A total of 115 species was recorded this year at Beaumonts, two more than last year.

 

Although escaped from captivity, a Blue-crowned Parakeet was a new species for the park list, and there were several other noteworthy records : in April a Black Woodpecker visited the park on three occasions and a Purple Heron flew over ; two Marsh Warblers were present in late spring, and a Water Rail appeared on the icy edges of the Mare Perchée during a cold day in February.

 

Other interesting records included a Great Egret (which has become more regular in recent years), a Red-footed Falcon and a Siberian Chiffchaff.

 

However several regularly occuring species notable by their absence included Mute Swan, Woodcock, Snipe, Nuthatch and Coal Tit. Once again two declining species, Tree Sparrow and Cirl Bunting, annual until recently, were not recorded.

 

During the spring and autumn a total of 248 hours « skywatching » was made from the Cascade, a 7% reduction on last year. Relatively few large raptors were observed (99 birds, a reduction of 40% on 2015), and the lack of records at the end of August and in early September was remarkable.

 

Over the past few years the rough grassland in the core area of the park (the so-called « Savanna ») has been cordoned off with an electric fence. In the spring, as is now customary, goats and cows were introduced to this area in an effort to control the rapid growth of vegetation, where they remained until November.

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Birding in the mist - the Petite Prairie in late October. (Photo; S.Offord)

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Observers at Parc des Beaumonts in 2016:

 

SC=Suzanne Cox

YF=Yves Fleury-Collet 

MG=Muriel Gelin

TG=Tobias Grey  

SO=Sean Offord

OP=Olivier Plisson  

RP=Roland Paul 

PP=Philippe Pirard

TP=Thomas Puaud 

PM=Philip Redman

PR=Pierre Rousset 

DT=David Thorns  

 

 

SYSTEMATIC LIST  

 

C = Captive (escape)   

E = Summer Visitor   

F = Feral    


H = Winter Visitor   

M = Migrant   

S = Resident




 

 

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Great Cormorant    Phalacrocorax cargo   M

 

Fairly common migrant.

 

In late winter, two « local » birds noted flying south on the 4th and 5th February [PR].

 

In spring, noted on migration on 16 dates from 16th February to 8th May, with a maximum of 167 on 26th March.

 

Observed in autumn for the first time on 31st July. Thereafter noted regularly until 12th November with a maximum of 66 birds flying south on 9th October.

 

 

 

Grey Heron    Ardea cinerea   S M

 

Another rather disappointing year with relatively few records.The species has become rare on site, and observations now concern  individuals or small groups flying over the park.

 

An individual feeding at the Mare Perchée on 6th January [RP].

 

In spring recorded on 12 dates from 27th February to 17th May (maximum of seven birds flying north on 27th March).

 

Noted sporadically on nine occasions in autumn, from 24th July to 16th October.

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Purple Heron    Ardea purpurea   M

 

Rare migrant. One observation in spring.

 

1, 25th April [DT].

 

The bird flew to the north early in the morning. It constitutes only the third record for Beaumonts.

Photo: 25th April, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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Great Egret   Casmerodius albus  M

 

One observation in autumn.

 

2, 5th October [DT].

 

The birds were in active migration, flying south in the early morning. C.albus has now been recorded for five consecutive years which is in keeping with its range expansion throughout northwestern Europe.

 

Photo: 5th October, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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White Stork    Ciconia ciconia   M

 

Migrating birds noted on four dates (three in spring and one in autumn).

 

45, 27th February [DT]  -  2, 13th April [PR]  -  1, 7th May [DT].

 

22, 27th August [DT].

 

Photo: 27th August, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

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Black Stork    Ciconia nigra  M

 

One observation in early autumn.

 

3, 24th July [DT].

 

 

 

Greylag Goose    Anser anser  M

 

Observed on migration on three dates (two in spring and one in autumn).

 

20, 7th February [DT] , 28, 25th February [PR].

 

97, 11th November [DT].

 

 

 

Canada Goose   Branta canadensis  F

 

Observed flying over the park on five dates.

 

2, 3rd March [DT] - 1, 22nd March [DT] – 2, 28th March [DT]  -  1, 10th April [PP] -  6, 15th March [DT].

 

 

 

Mallard    Anas platyrhynchos  S M

 

Another disappointing year. 1-4 birds observed almost daily at the start of the breeding season, from 23rd February to 27th May.

 

Although two birds had established themselves at the Mare Perchée by late March, their attempts at breeding were once again unsuccessful. This is due not only to the irresponsibility of dog-walkers (who leave their un-leashed animals free to enter the pond) but also to the illegal cutting of the reed-bed by persons unknown.

 

Unfortunately the absence of any person of authority on site continues to impact negatively on the well-being of this species which has (miraculously) twice bred successfully in recent years.

 

 

 

Northern Pintail    Anas acuta  H M

Rare migrant. One observation in spring.

 

17, 26th March [DT].

The birds flew rapidly over the park towards the northeast during the afternoon.

 

 

 

Osprey    Pandion haliaetus  M

 

Migrating birds noted on four dates in autumn.

