122 species were identified this year. During spring and autumn a total of 294 hours of ‘’skywatching’’ was made, a slight reduction (-3%) on last year. There was a marked increase in migrating raptors seen in spring compared to 2012, although the overall yearly total was almost identical (213 birds).

Most of the ‘locally rare’ species appeared at least once, and 2 fine Bluethroats in spring were only the second and third recorded at the park. Notable absentees included Mute Swan, Common Sandpiper , Marsh Warbler and Tree Sparrow.

One new species was added to the park bird-list, Dusky Warbler, which spent 5 days on site in late autumn and was undoubtedly the ornithological highlight of the year. . 



Observers mentioned at Parc des Beaumonts in 2013 :



AL= Alban Larousse AN=Andre Lantz BG= Benjamin Griard CF= Corentin Festoc DT= David Thorns GM=Gaell Mainguy JA= Jacques Anjuerer JB=Julian Birard ML=Matt Lambert MZ=Maxime Zucca OL= Olivier Laporte OS=Olivier Signaud PD= Pierre Delbove PM= Philip Redman PR= Pierre Rousset QD= Quentin Dubost RP= Roland Paul SO=Sean Offord TC=Thibaut Chansac YM=Yves Massin YF= Yves Fleury-Collet 
 



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 Crested Grebe (Grèbe huppé) Podiceps cristatus M

One record in autumn.

3, 24^th November [PR].

A rarity at Beaumonts; the birds flew northwards, low over the Cascade.

Great Cormorant (Grand cormoran) Phalacrocorax carbo S M



Noted once in winter: 1, 6^th January [PR].

Recorded in spring from 3^rd February to 24^th May, with a maximum of 123 on 7^th April. Almost absent after 14^th April.

Noted on autumn passage for the first time (5 birds) on 6^th September [DT]. Recorded regularly up to 20^th November with a maximum of 226 birds flying south on 12^th October [PR/DT].

Grey Heron (Héron cendré) Ardea cinerea S M



Single birds observed infrequently and irregularly throughout the year, either fishing at the Mare Perchée or perched in the surrounding trees.

In mid-August, small numbers noted flying high to the southwest in the early mornings, with a group of 8 on 14^th August [DT].

Great Egret (Grande aigrette) Casmerodius albus M

1, 25^th October [AL]

The bird flew south in the early afternoon – the third record for Beaumonts.

Little Egret (Aigrette Garzette) Egretta garzetta M



Migrating birds seen flying over the park twice in autumn.

1, 16^th September [DT] - 1, 30^th November [PR].

White Stork (Cigogne blanche) Ciconia ciconia M



Observed migrating over the park on 13 dates (9 in spring and 4 in autumn).

15, 17^th February [DT/PR] - 1, 3^rd March [AL/PR/DT] - 1, 9^th March [DT] - 1, 15^th March [PR] - 1, 7^th April [AL/QD/DT/PR] - 1, 13^th April [PR] - 4, 20^th April [QD/DT/PR] - 1, 27^th April [DT] - 2, 2^nd May [DT]

17, 11^th September [DT] - 11, 7^th September [DT/PR] - 1, 15^th September [DT] - 9, 28^th September [DT/PR]

Black Stork (Cigogne noire) Ciconia nigra M

Observed migrating over the park on 3 dates (2 in spring and 1 in late summer).

1, 23^rd March [DT] - 1, 4^th May [DT/PR]

1, 28^th July [DT]

Greylag Goose (Oie cendrée) Anser anser M



Observed migrating north on 3 dates in spring. Unusually absent in autumn.

c400, 3^rd February [PR/DT] , 18, 16^th February [DT] - 61, 22^nd March [PR].

Canada Goose (Bernache du Canada) Branta canadensis F



Observed flying overhead on 2 dates.

6, 21^st March [DT] - 5, 6^th September [DT]

Mallard (Canard colvert) Anas platyrhynchos S M



1-6 birds observed irregularly throughout the year, although present mainly between the end of January and mid-June.

A pair was settled at the Mare Perchée by early March although their attempt at breeding was unfortunately unsuccessful, the female (unusually) appearing away from the confines of the reed bed on the 7^th April [PR].

Very few records during the latter part of the year, although a pair was observed at the Mare Perchée at dusk on 22^nd November [RP].

Osprey (Balbuzard pecheur) Pandion haliaetus M



Recorded migrating over the park on 5 dates (1 in spring and 4 in autumn).


1, 15^th March [PR].

1, 8^th September [DT] , 1, 28^th September [PR/DT] , 1, 29^th September [DT] - 1, 5^th October [DT]






Red Kite (Milan royal) Milvus milvus M



Observed migrating over the park on 2 dates (1 in spring and 1 in autumn).

1, 18^th March [PR].

3, 24^th October [PR].

Photo: Red Kite; P.Rousset (26^th October 2013)

Black Kite (Milan noir) Milvus migrans M



Observed on 5 dates in spring. 



1, 14^th April [PR] - 1, 2^nd May [PR] , 1, 9^th May [DT] , 1, 12^th May [PR/DT] , 1,18^th May [DT].

Marsh Harrier (Busard des roseaux) Circus aeruginosus M



Recorded flying over the park on 21 dates (8 in spring and 13 in autumn). At least 44 birds are involved.



1, 23^rd March [DT] – 6, 7^th April [QD/AL/PR/DT] , 2, 14^th April [PR] , 1, 21^st April [DT] - 2, 2^nd May [DT] , 4, 4^th May [PR/DT] , 1, 7^th May [DT] , 3, 8^th May [DT].

