MGLG - 1998 Annual Report

Colebrook Lakes, north and south, and Grove Lake have now been managed as a reserve for six years. During that time a great deal of conservation and management work has been carried out on the reserve by volunteers, principally from the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service and the Farnborough College of Technology, together with members of the Moor Green Lakes Group, This introduction provides me with the opportunity to again place on record our appreciation of the time and commitment given by all those who have helped in the management of the reserve.

This is a big reserve and from time to time we have had to resort to outside help, for example from the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers. This is likely to become increasingly necessary if proper control of the scrub, grassland and lake margins is to be maintained. Although the Group now has over 300 members unfortunately no more than about 5% have so far joined our periodic conservation work parties. If you are one of the 95% we would welcome your active support in the coming year, even if only for an hour. For details and dates of our work parties please ring Steve Bailey or Amanda Simpson-Atkins on 01252-335313 or check our latest Newsletter. Steve describes in Chapter 2 of this report the sort of work that needs to be done.

Since our last report the scrape in front of the Grove Lake hide has been completed and we hope this will provide equally interesting viewing to that from the hide on Colebrook Lake. A significant input into the design and construction of the scrape. as well as into the day to day running of the reserve, has been provided by Nick Mutch. Unfortunately Nick has had to leave us, having moved to Scotland. His contribution to the running of the reserve has been a significant one for which we have been most grateful. In his place we welcome Gerry Bryant, who has kindly agreed to take over the duties of Site Liaison.

A major problem during the year has been break-ins and damage to members’ cars left in the Lower Sandhurst Road car park, and also to some extent to those left in the Mill Lane car park. The distance of these car parks from our hides means it is impossible for members to reach their cars in time to prevent damage even when this is suspected of taking place. We have been considering what measures are possible which would help with this problem and have had an on-site meeting with the Thames Valley Police beat officer for the area. Following that meeting steps have been taken to make cars in the car park more visible, particularly from Lower Sandhurst Road. Other deterrent measures are still being examined.

On a brighter note we can report that the Reserve now has its own publicity leaflet, in full colour and with a map of, and information about the Reserve. We are grateful to Steve and Roselynne Skeffington of the BVRCMS for the design and compilation of the leaflet and to RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd for meeting the printing costs.

Like its predecessors. this report details the conservation and management work carried out over the period from spring 1998 to spring 1999 and provides information on the birds, plants and other wildlife groups for the period from January to December 1998. For those not familiar with the reserve a profile is provided at Appendix A and there is a map at Appendix G.

To date wildlife observations have been carried out largely on a random, rather than a systematic. basis, but it is now felt that the stage has been reached when a more controlled approach is needed involving properly organised surveys. A start has been made with plants where a systematic botanical survey of the reserve using random sample plots in under way, and, thanks to Kevin Briggs, we now have systematic monitoring of the use to which nest boxes on the Reserve are being put. This sort of approach will be extended to other wildlife groups. If you would like to participate in this survey work please let me know.

In order to make proper use of the results of these surveys it is important that we have a clear idea of our conservation aims and objectives. With this need in mind we have commissioned a new Management Plan for the reserve to provide an agreed direction for our activities for the next five years or so.

As you will see from Ian Brown’s account of the birds seen during 1998, which forms a major part of this Annual Report, the ornithological importance of the reserve continues and our thanks are due to Ian for the time and trouble he has taken to produce such a comprehensive account. In compiling their reports use has been made, not just by Ian Brown, but also by Ken Crick and Chris Taylor, of the records entered by members and others on the record sheets provided for this purpose in the hides. This help is greatly appreciated and enables us to monitor more closely these wildlife groups.

While overall management of the reserve is under the control of the Steering Group (see Appendix A for a profile of the Reserve), 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 whose Committee Members are listed in Appendix F. During the year there have been two Committee changes: Christine Rose has replaced Mark Taylor as Treasurer and as already mentioned Gerry Bryant has replaced Nick Mutch as Site Liaison Officer. Mark unfortunately had to resign because of other pressures on his time and we are grateful to him for all the work he did as our first Treasurer during these formative years of the Group.

Since our last report the commercial group of which Hall Aggregates (South East) Ltd formed a part has been reorganised and the company has been re-titled RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd.

Our 1999 Annual General Meeting, kindly hosted by RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd, was held at Finchampstead Memorial Hall on 26 February. Members were given a progress report on reserve activities and wildlife monitoring and the formal business was followed by an illustrated talk by our new Dragonfly Recorder. Ken Crick.

There have been two meetings of the Steering Group, in October 1998 and April 1999, at which we have reported on our activities over the past year and outlined our plans for the coming year. Also during the year we have issued periodic newsletters (“Moor Green News”) to keep you informed of developments on the Reserve, work party dates. etc. These have been the work of Brendan McCartney and we are most grateful to him for all the time and effort put into their production.

For further information about the Group and its activities the contact is the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service (BVRCMS), 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 on 01252-331 353. or Gerry Bryant on 01252-875952.

Finally, I am grateful to Brendan McCartney for the production of this report and to RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd for copying the report for circulation.

It was another busy year on the conservation work front. As the site gradually develops work rather than new projects becomes increasingly the repetitive management task. However, one major new development was the extension of the scrape in front of the Grove Lake hide. This task and some vegetation clearance was carried out by contractors but by far the bulk of the work this year has again relied on volunteer effort.

