MGLG - 2000 Annual Report

The past year, 2000 to 2001, has seen the start of our more systematic and planned approach to conservation work and wildlife recording on the reserve, as heralded in our last annual report.

During the summer of 2000 our first major and comprehensive survey of breeding birds was undertaken for the Group by Kevin Briggs. This was carried out in accordance with British Trust for Ornithology recommended guidelines for a common bird census and has, for the first time, provided us with data on the number of species breeding on the reserve and, most importantly, where they are on the reserve and in what numbers. This will now allow us to examine their distribution throughout the reserve in relation to habitat and help in the formulation of specific management proposals for maintaining or improving particular habitats. The number of breeding species (at least 57) and the number of territories they occupied (over 400) is a measure of the ornithological importance of the reserve. One of Kevin's key findings was that the reserve is supporting nine pairs of Reed Buntings, a Red Data Book species over which there is national concern, because of their declining population.

At the same time, Ken Crick has begun work on preparing a new management plan for the reserve to direct and guide our conservation work in the future. The plan to which we have been working so far was drawn up when the reserve was first opened and no longer provides a suitable framework. for our current and future work programmes.

This eighth annual report describes the conservation and management work carried out over the period from spring 2000 to spring 2001 and provides information on the birds, plants and other wildlife groups recorded on the reserve for the period from. January to December 2000. For those not familiar with the reserve a profile is provided at Appendix A and there is a map at Appendix H.

The progress we have made over the last year with the management of the reserve could not have been accomplished without the hard work of a small number of Group members and the substantial support of conservation volunteers from the Blackwater Valley Countryside Service (BVCS). This report provides me with the opportunity of placing on record our thanks and appreciation to all those who have helped with this work. Particular thanks must go to Steve Bailey and Amanda Simpson-Atkins of the BVCS, both for organising working parties and for actively participating in them. Sadly Amanda has left the BVCS but has still continued to help us with conservation work.

The collection of records of the flora and fauna of the reserve has continued and reports of the major wildlife groups appear later in this report, including on this occasion some new information on the invertebrate's to be found on the reserve. We are particularly grateful yet again to Ian Brown for processing all the many bird records to produce for us the ornithological summary.

Use has again been made of the records members have submitted by completing the record sheets provided for this purpose in the hides. This help is greatly appreciated - do please keep using the forms.

Clearance of vegetation will again be one of our main tasks in 2001, both from around the lakes and from the islands. We would welcome your help with this work, even if only for an hour. For details and dates of our work parties please ring Steve Bailey on 01252 331353 or check our latest Newsletter.

Survey work in 2001 is expected to include our first detailed look at the aquatic plants on the reserve. This survey forms part of our new rolling programme of census work designed over a five-year cycle to cover the major wildlife groups. By following prescribed guidelines for the conduct of these surveys it will be possible to compare the results with the results of subsequent surveys conducted in precisely the same way. so that changes (improvements or declines) can be detected and their implications for reserve management considered. If you would like to participate in monitoring the wildlife of the reserve, and particularly if you have knowledge of a wildlife group we have not yet covered (e.g. wasps, ants, spiders) please let Steve or any committee member know.

Any review of our future plans would not be complete without a reference to the Manor Farm site immediately to the west of our reserve from which mineral extraction is now beginning. Revised plans for the extraction and restoration processes have just been approved by the Wokingham District Council Planning Department. An important condition of that approval is the requirement for the restoration of the site to include a “significant area of reed bed” A sub-committee of the RMC Steering Group, comprising members of RMC and. our management committee, has been set up to respond to the need to present Wokingham District Council planners with a detailed restoration plan showing how the requirement for such an area of reed bed or marsh could be met. Although the time scale for mineral extraction at Manor Farm is probably at least 10 years, it is important from the outset to determine how the site needs to be worked and restored to produce the desired reed bed habitat. The importance of this development for the Moor Green Lakes Group is that it opens the way to extending our reserve to include the Manor Farm site and for us to be involved in the running of the combined reserve. A considerable challenge.

Our eighth annual general meeting, kindly hosted yet again by RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd., was held at Finchampstead Memorial Hall on the 16th February 2001 and was well attended. At that meeting I retired as Chairman and was succeeded by Ken Crick, who has nobly taken on this role in addition to his already significant involvement in management work on the reserve, monitoring the reserve's dragonflies and damselflies and producing our newsletters.

There were a few changes in the composition of the management committee, as you will see from the new list of committee members at Appendix G. We welcome to the committee Sue Proudley (our new Butterfly Recorder), and Sheila Farmer (Membership Secretary). Retiring members Chris Taylor and Chris Gent were thanked for all the work they have done for the Group over the years. Chris Taylor’s retirement means that the committee is without a secretary and we are looking for a volunteer from members to help us in this respect. Additionally Jim Bennett has volunteered to act as the Group's Invertebrates Recorder. For further information about the Group and its activities the contact is the Blackwater Valley Countryside Service (BVCS) telephone 01252 33.1353. If any member notices something happening at the reserve which might result in damage or threaten wildlife, would they please inform the BVCS on 01252 331353, or Gerry Bryant on 01252 875952.

Finally I am grateful to Chris Rose for her help in the production of this report and to RMC Aggregates (Southern) Ltd. For copying the report for circulation.

As this is the last introduction I shall provide as Chairman I could not end it without expressing my thanks to those committee members, past and present, who have supported me with their help and advice. I wish the Group well in the years ahead.

An interesting year on the conservation front with much achieved despite a few problems along the way.

For the first half of the year work progressed well, with numbers attending the conservation work parties slightly up on last year. We were also able to organise the surfacing of the section of footpath between Colebrook Cut and the river a job needing doing for a number of years. This was only possible due to RMC providing materials for free and Wokingham DC ROW team paying for the labour required. With RMC also agreeing at an early stage to pay for contractors to carry out the heavy work of cutting the lakeside trees and viewing slots, the volunteer work parties were able to concentrate on island clearance and other more detailed jobs. This volunteer input included, The Blackwater Valley midweek Conservation Volunteers, and Reading YOC group, many thanks to them.

At the turn of the year Amanda Simpson-Atkins who had been organising and leading the conservation programme left the Blackwater Valley Countryside Service. I would like to record my thanks for all the work she has achieved over the last few years on the Reserve and so was delighted that she was able to carry on leading the Sunday Work parties as a fully paid up volunteer.

The good progress up till February was just as well, for in March the Foot & Mouth outbreak struck Britain and the site was closed so preventing further access for work parties. The year-end total was 131 volunteer workdays (not including cattle cheeks, gate-locking etc.) with all big jobs completed and a few minor ones left waiting next winter.

My thanks go to all of you who have given up time during the year to help with the management of the Reserve.

