielby area of the LDNNR on the 20th;
between 15 and 20 were regularly recorded at TLNR with higher counts of 28 on the 7th; 30
on the 11th; 28 on the 14th then 25 on the 22nd decreasing to nine by the end of the month.
Filey had a peak count ol 14 on 26th August. Numbers fell at all locations during September
although an influx, at TLNR. brought 18 on the 3rd but by mid-month only four to seven were
present and, apart from seven on the 27th, only one or two were seen towards the month s end.
Five were at Sunk Island on the 15th with six there the following day. In VC63 the peak was
12 at Broomhill Ings on the 6th with four at Treeton Dyke on the 12th with no other site
reporting more than three birds.

Few reported during October though the LDNNR, at Melbourne/Bielby, held ten on the 1st
with nine between the 2nd and 9th then six from the 10th to the 14th. Nowhere else reporting
more than two birds this month. Not so widespread during November/Decembet as during the
early months though of similar distribution. The Melbourne area of the LDNNR held up to four
during both months whilst, in VC63, one to three were at Broomhill Ings in November with
two in December whilst Thorpe Marsh had three in November; two remaining into December.

54

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Spring and autumn passage migrant.

The first of the year were singles at Barmsby Marsh and Spurn, both on the 21st April; the
Spurn bird remaining to the following day then, on the 23rd, at Blacktoft Sands; on the 28th at
Nosterfield GP, remaining to the 6th May, and on the 29th at Aughton. During May, single birds
were reported occasionally from the LDNNR; Blacktoft Sands; TLNR; Ellerholme; Hatfield
Moors; Eecup Res.; Filey Dams; Wykeham Lakes; Coatham Marsh; Flamborough; Pulfin Bog;
Sunk Island and Bolton-on-Swale. Two were at Skelton Lake from the 6th to the 1 1th whilst
four were at Broomhill Ings on the 5th.

Only two records in June, both singles, at Staveley NR on the 19th and Denaby Ings on the
22nd whilst, in July, singles were reported from North Cave GP on the 5th then Wheldrake Ings
on the 6th with another there between the 1 9th and 27th.

An influx occurred during August with birds daily at Blacktoft Sands from the 6th with a
maxima of 11 on the 13th and six the following day. The LDNNR also recorded many birds
with two on the 4th; four between the 5th and 7th then five on the 8th; seven on the 9th with
eight from the 1 1th to 13th after which up to five remained to the 20th then three on the 21st
being the last. The only other locations to report more than one bird were Long Nab where five
flew south on the 27th; Filey Dams with two on the 10th/l 1th and TLNR where two or three
were present between the 15th and 24th with four on the 25th.

Few lingered into September with single birds at Dewsbury SF; Ingbirchworth Res.; Ringstone
Edge Res.; Blacktoft Sands; TLNR; John o’ Gaunts’ Res.; Swillington Ings and Chelker Res.
where the last of the year, on the 24th, was recorded.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hyperleucos

Widespread summer visitor breeding in the north and west; passage migrant elsewhere.

The first of the year was an early bird at Swillington Ings on the 13th March with the next
reported on the 30th/31st, at Pugney’s CP, though the bulk of locations recorded their first
about the 10th April. Maxima reported during spring passage were 16 at Whiteholme Res. on
the 14th May; 1 1 at Filey Dams on the 19th; nine at Burton Riggs GP on the 6th and nine at
TLNR on the 1 1th.

Breeding was widespread in VC63 with pairs reported from most reservoirs in the
Bradford/Halifax area; from some 13 sites, mostly upland, in the Huddersfield area; from about
six sites in the Barnsley area [all reservoirs]; three in the Doncaster area but at only one in the
Sheffield area where two territories were located at Redmires Res. [compared to some 60 in the
Derbyshire part of the Sheffield areaj. Widespread breeding was reported from VC64 though
no further details were reported whilst no comment was received from VC65.

Numbers during autumn passage were larger than in spring with maxima, all in August, being;
40 to 50 at Lockwood Beck Res. on the 27th; 27 at Ruswarp Carrs also on the 27th; 17 at
Margrove Ponds on the 7th; 13 at Pulfin Bog on the 12th whilst 13 were also reported from
Grimwith Res. [though no date was given]; 12 at Wheldrake Ings on the 28th and 12 at TLNR
on the 1 1th increasing to 22 by the 15th then 18 on the 20th and 17 on the 26th.

The last of the year were singles at Eccup Res. on 13th September; Otley GP on the 15th; Spurn
on the 19th; Firsby Park on the 27th then Sprotbrough Flash on the 1st October and, finally,
two on Hatfield Moors on the 4th.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Passage migrant and winter visitor; small numbers occasionally summer.

The monthly maxima at Spurn were; January, 45; February, 69; March, 96; April, 108; May,
50; June, 78; July, 140; August, 248; September, 150; October, 191; November. 89 and
December. 50. Present all year at Filey with a peak of 58 in October and during all months at
Flamborough where numbers at both ends of the year were said to be low. The early peak
counts at this last location being 46 on 17th February and 29 on 31st March after which a slight
spring build-up was noted with maxima of 51 on 4th April and 46 on the 27th. Peak counts
during the latter months were 63 on 3rd August with 109 on the 24th and 111 on the 27th
thereafter 97 on 28th September and 28 on the 12th October with ten on 13th November as the

55

highest wintering total. Elsewhere, along the coast, 60 were in Jacksons Bay on 1st January;
up to 89 during January in the Coatham Sands/Redcar area with up to 82 there in April. 130
were counted between Whitby and Saltwick Nab on 5th January with 123 there on the 24th.
Small numbers were occasionally reported along the Humber with a maximum of 18 at Sunk
Island on the 12th May whilst Brough Haven held 1 1 on the 22nd August and six on the 7th
September. Further upstream, at Blacktoft Sands, on the Ouse, one or two were reported on six
days between the 7th May and the 6th August. Recorded at seven freshwater locations in VC63,
usually singles but two at Broomhill Flash on 23rd March; two at the RVCP on the 22nd April
and five at Southfield Res. on the 18th August with three there on the 28th. In VC64 was
reported from two locations, all in the early winter/spring, with singles at Famham GP on
17th/ 18th February and from the 1st to 3rd May and at Swillington lngs on 23rd April and 21st
May. Four were at Swillington lngs on 18th April, one of which remained to the 20th. The only
record from VC65 came from Bellflask Quarry where singles were present on the I st/2nd May
and the 14th. No records from inland in VC62 whilst few were reported in VC61 where birds
were reported from Wheldrake lngs on 24th March and 18th December, Filey Dams on 1 1th
January and from TLNR with one on the 7th August; three on the 15th and one again on the
19th.

Coastal passage was uneventful with 103 at Spurn on the 24th August and 20 at Grimston on
the 21st July as the only records of note.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus

Very scarce passage migrant ; predominately in autumn.

A single juvenile flew south off Flamborough on 23rd August (DB: PAL) whilst a juvenile was
off South Gate on the 29th (WIB)

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius

Scarce passage migrant; usually in autumn; very scarce in winter and spring.

Single birds were recorded at Flamborough on the 8th January; at South Gare from the 27th to
29th and Flamborough on the 30th. One. on the sea, off Hornsea on 6th April whilst, during the
latter months, birds were recorded from Flamborough on the 10th September and 20th October
with two on the 23rd then one at Filey on the 29th with another there on the 4th November.

Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus

Autumnal passage migrant; scarce in spring; occasionally in summer.

One was seen at Spurn on the unusual date of 20th February; the first at that location in this
month whilst during spring only Flamborough reported birds with singles on the 4th May, 16th
and 30th June.

In July, one was at Spurn on the 25th whilst two passed Flamborough on the 31st. A few more
were recorded in August with a total of 1 6 at Flamborough consisting of one or two on 1 1 dates
plus three on the 31st. Singles were reported off Whitby on the 1st and 14th with five south at
Whitestone Point on the 29th whilst Spurn had one on the 26th and two on the 31st. Seven were
noted off Filey during this month though no dates were reported; likewise the single off Long
Nab and the occasional bird off Grimston.

45 passed Flamborough in September including five on the 7th and 10th; seven on the 11th and
six on the 19th. Spurn had singles on four days between the 1st and 14th plus two on the 10th
on which date seven were reported passing Staithes Nab. One flew north at Whitby on the 8th
with two north at Whitestone Point the following day then nine flew south at South Gare on
the 1 2th when two also passed Grimston with four north off Hornsea on the 1 3th. Flamborough
reported up to four on eight dates during October plus, on the 29th, as a consequence of a
northerly gale 119 mainly juveniles, were counted moving southwards; this movement not
being noted elsewhere with the exception of two birds seen at Filey. November was a poor
month with only 23 birds at Flamborough including five on the 11th and four on the 27th.
Elsewhere, three were off South Gare on the 12th; two at Spurn on the 10th and singles at
Whitby on the 13th and both Spurn and Staithes on the 20th. December saw more birds than
usual, particularly at Spurn, with two there on the 1st; six on the 19th then singles on the 20th

56

and 31st whilst Flamborough had singles on the 1st and 24th.

Away from the coast, one was reported along the Humber, at Sunk Island, on 5th October
whilst, inland, one, a juvenile, was atTLNR on the 16th; 17th and 24th November.

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus

Passage migrant; common in autumn; scarce in spring; occasionally in summer
Singles were noted at Flamborough on the 1st and 13th April and at Spurn on the 19th and 29th
whilst two were at Flamborough on this last date. One or two were occasionally seen at Spurn
during May with two at Long Nab on the 10th whilst a total of ten passed Flamborough during
this month including three on the 10th. Sightings became more regular in June with
Flamborough recording five on both the 15th and 23rd plus ten on the 22nd. Three were at
Spurn on the 22nd whilst Filey recorded their first bird on the 19th.

Slightly more widespread in July though nowhere were any numbers reported with maxima
being eight on the 21st and 12 on the 26th, at Flamborough, and, at Spurn, 20 on the 25th.
August was the peak month at Flamborough where a total of 1259 birds passed; the best days
being the 14th when 88 were reported; 24th with 170; 28th with 123 and the 29th when 153
were counted. On this last day, the 29th, 182 were recorded at Spurn; 24 at Hornsea; 182 at
Filey; 39 at Scarborough; 30 at Staithes and 42 at Whitestone Point. During this month Spurn
also reported 5 1 on the 11th with up to 70 daily at the end of the month.

September was also an unremarkable month with only 875 counted off Flamborough where
maxima were 1 10 on the 1st and 104 on the 12th. The peak count at Filey was 180 on the 12th
which was also the best day at Spurn when 172 were recorded with 64 passing Long Nab that
same day. Other days of passage reported were the 8th when 25 passed Long Nab and 52,
Spurn; the 9th with 40 at Spurn, 24 south off Scarborough and 37 south at Grimston whilst on
the 10th; 100 flew south at Staithes then, on the 13lh, 34 went south at Grimston. 63 were noted
off Flamborough during October with up to ten on 1 1 dates plus 27 on the 5th when ten were
seen at Spurn. November saw very few birds with one or two on four dates at Flamborough
plus four on the 13th; one or two on four dates at Spurn up to the 19th; six south at Scarborough
on the I Ith with singles at Filey on the 12th; Whitby on the 13th and Staithes on the 20th.
December saw singles on the 24th at Flamborough; at both Filey and Hornsea on the 30th and
at Spurn the following day.

Inland; two adults and an immature flew west over Whiteholme Res. on the 26th August and a
light-phased individual, considered by plumage to be a third-year bird, was at Southfield Res.
on the 30th September.

Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus

Migrant; uncommon in autumn; scarce during other periods

In comparison to some recent years not a particularly outstanding one with Flamborough
having a total of 31 birds; Spurn, nine; Filey, nine and Grimston, eight. The first to be reported
were single adults off Flamborough on the 2nd; 4th and 11th August with the first juvenile there
on the 24th. An adult passed south off Hornsea on the 13th whilst the first bird to be reported
at Spurn was an unaged individual on the 25th. An adult and two immatures were off
Flamborough on the 28th with an adult there the following day when two unaged birds flew
south at Scarborough and one off Hornsea. September produced the bulk of the records with,
at Flamborough. an adult on the 3rd and a juvenile on the 4th. On the 5th, five adults flew over
the land behind Filey Brigg, a juvenile and immature passed Flamborough and a juvenile at
Spurn. On the 8th a juvenile spent some time off Filey whilst an adult and three juveniles flew
south at Spurn. The 9th saw a juvenile off Marske; an immature south at Whitestone Point; an
adult and juvenile at Filey; an immature plus two juveniles at Flamborough; seven juveniles
south off Grimston and an adult to the south at Spurn. The following day a juvenile was
recorded at Cowbar/Staithes then, on the 1 1 th, an adult passed Flamborough. Single, unaged,
birds passed both Grimston and Withernsea on the 12th with an adult to the north off Spurn and
another off Filey that same day. On the 13th, an adult and two juveniles passed Flamborough;
an adult to the south at Spurn whilst unaged individuals passed both Long Nab and Hornsea
with, the following day, a juvenile at Flamborough then, on the 18th, an adult was reported

57

from that last location. On the 21st, two unaged birds were seen off Long Nab after which the
only birds reported were from Flamborough where an unaged individual was recorded on the
28th. Birds were reported on four dates in October with an adult on the 3rd; four juveniles on
the 5th; an unaged bird on the 6th and, finally, an adult and two juveniles on the 29th.

Great Skua Catharacta skua

Passage migrant ; mainly in autumn with smaller numbers at other periods.

As with the other skuas numbers recorded were well below the average of recent years. Singles
were observed, in January, at Flamborough on the 5th and, at Filey, on three dates with four
there on the 29th. Singles were then reported at Flamborough on the 4th February; 1st March
and the 29th April. Spring passage was very light with two at Flamborough on both the 4th and
18th May; singles at Spurn on the 10th and 17th and at South Gare on the 19th. A total of 30
were reported at Flamborough during June with five on both the 16th and 22nd plus 11 on the
23rd; Spurn had one on the 21st with five the following day whilst Filey had but a solitary bird
that month. Lesser numbers at Flamborough during July where a total of 24 were recorded
comprising of one to three on 14 dates; Filey recorded three individuals whilst Spurn had
singles on the 16th and 24th.

In August 244 were recorded at Flamborough with peak counts of 27 on the 14th; 32 on the
29th and 41 on the 31st. Elsewhere, during this month, peaks were 20 off Cowbar/Staithes on
the 9th; 13 at Spurn on the 29th with 12 on the 30th then 13 the following day whilst Filey had
eight moving north and 50 south on the 29th when 16 were also reported at Saltburn.
September was stated as the best month at Flamborough with 278 reported including 31 on the
7th; 28 on the 9th and 32 on the 1 3th. Records from other locations were 2 1 at Whitestone Point
on the 9th; 50 off Staithes on the 10th; 13 south at Grimston on the 13th whilst up to nine were
reported regularly from Spurn until the 20th though ten were there on the 12th with 14 on the
13th thereafter only small numbers were recorded excepting 16 on the 5th October and ten on
the 12th November. Few were reported from Filey during October and November with the last
bird being seen there on the 12th November. Larger numbers were, however, reported from
Flamborough where the peaks were 25 on both the 5th and 6th October and 26 on the 29th. Up
to four were seen here on ten dates in November whilst three passed Staithes on the 20th. The
only December records were two at Hornsea on the 13th with a single there on the 30th whilst
singles were off Flamborough on three dates.

Mediterranean Gull Lams melanocephalus

Increasing visitor during all periods.

Continues to increase in numbers and spread in range. Along the coast. Spurn had two singles
in April; one or two first-summer individuals present in June and July plus a second-summer
bird during the second half of the latter month; two singles were then occasionally reported in
the period September/November. An adult was occasionally present at Easington in August
with two on the 30th plus another on the 12th October, this last bird also being reported at the
BLNR on the 2 1st. Only one bird, an adult on the 1 3th August, was recorded at Hornsea whilst,
at Withernsea, three birds [two adults; one second- winter] remained from 1 995 until early April
then two adults returned in mid-October remaining into 1997. Grimston had three individuals
occasionally in July and one. on the 14th, in October. Flamborough reported an excellent year
with a total of 54 birds recorded. Singles were reported on three days in February /March then,
in April, some evidence of passage was apparent with singles on eight days between the 7th
and 29th but none seen in May whilst singles were only seen on three dates in June/July. Three
birds were seen in August including two on the 31st however 14 were reported in September,
eight singles with two on the 7th; 8th and 15th. October was the peak month with 21 birds; one
or two being reported on ten dales whilst four were present on the 5th with three on the 8th.
Two singles in November being the last here. Filey recorded two singles in February: on the
4th and 21st with another on the 24th June. A juvenile was reported regularly from the 26th
August to the 25th October moulting to first-winter plumage during its stay whilst an adult was
present occasionally between the 1 5th September and early October.

Along the Humber four singles were recorded at Sunk Island on the 8th May; 22nd September;

58

13th and 30th November. The adult at Skeffling, on 8th October, possibly being the Sunk
Island individual. Further west, six adults roosted at Saltend on the 19th September and an
adult was in Hull Docks on the 21st August. Inland, in VC61, an adult was reported from
TLNR on the 24th/25th and 29th March with an immature present on 29th September then an
adult on the 27th October. The LDNNR recorded an adult on 1 1 th January then a second-winter
bird with a first-winter individual on the 20th. An adult was at Wheldrake Ings on the 1 1th and
18th February with a second-winter bird at Bubwith on the 26th. All other records at the
LDNNR came from Wheldrake Ings where an adult was present on the 4lh March and a
second-winter bird on the 5th; 13th; 14th and 17th. Two adults were present on the 18th May
with a second-winter individual on the 1st. Single adults were recorded on the 25th November
and 23rd December with a first-winter bird on the 22nd/23rd and 26th December.

Further north, in VC62, two second-winter birds remained in the Scarborough area from 1995
being seen regularly at Sealby Mills and Seamer Road Mere during January/February then
occasionally in March with the last, a single, on the 29th. An adult was at Sealby Mills on the
2nd April thereafter no birds were seen until the 1 3th August when an adult appeared thereafter
being reported on a further six dates to the year’s end. First-winter birds were recorded at
Burton Riggs GP on 13th October and at Seamer Road Mere on 1st and 31st December. The
regular adult at Saltwick Nab remained from 1995 until late February returning on the 29th July
remaining into 1997 and what may have been this bird was seen at Whitby on 16th July. A
second-winter individual was present at Whitby trom 1995 being last seen on the 31st March
with a juvenile there on the 16th July and a second adult in the area from the 19th November
into 1997. South Gare had an adult regularly between the 1st January and 4th March and again
from the 1 7th July and several dates to the 22nd but then on only three further dates to the end
of the year. Adults were also reported from Saltburn on 1st January; Margrove Ponds on the
8th February whilst first-winter birds were at Marske on the 3rd February; Scaling Dam on the
28th April and 16th September with a second-winter bird at Redcar on the 17th February.

The number of individuals reported in VC63 was impossible to ascertain though, without any
doubt, an increase was evident from most society areas. In the Doncaster area, Southfield Res.
reported more than in previous years with a second-winter bird on the 13th January; an adult
on the 23rd and 29th whilst a first-winter individual was present on the 18th February followed
by an adult from the 27th to 7th March. A second-winter bird there on the 27th March and 4th
April then a first-summer bird on the 23rd May. No more records then until a second-winter
from the 1st to 17th September plus a first-winter on the 16th with a first-winter on the
25th/26th October and adults on the 13th November; 5th and 28th December. Elsewhere in the
Doncaster area, a first-winter bird was at Carr Hill on 14th January; an adult at Levitt Hagg on
1st February whilst, at Broomhill Ings, a first-summer bird on the 17th June and a first-winter
on the 29th and 31st December. The only record from the Sheffield area was a second-winter
individual at Blackburn Meadows on 28th August. Birds were occasionally reported from a
further nine locations during all months excepting July; first-winter individuals being most
widely reported.

An adult at Famham GP [VC64j, on 3rd and 5th March may have been the bird seen at High
Batts NR on the 8th. A second-winter bird was reported at Swinsty Res. from the 1 1th to 13th
February whilst a first-summer was at Staveley NR on the 20th April with a second-summer at
Farnham GPon 23rd May. In the Leeds area, one or two adults were at Halton Moor in January
remaining through to the 26th March; one of these birds, and occasionally both, regularly
visited Eccup Res. being reported on nine dates in January; seven in February and seven in
March whilst a first-winter bird was recorded there on the 23rd February and an adult called at
Mickletown Ings on the 29th February. The second-summer bird [the Famham GP individual]
with a full hood, was at Swillington Ings on 26th August and an adult at Eccup Res. on 3rd;
7 th and 11th December.

The only record from VC65 was of a single adult at Bolton-on-Swale on 21st December.
Franklin’s Gull Laras pipixean

Accidental from North America; three records , all in 1991 possibly concerning the same
bird.

On the 1 3th November, a second-winter individual arrived at TLNR from the south-east, with

59

a party of Great Black-backed Gulls, bathing for some 30 minutes before departing to the
north-west. (TR et al).

Little Gull Lams minutus

Passage migrant; occasionally very large numbers in autumn; small numbers at other
periods.

During the first winter period up to 1 2 were present in Filey Bay with the last being seen on
the 24th February whilst nearby Flamborough had small numbers during January with eight on
the 5th and 7th; four on the 10th and five on the 28th. In VC62, one to three were occasionally
reported along the coast though five were near Whitby on the 25th and 29th January, six off
Redcar on the 2nd February and seven off Marske on 16th March.

Very few were then recorded until July when, from mid-month, small numbers were recorded
at several coastal locations. Totals at Flamborough increased towards the end of that month
with 31 on the 22nd: 63 on the 27th and 40 on the 28th; no other site, however, reported more
than six birds. Numbers at Flamborough remained fairly constant throughout August when
maxima were 52 on 1st; 40 on the 4th and 39 on the 15th. September was the best month at
this location although no large movements occurred; the total count for the month being 1274
birds with peaks of 150 on the 14th; 208 the following day then 151 on the 18th and 141 on
the 22nd. The largest count of the year came on the 21st October with 428 however, excepting
123 the following day, numbers throughout this month were low. Birds were seen up to the 14th
November, in small numbers, with 14 on the 10th as the maximum that month.

Few reported elsewhere, to the north, along the coast where the largest count was 20 at Staithes
on the 11th November with 18 at Ness Point on the 14th August. To the south of Flamborough
between 20 and 200 were quite frequently seen on the sea at Hornsea during the period mid-
August to mid-September, obviously birds from Hornsea Mere where the maximum reported
was 200+ on the 25th August. Grimston recorded 221 on the 28th July whilst Spurn had small
numbers from mid-July with regular passage from mid-August to mid-September peaking with
84 on the 11th August; 46 on 7th September and 54 on the 20th.

Inland, in VC61, singles at TLNR on 27th January and 5th April with 1 1 on 2nd June preceded
a record year when birds, mainly immatures, visited the site arriving, generally, towards the
evening. 16 were present on 10th July though usually up to eight were reported during this
month then, in August, invariably more than ten daily, mostly 20 to 33 but 35 on the 28th.
Counts were similar in September to the 13th with a few stragglers then until the 20th. The
LDNNR had one on 25th January with two adults on the 1st February; one on the 9th April
with another on the 24th. Singles were reported on the 3rd; 4th: 5th and 9th May plus two on
the 26th and, finally, one on the 7th August. Only two single birds were reported inland in
VC62 at Burton Riggs GP on the 4th April and Wykeham Lakes on 3rd September.

Adults at Southfield Res. [VC63], on the 6th/7th and 25th January were the first records at that
site for that month. Slightly more were reported during April/May with four on the 23rd April
whilst two adults were at Potteric Carr on the 1 7th April. Few then until mid-July with ten at
Blacktoft Sands on the 20th and then four at Southfield Res. on 8th September whilst two at
this last location on the 20th December constituted the first record there for that month.
Recorded at more sites than usual in the Sheffield area, however, numbers remained low with
the only spring record being one at Blackburn Meadows on the 30th March. In autumn, two
were at Redmires Res. on 6th; one at Thrybergh CP on the 8th and two at the RVCP on the 20th
September after which one was reported from Blackburn Meadows on the 10th October with
the last bird, a rare December occurrence, being at the RVCP on the 21st.

A first-winter individual was at Gouthwaite Res. on the 7th January otherwise all records from
VC64 came in spring. Immatures were at Famham GP on the 10th: 21st; 26th April and 22nd
May. One at Swillington Ings on the 20th April with a second-summer bird at Leaventhorpe
Ash Ponds on the 3rd May when an adult was at Skelton Lake; an adult was reported at
Staveley NR on the 7th May with another that same day at Farnham GP whilst the last was an
immature at Skelton Lake on the 16th May. No birds were reported from VC65.

60

Sabine’s Gull Larus sabini

Scarce annual au tumnal migrant from the high Arctic; very rare in winter.

A poor to average year with the first, an adult, off Hornsea on 9th August followed by an
juvenile north at Spurn on the 13th. In September all records concerned juveniles at
Flamborough with one on the 3rd; two on the 5th; two on the 10th; one on the 14th then two
on the 19th. An adult at that location on the 21st October was the last of the year along the
coast. An adult was recorded along the Humber at Sands Farm [Cherry Cobb], on the 3rd
December (JMT: PLM) whilst an adult was reported inland at Redmires Res. on the 9th
September. (RDH: AJM).

Correction to the 1994/5 Report: Two birds were recorded at Filey in 1995 [not one] as
follows: an adult on the 29th August and a juvenile on the 29th September.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus

Breeds commonly in colonies; numbers swelled in winter by immigration from Europe.

The only breeding record from VC6I came Irom the LDNNR where an estimated 2000 pairs
were at Wheldrake Ings in May though no details of success were forthcoming. In VC62, a
single pair was reported on a nest at the British Steel Ore Terminal, Redcar. Bred at several
locations in VC63 with 250 pairs at Potteric Carr, the largest number for 20 years, though no
reports of success were received. 90 pairs at Dale Pit Quarry, again no further details; 20 pairs
at Mickletown Ings but all failed; 62 pairs at Pugney's CP, most being abandoned though two
reared five young. Three pairs were at Old Denaby where some young were fledged and was
reported to have nested at Lower Gorple Res, but no further details. “Some pairs attempted" on
Thome Moors without success whilst at Aldwarke SF, where breeding behaviour was noted, an
adult was found dead on a nest.

Breeding occurred at Barden Res [VC64], where 2806 nests were counted on the 30th May; at
Gill Beck. 712 nests and Knostrop SF with 20 nests. Breeding also occurred at Staveley NR
and Famham GP though no details were received from either location. In VC65, breeding was
reported at both Nosterfield GP and Marfield NR though in both cases details of neither
numbers nor success were reported.

Many locations reported large gatherings at times during the year. In VC61, 1000 at the end of
July was the peak count at Spurn whilst at Flamborough the peak fell in October, the only
month to record 1 000+, with 11 ,000 on the 2nd, 1 705 on the 5th and 4 1 85 on the 8th . No counts
were received from the Humber. Inland, TLNR recorded monthly peaks of, in January, 7000;
February, 10,000; March, 12,000; September, 25,000; October, 19,600; November, 7800 and
December, 9000 [the September total occurring on the 29th]. Wheldrake Ings [on the LDNNR],
held a large roost with monthly maxima of 37,500 on 13th January; 29,500 on 1 0th February;
32,500 on 9th March then 8100 on the 6th April. Numbers during September to mid-November
were quite low with most birds moving south to roost on the Humber/Ouse though with the
advent of flooding 5000 were roosting on the reserve by 30th November. Numbers then
increased in December with 7500 on the 3rd and 13,000 on the 21st. The only roost reported
from VC62 was of 1400 at Castle Howard on the 1st March.

Several locations in VC63 reported roosting numbers in excess of 3000 during one, or both,
winter periods. 3000 were at Blackburn Meadows on the 17th January; 5000 at Wintersett Res.
on the 1st and 30th; 4000 fed at Dunsville Tip on the 24th whilst, in February. 3000 were at
Thrybergh CP on the 7th and 10,000 at Pugney's CP on the 8th with 5000 feeding at
Edderthorpe on the 3rd. The only gathering of note in March was of 4600 at Thornton Moor
Res. on the 3rd. During the latter months, 3350 were at Blackmoorfoot Res. on the 14th
October; 5000 at Pugney's CP from the 20th November with 7 1 00 at Thornton Moor Res. on
the 2 1st. In December, 9500 were at Southfield Res. on the 6th; 5000 at Wintersett Res. on the
8th and 3000 at Thrybergh CP on the 29th. Maxima reported from VC64 were 1 1 ,000 at Eccup
Res. in February with 10,000 there in December; 7000 in the Farnham GP/Bar Lane Quarry
area in February whilst 8000 were in that area during December and, at Swinsty Res. 2000 in
January. 15,000 at Bolton-on-Swale on 26th December was the only large count received from
VC65.

61

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis

Rare vagrant from North America; first recorded in 1978; now almost annual.

A single adult at Edderthorpe Flash on 16th February (JCC). A second-year individual was
recorded at Flamborough, flying south, on 1st April (PAL) whilst another adult was recorded
at the RVCP on 18th April (RG:KRG).

Addition to the 1992 Report: A second-winter individual at Langsett Res. on the 19th January
(RDH: KRG)

Common Gull Larus canus

Very scarce breeder; common passage migrant and winter visitor.

There were no reports of breeding this year. As usual the highest counts came from VC61 with
maxima at TLNR of 20,000 on the 14th January; 25.000 on the 26th March and 26,000 on the
14th December whilst up to 15,000 were present in February; 7040 in September; 15.000 in
October and 1 8.200 during November. The LDNNR recorded 1 1 ,300 on 20th January; 7900 on
24th February; 30,000 between the 24th and 26th March then 3950 on 6th April. Very few were
seen here during the summer months and not until the end of November had a roost built up to
1150 with 4700 on 3rd December. Counts along the coast were not large with numbers at the
roost at Selwick's Bay [Flamborough], falling well below that of previous years; peaks
recorded being 1200 on the 12th January and 1380 the following day. 1500 were recorded on
5th February thereafter numbers decreased rapidly to 201 on the 18th then, in March, 176 on
the 1 7th. Spring passage at Flamborough produced 838 on 5th April with 535 on the 8th and
452 on the 20th. Up to 45 were present in June after which numbers were low in July and
August with no more than 26 on any one day. An increase was noted in September with 410
on the 1 5th and 1 1 3 on the 26th; the highest counts occurring in October when 5800 were
recorded on the 2nd with 642 on the 5th. Notable counts during the last two months were 900
on the 6th November; 5250 on the 23rd then, in December, 1800 on the ~nd and 1 100 on the
1 4th With the exceptions of 1 000 at Spurn on the 2 1 st February and 2000 at Filey on 1 3th April
no counts in excess of the 7 1 0 at South Tees, in January, were received from the coast. 700 were
recorded, on the WeBS count, at this last location in February with 398 in December. Inland,
in VC62, numbers at Castle Howard were again good with peaks of 700 on 9th January; 600
on 1st March and 500 on the 27th December.

Gatherings in VC63 were generally average, however, an exceptional year was reported from
the Sheffield area where numbers were well up on previous years. 1400 were at Thornton Moor
Res. on 27th December; 1000 at Southfield Res, on 6th December and 849 at Langsett Res. [an
unprecedented count for that location] on 2nd March. 860 were at Blaekmoorfoot Res. on the
3rd April; 675 at Thornton Moor Res. on the 2nd March and 570 at Wintersett Res. on the 4th
March. Counts at Thrybergh CP were much higher than usual with the total of 197 on 9th
February being exceptional. .

In VC64, flocks of up to 200 were frequently recorded during both winter periods. Higher
counts reported were 5000 at Eccup Res. in both February and December whilst 1000 were at
Swinsty Res on the 20th January. Smaller roosts of 300 were at Swilhngton Ings and Famham
GP in December. The only count reported from VC65 was of 1 500 at Bolton-on-Swale on 1 5th
December.

