It was another good year for Beaumonts with 126 species identified inside the park– the second highest yearlist total ever recorded. (The record was 127 species recorded in 2007)

Observer coverage in 2008 was particularly high, and the park was visited by one or more observers on almost every day of the year

In contrast to 2007 this was a poor year for waders. Two species which normally occur were not recorded at all - Common Sandpiper (Chevalier guignette) and Green Sandpiper (Chevalier cul-blanc)

On the positive side, however, this was a truly outstanding year for raptors, due undoubtedly to an increased number of ‘skywatching’ hours spent at the Cascade during spring and autumn when larger-than-usual numbers of Honey Buzzards, Marsh Harriers, Buzzards and Ospreys could be observed moving over the site, along with some of the rarer species (see appendix II)

Observers at Parc des Beaumonts in 2008 :

AB= Alain Bloquet AD= Anne-Laure Dussuchal AT= Alain Thellier BF= Benoit Fontaine BW= Bruno Walter DT= David Thorns JB= Julien Birard FC= Francois Chiron GL=Guilhem Lesaffre JR=Jean-Noel Rieffel LS= Laurent Spanneut MZ= Maxime Zucca PD= Pierre Delbove PM= Philip Redman, PR= Pierre Rousset SC= Stephane Chambris VB= Vincent van de Bor XJ= Xavier Japiot

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SYSTEMATIC LIST

The status symbols employed are those employed by Pierre Rousset in the original birdlist :

C = Captive (escape) E = Summer Visitor F = Feral
H = Winter Visitor M = Migrant S = Resident

Great Cormorant (Grand cormoran) Phalacrocorax carbo M

Although recorded on 17^th June (1), 30^th August (10), 31^st August (1) and 29^th December (9), observed mainly in March and September :
72 N, 8^th March - 92, 9^th March - 12, 14^th March - 70, 18^th March [all LS/PR]

Recorded regularly throughout September with a maxima of 169 on 22/9 [DT]

Observed far less frequently during October and the first half of November although a significant southward passage of 259 birds was noted on 30^th October [DT]

See Appendix I

Grey Heron (Héron cendré) Ardea cinerea S M

A lone individual was seen regularly (almost daily) throughout the year at the Mare Perchée. There were occasional sightings of 2-3 birds (eg: 29^th April, 6^th May, 5^th August, 24^th September)

Unusually a flock of 9 birds was observed in flight on 30^th August [LS]

LS observed an unfamiliar juvenile bird feeding at the Mare Perchée on 14^th November

White Stork (Cigogne blanche) Ciconia ciconia M

Observed migrating over the park on 3 dates (1 in spring, 2 in autumn)
4 NW, 3^rd April [LS/PR] - 1 S, 8^th September [DT] - 45 (one flock) S, 14^th September [DT/PR]

Black Stork (Cigogne noir) Ciconia niger M

1 spring record

1 gliding high northeastwards on 24^th April [DT]

Greylag Goose (Oie cendrée) Anser anser M

Observed on 6 dates

14 N, 13^th March [PR] - 12 SW, 8^th October [DT/PR] - 9 S, 23^rd October [PR] - 24 WSW, 28^th October [DT] - 220 SW, 13^th November [AB/DT] - Undetermined number flying south through fog, 2^nd December [LS/PR]

Canada Goose (Bernache du Canada) Branta canadensis F

Observed as flying flocks on 5 dates

5, 11^th September [LS/PR] - 17, 27^th September [DT] - 5, 18^th and 20^th October [DT] - 12, 26^th October [DT]

Mallard (Canard colvert) Anas platyrhynchos S M

A pair noted regularly at the Mare Perchée in late winter and spring, from 8^th February to 22^nd May. Number supplemented occasionally by additional birds (eg, 3 males on 5^th April) to a maximum of 8 on 10^th May. Presence in park somewhat erratic as easily disturbed by dogwalkers.

Common Teal (Sarcelle d’hiver) Anas crecca H

A flock of 8 birds flying east on 23^rd November [PR]

Osprey (Balbuzard pêcheur) Pandion haliaetus M
Like many of the raptors that follow, an exceptionally good year – recorded on 6 dates (1 in spring and 5 in autumn)

1 to the south of the park moving east along the river valley, 19^th March [PR] - 1 S, 6^th September [LS/PR] - 1 S, 9^th September [DT/LS] - 1 S, 11^th September [DT/PR] - 1 S, 14^th September [DT/PR] - 1 SW, 2^nd November [PR]

Red Kite (Milan royal) Milvus milvus M

Observed migrating over the park on 2 dates in autumn

1 S, 2^nd November [DT/PR] - 1 S, 4^th November [DT/LS]

Black Kite (Milan noir) Milvus migrans M

Observed on 2 dates in spring

1 S, 3^rd May [DT/PM] - 1 seen circling low over the Mare Perchée and moving away to the southeast, 7^th May [AB/DT]

Marsh Harrier (Busard des roseaux) Circus aeruginosus M

Recorded on 10 dates (3 in spring and 7 in autumn). At least 25 birds were involved (see Appendix II)

1, 4^th April - 1, 12^th April - 1, 19^th May

2, 8^th September - 2, 9^th September - 5, 12^th September - 1, 13^th September - 5, 14^th September - 6, 15^th September - 1, 8^th October

Interestingly the 5 birds moving south on 14^th September, although widely spaced apart, were observed simultaneously flying in single file [LS/PR]

One of the 6 birds noted the following day spent roughly 2 hours at the site, appearing to land in trees on at least 2 occasions [AB/DT/PR]

Hen Harrier (Busard Saint-Martin) Circus cyaneus M

Recorded on 4 dates in autumn

1 S, 18^th September [DT/PR] - 1 S, 28^th October [DT/PR] - 3 S, 4^th
November [DT/LS] - 1 S, 22^nd November [PR]

Two of the three birds seen on 4^th November were phtographed [LS] and may be consulted on the photo section of the website :

http://www.skutchia.com/apps/photos/

Montagu’s Harrier (Busard cendré) Circus pygargus M

Previously unrecorded at Beaumonts, a non-adult female was seen circling over the park and moving south on 22^nd September [DT]

Interestingly 2 unidentified harriers, suspected as being probably c.pygargus, were noted flying south on 31^st August [LS] and 9^th September [DT]

Common Buzzard (Buse variable) Buteo buteo M

Recorded on 27 dates:
5 in ‘spring’ (between 4^th April and 9^th May)
4 in ‘summer’ (between 12^th July and 14^th August)
18 in ‘autumn’ (between 30^th August and 23^rd November)

