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| Reports are available for the following
years: 2001 (includes Review of the Year, Bird Systematic List, Bat Report & Insect Report). *Just published* 2000 (includes Review of the Year, Bird Systematic List, Account of Dartford Warbler & Insect Report). 1998/99 (includes Review of the Year, Bird Systematic List & Insect Report). 1996/97 (includes Review of the Year, Bird Systematic List, Rarities Reports) The reports cost £2.50 each (including postage) *Special offer*Any three reports for £6.00 - post free! Reports can be obtained from: Andrew Self 16 Harp Island Close Neasden London NW10 0DF Send a cheque made payable to Andrew Self This is a sample report from the WHCG. It contains information from the 1996 and 1997 reports. The document is long and you may wish to use the hyperlinks to return to 'Contents' after reading each section. Alternatively, you can download the entire document by clicking here: Download |
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by Roy Beddard by Andrew Verrell by Andrew Verrell by Andrew Self by Andrew Self by Andrew Self by Andrew Self by Jan-Paul Charteris by Andrew Self |
| Introduction |
 nce again the Group was involved
in a wide range of activities throughout the year, including a full programme
of volunteer tasks, a report covering 1994 & 1995, further work on the book
and a full year of observing. The Group's financial state stays healthy and
existing cash reserves and interest from deposits were sufficient to fund the
activities carried out, hence no application for Grant assistance was made to
Barnet this year. There were no major management projects undertaken and the
winter's schedule of tasks consisted mainly of maintenance work. The two
Boroughs together with the voluntary groups have submitted a bid for money from
the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Group has been involved in the development of
this submission during the year. If successful there will be three conservation
projects, in the Eastern Marsh, the Northern Marsh and adjacent to Neasden
Recreation Ground. There is still an issue with the provision of Ranger cover
and in spite of correspondence earlier in the year the situation has not
improved and the new 'Ward Officers ' are seldom, if ever, seen over most of
the Open Space. Possibly linked to this lack of security cover there was a
spate of vandalism and attempted arson in the dry weather of early spring,
resulting in broken doors and windows and on two occasions attempts were made
to burn down the hides. This was compounded by the low water-level, lowered for
many months by half a metre while repairs were carried out on the River Brent.
Key-holders need to be especially careful in locking the hides when leaving and
although members of the public are welcome they should be politely asked to
leave if no other key-holders are present. On a more positive note the past
year has been an excellent year for birds and 1997 exceeded the previous best
year total and ended with a total of 148 species. The low water levels
contributed more wader records than usual, although in small numbers.
Conservation Activities The usual programme of winter tasks were carried out, these included work on the island to create a shallower edge, raft maintenance and in the early spring several tasks were devoted to repairing fire damage to the screens adjacent to the small hide. The low water levels for most of the 96/7 winter prevented the completion of many water related tasks and some of these have been transferred to winters 1997/8/9. An example will be the cutting of reed adjacent to the channel through the main reed-bed. Management of reed-bed edges is especially important for scarce wintering birds such as Bitterns, one of which spent 2-3 months in the Eastern Marsh during winter 1996/7. The work carried this year was relatively inexpensive and was funded from reserves, an application for a small grant to cover maintenance tasks will be made to Barnet during 1998. The Neasden reed-bed project mentioned in last year's annual report has yet to start, and although finance from the Environment Agency is still possible there is still insufficient match funding to enable the project to proceed. The low water-level allowed a profusion of plant growth on the new island and its removal was a major activity this winter during the December and January tasks. The main hide has been re-treated with preservative and is still in excellent repair. Surveys and Wildlife Records In1997 the early spring numbers of Great Crested Grebes were up to recent levels and there were two early broods in the Northern Reservoir which was promising. However the low and fluctuating water levels in the main reservoir prevented most birds from breeding until July/August when there was a late spurt of nest-building and egg-laying. At least ten pairs raised broods during late summer, resulting in the highest level of breeding success for many years. At the time of writing (May 1998) the grebe counts are down, with nine pairs on the main reservoir and three on the small reservoir. In 1997 the Common Tern colony was similarly successful with 21 pairs of nesting birds, the highest ever! Wildfowl breeding success was more mixed and although a number of Tufted Duck broods were seen, there were none of the scarcer dabbling ducks this year and there were only 2-3 very late broods of Ruddy Duck. Water levels returned to normal during autumn 97 and since then have been kept at a very high level, up to 20-25cm higher than previously. It remains to be seen what effect this high water level will have on breeding numbers of water-fowl. The 1997 Spring Bird-count was the best ever with a total of 80 species being seen on 26th April. In this total there were some really 'high quality' birds with a singing Grasshopper Warbler, male Pied Flycatcher, Wood Sandpiper and two large flocks of Arctic Terns. Rarities seen during 1997 included Great White Egret and a small flock of three Penduline Tits. These three birds provided London's third, fourth and fifth records, unfortunately they were present for only two hours and were seen by about twelve people. Amazingly these birds were found less than 100 metres from the location of last years record which was London's second. The fine summer weather was also good for insects and on two occasions in August observers reported seeing ten species of dragonfly in a morning which is exceptional for an urban site. There were further increases in sightings of Black-tailed Skimmer which was first recorded at the reservoir only 3-4 years ago. Education and Publications The hides continue to provide a major focus for bird-watching activity at the reservoir with continued use by individuals, school parties and local birding groups. At the time of writing the water has returned to normal level and there is once again about nine inches of water under the main hide. Work continues on the history of the reservoir's bird-life which is proving a major undertaking. The systematic list is mostly complete with just a few records for 1997 to be added. Many of the other chapters have also been written and the emphasis is now switching to consideration of illustrations, photographs and the preparation of the book for printing. In the latter we are fortunate in having the assistance of several publishing 'professionals' who are associated with the Group. It is hoped that the book will be published in the Spring of 2000. The Group's regular report was produced this year, covering the records for 1994/5. It also contains articles of more general natural history interest. Roy Beddard - May 1998 Return to Contents |
| Review of the Year 1996 |
| Records are there to be broken and 141 species just beat last year's record by one. Spring and Autumn Bird Counts were successful and some rare birds were seen over the year: Blue-winged Teal, Night Heron, White-winged Black Tern, Ring-billed Gull and Penduline Tit, the latter two were new species for Brent. |
| JANUARY On 1st, five Water Rails, two Goldeneye and two Long-eared Owls which stayed all month were a good start to the year. The next day six Scaup appeared, two staying until 6th. The 3rd produced two Pintail and on 6th the wintering Garganey made its only appearance of the year and last year's Blue-winged Teal re-appeared. The best Redwing numbers were c300 on 7th. 105 Lapwings were counted on 25th and Slavonian Grebe and Smew were found on 29th. |
| FEBRUARY The Slavonian Grebe stayed until 4th and one was seen on 10th and single Smew were present for most of the month. Five Goosander on 3rd was the highest count with several other ones and twos during winter. With up to three Goldeneye during the month, Long-eared Owls until 4th and wintering Firecrest seen several times it was an interesting month. |
| MARCH There were three Pintail on 2nd and a Smew was still present on 5th. A Scaup stayed from 9th until 15th. A Long-eared Owl was seen up to 12th and the Firecrest to 30th. A Woodcock was added on 17th and a Stonechat stayed from 25th until 28th. A major gull passage on 23rd produced a Ring-billed Gull and the following day a peak count of 262 Common Gulls. Spring started for us on 24th with Sand Martins and six Wheatears. On 30th a Rook appeared, and a Ringed Plover. The month ended with a Red-breasted Merganser on 31st. |
| APRIL The 1st saw an unexpected two White-fronted Geese flying over. Little Ringed Plover followed on 2nd. A Night Heron flew over for the lucky few on 5th. The first Common Tern on 11th led to 17 breeding pairs. Then Arctic Tern on 13th, Pied Flycatchers on 16th and 27th. After the first Swifts on 21st, Black Tern and Turtle Dove followed on 23rd. The Spring Birdcount on 27th finished at 70 species. Most common warblers were seen with the first Hobby of the year and Redstart, Whinchat, Cuckoo. It was, as always, an enjoyable day. The month ended with a pair of Black-necked Grebes on 29th and the year's peak of 31 Cormorants on 30th. |
| MAY Highlights were an all-day Oystercatcher on 4th and Osprey flying over the hide on 5th. Also on 5th, 35+ Swallows was the spring peak. Five Jackdaws flew West and a Whinchat added to mid-month Garden Warblers, Cuckoo and Spotted Flycatcher by month end. 17 Great Crested Grebe nests and three pairs of Little Grebes were noted on 7th. Ruddy Ducks reached their peak of 46 on 6th, a Whimbrel was seen on 10th and six Yellow Wagtails on 11th. |
| JUNE Song, nests, eggs, still plenty to watch. A few Lapwings, Little Ringed Plover mid-month and huge flocks of Swifts: 500+ on 23rd and 29th. The peak Canada Goose count of 210, mostly adults, was on 23rd. Rare birds can appear in June, but didn't. |
| JULY This month they did: White-winged Black Tern on 7th in splendid summer plumage. Thanks to mobiles and older red phone boxes, many bodies were summoned and by 5 p.m. over 50 had seen it. The day before, a female Gadwall with young was the first breeding record for the reservoir. On 15th a Common Buzzard added its tick to the year list. |
| AUGUST During the month a Red Kite was seen over a Kingsbury garden. On 3rd a Ringed Plover then on 12th eight Common Sandpipers with lower numbers before and after. There were a few Lapwings then a Hobby on 25th plus Whinchat and Yellow Wagtail proved that autumn migration was in full swing. 250 House Martins on 29th was the year's highest count. Another great Autumn Birdcount on 31st gave a total of 73 species: a Tree Pipit, 10 Lesser Whitethroats, Hobby, two Water Rails, Lapwing and six Common Sandpipers all added to a good day. |
| SEPTEMBER After this year's only Ring-necked Parakeet on 6th, the highlight of the month were Little Stints, two turned up on 15th and one of them stayed for a few days with another single seen later in the month. Four Dunlin on 21st along with the Common Sandpiper peak of 24. Wigeon arrived mid-month and Shoveler peaked at 109. |
| OCTOBER Late Autumn continued with Common Sandpiper on 1st, a Stonechat and two Rooks on 5th. On 6th there were two Tree Sparrows and an autumn mix of Swallows, Redwings, Pipits, Siskins, Redpolls, Skylarks, Chiffchaff, Water Rails, Snipe and a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. 24 Skylarks were counted on 22nd and on 24th, 863 Wood Pigeons flew SW. |
| NOVEMBER The month began slowly with a Shag on 2nd but went hyper mid-month with a 1st record for Brent and only the 2nd record for the London Area: a juvenile Penduline Tit feeding in rain on bulrush heads. Phone companies made profits, minicabs sped to the scene, rain-soaked regulars dashed to the spot, arriving out of breath to witness this wonder before their eyes, before it disappeared. The month continued with Ring-billed Gull reported on 17th, Snow Bunting on 23rd, the first of several Woodcock sightings this winter on 25th and two Goldeneye on 27th. |
| DECEMBER One of the best winter months ever! On 6th five Bewicks Swans then two more on 31st. A flock of 15 Twite made a rare appearance on 7th. Then on 20th two Little Gulls and five Pintail before a fine record of a ringtail Hen Harrier on 22nd. Goosander and Smew appeared several times with six of the latter on 31st. Jack Snipe on 24th, 14 Golden Plover and 15 Brambling flying over on 28th and 100 Fieldfares on 29th. This fantastic year was completed by a Bittern flushed on 31st. |
| Review of the Year 1997 |
| Finally we have had a year at the Brent that broke all previous records with 148 species being seen. Other records were broken, with nine species of raptor seen including Goshawk, a new species for the reservoir. Wader numbers were almost at their best with 20 species nearly equalling a record of 21 in 1961. Added to this, another new bird for the reservoir, the first record in the London Area of Great White Egret and a second appearance of Penduline Tits. A local reservoir reflects national trends and this was proved by the appearance of Crossbills during a country-wide irruption. With a record-breaking Spring Birdcount, a lot of excitement and enthusiasm ensued, and this continued until the end of the year. This was one of the driest and hottest years in the South East on record but it was British Waterways that partly drained the reservoir to expose much needed wader mud, allowing Black-tailed Godwits and others longer than usual stays. Common Terns built up to 21 pairs; Yellow-legged Gulls were around for most of the year and White Wagtails had their best spring ever. Great Crested Grebes had mixed fortunes with at least 13 broods and four pairs of Little Grebes were around in summer. The future is now loaded with questions: will this superb year total ever be bettered? Will warm South winds that drop Saharan dust onto the cars of London continue to bring yet more rare Herons and Egrets? After such a great year, the question: What next? |
| JANUARY The year began with two Bewick's Swans, a Curlew and two Smew, 1-2 of which were seen all month. Also on 1st, a Bittern was seen well and it too continued to be seen until 29th. Four Redshank flew over and another two stayed until 9th March along with a Chiffchaff that stayed all winter. On 2nd two Dunlin were seen along with six Goldeneye and the first of several Woodcock records. On 3rd a Grey Plover called and on 5th a rare bird for the Brent: a Merlin was seen as well as a Ringed Plover. A Tree Sparrow on 11th, Ring-necked Parakeet on 12th and the highest count of seven Goosander gave the distinct feeling of a good year ahead. A Firecrest was seen on 24th. This excellent month was rounded off with two Shags in flight on 26th. |
FEBRUARY The month started with the long-staying Redshanks and 1-2 Smew still around. On 6th a Green Sandpiper was found and it was seen many times during the month then through March and into April. The wintering Bittern was seen again on 15th. |
| MARCH Waders were on the move: on 8th four Curlew flew over, on 9th a Dunlin, with another on 24th and 15th saw a Jack Snipe, all too rare these days. The same can be said of a Yellowhammer also seen on 15th. At last spring was in the air with a Sand Martin on 22nd and the following day 120 Meadow Pipits became the highest count for the reservoir. The same day a new species for the Brent: a male Goshawk was seen well, a great pity it didn't stay longer. A Blackcap was singing on 27th. On 28th the first of several Little Ringed Plovers appeared. |
| APRIL It was in April that both the weather and the birds really warmed up. On 1st a Wheatear, on 5th a Swallow and two Common Terns, on 6th Willow Warbler, 9th Yellow Wagtail, 11th House Martin and also seven Ruff seen in flight. On 12th 50 Sand Martins and a fine Osprey, followed by a Hobby on 15th. A Greenshank on 18th was the first of several then on 20th Reed Warblers back in song. The first Swift was on 22nd, an average date. The Spring Birdcount on 26th with 80 species seen was the highest day total ever in the history of this popular and enjoyable event. It started with an early morning Wood Sandpiper, Grasshopper Warbler reeling by the hide and two flocks of Arctic Terns. Other good birds during the day were a Pied Flycatcher found near the dump, Ring Ouzel, Tree Pipit, and a Tree Sparrow. The next day three Curlew flew over. The month ended with another bird rare at the Brent: two Sandwich Terns on 29th. |
| MAY A Whimbrel on 1st and two Cuckoos on 2nd, two Black Terns, a Black Redstart and two Whinchats on 3rd. An adult Kittiwake was a surprise on 6th. A Marsh Harrier found on 11th plus Ringed Plover. All this led up to the great headlines: 13th May, Brent Reservoir, Great White Egret: 1st for London Area , the highlight of the year. May continued with eight Common Sandpipers on 15th, a Peregrine on 17th that over-summered and then on 18th an Arctic Tern. This tremendous month ended with Turtle Dove on 30th. |
| JUNE It is good to have Common Terns breeding on the rafts and at least 20 chicks on 1st proved that they are having some success. One adult tern decided it would be fun to regularly dive on the heads of passers by. As usual the month saw large post-breeding flocks of 300 plus Swifts. 197 Canada Geese including young were counted on 24th. A few Lapwings, Redshank on 22nd then on 28th a very surprising record: 2 adult drake Scaup. |
| JULY A chance mid-week visit on 8th produced an adult Spoonbill flying overhead; it flew on, into the mist, towards the hills of Hampstead and was never seen again. This raises the question: what birds come through when nobody is there? Also on 8th, two Redshank feeding on the mud on which the Spoonbill failed to land. Then more waders: 12th Greenshank and Green Sandpiper, 13th Whimbrel and on 19th Common Sandpiper peak of 21. Crossbills are understandably rare at the reservoir but this year there were four records, all within 8 days. On 20th a Buzzard was heard calling over North Bank, then two Redshank appeared on 21st. |
| AUGUST As usual several good birds appeared in August starting with two Black-necked Grebes on 5th. There were two Dunlin on 9th, three Greenshank on 12th, a Black Tern on 13th and Turnstone on 17th. Another surprise: an autumn Osprey on 23rd to add to the spring one already seen. The Autumn Birdcount on 30th was good if not so exciting with 69 species amassed. A Little Ringed Plover, three Greenshank and six Common Sandpipers were all the waders that could be found. Black Redstart, Tree Pipit, Yellow Wagtail were among the migrants. |
| SEPTEMBER Autumn continued with Redstart on 2nd and 6th, then waders took over with Ringed Plover on 9th, Whimbrel heard on 12th and on 13th two Black-tailed Godwits. With exposed mud waders will stay and it was a great pleasure to watch the godwits feeding in a pool close to the small hide. They stayed for a month, a great asset to four weekends watching. |
| OCTOBER An Arctic Tern on 9th stayed for four days, quite a late record. On 10th a Rock Pipit, and on 11th the last Yellow Wagtail . The weekend of 11th/12th saw visible migration on a huge scale: including 3,600 Redwings, 41 Siskins, 16 Bramblings and 80 Meadow Pipits with supporting cast of commoner birds. The last House Martins of the year were 35 on 12th. 19th saw a Goldeneye and on 22nd three Bewick's Swans came in and stayed all day. |
| NOVEMBER With Rock Pipit on 1st and 6th this month got off to a good start. A Brambling on 2nd along with the reappearance of Penduline Tit for the second year running, this time three of them. A Firecrest was found on 9th and on 15th the year's only Corn Bunting. Two Long-eared Owls were found roosting on 29th. On 30th a Kittiwake was seen, plus a flock of 20 Golden Plover, 143 Lapwings and the Mute Swan numbers had built up to 49, an all-time record. |
| DECEMBER Wintering Chiffchaff, Goldcrests and Siskins were seen, and the Long-eared Owls were last seen on the morning of 6th. Whooper Swans are rare at Brent and three on 12th was a fine record. After a Brambling on 13th the next good day was 19th when both Red-necked and Slavonian Grebes were found along with Goldeneye and Scaup. The Scaup stayed for two days, being replaced by another one from 21st until 28th. On 20th two Oystercatchers were seen in flight. This amazing year ended as it started, with another flock of wild swans, this time five more Whooper Swans, which put in an all too brief appearance on 29th. Return to Contents |
| BIRDS OF BRENT RESERVOIR 1996 AND 1997 |
| 1. LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis A resident breeder 1996 At least 15 were seen on Feb 9th with 14 on Oct 20th and 22 on Dec 1st. Three pairs were seen in the breeding season and one actually nested in the cavity underneath one of the large rafts. 1997 Four pairs were seen on June 22nd and two broods were noted this year. The highest count was 16 on Sept 21st. 2. GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus A resident breeder, fewer in winter 1996 There were 17 nests counted in East Marsh on the morning of May 7th but this dropped to 11 by the evening after a large amount of water was taken out. Seven broods in both marshes were eventually seen with the last two hatching on Sept 21st. The highest count was 72 on Apr 14th. 1997 Up to 16 pairs nested but fluctuating water levels meant that nests were built, abandoned and rebuilt several times this year. About 13 broods were actually raised with most of them appearing on the main reservoir in August. On Sept 21st, 20 juveniles were counted. 3. RED-NECKED GREBE Podiceps grisegena 1997 One on Dec 19th (JPC), the 14th record for Brent Reservoir. 4. SLAVONIAN GREBE Podiceps auritus A scarce visitor 1996 Recorded for the second year in a row, one was seen between Jan 29th and Feb 4th (CL) and possibly the same bird again on Feb 10th (RB). This was part of a record influx into London. 1997 One on Dec 19th (JPC), the same day as the Red-necked Grebe. 5. BLACK-NECKED GREBE Podiceps nigricollis A scarce visitor 1996 A superb pair of summer plumaged birds spent the day at the reservoir on Apr 29th (AGV). They were even seen displaying in the evening. 1997 Two were seen at 21.00 on Aug 5th (WS). This is the third year in a row for this species at Brent. 6. CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo A non-breeding resident 1996 Present throughout the year with a maximum of 31 on Apr 30th. White-headed birds were noted again in February with two on the 17th and eight on the 20th. 1997 Continental birds were seen on several dates between Jan 26th and Mar 24th. The highest count of the year was made on Aug 23rd when there were 20 birds present 7. SHAG Phalacrocorax aristotelis A scarce visitor 1996 One flew over with two Cormorants heading E on Nov 2nd at 09.55 (LAB/ASMS). 1997 Two flew SE with a continental Cormorant at 12.30 on Jan 26th (JPC). 8. BITTERN Botaurus stellaris A scarce visitor, occasionally over-winters 1996 The final addition to the year list when one was found on Dec 31st (ASMS). It was flushed from the stream in East Marsh and landed out of sight. Fortunately it decided to stay for the winter. 1997 The same bird was seen in East Marsh on 10 dates between Jan 1st and Feb 15th. It was seen in the creek in the reed bed, along the river and on the ground near the tramp's tent ! 9. NIGHT HERON Nycticorax nycticorax A rare vagrant 1996 One was seen flying towards the reservoir over Cool Oak Lane at midday on Apr 5th (LAB/RB). It was about 30 metres high and was only seen for a very short time before it disappeared out of view. It was thought to be a first summer bird. This record is still under consideration by BBRC. 10. LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta A rare vagrant 1997 One was reported flying over the southern end of the M1 towards the reservoir on Mar 29th. Unfortunately no description was received so the record cannot be accepted.] 11. GREAT WHITE EGRET Egretta alba A rare vagrant 1997 One flew out of the reed bed and then around the reservoir at 16.30 on May 13th. It was not seen again until 18.05 when it flew off E over East Marsh (JPC/ASMS/MW). This is the first record for Brent and also for London. A full account appears on page 51. Accepted by the British Birds Rarities Committee. 12. GREY HERON Ardea cinerea A non-breeding resident 1996 Monthly maxima varied from four in March to 24+ on Dec 17th. 1997 A new record count of 28 was made on Aug 10th (JC). 13. SPOONBILL Platalea leucorodia A rare vagrant 1997 Yet another white heron this year ! One was seen flying over the reservoir at 10.00 on July 8th (AGV). This is the third record at Brent, the last was on May 25th 1993. 14. MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor A breeding resident with an additional non-breeding flock 1996 The resident pair again bred and raised two young which hatched on May 25th. The highest counts were 35 on Nov 2nd and 36 on Dec 17th. 1997 The usual pair had one cygnet but it did not survive. A new record count of 49 was made on Nov 30th (JPC/AGV/ASMS). 15. BEWICK'S SWAN Cygnus columbianus A rare winter visitor 1996 Two records this year, the first ones since 1966. Five (three adults and two juvs) were seen early morning on Dec 6th (ASMS). They arrived after a foggy night. Two adults flew around a couple of times on Dec 31st (JPC) and appeared to leave, however they must have returned to roost. 1997 The two adults from 1996 were seen flying off at dawn on New Year's Day (ASMS). Three spent all day in East Marsh on Oct 22nd (BP). 16. WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus A rare winter visitor 1997 Three adults flew in at 09.45 and were still present in the afternoon on Dec 12th (JJ). Five adults spent an hour at Brent on Dec 29th (LAB). The first records since two on Nov 4th 1990. 17. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser albifrons A rare visitor 1996 Two (an adult and a juvenile) flew over East Marsh at 07.25 on Apr 1st (ASMS). They were later seen flying over Hampstead Heath. The fifth record for Brent and the first since January 1969. 18. GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser An irregular visitor 1996 An increase in records this year with 12 compared to five for the previous two years. One was seen on Jan 2nd, then 1-3 on seven dates in March and April. There were five on Apr 27th, four on May 5th, three on June 2nd and finally two on Dec 8th. 1997 This year there were 11 records of 1-5 birds between Feb 1st and May 9th with five on Apr 24th. 19. CANADA GOOSE Branta canadiensis A breeding resident 1996 The highest counts were 180 on Feb 8th, 120 adults + 34 juvs on June 15th and 190 adults + 20 juvs on June 23. Six broods were noted between Apr 26th and May 11th. 1997 Only eight juveniles were seen this year, possibly due to the low water levels preventing them nesting in North Marsh. The maximum count was 197 on June 24th. 20. SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna An irregular visitor 1996 Nine records, the most ever in one year. There were singles on Jan 26th and 28th, and again on Mar 12th, then pairs on Mar 30th, Apr 25th, May 6th and 25th. A juvenile was seen between Sept 5th and 8th and the last one was on Dec 22nd. 1997 Another increase led to 14 records this year. There was one on Jan 4th, then most appeared in spring between Mar 15th and May 17th when five were seen on the latter date. There were two on July 20th, three singles in September and one after a snow storm on Dec 17th. 21. WIGEON Anas penelope A regular autumn and occasional winter visitor 1996 One on Feb 1st was the only record until autumn when one was seen on Sept 7th and 8th, then 12 flew in on the 14th. Another was seen on Sept 19th with two the following day, rising to 15 on the 21st with five on the 22nd. The next records were in Nov when there were two on the 3rd, 16 on the 15th and three on the 28th. There were 10 records in Dec of 1-2 birds which mainly relate to two drakes that stayed around. 1997 Apart from three on Jan 1st and Mar 10th, all the records were from September to December. There were 13 records of 2-13 birds in September; nine records of 1-10 birds in October; two records of two birds in November and three records of 1-2 birds in December. 22. GADWALL Anas strepera A resident bird, has recently bred 1996 After several years of summering, Gadwall finally bred for the first time at the reservoir. A female with two ducklings was seen on July 6th in East Marsh and another female with four ducklings was seen in North Marsh on July 27th. The year's highest count was 94 on Oct 19th. 1997 There were no breeding records this year although there were plenty of birds present in summer with 27 on June 20th. The maximum count was 111 on November 16th. 23. TEAL Anas crecca Mainly an autumn and winter visitor, with one breeding record 1996 There were 37 on Jan 21st, they gradually declined in number until the last were seen on May 1st. None were seen during the breeding season. Seven were counted on July 21st and they gradually increased throughout autumn and early winter, peaking at 66 on Dec 22nd. 1997 There were 65 on Feb 15th with the last one on Apr 27th. The first bird of autumn returned on July 1st. The highest count was 87 on Nov 16th. 24. MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos A resident breeder 1996 Twelve broods were seen between Apr 29th and July 7th, including one of 13 and one of 14 ducklings. The highest count was 123 adults plus 12 young on July 7th. 1997 Only six broods were noted this year, probably due to the low water level. The peak count was 122 on Aug 10th. 25. PINTAIL Anas acuta An occasional visitor 1996 Three records this year, the first ones since 1992. Two males were seen on Jan 3rd (JPC). One male and two females were seen on Mar 2nd (ASMS). Three males and two females flew over heading NE on Dec 20th at 14.15 (JPC). 26. GARGANEY Anas querquedula An occasional passage migrant 1996 An over-wintering immature female from 1995 just stayed into 1996 when it made its only appearance on Jan 6th (JPC). 27. BLUE-WINGED TEAL Anas discors A rare vagrant 1996 A female first found on Dec 9th 1995 stayed until January 30th. It preferred to hide in the back pools of the North Marsh but when these froze over it could be seen with a group of Shoveler at the edge of the main reservoir. It was a very popular bird and attracted many visiting birders although it could be very elusive at times. Accepted by the British Birds Rarities Committee. 28. SHOVELER Anas clypeata Absent in summer months, used to breed until fairly recently 1996 The early part of the year saw very small numbers of Shoveler with a high of just 12 on Jan 21st. The last one was seen on Apr 6th and then none until one on June 5th. Numbers gradually increased during autumn peaking at 109 on Sept 28th. After a count of 102 on Oct 20th, numbers then dropped to 59 on Dec 15th. 1997 A similar picture to the previous year with a peak of just 11 in the first part of the year. One on May 26th was the only one between Apr 6th and June 18th. The peak count was 93 on Sept 21st. 29. POCHARD Aythya ferina A regular visitor in varying numbers, formerly bred 1996 A much declined species in recent years, although a count of 75 on Dec 29th was the highest since 1992. For the rest of the year numbers did not exceed 33. Counts in December started with 34 on the 20th and then increased daily as the weather got colder. 1997 This duck has lost its "resident" status and with just three records between April and June seems unlikely to breed again. The peak count was again in December when 112 were seen on the 19th. 30. TUFTED DUCK Aythya fuligula A breeding resident with a larger wintering population 1996 Four broods were seen (3,8,3,3) between July 14th and Sept 21st. The highest count was 215 on Nov 17th, well down on previous years. 1997 Three broods were seen this year, all in August. The peak count was 242 on December 26th. 31. SCAUP Aythya marila An occasional visitor 1996 A flock of six (one male and five females) was seen on Jan 2nd (JPC). This is the largest group of Scaup ever recorded at the reservoir. Two of these females stayed until Jan 6th. Additional females were seen from Jan 27th to Feb 8th (JPC) and from Mar 9th to 15th (ASMS). 1997 Two males were seen on the unusual date of June 28th (ASMS), and different immatures were seen from Dec 19th to 20th (JPC) and from 21st into 1998 (SEB/JPC). 32. GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula An occasional visitor 1996 Another good year for this species with 13 records. Most occurred in January with 1-3 birds seen on eight dates. There were also four records of 1-3 birds in February and finally two on Nov 27th. All were of females apart from an immature male on Feb 4th. 1997 Six females flew over on Jan 2nd, one female was seen on Oct 19th and a male on Dec 19th. 33. SMEW Mergus albellus An occasional winter visitor 1996 The best year for this winter duck since 1987. The first was on Jan 29th, with probably the same on Feb 1st, followed by singles from 9th to 13th, 17th to 23rd, 26th and from Mar 3rd to 10th. Cold weather in December brought an influx into London. One was seen on Dec 21st, three on 27th, two on 28th, one on 29th, four on 30th and six on 31st. All records were of females. 1997 Another good year with 1-2 redheads present on most dates between Jan 1st and Feb 27th. 34. RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Merganser serrator A scarce visitor 1996 One female flew in on Mar 31st at 08.45 then flew off W (RB/ASMS). This is the second year in a row that this scarce sea duck has been recorded at the reservoir. 35. GOOSANDER Mergus merganser An occasional winter visitor 1996 There were 14 records this year, the largest number of records for many years. Two were seen on Jan 27th and one on the 30th. In February there were five on the 3rd, one on the 5th, one on the 10th, four on the 11th, two on the 17th and one on the 21st. December records were of singles on the 8th and 21st, three on the 23rd, one on the 27th and 29th and three on the 30th. 1997 One flew over on Jan 1st, two males flew over Jan 3rd, five flew over on Jan 4th, nine flew over on Jan 12th including a flock of seven. Singles were seen on Feb 1st and 2nd and the next one was on June 10th (DW) - a very unusual date. There was also one on Dec 23rd. 36. RUDDY DUCK Oxyura jamaicensis A breeding bird, mainly absent in winter 1996 The first of the year appeared on Jan 14th. Numbers gradually increased as winter came to an end. A new record count of 46 was made on May 6th (CG). The first brood was seen just days after this on May 8th. Two more broods were seen in September and one in October. The last one of the year was on Dec 25th. 1997 Six broods were noted this year, between Aug 2nd and Oct 4th. The peak count was much lower this year with just 16 counted on Apr 27th. 37. RED KITE Milvus milvus A rare visitor 1996 One was seen flying over the observer's garden, just to the N of the reservoir on an unspecified date in August (per RB). This is only the third record for Brent, but amazingly the second consecutive year one has been seen. 38. MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginous A rare but increasing visitor 1997 A male flew N at 12.40 on May 11th (WS), the fourth record at Brent and the third in the 1990s. 39. HEN HARRIER Circus cyaneus A rare visitor 1996 A 'ringtail' was seen flying SW at a height of c150 metres on Dec 22nd at 15.00 (ASMS). This represents only the second Brent record, the first was way back in 1869! 40. GOSHAWK Accipter gentilis 1997 One seen flying over North Marsh at 07.00 on Mar 23rd (JPC) was the first record for Brent Reservoir. A full account and description appears on page 50. 41. SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus A breeding resident 1996 Regularly recorded around the reservoir during the year; three pairs bred. 1997 Three pairs were again on territory this year. 42. COMMON BUZZARD Buteo buteo An occasional visitor 1996 One was observed flying over the Oak Wood and then it flew W over North Bank at 12.30 on July 16th (JPC). This is the first record in July of this now annual raptor at Brent. 1997 One was heard calling several times over the North Bank at 13.00 on July 20th (RB). 43. OSPREY Pandion haliaetus A rare but increasing visitor 1996 One flew over the hide on May 5th at 06.15, circled over the reservoir and then headed E (JPC). 1997 At least two records this year, the first time it has been seen more than once in a year. One flew low over the reservoir and hovered once at 09.00 on Apr 12th (RB/JPC/AGV). One flew high SW over the dam at 07.20 on Aug 23rd (ASMS). A large raptor that was seen hovering over North Marsh on Apr 11th by one of the sailors may also have been an Osprey. 44. KESTREL Falco tinnunculus A breeding resident 1996 One or two pairs probably bred but there were very few sightings recorded. One was observed catching two Short-tailed Voles in quick succession on Aug 24th. 1997 Two pairs nested this year, one had young in the nest on May 5th. One Kestrel which was seen catching and eating large insects in mid-air on July 19th must have thought it was a Hobby ! 45. MERLIN Falco columbarius A rare visitor 1997 One flew low over rooftops over Harp Island Close heading towards the reservoir at 07.50 on Jan 5th (ASMS). The first record at Brent since 1961. 46. HOBBY Falco subbuteo A passage migrant and summer visitor 1996 One of the poorest showings for several years with just six records. Singles were noted on Apr 27th, May 11th and 19th, Aug 25th and 31st and Sept 7th. The one on May 19th caught a Swift. 1997 A better year with 13 records. The first was on Apr 15th, followed by one on Apr 22nd. There were six sightings in May, and one in both June and July. The last ones were on Aug 26th and Sept 6th. 47. PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus An occasional visitor 1997 An adult male spent part of the summer at Brent. It was seen on: May 17th, 20th, 24th, 28th, 30th, June 15th, 20th, 22nd, 24th, July 1st and 19th (JPC et al). It was often seen heading towards Wembley. A male hunting over the South Bank on Oct 21st (ASMS) may have been the same bird as there was one over Ikea the previous week. It was seen chasing pigeons on several occasions and was disturbed from eating a racing pigeon on the North Bank. 48. WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus A regular winter visitor 1996 The year began with five on Jan 1st, three were seen on Feb 4th and singles on Mar 17th and 23rd. The first returning autumn birds were two on Aug 31st and then 1-2 birds were seen every month until the end of the year with three noted on Nov 16th. 1997 Several were seen in January with a maximum of three on the 12th. None were seen in February but there was one on March 16th. In autumn, the first returnee was seen on Sept 7th. There were two sightings in October, two birds on Nov 16th and several records of 1-2 birds in December. 49. MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus A common breeding resident 1996 Numbers of this regular waterside bird continue to increase slowly as last year's record count of 51 was beaten three times, peaking on Dec 15th at 56. The only breeding record was a brood of three on July 8th but there must have been many more that went unrecorded. 1997 A new record count of 70 was made on Nov 16th. One nest in East Marsh fell prey to a fox which took advantage of the low water level by wading out and stealing the eggs. 50. COOT Fulica atra A common breeding resident with an influx in autumn 1996 Like the previous species, Coot numbers also reached a new high this year when a massive 730 were counted on Oct 26th. This was after a good breeding season in which several chicks were observed being eaten by Herring, Yellow-legged and Lesser Black-backed Gulls. 1997 Another high count of c700 was made on Oct 19th. Gulls were again seen catching Coot chicks. 51. OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus A scarce visitor 1996 One spent all day in East Marsh on May 4th (AGV). This is the first one at Brent since 1988. 1997 Two flew across the rafts towards North Marsh at 14.47 on Dec 20th (MD). 52. LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius A regular passage migrant, has previously bred 1996 A typical year with six records, all of single birds. The first was on Apr 2nd, followed by others on 21st and 27th, May 25th, June 16th and July 28th. 1997 A massive 12 records this year. An early one was seen on Mar 28th, followed by singles on Apr 11th and 20th and two birds on the 26th and 28th. In May, singles were seen on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 10th and 31st. There were two on July 21st and one on Aug 30th. 53. RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula A scarce visitor 1996 Two records this year, the first since 1993. One flew over calling on Mar 30th at 09.40 (ASMS) and one was on a raft on Aug 3rd (LAB). 1997 One was on the iced over reservoir before flying N on Jan 5th (ASMS). There was one in North Marsh on May 11th (AGV) and one flew over on Sept 9th (LAB/RB/RJW). 54. GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria A scarce visitor 1996 A flock of 14 flew SE on Dec 28th over the dump at 09.30 (JPC). This record coincided with particularly hard and freezing weather conditions. 1997 A flock of 20 flew over high heading NW at 11.30 on Nov 30th (JPC/AGV/ASMS). 55. GREY PLOVER Pluvialis squatarola A scarce visitor 1997 One was heard calling over the main reservoir on Jan 3rd (RB/JPC/ASMS). 56. LAPWING Vanellus vanellus A regular visitor 1996 Recorded on an incredible 92 days this year, the most records ever in a year. They were seen in every month although it is possible that just one bird accounted for most of the records between June and August. The only high count of the year was made on Jan 25th when 105 flew SW. 1997 A return to more normal levels with 33 records this year. A pair were seen displaying over North Marsh on Apr 28th but did not stay. The peak count was on Nov 30th when 143 flew over. 57. LITTLE STINT Calidris minuta A rare migrant 1996 The wader highlight of the year was the first Little Stints at Brent for over 40 years. Two were found in East Marsh on Sept 15th with one remaining until the 17th (LAB/WS). Another was found in North Marsh on Sept 21st and stayed until 24th (RB). These records were part of a major influx. 58. DUNLIN Calidris alpina An irregular visitor 1996 Eight records, the best since the reservoir was drained in 1984. The first was on Jan 28th (ASMS), followed by two on Mar 4th (WG), one on the 11th (WG) and one on July 10th (WS). Four were seen on Sept 21st (JPC), then singles on Sept 26th (BTCV), Oct 2nd (LAB) and Dec 27th (ASMS). 1997 Despite the low water levels providing a lot of mud there were only five records this year. The first ones were two on Jan 2nd and 3rd (JPC), followed by singles on Mar 9th (JPC) and 24th (JPC). There was also one on Apr 15th (LAB) and two on Aug 9th (AGV). 59. RUFF Philomachus pugnax A scarce migrant 1997 Seven flew N at 12.15 low over the rafts on Apr 11th (RJW), the first ones for six years. 60. JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus A scarce winter visitor 1996 One was flushed from the shingle alongside the North Bank on Dec 24th (JPC). 1997 One was flushed from the South Bank on Mar 15th (JPC). 61. SNIPE Gallinago gallinago A regular winter visitor 1996 Numbers were considerably down this year although there was more mud around at the end of the year. The highest count was just 12 on Feb 24th. Birds were noted from Jan 1st to Apr 20th, then again from Aug14th to the end of the year. 1997 There were even fewer birds this year with a maximum of only seven on Jan 5th. Records were between Jan 5th and May 1st and again from Oct 4th to the end of the year. 62. WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola A scarce winter visitor 1996 Four records represents the best showing for many years. The first was flushed near to the dump on Mar 17th, followed by one in North Marsh on Nov 25th, one flushed from the dump on Dec 7th (LAB) and one in East Marsh on Dec 30th (JPC). 1997 Probably the best year for this species this century. Two birds were seen in East Marsh in front of the factories on five dates between Jan 2nd and Feb 1st. One in the Oakwood on Jan 12th and one seen flying across the reservoir on Feb 18th probably relate to the same birds. 63. BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa limosa A scarce passage migrant 1997 The wader highlight of the autumn was two juvenile birds which stayed at the reservoir for a month from Sept 13th to Oct 12th (ASMS). All previous records of this wader at Brent have been either flying over or have been present on one day only. This amazing record shows that there is plenty of food to sustain two large waders. 64. WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus A scarce passage migrant 1996 One was seen on May 10th at 20.15 (WS), this is the first one at Brent for six years. 1997 One landed briefly on a raft at 09.45 before flying N on May 1st (ASMS). One flew off from the mud on July 13th (AGV) and one was heard flying over at 19.50 on Sept 12th (JPC). Three records in one year is unprecedented, no other year has more than one record. 65. CURLEW Numenius arquata A scarce passage migrant 1996 Three records in one year is the most since 1961. One flew N just before dusk on Jan 3rd (LAB), two were on the wader bank on Mar 2nd before flying E at 08.40 (ASMS) and one was seen on Dec 31st (JPC). 1997 Another three records this year. One on Jan 1st (ASMS) was the same as the last one in 1996. Four flew over at 12.15 on Mar 8th (JPC) and three flew over the dam at 06.30 on Apr 27th (DJL). 66. REDSHANK Tringa totanus An occasional visitor 1996 Five records in one year is the most since 1959, the average for recent years has been just two records. One was seen on Mar 27th, two on June 5th, one on June 20th, one on Aug 15th, then one on Dec 27th stayed into 1997. 1997 On January 1st, four flew NW at 09.25 and another two were seen which over-wintered, staying until Mar 9th. One was seen on June 8th and three or four on the 22nd. In July, there was one on the 2nd, two on the 8th, one on the 19th and two on the 21st. 67. GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia A regular passage migrant 1996 The only record this year was of one heard calling on Apr 26th (RB). 1997 A good year for this wader with 10 birds seen. The only spring record was on Apr 18th and 19th. In July, there was one from 12th to 14th; in August, three flew in on the 12th and one stayed from the 29th to Sept 1st. Another three flew E on Aug 30th and there was one from Sept 4th to 7th. 68. GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus An occasional visitor 1996 Four records this year, the most since 1984 although it is not recorded every year. One was seen on May 8th (ASMS), the first May record for over 30 years. The next ones were at more typical times of the year: singles on July 16th (WS) and 18th, then on Aug 14th and 15th (EW). 1997 An excellent year with 11 birds recorded. One was present from Feb 6th to Mar 16th with two birds on Mar 2nd. Singles were seen on Apr 1st and 22nd and May 15th. In autumn, there was one on July 12th and 13th, two on the 15th, one on the 21st and singles on Sept 1st and 25th. 69. WOOD SANDPIPER Tringa glareola A scarce passage migrant 1997 The highlight of the Spring Birdcount. One flew N over East Marsh calling at 06.40 on Apr 26th (JPC/DM/ASMS). This is the first one at Brent since 1966. 70. COMMON SANDPIPER Actitus hypoleucos A common passage migrant 1996 The first of the year was on Apr 3rd, followed by five other records that month. In May there were 15 records and then none until one on June 29th. July had 16 records, August 23, September 24 and the last one was on Oct 1st. The highest count was eight on Aug 12th. 1997 Recorded between Apr 26th and Oct 20th. There were three records of single birds in April; 14 records of 1-8 birds in May peaking on the 15th; four records of 1-3 birds in June; six records of 1-21 birds in July peaking on the 19th (JPC); 21 records of 1-6 birds in August; 18 records of 1-5 birds in September and three singles on Oct 2nd, 17th and 30th. 71. TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres A scarce visitor 1997 One flew over Cool Oak Lane at 10.40 on Aug 17th (ASMS). 72. LITTLE GULL Larus minutus A scarce visitor 1996 An adult and a 1st winter flew down the reservoir from the dam on Dec 20th at 14.15 (JPC). Most records at Brent are in the autumn and there is just one other December record. 73. BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus A common non-breeder 1996 A count of c600 was made on Jan 17th. A major passage of gulls took place on March 23rd when 1,000+ were seen, many of which just flew straight over heading E. There were also 263 on July 18th and 937 on Nov 22nd. 1997 Recorded in every month of the year. Counts of over 500 were made in January, February and from August to November with a peak of 1137 on Aug 18th. 74. RING-BILLED GULL Larus delawarensis A rare vagrant 1996 The first record for the reservoir was of a 1st summer bird on Mar 23rd (LAB/ASMS). It was seen in the North Marsh at 10.15 for about five minutes before flying off E to join the large gull passage that was taking place that day. An account of this record appears on page 48. Another record of a 2nd winter bird on Nov 17th was not accepted by the LNHS and remains unproven. 75. COMMON GULL Larus canus A common, mainly winter visitor 1996 Counts of c150 were made on Jan 14th and 262 on Mar 24th. Apart from June, birds were recorded in every other month. 1997 There were 250 on Mar 9th and 350+ on Dec 31st, a record count for the reservoir (RB). 76. LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus A common non-breeding visitor 1996 Recorded in every month of the year. The highest count was on May 27th when 40 were seen flying N. Scandinavian birds of the race fuscus were noted on Aug 29th and Sept 23rd (SEB). 1997 High counts included 31 on Mar 15th and 51 roosting on Sept 27th. One fuscus bird was seen on Dec 21st (SEB). One was watched snatching a tern chick from the rafts on June 21st. 77. HERRING GULL Larus argentatus A regular non-breeding visitor 1996 An impressive movement took place on Dec 25th when a total of 75 flew E in many small flocks. Birds were observed taking and swallowing whole Coot chicks on June 22nd and 29th. 1997 1st winter birds of the argentatus race were noted on Jan 5th and Dec 28th (JPC). 17 were seen flying W on May 18th. Coot chicks provided tasty snacks again this year for this species. 78. YELLOW-LEGGED GULL Larus cachinnans An increasing occasional visitor 1996 Birds were recorded on 29 dates throughout the year with many relating to a regular adult which paired with a Herring Gull and visited Brent often. This pair were observed making a nest scrape on one of the rafts on Apr 28th but they did not stay to breed. Two adults were seen on Feb 4th, 20th and Mar 1st, a 2nd summer was seen on Apr 6th and June 23rd, while on July 14th there was a 1st summer, a 2nd summer and a sub-adult. A 1st winter was noted on Nov 17th, two adults on Nov 27th, Dec 8th, 15th, 20th and 26th when a 3rd winter was also present. There was a 1st winter on Dec 21st and three birds on Dec 30th. Individuals were noted eating a Coot chick on July 6th and a duckling species on July 9th. 1997 Recorded on 33 dates this year, most of which were the semi-resident adult. Different birds were seen on Jan 5th (2nd adult); Jan 18th (3rd winter); Feb 2nd (1st winter); May 20th (3rd summer); Sept 19th (1st winter); Oct 17th (2nd winter) and Dec 20th (3rd winter). 79. GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus An irregular visitor 1996 There were 20 records this year, far more than in previous years. Most were noted in the winter months apart from four on Aug 30th, and singles on Sept 22nd, Oct 21st, Nov 2nd and 5th. 1997 Another 20 records this year. Most were singles but there were three on June 10th, four on Jan 2nd and 12th and six on Jan 5th. 80. KITTIWAKE Rissa tridactyla A scarce visitor 1997 Two adults were seen this year, one at 08.57 on May 6th and one at 10.05 on Nov 30th (AGV). 81. SANDWICH TERN Sterna sandvicensis A rare migrant 1997 Two flew around the dam end at 16.35 on Apr 29th before flying off N (JPC). 82. COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo A breeding summer migrant 1996 Birds were seen between Apr 11th and Aug 26th. A new record of 17 pairs nested, most of which successfully reared young. 1997 Recorded between Apr 4th and Sept 20th. Another rise in breeding pairs this year to 21. The first hatchlings were seen on June 1st. 83. ARCTIC TERN Sterna paradisaea A scarce migrant 1996 The only record for the year was of one which flew E at 10.40 on Apr 13th (ASMS). 1997 A major movement took place on the rainy morning of the Spring Birdcount on Apr 26th. Ten were seen flying around the reservoir and on the rafts before flying off N at 08.15 (JPC/DM/ASMS) and a flock of 16 flew in at 08.42 (JPC). One flew off N at 08.15 on May 18th (JPC) and a very late adult stayed from Oct 9th to 12th (RB). 84. BLACK TERN Chlidonias niger A scarce migrant 1996 There were three adults on Apr 23rd at 07.30 (ASMS), which had gone by mid-morning. 1997 Two adults flew in at 09.55 on May 3rd (JPC) and a juvenile was seen on Aug 13th (ASMS). 85. WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN Chlidonis leucopterus A rare vagrant 1996 An adult in summer plumage was seen on July 7th from 07.30 to 17.00 (ASMS). There was an influx into the country of these birds in the summer. This is the second record for Brent, the last one was in 1881. It was successfully twitched by over 50 people. See account on page 48. 86. FERAL ROCK DOVE Columba livia A breeding resident 1996 As is fairly typical, this species was never mentioned once in the log book yet it is known that the regular flock of 100-150 birds was resident throughout on the South Bank. 1997 Although ever present they were only looked at when the Peregrine put them up ! 87. STOCK DOVE Columba oenas An occasional visitor 1996 Ten records in the year, the same as in 1995. All were of 1-2 birds, most of which just flew over although a pair was noted on West Hendon Playing Fields on June 2nd. 1997 14 records this year, all between Mar 22nd and Sept 20th. One was heard singing on Mar 25th and June 24th and a juvenile was seen on June 22nd so they may have bred in the area. 88. WOODPIGEON Columba palumbus A breeding resident 1996 The only high count of the year was of 863 which flew SW in the early morning of Oct 24th. An albino bird was noted on Oct 2nd, Nov 16th, Dec 1st and 28th. 1997 Despite its obvious appearance the albino was only seen on seven days between Mar 22nd and Dec 27th. Counts of 100 flying S on Nov 30th and 250+ on Dec 1st were comparatively low. 89. COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto A breeding summer visitor 1996 In April and May, one or two birds were regularly seen in either Braemar Avenue or Birchen Grove. An adult and a juvenile on June 2nd on West Hendon Playing Fields may relate to these birds. There was also one on July 11th, two on Aug 30th and one on Nov 3rd. 1997 Present from Mar 22nd to Sept 18th with a maximum of three on Sept 7th. Birds were regularly seen in Birchen Grove and also East Marsh/South Bank. Two flew N on Apr 19th. 90. TURTLE DOVE Streptopelia turtur A scarce passage migrant 1996 The first one of the year was on Apr 23rd (AGV). Birds seen on June 10th, 23rd and July 14th (JPC/CG/ASMS) when one was heard calling may relate to an over-summering individual. 1997 Only one record this year: one was near the dump on May 30th (MW). 91. RING-NECKED PARAKEET Psittacula krameri A scarce visitor 1996 Another typical year with just one record; one was seen by the dam on Sept 6th (ASMS). 1997 Continuing the pattern of sole records, one flew over East Marsh on Jan 12th (JPC). 92. CUCKOO Cuculus canorus A regular spring migrant 1996 Singles were noted on four dates in spring: Apr 27th, May 12th, 26th and June 29th. 1997 On May 2nd, one was heard calling on North Bank and one flew behind the hide. Another was noted on May 7th. 93. TAWNY OWL Strix aluco A breeding resident 1996 One was seen in the North Marsh on Jan 7th. There was one calling on Apr 2nd in Chilcott Nursery and one noted in North Marsh on May 27th. A long-dead bird was found by the rifle range on Aug 31st and one was heard calling at 03.00 behind the dam on Nov 8th. 1997 Eight records from five or six different locations this year points to a healthy population. Several were seen or heard calling during the day time, night visits would obviously produce more records. 94. LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus An occasional winter visitor 1996 Two birds from 1995 were seen at their daytime roost regularly between Jan 1st and Feb 4th, one of which remained until Mar 12th. An owl, either Long or Short-eared was seen at the end of the year (RB) but no roosting birds were found. 1997 Two birds were found roosting by the allotments on Nov 29th (JD). They remained in the same tree until Dec 6th then were not seen again despite extensive searching. 95. SWIFT Apus apus A common summer breeding migrant 1996 Present between Apr 21st and Aug 31st. High counts include c150 on May 18th, 250+ on June 10th, 400+ on June 23rd, 500+ on June 29th and 500 on July 16th. 1997 Present between Apr 22nd and Sept 15th. High counts were slightly down on last year although the spring passage was higher with three counts of over 200 birds in May. The peak day was June 14th when 300+ were seen. 96. KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis A breeding resident 1996 Present throughout the year. A pair was seen displaying in March and probably bred. 1997 One pair was present during the breeding season. Records are quite scarce in winter and it may be that they leave the reservoir at this time. 97. GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis A breeding resident 1996 Present throughout the year, one pair may have bred. 1997 One pair bred raising one juvenile in East Marsh and another pair probably bred by the Field Centre. There were also regular sightings from the dump area. 98. GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus major A breeding resident 1996 Although commoner than the previous species, this bird is rarely noted in the logbook. One was observed on a peanut feeder on Feb 4th and 5+ were seen in the Oakwood on June 16th. 1997 Six were seen on Jan 1st. One was watched drumming on a TV aerial on Mar 24th! Two nests were found in May but there were probably more than two pairs present. 99. LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor An occasional visitor 1996 Five records this year, none of which were in the breeding season. One was seen in Woodfield Park on Jan 28th and singles in East Marsh on Oct 26th, Dec 14th and 26th. There was also a pair seen by the school on Dec 22nd. 1997 Ten records, spread throughout the year. Encouragingly, several were noted in the breeding season: a male was seen drumming on North Bank on Mar 30th and a male in East Marsh on Apr 14th, May 10th and 14th, June 30th and Aug 30th. 100. SKYLARK Alauda arvensis A passage migrant, formerly bred 1996 Unlike previous years, there was a small passage noted in spring: two were seen on Mar 24th and singles on Apr 7th, 14th, 16th and two on the 21st. One on June 23rd was on a very unusual date. Autumn birds were seen on eight dates in October, including 24 on the 22nd as well as singles on Nov 27th and Dec 8th. 1997 Two or three birds fed on Woodfield Park from Jan 1st to 3rd. Several others were noted in January and February with a maximum of 11 on Jan 12th. There were four records of 1-4 birds in March indicating a light passage. Surprisingly one was heard singing near the dam on Apr 13th. There was a return passage in October with two on 11th, 17 on 18th, five on 22nd and one on 31st. One or two birds were then noted on four dates in November and December. 101. SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia A common passage migrant 1996 Recorded between Mar 24th and Sept 23rd. There was a much smaller passage this year with the highest count being a modest 20 on Apr 27th. 1997 Recorded between Mar 22nd and Sept 6th. There was an early passage in March with one on 22nd, two on 23rd, 10 on 28th and two on 31st. The highest number in spring was 50 on Apr 12th. Few were seen in autumn apart from a massive 150+ on Aug 31st. 102. SWALLOW Hirundo rustica A common passage migrant 1996 Recorded between Apr 8th and Oct 24th, much later than previous years. As with the previous species, numbers were much lower this year and the highest count was just 35+ on May 5th. 1997 Recorded between Apr 5th and Oct 26th. There were two counts of 30+ birds in spring and three in autumn. There was a late passage in October this year with 30 on 8th, 31 on 11th, 25 on 12th, five on 17th and singles on 20th, 22nd and 26th. 103. HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica A common summer visitor, may still breed nearby 1996 Recorded between Apr 15th and Oct 6th. Only three dates saw counts reach three figures: 100+ on June 29th, 250 on Aug 29th and c100 on Sept 21st. 1997 Recorded between Apr 11th and Oct 12th. There were five flocks of at least 100 birds, all in September: 100 on 1st, 100 on 6th, 100+ on 7th, 300 on 13th and 100 on 14th. No birds were recorded in the breeding season. 104. TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis A scarce passage migrant 1996 One timed its arrival for the Autumn Birdcount when it was seen on the dump on Aug 31st (ASMS). 1997 This year, Tree Pipit managed to appear on both Spring and Autumn Birdcounts, flying over East Marsh on Apr 26th (JPC) and over the bunds on Aug 30th (ASMS). 105. MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis A common passage migrant and occasional winter visitor 1996 The first two were seen on Jan 31st. A good spring passage included counts of 70 flying N on Mar 23rd, 28+ on Mar 28th and 40 on Apr 8th. An early autumn bird was seen on Aug 16th. Most flew over in September with 59 on the 22nd and 67 on the 27th, with a further 25 on Oct 25th. 1997 There were three records of 3-6 birds in January. On a good day for migration, a new record count of 120 flying N was made on Mar 23rd (JPC/ASMS). There was also 44 flying N on Mar 30th. One near the dam on June 20th was on an unusual date. Autumn migrants were noted from Sept 6th with only a few seen until 40 flying SE on Sept 21st, 29 on Oct 4th and 70 flying S on Oct 11th. 106. ROCK PIPIT Anthus petrosus A scarce late autumn/early winter migrant 1996 After three in 1995 which were the first ones since 1986, another five were seen this year. One flew SW at 08.00 on October 24th (ASMS), one landed in East Marsh on Nov 2nd at 09.30 (ASMS), one flew E on Nov 9th at 08.45 (ASMS), one flew SW over the dump on Dec 1st (JPC) and one flew low over the hide on Dec 27th at dusk (JPC). 1997 Another three records this year, the third consecutive year in which they have been seen. One flew low over East Marsh at 17.00 on Oct 10th (JPC), one flew low over East Marsh at 10.30 on Nov 1st (ASMS) and one was seen in East Marsh at 11.00 on Nov 6th (RB). 107. YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava A regular passage migrant 1996 A total of 52 birds were recorded between Apr 16th and Oct 5th. Most were seen in spring with 16 birds on six dates in April and 14 birds on five dates in May. Two were seen on July 14th with 10 on four dates in August including seven on the Autumn Birdcount on Aug 31st. A further nine were seen on four dates in September. 1997 There was a much heavier spring passage this year with 45 birds seen between Apr 9th and May 9th. Peak counts of seven were made on Apr 24th, 26th and 27th. However, there were far fewer birds in autumn with single birds recorded on just five dates between Aug 30th and Oct 11th. One bird on Apr 27th was a Blue-headed Wagtail (JPC), the first for many years. 108. GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea A breeding resident and autumn migrant 1996 A juvenile in East Marsh on July 20th probably bred at the reservoir. Two were seen on Sept 24th, three on the 25th, two on the 26th as well as three on Oct 6th and three on Dec 15th. 1997 One pair was present throughout the year. The only sign of passage was five flying S on Oct 11th. 109. PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla alba A breeding resident and autumn migrant 1996 A juvenile was seen on a raft on June 23rd. In autumn, five were seen on Oct 21st and three flew SW on Oct 24th. Two were seen on Dec 15th. 1997 Like its cousin the Yellow Wagtail, there was a heavy spring passage. Five flew N on Mar 9th and another five were seen on Mar 23rd. In April, three were seen on Apr 7th and five were on the dam wall on the 15th. A pair was seen collecting nest material on May 8th and the following day the male was singing constantly . These presumably bred as a juvenile was seen in East Marsh on June 28th. Autumn passage was exceptional with 13 flying S on Oct 11th and 15 on the 18th. White Wagtails were plentiful in spring: singles on Mar 25th and 29th; two on Apr 12th, 19th and 26th with singles on 22nd, 27th and 30th. Most were on the shingle shore of the North Bank. 110. WREN Troglodytes troglodytes A common breeding resident 1996 There were ten singing males in East Marsh on Mar 30th and two on the South Bank on Apr 1st. 1997 On Apr 29th, 17 singing males were counted in East Marsh and South Bank and 11 on the dump and in North Marsh. A further three were heard around the dam on May 1st. 111. DUNNOCK Prunella modularis A common breeding resident 1996 40 singing males were counted around the reservoir on Apr 7th/8th (excluding Field Centre and Churchyard). 1997 Common around the reservoir all year but no counts made. 112. ROBIN Erithacus rubecula A common breeding resident 1996 61 singing males were counted around the reservoir on Apr 7th/8th (excluding Field Centre and Churchyard). 1997 Juveniles were noted on Apr 30th, June 8th and 15th but they were obviously under-recorded. 113. BLACK REDSTART Phoenicurus ochruros A rare passage migrant 1997 Two birds were seen this year which is remarkable as it is a rare bird at Brent. A female was seen on the North Bank near the dam at 08.00 on May 3rd (JPC) and an immature/female in North Marsh on the Autumn Birdcount on Aug 30th (RM). 114. REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus A scarce passage migrant 1996 One female was seen on Apr 27th (RB). This continues the run of successive years since 1990. 1997 Two autumn records this year: a male by the school on Sept 2nd (ASMS) and a female by the dump on Sept 6th (RB). 115. WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra A regular passage migrant 1996 There were four records in spring, all of singles: on Apr 25th and 27th and on May 5th and 13th. In autumn there were three records, one on Aug 25th, five on Aug 31st and one on Sept 1st. The five on Aug 31st were found during the Autumn Birdcount when a large number of people were out looking for migrants which shows that many more birds like Whinchat must go through undetected. 1997 A very poor year for this migrant with just three records. There were two on May 3rd and one on May 13th. In autumn the only one was on Sept 6th, reflecting the general dearth of migrants. 116. STONECHAT Saxicola saxicola A scarce passage migrant 1996 Three records, all of single birds, on Mar 25th, 28th and Oct 5th. There were none in 1997. 117. WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe A regular passage migrant 1996 The first migrants occurred on Mar 24th when six were found, three were still present the following day. There was one on Mar 30th, four on Apr 8th, singles on Apr 19th and 21st and two on Apr 25th. The last spring bird was on May 6th. The only autumn birds occurred in August with one on the 14th, two on the 26th and one on the 31st. 1997 There were no March migrants this year. The first one was on Apr 1st, followed by singles on 4th, 11th, 23rd, 25th, two on 26th and further singles on 30th and May 3rd. In autumn there was one on Aug 14th and two on Sept 9th. Almost all birds were seen on West Hendon Playing Fields. 118. RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus A scarce passage migrant 1997 A female flew over the dump at 08.30 on the Spring Birdcount on Apr 26th (ASMS). 119. BLACKBIRD Turdus merula A common breeding resident 1996 In spite of this species being one of the commonest birds at the reservoir, the only entry in the logbook was on May 5th when juveniles were noted in Braemar Avenue and in East Marsh. 1997 The first juvenile was seen on May 5th, the same date as last year. A pair with four juveniles was seen on June 29th. A flock of 20 was noted in the snow on the South Bank on Dec 17th. 120. FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris A regular winter visitor 1996 The year started with 24 on Jan 6th, followed by 60+ on Jan 27th, no more large counts were made and the last one was seen on April 11th. At the end of the year, returning birds were seen from Nov 2nd when 54 were noted and the highest count was 100 on Dec 29th. 1997 The only high count in the first part of the year was 40 on Jan 11th. The last North bound migrant was on the late date of May 1st. Returners were seen from Oct 13th. A count of 69 was made on Nov 9th with only three other counts over 20 in the rest of the year. 121. SONG THRUSH Turdus philomelos A breeding resident 1996 Despite our pleas for more records of this species, the only one received was three singing males on Apr 5th. 1997 Proof of breeding was obtained with juveniles seen in the churchyard on Apr 26th and in East Marsh on July 17th. Three birds were seen on Dec 20th. 122. REDWING Turdus iliacus A common winter visitor 1996 There were several high counts made of this species at the beginning of the year: 235+ on Jan 4th, 205 on the 6th, c300 on the 7th, 170 on the 10th, 200+ on the 27th and 190 on Feb 10th. The last ones were five on Apr 11th, the same date as Fieldfare. Birds returned on Oct 6th when 25 were seen but numbers remained low with no more than 60 being seen. 1997 Numbers were much lower at the start of the year compared to 1996; the only three figure count was 118 flying NE on Mar 16th. The last one was seen on Apr 26th. Autumn birds returned on Oct 12th, a superb day for visible migration when a massive 3,600 were logged flying W, mainly between 09.30 - 11.00 (ASMS). Although this is the highest ever count at Brent it pales into insignificance compared to the 12,000 counted at nearby Hampstead Heath on the same day. 123. MISTLE THRUSH Turdus visvivorus A breeding resident 1996 A pair with four young were seen on May 28th in Woodfield Park. Eight were seen on Aug 24th and four flew W on Sept 28th. 1997 Two pairs bred this year with two juveniles seen on May 2nd and another five on May 25th. Nine birds were counted on Sept 15th and six flew W on Oct 4th with seven more flying over on the 5th. 124. GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia A scarce passage migrant 1997 One was found on the Spring Birdcount on Apr 26th at 06.30 (JPC/ASMS) and was heard singing between the hides all day and briefly the next day. 125. SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus A breeding migrant 1996 Present between Apr 21st and Aug 31st when five were seen on the Autumn Birdcount. A juvenile was noted on the North Bank on June 29th, though several pairs probably bred. 1997 The first migrant was found on Apr 13th, followed by three singing birds on 24th and seven on 27th. Nine birds were seen on May 2nd and six singing birds which were present on 26th probably represent the breeding population. The last autumn migrants were two on Aug 12th. 126. REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus A common breeding migrant 1996 The first ones turned up on Apr 24th, by Apr 27th there were 11 birds seen. A count of 20 singing males was made on June 1st and 2nd. The last one of the year was noted on Sept 23rd. 1997 Present from Apr 13th to Sept 27th. The peak count was 12 singing males on May 2nd. 127. LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca A breeding migrant 1996 Present between Apr 25th and Sept 24th. The highest count of the year was made on the Autumn Birdcount on Aug 31st when 10 were seen. 1997 These arrived very late this year with none seen until May 1st; the mean arrival date for the last seven years is Apr 24th. However, they wasted no further time with eight seen on May 5th and the first brood on June 29th. Autumn numbers were low with a peak of five on three dates. 128. WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis A common breeding migrant 1996 The first migrant was noted on Apr 15th, by Apr 22nd there were seven, increasing to 22 on Apr 27th. In autumn, eight were noted on Aug 31st, there were two on Sept 21st and two very late birds on Oct 21st. 1997 Present between Apr 14th and Sept 14th. The peak count was 25 males on May 5th. In autumn there were 10+ on Aug 12th and five on 30th. 129. GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin A regular passage migrant, occasional breeder 1996 Four were recorded in spring: on May 11th, 13th, 20th and 25th. One was heard singing in the allotments on July 11th and three were found on Aug 31st. 1997 There were nine records of singing males in spring between Apr 19th and May 26th. These were recorded from five different locations with two birds on two dates but no proof of breeding was found. In autumn there were two records in July and two in August with the last on Aug 31st. 130. BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla A common breeding migrant and occasional winter visitor 1996 The only winter records were of one on Feb 11th, one on Nov 16th and two on Dec 15th. The first summer migrants arrived on Apr 8th when two were seen, increasing to seven on the 26th and 15 on the 27th. The first family party was noted on June 15th. 1997 There were only two winter records this year: singles on Feb 9th and Dec 6th. The first arrival was one heard singing on Mar 27th. Singing males increased throughout the spring with three on Apr 1st, 12 on 7th, 15 on 13th, 18 on on 19th, 20 on 24th and peaking at 22 on May 2nd. 131. CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita A common passage migrant and regular winter visitor, occasional breeder 1996 Three were seen on Jan 2nd with singles on Jan 14th and Feb 17th. Two on Mar 23rd may have been the first summer visitors. Five birds were noted on three dates in Apr. None were seen in May, suggesting that they did not breed this year, although there were a few June records with three singing males on the 15th. Autumn passage was down compared to last year with a peak of just five on Oct 5th. Four were noted on Nov 23rd, three on Dec 8th and two on Dec 17th. 1997 One seen on Jan 1st was the only one until March. Two were singing on Mar 8th, followed by four on 15th, six on 16th, eight on 31st and nine on Apr 12th. There were further singing birds in May and six singing on June 29th. In autumn the peak was 12 birds on Aug 30th. Two were seen on Nov 30th and three on Dec 19th and 24th with one of the latter showing characteristics of the abietinus race. 132. WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus A common breeding migrant 1996 The first bird arrived on the relatively early date of Mar 28th. The next one was not seen until Apr 9th with most birds not arriving until the end of the month when 17 were noted on Apr 27th. In autumn, seven were seen on August 31st and the last bird was on Sept 22nd. 1997 Present between Apr 4th and Sept 21st. The spring peak was 15 males on Apr 24th and in autumn, 13 birds on Aug 30th. One interesting bird on Apr 13th appeared to be a hybrid with a Chiffchaff as it sang both songs, although neither was note perfect. It also had pale legs and a short primary projection (JPC/ASMS). 133. GOLDCREST Regulus regulus A regular passage and winter visitor, occasional breeder 1996 At the beginning of the year, six were found on Jan 1st, one or two were still present up until Mar 16th. Two were heard singing in the Churchyard on May 30th and June 2nd and a pair with young was seen there on July 9th. The first autumn bird arrived on Oct 26th and birds were then noted until the end of the year with a peak of six on Nov 22nd. 1997 As usual, most records came from the churchyard. There were four there on Jan 2nd and May 20th, with one singing on Apr 20th. Autumn migrants were seen from Sept 19th when there were five. The highest count was 19 on Dec 22nd, 15 of those being in the churchyard. 134. FIRECREST Regulus ignicapillus A scarce visitor 1996 The bird first found on Nov 23rd 1995 remained in East Marsh until Mar 30th (ASMS et al), representing the first over-wintering record at the reservoir. It was observed displaying to a Goldcrest on Mar 15th. 1997 Another winter record this year, although only seen on one day, one was in trees along Braemar Avenue on Jan 24th (ASMS). More typically, one was in a tit flock on Nov 9th (JPC). 135. SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata A regular passage migrant, formerly bred 1996 Probably the worst ever year for this declining species. There were just three records: one on May 6th and 28th and two on Aug 31st. 1997 A slight improvement on last year with five records. One or two were seen on May 3rd and one the next day. In autumn, there was one on Aug 30th, two on Sept 6th and one on Sept 7th. 136. PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca A scarce passage migrant 1996 Two records in one year represents a bumper year for this species which is seen less than annually. A male was seen in the North Marsh on Apr 16th (PW) and a female was found on the dump on Apr 27th (JPC). 1997 A stunning male was found in North Marsh on the afternoon of the Spring Birdcount (Apr 26th) and was seen by most of those present (MD). 137. LONG-TAILED TIT Aeguthalus caudatus A breeding resident 1996 Two pairs on Apr 8th, a family party on June 16th and c15 on Nov 3rd were the only records in the logbook but this species is known to be commoner than this. 1997 Eight pairs were located in April and May. A high count of 60+ was made on Oct 6th. 138. COAL TIT Parus ater A breeding resident and occasional visitor 1996 Two in East Marsh on Jan 9th along with singles there on Mar 2nd, 3rd and 12th were probably visitors as the resident pair rarely stray from the Churchyard. This pair was seen with four juveniles on June 2nd. Two more single birds were seen away from this locality on Oct 2nd and Nov 8th. 1997 The only records away from the churchyard were singles caught up in mixed tit flocks on June 30th and Sept 7th. No proof of breeding was seen this year but they were present all year. 139. BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus A common breeding resident 1996 This species is virtually never mentioned in the logbook and the year's only record was of six singing males on Apr 5th. This was just for part of the reservoir (South Bank, East & North Marshes, Dump, Allotments and WHPF) but it is interesting to note that Great Tits out-numbered Blue Tits by 3:2. 1997 Although common, the only records were a nest with young on May 5th and a family party on 26th. 140. GREAT TIT Parus major A common breeding resident 1996 The only record in the logbook this year was on Apr 5th when nine singing males were counted around the reservoir. Not all areas were visited so this obviously is an under-estimate of the number of territories held. 1997 No counts of singing males were made this year. Several family parties were noted in May and June. 141. TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris Occasional visitor, formerly bred 1996 The first record of the year was not until the Autumn Birdcount when two were seen in the Churchyard on Aug 31st. Singles were then noted in various localities on Sept 22nd and 23rd, Oct 22nd, Dec 6th and 8th . 1997 12 records this year, mostly from East marsh but also seen once on North Bank, South Bank and the churchyard. Seven of those records were in January and February. 142. PENDULINE TIT Remiz pendulinus A rare vagrant 1996 The highlight of the year and the fourth official rarity to be recorded at Brent in 1996. An immature bird was heard and seen briefly on Nov 16th in North Marsh. It was relocated in East Marsh the following day but remained very elusive and was not seen again until Nov 22nd after which it disappeared for good (RB/JPC/ASMS). A full account appears on page 49 1997 Almost unbelievably, this major rarity was recorded again. This time three birds, possibly a female and two immatures were found at 10.18 in the North Marsh on Nov 2nd (JPC/AGV). They were fairly mobile and were feeding on Bulrushes. At 12.15 they flew off S and were not seen again. 143. JAY Garrulus garrulus A breeding resident 1996 The only entry in the logbook was on Apr 13th when one was heard singing in East Marsh on Apr 13th. The quiet warbling song of this species is rarely heard and unknown by many people. 1997 A nest with young was found on May 5th. Nine on Oct 4th may relate to an autumnal influx. 144. MAGPIE Pica pica A common breeding resident 1996 Several records were received this year: 15 in one tree on the North Bank on Jan 14th; 11 on the dam on Mar 16th and one was observed stealing an egg from a Coot's nest on May 12th. 1997 15 were seen in one tree on Jan 18th. One was attacked by 30 Crows but managed to escape. A high count of 30 in one tree on North Bank was made on Nov 23rd. 145. JACKDAW Corvus monedula A regular migrant 1996 An over-wintering bird in the North Marsh from 1995 stayed until Mar 10th. Two were seen on Mar 23rd and one on the 30th. Four migrants were seen in April and nine in May with seven flying over on the 5th. After one on June 1st, there were no further sightings until Sept 22nd. In October, five flew W on the 5th and singles were noted on the 21st and 22nd. 1997 Singles were seen on Jan 5th, Feb 18th and Mar 22nd. Two flew E on May 3rd and one was seen on 4th. A juvenile was seen on June 30th and July 6th with two on 21st. Autumn passage started with two on Sept 27th followed by three on Oct 4th and 11th, one on 17th, four on 18th, two on 19th and 23rd, six on Nov 8th and finally one on 22nd. 146. ROOK Corvus frugilegus A scarce migrant 1996 One was seen flying over East Marsh on Mar 30th (ASMS) and two flew E on Oct 5th (ASMS). 1997 Five records this year was the best since the 1960s. Singles were seen on Mar 15th (JPC/EW), 22nd and 25th (JPC), with two on 30th (ASMS) and Apr 6th (RB/EW). All were in East Marsh. 147. CARRION CROW Corvus corone A common breeding resident. 1996 The numbers roosting in East Marsh remained high, at least for the first half of the year. A count on Apr 5th reached 208. Someone obviously took a dislike to these birds as up to 200 were illegally poisoned on WHPF on Sept 7th (per Brent Leader). Very few birds were seen around the reservoir over the following weeks. Numbers very slowly increased eg, just 41 on Dec 10th. However, by the end of the month a massive 500+ were counted in the roost on Dec 30th (JPC). 1997 Roost counts of 250+ on Mar 31st and 260 on Apr 7th were virtually all the records received. 148. STARLING Sternus vulgaris A common breeding resident 1996 No records were received for the second year in a row apart from appearing on the day-lists of the Spring and Autumn Birdcounts. 1997 21 juveniles in a feeding flock on South Bank on June 8th had increased to 61 on July 12th, with an additional 16 juveniles on North Bank on the same day. 149. HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus A common breeding resident 1996 No records were received this year, although there was known to be a small flock resident in the McDonalds car park on Neasden Lane! 1997 Rarely seen at the reservoir, except in the adjacent gardens and as mentioned above. 150. TREE SPARROW Passer montanus A scarce migrant 1996 Two were seen on Oct 6th (RB), the first ones since September 1992. 1997 Two records this year, both of which were of single birds flying over. One was on Jan 11th at 15.30 near Staples Corner (JPC) and the other was on Apr 26th over Woodfield Park (JPC). 151. CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs A regular migrant and winter visitor 1996 In the first half of the year, the only records were a pair on Apr 7th and three on June 23rd. There was a strong autumn passage with four on Oct 2nd, seven on the 6th, 15+ on the 12th, 17 flying W on the 20th, 13 on the 21st and eight on the 22nd. This continued in November when 25 flew NW on the 9th. In December, six were seen on the 1st, four on the 8th and eight birds were watched feeding on seeds around a bird table on the 15th. 1997 25 on Jan 2nd was the highest count in winter. One male summered in Woodfield Nursery. Autumn passage was much lighter this year with six on Oct 11th, three on 12th and 10 on 18th. 152. BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla A scarce migrant and winter visitor 1996 One was seen in a tree in Birchen Grove in the early morning of Oct 6th (ASMS). One was seen flying over the dump and another observed in the Churchyard on Oct 21st (JPC). A flock of 15 flew NE over the reservoir at 14.00 on Dec 28th (JPC). Three records in one year is quite exceptional as this species had only been seen once in the previous five years. 1997 Another three records this year suggests that this species has been overlooked in the past. 16 flew W on Oct 12th (ASMS) and singles flew over on Nov 2nd (JPC) and Dec 13th (JPC). 153. GREENFINCH Fringilla chloris A breeding resident 1996 The only mention in the logbook was on Oct 24th when eight flew over. However, birds were known to be present throughout the year and a few pairs probably bred. 1997 A common finch seen on most days. Seven flew S on Oct 11th, a good day for visible migration. 154. GOLDFINCH Carduellis carduellis A breeding resident 1996 Proof of breeding was obtained when a pair with two juveniles was seen by the dam on June 29th. 1997 25 were seen on Mar 16th and a very good passage of 55 flying S was noted on Oct 11th. 155. SISKIN Carduellis spinus A regular migrant and occasional winter visitor 1996 The only records for the first half of the year were five on Jan 31st and one on Mar 31st. Autumn passage began on Sept 21 when a group of 15 flew over. This was followed by one the next day and six on the 25th. October records were concentrated in a single week, with three on the 21st, two on the 22nd and three on the 26th. Three were noted on Nov 9th and four on Dec 14th. 1997 One to five birds were seen on seven dates between Jan 2nd and Mar 25th. Odd singles were noted on May 13th and July 6th. Autumn passage started on Sept 1st and birds were then seen regularly until the end of the year, peaking on Oct 11th when 41 flew S. 156. LINNET Carduellis cannabina A breeding migrant and occasional winter visitor 1996 The first ones for the year were three on Mar 23rd. Two singing males were seen on Apr 20th. A large winter flock of 25 was seen on the South Bank on Dec 8th. 1997 Eight flew W on Mar 15th with three pairs noted the following day. Six pairs were located around the dump and North Bank on Apr 20th. 24 birds were counted on Apr 26th. A pair with three juveniles was on the South Bank on July 6th. On Oct 11th, 11 flew S along with five finch species. 157. TWITE Carduellis flavirostris A rare winter visitor 1996 A flock of 15 flew E at tree top height at the back of East Marsh on Dec 7th at 11.50 (RB/ASMS). They provided a welcome distraction to the observers who were carrying out conservation work at the time. This is the first record for several decades and has become almost a rarity in London; indeed there was just one other London record in 1996, at Rainham Marsh on Jan 6th. 158. REDPOLL Carduellis flammea An irregular visitor, has bred once 1996 One on Jan 30th was the only record of the year prior to October. Two were seen on Oct 20th, followed by three the next day and one on the 22nd. In November, two were seen on the 22nd, and then singles on the 23rd and 30th. 1997 None were seen until Sept 20th when there were nine. A good autumn passage followed with 1-10 birds noted between Sept 28th and Nov 30th. A further four singles were seen in December. 159. CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra A scarce visitor 1997 A major irruption of Crossbills took place in Britain this year and four flocks were seen flying SE over Brent, all within eight days. The first was three over Birchen Grove at 06.40 on July 19th (ASMS) and nine over the reservoir at 10.04 on the same day (AGV). Ten flew over Cool Oak Lane at 08.10 on July 21st (AGV) and nine flew over the allotments at 10.00 on July 26th (ASMS). 160. BULLFINCH Phyrrhula phyrrhula A breeding resident 1996 Few records were received of this easily overlooked but attractive finch. A pair was seen on May 27th and two juveniles were recorded near the dump on July 14th. 1997 Two juveniles were seen by the Tennis Courts on Sept 6th and 12 were on the dump on Dec 20th. 161. SNOW BUNTING Plectrophenax nivalis A rare winter visitor 1996 A male was watched flying in from the W heading towards the hide on Nov 23rd at 09.25 (ASMS). It flew low past the hide and was heard calling before flying off E. A male Snow Bunting that was later found on King George V Res in the afternoon may have been the same bird. 162. YELLOWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella An irregular visitor 1997 Now recorded about once every two years. One flew E on Mar 15th at 17.50 (JPC). 163. REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus A breeding migrant, irregular in winter 1996 A pair was seen on Jan 14th and three were noted on Feb 27th. Returning birds boosted the total to seven on Mar 23rd and five singing males were heard on Mar 31st. In autumn, four were seen on Oct 19th and three on Nov 10th. 1997 The first one was noted on Feb 22nd. Numbers rose in March with seven on 8th, 10 on 16th and 11 on 22nd. Five singing males were heard on May 16th. Single juveniles were seen in both marshes on June 29th. In autumn, seven were seen on Oct 18th, five on 22nd, seven on 26th and 11+ on Nov 2nd. A flock wintered on the South Bank with seven counted on Dec 21st. 164. CORN BUNTING Miliaria calandra A scarce visitor 1997 The first record for many years was seen and heard by the dam on Nov 15th (RB). 1996: 141 species 1997: 148 species ESCAPES BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis 1996 One was seen on May 9th. BLACK SWAN Cygnus atratus 1997 One on Mar 22nd. RUDDY SHELDUCK Tadorna ferruginea 1996 Two were seen on June 12th. MUSCOVY DUCK Cairina moschata 1997 One on Jan 25th and 26th. CHILOE WIGEON Anas sibilatrix 1996 A pair in the North Marsh were seen on Dec 21st YELLOW-BILLED PINTAIL Anas georgica 1997 One was seen by the dam on Dec 6th, 14th and 19th. AUSTRALIAN SHOVELER Anas rhynchotis variegata 1996 A male of the New Zealand race first seen on Dec 28th 1995 stayed in North Marsh until Feb 4th. ARGENTINE BLUE-BILL Oxyura vittata 1997 A male present from May 16th to June 8th was often seen displaying to female Ruddy Ducks. COCKATIEL Nymphicus hollandicus 1996 Singles were seen on July 14th and Aug 17th. 1997 Singles were seen on Apr 8th and July 6th. FISCHER'S LOVEBIRD Agopornis fischeri 1997 One was on rooftops by West Hendon Playing Fields on June 22nd. SENEGAL PARROT Poicephalus senegalus 1997 One was present from Aug 8th to Sept 6th; it was later found on Hampstead Heath. AYTHYA HYBRID 1996 One was seen irregularly between Dec 6th and 24th. Its mahogany breast, brown flanks and pale eye identified it as a returning bird which was first seen in 1994. 1997 The same bird was seen irregularly between Apr 19th and May 13th when another hybrid was also seen, probably a Tufted Duck x Scaup. Return to Contents |
| List of Contributors |
| Sacha Barbato (SEB) C. Barfield (CB) Jack Baron (JB) Leo Batten (LAB) Roy Beddard (RB) D. Brougham (DB) Jan-Paul Charteris (JPC) John Colmans (JC) Mike Dawson (MD) Chris Goodie (CG) Simon Graham (SG) Joe Heaphy (JH) Chris Lamsdell (CL) Mark McManus (MM) |
Dominic Mitchell (DM) Andrew Self (ASMS) Bill Sharp (WS) Derek Turner (DT) Andrew Verrell (AGV) British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) Eddie Wang (EW) Derek Warren (DW) David Watson (DAW) Bob Watts (RJW) Philip White (PW) Max Wurr (MW) |
| Thanks also to the many other people who noted their
observations in the logbook that is kept in the main hide. Return to Contents |
| First and Last Dates in 1996 and 1997 |
| First and Last Dates of Regular Migrants 1996 |
| Summer Migrants | Arrival | Departure | |||
| Hobby Common Sandpiper Common Tern Swift Sand Martin Swallow House Martin Yellow Wagtail Whinchat Wheatear Sedge Warbler Reed Warbler Lesser Whitethroat Whitethroat Garden Warbler Willow Warbler Spotted Flycatcher |
Apr 27 Apr 3 Apr 11 Apr 21 Mar 24 Apr 8 Apr 15 Apr 16 Apr 25 Mar 24 Apr 21 Apr 24 Apr 25 Apr 15 May 11 Mar 28 May 6 |
(JPC) (JH) (ASMS) (ASMS) (MM) (ASMS) (AGV) (AGV) (RB) (ASMS) (ASMS) (ASMS) (ASMS) (AGV) (ASMS) (RB) (JB) |
Sep 7 Oct 1 Aug 26 Aug 31 Sep 23 Oct 24 Oct 6 Oct 5 Sep 1 Aug 31 Aug 31 Sep 23 Sep 24 Oct 21 Aug 31 Sep 22 Aug 31 |
(AGV) (CG) (SEB/ASMS) (ASMS) (SEB) (ASMS) (RB/ASMS) (ASMS) (SEB) (ASMS) (mo) (SEB) (RJW) (JPC) (mo) (JPC) (JPC/ASMS) |
|
| Winter Migrants | Departure | Arrival | |||
| Water Rail Fieldfare Redwing Siskin |
Mar 23 Apr 11 Apr 11 Mar 31 |
(ASMS) (ASMS) (ASMS) (ASMS) |
Aug 31 Nov 2 Oct 6 Sep 21 |
(RB/JPC) (LAB/AGV/ASMS) (AGV/ASMS) (JPC/ASMS) |
| First and Last Dates of Regular Migrants 1997 |
| Summer Migrants | Arrival | Departure | |||
| Hobby Common Sandpiper Common Tern Swift Sand Martin Swallow House Martin Yellow Wagtail Whinchat Wheatear Sedge Warbler Reed Warbler Lesser Whitethroat Whitethroat Garden Warbler Willow Warbler Spotted Flycatcher |
Apr 15 Apr 26 Apr 4 Apr 22 Mar 22 Apr 5 Apr 9 Apr 11 May 3 Apr 1 Apr 13 apr 13 May 1 Apr 14 Apr 19 Apr 4 May 3 |
(JPC) (JPC) (RJW) (JPC) (LAB/RB) (AGV/ASMS) (MW) (JPC) (JPC) (JC) (JPC) (JPC) (ASMS) (ASMS) (JPC) (RJW) (JPC) |
Sep 6 Oct 2 Sep 20 Sep 15 Sep6 Oct 26 Oct 12 Oct 11 Sep 6 Sep 9 Aug 12 Sep 27 Sep21 Sep14 Aug 31 Sep 21 Sep7 |
(DB) (SG) (LAB/AGV) (SEB) (RB/ASMS) (ASMS) (AGV/ASMS) (JPC) (ASMS) (RJW) (RB) (JPC) (RB) (AGV) (RB) (RB) (JC) |
|
| Winter Migrants | Departure | Arrival | |||
| Water Rail Fieldfare Redwing Siskin |
Mar 16 May 1 Apr 26 May 13 |
(JPC) (ASMS) (JPC) (JPC) |
Sep 7 Oct 13 Oct 12 Jul 6 |
(JPC) (JPC) (ASMS) (DJL) |
| Return to Contents |
| Rarities at Brent Reservoir in 1996 and 1997 |
| Ring-billed Gull, March 1996 by Andrew
Self |
| Account On March 23rd there was a very heavy passage of gulls, some of which were dropping in and landing on the reservoir, (c2000 had flown over by midday). I headed over to North Marsh with Leo Batten as there is often a good number of gulls roosting there. As we stopped in the North Marsh I put my bins up to look at the closest gulls. One of them was head on and its head was very white. It then stuck its bill out which was yellow with a striking black band and I said almost disbelievingly that it looked like a Ring-billed Gull. Leo and I watched it for about a minute then it was flushed by an aggressive Lesser Black-backed Gull. We carried on watching it flying around quite close for several minutes before it gained height and drifted off southwards. Description Head: Appeared all white with no streaking noted. It had a slight dark smudge in front of the eye which was black. Bill: The most striking feature, yellow with a solid sharply defined black ring and a pale tip. It was quite a thick bill and had straight parallel sides. It was obviously stronger and thicker than that of Common Gull but was shorter and lacked the red spot and pronounced gonys of Herring Gull. Mantle: Pale grey, paler than Common Gull. Size: About 20% larger than Common Gull, smaller than pursuing Lesser Black-backed Gull in flight. Legs: Pink. Wings: Not seen in perched bird as obscured by Common Gull. In flight: Saddle and greater coverts same pale grey colour, Common Gull shows contrasting darker grey saddle. Tail: Showed series of vertical black lines instead of solid sub-terminal black band of Common Gull. Also lines went up side of tail further making a 'U' shape. Also had light brown flecks on rump. |
| White-winged Black Tern, July 1996 by Andrew Self |
| Account On Saturday July 27th, I received a phone call from Mark Hardwick at 07.00 to tell me that a Little Egret had flown over Hampstead Heath and was headed towards Brent. I watched out of my window for a while in case I could see it before deciding to check the reservoir to see if it had landed. I stopped along the North Bank by the jetty at 07.40 to look at East Marsh when this black and white bird flew past my bins. I focused on the bird and when I saw that it was a tern and that it had a white rump, I got very excited as I knew it must be a White-winged Black Tern. This was confirmed when I saw the underwing pattern. Description In Flight:Head, mantle and underbody all black Rump, tail, and undertail coverts white Upperwings: pale silvery-grey with white leading edge Underwings: black coverts, whitish primaries and secondaries At rest: Legs and feet red, legs longer than Common Tern Bill: very dark red, looked black at a distance White shoulder patch on wing Behaviour: It remained in the centre of the reservoir and did not associate with the Common Terns. It flew a lot and fed by swooping down low and picking insects from the surface of the water. It also perched on buoys from time to time. Late afternoon it was flying higher and further around the reservoir. At 17.00 I watched it fly off high to the North. |
| Penduline Tit, November 1996 by Andrew Self |
| Account In the afternoon of Nov 16th, Jan-Paul Charteris saw and heard a bird flying around the reed bed in the Northern Marsh. After checking up on the call he believed that it was probably a Penduline Tit. Independently, Roy Beddard had heard an unusual call in the reed bed. After listening to a tape of the call of Penduline Tit he said that was he had heard. We arranged to meet up in the hide at Brent the following morning. Sunday morning was wet and rather dismal. At 9.15, RB and I were sitting in the main hide when we heard a very distinctive call - a high pitched almost metallic descending "tzzzzeeeeoooooo" - which I recognised instantly as Penduline Tit. We looked hard but could not see any sign of it so we searched all the likely areas. It called several more times during the morning but it still remained hidden. At 11.40 it called again and suddenly appeared just outside the hide on a close patch of bulrush heads just 10 metres away. It was pulling the bulrushes apart and feasting on the seeds within allowing us to get excellent views. I was able to age it as a juvenile as it lacked the dark mask of an adult. It remained feeding in the same area on and off for an hour and a quarter during which time about 15 people managed to see it. It was not seen again until Friday 22nd when JPC heard it call in the same place then saw it fly over towards the main reed bed at 14.45. This was the final sighting. Description Size: similar to Blue Tit Shape: a very upright bird, slimmer than Blue Tit Head: light grey with black beady eye, slightly paler on forehead and just behind the eye. Short black streak on forehead just reaching to crown, (possibly due to matting of feathers). Bill: steely blue colour, small and sharply pointed, like a small version of a Goldfinch's bill. Underparts: white throat, pale peachy/buff breast, belly and undertail coverts. Upperparts: rich apricot mantle, dark brown wings, tertials dark centred with broad pale edges; tail dark brown and markedly forked. Legs: steely blue Call: very distinctive - a short-carrying, sharp, descending long note - "tzzzeeeooooooo". Behaviour: clung on to bulrush stems and pecked at the seed heads and ate the seeds within. It became easy to see where it had been feeding because of the state of the bulrushes. |
| Goshawk, March 1997 by Jan-Paul Charteris |
| Account At 06.55 on March 23rd, I was scanning the North Marsh, glancing up, I saw a raptor come in to view from behind some tall trees. It was flying at a height of approximately 20 metres and at this stage was in direct flight. Its large bulk and slow relaxed wingbeats were immediately obvious and it didn't at first strike me a being a hawk but some other larger raptor. It quickly began to soar, which it did for about four minutes and it was now when I began to suspect it was a Goshawk. Description The body itself was distinctly heavy with a prominent, barrel chested appearance. The wings were broad based and bulged slightly at the secondaries before tapering to relatively pointed (but still fingered) wing tips. The wings were proportionately longer and the tail shorter compared to Sparrowhawk. The tail was very broad based and when spread, (when the bird was soaring), was very rounded. When the bird was in direct flight, the tail was closed and unlike Sparrowhawk, tapered outwards from a broad base to a slightly narrower tip. A striking feature were the very prominent white undertail coverts. These appeared 'fluffed up' (as if in display) and from some angles appeared to almost 'wrap' around the sides of the tail. This had the effect of exaggerating the broad tail base still further. Other than the undertail coverts, the only other striking plumage feature was a contrasting hooded appearance caused by the prominent dark head against the white throat. The rest of the underparts simply appeared greyish with the primaries being far more finely barred than Sparrowhawk. The upperparts were uniformly slate grey-brown. After about four minutes of soaring the bird flew purposefully NW. In direct flight the wing beats were slow (slower and more relaxed than a Crow) and were not really reminiscent of a Sparrowhawk's 'flap-flap-flap-glide' flight. Glides were generally interspersed between periods of flapping flight but the bird would often break the glide with one or two random wing beats. It was about 1.5 times the size of a normal female Sparrowhawk (one of which I watched about 10 minutes earlier being mobbed by a crow) with proportionately a much greater bulk. The Goshawk was noticeably larger and bulkier than the particularly large female Sparrowhawk present in the area. |