We were fortunate this year in again procuring the services of the BBOWT Highland Cattle herd and having them on site in the early winter. 11 cows and one young calf and a 1-day-old calf were brought onto the reserve in 1 November 2000. Whilst on site a further 2 calves were born and another young animal that had required extra care re-introduced to the herd. The animals left the reserve on 12 January.

As usual much effort was placed on controlling vegetation on the reserves islands.

Tern, Plover & Sandpiper islands have all been cleared of bramble and the patch of buried plastic sheeting on Tern Island was extended. This sheeting is proving its worth in restricting vegetation growth, making clearance very much easier. Posts to bear a mink-proof fence were specially made to our own design, but the cancellation of tasks required the postponement of the installation.

The dead hedge alongside the Colebrook Lake Hide scrape was bulked up to maintain its screen function.

The path hedge along the western boundary of the site was cut back by contractors, but not until a couple of volunteer tasks had been required to cut back the most invasive sections encroaching on the footpath.

A contractor carried out tree, scrub and bramble clearance along the north shore of Colebrook Lake North. Selected gorse bushes and patches of bramble were left. Many of the trees cut by both the contractor and volunteers were later treated with herbicide to prevent regrowth.

Volunteers cleared bramble patches from the north and west shores of Colebrook Lake that were invading the grassland by this lake. Work parties also cut scallops in the trees on the North shore of Grove Lake to prevent excess waterside shading.

Two patches of lakeside rushes on the North shore of Colebrook Lake were cleared to allow easy access/egress for Wigeon and geese wishing to graze the grassland.

I am pleased to say the hides have only required regular minor maintenance this year, applying preservative to Colebrook hide being the largest job,

2 viewing slots were cut by volunteers early in the winter a further 7 by a contractor finished the job.

The section of path between Colebrook Cut and the river was resurfaced by contractors and 2 access restriction barriers placed to prevent misuse of the path by motorcyclists and horse riders. Unfortunately despite careful research the barriers proved impassable to the motorised scooter used by one of our members, and so have had to be bypassed. Can any one who experiences problems due to motorcyclists and horse riders using the path please report this to a member of the committee.

Some small-scale clearance work took place in the car park finishing off the work on police advice designed to discourage car break-ins.

This year's report includes details of the Common Bird Census conducted on the Moor Green Lakes Nature Reserve by Dr Kevin Briggs. The aim of the survey was to produce a distribution map of breeding birds on the reserve that would then be used to assist in identifying management requirements whilst also providing a baseline for subsequent surveys to look at population dynamics. I thank Kevin for allowing me to use the data in this report.

In the early winter period there were average numbers of surface feeding duck. There were good numbers of Goosander roosting on the site, but the early winter highlight was the second site record of Little Egret. This bird often gave obliging views from the hides and was present on the site intermittently for seven weeks. The other early year highlight was Pintail.

Early spring started with two records of Osprey in April followed by 2 Whimbrels and 2 Red Kites that were no doubt wandering birds from the captive breeding program. Wader passage was generally light except for very good numbers of Greenshank. Undoubtedly bird of the year was an A too brief stay in May of a Red Necked Phalarope on Colebrook Lake North before being flushed by a Hobby! All witnessed by our conservation consultant!!

Breeding success was mixed with waders again faring poorly. Redshank were unsuccessful and left the site early but Lapwing did continue to prosper despite some losses to predators. Little and Great Crested Grebes had successful years particularly the former with 14 young raised mainly on the Hants side of the complex. However the best success of the year was Common Tern with six pairs rearing a total of 14 young on Tern Island! This is the best year since breeding first began in 1991. Mandarin were again successful in nestboxes and Woodlark bred on the site for the third year running.

Little Ringed Plover raised two young away from the reserve. A record total of 161 occupied nest holes were located in the Sand Martin colony. A total of 12 Hobbies were seen together in the reserve area in June.

Late summer/autumn saw a scattering of interesting waders with Oystercatcher, Ruff and a popular Wood Sandpiper. Other highlights included Scaup, a remarkable 5 Honey Buzzards together plus one other record, two more Osprey's, Peregrine, Mediterranean Gull and a Kittiwake. The year closed with returning waterfowl including a site record count of 353 Wigeon and a group of Pintail.

The flight season weather records associated with the Odonata population survey figures are not indicative of the poor summer I remember, each week it was possible to find a day with full sun but often accompanied by a stiff breeze.

The five transects remain as defined in previous reports, they were surveyed once a week between the 1st April and the 31st October. The survey methodology remains unchanged. During the winter and spring the opportunity was taken during conservation work party activities to sample the water life in search of larva, in order to generate a more complete picture of the Odonata life cycles on the reserve. Dragonfly and Damselfly location charts are included at the end of this chapter, plus a map of the site with matching co-ordinates to help readers see where the different aspects of Odonata activity have been observed. This map or a derivative of it will also be used by our freshwater specialist Dr. Jim Bennett who is responsible for its production.

The year has proved very productive; eight species of Odonata larva have been caught and positively identified. With Jim joining the group as an active recorder the chances of finding and identifying further larva have been greatly increased.

Blue-tailed, Large Red and Common Blue Damselflies along with the Banded Demoiselle have all retained a strong presence on site. However, the small number of Red-eyed Damselflies seen on previous years seems to have packed their bags and moved next door to Horseshoe Lake. The Emerald Damselfly population seems to be barely hanging on and the hoped for increase in Azure Damselfly numbers did not materialize.

On the dragonfly front, Four-spotted Chaser numbers have recovered well after their decline of the last two years. The Emperor Dragonfly, albeit only males were seen, is staging a comeback. Black-tailed Skimmers and Common darters were as active as ever. There was a further increase in Migrant Hawker numbers, the presence of Golden-ringed Dragonflies and Ruddy Darter were also noted.

Downy Emerald has been recorded within the population survey for the first time; mature adults, exuvia and a newly emerged adult were all seen.

The numbers of Brown Hawker have declined from their previous best year but numbers are still at an acceptable level.

Once again my thanks to those of you who have taken the trouble to record your sightings on the hide charts. It is appreciated.

The season started on the 29th April when two teneral form Blue-tailed Damselflies were observed on the bank of Colebrook cut. The population at Moor Green peaked at 140 during the second week in June. Throughout June and early July the population was always in excess of 100. Copulation was frequently observed and. all four colour forms of female were recorded as present. The final sighting occurred during the 1st week in September on Colebrook Lake North. Larva were found at two sites on Grove Lake, map ref 13V & 12W, and another on Colebrook Lake, map ref 11J.