Fortunately volunteer numbers were slightly up from the previous year at 149 volunteer / days. However this does not give the full story; a marked fall in attendance at the monthly group working parties throughout winter had to be offset by organising a series of fortnightly midweek tasks relying on a few regular volunteers. Other volunteer input came from a BTCV (British Trust for Volunteers) weekend project, the Blackwater Valley Midweek Conservation Volunteers and, as during the previous year, help from Yateley cub-scouts and Farnborough College students.

My thanks go to all who gave their time during the year to help with the management of the reserve.

The highlight of reserve development was the large extension to the scrape in front of the Grove Lake hide. Extending the complete length of the eastern shore of Grove Lake this is now in essence a shallow lagoon. Water flow in and out of the scrape can be controlled so that it may be flooded or drained periodically to create bare mud. On the lake-side of the scrape bunds a shelf has been formed to create a shallow shoreline. This is regularly used by species such as Wagtails. Sandpipers and Greenshanks, which search through the washed up debris for food items.

Cattle were not introduced until spring - six, later eight, heifers were brought to the site on 19th April 1999. The cattle were still confined to the pastures around Colebrook Lake North at the time of writing (end of April). Although too late to create short grass for grazing wintering wildfowl, the grazing has produced an excellent mosaic in the structure of grassland. Spring grazing is recommended to help control some of the ranker grasses and other less desirable species.

As usual much effort was placed on controlling vegetation on the reserve islands. Long Island was showing the effects of little attention over the last couple of years. This was rectified with much volunteer effort to reduce trees and bramble, leaving just a few trees and bramble patches down the centre of the island. A large section of its north shore was strimmed to create short grass habitat. Unfortunately this work was delayed until February 1999.

Tern Island was cleared of bramble and the area of buried plastic sheeting extended. This sheeting is proving its worth in restricting vegetation growth, making clearance very much easier.

The rafts were not as successful as had been hoped. Some breeding occurred but they were mostly used by perching Cormorants, which left large piles of fishy guano. Some rafts broke free in 1998, at least two due to human interference, and others tipped up due to their small size being insufficient to overcome wave action. The rafts were removed in late February and were not replaced.

Weeding and trimming maintained the recently planted or laid hedges and the hedge by the hide is growing well. The dead hedge alongside the Colebrook Lake hide scrape was bulked up to maintain its screen function.

A contractor employed by Hall Aggregates carried out tree and bramble clearance around Grove Lake where bramble was overtaking the grassland and trees dominating the lake edge.

From the north and west shores of Colebrook Lake volunteers cleared trees and many bramble patches that were invading the grassland by this lake.

Many of the trees cut by both the contractor and volunteers were later treated with herbicide to prevent re-growth.

Seven new boxes were installed on four trees around the car park area. Six of these boxes, which were purchased, were made from "woodcrete". These boxes were expensive but last much longer and are more effective than home-made wooden boxes. It is planned to extend the bat box scheme around the reserve with a few new boxes every year.

The boxes were checked once during the year and the river alongside reserve was also monitored as part of the National Bat Monitoring Project Daubenton’s bat survey.

The new Grove Lake hide needed work to bring it up to the required standard, e.g. reduction in size of the viewing ports and weatherproofing. The combination locks have given problems by not lasting very long; they were replaced twice during the year, the second time with a new make which it is hoped will prove more durable and easier to use.

A major operation during the year was the cutting of many viewing points in the tree screens around the lakes. Farnborough College students who had previously undertaken this task were not able to help until later in the year and their assistance was sorely missed. The task dominated the volunteer group workload during the latter part of 1998. All were eventually cleared.

Each viewing point is cut in sections over a 5-year rotation, with the aim of creating hedges of thick coppice re-growth. This is now becoming apparent with the coppice zones seeming ideal for smaller birds.

The riverside path was cleared of overhanging vegetation by one volunteer task during the summer,

New signs were erected around the reserve to direct visitors along the footpath. It is hoped that this will reduce disturbance to wildlife caused by people entering the reserve without permission.

Car break-ins have been a problem in many car parks in the Yateley / Sandhurst area and unfortunately the reserve car park has been no exception. On police advice the car park hedge was removed and replaced with a low hurdle fence and this appeared to alleviate the problem for a while. A new Holly hedge was planted with the intention of keeping this as a low barrier once it has established itself.

The year began with moderately good numbers of wintering wildfowl, in particular there was a record site count of Gadwall (210). Goosander numbers returned to the levels of 1996, following last year’s remarkable influx and Smew were again recorded. Other early year highlights included Peregrine (three sightings in Jan), Scaup, and two Red Crested Pochards.

Early spring started with the undoubted highlight of the year - a Shore Lark found on the arable land to the west of the reserve. This predominantly coastal species delighted many visitors, some of whom were also fortunate to see the site’s first Marsh Harrier! Other spring highlights included two Ospreys, the site’s first Wood Warbler (all in April), Whimbrel, Wood Sandpiper, Blue Headed Wagtail (all in May) and Common Scoter (in June). Wader passage, however, was generally poor due to high water levels.

