Report on the Birds of Nottinghamshire - 1943

Founded in 1889 by James Shipman, Esq., F.G.S., this Society had as its original object the awakening and developing of interest in Geology of all who were able to gather in the periodical field days. With increasing membership, the interests of the Society widened until today, besides the devotees of Geology, there are students of Botany, Ornithology, Entomology, Conchology, Archeology, Microscopy and Cryptogamic Botany. Each of these branches has its Recorder, to whom all items of value are passed for permanent record.

During the summer, official rambles are held fortnightly, while fortnightly lectures are given in the winter in the university College, Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, by kind permission of the college authorities.

A good deal of work is done unofficially, of course, small gatherings of members frequently setting off at all hours, and on any day on some special quest.

The annual subscription is 2/6 per member, or 2/- each for members of one family. Further details may be obtained from the Hon. Secretary, W. J. Leighton, Esq., 86 Wimbledon Road, Sherwood, Nottingham.

This Society, whose interests are purely ornithological, was founded some years ago by A. Mason, Esq. of East Bridgford, and quickly attracted members who were interested in the photographic, scientific, journalistic, aesthetic and humanitarian aspects of ornithology, and who were united in the common desire to acquire and diffuse knowledge of, and to further the protection of the objects of their study.

Meetings are held monthly in the Women's Institute, East Bridgford, and keen discussion follows the paper on some special bird topic which is usually the main feature of each meeting. Film shows and lantern lectures are also arranged from time to time, and when transport again allows facilities, summer ,outings to special breeding haunts of birds will be resumed.

The subscription is 1/- only per annum, which may be sent to the Hon. Secretary, J. Staton, Esq., The Falcons, Besecar Avenue, Gedling, Notts.

The main ornithological work of the past year has been the accumulation cf data for this Report, and though transport is a problem, a good deal of ground has been covered by the various members undertaking special enquiries on particular species.

The most spectacular results are the recording of the wader migration in the south of the county, and the recording of the breeding of the Black-headed Gull for the first time in the county, but much work has also been done, with valuable results, towards learning the distribution of other birds. It is intended to follow up this last line in future Reports, so that in time a really comprehensive account of all species will ensue.

When conditions again allow members to gather in full strength, it is felt that much enthusiasm will be engendered by personal contact, but in the meantime special thanks are due to all who have corresponded, without whose valuable help this Report could have been little more than parochial.

The Nottingham Natural Science Field Club and the Trent Valley Bird Watchers, in publishing these records from members and numerous correspondents, have been inspired by three main motives. Firstly, to give ornithological students a ground work on local contemporary bird life, secondly, to record the present status of the various species in the county, in order to provide material for comparison in future years, which must inevitably bring changes in bird life owing to changes in agriculture, social and industrial policies in our own species, and thirdly, to arouse and maintain the interest of new and old observers in order to co-operate in a closer local study of the problems of bird distribution in all their many-sided aspects.

The day may come when wild life as a national heritage and as a natural resource will become, as it should be, a matter of concern to those in high places, and in this connection it may be pointed out that intimate local knowledge is the first step to intelligent conversation of an amenity for the enjoyment of all, and to, a better view of the necessity for preserving a balance of nature on truly scientific and ecological lines.

This Report " halts in time," as it were, certain occurrences in local bird life, but to be really effective, the Report should appear annually. Only then shall we see increases or reverses in their true perspective.

To this end all contributors are asked to continue sending notes to the compiler, and to enlist the services of others as opportunity occurs.

For the intelligent study of the Report, a good map of the county should be used, from which place names can be traced, and from which the several sharply demarcated areas with very different physical features will be appreciated with regard to their effect on bird life. The serious student will derive interest also, if the Report is studied in conjunction with J. Whitaker's " Notes on the Birds of Nottinghamshire," 1908. The status of many birds has altered considerably since that time, as will be readily apparent from a perusal of this Report.

It is felt that due acknowledgment should be made to all who have made this Report possible, and to all observers this is made elsewhere. A debt of gratitude is owing to the Ornithological Section of the. Leicester Literary and Philosophical Society, who not only have published some Notts. records for the past two years )in their own report, but have steadfastly encouraged the idea of a separate Notts. Report, and by example have helped the present Report through its " teething period."

Thanks are especially due to many private and public land-owners for permission to visit special areas under their control, the splendid list of waders particularly being made possible by the way in which special privileges have been granted by the Nottingham Corporation through the interested co-operation, of Mr. A. R. Stone, manager of their farms. It cannot be too strongly stressed that many of the estates mentioned are not normally :open to the public, and any observer wishing to visit any special area is advised to communicate with the compiler of this Report, who will endeavour to include such observer in one of the small parties visiting these special areas from time to time.

The Systematic List which follows must necessarily follow scientific practice, and is of necessity brief, but it is felt that from the precise and orderly facts as printed, the reader will conjure up visions of the delightful days in field, woodland and marsh which have been the lot of those contributing to the Report. In the words of Fraser Darling " the aim of science should certainly be to remove the mystery from natural phenomena, but not to take away wonder, or that quality of nature which allows for the development and play of aesthetic appreciation. The objective analysis of nature is a field from which the artistic mind may gather strength and stimulation, to recreate from and interpret what is learned there,"

To the enthusiastic band of bird watchers who have sent in the notes recorded herein, the two societies tender their very best thanks and express the wish that their cc-operation will continue. Not everyone has the time at their disposal these days to follow their interest as they would wish, and it would be invidious to single out names for special mention, but to let this moment pass without special thanks to. those who have given a great deal of time and energy in order to be at the right place at the right time would be a serious omission and they will undoubtedly find reward for their splendid team work in this Report.

It is felt that observers generally may care to have names and addresses of all contributors, to enable contact to be made on points of mutual interest.

It has not been thought necessary to initial the information on the commoner birds, the remarks on these species being a summary of all information sent in.