Birds showing the characteristics of the "Russian" race L.c.heinei were noted at Flamborough
in both winter periods. 21 were recorded in January with ten on the 28th and five on the 29th,
15 in February including ten on the 10th whilst, in March, one or two were seen on five dates
plus six on the 17th with the last on the 18th. During the latter months, one was reported on
the 25th November with a total of 20 in December which included five on the 2 1 st and three
on both the 22nd and 23rd. [See Flamborough Ornithological Group Bird Report; 1 996. pp
69-71],

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus

Very scarce breeder; passage migrant and increasing winter visitor.

A single pair bred at Cowbar whilst an adult was seen over Scarborough town centre
occasionally in July though no evidence of breeding was found.

62

Generally scarce along the coast. Birds of the British race Lf. graellsii were recorded during
all months at Flamborough with monthly peaks, in spring, of 40 in March; 22 in April and 27
in May whilst, in autumn, passage was much lighter than usual peaking earlier, in July rather
than in late August, with 32 in July and 20 in August. Maxima at Spurn were slightly higher
than at Flamborough with up to 20 occasionally from April to June and up to 60 from July to
September wilh a maximum count of 86 on the 28th July. Inland, in the east, the peaks at TLNR
were recorded in spring with 11 on the 21st April and 35 on the 23rd. The LDNNR reported
passage in spring with 18 on 18th March then 57 on the 20th; 61 on the 23rd; 79 on the 28th
with 89 on the 31st and 97 on the 8th April. May produced record numbers with 610 on the
10th falling to 180 by the 31st. 400 were present on the 1 st July; 200+ on the 1 2th August with
270+ on the 30th. 137 were at Breighton Tip on the 23rd October.

Excepting 83 at Blackburn Meadows on 9th January, numbers in the Sheffield area [VC63],
were normal with few until May then up to 200 were at Langsett Res. in July; 405 at Redmires
Res. in August with 100 there in September whilst 2000 were at Langsett Res. on 13th October
and 1000 in November. A similar situation was noted in the Doncaster area where few were
seen until the spring; 65 over Broomhill Ings on 19th May being the peak prior to 150 at Levitt
Hagg Tip in summer. Numbers increased in August with 680 at Southfield Res. on the 6th and
540 at Thorpe Ashfields on the 2 1 st. Up to 500 were in the Levitt Hagg Tip/Sprotbrough Flash
area until late November however, larger counts came from Southfield Res. with 4850 on 25th
September; 5050 on the 1st October declining to 4700 on the 10th then 1700 on the 17th.
Elsewhere, 1621 were reported from Thornton Moor Res. on 20th July and 1117 at
Blackmoorfoot Res. on the 25th September. 825 flew south or south-west over Rod Moor in
two and a half hours on the 29th October.

In VC64, numbers were low until the spring passage when up to 150 were reported at several
locations in March and April. Slightly larger counts were recorded in autumn with 350 at
Skelton Lake on 22nd October and between 100 and 150 at other locations. Peaks recorded in
VC65 were 471 at Nosterfield GP on 18th July with 1200 there in late September whilst 670
were at Scorton on 5th July.

Birds belonging to the races Lf. intermedius or Lf. fuscus, but mainly Lf intermedius , were
reported from many locations with a slight predominance towards the spring period. Some
areas did not give totals but in general numbers were below ten. Flamborough recorded the
highest counts with birds considered to be Lf. intermedius being seen in all months except
November peaking at 1 4 on 1 8th March; 24 on 7th April and 1 1 on 1 0th August. Recently there
has been some doubts as to the occurrence of the Eastern Scandinavian/Russian race Lf. fuscus
in Britain. The only records of birds showing the characteristics of this race were of a single at
Flamborough on the 1 1th April (PAL) and singles at Pulfin Bog on five days in August and
September (DGH).

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

Increasing breeder; migrant and winter visitor.

Bred along the coast from Bridlington northwards however the only counts received were 1 SO-
HO pairs at Hunt Cliff and 330 - 360 pairs at Boulby Cliffs. Inland, a single pair had four eggs
at Barden on 11th May but could not be found at the next gullery count on the 30th.

In the east, counts at Spurn were generally in the region of 200 - 300 though 1 300 were present
on the 21st January with up to 1000 during the first half of April. Movements of "British birds”
La. argenteus were noted at Flamborough in the early months when peaks of 1765 on the 21st
and 1675 on the 28th January; 4643 on the 3rd and 5665 on 5th February then 3100 on the 1st
with 3747 on the 2nd March, were recorded. Smaller numbers were recorded during the
remainder of March with an increase in late April to 1 850 on the 28th then 950 on the 4th May
however, an unseasonal peak of 1825 was recorded on the 23rd June. An influx in September
produced peaks of 1850 on the 8th with 1434 on the 29th then 1945 on 13th October. 2615 on
8th December was the highest count in what was a rather quiet last month. No counts at Filey
exceeded 400 whilst no details were received from the coast further north excepting the Tees
Estuary where 365 on the October WeBS count was the peak, and, at Coatham Sands, with 124
on the January WeBS and 108 in December.

63

Inland, the maxima at TLNR were 5600 on the 13th March and 840 on the 31st December
whilst at the LDNNR, 900 were present on the 27th January; 1070 on 10th February thereafter
numbers were less than 300. Few during the latter months until an influx in December when
200 on the 21st increased to 1900 by the 31st.

No significant records were received from VC62. In VC63, up to 300 were recorded at several
locations during the early months with higher counts of 382 at Broomhill Ings on 24th January;
500 roosting at Wintersett Res. on the 7th and 2000 at Dunsville Tip on the 24th with 695
counted flying north-eastwards over Thome Moors on the 13th January. Only small totals were
recorded until late September/October though nowhere reported more than 100 until November
in which month record numbers were present at Southfield Res. with 5600 on the 12th and
18th; 5400 on the 26th then 2700 on the 6th December. Other locations reporting large numbers
were Sprotbrough Flash with 1 000 between the 1 5th and 18th November; Ardsley Res. with up
to 800 in December; Blackmoorfoot Res., 603 on the 25th December and Thrybergh CP where
435 roosted on the 29th December.

Up to 3000 were at Swillington Ings [VC64], in January falling to 1000 during February/
March. Elsewhere numbers were lower, in some areas down on 1995; maxima being 500-600
at Bar Lane Quarry in January /February and 350 at Famham GP on 3rd February. Numbers, in
the latter months, were low with 400 at Swillington Ings and 200 at Eccup Res. as the maxima.
The only count of note reported from VC65 was 3200 at Bolton-on-Swale in January.

Birds with the characteristics of the nominate, "Northern" race. La. argentatus were recorded
at Flamborough during both winter periods though most were reported during the early months.
Record numbers were recorded in January/February with 243 on the 20lh January and 896 on
the 28th then 1000 on the 3rd February with 1700 on the 5th; 801 on the 10th then falling to
232 on the 24th though 336 were seen on the 2nd March. In the latter months up to 25 were
occasionally recorded in September and October with slightly more during the last two months
when peaks were 132 on the 13th November and 238 on the 8th December.

Birds attributed to the "Yellow-legged” race L.a. cachinnans continue to become more
widespread though still relatively scarce in the east. One or two were reported almost daily
from Spurn during the period mid-June to late August though three were present on the 16th
June and 6th July. One or two occasionally along the Humber and the coast north to Bridlington
whilst singles were reported at Flamborough on 1 1 dates between the 6th March and 15th
October. One at Filey Dams on the 24th May was the first record for the Filey area. Inland, in
VC61. singles were at TLNR on 5 occasions whist one was at Bubwith on the 2nd August.

In the Sheffield area, most of the records of Herring Gulls between July and October were of
this race though rather surprisingly none were in the Yorkshire part of their recording area. The
Doncaster area had singles at Levitt Hagg Tip on 8th January; Thorpe Marsh on the 16th
February and Southfield Res. on 26th March with one at Levitt Hagg Tip on 25th March then
one or two regularly from 13th July to 1st October. Southfield Res. had birds regularly from
18th August to late October with between two and seven present on many dates and a
maximum of 12 on 19th September and 4th October. Singles were also there on the 6th and
22nd November and the 27th December whilst one was at Thorpe Marsh on the 10th
November. Elsewhere, in VC63, two birds were recorded in the Bradford area in January/
February; four in July; three in August; one in September and three, November/December.
Three in the Halifax area in July and three, August/September; one in the Huddersfield area in
March, July and August with six in the period September to November and. lastly, in the
Barnsley area, one in January; March; June; September and October with two in August.

An adult was at Chelker Res. |VC64], on 13th January and an adult at Swinsty Res. on the 14th
and 20th with a second bird on the 21st when another was at Chelker Res. Another adult was
at Chelker Res. on the 1 0th February. Singles were at Swillington Ings on 26th and 28th March;
20th April with two on the 12th May plus one at Skelton Lake on the 26th April. Two adults
were at Gouthwaite Res. on 1 3th August with one at Swillington Ings on the 2nd October and
at Gouthwaite Res. on the 8th December.

A second-year bird was at Nosterfield GP [VC65], on the 9th July whilst an adult was there on
the 18th. An adult was reported from Bolton-on-Swale on the 14th January.

64

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

A contrasting situation along the coast where Flaraborough reported a record year whilst
nearby Filey had a relatively poor one: the status at this latter location being attributed to the
decline of the fishing industry and the lure of inland rubbish tips. Flamborough had a total of
IB sightings; in February, a second-winter bird on the 11th: an adult and two second-winters
on the 16th then a second-winter on the 17th and an adult on the 22nd. A fourth-winter
individual was present on the 10th March then a single first-winter on the 1 1th and 24th whilst
April was the best month of the year with seven sightings; a second-winter on the 6th/7th;
single first-winter; second-winter and fourth-winter individuals on the 8th; a second-summer
bird on the 10th and an adult on the 18th. Scarcer during the latter months with a third-winter
bird on the 27th and 29th October then an adult on the 14th December. Only four birds were
recorded at Filey; an adult on 2nd March then, in April, a third-winter on the 7th; first-winter
on the 10th with another on the 27th. At Spurn, a first-year bird was seen daily between the 5th
and 8th April with another on the 22nd October and an adult on the 8th December. A third-
winter bird present at BLNR on the 7th and 21st December also frequented the area into 1997.
A second-winter individual was at Ness Point on the 30th March with an adult at Marske on
21st April. This species was also scarce in the Scarborough area with possibly only two birds
seen in the early months, an adult on four dates and a first-winter on five dates. No birds were
seen in this area during the latter months.

Inland, single adults were recorded near Guisborough on the 3rd February and at Scaling Dam
on the 10th April on which date another was at Hornsea Mere. Remains a scarce bird at TLNR
where the only record was of a first-winter bird on the 20th January. More numerous along the
LDNNR, with the best showing for ten years, where a third-winter was present on the 6th; 7th;
9th; 11th: 14th and 20th January whilst an adult was there on the 9th and 1 1th plus a first-winter
on the 27th and 29th. Quite frequent, also, in February with a second-winter on the 3rd; 17th;
19th and 26th; an adult on the 5th; 16th and 19th and then a third-winter on the 18th. At least
seven birds were seen in March/April with a first-winter from the 1st to the 13th; two second-
winters on the 4th with singles on the 5th; 6th and 9th.

In VC63, birds, predominately first-winter and second-winter individuals, were recorded from
some 18 locations. With the exception of the Halifax area birds were reported from all society
regions, usually during the early months, with a total of nine in the Barnsley area and four or
five during February near Huddersfield where three or four were present in March. Few were
seen during the latter months with only the Huddersfield; Sheffield and Wakefield areas
reporting birds.

Up to six individuals were recorded from the Bar Lane Quarry/Famham GP area [VC64],
between the 23rd January and the 4th March, most being first-winter individuals though a
third-winter bird was seen on the 1 8th February with adults on the 23rd January and 2nd
February. A first-winter individual was at Hay-a-Park GP on the 23rd January. In the Leeds
area, a first-winter bird was at Swillington Ings on the 6th; 10th and 13th January with two
during the first week of February whilst a third-winter was present on the 1 1th and an adult on
the 14th. A first-winter bird was seen from the 28th of February into March, being present for
most of that month, with a second-winter there on the 24th/25lh March and on the 1st; 2nd and
8th/9th April. A first-winter was at Mickletown Mine on the I st February with a similarly aged
bird at Eccup Res. on the 23rd. No birds were reported from this VC during the latter months.
In VC65, a first-winter bird was at Nosterfield GP on the 25th January and 3rd February with
a second-winter individual on the 31st December whilst, at Bolton-on-Swale, two first-winter
birds were seen on the 6th January and a different individual on the 16th March.

An individual of the race L.g. kumleini was at Famham GP on the 1 7th February (RAH; PVI;
AO'N). [This is still under consideration by BBRC\.

Addition to the 1992 Report: The adult of the race L. g. kumleini at Newsam Green Tip on 5th
January has been accepted by BBRC.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

As with the previous species differing situations were reported from coastal locations with

65

Flamborough continuing their run of poor years whilst nearby Filey had an average to good
one. The former had only 1 1 sightings with a first-winter bird on the 28th January then an adult
and a first-winter on 3rd February followed by an adult on the 5th. Single second-winter
individuals were then observed on the 18th March and 1st April. During the latter months, on
the early date of 16th August, an adult and a second-winter bird flew south then an adult was
reported on the 1st November with a first- winter on the 13th and 24th. Filey recorded a second-
winter bird on the 3rd February with a first-winter on the 18th March. A first-summer
individual was at the Dams on the 18th May then the first of the second winter period, a first-
winter bird on the 27th October followed by others on the 11th November and the 29th
December whilst an adult was reported on the 14th December. Spurn had a first-winter bird fly
south on the 20th January; a second- winter on the 17th; 18th and 24th February with a second-
summer on the 8th; 9th; 13th and 14th April. This last bird may have been the one seen on the
3rd and 4th April at nearby BLNR. Adults were reported on the 14th and 26th October whilst,
in November, a first-winter individual flew south on the 7th and an adult to the same direction
on the 25th. An adult was reported at Grimston on the 8th September. In the Scarborough
district at least four individuals were recorded during the early months; two adults; one first-
winter bird and one second-winter though, only at Cornelian Bay. with two adults on the 13th
January, was more than one bird seen. The first birds of the latter period were not seen until the
1st December when three were recorded; an adult; a first-winter and a second-winter then, on
the 22nd, another first-winter. In the north of VC62. the adult at Whitby remained in the
harbour until 16th April returning on the 10th October remaining into 1997 whilst a first-winter
individual was seen at Ruswarp Carrs on the 30th December. At Dunsdale Tip [Guisborough],
an adult was present on the 24th December with a first-winter bird on the 29th. An adult at
Sunk Island from the 28th September to the 4th October was the only record from the estuary.
Fewer records from VC63 than the previous species with the majority reported during the early
months; only Huddersfield; Barnsley: Sheffield; Doncaster and Wakefield having birds during
the latter months. Some 15 locations reported birds with obviously some interchange of
individuals.

The bulk of records in VC64 were from Swillington Ings where a first-winter individual was
present from the 5th January to 5th February with two birds on three days whilst an adult was
there from the 14th to 25th January with a third-winter bird on 24th February. In March, a first-
winter bird was seen on the 8th; 10th and 15th; a third-winter on the 17th and 19th with a
second-winter from the 20th to 22nd and a third-winter again from the 23rd to 31st plus two
first-winters on the 30th then a first-winter individual on the 7th April with a first-summer from
the 4th to 28th. Elsewhere, a first-winter at Peckfield Pit on the 29th February and two at
Fairburn Ings on the 6th March. During the latter months the only record was of a second-
winter bird at Swillington Ings on the 9th October.

At Nosterfield GP a long staying bird was first seen on the 26th January when in first-winter
plumage, being reported in every month until early December having moulted to second-winter
plumage.

A suspected first-winter Glaucous x Herring Gull hybrid was observed at Flamborough on the
30th November.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus

Passage migrant; winter visitor and non-breeding summer visitor.

Small numbers were reported from Spurn with 50 - 100 being frequently recorded though up
to 150 were present, in October, on the Humber shore. Coastal passage, at Flamborough, during
the first three months gave daily peaks of up to 474 excepting 1551 on the 5th and 721 on the
10th February. In spring and summer maxima reported were 529 on the 23rd June; 630 on the
21 st July and 65 1 on the 3 1 st August. Peaks in September were associated with northerly winds
when 1727 passed on the 8th and 1 122 on the 28th. Maxima in October were 2300 on the 5th
with 3165 on the 12th and 1450 on the 24th. 2909 on the 13th November was the only count
in excess of 1000 during the last two months. Up to 700 were in the Filey area during
September though by the 11th October numbers had fallen to 300. Further north, maxima
reported were 332 at Scalby Mills in November; 900 [an exceptional count] at Ness Point on

66

the 28th August; 380 at Coatham Sands/Redcar in December and 440 at South Tees in January
with 480 in October.

Inland, at TLNR, the monthly maxima were; January, 950; February, 650; March, 400;
September, 440; October. 1040; November 1000 and December 3350, on the 31st. The
LDNNR had 1050 on the 7th; 1300 on the 24th and 1500 on the 27th January then a slight
decrease to 790 on the 1 0th February and 300 on the 26th thereafter never more than 121 until
December when the Wheldrake Ings roost had increased to 1750 by the 3 1st on which date 550
fed at Breighton Tip.

Large counts during the early months, in VC63, were 310 at Southfield Res. on 6th January:
100 at Wintersett Res. on the 7th; 1 94 at Thornton Moor Res. also on the 7th; 270 at Broomhill
Ings on the 27th whilst 300+ flew north-east over Thorne Moors on the 13th. Up to 437
frequented Ardsley Res. during this month. Pugney 's CP regularly held 200 during January and
February. During the latter months 1800 were at Southfield Res. fa location record] on the 1 2th
November with 1000 present on the 18th; c500 were frequently reported from Pugney 's CP
from mid-November through December whilst Ardsley Res. had up to 549 in December. 261
were at Thornton Moor Res. on the 27th December with 277 at Blackmoorfoot Res. on the
29th. The maxima at roosts in VC64 were; 200 at Famham GP in January with 150 there in
December; 200 at Bar Lane Quarry during January/February; 200 in January with 400 in
December at Swillington Ings whilst 50-60 immatures summered in the lower Aire valley. 320
at Scorton Quarry on 6th January was the highest count recorded in VC65.

Kittiwake Rissa tridaetyla

Abundant coastal breeder and passage migrant; scarcer in winter; occasionally inland.

No details were received of breeding numbers on Flamborough Head but assumed to be little
changed. The 1453 pairs on Scarborough Castle headland was, again, an increase [1394 in
1995] whilst at Boulby Cliffs between 2770 and 2850 pairs bred with between 4500 and 4750
at Hunt Cliff near Saltburn. No counts were received from Whitestone Point and Hawsker
though breeding occurred at suitable sites.

Along the coast, small numbers were recorded at Spurn during the early months with an
indication of passage at the end of March when up to 425 were reported. Birds were then
recorded daily from May to mid-September, usually less than 100. but occasionally more with
a peak of 1400 on 27th May. Numbers were low during the latter months though 254 were
reported on the 31st December. As to be expected, with up to a quarter of a million birds in the
vicinity, Flamborough recorded some huge daily counts; the monthly maxima being 4777 in
March; 22,000 in April; 71,850 in May; 123,000 in July [a record count, on the 13th] and
69,000 in August. Filey, likewise had many large counts with 9000 north in six hours on the
20th August as the maximum.

Inland, c. 100 flew onto the large reservoir at TLNR on the 17th March, most remaining a little
over an hour. On the 20th. 83 were reported from Thruseross Res. whilst on the 29th, 156 were
at Knotford Nook. Elsewhere, during this period, one to six were reported occasionally at nine
locations but at the LDNNR seven were seen on the 19th and, at Bolton-on-Swale, nine on the
28th. whilst, a little earlier, on the 7th. seven were at Pugney’s CP.

Few, invariably singles, were reported inland during the latter months but three were at Eccup
Res. on the 27th August and three at the Wheldrake Ings roost on the 20th December on which
date 40 had been seen to fly north from the estuary near the Humber Bridge.

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica
Very rare passage migrant; not annual.

An adult flew south at Flamborough on the 16th July. (PAL). Not yet submitted to the BBRC.

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

Very rare passage migrant; not annual.

An adult, feeding off-shore, with gulls on the 31st July (PAL). Not yet submitted to the BBRC.

67

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis

Common passage migrant and non-breeding summer visitor.

The first of the year was over Blackburn Meadows on the 18th March (RAH) being the earliest
for the Sheffield area by some ten days. The next to be reported were singles at Filey on the
23rd March then at Flamborough on the 24th after which one was at South Gare on the 28th
with two at Scarborough on the 29th and four at Flamborough on the 3 1 st when one was also
at Saltwick Nab.

Spring passage, at all coastal locations, was light with, at Spurn, monthly maxima of 35 in April
and 57 in May though slightly higher counts were reported from Flamborough with 1 1 6 on the
21st and 87 on the 28th April and, in May, 225 on the 12th and 113 on the 18th. 112 were
recorded there on the 15th June with 100 on the 22nd. The only inland record in spring
[excepting Blackburn Meadows, above] was at North Duffield Carrs on the I Ith April.
Autumn passage was generally average, passage and numbers building up at Spurn from the
end of June having between 100 - 200 until the end of August with higher counts of 592 on the
25th July and 300 on 2nd August. Flamborough actually reported a lower than average autumn
passage with peak counts in July of 450 on the 20th; 500 on the 21st and then 521 on the 28th.
320 were there on the 4th August after which numbers fell. The peaks at Filey were 250 on the
5th August with 842 flying south the following day; this being the last big count for that
location. Elsewhere, along the coast, 219 flew south at Grimston on the 4th July with 387 on
the beach there on the 22nd whilst 720 were at the BLNR on the 25th. Up to 950 were at
Teesmouth at the end of July and first few days of August. In September only Flamborough
reported daily counts in excess of 100 with 263 on the 1st and 143 on the 28th; the maximum
at Spurn being 88 on the 28th. Small numbers were reported in October; up to five were
regularly at Flamborough and single figure totals at Spurn on five dates with the last being two
at Spurn on the 25th and one at Flamborough on that same date.

Only two single birds were reported inland; at Eccup Res. on the 21st August and at Staveley
NR on the 1 3th October.

Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii

Scarce passage migrant; more frequent in autumn.

Three, reported off Sunk Island, on the Humber, on the 27th May, were seen to depart high to
the north-east. Two were at South Gare on the 2nd June whilst singles at Spurn on the 28th and
nearby BLNR the following day may have involved the same individual.

More birds were reported in autumn with singles at Flamborough on the 8th July; Sewerby on
the 12th and Whitby on the 3 1st July. In August, one at Flamborough on the 1 st with three there
on the 14th then on the 18th, one at South Gare with two there on the 21st and another on the
22nd. An adult was at Flamborough on the 24lh. Flamborough had two on the 5th September
with one on the 10th whilst South Gare had two birds on the 12th and finally, one at Spurn, on
the Humber, on the 14th.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Common passage migrant and summer visitor; breeds in small numbers.

The first of the year were reported from Flamborough on the 4th April then, on the 12th, at the
RVCP and Elland GP; the 13th at Spurn and on the 15th at Swillington Ings. Spring passage
along the coast was light with less than 20 at Spurn on all days whilst slightly larger counts
were reported from Flamborough with peaks of 21 on the 5th May then 23 on the 12th and 30
on the 21st June. Inland, up to five were recorded at some 17 sites with up to nine at
Swillington Ings by the end of April; seven at Wheldrake Ings on the 26th April and six at
Southfield Res. on the 15th May. Of 34 birds at Skelton Lake, on the 3rd May, half were stated
to be this species and half, Arctic Terns.

Bred on the British Steel Ore Terminal at Redcar with between 140 and 1 75 pairs in the colony
though details of success are not known. Inland breeding occurred, in VC63, at Catcliffe Flash
[one pair, two young]; Pugney’s CP [eight pairs attempted; two rearing three young];
Broomhill Flash [one pair, three young] and Worsbrough CP [one pair, two young] whilst
attempted breeding occurred at Raventhorpe GP [one pair] and, in VC64, at Farnham GP [two

68

pairs, six young] and Skelton Lake fthree pairs, six young].

Autumn passage, along the coast, was stated as either light or below average. In August,
normally the peak month, Filey had a maximum count of 53 on the 14th; Flamborough had 97
on the 1 5th whilst Spurn fared slightly better with 1 50 on the 10th; 1 57 on die 14th and 100 on
the 31st. Peaks in September were 105 at Flamborough on the 14th whilst Spurn only recorded
60 on the 7th. Passage, at inland locations, was similar to spring with one to six at some 18
sites. Larger parties reported were 12 at Southfield Res. on the 31st July with nine present there
on the 2nd August and ten on the 8th and I Oth plus a further nine moving west there also on
the 10th. The last of the year were singles at Elland GP on the 5th October; Flamborough on
the 22nd October; Filey on the 9th November and, finally, Scarborough on the 12th.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea

Common passage migrant and non-breeding summer visitor.

A single bird at Flamborough on the 1 st April was the first to be reported with the next, on the
10th, at Pugney’s CP [plus one at an undisclosed location in VC64], then on the 13th, two at
Spurn and one at Wheldrake Ings.

Generally small numbers along the coast in spring with few' at Filey and Flamborough; the
latter site having only one day when a double figure count was reported, the 6th May, with 12
birds. Slightly more at Spurn with peaks of 3 1 on the 2 1 st April then 4 1 on the I st May and 3 1
on the 3rd. Quite pronounced passage was noted inland with 1 1 in the Wintersett area on the
17th April; six at Staveley NR on the 20th then 25 to the north over Wheldrake Ings on the
28th. On the 1st May, 14 in the Wintersett area; 18 at Broomhill Ings; 24 at Southfield Res. and
83 north at Wheldrake Ings then, on the following day. 18 at Southfield Res.; ten at
Ingbirchworth Res. and 20 at Wheldrake Ings; c. 14 were at Skelton Lake on the 3rd when eight
were also at Wheldrake Ings and then on the 4th; 12 at Southfield Res. A second, smaller, influx
on the 8th saw 1 1 to the north-east at Wintersett whilst 28 were present at Southfield Res, plus
a further 19 flying north there.

During autumn very few were reported from Filey where the peak was 24 on the 25th July
whilst a similar situation existed at Flamborough where the maxima were 22 on the 27th July;
3 1 the following day then, in August, 15 were seen on the 3rd with 14 on the 4th and 1 1 on the
15th. Spurn also had small numbers excepting 39 on the 10th August. Very few were recorded
inland with one or two at some 1 1 locations but three were at Ardsley Res. on the 1 1th August
and four at Wheldrake Ings on the 1 1th July.

Scarce in October with one or two on four dates at Flamborough until the last on the 29th then
an extremely late bird off Scarborough on the 12th December [the latest ever reported from
Yorkshire, previously being the 21st November 1994 at Filey].

Little Tern Sterna aibifrons

Passage migrant and breeding summer visitor.

At the Easington breeding colony the first returning bird arrived on the 20th April though, as
wardening did not commence until 20th May, the build up was not fully documented. Three
pairs were found to be sitting on the 20th May, earlier than in any previous year. By the 24th
May, 20 scrapes were found. 14 inside the electric fence but, on the night of the 24th/25th, 13
clutches, inside the electric fence, were predated by Fox. 33 sitting birds were present by the
3rd June with 44 by the 13th when the first chicks were noted; the number of chicks had
increased to a minimum of 54 on the 27th June with the occupied scrapes to 49 but many late
clutches suffered predation by Fox. On the 29th a Merlin arrived, taking large chicks. Despite
all these set-backs, a total of 31 chicks fledged being the best year ever for this colony.

The Coathant Sands colony recorded 1 1 clutches but. owing to predation by Fox or to flooding,
only six hatched out of which only two fledged.

The first of the year was at Wheldrake Ings on the 13th April then at Spum/Easington and
Swilllington Ings on the 20th. Few were reported far from the two breeding colonies with along
the coast small numbers being seen occasionally at Flamborough between the 24th May and
the 31st August. Invariably one or two were recorded there but three were present on the 23rd
June whilst Filey had two on both the 24th and 29th June. One was at Whitby on the 3rd May

69

with one at Staithes Nab on the 19th June and three there on the 12th August.

Inland, in addition to the Wheldrake and Swillington Ings birds, one was at Pugney’s CP on the
2nd May; two at Broomhill Ings on both the 26th May and 12th June; three at Southfield Res.
on the 7th June with two there on the 9th September; three at Thrybergh CP on 12th June and
two on the 9th September [Southfield Res. birds?] and, finally, one at Blacktoft Sands on the
1st July.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger

Passage migrant in varying numbers.

An influx occurred on the 20th/2 1st April with the bulk of the records coming on the latter date.
On the 20th, three were at Wheldrake Ings with two at Swillington Ings and one at Broomhill
Ings. The 21st saw singles at Potteric Carr; Scaling Dam and Nosterfield GP; two at Wintersett
Res.; three at Broomhill Ings; four at Southfield Res.; 13 at Wheldrake Ings and, along the
Humber, five at North Cave GP; three at Cherry Cobb; 13 at Sunk Island and 16 at Spurn. Few
were recorded during the following days. In May, five were at Wheldrake Ings on the 1 st; eight
at the RVCP on the 12th with one or two at some further seven locations during the first half
of this month.

Two were at Eccup Res. on the 11th June then, in July, one at Farnham GP on the 4th; one at
Thrybergh CP on the 5th whilst two flew south along the LDNNR on the 11th. Singles were at
Flamborough on the 13th; Filey on the 14th and Spurn on both the 30th and 31st.

Passage in August was reported from many locations with usually one to three at most but, on
the 10th. 13 were at Spurn with five at Sunk Island whilst, the following day, 14 were recorded
at Spurn. On the 23rd. six were at Southfield Res. with nine at Spurn; 1 1 at Spurn on the 24th
when eight were at TLNR; eight at Sunk Island; seven at Flamborough and four at Grimston.
On the 25th, 1 2 passed Filey with seven at Hornsea Mere and four at both TLNR and Pulfin
Bog. Four were reported flying north at Ness Point on the 31st. Few were recorded during
September with singles at Flamborough on the 1st; at Filey on the 5th/6th and lastly, two at
Treeton Dyke on the 20th.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus
Vagrant from eastern Europe; 36 records, 33 since 1961.

A juvenile was present at Burton Riggs NR [Seamer], on 10th and 11th August. (JH: GML:

PS et at).

Guillemot Uriel aalge

Abundant breeder and passage migrant; less common in winter.

No comments were received concerning the breeding status on the Flamborough cliffs or from
further north.

Invariably some very large daily counts were recorded at Flamborough where monthly maxima
were; January. 6500; February, 26,000; March, 20,490; April, 14,580; May, 28,300; June,
94,700; July, 36,000; August, 58; September, 45; October, 2000; November, 9400 and
December, 8000. The June count occurred on the 22nd and is the highest ever for that location.
The very low counts in August and September may, in part, be attributable to birds in moult
being incapable of flight during part of that time. Further north, few counts were reported
though 500 per hour passed Filey occasionally in January. To the south of Flamborough,
considered uncommon at Spurn during the winter months; peak counts here in spring/early
summer were 283 on 1 8th May and 422 on the 22nd June. No reports of this species were
received from either the upper Humber or any inland location.

At least 90 were found oiled, on the beach, between Whitby and Sandsend [four km] in
February; 50 dead and 40 taken into care.

Razorbill A lea torda

Common breeder and passage migrant; less common in winter.

No details of breeding numbers or status received from the Flamborough cliffs. It was
considered that breeding occurred on the Boulby Cliffs with three to five pairs involved whilst

70

breeding may have occurred at Ness Point.

As with Guillemot, due to the proximity of a large breeding colony, the numbers reported from
Flamborough Head were far greater than for any other location. The monthly maxima here
were; January, 25; February, 41; March, 750; April, 3320; May, 9950; June, 21,000; July,
12,365 thereafter only September and October recorded more than 100. The peak counts of
May, June and July occurred on the 27th; 22nd and 8th respectively.

