Bath and District Local Group Newsletter
Contents
- Group Leader's notes
- Local RSPB Members honoured
- All about Albatross
- Past events
- Reports on Outdoor meetings
- Reports on Indoor meetings
- Forthcoming events
- Outdoor meeting dates
- Indoor meeting talks
- Your committee
The Group welcomes contributions to the Newsletter
Editors
Digital - Robert Hargreaves Printed - Val Mead
Group Leader's notes
David Robertson writes
I am writing these notes, sitting in my baking office at the height of a summer heatwave and it is hard to believe that it was only a few weeks ago we were suffering from ‘The Beast from the East’! The poor weather in the Spring did, however, have an adverse effect on the incoming bird migrants. They experienced poor weather all the way up from Africa, so that many arrived in the UK up to a month late. It remains to be seen what impact this will have on current nesting successes.
Our indoor and outdoor meetings programmes for next year have been finalised as a result of the hard work of Linda Adams and Tom Pinckheard respectively. Tom has been quite seriously ill over the last few months, spending some time in hospital, but I am glad to say he is now getting back to his usual level of fitness. Luckily, he has a very supportive team of experienced colleagues who have been invaluable over recent months and we are very grateful for their input.
Our financial state continues to be satisfactory. Thus, although we are in a position to donate a further £500 to RSPB reed-bed projects, the Committee has decided to defer doing so until we are clear about the financial implications of our 50th Anniversary Celebrations. Membership has been stable around 200, and your continued donations and raffle contributions are very much appreciated. Stamps are still flowing in to support the Albatross Project.
Keep them coming!
As always, we are very grateful for the support given to the Group by London Camera Exchange and Prior Park Garden Centre.
We shall be celebrating our 50th Anniversary in Autumn 2019 and the Bath Committee, aided by a national project team, is planning a great event to mark the occasion.
The Bath Swift Group’s 2018 Swift Survey is underway as I write. Articles in local residents’ newsletters have resulted in our attention being brought to some possible swift screaming parties and nest sites. A comparison with last year’s results should prove interesting! We have helped set up a Swift Group in East Harptree. UK Swift Awareness Week in June held a swift ‘talk and walk’ in Widcombe. On that walk, we watched a female sparrowhawk attempting to pick off swifts as they approached their nest sites. She failed on all occasions! Swift boxes have been installed in the tower at St Mark’s Community Centre. Stewart Owen continues to do a fantastic job as the survey coordinator and chief swift box-fixer and adviser.
Nationally, the RSPB has been focussing, amongst other topics, on the benefits people can gain from contact with nature. A walk through a peaceful wood or strolling through a park listening to the birds chirping can be the perfect tonic to a difficult day. Whether suffering from a mental health illness, going through a difficult time in life or simply feeling the stress of day-to-day life, we can all benefit from stepping outside and enjoying the natural world around us. Many things can lead to feeling stressed, depressed or anxious: exams; bereavements; caring for a loved one; unemployment or stress at work. These can have a huge impact on our overall health but studies have shown that spending time with nature can reduce stress and help fight depression and anxiety. As nature-lovers, I am sure we all endorse this view!
Thank you all for your continued support, both nationally and locally, I look forward to seeing you at the next indoor meeting.
The Albatross
A message from the Albatross Task Force: Help us stamp out albatross deaths!
 |
Past Events
Wednesday 15th December 2017 - Portland / Weymouth
Led by Dave Newman, Written by Tony Cook
On a wet and windy day, 30 members set out by coach to Ferrybridge to start our day in and around Weymouth. The weather was not on our side and the forecast for our destination didn’t look any better so waterproof clothing was the order of the day.
 |
| Proof of our dedication |
On arriving at Ferrybridge we all gathered behind the café to try and keep out of the wind and rain but with the rain dripping off the roof this proved to be impossible but we did manage to spot some common waders along with red-breasted merganser and 4 brent geese and some skylarks. We then moved under the bridge where the Fleet flows into Portland harbour, this proved a wise choice as it was out of the wind and rain, we soon picked up a great northern diver which at times came very close giving everyone very good views, also there was a little egret and a kingfisher on the top of a post. Shags were very prominent which gave the leaders a chance to point out the main difference between them and cormorants especially the way they dive looking for food. A little grebe also put in an appearance.
 |
| Red-breasted Merganser battling against the waves |
It was soon time to move on to Radipole where we split into smaller groups and did our own thing and luckily the rain went off and most of the group saw 11 Heron sheltering from the wind with a lot of teal and snipe hiding in the vegetation. On the reserve were marsh harrier and a single Mediterranean gull with a few common pochard. But we didn’t find or hear bearded tits that were on our hoped-for list! Some of the group managed to get to the viewing screens where they saw black-tailed godwit and stonechat.
Then off for a quick visit to Lodmoor which proved to be very good for waders as there were 5 ruff which were very close offering good views, also there were many lapwing, snipe and dunlin plus a few black-tailed godwit.
Everyone agreed that despite the weather we had a very successful day with 57 species being seen.
 |
| Ruff finding some calm at Lodmoor |
Buzzard, jackdaw, wood pigeon, magpie, starling, carrion crow, rook, lesser black back gull, robin, mute swan, herring gull, black-headed gull, blackbird, dunlin, ringed plover, oystercatcher, turnstone, brent goose, great black back gull, skylark, meadow pipit, red-breasted merganser, shag, little egret, kingfisher, little grebe, guillemot, chaffinch, great northern diver, tufted duck, teal, shoveler, shelduck, gadwall, snipe, coot, moorhen, Mediterranean gull, dunnock, blue tit, marsh harrier, common pochard, great tit, cetti’s warbler, mallard, cormorant, heron, wren, pied wagtail, common gull, lapwing, ruff, black-tailed godwit, stonechat, long-tailed tit, goldcrest, bullfinch.
★57 species
Editor: Our stalwart members were rewarded for their perseverance
Sunday 25 February - Blashford Lakes
Led and written by Lucy Delve
Seventeen members gathered by the reserve reception building about 10.00 and set off on a circular walk that included visits via Snails Lake to both the Woodland and Ivy South hides. We had glorious sunshine all day with only light winds: good conditions for watching and listening out for any birdsong or calls.
We spent about 20 minutes in the Woodland hide watching small birds on and around the feeders. Species included reed bunting, chaffinch, long-tailed tit, greenfinch and both male and female brambling. From Ivy South hide, we found the predicted common species of waterfowl. The wigeon were not very vocal and we only heard a few whistles as well as the odd rasping quack of the gadwall. Teal were keeping a low profile around parts of the well-vegetated banks.
A walk through the woodland to Ivy Lane was fairly quiet. A female sparrowhawk dashed through the trees, alarming the long-tailed tits and also, no doubt, the treecreepers. Even so, the treecreepers were quite confiding and it was great to hear the male’s short, high pitched song – of similar delivery to that of a chaffinch. Two little grebes were found on Ellingham Lake, while we had a somewhat hazardous period birding along Ivy Lane. However, in between dodging the local traffic, we saw jay, goldcrest and bullfinch, and heard great spotted woodpecker and nuthatch.
Back in the reserve, some members saw a green sandpiper and a kingfisher. Snails Lake was quite devoid of significant numbers of wildfowl and nothing new was added to our wildfowl list. Retracing our steps to Ivy Lake, we noted pochard and wigeon at close quarters, and a pair of great crested grebes were engaged in their courtship display.
