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126 species were identified in 2020, an excellent total and 16 more than in the previous year. 

 

No less than five new species for the park were recorded: Bar-tailed Godwit, Pallid Harrier,  Wood Sandpiper, Little Grebe and Spotted Crake.

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These "firsts" aside, several uncommon species were noted such as Little Bittern, Black Stork, Common Crane, Eurasian Curlew, Wryneck, Wood Warbler and Ortolan Bunting. In late autumn, Common Kingfisher and Grey Heron both reappeared on site after several years of absence. 

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panoramic view to the southwest - the Eiffel Tower is just visible left of center

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However a few "usual" species were notable by their absence, such as Marsh Tit, Coal Tit and Lesser Whitethroat. For the second year running, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was observed only once - it is perhaps worth noting that the decline of this species appears to be in correlation with the recent colonisation of Rose-ringed Parakeet. 

 

It was a good year for migrating raptors: in all 463 hours of skywatching were made from the cascade (twice as much as last year) with a total of 233 individuals noted (+ 187%).

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Nocturnal sound recordings, conducted for the second consecutive year, made it possible to record some species which would have otherwise gone unnoticed - they undoubtedly played a key role in achieving such an important year list total. 

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Of course the year was notable for the global pandemic Covid 19, which effectively enabled a greater-than-usual observer coverage of the site. However, contrary to the opinions of the local park visitors, the periods of confinement did not appear to have any beneficial effects on the  avifauna. If anything the opposite was true - the park had never been as populated by people as it was during lockdown ! Consequently supplementary pressure was put upon the so-called protected areas of the park such as the central prairie and the Mare Perchée. Indeed it was depressing to see so many families climbing over the protective barriers and ignoring the information boards, inciting their children to collect tadpoles from the pond and letting their dogs loose to cause havoc - such is human nature... 

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Enclosed by an electric fence, the central prairie saw once again the introduction of cows and goats during several months (until late November) with the objective to control the growth of vegetation. 

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The prairie in September - the goat, affectionally known as "Gros Bêta", is the clear leader of the pack...

 

For a third consecutive year it is pertinent to mention the efficient management of the park by Est Ensemble. The year was notable for several positive measures implemented to change the landscape, in parallel with a clear communication of the objectives: in early August information boards were erected in strategic areas, followed in October by significant structural changes to the Mare Perchée with the construction of a second (smaller) pond. In early November several diseased trees were cut down for reasons of public safety. 

 

 

 

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Observers at parc des Beaumonts in 2020 :

 

Suzanne Cox (SC)

Emmanuel Du Cherimont (ED)

Antoine Dusart (AD)

Yoann, Lilian et Baptiste Galle (YG)

Isabelle Giraud (IG)

Remi Jugieux (RJ)

Alexis Lamek

Maité Lanc (ML)

Olivier Laporte (OL)

Alban Larousse (AL)

Gael Martin

Isabelle Merle

Guillaume Normand(GN)

Philippe Pirard (PP)

Thomas Puaud 

Philip Redman

David Rosane (DR)

Pierre Rousset (PR)

David Thorns (DT)

Anne Lisbeth Tollanes (LT) 

 

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Unless stated otherwise, referenced observations made by DT only.

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SYSTEMATC LIST

 

C = Captive (escape)   

E = Summer Visitor   

F = Feral    

H = Winter Visitor   

M = Migrant   

S = Resident

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Common Quail   Coturnix coturnix   M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration on seven dates in spring.

 

23 April  (1)-

 

17 May (1)-                                            20 May  (1)-                                       25 May (1)

 

2 June (1)                                               3 June (1)                                            13 June (1) 

 

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Little Grebe   Tachybaptus ruficollis  M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration on three dates in spring. 

 

25 March (1)-                                          8 April (1)-                                       21 May (1)- 

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These are the first records for Beaumonts.  

 

 

 

 

 

Cormorant   Phalacrocorax carbo   S M

 

Spring migration noted on seven dates from 15

February to 29 April, with a maximum of 46 on 16 April. 

 

Observed migrating in autumn for the first time on 13 

August. Noted thereafter on 28 dates until 8 November, with

a peak count of 299 on 15 October [OL/IG/DR/DT].

 

Photo: 14 October

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Cormorants appear to be well established at the nearby Lac Daumesnil and apparently local birds are increasingly observed during and outside migration periods. 

 

 

 

Little Bittern   Ixobrychus minutus  M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration on four dates (two in spring and two in autumn). 