Breeding success was mixed. Redshank reared two young, being successful for the second year running. Lapwing (bettering last year!) and Little Ringed Plover were both successful, but of the regular breeders Ringed Plover and Common Tern failed. The small Sand Martin colony continued to grow reaching approximately 85 occupied nest holes. Woodlark bred for the first time and numbers of singing warblers were generally up, particularly Sedge Warbler, Garden Warbler and Whitethroat.

Late summer/early autumn began with two more site firsts, Little Egret and Nightjar, but both were unfortunately short stayers. Other autumn records included Red Kite (second site record), several Little Stints, another Osprey and a Ring Ouzel. Wader passage was again generally light. In late autumn a Dartford Warbler took up residence for several weeks until the first severe frost and Pintail and Grey Plover were recorded. The only record of note in the late year was a large influx of Coot resulting in a site record count of 391.

An annotated check list of all the species seen either on the reserve or on the land/gravel workings close to the reserve during 1998 is at Appendix B. This list is based on records provided by the observers below to whom I’m most grateful. Guidelines on submitting bird records are in Appendix D.

S. Bailey

A. Betts

Dr K.B.Briggs

Dr I.H.Brown

J.M. Clark

Dr M.N.Clifford

N. Fookes

C.R. Gent

R.J. Godden

J. Guningham

Ms D. Housley

Dr D.A. Hoyle

M.G. McCarthy

B. McCartney

Mrs R. McCartney

J.N. Mutch

E. Napper

N.R. Peters

C. Proudley

Mrs M. Robbins

Mrs C.Rose

G.J.S. Rowland

J.B. Sealey

D.M. Spittle

J.C. Tanner

Mrs L.D.M. Tanner

C.D. Taylor

Mrs M.N. Taylor

A. Twyford

l. Twyford

J. Uhlig

J. Westmacott

Mrs R. Westmacott

For the 1998 season extra nest boxes were added to those existing from previous years on the trees around the edge of the reserve. 24 of the 33 boxes were used for breeding. 7 pairs of Blue Tits started laying from the 15th April (mean laying date 22nd April) and produced clutches averaging 8 eggs. Unfortunately, one female was eaten by a weasel, another usurped by a pair of Great Tits and one pair deserted so 5 broods were hatched and fledged 31 young eventually.

Great Tits are very partial to nest boxes, the newer the better and 12 pairs occupied the boxes with laying occurring from the 18th April (mean date 21st April). Clutches were quite large (mean 8.25 eggs), with 99 eggs laid. Despite the poor weather, broods averaged 8 young and 96 juveniles were fledged.

No owls used the boxes this year but a pair of Stock Doves raised at least 2 broods of young. Mandarins occupied 4 boxes and laying started on 20th April. How many females were involved is a mystery, certainly 3 were seen on eggs but egg dumping must have occurred and 2 clutches of 10 eggs had different coloured eggs and were eventually deserted. One clutch of 9 had squirrel interference and was deserted: the remaining clutch of 8 eggs hatched but I never saw the young!

The first quantitative survey of the grazed areas around the Colebrook Lakes was undertaken in 1997. In previous years (1994 and 1995) only overall surveys around these lakes had been carried out.

This, it is hoped, will in time give a measure of the change in the plant communities present in response to management.

In 1998 the same method was used as in 1997, i.e. based on National Vegetational Classification (NVC) Methodology.

10 random samples (1x1 metre) were surveyed on 14th July, 1998, 5 on the north shore and 5 on the west shore of Colebrook Lake North. In each of the samples the species present were identified and quantified on the abundance present -

10.

<4% few individuals

<4% several individuals

<4% many individuals

4-10%

11-25%

26-33%

34-50%

51-75%

76-90%

91-100%

Table A shows the species recorded in the quadrants together with their frequency and abundance.

Table B compares the findings for sown species in 1998 compared with 1997 in the quadrants and in the surrounding areas.

The quadrant system located 16 sown species in 1997 and 15 in 1998. Geranium pratense. Knautia arvensis and Silene alba were absent in 1998 but the Hypochaeris radicata and Taraxacum officinalis were found.

Across the site the respective figures were 19 in 1997 and 18 1998, 18 species being common to both years.

In summary, 20 of the 24 species sown in 1992 were still present; only Ranunculus acris, Silaum silaus, Vicia sativa and Sanguisorba officinalis not being found in the last two years. Some species such as Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata and Leucanthemum vulgare are flourishing and are well distributed while others such as Hypochaeris radicata. Stachys officinalis and Taraxacum are sparse.

During the winter of 1997-98 the area was grazed between 23 November and 8 February by 4 cattle. This amount of grazing could, with advantage, been increased had stock been available.

Thanks are due to Steve Bailey, Irene Draper. Doreen Dye, Daisy Marshall and Marjorie Trendall for their help with this survey.

The years weather was not only a disappointment to us homo sapiens but also to the genus Odonata. The number of days suitable for flight was limited by low light levels, wind and rain. However, as many of you will have noticed, our living fossils make full use of every sunny spell.

For 1998 the footpaths round the site were broken into five discreet elements: Moor Green car park to Colebrook Cut, Colebrook Cut hide enclosure, Colebrook Cut bridge to the western edge of Colebrook Lake South, Grove Lake to the new hide, and the footpath between Horseshoe Lake and the River Blackwater. These routes were surveyed on thirty-five occasions between 25th April and 3rd October. Where possible visits were made during potentially good flight weather conditions and always between 10:00 and 16:00 hours. Ideally the times should be more closely regulated but life is not so predictable.