As we returned to the first car parking area near the open ground, I saw a red kite drifting low over the trees, drew attention to it by shouting loudly, but even so, a few unfortunate members were not in the right place to get a view of the bird. The colours of the kite were superb against the blue sky.
 |
| For the second time this season, Lucy bags her target bird: a firecrest! |
After a lunch break, we meandered across the road to the other three hides; some members visiting all three, while I took most members into the Goosander and then the Tern hide, to end the day looking through the growing gull roost. Before all that, we had an extended stop to watch a very active firecrest feeding in a small area not too far from the path. This was a new species for two members. Target bird in the bag!
Back to wildfowl, we added pintail to our total, a male which was close to the Goosander hide. The goosander flock were gathered on or near the bank to the right of the Tern hide. Some members saw a distant male goldeneye and a lone oystercatcher. The highlights from the Tern hide were several Mediterranean gulls among the black-headed, common, herring and lesser-black backed species. The ‘hard core’ gull enthusiasts and experts were arriving, and one such individual spotted a ring-billed gull. We eventually had good views of the bird – thanks to his excellent directions.
 |
| Brambling looking for better conditions |
Before leaving the reserve, there was time to re-visit the Woodland hide and watch birds coming to the feeders by the centre building, these included coal tit, brambling and siskin.
 |
| Greenfinch pretending to be a Siskin |
Most members went home having seen 50+ species during a most enjoyable day out at this excellent nature reserve.
Editor: A brilliant day's birding - thanks, once again, to Lucy
Sunday 25 March - Savernake Forest
Sunday 25 March - Savernake Forest
Led and written by Tom Rogers
Savernake Forest is an area of ancient woodland and was a Royal Forest under William the Conqueror. It is currently managed by the Forestry Commission. The area we visited was covered mainly by Beech and Oak of which many are named which provides a good reference point as it is quite easy to get lost in the forest. So always walk with a map and compass.
One example of the ancient oaks
On a dry & slightly cloudy day 15 members plus the leader assembled in Postern Picnic site. We were then joined by a member of Wiltshire Ornithological Society [WOS] who was to be our guide for the day.
We started by listening and watching a good number of birds in the car park. These included a drumming great spotted woodpecker, loud nuthatches and a treecreeper of which we were to see good numbers throughout the day. Moving on we then heard a sound that was to be repeated all day the ‘yaffle’ of a green woodpecker. The bird was then located in the top of a tree giving good views to everyone. As we then traversed through the forest great spotted woodpecker, drumming continued everywhere we went.
We were then taken to an area near Braydon Hook House which our guide suggested was a good spot for bullfinch. On cue, we were treated to good views of a number of bullfinches. After this, we moved on to Thornhill Nursery to pause for lunch. Near to our lunch spot was a pond which looked full of toads with several mating. From the pond, we made our way down to the ‘Sawpit Drive’ track. This track connects to the ‘Grand Avenue’ at ‘Eight Walks’. The ‘Grand Avenue’ is a 3 mile road that bisects the forest allowing vehicles to penetrate deep into the forest.
Chiffchaff in the woods
After ‘Sawpit Drive’ we made our way back to an area near Braydon Hook House where we heard a call that we suspected was the much sought after lesser spotted woodpecker but we were unable to locate its position. So finally we returned to our starting position at about 16.00 having walked almost 6 miles.
Birds:-
Blackbird, Jay, Blue Tit, Lesser Black Backed Gull, Bullfinch, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (h)? Buzzard, Long-tailed Tit, Canada Goose, Marsh Tit, Carrion Crow, Mistle Thrush, Chaffinch, Nuthatch, Chiffchaff, Red Kite, Coal Tit, Redwing, Collard Dove, Robin, Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Goldfinch, Sparrowhawk? Great Spotted Woodpecker, Stock Dove, Great Tit, Treecreeper, Green Woodpecker, Wood Pigeon, Jackdaw, Wren
Others:-
Fallow Deer, Grey Squirrel, Toads
15 walkers and 32 species. Pictures by Suk Kam Trippier
Editor: An excellent habitat yields its treasures
Led and written by Tom Rogers
Savernake Forest is an area of ancient woodland and was a Royal Forest under William the Conqueror. It is currently managed by the Forestry Commission. The area we visited was covered mainly by Beech and Oak of which many are named which provides a good reference point as it is quite easy to get lost in the forest. So always walk with a map and compass.
 |
| One example of the ancient oaks |
We started by listening and watching a good number of birds in the car park. These included a drumming great spotted woodpecker, loud nuthatches and a treecreeper of which we were to see good numbers throughout the day. Moving on we then heard a sound that was to be repeated all day the ‘yaffle’ of a green woodpecker. The bird was then located in the top of a tree giving good views to everyone. As we then traversed through the forest great spotted woodpecker, drumming continued everywhere we went.
We were then taken to an area near Braydon Hook House which our guide suggested was a good spot for bullfinch. On cue, we were treated to good views of a number of bullfinches. After this, we moved on to Thornhill Nursery to pause for lunch. Near to our lunch spot was a pond which looked full of toads with several mating. From the pond, we made our way down to the ‘Sawpit Drive’ track. This track connects to the ‘Grand Avenue’ at ‘Eight Walks’. The ‘Grand Avenue’ is a 3 mile road that bisects the forest allowing vehicles to penetrate deep into the forest.
 |
| Chiffchaff in the woods |
Birds:-
Blackbird, Jay, Blue Tit, Lesser Black Backed Gull, Bullfinch, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (h)? Buzzard, Long-tailed Tit, Canada Goose, Marsh Tit, Carrion Crow, Mistle Thrush, Chaffinch, Nuthatch, Chiffchaff, Red Kite, Coal Tit, Redwing, Collard Dove, Robin, Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Goldfinch, Sparrowhawk? Great Spotted Woodpecker, Stock Dove, Great Tit, Treecreeper, Green Woodpecker, Wood Pigeon, Jackdaw, Wren
Others:-
Fallow Deer, Grey Squirrel, Toads
15 walkers and 32 species. Pictures by Suk Kam Trippier
Editor: An excellent habitat yields its treasures
Sunday 22 April - Dundas Canal and Conkwell
Sunday 22 April - Dundas Canal and Conkwell
Led and written by Terry Doman
Led and written by Terry Doman
20 members joined the leader for a walk along short sections of the Somersetshire Coal Canal and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
After a quick safety brief and an overview of the industrial history of the area which included the two canals and the GWR Railway, we made a start toward the Dundas Aqueduct. A male blackcap was in full song and seen on the way.
We walked onto the Dundas Aqueduct and looked up and down the Avon for signs of a kingfisher, (seen a week earlier by the leader) but none were seen on the day. On the grass verge of the Aqueduct were approximately 20 plants of Lady's smock/Cuckoo flower. The leader was just explaining how this was the food plant for Orange Tip Butterflies and - what was this coming along - an Orange Tip, and it landed on the Cuckoo flowers - how about that, great fun!
Onward and upward to the heights of Conkwell village. Raven and buzzard were seen on the way. From the top were outstanding views across the valley to the Bath University.
Along the heights toward Winsley, skylarks were singing and seen, plus good close views of mistle thrush. We then returned down Winsley Hill and back along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
20 walkers
Editor: A great local venue wonderfully brought to life by Terry
20 members joined the leader for a walk along short sections of the Somersetshire Coal Canal and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Onward and upward to the heights of Conkwell village. Raven and buzzard were seen on the way. From the top were outstanding views across the valley to the Bath University.
