(PDF) AZORES RARE AND SCARCE BIRD REPORT 2018

0

1

AZORES RARE AND SCARCE BIRD REPORT 2018

Number 6

Front cover: Blue Grosbeak (Vincent Legrand)

Back cover: White-eyed Vireo (Vincent Legrand)

2

CONTENTS

Introduction 3

Editorial team and principal contributors 4

Contributors to the Systematic List 5

Azores Ornithological Review 2018 8

Systematic List 9

Appendix 1: Additional records 64

Appendix 2: Guidelines on criteria for the assessment of records from the Azores 66

Appendix 3: Retrospective Records 67

Notes for contributors 69

Back issues, useful websites and links 71

3

INTRODUCTION

This is the sixth edition of the Azores Rare and Scarce Bird Report.

The report details records from 2018 of all species defined as rare or scarce in the archipelago. In

order to document as accurately as possible, the status of these species, certain criteria have been

applied for the inclusion of records in this report:

1) All records of species assessed by the national Portuguese Rarity Committee (PRC) should be

accompanied by a photographic record/description to be assessed by this report’s Records

Validation Group, except where there are multiple (two or more) known observers and a

photographic record has proved to be unobtainable. Single observer records without

supporting photo/detailed description (see Appendix 2 for more information) are included in

Appendix 1. In the case of major rarities, a preliminary assessment is also undertaken by the

Records Validation Group (see Appendix 2).

2) Records of all non-national PRC species (that is, local Azores rarities adjudicated by the

Azores Regional Rarities Sub-Committee, ARRSC) should be accompanied by a photographic

record/description for preliminary assessment by the Records Validation Group where there

have been 10 or fewer documented records. Exceptions apply as in 1) above.

3) All non-PRC species are included without the requirement for a photographic record/

description unless reason(s) to the contrary are presented to the Records Validation Group.

The final adjudication of such reports for the official Azores rarity record is the responsibility

of the PRC and the ARRSC, and the Azores Rare and Scarce Bird Report aims to assist and

support the work of those committees.

We hope to improve this report year on year. Scope for development includes analysis, additional

papers and integration into other ornithological initiatives. Contributors and collaborators with ideas

for further development are therefore most welcome – please see page 69 for details of how to

contribute.

4

EDITORIAL TEAM

Systematic List and Editorial Group Peter Alfrey, Chris Bell, Rúben Coelho, Ana

Mendonca, Darryl Spittle, André Vieira

Records Validation Group Peter Alfrey, Chris Bell, Rúben Coelho

Pierre-Andre Crochet, Richard Bonser, Josh

Jones, Vincent Legrand, Darryl Spittle,

André Vieira

Azores Regional Rarities Sub-Committee (ARRSC) Peter Alfrey, Rúben Coelho, Pierre-Andre

Crochet, Chris Bell, Josh Jones, Sofia

Goulart, Alexandre Espanhol Leitao, Darryl

Spittle, André Vieira,

Photographic Editor Vincent Legrand

PRINCIPAL CONTRIBUTORS

Waterfowl Darryl Spittle

Divers to Birds of Prey Peter Alfrey

Crakes to Waders Rúben Coelho and Ana Mendonca

Skuas to Woodpeckers André Vieira

Passerines Chris Bell

Report compilation, editing and printing Peter Alfrey

Portuguese nomenclature Sofia Goulart

5

CONTRIBUTORS TO

SYSTST

Rúben Coelho (RC)

Teresa Cohen (TCo)

Tim Collins (TC)

Terry Costa (TCos)

Olivier Coucelos (OC)

Luis Correia (LCo)

Hélder Costa (HC)

Luis Costa (LCo)

Luis Cravinho (LC)

Pierre-André Crochet (PAC)

Marta Cunha (MC)

Stanislaw Czyz (SC)

Diederik D’Hert (DD)

Ernie Davis (EDa)

Massimiliano Dettori (MDe)

Eric Didner (ED)

Klaus Drissner (KD)

Marco Duenas (MDu)

Hugues Dufourny (HD)

Stephen Dunstan (SD)

Marco Dutra (MD)

Flemming Ejlersen (FE

Laers Ejlersen (LE)

Ulla Ejlersen (UE)

Tristan Hatton-Ellis (THE)

Richard Ek (RE)

Peter Eriksen (PE)

Ralf Elke (REl)

André Enes (AE)

Expedição Birdwatching Pico 2015 (EBP2015)

Vilhelm Fagerström (VFa)

Carlos Faria (CF)

Antonio Fael (AF)

Gary Fennemore (GF)

Manuela Ferreira (MFe)

Johannes Ferdinand (JF)

Francisco Fernandes (FFe)

Rui Figueiredo (RF)

Jerome Fischer (JF)

Manfred Fleischer (MFI)

Frederique Fornier (FF)

Per Forsberg (PF)

Tom Francis (TFr)

Tommy Frandsen (TF)

Michael Fricke (MF)

Bodor Gábor (BG)

Bodar Gabor (BG)

Rui Ganchinho (RGa)

Michael Gerber (MG)

Chris Gibbins (CG)

Nuno Goncalves (NG)

CONTRIBUTORS TO SYSTEMATIC LISTS

Miguel Abad (MAb)

Selmeczi Kovacs Adam (SKa)

Peter Adriaens (PAd)

Luís Aguiar (LA)

Peter Alfrey (PA)

Pedro Almeida (PAl)

Ernst Albegger (EAl)

Paulo Alves (PAl)

Ana Isabel Amaral (AIA)

Isabel Amaral (IA)

Barbara Ambros (BA)

Margarida Antunes (MA)

Susana Ázera (SA)

Elisabete Azevedo (EA)

Fábia Azevedo (FA)

BirdRace Azores 2018 (BRA18)

Filipe Barata (FB)

Luís Barcelos (LB)

Joan Barrachina (JBa)

Gordon Beck (GB)

Chris Bell (CB)

Paulo Belo (PB)

Carlos Bettencourt (CBe)

Jerry Bettencourt (JB)

João Bettencourt (JB)

Mariana Bettencourt (MaBe)

Miguel Berkemeier (MB)

Nuno Bicudo da Ponte (NBdP)

Jurgen Blessing (JBl)

Eva Blümel (EB)

Francisca Bispo (FBi)

Ricardo Bispo (RBi)

Eva Blümel (EBl)

Gabor Bodor (GB)

Hendrick Bohmer (HB)

Richard Bonser (RB)

Jose Maria Botelho (JMB)

Richard Bowker (RBo)

Margaret Bowker (MBo)

Diana Braga (DB)

Tatiana Branco (TB)

Serafim Brasil (SB)

Joël Bried (JBr)

João Brito (JBt)

Véronique Buchet (VB)

Mika Bruun (MB)

Véronique Buchet (VB)

Jorge Cardoso (JC)

Bosse Carlsson (BC)

Peter Carr (PCa)

Rafael Ceia( RCei)

Ricardo Ceia (RCe)

Paulo Chaves (PC)

Pauline Chèvre (PCh)o

José Manuel Coelho (JMC)

Elizabeth Coelho (EC)

6

Mónica Gonçalves (MGon)

María González (MGo)

Martin Gottschling (MG)

Fátima Goulart (FG)

Sofia Goulart (SG)

Gonçalo Graça (GG)

Lee Gregory (LG)

Radosław Gwóźdź (RG)

Kari Haataja (KH)

Seppo Haavisto (SH)

Stephen Harris (SH)

Paul Harvey (PH)

Jens Sörgaard Hansen (JSH)

Justin Hart (JH)

Stewart Hinley (SHi)

Gabor Horvath (GH)

Maria Huamán

Carol Inskipp (CI)

Tim Inskipp (TI)

Wojtek Janecki (WJ)

Thierry Jansen (TJ)

Mart Jansen (MJa)

Seppo Järvinen (SJ)

Josh Jones (JJ)

Graeme Joynt (GJ)

Zbigniew Kajzer (ZK)

Janne Kilpimaa (JK)

Pawel Kolodziejczyk (PKo)

Andrzej K.ośmicki (AKo)

Adam Kovacs (AK)

Ole Krome (OK)

Petri Kuhno (PK)

René-Marie Lafontaine (RL)

Thomas Lang (TL)

Kalle Larsson (KL)

Vincent Legrand (VL)

Alexandre Leitão (AL)

Domingos Leitão (DL)

Csaba Lendvai (CLe)

Christian Leth (CL)

Rony Livne (RLi)

Ferran López Sanz (FLS)

Paulo Loureiro (PL)

Joana Lourenço (JL)

Jose Macedo (JM)

Filipa Machada (FMa)

Cátia Machado (CMa)

Pedro Madruga (PMa)

Michael Maire (MM)

Sónia Manso (SM)

Rui Marcao (RMa)

Daniel Mauras (DMa)

Pedro Madruga (PMa)

Michael Maire (MM)

Rui Marcao (RMa)

Quique Marcelo (QM)

Daniel Mauras (DMa)

Paul McMahon (PM)

Carlos Medeiros (CMe)

Dino Medeiros (DMe)

Guilherme Medeiros (GM)

Marco Medeiros (MM)

Valter Medeiros (VM)

Cecília Melo (CM)

Cláudia Melo (CMl)

Marco Melo (MM)

Rita Melo (RMe)

Fábio Mendes (FM)

Carlos Mendes (CMe)

Ana Mendonça (AM)

Enésima Mendonça (EM)

Hélder Mendonça (HM)

Peter Meyrahn (PM)

Gerbrand Michielsen (GM)

Katarzyna Mikicińska

Wojciech Milosz (WM)

Guy Mirgain (GMi)

Dominic Mitchell (DMi)

Rami Mizrachi (RM)

Fiona Moejes (FMo)

Antonio Monteiro (AMo)

David Monticelli (DM)

Ana Morgado (AMor)

Lars Mortensen (LM)

Mónica Mota (MMo)

Cecile Moulard (CMo)

Nélson Moura (NM)

Toni Mulet (TM)

Alberto Nava (AN)

Micha Neumann (MN)

Verónica Neves (VN)

Dora Nicolau (DN)

Lidia Nogueira (LN)

Luis Novais (LNo)

Rodrigo Novais (RN)

Daniele Occhiato (DO)

Rolando Oliveira (ROl)

Rui Oliveira (RO)

Sarah Outen (SO)

Etienne Ouvrard (EO)

Paulo Paixão (PP)

Carla Palricas (CPa)

Hannu Palojärvi (HP)