Filey, also, reported good numbers although no actual counts were received. Numbers at Spurn
were far lower than for the previous species [as they were at Flamborough] with maxima here
of 81 on the 30th May and 1 19 on the 22nd June.

Forty were found dead on the tide-line between South Gare and Saltburn on the 24th February.

Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle
Rare winter visitor and passage migrant.

One, on the sea, at Cromer Point, Bumiston, on the 16th February. One, in summer plumage,
was on the Humber, at Spurn on the 19th June and constitutes only the sixth record for the
Observatory. One flew north, with Guillemots, off Long Nab on 5th October.

Little Auk Alle alle

Passage migrant and winter visitor; occasionally abundant.

Rather a quiet year, very few being reported during the early months with one at Filey [dead]
on the 4th January and four there during February. Three at Flamborough on the 1 9th February;
one at Staithes on the 20th whilst during this month, three oiled birds were found in Sandsend
Bay and taken into care. One, found dead, at Spurn on the 8th March was though to have
arrived with the February gales.

The first of the latter months were eight at Spurn on the 23rd October then, on the 29th, 48 at
Flamborough with the first birds reported from Filey. Seven at Spurn on the 30th when 94 were
recorded from Flamborough then, in November, seven at Spurn on the Uth with a similar
number a Filey. On the 12th, 26 were at Spurn; 169 flew south at Filey; 100 south at Staithes
but 72 north at Scarborough. The 13th saw 158 at Spurn and 469 at Flamborough whilst, on
the 14th. 425 were reported from Flamborough and 1 1 at Spurn. Thereafter few were reported
with singles occasionally at Spurn; Filey and Flamborough but 41 at the last location on the
26th. The only December record was of a dead bird at Spurn on the 19th.

Inland, one. found exhausted, at Harome on the 14th November, was taken into care. One at
Pugney's CP on the 15th was rescued from attacking gulls and taken to Fairburn Ings [no
further details]. One found at Chesterfield, Derbyshire, on the 12th was roosted overnight being
released at Flamborough the following day.

Addition to the 1995 Report: One was found dead at Kettlesing on 1 0th November.

Puffin Fratercula arctica

Common breeder and passage migrant; uncommon in winter.

No details of breeding status received from the Flamborough Headland. Small numbers [no
count received], bred to the north of Filey Brigg.

Very few were reported during January/February with singles on four dates at Flamborough
whilst the few Filey records concerned either oiled or dead individuals. A slight increase was
noted in March though nowhere reported any numbers of note. A rapid increase occurred in
April with 4850 at Flamborough on the 7th and 3000 on the 20th whilst, in May, 2500 were
reported on the 27th then 3500 on the 16th June and 8500 on the 22nd. Spurn and Filey also
noted an increase during these months albeit on a far smaller scale; the maximum reported at
Spurn being 79 on the 22nd June on which date 400 passed Filey in three hours. The largest
numbers at Flamborough came, as usual, in July with maxima of 32.285 on the 5th; 29,680 on
the 14th; 22,040 on the 26th then 26,000 the following day. 18.010 were counted on the 3rd
August after which numbers decreased to 3400 on the 14th and then down to less than ten daily
by the end of the month. Not reported from Filey in September although small numbers were
still present at Flamborough where 26 were seen on the 9th but, by October, birds were
decidedly scarce with a single on the 23rd as the only record then one or two very occasionally
in November with the last bird being reported on the 30th.

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Feral Pigeon/Rock Dove Cotumba livia
Common resident

At Flamborough the status of “pure-looking” birds remains unchanged. Counts here were only
undertaken during the early months when 500 were present on the 4th February; 600 on the 3rd
March and 500 on the 2nd April. Breeds quite commonly at all suitable locations to the north
of Flamborough though few details/comments were received.

Inland. 100 were at Thorpe Ashfields on the 24th August whilst exceptional numbers were
reported from Thrybergh CP where monthly maxima were 800 in January; 900 in November
and 2400 in December. TLNR was the only location in the east to report gatherings with peaks
of 100 on the 29th September and 130 on the 27th October.

Stock Dove Cotumba oenas

Fairly common resident; some passage and immigration.

Considered, in parts of Holderness, to be suffering due to competition from other hole-nesting
species for fewer and fewer old or dead trees though at TLNR showed signs of a welcome
increase with several pairs breeding in nearby nest-boxes. Maxima in this area were 120 at
TLNR on the 27th October with 233 at Baswick Landing on the 3rd November. Nearby Pulfin
Bog recorded good numbers at both ends of the year with 32 on the 2nd January; 49 on the 21st
December and 71 on the 27th. 60 were at Little Humber on the 9th November whilst, along the
coast, very few were reported from cither Filey; maximum seven, or Flamborough; maximum
15, whilst Spurn reported ten to the south on the 25th May and 23 south on the 3rd November.
The LDNNR had birds regularly during the early months with 47 at Wheldrake Ings on the 3rd
January, 120 at Bielby on the 20th and 100 at Melbourne the following day with, perhaps, as
many as 500 present at this time throughout the whole area. It was estimated that as many as
78 pairs bred on the Reserve. Numbers were lower during the latter part of the year though 91
flew west at Wheldrake lngs on the 1st October with 60 west there on the 3rd.

No significant records were received from VC62.

No comments on breeding were received from VC63 though large flocks were recorded at
several locations, the largest being 320 at Misson [Yorks/Notts boundary] on the 17th January.
Also, during the early months, 104 were at Pot Hills Marsh on the 30th January whilst c.70
were at Lowther; Broomhill Ings and Wilsic during the period January/February with 120 at
the last location in March. During the latter months, 110 were at Broomhill Ings on the 5th
October with up to 100 in November, c.200 at Bamsdale Bar on the 9th December with a
similar count at Treeton Dyke on the 16th,

Widespread in VC64 though a little scarce in some areas. The largest gathering reported was
on set-aside at Oulton [Leeds], during the period January-March with a peak of 340 on the 14th
March. 70 were at High Batts NR on the 7th January. The only parties of note in the latter
months were 100 at Swillington Ings on the 18th September and 120 flying north over Eccup
Res. on the 1 1 th December.

35 at Bellflask Quarry on the 8th March was the largest flock reported from VC65.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus

Abundant resident and passage migrant/winter visitor

Very few areas reported breeding numbers but, where comments were made, all stated no
apparent change in status with the species being grossly under-reported.

Many large flocks were reported at both ends of the year though few from the eastern part of
the county where maxima were 3100 near TLNR on Uth February; 1000 there on the 24th
November with 1000 on the 26th December and 2200 the following day. 1100 were near
Scarborough on the 17th January.

In VC63, flocks of between 3000 - 5000 were not infrequent during the early months whilst
the hard weather in January produced movements in the Sheffield area more reminiscent of
autumn with a roost at Broomhead Park on the 16th January being deemed “impossible to
count” Numbers during the latter months were larger and included massive southerly
movements over the Pennines to the west of Sheffield. On the 29th October, 8230 were
recorded at Rod Moor with 2690 at Redmires whilst on the 30th. counts at these locations were

72

7360 and 5940 respectively. These counts, however, paled into insignificance compared with
the record movements of the 8th November when 27,395 passed over Rod Moor and 16,355
[in three hours] over Redmires. Elsewhere, 5000 flew north over Anston Stones Wood on the
1st December; 5000 roosted at Corwick Gorse in late November whilst 8000 - 10,000 were
near Rossington Hall | Doncaster], on the 13th December.

6000 roosted at Newby Hall [VC64], on the 30th December with 2200 at Staveley NR on the
7th and c. 1000 at both High Batts NR in late February and at Harewood Park on 14th January.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto

Common resident; still extending range slowly in north-west.

No comments were received concerning status and/or change in distribution, being stated as
greatly under-reported in many areas.

Very few large flocks were recorded in the eastern part of the county with 70 at Filey, in
October, and 59 at Bank Island [LDNNR], during the same month, as the maxima. By far the
largest gatherings were in VC63 with 17 1 at Throapham on the 6th September; 100 at Carlton
and 300 at Swinston Hill [SK58] on the 21st then, on the 29th, 161 at Ardsley Res. whilst, in
October, 233 were at Thrybergh CP on the 23rd and 120 at Broomhill Ings on the 6th. 200 were
seen during this month at Melton. No large flocks were reported from VC64 with the maxima
being 60 at Eccup Res. and 50 at Staveley NR, both in October. No reports received from
VC65.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur

Summer visitor; numbers have decreased in recent years

Slightly conflicting reports were received though almost all locations recorded a continuing
decline in numbers. This species continues to be either very scarce or absent in the west with
few records away from the low ground to the east of the Pennines; very few records being
received from the Bradford; Wharfedale; Halifax and Huddersfield areas and few from the
western parts of the Barnsley and Sheffield areas. Continues to decline in the Leeds; Harrogate
and Doncaster areas [particularly, again, in the west] whilst, over the whole of VC65 stated as
exceptionally scarce, being absent from most sites occupied in 1995. The LDNNR, in the east
of the county, apparently fared far better with a record of 39 singing birds/pairs located on, or
adjacent to, the site in July.

The first of the year were reported, on the 22nd April, at TLNR; Edderthorpe and Blaxton
Common then, on the 23rd, at Meaux. Spring passage was generally light, being only reported
from 14 sites in VC64. however, at some locations along the coast and estuary several days in
late May saw quite good numbers. Spurn reported 23 on the 20th then 84 on the 21st with up
to 20 then daily until the 31st when 1 14 flew south then 44 south the following day whilst Sunk
Island had 15 to the east and 21 west on the 31st May. Flamborough conversely had a poor
spring passage with maxima on 12 on the 19th May and ten on the 23rd.

Very few were reported during the autumn with ten at Welton on the 26th August as the peak
recorded anywhere. The last of the year were singles at Barmby Marsh on the 21st September
and at Owstron on the 28th.

Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula kratneri
Escape/feral

Single birds were reported at Totley on the 29th February; Hollow Meadows on the 10th
March; Seavy Carr on the 9th October and Baildon on the 26th December.

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus

Common summer visitor and passage migrant

The first to be reported were at North Duffield Carrs on the 6th and 9th April then at Southfield
Res. and Wheldrake Ings on the 14th becoming quite widespread by the end of the month. Few
comments were received concerning status with breeding occurring in most areas; the LDNNR.
however, reported an excellent year with over 100 on the site [no dates given]. One was
recorded on the summit of Great Whernside. 2310 ft. a.s.l. on the 21st May. Ten were present

73

at Brinting’s Wood [Thorne], during May whilst 1 1 were there on the 5th.

The last of the year were singles at Southfield Res. and Wheldrake Ings on the 7th September;
at Southfield Res., again, on the 10th and finally, at Spurn, on the 18th.

Barn Owl Tyto alba

Resident; more widespread in south-east; very rare in north-west.

The stronghold of this species remains VC61, particularly the Holdemess area where it is
considered up to 50 pairs possibly bred whilst as many as 40 pairs bred, or attempted to breed,
at, or in the vicinity of. the LDNNR where numbers are considered to still be on the increase.
Reported to have bred at three locations in VC62 whilst, in VC63, an intensive survey under-
taken in the Barnsley area found ten to 12 pairs present. Three pairs also bred in the Doncaster
area whilst two bred to the east of Sheffield. Few records were received from VC64 where the
trend is of increased scarcity with breeding occurring at only one site in the Leeds area where
two broods were raised. Probably bred at Great Ouseburn. Not reported from VC65.

A single bird of the Continental race T. a. guttata [Dark-breasted Bam Owl], was present at
Flamborough between the 1st and 5th January.

Little Owl Athene noctua

Introduced resident; scarce in the east; fairly common in parts of the south and west.
Considered to be under-reported in VC61 where away from the LDNNR only one pair was
known to have bred, at Saltmarshe Delph. Two birds were seen at Kilham on the 24th February
whilst singles were occasionally reported from the TLNR area; near Hornsea; from several
locations in the York area and from a Hull suburb [between the 6th February and 14th June].
Well distributed in the LDNNR with 1 1 birds at Thornton Ellers on the 26th July and an
estimated 31 pairs breeding on the Reserve.

Few reported in VC62 away from the York area where breeding was confirmed at five
locations. In the east of this VC one, possibly two pairs, bred in the Scarborough area; one pair
at both Whitestone Point and Abbey Plain [Whitby], whilst birds were recorded at a further ten
sites without confirmation of breeding.

An estimated 77 pairs bred in VC63; the stronghold being in the Barnsley area where at least
30 pairs reared some 40 young. About 16 pairs bred around Doncaster with probably 15 in the
Halifax area. Nine pairs were reported from the Huddersfield area with five in Sheffield and
one at Pugney’s CP whilst a pair was present in the Castleford area. No details were received
from VC64, however, it was stated to be widespread with no change in status or distribution,
breeding occurring in both upland and lowland areas. No comments or details were received
from VC65.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco

Widespread resident.

Would appear to be no change of status in VC61 where grossly under-reported.

In VC63, an estimated 71 pairs were reported breeding but this was considered to be an under
estimate. For once found breeding in all society areas with 25 pairs around Barnsley rearing
about 40 young whilst other totals were; Sheffield, ten pairs [some may have been in
Derbyshire]; Doncaster, 15 pairs; Huddersfield and Halifax combined, at least 16 pairs. A
further five pairs were reported in areas not covered by local societies. Status and distribution
unchanged in VC64 where it remains by far the most common owl.

No comments or details received from either VC62 or VC65.

Long-eared Owl Asia otus

Scarce resident; passage migrant and winter visitor

Only one pair bred in VC61, at Moreby Wood, near Escrick, though birds were reported in the
breeding season from Wheldrake Wood and Saltmarshe Delph. During the non-breeding
season, "five were at Burstwick on the 28th January with four there on several dates in
November/December and, in February, up to four were at Wheldrake and five at Thornton
Ellers whilst 12 were reported along the valley between Wheldrake and Sutton. The roost at

74

Flamborough held good numbers during the early months with ten on the 1st and 12 on the 5th
January; nine on the 18th and seven on the 25th February then, in March, 16 on the 8th and
eight on the 22nd - the roost was not occupied during the latter months. No counts were
received from the old-established roost at Cowlam. Elsewhere, along the coast, in both VC61
and VC62. few were seen. At least two pairs were proved breeding in VC62 whilst birds were
present at a further eight locations though no further details were forthcoming.

In VC63. at least seven pairs bred in the Doncaster area whilst four pairs reared ten young in
the Barnsley area; one pair in the Sheffield area; one in SK58 and one near Castleford.
Breeding was not reported from either the Halifax or Huddersfield areas though the species
undoubtedly did so. Three roosts, in this VC, held four birds during the early months, however,
two of these suffered from disturbance. In the latter months up to seven birds were at Thorpe
Marsh and six at Broomhill Ings.

In the Leeds area, of VC64, up to five used three different roosts between Fleet Lane and
Woodlesford between the 2nd February and the 13th April. A bird was seen hunting at Timble
on the 1 2th May and then regularly until the 25th June with at least two young heard calling in
this vicinity on the 30th May and 1st June and, again, on the 19th July and also from nearby
Beecroft Moor Plantation on the 28th. Single birds were also seen at Cray on the 12th April
and at Greenhow on the 13th May.

Short-eared Owl Asia flammeus

Scarce resident in moorland areas; passage migrant and winter visitor

Seemingly becoming scarcer in the south and east, both as a breeding bird [south] and winter

visitor [east].

In VC61, a bird was seen carrying food at dusk, on the 10th and 17th May, along the LDNNR
whilst, on the 23rd July, one, at North Duffield Carrs, was accompanied by a newly fledged
juvenile, possibly having bred nearby after having made attempts to breed in the area in recent
years. Up to two were reported from the North York Moors during the summer though no
evidence of breeding was forthcoming.

Scarce, in VC63, this year with no breeding reported from the Halifax area; none from the
Yorkshire part of the Sheffield area whilst, in the Barnsley area, two pairs bred on the
moorlands with possible breeding occurring at a third location. Pairs were present during the
summer months at 1 1 sites, in VC64, with breeding probably occurring at most of those whilst,
in VC65, there were few reports received concerning the breeding status though it is considered
to be increasingly uncommon in the Reeth area.

Was generally scarce along the coast and the estuary in the winter periods with all locations
recording fewer birds than in recent years and no autumnal influx noted. Invariably reports
concerned single birds but two were occasionally recorded at Spurn during the latter months
and two were seen at Skeffling on the 13th January; an exception, however, was five at Cherry
Cobb on the 1 6th November. VC63 reported a poor year, generally, with only one record in the
Huddersfield area; very few reported from around Halifax though an average year was reported
from the Sheffield area where most records were from the moorland areas during the breeding
season and. usually, from Derbyshire rather than Yorkshire; three, however, were near Strines
on the 28th November. A poor year was the consensus around Doncaster excepting the
Southfield Res. area where records were regular during both winter periods with up to six
roosting occasionally,! 1st December], Few were recorded during the winter months from the
lowland areas around Barnsley. Lowland records, in VC64, were more frequent during the
latter months with up to three in both the Ripon and Thorpe LInderwood areas and up to two
occasionally at Swillington Ings and Eccup Moor in November.

Nightjar Caprimulgus caprimulgus

Scarce summer visitor and passage migrant

Churring males were reported in VC61, from Skipwith Common with three and at Grimston,
with one [for two days only]. In VC62, one at Yearsley Moor Wood; between 29 and 32 in
Cropton Forest and five in Wykeham Forest; no counts were made in other forest areas. The
total for Thome Moors [VC63], was 30 whilst Hatfield Moors held 29 with a total of 11

75

recorded at three sites in the Barnsley area, one of which held four pairs. The only record from
VC64 was of a single bird at Sway Wood during the early summer.

Extreme dates on Thome Moors were the 29th May and the 22nd August with, in the Barnsley
area, 27th May and 18th July and the last bird on Hatfield Moor, a juvenile/female, being seen
on the 13th September. Away from the breeding locations few were reported; a male was at
Marley on the 8th June and one was at Spurn on the 19th May.

Addition to the 1995 Report: Between 16 and 18 churning males were recorded on Hatfield
Moors where the last bird was reported on the 8th September.

Swift Apus apus

Common summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first of the year was recorded on the 1 1 th April at Hay-a-Park GP followed by two birds at
Hood Green on the 14th then, on the 17th, one at Skeffling; two at Nosteli on the 19th when
singles were also at Swillington Ings and Potteric Carr. The first to arrive on the coast were
seen on the 22nd at Filey and Spurn. Birds were quite widespread by early May though
numbers did not reach large totals until the latter half of that month when up to 1000 were at
Spurn between the 19th and 21st with 3550 on the 31st whilst Broomhill Ings had 1800 pass
north on the 1 8th and up to 1000 quite regularly towards the end of the month. Daily counts of
c.500 were occasionally reported during this month at Swillington Ings; Skelton Lake and Hay-
a-Park GP. Larger gatherings were reported in June with 2000 at Spurn on the 1 0th/ 1 1 th then
8500 on the 17th and 1 1 ,500 on the 28th on which date 2000 were reported from Flamborough
whilst, on the 29th, 3800 were at TLNR. 1 000+ were at Knostrop SF on the 1 1 th with 2000 on
the 14th.

No comments were received on breeding status though it is felt that any trend in numbers is
downwards.

Numbers at most locations declined in July with 1000 birds passing Spurn on four dates
peaking with 4100 on the 13th. No more than 120 were recorded at Flamborough during this
month but, away from the coast, TLNR recorded 4350 on the 3rd [highest count ever for that
location surpassing the 3200 in June 1990 and 3800 this year]. Only small numbers were
reported from the coast in August but, in VC63, 2000 were seen at Thurscoe on the 12th and
1000 at Richmond on the 20th. Few were seen in September with the last birds inland being
at Firsby Res. [VC63], on the 13th; Staveley NR [VC64], on the 18th; LDNNR [VC61], on
the 23rd and then, in October, one at South Anston Pit Top [VC63], on the 13th. Along
the coast, one at Cayton Bay on the 27th September; Flamborough on the 30th; Atwick on the
1 1th October; Grimston on the 23rd and at Spurn on three dates in October with the last on
the 26th.

Alpine Swift Apus melba

Vagrant, usually in spring, from southern Europe.

One seen flying south at Spurn on the 14th July - the tenth record for the Observatory (GF).

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis

Resident; numbers vary with severity of winters.

Comments on status were sparse, the only ones received indicating no change. Although quite
widely distributed would appear to be under-reported in VC6I where one. probably two pairs,
bred near TLNR though no records were received from other parts of the R. Hull catchment
area. Would appear to be doing quite well along the R. Derwent where some ten pairs were
located around the NNR with a total of 16 birds recorded during a WeBS count on the 15th
September.

Only one confirmed breeding pair was recorded in VC62 though the possibility of further pairs
in the vicinity of York exists. 16 pairs were proved to have bred in VC63, most of them in the
Barnsley area with the remainder being quite evenly spread throughout the other society areas.
Status and distribution unchanged in VC64 with breeding occurring at many locations; Pool
Paper Mills, as usual, holding most birds with up to seven there in late July/early August.
Occasionally reported at the coast during the winter months.

76

Bee-eater Merops apiaster

Vagrant from southern Europe; annual in recent years.

Three, seen flying alongside the M 1 8, near Potteric Carr on the 28th May (DP) whilst a single
bird was reported from Spurn on the 21st July,

Hoopoe Upupa epops

Vagrant from the Continent; annual in recent years.

One, at Brotton, near Saltbum, from 23rd to 27th April; one near the golf course at
Flamborough on 5th May (DB; PAL: BR et al) whilst one at Beighton, near Sheffield, on the
14th December had, apparently, been present for two or three weeks being last reported on the
29th (EAF: KRG et al).

Wryneck .lynx torquilla
Scarce passage migrant.

The excellent spring at Spurn was not reflected at other coastal locations. One at Spurn on the
14th April; [the earliest ever there equalling the earliest county record; Flamborough 14th April
1983] with another on the 18th. Two were present on the 3rd May then six on the 4th followed
by a record spring total of ten on the 5th falling to five on the 6th one of which remained to the
9th. Two were present on the I Oth with five the following day, four on the 12th then two on the
13th with one on the 14th and one on the 19th. Elsewhere, along the coast, one was at Boulby
on the 25 April with singles at Filey on the 4th/5th; 18th and 19th May whilst two were at
Flamborough on the 5th.

Inland, in spring, one was at Hood Green, near Barnsley, from the 28th April to the 4th May
whilst one was watched feeding on ants in Colsterdale on the 12th May.

Fewer were recorded in the autumn with Spurn reporting two on the 28th August and then
singles, in September, on the 8th; 15th; 18th and 19th; this last bird remained until the 22nd
with a second individual being present from the 20th to the 25th. One was at Kilnsea on the
28th August and one at Flamborough on the 22nd September on which date one was also at
South Gare.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis

Resident; slight range extension eastwards in recent years.

In general very scarce in the east though one was at Filey on the 14th September and one at
Flamborough on the 1 8th August with another trapped there on the 30th October; [it is possible
the Flamborough records concerned the same individual having perhaps frequented nearby
Sewerby Park]. One. at TLNR. on both the 14th and 19th June whilst, at the LDNNR, single
birds were occasionally reported. Pairs were noted at Allerthorpe Common, Escrick and
Moreby Park though breeding was not confirmed at any location whilst sporadic sightings were
reported from Saltmarshe Delph during the year. In VC62, a pair was reported breeding at
Sandsend whilst birds were heard calling at some 20 locations.

About 60 pairs were found in VC63, most of which were proved to have bred. Reported widely
from all suitable sites around Sheffield with a similar situation in the Doncaster area, records
generally concerning one or two birds but up to four were at Broomhill Ings in March and at
Thorpe March all year.

Widely reported in VC64, mainly in spring, when birds were heard calling at some 80 sites
though breeding was reported from only seven of those, however, this is not considered to be
a true reflection as immatures were recorded at many of those sites.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major

Resident; small numbers of migrants from the Continent in most years.

In the east it would appear that distribution and status of this species remains unchanged;
breeding was confirmed, however, at Filey for the first time.

An estimated 70 pairs were reported breeding in VC63 though possibly this species was under-
reported. An unprecedented number of breeding records was received from the Sheffield area
though this increase was attributed to improved coverage rather than an actual change in status.

77

Breeding records came from the usual areas of VC64 where up to ten birds were seen at Temple
Newsam during January and February with nine at Lindley Wood Res. on the 26th June. One
flying south-west over Denton Moor on the 19th October was considered unusual.

Several records were received from the coast with, at Spurn, with singles on seven dates plus
two on the 21st September; at Flamborough on the 9th October; Hunt Cliff on the 23rd
September and Boulby on the 7th November which may have been migrants from the
Continent and of the race D. m. major.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor

Scarce resident: absent from the east though possibly extending range.

Up to four pairs were present in the Wheldrake area of the LDNNR from mid-March becoming
very elusive by mid-April; breeding here was not confirmed. A single, reported at Filey on the
14th September, remained in the area until the 28th and constituted the first record for that
location.

The only records from VC62 were of a pair at Brandsby on the 27th February and a single at
Newton-under-Roseberry on the 13th November.

Records were received from all society areas in VC63 being quite numerous in some. Breeding
was, however, proven at only four sites whilst probable breeding may have occurred at a
further four though, considering the number of reports received, it is likely that breeding
occurred at other locations. In VC64 records came from some 35 locations, most of which were
in the early months, with breeding only proven at one whilst drumming and/or display was
noted at a further three. No change in status reported from VC65 where this bird remains scarce
and only two records [locations were not reported] were received.

Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla

An almost annual vagrant from Mediterranean areas.

One, at Spurn, on 22nd April with another at that location on June 1st; this latter bird also being
recorded at Sammy's Point /Kilnsea], later that same day.

Woodlark Lullula arborea

Scarce visitor; increasing in recent years

In spring, single birds were reported from Flamborough on the 4th April then at Grimston on
the 8th; Thorpe Marsh on the 9th and near Midhope Res. on the 14th. [this last being only the
fourth record for the Sheffield area this century - the third was last year].

Two singles were reported during the latter months; at Filey on the 15th October, flying south,
and at Flamborough, being present, on the 23rd and 24th October.

Skylark Alauda arvensis

Common, though decreasing, resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Few comments, concerning breeding, were forthcoming from the east of the county where the
general impression was of a continuing decline. However, in some areas of VC6I, particularly
around Homsea/Catfoss/Seaton, birds were singing in spring wherever ‘set-aside 1 was to be
found. Results of a breeding bird survey at TLNR were encouraging with up to 29 pairs in the
area during early June. Also, in the York area, birds were stated as ‘numerous' in a breeding
survey square at Riecall. VC63 also commented that the general impression was of a continued
decline though still a widespread breeding bird in the Doncaster area where Broomhill Ings had
35 singing birds. No comments were received from VCs 62; 64 and 65.

During the early months, flocks in the east were generally small with the maxima being 135 at
Broomfleet on the 30th January; up to 200 at Filey during that month and 350 at Marske SF on
the 28th. In VC63, clOOO flew south at Brodsworlh on the 27th January whilst c.610 were
reported between Billingley and Middlecliffe on the 10th with 300 at Bamsdale on the 1st
February. Very large numbers, associated with hard weather, were at Fleet Lane [Leeds], on the
27th/28th January, when c.500 were present, increasing to 1000+ on the 29th, thereafter falling
rapidly, however. 150 had returned by the 20th February.

In autumn, passage along the coast was light with maxima at Flamborough of 120 on the 23rd

78

October and 150 on the 15th November whilst Spurn recorded maxima of 170 on the 14th
October then 208 on the 19th and 176 on the 21st. Westerly passage was noted along the
Humber, at Sunk Island, with peaks of 406 on the 4th October; 302 on the 5th; 197 on the 7th
and 502 on the 19th. Passage was noted along the R. Derwent with, in September, 200 flying
west at Wheldrake on the 28th and 400 on the 29th whilst, in October, 300 flew south on the
3rd then 200 on the 7th and 270 on the 19th. Elsewhere in the York area, 200 were at Newton
Mask on the 29th November, In VC63, the largest flocks during the latter months were 120 at
Wilsic on the 25th November and 120 at Brodsworth on the 29th December whilst the only
flock of note in VC64 was of 140 at Staveley NR in November. Southerly passage was noted
on the 31st December, as a result of heavy snowfall, when some 2300 were recorded in the
Doncaster area with 280 at Loversall; 292 at Potteric Carr; 170 at Southfield Res.; 657 at
Thrybergh CP and, further east, 176 at Breighton and 297 at Newton.

Shorelark Eremophila alpestris

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.

Few were reported, during the early months, with one at Flamborough on the 19th January
then, in April, two at Spurn on the 16th and one on the 27th whilst four were at Port Mulgrave
from the 9th to the 16th.

During the latter months birds were both more numerous and widespread with the first at
Hawsker on the 12th October followed by three at Kilnsea on the 14th then singles at Spurn
and Flamborough on the 19th; Filey on the 20th then at Flamborough on the 24th and 25th with
seven there on the 26th. In November, Spurn had singles on the 10th and 14th; four on the 13th,
two on the 15th, three on the 1 6th then eight on the 17th with two on the 23rd whilst two birds
also flew south on the 17th. At Filey, three were present from the 9th to the 15th with six
on the 19th and 15 on the 23rd. Two were at Flamborough on the 17th with one the following
day then four on the 26th and five on the 27th. Ten were reported at Port Mulgrave on the 6th
with up to 14 there until the 1 5th. The only record in December was of a single at Grimston on
the 28th.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia

Fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant.

Spurn recorded the first of the year, a single on the 19th March then, on the following day,
singles were also at llkley and Barden Bridge. The next reported were on the 24th when singles
were at Blackburn Meadows; TLNR; Dewsbury SF and Thome Moors whilst two were at
Broomhill Ings. Although quite widely distributed by the end of the month the first records
from VC65 were on the 3rd April and from VC62, on the 5th.

Peak counts, in VC61. during spring passage were 650 at Spurn on the 21st April [a record
spring total for that locationj; 800 at Wheldrake Ings on the 28th whilst up to 500 were reported
daily during this month at TLNR with higher counts of 1 400 on the 22nd; 1 000 on the 23rd and
2000 on the 30th. In May. up to 1000 were present almost daily at TLNR with 2200 on the 7th
and 19th whilst ‘thousands' were over Hornsea Mere on the 1st. No large counts were reported
from VC62 but, in VC63, 1500 were at Blacktoft Sands on the 17th and 20th April. 500 were
at Knotford Nook [VC64], on the 20th April with 600 at Knostrop SF on the 3rd May whilst
the 3000 recorded at Staveley NR on the 23rd April was a massive spring count.

Few comments/totals were received on breeding from VC6I excepting c200 pairs at North
Cave GP; all 20 holes at TLNR [purpose built] were occupied whilst 12 pairs bred in the cliff
face at Grimston. Other colonies in the Holderness coast cliffs were not counted. The only site
counted in VC62 was at Wykeham Lakes where there was an increase to 217 occupied holes
from 160 last year. Counts reported from the Doncaster area [VC63], showed 300 pairs at
Blaxton GP; 130 in a new colony at Doncaster Lakeside; 90 at Hatfield Woodhouse and 30 at
Finningley. Elsewhere, 400 holes were counted at Methley GP with no comment of the actual
number in use; 150 at Pugney’s CP at a new quarry working; 56 at Marley SW and 82 on the
R. Aire near Silsden. Locations with colonies of 12 or less were reported at Austerfield [200
pairs here in 1995]; Wintersett; Cawthorne and Raventhorpe. A colony on Hatfield Moors
which held 40 pairs in 1995 was destroyed by ‘landscaping’ in the spring. A ‘normal’ breeding

79

season was reported from VC64 whilst the only comment received from VC65 was of very
high numbers again in the Catterick area.