Along the heights toward Winsley, skylarks were singing and seen, plus good close views of mistle thrush. We then returned down Winsley Hill and back along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
20 walkers
Editor: A great local venue wonderfully brought to life by Terry
Sunday 19 May - Arne Nature Reserve
Sunday 19 May - Arne Nature Reserve
We were sorry that Tom Pinckherad was unable to lead us but very grateful to Lucy Delve, Robert Hargreaves and Terry Doman for stepping into the leadership breach.
Led and written by Lucy Delve
Thirty-seven members arrived at the reserve and met up with four others, who had travelled independently. The initial idea of splitting into three groups failed, as all three leaders wished to take off on the Coombe Heath trail! So, having left a few members to walk around at their own pace, the majority set off as quietly as possible, soon to be rewarded with close views of a Dartford warbler. It was heard singing in gorse to the right of the path, then the male conveniently flew across to the other side where it sang in full view. From here, a distant tree pipit was heard but, sadly, no woodlark.
Dartford Warbler
Birding was difficult in the bright sunshine and heat haze, and many birds were quiet, except for the linnets. Most members had views of stonechat, while everyone saw and heard meadow pipits, often in song flight.
In the wooded area, we encountered chiffchaff, willow warbler, blackcap and great spotted woodpecker. In oak trees near the overspill car park, the call of a spotted flycatcher was heard and most members managed to see the bird on a tree stump. Earlier, some members saw a hobby but everyone missed the osprey that had flown through previously.
Dumbledore Trail
After lunch, during which siskins entertained us on the feeders, Robert lead us along the Dumbledore trail to the hide overlooking Poole Harbour. We encountered common whitethroat, mistle thrush and starlings along the way. From the hide, notable species seen and heard included whimbrel, oystercatcher, cormorant, great blacked-backed gull, sandwich tern and shelduck. A male cuckoo called briefly as we headed back inland to the car park. Tom Rogers had found a great spotted woodpecker’s nest on a previous visit when he had wonderful views of a juvenile; sadly, the nest site was not being used this year.
Altogether a most satisfactory day.
37 walkers and 52 species.
Editor: Were the 37 too busy observing birds to have time to photograph them?
We were sorry that Tom Pinckherad was unable to lead us but very grateful to Lucy Delve, Robert Hargreaves and Terry Doman for stepping into the leadership breach.
Led and written by Lucy Delve
Thirty-seven members arrived at the reserve and met up with four others, who had travelled independently. The initial idea of splitting into three groups failed, as all three leaders wished to take off on the Coombe Heath trail! So, having left a few members to walk around at their own pace, the majority set off as quietly as possible, soon to be rewarded with close views of a Dartford warbler. It was heard singing in gorse to the right of the path, then the male conveniently flew across to the other side where it sang in full view. From here, a distant tree pipit was heard but, sadly, no woodlark.
 |
| Dartford Warbler |
In the wooded area, we encountered chiffchaff, willow warbler, blackcap and great spotted woodpecker. In oak trees near the overspill car park, the call of a spotted flycatcher was heard and most members managed to see the bird on a tree stump. Earlier, some members saw a hobby but everyone missed the osprey that had flown through previously.
 |
| Dumbledore Trail |
Altogether a most satisfactory day.
37 walkers and 52 species.
Sunday 16 June - Wentwood, Newport Wetlands and Goldcliff
Sunday 16 June - Wentwood, Newport Wetlands and Goldcliff
Led and written by Lucy Delve
Eleven of us braved a dismal grey, breezy and mostly wet day in Wales before the clouds cleared late afternoon as we were departing Goldcliff!
At Wentwood, we initially set off in search of wood warbler and spotted flycatcher on a short walk into the mixed coniferous and deciduous woodland on the other side of the road from Cadira Beeches car park. Both these species had been seen here on the recce back in May. A brief trill (part of the wood warbler’s song) alerted us and we moved into position as the bird continued to make just its soft ‘tuh’ at fairly regular intervals. Fortunately, the bird was moving towards us and most of the group had a brief but good view of it flitting among beech leaves. Simultaneously, the calls of a spotted flycatcher were heard, then one was found not far away from where we had seen the wood warbler.
One of us wandered further into the wood and located a willow warbler family and a firecrest. Apart from these two target species, other birds encountered included siskin, blackcap and chiffchaff.
We then explored the other side of the road, where many trees had been felled, leaving a large clearing with a number of tall trees: ideal habitat for tree pipit. A few of them were heard and seen during the late morning, along with common whitethroat and willow warbler. (A garden warbler had been heard here back in May.) A crossbill flew overhead, calling, but our glasses and binoculars were covered in rainwater so we could not see it! It was good to find another spotted flycatcher in the opened-up area; it was an adult bird with food in its bill, no doubt ready to drop into its nest.
Around 11.40, we drove to Newport Wetlands, grateful to find warm shelter and hot food! The conditions here were not favourable, but we ventured as far as the coastal path to view the Bristol Channel. A sharp-eyed member picked up a kittiwake in flight and there were shelduck and curlew on the mud flats. A reed warbler sang briefly near the centre and we did have good views of a reed bunting singing on top of a small willow. A pair of little grebe with a youngster entertained us from the warmth of the café.
Last of all was a walk around Goldcliff, visiting all the hides. Having seen numerous pairs of avocet with young fledgelings on the recce, disappointingly, we could only locate two grown youngsters. There was a flock of dunlin at close range that could be seen from the first hide, along with little ringed plover, ringed plover and a couple of sanderling in summer plumage. Redshank were very active and noisy, as were a number of oystercatchers. A sub-adult Mediterranean gull was found among a small flock of black-headed gulls and wildfowl that included gadwall, teal and shoveler. Raven and skylark called overhead and we heard common whitethroat from the hawthorns.
11 walkers and 50 species.
Editor: Sounds like this trip was a triumph of tenacity over dismal circumstances: seeing and hearing so many target birds, despite the weather, was a just reward. However, perhaps not surprisingly, no one was able to take any photographs.
Led and written by Lucy Delve
Eleven of us braved a dismal grey, breezy and mostly wet day in Wales before the clouds cleared late afternoon as we were departing Goldcliff!
At Wentwood, we initially set off in search of wood warbler and spotted flycatcher on a short walk into the mixed coniferous and deciduous woodland on the other side of the road from Cadira Beeches car park. Both these species had been seen here on the recce back in May. A brief trill (part of the wood warbler’s song) alerted us and we moved into position as the bird continued to make just its soft ‘tuh’ at fairly regular intervals. Fortunately, the bird was moving towards us and most of the group had a brief but good view of it flitting among beech leaves. Simultaneously, the calls of a spotted flycatcher were heard, then one was found not far away from where we had seen the wood warbler.
One of us wandered further into the wood and located a willow warbler family and a firecrest. Apart from these two target species, other birds encountered included siskin, blackcap and chiffchaff.
We then explored the other side of the road, where many trees had been felled, leaving a large clearing with a number of tall trees: ideal habitat for tree pipit. A few of them were heard and seen during the late morning, along with common whitethroat and willow warbler. (A garden warbler had been heard here back in May.) A crossbill flew overhead, calling, but our glasses and binoculars were covered in rainwater so we could not see it! It was good to find another spotted flycatcher in the opened-up area; it was an adult bird with food in its bill, no doubt ready to drop into its nest.
Around 11.40, we drove to Newport Wetlands, grateful to find warm shelter and hot food! The conditions here were not favourable, but we ventured as far as the coastal path to view the Bristol Channel. A sharp-eyed member picked up a kittiwake in flight and there were shelduck and curlew on the mud flats. A reed warbler sang briefly near the centre and we did have good views of a reed bunting singing on top of a small willow. A pair of little grebe with a youngster entertained us from the warmth of the café.