2, 4^th April - 1, 5^th April - 2, 24^th April - 2, 8^th May - 1, 9^th May - 1, 12^th July - 1, 27^th July - 1, 11^th August - 1, 14^th August - 1, 30^th August - 2, 8^th September - 2, 16^th September - 2, 19^th September - 2, 24^th September - 3, 26^th September - 1, 27^th September - 3, 28^th September - 4, 4^th October - 1, 28^th October - 1, 30^th October - 1, 2^nd November - 1, 3^rd November - 3, 4^th November - 1, 7^th November - 1, 8^th November - 1, 11^th November - 1, 25^th November

See Apprendix II

Honey-Buzzard (Bondrée apivore) Pernis apivorus M

Recorded on 24 dates, 4 of which were in spring (between 17^th – 25^th May) and 20 in autumn (from 15^th August to 25^th September). At least 78 birds were involved

1, 17^th May - 2, 18^th May - 2, 22^nd May - 8, 25^th May - 10, 15^th August - 4, 16^th August - 1, 17^th August - 1, 19^th August - 3, 21^st August - 2, 28^th August - 5, 30^th August - 2, 31^st August - 2, 1^st September - 2, 8^th September - 6, 9^th September - 3, 10^th September 2, 11^th September - 1, 12^th September - 7, 13^th September - 9, 14^th September - 1, 15^th September - 2, 16^th September - 1, 21^st September 1, 25^th September

See Appendix II

Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Epervier d’Europe) Accipiter nisus S
Regularly recorded (usually between 1-3 individuals) throughout the year. Breeding presumed for a second consecutive year in the woodland bordering the Parc Mabille – at least 2 juveniles were seen and heard (begging calls) in this area during the latter half of August (as was the case in 2007)

Unidentified larger raptors (Grands rapaces non identifié)

1, 8^th March - 3, 8^th May - 1, 30^th May - 4, 23^rd July - 2, 29^th July - 2, 12^th September - 2, 18^th September - 1, 19^th September
See Appendix II

Eurasian Kestrel (Faucon crécerelle) Falco tinnunculus S M

Although not a breeding species, 1 or 2 birds were seen on an almost daily basis in the park. Numbers supplemented in late summer and autumn by additional birds, no doubt roaming juveniles and occasional migrants (eg, 3+ on 17^th June, 3 on 28^th August – at least 3 birds regularly noted throughout September). On 11^th September (a particularly hot and still day) at least 7 birds were observed flying high in the sky, appearing to form a loose group and apparently feeding on insects [DT/PR]

Red-footed Falcon (Faucon kobez) Falco verspertinus M

1 spring record

1 male (probably 2^nd year) seen hunting over the park on 23^rd May, spending about 25 minutes around the site before moving away westwards [PR]

An unidentified falcon, suspected to be probably f.verspertinus, was observed flying north on 30^th May [LS/PR]
An unidentified juvenile falcon, possibly f.verspertinus, was seen migrating south on 4^th October [DT]

Record numbers of f.verspertinus were recorded nationally in spring 2008, and it is therefore a little surprising that Beaumonts did not have any more !

Eurasian Hobby (Faucon hobereau) Falco subbuteo E M

1-2 birds recorded relatively frequently in spring, summer and autumn
First recorded in spring on 3^rd May [PR] - last autumn sighting 7^th October [DT]

Though not a breeding species at Beaumonts, wandering ‘local’ birds could be seen reasonably often in summer and early autumn, with 1-2 birds (including juveniles) seen on an almost daily basis between 29^th August and 16^th September. During this time birds could be seen drifting in towards the park and hunting down the local swifts – quite a spectacle !

Peregrine Falcon (Faucon pèlerin) Falco peregrinus M

1 autumn record

1 adult on 12^th September [LS/PR]

One of the highlights of the year, the bird was watched flying in from the north and then circling relatively low over the park before moving away west

Merlin (Faucon émerillon) Falco columbarius M

2 records in late autumn

1 flying south on 11^th November [DT] - 1 seen in the vicinity of the watertower on 22^nd November [PR]

Common Moorhen (Poule d’eau) Gallinula chloropus S

A familiar resident breeding species, seen on a daily basis throughout the year

Although 2 pairs were present in the park on 14^th May, only one pair successfully bred at the Mare Perchée, producing 5 young. The chicks appeared for the first time in early June

Common Crane (Grue cendrée) Grus grus M

Observed on 2 dates in spring

21 NE, 8^th March [LS/PR] - 14, 9^th March [LS/PR]

The birds on 8^th March appeared in 2 groups of 16 and 5 birds, seen at 12h40 and 17h25 respectively

Eurasian Golden Plover (Pluvier doré) Pluvialis apricaria M

Observed on 4 dates, in late winter and late autumn
35 S, 22^nd February [LS] - 2 SW, 23^rd October [LS] - 10 SW, 8^th November [DT/PR] - 16 S, 9^th November [DT/PR]

Northern Lapwing (Vanneau huppé) Vanellus vanellus M

Observed moving generally in a southwesterly direction on 6 dates in late autumn, the largest numbers being on 2^nd November
1, 30^th October - 466, 2^nd November - 1, 3^rd November - 159, 4^th November 70, 11^th November - 2, 13^th November

Black-tailed Godwit (Barge à queue noire) Limosa limosa M

1 observation in spring

22 flying north on 29^th February [LS]

Eurasian Curlew (Courlis cendré) Numenius arquata M

1 observation in late autumn

150 seen flying south in a long, loose flock at 14h30 on 22^nd November [PR]

Eurasian Woodcock (Bécasse des bois) Scolopax rusticola M

2 observations of single birds in flight

1, 19^th April [DT] - 1, 2^nd December [DT]

Common Snipe (Bécassine des marais) Gallinago gallinago M

1 record in autumn

2 (one on the ground and another flying southwards) on 28^th September [GL/JR]

Black-headed Gull (Mouette rieuse) Larus ridibundus S M

Recorded somewhat erratically in low numbers throughout the year, with generally 1-10 birds noted as either singles or as very small flocks. Only rarely observed in late summer (August and early September). Higher numbers sometimes noted (eg, 20 E, 25^th July - 23, 29^th September - 22, 28^th October - 22, 16^th November)

Unusually on 13^th February, and again in late autumn and winter, single birds (or perhaps the same individual) were frequently observed landing inside the park to feed, either at the Mare Perchée or on the Northern Fields

Common Gull (Goéland cendré) Larus canus M

Recorded on 3 dates

1 N, 9^th March [PR] - 1 NE, 29^th September [DT] - 2 E, 1^st November [PR]

Herring Gull (Goéland argenté) Larus argentatus S M

Regularly recorded in very small numbers (usually 1-2 birds) throughout the year, although larger numbers reported during the winter months (eg, c7, 20^th January [DT] - 7 on 23^rd February with a further 58 larger gulls unidentified [LS])

Yellow-legged Gull (Goéland leucophée) Larus michahellis M

Like the preceeding species, seen in very small numbers throughout the year. Notable movements in early summer (eg, 108 on 28^th June)

1, 12^th January [PR] - 1, 9^th March [PR] - 1, 8^th June [LS] - 7 E, 11^th June [LS] - 108, 28^th June [LS] - 1, 1^st July [PR] - 2, 12^th July [PR]

Lesser Black-backed Gull (Goéland brun) Larus fuscus M

Recorded in small numbers throughout the year.