Large numbers were reported in the autumn with, at Spurn, over 1000 on six days during
August and an all-time record of 12,000 on the 22nd whilst, along the Humber, at Sunk Island,
422 passed west on the 10th and 480 on the 17th then 616 on the 7th September. The peak
numbers at TLNR occurred in July with the exceptionally large number of 4200 on the 24th
whilst, at the LDNNR. peaks there were later with 1000 at Wheldrake Ings on the 30th then
3000 on the 31st. In September. 4100 on the 2nd then 3000 on the 3rd and 5th; 4000 on the 6th;
4500 on the 7th after which numbers declined rapidly. 2000+ were at Howdendyke Lee on the
3rd August.

The maximum reported from VC62 was 500+ at Wykeham Lakes on the 21st July. Blacktoft
Sands had the largest numbers in VC63 with 3200 on the 17th July; 2100 on the 23rd August
and 10,500 on the 1st September whilst no other locations in this VC had more than 600 birds.
Maximum count recorded in VC64 was 2500 at Skelton-on-Ure on the 29th August. No counts
reported from VC65 though two leucistic birds were at Bellflask Quarry in May.

The last of the year were reported from Wheldrake Ings on the 6th October; Spurn on the 7th;
Thrybergh CP on the 15th; Spurn on the 16th and, finally, Gouth waite Res. on the 18th.

Swallow Hirundo rustica

Common summer visitor and passage migrant

The first to be reported were in late March, at Elland GP on the 24th; Southfield Res. on the
27th then at Swillington Ings and the RVCPon the 31st. Arrival dates along the coast were later
with the first being at Spurn on the 7th April then at Flamborough and Saltburn on the 8th. The
main spring passage on the coast occurred during mid-to late May with peaks of 200 at
Flamborough on the 14th and 500 to 1000 at Spurn between the 20th and 1st June.

The only comments received concerning breeding status were ‘a good season’ [VC64], and,
from the Sheffield area, ‘large numbers present during August/September presumably
indicating a good breeding season’. The only roosts of any note reported were from VC63
where 2500 were at High Royd SF on the 13th August increasing steadily to 6000 on the 6th
September with 5000 on the 12th; 3000 were at Worsbrough Res. on the 23rd August and 2700
at Wintersett Res. on the 27th. No sustained autumnal passage was recorded at Spurn with few
dates reporting in excess of 1000, those being 1700 on the 22nd August; 3500 on the 1st
September with 1000 on the 11th and 9900 on the 14th. 800 at Flamborough on the 23rd
September was the peak count there; no other site having more than a few hundred. Along
the estuary, at Sunk Island, peaks were 3720 to the west on the 7th September with 1852 on
the 14th.

The last of the year were four at Thrybergh CP on the 18th October; five at Oxenhope on the
19th; singles at TLNR, Filey and Wheldrake Ings on the 20th; two at Swillington Ings on the
22nd; two at Flamborough on the 27th then, in November, all records came from Spurn where
four were seen on the 1st; two on both the 2nd and 3rd with one on the 9th.

Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica

Vagrant from the Mediterranean; most often in spring

One, recorded at both Kilnsea and Spurn on 9th July. (MJP: RT et ai).

House Martin Delichon urhica

Common summer visitor and passage migrant.

One at Knotford Nook on the 29th March was the first of the year with another [or the same?]
at that same location on the 1st April. The next to be reported were at Swillington Ings on the
3rd then Sprotbrough Flash on the 6th and Pugney's CP on the 7th. The first, in the east, was
at TLNR on the 10th then Scalby Mills on the 1 1th. The main coastal passage occurred in late
May with between 300 and 800 daily, at Spurn, between 21st May and 1st June whilst
Flamborough had 200 on the 2nd June. The peak counts at TLNR, however, came earlier with
280 on the 1st May; 350 on the 11th and 200 on the 16th though the LDNNR had their peaks
on the 18th with 300 and on the 28th with 350. Further to the west peak counts were 250 at

80

Denaby Ings on the 7th May with 150 at Swillington Ings on the 1 1th and 350 at Thrybergh CP
on the 16th.

No comments were received on breeding status or numbers.

Autumnal gatherings were ‘smaller than usual’ in VC64 with a maxima of c . 200 at Spofforth
on the 8th August and 200 at Swillington Ings on the 14th August whilst, in VC63, maxima
were 500 at Sprotbrough Flash between the 20th and 22nd September and 400 at Firsby Res.
on the 19th August.

Coastal passage was light with a peak count of 300 at Flamborough on the 20th September and
no more than 240 in any one day at Spurn though westerly passage along the Humber, at Sunk
Island, peaked with 546 on the 7th September and 231 on the 15th.

The last to be recorded were, in October, at Thrybergh CP on the 15th then, on the 16th, at
Southfield Res.; at High Batts NR and Swillington Ings on the 18th; Cromer Point on the 21st
then Greystones [Sheffield] on the 28th. In November, singles were seen at Long Nab on the
2nd; Spurn on the 4th and Flamborough on the 9th.

Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae

Rare annual autumnal visitor from Central Asia.

All records concerned single birds; at Whitestone Point on the 21st September, which was seen
to fly inland (TJB: RSS); at Tunstall on the 21st/22nd (BR el al ); at Filey on the 23rd (PM:
PLM: JS) then, in October, at Filey on the 10th (TA: PJD et al); at Spurn on the 15th, flying
south; at Sammy's Point [Kilnseal, on the 17th (NPW); at Flamborough on the 22nd (NP: SB)
whilst the bird reported at a different location on the headland the following day may have been
this same individual (PAL); at Spurn on the 23rd. flying to the south and. finally, in November
at Filey from the 8th to the 11th (SC et al).

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis

Breeding summer visitor and passage migrant.

Considered to be slowly increasing in the Halifax area though comments from some areas
would suggest a decline whilst from others there would appear to be uncertainty as to the
present status.

Very few records were received from VC61 during the breeding season with birds being
reported from Fulford Golf Course and Flamborough but at neither was breeding confirmed.
Birds were present in clearings in the North York Moors Forest [VC62|, but no estimates of
breeding numbers were forthcoming. One was seen feeding a juvenile on Strensall Common
on the 5th June with a least Five singing males present there on the 12th. Breeding, in VC63,
was reported from the usual locations with a decline being generally reported, excepting near
Halifax [above]. In VC64. although there were a small number of singing birds reported no
confirmation of breeding was received whilst, in VC65, very few birds were reported with the
only comments received indicating a decline.

The first of the year was on the 4th April at Wheldrake Ings followed by one at the RVCP on
the 12th then, on the 15th, at the Dearne Valley Park and near Midhope then becoming quite
widespread the following day when the first were reported from the coast. A good passage was
noted in the Cowbar/Boulby area with a total of 44 birds recorded between the 20th April and
21st May whilst Flamborough had 36 birds including five on both the 19th and 25th May.
Maxima at Spurn being seven on the 26th April and eight on the 19th May. All areas reported
a quiet autumn passage with the peak falling on the 21st September when Flamborough had six
and Spurn 17. The last to be reported were on the 6th October at Blackburn Meadows with one
also there on the 8th then one at Cayton Bay on the 1 Ith.

Correction to the 1994 Report: delete “although some 27 pairs were reported on Thorne
Moors’’.

Pechora Pipit Anthus gu.stavi

Accidental 'from northern Russia/Siberia; two records, at Spurn in 1966 and Filey in 1994.
One, at Flamborough, on 20th September (PAL); the first record for that location and the third
for Yorkshire. Not yet submitted to the BBRC.

81

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

Abundant resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

The only comment, on status, received was from the Sheffield area where there appeared to be
a slight decrease on 1995; in all other areas status was assumed to be unchanged.

Few parties were noted during the early winter months with only light spring passage; the
peaks being 250 per hour at Boulby on the 24th March and 320 per hour there on the 31st with
280 on the 28th April. Maximum at Spurn being 220 on the 24th March whilst Flamborough
had 150 on the 13th April.

The main autumn passage along the coast occurred in September with up to 400 regularly at
Spurn though higher counts of 3000 on the 11th; 1 200 on the 26th; 12,000 on the 28th and 2400
on the 30th, were recorded. Flamborough reported record numbers during this month with
2400 on the 14th and 2700 the following day whilst, further north, the peak at South Gare was
500 on the 16th. Along the Humber, at Sunk Island, 480 on the 28th was the reported peak. This
passage was also reflected inland with 1 000 to the south-west over Wheldrake Ings on the 28th
and 2000, in two hours, on the following day. At this last location, this passage continued into
October with 1000 south on the 3rd.

500 flew west at Thornton Moor Res. [VC63], on the 15th September with 'thousands' to the
west at Whiteholme Res. the following day. On the 28th, 5420 flew west or south-west at
Strines with 4100 at Redmires and then, on the 30th, 2230 were recorded at Strines with 3200
at Redmires, 970 at Wintersett Res. and ‘good numbers’ at Ogden Res. The only count of note
in VC64 was 500 at Staveley NR on the 28th.

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus

Rare vagrant from northern Europe and Asia; 20 records since 1970 [12 in spring; eight in
autumn].

One, at Flamborough, on 6th September. (KLK). Not yet submitted to the BBRC.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus

Fairly common resident and winter visitor from Scandinavia.

No apparent change in breeding status. Few counts were received from the coast where peaks
at Flamborough were ten on the 23rd March and 15 on the 6th October with, at Filey, 18 on the
2nd November. Only small numbers were at Spurn during the early months but slight passage
was noted in mid-October when maxima reported were 14 on the 17th and 16 on the 19th. At
Cherry Cobb, on the Humber, up to eight were present at the end of October with, at nearby
Sunk Island, 1 1 on the 1 0th February and ten on the 14th October.

Inland, at the LDNNR |VC6I ], several were noted in October with three at Thorganby on the
12th; four at Wheldrake Ings on the 14th and two there on the 15th. In VC63, single birds were
reported at eight sites during the early months and then, in the latter months, one to three at
some 12 locations, most records coming in October. Singles were reported from VC64. at
Timble, on the 24th April; Lemonroyd SF on the 1 1 th/1 2th October; Staveley NR on the 12th
October and at Denton Moor on the 1 9th October.

Individuals considered, by plumage details, to be of the race A. p. littoraiis [Scandinavian Rock
Pipit] were reported from most well-watched coastal sites with four at Grimston between the
8th and 15th April; two at Cromer Point Pond on the lst/2nd April whilst Flamborough had
eight on the 16th March then six on the 24th with two on the 4th April and three on the 5th.
Inland, singles were at Broomhill Ings on the 30th March and at the RVCP on the 6th and 21st
April with what was considered a different individual present there on the 26th.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta
Scarce winter visitor from Europe.

Very scarce in the east where singles were seen at Scaling Dam on the 15th January; 20th
March and the 7th December. Along the LDNNR, singles were reported from Wheldrake Ings
between the 3rd and 5th April and, on the 8th, at Wheldrake Ings, Bank Island and Thornton.
In VC63, birds were recorded regularly at Blacktoft Sands until the 3rd April with four on the
13th February. Three were at Marley SW during early January with one there to the 17th

82

March. During the spring single birds were occasionally reported from the RVCP; Blackburn
Meadows; Angler’s CP and Leeshaw Res. whilst, in the latter months, three were at Dewsbury
SF on the 2nd November with two there on the 4th and one remaining to the end of the year.
Singles were occasionally reported during November/December at Thornton Moor Res. and
Marley SW.

One at Lemonroyd SF [VC64], on the 29th January with one at Swillington Ings between the
4th and 12th February. Two were at Fairbum Ings from the 18th to 26th February whilst, in
March, one or two were at Swillington Ings between the 4th and 31st. During the latter months
of the year, one was at Swillington Ings on the 5th November being seen again on two further
dates to the end of the year but thought to have been present throughout the period. One was
at Little Studley Meadows on the 8th November.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava

Common summer visitor and passage migrant; possibly declining.

The first of the year were all reported from the south and west of the county, in VC63, at
Blacktoft Sands and Dinnington SW on the 6th April; on the 7th, at Blaxton GP.; Southfield
Res. on the 8th then on the 9th from Angler’s CP and Thorpe Marsh with the first from VC61,
on this date, at the LDNNR. One at Hay-a-Park GP, on the 1 1th was the first in VC64 whilst
the first for VC65 came on the 14th, at Bolton-on-Swale by which time birds were quite
widespread throughout most of the county. Spring maxima reported were 25 at Angler’s CP on
the 16th then on the 17th; 25 at Blacktoft Sands, 40 at Pugney's CP, 22 at Pulfin Bog and 36
at North Cave GP. 5 1 were at the LDNNR on the 1 8th with 20 at Bellflask Quarry then, on the
following day, 63 at North Duffield Carrs and 40 at Southfield Res. The 20th saw 45 at
Ellerholme GP., 32 at Boulby, 39 at Filey and 32 at Spurn whilst, on the 21st, 45 were at
Blacktoft Sands and 120+ at the LDNNR with, on the 22nd, 85 at Blacktoft Sands, 50 at
Angler's CP and 41 at Grimston. 44 were at Edderthorpe on the 23rd with 47 at the RVCP, 38
at Nosterfield GP and 60 at Ellerholme GP then, on the 25th, 1 05 at Spurn whilst, the following
day, 120 were at Spurn with 68 at Angler’s CP. During the period 23rd to 26lh April between
40 and 60 were recorded daily at TLNR and then, on the 27th. 146 [a location record] were at
Flamborough with 50+ on the Scarborough Cricket Ground and 39 at Filey. 80 were at North
Duffield Carrs on the 1 st May with 67 at Angler’s CP on the 2nd and 1 35 at North Duffield on
the 8th.

Breeding numbers at the LDNNR [VC61], were well up on last year with some 120 pairs
estimated to have been present; no comments came from other locations in this VC. No
comments were received from VC62 though one or two pairs at Wykehant Lakes constituted
only the seventh documented breeding occurrence in the Scarborough area. In VC63, numbers
appear to have been maintained in lowland and eastern areas with breeding status in VC64
considered normal whilst no comments were received from VC65.

In autumn, 60 were reported from Blaxton GP [VC63], on the 15th July with 80 at Went Ings
on the 29th. Numbers at Blaxton GP had increased to 160 on the 3rd August when 45 were at
Blacktoft Sands. On the 16th, 103 flew west, along the Humber, at Sunk Island with 93 west
there on the 24th. On the 18th, 30 were at Flamborough whilst, on the I9th/20th. c.43 were at
TLNR then, on the 23rd, 50 at Edderthorpe and. on the 23rd. 360 at Blacktoft Sands with 60
there the following day. During this month Spurn recorded between 20 and 50 daily though had
record counts of 177 on the 25th and 182 on the 26th. 50 were reported flying south along the
R. Derwent at Wheldrake Ings on the 5th September. By mid-September only small numbers
were reported with the last birds being one at Hay-a-Park GP on the 25th then, in October, one
at Flamborough on the 2nd; Spurn on the 5th with six at Dinnington SW on the 6th. One at
Dewsbury SF on the 13th then one at Spurn on the 15th, two at Belflask Quarry on the 26th
and, finally, one at King's Wood [VC63], on the 27th.

Individuals of the nominate race M.f flava [Blue-headed Wagtail] were quite widespread. Filey
reported their best year with an estimated eight birds recorded between the 20th April and the
1 1th May including up to three present on the 26th April. Conversely, Flamborough had a quiet
year with two on the 26th and three on the 27th April then one on the 12th May. Single birds
were recorded at Spurn on the 3rd; 4th; 11th and 23rd May with one, in autumn, on the 22nd

83

September. A male of this race was seen gathering food at TLNR on the 30th June and 2nd July
then to fly off towards the river. The LDNNR had one on the 1 8th April, at Aughton, then four
at North Duffield Carrs on the 8th May with one there on the 14th September. Singles were at
Hornsea Mere on the 30th April and Hempholme on the 17th May with two at Hempholme on
the 26th April and at Grimston on the 20th May. In VC62, one at Cromer Point on the 22nd
April and one at Coatham Marsh on the 8th June whilst two were at Ness Point on the 6th May.
Angler’s CP [VC63], had singles on the 16th/17th and from the 22nd to 26th April then a
female on the 2nd May and a male from the 1 6th to 1 8th. Singles were at Thrybergh CP on the
17th April; Blacktoft Sands on the 19th, 20th and 27th April; Southfield Res. on the 27th April
and 3rd May; Denaby Ings on the 28th April and, finally, Wombwell Ings on the 5th/6th May.
In VC64, one at Swillington Ings on the 4th May; one or two [pair?] at Pool Paper Mills
between the 11th May and 8th June whilst nearby, at Otley GP, a female was paired to a male
M.f. flavissima [Yellow Wagtail] in late June. Two were at Nosterfield GP [VC65], on 7th May.
A singing male at South Gare, on the 8th June, showed mixed characteristics of this nominate
race, M.f. flava and the Grey-headed race, M.f. cinereocapilla.

One. with characteristics of the race M.f. cinereocapilla [Grey-headed Wagtail] was present at
Cromer Point on the 20th May. (MFr.).

One, with characteristics of the race M.f. beema [Syke’s Wagtail] was at Pulfin Bog between
the 14th and 17th April and again on the 19th (DHo).

A bird on the 26th April at Filey Dams showed some characteristics of Citrine Wagtail M.
citreola [Yorkshire Birding 5-2, 71] as did at least one bird present at Cowpen Marsh on Tees-
side the previous day.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea

Fairly common resident excepting in south-east; scarce passage migrant and winter visitor.
No records of breeding were received from VC61 whilst considered to be under-reported in
VC62 where seven pairs bred, five in the Scarborough area and two at Lockwood Beck. In
VC63, comprehensive coverage of all areas was not achieved, however, at least 15 pairs were
recorded breeding in the Halifax and Barnsley areas but only one, at Broomhill Ings, in
the Doncaster area [which may have also been included with Barnsley], The Sheffield Bird
Study Group considered this species to be increasing in their area with breeding confirmed at
19 locations [although some may have been in Derbyshire], including two pairs within the
town of Rotherham. Seven pairs were found in SK58 of which four were successful. No change
in breeding status was reported from VC64 and no comments received from VC65.

One to three individuals were occasionally reported at Spurn during both winter periods whilst
the species was not reported from the LDNNR in spring and only occasionally from the 21st
September with peaks of nine on the 14th October and then up to ten in November. Both Filey
and Flamborough had few during the early months but more during the latter though few
details were received from Filey. Flamborough had a good autumn with birds regularly
recorded from late August with three on the 28th then, in September, 1 1 on the 8th; six on the
11th and seven on both the 14th and 22nd thereafter singles occasionally in October and
November but six were present on the 20th October. TLNR reported a normal year being absent
from late May to mid-August with up to three regularly but seven were recorded on 27th April
and at least five on the 18th August. The maximum number reported from VC63 was 13 at
Worsbrough Res. on both the 25th and 28th August whilst, in VC64, numbers were normal but
during hard weather towards the end of the year birds were recorded visiting suburban gardens
in four areas of Leeds.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba

Common resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

As no significant comments were received on breeding status this is assumed to be unchanged.
In all areas the largest gatherings concerned feeding parties at either sewage farms/works and
reservoirs or winter roosts. In VC61, the LDNNR had up to 100 in the Wheldrake Ings/Bank
Island area during January though, as a result of freezing weather, 400 were at Wheldrake Ings

84

on the 27th. Only small numbers were then reported until autumn when 140+ were near
Melbourne on the 10th September with 147 on the 21st and 200 on the 3rd October. Good
numbers were present in December with a co-ordinated count of the whole valley revealing
some 620+ on the 22nd. No other location in this VC reported more than 100 whilst the roost
at Thornwick Bay [Flamborough], was regarded as low; 48 on the 28th September being the
maximum recorded. Peak counts at the only roosts reported from VC62 were 40 at Margrave
Ponds in March; 100 at Scaling Dam on 17th August and 50+ at Saltburn on the 13th
September.

In VC63, some 250 were present at Marley SW during the whole of January; 150 were at a
roost in Huddersfield Civic Centre on the 10th February with 200 there on the 9th March whilst
80 were at Dinnington SW on the 3rd. During the latter months. 80 were at Dewsbury SF on
the 23rd August then, in September, 100+ at Lindholme Prison on the 14th with 130 at
Dinnington SW on the 29th. Roosts in October saw 1 10 at Huddersfield Civic Centre on the
10th; 70 at Denaby Ings on the 26th whilst south to south-westerly passage over the Pennines
peaked with 70 at Rod Moor on the 1st and 64 on the 1 3th. Up to 100 roosted in Sheffield City
Centre during November; 130 at Potteric Carr on the 8th whilst between 80 and 160 were in
Halifax Town Centre from the 18th to the 24th [this roost moved to a Christmas tree erected
on the 30th but abandoned it on the 1 st December when tree lights were switched on] . 100 were
at Low Barugh SF on the 20th December.

200+ were at Lemmonroyd SF [VC64], in late January with 100+ there in mid-March. In
autumn, up to 100 were reported from several sites and, then, in winter, 100+ were at Harrogate
SF from October to December with 200 to 300 at a pre-roost gathering at Rossett High School
[Harrogate],

Individuals of the nominate race M.a. alba [White Wagtail] were reported in small numbers at
many locations in spring, one to three being usual but four were at Spurn on the 28th March;
seven at Thrybergh CP on the 15th April; nine at Blacktoft Sands on the 22nd and eight at
Skelton Lake on the 25th. Ten were at Nosterfield GP on the 1st May with four at Spurn on the
3rd and four at Flamborough on the 11th.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus

Irruptive visitor in late autumn and winter; occasionally quite common.

A massive influx occurred during the early part of the year with birds being reported on the 1st
January in the east when four were at both Spurn and Flamborough whilst a small flock was
present, from 1995, at Robin Hood’s Bay, increasing to 14 by the 6th. Five were at TLNR on
the 3rd with eight at Ruswarp on the 5th when 30 were reported from Spurn; 13 were at
Guisborough on the 6lh plus up to 30 in one area of Whitby during the early days of this month
and, in Hull, eight were present throughout the month. 32 were at Spurn on the 7th; 23 on the
10th; 16 on the 1 Ith; 14 on the 13th and 31 on the 1 4th. As the month progressed parties of up
to 35 were quite widespread along the coast and, inland, birds were reported from the LDNNR
where 15 were near Wheldrake on the 14th and between 25 and 30 at Bubwith on the 20th. The
first small parties were reported from VC64 on the 9th and 10th and, in VC63, in the Bradford
area, on the 9th, the Huddersfield area by the 1 1th and Doncaster by the 17th. [no first dates
were received from Sheffield]. Excepting 120 at Hemlington [Middlesbrough] on the 27th
January the first really large gatherings did not occur until February with the eastern part of the
county generally not featuring prominently though 60 were in Scarborough on the 2nd
February; 51 at Filey [29 in the town and 22 flying south]; 120 at Pickering on the 14th on
which date 65 were in Hull, and up to 70 at Yarm during the latter pari of February. In the York
area 100 were at Clifton Moor from the 12th to 18th with 60 at Rawcliffe on the 17th/18th
whilst 120 were near Rawcliffe Lake and the surrounding estate on the 21st when 65 were also
at Copmanthorpe. 60 were at Arksey on the 1 1th with 53 there on the 13th whilst the first very
large flock, of some 500 birds, was at Walkley [Sheffield] on the 12th then 300 at Sharrow [also
Sheffield] on the 14th and, in Leeds City Centre, 400 to 450 were reported on the 18th; 127 at
Norton Lees on the 27th then 300 at Bents Green on the 29th. Also reported in February, though
no dates given, were 121 in Northallerton; 60 in Thirsk; 75 in Richmond with 24 at a second
site nearby. Parties of up to 25 were reported from many locations during this month plus the

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following slightly larger gatherings; at Knottingley, with 30 on the 4th; 40 near Halifax on both
the 9th and 24th; 40 in Huddersfield on the 14th; 29 at one location in Elland on the 16th with
62 at a different part on the 21st whilst 40 were seen going to roost in trees near Langsett Res.
on the 24th.

Large gatherings continued through March with, on the 1st. 300 at Broomhall [Sheffield] and
100 at Allerton Road [Bradford]; 100 on the 2nd at Shipton Road [York], then, on the 3rd, 146
in the Greengates area of Bradford; 268 at Canal Road, also Bradford and 60 at Rawcliffe. On
the 4th, 83 were recorded in the Hemlington/Guisborough area then 30 at Ferry Fryston on the
8th. 150 at Kirkstall [Leeds] and, on the 10th, 200 at Greenland Estate [Sheffield] with 120 at
Austerfield on the 11th. On the 15th, 160 were present at Wrose [Bradford]; on the 19th, 200+
were near Famley Balance Res.; 91 at Vernon Avenue [Huddersfield] and 101 at Bawtry Road
[Doncaster], these last birds being present until the 21st. 50+ were in Hull on the 23rd then, on
the following day, 45 at Brayton Barff. Towards the end of this month, 40 were at Clifton Moor
on the 27th; 68 at Knottingley on the 28th; 82 at Edderthorpe on the 29th then, on the 30th; 40
at Hemlington [Middlesbrough] and 50 at Lindley [Huddersfield] with 48 at Knottingley on the
31st. Up to 122 were also reported in Harrogate during this month.

In Doncaster, during early April, several small parties were reported but on the 9th, 250 were
grounded in dull, misty weather, at one location with an unprecedented 500 there the following
morning then, as weather conditions improved, numbers decreased to 200 by the afternoon of
the 10th with 160 on the 1 1th. Thereafter, excepting 70 on the 15th. counts were in excess of
100 until the 19th. Elsewhere, in the Gresley Road area, a flock of between 24 and 60 was
present from the 7th to the 20th, however, 210 were there on the 16th. A similar sized flock was
also seen in the Railport area peaking with 82 on the 17th. On the 19th. 90 were in Wickersley,
this being the last large flock reported in the Doncaster area after which birds departed quite
quickly with the last one being seen on the 30th, at Broomhill Ings. Elsewhere, in April, c.100
were in the Thurcroft area during the early days whilst 65 were in Rowntrees' grounds [York]
on the 4th; 30+ were at Five Lane Ends [Bradford] on the 11th then, on the 14th, 100 at Dore
[Sheffield] and 25 at West Melton on the 20th with c. 75 reported on several dates in the
OwlthorpeAVaterthorpe area [Sheffield] towards the latter part of the month.

The last of this invasion were seen at Skelton Castle on the 10th May and near Barnsley on
the 13th. Throughout the whole of this invasion only one bird was reported from the
Wakefield area.

An account of this invasion in the Doncaster area may be found in the Doncaster Bird Report
1996.

By comparison, the records from the latter months paled into insignificance with the events of
the early months though, in normal years, this would not have been the case. The first were
reported along the coast, in early November, when singles were seen at Flamborough on the
9th then, on the 10th, at Spurn when two were also at TLNR and 16 arrived in VC62, these last
remaining until the 15th. Three were at Flamborough on the 11th then three at Whitby on the
13th followed by up to nine at Spurn until the 17th. Further inland, one was seen at Angler’s
CP on the 14th with five at Ewden on the 16th then one at Idle [Bradford] on the 19th. On the
26th, one at Blackburn Meadows with another at nearby North Anston; one at Flamborough on
the 27th; four at Wheldrake on the 29th and three at Hillfoot on the 30th. In the east, 20 were
at both Nunthorpe and Thomaby-on-Tees during the latter days of the month whilst up to 35
were seen near Scalby. In the Sheffield area small numbers were reported on 16 occasions
between the 26th November and the end of the year with eight in Rotherham [no date] and 35
at Sharrow on the 26th December moving to Broomhall on the 29th. One at Scawthorpe
[Doncaster] was the only record for that area during these latter months. A large flock built up
at Hemlington [Middlesbrough] from the 20th peaking with 168 on the 26th December when
1 1 were also at Sutton-on-Derwent then 25 at Thorganby on the 30th. In VC64. only ten reports
were received from eight locations between the 15th November and the end of the year. Most
of these were of less than ten but 19 were in Ilkley increasing to 25 by the 6th December and
between 12 and 30 were at Timble in late December.

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Dipper Cinclus cinclus

Well represented resident on the higher ground; Continental race a very rare winter visitor.
Not recorded in VC61. One pair bred at Golden Grove near Ruswarp [VC62], whilst possibly
a further seven pairs bred or were assumed to have so done, at five locations in this VC.

In the Sheffield area of VC63 this species is now reported more from the lower reaches of
rivers and streams than formerly whilst a rather unusual record concerned one flying into the
roof of a stand at Hillsborough during a Sheffield Wednesday game. Elsewhere breeding
records were received from all societies covering the Pennine areas with, in particular, between
12 and 15 pairs along the upper reaches of the R. Don. Widely, but thinly, distributed
throughout much of the northern and western river systems of VC64 though no concise details
were given: one at Barden Reservoir was, however, considered unusual. No records were
received from VC65.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes

Abundant resident; passage migrant in small numbers.

The general consensus was of an increase, benefiting from another relatively mild winter.
Several locations state this species to be under-reported but also plentiful. In VC61 a survey
around TLNR gave some 49 pairs of which at least 23 were on the Reserve. In VC63, counts
in the Doncaster area gave 15 singing males at Broomhill Ings: Old Denaby, seven singing
males; Potteric Carr. 40 pairs in the two CBC plots'. Thome Ashfield, 18 pairs and Wilsic, 25.
26 were in Lislerdale Wood [Sheffield], on the 19th April; 28 singing males at Blackburn
Meadows and 29 counted on a transect walk in the Rivelin valley on the 24th May. The only
record from VC64 was of 32 singing males in Gledhow Valley Woods [Leeds], on the 9th May.
Few migrants noted at Flamborough in spring but, in September. 40 were present on the 21st
with 25 the following day. No counts were made in October owing to the lack of fall
conditions.

Dunnock Prunella modularis

Abundant resident and autumnal passage migrant.

Overall there appears to be little or no change in status from the previous year. Counts received
from the Doncaster area [VC63], were; Broomhill Ings, 12 singing males; Potteric Cam, 18
pairs in the CBC plots; Wilsic, 25 pairs and Thorne Ashfields, 18 pairs, whilst, in the Sheffield
area, Blackburn Meadows had 28 on the 5th May with some 30 being counted in Listerdale
Wood on the 27th February.

Stated as “common except on moorland" in VC64. Some 40 pairs were counted in the Skelton
Lake/Swillington Ings area whilst a leucistic bird was at High Batts NR in March.

As with the previous species, numbers along the coast were well below average with, at
Flamborough, 80 on the 21 st September and 45 on the 22nd. One caught here in late September
was carrying a Norwegian ring [no further details].

Robin Erithacus rubecula

Abundant resident and autumnal passage migrant.

A breeding bird survey of SK58 showed a relatively small decline, about 3%, otherwise all
comments received were of a common and widespread species. Breeding numbers in the
Doncaster area were on a par with the previous species; 26 singing males at Broomhill Ings;
Potteric Carr. 28 pairs in the two CBC plots; Wilsic, 30 pairs and Thorne Ashfields, 33 singing
males. Listerdale Wood [Sheffield], had the highest count in that area with 28 on the 2 1 st April.
The “Parks Survey” carried out in the Sheffield area found this species breeding at 22 sites thus
being one of the commonest breeding species. A count at Gledhow Valley Woods [Leeds],
resulted in 36 singing males on the 9th May.

A small autumnal influx was noted in VC63 though nowhere were numbers exceptional. Along
the coast, the main influx, again small, came in mid-October when birds, assumed to be of the
nominate race E.r. rubecula were reported. Filey had a maximum of 50 on the 25th whilst
Flamborough reported counts of 30 on the 20th; 50 on the 21st; 25 on the 22nd and 40 the
following day. Interestingly. Spurn reported maxima of 75 on both the 22nd and 23rd
September.

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Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos

Breeds in very small numbers in the south; very rare passage migrant.

Birds were reported, between the 21st April and the 9th June, from Thome Moors where five
males held territories in dense woodland along the edge of the moors.

Elsewhere, singles were recorded at Kilnsea on the 20th April; Farnham GP on the 5th; Thorpe
Marsh on the 13th and at Spurn on the 19th May.

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica

Scarce passage migrant; most records occurring in spring.

The highlight of 1996 was the successful breeding of the White-spotted race L.s. cyanecula
which occurred at the Humberhead Peatlands NNR, on Thome Moors. This occurrence was not
only the first for Yorkshire but also for the United Kingdom. Three males with one. possibly
two, females summered; two broods were recorded being fed by the female(s). (PCR).