Last of all was a walk around Goldcliff, visiting all the hides. Having seen numerous pairs of avocet with young fledgelings on the recce, disappointingly, we could only locate two grown youngsters. There was a flock of dunlin at close range that could be seen from the first hide, along with little ringed plover, ringed plover and a couple of sanderling in summer plumage. Redshank were very active and noisy, as were a number of oystercatchers. A sub-adult Mediterranean gull was found among a small flock of black-headed gulls and wildfowl that included gadwall, teal and shoveler. Raven and skylark called overhead and we heard common whitethroat from the hawthorns.
11 walkers and 50 species.
Editor: Sounds like this trip was a triumph of tenacity over dismal circumstances: seeing and hearing so many target birds, despite the weather, was a just reward. However, perhaps not surprisingly, no one was able to take any photographs.
Past events
INDOOR MEETING REPORT Linda Adams
15 December 2017
Linda Adams
enlivened the AGM with her talk about her participation in
Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park Annual Census
Linda explained that her love of African wildlife began in 1974 when she spent seven years as a nurse in Zimbabwe. She has returned four times to take part in the Hwange National Park census.
The size of Belgium, Hwange has a chequered history: originally it was the hunting grounds of the Matabele Chiefs; then failed farmland (through poor soil and predation); reverting to a free-for-all hunting; saved for wildlife in 1928 by Ted Davison et al and finally in 1961, it was declared a National Park.
Hwange Census As custodians of this remarkable wildlife refuge, the authorities obviously need to know the types, numbers and health of the animals concerned, so the census is carefully structured. The annual survey is as follows:
- Dated to coincide with a full moon.
- Taking place before the rains.
- Duration is 24 hours from noon to noon.
- An aerial reconnaissance takes place the week before to decide exactly where the survey teams should be located.
- Locations are often waterholes or fenced-off picnic areas with toilets and showers.
- Teams are appointed, each comprising three people, and vehicles are allocated.
Period of observation is 24 hours, for every single minute of which at least one of the team has to be on watch. The routine involved:
- Noting the following stats for each animal seen:
- Direction of travel
- Species
- Gender
- Age
- Injuries
- Snares
- Behaviour
- Noting the temperature every three hours
Editor notes: Just as well that Linda is a nurse, she must be used to staying awake and on her feet throughout the night!
- Monitoring the weather
RESULTS
2016
2017
Mammals
individuals
41,100
39,803
Birds
number of species
195
228
I want to be counted too
Linda reported that she found it very interesting to compare the results from the 2016 census (with which she was involved) to those of the following year (2017). She speculated that both the decrease in mammal numbers and the increase in bird species were caused by the tremendous rains brought that year by Cyclone Dineo. The abundance of water would have meant that animals spread out as they did not need to go to water holes. Also, that extra water might have encouraged more waders. As far as birds are concerned, however, the data need to be treated with caution, because birds were only first included in 2016. On the other hand, financial and fuel restraints cut down the numbers of counting teams in 2017 by 12, and that might also have affected the accuracy.
Footnote
Our readers will not need convincing of the importance of such a census, but 2017 brought a shocking reinforcement: it was reported that the Chinese were paying for 100 baby elephants to be sent to China. No wonder the elephants were somewhat skittish.
A great talk from one of our very own enterprising members!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT Peter Basterfield
17 January 2018
Peter Basterfield
Entertained us in his inimitable fashion on the subject of:
Wildlife in Your Garden
Because all Peter’s photos tell their own story, we have decided to devote this report to photos only.
Not just a straw finial on a thatched roof
but a real-life red-legged partridge!
Here’s why you must CLEAN YOUR BIRD FEEDERS
This chaffinch has badly furred-up feet: a fungus probably picked up from a contaminated bird table
Little auk found in a chicken coop in Marshfield
A scarcity of acorns on the continent in 1991 sent this nutcracker over to a Birmingham garden!
Another rare winter visitor: lesser redpoll, February 2012
A weary goldcrest landed on the beach
Then thought it would be safer on Mike Read’s trousers!
Peter also had great photos of animals. However, although it’s not likely we would miss foxes in our gardens, it is easier to overlook bugs! So, look out for these two:
Hawk-moth hummingbird
Marbled White
Superb photographs and huge depth of knowledge and information – thanks Peter!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT Dr Colin Ryall
On 22 February 2018
Dr Colin Ryall
came to explain the complex world of invasive species:
Introduced Birds and Other Species: Increased Biodiversity
or
a Conservation Nightmare?
Defining invasive alien species (IAS):
- Introduced by man
- New location
- Self-sustaining (i.e. not an individual like the occasional albatross off the British coast).
British examples of IAS:
- Elm, snowdrop, hare, rabbit, fallow deer, nettles.
Some consequences of IAS:
Decreased biodiversity, the extermination of endemic species.
Spread by human activity.
Homogenisation.
IAS are second most serious cause of loss of biodiversity. [the first is habitat destruction] Control needs international treaties
Invasive insects
Commercial:
Oak processionary moth—harlequin ladybird—rosemary beetle—Asian long-horn beetle—spruce bark beetle.
Household:
American cockroach—clothes moths—grain weevil
Familiar hybridisation examples:
White-headed and ruddy ducks
Red and Sika deer
Native and Spanish bluebell
Costs to UK of some IAS
Plants: £483 million
Plant-born pathogens: £403 million
Mammals: £402 million
Insects: £255 million
Birds: £6 million
Countries affected catastrophically:
Hawaii—Galapagos—New Zealand.
As islands, the native species are limited and have been isolated so it seems easier for alien species to take over. However, developing countries in Africa and Asia are also affected, particularly by IAS from South America.
From this picture of ducks feeding on azolla, it can be seen just how easily it’s transported elsewhere. However, the plant can form a dense carpet which may block oxygen and sunlight reaching aquatic plants, fish, and other aquatic wildlife. Azolla will not affect water quality, however in extreme events when a large amount of Azolla dies rapidly and sinks to the bottom, excessive nutrients are added to the water body, and water quality can be affected.
Having given these examples, it became easy to appreciate these typical effects of an IAS:
- Rapid increase in numbers
- Omnivorous
- Degraded ecosystems more easily invaded
- Pristine ecosystems ‘safer’
- Since any IAS lacks predators in the new habitat, less susceptible to disease
- Climate change may be exacerbating the problem.
What can be done?
This is THE question to which there seems to be no totally satisfactory answer.
For more information, see:
INDOOR MEETING REPORT David Kjaer
21 March 2018
David Kjaer came to our rescue by stepping in at the last minute to cover for a speaker who fell ill. We are most grateful to him. His topic was near to all our hearts:
The Wildlife of Wiltshire
With a dazzling set of photographs, David covered so much wildlife: birds - insects - animals - reptiles, that your editor has found it difficult to summarise, but basing her attempt on Wiltshire habitats, here goes:
Langford Lakes
- The new year here begins with our three species of newt laying eggs.
- Dragonfly larvae leave their overwintering quarters in moss that edges ponds to crawl into the water.
- Reed warbler numbers have declined dramatically…. ...
- … … but are compensated by the increase in Cettis.
- The mature dragonflies top the hobby menu as these wonderful birds can eat small items on the wing.
Longleat
- Firecrests, rare in the UK, have, however, been here for 25 years.
- Crossbill eruptions can number 300.
- The decline of nightjars has been arrested, because trees and undergrowth have been allowed to regrow and this provides a much better habitat.
- Although the trimmed edges of the lake are no good for waders, David predicted that ospreys will nest sometime soon.