This species was about ten days late in making an appearance this year. A single male was observed on the riverbank adjacent to Grove Lake during the second week in May and was last sighted during the last week of September. The population peaked only once with a count of 211 on the 26th June. Throughout June the population count remained in excess of 150 individuals. Despite the prolific nature of this species and a good sexual mix, at no time was copulation or ovipositing witnessed. The unusual sight of two males attempting copulation with one another was photographed, the male dominant having successfully grasped the male submissive by the prothorax, i.e. behind the head. Larva for this species was found in Colebrook Cut by the footbridge, map ref 10A

The 29th April also produced four teneral form Large Reds in the vicinity of Colebrook Cut. For the last three years this species has appeared first on or around Colebrook Cut during the last week in April. Both exuvia (shed larval skin) and larva were found at this site, map ref. 10A. In line with previous years, at Moor Green, the flight period was over by the end of June neither population survey or hide charts listing any as present beyond this date. However, the conservation working party of the 20th July I found five exuvia at map ref.2A. Large Red Damselfly lama and exuvia can be identified by a clear “X” mark on the caudal lamellae, three leaf like appendages at the rear of the insect. Pond dipping with Jim Bennett provided more larva at Goose Island, map ref. 11J.

During the population survey not a single member of this species was seen. The survey figures for previous years indicate that the population on site is always in single figures. The hide charts also failed to offer any recorded sightings. However during the winter a single larva was found at Grove Lake, map ref. 13V, and a single male was seen on the wing near Goose Island while in the presence of Dr Bennett.

This species came in with a bang, 232 were counted at its first showing on the 10th May. By the last week in May the population peaked for the year at over 1600 and averaged around 1200 for all of June. Numbers steadily trailed off until mid-August when a small population peak of 250+ was recorded. The subsequent decline reached single figures in mid-September with no sightings in October. Just off site on Horseshoe Lake a single male was seen on the 17th October. Common Blue can be seen copulating just about anywhere on site and in almost any weather conditions. Ovipositing is regularly observed on the lakes and was also seen in the river this year, when the water level was particularly low. Larva were found on site at map ref 2A, 11J & 12W. Exuvia, were also found in good numbers along the northern shoreline of both Colebrook and Grove Lakes.

After last years promise the numbers reported for this year were very disappointing. A male and female in tandem were seen on the 24th May followed by solitary individuals found on the 26th June and 8th July. The hide charts indicate better fortune for Alex Twyford who had 16 on the 18th May, with single specimens seen on two days in each of the months of June, July and August. Towards the end of February an Azure larva was caught in Colebrook Cut.

This species seems to have packed its bags and moved to Horseshoe Lake where they could be found throughout the season in the vicinity of the White Water Lily (Nymphae alba) recently established on site. Six males were found on the river on the 24th May and two males and one female were found within the bounds of the Reserve on the 3rd June. There were no independent sightings from members for this species and no exuvia or larva have been found to date. However, the BFBC Invertebrate Survey for 2000 recorded nymphs of this species from all six of the aquatic samples.

This is another species that disappears early from our site each year. Having emerged early in May they had gone by the 1st July. Elsewhere in the valley they could be seen on the wing throughout July. The highest number seen on a single visit was eleven individuals, exuvia were found and copulation and ovipositing observed both in the scrape in front of Colebrook hide and in the extreme northwest corner of Colebrook Lake, map ref. 2A. The numbers present this year have almost doubled over the previous best year of the ongoing population study

Seen for the first time on this Reserve its presence was independently noted by Steve Bailey, the contract entomologist Matthew Smith and myself. An exuvia was found with a newly emerged Downy Emerald in close proximity. Mr. Smith took the exuvia for positive identification off site. Photographs were taken of both the exuvia and the insect. The Downy Emeralds were active over Colebrook Lake North from the l0th May until the 7th June.

This resident species made its debut for the year on the 31st May. The population peaked at 18 during the last week in June and in common with previous years, the last sighting within the survey occurred during the third week in August. Overall the population on the Reserve appears stable. Larva have been found off Goose Island, Long Island and in the Grove Lake scrape system, map ref. 11J, 11G & 12W respectively.

The Emperor has made something of a comeback this year, as previously reported only one was seen in 1998 and four in 1999. This year nine were recorded over a 10-week flight period. Outside the constraints of the population survey the hide charts indicate 7 sightings during July and August. All the population survey sightings were of patrolling males. No larva or exuvia have been found to date.

The first Brown hawker appeared early this year, during the forth week in June. In previous years we have been well into July before they have made an appearance on the Reserve. The overall pattern of population peaks and troughs across the flight season has remained remarkably static over the last three years, the only difference being that this year the numbers seen are significantly down on 1998 & 1999. This leads one to speculate that the recovery in Emperor Dragonfly numbers with its aggressive territorial habit may have reduced the number of acceptable hawking sites for this species.

Our best year for this dramatic large black and yellow dragonfly. During the workparty of the 20th July a single male was seen at rest on vegetation bordering Colebrook Cut. Both Amanda Simpson-Atkins and Gerry Bryant had good views. On the 22nd July two males were recorded as present on the River Blackwater on the 15th August, a single male was recorded during a population survey visit. Therefore only one of these Sightings appears in the population survey. The importance of completed hide charts and data collected by members other than the recorder cannot be over-emphasized, particularly in respect of the casual non-resident dragonflies such as this species.

This species can be found without much effort locally on Yateley Common but it is rarely seen at Moor Green. An immature specimen was found during the 14th June population survey visit. The only other sighting for the year came from the hide charts and was recorded by Mr. J. E. Warren on the 10th June.

The numbers for this species have steadily increased over the last three years. The 1998 flight season recorded a total of 29 individuals, the 1999 total was 47 and for 2000 the figure increased to 61. The population was at its strongest throughout September with a maximum of 19 individuals on the wing on the 19th September. Copulation was observed on two occasions with some excellent photo opportunities materializing just outside the entrance to Colebrook hide.

There were no recorded observations of this species from the population survey visits. Alex Twyford recorded two as being present on the 16th September and on the 5th August; one was seen over Grove Lake and a second on Horseshoe Lake.

This not so common insect was not seen at all during the course of any population survey visit. Alex Twyford is credited with a single sighting on the 18th August.

The first Ruddy Darter was seen on the wing at the beginning of August. None were seen then until the 23rd August when 17 were observed at various points around the Reserve. The species were active on the Reserve throughout September with copulation and ovipositing witnessed over the scrape in front of Colebrook hide. In all there were 33 sightings of Ruddy Darter, the highest previous total was 6 for 1999.

Over the Reserve this species was on the wing from late June until the end of October. The population remains healthy and they can be found almost anywhere on site, the walk from the car park to Colebrook hide is particularly popular with this species, on warm sunny days in September and October. Small population peaks occurred during the last week in July and the last week in August as in previous years, followed by a large peak in the second week in September when 90 individuals were counted during a single 11/2 hour visit. The good numbers of Common Darters present was reflected in the records members provided via the hide charts. Copulating couples were often seen on the wing and ovipositing was frequently observed. Strangely as yet, no larva have been found.

