Welcome to this second issue of our news sheet, which we hope you enjoy reading. The fact that you have received a copy means that you are either sponsoring the project, have made a donation towards the cost of our work or you have submitted records of birds you have seen. Whichever of these it is, thank you for your contribution towards this valuable research.

So, what has been happening since this time last year? Where do I start! In the months after the last news sheet, Aron was busy entering outstanding records on the computer and visiting as many landowners as possible to ask permission to walk on their land for surveying purposes. He received a very positive response from just about every quarter and whilst there are one or two farms yet to visit we now have a very wide remit to undertake our work.

The first of the three-year winter periods of research got underway in mid-November 1998. For the purposes of this survey the Island has been divided into 'Tetrads' (2 x 2km. squares), with each Tetrad being visited for a total of four hours. Later in this sheet we will tell you about this survey in a bit more detail. The 1999/2000 fieldwork starts on 15 November.

On 1 April 1999 the second of the five breeding bird surveys (BBS) started, finishing on 31 July, by which time a total of 136 km squares had been surveyed. In addition we also undertook a full seabird census, surveying the whole coast by both land and sea to obtain as accurate a count as possible of all the seabirds nesting around the Island. Articles later on give more information on both of these surveys. At the start of the BBS period I finally 'took the plunge' and resigned from my previous employment to join the team in a full-time capacity. Though not an easy decision, it is one that brings no regrets. Starting work at 5 a.m. on a hillside is much better than 8 a.m. in an office!

Since the end of July and for the next couple of months, before the next phase of the winter atlas starts, Aron and I are busy keeping the paperwork up to date, starting to analyse some of the results, writing reports and continuing to raise funds and public awareness. Fieldwork at this time of year is targeting migrants with three weekly and one monthly transects being walked, in a variety of habitats.

As you can see fairly busy, with a number of other interesting and worthwhile projects to report on later. Thanks again for your continuing support.

Chris Sharpe
Project Manager

Line drawing of Lesser Black-backed Gull - Alan Harris

ART EXHIBITION

The published results of our research will include, within each species account, a line drawing of the bird described. Illustrations are being provided by a number of artists from both on and off the Island, including renowned bird illustrator Alan Harris, whose work graces many modern field guides. Nearer the date, probably in late 2001, you will have an opportunity to view the original artwork at an exhibition and, all being well the opportunity to purchase some of them. We'll keep you informed of developments.

BIRDS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS

By the time you receive this, the Autumn will be well and truly upon us. This time of year can be very rewarding, with a number of winter visitors starting to arrive, late summer visitors still about and the chance of the occasional wind blown rarity. Redwing and Fieldfare can be seen coming in off the sea, with the Ayres being a good spot, early in the morning. Large numbers of Meadow Pipit and Skylark also congregate here on passage, whilst sitting for a while and watching out to sea can produce Gannet, divers, auks and the last few Manx Shearwater. At the other end of the Island, old favourite Langness is always worth a visit with large numbers of Curlew, Oystercatcher and other waders roosting on the shore at high tides, an increasing number of duck and the start of the build up of Chough numbers. Happy birding!

WINTER SURVEY 1998/99

As we have already mentioned, the winter research commenced last year on 15 November, and by the end of February '99 we had surveyed 62 Tetrads, or approximately one third of the Island. In addition, another third of the Island was visited on a non-timed basis, to assist in building an accurate picture of the birds that visit the Island during the winter months.

This means that, by the time the winter atlas finishes in February 2001, the whole of the Island will have been surveyed twice, giving a very comprehensive picture over a three-year period.

During the timed element of the survey a total of 36,324 recorded sightings were made of 100 species. Added to this was a further 41 species identified during non-timed work or by people submitting records of their sightings.

Highlights for the period were the number of Snow Bunting that were reported. A total of 18 sightings around the Island, both coastal and in the uplands of this occasional winter visitor was very pleasing. In addition there were many sightings of both Woodcock and Water Rail, both species probably being more widespread than is thought.

BREEDING BIRD SURVEY 1999

The second summer's fieldwork, for our five-year BBS, got underway on 1st April and, ably assisted by Jason Bishop and Peter Giovannini (our two untiring summer fieldworkers), we made good progress. Despite some rather inclement weather at times and a fairly heavy work schedule, including the Seabird survey, we achieved our target of surveying, twice, each of the 136 1Km squares allocated for the year.

Unlike last year, when most of the squares surveyed were situated within the uplands, this year's selection was more widely spread and encompassed some large areas of coastline. This change in surveyed habitat is reflected by the most frequently found species, with Herring Gull in 1st place, Wren remaining in 2nd and Meadow Pipit being demoted to 3rd (1st in 1998). Encouragingly, Swallow and Linnet, both species listed by the RSPB as of conservation concern in Britain & Ireland, due to declining numbers, appear at 5th & 6th respectively.

Another major step forward occurred during the summer, when our computer wiz Andrew Laidlaw, established the link between our database and the GIS mapping system. This now provides very dynamic maps that allow us to view both the distribution and abundance data we are collecting. The only draw back is the time it takes for the computer to search through the 263,000 records we now have - we'll have to look for a more powerful computer to deal with the estimated 1,000,000 records that will have been generated by 2003!!

