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Systematic list of birds recorded
​in the Clyde area in 2008

Download file here
Order and  nomenclature follows BOU/IOC v10.2 (2021)

Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus

None reported in 2008.

 

Black Grouse Lyrurus tetrix

Reports included a ♂ Dumbrock Muir 5 Jan (AT), a ♂ and a ♀ on 16 Feb (CJMcI), 1 ♂ on 25 Nov (ECD), 2 (1 ♂) on 28 Nov (IF), 11 ♂♂ at the Stockie Muir lek at 0900 hrs on 7 Jan, 15 (14 ♂♂) there at 0930 hrs on 14 Jan (per JJM), 10 ♂♂ on 22 Jan (GJB), 6 on 28 Jan, 8 on 30 Jan, 9 on 5 Feb, 10 on 12 Feb, 9 on 13 Feb, 8 on 15 Feb (DKe), 10 ♂♂ on 17 Feb (JM), 8 on 18 Feb, 9 on 19 Feb, 10 on 27 Feb, 8 on 28 Feb, 10 on 3 Mar (DKe), 11 ♂♂ on 9 Mar (SH), 8 on 11 Mar (DKe), 10 ♂♂ on 14 Mar (IF), 8 on 26 Mar, 6 on 3 Apr (DKe), 11 (8 ♂♂) on 13 Apr (JM), 6 on 16 Apr (DKe), 6 ♂♂ on 21 Apr (AKMcN), 7 on 1 May (DKe), 9 ♂♂ and 1 ♀ at 0530 hrs on 2 May (YB), 4 ♂♂ on 4 May (ECD), 8 ♂♂ on 22 May (DO'B), 10 ♂♂ on 31 Aug (IF), 8 ♂♂ in mid afternoon 12 Sep (SMcQ), 8 ♂♂ on 15 Sep (IF), 9 on 25 Sep, 5 on 1 Oct (DKe), 11 ♂♂ on 6 Oct (per IPG), 5 ♂♂ on 12 Oct (AKMcN), 11 on 27 Oct (DKe), 10 ♂♂ on 30 Oct (AKMcN), 9 on 3 Nov (DKe), 9 ♂♂ on 6 Nov (AKMcN), 10 on 12 Nov, 8 on 13 Nov (DKe), 10 ♂♂ on 17 Nov (IF), 10 ♂♂ on 26 Nov (JGS), 11 ♂♂ on 6 Dec (JJS,CJMcI), 15 ♂♂ on 8 Dec (IF), 10 on 9 Dec (DKe), 8 ♂♂ on 15 Dec, 14 ♂♂ on 26 Dec (IF), 13 ♂♂ on 27 Dec (JJS), 7 ♂♂ at 1330 hrs on 30 Dec (TPD), 2 Loch Arklet 14 Jan, 7 on 10 Mar, 15 on 9 Apr (ABur), 31 on 8 May (DJC), 11 on 11 May (PA), 20 ♂♂ on 10 Dec (DJC), 5 ♀♀ feeding on birch trees at the Sinclair St end of the Helensburgh upper path on 16 Jan (HS) and 22 Jan (AMcI), 2 ♂♂ Lang Craigs 6 Feb (ECD), a ♂ at Muirhouse Muir on 3 Feb (AKMcN) and 1 Mar (ECD), 7 ♂♂ Fintry (NS601842) 9 Feb (RAB), 7 ♂♂ near west end of the old road in Glen Fruin 15 Mar (JC), 10 ♂♂ on 18 May (MMcG), 4 Tom Mor 17 Mar (ABur), 4 ♂♂ Inversnaid Reserve 16 Apr, 4 ♂♂ on 10 Dec (RSPB), 3 ♂♂ at lek near Daer Resr (NS9711) 23 Apr, 7 (1 ♀) close by at NS9710 on 23 Apr, 6 ♂♂ there on 24 May (JBB), 4 ♂♂ Catythirsty Well 4 May (ECD), 2 ♂♂ Ben Lomond 7 May (ECD), 4 Garrison 8 May (DJC), a ♂ Shantron Muir, Glen Fruin 15 May (ANi), a ♂ Damhead 30 May (JND), a ♀ Misty Law 14 Oct (CMRS), and 4 at The Whangie on 16 Nov (RGRi).

 

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus

Winter-spring reports included 3 Loch Arklet 10 Jan (ABur), 3 Queenside Hill 20 Jan (CMRS), 12 on moor beside Helensburgh upper path 22 Jan (AMcI), 1 Queenside Muir 2 Feb (CMRS), 6 Dumgoyne 9 Feb (GJC), 2 ♂♂ Queenside Loch 10 Feb, a pair there on 19 Mar (CMRS), 4 Craig Royston 11 Feb (ABur), 2 Misty Law 13 Feb (ECD), a pair Lang Craigs 25 Mar (ECD), and 1 at Muirshiel Country Park on 2 Apr (CMRS).

Breeding season reports included very low numbers on West Renfrew Heights, continuing the downward trend since 2001 (IPG), 3 Stake Hill, Leadhills 3 May (ECD), 3 Bleak Law 3 May with a family party of nine there on 28 June (DT), 4 Lowther Hill 3 May (JTT), a ♂ calling on Muirhouse Muir 17 May (AKMcN), and 1 at Carron Valley Forest on 10 June (GJB).

Autumn-winter reports were of a ♀ Queenside Loch 27 Aug, 3 Misty Law 8 Sep, 14 on 14 Oct, 3 on 14 Dec, 1 Raith Burn 2 Sep, 2 Queenside Muir 6 Oct, 2 Cample Burn 14 Dec (CMRS, ECD).

 

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa

Surprisingly few reports: 1 Endrickvale 2 Apr (DAB), 5 Daer Resr 23 Apr (JBB), 4 Leadhills 12 June (SRy), 1 at Boghead, Lochwinnoch 30 Sep (MMcG), and 2 at Sergeantlaw, Paisley on 16 Oct (RK).

 

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix

Increasingly rare in the Clyde area (ed.). Winter-spring reports were of 3 at East Millichen Farm on 3 Feb (JC), a pair at Yonderton on 16 Feb (WB), a pair at the Old Schoolhouse, Candrens on 16 Feb and 16 May (GTW), and 2 at Meiklehill Farm on 16 Mar (FJC).

No breeding record received in 2008 (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports were of 7 by the Old Schoolhouse, Candrens on 29 Oct, 3 at Town of Inchinnan Farm on 30 Oct (GTW), and 5 at Candrens Farm on 18 Nov (ZB).

 

Quail Coturnix coturnix

Only two reports in 2008: a calling ♂ at Kittymuir near Larkhall on 26 May (SJ), and a calling ♂ in cereal fields at Longhaugh Point on 11 July (AJR).

 

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus

Released for shooting in large numbers

Reports included 6 territories Merryton/Carbarns (AIE), 5 ♂♂ calling Ballochruin Pool 5 Apr, 4 ♂♂ calling Craigallian 6 Apr, 3 ♂♂ calling Endrick Mouth 12 Apr, 2 ♂♂ calling Carron Valley Resr 13 Apr, 1 ♂ calling Loch Ardinning 14 Apr, 3 ♂♂ calling Muirhouse Muir 22 Apr, b/1 on 21 July, 1 calling Allander Toll 10 June, 1 calling Allander Water/Kelvin confluence 10 June (AKMcN), a ♀ b/2 Muirshiel Country Park 26 June (CMRS), and a ♀ b/1 there on 30 Sep (MMcG).

 

Brent Goose Branta bernicla

Unusual inland reports were of one at South Medwin Pools on 14 Oct (JSW,VW), and one feeding on stubble fields at Auchans Farm with large numbers of other geese 20-24 Nov (GTW,JJS et al).

 

Canada Goose Branta canadensis

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total4244342991451113235824882424681241649
Sites recorded 40111821211510191110121210
Barcraigs Reservoir--16241514816141263031015490
Endrick Mouth2921771121414131110-4208624
Clyde estuary380001001756000
Hillend Reservoir03441271608900008
Harelaw Dam-51431718-3600000
Balgray Reservoir22367600446004716
Black Cart Water000000813123002
Merryton/Carbarns270224202510321243

Other winter-spring reports included 90 in a field at Castle Semple on 3 Jan (IPG), 38 Newshot Island 6 Jan (ACMB), 37 Balgray Resr 13 Jan (JJS), 39 on 16 Jan (SAW), 57 on 9 Feb (JCh), 134 at Rowbank/Barcraigs Resr 16 Jan, 94 on 11 Feb, 68 Milton Island 20 Jan (IPG), ca 250 beside Black Cart Water at Howwood on 27 Jan (FH), 114 Linwood Moss 27 Jan (DSF), 33 Carbarns Pool 27 Jan (AIE), 90 Castle Semple Loch 27 Jan (RSPB), 63 at Temple, Howwood 31 Jan (ECD), 80 at Cornalees Bridge 17 Feb (MMcG), 52 Duck Bay, Loch Lomond 18 Feb (AKMcN), 33 at Gryfe No.2 Resr 21 Feb (IPG), 87 Endrick Mouth 25 Feb (JBB), 42 in field on east side of road near Windyhill (NS4056) on 28 Feb (IPG), 80 Shielhill Farm 14 Mar (MMcG), and 46 at Reivoch Marsh on 20 Mar (MMcG).

Breeding season reports included a pair b/7 Heritage Park, East Kilbride, two young killed by male Mute Swan, the rest removed to Hessilhead (DWM), a pair b/3 Roughrigg Resr (FF), a pair with 4 young Glengavel Reservoir (RJH), a pair with nest, the ♀ incubating, Kilmacolm High Dam 13 Apr (JCro), 3 prs Daff Resr 3 May, 2 prs on 10 May, 10 prs on Loch Thom island 10 May (IPG), 64 incl 18 juvs and b/3, b/4 on 27 June (MMcG), a pair Blackwater Farm Pool 10 May (IPG), 9 prs b/9, b/8, b/6, b/6, b/4, b/4, b/3, b/1 Ring Point, Endrick Mouth 10 May (AKMcN), 30 ads with 40 young on 18 May (ECD), 2 prs b/3,b/5 Sallochy 12 May (MMcG), 2 prs Bennan Loch 15 May, 9 prs with 3xb/5, b/3 and b/2 at Harelaw Dam 12 May (JSW,VW), 19 at Barcraigs/Rowbank Resrs, including pair b/5 and pair b/4 recently hatched young 12 May, no broods seen 25 May, 6 prs with full-grown broods of 8, 8, 5, 5, 5 and 3 on 21 June, a pair b/14 North Rotten Burn at Loch Thom 8 June, still b/14 and fully-grown by 12 July (IPG), 2 prs with b/2 and b/3 at Twechar Marsh on 4 June (ADW), and a pair b/1 Walton Dam 27 July (IAM). Summary: an estimated 39 confirmed/probable breeding pairs reported, and a minimum of 160 young reared in 2007 (ed.).

Moult flocks included 63 Ring Point, Endrick Mouth 25 May (AKMcN), 110 on 8 June (DHMcE), 130 on 15 July (ECD), 200 on 3 Aug (DHMcE), 21 at Gryfe No.1 Resr 14 June-2 July, 93 ads at Rowbank/Barcraigs Resrs 21 June, at least 55 full-grown birds at Barcraigs on 28 June, total 227 on 10 July, 161 on 23 July, 113 at Rowbank Resr 3 Aug, 62 at Shielhill Farm 4 Aug (IPG), 91 Brother Loch 9 July, 30 Balgray Resr 25 July, 59 on 29 July (JSW,VW), and 30 at Carbarns Pool on 10 Aug (AIE). A pair was seen flying across the Firth of Clyde from the direction of Dunoon (Argyll) heading towards Inverkip on 6 July (IPG).

Post-moult and autumn-winter flocks included 159 at Milton Island on 17 Aug (JSW,VW), 100 at Meiklehill Farm, Lenzie 30 Aug (JTMcE), ca 160 on stubble Blackstone Mains 10 Sep, 15 on intertidal mudflats Langbank 12 Sep, 126 on stubble Sproulston Farm then later on Barcraigs Resr 27 Sep, 139 Knocknairshill Resr 28 Sep, 109 at Rowbank Resr 5 Oct, 303 on 28 Oct (IPG), 526 West Fulton, Houston 21 Oct, 410 at Linwood Moss 27 Oct (DSF), 27 Black Linn Resr 27 Oct (ECD), 176 Cornalees Bridge area 31 Oct (FG), 136 on 12 Dec (MMcG), 50 Aird Meadow 31 Oct (MA), 46 at Waulkmill Glen Resr 31 Oct, 51 on 4 Nov (JSW,VW), 900 on stubble Auchans Farm 20 Nov, at least 805 on 21 Nov, 820 on 22 Nov (IPG), 800 on 24 Nov (JJS), 820 on 26 Nov (DSF), 85 on grass 1 Dec (IPG), 450 on 4 Dec (GTW), 90 on 27 Dec (IPG), 50 at Shepherd's Pond, Cardross on 26 Nov (FL), a record Clyde area count of 1,015 flighting from NE to roost at Barcraigs Resr between 1610-1645 hrs on 22 Nov, at least 490 from NE and E (160 feeding earlier at Reivoch Farm) between 1615‑1650 hrs on 6 Dec (IPG), 63 Carbarns Pool 7 Dec (AIE), 40 at Midross 8 Dec (ANi), 45 Craigmarloch Marsh 21 Dec (IPG), 65 Arkleston 21 Dec (ECD), 24 over Kilmacolm towards Knapps Loch at 1615 hrs on 27 Dec (AB,RCD), and 75 Reivoch-Rashiefield 27 Dec, 136 there 30 Dec (IPG).

 

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis

Winter-spring reports involved 3 in fields across M8 from East Ferry 10 Jan (DSF), a juv associating with Canada Geese at Balgray Resr 13 Jan-8 Feb (JJS et al), 1 with Canada Geese at Howwood 27 Jan (FH), 1 with Canada Geese at Carbarns Pool 27 Jan, 13-16 May (AIE), 1 with Canada Geese in field on east side of road at Windyhill (NS4056) on 28 Feb, presumed same bird still at Rowbank Resr on 12 May, 25 May, 7 July and 23 July (IPG), 1 Drymen Bridge 23 March (AS), 3 beside Bennan Loch 15 May (JSW,VW), and 2 at Endrick Mouth on 8 June (FH).

Autumn-winter reports were of 2 Barr Loch 29 Oct (JL), 1 on stubble with Canada Geese and Greylag Geese at Auchans Farm, Linwood 20-26 Nov (GTW,IPG et al), and 1 with Canada Geese and Greylag Geese at Drymen Bridge on 10 Dec (ANi).

 

Greylag Goose Anser anser

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total937236415977718899980525925779128922254
Sites recorded 40191815181414139991710
Gadloch21004147-1609501990
Clyde estuary1243600132100152610119813
Summerston0504350120----01902-
Twechar Marsh36015515000---180160170
Hogganfield Loch26503681534634800237540
Lamington (Clyde)-2003002500000001200
Millersneuk Pond360330000000-000
Douglas Estate Ponds605040503035424550305655

Winter-spring reports included 135 over Birkmyre Park, Kilmacolm, heading in direction of Auchendores Resr roost at dusk on 7 Jan (IPG), 200 at Drymen Bridge 10 Jan (FL), 450 North Commonside 12 Jan (IPG), 900 leaving roost at Endrick Mouth 13 Jan (JBB), 300 Kilmaronock House 27 Jan (JTT), 140 at Cairniedrouth, Cardross 11 Feb, 100 on 16 Feb, 600 flying over there towards Loch Lomond on 24 Feb (FL), 352 Millichen Flood 3 Feb, 504 on 9 Feb, 350 on 11 Mar, 330 Buchley Pool 9 Feb (AKMcN), 200 Blackstoun Farm 10 Feb (IPG), 360 Newshot Island 10 Feb (ACMB), 250 on 16 Mar, 300 on 27 Mar (ECD), 100 at the Old Schoolhouse, Inkerman on 14 Feb, 50 there on 12 Mar, 46 on 19 Mar, 586 Walkinshaw Gardens area 16 Feb, 400 on 18 Feb, 200 on 24 Feb (GTW), 120 at Lochend Loch 17 Feb (CL), 350 at Northbar 28 Feb (ECD), 190 at Auchendores Resr 1 Mar (DSF), 180 Blackfaulds Farm 4 Mar (CRS), 310 Brownsfield Farm 4 Mar (GTW), 500 at Erskine STW 12 Mar (ECD), 600 Balmore Haughs 15 Mar, 200 Windyhill, Bearsden 15 Mar, 100 Glasgow Bridge, Kirkintilloch 15 Mar (DHMcE), 40 Bridgend Farm Pool 19 Mar, 150 Easter Cadder 19 Mar, 160 Twechar Marsh 19 Mar (ADW), 63 N over Merryton/ Carbarns 5 Apr (AIE), 65 NE over Barscube Hill 7 Apr (DSF), and 60 at Barr Loch 11 Apr (VF).

Breeding reports were of a pair b/2 Forrestburn Resr (FF), 2 prs Glenbuck Reservoir, but all young killed by resident male Mute Swan (RJH), 7 prs Carbeth Loch 6 Apr (AKMcN), a pair Barscube Hill 22 Apr (DSF), a pair b/4 Carbarns Pool 6-10 May (AIE), 2 prs with 5 young Knapps Loch (DSF), 2 prs b/7, b/5 Strathclyde Loch 27 May (AIE), 4 x b/4 and b/2 Loch Thom 28 May (MMcG), pair b/6 small young Kaim Dam 21 May, still with b/6 and a second failed/non-breeding pair 2 June (IPG), 17 prs b/6, b/5x4, b/4x7 b/3, b/2x4 Loch Walton 15 June (AKMcN). Other breeding season reports included 50 South Medwin Pools 3 May (JTT), 1 at Newshot Island 6 May which had been neck-collared at Blonduos, Auster-Hunabatns, Iceland in July 2000 (ECD), 12 in a field near Houstonhead Dam 24 May, 10-12 birds present Knapps Loch area throughout the summer (AB,IPG), 21 Balgray Resr 27 May (JSW,VW), and 21 at Blackwater Farm Pool 4 June (IPG).

Moult flocks were 204 Loch Walton 15 June (AKMcN), 346 Hogganfield Loch 21 June, 398 on 27 June (CRS), 105 including 18 juvs Strathclyde Country Park 28 June (IL), and 109 at Carbarns Pool on 20 July (AIE). Post-moult flocks of the feral population included 87 Milton Island 17 Aug (JSW,VW), 200 Meiklehill Farm, Lenzie 30 Aug (JTMcE), 170 in fields by the Black Cart Water opposite Wester Yonderton on 18 Sep, 200 on 19 Sep (ECD), 141 on 21 Sep, and 150 birds on mudflats off Longhaugh Point 26 Sep (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 107 NE over Carbarns Pool 11 Oct (AIE), 117 Millichen Flood 11 Oct, 190 on 16 Oct (AKMcN), 500 on 1 Nov (JC), 1,200 on stubble Auchans Farm 20 Nov (GTW), 1,300 on 21 Nov, 1,112 on 22 Nov (IPG), 600 on 24 Nov (JJS), 1000 on grass 1 Dec (IPG), 1,450 on 4 Dec (GTW), 885 on 27 Dec (IPG), 525 Auchingyle 24 Nov (IF), 44 Garscube Estate 1 Dec (TB), 420 at Endrick Mouth on 5 Dec, 500 Balmaha 5 Dec (JBB), 120 Cairniedrouth 7-12 Dec (FL), 200 Balmore Haughs 9 Dec (CRS), 300 at Candrens 23 Dec (AJR), 1,000 Gadloch 5-10 Dec (DHMcE), and 1,900 there on 27 Dec (FC).

 

Taiga Bean Goose Anser fabalis

Winter-spring counts (per BGWG,AM)

Date Location No. Date Location No.
2 Jan Garbethill 91 8 Feb Easter Fannyside47
5 Jan Fannyside Mill190 9 Feb Blackhill26
7 Jan Garbethill 28 13 FebBlackhill15
10 Jan Garbethill 64 13 FebFannyside Muir (roost) 95
10 Jan Fannyside Mill180 13 FebEast Fannyside Loch (R) 200
11 Jan Blackhill48 14 FebLuckenburn 135
11 Jan Garbethill 65 17 FebLuckenburn 117
27 Jan Fannyside Muir (roost) 134 18 FebLuckenburn 173
1 FebGarbethill 90 21 FebLuckenburn 166
1 FebFannyside Muir (roost) 80 23 FebLuckenburn 172
1 FebEast Fannyside Loch (R) 100 24 FebLuckenburn 28
3 FebLuckenburn 32 24 FebBlackhill28
4 FebBlackhill27 24 FebFannyside Muir (roost) 300
5 FebLuckenburn 15 28 FebFannyside Muir (roost) 0
6 Feb Blackhill18

The only other winter-spring report received was of 190 (with 10 Pink-footed Geese) at Luckenburn Farm on 19‑20 Feb (GCl,AJR).

Autumn observations began in mid September, but the first group of 40 Bean Geese was not seen until 8 October. Flock numbers increased during early October and by the 16th of the month 102 birds were present. Numbers continued to increase during October with a count of 186 on the 30th of the month. On 2nd November a count of 265 birds was made at Luckenburn and this total was not exceeded thereafter. Counts of 200 birds were made regularly during the month of December but by early January 2009 onwards almost half of the flock was never seen again. No report of Bean Geese was received from any other area during the study period. As in previous years Luckenburn Farm was used extensively for feeding in the early part of the winter, but thereafter the flock split up to feed in many different groups covering a wide area (AM).

Autumn-winter counts (per BGWG,AM)

Date Location No. Date Location No.
8 Oct Luckenburn 40 18 OctLuckenburn 96
8 Oct Fannyside Muir (roost) 37 19 OctLuckenburn 207
11 Oct W Fannyside Loch (roost) 44 20 OctLuckenburn 10
11 Oct Luckenburn 64 21 OctEaster Fannyside24
12 Oct Luckenburn 64 21 OctLuckenburn 56
13 Oct Luckenburn 64 22 OctHillend 10
16 Oct Fannyside Muir (roost) 102 22 OctLuckenburn 146
16 Oct Luckenburn 102 22 OctFannyside Muir (roost) 155
Date Location No. Date Location No.
24 Oct Luckenburn 13 25 Nov Blackhill81
26 Oct Easter Fannyside119 26 Nov Blackhill72
26 Oct Fannyside Muir (roost) 144 26 Nov Easter Fannyside174
27 Oct Easter Fannyside80 28 Nov Easter Fannyside164
27 Oct Blackhill147 29 Nov Easter Fannyside168
29 Oct Luckenburn 60 30 Nov Easter Fannyside180
30 Oct Easter Fannyside186 1 Dec Easter Fannyside82
31 Oct Luckenburn 118 4 Dec Easter Fannyside76
31 Oct Blackhill200 5 Dec Easter Fannyside89
31 Oct W Fannyside L (roost) 20 5 Dec Fannyside Mill170
31 Oct E Fannyside L (roost)180 5 Dec Fannyside Muir (roost) 200
1 Nov Easter Fannyside145 6 Dec Easter Fannyside40
2 Nov Luckenburn 265 7 Dec Luckenburn 154
2 Nov W Fannyside L (roost) 115 7 Dec Easter Fannyside36
2 Nov E Fannyside L (roost)150 8 Dec Garbethill 65
3 Nov Blackhill34 9 Dec Garbethill 106
3 Nov Luckenburn 47 10 Dec Garbethill 35
4 Nov Luckenburn 249 12 Dec Garbethill 11
5 Nov Fannyside Muir (roost) 265 14 Dec Easter Fannyside80
7 Nov Luckenburn 158 16 Dec Fannyside Muir (roost) 200
9 Nov Luckenburn 16 17 Dec Garbethill 104
9 Nov Easter Fannyside150 20 Dec Easter Fannyside11
9 Nov Fannyside Muir (roost) 180 20 Dec Fannyside Muir (roost) 200
12 NovLuckenburn 165 21 Dec Easter Fannyside48
14 NovEaster Fannyside165 24 Dec Garbethill 200
15 NovEaster Fannyside165 24 Dec Fannyside Muir (roost) 200
16 NovLuckenburn 127 26 Dec Blackhill11
16 NovEaster Fannyside105 27 Dec Blackhill83
17 NovEaster Fannyside160 27 Dec Easter Fannyside140
18 NovEaster Fannyside168 28 Dec Luckenburn 84
18 NovBlackhill30 28 Dec Garbethill 61
19 NovEaster Fannyside164 30 Dec Garbethill 40
21 NovEaster Fannyside170

Other autumn-winter reports were of 56 at Luckenburn Farm 11 Oct (RS), 68 on 12 Oct (per BS), 162 on 18 Oct, 207 on 19 Oct (BGWG), 33 on 21 Oct, 184 on 22 Oct, 90 on 24 Oct, 160 on 28 Oct, 77 on 3 Nov (per BS), 247 on 4 Nov (AGG), 16 Luckenburn Farm 9 Nov (TB), 77 on 7 Dec (NB), 99 east of Fannyside Mill on 25 Oct (BGWG), 4 on 31 Dec (MMcG), 170 at Blackhill Farm 9 Nov (TB), 164 Easter Fannyside 21 Nov (IF), 119 on 21 Nov (JST), 159 on 30 Nov (RS), and 150 on Fannyside Muir 25 Nov (MMcG).

 

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus

Winter-spring reports included 160 E over Merryton/Carbarns 20 Jan, 33 NE on 19 Mar, 79 NE on 24 Mar (AIE), 250 Little Carbeth, Killearn 9 Feb (RAB), 200 W over Bardowie Loch 9 Mar, 485 Millichen Flood 9 Mar (AKMcN), 500 Carlston, Torrance 2 Mar (DHMcE), 4000 Ravenstruther 4 Mar, 2000 Millmoor 4 Mar (JSW,VW), 500 Meiklehill Farm, Lenzie 15 Mar (JTMcE), 120 Aird Meadow 17 Mar (ZB), 1200 Endrick Mouth 24 Mar (IF), 60 at Blane/Endrick confluence on 1 Apr (IPG), 150 Ballochruin 13 Apr (AKMcN), 120 on 15 Apr (GJB), 50 Newshot Island 19 Apr (AJR), 130 N over Harelaw Dam 28 Apr (JVW,VW), 2 Ardmore North Bay 10 May (JBB), and 4 at Bridgend Farm Pool on 13 May (IPG). Spring passage reports included 105 N over Harelaw Dam, Neilston on 28 Apr (JSW,VW). Between 1 and 4 presumed feral birds were at Carbarns 9-16 May and again on 10 Aug (AIE), a moulting, presumed feral individual was with Greylags at Hogganfield Loch on 18-21 June (CRS), and 1 was at Strathclyde Country Park on 20 June (IL).

Autumn passage involved 8 in Ardmore North Bay 17 Sep (ECD), 9 South Medwin Pools 27 Sep (JTT), 1 at Aird Meadow 29 Sep (RSPB), 40 SE over Darleith 1 Oct (FL). Autumn-winter reports included 15,000 The Meetings 14 Oct (JSW,VW), 160 Millichen Flood 16 Oct (CRS), 770 on 1 Nov (JC), 650 Drymen 4 Nov (IF), 2 at Candrens 23 Dec (AJR), 30 Aird Meadow 24 Dec (RSPB), and 500 at Gadloch on 27 Dec (FC).

 

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris

Winter-spring reports were of 50 at Endrick Mouth on 2 Mar (DHMcE), 174 Middle Gartocharn Farm 5 Jan, 13 on 9 Mar (JTT), and 179 at Gartocharn on 21 Jan (AT).

Autumn-winter reports involved 6 at Endrick Mouth on 13 Oct (MS), 29 on 16 Oct (SNH), 48 on 2 Nov, 77 on 17 Nov (IF), 4 over Town of Inchinnan Farm 21 Oct (GTW), 2 Middle Gartocharn Farm 22 Oct (JTT), 200 there on 21 Nov (IF), 200 on 26 Nov (JGS), 205 on 29 Nov (SH), still 200 on 2 Dec (IF), 150 flying there at 0930 hrs on 27 Dec (ANi), 60 there on 28 Dec (DP), 200 on 29 Dec (IF), 20 on 30 Dec (AKMcN), 16 Crom Mhin 27 Oct (IF), 50 in field east of Wards Pond on 31 Oct (ANi), 1 with a mixed flock of Greylags and Pinkfeet at Gadloch on 1 Nov (LR), and 2 at Candrens Farm on 21 Nov (IPG).

 

Mute Swan Cygnus olor

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total709764619605521606714638726597572644
Sites recorded 96567165615852524858535755
Hogganfield Loch1121241131141211341579097117105119
Lanark Loch1251146877626510410948-4249
Richmond Park628372618147490647795113
Strathclyde Country Park43385469-711199055000
Clyde estuary293528204644849492292323
Lamington (R Clyde)-332616911958843102
Lochend Loch2315343334334054171413-
Victoria Park311613181422212282329

Breeding reports

SitePairs Young ObsSite Pairs YoungObs
Alloch Dam1 1 AMC Glenbuck Loch 2 4 RJH
Antermony Loch1 2 AMC Greenock, Great Harbour 1 4 IPG
Auchlochan Pond 1 3 RJHHamilton LP, Island Pond 1 7 SLRS
Barnbeth Pond 1 0 IPG Hamilton LP, Ross Pond 1 3 SLRS
Baron's Haugh 3 7 RSPBHarelaw Dam 1 0 JVW
Bishop Loch 1 - CRSHeritage Park, East Kilbride 1 4 DWM
Bishopton, South Crooks 1 - ADWHigh Dam/Picketlaw Resr 2 2 JVW
Black Cart Wtr, Howwood 1 1 IPG Hogganfield Loch 3 -CRS
Burntshields Pond1 5 IPG Kilcreggan 1 4 CMW
Caplaw Dam 1 4 IPG Kilmardinny Loch 2 4 NK
Coves Reservoir 1 1 JHH Kilsyth Cemetery Pond 1 4 PGC
Douglas Estate Pools 3 18 KS Knapps Loch 1 5 DSF
Douglas Water Pools 1 4 KS Kype Fishery 1 4 RJH
Erskine, Park Quay 1 6 ECD Lilly Loch 1 4 FF
F&C Canal, Auchinstarry 1 0 PGC Littleton Reservoir1 0 J&VW
F&C Canal, Blairdardie1 - SPM Loch Bowie 1 -SPM
F&C Canal, Castlecary 1 3 PGC Loch Libo 2 3 JVW
F&C Canal, Dullatur 1 - SPM Lochend Loch1 5 CL
F&C Canal, Kirkintilloch 1 0 PGC Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 1 -RSPB
F&C Canal, Lambhill1 2 PGC Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 1 1 RSPB
F&C Canal, Twechar 1 0 PGC Lochwinnoch, Castle Semple Loch1 -RSPB
F&C Canal, Wyndford 1 0 PGC Merryton/Carbarns4 2 AIE
F&C Canal, Yoker1 - SPM Millersneuk Marsh1 -ADW
Garelochhead1 5 CMWMonklands Cl, Drumpellier 1 5 CL
Garvald Quarry1 7 AMcA Newshot Island1 4 IPG
Glasgow, Alexandra Park 1 0 CRSOrchard Farm Pool1 1 CL
Glasgow, Bingham's Pond1 - SPM River Clyde, Lamington2 8 J&VW
Glasgow, Glasgow Green 1 1 CRSRosneath 1 4 CMW
Glasgow, Maxwell Park 1 1 CRSTannoch Loch1 6 AKMcN
Glasgow, Richmond Park 1 0 CRSTown Dam 1 4 JHH
Glasgow, Robroyston Park 1 0 CRSTownhead Reservoir1 4 PGC
Glasgow, Springburn Park 1 1 CRSWhite Cart Water, Paisley 1 -GTW

Breeding data in the above table, and in those for other breeding waterfowl, consist of the maximum number of apparently breeding pairs reported at each site. Figures for number of young refer to the numbers present on the date of reported observation, or the maximum of two or more reports, or the known number of young reared (in ascending order of priority). Where two independent reports of brood size differ, the later report is used. Although not a wholly accurate measure of productivity, these figures do provide some indication of annual variation in breeding success.

Mute Swan breeding summary: 78 pairs reported from 64 sites, mean brood size 2.59 young/pair (cf. average mbs of 2.85 young/pair 1987-2008). Additional notes: (i) the Burntshields pair had 5 young ca one-week old on 4 June (IPG); (ii) the Caplaw Dam brood still b/4 full-grown on 9 Sep (IPG); (iii) the Black Cart Water (Howwood) pair failed at first attempt, probably due to flooding, but was observed with a half-grown young bird on the late date of 24 Sep (IPG); (iv) the ♀ at Island Pond, Merryton unsuccessfully incubated from 2 May-5 July (AIE); (v) the Townhead Resr pair moved with cygnets to Kilsyth Curling Pond (PGC).

Other winter-spring reports included 56 Castle Semple Loch 6 Apr (RSPB).

Autumn-winter reports included 34 Merryton/Carbarns 20 Aug (AIE).

 

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total23140628264323419394313
Sites recorded 221113134432348913
Thankerton-Carstairs93173127-----0109096
Black Cart Water SPA317673000000453591
White Cart Water (Netherton)00---------60
Merryton/Carbarns290320111112823
Douglas Estate Ponds25181600000010166
Hogganfield Loch1616100000001411
Baron's Haugh0450000000000
Endrick Mouth71233100-0394

Totals from Black Cart Water SPA study area (not including Lochwinnoch): 89 on 6 Jan, 81 on 11 Jan, 84 on 21 Jan, 95 on 27 Jan, 76 on 3 Feb, 80 on 10 Feb, 75 on 21 Feb, 98 on 25 Feb, 85 on 4 Mar, 98 on 14 Mar, 99 on 21 Mar, 60 on 2 Apr, 28 on 8 Apr, 14 on 14 Apr (per SNH). The maximum winter-spring counts were of 120 on 9 Feb (including Lochwinnoch RSPB Reserve), and 120 within the SPA study area on 16 Feb (GTW).

Winter-spring reports included on the Black Cart Water floodplain: 10 Castle Semple Loch 2 Jan (CMRS), 28 Barr Loch 2 Jan, 36 on 16 Jan, 12 on 10 Feb, 24 on 15 Feb, 21 Aird Meadow 25 Jan, 22 on 9 Feb, 37 on 10 Feb, 13 on 17 Feb (RSPB), 44 Walkinshaw-Barnhill 2 Jan (ECD), 74 on stubble Candrens Farm 5 Jan (IPG), 9 by Black Cart Water there 5 Feb, total 65 Yonderton-Candrens 10 Jan, area total 53 including 47 (13 juvs in broods of 5, 3, and 5 broods of 1) at the Old Schoolhouse 17 Jan (GTW), 47 there again on 19 Jan, 57 on 27 Jan, 52 on 28 Jan (GTW), 45 on 29 Jan, 12 on 4 Feb, 29 on 5 Feb, 30 on 6 Feb, 15 on 14 Feb, 54 on 16 Feb, 32 on 18 Feb, 23 on 24 Feb, 42 on 25 Feb (GTW), 36 on 11 Mar, 8 on 27 Mar, 7 on 31 Mar, 14 on 6 Apr, 7 on 8-14 Apr (IPG), ca 50 roosted on Linwood Pool overnight 25-26 Jan, 2 there on 29 Jan (IPG), 28 at Erskine STW/Old Mains Farm 26 Jan, 27 on 2 Feb and on 5-6 Feb, 21 on 8 Feb, 14 on 27 Feb, 20 on 11 Mar, 18 on 12 Mar (ECD,FH), 3 Yonderton 26 Jan (ECD), 6 on 28 Jan (GTW), 8 on 29 Jan (IPG), 42 on 2 Feb, 10 on 4 Feb, 6 on 5 Feb, 8 on 6 Feb (GTW), 44 on 28 Feb, 30 on 12 Mar, 61 on 28 Mar, 23 on 31 Mar (ECD), 40 on 2 Apr, 9 on 6 Apr (IPG), 6 Blackstone Mains 6 Feb (GTW), 90 on 21 Mar (DHMcE), total 50 Barnsford Bridge-Yonderton 9 Feb, 34 on 24 Feb, 57 on 25 Feb, area total 76 including 60 Barnhill Farm 13 Feb, 65 there on 14 Feb, area total 120 including 66 Barnsford Bridge-Walkinshaw Gardens 16 Feb, area total 87 including 50 Walkinshaw 18 Feb, area totals 76 on 24 Feb, 99 on 25 Feb, 93 on 27 Feb, 89 including 42 Brownsfield Farm and 30 Candrens Farm 4 Mar (GTW), 11 East Fulwood 6 Apr (IPG), and 10 at Auchans Farm on 12 Apr (DSF).

Winter-spring counts in other areas included Lanark/The Meetings 137 at The Meetings 6 Feb (per JJM), 111 Covington 6 Mar, 26 at Ravenstruther on 6 Mar (JSW,VW); Carbarns/Merryton 43 on 27 Jan, 42 on 17 Feb, 43 on 11 Mar, 4 on 5 Apr (AIE); elsewhere 16 (2 imms) Hogganfield Loch 8 Jan-29 Feb, 2 imms staying until 3 Mar, one adult returned 11 Mar only (FJM,BZ et al), 9 on Island Pond, Hamilton Low Parks 19 Jan (JJS), 8 at Craigmarloch Marsh 10 Feb-9 Mar (IPG), 13 Endrick Mouth 11 Feb (ANi), 1 on 13 Apr (JBB), 5 Woodend Loch 17-18 Feb (CL), 4 Loch Libo 22 Mar (SJE), 26 N over Rowardennan 29 Mar (AS), 12 N over Colgrain 5 Apr (DHMcE), 2 on Mugdock Loch 19 Apr (GJC), and 3 (an adult with 2 imms) on the shore at Longhaugh Point on 27 Apr (IPG).

Whooper Swan Black Cart Water SPA flock: supplementary counts winter-spring

Date 5 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 26 Jan 27 Jan 2 Feb9 Feb13 Feb 16 Feb 18 Feb
Barnhill Farm - - - - - --60 - -
Barnsford Bridge - - 3- - -50- 66 50
Blackstone Mains - - - - - --- - -
Candrens Farm 74 - 47 - 57 --- 54 -
Newshot/Old Mains- - - 28 - 27 21- - -
Linwood Pool- - - 50 - --- - -
Lochwinnoch RSPB - - 36 - - -49- - -
Town of Inchinnan- - - - - --- - -
Yonderton - - 33- 42 -- - -
Un-named site(s) - 65 - - 38 --16 - 37
TOTAL74 65 89 81 95 69 12076 120 87
Date24 Feb 25 Feb 27 Feb 28 Feb 4 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 2 Apr 6 Apr 8 Apr
Barnhill Farm - - - - --- - --
Barnsford Bridge - 57 - - 42-- - --
Blackstone Mains - - - - -90 - - --
Candrens Farm - - - - 30-- - 14 -
East Fulwood- - - - --- - 11 -
Newshot/Old Mains- - - - --- - --
Linwood Pool - - - - --- - --
Town of Inchinnan- - - - --- - --
Yonderton- - - 44 --61- --
Un-named site(s)76 42 93 - 179 - 60 -28
TOTAL76 99 93 44 8999 6160 25 28

The injured bird which had been present at Merryton/Carbarns since Jan 2006 was last seen on 28 Feb (AIE), and the feral/escape at Cardross on 28 May (JBB) and 11 June (JTo). An injured bird was at Carbarns Pool on 22 June and 4 Aug (ECD), 1 Endrick Mouth 18 Aug (AKMcN), the presumed feral/escaped bird present in the vicinity of Dumbarton since 2002 was reported at Cardross 7- 9 Sep (JBB,ANi), Cardwell Bay 14 Sep (IPG), and Cowdenknowes Resr on 19 Sep (SPM).

Autumn arrival involved 2 (one resident and one migrant) Endrick Mouth 28 Sep (ANi), 5 on 6 Oct (per IPG), 4 Aird Meadow 3 Oct, (RSPB), 1 Yonderton 6 Oct (per IPG), 2 Craigmarloch Marsh 9 Oct (ADW), 12 Town of Inchinnan 10-11 Oct (GTW), 2 Carbarns Pool 10 Oct (SK), and 14 at Barr Loch on 17 Oct (RSPB).

Autumn-winter reports included Black Cart Water 12 at Town of Inchinnan Farm 10-11 Oct, 32 on 17 Oct (GTW), 69 on 19 Oct (IPG), 71 on 21 Oct (GTW), Black Cart Water floodplain totals 72 on 21 Oct, 148 on 29 Oct, 105 on 30 Oct, 118 on 31 Oct, 154 on 1 Nov, 175 on 4 Nov (GTW), max 207 on 1 Dec (IPG), 204 on 4 Dec, 97 Easter Yonderton 22-25 Oct, 114 on 27 Oct, 52 on 1 Nov, 125 on 4 Dec (GTW), 141 Easter Walkinshaw 26 Oct, 108 on Black Cart Water at Yonderton 28 Oct, 8 on 27 Dec (IPG), 102 on stubble Candrens 1 Nov, 175 on 4 Nov, 168 on 6 Nov (GTW), 120 on 7 Nov (IPG,TB), 150 on 15 Nov (TB), 151 on 16 Nov (PJB), 174 on 16 Nov (same day) (PJT), 167 on 18 Nov (ZB), 189 on 20 Nov (GTW), 205 on 22 Nov, 196 on 1 Dec (IPG), 204 on 4 Dec (GTW), 50 on 17 Dec, 34 on 18 Dec, 140 on 26 Dec, pair b/2 at Auchans Farm 21 Nov, 8 on stubble there 28 Nov, pair b/4 on stubble and pair b/3 (11 birds) on grass 1 Dec, 34 on grass 27 Dec (IPG), 7 Aird Meadow on 6 Dec, 10 on 7 Dec, 35 on 18 Dec, 26 on 19 Dec, 14 on 20 Dec, 25 on 23 Dec (RSPB), 15 Castle Semple Loch 7 Dec (ECD), 20 heading off towards Lochwinnoch at 1515 hrs on 27 Dec (IPG), 140 on stubble Netherton Farm 21 Dec, 27 on 24 Dec, 62 at 1530 hrs on 29 Dec (ECD), 7 on 27 Dec, 55 E past Howwood (from Lochwinnoch) at 0905 hrs on 26 Dec (IPG), 36 coming in to roost on Barr Loch from NE between 1545‑1625 hrs on 28 Dec (IPG); at Lanark/The Meetings 54 at The Meetings on 14 Oct, 82 Westraw Mains 12 Nov (JSW,VW): Merryton/Carbarns 14 on 26 Oct, 10 on 2 Nov, 15 on 7 Dec, 40 on 31 Dec (AIE): Other reports included 14 Twechar Marsh 15 Oct (JJM), 6 on Waulkmill Glen Resr 16 Oct (IWMcM), 15 resting on Balgray Resr, then flying off SW on 21 Oct (JSW,VW), 11 on 27 Dec (RB), 5 Hogganfield Loch 20 Oct (CJMcI), 13 on 22-31 Oct, 15 from 1-4 Nov, 12-14 during period 9-27 Nov, max count 19 on 1 Dec, 14 on 3 Dec, 9 on 4 Dec, 11-12 during period 7-28 Dec, 14 on 31 Dec (CRS,TPD et al), 4 Loch Bowie 27 Oct (ECD), 6 Endrick Mouth 31 Oct (ANi), 7 on 29 Nov (DHMcE), 8 on 27 Dec (ANi), 17 flew from Shepherd's Pond, Cardross to the Clyde 16 Nov (FL), 8 Castle Semple Loch 16 Nov (RSPB), 4 on R Clyde at Glasgow Green 10 Dec (CRS), and unusually a pair b/2 on Hippingstones Marsh, Pollok Estate 23 Dec (CRS).

Whooper Swan Black Cart Water SPA flock: supplementary counts autumn-winter

Date 22 Oct 26 Oct 27 Oct 28 Oct 29 Oct 30 Oct 31 Oct 1 Nov 4 Nov 6 Nov
Barnsford Bridge - 141- --- - ---
Candrens Farm - -- --- - 102175-
East Yonderton97-114 108-- - 52 -168
Un-named site(s)- -- -148105 118 ---
TOTAL 97141114 108148105 118 154175168
Date7 Nov 16 Nov 18 Nov20 Nov 22 Nov 1 Dec4 Dec18 Dec21 Dec26 Dec
Candrens Farm 120 174167 189205196 204 34 -140
East Yonderton- -- --- [125] ---
Lochwinnoch RSPB- 8 - --- - 35 14 55
Netherton Farm- -- --11- -140-
TOTAL120 182167 189205207 204 69 154195
 

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca

Three at Midross 8 Dec (ANi).

 

Shelduck Tadorna tadorna

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Erskine to West Ferry*459410117026037660181200
Langbank to Port Glasgow012814270000000
Dumbarton to Craigendoran126131371603623204800
Clyde Estuary total172239152359337401621851000

* including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock

Winter-spring estuary reports included 126 Ardmore North Bay 6 Jan (DO'B), 80 on 12 Jan (JDo), 121 on 10 Feb (DO'B), and 53 Cardross Bay 25 Mar (AKMcN).

Inland reports were of 1 Aird Meadow 23 Jan (RSPB), a pair Ballochruin Pool 3 Feb-5 Apr, 1 on 13 Apr, pair on 11 May (AKMcN), 3 Balgray Resr 8 Feb (JJS), a pair Bardowie Loch 11 Feb, 5 Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 16 Mar, 2 on 24 Mar, a pair on 12 Apr and 7 May, 4 Ring Point, Endrick Mouth on 24 Mar and 12 Apr (AKMcN), 7 prs on 27 Apr (DHMcE), 5 prs on 10 May, 12 on 25 May (AKMcN), 5 Colin's Isle 19 Mar (ECD), 1 Carbarns Pool 4 Apr (AIE), 2 prs Colgrain 19 Apr (DHMcE), 8 (6 ♂♂) Barscube Hill 22 Apr (DSF), and 4 E over Hogganfield Loch on 3 May (BZ).

Breeding season reports on the Clyde estuary were of 98 adults around Longhaugh Point and only 4 adults Milton Island 29 Apr, 243 Longhaugh Point-Langbank 18 May, 324 on 24 May, 424 on 3 June (IPG). No broods were present Longhaugh Point-Langbank 2 June, but a crèche of 24 equal-aged (ca one-week old) ducklings Longhaugh Point 14 June (IPG), crèches/broods of 26, 22, 27, 7 and 2 on 22 June (JMC), a crèche of 21 and brood of 9 on 1 July, and a min 34 juvs on 14 July (IPG).

Two exceptionally far inland breeding records involved: (i) a pair with b/5 small ducklings at Barcraigs Resr on 21 June, feeding on exposed mud on the west side of the large island, mainly on the Ayrshire side of the channel (IPG); the pair was still present but the brood reduced to b/2 on 25 June (AF), but no adults or ducklings could be located on 28 June (IPG); and (ii) a pair with an almost fully fledged juvenile at South Medwin Pools on 27 June, the juv without adults still present on 14 July (JSW,VW). The usual summer pre-moult migratory build-up resulted in counts of 324 Longhaugh Point-Langbank on 24 May, an earlier than usual peak of 424 on 3 June, 361 on 1 July, 311 on 6 July, down to 177 ads by 14 July (IPG). Other reports included 3 ads N past Cloch Point on 6 July, and an adult with 3 juvs still at Ardmore North Bay 29 Aug (IPG). Autumn-winter reports included first 2 back Cardross Bay 10 Sep (GTu).

 

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea

One of suspect origin was with Canada Geese at Waulkmill Glen Resr on 12 Oct (BGr), and perhaps the same bird at Loch Thom on 27 Dec (LT).

 

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata

Two reports, perhaps of the same individual: a ♂ with Mallards at a field pool by the River Kelvin just east of Balmore (NS612732) on 25 May (MC), and a ♂ with Mallards and Teal on Chapel Farm Pool, Houston 21‑24 Sep (IPG).

 

Garganey Spatula querquedula

Reports were of a ♂ on Black Cart Water at Easter Yonderton 1 May (FH), a ♂ at Baron's Haugh 6 May (LS), a ♂ at Twechar Marsh 8-13 May (JJM,IPG et al), and a ♂ at Gartloch Pools 21 May-1 June (CRS,JJM et al).

 

Shoveler Spatula clypeata

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total25112528740218212618
Sites recorded 14434832025245
Merryton/Carbarns110103000001105
Endrick Mouth01810500-1000
Hogganfield Loch0034000114001
Bridgend Farm Pool00420-00--90
Baron's Haugh940600000000
Woodend Loch000000001014-
Garnqueen Loch000100001102-
Gartloch Pool360000000000
Gadloch0000000-1016
Twechar Marsh000000---005
Douglas Estate Ponds000113010000

Winter-spring reports included 6 ♂♂ Carbarns Pool 6 Jan, 10 (7 ♂♂) on 16 Mar, 10 (4 ♂♂) on 5 Apr (AIE), 3 (2 ♂♂) Gartloch Pool 10 Jan, 6 (4 ♂♂) on 7 Feb (CRS), 1 Aird Meadow 12 Jan (RSPB), a pair Possil Loch 16 Jan (per JJM), 2 ♀♀ on 15 Feb (CRS), a pair on 13 Mar (TPD), 2 on 17 Apr (CRS), 14 Hogganfield Loch 23 Jan (MMcG), 11 on 17 Mar (CRS), a ♂ Ardmore Point 18 Feb (AKMcN), 15 Baron's Haugh 18 Feb, 3 on 19 Apr (JCM), 4 prs on 21 Apr (MMcG), 11 Hogganfield Loch 17 Mar, a pair on 7-10 Apr (CRS), 6 (4 ♂♂) Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 24 Mar, 11 (5 prs) on 12 Apr (AKMcN), 8 on 18 Apr (CJMcI), 3 Bridgend Farm Pool 7 Apr (ADW), a pair on 26 Apr (KH) and 7 May (ADW). Unusually on the estuary, a ♂ was at Ardmore Point 18-19 Feb (AKMcN,GJB), possibly the same ♂ between West Ferry and Longhaugh Point 27-29 Apr (IPG,FH), still there on 22 June (JMC) and 14 July (IPG).

Breeding season reports were of 4 prs Baron's Haugh 21 Apr (MMcG), a pair Bridgend Farm Pool 7 May (ADW), ♂ only on 13 May (IPG), a pair Merryton 9-13 May (AIE), a pair Millersneuk Marsh 7 May (ADW), 6 ♂♂ Endrick Mouth 9 May (ANi), a pair Balgray Resr 20 May (JSW,VW), and a pair at Gartloch Pools on 27 May (JJM).

