Nothe Bird List

Birding The Nothe

Annotated Species List

These notes are compiled from my own observations, Nov 1981 - Oct 1985, late 1999 - date, from notes compiled by David Fisher (DJF) from observations Sep 1973 - May 1975, from notes supplied by Jon Stirling (JS), covering the late 80s and early 90s, and Carol Brookes 1997-1999 (CB), Dave Chown (DC), James Lowther (JL), Bob Ford (RF), from Dorset Bird Reports (DBR) going back to 1951, from original Dorset Bird Club records, from The Birds of Dorset by George Green , published in 2004 (BOD), from records on the Birdguides website (BG) and from the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History & Archaeological Society (DNHAS) going back to 1860 (Ivory Gull).

Thanks to Phil Read for digging the latter records out. Any records from the Nothe itself, Newton's Cove, Weymouth Harbour below the Town Bridge and Weymouth Bay are included. The list currently stands at 202 species.

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Species underlined link to full-page details.

Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata :
Annual winter visitor to Weymouth Bay in small numbers - records go back to at least 1925. Possibly more likely to be seen here than in Portland Harbour. Max 10 on 4 Jan 1986. Occasional in spring, with latest spring record one on 11 June 1986.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica :
Almost annual winter visitor to Weymouth Bay in small numbers. Has summered in Weymouth Bay (7 Jun - 5 Jul 2000). Records go back to at least 1920. Max 13 on 29 Dec 1981.

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer :
Annual winter visitor to Weymouth Bay , and the only true transatlantic migrant we get! Records go back to at least 1927. Increasing, with just a few records each winter in the early 80s, and now noted about one day in three, from late October to March. There is one summer record, on 7 Jul 1990. An unprecedented max 11 seen 31 Dec 1999. My earliest autumn date 11 Oct 2001; latest in spring a single on 22 May 2002.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis :
Increasingly regular in winter in Weymouth Harbour and on the sheltered side of the pier. Max 5, 28 Feb 2002. Earliest 20 Oct 2003; latest 17 Apr 2005. Pair displaying and 'whinnying' on 8 Mar 2005.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena :
Regular winter visitor to Weymouth Bay in small numbers. First record one on 1 Feb 1940 ( BOD) Possibly more regularly found in Weymouth Bay than in Portland Harbour, unlike the other grebes. My max - and probably equal record max - four on 3 Jan 2006.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus :
A number present throughout the winter, with more lingering into spring, and appearing in late summer or early autumn recently. Seemingly decreasing, with maxima 16 on 24 Jan 1984 and 6 Feb 1985, and much lower averages in recent years.

Slavonian (Horned) Grebe Podiceps auritus :
Regular winter visitor to Weymouth Bay and Newton's Cove in small numbers.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis :
Surprisingly scarce considering that there is a wintering flock in Portland Harbour, usually around Sandsfoot Castle, every year. One on 19 Oct 1984; one in Newton's Cove on 20 Jan 1987; one on 17 Jan 1989; one on 4 Jan 1994 (JS). Five summer-plumaged birds in Weymouth Bay on 4 Apr 2005 (JS. )Regular reports from Weymouth Bay amount to a few birds a year at most.

Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis :
Occasional records of birds flying close to the Nothe Fort, mostly in April & May. Maybe they'll try to nest here one day. Other records from Weymouth Bay, often in southerly gales. Max 8 on 2 May 2003. Earliest in a south-west gale on 31 Jan 2004. Latest on 30 Aug 2002.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus :
One feeding on the outfall, 17 Sep 1980, with two Sabine's Gulls. Three on 10 Mar 2002 - by far the earliest recorded here (DBR). Otherwise noted regularly in mid-May to early Jun in Weymouth Bay. Max 17 on 13 May 1999 (DBR).

Balearic Shearwater Puffinus mauretanicus:
A group of six feeding amongst Herring Gulls off the Stone Pier, 3 Jul 2001. Three Weymouth Bay 25 Jul 2003 (DBR). Two Weymouth Bay 23 Aug 2004 (Birdguides).

European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus :
Five Weymouth Bay, after the 'hurricane', 18 Oct 1987. One Weymouth Bay, 17 Dec 1989. Two seen a few hundred yards off the Stone Pier in the afternoon of 30 Oct 2000 were amongst over 100 'wrecked' in the Weymouth/Portland area after a severe SW storm in the early hours (JS). One flying from Lodmoor into Weymouth Bay, 3 Nov 2005 (DBC). One spring record - two in Weymouth Bay on 22 May 2006, after a huge storm petrel wreck off Portland.

Leach's Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorrhoa :
Two in Weymouth Bay, after the 'hurricane', 18 Oct 1987. A 'wreck' in December 1989 had the highest nos since 1952. At least 5 off the Stone Pier on 24 Dec 1989 (JS), with a total of 14 bird-days in Weymouth Bay 21-25 Dec 1989, max 12 at Overcombe on 24 Dec. Two in Weymouth Bay and one Newton's Cove 3 Nov 2005 with another on 8 Nov.

Northern Gannet Sula bassana :
Increasing in Weymouth Bay, and now a regular visitor, mostly in summer. One ad. past Stone Pier, 26 Jan 1975 (DJF). Also several oiled birds recorded from the same time. Not seen by JDM in the early 80s, but now noted on approx 10 days per year, mainly in summer. Max 61 past in an hour, 2 May 2003. Earliest three on 1 Jan 2004. Latest a single on 25 Oct 2005. 2004 saw the first records of birds settling on the water.

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo :
Present all year, with highest numbers late autumn/early winter. Max 27 on 2 Dec 2005.

European Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis :
Present outside the breeding season, with peak nos usually in Nov/Dec.. Max 52 counted from the Stone Pier on 8 Nov 2005, following SW gales.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea :
Birds fly over and sometimes land, although the rocky shore here doesn't seem to offer much feeding, and gets too disturbed. Many records are of birds flying to and from Portland Harbour. Seems to have increased, with c10 dates/year in the 80s and c 30 dates/year in the 2000s. Most records from early autumn, with max 7 flying N on 15 Oct 2000 and 7 on 3 Oct 2002.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta :
Increasing records reflect the national trend. A remarkable max 4 on 17 Apr 1970 "on The Nothe foreshore". These were part of a multiple arrival of 7 in the Weymouth/Portland area, subsequently joining another bird on Lodmoor. Three records of singles in 1995 were followed by annual and increasing records since 2000. Best year 2004, with 12 bird-days. My max three on 23 Mar 2003.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia : One over Weymouth Bay, 25 May 1988.

