============================================= || || 18th March 2018 || || News of Lincolnshire Wildlife || || LNU Website: || http://lnu.org/ || ============================================ In this issue..... 1. Readers' hints, tips and requests 2. Wildlife Highlights 3. Wildlife reports from around the county 4. NNRs including RSPB and LWT Reserves 5. Bardney Limewoods NNR 6. Other Reserve Reports and Highlights 7. Sending in Reports - contributors please read! 8. Contact information 9. Notes about these wildlife reports 10. Bulletin publicity policy 11. Events Diary 12. ...and finally..... ============================================ Reports here are open and are available to county recorders of the Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union, the Lincolnshire Bird Club and Lincolnshire Environmental Record Centre [LERC]. Text versions of past Wildnews Bulletins back to Feb 2009: http://rogerparsons.info/bulletinportal.html Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union or any associated organisations. The Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union Bulletin is being read by over 1000 people and we are keen to encourage even more readers to subscribe. Please use the "forward to a friend" link at the end of every LNU Bulletin and invite new readers to give it a try. We really need your help with this. Please contact the Editor to contribute articles or reports. E-mail: old.museum@yahoo.co.uk ============================================ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1. Readers' hints, tips and requests ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *** Editor writes... *** I was a tad under the weather last week and forgot to add any highlighting. Sorry about that. Readers tell me that they do appreciate this feature, so I will try to remember in future. Another Beast from the East on the way? Be prepared! https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/features/43360325 Lincolnshire Environmental Awards. Are you applying? Deadline for applications: Saturday 31 March 2018 http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/awards 6 readers have had their addresses "cleaned" this week. See: 12. ...and finally... Are you a Barn Owl enthusiast? If so you should note that the Len Pick Trust has activated their owl nest box camera. Bob Sheppard told me about this a few weeks back but we have been waiting for the action to start. A pair of barn owls is using the box from time to time, as the growing number of pellets will confirm. Bookmark the URL and make a visit part of your daily browsing. Should be interesting. http://www.lenpicktrust.org.uk/owl-project/4593449091 The LNU Executive Committee decided to postpone and reschedule this year's AGM of Saturday 3rd March. The new date for the AGM is now: 7th April 2018. This will be followed by the Presidential Address by Richard Jefferson: ‘The natural history & ecology of grasses in Lincolnshire’. https://lnu.org/meetings/indoor-meetings/2018-03-03/ As usual I have included a selection of topical links. Most were sent in by readers. Suggestions for interesting links are always welcome. See: Stephen Hawking: Visionary physicist dies aged 76 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-43396008 Sir Isaac Newton tree 'clones' to inspire Loughborough students http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-43385897 Feed the birds, but be aware of risks, say wildlife experts http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-43349781 Microplastics are 'littering' riverbeds http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-43363545 Norfolk snowy owl attracts Harry Potter fans and birdwatchers http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-43373447 Red squirrel numbers boosted by predator http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-43308588 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/science-environment-43317564/red-squirrels-boosted-by-pine-martens Bird Photographer of the Year 2018 – in pictures https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2018/mar/08/bird-photographer-of-the-year-2018-in-pictures Thank you for all your contributions this week. Roger old.museum@yahoo.co.uk *** LNU Events Diary *** LNU events are listed below in section 11. For LNU meetings, see: https://lnu.org/meetings/ [Note: Unless otherwise stated, Indoor Meetings are held on Saturdays at the Whisby Education Centre, Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln and start at 2pm.] Field Meetings 2018 - details on: https://lnu.org/meetings/field-meetings/ Swinn Wood LWT Reserve – Sunday 29th April 2018 Greetwell Hollow LWT Reserve – Sunday 27th May 2018 Shearman’s Wath / West Ashby Pits – Saturday 23rd June 2018 South Ormsby Estate – Saturday 7th July 2018 Raithby Beck Wood – Saturday 4th August 2018 Sutton Bridge area – Sunday 2nd September 2018 Swinn Wood LWT Reserve – Sunday 14th October 2018 Next meeting: Swinn Wood LWT Reserve – Sunday 29th April 2018 https://lnu.org/meetings/field-meetings/2018-04-29/ Swinn Wood LWT Reserve, Northwest of Alford Access courtesy of Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust 12.00 for 13.00 start. Meet and park at wood entrance which is at TF421777. Nearest postcode: LN13 0ED which is east of the wood. NB. Very restricted parking so please car share where possible. Likely need for reverse parking along entrance track (first in, last out policy). Verges near entrance are Roadside Nature Reserves so please no parking on them, especially if arriving earlier than 12.00. Nearest public toilets in Alford town centre. Habitats: Ancient woodland with ponds and ditches. Leader: Brian Hedley 07989 665794 brian_hedley@hotmail.com *** Find the Grid Reference - don't forget - it's important *** Grab a Grid Reference: http://www.bnhs.co.uk/focuson/grabagridref/html/index.htm UK Grid Reference Finder: http://www.gridreferencefinder.com/ *** Bulletin Bookshelf - free in return for an LNU donation *** I am having a weed of my "library" and for starters offer 2 books that may be of interest to some readers – free if you donate £5+ -ish per book to LNU. Both titles can be “Googled”. [I will be starting with unusual stuff and get on to birds and botany later!] Terrestrial Acari of the British Isles. Volume One. Evans, Sheals and Macfarlane. 