Very practical help, in the shape of financial assistance towards the cost of the Report has been very kindly given by some of the above, and other interested friends.

HOODED CROW. Corvus cornix cornix (L.). Winter visitor. No report from south or central Notts. this year. Frequent at Osberton and Scofton in the north. (J.F.)

CARRION CROW. Corvus corone corone (L.). Resident, widespread. Locally common as in Trent valley.

ROOK. Corvus frugilegus frugilegus (L.). Resident. Distribution as breeder is thin in parts of central Notts. elsewhere common. A flock habitually feeding near Bullock has an unusual number of pied members.

JACKDAW. Corvus monedula spermolagus (VIEILL). Resident and common. Breeds in all old timbered parkland, and one cliff colony overlooking the Trent at Kneeton in the south.

MAGPIE. Pica pica pica (L.). Resident, common and increasing.

BRITISH JAY. Garrulus glandarius rufitergum (HART). Resident, increasing. Noted in winter in non-breeding areas.

STARLING. Sturnus vulgaris vulgaris (L.). Resident, abundant. A display of mutual bill pecking, followed by invitatory pose of female and coition noted in November (J.S.).

HAWFINCH. Coccothraustes coccothraustes coccothraustes (L.). Resident, widespread. Noted in spring at Kingston (T.A.M.H.), Colwick, Calverton (J.S., R.J.R.), Thrumpton (R.J.R.), all in south. In centre around Mansfield (C.B.), and north at Edwinstowe (A.E.C.). Autumn and winter at Colwick (J.S.) (R.J.R.), West Bridgford (A.E.C.), Beeston (M.B.Y.), and Babworth (V.B.T.).

GREENFINCH. Chloris chloris chloris (L.). Resident, abundant.

BRITISH GOLDFINCH. . Carduelis carduelis britannica (HART). Resident, fairly common. Increase in south, where noted every month (J.S.). Noted in summer at Widmerpool (G.F.T.), Mansfield (C.B.), Scofton (G.K.McC.), Oxton (R.G.W.). Flock of 70-80 near Felley, November and December (A.K.G.).

SISKIN. Carduelis spinus (L.). Winter visitor. Three seen in Wollaton Park, Nottingham in March. (R.J.R.).

LESSER REDPOLL. Carduelis flammea cabaret (P.L.S. MULL.). Resident and winter visitor. Flock seen at Wollaton in March (R.J.R.). Frequent autumn and winter in Trent valley, Nottingham to Newark (J.S.). Pairs noted mid-April to June at Ranby and Scofton, breeding strongly suspected (G.K.McC.). Pairs at Underwood April to July inclusive (A.K.G.).

LINNET. Garduelis cannabina cannabina (L.). Resident, common.

BULLFINCH. Pyrrhula pyrrhula nesa (MATH and IRED). Resident, widespread, increasing. Reported most areas. Not all individuals are destructive to fruit buds, as a close study throughout the year of three pairs in a willow holt with scattered hawthornes and dense growth of willow herb, meadow sweet and nettle, showed that these birds did not, leave the area and immediate vicinity throughout that time at any time of the day. The above birds were often in a loose flock even in spring, when chasing of a sexual nature was observed (J.S.).

TWO-BARRED CROSSBILL. Loxia leucoptera bifasciata (BREHM). Rare vagrant. Good views of one at Wollaton, December 22nd. Grossed mandibles and two white shoulder bars noted, and from colour the bird was immature or female (R.J.R.).

BRITISH CHAFFINCH. Fringilla colebs gengleri (KLEINSMIDT). Resident, abundant.

BRAMBLING. Fringilla montifringilla (L.) Winter visitor in fluctuating numbers.

CORN-BUNTING. Emberiza calandra (L.) Resident, well distributed. A special study of breeding distribution in 1943 showed this bird to be common throughout the county on or near arable land (J.S., R.J.R, T.R., A.M., G.K.McC., R.G.W.). Considerable song and chasing noted in winter flocks in Trent valley (J.S.). Flock of 46 noted near Mansfield in March (C.B.).

YELLOW BUNTING. Emberiza citronella citrinella (L.). Resident, common.

REED-BUNTING. Emberiza schoeniclus schoeniclus (L.). Resident. Owing to habitat, somewhat local.

HOUSE-SPARROW. Passer domesticus domesticus (L.) Resident, abundant.

TREE-SPARROW. Passer montanus montanus (L.). Resident. Widespread breeder in localised areas. Winter flocks fairly general.

WOOD-LARK. Lullula arborea arborea (L.). Resident, very local. One heard singing near Newton-on-Trent.; March 22nd by several observers familiar with the species (G. K.Mc.C. )

SKY-LARK. Alauda arvensis arvensis (L.). Resident, common. Nest of young hatched on March 29th, near Hucknall (J.T.P.). Influx of winter visitors noted in Trent valley.

TREE-PIPIT. Anthus trivialis trivialis (L.). Summer visitor, common. First heard April 12th (A.M.).

MEADOW PIPIT. Anthus pratensis (L.). Resident, well distributed. Fairly common in heather and bracken in centre and north.

YELLOW WAGTAIL. Motacilla flava flavissima (BLYTH). Summer visitor. Locally common in river valleys. First seen April 15th, near Nottingham (A.E.C.). Strong preference for potato fields as breeding site, often some distance from water, noted at Ranby (G.K.Mc.C.).

GREY WAGTAIL. Motacilla cinerea cinerea (TUNST). Winter visitor in small numbers. Last spring occurrence mid May near Gunthorpe (R.J.R.). " Earliest autumn September 9th at Newstead (A.M.). One February 14th at Kingston. One Attenborough, April 17th (F.H.). One near Wollaton, October 3rd (R.G.W.). One Sutton Bonington, December 2nd (T.A.M.H.). Odd ones Nottingham Sewage Farm, December (J.S., R.J.R.).

PIED WAGTAIL. Motacilla alba yarrellii (GOULD). Resident, thinly distributed. Passage movements noticeable in Trent valley.