Mute Swan Cygnus olor :
In 1982 and 1983 a pair, and sometimes three birds used to frequent the harbour and pier in Nov/Dec. DJF also mentions the same for 1975. Many fewer records recently - a declining species.Recent records - One on 16 Dec 1989; max eight on 18 Jan 1990;one on 8 Nov 1990; two on 7 Oct 1995; 3 on 9 Nov 1995 (JS). Four bird-days in 2000, one in 2001 and ten in 2002 contrast with a max of 34 bird-days in 1983.

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianus :
Six were flushed (not deliberately!) from Lodmoor by JDM and settled in Weymouth Bay in freezing conditions on 17 Jan 1982.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis :
Two records. Two females, Weymouth Bay, on 7 Jan 1990. One Weymouth Bay on 14 Feb 1991 in a year when breeding occurred at Radipole Lake.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus :
4W past the Stone Pier on 1 Dec 1983 in a Force 5 SE were one of the best surprises from this time. Seven 'flew through' over Weymouth Bay, 3 Nov 2004 (DBR).

Greylag Goose: 41 were seen flying east over Weymouth Bay on 21 Feb 2006 (DBC).

Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis :
Three records. One in Weymouth Bay on 1 Jan 1981 (DBR). One past the fort going SW, 31 Mar 2004. One flying W up the harbour 14 Jun 2005.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis:
One E with Brent Geese in Weymouth Bay on 29 Dec 1982 'may have been wild' (DBR).

Brent Goose (Dark-bellied) Branta bernicla bernicla:
Odd flocks go past on their way to and from The Fleet, an important wintering area. Records include 20W on 9 Nov 1982, 12W on 9 Dec 1982, 3 on 6 Mar 1984, 3W on 28 Nov 1984, 1 on 22 Jan 1985. 16 on 22 Oct 1997. Recent maxima 33W on 30 Jan 1985 and 33 S on 20 Apr 2002. Record max 300 in Weymouth Bay in 1931, in cold weather early in the year (DNHAS).
Light-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota :
Four records on spring passage. 13 in Weymouth Bay, 30 Mar 1994; Five in Weymouth Bay, 22 Mar 1995; 16 in Weymouth Bay, 21 Apr 2003; one past on 19 Apr 2005.

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna :
Formerly occasional though more regular in cold weather on the sea. Recently an increasing spring visitor to The Nothe itself with birds settled on the shore (max six settled on 1 May 2002). Records include 3 on 21 Jan 1983, 3 on 21 March 1984, up to 9 in cold weather, 7 - 14 Jan 1985, 2 on 20 Sep 1985. An excellent series of records in spring 2000, with pairs lingering along the south rocks and in Newton's Cove, max 9 on 28 Apr 2000. Again in 2001 the usual spring influx, with records on 6 dates from 6 Apr to 18 May, max four on 11 May 2001. Seen on 17 dates in spring 2002, max eight on 11 May 2002, when a pair seemed to be prospecting for nest sites along the breakwater side of Newton's Cove.

Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope :
An occasional visitor to Weymouth Bay. 20W on 12 Oct 1983, up to 10 off Stone Pier in cold weather, 4 - 8 Jan 85. A flock of 15 were in the bay in frosty conditions on 12 Jan 2003 and 11W on 13 Nov 2003. Earliest in autumn one west on 24 Aug 2004. Five flying west during a cold spell, 4 Mar 2005.

Gadwall Anas strepera :
A pair in Newton's Cove on 25 May 2004. Possibly the same pair returning, on the rocks south-east of the fort, 10 May 2005.

Common Teal Anas crecca :
Occasionally flies past, wandering from the Weymouth wetlands. Two flocks in winter, 1974-5 (DJF). Two W in Weymouth Bay, 25 Jan 1990. Two on 26 July 1983, one drake off Stone Pier, 22 Jan 1985. One on 1 Nov 1995 (JS).

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos :
Breeds. Increasing in spring. One or two pairs noted in 70s and 80s breeding on grassy slopes on top of the Nothe Fort walls. DF notes up to 7 drakes present in 1975. Lower nos in the 80s, with max 4 birds. In March 2000 up to 20 birds seen, including 13 drakes. Max 31 on 27 Apr 2002.

Northern Pintail Anas acuta :
One flying west over the top lawns with six Brent Geese, 28 Sep 2002. Noted in Weymouth Bay, 2004 (DBR).

Common Pochard Aythya ferina :
A series of records in cold weather, 7 - 28 Jan 1985, in the harbour and off the pier, with one on 13 Mar 1985. Max 8, 14 Jan 1985. Five W in Weymouth Bay, 25 Jan 1990. One in the harbour, 17 Feb 2003.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula :
Mainly cold weather records. One, 22 Dec 1981; several 14 - 28 Jan 1985 with the above species. Max 20, 22 Jan 1985. One flying SW past the pier, 25 Nov 2003. Two spring records: a pair flying past the fort on 18 May 2005 and a drake also past the fort on 29 Apr 2006.

(Greater) Scaup Aythya marila :
Six fem/imms off pier, in bitterly cold weather with NE winds, 14 Jan 1985. Weymouth Bay : Three on 1 Jan. one on 26 & 30 Jan 1996; one on 6 Jan 1997.

Common Eider Somateria mollissima :
Noted infrequently but regularly in Weymouth Bay, with records all through the year. My max 9, 2 Mar 1984. Recent and possibly record max a flock of 12, including six adult drakes, on 25 Apr 2004.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis :
Uncommon but regular in the Weymouth area. One Weymouth Harbour, 17 Jan 1934 (DNHAS). Two females present off pier, Dec 1973 (DJF). Max 'six passage birds off The Nothe, 6 Apr 1981' (DBR). A fem. seen off the pier after a cold snap on 22 Jan 1985, 3 on 29 Dec 1988 and one on 14, 16,17 & 25 Jan and 17 Feb 1989 (JS).Two on 10 Jan, 4 on 11 Feb and 2 on 19 May 1989, which seems to have been an exceptional year. One on 29 Nov 2002 (DBR). One 20 Dec 2004 (DBR). Two Newton's Cove, 5 Nov 2005 (PR). There must surely be more Weymouth Bay records.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra :
Regularly noted in Weymouth Bay, with records all through the year, usually with most settled birds in the winter months, but with a recent trend towards many more summer and early autumn records. Max. a staggering 200 in Weymouth Bay in the winter of 1952/3 (BOD). Recent maxima 42 on 25 Oct 1988, 50 in Nov 1988, and 30 on 21 Oct 1990 (JS). My max from The Nothe 40 on 6 Dec 2005.

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca :
Occasional but regular in Weymouth Bay, usually Nov - Feb. Max 5 in Dec 1973 (DJF). Earliest in autumn 31 Oct 1999. Latest in spring 2 Feb 2003.