Photo: Marsh Harrier; D.Thorns (21^st April 2013)

1, 31^st August [DT] - 1, 1^st September [DT] , 1, 7^th September [PR/DT] , 1, 8^th September [QD/PR/DT] , 3, 15^th September [DT/PR] , 3, 20^th September [PR] , 2, 22^nd September [SO/DT] , 2, 23^rd September [DT] , 1, 28^th September [GM/OS/DT] , 3, 29^th September [DT] - 1, 2^nd October [PR] , 1, 5^th October [PR] , 2, 6^th October [PR/DT].

Marsh Harrier migration 2013 (source: www.trektellen.org)

Hen Harrier (Busard Saint-Martin) Circus cyaneus M



A good year: recorded on 9 dates (5 in spring and 4 in autumn).

1, 11^th February [PR] - 1, 22^nd March [DT] - 1, 7^th April [DT] , 1, 13^th April [DT] - 1, 4^th May [DT].

2, 15^th August [DT] - 1, 15^th September [AL/PR/DT] , 1, 20^th September [PR] , 1, 29^th September [DT].

Common Buzzard (Buse variable) Buteo buteo M



Noted on 34 dates (22 in spring and 12 in autumn). At least 102 birds are involved. 



Spring passage noted from 10^th February – 9^th May, with a daily maximum of 6 on 4^th May [DT/PR].

Photo: Common Buzzards; D.Thorns (29^th September 2013)

Recorded in autumn from 1^st September – 3^rd November. An extraordinary passage of migrants occurred on 29^th September when at least 35 flew south during the afternoon, including an impressive flock of 18 birds [PR/DT].

Common Buzzard: migration 2013 (source: www.trektellen.org)

Honey-Buzzard (Bondrée apivore) Pernis apivorus M



Observed migrating over the park on 20 dates (8 in spring and 12 in autumn). At least 43 birds are involved.


1, 2^nd May [PR] , 2, 4^th May [PR/DT] , 2, 5^th May [DT] , 3, 8^th May [PR/DT] , 4, 9^th May [AL/DT] , 2, 11^th May [PR/DT] , 4, 12^th May [AL/PR/DT] , 1, 19^th May [DT].

1, 4^th August [PR/DT] , 5, 11^th August [PR/DT] , 1, 15^th August [DT] , 1, 24^th August [DT] , 3, 31^st August [DT] - 1, 1^st September [DT] , 1, 2^nd September [PR] , 1, 4^th September [PR] , 2, 7^th September [PR/DT] , 5, 8^th September [PR/DT] , 2, 15^th September [PR/DT] , 1, 22^nd September [SO/DT].

Several sightings in early autumn appeared to involve local, wandering individuals rather than birds in active migration. During the afternoon of 11^th August, for example, several individuals drifted aimlessly in various directions, at least one of which suffering the attentions of an aggressive Peregrine. 1 or 2 individuals engaged in display-flights, a behavior not previously witnessed at Beaumonts.

Honey Buzzard:migration 2013 (source:www.trektellen.org)

[Unidentified larger raptors] (Grands rapaces non identifiés)



Unidentified larger raptors reported on 22 dates (15 in spring and 7 in autumn). 34 individuals were involved (26 in spring and 8 in autumn).



Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Epervier d’Europe) Accipiter nisus S



Regularly recorded (usually 1-3 individuals) throughout the year. Breeding probable but, unlike the last 6 years, not confirmed.

In spring and (especially) autumn small numbers occasionally noted migrating during skywatches. For example, 1 on 31^st March and 3 on 29^th September.

Eurasian Kestrel (Faucon crécerelle) Falco tinnunculus S M



Breeding in the immediate vicinity of the park, 1-3 birds (usually 1) noted almost daily.

Although the vast majority of sightings refer to local birds, some were apparently in active migration (ex: 1, 24^th April and 2, 12^th October). 





Eurasian Hobby (Faucon hobereau) Falco subbuteo E M



Up to 3 birds noted occasionally in spring, summer and autumn.



First recorded in spring on 14^th April [PR].

A single bird noted daily in early September flying northwest early in the mornings [DT].

Last autumn sighting on 28^th September [PR]. 




Peregrine Falcon (Faucon pèlerin) Falco peregrinus R M



The regular presence of breeding birds at the nearby Porte d’Ivry (94) has made the species less of a rarity.

Recorded on 7 dates: 1, 16^th February [DT] - 1, 14^th April [PR] - 1, 8^th May [DT] - 1, 18^th August [PR/DT] - 1, 7^th September [DT] - 1, 21^st September [PR] - 1, 5^th October [DT]. 




The individual on 18^th August (a juvenile) was particularly entertaining, making several stoops at a pair of Honey Buzzards.

Photo: Peregrine and Honey Buzzard; D.Thorns (18^th August 2013)

Merlin (Faucon émerillon) Falco columbarius M



1 record in autumn. 



1, 6^th October [ML/PR/DT].

In typical fashion the bird was in active migration, circling several times over Montreuil before dashing away to the southwest.

Common Moorhen (Poule d’eau) Gallinula chloropus S



A familiar resident breeding species with 1-5 birds observed almost daily throughout the year.



Breeding confirmed at the Mare de Brie with up to 4 chicks present from 27^th May-3^rd June [PR].

A pair at the Mare Perchée produced a second brood: 3 recently fledged chicks observed there in the company of a juvenile on 27^th July [PR].

Unfortunately the healthy population of rats at the Mare Perchée continues unabated and is probably responsible for the loss of several fledglings each year.

Common Crane (Grue cendré) Grus grus M

Rare passage migrant. Birds migrating over the park observed on 2 consecutive days in early spring.

2, 5^th March [DT] - 21, 6^th March [PR].

Photo: Common Cranes; D.Thorns (5^th March 2013)

Northern Lapwing (Vanneau huppé) Vanellus vanellus H M



Seen flying over the park in small groups on 9 dates.

c140, 1^st January [PR] - 134, 16^th February [PR/DT] - c85 , 23^rd February [PR/DT] - c180, 9^th March [DT] - 1, 8^th May [DT] - c160, 6^th October [PR/DT] - 45, 18^th October [PR] - 103, 24^th October [PR] - 89, 11^th November [PR].