Map Ref	2A	10A	River A to J	River K to V	9A	13W	14N	9B	11G	11J	12W
Four Spot Chaser WR	M F T C O E	M	M	M
Black-tailed Skimmer WR & B	M F L	M F T C	M F T C	M F C				M F C O	L	L	L
Common Darter WR	M F T C O E	M F T	M F T C O*	M F C		M F C O		M F C O
Emperor Dragonfly 7 & <7	M F O	M	M	M							L
Brown Hawker WR	M	M	M F	M F C
Migrant Hawker 7 & <7	M	M F O	M F C	M F		M		M
Common Hawker <7	M	F		M
Ruddy Darter	M		M	M
Southern Hawker 7 & <7	M		M		M		M F
Golden-ringed Dragonfly <7			M F				M
Downey Emerald	T M E

As I took over as butterfly recorder in May 2000 I regret my records are not as comprehensive as I would have liked. I would like to thank Ken Crick and Chris Rose for all their help and advice in getting me started. My thanks, also, to all the people who have contributed their observations. I do not know all the names so I am sorry that I cannot give more than initials, taken from my monthly sighting charts, on my list of observers below.

2000 has been a year of mixed fortunes for butterflies with some appearing in good numbers and others very hard to find or absent. There were good numbers of Comma, but few Small Tortoiseshell and no Green Hairstreak or Holy Blue. There were three records of Purple Hairstreak and one Grayling. Three Painted ladies visited in June and two Clouded Yellows were seen in August and September. The final entry for the year was for three Red Admirals recorded on 4th November.

The record rainfall in the autumn reduced late fliers and will pose more problems in survival for next years butterflies

Sue Proudley maybe contacted on tel: 01252 875536 or by e-mail: cproudley@talk21.com

April - Nov 2000	APRIL	MAY	JUNE	JULY	AUG	SEPT	OCT	NOV	DEC
(Thymelicus sylvestris)			3	15	1
(Thymelicus lineola)				4
(Ochlodes venata)			12	29	1
(Colias crocea)					2	2
(Gonepteryx rhamni)	3	4	2	1	2
(Pierce brassicae)		2	2	10	12	3
(Pieris rapae)	5	4		5	8
(Pieris napi)		1		4	1	1
(Anthocharis cardamines)	1	10	2
(Callophrys rubi)
(Quercusia quercus)				3
(Lycaena phlaeas)		2	1		2
(Polyommatus icarus)		1	2		1
(Celastrina argiolus)
(Vanessa atalanta)		1	7	7	1	2	2	3
(Cynthia cardui)			3	1
(Aglais urticae)	1	3	1		2
(Inachis id)	5	9	1		2	1
(Polygonia c-album)	6	6	2	17	2	11
(Pararge aegeria)	2	8	3	11	19	9	2
(Melanargia galathea)
(Hipparchia semele)					1
(Pyonia tithonus)			1	60	15
(Maniola jurtina)			16	100	20	2
(Aphantopus hyperantus)			12	50	1

The full list of mammals observed on the Reserve during recent years totals 22 species. A sighting of one weasel in 2000 brings this number to 23. Red fox and Roe deer are the most often noted mammals while evidence of Badger activity was reported this year from a dug out bees' nest.

Roe are resident throughout the year and the largest number seen at any one time on the site or nearby fields was seven. Roe deer rut occurs during July, and in May at least three bucks could be identified by their growing antlers. Although the size and form of the antlers is not an indication of age, as it is in other deer species, at least one buck appeared to be a yearling This year only one fawn was observed.

During October, a live-trapping survey of small mammals was carried out using the standard Longworth and Wellfield traps and covered an area between the north and south cuts leading into Colebrook Lake. The traps were laid out in a grid pattern and their position recorded. Environmental and vegetation conditions were also recorded. For a few nights before the survey, traps are baited with food but left locked open. This ensures that the animals become familiar with the traps and aware of the new food source. Nonetheless some animals never enter traps while others take advantage of the free meals and become 'trap-happy'. From 19 traps set only 5 animals, all Wood Mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) were captured. Details are given below. All were released unharmed.

Wood Mice are generalists and survive in a variety of habitats so could be expected anywhere on the Reserve and the presence of young and breeding animals is evidence of a healthy population. Previous surveys have indicated populations of bank and field vole (which are prey species for many avian and mammalian predators) as well as shrews and moles. The lack of numbers/species in this survey does not necessarily indicate a decline in diversity but rather confirms the need for continued monitoring of the reserve. Further surveys will be made over future years, which will also involve different habitat types and recapture exercises to estimate population sizes.

A survey of bat populations is being carried out during 2000 by a student from Farnborough College of Technology and results will be reported as they are received - See Bat Survey 2000 over page.

There has been little indication on the Reserve or on the banks of the River Blackwater of Britain's fastest-declining mammal - the Water Vole (Arvicola terrestris). Habitat loss and predation (recently from introduced American mink) are the main causes for its decline. The Biodiversity Action Plan has targeted Water Vole, habitat for special protection measures. Regular monitoring of the Reserve and riverside vegetation is therefore advised and it would be particularly useful if members could report any sightings to the Mammal Recorder and/or County Recorders as and when they are noticed.

Please send all your records of mammal sightings to: Katrina Slocombe, 28 Green Lane, Blackwater, Camberley, Surrey, GU17 9DH, or pass them to any member of the committee.

Prior to 2000 four species of bats have been recorded on the reserve Pipistrelle, Noctule, Daubenton's and Long-eared, but these records result from a few ad hoc visits and give little indication of how bats are using the reserve.

Surveying bats presents a number of difficulties, how in the middle of the night do you identify and count small dark fast flying animals with calls outside human hearing? Modem technology provides an answer in the form of ultrasonic detectors that can convert the bat's calls to a frequency humans can detect. Tuneable detectors have been available for a number of years, these are excellent machines but do have the drawback that they can only pick up a narrow band of sound frequency at any one time, so some species can be missed whilst the calls of many species are very difficult to separate. The latest range of detectors solves this by using a time expansion technique, the equivalent of slow motion replay. These record a short segment of call of all frequencies then replay it at 10 times slower. This method brings it into our hearing range.

The recording can be played through a computer sound analysis programme thereby giving much improved identification. This technology is the only sure way of identifying many species without actually catching the bats (something a lot easier said than done!) and has helped separate the British Pipistrelle into two separate species.

A quantifiable Bat Survey of the reserve had been programmed in for 2004. This was brought forward when I was successful in a bid to the Bat Group Support Fund for financial assistance for equipment for research on the use of gravel pit habitats by feeding bats. The reserve was selected as one of four ex-gravel pits to see which habitats and management techniques are the most valuable for bats. Lessons learned will prove useful not only at the reserve but also on other gravel pits.