1961. Hard cover. Dust jacket. Good condition. Est Value £10-25 Evolution in the Genus Drosophila. Patterson and Stone. 1952. First printing. 1952. Hard cover. Fair condition. Est Value £10-25 Contact Roger old.museum@yahoo.co.uk [I can bring them along to the LNU AGM if you are interested.] *** Love Lincs Plants - Updates *** Here is the first of hopefully many opportunities for Bulletin Readers to become involved in the Love Lincs Plants project. Aidan Neary - LoveLincsPlants Project Officer writes: Free plant identification and herbarium collection training sessions at Whisby Education Centre led by Fred Rumsey and Kath Costello from the Natural History Museum. There are four spaces left on the Friday 23rd March session at Whisby for 18-35 year olds. The Thursday session is full. Session 1 (over 35s): Thursday 22nd March 2018. 10am to 4pm. Now full. Session 2 (18-35 year olds): Friday 23rd March 10am to 4pm. 4 places left. The main focus of the session will be on plant collection, pressing and drying techniques as well plant identification tips. An excellent opportunity to get involved with the creation of our new Lincolnshire herbarium (#LoveLincsPlants). To book on please ask interested trainee to send an email to: Aidan Neary aneary@lincstrust.co.uk Love Lincs Plants Twitter feed https://twitter.com/LoveLincsPlants Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union Twitter feed https://twitter.com/LincsNaturalist? Natural History Museum Twitter feed https://twitter.com/nhm_botany?lang=en Sir Joseph Banks Society http://www.joseph-banks.org.uk/news-events/lincolnshire-plants-project/ Lincoln University School of Life Sciences blog https://lifesciences.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk/2016/09/30/heritage-lottery-funding-to-safeguard-lincolnshire-plants/ *** Whisby Natural History Workshops - diaries out! *** Richard Davidson writes: I've just finished the summer program for the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Lincoln Group which includes the workshops at Whisby this summer: At Whisby Nature Park near Lincoln, in the Lafarge Education Building from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. Free of charge. Refreshments included. Places are limited due to the number of microscopes available. I've got two bookings already. Prior booking essential via Richard Davidson on 01522 525725 or Email rel.davidson@btinternet.com Find out more about the various subjects from our local experts. Mining Bees - June 2nd - David Shepherd Hoverflies - July 28th - Phil Porter & David Denman Ground Beetles - August 11th - Alan Lazenby Plant Galls - September 8th - Jan Rousseau Bryophytes - October 6th - Steven Heathcote. Fungi - November 3rd - Ray Halstead *** Bryophyte meeting *** Steven Heathcote writes: Snipe Dales, Lincolnshire – Saturday 17th March 2018 We will be meeting to record Lincolnshire's bryophytes again, the last time before the main LNU program starts. This month's destination is Snipe Dales, a semi-natural wet valley system. http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/snipe-dales Parking and the meeting location is in the reserve car park which is signposted from B1195 Horncastle-Spilsby road (TF330682). Meeting time is 10AM. There is a small charge for the car park apparently. We are interested in rumours of Sphagnum and a 1972 record of Fountain Apple-moss (one of two post-1930 records for this species in Lincolnshire). We plan to stay out most of the day so please bring warm/dry clothes and a packed lunch. Anyone is welcome for part or all of the day. Please let me know if you plan to attend so I can make contact if there are any last-minute changes due to weather (steven.heathcote@gmail.com). Reports from previous meetings can now be found on the following website: https://lincsbryology.wordpress.com/ *** March Night Sky *** Paul Money's 'Monthly Night Sky' webpage will be found on: http://www.astrospace.co.uk/Astrospace/monthly-sky/monthlynightsky.html LINCOLNSHIRE WOLDS WALKING FESTIVAL Helen Gamble writes: Saturday 19 May TO Sunday 3 June 2018. Co-ordinated by Heritage Lincolnshire, in partnership with Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service, the Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival remains one of the largest, and best-attended, events of its kind in the UK. This year there are 104 walks on offer, with a varied programme with something for all ages and abilities, providing a great way for everyone to experience a beautiful landscape, its culture and heritage, whilst enjoying some healthy exercise in good company. Check out the website for further information and to download the brochure www.woldswalkingfestival.co.uk/ *** Faith and the Environment Conference 2018: Climate Change and the Coast *** Revd Leslie Batty writes: The conference will consider the significance of climate change in relation to sea-level rise and storm surges and their impacts on our coastal county, wider society and economy, and also globally, through increased flooding and erosion. There will also be consideration of how, as people of faith, we might respond as we seek to love the planet and its people. Date: Saturday, 12th May 2018 (10am–4.30pm) Venue: St Giles’ Church, Lamb Gardens, Lincoln LN2 