Eurasian Golden Plover (Pluvier doré) Pluvalis aricaria H M

Seen flying over the park on 3 dates in spring.

28, 10^th March [DT] - 1, 17^th March [PR] - c65, 31^st March [DT].

Photo:Golden Plover; D.Thorns (10^th March 2013)

Green Sandpipier (Chevalier cul-blanc) Tringa ochropus M



Observed twice in spring.

1, 27^th March [DT] - 1, 29^th March [DT].






Eurasian Woodcock (Bécasse des bois) Scolopax rusticola M H



Observed on 5 dates (1 in spring, 3 in autumn and 1 in winter).

1, 24^th March [GM/DT] - 1, 20^th October [DT] - 1, 23^rd October [BG] - 1, 1^st November [DT] - 1, 7^th December [DT]. 






Common Snipe (Bécassine des marais) Gallinago gallinago M


Observed on 4 dates (2 in spring and 2 in autumn).

1, 1^st April [DT] - 3, 21^st April [DT]

2, 7^th September [CF/DT] - 1, 17^th September [DT].

Photo: Common Snipe; D.Thorns (1^st April 2013)

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



Low numbers (generally 1-10 birds) observed flying over the park almost daily in winter, early spring and autumn. Uncommon and almost absent from early May – late August.

Daily maximum of 150 noted on 3^rd March [AL/PR/DT]. During March small groups noted flying northwards in the early mornings [DT]. In autumn, daily maximum of 93 on 6^th October [AL/PR/DT].

In December single birds noted occasionally landing on site, either at the Mare Perchée or on lamp posts inside the recycling plant. 





Mediterranean Gull (Mouette mélanocéphale) Larus melanocephalus M



Observed migrating over the park on 2 dates (1 in spring and 1 in autumn).

1, 31^st March [QD/PR/DT].

6, 4^th August [PR/DT].

Common Gull (Goéland cendré) Larus canus S M



Rather uncommon in all seasons – noted on 7 dates.



1, 14^th January [PR] - 1, 14^th March [PR] - 1, 2^nd April [DT] - 1, 11^th April [DT] - 1, 11^th May [PR/DT] - 1, 28^th July [PR/DT] - 1, 19^th December [PR].

Herring Gull (Goéland argenté) Larus argentatus S M



Small numbers seen irregularly (usually 1-2 birds) in winter, spring and autumn.



Yellow-legged Gull (Goéland leucophée) Larus michahellis H M



Observed less frequently than the preceding species, and there were fewer records compared to 2012. No doubt under-recorded due to difficulties with the identification of large gulls.

Noted on 4 dates (3 in spring and 1 in winter)

2, 14^th March [PR] - 3, 9^th May [DT] - 3, 12^th May [PR/DT] - 1, 22^nd December [PR].

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



Fairly common - reported in small numbers in winter, spring and autumn. A maximum of 14 noted on 15^th September.

[Unidentified larger gulls] (Goéland indéterminé) Larus spp

Unidentified larger gulls regularly noted in small numbers in winter, spring and autumn.

An exceptionally large movement of gulls was noted on 20^th September, when a total of 387 flew south during the late afternoon [PR].

Common Tern (Sterne pierregarin) Sterne hirundo M 



One record in spring.



2 flying north on 24^th May [DT].



Rock Dove (Pigeon biset) Columba livia S



Common resident – seen daily.





Stock Dove (Pigeon colombin) Columba oenas S M



A reasonably common non-breeding resident. Observed fairly regularly flying over the park throughout the year in low numbers (usually 1-3 birds). Up to 3 birds observed perched on buildings to the northeast (and outside) of the park where breeding is suspected.



As usual small groups sometimes noted flying eastwards in spring (especially February/March).

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



Common breeding resident – seen daily. 
Small numbers on site supplemented by local movements of birds flying over the park in diverse directions. In general birds fly to the northeast in the mornings and are seen returning towards Paris later in the afternoons.

Post breeding (from the end of June), groups comprising adults and juveniles regularly noted on the lawns in the northern section of the park. 



Flocks on migration noted occasionally; for example, 20 on 11^th November [PR].

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Tourterelle turque) Streptopelia decaocto S



Fairly common resident. 1-2 birds regularly observed in flight or (rarely) perched in trees at the Mare Perchée or inside the recycling plant. 





Turtle Dove (Tourterelle des bois) Streptopelia turtur M 



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



2, 7^th May [DT] - 1, 27^th May [PR].

1, 24^th October [PR].



Almost always noted flying overhead on active migration, it is worth noting the observation of a perched individual singing from a tree on 27^th May. 



 


Common Swift (Martinet noir) Apus apus E M 



A common summer visitor, seen daily.



As in 2012, first spring arrival noted on 13^th April [PR/DT].

Fewer birds than usual observed this year, with roughly 150 birds in the skies in late summer/early autumn.

Active migrants in autumn noted from 28^th July – 5^th September, with up to 80 birds noted on 4^th and 11^th August.

Last recorded on 5^th September [DT].

Common Cuckoo (Coucou gris) Cuculus canorus M

Uncommon passage migrant. One observation in spring.

1, 28^th April [AL/DT].

The bird was spotted in active migration, flying purposefully high to the northeast in the early afternoon.

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



Reasonably common non-breeding species. Single birds and/or small flocks seen or heard irregularly throughout the year flying noisily over the park, presumably to and from breeding colonies at Parc Montreau and Roissy.

There has been a disturbing increase in the number of birds landing and feeding on site, although this behavior still remains relatively uncommon.

Rosy-faced Lovebird (L’Inséparable rosegorge) Agapornis roseicollis F

1, 24^th March [GM/PR/DT]

A rarity at Beaumonts, the bird spent the whole day on site. Sadly it was lastly seen on the ground next to the entrance path, tugging on a strip of coloured plastic and oblivious to all the people passing very closely by.