 

1, 10th September [DT]  -  1, 2nd October [DT]  -  1, 5th October [DT]  -  1, 23rd October [DT].

 

 

 

Black Kite    Milvus migrans  M

 

Observed on eight dates (seven in spring and one in autumn).

 

1, 16th April [DT] , 1, 21st April [DT]  -  1, 4th May [DT] , 4, 7th May [DT] , 2, 8th May [PR/DT] , 1, 21st May [PR] , 1, 26th May [PR/DT].

 

1, 24th July [DT].

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Red Kite    Milvus milvus  M

Birds in active migration noted twice in autumn.

2, 24th September [SC/PR/DT]  -  1, 30th October [DT].

 

Photo: 24th September, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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Marsh Harrier    Circus aeruginosus  M

 

Observed flying over the park on eight dates (three in spring and five in autumn). At least 15 birds are involved.

 

1, 28th March [DT]  -  1, 19th April [DT] - 1, 24th April [PR].

 

1, 27th August [DT]  -  6, 18th September [DT] – 1, 25th September [DT] – 1, 27th September [PR]  -  3, 2nd October [DT].

 

 

 

Hen Harrier    Circus cyaneus  M

 

Observed on three dates in autumn.

 

1, 9th October [PR/DT] – 1, 22nd October [SO/DT] – 1, 30th October [PR/DT].

 

 

 

Common Buzzard    Buteo buteo  M

 

Observed on 25 dates (eight in spring and 17 in autumn). About 60 birds are involved.

 

1-2 noted from 26th March to 8th May.  

 

In autumn, observed from 6th August to 5th November with a daily maximum of 10 in active migration on 30th October.

 

It is difficult to assertain the exact figures in spring : two birds were considered to be « local » and were seen on several occasions flying distantly over the Bois de Vincennes. Their behaviour was indicative of breeding in that area, with display-flights noted on 1st May [DT].

 

 

 

 

Honey-Buzzard    Pernis apivorus  M

 

A rather disappointing year with relatively few records. Noted on 11 dates (three in spring and eight in autumn) –only 16 birds were involved in total.

 

4, 7th May - 1, 8th May - 1, 17th May.

 

1, 24th July - 1, 30th July – 2, 12th August – 1, 13th August – 1, 28th August – 1, 10th September – 2, 18th September – 1, 22nd September.

 

 

Photo: 18th September, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

Once again the species showed an attraction for the park in early autumn : for the two birds of 12th August, Pierre Rousset noted : « On site. Circled together overhead. Calls. Appeared to land ». And on 18th September a juvenile arrived low from the north and landed briefly in a tree, only to be quickly dislodged and chased away by the local magpies [DT].

 

 

 

[Unidentified Large Raptors]

 

Two larger raptors were unidentified : 1, 17th April – 1, 27th August.

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Eurasian Sparrowhawk    Accipiter nisus  S

 

Observed regularly (usually 1-3 birds) throughout the year. Breeding confirmed once again in the Bois de Bordure, juveniles first noted here on 16th July [YF].

 

In spring and (especially) autumn, small numbers noted apparently in active migration.

 

Photo: 29th September, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

 

Eurasian Kestrel    Falco tinnunculus  S M

 

Breeds in the immediate vicinity ; 1-3 birds (usually one) observed almost daily.

 

Although the vast majority of records refer to local birds the species is noted sometimes on migration, for example ; 2 flying south during the afternoon on 2nd and 9th October.\

 

 

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Eurasian Hobby    Falco subbuteo E M

 

1-2 birds observed occasionally in spring, summer and autumn.

 

Noted for the first time in spring on 21st April [DT].

 

In late August and early September, observed several times flying

low over the park, towards the Bois de Vincennes, carrying prey.

These records relate to a pair which bred successfully at the nearby

Lac Mimimes (F.Malher, pers comm.).

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Observed for the last time on 2nd October [DT].

 

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Photo: 24th August, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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Peregrine    Falco peregrinus  S M

 

The presence of breeding peregrines in and around Paris has rendered it less of a rarity. Observations refer usually to single birds wandering aimlessly high in the sky.

 

1-2 birds noted on eight dates.

 

1, 5th March [DT] – 2, 28th March [PR/DT] – 2, 10th April [PR/DT] – 1, 23rd April [DT] – 1, 1st May [DT].

 

1, 10th September [DT] – 1, 11th September [PR] – 1, 18th September [DT].

 

 

 

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Merlin    Falco columbarius  M

 

One observation in spring.  

 

1, 12th April [DT].

 

 

 

 

Red-footed Falcon    Falco vespertinus   M

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Rare in the region. One observation in spring.  

 

1, 21st May [DT].

 

The bird flew high to the north during the afternoon. The identification was made with reference to a series of photographs and discussion with other birders.

 

 

 

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Water Rail    Rallus aquaticus   M

 

Observed on two dates (one in spring and one in autumn).