Males of the nominate race L.s. svecica. Red-throated Bluethroat, were reported from Spurn
between the 10th and 12th May with another on the 18th and from Flamborough on the 19th.
Females, not attributable to race, were at Flamborough on the 1 7th and Spurn on the I8th/I9th.
A female at Flamborough on the 17th April may. taking into account the very early date, have
been of the White-spotted race L.s. cyanecula. Inland, a female was present at Silsden [VC64],
from the 8th to the 1 1th May.

A poor autumn with singles at Spurn, a male, on the 22nd/23rd September and a first-winter
individual at Flamborough on the 27th. Inland, a single at Blacktoft Sands on the 22nd
September.

Black Redstart Pheonicurus ochruros

Rare resident breeder and uncommon passage migrant.

A poor year in the Sheffield area where only a single male was observed, singing and holding
territory at a former breeding site. A second male was heard singing, briefly, in suitable habitat,
on the 12th May but was not seen subsequently. In the Doncaster area, a singing male was
present at the disused Thorpe Marsh Power Station between the 31st March and the 17th April
whilst a female was seen at Southfield Res. on the 19th April. A male over-wintered near
Flamborough lighthouse being reported on the 28th January then on nine dates in February and
nine in March.

Along the coast, in spring, one was at Spurn on the 16th March then four on the 23rd with five
the following day thereafter birds were reported almost daily to the 25th April peaking with
eight on the 7th. One or two occasionally then, in May, followed by a single on the 8th June.
Singles were recorded on six dates in late March, at Kilnsea; two on the 8th April and singles
again on the 1 1 th and 1 3th. Two were reported at Grimston on both the 3rd and 1 1 th April with
one remaining to the 15th. The first migrant, at Flamborough, was seen on the 24th March after
which birds were recorded on 12 dates in April including seven on the 8th; three on both the
13th and 14th then six on the 15th; two were present on the 6th May with singles on the 5th
and 12th. Further north, one was at Scarborough between the 19th and 24th March with up to
five individuals in the Boulby area from the 5th to the 8th. Singles were at Whitby on the 1 3th
and at both Hawsker and Whitestone Point on the 2 1 st. In May. there were single birds at Filey,
on both the 1st and 27th, and at South Gare on the 24th. Inland, one was at North Duffield Carrs
on the 26th May.

There were fewer records, during the latter months, with Spurn having one from the 9th to 13th
July then, in October, one from the 12th to the 14th; four on the 15th with one to three then
regularly between the 16th and 27th. In November, one was reported on the 2nd/3rd with
another from the 14th to the 18th. One was in Kilnsea on the 15th October then two from the
25th to 28th whilst, in November, one was seen on the 13th with two on the 1 6th/l 7th and one,
again, on the 18th. A very poor autumn at Flamborough where singles on the 26th August and
19th and 23rd October were the only records. Three were at South Gare from the 20th to 28th
October whilst two were at Boulby on the 7th November otherwise all other records concerned
singles; at Port Mulgrave on the 15th October; Filey on the 18th and 23rd; then, in November,
at South Gare, on the 2nd and at Cornelian Bay on the 25th.

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There were few inland records, in VC6 1 , a female was at TLNR on the 26th October, and, in
VC63, an immature at Lindley Moor on the 29th September; one at Elland GP on the 13th
December and then, a first-winter bird at Swaithe [Worsbrough valley] on the 21st.

Redstart Pheonicurus phoenicurus

Well distributed summer visitor though absent from the south-east. Passage migrant, more
common in autumn.

The first of the year was reported from Skell Gill Bridge [VC64], on the 5th April followed by
one at Scarborough on the 6th with birds recorded on territory in Langdale Forest on the 8th.
One was at Broomhill Ings on the 10th then two at Long Sandall on the 11th.

Spring passage, along the coast, was generally light with maxima of ten at Filey on the 19th
May and seven at Flamborough on the same date; Spurn, conversely, recorded a record spring
count of 20 on this date and eight on the 4th.

Birds had returned to breeding sites, in VC63, by early May with the Sheffield area reporting
a good year; about normal breeding numbers were present in the Barnsley area whilst both
Halifax and Huddersfield reported moderate numbers. No comment was received from VC64
where breeding, as usual, was confined to the more northern parts of the VC whilst it was
considered to have been a poor breeding year in Swaledale [VC65], No comments were
received from VC62.

The main autumn passage, along the coast, occurred between the 1 7th and 24th September with
31 at Spurn on the 17th; 13 at Kilnsea on the 19th then, the following day, 57 at Spurn and 50
at Filey. The 21st saw peak numbers, at most locations, with 25 near Whitby; 20 at Filey; 70
at Flamborough; 20 at Atwick; 20 at Easington and 1 1 8 at Spurn whilst several other locations
reported up to ten. Numbers then decreased, however, with 48 at Flamborough on the 22nd
then 50 on the 23rd and 31 on the 25th. Few were present in October, generally singles but six
were at Spurn on the 1st with three on the 2nd then one to three occasionally until the 15th.
Late birds, inland, were singles at Kings Cross [Halifax], on the 26th September; Paul Clough
[Bradford], on the 27th and Netherwood [Barnsley], on the 29th. Along the coast, several
locations reported individuals into October with Spurn and Filey having their last on the 15th;
Flamborough on Ihe 20th and South Gare on the 26th [two birds one of which was dead],

Whinchat Scixicola rubetra

Summer visitor quite widespread but absent from the south-east. Passage migrant most
common in autumn.

An exceptionally early bird was at Whetstone Quarry [Bradford, VC64], on the 28th March,
being the third earliest ever for the county. [Thrybergh CP, 23 February 1990; Fairburn Ings,
26 March 1 989 and Redcar, 28 March 1 906]. The next to be reported was at Strines Top on the
17th April followed by birds at Southfield Res. on the 19th then, on the following day, at
Thorne Moors; Broomhill Ings and Pugney's CP. The first to arrive on the coast did so on the
22nd, at Port Mulgrave.

Spring passage echoed that of Redstart with both Filey reporting light movements, six at
Flamborough on the 19th May being the peak, however, at Spurn, seven were reported on the
11th with 18 on the 1 9th.

Only seven pairs were reported breeding in VC62 which can only be a fraction of the true total.
In VC63, numbers were down in the Sheffield area with none confirmed in the east; stated as
“in decline" on Thorne Moors whilst only one pair bred in the Doncaster area, at Blaxton GP.
Continues to decline in the Huddersfield area, in some parts due to "habitat improvement”
[removal of gorse etc.]\ a similar comment to that made by the Doncaster & District Om.
Society last year. There would, in the absence of comments, appear to be little change in the
Halifax area whilst the species is now restricted, as a breeding bird, in the Barnsley area, to the
south-west moorlands. A good breeding season was reported from the VC64 area around
Bradford though no comments were forth coming from other areas of that VC nor from VC65.
Autumn passage, generally, was uneventful with 36 at Spurn on the 28th August though very
few were recorded elsewhere and then, in September, maxima were 23 at Spurn on the 5th; 20
on the 9th; 19 on the 18th and 21 on the 21st; at Flamborough, 15 on the 20th; Kilnsea, 15 on

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the 4th and Sunk Island, six on the 20th. Inland, up to 1 1 were occasionally reported at several
[no details] sites in VC63 and, likewise, up to seven in VC64.

The last of the year, inland, were at Norwood Lane [VC64], on the 1st October; Harden Moor
[VC64], on the 5th and Barnside Moor on the 10th with the last at Sunk Island remaining to
the 14th whilst, on the coast, two lingered at Filey until "mid-October” [no dates reported],

Stonechat Saxicola torquata

Rare breeding resident confined to the west; uncommon autumn and winter visitor
elsewhere.

A slightly disappointing situation in the Sheffield area, where breeding was reported from four
sites, though birds were present at other suitable locations, whilst the three pairs reported from
the Barnsley area were included in these four [recording areas over-lap], A poor year for this
species in the Halifax area with no proven breeding against two to four pairs in 1995. Breeding
was also not proven in the Huddersfield area where one pair bred in 1995. There were no
reports of successful breeding from any other area of Yorkshire although a pair were present at
Fylingdales from mid-June to the end of July with a male being reported from llkley Moor on
the 21st June.

Spurn reported single birds on three dates in March with three on the 23rd and four the
following day. One or two were there daily during the latter half of September but three were
recorded on the 18th, thereafter, one or two, occasionally, in October then one on the 16th
November. Along the Humber, a male was at Patrington Haven on the 4th January with singles
at Sunk Island on the 3rd February and 27th October, One was at Grimston on the 1 5th April
whilst, further north on the coast, singles were at Filey on three occasions during the early
months; on four at Scarborough and three at Whitby; one of these, at the last location, being
the wintering bird from 1995 which remained to the 30th January. All autumn records were of
single birds; at South Gare on the 27th September and 28th October; Scarborough on the 15th
September and 6th November and at Filey on the 27th October.

The first passage birds at Flamborough were in March when two were seen on the 1 0th; 24th
and 30th with singles also reported on the 21st April and the 5th/6th May. During the latter
months, only singles were seen on the 14th and 22nd September; 8th, 17th, 20th and 22nd
October then a male near the lighthouse from the 8th to 31st December. It is considered that
most, if not all, of these birds were of the Continental race S. t. rubicola as was the bird at Spurn
on the 14th April.

Inland, in VC61, a male remained, at Wheldrake Ings, from 1995 until the 7th February with
two males there front the 12th to 17th October and another male on the 3rd November. Grave
concern was expressed for the status of this species in the Doncaster area [VC63], where
records were very few; a pair was at Denaby Ings on the 10th January; a male at Thrybergh CP
on the 28th/29th February and a female there from the 21st to 23rd March were all that were
reported. Birds wintered at some ten upland sites in this VC during the early months, all but
one being singles, and at six sites during the later months, again, all singles, excepting four at
Agden in November/December. There was evidence of passage in March, at seven sites,
involving one to three at all locations, and in September/October, at six with one to five birds
involved.

During the early months, one or two birds were reported, up to the 4th April, from 13 locations,
in VC64, but only one bird was reported during the latter months, at Norwood Lane, on the
12th October.

A male, present at Filey on the 5th and 6th May, was trapped and ringed and, on biometrics,
was found to be of one of the eastern races S. t. maura/stejnegeri , known colloquially as
“Siberian Stonechat” (PJD et al) whilst a first-winter female, attributed to this race, was at
Flamborough on the 23rd September (PAL: PJW). This last record has, as yet, not been
submitted to the BBRC.

Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe

Widespread summer visitor to the west and north and common passage migrant.

The first of the year were all in VC64; at Harthill Res. on the 15th March; Penistone on the
17th then, at Ogden, on the 19th with the first away from this VC arriving, on the 23rd, at

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Spurn [VC61], and Bolton-on-Swale [VC65]. Many locations had recorded their first birds by
the end of the month with widespread passage occurring in April when peaks of 20 at Boulby
on the 7th; 23 at Spurn on the 10th and, at Flamborough, 29 on the 17th and 25 on the 20th,
occurred. On the 21st, 63 were at Ness Point; 18 at Hawsker; 17 at Saltwick Nab; 18 at Filey;
40 at Flamborough and 30 at Spurn. 26 were reported from Flamborough on the 27th. In May,
ten to 30 were present, almost daily, at Spurn with a peak of 48 on the 19th, on which date, 28
were present at Flamborough and 16 near Easington though, on the 3rd, 20 were also at
Easington. Away from the coast, 22 were at Broomhill Ings on the 20th April whilst c. 16 were
at TLNR on the 21st when 24 were at Wheldrake Ings with 17 there the following day and,
finally, 23 on Thome Moors on the 26th.

Comments received on breeding status were sparse; the few records received from the
Sheffield area indicating a continuing decline though elsewhere, along the South Pennines,
status would appear to be normal.

In the autumn, 21 were at Spurn on the 29th August though the main passage occurred during
the latter half of September with 20 to 50 present there on most days peaking with 94 on the
23rd. A similar situation was noted at Flamborough where 45 were reported on the 3 1 st August
and then, in September, 52 on the 1 9th; 60 on the 20lh with 85 on the 21st and 52 on the 22nd.
18 were at Grimston on the 18th whilst north of Flamborough, 22 were recorded at Whitestone
Point on the 20th when a similar count was reported from Ness Point. On the 21st, 15 were at
Scarborough and 20 at Filey. Little evidence of passage was noted inland with 24 at Fly Flatts
Res. on the 3rd August as the only significant record received.

Small numbers were reported well into October with the last along the coast being at
Flamborough on the 25th; Kilnsea and Filey on the 27th and at South Gare on the 28th whilst
inland one remained at Skelton Lake from the 15th to the 29th.

Individuals considered to be of the Greenland race O.o. leucorhoa were reported from several
locations in spring, invariably singles, and from only one in autumn, Eccup Res. on the 14th
October. Three birds, trapped and ringed, at Finningley Park [VC63], between the 27th April
and the 3rd May, were proven, on biometrics, to be of this race.

Pied Wheatear Oenanthe pleschanka

Accidental from western Russia; three records [of two birds]; at Flamborough in 1988 and
Spurn, being relocated at Scarborough, in 1991.

A first-winter male at Flamborough on 26th November (PAL). Not yet submitted to the BBRC.
Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus

Well represented summer visitor to the higher ground; passage migrant elsewhere.

There were several records in January, all of single birds, at Barden |VC64], on the 2nd;
Flamborough ott the 2nd, remaining to the 3rd; Skelton Castle [VC62], from the 3rd until the
10th and Port Mulgrave, on the 10th. In February, one at Filey on the 4th; near Richmond on
the 5th; Thurcroft [VC63], on the 10th; Wilton [VC62], from the 17th to the 24th and at High
Catton |VC61], on the 23rd. A male at Aughton [VC61], on the 10th March may have been a
genuine migrant though the birds at Denaby on the 24th; in Colsterdale on the 25th and at
Thruscross and Spurn on the 26th were more typical of first arrivals. Arrivals in VC63 were
generally considered to have been a little late with the first (Denaby excepted] at three locations
on the 30th.

Spring passage was generally light with eight at Boulby on the 17th April as the maximum
reported.

Bred in VC63 where four to six pairs were reported from the Halifax area; at least four in the
Huddersfield area though two sites were not checked whilst five or six pairs were recorded in
the Sheffield/Barnsley area. Bred as usual in VC64 but, in VC62, no details were received from
the North York Moors, though known to have bred.

In the autumn, 18 were on Burley Moor on the 27th August whilst, along the coast, numbers
reported were generally less than three but five were at Spurn on the 19th September with 13
there on the 21 st when nine were at Flamborough. Seven at Spurn on the 22nd then, in October,
eight on the 20th with up to five until the 26th. Occasionally recorded in November with

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singles at Whetstone Quarry on the 2nd; Flamborough on the 3rd; one or two daily at Spurn
until the 7th then one at Sutton-on-Derwent on the 14th and two at Warthill on the 29th. A male
was present at Ovenden Wood [VC63], between the 6th and 9th December.

Blackbird Turdus merula

Abundant resident; passage migrant and common winter visitor.

All areas that commented, excepting SK58, indicated no change in breeding status. SK58,
however, where a survey was carried out, reported a decline of about 13% on the previous year.
Numbers, in the early winter months, were normal excepting a small influx in early January
associated with adverse weather. 100 were at Flamborough on the 1st whilst Spurn had up to
45 during the early part of the month being reflected inland where 300 were at TLNR on the
10th whilst 43 at Thornton Ellers on the 21st and 53 at Thorganby on the 29th were considered
noteworthy. A slight increase in numbers was evident along the coast in spring though no
outstanding totals were recorded.

Early autumn was quiet with the First fall occurring in mid-October then, towards the end of
that month, larger numbers arrived with 100 at Filey on the 22nd; 300 on the 23rd and 400 on
the 24th on which date 150 were at Flamborough and 170 at Spurn. The 30th saw 2000 at both
Flamborough and Spurn though no total was reported from Filey. 100 to 200 were then
recorded during the first part of November at Spurn but higher numbers were at Flamborough
with peaks of 520 on the 14th; 2700 the following day and 250 on the 18th. Only small
numbers were at both locations thereafter.

Inland few comments were received but. in VC63, many sites had up to 50 birds; 50 to 100 at
some 12 locations and 100+ at four with 120 at Broomhill Ings on the 16th November and 150
at Wilsic in late October. In VC64, 80 were at Ripon on the 29th November with 70 at Hay-a-
Park GP on the 21st December and 50 at Farnhant GP on the 26th.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris

Very common passage migrant and winter visitor; occasionally breeds.

At least one bird was present, at one site in VC65, during the breeding season.

Very large numbers were reported during January. 10,570 were in the Derwent valley on the
6th; TLNR having 600 to 1500 in this first week but c.2000 on the 7th whilst up to 14 sites, in
VC63, held between 1000 and 1700 during the first two weeks of the month with 2250 at
Broomhill lngs on the 6th and 3000 near Ingbirchworth on the 14th. Very heavy southerly
movements were recorded, in VC63. between the 3rd and 14th with daily totals [taking into
account duplications] of c.5000 on the 7th; c. 12,000 on the 8th [including c.8000 over South
Anston]; 6000 on the 9th [with 4000 over Thrybergh CP]; 8000 on the 10th [3000 over both
South Anston and Thorne Moors]; 3000 on the 1 2th and 4500 on the 1 3th of which 3600 were
in the Idle valley. In VC64, 3000 were at Staveley NR on the 4th and, in VC65. 1000 at
Leighton on the 7th. On the coast, up to 1000 passed southwards daily, at Spurn during the first
week plus 2500 on the 3rd and 1800 on the 7th; Flamborough had 600 on the 1st and 550 on
the 7th. Up to 1000 were along the Humber, at Sunk Island, in mid-month and then, on the 21st,
c. 1000 were near Marton [VC61 ], on which date 900 were at Filey; 1050 at Flamborough and
1 100 at Spurn. An immense gathering of 34,000 was at Wheldrake lngs on the 27th decreasing
to 7000 the next day. Large numbers were also widespread in February with 7100 at Wheldrake
Ings on the 11th; 2000 in the Bumiston area on the 15th though, generally, very few were
reported from coastal areas. In VC63, 1 3 sites reported gatherings of between 700 and 2000
with larger totals of 3000 at Edderthorpe on the 4th; 3000 at Womersley on the 6th and 5000
at Cubley, near Penistone, on the 18th. 3000 were in the Knostrop SF [VC64], area on the 7th
with a further four flocks of 1000+ in this VC. Generally totals were smaller in March though
in the Lower Derwent valley, 1300 were present on the 1st; 2300 on the 10th and 1350 on the
18th whilst, in VC63, several large gatherings were reported during the latter part of this
month, the maxima being 1500 at Ringinglow on the 26th; 800 at Midhopestones, also on the
26th and 1000 near Ingbirchworth on the 31st. These flocks were over-shadowed, however, by
the 6000 at the entrance of Colsterdale on the 24th. Most reports received for April were of
parties of less than 500 but, at Grimston, 1800 were present on the 1 1th with 1200 on the 15th

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[this last gathering considered to be new arrivals] whilst 1300 were along the Lower Derwent
on the 1st. One or two birds were occasionally reported from several sites in May with six at
TLNR on the 5th and then the last, singles, at Blacktoft Sands on the 15th and at Spurn on the
27th.

The first returning birds were reported from Bessacarr [VC63], on the 29th August; Treeton
Dyke [VC63], on the 31st then, in September, from Tong ]VC65], and Harrogate on the 6th.
The first to be recorded in the east was at Spurn on the 1 6lh. Few were reported anywhere until
the third week of October when 800 were at Whcldrake Ings on the 20th; 1 100 at Flamborough
on the 22nd when 550 were at Spurn and 950 at Filey. 600 were at Sunk Island on the 25th
then, on the 30th, 1700 at Flamborough; 2800 at Spurn and, inland, 1800 west over Thome
Moors; 1425 south-east over Redmires and 1605 south-west over Rod Moor whilst the
following day 1500 were near Newhouses [VC64J. In November, 740 at Sunk Island on the
2nd; 3500 at Wheldrake Ings between the 6th and 8th then 4000 there from the 17th to the 21st
whilst, at Welton [VC61], “thousands were feeding, with Redwings, on Haws” on the 15th.
Further inland, 1755 flew west over Wilsic on the 14th. In the east, in December, generally only
small numbers were reported excepting 3100 on the 21st at Wheldrake Ings but, in VC63.
larger gatherings were reported than during November with flocks of 1000 to 1500 at South
Elmsall on the 15th; Denaby Ings on the 22nd; Firsby Res. on the 24th; Thrybergh CP on the
29th and, throughout the month, at Wilthorpe Marsh. Peak counts in this VC were 2700 at
Redhouse Park [Doncaster] on the 15th; 1800 at Broomhill Ings on the 25th and 2500 at
Edderthorpe on the 27th.

A leucistic [“dove-grey”] individual was at Easby Abbey [VC65], on the 26th December.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos

Common but decreasing resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Comments concerning the status of this species were slightly conflicting with many societies
now requesting increased reporting. Stated as apparently declining overall in the Sheffield area
where numbers in the Public Parks definitely declined with breeding confirmed at only six
sites. Some decline was reported from the Halifax area where the distribution is described as
“thin”, however 25 males were reported at Hardcastle Crags on several dates in spring. A
decline was also reported from SK58. In both the Huddersfield and Bradford area [of VC63]
status was maintained whilst, in the Barnsley area, this species is thought to be under-reported
though well distributed. A slight recovery was reported from some sites in the Doncaster area
where ten pairs were present at Thome Ashfields and 1 1 at Wilsic. Also reported as showing
some signs of slight increase in parts of VC64 where 26 singing males were counted at
Gledhow Valley Woods [Leeds], on the 9th May. The only comment received concerning VC61
was from TLNR where at least 12, possibly 15, pairs bred, which would indicate a
consolidation of status.

A poor year at Flamborough with only small numbers during the early months; a situation
echoed at all other coastal sites. An influx occurred in mid-September with 50 at Spurn on the
17th then 70 on the 19th and 150 at Flamborough on the 20th when 40+ were at Ness Point.
160 at Flamborough on the 21st when 50 were at Filey; 150 at Spurn and at least 400 at Sunk
Island, along the Humber, where birds were reported arriving ail day. An estimated 200 moved
through Filey between the 22nd and 24th October though other locations recorded smaller
numbers. Few were reported during the last two months. Peak counts reported from inland
locations were 17 at High Batts NR on the 7th January; 40 at Thorpe Marsh on the 23rd
January; 26 at Middleton Hospital [VC64], on the 21st September and 30+ at Stainbrough on
the 10th October.

Redwing Turdus iliacus

Very common passage migrant and winter visitor; very occasionally recorded in summer.
This species mirrored Fieldfare, during the early months, with many locations reporting flocks,
the largest of which were along the LDNNR where 7300 were recorded on the 6th January
declining to 2500 by the end of the month after which 2900 were present on the 1 1 th February
and 500 on the 10th March. Peak counts along the coast were 300 at Filey on the 9th January

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and 200 at Spurn on the 6th. In VC63, 1000 were at Thrybergh CP on the 9th January with a
similar number at Knottingley on the 1 1th whilst 400 flew south at Blackburn Meadows on the
14th. In February, 1000+ were reported from Womersley on the 6th with up to 500 at Studley
Royal during that month. Generally only light spring passage was noted with 170 at Wheldrake
Ings on the 1st April; 1 79 at Wintersett Res. on the 8th when 105 were at Flamborough. On the
11th, however. 1500 were reported at Grimston; 600 at Spurn and 510 at Filey, a movement not
noted at Flamborough. 1000 were at Grimston on the 15th after which only small numbers
were reported with the last being at Flamborough on the 27th May and Spurn on the 28th whilst
“small numbers persisted to the end of May" at Filey though no specific dates were reported.
An unusual record was of an adult, in heavy moult, trapped at Dane's Dyke. Flamborough, on
the 28th July.

The first of the autumn were “a few” at Tong [Bradford], on the 3rd September then three at
Flamborough on the 7th with the first, albeit small, influx towards the end of the month. In
October 750 were at Spurn on the 6th when 250 were at Flamborough but the main arrival
occurred between the 21st and the 25th with, on the 21st. 100+ at Spurn and 550 at
Flamborough then, on the 22nd, 350 at Grimston; 900 at Spurn and 1300 at Flamborough. On
the 30th, another influx was recorded giving 1550 at Flamborough and 1500 at Spurn.
Numbers, thereafter, along the coast were relatively small. Inland, in VC61. the numbers at the
LDNNR reflected the October influx with 1 20 at Wheldrake Ings on the 22nd. when heavy,
nocturnal, passage was also reported, and 400 on the 23rd. In November, 1900 were present
there on the 6th with 2400 between the 17th and 21st. Further inland, in VC63, west to south-
westerly passage was recorded over the Pennines with 732 at Redmires on the 1 1 th October
when 656 were seen at Rod Moor where 744 were counted on the 20th whilst, on this last date,
1500 flew south over Staveley NR. Flocks throughout the county during the last two months
were usually less than 500 excepting 1 100 at Wheldrake Ings on the 20th December and 570
in Redhouse Park [Doncaster], on the 3 1st.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus

Well distributed resident though scarce in the south-east; very scarce on passage.

Would appear to be increasing, albeit slowly, in the eastern [coastal], area, otherwise status
seems to be unchanged with, certainly, a healthy breeding population in the Doncaster area
where 15 pairs were present at Wilsic; six broods at Broomhill Ings and three pairs at Thorne
Ashfields. Very early breeding was reported in Leeds where a fledgling was seen, in the city
centre, on the 24th February.

23 at Filey, on the 24th March, was an unusual number and may have included migrant birds
otherwise, as usual, most records concerned post-breeding parties, generally smaller in the east
where the maximum along the coast was less than ten. Inland, in VC61, maxima were 41 at
TLNR on the 9th August with 37 there on the 29th September whilst, at the LDNNR. 36 were
at North Duffield on the 14th September. In VC62, peak counts were 30 at Lockwood Beck
Res. on the 6th August and 45 at Skelton Castle on the 10th October.

At least three flocks of between 34 and 38 were reported from the Barnsley area with the
following larger parties at other locations in VC63; 40 al Firsby Res. on the 17th July then, in
August, 43 at the RVCP on the 10th; 46 at Kilnhurst Brickyard on the 1 4th; 47 at Dewsbury
SF on the 25th; 55 at Crookes [Sheffield], on the 1 9th then 60 at Blackburn Meadows on the
4th September and 61 at Toad Holes Beck [Bradford], on the 29th September. Peak counts in
VC64 were 41 at Barden Scale on the 8th August; 29 at Ilkley on the 29th August and 29 at
Harrogate on the 5th September.

Lanceolated Warbler Locustella lanceolata

Accidental from central Siberia: one record , at Filey in 1994.

One, trapped, at Spurn, on 21st September. (BRS: NPW et al)

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia
Uncommon summer visitor and scarce passage migrant.

The first of the year was on the 10th April at Burton Riggs GP then, on the 18th, at both Elland

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GP and Blacktoft Sands with many locations recording their first arrival on the 20th/21st.
Comments on the status of this species varies with VC64 stating fewer and fewer records; loss
of habitat being a reason offered by several observers whilst one at Nosterfield GP, in late
April, was the only record for VC65. The overall breeding situation in VC63 appeared
satisfactory though, as with all areas, actual proof of breeding can be difficult. Breeding was
reported in this VC from Blacktoft Sands with 1 1 pairs; the Doncaster area where birds were
present at seven or eight sites; SK58 with four pairs; the Barnsley area with at least 15 pairs
plus a further three or four pairs at locations elsewhere in the VC. The only definite breeding
in VC64 was at Staveley NR. Probably bred at several sites in VC62 whilst, in VC6 1, definitely
bred at Filey and TLNR and probably did so at Pulfin Bog and Haverfield Ponds. Birds were
reported reeling at some locations up to the third week of August with occurrences into
September at several, the latest records being from Thorne Moors on the 14th September then
Spurn on both the 1 8th and 21st.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

Common breeding summer visitor and passage migrant.

One at Hay-a-Park GP [ VC64], on the 1 1th April was ten days in advance of the next in this
VC whilst the next to arrive, in the county, was at Wheldrake Ings on the 15th followed by two
at Blacktoft Sands on the 17th then Wykeham Lakes and TLNR on the 19th. On the 20th some
40 were present at Blacktoft Sands then 200+ at the LDNNR on the following day though, in
the east, generally, birds did not arrive for another week. Only light passage was noted along
the coast with peaks, on the 19th May, at Filey with seven, and Spurn with nine, then seven at
Flamborough on the 21st and eight at Spurn on the 25th.

Overall, breeding numbers were maintained excepting at Flamborough where a slight decrease
was reported. Considered to be grossly under-reported in VC6I with records only from TLNR,
c.67 pairs; Flamborough. c.26 pairs and Filey, "several pairs actually recorded breeding”. Ten
pairs, at Scarborough, was the only breeding record received fromVC62. Widespread, in VC63,
where peak breeding counts were 60 pairs at Blacktoft Sands; 41 singing males at Pugney’s CP
on the 25th May and 49 singing males at Broomhill Ings on the 18th May. A further 125 pairs
were reported from the Sheffield; SK58; Doncaster and Barnsley areas and along the Rivers
Calder and Aire. Similarly, in VC64. the peak counts were 15 singing at Hay-a-Park GP; 22 at
Staveley NR; 13 at Lowther Lake and 14 at Knostrop SF with a further 20 between these last
two locations.

Autumnal passage everywhere was reported as light with the last of the year being recorded
from Redmires on the 22nd September; Hay-a-Park GP on the 25th; Spurn on the 29th then, in
October, on the 1st at Wheldrake Ings and a very late individual at Flamborough on the 21st.
[This date is accepted as the latest for a migrant being equalled by birds at Wheldrake Ings in
1993 and at Hornsea Mere in 1961 though one over-wintered [?] at Elland GP being reported
between the 1 Ith and 23rd December 1993].

Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola

Accidental from western Russia; two records; at Flamborough in 1992 and Marske in 1994.

One, at Redcar, on 3 1st October. (EML; NAP et al).

Blyth’s Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum

Accidental from the Baltic eastwards; four records; Spurn in 1912, 1984; Filey in 1975 and
Flamborough in 1986.

One, at Filey, from 21st to 24th September. (DBy; DJS: CCT et al).

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris

Very scarce spring passage migrant.

Single, singing birds, were reported from Flamborough on 1st June (AMA) and Spurn on 4th
June.

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Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Widespread summer breeder though absent from the north and west. Uncommon passage
migrant.

Two, at both Blacktoft Sands and Old Denaby, on the 20th April, were the first of the year then,
on the following day, reported at Staveley NR; Hay-a-Park GP: LDNNR; TLNR; Pugney’s CP
and the Hemmingfield Canal (Barnsley].

Ail VCs commented that status has been maintained though not all areas were fully covered.
No counts or estimates were received from VC61 excepting TLNR where the 22 pairs were
considered to have been an under-estimate. In VC62, 1 1 pairs bred at Wykeham Lakes; four at
Seamer Road Mere [Scarborough]; two at West Ayton Ings; two at Margrove Ponds and four
at Coatham Marsh. An estimated 360 pairs were at Blacktoft Sands; 40 at Candy Farm
(Doncaster], with many others particularly in the Doncaster; Castleford and Barnsley areas.
Five pairs bred at May-a-Park GP [VC64]; ten at Staveley NR; 15 at Lowther Park with several
pairs at sites along the Aire valley. No comments were received from VC65.

Light passage was noted along the coast though the nine recorded at Spurn on the 23rd
September was a location record. The latest to be reported were at Flamborough on the 1st
October; in the Idle valley on the 2nd: Pulfin Bog on the 6th when another was at nearby
TLNR; Southfield Res. on the 1 0th then, finally, on the 1 4th at Wheldrake Ings.

One showing characteristics of the eastern race A. s. fuscus was seen at Flamborough on the
15th June (AMA: MN).