Bruno Pereira (BP)

Carlos Pereira (CP)

Joaquim Pereira (JP)

7

José Nuno Pereira (JNP)

Rosa Peres (RPe)

Carlos Picanço (CPi)

Madalena Picanço (MP)

Baltasar Pinheiro (BPi)

Tânia Pipa (TP)

César Pimentel (CPi)

Jaime Pires (JPi)

Marina Pité (MPi)

Dan Pointon (DP)

Samuel Progin (SP)

Nuno Bicudo da Ponte (NBdP)

Carla Raimundo (CRa)

Dalila Raimundo (DR)

António Ramiro (AR)

Erik Rask (ER)

Eduardo Garcia del Rey (EGdR)

Miguel Rebelo (MR)

Conrado Requena (CRe)

Carlos Ribeiro (CR)

Jouni Riihimäki (JR)

Kathy Rita (KR)

Leandro Rocha (LR)

Afonso Rodriguez (AR)

Tiago Rodrigues (TR)

Felipe Rosado (FR)

Kris de Rouck (KdR)

Ilkka Sahi (IS)

Andreas Sandberg (AS)

Robin Sandham (RSa)

Markku Santamaa (MSa)

David Santos (DSa)

Milas Santos (MS)

Sofia Santos (SAa)

Godfrief Scheurer (GSc)

Karsten Schmale (KS)

Martin Scott (MS)

Nuno Sebastião (NS)

Jesper Segergren (JS)

Carlos Silva (CS)

David Silva (DSi)

Israel Silva (ISi)

Pedro Silva (PS)

Manuel Silveira (MSi)

Patricia Simões (PSi)

Yury Shashenko (YS)

David Silva (DSi)

Susana Simão (SSi)

Marcin Solowiej (MSo)

Rainer Sottorf (RS)

Silke Sottorf (SSo)

António Sousa (ASo)

Manuela Sousa (MS)

Darryl Spittle (DS)

Attila Steiner (AS)

Lisa Steiner (LS)

Hubert Stelmach (HS)

Florien Steiner (FS)

Peter Stronach (PSt)

Bob Swann (BS)

Jacek Tabor (JT)

Rory Tallack (RT)

Ulrich Tammler (UT)

Odília Teixeira (OT)

João Tiago Tavares (JTT)

Rick Taylor (RTa)

Joaquim Teodósio (JTe)

Odília Teixeira (OT)

Fernando Terra (FT)8

Manuel Terra (MT)

André Tomás (ATo)

João Torres (JTo)

Ingvar Torsson (IT)

Breno Toste (BT)

Tero Tovainen (TT)

Chris Townend (CT)

Vasco Valadares (VV)

Thijs Valkenburg (TV)

Guillaume Vanlindt (GV)

Dejalme Vargas (DVa)

Diana Vertentes (DVe)

Carlos Victoria (CV)

André Vieira (AVi)

Duarte Vieira (DV)

Salvador Vieira (SV)

Ilkka Vieno (IV)

Alan Vittery (AV)

Alba Villarroya (Avil)

Reinier Vries (RV)

Ingo Weiss (IW)

Claes Wikström (CW)

Mårten Wikström (MW)

Eddwin Winkel (EW)

Michal Zawadzki (MZ)

Marco Zimmermann (MaZ)

Grupo de Observação Azores Arts Bird Festival 2018 (GOAABF18)

8

AZORES ORNITHOLOGICAL REVIEW 2018

2018 was a sensational year on the Azores. ‘Firsts’ for the region included Western Kingbird and Blue

Grosbeaks (both also firsts for the Western Palearctic), Wilson’s Warbler and Pallid Harrier. Second

records for the region included Bay-breasted Warbler, Short-toed Lark, Red-breasted Flycatcher,

Pied Flycatcher and Common Stonechat and third records for the region included Wood Thrush,

White-throated Sparrow and Eastern Wood Pewee. Supporting cast for this incredible list of megas

included Lincoln’s Sparrows, Magnolia Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, American Kestrel,

White-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Franklin’s Gull, a Bufflehead (that kept company with a Surf

Scoter and Ring-necked Duck) and there were up to 28 Red-eyed Vireos, six American Redstarts, six

Northern Parula, the first Baltimore Oriole since 2011 and Sora.

Yellow-browed Warblers were finally recorded on Corvo (the furthest west in the Western

Palearctic), the Redhead from 2017 stayed in April and two Black Redstarts were only the 5th and 6th

for the Azores.

An indeterminate race of White-fronted Goose theoretically could have originated from the Nearctic

(if so likely a Gambelli) a potential first for the Azores and the Western Palearctic.

A Swinhoe’s Storm-Petrel was once again recorded on the annual Azores Birder’s Pelagic.

Sooty Terns once again bred successfully on Graciosa.

9

SYSTEMATIC LIST FOR 2018

Waterfowl by Darryl Spittle

Brent Goose (Ganso-de-faces-pretas) Branta bernicla Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Terceira Both birds recorded in 2018 were of the subspecies hrota. One was at Cabo da Praia on

3rd May (RBi, EC, RC, SG & CPi) and one was at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 14th until 23rd October,

then at Cabo da Praia from 25th October until 21st November, then returning to Paul da Praia da

Vitória from 1st until 25th December, it was also noted in the Baía da Praia da Vitória on 16th

December (PA, FA, NBdP, RBi, EC, RC, HD, NG, CM, CP, JPi, AT, TV, AlV & RV).

Pale-bellied Brent Goose, Terceira (Sofia Goulart)

Canada Goose (Ganso-do-Canadá) Branta canadensis National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant. The majority of records on the Azores appear to show

characteristics of the race interior (Todd’s Canada Goose) including the birds this year. However birds

could not definitely be assigned to this taxon so are considered indeterminate B.canadensis.ssp.

Faial A juvenile/first-winter at Jardim Botânico de Pedro Miguel on 25th November was the second

record for Faial (AVi).

Flores Two were at Praia da Calheta on 29th & 31st December (DN).

Barnacle Goose (Ganso-marisco) Branta leucopsis National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant

Terceira One was at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 2nd November until 25th December (EC, RC, RBi,

NG, CM, CP, JPi, AlV & RV).

10

Barnacle Goose and Pink-footed Goose, Terceira (Sofia Goulart)

Greylag Goose (Ganso-bravo) Anser anser Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Terceira Three were at the Aeroporto das Lajes on 1st November and Canada do Junco on 2nd

November (NBdP, CP).

Pink-footed Goose (Ganso-de-bico-curto) Anser brachyrhynchus National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Corvo One at the Aeródromo on 7th October and in the Caldeirão on 16th, 17th & 27th October (MB,

PAC, et al.).

Faial One of the two birds from 2017 was reported from Charcos de Pedro Miguel on 5th, 7th, 13th &

17th January, 1st-3rd February and 2nd, 11th and 17th March (EA, MFe, NG, BP, PS, AVi & DV).

Terceira Two were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 2nd November until 25th December (RBi, EC, RC,

NG, CM, CP, JPi, AlV & RV).

Greater White-fronted Goose (Ganso-de-testa-branca) Anser albifrons Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Terceira One, of an indeterminate race was at Canada do Junco on 17th-19th April was also seen at

Cabo da Praia on 17th (RBi, CM & CP). The bird showed some characteristics which in combination

with the mid-Atlantic occurrence and range distribution considerations were suggestive of gambelii

(Gambell’s White-fronted Goose), a sub-species that has not been recorded on the Azores or the

Western Palearctic previously. All previous records of White-fronted Goose on the Azores that have

been identified to sub-species have been flavirostris (Greenland White-fronted Goose).

Comment from Sebastian Reeber ’Typical flavirostris can safely be ruled out based on bill colour, but

also rather thin neck, general paleness (head especially, with a well visible black line along the white

mask), well-marked fringes to the upperparts and extent of white at the tip of the tail. On the other

hand, the bill shape and secondarily, the extent of the black ventral bars do fit well flavirostris, even

if they do not seem to extend beyond the legs in profile.

11

Most features here would fit gambelli well, exept maybe that the bill (which is often more orange

than in albifrons) is usually thinner than in flavirostris, with a more ’teat-shaped’ tip (and thus less

straight culmen). Gambelli is used to name many different populations, actually all north american

populations but two quite local ones from southern and western Alaska. So variability within

gambelli is to be expected .

This bird doesn’t look like typical albifrons nor flavirostris. Its bill would still fit the latter, especially

its size and shape. Of course, gambelli would be the most logical guess and I can’t see anything

wrong on this bird. On a more cautious note ascertaining gambelli in an European context is still very

tricky without genetics, and also that it would be easier to do so with a good idea of the size of the

bird (in direct comparison of other geese). ’

White-fronted Goose, possibly of the American race gambelli, Terciera (Ricardo Bispo)

Common Shelduck (Tadorna) Tadorna tadorna Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

São Miguel One was at Arribanas on 11th January and then one, possibly the same bird, was at ETAR

de Ponta Delgada on 16th & 23rd January (Mab, RC, AM, GM & CR). One was also at Arribanas on 24th

and 25th November (RC & AlV).

Wood Duck (Pato-carolino) Aix sponsa National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

São Miguel Two males were at Lagoa Azul on 16th January (GM). Two males were at Lagoa das Sete

Cidades on 31st October and at Lagoa Azul on 7th November (NBdP & FR).

Garganey (Marreco) Anas querquedula Local PRC species

Scarce migrant, largely occurring during spring and autumn.

São Miguel One was at Fajã de Cima on 23rd & 28th May (RC & GM).

12

Terceira One was at Cabo da Praia from 29th September to 15th October (PA, SÁ, LB, RBi, RC, CRa &

RV).

Juvenile Garganey, Terceira (Peter Alfrey)

Blue-winged Teal (Marreca-d’asa-azul) Anas discors PRC

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

Corvo One was in the Caldeirão on 6th & 8th October, three on 13th October, one on 16th & 20th

October and two on 26th October (AVi, JPe, PAC, Mika Bruun, CPa, MiS, et al.).

Faial One was at Charca da Lomba dos Frades and, possibly the same bird, at Jardim Botânico de

Pedro Miguel on 26th October, presumably the same bird was then reported from Charca da Lomba

dos Frades on 28th October, at Jardim Botânico de Pedro Miguel on 29th October, at Charca da

Lomba dos Frades on 1st & 3rd November and at Charcos de Pedro Miguel on 8th November & 8th

December (EA, NBdP, MFe, Mme, BP, JPi, PS, AVi & DV).