 

1, 27th February [DT]  -  1, 14th September [PR]

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A rare bird at Beaumonts, these constitute only the second and

third records. The first bird arrived during a period of cold weather

and spent the day on site, occasionally glimpsed on the icy edges

of the Mare Perchée or dashing between the two reed-beds.

The calls of the second bird were heard as it moved around the

reeds at the Mare de Bas.

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Photo: 27th February, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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Common Moorhen    Gallinula chloropus  S

 

Common resident ; 1-8 birds observed regularly throughout the year.

 

Copulation observed at the Mare Perchée during the early morning of 12th April [DT]. Breeding confirmed at both ponds :

 

A nest found at the Mare de Bas on 1st May with a newly hatched chick seen there the following day [PR]. Three chicks noted on 11th May [DT].

 

At the Mare Perchée, a chick noted for the first time on 7th June [PR]. Six chicks present on 26th June [PR].

 

Unfortunately the healthy population of rats at the Mare Perchée is probably responsible for the loss of several chicks.

 

 

 

Northern Lapwing    Vanellus vanellus  M H

 

Observed flying over the park on nine dates (one in winter, two in spring and six in autumn).

 

12, 16th January [PR].

 

160, 12th March [DT] – 1, 26th March [PR/DT].

 

34, 5th October [DT] – 9, 22nd October [SO/DT] – 103, 23rd October [SO/DT] – 8, 30th October [SC/PR/DT] – 3, 1st November [PR/DT] – 65, 11th November [DT].

 

 

 

Golden Plover    Pluvalis aricaria  H M

 

Observed flying over the park twice in autumn.

 

15, 11th November [DT] – 39, 12th November [DT].

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Green Sandpiper    Tringa ochropus   M

 

Observed twice in active migration (once in spring and once in autumn).

 

1, 16th April [DT].

 

1, 26th July [DT].  

 

Photo: 26th July, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

 

Black-headed Gull    Chroicocephalus ridibundus   S M

 

Small numbers (generally 1-10 birds) seen flying over the park regularly in winter, early spring and in autumn. Irregular and rather uncommon from May to late August.

 

 

 

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Mediterranean Gull    Larus melanocephalus   M

 

Uncommon migrant. Three records in spring.  

 

3, 10th April [PR/DT] – 2, 19th April [DT] – 2, 20th April [DT].

 

 

Photo: 10th April, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

 

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Common Gull    Larus canus  M H

 

Uncommon winter visitor and migrant. Observed on four dates at the beginning of the year.

 

1, 9th January [PR] – 1, 16th Janvier [PR] – 2, 26th March [DT] – 1, 28th March [DT].

 

 

 

Herring Gull    Larus argentatus  S M

 

Seen flying over the park irregularly in small numbers in winter, spring and autumn.

 

 

 

 

Yellow-legged Gull    Larus michahellis  H M

 

Probably under-recorded due to the difficulty of identifying distant large gulls in flight.

 

Another good year ; observed on 25 dates (14 in spring and 11 in autumn).

 

Small numbers (1-12 birds) noted in spring flying over towards the northeast, from 7th March to 27th May.

 

Photo: 27th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

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In autumn recorded from 31st July to 6th November, with a maximum of nine on 6th November.

 

 

 

Lesser Black-backed Gull    Larus fuscus  S M

 

Relatively common – noted in small numbers in winter, spring and autumn.

 

 

 

Common Tern    Sterna hirundo  M

 

Observed twice in spring.

 

1, 26th March [DT] – 1, 26th April [DT].

 

 

 

Rock Dove    Columba livia  S

 

Common resident, seen daily.

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Stock Dove    Columba oenas  S M

 

Breeding in the immediate vicinity, a relatively common resident seen in flight (usually 1-6 birds) throughout the year. As usual, small groups noted regularly flying to the east (especially in February/March).

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2-3 birds noted sometimes on the roofs of buildings outside the park on rue Paul Doumer. Breeding possible but unconfirmed ; notable on-site presence in late April and early May with display flights observed over the Bois de Bordure on 3rd May [DT].

 

Photo: 25th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

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Daily maximum of 40 observed flying south on 12th November (a day equally notable for the migration of woodpigeons). 

 

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Common Wood-Pigeon    Columba palumbus  S M

 

Common breeding resident – seen daily. 
Small numbers on site supplemented by local movements of birds flying over the park in diverse directions. In general birds fly to the northeast in the mornings and return towards Paris later in the afternoons.

 

From the end of June groups comprising adults and juveniles regularly noted on the lawns in the northern section of the park. 



 

Flocks on migration occasionally noted in late autumn, with a maximum of c330 on 31st October [DT].

 

 

 

 

Collared Dove    Streptopelia decaocto  S

 

Relatively common resident. 1-2 birds seen regularly in flight or sometimes perched in trees on site at the Mare Perchee or inside the re-cycling plant.

 

Breeding probable but unconfirmed.

 

 

European Turtle-Dove    Streptopelia turtur  M

 

Uncommon migrant. This was an excellent year with seven spring records, including three sightings of birds landing inside the park.