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula : Scarce in winter. One off pier, 10 Jan 1984. Singles in Weymouth Bay, 16 Jan 1987 and 12 Jan 1992. 1-2 birds in Portland Harbour and Weymouth Bay on several dates in Jan and Dec 2000; drakes on 1 Jan and on 23 Dec 2002 (DBR). Max 40 in Weymouth Bay, 30 Nov 1980 (DBR).

Smew Mergellus albellus :
A redhead on 5 Jan 1997 (JS), and a drake in the early winter period 1997 in Weymouth Bay (DBR).

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator :
Surprisingly uncommon. Despite more than 100 regularly wintering in Portland Harbour, only a few at a time occur here, mostly Jan - Mar. Six flying past 1 March 1975; max 25 on 27 Nov 1982; an unusual summer record 26 Jul - 6 Aug 1983; two, 9 Jan 1984; eight, 23 Jan 1985; 11 on 27 Mar 1992 (JS); six on 23 Feb 1999 (CB); up to four, Jan-Mar 2000, just a pair on 5 dates Feb-Mar 2001, and the same again in 2002. A drake on the rocks on the north side of the pier on 20 Mar 2003 was the first record on the land - present again on 29 Mar 2003, this is the latest record in spring.

Goosander Mergus merganser :
One 11 Jan, and max five in Weymouth Bay on 16 Jan 1987. Two redheads in Weymouth Bay on 15 Feb 1997. One redhead E past the pier on 16 Feb 2003.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus :
Four records. One flying south low over Weymouth Bay towards the Portland breakwaters on a calm overcast morning at 7.35am, 4 Oct 2000. Singles over Weymouth Bay & Portland Harbour on 12 & 14 Sep 2002 (DBR). One going over east on a warm spring afternoon, 25 Mar 2003 (Birdguides).

Red Kite Milvus milvus :
One in off the sea at The Nothe on 31 Dec 1983 (DBR).

(Eurasian) Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus:
A female E over Weymouth Bay on 25 Sep 2002 (DBR).

(Eurasian) Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus :
Single birds seen 'fairly often' in the seventies. 3 records autumn/winter 1981/82;11 autumn/winter 1982/83; seven in 83/84; seven 1984/85; three Sep/Oct 1985; eight records in 2000, including two together on 7 Nov 2000.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis:
One south over Weymouth Harbour on 22 Sep 1982 would have flown over the edge of the recording area.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo:
Four records. One flying north in the early afternoon, 6 Oct 2000. One north from Portland Harbour towards Weymouth being mobbed by herons, crows and gulls, 27 Dec 2000. Two over the harbour at lunchtime, 26 Sep 2003 (JL). One over the harbour and town at lunchtime, 5 Apr 2005.

(Eurasian) Kestrel Falco tinnunculus :
Seen on 'only one or two occasions' early seventies (DJF). This used to be a fairly regular sight here in the early eighties : e.g. 24 bird-days in 1982/83, with two together on Oct 13 1982. Recently only up to three bird-days per year, usually on autumn passage, so a significant decline since the 80s.

Merlin Falco columbarius :
Five records.One f/imm 9 Dec 1981. Another 27 Sep 1985 after a good fall of passerines. One 7 Oct 2002 amongst good vis. mig. was followed by another on 14 Oct. One over Newton's Cove on 20 Oct 2005 (DC).

Hobby Falco subbuteo :
Four records. One heading north over the pier into Weymouth on 29 Apr 2001, and another (imm) using the same flight-line in rough weather on 4 May 2004, and another (ad.) in fine conditrions, again low over the pier, on 5 May 2005. One rapidly heading south 6 Sep 2003.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus :
Increasing. One fem.on 10 May 1985 is the only 80s record. Then one on 22 Oct 1995 (JS). More recently one 22 Feb (CB) and 27 Dec 1999, with three records in 2000. In 2001 7 bird-days from 11 Feb to 21 Oct. In 2002 6 bird-days, but the first multiple occurrence - a pair flying around the fort on 22 June. 2003 had a record 15 bird-days, with max three on 21 Nov 2003. One actually on the fort walls on 27 Jan 2004 was the first seen to land.

(Common) Pheasant Phasianus colchicus :
A hen feeding under bushes on 8 Nov 1983. One of the most unexpected records - did the bird fly across Weymouth Bay & the harbour to get here, or was it 'rescued'? Another on 7 Oct 2004 suggests that both got here under their own steam! Another hen was on the top lawns on 21 Oct 2005.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus :
One amongst rocks at the harbour end of the pier, in the evening of 11 Jan 1984;another, or perhaps the same bird, seen 3 & 5 April 1984 in the same place. Very surprising records in view of the extensive freshwater habitat available at nearby Radipole, and the lack of freezing conditions on all occasions.

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus:
One in the harbour, c 50m downstream from the town bridge, on 16 Dec 2003 (JL). Possibly the same bird around the lifeboat station 21 Jan - 13 Mar 2004. One on a pontoon just dowstream from the town bridge, 8 Nov 2005

.Eurasian Coot Fulica atra :
A sporadic winter visitor to the harbour November - April, usually in the inner harbour, but occasionally straying to the Stone Pier. Earliest in autumn 9 Nov 1981. Latest spring 10 Apr 1987. Max 15, 23 Jan 1985, after snow. Not seen winter 1999/2000 or 2001, but two records in 2002 - on 5 Jan and 4 Apr 2002.

(Eurasian) Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus :
DJF mentions 'occasional birds' in the early 70s. Probably increased in the early 80s, when 3/4 birds regularly present autumn and winter (Max 8 on 26 Sep 1985), dropping to 1/2 occasionally March/April. Has certainly increased since then, and now present throughout the year, with max a noisy flock of 14 on 25 Mar 2003. A count of 120 on the shores of Weymouth Bay on 22 Feb 1997 is exceptional but demonstrates the possibilities!

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta :
One north over Weymouth Bay on 4 Dec 1995.

(Northern) Lapwing Vanellus vanellus :
Very much a cold-weather visitor, with occasional passage flocks overhead. Two present 10-14 Jan 1982 during snow. 34 flew over on 5 Mar 1984. Present again in icy conditions, 10 - 21 Jan 1985, with max nine on 16th. One found dead on 22nd.

(European) Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria :
Two records. Three flying south over the Top Lawns, 13 Oct 2004. Six flying north, 14 Oct 2005.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola :
One past the pier, 10 Nov 1982. Also recorded in Newton's Cove in 1982 (DBR). One on 8 Mar 1987, max. 30 on 2 Nov 1988, two on 8 and 9 Feb 1996 (JS). One on the south shore on 22-23 Apr 2003.