BRITISH TREE-CREEPER. Certhia familiaris britannica (RIDGW). Resident, well distributed. Frequent outside breeding areas in winter.

BRITISH NUTHATCH. Sitta europaea affinis (BLYTH). Resident, well distributed in woodland areas. Noted at Wollaton (J.S.), and Oxton (R.J.R.). Fairly common north east of Mansfield (C.B.). Pair near Ranby, and three or four pairs about Scofton in 1943 (G.K.McC.). Pair August and November, Sutton Bonington (T.A.M.H.). One at High Park, Annesley, December 8th (J.S., R. J. R., A.K.G.).

BRITISH GREAT TIT. Parus major newtoni (PRAZAK). Resident, common.

BRITISH BLUE TIT. Parus coeruleus obscurus (PRAZAK). Resident, common.

BRITISH COAL-TIT. Parus ater britannicus (SHARPE and DRESS). Resident, thinly distributed. Not so common as next species.

BRITISH MARSH-TIT. Parus palustris dresseri (STEJN). Resident, well distributed.

BRITISH WILLOW-TIT. Parus atracapilla kleinsmidti (HELLM). Resident, more information wanted. Known to breed in north, In the south a pair were feeding a fledged brood at Calverton in June. (J.S., R.J.R.). Single birds at Bulcote and Fiskerton in November (J.S.) and Calverton in December (J.S., R.J.R.).

BRITISH LONG-TAILED TIT. Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus (MATHEWS). Resident, thinly distributed. Widespread as breeder. Flocks common from the end of June onwards in the centre and south (J.S.). Considered very scarce about Ranby in the north (G.K.McC.).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER. Muscicapa striata striata (PALL). Summer visitor, common. In 1943 seemed especially numerous in all districts in the south and centre (J.S., R.J.R.), and towards the north (C.B.).

BRITISH GOLDCREST. Regulus regains anglorum (HART). Resident. Local as breeder, widespread in winter. Fledged young seen near Blidworth (R.J.R.). Nest seen at Widmerpool, April 26th (R.G.W.).

CHIFFCHAFF. Phylloscopus collybita collybita (VIEILL). Summer visitor. Special study of distribution showed that although local in comparison with next species, scattered pairs are found throughout the county, where mature trees with undergrowth provide suitable habitat (J.S., A.M., R.J.R., C.B., F.H., G.K.McC.). First heard March 26th at Lambley (A.O.). Last heard September 15th, Carlton (J.S.).

WILLOW WARBLER. Phylloscopus trochilus trochilus (L.). Summer visitor, common. First heard April 5th at Colwick (R.J.R.). Last seen September 11th at Carlton (J.S.).

WOOD WARBLER. Phylloscopus sibilatrix (BECHST). Summer visitor, local. Fairly common in parts of Dukeries (C.B.). Five singing males heard in Nelson plantation half-way between Nottingham and Mansfield on May 23rd (J.S., R.J.R.). Two pairs at Scofton (G.K.McC.). Noted in August on migration at Stoke Bardolph (R.J.R.) and at Beeston 4th September (J.M.).

GRASSHOPPER-WARBLER. Locustella naevia naevia (BODD). Summer visitor, local. First seen near Hucknall, April 4th (J.T.P.). Pair at Fiskerton, May 2nd (J.S.). Bred at Mansfield Woodhouse and heard at Blidworth (C.B.). Pair at Southwell in May (F.C.H.S.). One at Colwick in June (R. J,R.). One heard at Ranby, 23rd April, but not afterwards (G.K.McC.).

REED-WARBLER. Acrocephalus scirpaceus scirpaceus (HERM). Summer visitor. Fairly common in its restricted habitat. Heard at Fiskerton (J.S.). Seen at Clifton (A.E.C., R.G.W.). One singing July at Shelford (R.G.W.). Abundant in north east Notts. in July R.J.R.).

SEDGE-WARBLER. Acrocephalus schaenobaenus (L.). Summer visitor. Common wherever suitable habitat is found. First heard Gunthorpe, May 1st (A.E.C.).

GARDEN-WARBLER. Sylvia borin (BODD). Summer visitor, widely distributed. Noted near Mansfield (C.B.). Fiskerton, Papplewick, Newstead, Annesley, Colwick and Oxton (J.S., J.T.P., R.J.R.) and Sutton Bonington (T.A.M.H.). First seen April 25th at Colwick (J.S., R.J.R.).

BLACKCAP. Sylvia atracapilla atracapilla (L.). Summer visitor, not so frequent as last. Noted at Colwick, Thrumpton Oxton, Papplewick, Newstead and Beauvale. (J.S., R.J.R.), Kingston (T.A.M.H.) and Osberton (J.F.). First heard East Bridgford, April 27th (A.M.).

WHITETHROAT. Sylvia communis communis (LATH). Summer visitor, common. First seen East Bridgford, April 22nd (A.M.). Last seen Gedling, September 5th (J.S.)

LESSER WHITETHROAT. Sylvia corruca corruca (L.). Summer visitor, thinly distributed. Noted Gedling, Colwick, Oxton Fiskerton and Thrumpton (J.S., R.J.R). Seemingly absent at Ranby. (G.K.McC.).

FIELDFARE. Turdus pilaris (L). Winter visitor, common. First seen November 11th, Gedling (V.S.). Passage noted to end of April in Trent Valley (J.S.). Abundant, High Park Annesley (A.K.G.).

MISTLE-THRUSH. Turdus viscivorous viscivorous (L). Resident, well distributed. Influx of winter visitors also noticeable.

BRITISH SONG THRUSH. Turdus ericetorum evicetorum (TURTON). Resident, common. A newly fledged brood, one of which was pure white was seen being fed by their parents as late as September 13th at Carlton (J.S.).

REDWING. Turdus musicus musicus (L.). Winter visitor, common. First Seen November l 11th, Gedling (V.S.).