 

Juin les 2 (1)                                                          3 (1)  

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Août le 15 (1) – septembre le 6 (1)  

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Grey Heron  Ardea cinerea  S M

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Quite an optomistic year for the heron which, after a long period of absence, returned to fish once more at the Mare Perchée. It was noted here several times in early October when the pond was an attractive prospect, being apparently full of tiny fish and encircled by a wall of reeds offering shade and protection from the usual distrubances.

 

Photo: 5 October

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However the bird was nevertheless a regular target of harrassment by the local magpies and crows and, after the cutting of the reedbed by the authorities in late October, its departure was not surprising.

 

This exceptional appearance notwithstanding, there were, as in previous years, relatively few records, observations consisting generally of individuals or occasionally small groups flying high overhead. 

 

Migrating birds were observed on five dates in spring: 1-2 noted between 4 March and 19 May. In autumn, noted on 11 dates from 10 September - 17 October, with a peak of 10 on 17 October [IG/DR/DT/LT].

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Great Egret   Ardea alba   M

 

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

 

3 on 5 April. 

 

1 on 8 and 21 September  -  4 on 9 October, 1 on 12th, 3

on 15th [IG/DT], 2 on 19th and 1 on 23rd [IG/DT].

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Photo: 23 October

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The bird on 23 October, flying to the southwest, was "escorted" by a group of Rose-ringed Parakeets throughout its journey. This behaviour by the parakeets has been observed on other occasions when Grey Herons fly overhead. 

 

A. alba is now almost guaranteed to be seen at Beaumonts each year migrating over the park, which is in keeping with its expansion in northwestern Europe. 

 

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White Stork   Ciconia ciconia  M

 

Observed migrating over the park on seven occasions (once in spring and six in autumn).

 

1 on 17 May.

 

9 on 13 August  -  5 on 1st September, 27 on 2nd  -  18 on 14 October, 9 on 15th [IG/DR/DT], 1 on 22nd.

 

It is reasonable to suppose that the flock of 18 birds which flew over at 14h50 on 14 October is the same as was observed five hours previously at Lèches (77), some 34 Km northeast of Beaumonts as the stork flies. Several of these birds were ringed [Picard Gregory - https://www.faune-iledefrance.org/index.php?m_id=54&mid=122234 ]

 

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Black Stork   Ciconia nigra  M

 

Observed migrating over the park once in spring.  

 

1 on 20 May.

 

The bird flew high to the east, late in the afternoon. 

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Canada Goose   Branta canadensis  S

 

Flyovers. Noted on three dates. 

 

1 on 19 April  -  2 on 2 May.

 

2 on 14 November.

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Mallard   Anas platyrhynchos  S M

 

A pair observed regularly at the Mare Perchée from early March

to early May. Breeding not confirmed this year, although an 

attempt at breeding was suspected in mid-March. At this period, 

two males were present at the pond, sometimes together, with-

out the female.

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Photo: 7 May

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Rather sporadic observations from May to mid-June, birds apparently present at the pond at night but not during the day. 

 

Maximum of nine birds noted on 7 May, when the female was seen in flight, pursued by eight males. 

 

Almost absent during the second half of the year - noted twice (flyovers) in October [IG/DT]. 

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Although this species has (miraculously) bred successfully twice in recent years, the day-to-day disturbances (close proximity of humans, dogs running off-leash) mean that the chances of successful breeding are almost nil.

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Osprey   Pandion haliaetus  M

 

Observed migrating over the park on five dates (one in spring 

and four in autumn). 

 

1 on 12 April. 

 

2 on 31 August  [PR/DT]  -  1 on 5 September [IG/DR/LT/DT] ,

1 on 17th and 1 on 26th [IG/DT].

 

Photo: 5 September

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Black Kite  Milvus migrans  M

 

Noted on 10 dates (eight in spring and two in autumn).

 

1 on 21 April , 3 on 22nd, 1 on 23rd, 1 on 25th  -  1 on 7 May, 1 on 17th, 1 on 21st  -  1 on 13 June.

 

5 on 15 August  [ED/ML/DT] , 1 on 31st. 

 

A group of five migrating birds on 15th August was exceptional.

 

 

 

Photo: 21 April

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Red Kite   Milvus milvus  M

 

An excellent year - observed migrating over the park on five

dates in autumn.

 

11 on 15 October [IG/DR/DT] , 4 on 16th, 2 on 17th [IG/DR/LT/DT] , 1 on

22nd, 2 on 26th [IG/DT].

 

The sight of 11 birds (including a group of six) on 15 October was

exceptional.

Photo: 17 October 

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Marsh Harrier   Circus aeruginosus  M

 

A good year. Observed in active migration on 26 dates (10 in spring and

16 in autumn). At least 50 birds are involved (twice as many as last year).