4EJ. (Parking is available and it is close to bus route 5 from the new Lincoln Transport Hub). Speakers from Lincoln University, Environment Agency, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, Lincoln School of Theology and others. The conference is open to those of all faiths and none. There will be opportunity to network with one another and attend a variety of stalls. For more information and tickets, please follow one of these links: https://www.lincoln.anglican.org/news/looking-ahead-faith-and-the-environment-2018 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/faith-the-environment-conference-2018-climate-change-and-the-coast-tickets-43403275365 *** Nettleham Woodland Trust *** Su Coleman writes: Nettleham Woodland Trust seeks Recorders for Ashing Lane Nature Reserve The Ashing Lane Nature Reserve is growing well and we are delighted to say that we have four years and nine months of monthly bird reports available on the website: http://www.nettlehamwoodlandtrust.co.uk/detailed-bird-observations.html We also have some very thorough moth reports from the last three summers http://www.nettlehamwoodlandtrust.co.uk/moth-observations.html Do you live near Dunholme and want to help us with recording other species? We would be really delighted to get information (particularly regularly) from our visitors. If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please contact the Acting Secretary, Su Colman, by email s+nwt@smmjv.com *** Natural History and Geology Section of the Scunthorpe Museum Society. *** Section Secretary needed. With the approaching retirement of the current secretary in October this year, the "section" is looking for a successor. The role would suit a person with good organisational skills to carry out the usual tasks of running a voluntary group. For more information contact Keith Scarrott who can explain what is involved. Tel: 01724 762098 *** Scunthorpe Museum Society Natural History and Geology Section *** http://scunthorpemuseumsociety.btck.co.uk/ Keith Scarrott writes: The Natural History and Geology Section of the Scunthorpe Museum Society. On Monday, 12th March next we have the very welcome return of our well- known local ornithologist Graham Catley to give us an illustrated talk that he has entitled "Fifty Years of Lincolnshire Birding". Graham's lifelong love of birding has taken him far and wide but he has devoted most of his time to studying and photographing the birds in our Lincolnshire county. The high quality of his photography is well-known and has been used in some pres- tigious magazines. Graham is unique to our area and is giving us a unique talk. Don't miss it! Our meetings are held in the St. Bernadette's Church Hall, Ashby Road, Scunthorpe, North Lincs., DN16 2RS, which is opposite the Priory Hotel on Ashby Road. Our meetings start at 7.15pm and ALL ARE WELCOME. There is no entry charge but adonation bowl is provided. Light refreshments are available at the mid-talk break for a small charge. There is a large free car park at the church. For further details contact Keith Scarrott on 01724 762098. *** Local RSPB links: *** Grimsby & District RSPB http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/grimsby Martin Francis writes: The RSPB Grimsby Local Group's next trip is to Old Moor on Sunday 18th March, leaving Millman's Coach depot in Wilton Road, Humberston at 7.30am and returning by about 6.30pm. Booking is essential The Group's next meeting is at 7.30pm on Monday 19th March at Holy Trinity Parish Hall (formerly called Corpus Christi Community Centre), corner of Machray Place, Grimsby Road, Cleethorpes DN35 7AE. Graham Catley, (ornithological consultant, photographer and serious local patch birder), will give an illustrated talk about the birds of Vancouver Island and Western British Columbia There will also be refreshments and a raffle. Entry is £4, payable at the door. All are welcome. You don't have to be a member of the RSPB to attend this talk, or to go on the trip. For more information, or to book the trip, please contact Martin Francis (Group Leader) at martin.francis2@ntlworld.com (preferred) or on (01472) 883436" S Lincs RSPB http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southlincolnshire Lincoln RSPB http://www.lincolnrspb.org.uk/ *** Alford & Mablethorpe Branch LWT *** https://www.facebook.com/LWT-Alford-Mablethorpe-Area-Group-175413729474673/ *** Barton Area Group LWT *** https://www.facebook.com/LWT.Barton.Group Adrian White writes: Barton Area Group invite you to join in with our March events.  All welcome, Trust membership not necessary. All our events are free although donations are welcomed! Saturday 17th March Tophill Low reserve A full day trip to this East Yorks. reserve to see the wintering wildfowl and raptors. Warm clothing and waterproof footwear essential. Hot drinks available on site but bring your own food. Meet at Ness End Farm car park, Far Ings, for a 9am start. Contact; Adrian White (01724 732152) for details. Wednesday 21st March "Costa Rica and Panama" A talk by local photographer and tour guide Mandy West about her trips  to these two bird-rich countries. Meet at Ness End Farm centre for a 7:30pm start. Contact Adrian White (01724 732159) for details. Refreshments available. Donations welcome. To get to Ness End Farm from Barton-upon-Humber, travel west along Far Ings Road, go past the brown signs for Far Ings visitor centre and past the turning for the hotel. The road narrows and after 300 yards Ness Farm car park is on your right (satnav post code DN18 5RG).  *** Grimsby & Cleethorpes LWT *** www.grimsbywildlifetrust.org.uk Carolyn Davis writes: On Monday 12th March 2018 the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust invite you to their next indoor meeting where farmers Neville and Maureen Turner will be speaking about the history and work of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. This will take place in Grimsby Town Hall and starts at 7.30pm. There will be a Trust goods stall, raffle and tea & coffee available. Admission £3, all are welcome. For further details contact Jennie Redpath - 01472 502858. *** Horncastle & Woodhall Spa area group LWT *** https://www.facebook.com/hwsag/ *** Lincoln LWT *** Richard Davidson writes: Lincoln Area Group Talk March 15th: The World of the Red Fox Dr Carl Soulsbury (senior science lecturer for the school of Life Sciences at Lincoln University) looks at the Red Fox in Britain and elsewhere, a subject he has studied for many years. Talk at Whisby Nature Park in the Lafarge Education Building starting at 7.30 pm. Admission £2.50 which includes refreshments. *** Louth area group LWT *** http://lwt-lag.org.uk/ *** LWT Area Groups *** http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/area-groups *** More Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Events *** http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/whats-on ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 2. Wildlife Highlights ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *** Bird News from Rare Bird Alert *** Rare Bird Alert has kindly given permission to reproduce reports. A big thank you from us all. Interested readers should have a look at the RBA website: http://www.rarebirdalert.co.uk/ I have adapted RBA pager data/information for the Bulletin by eliminating or consolidating repeated messages. Note - I have been leaving out late/historical reports to save going back to re-do entries. From now on I shall squeeze in important reports, marking them with a * to indicate their lateness. 8/3 Red-necked Grebe, Covenham reservoir Red-necked Grebe, 30 Scaup*, Cut End, River Witham mouth, Boston Red-necked Grebe on sailing pit, 3 Scaup, Slavonian Grebe on pit 25, Barton on Humber GP [=clay pits] Great White Egret at Candy Farm. Wroot Mealy Redpoll 1w fem on feeder at Park Road, Willingham- by-Stow 9/3 30 Scaup, Slavonian Grebe, at Cut End, River Witham mouth, SE of Boston Hen Harrier male over saltmarsh, Frampton Marsh Water Pipit, Woodlark flew over East Halton Skitter Woodlark flew north over East Dunes, Gibraltar Point 10/3 5 Sand Martins at dusk, Baston Fen Great White Egret, Candy Corner, Wroot Great White Egret, Boultham Mere Iceland Gull ad in field, Saltfleetyby Hen Harrier male, Gibraltar Point 11/3 2+ Sand Martins, Scaup drk, Deeping Lakes 2 Great White Egrets on River Witham near 29km marker between Tattershall Bridge and Kirkstead Bridge near Woodhall Spa Mealy Redpoll 1w fem on feeder at Park Road, Willingham- by-Stow - trapped and ringed 5 Pale-bellied Brent Geese, Kirton Marsh Bewick's Swan ad in field north of Huttoft Bank Pit 12/3 50 Twite, Freiston Shore 119 Woodcock, Gibraltar Point 13/3 2 Hen Harriers, 1 male, Kittiwake ad on North Scrape, Frampton Marsh Water Pipit, Scaup 1w drk, Middlemarsh Wetlands, west of Skegness Hen Harrier male, Gibraltar Point 2 Sand Martins over car park, Willow Tree Fen 14/1 Iceland Gull ad on beach south of Crook Bank, Saltfleetby Rare Bird Alert website: http://www.rarebirdalert.co.uk/ [Please mention the Bulletin if you decide to subscribe.] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 3. Wildlife news from around the county ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *** The Roger Goy Column *** Remembering Roger Goy's wildlife information work. [Roger died on 6th March 2009, aged 61.] ROAD KILLS? Every drive is a transect! Reports welcome. Hedgehog numbers 'down by half', warn wildlife groups http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-42959766 Your sightings and roadkill records please. *** County Wildlife Reports From Readers *** Thanks to our regular contributors across the county. Much appreciated. We rely on readers to send in their observations and we welcome records from everyone, experts or beginners. Please keep your reports coming. DON'T FORGET - TIME FLIES! Please include the year in your reports in case they are copied and thus lose their context. BARDNEY The Green TF119694 R & A Parsons 09/03/2018 Pair of greenfinches on feeders today - first time I have noted them here. I recently started feeding sunflower kernels - a connection perhaps? BOSTON 11/03/2018 Kathleen Pearson First Brimstone of the year in the garden today. A less than usual visitor yesterday was a Jay. DEEPING LAKES Venue: Deeping Lakes LT Nature Reserve Date: 07/03/2018 Time: 1315 - 1530 Observer: Ian Gordon Weather : Sunny periods, mild Birds: Blackbird Black-headed Gull Blue Tit Bullfinch Buzzard Canada Goose Carrion Crow Common Gull Coot Cormorant Gadwall Goldeneye Goosander Great Crested Grebe Great Spotted Woodpecker Great Tit Green Woodpecker Greenfinch Herring Gull Jackdaw Lesser Black-backed Gull Little Egret Little Grebe Magpie Mallard Moorhen Mute Swan Oystercatcher Pheasant Pintail Pochard Red Kite Shoveler Smew Teal Tufted Duck Wigeon Woodpigeon Yellow-legged Gull IRBY DALES – A46 (Grid reference TA1804) 11/3/18 Jon Drakes Noted whilst driving along the A46 near to Irby Dales was a group of five Buzzards soaring over an adjacent field. KEELBY (Grid reference TA1610) 10/3/18 Jon Drakes Species recorded whilst carrying out the weekly Garden Bird Watch for the BTO in our back garden were: Blackbird 2 Black-headed Gull 20 Collared Dove 14 Dunnock 2 House Sparrow 15 Robin 1 Starling 10 Woodpigeon 3 Chaffinch 1 Greylag Goose 7 overflying in SE direction. NETTLEHAM TF01357549 Su Colman 13/03/18 10:30 Two buzzards overhead calling 12:20 First Bombus hypnorum of the year - visited the primulas briefly STALLINGBOROUGH – HOBSON WAY (Grid reference TA2113) 9/3/18 Jon Drakes Noted whilst at work were the following species: Carrion Crow Herring Gull Kestrel 2 Mistle Thrush Sparrowhawk 1 Skylark ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 4. NNRs including RSPB and LWT Reserves ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ RSPB Reserves: http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/collections/thewash_northnorfolk.aspx LWT Reserves: http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/wildlife/reserves ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FAR INGS NNR https://www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-Of-Far-Ings-National-Nature-Reserve/186876774685595 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ GIBRALTAR POINT NNR See: Gibraltar Point Bird Observatory blog. http://gibraltarpointbirdobservatory.blogspot.co.uk/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SALTFLEETBY THEDDLETHORPE DUNES NNR including DONNA NOOK http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/reserves/saltfleetby-theddlethorpe-dunes http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/reserves/donna-nook-nnr http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/38015?category=59026 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes NNR Report 5th – 13th March 2018 Contributors: - Matt Blissett, Nige Lound, Cliff Morrison, Peter & Janet Roworth & John Walker   Daily Notes and Wildlife Sightings: 6th           single barn owl hunting alongside saltmarsh and dunes near Paradise and a short-eared owl hunting over saltmarsh near outer dunes, a fine male yellowhammer was calling from a hawthorn bush near Black bridge and at least 24 twite flew from scrub and out to the saltmarsh near Sea View and 2 whooper swans flew over dunes. A red-necked grebe was feeding close to the shore amongst a melee of diving gulls feeding on floating marine life. 7th           Single lapwing flew south-east high over dunes, great spotted woodpecker near Sea View and 6 whooper swans flew off Rimac lagoon late afternoon. 13 wigeon, a great-crested grebe and a red-breasted merganser flew north at sea out from Rimac and a lone barnacle goose was accompanying the Brent goose flock. A frustratingly distant immature Iceland gull was on the beach north of Rimac amongst hundreds of more common gulls still enjoying the remains of the recent washout. 16 fieldfare were also at Rimac. 8th           11 lapwing flew north-west over Sea View, a fine male merlin was hunting over the saltmarsh and 90 pink-footed geese flew NW 9th           2 mistle thrushes and 12 fieldfare in hedgerow near Paradise, 90+ pink-footed geese seen to rise from beyond Elm House Farm and fly N and later 30 more birds flew over the area. Two tree sparrows on bird feeder at Sea View. A yellowhammer was in song at Brickyard, 3 bullfinch were in the Churchill Lane area and 6 fieldfare were around Rimac. On the sea were singles of red-throated diver and great-crested grebe. C.80 common newts in pond at Seaview. 11th         3 barn owls hunting Churchill Lane to Rimac and 1 little owl calling. 2 bees on house wall thought to be B.hypnorum. 10th         A group of 8 shorelarks present on the outer beach, some of these birds were coming into breeding plumage. 12th         Rain all day – 14.5mm recorded. 120 pinkfooted geese flew north early on. 13th         The Great Eau is in full flow. 27 curlew feeding in grassland near Paradise, 6 tufted ducks on the lagoon and male hen harrier hunting over the outer dunes on the edge of the saltmarsh. 22 whooper swans came in to Rimac roost.   Following the severe weather of the previous week, large numbers gulls and waders were present on the beaches to taking advantage of the significant wash-outs of marine life. Up to 3,500 knot, 500 dunlin and 250 sanderling, 3,000 common gulls, 400 hearing gulls and 100 great black-gulls were on the beach, particularly between Churchill Lane and Crook Bank. By the 13th, most of the birds had moved on, with only a few hundred common gulls left. Up to 78 cormorants were counted on most days, with a number of these birds beginning to develop summer plumage typical of Continental birds.   There is a flock of 17 linnets and another of 14 twite on the saltings, but as usual great care is required in identifying each species, with the nasal calls of the twite being the easiest way. Lapwings have been moving south in small numbers all week, up to a maximum of 79 per hour. Meadow pipits are uncommon winter visitors to the coast here, but small numbers of returning birds have been present along the coast during the week and on the 13th March, the first pair took up residence, with the male display singing and flighting. Several pairs of skylarks also singing on territory on the outer dunes. The first blackbirds were also singing on local territories this week as well.   Blackbirds, including females have been moving back to the coast all week ahead of moving back to the continent. Prior to ’the beast to the east’ mainly male blackbirds had been increasing along the coast, being the first to leave to establish prime territories, but they must have had a difficult time after arriving back into their summer territories. Chaffinches and the odd bramblings, goldfinches and up to 5 greenfinches have also increased along the dunes.   A pair of kestrels in the Brickyard Lane area, where a buzzard, great-spotted woodpecker and goldcrest have been recorded over several days.   