(Greater) Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula :
Mainly winter records, especially in cold weather, with the odd summer and passage bird. One 23 Feb 1975 (DJF). Two, 10-13 Jan 1982 during snow. One , 17 Jan 1984. Present for several days in Jan 1985, with six on 7 Jan, last seen on 18 Jan when 5 present. Max 38 on 30 Jan 1989 (JS). Two summer records: one on 27 July 2001, and my max eight over the pier on 22 Aug 2002.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica :
A remarkable series of records in 2000 were the first recorded here. Two summer-plumaged males appeared on south rocks, 2 May 2000. These were joined by others, and a max of seven were present on 4th & 5th, the last female leaving on 11th. Seen again in 2002, with 7 bird-days from 25 Apr - 1 May, max 4 on 27 Apr 2002.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus :
Many more records in recent years. Regular in spring, with lower nos on return passage. Earliest 14 Apr (2004 and 2005). Latest 6 Sep 1989. Record max. 52 over in an hour on 20 Apr 2004 - settled max 18 on 7 May 1998 (CB) and 27 Apr 2002 .

(Eurasian) Curlew Numenius arquata :
Occasional records mostly of birds flying to and from The Fleet, the most regular site in the area for Curlew. Two, 27 Jan 1982; six, 13 June 1982; one, 7 July 1983; 'records' in 1984 (DBR); two west , 13 Mar 2000; one south, 4 Nov 2002; one NW 6 Mar 2003, with another on 6 Sep, and two on the south shore on 18 Sep 2003 - the first noted to land.

Common Redshank Tringa totanus :
Regular singles on the rocky shore in the early eighties, then usually associated with cold weather, but with the odd spring and autumn passage record.Now almostg entirely seen on passage, with one or two annually in spring and summer/autumn. Most records July and August. Max three, 27 Aug 1982. Single on 23 Jan 1997 (CB). Singles flying over on 4 June and 22 Aug 2001. Two on 28 July 2003.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia :
One record - a single on 11 Jan 1982, in snowy conditions. It was probably this bird, together with a Woodcock seen on the same day, that inspired me to watch the area on a regular basis.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus:
One flew north low over the top lawns in wet conditions on 7 May 2002.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos :
Regularly present on passage. Formerly one or two birds regularly also present in winter - it was arguably the most reliable site in the county for Common Sandpipers in winter - but in the last few years this has ceased to be a wintering species here, and probably in Dorset altogether. However, the site is still important for this species on passage - in 2002 this was the second most important spring passage site in Dorset for Common Sandpiper after Portland Bill. Max 17, 31 Aug 2005.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia :
A bird accompanying a Common Sandpiper, found by David Fisher, present from 8/9 Dec 1973 - 24 Mar 1974. The first record for Dorset, and the first wintering record for Britain. DJF was especially commended by British Birds for his descriptive record of this bird. BB rarity.

(Ruddy) Turnstone Arenaria interpres :
Winter & spring visitor, with remarkable increase in the early 80s, which was maintained into the early 2000s. No records 1973-75. Recorded 4 days 1981/2; 9 days 1982/3, max 12; 37 days 1983/4, max 19; 40 days 1984/5, max 17. Recorded in every month with latest in spring one on 17 Jun 2006 and earliest in autumn 13 Aug 2004. One on 5 Jul 2006 is the only July record. Max 32 on 14 Sep 2000.

The 2002 Dorset Bird Report reveals that in that year this was the single most important site in Dorset for this species - only The Fleet and Portland Harbour taken as a whole produce a higher max count: non-league to top of the Premiership in less than 30 years! However since then, to pursue the analogy, relegation beckons, with the new sea wall having had a noticeably adverse effect on the numbers along the south shore. Birds are mostly seen along the Stone Pier or at the base of the fort now.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus:
One in Weymouth Harbour 23 Sep 1930, seen down to a few feet by LT Col WR Thompson (DNHAS).

Grey (Red) Phalarope Phalaropus fulicaria :
Four "swimming on the sea off The Nothe"on 19 Nov 1972 (M. Chandler). One in the afternoon of 23 Jan 1975 around the pier (DJF). Seven on 7 Oct 1981 was followed by an amazing influx on 9 Oct 1981 with 26 in The Nothe/Weymouth Bay area, with record max 28 at The Nothe on 10 Oct, with a single on 13 Oct (DBR). One in Weymouth Bay on 24 Sep 1982. Two in Weymouth Bay on 1 Oct 1984 (DBR). One off Preston Beach, 29 Oct 2004. One off the Pavilion, 8 Nov 2005.

(Eurasian) Woodcock Scolopax rusticola :
One flushed in snowy conditions, 11 & 12 Jan 1982; one 13 Nov 1984 (DBR); one 23 Jan 1985, also after snow during the previous two days. One on 15 Oct 1990, and one on 12 Feb 1992 (JS).

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago :
Occasionally flushed from top lawns. Two in freezing weather, 10 Jan 1982;one on passage, 9 April 1984; one in very cold weather, 15 & 16 Jan 1985. 1 on 5 Sep 1989 (JS). One flying north 24 Sep 2001. One was flushed several times from the wetter grass areas on 3 Jan 2002.

Red Knot Calidris canutus :
One Newton's Cove, 4 Sep 1984 (DBR). Amazing flock of 25 on south rocks in 'unbearable' conditions with a biting NE wind, 7 Jan 1985. One in summer plumage with Bar-tailed Godwit on south rocks, 3-4 May 2000, with two there 5-6 May 2000. One flying N with Bar-tailed Godwits on 17 May 2002. Three Newton's Cove, 11 Jan 2003 (DBR).

Sanderling Calidris alba :
Two in Newton's Cove, 2 & 14 Jan 1997. Two flying past the pier towards Portland Harbour on 24 May 2002. Three doing the same on 17 Aug 2004.

Little Stint Calidris minuta :
One in Newton's Cove on the remarkable date of 9 Jan 1985.

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima :
Much decreased. One 22 Apr 1922; five 1 & 7 Jan 1929; record max 10 from 23 Jan - end Mar 1938 (D.R.Rowston in DNHAS). Two on 27 Dec 1961 (DBR). In the early 1970s it was a 'winter resident in small numbers. Max seven, winter 1973-74, max five winter 1974-75' (DJF). In the early 1980s only three records : one on 22 Nov 1982, and three on 11 Jan 1984, with one on 18 Jan 1984. There was one on 26 Nov and two on 3 Dec 1989, followed by one on 20 Jan 1991,but apparently no records since then. A sad loss to the site. One Weymouth Bay record, 27 Oct 1992.