 

1 on 28 March  -  2 on 2 April, 2 on 5th, 2 on 12th, 1 on 17th  -  1 on

6 May, 2 on 8th, 1 on 9th, 2 on 19th  -  1 on 8 June, 1 on 16th.

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Photo: 17 September

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8 on 31st August  -  8 on 1st September, 2 on 2nd, 1 on 5th, 1 on 9th, 1 on 10th, 1 on 17th, 1 on 19th, 2 on 20th, 1 on 28th, 1 on 30th  -  2 on 3 October, 2 on 10th, 2 on 15th  -  1 on 4 November.

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Hen Harrier   Circus cyaneus  M

 

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

 

1 on 18th April.

 

1 on 24 August [PR/DT] -  1 on 6 October, 1 on 8th, 1 on 15th [IG/DR/DT] ,

1 on 23rd [IG/DR/PR/DT]  -  1 on 7 November.

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Photo: 24 August

 

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Pallid Harrier   Circus macrourus  M

 

Observed once in spring.

 

1 on 17 April. 

 

This was an adult male flying quickly and directly towards the

northeast in the early afternoon. Without doubt the bird of the year it

was a first record for the department of Seine-Saint-Denis [Brisechant E.,

2014. Les Oiseaux de Seine-Saint-Denis. CORIF.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Buzzard  Buteo buteo  M

 

The buzzard has become far commoner over recent years, thanks

largely to the presence of a number of local birds in the vicinity of the

nearby Bois de Vincennes. This has complicated the counting - 

producing accurate figures of migrating birds is difficult. The Vincennes

birds (generally 3-4 birds) are most visible from late February to late

May.

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Photo: 15 October 

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Migration evident in spring from 5 April -  24 May, with a maximum of 3 on 8 May. In autumn, migration evident from 15 August - 23 October, with an exceptional peak of 15 birds on 15 October [IG/DR/DT].

 

A total of 62 migrants was estimated (12 in spring and 50 in autumn). 

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Honey-buzzard   Pernis apivorus  M

 

Observed on 23 dates (six in spring and 17 in autumn). 53 birds are involved. A total of 9 migrating birds on 1st September was notable. 

 

2 on 12 May, 1 on 18th, 2 on 19th -  1 on 8 June, 1 on 10th, 3 on 13th.

 

Photo: 15 August

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1 on 20 June  -  5 on 12 August, 1 on 13th, 2 on 15th, 1 on 18th, 1 on 20th, 4 on 23rd, 7 on 24th, 1 on 26th, 4 on 27th, 2 on 29th, 1 on 31st  -  9 on 1st September, 1 on 2nd, 1 on 3rd, 1 on 5th, 1 on 15th.

 

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Eurasian Sparrowhawk   Accipiter nisus  S

 

Observed regularly (usually 1-3 individuals) throughout the year. Breeding possible but unconfirmed this year in the Bois de Bordure - a pair present and display noted in early April. However, unlike in some previous years, apparently no begging calls from juveniles emanating from the woodland later in the year.

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In spring and (especially) autumn, migrating birds occasionally noted in small numbers. Migration evident this autumn on 10 dates from 5 September - 23 October.

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Photo: 21 April 

 

 

 

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Kestrel  Falco tinnunculus  S M

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Breeds in the immediate vicinity of the park. 1-3 individuals (usually one) observed almost daily.  

 

 

 

 

Hobby  Falco subbuteo E M

 

Observed more frequently than last year. 1-4 birds noted on 30 dates from 25 April - 9 October.

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Observations concern, in general, local birds, two of which (visibly a bonded pair) were seen over the nearby Bois de Vincennes on four dates: 20 May, 11 June, 13 & 14 August).

 

Breeding probable nearby - individuals noted flying south towards Vincennes with prey in their talons on three dates (7 & 12 September and 9 October). 

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Peregrine  Falco peregrinus  S M

 

Breeding Peregrines in and around Paris over recent years have rendered the species less of a rarity at Beaumonts.  Observations at the park usually involve meandering or circling birds, high in the distance. 

 

Singles observed on nine dates. 

 

29 March - 29 April - 12 May - 10, 16 & 17 June.

 

24 August - 5 September - 16 October.

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Merlin  Falco columbarius  M

 

Observed in active migration on five dates (one in spring and four in autumn).

 

1 on 12th May.

 

1 on 4 October [IG/DT] , 1 on 14th, 1 on 26th, 1 on 30th. 

 

Photo: 4 October

 

 

 

 

 

Moorhen   Gallinula chloropus  S M

 

This was a better year than last, with a pair noted on several occasions. Breeding confirmed at the Mare du Bas. Almost absent during the second half of the year.