To get comparative data a set transect route around each gravel pit was established with 10 sampling points. A recording was made for 2 minutes at each point, after 10 minutes pause the route was walked in reverse to give a total of 4 minutes recording at each point. Transects were walked fortnightly between April and July. The Moor Green transect covered the west and south shores of Colebrook Lake. Coincidentally the National Bat Monitoring Programme asked me to monitor the River Blackwater for Daubenton's bats in September using a 4-minute recording at 10 points along the entire length of the reserve.

The intention is to repeat the surveys in 2001; full results will be given in next year's annual report. Preliminary results confirm that as expected Pipistrelles are by far the most numerous species of bat using the reserve, with roughly twice as many P.pygmaeus as P.pipistrellus (sorry no English names as yet). Noctules were present on every walk with activity increasing dramatically from mid-summer onwards. Daubenton's bats were present but infrequent on the river, being more active around the lakes. On one visit in June a large congregation of feeding bats could be heard near the river, but not seen. These were probably one of the Myotis species that have calls difficult to separate to species. The group includes Natterer's, Brandt's and Whiskered bats.

Due to difficulties in locating and identifying flying bats a programme of siting and checking bat boxes can provide extra information. Eight more boxes wore sited in the reserve bringing the total to 43; these were all checked in spring and autumn. The boxes included a variety of designs including a couple of experimental designs. No bats have yet been found in any but eight did have birds' nests.

My thanks go to Tania Gilbert who carried out most of the transects and Dave Pilkington and other members of the Blackwater Valley Conservation Group who helped with the bat box construction, erection and monitoring.

A number of preliminary surveys were carried out, firstly to initiate a freshwater invertebrate species list, and secondly to establish a standard sampling method for future surveys. Although at present the species list is somewhat limited, in time this should increase and a more detailed survey of dragonfly & damselfly larvae is planned for 2001. The sampling method that appeared to be the most effective for the potential habitats at Moor Green is as follows:

The moving water in the "cuts” gave some interesting variations to the still water invertebrates of the lakes, perhaps most notable was one of the net spinning caseless cadis fly larvae, Hydropsyche angustipennis. This group are normally found in rivers and streams as they need a minimum flow of water to extend their nets out into the current, but as this particular species has a tolerance of high temperatures, low oxygen concentrations and low water velocities, it's often found in the outflows of ponds and lakes.

Whilst the most common freshwater shrimps are the Gammarus species, at Moor Green we have the smaller and darker species Crangonyx pseudogracilis. This is an introduced species (1936) from North America, now common in the midlands and southern England. It tends to occur in habitats where Gammarus is absent and can tolerate much lower levels of dissolved oxygen. Both species of water scorpion (Nepa cinerea & Ranata linearis) were found, neither of which is common and only one specimen of R. linearis was found (in the input "cut" to Grove Lake).

Over the last 3 years Bracknell Forest Borough Council have commissioned a series of entomological surveys of key areas of habitat in their Borough. In 2000 they earmarked the wetland areas in their Borough including Horseshoe Lake. Part of Grove Lake fails within Bracknell District but R seemed odd to survey part of a lake. The long term survey programme approved by Site Management Committee had already identified invertebrates as requiring survey work. It was thus most helpful that RMC were able to bring forward funds to enable the whole complex to be surveyed.

The survey was carded out by Matthew Smith a professional consultant entomologist. A short preliminary site visit in May was followed by one day in June and again in July. On all 3 visits terrestrial samples were collected by sweep net, beating and observation.

This report details only the results from the Reserve itself. 208 different species were recorded, over a quarter of these are regarded as locally or nationally scarce. See table 1.

Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and allies) composed over a quarter of the terrestrial species. This included the Red Data Book species Hedychridium coracieum (a cuckoo wasp). This species is a cleptoparasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bee or wasp species. Other uncommon species discovered were the solitary wasp Crabo scutellatus and the solitary bees Andrena labiata, A. humilis, and Macropis europea, a species that relies on the flowers of yellow loosestrife.

Twenty species of butterfly and moths were recorded including Small Copper a 'Berkshire 100' species, and 10 species of Odonata were seen as flying adults.

Aquatic samples were taken from 6 samples on the margins of the lakes. One site was Colebrook Cut, and two in the scrapes in front of each hide. Species recorded included the water beetle llybius fenestratus and the large pond skater Aquarius paludum, both these are scarce species that show a preference for large open bodies of water.

Interestingly there was a significant proportion of both the terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates recorded that are regarded as heathland species, no doubt attracted to the site by the sandy and acidic conditions prevailing.

Taxa with small populations that are at risk. Found in fifteen or fewer 10km squares.

Taxa outside RDB categories but are uncommon and thought to occur in 30 or fewer 10km squares.

Taxa outside RDB categories but are uncommon and thought to occur in between 31 and 100 10km squares.

This term is not rigidly defined but is used for taxa found in more than 100 10km squares but that are usually associated with better quality habitat, a particular geographic area or are widespread but infrequently encountered.

Codulia aenea. Notable B. Downy Emerald. A dragonfly associated with ponds of heathland and woodland. Not uncommon in the local area on older water bodies with surrounding. trees

Conocephalus discolor. Notable A. Long‑winged Conehead. A small bush cricket found in rough damp grassland. Range expanding rapidly in recent years.

Metriopters roeselii Notable B. A medium sized brown bush cricket with a very high pitched song, found in long grassy vegetation. Also has undergone a significant range expansion recently

Aquarius paludum. Notable B. A large pond skater found on open water. Largely confined to SE England.

Zodion cinereum. Notable B. A small conopid fly whose larvae are internal parasites of solitary bees such as Halictus or Hylaaeus.

Andrena humilis Notable B. A ground nesting solitary bee, nesting burrows are dug in hard sand in sunny situations. This species seems to exhibit a preference for yellow composites such as Hiericium and Crepis. I.e. Hawkweeds and Hawk's-beard

Andrena labiata. Notable A. Girdled Mining Bee. A small red and black mining bee, nesting in sandy soils in a variety of habitats. There is a close and possibly obligate relationship with Germander Speedwell. Apparently declining.

Crabo scutellatus. Notable A. A medium sized black and yellow solitary wasp, usually restricted to southern heathlands. Nests in bare sand exposed to full sun but preys on Dolichopus flies that are characteristic of damp areas and wetland margins.

Hedychridium coracieum. RDB3 A small ruby tailed wasp of open sandy areas, known from a few, usually heathland, sites in S England. Parasitoid on larvae of the solitary wasp Lindenius albilabris a common species of sunny areas of bare sand.

Lasius brunneus. Notable A. A small tree dwelling ant constructing its nests in cavities or old beetle borings, often on oak or hawthorn.