5, 26^th January [DT] - 2 N, 10^th February [PR] - 1, 23^rd February [LS] - 1, 13^th April - 1, 13^th July [PR] - 1, 15^th September - 7 SW, 6^th December [DT/LS]

Unidentified larger gulls (Goéland indéterminé) Larus spp

Gull ID is tricky and many are left unidentified. Very small numbers regularly seen throughout the year (less often in late summer), with occasionally larger groupings (eg, 20 on 17^th February and 58 on 23^rd February [LS])

Rock Dove (Pigeon biset) Columba livia S

Common resident – seen daily

Stock Dove (Pigeon colombin) Columba oenas S

First reported on 17^th February [LS]. A non-breeding, reasonably common resident. Observed fairly regularly throughout the year in very low numbers (usually 1-3 birds), either in flight or perched on buildings to the north-east of (and outside) the park

Common Wood-Pigeon (Pigeon ramier) Columba palumbus S M

Common breeding resident – seen daily

Large groupings of feeding birds occasionally noted (eg, 115 counted on the Northern Fields on the early morning of 4^th October, 55 of which were juveniles [PD]

An interesting visible southward migration of c.palumbus occurred in early November :
2^nd November - 980 (600 of which passed in a 40 minute period in the late afternoon) [PR]
3^rd November – 2700 between 08h30-10h30 (including one flock of 900) [LS/PR]

4^th November – 1270 between 08h00-14h30 [DT/LS]

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Tourterelle turque) Streptopelia decaocto S

Fairly common non-breeding resident. 1-2 birds regularly observed in flight or (rarely) perched in trees at the Mare Perchée or the re-cycling plant

Eurasian Turtle-Dove (Tourterelle des bois) Streptopelia turtur M

Normally a relatively uncommon passage-migrant, this species was recorded on 7 dates (firstly on 28^th April and lastly on 8^th September). The 3 records in August suggest local movements from breeding birds nearby

1, 28^th April [DT] - 2 flying south, 19^th May [DT] - 1, 25^th May [LS] - 1, 5^th August [DT] - 1, 14^th August [PR] - 1, 30^th August [LS] - 1, 8^th September [DT]

Common Cuckoo (Coucou gris) Cuculus canorus M

1 in the evening of August 10^th [PR]

Tawny Owl (Chouette hulotte) Strix aluco S

Sadly no longer heard in the park as in previous years. Recorded on 2 dates

1 at 18h45 on 23^rd October, harassed by magpies as it flapped over the Mare Perchée and the Savanna [PR] - 1 in the Savanna throughout the morning of 26^th November [DT]

Long-eared Owl (Hibou moyen-duc) Asio otus M

Recorded on 2 dates

1 seen and photographed as it perched in trees during the day on 22^nd January [VB] - 1 seen flying in from the south and apparently landing in conifers before circling and moving away west – 15^th March [LS/PR]

A photograph of the bird on January 22^nd appeared in the local newspaper, the Montreuil Dépêche (n° 466 / 13-19 February 2008).

Short-eared Owl (Hibou des marais) Asio flammeus M

Recorded on 2 dates

1 present throughout the morning of 19^th April [DT/PR] – 1 flying low over the park and moving away southeast at 09h20 on 2^nd November [PR]

Video footage of the bird on 19^th April may be consulted on the website : www.skutchia.com/videos.htm

Barn Owl (Chouette effraie) Tyto alba M

1 on 16^th October [DT]

Extremely rare at Beaumonts, this was one of the highlights of the year. The bird was discovered in the Savanna, perched in a small low tree and almost completely hidden. It remained so throughout the entire day, was not seen to fly at dusk and had disappeared by the following morning.

Video footage of the bird may be seen on the website (www.skutchia.com/videos.htm)

Common Swift (Martinet noir) Apus apus E M

A common summer visitor, seen daily

First recorded on 22^nd April [DT]. Last recorded on 9^th September [DT/LS/PR]

Generally around 50 birds seen daily throughout the latter part of April to mid-July. Notable increase in numbers during the 3^rd and 4^th weeks of July when the local populations are presumably swollen by juveniles (eg, 400+ on 23^rd July, 200+ on 26^th July)

Much lower numbers during the 1^st half of August (around 20-40 birds daily) and it is assumed that many of the local birds leave during this period. By the 3^rd week of August the birds recorded gave the impression of being migrants, and local populations were adjudged to have largely left the area

A small increase to 30 birds (presumably migrants) 19^th August constituted the last double-figure-day, with daily numbers then dropping to around 5-6 birds until the end of the month.

None was seen between 1^st-8^th September. The last sign of life was of 2 distant migrants, moving south with other hirundines during the early morning of 9^th September.

Rose-ringed Parakeet (Perruche à collier) Psittacula krameri F

Absent during the 1^st half of the year. First recorded on 28^th August [DT]

Observed on 11 dates (2 in August, 6 in October, 2 in November and 1 in December)

Observations usually consist of small groups of around 4-5 birds flying noisily overhead (generally to the northeast). The largest single group was of 12 birds on 17^th October [DT]

Cockatiel (Calopsitte élegante) Nymphicus hollandicus C

Observed flying over the park on 2 dates (presumably the same individual is involved)

1, 18^th August [DT] - 1, 4^th October [DT/PD]

[ Unidentified cagebird spp ] C

Un unidentified cagebird, suspected as belonging to the agapornis genus was heard and subsequently poorly observed in the park on August 9^th [DT/PR]

Green Woodpecker (Pic vert) Picus viridis S

At least one resident breeding pair in or around the park – seen or heard almost daily throughout the year. 1 or more juveniles noted regularly during the autumn. 3 birds feeding together on the Northern Fields on 29^th October [PR]

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Pic épeiche) Dendrocopos major S

At least one resident breeding pair in or around the park – seen or heard almost daily throughout the year

Middle Spotted Woodpecker (Pic mar) Dendrocopos medius H

1, 29^th October [PR]

