Rare & Scarce Birds in Britain & Ireland in 2012

Well, we are at the halfway stage in 2012, and no less than 384 species have been recorded in Britain and Ireland this year. It has also been the wettest spring on record, since at least 1910, most likely contributing to what will become one of the worst breeding seasons ever for birds in modern times.

Conversely, for listing birders however, it has been an exciting and lively six months, the first winter period producing both long-staying Common Yellowthroat and Dark-eyed Junco to join the overwintering Northern Waterthrush as well as an easy male Spanish Sparrow in residence. Both Western Sandpiper and Greater Yellowlegs gave themselves up with protracted stays, and the first twitchable UK Thayer’s Gull was well-seen in early spring. Spring proper was dominated by poor weather but high points included a Cream-coloured Courser and Western Orphean Warbler and both excellent performing European Roller and Little Swift towards the end.

White-billed Diver: In Shetland, where this species predominates in terms of its UK occurrences, singles were seen in South Nesting Bay, Kirkabister, on 8 & 22 January and in Bluemull Sound on 10 & 24 January and throughout February and March to 6^th April, whilst in Orkney, singles were off Burray on 13^th January, and Cara, South Ronaldsay, on 5^th February. March often sees a bit of an influx and this year moulting adults were off Portsoy Harbour (Aberdeenshire) on 17^th-19^th and North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 27^th, whilst at the regular staging site off the extreme NW tip of Lewis (Outer Hebrides), up to 3 were sighted during 22^nd-26^th, with 2 on 9^th-10^th & 23^rd April.

In fact, April saw a welcome flourish in records with the aforementioned Portsoy adult remaining until 29^th and another regular adult appearing off Burghead Maltings (Moray) on 12^th. This bird continued to show daily until 8^th May and was joined by a second breeding-plumaged adult from 19^th-23^rd April & 3^rd May. In Orkney, single adults were off Papa Westray on 27^th April and in Widewall Bay, South Ronaldsay, on 29^th, with two being seen off Rerwick Head on 29^th April and off North Ronaldsay on 30^th April. May saw singles off West Burra (Shetland) on 19^th and Sumburgh Head (Shetland) on 28^th. With an adult off Evie (Orkney) from late May until 3^rd June and a first-summer off Brough Lodge, Fetlar (Shetland), on 10^th-11^th June.

Black-browed Albatross: Off Ireland, an immature was seen ‘at sea’, 184 miles SW of Mizen Head (County Cork) on 29^th February. What may have been the same immature was seen several times in the mid English Channel during the second half of June, being photographed from a fishing boast just 30 nautical miles south of Portland Bill (Dorset) on 17^th June.

Cory’s Shearwater: In Kent, one flew east past Dungeness on 29^th April.

North Atlantic Little Shearwater: One was seen early morning off Berry Head, Brixham (South Devon), on 7^th June. Its visit coincided with that of a major displacement of Atlantic seabirds, caused by a very deep and unseasonal low pressure system, involving unprecedented numbers of Pomarine Skuas and Storm Petrels.

Wilson’s Storm Petrel: The first of the summer season, typically in the Western Approaches off Scilly, appeared 5 miles south of St Mary’s on 13^th June.

Leach’s Petrel: During some exceptional weather for spring, storm-blown singles were seen flying past Spurn (East Yorks) and Sheringham (Norfolk) on 15^th May.

Little Bittern: In Pembrokeshire, a first-summer male was seen at Teifi Marshes, Cilgerran, on 19^th-20^th April. Much later in the summer, a first-summer female appeared on the River Colne at Stocker’s Lake, Rickmansworth (Herts), showing well from 10^th-17^th June. It reappeared briefly on the River Chess, Chenies Bottom (Bucks), on 21^st.

Cattle Egret: Three wintering birds remained in residence throughout January, with singles at Tophill Low NR and Hempholme (East Yorks) until 1^st February, near Warblington Church (Hampshire) until 11^th February and at Hillsborough Lake in County Down until 25^th March. One was then seen at Seaford (East Sussex) on 7^th February before one reappeared in the Lydney area (Gloucs) from 15^th February until at least 27^th April.

In March, singles were at Kingston Maurward, near Dorchester (Dorset) on 11^th-22^nd and at Swineham Point, Wareham, on 16^th and in Lytchett Bay, Poole Harbour, from 24^th March to 13^th April, Brading Marsh (Isle of Wight) on 5^th & 15^th, flying north over Frinton-on-Sea (Essex) on 11^th, at Hill Farm, Theale (Berks) from 18^th until 3^rd May and at Bowling Green Marsh, Topsham (Devon), on 27^th and nearby Powderham Lake on 1^st April, whilst in April, singles were at Chigborough Lakes, near Maldon (Essex), on 6^th-15^th, Walmsley Sanctuary (Cornwall) on 6^th-30^th, at both Snettisham RSPB and Burnham Overy Marshes (North Norfolk) on 25^th and at Pevensey Levels (East Sussex) on 28^th.

In Ireland in April, two were at Tintern Abbey, Bannow Bay (County Wexford) from 9^th-16^th, with one lingering until 21^st.

In May, singles were noted at Earls Barton (Northants) on 1^st-5^th before moving to Manor Farm and Old Wolverton (North Bucks) on 19^th-21^st and in Christchurch Harbour (Dorset) on 5^th-6^th, whilst in Ireland, one remained near Bantry (County Cork) until 23^rd.

Great White Egret: the increase in this species continues with the first breeding attempt successful and no less than 25 individuals overwintering. At Shapwick Heath NNR (Somerset), no less than 8 different individuals were roosting together in February, this culminating in a pair fledging three young in June.

Black-crowned Night Heron: an interesting January record involved a metal-ringed adult at Atherstone (Warks) that had been hatched in captivity at Burger’s Zoo in Holland on 18^th April 2009. It had been subsequently transferred to Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire on 18^th October 2009, from where it had escaped in December 2011.

High pressure and warm southerly winds saw a major arrival of Iberian-bound birds in March, with an adult commuting between Kenidjack Valley and Polgigga (Cornwall) from 12^th April until 2^nd May (and seen again on 15^th April), an adult at Consols Pond, St Ives (Cornwall), from 17^th-25^th (then over the Hayle Estuary on 29^th) and again on 1^st-3^rd April, three adults and a first-summer in a garden at Woolacombe (North Devon) on 12^th-20^th, an adult at Halsinger Down, Barnstaple (North Devon) on 13^th, an adult at Lower Yelland Farm (North Devon) on 25^th and another at Velator NR, Wrafton (North Devon) on 26^th. In May, an adult was seen at Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 7^th-14^th, with a first-summer at Ilfracombe (Devon) on 21^st and an adult on the Arun Brooks between Amberley and Pulborough (West Sussex) from 15^th-23^rd. June saw yet more arrivals, with a popular first-summer roosting daily on a fishing pit at Lower Pennington Marshes (Hants) from 2^nd-21^st and an adult on Holy Island (Northumberland) on 25^th June. In Shetland, the wing of a first-summer was found at Sand Voe on 28^th June.

In Ireland, an adult was at Skibbereen (County Cork) from 30^th March until 8^th April.

Purple Heron: much scarcer of late but in early spring, singles appeared at Treledydd-fawr, near St David’s (Pembs), on 27^th March, and on the River Otter near Buddleigh Salterton (South Devon) from 3^rd-10^th April, whilst in May, an adult was at Holkham Freshmarsh (Norfolk) on 4^th-6^th and a further bird on Tresco (Scilly) on 19^th. In June, a first-summer at Severalls Reedbed, Church Norton, Pagham Harbour (West Sussex) on 4^th moved to Denge Marsh, Dungeness RSPB (Kent) from 5^th-14^th, whilst a summer-plumaged adult visited the River Stour Water Meadows, Stodmarsh NNR (Kent), on 29^th-30^th.

In Ireland, singles were at Blackditch NR, near Newcastle (County Wicklow) from 23^rd March until 3^rd April, near Bunmahon (County Waterford) from 27^th March until 27^th April and at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 4^th-5^th May.

Squacco Heron: In Avon and Somerset, a confiding adult was at Chew Valley Lake on 2^nd-5^th May and at nearby Blagdon Lake on 6^th-17^th May, whilst Dungeness RSPB Reserve (Kent) notched up yet another record of this species with a first-summer at Denge Marsh on 30^th May. One then visited a garden pond on the Lizard (Cornwall) on 7^th-9^th June, followed by singles at Seaford (East Sussex) on 21^st June and Welney WWT (Norfolk) on 30^th-31^st June.

White Stork: with so many escapes and introduction birds around, this species is difficult to review, but an adult that lingered in Fife until 16^th January, travelled south through Northumberland and East Yorkshire to reach North Lincolnshire in late January was most likely a natural vagrant. After leaving the Horncastle area on 7^th February, it took Kirkby-on-Bain landfill site to its liking, and remained there until 3^rd March. There was then the usual early spring scattering of sightings with the first over Redruth (Cornwall) on 22^nd March, followed by another over Wincanton (Somerset) on 25^th March.

An unprecedented flock of 9 was discovered by a farmer at Abberley (Worcs) on 17^th April, six of them touring the North Wales coastline on 22^nd-23^rd before pitching up in Oxfordshire at Standlake Common from 25^th-30^th. Sadly, one then died after flying into power lines, but the surviving 5 then visited West Sussex on 2^nd-3^rd May, Hampshire on 4^th and Dorset on 5^th-6^th. An additional party of 3 were seen over Broughton Down (Somerset) on 17^th May and Dawlish Warren (Devon) on 21^st May. The five then became four, all attempting to fly south out to sea at Portland Bill (Dorset) on 23^rd May but quickly returning. They were then seen in Somerset on 24^th, Devon on 25^th and incredibly over Lakenheath RSPB (Suffolk) on 28^th. A further two were also seen near Appledore (Kent) on 11^th-13^th May and also toured the South Coast up until 16^th.

By June 2012, the four were in South Yorkshire and over Redmires Reservoir on 2^nd, before drifting over Titchwell (Norfolk) on 4^th and ending up at Dingestow (Gwent) from 6^th-9^th. They then returned north to wander once more along the North Welsh coastline on 10^th, before flying all the way back again to be at Curry Moor (Somerset) on 13^th-18^th. Incredibly, they were back over Penrhyn Bay (Clwyd) on 19^th, before moving to Bamford (Derbyshire) on 28^th. Meanwhile, the flock of 3 last reported in South Devon on 21^st May, lingered near Bognor Regis (West Sussex) from 20^th-24^th June, before being seen over Cissbury Ring on 25^th, Angmering on 28^th, Pulborough Brooks RSPB on 29^th and back at Pagham Harbour on 30^th.

Northern Bald Ibis: An intriguing record concerned that of an unringed adult in Staffordshire from mid May relocating to Cheshire then Greater Manchester in June. It had presumably escaped from a collection in the Midlands. A reintroduction programme is still ongoing in Spain.

Glossy Ibis: A West Coast influx in mid-January contributed to about 65 birds being logged that month, including a single flock of 23 at Carew (Pembrokeshire) from 29^th. In addition to singles in Scilly, Cornwall and Dorset at the beginning of January, further singles were noted at Sandbach Flashes (Cheshire) from 7^th, St Helens (Isle of Wight) on 29^th-31^st and at Fingringhoe Wick EWT (Essex) from 1^st. Furthermore, two were seen in Lancashire (including a very long-stayer at Leighton Moss RSPB) and at Stodmarsh NNR (Kent), whilst 5 different birds were seen in Devon and 32 were seen in South Wales, including two adults and an immature at Marloes Mere (Pembs) from 17^th. In Scotland, a party of 5 visited Bay of Laig, in extreme NW Eigg (Highland) from 20^th, increasing to 7 on 27^th. They were last reported on 14^th February.

Some 55 continued into February including the 23 at Carew until 2^nd; 13 of these then lingered until 12^th, with 2 at Dowrog Common, St David’s (Pembs) on 1^st and an additional 3 still at Marloes Mere all month. In fact, these 3 became a permanent feature until 8^th June, when two moved SE to Steart (Somerset) on 9^th. Elsewhere, ones and twos were seen throughout the UK, perhaps most popular being up to 5 that visited Halvergate Marshes (Norfolk) from 23rd February until 27^th March. Remarkably, only next day, 4 of this group had completed a mammoth 350 mile journey to Germany.

At least 32 lingered into March including two in Scotland (at Mersehead RSPB Reserve, D & G, on 5^th and on North Uist from 23^rd-31^st), the long-staying immature at Saltholme Pools RSPB (Cleveland), the Spanish-ringed first-year at Great Baddow and Maldon (Essex) and another first-year at Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk), whilst in April, 1-2 continued in the Weymouth area (Dorset) and 3 migrated north from Campfield Marsh RSPB (Cumbria) on 28^th to Donmouth and Loch of Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) on 29^th-30^th.

There were still at least 15 lingering into May, with two in the Pagham Harbour area (West Sussex) on 5^th-20^th and long-staying individuals in Cleveland, Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Somerset, Lancashire and Essex. Two were again at Minsmere Levels (Suffolk) from 29^th May until at least late June, whilst up to 4 remained in Wales (including a bird that visited Malltraeth RSPB, Anglesey, on 6^th & 17^th) and the three were in Scotland (at Strathbeg until 2^nd before visiting Drums and Newburgh on 5^th). A further bird was at Barassie (Ayrshire) on 5^th May.

In June, two lingered at Minsmere RSPB all month, with an immature still at Marloes Mere and another roaming between Sussex and Hampshire.

Many individuals were ringed and traced back to the Coto Donana in southern Spain, where the breeding population there has increased dramatically in recent years.

The winter influx was also mirrored in Ireland, with 1-2 seen at several sites in January, 3 at Termoncarragh Lough on The Mullet (County Mayo) on 12^th-13^th, 5 at Dungarvan (Co. Waterford) on 15^th and 5 at Skibbereen (Co. Cork on 28^th. At least 3 continued throughout February, with singles at Timoleague (County Cork) from 14^th March until 28^th April, Moylough (County Galway) from 14^th March until 23^rd April. Numbers increased again in May when of 10 reported, three were in County Cork and up to 4 graced Tacumshin Marsh (County Wexford). One remained at Upper Lough Erne (County Fermanagh) on at least 13^th-19^th June.

Sacred Ibis: Three individuals, two of which were ringed, appeared at Denaby Ings (South Yorks) on 24^th-25^th March and then Moore NR (Cheshire) on 25^th March and had presumably escaped from a local collection. They then visited various sites in the Midlands and along the east coast in April before two then moved to Northumberland and one made a protracted stay in North Norfolk in May-June.

Lesser White-fronted Goose: an adult perhaps of genuine origin remained with up to 104 Taiga Bean Geese in the Yare Valley at Buckenham Carrs and Cantley (Norfolk) until 17^th February.  It was almost certainly the same adult as present from 13^th December 2010 until 24^th January 2011 – at that time, seemingly paired up with one of the Taiga Beans !

LWFG is another problematical species to assess with at any given time, up to 15 escaped adults on the loose in the UK.

Snow Goose: The adult white morph remained with Pink-footed Geese near Greenloaning (Perth & Kinross) from 1^st-9^th January before moving to Carnwath (Clyde) on 15^th-16^th, whilst another visited Loch Evelix, Dornoch (Sutherland) with Greylag Geese on 20^th January. A blue morph was with Greenland White-fronted Geese on Tiree (Argyll) on 16^th-26^th January and again on 22^nd-27^th March. In Ireland, a blue morph remained at Lough MacNean (County Fermanagh) until 21^st March, and the adult white morph lingered at Big Isle (County Donegal) until at least 10^th February.

At the end of March and in early April, a flock of up to 31 Snow Geese was seen at various sites along the south coast, staging as often, on the East Sussex/Kent border at Scotney GP. This 31 was then followed by a party of 6, initially arriving from the sea at Seaford Head (East Sussex). They much later flew north over East Newton (East Yorks) on 20^th April and St Abb’s Head (Borders) next day before settling at Wasbister (Orkney) on 22^nd-23^rd April. Intriguingly, the darvic-ringed bird amongst them showed that they originated from the non-naturalised population near Dusseldorf in Germany. Although Oxfordshire is often cited as the origin of some of our large flocks of Snow Geese, this does now prove that Germany and Holland self-sustaining populations offer an alternative origin.

Ross’s Snow Goose: up to four different adults accompanied the huge and ever-increasing number of wintering Pink-footed Geese in North Norfolk throughout January, 3 of them being seen at Holkham Freshmarsh during 6^th-11^th. The two Docking area adults were last reported on 12^th February, whilst the Halvergate Marshes adult lingered until early March and that regular adult at Holkham roosted regularly until 29^th February.An adult considered to be of more dubious origin remained with the Barnacle Geese on the Solway Firth, being seen near Bowness-on-Solway (Cumbria) from 1^st January until 12^th February before moving to Caerlaverock WWT (D & G) on 15^th-24^th February, Mersehead RSPB until 6^th March and to Rockcliffe Marsh (Cumbria) from 1^st-9^th April. By February’s end, there was some hint of return movement, with an adult with Pink-feet in the East Chevington (Northumberland) area from 25th February to 11^th March, whilst further singles staged off on their northward journey at Carnwarth (Clyde) from 14^th-25^th March, Rattray Head (Aberdeenshire) on 1^st-4^th April and near Forres (Moray) on 24^th-28^th April..

Small Canada Goose and considered vagrant Greater Canada Geese: at least 5 vagrant birds were seen in January, including an interior near Fleetwood (Lancs) until 9^th and later at Caerlaverock WWT (D & G) until 15^th March and up to 4 hutchinsii on Islay (Argyll). A further hutchinsii lingered with Barnacle Geese on Berneray and North Uist (Outer Hebrides) from 15^th-21^st April.

In addition, two different presumed vagrant hutcjinsii were recorded much further south than normal, with a first-winter at Torr Reservoir (Somerset) from 1^st January until mid March, moving to Chew Valley lake (Avon) on 25^th-28^th March & 15^th April and another at Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) from 25^th March to 10^th April.

In Ireland, 3 hutchinsii were with Barnacle Geese in the Lissadell area (County Sligo) until at least mid March.

Richardson’s Cackling Geese (hutchinsii) winter in Texas and northern Mexico but autumn 2011 saw larger numbers than usual winter over a thousand miles away in NE Canada. There were also abnormal numbers of Snow Geese lingering there and with 23 North American birds of 11 species alone at Chew Valley Lake, the likelihood that the Somerset/Avon and Gwent bird of November 2011 were displaced natural vagrants.

Red-breasted Goose: single first-winters of presumably wild origin were present with Dark-bellied Brent Geese on the Exe Estuary (South Devon) and at Old Hall Marshes RSPB (Essex) throughout January, whilst an additional first-winter consorted with Barnacle Geese on the Solway Firth visiting Cardurnock (Cumbria) on 22^nd-23^rd January before moving to Caerlaverock WWT (Dumfries & Galloway) on 25^th and then Southerness Point until at least 1^st May.

The Exe Estuary bird lingered in South Devon until 19^th February before moving to Keyhaven Marshes (Hants) on 25^th-26^th then Needs Ore Point (Hants) until 20^th March whilst that in Essex frequented the assorted creeks and marshes until 27^th March. An adult was a new discovery on the River Deben north of Felixstowe Ferry (Suffolk) on 10^th February, this bird lingering with Dark-bellied Brents until 9^th March, whilst one appeared with Pink-footed Geese near Braco (Perth & Kinross) on 31^st March and was possibly that near Brora (Sutherland) on 24^th-28^th April.