STAMP ISSUE IN THE YEAR 2000 TO FEATURE LOGO

The IOM Post Office, in conjunction the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), are releasing a set of four stamps during the year 2000, with the theme of declining song birds. The set of stamps is beautifully illustrated by local artist Catherine James and depicts Swallow, Skylark, Yellowhammer and Spotted Flycatcher. The stamps, in addition to featuring the logo of the WWF, the Giant Panda, will, we are proud to say, feature the logo of . We would like to thank the Post Office and the WWF for their international recognition of the research we are conducting. Look out for more news on the issue and buy a first day cover when released.

NON – AVIAN OBSERVATIONS

We mentioned in the first issue that we would be making records of non-avian observations to provide information on their distribution. We now have our records for non-avian sightings up to date and have provided copies to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Manx National Heritage and the Manx Wildlife Trust. In the 16 months from the start of the project to 31 July 1999 a total of 1227 observations have been made of 49 species. The most unusual was a sighting of a Canadian Beaver in the Curragh!, though most sightings were of butterflies, rabbit, ‘long-tail’ etc. The map below shows the recorded sightings of Mountain Hare for 1998.

Distribution of Mountain Hare
(Darker shade = more abundant)

SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SUMMER OF 1999

Within the summer survey period there were a number of noteworthy records, not all of which relate to breeding birds. They are however of note, many of them being submitted to us by interested members of the public. A selection is shown below:

Tufted Duck - 6-7 pairs bred on the Island this year.

Tawny Pipit - The first for the main Island the only other three having been observed on the Calf.

Dotterel - a total of 11 birds were seen, all during the expected migration time for this northern upland breeding wader.

Garden Warbler - 5 singing males, including 1 outside the office of all summer.

Osprey - two observed, one in April flying up Glen Roy and one in May over Dhoon Glen

Golden Plover - An agitated male observed on several occasions in the uplands, was in the company of an agitated female late in the season, indicating definite breeding.

Hoopoe - Identified by Jack Divers (aged 5) in his back garden, subsequently seen by other observers.

SEABIRD SURVEY

During the summer months, staff from carried out a full survey of the seabirds that nest on the Isle of Man, covering the whole of the coast by land and from sea. The BBS system of 'timed counts' does not lend itself to accurate surveying of seabirds, due to the fact that many seabirds nest in large colonies and are therefore difficult to count in a set period of time. The seabird survey was therefore used to gather accurate information on the status of a total of 15 species. To ensure that counts were as accurate as possible, given that counts were made from both land and sea, a system of recording was devised that ensured that the risk of double counting of nests or missing a count of nests was minimised.

This level of accuracy was only possible thanks to the computer mapping system that has been made available to the project by the IOM Government. Thanks are also due to IOM Assurance Group for sponsoring the boat; without it many nests would have gone unrecorded, and, amongst others, to Tim Bagworth (Calf Warden), and Chris Wormwell (Ayres Warden) for the provision of records.

The detailed analysis of the 37,727 records gathered is still being undertaken. Once it has all been analysed the results will be made available to the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) which in the years 1999 - 2001 is co-ordinating a seabird census of Britain and Ireland, called Seabird 2000. The Manx Ornithological Society is undertaking further census work in the year 2000. Anybody wishing to help in counts or to provide records is invited to contact their co-ordinator Mr Allen Moore on 843798.

FIELDTRIPS AND CONSERVATION WORK

The number of individual members of the public that are supporting our work is growing all the time, some by submission of records, others by sponsorship; often both. An increasing number ask whether we run fieldtrips to see birds or whether there is any practical conservation work that they can help in, which will aid the fortunes of birdlife in general.

Whilst neither activity is something that we at are currently involved in, we are pleased to say that two excellent organisations already exist that people can become involved with. Firstly, if you wish to learn more about birds, join others 'out in the field' or at regular indoor winter meetings, why not join the MANX ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Though relatively small, the Society is very good at helping people to build upon their knowledge of birds, whatever level you are starting at. Membership is only £5 per annum with school aged children able to join for free. Contact the Secretary Anne Kaye 834015 for further details.

If you would like to 'get your hands dirty' and take part in active conservation initiatives then the MANX WILDLIFE TRUST (MWT) is the set to be with. It has a very active volunteer group which meets weekly to undertake a wide range of tasks on its 20 reserves. Membership is only £15 per annum. Contact the Trust on 801985 for more details.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MWT

Many congratulations to all those involved in MWT, staff and volunteers alike, on creating the right environment at Close Sartfield for Corncrake to breed. Congratulations also to John Thorpe, the 'finder'. All involved should take pride in their efforts, the reserve is a pleasure to walk through.

WINTER GARDEN BIRDWATCH 2000

During last winter, as we walked the Island as part of the Winter Atlas survey, it was very noticeable that there were congregations of birds in areas where people put bird feeders in their gardens. We were surprised just how many houses, both in the country and in towns regularly put food out for birds. From the number and variety of birds recorded in gardens by those of you who submit records to us it is clear that many of our supporters also feed their birds.