A rare bird at Beaumonts. The occasional (and almost annual) record suggests wandering individuals from nearby, most probably from the Bois de Vincennes where d.medius may be found relatively easily

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (Pic épeichette) Dendrocopos minor M

A rather discreet resident, presumed breeding. Few records, and very rarely recorded during spring and summer (eg, just heard once (on 3^rd August) between 6^th February and 27^th September [DT]

Eurasian Wryneck (Torcol) Jynx torquilla M

1 record in autumn

1, 1^st September [DT/LS/PR]

Sky Lark (Alouette des champs) Alauda arvensis M

Common spring and autumn passage migrant. In spring, first recorded (10 birds) on February 24^th [LS]. First recorded in autumn on 14^th October and small flocks then noted daily throughout the latter half of October, numbers peaking at 144 birds on 26^th October [DT/PR]. Numbers dropped sharply after 4^th November, and the last observation of the year was of a singleton on 16^th November [DT]

Although normally observed in flight, a.arvensis was seen on 2 occasions to land inside the park this year, once in spring on 15^th March [LS/PR] and again in autumn on 18^th October [AD/DT/FC/MZ]

Woodlark (Alouette lulu) Lullula arborea M

Regular passage migrant in spring and autumn, although much scarcer than the preceding species. First noted on 24^th February (3 birds) [LS/PR].
First recorded in autumn on 4^th October (6 birds) [DT]. A flock of 10 birds flying southwest on 11^th November was the last sighting of the year [DT]

Like the previous species, l.arborea is normally seen in flight and so it is worth mentioning the behaviour of a singleton on 23^rd October which, having circled low around the Mare Perchée, eventually dropped onto the flat waste-ground nearby where it stood, completely motionless, for several minutes

Bank Swallow (Hirondelle de rivage) Riparia riparia E M

Seen more frequently in 2008 than in previous years, no doubt due to increased observer coverage, particularly during the summer months.

Traditionally more an autumn bird than a spring bird, this year was no exception with only one spring record, on 3^rd May [DT]

Interestingly r.riparia was observed at the park (usually 1-4 birds) throughout the summer, with 4 records in July (24^th, 25^th, 27^th, 30^th ) and 5 records in August (16^th,17^th, 18^th, 19^th, 30^th ). Although these birds generally appeared to be in local flight, the 2 birds noted on 27^th July were perceived to be actively migrating south.

A singleton was observed on 10^th September and another a few days later, on 19^th September, was the last reported in 2008

Barn Swallow (Hirondelle de cheminée) Hirundo rustica E M

Common passage migrant in spring and autumn. Present in low numbers throughout the summer (breeding in near vicinity)

First recorded in spring on 15^th March [LS/PR]. Interestingly the second spring sighting came more than 2 weeks later, on 3^rd April ! Small numbers daily in spring with a peak of 20 counted on 3^rd May [DT]

Small numbers reported throughout the summer (usually less than 5 birds). 6 birds noted on 27^th July were considered to be actively migrating south (as was the case with 2 Bank Swallows also observed that day - see above). Numbers bolstered considerably for short periods during the autumn migration with peaks of 103 birds counted on 30^th August and 345 on 10^th September [DT]

The last sighting was of 2 birds migranting south on 5^th October [DT]

Red-rumped Swallow (Hirondelle rousseline) Cecropis daurica M

1, 25^th April [DT]

Constituting the first record for Ile de France, this was without doubt the ornithological highlight of the year. Unfortunately the bird was in active migration and did not stay long enough for the other local observers who so deserved a look.

An article on the sighting is published, in French, on the website of ESSF (http://www.europe-solidaire.org/spip.php?article10365)

House Martin (Hirondelle de fenêtre) Delichon urbicum E M

Passage migrant in spring and autumn. Small numbers present throughout the summer

First recorded (3 birds) on 25^th April [DT] – a rather late start. Small numbers (usually less than 5 birds) seen on most days throughout the spring with a peak of 15 seen migrating northeast on 21^st May [DT]

During the summer (late July–early August) seen rather more frequently than h.rustica, albeit in low numbers

Low numbers throughout the autumn migration (nothing like those reported for h.rustica) with a peak of 37 moving south on 10^th September [DT]. In the late autumn d.urbicum was curiously absent on many days (eg, only noted on 3 dates between 11^th September – 4^th October)

The last sighting was of a singleton on 4^th October

Tawny Pipit (Pipit rousseline) Anthus campestris M

Birds actively migrating south were recorded on 2 consecutive early mornings in autumn

2, 8^th September [DT/LS/PR] - 3, 9^th September [DT/LS/PR]

Meadow Pipit (Pipit farlouse) Anthus pratensis M

A fairly common passage migrant in spring and (especially) autumn

First recorded in spring on 8^th March [LS/PR]. Small numbers on subsequent days (usually singles) peaking with 22 on 6^th April [LS]. Last spring migrant noted on 28^th May [DT]

Absent during the summer, with no reports between 28^th May - 13^th September

First reported in autumn on 13^th September [DT/LS]. Small numbers throughout the autumn with a peak of 29+ on 4^th October. Last sighting on 16^th November [DT]

Tree Pipit (Pipit des arbres) Anthus trivialis M

Reasonably common passage migrant in spring and autumn

First recorded in spring on 12^th April [PR]. 1-3 birds seen on only 10 further dates up to and including 17^th May

Absent during the summer - not reported between 17^th May and 30^th August

First autumn record on 30^th August. 1-6 birds subsequently seen on most days up to 4^th October. A very late bird was observed on site on 20^th and 22^nd October (possibly the same individual) [DT]

White Wagtail (Bergeronnette grise) Motacilla alba M

A not-uncommon passage migrant in spring and (especially) autumn
Very few reported in spring.