Autumn-winter reports included 1Ardmore North Bay 5 Aug (JBB), 3 Carbarns Pool 10 Aug, 6 on 28 Sep, 24 on 10 Oct, 13 (11 ♂♂) on 28 Oct, 5 on 21 Dec (AIE,SK), an apparent ♀/juv West Ferry 27 Aug (IPG), a ♀ Hogganfield Loch 28 Aug, 2 ♀♀ on 5 Sep, 9 on 6 Sep, 18 on 10 Sep, 14 on 11 Sep, 4 on 28 Oct, 8 on 1 Dec (CRS), 6 on 7 Dec (ADW), 9 on 17 Dec (JJM), 4 on 27 Dec (TPD), 6 Gartloch Pool 1 Sep (CJMcI), 18 Baron's Haugh 20 Sep, 27 on 12 Oct, 21 on 15 Nov (JCM), a ♀ Aird Meadow 30 Sep (MMcG), and 20 at Twechar Marsh on 15 Oct (JJM).

 

Gadwall Mareca strepera

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing all sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total38263324341925313513442
Sites recorded 13655752233341
Baron's Haugh131210421182200000
Hamilton Low Parks199083003136242
Gartloch Pool22105133162120
Merryton/Carbarns2052400250000
Bothwell Park Farm Pond0016-00000560
Possil Loch0--4---00000
Hogganfield Loch000000006000
Monkland (Drumpellier)01111000-000
Bridgend Farm Pool00030-00--00
Lochwinnoch120000000000
Bardowie Loch-002--000000
Robroyston Park LNR000000000020
Lochend Loch10000000000-

Winter-spring reports included 40 at Island Pond, Hamilton Low Parks 19 Jan (JJS), 4 on 15 Feb (SLRS), a pair Aird Meadow 2 Jan-2 Mar (RSPB), 4 Hogganfield Loch 2 Feb (per JJM), a ♂ on 16 Apr, a pair Gartloch Pool 7 Feb (CRS), 9 on 16 Apr (WMT), 2 prs on 29 Apr (IPG), 4 on South Haugh, Hamilton Low Parks 15 Feb (AJC), a pair Lochend Loch 18 Feb, a ♂ Monklands Canal Drumpellier from Feb-May (CL), 3 on Possil Loch 12 Mar, 6 on 13 Mar (TPD), 4 on 13 Apr (TPD), a ♂ Twechar Marsh 19 Mar (ADW), a pair Burntshields Pond 25 Mar (IPG), a pair White Loch, Carnwath 30 Mar (ADW), a pair Bardowie Loch 6 Apr (AKMcN), 44 Baron's Haugh 9 Apr (WMT), 12 prs on 27 Apr (TB), a ♂ Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 12 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Newshot Island 10 May (AJR), and a ♂ at Cardross Bay end of May (AGG).

Breeding season reports were of up to 4 prs Merryton/Carbarns during Apr and May, however no successful breeding recorded (AIE), a pair Bardowie Loch 6 Apr (AKMcN), 36 Baron's Haugh 13 Apr (WMT), 3 prs on 21 Apr (MMcG), a pair Barr Loch 1 May (MA), a pair Bridgend Farm Pool 7-8 May (ADW), ♂ only on 13 May (IPG), a pair at Gartloch Pools on 7 May (ADW) and 13 May (IPG), 5 (2 prs) on 21 May (CRS), 7 ♂♂ on 27 May (JJM), 10 ads 20 July (WMT), 3 ♂♂ Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 10 May (AKMcN), 3 ♂♂ Hogganfield Loch 16 May (JJM), and a ♀ Caplaw Dam 21 June (IPG). Confirmed breeding involved reports of 3 prs with a total of 12 young Baron's Haugh (RSPB), and a ♀ with b/3 at Gartloch Pools on 20 July (WMT).

Autumn-winter reports involved a pair which flew onto Hogganfield Loch at 0715 hrs on 14 Aug, a pair there on 28 Aug, 2 prs on 5 Sep, 5 on 6 Sep, a pair on 10 Sep, 6 on 11 Sep, 7 on 18 Sep, 9 on 30 Sep, 20 on 2 Oct, 9 on 5 Oct, 14 on 10 Oct, 20 on 21 Oct, 18 on 22 Oct, 10 on 23 Oct, 23 on 24 Oct, 20 on 25 Oct, 4 on 4 Nov (CRS,JJM,TPD et al), 25 Carbarns Pool 20 Aug, 9 on 28 Sep, 23 on 10 Oct (AIE,SK), 10 Baron's Haugh 8 Sep (LMcB), 16 Gartloch Pools 10 Sep, 12 on 20 Nov (CRS), a ♂ Bardowie Loch 20 Sep (AKMcN), a pair Twechar Marsh 15 Oct (JJM).

 

Wigeon Mareca penelope

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total1744248321162962304206125414521507
Sites recorded 462227251121018192621
Clyde estuary5467565832160300138775653566
Merryton/Carbarns85337386190004411169332
Thankerton-Carstairs170134132-----01291362
Baron's Haugh257181238200000000
Endrick Mouth1961657918000-194011728
Lamington (R Clyde)-261002000003711486
Gadloch45654215000-3888120
Douglas Estate Ponds308030000000505060

Winter-spring reports included 9 at flooded Craigmarloch Marsh (unusual site) on 6 Jan, 29 there on 29 Feb, 32 on 4 Mar (IPG), 498 Carbarns Pool 27 Jan was the highest ever recorded for the site, 337 on 10 Feb, 386 on 16 Mar, 48 on 4 Apr, last 5 on 13 Apr (AIE), 145 Barr Loch 10 Feb (PBa), 50 on Black Cart Water, Barnsford Bridge-Town of Inchinnan 14 Feb (GTW), 25 Loch Libo 22 Mar (SJE), 2 prs Burntshields Pond 25 Mar (IPG), 10 Baron's Haugh 19 Apr (JCM), and 6 (3 prs) Cardross Bay 29 Apr (IPG). An unusual summer report was of 3 in Cardross Bay on 22 June (ADW).

Autumn-winter reports included a pair Baron's Haugh 6 July, 9 on 24 Aug (SK), 4 back at Merryton on 20 Aug, then 220 Carbarns Pool 26 Oct, 446 on 30 Nov, 339 on 7 Dec (AIE), 2 back Hogganfield Loch 6 Sep (CRS), 42 Arden 9 Sep (JBB), 25 Cardross Bay 9 Sep (per IPG), 36 on 10 Sep (GTu), 102 on 15 Sep (IPG), 4 Gartloch Pool 10 Sep (CRS), a ♂ on Chapel Farm Pool 23 Sep, 33 West Ferry 24 Sep, 96 on 26 Sep, 35 Caplaw Dam 27 Sep, 45 on 28 Oct (IPG), 60 at South Medwin Pools 27 Sep (JTT), and 12 on Burntshields Pond 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total290128521621118910382026226124982827217927242338
Sites recorded 116779686826964756676687168
Clyde estuary512423239133161436453478519458719589
Heritage Park E K769429344471781149011215579
Richmond Park, Glasgow7951282125778214212211613347
Black Cart Wtr, Inchinnan505553-324824250191698944
Strathclyde Country Park22264061018427395105000
Queen's Park, Glasgow7232202637614613510711315418
Hamilton Low Parks676645546476956860617561
Endrick Mouth1918248105113818-129482324

Winter-spring reports included 111 on River Clyde between Blantyre Farm-Carmyle on 12 Feb (CRS).

Breeding (broods reported)

Site Broods Young Obs SiteBroods Young Obs
Allander Toll 1 2AKMcN Glenbuck Loch 2 4RJH
Auchlochan Pond 3 12 RJHGryfe No 1 Reservoir 1 2MMcG
Balgray Reservoir 1 4JVW Hamilton LP, Small Pond1 2SLRS
Ballochruin Pool1 1AKMcN Helensburgh Reservoirs4 12 ANi
Banton Mill Pond 1 10 PGC High Dam, Eaglesham 1 6JVW
Baron's Haugh 5 19 RSPB Hogganfield Loch1 2CRS
Biggar Moss2 13 JVW Houston House Pond 1 3GB
Blackwater Farm Pool1 6IPGKilmardinny Loch 14 43 NK
Bothwell Farm Pool 1 4RJHKnapps Loch 1 5DSF
Buchley Pool 1 6AKMcN Kype Reservoir 1 1RJH
Caplaw Dam1 6IPGLinn Park8 45 SAW
Carron Valley Reservoir 1 3AKMcN Loch Ardinning1 7ECD
Carrot1 6JVW Loch Lomond, Balmaha1 10 MMcG
Castle Semple Loch 1 6MALoch Lomond, Inchconnachan1 6AKMcN
Cathkin Marsh 2 6ADWLochend Loch2 6CL
Chapel Farm Pool 1 5AB,IPGLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow1 13 RSPB
Coves Reservoir 1 1JHH Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 2 13 RSPB
Craigend Pond 2 9AKMcN Lochwinnoch, CS Loch 1 12 IPG
Douglas Estate Pools 6 32 KS Merryton/Carbarns 12 54 AIE
Douglas Water Pools 3 15 KS Monklands Canal Drumpellier2 7CL
Duneaton Water 1 4RJHNewshot Island 1 7ECD
Dunside Reservoir2 12 RJHOrchard Farm Pool 2 11 CL
Endrick Mouth 1 10 DHMcE R Clyde, Lamington 1 5JVW
Falls of Clyde2 9MMcG Roughrigg Reservoir 1 1FF
Glasgow, Auchinlea Park Pond 2 6CRSRouken Glen Pond 3 9JVW
Glasgow, Maxwell Park Pond 1 2CRSRowbank Reservoir 3 15 IPG
Glasgow, Queen's Park Ponds2 12 CRSSnypes Dam 1 3JVW
Glasgow, Richmond Park Ponds 1 8CRSTannoch Loch 1 1AKMcN
Glasgow, Springburn Park Ponds1 8CRSTownhead Reservoir 1 5PGC
Glasgow, Victoria Park Ponds 1 3CRSWhitefield Pond 1 7AMC

Summary: 123 broods reported from 60 sites, with a mean brood size 4.50/female (cf. mbs 4.82/female 1987-2008). Supplementary notes: (i) 2 ♀♀ each with recently hatched b/6 at Rowbank Resr on 18 May, ♀ with half-grown b/3 on 10 July (IPG); (ii) ♀ with newly-hatched b/10 Chapel Farm Pool 24 May (AB,IPG), still b/10 almost full-grown on 6 July, still ♀ with b/10 together full-grown 17 Aug (IPG); (iii) ♀ with recently hatched b/6 on Blackwater Pool 4 June (IPG); (iv) ♀ with b/12 half-grown young Castle Semple Loch 6 June (IPG); (v) ♀ with b/4 half-grown young Douglas Estate 19 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 140 Merryton/Carbarns 10 Aug, max 165 on 28 Sep (AIE), 54 Chapel Farm Pool 18 Sep, 66 on 23 Sep (IPG), and 92 Bardowie Loch 20 Oct (AKMcN).

 

Pintail Anas acuta

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total434100003015
Sites recorded 4111100002011
Clyde estuary400000002005
Merryton/Carbarns034000000000
Endrick Mouth0001000-1000
Lamington (R Clyde)100000000010

Winter-spring reports from the estuary were of 4 Cardross 6 Jan (RCW), 4 on 1 Feb (AGG), 1 ♂ in Ardmore North Bay 11 Jan (HS), 10 on 27 Jan (per JJM).

Inland reports involved 3 Endrick Mouth 3 Jan (ANi), 3 (2 ♂♂) at Carbarns Pool on 20 Jan, a ♂ on 27 Jan, 3 again 10-17 Feb, a pair on 19 Mar (AIE), a ♂ at Baron's Haugh on 29 Jan, 2 Feb (per JJM), 3 on 3 Feb (JCM), 4 (2 prs) at Merryton on 16 Mar (AIE), and a ♂ at Bridgend Farm Pool on 26 Apr (KH).

Autumn-winter estuary reports were of 1 Ardmore North Bay 29 Aug, 2 on 11 Sep, 3 on 26 Sep (ANi), 2 ♂♂ on 1 Nov (JBB), 2 Milton Island 14 Sep (JSW,VW), 2 Cardross Bay 15 Sep (IPG), 11 (5 ♂♂) on 10 Nov (GTu), 2 ♂♂ on 26 Nov (JGS), 6 (3 ♂♂) Longhaugh Point 1 Nov (ADW), 7 (3 ♂♂) East Ferry 16 Nov (DSF), 7 (4 ♂♂) Langbank-West Ferry 28 Dec (JND,ADW).

Inland reports were of 4 Baron's Haugh 17 Sep (JCM), a pair Wards Pond 31 Oct (ANi), a ♂ at Lamington on 12 Nov (PHB,JSW,VW), a ♂ Crom Mhin on 24 Nov (IF) and 5 Dec (JBB), a ♂ Gadloch 27 Dec (FC), 5 (3 ♂♂) in Net Bay, Endrick Mouth 27 Dec (ANi), still one ♂ on 30 Dec (ECD).

 

Teal Anas crecca

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total2238247317981008153105175199504134420381285
Sites recorded 5831323529555821262929
Clyde Estuary51557657541104030199456988541
White Cart Wtr (Neth)140170---------192
Black Cart Water SPA3501731850000087011039
Endrick Mouth1572337198330-714416360
Bridgend Farm Pool40199102560-00--1740
Douglas Estate Ponds8015012010012080901008012010050
South Medwin Pools-28927200121012258540
Thankerton-Carstairs9922040-----1413017

Winter-spring reports included 250 at Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth on 2 Jan, 150 on 24 Mar (AKMcN), 310 at Newshot Island 6 Jan (ACMB), 39 Barcraigs Resr 16 Jan (IPG), 97 Merryton/ Carbarns 27 Jan (AIE), 330 on Black Cart Water at Yonderton 28 Jan (GTW), 348 Longhaugh Point 10 Feb (JMC), 39 Craigmarloch Marsh 17 Feb (IPG), 40 on 28 Mar (ADW), and 39 Buchley Pool 8 Apr (CRS).

Breeding season reports involved 3 on the Duneaton Water 5 May (RJH), a pair Millersneuk Marsh 7 May (ADW), 1 Black Burn 11 May (RJH), a ♂ Gartloch Pools 13 May (IPG), 2 ♂♂ at Ring Point, Endrick Mouth 25 May (AKMcN), a pair Carbarns Pool 27-29 May and 4 June (AIE), 3 ♂♂ Carron Valley Resr 15 June, a pair Ballochruin Pool 28 June (AKMcN), and a ♀ with b/9 small ducklings on Douglas Estate middle pond on 18 July (IPG). Only one confirmed breeding report in 2008 (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 10 Balgray Resr 12 Aug (JSW,VW), 60 South Medwin Pool 2 Sep (ADW), 100 on 27 Sep (JTT), 37 Barscube Hill 14 Sep, 66 on 6 Oct (DSF), 25 Chapel Farm Pool 23-28 Sep, 31 on Barcraigs Resr 27 Sep (IPG), 89 Carbarns Pool 12 Oct (AIE), 210 Newshot Island 21 Oct (ECD), 580 at Longhaugh Point 2 Nov (IPG), 750 on 28 Dec (JND,ADW), and 100 at Glen Moss on 27 Dec (GBro).

 

Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis

A ♂ was at Douglas Water Pool on 30 Nov (DJA) and 3 Dec (SB).

 

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina

Origin unknown

A moulting ♂ was at Barr Loch at least 7 Aug-10 Sep (JBB et al), and an eclipse ♂ (possibly same bird) at Bardowie Loch on 20 Sep (AKMcN).

 

Pochard Aythya ferina

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total3503251361212759447810893
Sites recorded 37192014111334899
Hamilton Low Parks1501014120000000
Hogganfield Loch645121000175256711
Balgray Reservoir83613001000273742
Gartloch Pool4240002627332216
Bishop Loch183442000000001
Gadloch02000008-1101515
Douglas Estate Ponds121024000000002
Lochwinnoch18280000000000

Winter-spring reports included 40 Balgray Resr 9 Feb (JCh), and 3 at Baron's Haugh on 14 May (JCM).

Summer moult flocks included 2 ♂♂ at Balgray Resr on 11 June (JSW,VW), a pair at Baron's Haugh 29 June, 6 (5 ♂♂) there on 6 July (SK), 28 Hogganfield Loch 4 July, 49 on 31 July, max 52 on 21 Aug (CRS). Autumn-winter reports included max 33 Gartloch Pool 22 Oct, 17 on 24 Dec (GCC).

 

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total137218051282124131543911471401127910301051836
Sites recorded 95657572673746504754596154
Hogganfield Loch7576797611202243151349474110
Hamilton Low Parks33023511810176614307819415
Balgray Reservoir16144332103017225691783353
Lamington (R Clyde)-61544814353020107772105
Hillend Reservoir2125208181027012643210
Lochend Loch294537518213738301722-
Gadloch2243193502052-52192321
Roughrigg Reservoir310151344677563192016

Winter-spring reports included 270 Island Pond, Hamilton Low Parks 19 Jan (JJS), 30 Queen's Park Pond, Glasgow 23 Feb (JMcO), 60 Endrick Mouth 8 Apr (ANi), and 20 prs Harelaw Resr on 20 May (JSW,VW).

Tufted Duck breeding (broods reported)

Site Broods Young ObsSite Broods Young Obs
Auchlochan Pond 1 2 RJH Glasgow, Maxwell Park Pond 1 7CRS
Barr Loch 1 2 ZB Harelaw Reservoir 4 13 JVW
Carron Valley Reservoir 1 8 AKM Kilmardinny Loch9 22 NK
Craigend Pond 1 6 AKM Loch Ardinning 2 7AKM
Douglas Estate Pools3 9 KSLochcraig Reservoir 1 1JVW
Douglas Water Pools 1 3 KSPilmuir Dam1 2JVW
Forrestburn Reservoir 1 3 FF R Clyde, Lamington1 4JVW
Garvald Quarry 1 3 AMcA Whitefield Pond 2 11 AMC
Glasgow, Auchinlea Park Pond 4 27 CRS

Summary: 35 broods reported from 17 sites, with a mean brood size of 3.71/female (cf. mbs 3.78/female 1987-2008).

Moult flock counts were of 224 Hogganfield Loch 17 July, 315 on 21 Aug (CRS), 47 Rowbank/Barcraigs Resrs 3 Aug, 99 on 14 Aug (IPG), 109 Barr Loch 20 July, 163 on 17 Aug, max 216 on 22 Aug (RSPB), and 210 Balgray Resr 29 July (JSW,VW), max 287 on 10 Aug (JJS), 256 on 21 Aug (JSW,VW).

Autumn-winter reports included exceptional site counts at Gartloch Pool of 140 on 1 Sep (CJMcI) and 154 on 10 Sep (CRS), 70 Waulkmill Glen Resr 2 Sep (JSW,VW), 130 on 7 Sep (JCh), 128 on Balgray Resr 7 Sep, 3 on Chapel Farm Pool 28 Sep (IPG), and 200 Aird Meadow 15 Nov (RSPB).

 

Scaup Aythya marila

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
West Ferry-Woodhall4001000000000
Dumbarton-Cardross01222000000300
Clyde Estuary Total412221000000300

Winter-spring reports on the Clyde estuary involved a ♂ and ♀ at the Ironotter Point sewage outfall 8 Jan (FG), 2 ♀♀/imms at Cardross Bay 12 Jan (IPG), 3 on 22 Jan (ANi), 6 on 2 Feb (per BG), 6 on 6 Feb (ANi), 9 on 10 Feb (JBB), 12 on 13 Feb (IPG), 20 on 26 Feb (per BS), 22 on 9-12 Mar (RCW,JBB), 23 on 13 Mar (JBB), a ♂ on 27 Mar (ADW), a ♀ on 23 June (AGG), and 4 at West Ferry on 6 Jan (JMC). The spring build-up at West Ferry-Longhaugh Point was later and consisted of lower numbers than usual, with 12 (8 ♂♂) on 14 Feb (DSF), 6 on 14-16 Feb (WB, IPG), 5 on 17 Feb, 2 on 27 Mar, 18 on 6 Apr (IPG), 30 on 11 Apr (ADW), 25 on 14 Apr, at least 18 (on rough water) on 18 Apr, 29 on 19 Apr, 19 on 21 Apr, 30 on 22 Apr (IPG), max 34 on 23-24 Apr (IPG,ADW), 30 on 25 Apr, 31 on 26 Apr, 19 on 27 Apr, 22 on 29 Apr, 21 on 30 Apr-1 May, 22 on 2 May, none on 4-5 May (IPG).

Inland reports were of a 1st-w ♂ remaining on Littleton Resr from 2007 until 19 Feb (JSW,VW et al), a ♀ Aird Meadow 2 Jan-24 Feb (RSPB), a 1st-w ♀ at Heritage Loch 5 Jan, a ♀ on Possil Loch 10 Jan (JJM), a ♂ on Island Pond, Hamilton Low Parks 11 Jan (per JJM), presumed same ♂ Strathclyde Loch 12 Jan (CJMcI), back on Island Pond 19 Jan (JJS), a ♂ on 12 Apr (per BS), and 1 on Baron's Haugh 9 Feb (JCM).

Moulting period and autumn-winter inland reports involved 2 ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀ Balgray Resr 9‑10 Aug, 2 ♀♀ on 12 Aug (JJS,CJMcI et al), a ♂ Ryat Linn Resr 17 Sep (JSW,VW), a ♀ Aird Meadow on 30 Sep (MMcG) and 16 Nov, 1 on Barr Loch on 8 Oct and 19 Oct (RSPB), 3 Castle Semple Loch 21 Oct (per BS), 4 ♀♀/imms on 22 Oct (MMcG) , a ♂ Hogganfield Loch 21 Oct-1 Nov (JMcO et al), a 1st-w ♂ Strathclyde Loch 31 Oct (JJM), and 2 on River Clyde at Lamington on 12 Nov (PHB,JSW,VW).

Clyde estuary reports were of 4 W past Great Harbour, Greenock at 1800 hrs on 13 Sep (IPG), a pair Ardmore South Bay 3 Oct, 3 Cardross Bay 27 Oct (ANi), 4 on 1 Nov (JBB), 2 on 26 Nov (JGS), 2 (ad ♂ and 1st-w ♂) on 3 Dec (IPG), 5 on 26 Dec (JBB), and 3 at West Ferry on 28 Dec (JND,ADW).

 

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis

An eclipse ♂ was at Balgray Resr 22 July-17 Aug (JJS,JSW,VW et al), followed by an adult ♂ at Hogganfield Loch 19 Oct-31 Dec (CJMcI,JJM,CRS et al), a second adult ♂ also present 21-28 Oct (IF,CRS et al). It is conceivable that one of the Hogganfield birds was the bird from Balgray (ed.). See Short Notes.

 

Eider Somateria mollissima

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Langbank -Gourock Bay9525443406234102289515714136793
Gourock-Wemyss Bay440336298119866233876525543382210
Cardross-Rhu12717918358125249232217389174131243
Rhu-Coulport117811947885741088101163120932588139012811318
Clyde Estuary Total26972253160981313371486181431743389174821611864

Winter-spring counts included 752 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 6 Jan, 745 on 12 Jan, 384 on 10 Feb, 275 on 9 Mar, 278 Loch Long 11 Jan, 337 on 12 Feb, 873 Gare Loch (Rhu-Kilcreggan) 11 Jan, 326 on 12 Feb, 905 Port Glasgow-Cloch Point (including 745 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay) on 12 Jan, 524 (including 384 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay) on 10 Feb, 315 Helensburgh and 755 Rhu-Coulport 12 Feb (IPG).

Breeding season reports included 11 ♂♂ and 5 ♀♀ at Longhaugh Point on 25 Apr, 4 ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀ 26-28 Apr, 3 ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀ on 29 Apr, 2 ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀ East Ferry 25-30 Apr, 9 ♂♂ and 5 ♀♀ far up the estuary at Erskine shore (NS450731) on 1 May, 4 ♂♂ resting on mudflats West Ferry 3 June (IPG), 18 Longhaugh Point-West Ferry 22 June (JMC), and 6 ♀♀ at West Ferry on 1 July (IPG). Confirmed breeding reports involved a ♀ b/4 Helensburgh 2 June (HS), a ♀ b/2 Cardwell Bay 8 June (IPG), 50 ducklings counted in the Gare Loch and 5 at Kilgreggan on 21 June (CMW), a ♀ b/1 and a ♀ b/2 at Ironotter Point on 22 June, different broods of 3, 5 and 7 there on 20 July, a ♀ b/4 large ducklings unusually far up the estuary at West Ferry on 1 July (IPG), and a ♀ b/4 Finlaystone Point 14 July (DSF).

Moult flocks included only 166 Lunderston Bay 4 Aug, 270 on 9 Aug, total 1,795 between Wemyss Point and Greenock, including 800 at Inverkip power station jetty and 575 Greenock-Ardmore, on 9 Aug, 430 off Ardmore Point 29 Aug (IPG). Post-moult/autumn-winter reports included 245 at Wemyss Point 7 Sep, and 552 Port Glasgow-Cloch Point 26 Dec (IPG).

An unusual inland record was of an adult ♂ at Hogganfield Loch 30-31 Dec (JBB,JJS).

 

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra

There were 4 (2 ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀) off the south side of Ardmore Point on 13 Feb (IPG). An unusual record in late spring was a ♀ on Waulkmill Glen Resr on 30 May (JSW,VW).

Autumn-winter reports involved 9 S past Cloch Point between 1150-1250 hrs on 13 Sep (ADW), and 1 off Ardmore Point on 12 Oct (JBB).

 

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis

Two ♀♀/imm birds were on Balgray Resr from 11 Dec 2007 until 15 Feb, 1 ♀ remaining from 27 Feb to 21 Apr (JJS,JSW,VW et al). On the Clyde estuary were a ♀ off Ardmore Point on 11 Jan (GJB), 2 ♂♂ there on 2 Feb, a ♂ Craigendoran Pier 21 Jan (ANi), 1 Newshot Island 11 Jan (AJR), an adult ♂ off Kingston Dock, Port Glasgow on 9 Mar, probably same adult ♂ off south side Ardmore Point 18 Mar, and in full breeding plumage off East India Harbour on 18 May (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports involved a ♀ at Balgray Resr 12-24 Oct (JJS,JSW,VW et al), 1 off Ardmore North Bay 1 Nov-14 Dec (JBB,GJB et al), 1 Midross Ponds 7 Nov (ANi), a ♀ Aird Meadow 15-16 Nov (RSPB), a 1st-w ♀ Garnqueen Loch 21 Nov-27 Dec (TPD et al), a ♀/imm Bardowie Loch 7 Dec (AKMcN), and a ♀/imm at Carron Valley Resr on 21 Dec (CP).

 

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

Winter-spring reports included 62 Strathclyde Loch 2 Jan (IL), 14 at the Ironotter Point sewage outfall 6 Jan (IPG), 27 on 8 Jan (FG), 19 on 29 Jan (IPG), 77 on R Clyde between Blantyre Farm-Carmyle 16 Jan, 82 on 12 Feb, 44 on 4 Mar (CRS), 102 Longhaugh Point-West Ferry 10 Feb (JMC), 104 on 14 Feb (DSF), 106 off Cardross 13 Feb (IPG), 33 Baron's Haugh 18 Feb, 2 on 11 May (JCM), 157 Cardross-Ardmore 27 Mar (ADW), 452 Longhaugh Point-Langbank 27 Mar (IPG), total at least 639 on Clyde estuary 27 Mar (IPG, ADW), still 40 Longhaugh Point-West Ferry 22 Apr, 33 on 24 Apr, 17 on 25 Apr, 39 on 26 Apr, 1 on 1 May, 5 on 18 May, 8 on 24 May (IPG), an imm ♂ Merryton/Carbarns 2 May (AIE), and a pair at Mugdock Loch on 6 May (GJB). A ♀ at Barcraigs Resr on 12 May was quite late at that site (IPG).

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Erskine to West Ferry *261079310100001084152
Langbank to Newark Castle316726115003420105
Gourock to Wemyss Bay11102000000036
Dumbarton Rock to Cardross16106325021000729
Seabank to Craigendoran623612000000513
Clyde Estuary Total18536919413752134121080211

* (including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock)

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total6801018668371852371336358549
Sites recorded 764751522932232103733
Clyde estuary18536919413752134121080211
Lamington (R Clyde)-1261023913111354107
R Clyde Blantyreferme-Carmyle778244400000000
Hogganfield Loch68282316000000925
Lochwinnoch SSSI60810000000000
Hamilton Low Parks322819150000003317
Antermony Loch16141960000063218
Balgray Reservoir252615130000001620

The moult flock on the Clyde estuary numbered 8 at Langbank on 8 July, 23 on 10 July (ADW), 34 West Ferry-Langbank 15 Aug, 24 at Langbank on 24 Aug, 8 West Ferry 6 Sep, 14 on 10 Sep, 21 on 11 Sep, 37 on 12 Sep (IPG), 34 on 14 Sep (ADW), 30 on 24 Sep, and 45 on 26 Sep (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 2 at Baron's Haugh 12 July (GJB), 1 at Aird Meadow 30 Sep (MMcG), 50 on 29 Nov (RSPB), 56 on River Clyde between Blantyre Farm-Carmyle 10 Dec (CRS), and 12 on Black Cart Water at Howwood 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Smew Mergellus albellus

Winter-spring reports were of an adult ♂ on the River Clyde at Strathclyde Country Park 3 Jan-8 Mar, same bird occasionally on Strathclyde Loch from 27 Jan onwards, tending to be on the river by day, and going onto the loch to roost (IMcC,IF,CJMcI et al).

Autumn-winter reports involved a 'redhead' at Antermony Loch on 21 Dec (MC).

 

Goosander Mergus merganser

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total2342531751042424122152955142131
Sites recorded 753738262746648192324
Endrick Mouth686500100-0299
Strathclyde Country Park1531650-0000000
Douglas Estate Ponds1010128101220601610
Hogganfield Loch16345800000999
Waulkmill/Littleton51038000000000
Balgray Reservoir536214000001211
Lanark Loch1774000000-1710
Ryat Linn Reservoir1000000000522

Winter-spring reports included 51 Waulkmill Glen Resr 3 Jan (JSW,VW et al), 16 Hogganfield Loch 9 Jan (CRS), 20 on 31 Jan (FJM), 34 on 8 Feb (CRS), 56 at Balgray Resr on 13 Jan, 66 on 8 Feb, 38 on 9 Feb, 24 on 15 Feb, 30 on 8 Mar, 45 on 9 Mar (JJS), 13 on R Clyde, Blantyreferme-Carmyle 16 Jan (CRS), 15 (13 ♂♂) Caplaw Dam 16 Jan (IPG), 12 on R Clyde at the Botanic Gardens 20 Jan (CJMcI), 16 Mugdock Loch 21 Jan (AKMcN), 2 prs on River Gryfe at Knowes 29 Jan (IPG), 13 on White Cart Water at Langside (JMcO), 6 on White Cart Water at Carlyle Quay, Paisley town centre 6 Feb (GTW), 4 prs Monklands Canal, Drumpellier on 7 Feb (CL), 125 Strathclyde Loch 6 Mar (DMo), and 4 on River Kelvin at Garscube Estate 8 Apr (TB). Unusually, a ♂ was on the small flood pool at Chapel Farm, Houston on 24 Apr (IPG).

Breeding season reports were of 2 prs b/7, b/4 Merryton/Carbarns (AIE), a pair on Black Linn Resr 14 Apr (SPM), a pair Firkin 19 Apr (DHMcE), a ♀ with b/10 small ducklings on White Cart Water at Spean Rd “in early May” (SC), a ♀ incubating at Endrick Mouth on 10 May (AKMcN), a ♀ b/9 (medium-sized) on R Clyde at Cuningar Loop 1 June (CRS), a ♀ b/8 on White Cart Water at Linn Park 6 June (SAW), a pair on the Endrick Water at Netherton 6 June (DAB), a ♀ b/6 Rossdhu Bay 27 June (ANi), and a ♀ b/8 on the River Clyde at SECC on 1 July (KMcC).

Moult flock and autumn-winter reports included 60 in Net Bay, Loch Lomond on 17 May (ANi), an exceptional count of 320 there on 31 Aug (IF), 142 on 7 Sep (JBB), 5 ♀♀/juvs at West Ferry on 1 July, 6 Langbank 12 Sep (IPG), 12 on Endrick Water at Netherton on 23 July (DAB), 7 on Hogganfield Loch 24 Sep (RHW), 11 on Barcraigs Resr 5 Oct (IPG), 30 at Waulkmill Glen Resr on 16 Nov, 52 Ryat Linn Resr 18 Nov (JSW,VW), 33 Bardowie Loch 7 Dec (AKMcN), 10 Midross 8 Dec (ANi), 13 on R Clyde, Blantyre Farm-Carmyle 10 Dec (CRS), and 176 on Strathclyde Loch on 10 Dec (JCM).

 

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
West Ferry-Gourock Bay32394184145017400
Dumbarton -Craigendoran1122146252442074272700
Craigendoran-Coulport17251328321408131200
Clyde Estuary Total69957110912610420853982500

Winter-spring reports included 58 Cardross-Ardmore 12 Jan, 90 on 13 Feb (IPG), 104 between West Ferry-Port Glasgow 31 Mar (ADW), and 37 off Greenock 18 May (IPG).

Breeding season reports were of 2 prs Endrick Mouth 12 Apr, 3 prs 27 Apr-10 May, 1 ♂ on 25 May (AKMcN,DHMcE), 3 ♂♂ and a ♀ on Loch Lomond at Rowardennan 3 May (CJMcI), a pair in Sallochy Bay on 12 May (MMcG), a predated egg Inchconnachan 23 May (AKMcN), a pair Victoria Harbour, Greenock 19 June (SPM), a ♀ Firkin 21 June (DHMcE), a ♀ b/6 on River Clyde at Lamington 14 July (JSW,VW), a pair b/4 Cloch Point 24 July (MMcG), and a ♀ b/4 at Rosneath on 17 Aug (CMW).

Autumn-winter reports included 127 Cardross Bay 20 July (JBB), 158 Cardross-Ardmore 9 Aug, 22 Port Glasgow-Cloch Point 26 Dec (IPG), and 1 at Net Bay, Endrick Mouth on 27 Dec (ANi).

 

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis

Winter (Jan-Feb) reports were of 3 (1 ♂) at Hogganfield Loch on 4 Jan, 4 on 5 Jan, a ♂ on 6 Jan, 5 (2 ♂♂) on 8-9 Jan, 1 ♂ on 29 Jan, 2 ♂♂ on 30 Jan, 3 ♂♂ on 4 Feb (JJM et al), a pair on 6 Mar (CRS), and a pair Castle Semple Loch 13 Jan (NC).

Spring-summer reports were of pair Hogganfield Loch 6 Mar, 2 ♂♂ on 27 Mar, 6 (4 ♂♂) on 3 Apr, 5 (2 ♂♂) on 7 Apr, pair on 10 Apr, pair on 21-27 June, a ♂ on 9 Aug (CRS), a ♂ at Baron's Haugh on 11 Mar-27 Apr (GJB,GS et al), 2 ♂♂ on 5 May (GS), 1 ♂ on 6-15 May (LS, GJB), 2 ♂♂ on 3 June-6 July (GJB,SK), 1 ♂ Gartloch Pool 7 Apr, a pair on 16 Apr (CRS), a ♂ on 7 May (ADW), a pair Johnston Loch 28 May (IMcC), 4 (2 ♂♂) on 14 Aug (TPD), a pair Frankfield Loch 19 June (AKMcN), and a ♂ Balgray Resr 13-23 July (PHB,DLC et al).

Breeding was confirmed only at the following two sites:

Johnston Loch a ♀ with almost full-grown juv 14 Aug (TPD).

Kilmardinny Loch a ♀ reared b/4 (NK).

Breeding summary: At least 2 broods hatched at 2 sites, and an estimated 5 young reared.

Ruddy Duck Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total7841011732916100
Sites recorded 13223455312110
Hogganfield Loch54260202816100
Garnqueen Loch04103000000-
Bothwell Park Fm Pond000-31000000
Kilmardinny Loch0001200-1000
Woodend Loch00021000000-
Greenhead Pond000020100000
Frankfield Loch0000020-00-0
Baron's Haugh001000100000
Lochwinnoch200000000000
Gadloch0000010-0000
Antermony Loch000001000000
Balgray Reservoir000000100000
Gartloch Pool000100000000

Autumn-winter reports were of 4 (2 ♂♂, ♀ b/1) Johnston Loch 14 Aug (TPD), 2 ♂♂ Hogganfield Loch 21 Aug (CRS), 5 (2 ♂♂) on 25 Aug, 3 (2 ♂♂) on 26-28 Aug (JJM), 3 ♂♂ on 2 Sep (GS), 5 ♂♂ on 5-6 Sep, 7 ♂♂ on 7-11 Sep, also ♀ on 11 Sep, 15 (9 ♂♂) on 17-20 Sep, 14 (10 ♂♂) on 30 Sep, 15 (10 ♂♂) on 1 Oct, 13 (11 ♂♂) on 2 Oct, 14 on 3 Oct, 15 (11 ♂♂) on 5 Oct, 15 (10 ♂♂) on 10 Oct, 15 (8 ♂♂) on 13 Oct, 16 (10 ♂♂) on 15 Oct (CRS), 11 (7 ♂♂) on 19 Oct, 15 (9 ♂♂) on 20 Oct (CJMcI), 15 (10 ♂♂) on 23 Oct (CRS), max count 23 (13 ♂♂) on 24 Oct (TPD), 18 (11 ♂♂) on 28 Oct (CRS), 14 (8 ♂♂) on 31 Oct (JJM), 13 (8 ♂♂) on 1 Nov, 16 (10 ♂♂) on 2 Nov, 17 (10 ♂♂) on 4 Nov, 12 (8 ♂♂) on 14 Nov, 10 (8 ♂♂) on 18 Nov, 10 on 26 Nov, 9 (5 ♂♂) on 1 Dec, 2 ♂♂ on 3 Dec, 1 ♂ on 4 Dec (CRS), and a ♂ at Gadloch on 23 Aug (FC).

 

Swift Apus apus

Spring arrival involved 1 Baron's Haugh 23 Apr (JCM), 3 over Lochwinnoch village at 1930 hrs on 27 Apr (RSPB), 30 at Strathclyde Loch on the evening of 28 Apr (KH), 80 on 2 May (SMcC), 100 on 3 May (KH), 20 at Balgray Resr in evening 29 Apr (DLC), 30 on 1 May (JSW,VW), 2 at Newshot Island 1 May (AJR), 35 at Auchendores Resr 4 May (IPG), 4 East Kilbride 4 May (NWh), 3 Blairhill, Coatbridge 6 May (CL), 2 at Cardross 9 May (FL), 2 Colgrain 11 May (DHMcE), 3 at Balmaha 12 May (MMcG), 50 Carmyle 27 May (CRS), 25 Merryton 27 May (AIE), and 30 at Gryfe Plantation on 28 May (MMcG).

Breeding season reports included 2 at Marjory Rd, Renfrew on 7 June, 4 on 29 June (ECD), 3 screaming Wellshot/Shettleston Rd junction, Tollcross 21 June (CRS), 5 Erskine 28 June (ECD), 10 entering nest holes at Ailsa Homes, Springhill, Barrhead on 4 July (JCh), and 8 at Lochfield Rd, Paisley on 28 July (TB).

During summer the first birds seen feeding over West Renfrew Heights moorland were 2 over Duchal Moor on 26 May (later than usual), thereafter 1 over Queenside Muir 6 June, 7 over Leap Moor 8 June, 11 Creuch Hill 14 June, thereafter only small nos (1-3) until last 1 Duchal Moor 13 July (earlier than usual) (IPG), 50 at Aird Meadow 20 June (RSPB), 50 feeding at R Kelvin at Torrance 28 June, 100 feeding at Endrick Mouth on 29 June (DHMcE), 40 on 7 July (MMcG), 50 feeding around Chapel Farm, Houston on 1 July and 6 July (IPG), 30 at Arkleston Farm on 1 July (SPM), 60 Inverkip 12 July (MMcG), 215 feeding over Barochan Moss on 14 July (IPG), 150 feeding over fields east of Newshot Island 17 July, 30 on 8 Aug (AJR), 20 over Netherlee on 25 July (SAW), 30 feeding over Glen Moss, Kilmacolm 27 July (GBro), 42 over Strathclyde Country Park on 3 Aug (IL), 160 Leapmoor Forest 7 Aug (MMcG), 6 Muirshiel Country Park 8 Aug (CMRS), 4 Merryton 10 Aug (AIE), 6 Cart/Clyde confluence 12 Aug (ECD), 1 Burnhouse 16 Aug (JSW,VW), 1 at Baron's Haugh on 24 Aug (SK), 1 Balgray Resr 26 Aug (JSW,VW), 5 over East Fulwood 27 Aug (IPG), 4 over Hogganfield Loch 28 Aug (JJM), 20 Meiklehill Farm, Lenzie 30 Aug (JTMcE), 1 Drymen 13 Sep (SM), 1 Ralston 15 Sep (PHB, DLC), 1 over Netherlee 17 Sep (SAW), and a very late bird at Baron's Haugh on 19 Oct (SLo).

 

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus

The first spring arrivals reported were a singing ♂ at Muirshiel Country Park on 21 Apr (KMcG), one at Craigend Farm, Strathblane 21 Apr (DK), followed by one at Cornalees Bridge 22 Apr (SJM), one Muirhouse Muir 22 Apr (AKMcN), one Douglas Estate 23 Apr (JBB), one Darndaff Moor 27 Apr (IPG), one at Darleith on 27 Apr (FL), one Helensburgh Resr 27 Apr (ANi), and one at Barscube Hill on 28 Apr (DSF).

Reports of singing ♂♂ from 1 May onwards

Site ♂♂ Obs Site ♂♂ ObsSite♂♂ Obs
Auchenfoyle Camp 1SPM Ferret of Keith Moor1MMcG Loch Lomond, Sallochy1MMcG
Auchengower1DKe Finnich Glen 1AKMcN Lyles Hill 1CMRS
Auchineden1GJBGarshangan 1FGMeall Mor nan Eag 1ECD
Ballochruin Pool1AKMcN Gimlet Burn 1IPG Mugdock Wood1AKMcN
Ben Glas1ECD Gleann nan Caorann 2ECDMuirhouse Muir1AKMcN
Ben Lomond 1ECD Glen Falloch1ECDMuirshiel Country Park 2IPG
Cleuch Farm1JDa Glen Falloch Lodge 1ECDMyres Hill 1JVW
Cornalees Bridge1SJMGlen Moss 1DSF Neilston Pad1JVW
Corse Hill 1JVW Gryfe Plantation 1MMcG Netherton of Glenboig Fm 1DAB
Cowgill Loch2JVW Helensburgh Golf Course1DHMcENetherwood, Kilmacolm 1IPG
Creuch Hill 1MMcG Helensburgh Reservoirs1ANi Powbrone Burn 2JVW
Crom Mhin 1MMcG Inversnaid 2RSPB River Clyde, Abington1JBB
Darleith 1FL Lettershaws 1JDaRottenburn Bridge 1MMcG
Dippany Farm 1IPGLoch Ardinning1CJMcISmeath Hill 1IPG
Dowries Farm1IPGLoch Lomomd, Inveruglas 1ECDTandlemuir1GBro
Drumclog Muir1CJMcI Loch Lomond, Cashel1ECDTreesbank1SD
Drumshangie Moss 1KH L Lomond, Inchconnachan1AKMcN Troisgeach Bheag 1ECD
Dumbrock Muir 1AKMcN L Lomond, Inverarnan1ECDWindy Hill1GBro
Endrick Mouth 1ANiL Lomond, Rowardennan1ECD

Breeding summary: 61 singing ♂♂ reported at 56 sites in 2008. Supplementary notes included: one at Kaim Moss on 2 June was thought to be a ♀ due to its silence and furtive behaviour (IPG).

Late reports involved one at Netherton of Glenboig Farm on 12 July (DAB), and one between Condorrat and Mollinsburn on 21 July (GW).

 

Feral Pigeon Columba livia

Counts included 160 at Bellgrove Station, Glasgow on 19 Jan (AKMcN), 110 around Paisley Cross on 11 Apr (IPG), 70 at Tollcross Park, Glasgow on 27 Aug, 77 at Hogganfield Park LNR on 5 Sep (CRS), and 150 at Paisley Cross on 4 Nov (SPM).

 

Stock Dove Columba oenas

Winter-spring reports included 3 at East Millichen Farm on 12 Jan (CRS), 6 Bishopton 16 Jan (DSF), 100 at Blackstoun Farm 27 Jan, 100 on 2 Feb, max 120 on 4 Feb, 14 Feb and 7 Mar, 89 on 12 Apr, 40 on 2 May (DSF,GTW), 2 Dumgoyne 6 Feb, 2 Carbeth 6 Feb (RAB), 2 Cairnhill Woods 14 Feb (TB), 9 Finlaystone Estate 14 Feb (DSF), 2 Fannyside Mill 23 Mar (MMcG), 6 Linn Park 27 Mar (SAW), 9 Bowling Oil Terminal 18 May (JSW,VW), and a pair at Robroyston Park LNR on 13 May (IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs
Ardmore1 ANi Dougalston (south) 1 AKMcNKilmardinny Loch 1 AKMcN
Barnsford Bridge1 GTWErkine shore 1 ECD Longhaugh Point 1 DSF
Barochan Moss1 IPGGarscube Estate 1 TB Merryton/Carbarns 5 AIE
Colgrain 1 DHMcE Glasgow, Linn Park 3 SAWRobroyston Park LNR1 IPG
Daldowie 1 CRS Glasgow, Millichen Farms1 SL Walkinshaw Gardens 4 GTW

Summary: 24 pairs at 15 sites reported in 2008. Under-recorded (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 5 Erskine 28 June, 2 Newshot Island 20 July, 2 Baron's Haugh 4 Aug (ECD), 4 at Aprochill Farm 29 Sep (NWh), 1 Barscube Hill 7-19 Sep (DSF), 2 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 28 Oct (DK), 6 Millichen Farm 26 Nov (JGS), 2 Ballevoulin Glen Fruin 23 Dec (JTT), 2 West Porton, Bishopton 28 Dec (JND,ADW), and 2 at Blackstoun Farm on 29 Dec, 5 on 31 Dec (DSF).

 

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus

Winter-spring reports included 115 at Garthland Wood, Lochwinnoch 16 Jan (MMcG), 180 at Merryton on 27 Jan, 600 on 17 Feb, 400 on 2 Mar, 190 on 4 Apr (AIE), 1,300 at Blackstoun Farm on 11 Jan, 750 on 13 Jan, 1,010 on 27 Jan, 1,200 on 2 Feb, max count 1,500 on 14 Feb, 420 on 27 Feb, 500 on 4 Mar (DSF,IPG,GTW), and 85 feeding in a grass field at Burnfoot, Howwood 24-27 Feb (IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Barr Loch 1ZB Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 5SLMid Netherton/Pedmyre 6SL
Barscube Hill7DSFGlasgow, Millichen Farms4SLRobroyston 1BZ
Dougalston (south) 3AKMcN Glasgow, Windlaw Farm1SLStrathclyde CP, Roman Fort 1IL
Finnich Glen 1AKMcN Langbank 4DSF

Summary: 18 pairs at 7 sites reported in 2008, a seriously under-recorded common species (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 200 Millichen Flood 29 Aug, 200 Allander Toll 29 Aug (CRS), 100 Town of Inchinnan Farm 10 Oct, 100 by Black Cart Water at Inchinnan 17 Oct (GTW), 200 at Middle Gartocharn Farm 1 Nov (JTT), 220 Barscube Hill 3 Nov (DSF), 300 Arkleston 7 Nov (ADW), 400 roosting on wooded island Hogganfield Loch 29 Nov (LMcB), 500 on stubble Gadloch 5 Dec (DHMcE), and 400 at Shilton Lane, Erskine on 31 Dec (ACMB).

 

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto

Breeding reports (nesting or territorial pairs)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Cloch Caravans 1 FG Kilmacolm, Broomknowe Rd 1 ABNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1 DAB
Cowgill Upper Reservoir 1 ECD Laigh Barnaigh 1 IPGWesterton Station 1 AKMcN
Glasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SLLangbank3 DSF

Summary: only 10 pairs at 8 sites reported in 2008; a seriously under-recorded species (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included counts of 36 at Barscube Hill 18 Sep (DSF), 22 East Millichen Farm 25 Sep (GJB), and 10 at Old Mains Farm, Erskine on 26 Oct (ECD).

 

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total43511674410332
Sites recorded 12223735335211
Clyde estuary322001024232
Douglas Estate Ponds001233212000
Kilmardinny Loch0002101-2100
Possil Loch0--2---10000
Bishop Loch000201001000
Douglas Water Pool000121000000
Merryton/Carbarns002100000000
Frankfield Loch0000010-10-0
Craighall Dam-0000-100000
Baron's Haugh000100000000
Hamilton Low Parks010000000000
Helensburgh Resrs100000000000

Winter-spring reports included 1 Helensburgh Resrs 6 Jan (ANi).

Breeding season reports included 1 territory Barr Loch, 1 territory Aird Meadow (RSPB), 5 terrs Merryton (AIE), a territory Douglas Estate middle Pool (KS), a pair b/4 Kilmardinny Loch (NK), 2 squealing Bishop Loch 7 Apr (CRS), 1 squealing Loch Ardinning 14 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Baron's Haugh 27 Apr (TB), 13 prs and two singles tape-lured Millersneuk Marsh 7 May (ADW), 1 squealing Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 10 May (AKMcN), 2 prs and two singles Cathkin Marsh 16 May, 2 prs and one single Windlaw Marsh 16 May (ADW), 1 calling Kelvinhead 6 June (PGC), 3 calling Hogganfield Loch 8 June, 1 Frankfield Loch 19 June (AKMcN).

Autumn-winter reports included 2 Newshot Island 23 July (ECD), 1 on 14 Aug (IPG et al), 7 on 28 Sep (AJR), 3 on 16 Nov (ACMB), 4 Baron's Haugh 31 Aug (GS), 2 calling 21 Sep, 1 calling Erskine Harbour 24 Sep (IPG), 2 Wards Pond 29 Nov (DO'B), 2 calling Windlaw 24 Dec (IPG), and 4 Hogganfield Loch 25 Dec (AJY).