Photo: Rosy-faced Lovebird; P.Rousset (24^th March 2013)

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.







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) Dendrocopus medius S

Very uncommon and irregular. Observed on 4 dates along the Allée des marronniers during January-February.

1,19^th January [DT] , 1, 21^st January [PR] , 1, 22^nd February [PR] , 1, 25^th February [PR].

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (Pic épeichette) Dendrocopos minor S



A discreet and rather uncommon resident. Rather a disappointing year. Single birds observed irregularly in spring, autumn and winter.

Breeding possible but unconfirmed. Not reported between 29^th March and 16^th November.

Eurasian Wryneck (Torcol) Jynx torquilla M



1 record in autumn.

1, 14^th September [DT].



Eurasian Skylark (Alouette des champs) Alauda arvensis M



Reasonably common passage migrant in spring and autumn, seen or heard flying high over the park.



Noted for the first time in spring on 1^st March [DT] and observed fairly regularly until 7^th April (maximum 32 on 4^th March).

First appearance in autumn on 7^th October [PR]. Recorded up until 29^th October with a maximum of 58 on 24^th October.






Woodlark (Alouette lulu) Lullula arborea M

H

A regular but uncommon passage migrant.

Unusually recorded on site in winter (after snowfall) - 1 seen and photographed on 19^th January [RP].



1-3 birds noted in spring on 4 dates: 1, 16^th February [DT] – 3, 22^nd March [DT] - 2, 23^rd March [DT] - 1, 14^th April [GM/DT].

Recorded on 6 dates in autumn: 16, 5^th October [DT] - 6, 6^th October [QD/ML/PR/DT] - 1, 7^th October [PR] - 6, 12^th October [PR/DT] - 1, 18^th October [PR] - 2, 24^th October [PR].

Photo: Woodlark; 19^th January 2014- R.Paul

Bank Swallow (Hirondelle de rivage) Riparia riparia E M



Rather uncommon but regular passage migrant in spring and autumn. 



Noted on 4 dates (as was the case in 2012):

1, 7^th April [AL/PR] - 1, 13^th April [PR/DT] - 3, 4^th May [PR/DT]

1, 4^th September [PR].

Barn Swallow (Hirondelle de cheminée) Hirundo rustica E M



Common passage migrant in spring and autumn. Almost absent in summer (June-July). 



First recorded in spring on 23^rd March [DT]. Spring migrants noted in small numbers on 18 dates up to and including the 18^th May with a peak of 26 on 14^th April [PR/DT]. 



Autumn migrants noted regularly from 30^th August – 26^th October with a maximum of 107 on 22^nd September [SO/PR/DT].

House Martin (Hirondelle de fenêtre) Delichon urbicum E M



Fairly common passage migrant in spring and autumn. Small numbers noted irregularly throughout the summer.



First recorded on 13^th April [PR/DT]. In spring 1-6 birds noted regularly up to 17^th May. Small numbers noted regularly in August (about 20 birds around the antenna-building during the last week of the month, as has been the case in previous years).

Last sighting on 18^th October [PR]. 


Meadow Pipit (Pipit farlouse) Anthus pratensis M



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



Observed in spring, occasionally landing on site, from 5^th March – 17^th April, with a maximum of 26 on 7^th April.

Absent in summer. First noted in autumn on 20^th September. Small numbers observed irregularly thereafter until 1^st November, with a peak of 69 on 28^th September [GM/OS/DT]. 





Tree Pipit (Pipit des arbres) Anthus trivialis M



Reasonably common passage migrant in spring and autumn.



First recorded in spring on 25^th March [DT]. Noted thereafter on 12 dates up to and including the 12^th May.

First noted in autumn on 15^th August. Small numbers noted on 23 dates up to and including the 28^th September, with a peak of 11 on 6^th September.

Extraordinarily another late, solitary and silent individual was to grace the Petite Prairie and Compost area at the end of autumn: 1, 29^th October [OL/PR/DT]. The bird was in the same spot as other late individuals recorded in 2008 (Oct 20^th & 22^nd) and 2010 (Oct 23^rd-24^th).

Photo: Tree Pipit; P.Rousset (29^th October 2013)

Water Pipit (Pipit spioncelle) Anthus spinoletta M



Uncommon passage migrant, probably under-recorded.

1 observation in spring.

1, 14^th March [PR].

White Wagtail (Bergeronnette grise) Motacilla alba M



A fairly common passage migrant in spring and autumn.



First reported in spring on 16 February [DT]. Small numbers noted on 16 dates thereafter until 24^th May with a maximum of 18 on 4^th March. Not recorded between 20^th April-24 May.

Absent in summer. Noted in autumn on 17 dates from 29^th August – 30^th October, with a maximum of 30 on 12^th October [PR/DT].

September – 31^st October with a maximum of 62 on 5^th October [PR]. 




Blue-headed Wagtail (Bergeronnette printanière) Motacilla flava flava M



Passage migrant noted in spring and autumn.



First reported in spring on 14^th April [DT]. Small numbers noted on 6 further dates until 19^th May.

1-2 birds recorded on 11 dates in autumn from 24^th August – 25^th September.






Grey Wagtail (Bergeronnette des ruisseaux) Motacilla cinerea S M



A rather uncommon and irregular non-breeding resident and passage migrant.



As usual observed mainly during the second half of the year, especially September. No records between 21^st March – 6 September.

Recorded once in January (5^th) [DT]. In spring noted on 8 dates between 10^th February – 21^st March. 1 clearly migrating north on 5^th March [DT].

Noted for the first time in autumn on 6^th September, and then on 19 further dates (sometimes in active migration) up to 26^th October.