Olivaceous Warbler Hippolais pallida

Accidental from the Mediterranean/Middle East. One record , at Flamborough in 1976.

Following a reassessment of past records of this species by the British Birds Rarities
Committee, the record, at Flamborough on 22nd October 1976, is now considered to be
unacceptable and thus no longer appears on the Yorkshire List. [ British Birds 92: 595-596]

Booted Warbler Hippolais caligata

Very rare vagrant with ten records since the first in 1978; reported once in spring.

Two were present at Spurn from 20th to 22nd September. One of these individuals being ringed
and still present on the 23rd (BRS: NAL: MJP: MFS et at).

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina

Scarce passage migrant; more common in autumn.

Only one record in spring, a single at Spurn, on the 8th June.

The first of the autumn were singles at Spurn on the 26th and 27th August [considered as
different birds], then, at Filey on the 28th. which remained until the 8th September, and at
Flamborough on the 30th. In September, two were at Spurn on the 5th with another on the 7th
then, on the 8th. one at Kilnsea, which remained in the area until the 23rd, with another at
Flamborough. One at Spurn on the 10th with the next not appearing until the 18th, at
Whitestone Point. One at Flamborough, on the 20th was still present the following day being
joined by a further three, whilst one was also at Spurn. Another at Spurn on the 22nd and,
finally, one at Filey on the 23rd also being seen there the following day.

An individual seen at Spurn on the 1st September was either this species or Melodious Warbler.
Hippolais polyglotta.

Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans

Rare migrant with a spring bias; almost annual in recent years. 20 records since 1968.

One, a male, was present at Kilnsea on 12th May (PAn: DMW: JW1).

Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria

Scarce autumnal passage migrant; exceptionally scarce in spring.

One, at Flamborough, on the 26th August remained there until the 28th whilst one, at Kilnsea,
on the 31st was present on the 1st September. Two were at Filey on the 1st September one of
which remained until the following day. the other until the 3rd, on which date one was also
reported from Whitby. Two were at Spurn on the 5th with singles there also on the 6th and 7th.

96

One, at Kilnsea, on the 6th/7th with one, at Filey, on the 6th being present there until the 10th
whilst another was at Spurn on the 9th. The next was reported from Ness Point on the 14th
staying until the 16th then one at Flamborough the following day with further birds at
Flamborough on the 17th and 1 9th. One was at Spurn on the 20th staying until the following
day when it was joined by a further two individuals, one of these three remaining in the area
until the 26th. On the 21st, as well as the Spurn birds, two were at Flamborough and one at
Kilnsea whilst another was at Flamborough on the 24th.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca

Rather uncommon summer visitor; scarcer in north and west; passage migrant
One at West Tanfield on the 14th April was well ahead of the next, on the 20th, at Stocksmoor
Common [VC63], and Spurn, then, on the 21st, birds were reported from Firsby Res.; Thorpe
Marsh; Thome Moors; Broomhil! Ings and Flamborough. The main arrivals on the coast were
on the 6th May when 18 were at Spurn and five at Flamborough and, on the 19th, with eight
and six respectively. Inland, 20 were at Thornton Ellers [LDNNR] on the 8th. Few comments
were received on breeding status, however, those that did indicated a slight increase. Seven
pairs were recorded at Grimston; no more than two at TLNR and Spurn with only one at
Flamborough. No details were received from other locations in VC61. In VC63, about four
pairs were recorded in both the Huddersfield and Bradford areas though an estimated 36 pairs
were in the Barnsley area with 13 at Broomhill Ings [also included in the Doncaster area
numbers] and 12 at Wintersett Res. Some 20 pairs were reported from elsewhere in the
Doncaster area plus possibly four on Thorne Moors. Small numbers were reported from SK58;
the Sheffield and Castleford areas. A slight drop was recorded in the number of reports from
VC64 though the species was still considered widespread.

Light coastal passage during the autumn with the peak occurring on the 21st September when
eight were at both Spurn and Flamborough. The last of the year were at Firsby Res. [VC63],
on the 28th September; Cornelian Bay [Scarborough], on the 29th then, in October, at
Flamborough on the 1 3th; TLNR on the 17th; Flamborough on the 20th and Spurn on the
23rd/24th.

A single bird showing characteristics of the Siberian race S.c. blythi was recorded at
Flamborough on the 23rd September (PAL).

Whitethroat Sylvia communis

Widespread summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first arrivals were seen on the 14th April at Hatfield Moors and Firsby Res.; both VC63,
then, on the 17th, at Broomhill Ings; Everton Carr, both VC63, Filey [VC61] and Whitby
[VC62] and, on the 18th, at Great Preston [VC64] and Edderthorpe [VC63]. Numbers on the
coast built up rapidly with 32 at Flamborough on the 27th and 26 at Spurn on the 30th then, in
May, 22 at Sunk Island on the 5th; 31 at Flamborough on the 23rd and 35 at Grimston on the
26th.

All areas, that commented, reported an excellent breeding season. In VCI. TLNR recorded 36
pairs during the breeding bird survey on the 2nd June, this being a three-fold increase on 1995
which, in tum, was considered to have been a good year. A maximum of 58 singing males was
reported at Spurn in June whilst 42+ were at Grimston on the 9th July. No large counts were
reported from VC62 but, in VC63. where an excellent breeding season was reported, 75 singing
males and/or pairs were counted in the Wintersett area; 71 males/pairs in the Broomhill Ings
area with 41 males/pairs at Blackburn Meadows and 36 at Worsbrough CP. At least 50 pairs
were estimated along the Aire valley between Knostrop SF and Swillinglon Ings [VC64J.
Autumn passage along the coast was light to average with generally between 25 and 50 at
Spurn daily during the latter part of August peaking with 71 on the 26th whilst 28 were there
on the 4th September. Numbers, elsewhere, were quite low with peaks at Filey of six on the
23rd September and 14 at Flamborough on the 18th August though 20+ were at Ness Point on
the 28th August.

Occasionally reported in October with two at Spurn on the 1st then one on the 2nd whilst,
inland, in VC63, one at Springwood constituted the latest record for the Huddersfield area and
one at Crookes Valley Park was the latest ever for the Sheffield area. The last of the year was
on the 17th, at Spurn.

97

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin

Well distributed breeding summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first of the year was reported from Boulby on the 20th April then, on the following day,
from several locations in the Sheffield area; from Knaresborough; Poppleton; Potteric Carr and
Blacktoft Sands and. on the 22nd, front Sprotbrough Flash; Elland GP and Broomhead Res.
The main arrival was in early May with seven at Flamborough on the 6th whilst eight, at Spurn,
on the 19th was the maximum there.

Comments on breeding were generally favourable although several locations did state that
numbers were still down on several years ago though they had increased on 1995. High counts
of males during the breeding season came from Wintersett with 20; 17 in the Worsbrough
valley and 13 at Wykeham Lakes.

Autumnal passage, along the coast, was normal with the main movement being in late
September although ten were at Spurn on the 2nd with 16 on the 5th. A fall on the 21st gave
35 at Flamborough and 20 at Spurn whilst, on the 23rd, 40 were at Flamborough and eight at
Filey with 30 at Spurn on the 24th. Two stragglers were present at Filey into October [though
once more no dates were reported]; singles were at both Flamborough and Whitby on the 1st
with two at Spurn on the 2nd and one at Flamborough on the 13th.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla

Widespread summer visitor and passage migrant; increasingly winters in south and west.

A large number of birds were recorded during the early winter months; many areas indicating
a distinct increase in both numbers and locations reporting birds. Numbers were greatest in the
west. with, in VC63. records being received from at least 50 sites with six singing in the Grange
Park area of Rotherham, on the 1st March and five in a Sheffield garden on the 15th. In VC64,
a large increase in numbers was reported with in excess of 50 "birds recorded including six
different individuals [all colour-ringed] in a Ripon garden during January and up to six in a
garden at Scriven [Knaresborough] between the 20th and 28th February. At least eight were
reported wintering in the Richmond and Northallerton areas of VC65. Further east, in VC62,
up to five were reported from Skelton Castle with three at Robin Hood's Bay; these being the
only birds reported from the coastal area. In VC61. the only records were of singles at Thornton
Ellers and Fulford.

Obviously it was impossible to distinguish true arrivals in spring; peaks along the coast being
eight at Spurn and ten at Filey on the 23rd April with 12 at Flamborough on the 27th. Eight
were also at Spurn on the 6th May. All comments received concerning breeding indicated a
good year with Flamborough reporting that the minimum of 21 pairs there was "rather high”.
Autumn passage was light, along the coast, excepting the fall of 21st September when 29 were
at Spurn and 31 at Flamborough; 20 were at Flamborough on the 22nd then 20 on the 23rd
when 20 were also at Spurn and ten at Filey; 20 were still at Flamborough on the 24th.

Fewer birds were reported during the latter months from fewer locations. None were reported
from the coast after one at Flamborough on the 27th November excepting one at Skeffling, on
the Humber, on the 25th December. Good numbers were, however, reported from VC63 but
only from 25 to 30 sites.

Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides

Autumnal vagrant with 35 records; accidental in spring with four records.

Single birds were reported during September at Sammy's Point [Kilnsea], from the 6th to the
8th (PAL: MJP et al)\ at Filey from the 7th to the 1 2th (DBy et al ) and from the 2 1 st to the 26th
(JH et al). One, at Flamborough, on the 21st (MN: PAL: DIMW) has yet to be submitted to the

BBRC.

Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis

Autumnal vagrant; 15 records with the first in 1964.

One, at Spurn, on 7th September (GED: GN: KP). Another, at Flamborough, on 23rd
September, has yet to be submitted to the BBRC.

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Pallas’s Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus

Rare late autumnal passage migrant; [154 to 1995]

By recent standards, a poor year. Singles were reported at Cloughton between the 10th and 12th
November (GL: JH: SW et al). One at Spurn on the 15th November was the latest ever at that
location and, likewise, one al Flamborough on the same date (PAL: PJW) was also the latest
arrival there. This last bird was trapped and ringed on the 15th remaining until the 17th.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus

Scarce autumnal passage migrant; two spring records; occasional inland.

A below average year with five at Spurn; a minimum of ten at Flamborough and one or two at
a further five locations. The first occurred on the 19th September when singles were at both
Spurn and Redcar with one the following day at Sunk Island. On the 21st, two were at
Flamborough with one at Spurn then, on the 22nd. one at Spurn and three at Flamborough. This
latter location then having two on the 23rd; one on both the 24th and 25th with one on the 27th
and two on the 28th when one was at Kilnsea, this latter remaining until the 29th. In October,
one at Spurn on the 3rd; one at Flamborough on the 5th with another there on the 8th, one at
Kilnsea on the 12th, which remained until the 15th, one at Filey on the 13th remaining until the
15th, then, on the 14th, one at Spurn and one at South Gare. The last of the year was at
Flamborough on the 2nd November.

One, at Broomhill Ings on the 1 3th October, (NWA) was the fifth record for the Doncaster area.
Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix

Quite well distributed breeding summer visitor but absent from the south-east. Scarce
passage migrant.

One at Jackson's Bay [Scarborough], on the 14th April was the first of the year and well in
advance of the next, on the 21st, at Wytning Brook; Elland GP.; Pannal and Dob Park then,
followed by singles, at TLNR and Wharncliffe Crags on the 22nd. By the end of the month
birds were well distributed, particularly in the west, with, as usual, few reported from the east
thus one in East Park [Hull], on the 25th/26th April was quite noteworthy as were two at TLNR
from the 24th to 29th April, one of which remained until the 6th May. The only records along
the coast were three singles, in May, at Spurn; one at Grimston on the 5th and three at
Flamborough on the 19th.

In VC62, breeding numbers were considered to have been down on recent years. In VC63,
singing males, in May, were likely to have been indicative of breeding pairs with five at
Ewden; Wytning Brook, seven; Hebden Dale, eight; Hardcastle Crags, four; Cottingley Wood,
two and at least one at both Wharncliffe and Whirlow Park. Over 40 singing males were
reported, in VC64, though precise details were not available.

During autumn the last inland records were inevitably in August with singles at Scammonden
on the 4th; Thruscross, 9th; Lemonroyd, 15th and Staveley NR on the 18th though a very
late individual was at Wilsic on the 21st September. Along the coast, passage commenced
on the 8th August with three at Spurn then, on the 9th, one at Flamborough followed on the
10th by one at Filey with singles then at Spurn on the 11th; 15th and 30th. In September,
two were at Filey on the 6th, remaining for several days being joined by a third bird on the
9th, one of which was still in the area on the 15th. Flamborough recorded one on the 19th
then three on the 2 1st; four on the 22nd and two on the 23rd whilst Spurn had singles on the
7 th and 21st.

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita

Very common summer visitor and passage migrant; scarce in winter.

The only wintering birds in VC61 were at Wheldrake Ings where one was present throughout
January being joined by a second bird from the 18th to the 21st. One at Ellerburn Bank [VC62],
on the 6th March was probably a wintering individual. In VC63, singles were reported from
seven sites up to early March though usually on one day only whilst, in VC64, wintering birds
were said to be scarce with singles reported at Esholt SF and Burley-in-Wharfedale and two at
Adel Dam.

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The first birds, considered to have been migrants, were at Firsby Res. on the 17th March;
Potteric Carr on the 19th; Harrogate Golf Course on the 20th then, on the 23rd, at Denton
[VC63]; Wheldrake Ings; Spurn and Flamborough. By the end of this month birds were quite
widespread, particularly in the west. Passage along the coast was quiet with maxima of six at
Filey on the 15th April; eight at Flamborough on the 20th April and 1 1 at Spurn on the 2nd
May,

Stated to have had a good breeding season in VC63 whilst in VC64 many locations reported
up to twice the normal number of singing males.

Autumn passage was normal, along the coast, with peaks at Flamborough of 15 on the 23rd
September and, at Spurn, 16 on the 21st. The last on the coast were at the end of November
though possible wintering individuals were at Burton Riggs GPon the 1st December; Filey on
the 2nd; Flamborough on the 14th/15th and Scarborough on the 16th.

Inland, in VC63, none were reported between the last, on Thorne Moors, on the 21st October
and the 1 1th December after which birds were recorded at six sites with two at both Broomhill
Ings on the 14th and Dewsbury SF on the 29th. The last passage birds, in VC64, were one at
Drax on the 30th October and two at Hay-a-Park GP on the 2nd November; possible over
wintering individuals being at Ripon on the 19th November and Famham GP on the 1st
December. Two were at Bolton-on-Swale [VC65], on the 15th December with a third on the
27th.

Individuals considered by plumage to be of the northern race P.c. abietinus were reported from
Flamborough during both migration periods. In spring, one on the 27th April then, in autumn,
four on the 28th September with further birds in mid-November when four were present on the
16th and 18th plus one or two on five further dates. Several at Filey in autumn were also
thought to have been of this race.

Birds though to be of the Siberian race P.c. trislis were at Flamborough in November with two
on the 12th/13th and singles on the 14th; 16th; 17th and 18th. The third bird at Bolton-on-
Swale, on the 27th December [above], was much greyer than the other two with a distinctly
different call and was considered to be of this race whilst some of the birds reported during
December in VC63 were suspected as being either of this race or P.c. abietinus.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilm

Abundant summer visitor and passage migrant.

The first was reported at Wynting Brook on the 30th March then at Potteric Carr on the 4th
April and TLNR on the 5th with birds reported from many locations, particularly in the south-
west, by the 8th though few in coastal areas until the following week. Maxima in April were
25 at Spurn on the 23rd; 15 at Filey on the 17th and 52 at Flamborough on the 27th though, in
May, 68 were at Spurn on the 19th. Inland, a massive influx was recorded, in the Vale of
Mowbray, on the 20th April whilst a two day count of Thorne Moors, on the 20th/21st, revealed
at least 135 singing birds and, on the 27th, a location record of 92 singing males were recorded
in the Worsbrough valley.

An average breeding year was reported from most locations in VC63; 97 pairs were at
Wintersett; 47 at Broomhill Ings and 45 at Marley SF. Most had departed from inland areas by
mid-September with stragglers into October at Swillington Ings and Roundhay Park [Leeds],
on the 1st; Edderthorpe on the 3rd; Broomhill Ings on the 5th and Hatfield Moors on the 8th.
Passage, along the coast, was staled as normal although Filey had a very low maximum of ten
on the 23rd September whilst peaks at Spurn were 54 on the 25th August and 50 to 60 from the
21st to 24th September with Flamborough recording 50 on the 25th August; 55 on the 21st
September and 105 on the 23rd. The last to be reported from the coast were on the 13th
October, at Flamborough; 17th at Spurn; 25th at Whitestone Point and, finally, Flamborough
on the 16th November.

Individuals considered, on plumage details, to be of the race P.t. acredula were reported from
Flamborough, in both spring and autumn though in smaller numbers than usual. Singles were
present in spring on the 16th April and 20th May and, in autumn, only during the September
fall when up to ten were reported daily between the 21st and 25th.

100

Goldcrest Regulus regulus

Well distributed resident and passage migrant occasionally in large numbers.

In general, breeding status would appear to be little changed though higher numbers were
reported in the Pennine valleys. The largest parties recorded were 50+ in the Fountains Abbey
area during the early months; 50 in Howell Wood [Doncaster area] on the 25th January; 52 at
TLNR on the 21st January and 30 at Timble Ings on the 27th March and at Moreby Wood in
October.

A very poor autumn on the coast with no noteworthy influx; the only immigration occurring in
September with, at Spurn, up to 40 between the 19th and 25th; at Flamborough, 50 on the 20th,
120 on the 21st and 75 on the 22nd; Filey, ten on the 23rd; Whitestone Point, 15+ on the 20th
when 35+ were also at Ness Point and 15+ at Hawsker/Ness Point on the 21st.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus

Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Bred in 1995.

Two singing males were in the Sheffield area during May and June. Other records, from VC63,
were of singles at Wortley on the 9th April; Blackburn Meadows on the 15th and
Blackmoorfoot Res. on the 21st and then, in autumn, one at Longwood Valley on the 29th/30th
September. The only other inland records came from VC61. at TLNR. on the 14th January and
near Howden on the 13th April.

Along the coast, the bird at Redcar, present from mid-December 1995, remained throughout
January. In spring, singles were reported from Filey on the 10th April; Bempton on the 15th
April; Kilnsea on the 25th May and Spum on the 9th and 16th April and the 5th/6th May whilst
three were at this last location from the 17th to the 20th April with two remaining until the 21st
whilst these two, or possibly another two, were reported at a different location along the
peninsula on the 22nd.

In autumn, four were at Spurn on the 1 8th September when singles were also reported from
Hunt Cliff and South Gare. Two were present at Spurn on the 19th when three occurred at
Flamborough with two at Flamborough and one at Spum on the 20lh. On the 21st, six were at
Spurn; four at Flamborough; two at Filey and one at Ness Point; two of these birds remained
at Spum until the 24th with one each at Flamborough and Filey until the 22nd when one was
also reported from Tunstall then, on the 24th. one at Kilnsea and. on the 26th, one at
Flamborough. Singles were reported, in October, at Spum on the 1 4th/ 1 5th and the 25th/26th;
at Boulby on the 24th and Flamborough on the 25th whilst, in November, singles were at Filey
on the 17th and Spurn on the 25th and, finally, in December, at Spum on the 16th and Grimston
on the 17th.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

Well distributed summer visitor and passage migrant; may have decreased in recent years.
One on Hatfield Moors on the 19th April was the first of the year [and the fifth earliest ever for
Yorkshire] being followed by other April records at North Anston on the 21st and Graves Park
[Sheffield], on the 29th though many locations did not report birds until the 5th to 10th May
whilst arrivals along the coast were generally a week later.

Spring passage was generally light with 1 1 at Spurn on the 25th May as the peak there though
Flamborough had 27 on the 3 1 st.

Breeding reports were a little conflicting with few comments from the east, however, breeding
occurred at TLNR, after a blank year in 1995 and seven pairs were successful at Grimston. In
VC63, the numbers reported from the Huddersfield; Halifax and Bradford areas were
considered only moderate; down in the Barnsley area and a return to "normal” in SK58. Some
36 pairs bred at six sites in the Doncaster area whilst breeding was confirmed at ten sites in the
Sheffield area but what proportion of the latter were in Derbyshire is not totally clear. Bred
widely, but thinly, in VC64 with the indications in the Leeds and Harrogate areas being of a
slight decrease.

Light passage was reported along the coast in autumn with peak counts falling between the
20th and 24th September when up to seven were in the Whitby area; up to 16 at Flamborough
and 18 at Spurn. The last to be reported along the coast were at Flamborough on the 28th

101

September; Spurn on the 29th and a very late individual at Filey on the 20th October. Inland,
the last were on the 26th September at Carlton Marsh; Rossington and Broomhill Ings and'
finally, on the 1st October at Rodley SW.

Red-breasted Flycatcher Fidecula parva

Passage migrant; rare in spring and uncommon in autumn.

Another good year at Flamborough with at least 13 individuals, all in September, whilst Filey
had four and Spurn at least three, though, possibly as many as five. The first was at
Flamborough on the 13th remaining to the following day when a second individual was
present, one of these remaining until the 16th. On the 19th, singles were at Filey and
Flamborough with two at Spurn; the birds at Spurn and Flamborough being present on the 20th
whilst, on the 21st, five were at Flamborough, three at Filey, three at Spurn and one at
Easington; the three at Spurn possibly including two of the birds from the 19th/20th. On the
22nd only Flamborough recorded birds where the five present were considered to include two
newly arrived individuals after which only singles were reported, all from Flamborough, on the
25th; 29th and 30th.

Pied Flycatcher Fidecula hypoleuca

Summer visitor restricted to the moorland fringes; passage migrant more common in
autumn.

Early birds were reported from VC63. at Catcliffe Flash on the 13th April then, on the 15th, at
Worsbrough Res. followed by one at Hotham Woods [VC61], on the 18th and, on the 19th, in
VC63, at Langsett and Midhope and then, on the 20th, the first for VC64, at Folly Hall. Quite
widespread in the west by the end of the month though few had been reported from the east,
however, singles were at Flamborough on the 21st April and Spurn on the 23rd. Passage was
light with maxima of six at Flamborough on the 20th May and four at Spurn on the 1 1th.
Reported as being present, during the breeding season, on the North York Moors but only one
pair was proven to have bred. In VC63, some five pairs bred in the Halifax area with at least
three around Huddersfield; six pairs were confirmed in the Barnsley area though birds were
present at a further four sites. Individuals were present at 1 2 locations in the Sheffield area but
exactly how many were in Yorkshire is not certain. Bred, as usual, in VC64 though no
comments were received whilst, in VC65, the provision of nest boxes is leading to an increase
in this species although it was noted that it had a rather poor breeding season in the Catterick
area.

Autumn migration was normal with two peaks, the first during the third week of August when
15 were at Flamborough on the 20th with a similar count at Spurn on the 27th, then, in
September, between the 19th and 24th when birds were quite widespread with 45 at
Flamborough on the 21st when 15 were at Easington whilst Spurn recorded a maximum of 28.
The last along the coast were at Flamborough on the 30th September and at Spurn on the 1st
October whilst, inland, three were at Blackburn Meadows on the 14th September and then one
at Gledhow [Leeds], on the 20th.

One, ringed at Lodge Moor [VC63], in June 1995, was found dead at Taroudant, Morocco, on
the 20th May whilst one, trapped at Filey, on the 16th September, was carrying a Russian ring
[no further details].

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus

Resident, breeding along the upper Humher/Ouse; has bred Hornsea. Occasional irruptive
influxes from the Continent.

It was estimated that 65 pairs bred at Blacktoft Sands. Few counts, otherwise, were received
from this location with some 60 present on the 1 5th September and 50 on both the 1 3th October
and 1st November.

Elsewhere, birds, which may have originated at Blacktoft Sands were reported from Brough,
where, on the 1 0th October, individuals were heard calling from the reeds; an adult was at
Thome Moors on the 21st, then on the 27th, two were at Saltend. A minimum of three were
present at Broomfleet on the 27th November whilst Pulfin Bog recorded two on the 23rd and

102

one on the 29th December on which date two were also at Saltend. Along the coast, one was
at Boulby Cliff on the 24th October with one at Filey on the 5th November. It is possible these
last two birds may have arrived from the Continent.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithaios caudatus

Quite well distributed resident; absent from the higher ground of the west.

Comments received indicate a good population in many areas. During both winter periods
parties of up to 45 were quite frequent with larger gatherings of c. 100 at Howell Wood
[Doncaster area], on the 3rd January with 80 on the 25th; 60+ at Lindley Wood Res. on the 3rd
January with up to 50, on several occasions, at TLNR and 47 at Wilsic on the 1st January. 80+
were at Lindley Wood Res. on the 8th October and 60+ on the 5th November; 50+ on Thome
Moors on the 21st October with c.70 there on the 23rd November.

Few comments on breeding were received but a very poor year was reported from Melton
Wood [Doncaster area], where of 34 pairs/55 nests only five produced young.

The feeding on peanuts at garden feeding stations, in VC64, is spreading with sightings in four
Leeds suburbs; two in Harrogate plus an unspecified number from Bradford.

Marsh Tit Parus palustris

Thinly distributed resident; scarce in the south-east and south-west.

In the south of VC63 [Sheffield; Doncaster areas and SK58] the consensus is of a slight
increase in numbers and an expansion of the range of this species. Up to six pairs were reported
from the Kings’ Wood/Roche Abbey area with up to five pairs at Anston Stones Wood and two
at Long Thwaite Wood whilst, in this general area, another six sites may have held breeding
birds. Outwith the breeding season four were at Wilsic on the 3rd October with two
occasionally during the latter months. Stated as remaining scarce in VC64, to the west of
Leeds, being most widely distributed in the Harrogate area where birds were reported at some
35 locations. Remains quite common in the wooded areas along the edge of the North York
Moors. The only occurrence in VC61 came from the area of the LDNNR where seven were at
Thornton Ellers on the 1st February.

Willow Tit Parus montanus

Thinly distributed resident; scarcest in the east; possibly declining in most areas.

Less numerous in VC62 than the previous species with breeding only reported from Scaling
Dam and near Peel Park |York areal; all other records being of small numbers at scattered
locations. Breeding was reported in VC61, at Hemmingbrough; near Saltmarshe Delph;
Kirkham Abbey and the LDNNR. Quite widespread in the SK58 area of VC63 particularly in
the vicinity of the Chesterfield Canal and south Anston. Elsewhere in VC63, some 30 pairs
were found in the Barnsley area; 15 from the well- watched sites around Doncaster and remains
fairly common in the Sheffield area, most notably in the eastern part though some of this area
overlaps with the Doncaster area. Less common to the north with only two confirmed pairs in
the Huddersfield area and none in either the Halifax or Bradford areas. In VC64, also more
widely distributed than the previous species with one to three pairs reported from some 50 sites
plus five pairs breeding at Drax Ash Mound.

Outside the breeding period, 30 were at Thrybergh Banks on the 15th September with 22 at
Thornton Ellers on the 28th August and 15+ on Thome Moors on the 14th September.

Coal Tit Parus ater

Well distributed resident; passage migrant in small numbers.

No change in status reported continuing to be common and widespread in suitable habitat
whilst the improvement in breeding numbers in the Sheffield area is due, no doubt, to better
coverage as a result of survey work. Flocks in winter of between ten and 20 not uncommon
with 43 in the Little Don Valley on the 15th November and 40 in Haw Park on the 25th
February.

On the coast birds considered, on plumage details, to be of the nominate race P.a. ater were
reported from Whitby Golf Course on the 25th September; Spurn on the 21st/22nd September
and the 18th to 22nd October and at Flamborough where one was present on the 23rd
September with five on the 24th then singles, in October, on the 8th; 10th and 17th.

103

Blue Tit Parus caeruleus

Abundant resident; passage migrant in small numbers.

No reported change in status being under-reported in many areas. Flocks of up to 50 were
recorded, in winter, at many locations with several larger gatherings; 100 moved south at
Barden on the 1 3th October; 95 at TLNR on the same date and 71 in the Rivelin valley on the
23rd February. 75 were ringed in Sandall Beat Wood [DoncasterJ, on the 4th February; 60 were
in Listerdale Woods on the 15th March with a similar number at Canklow Woods on the 27th
December whilst 50 were reported from Potteric Carr on the 1st October and at High Batts NR
on the 6th. During the post-breeding period between 80 and 100 juveniles were counted in
woodland at Silkstone on the 4th August and 100 birds reported at Blackburn Meadow on the
27th August. No significant numbers were reported from any coastal location.

Great Tit Parus major

Abundant resident; passage migrant in small numbers.

Status apparently unchanged. Would appear to have had a good breeding season though no
large parties were reported from VC64. Maxima recorded elsewhere were 35 at TLNR on the
21st January; 80 at Wilsic in January with 70 there in November; 50 in Howell Wood on the
26th February and 47 in Anston Stones Wood on the 9th March. No indications of an influx
along the coast.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea

Well distributed resident in the north and west; absent from the south-east possibly
spreading eastwards.

The only records received from VC61 were of a single at Wheldrake Ings on the 25th April
and of birds heard at Settrington on the 22nd January and 10th March although it is considered
to be present in the north-west of the VC. Few reports were received from VC62 where
breeding was stated to have occurred in the York area, with two pairs present, and at Skelton
Castle. Other records in this VC concerned one flying along the cliff-tops at Boultby on the
20th April and one calling from a TV aerial at Saltbum on the 28th August. In VC63 numbers
are increasing at established sites; breeding at new locations and moving into previously non-
occupied areas. In the Doncaster area, three pairs bred in Back Wood [Bessacarr], which was
a new site last year whilst Thrybergh CP and Broomhill Ings reported birds for the first time.
At least 12 pairs bred in SK58 continuing the consolidation of earlier expansion whilst birds
also moved into new areas. A slow spread was noted around Huddersfield with breeding
reported Irom at least eight sites. Both the Halifax and Bradford areas recorded no change but
expansion was noted in both the Barnsley and Sheffield area. Seems to be little change in VC64
where several reports were received of birds visiting garden feeders. No comments received
from VC65.

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris

Welt distributed resident, absent from higher ground.

Certainly under-reported in VC61 where the only records received were from the LDNNR;
TLNR, where up to seven were occasionally seen; Filey, with one pair breeding and one or two
occasionally reported iti the autumn; Flamborough with two pairs breeding and up to four birds
at other periods and, at Spurn, with one on the 4th May.

The only records from VC62 were from the York area and the north-east, however, no
comments were made of any change in status. In VC63, it was considered that a slight change
m range may have occurred. No changes were reported from the Sheffield; Barnsley and
Doncaster areas and whilst there were more records received from the Halifax and
Huddersfield areas this was not thought to be due to an actual increase in birds. Quite well
distributed in VC64, usually records concerned one to three birds but 15 were at Lindley Wood
Res. in mid-August.

A single bird at Flamborough on the 18th October was considered, on plumage characteristics,
to be of the nominate race Cf. familiaris.

104

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus

Rare spring vagrant from Europe; bred in 1992.

A male at Flamborough on the 12th May with another male there on the 31st whilst a single,
unaged, bird was at Blacktoft Sands on the 15th. Afemale was recorded at Flamborough on the
2nd June with “a green bird” at Spurn on the 16th, finally, an individual considered to be an
immature male was at Hawks’ Wood [SK58], on the 22nd.

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Scarce migrant, formerly bred.

Two were reported at Ruswarp Carrs on the 17th May otherwise all spring records were of
single birds; a male at Spurn on the 11th May being present the following day; a female at
Lockwood Beck on the 18th then a male at South Gare on the 24th; a male at Saltend on the
29th then, in June, a male at Flamborough on the 12th and a female at Spurn on the 23rd.

A female was at Wilson’s Marsh fSeamer], on the 7th July.