BLACKBIRD. Turdus merula merula (L.). Resident, abundant. Several records of sub-song in winter (J.S.).

WHEATEAR. Oenanthe oenanthe oenanthe (L). Passage migrant. Used to breed, but no recent records. Noted at Rufford and Budby (C.B.). Spring passage in Trent valley noted from April 11th to May 9th. Autumn from July 14th to September 7th (J.S., R.J.R., R.G.W.).

WHINCHAT. Saxilcola rubetra (L.). Summer visitor. Widespread in localised areas. Noted about Mansfield (C.B.). Ramsdale, Blidworth and Rainworth (R.J.R.), Colwick, Calverton and Bulcote ( J. S., R.G. W.), and Lowdham (A.O.). First seen April 25th at Colwick (J.S., R.J.R.).

REDSTART. Phoenicurus phoenicurus phoenicurus. Summer visitor, local. Common in woodlands of Dukeries (C.B.). A few further south at Newstead (J.S.). Pair with young in June at Ranby (G.K.McC.). Female on passage at Beeston 5th September (J.S.M.).

NIGHTINGALE. Luscinia megarhyncha megarhyncha (BREHM). Summer visitor, local. Scattered pairs in Dukeries (C.B.). One singing regularly at Lowdham in May (A.O.). Seen and heard at Widmerpool and Cotgrave (G.F.T.).

BRITISH ROBIN. Erithacus rubecula melophilus (HART). Resident, common.

BRITISH HEDGE-SPARROW. Prunella modularis occidentalis (HART). Resident, common.

WREN. Troglodytes troglodytes troglodytes (L.). Resident, common.

SWALLOW. Hirundo rustica rustica (L.). Summer visitor, common. First seen March 27th, Burton Joyce (J.S.). Last seen October 23rd, Burton Joyce (J.S.).

HOUSE MARTIN. Delichon urbica urbica (L.). Summer visitor, common. First seen April 7th, West Bridgford (A.E.C.). Last seen October 27th, Bulcote (J.S.).

SAND MARTIN. Riparia riparia riparia (L.). Summer visitor. Abundant locally in suitable habitat. First seen April 5th at Colwick (R.J.R.). Last seen October 10th at Netherfield (J.S.). On August 22nd a flock of about 200 were noted feeding on the ground on bare fallow at Bulcote. After 20 minutes of this unusual behaviour the ground was examined, and was found to be covered with small flies. This was on a warm clear morning, with no lack of insect life in the air (J.S.).

SWIFT. Apus apus apus (L.). Summer visitor, common. First seen April 15th near Nottingham (R.M.). Last seen September 14th, Sutton Bonington (T.A.M.H.).

NIGHTJAR. Caprimulgus europoeus europoeus (L.). Summer visitor, local. First seen May 8th near Blidworth (J.W.R.). Thinly distributed in Dukeries (C.B.). At Osberton, due to disturbance, only two pairs located in area which in previous year had five to six pairs. (J.F.) Passage birds noted at Gedling, August 8th (J.S.), and Holme Pierrepont in September (R.J.R.). 16 9

KINGFISHER. Alcedo athis ispida (L.). Resident, well distributed. Seen frequently in suitable spots of Trent, Greet, Doverbeck and Cockerbeck valleys all the year round (J.S.). Fairly frequent about Mansfield (C.B.). Noted at Ranby (G.K.McC.).

GREEN WOODPECKER. Picus viridis plurius (HART). Resident, thinly distributed. Not so numerous generally as next species. Fairly frequent Dukeries (C.B.). Noted, Lowdham, Colwick and East Stoke (J.S.), Stoke Bardolph (R.J.R.), Oxton (E.D.), Southwell (C.H.C.), Edwinstowe (A.E.C.), Widmerpool (G.F.T.), Heard at Laxton and Wellow mid-April, absent Ranby (G.K.McC.). Heard at Wollaton (M.B.Y.), and Eastwell and Barton-in-Fabis (R.G.W.).

BRITISH GREAT SPOTTED. WOODPECKER. Dryobates major anglicus (HART). Resident, fairly common. Widespread east and north-east of Mansfield (C.B.), also noted at Colwick. Lowdham, Burton Joyce, Fiskerton, Wollaton, Carlton, Gedling, Annesley, Newstead, Fast Bridgford, East Stoke, Edwinstowe (J.S., R.J.R., A. M.,T.R., F.H., A.E.C., A.K.G.), Oxton (E.D.), and at Clifton, Colston Bassett and Owthorpe (R.G.W.), Ranby, Moreton and Scofton (G.K.McC.).

BRITISH LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER.. Dryobates minor comminutus (HART). Resident, local. Fairly common, Dukeries (C.B.). Pair noted Holme Pierrepont (A.E.C.). Noted at Blyth (R.J.R). Scarce at Osberton (J.F.).

CUCKOO. Cuculus canorus canorus (L.). Summer visitor, common. First heard, April 19th, near Hucknall last heard same place June 27th (J.T.P.).

LITTLE OWL. Athene noctua nivalii (A.E. BREHM). Resident, common throughout the county. Nests chiefly in old pollard willows in Trent valley (J.S.). Noted entering rabbit burrows near Oxton (J.W.R.).

LONG-EARED OWL. Asio otus otus (L.). Resident, local. One nest found in a locality east, and one nest south-east, of Mansfield (C.B.). A previous breeding haunt at Osberton destroyed by tree felling, and birds not located this year (J.F.).

SHORT-EARED OWL. Asia flammeus flammeus (PONTOPP). Winter visitor in small numbers. Seen most winters on Nottingham Sewage Farm. Two were seen there on the 28th February (R.J.R.)

BRITISH TAWNY OWL. Strix aluco sylvatica (SHAW). Resident, common. Frequent on wooded cliffs bordering the Trent between Radcliffe and East Stoke. Also noted at Gedling and Fiskerton (J.S.). A cliff nest site found at Colwick (R.J.R.). In centre and towards the north of the county distribution is thinner, probably owing to game preservation (C.B.). Pair breeding at Ranby (G.K.McC.).

