The Birds of RSPB Hesketh Out Marsh Recording Area 2010.
The Hesketh Out Marsh (HOM) recording area covers the RSPB nature reserve and adjacent salt marsh south of the Ribble, land immediately behind the seawall west to Hundred End and east to the River Douglas. The recording area includes the fields inland to Shore Road.
In some cases WeBS data has been used in the species accounts with monthly peak counts included if appropriate.
2010 Summary.
Two severe weather snaps influenced the occurrence and undoubtedly the well-being, of certain bird species in 2010 with sub-zero temperatures recorded in January and again at the end of the year in December. Heavy snow carpeted the recording area a week before Christmas, remaining until the thaw just before the turn of the year. Woodcock and Jack Snipe were encouraged to move into the recording area whilst various raptors, including several Merlins and up to four Hen Harriers took advantage of the large numbers of passerines using the RSPB saltmarsh during the freeze. Although their presence in the area was not directly influenced by the cold weather, Lapland Buntings were easier to locate in the weedy fields near the car park due to the reduced feeding opportunities elsewhere. Indeed the wild bird cover provided feeding ground for many seed-eating species including Tree Sparrows, Corn Buntings and Bramblings. This gathering of finches and buntings became a major birding attraction at HOM and Bramblings peaked at fifty-five birds before dispersing after the thaw just before the New Year.
The spring and early summer will be remembered as an unusually dry period and a testing time for many of our regular wetland breeding birds. Observer coverage of HOM was understandably less intense than the bird-rich winter months but some interesting migrants were recorded nevertheless. A Common Crane found on a gusty April afternoon stayed until the next day, allowing many birders to see it, although it disappeared to the northeast around midday. A common bird census on the same day revealed some interesting records including a singing male Twite and flocks of White Wagtails on the reserve totalling in excess of four hundred birds!
Autumn 2010 will be remembered for its Lapland Bunting influx into parts of the UK and HOM certainly received its fair share with the first bird found in September along the seawall. Thereafter this scarce species was noted on several occasions in stubble fields or on saltmarsh, often with Skylarks or Corn Buntings. Two or three birds settled in the area of the car park in December allowing a few observers to catch up with this often elusive bird.
The second winter period produced some very entertaining birding with various ‘scarce’ geese discovered in the huge flocks of Pink-feet until the end of the year when frozen conditions dispersed the 11,000+ birds using the saltmarsh between HOM and Marshside. Wild swans returned to the area in decent numbers by late December, although Bewick’s were recorded only infrequently. The regular sightings of up to seven species of raptor made viewing over the saltmarsh from Karen’s Viewpoint an exciting prospect around Christmas and with more observer coverage HOM is becoming a popular birding locality for many locals.
2010 saw the recording area list grow with the addition of Smew, Honey Buzzard, Richard’s Pipit, Iceland Gull and Waxwing among others. 2011 has started well with Green-winged Teal and Red Kite in the first half of January and the establishment of the saltmarsh as a refuge for breeding, feeding and roosting estuary birds.
Species recorded at HOM in 2010.
Mute Swan Cygnus olor
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 |
No breeding season records this year.
Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus
Maximum count in the first winter period was achieved on 3 January when 6 birds were recorded. The first autumn record came on 17 November when 2 birds arrived with the peak second winter period count being 7 on the final day of the year. As usual all birds were seen in the fields inland of the west end of the RSPB reserve or near Guide Road at the eastern section of the recording area in the company of the following species.
Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus
Significant first winter period counts included 45 on 25 January and the peak count achieved on 23 February when 97 birds were counted. The first arrivals of the second winter period touched down briefly at HOM on 23 October when 15 Whooper Swans were seen. Larger counts were made on 28 October (50), 13 November (40) and 31 December (31).
Bean Goose Anser fabalis
Three birds flew south low over the seawall, calling on 23 November. Unfortunately they did not land and therefore could not be assigned to race.
Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
The current trend appears that “Pinks” congregate on the NNR saltmarsh at the west end of the recording area on arrival in the autumn, with large feeding flocks present until the end of the year. A small feeding flock often uses the grazing / stubble in the east of the RSPB reserve. Dispersal then occurs in the New Year to feed on the outer saltmarsh of the NNR or away from HOM on Crossens Outer Marsh at Marshside. Pink-footed Geese have rarely been present in any considerable numbers at HOM in the first part of the year over the last two winters.