All records, except one, in autumn concerned single birds. A female at Filey on the 14th August
with a male at Flamborough the following day then juveniles at Spurn on the 17th and
Grimston on the 18th which remained until the 20th. Immatures were at Hunt Cliff from the
23rd to 27th; Flamborough on the 24th; Port Mulgrave on the 27th with another at
Flamborough on the 28th and one at Spurn on the 31st when another was nearby, at Kilnsea,
whilst a female was at Flamborough on the 30th remaining in the area until the 1st September.
In September, an immature was at South Gare between the 1st and the 4th; a juvenile at
Broomhill Ings on the 3rd. which was most likely the individual found at Edderthorpe on the
5th, remaining nearby until the 19th; a juvenile at Grimston on the 7th then an immature at
Wheldrake Ings on the 8th [the first record for the LDNNR], A slight lull then until the next
record, from Cornelian Bay, on the 19th then one at Easington between the 21st and 24th with
two immatures at Flamborough on the 21st, one of which stayed until the 24th. An immature
at Filey on the 22nd stayed there until the 2nd October whilst, on the 22nd/23rd, one was at
Scarborough Castle Hill. Also, on the 23rd, an immature was at Ravenscar with immatures at
Flamborough and near Hornsea on the 25th then, at Scarborough, on the 27th. One, at
Margrave Ponds, on the 4th October was present in that area until the 7th and, lastly, an
immature at Whitestone Point on the 12th and 13th.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant; less numerous in recent years.

Remains quite scarce. One was reported from the western edge of Thome Moors on the 31st
January with one present in northern Hull between the 25th March and 7th April. During the
latter months, one was at Spurn on the 27th November; one at Treeton Dyke between the 13th
and 21st December was thought to have been the same individual that frequented Ulley CP
from the 24th to the 26th whilst one was in the Fulford area of York from mid-December to the
end of the year.

Jay Garrulus glandarius

Well distributed resident although absent from most of the high ground and the south-east.
All areas report no change though numbers would appear to be increasing in the Lower
Derwent area. Still absent from most of the south and east of VC61 . Several locations in VC63
reported double-figure counts with 17 at Howell Wood [Doncaster]; 13 at Listerdale Wood
[Rotherham] and 11 at Buttemab Wood [Huddersfield], all on the 16th April. Maxima, in
VC64, were nine at High Batts NR on the 1st October and eight in the Valley of Desolation on
the 21st whilst up to six were present in most woodland areas around Bradford; Leeds and
Harrogate. Although absent from a large part of VC61, 14 were in the Thornton Ellers area of
the LDNNR on the 11th October. Small numbers were seen along the coast with three at
Grimston on the 27th November; two off the sea at Whitestone Point on the 13th October;
singles at Flamborough occasionally in both October and November; two at Spurn on the 10th
October; two at Filey on the 10th October with three there on the 21st.

One of the birds at Filey on the 10th October was trapped and showed characteristics of the
northern/Continental race G.g. glandarius.

105

Magpie Pica pica

Common resident, increasing in urban areas; forms large winter roosts.

Status would appear to be little changed being common and widespread in all suitable habitats,
except where controlled by shooting interests, although the winter roost, at Flamborough, not
counted this year, was said to have declined. The maxima reported in VC63 were 120 at Firsby
Res. on the 12th January with 100 on the 18th March then 100 again by the 24th October
increasing to 120 on the 10th December. 70 were at Wilthorpe Marsh on the 1 Ith February and
65 at Broomhill Ings on the 6th October. No other gatherings in excess of 50 were reported in
this VC. In VC64 the only roost holding more than 50 was at Gledhow Valley Woods [Leeds],
with 330 on the 1 8th January and 345 on the 29th December.

Jackdaw Conus monedula

Common resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Grossly under-reported though no change in status was apparent. Most areas reported maxima
of some 500 at roosts or of parties enroute to roosting, however, at TLNR, some impressive
gatherings were noted with c.2200 on the 18th January; 4800 on the 1st February and up to
4000 between mid-February and mid-March. Smaller numbers were present during the latter
months with 1 100 on the 1 1th December.

Birds showing some characteristics of the northern race C.m. monedula were reported at
Flamborough during spring with 55 in April, including 15 on the 19th, whilst smaller numbers
were reported there in October.

Individuals, on plumage characteristics, considered to belong to one of the eastern races,
possibly C.m. soemmerringii were reported from the Catfoss/Leven area of VC61 with five on
the 17th March; four on the 23rd and at least five on the 24th (BR) although such is the
variation of this and the previous race that field identification can only be tentative.

Rook Corvus frugilegus

Common resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Little change in status was reported being under-reported in many areas. The Doncaster &
District Ornithological Society carried out a survey within their recording area [ten mile radius
of Doncaster Museum] which revealed little change in numbers over a 30 year period though
the number of rookeries has declined. In 1964, 112 rookeries held 2458 nest; in 1975, 92
rookeries, 2092 nests and in 1996, 81 rookeries with 2482 nests.

Very large numbers were recorded during January in the Lower Derwent with 3000+ on the
20th; 7300+ on the 21st whilst the corvid roost, at Melbourne of c. 13,000 was comprised
mainly of this species. TLNR also reported large flocks with 1600 on the 4th January; 2200 on
the 1st February and 3000-4000 during mid-February then 3000 on the 1st March and c.4200
on the 13th. Smaller numbers were recorded during the latter months with a maximum of 1000
on the 5th October. Away from VC61, 2400 were in the Idle valley [Notts/Yorks border] on the
14th January and 4100 at Eccleshall Woods [Sheffield], on the 18th February.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone

Increasing resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Very few comments were forthcoming on the status of this species but the general trend would
appear to be of an increase. Two societies did comment that there was a definite increase in
urban areas and, at some sites, was now a very significant predator during the breeding season.
The largest gatherings reported were 400 on Hatfield Moor on the 27th July with 160 on
Thorne Moors on the 24th. Several other sites, in VC63, occasionally reported flocks in excess
of 100 whilst, in VC64. 1 10 were at Eccup Res. during AugustfSeptember.

Passage was noted along the coast where, in spring, 40 to 50 were reported from Spurn on four
days in late April; 75 were at Flamborough on the 14th with 90 on the 15th and, in May, 54
flew north, some well out to sea, past Staithes, on the 5th. Smaller numbers were reported in
autumn with 58 at Flamborough on the 2nd October as the peak count anywhere.

Individuals of the race C.c. comix Hooded Crow, continue to be scarce. At Spurn, two were
seen on the 10th April with one on the 25th/26th whilst singles were also there on the 2nd June

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and the 23rd November. One was present in Flamborough village from the 7th January to the
24th March with singles on both the 13th and 15th April; the only report during the latter
months being one on the 24th October. One at Filey on the 16th and 18th April whilst, further
north, one was at Hawsker on the 13th and at Ness Point the following day. Two were at
Coatham Marsh on the 10th September.

Inland, one was at Bransholme SF on the 13th January; one at Staveley NR on both the 18th
and 24th April; one on Thome Moors on the 19th May and two over Wilsic on the 10th
October.

Raven Corvus corax

Scarce resident, breeding in the north-west where increasing slowly.

An uncommon resident in the extreme north-west [Sedbergh] area and known to have bred in
other parts of the Yorkshire Dales NP though no further details were forthcoming. Stated to be
on the increase around Sheffield with one pair breeding in the Yorkshire part of that recording
area [site not disclosed]. One pair may also have bred at an undisclosed site in VC64.

In the Sheffield area, upland sightings are now considered to be common-place, the maxima
reported being seven at Redmires on the 3 1 st August and at least ten, at a roost, at Stanage Edge
on the 10th October. On several mornings birds from this roost made dawn flights towards the
centre of Sheffield returning to the roost an hour or so later. Only one lowland record was
received, from the Sheffield area, at Blackburn Meadows on the 29th February whilst lowland
records from the remainder of VC63 were also very scarce with singles at West Melton on the
18th February and Wharncliffe on the 14th July. Estimates of numbers from the south-western
moorlands between Huddersfield and the Sheffield area are difficult as the recording area of
several local societies overlap, however, there were at least 50 sightings throughout this area
of one to three birds. There were 25 records from the Halifax area, again of one to three birds,
though these were all thought to concern just four individuals that frequented this region.
Notwithstanding the possible breeding report from VC64, birds were only reported from this
VC during the latter months with some 22 reports of one or two birds at a total of 12 sites, all
in the Dales.

Starling Stumus vulgaris

Abundant resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

The sentiment that the immense roosts of yesteryear are long gone was echoed once again by
many local societies. In VC64, many of the flocks noted were less than 300 with the roost at
Staveley NR on the 6th and 15th January, of 5000, being the only one of significance. In VC63,
7000 roosted at Wintersett Res. on the 7th April; 6000-7000 at Blacktoft Sands between the
31st October and the 8th November whilst 8000-9000 roosted near Kellingley Pit on the 15th
December. Elsewhere, the only other roosts were of “several thousand” under a bridge in York
and 3000 at Thomwick [Flamborough], on the 16lh March with 7000 there on the 2nd April.
Return passage was noted at Filey with 13,000 moving out on the 1st April and 2000 the
following day.

No outstanding autumnal influx was reported with the maxima at Spurn being 1000-3500
between the 23rd and 26th October and 1600 on the 16th November. 1500 came in off the sea
at Filey on the 23rd October. Westerly movement was noted over the Pennines to the
west/south-west of Sheffield where maxima were 3400 at Redmires on the 22nd October and
2800 at Rod Moor on the 23rd.

A flock of between 10,000 and 12,000 feeding near Oxenhope on the 3rd August consisted of
about 80% juveniles.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Common resident; has decreased in recent years.

In many areas the decline continues although Flamborough states “as abundant as ever”. Still
considered to be under-reported in some areas thus the true status is difficult to assess being
described as virtually absent from some urban areas of Bradford and Huddersfield during much
of the year whilst, in VC64. many records from suburban locations are considered to reflect

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concern, by the decline, resulting in more interest being taken of numbers. At Broomhill Ings
[VC63], where regular counts have been undertaken for at least ten years, the maxima were
250 on both the 26th and 31st August with 200 on the 15th September compared with 850 on
the 16th August 1986. 300 were at Kilnshurst Brickyard on the 6th August and a similar
number at Thrybergh CP on the 13th September. In VC64, flocks of up to 40+ were reported
from five sites, chiefly in autumn, with nowhere reporting any larger gathering.

Filey, in VC61, still regards this species as abundant with a post-breeding flock reaching 300
in September; [no actual counts were received from either Spurn or Flamborough], TLNR had
a flock, nearby, of 50-60 in mid-February with clOO on the 28th December whilst only small
numbers were reported from the LDNNR.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus

Resident; decreased markedly in recent years.

Apparently the decline continues though not as drastic as in recent years and, in some areas,
notably Harrogate, there are signs of an upturn. In VC61, still fairly well distributed at some
coastal areas with, at Spurn, up to 40 present during most months and c. 100 from mid-
September to mid-October. Wintering flocks at Flamborough were not as large as in recent
years with a maximum, in spring, of 40 on the 2nd May whilst, in autumn, numbers, thought
to be swelled by migrants, peaked at 100 on the 24th September and 120 on the 28th. c.200
were near Bridlington on the 31st December whilst, at Filey, the resident flock remained fairly
static around 20. Inland, in this VC, 30 were at Welwick on the 1st January; 40 at Long Riston
on the 12th January and up to 30 near TLNR in early December.

The LDNNR held up to 60. at Thorganby, on the 10th March with 700 there on the 17th when
250 were at Breighton whilst 75 were at Bank Island on the 18th resulting in an estimation of
some 1300 birds present around the site on the 1 7th/l 8th. 65 were at Thornton on the 15th
August then, in September, 1 10 there on the 4th with 200 on the 22nd; 230 at Thornton Ellers
on the 22nd December and 300 at Breighton on the 30th.

In VC62, now stated as virtually absent in the area north of York. The only flock of any note
in this VC being of 100 at Bumiston on the 15th November.

The decline in VC63 was most noticeable at Wintersett and, to a lesser extent, around Sheffield
whilst, in the Halifax area, this species was not considered as widely distributed with only
small numbers noted. Recorded at 13 locations in the Huddersfield area including 20 at
Dewsbury SF on the 14th April. Elsewhere, in this VC. there were counts of 30 to 50 at some
six sites in the Doncaster area including 48 at Thrybergh CP on the 9th October; 50 at
Southfield Res. on the 12th April whilst, in the Bamsley area. 60 were at Broomhill Ings on the
6th and 24th March and 40 on both the 28th August and the 13th October [200 were recorded
here on the 31st August 1976] whilst 40 were in the Worsbrough valley on the 24th February
[against 100 at Rockley Abbey on the 7th February 1976], At Ardsley Res., near Bradford,
75 were recorded on the 9th January with up to 50 in February; 43 in early March and 17 in
early May.

75 were at Oulton [Leeds], on the 29th January with 52 in a Cookbridge [Leeds], garden in
January and up to 41 at High Batts NR in February whilst a further six locations reported flocks
of between 20 and 30. The small recovery in VC65 may, in fact, be due to increased observer
awareness.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs

Abundant resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

No change in status reported. Few large flocks were recorded with c.500 at Ogden [Halifax],
on the 30th September and 400 near Leighton Res. on the 24th March as the largest whilst up
to 300 were at Studley Royal in January and 200 at Hardcastle Crags on the 1 st March. During
the early months some ten flocks of between 100 and 200 were reported in VC63 with, in the
latter months, five of between 1 00 and 1 50. In VC6 1 , the only flocks of 200 were at TLNR on
the 11th March and at Flamborough on the 30th October.

Little passage was noted along the coast with no more than 80 in a day at any location. Inland,
a total of 4100 were recorded passing over the Pennines, at Rod Moor, between mid-September
and early November.

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Brambling Fringilla monlifringilla

Passage migrant and winter visitor in varying numbers.

Good numbers were present during the early months in the west of the county. In the Halifax
area there were several counts of c. 1 000 though some may have concerned the same, quite
mobile, flocks. On the 7th January, 1500 were at Withens Clough; 1000 on the 14th at
Cullis/Household Wood then 400 at both Blake Dean, on the 18th February and Gorpley
Clough on the 1 8th March. On the 8th April. 1000 were at Gorpley Clough with a similar count
at Hardcastle Crags on the 1 8th. Elsewhere, in VC63, 400 were at Strines on the 1 9th February;
800 at Redmires on the 19th April with 500 in the Porter valley on the 20th. There were several
large flocks in VC64 where 550 were at Timble in early January; 300 to 400 at Swinsty Res.
on the 21st January with 220 there in February and 300 on the 11th April. A flock of 200 at
Blubberhouses in February had increased to 300 by late March. 200 were at Round Howe
[Richmond], on the 1 1th February but the largest flock, in VC65, was in the beech woods on
Feldom Ranges where 1000 were present in late February increasing to 1500 by the 3rd March.
The largest gathering in the east was 60+ at Skelton Castle [VC62]. Most had departed by the
third week of April with the last being at Flamborough on the 6th May; Spurn on the 17th;
Pulfin Bog on the 19th and in Guisborough Forest on the 28th. However, a singing male was
present at Redmires from the 8th to the 21st June.

Numbers during the latter months were low with the first returning birds, at Filey, on the 17th
September; Spurn on the 18th and Flamborough on the 19th. Autumnal passage was light with
maxima, at coastal locations, of 32 at Burniston on the 6th October; 48 at Flamborough on the
9th when 36 were also at Spurn and, on the 1 Ith, 19 at Filey. Inland, 1000+ were counted
passing over Rod Moor between the 1 3th and 28th, which was fewer than in recent years, with
daily maxima of 180 south-west on the 13th; 130 south-west on the 22nd and 100 south-west
on the 28th. Few flocks of any magnitude were reported, 120+ on Denton Moor in late
November, being by far the largest with 60 at Wilsic in December and 50 at Blubberhouses on
the 29th December the only other counts of any significance.

Serin Serinus serinus

Rare visitor from Europe; one in 1897 then 31 records since 1961.

One, a male, at Spurn on May 25th.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris

Common resident and passage migrant.

All comments received on breeding status indicated no change. Many locations reported flocks
of up to 150 with the largest gatherings being 400 at Hagg Bridge on the 22nd September; 300
at Roundhill Res. on the 28th February; 210 near Sutton-on-Derwent on the 22nd December
with 200 at Esholt SW on the 14th January; 210 roosting at Thome Moors on the 14th January;
200 at Wilsic in December and 180 at TLNR on the 23rd September.

Numbers along the coast were normal with maxima, at Spurn, of between 300 and 500 in
October/ early November peaking at 750 on the 19th October whilst a flock of 300 there from
mid-November had decreased to 100 by the end of the year. 300 were at Flamborough on the
30th October otherwise no other day recorded more than 60. A total of 930 were counted
passing west over Rod Moor during October and early November, a similar total to 1995, with
100 on the 20th October as the highest daily count.

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis

Common resident; passage migrant and summer visitor.

Status generally unchanged though a slight increase was noted in parts of VC63. An increase
in the use of garden-bird feeders was reported from several areas.

Flock sizes during the early months were relatively small with maxima reported of 51 at
Broomhill Ings on the 9th January; up to 60 at Oulton during this month and a party, at Firsby
Res., of 20 on the 3rd January increasing to 90 by the 24th February whilst, in spring, 150 were
at Wintersett Res. on the 20th April and 100 were in the Oulton area in May. Passage was noted
along the coast, at Boulby, where 202 were seen on the 27th April with 142 on the 5th May and
35 on the 26th. Passage at Flamborough was stated as light whilst, at Spurn, 100 were recorded

109

on the 21st April; 200 on both the 20th and 21st May and 120 on the 22nd.

Post breeding gatherings were larger and more widespread than those of the early months with
many locations reporting parties of 50 to 100. Larger gatherings were, in VC61, 200 a
Flamborough on the 10th September; 100 at TLNR on the 29th September; 320 at Hagg Bridge
on the 22nd September whilst it was estimated that 1000+ were present throughout the
LDNNR on the 15th. In VC63, during August. 120 were at Firsby Res. on the 20th; 100 at
Thrybergh CP: 150 at Went Ings and 180 at Broomhill Ings, all on the 31st. 210 were at
Broomhill Ings on the 8th September with 150 at Carr Hill [Doncaster], on the 11th; 100 at
Blacktoft Sands on the 16th ; 150 at Edderthorpe on the 19th; 110 at Southfield Res. on the
23rd and 200 at Bessacarr on the 26th. Few large gatherings in VC64, all recorded in
September, with 120+ at Beaverdyke Res.; 100 at Oulton and 90 at Shadwell.

Passage, in autumn, along the coast, was also light with 150 at Flamborough on both the 21st
and 23rd September whilst, at Spurn, maxima were 95 on the 30th September; 145 on the 11th
October; 140 on the 19th and 125 on the 22nd. Inland, in VC63, at least 1250 were counted
moving over Rod Moor in September/October with peaks of 210 to the south-west on the 13th
October and 100+ on the 14th; 20th; 23rd and 24th. These totals are quite remarkable as this
species was rarely reported here in the 1980s.

Siskin Carduelis spinus

Scarce breeding resident; passage migrant and winter visitor.

The only breeding records received came from the south-west of VC63 where small numbers
were present in the Sheffield and Barnsley areas.

Parties of up to 100 were quite widespread during the early month with larger gatherings in
VC62 where several flocks in excess of that magnitude were present in the North York Moors
forests,; the maximum being 250 near Ellerburn on the 24th February. Away from the forests,
100 were at Yearsley Moor Wood on the 1st March. Only small numbers were reported from
VC61 and. in VC63, only one location, Bretton Park, reported more than 100, with 130 on the
8th January whilst a further five locations occasionally held between 50 and 80 during January
and February. In VC64, up to 120 were at High Batts NR in January with 100+ at Lindley
Wood Res. on the 2nd March whilst a further six sites recorded between 60 and 80.

An influx was noted along the coast in mid/late September with, on the 1 7th. good numbers in
the South Tees area; 1 10 at Filey; 250 at Flamborough and 370 at Spurn. 450 were at Spurn on
the 18th thereafter between 100 and 250 were present there daily until the 23rd. 61 were at
Grimston on the 18th; 450 at Flamborough on the 20th when 96 were reported along the
Humber at Sunk Island. Inland, passage over the Pennines was poor, compared with 1995,
which was one of the best years on record; 1 15 over Redmires on the 28th September and 150
at Strines on the same day being the maxima reported.

Apart from 80 at Potteric Carr on the 29th September most locations reported quite small flocks
until mid-November when up to 100 were in Colsterdale [VC65]; 100 at Scar House Res. and
100 at Adel Dam/Golden Acre Park [both VC64], whilst in VC63. 140 were at Firsby Res. on
the 23rd November. In December, the only record in excess of 100 individuals came from
Newton-on-Derwent [VC6I ], where 110 were present on the 20th. Gatherings of 40 to 70 were
occasionally reported in November/December at four locations in VC63 and at one in VC64.

Linnet Carduelis cannabina

Common resident and passage migrant.

The only comment on breeding status, received from the east of the county, came from the
LDNNR where good numbers were said to have been present. In VC63, decline was noted in
the Huddersfield; Sheffield and Doncaster areas and may possibly have occurred in the
Barnsley area though this species would appear to be doing well in SK58. Continues to decline,
in VC64, whilst no comments were received from VC65.

No particularly large gatherings were seen in the eastern part of the county during the early
months. In VC63, it was reported as relatively scarce during this period with 100 at Listerdale
Woods on the 13th February as the maximum. 200 at High Batts NR on the 7th January with
up to 120 at Thruscross in March being the only gatherings, in VC64, in excess of 50.
Numbers throughout the county increased rapidly in spring with passage figures of 345 at

110

Flamborough on the 13th April; 200 on the 15th then 150 on the 19th whilst, at Spurn, between
200 and 500 were recorded daily from the 8th April to 1 st May and 650 to 900 between the
16th and 22nd. Elsewhere up to 320 per hour were noted, occasionally, passing Boulby whilst
300 were at Cromer Point on the 16th April. This passage was reflected in VC63 where flocks
in excess of 100 were recorded at six locations with maxima of 230 at Potteric Carr on the 7th
April; 250 at Loscar Common on the 10th and, at Firsby Res., 410 on the 9th and 850 on the
18th, feeding on linseed. 250 were near Bolton-on-Swale [VC65], on the 21st.

Flocks of 100+ were slightly more widespread in autumn with larger congregations noted on
the 5th September when 350 were near TLNR; 450 at Pulfin Bog on the 7th and 400 at South
Anston on the 22nd.

Passage, over the Pennines, was much reduced compared to 1 995 with a total of 1 780 over Rod
Moor; daily maxima in this area being 780 south over Redmires on the 28th September when
300 moved south-west over Strines and, on the 1st October, 245 south-west over Rod Moor.
Along the coast, up to 400 were frequently reported at Spurn with 800 on the 26th September
and 1500 on the 28th whilst the peaks at Flamborough were 400 on the 5th and 450 on the 9th.
560 were recorded flying east along the Humber, at Sunk Island, on the 14th October.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris

Resident , breeding on the Pennines; passage migrant and winter visitor.

A bleak outlook as a breeding species, in the Sheffield area, where it was stated to be “on the
brink of being lost”; being considered that the continued loss of hay-meadows and the
intensification of farming along the moorland fringes are the main reasons for the decrease.
Continues to decline in both the Barnsley and Huddersfield areas whilst the Halifax area
remains the stronghold in VC63. The only records from VC64 were of eight at Grimwith Res.
on the 6th June and in early July. No comments received from VC65.

During the early months several small parties were reported from the coast with 12, at Whitby,
on the 1st January; up to 28, at Spurn, in January and up to nine there occasionally in February
with 26, at Easington, on the 22nd February. Three to six were inland, in VC61. at Thorganby,
on the 20th January. Good numbers were present in the Halifax area [VC63], due to the mild
weather, with 30 at Mount Tabor on the 3rd January and 54 on the 24th February; 70 on the
24th February with 40 the following day. 17 were on Longfield Common on the 13th January
with 54 on the 9th March whilst 123 were at Lumbutts Road on the 9th March and 50 there on
the 13th April. In VC64, 20 to 25 were at Gouthwaite Res. from the 6th January to the 10th
February. Small parties were noted at many locations during the spring period with ten to 15 at
most but 24 were at Whitestone Gate on the 23rd March and 20 at Scar House Res. on the
4th April.

In autumn, in VC63, 35+ were at Deerhill on the 28th August with 32 on the 15th September;
50 at Wainstalls on the 15th September; 35 at Broadstones on the 13th October and 70 at Crag
Vale on the 10th. In VC64, 47 were at Bishopside and 18 in Dallowgill in September with 26
at Agill on the 1 8th November.

Along the coast, 30 were at Long Nab from the 10th to 17th November with 30 there [the
same?] on the 1 1 th December. The regular wintering flock at South Gare peaked at 55 on the
30th November whilst, further south, the only flock of more than ten was at Grimston where
13 were recorded on the 23rd November. Very few were at Spurn excepting 31 flying south on
the 7th November whilst numbers at Flamborough were again very low.

Redpoll Carduelis cabaret

Declining breeder; passage migrant and winter visitor.

Numbers during the early months were high as a result of birds remaining from the 1 995 influx,
a very high proportion of these being of the nominate race C.f. flammea ['Mealy' Redpoll], The
larger numbers were reported from the west and central areas of the county with Filey,
Flamborough and Spurn recording very few individuals. In VC62. however, 175 were at
Wykeham Lakes on the 22nd March with a huge flock, seen intermittently, in Park Wood
[Guisboroughj. between the 29th February and the 5th April which was estimated to contain
some 800 birds. At neither location was any indication given as to the number of nominate

Ill

birds present though it is considered that most were of this race. Further inland, in VC62, up
to 44 were at Rawcliffe in mid-January of which about half were nominate individuals and 150,
of which 90% were nominate, were at Yearsley Moor Wood on the 1st March. In VC61, the
only location to report any number of birds was the LDNNR with 21 at Melbourne on the 21st
February and 62 at Thornton on the 19th March; all the latter being considered to be nominate.
At Cragg Vale near Halifax, 80 to 100 were generally present during January with a peak count
of 150 on the 7th. On the 14th, 60 were at Broadhead Clough with 85 at Copley and 100 in
Household Wood on the 15th. Four sites, in this area, held between 30 and 60 during February
whilst two sites held similar numbers in March. Quite a large proportion of these birds in the
Halifax area were of the nominate race. Only small parties were reported in the Huddersfield
area, mostly nominate race. Large numbers were present in the Barnsley area with 35 nominate
birds at Wintersetl on the 7th January; 30 at Langselt on the 10th; 1 1 at Broomhill Ings on the
21st and 150 at Carlton Marsh on the 30th/31st. During February. Wintersett had 70 on the 6th;
150 on the 17th and 100 on the 25th; 72 were at Broomhill Ings on the 11th; 200 at Netherwood
on the 25th; 40 at Underbank Res. on the 26th and 1 50 at Edderthorpe on the 27th. 250 were
in the Wintersett/Haw Park area on both the 1st and 1 6th March with up to 200 at Netherwood
until the 18th and 100 at Broonthcad, also on the 18th. Some 80% of the flock, of 150
individuals at Blackburn Meadows, on the 25th February were of this nominate race whilst, in
the Doncaster area, almost all of the 150 at Potteric Carr, during January, were of this race as
were 20 at Howell Carr in March. Other locations in this area only reported small numbers.

In VC64, several large parties were reported; 150 with at Adel Dam; 140 at Haverack Park; 150
at Gouthwaile Res.; 140 at Hay-a-Park GP and 120 at Fewston Res. These parties contained
between 30% and 100% nominate birds though which percentage applied to which flock was
not made apparent. A further ten sites, in this VC, occasionally held between 80 and 100 birds.
Of a flock of 350 at Leighton Res [VC651, on the 1st January at least 100 were nominate birds;
some 30% of the 200 in Colsterdale during January were also of this race whilst at least 18 out
of 70 at Bolton-on-Swale on the 25th February were though to have been nominate.

In the Sheffield area [VC63], 300 were at Wymingbrook on the 2nd January; 200+ at Firsby
Res. on the 25th February and 200 at Hollingdale on the 6th April, however, no reference was
made as to any racial split.

The race C.f. cabaret [Lesser Redpoll] was not quite as widespread as C.f flammea though
several locations reported good numbers including 100 at Wintersett on the 18th January; 40 at
Broomhill Ings on the 13th; 100 at Ewden on the 2nd March and 40 at Yateholme on the 3rd
April.

In all areas few birds were reported after the end of March [excepting Hollingdale] with very
few breeding records received. In VC61 , a "few pairs” were though to have bred at the disused
railway sidings in west Hull; no definite breeding was reported from VC62 though up to ten
individuals were reported regularly at Wykeham Lakes. Birds were present, in VC63, during
this period, at five sites in the Halifax area; four around Sheffield; two at Doncaster and one in
the Barnsley area though confirmed breeding was proven at only a few of those. Only one
location, in VC64, reported breeding with none in VC65.

Far smaller numbers were reported during the latter months with 20 at Kilburn |VC62], on the
28th September; 20 at Selby on the 7th December and, at the LDNNR, 60 at Thornton Ellers
on the 4th December and 40 at Newton-on-Derwent from the 19th to the end of the month. In
VC63, the only notable parties were of 50 at Wintersett on the 16th November; 50 at Notton
on the 22nd November; 50 at Treeton Dyke on the 30th November and 50 at Canklow Woods
on the 27th December. 60 were at Thrybergh CP on the 31st December with 70 at Netherwood
on the 27th November whilst 60 were reported flying east over Edderthorpe on the 15th
December. 100 were at Skelton Lake [VC64], on the 15th December with 50 at Hay-a-Park GP
and at Harrogate during December. Very few birds, during these latter months, were attributed
to the nominate race.

Arctic Redpoll Carduelis homemanni

Rare vagrant front the Arctic; 29 records to 1994 then a record influx in 1 995.

Individuals, no doubt associated with the 1995 influx, were reported in VC61 from Filey, on

112

the 8th April (AS: CCT et al) and from Spurn, where one was trapped, on the 29th May. In
VC62, one was in Dalby Forest on the 10th March (DCJ), whilst near Guisborough, between
four and seven birds were present with “Mealy” Redpolls, C.f. flammea , on the 31st March
(MAB et al) with three at Birk Brow on the 9th April (GMY: RCT).

VC63 recorded the majority of the birds with a first-winter individual at Broomhill Ings
remaining from the 31st December 1995 until the 3rd January (JMT: NWA); Wintersett Res.
recorded single first-winter birds on the 18th January and 8th February with a male and two
first-winter males there on the 9th March [all were trapped and ringed] (AP: JMG: G & PS); a
single on Thome Moors on the 21st January (RJS: BRW) with one in the Sheffield Botanical
Gardens from the 1 7th February to the 6th March whilst a second individual was present on the
1st March (HA: SM: DW et al). A single male, with a first-winter bird, was at Blackburn
Meadows from the 17th to the 23rd February (EAF et al) with one on Wadsley Common on
the 24th ( ADH: JR). At Finningley Park, two first-winter birds were present on the 14 February
with another first-winter individual on the 28th; two birds on the 17th March and one on the
24th [all were trapped and ringed] (DH: PS). One was at Blaxton on the 25th February (DP);
a first-winter individual at Netherwood CP from the 25th February until the 1 7th March (GML:
SR: DMW et al) with singles at Broomhead Res. on the 1 1 th March (JW) and Haw Park on the
13th (JMT).

VC64 had two at Golden Acre Park [Leeds], on the 14th January with one the following day
(PRM); one at Farnham GP on the 24th and 25th March (GTF: PRI et al) with two on the 26th
(JMc) then one at Fewston Res. on the 31st March (KM).

All the above records have been accepted by the BBRC whilst the following have, as yet, not
been submitted to that body. One at Golden Acre Park, on the 29th January [this was possibly
the adult present earlier in the month]; an adult and two first-winter individuals at Lindley
Wood Res. [VC64], on the 26th January and one in a Harrogate Garden on the 13th February.

Crossbill Loxia curvirostra

Scarce breeding resident , occasionally in larger numbers following irruption years.