WHITE-BREASTED BARN OWL. Tyto alba alba (SCOP). Resident, thinly distributed. Nest sites in use at Colwick, Gedling and Lowdham (J.S.). and Oxton (J.W.R.). Seen at Scofton and Ranby (G.K.McC.).

PEREGRINE FALCON. Falco peregrinus peregrinus (TUNST). Rare vagrant. One was seen to stoop at a feral pigeon unsuccessfully and return to perch on a high clock tower in Nottingham on April 27th (R.J.R.).

MERLIN. Falco columbarius aesalon (TUNST). Scarce winter visitor. One seen at Nottingham Sewage Farm on September 18th (R.G.W.).

KESTREL. Falco tinnunculus tinnunculus (L.). Resident, common.

COMMON BUZZARD. Buteo buteo buteo (L.). .Rare vagrant. Single bird seen on two occasions over Colwick in September were considered to be of this species, and while they were undoubtedly Buzzards, they were very high and an element of doubt must remain as to the exact species (R.J.R.).

SPARROW-HAWK. Accipiter nisus nisus (L.). Resident. Distribution thin as breeder, more common and widespread in winter.

COMMON HERON. Ardea cinerea cinerea (L.). Resident, common. Largest colony in the county is at East Stoke near Newark, where on April 18th there were 41 occupied nests. At Colwick Park, Nottingham, there were 28 occupied nests on April 25th (J.S., R.J.R., T.K.). A very few pairs nest on the big estates in the. north (J.S., C.B.).

WHOOPER SWAN. Cygnus cygnus (L.). Winter visitor in small numbers. Two adults and one juvenile remained on the Treat and the Nottingham Sewage Farm nearby from mid-November, 1942, .till the end of March, 1943. (J.S., R.J.R., R.O.B., A.J.). One on Thoresby lake February 14th (G.K.McC.).

BEWICKS SWAN. Cygnus bewickii bewickii (YARR). Winter visitor in small numbers. On March 28th one adult was noted with the above Whoopers (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.), confirming identification of bird seen for some weeks by A.M.

GREY LAG-GOOSE. Anser anser anser (L.). Winter visitor in vagrant flocks. A flock of 40 "Grey" geese flying over Thrumpton near the Trent on January 3rd were considered to be of this species (T.A.M.H.). A flock of eight definitely identified on January 15th at Colwick (R.J.R.). A flock of 30 odd "Grey" geese at Colwick (T.R.), were probably of this species and a flock of 20 odd "Greys" at Sutton Bonington were definitely not Whitefronts (H.H.). Both latter records end of December.

CANADA GOOSE. Branta canadensis canadensis (L.). Resident, breeds in the county. Flock from Kingston Hall, south Notts., wanders a good deal in winter (T.A.M.H.). Flock of 21 on Clumber Lake, March 1st (G.K.McC.).

SHELD-DUCK. Tadorna tadorna (L.). Autumn and winter visitor. Regular in south at least. First autumn birds were three on July 21st from which date up to four were seen on occasions until October (R.J.R., J.S., R.G.W.), all on Sewage Farm at Bulcote. One on Thoresby Lake, February 14th (G.K.McC.).

RUDDY SHELD-DUCK. Casarca ferruginea (PALL). Rare vagrant. Excellent views of two, at rest and in flight, were - obtained on the Sewage Farm at Bulcote on September 12th (J.S.) The possibility of these being escapes cannot be dismissed, although they were very wild.

MALLARD. Asses platyrhyncha platyrhyncha (L.) Resident and winter visitor. Abundant locally, as on large lakes in the north, and especially in winter on Nottingham Sewage Farm and a nearby gravel pond (C.B., J.S., R.J.R.). A brood of young seen oz the Cockerbeck at Lowdham on April 29th (A.O.).

GADWALL. Anus sterepera (L.). Scarce winter visitor. Excellent views in good fight obtained of an immature bird on a Large gravel pond near Netherfield on October 31st (J.S., T.R.). Two were noted there three weeks later (R.J.R.).

TEAL. Anas crecca crecca (L.) Resident, local as breeder, abundant winter visitor. Duck and five small young seen on Sewage Farm at Bulcote in July (J.S., R.J.R.). Up to 600 same place autumn and winter (J.S., T.R.). Twenty-five in December on Felley Mill pond (A.K.G.).

WIGEON. Anus penelope (L.). Winter visitor, abundant locally. A flock of two to 300 regularly winter on Nottingham Sewage Farm, fighting between there and a gravel pond near Netherfield (J.S., A.M., R.J.R.). A pair near Ordsall in winter (G.K.McC.).

PINTAIL. Anus acuta acuta (L.). Winter visitor, locally in fair numbers. Pintail were present in unusual numbers over a wide area of the British Isles in the winter of 1942-3, Notts. receiving a fair quota of these, but during January and February a flock of from 30-40 was constantly seen on the Sewage Farm at Bulcote and on a nearby gravel pond (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.). 28 were also seen on Moorgreen Reservoir near Annesley on February 27th (R.G.W.). On the same gravel pond as above, two were present on September 20th, on the 21st three which remained until November 22nd on which date 19 were counted. Eight on December 19th and 11 on the 29th, same place. Six on Saltersford Dam, Oxton, December 27th (J.S., T.R., R.J.R.).

SHOVELER. Spatula clypeata (L.). Resident in fair numbers in the south, passage migrant and winter visitor. Summary of records shows about 12 to 15 pairs present throughout the breeding season on the Sewage Farm east of Nottingham, one brood of eight young in down seen with the duck on July 3rd, supplying proof of successful breeding. Flock of 42 seen there on August 9th, and 101 at a gravel pit, Netherfield, September 11th. From mid-September onwards small flocks, average 6 to 10, maximum 20, seen till the close of the year on both above areas (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.).