Flores One was at Poço do Ribeiro do Ferreiro on 6th, 9th & 10th October (KS, CI & TI).

Terceira Two males were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 2nd January until 18th March, one was at

Paul da Praia da Vitória on 7th & 15th April and one at Cabo da Praia on 17th April (HD, VB, SÁ, CP, CM,

RBi, MDe, RC, EC, LB, MH, MAb, JJ & OC). In the autumn, two were at Cabo da Praia from 21st until

11th November (FA, RBi, NG, CP, AT, TV & RV).

Monthly maxima of Blue-winged Teal in 2018

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Corvo

3

Faial

1

Flores

1

Terceira

2

1

2

Northern Shoveler (Pato-colhereiro) Anas clypeata

Scarce migrant, largely occurring during autumn and winter with a small number of spring records.

Pico One was at Pico da Urze on 28th November (NG).

13

São Miguel Three were at Lagoa Azul on 1st January, two at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 10th January

and at Lagoa Azul on 16th January, and then one at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 4th & 5th February

(GM). In the autumn, one was at Lagoa das Furnas on 25th October, four were at Achada das Furnas

on 23rd November, six at Lagoa das Furnas on 24th November and four on 15th December (NBdP, PC,

EC, RC, AM, SP, CR, TR & AlV).

Gadwall (Frisada) Anas strepera Local PRC species

Scarce migrant, largely occurring during autumn and winter with a small number of spring records.

São Miguel One was at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 10th January and then at Lagoa Azul on 16th

January (GM). Later in the year, there was one at Lagoa Rasa on 18th November, four at Achada das

Furnas on 23rd November and six at Lagoa das Furnas on 15th December (PAl, PC, EC, RC, AM, SP &

AlV).

American Wigeon (Piadeira-americana) Anas americana

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

Faial One was at Charcos de Pedro Miguel on 2nd, 5th, 8th & 9th December (BP & AVi).

Flores A male was at Lagoa da Lomba on 12th April (AVi) and, in the autumn, one was at Lagoa da

Lomba on 12th, 19th & 24th October (CI, TI, GSc & AVi).

Pico Two were at Lajes do Pico on 2nd January with one there on 19th & 26th January and 3rd February

(OC, NG & PS); one at Lagoa do Caiado on 1st February; one at Lajes do Pico and four at Lagoa do

Caiado on 2nd April and two at Lagoa do Caiado on 5th April. One was still at Lagoa do Caiado on 26th

April and remained throughout the summer, being seen on 3rd & 5th May, 2nd & 9th June, 9th & 27th

July and 20th & 23rd August. The same bird was still present on 19th September, throughout October

and on 28th November. Four were reported at this site on 7th December but by 10th December there

was only one (NG, MMo, JPe, PS, RV & EW).

São Miguel Three were at Lagoa das Furnas on 5th January, four were at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on

10th January, five were at Lagoa Azul on 16th January and then one at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 4th

& 5th February (GM). During the second winter period, four were at Lagoa das Furnas on 15th

December with five there on 26th December (EBl, PC, SP & MZi).

Terceira A male was at Cabo da Praia on 1st January and one male was at Paul da Praia da Vitória on

1st & 2nd January. From 3rd January until 26th March most reports from Paul da Praia da Vitória

involved two males although three birds were seen on 16th March. One was seen on 12th & 15th April

and the last sighting of the spring was of two on 17th April (MAb, SÁ, RBi, VB, RC, OC, MDe, HD, MH,

JJ, CM & CP). Later in the year all the sightings may have related to just three mobile birds with two

at Lagoa do Ginjal on 17th October, three at Reservatório do Cabrito on 26th & 27th October, one at

Paul da Praia da Vitória on 31st October, two at Junco on 2nd November, two at Posto de Rádio

Americano on 15th & 18th November, two at Reservatório do Cabrito on 21st November and one at

Paul da Praia da Vitória from 6th November until 25th December (FA, RBi, EC, RC, CP, JPi, AT, TV, AlV

& RV).

Monthly maxima of American Wigeon in 2018

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

1

Flores

1

Pico

2

5

1

4

São Miguel

8

1

5

Terceira

2

3

2

3

1

14

American Black Duck (Pato-escuro-americano) Anas rubripes National PRC species

Scarce autumn and winter migrant though the pattern of occurrence is clouded by long-staying

individuals and Mallard Anas platyrhynchos hybrids. The Corvo and Flores bird was probably the

same long staying bird.

Corvo One was in the Caldeirão on 4th November (FR & RV).

Flores One was at Lagoa Seca on 9th October (CI, TI & KS).

São Miguel One was at Achada das Furnas on 23rd November (EC, RC, AM & AlV).

Northern Pintail (Arrábio) Anas acuta

Scarce autumn and winter migrant.

Corvo One was seen from the Parque de Campismo on 23rd October (DS).

Pico One was at Lagoa do Caiado on 8th October (SÁ & LB).

São Miguel One was at Fajã de Cima on 7th, 10th & 13th January and 25th February; one was at Lagoa

Azul on 1st & 16th January and at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 4th & 5th February and 25th March (GM,

RC & EC). During the autumn and winter, one was at Lagoa das Furnas on 6th October with two there

on 28th October; one was at Achada das Furnas on 28th October with seven at the site on 23rd

November (NBdP, EC, RC, AM, TR & AlV).

Terceira One male was at Paul da Praia from 1st to 26th March (MAb, SÁ, LB, RBi, VB, RC, MDe, HD,

MH, JJ, CM & CP). One was at Paul do Belo Jardim on 5th October; one at Cabo da Praia on from 3rd

to 15th October; and one at Canada do Junco on 10th November (SÁ, LB, RBi, CP & RV).

Male Pintail, (Carlos Ribeiro)

Green-winged Teal (Marrequinha-americana) Anas carolinensis

A regular though scarce autumn and winter migrant.

Corvo One was found exhausted and taken into care at Porto Novo on 12th October (RC).

Faial One was at Charcos de Pedro Miguel on 7th April (AVi) and, later in the year, one was at the

same location from 20th November until 9th December (BP & AVi).

15

Redhead (Zarro-americano) Aythya Americana National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Terceira The male that was found in August 2017 remained at Paul da Praia from 2nd January until

23rd April (MAb, SÁ, LB, RBi, VB, RC, OC, MDe, HD, MH, CM, JJ & CP).

Ring-necked Duck (Caturro) Aythya collaris

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

Faial One was at Ribeira dos Flamengos on 4th & 5th June (MFe & AVi).

Flores One at Lagoa Seca on 19th September, one at Lagoa Rasa on 25th October and two at Poço do

Ribeiro do Ferreiro on 9th, 10th & 25th October (RC, OC, CI, TI, KS, PS & AVi).

Pico One was at Lagoa do Caiado on 12th January; one male was at Lagoa do Capitão on 18th & 21st

January and 1st February; three were at Lagoa do Caiado on 2nd, 5th & 26th April, two on 3rd & 5th May,

2nd & 9th June and 9th July, three on 27th July, two on 20th and 23rd August, one on 19th September and

3rd, 4th & 7th October, two on 12th October, one on 16th, three on 18th October, one on 30th October

and two on 28th November, finally there were three at this site on 7th December (NG, PS, RV & EW).

Elsewhere on the island, one was at Lagoa Seca on 3rd October, with two there on 16th October; and

one was at Lagoa Rasa on 4th October (MFe, NG, MMo & PS).

Santa Maria Two were at Cova do Areão on 8th & 11th November and two at Abegoaria Grande on

8th November (NG & NM).

São Jorge One was at Fajã dos Cubres on 5th, 26th & 27th December (RC & OT).

São Miguel Five were at Lagoa Azul on 1st January, eight at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 10th January,

eleven at Lagoa Azul on 16th January and eight (three males and five females) at Lagoa das Sete

Cidades on 4th & 5th February. Elsewhere, four were at Caldeira dos Alferes on 16th March, eight on

25th March and one 9th April; and one was at Fajã de Cima on 23rd & 28th May (RC & GM). During the

second winter period one was at Achada das Furnas on 28th October, four at Lagoa das Sete Cidades

on 30th October, two at Lagoa Azul on 3rd November, three at Lagoa Rasa on 18th November, 14 at

Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 14th December and one at Lagoa das Furnas on 15th December (NBdP, PC,

CR, TR & SP).

Terceira Five (three males and two females) were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 2nd January until

2nd March, six on 12th & 15th, four on 16th, five on 18th March, four on 26th March and 7th & 12th April

and two on 15th, 17th & 23rd April (MAb, SÁ, LB, RBi, VB, EC, RC, MDe, HD, MH, CM & CP). Later in the

year, five were at Cabo da Praia on 10th October, four on 12th-14th & 18th and five on 17th & 19th-26th

(PA, SÁ, LB, RBi, CP & RV); one was at Reservatório do Cabrito on 26th & 27th October, four on 4th

November, and one on 29th November; and one at Paul da Praia da Vitória on 12th and 29th

November and 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, 15th & 25th December (FA, RBi, RC, CP, AT & TV).

Monthly maxima of Ring-necked Duck in 2018

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

1

Flores

1

3

Pico

1

3

2

3

2

1

3

2

3

Santa Maria

4

São Jorge

1

São Miguel

11

8

1

5

3

15

Terceira

5

6

4

5

4

1

16

Ring-necked Ducks (Sophia Goulart)

Tufted Duck (Negrinha) Aythya fuligula PRC species

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

São Miguel Four were at Lagoa das Sete Cidades on 14th January and at Lagoa Azul on 16th January

(GM).

Terceira Three, two males and a female, were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 1st January until 15th

February, and two on 22nd February; one was at Lagoa das Patas on 2nd, 17th, 20th & 31st January, 12th

& 17th February and 30th March; one was at Reservatório do Cabrito on 18th & 23rd February (MAb,

SÁ, LB, RBi, VB, EC, RC, MDe, HD, MH, JJ, CM, RO & CP). Two were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from

31st October until 10th November, one on 12th November, three from 13th to 29th November, two on

the 1st December, three on 2nd December, two on 5th & 6th December, and three on 15th & 25th

December. Elsewhere, one was at Reservatório do Cabrito on 29th November and 3rd December

(NBdP, RBi, EC, RC, NG, CM, CP, JPi, AlV & RV).