We therefore felt that there would be support for a 'Garden Birdwatch' over the coming winter, and hopefully, subsequent years. We are delighted to announce that the ISLE OF MAN BANK have provided major sponsorship support for this initiative, supported by money from the Mann 2000 Committee and the Manx Heritage Foundation. GARDEN BIRDWATCH 2000 will start in November and run through to the end of February and is aimed at helping to identify the type and number of birds that use gardens, at the turn of the century.

The form is a simple matter to fill in, requiring only a 'tick' per week to show whether a type of bird was seen in your garden, and what was the maximum number seen. Everyone can take part, irrespective of their level of 'birding skill' and it is particularly suited to those who are a little less mobile as well as those with young families who want to learn more about birds.

GARDEN BIRDWATCH 2000 will shortly be advertised in the press and our aim will be to encourage at least one household in every street to take part, giving an Island wide participation in the pleasure that can be derived from seeing birds literally on our own doorsteps. It doesn’t matter whether your garden is small or large, in the country or in the middle of town, all records are valuable.

Why not be amongst the first to take part. Even if you already submit records from your garden we would like you to join this scheme. Each participant's name will be entered into a prize draw that will take place later in the year. So go on don't delay, complete the form and return today!!

THE LAST CUCKOO

A performance not to miss!

On 26 Nov 99 there is a performance of a one-man show called ‘The Last Cuckoo’ by Andrew Harrison. It is being held at the Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin, commencing at 7.45 p.m. Described as "--- a wonderfully intimate piece that will have wide appeal to anyone who cares about the countryside, birds and the future", the performance contains both large elements of humour and a message about the environment in which we live, especially about our birdlife. It is well worth attending and we hope that we will see you there.

SCHOOL VISITS

In the first issue we mentioned that it was our longer term aim to visit Primary Schools throughout the Island. We are pleased to announce that we are now in a position to start this aspect of our work and discussion with the Department of Education is currently taking place regarding the content of these visits, which will hopefully start during this school term. The broad aim of the visits will be to help develop an understanding of the importance of birds within the natural environment and to encourage youngsters to observe birds and how they behave, rather than just see them.

We feel strongly that our overall work will benefit from creating an increased appreciation of birds within the Island, so we are particularly pleased that we are now able to start this valuable aspect of our work.

NEST BOXES

A number of people have expressed to us an interest in erecting nest boxes, mostly in their gardens. Nest boxes are always useful to put up, often adding an extra dimension and interest to watching birds in the garden. We are happy to give any advice that we can on suitable types as well as the height and direction boxes should be placed in. If we don't know we'll try and find out for you. As with bird feeders there are now a growing number and range of nest boxes available. From the traditional wood-built box suitable for Blue Tits and the like, through to specialist 'boxes' for House Martins, the range seems endless. Some are now made from 'Woodcrete' and are virtually maintenance free, lasting many years.

There are a number of local outlets, including the offices of the Manx Wildlife Trust as well as various pet shops and garden centres. THE PET STOP at 19 Duke Street Douglas, one of our Corporate Sponsors is well worth a visit. In addition some telephone numbers for UK distributors are shown below, a 'phone call will secure a brochure.

CJ WildBird Foods Ltd - 01743 709545

Ernest Charles - 01363 84842

Jacobi Jayne & Company - 01227 860388

SWIFT AND HOUSE MARTIN SURVEY

Assistance is being sought for the year 2000 to identify the location and number of Swift and House Martin nests around the Island.

Swift are thought to nest in only a few locations, usually in the towns where there are a number of tall buildings, whereas House Martin are more widespread nesting under the eaves of isolated farmhouses on the coast as well as in new estates. Each volunteer will be asked to survey their local area to identify buildings where nesting is taking place and then gauge the number of nests that are in use. Tick the relevant box on the Garden Birdwatch form if you want to help.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Contact Address - ,
Chris Sharpe or Aron Sapsford
33 Mines Road,
LAXEY - +44 (0)1624 861130.

SWEAT-SHIRTS

Many of you have praised our logo, designed by local artist Jenny Kissack. We are now able to offer you the opportunity to purchase, in a range of colours, sweat-shirts and polo shirts, each bearing the logo embroidered upon it, in gold. The price is £14.99, a percentage of which goes to the charity. Wear your support for Manx Birds with pride or buy them as a Christmas gift for a friend. Complete the enclosed order-form and return it to the address at the bottom of the page.

YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

In the 16 months, up to the end of July, since we started our work we have been overwhelmed with the level of support that we are receiving. 268 species are now sponsored at 'Individual' level, with a further 41 at 'Corporate' level. Over 180 individuals regularly submit records to us. This support is tremendously rewarding to see, though it does unfortunately mean that we do not have space to list all sponsors in this issue. All supporters will however be acknowledged in the published results of our research.

Your continued support is one of the key elements that is making this project work. If you feel that there are other ways you can help please get in touch, all assistance and suggestions are welcome. Equally your support in encouraging others to take part would be more than welcome. This issue suggests a number of ways, in addition to sponsorship, that people can get involved and help with our work. We look forward to hearing from you.

1km squares surveyed in 1998 and 1999