COMMON POCHARD. Aythya ferina (L.). Winter, visitor common. Found on all suitable waters. Population study on a gravel pond near Netherfield gave the following figures for this species. One September 26th, 10 October 3rd, 12 October 10th, 90 October 17th, and until the 31st, after which till the close of the year about 30 remained constant (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.).

TUFTED DUCK. Aythya fuligula (L.). Resident and winter visitor, common. Well distributed as breeder on lakes in centre and north (C.B.). Ten pairs, at least., on Newstead lower lake mid-May, one pair Quarry Banks, Newstead, same time (J.S., J.T.P., R.J.R., T.R.) Three on Saltersford Dam on June 20th (J.S., RJ.R). Chiefly winter visitor in the south in good numbers.

SCAUP DUCK. Aythya marila marila (L.). Scarce winter visitor. One immature bird on the Trent at Bulcote, December 25th (R.J.R., T.R.).

GOLDEN-EYE. Bucethala clangula clangula (L.) Winter visitor, regular in small numbers. In January, February and March from 2 to 6 were present on a gravel pond near Netherfield. All but one of these were "brown heads." On November 28th two and on December 19th three, December 25th five same place (R.J.R., J.S., T.R.). One adult drake and at least one "brown head" on Thoresby Lake, February 14th (G.K.McC.).

GOOSANDER. Mergus merganser merganser Winter visitor: Three seen on Thoresby Lake, February 14th (G.K. McC.).

SMEW. Merges albellus (L.). Scarce winter visitor. A fully adult male stayed on a gravel pond near Netherfield during January and February, and many series of diving times were obtained. 30 dives averaged 16 seconds each, the shortest being five seconds, .the longest 24 seconds. 43 percent. were o3 20 seconds or over. Three adult males on the .Same pond December 25th were still obviously settled at the close of the year (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.).

CORMORANT. Phalacrocorax carbo carbo (L.). Occasional visitor, chiefly late summer and autumn. One seen at Clifton early April by the Field Club. One immature over the Treat at Bulcote, August 15th, two or three passed over Colwick, September, and one stayed on a gravel pond at Netherfield from September 22nd till October 3rd (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.).

GREAT CRESTED GREBE. Podiceps cristatus cristatus (L.). Resident, well distributed. Breeds most waters in the Dukeries, but more there in winter (C.B.). Reverse seems the case in the south where breeding waters have few or no birds in winter. Breeding seems to have been early on Newstead lower lake for on May 23rd there were several well grown young (J.S., R.J.R.). In south, breeding at Netherfield, Wollaton, Clifton and Flintham (R.J.R., F.H.).

LITTLE GREBE. Podiceps ruficollis ruficollis (PALL). Resident, widespread. Is frequent in winter on non-breeding waters.

WOOD-PIGEON. Columba palumbus palumbus (L.). Resident, winter visitor. Common.

STOCK-DOVE. Columba aenus (L.). Resident, well distributed.

TURTLE-DOVE. Streptopelia turtur turtur (L.). Summer visitor, widespread. First seen April 29th, East Bridgford (A.M.). Last seen September 22nd at Bulcote (R.J.R.). 12

BAR-TAILED GODWIT. Limosa lapponica lapponica (L.). Passage migrant, spring and autumn. Four seen (one in red plumage) at Burton Joyce, May 9th, six on July 27th and then up to six seen regularly until September 2nd, all on Nottingham Sewage Farm. (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.M., R.G.W.).

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT. Limosa limosa limosa (L.). Passage migrant, autumn. One August 15th, six on the 23rd, one on the 25th, one on the 28th, two on September 1st, one on the 6th, two on October 17th. All on Nottingham Sewage Farm at Bulcote (J.Sy, R.G.W., R.J.R., T.R.).

COMMON CURLEW. Numenius arquata arquata (L.). Passage migrant and winter visitor, abundant locally. Summary . of records from Nottingham Sewage Farm and the adjacent part of Trent valley east of Nottingham shows that 80 to 120 winter in the area, and that this number is often seen in one flock, at other times being loosely scattered over six to seven miles of the valley. Last spring occurrence May 9th (8). Earliest autumn July 18th, 11 birds. 90 August 28th, peak of 220 on the 23rd September. Afterwards as above (A.M., J.S., R.J.R., T.R.). One seen near Moorgreen Reservoir December 15th (A.K.G.).

WOODCOCK. Scopolax rusticola (L.). Resident, winter visitor. Thinly distributed. Breeds thinly in woodlands centre and north of county (C.B.). One seen "roding" in wood on Oxton Hill (J.W.R.). Seen in summer High Park wood, Annesley (A.K.G.). One February 28th, in a willow holt at Fiskerton (J.S.).

COMMON SNIPE. Capella gallinago gallinago (L.). Resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeds: in most suitable areas centre and north (C.B.), and in Doverbeck valley near Calverton and Oxton. and Trent valley east of Nottingham (J.S.). Noted in June on Foulevil Brook, Rainworth (R.J.R.). Common autumn on Nottingham Sewage Farm (up to 90 rioted) and frequent winter. An example of the melanistic variety formally known as Sabines Snipe was seen here on September 19th.: Frequent on shores of a gravel pond near Netherfield in autumn (peak of 60 on October 23rd), and in winter (J.S., R.J.R., T.R. ).

JACK SNIPE. Lymnocryptes minimus (BRUNN). Passage migrant and winter visitor, local. One seen on., Sewage Farm at Bulcote, October 31st (J.S., T.R.).

TURNSTONE. Arenaria interpres interpres (L.). Rare passage migrant. One in full breeding dress under observation for some time at close quarters on Nottingham Sewage Farm on May 9th (J.S., R.M., R.J.R., T.R.), and again on the 11th (R.J.R.). One same area on July 21st in part winter plumage, seen about fox some days (R.J.R.).