Dunlin Calidris alpina :
An occasional passage and winter visitor, particularly in cold weather. Present 10 - 13 Jan 1982,during snow, record max 16 on 13th; 2-3 on 3 dates in October 1982; one 5 Nov 1984; two on 7-8 Jan 1985. One 14 May, three on 31 July and two more 7 Aug 2000. Another single on 27 July 2001,and a flock of eight past on 26 Aug 2001, with one on 31 Dec 2001.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax :
Three in Newton's Cove on 7 Oct 1982.

Great Skua Catharacta skua :
One seen off the pier, 3 Jan 1979. Record max 11 on 15 Oct 1982, with the record gathering of Arctic Skuas. One at The Nothe 27 Nov 1984. Noted in Weymouth Bay, e.g. one W, 13 Feb 1988, two on 24 Dec 1989. One in Newton's Cove, 4 Jan 1995. 2-3 on 30 Oct 2000 with the Storm-Petrel wreck. One in Weymouth Bay on 9 Feb 2002 (DBR). One Weymouth Bay 2 May 2003 (DBR).

Pomarine Skua (Pomarine Jaeger) Stercorarius pomarinus :
One W past The Nothe, 12 Oct 1982. Noted in Weymouth Bay: one, 10 Oct 1988; one 31 Oct 1998 with a record gathering of Arctic Skuas. One light phase W past the pier in strong southerly winds on 22 May 2002 with a remarkable four heading into southerly winds and rain on 2 May 2003. Singles on 26 Aug, 30 Sep and 7 Oct 2003 (DBR).

Arctic Skua (Parasitic Jaeger) Stercorarius parasiticus :
One Weymouth Bay, 2 Jul 1927 (DNHAS). One off the pier in SW gale, 27 Sep 1982, another single on 12 Oct, with joint record max 13 on 15 Oct. Occasional but regular records from Weymouth Bay, e.g one on 14 Sep 1983; 1E on 26 May 1984; 1-2 on 19 - 21 July 1987; 3-5 on 24-28 Sep 1988. Joint record max 13 on 31 Oct 1998, with one on 8 Nov 1998. 1 on 24 Apr 1999. One on 25 Aug; 1-2 on 9 Oct 2000. Two on 2 May 2003 (DBR). One on 30 Sep 2003.

Long-tailed Skua (Long-tailed Jaeger) Stercorarius longicaudus :
Two museum specimens shot in Weymouth Bay in 1890 were originally identified as Arctic Skuas, but subsequently identified as the first rcord of Long-tailed Skua for Dorset (BOD). Also one in Weymouth Bay on the surprising date of 19 July 1987.

Ivory Gull Pagophila eburnea:
One killed in Weymouth Bay in Nov 1860 (BOD). The first ever record for the site. Would be nice to know if the body was preserved! One in Weymouth Bay on 6 Jun 1931 (given as 1932 in Birds of Dorset). A 'pending' record that hasn't quite got past the Nothe Rarities Committee yet. An account of this surprising record was originally published in The Field - but no description is given (per Phil Read). BB rarity.

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis :
Adult 'seen in' Weymouth Bay some time 21 - 29 Mar 1983. Adult Weymouth Bay, 7 Feb 1984. One adult Weymouth Bay, 29 Jan - 2 Feb 1994. At least three birds, an adult and two 2nd-winters, were in the Weymouth area, frequenting Weymouth Bay at times from 2 Jan - 21 Mar 1995.

Common (Mew) Gull Larus canus :
Possibly declining mainly winter visitor. Recorded all months except June and August (single July record on 18 July 1983). Large numbers come into the gull roost in Weymouth Bay on winter afternoons, but it is unusual to see even one in the morning! The roost seems to have declined dramatically during the 90s - as recently as 1995 5000 were recorded in winter, but since 1998 1000 seems to be the max. Numbers were back up (or better counted!) in 2004 with 6261 in a BTO count.

Herring Gull Larus argentatus :
Recorded all year, and breeds. c1000 max. roost in Weymouth Bay, but more fly past on their way to the breakwater - 6,962 were counted in autumn 1997. This evening flight of gulls seen from the pier makes a truly impressive ornithological spectacle! One pair bred on the Coastguard Cottages in 2003.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis :
Weymouth Bay gets occasional records: ads on 11 Mar & 23 Sep 1992; adult on 19 Oct 1995; four in Feb and three in Oct 1997; singles in Jan, Aug, Sep and Oct 1998. Singles on 5 Apr & 1 Dec 2001. Single on 28 Dec 2004.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus :
Quite scarce here despite a regular presence at Radipole.Most records in spring/summer, but a few noted in winter. Weymouth Bay roost max 296 on 16 Mar 1988.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus :
Recorded all year. c 40 pairs breed on the Portland Breakwater - the best site in Dorset for them. Several hundred can roost in Weymouth Bay (600 max in 1997)

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus :
One, Weymouth Bay, 15 Jan 1934 (DNHAS). A 2nd-year bird sat on the rocks on the early morning in Feb. 1974 (DJF). 1st-yr in Weymouth Bay 27 Jan - 14 Feb 1984. Several records from Weymouth Bay, especially when the klondikers were present in the early 90s. Two ads & two 1st-winters in Weymouth Bay, various dates 22 Jan - 15 Feb 1995. Weymouth Bay/Lodmoor : 1 from 21 to 25 Feb 1997; 1 on 23 Dec 1997. One first-summer in Weymouth Bay 29-30 Mar 1998.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides :
A 2nd-year bird seen off the Nothe Pier in Feb. 1974 (DJF). A succession of records in 1984: Two 1st-yrs 24 Jan - 11 Feb, an ad. 29 Jan - 8 Feb, another 1st-yr on 10 Feb , a 2nd-yr on 14 Feb, with another on 5 Apr. A very reliable bird returned for six winters to the site, from 1986 - 1992, often perching on the 'Welcome to Weymouth' sign above the harbour. Several records from Weymouth Bay, especially when the 'klondikers' were present in the early 90s. Adult Newton's Cove, 9 Nov 1995.

Laughing Gull Larus atricilla :
Two records. The bird present in Weymouth 17 Feb - 6 Oct 1969 was seen in Weymouth Harbour 'at times'. It was the first Dorset record. A first-winter on the pontoons in Weymouth Harbour, 3 Nov 2005, flew off towards Radipole Lake. It returned to roost there and in the harbour for several nights, usually visible by street-light. It was last seen in Weymouth Bay on 15 Nov. BB rarity.