 

Not seen at the park at the beginning of the year, although birds sound-recorded during the night on four dates between 20 February - 4 March. 

 

A pair noted regularly at the Mare Perchée from mid-March to late May never managed to settle there: in early May their nest, constructed amongst the reeds, was abandoned due to a rising water level. It was probably this event, along with higher-than-usual human disturbance at the pond that caused the pair to begin nest-building in a nearby tree (behaviour not previously witnessed at Beaumonts, and noticed for the first time on 27 May). 

 

This tree-nesting attempt visibly failed also, since an active nest was discovered some 200M from there at the Mare du Bas on 18 June. This smaller pond was sufficiently undisturbed and isolated to allow for successful breeding, since three weeks later the pair was observed in the company of three chicks [PR].

 

It appears that the birds quickly deserted the park after breeding - only two further sightings were made in the second half of the year (29 September and 2 October). 

 

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Water Rail   Rallus aquaticus   M

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Sound-recorded in nocturnal migration twice in spring. 

 

1 on 21 February - 1 on 4 March 

 

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Spotted Crake   Porzana porzana  M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration once in spring. 

 

1 on 23 April  

 

This constitutes the first record for Beaumonts.

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Coot   Fulica atra   M

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Sound-recorded at night on ten dates in spring. 

 

2 on 22 February                                       2 on 27th  -  3 on 3 March, 1 on 17th, 1 on 22nd & 31st. 

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2 on 5 April                                        1 on 6th -  1 on 7 May, 1 on 21st  

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The calls on 5 April are accompanied by a Tawny Owl!

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Common Crane   Grus grus  M

 

One observation in autumn.

 

3 on 4 November. 

 

 

 

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Little Ringed Plover   Charadrius dubius  M

 

Sound-recorded once in autumn. 

 

2+ on 3 October [IG/DT]   

 

A welcome observation but somewhat frustrating - the birds flew over the cascade in broad daylight at around 09h15, but remained invisible to the observers present! 

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Northern Lapwing   Vanellus vanellus  M H

 

A disappointing year – strangely absent. Noted on three dates in autumn. 

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5 on 11 October [IG/DT] , 27 on 15th [IG/OL/DT]  -  1 on 5 November.

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Golden Plover   Pluvalis aricaria  H M

 

A very good year - observed migrating overhead on ten

dates (two in  spring  and eight in autumn).

 

Also sound-recorded once on nocturnal migration in spring*

 

180 on 15 February, 31 on 15th  -  1 on 3 March*

 

 

Photo: 21 November

 

 

65 on 3 October  -  31 on 3 November, 3 on 7th, 5 on 12th, 35 on 14th, 35 on 20th, 107 on 21st, 40 on 28th.

 

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Bar-tailed Godwit   Limosa lapponica  M

 

Observed once in autumn. 

 

1 on 22 September.

 

The bird was heard calling and seen flying over the park

towards the northwest early in the morning. One of the

highlights of the year this was a first for the park and only the

second record for the department of Seine-Saint-Denis

[Brisechant E.,2014. Les oiseaux de Seine-Saint-Denis, CORIF.]

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Eurasian Curlew   Numenius arquata   M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration once in autumn.

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1 on 24 August   

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Whimbrel   Numenius phaeopus  M

 

Observed once in spring. 

 

Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration twice in autumn.

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Avril le 11 (1)

 

Août le 27                                     septembre le 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Woodcock   Scolopax rusticola  M H

 

One observation in autumn. 

 

1 on 20 November. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Common Snipe   Gallinago gallinago  M

 

Observed once in autumn. 

 

1 on 3 November. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Wood Sandpiper   Tringa glareola   M

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Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration once in autumn.

 

1 on 5 September.

 

This constitutes the first record for the park.

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Green Sandpiper  Tringa ochropus   M

 

Noted three times in spring. Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration on two dates in autumn.

 

Mars le 14 (3) - avril les 14 (1) , 16 (1).

 

Août les 18 (1) , 27 (1)   

 

 

Photo: 14 March 

 

 

 

 

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Common Sandpiper  Actitis hypoleucos  M

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Sound-recorded twice on nocturnal migration (once in spring and once in autumn). 

 

1 on 19 May    

 

3 on 15 August 

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Redshank   Tringa totanus   M

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Rare passage migrant. Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration once in spring.

 

1 on 6 May   

 

 

 

 

Black-headed Gull   Chroicocephalus ridibundus   S M

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Observed regularly in small groups  (generally 1-10 birds) flying over the park in winter, early spring and autumn. Rather uncommon and irregular in summer. 

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Mediterranean Gull    Larus melanocephalus   M

 

Uncommon migrant. Observed on four dates in spring.

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2 on 5 April, 1 on 11th, 3 on 12th, 2 on 24th.

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April is by far the best month for this species at Beaumonts. 

 

 

Photo: 24 April

 

 

 

 

 

Herring Gull   Larus argentatus  S M

 

 

Flyovers. Observed irregularly in small numbers in winter, spring and autumn. 

 

 

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Yellow-legged Gull   Larus michahellis  H M

 

Probably under recorded due to difficulties identifying distant gulls. Most evident in spring, especially May. 

 

In spring 1-3 noted on six dates. Only two observations in autumn. 

 

1 on 18 January [PR] - 1 on 29 March  -  3 on 13 April, 1 on 28th, 1 on 29th  -  1 on 6 May.

 

1 on 17 August  -  1 on 19 October [IG/DT].

 

 

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Lesser Black-backed Gull   Larus fuscus  S M

 

Relatively common - small numbers noted in winter, spring

and autumn.

 

Migration to the southwest (35 birds, mainly adults) evident

on 11 October [IG/DT].

 

 

Photo: 1st March 

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Common Tern   Sterna hirundo   M

 

Rather rare migrant. A good year - observed four times in spring.

 

1 on 20 April, 1 on 21st, 1 on 29th  -  1 on 5 May.

 

 

Photo: 21 April

 

 

 

 

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Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon)    Columba livia  S

 

Common resident - seen daily. 

 

 

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Stock Dove   Columba oenas  S M

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A relatively common resident, breeding in the immediate vicinity. Small numbers noted flying over the park (usually to the northeast) throughout the year. 

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Wood Pigeon   Columba palumbus  S M

 

Common resident, breeds inside the park. Observed daily.  

 

Daily sightings involve relatively small numbers on site, 

supplemented significantly by local movements of groups flying

over the park in diverse directions. Birds fly generally to the

northeast in the mornings and return towards Paris later

in the day.

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Photo: 7 May

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In autumn, groups in active southbound migration noted on eight dates from 11 October - 28 November, with a peak of 1397 on 6 November.En 

 

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Collared Dove  Streptopelia decaocto  S

 

Relatively common breeding resident. 1-2 birds observed regularly in flight or sometimes perched near the Mare Perchée or inside the recycling plant. 

 

Breeding probable (Atlas Code 10) - a pair noted constructing a nest along the Sentier des Vergers on 19 April.

 

 

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Turtle Dove   Streptopelia turtur  M

 

Uncommon passage migrant. Noted flying over the park on three dates (two in spring and one in autumn).

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1 on 26 April  -  1 on 4 May.

 

1 on 27 August.

 

 

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Tawny Owl   Strix aluco  S

Sound-recordings conducted at night this year confirm again that the Tawny Owl occurs quite frequently inside the park. Heard throughout the year with the exception of a two-month period between mid-April and mid-June.  

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Barn Owl   Tyto alba  S M

 

Sound-recorded at night once in spring. 

 

1 on 14 June.    

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Common Swift   Apus apus  E M  

 

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

 

Noted for the first time in spring on 11 April. Observed for the last time on 19 September. 

 

In general, fewer birds noted than in previous years. Local populations apparently installed by 23rd April. Copulation noted amongst pairs flying over the Mare Perchée early in the mornings at the start of May. 

 

The so-called "Cosmos" building facing the park, in the Cité Jean Moulin, was once again the site of a breeding colony. It was there that, on 21st May, an unfortunate individual managed to get stuck at a nest site entrance, managing to eventually free itself after a long effort. 

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Little evidence of autumn passage - up to about 30 birds noted daily in August up until 5 September. Late birds noted on two dates thereafter, on 8th and 19th September.

 

 

 

[Budgerigar   Melopsittacus undulatus   C ]

 

One observation. 

 

1 on 24 August. 

 

 

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[Cockateil   Nymphicus hollandicus   C ]

 

Observed on two dates. 

 

2 on 23 August  -  1 on 20 September. 

 

 

 

Rose-ringed Parakeet   Psittacula krameri  F

 

Relatively common resident - numbers have increased considerably in recent years. Breeds now on site. 

 

Observations usually involve individuals or small groups flying noisily over the park- it is assumed that a number of these birds are moving from and to their roosting/nesting sites in the nearby parc Montreau, bois de Vincennes and/or Roissy.  

 

On 23rd October it was interesting to observe a small group accompanying closely a Great Egret on its long and slow journey across the sky to the southwest. This curious habit of "escorting large waterbirds has already been remarked upon, in cases of flyover Grey Herons.   

 

 

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Kingfisher  Alcedo atthis  S M

 

Very rare at the park. This year saw the return of the Kingfisher, which made a reappearance after an absence of 17 years.  

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A single bird observed on four dates in late autumn. 

 

25 October  -  4, 6 & 21 November. 

 

Photo: 4 November

 

    

 

 

 

 

Green Woodpecker   Picus viridis  S

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At least one pair breeding inside the park or in the immediate vicinity - observed or heard regularly throughout the year. More discreet for a short period in late April. 

 

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Great Spotted Woodpecker   Dendrocopos major  S

 

At least one breeding resident pair - seen or heard regularly throughout the year. More discreet in late July.

 

Observed on 20 June flying regularly over the cascade and carrying food for young (Atlas Code 16). Very evident in mid-September when seen inspecting cavities in the trees near the Jean Moulin college.  

 

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Lesser Spotted Woodpecker   Dendrocopos minor   S

 

Over recent years this species has become rare at Beaumonts. Observed only once, in winter.

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1 on 28 December [PR].

 

 

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Middle Spotted Woodpecker   Dendrocopus medius  S

 

Rare at Beaumonts – one observation in winter. 

 

1 on 18 January [PR].

 

 

 

Wryneck   Jynx torquilla  M

 

Uncommon migrant. 

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A very shy individual on site for several days in autumn.

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1 on 24 & 27 August. 

 

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Skylark   Alauda arvensis  M

 

Flyovers. Fairly common passage migrant in spring and (especially) autumn. 

 

1-11 birds noted in spring, on seven dates from 15 February - 13 April. 

 

Observed on 23 dates in autumn, from 7 October - 20 November with a peak of 424 on 30 October. 

 

Sound-recorded on nocturnal migration twice (15 February & 12 October). 

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Woodlark   Lullula arborea  M

 

Flyovers. Although less common than the preceeding species, a

regular passage migrant.

 

In spring, nocturnal migrants sound-recorded on two dates:  

 

2 on 3 March  

 

2 on 4 March 

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Photo: 31 October

 

 

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In autumn noted on 21 dates, from 3 October - 6 November with a peak of 84 on 11 October [IG/DT]

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Bank Swallow (Sand Martin)   Riparia riparia  E M

 

Flyovers. A rather uncommon but regular migrant in small numbers.

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1-9 noted on eight dates in spring, from 12 April - 25 May. 

 

1-2 observed on four dates in autumn from 2 September - 7 October.

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Barn Swallow  Hirundo rustica  E M

 

Common migrant in spring and autumn. Seldomly observed in summer. Lower numbers compared to previous years. 

 

In spring observed almost daily from 3 April - 25 May, with a small peak of 23 on 4 May. 

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Autumn migrants seen almost daily from 13 August - 30 October: maximum of 161 on 10 September.

 

 

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House Martin   Delichon urbicum  E M

 

Regular passage migrant in small numbers. 

 

Observed for the first time on 5 April. Migration noted thereafter on 16 dates until 25 May with a small peak of nine on 4 May. 

 

An interesting observation of a late bird in active migration to the north on 16 June. 

 

Observed on 16 dates in autumn, from 14 August - 26 October. Small peak of 23 on 8 October.

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Water Pipit   Anthus spinoletta  M

                                                                                                                                  

Uncommon passage migrant - observed on two dates (one in spring and one in autumn).

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1 on 5 April.

 

1 on 26 October.

 

The birds were identified from photographs - this species does not land at Beaumonts and is probably overlooked. 

 

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Meadow Pipit   Anthus pratensis  M

 

A common passage migrant in spring and (especially) autumn. 

 

Spring migration noted regularly from 15 March - 20 April with

a peak of 52 on 11 April.

 

Absent in summer. Noted for the first time in autumn on 15 

September. Observed regularly thereafter until 21 November with 

a maximum of 286 on 7 October.

 

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Photo: 31 October

 

 

 

 

Tree Pipit   Anthus trivialis  M

 

A relatively common migrant in spring and autumn. 

 

Observed for the first time in spring on 5 April. 1-3 noted thereafter on 11 dates until 10 May.  

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Absent in summer. In autumn, 1-5 noted on 17 dates from 25 August - 21 September. 

 

Recorded also on nocturnal migration: once in spring (23 April) and on nine dates in autumn from 18 August - 14 September. 

 

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White Wagtail   Motacilla alba  M

 

Relatively common migrant in spring and autumn. 

 

In spring, noted on 16 dates from 15 February - 13 April, with a small peak of 20 on 21 March.  

 

Absent in summer. Observed on 21 dates in autumn from 21 September - 3 November, with a peak of 106 on 10 October [ED/IG/DT].

 

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Western Yellow Wagtail   Motacilla flava  M

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Relatively common passage migrant in spring and (to a lesser extent) in autumn.

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In spring noted on 17 dates from 2 April - 10 May, with a peak of 10 on 21 April. 

 

In autumn observed on 13 dates from 19 August - 7 October, with a small peak of 4 on 5 September [IG/DR/DT/LT].

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Grey Wagtail   Motacilla cinerea  S M

 

Rather uncommon resident and migrant - does not breed inside

the park. 

 

One (sometimes two) noted on site fairly regularly, especially

during the second half of the year.  The species appears

particularly attracted to the recycling plant and its areas of

standing water.

 

Photo: 5 November 

 

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Whilst the majority of records refer to birds flying to and from the recycling plant and the town centre, the species was regularly seen throughout the year feeding from the edges of the Mare Perchée. 

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Winter Wren   Troglodytes troglodytes  S

 

Common breeding resident  - usually 1-4 seen daily.

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Photo: 6 April

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Dunnock    Prunella modularis  S M

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Common breeding resident - seen daily. 

 

 

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European Robin   Erithacus rubecula  S M

 

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

 

Juveniles noted in late May, mid-August and early September. 

 

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Nightingale    Luscinia megarhynchos  E M

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An excellent year - breeding confirmed for the second time inside the park. A second observation several days later (11 April) turned out to be the first of a long series, the species being either seen or heard regularly until August.

 

Two singing males present in late April, one in  the southeastern sector (Danton) and another close to the Mare Perchée where the species could be seen occasionally on the rocks at the cascade. It was indeed in this area that the presence of a pair could be confirmed on 12 May when a calling individual (presumably a female) was visible whilst a male was singing in close proximity. 

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Successful breeding confirmed on 13 June with the fledging of juveniles (photo). 

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Birds probably belonging to this brood were heard calling (or sound-recorded at night) regularly in the same area until mid-August. Seen for the last time on 31 August. 

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Black Redstart   Phoenicurus ochruros  M

 

Rather irregular and uncommon migrant. Absent during the summer although it breeds in the urban areas bordering the park. 

 

Noted for the first time on 18 March - this concerned a small snatch of song sound-recorded during the night, perhaps emmitted by a bird flying overhead in active nocturnal migration. 

 

Thereafter observed in spring on seven dates flying north (sometimes landing on site) from 21 March - 28 April. 

 

An individual noted flying north on 22 June. 

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In autumn, 1-4 noted on nine dates from 7 September - 27 October.

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Redstart   Phoenicurus phoenicurus  M

 

Uncommon migrant. Noted in spring and (especially) early autumn.

 

Not observed in spring this year. 

 

In autumn, singles noted on 13 dates from 17 August - 29 October. 

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Photo: 29 October [Olivier Laporte]

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As has been the case in a couple of previous years, a late migrant at the end of October proved interesting. The bird present on 29 October (unfortunately only briefly glimpsed) was very grey-looking above with a strong white eyering and pale wing-panel [OL/DT].

 

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Northern Wheatear   Oenanthe oenanthe  M

 

Rare migrant - one observation in autumn. 

 

2 on 31 August. 

 

The birds landed briefly on the lawns in the northern section of the park. 

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Whinchat   Saxicola rubetra  M

 

Uncommon migrant - observed three times in autumn. 

 

1 on 10 September [PR/DT] , 1 on 14 September , 1 on 16 September. 

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Stonechat   Saxicola rubicola  M

 

Sadly now a rather rare passage migrant. One observation in autumn. 

 

1 on 2 October. 

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Ring Ouzel   Turdus torquatus  M

 

An uncommon but regular passage migrant (especially April). 

 

Noted on three dates in spring.

 

7 on 5 April, 1 on 6 April, 1 on 9 April. 

 

 

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Blackbird   Turdus merula  S M

 

Common breeding resident - small numbers seen or heard daily. 

 

Noted in active migration in late autumn on nine dates from 8 October - 8 November.

 

Photo: 15 April

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fieldfare   Turdus pilaris  H M

 

Uncommon migrant in late autumn and spring. Rare on site in winter.  

 

Two observations in winter at the start of the year: 1 on 6 February [PR] and 1 on 15 February.

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Singles noted migrating in spring on 21st March and 3rd April. 

 

In autumn observed on 11 dates from 12 October - 21 November, with a peak of 52 on 12 October [PR/DT]. 

 

It was interesting to note northward movements (with other species) on 5th November, several birds landing on site en route.

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Song Thrush   Turdus philomelos  S M

 

Common breeding resident, though rather discreet. Generally 1-3 seen or heard daily. Numbers bolstered in late autumn and spring by passage migrants. 

 

Migration evident in spring from 14 March - 17 April, with a peak of 100 on 5 April. 

 

In autumn, migration noted from 21 Septemnber - 13 November, with a small peak of 47 on 15 October [IG/DR/DT].

 

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Redwing   Turdus iliacus  H M

 

Relatively common migrant and winter visitor.

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Present on site in winter at the beginning of the year - 1-9 noted irregularly in January and February [PR/DT].

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Spring migration evident from 22 February - 7 April - noted on seven dates with a peak of 64 of 3 April. 

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Seen for the first time in autumn on 28 September. Noted therafter in small numbers until 22 November - peak of 124 migrating birds noted on 12 October [PR/DT]. 

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Mistle Thrush  Turdus viscivorus  S M

 

Fairly common resident; 1-3 birds observed regularly throughout the year. Song evident at the beginning of the year, in January and February. 

 

Noted only once migrating in spring (1 on 23 March). 

 

Migration in autumn evident from 26 September - 21 November - noted on 14 dates with a peak of 12 on 3 October [IG/DT].  

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Reed Warbler   Acrocephalus scirpaceus  E M

 

Uncommon migrant and irregulat summer visitor- breeds

occasionally. A better year than last, even though the species

did not breed at the pond.

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As usual discreet in spring. Feeble and faint song heard from a 

variety of sectors (away from the reedbed) from 18 April - 9 

May. Two individuals present on 5 and 9 May.

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Photo: 7 October

 

In autumn, migrants noted on four dates from 13 August - 2 September. A late individual present at the pond on 6 & 7 October.

 

 

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Garden Warbler   Sylvia borin  E M

 

Breeding summer visitor and migrant - breeding confirmed. 

 

Observed for the first time in spring on 17 April; interestingly it involved two birds apparently already in a bonded pair, a male singing discreetly with a silent and stationary second bird closeby.

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Noted regularly thereafter with an individual seen transporting nest material (Atlas Code 10) on 19 May. Observed carrying food for young (Atlas Code 16) on 14 June. 

 

1-2 birds noted irregularly in summer until 27 August. 

 

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Blackcap   Sylvia atricapilla  H E M

 

Common breeding summer visitor and passage migrant. 

 

1-12 birds either seen or heard almost daily. 

 

Noted twice in the first winter period (21 January [PR] & 15 February). 

 

Observed regularly in spring from 14 March. About 18 on site on 27 August. 

 

In contrast to last year, well presented in October with up to 20 birds noted at the start of the month. Observed for the last time (two birds) on 1st November.

 

 

 

 

 

Greater Whitethroat Sylvia communis  E

 

Fairly common and regular breeding summer visitor, although fewer birds than in previous years. 

 

Breeding unconfirmed (and unlikely) this year. 

 

Seen for the first time in spring on 19 April. 

 

1-2 noted regularly in spring. Singing heard almost daily from the prairie until early July (suggesting unpaired males).

 

Observed for the last time on 3 September.   

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Melodious Warbler   Hippolais polyglotta  E M

 

Uncommon migrant - has not bred at Beaumonts since 2012.

 

A better year than most - noted on 19dates. 

 

A discreet (and invisible) singing male at the Petite Prairie on 25 Avil. Seen or heard thereafter on four dates until 22 May.

 

Following that, what was probably an unpaired male sang regularly from the Compost area from 7 June - 7 July [PR/DT].

 

 

Photo: 11 Jun

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Willow Warbler   Phylloscopus trochilus  E M

 

Rather uncommon passage migrant - does not breed at Beaumonts. Noted irregularly in spring and autumn.

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First observed in spring on 1 April. 1-2 singing birds noted thereafter on 14 dates until 6 May. 

 

In autumn, 1-2 noted on 13 dates from 12 August - 16 September. A late individual in the Petite Prairie on 9 October. 

 

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Chiffchaff    Phylloscopus collybita E M H

 

Common in summer - seen daily. 

 

First observed in spring on 22 February. Small numbers noted regularly thereafter until late November. Rather lower numbers than in recent years (generally 1-4 noted daily). 

 

Roughly 12 birds on site in late October, including a tight band of 7-8 birds at the Mare du Bas, most of them still present on 13 November.

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Wood Warbler   Phylloscopus sibilatrix  M

 

Rare migrant - one observation in spring. 

 

1 on 18 April. 

 

This was the first since 2014. IThe bird was singing from the 

woodland along the Sentier des Vergers.

 

 

 

 

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