KNOT. Calidris canutus canutus (L.) Rare passage migrant. Three in nuptial dress on Sewage Farm, Bulcote, July 21st (R.J.R.). One in winter plumage same place end of July and early August (J.S., R.J.R.). 14

DUNLIN. Calidiris alpina subsp (?). Passage migrant and winter visitor;, common locally. Summary of Nottingham Sewage Farm records shows up to 39 present from January to mid-May. First autumn birds were five on July 1st, numbers then rose rapidly to 80 on the 28th, remaining about this level during August. Numbers dropped after mid-September to 20-30; usually broken into small parties (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.). One seen May 23rd, Moorgreen Reservoir (J.S., R.J.R.).

CURLEW-SANDPIPER. Calidris testacea (PALL). Passage migrant, local. One May 9th. Two on August 22n4. 17 on the 28th, 21 on the 31st, 20 and 14 on September 1st, 66 on September 15th. Numbers then fell rapidly, very small numbers being noted until .the 22nd. All on Nottingham Sewage Farm at Burton Joyce and Bulcote. Owing to the unusual numbers, very great care was taken in identification, no bird being put on record until the white rump was clearly seen in addition to other distinctive features (J.S., R.J.R., T:R., R.G.W., and members of Leicester Ornith. section).

LITTLE STINT. (Calidris minuta (LEISL). Passage migrant, local. Passage in autumn east of Nottingham as follows. First seen on Sewage Farm on September 2nd, one bird. Five on the 15th, three on the 19th, and four on islets in gravel Pond near Netherfield same morning. 12 at the Sewage Farm on the 20th, six. on the 21st and one at the Gravel Pond, four on Sewage Farnrdon on the 22nd and two on the 29th. One same place October 3rd. In all cases closely adjacent Dunlin and Ringed Plover enabled comparison in size easy, these two waders completely dwarfing the present species. The short straight bill and other features noted (J.S., R.J.R. T.R.).

SANDERLING. Crocethia alba (PALL). Rare passage migrant. Three in pale winter dress, on Nottingham Sewage Farm at Bulcote on the 21st July, two in summer plumage, same place, on July 27th. All five as above on the 29th (R.J.R., T.R.).

RUFF. Philomachus pugnax (L.). Regular passage migrant and winter visitor, local. Six on February 21st, 32 on the 27th, 21 on March 17th, six on the 21st, 16 on April 4th, two on July 21st, six on the 7th August, 25 on the 23rd, 14 on the 15th September, 28 on the 16th, 46 on the 21st, 30 on the 23rd, 14 on the 29th, three on October 3rd, two on the 10th, four on the 23rd, one on the 31st, two on December 12th. All on Nottingham Sewage Farm (J.S., A.M., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.).

COMMON SANDPIPER. Actitis hypoleucos (L.). Passage migrant. Abundant Nottingham Sewage Farm. Spring passage, thin. Autumn birds noted from June 30th to September 26th

WOOD-SANDPIPER. Tringa glareola (L.). Scarce passage migrant. Satisfactory views of diagnostic characters and typical calls (chiff-chiff-chiff) heard as follows on Nottingham Sewage Farm. Two on August 8th, and one or two constantly (possibly same birds) until September 5th (R.J.R., J.S., T.R., R.G. W.).

GREEN SANDPIPER. Tringa ochropus (L.). Passage migrant, common locally and occasional winter. Abundant Nottingham Sewage Farm, summary of records as follows. Up to five single birds January and February. Four on July 1st, 19 on the 21st. 30 on August 10th, 39 on the 15th, 30 on the 28th, 21 on the 29th. 22 on September 21st. Seven on October 3rd and three on bank of gravel pond, Netherfield. One at the latter place October 17th, then occasional odd ones till the close of the year (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.). Two on the Cockerbeck, Lowdham, November 18th (A.M.).

REDSHANK. Tringa tetanus subsp (?). Resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Nottingham Sewage Farm records. Flocks of 20 and 15 January 3rd, scattered birds up to 40 odd each visit February and March. Exact census of 44 on April 4th. 25 separate birds in song flight on May 9th. On June 30th a flock of 68 contained many juveniles. 80 on the 21st July, 70 on August 15th, 50 on September 15th. Then up to 30 or 40 till the close of the year. Except for the breeding season, not as numerous as late years (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.). Other localities, breeding east of Mansfield (C.B.). Two on Marsh 23rd and four on April 1st at Edingley (C.H.C.). One at Ranby, May 24th and a pair apparently breeding near that locality on the 12th June (G.K.McC.). One pair at least in song flight at Moorgreen Reservoir, May 23rd (J.S., J.T.P., R.J.R.). One in suitable breeding area in Doverbeck valley, Calverton, June 20th. (J.S., R.J.R.). Birds at Blyth and Clumber early July (R.J.R.).

SPOTTED REDSHANK. Tringa erythropus (PALL). Scarce passage migrant. First noted Nottingham Sewage Farm, one bird, September 5th. Six on the 15th (R.J.R.). One juvenile on the 12th (J.S.).

GREENSHANK. Tringa nebularia (GUNN). Regular autumn passage migrant. Nottingham Sewage Farm records. Five on July 21st, then up to six regularly till September 18th (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.).

RINGED PLOVER. Charadrius hiaticula hiaticula (L.). Passage migrant, common locally. Nottingham Sewage Farm records. Two on April 28th, two on the 1st July, numbers increased early August to 24 on the 14th, over 40 on the 15th. Numbers then fell sharply but increased at gravel pond near Netherfield to 43 on September 14th. One bird at Moorgreen Reservoir on May 25th (J.S., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W., J.T.P.).

GOLDEN PLOVER. Pluvialis apricaria subsp. (?). Passage migrant and winter visitor. Over a thousand on arable area of Nottingham Sewage Farm on 21st February, and for some weeks regular flighting night and morning, in and out of the valley. Common other parts of Trent valley. Last seen mid-May. A few coming through again in July, big flock of 500 on Sewage Farm on October 16th (J.S., R.J.R.). Up to 50 in flock autumn and winter Ranby (G.K.McC.).