First reported (3 birds) on 24^th February [LS] and subsequently 2 on 5^th March, 2 on 14^th March and 9 on 15^th March [LS/PR]

Absent during the summer apart from one sighting, possibly a migrant, on July 27^th [DT]

Autumn migration started proper with 4 on 24^th September [DT] and then small numbers observed on several dates up to and including 11^th November, with a peak of 17 noted on 19^th October [DT]

Yellow Wagtail (Bergeronnette printanière) Motacilla flava M

Passage migrant noted in spring and (especially) autumn

Only 2 spring records: 1,4^th April - 1, 6^th April [both LS/PR]

Narrow window of autumn passage between 1^st- 15^th September, with small numbers moving south in the early mornings, a notable peak in numbers occuring between 8-10^th September (13, 8^th - 37, 9^th - 9, 10^th)

Grey Wagtail (Bergeronnette des ruisseaux) Motacilla cinerea S

A rather uncommon and irregular non-breeding resident

Apart from one sighting on 30^th January [PR], not recorded in the park until 28^th August when small numbers (1-3 birds) began to be noted up to and including 29^th November. Seen on almost every day between 8^th September – 26^th October [DT]

Winter Wren (Troglodyte mignon) Troglodytes troglodytes S

Fairly common breeding resident - seen daily. At least 7 breeding pairs estimated

Dunnock (Accenteur mouchet) Prunella modularis S M

Common breeding resident – seen daily. At least 6 breeding pairs estimated

Interestingly discreet at the end of the breeding season (roughly between 14^th June – 17^th August) when hard to find and rarely recorded. Numbers swollen in the last 3 weeks of September by presumed migrants (eg, 10+ on 12^th September [DT])

European Robin (Rougegorge familier) Erithacus rubecula S M

Common breeding resident – 1-4 birds seen almost daily. At least 5 breeding pairs estimated

Like the preceding species, increased numbers in autumn (roughly between 15^th September – 23^rd October), probably due to passage migrants (eg, 10 on 17^th September and 10 on 14^th October [DT]

Common Nightingale (Rossignol philomèle) Luscinia megarhynchos M

Heard on 2 consecutive dates in spring, and once in autumn

1 heard singing on 19^th and 20^th April [DT/PR] - 1 heard (calls) on 13^th September [DT/LS]

Black Redstart (Rougequeue noir) Phoenicurus ochruros M

Rather irregular and uncommon migrant. Absent during the summer (although breeding in the immediate vicinity of the park)

Noted on 5 dates in spring. More frequently recorded in autumn (up to 5 birds)

2, 20^th March [PR] - 1, 4^th April [LS/PR] - 1, 5^th April [LS] - 1, 26^th April [DT] - 2, 3^rd May [DT]

First recorded in autumn on 13^th September [DT/LS/PR]. 1, 29^th September [DT] - 1, 4^th October [DT]. Subsequently 1-5 birds seen almost daily between 14^th October – 4^th November (the last sighting in 2008)

Common Redstart (Rougequeue à front blanc) Phoenicurus phoenicurus M

Uncommon migrant. Observed once in spring and on several dates in autumn

1, 20^th May [PR]

1, 4^th September [LS]. 1-3 birds were subsequently seen daily up to and including 5^th October [DT]

Northern Wheatear (Traquet motteux) Oenanthe oenanthe M

1 autumn record

1, 8^th September [LS/DT/PR]

Whinchat (Tarier des prés) Saxicola rubetra M
Uncommon passage migrant. 8 records (1 in spring and 7 in autumn)

1, 9^th May [DT]

1, 30^th August [DT] - 3, 9^th September [DT/PR] - 1, 11^th September [DT] - 1, 19^th September [DT] - 1, 26-28^th September [DT]

Common Stonechat (Traquet pâtre) Saxicola torquata M

A disturbingly poor year for a species which until quite recently bred inside the park – just 1 record in late autumn

1, 30^th October [DT/LS]

Ring Ouzel (Merle à plastron) Turdus torquatus M

4 records – 1 in spring and 3 in autumn

1, 25^th April [DT]

1, 18^th October [DT] - 1, 24^th October [PR] - 1, 29^th October [PR]

Eurasian Blackbird (Merle noir) Turdus merula S M

Common resident – 1-6 birds seen daily. At least 6 breeding pairs estimated

Active migration noted in early November : 5 south, 3^rd November [LS/PR] – 13 south, 4^th November [DT/LS]

Fieldfare (Grive litorne) Turdus pilaris H M

Rather uncommon. 2 sightings in January. No further sightings before the latter half of October when noted occasionally in small numbers. 2-4 birds present on site around the Savanna between 17^th November – 5^th December

5, 1^st January - 7, 5^th January - 3+, 18^th October - 29, 19^th October - 8, 30^th October - 2, 31^st October - 1, 8^th November - 2-4, 17^th November-5^th December

Song Thrush (Grive musicienne) Turdus philomelos S M

Common, if rather discreet, breeding resident with 1-3 birds seen on most days – estimated 3 breeding pairs

Passage migrants increase the numbers observed in late autumn, from roughly 13^th September through to 4^th November, when double figures noted on several dates (peak of 33 on 24^th October [DT/PR])

Redwing (Grive mauvis) Turdus iliacus H M

Reasonably common migrant in late autumn – uncommon on site during the winter

2 records in January (1, 5^th – 1, 20^th) and observed twice in February (17^th and 22^nd [LS]). 6 (including 5 perched on site) on 14^th March [LS].
Not recorded subsequently until 14^th October when migrants began to arrive and were recorded in low numbers almost daily up to and including 2^nd December. Migration peak during the last week of October (eg, 18 on 23^rd - 23 on 24^th - 73 on 28^th - 103 on 30^th)

Mistle Thrush (Grive draine) Turdus viscivorus S M

Reasonably common resident with 1-3 birds seen almost daily in early spring, autumn and winter. Estimated 1-2 breeding pairs either in or very close to the park. Very infrequently observed during late spring and summer (eg, only seen on 8 dates between April 21^st – 1^st September [DT] )

Small numbers of migrants increase numbers slightly in late autumn (eg, 5 moving southwest on 28^th October [DT/PR] )

Garden Warbler (Fauvette des jardins) Sylvia borin E M

Reasonably common summer visitor – estimated 3-4 breeding pairs
First recorded in spring on 22^th April [DT]. Very discreet and rarely recorded during summer (roughly between 15^th June and 1^st September). 1-2 birds seen on several dates in early September. Last reported on 15^th September [DT]

Blackcap (Fauvette à tête noire) Sylvia atricapilla H E M

Unusually present throughout January and February with a male found near the entrance steps on 1^st January [DT]. A second male was found on 8^th February [PR] and both birds were heard singing up to and including 16^th February [LS/PR]

Common throughout the spring and summer with up to 6 birds seen daily (although seen less frequently during the first 3 weeks of August)
Numbers swollen considerably by migrants in late autumn with up to 30 birds regularly noted throughout September. Significantly fewer reported in early October (up to 6 daily). Last seen on 28^th October [DT]

Lesser Whitethroat (Fauvette babillarde) Sylvia curruca E M

Uncommon summer visitor. 1 breeding pair in the park (for the 3^rd consecutive year)

First observed on 21^st April [DT]. Relatively easily seen at the end of April and the beginning of May but extremely discreet and hard to find after about 17^th May

A pair feeding a juvenile near the Mare Perchée on 8^th June [LS]

1 was observed on 19^th August [DT] and another on 1^st September [LS/PR] was the last confirmed sighting for the year (although a poorly-seen sylvia warbler in the Savanna on 22^nd September was believed to be this species [DT])

Common Whitethroat (Fauvette grisette) Sylvia communis E

Common summer visitor with up to 6 birds seen daily in spring and early autumn (last week in August and first 2 weeks of September). Discreet and infrequently seen during July and early August. Estimated 5 breeding pairs

First recorded in spring on 13^th April [LS]. Last reported on 24^th September [DT]

Eurasian Reed-Warbler (Rousserolle effarvatte) Acrocephalus scirpaceus E M

Summer visitor, seen or heard daily throughout the late spring and summer. One pair bred successfully in the reedbed at the Mare Perchée
First recorded in spring with a bird singing discreetly near the Coffee Dome on 15^th May [DT]. At least 2 birds were present on 8^th June [LS]. 3 singing birds noted on 15^th June were presumed to be 2 males and a female [DT]. An adult was observed feeding 2 juveniles on 14^th July [LS].