Monthly maxima of Tufted Duck in 2018

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

São Miguel

4

Terceira

4

5

1

2

4

Greater Scaup (Negrelho) Aythya marila

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

Santa Maria One was at Marina de Vila do Porto on 10th & 14th October (NM).

São Jorge One was at Fajã dos Cubres on 25th November and 5th, 26th & 27th December (NBdP, RC,

NG, CP, DSi, OT & RV).

São Miguel Two were at Caldeira do Alferes on 16th March (RCe) and one was at Achada das Furnas

on 31st December (EBl & MZi).

17

Lesser Scaup (Negrelho-americano) Aythya affinis

Regular, though scarce, autumn and winter migrant.

Faial Two were at Charcos de Pedro Miguel from 5th January until 3rd February (MFe, NG, BP, PS &

AVi).

São Miguel One at Achada das Furnas on 8th December (RC, AlV); two at Lagoa das Furnas on 15th

December with four on 26th December (PC, SP, EBl & MZi).

Terceira Two (a male and female) were at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 1st until 15th January, three

(two males and a female) on 16th & 17th January, one on 20th, and three again from 21st January until

13th February, four on 14th February, three on 15th February, four on 16th & 17th February, two on

19th February, three on 22nd February, four from 25th February until 19th March and one on 26th

March and 7th & 12th April. Elsewhere, a female was at Reservatório do Cabrito on 17th, 18th, 22nd &

23rd February and one was at Paul da Praia da Vitória on 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, 15th & 25th December (MAb,

SÁ, LB, RBi, VB, EC, RC, MDe, HD, MH, JJ, CM, RO, CP, AlV & RV).

Monthly maxima of Lesser Scaup in 2018

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

2

São Miguel

4

Terceira

3

5

4

1

Surf Scoter (Negrola-de-lunetas) Melanitta perspicillata National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Faial One was at Baía de Porto Pim on 8th January (AR).

São Jorge One was at Fajã dos Cubres on 5th, 26th & 27th December (NBdP, RC, NG, CP, OT & RV).

Surf Scoter, Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Duck and Bufflehead , Faja dos Cubres, Sao Jorge (Nuno

Goncalves)

18

Common Scoter (Negrola) Melanitta nigra Local PRC species

Rare vagrant, largely occurring during autumn and winter with a small number of spring records.

São Jorge Five at Fajã dos Cubres on 4th and 25th November, one on 10th November, and two on 26th

& 27th December (NBdP, RC, MGo, NG, DMe, CP, JPi, DSi & OT)

Terceira One in Baía da Praia da Vitória on 7th November (RBi).

Long-tailed Duck (Pato-rabilongo) Clangula hyemalis National PRC species

Rare late autumn and winter vagrant.

Terceira One was at Paul da Praia da Vitória from 1st-4th November (NBdP, RBi, NG & CP).

Bufflehead (Olho-dourado-de-touca) Bucephala albeola National PRC species

Rare late autumn and winter vagrant.

São Jorge One, at Fajã dos Cubres on 26th and 27th December, was the first record for Sao Jorge

(NBdP, RC, NG, CP & OT).

Red-breasted Merganser (Merganso-de-poupa) Mergus serrator Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant.

Santa Maria One was at the Marina da Vila do Porto on 7th, 8th & 14th November (NG & TC).

Divers to Birds of Prey by Peter Alfrey

Great Northern Diver (Mobelha-grande) Gavia immer

A regular winter visitor to the islands, with relatively low numbers this year.

Monthly maxima of Great Northern Diver by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

1

Flores

Graciosa

1

Terceira

2

1

3

Pied-billed Grebe (Mergulhão-caçador) Podilymbus podiceps National PRC species

Rare transatlantic visitor, with new arrivals traditionally occurring in October and November.

São Miguel The long staying bird on Lagoa Azul was send up until 25th March (GM, RC, EC). The other

long staying bird (or the Lagoa Azul bird re-locating) was at Lagoa das Furnas on June 25th, 7th August

and again on 6th October with two birds recorded from Lagoa das Furnas on 25th December (EB,

MZ). One was at Batahla Golf Course on 22nd May (CR).

São Jorge One at Fajã dos Cubres from 5th- 26th December (RV CP et al)

Desertas Petrel/Fea’s Petrel (Freira-de-bugio) Pterodroma deserta National PRC species

A pelagic vagrant, recorded annually in small numbers since 2007. Unless photographed well,

sightings are perhaps best recorded as Zino’s/Fea’s/Desertas Petrels, given that the closely related

19

Zino’s Petrel has already been proven to occur and the possibility of Fea’s Petrels from Cape Verde

should also be considered. However remote tracking proves that Desertas Petrel regularly occurs in

Azorean waters so well photographed birds showing features consistent and within variation of

Desertas Petrel are most likely to be of that species.

Graciosa One on the 2018 Azores Pelagic, 28th August (DM et al)

Wilson’s Storm-petrel (Casquilho) Oceanites oceanicus

Regular pelagic visitor, occurring in fluctuating numbers each year. Numbers recorded are dependent

on the number of pelagic trips organised around the islands. Only one record this year which was

most probably due to under-recording.

Graciosa One on the 2018 Azores Pelagic, 29th August (DM et al)

Swinhoe’s Storm-petrel (Painho-de-swinhoe) Oceanodroma monorhis National PRC species

Extremely rare pelagic visitor first recorded in 2012. This year’s records are the eight to tenth for the

Azores - with all records coming from the Bank of Fortune. The best way of encountering this species

is to the join the annual birders pelagic.

Graciosa Three sightings on the 2018 Azores Pelagic, one on 29th and two on 30th August (DM et al)

could possibly have related to the same bird.

Leach’s Storm-petrel (Painho-de-cauda-forcada) Oceanodroma leucorhoa

A regular pelagic visitor in autumn. Records are typically restricted to birds that have either been

storm driven or seen from boats.

Corvo One off Corvo on 11th October (PAC et al)

Faial Three off Porto Pim on 22nd October (MA et al), one off Monte da Guia on 5th November (MF,

AV, VM) and one off Porto Pim on 7th November (VM, JP)

Pico One at Cais do Pico on 31st October (PS)

Great Cormorant (Corvo-marinho) Phalacrocorax carbo Local PRC species

Rare late autumn and winter vagrant.

Graciosa One off Barra from 4th November to 11th December (LA)

American Bittern (Abetouro-americano) Botaurus lentiginosus National PRC species

Vagrant.

Corvo one at Fojo on 3rd November (FR, RV)

Black-crowned Night Heron (Goraz) Nycticorax nycticorax Local PRC species

A scarce visitor in fluctuating numbers.

São Miguel Two at Caldeira dos Alferes on 25th March (GM) and one at Sete Cidades on 18th April

(NBdP)

Faial One at Ribeira da Conceição on 15th April (NG)and at Ribeira dos Flamengos on 16th and

again at the original site on 2nd July (Avi)

Green Heron (Garça-verde) Butorides virescens National PRC species

Very rare transatlantic vagrant.

Pico The bird from 2017 at Lajes do Picos was seen again on 27th February (OC) until 20th March (PS)

20

Squacco Heron (Papa-ratos) Ardeola ralloides Local PRC species

A scarce visitor.

Pico One at Sao Caetano on 19th April (MM)

Tricolored Heron (Garca-tricolor) Egretta tricolor National PRC species

São Miguel One at Ribeira Quente and Povoacao from 27th October to 6th November (MH, RC, AV,

NBdP et al)

Tricolored Heron, São Miguel (Carlos Ribeiro)

Cattle Egret (Carraceiro) Bubulcus ibis

Scarce visitor, with records scattered throughout the year although influxes tend to occur in spring

and autumn. A relatively quiet year.

Monthly maxima of Cattle Egret by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

2

São Miguel

7

8

1

Santa Maria

1

Terceira

2

5

21

Great Egret (Garça-branca-grande) Casmerodius albus Local PRC species

Occasional visitor. Many birds are suspected to be of Nearctic origin.

Corvo One at the campsite on the 21st October (PS et al) and roamed the island until 29th October.

Flores One at Porto das pocas on 11th April (AVi). One at Poco do Ribeiro do Ferreiro from 6th to 19th

October (KS et al) and at Lagoa Branco from 24th to 25th October (Avi)

Graciosa One at Sao Mateus from 15th March (LA, JL)

São Miguel One (presumably a bird from 2017) at Faja de Cima from 10th to 13th January (GM, RC,

EC)

Glossy Ibis (Íbis-preta) Plegadis falcinellus

Autumn migrant, dramatically increasing in numbers. Prior to 2010, there were only nine previous

records of this species.

Monthly maxima of Glossy Ibis by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Corvo

1

Faial

1

Flores

2

1

Graciosa

1

Pico

1

Santa Maria

São Jorge

7

São Miguel

1

5

1

Terceira

3

1

4

15

13

16

Eurasian Spoonbill (Colhereiro) Platalea leucorodia Local PRC species

Scarce annual vagrant from Europe, usually in autumn.

Pico One at Lajes do Pico from 2nd January to 27th February (PS et al)

São Miguel One at Lagoa Azul from 8th January until 12th August (GM et al) with one at Faja de Cima

on 28th May (GM) then at Lagoa das Furnas on 25th August and between Faja de Cima and Lagoa das

Furnas until 9th November.

Osprey (Aguia-pesqueira) Pandion haliaetus Local PRC species

Rare visitor.

Faial One at Porto Pim and surrounding area from 20th August to 15th October (MF et al)

22

Santa Maria One at Ribeira de Sao Francisco on 21st February (NM), one at Vila do Porto on 2nd April

(NM) and again at Ribeira de Sao Francisco on 23rd May (NM) and one at Ribeira Seca on 13th August

(NM)

Terceira One at Quinta da Maia on 24th April (RB)

Red Kite (Mihafre-real) Milvus milvus Local PRC species

Vagrant.

São Miguel One mainly around Lagoa Azul from 21st August to 10th October (GM, RC CR et al)

Red Kite, São Miguel (Rúben Coelho)

Western Marsh Harrier (Tartaranhão-ruivo-dos-pauis) Circus aeruginosus Local PRC species

Scarce migrant.

Terceira One at Lagoa do Junco on 5th October (RP) and at Cabrito Reservoir on 18th October (HD)

Northern Harrier (Tartaranhão-cinzento-americano) Circus hudsonius National PRC species

Vagrant.

Corvo One at the caldera from 4th to 13th October (HB et al)

Pallid Harrier (Tartaranhão-pálido) Circus macrourus National PRC species

Vagrant. This year’s record was a first for the Azores.