Franklin's Gull Larus pipixcan:
Two records. A second-winter bird roosted in Weymouth Bay most nights during its stay in the area, 13 - 19 Feb and 26 Feb - 2 Mar 2000. The third Dorset record. A first-winter was at Radipole in Mar 2004 and was seen in Weymouth Bay off the seafront on 17 Mar and in the gull roost on 19 Mar. A first-winter was at Radipole in Mar and was seen in the bay off the seafront on 17 Mar and in the gull roost on 19 Mar. Present 16 Mar - 5 Apr, the bird was also seen in Weymouth harbour.The fourth Dorset record. BB rarity.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus :
Apparently still increasing in winter and early spring. DJF recorded up to 4 off the outfall in Feb 1975. Records continued from here in the early 80s, with e.g. a pair displaying on 17 Apr 1982. The Weymouth Bay roost regularly holds the highest concentration of these in Dorset, with max 47 in Mar 2003. My max two juvs in the harbour on 22 Aug 2002.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus :
Numerous July - March, but fewer records in spring (although recently increased in spring). Weymouth Bay roost max 20,000 on 7 Jan 1989.

Bonaparte's Gull Larus philadelphia :
Two records. One found on 2 April 1981 by Martin Cade in a high-flying flock of gulls on Lodmoor was later seen off the Nothe Pier by George Green, and again on 3rd. It remained in the area until 16th. A summer-plumaged adult roosted in the bay off Overcombe on the evening of 21 Apr 2006. BB rarity.

Little Gull Larus minutus :
Possibly declining passage migrant, mostly autumn. DJF records a good max of 15 off the outfall in Feb 1974. My max three off the pier 27 Sep 1982. Nowadays mostly single figures recorded in Weymouth Bay but with the occasional influx: e.g. max of 23 on 31 Oct 1998. 2002 was a bumper year, with 28 bird-days, max 19 in Weymouth Bay on 15 Oct. Record max 57 heading east in Weymouth Bay on 15 Apr 2006.

Sabine's Gull Xema sabini :
One 'Weymouth' in Nov 1893 a possible record. Two imms. lingered off the outfall 16-19 Sep 1980. Two flying west off the Nothe on 12 Oct 1982. One juv. Weymouth Bay, 26 Sep 1988. One juv. occasionally flew into Weymouth Bay from Lodmoor, 13 - 23 Nov 1994.

(Black-legged) Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla :
Recorded sparsely throughout the year, often sheltering from westerly gales in Weymouth Bay. Present continuously 9 Jan - 13 Feb 1984, with 33 on 31 Jan. Recent max 37 west past the pier on 2 May 2003 in southerly gales.. Max count 200 in Weymouth Bay on 25 - 28 Sep 1988.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus :
Two records. A juv. at The Nothe, 12 Aug 1986 moved to Radipole Lake the next day. One ad, Weymouth Bay, 27 Jun 1988. The 15th and 17th county records of the 20th century. BB rarity.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger :
Weymouth Bay - three on 29 Apr 1987; one 21 May 1988; one 14 Sep 1992; two on 7 May 2000; one on 3 Sep 2003. Earliest a single in Weymouth Bay on 20-21 Apr 2004, with one on 14 Aug 2004 (DBR).

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis :
Frequent March - October, with a few - possibly increasing - winter records, e.g. ad. + juv. on 2 Dec 1997. Max 32 on 27 Sep 1983. Earliest one off the south side on 11 Jan 2005. Latest one on 31 Dec 2002 in Weymouth Bay.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo :
An increasing summer visitor - frequent April - October and more recently present most days in the summer. Formerly bred on the breakwater, and more recently on Lodmoor. The latter colony is contributing to a more regular presence and higher numbers in Weymouth Bay in the spring and summer during the last few years, with birds making use of the summer abundance of whitebait. Earliest one on 17 Apr 2002; latest one on 4 Nov 1983. Max. 60 in Weymouth Bay on 26 May 2001. My max. 48 on 17 May 2002.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea :
The odd autumn passage record from Weymouth Bay & Newton's Cove. Max 6 - 12, Weymouth Bay 27 - 29 Sep 1988. Earliest date: two at the Nothe 28 Jul 1987. Latest date: one on and around the pier 11 Nov 2005.

Forster's Tern Sterna forsteri:
One present in the Weymouth area 26 Dec 1995 - 10 Feb 1996. "It was thought that the bird roosted in Weymouth Bay as it was often seen flying in that direction at dusk" (BOD). BB rarity.

Roseate Tern Sterna dougalli :
The odd pair formerly bred in the area, and occasional singles are recorded in Weymouth Bay. Single in Weymouth Bay on 7 & 8 Aug 1982. (DBR) One off The Nothe on 4 Oct 1989 (JS). One fishing in Newton's Cove, 4 Oct 1999 (DBR). One in Weymouth Bay, 16 Apr 2005 (BG).

(Caspian Tern : Ad and Juv present in the Weymouth area 13 - 15 Sep 1991 - any records from Weymouth Bay or Nothe??)

Little Tern Sterna albifrons :
Slowly increasing local breeding species. Around 90 prs now breed annually on the Chesil. It was a scarce bird here in the early 80s, with just one or two seen on a few dates in spring, but more common recently. Record max 44 on 2 May 2001. Earliest 13 Apr 2003 in Weymouth Bay (DBR). Latest 26 Jul 2002.

Little Auk Alle alle :
Occasional singles in winter. November seems to be the best month.

Common Guillemot Uria aalge :
A mostly winter visitor to Weymouth Bay & Newton's Cove in varying numbers. DJF records occasional single birds in 1973-75. In 1983-85 I noted virtual daily records between November and late January, with up to 40 max in Weymouth Bay noted in Dorset Bird Report. But apparently peaked in the 80's & early 90's: a recent max was 10 in Weymouth Bay in 1998. One 1st summer on 2 Jun 2000 was most unusual. My max 6 on 27 Dec 2001 and 7 Aug 2003. Just 9 bird-days in 2001, and 12 bird-days in 2002. One on the rocks in Newton's Cove on 25 Jan 2003 was the first seen to set foot on land.

Razorbill Alca torda :
Pattern of records closely mirrors that of Guillemot, with a peak in the 80's and a recent decline. (DJF only records one oiled bird in two years in the 70's). Usually slightly more in total each year than Guillemot, but more concemtrated, with greater max nos and with far more records during the winter; Guillemot tend to have more records during the spring and summer. However there was an unprecedented series of records in late summer 2000, with up to 5 noted on 5 dates, 12 Aug to 5 Sep 2000. My max 13 on 30 Jan 2005.

Atlantic Puffin Fratercula arctica :
('One W past The Nothe' on 27 Nov 1984, on the same date as a Little Auk reported doing the same (DBR). Although described in the original record as being 'close-in', it was not supported by a description.) One found dead (oiled) in Weymouth Bay, 19 Jan 1985 is the only definite record.

Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle :
An occasional winter visitor to the area, mainly to Portland Harbour. Three shot in Weymouth Bay in the winter of 1855 (BOD). One on 10 Dec 1874. One in Newton's Cove on 15 Dec 1981. One mainly Portland Harbour 7 Jan - 25 Feb 1983 was also seen in Newton's Cove. One Newton's Cove on 9 Feb 1986. One in summer plumage in Weymouth Bay 11 Feb - 14 Mar 1998. One from 23 Dec 2001 to 1 Jan 2002

Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon) Columba livia :
A flock of Feral Pigeons hangs around the Fish Diseases (CEFAS) labs and Hope Square - and seems to have done so from time immemorial.

Stock Dove Columba oenas :
A real change in the pattern of records in the last 20 years. Formerly very much a winter/early spring bird, with the odd autumn record, though autumn brought larger flocks. Birds used to settle in winter, and roost with the Woodpigeons. In the last few years very much a late autumn (Nov & Dec) speciality, with flocks flying over and none settling. Particularly numerous in spring 1983, when there were 29 bird-days, contrasting with just two in spring 2000, none in 2001 and three in 2002. Max c200 counted in c 2hrs on passage, N & E on 8 Nov 2003, on a day with a large Wood Pigeon passage.

Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus :
Resident in increasing numbers, and breeds. DJF records 'small numbers' in the early 1970s. My early 1980s counts showed 5-10 per day in spring. In 2000 the spring counts are more usually 20-30 per day, with spring maxima of 40+ - a big increase. Counts in excess of 50 settled birds were frequent in the early 80s and in autumn 1999, with over 100 more recently. Autumn can produce spectacular numbers on visible migration, usually in late Oct or early Nov, and these don't seem to have changed over the years, although recent maxima of c1700 in c 2hrs on 8 Nov 2003 and c 3400 on 1 Nov 2005 were both unprecedented.

European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur :
Much declined, perhaps not surprisingly in view of the decline of this species both as a breeder and passage bird nationally. In the early 80s regular, with a few recorded annually on spring and autumn passage. The best year was 1983, with two bird-days in spring and six in the autumn. Very pleased to have records in 2000 (8th & 12th May). Only one since then, 9 Oct 2006.

(Eurasian) Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto :
Resident in rapidly increasing numbers, and breeds. DJF records in the 70s that 'birds from nearby.. sometimes wander'. In the early 1980s, 2-3 birds regularly present. In 2000-2001, up to 9 birds seen in spring, with probably 3 pairs nesting. In 2002-2004 counts regularly into double figures with up to 4 pairs breeding. Max 20 counted coming out of a holm oak roost on 30 Nov 2004.

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri:
One flying over west on 15 Apr 2003. One settled briefly on 8 & 9 Sep 2003.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus :
Five records of single birds: on 28 April & 12 May 1975 (DJF), 19 Apr & 9 Aug 1983 (JDM), with one juv. from 4 to 6 Sep 1990 (JS).

Barn Owl Tyto alba :
One was rescued from mobbing Carrion Crows in the CEFAS car park on 18 Oct 2005.(JL)

Little Owl Athene noctua :
Used to be seen on the Nothe Fort occasionally in the early 1980s. Recorded 9 Jan, 7 & 20 Mar 1984, 25 Oct 1985. One 90s record, a single on 19 Oct 1995 (JS).

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus :
One, 'at the Nothe', 1 Nov 1938 (D.R.Rowston in DNHAS). One over Weymouth Bay on 10 Nov 2002 (DBR). One Weymouth Bay, 27 Dec 2004 (DBR).

Common Swift Apus apus :
Noted most days during the summer. Earliest a single on 23 Apr 2003; latest one on 21 Sep 1995 (JS). Max. 59 on 22 July 2000.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis :
An infrequent but regular autumn & early winter visitor with about 5 - 8 records a year. The best year was the very cold 1984/85 with 9 records Nov-Jan. Max two on 22 Sep 2003 and 25 Sep 2004.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla:
One on 14 Sep 1982. I recorded a major fall of over 50 Phylloscopus warblers that day, in a light S wind, together with both Spotted and Pied Flycatcher, Whitethroat and Redstart, but, gallingly, didn't get the Wryneck ! Also one 13 Sep 1993.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major :
Seemingly increasing, but still a scarce less-than-annual visitor. These breed in the north Weymouth woodlands, but the species rarely strays to the coast, so that records here could be of real migrants rather than local wanderers. A female, 10 & 12 Sep 1985 was the first record of presumably a post-breeding disperser. This was followed by singles in Sep, Oct and Dec during the 90s. A juv on 28 Jul and again on 22 Aug 2002 was the first summer record, and the first sign of breeding in the vicinity. A fem on 17 Mar 2003 was the first spring record, followed by two in Oct, making 2003 a record year.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis :
Has declined locally, possibly related to the increasing urbanisation nearby. DJF records that 'at least one visits the Nothe each day to feed', in 1973-75. In the early 80s, there were occasional birds 'yaffling' in spring, with the odd autumn record, and a male, 12 & 14 Dec 1997. The latter could be migrants, but it is likely that most records are of local wanderers. More typical recent records have been in Jul & Aug of post-breeding dispersal birds, both juvs and adults.

(Eurasian) Sky Lark Alauda arvensis :
Migrants fly over in variable nos, usually only on a few days in autumn, and formerly in cold weather, when they occasionally land - both January 1982 and 1985 had records of settled birds. The peak is usually in late Oct or early Nov. The only summer record one on the land with Wheatears on 25 Aug 2001. Max 46 over in c 2hrs on 20 Oct 2001.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia :
A scarce spring and autumn passage migrant, with usually less than 10 bird-days per year. Earliest 19 Mar 2005; latest 23 Sep 1982. Spring max 6, 18 Apr 1985; autumn max 20, 9 Sep 1983.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica :
Noted frequently April - October, with the odd March and November record. Earliest 28 Mar 2005; latest 11 Nov 2002. Spring max 65 in one hour, 8 May 2005; autumn max 447 in 2 hours, 17 Sep 2002. In some years (about half the years observed) present through the summer, perhaps indicating breeding nearby.