- Tiny great crested grebes can be seen clinging to the backs of parents - even submerging as their parents dive for food.
Wiltshire downs
Strip Lynchets, Wilshire Downs
Successes
- Dotterel ‘trips’ can be seen most years.
- Stone curlews are thriving [snippet: the changeover of
- Great bustard numbers are expanding.
- Corn buntings and yellowhammers still present in good numbers.
- Look in dry areas for adders and in long, damp grassy areas for grass snakes. Slow worms survive here, too.
- Wiltshire very good for brown hares: boxing tends not to be a male-face-off but an interaction between male and female.
Negative footnotes
- Nightingales are declining.
- Redstart is now scarce.
- Whinchat and cuckoo are declining, as they are globally.
At a quick glance, could this be eggs?
NO, they are dormousehaving a daytime nap
Reverting to success:
The Wiltshire Downs are among the best places in the UK for butterflies and moths. David showed us some excellent pictures, which would help in identification.
Despite having a gorgeous blue upper-wing, one of the best ways of
identifying an Adonis blue is to look at the underwing
Some moth trap hints:
- Purple emperors are attracted to banana skins.
- Don’t put out moth traps two nights in succession, because as moths can’t feed in the traps, they’ll starve.
- Don’t place the trap where the rising sun will catch them.
- The best month is June.
Remember the ugly duckling song?
It applies here too: often the most beautiful butterflies have the most unattractive caterpillars!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT John Geeson
18 April 2018
Once again, Bath RSPB was grateful to a lecturer John Geeson for coming to our rescue at short notice as our advertised speaker was indisposed. He spoke to us about:
The Pantenal: Jaguars and Much More
John started by explaining why the Pantenal is such a good wildlife habitat: forest has been cleared for agriculture so that visibility is much better than in the usual Brazilian rainforests: also cattle don’t thrive on the poor soil and farmers are not adverse to being paid for protecting wildlife like jaguars and handing over tracts of land for reserves. David Attenborough agrees: he described the long road leading into the Pantenal as ’one of the best wildlife roads in the world’
A plastic jabiru phone box -
but John hastened to add this was a rarity
Driving along this road gives a great foretaste of the rich birdlife to be found. The ponds are full of easily seen waders, such as roseate spoonbill, snowy egret, various herons, sunbittern, tiger heron, wood stork, the four ibises and, of course, the amazing jabiru stork.
‘Real’ jabirus can be seen nesting along the route - accompanied by their symbiotic monk parakeets. Also, rheas, caracaras, hawks, curassows and screamers (with their silly feet) abound.
Once in the Pantenal, John stayed in lodges and in this floating hotel that was moored in the Cuiaba River: venues giving unrivalled opportunities for wildlife watching.
Without doubt the most beautiful Pantanal bird is the agami heron:-
Agami Heron
Then, there’s the amazing southern grebe, the male of which has wing pouches to carry the young. With birds like this, it’s hard to understand why Brazil chose a thrush as its national bird?
Chestnut-breasted Thrush
A great opportunity to compare bills:
hyacinth macaw, toco toucan (of Guinness fame), yellow-billed tern and black skimmer
Most non-birders go, of course, to see jaguars - and how right they are, as jaguars are fabulous and very easily seen in this habitat.
This is because the fast-flowing river carves out high banks: perfect as a vantage point for jaguars to hunt cayman and fish. (Amazingly enough, some tour operators offer their customers a free, repeat tour if they don’t see a jaguar!)
Once there, however, it is impossible to ignore all the other animals: giant river otters, capybaras, howlers monkeys, coati, racoons, ocelots and, of course, the amazing giant anteater.
Pantenal—the place to go for birds and JAGUARS
15 December 2017
Linda Adams
enlivened the AGM with her talk about her participation in
Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park Annual Census
Linda explained that her love of African wildlife began in 1974 when she spent seven years as a nurse in Zimbabwe. She has returned four times to take part in the Hwange National Park census.
The size of Belgium, Hwange has a chequered history: originally it was the hunting grounds of the Matabele Chiefs; then failed farmland (through poor soil and predation); reverting to a free-for-all hunting; saved for wildlife in 1928 by Ted Davison et al and finally in 1961, it was declared a National Park.
Hwange Census As custodians of this remarkable wildlife refuge, the authorities obviously need to know the types, numbers and health of the animals concerned, so the census is carefully structured. The annual survey is as follows:
- Dated to coincide with a full moon.
- Taking place before the rains.
- Duration is 24 hours from noon to noon.
- An aerial reconnaissance takes place the week before to decide exactly where the survey teams should be located.
- Locations are often waterholes or fenced-off picnic areas with toilets and showers.
- Teams are appointed, each comprising three people, and vehicles are allocated.
- Noting the following stats for each animal seen:
- Direction of travel
- Species
- Gender
- Age
- Injuries
- Snares
- Behaviour
- Noting the temperature every three hours
Editor notes: Just as well that Linda is a nurse, she must be used to staying awake and on her feet throughout the night!
- Monitoring the weather
- RESULTS20162017Mammalsindividuals41,10039,803Birdsnumber of species195228
 |
| I want to be counted too |
Footnote
Our readers will not need convincing of the importance of such a census, but 2017 brought a shocking reinforcement: it was reported that the Chinese were paying for 100 baby elephants to be sent to China. No wonder the elephants were somewhat skittish.
A great talk from one of our very own enterprising members!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT Peter Basterfield
17 January 2018
Peter Basterfield
Entertained us in his inimitable fashion on the subject of:
Because all Peter’s photos tell their own story, we have decided to devote this report to photos only.
Here’s why you must CLEAN YOUR BIRD FEEDERS
Peter Basterfield
Entertained us in his inimitable fashion on the subject of:
Wildlife in Your Garden
Because all Peter’s photos tell their own story, we have decided to devote this report to photos only.
 |
Not just a straw finial on a thatched roof
but a real-life red-legged partridge! |
 |
| This chaffinch has badly furred-up feet: a fungus probably picked up from a contaminated bird table |
 |
| Little auk found in a chicken coop in Marshfield |
 |
| A scarcity of acorns on the continent in 1991 sent this nutcracker over to a Birmingham garden! |
 |
| Another rare winter visitor: lesser redpoll, February 2012 |
 |
| A weary goldcrest landed on the beach |
|
| Then thought it would be safer on Mike Read’s trousers! |
Peter also had great photos of animals. However, although it’s not likely we would miss foxes in our gardens, it is easier to overlook bugs! So, look out for these two:
 |
| Hawk-moth hummingbird |
 |
| Marbled White |
Superb photographs and huge depth of knowledge and information – thanks Peter!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT Dr Colin Ryall
On 22 February 2018
Dr Colin Ryall
came to explain the complex world of invasive species:
Introduced Birds and Other Species: Increased Biodiversity
or
a Conservation Nightmare?
Defining invasive alien species (IAS):
- Introduced by man
- New location
- Self-sustaining (i.e. not an individual like the occasional albatross off the British coast).
British examples of IAS:
- Elm, snowdrop, hare, rabbit, fallow deer, nettles.
Some consequences of IAS:
Decreased biodiversity, the extermination of endemic species.
Spread by human activity.
Homogenisation.
IAS are second most serious cause of loss of biodiversity. [the first is habitat destruction] Control needs international treaties
Invasive insects
Commercial:
Oak processionary moth—harlequin ladybird—rosemary beetle—Asian long-horn beetle—spruce bark beetle.
Household:
American cockroach—clothes moths—grain weevil
Familiar hybridisation examples:
White-headed and ruddy ducks
Red and Sika deer
Native and Spanish bluebell
Costs to UK of some IAS
Plants: £483 million
Plant-born pathogens: £403 million
Mammals: £402 million
Insects: £255 million
Birds: £6 million
Countries affected catastrophically:
Hawaii—Galapagos—New Zealand.
As islands, the native species are limited and have been isolated so it seems easier for alien species to take over. However, developing countries in Africa and Asia are also affected, particularly by IAS from South America.
 |
| From this picture of ducks feeding on azolla, it can be seen just how easily it’s transported elsewhere. However, the plant can form a dense carpet which may block oxygen and sunlight reaching aquatic plants, fish, and other aquatic wildlife. Azolla will not affect water quality, however in extreme events when a large amount of Azolla dies rapidly and sinks to the bottom, excessive nutrients are added to the water body, and water quality can be affected. |
Having given these examples, it became easy to appreciate these typical effects of an IAS:
- Rapid increase in numbers
- Omnivorous
- Degraded ecosystems more easily invaded
- Pristine ecosystems ‘safer’
- Since any IAS lacks predators in the new habitat, less susceptible to disease
- Climate change may be exacerbating the problem.
What can be done?
This is THE question to which there seems to be no totally satisfactory answer.
For more information, see:
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/invasivealien/index_en.htm
INDOOR MEETING REPORT David Kjaer
21 March 2018
David Kjaer came to our rescue by stepping in at the last minute to cover for a speaker who fell ill. We are most grateful to him. His topic was near to all our hearts:
The Wildlife of Wiltshire
With a dazzling set of photographs, David covered so much wildlife: birds - insects - animals - reptiles, that your editor has found it difficult to summarise, but basing her attempt on Wiltshire habitats, here goes:
Langford Lakes
- The new year here begins with our three species of newt laying eggs.
- Dragonfly larvae leave their overwintering quarters in moss that edges ponds to crawl into the water.
- Reed warbler numbers have declined dramatically…. ...
- … … but are compensated by the increase in Cettis.
- The mature dragonflies top the hobby menu as these wonderful birds can eat small items on the wing.
- Firecrests, rare in the UK, have, however, been here for 25 years.
- Crossbill eruptions can number 300.
- The decline of nightjars has been arrested, because trees and undergrowth have been allowed to regrow and this provides a much better habitat.
- Although the trimmed edges of the lake are no good for waders, David predicted that ospreys will nest sometime soon.
- Tiny great crested grebes can be seen clinging to the backs of parents - even submerging as their parents dive for food.
 |
| Strip Lynchets, Wilshire Downs |
- Dotterel ‘trips’ can be seen most years.
- Stone curlews are thriving [snippet: the changeover of
- Great bustard numbers are expanding.
- Corn buntings and yellowhammers still present in good numbers.
- Look in dry areas for adders and in long, damp grassy areas for grass snakes. Slow worms survive here, too.
- Wiltshire very good for brown hares: boxing tends not to be a male-face-off but an interaction between male and female.
Negative footnotes
- Nightingales are declining.
- Redstart is now scarce.
- Whinchat and cuckoo are declining, as they are globally.
 |
| At a quick glance, could this be eggs? NO, they are dormousehaving a daytime nap |
The Wiltshire Downs are among the best places in the UK for butterflies and moths. David showed us some excellent pictures, which would help in identification.
 |
| Despite having a gorgeous blue upper-wing, one of the best ways of identifying an Adonis blue is to look at the underwing |
Some moth trap hints:
- Purple emperors are attracted to banana skins.
- Don’t put out moth traps two nights in succession, because as moths can’t feed in the traps, they’ll starve.
- Don’t place the trap where the rising sun will catch them.
- The best month is June.
Remember the ugly duckling song?
It applies here too: often the most beautiful butterflies have the most unattractive caterpillars!
INDOOR MEETING REPORT John Geeson
Once again, Bath RSPB was grateful to a lecturer John Geeson for coming to our rescue at short notice as our advertised speaker was indisposed. He spoke to us about:
The Pantenal: Jaguars and Much More
John started by explaining why the Pantenal is such a good wildlife habitat: forest has been cleared for agriculture so that visibility is much better than in the usual Brazilian rainforests: also cattle don’t thrive on the poor soil and farmers are not adverse to being paid for protecting wildlife like jaguars and handing over tracts of land for reserves. David Attenborough agrees: he described the long road leading into the Pantenal as ’one of the best wildlife roads in the world’
 |
| A plastic jabiru phone box - but John hastened to add this was a rarity |
Driving along this road gives a great foretaste of the rich birdlife to be found. The ponds are full of easily seen waders, such as roseate spoonbill, snowy egret, various herons, sunbittern, tiger heron, wood stork, the four ibises and, of course, the amazing jabiru stork.
‘Real’ jabirus can be seen nesting along the route - accompanied by their symbiotic monk parakeets. Also, rheas, caracaras, hawks, curassows and screamers (with their silly feet) abound.
Once in the Pantenal, John stayed in lodges and in this floating hotel that was moored in the Cuiaba River: venues giving unrivalled opportunities for wildlife watching. Without doubt the most beautiful Pantanal bird is the agami heron:-
 |
| Agami Heron |
Then, there’s the amazing southern grebe, the male of which has wing pouches to carry the young. With birds like this, it’s hard to understand why Brazil chose a thrush as its national bird?
 |
| Chestnut-breasted Thrush |
|
| A great opportunity to compare bills: hyacinth macaw, toco toucan (of Guinness fame), yellow-billed tern and black skimmer |
Most non-birders go, of course, to see jaguars - and how right they are, as jaguars are fabulous and very easily seen in this habitat.
This is because the fast-flowing river carves out high banks: perfect as a vantage point for jaguars to hunt cayman and fish. (Amazingly enough, some tour operators offer their customers a free, repeat tour if they don’t see a jaguar!)
Once there, however, it is impossible to ignore all the other animals: giant river otters, capybaras, howlers monkeys, coati, racoons, ocelots and, of course, the amazing giant anteater.
Pantenal—the place to go for birds and JAGUARS
Forthcoming events
Outdoor meetings
- Please note that booking is essential for trips by coach or with limited numbers.
- Contact the leader or obtain booking forms at indoor meetings.
- Note that cheques for coach trips will not be cashed until after the event.
- For coach trips: please check your booking form for pickup locations and times; returning c18.00.
Thank you
Cancellations
If you need to cancel at short notice, PLEASE let the leader know, even if it is on the morning itself. The Committee is aware that on occasion last year, leaders could have filled those places from their waiting list. Empty coach seats are a cost!
Friday 14 September 2018 - Slimbridge Safari
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575
Cars: Meet in Slimbridge car park
Time: 09.00 for 09.30 start of a 2 hour guided trailer tour
Limited to 20 passengers (already fully booked) but check with Leader for possible cancellations.