Corvo One at Vale de Farol and do Vinte from 25th to 28th October (CL, MG)

Common Kestrel (Peneireiro) Falco tinnunculus

Scarce visitor in small numbers, becoming increasingly regular in recent years and recorded annually

since 2005.

23

Corvo One roaming from 13th to 27th October (DO et al)

Faial One at Capelhinos on 6th September (BP). One at Espalamaca on 15th October (BP) and at Porto

Pim on 22nd October. One at Conceicao on 24th November (CR et al) and at Charcos de Pedro Miguel

on 5th December (Avi)

Graciosa One at Ribeirinha on 31st October (LA)

São Miguel One at Joao Bom on 1st October (GM)

Santa Maria One at Campo Pequeno from 10th to 12th January (NM). One at Sao Lourenco on 8th

October (NM), at Cova do Areao on 12th November (NM et al) at Maia on 13th November

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia from 2nd to 4th October (RBi) and at the airport from 4th to 11th

November (CP et al ) and in the vicinity on 16th November with two there on 3rd to 25th December

(RC, AVil et al)

Peregrine Falcon (Falcão-peregrino) Falco peregrinus Local PRC species

Annual visitor with most records from autumn to spring.

Corvo One roaming from 26th to 28th October (MB et al)

São Miguel One at Planalto dos Graminhais on 17th March (Rce)

American Kestrel (Peneireiro-americano) Falco sparverius National PRC species

Vagrant. This year’s bird was the fourth record for the Azores.

Graciosa One at Pico das Tercas on 5th November (NG)

First-winter American Kestrel, Graciosa (Nuno Goncalves)

24

Crakes to Waders by Rúben Coelho and Ana Mendonca

Sora (Franga-d'água-americana) Porzana carolina National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant

Corvo one at Ribeira da Ponte from 26th September to 27th October (MB et al.)

Sora, Corvo (David Monticelli)

Spotted Crake (Franga-d’água-malhada) Porzana porzana Local PRC species

Rare autumn visitor from Europe.

São Miguel one at Lagoa Azul on 25th October (CR).

Terceira one at Paul da Praia from 12th to 28th January (RBi, CP, CM, MDe).

American Coot (Galeirão-americano) Fulica americana National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant in autumn and winter. The Reservatório do Cabrito bird was present from

2017 so the only new bird this year was on São Miguel, the 36th record for the Azores.

Terceira One at Reservatório do Cabrito from 7th January to 26th March (CP, CM, RBi, MDe, RC, MA,

MH, JJ, RO).

São Miguel One at Lagoa das Furnas from 21st November to 26th December (CR, NBd, PCh, SP, TR,

EB, MZi).

Eurasian Oystercatcher (Ostraceiro) Haematopus ostralegus Local PRC species

Annual vagrant from Europe in small numbers.

Santa Maria One at Baía dos Anjos from 3rd March to 16th March (NM).

São Miguel One at ETAR de Ponta Delgada from 26th August to 30th August (TR, CR ). One at Ilhéu de

São Roque on 27th August (QM).

25

Black-winged Stilt (Pernilongo) Himantopus himantopus Local PRC species

A scarce migrant with 25 previous records. Presumably the same birds were involved in these

sightings.

Graciosa three at Tanque on 16th May (Luis Aguiar).

Terceira two at Paul da Praia from 8th to 10th June (CP, RBi, CM).

Black-winged Stilt, Terceira (Sofia Goulart)

Semipalmated Plover (Batuíra-de-bando) Charadrius semipalmatus

Scarce transatlantic migrant in autumn; rare resident on Terceira in recent years.

Santa Maria on at Cova do Areão on 8th November (NM e NG).

São Miguel one at ETAR Ponta Delgada on 2nd May (NBdP). One at Mosteiros on 13th August (CR).

One at ETAR Ponta Delgada from 7th to 9th November (FR).

Terceira between two and five at Cabo da Praia from 1st to 28th January (HD, VB, CP, RBi, CM).

Between two and six at Cabo da Praia from 1st to 25th February (RBi, CP, RC, SA, LB, JJ). Between two

and four at Cabo da Praia from 2nd to 26th March (RBi, SA, LB, OC, CP). Between three and five at

Cabo da Praia from 7th to 23rd April (RBi, CP).

Between one and four at Cabo da Praia from 3rd to 23rd May (RC, EC, SG, CPm, RBi, CP). One at Cabo

da Praia on 9th June (RBi). One at Cabo da Praia from 15th to 25th July (CP, BPi, HC). One at Cabo da

Praia from 11th to 30th August (RC, CP, CM, SA, VN, CP, LB, RBi, RV). Between one and four at Cabo da

Praia from 1st to 29th September (CP, RV, RBi, RC, SA, LB). Between one and five at Cabo da Praia

from 2nd to 31st October (RBi, CRa, SA, LB, HD, RV, CP, ATo, FA, TV). Between one and three at Cabo

da Praia from 1st to 29th November (CP, RBi, NG, RV, JPi, CM). Between three and four at Cabo da

Praia from 1st to 29th December (RC, AVil, RBi).

Corvo one at Praia on 2nd November (FR, LG).

26

Semipalmated Plover, Terceira (Vincent Legrand)

Killdeer (Borrelho-de-dupla-coleira) Charadrius vociferus National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant and historically summer breeder. This species bred for the first time in the

Azores (and Europe) in 2010 and for the second time in 2011.

Terceira one at Paul da Praia from 15th January to 8th February (CP, CM, RBi, MDe, RC). The same bird

at Serra do Facho from 13th February to 2nd March (CP, RC, EC, MH, MA, JJ, RBi).

Eurasian Dotterel (Borrelho-ruivo) Charadrius morinellus Local PRC species

Scarce autumn migrant and winter visitor from Europe. After an unusual year in 2016 with no birds

recorded, 2018 like 2017 have some autumn migrants.

Santa Maria Eight at Abegoaria Grande on 8th November (NG)

Terceira two at Serra de Santa Bárbara from 13th to 17th September (RO, CP, CM, RC, EC, SG, CRa, DR,

FBi, RBi).

Faial One at Caldeira on 6th October (BRA18). Increased to two at Caldeira from 8th October to13th

October (MFe, Avi, DV, BP, NG, PS).

Corvo One at Reservatório from 17th October to 28th October (GB, PAC et al., RE et al., MB et al. )

27

Dotterel, Terceira (Carlos Pereira)

American Golden Plover (Batuiruçu) Pluvialis dominica

Rare but regular autumn vagrant with over 120 previous records. A very poor showing this year.

Pico one Planalto da Achada das Lajes from 12th to 16th October (NG, PS, VM, MFe, AVi).

European Golden Plover (Tarambola-dourada) Pluvialis apricaria Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter visitor from Europe with 105 previous records.

Faial One at Porto da Feteira on 16th May (FS).

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia from 11th August to 19th August (RC, CP, CM, SA, VN, LB, RBi).

Santa Maria Two at Albegoria Grande on 8th to 21st November (NG, NM).

Northern Lapwing (Abibe) Vanellus vanellus

Scarce winter visitor from Europe in small numbers annually.

Corvo One at Caldeirão on 1st November (FR, LG)

Santa Maria Three at Santana on 14th November (TCo).

São Miguel One at Arribanas on 25th November (RC, AVil)

Terceira One at Lagoa das Patas on 3rd December (RC, AVil)

Semipalmated Sandpiper (Pilrito-rasteirinho) Calidris pusilla

Scarce transatlantic autumn migrant.

São Miguel One at Lagoa das Furnas on 7th August (GM). One at Achada das Furnas on 21st August

(GM). One at Mosteiros on 8th September (NBdP, TR).

Pico One at Plataforma Costeira das Lajes do Pico on 8th September (OC).

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia from 9th September to 2nd November (CP; RBi, CRa, SA, LB, RV , ATo,

FA, TV).

28

Semipalamated Sandpiper, Terceira (Vincent Legrand)

Least Sandpiper (Pilrito-anão) Calidris minutilla

Rare but regular transatlantic migrant, with the majority of records are in autumn.

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia on 11th August (RC). Increased to two at Cabo da Praia from 13th

August to 15th August (RC, CP). Increased to three at Cabo da Praia on 16th August (CP). Decreased to

one at Cabo da Praia on 17th August (CM, SA, VN, CP, LB, RBi).

São Miguel One at Lagoa das Furnas from 25th August to 27th August (RC, REl, QM, CR, GM)

Corvo One at Caldeirão from 13th October to 18th October (DO, PAC et al., RE et al.)

Least Sandpiper, Terceira (David Monticellli)

29

White-rumped Sandpiper (Pilrito-de-sobre-branco) Calidris fuscicollis

Annual autumn migrant, often occurring in flocks during favourable westerly conditions. The peak

annual count was 20 on Terceira.

São Miguel one at Achada das Furnas from 13th to 21st August (GM). One at Faja de cima from 7th to

8th September (RC, NBdP, TR). One at Arribanas on 31st October (NBdP).

Terceira two at Cabo da Praia on 14th January (LB, SA). One at Cabo da Praia on 1st September (CP).

Increasing to fifteen on 9th September (CP). Increasing to seventeen on 14th September (RBi, RV).

Decreasing to fourteen on 15th September (RC, CP). Increasing to twenty on 17th September (CP).

Decreasing to sixteen on 18th September (RBi). Decreasing to eight on 22nd September (RV).

Decreasing to one from 23rd September to 3rd October (RV, SA, LB, RBi, RC). Increasing to three from

13th to 16th october (RV, RBi). Decreasing to one at 17th October (RBi). Increasing to eight from 18th to

21st October (HD, RBi, RV). Increasing to nine from 22nd to 23 October (RBi). Decreasing to seven

from 25 to 26 October (RBi, CP). Decreasing to three on 27th to October (RBi, CP, ATo, FA, TV).

Decreasing to two on 28th to October (RV, RBi). Two at Cabo da Praia on 7th November (RBi).

Decreasing to one on 10th November (RV). Increasing to three from 13thto 17th November (RBi, RV).

Decreasing to one on 19th November (CP, CM). Increasing to three on 21st November (RBi).

Decreasing to two from 29th November to 2nd December (RBi, RC, AVil, RV). Increasing to three on

5th December (RBi).

Faial one at Charcos de Pedro Miguel from 17th to 19th November (AVi, DV, BP)

Pico two at Lagoa do Capitão on 19th September (OC, PS). Decreasing to one on 3rd October (NG).