GREY PLOVER. Squatarola squatarola (L.). Rare passage migrant. Four in winter plumage on Nottingham Sewage Farm 23rd and 24th September. In addition to other diagnostics, whitish area of rump and tail clearly noted (R.J.R.).

LAPWING. Vanellus vanellus (L.). Resident and winter visitor. Common breeder and flocks up to 2-3,000 common in winter especially in the south.

BLACK TERN. Chlidonias niger niger (L.). Regular passage migrant in small numbers. One bird on Nottingham Sewage Farm, September 5th (R.J.R. and Leicester O.S.).

SANDWICH TERN. Sterna sandvicensis sandvicensis (LATH). Passage migrant in small numbers. One over the Trent at Burton Joyce, June 8th (R.G.W.), and one same place on the 13th (J.S., R.J.R.).

COMMON TERN. Sterna hirundo hirundo (L.). Passage migrant in fair numbers. Over the Trent between Nottingham and Gunthorpe, these birds were present on all visits between May 28th and September 24th, 12 being the most seen at any one time (J.S., A.M., R.J.R., R.G.W., T.R.).

ARCTIC TERN. Sterna macrura (NAUMANN). Passage migrant in small numbers. Pair approached within seven feet on Trent bank at Nottingham on May 11th giving clear views of bill (A.E.C.), and others identified as opportunity occurred during the passage period of above species (J.S., R.J.R.).

LITTLE TERN. Sterna albifrons albifrons (PALL). Passage migrant in small numbers. One bird at Nottingham Sewage Farm, August 19th (J.S.). One same place 25th and three over gravel pond near Netherfield same day (R.J.R.).

LITTLE GULL. Larus minutus (PALL). Rare passage migrant. One adult bird watched at close quarters over the Trent at Burton Joyce on May 9th, when diminutive size, completely black hood, small dark bill and absence of black on wing were all noted (J.S., R.M., R.J.R., T.R.).

BLACK-HEADED GULL. Larus ridibundus ridibundus (L.). Resident and winter visitor. Present throughout the year on Nottingham Sewage Farm, up to 6-700 in winter. The first breeding colony recorded for this county was found here this year. Careful watching between early May and the end of July enabled 80 nests containing eggs to he found in three fairly distinct areas. Young in down were seen in nests, and some were successfully reared (J.S., R.M., R.J.R., T.R., R.G.W.). Birds noted throughout the year near Ranby in the north, and at Barnby in summer birds were noted in late evening flying towards the Twigmoor (Lincs.) colony (G.K.McC.).

COMMON GULL. Larus canus canus (L.). Passage migrant and winter visitor. A few noted early months of the year east of Nottingham, and from July onwards (J.S., R.J.R.).

HERRING GULL. Larus argentatus argentatus (PONT). Passage migrant and winter visitor. Noted in Trent valley between Nottingham and Newark, March and April and from July onwards till the close of the year (J.S., R.J.R., T.R.). One over the river :Soar near Sutton Bonington, September 9th (T.A.M.H.).

SCANDINAVIAN LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL. Larxas Fuscus Fuscus (L.). Passage migrant and winter visitor. Close study of Larus Fuscus shows that this form passes through Trent valley in small numbers, often in company with British form. Definite identification with comparative material present as follows. One on July 25th, two on August 12th, four on October 17th, Eight en the 31st (J.S., R.G.W.).

BRITISH LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL. Larus Fuscus Graellsii (BREHM) . Passage migrant and occasional winter. Numerous in the south and Trent valley. Spring passage from mid-March, 14 on April 25th, 18 end of May, one on the 27th June, seven on July 1st. 60 to 70 on, August 10th, 40 on September 22nd, 26 on the 26th, 14 on October 3rd, 20 on the 17th, 12 on November 6th (J.S., R.J.R., T.Re, R.G.W.).

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL. Larus marinus (L.). Passage migrant and occasional winter. Regular in the Trent valley, one on August 29th, one on September 6th, two on the 11th, six on the 12th, five on the 22nd and two October 16th, all between Nottingham and Gunthorpe. Three over Gedling, November 22nd (J.S., R.J.R.). Larger numbers than the above are altogether exceptional, but a record of 24 on Nottingham Sewage Farm on October 23rd seems satisfactory (J.M.).

CORN-CRAKE. Crex crex (L.). Summer visitor, scarce. Pair near Southwell in breeding season (F.C.H.S.). One calling at East Bridgford mid-May (reported to J.S.). One heard in June near Underwood (A.K.G.).

WATER-RAIL. Ralus aquaticus aquaticus (L.). Exact status obscure. Winter records only this year, ear, needs more investigation. One at Nottingham Sewage Farm, September 19th, and one near Colwick Hall, December 26th (J.S., R.J.R.).

MOOR HEN. Gallinula chloropus chloropus (L.). Resident, abundant.

COOT. Fulica atra atra (L.). Resident, common on all sizeable waters. A gravel pond near Netherfield carrying a summer population of 60 to 70 Coot, creates a problem, in that there are never more than six to 10 nests at most, suggesting that a big percentage of these birds are non-breeders. Is this phenomena observable on other waters?

PHEASANT. Phasianus colchicus (T.). Resident, common. An interesting case of this species nesting 18 feet up in the bushy top of a Scotch Fir, and getting the resulting 10 chicks away, is reported from Osberton (J.F.).

PARTRIDGE. Perdix perdix perdix (L.). Resident, common.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE. Alectoris rufa rufa (L.). Resident, well distributed. From reports is commoner in centre and north than south.

QUAIL. Coturnix coturnix coturnix (L.). Summer resident, very scarce. One heard at Watnall, and one near Hucknall, both on May 27th (J.T.P.)