Between 1-4 birds noted almost daily up to 24^th September, usually at the reedbed although birds could also be observed flying back and forth between there and the tall weeds growing in the Savanna nearby.

A very warm and different-looking individual, presumed to be a migrant, was found skulking in the Mare de Mileu on July 30^th [LS]. The bird was seen again a few days later on August 5^th [DT].

1 individual remained very late at the Mare Perchée and was trapped and ringed there on 11^th October [JB/BF/MZ]. The bird remained a further 3 days and was last observed there on 14^th October [DT]

Marsh Warbler (Rousserolle verderolle) Acrocephalus palustris E M

1-2 birds seen and heard singing between 20^th May and 15^th June. Not definitely observed after this date and breeding unconfirmed
1, 20^th May [PR] - 1, 25^th May [LS] - 2, 31^st May [PR] - 1, 8^th June [LS] - 1, 14^th June [DT] - 2, 15^th June [DT]

A silent, unidentified bird in the Savanna on 24^th June was believed to have been probably a.palustris [DT]

Melodious Warbler (Hypolaïs polyglotte) Hippolais polyglotta E M

Reasonably common summer visitor. Estimated 3 breeding pairs

First reported in spring on 1^st May [PR]. On 25^th June an adult was observed carrying food to a nest near the Compost and a very young and tail-less juvenile was seen in the Savanna.

As in previous years H.polyglotta appeared to quickly desert the park after breeding – the species was not recorded at all in July and August, and not found on migration

Willow Warbler (Pouillot fitis) Phylloscopus trochilus E M

Normally a fairly common breeding species, this was a particularly bad year. Probably did not breed inside the park and very seldomly observed in spring and summer. Several records post-breeding

Brief snatches of song were heard at the end of April (28^th, 29^th and 30^th) [DT]. 1 heard on 6^th May [DT]. Visually observed for the first time on 15^th May when a single bird was found moving quickly and silently around the Parc Mabille [DT]

Observed in summer on 5 dates, albeit after the breeding season: 1, 24^th July - 2 juveniles, 31^st July - 1, 5^th August - 1 heard, 6^th August - 1, 8^th August [all DT]

In autumn recorded on 7 dates (usually singles) between 8^th – 27^th September (the last reported sighting)

Wood Warbler (Pouillot siffleur) Phylloscopus sibilatrix M

1 singing on 11^th May [DT/PR]

Common Chiffchaff (Pouillot véloce) Phylloscopus collybita E M

Common summer visitor, seen daily. Estimated 7 breeding pairs

1^st reported (singing) on 8^th March [LS/PR]. Generally up to 6 birds seen daily in spring and summer. Increased numbers during autumn with the arrival of migrants, peaking around 23^rd and 24^th September when at least 15 birds could be seen. Marked drop in numbers after 17^th October. Low numbers (2-3 birds) after this date, up to and including 8^th November when ‘autumn migration’ appeared to halt

Only 3 subsequent ‘winter’ records: 1, 17^th November [DT] - 3, 27^th November [LS] - 1, 6^th December [DT]

[‘Siberian Chiffchaff’ (Pouillot de Sibérie) Phylloscopus collybita tristis M]
1, 24^th February [LS]

No doubt the same individual as last year, the identification of which is still open to question. Identification discussion (with photographs of this individual) may be found at the following :
http://www.ornithomedia.com/pratique/identif/ident_art63_1.htm

Furthermore, sound recordings (taken in 2007) may be consulted at :
http://www.skutchia.com/pdb.htm

Goldcrest (Roitelet huppé) Regulus regulus S M

Present in small numbers throughout the year, although mainly observed during late autumn and winter. At least one breeding pair confirmed
1-2 birds seen almost daily in January. Seen very infrequently between early February and mid-September. Small numbers seen with regularity from mid-September to the end of the year (usually 1-2 birds but occasionally much higher numbers noted (eg, 8 on 6^th November, 7 on 2^nd December [DT]) )

An adult, presumably a female, was observed feeding 4 juveniles on 15^th June [LS]

Firecrest (Roitelet triple-bandeau) Regulus ignicapillus S M

Rather uncommon resident. Breeding suspected but not confirmed

Present in winter with 3 records in January and 1 noted on 6^th February. In March a pair was noted on 9^th, 15^th and 16^th [DT]. A singing male was observed in the woodland adjacent to and just east of the Avenue des Marroniers on 28^th April and 3^rd May [DT]. 1 on 20^th June [DT]. Not observed in July or August

In autumn, 1-2 birds seen with regularity from 1^st September – 8^th November (the last reported sighting in 2008). Higher numbers occasionally noted during this period (eg, 3+ on 15^th September and 5+ on 16^th September [DT])

Spotted Flycatcher (Gobemouche gris) Muscicapa striata M

Passage migrant in spring and autumn. Singles recorded twice in spring and 1-4 birds reported on 11 dates in autumn between 29^th August – 20^th September

1, 30^th April [DT] - 1, 19^th May [DT]

1, 29^th August - 3 on 1^st & 2^nd September - 4, 3^rd September - 3, 4^th September - 2, 8^th September - 1, 9^th September - 2, 10^th September - 3, 12^th September - 1, 15^th September - 1, 20^th September

European Pied Flycatcher (Gobemouche noir) Ficedula hypoleuca M

Passage migrant recorded once in spring and on 20 dates in autumn between 14^th August – 28^th October

1, 3^rd May [DT]

1, 14^th August [DT/PR] – 1-3 birds then recorded on 15 dates up to and including 26^th September when autumn passage appeared to finish

A late migrant was present for 4 consecutive days near the Mare de Mileu, from 25^th – 28^th October [AB/DT/PR].

Photographs of the bird from 25^th-28^th October may be seen on the website
http://www.skutchia.com/apps/photos/album.jsp?albumID=2931743

Great Tit (Mésange charbonnière) Parus major S M

Common breeding resident – 1-6 birds seen daily

Coal Tit (Mésange noire) Parus ater H M

Normally rare at Beaumonts, an ‘invasion’ of p.ater into northern France in late autumn generated larger-than-usual numbers

1, 6^th April [LS]. Not seen subsequently until 25^th September when LS found 2 birds moving southwest which appeared to be in active migration.
Small numbers were then seen on 11 further dates up to and including 13^th November. During this period restless little groups could be observed flying generally westsouthwest, often perching momentarily in trees before hurrying onwards

2, 25^th September [LS] - 1, 11^th October [JB/BF/MZ] - 15+ in 3 small groups, 14^th October [DT] - 18+, 18^th October [AD/DT/FC/MZ] - 10, 20^th October [AD/DT/MZ] - 3, 23^rd October [DT/LS/PR] - 2, 24^th October [DT/PR] - 2, 27^th October [DT] - 6, 28^th October [DT] - 1 S, 4^th November [DT/LS] - 2, 12^th November [LS] - 2, 13^th November [DT]

The last sighting in 2008 was of a singleton observed in the Northern Fields on 27^th December [PR]

Eurasian Blue Tit (Mésange bleue) Parus caeruleus S M

Common resident, usually up to 6 birds seen daily. Also migratory -increased numbers noted (double-figures almost daily) between mid-September and early November. Occasional visible migration noted in late autumn during skywatches (eg, 4 WSW on 4^th October – 8 WSW on 23^rd October – 2 S on 3^rd & 4^th November)

Marsh Tit (Mésange nonnette) Parus palustris S

Uncommon non-breeding resident. Found more frequently than in previous years due to the occurrence of 4 colour-ringed individuals which had been released in late summer in the nearby Parc des Guilands. One of these birds paired with another (non-ringed) individual and both could be found regularly along or near the Avenue de Maronniers from 20^th September to the end of the year

First seen on 27^th July [DT]. Reported on a further 21 dates up to the end of the year

Summary of observations of colour-ringed birds (L=left leg /R=right leg):

BIRD 1 = L 1 silver / R 1 (reddish? – poorly seen) : 1 obs, 5^th August
BIRD 2 = L 1 large, dark pink /R 1 small, silver : 1 obs, 18^th October
BIRD 3 = L 1 white, large /R 2 brownish-red(upper) – silver(lower) First seen on 1^st September with at least 5 further obs before end of year – established residency in park with non-ringed bird (see above)
BIRD 4 = L 1, dull reddish-brown/R 2 orange(upper) – silver(lower) : 2 obs, on 10^th & 12^th September

Long-tailed Tit (Mésange à longue queue) Aegithalos caudatus S

Fairly common resident - breeding unconfirmed, although probably occurred in the immediate vicinity around the rue des Quatre Ruelles

Up to 5 birds seen almost daily in January through to 21^st May. In accordance with previous years, a.caudatus was then largely absent throughout the late spring and summer, appearing again on 8^th September when rather higher numbers (up to 8 birds) could be seen regularly up to the end of the year

Eurasian Nuthatch (Sittelle torchepot) Sitta europaea S

Few records - inexplicably scarce at Beaumonts. Species has declined over recent years

1 seen flying over the Savanna on 2 occasions on 13^th April [LS]

1-2 birds seen in or very near Parc Mabille on 5 dates in September (10^th, 12^th, 22^nd, 26^th, 29^th) and on 3 dates in October (2^nd, 14^th,24^th)

Short-toed Treecreeper (Grimpereau des jardins) Certhia brachydactyla S

Quite common resident. 1-2 birds seen or heard regularly throughout the year. Probably at least 2 breeding pairs

Common Magpie (Pie bavarde) Pica pica S

Common breeding resident, seen daily

Eurasian Jay (Geai des chênes) Garrulus glandarius S M

Quite common breeding resident, usually 1-3 birds seen daily

Evidence of migration in autumn (particularly around 10-15^th September) with occasional singles or small groups flapping feebly at high altitude over the park (eg, 16 WSW, 15^th September - 6 SSE, 4^th October)

Eurasian Jackdaw (Choucas des tours) Corvus monedula M

Uncommon – seen flying over the park in small flocks of up to 43 birds on 9 dates: 1 in spring, 8 in late autumn and once in winter
1, 29^th March [PR]

70 S, 18^th October [DT] - 12 SW, 19^th October [DT] - 8, 23^rd October [DT/PR] - 3 N, 24^th October [DT/PR] - 25, 28^th October [DT/PR] - 11 S, 2^nd November [DT/PR] - 8 S, 3^rd November [LS/PR] - 3 SW, 4^th November [DT/LS]

2 W, 26^th December [PR]

Rook (Corbeau freux) Corvus frugilegus M

Like the above species, a rather uncommon corvid. Recorded on 19 dates: 2 in spring, 1 in summer and 16 in autumn

2, 26^th April [DT] - 2, 10^th May [DT]

2 NW, 1^st August [DT]

Although a singleton was noted on 9^th September [DT], autumn migration occurred between 17^th October and 13^th November. During this period small numbers observed, sometimes in small loose flocks, flying generally southwest. Numbers peaked at the end of October/ beginning of November, with 16 on 30^th October, 18 on 2^nd November and 17 on 4^th November [DT/LS/PR]

Carrion Crow (Corneille noire) Corvus corone S

Common breeding resident – 1-15 birds noted daily

European Starling (Etourneau sansonnet) Sturnus vulgaris S M

Common breeding resident, small numbers seen daily. Almost absent in midsummer (July and early August). The presence of juveniles at the end of summer and migrants in late autumn increases numbers significantly (eg, 180 on 29^th August - 160 on 23^rd September - 160 on 1^st October - 370 (flying generally southwest) on 2^nd November [DT/PR] and 310 on 4^th November [DT/LS])

Eurasian Golden Oriole (Loriot d’Europe) Oriolus oriolus M

1 male flying north on 29^th April [DT]

House Sparrow (Moineau domestique) Passer domesticus S

Fairly common resident breeding nearby the park – usually 1-4 birds seen almost daily

Tree Sparrow (Moineau friquet) Passer montanus H

Uncommon resident – suspected to breed just outside the park (in or around the cemetary where 1-3 birds often noted)

In winter, 2 on 1^st January [DT], 5 on 19^th January [DT] and 4 on 16^th February [PR]. Also present at the end of the year when 1-12 birds noted on several dates between 26^th October – 6^th December [AB/DT/PR]