Corvo one at Calderirão from 12th September to (TC et al.).

One at the Airport on 9th October (PAC et al.). One at Caldeirão on 13th October (DO). Increasing to

two from 16th to 18th October (PAC, RE et al.). Increasing to four from 19th to 20th October (PAC, et et

al.). Increasing to six on 21st October (PAC, et al.). Increasing to seven on 24th October (RE).

Decreasing to five on 26th October MB).

Monthly maxima of White-rumped Sandpipers by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Corvo

1

6

Faial

1

São Miguel

1

Terceira

2

20

9

3

Pico

2

1

Baird’s Sandpiper (Pilrito-de-bico-fino) Calidris bairdii National PRC species

Rare transatlantic autumn vagrant. With 29 previous records.

Terceira one at Cabo da Praia from 21st to 23rd September (RV, YS) increased to two from 27th to 28th

September (RBi, EC). Decreased to one again on 29th September to 5th October (RC, RBi, TI).

Corvo two at Caldeirão on 25th September (YS).

30

Baird’s Sandpiper, Terceira (Rúben Coelho)

Temminck’s Stint (Pilrito-de-temminck) Calidris temminckii Local PRC species

Rare autumn vagrant from Europe. The birds registered this year were present from 2017, the 3rd and

4th record for the Azores.

Terceira Two at Lagoa do Junco on 3rd January (HD, VB). Two at Canada do Junco from 13th January

to 17th January (CP). One at Cabo da Praia from 23rd January to 28th January (RBi, MDe).

Pectoral Sandpiper (Pilrito-de-colete) Calidris melanotos

Scarce autumn visitor from North America, typically from mid-September to late October

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia on 26th March to 2nd April (CP, SA, LB). One at Cabo de Praia from 26th

August to 18th September (CP, RBi, RC). Increased to two at Cabo da Praia from 22nd September to

23rd September (RV, SA, LB, RC, EC). Decreased to one at Cabo da Praia from 13th October to 31st

October (RV, RBi, CP, ATo, FA, TV, HD). One at Lagoa do Ginjal on 21st October (RV, RBi)

Pico One at Lajes do Pico on 18th May (FS). One at Lagoa da Rosada on 3rd October (PS, NG).

São Miguel One at Achada das Furnas on 21st August (GM). One at Achada das Furnas on 24th

September (RC).

Santa Maria One at Abegoaria on 28th September (NM)

Corvo One at Caldeirão from 4th October to 24th October (HB, AVi, JNP et al., PAC et al., DO). One at

Reservatório from 20th October to 24th October (PAC et al., RE et al.,)

31

Pectoral Sandpiper, Terceira (Vincent Legrand)

Purple Sandpiper (Pilrito-escuro) Calidris maritima

Annual late autumn and winter visitor.

Pico One at Piscinas de Santo António on 1st January (CP, CM). Three at Porto da Madalena on 2nd

March (OC). Three at Cais do Pico 11th March (OC). Two at Santo António on 18th March (MFe, SM,

SSi, AVi, PS). Decreased to one at Cais do Pico on 19th March (NG). Increased to three at Cais do Pico

on 11th April (NG, MMo). Decreased to one at Porto da Madalena on 14th April (NG). Decreased to

one at Cais do Pico on 2nd May (NG). One at Porto da Madalena from 8th November to 22nd

December (JPi, NG, CP, RC, NBdP, GOAABF18). One at Plataforma Costeira das Lajes do Pico on 10th

December (NG).

São Miguel One at Monte Verde on 23rd January (AM). Two at ETAR de Ponta Delgada on 23rd

January (CR, AM, MA). One at Marina de Ponta Delgada on 5th December (RC, AVil, NBdP).

Faial One at Porto do Pasteleiro on 5th February (AVi). One at Porto Pim on 23rd February (AVi). One

at Avenida 25 Abril from 26th February to 15th April (AVi, MFe). One at Porto Pim on 17th April (AVi)

Flores Two at Porto das Poças on 14th April (Avi).

Terceira One at Porto de Pescas da Praia da Vitória on 10th November (RV)

32

Purple Sandpiper (Rúben Coelho)

Buff-breasted Sandpiper (Pilrito-acanelado) Tryngites subruficollis National PRC species

Rare autumn migrant from North America. The three records from this year were the 45th to 47thand

record for the Azores, following two records in 2012, 2013, 2014, one in 2015 and two in 2016 and

2017.

Corvo Two at Reservatório on 13th September (TC et al.)

Pico One at Planalto da Achada das Lajes from 12th October to 16th October (NG, PS, VM, MFe, AVi,

PS).

Jack Snipe (Narceja-galega) Lymnocryptes minimus Local PRC species

Rare autumn and winter visitor from Europe. Like the next species, many records involve birds flushed

from boggy areas in the centre of São Miguel and Terceira.

Faial One at Jardim Botânico de Pedro Miguel on 3rd February (BP)

São Miguel One at Lagoa das Sete Cidades from 4th February to 5th February (GM)

Terceira One at Posto de Rádio Americano on 6th February (CP)

Wilson’s Snipe (Narceja-de-wilson) Gallinago delicata National PRC species

Scarce autumn and winter visitor from North America. Its status is unclear, as records involve birds

that have been either seen in flight or historically shot by the islands’ hunters.

Terceira One at Lagoa do Junco on 17th January (CP). Three at Canada do Junco on 14th November

(CP, NG).

São Miguel One at Lagoa dos Espraiados on 6th March (RCe). One at Marina de Ponta Delgada on 7th

March (GM). One at Arribanas on 7th March (GM)

Corvo One at Ribeira da Lapa on 20th October (PAC et al.)

33

Long-billed Dowitcher (Maçarico-de-bico-comprido) Limnodromus scolopaceus National PRC species

Rare autumn vagrant from North America; rarer than the previous species, with arrival dates slightly

later in September and October.

São Miguel One at ETAR de Ponta Delgada from 26th October to 6th December (NBdP, FR, RC,

AVil,CR,TR). Supposedly the same individual at Arribanas from 26th October to 25th November (NBdP,

CR, TR, RC, AVi).

Juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher, São Miguel (Carlos Ribeiro)

Bar-tailed Godwit (Fuselo) Limosa lapponica

Scarce autumn migrant and winter visitor from Europe.

São Miguel Two at ETAR Ponta Delgada on 7th to 27th January (RC, EC, NBdP). One at Monte Verde

on 13thJanuary (RC, EC). One at Arribanas on 2nd February (GM). One at ETAR Ponta Delgada from

25th February to 3rd April (RC EC). One at Arribanas on 25th November (RC, AVil). One at Arribanas on

5th December (RC, AVil, CR, TR).

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia on 3rd January (HD, VB). Increasing to tree from 5th to 15th January (CP,

RBi, SA, LB). Decreasing to one on 16th January (CP, CM). Increasing again to three from 21st January

to 15th February (CP, Cm, RBI, MDe, RC, EC, MA, MH). Increasing to four at Cabo da Praia on 14th

February (RBI). Decreasing to one at 17th February (Josh Jones). Increasing to two on 19th February

(RBi). Increasing to tree on 22th February (RBi). Increasing to four at 25th February (RBi). Decreasing

to 3rd on 2nd March (RBI). Decreasing to 2nd from 12th to 18th March (LB, SA, RBi). Increasing to tree on

26th March (CP). Increasing to four from 2nd to 23rd April to (SA, LB, RBi, CP). Decreasing to one from

3rd May to 3rd June (RC, EC, SG, CPm, CP, LB, SA). One at Cabo da Praia from 1st to 5th September (CP,

RV, RBi). Increasing to two from 9th September to 3rd November (CP, RBI, RV, SA, LB, RC, CRa, HD).

Increasing to four on 4th November (CP, NG). Decreasing to two from 7th to 2nd December (RBi,

Reinier Vries, Jaime Pires, CP, CM, RC e AVil). Increasing to tree from 5th to 31st December (RBi, RC).

34

Pico one at Barca on 5th October (PS).

Adult Bar-tailed Godwit (Rúben Coelho)

Hudsonian Whimbrel (Maçarico-galego-americano) Numenius hudsonicus

Scarce visitor from North America, and although spread throughout the year, records peak in late

summer and early autumn.

São Miguel One at ETAR de Ponta Delgada from 5 to 6 December (RC, AVil, CR, TR).

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia from 7 to 13 February (RBi, RC, EC, MH, MA). One at Cabo da Praia

from 11 August to 1 September (RC, CP).

Common Redshank (Perna-vermelha) Tringa totanus

Rare European visitor in autumn and winter

Santa Maria one at Cova do Areão on 10th January (NM).

São Miguel one ar ETAR Ponta Delgada on 2nd May (NBdP). One at Mosteiros on 10th October (GM).

One at Achada das Furnas from 28th October to 8th December (NBdP, RC, AVil).

Greater Yellowlegs (Perna-amarela-grande) Tringa melanoleuca National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant. This year record from São Jorge was the 27th for the Azores.

São Jorge One at Fajã dos Cubres from 7th May to 30th December (EW, PS, AVi, DV, OC, EA, MFe, OT,

DSi, OT, DSi, NG, SB, MGon, DMe, CP, NBdP, NG).

Lesser Yellowlegs (Perna-amarela-pequeno) Tringa flavipes

Scarce transatlantic autumn visitor, and less frequently in spring or overwintering.

Santa Maria One at Cova do Areão from 8th to 11th November (NG)

35

São Miguel one at Fajã de Cima from 24th to 30th September (GM, RC, AVil). One at Achada das

Furnas on 6th October (NBdP, TR)

One at Arribanas on 26th October (NBdP). One at Achada das Furnas on 8th December (RC, AVil).

Terceira One at Cabo da Praia from 1st to 23th September (CP, RV, RBi, RC, SA, LB). Increasing to two

from 27th september to 4th October (RBi, RC). Decreasing to one on 5th to 27th October (RBi, CRA, HD,

RV, CP, ATo, FA, TV). Increasing again to two from 28th October to 2nd November (RV, RBi).

Decreasing to one on 4th November (CP, NG).

One at Lagoa do Ginjal from 26th to 27th October (CP, ATo, FA, TV). Increasing to two on 1st

November (CP).

Pico two at Pico da Urze on 18th October (NG). Decreasing to one on 19th October (PS). One at Barca

on 21st October (PS).