Lunch and afternoon at the Slimbridge Reserve
Target birds:
overwintering ducks, geese, winter migrants and woodland birds
Thursday 18 October 2018 - Marshfield, Shire Valley
Leader: Chris Woods 07730 783843
Cars: Tormarton Road near Shirehill Farm; limited parking available
Time: 10.00 -13.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155 GR 783 767 or GR 785 770
No booking required
Target birds:
yellowhammer, farmland birds and passage migrants
Wednesday 21 November 2018 - Cotswold Water Park
Leaders: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575 and Kim Milsom (CWP Warden)
Cars: Meet at the CWP Gateway Centre
Time: 10.00 all day
Map: OS Landranger 1163 Explorer 169, GR072 971 Postcode: GL7 5TL
No booking required but inform Leader
Target birds:
woodland birds, waterfowl and winter migrants
Tuesday 11 December 2018
Poole Harbour and Wareham Channel (Private Charter) Boat Cruise
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575 and Paul Morton (Birds of Poole Harbour Guide)
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 07.45 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
The boat leaves the Brownsea Island ferry departure point at 10.00 for a 21⁄2 hour harbour trip
Lunch and afternoon at nearby Arne RSPB reserve
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
waterfowl, winter migrants and raptors
Saturday 12 January 2019 - Ham Wall
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Cars: Meet at RSPB park at Ashcott Corner
Time: 10.00, until dusk at c17.00
Map: OS Landranger 182, Explorer141, GR 449 397
No booking required
Target birds:
wildfowl, herons, birds of prey, starling murmuration
Sunday 24 February 2019 - Prior Park City Walk
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Cars: Meet by the Beazer Maze near Pulteney Weir riverside path
Time: 09.30 - 13.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 754 649
No booking required
Target birds:
peregrine, kingfisher, raven, birdsong
Thursday 14 March 2019 - Lansdown Battlefields
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Car or bus: Meet at Lansdown Park and Ride car park
Time: 10.00 - 14.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 731 682
No booking required
Target birds:
farmland birds, wheatear and red kite
Saturday 27 April 2019 - Portland Bill
Leaders: Bryan Cook 07910 764922 and Tony Cook 07775 525236
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 08.00 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
seabirds, guillemot, razorbill, fulmar and summer migrants
Saturday 18 May 2019 - Slimbridge, Frampton on Severn & Highnam Woods RSPB Reserve
Leader: Robert Hargreaves 07871 595394 and RSPB guide
Cars, Times and Maps
> 10.30 - 14.30
Meet at Slimbridge car park for morning walk and breeding waders
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 723 047
> 15.00 - 18.00
Meet at Frampton on Severn, a few miles up the A38 close to the car park at the end of the green on the road to the sailing club
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 747 075
> 19.00 to late evening RSPB guide 19.00 - 20.30
Meet at Highnam Woods Nature Reserve car park on the A40 west of Gloucester, about a mile past the A48 roundabout
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 179, GR 779 190
No booking required but please bring at about £3 to pay the RSPB guide.
Target birds:
waders, warblers, summer migrants, nightingales at Highnam Woods
Saturday 15 June 2019 - Titchfield Haven
Leader: Jean Melksham: 07712 887457
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 08.00 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
passage migrants, waders, bearded reedling, bittern
Saturday 6 July 2019 - Avebury, Fyfield Down
Leader: Terry Doman: 07895 723563
Cars: in NT Avebury car park off the A4, (free for NT members)
Time: 09.30: all day
Map: OS Explorer 157, GR 099 695, Post code SN8 1RD
No booking required
Target birds:
hirundines, yellow wagtail, stonechat, raptors
Forthcoming events
Indoor meetings
Wednesday 19 September 2018
Prof Michael Danson
Antarctica: my journey to the Deep South
If you don’t know what Extremophile Research involves then come to hear Michael talk about his international collaboration with scientists in the coldest place on earth
Wednesday 17 October 2018
David Kjaer
Sandgrouse and Lammergeiers: an Iberian Adventure
David is one of our favourite speakers, so we look forward enormously to hearing what he has to say about his love of sandgrouse and the awe inspired by lammergeiers
Wednesday 21 November 2018
Stephen Moss
Birds Britannia: what did birds ever do for us?
We Brits are renown for our love of birds - they have featured in our popular culture forever. Why? Stephen has worked in the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol; has been involved with Spring Watch and The Big Cat Diary and has written many books.
He could not be better qualified to answer the question
Wednesday 12 December 2018
AGM
followed by
The Isles of Scilly in October
a report from the two Lindas and the two Toms on their Autumn Escapade
Wednesday 16 January 2019
Andy Warren
São Tomé and Príncipe: Endemic Birds in the Gulf of Guinea
Having never been connected to Africa, both these areas are truly oceanic with the consequence that they have a high level of endemism. Thus conserving these areas is high on the priority list of scientists
Wednesday 20 March 2019
Dr Daniel Field
Birdwatching in the 4th Dimension:
How the Fossil Record Reveals the Origin of Flight, Feathers and the Birds Themselves
Bearing in mind the recent exciting discoveries of fossil birds in China, Daniel’s subject could hardly be more appropriate
Wednesday 20 February 2019
Marcus Ward
Wild New Forest
He has studied intensively the woodland specialists such as firecrest, hawfinch, lesser spotted woodpecker and is a co-founder of the survey organisation called: Wild New Forest, so he is the ideal person to tell us more about this wonderful area
Wednesday 17 April 2019
John Martin
- Please note that booking is essential for trips by coach or with limited numbers.
- Contact the leader or obtain booking forms at indoor meetings.
- Note that cheques for coach trips will not be cashed until after the event.
- For coach trips: please check your booking form for pickup locations and times; returning c18.00.
Thank you
Cancellations
If you need to cancel at short notice, PLEASE let the leader know, even if it is on the morning itself. The Committee is aware that on occasion last year, leaders could have filled those places from their waiting list. Empty coach seats are a cost!
Friday 14 September 2018 - Slimbridge Safari
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575
Cars: Meet in Slimbridge car park
Time: 09.00 for 09.30 start of a 2 hour guided trailer tour
Limited to 20 passengers (already fully booked) but check with Leader for possible cancellations.
Lunch and afternoon at the Slimbridge Reserve
Target birds:
overwintering ducks, geese, winter migrants and woodland birds
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575
Cars: Meet in Slimbridge car park
Time: 09.00 for 09.30 start of a 2 hour guided trailer tour
Limited to 20 passengers (already fully booked) but check with Leader for possible cancellations.