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 5. BARDNEY LIMEWOODS NNR These cover a huge area, and records from them and records from volunteer recorders are one of the main inputs to management planning and the protection of rare/scarce and critical species. Reports always welcome. http://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/limewoods/visit/woods-and-nature-reserves/127031.article Also see: Butterfly Conservation Lincolnshire Branch https://butterfly-conservation.org/300/lincolnshire-branch.html LWT Lincolnshire Limewoods http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/what-we-do/living-landscapes/lincolnshire-limewoods ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Lincolnshire Dormouse Group The Lincolnshire Dormouse Group meet monthly at Chambers Farm Woods. We always welcome visitors and new members. Dormice are legally protected and sensitive to disturbance; attending the group's meetings provides the opportunity to see dormice legally with licenced surveyors. If you are interested please email lincsdormousegroup@gmail.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The NNR includes the following sites: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Chambers Farm Woods (comprises Ivy Wood, Little and Great Scrubbs Woods, Minting Wood, Hatton Wood, Hatton Plantation and Minting Park, and also three areas of grassland: Little Scrubbs Meadow (and extension), Small Meadow and Big Meadow. Since all have their own management plans, please give the actual location when reporting); College Wood, Cocklode & Great West Woods, Hardy Gang Wood, Newball Wood, Rand Wood, Scotgrove Wood, Southrey Wood and Wickenby Wood. Many of these include both areas of ancient woodland or important grassland, which are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and non-designated areas. Since managing the SSSI areas carries particular responsibilities to Natural England, records which provide a six-figure grid reference are of particular value to the Forestry Commission. Other woods included in the NNR but without public access: Stainfield Wood; Stainton & Fulnetby Woods (access by public bridle way only) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 6. OTHER RESERVE REPORTS AND HIGHLIGHTS - LNRs, private reserves etc. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Reports welcome. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 7. Sending in reports to Roger Parsons ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The purpose of the Bulletin is to encourage biological recording in Lincolnshire. We hope to increase the number of people reporting observations to LNU Recorders and improve the quality of reports, as well as the quantity and the geographical coverage. In return for this FREE service, we ask you to provide reports, questions, news or relevant articles from time to time. Descriptive pieces are welcome - you don't have to stick to lists! Mailing times vary, depending on what I am doing. The Bulletin goes out on Thursdays or Fridays in time for the weekend. Please e-mail in contributions as early as possible, to: old.museum@yahoo.co.uk When sending in reports please follow this layout to save re-editing: Place Name: IN CAPITALS with Grid Reference if you have it. Your Name: Real names please, not aliases. Put it in each time, for each location Date: Species list [Alphabetical?] & numbers [and observations?] e.g. Blackbird - 24 [And please, no home-grown abbreviations. Species Names in full.] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 8. Contact Information & Useful Websites ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Please copy and paste URLs if necessary. *** Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union Website *** A full list of LNU Country Recorders is given here. http://lnu.org/ LNU e-mail: info@lnu.org A list of all the articles contained in Transactions (Transactions page) and a list of the Presidents (Officers page) is also available on the LNU website. LNU Bursaries: The LNU offers bursaries for natural history courses. The upper limit is £250. If you would like to apply for a bursary for an FSC [or similar] course please contact Richard Chadd on: richard.chadd@environment-agency.gov.uk *** CONTACTS LIST *** Please copy and paste URLs if necessary. *** Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust *** http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/ Care of Sick or Injured Animals - information on LWT website http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/wildlife/sick-and-injured-animals InsideEcology: Online Magazine for Ecologists, Conservationists and Wildlife Professionals https://insideecology.com/ British geology maps now free to explore on web http://www.bgs.ac.uk/opengeoscience/ *** Bird Club Website *** http://www.lincsbirdclub.co.uk *** The Sir Joseph Banks Society *** http://www.joseph-banks.org.uk *** Lincolnshire Bat Group website *** http://www.lincsbatgroup.co.uk/ *** Butterfly Conservation Lincolnshire Branch *** http://butterfly-conservation.org/300/lincolnshire-branch.html *** Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service *** http://www.lincswolds.org.uk *** Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project *** http://www.lincswolds.org.uk/chalk-streams/lincolnshire-chalk-streams *** Lincsbirders *** http://www.lincsbirders.org/ FIGHTING WILDLIFE CRIME *** Rural Crime Officer *** Pc 160 Nick Willey Force Wildlife, Rural Crime Officer Force Dog Training Establishment Lincolnshire Showground. Grange-De-Lings. Lincoln nicholas.willey@lincs.pnn.police.uk OFFICE: 01522-731897 MOBILE :07768-501895 PAGER : 07654-330877 Related Webpages: Hare coursing https://www.lincs.police.uk/reporting-advice/wildlife-and-rural-crime/hare-coursing/ Wildlife Crime http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/wildlife/issues/crime STAYING SAFE Please copy and paste URLs if necessary. *** EasyTide *** http://easytide.ukho.gov.uk/EasyTide/EasyTide/index.aspx *** Weather Underground *** https://www.wunderground.com/ *** Met Office Severe Weather E-mail Service *** http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/guide-to-emails *** Environment Agency Flood