Observed on 2 dates in spring inside the park, 13^th & 15^th May [DT]

Chaffinch (Pinson des arbres) Fringilla coelebs S M

Fairly common in winter. Very rarely reported during the summer - almost absent between the end of April and the 2^nd week in September with just the occasional sighting of single birds (eg, 1,15^th June – 1, 21^st July)

Common passage migrant in late autumn with large numbers flying generally westsouthwest and southwest, making for spectacular visible migration between early October and early November (eg, 500 on 5^th October – 427 on 7^th October - 150+ on 20^th October - 198 on 23^rd October - 213 on 24^th October - 100 on 30^th October 171 on 2^nd November)

Brambling (Pinson du nord) Fringilla montifringilla M

Passage migrant recorded in spring and (especially) autumn
Recorded on 3 dates in spring: 1, 14^th March [LS] - 2, 15^th March [LS] - 2, 3^rd April [PR]

First recorded in autumn on 4^th October [PD]. Small numbers then seen almost daily until 13^th November, numbers peaking at 36 on 26^th October [DT]

Eurasian Linnet (Linotte mélodieuse) Carduelis cannabina M

Passage migrant noted in spring and (especially) autumn
5 reports in spring: 1, 24^th February [LS] - 1, 15^th March [LS/PR] - 11, 6^th April [LS/PR] - 1, 10^th April - 1, 2^nd May [DT]

Singles noted on 4 dates in September. More frequently recorded in late autumn, being seen on 8 dates between 17^th October – 4^th November, with a peak of 48 on 23^rd October [LS/PR]

Common Redpoll (Sizerin flammé) Carduelis flammea H M

Uncommon winter visitor and migrant

1, 27^th Jan [DT]

Recorded on 2 dates in spring: 2, 21^st April & 1, 25^th April [DT]

Reported on 13 dates between 14^th October – 26^th November with a maximum of 15 (including one flock of 13) on 17^th October [DT]

Birds seen in November were often considered to be in local flight rather than actively migrating. 2 birds were observed to land and feed inside the park on 2 such occasions (eg, 2, 14^th November [DT])

European Goldfinch (Chardonneret élégant) Carduelis carduelis S M

Fairly common resident, breeding in or near the park. Usually 1-3 birds seen almost daily throughout the year

Active migration noted during late autumn, although numbers rather low (usually not more than 8 birds). Numbers peaked in third week of October (eg, 22 on 17^th, 10+ on 18^th and 19 on 19^th)

European Greenfinch (Verdier d’Europe) Carduelis chloris S M

Common resident breeding in or near the park. Usually 1-4 birds noted daily

Higher numbers recorded regularly in late autumn, although generally still quite low, the highest noted on any one day being 12 on 23^rd October [DT]

Eurasian Siskin (Tarin des aulnes) Carduelis spinus H M

Rather uncommon – present on site in small numbers in January/February. Recorded frequently as a passage-migrant in late autumn

Up to 7 birds present at or near the alders behind the Jean Moulin college from 26^th January – 10^th February [DT/PR]

Regularly seen in small flocks during autumn, from 27^th September – 4^th November. Numbers peaked during the second half of October, the highest daily count being 66 birds on 20^th October [AD/DT/MZ]

European Serin (Serin cini) Serinus serinus S M

Fairly common resident breeding in or near the park – small numbers (usually 1-4 birds) seen regularly throughout the year

Increased numbers noted in late autumn (eg, 13 on 24^th October, 15+ on 27^th October)

Small feeding flock of around 12 birds present in the Savanna at the end of November and early December, peaking at around 30 birds on 5^th December [DT]

Island Canary (Serin des Canaries) Serinus canaria C

1 on 15^th September [DT]

Eurasian Bullfinch (Bouvreuil pivoine) Pyrrhula pyrrhula S

A discreet but reasonably common resident, although in very low numbers. 1-4 birds seen fairly regularly, one pair breeding successfully in the park and raising at least 2 young

Unlike previous years, absent in the early part of the year and not recorded before 22^nd April [DT]

2 juveniles observed in the company of a male on 27^th July [DT]

Hawfinch (Grosbec casse-noyaux) Coccothraustes coccothraustes H M

A good year for this species. Several records in early spring (March and April) and September. Present on or around the site between mid-October to the end of the year

First seen on 20^th March [PR]. 2, 6^th April - 2, 11^th April - 3, 12^th April - 2, 28^th & 29^th April

1 noted in summer (flying southwest) on 31^st July [DT]

4 records in September: 1, 10^th – 1, 17^th – 1, 27^th – 2, 30^th

Present on or around the site later in autumn, and 1-4 birds observed almost daily between 14^th Oct – 31^st December, often seen alighting in trees or more rarely feeding on the ground.

Numbers supplemented in autumn by migrants (eg, 12, 23^rd October)

Red Crossbill (Bec-croisé des sapins) Loxia curvirostra E M

Small numbers noted flying southwards in summer and autumn
4, 27^th July [LS/PR] - 3, 28^th July [DT] - 21 [LS] & 1 [DT], 31^st August - 2, 14^th September [DT] - 1, 16^th September [DT] - 2, 25^th September [DT]

Unusually, 1 of the 2 birds seen on 25^th September landed for several seconds atop a fir tree in the Northern Fields

Reed Bunting (Bruant des roseaux) Emberiza schoeniclus H M

Rather uncommon and irregular winter visitor. Recorded fairly often in spring and autumn.

1, 6^th January [DT] – 1, 24^th February [LS] - 1, 5^th March [LS] - 1, 6^th March [PR]

A small group of 5-9 birds was present at and around the Mare Perchée and seen daily between 15^th March – 24^th March [LS/PR]

1 singing male present at the Mare Perchée from 5^th April – 20^th April
Migrants recorded fairly often in autumn (small numbers on 17 dates) between 14^th October – 2^nd December, numbers peaking at 13 on 23^rd October [DT/LS/PR]

Yellowhammer (Bruant jaune) Emberiza citrinella M

Uncommon. Recorded on 3 dates (1 in spring and 2 in autumn)

1, 3^rd April [PR]

2, 11^th October [JB/BF/MZ] - 1, 13^th November [LS]

The bird on 13^th November was seen to land, feeding for several minutes in the Savanna before flying off

Cirl Bunting (Bruant zizi) Emberiza cirlus H

Sadly now an uncommon, non-breeding species.

3 wintering birds (2 males and 1 female) present from 1^st January – 8^th February [DT/LS/PR] - 1 male on 29^th December [LS]

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Appendix 1

Migration pattern of Great Cormorant (Grand cormoran) : 2008

Appendix II

Migration patterns of commoner larger raptors : 2008

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