Lesser Yellowlegs, Terceira (Sofia Goulart)

Green Sandpiper (Maçarico-bique-bique) Tringa ochropus Local PRC species

Rare European vagrant, usually in autumn.

São Miguel one at Achada das Furnas on 8th December (RC, AVil).

Terceira One at Lagoa do Junco on 18th October (HD). Increasing to two from 13th to 17th November

(RV). Decreasing to one on 18th November (CP).

Four at Reseevatório do Cabrito on 26th October (CP).

Pico one at Lagoa do Capitão on 9th July (NG). One at Barca from 14th October to 18th November

(MFe, AVi, PS, NBdP, NG).

Faial one at Caminho do Rato from 19th to 24th November to (AVi, BP).

36

Wood Sandpiper (Maçarico-de-dorso-malhado) Tringa glareola Local PRC species

Scarce spring and autumn vagrant from Europe.

Santa Maria one at Airport on 11th November (NG).

São Miguel One at Fajã de Cima on 8th September. Supposedly the same individual at Arribanas from

26th to 31st October. (NBdP, TR, CR)

Solitary Sandpiper (Maçarico-solitário) Tringa solitaria National PRC species

A rare vagrant with 26 previous records.

Terceira One at Lagoa do Ginjal from 21th to 27th October (RV, RBi, CP, ATo, FA, TV)

Common Sandpiper (Maçarico-das-rochas) Actitis hypoleucos

Annual visitor in small numbers, predominantly in autumn and winter

Santa Maria one at Ribeira de São Francisco from 10th January to 23rd February (NM). One at Ribeira

de São Francisco on 8th November (NG). One at Maia on 10th November (NG).

São Miguel one at Monte Verde from 16th to 23rd January (RC, AM). One at Ribeira Grande on 27th

August (REl). One at Lagoa das Furnas on 7th September (GM). Increasing to two on 9th September

(RC).

Terceira one at Cabo da Praia from 15th January to 25th February (CP, RBi, RC, SA, LB MH, MA). One

at Paul da Praia from 18th to 19th October (HD, RBi). Supposedly the same individual at Cabo da Praia

from 26 October to 5th December (RBi, CP, RV, NG, RC, AVil)

Pico one at Lajes from 4th September to 4th October (NG, OC, PS, JNP et al.).

Spotted Sandpiper (Maçarico-pintado) Actitis macularius

Scarce autumn visitor in small numbers annually, with some birds overwintering. The records this

year are typical for this species.

São Miguel one at Lagoa das Furnas from 16th to 25th August (FFe, GM, RC, REl, TR). One at Lagoa das

Furnas on 6th October (NBdP, TR).

Terceira one at Cabo da Praia from 12th January to 3rd May (RBi, AVi, CP, RC, EC SG, CPm). One at

Cabo da Praia from 18th to 29th September (RBi, RV, SA, LB, RC). One at Cabo da Praia on 23rd to

October (RBI).

São Jorge one at Fajã dos Cubres on 1st September (OC).

Pico one at Lajes from 11th January to 26th February (PS, MFe, MMo, PS, NG). Increasing to two on 7th

March (PS). Decreasing again to one from 12th March to 2rd May (NG, PS, MMe, EW). One at Porto

Madalena from 17th January to 12th April (NG, MFe, MMo, PS, OC) One at Formosinha from 5th to

May (NBdP). One at Lajes from 8th to 20th September (OC, NG). One at Barca on 15th September

(NG). One at Lajes on 1st October (NG). One at Barca from 4th to 16th October (PS, JNP, OC, NG). One

at Lajes from 29th October to 22th December (PS, CM, MFe, CP, NBdP, NG, RC, TCos)

Faial one at Porto da Feteira on 1st October (AVi, DV, MMe).

One at Lagoas Artificiais on 8th October (AVi).

Corvo at Costa Sul from 5th to 27th October (AVi, JNP, CPa, MS, HB, PAC, RE, MB et al.).

37

Juvenile Spotted Sandpiper, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Grey Phalarope (Falaropo-de-bico-grosso) Phalaropus fulicarius

Scarce visitor, largely in autumn following inclement weather.

Terceira one at Paul da Praia on 12th January (RBi).

Skuas to Woodpeckers by André Vieira

Pomarine Skua (Moleiro-do-ártico) Stercorarius pomarinus

Scarce annual visitor, usually in autumn although can be recorded in winter and spring. Probably

under recorded during passage periods, as most birds are likely to pass offshore.

São Miguel one north of Nordeste at 23rd Aug (MH)

Arctic Skua (Moleiro-pequeno) Stercorarius parasiticus

Scarce spring and autumn visitor, usually recorded from offshore pelagics

Santa Maria one on Santa Maria Airport at 30th May (NM)

Bonaparte’s Gull (Guincho-americano) Chroicocephalus philadelphia National PRC species

Scarce winter visitor.

Santa Maria one at Vila do Porto Marina on 16th Jan (NM)

São Miguel one at Arribanas from 25th to 26th November (RC, AVr, TR)

Terceira one in Praia da Vitoria bay, 1st Jan (HD), on Cabo da Praia on 12th Jan (RBi), 14th Jan (SA, LB),

15th (CP, CM) and observed continuously until 25th Feb. Relocated Cabo da Praia on 26th Mar (CP), 7th

Apt (RBi), 17th and 23rd Apr (CP).

38

First-winter Bonaparte’s Gull, São Miguel (Rúben Coelho)

Laughing Gull (Gaivota-alegre) Leucophaeus atricilla National PRC species

A Trans-Atlantic vagrant.

Terceira one in Praia da Vitoria fishing harbour on 1st Nov (CP, NBdP) and then at Praia da Vitoria

bay, 2nd Dec (RV)

Franklin’s Gull (Gaivota-das-pradarias) Leucophaeus pipixcan National PRC species

A Trans-Atlantic vagrant.

São Miguel one adult at Ponta Delgada marina from 10th to 13th May (NBdP, AVi, RC)

Adult Franklin’s Gull, São Miguel (Rúben Coelho)

39

Mediterranean Gull (Gaivota-de-cabeça-preta) Ichthyaetus melanocephalus

Scarce winter visitor. 2018 was a record year.

Pico two at Lajes do Pico on 23rd Oct (PS, NS), only one the next day, and also on 29th Oct (PS)

São Miguel one at Ponta Delgada Marina on 18th Jan (GM), 2nd Feb (GM, MS). 4 birds at Arribanas on

25th Nov (RC, AVr).

Terceira one 1st winter in Praia da Vitoria bay, 1st Jan (HD). One in Cabo da Praia on 18th Oct (HDu),

one at Praia da Vitoria fishing harbour on 26th Oct (CP), 2nd Nov. Two birds on Lagoa do Junco on 13th

and 17th Nov (RV). 1 at Lagoa do Junco and five at Praia Vitoria bay on 2nd Dec (RC, AVr), 3 on 15th

Dec (RC, CP), 11 on 16th Dec and 8 on 31st Dec (RC)

Annual total of Mediterranean Gulls in the Azores 2005-2018:

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2

5

7

5

6

3

10

2

4

1

9

3

2

19

Ring-billed Gull (Gaivota-de-bico-riscado) Larus delawarensis

Scarce late autumn migrant and winter visitor from North America, with a regular wintering flock

present at Praia da Vitória, Terceira, each year which is unfortunately growing smaller over time.

Also winters in Ponta Delgada harbour, with a smaller flock.

Faial one at Poça da Rainha on 4th Jan (MS), 1st winter on 12th Jan (AVi), 2 on 15th Jan (BP, MS) and

presumably the same 2 at Canadinhas on 17th Jan (BP, NS, PS). Again 2 on 20th Jan on Poça da Rainha

(AVi). Only one in Santa Bárbara on 29th and 20th Jan (AVi, DV, BP), 9th Feb (AVi, DV)

Pico one at Lajes do Pico on 2nd Dec (AVi, DV), 11th Dec (NS), 21st and 22nd Dec (CP, NBdP, RC)

São Miguel one 1st winter at Ponta Delgada Marina on 10th Jan (GM), 13th Jan (RC, EC), 2nd winter on

14th Jan (GM). One at Marina again on 24th Jan and at Ponta Delgada Waste treatment plant on 27th

Jan (NBdP). One at Ponta Delgada Marina on 2nd Feb (GM, MS) and 2 at Ponta Delgada Marina on

25th Feb (RC, EC). Possibly same two in Arribanas on 27th, 28th Feb and 1st , 2nd , 7th and 8th Mar (GM).

One bird on 24th Nov in Arribanas (CR, NBdP, TR). One at Ponta Delgada Marina on 5th Dec (RC, AVr,

CR, NBdP)

Terceira eight adults at Praia da Vitoria bay, 1st and 2nd Jan (HD), 7 on 3rd Jan, 5 on 5th Jan (CP), 6 on

10th Jan (Rbi), 11 on 24th, 10 on 25th, 12 on 26th Jan (RBi). Also 5 at Lajes Airport on 7th Jan (CP) and 12

on 17th Jan (CP). Also 11 at Praia Vitoria fishing harbour on 23rd Jan (RBi). 5 on Praia da Vitoria bay at

4th Feb (CP) and 12 the 5th and 7th (RBi), 10 on 13th Feb (RC, RC, RBi), 12 on 15th Feb (RC, RBi) and 11

on 17th Feb (JJ), 10 on 19th, 9 on 22nd and 25th Feb (RBi). Still 5 at Praia da Vitoria bay on 5th Mar (RBi,

AVi) and 11 on 24th Mar (CP). Two birds at Praia da Vitoria bay on 18th Nov (CP, CM) and 4 on 4th Dec

(RC, AVr, RV), 7 on 15th Dec (CP, RC) and 8 on 31st Dec (RC). 3 on Lajes airport on 3rd Dec (RC, AVr), 9

on 16th Dec (RC)

Monthly maxima of Ring-billed Gulls by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

2

1

Pico

1

40

São Miguel

2

1

Terceira

12

11

2

9

Adult Ring-billed Gull, Terceira (Rúben Coelho)

Common Gull (Famego) Larus canus Local PRC species

An annual winter visitor.

São Miguel immature at Mosteiros on 9th Oct (SB)

Terceira one at Praia da Vitoria bay regularly from 15thFeb until 20th Mar (RBi, RC, OC) and also one

time at Praia da Vitoria fishing harbour 17th Feb (JJ). 2 birds wintering, starting from 15th Dec at

Praia da Vitoria bay (RC, CP).