 

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total286269228241167161196132213191226220
Sites recorded 81494947523942433745374339
Kilmardinny Loch18212426283134?18192226
Queen's Park, Glasgow222519166871513192810
F&CC Maryhill Lock-GW Road3020-23125789111722
F&CC Clydebank-Bowling31912633111217131019
Hamilton Low Parks16201711581251131014
Monkland (Drumpellier)1511416121117?19136
Richmond Park, Glasgow1010131046709101310
Douglas Estate Ponds3612141212875560

Winter-spring reports included 8 in the Molendinar Burn (a ditch at this point) at Strathclyde University Sports Ground between Hogganfield Loch and Frankfield Loch on 3 Jan (FJM).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Young ObsSite Prs YoungObs
Banton Mill Pond 1 1PGC Glasgow, Victoria Park Ponds 4 6 CRS
Barnbeth Pond 1 2IPG Hamilton LP, Goose Pond2 4 SLRS
Baron's Haugh 4 4RSPB Hamilton LP, Island Pond2 4 SLRS
Biggar Moss5 2JVWHamilton LP, Ross Pond2 3 SLRS
Carrot 1 - JVWHarelaw Dam1 -JVW
Cathkin Marsh 1 - ADW Helensburgh Reservoirs 2 13 ANi
Chapel Farm Pool 2 3IPG Houston House Pond1 1 GB
Coves Reservoir 1 2JHH Kilmardinny Loch 1447 NK
Dawsholm Park Pond 1 - CRS Kilsyth Curling Pond1 4 PGC
Douglas Estate Pools 4 9KSLawmarnock Pond 1 1 IPG
Douglas Water Pools 2 7KSLoch Bowie1 1 MMcG
F&C Canal, Milngavie Junction1 - SPM Loch Libo1 -JVW
Garvald Quarry 2 9AMcAMerryton/Carbarns 7 -AIE
Glasgow, Alexandra Park Pond 1 2CRS Monklands Canal Drumpellier 4 4 CL
Glasgow, Auchinlea Park Pond 1 - CRS Newshot Island 1 2 ECD
Glasgow, Kelvingrove Park Pond2 4CRS Stabilee Farm Pond 1 -IPG
Glasgow, Maxwell Park Pond 7 7CRS Walls Loch 1 -IPG
Glasgow, Queen's Park Ponds2 3CRS Whitefield Pond1 1 AMC
Glasgow, Richmond Park Ponds 3 4CRS Windlaw Marsh 1 -ADW
Glasgow, Springburn Park Ponds36CRS

Breeding summary: 93 breeding pairs reported at 39 sites, with a mean reported brood size of 2.00 young/ pair. Other observations included: (i) the successful pair at Chapel Farm Pool reared one young at first attempt, then had three small chicks on 10 Sep, still surviving 14 Sep, two chicks 21-28 Sep (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 20 Queen's Park, Glasgow 21 Dec (SPM), and 14 at Merryton/ Carbarns on 28 Dec when all ponds frozen (AIE).

 

Coot Fulica atra

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total758705518488335466696596838518608412
Sites recorded 77445650474143454143444331
Hogganfield Loch97442591729858284414088
Gadloch49693321405159-145214040
Lochend Loch6650232515406976452862nc
Hamilton Low Parks724434361931293537446013
Johnston Loch18301818873940965662nc
Garnqueen Loch556526229304136543023nc
Woodend Loch321515219106546443741nc
Harestonhill Pond18128761821224451418

Winter-spring reports included one on the sea in Portkil Bay on 12 Feb (IPG).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Young Obs Site Prs Young Obs
Baron's Haugh 14 15RSPB Glasgow, Queen's Park Ponds34 CRS
Biggar Moss3 7 JVWGlasgow, Richmond Park Ponds 31 CRS
Bothwell Farm Pond4 4 RJH Glasgow, Springburn Park Ponds 52 CRS
Burntshields Pond1 0 IPG Hamilton LP, Goose Pond 26 SLRS
Caplaw Dam4 3 IPG Hamilton LP, Half Pond 413SLRS
Cathkin Marsh 1 -ADW Hamilton LP, Island Pond 512SLRS
Chapel Farm Pool 1 0 IPG Hamilton LP, Usual Pond 12 SLRS
Coves Reservoir 2 3 JHH Houstonhead Dam 10 GB
Cowdenknowes Reservoir 2 5 JHH Kilmardinny Loch 11 31NK
Craighall Dam3 8 JVWLinwood Pool28 GTW
Douglas Estate Pools 4 6 KSLochend Loch25 CL
Douglas Water Pools 1 4 KSMerryton/Carbarns14 20AIE
Gartloch Pool3 4 CRS Millersneuk Marsh5-ADW
Glasgow, Alexandra Park Pond 1 2 CRS Orchard Farm Pool23 CL
Glasgow, Auchinlea Park Pond 3 1 CRS Town Dam, Greenock 13 JHH
Glasgow, Maxwell Park Pond 2 2 CRS

Summary: 110 breeding pairs reported at 31 sites, mean brood size 1.67 young/pair, suggesting a moderately productive breeding season (cf. 1.35 young/pair 1987-2008). Other observations included: (i) a pair with recently hatched b/4 at Chapel Farm Pool 3 June when pool was rapidly drying up (drained by farmer), none present 1 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter counts included 37 Balgray Resr 8 Oct (JCh), 42 Carbarns Pool 11 Oct (AIE).

 

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total78103113694352768116314910487
Sites recorded 72252932272124352638302717
Lamington (R Clyde)-282820011526382739
Clyde estuary171611000021071513
Houstonhead Dam9844454671295
Thankerton-Carstairs666-----0337
Harestonhill Pond1003126118620
Heritage Park, EK335001223455
Harelaw Dam-74103-336310
Hogganfield Loch0022236211220

Winter-spring reports included 2 Rosneath Bay 11 Jan, 7 on 12 Feb (IPG), 1 on Black Cart Water below Barnsford Bridge 14 Feb (GTW), 7 Merryton Pond 2 Mar (AIE), 1 on flooded Craigmarloch Marsh 2 Mar (IPG), 10 Auchendores Resr 8 Apr (ECD), and 1 at Rowbank Resr on 11 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs YoungObs SitePrsYoungObs
Baron's Haugh 2 2 RSPBHarelaw Dam, Neilston 5 -JVW
Burntshields Pond1 -IPG Helensburgh Reservoirs 1 3 ANi
Caplaw Dam 1 2 IPG Hogganfield Loch1 -PA
Carron Valley Reservoir 1 -AKMcNHoustonhead Dam 2 3 GB
Coves Reservoir 2 2 JHH Kaim Dam 2 0 IPG
Craighall Dam 2 -JVWKilmardinny Loch 1 2 NK
Daff Reservoir 1 -IPG Leitchland Dam 1 -FG
Douglas Estate Pools 2 7 KS Linwood Pool 1 -GTW
East Kilbride, Heritage Park2 3 DWM Loch Walton1 -AKMcN
Finlaystone Estate Pond 1 1 DSF Millersneuk Marsh 1 -ADW
Garvald Quarry2 4 AMcATownhead Reservoir 1 3 PGC
Glasgow, Maxwell Park Pond1 -CRS Walls Loch1 3 IPG
Glasgow, Robroyston Park Ponds 1 -IPG Whitefield Pond1 2 AKMcN
Glasgow, Victoria Park Pond 1 3 CJMcI

Summary: 39 pairs reported from 27 sites, with a mean reported productivity of 1.87 young/pair (cf. annual mean brood size 1.56 young/pair 1987-2008). Supplementary notes: (i) pair b/3 Walls Loch 31 May (IPG); (ii) 2 pairs at Kaim Dam on 2 June either failed or had been unable to nest due to low water levels (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 3 Carron Valley Resr 3 Aug (AKMcN), 5 Helensburgh Resrs 17 Aug (ANi), 1 Newshot Island 14 Aug, 1 on Chapel Farm Pool 24 Aug-12 Sep, none 13-22 Sep, 2 (adult and juv) on 23 Sep, still the juv on 26 Sep, 1 on Blackwater Farm Pool 31 Aug-7 Sep, 10 Caplaw Dam 27 Sep, still 8 on 28 Oct (IPG), 8 Newshot Island 4 Nov (ECD), 9 on 28 Nov (AJR), 1 on White Cart Water at Linn Park on 11 Nov and 3 Dec (SAW), 11 Houstonhead Dam 12 Nov (DKe), and 3 on the Black Cart Water at Howwood on 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total541068510765485014826332111156
Sites recorded 31891720181613810955
Clyde estuary358444452258117208797146
Balgray Reservoir663620812171086
Hogganfield Loch102445181123400
Waulkmill/Littleton127602222221
Forrestburn Reser044535122200
Bishop Loch032658000000
Roughrigg Reservoir412642001012
Hillend Reservoir103530007000

Winter-spring reports included 7 in Rosneath Bay 11 Jan, only 56 off Ardmore Point on 12 Jan (IPG), 43 on 10 Feb (DO'B), 71 on 18 Feb (AKMcN), 61 on 13 Feb (IPG), 59 on 27 Mar (ADW), 27 (additional to Ardmore birds on 13 Feb) off Helensburgh 12 Feb, 6 Langbank 27 Mar, 5 in Gare Loch at Rahane 31 Mar, and 2 at West Ferry 26-27 Apr (IPG).

Return to breeding lochs involved 4 Barr Loch 16 Jan (MMcG), a pair Hogganfield Loch 23 Jan, a pair displaying Aird Meadow 21 Feb (MMcG), 5 on 4 Mar (HAD), 7 at Endrick Mouth on 16 Mar and 10 May, 7 on Hogganfield Loch 17 Mar (AKMcN), a pair back Barcraigs Resr by 23 Apr, still there 12 May, moved to Rowbank Resr 25 May, pair with nest there and single adult on Barcraigs Resr 21 June, pair with nest on Rowbank and pair and a single bird on Barcraigs Reservoir 25 June (IPG), and 6 on Barr Loch 31 Mar, 8 there on 11 Apr and 18 May (RSPB).

Great Crested Grebe breeding reports

Site Prs Young Obs Site PrsYoung Obs
Baron's Haugh 1 0RSPB Kaim Dam 1 0IPG
Bishop Loch 4 - CRSLochwinnoch RSPB 5 0RSPB
Carron Valley Reservoir 1 2CRSRowbank Reservoir 1 2IPG
Gartloch Pool1 2CRSWalton Dam1 1IAM
Hamilton Low Parks, Island Pond 1 2SLRS Waulkmill Glen Reservoir 1 0JVW
Hogganfield Loch2 3CRS

Summary: 19 pairs at 11 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a pair present at Gartloch Pool on 13 May (IPG); (ii) a pair at Kaim Dam on 2 June had either failed or were unable to nest due to falling water levels (IPG); (iii) adult/s on nest in north bay of Rowbank Resr 21 June-10 July, with 2 young estimated one-week old on 23 July, still b/2 on 3 Aug, only 1 adult with 1 juv seen on 14 Aug (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 3 on the Clyde estuary at Langbank 1 July, 8 on 15 Aug (IPG), 102 off Craigendoran 26 July (JBB), 140 off Ardmore North Bay 29 Aug (IPG), site record nos Hogganfield Loch, where 22 on 6 Sep, max 24 on 10 Sep, 23 from 11-18 Sep (CRS), 1 on 24 Dec, 1 West Ferry 11 Sep, 14 at Langbank on 12 Sep (IPG), a pair displaying Waulkmill Glen Reservoir 31 Oct, still present 24 Dec (JSW, VW), 9 Balgray Resr 26 Dec (JCh), and 3 in Lunderston Bay on 26 Dec (IPG), 5 there on 29 Dec (FG).

Great Crested Grebe counts from Ardmore Point in 2008

6 JanW 12 Jan 10 FebW 13 Feb1 9 MarW 27 Mar 6 AprW18 MayW
Ardmore Point 16 36 43 56 6 59 34 16
Clyde Estuary total * 35 54 84 97 4465 45 22
Ardmore observer DO'B IPG DO'BIPG DO'B ADW DO'BDO'B
  22 JuneW 20 JulyW17 AugW31 Aug 14 SepW 19 OctW16 NovW14 DecW
Ardmore Point 3 8 116 140 1841 84 116
Clyde Estuary total * 5 8 117 140 2087 97 146
Ardmore observer DW DO'B DO'BIPG DO'B CMW DO'BADW

* incorporating counts from elsewhere on the estuary on the same date

w WeBS count date

1 result of survey 10-13 Feb (see additional records above)

 

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus

Winter-spring reports involved 1 off Ardmore Point on 6 Jan (DO'B), 12 on 11 Jan (HS), 28 on 12 Jan (IPG), 2 on 10 Feb (DO'B), 59 on 13 Feb (IPG), 24 on 18 Feb (AKMcN), 6 on 19 Feb (GJB et al), 2 on 15-16 Mar (MMcG,ANi) ,8 on 18 Mar (IPG), 63 on 27 Mar (ADW), 7 off Cardross on 12 Jan (IPG), 3 on 16 Jan (ECD), 4 on 22 Jan (ANi), 13 on 13 Feb (IPG), 18 on 16 Mar (JBB), 10 on 27 Mar (IPG), 1 off Ironotter Point 5 Feb (ADW), 1 off Port Glasgow 10 Feb, 3 off Ardmore South Bay (viewed from Port Glasgow) at low tide on 4 Mar, an incomplete count of 8 off south side Ardmore Point 18 Mar (IPG), and 21 Cardross-Ardmore 31 Mar (ADW).

Autumn-winter reports were of 1 at Balgray Resr 8-17 Oct (JCh,JSW,VW et al), and on the Clyde estuary 2 off Ardmore Point 13 Sep (SKa), 9 off NW side Ardmore Point 1 Nov (JBB), 18 on 14 Dec, 7 off Cardross on 14 Dec (ADW), 9 on 24 Dec (JBB), 7 off Kingston, Port Glasgow on 26 Dec, and 3 off East India Harbour, Greenock on 26 Dec (IPG).

Counts at Ardmore Point and Cardross in 2008

6 JanW 12 Jan 10 FebW 13 Feb 9 MarW
Ardmore Point 128 259 0
Cardross 07013 0
Total 135 272 0
Observer DO'BIPG DO'BIPG DO'B
 27 Mar6 AprW1 Nov16 NovW14 DecW
Ardmore Point 63 69418
Cardross 10 0nc 07
Total 73 69525
Observer ADWDO'BJBB DO'B ADW
 

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

One was on Antermony Loch on 20 Dec (SLo).

 

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

Winter-spring reports included 208 Gourock Bay 6 Jan (IPG). Inland spring return involved 2 at Darleith on 19 Jan (FL), 1 Endrick Mouth 11 Feb (ANi), 5 Bardowie Loch 11 Feb, 18 on 9 Mar (AKMcN), 1 at Burntshields Pond 15 Feb (IPG), 7 Merryton/Carbarns 17 Feb, 27 on 2 Mar (AIE), 5 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 17 Feb (DAB), 3 Woodend Loch 18 Feb (CL), 3 Hogganfield Loch 21 Feb (FJM), 17 at South Medwin Pools on 1 Mar (AMcA), 39 Baron's Haugh 9 Mar (GJC), 2 Craigend Farm 12 Mar (DK), and 3 at Rowbank Resr on 20 Mar (MMcG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Balgray Reservoir 3 JVW Culter Waterhead 1JVW Knocknairshill TRS 1 IPG
Ballochruin Pool1 AKMcN Daff Reservoir 1IPG Lamington 2 JVW
Barr Loch 2 ZBDouglas Estate Pools2KS L Lomond, Inchconnachan1 AKMcN
Bennan Loch 1 JVW Douglas Water Pools1KS Loch Thom (island) 2 IPG
Biggar Moss1 JVW Dowries Farm 2IPG Lochcraig Reservoir 1 JVW
Black Cart Water SPA1 IPG Endrick Mouth 3DHMcE Lochwinnoch. Struther's 1 ZB
Bowling Oil Terminal3 JVW Faslane 1MMcG Merryton/Carbarns1 AIE
Cornalees Bridge 2 MMcG Garvald Quarry 4AMcA Powbrone Burn 1 JVW
Cornalees Farm 1 MMcG Glenmill Pond (NS339670)1IPG Rowbank/Barcraigs Resrs3 IPG
Cowgill Lower Resr 1 ECDHarelaw pig trap1JVW South Medwin Pools 1 JVW
Cowgill Upper Resr 1 ECDHelensburgh Reservoirs 1ANiSpringhill (NS8958)1 IPG
Culter Waterhead 1 ECDKaim Dam 2IPG Waulkmill Glen Resr 1 JVW

Summary: 54 pairs at 36 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) pair b/2 Barr Loch (fields) 12 May (ZB); (ii) 3 prs at Rowbank/Barcraigs Resrs, all apparently unsuccessful (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 43 Ballochruin Pool 28 June (AKMcN), 3 Woodend Loch 3 July (CL), 33 at Netherton of Glenboig Farm 11 Aug (DAB), 83 at high tide roost Ironotter Point 20 July, 76 on 14 Sep, an unusually high count of 455 feeding on Battery Park, Greenock during heavy rain on 17 Dec (IPG), 780 at Seabank Cottage on 5 Nov, and 260 at Havoc on 5 Nov (JBB).

Oystercatcher Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Newshot Is to West Ferry *3604873899414598162482371992830778
Ironotter Point/Gourock Bay243233153451818832210142149455
Gourock-Wemyss Bay15235316830173163147102231209118
Dumbarton-Craigendoran17602860168098031489515661945970125013831370
Helensburgh-Coulport1179180310873762373429851505103710111125858
Clyde Estuary Total37165836347715257311384285941012583352637273579

* (including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock)

 

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Newshot Is to West Ferry *5675323381013816341415223696531
West Ferry-Port Glasgow23472000125525535095133160
Dumbarton -Craigendoran41215900093138277210185221665
Clyde Estuary Total1435869461610266209990108055311881462

* (including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock)

Winter-spring reports included 50 Strathclyde Country Park 3 Jan (IMcC), 330 Carbarns Pool 6 Jan (AIE), 71 Millichen Flood 12 Jan (CRS), 750 in fields East Ferry 12 Jan, 600 Longhaugh Point-West Ferry 20 Jan, 650 on 29 Jan (IPG), 350 Aird Meadow 2 Jan (MAn), and 220 Barr Loch 24 Jan (ECD).

Spring return to breeding areas involved 100 Endrick Mouth 28 Jan-11 Feb (ANi), 88 Gartloch Pool 4 Feb (CRS), 460 South Medwin Pools 9 Feb (AMcA), 2 back at Craigmarloch Marsh 10‑18 Feb (IPG), 500 Barr Loch 10 Feb (PBa), 21 Darleith 12-17 Feb, 60 on 1 Mar (FL), 250 at Aird Meadow 18 Feb (RSPB), 5 at Weels Farm on 27 Feb (IPG), 40 Queenzieburn 15 Mar (CRS), a displaying ♂ Craigends Dennistoun 19 Mar (IPG), and 18 Ballochruin Pool 21 Apr (AKMcN).

Breeding summary (see table overleaf): min 98 pairs at 35 sites reported in 2008 - see following notes where some possible duplication. Supplementary notes: (i) 2 ♂♂ displaying, but no ♀♀ present, at SW end of Glasgow Airport 2 Apr (IPG); (ii) 2 ♂♂ and a ♀ on island Loch Thom 12 Apr (not there subsequently), different ♂ displaying Darndaff Moor 12 Apr (IPG); (iii) at least 3 territorial ♂♂ and 2 ♀♀ in pasture beside roundabout at Arden (NS358846) on 14 Apr (IPG); (iv) 8 territorial prs (no nests - fields recently sown and rolled) on ploughed fields Longhaugh Point 29 Apr (IPG); (v) 2 ♂♂ and 1 ♀ Reivoch-Windyhill 4 May (IPG); (vi) 4 prs Reivoch-Rashiefield subsequently moved to Rowbank Resr fields but all failed (IPG); (vii) 2 prs with young Barr Loch 12 May (ZB); (viii) pair with b/2 Barnbrock Farm 12 May (ZB); (ix) 2 prs in a sown and rolled field, opposite the entrance to Erskine Golf Club on 3 June, possibly failed birds from Longhaugh Point (IPG); (x) for second consecutive year, none bred on study site Hardridge Farm, surveyed on 7 June (IPG); (xi) although 3 prs in area of Merryton/Carbarns, no successful breeding noted (AIE).

Lapwing breeding reports (prs = apparently mated ♀♀ on territory)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Allander Toll 2 AKMcN Craigmarloch Marsh 3 IPG Loch Lomond, Arden 2 IPG
Balgray Reservoir3 JVW Douglas Estate Pools 4 KS Loch Walton 2 AKMcN
Bankbrae Farm3 IPGDouglas Water Pools 2 KS Longhaugh Point (fields)8 IPG
Barcraigs (island)1 IPGEndrick Mouth 5 AKMcNMerryton/Carbarns3 AIE
Barnbrock Farm 4 ZB Garvald Quarry 1 AMcAMillersneuk Marsh3 ADW
Barr Loch (fields)4 ZB Glasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SL Netherton of Glenboig Fm 2 DAB
Biggar Moss 12ADW Glengavel Water 3 JSW Reivoch-Rashiefield4 IPG
Bishopton Golf Club2 IPGHarestonhill Pond 3 JCM Risk Farm 1 TB
Blacketty Water/Hardridge 0 IPGHeadlesscross Farm (NS9158)1 IPG Rowbank Resr (fields) 4 IPG
Bowling Oil Terminal 1 JSW Heritage Park, East Kilbride 2 DWM South Branchal (road end) 1 AB
Buchley Pool 1 AKMcN Kirktonmoor 1 MMaclSouth Medwin Pools 7 JVW
Cleaves Fm, Houston1 IPGLennoxtown, Kinkell 1 DHMcE

Post-breeding/autumn-winter reports included 51 at Camps Resr on 12 June (LB), 24 at South Gilmourton Pools 13 June (JSW,VW), 70 Frankfield Loch 19 June, 160 on 22 July, 99 on 10 Sep (CRS), 19 Craigmarloch Marsh 22 June (IPG), 165 Strathclyde University Playing Fields 27 June (CRS), 54 on small island Barcraigs Resr and in fields at Rowbank Marsh 28 June (IPG), 150 Carbarns Pool 10 Aug, 180 on 11 Oct (AIE), 400 at West Mains, Newbigging 2 Sep, 2000 on 8 Sep (ADW), 300 Baron's Haugh 8 Sep (LMcB), 1000 at Lanark on 27 Sep (JDa), 14 at Barcraigs Resr 27 Sep, 10 on 28 Oct, 18 on 22 Nov (IPG), 300 Strathclyde Country Park 11 Oct (JCM), 500 at The Meetings 14 Oct, 1500 at South Medwin Pools on 14 Oct (JSW,VW), 137 at Millichen Flood 16 Oct (IPG), 141 on 1 Nov (JC), 60 Gartloch Pool 16 Nov (CRS), and 18 at Barnbrock Farm on 23 Nov (IPG).

Clyde estuary counts included only 450 Longhaugh Point-Langbank 19 Sep, 500 East Ferry 17 Dec (IPG). Inland winter reports included 95 Carbarns Pool 16 Nov, 126 on 21 Dec (AIE), 500 at Cart/Clyde confluence on 24 Nov (ECD), 42 at Darleith 1 Dec, 18 on 7 Dec (FL), 6 Mid Uplaw 8 Dec (JSW, VW), 120 Aird Meadow 22 Dec (RSPB), 6 Endrick Mouth 27 Dec (ANi), 249 Old Mains Farm 29 Dec (ECD), and 10 at Laigh Auchencloich 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria

Winter-spring reports included 7 Strathclyde Country Park 3 Jan (IMcC), 11 South Medwin Pools 9 Feb, and 7 there on 1 Mar (AMcA).

Breeding season reports on suitable breeding habitat were of 57 (possible passage birds) Dunside Rig 15 Apr (JBB), 3 territories Bleak Law 3 May (DT), and 9 birds on Lowther Hill 3 May (JTT).

Autumn-winter reports included 1 at Newshot Island on 19 Sep (AJR), 2 calling in flight over Cathkin Braes on 23 Sep (SAW), 1 Ardmore North Bay 26 Sep (ANi), 2 South Medwin Pools 27 Sep (JTT), max 600 there on 14 Oct, 100 on 12 Nov (JSW,VW), 1 S over Carbarns Pool 28 Sep (AIE), 20 at The Meetings on 14 Oct (JSW,VW), 18 at Arkleston, Paisley on 7 Nov (ADW), 96 at Strathclyde Loch on 11 Oct, 116 on 16 Oct (JCM), 50 on 10 Nov (JBB), and 2 on Queenside Hill on 29 Dec (CMRS).

 

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

The only reports were of 2 at Longhaugh Point on 6 Jan (JMC) and 19 Jan, and 1 on 4 Feb (ECD).

 

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Cardwell Bay-Wemyss Bay12733522432921926
Cardross Bay-Rhu Point32267126613575192176
Clyde Estuary Total44371193783781042640103

Winter-spring reports included 46 Cardross Bay 10 Jan (ANi), 4 Lamington 4 Mar (JSW,VW), 2 territorial ♂♂ and a ♀ on waste ground at Kingston Dock, Port Glasgow 9 Mar, still a pair there on 27 Mar (IPG).

Spring passage included 2 Carbarns Pool 17 Apr, 6 on 9 May (AIE), 4 on 22 June (ECD), 12 Gadloch 6 Apr (HAD), 34 Ardmore South Bay 29 Apr (IPG), and excellent counts of 120 Cardross Bay 9 May (AGG), and 116 there on 10 May (JBB).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Balgray Reservoir 1JVW Drumshangie Moss 1KHKingston Dock2IPG
Bowling Oil Terminal 2JVW Gryfe No.1 Resr 1IPG Lamington2JVW
Douglas Estate Pools2KS Ironotter Point1IPG Loch Thom 1MMcG

Ringed Plover breeding summary: 13 pairs at 9 sites in a poor level of reporting in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) the Ironotter Point pair failed, as usual, due to human disturbance (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 3 Carron Valley Resr 3 Aug (AKMcN), 53 Cardross Bay 9 Aug, 34 on 15 Sep (IPG), 15 on 26 Dec (JBB), 18 on 30 Sep, and 16 at Ironotter Point 17 Aug, 11 on 14 Sep (IPG).

 

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius

Spring reports were of two at Douglas Water Pool on various dates 4 May-5 June (DJA,AJC et al), one still on 15 June (per BS), one Carbarns Pool 7-9 May (AIE), and one at Ballochruin Pool on 21 May (RHW).

Autumn reports were of an adult and a juv at Carbarns Pool on 10 Sep (JCM), and a juv at Baron's Haugh on 12 Sep (DJA).

 

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus

Spring passage reports were of 2 on summit of Lowther Hill 29 Apr (IF), 1 on summit of Scaw'd Law 19 May (JBB), and 3 there on 20 May (CBa).

 

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

Spring passage involved a very early migrant calling at Merryton/Carbarns on 2 Mar (AIE), 1 at West Ferry 18-21 Apr, 2 on 22-23 Apr (IPG,ADW), 9 on 24 Apr, 14 West Ferry-Longhaugh Point 25 Apr, 17 on 26 Apr, max 25 on 27 Apr, 18 on 28 Apr, 20 on 29 Apr, 5 on 30 Apr, 17 on 1 May, 10 on 2 May, 2 on 3 May, 18 on 4 May (IPG), 4 on 5 May (GBro), 4 on 9 May (SPM), 1 on 27 May (ADW), 1 Ardmore South Bay 18 Apr (ANi), max 20 on 29 Apr (IPG), 1 Newshot Island 21-23 Apr (AJR), 6 Cardross Bay 26 Apr-11 May, 1 on 4-5 June (AGG), 1 SE over Langbank 29 Apr (DSF), 2 Balgray Resr 1 May (JSW,VW), 3 in field between Reivoch and Windyhill 4 May (IPG), 1 N over Lochwinnoch at 1925 hrs on 6 May (ZB), 1 Ardgowan Point 8 May (ADW), 5 at the Endrick Mouth on 10 May (AKMcN), 1 Ardmore North Bay 10 May (JBB), singles at Colgrain on 11 May and 3 June (DHMcE), and 1 at Twechar Marsh on 27 May (JJM). A possibly summering bird or early autumn migrant was in Ardmore North Bay on 22 June (ADW).

Autumn reports were 1 Cardross 23 July (JBB), 3 on 16 Aug (AGG), singles at Lunderston Bay on 24 July, 30 July and 20 Sep (FG), 1 in Ardmore South Bay 17 July (ANi), 1 on 24 July (DSF), 2 on 26 July, 2 on 31 July (JBB), 1 on 1 Aug (ANi), 1 Ardmore North Bay 26 July (JBB), 1 on 24 Aug (AKMcN), 2 at Balgray Resr 29 July (AAM,JSW,VW), 1 feeding on rocky shoreline beside public footpath at Port Glasgow (NS314750) on 17 Aug (IPG), 1 Ardmore 17 Aug (DO'B), and 1 S over Barr Loch on 20 Aug (RSPB).

 

Curlew Numenius arquata

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Erskine-West Ferry *1712203703341451339512538080250156
Gourock-Wemyss Bay75866772248515845856168
Dumbarton -Craigendoran41510965098101972359779161028230250146
Clyde Estuary Total863167310421198349394119915001716407788487

* (including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock)

The locally unique inland wintering flock at Merryton/Carbarns numbered 123 on 6 Jan, max 192 on 27 Jan, 159 on 10 Feb, and 106 on 16 Mar (AIE); another inland report was of 2 at Buchley Pool on 12 Jan (CRS). Spring return inland included 1 Millichen Flood 3 Feb, 64 South Medwin Pools 9 Feb (AMcA), 2 Bardowie Loch 11 Feb, 11 on 9 Mar (AKMcN), 1 at the Endrick Mouth on 11 Feb (ANi), 1 over Athole Gardens, Hyndland on 23 Feb (CJMcI), 19 Aird Meadow 28 Feb (RSPB), 42 on 20 Mar (MMcG), 39 Ballochruin Pool 1 Mar (AKMcN), 16 Craigend Farm 7 Mar (DK), 5 Barnbrock Farm 15 Mar, 8 on 19 Mar (IPG), 19 Netherinch 19 Mar (ADW), 106 Rowbank Resr 20 Mar (MMcG), 62 on 29 Mar (IPG), 14 Baron's Haugh 23 Mar (JCM).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Auchenfoyle Camp 1SPM Cairncurran Hill1SPM Gryfe Neuk (NS305716) 1IPG
Ballochruin Pool2AKMCowgill Loch 1JVW Kaim Dam/Weels Farm2IPG
Barnbrock Farm 1IPGCraig of Todholes1IPGLoch Ardinning 1ECD
Biggar Moss 2JVW Craigend Farm1DK Loch Walton 1AKM
Blacketty Water/Hardridge 2IPGDarleith1FL Locherwood Comm Wood1SPM
Bleak Law2DT Endrickvale 1DAB Marshall Moor 1IPG
Bowfield Moss1IPGFinnich Glen1AKMMuirhouse Muir 1AKM
Muirshiel Country Park 1CMRS Reivoch Farm 2IPG Whittliemuir 1IPG
Neilston Pad 2SPM Springhill Farm (NS8958) 3IPG
Netherton of Glenboig Farm 1DABTreesbank 1SD

Summary: 37 pairs reported from 28 sites in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 80 South Medwin Pool 2 Sep (ADW), 8 Merryton 20 Sep, 16 on 28 Sep, 148 on 28 Oct, 145 on 2 Nov, max count 154 on 21 Dec, none on 28 Dec as freezing temperatures set in (AIE), and 15 by the Allander Walkway at Baldernock on 28 Nov (JMu).

 

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica

Winter-spring reports were of 1 Cardross Bay 4 Jan, 5 on 16 Mar, 23 Ardmore North Bay 5 Jan (JBB), 12 on 12 Jan (JDo), 27 on 27 Jan (ANi), 23 on 13 Feb (IPG), 3 on 4 Mar (HAD), 2 on 13 Mar (JDo), 3 on 19 May (AKMcN), 3 Longhaugh Point 4 Feb (ECD), 2 Ardmore South Bay 18 Mar (IPG), and an exceptionally high count of 46 at Ardmore on 9 Mar (DO'B).

Autumn-winter reports involved 2 Ardmore South Bay 23 July (HS), 1 on 31 July, 3 on 19 Aug (HS), 12 on 22 Aug, 1 on 29 Aug (ANi), 6 Ardmore North Bay 31 July (JBB), 4 on 9 Aug (IPG), 1 on 24 Aug (AKMcN), 1 on 30 Aug (LMcB), 2 on 9 Sep (JBB), 4 on 23 Sep (DSF), 9 on 1 Nov, 12 on 14 Dec, a juv West Ferry on 11 Sep and 17 Sep (IPG), 1 at Lunderston Bay on 12 Sep, 20 Sep and 22 Sep (FG), 2 at Havoc, Dumbarton 15 Sep (IPG), 3 at Seabank Cottage 5 Nov, and 1 Cardross Bay on 5 Dec, 17 on 24 Dec, 1 on 26 Dec (JBB).

 

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa

Monthly minimum numbers reported

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
3 3 1 42 1 0 12 57 28 4 0 0

Early year winter reports were of 3 at the East Ferry high tide sub-roost on 29 Jan (IPG), 1 at Erskine shore on 30 Jan, 3 on 7 Feb (SL), 3 on 11 Feb (AJR), 3 on 14 Feb (WB), 2 in field across M8 from West Ferry 1 Feb (DSF), and 1 at Longhaugh Point on 4 Feb (ECD).

Spring passage began unusually early with an adult in breeding plumage at Crom Mhin, Endrick Mouth on 17 Mar (IF), thereafter during the usual period 6 at Erskine shore on 8 Apr (GJB,WB), 1 Carbarns Pool 11 Apr (AIE), 5 West Ferry 11 Apr (ADW), possibly same 5 on west side Longhaugh Point 22 Apr (IPG), 1 Carbarns Pool 11 Apr (DJA), 12 on Erskine shore 13 Apr (JBB), 2 Newshot Island 23 Apr (AJR), max 20 Longhaugh Point-West Ferry 24 Apr, 10 on 25 Apr, 12 on 26 Apr (IPG), 3 on 28 Apr (FH), 5 on 29 Apr (IPG,KMcC), 3 on 30 Apr (IPG), and an imm (1st-summer) bird at Bridgend Farm Pool on 7-8 May (ADW,KH).

Autumn passage involved 12 breeding-plumaged adults at Longhaugh Point on 6 July (IPG), 6 at Baron's Haugh 1-2 Aug (DJA), 1 on 17 Aug (SL), 7 on 19-21 Aug, 10 on 22-24 Aug (GJB,SK), max 12 on 26-28 Aug (DLC,IF,JTK), 11 on 30 Aug (JJM), 9 on 31 Aug (GS), second peak of 12 on 1 Sep (CJMcI), 3 on 2-5 Sep (GJB, WB et al), 1 on 7-8 Sep (GS), 2 on 12-20 Sep (GJB,SJM et al), 1 Carbarns Pool 8 Aug (DJA), 2 juvs Newshot Island 14 Aug (IPG), 1 on 5 Oct (AJR), 1 in Ardmore North Bay 14 Aug (ECD), 1 on 19 Aug, 1 at Ardencaple 15 Aug (HS), 3 juvs Longhaugh Point 15 Aug, 1 on 17 Aug and on 27 Aug, 5 on 31 Aug, 3 on 12 Sep, 2 on 24 Sep, 4 on 26 Sep (IPG), 5 Cardross 16 Aug (AGG), max 20 at Millichen Flood on 22 Aug (DLC), 19 on 23 Aug (JC), 6 on 25 Aug (AKMcN), 2 on Erskine shore 26 Aug (GJB,WB), 3 there 12-17 Sep (WB,ECD,IPG), 2 on 20 Sep (FH), 3 on 23 Sep (ECD), 3 on 6 Oct (IPG), 1 at West Ferry on 2 Sep, 3 on 6 Sep (IPG), max 6 on 13 Sep (ADW), 4 at Milton Island high tide roost 14 Sep (JSW,VW), 1 feeding on grass playing fields at Havoc on 15 Sep (IPG), and 2 W over RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Centre at 1630 hrs on 18 Sep (JMcM).

 

Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Winter-spring reports included 3 Gourock Bay 6 Jan, 9 on 12 Jan, 5 on 29 Jan (IPG), 43 on shore at Ardencaple 13 Jan (HS), 15 Craigendoran Pier 21 Jan (ANi), 53 Lunderston Bay 10 Feb (FG), 36 on Helensburgh shore 9 Mar (DHMcE), 1 Cardross Bay 21-23 May (JCM), 2 at Ardmore on 29 May (ANi).

Turnstone Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Cardwell Bay to Wemyss Bay1753190000812191529
Helensburgh to Rhu117359500003234171453
Rhu to Coulport1728030000155018
Clyde Estuary Total45154785300040614129100

Autumn-winter reports involved 1 Erskine shore 7 Aug (ECD), 8 on Kidston shore, Helensburgh 14 Aug, 14 on 15 Aug (HS), 1 Ironotter Point 17 Aug (IPG), 2 Gourock Bay 23 Aug (ADW), 7 on 28 Aug, 9 on 14 Sep, 12 on 28 Sep, 19 on 19 Oct, 21 on 17 Dec (IPG), and 3 at Ardmore Point on 29 Aug (ANi).

 

Knot Calidris canutus

The only winter-spring report was of 1 at Ardmore North Bay 5- 9 Mar (JBB,DO'B).

Autumn-winter reports involved 4 in Ardmore North Bay on 19 July (AKMcN), 2 on 31 July (JBB), 9 on 14 Aug (ECD), 5 on 19 Aug, 6 on 22 Aug (HS), 11 on 9 Sep (JBB), max 12 on 10 Sep, 1 on 26 Sep (ANi), 1 at West Ferry 17 Aug (JMC), 1 (juv) on 31 Aug (IPG), 2 Erskine shore 30 Aug (JBB), 1 Newshot Island 19 Sep (AJR), and 1 Lunderston Bay 23 Sep (FG).

 

Ruff Calidris pugnax

Spring passage birds were a ♂ in breeding plumage Longhaugh Point 30 Apr (IPG), a ♀ Bridgend Farm Pool 8 May (KH), and a ♀ at a pool at North Myvot (NS743719) on 10 May (JJM).

Very scarce in autumn, following trend of recent years, perhaps only six individuals: 1 at West Ferry on 17 Aug (JMC), 1 at Baron's Haugh 24 Aug (GS), 2 on 26 Aug (DLC,JTK), 1 from 28 Aug-3 Sep (IF,GJB et al), 1 on Erskine shore 14-17 Sep (WB), and 2 at Newshot Island on 19 Sep (AJR).

 

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea

One was in Ardmore North Bay on 1 Oct (JBB). Inland, one was at Baron's Haugh on 10 Oct (DJA), and at Carbarns Pool 12-14 Oct (DJA,GJB et al).

 

Sanderling Calidris alba

One was in Inverkip Bay on 22 Aug (FG).

 

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Erskine to Port Glasgow *15152004012333100107
Greenock to Cardwell Bay000000000000
Dumbarton-Rhu47315784891062714178823
Clyde Estuary Total724270998131193148287936

Winter-spring reports included 100 Newshot Island 6 Jan, 61 on 10 Feb (ACMB), 55 at Rivers Cart/Clyde confluence 10 Jan (ECD), 45 at roost there 6 Feb (GTW), 105 Kelburn 26 Jan (DSF), 146 Erskine 29 Jan (DSF), 300 Rhu 19 Feb (JBB). Spring passage involved 4 Milton Island 26 Apr, 18 Ardmore South Bay 29 Apr (IPG), 95 Cardross Bay 9 May (AGG), and 33 on 10 May (JBB).

The only breeding season report was of a pair present at Douglas Estate middle pool May-July (KS).

Autumn-winter reports included 4 Cardross 31 July, 6 on 9 Aug (JBB), 2 Ardmore North Bay 17 July (ANi), 14 on 5 Aug (JBB), 8 on 9 Aug (IPG), 12 on 19 Aug (ANi), 6 on 29 Aug (IPG), 10 on 9 Sep (JBB), 15 on 11 Sep (ANi), 130 on 10 Dec (ECD), 100 on 26 Dec (JBB), 4 Erskine shore 29 Aug, 3 on 12 Sep, 1 Longhaugh Point 2 Sep, 300 on 2 Nov (IPG), and 2 Lunderston Bay 22 Sep (FG).

Inland autumn reports were of 2 Baron's Haugh 18 Aug, 3 on 26 Aug (JCM), 1 Carbarns Pool 19 Oct (AIE), and 1 at Endrick Mouth on 6 Oct (per JJM).

 

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima

One was at Wemyss Point on 14 Dec (FG).

 

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola

Winter-spring reports involved 1 R Calder at Lochwinnoch 2 Jan (IPG), 1 Gleddoch Golf Course 2 Jan, 1 at Knockmountain 3 Jan (DSF), 5 Linburn wood 3 Jan (ACMB), 3 Barscube Hill 6 Jan, 1 on 13 Jan, 3 on 20 Jan, 4 on 22 Jan and 2 Feb, 3 on 18 Feb, 2 on 4 Mar, 3 on 9 Mar (DSF), 2 flighting at dusk (1702 hrs) East Candrens, Paisley 11 Jan (IPG), 1 Darleith 12 Jan (FL), 2 Brownside Braes, Paisley 12 Jan, 1 on 20 Jan, 1 on 1 Mar (SJM), 3 Linwood Moss 14 Jan, 6 on 14 Feb, 2 on 27 Feb (DSF), 1 in woods at Park Mains High School, Erskine on 19 Jan (ACMB), 1 over Risk Bridge, Howwood 23 Jan (MMcG), 3 Mugdock Country Park 26 Jan (GJC), 8 Garadhban Forest 30 Jan (ABur), 1 Gleddoch Golf Course 1 Feb, 3 on 15 Feb (DSF), 1 Aird Meadow 2 Feb (MAn), 1 Crawfordjohn 2 Feb (JDa), 3 Broadwood Loch 2 Feb (per JJM), 1 Muirshiel Country Park 10 Feb (CMRS), 4 Craigmarloch Marsh 16 Feb (DSF), 1 in reedbed Newshot Island 19 Feb (ECD), 5 at Ladymuir Forest 2 Mar (DSF), 1 at Blythswood, Renfrew 6 Mar (ECD), 1 North Haugh, Hamilton 11 Mar (IL), 1 by riverside Pollok Country Park 16 Mar (SPM), and 1 at Merryton on 16 Mar (AIE).

Breeding season reports involved single birds roding at Barscube Hill on 1 Apr, and at Corsliehill Wood on 5 May (DSF). Thought to be significantly under-recorded (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports were of singles at Baron's Haugh on 10 Oct and 30 Nov (JCM), 1 at High Auchensail Woods 3 Nov (FL), 1 Lyles Hill 3 Nov, 2 Heathfield Farm 4 Nov (CMRS), 1 at Ferguslie Park 4 Nov (GTW), 1 Linburn Farm 9 Nov (ACMB), 1 Darleith 11 Nov-10 Dec (FL), 1 killed on window Helensburgh 13 Nov (JMo), 1 across B832 Arden 1630 hrs on 28 Nov (DHMcE), 1 Duchal Wood 29 Nov (IPG), 1 feeding in a Barrhead garden 30 Nov (PHB,DLC), 6 Barscube Hill 30 Nov, 1 on 24 Dec (DSF), 1 Bowfield, Howwood 6 Dec (GBro), 2 at roadside Muirshiel Country Park 6 Dec (ZB), 1 Midross 8 Dec (ANi), 1 Millichen Flood 8 Dec (CRS), 1 Waulkmill Glen 11 Dec (RB), 2 at Park Quay, Newshot Island LNR 12 Dec, 3 Mistylaw Muir 14 Dec (ECD), 1 Brownside Braes 14 Dec (SJM), 1 at Lochwinnoch RSPB car park 20 Dec (RSPB), 1 Knapps Loch 22 Dec (AB), 2 at Gryfe No.1 Resr 22 Dec, 2 Knockmountain 26 Dec (DSF), 1 Merryton 28 Dec (AIE), 2 Ross Priory 28 Dec (MH,BH), 1 Linwood Moss 29 Dec (DSF), and 1 at High Barfod on 31 Dec (MMcG).

 

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus

Monthly minimum numbers reported

JanFeb MarApr Sep Oct NovDec
19 40 29 1010 10 10

Winter-spring reports were of 1 in marsh at Thirdpart Hall, Howwood 3 Jan (IPG), 3 at Barscube Hill 6 Jan, 1 on 13-22 Jan, 1 on 9 Mar (DSF), 1 Crom Mhin 7 Jan (IF), 1 feeding in ditch at Millichen Flood on 12 Jan (CRS), 1 Ardmore Point 12 Jan (JDo), 1 Linwood Moss 14 Jan (DSF), 10 Windlaw Marsh 20 Jan, 1 on 27 Jan, 10 on 24 Feb, spring max 12 on 16 Mar, 6 on 23 Mar (IL et al), 1 Paisley Moss LNR 29 Jan (ECD), 1 in marsh beside Black Cart Water at Barnsford Bridge 2 Feb, nearby 12 in marsh beside Black Cart Water at Rolls Royce factory on 4 Feb, 8 on 10 Feb, 7 on 14 Feb (GTW), 1 Newshot Island 10 Feb (ACMB), 1 Littleton Resr 13 Feb, 2 on 11 Mar (JSW,VW), 3 at South Haugh, Hamilton Low Parks 15 Feb (AJC), 1 at Longhaugh Point 15 Feb (ECD), 1 beside Black Cart Water at Yonderton 16 Feb (WB), 9 Craigmarloch Marsh, Kilmacolm 18 Feb, 4 on 28 Mar (ADW), 1 Hogganfield Park LNR (marsh) 23 Feb, 3 on 6 Mar, 2 on 17 Mar, 1 on 4 Apr (CRS), 1 near Harelaw Resr 4 Mar (SJM), 1 Possil Marsh 12 Mar (TPD), 1 in marsh at Lower Carbarns 21 Mar (DJA), 4 Loch Libo 22 Mar (SJE), and 1 at Paisley Moss LNR on 2 Apr (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports involved 1 at Black Cart Water SPA on 16 Oct, 2 on 22 Oct, 2 on 4 Nov (GTW), 2 at Lower Carbarns 19 Oct (DJA), 1 Windlaw Marsh on 19 Oct and 21 Oct (IL), 3 on 31 Oct (SAW), 5 on 9 Nov, 5 on 23 Nov (IL), max 6 on 25 Nov (IPG,CRS), 4 on 20 Dec (CRS), 5 on 24 Dec (IPG), 2 Gadloch 21 Oct (JJM), 1 Brownside Braes 26 Oct (SJM), 1 Crom Mhin 4 Nov, 1 on 26 Dec, 1 on 29 Dec (IF), 1 Hogganfield Marsh 18 Nov (CRS), 3 Littleton Resr 11 Dec (JSW,VW), and 1 on Erskine Shore 14 Dec (PB).

 

Snipe Gallinago gallinago

Clyde Estuary count totals (WeBS per JSW,VW)

Jan FebMar Apr May June July Aug SepOctNov Dec
6644 33 0 0 0 1 14 15 19 90 71

Winter-spring reports included 17 in marsh at Thirdpart Hall, Howwood 3 Jan (IPG), 57 at Newshot Island on 6 Jan (ACMB), 22 on stubble Bishopton 16 Jan (DSF), 30 Windlaw Marsh 20 Jan (IL et al), 28 in marsh within the Black Cart Water SPA at Rolls Royce factory 4 Feb, 18 on 14 Feb (GTW), 20 Cardross Bay 6 Feb (ANi), 45 Craigmarloch Marsh 18 Feb, 52 on 28 Mar (ADW), 17 Paisley Moss LNR 3 Mar, 8 on 2 Apr (IPG), 50 Littleton Resr 11 Mar (JSW,VW), 15 Loch Libo 22 Mar (SJE), and 6 at Newshot Island on 4 June (ECD).

Breeding reports (prs = mainly territorial pairs or 'drumming' birds)

SitePrs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Barscube Hill 2DSF Duchal Moor (NS307660) 1 IPGMillersneuk Marsh 1 ADW
Bennan Loch 1JVWEndrick Mouth 1 AKMcN Muirhead Burn (NS4058) 1 IPG
Bleak Law 1DT Kaim Dam (bog) 1 IPGPicketlaw Reservoir1 MMacl
Colgrain 1DHMcELochcraig Reservoir 1 JVW Reivoch Farm (S) 1 IPG
Craigend Farm3DK Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 1 RSPBReivoch Marsh2 IPG
Daff Reservoir1IPG Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 3 ZB Rowbank Marsh 2 IPG
Drumgrain Moss1JVWLyles Hill 1 CMRSWindyhill1 IPG

Summary: 28 pairs reported from 21 sites in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first territorial call ('chipping') heard Windyhill 29 Mar (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 53 at Biggar Moss 31 Aug (JTT), 30 at Baron's Haugh on 3 Sep (SK) and on 17 Sep, 50 on 20 Sep (JCM), 10 Endrick Mouth 5 Sep (ANi), 25 on Black Cart Water SPA opposite Wester Yonderton on 18 Sep (IPG), only 8 (and no Jack Snipe) at Paisley Moss on 28 Oct (IPG), 23 Windlaw Marsh 31 Oct (SAW), max 45 on 9 Nov (IL), 21 on 25 Nov (IPG,CRS), 24 on 20 Dec (CRS), 15 on 24 Dec (IPG), 65 flushed by male Hen Harrier on Aird Meadow at 0930 hrs on 2 Nov (RSPB), 64 at Newshot Island and 24 at Erskine harbour on 16 Nov (ACMB), 70 at Littleton Reservoir 18 Nov, 26 on 11 Dec (JSW,VW), and 26 at Colin's Isle, Renfrew on 9 Dec (ECD).

 

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Spring arrival/passage reports included 1 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 8 Apr (DAB), 1 by River Clyde at Carbarns 11 Apr (DJA), 1 at Hogganfield Loch 13 Apr (TPD), 1 on River Clyde at Dalmarnock 14 Apr (CRS), 1 on Endrick Water near Balfron 15 Apr (GJB), 3 Erskine 16 Apr (DSF), 3 Ballochruin Pool 21 Apr (AKMcN), 1 at Gryfe No.1 Resr 22 Apr (SJM), 1 Rowardennan 24 Apr (IF), and 2 at West Ferry on 26 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Balgray Reservoir1SAWEndrick Mouth 1DHMLoch Lomond, Milarrochy1MMcG
Ballochruin Pool 2AKMGlenbuck Reservoir 1RJH Loch Lomond, Sallochy 1ECD
Barcraigs Reservoir (Renf part) 2IPGGlengavel Water 3JVW Loch Thom (part) 2IPG
Bein Glas1ECD Gryfe No.1 Reservoir 1FG Lochwinnoch, River Calder 1MA
Black Burn 1RJH Kaim Dam 1IPGMonks Water (NS7729) 1IPG
Calder Water, Lyles Hill-Muirshiel4IPGKip Water 1FG Netherton of Glenboig Farm1DAB
Carron Valley Reservoir2AKMLadymuir Reservoir 1ECD Newshot Island 1ECD
Crook Burn2RJH Langholm3JVW Pilmuir Dam 1JVW
Culter Waterhead Reservoir 3JVW Loch Arklet 1ECD Powbrone Burn3JVW
Daff Reservoir1IPGLoch Lomomd, Inveruglas 1ECD Waulkmill Glen Reservoir1DLC
Douglas Estate Pools2KS Loch Lomond, Firkin 2DHMWhite Cart Water at Linn Park 1SAW

Summary: 51 pairs at 33 sites reported in 2008.

Post-breeding/autumn passage reports included 10 at Newshot Island 7 July (AJR), 3 on 25 Aug (ECD), 5 at Finlaystone Point 14 July, 2 at Parklea on 21 Aug (DSF), 7 Loch Thom 18 July (MMcG), 2 at West Ferry on 24 Aug, 1 Bowling Harbour 29-30 Aug (IPG,JBB), 3 Hogganfield Loch 2 Sep (GS), and 1 remaining at Littleton Resr on 17 Sep (JSW,VW).

 

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus

Winter reports were of 1 at Carbarns Pool on 2 Jan (DJA), still there 11 Mar-17 Apr (GJB,IF et al), nearby presumed same 1 at Merryton on 4 Apr (AIE), 2 birds together on the Black Cart Water at Howwood on 3 Jan (IPG), and 1 at South Medwin Pools on 6 Feb and 9 Feb (JSW,VW,AMcA).

Autumn passage involved an estimated 11 birds in 2008: 1 at West End sand quarry, Carnwath on 1 July (JND), 1 at Chapel Farm Pond on 1 July (IPG), 1 in the channel between Ryat/Littleton Reservoirs on 5 July (SPM), 22 Aug, 30 Aug, 9 Sep, 19 Sep (JSW,VW), presumed same 1 Balgray Resr 21 Aug (JJS), 1 at Douglas Estate middle pond 18 July (IPG), 2 Baron's Haugh 1 Aug (DJA,RSPB), 1 on 17 Aug (per BS), 2 on 21 Aug (SK), 3 on 22-26 Aug (SK,DLC,JTK,GS), 1 on 28 Aug (IF), 2 on 30 Aug, 2 on 1- 3 Sep (CJMcI,GJB,WB), 2 on 15 Sep (SMcC), 3 on 16 Sep (GJB, WB), 2 on 20 Sep (AH), 1 on 24 Sep (JCM), 1 at South Medwin Pools on 11 Aug (JSW,VW), 1 Upper Carbarns Pond 23 Aug (AIE), 1 Newshot Island 24-27 Aug (JJS et al), 1 at Ballochruin Pool 30 Aug (RAB), 2 Merryton 11 Oct, and 1 at Merryton/Carbarns 12-19 Oct (AIE).

Wintering birds were 2 beside the River Clyde at Lamington 12 Nov, one at South Medwin Pools 12 Nov (JSW,VW,PHB), 2 at Baron's Haugh 20 Nov (AWR), 1 on 7 Dec (JCM), one at Littleton Resr 24 Dec (PHB,DLC, JSW,VW), 1 Merryton 28 Dec (AIE), and 1 Croftamie 28 Dec (AS).

 

Redshank Tringa totanus

Winter-spring reports included on the Clyde Estuary 205 at Colin's Isle 3 Jan, 135 on 6 Mar (ECD), 330 Newshot Island 6 Jan (ACMB), 290 Kelburn 26 Jan, 320 on 10 Mar (DSF), 143 at roost Cart/Clyde confluence 6 Feb (GTW), only 4 feeding at low tide Longhaugh Point-West Ferry/Dumbarton Rock (where formerly thousands Mar-Apr) on 4 Mar (IPG), 9 Erskine Harbour 27 Apr (PB), 6 on 28 Apr (IPG); and inland 2 Carbarns Pool 6 Jan, 2 on 19 Mar, 2 on 4‑16 Apr (AIE), 6 feeding at Carlyle Quay, Paisley on 6 Feb, 12 on 15 Feb (GTW), 10 Ballochruin Pool 16 Mar, 8 on 5 Apr, 7 on 13 Apr, 5 on 21 Apr, 7 on 10 May (AKMcN), 1 at Aird Meadow on 17 Mar and on 27 Apr (RSPB), 2 Bridgend Farm Pool 19 Mar, 10 there on 7 Apr (AW), 4 at Endrick Mouth 24 Mar (AKMcN), and 3 at Baron's Haugh on 12 Apr (JCM).

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Newshot Island to West Ferry*84750465080001124337162465513001018
West Ferry to Newark Castle258563155002042539013559110
Port Glasgow to Gourock Bay162667250001549764242
Dumbarton to Craigendoran37236332473238426061313483352
Clyde Estuary Total15451065113410956196068561376145919651575

* (including Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock)

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ballochruin Pool 3AKMcN Douglas Estate Pools 5 KS Muirhouse Sand Quarry 1 AKMcN
Bennan Loch1JVW Douglas Water Pools 2 KS South Medwin Pools 1 JVW
Biggar Moss 2JVW Endrick Mouth 3 AKMcNTwechar Marsh 3 ADW
Bridgend Farm Pool 3IPG Loch Walton 1 AKMcN
Carron Valley Reservoir1 AKMCN Millersneuk Marsh 1 ADW

Summary: 27 pairs at 13 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) single bird on shore of Compensation Resr at Cornalees Farm (former breeding site) on 3 May (IPG); (ii) 6 birds Bridgend Farm Pool 13 May, 2 at Twechar Marsh 13 May (IPG); (iii) 19 Newshot Island 6 May (ECD).

Autumn-winter reports included 176 at the Cart/Clyde confluence on 20 July, 177 on 13 Oct (ECD), 85 in Cardross Bay 9 Aug, 390 Erskine shore 29 Aug, 450 on 12 Sep, 40 Cardwell Bay 31 Aug, 42 on 17 Dec (IPG), 489 Finlaystone Point 9 Sep (DSF), and 390 at Parklea 12 Sep (IPG).

Inland reports were of 1 Hogganfield Loch 30 July (CRS), 3 Baron's Haugh 18 Sep, 1 on 30 Nov (JCM), and 1 at Carbarns Pool 2-16 Nov (AIE).

 

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Spring passage reports were of 1 at Douglas Water Pool on 6 May (ACa), 2 at Ballochruin Pools on 17 May (RHW), and 1 at Carbarns Pool 20-21 June (DJA). None reported in autumn.

 

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus

The regular bird was reported at Newshot Island on 11 Jan, 19-20 Jan, 24 Feb (ECD), 25 Feb (AWR), 16 Mar (ECD), 18 Mar (GJB et al), 27 Mar (ECD), 14 Apr (AJR), and presumably the same bird in full breeding plumage at Erskine Harbour on 27 Apr (PB), still in breeding plumage at Newshot Island on 7 July (AJR), then seen again on 3 Sep (per BG) and on 24 Dec (AGG).

 

Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Newshot Island to Erskine321100011000
Erskine to West Ferry000200000100
Langbank to Newark Castle150000508300
Milton Island to Dumbarton Rock000000000000
Clyde Estuary Total471500519400

An unusual inland winter record was of one at the west end of Gryfe No.1 Resr on 3 Jan (FG). Winter reports on the Clyde estuary (Jan-Mar, see also table above) involved 1+ overwintering at Newshot Island at least until 10 Apr (ECD,AJR et al), 3 there on 6 Jan (ACMB), 2 on 19-20 Jan, on 10 Feb, 19-20 Feb, 27 Mar (ACMB,ECD) and on 10 Apr (AJR), 1 at Cardross Bay on 11 Jan (IPG), 2 on 22 Jan (GJB), 1 on 2 Feb and 4 Mar (JBB), 1 on River Cart at Colin's Isle 20‑21 Feb, presumed same 1 at Cart/Clyde confluence 25 Feb (ECD), 1 at Parklea on 10 Mar and 28 Mar (DSF), and 1 on Erskine shore 18 Mar (GJB).

Spring passage reports were of 2 Carbarns Pool 4-5 Apr (AIE), 1 Newshot Island 6 Apr, 2 on 10 Apr (ACMB, AJR), 1 Aird Meadow 4 Apr (RSPB), 1 heard calling on shore east end Langbank at 2105 hrs on 4 Apr (IPG), an adult in breeding plumage Balgray Resr 7 Apr (JSW, VW), 4 adults at Ward Pond, Endrick Mouth 12 Apr, 1 Ballochruin Pool 16 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Gadloch 20 Apr (BZ), and 2 at Douglas Estate mid pond 22 Apr (JBB).

The first autumn report from the Clyde estuary was of 8 adults at Finlaystone Point on 1 July (IPG), followed by 5 on 22 July (JGT), 7 on 9 Sep (DSF), max count only 8 on 12 Sep (IPG), 1 on 20 Oct (DSF), 1 Cardross Bay 20 July, 1 on 26 Dec, 1 at Ardmore South Bay 26 July, 1 Ardmore North Bay 31 July, 1 on 5 Aug (JBB), 1 on 9 Aug (IPG), 1 on 14 Aug, 1 Erskine shore 7 Aug (ECD), 1 on 30 Aug (JBB), 1 at Newshot Island on 17 Aug (WB), 1 on 22 Aug (AJR), 1 on 24-25 Aug (JJS), 2 on 26 Aug (FH), 3 on 29 Aug (AJR), 1 on 3 Sep (ECD), 2 on 8 Sep (AJR), 2 on 12 Sep (FH), 1 on 14 Sep (ACMB), 1 on 19 Sep (AJR), 1 on 21 Oct (ECD), 1 on 26 Oct (AJR), 1 on 16 Nov (ACMB), 1 on 24 Dec (AGG), 2 Parklea 3 Sep (DSF), 8 Langbank 12 Sep (IPG), 1 at Erskine Harbour 15 Sep (IPG), 1 on 10 Dec and 20 Dec (ECD), 1 West Ferry 24 Sep (IPG), 1 at Leven Mouth on 16 Nov (JSW,VW), 1 Parklea 24 Nov (DO'B), and 1 at Colin's Isle, River Cart 11 Dec (ECD).

Inland autumn passage was rather sparse in 2008, with reports only of 1 Balgray Resr 16 July (RB), 1 at Baron's Haugh 18-19 Aug, 3 on 26 Aug (JCM), 1 on 31 Aug (GS), 1 heard Carbarns Pool 31 Aug (AIE), and 1 on the Black Cart Water at Wester Yonderton on 18 Sep (IPG).

Reports of wintering birds in Nov-Dec (see also table above) included one inland at Chapel Farm Pool on 21 Nov (IPG), 1 at Newshot Island on 16 Nov (ACMB) and 24 Dec (AGG), 1 at Leven mouth on 16 Nov (JSW,VW), 1 at Erskine Harbour 10 Dec, 1 on River Cart at Colin's Isle 11 Dec (ECD), and 1 at Cardross on 26 Dec (JBB).

 

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla

Winter-spring reports included 6 W during a westerly gale past Ironotter Point between 1700-1715 hrs on 29 Feb, 9 adults off Greenock Esplanade on 9 Mar, 2 (adult and 1st-w) near the Captyannis on 27 Mar, an imm W past West Ferry at 1850 hrs on 24 Apr, and 2 feeding off Cloch Point 10 May, and 2 S on 5 Aug (IPG). Inland, one was at Carbarns Pool on 12 Apr (DJA).

Autumn-winter reports included 2 S past Cloch Point on 5 Aug, 7 N and 3 S/1hr (all singles) on 19 Aug, 4 N and 26 S/½hr on 28 Aug, 5 E then returned W past Whiteforeland Point at 1830 hrs on 24 Aug, 17 feeding with a flock of 140 Manx Shearwaters off Wemyss Bay on 27 Aug, 22 on 28 Aug, 24 on 6 Sep, 20 on 19 Sep, and 7 N and 2 S/1hr past Wemyss Point on 11 Sep, 7 N/1hr on 17 Sep (IPG).

 

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus

Winter-spring reports included 2,200 at the Strathclyde Loch roost on 13 Jan (CJMcI), 5,000 there on 19 Jan (JJS), a carefully estimated 35,100 (possible record Scottish count) heading to roost west past West Ferry from 1445-1655 hrs on 20 Jan, 21,200 W between 1530-1700 hrs on 16 Feb, 12,600 W between 1615-1715 hrs on 17 Feb (IPG), 212 Millichen Flood 25 Jan (AKMcN), 3,500 Carbarns Pool 27 Jan (AIE), 1,500 at Newshot Island 7 Feb (JBB), 450 Hogganfield Loch 8 Feb (CRS), 8,000 feeding at low tide Longhaugh Point-Langbank (both sides of the estuary) at 1720 hrs on 4 Mar (IPG), 500 Balgray Resr 15 Apr (JSW,VW), and 428 at Daer Resr on 23 Apr (JBB).

Breeding reports

Colony site Pairs/nests Obs Colony site Pairs/nests Obs
Barcraigs Resr (Ayrshire) none IPGGartloch Pool (south)25 nests IPG
Barscube Hill30 nests DSFHarelaw Dam, Neilston 545 nests JVW
Biggar Moss 4 nests JVW Carron Valley Reservoir 200 pairs AKMcN
Cowgill Loch 206 nests JVW

Breeding summary: 1,010 pairs reported from six colonies, an apparent decrease of 15% at colonies also reported in 2007 (ed.). Supplementary notes: (i) 545 nests counted at Harelaw Dam on 12 May, 300 juvs on 9 July (JSW); (ii) first fledged juvenile seen at Barcraigs Reservoir (not a breeding site in 2008) on 3 July (IPG); (iii) min 30 prs Barscube Hill reared 12-15 juvs (DSF).

Autumn-winter reports included 400 aerial feeding Dumbuck 23 July (DHMcE), 4,100 feeding at low tide between Erskine saltmarsh-West Ferry on 17 Aug (IPG), 550 Carbarns Pool 19 Oct (AIE), 200 at Rouken Glen Park Pond 28 Oct (JMcO), 530 Hogganfield Loch 18 Nov (CRS), and 1,000 at the Dalmuir sewage outflow on 26 Dec (ECD).

 

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus

Reports were of an adult south past Cloch Point on 27 July (MMcG), and a 2nd-w imm feeding at the head of Loch Long off Peaton Layo on 11 Jan (IPG).

 

Mediterranean Gull Ichthyaetus melanocephalus

Winter-spring reports were of an adult feeding at sewage outflow Ironotter Point 6 Jan (IPG,GT), a 2nd-w bird at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 19 Jan (JJS), 27 Jan (CJMcI), 9 Feb (KH) and on 10 Feb (JJS), an adult on 12 Feb (JBB), a 1st-w on 2-6 Mar (CJMcI,JBB), and a 1st-w bird with red colour ring (from eastern Europe) on 14 Mar (KH).

Autumn-winter reports involved an adult on the Erskine shore on 17 Aug and 24 Aug (WB), an adult briefly at Baron's Haugh on 24 Aug (DJA), a winter adult Strathclyde Loch 5 Oct (CJMcI), at roost on 16 Nov (DJA), an adult over Knoxland Square towards the Leven mouth, Dumbarton at 1400 hrs on 30 Nov (DG), an adult at Dalmuir sewage works on 27 Dec (JJS), and possibly same adult at Havoc at 1550 hrs on 27 Dec (JBB).

 

Common Gull Larus canus

Winter-spring reports included ca 600 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 6 Jan (IPG), 1,900 at Strathclyde Loch roost on 13 Jan (CJMcI), 1,200 on 19 Jan (JJS), an exceptional 5,300 at roost off Cardross on 11 Jan (IPG), 250 at Carbarns Pool 27 Jan (AIE), 300 Craigend Farm, Strathblane 28 Jan (AKMcN), 215 on playing field at India Drive, Inchinnan 29 Jan (IPG), 800 Glengoyne 3 Feb (AKMcN), 170 in field Priestside Farm, Kilmacolm 2 Mar (IPG), 400 in fields Lunderston Bay 13 Mar (JSW,VW), and 185 in a field spread with slurry Crossflat Farm, Howwood 25 Mar (IPG). “Strong spring passage” noted in West Dunbartonshire, with 300 at Drymen Bridge on 2 Mar, 100 Ardoch 14 Mar, 150 Colgrain 16 Mar, and 500 at Ardmore on 6 Apr (DHMcE).

Breeding reports

Colony site Pairs/nests ObsColony site Pairs/nests Obs
Barcraigs Resr (Ayrshire islet)1 nestIPG Loch Lomomd, Firkin 4 pairs DHMcE
Bennan Loch3 nests JVWLoch Lomond, Inchcailloch25 pairs AKMcN
Bowling Oil Terminal 3 nests JVWLoch Lomond, Inchmoan 2 pairs AKMcN
Camps Reservoir 15 nests LBLoch Thom (island) 11 nests IPG
Carron Valley Reservoir2 nests AC-C Muirhouse Sand Quarry 2 pairs AKMcN
Culter Waterhead Reservoir1 nestJVWPicketlaw Reservoir1 pairJVW
Kaim Dam 7 nests IPG Springhill (compound) 1 pairIPG
Loch Arklet1 pair ECD

Common Gull breeding summary: 79 pairs reported from 15 colonies in 2008. Supplementary notes included: (i) a pair, one on a nest, on the small island in Barcraigs Resr (Ayrshire part) on 4 May, apparently with at least one young, mobbing crows and an Osprey on 21 June, but no birds 23 June so presumably failed (IPG); (ii) 11 on nests Loch Thom island 8 May, all nests and eggs allegedly destroyed by anglers following drop in water level by 15 June, pair on small rocky islet reared 2 young (IPG); (iii) 7 nests on structures Kaim Dam 21 May, reduced to 3 occupied nests (one on shore) 2 June (IPG); (iv) a pair probably nesting (mobbing passing crows) in a compound on the south side of the A71 at Springhill on 23 June (IPG). Once again no reports received from important colonies in West Dunbartonshire (Argyll & Bute part) (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 100 Colgrain 3 Aug (DHMcE), 114 Lunderston Bay 8 Aug (FG), 200 at Ardmore on 24 Aug (DHMcE), 125 Cardwell Bay 27 Aug (IPG), 500 Arden 9 Sep (JBB), 170 Barcraigs Resr 27 Sep, roost 275 there 5 Oct, only 100 on 6 Dec (IPG), 131 Carbarns Pool 30 Nov (AIE), and 200 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane 17 Dec (DK).

 

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis

An adult was at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost 9-10 Feb (KH,JJS et al), then an adult, perhaps the same bird, often 'coming to bread' at the various car parks there 1-31 Mar (NLRS,JJM et al).

 

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus

Winter-spring reports included 60 at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 19 Jan (JJS), 3 Balgray Resr 25 Feb (JCh), 6 adults feeding on a dead ewe at Mid Hartfield on 28 Feb (IPG), 17 attending a trawler off Cloch Point on 14 Mar (ADW), and a pair at South Medwin Pools on 8 Apr (JSW,VW).

Breeding reports involved 4 on nests Loch Thom island 8 May, all of which had failed, nests and eggs allegedly destroyed by anglers, by 15 June (IPG), and a pair with nest Bowling Oil Terminal 18 May (JSW, VW). Other summer reports included an adult apparently attempting to locate Lapwing chicks at Bankbrae Farm 22 May, an adult on Barcraigs Resr 25 May, a pair present at least from 21 June-23 July, and 3 (2 ads and a 3rd-s bird) at Kaim Dam on 2 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports include 4 Carbarns Pool 21 Dec (AIE).

 

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus

Winter-spring reports were of a 1st-w imm at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 3 Jan (IF), an adult 11 Jan, the 1st-w again on 12 Jan (CJMcI) and 19 Jan (JJS), 1st-w and 2nd-w on 20 Jan, 1st-w on 27 Jan, 2-3 Feb (CJMcI), 9 Feb (KH), 12 Feb (per JJM), 15 Feb, two 1st-w imms on 17 Feb (JBB), 19 Feb (per BS), 23 Feb, 29 Feb, 2 Mar (CJMcI), one 1st-w on 6 Mar (JBB) and 8 Mar (CJMcI), 3 birds (two 1st-w and a 2nd-w) on 14 Mar (KH), a 1st-w on 21-23 Mar (DJA), a 2nd-w at Heritage Loch on 4 Jan (per JJM), a 1st-w and a 2nd-w there on 1 Feb, a 1st-w on 2 Feb (AT), a 1st-w on 28 Feb and 21 Mar, bathing at 1445 hrs on 25 Mar, and probably the same bird at South Cathkin landfill on 25 Mar (JJM).

Glaucous x Herring Gull Larus hyperboreus x argentatus

A 2nd-winter hybrid was identified at Strathclyde Loch on 23 Feb and 2 Mar (CJMcI).

 

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides

Good numbers in the winter-spring period: an adult at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 2 Jan (JJS), a 1st-w and adult on 3 Jan, the 1st-w and a 2nd-w on 4-5 Jan (per JJM), the 2nd-w on 6 Jan, adult on 11 Jan, 3 birds (a 1st-w, 2nd-w and adult) on 12 Jan (CJMcI), 1st-w and adult on 19 Jan (JJS), adult and 2nd-w on 20 Jan (CJMcI), 2nd-w and adult on 27 Jan, 5 birds (three 1st-w, a 2nd‑w and adult) on 2 Feb, 3 birds (1st-w, 2nd-w and imm (possible Kumlein's Gull) on 3 Feb, a 1st-w on 9 Feb, 2nd-w and adult on 10 Feb (CJMcI), a 2nd-w on 12 Feb, 3 (two 1st-w and a 2nd‑w) on 15 Feb (JBB), 4 birds (three 1st-w and an adult) on 17 Feb (CJMcI), 5 birds (three 1st-w, 2nd-w and an adult) on 17 Feb (JBB), a 1st-w and 2nd-w on 19 Feb (per BS), a 1st-w on 21 Feb (CJMcI), an adult and an “imm” on 29 Feb (KH), 2 adults on 2 Mar (CJMcI), a 2nd-w 4-7 Mar (LS, JBB,DM), 4 birds (three 1st-w and an adult) on 9 Mar (JBB), 3 birds (a 1st-w and 2 adults) on 14 Mar (KH), 3 (two 1st-w and an adult) on 15 Mar (JBB), a 1st-w and an adult 16 Mar (JJS), a 1st-w on 18 Mar (IF), a 1st-w and adult on 23 Mar (DJA), an adult Ardmore North Bay 5 Jan (JBB), a 1st-w at roost Balgray Resr 13 Jan, an adult on 9 Mar (JJS), two 1st-w imms at Pacific Quay, Glasgow on 16 Jan (JJS), one 1st-w on 17 Jan (JJM), 22 Jan (JJS), 23 Jan (per JJM) and at 1500 hrs on 14 Feb (JJS), a total of four 1st-w imms at the pre-roost off West Ferry, arriving singly from upriver between 1540-1630 hrs on 20 Jan (IPG), a 2nd-w at Heritage Loch on 1 Feb, a 1st-w on 28 Feb (JJM), an adult on 15 Mar (TS), a 1st-w at Milton Island 9 Feb (JJS), a 1st-w at Newshot Island at 1145 hrs on 10 Feb (AJR), two 1st-w birds on 14 Feb (WB), a 1st-w on 11 Mar, 16 Mar (AJR), 19 Mar (JBB), 22 Mar and 31 Mar, presumed same bird aged as 1st-s on 21 Apr (AJR), an adult at Bellshill Industrial Estate on 1 Mar and 4 Apr (SMcC), a 1st-w low over Hamilton Rd, Blantyre at 1745 hrs on 21 Mar (JJM), and a 2nd-w imm at mouth of River Leven at Dumbarton on 12 Apr (DG).

Autumn-winter reports involved a 1st-w imm at Hogganfield Loch intermittently 9-25 Dec (JJS,TPD et al), an adult Strathclyde Loch 21 Dec (JBB), and a 1st-w at East India Harbour and Custom House Quay, Greenock on 26 Dec (IPG).

 

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

Winter-spring reports included ca 450 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 6 Jan (IPG), 2,700 (including 190 L a argentatus) at Strathclyde Loch on 13 Jan (CJMcI), 10,000 at the gull roost there on 19 Jan (JJS), and 325 at roost West Ferry 21 Feb (IPG).

Breeding reports were of 1 nest Bowater's Factory, Milngavie 9 June (AKMcN). No count of the Loch Thom colony (IPG). Other summer reports included 300, mainly imms, feeding off Greenock with Guillemot flocks on 18 May (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included an estimated 400 between Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 17 Aug, and 400 (mainly adults or sub-adults) in Cardross Bay on 15 Sep (IPG).

 

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans

A 1st-winter bird at Strathclyde Loch 9- 14 Feb (KH,CJMcI). See Short Notes.

 

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis

An adult at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 2 Feb (CJMcI), 12 Feb (ECD), 15 Feb (JBB), 2 on 17 Feb, 2 on 21 Feb, 1 on 23 Feb (CJMcI), 2 on 2 Mar (CJMcI).

 

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus

Winter counts were of 16 Hogganfield Loch 2 Jan (PA), 1 Ardmore Point 11 Jan (HS), 190 at the Balgray Resr roost on 13 Jan, 250 at the Strathclyde Loch gull roost on 19 Jan (JJS), 38 at the West Ferry pre-roost on 20 Jan (IPG), and 60 at Carbarns Pool on 27 Jan (AIE). Spring-summer counts included 20 back Glasgow Airport 24 Feb (DHMcE), 120 at the Balgray Resr roost 8 Mar, increasing to 300 by 9 Mar (JJS), and 300 in a field at East Fulwood, Houston on 25 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports were of 16 nests on asbestos roofs Drumfrochar Street, Greenock 17 May (IPG), 15 nests on Homebase, West Shaw St, Greenock 5 June, 3 nests at East Shaw St, Greenock 5 June, 3 nests Loanbank Quadrant, Govan 7 June (ADW), 10 nests Bowater's factory, Milngavie 9 June (AKMcN), and a roughly estimated 200 pairs on roof of warehouses just east of Dumbarton Rock, with ca 390 juvs on shore there on 27 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 150 Hogganfield Loch 11 Sep, 21 on 18 Nov (CRS), 50 pre-roosting at Barcraigs Resr before heading off W at 1830 hrs on 5 Oct (IPG), 164 at Millichen Flood on 11 Oct (AKMcN), and 4 at Carbarns Pool on 21 Dec (AIE).

 

Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis

The first report in spring was of 2 on Cockle Bank, Port Glasgow on 13 Apr (ADW), 3 Ardencaple 14 Apr (WG), 4 Gare Loch 20-21 Apr (AK), 4 fishing off Port Glasgow 27 Apr, 2 on 18 May, 12 fishing around Ardmore Point 29 Apr, 1 Greenock Esplanade 3 May (IPG), and 4 at Colgrain on 10 May (DHMcE).

Autumn movements started early with 39 feeding between Greenock and Ardmore on 22 June (IPG,ADW), 4 N and 8 S/1hr past Cloch Point on 6 July (IPG), 35 on 10 July (FG), 19 N and 2 S/1hr on 19 July (MMcG), 2 N and 9 S/½hr on 5 Aug (IPG), 5 N and 5 S/1hr on 10 Aug, 6 N and 2 S/1hr on 14 Aug (MMcG), 6 S/½hr on 28 Aug (IPG), 3 N/½hr on 7 Sep (MMcG), 17 off Greenock Esplanade 20 July (IPG), 10 in Gourock Bay on 6 Aug (GB), 31 in Lunderston Bay on 8 Aug (FG), 6 N/1hr past Wemyss Point 19 Aug, 77 fishing between Wemyss Bay and Inverkip on 22 Aug, 12 E and 18 W/½hr (1815-1845 hrs) past Whiteforeland Point on 24 Aug, surprisingly none Ardmore-Craigendoran 31 Aug (IPG), only 8 on 14 Sep (DO'B), 59 on the sand at Cardwell Bay and simultaneously 39 feeding across the firth at Portkil Point (total 98) on 31 Aug (IPG), 15 Cardwell Bay 9 Sep (FG), 5 on 28 Sep (IPG), 29 feeding with Kittiwakes off Wemyss Point 6 Sep, 11 N and 6 S/1hr past Wemyss Point on 7 Sep, 23 N/1hr on 11 Sep, 7 N and 1 S/1hr on 17 Sep, 27 N and 2 S/1hr on 19 Sep, 7 off Port Glasgow 12 Sep (IPG), and 1 Ardmore South Bay 3 Oct (ANi).

Inland reports were of 1 Balgray Resr 17 July (RB), 2 W over at 1800 hrs on 27 July, 2 W over at 1400 hrs on 12 Aug (JJS), 2 W over Strathclyde Country Park 24 July (IL), 23 W high over Cumbernauld at 0545 hrs on 25 July (PB), 1 W over Baillieston, Glasgow at 2015 hrs on 28 July (IF), 1 W over Hogganfield Loch on 20 Aug (JJM), and 2 in Net Bay, Endrick Mouth on 31 Aug, 2 there also on 15 Sep (IF).

 

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Spring reports were of 2 at Newshot Island on 10 May, 5 on 16 May, 4 on 29 May, 6 on 16 June, 1 on 30 June (AJR), ca 50 back at Bowling breeding site 18 May (JSW,VW), 21 on gravel bank just west of West Ferry on 18 May, about a dozen feeding there on 3 June (IPG), 2 Newshot Island 10 May (AJR), 2 Rosneath Point 18 May (MMcG), 6 feeding off West Ferry 24 May (AB,IPG), 16 there on 20 June (FG), 10 on 6 July, 17 on 14 July (IPG), 4 off Erskine Harbour 6 June (AJR).

Breeding ca 50 back at Bowling breeding site 18 May (JSW,VW), and reports nearby of 2 at Newshot Island on 7 July, 9 on 17 July (AJR), but no breeding confirmed in 2008, probably due to lack of recording (ed.).

Autumn reports on the Clyde estuary involved 40 feeding off Cloch Point 24 July, 3 on 2 Aug, 2 on 12 Aug, 10 on 14 Aug, 1 on 3 Sep (MMcG), 6 Erskine Bridge 7 Aug (ECD), and an adult with a juv in Gourock Bay on 24 Aug (IPG). Inland reports were of one over Balmaha Bay, Loch Lomond on 21 July (IF), and one at Aird Meadow on 24 July (RSPB).

 

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea

All reports were of inland birds: spring passage reports involved 3 at Strathclyde Loch on 22 Apr, 4 on 23 Apr, 1 on 28 Apr (KH), and 1 at Balgray Resr on 28 Apr (JSW,VW); the only autumn report was of a juvenile at Hogganfield Loch from 24 Sep-3 Oct (RHW,JJM et al).

 

Great Skua Stercorarius skua

The only report in 2008 was of 6 S past Cloch Point at 1215 hrs on 13 Sep (JND,ADW).

 

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus

Autumn reports were of a dark-phase adult N past Cloch Point at 1910 hrs on 6 July (IPG), 1 S at 1848 hrs on 1 Aug (MMcG), a dark-phase bird chasing Black-headed Gulls on the Clyde estuary “between Erskine and Langbank” at 1130 hrs on 22 Aug (GMa), a dark-phase adult N past Wemyss Point at 1725 hrs on 7 Sep, and 2 E past Rosneath Point at 0915 hrs on 13 Sep (IPG).

 

Common Guillemot Uria aalge

Winter-spring reports included 1 on the River Clyde at Bowling on 6 Jan (JJM), 25 off Greenock Esplanade 9 Mar, 129 off Greenock on 27 Mar, 1 (non-breeding plumage) West Ferry 24-29 Apr, 248 off East India Harbour 27 Apr, 76 N and 23 S past Cloch Point between 1545‑1645 hrs in calm conditions on 10 May, and an unusually high late spring build-up to 348 off East India Harbour on 18 May (IPG).

Summer-winter counts included 11 N and 6 S/1hr past Cloch Point on 6 July, 990 Wemyss Bay-Cloch Point 9 Aug, raft 260 close to Wemyss Point 28 Aug, only ca 150 offshore in calm waters 7 Sep, 320 on 17 Sep (IPG), 114 Greenock-Wemyss Bay 13 Sep (FG,IPG et al), and 194 off East India Harbour-Greenock Esplanade on 14 Sep (IPG). There were fewer than usual inland, the only report being of one on the River Clyde at Bell's Bridge on 30 Sep (KMcC).

Clyde Estuary WeBS counts of auks ( per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Black Guillemot273257861109422187251616
Razorbill01133120800032000
Guillemot55424847694211310037941210
 

Razorbill Alca torda

Winter-spring reports were of 1 off Peaton Layo 11 Jan, 2 off Greenock Esplanade 29 Jan, 36 on 27 Mar, 2 off Cove on 12 Feb, 1 Kilcreggan 12 Feb, 1 Helensburgh 12 Feb, and 2 off East India Harbour on 18 May (IPG); an exceptional 197 were counted between Rhu and Coulport on 18 May (CMW).

Autumn-winter reports involved 2 Ardmore Point 11 Sep (ANi), 5 off Wemyss Point 13 Sep, 15 on 17 Sep, and 2 off Cloch Point on 26 Dec (IPG).

 

Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle

Winter-summer reports included 27 off East India Harbour 29 Jan, 24 off Ardmore Point 13 Feb (IPG), only 5 counted there despite good visibility 27 Mar (ADW), 37 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 9 Mar, a record count for the WeBS sector of 119 Port Glasgow-Greenock Esplanade 27 Mar, 57 on 8 Apr, 61 on 18 May, 68 on 22 June (IPG), 32 at East India/Victoria Harbours on 25 Apr (ADW), 49 offshore there on 27 Apr, 11 off Kingston Dock on 27 Apr (IPG), 5 at Princes Dock, including two on top of harbour wall beside public pavement, on 28 May (RCD,IPG,SRid), and 6 prs with nests there (not in nest boxes) on 16 July (ADW).

Autumn-winter reports included 15 off Craigendoran 26 July (JBB), 21 Wemyss Bay 7 Sep, only 1 despite excellent visibility from Port Glasgow 12 Sep, 33 off East India Harbour 14 Sep, 8 at Wemyss Point 17 Sep, 15 off Kingston, Port Glasgow 2 Nov, and 32 Port Glasgow-Cloch Point on 26 Dec (IPG).

 

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata

Winter-spring reports included 63 off Ardmore Point 12 Jan (IPG), 26 on 10 Feb (DO'B), 65 on 13 Feb (IPG), max count 80 on 27 Mar (ADW), 13 on 6 Apr (DO'B), 76 on 10 May (JBB), 19 on 18 May (DO'B), 31 on 19 May (AKMcN), 12 Port Glasgow-Greenock Esplanade 6 Jan, 69 on 10 Feb, 50 on 9 Mar, max count 117 on 27 Mar, 51 on 8 Apr, 46 on 18 May (IPG), 1 on Clyde at Bowling 6 Jan (per JJM), 8 Coulport-Peaton Layo 11 Jan, 3 on 12 Feb, 38 Garvel Point-Greenock Esplanade 29 Jan, 7 Rosneath Point-Kilcreggan 12 Feb, 37 off Helensburgh 12 Feb, 2 on Clyde at Dumbarton Rock 16 Feb, 50 off East India Harbour 4 Mar (IPG), 13 on 25 Apr (ADW), 61 on 27 Apr, 42 on 18 May (IPG), 3 in Gare Loch off Clynder 31 Mar (IPG), an imm on Clyde at Dumbuck 24-25 Apr (IPG,ADW), 2 (separate imm and adult) West Ferry-Leven mouth 29 Apr (IPG,KMcC), 2 off Kingston Dock 27 Apr, and 8 off Ardmore South Bay 29 Apr (IPG). A pair was off the south side of Ardmore Point on 22 June (ADW).

Red-throated Diver Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Erskine-West Ferry221000000000
Langbank-Newark Castle001000000010
Newark Castle-Gourock Bay126950514600072110
Kempock Point-Wemyss Bay023000000051
Dumbarton-Cardross0211000000006
Cardross-Craigendoran Pier56581319200611513
Craigendoran Pier-Rhu Point0372300008011
Rhu Point-Rosneath202300000011
Rosneath-Kilcreggan8283000001115
Kilcreggan-Coulport112000010025
Clyde Estuary Total301997873652012143742

Coordinated counts from Ardmore Point and Greenock in 2008 (IPG,DO'B,ADW et al)

6 Janw 12 Jan 29 Jan10 Febw 13 Feb1 9 Marw27 Mar 6 Aprw
Ardmore Point 563 nc26 65 880 13
Greenock-Port Glasgow 1212 38 69 69 50 117512
Clyde Estuary total*3095 38 199204 78 19773
 18 MayW 22 JuneW 20 JulyW 17 AugW 14 SepW 19 OctW 16 NovW 26 Dec
Ardmore Point 1900 0 6 015 nc
Greenock-Port Glasgow 4600 0 7 211 69
Clyde Estuary total* 6520 1 21 437 75

* incorporating any counts from elsewhere on the estuary on the same date

w WeBS count

1 result of survey 10-13 Feb (see additional site records below)

2 Greenock-Port Glasgow counted on 8 Apr (very poor conditions on WeBS date)

Inland reports involved a 1st-w imm on Strathclyde Loch 30 Mar-1 Apr (JJM), a breeding-plumaged adult at Endrick Mouth on 27 Apr (DHMcE), and 1 at Balmaha on 12 May (MMcG).

Breeding: Site A (Renf) Pair on nearby reservoir on 12 Apr, 27 Apr, 10 May, not present at Site A on 3 May, 10 May, 17 May or 8 June, then present and engaging in courtship behaviour on 2 July, but too late for breeding, not present on 12 July (IPG), and a single adult on nearby loch on 26 July (FG).

Site C (West Stir) A pair present on 9 May (FH) and 7 June, but no evidence of breeding (IF).

Autumn-winter reports included an adult Lunderston Bay 9 Aug-7 Sep, 5 on 26 Dec, a pair with two full-grown juvs and a separate adult off Ardmore Point on 9 Aug, an adult pair in Loch Long at Glenmallan on 9 Aug, 6 seen from Port Glasgow in ideal visibility 12 Nov, 6 from East India Harbour and 1 (still in full breeding plumage) off Newark Castle on 14 Sep, 32 off Kingston, Port Glasgow 2 Nov, 20 on 27 Nov, 23 on 26 Dec, 23 off East India Harbour 26 Dec, 23 off Greenock Esplanade 26 Dec, total 69 Port Glasgow-Greenock Esplanade 26 Dec, 1 Gourock Bay 26 Dec, and 5 Lunderston Bay 26 Dec (IPG).

Diver and grebe counts from Ardmore Point in 2008

6 JanW 12 Jan10 FebW13 Feb 9 MarW 27 Mar
Red-throated Diver 56326 658 80
Great Crested Grebe 16 3643 616 59
Slavonian Grebe 1282 590 63
ObserverDO'BIPGDO'B IPGDO'B ADW
 6 AprW18 MayW 22 JuneW 20 JulyW 17 AugW 14 SepW
Red-throated Diver 13 192 0 0 6
Great Crested Grebe 34 163 8 116184
Slavonian Grebe 60 0 0 0 0
Observer DO'BDO'B ADW DO'B DO'B DO'B

w WeBS count date

 

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica

One was close inshore in Cardross Bay on 23 May (AGG).

Breeding: Site A (West Stir) a pair on 22 Mar (JTT), again on 8 May (RSPB).

A juvenile was in Cardwell Bay, Gourock from 17-29 Aug (IPG,FG,ADW et al).

 

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer

One was seen off Ardmore Point on 15 Mar (MMcG), then possibly the same bird off Kingston Dock, Port Glasgow on 27 Mar (IPG).

One was in Lunderston Bay on 16 Nov (FG).

 

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis

Only two reports in 2008: 3 past Cloch Point on 27 June, 1 on 16 July (MMcG).

 

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus

The first reported were 1 S past Cloch Point at 1552 hrs and 1 N at 1622 hrs on 10 May (IPG), followed by 300 between McInroy's Point and Dunoon (Argyll) on 1 June (DC).

Counts at Cloch Point in 2008

10 May 1 June 2 June 9 June 13 June 22 June 27 June 28 June 2 July
Time1545-1645 1230-1330 1330-1430 1200-1300 1730-1830 1800-1830 1730-1830 1800-1830 2020-2050
Wind S 1 NE 2 E 2 SW 4 W 1S 3 n/rn/rn/r
Birds N1197 192 37 611 21 93
Birds S 187 50 40 43043 26 38
Observers IPG FGFGFGFG IPG MMcG MMcG MMcG
  4 July 6 July 10 July12 July12 July 16 July18 July19 July24 July
Time1830-1930 1830-1930 1700-1900 1900-1930 1900-2000 1930-2030 1930-2000 1900-2000 1615-1715
Wind W 1-2N 4 NE 1-2 W 1-2W 1-2 n/rn/rn/rn/r
Birds N085 54 04311 61 1
Birds S 52 71 25 94216 109 206 39
Observers FGIPG FGMMcG FG MMcG MMcG MMcG MMcG
  26 July27 July30 July1 Aug1 Aug 2 Aug4 Aug5 Aug5 Aug
Time1945-2045 1950-2020 1925-2025 1520-1550 1900-1930 2005-2105 1830-1900 1750-1820 1900-2000
Wind n/rn/rn/rn/rE 3 n/rW 3 NW 2Calm
Birds N333 090 4031 012
Birds S 590 26 164 1031 014 1
Observers MMcG MMcG MMcG MMcG IPG MMcG IPG IPG FG
  5 Aug7 Aug9 Aug10 Aug12 Aug14 Aug15 Aug21 Aug27 Aug
Time1920-2020 1920-2020 1645-1715 1955-2055 1935-2035 1825-1925 1825-1925 1920-2020 1800-1830
Wind n/rn/rSW 2 n/rn/rn/rn/rn/rn/r
Birds N57 17 0426 48107 75 23 4
Birds S 107 88 0670 287 112 76 57 7
Observers MMcG MMcG IPG MMcG MMcG MMcG MMcG MMcG MMcG
  28 Aug29 Aug3 Sep 7 Sep 8 Sep 12 Sep
Time1600-1630 1905-1935 150-1920 1700-1800 1615-1815 1830-1900
Wind SW 4 n/rn/rn/rSW 2 n/r
Birds N10 2044 519
Birds S 13 18 015 3829
Observers IPG MMcG MMcG MMcG FG MMcG

Counts at Wemyss Point in 2008

19 Aug27 Aug7 Sep 11 Sep 17 Sep 19 Sep
Time1745-1845 1700-1730 1700-1800 1700-1800 1530-1630 1630-1730
Wind NW 3SW 3 NW 1SW 4 SE 1 SW 3
Birds N20 73 233 57 184
Birds S 021 154 28 2715
Observers IPG IPG IPG IPG IPG IPG

Other reports included 24 feeding off Greenock 22 June, 20 far off Wemyss Bay 9 Aug, 1 off Wemyss Bay 22 Aug (IPG), 29 past Wemyss Point 1230-1300 hrs on 26 Aug (GJB,WB), 140 feeding offshore on 27 Aug, 163 on 28 Aug, 189 on 31 Aug (IPG), 250 feeding off Cloch Point at 1730 hrs on 24 July (MMcG), 150 past Cloch Point in one hour 26 Aug (GJB,WB), 550 feeding off Lunderston Bay 4 Sep (FG), total 200 Ironotter Point-Wemyss Bay 13 Sep (FG,IPG et al), and 150 feeding far off Wemyss Bay on 17 Sep (IPG).

 

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

Probable escape

One was found at Colzium Estate curling pond (NS730783) at 1900 hrs on 7 May, then seen again at 0600 hrs on 8 May, but could not be relocated later that morning (JT,JJM). Reports of possibly the same bird involved one in a field at Quarrier's Village (NS361673) at 1530 hrs on 10 May (StevenCraig), one landing in a field at Hurlet (NS512608) later the same day at 1800 hrs (BrianGreer), and also seen later in the evening (JMcM); it stayed there overnight then was observed flying off south at 1040 hrs on 11 May (KH). It then turned up at the north end of Strathclyde Country Park on 1 June, when it was photographed (IL).

Close examination of the photograph revealed the bird to be wearing a small rubber or plastic ring, suggesting it to be an escape from captivity; a photograph taken at Colzium revealed an identical ring, strongly suggesting that the same bird was involved. Photographs taken at Hurlet could not establish if the bird was ringed, however various plumage details were identical and it can also safely be assumed to have been the same bird. This begs another question: could this conceivably be the same tame stork that turned up at the rather unlikely locality of Colzium Estate in June 2000, eight years previously? (eds.).

 

Gannet Morus bassanus

The first report of the year was an adult W past Kilcreggan on 9 Mar (IPG,ADW), followed by 3 attending a fishing boat off Cloch Point on 14 Mar (ADW), 2 off Pillar Bank 15 Mar (FG), an adult W past Rosneath on 27 Mar (IPG), 1 off Colgrain 19 Apr (DHMcE), 3 around the Captyannis-Helensburgh 27 Apr, 3 in same area 18 May, 33 adults fishing off Cloch Point 3 May, and 19 fishing with other seabirds off Greenock West on 22 June (IPG).

Counts at Cloch Point in 2008

10 May 1 June 2 June 22 June 27 June 28 June 1 July 2 July 4 July
Time 1545-1645 1230-1330 1330-1430 1800-1830 1730-1830 1800-1830 1830-1930 2020-2050 1830-1930
WindS 1 NE 2 E 2 S 3 n/rn/rN 4 n/rSW 1-2
Birds N 37 4562 11 743 04
Birds S 33 1127 7511 25
ObserversIPG FGFGIPG MMcGMMcGIPG MMcGFG
  9 July 10 July12 July12 July16 July18 July19 July24 July26 July
Time 1845-1945 1700-1900 1900-1930 1900-2000 1930-20301930-20001900-20001615-1715 1945-2045
WindE 3-4 NE 1-2 SW 2 SW 1-2n/r n/r n/r n/rn/r
Birds N 64 57 419 11 0 24 028
Birds S 48 59 6812 0 12 334
ObserversFGFGMMcG FGMMcGMMcGMMcGMMcG MMcG
  27 July27 July29 July30 July1 Aug 1 Aug2 Aug 4 Aug5 Aug
Time 1950-2020 2030-2130 1915-2030 1925-20251520-15501900-1930 2005-21051830-1900 1900-2000
Windn/rENE 1-2 Calm n/r n/r E 3 n/r W 3 Calm
Birds N 10 19 29 34 9 312 121
Birds S 8615 17 12 212 118
ObserversMMcG FGIPG MMcGMMcGIPG MMcGIPG FG
  5 Aug7 Aug9 Aug10 Aug12 Aug14 Aug15 Aug21 Aug27 Aug
Time 1750-1820 1920-2020 1645-1715 1955-2055 1935-2035 1825-1925 1825-1925 1920-2020 1800-1830
WindNW 2n/rSW 2 n/rn/rn/rn/rn/rn/r
Birds N 27 39 358 127 91 71 22 12
Birds S 11 84 147 95 32 83 29 27
ObserversIPG MMcGIPG MMcGMMcGMMcGMMcGMMcGMMcG
  28 Aug28 Aug29 Aug3 Sep 7 Sep 8 Sep 12 Sep -
Time 1340-1600 1600-1630 1905-1935 1850-1920 1700-1800 1615-1815 1830-1900 -
WindW 2-3SW 4 n/rn/rn/rCalm n/r-
Birds N 19 24 8254 99-
Birds S 12 12 20 443 729 -
Observers FGIPG MMcGMMcGMMcGFGMMcG-

Counts at Wemyss Point in 2008

19 Aug27 Aug27 Aug7 Sep 11 Sep 17 Sep 19 Sep
Time1745-1845 1700-1730 1845-1915 1700-1800 1700-1800 1530-1630 1630-1730
Wind NW 3SW 3 SW 3 NW 1SW 4 SE 1SW 3
Birds N15 11 11 57 7121 40
Birds S 313 622 9614 40
Observers IPG IPG MMcG IPG IPG IPG IPG

Other summer-autumn counts included 20 fishing off Wemyss Bay 1 Aug, 32 on 31 Aug, 8 E and 3 W/½hr past Whiteforeland Point 24 Aug (IPG), 6 off Ardmore Point 7 Sep (DHMcE), 1 off Cardross 12 Sep (IPG).

Overland passage involved a juv NW over Stepps on 13 Sep (DSm), a juv over Arpochill 13 Sep (NWh), and a juv SW over Duchal Moor at 1145 hrs on 30 Oct (JR).

 

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total248451400242101174177398618219325313
Sites recorded 74343536281416181523243124
Clyde estuary11124118010872141144366555147237187
Strathclyde Country Park18416848-66412000
Brother Loch61810---114102020
Black Cart Water SPA913610106581112109
Thankerton-Carstairs0046-----2200
Hamilton Low Parks2252011166252
Antermony Loch6141100126653
Endrick Mouth26111023-1644

Winter-spring reports included 106 at Strathclyde Loch 2 Jan (IL), 70 on 19 Jan, 90 on 10 Feb (JJS), 175 on 6 Mar, 50 on 7 Apr (DMo), 17 Aird Meadow 4 Jan (RSPB), 24 at roost Glasgow Green 5 Feb (CRS), 24 flew upriver at Merryton/Carbarns on 10 Feb and 5 Apr (AIE), 18 Balgray Resr 10 Feb (SAW), 12 Bardowie Loch 11 Feb (AKMcN), 2 adults in breeding plumage Loch Thom island 24 Mar, possibly same 2 on 12 Apr, 1 adult on 27 Apr, 1 imm on 3 May, 8 May, 17 May (IPG), 11 at Cart/Clyde confluence 31 Mar (ECD), 6 at Hogganfield Loch 10 Apr (CRS), 5 Barcraigs Resr 11 Apr, 8 on 23-26 Apr, 1 on 4 May, 6 (one with plumage characters similar to P c sinensis) on 12 May, 2 on 25 May, 3 from 21-28 June, 1 on 3 July, 4 on rocky islet Rowbank Resr 23 July (IPG), and 18 at the Endrick Mouth on 8 June (DHMcE).