The only evidence of breeding in VC62 came from Langdale where, unfortunately, the nest tree
was felled; birds were also heard singing at a second site in this VC. Three family parties,
totalling ten birds, reported at Howden Res. on the 28th May, indicated local breeding although
it is not entirely certain that the site was in Yorkshire [Howden Res. straddles the
Derbyshire/Yorkshire boundary]. In VC64, five birds, including immatures. were at Timble on
the 23rd June with two there on the 27th also indicating possible breeding in the area.

Small parites were present during the early months in Wykeham; Dalby; Langdale and Cropton
Forests with 40 at Gillingwoods [Pickering], on the 30th January as the largest number
reported. A small party was also reported from the north of VC62, in Guisborough Forest on
the 1st April. In VC63, one or two birds were occasionally reported from the Midhope/Ewden
area though six were at Midhope on the 28th September. Up to six were recorded in the
Redmires area during the early months whilst eight were seen flying west there on the 12th
June. Five were reported in a suburban garden at Bingley on the 30th December. A poor year
in VC64 where one was at Temple Newsam on the 25th February; five at Laund Pasture on the
9th July and two in a garden at Roundhay |Leeds], on the 19th September.

The only records from the coastal area were of singles at Flamborough on the 12th February
and at Spurn on the 19th September.

Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus

Regular passage migrant from the Continent; first reported in 1955 becoming quite frequent
in latter years; bred in 1992 with possible breeding in 1995.

A male arrived at last year’s possible breeding site on the 23rd May remaining in the area,
singing repeatedly, until the 2nd June, however, no other birds were seen.

All records concerned single birds in spring; at South Gare, on the 19th May; a male, singing,
at Spurn on the 29th May then a male at Flamborough on the 8th June, on which date, an
immature male was singing at Spurn. A first-winter male was at Flamborough on the 15th June
and, finally, a male was present at Spurn on the 20th and 21st June.

113

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula

Thinly but widely distributed resident; winter visitor in small numbers.

The general consensus of all societies was of no change in status although many commented
that records of proven breeding were few; most reports concerned flocks.

32 at Broonthill lugs on the 10th January was a record count for the Barnsley area. Other
gatherings, in VC63, were 19 at Howell Wood on the 29th January and 18 at Firsby Res. on the
27th August. Migration, over the Pennines, to the west of Sheffield was typical with peaks of
17 to the south-west, over Rod Moor, on the 21st October and nine on the 29th. Maxima
reported, in VC64, were 18+ at Lindley Wood Res. on the 26th January and 12 at both Staveley
NR and High Batts NR in October. The largest party, in VC62, was of 1 1 , all males, at Seamer
Road Mere in December whilst, in VC61, few were reported away from the LDNNR where 17
were at Wheldrake on the 1 7th January with a total of 29 counted along the whole of the reserve
on the 13th February and, during the latter months, 30 in the Wheldrake area in September with
17 there on the 13th October. Elsewhere, only TLNR recorded birds with any regularity, up to
four being present on many dates with ten on the 2nd March.

Quite frequent at Flamborough during the latter months with up to six on many occasions; ten
on the 2nd November and eight on both the 12th and 13th. Up to six were reported frequently
at Filey during September and October. Neither of these two locations reported any individuals
considered to be of the nominate race P.p. pyrrhula however, at Spurn, a male was present from
the 1st to 7th January with a female from the 13th to 16th November. Away from the coast, two
birds, at Bolton-on-Swale, on the 15th December which constituted the first record of this
species at that location, were thought to have been of this nominate race. Two birds, out of ten,
at Blackburn Meadows, on the 15th January were also thought to have been of this race.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes

Scarce breeding resident; absent from the high ground and the south-east.

The only confirmed breeding record came from Wilsic where a single pair was reported.
Breeding possibly occurred at Roche Abbey where up to six birds were present in February;
four in April and two in May whilst, at nearby King’s Wood, five or six pairs were reported in
April but fewer in May. The Worsbrough valley remains the stronghold in the Barnsley area
with up to five seen in the breeding season following peak counts of up to 1 6. at Stainborough,
on the 24th February and eight at Rockley on the 28th January. An adult and juvenile were at
Fountains Abbey, on the 13th July, indicating possible breeding in the area.

Still a scarce bird in the east of the county. The remains of one was found at Spurn [raptor kill]
on the 1 7th March whilst one was present between the 7th and 1 2th April with two flying north
there on the 28th September. Singles at Wheldrake on the 1st and 28th March were only the
second and third records for the LDNNR. Six were reported in the Hutton area [VC62], during
January to March whilst up to three were at Skelton Castle occasionally between February and
August. Five were at Firbeck Hall on the 24th October whilst, away from this general area of
VC63, eight were at Bretton Park on die I Ith November though, at Woolley Wood, a favoured
site in the Sheffield area, only four were present on the 6th January and two or three at the end
of the year. One to three were reported from a further seven sites in the Doncaster and Sheffield
areas. A very poor year, in VC64, where most records came from the Studley Royal/Fountains
Abbey area with up to five being reported during both winter periods. Elsewhere, two were at
Lindley Wood Res. on the 5th April; two flew over Staveley NR on the 9th April with another
over there on the 20th October.

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus

Regular passage migrant and winter visitor in varying numbers.

Scarce during the early months with one or two very occasionally at Spurn; Flamborough;
Filey; Scarborough and Redcar, six at Flamborough on the 7th January being the only count in
excess of two.

More numerous in the latter months, although Flamborough reported the worst autumn for
many years, with singles on only four dates between late September and mid-November. A

114

party of up to seven were present at Filey during October with at least four remaining until the
end of December. Spurn had one to three occasionally, after the first on the 14th September,
with eight on the 22nd October and four on the 23rd. Four were at Grimston on the
10th November. In VC62, one or two were occasionally at South Gare; Port Mulgrave;
Whitby; Skelton and near Scarborough with four at the latter location, Cromer Point, on
the 1st December, whilst the only flock of note was of 25 to 30 at Long Nab on the 10th
December.

Two inland records, one over Flamingoland [Kirby Misperton, VC62], on the 4th January and
one over the RVCP on the 30th November.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis

Winter visitor; numbers having declined in recent years.

Up to 30 were at Spurn throughout most of January but 40 were recorded on the 29th. 22 there
on the 1st February had increased to 29 by the 7th then decreased to 1 1 on the 24th with the
last being reported on the 7th March. At nearby BLNR, c.40 were present on the 20th January
with 39 on the 1st February. Very scarce at Flamborough during these early months whilst, at
Filey, 20 on the 12th January was the only record of note. Further north, up to 70 were in the
South Gare/Coatham Sands area during January with 60 in February and 35 in March.

More numerous during the latter months with the tirsl, at Flamborough. on the 29th September.
Spurn reported small numbers occasionally in October then had birds almost daily in
November with 29 south on the 7th; 83 on the 13th; 14 south on the 21st then 100 north on the
22nd. 50 flew south on the 2nd December with 28 on the 7th; 75 on the 15th and ten on the
31st. Many of these birds were also reported from the Kilnsea/Easington area where peaks of
1 35 were reported on the 23rd October; 43 from the 1 8th to the 20th November then 36 on the
7th December with 40 on the 14th. Along the Humber, at Sunk Island, 150 were present on the
12th December on which date 65 were at nearby Cherry Cobb, there, no doubt, being some
inter-change between these sites. Further north, along the coast, 70 were at Grimston on the
10th November with 60 there on the 15th December; 20 to 40 near Atwick during most of
November and December though 115 were there on the 26th November. 35 were at
Barmston/Fraisthorpe on the 23rd November. Small numbers, up to 15, were at Flamborough,
particularly in November, though 1 1 1 were reported on the 8th December whilst, at Filey,
numbers built up to give 30+ during November with 45 passing south on the 1 8th and, towards
the end of the year, two parties totalling c.75 were present. 50 to 60 were at Long Nab on the
9th November; 35 at Whitby on the 21st whilst, at Port Mulgrave, numbers increased from
eight on the 1 5th October to 80 on the 1 6th November. Maxima at South Gare/Coatham Sands
were 18 in October; 81 in November and 31 in December.

Inland, in VC61, two were at TLNR on the 21st April with one there on the 20th October; two
at Pulfin Bog on the 26th October and, at Wheldrake Ings, two on the 8th November. Reported
quite often from VC63 with one or two at Warley Moor between the 21st January and the 3rd
February. 12 were in the Whiteholme Res. area on the 3rd February with ten there the following
day then one or two until early March and one on the 1 6th. Two flew over Langfield Common
on the 9th March and one over Southfield Res. on the 26th. During the latter months singles
[involving two birds] were recorded, on ten occasions, at Southfield Res. between the 22nd
October and the 1 1 th December. Single birds were reported Hying over the Pennines at
Redmires on four dates between the 14th October and the 14th November and on two occasions
over Rod Moor with three, at the latter, on the 1 1 th November. Three were at South Anston on
both the 9th and 10th November then one there from the 1 1 th to the 17th. One was in the
Warland/Whiteholme area on the 10th November with two on the 23rd November and one
again on the 1st December. Singles flew over Barnsley on the 20th November; at Wath on the
15th December and at Stannington on the 1st.

Two were at Cray [VC64], on the 16th March then, during the latter months, seven at
Whetstone Gate on the 1 6th/1 7th November and, at Swillington Ings, one flying south-east on
the 22nd November; four there on the 8th December and ten on the 9th. One at Bolton-on-
Swale [VC65], on the 30th October.

115

Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos

Accidental from eastern Asia; two records; at Knaresborough in 1985 and Flamborough in
1988.

A male at Harthill between 14th and 1 7th March. (SL et al )

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella

Resident; numbers have decreased alarmingly in recent years.

The only comment received from the east of the county concerned TLNR where it was stated
that this species seems to be thriving as a breeding bird. In VC63, generally scarce in upland
areas and Pennine valleys. Few breeding records were received from either the Bradford or
Halifax areas; stated as declining in the Huddersfield area though well distributed in the east
and central part of that recording area. Good numbers in both the Barnsley and Sheffield areas,
away from the uplands, whilst healthy populations exist in the Doncaster area [35 pairs at
Wilsic]. Status in VC64 varies with a steady population in some areas though declining in
others. No comments from VC65.

Many locations reported large flocks during the winter months though, along the coast south
of Filey, the best count, excepting near Bridlington, where c.400 were reported on the 31st
December, was of 50 at Flamborough on the 16th November. In VC62, 100 were at Burniston
on the 5th February and 170 at New Marske on the 4th. 220 were at Wilsic [VC63], on the 3rd
January with 170 there in mid-March, whilst, elsewhere in this VC, 90 were at Hatfield Moor
on the 14th January; 104 at Thrybergh CP on the 29th then 200 near Laughton en le Morthen
[SK58] on the 8th February and 120 at Denby Dale on the 14th March. In the latter months,
125 were at Wilsic on the 17th October; 175 there on the 21st December and 90 at Wintersett
on the 29th. A flock of 30 at Oulton [VC64], increased to 400+ during adverse weather in
January only to disperse, as quickly, when a thaw set in. No other flock in this VC exceeded
30 in these early months whilst the only flocks of any significance during the latter months
were of 60 at both Knostrop SF and Lowther Lake in December.

Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana

Rare passage migrant with an autumnal bias.

In spring, a single male was at Spurn on the 27th May with a single female at Kilnsea on the
29th and 30th. Four single birds were recorded in autumn, at Spurn on the 1 7th September;
Kilnsea on the 20th then a juvenile at Kilnsea from the 2 1 st to the 23rd and one at Flamborough
on the 23rd.

Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica

Rare passage migrant; 25 records with 23 since 1975.

One, a male, was present at TLNR on 22nd April (FAW). One, probably a first-winter male,
was at Flamborough on 21st September, (MN) whilst one, of uncertain age and sex, was at
Kilnsea on 22nd and 23rd September. (DP: PSm; DS).

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla

Rare passage migrant with an autumnal bias. 43 records 41 since 1972.

One, near Kilnsea church on 23rd September whilst one was recorded at Spurn on 2nd October.
Addition to the 1994 Report: One at Ness Point on the 22nd October (TLB; JB: RSS).

Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola

Accidental from Finland eastwards; six records since 1975, one being in spring.

Single females or first-winter birds were at Spurn on September 4th (PA1I: MJP: BRS eta!) and
from the 8th to 10th (LJD; NPW et al) and. at Filey, on the 8th (CCT et al).

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoenicus

Resident and passage migrant; possibly a slight decline recently.

The only comment received from VC61 was of a slight decline at TLNR. Stated to be declining
in the north of the York Ornithological Club recording area [VC62], Good numbers bred along

116

the R. Aire in the Bradford area of VC63 and was said to be well distributed, at suitable
moorland sites and along the R. Calder, around Halifax. Similarly distributed around
Huddersfield but less common along the rivers. Declining at some lowland sites around
Sheffield though still considered to be common; little change around Doncaster but appeared
to be still declining around Barnsley being most common at lowland sites; [Wintersett having
80 pairs in 1976 but only 27 singing males this year], 80 pairs bred at Blacktoft Sands.
Breeding status was considered to be down in many areas of VC64. Rather scarce as a breeding
bird in VC65 however survey work along the R. Wiske found the species to more common
there than previously suspected.

Only small numbers were recorded along the coast, most being considered to be migrants. 49
[only six females] at TLNR on the 6th April was considered impressive whilst the maxima at
the LDNNR were 61 on the 3rd October and 70 during November. Only small gatherings
reported from VC63, usually 20 to 40 with 52 at Thrybergh CP on the 21st December as
maximum. 200 were recorded on set-aside at Oulton [Leeds], in late January though numbers
soon fell; 20 at Staveley NR in September as the next largest gathering reported.

Corn Bunting Milaria calandra

Resident; absent from the higher ground; declined greatly in recent years.

Small numbers bred in the extreme east but 15 pairs near TLNR was excellent, though there
were few elsewhere in VC6I and few in VC62. Not recorded in the Halifax or Huddersfield
areas of VC63 whilst a lone bird was all from the Bradford area. Restricted to the lowland sites
in the east and north-east parts of the Barnsley area with some 25 singing males located of
which 14 were in the Billingley area. Declining around Sheffield with most records coming
from the east. Declined in most of the remaining strongholds in the Doncaster area but a slight
increase was noted on Hatfield Moors whilst 13 singing males were located at three sites in the
Pontefract area. Still declining in VC64, even in the east around Drax, where much of the
habitat is favourable. A regular breeding species, in VC65, along the R. Wiske and the middle
reaches of the R. Swale.

During the early months large flocks were recorded in VC61 with c.100 at Wei wick Saltmarsh
on the 14th January; 140 at Flamborough on the 28th January and 120 on the 31st whilst 40
there on the 3 1 st March and 50 on the 2nd Apri I were isolated peaks. 50 at Whenby on the 24th
February was the largest party reported from VC62. 200 were at Southfield Res. [VC63], on
the 28th January; 133 at Wilsic on the 17th; 86 at Harthill Res. on the 4th February whilst up
to 50 were at two sites in SK58 during this month. There was an increase in records from the
Harrogate area [VC64], with up to 41 at Boroughbridge in January and 22 at Langthorpe in
March. 26 were on set-aside at Oulton on the 29th January with 52 nearby on the 17th March
and 59 on the 24th. 60 near Yafforth [VC65], on the 17th January.

c.400 were near Bridlington [VC61], on the 31st December and up to 150 near Long Riston
during late December whilst 65 were near TLNR in early October and, at the LDNNR, 60 were
near Thornton on the 28th December. No parties of any note were reported from VC62 during
these latter months whilst, in VC63, 42 near Harthill Res. was their peak count. No significant
numbers in VC64 and, in VC65, 55 were near Yafforth on the 7th December was the peak count
in that area.

Category D

Species that would otherwise appear in categories A or B of the British List except that there
is reasonable doubt that they have ever occurred in a natural state.

None Recorded.

117

Category E

Species that have been recorded as introductions, transportees or escapees from captivity, and
whose breeding populations [if any], are thought not to be self-sustaining.

Chilean Flamingo Phoenicopterus chilensis
One at Wykeham Lakes on the 16th and 17th May

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

The individual seen flying south-easterly over Skinningrove and Boulby on the 14th April was
almost certainly an escaped bird seen along the east coast during this month.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus

Present at Castle Howard all year. Two, with two young, at Low Skirlington [near Hornsea].
One was present in Whitby Harbour between the 12th and 24th March. One, near Listerdale
Wood, on the 22nd September.

Bar-headed Goose A user indicus

An adult at Wheidrake Ings between the 19th and 29th February and again on the 11th May
and from the 7th to 15th September. One at Southfield Res. on the 26th March and one at
Blaxton GP on the 6th April. Two, at Axle Lane [SK58], on the 27th August.

Hawaiian Goose Anser sandvicensis

One, at Wheidrake Ings from the 7th to 15th September, in association with the Bar-headed
Goose.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa

A pair, displaying, at Carr Forge Dam [Sheffield] on the 1 9th and 2 1 st April; the male last being
seen on the 1 1th May with what was no doubt the same individual being reported from Bolehill
Flash.

Two males at Saltbum from the 28th May to the 27th June, one of which had a damged wing
and remained to the 7th July when it was captured and released at Skelton Castle.

Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix

Two [free flying], on pond, at Low Skirlington, all year. An immature male was at Thorpe
Marsh on the 13th and 14th January and the 3rd and 23rd February. What may have been this
bird appeared at Southfield Res. at the end of February being recorded again on the 8th March.

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea
A male at Filey Dams on the 5th March.

White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis
Single female at TLNR on the 11th and 17 August.

Red-tailed Hawk Buleo jamaicensis

One, wearing jesses, at Spurn, on the 27th April.

African Grey Parrot Psiliacus erithacus
One, over Kilnsea, on the 23rd November.

The following three species were recorded at several locations whilst some societies/areas do
not bother to publish such records. Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus. Budgerigar
Melopsittacus undulatus. Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula krameri.

118

Rare Breeding Birds in Yorkshire

Observers who have first-hand knowledge of rare breeding birds within the county are
requested to submit their evidence to the appropriate Vice-County Recorder; Report Editor or
direct to the Rare Breeding Birds Panel, if the observer so wishes. The system used by the
Panel for indicating geographical locations is done on a regional basis with Yorkshire being
part of 'England North’. In some instances the county will be named but should the observer
request the omission of 'Yorkshire' this will be respected by the Panel with only the region
being named. A full list of the species considered by the Panel appeared in British Birds 81;
102-103. Species that are known to have bred, or attempted to have done so in recent years, in
Yorkshire, are listed below:

Black-necked Grebe

Pintail

Pochard

Marsh Harrier

Goshawk

Quail

Black-tailed Godwit
Golden Oriole
Black Redstart
Parrot Crossbill

Little Bittern
Garganey
Honey Buzzard
Montagu’s Harrier
Hobby
Corncrake
Little Gull
Bluethroat
Fieldfare

Common Rosefinch

In addition, brief outline details of numbers of Schedule 1 species are requested [area; numbers
and success].

Panel report forms are available from the Report Editor; Vice-County Recorders or direct from
the RBBP. [Dr. M. A. Ogilvie, Secretary RBBP, Glencaim, Bruichladdich, Isle of Islay, PA49
7UN],

119

The Need for Field Descriptions

It is our aim to continue to present these reports with complete accuracy so that those who use
them in the future may accept the records of all species without doubt or query.

To maintain this accuracy, contributors are reminded that all records or rare or uncommon and
difficult species are considered by the Reports Committee before being accepted for
publication and, where appropriate, forwarded to the British Birds Rarities Committee for their
decision.

The work of the Reports Committee can be aided considerably if observers will submit
descriptions as soon as possible after the bird has been seen. Details should include the
description taken in the field, before reference to any text books; the locality; date and time;
habitat; weather conditions; optical aids used; distance from the bird; period of observation;
species present for comparison, if any, and previous experience of the species. Forms based
upon those by the British Birds Rarities Committee can be obtained from any Vice-County
Recorder for submitting details of any of the species listed below.

Cory’s Shearwater

Great Shearwater

Mediterranean Shearwater

British Storm-Petrel

Leach’s Storm-Petrel

Little Egret

Purple Heron

Bean Goose

Ruddy Shelduck

Ring-necked Duck

Surf Scoter

Honey Buzzard

White-tailed Eagle

Montagu’s Harrier

Rough-legged Buzzard

Golden Eagle

Spotted Crake

Corncrake

Common Crane

Stone Curlew

Kentish Plover

Temminck’s Stint

Pectoral Sandpiper

Buff-breasted Sandpiper

Red-necked Phalarope

Pomarine Skua [inland records only]

Long-tailed Skua [inland records only]

Ring-billed Gull

Sabine’s Gull

Roseate Tern

Black Guillemot

Bee-eater

Short-toed Lark

Richard’s Pipit

Tawny Pipit

Cetti’s Warbler

Aquatic Warbler

Marsh Warbler

Icterine Warbler

Melodious Warbler

Dartford Warbler

Pallas’s Warbler

Red-breasted Flycatcher

Golden Oriole

Woodchat Shrike

Chough

Serin

Common Rosefinch

Cirl Bunting

Ortolan Bunting

Grey Phalarope Little Bunting

British Birds Rarities

A list of species, descriptions of which are required by the British Birds Rarities Committee
before publication in their Annual Report on Rare Birds in Great Britain, was last published in
British Birds, Vol 67 pages 347-348 and amended in Vol 75 page 338; Vol 80 page 422; Vol 83
pages 411-412; Vol 86 page 415 and Vol 92 pages 113-114.

Races and other unusual occurrences.

The Reports Committee may request descriptions to support records of well-defined races of
common species, or to support records of migrant birds out of season and commoner birds seen
in unusual circumstances.

120

Local Reports

The following local society and club reports for 1996 have been received and those readers
requiring more information on those areas are advised to consult the relevant report.

Barnsley Area Bird Report [Barnsley Bird Study Group]

Birds in Huddersfield [Huddersfield Birdwatchers’ Club]

Birds in Sheffield [Sheffield Bird Study Group]

Bradford Naturalists’ Society

Bradford Ornithological Group

Cleveland Bird Report [Teesmouth Bird Club]

Doncaster Bird Report [Doncaster & District Ornithological Society]

Filey Brigg Bird Report [Filey Brigg Ornithological Group]

Flamborough Bird Report [Flamborough Ornithological Group]

Halifax Birdwatchers' Club
Harrogate & District Naturalists' Society
Leeds Birdwatchers' Club
North Yorkshire Forest Bird Study Group
The Birds of SK58

Scarborough District Bird Report [Scalby Nabs Ornithological Group]

South Holderness Countryside Society [Newsletters]

Sorby Natural History Society [Newsletters]

Spurn Wildlife No.6 [Spum Bird Observatory]

Swaledale Ringing Report

Tophill Low Bird Report [Tophill Wildlife Group]

Upper Wharfedale Field Society
Wharfedale Naturalists’ Society
Whitby Bird Report

Reports and lists were also received from individuals or groups for their particular local area,
being as follows:

Barmston; Beacon Lane Ponds/Easington/Holdemess Log; Blacktoft Sands RSPB Reserve;
Castleford Naturalists’ Area; Drax Ash Mound; Hatfield Moors; Malham Tam; Pugney’s CP;
Thorne Moors; Swillington Ings; Wakefield area; Wintersett area.

The following is a list of observers who contributed to the Classified List with apologies for
any omissions. The co-operation of these observers and the very many others who submit
records to their local societies [and thus may be missing from this list] is very much
appreciated.

J. & J. Ackroyd: N. W. Addey: H. Addlesee: D. P. Adkin: K. Alexander: G. E. Alderson:
C. R. Allen. J. Allen: P. Allen [PA11]: A. M. Allport: J. Anderton: R. M. Andrews: P. Antrobus
[PAn]: R. H. Appleby: J. Appleyard: B. Armitage: P. Ashton: J. Atkin: Miss J. E. Atkinson: I.
Austin: T. Axelson: W. Bailey: D. J. Bamforth: K. Bannister: L. & M. Bardwell: D. Barker: T. J.
Barker: K. Barnes: R. Barnes: M. Barnett: D. Barrans: K. Barrow: Mrs. S. Barrow: S. J.
Barwick: G. M. Batten: P A. A. Baxter: M. Bayldon: B. Beaumont: D. Beaumont: J. A.
Beaumont: P. R. Beaumont: S. Beeby: D. J. Beeken: C. Bell: N. A. Bell: C. Bielby: D. P. Binns:
S. M. Bird: R. P. Blagden: M. A. Blick: A. Botterill: W. 1. Boustead: D. J. Bowes: P. K.
Bowman: K. & S. Boyd: P. Bray: E. D. Brett: R. Broughton: P. L. Brown: S. Bryan:
H. O. Bunce: J. Burnham: A. S. Butler: A. W. Butler: M. Butt: P. Butterworth: D. Bywater: P. J.
Carlton: G. Carr: G. B. Carr: G. M. Carr: D. Carroll: M. J. Carroll: N. Carter: G. P. Catley: M.
Chadwick [MCh]: P. Chambers: R. E. Chapman: P. Charles: Mrs. L. Charlton: T. D. Charlton:

S. Chester: E. G. Clark: W. A. Clarke: J. C. Clarkson: J. & M. Clay: E. W. Clubley: S.
Cochrane: A. Cockroft: T. Collinson: K. Colwood: D. R. Cooper: M. Cooper: J. W. Cooper:

T. I. Corbett: M. Corner: M. Coverdale: D. Cowton: P. K. Cox: R. D. Crawford: A. Creasey:

121

R. J. Croxton: J Crussell [JCr]: Mrs. M. Cunningham: P. Cunningham; J. Cudworth: W. F.
Curtis: J. E. Dale: J. M. Dale: P Daw: G. Dawes: A. Dawson: N. C. Dawtrey: L. J. Degnan: A.
Deighton: C. Dennison: S. Denny: K. L. Denton: A. B. Devitt: D. Devilt: M. J. Dixon: T. E.
Dixon: G. E. Dobbs: P Doherty: P. Dove: D. Driscoll: P. Drury: P. J. Dunn: J. B. Dunnett: K. A.
Dutton: R. A. Eades: R. Eckersley: J. R. Edwards: S. C. Elliott: T. M. England: R. Evison: S.
Exley: F. V. Fairbrother: S. Farish: C. Featherstone: A. P. Feenley: M. G. Fenner: E. A. Fisher:
G. T. Foggitt: G. W. Follows: A. Ford: A. Forsyth: 1. Forsyth: I). I. Fotherby: M. Francis: P.
Francis: T. Francis: Y. Gabrilovich: J. M. Gardner: S. Gear: A. Gibson. P. Gibson: G. Giggal:
L. Gillard: I. Glaves: J. H. Goddard: C. Gorman: A. G. Gouch: K. R. Gould: J. R. Graham: Miss
G. Grainger: R. Graves: R Greasley: P. Greaves: S. Green: B. Greenacre; A. Grieve: P. Griffin:
J. Grist: M. J. Grunwell: G. L. Haigh: M. C. Hall: C. Hansell: R. E. Harbird: R. Hardcastle: I.
Hargreaves: R. A. Harper: J. Hardman: R. C. Hart: A. Hawkins: J. Harwood: M. Hayes: K. J.
Hayhow: R. A. Haywood: D. Hazard: D. Heagnev: E. J. Hediger: W. J. Hesketh: J. Hewitt: S.
Hey: J. Higgins: B. Hill: R. D. Hill: P. J. &"s. j. Hinley: A?D. Hirst: D. G. Hobson: T. L.
Hobson: A. Hodgkinson: S. N. Hodson: G. Holmes: S. T. Holliday: R. N. Hopper: D.
Hursthouse: A. Hutt: G. Iceton: P. V. Irving: A. Isherwood: T. Isherwood: P. W. Izzard: G.
Jackson: J. Jackson: H. T. James; M. James: D. C. Jardine: A. F. Johnson: C. Johnson: S. Jones:

A. Jowett: G. Joynt: T. Keeler: D. Kidman: L. S. King: H. Kirk: K. L. Knight: T. Kuechel: H. C.
Laidlaw: J. Lane: P. A. Lassey: E. M. Laverick: J. Law: M. P Lawlor: W. M. Lealman: H. M.
Lealman: G. Lee: B. Leecy: P Leonard: T. Lewis: M. Limbert: G. M. Lindley. S. Lindop: S. M.
Lister: V. A. Lister: N. A. Littlewood: E. Lonsdale: I. Lonsdale: M. Lonsdale: P. Lonsdale: M.
Lynes: R. Lyon: T. Malkin: D. Mansell: A. Marshall: 1 Marshall: 1. Martin: J. Martin: J. I.
Martin: S. Martin: J. R. Mather T. McEvoy: J. McLoughlin: T. Melling: P. Meredith: E.
Merewether: M. Metcalfe: Miss A. Mettam: D. R. Middleton: P. Middleton: A. Miller: B.
Miller: S. Minns: F. X. Moffat: K. Moir: R. Monaghan: P. Monro: C. Moore: D. Morgan: N. J.
Morgan: S. Morgan: S. B. Morgan: A. J. Moms: P. R. Morris: A. Mottram: P. L. Mountain: K.
Mudd: S. Mulkeen: B. Newby: M. Newsome: P Newton: P. Nicholson: G. Nimmick: W.
Norman. A. Norris: S. Northwold: S. Ogley: A. O'Neill: P. Ottoway: D. Page: K. Parker: N.
Parker: H. Parkin: Mrs. S. Pashby: M. Passant: J. A. S. Patterson: D. M. Pearce: J Peltomaki:
Mrs. U. Peltomaki: C. J. Pendlebury: D. Perray: J. Pewtress: V. Phillips: D. Pickering; M. J.
Pilsworth: P. Pirringer: A. Porter: B. Porter: D. Porter: J. A. Pollintine: J. R. Prentice: D. J
Prest: N. A. Preston: M. Priestley: S. Radcliffe: J. Radcliffe: C. S. Ralston: N. Rawding: A.
Redman: S. Rees: K. Rich: B. Richards: D. Richardson: J. Richardson: M. G. Richardson: T.
Richardson: A. Roadhouse: G. Robinson: I Robinson: J. Robinson: N. J. Robinson: P. Roe: S.
Roebuck: K. Rotherham: J. Roworth: P. C. Roworth: M. II. Rowntree: D. A. Rushforth: P.
Sampson [PSm]: J. Sanderson: P. M. Scanlon: D. J. Scanlon: G. Scott: R. Scott: R. E. Scott: T.
Scott: R. Scullion: A. Scutt: K. Senior: N. P. Senior: P. Senior: B. Sharrock: P. Shawcross: D. J.
Simpson: S. P. Singleton: A. Sinnott: R. S. Slack: C. Slator: A. II. V. Smith: the late G. Smith:
J. N. Smith: P. Smith: B K. Smithson: L. Sollit: I. C. Spalding: G. A. Speck: G. J. Speight:

B. R. Spence: M. Spensley: R. J. Sprakes: D. Stables: D. J. Standring: R. Stephenson: E. C.
Sterne: Mrs. II. R. Sterne: N. Stewart: D. Stobbard: A. Stonier: M. F. Stoyle: B. Sumner: D. J.
Sutcliffe: R. C. Taylor: S. A. Taylor: C. C. Thomas: C. Thompson: E. Thopmson: F. Thompson:
R. Thompson; J. L. Topham: J. E. Turner: J. M. Turton: R. Twigg: G. Vause: H. Vilkaitis: B. P.
Waddington: D. M. Waddington: S. Wadsworth: I. Walker: C. Wall: D. I. M. Wallace: A. J.
Wallis: D. M. Walters: D. Ward: D. J. Ward: J. Ward: F. A. Wardman: Dr. J. Watkins: M.
Watson: T. & P. Webster: M. C. Wells: P. S. Wells: R. Westoby: A. J. Wheeldon: A. White: A.
Whitehead: H. J. Whitehead: N. P. Whitehouse: S. Wignill: J. Wilcox: P. Willet: D. J. Williams:
J. Williams [JW1J: R. Willison: P. J. Willoughby: Mrs. S. Willoughby: C. Winn: D. Wood: D.
Woodmansey: S. Worwood: J. Wozencroft: J. Wright: J. M. Youngs: A. Zabukas.

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