Information/Floodline *** http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/default.aspx SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDING Please copy and paste URLs if necessary. When asking for help: Please give the the very best information you can provide. If you are not sure, ask what is needed from you to confirm identification. Photographs are helpful but not every species can be identified from a photograph. When asked for further details, get back to them promptly. Don't forget a thank you for the help. That is always welcome. *** Botany *** Botanical Group in South Lincs Contact: Sarah Lambert, who writes: We'd be happy to welcome new people, experienced or not, particularly if they are located towards the northern part of the vice county! sarah.lambert7@ntlworld.com Also see: http://bsbi.org/south-lincolnshire-v-c-53 *** Identifying Fungi *** App: http://rogersmushroomsapp.com/ BMS Checklist of names: http://www.fieldmycology.net/GBCHKLST/gbchklst.htm BMS Keys for Macrofungi http://www.britmycolsoc.org.uk/library/keys/ *** What's That Butterfly? *** http://butterfly-conservation.org/ http://www.ukbutterflies.co.uk/index.php *** Identifying Dragonflies *** http://www.british-dragonflies.org.uk/content/uk-species *** How to Identify Bees *** http://www.bwars.com/ http://bumblebeeconservation.org/ LNU Sawflies, Bees, Wasps and Ants Recorder Dr. David Sheppard Willing to examine specimens or check photos (bear in mind only a relative few of the 300+ species in the county are identifiable using photos). d.a.sheppard@btinternet.com *** Lincolnshire Mammals *** Chris Manning, Chris.LincsDeer@gmail.com Mink/Otter reports are of interest and can be sent via the Bulletin. Mammal Atlas You can download and print off a hard copy or view it online. http://www.glnp.org.uk/our-publications/biodiversity/projects-and-reports.php *** Spiders *** Imogen Wilde Regional Co-ordinator (RC) and Mentor for Lincolnshire for the British Arachnological Society (BAS). Imogen@imogenwilde.co.uk *** Lincs Amphibian and Reptile Group *** The Lincolnshire ARG (Amphibian & Reptile Group) For further information and to submit records contact: Ashley Butterfield learningoutdoors@btinternet.com You can input reptile and amphibian data at: http://www.recordpool.org.uk/ Please remember, common species are just as important as rarer species. *** Local Bat Helpline *** Grounded bats, bat problems, advice and information. Contact Annette and Colin Faulkner on 01775 766286 or e-mail: annettefaulkner@btinternet.com *** Confidential Bat Records *** You may send confidential bat records direct to Annette Faulkner on: annettefaulkner@btinternet.com *** Slug ID Help *** Chris du Feu will help with slug identification. Tel: 01427 848400 or e-mail: chris@chrisdufeu.force9.co.uk *** Non-Marine Molluscs *** Alex Pickwell is the LNU Recorder for Non-marine Molluscs Email: alex.pickwell@environment-agency.gov.uk USEFUL WILDLIFE CONTACTS Please copy and paste URLs if necessary. *** Lincs Environmental Records Centre *** Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership http://www.glnp.org.uk/ (of which LERC is a part) Contact: charlie.barnes@glnp.org.uk or for more general queries: info@glnp.org.uk *** Life on the Verge and Wildflower Meadow Network Project *** http://www.lifeontheverge.org.uk/ *** Good sources of seeds of Bee-friendly Wild Flowers *** Plantlife and Flora locale have defined protocols that can guide the conservation-minded shopper. See: www.floralocale.org/Alphabetical+supplier+listing *** Lincs Bird Club *** LBC County Bird Recorders John Clarkson - Covering the north of the county recorder_north@lincsbirdclub.co.uk Phil Hyde - Covering the south of the county recorder_south@lincsbirdclub.co.uk *** The Sir Joseph Banks Society *** http://www.joseph-banks.org.uk Contact 01507 528223 enquiries@joseph-banks.org.uk *** Natural England *** http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ *** Lincolnshire Environmental Awards *** http://www.lincsenvironmentalawards.org.uk/ *** RSPB local webpages *** https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/find-a-reserve/reserves-a-z/reserves-by-name/t/tetneymarshes/ https://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/f/freistonshore/ http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/f/framptonmarsh/ John Badley, Site Manager for RSPB Lincolnshire Wash reserves e-mail: john.badley@rspb.org.uk ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 9. Notes about these wildlife reports ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We do our best to ensure accuracy in our reporting but these records are sent in by a variety of reporters, from complete beginners to professionals. They therefore vary in reliability and in a few cases may be difficult or impossible to verify. If further information is needed contact: old.museum@yahoo.co.uk Bulletins are sent to Recorders at Lincolnshire Environmental Records Centre [GNLP] , Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union and Lincolnshire Bird Club. [Note: Where plants are reported, this is usually because they have been seen and identified in flower.] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 10. The Bulletin's publicity policy ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We sometimes withhold details of rare or endangered species. Please point out any sensitive or "tricky" reports of this kind. Sensitive data should go directly to county recorders, please. Please respect the interests of wildlife and site owners if you report on national networks. Interest in wildlife is not a licence to act irresponsibly or thoughtlessly to landowners, who may well be partners in important conservation work. For good advice for ALL nature-watchers see the RSPB's birdwatchers' code https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/read-and-learn/watching-birds/code/ and BTO's pdf: https://www.bto.org/sites/default/files/u10/downloads/taking-part/health/bwc.pdf [Remember - views expressed in the Bulletin do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions on the LNU or associated organisations. In particular this applies to such agencies, especially charities, taking a political stance.] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 11. LNU Events Diary For LNU meetings also see http://lnu.org/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Field Meetings generally start at 12 noon for 1.00pm, but please check the website details for each event. Unless otherwise stated, Indoor Meetings are held on Saturdays at the Whisby Education Centre, Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln and start at 2pm. Indoor Meetings 2018 Annual General Meeting – 3rd March 2018 https://lnu.org/meetings/indoor-meetings/ Field Meetings 2018 https://lnu.org/meetings/field-meetings/ Swinn Wood LWT Reserve – Sunday 29th April 2018 https://lnu.org/meetings/field-meetings/2018-04-29/ Swinn Wood LWT Reserve, Northwest of Alford Access courtesy of Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust 12.00 for 13.00 start. Meet and park at wood entrance which is at TF421777. Nearest postcode: LN13 0ED which is east of the wood. NB. Very restricted parking so please car share where possible. Likely need for reverse parking along entrance track (first in, last out policy). Verges near entrance are Roadside Nature Reserves so please no parking on them, especially if arriving earlier than 12.00. Nearest public toilets in Alford town centre. Habitats: Ancient woodland with ponds and ditches. Leader: Brian Hedley 07989 665794 brian_hedley@hotmail.com Greetwell Hollow LWT Reserve – Sunday 27th May 2018 Greetwell Hollow LWT Reserve, (partly a geological SSSI) Eastern edge of Lincoln Access courtesy of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. 12.00 for 13.00 start. Meet and park at TF001717 which is roadside parking in far north-eastern corner of Allenby Road Industrial Estate, Lincoln. Nearest postcode: LN3 4PH. There is a short section of path north to the Hollow through rough grassland/scrub via a ‘gate’ in fence and by crossing Greetwell Road. NB. Some steep slopes, marshy areas, a fairly busy road to cross plus high levels of public usage. Nearest ‘public’ toilets in McDonalds just to north in Carlton Shopping Centre car park or Tescos nearby. Habitats: Calcareous grassland, scrub, stream, marsh, wet woodland, pond, rocks. Leader: Brian Hedley 07989 665794 brian_hedley@hotmail.com Shearman’s Wath / West Ashby Pits – Saturday 23rd June 2018 Shearman’s Wath next to West Ashby Pits. North of Horncastle A private site with access courtesy of Mike Harrison. Afternoon and evening moth/bat session. 12.00 for 13.00 start and then again from 21.00 for evening session. Meet and park on wide roadside verge at TF252719 (just east of River Bain bridge) which is located on minor road which joins the A158 and A153 north of Horncastle. Nearest postcode: LN9 5PP (which takes you slightly NE of meeting spot). NB. Some steep slopes and deep water areas. No mains available for moth traps. Nearest public toilets are in Horncastle town centre. Habitats: Lakes, ponds, marsh, grassland, scrub Leader: Brian Hedley 07989 665794 brian_hedley@hotmail.com South Ormsby Estate – Saturday 7th July 2018 Raithby Beck Wood – Saturday 4th August 2018 Sutton Bridge area – Sunday 2nd September 2018 Swinn Wood LWT Reserve – Sunday 14th October 2018 Whisby Natural History Workshops In partnership with the Lincolnshire Naturalists Union. At Whisby Nature Park near Lincoln, in the Lafarge Education Building from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. Free of charge. Refreshments included. Prior booking essential via Richard Davidson on 01522 525725 or Email rel.davidson@btinternet.com Find out more about the various subjects from our local experts. Places are limited due to the number of microscopes available. Mining Bees - June 2nd - David Shepherd Hoverflies - July 28th - Phil Porter & David Denman Ground Beetles - August 11th - Alan Lazenby Plant Galls - September 8th - Jan Rousseau Bryophytes - October 6th - Steven Heathcote. Fungi - November 3rd - Ray Halstead ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 12 ....and finally..... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *** MailFails This Week *** If you recognise the owner of a 'part-address' below, please let them know that their their Bulletin has 'bounced' this week. ajpscott - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. barrietwilliams - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. knighttwitcher - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. kristopher.dutheridge - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. lindsay_wright - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. mardunmc - hard bounce - address cleaned - account has been disabled or discontinued. If ever your Bulletin does not arrive, please let me know. Text copies of current and past Bulletins can be found on: http://rogerparsons.info/bulletinportal.html ....and finally...... Boaty McBoatface' sub survives ice mission http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-43378290 Iceland police arrest suspected Bitcoin server thieves http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-43288495 Poor rural Victorians 'had best diet' http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-43323098 Climate change 'impacts women more than men' http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-43294221 ~ THE END ~ ----------- (..until next week!) Roger Parsons old.museum@yahoo.co.uk http://rogerparsons.info/