An unusual observation involved two Cormorants circling together over Compensation Reservoir for at least ten minutes, gradually gaining height to approximately 350 metres above the reservoir, on 10 May (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 137 on and around the Captyannis on 17 Aug (IPG), 150 on 31 Aug (DHMcE), 140 on 14 Sep, 4 Barcraigs Resr 2 Sep (IPG), 17 Aird Meadow 5 Nov (RSPB), 14 at Cart/Clyde confluence 2 Dec (ECD), 9 Bardowie Loch 7 Dec (AKMcN), and 25 flying upriver past Merryton/Carbarns on 7 Dec (AIE).

 

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis

Clyde Estuary counts (WeBS per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Newark Castle-Gourock Bay95232846322363176422613
Gourock-Wemyss Bay24811291416293951918
Cardross-Craigendoran133818837026566601223
Helensburgh-Coulport251951061192542131840
Clyde Estuary Total15729712353893547141223607594

Winter-spring reports included 95 Port Glasgow-Greenock Esplanade 6 Jan, 91 on 12 Jan, an exceptional count of 232 on 10 Feb, 84 on 9 Mar, 67 on 27 Mar, 32 on 18 May, 56 off Ardmore Point 12 Jan, 30 on 13 Feb (IPG), 18 on 9 Mar (DO'B), only 12 despite very good visibility 27 Mar (ADW), Inner Clyde totals 164 during survey (excluding Cloch Point-Wemyss Bay) 11‑12 Jan, a record Clyde Estuary count total of 285 on survey 10-13 Feb, 5 off East India Harbour 27 Apr, and 33 along the Greenock waterfront on 22 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 31 Port Glasgow-Gourock Bay 17 Aug, 76 on 14 Sep, 148 on 26 Dec, 10 in Gourock Bay 31 Aug, 15 on rocks Wemyss Point 6 Sep (IPG).

 

Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia

Two flew south over Merryton, heading up the Clyde valley, at 0857 hrs on 29 May (AIE).

 

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) results, listing the most important sites in 2008 (per JSW,VW)

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
Clyde Area Total981368767899610411013711612995
Sites recorded 100404333333230393132333930
Clyde estuary33331582138336068435151
Black Cart Water SPA1076078158121682
Endrick Mouth411151171-76810
Hamilton Low Parks3515102522251
Douglas Estate Ponds038422273250
Coves Reservoir440201125581
Hogganfield Loch075200002121
Balgray Reservoir130112523101

Winter-spring reports included 7 along the Black Cart Water, Castle Semple Loch-Thirdpart Hall 3 Jan (IPG), 6 in field at end of Carman Road, Cardross 1 Feb (FL), 7 Hogganfield Loch 8 Feb (CRS), 6 Aird Meadow 2 Mar, 7 on 26 Apr (RSPB), and 3 in a field by the Black Cart Water at Yonderton 2 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (occupied nest counts)

Site Nests Obs Site Nests Obs
Ardgowan, Crowhill Wood *13 ADW Glengavel * 2 RJH
Balfron, Endrick Bridge 8 JTK Hamilton, Barmichael Plantation * 49 CMW
Buchanan Castle, East Lodge *19 JTK Hogganfield Loch * 3 CRS
Crawford, Tewsgill Wood * 3 DWM Libberton, Yett Farm * 15 DWM
Dargavel House/South Crooks63 ADW Loch Lomond, Rossdhu Park *5 JTK
Douglas Estate8 ADW Lochwinnoch, Crooks Plantation * 7 ECP
Dumbarton, Levengrove Park * 7 JVWMilngavie, Craigton *7 AKMcN
Endrick Mouth, Gartfairn Wood * 11 JTK Rhu, Ardencaple 3 CMW
Finlaystone, Brackenhead Plantation 21 ADW Waulkmill Glen Reservoir0 J&VW

Summary: a total of 244 nests reported at 17 heronries in 2008, a slight decrease of 2.1% at comparable sites (marked *) since 2007 (census results per ADW); slightly improved coverage (ed.).

Clyde Heronry Nest Counts 1998-2008

Site 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Ardgowan, Crowhill Wood 11101214117 nc10nc8 13
Balfron, Endrick Bridge -----1+6 6 7 nc8
Barochan Mossncncncnc-------
Barr Loch 2 ----------
Brother Loch 3 2 2 nc2 3 Nc 3 ncncnc
Buchanan Castle, East Lodge 2017192218231714181519
Cloch Point Wood-----------
Corsehouse Plantation ----nc1 ncncncncnc
Coulport---ncncncncncncncnc
Craigallian Loch -----------
Crawford, Tewsgill Hill 3 6 4 nc2 6 nc2 5 3 3
Dargavel House/South Crooks ----ncncncnc35nc63
Douglas Estate 7 7 8 10ncncncncncnc8
Drumclog 0 ----------
Dumbarton. Levengrove Park ------4 4 3 5 7
Endrick Mouth, Gartfairn Wood 10101111121210108 1111
Finlaystone Est, Brackenhead Wood 322734312925nc22ncnc21
Fintry, Camalt House --------4 --
Fintry, Spittalhill Farm 2 ---nc7 ---6 -
Garelochhead-1 1 1 1 ncncncncncnc
Garelochhead, Mambeg--1 1 ncncncncncncnc
Glen Fruin, Drumfad 9 9 10nc1317nc9 ncnc-
Glengavel Reservoir3 6 7 6 5 6 ncncnc5 2
Hamilton, Barmichael Plantation3622485249484348465149
Helensburgh, Daligan----ncncncncncncnc
Hogganfield Loch 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 2 3
Kilmacolm, Duchal Estate14181619ncncncncncncnc
Kilmacolm, Glen Moss1 4 4 nc5 4 ncncncncnc
Kilmacolm, Milton ----9 9 6 ncncncnc
Kilsyth, Dumbreck ----ncncncncncncnc
Libberton, Brownhill Farm Wood -----14nc----
Libberton, Yett Farm Wood108 10nc13-nc11141415
Loch Lomond, Midross -----------
Loch Lomond, Rossdhu Park 5 5 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5
Lochwinnoch, Crooks Plantation-2 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 7 7
Longriggend, Pleamuir Wood106 ncnc1815ncncncncnc
Milngavie, Craigton ----2 3 nc4 nc4 7
Pettinain, Northflattnc----------
Rhu, Ardencaple ---1 ncncncncncnc3
Rosneath Pointnc---ncncncncncncnc
Strathaven, Lambhill 2 ----------
Strathblane, Blairtummock ----ncncncncncncnc
Strathblane, Craigbarnet Farm2 nc4 ncncncncncncncnc
Waulkmill Glen Reservoir--2 2 7 7 8 7 7 0 0
Clyde Area Total (nests)224160203179205209106161177134244

Autumn-winter reports included 9 Cardross Bay 1 June (JBB), 15 at Colin's Isle 20 July, nearby 13 at the Cart/Clyde confluence 19 Sep (ECD), 3 (adult and 2 juvs) Chapel Farm Pool 21 Sep (IPG), 14 Lunderston Bay 30 Sep, 16 on 13 Oct (FG), and 8 by the River Clyde, Blantyreferme-Carmyle 10 Dec (CRS).

 

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

Two reports in 2008: one on the Douglas Water at Easter Tofts-Wolfcrooks then later at Douglas Water Pool on 30 Apr (DS), presumed same bird there on 30 May (JBB), and one W over Govan 17 July (WL).

 

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Spring-summer reports were of one bird back at nest site B on 1 Apr (AKMcN), one NW over Mugdock Resr at 1500 hrs on 12 Apr (AGJ), one fishing River Clyde below Abington 22 Apr (JDa), followed by sightings in Lanarkshire of one being mobbed by a Peregrine at Falls of Clyde, New Lanark on 1 May, another one there on 26 May (SKa), one over Camps Resr 13 May (KS), 2 Abington 13 May (LB), one catching a fish from the River Clyde at Lamington and flying off NE on 14 July (JSW,VW); in North Clyde one at Carron Valley Resr 13 Apr (AKMcN), one on 7 June (JJM), one E over Inversnaid 16 Apr (RSPB), 2 at Inchcaillloch on 27 Apr (DHMcE), one S over Sallochy 5 May (IM), one fishing Endrick Water at Drymen Bridge 14 May (VIF), one fishing Loch Ardinning 20 May (ECD), one over Cairnoch 26 May (AC-C), one fishing Burncrooks Resr 7 June (IF), one over Millichen Flood 14 June (JC), one fishing Kilmannan Resr 15 June (WW), one at Net Bay, Endrick Mouth on 15 July (ECD); in Renfrewshire one SE over Main Street, Lochwinnoch towards Castle Semple Loch at 1925 hrs on 25 May (ZB), one taking a Canada Goose gosling at south end Loch Thom 24 June, one there again on 25 June, on east side Loch Thom 27 June, at west end Gryfe No.1 Resr 28 June (JMcCr), one catching a fish at Barcraigs Resr then heading SW towards Brownmuir Plantation (Ayrshire) on 21 June (IPG), presumed same bird at the Lochwinnoch Reserve on 22 June, and at 1030 hrs on 23 June (RSPB), one seen carrying a fish S over East Burnthills heading towards Brownmuir Plantation on 22 June (CMc), fishing at Barcraigs Resr at midday on 25 June (AF), catching a fish and heading NE over Rowbank Cottage on the evening of 1 July (MMcG), fishing Barcraigs and Rowbank Resrs at 0745 hrs then eating a fish while perched on a telegraph pole beside B776 on 11 July, fishing Rowbank Resr at 1015 hrs on 13 July (EW), Barcraigs Resr at 2000 hrs on 15 July (DGM), at 1130 hrs and again at 1515‑1525 hrs on 16 July (ZB et al), fishing Rowbank Resr 1730-1755 hrs, then flying towards Howwood on 23 July (IPG), at Barcraigs/Rowbank Resrs from 1345 hrs onwards on 28 July (DGM), one over Aird Meadow, heading towards Barr Loch at 1330 hrs on 16 July, and one fishing over Aird Meadow at 1330 hrs on 28 July (RSPB).

Breeding: 3 pairs fledged 7 young, with another 2 prs on territory but not nesting, in the Loch Lomond area; also a pair fledged 2 young in South Lanarkshire in 2008, the first recorded breeding in the county (per RSPB and Scottish Raptor Study Groups). Due to licensing requirements, threats from egg collectors and the importance that the RSPB attaches to maintaining good landowner relations, it is important that these breeding sites should not be sought out by birdwatchers. Such activity may cause problems with RSPB protection schemes. It is now relatively easy to see Osprey in Southern Scotland without visiting nesting sites. If observers do find out sensitive breeding information, it is important that this is not disseminated, as breeding Ospreys in the Clyde area have already been subject to robbery (RSPB).

Autumn reports were of 3 around Ring Point, Endrick Mouth 8 July (DHMcE), one on 18 Aug (AKMcN), 2 on 3 Aug, one on 17 Aug (DHMcE), 4 on 22 Aug (JTMcE), 3 on 31 Aug (ANi), one on 15 Sep (IF), 2 over Croftamie 15 July (FL), one Inchcailloch 28 July, one Carron Valley Resr 3 Aug, one Balmaha 18 Aug (AKMcN), one perched on dead tree at Rowbank Resr, then did one circuit of both Rowbank and Barcraigs reservoirs before flying towards Howwood at 1845 hrs on 3 Aug (IPG), 2 birds landed on conifers beside Rowbank Resr 4 Aug (SMcg), at least one still present on 10 Aug (DGM), 14 Aug (per BG), catching a fish at Barcraigs Resr at 1820 hrs on 18 Aug (IPG), one perched on telegraph pole eating a large Brown Trout Salmo trutta at Rowbank Resr on 21 Aug (JRe), one on 7 Sep (JBB), one circling over Newshot Island at 1100 hrs on 8 Aug and again at 1050 hrs on 22 Aug (AJR), one fishing around Cardross Bay 1420‑1435 hrs, then flying towards Ardmore, on 9 Aug (IPG), one fishing between Cardross and Ardmore at 1600 hrs on 16 Aug (AGG), one over Cardross Bay towards Ardmore at 0930 hrs on 26 Aug (ANi), one fishing River Clyde at Abington on the morning of 11 Aug (JSW,VW), one fishing at Harelaw Dam and Long Loch on 9 Sep (JSW,VW), one at the Endrick Mouth on 15 Sep (IF), and one fishing the Duneaton Water at Crawfordjohn on 24 Sep and on 27 Sep (JDa).

 

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus

A satellite-tracked juvenile ♀ from a nest in Northern Scotland was recorded just south of Hillend Resr at 1300 hrs on 6 Sep, and at Palnackie, Kirkcudbrightshire, only six hours later (per www.roydennis.org).

 

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos

Winter-spring reports included a 1st-w imm near Daer Resr 26-27 Feb (per CJR), one over Inversnaid 1 Mar (DO'B), 1 on 13 Sep (DJC), 1 Conic Hill 16 Mar (AS), an imm near Cowgill Upper Resr 9 Apr (ECD), and an imm at Monkshead, Hareshaw Hill on 23 June (JJG).

No data from traditional breeding sites (ed.). No autumn-winter reports.

 

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus

Winter-spring reports included 1 Laurieston, Glasgow 20 Feb (JSW,VW).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Balloch Country Park1 AKMcN Garscube Estate 1 TB Mugdock Country Park1AKMcN
Cairnhill Woods1 TB Glasgow, Linn Park1 SAW Muirshiel Country Park 1CMRS
Colgrain 1 DHMcE Glasgow, Victoria Park 1 AReNewton Mearns, Kirkhill 1JVW

Summary: 9 pairs at 9 sites in 2008, a poor level of reporting (ed.).

Other breeding season reports included an adult ♂ hunting in gardens at Marnock on 13 May, a moulting 1st-s ♂ at Kaim Dam on 2 June, two 1st-s ♂♂ (one non-moulting presumed breeding, the other in heavy moult) engaged in territorial tussle Muirshiel Country Park 6 June (IPG), a ♂ Colquhoun St, Helensburgh 28 June, a ♂ Helensburgh Muir 30 June, a ♂ Old Kirkpatrick 30 June (DHMcE), and a ♀ attempting unsuccessfully to catch a Lapwing at Cleaves Farm, Houston on 1 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 2 juv ♀♀ together on one tree at Elliston Farm, Howwood on 27 Aug (IPG), a pair Barscube Hill 19 Sep (DSF), a ♀ at Hyndland Station on 26 Sep (TB), and 1 at Kelvingrove Park on 20 Nov (MMcG).

Three observers reported a total of 116 bird-days in 2008, compared to 660 bird-days in the case of Kestrel, i.e. 15% of sightings were of Sparrowhawk (see table below). Comments included “a poor year” (DHMcE).

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct NovDec Total Observers
0 45 64 64 5 2 33648 IPG
1 11 00 32 4 3 02219 DHMcE
-52 75 00 2 8 57549 J&VW
1108 13 9 96 11 13812 13 116 All
 

Goshawk Accipiter gentilis

A pair bred and reared b/4 near Wilsontown, food pass observed on 20 July (EH).

A juvenile was seen being harassed by Buzzard and gulls at Craigbarnet on 12 Aug and 26 Sep (DK).

 

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

A ♀ was at Aber Bog, Endrick Mouth on 9 May (ANi).

 

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus

Winter-spring reports included a ♂ north side of Barr Loch 2 Jan (HAD), a ringtail Endrick Mouth 3 Jan (ANi), a ♂ Aird Meadow on various dates between 6 Jan-4 Mar, 2 ♂♂ on 18 Feb, 1 ♂ on 23 Feb (RSPB), roost of up to 4 ♂♂ and 1 ♀ south end Barr Loch 15-17 Jan (MMcG), only 2 ♂♂ going in between 1513-1538 hrs on 15 Feb (IPG), a ♂ on 1 Mar and 6 Mar (MMcG), a ♀ Colgrain marsh 13 Jan (DHMcE), a ♂ and a ringtail over Darleith 7 Feb, 1 on 5 Mar (FL), a ♂ hunting N side Hartfield Moss 9 Feb (IPG), 1 Strathblane 19 Feb (GJC), 1 Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 29 Feb (DK), 1 at Loch Ardinning 1 Mar (GRB), a ringtail at Finnich Glen on 8 Mar and 26 Mar (AKMcN), a ringtail near the west end of the old road in Glen Fruin on 15 Mar (JC), and a ringtail at the Endrick Mouth on 9 May (ANi).

Breeding season reports included in Renfrewshire a ♀ Muirshiel Country Park 3 Apr (CMRS), a ♂ hunting Dowries to Darndaff Moor 12 Apr (IPG), a ♂ at Queenside Muir on 11 July (MMcG), a ♀ Lyles Hill 26 Apr (CMRS); in West Stirlingshire a ♂ hunting Stockie Muir 16 June (DLC); and in West Dunbartonshire a ♂ apparently going to roost at Auchenreoch Muir (NS415778) at 2015 hrs on 6 May (RSPB).

County Territories occupied Occupied by pairs Unmated males Nest sites located Successful nests Young fledged
Lanarkshire 2 2 0 2 2 9
Renfrewshire4 4 1 2 2 7
West Stirlingshire1 1 0 1 1 5
West Dunbartonshire* 2 1 1 1 1 5
Clyde Area Totals9 8 2 6 6 26

* including former part now in Argyll & Bute UA.

Breeding summary: only 2 territories reported from South Lanarkshire (RG,KS,SS et al); 4 territories located in Renfrewshire (IPG,KMcG,SJM et al); 1 territory reported in West Stirlingshire; and 2 territories located in West Dunbartonshire (JGS et al).

Autumn-winter reports were of 1 Mosscastle 23 July (SD), a juv ♂ hunting near top of Daer Resr 4 Aug (JSW,VW), a ♀ Cample Burn 9 Aug (CMRS), a juv Clovenstone 13 Aug (ZB), a ♀ Muirshiel Mine 16 Aug (CMRS), a ringtail Campsie Muir 17 Aug (AKMcN), a ♂ Muirshiel Country Park 1 Sep (CMRS), a ringtail Craigbarnet 4 Sep, 2 on 8 Oct, 1 on 4 Nov (DK), ♀ hunting South Medwin Pools 8 Sep (JSW,VW), a ♂ hunting on Moyne Moor 9 Sep (JSW,VW), a ♂ Craigend Farm 19 Sep (DK), a ♂ at Heathfield Farm on 30 Sep and on 2 Oct (CMRS), a ♂ Gleniffer Braes 29 Oct, a ♀ on 31 Oct (per GTW), a ♂ over Aird Meadow at 0930 hrs on 2 Nov, a ♂ on 3 Nov, 13 Nov, 16-17 Nov and on 2-3 Dec (RSPB), a ♂ Clachan of Campsie 4 Nov (DK), a ♂ Duchal Moor 18 Nov (JRe), a ♂ hunting Wester Walkinshaw 7 Dec (AMo), and a ♂ flying across the B786 at Barnaigh on 28 Dec (GT).

 

Red Kite Milvus milvus

One was at Ballat on 23 Aug (JM).

 

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla

One flew N over Inversnaid at 1250 hrs on 16 Jan (per JJM), and a released bird from Fife was radio-tracked over Killearn on 14 July, having previously been at Callander (Forth) (RSPB).

 

Buzzard Buteo buteo

Winter-spring reports included 5 Ballochruin Pool 3 Feb and 5 Apr (AKMcN), 4 Overtoun Burn 6 Feb (ECD), 3 East Millichen Farm 9 Feb (AKMcN), 4 soaring Birdston, Kirkintilloch 18 Feb (JTMcE), 10 Mugdock Country Park 24 Feb (GJC), 1 Wallace's Well, Glasgow 25 Feb (DHMcE), 6 Ladymuir Forest 2 Mar (DSF), 5 Killearn 2 Mar (DHMcE), 8 soaring Blackstoun Farm-Linwood Moss-Inchinnan 4 Mar (GTW), 4 Dougalston Loch 9 Mar (AKMcN), 1 soaring over Kilsyth Town Centre 12 Mar (JTMcE), 6 Castle Semple Loch 17 Mar (RSPB), and 4 soaring Drumpellier Golf Course 24 Mar (CL). Breeding season reports included 3 Glenpark, Paisley 5 Apr (TB), 11 Barscube Hill 7 Apr (DSF), 3 hunting over Bishop Loch 7 Apr (CRS), 7 soaring Ryat Linn Resr 27 Apr (SAW), 6 hunting Misty Law-Queenside Hill 21 May (AB,IPG), pair with fledged b/3 at Monkshead 18 July, and a pair alarm-calling at Springside near Rowbank Resr on 23 July (IPG).

Breeding summary (table overleaf): 67 pairs reported from 44 sites in 2008. Notes: (i) pair b/3 fledged young Torr Hill Plantation at East Torr Farm 25 July (IPG); (ii) the Merryton Wood pair still using the original nest which was the first breeding record for the area in 2000 (AIE); (iii) pair reared 2 young Colgrain (DHMcE).

Buzzard breeding reports

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ardgowan Estate 1JVWEndrick Mouth 4DHM Merryton/Carbarns6AIE
Ardoch-Craigendoran9DHM Ferryhill Plantation1DSF Mid Natherton/Pedmyre 1SL
Auchness Bridge1MMcG Finnich Glen2AKM Monkshead 1IPG
Br of Weir, East Torr 1IPG Garscube Estate 1TBMuirshiel Country Park1CMRS
Coiregrogain 1ECDGartloch Woods1WMT Myre Hill 1JVW
Colgrain 1DHM Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm1SL Neilston Pad1JVW
Cowgill Loch1JVWGlasgow, Millichen Farms 1SL Newton Mearns, Pollok Estate 1JVW
Craigend Farm 1DK Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 1SL Queenside Muir1CMRS
Croy Wood 1SPM Glengavel Water1JVWRaith Burn 1CMRS
Culter Glen 1JVWKnockenae Plantation 1JVWRenfrew, Blythswood1ECD
Culter Waterhead 1ECDLang Craigs1ECDSpringside (NS4057) 1IPG
Daer Reservoir 1JVWLenzie 6DHM Torr Hill Plantation 1IPG
Daldowie 1CRS Linwood Pool 2GTW Walkinshaw Gardens 1GTW
Drumpellier Golf Crse 1CL Locherwood Comm Wood 1ECDWaulkmill Glen 1JVW
Dykebar 1TBMajeston 1MMcG

Autumn-winter reports included more than usual ground-foraging, presumably for invertebrates, on harvested silage fields Renfrewshire during Sep (IPG), 4 at Cathkin Braes on 4 Sep and 2 Oct (SAW), 4 Barr Loch 28 Oct (JL), 6 Colgrain 1 Nov (DHMcE), 5 sitting in a field Darleith 2 Dec (FL), and 1 hunting over Williamwood Golf Course on 12 Dec (JMcO).

Two observers reported a total of 1,006 Buzzard bird-days in 2008 (see table below).

Jan Feb MarApr MayJuneJuly AugSepOctNovDecTotal Observers
30 5744 70 107 62 683567 26 4265673 IPG
-2254 39 36 28 303832 18 1422333 JSW,VW
307998 109 143 90 987399 44 56871006 All
 

Barn Owl Tyto alba

Winter-spring reports were of one which flew over the M80 north of Stepps at 2210 hrs on 2 Jan (per JJM), one at Mid Barnaigh road end at 1149 hrs on 2 Jan, one Barnbrock Farm at 1150 hrs on 2 Jan (RCD), 2 at B786/Barnaigh junction at 1120 hrs on 2 Jan (IPG), one at Laigh Barnaigh at 0025 hrs on 3 Jan, one there at 0017 hrs on 24 Feb, one beside the B786 at Bankbrae at 2215 hrs on 8 Jan, one beside the B786 at Mid Barnaigh at 2220 hrs on 8 Jan, one flew across the B786 at Carruthmuir at 1702 hrs on 12 Jan, one at the B786/Barnaigh junction at 0110 hrs on 20 Jan (IPG), one there at 2015 hrs on 20 Jan (AB), two there at 2225 hrs on 22 Jan, one at 0040 hrs on 15 Feb (IPG), one beside the B786 at Sandieston at 1920 hrs on 13 Jan (IPG), one beside Robroyston Rd, Glasgow at 1900 hrs on 13 Jan (SMcg), one at Gleddoch Plantation on 16 Jan (DSF), 1‑2 Darleith 19 Jan-10 Feb (FL), one roosting in a barn at Crawfordjohn on 20 Jan (JDa), one Barnsford Road 20 Jan (ACMB), one flew across Barnsford Road at Glasgow Airport 23 Jan ( per JJM), one Langbank various dates 27 Jan-29 Apr (DSF), 2 Garadhban Forest 31 Jan, one Muirpark Resr 31 Jan (ABur), one Crosskeys, Glen Fruin 6 Feb and 18 Feb (ANi), one calling Colgrain 10 Feb (DHMcE), one beside the M74 at Larkhall 14 Feb (JBB), one at the NW corner of Birkmyre Park, Kilmacolm (NS349698) at 0320 hrs on 17 Feb (RCD,RM), one Aird Meadow 24 Feb (MA), one at the River Calder, Lochwinnoch 10 Mar (RSPB), one roosting in a barn at Barrance on 20 Mar and 10 May (JSW,VW), one East Fulwood 22 Mar, and one at Longhaugh Point on 22 Mar (AJY).

Breeding season reports involved 2 Darleith Apr-June, 3 on 11 July (FL), one at Elliston Farm, Howwood at 0020 hrs on 8 Apr (HAD,ECP), one at Cleuch Farm, Crawfordjohn 10 Apr (JDa), one hunting at Merryton 13-16 Apr during daylight, one hunting there at 0400 hrs on 15 June (AIE), one Glen Fruin on 16 Apr (ANi), 3 juvs Highfields Farm, Glen Fruin 16 June (MMcG), one by River Calder at Lochwinnoch 18 Apr (RSPB), one at Barnbrock Farm in evening 28 Apr (KMcG), one Muirshiel Country Park 30 Apr (CMRS), one calling at Colgrain 10 May (DHMcE), one hunting Plymuir-Caplaw Bridge 2115‑2230 hrs on 12 May (PHB,DLC), one hunting next to A80 at Mollinsburn (NS718719) at 0140 hrs on 21 May (JJM), one Langbank 24 May (DSF), one hunting near the Malletsheugh Inn, Newton Mearns at 2345 hrs on 6 June (SJM), one beside the B776 at Bogside Cottage 21 June (GBro), one along the unclassified road between Crawfordjohn and the B797 at 2230 hrs on 10 July (JDa), a pair in a barn at South Uplaw Farm (NS4454) on 18 July (PBr), a pair Shore Wood, Endrick Mouth 20 July, a pair b/2 in nestbox Wards Farm 20 July (IF), one on the Leadhills road out of Crawfordjohn at 2230 hrs on 28 July (JDa), one north of Lawpark on the B786 at Kilmacolm at 0040 hrs on 31 July, and one between Faulds and Auchenfoyle on the B788 at 0045 hrs on 31 July (ADW). Summary: 21 potential breeding territories reported in 2008, but only two cases of confirmed breeding (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports were of one hunting verge of A737 at Johnstone (NS427637) at 0005 hrs on 2 Sep (IPG,ECP), one beside Barnsford Road at Glasgow Airport at 0100 hrs on 10 Sep (ACMB), one hunting new woodland site at Caplaw (NS439592) at 2332 hrs on 18 Sep (IPG), one Langbank 30 Sep (DSF), one calling Colgrain 30 Sep, one hunting there at 0730 hrs on 6 Dec and 13 Dec (DHMcE), one across the B740 to Red Moss at 2020 hrs on 2 Oct, one at Crawfordjohn at 2050 hrs on 10 Oct (JDa), one hunting Robroyston Park LNR at 1700 hrs on 6 Oct (CRS), one at Knapps Loch on 8 Oct (per IPG), one Erskine Bridge 30 Oct (ADW), one Gartloch 1 Nov (TPD), one at Ballat crossroads on 4 Nov (JTW), one at Laigh Barnaigh at 2140 hrs on 1 Nov (IPG), one at Greenside at 0035 hrs on 7 Nov, one by the B786 opposite Mid Barnaigh road end at 2335 hrs on 8 Nov, one there again at 1855 hrs on 15 Nov (IPG), one beside Finlaystone Road above Cloak, Kilmacolm at 0145 hrs on 15 Nov (RCD), one on B786 roadside fence post at Midhouse at 2350hrs on 15 Nov (IPG), one Douglas Water Pools 28 Nov (DS), one hunting along hedgerows at Lea Farm, Ardoch (NS369762) at 1710 hrs on 6 Dec (WTL), one on a post in Craigbet Ave, Quarrier's Village, Bridge of Weir at 2345 hrs on 6 Dec (RCD), one Brookfield 10 Dec (DC), one Carnwath 10 Dec (JDa), one Langshot Farm on 15 Dec (PB), one at Shore Wood, Endrick Mouth on 15 Dec (MSt), 2 Darleith 20 Dec (FL), one by Blackburn Farm, Crawfordjohn at 0710 hrs on 24 Dec (JDa), one at Headless Cross near Shotts on 24 Dec (MD), one by the B786 just south of Barnbrock Farm at 2355 hrs on 25 Dec (IPG), the remains of one on a tree at Knockmountain on 26 Dec (DSF), and 2 at Red Road, Cardross on 27 Dec (FL).

 

Tawny Owl Strix aluco

Winter-spring reports were of 2 Calderglen Country Park 2 Jan (NWh), 1 Rowardennan 16 Jan and 1 Rowardennan Lodge 16 Jan (ABur), 3 (one ♂) Langbank 16 Jan (DSF), 1 Garadhban Forest 31 Jan, 1 at Muir Park Resr 31 Jan (ABur), a pair calling Colgrain 10 Feb (DHMcE), 1 Dolphinton 2-17 Feb, 2 on 3 Mar (AMcA), 1 Endrickvale 17 Feb-23 Apr (DAB), and 2 ♂♂ calling at Mainshill, Douglas on 27 Feb (AT).

Breeding reports were of a 3-4 week old chick at Holytown, taken into car 24 Feb (IL), one singing Greenock Crematorium 17 Mar (ADW), one calling Mearns Cross 21 Apr (IAM), heard Darleith Apr-June (FL), 2 prs Barscube Hill, where two juvs 11 Aug (DSF), pair b/2 Muirshiel Country Park (CMRS), 2 prs bred Merryton area (AIE), ♂ calling Finnich Glen 26 Mar (AKMcN), one Ben Lomond 7 May (ECD), one Gleddoch Plantation 14 May (DSF), one Ross Wood 24 May (JDo), one dead on A814 at Colgrain 25 May (DHMcE), a pair b/1 at South Crooks on 26 May (ADW), a juv Gryfe Plantation 4 July (MMcG), and one at Loch Thom on 30 July (MMcG).

Autumn-winter reports were of one calling Lochwinnoch Station 31 Aug (TB), one Ardmore 28 Oct (ECD), one Craigend Farm 2 Nov (DK), one Linn Park 4 Nov (CRS), and one at Bowfield, Howwood 6 Dec (GBro).

 

Long-eared Owl Asio otus

Breeding season reports were of 2 on north side of Loch Arklet on 27 Mar (ABur), one flushed adjacent to Tammy's Wood, Merryton 13 Apr (AIE), one Glen Fruin 16 Apr (ANi), one at Ranfurly Castle Golf Course, Bridge of Weir on 23 Apr, a pair hunting at same place 27 Apr (GT), one on nest Bleak Law 3 May (DT), one near Plymuir Bridge (NS428578) at 0035 hrs on 8 May, one near Rashiefield Bridge (NS405580) at 0040 hrs on 8 May, one near Bowfield Dam (NS402583) at 0042 hrs on 8 May, one hunting nearby at Bowfield Moss (NS396581), landing on rock close to observer at 2145 hrs on 18 May (IPG), a pair with young Cleuch Farm 9 June, and one along unclassified road between Crawfordjohn and the B797 at 2230 hrs on 10 July (JDa).

Autumn-winter reports included one in hedge on east side Balgray Resr 4 Sep (BGr), and one on a roadside fence post at Craigmuir (NS431597) at 2333 hrs on 18 Sep (IPG).

 

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus

Winter-spring reports were of one on Mistylaw Muir 13 Feb (ECD), one hunting from Calder valley towards Queenside Loch 29 Apr (KMcG).

Breeding season reports involved one on Stockie Muir 2 May (YB), one hunting there at 1930 hrs on 15 May (DO'B), again on 21 May (IF), 2 prs hunting there 16 June (DLC), 2 prs Loch Arklet 8 May (RSPB), two hunting over Red Moss SSSI (NS877261) on 19 May (JDa), one Bowfield Moss 19 May (DLC), 2-3 hunting at Corrieachan on 6 June (RAB), and a highly unusual report of one landing on the roof of Hall Farm, Lochwinnoch on 22 July (ZB).

Autumn-winter reports involved one Coplie Hill 13 Aug, one Muirshiel mine 16 Aug (CMRS), one hunting on Queenside Muir 29 Nov (GBro), 4 hunting Fereneze Braes, Barrhead between 1500-1600 hrs on 11 Dec, at least 3 on 13 Dec, 5 on 14 Dec, 3 on 27 Dec, 2 on 28 Dec (BGr,SJM,IPG et al).

 

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis

Winter-spring reports included one at Banton Loch on 1 Jan (LG), 2 fishing at Victoria Park Pond, Glasgow 26 Jan-2 Feb (CJMcI), one fishing White Cart Water at Paisley Cross 6 Feb, one fishing at confluence with Espedair Burn 15 Feb (GTW), one Pollok Country Park 14 Feb (JBB), one by the Forth & Clyde Canal at Cowgate, Kirkintilloch 17 Feb (LR), and one on the Forth & Clyde Canal at Maryhill on 27 Feb (JBB).

Breeding season reports were of a pair with b/2 on the White Cart Water at Linn Park (SAW), a pair on River Calder, Lochwinnoch (ZB), 2 on Forth & Clyde Canal at Dullatur 8 Apr (ABa), 1 along River Clyde at Dalmarnock 14 Apr (CRS), 1 River Clyde at Baron's Haugh 27 Apr (TB), 1 on Bothlin Burn at Lenzie 8 May (JTMcE), 1 Midross 27 June (ANi), a bird which flew into a window in Campbell Ave, near Gruggie's Burn, Dumbarton, flying off after recovering, on 7 July (JMad), and 1 on the River Clyde at Glasgow Green on 22 July (CRS). Summary: up to 9 potential breeding territories reported, but only one pair confirmed breeding in 2008. Under-recorded (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included one on River Kelvin at Summerston 7 Sep (CRS), one on River Gryfe at Linwood 2-11 Oct (DSF), one Ryat Linn 14 Oct (ECD), one Balgray Resr 24 Oct (SAW), one on Kip Water at Ardgowan Estate 17-18 Oct (FG), one on Forth & Clyde Canal at Kirkintilloch 31 Oct (JTMcE), one on River Kelvin at Garscube Estate 31 Oct (TB), and one at Richmond Park Pond, Glasgow on 5 Nov (CRS).

 

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major

Winter-spring reports included 1 calling Dougalston Loch 15 Jan (AKMcN), 1 Rowbank Resr 16 Jan (IPG), 2 Knockmountain 19 Jan (DSF), 1 calling Craigallian Plantation 24 Jan (AKMcN), 1 Corsliehill Wood 6 Feb (DSF), 1 Drumpellier Golf Course 11 Feb (CL), and a ♀ at Dowries Wood (NS269707) on 20 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or 'drumming' males)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Abington 1JBBErskine, Boden Boo1ECD Loch Lomond, Ross Park 1 ANi
Ballochruin Pool 1AKMFerryhill Plantation 3DSF Loch Lomond, Rowardennan 1 AKM
Barscube Hill 1DSF Finnich Glen 1AKM Loch Lomond, Sallochy 1 ECD
Ben Glas 1ECD Garadbhan Forest 1AKM Loch Lomond, Sallochy 1 AKM
Bishop Loch1CRS Garscube Estate 1TB Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 2 RSPB
Cairnhill Woods 1TB Garvock Lodge1MMcGLochwinnoch, Barr Loch1 RSPB
Calder Gl, Clovenstone 1CMRS Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 3SL Merryton3 AIE
Carron Valley Forest1AKMGlasgow, Cathkin Braes 1CRS Mid Hartfield Wood 1 IPG
Carruth Wood (South)1IPGGlasgow, Commonhead Moss1CRS Mugdock Country Park3 AKM
Cloch Caravans 1FG Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 1LMcB Muirshiel Country Park 1 CMRS
Colgrain1DHMGlasgow, Gartloch Woods1WMT Netherton of Glenboig Farm1 DAB
Craig of Neilston 1JVW Glasgow, Linn Park 2SAWNew Lanark1 MMcG
Craigmaddie Wood1AKMGlasgow, Queen's Park1CRS Paisley, Dykebar1 TB
Crowhill Wood 1ADW Glasgow, Springburn Pk 2CRS Renfrew Golf Course 1 ECD
Daldowie1CRS Glasgow, Tollcross Park 1CRS Renfrew, Blythswood 1 ECD
Darleith1FL Hawkhead Woodland1SPM Rowbank Plantation 1 IPG
Douglas, Long Plant.1AT Lawmarnock Wood 2IPG Torr Wood, Bridge of Weir 1 IPG
Dowries Wood 1IPGLinwood Moss1DSF Waulkmill Glen 1 JVW
Endrickvale 1DAB L Lomond, Inchconnachan 3AKM
Erskine Home Farm1ECD Loch Lomond, Midross 1ANi

Summary: 72 pairs reported from 58 sites in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 1 Knockmountain Farm 2 Sep, 1 Wemyss Point 6-17 Sep (IPG), 1 at Craigmarloch 4 Dec (DSF), 1 at garden feeder Broomknowe Rd, Kilmacolm 24 Dec (AB), 1 West Porton 28 Dec (ADW), 1 Auchentorlie Wood 30 Dec (IPG), and 1 drumming Balloch Country Park 31 Dec (AKMcN).

 

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis

Winter-spring reports were of 1 in woods west of Loch Bowie, Dumbarton on 14 Mar (IF), and 1 nearby at Lang Craigs on 25 Mar (ECD). Breeding season reports involved 1 at Tinto on 11 Apr (JBB), 1 calling Craigmaddie Wood 22 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Mugdock Wood 24 May (GJC), a pair feeding a juvenile at Lang Craigs on 12 July (IF), and 2 calling at Overtoun House on 15 July (DLC).

Autumn-winter reports were of 1 Dalzell Estate 21 July (SK), a highly unusual record, with photographs, of 1 feeding on ants on pavement in Leslie Ave, Newton Mearns, on 5 Aug, 9 Aug and 13 Aug (J Goode), 1 at Killearn playing field on 9 Aug, 30 Aug and 19 Sep (RAB), 1 at Garnkirk Moss Plantation, Glasgow 2 Sep, 1 calling at Craigallian Plantation 8 Sep (AKMcN), 1 calling Gateside, Barrhead on 22 Sep (DLC), 1 at Falls of Endrick 3 Nov (AKMcN), 1 Deil's Craig Dam 5 Nov (ECD), and 1 Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 7 Dec (DK).

 

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus

Breeding season reports included 8 hunting Misty Law-Queenside Hill 21 May (AB,IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Barscube Hill 1 DSFGlasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SLMillstone Rig1 JVW
Carbarns 1 AIEGlasgow, Windlaw Farm 1 SLMuirhouse Muir 1 AKMcN
Colgrain2 DHMcE Helensburgh Golf Course 1 DHMcEMuirmains Farm 1 SPM
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 1 SLLang Craigs 1 ECDMuirshiel Country Park 1 CMRS
Glasgow, Hamiltonhill 1 RGrLoch Ardinning 1 AKMcN Neilston Pad 1 JVW
Glasgow, Linn Park1 SAW Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 1 SLSouth Crooks1 ADW

Kestrel breeding summary: 19 pairs at 18 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) 2 prs bred 100m apart at Colgrain, original pair in hole in ash tree produced 3 young, fledged on early date of 27 June, new pair nested in old crow's nest failed (DHMcE); (ii) the pair at Linn Park fledged 3 young (SAW); (iii) an adult with b/4 Muirshiel Country Park 8 July (CMRS).

Autumn-winter reports included 5 Muirshiel Country Park 26 June (AKMcN), 7 there on 23 Aug (MMcG), 3 Queenside Muir 10 July (CMRS), 3 Lyles Hill 11 July, 2 Leapmoor Forest 2 Aug (MMcG), one flying NW across Firth of Clyde from Wemyss Bay towards Dunoon at 1810 hrs on 19 Aug (IPG), 3 at Creuch Hill on 27 Aug and 23 Sep (MMcG), 4 Craigend Farm 7 Oct (DK), 2 North Kerse 7 Nov (MMcG), and 3 chasing and calling over Linn Park Golf Course on 23 Nov (SAW).

Two observers reported a total of 660 bird-days in 2008, compared to 116 bird-days in the case of Sparrowhawk, i.e. 85% of sightings were of Kestrel (see table below).

JanFeb Mar AprMay June July AugSep Oct NovDec TotalObservers
153424403933492723183337372 IPG
3757522114473684DHMcE
- 183313917231926221410204 JSW,VW
18 59 62 60 53 72 83 50 53 47 50 53 660 All
 

Merlin Falco columbarius

Winter-spring reports were of a ♂ Milton Island 11 Jan (IPG), a ♂ at South Cathkin landfill 19 Jan (JJS), a ♀ at Linwood Moss 27 Jan (DSF), one Black Cart Water 27 Jan (AJR), one hunting in Wellmeadow St, urban Paisley on 13 Feb, a ♀ chasing Chaffinches Blackstoun-Candrens Farm 18 Feb (GTW), one at Tomtain, Campsie Fells 9 Mar (FH), one Craigend Farm 12 Mar (DK), one Gleniffer Braes at Foxbar, Paisley 13 Mar (GTW), and a ♂ at Ardgowan Estate on 14 Mar (JSW,VW).

Breeding season reports involved one on Tinto 11 Apr (JBB), a ♀ in Calder valley above Muirshiel Country Park on 13 Apr and 19-20 May (KMcG,JRe), a pair near Corlick Hill on 22 Apr (SJM), and one at Carron Valley Resr on 10 June (GJB).

Autumn-winter reports were of one Rowbank Resr 14 July (per RSPB), one Balgray Resr 16 Oct, (DLC), one Fannyside Lochs 18 Oct (AC-C), one at Craigend Farm on 19 Oct and 23 Nov (DK), one Darnley Glen 20 Oct (JSW,VW), a ♀ at Blackstone Mains Cottage hunting Fieldfares 31 Oct (GTW), one at Douglas Water Pool on 2 Nov, and a ♀ there on 28 Nov (DS).

 

Hobby Falco subbuteo

A juvenile was hawking for insects over Baron's Haugh between 1300-1530 hrs on 17 Aug (SLo), again at 1200 hrs on 22 Aug (JJM et al), and between Baron's Haugh and Carbarns Pool in the late afternoon of 31 Aug (SLo).

 

Peregrine Falco peregrinus

Winter-spring reports included an adult ♀ Colgrain 13 Jan (DHMcE), an adult ♂ perched on rock on mudflats off West Ferry 20 Jan (IPG), one Erskine STW 26 Jan (ECD), one Linn Park 1 Feb (SAW), one over Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow at 1730 hrs on 6 Feb (JJS), an imm ♀ at Yonderton 19 Mar (GTW), one at Newshot Island on 20 Feb and 28 Feb (ECD), a ♂ over Cathcart 28 Feb (JMcO).

Breeding season reports were of an adult ♂ over Cample Burn 5 Apr (IPG), a pair Queenside Muir 9 Apr (CMRS), one Kelvin Mouth 20 Apr (GJC), one at Endrick Mouth 24 Apr (AKMcN), an adult pair pursuing, and the ♀ catching, a homing pigeon over Creuch Hill 27 Apr (IPG), and one Yonderton 2 May (ECD). The only confirmed breeding report received was of a pair at a quarry in East Renfrewshire fledging 4 young (2 ♂♂) (JSW,VW). Details of breeding pairs withheld by Raptor Study Groups (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included one at Baron's Haugh 30 July (JBB), a ♀ at Anniesland Station 25 July (TB), a ♂ Colgrain 2 Aug (DHMcE), 2 Westerton 7 Aug (KF), a juv ♂ E over the SECC, Glasgow on 8 Aug (JJM), a juv ♀ Cloch Point 28 Aug (IPG), one Kelvingrove Park 4 Sep (CRS), one Longhaugh Point 8 Sep (AJR), one Cardross Bay 9 Sep, one Ardmore 11 Sep (ANi), 2 Craigend Farm 10 Sep (DK), an adult ♂ and an adult ♀ (separately) at Yonderton 18 Sep, one West Ferry 19 Sep (IPG), one Charing Cross, Glasgow 9 Oct (RSPB), a ♂ landing on a high-rise flat Gorbals St, Glasgow 14 Oct (JMcO), a ♂ Helensburgh GC 3 Nov, a ♀ chasing pigeons at Brooks, Cardross 10 Nov, a ♂ soaring Kingston Bridge, Glasgow 10 Nov (DHMcE), an imm ♀ Tollcross Park, Glasgow 11-28 Nov (CRS), one Windlaw Marsh 7 Dec (SAW), a ♀ Ledard Road, Battlefield on 7 Dec (JMcO), a ♂ on pylons Merryton 21 Dec (AIE), and one at Linn Park, Glasgow on 23 Dec (SAW).

 

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor

Winter-spring reports were of the wintering bird at Gryfe Plantation until at least 2 Jan (KMcG), and the wintering bird at Dumbrock Muir until at least 24 Mar (CJMcI, JMcM et al).

 

Jay Garrulus glandarius

Winter-spring reports involved 1 at Darleith 1 Jan (FL), 2 Mugdock Wood 2 Jan, 1 on 5 Jan (AKMcN), 4 there on 26 Jan and 24 Feb (GJC), 2 Merryton 6 Jan, 1 on 20 Feb (AIE), 1 on north side Kilmacolm (at NS360705) on 8 Jan (GG), 7 Finnich Glen 27 Jan, 2 on 1 Mar, and 8 Mar, 1 on 26 Mar, 2 on 1 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Parkhill Wood 31 Jan (ECD), 3 Strathblane 9 Feb (GJC), 1 at Linwood Moss on 10 Feb (DSF), 2 Ardpeaton 12 Feb (IPG), 1 Knockmountain 17 Feb (DSF), 2 at Duncryne 18 Feb (AKMcN), 1 Inveruglas 2 Mar (ECD), 1 Ardmore Point 4-13 Mar (HAD,JDo), 1 Corse Hill 16 Mar (JSW,VW), and 2 at Mambeg on 31 Mar (AMcI).

Breeding season reports were of 1 at Endrick Mouth 12 Apr, 1 Finnich Glen 21 Apr (AKMcN), 2 Craigend Farm, Strathblane 2 May (DK), 1 Sallochy 4-5 May (ECD,IM), 1 Auchineden 5 May (GJB), 1 Yetson 13 May (DSF), 1 Dumbrock Loch 20 May (ECD), 1 Thornlybank Hill 21 June (DSF), 1 Darleith 25 June (FL), 4 (a family party) Claddoch 7 July (MMcG), 2 Glen Moss 27 July (DSF), and 2 at Carrot on 27 July (WB).

Autumn-winter reports involved 2 at Endrick Mouth on 2 Aug and 14 Aug (DHMcE,IF), 1 at Loch Ardinning 8 Aug, 1 Claddoch 18 Aug (AKMcN), 1 Glen Luss 22 Aug (HS), 1 at Killoeter Plantation on 22 Aug and on 4 Sep (FL), 1 calling at Long Plantation, Douglas on 9 Sep and 23 Sep (AT), 2 Merryton 20 Sep, 1 on 26 Sep, 2 on 11-28 Oct (AIE), 1 flying from Barochan House to Barochan Moss 21 Sep (IPG), 2 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane 26 Sep (DK), 1 Strathclyde Country Park 5 Oct (IL), 1 Balmaha 18 Oct (JMcO), 1 Linwood Moss 21 Oct, 2 on 8 Nov and 29 Dec (DSF), 6 Mugdock Wood 22 Oct (GJC), 2 Killoeter 27 Oct (FL), 4 Bardrain Glen 30 Oct (per GTW), 1 at Gartloch on 1 Nov, 2 on 4 Nov and 8 Dec (TPD), 2 Inveruglas 1 Nov (JTT), 1 at Castlebank, Port Glasgow 1 Nov, 2 Barscube Hill 2 Nov (DSF), 1 Baron's Haugh 2 Nov (JCM), 2 Dumbrock Loch 5 Nov (ECD), 1 Houston House 16 Nov (GB), 1 Balmaha 6 Dec (AT), and 2 at Darleith on 29 Dec (FL).

 

Magpie Pica pica

A single bird, which had been on the south side of Ardmore Point since 2007, had secured a mate by 13 Feb (IPG); other winter-spring counts included 24 Glasgow Rd, Dumbarton 7 Jan (DHMcE), 24 Mosspark 19 Jan (SPM), 45 Tollcross Park 15 Feb (CRS), and 25 by the Forth & Clyde Canal, Maryhill on 27 Feb (JBB).

Breeding reports (prs = apparently occupied nests or pairs with recently fledged young)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs
Balgray Reservoir2 JVW Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 1 SL Muirshiel Country Park 1 IPG
Barcraigs Reservoir1 GBroGlasgow, Tollcross Park 2 CRS Strathclyde CP, N Haugh 2 IL
Dowries Farm 3 IPGLangbank 6 DSF
Endrickvale1 DAB Merryton/Carbarns 4 AIE

Summary: 23 pairs at 10 sites reported in 2008. A highly under-recorded species (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 30 Newshot Island 8 Aug (AJR), 35 Crookston 11 Dec (SPM).

 

Jackdaw Coloeus monedula

Winter-spring reports included 190 at Blackstoun Farm on 13 Jan (DSF), and 140 at East Millichen Farm on 25 Jan (AKMcN).

Jackdaw breeding reports

Site PrsObsSite PrsObs
F&C Canal, Cadder Bridge 1 SPMMugdock CP Visitor Centre 1 AKMcN
F&C Canal, Ruchill1 SPMNewton Mearns, Pilmuir Quarry 20 JVW
Merryton/Carbarns 3 AIE Pollok Country Park2 SPM
Mugdock Country Park 1 GJC

Summary: 29 pairs at 7 sites reported in 2008. A very poorly recorded species (ed.).

Autumn-winter counts included 150 East Millichen Farm 11 Sep (CRS), and 200 at Cardross 24 Dec (JBB).

 

Rook Corvus frugilegus

Winter-spring reports included 200 East Millichen Farm 25 Jan (AKMcN).

Rookery nest counts

Rookery site NestsDate ObsRookery siteNestsDate Obs
Auchengrange (NS371572)1023 AprIPG Howwood, village centre 1520 AprIPG
Baldernock Church414 AprAKM Johnstone, Fordbank4924 AprIPG
Baldernock House 162 18 AprAKM Johnstone, Shanks Park 426 AprIPG
Baldernock Mill 2414 AprAKM Low Merryton Farm 525 AprAIE
Barnbrock Fm (pines, new)922 May IPG Milngavie, Boghall 018 AprAKM
Bridge of Weir, Houston Rd 7921 AprIPG Milngavie, Chestnut Lane317 AprAKM
Brookfield (NS418645) 4222 AprIPG Milngavie, Douglas Academy 1715 AprAKM
Brownsfield Farm 4214 May GTW Milngavie, Dumgoyne Ave 215 AprAKM
Craig of Neilston6314 AprJVWMilngavie, Hunter Rd (new) 1412 AprAKM
Daldowie259 19 AprCRS Milngavie, Main's (north)4717 AprAKM
Dougalston (north)7014 AprAKM Milngavie, Main's (south)2615 AprAKM
Dougalston (south) 2315 AprAKM Newton Mns, Fingalton Rd 152 28 AprJVW
Elderslie, Auchenlodment Rd 8919 AprIPG Newton Mns, Mearns Castle 2630 MarJVW
High Banton3824 MarPGC Newton Mearns, Mearnskirk 1413 AprJVW
Houston, Chapel Road 5127 AprIPG Newton Mearns,Kirkhill 622 MarJVW
Howwood, The Glen (new) 920 AprIPG

Summary: 1,401 occupied nests counted at 31 rookeries in 2008. Notes included: (i) the Elderslie rookery had 77 nests on 29 Mar, increased to 89 by 19 Apr (IPG); (ii) first fledged young Langbank 25 May (DSF).

Autumn-winter reports included 500 at Darleith 15 Nov (FL), 150 at pre-roost Colgrain 30 Nov (DHMcE), 200 at Cardross on 24 Dec (JBB), and 290 at Old Greenock Road, Erskine on 31 Dec (ACMB).

 

Carrion Crow Corvus corone

Winter-spring reports included 10 on roof of the Waterfront Leisure Centre, Greenock on 29 Jan, and 31 feeding in a slurried field at Laigh Auchencloich on 15 Feb (IPG).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Balgray Reservoir1 JVW Finnich Glen 1 AKM Lochcraig Reservoir1 JVW
Bearsden, Stockiemuir Ave 1 AKM Glasgow, Carbarns Farm 1 SLMerryton/Carbarns 6 AIE
Carrot 1 JVW Glasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SLMilngavie, Chestnut Lane 1 AKM
Darnley Mill 2 JVW Glasgow, Tollcross Park 1 CRS Myres Hill1 JVW

Summary: 18 pairs at 12 sites reported in 2008. A seriously under-recorded species (ed.). The recent upsurge in persecution was maintained in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde (IPG), perhaps more widely (ed.).

Autmn-winter reports included 60 Cardowan Bing 30 June (CRS), and 20 Blackstoun Farm 12 Oct (GTW).

 

Carrion x Hooded Crow Corvus corone x cornix

Reports included 1 Cardross 12 Jan (JBB), an almost pure Hooded Crow at Kenmure Hill on 3 Jan, 2 hybrids at High Burnside 19 Feb, an almost pure Hooded Crow at Midhouse at least 24 Feb-2 Aug, presumed same bird Moniabrock 12 Sep, a hybrid Ladymuir 12 Apr, 1 at Luss 14 Apr, 1 at Chapel Farm, Houston at least 24 Apr-6 May, a hybrid juv with C. corone sibling at Muirshiel Country Park 4 July, an almost pure Hooded Crow in Calder Glen just below Heathfield on 13 July (IPG), 1 Weston 2 Sep (ADW), 1 with 20 Carrion Crows at Hareshawhill Farm 4 Sep, 1 at Greenock Esplanade 6 Sep, 1 at Moniabrock 12 Sep, 1 Cardwell Bay 14 Sep, 1 at Greenock Waterfront cinema car park 14 Sep (IPG), 1 at Castle Semple Loch 16 Oct (MMcG), 1 Cardross 1 Dec, and 2 at Strathclyde Country Park on 21 Dec (JBB).

 

Hooded Crow Corvus cornix

Reports included 1 at Temple, Howwood on 31 Jan (ECD), 1 Darleith 9 Feb (FL), 2 Coiregrogain 2 Mar, 3 at Inveruglas 2 Mar, 2 Ben Lomond 18 Mar, 4 Loch Sloy 29 Mar (ECD), 1 Locherwood Community Woodland 26 Apr, 1 Heathfield Farm 2 July, 25 Aug, 2 on 4 Sep, 1 Queenside Muir 7 July (CMRS), 2 Sloy Dam 8 July (ECD), 2 Stuchivoulich 16 Aug (SPM), 1 Clovenstone 8 Sep (CMRS), 2 at Parklea Playing Fields 20 Oct (DSF), and 22 at head of Loch Long on 22 Oct (JTT). Some reports, particularly south of the Clyde, may be misidentification of hybrids (ed.).

 

Raven Corvus corax

Reports at start of year included 2 Knockmountain on 3 Jan and 19 Jan (DSF), 2 at NE end of Castle Semple Loch 3 Jan (IPG), a pair Finnich Glen 7 Jan-1 Mar (AKMcN), 4 Muirshiel Country Park 26 Jan (CMRS), 2 on 30 Mar (IPG), 2 Peaton Hill 4 Feb (AMcI), a pair over Black Cart Water at Inchinnan 14 Feb (GTW), 1 NE over Maryhill Park 15 Feb (TPD), 3 Colgrain 23 Feb (DHMcE), 18 feeding on a dead ewe at Mid Hartfield Farm on 28 Feb, still 8 there on 6 Mar, 20 at Hartfield Farm 25 Mar, 24 on 29 Mar, at least 24 going to roost there on 1 Apr (IPG), 2 Muirhouse Muir 1 Mar, 2 Coiregrogain 2 Mar (ECD), a pair Craig Minnan 4 Mar (CMRS), 2 Killoeter 7 Mar (FL), a pair Carron Valley Forest 9 Mar, 3 on 13 Apr (AKMcN), 14 N low over Aird Meadow, two in 'tumbling' display, at 1040 hrs on 12 Mar (IPG,SJM), a pair at Underheugh on 15 and 21 Mar (FG), a pair Moyne Moor 17 Mar (JSW,VW), 3 Meikle Bin 23 Mar (JTT), 2 Lang Craigs 25 Mar (ECD), 4 Queenside Muir 3 Apr (CMRS), 1 Cowgill Upper Resr 9 Apr (ECD), 2 New Lanark 21 Apr (MMcG), and a pair Drumshangie Moss 27 Apr (KH).

Breeding reports involved 12 pairs nesting Renfrewshire (9 on pylons, 1 on a communications mast, 2 in quarries), at least 9 pairs successful rearing 28 young (a good year), outcome unknown at three sites (IPG, SJM,JSW,VW et al); in Lanarkshire a pair fledged 2 young on 18 May at a confidential site in the City of Glasgow (JM,RKP)Perhaps add JC?; believed to be considerably under-recorded in the county, particularly South Lanarkshire (ed.); disappointingly again, information for West Stirlingshire withheld by Central Scotland Raptor Study Group and other observers (ed.); and a similar non-reporting situation with only one breeding pair reported West Dunbartonshire (JM). A pair which nested at Barcraigs Reservoir (Ayrshire part, but foraging also in Renfrewshire) had apparently failed by 12 May, still present 26 June, although two fledged juvs seen at Brownmuir Plantation (Ayrshire) on 28 June may have been their brood (IPG).

Non-breeding/summer-winter reports included 2 at Barscube Hill 15 May-12 Aug and 22 Oct (DSF), 6 at Muirshiel Country Park on 17 June, 18 on 27 Sep, a pair b/2 at former Calder Dam site 8 July (CMRS), 4 Newshot Island 23 June (AJR), 5 Darleith 2 July (FL), 1 Marshall Moor 10 July (IPG), 11 Queenside Muir 30 July, 27 Tandlemuir 15 Aug (CMRS), 7 E over Endrick Mouth 18 Aug (AKMcN), 4 at Knockmountain on 28 Aug (DSF), 2 Hill of Barnaigh 28 Aug, 10 in three groups (of 3, 3 and 4) heading N over Hareshawhill towards Mid Hill, Whitelee Forest circa 1800 hrs on 4 Sep (IPG), 2 in conifers Endrick Mouth 21 Sep (RAB), 7 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 16 Oct (DK), 2 Castle Semple Loch 16 Oct (MMcG), 2 Linn Park 7 Nov (SAW), 4 at Colgrain 15 Nov (DHMcE), 2 at Craigmarloch 4 Dec (DSF), 2 at Darroch Park, Gourock on 8 Dec (per RSPB), 1 high over Merryton 21 Dec (AIE), and a pair at East Barnaigh on 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus

Winter-spring reports were of 8 at Glendee Gardens, Renfrew on 2 Jan (ECD,FH), 4 in Briarcroft Estate, Robroyston on 19 Jan, 1 on 21 Jan (SE), 6 feeding on berries along the B799 Jerviston Road (at NS762585), Motherwell on 28 Feb, still 3 there on 4 Mar, at least 2 on 5 Mar (DJA), 19 in Woodcroft Ave, Broomhill 3 Mar, 9 on 17 Mar, 10 on 18 Mar, 16 on 19-20 Mar, 2 on 22 Mar, 4 on 24-26 Mar (RGRi), and 10 the junction of London Rd/Arcadia St, Glasgow on 10 Mar (BG).

Autumn-winter reports involved in Helensburgh 2 in Victoria Rd on 3 Nov (ANi), 1 in Dalmore Crescent 16 Nov (HS), 8 in King St 16 Nov (JMa), 50 in Havelock area 17 Nov, 40 Colquhoun St 19 Nov, 70 on 21 Nov, 11 on 29 Dec (ANi); in Inverclyde 1 at Gourock Ferry Terminal on 9 Nov, 1 on 10 Nov (FG), 8 Craigmarloch 4 Dec (DSF); in the City of Glasgow 11 in Woodcroft Ave, Broomhill on 10 Nov, 1 on 12 Nov, 157 on 17 Nov, max 200 on 18 Nov, 23 on 20 Nov, 51 on 21 Nov, 71 on 22 Nov, 160 on 23 Nov, 165 on 25 Nov, 80 on 29 Nov, 24 on 16 Dec, 50 on 22 Dec, 43 on 23 Dec, 26 on 24 Dec, 37 on 25 Dec (RGRi), 75 Govanhill Park 11 Nov, 40 on 12 Nov (JMcO), max 240 on 13 Nov (AKMcN), 70 on 19 Nov, 20 over Sinclair Drive, Battlefield 14 Nov, 13 on 2 Dec (JMcO), 12 Kennishead/Priesthill railway station 18 Nov (JMcO), 100 on 18 Dec (JCh), 50 King George V Bridge, Glasgow 20 Nov, 20 Devon St, Gorbals 20 Nov (JMcO), 20 Dawsholm Park 21 Nov (TB), 200 Kelvingrove Park 21 Nov, 30 Botanic Gardens 22 Nov, 30 over on 30 Nov, 100 Victoria Park 23 Nov (CJMcI), 40 in Shanks St on 23 Nov, 30 on 20 Dec (GRB), 10 Garscube Estate 25 Nov, 91 on 1 Dec, 91 on 2 Dec, 11 on 4 Dec, 28 on 23 Dec, 4 at Morrisons, Anniesland on26 Nov (TB), 25 over Linn Park towards Muirend on 27 Nov (SAW), 100 over Crossmyloof railway station 27 Nov, 30 at Maxwell Park railway station 27 Nov (JMcO), 1 at Esquire's, Anniesland on 28 Nov, 14 over Anniesland Garden Centre 28 Nov (TB), 9 Crookston Castle 30 Nov (SPM), 70 Strathcona St, Anniesland 4 Dec, 60 on 6 Dec (RGRi), 150 in Fulton Rd on 6 Dec (CJMcI), 1 Carmichael Place, Battlefield 8 Dec (JMcO), 25 Solway St, Dalmarnock 10 Dec (DKe), 53 Beaconsfield St, Glasgow 11 Dec (DMcC), 12 Silver Glade, Crookston 14 Dec (SPM); in East Renfrewshire 40 over Netherlee Road, Netherlee 15 Nov (SAW), 4 at Broom shops, Newton Mearns 18 Nov (JMcO), 44 in Spean St, Cathcart 19 Nov (JMcO), 40 Linn Park Avenue, Netherlee 18 Nov, 32 over Linn Park towards Cathcart 19 Nov (SAW), 120 at corner of Linn Park Ave, Netherlee 20 Nov (SAW), 18 on 22 Nov, 100 on 23 Nov (JMcO), 180 on hawthorns Netherlee PS 23 Nov, 40 over Netherlee Rd towards school 24 Nov, 50 in First Ave, Netherlee on 25 Nov (SAW), 40 at Williamwood Golf Course 2 Dec, 55 on 14 Dec (SAW), 40 behind Netherlee Park Autos 2 Dec (SAW), 20 at Old Mearns Rd, Clarkston on 7 Dec, 120 at Clarkston Toll 8 Dec, 12 at Stamperland shops, Clarkston, on 9 Dec, 35 on 11 Dec (JMcO); in North Lanarkshire 30 Primrose Cresc, Motherwell 17 Nov (JE), 60 in Burnhead St, Uddingston 20-23 Nov, 100 on 25 Nov, 60 on 26-29 Nov (TF), 30 Oxgang, Kirkintilloch 9 Dec (CM); in Renfrewshire 24 Hunter St, Paisley 23 Nov, 45 on 4 Dec (ECD), 7 Newshot Island 28 Nov (AJR), 170 Gilmour House, Paisley 3 Dec, 185 at junction of Gauze St and Lawn St, Paisley 3 Dec (TB), 54 Newshot Island 3 Dec (ECD), 250 Kirklandneuk Park, Renfrew 22 Dec, 3 on 24 Dec, 18 in Porterfield Rd, Renfrew 24 Dec, 6 on 26-27 Dec, 55 on 29 Dec (ECD), 2 in Linburn Rd, Erskine 25-27 Dec, 4 Barnsford Rd 27 Dec, 60 on 29 Dec (ACMB), 40 Westway Works, Renfrew 27 Dec (ECD); in Bearsden 60 Killermont Road 29 Nov (JA), 15 over Westerton Station 5 Dec (AKMcN), 7 Dirleton Gate 7 Dec (SMcK); in South Lanarkshire 29 Merryton 30 Nov (AIE), 25 Cherrytree Place, Strathaven on 5 Dec (SCo); and in West Stirlingshire 1 over Killearn on 1 Dec and 11 Dec, 12 perched in garden Killearn 12 Dec, 13 on 13 Dec (RAB), and 10 at Balmaha on 5 Dec (JBB).

 

Coal Tit Periparus ater

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs ObsSite Prs ObsSitePrs Obs
Balloch7LMcB Drumpellier Golf Course1CLMerryton/Carbarns 5AIE
Barscube Hill 6DSF Ferryhill Plantation 3DSF Milngavie, Low Craigton 1AKM
Black Linn Reservoir 1SPM Finnich Glen 2AKM Milngavie, Mains Estate1AKM
Brown Hill Plantation1SPM Glasgow, Bingham's Pond1LMcB Muirshiel Country Park 2CMRS
Carron Valley Forest 1AKM Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 8LMcB Myres Hill 4JVW
Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 4CRS Glasgow, Ruchill Park 2LMcB Pollok Country Park 3SPM
Corse Hill 3JVWLangbank 6DSF Strathclyde CP, N Haugh 3IL
Craigallian Plantation5AKM Loch Ardinning 1ECD
Crookston 1SPM Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw 4JL

Summary: 76 pairs at 25 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first fledged young Howwood on 18 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter counts included 12 in an Ailsa Dr, Giffnock garden 2 Nov (ACMB).

 

Willow Tit Poecile montanus

The species appears to be on the verge of extinction in the Clyde area, with only one reported in 2008 (ed.): at Wishaw on 15 Feb (JCM).

 

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus

Winter-spring reports included counts of 24 Anniesland, Glasgow 11 Jan (RGRi), 20 at Mosspark on 19 Jan (SPM), 25 Aird Meadow 4 Mar (RSPB), and 15 at Finnich Glen on 26 Mar (AKMcN).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Allander Toll1 AKM Endrick Mouth 2 AKM Langbank 10DSF
Arkleston Farm 2 SPMEndrickvale 1 DAB Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 9 JL
Balloch 29LMcBFerryhill Plantation 10DSFMerryton/Carbarns 7 AIE
Baron's Haugh16RSPB Finnich Glen 1 AKM Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 5 SL
Barscube Hill 4 DSFGlasgow, Carnbooth Farm 13SLMilngavie, Mains Estate 1 AKM
Brownside Braes 6 TB Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 23LMcBMugdock Country Park2 AKM
Buchley Pool2 AKM Glasgow, Millichen Farms 11SLMuirshiel Country Park 1 CMRS
Carntyne Station 1 AKM Glasgow, Ruchill Park 10LMcBPollok Country Park 6 SPM
Craigallian 1 AKM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 3 SLRenfrew, Marjory Road1 ECD
Crookston 3 SPMGlasgow Green 1 CRSStrathclyde C P, North Haugh6 IL
Dougalston (south)2 AKM Hawkhead Estate3 SPMStrathclyde C P, Roman Fort 2 IL
E K, Heritage Park 2 SPMHogganfield Park LNR 2 LMcBTreesbank 1 SD

Summary: 200 pairs at 36 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first fledged juvs noted Langbank 30 May (DSF); (ii) proved extremely difficult to locate in woodland Atlas surveys in Renfrewshire during July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 30 Newshot Island 16 June (AJR), 20 Boden Boo 5 Aug (AJR), 18 Merryton 23 Aug (AIE), 14 Barscube Hill 7 Sep (DSF), 20 Fintry 9 Sep (NT), and 20 Baron's Haugh 11 Nov (TF).

 

Great Tit Parus major

Winter-spring reports included a ♂ in full song at Dougalston Golf Course on 1 Jan (AKMcN), and a ♂ in full song at Knowes, Linwood on 29 Jan (IPG).

Breeding summary (table over): 180 pairs at 38 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first clutch in nest box Rowardennan 24 Apr, earlier than usual (per IF); (ii) first fledged juvs Langbank 29 May (DSF).

Great Tit breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObsSite PrsObsSite PrsObs
Balgray Reservoir 1 JVWEndrickvale1 DABMerryton/Carbarns20 AIE
Baron's Haugh 21 RSPB Erskine, Boden Boo1 AJR Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 3 SL
Barscube Hill6 DSF Ferryhill Plantation 8 DSF Milngavie, Lennox Park2 AKM
Brownside Braes6 TBGlasgow, Carnbooth Farm 15 SL Milngavie, Mains Estate 1 AKM
Buchley Pool 1 AKM Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 3 CRS Netherton of Glenboig Farm 1 DAB
Carbeth Loch 1 AKM Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 14 LMcB Newton Mearns, Kirkhill1 JVW
Craigallian Pltn. 2 AKM Glasgow, Millichen Farms9 SL Pollok Country Park7 SPM
Crookston3 SPM Glasgow, Necropolis 1 CRS Renfrew Golf Course 6 ECD
Croy Quarry1 SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm3 SL Renfrew, Marjory Road 1 ECD
Darnley Glen 1 JVWKilmardinny Loch2 AKM Ryat Linn Reservoir 1 JVW
Dougalston (south) 4 AKM Langbank 10 DSF Strathclyde CP, N Haugh 7 IL
Dougalston Loch 2 AKM Loch Ardinning 2 AKM Treesbank 1 SD
Endrick Mouth 1 AKM Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw 10 JL
 

Skylark Alauda arvensis

Winter-spring reports included 150 Arkleston Farm, Paisley 7 Jan (ECD), 30 Cardross 11 Jan (JBB), 80 at Blackstoun Farm, Paisley/Linwood 13 Jan, max count 300 on 2 Feb, 100 on 4 Feb, 130 on 10 Feb (DSF, GTW), 130 at Candrens Farm 6 Feb, 80 on 14 Feb (GTW), 34 Craigmarloch 16 Feb, 30 by River Gryfe at Houston 1 Mar (DSF), 15 Shielhill Farm 14 Mar (MMcG), and 100 at Douglas Estate on 16 Apr (JBB).

Reports of return to breeding territories included 1 Endrick Mouth 11 Feb (ANi), 5 in song at Barscube Hill 18 Feb (DSF), 2 singing ♂♂ in fields N of Hartfield Moss 28 Feb (IPG), and 3 in song Darleith 11 Mar (FL).

Breeding reports (prs = mainly singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObsSite PrsObs SitePrsObs
Allander/Kelvin conf 1 AKM Cairncurran Hill 1 SPM Endrick Mouth 3 AKM
Ardmore Point 1 AKM Cameron Muir 3 AKMF&CC, Bishopbriggs1 SPM
Barscube Hill 8 DSF Cander Moss SWT 3 SK F&CC, Glasgow Bridge 1 SPM
Bennan Loch 3 JVWDarleith 3 FL F&CC, Torrance1 SPM
Bleak Law 3 DTDrumgrain Moss 1 JVW F&CC,Wilderness Pltn1 SPM
Buchley Pool 1 AKM Dumbrock Muir 1 AKMFinnich Glen1 AKM
Site Prs ObsSite Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Glasgow, Millerston 1CRS Lamington 1JVWRobroyston Park LNR1CRS
Glasgow, Millichen Farms15SL Loch Thom 1SPM Springhill Farm1 9IPG
Glasgow, Windlaw Farm13SL Lochcraig Reservoir2JVWThe Meetings2SPM
Gleniffer Braes3SPM Lyles Hill1CMRS Town of Inch-Barnsford 3GTW
Greenfield Hill1JVWMerryton/Carbarns 4AIE Treesbank 3SD
Gryfe Plantation1MMcG Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 7SL Walls Hill4IPG
Harelaw Resr, Port Glasgow 6DSF Muirhouse Muir 2AKM Windy Hill (unspecified area) 30 GBro
Helensburgh Reservoir1ANi Muirshiel Country Park 6CMRS
Kaim Moss 6IPG Neilston Pad 1JVW

1 all in one grass field, opposite farmhouse

Summary: 161 pairs at 43 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: 1 pair failed Merryton/Carbarns due to silage cutting 1 June (AIE), which now prevails throughout the Clyde area (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 200 Fulwood 13 Oct, 124 Town of Inchinnan 16 Oct, 200 on 21 Oct (GTW), 45 Cathkin Braes, Glasgow 31 Oct (SAW), 40 on 9 Nov (IL), 1 over Athole Gardens, Hyndland 1 Nov (CJMcI), 140 Blackstoun Farm 3 Dec (DSF), 300 Netherton, Renfrew 4 Dec (GTW), 130 Peathill 13 Dec (ADW), and 35 West Porton 28 Dec (JND,ADW).

 

Sand Martin Riparia riparia

The first spring arrivals were 1 at Strathclyde Country Park on 4 Mar (JCM), 2 on 15 Mar (ECD), followed by 12 at Strathclyde Loch on 18 Mar (IF), 21 there on 19 Mar (AGJ), 30 on 31 Mar (CJMcI), 100 on 7 Apr (DM), 150 on 12 Apr (RGRi), 5 over R Clyde at Daldowie 29 Mar (AKMcN), 10 Endrick Water at Drymen Bridge 2 Apr (RAB), 14 Balgray Resr 5 Apr (SAW), 130 Bardowie Loch 6 Apr (AKMcN), 9 at Castle Semple Loch on 8 Apr (ECD), 180 on 23 Apr (IPG), 10 Linwood Moss 12 Apr (DSF), 3 Renfrew Golf Course 2 Apr (ECD), 12 Barnsford Bridge 13 Apr (AJR), 75 Wards Pond, Endrick Mouth 18 Apr (CJMcI), and 180 at Castle Semple Loch in the evening of 23 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = apparently occupied burrows)

SitePrs ObsSite Prs Obs
Allander/Kelvin conf 3 AKMcN Powbrone Burn25JVW
Black Cart Water, Barnsford Bridge 2 GTW River Clyde, Merryton 154AIE
Green Water, Burnbank Bridge18IPG River Gryfe, Birkenhead 40FH

Summary: 242 pairs at 6 colonies reported in 2008. Supplementary note: ca 35 birds, some excavating burrows, at Burnbank Bridge (Green Water) on 3 May, but all failed (IPG).

Summer-autumn reports included 400 feeding over water at Endrick Mouth 29 June (DHMcE), 1 there 7 Sep (JBB), 400 feeding over fields east of Newshot Island 17 July, 2 on 8 Sep (AJR), 2 Balgray Resr 14 Sep (PHB, DLC), and 6 at Lunderston Bay on 28 Sep (FG).

 

Swallow Hirundo rustica

A very early bird was at Netherton Farm, Abbotsinch on 19 Mar (GTW), and 1 at Cloch Point on 26 Mar (FG), followed by 2 Bridge of Weir 3 Apr (DC), 1 Wintercleuch 3 Apr (GGa), 2 Carbarns Pool 4 Apr (AIE), 2 over the Endrick Water at Croftamie (AS), 3 at the south end of Loch Lomond 4 Apr (NC), 2 at Millersneuk Marsh 5 Apr (FC), 1 at Ballochruin Pool 5 Apr, 1 at Bardowie Loch 6 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Auchendores Resr 8 Apr (ECD), 1 Harelaw Resr, Barrhead 11 Apr (SJM), 1 Aird Meadow 11 Apr (RSPB), 1 Garscube Estate 11 Apr (TB), 1 NW past Rottenburn Bridge 12 Apr (IPG), 40 Balgray Resr 13 Apr (JJS), 1 Erskine 14 Apr (AJR), 2 Inversnaid 16 Apr (RSPB), 2 ♂♂ singing at West Corseford Farm 22 Apr, 11 Castle Semple Loch 23 Apr (IPG), 20 Black Cart Water 23 Apr (AJR), 23 Picketlaw Resr 23 Apr (MMcL), 1 Chapel Farm Pool 24 Apr, 11 Caplaw Dam 26 Apr, present at most Renfrewshire farm steadings by 26-27 Apr, and passage 2 NW over Creuch Hill 8 May (IPG).

Breeding summary (table overleaf): 48 pairs at 17 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first fledged juvs Howwood area 27 June, second broods fledging last week July; generally a good breeding season West Renfrewshire despite poor summer (IPG); (ii) first young noted Linn Park 27 June, second broods on 22 July (SAW).

Swallow breeding reports

SitePrs ObsSite Prs ObsSitePrs Obs
Allander Toll1 AKM Glen Fruin, Highfields 15MMcG Mid Netherton/Pedmyre2 SL
Barnbrock Farm 4 IPG Greenock, James Watt Dock 1 ADW Mugdock CP Visitor Centre 1 AKM
Carbarns Farms3 AIE Harelaw Dam (hut)1 JVW Muirshiel CP Visitor Centre 1 AKM
Creuch Hill (hut) 1 IPG Langbank5 DSF Netherton of Glenboig Fm 1 DAB
Finnich Toll 2 AKM Loch Lomond, Inchcailloch 1 AKM Newton Mearns, Barrance 3 JVW
Glasgow, Millichen Farm 3 SL Lochwinnoch, Calder Bridge3 RSPB

Autumn counts and departure included 100 Temples 7 Sep (MMcL), 200 Endrick Mouth 7 Sep (JBB), major departure of juvs Renfrewshire 17 Sep (IPG), 38 Newshot Island 19 Sep (AJR), 4 at Lunderston Bay 30 Sep (FG), 5 Leven marshes 1 Oct (JBB), 11 feeding over Barrodger Farm evening 5 Oct (IPG), 8 Ballochcruin Bridge 11 Oct (AKMcN), 2 Millichen 11 Oct (JC), 8 Barrhead 13 Oct (DLC), 2 Coulter 14 Oct, and 2 at Kirkhill on 15 Oct (JSW,VW). Late birds were 1 Waulkmill Glen Resr 20 Oct (JJS), 6 Strathaven 21 Oct, 2 on 22 Oct, 6 on 23 Oct (ADW), 2 Barnsford Bridge 21 Oct (GTW), 2 Castle Semple Loch 22 Oct (MMcG), 1 at Newshot Island 26 Oct (ACMB), 1 Linn Park 28 Oct (SAW), an adult Harelaw Resr, Barrhead 29 Oct (SJM), 2 Chatelherault Country Park 29 Oct (CMW), an adult and 2 juvs Darnley Glen 31 Oct (JSW,VW), and 7 at Baron's Haugh on 2 Nov (JCM).

 

House Martin Delichon urbicum

An exceptionally early individual was at Baron's Haugh on 19 Mar (RSPB), followed by another one there on 12 Apr (DJA), 3 Barnsford Bridge 12 Apr (AJR), 1 Balgray Resr 15 Apr, 10 there in evening 29 Apr (JSW,VW), 1 Inversnaid 22 Apr (RSPB), 8 Linn Park 25 Apr (SAW), 2 Craigend Farm, Strathblane 28 Apr (DK), 20 Auchendores Resr 4 May (IPG), and 12 Newshot Island 6 May (ECD).

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Carrot 12JVWFinnich Toll 2AKMNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1 DAB
Crookston 1 SPM Glasgow, Millichen Farms 1SL The Kaim 2 IPG
Crosslees1 JVWLangbank 2DSF Upper Carbarns Farm 1 AIE
Culter Waterhead12JVWNewton Mearns, Humbie Br 4JVW Wintercleuch10JVW
Erskine Hotel 1 SPM Newton Mearns,Westacres 24GRW

Summary: 74 pairs at 14 colonies reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a widespread decline in the breeding population in Renfrewshire is believed to be at least partly due to the increasingly common practice of illegal destruction of nests by householders (IPG); (ii) still a downward trend noted Westacres, Newton Mearns from 38 nests in 2005 (GRW).

Autumn reports included 50 at Treesbank on 9 July (SD), 40 Millhouse, Inverkip 12 July, 150 at Leapmoor Forest 7 Aug (MMcG), 25 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 5 Sep (DAB), 25 Endrick Mouth 7 Sep (JBB), 40 Fintry 9 Sep, 11 on 12 Sep (NT), 20 Newshot Island 12 Sep (AJR), 30 over Netherlee 17 Sep (SAW), 20 Johnstone 21 Sep (DHMcE), 2 Merryton 28 Sep (AIE), 5 Leven marshes 1 Oct (JBB), 2 Hogganfield Loch 3 Oct (JJM), 1 Ardmore South Bay 3 Oct (ANi), and 6 at Ballochcruin Bridge on 11 Oct (AKMcN).

 

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus

Winter-spring reports included 13 at Hogganfield Loch on 4 Jan (ECD), 12 Anniesland 11 Jan (RGRi), 13 at Frankfield Loch 11 Jan (CRS), 22 Baron's Haugh 8 Feb (LMcB), 11 Cloch Caravans 13 Jan (FG), 10 Aird Meadow 16 Jan (MMcG), 14 Linwood Moss 27 Jan (DSF), 24 Balloch 27 Feb (LMcB), 23 Finnich Glen 27 Jan (AKMcN), 20 Linn Park 30 Jan (SAW), and 20 at Inversnaid on 22 Mar (JTT).

Breeding reports (continued over)

Site PrsObsSite PrsObs Site PrsObs
Barbush (NS428635) 1 IPG Bowling Terminal 1 JVW Ferryhill Plantation 1 DSF
Baron's Haugh 3 RSPB Brownside Braes 4 TB Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 2 LMcB
Barscube Hill1 DSF Dykebar 2 TB Glasgow, Linn Park 5 SAW
Site PrsObs Site PrsObs SitePrs Obs
Helensburgh Reservoirs1 ANiLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 2 RSPBNewshot Island 1AJR
Hogganfield Park LNR 1 CRSLochwinnoch, Barr Loch 4 RSPBSCP, North Haugh 4IL
Linwood Moss 2 DSFMerryton/Carbarns3 AIE SCP, Roman Fort 1IL
Loch Lomond, Ardess Lodge 1 ECD Mugdock Country Park 1 GJC

Breeding summary: 41 pairs at 20 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 17 Merryton 29 May (AIE), 15 Newshot Island 29 May (AJR), 27 Colgrain 3 June (DHMcE), 18 Aird Meadow 21 June, 50 on 24 Oct (RSPB), 16 Ardmore Point 30 Aug (LMcB), 18 on 5 Oct (DSF), 10 Robroyston Park LNR 10 Sep (CRS), 17 Westerton Station 10 Sep (TB), 26 Ryat Linn 26 Sep (JSW,VW), 25 Linwood Moss 2 Oct (DSF), 36 Kittoch Mill 8 Oct (CRS), 16 Balgray Resr 17 Oct (JSW,VW), 12 Darleith 21 Oct (FL), 15 at Darnley Mill 24 Oct (JSW,VW), 19 at Red Road Woods, Cardross 1 Nov (FL), 9 flying along George Street, Glasgow, from George Square to the trees opposite Montrose Street on 5 Nov, 9 again in same trees 12 Nov (IPG), 12 at Crookston on 7 Dec (SPM), 20 Jordanhill 22 Dec (ADW), and 30 at Baron's Haugh on 23 Dec (TF).

The ten largest flocks reported in autumn-winter averaged 26.9 birds (cf. mean 22.4 birds 1987-2008), suggesting that the 2008 breeding season may have been better than average in terms of productivity (ed.).

 

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix

Spring arrival/passage involved a singing ♂ Dalzell Estate 21 Apr (MMcG), a singing ♂ Pass of Balmaha 24 Apr, a singing ♂ Ross Wood 24 Apr (IF), 5 on 27 Apr (FH), 1 Muirshiel Country Park 28 Apr (CMRS), a singing ♂ Bonnington Estate 29 May (SKa), and a singing ♂ Waulkmill Glen 30 May (JSW,VW).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Glen Falloch 1 ECD Loch Lomond, Firkin 1 DHMcE Loch Lomond, Rowardennan10CJMcI
Glen Luss2 WMT Loch Lomond, Inverarnan1 ECD Loch Lomond, Sallochy 8 ECD
Loch Lomond, Ardess Lodge2 ECD Loch Lomond, Luss 1 ANi Trois Bheag 3 ECD
Loch Lomond, Balmaha 1 MMcG Loch Lomond, Ross Park 1 ANi
Loch Lomond, Cashel Farm 2 ECD Loch Lomond, Ross Wood 5 FH

Summary: 38 pairs at 13 sites reported in 2008.

 

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus

Spring arrival (singing ♂♂ unless otherwise stated) involved some early individuals: 1 at Lochwinnoch Reserve on 8 Apr (RSPB), 1 on cyclepath at Lochwinnoch 8 Apr (ECD), 2 Barscube Hill 9 Apr, 6 on 14 Apr, 1 Ferryhill Plantation 10 Apr (DSF), 2 Frankfield Loch 10 Apr (CRS), 1 Pilmuir Dam 10 Apr (JSW,VW), 1 at Newshot Island 10 Apr (AJR), 1 Muirshiel Country Park 11 Apr (CMRS), 1 Linnister Glen, Howwood 11 Apr (IPG), 1 Brownside Braes 11 Apr (SJM), 1 Merryton 11 Apr, 10 on 13 Apr (AIE), 1 Baron's Haugh 11 Apr (AGJ), 1 Endrick Mouth 12 Apr (AKMcN), 2 along south shore Gryfe No.1 Resr 12 Apr (IPG), 5 Linwood Moss 12 Apr (DSF), 5 Carron Valley Forest 13 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Glasgow Green 14 Apr (CRS), 1 at Balloch on 14 Apr (ANi), with main arrival Renfrewshire 23-25 Apr, including 3 Howwood station 25 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Allander, Baldernock 2JMu Corse Hill 10JVWF&CC, Wilderness4SPM
Ardmore Point8AKMCorsliehill Wood 21DSF Finnich Glen 1AKM
Auchenfoyle Camp1SPM Crookston 2SPM Garvock 1MMcG
Auchensale Marsh 3IPGCrowhill Wood2ADW Glasgow Green 2CRS
Balgray Reservoir16 JVW Culter Glen 3JVWGlasgow, Alexandra Park2CRS
Baron's Haugh11 RSPBDeil's Craig Dam2AKM Glasgow, Bull Wood 1SPM
Barscube Hill 37 DSF Dougalston Loch1AKM Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 12 SL
Ben Glas 1ECD Dykebar 10TBGlasgow, Cathkin Braes3CRS
Biggar 1SPM East Kilbride, Balmoral Pl 1NWh Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 1CRS
Bleak Law 2SPM Endrickvale 1DABGlasgow, Linn Park 3SAW
Brownside Braes 37 TB Erskine, Boden Boo 3ACMBGlasgow, Millerston1CRS
Cairnhill Woods 1TB Erskine, Park Quay 4ECDGlasgow, Millichen Farms 5SL
Carntyne Station 1AKMErskine, Shilton Lane6ACMBGlasgow, Ruchill Park2SPM
Castle Semple L (RSPB) 5RSPBF&CC, Bishopbriggs 1SPM Glasgow, Tollcross Park 1CRS
Colgrain1DHMF&CC, Kenmure 1SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 1SL
Site Prs ObsSitePrs ObsSite Prs Obs
Gleann nan Caorann 2ECDLoch Lomond, Sallochy3ECDNewton Mearns, Kirkhill 4JVW
Glen Luss 25WMT Locherwood Comm Wood 3ECDNorth Kerse1MMcG
Gleniffer Braes 4SPM Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow23 JL Picketlaw Reservoir5MMacL
Greenock, Cappielow 1SPM Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 22 RSPB Pilmuir Dam 4JVW
Gryfe Plantation 6MMcG Lochwinnoch, Meikle Cloak 1MMcG Pilmuir Quarry1JVW
Hawkhead Estate 2SPM Longhaugh Point 1ECDPossil Marsh 3SPM
Helensburgh Golf Course2DHM Merryton/Carbarns 31 AIE Powbrone Burn 2JVW
Hillend Reservoir4TCMid Netherton/Pedmyre3SL Rottenburn Bridge5MMcG
Hogganfield Park LNR6WMT Monklands Canal, D'pellier 14 CLRouken Gken1JVW
Howwood c'path (600m) 14IPG Mount Pisgah 2MMcG SCP, North Haugh10 IL
Kaim Dam 6IPG Mugdock Country Park 24 GJC SCP, Roman Fort 6IL
Langbank8DSF Muirhouse Muir3AKM Shielhill Glen 3MMcG
Linwood Moss 16DSF Muirhouse Sand Quarry 2AKM Tandlemuir 3MMcG
Loch Ardinning10AKM Muirshiel Country Park 8IPG Treesbank 3SD
Loch Lomond Shores 2DHM Murdieston Park1SPM Troisgeach Bheag 3ECD
Loch Lomond, Balmaha2MMcG Neilston Pad 15 JVWWalls Hill4IPG
Loch Lomond, Firkin 1DHM Nether Barfod 1MMcG Waukmill Glen Reservoir 5JSW
L Lomond, Inchconnachan 4AKM Netherton of Glenboig Fm 3DABWest Netherhouses 1MMcG
Loch Lomond, Inchmoan 1AKM Newshot Island 10 AJR

Summary: 564 pairs at 97 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a relatively average to good breeding season reported in Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire (IL,JSW,VW et al); (ii) first juvs noted Longhaugh Point 1 June (ECD).

Autumn records included 60 at Linwood Moss on 22 July (DSF), 20 Erskine 8 Aug (AJR), 48 Barscube Hill 12 Aug (DSF), 2 Muirshiel Country Park 21 Aug (CMRS), 3 Hairmyres Hospital 22 Aug (NWh), 3 Balgray Resr 2 Sep (JSW,VW), 1 Endrick Mouth 7 Sep (JBB), 2 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane 8 Sep (DK), 1 Linwood Moss 12 Sep (DSF), 1 at Ardmore Point 13 Sep, 1 Colgrain 13 Sep (DHMcE), 4 Darnley Mill 14 Sep (DLC), and 1 at Barscube Hill 18 Sep (DSF).

 

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita

Spring arrival/passage (singing ♂♂ unless otherwise stated) involved 1 Parklea 6 Mar (DSF), 2 at Treesbank 18 Mar (SD), 2 Kelburn 28 Mar (DSF), 1 Endrick Mouth 28 Mar (ANi), 1 Rouken Glen Park 29 Mar (JAS), 2 Baron's Haugh 30 Mar (JCM), 2 at Roman Fort, Strathclyde Country Park 30 Mar (IL), 3 at Cathkin Braes 31 Mar (DWM), 1 Blythswood, Renfrew 31 Mar (ECD), 1 Newshot Island 31 Mar (AJR), 1 Mugdock Country Park 31 Mar (AGJ), 5 Boden Boo, Erskine 2 Apr (ECD), 1 Rhu 2 Apr (HS), 1 Killeoter 4 Apr (FL), 1 Craigend Farm 3 Apr (DK), 1 near Moulin Circus, Cardonald 3 Apr (SPM), 2 Daldowie 3 Apr (CRS), 2 Merryton 4 Apr (AIE), 1 Langbank 4 Apr (DSF), 1 Linn Park 4 Apr (SAW), 1 at Fordbank, Johnstone 4 Apr (AB), 1 Thornley Dam 5 Apr, 1 at Glen Park, Paisley 5 Apr (TB), 1 Kilsyth 5 Apr (SPM), 1 Mugdock Country Park 6 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Garscube Estate 7 Apr (TB), 1 Castle Semple Loch 8 Apr, 1 Parkhill Wood 8 Apr (ECD), 1 at Ferryhill Plantation 10 Apr (DSF), 2 Newshot Island 10 Apr (AJR), 2 at Barcraigs Resr 11 Apr, 1 Linnister Glen 11 Apr (IPG), 1 Botanic Gardens, Glasgow 12 Apr (CJMcI), and 1 at Howwood station on 25 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObsSite PrsObs Site Prs Obs
Ardmore Point1 AKM Brownside Braes 7 TB Crowhill Wood2 ADW
Ballochruin Bridge 1 AKMCardwell Garden Centre 1 IPG Dalzell Estate 3 WMT
Barcraigs Reservoir2 IPGCarron Valley Forest 1 AKM Darnley Glen 3 JVW
Barnbeth Pond1 IPG Castle Semple Loch 1 MMcGDougalston (south) 1 AKM
Baron's Haugh6 RSPB Castlemilk Glen 1 CRS Dougalston Loch1 AKM
Barscube Hill 2 DSF Crookson Castle 1 SPM Drumpellier Country Park 1 CL
Bridge of Weir (NS386654) 1 IPGCrookston 1 SPMDrumpellier Golf Course 1 CL
Site PrsObs Site PrsObsSite PrsObs
Durrockstock Park 2 GTWHowwood, Linnister Glen1 IPGLochwinnoch, Barr Loch 1ZB
East Kilbride, Balmoral Pl1 NWh Howwood, railway station 1 IPGMerryton1 AIE
Erskine Harbour1 ECD Howwood, Skiff Wood 1 IPGMid Netherton/Pedmyre 1SL
Erskine, Boden Boo 6 DSFHowwood, village centre 1 IPGMugdock Country Park 6 GJC
F&C Canal, Bishopbriggs 1 SPM Kilmacolm, Porterfield Road 1 DHMMuirshiel Country Park1 CMRS
F&C Canal, Cadder Bridge 1 SPM Kilmardinny Loch 1 AKMNeilston Pad 1 JVW
F&C Canal, Kelvin 1 SPM Langbank 5 DSD Newshot Island1 AJR
F&C Canal, Temple1 SPM Leapmoor Forest (NS222717)1 IPGOvertoun House 2 SPM
F&C Canal, Twechar 1 SPM Linwood Moss2 DSFPatterton 1 GRW
Falls of Clyde 1 MMcG Loch Bowie 1 SPMRenfrew Golf Course 2 ECD
Finnich Glen1 AKMLoch Lomond, Balmaha8 DSF Renfrew, Blythswood3 ECD
Garscube Estate 2 TB Loch Lomond, Cashel Farm1 ECD Rouken Glen 3 JSW
Glasgow, Bull Wood 1 SPM Loch Lomond, Firkin1 DHMShandon, Station Rd1 DHM
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm2 SL Loch Lomond, Inverarnan1 ECD South Crooks 1 ADW
Glasgow, Linn Park8 SAW Loch Lomond, Rowardennan1 AKMStrathclyde CP, North Haugh 1 IL
Helensburgh upper Station 1 DHMLoch Lomond, Sallochy1 MMcGStrathclyde CP, Roman Fort 3 IL
Hillend Reservoir1 TC Locherwood Comm Wood 1 GBroWaulkmill Glen 4 JVW
Hogganfield Loch Island 1 CRSLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow2 RSPBWesterton Station 1 AKM

Summary: 137 pairs at 75 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn reports included 5 Craigend Hill, Erskine 17 Sep (AJR), 1 in song Balgray Resr 19 Sep (JSW,VW), 5 Barscube Hill 25 Sep, 1 on 1-3 Oct, 1 Langbank 26 Sep (DSF), 2 Merryton 26 Sep (AIE), 1 Endrick Mouth 28 Sep (ANi), 2 Linwood Moss 2 Oct, 1 on 21 Oct (DSF), 1 Hogganfield Loch 3 Oct (JJM), 1 Strathclyde Country Park 5 Oct (IL), 1 Muirshiel Country Park 6 Oct (CMRS), 1 Balgray Resr 8 Oct (JCh), 1 singing Clachan of Campsie 14 Oct (JGW), and 1 at Balmaha on 27 Oct (IF).

Winter reports were of 1 at Rowardennan 12 Nov (DAC), 1 at Newshot Island 16 Nov (AJR), 1 at Merryton 16 Nov (AIE), and 1 at West Lodge, Gates Rd, Lochwinnoch on 22 Nov (EW).

 

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

Spring arrival (singing ♂♂) involved 1 Helensburgh Resrs 25-26 Apr (ANi), 2 Baron's Haugh 27 Apr (TB), 4 Bishop Loch 27 Apr (IF), 2 Baldernock 27 Apr (JMu), 2 Barr Loch 27 Apr (GBro), 59 on 1 May (RSPB), 2 at Newshot Island 27 Apr (ACMB), 1 Balgray Resr 29 Apr (JSW,VW), and 2 at Merryton/Carbarns 30 Apr (AIE).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Ardmore Point 2DO'BDouglas Water Pools 2KSLochwinnoch, Barr Loch 75RSPB
Auchensale Bridge 1IPGEndrick Mouth7AKM Merryton/Carbarns 23AIE
Baron's Haugh 2RSPB Erskine Harbour1ECDMid Netherton/Pedmyre 1SL
Barscube Hill 4DSFErskine, opp Hewlett Packard 11ACMBMillersneuk Marsh 24ADW
Bishop Loch4CRSGlasgow, Millichen Farms4SL Neilston Pad 8JVW
Blackstoun Farm 7DSFGlasgow, Windlaw Farm3SL Newshot Island 5ECD
Blackthird Farm1FL Harelaw Resr, Port Glasgow 2DSF Pilmuir Dam 3JVW
Bowfield Moss 1IPGHelensburgh Reservoirs 6ANi Reivoch Marsh5IPG
Bowling Terminal 1JVW Hogganfield Loch 3CRS Rowbank Marsh 1IPG
Brock Burn, Darnley1JVW Knapps Loch1DSF Snypes Dam 1JVW
Castle Semple Loch 7MALangholm 2JVWSCP, North Haugh14IL
Cathkin Marsh SWT 13ADWLinwood Pool 2GTW SCP, Roman Fort 4IL
Colgrain marsh 1DHMLittleton Reservoir 6JVWTown of Inchinnan-Barnsford Br13GTW
Douglas Estate6KS Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 68RSPB Windlaw Marsh 8SAW

Summary: 354 pairs at 42 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: a poor breeding season noted, with very few young seen in Lanarkshire or Renfrewshire (IPG,IL,JSW,VW et al).

Autumn reports were of 1 Merryton 20 Aug (AIE), 2 Craigmarloch 27 Aug (DSF), 2 Ardmore Point 31 Aug, and 1 Endrick Mouth 31 Aug (ANi).

 

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus

A singing ♂ was at Newshot Island on 10 May (AJR).

 

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia

Spring arrival (singing ♂♂ unless otherwise stated) involved 1 seen at Windlaw Marsh on 19 Apr (ADW), 1 at Erskine 22 Apr (AJR), 1 at Gartfairn 23 Apr (RAB), 1 at Millichen 24 Apr, 1 Summerston 24 Apr (ADW), 1 Lochwinnoch 24 Apr (MA), 1 Helensburgh Resr 25 Apr (ANi), 1 Balgray Resr 25 Apr (JSW,VW), 1 beside River Gryfe at Moss Road 25 Apr (FH), 1 in scrub at Red Smiddy roundabout 25 Apr (IPG), 1 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 25 Apr (DK), 1 at Erskine Harbour 25 Apr (AJR), 1 Cathkin Marsh 26 Apr (JJM), 1 at Helensburgh Resrs 26 Apr, 5 on 27 Apr (ANi), 5 Bishop Loch 27 Apr (IF), 3 Balgray Resr-Waulkmill Glen Resr 27 Apr (JSW,VW), 5 at Barr Loch on 1 May, 1 Aird Meadow 1 May (RSPB), and 6 at Gleniffer Braes, Foxbar on 4 May (GTW).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs ObsSitePrs Obs
Balgray Reservoir 2 DLC Colgrain Marsh1 DHM Loch Ardinning1 AKM
Baron's Haugh 1 RSPBCommonhead Moss1 CRS Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw2 ZB
Bishop Loch 5 IF Craigmarloch Marsh 1 IPG Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 5 MA
Blackstoun Farm 1 DSF Douglas Estate1 KSLonghaugh Point 1 ECD
Brock Burn, Darnley1 JVWDrumgrain Marsh 1 JVWMerryton 3 AIE
Brownside Braes 1 TB Dumbrock Muir 1 ECDMillersneuk Marsh 1 ADW
Glasgow, Bull Wood 1 SPM Endrick Mouth1 ANi Milton services 1 AH
Craigend Farm 1 DKErskine Harbour1 FHNeilston Pad2 JVW
Erskine, Boden Noo1 AJR Garnkirk Moss (south)1 CRS Newshot Island LNR 2 AJR
Hillend Loch 1 TC Glasgow, Millichen Farm 1 SL Pilmuir Dam 1 JVW
Mugdock Country Park 1 GJC Glasgow, Windlaw Farm1 SL Reivoch Farm 1 IPG
Caplaw Dam (N field)1 IPG Gleniffer Braes6 GTW SCP, North Haugh 1 IL
Carrot1 JVWHelensburgh Resrs 5 ANi Waukmill Glen Resr 2 JVW
Cathkin Marsh SWT 1 ADW Knowes 1 FHWindlaw Marsh2 ADW

Grasshopper Warbler breeding summary: 67 pairs at 42 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) ♂ still singing at Reivoch Farm on 23 July (IPG); (ii) ♂ still singing Garnkirk Moss (south) 3 Aug (CRS).

The last reported was 1 at Newshot Island on 8 Aug (AJR).

 

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla

Remarkably few winter reports involved only a ♂ and ♀ in a garden Park Rd, Inchinnan 2 Jan (per JJM), and one in Riccartsbar Ave, Paisley on 25 Feb (GGMcP). Spring arrival (singing ♂♂) involved 1 at Linn Park, Glasgow on 8 Apr (SAW), 1 Strathclyde Country Park 12 Apr (RGRi), 1 Lochwinnoch village 13 Apr (ZB), 1 Baron's Haugh 13 Apr (JCM), 1 Denholm Terrace, Greenock 13 Apr (ADW), 1 Dougalston Loch 15 Apr (AKMcN), 1 Langbank 15 Apr, 1 Boden Boo 16 Apr (DSF), 1 Merryton 17 Apr (AIE), 4 Mugdock Country Park 19 Apr (GJC), 1 Erskine 21 Apr (AJR), 1 Sallochy Bay 24 Apr (IF), 3 Aird Meadow 26 Apr, 2 Ross Wood 26 Apr (GBro), 5 at Endrick Mouth 27 Apr (DHMcE), 2 Newshot Island 27 Apr (AJR), and 1 at Erskine Harbour on 29 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs SitePrs ObsSite Prs Obs
Aber1 AKM Falls of Clyde 1 MMcGHogganfield Loch LNR 2 CRS
Ardmore Point 1 DO'B Ferryhill Plantation2 DSF Howwood cycleway (600m)3IPG
Ballochruin 1 AKM Garscube Estate 1 TB Howwood, Corbethill Wd1 IPG
Baron's Haugh 5 RSPBGlasgow, Alexandra Park 1 CRS Howwood, Linnister Glen1 IPG
Barscube Hill 2 DSF Glasgow, Bull Wood1 SPM Howwood, Midton Road 1 IPG
Br of Weir, Kilbarchan Rd 1 DHM Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm7 SL Howwood, railway station 1 IPG
Colgrain 2 DHM Glasgow, Castlemilk Glen 1 CRS Kilbarchan, Main St 1 DHM
Corsliehill Wood 1 DSF Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 2 CRS Killearn, Blane Bridge 1 DHM
Crowhill Wood8 ADW Glasgow, Darnley Mill3 JVW Kilmacolm, Birkmyre Park 1 AB,IPG
Darleith 1 FL Glasgow, Linn Park8 SAWLangbank 6 DSF
Dumbarton Rock3 JVWGlasgow, Ruchill Park 1 LMcB Lenzie, Bothlin Burn 1 JTMcE
Durrockstock Park1 GTW Glasgow, Tollcross Park1 CRS Linwood Moss2 DSF
Dykebar 2 TB Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 1 SL Loch Ardinning 1 AKM
Endrick Mouth 2 ECD Gleddoch Plantation 1 DSF Loch Lomomd, Sallochy1 AKM
Erskine Home Farm 1 ECD Glen Falloch 1 ECD L Lomond, Ardess Lodge 1 ECD
Erskine Sewage Works 1 ECD Hawkhead 1 SPM L Lomond, Cashel Farm 1 ECD
Erskine, Boden Boo 4 AJR Hillend Loch1 TC L Lomond, Inchcailloch 2 AKM
Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Loch Lomond, Inveruglas2 ECD Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 1SLRenfrew Golf Course 4 ECD
L Lomond, Rowardennan 1 AKMMilngavie, Allander Water5AKM Renfrew, Blythswood 1 ECD
Locherwood Comm Wood 1 ECD Milngavie, Lennox Park 1AKM Rouken Glen 3 JVW
Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow4 RSPB Mugdock Country Park 4GJCRyat Linn 1 JVW
Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 5 ZB Muirshiel Country Park1IPG South Medwin Pools 1 JVW
Lochwinnoch, Main St Br1 ZB Newshot Island3AJRStrathclyde C P, North Haugh 14IL
Lochwinnoch, South Crooks 1 ADWNewton Mearns, Barrance 1JVW Strathclyde C P, Roman Fort 5 IL
Longhaugh Point 2 ECD Newton Mearns, Kirkhill1JVW Waulkmill Glen 4 JVW
Lunderston Bay 1 IPGNewton Mearns, Patterton Stn. 1GRW Westerton1 RGRi
Merryton/Carbarns 8 AIEPilmuir Dam1JVW

Summary: 168 pairs at 77 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn reports included 2 Ardmore Point 11 Sep (ANi), 1 Daldowie 17 Sep (CRS), 2 Craigend Hill, Erskine 17 Sep (AJR), 1 Strathclyde Country Park 5 Oct (IL), a ♀ Balgray Resr 12 Oct (DLC), 2 Bishopbriggs 14 Oct (DMcC), a ♀ Linn Park 22 Oct (SAW), a ♂ at Newshot Island 26 Oct (AJR).

Winter reports were of 1 Gourock 5 Nov (DSF), 2 ♂♂ feeding on pears in a Gleniffer Dr, Barrhead garden on 21 Nov, one ♂ on 30 Nov, at least one ♂ to 24 Dec, 2 ♂♂ on 28 Dec (PHB,DLC), a ♀ at Langbank 22 Nov (DSF), a ♂ in nursery grounds at junction Glasgow Rd/Blantyre Farm Rd, Blantyre 23 Nov (DJA), a ♂ in Denholm Terrace, Greenock 26 Nov (ADW), a ♀ in a garden Lochwinnoch High St 30 Nov (ZB), a ♂ on feeder in Kilbarchan Rd, Bridge of Weir 5-10 Dec (WJB), a ♂ in Neuk Crescent, Houston 9-10 Dec (per RSPB), a ♀ Colchester Dr, Glasgow 24 Dec (per IPG), a ♂ in Marjory Rd, Renfrew 26-28 Dec (ECD), and a ♂ in Brodie Rd, Glasgow 30-31 Dec (BZ).

 

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin

Spring arrival involved 1 Merryton 1 May (AIE), 2 Sallochy 5 May (IMi), a singing ♂ Linnister Glen, Howwood 5 May (IPG), 1 Baron's Haugh 6 May (LS), and 2 singing ♂♂ Boden Boo, Erskine 6 May (ECD).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Ardmore Point2 DO'B Gartocharn 1 DHMcELoch Lomond, Sallochy 2 per IPG
Ballochruin Bridge 1 AKMcN Gartochraggan 1 ECDLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 2 RSPB
Baron's Haugh1 RSPBGlasgow, Daldowie 1 CRS Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch1 RSPB
Bowling Oil Terminal 1 JVW Glasgow, Linn Park 1 SAW Longhaugh Point1 GTW
Carron Valley Reservoir1 AKMcN Glen Moss1 DSF Lyoncross Farm 1 JVW
Drumlog Muir 4 CJMcI Helensburgh Golf Course 1 DHMcEMerryton5 AIE
Drymen 1 RBu Howwood, Linnister Glen1 IPG Mugdock Country Park3 AKMcN
Endrick Mouth 7 DHMcE Killearn 1 JMcO Strathclyde C P, North Haugh8 IL
Endrickvale 1 DAB Linwood Moss3 DSF Strathclyde C P, Roman Fort 4 IL
Erskine, Craigend Hill 1 AJR Loch Ardinning 1 ECDThornley Dam 1 TB
Erskine Golf Course 1 ECD Loch Lomond, Inveruglas 1 ECDWardshill 1 DHMcE
Erskine, Boden Boo2 ECD Loch Lomond, Rowardennan 2 MMcG

Summary: 67 pairs at 35 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn reports were of 1 Ardmore 7 Sep (JBB), 1 Balgray Resr 14 Sep (PHB,DLC).

 

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca

Reports were of a singing ♂ at Baron's Haugh RSPB Reserve on 5-6 May (GS) and 22 June (ECD), a singing ♂ Dykebar (first time there since 1999) on 10 May, but no breeding at Renfrewshire core sites (TB), a singing ♂ by the A72 layby at the entrance to Merryton on 11 May and 29 May (AIE), and a singing ♂ on the south side of Locher Tannery (at NS393644), Bridge of Weir on 30 May-1 June (WJB).

A wintering individual was reported coming to a feeder at Cloch Caravan Park 11-19 Nov (FG).

 

Whitethroat Sylvia communis

Spring arrival involved a very early singing ♂ near Balgray Resr 15 Apr (JSW,VW), followed by 1 at Bishop Loch 27 Apr (IF), 1 at Craigend Hill 27 Apr, 1 Newshot Island 27 Apr (AJR), 1 at Barscube Hill 28 Apr (DSF), 1 Merryton/Carbarns 1 May (AIE), with the main arrival noted Renfrewshire on 4 May (IPG), and 14 along the River Kelvin, Summerston-Buchley Farm Pool on 4 May (JC).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Allander/Kelvin2 AKM East Burnthills (NS3856) 1 IPGLunderston Bay 1 FG
Ardmore Point 3 DO'B Endrick Mouth 1 DHMMerryton/Carbarns17AIE
Auchensale Br 3 IPG Erskine, Boden Boo 2 ECD Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 3 SL
Balgray Resr 1 JVWErskine, Craigend 1 AJRMillersneuk Marsh1 ADW
Bargarran 2 MMcGErskine, Park Quay 1 ECD Muirshiel Country Park1 CMRS
Baron's Haugh 7 RSPBGlasgow, Carnbooth Farm 4 SL Neilston Pad 5 JVW
Barscube Hill6 DSF Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 4 SAW Netherton of Glenboig Farm1 DAB
Blackstoun Farm7 DSF Glasgow, Millichen Farms 3 SL Newmill Bridge (NS3856) 1 IPG
Bowling Terminal 4 JVWGlasgow, Windlaw Farm 3 SL Newshot Island1 AJR
Brownside Braes7 TB Glenburn Reservoir 2 SPM Newton Mearns, Broom Church1 JVW
Cardross1 AGGGreen Water (NS338684)1 IPGNewton Mearns, Kirkhill2 JVW
Colgrain 1 DHM Hardridge Farm 1 IPGNewton Mearns, Mearns Castle 1 JVW
Corsliehill Wood 2 DSF Hogganfield Loch 2 CRSPilmuir Dam2 JVW
Crookston2 SPM Inversnaid 3 RSPB Reilly Road 1 IPG
Daldowie 1 CRS Kilmacolm, Gryfe Rd 1 DHMRouken Glen 1 JVW
Darleith 1 FL Knapps Loch 1 DSFSCP, North Haugh 10IL
Dumbarton Rock 1 JVWL Lomond, Rowardennan 2 AKMSCP, Roman Fort2 IL
Dumbrock Muir 1 AKM Lochwinnoch, Barr L 1 RSPB Summerston-Buchley 14JC
Dykebar 2 TB Lochwinnoch station 2 RSPB Waukmill Glen Resr1 JVW

Summary: 156 pairs at 57 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a poor breeding season noted, with very few young seen in Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire (IPG,IL,JSW,VW et al); (ii) a pair still feeding young in nest Possil Marsh 18 Aug (JJM).

Autumn reports included 20 Blackstoun Farm 22 July (DSF), 1 Newshot Island 14 Aug (IPG), 2 at Ardmore on 7 Sep (JBB), and 1 at Craigend Hill, Erskine on 17 Sep (AJR).

 

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla

Two reports of wintering individuals: one feeding low down in a hawthorn bush along Barhill Road (NS464702), opposite the entrance to Lamont Farm stables in Erskine at 1150 hrs on 6 Feb (AJR), and one in scrub at pedestrian entrance Hillfoot Station, Bearsden (at NS550720) on 6 Mar, seen again 14-16 Mar (BH).

 

Goldcrest Regulus regulus

Winter-spring reports included 2 singing ♂♂ Locherwood Community Woodland 27 Feb (IPG). Breeding reports overleaf (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports included 12 Muirshiel Country Park 14 Aug (CMRS), nearby 30 at Thornlybank Hill 16 Aug (GBro), 17 Fintry 11 Sep (NT), 24 Barscube Hill 19 Sep, 20 Linwood Moss 2 Oct (DSF), and 8 in Glen Luss on 1 Nov (JTT).

Goldcrest breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Auchenfoyle Camp1SPM Ferryhill Plantation2DSFLoch Lomond, Rowardennan 1AKM
Baron's Haugh 3RSPBFinnich Glen3AKM Lochwinnoch, Main St Br 2ZB
Barscube Hill 7DSF Foxbar, Hollows Ave 1GTW Merryton/Carbarns 2AIE
Black Linn Resr1SPM Garthland Wood 1ZB Milngavie, Low Craigton1AKM
Brown Hill Plantation2SPM Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm9SLMuirshiel Country Park 1CMRS
Brownside Braes 2TB Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 1CRSMyres Hill7JVW
Carron Valley Forest2AKMGlasgow, Dawsholm Park2LMcBNeilston Pad 6JVW
Corse Hill 8JVW Glasgow, Linn Park4SAW Netherton of Glenboig Fm1DAB
Craigallian Loch 1AKMGlasgow, Ruchill Park 3LMcBRenfrew Golf Course 1ECD
Crookston 3SPM Gryfe Plantation1IPG SCP, North Haugh4IL
Crowhill Wood3ADW Kilmardinny Loch 1AKM SCP, Roman Fort 2IL
Darleith1FL Langbank 6DSFWeels Farm 1IPG
Dykebar 4TB Leapmoor Plantation (part) 2IPG
Endrick Mouth 1AKMLoch Lomond, Inchcailloch 1AKM

Summary: 105 pairs at 40 sites reported in 2008.

 

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs ObsSitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ardmore Point2 AKM Endrickvale 1 DAB Loch Thom 2SPM
Baldernock House 1 AKM F&CC, Bishpobriggs1 SPM Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 28 JL
Baron's Haugh19RSPB F&CC, Glasgow Bridge 1 SPM Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch26 ZB
Barscube Hill 25DSF F&CC, Laigh Kenmure 2 SPM Lochwinnoch, Main St Bridge 2ZB
Bleak Law 1 DTFerryhill Plantation 7 DSF Merryton/Carbarns 30 AIE
Brownside Braes 13TBFinnich Glen1 AKMMid Netherton/Pedmyre 11 SL
Buchley2 AKM Glasgow, Bull Wood2 SPM Milngavie Station 1AKM
Cairnoch 1 AC-C Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 26SL Mugdock Loch 3SPM
Carron Valley Forest7 AKM Glasgow, Dawsholm Park18LMcB Mugdock Park 2SPM
Castlemilk Glen2 CRS Glasgow, Early Braes 2 CRS Muirhouse Sand Quarry 1AKM
Cathkin Braes, Glasgow2 CRS Glasgow, Linn Park 7 SAWMuirshiel Country Park 1CMRS
Cloch Point 1 MMcG Glasgow, Necropolis2 CRS Murdieston Park 1SPM
Corse Hill 15JVWGlasgow, Millichen Farms 14SL Myres Hill20 JVW
Crookston 10SPM Glasgow, Ruchill Park15LMcB Neilston Pad 3SPM
Croy Quarry 4 SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 9 SL Pollok Country Park 1SPM
Culter Waterhead 3 JVWHawkhead Cemetery 1 SPM Strathclyde CP, North Haugh 16 IL
Dougalston (south)1 AKM Hawkhead Woodland 1 SPM Strathclyde CP, Roman Fort 2IL
Dougalston Loch 3 AKM Kilmardinny Loch 4 AKMWest Ferry1SPM
Dumbrock Muir8 SPM Langbank18DSF Westerton Station 1AKM
EK, Heritage Park2 SPM Linwood Moss 13DSF
Endrick Mouth5 AKM Loch Ardinning1 AKM

Summary: 425 pairs reported at 62 sites in 2008.

 

Nuthatch Sitta europaea

One was at a feeder in a Crawfordjohn garden on 31 Jan (JDa), a pair inspecting a nest hole in Dalzell Estate on 12 Feb (ECD), 3 in Dalzell Estate on 17 Feb (CJMcI), 2 on 26 Feb (MMcG), 5 birds there including one gathering nest material on 28 Feb (per JJM), and at least 3 prs on 11 Mar (GJB).

Breeding season reports were of 4 nesting prs Dalzell Estate, the 4th pair located nest-building on 11 Apr, and young at site 3 near fledging on 1 June (JCM,LS). A single bird, probably a ♀, was in Ross Wood, Loch Lomondside on 24 Apr (IF), but could not be relocated by tape-lure on 30 Apr (BZ). Others reported were one on feeders at Damhead, near Carluke 5-6 May (JND), and 1 at Home Farm, Douglas Estate 3 July (KS).

Autumn-winter reports involved 1 in a Mugdock garden 2 Sep (AGJ), 1 Dalzell Estate 14 Sep (SJM), 1 in a Crawfordjohn garden 24 Sep (per JDa), 1-2 at feeders in the walled garden, Pollok Country Park 14 Oct-28 Dec (CRS et al), 1 in a Dolphinton garden 17 Oct (AMcA), one at a feeder in Victoria Rd, Brookfield on 18 Nov (JGra), one at feeder in Burnside Ave, Brookfield on 29 Nov (ACr,JCraig), and 1 at feeders in a Balloch garden on 4 Dec (ED).

 

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris

Winter-spring reports included 5 Linn Park 17 Feb (SAW).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Barscube Hill2 DSF Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 4 LMcB Mugdock Country Park1 GJC
Corsliehill Wood 1 DSF Glasgow, Linn Park 4 SAW Muirshiel Country Park 1 CMRS
Darnley Glen 1 JVW Kilmardinny Loch1 AKM Neilston Pad 1 JVW
Dykebar 1 TB L Lomond, Ardess Lodge 1 ECDNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1 DAB
Endrick Mouth2 ECD L Lomond, Rowardennan 1 ECDRenfrew Golf Course 2 ECD
Erskine, Boden Boo1 AJR Loch Lomond, Sallochy 2 ECDRenfrew, Blythswood 1 ECD
Ferryhill Plantation 2 DSF Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 3 JL Rouken Glen 1 JVW
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm3 SL Merryton/Carbarns 7 AIEWaulkmill Glen 1 JVW

Summary: 42 pairs at 23 sites reported in 2008.

 

Rose-coloured Starling Pastor roseus

An adult ♂ (photographed) at Greenock Waterfront on 19 June (GGr,WP).

 

Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Winter-spring reports included 320 Clochodrick Stone 21 Feb, estimated 280 Barnbrock Farm 21 Feb, probably same flock counted 273 Midhouse Farm 27 Feb, 252 in two flocks between Windyhill and Hartfield Moss 28 Feb (IPG), 700 at Over Enoch on 28 Feb (JSW,VW), and 180 at Merryton 9 May (AIE).

Breeding reports (prs = apparently occupied nests or parents carrying food for young)

Site Prs Obs Site PrsObs Site Prs Obs
Auchenfoyle Camp 1 SPM Lochwinnoch Reserve 16 RSPB Weels Farm 5 IPG
Glasgow, Millichen Farms15SL Merryton 6 AIE
Glen Fruin, Highfields 2 MMcGMid Netherton/Pedmyre 3 SL

Summary: 48 pairs at 7 sites reported in 2008, an unusually poor level of recording (ed.). Supplementary notes: (i) nest building first noted Howwood 10 Apr, adults carrying food from 4 May, first juvs fledged 23 May, mass fledging Renfrewshire 24 May (IPG); (ii) first fledged young Foxbar, Paisley 13 May (GTW); (iii) first fledged young Colgrain 23 May (DHMcE).

Post-breeding flocks included 200 Newshot Island 29 May, 300 on 7 July (AJR), 595 Swinetrees Burn-North Castlewalls 31 May (IPG), 500 mainly juvs Merryton 1 June (AIE), 174 Kaim Dam 2 June (IPG), 420 Harelaw Resr, Greenock 3 June (DSF), and 190 Springhill 23 June (IPG). Roost counts included 950 (ca 90% juvs) roosting in a large patch of Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) with some Salix and Prunus scrub behind the Cleansing Depot in Pottery Street, Greenock on 20 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 200 East Millichen Farm 11 Sep (CRS), a feeding flock of 270 at Barnbrock Farm on 25 Dec, and 183 at High Auchensale on 29 Dec (IPG).

 

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus

Spring reports were of 3 birds (2 ♂♂ and a ♀) at Wind Gill on 12 Apr (John Dunlop per JJM), and a ♂ at Fereneze Golf Course, Barrhead on 28 Apr (JG).

The only breeding report involved 2 singing ♂♂ and a ♀ carrying food in Culter Glen on 7 June (JSW,VW).

No autumn records.

 

Blackbird Turdus merula

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Aber 2 AKMcN Glasgow, Bingham's Pond 2 LMcBKilmardinny Loch 1AKMcN
Ardmore Point 3 AKMcN Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm16 SLLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 8JL
Balloch13 LMcB Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 2 CRSLochwinnoch, Barr Loch 7ZB
Baron's Haugh 18 RSPBGlasgow, Dawsholm Park10 LMcBMerryton/Carbarns12 AIE
Barscube Hill16 DSF Glasgow, Millichen Farms 8 SLMid Netherton/Pedmyre 11 SL
Black Linn Resr 1 SPM Glasgow, Necropolis4 CRSMuirshiel Country Park2CMRS
Bleak Law3 DT Glasgow, Ruchill Park 18 LMcBMyres Hill 3JSW
Castlemilk Glen 2 CRS Glasgow, Tollcross Park2 CRSNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1DAB
Chatelherault CP2 SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 4 SLNewton Mearns, Kirkhill1JSW
Crookston5 SPM Langbank 10 DSFRenfrew, Marjory Road 1ECD
Dougalston (south) 1 AKMcN Greenock, Cappielow 1 SPMRyat Linn Reservoir 2SPM
Dougalston Loch 1 AKMcN Greenock, Murdieston Park1 SPMSCP, North Haugh 12 IL
Dumbrock Muir 1 AKMcN Hamilton Low Parks 2 SPMStrathclyde CP, Roman Fort 8IL
Endrick Mouth1 AKMcN Hawkhead 4 SPMTreesbank 2SD
Endrickvale 1 DAB Hawkhead Cemetery 3 SPMWesterton Station 1AKMcN

Summary: 229 pairs at 45 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter counts included 14 Barscube Hill 19 Sep, and 24 Blackstoun Farm 3 Dec (DSF).

 

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris

Winter-spring reports included 90 at Strathclyde University Playing Fields, Millerston 11 Jan (CRS), 100 at Bascule (Swing) Bridge, Renfrew 14 Jan (ECD), 124 Dargavel Burn 20 Jan (DSF), 100 Crookston 2 Feb (SPM), 60 Millichen Flood 3 Feb (AKMcN), 162 Barscube Hill 4 Feb, 85 on 30 Mar, 3 on 7 Apr (DSF), 60 at Glasgow Green 5 Feb (CRS), 110 Merryton 10 Feb, 160 on 2 Mar, 39 on 6 Apr, last one 23 Apr (AIE), 120 at Candrens Farm on 14 Feb, 120 at Blackstoun Farm 15 Feb (GTW), 50 at Darleith 16-26 Feb (FL), 204 at Craigmarloch on 16 Feb (DSF), 109 Midhouse Farm 27 Feb (IPG), 75 Cardowan Moss LNR 27 Feb (CRS), 350 at Over Enoch Farm 28 Feb, 30 on 20 Apr (JSW,VW), 760 Hartfield Farm 25 Mar, 120 on 10 Apr (IPG), 150 Darleith 1 Apr, 50 on 10 Apr, 2 on 27 Apr (FL), 8 over Netherlee 7 Apr (SAW), 150 Kaimend 8 Apr (JSW,VW), 2 including one in song Buchley Pool 8 Apr (AKMcN), 86 Overtown 9 Apr (PB), 200 Endrickvale 10 Apr (DAB), 350 Douglas Estate 11 Apr, 250 on 22 Apr (JBB), 150 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 17 Apr (DAB), 2 Mugdock Country Park 22 Apr (AGJ), and 1 at Blackstoun Farm 27 Apr (DSF).

A late spring report was of 2 at Carron Valley Forest on 26 May (AB-C).

Autumn-winter reports included 3 Drumpellier Golf Course 13 Oct (CL), 40 Castle Semple Loch 16 Oct (MMcG), 25 Clovenstone 17 Oct (CMRS), 150 Strathclyde Country Park 18 Oct (IL), 100 Garshangan Bridge 18 Oct (FG), 400 in three flocks Kilmacolm 19 Oct (IPG), 67 Barscube Hill 19 Oct, 210 on 2 Nov (DSF), 1 at Merryton on 19 Oct, 400 on 2 Nov, 210 on 7 Dec (AIE), 24 at Linn Park on 21 Oct (SAW), 30 Craigend Farm, Strathblane 21 Oct, 100 on 28 Oct and 11 Nov (DK), 35 Newshot Island 21 Oct (ECD), 45 Fannyside Lochs 21 Oct (DMo), 110 at Blackstoun Farm 21 Oct (DSF), 50 Barr Loch 24 Oct (RSPB), 50 Heathfield Farm 27 Oct (CMRS), 100 Darleith 30 Oct, 160 on 23 Dec (FL), 1000 Town of Inchinnan-Linwood 31 Oct (GTW), 300 Littleton Reservoir 31 Oct (JSW,VW), 70 Glen Luss 1 Nov (JTT), 60 Colgrain 1 Nov (DHMcE), 55 at Craigmarloch 4 Nov (DSF), 100 Balgray Resr 12 Nov (SAW), 110 East Millichen Farm 18 Nov (CRS), 100 Castle Semple Loch 25 Nov (RSPB), 116 Langbank 30 Nov (DSF), 60 Shielhill Glen 12 Dec (MMcG), 15 in a Linburn garden 21 Dec (ACMB), and 140 at Arkleston on 21 Dec (ECD).

 

Redwing Turdus iliacus

Winter-spring reports included 82 Reivoch Farm 16 Jan (IPG), 70 Victoria Park, Glasgow 26 Jan (CJMcI), 47 Barscube Hill 4 Feb (DSF), 30 Glasgow Green 5 Feb (CRS), 30 Lamont Farm, Erskine 9 Feb (ECD), 25 Tollcross Park 15 Feb (CRS), 50 Mosspark 23 Feb (SPM), 22 in Birkmyre Park, Kilmacolm 2 Mar (AB), 30 Merryton 2 Mar (AIE), 15 Finlaystone Estate 4 Mar, 1 Barnsford Bridge 2 Apr (IPG), 2 Brownside Braes 8 Apr (SJM), and very late birds 1 Aird Meadow 20 Apr (GBro), 4 Douglas Estate 22 Apr (JBB), 1 Mugdock Country Park 22 Apr (AGJ), and 1 at Linn Park on 24 Apr (SAW).

Autumn-winter reports included 7 W over Barscube Hill 25 Sep, 34 on 6 Oct, 198 on 19 Oct, 85 on 1 Nov (DSF), 2 Bellshill 27 Sep (IL), 2 at Linn Park on 5 Oct, 50 on 22 Oct (SAW), 7 at Baron's Haugh 5 Oct (JCM), 8 Strathclyde Country Park 5 Oct (IL), 12 Linwood Moss 9 Oct, 130 on 21 Oct, 60 on 26 Nov (DSF), 8 at Merryton on 11 Oct, 105 on 19 Oct, 75 on 30 Nov, 45 on 7 Dec (AIE), 120 Drumclog Muir 12 Oct (CJMcI), 50 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 16 Oct, 100 on 28 Oct (DK), 200 Castle Semple Loch 16 Oct (MMcG), passage noted over Brownside Braes, Balgray Resr and Foxbar 16 Oct (SJM,GTW et al), 60 Killearn 18 Oct (AKMcN), 80 over Strathclyde Country Park 18 Oct (IL), 100 Kilbarchan 18 Oct (JTT), 100 Darnley Glen 20 Oct, 150 Balgray Resr 21 Oct (JSW), heavy overnight passage over Langbank 21 Oct (DSF), 60 Endrick Mouth 26 Oct (AKMcN), 300 at Town of Inchinnan-Linwood on 31 Oct (GTW), 60 Colgrain 1 Nov (DHMcE), 50 Darleith 18 Nov (FL), and 185 at Knockmountain on 26 Dec (DSF).

 

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos

Winter-spring reports included one in song Hyndland Station 7 Jan (TB), one singing in Bridge of Weir at 0405 hrs on 19 Jan (AB,IPG), and one in song Langbank 28 Jan (DSF). Spring return included 3 in territorial dispute Rosneath Point 12 Feb (IPG), first one back in observer's garden Kilmacolm 17 Feb (AB), 3 in song Colgrain 23 Feb (DHMcE), and 4 singing ♂♂ at Locherwood Community Woodland on 27 Feb (IPG).

Breeding reports

SitePrsObsSite PrsObs Site Prs Obs
Ardmore Point1 AKM Ferryhill Plantation 4 DSFLochwinnoch Reserve 13RSPB
Auchenfoyle Camp 1 SPM Gartocharn1 ECD Longhaugh Point 1ECD
Balloch 8 LMcB Gateside Br (NS328688) 1 IPG Merryton/Carbarns 8AIE
Baron's Haugh6 RSPB Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 10 SLMid Netherton/Pedmyre 8SL
Barscube Hill 15 DSF Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 4 LMcBMount Pisgah1MMcG
Bishop Loch 1 CRS Glasgow, Millichen Farms 3 SLMuirshiel Country Park 3IPG
Blackstoun Farm 4 DSF Glasgow, Ruchill Park 3 LMcBMyres Hill 3JVW
Bleak Law 1 DTGlasgow, Windlaw Farm 3 SLNeilston Pad 3JVW
Brownside Braes 3 TBGlenburn Reservoir 1 SPMOvertoun House2SPM
Cairnhill Woods 2 TBGourock Ferry Terminal 1 MMcG Parkhill Wood 1ECD
Cloch Caravans 1 FGGreenock, Pottery Street 1 IPG Pollok Country Park 1SPM
Clochodrick Stone 1 IPG Gryfe Plantation 1 MMcG Renfrew Golf Course 1ECD
Cowgill Upper Resr1 ECDHarelaw Resr, Greenock 1 DSFRobroyston Park LNR 1CRS
Crookston 11 SPM Killochries 1 IPG Ryat Linn Reservoir 2SPM
Culter Waterhead 1 JVWKnapps Loch 6 DSFShielhill Glen 1MMcG
Darleith 1 FL Knocknairshill Resr1 IPG SCP, North Haugh19IL
Darnley Glen1 JVWLangbank 9 DSFSCP, Roman Fort 6IL
EK, Balmoral Pl 1 NWh L Lomond, Inverarnan 1 ECD Tandlemuir 1IPG
Endrick Mouth 1 AKM L Lomond, Inveruglas1 ECD
Endrickvale1 DABLocherwood Com. Wood1 ECD

Summary: 191 pairs at 58 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) at least 2 fledged broods at Muirshiel Country Park on 21 May (AB,IPG); significant increase from 2 pairs Mid Netherton/Pedmyre (SL).

Autumn-winter reports included 15 Barscube Hill 30 Sep, 34 Linwood Moss 9 Oct (DSF), one in full song Castlehead High School, Paisley 17 Dec (AB), and 1 in full song Kelvinbridge 23 Dec (JM).

 

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus

Winter-spring reports included one in song Hillington Ind Est 10 Jan (DHMcE), one in song Garscube Estate 14 Jan (TB), 12 Linwood Moss 27 Jan (DSF), and one in song Finnich Glen 27 Jan (AKMcN).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ardgowan Estate1 FG Darleith 1 FL Ladymuir Forest 2DSF
Auchenfoyle Camp 1 SPM Dowries Wood 1 IPGLangbank1DSF
Barochan House (NS46J) 1 IPG Dykebar 1 TB Leapmoor Plantation 2IPG
Baron's Haugh 1 RSPBElliston Castle 1 IPGLocherwood Community Woodland 1ECD
Barscube Hill 3 DSF Ferryhill Plantation 1 DSF Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 2JL
Ben Glas 1 ECD Garscube Estate 2 TB Merryton 2AIE
Bleak Law 1 DTGlasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SL Muirshiel Country Park2IPG
Brownside Braes 2 TB Glasgow Airport 2 DHMMyres Hill 4JVW
Carrot1 JVWGlasgow Green 1 AHNeilston Pad1JVW
Coiregrogain1 ECD Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 1 LMcB Parklea 2DSF
Corsliehill Wood 1 DSF Glen Fruin, Auchengaich1 ANi Powbrone Burn 1JVW
Cowgill Upper Resr 1 ECD Gryfe Plantation 3 IPGStrathclyde Country Pk, North Haugh 1IL
Culter Waterhead 1 JVWHillside Farm 1 IPG

Summary: 53 pairs at 37 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter counts included 17 Daldowie 22 June (CRS), 17 Heathfield Farm 1 Aug (CMRS), 18 Daff Resr 4 Aug (IPG), 18 Linn Park 16 Aug (SAW), 26 Walston 2 Sep (ADW), 19 Springside (NS4057) 8 Sep (IPG), 16 Barscube Hill 19 Sep (DSF), and 20 Darleith 16 Oct (FL).

 

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

Spring arrival involved 1 at Dalzell Estate, Motherwell 5 May (DJA), 4 Baron's Haugh 10 May (JCM), 2 Muirshiel Country Park 10 May (CMRS), 2 Aird Meadow 11 May (RSPB), 3 Sallochy Wood 13 May, 4 on 31 May (IF), 2 Ferryhill Plantation 13 May (DSF), 2 Darleith 14 May (FL), 3 Barscube Hill 15 May (DSF), 1 Aird Meadow 26 May (DLC), 1 Glanderston Wood 29 May (IWMcC), a singing ♂ at Lawmarnock Wood on 29 May (IPG), at Endrick Mouth 1 at Shore Wood and 1 at Claddochside Farm 30 May (ANi), and 3 along path Gartloch West Cottages-former hospital site 1 June (IF).

Breeding summary (table over): 38 pairs at 30 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) pair alarm-calling Lawmarnock Wood 10 July (IPG); (ii) pair alarm-calling at Hall Farm on 23 July (IPG); (iii) Merryton pair raised 2 young (AIE); and (iv) the Darleith pair raised 3 young (FL).

Spotted Flycatcher breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ardgowan Estate 1 FG Falls of Clyde SWT 1 SK Loch Lomond, Sallochy 2 IF
Ardmore Point1 LMcBGlanderston Wood 1 IWMLocherwood Comm Wood1 IPG
Baron's Haugh2 JCMGlasgow, Carnbooth Farm2 SL L'winnoch, Aird Meadow 2 RSPB
Cander Moss SWT 1 SK Glasgow, Cathkin Braes 1 SAWLochwinnoch, Hall Farm1 IPG
Carruth Wood (S) 1 IPG Glasgow, Linn Park1 SAWLonghaugh Point1 ECD
Cowdon Hall1 IWM Glen Luss1 HS Merryton1 AIE
Craigmarloch Wood 1 DSFKilmacolm, Cloak Road 2 IPG Muirshiel Country Park 3 CMRS
Darleith 1 FLLawmarnock Wood1 IPG Neilston Pad 1 IWM
Dykebar2 TB Loch Libo1 DLC Netherton of Glenboig Farm1 DAB
Endrick Mouth1 ANiLoch Lomond Golf Course 1 ANi Ross Park 1 ANi

Autumn reports included 5 at Darleith 3 Aug, 1 on 2 Sep (FL), 1 at Netherton Braes on 11 Aug (SAW), 2 Barscube Hill 12 Aug (DSF), 4 Glen Luss 22 Aug (HS), 4 (a family party) Merryton 30 Aug (AIE), 4 at Longhaugh Point 8 Sep (AJR), 1 Ardmore Point 11 Sep (ANi), 16 Douglas Estate 12 Sep (IF), 1 Craigend Hill, Erskine 17-19 Sep (AJR), and 1 at Waulkmill Glen on 18 Sep (DLC).

 

Robin Erithacus rubecula

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs ObsSite Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Aber 2AKM Ferryhill Plantation 8DSF Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 13 JL
Baron's Haugh17 RSPB Foxbar, Hollows Ave1GTW Merryton/Carbarns21 AIE
Barscube Hill 32 DSF Glasgow, Bingham's Pond2LMcB Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 15 SL
Brownside Braes 10 TBGlasgow, Bull Wood 1SPM Milngavie Station 1AKM
Buchley Pool1AKM Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 26 SL Mugdock Country Park 7SPM
Cairnoch 1AC-C Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 13 LMcB Muirhouse Sand Quarrry 1AKM
Carron Valley Forest 13 AKM Glasgow, Millichen Farms6SL Muirshiel Country Park1CMRS
Corsliehill Wood 12 DSF Glasgow, Necropolis 1CRS Myres Hill 10 JVW
Craigallian Plant. 1AKM Glasgow, Ruchill Park 11 LMcB Neilston Pad1SPM
Crookston 4SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm6SL Pollok Country Park10 SPM
Croy Quarry 1SPM Gryfe Plantation 1SPM SCP, North Haugh 12 IL
Dougalston (south)4AKM Hawkhead1SPM SCP, Roman Fort5IL
Dougalston Loch 2AKM Kilmardinny Loch3SPM Treesbank 1SD
Dumbrock Muir 4SPM Kilpatrick Braes 2SPM Westerton Station 1AKM
Endrick Mouth 9AKM Langbank 18 DSF
Endrickvale1SPM Loch Ardinning 1AKM

Summary: 314 pairs reported at 46 sites in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) noted as exceptionally difficult to locate in woodland Atlas surveys after 8 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter counts included 26 at Barscube Hill on 7 Sep, 16 Finlaystone Point 9 Sep (DSF), and 15 at Ardmore on 28 Oct (ECD).

 

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca

Spring arrival/passage reports involved singing ♂♂ at Ross Wood, Rowardennan and Sallochy Bay on 24 Apr (IF), and a ♂ at Calderglen Country Park on 24 Apr (CMcG per BS).** Kenmore Woods had three successful nests RAB.

Breeding: Disappointingly data are no longer received from Loch Lomondside nestbox schemes or from the Inversnaid RSPB Reserve (ed.). The only breeding report in 2008 was of 2 pairs at Sallochy (MMcG).

 

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros

A wintering ♀, feeding along the high tide mark between the Ardencaple Burn and Ardencaple Hotel, Helensburgh, was present at least from 14 Feb-16 Mar (ANi,HS et al).

 

Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus

Spring arrival involved a ♂ at Darnley Mill Country Park on 16 Apr (JSW,VW), a ♂ in song Gartfairn 23 Apr (RAB), 3 ♂♂ and one ♀ Sallochy Woods 24 Apr (IF), and a ♀ at Gleddoch Golf Course on 8 May (DSF).

Breeding reports

SitePrsObs Site PrsObs
Endrick Mouth2 DHMcE Loch Lomond, Rowardennan 8 CJMcI
Loch Lomond, Ross Park 2 ANiLoch Lomond, Sallochy 3 IF

Summary: 15 pairs at 4 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn reports were of a ♀ in hawthorns Balgray Resr 13-21 July (DLC,JSW,VW), a juv in sycamores at Park Quay, Erskine on 24 July (AJR), 1 Glen Luss 22 Aug (HS), and 2 at Endrick Mouth 23-31 Aug (ANi).

 

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra

Spring arrival reports involved 1 at Millichen Flood on 5 May (JC), a ♂ at Burncrooks Resr on 9 May (FH), and 1 at Merryton on 11 May (AIE).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Bishop Loch3 IF Drumclog Muir 1 CJMcI Loch Ardinning 2 ECD
Burncrooks Reservoir 1 FHDumbrock Muir5 DO'B Muirhouse Muir 1 AKMcN
Coiregrogain1 ECDGlasgow, Millichen Farms 1 SL Muirshiel Country Park1 CMRS
Cowgill Loch 1 JVW Helensburgh GC 1 DHMCEStockie Muir 4 DLC
Culter Glen 5 JVW Inversnaid, Garrison1 ECD Troisgeach Bheag1 ECD
Douglas Water Pool 1 KSLang Craigs 2 ECD

Summary: 32 pairs at 17 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) following a sharp decrease during the past decade or longer, Whinchat is now a very scarce breeding species throughout Renfrewshire (IPG).

Autumn reports included a ♂ and three juvs at Coiregrogain 8 July (ECD), 1 Queenside Muir 11 July (CMRS), 1 Longhaugh Point 11 July (AJR), 1 Littleton Reservoir 22 July (JSW,VW), 1 at Blackthird Farm, Cardross on 26 July (FL), 1 at Cathkin Braes on 3 Aug and 30 Aug, 2 on 22 Aug and 4 Sep (SAW), a pair Merryton 10-23 Aug (AIE), a heavily moulting ♀ by Muirhead Burn at Rashiefield Bridge on 18 Aug, which was the observer's only record of the species in the year (IPG), 3 at Endrick Mouth 31 Aug (ANi), and 2 at Dumbrock Muir on 8 Sep (AKMcN).

 

Stonechat Saxicola rubicola

Winter-spring reports included a ♂ at Knockmountain 3 Jan, a ♀ Blackstoun Farm 13 Jan, a ♂ on 10 Feb (DSF), 2 Aird Meadow 11 Jan, 3 on 20 Jan, 2 ♂♂ on 2 Feb, 1 on 7 Feb and 10 Feb, 2 on 15 Feb, a ♀ on 26 Feb, 1 on on 1 Mar, 2 on 2 Mar (RSPB), a pair Colgrain marsh 13 Jan (DHMcE), a ♂ Balgray Resr 16 Jan, a pair on 20 Jan (SAW), 2 ♂♂ Darleith 19 Jan (FL), 2 Ardmore Point 27 Jan (ANi), a ♂ Lunderston Bay 5 Feb (DSF), 1 Elsrickle 9 Feb (AMcA), a pair at bend in road Windyhill (NS4056) 11 Feb (IPG), 2 Erskine 11 Feb (AJR), a ♂ Barscube Hill 12 Feb (DSF), a pair at the Black Cart Water SPA on 14 Feb (GTW), a ♂ Muirshiel Mine 15 Feb (CMRS), a pair at Weels Farm (NS357624) on 16 Feb, a pair Craigmarloch Marsh 17 Feb (IPG), 2 Gartloch Pool 7 Feb, 1 Possil Marsh 15 Feb (CRS), a pair Aird Meadow 21 Feb (MMcG), a pair (the ♂ singing) by Locherwood car park 27 Feb (IPG), a pair Craig Minnan 4 Mar (CMRS), a ♂ Hogganfield Marsh 6 Mar-7 Apr (CRS), a pair Cathkin Braes 14 Mar (SAW), and a pair Merryton 16 Mar (AIE).

Breeding reports (prs = usually singing ♂♂, pairs exhibiting anxiety, adults carrying food or with recently fledged young)

Site Grid RefPrs ObsSite Grid RefPrs Obs
Barnaigh/B786 junctionNS3566201IPG Bonnyton NS5552 1MMacL
Barscube Hill - 2DSF Bowfield Moss (NE)NS4005851IPG
Bennan Loch- 1JVW Bowfield Moss (SE) NS4005811IPG
Berryglen Burn NS2856431IPG Bowfield Moss (SW)NS3975811IPG
Berryglen Burn/mine roadNS2856491IPG Bridge of Weir, Lawmarnock Rd - 1GB
Bleak Law NT0653 1DT Bridge of Weir, Lochend Farm - 1GT
SiteGrid RefPrs ObsSiteGrid RefPrs Obs
Bridge of Weir, Warlock Road NS3826761IPG Kaim Dam NS3426251IPG
Bridge of Weir, West Yonderton NS3856711IPG Kelly Cut/Leap Moor NS2337051IPG
Brownside Farm NS4285861IPG Knockmountain- 2DSF
Calder Water (upper) NS2766501IPG Lang Craigs - 1ECD
Calder Water, N bank NS2816531IPG Loch Thom, Garvock NS2547111IPG
Carron Valley Reservoir - 1RGRi Loch Thom, SW side NS2517101IPG
Carrot- 1JVWLocherwood Comm Wood NS3564 1GBro
ClovenstoneNS3306171IPG Meal Mor nan Eag - 1ECD
Coiregrogain- 1ECDMerryton - 1AIE
Colgrain marsh - 1DHMcEMillersneuk Marsh - 1ADW
Conic Hill - 1AKMcNMonks Water (1.2km) NS7729 5IPG
Coplie Burn NS3116531IPG Mugdock Country Park NS5577 1GBro
Cornalees Farm NS2497181IPG Muirshiel Country Park NS3106331MMcG
Crawhin Hill NS2487161IPG Muirshiel Country Park NS3096341IPG
Creuch Hill NS2606871IPG Muirshiel Country Park NS3096331IPG
Daer Reservoir - 1JVWMyres Hill - 1JVW
Deil's Craig Dam- 1AKMcNNorth Rotten Burn NS2536781IPG
Douglas Estate - 2KSPilmuir Dam - 1JVW
Drumgrain Moss - 1JVWPossil Marsh- 1CRS
Dumbrock Muir - 2AKMcNQueenside BurnNS2966431IPG
Eaglesham TRS - 1JVWQueenside MuirNS2626441IPG
Endrick Mouth - 1AKMcNQueenside MuirNS2786421IPG
Garvock NS2577131MMcG Raith Burn NS3036291IPG
Glasgow, Millerston- 1CRS Rashiefield Bridge NS4035801IPG
Glen Fruin, Strone NS2638991MMcG Reivoch Marsh NS3995731IPG
Gleniffer Braes, Hollows AveNS4576101GTW Tinto- 1AKMcN
Helensburgh Reservoir - 1ANi Troisgeach Bheag - 2ECD
Hill of Barnaigh NS3666221IPG Walls Hill NS4095861IPG
Hillend Loch NS8667 1TCWeels FarmNS3546291IPG
Inversnaid, Garrison - 1ECDWenchly Top/Kelly BurnNS2356951IPG

Breeding summary: 81 pairs reported from 72 sites in 2008. Notes included: (i) first fledged young noted at Calder Water/South Rotten Burn confluence 19 May (IPG); (ii) pair with b/2+ Bowfield Moss 20 May (IPG); and (iii) the pair at Merryton was unsuccessful (AIE).

Autumn-winter reports included 2 prs and 7 juvs Knockmountain 28 June, a pair on 30 Oct, 3 on 26 Dec (DSF), a pair b/3 Colgrain Marsh 3 July (DHMcE), 3 Leperstone Resr 27 July, 2 juvs Barscube Hill 11 Aug, a pair on 1-2 Nov (DSF), 4 at Thornlybank Hill 16 Aug (GBro), 3 Merryton 23 Aug, 2 prs on 20 Sep, 4 on 12 Oct, 3 prs on 28 Oct-2 Nov, a pair on 16 Nov-7 Dec (AIE), 4 at Clovenstone 2 Sep (ECD), 1 Longhaugh Point 8 Sep (AJR), 1 Aird Meadow 12 Sep-22 Oct (RSPB), 1 Kaim Dam 14 Sep (GB), 2 at B786/Barnaigh junction 14 Sep (IPG), 4 (3 ♂♂) at Cathkin Braes 17 Sep, 2 on 2 Oct, a ♀ on 31 Oct (SAW), 9 at Rottenburn Bridge 22 Sep (MMcG), 2 Ardmore Point 23 Sep (DSF), 1 on 3 Oct (ANi), 2 at Craigend Farm, Strathblane on 26 Sep, 4 on 7 Oct, 1 on 14 Oct and 4 Nov (DK), 6 at South Medwin Pools 27 Sep (JTT), 4 at Darleith 28 Sep (FL), 1 at Arpochill 29 Sep (NWh), a ♂ Robroyston Park LNR 1 Oct (CRS), 7 Heathfield 9 Oct (MMcG), 4 at Lunderston Bay 12 Oct, 5 on 13 Oct, 2 on 2 Nov (FG), a ♂ Hogganfield Park LNR 15 Oct-9 Dec (CRS), a pair Aird Meadow 15-16 Oct (MMcG), a ♀ Balgray Resr 24 Oct (SAW), 2 on 28 Dec (JCh), a ♂ Possil Marsh 31 Oct (CRS), 2 Craigmarloch 4 Nov (DSF), 1 at Darleith 8-21 Nov, 2 on 25 Dec (FL), 1 at Easter Fannyside 9 Nov (ECD), 2 at Blackstoun Farm on 26 Nov and 31 Dec (DSF), a pair Waukmill Glen Resr 7 Dec (JSW,VW), a ♀ Windlaw Marsh 24 Dec, a ♀ beside Black Cart Water at Inchinnan 27 Dec (IPG), and 2 at Fannyside Mill on 31 Dec (MMcG).

 

Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe

Spring arrival/passage involved a ♂ Parklea 23 Mar (DSF), 2 ♂♂ Coiregrogain 29 Mar (ECD), a ♂ Glengonnar 30 Mar (ADW), a ♀ East Yonderton 30 Mar (AJR), 1 Muirshiel Mine 3 Apr (CMRS), 5 Barscube Hill 22 Apr (DSF), 7 Cathkin Braes 22 Apr (SAW), 10 in a ploughed field at Twechar on 26 Apr (KH), and an estimated 400 migrants on ca 12 km2 of semi-uplands Howwood-Uplawmoor, including 27 in two adjacent fields Reivoch-Rashiefield, on 5 May (IPG). An unusual observation was of a ♀ feeding nocturnally, mainly catching caterpillars, observed by car headlights on the minor road south of Walls Hill, for more than ten minutes (2215-2225 hrs) on 2 May (AB,IPG,RM).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Abington 1LB Culter Glen6JVW Lochcraig Reservoir 1JVW
Ben Glas1ECD Daer Reservoir1JVW Lowther Hill 1ECD
Ben Lomond 2ECD Garvock1MMcG Meall Mor nan Eag3ECD
Bennan Loch 1JVW Glen Fruin 1MMcG Monks Water (1.2 km) 2IPG
Calder Water/mine area2IPGGreen Lowther1ECD Muirshiel Country Park1MMcG
Coiregrogain 2ECD Hardridge (NS3267) 1IPG Queenside Muir 2CMRS
Cowgill Upper Reservoir 4ECD Loch Thom 1MMcG

Summary: 35 pairs at 20 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn reports included 10 feeding on exposed mud Loch Thom 30 July (MMcG), 10 on Queenside Muir 7 Aug (CMRS), 2 Barscube Hill 24 Aug (DSF), 2 Ardmore Point 14 Sep (DO'B), 3 Muirshiel Mine 16 Sep (CMRS), 4 Lunderston Bay 17 Sep (FG), 1 in Linn Park, Glasgow 21 Sep (SAW), 2 Strathgryfe 21 Sep (DSF), and a late 1 Queenside Loch 6 Oct (CMRS).