Significant counts in 2010 include 68 on 15 September (first autumn record), 124 on 21 September, 300+ on 23 October, 600+ on 25 October, 2100 on 7 November, 2200 on 23 November and 2500 on 1 December.
White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons
Adult White-fronted Geese were seen at HOM on 23 November (Greenland flavirostris) and 1 - 7 December (Eurasian albifrons). They were with large flocks of Pink-feet on the saltmarsh at the west end of the recording area on Banks Marsh East.
A 1st winter Greenland flavirostris was present on the Ribble saltmarsh with Pink-feet on 7 and 8 December.
Greylag Goose Anser anser
Two on 26 March and 19 May were the only records in 2010.
Canada Goose Branta canadensis
Flocks of 160 on 15 January and 110 on 1 August were the only counts received apart from 68 seen on the October WeBS.
Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis
Singles on 23 and 25 November and 5 seen 11 December were the only records.
Brent Goose Branta bernicla
One (unspecified race) was seen during February WeBS and a Dark-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla bernicla was with the Pink-feet in the eastern section of the RSPB reserve on 7 December.
Shelduck Tadorna tadorna
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
160 | 106 | 56 | - | 86 | 130 | 230 | 11 | 34 | 72 | 26 | - |
Other significant records include 350 on 2 February, 370 on 7 February and 6 March and 260 on 17 June. Thereafter rather small numbers were recorded until the end of the year but 88 juveniles and 3 adults on 13 August is definitely worthy of note.
Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
128 | 80 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 42 | 34 | - |
The first bird of the autumn returned to HOM on 8 August with 2 there 15 August and 6 by 5 September. Numbers built to 50+ by 23 October with November’s maximum count reaching 70 on 18th. The sub-zero temperatures in December saw a big influx of Wigeon to the creeks of the RSPB reserve with 1400 present on 14th and 2500 there on Christmas Eve. Numbers fell to 600 by New Year’s Eve.
Gadwall Anas strepera
Still a rare visitor to HOM (although one bird was recorded during the breeding bird survey).
First record of the year was 1 on 25 February and a pair took up residence (though were typically elusive) in the eastern section of the RSPB reserve being seen on 9 and 12 March and again on 19 April. The drake was seen again on 6 June with a pair there the following day. None were seen until 11 August when 9 were seen, the largest number for 2010 by far. Birds were seen on 6 dates in December, mostly singles or a pair with the exception of 3 on 7th.
Common Teal Anas crecca
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
80 | 12 | 16 | - | 12 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 85 | 80 | 80 | - |
Numbers were unremarkable for the first winter period with monthly peaks of just 300 in January, 200 in February and 150 in March. Small numbers remained on the reserve into April with 25 seen on 25th. A pair was seen on 14 June and a single bird seen during the breeding bird survey were the only mid summer records until 8 appeared on 6 August. The early autumn build-up started in earnest on 28 August when 220 were seen, many using the pool to the east of the RSPB reserve just south of the seawall (where they were frequently disturbed). Numbers continued to increase with 900 on 11 September and 7 October and the highest count of the autumn (4800) reached on 7 November. Up to 400 remained throughout the December freeze until the end of the year.
Mallard Anas platyrhynchos
WeBS
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
83 | 47 | 20 | 21 | 7 | 48 | 12 | 31 | 40 | 87 | 55 | 62 |
Up to 18 present in the breeding season. Maximum count received was 270 on 11 September.
Pintail Anas acuta
An excellent series of records this year for this species. Although quite a common winter visitor to the estuary it remains rather scarce at HOM (no WeBS records for 2010) but nine dates is far better than 2009! Pintail were recorded in the January – March period and September - December in the latter part of the year. Most records were of 1 – 3 birds but flocks of 10 (2 February) and 11 (11 September) are noteworthy.
Shoveler Anas clypeata
This dapper dabbler remains rare at HOM but a single bird was recorded during the breeding bird survey. There were just two other records of single birds for 2010 (12 August and 24 December).
Common Pochard Aythya ferina
This HOM rarity was seen on 8 December when 5 drakes were on the Ribble at high tide.
Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula
A pair was seen on 12 May and 4 were seen on the RSPB reserve on 23 October.
Greater Scaup Aythya marila
One flew across the reserve during the big tide of 31 January and female was on one of the pools from13 October to 18 November.
Common Eider Somateria mollissima
Regular on the Ribble adjacent to the reserve in the spring and summer months (April – July). Seen on 5 dates with a maximum of 15 on 15 April.
Smew Mergellus albelllus
Three redheads flew west across the RSPB reserve during freezing weather on 6 December.
Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator
A redhead was seen during the morning goose count at the western end of the RSPB reserve on 17 January
Goosander Mergus merganser
Six redheads were seen at the eastern end of the HOM recording area on the River Douglas on 3 December.
Grey Partridge Perdix perdix
Recorded in all months except May and June with highest count of 16 on 25 October.
Quail Coturnix coturnix
One heard singing in fields east of the RSPB reserve on 6 June was the only record.
Pheasant Phasianus colchicus
Up to 17 were seen on 28 December.
Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis
Two were seen on 18 July and a single on 23 September.
Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo
WeBS (No counts made in April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
3 | 2 | 0 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | - |
Other counts (including Ribble birds) recorded up to 70 birds (31 December).
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
2 | 0 | 1 | - | 2 | 4 | 0 | 16 | 14 | 7 | 3 | - |
Recorded in all months of the year with highest counts on 3 August (49), 22 August (33) and 5 September (38). Scarce in both winter periods when only 1 – 3 birds were seen.
Great White Egret Ardea alba
Singles seen 6 July,1 and 7 October.
Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia
One in the eastern part of the recording area by the River Douglas on 27 May and on the RSPB reserve on 2 June.
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
1 | 1 | 1 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 0 | - |
Seen in small numbers all months except July with 5 on 28 January and 7 on 7 November being the peak counts.
Eurasian Honey-Buzzard Pernis apivorus
A dark phase bird was watched being mobbed by Carrion Crows as it headed south over the RSPB reserve on 13 October. This record has been submitted to the Lancs records committee.
Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
First recorded 25 April with up to four birds summering in the area. Thereafter recorded until the end of the year with 7 seen on 31 August (the day of a large Common Buzzard movement). One or two remained throughout the second winter period, taking advantage of the large concentrations of birds during the freezing weather of December.
Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus
A male and a female were present in the first winter period, the female last recorded on 26 March. The first autumn sighting came on 31 October when a ringtail was seen. Four birds (one male) were recorded during the second winter period and although only 3 birds were ever seen together, plumage and size differences confirm that a fourth had been present.
Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus
Recorded from January through to April and August until the year’s end with maximum count of 3 on 31 January and 11 December.
Common Buzzard Buteo buteo
Seen throughout the year (1 – 5 birds) but at least 11 seen on 31 August were part of a migration when they were observed flying east with Marsh Harriers.
Kestrel Falco tinnunculus
Recorded in all months except June with largest counts on 6 and 8 August (8), 21 September (8) and a peak of 9 on 23 November.
Merlin Falco columbarius
Hesketh Out Marsh remains one of the best places on the Ribble Estuary to see this little falcon. Up to three birds were regularly present around the RSPB reserve in the first winter period with the last record being on 9 March. The first “autumn” bird was recorded on 2 August with 1 – 2 birds seen throughout the early autumn period. Three were seen in October but with the onset of the extremely cold weather in December numbers rose to a minimum of 5 birds, mostly hunting the huge Skylark flocks over the saltmarsh of the RSPB reserve.
Hobby Falco subbuteo
Single on 6 dates between 17 August and 11 September.
Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Up to 3 recorded in all months of the year at HOM. One was seen to catch a Woodpigeon on 9 May.
Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
One or two on several dates on the RSPB reserve. Present in the breeding season but no proof of breeding on site.
Water Rail Rallus aquatacus
One heard in a reedy ditch in the eastern section of the RSPB reserve on 21 September.
Coot Fulica atra
Just two records this year: 3 on March 26 and 6 on the Ribble near the RSPB reserve 7 December. There were no breeding bird survey records.
Common Crane Grus grus
One was present in fields in the eastern section of the RSPB reserve (now known as the “Crane Field”) on 20 and 21 April when it was seen to fly off northeast around midday. It’s rather faded head and neck pattern suggests it may have been a second calendar year bird.
Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus
Recorded January – November with all larger counts from the Ribble saltmarsh. Breeding bird survey revealed 27 present on RSPB reserve with best count of 1050 on 27 August.
Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta
Present from 17 March – 17 October when an injured bird remained on the RSPB reserve. The peak count was 17 on 14 June and 7 were seen during the breeding bird survey.
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius
One present in the breeding season with juveniles seen on the RSPB reserve
on 1 July and 6 August.
Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula
Recorded from 15 April – 19 October with peak counts of 200 on 12 August, 20 on 11 September and 30 during October WeBS.
European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria
Recorded in both winter periods with the “first winter peak” of 300 on April 20 obviously reflecting birds moving through the area on spring migration. First returning birds (9) seen on 6 August with significant autumn / winter counts including 115 on 23 August, 220 on 5 September, 170 on 17 October, 1900 on 7 November and 430 on 18 November.
Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola
Two on the reserve on 25 and 31 January were unusual away from the Ribble saltmarsh in winter. Five juveniles on the RSPB reserve on 1 October increased to 12 by 19 October. This flock remained until 23 October with the final two birds last seen two days later.
Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
62 | 46 | 4 | - | 6 | 0 | 0 | 80 | 65 | 450 | 24 | 157 |
Other significant counts included 1000 on 28 January, 2350 on 17 February, 1200 on 23 August, 2520 on 21 September and 1700 on 18 November. At least 20 birds were present on the RSPB reserve during the breeding season.
Red Knot Calidris canutus
Recorded on 4 dates with up to 1000 on the estuary (6 June) but a single was seen on the RSPB reserve on 31 August.
Little Stint Calidris minuta
Singles on four dates from 1 September – 13 November with two present 23 September.
Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotus
A bird, almost certainly this species was seen on the pool in front of Karen’s Viewpoint on 28 July. However it flew off before satisfactory views could be obtained.
Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea
A good autumn passage with birds present 11 September – 13 November. The peak count of 7 was reached on 7 September when Curlew Sandpipers were frequenting the flooded arable fields in the western end of the recording area with Dunlins and Little Stints.
Dunlin Calidris alpina
Recorded January – November, most records from the Ribble but 450 on the RSPB reserve fed on the saltmarsh after it had been covered by the tide.
Ruff Philomachus pugnax
Present from 15 August (single bird) sporadically until 18 November on the RSPB reserve with 4 seen together on 4 dates.
Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola
A cold weather visitor to HOM with singles recorded on 11 January and 31 December.
Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus
One on 2 February was flushed from grass between the seawall and the hedgerow near Karen’s Viewpoint.
Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago
Large numbers present on the saltmarsh in the autumn from August – November with 78 counted on the November WeBS the maximum for 2010.
Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa
Seen in most months of the year with the largest numbers on the Ribble where 360 were seen on 5 April and 210 on 6 August.
Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica
Recorded on 5 dates with the largest numbers on 15 and 18 July (210 and 46 respectively). These flocks are usually seen distantly over the Ribble.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
Single on 21 April was surprisingly (given the large numbers present on the Ribble in spring) the only record.
Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
5 | 14 | 16 | - | 7 | 0 | 0 | 18 | 12 | 16 | 50 | - |
Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
Small numbers were seen at HOM from July – September with 3 from 6 – 10 August the largest count. The last bird was seen on 15 September.
Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus
Autumn visitor to HOM with up to three seen 6 July – 11 August.
Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus
Seen from 12 August – 11 September when two were recorded.
Greenshank Tringa nebularia
First reported 25 April when a single was seen. There were no further records until 15 July but subsequently Greenshanks were seen frequently on the RSPB reserve, usually 1 – 5, but 11 on 11 September was the peak count for this species in 2010. The last birds of the year were seen on 31 October when 3 were present.
Redshank Tringa totanus
WeBS (No counts for April or December).
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
50 | 16 | 27 | - | 7 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 2 | 0 | 28 | - |
The RSPB reserve held 36 birds during the breeding bird survey.
Other significant counts include 80 on 15 July and 11 August and 90 on 7 November.
Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
Still pretty scarce at HOM with singles on 31 January, 2 February, 28 February, 30 April and 12 August.
Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus
Another under recorded species at HOM; 300 on 9 March.
Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Recorded on five dates: 9 March (3), 15 April (1), 25 April (1), 30 April (3) and 13 October (1).
Common Gull Larus canus
Seen but no counts received. Undoubtedly under-recorded and counts required, especially at passage times.
Black-legged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla
A juvenile was seen making its way east across the RSPB reserve during gale-force westerly winds on 24 August.
Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus
Visits the reserve in large numbers from time to time. Maximum count 750 on 24 May.
Herring Gull Larus argentatus
A good count of 85 present on 24 May.
Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus
Once again there were very few records received of this species and all were singles apart from 5 on 11 April.
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
The first 2 birds were seen on 9 April and the only other record for that month was of 12 seen on the Ribble on 30th. Small numbers seen throughout the summer until 18 July with a mid-summer peak of 9 on 15 July.
Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea
A flock of 21 headed east along the Ribble on 30 April and singes were seen on 30 and 31 May.
Little Tern Sterna albifrons
One present on the RSPB reserve 24 August during strong south-westerly winds.
Guillemot Uria aalge
One on the Ribble adjacent to the RSPB reserve on 30 April.
Rock Dove / Feral Pigeon Columba livia
Ten on August 31st.
Stock Pigeon Columba oenas
Records received from February – August included counts of 55 (22 February), 60 (7 June), 76 (18 July) and 40 (6 August).
Woodpigeon Columba palumbus
A count of 125 on February 25th.
Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto
Scarce at HOM: 2 on 9 March.
Barn Owl Tyto alba
Seen in every month of the year except March; 4 on 1 July being the best count.
Little Owl Athene noctua
Probably resident near the farm with six sightings from March to December.
Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Singles 22 February, 11 May, 2 September, 31 October, 23 November and 12 December.
Common Swift Apus apus
Recorded on just five dates with 25 on 6 August being the sole double figure count.
Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis
Singles seen on 15 January, 15 February, 11 September, 7 and 9 October.
Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major
Two on June 20 included at least one juvenile.
Skylark Alauda arvensis
Recorded in all months with up to 90 singing birds in the breeding season on the RSPB reserve. The peak first winter period count was 130 on 31 January but 1600 were estimated to be present during freezing weather on 8 December (providing prey for the Merlins present at the time). Easterly passage was noted on 12 – 14 October when at least 100 birds were observed over the RSPB reserve.
Sand Martin Riparia riparia
First recorded 19 April with maximum count of 25 reached on 13 July. The last bird was seen on 15 August.
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
First recorded on 30 March when 3 birds were seen. Peak spring count was made on 19 April when 71 birds were logged. Large gathering were noted on 13 July (110) and 6 August (170) and the last birds were seen on 9 October when 20 were present.
House Martin Delichon urbicum
Recorded from 24 May – 1 September with two counts of nine birds on 13 July and 15 August.
Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis
Records received from March through to December with larger counts made 19 April (110), 23 September (200) and 7 November (200).
Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis
One flew over the RSPB reserve calling on 15 August.
Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi
One flew south over the seawall on 13 October. Unfortunately it could not be relocated in the fields but both observers were convinced of the identification of the bird as it flew over calling.
Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus
Two on 1 March.
Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta
One seen during the high tides of 31 January.
Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava
Records span the period 22 April – 21 September (18 dates) but absent in the breeding season in the recording area. A female was present with a juvenile on 2 August and three were seen together on 8 August.
Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea
Singles on five dates between 21 September and 23 October.
White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba
An incredible spring passage with some huge flocks discovered on the dry open mud of the RSPB reserve, before the saltmarsh really formed in the late spring early summer. Impressive numbers included 73 on 11 April, 237 on 19 April, 461 on 21 April, 200 on 22 April and 129 on 25 April.
Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrelli
Higher counts of 33 (August 18), 18 (11 September) and 30 (11 November) were recorded.
White / Pied Wagtail
Three seen October 4th.
Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus
A flock of 12 flew west on 11 December.
Wren Troglodytes troglodytes
Three were seen on 25 January and 2 were singing in the breeding season.
Dunnock Prunella modularis
One bird was recorded during the breeding season.
Robin Erithacus rubecula
A few can be seen in the hedgerows near the farm but a noticeable influx occurred on 25 October when 15+ were seen (coinciding with an arrival of Blackbirds).
Whinchat Saxicola rubetra
A male on 2 May was the first record of the year with two seen on 17 May being the only other spring migrants. One on 17 August was the only autumn migrant.
Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe
First bird recorded 17 March with ones and twos seen until 22 April when six were present. In May 12 were present on 17th and 6 on 20th which were the last birds of the spring.
The first “autumn” bird was seen on 2 August with singles on several dates in September and October apart from 12 October when four birds were present.
Blackbird Turdus merula
Present all year round in the hedgerows surrounding the RSPB reserve but in surprisingly small numbers (only one bird found during the breeding bird survey for example). Undoubtedly under-recorded but a noticeable influx noted on 25 October when 20+ birds could be found around the lanes inland of the RSPB reserve.
Fieldfare Turdus pilaris
Numbers in the first winter period were unremarkable apart from 50 on 15 January. The first returning birds of the autumn were seen on 14 October when 11 birds arrived with small numbers frequenting the reserve area for the following weeks. A flock of up to 260 birds could be seen around the car park and approach road during the December cold spell. Away from the reserve but still in the HOM recording area 1200 were seen near the banks of the Douglas on 23 October; a day of mass Fieldfare arrival in the UK in general.
Song Thrush Turdus philomelos
Scarce at HOM with just four records during the year, all single birds in January, February and October.
Redwing Turdus iliacus
Possibly under-recorded but noticeably scarcer than Fieldfare at HOM with records from just four dates. Ten on 25 October was the most recorded in a day.
Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus
Singles Jan 11 - 21 and 3 - 17 November.
Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
Present 2 May – 8 August with 2 singing males on 19 May.
Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus
Two birds present in the breeding season.
Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca
A juvenile frequented the hedgerow south of the seawall on the RSPB reserve 5 – 14 August.
Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis
Present 2 April – 2 September with up to 5 present in the breeding season.
Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus
Recorded from 11 April – 19 August with two birds present 21 April and 14 – 15 August.
Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita
Scarce at HOM with singles on 30 March, 19 April and 1 September. Three were seen on 29 April.
Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus
Recorded on twelve dates this year from February – November with a maximum count of 30 on October 12.
Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus
Very small numbers again this year with just 2 birds seen.
Coal Tit Parus ater
Two in the hedgerow near Karen’s Viewpoint early in the morning of 12 October flew off east. A rare bird at HOM.
Goldcrest Regulus regulus
Singles on six dates between 21 September and 26 November.
Black-billed Magpie Pica pica
Under recorded; 6 on 25 January.
Jackdaw Corvus monedula
Rare this year at HOM with 1 on 12 March and 2 on 21 September. Birds seen later in the autumn included 41 (37 heading south) on October 14 and 17 (all heading south) on October 25.
Carrion Crow Corvus corone
Best count of 60 was made on 15 July.
Eurasian Jay Garullus glandarius
Another rare Corvid at HOM. All records: 1 August 17, 2 October 1, 1 November 17.
Raven Corvus corax
One or two birds seen in the recording area every month except June – July.
Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris
There were no counts for the first winter period but a series of high counts during October involved some birds noted on visible migration (flying east). This movement was reduced by mid-morning with no birds noted around midday.
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Quite rare at HOM although small numbers can sometimes be found near the farm. One count of 9 on December 31 was exceptional.
Tree Sparrow Passer montanus
Present March through to the end of the year and breeds around the farm along the entrance road. Only recorded in small numbers in the first half of 2010 until 60 were seen on 17 June. Numbers dwindled somewhat during the autumn until a flock of 25+ frequented the weedy field near the car park in the cold weather of December.
Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs
It was strange to see this species outnumbered by Brambling in the autumn! Peak counts of 25 were made on two dates in December when Chaffinches joined Bramblings and Linnets in the weedy field near the car park in the cold weather.
Brambling Fringilla montifringilla
Previously not recorded at HOM (at least there were no documented records); late 2010 turned out to be a “bumper year” for this Scandinavian finch around the reserve.
The first Bramblings of the autumn were noted during a period of early morning visible migration on 14 October when 3 were seen heading south with Chaffinches. Bramblings began to congregate with the mixed feeding finch flock in the weedy field near the car park from 18 November when 7 were found and the flock remained at 6-7 birds until December when double figure counts were made on several occasions. By mid-December up to 40 birds could be seen, with the flock peaking at 55 on 28 December before dropping quite dramatically to 16 by the end of the year. The dispersal coincided with the thaw after a period of severe weather.
Eurasian Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula
A female was present in the shooting club copse south of the RSPB reserve on 25 October.
European Greenfinch Carduelis chloris
Appears to be mainly an autumn visitor on or near the reserve with most records September – November. Best counts were of 30 on September 11 and 45 on November 7.
European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis
Apart from a record of 15 on 11 January all birds were seen between March and September. Two birds were recorded on the breeding bird survey but by far the highest counts were on 21 September when 120 were seen.
Linnet Carduelis cannabina
Recorded March – December. High counts were received in March (67), June (95), July (90), September (340), November (440) and December (550).
Eurasian Siskin Carduelis spinus
Singles 12 March and 12 October, 4 headed south 14 October and 2 on 25 October were the only records.
Twite Carduelis flavirostris
Records of single birds on 21 April (singing male on RSPB reserve), 13 November and 11 and 21 December.
Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella
Recorded on thirteen dates from 6 March – 7 December with at least one male holding territory in the breeding season. Numbers were low with the peak count being five birds on 18 November.
Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus
First winter period peak occurred between 25 – 31 January when up to 18 birds were present on the reserve. Up to three males were present in the breeding season and the second winter period was much better for this species at HOM with 30 present on 23 November and 40 – 60 counted between 7 December and the end of the year.
Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus
HOM enjoyed its fair share of records during this species’ influx to the UK in the second half of 2010. The first bird was seen on the seawall just west of Karen’s Viewpoint on 11 September with the second accompanying Skylarks on the Ribble saltmarsh just ten days later. Thereafter one or two Lapland Buntings seemed to be in residence in the stubble fields in the eastern section of the RSPB reserve or the weedy field near the car park. Most sightings were of singles, usually fly-overs identified by their distinctive flight calls) but two were seen on 23 November and up to three birds frequented the car park area 23 – 24 December in cold weather and heavy snow. The final sighting of the year was of a lone bird on 28 December and this species became more difficult to find once the finch flocks dispersed with the onset of the thaw after Christmas.
Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra
Present February – December with peak first winter count of 20 on 9 March and 25 on 24 December.
Mammals and insects.
Up to 25 Brown Hares were seen at HOM in a single day and Red Fox, Stoat and Weasel were seen on the reserve. Butterflies recorded included Common Blue (200 0n 27 July), Gatekeeper, Green-veined White, Meadow Brown, Red Admiral, Small Copper and Small Tortoiseshell. Single Blue-tailed Damselfly and Brown Hawker represented the only Odonata records but Buff-tailed Bumblebee, Red-tailed Bumblebee and White-tailed Bumblebee were all recorded on 27 July.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to all RSPB staff, volunteers and birdwatchers that generously gave their time and contributed with their sightings: Ribble Estuary Nature Facebook Page, BirdGuides, Dave Mallett, Ken Abram, Tony Baker, John Bannon, Andy Bate, Dave Bickerton, Colin Bushell, Graham Clarkson, Stephen Dunstan, Charlie Ligget, Vera Marsden, Martin McDerby, Ron Jackson, Keith Sawyer, Rhys Richards, RSPB Southport Office, Bill Aspin, Carl Winkley, Edward Jennings, John Edwards, Jonathan Scragg, Lee Harrison and Nick Godden.
Mammals and insects.
Up to 25 Brown Hares were seen at HOM in a single day and Red Fox, Stoat and Weasel were seen on the reserve. Butterflies recorded included Common Blue (200 0n 27 July), Gatekeeper, Green-veined White, Meadow Brown, Red Admiral, Small Copper and Small Tortoiseshell. Single Blue-tailed Damselfly and Brown Hawker represented the only Odonata records but Buff-tailed Bumblebee, Red-tailed Bumblebee and White-tailed Bumblebee were all recorded on 27 July.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to all RSPB staff, volunteers and birdwatchers that generously gave their time and contributed with their sightings: Ribble Estuary Nature Facebook Page, BirdGuides, Dave Mallett, Ken Abram, Tony Baker, John Bannon, Andy Bate, Dave Bickerton, Colin Bushell, Graham Clarkson, Stephen Dunstan, Charlie Ligget, Vera Marsden, Martin McDerby, Ron Jackson, Keith Sawyer, Rhys Richards, RSPB Southport Office, Bill Aspin, Carl Winkley, Edward Jennings, John Edwards, Jonathan Scragg, Lee Harrison and Nick Godden.