(Common) House Martin Delichon urbicum :
Breeds close by, and noted gathering nesting material from the Nothe. Possibly increasing. DJF notes only one record in the early 70s, but does remark that this cannot present a true picture. I noted them most days May-August 1982, and they are certainly a constant presence in summer in recent years. Earliest 17 Apr 2004; latest a remarkable record on 30 Nov 1983. Max 93 on 24 Sep 1985.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava :
Seems to be decreasing froma regular annual to a sporadic visitor. A few seen mostly during post-breeding dispersal and autumn passage. The only spring/breeding season records include one on 1 May 1975, an ad. fem.on 2 June 1987, a juv. on 30 June 1983 and a male on 7 May 2002. On return passage, two 13 Sep 1982, two on 23 Aug 1983, two 18 Sep 1983, and two 13 Sep 1985. One on 4 & 5 Oct 1986, one on 12 Sep 1990, one on 8 Sep 1995 (JS). two on 23 and one on 25 Aug 2001. Record max 10 over on 27 Aug 2001.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea :
Seems to have declined recently. DJF records 'one or two often present on the foreshore in the winter months'. I noted a similar pattern in the early 80s with records in Nov & Dec 1981, up to two birds noted 9 Sep 1982 - 28 Feb 1983; up to three from 6 Sep 1983 - 19 Mar 1984; up to three Oct 1984 - 26 Mar 1985, and again up to three in Sep 1985. One on 23 Jan 1997, and Just one noted on several days in autumn 1997, and max two on 2 Nov 1999, with the last record on 31 Dec 1999. Max 12 flying over on 11 Sep 2000.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrelli:
Apparently increasing as a resident, and may breed. In the 70s and 80s present in small nos (up to 10) during the winter, with numbers swelled by migrants, especially in the autumn. Now its presence continues through the breeding season. Usually peaks in October, with max 67 on 4 Oct 2003 in an hour and three-quarters. Record count on ground 50 in Newton's Cove, 4th Oct 1999 (DBR).
White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba :
Nine spring records - singles 28 Mar 1984, 13 & 25 May 2000, 14 May 2001, 7 May 2002, 20 Mar 2003, 7 Apr 2005 and 26 Apr 2006. One winter record : 'at least one', Newton's Cove, early Feb 1974 (DBR) - the first wintering record for Dorset, and only one of five Dorset winter records in total.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis :
Occasional migrants noted, mostly flying over. Most records in the one August I visited the site regularly. Spring records include: one 23 Apr 1975 (DJF), one 14 May 1982 and one 4 May 1983. Two on 10 Mar 1990 were the earliest recorded both here and in the county! A total of 22 on four dates 19-28 August 1983, with max 10 over on 22nd. One to three birds most years on a few days in September, with the latest one on 30 Sep 2000.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis :
Formerly 1-4 birds present most winter days Nov - Jan, with numbers tailing off in Feb/Mar, and with up to 10 in cold weather, e.g. Jan 1985. However, much scarcer in winter in recent years, with records on just a handful of winter days each year. Much more numerous on autumn passage, with max 157 over in an hour on 11 Oct 2004.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus :
Resident breeding species, numbers possibly increasing in winter, although breeding birds may be difficult to see on the fort. Winter counts typically 10-15 Nov - Mar, though the max count of 23 on 7 Feb 1984 was exceptional. Breeding season counts typically around 5/6. Record count 26 on 8 Jan 2002. This count was the highest from any single site in Dorset in 2002.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta :
One in Newton's Cove, 15 - 16 Dec 1982 (DBR). Possibly the same bird in Newton's Cove, 4 Jan 1983 (DBR). One on 8 Feb 1984 appeared with higher-than-usual nos of Rock Pipits. This was a time of rain and NW gales, so that these might all have been locally wintering birds finding shelter along the south rocks here.

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor :
One on 18 Oct 1988. The second Dorset record (1st in Wareham Forest, Aug 1985). BB rarity.

(Winter) Wren Troglodytes troglodytes :
Resident, breeds. No obvious change in records through much of the year - possibly increasing, with my estimate of 10 singing males in spring 2000 and 2002. Max 18 on 22 Oct 2000 showing a possible autumn passage. Joint max 18 on 22 Mar 2004, with 13 singing males - perhaps a continuing increase.

Hedge Accentor (Dunnock) Prunella modularis :
Resident, breeds, with nine or ten singing males most years. No obvious change in records through the year. Numbers very similar to Wren. Max. count 20 on 22 Mar 2001.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus :
One in mid-Oct 1991 (JS). Three - two males and a female - on 1 Apr 2004.

(Common) Blackbird Turdus merula :
Resident, breeds. There used to be an obvious peak in winter, but spring numbers seem to have increased recently. Some evidence of an autumn passage. Max 32 on 14 Nov 1987 and 16 Oct 2005.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris :
Formerly a cold-weather visitor, but now more often seen on migration, though still not every year. Earliest in autumn on 16 Oct 2005, with autumn max three on 17 Oct 2004. Latest in spring 15 Apr 2004, with spring max three on 1 Apr 2004. Max 50+ on 10 Jan 1982 after snow.

Redwing Turdus iliacus :
Regular in autumn in small nos - although many must go over the top at night - with usually lower nos in spring. Much more frequent than Fieldfare, and usually in larger numbers in cold weather. Max count; c400 on 8 Jan 1985 (JS), then 103 on 22 Jan 1985, again a couple of days after snow. Earliest in autumn 11 Oct 2002 amongst a Song Thrush movement.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos :
Resident, breeds (c 2 pairs). Numbers increase in winter (c10/day) and drop in spring (c2-3/day). The Nothe often remains frost-free when it freezes inland,attracting these along with the other winter thrushes. Max 121 going over in an hour on 16 Oct 2005.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus :
Declining. There were 4 in Jan-June 1982, 3 in 1983, 12 in 1984, and 43 in 1985. Max 3 on several dates in 1985. Five records in 2000, three in 2001 and just two in both 2002 and 2003.

(European) Robin Erithacus rubecula :
Resident, breeds (c 5 pairs), with noticeably more birds in autumn & winter. Has increased since the early 80s, especially in winter 1-5 birds/day in the early 80s, compared with 10-15 birds/day in Dec- Jan 2000. Max count 34 on 4 Oct 2000.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros :
The 'signature-species' of The Nothe, at least to Dorset birders. A long history of records of this species goes back to at least 1922 : 'Regular winter visitor in small nos from end of Oct to middle of Mar' (DNHAS). Usually up to four birds can be found, usually along the south shore or around the base of the fort, each winter - one of the most reliable sites in Dorset for them. Usual dates early Nov - early Mar. Max 10 on 12 Nov 1982 (DBR). Earliest in autumn 7 Oct 2005 (JS). Latest spring record a male on 16 Apr 2004.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus :
Regular passage migrant. 8 spring and 15 autumn bird-days 1982-85. 6 spring and 11 autumn records, 2000-2002. Earliest 4 Apr 2002. Latest spring 14 May 1985. Earliest autumn 21 Jul 1983. Latest passage 25 Oct 1984, but extraordinary winter record of a male 4 - 23 Dec 1976. See Pied Flycatcher for a comparison of numbers.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra </