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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION TO THE FOURTH REPORT OF

THE MOOR GREEN LAKES GROUP

This fourth report of the Moor Green Lakes Group covers the period from January to December 1996 for wildlife observations and the period from May 1996 to May 1997 for reserve management activities. A profile of the Reserve is provided at Appendix A and a map at Appendix F.

While overall management of the reserve is under the control of a Steering Group (for details see Appendix A) practical day to day management and the collection, recording, assessment and dissemination of information about the reserve is undertaken by the Moor Green Lakes Group, which now has a membership of about 150. The Group’s Committee Members are listed in Appendix E.

The reserve management Year from 1996 to 1997 has seen further steady progress in pursuit of the Group’s three primary aims, improving the reserve for wildlife, recording and monitoring that wildlife and enhancing the facilities of the reserve for members of the Group and other visitors. In this last category the viewing point alongside the Colebrook Lake hide, which overlooks the wader scrape, has been improved. Additionally, plans have been made for the erection of a second hide, to be provided by Hall Aggregates (South East) Ltd, at the eastern end of Grove Lake. Formal opening of that hide will be in September 1997 (access will be shortest from the Rambler’s Car Park at the entrance to the Horseshoe Lake Water Sports Centre off Mill Lane). The Grove Lake hide has not been modified for wheelchair use and it will not be open to the public except when in use by members of the Moor Green Lakes Group. Access for Members will be on the same basis as for the Colebrook Lake hide.

A considerable amount of conservation management work was again undertaken by volunteers between the 1996 and the 1997 breeding seasons (see Chapter 2 for details) and the Group would like to thank all those members of the Moor Green Lakes Group, of the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service and of the Farnborough College of Technology who took an active part in this work. We would still like to have more members join our site work parties, even if only an hour can be spared. With a reserve of this size there is a great deal to be done and without this voluntary help there would be a rapid decline in the diversity of wildlife on the reserve.

I would also like to take this opportunity of expressing our thanks to Steve Bailey and to Nick Mutch for the considerable amount of time and effort they have devoted to the running of the reserve over the past year. Steve organises the work parties which means an earlier start and a later finish for him on the day, particularly as he arranges for the necessary tools and equipment, including on appropriate occasions a boat to get to and from the islands. During the past year the interior of the hide has been physically damaged from time to time by vandals and on a number of occasions they have left it in a dirty condition. Nick Mutch has spent a great deal of time undertaking repairs and cleaning up after these incidents and he has been instrumental in keeping the hide open and available for use.

The Group’s wildlife recorders have again been active, Ian Brown for birds, Delphine Hoyle for plants, Nick Mutch for Mammals, Phil Young for dragonflies and Chris Taylor for butterflies. Their individual reports appear in later Chapters together with, and for the first time, a chapter dealing with invertebrates other than dragonflies compiled by Steve Bailey. As the list of plant species has not changed significantly since it appeared as Appendix C in the 1995-96 Report it has not been repeated and reference should be made to that Report for details.

The number of bird species observed on or near the reserve continues to rise and a large number of bird records continue to be received. Ian Brown’s account of the birds seen during 1996 forms a major part of this Annual Report and our thanks are due to Ian for the time and trouble he has taken to produce such a comprehensive account.

A number of volunteer helpers have assisted with surveys and use has been made by Ian Brown and Chris Taylor of the bird and butterfly records left by members and others who visited the hide where record sheets for this purpose are placed. This help is greatly appreciated as it is important that we monitor as closely as possible any changes which take place as the reserve matures. They are a test of the effectiveness of our conservation work. If you can add additional records or have data for other wildlife groups (e.g. insects which as you will see later are woefully under-recorded), please contact the appropriate recorder/committee member indicated in Appendix E.

The 1997 Annual General Meeting of the Group, kindly hosted by Hall Aggregates Ltd, was held at Finchampstead Memorial Hall on 28th February. During the meeting members were given a progress report on reserve activities and wildlife monitoring and advised about the proposals to extract gravel from the fields immediately to the west of the reserve (the “Manor Farm” site). The meeting was followed by an illustrated talk by Kevin Briggs about his ornithological field work during the breeding season at a site in Lancashire, with particular reference to its Goosander population.

For further information about the Group and its activities the contact is either Mark Taylor, telephone 01252-521899 or the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service (BVRCMS), Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS, telephone: 01252-331353. If any member notices something happening at the reserve which might result in damage or threaten wildlife, would they please inform the BVRCMS, telephone: 01 252-331353, or Nick Mutch, telephone 01344-771400.

Peter Standley

Chairman Moor Green Lakes Group

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CHAPTER 2

CONSERVATION WORK PROGRAMME - JUNE 1996 TO MAY 1997

 By Steve Bailey

Eleven volunteer tasks were organised during the year attended by 118 people, a marked and pleasant increase upon last year. In addition students from Farnborough College carried out some practical site management tasks. Contractors employed by Hall Aggregates carried out a number of the more intensive jobs under the direction of the Site Manager. 

Improving the Reserve for Wildlife

Grazing

Much work was carried out on fencing . The existing fence around the reserve (all 1.8 km) was strengthened buy the addition of a top wire of barbed wire. A wooden field gate was placed between Grove and Colebrook Lakes to aid access around the reserve. A new post and rail fence was built to control cattle access around the hide and adjacent scrape. Unfortunately due to the death of our grazier, after which his cattle were sold, we were only able to have cattle around Grove Lake.

Islands

All the islands on Colebrook Lake were worked on this year. Long Island had many trees removed, patches of bramble were reduced and a large section of its North shore had the grass cut short to attract grazing ducks (this specifically for the Wigeon flock). Snipe Island on which a Swan regularly nests was little touched but all the other islands were cleared of vegetation to leave bare gravel to encourage ground nesting birds. The wire strands around Tern Island were extended to increase the deterrent to Canada Geese, which can trample nests of other species.

Rafts

The three existing rafts were cleaned and restocked with fresh gravel. Two new rafts were built and launched, one placed in Grove Lake and one in Colebrook North. Both new rafts are bigger than the existing ones and were surfaced with gravel.

Hedgelaying

A short section of hedgerow alongside the track to the west of Colebrook South was laid. This is the traditional technique for managing hedgerows, and encourages a strong bushy growth low in the hedge so preventing the leggy and gappy growth of hedges that are mechanically trimmed over long

periods. -

Tree clearance

Contractors employed by Hall Aggregates carried out tree clearance on the edges of the lakes. The use of machinery enabled more work to be carried out in a quicker time so reducing disturbance. Trees around the edges of the Lakes were selectively cleared to keep an open aspect to the waters edge.

Trees cut were used to construct a dead hedge alongside the screening barrier to the scrape by the hide. The dead hedge improves the visual appearance of the screen. It also enables the retention of the dead wood on site which is itself a useful habitat.

Other tree felling included the removal of the taller trees within the thickly planted tree belts around the lakes. This is carried out to prevent these tree belts becoming so tall as to affect use of the lakes by wildfowl.

Tree planting

Trees were planted in the young hedge on the approach path to the hide. This thickened the hedge and replaced losses of previous plantings. Stakes and guards were placed around all young trees.

Improving the Reserve for People

Hide

The hide has required continued maintenance and cleaning after repeated bouts of vandalism. An open viewing screen was built next to the hide for the use of visitors who cannot gain access to the locked hide.

Wader Scrapes

The wader scrapes had their banks lowered to give better views into the scrapes and the birds feeding there.

View points

A major operation this year has been the cutting of many viewing points in the tree screens around the lakes.

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CHAPTER 3

REPORT ON BIRDS 1996

Recorder: Ian Brown

The year opened with plenty of interesting records including good numbers of wintering wildfowl. Continuing the trend of recent years and in part due to site management, record counts of Wigeon (256 in January), Shoveler (48 in March) and Goosander (up to 124 roosting on the site in January) were made. In addition, a redhead Smew again wintered on the site prompting hopes that this species may become a regular wintering species. Other early year records included a Peregrine (Jan), two sightings of Merlin constituting the first records for the site, a Glaucous Gull, 5 Waxwings which proved very elusive and were again a site first and the last sightings of the ever popular Hoopoe (from 1995), all in February.

Early spring started with a Black Necked Grebe (another site first) which was to remain for a month. Other spring records included Rock Pipit, Grasshopper Warbler, Mediterranean Gull, Sanderling (2 records), Greenshank (very good numbers), Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, Whimbrel, Osprey and a Red Kite (site first).

Breeding success amongst the waders was unfortunately poor with Redshank, Ringed Plover and Lapwing again failing, due chiefly to predation. Tufted Ducks also fared badly having their worst success for many years in sharp contrast to last year! On a brighter note Sand Martin, Whitethroat and Garden Warblers showed a marked increase, Barn Owl was again successful, Mandarins used specially erected nestboxes and Common Terns raised young from nests on the specially built rafts. In addition, Teal and Woodlark (which have not bred previously) may have attempted to breed. One surprise summer sight was that of up to 2 Goosanders, one of which lingered until late June.

Autumn produced several good records, the highlight of which was undoubtedly the unprecedented influx of Little Stints coinciding with a large influx into Britain. Cumulative records involved up to 17 individuals during September. Other records included a Grey Plover in July, a Wryneck in August which was a surprise find and a few Ruff throughout the period.

The late winter period started with a Firecrest in mid November, an early Smew in late November for a few a days, before two were seen from late December into 1997. Eight Bewick’s Swans put in a very brief appearance in early December but the highlight of the period was a Bean Goose which took up residence for a week on the arable land adjacent to the main footpath and was another first for the site!

(See Appendix B for an annotated check list of birds recorded in 1996)

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CHAPTER 4

REPORT ON PLANTS 1996

 Recorder: Dr. Delphine Hoyle

The surveys carried out on the western side of the reserve (i.e. the surrounds of the two Colebrook Lakes) in 1994 and 1995 did not indicate any great change in species from those found in previous years so no survey was undertaken in 1996.

It was noted, however, that Crassula helmsii - a species that was introduced from Australia and New Zealand - and is difficult to control, continues to extend its range around the lake margins.

It is proposed to survey the species changes on a quantitative basis in 1997

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CHAPTER 5

REPORT ON MAMMALS FOR 1996

Recorder: Nick Mutch

The reserve’s mixture of meadow, scrub and hedgerows, supported by the surrounding paddocks and arable land, attracts a variety of mammals - some of which (e.g. Roe Deer) are clearly increasing in number. Up to 10 Roe were observed in one evening, and a doe with two fawns were present in June. The other large mammal frequently observed in the fox, though numbers appear to be small.

Among small mammals there continues to be an active rodent population, particularly in the hawthorn scrub, and well vegetated margins. This year we have had the help of a student carrying out a trapping programme as part of her studies. Her results indicate a healthy population of Bank Vole, Field Vole, Wood Mouse, Common Shrew and Pigmy Shrew.

The reserve’s insect population is visibly abundant and continues to attract four bat species. Sightings and destructive evidence again indicates the regular presence of American Mink.

The number of species of mammals recorded on the reserve remains at 22. The full list is as follows:

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CHAPTER 6

REPORT ON DRAGONFLIES AND DAMSELFLIES FOR 1996

As there was only limited observation of the dragonflies and damselflies on the reserve in 1996 this report takes the form of a checklist of all species recorded on or adjacent to the reserve up to and including 1996. In each case the status of the species is shown in the form x/x/x, with x indicating the level of the numbers of adults/copulating pairs/ovipositing females observed on a scale from A (a single individual) to F (500+) as explained in the notes and guidelines on dragonfly recording which can be found in Appendix D.

All records of odonata observed on or near the reserve are needed and would be welcomed and should be sent to Ken Crick, 29 Village Way, Yateley Hants GUI7 7SE. If sightings of rare or unusual species can be telephoned to Ken on 01252-872508 this would enable dissemination of the information to other interested observers.

Phil Young, Dragonfly Recorder up to and including 1976 has unfortunately had to relinquish the post due to other pressures on his time. The Group is most grateful to him for all his work as Recorder and is grateful to Ken Crick for agreeing to take over from Phil from 1997.

ODONATA CHECKLIST

RED-EYED DAMSELFLY Erythromma najas

Recorded from Colebrook Lakes North and South. Maximum recorded counts of dults/copulating pairs/ovipositing females were E/D/D in 1994 and B/A/A in 1995.

AZURE DAMSELFLY Coenagrion puella

Adults recorded from Colebrook Lakes North and South and along the River Blackwater. This species probably breeds throughout the recording area but in smaller numbers than the Common Blue Damselfly. Reported as El-I- in 1994 and (+/+/-) in 1995.

COMMON BLUE DAMSELFLY Enallagma cyathigerum

Abundant throughout the recording area as a breeding species. F/D/E in 1994 and (E/+/-) in 1995.

LARGE RED DAMSELFLY Pyrrhosoma nymphula

Adults recorded in small numbers from Colebrook Lake North and South in 1994 and from Colebrook

Cut in 1995. B/-/- in both 1994 and 1995.

BLUE-TAILED DAMSELFLY lschnura elegans

Recorded in large numbers throughout the reserve. E/C/- in 1994 and E/-/- in 1995.

EMERALD DAMSELFLY Lestes sponsa

Reported As abundant in 1991-92 at Horseshoe Lake but only recorded as single individuals from

Grove Lake and Colebrook Lake South in 1994 (A/-/-) and from Colebrook Lake North in 1995 (A/-/-).

BANDED DEMOISELLE Calopteryx splendens

Large numbers were recorded along the River Blackwater. Smaller numbers were recorded from Colebrook Lakes North and South and also from Grove Lake. E/-/- in both 1994 and 1995.

SOUTHERN HAWKER Aeshna cyanea

Scarce. Records of single adult specimens at Colebrook Lake South and North in 1994 but not recorded on the reserve in 1995.

BROWN HAWKER Aeshna erandis

Reported as abundant at Horseshoe Lake in 1991-92 but only individual adults observed throughout the reserve in 1994 (B/-/A) and 1995 (A/-/-)

COMMON HAWKER Aeshna juncea

Reported as present on the reserve in the period 1990 to 1993 but not recorded in 1994 and 1995.

MIGRANT HAWKER Aeshna mixta

Reported as abundant at Horseshoe Lake in 1991-92. Adults observed on the reserve in small numbers in 1994 (C/A/-) but in good numbers in 1995 (D/A/A).

EMPEROR DRAGONFLY Anas imperator

Individual adult specimens were observed at Colebrook Lake North and South in 1994 and at

Colebrook Lake North in 1995 (B/-/-) both years). The only evidence of breeding was obtained in

1993.

GOLDEN-RINGED DRAGONFLY Cordulegaster boltonii

A single vagrant male was observed in Colebrook Cut in July 1995 (A/-/-) and there is an earlier report for the period 1990 to 1993 but without specific details.

DOWNY EMERALD Cordulia Aenea

Reported as present on the reserve during the period 1990 to 1993.

BLACK-TAILED SKIMMER Orthetrum cancellatum

Large numbers occur throughout the reserve with highest concentrations along the north shores of Colebrook Lake North, Grove Lake and Horseshoe Lake. Assessed as E/B/B in 1994 and D/B/B in 1995.

KEELED SKIMMER Orthetrum coerulescens

Present outside but near the reserve at the Eversley Quarry in 1993.]

BROAD-BODIED CHASER Libellula depressa

Reported as present in 1986 on Grove Lake but not recorded since.

FOUR-SPOTTED CHASER Libellula quadrimaculata

A single vagrant female with a damaged right hind wing was observed on herbage in the NE corner of Colebrook Lake North in 1994 (the species is normally an inhabitant of boggy pools)

BLACK DARTER Sympetrum danae

Reported as present at Horseshoe Lake in 1991 to 1992.

YELLOW-WINGED DARTER Sympetrum flaveolum

4 single individual of this continental vagrant was observed on the reserve in 1995.

RUDDY DARTER Sympetrum sanguineum

Observed in reasonable numbers from the W shore of Colebrook Lake North in 1994 with an estimated population of C/B/B. Not reported in 1995.

COMMON DARTER Sympetrum striolatum

Observed in good numbers from the west shore of Colebrook Lake North and from along the River Blackwater, estimated at D/C/C in both 1994 and 1995.

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CHAPTER 7

REPORT ON MOTHS

The following 62 different species have been recorded on the reserve. Any persons visiting the site who wish to submit records of night or day flying moths are encouraged to do so. The contact for records is: Steve Bailey, Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS

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CHAPTER 8

REPORT ON BUTTERFLIES FOR 1996

Recorder: Chris Taylor

The recording of butterfly sightings on the reserve in 1996 continued in much the same vein as in 1995, with similar numbers of both species and observers contributing to the years records. The recorder is again grateful to all these contributors. A further, but less auspicious, similarity between 1995 and 1996 is that vandalism in the hide again resulted in the loss of some records. However, a number of observers used their ingenuity to ensure that the recorder became aware of the details of these lost records, with the result that the year’s overall picture is much fuller than it otherwise might have been.

Compared with 1995 the species list shows the absence of sightings of Green Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Wall Brown, Grayling and Small Blue. However, none of these had been observed in any abundance in 1995. In contrast the records for 1996 show three species that were not observed the previous year: Clouded Yellow, Painted Lady and Marbled White. The Clouded Yellow sightings related to two days in June - relatively early for this species - and one in August. The Marbled White was observed on a single day in mid-July. There were many sightings of Painted Lady over a period of 5 months, these reflecting a very good year for this species in the locality as a whole.

The continuing absence of sightings of Holly Blue is again disappointing. However, 1997 may well prove to be different, as at the time of writing we seem to be in the midst of a Holly Blue year.

The list of species observed on the reserve in 1996 is as follows:

The following observers contributed to these records:

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CHAPTER 9

REPORT ON INVERTEBRATES OTHER THAN

LEPIDOPTERA & ODONATA

Recorder: Steve Bailey

Records for invertebrates other than Lepidoptera and Odonata are very few for the reserve. In total just 10 species have been recorded up to 1996. A BBONT survey prior to 1993 provided records of 6 Orthopteran species (grasshoppers or allies).

This area of the reserves wildlife deserves fuller study. The aquatic invertebrates or the mining bee colony on the exposed banks of Colebrook Lake North are both worthy projects.

To enable a fuller picture of the reserves invertebrates all records are required.

Roesel’s Bush Cricket (Metrioptera roeselli)

This was a rare species until recently but it has undergone a rapid extension to its range in the 1990’s. It is now one of the commonest Orthopteran species in the Blackwater Valley. Its high pitched singing is a regular feature of hot summer days in many areas of long grass.

Bog Bush Cricket (Metrioptera brachyptera)

A rare species usually found in the boggier areas of heathlands, or heathy woodlands, occasionally  recorded from drier situations. Colonies exist in the heathlands around Moor Green, so this could be a record of a vagrant individual. This record requires confirmation.

Short-winged Conehead (Conocephalalus dorsalis)

A small bush cricket usually confined to marshy vegetation such as coastal marshes, the damper parts of river flood plains or pond lake margins. Restricted in distribution to Southern Britain.

A photograph of a Conehead with long wings was taken on the reserve c.1993 that may have been the Long-winged Conehead (C. discolor). C. dorsal/s despite its name can have a macropterous (long winged) form so identification of this individual could not be given to species.

C. discolor was until recently confined to a very few South coast localities but like Roesel’s Bush Cricket has undergone rapid expansion of range in the last two decades. C. discolor can tolerate a wider range of habitat, being able to use drier places and coarser vegetation than C. dorsalis. Both Conehead species are reliably recorded from other sites in the Blackwater Valley, either or both species are possible at Moor Green.

Common Field Grasshopper (Chorthippus brunneus)

A common grasshopper found in a wide range of dry and sunny grasslands throughout Britain.

Meadow Grasshopper (Chorthippus parrallelus)

A common grasshopper found in a wide range of grassy habitats throughout Britain though often in

damper places than the Common Field Grasshopper.

Lesser Marsh Grasshopper (Chorthippus albomarginatus)

A medium sized grasshopper locally common in South East Britain. Usually found in moist habitats such as river flood plains and water meadows. Widespread along the River Blackwater in suitable habitat, though few Berkshire records.

St Marks Fly (Bibio marci)

A common black fly that swarms in the lee of trees and bushes in spring. Recorded along the footpath from the car park in the shelter of the hawthorn hedge.

Marble Gall (Andricus kollari)

A common marble gall of oak. Parthenogenic females emerge September/ October and over winter as adults, eggs are laid in oak buds in spring. A sexual generation will only develop if eggs are laid on Turkey Oak (Quercus cerris).

Cobweb spider (Tegenaria sp.)

One of the ‘House’ spiders. Tegenaria species regularly use sheds and out buildings as well as houses. Recorded from inside the Colebrook hide.

Green Lacewing (Chrysopa Carnea)

A common Lacewing species found in a range of habitats. About 30 recorded in November 1996 hibernating behind the Dragonfly poster in the Colebrook hide.

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CHAPTER 10

OTHER WILDLIFE GROUPS

The reserve list for amphibians and reptiles remains at three:

All have been observed on the reserve but only in small numbers. Lizard and Slow Worm are also likely to be present but have yet to be observed. Volunteers to spend some time surveying the reserve for this wildlife group would be welcome.

A systematic survey of the lakes on the reserve has still to be undertaken to establish which species of freshwater fish are present but incidental sightings, either during conservation work or while observing fish-eating birds, has produced records of the following:

Other wildlife groups are present on the reserve but have not yet been surveyed, principally because no one familiar with those groups has volunteered to visit the reserve for this purpose.

If you have a knowledge of one of the following groups and some time for a small survey we would be pleased to hear from you:

The contact is Steve Bailey at the Blackwater Valley recreation and Countryside Management Service, telephone: 01252-331353.

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APPENDIX A

PROFILE OF THE RESERVE

The Moor Green Lakes Nature Reserve lies partly within the area administered by Wokingham District Council and partly within the Borough of Bracknell Forest. The River Blackwater, which forms the boundary between the counties of Berkshire and Hampshire runs close to the southern boundary of the reserve. To the north is Finchampstead Ridges, an area administered by the National Trust. A map of the reserve appears at Appendix F.

The reserve covers an area of approximately 36 hectares (90 acres), the majority of which lies within the flood plain of the River Blackwater. It contains three lakes formed out of flooded gravel pits which are bordered by areas of grassland, planted coppice and wildflower meadow. Two of the lakes, Colebrook Lake North and Colebrook Lake South, are separated by an elongated island through the centre of which runs the old water course of the Colebrook Cut. The third lake, Grove Lake, lies immediately to the east separated by a narrow strip of land. Within the lakes are several gravel-capped islands and gravel beaches.

An important feature of the reserve is the presence of sluices, at the exit of the Colebrook Cut and from Colebrook Lake into the River Blackwater, which allow the level of the water in Colebrook Lakes North and South to be controlled within limits so that muddy margins can be exposed ahead of the main spring and autumn passage of wading birds.

Overall management of the reserve is under the control of a Steering Group comprised of representatives of Hall Aggregates (South East) Ltd, Berkshire County Council (the planning authority), Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service and the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Naturalists’ Trust. Practical day to day management and the collection, recording, assessment and dissemination of information about the reserve is undertaken by the Moor Green Lakes Group established in 1993. The Group’s Committee Members are listed in Appendix E. The necessary costs of the Group not covered by membership subscriptions are met by Hall Aggregates (South East) Ltd. Membership is open to all with an interest in the reserve, its wildlife and its management,

Public access to the reserve is restricted to the viewing hides provided by Hall Aggregates (South East) Ltd which overlook respectively Colebrook Lake North and Grove Lake (see map at Appendix F). Unfortunately vandalism has meant that the hides cannot be left permanently open but every effort is made to open the Colebrook Lake hide each Sunday from about 9am to 4pm and members of the public can use the hides whenever they are in use by members of the Group (who have access at any time). The Colebrook Lake hide incorporates a viewing window for observers in wheelchairs. When the hides are locked, views over the scrapes adjacent to the hides can be obtained from the screened viewing points alongside the hides. Views across the reserve can also be obtained from points along the footpath which runs along the western and southern sides of the reserve.

The main access to the reserve is from Lower Sandhurst Road where a car park has been provided (Ordnance Survey grid reference SU805628). The shortest access to the Grove Lake hide is from the Rambler’s Car Park at the entrance to the Horseshoe Lake Water Sports Centre off Mill Lane (grid reference SU820620)

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APPENDIX B

1996 ANNOTATED LIST OF BIRD SPECIES

THIS LIST COVERS EVERSLEY GRAVEL PITS

(INC MOOR GREEN LAKES RESERVE)

By Ian Brown

LITTLE GREBE Resident and winter visitor, but declining. One pair possibly attempted to breed. The poorest breeding season since records began.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Common resident. A maximum 16 was recorded on March 17th. A total of five pairs were present during the summer, one pair successfully rearing 1 young.

BLACK NECKED GREBE A first winter bird present from March 3rd to April 2nd (DH et al) was the first record for the site.

CORMORANT Common winter visitor which occasionally oversummers. Numbers peaked at 49 on Dec.23rd (KBB), a record count for the site.

GREY HERON Common resident. Numbers peaked at 10 on Aug.1st.

MUTE SWAN Common resident and winter visitor. Two pairs reared a total of 7 young. The maximum count was 42 on Nov.13th.

BEWICK’S SWAN Eight circled for five minutes on Dec. 7th before leaving NE (NRP), only the second record for the site the last being in 1992.

TAIGA BEAN GOOSE One of the fabalis race present from Dec.14th to 21st (IHB et al) was the first record for the site. The bird (independent from other geese) frequented the arable land adjacent to the main footpath and roosted on Colebrook Lake North each evening. The bird arrived at a time when there was a large influx of Bean Geese into eastern England.

GREYLAG GOOSE Regular visitor. One to five birds were recorded on eight dates between March 17th and Sept.5th.

SNOW GOOSE Common resident, with birds from the nearby free flying flock regularly visiting the site. The maximum count was of 29 on many dates. Five pairs attempted to breed but were unsuccessful.

CANADA GOOSE Abundant resident. The maximum count was of 487 on Jan.18th.

BARNACLE GOOSE Common resident. The local feral population continues to increase. A maximum of 124 were recorded on many dates and in addition this flock contained 5 Barnacle x Canada hybrids. Four pairs attempted to breed unsuccessfully.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE Scarce visitor. A good year with 2 on Feb.15th, 1 on April 20th, 1 Aug.25th to 27th, 1 in to roost Sept. 1st and 1E on Dec 28th.

SHELDUCK Occasional visitor. The records were as follows; 2 on Feb.27th; 3 on March 23rd; 2 on April 24th, May 11th and 26th, 3 imm on Sept.15th to 17th, 1 remaining till 20th, 1 on Oct.5th and 3 on Dec.21st.

MANDARIN Summer visitor, irregular in winter. Two pairs were present from March till July, and breeding was considered probable. A further two males were present in spring. Other records of 1/2 birds were recorded in August, September and December.

WIGEON Common winter visitor. Numbers continue to increase with a site record of 256 on Jan.13th (JMC). Birds were recorded up to April 16th and from Sept.7th.

GADWALL Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. Numbers peaked at 80 on Dec.21st. As in previous years up to 4 pairs were present until late spring but there was no evidence of attempted breeding.

TEAL Common winter visitor which occasionally summers. Numbers continue to increase in winter with a new site record count of 84 on Jan.13th (IHB). One pair summered and breeding was considered possible.

MALLARD Common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 116 on Dec.27th.

PINTAIL Infrequent winter visitor. Three records as follows; a pair on March 31st (GCS), 1f flew W on Sept.21st (IHB) and 2m 1f on Dec.22nd (JMC).

SHOVELER Moderately common winter visitor. There were records in all months except July. Numbers built up in early spring peaking at 48 on March 16th (IHB), a new site record.

POCHARD Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. A maximum of 78 were present on Jan.18th.

TUFTED DUCK Abundant resident and winter visitor. Only one brood of 2 young were seen. The poorest breeding success for several years. Winter numbers peaked at 114 on Feb.15th.

GOLDENEYE Winter visitor. The records are summarised as follows; 3 imm Jan.1st to April 7th, with 2 remaining to April 14th and one till April 20th, 4 imm/f Jan.13th, 5 imm/f Feb.19th to March 24th, 1m Feb.17th to April 1st, 1f Nov.30th to years end with a second from Dec.7th, rising to 4 from Dec.25th.

SMEW Scarce winter visitor. A very good year with records as follows; 1f Jan.22nd to March 10th (NRP et al); 2m 2f on Feb.10th (JMC, PCM); 1f Nov.28th to Dec.1st (AH, CJ) and 2f Dec.29th to 1997 (MGM et al).

GOOSANDER Common winter visitor in increasing numbers. The site is now firmly established as an area of regional importance for this species. Birds from neighbouring waters continue to roost on the site, supplementing the numbers of the wintering flock. Exceptional numbers used the site with a record roost count of 124 (23 males) on Feb.22nd (JMC). Numbers again built up in the late year with 101 (32 males) roosting on Dec.28th. Birds had departed by April 15th, although exceptionally 2f were present till May 18th, with one remaining till June 20th. These birds were both fully winged and were present on most dates in the period. The first returns were on Nov.15th.

RUDDY DUCK Irregular visitor of annual occurrence. Recorded as follows; 1 imm on March 23rd; 1m on April 21st; 1f on Sept.21st; 1 first winter male Dec.14th to 21st and 1f / imm Dec.23rd to 25th.

RED KITE One was watched at close quarters on May 29th as it drifted SW (MAS). The first record for the site.

SPARROWHAWK Common resident which breeds nearby.

BUZZARD Uncommon visitor. A good year with three records; 1 WNW on March 13th, 1SSE on April 4th and 1 on Sept.8th.

OSPREY Rare visitor. One flew NW on May 19th (PJR). The fifth record for the site and the first since 1993.

KESTREL Common resident. One pair reared two young.

MERLIN Rare visitor. A female on Feb.1st (BM, RM) and an imm on Feb.17th (IHB) were the first records for the site.

HOBBY Moderately common summer visitor. One to three birds were recorded between May 16th and Oct.11th.

PEREGRINE A rare visitor. One on Jan.5th (GKT) was the only record.

PHEASANT Common resident.

WATER RAIL Winter visitor. Three to four birds were present until April 4th and from Nov.9th to the end of year.

Birds generally favoured the River Blackwater.

MOORHEN An abundant resident. A maximum of 23 were present on Nov.11th.

COOT An abundant resident. The maximum count was of 250 on Dec.27th.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between March 16th and Aug.11th. Five pairs reared a total of at least 2 young. A juvenile on Sept.27th was probably a migrant.

RINGED PLOVER Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between Feb.8th and Aug.12th. One on Aug.31st was almost certainly a passage migrant.

GOLDEN PLOVER An infrequent visitor. Three records; 1 on Jan.13th (IHB), 1W on Oct.5th (IHB) and 1 on ice with

Lapwings on Dec.27th (JMC).

GREY PLOVER Rare passage migrant. One winter plumage adult was seen briefly after rain on July 29th (MAS).

LAPWING Common resident and winter visitor. Nine pairs attempted to breed but with poor success due to predation. In winter the maximum count was of 540 on Jan.27th. Post breeding gatherings peaked at 450 on Sept.5th.

SANDERLING Scarce passage migrant. Two spring records of singletons in summer plumage on May 14th (DJB) and 19th (JNM et al).

LITTLE STINT Scarce passage migrant. A remarkable series of autumn records which coincided with a large influx into Britain. The records were as follows; an adult on Sept.21st (IHB et al); 6 juvs Sept.22nd to 23rd (JMC et al); 7 juvs (probably different birds from 23rd) on Sept.24th (WJS, MAS); 1 juv Sept.25th-27th, with two additional juvs on 27th, one of which remained to Sept.30th (IHB et al).

DUNLIN Regular passage migrant. A good year with at least 20 individuals recorded. In winter there were singletons on Jan.27th and Feb.3rd. Passage birds were noted March 16th to Sept.28th.

RUFF Irregular visitor. A good year with four records as follows; 1 on May 12th to 13th (EN, IHB); 1 on

Aug.22nd (IHB); 1 on Sept.3rd (IHB) and 1 Sept.22nd to 24th (NRP et al).

COMMON SNIPE Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Recorded until May 3rd and from July 21st. A maximum of 47 was present on March. 30th.

WHIMBREL Uncommon visitor. Two were present briefly on May 27th before departing NW (JNM).

CURLEW Regular visitor which may have wintered. One apparently overwintered in the area being seen on

many dates between Jan.6th and Feb.28th. Possibly the same returning bird was seen on Dec.22nd. The only other record was of 1 on April 20th.

REDSHANK Summer visitor and passage migrant. Three pairs attempted to breed. Despite two small young being seen in early July they did not appear to survive. Recorded between Feb.28th and July 10th. The last successful breeding was in 1992, with birds failing in each year since, most probably due to predation. Other records involved singletons on Jan.27th, Feb.3rd, Feb.8th, Aug.27th and Sept.7th.

GREENSHANK Regular passage migrant. A very good year with a minimum total of 8 birds in spring on ten dates between May 3rd and 19th. In autumn, there were singletons on Aug.1st, 7th, 31st and Sept.22nd.

GREEN SANDPIPER Winter visitor and common passage migrant. Recorded in January, March, April (till 21st), June (from 18th) to November. The maximum count was of 3 on many dates.

WOOD SANDPIPER A scarce passage migrant. One was present May 11th to 12th (JND et al).

COMMON SANDPIPER Common passage migrant. Recorded in spring between April 11th and May 22nd, with a maximum of 3 on many dates. In autumn recorded between June 25th and Oct.5th, with a maximum of 4 on many dates.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL Scarce visitor. A first year bird was watched briefly on April 20th before departing SE (IHB).

BLACK HEADED GULL Very common visitor. The maximum count was of 300 on Feb.22nd.

COMMON GULL Common winter visitor. Recorded till March 7th and from July 9th (an early date). 60 were present on Feb.10th.

LESSER BLACK BACKED GULL Very common visitor. A maximum of 500 were present on Sept.17th.

HERRING GULL Common winter visitor. A maximum of 121 were present on Feb.15th.

YELLOW LEGGED HERRING GULL Regular visitor of annual occurrence. Records were as follows; 1 sub adult July 31st to Aug.1st; 1 adult Aug.5th to 8th, up to 2 third-summers Aug.6th to 8th; 1 first-summer Aug.7th; 1 adult Sept.16th; 1 first-winter and 1 second-winter between Sept.17th and 25th; 1 adult Sept.27th; 1 second-winter Sept.28th and 1 adult Oct.29th.

GLAUCOUS GULL Rare visitor. One adult was present 13:30 to 15:30 on Feb. 11th (DN, MLE). The second site record.

GREAT BLACK BACKED GULL Frequent winter visitor. Recorded in Jan, Feb and Dec with a maximum count of 10 on Feb.22nd.

COMMON TERN Summer visitor and passage migrant. The first were on April 13th and the last were on Aug.28th. 6 pairs reared a total of 4 young.

STOCK DOVE Common resident. The maximum count was 85 on Dec.21st.

WOOD PIGEON Abundant resident.

COLLARED DOVE Common resident breeding nearby.

TURTLE DOVE Uncommon summer visitor. Two records, 1 on June 12th (JG) and 1 singing on July 13th (IHB).

CUCKOO Summer visitor. Recorded from April 16th to Aug.3lst (1 juv). Two singing males held territory.

BARN OWL Resident, One pair bred successfully.

LITTLE OWL Moderately common resident. Breeding was successful with birds present in 3/4 territories.

TAWNY OWL Moderately common resident. Breeding was successful with birds present in 2 territories.

SWIFT Numerous summer visitor. Recorded from April 28th to Aug.10th.

KINGFISHER Moderately common resident. Two pairs bred successfully along the River Blackwater.

HOOPOE Rare visitor. The bird from 1995 remained in the same area until Feb.25th. 

WRYNECK One was watched at close quarters to the N of Colebrook Lake North 0810 to 0825 am on Aug.31st (IHB), but could not be relocated later. The first record for the site.

GREEN WOODPECKER Common resident.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Common resident.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Uncommon resident. One pair possibly bred.

WOODLARK Irregular visitor. One pair were present from at least March 30th to April 17th and breeding was considered possible.

SKYLARK Common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 90 on Dec.31st.

SAND MARTIN Common summer visitor. Recorded between March 17th and Sept.29th. There were 40 nest holes on the new workings on the Hants side of the complex. Peak counts were of 200 on April 28th and May 13th.

SWALLOW Common summer visitor. Recorded between April 1st and Oct.6th, with a maximum count of 15O SW on Sept.11th.

HOUSE MARTIN Abundant summer visitor. Recorded between March 26th and Oct.6th, with a maximum count of 400 on May 19th and Sept.28th.

TREE PIPIT Uncommon passage migrant. Records were as follows; 1S Aug.12th; 1SE Aug.17th and 1 to 6, Aug.23rd to Sept.15th, probably related to a family group.

MEADOW PIPIT Common winter visitor and passage migrant. Selected records were 30 on Jan.13th; 60 roosting on Sept.22nd and 40W on Sept.28th.

ROCK PIPIT Scarce passage migrant. One on March 17th left E at 13:10 (GKT).

YELLOW WAGTAIL Moderately common passage migrant which has bred. Recorded in spring between April 12th and May 17th with a maximum of 6 on April 12th to 13th and in autumn 1 to 4 between Aug.20th and Sept.23rd.

GREY WAGTAIL Moderately common resident. Two pairs bred successfully.

PIED WAGTAIL Common resident and winter visitor. A maximum of 40 on Sept.14th.

WHITE WAGTAIL Regular spring passage migrant. Recorded as follows: 1, April 13th (GCS); 1, April 14th (IHB); 2, April 19th (IHB) and 1, April 20th (DMS).

WAXWING Five were seen adjacent to the golf course access road on Feb.4th (CRG) and 8th (JNM) but despite searching could not be located on other dates. These records coincide with a good influx into the local area and are the first records for the site.

WREN Abundant resident.

DUNNOCK Common resident.

ROBIN Common resident.

WHINCHAT Moderately common passage migrant. Records as follows; 1 April 27th; 1, Aug.17th; 3, Aug.27th; 1, Aug.30th; 2, Sept.1st; 1, Sept.2nd; 1,, Sept.3rd; 2, Sept.4th; 2, Sept.7th to 8th, 4, Sept.10th; 3, Sept.11th and 2, Sept.12th.

STONECHAT Irregular resident and passage migrant. One pair was present all year and bred raising 2 young. A second pair were present from Oct.1st to the end of year. In addition there was another male on May 18th, 1 juv Nov.7th and 2 juvs Nov.17th.

WHEATEAR Moderately common passage migrant. 1 to 3 recorded in spring from April 5th to 27th and 1 to 2 in autumn from Aug.31st to Oct.5th.

BLACKBIRD Common resident.

FIELDFARE Common winter visitor. Recorded until April 13th and from Oct.20th. The largest flock was 200 on

March 10th.

SONG THRUSH Common resident.

REDWING Very common winter visitor, Recorded until April 13th and from Oct.3rd. The largest number was 475 on April 6th.

MISTLE THRUSH Common resident.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Scarce visitor. One was briefly singing on April 10th (IHB), but could not be relocated.

SEDGE WARBLER Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded between April 18th and Sept.7th. Six singing males held territory.

REED WARBLER Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded between April 27th and Sept.22nd. Four singing males held territory.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Summer visitor. Recorded between April 27th and Sept.7th. 3 singing males held territory.

WHITETHROAT Very common summer visitor. Recorded between April 18th and Sept.11th. 16 singing males held territory.

GARDEN WARBLER Very common summer visitor. Recorded between April 20th and Aug.17th. 16 singing males held territory.

BLACKCAP Summer visitor. Recorded between April 13th and Oct.26th. 2 singing males held territory.

CHIFFCHAFF Common summer visitor and regular winter visitor. 7 singing males (from March 18th) held territory. The maximum count was of 20 on Sept.7th. Winter records were of singletons as follows; Nov.9th, 23rd, 30th and Dec.26th. One on Nov.21st was considered by the observer to be of the race Abietinus/Tristis (DMS).

WILLOW WARBLER Very common summer visitor. Recorded from March 30th. 14 singing males held territory.

GOLDCREST Common winter visitor and passage migrant.

FIRECREST Rare visitor. 1 was seen briefly on Nov.16th (IHB), in the same trees as the first bird in 1992!

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Regular passage migrant which has bred. The only record was 3 on July14th.

LONG TAILED TIT Abundant resident.

COAL TIT Regular visitor.

BLUE TIT Abundant resident.

GREAT TIT Abundant resident.

NUTHATCH Moderately common resident.

TREECREEPER Moderately common resident.

JAY Common resident.

MAGPIE Common resident.

JACKDAW Common resident. 200 were present on Sept.18th.

ROOK Regular visitor.

CARRION CROW Common resident. 53 were present on April 24th.

STARLING Abundant visitor.

HOUSE SPARROW Common resident.

CHAFFINCH Abundant resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 150 on Dec.14th.

BRAMBLING Regular winter visitor. Records were as follows; 1, Oct.24th; 2, Nov.11th; 5, Nov.17th and 30, Dec.8th.

GREENFINCH Common resident and winter visitor.

GOLDFINCH Very common resident and winter visitor. The highest counts were 70 on Aug.6th and 31st.

SISKIN Common winter visitor. Early year maxima was 30 on March 10th and in the late year 90 on Nov.2nd.

LINNET Moderately common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 150 on Dec.14th.

REDPOLL Winter visitor. There were no records in the early year and a maxima of 20 on Nov.30th in the late year.

COMMON CROSSBILL Rare visitor. Two flew SW on Aug.9th (IHB). The second record for the site.

BULLFINCH Common resident.

YELLOWHAMMER Resident in small numbers. At least 2 singing males held territory.

REED BUNTING Common resident. Eight singing males held territory. 25 roosted in reed mace on Nov.15th.

ESCAPES

BAR HEADED GOOSE Two on May 1st (JNM), no doubt originated from the collection at Eversley Cross!

OBSERVERS

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APPENDIX C

NOTES AND GUIDELINES ON BIRD RECORDING

Following the designation of Moor Green Lakes (part of the Eversley Gravel Pit complex) as a nature reserve, it is necessary to maintain a detailed log of birds using the site in order to monitor bird populations, with particular reference to conservation management carried out on the site by the Moor Green Lakes group and Hall Aggregates Ltd. These guidelines are designed to assist any persons visiting the site who wish to submit their records. The collection of such data is an important function of the group and all contributions, no matter how small, are welcomed.

Recording Area

The boundaries of the site for recording purposes are defined as:

In formation required

Ideally records should be submitted on Eversley Gravel Pit recording forms available from the recorder (please enclose an SAE). Records should be submitted every 3-4 months (or more frequently!) so that the log can be kept as up to date as possible. Less frequent visitors may wish to submit their records annually.

Where possible the following information should be provided:­

The attached species list for the site includes a code number in the left hand column. This refers to the type of records required for that species. The full list is described below.

Records should be sent to: 

lan Brown

26, Ashfield Green

Yateley,

Hants GU46 7AL

Sightings of birds in category 1*, would gratefully be received by phone (01252-878126) particularly if still present as this would enable dissemination of information to other interested observers!

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EVERSLEY GRAVEL PITS (INC MOOR GREEN LAKES)

BIRD SPECIES LIST 1990-96

    Codes:- See Bird Recording Notes

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APPENDIX D

NOTES AND GUIDELINES ON DRAGONFLY RECORDING

Any person visiting the site who wishes to submit dragonfly/damselfly records may do so as described below. Alternatively, observers may add their summary records to the monthly dragonfly sightings list which should be found in the hide.

Ideally, records should be submitted on Eversley Gravel Pits Dragonfly Recording Forms which are available from the recorder (please enclose an SAE) or on copies of RA7O recording cards. However, any attributable records would be gratefully received even if appropriate forms are not immediately available. Records should be submitted annually at the end of the active season for odonata.

Where possible the following information should be provided:

All records should be sent to the Recorder:

Ken Crick,

29 Village Road,

Yateley,

Hants,

GUI7 7SE

Information on sightings of rare or unusual species would be welcomed by phone (01252-872508) as this would enable dissemination of information to other interested observers.

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APPENDIX E

MOOR GREEN LAKES GROUP COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1996-1997 

* Represents the Moor Green Lakes Group on the Steering Group.

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APPENDIX F

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APPENDIX G

Note this is not the current Application Form

See the page on Joining the Group

MOOR GREEN LAKES GROUP MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

I wish to join the MOOR GREEN LAKES GROUP and enclose my subscription of £

       cheque/postal order/cash

MINIMUM SUBSCRIPTION: ADULT £2.00 UNDER 16s = £1.00. Renewable 1st September annually.

New subscriptions received May to August are valid until 31st August the following year.

PLEASE USE BLOCK LETTERS

FULL NAME: Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms______________________________________________

ADDRESS:

POST CODE:_______________________ TELEPHONE NO: __________________________

DATE OF BIRTH IF UNDER 16 YEARS: ________________________

Please indicate if you are willing to help the group by ticking the boxes below:

            COMMITTEE WORK:     DATA RECORDING:      CONSERVATION WORK:

SPECIAL INTERESTS:___________________________________

Please send this form and your subscription to the Membership Secretary:

Brendan McCartney, 123 Reading Road, Finchampstead, Wokingham RG40 4RD

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