Macropis europea. Notable A. Recorded sparingly across S England but not uncommon in the Blackwater Valley and surrounding area. Found in association with Yellow Loosestrife.

Nomada fucata. Notable A. A black and yellow cuckoo bee cleptoparasitic on Andrena flavipes. Possibly increasing in range.

Sapyga clavicornis. Notable B. A black and yellow wasp cleptoparasitic on bees of the genera Chelostoma and Osmia.

Tiphia minuta. Notable B. A small black solitary wasp, larvae probably parasitic on dung beetles larvae.

Anagiptus mysticus. Notable B. A grey and red-brown longhorn beetle that breeds in dry dead wood of standing trees. Particularly favours trees scorched by fire. Adults often found at hawthorn blossom.

Helochares punctatus Notable B. Water beetle typically found in acidic pools on moors or heaths

Iybius fenestratus. Notable B. A reddish-black diving beetle that colonises new gravel workings.

Quantitative surveys of the grassed areas around the Colebrook Lakes were undertaken in 1997 & 1998 (but not 1999) and prior to that only overall surveys of the species present were carried out.

It is hoped that quantitative surveys over a period of time will give a measure of the change in the plant communities present in response to management.

The method used was based on National Vegetational Classification (NVC) Methodology and the survey was undertaken in July as it was in 1997 & 1998.

Ten random samples (1x1 metre) were surveyed on 10 July 2000, five on the north shore and five on the west shore of Colebrook Lake North. In each of the samples the species present were identified and quantified on the abundance present.

Table A shows the species recorded in the quadrants together with their abundance and frequency, and Table B other species found in the surrounding area.

Some 24 species were in the original seed mixture and of these 16 were found in the quadrants and a further 3 (Knautia arvensis, Silene alba and Stachys officinalis) in the surrounding area. Predominant species in the quadrants were Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata and Centaurea nigra, the latter particularly on the West side. These same species were predominant in 1998 and among the predominant species in 1997. There was little evidence of tree or shrub invasion. Crategus was recorded in one quadrant on the North side. Among the grasses Holcus lanatus and Agrostis were predominant. Holcus had increased considerably over the last three years.

The area was under‑grazed this season with cattle on site from 14th March to 17th April so that by the time the survey was done in July the area seemed somewhat "overgrown".

Thanks due to Mike Gibbs, Jack & Helen Edwards, Doreen Dye and Stephanie Davies for their help in this survey.

	LATIN NAME	COMMON NAME	COLEBROOK LAKE NORTH
			North Side	West Side
S	Achillea millefolium	Yarrow	II (8-10)	0
S	Centaurea nigra	Black Knapweed	II (1-3)	V (1-7)
	Cerastium fontanum	Mouse-ear Chickweed	0	I (1)
	Cirsium arvense	Creeping Thistle	I (4)	II (14)
	Crataegus monogyna	Hawthorn	I (1)	0
	Crepis capillaris	Smooth Hawks-beard	I (2)	0
S	Daucus carota	Wild Carrot	I (1)	III (1-3)
	Galium mollugo agg	Hedge Bedstraw	0	I (1)
S	Galium verurn	Lady's Bedstraw	I (1)	II (1)
S	Geranium pratense	Meadow Crane's-bill	0	I (1)
	Humulus lupulus	Hop	0	I (1)
S	Hypericum perforatum	Perforate St John's-wort	II (1-2)	0
S	Hypochaeris radicata	Common catsear	II (2-5)	I (4)
S	Leucanthemum vulgare	Ox-eye daisy	V (2-8)	IV (3-5)
S	Lotus corniculatus	Common Bird's-foot Trefoil	II (1-5)	III (1-7)
	Lychnis flos-cuculi	Ragged-robin	0	I (1)
S	Medicago lupulina	Black Medick	I (5)	I (1)
S	Piantago lanceolata	Ribwort Plantain	V (1-9)	IV (5-7)
S	Prunelia vulgaris	Selfheal	0	II (2-4)
S	Ranunculus acris	Meadow Buttercup,	0	II (1-2)
	Ranunculus repens	Creeping Buttercup	I (4)	I (8)
S	Rumex acetosa	Common Sorrel	II (3)	I (1)
	Rumex acetoselle agg	Sheep's Sorrel
	Sanguisorba minor	Salad Burnet	I (1)	0
	Senecio jacobaea	Ragwort	III (1-4)	0
	Stellaria graminea	Lesser Stitchwort	V (1-4)	III (1)
S	Taraxacum officinale agg	Dandelion	0	II (1)
	Trifolium arvense	Hare's-foot Clover	I (7)	0
	Trifolium dubium	Lesser Trefoil	I (1)	0
	Trifolium pratense	Red Clover	II (3-8)	III (1-6)
	Trifolium repens	White Clover	III (3-5)	I (5)
	Vicia hirsuta	Hairy Tare	0	I (2)
	Vicia sativa agg	Common Vetch	I (3)	0
S	Vicia tetrasperma	Smooth Tare	II (2-8)	III (1-3)

	Agrostis spp	Bent spp	V (8-10)	V (3-10)
	Anthoxanthum odoratum	Sweet Vernal Grass	I (1)	0
	Bromus hordeaceus	Smooth Brome	0	I (7)
	Elymus repens	Common Couch	I (4)	0
	Festuca rubra	Red Fescue	I (10)	0
	Holcus lanatus	Yorkshire Fog	V (1-7)	V (1-9)
	Lolium perenne	Perennial Rye Grass	0	H (2-5)
	Poa pratensis	Smooth Meadow Grass	0	I (3)
	Poa trivialis	Rough Meadow Grass	II (2-3)	I (4)
	Vulpia bromoides	Squirrel-tail Fescue	I (4)	0
	Juncus effusus	Soft Rush	0	I (4)
Note: S = Sown species

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 fisheating birds, has produced records of the following:

The Moor Green Lakes 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 H.

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 Countryside 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 G. 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 H). 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 Resident and winter visitor. A good breeding season with five pairs rearing a total of at least 14 young. A maxima of 23 were recorded on Sept.16th. No territories were recorded on the CBC.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Common resident. A maxima of 27 were recorded on Jul.22nd. A total of six pairs were present during the summer (4 in CBC area), three pairs successfully rearing a total of 7 young.

CORMORANT Common winter visitor that occasionally oversummers in small numbers. Recorded in all months with maximum count of 41 on Nov. 11th.

LITTLE EGRET Rare visitor. One present on 11 dates between February 2nd and March 22nd (SD et al). The only previous record was in 1998.

MUTE SWAN Common resident and winter visitor. Two pairs (one in CBC area) attempted to breed, but were unsuccessful.

GREYLAG GOOSE Regular visitor. Recorded between Mar 18th and Oct.4th with a maximum of five on Mar.25th.

SNOW GOOSE Common resident, with birds from the nearby free flying flock regularly visiting the site. In the early and late winter periods up to 21 and 19 birds were present respectively. Although birds were present on the site in summer (CBC located one territory) there was no evidence of breeding. One additional bird showing some characters of 'blue phase' morph was present on several dates in June/July.

CANADA GOOSE Abundant resident. The maximum count was of 430 on Nov.11th. CBC located 32 territories.

BARNACLE GOOSE Common resident. The local feral population continues to thrive although numbers were lower than in 1999. Five pairs attempted to breed, two of which raised broods but only one young survived due to predation.

MANDARIN Summer visitor in increasing numbers, irregular in winter. Breeding birds recorded from Mar. 11 th. Two pairs bred successfully in nest boxes. The only winter record was of a pair on Jan.2nd.

WIGEON Very common winter visitor. Birds were recorded up to Apr.9th and from Aug.26th. The maximum count was of 353 on Dec.8th, a site record (IHB) This is the second year in succession that a site record count has been achieved.

GADWALL Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. One/two males oversurnmered with a female occasionally present from June onwards but breeding could only be considered possible.

TEAL Common winter visitor that occasionally summers. One pair was present irregularly through the summer but breeding was not suspected. Recorded in all months except May and July. The maximum count was of 61 on Jan. 18th.

MALLARD Common resident and winter visitor. Numbers may be declining. The maximum count was 83 on Nov. 18th. CBC located 25 territories/pairs.

PINTAIL Uncommon but regular visitor. Recorded as follows: 1f, Feb. 19th(m.o), 1f, Jun.10th (JEW,IHB), 1m3f, Nov.7th (GR) with 2f still present on Nov.11th (IHB).

POCHARD Common winter visitor, irregular in summer. The maximum was 60 on Feb. 15th.

TUFTED DUCK Abundant resident and winter visitor. During the summer three broods totalling 17 young were raised. CBC located 33 territories/pairs. Winter numbers peaked at 154 on Dec.30th.

SCAUP Scarce visitor. An imm f was present on the Hampshire pits from Sept.7-14th (IHB). The fifth site record.

GOLDENEYE Winter visitor in increasing numbers. In the early year up to 11 (4m) were recorded until Apr.7th. First returns were from Nov.18th, with up to 6 (4m) birds present till the end of year.

GOOSANDER Common winter visitor. The early winter max at roost was 72 in January. The last early year record was a singleton on Apr. 7th. First returns were from Nov. 16th. The late year max was 47 on Dec.28th.

RUDDY DUCK Occasional visitor of annual occurrence. Two imm males were present from Mar.11th to 30th, one remaining until Apr.22nd. One imm male Dec.20th-27th.

HONEY BUZZARD Scarce visitor. One SE on Sept.22nd (TB) and exceptionally, five south on Oct.2nd (NRG, RJG). The fourth and fifth site occurrences. These records coincided with an unprecedented influx into the UK of birds from Scandinavia.

RED KITE Scarce visitor. Two records; one north on Apr.22nd (IHB et al) and 1 on May 16th (DB).

BUZZARD Uncommon visitor. Three records; 1W on May 5th (IHB), 1NE June 2nd (JW, RW) and 1W Sept.2nd (IHB).

OSPREY Uncommon visitor. A very good year with four records as follows; 1, Apr. 5th (KBB), 1, Apr 14th (KBB), 1 imm, Sept. 17th (CR et al) and 1, Sept.30th (IHB). There have now been 12 records, all since 1993.

KESTREL Common resident. One pair reared two young. CBC located one territory.

HOBBY Common summer visitor. Up to 12 birds (June 7th) were recorded between May 4th and Oct. 8th. CBC located two territories.

WATER RAIL Winter visitor. One was present in the early year and three in the late winter period.

MOORHEN An abundant resident. The maximum count was of 18 on Mar.5th. CBC located 12 territories.

COOT An abundant resident. The maximum count was of 195 on Jan.18th. CBC located 28 territories/pairs.

OYSTERCATCHER Uncommon visitor. The only record was of 1 on Jul.30th (IT), the first since 1995.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded between Mar.23rd and Aug.28th. Three pairs reared a total of 2 young. CBC located one territory.

RINGED PLOVER Summer visitor and passage migrant. Four records all of singletons between Feb.21st and Apr.4th but there was no evidence of breeding being attempted. In autumn there was one on Sept.2nd.

LAPWING Common resident and winter visitor. Eleven pairs attempted to breed rearing a minimum of 6 young. The maximum count was of 480 on Feb. 19th.

DUNLIN Regular passage migrant. Records as follows; 1, Apr.20th, 4, Aug.3rd, 1, Aug.4th, and 2, Aug.8th.

COMMON SNIPE Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Recorded until Apr.9th and from Aug.13th, with a maximum of 13 on Mar.25th.

WHIMBREL Uncommon visitor. Two records of singletons on Apr.26th (IHB) and May 1st (BMA).

REDSHANK Summer visitor and passage migrant. The first returns were on Mar. 11th. Two pairs were present on the reserve until May 19th but although one pair produced a brood they did not survive.

GREENSHANK Regular passage migrant. The best year on record! In spring records were as follows; 1, May 3rd, 5, May 4th, 1, May 5th-6th, 3, Jun.4th. Returns were from Jun.23rd (early date), then 1, Aug.24th, 1, Aug.29th to Sept.3rd, 1, Sept.9th, 1, Sept. 10th, 1, Sept. 14th to 17th, 1, Sept.23rd and 1, Sept.30th.

GREEN SANDPIPER Winter visitor and common passage migrant, Up to three birds were present in the early year. Recorded until Apr.27th and from Jul.13th. Records were mainly of 1 to 3 birds, with a maximum of 4 on Jul. 13th and Aug. 11th.

WOOD SANDPIPER Occasional visitor. One on Jul.29th (CRG) and a well watched individual Aug.8th to 13th (GR et al). Recorded in eight of the last ten years.

COMMON SANDPIPER Common passage migrant. In spring the records were of 1/2 between Apr. 18th and May 25th with a maximum of 5 on May 5th. Returns were from Jul. 15th to Oct.7th (maximum 6 on Aug.26th and Sept.2nd).

RED NECKED PHALAROPE Very rare visitor. One spent 30 minutes on Colebrook Lake North on May 4th before being flushed by a Hobby (KBB)! The first site record.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL Uncommon visitor. An adult in summer plumage was present on Aug. 3rd (IHB).

BLACK HEADED GULL Very common visitor. Recorded in all months except June. The largest count was of 120 on Oct. 14th.

COMMON GULL Common winter visitor. The maximum count was of 126 on Mar. 11th An adult was present from Jul.29th, an early return date.

LESSER BLACK BACKED GULL Very common visitor. Birds began to roost on the Hampshire part of the site from late summer with 220 on Oct.7th.