American Black Duck: In Ireland, the resident drake was reported from Sruhill Lough, Achill Island (County Mayo) intermittently during January to March.

American Wigeon: at least 5 individuals remained from 2011 with single wintering drakes at Dawlish Warren NNR (South Devon) (until 19^th March), Anglers Country Park, Wintersett (West Yorks) (until 5^th March), Lochmaben (D & G) (until 5^th April) and at Loch Bee, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) (until 15^th February and joined by a second on 19^th January) and a female at Bodenham Lake (Herefordshire) (until 28^th February). Additional drakes appeared at Longton (Lancs) on 7^th-8^th January, Coombe Hill Meadows NR (Gloucs) on 12^th-16^th January, Loch of Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) on 16^th January (and again on 5^th-10^th February), North Warren RSPB (Suffolk) on 1^st-4^th February, Bay of Suckquoy (Orkney) on 19^th February to 25^th March, Marlingford (Norfolk) on 1^st-9^th March and on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) from 14^th-16^th May. A pair was then discovered at Gutcher, Yell (Shetland), on 24^th May, quickly relocating further north at Haroldswick, Unst, until 26^th, whilst what was presumably February’s drake returned to Strathbeg RSPB on 17^th-26^th June.

In Ireland, a drake was at Rahasane Turlough NR (County Galway) from 8^th January until at least 29^th March, with another at Portmore Lough (County Antrim) from 7^th-11^th April.

Falcated Duck: A drake was with Eurasian Wigeon at Cross Lough, on the Mullet (County Mayo) from 2^nd-11^th April, representing the first record for Ireland of this resplendent wildfowl.

Blue-winged Teal: a juvenile drake remained at Longham Lakes, Bournemouth (Dorset) until 14^th January, with another on Lower Moors, St Mary’s (Scilly) until 4^th March and a further juvenile at Loch Stiapavat, Lewis (Outer Hebrides) from 13^th-19^th January. An adult drake, perhaps a regular bird, appeared at Threave Castle, Castle Douglas (D & G) on 4^th-14^th February, with a female at Walmsley Sanctuary, Wadebridge (Cornwall), from 18^th March until 4^th May and a further drake at Ham Walls RSPB (Somerset) from 11^th-18^th April. The Scottish drake was then relocated at Glengavel Water, near Drumclog (Clyde) on 1^st-16^th April, before moving to Loch Leven (Perth & Kinross) on 22^nd-23^rd April and Bridgend Farm Pools, near Kirkintilloch (Clyde) from 6^th-22^nd May.

In Ireland, the long-staying adult female remained on North Bull Island (County Dublin) until at least 7^th January (moving to the Skerries on 28^th-30^th March), whilst a drake visited Pat Reddan’s Lake, Borriskane (County Tipperary) on 12^th-14^th March and an eclipse drake was at Tacumshin (County Wexford) from 30^th June into July.

Ring-necked Duck: Single drakes were present at Par Beach Pool, St Austell (Cornwall) all January and Cowpen Bewley Lake (Cleveland) all January, with two first-winter drakes at Chard Junction GP (Dorset) until early April. Single females were seen at Hatfield Moors, near Doncaster (South Yorks) from 3rd January until 19^th February, Ranworth Broad (Norfolk) from 1^st January until 14^th February (then at Wroxham Broad on 29^th-30^th April) and on Coot Loch, Benbecula (Outer Hebrides) from 11^th February until 19^th April.

As spring approached, migrant drakes appeared at Shearman’s Wath (Lincs) from 9^th-12^th April, Barton Broad (Norfolk) on 16^th April, Loch Kinord (Aberdeenshire) (2 birds) on 7^th April, Loch of Skene (Aberdeenshire) (same two birds) on 28^th April and West Ashby (Lincs) on 7^th-11^th May, with summering drakes at Frodsham Marsh (Cheshire) on 4^th-10^th June, Holme Pierrepont (Notts) on 9^th-10^th June and at Loch Finlaggan, Islay (Argyll), on 12^th-26^th June.

Ferruginous Duck: A drake remained at Ivy Lake, Blashford GP (Hants) until 27^th January, with a different drake at Woolhampton GP (Berks) on 14^th-15^th January and from 4^th-13^th February, subsequently located at Bray GP, Maidenhead (Berks) from 16^th-23^rd February. A female also visited Paxton Pits NR (Cambs) on 7^th-9^th January, with a drake of unknown origin commuting between Ranworth Broad and Whitlingham CP (Norfolk) from 13^th-29^th January. A further drake reached Wimbleball Lake (Somerset) on 5^th-13^th February with females at Linford NR (North Bucks) on 11^th-12^th March, Strumpshaw Fen RSPB (Norfolk) on 3^rd April, Lisvane Reservoir, Cardiff (Glamorgan) on 6^th-7^th April and at Steeple Langford (Wilts) on 11^th-15^th April..

In Ireland, a drake was at Mullaghmore Lough (County Monaghan) on 14^th January before being shot, with another at Oxford Island (County Armagh) on 28^th.

Lesser Scaup: the wintering females remained at Marden Quarry (Northumberland) until 23^rd January and Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) until 4^th April respectively, with the drake in Cardiff Bay and environs (South Wales) until 28^th April. A female was also discovered at Loch of Skene (Aberdeenshire) on 6^th-9^th January, with a first-winter male on Dozmary Pool and Siblyback Lake, Bodmin Moor (Cornwall) from 15^th January to 17^th February and another first-winter male at Newquay Boating Lake (Cornwall) on 19^th-21^st February and latterly at Chew Valley Lake (Avon) on 23^rd February and again from 11^th-23^rd March. In northern Scotland, the regularly wintering drake was reported from St John’s Loch, near Thurso (Caithness) from 21^st February until at least 11^th May.

In Ireland, single drakes were on Lough Sheelin (County Cavan) from 18^th January until 19^th February and Lough Gill, Castlegregory (County Kerry) from 1^st January until at least 17^th February.

Dresser’s Eider: In County Donegal, an adult drake showing characters of this North American form was seen off the Isle of Doagh, Ballyliffin, on 3^rd June and off the west side of Malin Head on 13^th-16^th June.

King Eider: an adult drake flew past Chanonry Point (Highland) on 10^th January followed by singles in Burghead Bay (Moray) on 1^st March and near Brora in the Dornoch Firth (Sutherland) on 24^th March. From 27^th March, the regular drake returned for a third successive spring to the Ythan Estuary (Aberdeenshire), where it was most easily located from Inches Point, whilst on 21^st April, a female was photographed about a mile offshore from a boat in the Wash off Leverton (Lincs). Another female was discovered at Rubha Ardvule, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 1^st May, whilst meanwhile the Ythan drake relocated to Murcar late in the month to commence its annual moult. It remained there into July.

In Ireland, a first-winter female was off Annagh Head (County Mayo) on 1^st March, with a first-summer drake off Portnoo (County Donegal) on 18^th-19^th May.

North American Black Scoter: In Aberdeenshire, a first-summer drake was off Murcar Golf Links at Blackdog from 14^th June into July.

Surf Scoter: a first-winter drake remained off Penzance (Cornwall) until 9^th April, whilst the female present for its fourth consecutive winter lingered off Dawlish Warren (Devon) until 23^rd February. In North Wales, three drakes were identified amongst several thousand offshore scoter off Llandullas (Clwyd) on 14^th-28^th January and these remained but were rarely seen until at least early April, with a female showing well near Morfa Nefyn from 24^th January until 5^th April. Meanwhile, in Scotland, a regular adult drake was in Largo Bay (Fife) on 13^th-15^th January and throughout March and April, with single drakes off Buckhaven (Fife) on 18^th February, Portmahomack (Highland) on 18^th-21^st April, Blackdog Rocks (Aberdeenshire) on 29^th April and off Rerwick Head (Orkney) on 19^th-21^st April.

The Largo drake moved south across the Forth in May to be seen off Gosford Bay (Lothian) from 8^th-20^th, whilst two drakes were in the Sound of Barra (Outer Hebrides) on 15^th May and a first-summer drake was in Loch Gairloch (Highland) on 30^th May. Midsummer saw the annual build up in numbers of moulting scoter off Blackdog and Murcar Golf Links (Aberdeenshire), this year involving at least 6 different Surf Scoters (four drakes and two females) from 6^th June. Further north in Orkney, a female was in Echnaloch Bay, Burray, from 10^th-19^th June.

A further 9 were reported from Ireland in January, including 3 off Lahinch (County Clare) on 23^rd, with a first-winter drake being seen off Garretstown (County Cork) until 22^nd April.

Bufflehead: In Cornwall, the juvenile male remained on the Loe Pool, Helston until 4^th March. It made a brief excursion to Drift Reservoir on 3^rd January and also visited Trelusback, near Redruth, on 4^th March before departing, perhaps to Holland in April. What was then most likely the same bird then appeared in North Lincolnshire on 27^th April, spending a few hours late afternoon at Covenham Reservoir near Louth.

Hooded Merganser: in addition to the ever-present drake of unknown origin at Radipole Lake RSPB (Dorset), a female was present at Whetstead GP, Tonbridge (Kent), intermittently from 10^th February until 6^th March.

Black Kite: One flew north over Wallington (London) on 30^th March spearheading a somewhat typical scattering of records in April and May, virtually all of which were brief flyovers. More unusual was one over Boddam and Virkie (Shetland) on 7^th April. By June, sightings were scarce, but did include a first-summer in the Aldbrough area (East Yorks) on 7^th and a long-staying bird wandering Shetland between 18^th & 27^th June.

In Ireland, an adult visited Vartry Reservoir, Roundwood (County Wicklow) on 24^th March, followed by singles in May at Galley Head (County Cork) on 1^st and Lady’s Island Lake (County Wexford) on 15^th.

White-tailed Sea Eagle: a rather scruffy, heavily moulting second-winter flew NE over East Hyde (Beds) on 10^th February and over Rye Meads RSPB (Herts) next day before moving to Kent, where it flew in off the sea over Sheppey later on 11^th, roosted in a tree near Botolph’s Bridge, Hythe, on 14^th and did the same for over three hours on Romney Marsh near Brookland (East Sussex) on 16^th. It was seen again briefly at Saltwood (Kent) on 19^th before moving and roosting overnight at Caister-on-Sea (Norfolk) on 21^st-22^nd February.

This species goes from strength to strength on the near Continent and is also increasing in Poland, Germany and European Russia.

Pallid Harrier: Following an unprecedented autumn for this species in NW Europe, a juvenile male continued to linger in Ireland at Lough Corrib (County Galway) until 2^nd April. This was followed by a migrant adult male photographed at Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) on 3^rd April and a juvenile through Belvide Reservoir (Staffs) on 14^th April. There was then a marked influx in May, with a juvenile male touring the north Norfolk coast on 5^th, a juvenile at Waxham (Norfolk) on 9^th, a juvenile near Skegness (Lincs) on 8^th and over Donna Nook (Lincs) on 11^th, a juvenile through Spurn (East Yorks) on 6^th and an adult male over Long Buckby (Northants) on 28^th. Just a single bird lingered: a juvenile in the Patrington Haven area (East Yorks) from 14^th-18^th May.

Rough-legged Buzzard: There was a good scattering of records in January to March involving about 25 birds, with Kent and East Anglia hosting the majority of them, with up to 4 wintering at Holkham Freshmarsh and roosting at Wells and East Hills. Further popular juveniles included singles at Burpham (West Sussex), Ouse Fen (Cambs), near Withern (Lincs) and on Shetland at Laxobigging.

More unusual was a wintering bird in Ireland: near Kilcoole (County Wicklow) from 5^th January to 27^th February.

Red-footed Falcon: About a dozen were reported in May and June, over half of them in East Anglia, including well-watched birds at Jubilee River NR, Taplow (Bucks) on 21^st-22^nd, Rockland Broad (Norfolk) on 29^th-31^st, Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) on 30^th-31^st, near Aberfeldy (Perth & Kinross) from 30^th May to 1^st June, Willington GP (Derbyshire) from 4^th-10^th June when found dead and Tealham Moor (Somerset) from 4^th-11^th June and at Tophill Low NR (East Yorks) on 13^th-15^th June.

Ireland saw an influx too, with first-summers at Owenahincha (County Cork) on 24^th May, Tacumshin (County Wexford) from 25^th May to 6^th June, Kilcolgan (County Galway) on 4^th-5^th June and in County Antrim at Slemish Mountain on 14^th-18^th June and Montaigh’s Moss on 24^th-27^th June.

Gyrfalcon: in January, single white morphs were seen near Stromness (Orkney) on 23^rd and near Blennerville (County Kerry) on 15^th, whilst in February, one was at Malaclete, North Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 27^th. Later in spring, a white morph visited Benbecula (Outer Hebrides) on 6^th April

Baillon’s Crake: The third for Ireland and the first in over 150 years there afforded observers with outstandingly close views when it made landfall on Great Saltee Island (County Wexford) on 24^th March.

Coinciding with large numbers on the near continent, a singing male was then present at Malltraeth Marsh RSPB (Anglesey) from 22^nd May until at least 5^th June.

Black-winged Stilt: A bumper year. The first, a male, appeared in Ireland on 30^th March – at Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford). It remained until 10^th April before crossing the Irish Sea and moving to Standlake NR (Oxfordshire) on 12^th, Rutland Water (Leics) on 13^th, Willow Tree Fen, near Spalding (Lincs) on 14^th-18^th and then Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) from 19^th until 18^th May.

A further first-summer male was then discovered at Chew Valley Lake (Avon) on 10^th April before relocating to Radipole Lake RSPB (Dorset) on 11^th and Abbotsbury Swannery (Dorset) on 12^th-18^th, whilst a pair appeared at Clayhanger Marsh (West Midlands) on 19^th, quickly moving north to Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve (Lancs) on 20^th. In Devon, three frequented sites both sides of the upper Exe Estuary on 25^th-27^th April before two moved north to Wrafton Ponds (North Devon) on 28^th-29^th and one moved west to Walmsley Sanctuary (Cornwall) from 28^th until 4^th May.

May saw many more records and some duplication with singles on the Isle of May (Fife) from 1^st-4^th, in Christchurch Harbour (Dorset) on 2^nd, at various sites around the Exe Estuary (South Devon) from 5^th-29^th, at Lodmoor RSPB (Dorset) on 24^th-25^th then Abbotsbury Swannery on 24^th-27^th, at Newport Wetlands NR (Gwent) on 25^th, Hodbarrow RSPB (Cumbria) on 28^th, Shibdon Pond, Blaydon (County Durham) on 29^th and Fairburn Ings (West Yorks) on 30^th-31^st. Additionally, a party of 4 was at Elmley Marshes RSPB (Kent) on 5^th-6^th (two of which lingered there until 11^th), two visited Minsmere RSPB on 7^th and in Cambridgeshire, a pair failed to breed at Upton Fen and a first-summer male remained at Paxton Pits NR from 21^st-24^th. A second pair also attempted to breed at Pennington Marshes (Hants), with a third in Somerset.

A first-summer female lingered into June in Norfolk, visiting Kelling Water Meadows briefly on 6^th before settling at Cley from 6^th-10^th and then moving to Welney WWT on 13^th-18^th.

Cream-coloured Courser: Bird of the year, certainly for me. A fabulous breeding-plumaged adult was discovered on 20^th May at Kington Golf Course, Bradnor Hill, in Herefordshire, where it afforded stunning views for many hundreds of admirers for several days before flying off west on Natch Day late morning on 23^rd. It was the first ever to reach Britain in spring and only the 33^rd overall and only the third twitchable individual in over 30 years.

Black-winged Pratincole: one at Burton Mere Wetlands RSPB (Cheshire) on 3^rd-4^th May was unusually early for this eastern vagrant.

Kentish Plover: In Wales, one was at Ynyslas RSPB on 20^th April, with a further eight migrants in May – at Pegwell Bay (Kent) on 2^nd, Ferrybridge, Portland Harbour (Dorset) on 2^nd-3^rd, Rye Harbour NR (East Sussex) on 3^rd-6^th, Hickling Broad (Norfolk) on 4^th, Cley NWT (Norfolk) on 10^th, a female at Marazion Beach (Cornwall) on 9^th-11^th joined by a male on 11^th-12^th and a male on Beal Sands, Holy Island (Northumberland) on 15^th-19^th.

Greater Sand Plover: In the Outer Hebrides, a female associating with Ringed Plovers visited Stinky Bay, Benbecula, on 8^th-9^th June. It represented only the 5^th for Scotland.

American Golden Plover: In North Cornwall, one visited Davidstow on 17^th-19^th February. In June, singles were on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 3^rd and briefly at Landguard Common (Suffolk) on 11^th.

In Ireland, single birds visited Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 20^th April & 6^th-20^th May, Reenroe, Waterville (County Kerry), on 28^th April to 1^st May, Old Head of Kinsale (County Cork) on 17^th May and Ballycotton (County Cork) on 22^nd May.

Pacific Golden Plover: an adult in full breeding plumage graced Cley NWT North Scrape and Eye Field (Norfolk) from 22^nd-27^th June, whilst in Ireland, one was on Inishkea Island (County Mayo) on 4^th June.

Western Sandpiper: In North Norfolk, the first-winter remained at Cley NWT Reserve until 29^th January, when it was believed to have moved on with Dunlin following the harsh wintry conditions experienced on the reserve. There is an outside chance that it was the bird found in Sweden in early July.

Temminck’s Stint: Very unusually and unseasonally, singles were seen in January at Rushy Common NR (Oxfordshire) on 19^th-27^th and on the Ouse Washes RSPB (Cambs) all month. No more were then recorded until May, when about 80 appeared, followed by a further 5 in June. A marked decline in numbers compared to recent years.

White-rumped Sandpiper: Singles visited Cley NWT (Norfolk) briefly on 11^th May and Holy Island causeway mudflats (Northumberland) on 16^th-21^st May.

Pectoral Sandpiper: In the first case of overwintering in Britain, a confiding first-winter remained (and moulted) at Barassie (Ayrshire) until 16^th January, before moving to near Troon from 29^th January until 12^th February and then returning to Dundonald Camp until 18^th April

Later in early spring, one appeared at Loch Gruinart RSPB, Islay (Argyll), on 5^th March, followed by singles at Stretton Sugwas GP (Herefordshire) on 21^st-23^rd April and again at Gruinart on 26^th-27^th April. May saw a further influx with singles on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 5^th & 15^th, at Exminster Marshes RSPB (Devon) on 9^th & 29^th, on Tiree (Argyll) on 14^th-16^th, at Butt of Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 15^th (and joined by a second bird on 16^th), Goldcliff NR (Gwent) on 16^th, Buckenham Marshes RSPB (Norfolk) on 16^th-19^th, Swillington Ings (West Yorks) on 27^th and Loch of Harray (Orkney) on 27^th. More followed in June with singles at Dawlish Warren NNR (Devon) on 1^st, Walney Island (Cumbria) on 5^th, Loch of Funzie, Fetlar (Shetland), on 14^th & 29^th and on Tiree (Argyll) on 29^th and two together at Beacon Ponds LNR, Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 2^nd.

In Ireland, five appeared in May at Kilcoole NR (County Wicklow) on 15^th-19^th, two at Lough Beg (County Derry) on 20^th-21^st, on Inishkea Islands (County Mayo) on 25^th and at Truska (County Galway) on 30^th. These were followed by four more in June including two at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 4^th-6^th.

Broad-billed Sandpiper: In the Outer Hebrides, an adult was at Loch Bee, South Uist, on 28^th May. With just one record, this was a very poor showing indeed for this Scandinavian bog-nesting vagrant.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper: One visited the Butt of Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 27^th May whilst what was probably the same wandering individual visited Tyninghame Bay, Dunbar (Lothian) on 5^th June, North Somercotes (North Lincs) on 11^th June and at Nosterfield GP (North Yorks) on 15^th June.

Wilson’s Snipe: On the Isles of Scilly, last autumn’s first-winter reappeared on Lower Moors, St Mary’s, briefly on 25^th February.

Great Snipe: one was discovered by a survey worker at West Sedgemoor RSPB (Somerset) on 25^th May. An exceptionally rare straggler in spring.

Long-billed Dowitcher: It was an excellent winter for this Nearctic species with no less than 8 individuals to be found on this side of the Atlantic, including a first-winter at Kidwelly Quay (Carmarthenshire) (until at least 20^th April), a first-winter at Wigtown Harbour (D & G) (from 7^th January to 8^th April) and two first-winters at Lodmoor RSPB (Dorset) from 2^nd-12^th January. What may have been one of the latter reappeared at Lodmoor on 2^nd February before moving to The Fleet at Langton Herring on 3^rd-4^th, then back again to Lodmoor on 5^th March, before perhaps moving east to Needs Ore Point (Hants) briefly; It was back at Abbotsbury Swannery (Dorset) on 12^th April. In Somerset, a first-winter was at Greylake RSPB on 17^th-18^th March before moving to the drained lagoon at Meare Heath, Shapwick, on 15^th, where it was joined back by a second bird from 20^th. Both birds then continued through April and until 2^nd May. Also in May, single summer-plumaged adults appeared at Great Livermere Lake (Suffolk) on 4^th-6^th, Hodbarrow RSPB Reserve (Cumbria) on 9^th-12^th and at Saltholme RSPB (Cleveland) from 24^th May until 17^th June.

Four wintering birds in Ireland included two first-winters at The Cull (County Wexford) from 14th January until 15^th April and singles at the North Slob WR (County Wexford) on 1^st-8^th January, Fahamore (County Kerry) on 13^th-16^th January, in Bannow Bay (County Wexford) from 28^th April until 4^th May and in Victoria Park, Belfast (County Antrim) on 9^th April. May saw further arrivals with singles at Lough Beg (County Derry) on 3^rd and at The Gearagh, Macroom (County Cork) on 18^th.

Greater Yellowlegs: a first-winter, previously present in Northumberland in the autumn of 2011, remained near Loch Fleet (Sutherland) until 14^th January, disappearing at the onset of heavy snow and ice. It made a sudden reappearance in the Dornoch area on 20^th February before moving back to the Loch of Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) on 3^rd March, where it continued to linger until 27^th May. It also visited the north end of the Ythan Estuary on 5^th-12^th and Loch of Mey (Highland) on 28^th May.

Lesser Yellowlegs: In Somerset, a first-winter remained on the Brue Estuary at Burnham-on-Sea until 4^th February with another on the Tamar Estuary at Kingsmill Lake (Cornwall) until 29^th March. In Spring, one appeared at Hereford Quarry (Herefordshire) on 20^th May.

Spotted Sandpiper: The adult was at Chew Valley lake (Avon) from 24^th September 2011 until 26^th January and again intermittently from 12^th-17^th February and throughout March to 21^st April, whilst wintering first-years were at Lyme Regis (Dorset) until 31^st January and on the Plym Estuary at Blaxton Meadows (Devon) until 29^th January. A further first-winter was then identified in Christchurch Harbour (Dorset), frequenting Stanpit Marsh from at least 1^st February until 29^th March.

In June, a first-summer with hardly any spots visited Scaling Dam Reservoir (Cleveland) late evening on 18^th before relocating briefly to Hilfield Park Reservoir (Herts) on 24^th.

In Ireland, a summer-plumaged adult was at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 11^th-12^th May.

Red-necked Phalarope: the female returned to Gloucestershire and the West Midlands in 2012, where it visited Upton Warren NR (Worcs) on 15^th May, Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) on 16^th-17^th May & 5^th & 9^th June and Coombe Hill Meadows NR (Gloucs) from 18^th May to 26^th June. Elsewhere, singles visited Llandindrod Wells (Powys) on 1^st-2^nd May, Old Moor RSPB (South Yorks) on 10^th May, Loch of Harray (Orkney) on 24^th May, Nosterfield GP (North Yorks) on 6^th June, Hornsea Mere (East Yorks) on 11^th June and Brockholes Quarry (Lancs) on 9^th June.

Grey Phalarope: No less than 10 were reported in January, with a confiding first-winter at Farmoor Reservoirs (Oxfordshire) from 18^th-28^th. Later in June, a wonderful female in full breeding plumage graced St John’s Loch (Caithness) from at least 13^th-24^th.

Long-tailed Skua: An adult was again on territory at East Burra (Shetland) on 12^th-21^st May, with two flying NE over inland Drayton Bassett GP (Staffs) on 15^th May. A strong passage involving several thousand birds passed North Uist (Outer Hebrides) on just three days in May.

Laughing Gull: a first-winter was near Dalton-in-Furness (Cumbria) from 17^th-22^nd March, whilst an adult was reported at Severn Beach (Avon) on 1^st May.

Sabine’s Gull: In Ireland, an adult was off Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 24^th April, whilst following some seriously inclement weather originating far offshore in the Atlantic, several were reported in June including an adult off Severn Beach (Avon) on 9^th.

Bonaparte’s Gull: Following a first-winter at Loch Branahuie, Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 20^th January, an adult appeared in Cardiff Bay (Glamorgan) on 22^nd January and was reported intermittently until 26^th February, with a first-winter at the same site from 17^th-25^th February. This latter individual was then relocated on the River Severn at Newnham (Gloucs) from 30^th March to 4^th April. In northern Scotland, a further adult was in the Dunnet Bay area (Caithness) on 25^th-26^th February, whilst in March, a first-winter flew past Newbiggin (Northumberland) on 5^th and an adult visited Stornoway, Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 10^th. In Greater London, a first-winter was on the River Thames off Crossness on 19^th-30^th May, where it was remarkably joined by a first-summer on 26^th-29^th May – both birds constituting the first records for the capital. In Shetland, an adult was at Loch of Tingwall on 30^th May.

In Ireland, an adult remained at Ballygally near Larne (County Antrim) until 11^th April, with further adults noted at Dun Laoghaire (County Dublin) on 5^th February and Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 25^th February.

North American Herring Gull:  In Ireland, single juveniles were identified at Castletown Bearhaven (County Cork) on 14^th January and at Poolbeg (County Dublin) on 30^th January.

Kumlien’s Gull: an unprecedented invasion took place in January with at least 65 being identified amongst the 750 Iceland Gulls that invaded during the month, the Scottish Islands and Ireland accounting for 85% of the occurrencies. In February, a third-winter lingered at Hartlepool Headland (Cleveland) on 4^th-26^th, whils a 2^nd-winter that frequented Dover Harbour (Kent) was the most popular of several that reached the southern half of Britain during the influx. As one would expect, the vast majority were juveniles.

Thayer’s Gull: In Ireland, a juvenile was at Enniskillen Landfill (County Fermanagh) from 1^st January until 7^th February, whilst only the second for Britain was well-received and watched in fields near Elsham (North Lincs) from 3^rd until 18^th April.

Ross’s Gull: In County Down, an adult lingered at Ardglass Harbour (County Down) from 18^th January until 1^st February. It represented only the 20^th record for Ireland.

Caspian Tern: In Aberdeenshire, one flew south past Kinnaird Head, Fraserburgh, on 27^th May.

Gull-billed Tern: One visited Thorne Moors (South Yorks) on 30^th May after being initially seen near Donna Nook (Lincs) the previous day. In June, a second-summer commuted between Llanelli WWT Reserve and the Loughor Estuary (South Wales) from 24^th-27^th before likely relocating to Lodmoor RSPB, Weymouth (Dorset), on 29^th. In Ireland, one was at Ballyneety, near Dungarvan (County Waterford), on 29^th June.

Forster’s Tern: In Ireland, the regular reappearing adult was in Galway Bay off Nimmo’s Pier (County Galway) until at least 20^th January before moving to Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford) for the summer – from 12^th May until at least 17^th June.

White-winged Black Tern: Following one on the Abbey Pool, Tresco (Scilly), on 18^th May, two summer-plumaged adults arrived at Stodmarsh NNR (Kent) on 26^th May with further singles at Saltholme Pools (Cleveland) on 27^th May, Ranworth Broad (Norfolk) on 14^th June, Swillington Ings (West Yorks) on 18^th June (and at nearby Fairburn Ings RSPB on 19^th-20^th), Leighton Moss RSPB (Lancs) on 23^rd June and Grove Ferry NR (Kent) on 25^th June. A single summer-plumaged bird then moved from Staines Reservoirs (Surrey) on 25^th June to Cotswold Water Park (Wilts) on 27^th and Shapwick Heath NNR (Somerset) on 28^th.

Snowy Owl: In Ireland, an immature male was at Altikeeragh NR (County Derry) from 1^st-13^th February with the returning adult female at Ballycastle (County Mayo) on at least 13^th February.

In the Outer Hebrides, the usual St Kilda male reappeared for its summer sojourn at Grenitote, North Uist, on 14^th May and was then seen regularly until 11^th June before moving back to Kilda on 12^th.

Eurasian Scops Owl: On St Mary’s (Scilly), one was seen briefly at dusk on Higher Moors on both 25^th and 26^th March.

Palm Dove: a presumed escape visited an Ipswich garden (Suffolk) from at least 21^st-24^th April. Ship-assistance is a real possibility with this North African and Middle Eastern speciality.

Alpine Swift: A typical scattering of March records but none twitchable included singles over The Lizard (Cornwall) on 18^th, Butt of Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 24^th-25^th, Havant (Hants) on 29^th, and on Lundy Island (North Devon) on 28^th-29^th. No more until three at the end of April with singles at Lowestoft (Suffolk) on 28^th-29^th, over Canvey Island (Essex) on 29^th and at Berry Head, Brixham (South Devon) on 30^th – and just two in May – over Theddlethorpe St Helen & Huttoft (Lincs) on 11^th and over Cranham Golf Course, Upminster (Essex), on 13^th. In fact, we had to wait until the end of June for a twitchable one, with a bird in heavy moult at Bempton and Buckton Cliffs (East Yorks) from 29^th June into July. One was also seen over Blakeney Point and Cley (Norfolk) on 30^th June.

In Ireland, singles were seen at Fanore (County Clare) on 24^th March, Kilcoole (County Wicklow) on 7^th & 24^th April and at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 28^th June.

Little Swift: Vying with the Cream-coloured Courser and Yorkshire Roller for bird of the year was a spectacularly low-flying juvenile at New Brighton Promenade (Wirral) on 22^nd-24^th June. It was then seen erratically and rather distantly over the town until 29^th.

European Bee-eater: A major influx with about 30 recorded in May, with singles at many sites from Scilly to Cumbria and from Kent to Cleveland, twos in East Sussex, Norfolk, East Yorks and North Wales and a party of 6 that was seen in Kent, Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk. Most popular was a confiding bird in the Cley and Wiveton area from 18^th-21^st May. Perhaps 25 continued to linger into June but were never seen anything other than fly-bys, including 5 over Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 4^th, 4 over Climping Beach (West Sussex) on 14^th and a flock of 5 at various sites in East Sussex on 17^th-18^th.

In Ireland, one was at Ram Head (County Waterford) on 21^st May.

European Roller: Following one seen in flight near Haldon Forest (Devon) on 1^st May, one was seen at Spurn Point and Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 29^th May, before being relocated in a recently tilled field just north of Aldbrough (East Yorks) on 31^st. This adult male then became the centre of attention for over two weeks – being both stunningly beautiful and confiding – last being noted on 14^th June. Less than five miles away, in Hornsea, a second bird was reported from wires on 4^th & 6^th June.

Eurasian Hoopoe: In winter, one remained in Lowestoft Harbour (Suffolk) until 2^nd January and another was noted near Pendeen (Cornwall) on 25^th January. In early spring, one arrived in Cornwall at Sennen on 23^rd March to be quickly followed by 11 more before the month’s end. Elsewhere, a further 18 were reported in March, with 14 in April, 35 in May and 3 in June.

Wryneck: early arrivals included singles on Bryher (Scilly) on 25^th March, at Ottery St Mary (Devon) on 30^th-31^st March, Ewhurst (East Sussex) on 9^th April and Cam (Gloucs) on 17^th April. At least 22 then arrived from 19^th April, most of which were in Shetland, Orkney and along the NE coast of Britain, with a further influx in May involving at least 50 individuals. The last noted was one at Sumburgh Head (Shetland) on 3^rd June.

Calandra Lark: One flew over Sandwich Bay (Kent) on 5^th May. Despite turning up more frequently in recent years, there is yet to be a twitchable individual on the UK mainland.

Greater Short-toed Lark: In addition to the four that reached Scilly in May, singles were at Traeth Crigyll, Rhosneigr (Anglesey) on 2^nd-3^rd May, Lundy Island (Devon) on 12^th May, Fair Isle on 21^st May, the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 27^th-29^th May and at Baltasound, Unst (Shetland), on 31^st May. Two birds then made a very protracted stay on Lundy Island being present from at least 2^nd-24^th June, with late spring records in Ireland from Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 3^rd June and at The Cull (County Wexford) on 23^rd-24^th June.

Crested Lark: In Kent, one visited Dungeness Power Station on 7^th May. Kent continues to monopolise where records of this species are concerned.

Shore Lark: A total of just 15 birds were seen in January in Kent, Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk, including up to 8 on Havergate Island (Suffolk) from 15^th and 4 in Holkham Bay (Norfolk), whilst a more noteworthy record involved a single at Hayling Oyster Beds (Hants) from 15^th January until 16^th February. April saw a hint of passage, with 7 at Donna Nook (Lincs) on 1^st-2^nd, 2 at Filey (North Yorks) on 2^nd-13^th, 3 at Benacre (Suffolk) on 5^th-6^th, 2 at Titchwell RSPB (Norfolk) on 8^th and one at Cley (Norfolk) on 13^th-22^nd, whilst May saw further arrivals with 2 at Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) on 7^th and singles on Fair Isle on 19^th-20^th, North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 20^th and Foula (Shetland) on 31^st.

Red-rumped Swallow: It was an excellent spring for this southern species with singles at Castletown (Highland) on 9^th April, High Eske NR, Beverley (East Yorks) on 21^st, Far Ings NR (North Lincs) on 28^th-29^th, Bowesfield Marsh (Cleveland) on 30^th and Gibraltar Point (Lincs) on 30^th. A widespread influx then occurred in May involving at least 50 individuals, including up to 5 on Scilly and 3 as far north as Shetland. Four more were seen in Ireland.

Richard’s Pipit: In January, singles were at Wyke Regis (Dorset) all month, Snettisham RSPB (Norfolk) on 9^th and at Porthgwarra (Cornwall) on 17^th, with the former staying on site until 24^th April. These were followed in spring by singles at Kelling Hard (Norfolk) from 29^th March until 19^th April, Lundy Island (Devon) from 5^th-12^th May and on St Mary’s (Scilly) on 6^th-7^th May.

In Ireland, one was at Killard NR (County Down) from 2^nd January until 23^rd March.

Tawny Pipit: One flew west over Dungeness (Kent) on 26^th April, one spent the day at Landguard NR (Suffolk) on 6^th May and brief flyovers were noted at Worthing (West Sussex) on 20^th May and Capel-le-Ferne (Kent) on 28^th May.

Red-throated Pipit: In Gloucestershire, a summer-plumaged bird visited New Passage (Avon) briefly on 22^nd April, whilst in May, singles were on The Lizard (Cornwall) on 8^th, at Scourie (Highland) on 18^th, on St Mary’s (Scilly) on 19^th-20^th and on Foula (Shetland) on 30^th.

Citrine Wagtail: In Norfolk, single males were at West Runton on 30^th April and Holme Golf Course on 4^th May, with a first-summer male at Thornwick Bay, Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 19^th-20^th May whilst a female visited Ballycotton Marsh (County Cork) on 5^th May.

Bohemian Waxwing: At least 650 were reported in January and February 2012, most popular being a flock of 70 near Ipswich (Suffolk) for several weeks. Birds lingered due to the poor weather, with a flock of 25 remaining in Sheffield (South Yorks) until 5^th May.

Thrush Nightingale: One trapped and ringed at Weybourne (Norfolk) on 13^th May was followed by a more typical batch of Scottish arrivals, including singles on the Isle of May (Fife) on 19^th & 30^th-31^st May and on Fair Isle on 20^th-22^nd and 25^th May. The male remained on the Isle of May until 2^nd June.

Bluethroat: In Ireland, a wintering male remained at Clonea Strand, near Dungarvan (County Waterford) until 6^th January. This was later followed by a red-spotted male on Tory Island (County Donegal) on 20^th-21^st May.

In spring, white-spotted males occurred at Woodhorn (Northumberland) on 7^th-8^th April, with two at Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 8^th April, whilst 35 red-spotted males arrived in May including a singing male inland at Doxey Marshes NR (Staffs) on 20^th May. The last of spring included males on the Isle of may (Fife) on 1^st June and at Exnaboe (Shetland) on 11^th June.

Red-flanked Bluetail: The third for Ireland, a female, was well-watched at Galley Head (County Cork) on 26^th March whilst the first for the Outer Hebrides, a first-winter, was trapped and ringed at Uigen, Lewis, on 31^st March and retrapped on 4^th & 7^th April. With this species now, it is more of ‘where has it not been recorded’ than where it has – a most exceptional change in occurrence pattern.

Siberian Stonechat: In Ireland, a female was present at South Slob NR (County Wexford) from 5^th-20^th March, whilst in April, single males appeared on Holy Island (Northumberland) on 28^th and Cromer (Norfolk) on 30^th.

Black-eared Wheatear: A first-summer female of the western form was photographed at Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) briefly on 12^th June.

Desert Wheatear: two first-winter males successfully overwintered in Britain including a bird at Newbiggin (Northumberland) until 3^rd January and another at Bempton Cliffs RSPB (East Yorkshire) until 9^th February. These are not the first to do so however, at least 7 of the previous 135 recorded making it somewhat surprisingly into this month.

River Warbler: On Fair Isle, one lingered in the Bird Observatory garden from 11^th June into July.

Savi’s Warbler: The first of the year involved a reeling male at Steart (Somerset) on 21^st April, with 5 more in May (at Rutland Water, Leics, on 4^th-8^th, Strumpshaw Fen RSPB, Norfolk, on 8^th-21^st, at Blacktoft Sands RSPB (East Yorks) on 9^th-31^st, Walberswick Marshes (Suffolk) on 12^th and Wilstone Reservoir, Tring (Herts) on 20^th-21^st) and another in June (at Exminster Marshes RSPB, Devon, on 21^st-23^rd). The Blacktoft male remained on territory until at least 28^th June.

A reeling male was also discovered in Ireland – at Lingstown Reedbed, Tacumshin (County Wexford), from 25^th-30^th June.

Marsh Warbler: An outstanding year with over 45 recorded between 23^rd May and the end of June. Breeding was suspected at seven sites.

Great Reed Warbler: Singing males were at Weston-super-Mare Sewage Treatment Works (Avon) from 19^th May until 2^nd June, Radipole Lake RSPB (Dorset) on 22^nd-24^th May, Cley NWT East Bank (Norfolk) on 30^th May, Gunwalloe Fishing Cove, Lizard (Cornwall), on 3^rd-6^th June and at Boddam Voe (Shetland) on 28^th June.

Paddyfield Warbler: In West Sussex, an overwintering male remained in Phragmites at Pagham Harbour’s Breach Pool until 18^th March. Towards the end of its stay and on warm sunny mornings, it sang briefly.

On 9^th June, one was trapped and ringed on North Ronaldsay (Orkney), where it remained until next day, followed by yet another one trapped and ringed in the Fair Isle Bird Observatory garden on 30^th June, this bird making a protracted stay well into July.

Blyth’s Reed Warbler: In North Norfolk, a very elusive male sang from the overgrown ‘pit’ at Warham Greens on 9^th June. Although still singing towards midnight, it had disappeared by first light next day.

Icterine Warbler: Following the first reported on 24^th May, a total of 34 arrived in May including 20 on Shetland, 4 on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) and 8 along the east coast from North Norfolk north to Northumberland. At least 23 more appeared in June but again mainly in Orkney and Shetland.

Melodious Warbler: Most popular (and welcome) was a singing male in Greater London at Leyton from 16^th-18^th May. Otherwise, singles occurred at Dungeness (Kent) on 1^st May, Northward Hill RSPB (Kent) on 16^th May, St Mary’s (Scilly) on 19^th May, Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 3^rd-5^th June, Isle of May (Fife) on 7^th June and at Totronald, Coll (Argyll), on 8^th June.

Western Subalpine Warbler: an early male appeared in Eccles-on-Sea (Norfolk) on 29^th March but was not followed by any others until 9^th May, when a first-summer male was trapped and ringed at Portland Bill Bird Observatory (Dorset). Single females were then noted on Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 14^th May, Weybourne (Norfolk) on 20^th May, St Abb’s Head (Borders) on 20^th May, Pool of Virkie (Shetland) on 22^nd May and on Fair Isle on 26^th May.

Off North Devon, an adult and a first-summer male were trapped and ringed on Lundy Island on 30^th May, the former remaining until 2^nd. A female was also at Quendale (Shetland) on 1^st-2^nd June.

Eastern Subalpine Warbler: Male albistriata were recorded on Whalsay (Shetland) on 21^st May and at Balephuil, Tiree (Argyll), on 28^th May.

Western Orphean Warbler: Far and away the rarest species recorded in Britain this spring, a first-summer male trapped and ringed at Hartlepool Headland (Cleveland) on 29^th May. The sixth for Britain and the first twitchable since 1981, it was no surprise that just over 900 observers connected before it disappeared to roost half an hour before dusk.

Greenish Warbler: A good spring with singles, some of which were singing males, at Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 25^th May, Landguard NR (Suffolk) on 26^th May, Northward Hill RSPB (Kent) on 26^th May, Walney Island (Cumbria) on 4^th June, Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 8^th June, on the Isle of May (Fife) on 6^th-9^th June (with two present on 6^th) and on Bardsey again on 30^th June – eight in total.

In Ireland, one visited Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 30^th May.

Arctic Warbler: In Shetland, an adult was trapped and ringed at Skaw, Whalsay, on 27^th June. Oddly, Shetland has attracted quite a few midsummer records of this boreal species over the years.

Yellow-browed Warbler: A dozen were seen in January and February, including 2 in Somerset, 3 in Devon, 4 in Cornwall and 2 on the Isles of Scilly. Most popular however, and easier to see, was one at Worthing (West Sussex) from 22^nd February to 28^th March, whilst one in Warndon village (Worcs) from 10^th March until 21^st April was occasionally heard singing. Waxham (Norfolk) produced another on 30^th April, with one at Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 3^rd-4^th May and a singing male in Wells Woods (Norfolk) on 8^th May.

Hume’s Leaf Warbler: A wintering first-year was present near Wyke Regis (Dorset) until 26^th April but remained particularly elusive throughout.

Dusky Warbler: On the Isles of Scilly, one remained in Lower Moors, St Mary’s, until 16^th January, before relocating to neighbouring Harry’s Walls until 12^th February. A different bird was identified on Tresco, also on 12^th February.

Iberian Chiffchaff: After a number of false starts, we finally recorded an ibericus that both looked and sounded the part in May – at Kenidjack Valley, St Just (Cornwall), from 28^th. It sang daily until 21^st June. A further singing male was then recorded in Somerset at Porlock from 6^th June into July.

Red-breasted Flycatcher: Singles were on Blakeney Point (Norfolk) on 2^nd May, Fair Isle on 10^th, the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 18^th & 26^th, Warham Greens (Norfolk) on 20^th-22^nd, Yell (Shetland) on 21^st, Coquet Island (Northumberland) on 22^nd, Collieston (Aberdeenshire) on 22^nd-23^rd, on the Isle of May (Fife) on 24^th, North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 23^rd, Dungeness (Kent) on 29^th, Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 6^th June and on the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 16^th June.

In Ireland, a male was on Dursey Island (County Cork) on 26^th May.

Collared Flycatcher: A belated first for Ireland involved a female on Tory Island (County Donegal) on 29^th May.

White-headed Long-tailed Tit: In West Yorkshire, two were in gardens at Luddenden Dean from 10^th January to 20^th February.

Penduline Tit: In Somerset, two were at Portbury Wharf on 15^th January, whilst in Kent, a male reappeared on the ARC Pit, Dungeness, from 20^th February until 1^st March. Two more were seen at Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) on 26^th March & 6^th April, with a further reported at Leighton Moss RSPB (Lancs) on 7^th April.

Short-toed Treecreeper: In Kent, one was at Samphire Hoe CP, Dover, on 10^th March. Again, like Crested Lark. Kent monopolises somewhat with this species being so close to the Continent.

Golden Oriole: A male arrived at Lakenheath RSPB (Suffolk) on 26^th April, before being joined in early May by a second individual. Much more showy and confiding was a cracking male at Snettisham CP (Norfolk) on 29^th-30^th April, with further males at Reculver and Sandwich Bay (Kent) on 30^th April. A strong passage continued into May with the Isles of Scilly hosting at least 20 individuals, whilst June saw a shift to the Northern Isles, with 3 on Shetland.

Single males also reached Ireland – on Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 4^th-6^th May and at Loop Head (County Clare) on 3^rd June.

Red-backed Shrike: Just under 100 birds arrived in May from 6^th, the vast majority on Shetland and along the East Coast from Suffolk to Aberdeenshire. A further 35 were recorded in June.

Woodchat Shrike: The first of the spring appeared in SW Ireland – in County Waterford at Ardmore on 24^th March. Over a month later, the first arrived in Britain – at Cape Cornwall (Cornwall) on 30^th April – to be followed by 20 more in May including up to 6 on Scilly, 4 in West Cornwall and 3 in South Devon. Elsewhere, singles were noted at Keyhaven (Hants) on 12^th-13^th, Tenby (Pembs) on 17^th, Martin Down (Hants) on 20^th-21^st, Culverwell, Portland (Dorset), on 23^rd and at Maghull (Lancs) on 30^th.

Seven more appeared in June with a first-summer female at Winterton North Dunes (Norfolk) from 1^st-14^th, a first-summer male on Bardsey Island on 3^rd, a male at Walberswick Common (Suffolk) on 10^th, a first-summer female at Great Ormes Head (Clwyd) on 10^th-14^th, a male at Skirza, John O’Groats (Caithness) on 13^th, a male at Gunton Warren (Suffolk) on 19^th-20^th and an adult male at Smeatonthorpe (North Yorks) on 26^th.

In Ireland, singles were at Carnsore Point (County Wexford) on 18^th-19^th May and on Sherkin Island (County Cork) from 30^th May until 9^th June.

House Crow: In Ireland, the long-staying ship-assisted adult remained in Cobh (County Cork) throughout the review period

Rose-coloured Starling: wintering birds are a regular phenomenon so single first-winters at Newquay (Cornwall) on 7^th January, St Columb Minor (Cornwall) on 9^th January and at Muirhead, Troon (Ayrshire), from 28^th January were not unexpected, the latter remaining until at least 24^th March. A first-winter reappeared again in Holyhead (Anglesey) on 25^th February and showed daily until 7^th April, with another much-watched male frequenting Hordle village (Hants) from 29^th February until 16^th April. Further adults were noted at Selsey Bill (West Sussex) on 6^th-12^th May, Mullion Cove, The Lizard (Cornwall), on 18^th May, Landguard NR (Suffolk) on 25^th May and at Arlington Reservoir (East Sussex) on 27^th May whilst an influx of at least 26 birds took place in June including a cracking male in gardens at Rhos-on-Sea (Clwyd) from 16^th-24^th. Others were at Langney Point, Eastbourne (East Sussex) from 2^nd-7^th June, Gillingham (Kent) on 3^rd, Higham (Kent) on 4^th, Martin’s Haven (Pembs) on 5^th, Upper Hollesley (Suffolk) on 8^th, Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 9^th, Hastings (East Sussex) on 9^th-10^th, Golspie (Sutherland) on 10^th, Hartburn (Cleveland) on 10^th, Edwinstowe (Notts) on 10^th, Severn Beach (Avon) on 10^th-11^th, Whitley Bay (Northumberland) on 16^th, Pensarn (Clwyd) on 16^th-17^th, Minions (Cornwall) on 17^th, Valley (Anglesey) on 18^th-24^th, Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) on 20^th-25^th, Scratby (Norfolk) on 21^st and at Llangefni (Anglesey) on 25^th.

Four more reached Ireland in June with singles at Spanish Point (County Clare) on 13^th, Skelligs Harbour (County Kerry) on 15^th, Wicklow (County Wicklow) on 18^th-20^th and at Mizen Head (County Cork) on 24^th.

Spanish Sparrow: In Hampshire, a male frequented a Calshot garden from early December 2011 until at least 23^rd March, constituting only the eighth record for Britain.

Scandinavian Arctic Redpoll: In North Norfolk, a first-winter remained at Titchwell Marsh RSPB until 18^th March whilst another frequented a Kelling garden from at least 8^th-25^th January; a further first-year was trapped and ringed at Santon Downham (Norfolk) on 4^th March.

Hornemann’s Arctic Redpoll: Singles were noted at Sanaigmore, Islay (Argyll) on 10^th April, near Lochaline (Highland) on 16^th April and in Ireland at Dog Bay, Murvey (County Galway) on 13^th April. On 4^th June, a worn first-year was trapped and ringed on Fair Isle.

Trumpeter Finch: A female was on St Kilda (Outer Hebrides) on 10^th June. The status of this largely sedentary species has dramatically changed in recent years with it no longer being the mega-rare it once was..

Common Rosefinch: No less than 31 occurred in May, over half of course being discovered on Shetland. Less usual was one in Ireland – a singing male at Meenbannad (County Donegal) on 29^th May. At least 12 more occurred in June.

Northern Waterthrush: Incredibly, the first-winter first seen in August 2011, survived the winter on the Isles of Scilly and was seen regularly on Lower Moors until 10^th January. It then went missing but reappeared in February, showing intermittently up until 16^th April. The longest stayer ever.

Common Yellowthroat: in what was an exceptional winter for Nearctic passerines in the UK, a cracking first-winter male was eventually identified at Rhiwderin, near Newport (Gwent), where it frequented the hedgerows and bracken fronds there from 10^th-29^th February. It represented the eleventh for Britain and second for Wales.

Slate-coloured Junco: First seen on 24^th December 2011, this first-winter male was not identified from photographs until a week later. It chose Hampshire to its liking and like the Spanish Sparrow aforementioned, was almost certainly a stowaway from Southampton Docks nearby. It inhabited a woodland glade at Hawkhill Inclosure in the New Forest with Reed Buntings and Chaffinches until at least 11^th March and represented the third for the county.

White-throated Sparrow: a bright individual was photographed visiting a garden lawn at Broadford, Isle of Skye (Highland), on 20^th May.

Rustic Bunting: a male visited Heysham NR (Lancs) briefly on 14^th March before flying off strongly NE. Further males then visited Filey NCCP (North Yorks) on 21^st May, North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 23^rd May and on Inner Farne (Northumberland) from 31^st May until 1^st June. A small but fairly typical influx on Shetland involved a singing male at Sumburgh Head on 24^th-27^th May, a male at Scousburgh on 26^th, a male on Foula on 21^st-23^rd and a female on Foula on 23^rd-24^th.

Little Bunting: a male was trapped and ringed at South Milton Ley (South Devon) on 19^th March and remained faithful at the feeders there until 17^th April. In Kent, one was trapped and ringed at Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory on 30^th April staying until 5^th May, with further spring migrants at St Mary’s (Scilly) on 19^th May and on Foula (Shetland) on 27^th May.

Ortolan Bunting: an early migrant male appeared at Dungeness (Kent) on 30^th April to be followed by four further records in May – on Fair Isle on 9^th-10^th, Whalsay (Shetland) on 9^th-18^th, Wester Quarff (Shetland) on 13^th and on Holy Island (Northumberland) briefly on 20^th.

Black-headed Bunting: A male visited Bryher (Scilly) on 28^th May only to be followed by a very showy male on Shetland at Gloup, Yell, from 29^th May until 1^st June. Two different males were then discovered at garden feeders in South Wales – at Godre’r-Craig, near Ystalyfera, on 17^th June and at Porthyrhyd, Carmarthenshire, on 18^th-24^th June, whilst a female was identified at Grenitote, North Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 19^th June.

Lee G R Evans, 9 July 2012 – LGREUK400@aol.com

UK Bird Sightings 2012 – Rare Bird Round-up

This is the second part of my Annual Report on Rare Birds in 2012, the first part covering the months January-June being published in the Summer 2012 issue on pages 95-105. At that stage, no less than 384 species has been recorded by 1^st July. In the six months that followed, a further 62 species occurred, including at least two New to Britain and Ireland, culminating in a 6^th-best 446 species.

The latter half of the year proved as equally exciting as the first, with July and August yielding some great seabird movements and rare waders such as Stilt Sandpiper. The best birds of course were largely single observer, including an Eleonora’s Falcon in West Cornwall and a Black Skimmer off Ireland, but Rainham’s Baillon’s Crake made up for any disappointment and two twitchable juvenile Short-billed Dowitchers certainly whetted the appetite. Again, late September and October were dominated by short-staying mega-rares, with both Magnolia Warbler and eastern Kingbird slipping away for the high listers. The worst was even yet to come when a Pale-legged Leaf warbler spent just one day on Portland. That’s life I am afraid.

Anyway, the second half Systematic List is exhaustive – work out how many species would have been new for you….

Pacific Diver: In Cornwall, the regular adult returned to Mount’s Bay, Penzance, on 5^th December, being seen almost daily until 16^th.

White-billed Diver: Singles flew north past Flamborough Head (North Yorks) on 25^th October and 28^th November and Whitburn CP (County Durham) on 27^th September

Pied-billed Grebe: In Ireland, one was at Lough Baun, Louisburgh (County Mayo), from 29^th October until 4^th November, whilst perhaps the same relocated to Loch na Bagh, Smerclate, South Uist, in the Outer Hebrides from 26th November until 8^th December.

Fea’s Soft-plumaged Petrel: In Ireland, one flew west past Mizen Head (County Cork) on 16^th July, followed by two off Carnsore Point (County Wexford) on 18^th August and then further singles off Cape Clear island (County Cork) on 19^th August and Galley Head (County Cork) on 29^th August. Yet another went west off Mizen Head on 5^th October.

In Cornwall, one flew west past Porthgwarra early evening on 24^th August, whilst on 26^th September, one flew south past Fraserburgh (Aberdeenshire).

Cory’s Shearwater: Bang on cue, the first 20 or more were seen on 16^th July, passing both Scilly and Porthgwarra (Cornwall), with a stronger passage in SW Ireland, including 35 past Mizen Head (County Cork) on 31^st July. Numbers then dramatically increased in August with no less than 320 reported in SW Britain during the month, including 115 past Gwennap Head, Porthgwarra, on 3^rd and 18 past Pendeen Watchpoint (Cornwall) on 25^th. These numbers were absolutely dwarfed by those passing Ireland during the same period, with at least 1,500 passing Galley Head (County Cork) on 2^nd-3^rd and over 400 at several other West Coast locations. On 10^th September, a further 9 flew west past Porthgwarra (the same day 30 were logged from a Scilly pelagic trip), with up to 3 different birds reported in the southern North Sea on 23^rd September, being seen offshore of Suffolk, Norfolk and East Yorkshire. A few late birds were reported in October, with singles off Beesands Ley (South Devon) on 1^st, Skinningrove (Cleveland) on 9^th, Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 10^th and Thorpeness (Suffolk) on 11^th.

Great Shearwater: the first of the year and autumn flew west past Start Point (South Devon) on 2^nd July. Six others quickly followed, including one past Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 13^th July, with a major movement in SW Ireland on 31^st July, when 14 flew west past Mizen Head (County Cork). A further 65 were logged in August, peaking at 22 past Porthgwarra (Cornwall) on 3^rd and 11 past Pendeen Watchpoint (Cornwall) on 25^th. In the North Sea, singles were seen passing Cley Coastguards and Sheringham (Norfolk) on 26^th August, Hartlepool Headland (Cleveland) on 27^th August and Flamborough Head (East Yorkshire) on 31^st August. Along with the Cory’s Shearwater passage, SW Ireland also recorded large numbers of Great Shearwaters passing in August, with 60 past Old Head of Kinsale (County Cork) on 3^rd. In September, just 10 were seen between 4^th & 18^th, including two past Pendeen on 11^th and further singles past Portland Bill (Dorset and Porthgwarra on 30^th.

Yelkouan Shearwater: After some good years for this species in West Cornwall, the only record this year was of a single north past Whitburn Steel (County Durham) on 31^st August.

North Atlantic Little Shearwater: In Ireland, singles flew past Toe Head (County Cork) on 19^th August and Bridges of Ross (County Clare) on 27^th August.

Wilson’s Storm Petrel: Joe Pender’s Scilly Pelagic trips have the monopoly with this seabird these days with the SW Approaches yielding at least 3 in July, including 2 on 2^nd, 3 on 12^th and singles on 16^th and 19^th, and 2 more in August on 2^nd. Further singles were also seen from the MV Scillonian, between Penzance and St Mary’s, on 16^th July and from a pelagic 14 miles NW of Newquay (Cornwall) on 25^th July.

In Ireland, singles flew past Galley Head (County Cork) on 22^nd July, Bridges of Ross (County Clare) on 17^th August, Toe Head (County Cork) on 19^th August and Galley Head (County Cork) on 21^st August, with two seen from a pelagic trip off Loop Head (County Clare) on 12^th August and at least three from a Pelagic west of the Blasket Islands (County Kerry) on 17^th August. A very late individual was seen off Cloughmore Head (County Galway) on 4^th October.

Leach’s Storm Petrel: One was inland at Pennington Flash Country Park (Gtr Manchester) on 13^th September.

Black-crowned Night Heron: In Hampshire, the second-summer was again at Lower Pennington Fishponds from 3^rd-19^th August.

In Ireland, one was reported near Bandon (County Cork) on 26^th July

Cattle Egret: One visited Elmley Marshes RSPB (Kent) on 16^th August, with single juveniles at Abbotsbury (Dorset) on 24^th-27^th August and Dungeness RSPB (Kent) on 30^th August. In September, singles were at Northwick Wharf (Gloucs) on 9^th, near Fort William (Highland) on 23^rd, this latter individual relocating to the Outer Hebrides shortly later, where it visited Kilmuir, South Uist, on 26^th-27^th and Balranald RSPB, North Uist, on 28^th-30^th and later Loch nam Magarlan, North Uist, until 4^th October.

Elsewhere, one was seen at various sites in South Devon in October and at Catcott Lows NR (Somerset Levels) on 11^th, with that in Devon at Colyford Common, Seaton, from 1^st-27^th November. One was then present at Westhay Moor (Somerset) on 27^th-28^th December, moving to nearby Mudgeley until 31^st.

In Ireland, one was at Strabane (County Tyrone) from 2^nd-11^th November, with another at St Johnston (County Donegal) organic piggery from 14^th December into 2013.

Squacco Heron: The breeding plumaged adult continued to grace the Welney Washes WWT (Norfolk) until 1^st July.

Great White Egret: This species continues to go from strength to strength following this year’s first breeding attempt in Somerset where two different nests fledged a total of four young. Around 50 different individuals were logged in the UK between July and December, including at least 8 on the Somerset Levels, up to 7 in the Dungeness Area (Kent), 8 in Mid & South Wales and 7 in NW England.

In Ireland, one visited the River Slaney near Bunclody (County Wexford) on 28^th August

Purple Heron: In Kent, the adult remained at Stodmarsh NNR until 1^st July and was then replaced by a juvenile in the Stour Valley from 25^th July until 30^th August. A further adult was then seen in flight over Oare Marshes NR (Kent) on 30^th July, with further juveniles at Coombe Hill Meadows NR (Gloucs) from 28^th-30^th July, on the Mepal Washes (Cambs) from 30^th July until 5^th September and reported from Fritton Marshes (Norfolk) on 15^th August. In October, juveniles were present at Radipole Lake RSPB, Weymouth (Dorset), from 6^th-27^th and at College Reservoir, Falmouth (Cornwall), from 17^th-22^nd, that at Radipole reappearing in November from 1^st-5^th.

Black Stork: No twitchable Black Storks this year but brief appearances by this species at Loch Fleet at Littleferry, Golspie (Sutherland) on 6^th July and in flight over Bignor Hill (West Sussex) on 17^th July.

In Ireland, one flew over Ballyvaughan (County Clare) on 12^th July

White Stork: Discounting some fairly obvious local escapees, a party of 3 continued to linger along the South Coast from the spring frequenting flooded food-rich fields at Templecombe (Somerset) from 14^th-19^th July. They were then seen flying over Rampisham (Dorset) on 20^th July before being rejoined by a fourth individual at Thorney Moor, near Muchelney (Somerset Levels) on 27^th-29^th July. The flock then relocated to Wet Moor, near Langport (Somerset), from 9^th-22^nd August, feasting on fish and other prey marooned by receding floodwaters, before being seen near Dorchester (Dorset) on 23^rd August.

Sacred Ibis: The three escaped individuals, none of which were ringed,  continued to tour the UK throughout July to December.

Glossy Ibis: Up to a dozen oversummered, including singles at Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) until 15^th July, Pagham Harbour North Wall (West Sussex) until 20^th July, Ham Walls RSPB (Somerset) until 24^th July, the Ouse Washes RSPB (Cambs) until 25^th October and that at Marloes Mere (Pembrokeshire) all year.

Elsewhere, Glossy Ibises were recorded on Skokholm Island (Pembs) on 8^th July, Farlington Marsh Lagoon (Hants) on 15^th July, Grove Ferry, Stodmarsh NNR (Kent) on 17^th July, Holland Haven CP (Essex) on 17^th July, The Naze (Essex) on 25^th-30^th July, Welney WWT (Norfolk) on 22^nd & 28^th September and at Hesketh Out Marsh (Lancs) on 2^nd September.

October saw yet another influx of birds from Coto Donana (Spain), with independent parties of 7 and 8 birds arriving in West Cornwall at Windmill Farm (Lizard) and Marazion Marsh RSPB Reserve respectively on 6^th, with all 15 birds then flying over Land’s End at midday, at least 7 of which remaining in Sennen Brew Pool water meadows until at least 23^rd. Elsewhere, one flew south over Bosley Reservoir (Cheshire) on 4^th, one visited Rainham Marshes RSPB (London) on 14^th-15^th, one was in Poole Harbour (Dorset) on 21^st, a first-winter was at Aveton Gifford (South Devon) on 21^st, the Poole bird was at Keyhaven Marshes (Hants) on 24^th and back at Hengistbury Head (Dorset) on 25^th. What may have been the same bird was at Bickerley Common Floods, south of Ringwood (Hants), from 2^nd December into January 2013.

Ireland saw an additional three birds oversummer (in Counties Wexford & Cork) with those at Timoleague (County Cork) and Tacumshin (County Wexford) being seen until the end of the year.

Eurasian Spoonbill: The breeding population continued to do well and swell the numbers present in the country during the summer, with no less than 70 birds being present in East Anglia in July. Noteworthy were 2 on the Ythan Estuary (Aberdeenshire) on 26^th July and a juvenile at Broom GP (Beds) on 31^st August. As autumn progressed, the Poole Harbour (Dorset) flock increased to 19 birds by 7^th October, whilst Titchwell RSPB (Norfolk) still held 11 early in the month and Elmley Marshes RSPB at least 10.

Snow Goose: A flock of 13 Lesser Snow Geese was seen in Lancashire on 29^th August and next day in Gloucestershire and had probably wandered from the naturalised population in Germany. An adult white morph of unknown origin was then with Greylag Geese on Lewis (Outer Hebrides) from 6^th-8^th September. Two white morphs were with Greylag Geese on Islay (Argyll) from 3^rd October, perhaps the two later present on North Uist (Outer Hebrides) from 15^th October into the New Year. The regular Stromness adult was with Greylag Geese in Orkney from 25^th November, with blue morph birds on Islay at Loch Gruinart RSPB (Argyll) on 1^st November and at Skinnet, near Halkirk (Highland) on 30^th November.

In Ireland, the regular blue morph was at Lough MacNean from Late October, with a white morph with Greenland White-fronted Geese at Sheskinmore Lough (County Donegal) from 7^th November into the New Year.

Ross’s Snow Goose: For the first winter in a long time, not one genuine Ross’s Goose arrived with the Pink-footed Geese this autumn. The white morph adult consorting with Barnacle Geese did show up, moving from Breydon Water (Norfolk) on 31^st October to Waxham (Norfolk) on 4^th-7^th November, before spending the rest of the year in the Yare Valley. A further bird with less than good credentials also appeared at Loaningfoot (Dumfries & Galloway) on 24^th November.

Vagrant Canada Goose: At least 10 Richardson’s Canada Geese were discovered in Scotland and Ireland in October, the majority being regularly returning adults with Barnacle Geese, including up to 4 on Islay (Argyll) and 3 in the Lissadell area (County Mayo). Several Todd’s Canada Geese were also identified, including singles in Dumfries & Galloway, Cumbria and on Islay. A further hutchinsii in North Norfolk ranged between Kelling, Cley and Blakeney all month before relocating to Lincolnshire in the New Year.

Red-breasted Goose: An adult, presumed to be a regular bird, was with Dark-bellied Brent Geese at South Swale NR (North Kent) from 14^th-23^rd October before moving south and west to Hampshire, where it was seen at Milford-on-Sea on 24^th and Farlington Marshes from 25^th, remaining at the latter site until the turn of the year. A further adult also accompanied Barnacle Geese on Islay (Argyll) from 21^st October into January 2013 with another at Whitrigg (Cumbria) on 16^th-18^th November and at Cardurnock (Cumbria) from 28^th-30^th November. This latter bird then relocated to fields near Loaningfoot (Dumfries & Galloway) on 29^th-31^st December.

North American Wood Duck: A drake of unknown origin was at tacumshin Pools (County Wexford) on 2^nd December.

American Wigeon: Regularly returning drakes were seen at Wintersett Reservoir, Ryhill (West Yorks), from 8^th October, Kirk Loch and Lochmaben (Dumfries & Galloway) from 13^th October and at Loch Bee, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) from 24^th-28^th October. A drake was also at Loch of Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) from 31^st October until 5^th November, with others at St John’s Loch (Caithness) on 2^nd November, in the Yare Valley near Bawburgh (Norfolk) on 9^th-30^th December and in Udale Bay (Highland) from 24^th-31^st December.

In Ireland, a drake was at Tacumshin (County Wexford) from 7^th October until at least 5^th November, with others at Cahore (County Wexford) on 8^th December and Ashton’s Callow (County Tipperary) on 29^th December.

Falcated Duck: In Oxfordshire, a drake arrived at farmoor Reservoirs with an influx of Mallards on 9^th December and remained there until 13^th.

North American Black Duck: In Ireland, the long-surviving drake was present at Achill Island (County Mayo) throughout the latter half of the year, two Mallard hybrids also being recorded in September, whilst in Scotland, the drake returned to Strontian (Highland) from 23^rd December.

Blue-winged Teal:  An eclipse drake of unknown origin was at Carbarns Pool near Motherwell (Clyde) from 25^th August until 8^th September before returning to Bridgend Farm Pools, near Kirkintilloch on 16^th September. It then returned to the River Threave, near Castle Douglas, on 29^th November, showing intermittently until the end of the year. Other sightings included a drake at Marshside Marsh RSPB, Southport (Lancs) on 16^th September

In Ireland, an eclipse drake remained at Tacumshin Lakes (County Wexford) until 26^th August, with two females at the North Slob WR (County Wexford) on 6^th-9^th August and an immature at Church Island, Lough Beg (County Derry) on 14^th September. A further first-winter was identified at Rahasane Turlough (County Galway) on 14^th-30^th October, with yet another at ballylongford (County Kerry) on 22^nd-29^th November. In December, a juvenile was at Ballyalla Lake, Ennis (County Clare) on 1^st-2^nd, with the regular female on North Bull Island (County Dublin) on 9^th.

Ring-necked Duck: In Perth & Kinross, a drake was at Loch Leven off Grahamstone on 20^th August, whilst in September, single drakes appeared at Orgreave lagoons, Sheffield (South Yorks) from 10^th until 7^th October and at Loch Kinord, Aboyne (Aberdeenshire) on 17^th. Deep Atlantic depressions during October resulted in the arrival of 3 first-winters on Scilly, the drake and two females commuting between Porthellick Pool and Tresco Great Pool from 16^th October until the end of the year. Also associated with this arrival were first-winter females on Tiree (Argyll) on 19^th October, Slapton Ley (South Devon) from 22ndn October into 2013 and at Siblyback Lake (Cornwall) from 27^th October, as well as a drake at Chew Valley Lake (Avon) from 14^th October into early December. A first-winter drake on Skomer Island (Pembs) from 8^th-15^th November later moved to Marloes Mere, whilst further arrivals included a female on North Uist (Outer Hebrides) from 6^th November, a drake on Loch Alvie, Aviemore (Speyside) on 7^th-8^th November, a drake on Loch Watten (Highland) on 10^th November, a drake on Helston Loe Pool (Cornwall) from 16^th-19^th November, a drake at Rutland Water (Leics) on 2^nd November and latterly at Eyebrook Reservoir (Leics) from 18^th-30^th November, a drake at Dungeness (Kent) on 9^th December and a female at Whitlingham Broad, Trowse (Norfolk), on 9^th-13^th December.

Ireland saw at least four Ring-necked Ducks arrive during October, with those at Cross Lough (County Mayo) and Lough Shivnagh (County Donegal) remaining into 2013.

Ferruginous Duck: An adult drake was at Blagdon Lake (Somerset) from 12^th July until 19^th August, before moving to Chew Valley Lake (Avon) on 30^th-31^st August and 13^th-14^th September. A female was at Minsmere RSPB Reserve (Suffolk) from 1^st-23^rd August with one at Chew Valley Lake on 8^th-13^th September and again from 1^st-18^th October. The regular drake reappeared at Ibsley Water (Hants) for one day on 22^nd October (and again on 12^th November), whilst a female Ferruginous Duck hybrid performed well at Welney Refuge (Norfolk) from at least 5^th-10^th November. In December, a drake visited Curry Moor (Somerset) on 2^nd-9^th December before moving to Wimbleball Lake on 11^th-13^th, with another drake at Girton GP (Notts) on 18^th-30^th.

Lesser Scaup: An eclipse drake was at Cardiff Bay Wetlands NR (East Glamorgan) on 25^th August before moving back to Chew Valley Lake (Avon) from 28^th August until 16^th November. A further drake was seen at Loch Leven RSPB (Perth & Kinross) on 15^th September, with an additional drake at Chew from 15^th-25^th October, two drakes at Loch Watten (Caithness) on 10^th November (one remaining until 13^th and the other moving to nearby St John’s Loch until at least 18^th) and the regular drake at Dozmary Pool and Colliford lake (Cornwall) from 1^st December into 2013. The Chew drake relocated to Blagdon Lake (Somerset) from 7^th December into 2013.

In Ireland, a first-winter drake was at Lough Gash (County Clare) from 4^th November into 2013, as was that at Lough Gill, Castlegregory.

King Eider: In Lincolnshire, a female was seen again in the Wash drifting north past Gibraltar Point on 1^st July, whilst the regular drake off Aberdeenshire was with moulting drake Eiders at Blackdog, Murcar, until 1^st July. At Burghead (Moray), the usual drake was back from 29^th September, being reported intermittently until 10^th November. An immature drake was off Filey Brigg (North Yorks) on 8^th December, with an adult drake off Rosehearty (Aberdeenshire) on 29^th December and another at Symbister (Shetland) on 31^st December.

North American Black Scoter: The first-summer male remained with up to 3,000 moulting scoter off Blackdog Rocks (Aberdeenshire) until 6^th July.

Surf Scoter: The same moulting scoter flock that harboured the above species also continued to attract up to five different Surf Scoters in July – two adult drakes, two first-summer drakes and a female. Four remained throughout August. Further south, a drake was seen off Monifieth (Angus) on 1^st-6^th July before relocating off Lunan Bay (Angus) from 21^st July until 8^th August. In North Wales, a drake was in Colwyn Bay (Gwynedd) on 28^th August, whilst in September, a drake flew past Uisead Point, Machrihanish (Argyll) on 18^th and a drake was off Muckle Roe (Shetland) on 23^rd-24^th before relocating to nearby Olna Firth from 30^th until 3^rd October.

As the second winter period approached, a single adult drake was in Largo Bay (Fife) from 13^th October, the drake in Inganess Bay (Orkney) was resident from 17^th October and off North Wales, at least three drakes and a female were identified from over 10,000 Common Scoters  off Llanddulas from 12^th October. New arrivals this autumn included a juvenile at Bunessan, Mull (Argyll), on 1^st October, a female off Embo Pier (Sutherland) on 27^th-29^th October, a juvenile off Saunton Down (Devon) on 28^th-30^th October, a juvenile off Sheringham (Norfolk) on 17^th November, a juvenile at Loch na Reivil, North Uist (Outer Hebrides), from 29^th November until at least 15^th December, a juvenile male was offshore at Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) on 13^th December and a juvenile at Broad Haven (Pembs) from 21^st December into 2013.

Off Ireland, a female was in Brandon Bay (County Kerry) on 7^th October, two different individuals were off County Clare in October and a juvenile drake was in Carnlough Harbour (County Antrim) from 31^st October until 7^th November.

Hooded Merganser: A first-winter female lingered by the North Wall sluice at Pagham Harbour (West Sussex) from 30^th October until 17^th November, whilst in Dorset, the adult drake of unknown origin remained at Radipole Lake RSPB all year.

Black Kite: In East Yorkshire, a juvenile was photographed perching on wires at Spurn and Kilnsea on 18^th September. One flew NW over Pegwell Bay (Kent) on 15^th October, with another reported at Slapton Sands (South Devon) on 31^st October.

Rough-legged Buzzard: The first of the autumn was noted on Unst (Shetland) on 27^th September, with just 3 or 4 individuals making it into January 2013, including popular juveniles at Haddiscoe Levels (Norfolk) and Gibraltar Point (Lincs).

Northern Harrier: In SW Ireland, a juvenile male was at Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford) from 6^th-19^th October, along with a juvenile female at the same locality from 19^th October into January 2013. Both birds roosted in Lingstown Reedbed each night.

Pallid Harrier: What may be the first truly adult female to be identified in the UK roosted each evening on setaside by Firsby Reservoir, Conisbrough (South Yorks) from 20^th September until 7^th October.

In Ireland, a first-summer female flew north over Moyasta, near Kilrush (County Clare) on 12^th August.

Red-footed Falcon: A cracking first-summer male remained at Ivy Lake, Chichester GP (West Sussex), from 20^th August until 11^th September, followed exceptionally by a female at Puckaster Cove, St Lawrence (Isle of Wight), on 24^th-25^th October..

Eleonora’s Falcon: Although not twitchable, a dark morph first-summer was photographed hunting over the ragged clifftop at Porthgwarra (Cornwall) on 11^th August – only the 7^th record of this Mediterranean raptor for Britain.

Gyrfalcon: In the Outer Hebrides, a white morph was at Bornish, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 18^th November, with a juvenile found dead on Barra on 1^st December and further sightings involving two different birds on the Uists sporadically throughout the month.

In Ireland, a white morph was seen at Blennerville (County Kerry) on 27^th November and another near the Burnfoot River (County Derry) on 18^th December.

Baillon’s Crake: In the summer of 2012, at least 6, and perhaps as many as 11, male Baillon’s Crakes were heard calling in apparently suitable breeding habitat at a minimum of three locations in Britain, presumably as a result of severe drought in Iberia. Neighbouring Netherlands also experienced an unprecedented influx, with between 32 and 39 territories in eight provinces, the highest number in recent history (Ruud van Beusekom). And as expected and predicted, one finally gave itself up and lingered at Rainham Marshes RSPB (London) on the marsh in front of the Butts Hide from 7^th-23^rd September providing the autumn highlight for many an observer, especially as it took some several early/late visits before finally connecting.

Spotted Crake: 2012  was the year of the second national survey of this species in the UK with some 28 males heard calling overnight from approximately 130 surveyed sites. The first autumn individuals began appearing from mid August, with the first of 3 at Marazion Marsh RSPB (Cornwall) from 11^th-18^th and 12 elsewhere in the country during the rest of the month (including 2 at Birstall Meadows, Leics, on 25^th, and 2 on Lower Moors Pool, St Mary’s, Scilly, on 28^th). September saw a further dozen seen, including singles at Baron’s Haugh RSPB (Clyde) on 8^th, Upton Warren (Worcs) on 11^th, Stanwick GP (Northants) on 13^th-18^th, Farlington Marshes (Hants) on 30^th and Greylake RSPB (Somerset) from 19^th until 7^th October, with 10 more in October, mostly on Scilly and in Cornwall.

In Ireland where Spotted Crake is still a rare passage migrant, one was trapped and ringed at Cabragh Wetlands (County Tipperary) on 28^th August.

American Coot: The third for Ireland was at Murloch, near Ballyconneely (County Galway) from 28^th November into 2013.

Common Crane: Away from the East Anglian and Somerset breeding and reintroduced populations, one remained at Sandwick (Orkney) until 14^th July before moving to Loch of Swannay from 1^st-25^th August, a pair was at Hatfield Moors (South Yorks) on at least 30^th July to 12^th September, two were at Chat Moss (Greater Manchester) on 1^st-22^nd August, one flew north over Hornsea Mere (East Yorks) on 27^th August, one was at Montrose Basin (Angus) on 28^th August, 3 at New Pitsligo (Aberdeenshire) on 5^th September, one at Port Charlotte, Islay (Argyll), on 21^st September and a flock of 7 in North Kent at the end of December.