Winter Wren (Troglodyte mignon) Troglodytes troglodytes S



Common breeding resident – usually 1-4 birds seen or heard daily throughout the year. 





Dunnock (Accenteur mouchet) Prunella modularis S M



Common breeding resident – 1-4 birds seen almost daily.

 As usual many birds singing during the second half of February and in March, making them much easier to see (far more discreet in summer). 





European Robin (Rougegorge familier) Erithacus rubecula S M



Common breeding resident – 1-4 birds seen almost daily.
 Like the preceding species, discreet during the breeding season.

Daily totals bolstered in early spring and autumn by migrants (for example, 12+ on 30^th March [DT] ; 15 on 25^th October [AL]).





Common Nightingale (Rossignol philomèle) Luscinia megarhynchos E M



A disappointing poor year with fewer records than usual – breeding unconfirmed and unlikely (no reports in summer).

Noted on 14 dates (5 in spring and 9 in autumn).

1, 13^th April [DT] - 1, 14^th April [DT] - 1, 23^rd April [PD] - 1, 2^nd May [PR] - 1, 11^th June [PR].

1-2 passage migrants noted in autumn from 25^th August [DT] – 19^th September [PR].

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). 1-6 birds noted on 15 dates (10 in spring and 5 in autumn).

1, 14^th March [PR] - 6, 23^rd March - 3, 27^th March - 3, 29^th March - 3, 30^th March - 2, 31^st March - 1, 1^st April - 1, 12^th April - 1, 21^st April - 1, 19^th May [DT].

1, 19^th September [PR] - 1, 22^nd September - 3, 4^th October - 1, 6^th October - 3, 18^th October [PR].

Common Redstart (Rougequeue à front blanc) Phoenicurus phoenicurus M



Uncommon but regular migrant. Observed on 17 dates (4 in spring and 13 in autumn).



31^st March (1) [PD] - 13^th April (1) [DT] - 24^th April (1) [PD] - 28^th April (1) [DT].

1, 21^st – 25^th & 27^th August (1) [PR/DT] - 1, 7^th-8^th September (1) [DT] - 2, 14^th – 16^th September [DT] - 1, 2^nd October [PR] - 1, 8^th October [PM].

Whinchat (Tarier des prés) Saxicola rubetra M

Uncommon passage migrant.

Observed on 6 dates in autumn.

1, 21^st August [PR] - 1, 25 & 27-28 August [DT] - 1, 1^st September [DT] - 1, 8^th September [DT].

Photo: Whinchat; D.Thorns (25^th August 2013)

Common Stonechat (Traquet pâtre) Saxicola rubicola M



Uncommon passage migrant.

Observed on 3 dates (2 in spring and 1 in late autumn).

1, 4^th March [DT] - 1, 24^th March [GM] - 1, 24^th November [PR].

Bluethroat (Gorgebleue a miroir) Luscinia svecica M

Rare passage migrant. Observed on 3 dates in spring.

1, 5^th April [DT] - 1, 6^th & 7^th April [QD/PR/DT].

Only the second and third records for the park, 2 different birds were involved: a relatively drab individual found in the Petite Prairie was followed over the next 2 days by a superb singing adult male at the nearby Mare Perchée.

Photo: Bluethroat; D.Thorns (7^th April 2014)

This recording of the latter’s infrequent and discreet singing was taken [DT]:
http://www.skutchia.com/sounds/20130407.bluethroat1AR.LS100434.3rd.mp3

Ring Ouzel (Merle à plastron) Turdus torquatus M



Uncommon but regular passage migrant. Noted on 7 dates (6 in spring and 1 in autumn).



1, 31^st March [DT] - 1, 9^th April [DT] - 1, 11^th April [DT] - 2, 13^th April [PR/DT] - 5, 14^th April [GM/DT] - 1, 15^th April [DT]

1, 30^th October [AL].

Common Blackbird (Merle noir) Turdus merula S M



Common breeding resident. Small numbers (usually 1-5 birds) seen daily. Higher daily totals noted sometimes in late autumn and winter (for example, 14+ on 13^th January [DT]).

Fieldfare (Grive litorne) Turdus pilaris H M



Uncommon migrant in late autumn, spring and in winter. Noted on 19 dates; 14 at the beginning of the year (from 19^th January – 4^th April) and 5 in autumn.

Up to 22 birds present on site after snowfall during the third week of January [AZ/RP/PR].

Active northward migration noted for the first time on 23^rd February [DT]. However as severe weather settled to the north at least 45 birds were seen flying back towards the southwest during the early morning of 13^th March [DT].

In autumn noted on 5 dates from 10^th October – 25^th November. Maximum of 29 noted on 19^th October (3 groups flying east during the afternoon [DT]).

Song Thrush (Grive musicienne) Turdus philomelos S M



Rather discreet but common breeding resident – at least 3 breeding pairs estimated. 1-5 birds usually seen or heard daily. Passage migrants increase numbers in spring and autumn.

Spring migration noted in March and early April : recorded on 12 dates from 4^th March – 7^th April, with a maximum of 163 on 22^nd March [DT].

Return passage observed on 13 dates from 20^th September – 29^th October, with a maximum of 200 on 25^th October [AL].

Redwing (Grive mauvis) Turdus iliacus H M



Reasonably common migrant in spring and autumn – observed irregularly in small numbers in winter.

1-10 birds present on site at the end of January and during February. Early in the year noted on 16 dates (sometimes in active migration) from 19^th January – 14^th April.

First observed in autumn on 6^th October. Migrants noted thereafter up to 30^th November with a maximum of 45 on 19^th October. Recorded once in December (the 3^rd [PR]).

Mistle Thrush (Grive draine) Turdus viscivorus S M



Reasonably common resident with 1-3 birds seen almost daily in early spring, autumn and (especially) winter. Breeding probable either in or very close to the park. Very discreet and seldomly observed in late spring and summer (not recorded between 2^nd May-20^th September).

As usual, small numbers observed on migration: in spring 2 noted on 11^th February [PR], and 4 flew north on 6^th March [DT].

In autumn 1-5 birds noted flying over the park towards the south on 4 occasions between 20^th September – 25^th October.

Grasshopper Warbler (Locustelle tachetée) Locustella naevia M



Rare migrant. 1 observation in autumn.

1, 19^th August [PR/DT].







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



A much better year – breeding confirmed for the first time since 2010.

First recorded in spring on 11^th May, and 2 singing birds present at the Mare Perchée on May 24^th. An individual noted in the Savanna on several days at the end of August [DT].

Adults feeding young observed on 7^th September [DT]. Last seen in autumn on 19^th September.

Unlike in 2011 and 2012 the authorities refrained from cutting the reed bed in early spring, no doubt accounting largely for the breeding success this year.

Sedge Warbler (Phragmite des joncs) Acrocephalus schoenobaenus M



Very uncommon passage migrant. 3 observations in autumn.

1, 18 & 19 August [DT] - 1, 7^th September [DT].

Garden Warbler (Fauvette des jardins) Sylvia borin E M



Reasonably common summer visitor, breeding on site. 1-2 breeding pairs estimated.
 First reported in spring on 27^th April [PR/DT]. 2 singing birds heard regularly in the Savanna at the beginning of May, although little singing could be heard at the end of the month [DT].

Discreet and seldomly observed in summer. 1-2 birds noted on 5 dates from 15^th August – 7^th September.

Exceptional ‘fall’ of migrants on 19^th September when 6 birds observed, the last sightings of the year [PR].

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



Common breeding summer visitor and passage migrant. 1-12 seen or heard almost daily.

First recorded on 18^th March [PR]. 1-2 observed irregularly thereafter until 10^th April when a significant arrival occurred [DT].

As in 2012 relatively low numbers at the end of autumn, migration appearing to finish on 21^st October. Last recorded on 1^st November [DT]

Lesser Whitethroat (Fauvette babillarde) Sylvia curruca E M



Sadly now a rather uncommon non-breeding migrant. Noted on 4 dates in spring. Unlike 2012, recorded on several dates in autumn.

1, 21^st April [QD/RP/PR/DT] - 1, 27^th April [PD/DT] - 1, 2^nd May [PR] - 1, 11^th May [DT].

1, 20^th August [PR] - 1, 21^st August [DT] - 1, 12-14^th September [DT] - 4, 15^th September [DT] - 1, 19^th September [PR] - 1, 21^st September [PR].

Common Whitethroat (Fauvette grisette) Sylvia communis E



A fairly common summer visitor, seen or heard daily. 1-2 breeding pairs estimated. 



First reported in spring on 14^th April [DT].

1-3 noted regularly in August and September. Last seen on 22^nd September [AL].

Melodious Warbler (Hypolaïs polyglotte) Hippolais polyglotta E M



A disappointing year, H polyglotta failing to breed for the first time in several years.

Observed on 7 dates (4 in spring and 3 in autumn).

1, 9^th & 11^th & 15^th May [DT] - 1, 25^th May [PR].

1, 15^th August [DT] - 1, 18^th August [PR/DT] - 1, 19^th August [OL/DT].

The authorities’ decision to cut down most of its traditional breeding area in early spring no doubt had a negative impact on the well-being of the species this year.

Willow Warbler (Pouillot fitis) Phylloscopus trochilus E M



A rather uncommon non-breeding species noted in spring, late summer and autumn.
First recorded in spring on 2^nd April [DT]. Singing birds noted irregularly thereafter until 19^th May.

Up to 4 birds recorded fairly regularly in autumn from 15^th August – 21^st September. 


Common Chiffchaff (Pouillot véloce) Phylloscopus collybita E M

 H

Common summer visitor, seen daily. At least 5 breeding pairs estimated.

Feeble presence on site in winter at the beginning of the year (3 records in January-February [PR]).

First recorded (singing) in spring on 3^rd March [DT]. Thereafter generally 1-4 birds noted daily throughout the spring and summer.

As in 2012 (and contrary to preceding years), rather feeble presence in autumn (generally 1-6 birds noted daily in August-October).

1-2 birds noted daily in December, with 6 on 4^th December [PR].

[Siberian Chiffchaff (Pouillot de Sibérie) Phylloscopus collybita tristis] M H

An individual was found and identified by MZ on 21^st October. Interestingly its occurrence coincided with that of the following species; it was to be either seen or glimpsed by several other birders at this period.

1, 21^st-23^rd October [TC/YM/MZ et al].

Dusky Warbler (Pouillot Brun) Phylloscopus fuscatus M

20^th-24^th October (1) [QD/GM/PR/DT et al].

Easily the bird of the year this was a first for the region and only the second inland record for France.

The bird was found late in the morning by DT after a prolonged period of light rain. Initially detected calling from the bases of tall weeds at the Compost it was later re-found at the nearby Mare Perchée, where it was to take up residence for the following 4 days. Although it proved difficult to see the majority of visiting birders managed to obtain brief views as it chivvied around the low willows and reeds at the water’s edge.

Photo: Dusky Warbler; 22^nd October 2013- T.Chansac

Two photographs were obtained [TC/MZ], along with this recording of its calls [DT]:
http://www.skutchia.com/sounds/20131022.dusky%20warbler2.mp3

Goldcrest (Roitelet huppé) Regulus regulus S M



Rather uncommon resident – breeding unconfirmed. Small numbers (1-4 birds) at the beginning and the end of the year. Not reported from 27^th April – 21^st September.





Firecrest (Roitelet triple-bandeau) Regulus ignicapillus S M



Rather uncommon resident. Breeding possible but not confirmed. Apparently absent in January and February.

First recorded on 9^th March [DT]. 1-5 birds seen or heard singing irregularly thereafter until 28^th April.

Not reported from 28^th April – 29^th August.

1-5 birds noted fairly regularly in autumn and winter, from 29^th August to the end of the year.

Spotted Flycatcher (Gobemouche gris) Muscicapa striata M



Rather uncommon passage migrant in spring and autumn. Observed on 7 dates (2 in spring and 5 in autumn).

1, 13^th May [DT] - 1, 18^th May [DT].

1, 21^st August [DT] - 1, 22^nd August [PR] - 1, 7^th September [PR/DT] - 1, 8^th September [DT] - 1, 15^th September [DT].

European Pied Flycatcher (Gobemouche noir) Ficedula hypoleuca M



Passage migrant recorded on 16 dates (1 in spring and 15 in autumn). 



1, 27^th April [GM].

1, 15^th August [DT] - 1, 16^th August [PR] - 1, 21^st August [PR/DT] - 1, 22^nd August [PR] - 1, 23^rd & 25^th-26^th & 28^th-29^th & 31^st August [DT] - 3+, 8^th September [PR/DT] - 1, 12^th & 14^th-15^th & 17^th September [DT].

Great Tit (Mésange charbonnière) Parus major S M



Common breeding resident – usually 1-10 birds seen daily.





Coal Tit (Mésange noire) Parus ater H M



Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Observed on 8 dates:

1, 12^th January [CF/DT] - 2, 17^th January [PR] - 1, 23^rd January [PR] - 1, 22^nd February [PR] - 2, 2^nd March [PR/DT] - 1, 30^th March [DT].

3, 12^th October [DT] - 3, 23^rd October [BG].

The birds were generally found in the conifers in the northern section of the park.

Eurasian Blue Tit (Mésange bleue) Parus caeruleus S M



Common breeding resident, although slightly less numerous than p.major - usually 1-4 birds seen daily.





Crested Tit (Mésange huppée) Parus cristatus H M



Uncommon. Recorded once in winter from the conifers in the northern section of the park

1, 26^th December [PR].

Marsh Tit (Mésange nonnette) Parus palustris S



Uncommon resident. Another rather good year with 1-2 birds seen or heard fairly regularly at the beginning and end of the year. Not recorded between 6^th March – 31^st August.

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



Fairly common resident – 1 or 2 breeding pairs.

Up to 12 birds seen irregularly throughout the year. A pair observed constructing a nest along the Sentier des Vergers on 30^th March. Interestingly the nest was totally exposed, constructed at a bare fork roughly 4 meters from the ground. Breeding confirmed here with at least 5 adults taking food to the nest during the second week of May.

True to form, a caudatus was either very discreet or absent for a period in summer (no records between 15^th May – 27^th August).

Photo: Long-tailed Tit; P.Rousset (30^th March 2013)






Eurasian Nuthatch (Sittelle torchepot) Sitta europaea S



Inexplicably scarce at Beaumonts. Observed on 10 dates, mainly at the beginning of the year:

1, 12^th January [CF/DT] - 1,21^st January [PR] - 1, 3^rd February [PR] - 1, 8^th February [AN] - 2, 22^nd February [PR] - 1, 1^st March [PR] - 1, 24^th March [PR]

1, 21^st August [PR] - 1, 5^th October [DT] - 1, 29^th October [OL].

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



Fairly common breeding resident (at least 2 pairs estimated). Singletons observed regularly throughout the year. Unusually observed frequently during April and May, a nest being found near the Jean Moulin entrance on 14^th April which was still active on 8^th May [DT].

Red-backed Shrike (Pie-grieche ecorcheur) Lanius collurio M

Rare passage migrant in spring and autumn.

1, 18^th – 19^th August [OL/PR/DT].

Photo: Red-backed Shrike; D.Thorns (18^th August 2013)

Common Magpie (Pie bavarde) Pica pica S



Common breeding resident – usually 5-20 birds seen daily.





Eurasian Jay (Geai des chênes) Garrulus glandarius S M



Fairly common breeding resident - usually 1-3 birds seen daily.



Eurasian Jackdaw (Choucas des tours) Corvus monedula H M



Uncommon - recorded on 12 dates (7 in spring and 5 in autumn)

2, 6^th February [PR] - 27, 5^th March [DT] - 14, 6^th March [DT] - 35, 9^th March [DT] - 2, 7^th April [DT] - 1, 13^th April [PR/DT] - 3, 3^rd May [DT].

1, 15^th September [PR/DT] - 1, 6^th October [DT] - 11, 19^th October [DT] - 5, 24^th October [PR] - 9, 25^th November [PR].

Rook (Corbeau freux) Corvus frugilegus M



A rather uncommon migrant. Records typically involve small, loose groups of less than 10 birds flying purposefully overhead. Noted on 14 dates (1 in winter, 7 in spring and 6 in autumn).

1, 7^th January [PR].

2, 5^th March [DT] - 7, 6^th March [PR/DT] - 3, 9^th March [DT] - 4, 15^th March [PR] - 2, 12^th April [DT] - 2, 14^th April [DT] - 1, 8^th May [DT].

1, 19^th September [PR] - 10, 12^th October [PR/DT] - 2, 18^th October [PR] - 4, 19^th October [DT] - 1, 24^th October [PR] - 9, 30^th October [AL/OL/DT].

Carrion Crow (Corneille noire) Corvus corone S


Common breeding resident. Usually between 1-10 birds noted daily. 
Larger numbers occasionally present (for example, a flock of 40 on a nearby building on 10^th March [DT]). 





European Starling (Etourneau sansonnet) Sturnus vulgaris S M



Common resident, breeding inside the park. Small numbers observed daily.

Migration observed in spring on 8 dates between 16^th February – 27^th March.

On 13^th March at least 1600 flew southwest in large groups early in the morning, perhaps influenced by extreme weather to the north (similar movements of Fieldfares occurring simultaneously [DT]).

Up to 174 observed apparently migrating in autumn on 8 dates from 29^th September – 30^th November.






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



Uncommon but regular passage migrant. Observed twice in spring.

1, 8^th May [DT] - 1, 17^th May [DT].

The bird on 17^th May was present on site from 06h30-07h00, singing from the Bois de Bordure.






House Sparrow (Moineau domestique) Passer domesticus S



Fairly common resident breeding near the park; 1-4 birds seen fairly regularly.

Chaffinch (Pinson des arbres) Fringilla coelebs S M



Fairly common in winter with small numbers seen daily. Discreet and rarely seen in summer (although a singing male was heard regularly in June and July).

Common passage migrant: in spring noted flying northeast on 18 dates from 4^th March – 14^th March with a maximum of 236 on 22^nd March [PR/DT].

Migration noted at the end of autumn with rather average numbers flying southwest noted on 20 dates between 25^th September – 24^th November. Maximum of 360 on 25^th October [AL]. 





Brambling (Pinson du nord) Fringilla montifringilla H M



Uncommon but fairly regular winter visitor and passage migrant. Apparently not present this year on site in winter. Migration noted in spring and autumn.



In spring small numbers noted on 16 dates from 7^th February– 17^th April, with a maximum of 43 on 22^nd March [DT].

Photo: Brambling; D.Thorns (22^nd March 2013)

In autumn noted on 6 dates from 12^th – 30^th October, with a small peak of 16 birds on 19^th October [DT].

Eurasian Linnet (Linotte mélodieuse) Carduelis cannabina S M



Fairly common migrant noted on passage in spring and autumn.


Recorded once in winter (1, 14^th January [PR]).

First recorded in spring on 7^th February [PR]. Small numbers noted thereafter on 19 dates up to 11^th May, with a maximum of 18 on 14^th April [DT].

First recorded in autumn on 26^th September. Observed on 13 further dates up to 3^rd November with a maximum of 17 on 25^th October [AL].

Common Redpoll (Sizerin flammé) Carduelis flammea H M



Uncommon winter visitor and migrant.

1, 3^rd February [PR].

European Goldfinch (Chardonneret élégant) Carduelis carduelis S M



Reasonably common resident, breeding in or near the park. Small numbers noted fairly regularly, although rarely seen in summer (only 2 reports between 24^th May – 18^th September).

Small numbers noted irregularly in winter – a flock of about 25 Present on site during the first 2 weeks of January.

Small numbers in active migration observed occasionally: in spring 1-7 on 7 dates from 6^th March – 15^th April, and in autumn 1-2 on 5 dates from 24^th September – 18^th October. 


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



Common resident breeding in or near the park. 1-6 birds noted daily.





Eurasian Siskin (Tarin des aulnes) Carduelis spinus H M



Noted on migration in spring and autumn. Up to 22 birds noted regularly on site in February. Recorded in spring from 8^th February – 7^th April.

First noted in autumn on 19^th September [DT], although not observed subsequently until 12^th October. Small numbers noted fairly regularly thereafter until 11^th November.

One observation in winter: 1, 5^th December [PR].

European Serin (Serin cini) Serinus serinus S M 



Reasonably common resident with 1-2 breeding pairs estimated in or very near the park.

Singing male noted for the first time on 16^th February [DT]. 1-2 birds noted irregularly from the beginning of March, and heard daily from the re-cycling plant during the first week in May [PR/DT].

Irregular in winter: no records this year in January and December.

Singletons noted in active migration on just 4 occasions in autumn, from 7^th – 24^th October. 





Eurasian Bullfinch (Bouvreuil pivoine) Pyrrhula pyrrhula S



A discreet but reasonably common resident, breeding inside the park. 1-2 birds seen or heard fairly regularly. Not reported in summer (between 24^th May – 15^th August).

A juvenile present in the Savanna on 15^th August [DT]. 




Hawfinch (Grosbec casse-noyaux) Coccothraustes coccothraustes H M



Rather uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant.

Present on site at the beginning of the year, especially during March. 1-3 birds observed on 22 dates from 13^th January – 14^th April.

1, 18^th May [DT].

Actively migrating birds noted on 7 dates between 6^th March – 7^th April, with a maximum of 9 on 22^nd March [DT].

Unusually scare during the latter part of the year – only 3 records in autumn : 1, 30^th & 31^st August – 1, 29^th September [DT].

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



Uncommon and irregular migrant. Noted flying northwards over the park on 2 dates in autumn.

2, 6^th October [DT] - 1, 25^th October [AL].

Reed Bunting (Bruant des roseaux) Emberiza schoeniclus H M



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



1-8 birds noted regularly on site at the beginning of the year, from 2^nd January – 17^th April. An individual observed on 2^nd February had been fitted with a silver ring on its left leg [DT]. 1-6 noted in active migration on 4 dates in March.

As usual, absent at the end of spring and in summer ; no records between 18^th April – 13^th October.

Relatively few records in the latter part of the year: up to 15 noted regularly in October (active migration on 5 dates). Almost absent in winter: 2, 24^th November [PR] - 1, 5^th December [PR].

Yellowhammer (Bruant jaune) Emberiza citronella M

Uncommon migrant. Observed on 3 dates (2 in spring and 1 in late autumn).

1, 6^th March [DT] - 1, 9^th March [DT].

4, 24^th November [PR].

The bird seen in the early morning of 6^th March, a fine male, landed briefly in the reed bed at the Mare Perchée before continuing its migration north.

Cirl Bunting (Bruant zizi) Emberiza cirlus S

Sadly now an uncommon, non-breeding species. Observed in the snow on 2 dates in winter at the beginning of the year.

2, 17^th January [RP/PR] , 2, 19^th January [DT].

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