Lunch and afternoon at the Slimbridge Reserve
Target birds:
overwintering ducks, geese, winter migrants and woodland birds
Thursday 18 October 2018 - Marshfield, Shire Valley
Leader: Chris Woods 07730 783843
Cars: Tormarton Road near Shirehill Farm; limited parking available
Time: 10.00 -13.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155 GR 783 767 or GR 785 770
No booking required
Target birds:
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155 GR 783 767 or GR 785 770
No booking required
Target birds:
yellowhammer, farmland birds and passage migrants
Wednesday 21 November 2018 - Cotswold Water Park
Leaders: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575 and Kim Milsom (CWP Warden)
Cars: Meet at the CWP Gateway Centre
Time: 10.00 all day
Map: OS Landranger 1163 Explorer 169, GR072 971 Postcode: GL7 5TL
No booking required but inform Leader
Target birds:
No booking required but inform Leader
Target birds:
woodland birds, waterfowl and winter migrants
Tuesday 11 December 2018
Poole Harbour and Wareham Channel (Private Charter) Boat Cruise
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575 and Paul Morton (Birds of Poole Harbour Guide)
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Poole Harbour and Wareham Channel (Private Charter) Boat Cruise
Leader: Tom Pinckheard: 07444 699575 and Paul Morton (Birds of Poole Harbour Guide)
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 07.45 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
The boat leaves the Brownsea Island ferry departure point at 10.00 for a 21⁄2 hour harbour trip
Lunch and afternoon at nearby Arne RSPB reserve
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
waterfowl, winter migrants and raptors
The boat leaves the Brownsea Island ferry departure point at 10.00 for a 21⁄2 hour harbour trip
Lunch and afternoon at nearby Arne RSPB reserve
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
waterfowl, winter migrants and raptors
Saturday 12 January 2019 - Ham Wall
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Cars: Meet at RSPB park at Ashcott Corner
Time: 10.00, until dusk at c17.00
Map: OS Landranger 182, Explorer141, GR 449 397
No booking required
Target birds:
wildfowl, herons, birds of prey, starling murmuration
Map: OS Landranger 182, Explorer141, GR 449 397
No booking required
Target birds:
wildfowl, herons, birds of prey, starling murmuration
Sunday 24 February 2019 - Prior Park City Walk
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Cars: Meet by the Beazer Maze near Pulteney Weir riverside path
Time: 09.30 - 13.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 754 649
No booking required
Target birds:
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 754 649
No booking required
Target birds:
peregrine, kingfisher, raven, birdsong
Thursday 14 March 2019 - Lansdown Battlefields
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Car or bus: Meet at Lansdown Park and Ride car park
Time: 10.00 - 14.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 731 682
No booking required
Target birds:
farmland birds, wheatear and red kite
Leader: Lucy Delve: 07895 191727
Car or bus: Meet at Lansdown Park and Ride car park
Time: 10.00 - 14.00
Map: OS Landranger 172 Explorer 155, GR 731 682
No booking required
Target birds:
farmland birds, wheatear and red kite
Saturday 27 April 2019 - Portland Bill
Leaders: Bryan Cook 07910 764922 and Tony Cook 07775 525236
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 08.00 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
seabirds, guillemot, razorbill, fulmar and summer migrants
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 08.00 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
seabirds, guillemot, razorbill, fulmar and summer migrants
Saturday 18 May 2019 - Slimbridge, Frampton on Severn & Highnam Woods RSPB Reserve
Leader: Robert Hargreaves 07871 595394 and RSPB guide
Cars, Times and Maps
> 10.30 - 14.30
Meet at Slimbridge car park for morning walk and breeding waders
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 723 047
> 15.00 - 18.00
Meet at Frampton on Severn, a few miles up the A38 close to the car park at the end of the green on the road to the sailing club
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 747 075
> 19.00 to late evening RSPB guide 19.00 - 20.30
Meet at Highnam Woods Nature Reserve car park on the A40 west of Gloucester, about a mile past the A48 roundabout
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 179, GR 779 190
No booking required but please bring at about £3 to pay the RSPB guide.
Target birds:
waders, warblers, summer migrants, nightingales at Highnam Woods
Leader: Robert Hargreaves 07871 595394 and RSPB guide
Cars, Times and Maps
> 10.30 - 14.30
Meet at Slimbridge car park for morning walk and breeding waders
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 723 047
> 15.00 - 18.00
Meet at Frampton on Severn, a few miles up the A38 close to the car park at the end of the green on the road to the sailing club
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 0L14, GR 747 075
> 19.00 to late evening RSPB guide 19.00 - 20.30
Meet at Highnam Woods Nature Reserve car park on the A40 west of Gloucester, about a mile past the A48 roundabout
OS Landranger 162, Explorer 179, GR 779 190
No booking required but please bring at about £3 to pay the RSPB guide.
Target birds:
waders, warblers, summer migrants, nightingales at Highnam Woods
Saturday 15 June 2019 - Titchfield Haven
Leader: Jean Melksham: 07712 887457
Coach: Joint RSPB and BathNats trip
Time: 08.00 Riverside, Avon Street, returning c18.00
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Check your booking form for pick-up locations and times
Booking essential by coach booking form and prepayment
Target birds:
passage migrants, waders, bearded reedling, bittern
Saturday 6 July 2019 - Avebury, Fyfield Down
Leader: Terry Doman: 07895 723563
Cars: in NT Avebury car park off the A4, (free for NT members)
Time: 09.30: all day
Map: OS Explorer 157, GR 099 695, Post code SN8 1RD
No booking required
Target birds:
hirundines, yellow wagtail, stonechat, raptors
Forthcoming events
Map: OS Explorer 157, GR 099 695, Post code SN8 1RD
No booking required
Target birds:
hirundines, yellow wagtail, stonechat, raptors
Forthcoming events
Indoor meetings
Wednesday 19 September 2018
Prof Michael Danson
Antarctica: my journey to the Deep South
If you don’t know what Extremophile Research involves then come to hear Michael talk about his international collaboration with scientists in the coldest place on earth
Wednesday 17 October 2018
David Kjaer
David is one of our favourite speakers, so we look forward enormously to hearing what he has to say about his love of sandgrouse and the awe inspired by lammergeiers
David Kjaer
Sandgrouse and Lammergeiers: an Iberian Adventure
David is one of our favourite speakers, so we look forward enormously to hearing what he has to say about his love of sandgrouse and the awe inspired by lammergeiers
Wednesday 21 November 2018
Stephen Moss
Birds Britannia: what did birds ever do for us?
We Brits are renown for our love of birds - they have featured in our popular culture forever. Why? Stephen has worked in the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol; has been involved with Spring Watch and The Big Cat Diary and has written many books.
He could not be better qualified to answer the question
Wednesday 12 December 2018
AGM
followed by
a report from the two Lindas and the two Toms on their Autumn Escapade
AGM
followed by
The Isles of Scilly in October
Wednesday 16 January 2019
Andy Warren
São Tomé and Príncipe: Endemic Birds in the Gulf of Guinea
Having never been connected to Africa, both these areas are truly oceanic with the consequence that they have a high level of endemism. Thus conserving these areas is high on the priority list of scientists
Wednesday 20 March 2019
Dr Daniel Field
Bearing in mind the recent exciting discoveries of fossil birds in China, Daniel’s subject could hardly be more appropriate
Dr Daniel Field
Birdwatching in the 4th Dimension:
How the Fossil Record Reveals the Origin of Flight, Feathers and the Birds Themselves
Wednesday 20 February 2019
Marcus Ward
He has studied intensively the woodland specialists such as firecrest, hawfinch, lesser spotted woodpecker and is a co-founder of the survey organisation called: Wild New Forest, so he is the ideal person to tell us more about this wonderful area
Marcus Ward
Wild New Forest
He has studied intensively the woodland specialists such as firecrest, hawfinch, lesser spotted woodpecker and is a co-founder of the survey organisation called: Wild New Forest, so he is the ideal person to tell us more about this wonderful area
Wednesday 17 April 2019
John Martin
Birds Of Kazakstan
plus an Overview of what the Avon Bird Recorder Does
Birds Of Kazakstan
plus an Overview of what the Avon Bird Recorder Does
John works for Natural England as a Vascular Plant specialist and has very wide natural history interests: from recording local birds, moths and dragonflies to the immense diversity of wildlife to be found in the fifth largest country in the world.
Come to hear John talk about his eclectic experiences
John works for Natural England as a Vascular Plant specialist and has very wide natural history interests: from recording local birds, moths and dragonflies to the immense diversity of wildlife to be found in the fifth largest country in the world.
Come to hear John talk about his eclectic experiences
Bath RSPB Local Group Committee
Group Leader: David Robertson
Events and Volunteers: Lin Perry
Field Trips: Tom Pinckheard
Indoor Meetings: Linda Adams
Membership Secretary: Jean Melksham jeanmelksham@blueyonder.co.uk
Minutes Secretary: Joy Franklin
Newsletter Editor: Val Mead
Publicity: John Yates
Treasurer: Robert Hargreaves
Website Manager: Helen Daniels
Committee Member: Alan Barrett
Committee Member: Peter Basterfield
The RSPB is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654