 

1, 14th April [DT] – 1, 19th April [DT] – 1, 21st April [PR] – 1, 26th April [DT] – 1, 5th May [SC/YF/DT] – 1, 8th May [DT] – 1, 10th May [DT]. 

 

The record of 14th April is notably early.    

 

 

Photo: 5th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

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Tawny Owl    Strix aluco  S

 

Rather rare and irregular at Beaumonts, probably overlooked and under-recorded.

 

Individuals heard on two occasions in autumn.

 

1, 25th August [YF]  -  1, 10th September [PR].

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Short-eared Owl    Asio flammeus  H M

One observation in autumn.

1, 4th November [DT].

The bird flew northwards over the park in the early morning.

 

 

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Common Swift    Apus apus  E M   

 

Common in summer – observed every day. Breeds in the immediate vicinity.

 

First recorded in spring on 14th April [PR].

 

Roughly 40 birds noted in the skies during May ; maximum of 200 on 23rd July [DT].

 

The local populations seemed to have deserted the area by 30th July, the individuals and small groups noted that day appearing to be in active migration [DT].

 

Last observed on 8th September [DT].    

 

 

 

Rose-ringed Parakeet    Psittacula krameri  F

 

Relatively common – numbers have increased sharply over the past few years. Now breeding on site in the Parc Mabille, with birds entering nest-cavities on 23rd April [DT].

 

Single birds and/or small flocks seen or heard regularly throughout the year flying noisily over the park, presumably to and from breeding colonies at Parc Montreau and Roissy.  

 

For the first time, small groups seen to accompany and mob other species (notably Eurasian Sparrowhawk and Grey Heron) as they fly over the park [DT].

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Blue-crowned Parakeet    Aratinga acuticaudata  F

 

One observation in spring.

 

1, 8th May [PR/DT].

 

A first for the park - the bird was present throughout the morning, calling

loudly and frequently from the trees surrounding the Savanna.

 

Photo: 8th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

 

Budgerigar     Melopsittacus undulatus  F

 

One observation in autumn.

 

1, 23rd October [DT].

 

 

 

Cockateil    Nymphicus hollandicus  F

 

One observation in autumn.

 

1, 8th October [DT].

 

 

 

Green Woodpecker    Picus viridis  S

 

At least one couple breeding in or near the park – seen or heard almost daily throughout the year (although more discreet in late July).

 

 

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Black Woodpecker    Dryocopus martius S

 

Rare at Beaumonts. In identical fashion to last year  an individual visited the park briefly on several April mornings. Presumably this is the same bird as in 2015, and a wanderer from nearby Bois de Vincennes. It was located eventually thanks to its far-carrying calls.  

 

1, 7th & 8th & 18th & 21st April [DT].

 

Photo: 18th April, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

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Great Spotted Woodpecker    Dendrocopos major  S

 

At least one resident pair breeding in or near the park – heard or seen almost daily although, like Green Woodpecker, more discreet in late July.

 

 

 

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker    Dendrocopos minor   S

 

A discreet resident, perhaps breeding inside the park. The species has become scarcer over recent years. Singe birds noted irregularly on 10 dates, most of which occuring in the latter half of the year.

 

1, 29th March – 1, 5th & 12th April – 1, 9th July – 1, 16th & 21st & 22nd September – 1, 1st & 16th October – 1, 6th November

 

 

 

Eurasian Skylark    Alauda arvensis  M

 

Seen flying over the park. Fairly common migrant in spring and (especially) autumn.

 

Noted on three dates spring from 18th-26th March, with a maximum of 16 on 18th March.

 

Observed on eight dates in autumn, from 16th October to 12th November, with a peak of 207 on 16th October.

 

 

 

Wood Lark    Lullula arborea  M

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A regular but uncommon passage migrant.

 

A disappointing year – observed only twice :

 

1, 23rd March [DT].

 

1, 16th October [PR/DT].

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Bank Swallow (Sand Martin)    Riparia riparia  E M

 

Rather uncommon but regular passage migrant in spring

and autumn. 



 

In spring, 1-4 noted on six dates from 26th March to 9th May.

 

In autumn 1-3 birds noted on seven dates from 23rd July to

11th September.

 

Photo: 5th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

 

Barn Swallow   Hirundo rustica  E M

 

Common migrant in spring and autumn. Rarely observed in summer.   

 

First seen in spring on 27th March [DT]. Up to 14 birds recorded regularly thereafter, up to and including 26th May.

 

Not recorded in June and July.

 

Noted regularly on migration in autumn from 7th August to 16th October, with a small peak of 30 on 27th August.

 

 

 

Northern House-Martin   Delichon urbicum  E M

 

Fairly common passage migrant in spring and autumn. Small numbers noted irregularly in summer.



 

First recorded in spring on 14th April [DT]. Thereafter up to 16 birds noted regularly up to 26th May.

 

Observed regularly in autumn from 24th July to 2nd October with a peak of 42 on 1st October.

 

 

 

Meadow Pipit   Anthus pratensis  M

 

A common migrant in spring and (especially) autumn.

 

Noted in spring from 27th February to 27th April with a small peak of 35 on 13th April.

 

Absent in summer. First recorded in autumn on 22nd September. Small numbers noted regularly thereafter up to 12th November with a peak of 60 on 16th October.

 

 

 

Tree Pipit    Anthus trivialis  M

 

A relatively common migrant in spring and autumn.

 

First recorded in spring on 10th April [DT]. Thereafter 1-2 birds on 4 dates up to 5th May.  

 

Absent in summer. First noted in autumn on 24th August ; small numbers thereafter until 6th October [DT].

 

 

 

Water Pipit   Anthus spinoletta  M

 

Uncommon passage migrant ; probably under-recorded.

 

One observation in autumn.

 

1, 23rd October [SO/DT].

 

 

 

White Wagtail   Motacilla alba  M

 

Fairly common passage migrant in spring and autumn.

 

First recorded on 27th February. Thereafter noted in small numbers up to 10th April, with a notable peak on 72 on 23rd March [DT].

 

Absent in summer. Observed regularly in autumn from 5th October to 12th November, with a maximum of 43 on 16th October [PR/DT].

 

 

 

Western Yellow Wagtail   Motacilla flava flava  M

 

Relatively common migrant in spring and autumn.

 

First recorded in spring on 10th April [DT]. Then noted in small numbers (1-5 birds) up to 6th May.

 

1-15 birds observed on 10 dates in autumn from 24th August to 13th September.

 

 

 

Grey Wagtail   Motacilla cinerea  S M

 

Rather uncommon non-breeding resident and migrant.

 

One (occasionally two) noted on site during the second half of the year from 1st August to 6th November, usually at the re-cycling plant or flying between there and the town center.

 

1 obviously migrating south on 1st September [DT]. 

 

 

 

Winter Wren    Troglodytes troglodytes S



 

Common breeding resident – usually 1-4 birds seen or heard daily throughout the year. 





 

 

 

Dunnock   Prunella modularis  S M



 

Common breeding resident ; 1-4 birds seen almost daily. As usual many birds singing during the second half of February and in March, making them much easier to see (far more discreet in summer).  





 

 

 

European Robin   Erithacus rubecula  S M



 

Common breeding resident ; 1-4 birds seen almost daily.
Like the preceding species, discreet during the breeding season.

 

Juvenile noted on 6th August [DT]

 

 

 

 

Common Nightingale   Luscinia megarhynchos  E M

 

A disappointing year in comparison with previous years because of alterations made to the park in late 2014 – there is no longer the  required breeding habitat inside the park.

 

Singing birds noted on just two dates in spring ; the 26th April and 25th May [DT].

 

Exceptionally, not recorded in autumn.

 

 

 

Black Redstart    Phoenicurus ochruros  M

 

Rather irregular and uncommon migrant. Absent in summer, although breeding in the immediate vicinity.

 

1-2 birds noted on seven dates (two in spring and five in autumn).

 

1. 30th March – 1, 5th April.

 

2, 25th August – 1, 6th September – 2, 11th September – 1, 18th September – 1, 9th October.

 

As usual the autumn birds were observed from a distance, as they perched on buildings outside and to the northeast of the park.

 

 

 

Common Redstart   Phoenicurus phoenicurus  M

 

Uncommon migrant.

 

Not recorded in spring this year. Observed on six dates in autumn.  

 

2, 6th September – 1-3, 14th September  -  1, 16th September – 2, 17th September – 3, 18th September – 1, 20th September.

 

 

 

Whinchat   Saxicola rubetra  M

 

Uncommon migrant – observed on four dates in autumn.

 

1, 30th August [DT] – 1, 7th & 9th & 10th September [DT].

 

 

 

 

European Stonechat   Saxicola rubicola   M

 

Uncommon migrant. Observed on three dates (one in spring and

two in autumn).

 

1, 27th February [DT].

 

1, 5th October [PR] – 1, 23rd October [SO/DT].

 

Photo: 5th October, 2016 (P.Rousset)

 

 

 

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Ring Ouzel   Turdus torquatus  M

 

A regular but uncommon passage migrant.

 

Noted on eight dates (six in spring and two in autumn).

 

2, 11th April [DT] – 1, 12th April [DT] – 2, 13th April [DT] – 1+, 14th April [DT] – 1, 15th April [DT] – 2, 21st April [DT].

 

1, 8th October [DT] , 2, 16th October [PR].

 

 

 

Eurasian Blackbird   Turdus merula  S M

 

Common breeding resident. Small numbers (usually 1-5) seen or heard daily.

 

Juvenile noted on 27th May [PR].

 

Notably absent in late September/early October.

 

 

 

Fieldfare   Turdus pilaris  H M

 

Rather uncommon migrant and winter visitor.

 

Observed on 12 dates (seven in spring and five in autumn).

 

1, 24th February – 2, 18th March – 8, 23rd March – 2, 24th March – 4, 12th April – 2, 13th April – 1, 30th April [DT].

 

34, 31st October – 16, 1st November – 4, 2nd November – 1, 4th November – 5, 6th November.

 

The bird on 30th April was rather late.

 

 

 

Song Thrush   Turdus philomelos  S M

 

Common breeding resident, although rather discreet (about three breeding pairs estimated). Numbers increase in spring and autumn with  passage migrants.

 

Fewer birds noted in active migration in comparaison with earlier years. In spring small peak of 30 on 24th March. In autumn (late September to mid-November), peak of 53 on 5th October.

 

 

 

Redwing   Turdus iliacus  H M

 

Fairly common migrant – irregular in winter.

 

Noted quite regularly in spring from 24th February to 29th March, with a maximum of 103 on 23rd March [DT].

 

Observed for the first time in autumn on 5th October. Noted thereafter up to 12th November with a peak of 73 on 23rd October (when redwings appeared to be the only birds flying south through the early morning mist [SO/DT]).

 

 

 

Mistle Thrush   Turdus viscivorus  S M

 

Relatively common resident, 1-3 birds noted regularly throughout the year. Breeding probably in or near the park.

 

Little sign of active migration this year – noted just twice in spring (7th & 24th March) and in autumn (5th & 16th October).

 

 

 

Eurasian Reed-Warbler   Acrocephalus scirpaceus  E M

 

Irregular summer visitor and passage migrant. Breeding confirmed at the Mare Perchée, with adults and juveniles noted on 23rd July [DT].

 

Very discreet in spring. Barely audible singing heard from diverse areas of the park (away from the Mare Perchée) on seven occasions from 5th – 22nd May. Noted for the first time at the reed-bed on 1st June.

 

1-2 observed regularly during August and September. Recorded for the last time on 24th September [DT]. 

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Marsh Warbler   Acrocephalus palustris E M

 

Very uncommon migrant. An excellent year with 1-2 birds seen or heard regularly from 21st May to 26th June. Breeding unconfirmed.

 

1, 21st & 22nd May [DT] – 2, 24th & 25th May [DT] – 1-2, 26th & 27th May [PR/DT] – 2, 1st June [DT] – 1, 7th & 17th & 26th June [PR].

 

Photo: 21st May, 2016 (D.Thorns) 

 

 

 

 

 

Garden Warbler   Sylvia borin  E M

 

Summer visitor and migrant. One breeding pair estimated.

 

Observed for the first time in spring on 23rd April. 1-2 birds then noted regularly at the Petite Prairie, with two birds carrying nest material on 8th May [DT].

 

Last seen on 16th September.

 

 

  

Blackcap    Sylvia atricapilla  H E M

 

Common breeding summer visitor and migrant ; 1-12 birds seen or heard daily. 

 

Not recorded in winter this year.

 

First noted in spring on 12th March. Juveniles seen regularly in early August at the Mare de Bas [DT].  

 

Rather feeble presence in autumn, and remarkably discreet or absent during the first half of October (as was the case in 2015).  

 

Last recorded on 22nd October [DT]. 

 

 

 

Lesser Whitethroat    Sylvia curruca  E M

 

Uncommon migrant – has not bred at Beaumonts since 2010.

 

An individual present at the Petite Prairie for five consecutive days in autumn.

 

1, 8th–12th September [DT].

 

 

 

Greater Whitethroat    Sylvia communis  E

 

Fairly common summer visitor, usually breeding on site. Fewer birds noted than in previous years –one breeding pair probable.

 

First recorded in spring on 23rd April [DT].

 

Easy to observe in late April and in early May, with frequent song and display flights around the Petite Prairie and Compost. Two birds noted on 7th June [PR].

 

Recorded twice in July including a singing bird at the southern end of the park on 2nd July [DT]. In autumn, 1-2 birds observed almost daily from 20th August to 20th September.

 

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Melodious Warbler    Hippolais polyglotta  E M

 

Uncommon migrant – has not bred in the park since 2012.

 

A good year for this species with a singing male present throughout

May. Breeding unlikely.

 

Seen or heard daily at the Petite Prairie from 1st – 27th May [PR/DT].

Noted on three dates in June : the 7th [PR] , 12th [PP] and 17th [PR].

 

The severe cutting of its traditional breeding area by the authorities

in early 2013 has had a negative impact on the well-being of this

species in the park.

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Photo: 11th May, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

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Willow Warbler    Phylloscopus trochilus  E M

 

Rather uncommon migrant – does not breed at Beaumonts.

 

First noted in spring on 27th March [PP]. Thereafter 1-2 birds noted fairly regularly up to 6th May.

 

1-3 observed on 17 dates in autumn from 9th August. Last noted on 22nd September [PR].

 

 

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Common Chiffchaff   Phylloscopus collybita E M H

 

Common in summer – observed every day.   

 

1-2 birds present in winter at the beginning and end of the year :

1st, 2nd, 4th and 9th January [PR/DT] – 6th February [DT] – 17th

December [DT].

 

Up to 8 noted daily during spring (from 16th February) and summer.

Juveniles noted on 23rd July [DT].

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Rather feeble presence in autumn – small numbers daily up to 2nd

November.

 

Photo: 16th April, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

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[ Siberian Chiffchaff  Phylloscopus collybita tristis ] M H

 

Rare migrant and winter visitor. Observed on three dates in late autumn.

 

1, 23rd October [DT] – 1, 1st November [PR/DT] – 1, 2nd November [DT].

 

Two different individuals are probably involved, each located because of their distinctive calls. The October bird was feeding close to the ground by the ditch in the Petite Praire ; that in November showed an affinity to the reed-bed at the Mare Perchée where it was observed several times.  

 

 

 

Goldcrest   Regulus regulus  S M

 

Rather uncommon resident, probably breeding on site in the northern part of the park.

 

Small numbers observed irregularly throughout the year.  

 

 

 

Firecrest    Regulus ignicapillus  S M

 

Rather uncommon resident – breeding possible but unconfirmed.

 

Present on site at the beginning of the year. 1-2 singing birds observed several times from 8th March to 5th April [PR/DT]. A apparently bonded pair was observed on 1st April [PR].

 

Not recorded from 6th April to 27th August.

 

1-3 birds noted fairly regularly in autumn up to 1st November.

 

 

 

Spotted Flycatcher   Muscicapa striata  M

 

Uncommon but regular passage migrant. Observed on four dates (one in spring and three in autumn).

 

1, 28th April [DT].

 

2, 10th September [DT] – 1, 11th September [DT] – 1, 18th September [DT].

 

 

 

Pied Flycatcher    Ficedula hypoleuca  M

 

Fairly common passage migrant, although rare in spring. Observed on 17 dates, all but one in autumn.   

 

1, 6th May [DT].

 

1, 20th & 21st & 28th & 31st August – 2+, 3rd & 4 & 10th & 11th & 13th & 18th September – 1, 19th-22nd September – 1, 24th September – 1, 1st October. 

 

 

 

Eurasian Great Tit    Parus major  S M



 

Common breeding resident – usually 1-10 birds seen daily.

 

 

 

Eurasian Blue Tit    Cyanistes caeruleus  S M



 

Common breeding resident, although slightly less numerous than p.major - usually 1-4 birds seen daily.

 

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Crested Tit    Lophophanes cristatus   S M

 

Rather rare at Beaumonts – bred successfully in 2015.  

 

Two observations in autumn.

 

1, 3rd & 7th September [DT].

 

Photo: 3rd September, 2016 (D.Thorns) 

 

 

 

 

 

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Marsh Tit   Parus palustris  S

 

Rather uncommon. 1-2 birds seen or heard irregularly throughout the year.

 

An apparently bonded pair observed several times in the same area along the Jean Moulin entrance path, between 6th February and 7th March [DT]. Breeding behaviour noted on 23rd April [DT].

 

 

 

Long-tailed Tit   Aegithalos caudatus  S

 

Fairly common resident ; up to 15 noted regularly throughout the year.  

 

Breeding confirmed : carriage of nest-material observed on 24th April, and adults feeding young on 14th May [DT].

 

 

 

Short-toed Treecreeper    Certhia brachydactyla  S

 

Breeding resident (at least two pairs estimated). Single birds seen or heard irregularly throughout the year.

 

 

 

Common Magpie    Pica pica  S



 

Common breeding resident – usually 5-20 birds seen daily.





 

 

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Eurasian Jay    Garrulus glandarius  S M



 

Fairly common breeding resident. 1-3 birds seen daily.



 

 

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Eurasian Jackdaw    Corvus monedula  H M

 

Uncommon. 1-2 birds observed flying over the park on eight dates.

 

1, 9th January [PR] – 1, 18th March [DT] – 2, 24th April [DT] – 2, 1st May [DT] – 1, 21st May [PR/DT].

 

2, 5th October [DT] – 1, 16th October [PR/DT] – 2, 12th November [DT].

 

 

 

Rook    Corvus frugilegus  M

 

A rather uncommon migrant. Records typically involve small, loose groups of less than 10 birds flying purposefully overhead. Noted on 11 dates (five in spring and six in autumn).

 

7, 24th February – 1, 10th March – 2, 14th & 22nd March – 1, 24th March.

 

1, 9th & 22nd October – 4, 23rd October – 1, 30th October – 1, 1st November – 4, 11th November  

 

 

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Carrion Crow    Corvus corone  S

 

Common breeding resident. Usually 5-10 seen daily.

 

A large group of roughly 40 birds on site on the 8th March [DT]. 

 

 

 

European Starling    Sturnus vulgaris  S M

 

Common resident, breeding inside the park. Small numbers noted daily.

 

Breeding confirmed : birds observed carrying food for nestlings, flying back and forth between the northern field and the woodland, on 30th April [DT].

 

Almost absent in June and July, and few observed in August. Increase in numbers apparent mid-September with roughly 50 birds gathering on the surrounding buildings, or on the large crane outside (and to the northeast of) the park.

 

In November, larger numbers sometimes noted in groups, apparently migrating high to the west ; for example, c110 on the 1st, and 179 on the 12th [DT].

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Eurasian Golden Oriole   Oriolus oriolus M



 

Very uncommon but regular passage migrant. Singing males observed

on three dates in spring.

 

1, 20th April [DT] – 1, 29th April [DT] – 1, 22nd May [DT].

 

Photo: 20th April, 2016 (D.Thorns) 

 

 

 

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House Sparrow    Passer domesticus S



 

Fairly common resident breeding near the park; 1-4 birds seen fairly regularly.

 

 

 

Chaffinch    Fringilla coelebs  S M

 

Fairly common resident.

 

Singing regularly heard from the northern field from April to June – discreet and infrequently seen in summer.

 

Common migrant : in spring, small numbers observed flying north from 16th February to 22nd April with a peak of 244 on 23rd March [DT].

 

Active migration noted in autumn from 1st October to 12th November, with a peak of 341 on 16th October [PR/DT].

 

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Brambling    Fringilla montifringilla  H M

 

Uncommon but regular migrant and winter visitor.  

 

Observed on nine dates (seven in spring and two in autumn).

 

3, 12th March – 1+, 22nd March – 16+, 23rd March – 1, 24th March – 1+, 26th March – 1, 29th March – 1, 10th April.

 

1, 28th October – 2, 31st October.

 

 

Photo: 26th March, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

Eurasian Linnet    Carduelis cannabina  S M

 

Fairly common migrant noted on passage in spring and autumn.


 

First recorded in spring on 22nd March. Up to six noted almost daily thereafter until 9th May.

 

Rather feeble presence in autumn : 1-18 noted on five dates from 8th October to 12th November.

 

Breeding possible in or near the park : two birds noted frequently (and landing on site) from 10th – 29th April [DT].

 

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Common Redpoll   Carduelis flammea  H M

 

Uncommon winter visitor visitor and passage migrant.

 

Noted flying over the park on two dates in spring :

 

1, 10th & 29th April [DT].

 

 

 

European Goldfinch   Carduelis carduelis  S M

 

Relatively common resident, breeding in or near the park.  

 

Small numbers noted irregularly throughout the year.

 

Birds apparently migrating noted in spring : 1-4 on 7 dates from 18th March to 24th May.

 

A group of roughly 15 birds, including juveniles, observed feeding on site (especially in the Savanna) on several occasions from 10th -27th September.

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European Greenfinch   Chloris chloris  S M

 

Common resident, breeding in or near the park. 1-5 birds seen regularly

throughout the year. More discreet in spring and summer.  

 

Maximum of 10 noted on 1st March [DT].

 

An individual photographed in August was remarkable for the extensive

areas of viral warts on its legs.

 

Photo: August, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

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Eurasian Siskin   Spinus spinus  H M

 

Not recorded in winter this year – small numbers noted on migration in spring and autumn.

 

In spring observed on eight dates in spring, from 23rd February to 22nd April.

 

Recorded in autumn from 5th-30th October, with a maximum of 32 on 16th October [PR/DT].

 

 

 

 

European Serin   Serinus serinus  S M  

 

Relatively common resident, probably breeding in or near the park.

 

Feeble presence in winter at the start of the year : 1, 4th & 5th February [PR].

 

Observed less frequently than in previous years. In spring noted from 17th March to 8th May, with a singing male at the Compost on 16th and 17th April [DT].

 

Not recorded in summer (9th May-27th August).

 

Feeble presence at the end of the year ; noted on just three dates (28th August, 16th October and 11th November).

 

 

 

 

Eurasian Bullfinch   Pyrrhula pyrrhula  S

 

Discreet resident, observed less frequently than in previous years. Recorded on six dates. Breeding unlikely.

 

1, 12th & 21st January  -  1, 7th & 22nd April  -  1, 9th October  -  1, 11th November.

 

 

 

 

Hawfinch    Coccothraustes coccothraustes  H M

 

Uncommon migrant and winter visitor.

 

Unusually, not recorded in the latter half of the year. Observed on nine dates (one in winter and eight in spring).

 

1, 25th January [PR].

 

1, 17th March [DT] – 2, 24th March [DT] – 1, 5th & 11th April [DT] – 2, 17th May [DT] – 1, 22nd May [DT] – 2, 25th May [DT] – 2, 26th May [PR/DT].

 

Breeding perhaps possible in or near the park – the birds in May were apparently a bonded pair.

 

 

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Reed Bunting   Schoeniclus schoeniclus  H M

 

Uncommon and irregular in winter. Fairly common passage migrant in spring and autumn.

 

First noted in spring on 27th February. 1-6 thereafter on eight dates up to 3rd May.

 

As in 2015, relatively few records in autumn : 1-4 observed on eight dates, from 16th October to 12th November.

 

Photo: 26th March, 2016 (D.Thorns)

 

 

 

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Corn Bunting    Emberiza calandra  M

 

Uncommon migrant. Observed flying over the park once in spring.

 

1, 23rd March [DT].

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