 

Dipper Cinclus cinclus

Winter-spring reports included one singing on the Black Cart Water above the Elliston weir at Howwood on 3 Jan (IPG), 3 on the River Clyde at the Botanic Gardens on 20 Jan (CJMcI), and 3 on the River Clyde at Daldowie on 12 Feb (CRS).

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs SitePrs Obs
Abington 1 LBDarleith Burn1 FL River Clyde, Falls of Clyde1 MMcG
Allander Walkway, Baldernock 1 JMu Duneaton Water 2 RJHRiver Gryfe, Houston 1 DSF
Ballochruin Bridge 1 AKM Glen Fruin, Crossroad 1 ANiRiver Kelvin, Garscube Estate1 TB
Black Burn 1 RJH Kip Water, Ardgowan 1 FG Ryat Linn1 JVW
Calder Water, Lochwinnoch 1 MMcG Loch Lomond, Firkin2 DHMWhite Cart Water, Hamills 1 GTW
Calder Water, Muirshiel1 IPG R Kelvin, Kelvinbridge 1 KF White Cart Water, Linn Park 2 SAW
Crook Burn 2 RJH River Clyde, Crossford1 JMcO

Summary: 24 pairs at 20 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 1 in song Garscube Estate 5 Nov (TB), 4 Kip Water 8 Nov, 5 on 19 Dec (FG), a pair on burn at bridge Knockbuckle Rd, Kilmacolm 27 Dec (AB,RCD), and a pair on the Black Cart Water at Elliston Weir on 29 Dec (IPG).

 

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Winter-spring reports included 18 Battery Park, Greenock 4 Jan (GMi), 25 Balornock 8 Jan (GRB), 30 East Millichen Farm 12 Jan (JC), and 20 Cardross Bay 25 Mar (AKMcN).

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSite Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Crookston 1 SPMGlasgow, Millichen Farms 8 SLLochwinnoch RSPB Nature Centre 3 JL
Darleith1 FLHigh Banton garden 11PGCRenfrew, Marjory Road3 ECD
Drymen1 SPMHowwood (as below) 7 IPG
F&C Canal, Glasgow Bridge 1 SPMMid Netherton/Pedmyre 2 SL

Summary: 38 pairs at 10 sites reported in 2008. Very poorly recorded (ed.). Supplementary notes: (i) 7 prs reared 47 young (including second broods) Kenmure View/Elliston Farm, Howwood (IPG), (ii) first fledged young noted Foxbar 13 May (GTW).

Autumn-winter reports included 30 feeding on pampas grass seeds in Lochfield Rd, Paisley on 28 July (TB), 40 at Dykeneuk 7 Aug (MMacL), 60 at East Millichen Farm 10 Aug (CRS), a ♀ Upper Carbarns Farm 23 Aug, only the ninth record there since 1991 (AIE), 31 Aird Meadow 27 Oct (RSPB), 34 at Barshaw Park, Paisley on 20 Dec (SPM), and 40 at Blackstoun Farm on 31 Dec (DSF).

 

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus

Winter-spring reports involved in the North Paisley area 8 at Blackstoun Farm (in field by Blackstone Mains Cottage) on 10 Jan, 15 on 17 Jan, 7 on 28 Jan, max 25 on 2 Feb, 2 on 5 Feb, 10 on 13 Feb, 20 on 14 Feb, 6 on 24 Feb and 27 Feb, 3 on 19 Mar, additionally a pair at Blackstone Mains Farm 27 Feb (GTW), a pair at Middleton Farm 6 Feb, 1 Boghead Farm 18 May (GTW); in North Glasgow 9 at West Millichen Farm on 12 Jan, max 16 on 28 Jan, 11 on 9 Mar, 6 on 11 Mar, (CRS), 6 on 5 Apr (JC), 12 on 13 Apr (JJM), 3 on 5 May (JC), and 4 at East Millichen Farm on 11 Mar (CRS).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or adults visiting apparent nest sites)

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Blackstone Mains2 GTW Glasgow, Millichen Farms9 SL
Boghead Farm 1 GTW Walkinshaw Gardens4 GTW

Summary: 16 pairs at only 4 sites reported in 2008. Still very scarce, but under-recorded and some studies not reporting results (ed.).

Autumn-winter reports were of 3 at Blackstone Mains and 2 at Walkinshaw Gardens on 10 Aug, 8 at the Old Schoolhouse, Inkerman on 31 Oct (GTW), 17 on 16 Nov (PJT) and 4 Dec, 3 at Walkinshaw Farm 31 Oct (GTW), and 6 at Rushyhill, Lenzie on 23 Nov (BZ).

 

Dunnock Prunella modularis

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs Site PrsObs Site Prs Obs
Ardmore Point 1 AKM Glasgow, Early Braes 2 CRS Merryton/Carbarns 12AIE
Bargarran 4 MMcGGlasgow, Millichen Farms 12 SL Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 10SL
Baron's Haugh 3 RSPBGlasgow, Ruchill Park 5 LMcB Milngavie Station 1AKM
Barscube Hill 7 DSF Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 6 SL Netherton of Glenboig Farm 1AH
Carron Valley Forest2 AKM Kilmardinny Loch2 AKM Renfrew, Marjory Rd 1ECD
Crookston 3 SPM L Lomond, Rowardennan 1 MMcG Strathclyde C P, North Haugh8IL
Glasgow, Bingham's Pond 2 LMcB Langbank 14 DSF Strathclyde C P, Roman Fort 6IL
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 8 SL Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw 4 JL
Glasgow, Dawsholm Pk 5 LMcB Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch1 JL

Summary: 121 pairs at 25 sites reported in 2008.

 

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea

Winter-spring reports included one Hogganfield Loch 4 Jan (ECD), and one flying high NW over Comers Hill on 19 May (IPG).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Abington 1JBBClochodrick Bridge 1IPGLamington 1JVW
Allander Wakway, Baldernock1JMu Cowgill Upper Resr 1ECD Loch Arklet 1ECD
Allander Water, Milngavie 1AKMCulter Glen 1JVW Loch Lomond, Firkin 3DHM
Ardgowan, Inverkip1FG Dampton Bridge (NS3763)1IPGLochcraig Reservoir 1JVW
Auchenfoyle Camp 1SPM Darleith 1FL Lochwinnoch, R Calder1JL
Ballochruin Bridge 1AKMGarscube Estate 1TB North Rotten Burn 2IPG
Bennan Loch 1JVW Glasgow, Castlemilk Glen 1CRSPowbrone Burn 1JVW
Black Cart Water (NS4363)1IPGGlen Luss 1HS River Calder, Lochwinnoch 1ZB
Calder, Lyles Hill-Muirshiel3IPGHelensburgh Reservoir 1ANiWhite Cart Water, Linn Park4SAW

Summary: 35 pairs at 27 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 3 on Bowling Harbour wall 29 Aug (IPG). Urban records were of 1 on roof of Glasgow City Chambers 3 Oct (IPG), 1 at Normandy Hotel, Renfrew on 13 Oct (ECD), 3 at Hillington Industrial Estate on 31 Oct (DHMcE), 2 at Morrisons car park, Johnstone 2 Nov (IPG), 1 at Blythswood, Renfrew on 8 Nov (ECD), 1 on roof of Graham Hill Building, Glasgow Caledonian University 24 Dec (IPG), and 1 in a Helensburgh garden on 29 Dec (ANi).

 

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba

Spring passage involved 1 at Ballochruin Pool 12 Apr (AKMcN), 3 at Carbarns Pool on 12 Apr, 6 on 14 Apr, 2 on 16 Apr, 3 on 17 Apr (DJA,AIE), 1 Balgray Resr 13 Apr (JJS), 4 on 27 Apr (SAW), 1 Endrick Mouth 13 Apr (JBB), 1 west end Gryfe No.1 Resr 20 Apr (IPG), 10 Bridgend Farm Pool 26 Apr (KH), 3 on 7 May (ADW), 6 Cardross Bay 26 Apr-7 May (AGG), 2 Waulkmill Glen Resr 27 Apr (PHB,DLC), 25 in field by car park at Ardmore Point 29 Apr (IPG), and 3 at Millichen Flood on 5 May (JC). Autumn reports were of 3 (amongst 43 M alba trapped for ringing) at The Olympia roost, East Kilbride on 15 Aug (IL et al), 1 at Ardmore Point 24 Aug (AKMcN), and 1 at Cornalees Bridge on 7 Sep (MMcG).

 

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarelli

Winter-spring reports included 20 Newshot Island 20 Mar (AJR).

Breeding reports

SitePrs Obs SitePrs Obs SitePrs Obs
Ballochruin Pool 1AKMcN Faslane 1 MMcGMerryton/Carbarns 1AIE
Barscube Hill 2DSFGarvock, Loch Thom1 IPGMid Netherton/Pedmyre1SL
Biggar Moss1JVW Glasgow, Millichen Farms 5 SL Muirshiel Country Park 1CMRS
Carrot 1JVW Hillington IE 1 DHMcE Muirshiel mine 1IPG
Colgrain 1DHMcE Knockbuckle 1 IPGNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1DAB
Culter Glen 1JVW Langbank2 DSF Powbrone Burn 1JVW
Endrick Mouth 1DHMcE Loch Lomond, Firkin 2 DHMcE South Newton 1IPG

Summary: 28 pairs at 21 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 21 at Lunderston Bay 21 July (FG), 25 at Hogganfield Loch on 7 Aug (CRS), 30 Moyne Farm 13 Aug (JSW,VW), ca 300 at The Olympia roost, East Kilbride on 15 Aug (IL et al), 27 at the Jubilee Hospital, Clydebank 20 Aug (GBro), 15 Cornalees Bridge 7 Sep (MMcG), 26 Barscube Hill 19 Sep (DSF), 25 Linn Park Golf Course 20 Sep (SAW), and 43 at Carbarns Pool on 11 Oct (AIE).

 

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

Winter-spring reports included 32 at Knockmountain on 3 Jan (DSF), 14 Millichen Flood 12 Jan (CRS), 42 at Blackstoun Farm 27 Jan, 94 Lunderston Bay 5 Feb (DSF), 27 at East Mitchelton, Howwood on 2 Mar (IPG), 20 Ardmore Point 4 Mar (HAD), and 80 at Shielhill Farm on 14 Mar. Spring return included passage 20 Balgray Resr 19 Mar (JSW,VW), a singing ♂ Windyhill near Rowbank Resr on 29 Mar, 7 birds/2km along Muirshiel mine track on 30 Mar (IPG), 50 at Newshot Island 31 Mar (AJR), 40 Barscube Hill 7 Apr (DSF), 40 Shielhill Farm on 9 Apr (MMcG), 50 Blackstoun Farm 12 Apr (DSF), 30 Endrick Mouth 12 Apr (AKMcN), and 31 at Merryton/Carbarns on 17 Apr (AIE).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Barscube Hill11 DSFEndrick Mouth1AKMMerryton/Carbarns 5AIE
Bennan Loch 2 JVW F&CC, Tintock 1SPM Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 1SL
Bowling Oil Terminal 1 JVW Finnich Glen 1AKMMuirshiel Country Park 12 CMRS
Brownside Braes1 TB Glasgow, Carnbooth Fm 1SL Springhill Farm 14IPG
Cameron Muir 1 AKMGlasgow, Windlaw Farm3SL Town of Inchinnan-Barnsford Br2GTW
Corse Hill3 JVW Harelaw Resr, Greenock 12 DSFWalls Hill12 IPG
Daer Reservoir 6 JVW Kaim Dam (NE side) 6IPGWest Renfrew Heights (63ha)68 IPG
Drumgrain Moss10 GTWLoch Ardinning 1AKM
East Ferry 5 DSFLonghaugh Point 5DSF

1 in one grass field, opposite farmhouse

Meadow Pipit breeding summary: 175 pairs at 25 'sites' reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first song and display flight Windyhill 29 Mar (IPG); (ii) an estimated 6,176 pairs (based on a sample of nine 500 x 140 metre transects, n=68 territories) in the Renfrewshire/Inverclyde part of the 'Renfrewshire Heights' SSSI (5,724 ha), a mean density of 108 pairs km-2 (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 60 Longhaugh Point 18 July, 110 Harelaw Resr, Port Glasgow 16 Aug (DSF), 30 Blackthird Farm, Cardross 22 Aug (FL), 30 Colgrain Hill 31 Aug (DHMcE), 40 at Raith Burn 2 Sep (ECD), 59 Fintry 9 Sep (NT), 50 at Littleton Reservoir 12 Sep (JSW,VW), 150 Barscube Hill 19 Sep (DSF), 49 Newshot Island 19 Sep (AJR), 60 Black Cart Water 16 Oct (GTW), 50 Balgray Resr 29 Oct (JSW,VW), 50 Darleith 2 Nov, 25 on 29 Nov (FL), 250 Auchans, Linwood 1 Dec, 115 on 27 Dec (IPG), 40 Craigend Farm 17 Dec (DK), 24 High Auchencloich 29 Dec, and 18 Blackstoun Farm 31 Dec (DSF).

 

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis

Spring arrival (singing ♂♂) involved 2 Cashel 15 Apr (DSF), 1 Mugdock Country Park 20 Apr (AGJ), 5 at Sallochy 21 Apr (IF), 1 NE over Barscube Hill 22 Apr (DSF), 1 at Inversnaid 22 Apr (RSPB), and 25 singing ♂♂ in 2km walk Sallochy Cottage-Ross Wood 24 Apr (IF).

Breeding reports

Site Prs Obs SitePrs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ben Glas 1 ECD Garvock1 MMcG L Lomond, Rowardennan 6 CJMcI
Broadlee Glen1 IPGGleann nan Caorann 3 ECD L Lomond, Sallochy-Ross25IF
Cander Moss SWT 1 SK Glen Moss 1 DSFLoch Ardinning 1 ECD
Corsliehill Wood 2 DSF Helensburgh Golf Course1 DHMMugdock Country Park1 AGJ
Drumpellier Golf Course1 CLInversnaid 1 RSPB Muirshiel Country Park 3 CMRS
Dumbrock Loch1 ECD L Lomond, Inchcailloch1 AKMStockie Muir 2 DLC

Summary: 53 pairs at 18 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn passage reports were of 1 over Strathclyde Country Park 4 Aug, 1 on 19 Aug (IL), 2 over Bellshill on 5 Aug (IL), 1 Harelaw Resr, Greenock 16 Aug, 1 SW over Barscube Hill 23 Aug (DSF), and 1 S over Merryton/Carbarns on 23 Aug (AIE).

 

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta

One at the Crom Mhin, Endrick Mouth 1-2 Dec (IF), still there on 5 Dec (JBB), 2 seen on 6 Dec (CJMcI,JJS), at least one remaining on various dates 8-29 Dec (IF,ANi,JJS et al).

 

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus

Winter-spring reports included 1 Battery Park, Greenock 4 Jan (GMi), 1 at East India Harbour on 6 Jan and 4 Mar, 1 Ironotter Point 6 Jan, 1 on 9 Mar, 2 Peaton Layo 11 Jan (IPG), 5 Ardmore Point 12 Jan (IPG), 3 on 13 Jan, 4 on 13 Feb (IPG), 5 on 25 Mar (AKMcN), 4 Cardross 12 Jan (JBB), 1 Craigendoran Pier 21 Jan (ANi), 3 Helensburgh shore 27 Jan, 1 on 3 Feb, 2 on 9 Mar (DHMcE), 4 Victoria Harbour 1 Feb (FG), 3 at Kingston Dock 27 Mar, and 2 at Princes Pier on 8 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports

SitePrsObsSitePrsObsSite PrsObs
Gourock, Cardwell Bay 1 IPG Greenock, Custom House Quay 1 SPMGreenock,East India Harbour 1 IPG
Greenock, Cappielow1 SPMGreenock, Victoria Dock 1 SPMPort Glasgow, Kingston Dock1 IPG

Breeding summary: 6 pairs at 6 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a bird alarm-calling East India Harbour 27 Apr (IPG); (ii) pair alarm-calling Kingston Dock, Port Glasgow 18 May (IPG); one on pavement at Cardwell Bay 22 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports involved 1 at East India Harbour on 17 Aug, 2 on 26 Dec, 1 Wemyss Point 31 Aug, 1 on 17 Sep, 1 on 19 Sep (IPG), 1 at Ardmore Point on 26 Sep (ANi), 2 on 5 Oct (DSF), 3 Ardmore-Cardross 29 Sep (AKMcN), 2 Helensburgh 5 Oct, 2 on 1 Nov, 2 on 9 Nov (DHMcE), 6 at Cardross Bay on 1 Nov (JBB), 1 Kingston 2 Nov (IPG), and 9 Ardmore Point 14 Dec (ADW).

 

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs

Winter-spring reports included 75 at feeding station in observer's garden Kenmure View, Howwood 8 Jan, 31 on 10 Mar (IPG), 1,350 Blackstoun Farm 13 Jan, 1,000 on 27 Jan-4 Feb, 600 on 5 Feb, 1,720 on 10 Feb, 2,000 on 15 Feb, 200 on 24 Feb, 1,000 on 4 Mar, 420 on 7 Mar (DSF,GTW), and 100 Douglas Estate 11 Apr (JBB). First song heard Garscube Estate 12 Feb (TB).

Chaffinch breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObs Site PrsObsSite PrsObs
Ardmore Point 6 AKMF&C Canal, Glasgow Bridge2 SPM Milngavie, Lennox Park1 AKM
Balloch12 LMcB Ferryhill Plantation 14 DSF Milngavie, Mains Estate 2 AKM
Baron's Haugh 25 RSPB Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 23 SL Milngavie, Station 2 AKM
Barscube Hill 22 DSFGlasgow, Dawsholm Park 7 LMcB Mingavie, Baldernock House 2 AKM
Black Linn Resr 3 SPM Glasgow, Millichen Farm 20 SL Mingavie, Low Craigton 3 AKM
Bleak Law 4 DT Glasgow, Necropolis 2 CRS Monklands Canal, Drumpellier 8 CL
Brownside Braes 10 TB Glasgow, Ruchill Park 10 LMcB Mosspark3 SPM
Buchley Pool 1 AKMGlasgow, Windlaw Farm6 SL Mugdock visitor centre 2 SPM
Corse Hill 20 JVW Greenland Reservoir 4 SPM Muirshiel Country Park6 CMRS
Craigallian1 AKMHamilton Low Parks 3 SPM Myre Hill 20 JVW
Craigallian Pltn1 AKMHawkhead Estate 1 SPM Neilston Pad2 SPM
Crookston 3 SPM Kilmardinny Loch5 SPM Netherton of Glenboig Fm 2 DAB
Croy Quarry3 SPM Langbank 17 DSF Overtoun House 2 SPM
Daer Reservoir 3 JVW Linwood Moss6 DSF Pollok Country Park1 SPM
Dougalston (S) 7 AKMLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 13 JL Strathclyde C P, footbridge5 SPM
Dougalston Loch4 AKMLochwinnoch, Barr Loch12 ZBStrathclyde C P, North Haugh 11 IL
Dumbrock Muir 3 SPM Merryton/Carbarns 28 AIE Strathclyde C P, Roman Fort5 IL
Endrickvale 2 DAB Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 11 SL Treesbank 3 SD

Summary: 394 pairs at 54 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) first fledged young seen Muirshiel Country Park 6 June (IPG).

Autumn-winter counts included 520 at Blackstoun Farm 8 Nov, 805 on 26 Nov, 810 on 29 Dec, 1,100 on 31 Dec, 310 at Barscube Hill on 21 Nov (DSF), 200 at Cardross 5 Dec (JBB), 300 at Garvald Quarry 22 Dec, 300 Walston 22 Dec (JTT), and 350 at West Porton on 28 Dec (JND,ADW).

 

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla

Winter-spring reports included 1 Langbank 1 Jan (DSF), 1 Auchlochan 1 Jan, 8 on 11 Jan (AT), 1 in a Dolphinton garden 8 Jan-4 Mar (AMcA), a ♂ in a Bellshill garden 9 Jan (IL), a ♂ at a bird table Crawfordjohn on 20 Jan and 2 Feb (JDa), a ♀ Newton Mearns 24 Jan (JMcO), 1 Endrick Mouth 28 Jan (ANi), a ♀ in garden Millfield Hill, Erskine on 2 Feb and 26 Feb (AJR), 2 in an Ailsa Dr, Giffnock garden 6 Feb (ACMB), a ♀ in garden Kenmure View, Howwood 10-11 Mar (IPG), and in a Linburn, Erskine garden a ♀ on 2 Jan, 9 Feb and 26 Feb, and 2 (♂ and ♀) on 8 Mar (ACMB).

Autumn-winter reports were of 1 over Park Quay, Erskine on 12 Oct (AJR), 3 at Lochwinnoch RSPB Reserve 30 Oct (RSPB), 1 NW over Barscube Hill on 2 Nov (DSF), 1 over Strathclyde Country Park 29 Nov (IL), 2 at Luggiebank 29 Nov (LR), 4 Walston 29 Nov (JTT), and 1 (a ♀) at Blackstoun Farm on 3 Dec (DSF).

 

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula

Winter-spring reports included 9 Gleddoch Golf Course 2 Jan (DSF), 5 Maudslie Woods 19 Jan (JMcO), 11 at Southhill Wood, Dolphinton 11 Jan (AMcA), 6 Stratblane 9 Feb (GJC), 9 Linwood Moss 7 Mar (DSF), a pair Frankfield Loch 14 Mar (FJM), and 5 ♂♂ in an Ailsa Dr, Giffnock garden on 25 May (ACMB).

Breeding reports (prs = usually territorial pairs, or pairs with recently fledged juvs)

Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Baron's Haugh 3RSPB Glasgow, Linn Park 2SAW Mearns Castle 1JVW
Cathkin Braes 1CRS Glasgow, Millichen Farms 3SL Merryton/Carbarns1AIE
Cloch Caravans 1FGGlasgow Green 1CRSMid Netherton/Pedmyre 3SL
Corse Hill 2JVW Glen Moss 1ECD Muirshiel Country Park2CMRS
Darleith1FLKilmacolm, Porterfield Rd 1DHMMyres Hill 1JVW
Darnley Mill1JVW Lawmarnock Wood 1IPGSCP, North Haugh 2IL
Dumbarton, Crosslet1AH L Lomond, Rowardennan1MMcG SCP, Roman Fort3IL
Gartloch Woods 1WMTL Lomond, Sallochy1ECD Swinetrees Burn 1IPG
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 3SL Lochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 2RSPB Waulkmill Glen 1JVW

Summary: 42 pairs at 27 sites reported in 2008.

Autumn-winter reports included 11 (3 ♂♂, 3 ♀♀ and 5 juvs) in an Ailsa Dr, Giffnock garden on 1 Aug, 6 on 14 Dec (ACMB), 9 (two family parties) Corse Hill 31 Aug (JSW,VW), 8 Barscube Hill 3 Oct (DSF), a ♀ in High Street car park, Glasgow 22 Oct (IPG), 17 at Muirshiel Country Park on 29 Oct, 18 on 16 Dec (CMRS), 10 Baron's Haugh 1 Nov (TF), 6 Ladymuir Resr 19 Nov (ECD), and 13 (including 5 adult ♂♂) along the cycle path just east of Kilmacolm on 29 Dec (JGo).

 

Greenfinch Chloris chloris

Winter-spring reports included 40 Battery Park, Greenock 4 Jan (GMi), 15 Ardmore North Bay 14 Jan (ECD), 30 Endrickvale 17 Jan (DAB), a ♂ in song Langbank 28 Jan (DSF), 48 going to roost in laurels at junction of Hurlet/Kennishead Rd, Glasgow on 22 Feb, and 3 singing ♂♂ at Locherwood Community Woodland on 27 Feb (IPG).

Greenfinch breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObs Site PrsObs SitePrsObs
Auchensale Bridge 1 IPGGlasgow, Dawsholm Pk 7 LMcBMid Netherton/Pedmyre3 SL
Braehead, M&S car park 1 IPGGlasgow, Millichen Farms 5 SLMilngavie, Mains Estate1 AKM
Carntyne Station 1 AKMGlasgow, Necropolis 1 CRSMugdock visitor centre 1 SPM
Carrot 1 JVW Glasgow, Ruchill Park 6 LMcBMuirshiel Country Park 1 CMRS
Corse Hill 2 JVW Glasgow, Shanks Strret 1 GRB Myres Hill 2 JVW
Crookston 4 SPM Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 3 SLNewton Mearns, Kirkhill 1 JVW
Croy 2 SPM Glasgow Green 1 AHu Pollok Country Park 5 SPM
Dougalston (south)2 AKMHamilton Low Parks 2 SPMRenfrew, Marjory Road 1 ECD
Dougalston Loch 1 AKMKilmardinny Loch1 AKM SCP, North Haugh 4 IL
E K, Balmoral Place 1 NWhLangbank 5 DSFSCP, Roman Fort 3 IL
E K, Heritage Park 1 SPM Leadhills1 JTT Tetrad NS36M (part) 6 IPG
Endrickvale 1 DAB Littleton Reservoir 1 JVW Westerton Station1 AKM
Glasgow, Bingham's Pd 2 LMcB Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw 3 JL
Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 5 SL Merryton/Carbarns3 AIE

Summary: 94 pairs at 40 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) widespread and presumably breeding widely in Renfrewshire/Inverclyde countryside, especially at or around farm steadings; also fairly common in suburban/parkland habitats, but under-recorded (IPG).

Autumn-winter counts included 50 Balgray Resr 29 July (JSW,VW), 80 Upper Carbarns Farm 23 Aug (AIE), 280 Ardmore Point 5 Oct (DSF), 22 at Hogganfield Loch 8 Nov (LMcB), 30 in a Linburn, Erskine garden on 21 Dec (ACMB), 15 West Porton 28 Dec (ADW), and 20 at Blackstoun Farm on 31 Dec (DSF).

 

Twite Linaria flavirostris

Winter-spring reports included an exceptionally large flock of 150 beside the River Gryfe at Loanhead on 9 Feb (JJS). The only breeding season report was of a singing ♂ at Inversnaid on 16 Apr (RSPB). Autumn-winter reports involved 7 in Cardross Bay on 27 Oct (ANi), 4 at Lamington on 12 Nov (PHB,JSW, VW), and 18 at Balmaha Bay on 2 Dec (IF).

 

Linnet Linaria cannabina

Winter-spring counts included 300 Arkleston 7 Jan (ECD), 185 East Yonderton 17 Jan (ECP), 200 at Blackstoun Farm on 13 Jan, 400 on 14 Jan (DSF), 400 on 2 Feb, 100 on 4 Feb (GTW), 85 on 12 Apr (DSF), 60 Cardross Bay 22 Jan (ANi), 70 at East Millichen Farm on 3 Feb (JC), 70 Balgray Resr 9 Feb (JCh), 330 Finlaystone Estate 14 Feb (DSF), and 82 at North Kerse on 24 Apr (MMcG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs, singing ♂♂ or pairs with recently fledged juvs)

Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Ardmore Point 1 ECD Erskine, Park Quay 1 ECD Loch Thom 1 MMcG
Arrarat Hill 2 IPGFinnich Glen 1 AKMcN Longhaugh Point 1 ECD
Barscube Hill 7 DSF Glasgow, Millichen Farms 3 SL Merryton/Carbarns 3 AIE
Bowling Oil Terminal 1 JVW Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 3 SL Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 1 SL
Brownside Braes 2 TB Harelaw Resr, Greenock 3 DSFReivoch Farm2 IPG
Carrot 1 JVW Helensburgh shore1 DHMcE Tetrad NS36M (part) 4 IPG
Colgrain 2 DHMcE Kaim Dam 1 IPGWateryetts 2 IPG
Cornalees Farm 2 MMcGLamington1 JVW West Ferry 1 IPG

Summary: 47 pairs at 24 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a considerable decrease through-out Renfrewshire and Inverclyde (presumably also elsewhere) during past ten years, no longer a common nester in maintained field boundary hedges (IPG); (ii) 2 prs with at least 8 juvs (flock 14 birds) at Wateryetts on 3 July (IPG); (iii) 2 prs with 5 juvs Arrarat Hill 18 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 100 at Darleith on 25 July, 50 on 30 July (FL), 40 Balgray Resr 29 July (JSW,VW), 17 Cornalees Farm 4 Aug (IPG), 20 Barscube Hill 12 Aug (DSF), 100 Craigend Farm 29 Aug (DK), 100 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 29 Aug (DAB), 50 Cathkin Braes, Glasgow 17 Sep, 200 on 24 Dec (SAW), 20 Blackstoun Farm 12 Oct (GTW), 160 on 8 Nov, 60 on 29 Dec (DSF), 80 at East Millichen Farm on 16 Oct, 185 on 18 Nov, 65 on 8 Dec (CRS), 50 at Candrens Farm 30 Oct (GTW), 210 Longhaugh Point 20 Nov (DSF), 230 Windlaw Farm 25 Nov (IPG,CRS), 40 South Medwin Pools 22 Dec, and 50 at Walston on 22 Dec (JTT).

 

Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret

Winter-spring reports included 160 passing in 2 hours “over the Roman Fort” at Strathclyde Country Park on 8 Jan (IL), 42 Blackstoun Farm 13 Jan (DSF), 52-64 daily to feeders in a Bellshill garden 15 Jan-9 Feb (IL), 36 Mosspark 19 Jan (SPM), 40 on birch Victoria Park, Glasgow 29 Jan (per JJM), 30 Lamont Farm, Erskine 7 Feb (JBB), 12 at feeders in Ailsa Dr, Giffnock garden 8 Feb (ACMB), 20 feeding on alder Alnus sp., MacFarlane St, Paisley 15 Feb (GTW), max 30 coming to feeders in a Marjory Rd, Renfrew garden 26 Feb (ECD), and 14-37 coming to feeders at Muirlees Crescent, Milngavie during 26 Feb-12 Mar (SJL).

Breeding reports

Site Prs ObsSite Prs ObsSite Prs Obs
Barscube Hill3DSF Corsliehill Wood 2 DSF Lochwinnoch, Barr Loch 4 JL
Br of Weir, Torr Wood1IPG Culter Glen 2 JVWMid Netherton/Pedmyre 1 SL
Brownside Braes1TBGallangad Plantation 1 AKM Mugdock Country Park1 AKM
Carron Valley Forest 2AKM Gryfe No.2 Resr 1 IPG Muirshiel Country Park 1 IPG
Commonhead Moss1CRS Loch Ardinning 1 AKM Neilston Pad 1 JVW
Corse Hill 5JVWLochcraig Reservoir 1 JVWStrathclyde C P, North Haugh1 IL

Summary: 30 pairs at 18 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) a ♂ in song Gryfe Plantation just east of Garvock Lodge 27 Apr (IPG).

Post-breeding reports included a flock of 100 feeding on ground Arrarat Hill 18 July (IPG), 30 over Denholm Terrace, Greenock 3 Oct (ADW), 35 over the Roman Fort, Strathclyde Country Park 14 Oct (IL), 20 Craigend Farm 6 Nov (DK), and 11 coming to feeders in a Marjory Rd, Renfrew garden on 10 Dec (ECD).

 

Crossbill Loxia curvirostra

Widespread in 2008: early year (Jan-May) reports were of 6 at Gryfe Plantation on 2 Jan (ECD), 9 on 17 Feb (SJM), 6 on 28 May, 2 on 31 May (MMcG), 6 W over Barscube Hill 6 Jan, 2 on 4 Mar (DSF), 3 at Southhill Woods, Dolphinton 11 Jan, 1 on 12 Feb (AMcA), 5 at Muirshiel Country Park on 17 Jan, 13 on 19 Jan, 8 on 20 Jan, 11 on 22 Jan, 1 on 10 Feb, 5 on 27 Feb, 8 on 25 Mar, 7 on 31 Mar (CMRS), 1 over Carbeth Loch on 24 Jan (AKMcN), 4 at Mugdock Country Park 26 Jan, 1 on 24 Feb, a pair on 15 Mar and 19 Apr (GJC), 13 at west end Carron Valley Forest 28 Jan (AKMcN), 11 on 5 Apr (RGRi), 13 on 13 Apr (AKMcN), a pair at Brown Hill (NS4476) on 6 Feb, a ♂ there on 25 Mar (ECD), 5 at Myres Hill on 15 Feb, a pair on 27 Apr (JSW,VW), 10 Corse Hill 17 Feb, 3 on 20 Apr (JSW,VW), a pair Loch Ardinning 17 Feb (AKMcN), 9 Gryfe No.1 Resr 17 Feb (SJM), a pair at Locherwood Community Woodland 27 Feb (IPG), 5 at Ladymuir Forest on 2 Mar (DSF), a pair at west end 20 Apr (IPG), 4 Kirkfieldbank 7 Mar (ADW), 5 Meikle Bin 23 Mar (JTT), 3 at Craigallian Plantation 6 Apr (AKMcN), 6 Craig Minnan 11 Apr (CMRS), 10 Black Linn Reservoir 14 Apr (SPM), a singing ♂ at Cleuch Farm, Crawfordjohn 19 Apr, a ♀ on 20 Apr, a pair feeding on composted seeds in a Crawfordjohn garden 29 Apr, a ♂ and 3 ♀♀ there 4 May, nearby 20 feeding on larches at Cleuch Forest 5 May (JDa), 3 at Corse Hill, Eaglesham 20 Apr (JSW,VW), a singing ♂ Mugdock village 22 Apr (AGJ), 2 at Finnich Glen 8 May (AKMcN), 2 Gleddoch Plantation 2 May (DSF), 12 over Falls of Clyde 26 May (SKa), and 6 at Gryfe Planatation on 28 May, 2 on 31 May (MMcG).

Probable/confirmed breeding records involved 12 including at least one juv Carron Valley Forest 13 Apr (AKMcN), a pair nest-building on the west side of Ladymuir Forest on 20 Apr (IPG), and nearby an adult with 5 juvs Muirshiel Country Park on 25 June (CMRS).

June-December records were of 4 over Lang Craigs 24 June (GJB), 30 Gryfe Plantation 27 June, 6 on 5 Oct (MMcG), 1 calling in plantation near Libberton beside B7016 (at NT005425) on 29 June (DKB), 1 calling Rowardennan 29 June (AKMcN), 1 Newshot Island 30 June, 6 on 30 July (AJR), 4 W over Colgrain 5 July (DHMcE), 10 at Muirshiel Country Park on 8 July, a ♀ on 25 July, 8 on 30 July, 4 on 13 Aug, 5 on 24 Nov, 6 on 10 Dec, 2 on 23 Dec (CMRS), 2 Knockmountain 10 July, 1 W over there on 30 Oct (DSF), 2 Gallangad Plantation 20 July (AKMcN), 3 over Glen Moss 27 July, 5 SW over Barscube Hill 27 July, a ♂ there 25 Sep, a ♀ on 19 Oct, 1 N overhead on 24 Oct, 2 on 2 Nov (DSF), 1 E over Denholm Terrace, Greenock on 27 July, 1 over on 26 Nov (ADW), 1 E over Ballochruin Bridge 2 Aug, 1 Carron Valley Forest 3 Aug (AKMcN), 2 on 22 Oct (ECD), 3 Strathblane 20 Aug (ADW), 1 SE over Knockmountain 2 Sep (IPG), 10 flying across the West Highland Way between Rowardennan and Rowchoish on 24 Sep (RAB), 1 Erskine 1 Oct (AJR), 1 Craigend Farm, Strathblane 2 Oct (DK), 3 Drumclog Muir 12 Oct (CJMcI), 3 Darleith 30 Oct (FL), 12 at Chatelherault Country Park on 9 Nov (JMcO), and 7 over Cathkin Braes Golf Course on 9 Nov (IL).

 

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis

Winter-spring reports included 22 Battery Park, Greenock 4 Jan (GMi), 30 at Finlaystone Estate on 14 Feb (DSF), and a comment that the species was “unusually scarce with only occasional pairs but no flocks seen” in West Renfrewshire Jan-Mar, main return noted from 24 Apr onwards, singing ♂♂ widespread central-west Renfrewshire 27 Apr (IPG).

Breeding reports (prs = singing ♂♂ or evidence of confirmed breeding)

Site Prs ObsSite PrsObs Site PrsObs
Allander/Kelvin 1 AKM F&CC, Laigh Kenmure1 SPM Longhaugh Point 1 ECD
Balgray Reservoir 1 JVWGarscube Estate 4 TB Merryton/Carbarns2 AIE
Bargarran1 MMcG Glasgow, Bingham's Pond2 LMcB Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 3 SL
Baron's Haugh 2 RSPB Glasgow, Carnbooth Farm 3 SL Mugdock visitor centre 1 SPM
Barscube Hill 2 DSF Glasgow, Dawsholm Park 1 LMcB Muirshiel Country Park1 CMRS
Bowling Terminal 1 JVWGlasgow Green1 CRSMyres Hill 1 JVW
Braehead car park 1 IPG Glasgow, Millichen Farms4 SL Neilston Pad1 SPM
Brownside Braes 2 TBGlasgow, Necropolis 1 CRSNM, King Henry's Knowe 2 JVW
Bull Wood3 SPM Glasgow, Ruchill Park 6 LMcB Newton Mearns, Kirkhill1 JVW
Caplaw Farm 1 IPG Glasgow, Windlaw Farm2 SL Overtoun House 1 SPM
Claddoch1 AKM Gleniffer Braes 1 SPM Parkhill Wood 2 ECD
Colgrain 2 DHM Hamilton Low Parks 3 SPM Pilmuir Dam1 JVW
Corse Hill 1 JVWHawkhead Estate 2 SPM Pollok Country Park2 SPM
Crookston 2 SPM Hogganfield Park LNR 1 CRSRanfurly Castle Golf Course2 IPG
Dumbarton Rock1 JVWLamington1 JVW Renfrew, Marjory Road 2 ECD
Dumbrock Muir 1 SPM Lang Craigs 1 ECD SCP, North Haugh 2 IL
Erskine Hotel1 SPM Langbank 3 DSFSCP, Roman Fort1 IL
F&CC, Glasgow Bridge1 SPM Linwood Moss5 DSFTandlemuir2 IPG
F&CC, Harestanes2 SPM Locherwood Comm Wd 1 ECD Tetrad NS36M (part)5 IPG
F&CC, Kelvin1 SPM Lochwinnoch, Aird Mw 9 JL

Breeding summary: 113 pairs at 59 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) wide-spread and presumably breeding widely Renfrewshire/Inverclyde countryside, especially at or around farm steadings; also fairly common in suburban and greenspace habitats, but under-recorded (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 40 Hairmyres Hospital 22 Aug (NWh), 182 Craigmarloch 27 Aug (DSF), 30 Ardmore Point 30 Aug (LMcB), 110 (mostly juvs) Merryton 31 Aug, 91 on 20 Sep, 54 on 26 Sep (AIE), 27 Walls Hill 2 Sep (IPG), 80 Gleniffer Braes at Hollows Ave, Foxbar 3‑5 Sep (GTW), 40 Heathfield Farm 8 Sep (CMRS), 45 Caplaw Dam 8 Sep (IPG), 50 Craigend Farm 8 Sep (DK), 60 West Millichen Farm 11 Sep (CRS), 60 by B786 at Mid Barnaigh 14 Sep (IPG), 35 at Quarrier's Village on 14 Sep (RCD), 50 Linn Park 16 Sep (SAW), 40 at Aird Meadow on 19 Sep (MA), 20 Greenside 19 Sep (IPG), 50 at Ryat Linn Resr 17 Oct (JSW,VW), a ♂ in song Helensburgh 7 Dec, and a ♂ in song Kelvingrove Park 10 Dec (DHMcE). Up to 100 individuals (including recaptures) were trapped and ringed in a Killearn garden throughout 2008 (RAB).

The ten largest flocks reported in autumn-winter averaged 73 birds (cf. mean 55 birds 1987-2008), suggesting that 2008 was yet another highly productive breeding season (ed.).

 

Siskin Spinus spinus

Winter-spring reports included 25 Lennox Park, Milngavie 6 Jan (AKMcN), 30 in an Ormonde Drive, Netherlee garden 7 Jan (SAW), 10 in garden Kenmure View, Howwood 8 Jan (IPG), 201 “over the Roman Fort,” Strathclyde Country Park in 2 hours on 8 Jan (IL), 20 Strathclyde Country Park 9 Jan (ECD), 40 Bishop Loch 9 Jan (CRS), 20 feeding on ground under cedar trees at Cedar Hall, Ardgowan Street, Greenock 10 Jan (SPM), 23 Linwood Moss 23 Jan (DSF), 45 at Balmaha 15 Jan (AKMcN), 12 Victoria Park, Glasgow 26 Jan (CJMcI), 30 in Hollows Ave, Foxbar garden 5 Feb (GTW), a ♂ in song Barscube Hill 18 Feb (DSF), 45 in a Muirlees Cres, Milngavie garden 26 Feb, 30 on 12 Mar (SJL), 100 at feeders in a Killearn garden 3 Mar (RAB), 20 Garscube Estate 11 Mar (TB), 13 Endrickvale 31 Mar (DAB), 36 Drymen 11 Apr (LWi), 24 Carron Valley Forest 13 Apr (AKMcN), and 40 at Kilpatrick Braes on 14 Apr (SPM).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site Prs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Brownside Braes 1TBLochwinnoch, Aird Meadow 3RSPB Myres Hill 4 JVW
Carron Valley Forest2AKMcN Monkshead 1IPGPowbrone Burn 1 JVW
Corse Hill1JVW Muirshiel Country Park 1IPG

Summary: 14 pairs at 8 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) pair with newly-fledged b/4 Monkshead 18 July (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 40 incl juvs Linwood Moss 22 July (DSF), 25 Mugdock Country Park 9 Sep (AKMcN), 30 Linn Park 13 Sep (SAW), 30 Barscube Hill 6 Oct (DSF), 30 Carron Valley Forest 3 Nov (AKMcN), 40 Renfrew Golf Course 13 Nov, 35 on 21 Nov, 18 in a Marjory Rd, Renfrew garden 4 Dec (ECD), and 30 in a Myrtle Ave, Lenzie garden on 13 Dec (ADW).

 

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis

Winter-spring reports involved one on shore at NW corner of Ardmore Point on 12 Jan and 16 Feb (JDo), one feeding on forestry road at Lochgoin Resr on 10 Feb (JFD), and a ♂ on top of Ben Lomond 23-28 Apr (per JTT and RSPB).

Autumn-winter reports were of 1 on track at Lyles Hill, Muirshiel Country Park on 25 Nov (KMcG).

 

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella

Winter-spring reports included 2 in garden middle of Howwood village 19 Jan (MB), a ♂ in a garden nearby in Howwood on 6-8 Mar and 18 Mar (IPG), 9 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 19 Jan (DAB), 20 Old Mains (NS4968) 26 Jan (ECD), 50 Cathkin Braes 27 Jan (SAW), 40 at Blackstoun Farm (in unharvested barley field beside Blackstone Mains Cottage) on 27 Jan, 20 on 28 Jan, 10 on 5 Feb, 50 on 24 Feb (GTW), 19 at feeding station West Millichen Farm 9 Mar (AKMcN), and 12 at Fannyside Mill on 23 Mar (MMcG).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

SitePrs ObsSite Prs Obs Site Prs Obs
Auchendores Resr (SE side) 3 IPG Corsliehill-Wellees11IPGKilbarchan, Auchenames 2 - SPM
Bargarran6 MMcG F&CC, Glasgow Bridge 1 SPM Kilbarchan, Waterstone Fm 1 IPG
Blackstoun Farm 1 GTW Glasgow, Millichen Farms12SL Lochwinnoch, Balgreen 1 IPG
Br of Weir, Botherickfield 2 IPG Houston, Turningshaw Fm 4 IPGLow-Nether Barfod 3 IPG
Br of Weir, Corsliehill Fm 1 IPG Houston, Waterlea Farm 1 IPGNetherton of Glenboig Farm 1 DAB
Br of Weir, West Yonderton1 IPG Howwood, Drygate 1 IPGPaisley, Arkleston Farms 5 SPM
Br of Weir, Wraes Farm1 IPG Jackton 1 MMacL Walkinshaw Gardens2 GTW
Brookfield (NS407641)1 IPG Johnstone, Barbush Farm 2 IPGSwanieston (NS408685)1 IPG
Chapel Farm (NS4068) 3 IPG Kenmure Hill1 SPM Whinny Hill (NS368703)1 IPG

Summary: 70 pairs at 27 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) breakdown of 11 singing ♂♂ near Houston (Corsliehill-Wellees) on 3 June by one-km squares: 2 in NS4069, 5 in NS4068, 4 in NS4067 (IPG); (ii) the Lochwinnoch, Balgreen population declined from 3 prs 2005-2007 (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 14 Shilton Lane, Erskine 7 June (ACMB), 9 Barscube Hill 18 Sep (DSF), 20 Cardross 5 Dec (JBB), 9 ♂♂ Balmuildy Bridge 8 Dec (CRS), 30 Windlaw Farm 17 Dec (CRS), 42 on 24 Dec (SAW).

 

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus

Winter-spring reports included a ♂ coming to seed in garden Kenmure View, Howwood 6-14 Jan, 2 ♂♂ and a ♀ 15-16 Jan, 6 ♂♂ on 17 Jan, 3 ♂♂ and 1 ♀ 3-8 Mar, 7 (3 ad ♂♂, 1st-w ♂ and 2 ♀♀) on 11 Mar, 9 (6 ad ♂♂, two 1st-w ♂♂ and a ♀) on 17 Mar, 10 (7 ad ♂♂) on 19 Mar (IPG), 60 at Blackstoun Farm (in unharvested barley field beside Blackstone Mains Cottage) on 10 Jan, max 100 there (one caught by Sparrowhawk) on 17 Jan, 20 on 27 Jan, 10 on 28 Jan, 20 on 5 Feb, 50 on 24 Feb (GTW), 23 West Millichen Farm 12 Jan (CRS), 39 Kilmacolm 19 Jan, 29 on 17 Feb (DSF), 22 Mugdock Country Park 26 Jan (GJC), 26 Netherton of Glenboig Farm 10 Feb (DAB), a solitary ♀ on rush pasture Hartfield Moss 28 Feb (IPG), and 11 at River Gryfe near Houston on 1 Mar (DSF).

Breeding reports (prs = territorial pairs or singing ♂♂)

Site PrsObsSite PrsObsSite PrsObs
Aber 1 AKM Douglas Water Pool 1 KSLochwinnoch Reserve 43 RSPB
Allander/Kelvin 1 AKM Drumgrain Moss 1 JVWLogan Reservoir 1 RJH
Auchensale Marsh1 IPG Duneaton Water 1 RJH Merryton/Carbarns 9 AIE
Balgray Reservoir 6 SAW Dunside Reservoir 1 RJH Mid Netherton/Pedmyre 2 SL
Barnaigh (NS3562) 1 IPG Dykebar 1 TBMillersneuk Marsh 19 ADW
Biggar Moss 1 JVWEast Ferry 2 DSF Muirhead Burn (NS4058) 3 IPG
Bishop Loch 2 CRS Endrick Mouth 1 AKM Muirhouse Sand Quarry 1 AKM
Black Cart Water1 ECDErskine Hotel 1 SPM Netherhall (NS8657) 2 IPG
Blackthird Farm 1 FL Gallangad Muir 1 AKM Netherton of Glenboig 1 DAB
Bowling Terminal 1 JVWGarshangan (NS289711) 1 IPG Newshot Island 3 ECD
Broadfield (NS3958) 2 IPG Glasgow, Millichen Farms 3 SL Picketlaw Reservoir1 MMacL
Caplaw Dam 2 IPG Glasgow, Windlaw Farm 4 SL Pilmuir Dam 1 JVW
Cardowan Bing1 CRS Glenbuck Loch 1 RJH Reivoch Marsh5 IPG
Chapel Farm Pool 1 IPG Harelaw Resr, Greenock 3 DSF Robroyston Park LNR 3 IPG
Cornalees Bridge1 MMcG Helensburgh Reservoirs1 ANi Rowbank Marsh 6 IPG
Craigmarloch 6 IPG Hogganfield Marsh1 CRS SCP, North Haugh7 IL
Crook Burn 2 RJH Lamington 3 JVWTophouse (NS405565)1 IPG
Culter Waterhead 1 JVWLinwood Moss 4 DSF Town of Inchinnan-Barnsford Br6 GTW
Darleith Marsh 1 FL Linwood Pool4 GTW Treesbank 4 SD
Darnley Glen 1 JVWLittleton Reservoir2 JVWWalls Hill (around)4 IPG
Douglas Estate 5 KSLoch Ardinning2 ECD

Breeding summary: 200 pairs at 62 sites reported in 2008. Supplementary notes: (i) unusually, a singing ♂ in part-felled plantation at Hardridge Cottage (165m above sea level) on 7 June (IPG); (ii) a singing ♂ at Garshangan on 2 July was 195m asl (IPG).

Autumn-winter reports included 40 on the Black Cart Water SPA on 16 Oct (GTW), and 50 at Shilton Lane, Erskine on 31 Dec (ACMB).

 

Escapes

Black Swan Cygnus atratus One at Renfrew Ferry 24 March (GM), presumably the same bird in Richmond Park, Glasgow on 27 March (CPa),1 Strathclyde Loch 30 July (JBB), at West Ferry on 2 Sep (IPG), Cardross Bay 5-9 Sep (FL,ANi,GJB et al), Cardwell Bay 14-15 Sep (IPG,FG).

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Three at Midross 8 Dec (ANi).

Harris's Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus One (with bells) at Blackstoun Farm/Middleton Farm, Paisley-Linwood from 10 December 2007 until at least 31 May (JG,GTW); on 18 May and 31 May it appeared to be paired with a Buzzard, with a nest in a tree at Middleton Farm (GTW); presumed same bird seen back at Paisley town centre 11 July (BT).

Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula krameri One at the Glebe car park, Bearsden Cross 17 January (FMo), possibly the same bird in Crosbie Street, Maryhill Park on 28 February (TPD), one at Renfrew Golf Course on 14 March (ECD,FH), and one feeding on apples in Crosbie Street, Maryhill on 7 Dec (per TPD).

 
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