During September and October, as many as 44 birds roosted at Horsey Mere (Norfolk), whilst a flock of 8 flew over Rutland Water (Leics) on 26^th October.

A party of four birds arrived at Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford) on 29^th October and were seen daily into the New Year, often ranging widely between fields in the local vicinity. Their number increased to 5 in late November.

Black-winged Stilt: Following the 3-4 pairs that attempted to breed in June, two were again at Wet Moor, Langport (Somerset) on 9^th August, with another reported at Pett Levels (East Sussex) on 15^th August. Two were then seen briefly at Cottam Pits (Notts) on 18^th September.

Black-winged Pratincole: In the Outer Hebrides, a heavily abraded first-summer was at Loch Stiapavat, Lewis, on 2^nd-6^th August – only the fourth-ever to reach Scotland and the first for the Western Isles.

Semipalmated Plover: In the Outer Hebrides, John Kemp located a very confiding juvenile at the Sound of Eriskay at Glendale, South Uist, on 7^th September, the bird performing for allcomers until 11^th. It represented only the fifth record for Britain.

Dotterel: Definitely much scarcer than it once was with breeding numbers on the high plateaux plummeting and migrant numbers dramatically falling; in July, a female remained on the Outer Hebrides at Bornish, South Uist, on 24th-25^th, with 15 appearing in August including singles at Gamlingay (Cambs) on 17^th, Polgigga (Cornwall) on 21^st-23^rd, Sandwich Bay (Kent) on 24^th and on Blakeney Point (Norfolk) on 25^th. September passage saw just a dozen reported, including 2 on Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham (Gloucs) on 11^th and a very confiding juvenile with a Buff-breasted Sandpiper for company on Penninis Head, St Mary’s (Scilly) from 26^th September. Just 7 appeared in October, including a late juvenile on Mersea Island (Essex) on 29^th October and another at Southill (Beds) on 4^th-5^th November.

American Golden Plover: A first-summer was seen intermittently near Earith Washes (Cambs) from 21^st-24^th August before a major arrival, involving some 35 individuals, occurred in September, with 15 in Ireland and up to 10 in the Northern Isles. The Isles of Scilly attracted a single juvenile from 8^th-16^th October, whilst two adults retaining breeding plumage appeared near Anthorn (Cumbria) from 26^th-29^th October. Tacumshin lake (County Wexford) had no less than four juveniles present on 26^th October.

Semipalmated Sandpiper: In Lothian, an adult was present at John Muir Country Park, Tyninghame, from 29^th-31^st July, most likely last year’s bird returning. In September, a major arrival of juveniles took place, with singles at the Butt of Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 3^rd & 4^th, at Balgarva, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 4^th-6^th & 17^th, in Broadford Bay, Skye (Highland) on 7^th-12^th, Loch Ryan (Dumfries & Galloway) on 8^th-12^th, at Carnan, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 9^th, in Tyninghame Bay (Lothian) on 15^th-20^th, at Dungeness ARC Pit (Kent) on 17^th and at Ynyslas (Ceredigion) on 20^th-22^nd.

Western Sandpiper: A juvenile on Tiree (Argyll) on 2^nd-7^th September may well have been that which visited Hoylake Beach (Wirral) from 19^th-24^th September.

Temminck’s Stint: Following a below average spring for numbers, the first in autumn were singles at Rutland Water (Leics) on 12^th-14^th July, the Long Drag Pools (Cleveland) on 14^th-19^th July, the Ythan Estuary (Aberdeenshire) on 20^th July and at Cley NWT (Norfolk) on 24^th July. Just one adult followed in August (at Oare Marshes NR, Kent, on 12^th & 17^th-18^th) and for the second year running, we had a winter record – a first-winter at Stockland Reach, by the Parrett Estuary at Steart (Somerset), from 3^rd December into 2013.

Least Sandpiper: In Ireland, an adult was at Carrahane Strand (County Kerry) on 13^th August with one flying over Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 20^th August.

White-rumped Sandpiper: Single adults were at Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) on 7^th-25^th July, Grimley (Worcs) on 14^th July, Kirkby-on-Bain GP (Lincs) on 14^th July, Havergate Island RSPB (Suffolk) on 22^nd July, Snettisham RSPB (Norfolk) on 22^nd July and again on 5^th & 21^st August, Brownsea Island Lagoon, Poole Harbour (Dorset) on 31^st July, Tyninghame Bay CP (Lothian) on 1^st-4^th August, on Tiree (Argyll) on 6^th August, at Beacon Ponds LNR, Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 10^th-13^th August, Ouse Washes RSPB (Cambs) on 8^th-23^rd September, on the Parrett Estuary at Steart (Somerset) on 15^th-22^nd September and at Hoylake Beach (Wirral) on 21^st-23^rd September. In addition, at least three different birds were on the Outer Hebrides on South Uist between 17^th & 22^nd September with a juvenile reported on Breydon Water (Norfolk) on 28^th September. A grey first-winter touched down briefly at Salthouse Beach (Norfolk) before settling down at Cley NWT Daukes Pool from 17^th-31^st October. A second first-year joined the same flock of Dunlin on the scrape on 30^th-31^st October whilst elsewhere, single juveniles were at Northton, Harris (Outer Hebrides), on 18^th October, Brora (Sutherland) from 28^th-30^th October, inland at the Drayton Bassett Pits (Staffs) from 13^th-21^st November and at Longham Lakes, Bournemouth (Dorset) from 30^th November until 9^th December.

August saw a flourish of arrivals in Ireland with singles at Dungarvan (County Waterford) on 4^th-6^th, the Bann Estuary (County Derry) on 18^th-20^th, at Kilcoole NR (County Wicklow) on 22^nd-26^th and at Blennerville Marsh (County Kerry) on 24^th. A further six individuals were recorded in September, increasing to 10 more in October, including up to 4 juveniles at Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford) on 29^th. In November, two remained at tacumshin until 3^rd, with later singles at Rahasane Turlough (County Galway) on 4^th and Baltimore (County Cork) on 11^th.

Baird’s Sandpiper: A very confiding juvenile was well-watched at West Angle Bay in Pembrokeshire from 20^th-26^th August, with one briefly at Marazion Beach (Cornwall) on 31^st August. There then followed a further 7 in September with singles at Seaton Snook (Cleveland) on 4^th-12^th, Birsay (Orkney) on 8^th, Titchwell RSPB (Norfolk) on 9^th-11^th, Pennington Marshes (Hants) on 14^th, Tresco Great Pool and Tean (Scilly) on 16^th, Esha Ness (Shetland) on 16^th and Brownsman Island, Farnes (Northumberland) on 26^th. A juvenile was reported from Northton, Harris (Outer Hebrides), on 19^th October, whilst an exceptionally late juvenile was at Baltasound, Unst (Shetland) briefly on 26^th November.

In Ireland, an adult was at Smerwick Harbour (County Kerry) on 16^th-17^th August with another at Kilcoole NR (County Wicklow) on 14^th-18^th September. Two juveniles were seen in October with a very late bird at Black Rock Strand (County Kerry) from 30^th November until 12^th December.

Pectoral Sandpiper: An average scattering of sightings in the autumn following the first 13 in July (at Cley NWT, Norfolk, on 13^th-14^th; Cresswell Pond, Northumberland, on 13^th-19^th; on the Earith Washes, Cambs, on 14^th & 26^th-27^th; Titchwell RSPB, Norfolk, on 15^th; Holland Haven Scrape, Essex, on 16^th; Greatham Creek, Teesmouth, Cleveland, on 18^th-19^th; at Old hall Marshes, Essex, on 18^th-22^nd; near Bawtry, South Yorks, on 25^th-28^th; at Loch of Strathbeg RSPB, Aberdeenshire, on 26^th-29^th; Low Newton-by-the-Sea, Northumberland, on 22^nd-24^th; Bishop Middlham, County Durham, on 29^th-31^st; Normandy Marsh, Pennington, Hants, on 29^th-30^th; Cliffe Pools RSPB, Kent, on 31^st), with 22 appearing in August (including 2 at Walton Hall Marshes, Essex, on 27^th-28^th, and 3 on the Hayle Estuary, Cornwall, on 28^th-30^th) and a whopping 120 or more in September. At least 25 remained into October.

Ireland saw an additional 4 in July, 9 in August and 20 in September, including 7 in the Tacumshin Pools area on 8^th-9^th.

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper: The first for Orkney was a nice adult at Swartmill Loch from 20^th-23^rd July. It turned out to be the only occurrence of the year.

Broad-billed Sandpiper: A neat juvenile was at Seaton Snook (Cleveland) on 21^st-22^nd August before refuelling briefly at Nosterfield GP (North Yorks) on 25^th.

Stilt Sandpiper: Coinciding with the only real hot spell of weather in the summer was a moulting breeding-plumaged adult at Low Newton-by-the-Sea (Northumberland) from 5^th-9^th August. It was consorting with a small number of Common Redshanks on floodwater north of the main Newton Pool.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper: In Cheshire, an adult visited Frodsham Marsh from 28^th-30^th July, followed by singles at Ferrybridge (Dorset) on 9^th-10^th August, Warkworth Gut (Northumberland) on 18^th August, St Mary’s Airfield (Scilly) on 29^th-31^st August and at Marazion Beach (Cornwall) on 30^th-31^st August. September then saw a major influx, involving some 35 birds, with the majority on the Northern Isles. Two of these (at Strathbeg RSPB) lingered into early October, whilst the last two to be recorded involved singles at Aberlady Bay (Lothian) on 13^th October and at Loch Hempriggs, Wick (Caithness) on 14^th October.

The first of the autumn in Ireland was an adult on Inishkea Island (County Mayo) on 2^nd July quickly followed by singles at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 12^th-25^th August, Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 18^th & 31^st August, Quilty (County Clare) on 19^th August, Kilshannig (County Kerry) on 30^th-31^st August and 15 or more in September. At least six lingered into early October, including three different individuals at Bridges of Ross (County Clare) until 3^rd.

Short-billed Dowitcher: Another Red Letter event was the finding of this beautiful juvenile at Lodmoor RSPB in Dorset in early September. It went on to stay for just over a month, delighting many hundreds of observers during this time, and representing only the second British record of this primarily West Coast migrant of the USA. Even more incredible was the finding of a second juvenile – another long-staying bird on Tresco (Scilly) from 9^th-21^st September. The Lodmoor juvenile stayed from 3^rd September until 6^th October.

Long-billed Dowitcher: A single adult oversummered in the UK moving from Ouse Fen (Cambs) on 7^th-8^th July to Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) on 21^st July, where it was to remain until 12^th December. Further records included juveniles at Drumburgh Marsh (Cumbria) on 27^th September, Holy Island and Druridge Bay Pools (Northumberland) from 28^th September until 1^st October, Loch Grogarry, North Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 4^th-8^th October, Baleshare, North Uist (Outer Hebrides), on 23^rd-26^th October and at Alkbrough Flats, near Scunthorpe (North Lincs), from 4^th October into January 2013. Additionally, an adult was at Burton Mere Wetlands RSPB (Cheshire) from 1^st-17^th October, with another at Llanelli WWT (South Wales) on 28^th-29^th October. In November, the Northumberland juvenile relocated to the Long Nanny Burn, Beadnell, from 4^th-18^th November, whilst the Baleshare first-winter was still present on 16^th

In Ireland, an adult visited Blennerville Marsh (County Kerry) on the unusually early date of 24^th August, with a juvenile at Lough Beg (County Cork) on 7^th October and at Rosscarberry (County Cork) on 9^th October.

Upland Sandpiper: One was heard calling as it flew over Lissagriffin Lake (County Cork) on 7^th October. It was never seen.

Marsh Sandpiper: another species that has become very rare in recent years as a vagrant to Britain with just two autumn records: on the River Tavy at Blaxton (South Devon) on 5^th July and on Shetland at the Pool of Virkie and Hillwell Loch on 7^th July.

Greater Yellowlegs: The long-staying bird put in a further appearance in northern Scotland in July at St John’s Loch, near Thurso (Caithness), on 25^th-27^th, before appearing once more there on 1^st August. It then relocated south again, visiting Montrose Basin LNR (Angus) on 9^th September before returning once more to Strathbeg RSPB (Aberdeenshire) on 26^th-29^th September.

Lesser Yellowlegs: An adult was at Carness (Orkney) on 30^th-31^st July before autumn vagrants appeared at South Landing, Flamborough (East Yorks) on 1^st September, Kingsmill Lake, Saltash (Cornwall), from 2^nd-27^th September and at Curry Moor (Somerset) on 29^th-30^th September. Another was discovered at Little Kilmory on Bute (Argyll) from 30^th September until 3^rd October, whilst the Somerset bird moved to Greylake RSPB on 10^th-12^th October and the Cornish bird relocated to Ernesettle Creek on the Plymouth side of the River Tamar (South Devon) from 20^th October into 2013. In addition, one was identified on Hayling Island (Hants) on 14^th October, a juvenile visited Aldcliffe Marsh, Lancaster (Lancs), from 21^st October until 5^th December and an adult returned to Alkborough Flats NR (North Lincs) from 28^th October until late December.

In Ireland, single juveniles were seen at North Bull Island (County Dublin) on 7^th-23^rd October and at Ballinskelligs Harbour (County Kerry) from 13^th-27^th October.

Solitary Sandpiper: The rarest bird on Scilly this October was this very confiding juvenile on Bryher from 12^th-14^th. It then moved to a tiny pool opposite the Pottery on St Mary’s from 15^th-17^th October.

Spotted Sandpiper: In the Northern Isles, singles appeared at Ardvule Point, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 6^th-19^th September and at Lower Voe (Shetland) from 30^th September until 2^nd October.

In Ireland, an adult was at Clonea Strand, Dungarvan (County Waterford) on 5^th August, with a juvenile in Smerwick Harbour (County Kerry) from 4^th-16^th September. Two juveniles were then at Moyasta (County Clare) from 13^th-17^th October, with one remaining until 22^nd, with further arrivals at Silver Falls, Ballysadare (County Sligo) on 13^th October and Ross Castle, Killarney (County Kerry) on 23^rd-25^th October. A single juvenile remained in Poulnasherry Bay at Moyasta until 3^rd November.

Terek Sandpiper: An adult was reported from the River Adur at Shoreham (West Sussex) briefly on 24^th July.

Red-necked Phalarope: An adult female lingered at Coombe Hill Meadows (Gloucs) until 5^th July, with another at Backworth Pond (Northumberland) on 1^st-2^nd July and a male on Minsmere Scrape (Suffolk) on 2^nd July. August saw further singles at Wheldrake Ings (North Yorks) on 17^th, Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) from 18^th August until 5^th September, Caerlaverock WWT (Dumfries & Galloway) on 28^th, Wath Ings (South Yorks) on 30^th, Cley NWT (Norfolk) on 30^th and at Rutland Water NR (Leics) on 31^st until 1^st September, with September adding single juveniles on the River Ouse at Newhaven (East Sussex) on 18^th and at Slimbridge WWT (Gloucs) from 27^th September until 3^rd October. A late juvenile was at Shearman’s Wath, West Ashby (North Lincs), from 2^nd-8^th October.

Grey Phalarope: Most unusually, a full summer-plumaged adult female was at Martin Mere WWT (Lancs) on 17^th July with an adult in almost full winter plumage at Old Moor RSPB (South Yorks) just three days later on 20^th July. At sea, one flew past Strumble Head (Pembs) on 29^th July, followed by 6 or more from scattered localities in August before a more widespread arrival in September and October. Inland, singles were noted at Old Moor RSPB (South Yorks) on 24^th September, Carsington Water (Derbyshire) on 17^th-20^th October, Farmoor Reservoirs (Oxfordshire) on 22^nd October, on a flooded field near the Yeo Estuary at Clevedon (Somerset) on 23^rd-26^th November, at Great Livermere (Suffolk) on 2^nd-3^rd December, Bothal Pond (Northumberland) on 4^th December and Dunstable Sewage Works (Beds) from 12^th-17^th December.

Wilson’s Phalarope: In Ireland, an adult that had already moulted into full winter plumage visited Rosscarbery (County Cork) on 24^th-25^th Augus, with a first-winter at Kinsale Marsh (County Cork) on 2^nd-9^th September.

Long-tailed Skua: Once again, very few records from inland sites: a juvenile visited Angler’s Country Park, Ryhill (West Yorks) briefly on 13^th August, whilst further dark morphs flew over Queen Mother Reservoir (Berks) on 17^th September and Belvide Reservoir (Staffs) and Beddington Sewage Farm (Surrey) on 25^th September.

Franklin’s Gull: In Ireland, a first-summer roosted on the beach at Gormanstown (County Meath) on 16^th August.

Laughing Gull: In Aberdeenshire, a second-winter visited fields at Rosehearty Golf Course from 19^th-31^st December, as well as visiting Phingask bay, Fraserburgh, on 29^th.

Sabine’s Gull: Particularly popular was an extremely confiding first-summer at Startop’s End Reservoir, Tring (Bucks) from 1^st-5^th July. This was quickly followed by at least 7 more occurrences in July and a noticeable increase in August, when some 50 or more were logged from coastal localities. Most unexpected was a summer-plumaged adult near the Bill car park at Portland (Dorset) for about an hour early morning on 30^th August. Strong winds throughout September saw no less than 85 logged from coastal sites, with a juvenile displaced inland at Burton Mere Wetlands RSPB (Cheshire) on 20^th-23^rd. Only 30 were reported in October, although a ridiculously tame juvenile on Brighton Esplanade (East Sussex) on 21^st more than made up for the lack of numbers.

Bonaparte’s Gull: An adult was on the Add Estuary near Lochgilphead (Argyll) from 1^st-12^th August, with a regular reappearing adult at Whitburn (County Durham) from 16th August until 9^th September. A first-winter was identified at Burrafirth, Unst (Shetland) on 30^th September, whilst further adults were seen at Strumble Head (Pembs) on 16^th & 19^th October, off Rubha Reidh Lighthouse, Poolewe (Highland), on 16^th October and at Dawlish Warren NNR (South Devon) from 21^st October until 19^th November. The Whitburn adult reappeared at Roker Pier, Sunderland, on 27^th October, whilst an adult roosted at Boddington Reservoir (Northants) on 1^st & 3^rd November.

In Ireland, the adult returned to Larne Harbour (County Antrim) on 14^th September and remained until the year end.

Ring-billed Gull: The returning adult was at Kinneil Lagoon, Grangemouth (Forth), from 14th August until at least 16^th October, whilst the Walpole Park Lake, Gosport (Hants), adult reappeared for its 9^th consecutive winter from 21^st October.

In Ireland, the second-summer at Groomsport Harbour, Bangor (County Down) remained throughout, with another at Ring, near Clonakilty (County Cork) on 22^nd July and others at Nimmo’s Pier Slipway, Galway Harbour (County Galway), from 4^th August, at Doonbeg (County Clare) (a 2^nd-winter) on 20^th-26^th August,

Azorean Yellow-legged Gull: At least four were recorded in Ireland in late August, including a 2^nd-summer at Ring Marsh (County Cork) on 26^th.

Gull-billed Tern: In the Outer Hebrides, an adult visited Loch na Liana More, South Uist, on 25^th July, whilst in August, single adults visited the Dyfi Estuary at Ynyslas (Ceredigion) on 2^nd-6^th and Tophill Low Reservoir (East Yorks) on 25^th.

In Ireland, an adult flew east past Bloody Foreland (County Donegal) on 4^th August.

Caspian Tern: In Dorset, one visited the lagoon on Brownsea Island on 6^th July, whilst a near-adult roosted on the scrape at Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) briefly on 6^th July. This latter individual then made a whistle-stop tour of various inland sites, stopping off at Wissington Beet Factory Pools (Norfolk) on 7^th before settling in to a routine in the Yare Valley from 17^th-19^th (visiting Strumpshaw Fen, Buckenham Marshes, Cantley and Breydon Water each day). It was again seen off Minsmere on 25^th July

Roseate Tern: In Ireland, a staggering post-breeding flock of some 2,000 birds roosted at Sandymount Beach in Dublin at the end of August.

Forster’s Tern: In Ireland, the regular adult was off Soldier’s Point, Dundalk (County Louth) from 29^th August until 14^th October, before moving back to its regular wintering site in Galway Harbour on 29^th October.

American Black Tern: A highly mobile juvenile commuted between Eccleston Mere, St Helen’s and Prescot Reservoirs (Lancashire) and Pennington Flash CP (Gtr Manchester) from 30^th August until 4^th September.

White-winged Black Tern: At least four were seen in July with adult-types at Lodmoor RSPB, Weymouth (Dorset) on 8^th-10^th, Frampton Marsh RSPB (Lincs) on 25^th, Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) on 28^th, Staines Reservoirs (Surrey) on 28^th-29^th, Cresswell Pond (Northumberland) on 29^th, Orford Ness (Suffolk) on 29^th, Alton Water (Suffolk) on 29^th-30^th and at Saltholme Pools RSPB (Cleveland) on 30^th until 2^nd August.

In Ireland, an adult was off Garretstown (County Cork) on 4^th August, with a juvenile at Poulaphouca Reservoir, Blessington (County Wicklow) on 29^th August. A further juvenile was in Dublin Bay at Sandymount Strand (County Dublin) on 8^th September.

American Black Skimmer: In Ireland, the first for the Western Palearctic flew south past Annagh Head on The Mullet (County Mayo) on 30^th August

Snowy Owl: In the Outer Hebrides, the regular summering adult male was on St Kilda from at least 16th July to mid September, whilst in Ireland, an adult male was on Arranmore Island (County Donegal) from 18th July until at least 10^th September and an adult female on the Mullet at Termon Hill (County Mayo) from 14^th-27^th July.

European Eagle Owl: Up to 6 pairs were known to have bred, including the popular pair in North Lancashire.

Belted Kingfisher: In Ireland, a juvenile male visited Lough Fee and Kylemore Abbey Ponds (County Galway) on 5^th-6^th October, although scant compensation for those many that dipped the Western P’s first-ever Eastern Kingbird. It reappeared very briefly near Clifden on 31^st October.

Alpine Swift: In East Yorkshire, a bird in wing moult continued to linger over Bempton Cliffs RSPB until 4^th July, whilst another flew south at Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 1^st July. Far more popular was a bird in suspended post-breeding primary moult over Beeston Bump, Sheringham (Norfolk) from 1^st-6^th August, with further singles, both of which lingering long enough to be twitched, at Newquay (Cornwall) on 17^th-18^th August and in the Edinburgh Area (Lothian) on 17^th-18^th August.

In Ireland, one was seen at Brandon Head (County Kerry) on 21^st August.

European Bee-eater: Singles were at Porthgwarra (Cornwall) on 5^th July, St Just (Cornwall) on 8^th July, Titchfield Haven (Hants) on 28^th-29^th July, Fishguard (Pembs) on 9^th August, Swanage (Dorset) on 28^th-30^th October and at Mere Knolls Cemetery, Seaburn (County Durham), on 31^st October. The latter proved to be very popular, especially amongst photographers, and continued to grace Seaburn until 12^th November.

European Roller: One of the Birding Highlights of 2012: the adult first seen in East Yorkshire for a fortnight in late May/early June was relocated 280 miles further north at New Pitsligo (Aberdeenshire) on 13^th-15^th July before moving a further 100 miles north to Finstown (Orkney) on 26^th-30^th July.

Eurasian Hoopoe: Midsummer sightings involved singles in Richmond Park (London) on 6^th July, North Tolsta, Lewis (Outer Hebrides), on 14^th July, Meols (Wirral) on 26^th July and Manaccan (Cornwall) on 12^th August, whilst returning autumn migrants involved singles at Portland (Dorset) on 16^th-20^th August, Newdigate (Surrey) on 18^th-19^th August, Tresta Voe (Shetland) on 24^th August, Prawle Point (South Devon) on 24^th August, Lower Yelland (North Devon) on 8^th September, Attingham Park (Shropshire) on 13^th September, Brighton Cross, Bodmin Moor (Cornwall) on 28^th September, Sand Bay, Weston-super-Mare (Somerset), on 25^th October to 4^th November, Out Skerries (Shetland) on 14^th October, Whalsay (Shetland) on 1^st-4^th November. Godlingstone Heath (Dorset) on 3^rd November, Llancadle (South Wales) on 12^th November and at Portland Castle (Dorset) on 15^th November.

In Ireland, one was at Bealad West (County Cork) on 23^rd-26^th July, with another near Lisdonvarna (County Clare) on 24^th September. A further late individual was found on Rathlin Island (County Antrim) on 15^th-16^th October.

Wryneck: The first autumn migrants appeared in Britain on 14^th August with some 72 individuals logged by the end of the month, a further 123 in September and just 45 in October.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker: A first-winter female that graced Scalloway gardens (Shetland) from 15^th-19^th October constituted the first British record of the Scandinavian form minor.

Eastern Kingbird: The first for the Western Palearctic involved a juvenile found on Inishmore Island (County Galway) on 5^th October. Despite showing remarkably well all afternoon, much to the satisfaction of just three Irish twitchers, it disappeared overnight. A mighty blocker indeed !

Red-rumped Swallow: In Cheshire, one visited Frodsham Marsh briefly on 29^th August, whilst a juvenile flew south over Conwy RSPB (North Wales) on 3^rd September. At the beginning of October, an unprecedented flock of 7 arrived at Marazion Marsh RSPB (Cornwall) on 5^th, remaining there until early next day. The flock then seemingly dispersed and broke up, with ones and twos being seen in West Cornwall at a number of coastal sites on 6^th, 7^th and 8^th and additional birds noted at South Milton Ley (South Devon) on 6^th, St Agnes (Scilly) on 6^th, over Plymouth (Devon) on 7^th, at Seaford (East Sussex) on 7^th, in Titchwell Reedbed (Norfolk) on 15^th and over Cley NWT (Norfolk) on 17^th. In November, one was seen at Blackness and South Queensferry (Lothian) on 3^rd-4^th.

Greater Short-toed Lark: One still remained on Lundy Island (North Devon) until 6^th July with another summering individual on Blakeney Point (Norfolk) from 8^th-26^th July. Lundy produced yet another record on 12^th September, but in a very poor autumn for the species, just two were seen in October – at Carn Friars, St Mary’s (Scilly), on 15^th-16^th and at Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 27^th.

In SE Ireland, one was at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 29^th September.

Shore Lark: Although the autumn passage of this species was fairly typical (15 were seen in October), just three birds remained to overwinter into 2013 – two in North Norfolk at Cley and one at Gibraltar Point NNR (Lincs).

Tawny Pipit: Singles were seen briefly in Barking Bay, Creekmouth (London) on 19^th August, Bradwell-on-Sea (Essex) on 21^st August, Pegwell Bay (Kent) on 9^th September, the Lower Cuckmere Valley (East Sussex) on 23^rd September and at Dawlish Warren NNR (South Devon) on 29^th September. In October, the first twitchable individual of the year appeared – at Beacon Lane Ponds, Easington (East Yorks) from 11^th-17^th.

Blyth’s Pipit: Just one recorded in 2012 – on Foula (Shetland) on 24^th September.

Richard’s Pipit: The first of the autumn migrants appeared on 24^th September, with birds on Fair Isle, Shetland Mainland and on South Uist (Outer Hebrides). By 30^th, 15 birds had been logged, with a further 85 or more in October and 22 in November. In Ireland, one was at Tacumshin (County Wexford) on 16^th-17^th November.

Olive-backed Pipit: An excellent autumn for this species, particularly in the Northern Isles – and occurrences very early too. In Shetland, singles arrived on Fair Isle and Foula on 24^th September, quickly followed by 6 more around Shetland during 26^th-29^th. Elsewhere, birds were noted at St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 26^th September, Whitburn CP (County Durham) on 28^th and then at many coastal localities throughout October, no less than 55 birds being encountered (again, mostly on the Northern Isles). A late individual was seen at Burrafirth, Unst (Shetland), on 3^rd November.

In Ireland, one reached Inishmore (County Galway) on 22^nd-26^th October.

Pechora Pipit: A Shetland speciality with four typical occurrences: on the Out Skerries on 21^st September, at Norwick, Unst, on 30^th September to 2^nd October, Fair Isle on 1^st-2^nd October and on the Isle of May (Fife) on 16^th October.

Red-throated Pipit: There were six or so flyover birds in October but none lingered long enough to be seen on the deck, mostly in West Cornwall and on Scilly. As in recent years, Tacumshin Lake (County Wexford) produced a record with one noted there on 2^nd November.

American Buff-bellied Pipit: Yet another influx of this rapidly-increasing species on the British List, with singles at Ardvule Point, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) on 19^th September, near Loch Smerclate, South Uist, from 21^st-30^th September, St Mary’s (Scilly) on 26^th-29^th September, on Tiree (Argyll) on 27^th September, on Fair Isle (Shetland) on 29^th September, at Scousburgh (Shetland) from 30^th September until 4^th October, on Bryher (Scilly) on 9^th-27^th and on Foula (Shetland) on 27^th October. Most incredulously, the first of two different individuals appeared at Queen Mother Reservoir (Berks) on 12^th December, both birds being seen together on Boxing Day.

Several more were discovered in Ireland with singles on Cape Clear Island (County Cork) on 24^th September, at Smerwick Harbour (County Kerry) from 28^th September until 13^th October, at Carrickfergus Castle (County Antrim) on 30^th September to 5^th October and up to two at Corbett’s Beach near Tyrella (County Down) from 13^th November into December.

Citrine Wagtail: No longer the rarity this species once was, first-winters were identified on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 12^th-14^th August, Noss (Shetland) on 12^th August, Unst (Shetland) on 17^th August, two on Fair Isle (Shetland) on 14^th-15^th August, another on Fair Isle on 25^th August, Foula (Shetland) on 31^st August, three different birds on Scilly in September, Barns Ness (Lothian) on 20^th-21^st September and on Tiree (Argyll) on 27^th-29^th September. Late individuals were seen on Fair Isle on 5^th October and on Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 10^th-14^th October, taking this autumn’s tally to a very respectable 20 birds.

Bohemian Waxwing: Due to an almost total berry crop failure in Scandinavia, an enormous arrival of almost 6,000 birds took place in Britain from mid October, culminating in single flocks of over 1,000 birds in several localities in Scotland in November. By the end of the year, the majority had moved south to winter in southern England and East Anglia, with a substantial percentage moving even further south into Europe.

Cedar Waxwing: In Ireland, Dave Suddaby watched a first-winter settle in his Termon garden (County Mayo) briefly, before it flew off north.

Black-bellied Dipper: Singles were at Gulberwick Burn (Shetland) from 3^rd-6^th November and by the River Thet in Thetford (Norfolk) from 6^th November into January 2013.

Thrush Nightingale: One was on Fair Isle (Shetland) from 24^th-26^th August

Bluethroat: One was trapped and ringed at Hollesley Marsh (Suffolk) on 19^th August, followed by 7 on the Northern Isles in September and another at Fife Ness (Fife) on 27^th September. A further dozen reached Shetland and Orkney in October but elsewhere just one at Easington Lagoons (East Yorks) on 23^rd-25^th. In November, singles were noted on Tresco (Scilly) on 2^nd and at Gibraltar Point (Lincs) on 3^rd.

Siberian Rubythroat: In Shetland, a first-winter female lingered on Fair Isle from 23rd October until 3^rd November. In recent years, this highly sought-after Sibe has become annual, but still no Mainland record to shout about.

Red-flanked Bluetail: A poor autumn by recent standards with just three

located: a first-winter trapped and ringed at Skaw Plantation, Whalsay (Shetland) on 27^th September, a first-winter in Ridley Park, Blyth (Northumberland) on 22^nd October and a particularly confiding first-winter in Stiffkey Meals *Norfolk) on 22^nd-24^th October.

Siberian Stonechat: Single first-winters were identified on Copinsay (Orkney) on 27^th September, Hoswick (Shetland) from 27^th September until 8^th October, Birling Gap, Beachy Head (East Sussex), on 20^th-23^rd October, Mid Soar (South Devon), on 27^th-30^th October, Wellington GP (Herefordshire) on 27^th-30^th October, Norwick, Unst (Shetland), on 29^th October, Gunnersbury Park, Southend (Essex) on 29^th-30^th October

In Ireland, a first-winter was at Firkeel (County Cork) on 1^st October

Stejneger’s Stonechat: a first-winter male that had spent the best part of a month on Texel (The Netherlands) migrated overnight to Portland Bill (Dorset) on 24^th October, where it was trapped and ringed on 26^th (its last day). Analysis of the mtDNA confirmed its maternal lineage as belonging to stejnegeri – an eastern form of Siberian Stonechat now considered a good phylogenetic species by some authorities.

Pied Wheatear: A poor autumn for this autumn vagrant from the east with just two records – a first-winter male on Holy Island (Northumberland) on 14^th October and a first-winter male at Quendale (Shetland) on 23^rd-24^th October.

Desert Wheatear: Unlike the last species, a good autumn, with no less than six occurrences – a male at Splash Point, Worthing (West Sussex), from 24^th-27^th October, a female at West Lulworth (Dorset) on 27^th October, a first-winter female at Abberton Reservoir (Essex) from 28^th October until 5^th November, a male at Harty Marshes (Kent) on 18^th November, a female by Rhyl Golf Course (Clwyd) from 23^rd-30^th November and a female at Rattray Head (Aberdeenshire) from 2^nd December into January 2013.

White’s Thrush: Simply stunning – one was on Inner Farne (Northumberland) on 24^th September with others just seen in flight at St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 27^th September and in the Cot Valley, St Just (Cornwall), briefly on 8^th October. Another was then trapped – on Barra (Outer Hebrides) on 13^th October.

Swainson’s Thrush: One was on Foula (Shetland) on 23^rd September, followed by another (later trapped and ringed) on Barra (Outer Hebrides) from 2^nd-4^th October.

Grey-cheeked Thrush: An elusive individual frequented fields near St Agnes Campsite (Scilly) from 6^th-8^th October.

Eyebrowed Thrush: One visited Foula (Shetland) on 13^th October.

Black-throated Thrush: The 13^th for Fair Isle involved a first-winter on Fair Isle on 6^th October, with an unusual December record at Muness, South Nesting (Shetland) on 1^st.

Pallas’s Grasshopper Warbler: On 26^th September, following a period of intense SE winds, singles were discovered at Hartlepool Headland (Cleveland), Whitburn Coastal Park (County Durham)(trapped & ringed) and at Whinnyfold Plantation (Aberdeenshire). As expected, all had gone by the following day. Two more were then recorded in October, with a first-winter trapped and ringed on Fair Isle on 3^rd and one seen briefly at Marsden Old Quarry (County Durham) on 12^th.

Lanceolated Warbler: In Shetland, singles were on Out Skerries on 21^st September, Fair Isle on 23^rd & 26^th September, Whalsay on 25^th September and Sandness on 27^th September, whilst another was on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 26^th September. In October, a bird that was regrowing its tail remained on Fair Isle for almost a month (2^nd-22^nd), with yet another on North Ronaldsay on 17^th. A return to normal for this mouse-like locustella.

River Warbler: In Shetland, the unusual oversummering individual remained on Fair Isle until 11^th July. Another bird arrived on Fair Isle on 11^th September, but was sadly found dead there the next day, whilst a further bird appeared at Burwick, South Ronaldsay (Orkney), on 24^th September.

Aquatic Warbler: Singles were trapped and ringed at South Milton Ley (South Devon) on 10^th August, Marazion Marsh RSPB (Cornwall) on 12^th August, Portland Bill Bird Observatory Garden (Dorset) on 12^th August, Keysworth, Poole Harbour (Dorset) on 18^th August (3) and at Church Cove, Gunwallow (Cornwall) on 23^rd August, with additional juveniles seen in the field at Red Rocks NR, Hoylake (Wirral) on 19^th-20^th August and at Steart (Somerset) on 21^st August. In September, a juvenile lingered at Porthloo Duck Pond, St Mary’s (Scilly), from 25^th-29^th.

Savi’s Warbler: A reeling male remained at Blacktoft Sands RSPB (East Yorks) until 5^th July.

Paddyfield Warbler: One remained on Fair Isle (Shetland) until 11^th July. In September, one was trapped and ringed at Kirkton of Logie Buchan, by the Ythan Estuary (Aberdeenshire), on 8^th, with yet another on Fair Isle from 24^th

September until 1^st October. An unbelievably confiding first-winter then set up territory in a bracken-filled hollow adjacent to the coastal footpath in Church Cove, The Lizard (Cornwall), from 8^th-13^th October.

Blyth’s Reed Warbler: One was on Sanday (Orkney) on 21^st September, whilst on Shetland, an influx there included singles at Hillsgarth, Unst, on 21^st, Halligarth, Unst, on 26^th-30^th, Fair Isle on 22^nd-29^th (with a second bird there on 29^th), Foula on 24^th-27^th (with a second bird there on 25^th), Whalsay on 24^th and at Collafirth on 29^th-30^th. Elsewhere, singles were at Bornish, South Uist (Outer Hebrides) from 28^th until 2^nd October and at Barns Ness (Lothian) on 28^th September, with another surge in records in October involving a further six birds – North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 9^th, Dale of Walls (Shetland) on 12^th, St Mary’s Island (Northumberland) on 13^th, Quarff (Shetland) on 16^th, Northbay, Barra (Outer Hebrides) on 16^th, Inverness (Highland) on 20^th and on the Garrison, St Mary’s (Scilly), on 30^th-31^st. A first-winter, identified retrospectively from photographs, showed well at Ferry Meadows CP near Peterborough on 23^rd November.

Records continue to gather apace in Ireland too with another four occurrences this October – on Inishbofin (County Galway) from 5^th-7^th, on Tory Island (County Donegal) on 8^th, at West Beara (County Cork) on 8^th and at Helvick Head (County Waterford) on 15^th-16^th.

Marsh Warbler: On Shetland, singles remained on Fair Isle until 1^st July and Foula until 5^th July whilst singing males in suitable habitat throughout the rest of Britain remained at a very low ebb.

In the autumn, few records, but singles on Shetland on Fair Isle on 12^th September and Foula on 22^nd September and another at St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe (Kent) on 9^th September. Three more were reported in October with singles at Thorntonloch (Lothian) on 3^rd, on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 5^th and on St Agnes (Scilly) on 22^nd-23^rd.

Great Reed Warbler: In Shetland, one was at Norwick, Unst, on 22^nd September, with yet another – at Rerwick, near Scousburgh, on 5^th October.

Eastern Olivaceous Warbler: In Fife, one made an unprecedented stay at Kilminning, Fife Ness, showing well from 14^th October until 20^th November.

Booted Warbler: Early migrants were seen on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 16^th August and at Sumburgh Head (Shetland) on 18^th-20^th August. September saw a further four birds arrive, with singles on Fair Isle on 22^nd, by the seawall at Burnham Overy Marshes (Norfolk) on 23^rd-26^th, at Clibberswick, Unst (Shetland) on 27^th and on Bressay (Shetland) on 29^th. In October, just one was found – at Covean, St Agnes (Scilly), on 20^th.

Sykes’s Booted Warbler: In Shetland, one lingered on Foula from 23^rd-29^th September, whilst on Scilly, one showed well in inclement weather conditions near Tresco Great Pool from 5^th-6^th October.

Icterine Warbler: A singing male was inland at Cockmuir (Lothian) from 4^th-8^th July, whilst the first autumn migrant appeared at Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 12^th August. From thenon until the end of the month, a further 25 birds appeared along the East Coast between Shetland and Norfolk, with just 5 more in September.

Melodious Warbler: An average showing by recent standards with eight birds recorded in August (on Bardsey Island, Gwynedd, on 6^th; Portland Bill, Dorset, on 9^th; on St Mary’s, Scilly, on 14^th & 31^st; Walney Island, Cumbria, on 19^th; Beachy Head, East Sussex, on 19^th-20^th, Start Point, South Devon, on 20^th and on Skokholm, Pembs, on 28^th) and 11 in September (including two different birds on Bardsey Island on 8^th and singles at Sandwich Bay, Kent, on 14^th and on Scilly at the end of the month). The last to be reported during the year was on Skokholm (Pembs) on 6^th-7^th October.

Western Subalpine Warbler: A male was on Foula (Shetland) on 2^nd July, whilst one of just two autumn records involved a first-winter at the Avalanche Road Hump, Southwell (Portland, Dorset) from 14^th-26^th October. The first Subalpine ever to winter in the Uk involved a first-winter female in St Just (Cornwall) gardens from 17^th November into January 2013.

Barred Warbler: The first of the autumn (and year) involved a juvenile on the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 6^th August, with a further 63 then logged before the end of the month, mostly on Shetland and Orkney. At least 110 then appeared in September and a further 70 in October

In Ireland, where the species remains very scarce, a juvenile was on Arranmore Island (County Donegal) on 2^nd September.

Asiatic Desert Warbler: In East Kent, one was photographed at Samphire Hoe CP, Dover, early morning on 18^th November. Despite being alerted by the photographer shortly later, the bird was never seen again.

Greenish Warbler: Following singles on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 14^th-15^th August and Out Skerries (Shetland) on 18^th August, three arrived along the Northumberland coastline in late August at Tynemouth on 26^th, St Mary’s Wetland on 26^th-28^th and on Inner Farne on 26^th-28^th and others elsewhere at Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 26^th, Blakeney Point (Norfolk) on 26^th-28^th, Gibraltar Point (Lincs) on 28^th and at Great Ormes Head (Conwy) on 29^th. September saw a further flourish of records with singles on Skomer Island (Pembs) on 8^th-12^th, at Norwick, Unst (Shetland), on 23^rd-24^th, at East Hills, Wells (Norfolk), on 24^th-26^th, in Filey NCCP (North Yorks) on 25^th-26^th, at Burniston (North Yorks) on 25^th-26^th, Flamborough Head Old fall Plantation (East Yorks) on 26^th, Kilnsea (East Yorks) on 26^th-29^th and at St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe (Kent) on 29^th-30^th.

In Ireland, singles were discovered at Old Head of Kinsale (County Cork) on 12^th October and at Three Castles Head (County Cork) on 17^th October.

Arctic Warbler: Singles were noted on Fair Isle (Shetland) on 19^th-21^st, 29^thAugust to 5^th September, 21^st-23^rd September and 27^th September, Halligarth, Unst (Shetland), on 1^st-2^nd September, Flamborough Head Old fall Plantation (East Yorks) on 1^st-2^nd September, Holy Island (Northumberland) on 26^th-29^th September, Fair Isle again on 2^nd October, Ronas Voe (Shetland) on 21^st October and at Brancaster Staithe (Norfolk) on 24^th-25^th October. An exceptionally late bird was then seen at Helendale, Lerwick (Shetland), on 6^th-10^th November. An exceptional year involving 10 records.

Pale-legged Leaf Warbler: Well, what can one say. Totally unexpected and off the scale. The first for the Western Palearctic was seen and photographed in Pete & Debby Saunders’ back garden in Southwell, Portland (Dorset) on 22^nd October, showing well up until dusk. Just a limited number of local observers connected, the bird never to be seen again.

Pallas’s Leaf Warbler: Compared to the number of Arctic Warblers recorded in autumn 2013, this was a poor year for this species. Following the arrival of the first singles in Angus and Aberdeenshire on 13^th October, one was located in a Lancashire back garden on 15^th-20^th. A further 15 were then discovered along the East Coast from Northumberland to Kent between 15^th and 30^th, whilst another strayed far inland to Hatfield Moors (South Yorks) on 24^th. Just three more appeared in November – on Rousay (Orkney) on 10^th, Portland Bill (Dorset) on 14^th and at Dungeness (Kent) on 14^th-17^th.

Like most vagrant warblers, this species is rare in Ireland, so one at Knockadoon Head (County Cork) on 27^th October was Headline News.

Yellow-browed Warbler: Singles that arrived at Holme NOA (Norfolk) and North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 21^st September were precursors of a major autumn influx, involving at least 450 birds by the end of the month and including over 150 on 22^nd September alone. At least 200 more arrived in October, with a few filtering west into Ireland.

Hume’s Leaf Warbler: Singles were identified on a combination of call and plumage characteristics at Cambois (Northumberland) on 11^th-12^th October, Norwick, Unst (Shetland), on 16^th-24^th October, on Fair Isle on 17^th-18^th October, in Belle Tout Wood, Beachy Head (East Sussex), from 30^th October until 4^th November

Radde’s Warbler: Slightly later than usual, the first was trapped and ringed at Spurn Point (East Yorks) on 11^th October. This was followed by a bird on Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 14^th and 1-2 birds at Kilminning Rose Patch, Fife Ness (Fife) from 18^th-21^st. Further singles then appeared at Lunan Bay (Angus) on 18^th-21^st, on St Agnes (Scilly), on 22^nd-23^rd, on the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 22^nd-25^th and trapped and ringed at Hollesley RSPB (Suffolk) on 30^th October.

Dusky Warbler: In Shetland, singles were seen at Symbister, Whalsay, on 12^th October, Swinister Burn, Sandwick, on 19^th and at Sumburgh Head Quarry on 20^th, whilst elsewhere, an above average showing included singles at Reculver Towers (Kent) on 22^nd, Hartlepool Headland (Cleveland) on 22^nd, Whitburn CP (County Durham) on 23^rd-28^th, St Mary’s Island Wetland (Northumberland) on 23^rd, Flamborough Head (East Yorks) on 25^th, Long Nab, Burniston (North Yorks) on 25^th, Holy Island (Northumberland) on 25^th-26^th and at Lynford Arboretum (Norfolk) for just over an hour on 29^th. Several more appeared in November, with singles at Portland Castle (Dorset) on 13^th-14^th, West Bexington (Dorset) on 30^th and at Swanvale NR, Swanpool (Cornwall) from 23^rd November until 5^th December. On the Isles of Scilly, one overwintered in Lower Moors, St Mary’s, being noted from 10^th December into the New Year.

In Ireland, one was on Inishmore (County Galway) (that island again !) from 19^th-24^th October.

Western Bonelli’s Warbler: In Orkney, one was seen sporadically on North Ronaldsay in the Holland House Garden from 1^st-30^th July, whilst on the Isles of Scilly, one was photographed on Bryher on 26^th August. On this same archipelago, one was on the Garrison, St Mary’s, on 20^th-21^st September, with yet another on St Martin’s from 1^st-6^th October.

Iberian Chiffchaff: In North Somerset, the singing male remained at Porlock until early August.

Red-breasted Flycatcher: The first autumn arrival was that on Whalsay (Shetland) on 15^th September, a precursor for 50 or more before the end of that month. North Norfolk attracted 6 or more, with further birds widely scattered between Shetland, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Scilly. At least 75 more were discovered in October, with a further seven recorded in Ireland. Four very late birds occurred on Scilly in early November, with the last in Cot Valley (Cornwall) from 6^th-8^th November. This was eclipsed somewhat however, by an even later individual in Nanquidno Valley, St Just (Cornwall), on 11^th-13^th December.

Penduline Tit: Late October annually produces a crop of Penduline Tit occurrences and this year was no exception, with an influx of up to 15 birds. An adult male was at Dungeness ARC (Kent) on 15^th & 28^th October, with an immature on Tresco Great Pool (Scilly) from 22^nd-27^th October, another at Oare Marshes NR, Faversham (Kent), on 30^th-31^st October, the ARC Pit male again on 5^th & 13^th November, up to four at Grove Ferry, Stodmarsh NNR (Kent) from 6^th-13^th November, two juveniles at Marston Vale Millenium Park (Beds) on 10^th November, these latter two at Ouse Fen (Cambs) on 2^nd-13^th December and later singles in Pegwell bay (Kent) on 6^th December and Minsmere RSPB (Suffolk) on 8^th December.

Golden Oriole: Up to four birds were eventually seen at Lakenheath Fen RSPB (Suffolk) but successful breeding was not considered to have taken place because of the poor weather. Autumn migrants are rarely encountered in the UK so singles at Collister (Shetland) on 19^th August and North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 20^th August were noteworthy, as well as one at Ollaberry (Shetland) on 10^th September.

Red-backed Shrike: Present in at least one breeding site during the summer whilst the first of autumn included a female at East Holton (Dorset) on 6^th July and adult males at East Chevington (Northumberland) on 6^th-15^th July, Lake Farm Country Park, Hayes (Middlesex), on 11^th-22^nd July and at Cheriton (Hants) on 26^th July. August was typically better for this species with a juvenile on Blakeney Point (Norfolk) on 12^th, singles on the Isle of May (Fife) on 17^th-18^th, Sammy’s Point, Easington (East Yorks) on 18^th, Land’s End Cycle Track (Cornwall) on 19^th-20^th, Great Ormes Head (Conwy) on 26^th, Salthouse (Norfolk) on 31^st and Beachy Head (East Sussex) on 31^st and a further 15 on the Northern Isles during the month. September saw just 22 more arrive, with 10 lingering into October. A very late first-year was trapped and ringed in Weybourne (Norfolk) on 9^th November.

In Ireland by comparison, just one juvenile in August at Hook Head (County Wexford) on 18^th-19^th and three more in October.

Isabelline Shrike: In Shetland, an early first-winter was at Hestingsgot, near Toab, from 27th September until 5^th October, with an adult male of the form isabellinus at Portland Bill (Dorset) from 23^rd-27^th October.

Woodchat Shrike: On Anglesey, a first-summer male visited Llanfairynghornwy, near Cemlyn, on 12^th July, whilst in August, a first-summer male was in residence at Wyke Regis Bridging Camp (Dorset) from 18^th until 1^st September and a juvenile was on Tresco (Scilly) on 20^th.

In Ireland, a juvenile was on Inishmore Island (County Galway) from 10^th-20^th October.

Lesser Grey Shrike: On the Isles of Scilly, an adult was on the Garrison, St Mary’s, on 22^nd August, whilst on Shetland, one was at Aithbank, Fetlar, on 14^th September.

Great Grey Shrike: The first autumn migrants appeared on the East Coast during 25^th-27^th September, with a further 40 or so being noted in October.

House Crow: In Ireland, the long-staying adult survived in Cobh (County Cork) until at least 21^st July.

Rose-coloured Starling: At the height of summer in July, single adults were seen at Ynyslas (Ceredigion) on 2^nd-9^th, St Martin’s (Scilly) on 3^rd and at Newbiggin (Northumberland) on 5^th, whilst in August, adults were at Marbhig, Lewis (Outer Hebrides) on 6^th, Hillswick (Shetland) on 6^th, Wick (Caithness) on 9^th, Gulberwick (Shetland) on 11^th, Perranporth (Cornwall) on 24^th and at Llansantffraed (Wales) from 26^th until 2^nd September. In September, an adult was at St Agnes (Cornwall) on 14^th-15^th followed by juveniles at Samphire Hoe CP (Kent) on 20^th-21^st, Cape Cornwall (Cornwall) on 21^st, St Martin’s (Scilly) on 21^st-28^th, Cunningsburgh (Shetland) on 22^nd, St Mary’s (Scilly) on 24^th-30^th, Holme & Titchwell (Norfolk) on 25^th-26^th, Easington (East Yorks) on 26^th and Hayling Island (Hants) on 28^th-29^th. Another wave of immigrants in October with single juveniles on St Mary’s and on St Martin’s (Scilly) from 1^st-6^th (the latter until 14^th), St Agnes (Scilly) on 22^nd-24^th, Haverfordwest (Pembs) on 19^th-20^th, Cape Cornwall Golf Course (Cornwall) on 22^nd, Strumble Head (Pembs) on 28^th and the Walmsley Sanctuary, Wadebridge (Cornwall) on 30^th. November saw juveniles at Northrepps (Norfolk) on 17^th, Port Isaac (Cornwall) on 17^th-29^th and at St Columb Major (Cornwall) on 26^th-27^th. At the end of the year, a first-winter frequented Exminster Village (South Devon) from 12^th December into 2013.

In Ireland, single adults were near Wicklow (County Wicklow) again on 4^th July, at Malin Beg (County Donegal) on 6^th July and at Dungarvan (County Waterford) on 19^th-24^th July, with further juveniles in autumn on Arranmore Island (County Donegal) on 3^rd October and at Knockadoon Head (County Cork) on 28^th October.

Spanish Sparrow: A presumably ship-assisted male was present at Landguard NR (Suffolk) from at least 24^th August until 27^th September – the first record for the county. It was very intermittent in its appearances, only occasionally being located in the pre-roost gathering of House Sparrows on the common. What may have been last year’s Calshot male was visiting a garden feeder in Newchurch (Isle of Wight) from 4^th-6^th November.

Red-eyed Vireo: The first for Shetland and one of the earliest British records ever was a first-winter in Valyie garden, Norwick, Unst, from 12^th-15^th September.

European Serin: In Suffolk, a long-staying but very erratic female remained at landguard NR until 13^th July, whilst an equally elusive singing male was in the Dungeness Area (Kent) from 10^th-15^th July and a flyover in Kent at Cheriton on 25^th July. Much scarcer in autumn, with perhaps 14 seen briefly in October and 4 in November.

Scandinavian Arctic Redpoll: Following an unseasonal bird at St Abb’s Head (Lothian) on 1^st July, one was trapped and ringed on Fair Isle (Shetland) on 14^th July.

Hornemann’s Arctic Redpoll: Coinciding with a major influx of Greenland and Northwestern Redpolls came an unprecedented influx of Hornemanni, the first of which arrived on Unst at Norwick on 28^th September. Although this bird remained until 11^th October, up to 10 more were discovered on Unst and neighbouring islands throughout the rest of the month. Elsewhere, at least two frequented North Ronaldsay (Orkney) during 17^th-22^nd October, whilst 6 or more were considered to have passed through Port Nis, at the extreme NW tip of Lewis (Outer Hebrides) between 14^th & 26^th October. And at last a first-winter finally reached the Mainland – but frustratingly got misidentified throughout much of its stay at Holkham Dunes (Norfolk) on 26^th-27^th October. All was not lost though as in December, an extremely confiding and popular first-winter inhabited Aldeburgh Beach (Suffolk) from 8^th-19^th December.

Common Rosefinch: The first juveniles of the autumn appeared on the Northern Isles from 14^th August, with 9 or more recorded there by the months end. Elsewhere, singles were on Skokholm (Pembs) on 28^th August, Holme Dunes (Norfolk) on 30^th August. September saw an arrival of a further 30, few of which being twitchable apart from a juvenile at Whitburn CP (County Durham) on 27^th-29^th. October proved no better, with 15 reported, mostly from Shetland.

In Ireland, singles visited Arranmore Island (County Donegal) on 17^th August and Copeland Island (County Down) on 8^th September, with 5 or so reaching the West Coast of Ireland in October.

Myrtle Warbler: Two reached Ireland in October – on Dursey Island (County Cork) on 3^rd-6^th and on Inishmore Island (County Galway) on 6^th.

Magnolia Warbler: The second for Britain but a first for Scotland involved a first-winter male on Fair Isle (Shetland) on the evening of 23^rd September; it was admired by a lucky 38 observers and was never seen again.

Blackpoll Warbler: On the Isles of Scilly, singles reached Bryher from 11^th-18^th October and near Telegraph, St Mary’s, on 28^th-29^th October.

In Ireland, one visited Inishmore (County Galway) on 7^th October, with the fourth of the autumn in Dave Suddaby’s Termon garden on The Mullet (County Mayo) on 9^th November.

Ortolan Bunting: Another passage migrant declining in numbers at an alarming rate. Just two were recorded in August (at Spurn Point, East Yorks, on 18^th and on North Ronaldsay, Orkney, on 20^th-24^th), 16 in September (mainly in SW Britain, with 4 on Scilly) and just two in October (on St Mary’s, Scilly, on 1^st-6^th and in Housel Bay, Lizard, Cornwall, on 10^th).

In Ireland, singles were on Inishbofin Island (County Galway) on 10^th-12^th September, at Skibbereen (County Cork) on 20^th September, Knockadoon Head (County Cork) on 29^th September, Lissagriffin (County Cork) on 1^st-3^rd October and at Mizen Head (County Cork) on 4^th October.

Chestnut-eared Bunting: The second for Britain (and Shetland) involved a first-winter female near the Pool of Virkie at Eastshore from 23^rd-25^th October.

Rustic Bunting: Another poor autumn for this sharply declining Scandinavian breeder, with just two recorded in autumn – on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 5^th October and Marsden Hall Quarry (County Durham) on 23^rd-24^th October.

Little Bunting: Following the first autumn arrival on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) on 23^rd September, at least 12 arrived on Shetland and Orkney during 24^th-29^th and singles elsewhere at Gun Hill (Norfolk) on 24^th, South Gare (Cleveland) on 24^th-26^th, Cresswell (Northumberland) on 25^th, Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 26^th, Portland Bill (Dorset) on 27^th, Emlin Moor (South Yorks) on 29^th and Portland Bill (Dorset) on 6^th October. Fifteen more then appeared in the Northern Isles in the first two weeks of October, with others elsewhere at South Shields (County Durham) on 13^th, Barra (Outer Hebrides) on 16^th, on the Farne Islands (Northumberland) on 22^nd-25^th, Bardsey Island (Gwynedd) on 23^rd, South Gare, Redcar (Cleveland) on 23^rd-24^th, on Lundy Island (Devon) on 24^th, at Burnham Overy Dunes (Norfolk) on 25^th-27^th, Easington (East Yorks) on 28^th and at Hawling (Gloucs) on 30^th. A few more appeared in November, including singles at Sedgeletch SF (County Durham) on 2^nd-8^th and near Skeffling (East Yorks) on 10^th, with two with Reed Buntings at Rosenannon Downs, near Wadebridge (Cornwall), on 28^th-30^th. The last of the year was at East Burrafirth (Shetland) on 7^th-10^th December.

Black-headed Bunting: an adult male was on North Ronaldsay (Orkney) from 5^th-13^th August.

Bobolink: In Shetland, a first-winter was at Brake, just north of Hillwell, on 28^th October.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak: On the Isles of Scilly, a first-winter male visited garden feeders in Rams Valley, Hugh Town, from 18^th-29^th December.

Lee G R Evans 4 February 2013 – LGREUK400@aol.com