This year we had an improved data input from a small band of members and I am very grateful to them all for taking the time to record their sightings on the charts pinned in both hides.

The year got off to a good start with the first sightings recorded in late April and by early May good numbers of four species were regularly observed. On the 21st June the recorded sightings of various members totalled 10 different species present on that single day. In all 18 species were recorded on the reserve throughout the season.

Only nine species were seen copulating and of these only four species were seen ovipositing on the site.

The large roosts of damselflies and demoiselles reported in 1997 were not found in 1998.

Two days earlier this year than last. this species appeared in single figures from the 8th May. By the 1st June. 100 were present and the population had doubled again by the 17th June, reaching a peak of just under 300 on the 30th May. However, the 5th July saw a dramatic decline in numbers back to single figures. which continued until mid August This was unusually early for this species, the flight period of which normally ends at the beginning of September and has been recorded as late as October according to available literature.

Two males were found on the 4th May and numbers increased to 100 plus by the 1st June. The population peaked in mid June at about 120 with significantly lower numbers present throughout July. The population was assessed on 32 separate occasions but copulating couples were not seen before the 11th August, the 26th assessment, and ovipositing was only recorded once on the 19th August in the Blackwater adjacent to Grove Lake. The ovipositing female was almost seized by a Migrant Hawker but the attendant male Banded Demoiselle immediately attacked the much larger hawker and successfully drove it off. The male of the species was present in single figures until the 11th September.

Last year only one Large Red was reported, this year in contrast the species was the first to appear making its presence felt on the 25th April when three males were found along with exuvia at Colebrook Cut attached to reeds about 9 inches above the water level. The exuvia could be clearly identified from the “x” marking on the caudal lamellae. a small feather like appendage at the rear of the insect. The population peaked on the 20th May with 40 specimens recorded. Couples were recorded copulating and ovipositing on an excursion from the route defined above to the small stream running between the extant gravel workings and Eversley cricket ground. A number of Hobbies visited the reserve on the 30th May and by mid day on the 1st June no Large Red. Banded Demoiselle or Common Blue Damselfly could be found. The Large Red population never recovered. Four Large Reds were found at Colebrook Cut on the 24th June, males and females and copulation was the order of the day. Single sightings were made on three occasions by other recorders throughout August though the gender was not recorded.

Thanks to information from Phil Young, I was able to observe the presence of this species on the reserve having completely missed them last year. Their appearance was spectacular with 10 at one site, both sexes and exuvia. The reddish brown exuvia were found among the vegetation at the north west edge of Colebrook Lake North. Ovipositing was observed on two occasions in June, and their presence was last recorded on the 24th June. They could be observed locally with some comfort over the pond at Eversley Cross throughout their flight period. Numbers seen over the reserve never exceeded 10 at any one visit. The early disappearance of this species is surprising, as elsewhere in the Blackwater Valley they were present until the end of July.

Verbal reports were received of large numbers of Emerald damselflies adjacent to the reserve along the Blackwater but attempts to verify the reports were unsuccessful. They were formally recorded as present from mid-June until the 19th August. Only four separate reports were registered. the maximum present at any one time was three and only one female was seen.

Like the previous year. the first sighting on the 8th May totalled 100 individuals. This must be the most sexually active species on the site and copulating couples were almost always to be found from the 15th May to the 27th August. The population peaked at 600 plus on both the 12th June and the 8th August. The last male was seen on the 6th September. Ovipositing was observed on five separate occasions at 5 different sites. i.e. the scrape in front of the Grove Lake hide, the River Blackwater. the west corner of Colebrook Lake North, Colebrook Cut, and the small stream between the extant gravel workings and Eversley cricket ground. Exuvia were found in good numbers at Grove Lake on vegetation close to the bank adjacent to Lower Sandhurst Road.

One male was found on the 15th May, the only sighting on the reserve, but large numbers were present in the near vicinity at the pond adjacent to Eversley cricket club and also at Wyndhams Pool on Yateley Common.

The most spectacular sighting this year was of a very tired old male consuming a wasp, head first - a neat trick. This species was looked for in May but not seen on site until mid-June. Females were found in the very long grass between Grove Lake and Colebrook Lake South, and also in long grass in the north west corner of Colebrook Lake North. The highest number recorded on a single day was 17, with the last recorded sighting occurring on the 22nd August. Copulating couples were seen on two occasions.

Recorded as being present on two occasions in the form of a single male once on the 31st May and again on the 24th June. On the first occasion its presence was noted by Alex Twyford and subsequently by the author.

This species had a good long season last year but not this year. seen on only six visits to the site between the 21st June and the 6th August. The maximum number recorded on any given day never exceeded 2. All those sexed were males. In Britain a generation usually takes two years from egg laying to fully mature adult, so maybe next year will provide us with a spectacular display of Emperors. However this pioneering species may find our maturing lakes no longer to its liking and disappear altogether.

Present from the 4th July the recorded population reached double figures at the start of August and good numbers of females were present. The site was visited nine times in August and this species was present on every occasion, however copulation was not witnessed until the 30th August. The last recorded sighting was on the 10th October. Ovipositing was seen at small ponds elsewhere round Yateley but is unlikely to be witnessed at Moor Green owing to the difficulty of approaching the waters edge and the lack of suitable debris near the hides.

Seen only once, on the 20th July, a single male loitered only long enough to be identified before departing. This heath-land dragonfly can be found in the locality breeding in small deep cut but shallow stony-bottomed streams.

Observed only once, on the 20th July by Alex Twyford, in the Yateley vicinity. Seen in gardens and on the common, this species favours small open ponds and ditches.

Seen three times in August and twice in September. Where the gender was recorded they were all males. One specimen. judging from its very light colour tones. was an immature male recently emerged from its larval form. This species is reported to be common and if you stand still the males will fly close by while they inspect the observer before returning to their regular beat.

This species could be seen all over the reserve and was present from the 18th July until the 30th September. Both males and females were particularly active throughout September. The highest head count occurred on the 8th September when 16 specimens were counted. A copulating couple was encountered on the 25th August and photographed. The last recorded presence was on the 18th October.

The Colebrook hide charts indicate sightings of this species on seven days between the 21 June and the 27 September, always in single figures and never more than five on a single day. This is a large hawker that on the wing could easily be mistaken for a Migrant Hawker. All the blue spotted hawkers have a brown leading edge, the costa, to their wings with the exception of the Common Hawker whose costa is yellow. Also in the male the third segment of the abdomen is significantly necked in comparison with the other blue spotted hawkers.

Recorded on four occasions, all the specimens seen were males. The total number of insects seen was five and the sightings occurred between the 31st July and the 9th October.

The Common Darter first appeared in mid June. Numbers of immature males and females were found in the long grass at the north west end of Colebrook Lake North and exuvia were also seen in this area but none could be recovered. The immature darters dispersed after two to three days and three weeks later mature adults were back copulating and ovipositing in the River Blackwater. The largest population was recorded on the 25 August when 94 specimens were counted. Common Darters were seen to oviposit in the scrapes in front of both Colebrook and Grove hides. More often than not the female oviposits with the male in tandem. The male appears to select the site at which point the female’s abdomen is repeatedly dipped into the water. Some males actions are quite gentle whereas others drive the females into the water with great force. The last recorded sighting was on the 18th October.

The following 62 different species have been recorded on the reserve. Any person visiting the site who wishes 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.

Angle Shades

Barred Straw

Beautiful Golden-Y

Blotched Emerald

Brimstone

Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing

Buff Arches

Buff Ermine

Buff-tip

Clouded Border

Common Carpet

Common Footman

Common Wave

Dark Arches

Dot Moth

Drinker

Dunbar

Ear Moth

Elephant Hawk

Fan-foot

Figure of 80

Flame

Flame Shoulder

Ghost Moth

Grey Dagger

Heart and Club

Heart and Dart

Large Emerald

Large Yellow Underwing

Light Arches

Light Emerald

Lime Hawk

Marbled Brown

Middle-barred Minor

Mother of Pearl

Mottled Beauty

Oak Hook-tip

Peppered

Phoenix

Plain Golden-Y

Poplar Hawk

Riband Wave

Rosy Footman

Ruby Tiger

Sallow Kitten

Setaceous Hebrew Character

Shaded Broad-bar

Sharp-angled Carpet

Slender Brindle

Small Angle Shades

Small Blood-vein

Smoky Wainscot

Snout

Swallowtail

Sycamore

The Clay

Treble Brown Spot

True Lovers Knot

Uncertain

Willow Beauty

Yellow Shell

Yellow-tail

The number of butterfly species recorded on the reserve in 1998 was the same as in 1997, although slight variations in the composition of this total occurred. Species absent in 1998 but observed the previous year were Essex skipper and Common blue, while Marbled white and Painted lady failed to appear for the second year running. In compensation it was pleasing to note the sightings (by several observers) of Purple hairstreak on a number of days in July and the sighting of a Clouded yellow on 4th August. However, having enjoyed a boom year in 1997, Holly blue proved that it had read that year’s report by going virtually bust and appearing only once.

The only other noteworthy records for 1998 were those set by the weather, which was so frequently dismal as to risk making butterfly observers themselves a rare species. In fact the number of observers actually rose in 1998, and thanks are due to those hardy souls who contributed records and notes for this report.

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

Please contact Steve Bailey at the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service, telephone: 01252-331353.

Last year’s annual report carried information about the establishment of a Moor Green Internet Web Site, which went on-line in February 1998. Unfortunately, interest from the group membership in the project was sadly lacking and the site has been closed down. Brief details about Moor Green are now included on the Berkshire Birding web site at: http://members.aol.com/berksbirds.

BIRD LOG PAGE There was, surprisingly, very little interest in the bird log page. In order to devote as much available web space as possible to the main site (and conserve space on the writer’s hard disk!), the bird-log page was closed down in May, 1999. Adequate notice of the intended closure was given on the page itself and by Email bulletin to all members who had registered Email addresses with the Membership Secretary and a request was made for comments but only one or two members responded. Subsequent sighting reports from Moor Green, albeit few and far between, have been included in the Berkshire Birding Bird-Sightings page. Prior to the page closure Bruce Archer was the most prolific reporter with over 30 contributions following his regular weekend visits to the lakes. Two or three other members provided single reports during the year and Gary Randall, who is not a member of the group, also provided a number of reports.

HOME PAGE Following some 17 months on-line hits to the main web page were analysed by an online counter and found to be averaging only one or two per day. The majority of hits appeared to be as a result of web surfers accessing the Berkshire Birding site and then linking to the Moor Green site, rather than by direct access. By comparison, at the time of writing (July), the Bird Sightings page of the Berkshire Birding web site (also run by the author) had received over 2,000 hits since May. Again, to conserve web space the Moor Green site was reduced to a single page accessible via Berkshire Birding.

EMAIL BULLETINS Almost 50 members of the group submitted their Email addresses to the Membership Secretary, who distributed irregular electronic news bulletins concerning the reserve. Around a dozen such bulletins were issued during the year but, again disappointingly, the only response was one or two simple acknowledgements. Virtually no input for the bulletins was received from the membership, which was a great pity as Email provides a superb, quick and very cheap method for members to communicate news to others. Due to lack of response the Email bulletin service has now ceased.

The conclusion has to be drawn that those Moor Green members with Internet capabilities have little interest in either the group web site or of communicating with other members by Email. This is somewhat disappointing considering that the group has nearly 330 members, many of who professed an interest in bird watching on their application forms.

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 G.

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 certain limits. By this method, 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 RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd, Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service and the Moor Green Lakes Group. 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 was established in 1993. The group committee members are listed in Appendix F. The necessary costs of the Group not covered by membership subscriptions are met by RMC. 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 RMC which overlook respectively Colebrook Lake North and Grove Lake (see map at Appendix G). Unfortunately vandalism has meant that the hides cannot be left permanently open but members of the public may 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).

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis Resident and winter visitor, but declining. Two pairs bred rearing a total of five young. Numbers peaked in Aug/Sept with 9 on several dates.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus Common resident. A maximum of 15 was recorded on Dec.5th. A total of five pairs were present during the summer, three pairs successfully rearing a total of 11 young.

CORMORANT Phalacrocrax carbo Common winter visitor, which occasionally oversummers. Recorded in all months with a maximum count of 40 on Feb.1st. Roosting on the site was reported for the first time. All birds were of the race ‘sinensis’ (when assigned) except one of the race 'carbo’ on Nov. 3rd (DMS).

LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta Rare visitor. One was present in the Grove Lake area from 09.45 to 10.10 at least on Aug.10th (NF). This is the first record for the site and perhaps long overdue given the recent expansion in the south coast population.

MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor Common resident and winter visitor. Two pairs bred, one successfully rearing nine young. The maximum count was 37 on Oct.25th.

GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser Regular visitor. Recorded between Feb.7th and Aug.16th with a maximum of five on April 5th and June 16th. One was present from June 3rd to July 13th.

SNOW GOOSE Anser caerulescens Common resident, with birds from the nearby free flying flock regularly visiting the site. In the early winter up to 21 birds were present but this had dwindled to 16 by the late winter continuing the recent downward trend. Although birds were present on the site in summer there was no evidence of breeding.

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis Abundant resident. The maximum count was of 651 on Aug.26th.

BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis Common resident. The local feral population continues to increase. A site record of 206 was present on Nov.28th (IHB). Two pairs bred but the young were apparently predated.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE Alopochen aegyptiacus Scarce visitor. The only record was of 4 on Jan. 17th (IHB, PH).

SHELDUCK Tadoma tadorna Occasional visitor. One on Feb.5th and 10th, and a pair on several dates in May.

MANDARIN Aix galericulata Summer visitor in increasing numbers, irregular in winter. Recorded between March 7th and Aug.29th. At least five pairs attempted to breed. Two young were seen on several dates in August.

WIGEON Anas penelope Common winter visitor. Birds were recorded up to April 9th and from Aug.29th. The maximum count was of 293 on Jan.20th.

GADWALL Anas strepara Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. One pair was present throughout April, with a male on a few dates in May and June, but breeding was not suspected. The maximum count was of 210 on Jan.20th (JMC), a site record.

TEAL Anas crecca Common winter visitor, which occasionally summers. Recorded in all months except May to July. The maximum count was of 74 on Jan.17th.

MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 146 on Aug.14th.

PINTAIL Anas acuta Infrequent winter visitor. A female/imm was present on Oct.29th (MGM).

SHOVELER Anas clypeata Common winter visitor. Recorded until April 26th and from Sept.5th, with a maximum of 28 at the end of January. Two were present on May 7th.

RED CRESTED POCHARD Netta rufina Scarce visitor. A good year with one female on Feb.28th (IHB) and a male from March 7th to 18th (IHB et al). The first records since 1990.

POCHARD Aythya ferina Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. The maximum was 93 on Jan.31st.

TUFTED DUCK Aythya fuligula Abundant resident and winter visitor. During the summer only one brood of two was seen. Winter numbers peaked at 169 on Dec.7th.

SCAUP Atthya marila A scarce visitor. A first winter male present on Jan.31st (JMC et al) wintered on the nearby Yateley G.P.’s. The first record since 1993.

COMMON SCOTER Melanitta nigra Infrequent visitor. Three females were present until dusk on June 2nd (JNM, CR and IHB)

GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula Winter visitor in increasing numbers. In the early year up to nine (3m) were present with the last record on April 4th. First returns were from Nov.3rd, with up to 8 birds present till the end of year.

SMEW Margellus albellus Winter visitor. A pair was present on Jan.10th (IHB), with the female remaining until 11th. A male was present from Jan.25th to Feb.3rd (m.o).

GOOSANDER Mergus merganser Common winter visitor in increasing numbers. The early winter max at roost was 85 (21m) on Jan.21st. The last early year record was of five on March 28th. First returns were from Nov.17th. The late year max was 64 (21 m) on Dec.27th.

RUDDY DUCK Oxyura jamaicensis Irregular visitor of annual occurrence. The records were as follows: 1 imm male on March 7th; 1m April 9th; 1 on Sept.13th to 14th and 1f on Dec.13th.

RED KITE Milvus milvus Rare visitor. One seen on Aug.4th between 13.05 and 13:10 (MGM) was the second record for the site.

MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus Rare visitor. One female/immature drifted west on April 10th (JU et al) being seen by several observers visiting the site to see a Shore Lark! The first record for the site.

HEN/MONTAGU’S HARRIER A bird believed to possibly be a Montagu’s drifted NE at 17.00 on May 10th (DMS).

OSPREY Pandion haliaetus Scarce visitor. A good year with three records, 1N at 10.00 on March 31st (CR, JNM); 1N at 17.00 on April 26th (CDT. MNT) and 1 at 12.55 to 13.00 on Sept.30th (MGM).

HOBBY Falco subbuteo Moderately common summer visitor. One to five birds were recorded between May 15th and Sept.29th.

PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus Scarce visitor. Three records of a probable first winter male on Jan.3rd (IT, AT); Jan.10th (IHB, AB) and Feb.1st (JMC).

WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus Winter visitor. One was present until March 18th and one from Nov.14th till the year-end.

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus An abundant resident. The maximum count was of 19 on Dec.27th.

COOT Fulica atra An abundant resident. The maximum count of 391 on Dec.5th (JMC) was a record for the site.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between March 28th and Sept.16th. Five pairs reared a total of 2 young.

RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between Feb.21st and Sept.10th. During the breeding season one male held territory (until May 25th) and was joined by a female on May 8th. Seven were present on May 28th. Other records involved 1/3 birds on passage in Aug and Sept.

GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria An irregular visitor. Records were as follows: 10, Feb.5th; 34, Feb.9th; 25, Feb.12th; 1. Feb.19th; 8, March 7th and 1, Dec.12th.

GREY PLOVER Pluvialis squatarola Scarce visitor. One on Nov.12th flew off S at 10.45 (CP). This is the first record for November.

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus Common resident and winter visitor. Nine pairs attempted to breed rearing a maximum of 12 young. The maximum count was of 365 on Dec.27th.

LITTLE STINT Calidns minuta Uncommon passage migrant. A series of records in September all relating to juveniles as follows: 1 on 9th (MGM, JMC, IHB); 2 on 10th (IHB. MGM); 1 on 11th (MGM); 1 on 12th (IHB) and 3 on 13th (JMC).

DUNLIN Calidris alpina Regular passage migrant. The only spring records were of singles on March 23rd, April 3rd and May 15th. In autumn there were singles on JuIy 21st, Aug.8th, 12th, 15th, 22nd, Sept.15th and two on

JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus Uncommon visitor. Records were as follows: 1 Feb.4th (CR); 1 March 21st (CR) and 1 Nov.21st (IHB).

COMMON SNIPE Gallinago gallinago Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Recorded until April 24th and from July 26th, with a maximum of 18 on March 28th. An unseasonal record was of one on May 22nd.

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus Infrequent visitor. The only record was of a singleton, which flew NE on May 15th (IHB).

CURLEW Numenius arquata Regular visitor which may have wintered. One on March 17th (DH)

REDSHANK Tringa totanus Summer visitor and passage migrant. The first returns were on March 7th. Three pairs were present in the breeding season, one successfully rearing two young. The last record of summering birds was on July 24th. One on Aug.15th was probably a passage migrant.

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia Regular passage migrant. The only spring record was of 3 on May 8th. In autumn the records all of singletons were as follows: Aug.2nd, 5th, 8th. 9th, 28th, 29th, Sept.12th and 29th.

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus Winter visitor and common passage migrant. Recorded until April 26th and from July 18th. Records were mainly of 1 to 3 birds, with a maximum of 8 on Aug.10th.

WOOD SANDPIPER Tringa glareola An uncommon passage migrant. One on May 19th (IHB).

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos Common passage migrant. In spring up to 4 were recorded between April 18th and May 29th. In autumn up to 4 from July 11th to Sept.20th.

BLACK HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus Very common visitor. The maximum count was of 400 on Feb.17th.

COMMON GULL Larus canus Common winter visitor. The maximum count was of 60 on Jan.10th.

YELLOW LEGGED HERRING GULL Larus argentatus michahellis Regular visitor of annual occurrence. Records all involving adults were as follows: 1 July 18th; 1 Aug.22nd and 1 Sept.9th.

COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between April 20th and Aug. 9th with a maximum of 6 on several dates in May. One pair bred on a raft and although one young hatched surviving for three weeks it was probably predated. The only other record was of one immature on Sept.10th.

BLACK TERN Chlidonias niger Passage migrant of annual occurrence. One on May 11th (JNM et al).

STOCK DOVE Columba oenas Common resident. The maximum count was 66 on March 18th.

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Summer visitor. Recorded from April 23rd to June 20th. Two singing males held territory.

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

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

NIGHTJAR Camprimulgas europaeus Rare visitor. One hawking insects over Colebrook Island at 20.40 on Aug.16th (IHB) was the first record for the site.

SWIFT Apus apus Numerous summer visitor. Recorded from April 28th to Aug.22nd.

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis Moderately common resident. Two pairs bred successfully.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor Uncommon resident. The only records were of singletons on April 10th, Oct.3rd and Nov 30th.

WOODLARK Lullula arborea Irregular visitor which has bred. One pair bred successfully, constituting the first breeding record for the site.

SHORE LARK Eremophila alpestris Rare visitor. One on April 10th to 11th frequented the arable fields west of Colebrook Lake (CRG et at). The first record for the site and a totally unexpected find, which was seen well by many observers.

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia Common summer visitor. Recorded between March 28th and Sept.15th. There were 85 nest holes on the new workings on the Hants side of the complex. compared with 17 in 1997.

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica Common summer visitor. Recorded between April 5th and Sept.24th.

HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica Abundant summer visitor. Recorded between April 21st and Sept.24th.

MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis Common winter visitor and passage migrant, which has summered.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava Moderately common passage migrant which has bred. Recorded in spring on six dates between April 11th and May 21st. with 6 on April 11th. 1 on May 1st was of the ‘Blue-headed’ race (JBS). In autumn there was 1, Aug.16th; 1, Aug.18th and 2, Aug.22nd.

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea Moderately common resident. Two pairs bred successfully.

WHITE WAGTAIL Motacilla alba Regular spring passage migrant. The only record was of 1 on May 2nd (IHB).

REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus Uncommon visitor. One male on April 12th to 16th; 1, Aug.29th and 1, Sept.9th.

WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra Moderately common passage migrant. Records as follows: 1 May 16th; 1 Aug.18th; 1 Sept.9th; 2 Sept.10th; 2 Sept.12th; 3 Sept.13th and 2 Sept.14th.

STONECHAT Saxicola torquata Irregular resident and passage migrant. One male on Feb.21st was the only early winter record. One pair bred rearing 3 young. The only late year record was of 3 on Oct 9th.

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe Moderately common passage migrant. Recorded in spring from March 28th to May 9th (max 3 on March 28th) and in autumn there were 2, on Aug.18th and Sept.13th.

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus Scarce visitor. One immature male on Oct.7th (MGM). The third record for the site and the first since 1990.

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris Common winter visitor. Recorded until March 20th and from Nov.2nd (95).

REDWING Turdus iliacus Very common winter visitor. Recorded until March 28th (max 150 on Feb.28th) and from Oct.17th (max 185 on Nov.2nd).

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia Uncommon passage migrant. Up to three singing males were in suitable breeding habitat between April 21st and 25th.

SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded from April 22nd. Ten singing males held territory.

REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded from April 24th. Seven singing males held territory.

DARTFORD WARBLER Sylvia undata Rare visitor. A female/immature was present from Sept 29th to Nov.22nd (MGM et al). The first record for the site.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca Summer visitor. Recorded from April 23rd. One singing male held territory.

WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis Very common summer visitor. Recorded between April 11th and Sept.12th. Twenty-one singing males held territory.

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin Very common summer visitor. Recorded between April 18th and Aug.29th. Thirty-one singing males held territory, compared to 16 in 1996! This species has shown a marked increase over the last six years.

BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla Summer visitor and occasional winter visitor. Recorded between April 11th and Oct.3rd. Four singing males held territory.

WOOD WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix Rare visitor. One in sub song at 07.00 on April 23rd was no doubt a migrant and could not be relocated later (IHB). The first record for the site.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita Common summer visitor and regular winter visitor. One on Jan.31st and Feb.19th before returning birds from March 7th. Six singing males held territory. There were 50 on Sept.12th and late year records were 1, Nov.3rd; 2. Nov.21st; 3, Nov.29th; 3, Dec.12th; 1, Dec.19th and 3, Dec.27th.

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus Very common summer visitor. Recorded from April 5th until Aug.29th. Ten singing males held territory.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata Regular passage migrant which has bred. One on July 7th and 24th.

STARLING Stumus vulgaris Abundant visitor. A count of 128 birds moving was made on Nov.2nd.

BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla Regular winter visitor. Records of 1 to 5 birds on ten dates between Jan.10th and April 13th. In the late year the only records were of 8 on Nov.2nd and 1 on Nov.3rd.

SISKIN Carduelis spinus Common winter visitor. Early year maximum was 100 on March 16th. In the late year the maximum was 100 on Nov.14th.

LINNET Carduellis cannabina Moderately common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 120 on March 7th.

REDPOLL Carduellis flammea Winter visitor. Small numbers were present in the early year whilst the late year the maximum was 40 on Oct.30th and Nov.14th.

COMMON CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra Rare visitor. One flew over N on March 20th (IHB).

YELLOWHAMMER Embenza citrinella Resident in small numbers. Four singing males held territory.

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 RMC. 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.

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.

The species list for the site at Appendix C includes a code number in the left hand column. This refers to the type of records required for that species. The full details are:

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!

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 RA70 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.

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.