HERRING GULL Common winter visitor but in reduced numbers. One roosted on Oct. 7th.

YELLOW LEGGED HERRING GULL Regular visitor of annual occurrence. All records relate to single adults on Aug.24th, Aug.20th and Oct.21st (IHB).

GREAT BLACK BACKED GULL Frequent winter visitor with numbers of records declining. All records required for next year.

KITTIWAKE Rare visitor. An adult was present on Oct.30th (IHB) the day after a storm in southern England. The first record since 1987.

COMMON TERN Summer visitor and passage migrant. Recorded from Apr. 19th. Six pairs attempted to breed on Tern Island and all were successful rearing a total of 14 young. This constitutes the best breeding success since breeding began on the site in 1991. Breeding birds and young lingered in the area until Aug. 15th. The only other record was of a juvenile on Sept.20th.

BLACK TERN Regular but uncommon passage migrant. Six were present on May 5th (IHB), 5 on May 5th (BMA) and 4 on May 7th (CJ).

STOCK DOVE Common resident. The maximum count was 40 on Mar. 5th. CBC located two territories.

TURTLE DOVE Infrequent visitor. Three records; 1, May 4th (KBB) and one singing on Jun. 10th and Jul.8th (IHB).

CUCKOO Summer visitor. Recorded from Apr.20th. Up to two singing males held territory on the whole site.

LITTLE OWL Moderately common resident. Breeding was successful. CBC located two territories.

TAWNY OWL Moderately common resident. Breeding was successful with birds present in 1/2 territories.

KINGFISHER Moderately common resident. One pair bred successfully. CBC located one territory.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Uncommon resident. Four records all of singletons, including one on May 27th but there was no evidence of breeding.

WOODLARK Irregular visitor that has bred. One pair bred with success unknown. The third consecutive year that breeding has at least been attempted.

SKYLARK Common resident and winter visitor. At least four singing males held territory. The maximum winter count was of 60 on Dec.28th.

SAND MARTIN Common summer visitor. Recorded between Mar. 18th and Oct.4th. There were 161 nest holes on the new workings on the Hants side of the complex, a record number since recording began.

MEADOW PIPIT Common winter visitor and passage migrant, that has summered. One bird was singing in suitable breeding habitat on Apr. 16th but was not located again.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Moderately common passage migrant that has bred. Singletons recorded in spring on May 3rd and 5th. The only autumn records were of singletons on Sept.16th and 21st.

PIED WAGTAIL Common resident and winter visitor. CBC located four territories.

WHINCHAT Moderately common passage migrant. Only three records; 1, Apr.29th, 1, Sept. 13th and 1, Oct 7th.

STONECHAT Irregular resident and passage migrant. There were no early winter or breeding season records apart from 3 on Mar. 3rd. In the late year recorded from Aug. 19th (max 6, Oct. 14th) with two pairs wintering.

WHEATEAR Moderately common passage migrant. Recorded as follows; 1, Apr. 29th, 1, Apr. 26th , 1, Apr.29th and 1, Sept.9th.

FIELDFARE Common winter visitor. Recorded until Apr.4th and from Nov.4th. Maximum counts were of 197 on Nov.4th.

REDWING Very common winter visitor. Recorded until Apr.22nd (max 200 on Jan.15th) and from Oct. 14th (max 250 on Nov.4th).

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Scarce summer visitor. One singing on Jun. 6th and 16th in suitable breeding habitat.

SEDGE WARBLER Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded from Apr. 16th. Six singing males held territory all in CBC area.

REED WARBLER Moderately common summer visitor. Recorded from May 5th. Four singing males held territory.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Summer visitor. Recorded from May 4th. Up to three singing males held territory.

WHITETHROAT Very common summer visitor. Recorded between Apr. 14th and Sept.2nd. CBC located 19 territories.

GARDEN WARBLER Very common summer visitor. Recorded between Apr.21st and Aug.19th. At least 16 singing males held territory, three in CBC area.

BLACKCAP Summer visitor and occasional winter visitor. Recorded between Mar.25th and Sept. 16th. Twelve singing males held territory, nine located in CBC area.

CHIFFCHAFF Common summer visitor and regular winter visitor. One on Feb.5th and 12th before returning birds from Mar. 11th. Six singing males held territory, four in the CBC area. Last record Sept.30th.

WILLOW WARBLER Very common summer visitor. Recorded from Mar.24th until Sept. 19th. Seven singing males held territory, five located in CBC area.

GOLDCREST Common winter visitor and passage migrant. Up to two singing males held territory. The first breeding season records.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Regular passage migrant which may bred. CBC located one pair and breeding considered probable. The last record was of 1 on Sept.24th.

Abundant resident and winter visitor. CBC located 17 territories. Maximum count of 100 on Nov. 18th.

GREENFINCH Common resident and winter visitor. Three territories, two located in CBC area.

GOLDFINCH Very common resident and winter visitor. CBC located three territories. Maximum count of 45 on Aug.3rd.

SISKIN Common winter visitor. Early year maxima was 120 on Feb. 19th. In the late year the maximum was 100 on Dec.23rd.

LINNET Moderately common resident and winter visitor. The maximum count was 120 on Feb.29th. Three territories, one located in CBC area.

LESSER REDPOLL Winter visitor. Small numbers were present in the early year (max 40, Jan 15th) and in the late winter period (max 50, Dec. 16th).

REED BUNTING Common resident. At least eleven territories, nine located in the CBC area.

BAR HEADED GOOSE Records as follows; 5, Feb.21st, 2, Mar.15th and 6, Nov.4th to 12th.

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Website editor's note: The last page of this table (from Long-tailed Tit onward) seemed to be missing from the published Report and has been reconstructed from the 1999 and 2001 reports.

Following the creation 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.

Recording Area

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, 4 Evesham Walk, Sandhurst, Berks. GU46 0YU

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

Any person visiting the site who wishes to submit dragonfly/damselfly records may do so. Any attributable records are gratefully received. Observers may add their records to the monthly dragonfly sightings sheets posted in both Grove and Colebrook hides.

Alternatively records of a more detailed nature may be submitted at any time direct to the recorder but for preference before the end of October. If submitted after the end of October the data will be logged on to the reserve's database but may be too late for inclusion in the annual report.

Records can be presented in any form that best suits the observer but should include:

All records should be sent to the Recorder Ken Crick, 29 Village Way, Yateley, Hants GU46 7SE. Information on sightings of rare or unusual species would be welcomed by phone (01252 872508).

The contents of the library so far collected are listed below. Three items (marked *) have been added this year.

I would like to request that if anybody has information about the reserve, however small, please could they deposit a copy in the library. I shall be able to copy it and return the originals.

If any body would like to view the information please contact me Steve Bailey on 01276 686615 to make arrangements.