Adult Common Gull, Terceira (Rúben Coelho)

41

European Herring Gull (Gaivota-prateada) Larus argentatus Local PRC species

Scarce visitor, presumably overlooked previously. Only in recent years have observers begun to record

this species on the Azores, so establishing its true status is perhaps currently premature (see

Appendix for American Herring Gull records in 2018).

São Miguel adult at Ponta Delgada Marina on 10th Jan (GM) and again on 2nd Feb (GM, MS). One bird

on 17th Nov at Ponta Delgada marina (RC, AVr)

Terceira one near Lagoa do Junco and an adult at Praia da Vitoria bay on 1st Jan (HDu). Adult seen

again same place on 2nd, 3rd Jan (HDu), 21st Jan at Praia Vitoria fishing harbour (CP, CM). Junco bird

seen again on 17th Jan (CP). 2 at Lagoa do Junco on 6th Oct (RV, RBi)

Iceland Gull (Gaivota-branca) Larus glaucoides

Rare winter visitor.

Flores one at Santa Cruz airfield on 12th Apr (AVil)

Graciosa one at Praia on 23rd Mar (LA et al). One at ilheu da Praia on 26th and 27th Dec (MAu)

Pico one at Lajes do Pico on 14th Feb (PS, NS). One seen at Furna Frei Matias on 12th Mar (OC) and

also in São João waste deposit on 14th Mar (AVi, PS, MS), at Lagoa do Capitão o 15th Apr (NS)

São Miguel one at Ponta Delgada marina on 7th and 13th Jan (RC, EC), 10th Jan and 2nd Feb (GM) and

also in Arribanas on 27th Jan (NBdP). 2 birds seen on 2nd Mar at Ponta Delgada marina (GM). One

again on 2nd Apr (GM)

Terceira one at Salga on 16th Jan (CP, CM). One at Canada do Junco on 23rd May (CP). One at Canada

do Quinhao Grande on 26th Oct (CP)

Number of Iceland Gulls (including kumlieni) each month by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Flores

1

Graciosa

1

Pico

1

São Miguel

1

2

1

Terceira

1

Glaucous Gull (Gaivotão-branco) Larus hyperboreus

Rare winter visitor from the Arctic.

Faial one at Horta harbour on 21st Feb (AVi, BP)

Flores one at Lajes harbour on 3rd Mar (DN) and in Ponta Delgada on 11th Apr (AVi)

Graciosa one at Graciosa Waste Treatment on 31st Jan (LA). One at Praia on 23rd Mar (LA et al). One

on 21st Nov at Barra (LA)

Pico one at Lajes do Pico on 19th, 21st, 24th Jan, 14th Feb (PS, NS, MS). One at Criação Velha, 20th Feb

(NS) and on 26th Nov (PS)

Santa Maria one at Ribeira de São Francisco on 23rd Mar (NM)

São Miguel one at Mosteiros on 12th Jan (GM), Monte Verde on 23rd Jan and 3rd Feb (AM, CS), and

one at Ponta Delgada marina on 2nd Feb (GM, MS). One at Ribeira Quente on 24th Nov (TR) and 26th

(RC, EC, AVr)

42

Terceira one at Praia da Vitoria on 28th Feb (GMi)

Number of Glaucous Gulls recorded each month by island in 2018:

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Faial

1

Flores

1

Graciosa

1

Pico

1

Santa Maria

1

São Miguel

1

Kittiwake (Gaivota-tridactila) Rissa tridactyla

Rare pelagic visitor.

São Miguel around 80 off João Bom on 13th Jan and around 50 on 20th Jan (GM)

Terceira two at Salgueiros on 5th Jan (CP)

Arctic Tern (Garajau-do-árctico) Sterna paradisaea

Status uncertain.

São Miguel One at Ponta Delgada habour from 9th to 11th October (GM, TR, DMi et al)

Sandwich Tern (Garajau-de-bico-preto) Thalasseus sandvicensis PRC species

Scarce autumn and winter visitor, with three birds recorded including regularly returning birds in

Terceira, but this winter six were observed, suggesting that the wintering population might be

growing. Observers should aim to document all records of this species in detail, being aware of the

closely related and now-split Cabot’s Tern (Thalasseus acuflavida) from North America.

Flores one at Lajes harbour on 19th Sep (HM)

Terceira mainly at Praia da Vitoria fishing harbour, from 1 to 5 birds, median size 3, from 1st Jan until

23th Apr. 5 birds were observed on 6th Jan (CP; CM), 28th Jan (RBi, MDe), 14th Feb (CP, RC), and 26th

Mar (CP). Down to 2 birds on April, and last bird on 23th April (RBi). After summertime, first two

birds in Praia Vitoria fishing harbour on 16th Oct (RBi), increased to 3 on 17th Oct (RBi). On 2nd Nov

four birds were observed (CP, RBi), and numbers fluctuates between 3 and 4 during november and

December. On 18th Dec, 6 were observed at Salgueiros (RC), which is new max.

Sooty Tern (Garajau-de-dorso-preto) Onychoprion fuscatus National PRC species

Almost annual summer visitor, historically favouring tern colonies offshore from Graciosa or Santa

Maria. This species bred for the first time in the Azores (and Europe) in 2010, and with the recording

of a juvenile again this year, breeding was successful again.

Graciosa one flying juvenile at ilheu da Praia on 12th Aug (VN) and one adult on Praia 27th Aug (RV)

43

Little Auk (Torda-miúda) Alle alle National PRC species

A rare vagrant.

São Jorge one in Velas on 14th Jan (António Pedroso)

São Miguel one found inland in Pico da Pedra n 15th Jan, died next day (Filipe Rui Travassos)

Atlantic Puffin (Papagaio-do-mar) Fratercula articta Local PRC species

An rare visitor.

Pico one 4 miles to the south of São Caetano on 17th May (MMe)

Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Papa-lagarta-norte-americano) Coccyzus americanus National PRC species

Rare but regular transatlantic vagrant to Corvo and Flores, with records of moribund birds from the

other islands.

Corvo one at Reservatório on 17th Oct (PSt, BS) and Middle Fields (PF, JSn) same day. At middle fields

every day until 20th Oct. Back again on Middle Fields on 23rd, 24th and 25th Oct. Last time observed at

Middle Fields on 29th Oct.

Flores one at Ponta Delgada on 13th Oct (TV, GM) and Ponta da Fajã on 17th Oct (GS). Observed at

Fazenda das Lajes on 25th Nov (LC)

Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Chimney Swift (Andorinhão-de-rabo-espinhoso) Chaetura pelagica National PRC species

A vagrant.

Corvo one at Cantinho on 21st Oct (JR, IS), middle fields on 22nd, 23rd and 24th Oct.

Flores one at Fajãzinha on 18th Oct (TV) and 3 the next day on Fajã Grande (TV). On 20th Oct

observed also one at Ponta Delgada (GS) and still 3 in Fajã Grande (TV)

44

Chimney Swift, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Common Swift (Andorinhão-preto) Apus apus Local PRC species

Scarce spring overshoot from Europe, with some autumn records.

Corvo one at Vinte on 4th Oct (HB)

Terceira one at Cabo da Praia on 3rd Jun (LB, SA)

Passerines by Chris Bell

Eastern Wood Pewee (Piui-verdadeiro) Contopus virens National PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from North America with two previous records both from Corvo in October

2015; remarkably the same observer has found two, including the first! These are also the only

records for the Western Palearctic.

Corvo one on the northern edge of Pico from 20th to 21st October (PAC et al).

45

Eastern Wood Pewee, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Western Kingbird (Suiriri-ocidental) Tyrannus verticalis National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from North America this was unsurprisingly the first record for both the

Azores and the Western Palearctic. One of the most astonishing vagrants to date it goes without

saying that this species was not on most people’s radar albeit there are many scattered records east

of the breeding range as well as an apparent wintering population in Florida. It will doubtless be a

very long wait for the next.

Flores a first-winter at Ponta Delgada from 13th to 14th October (TV).

Western Kingbird, Flores (Thomas Lang)

46

White-eyed Vireo (Juruviara-de-olho-branco) Vireo griseus National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from North America with four previous records, all from Corvo in October

though this was the first since 2011 and after such a long wait was a highlight of the autumn for

many. Somewhat of a Corvo specialty there are no other Western Palearctic records.

Corvo one in the gulley adjacent to the reservoir from 20th to 21st October (MN).

White-eyed Vireo, Corvo (Radoslaw Gwozdz)

Yellow-throated Vireo (Juruviara-de-garganta-amarela) Vireo flavifrons National PRC species

An extremely rare transatlantic vagrant, this was the fifth for the Azores, with the exception of one

on Sao Miguel in 2008, all of which have been on Corvo in October.

Corvo one in Ribeira da Ponte from 16th to 28th October (GH, CLe, MSo).

Yellow-throated Vireo, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

47

Philadelphia Vireo (Juruviara-da-filadélfia) Vireo philadelphicus National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant that has been annual since 2011, almost exclusively on Corvo in October,

though there is also a single record from Flores; this was the 17th for the Azores.

Corvo one in Ribeira da Ponte from 16th to 26th October (EAl, GM, KS).

Philadelphia Vireo, Corvo (Kris De Rouck)

Red-eyed Vireo (Juruviara) Vireo olivaceus

An annual autumn vagrant, and since the first record in 2005, this species has become the most

frequently encountered Nearctic passerine on the Azores. This was another exceptional autumn with

a conservative estimate of 29 exceeding even last year’s bumper total and setting a new record. This

being even more remarkable as unlike 2017, there was no coverage in September, with records

crammed into just eighteen days in October.

Corvo an estimated 28 were recorded between 10th and 27th October, around half of these occurring

during the noticeable fall of Nearctic landbirds from 15th to 16th, with a smaller arrival taking place

from 20th to 21st when up to four were in both Fojo and Ribeira da Ponte.

Flores one at Ponta Delgada on 15th October.

48

Red-eyed Vireos, Corvo (Peter Alfrey)

Greater Short-toed Lark (Calhandrinha-comum) Calandrella brachydactyla Local PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from Europe or North Africa, there is just one previous record for the Azores

from Sao Jorge in October 2009.

Corvo one close to Ribeira do Cantinho on 10th October (HB et al).

Santa Maria one at the airport on 14th October (NM).

49

Greater Short-toed Lark, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Yellow-browed Warbler (Felosa-listada) Phylloscopus inornatus National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from Asia though given the huge upsurge in sightings in Western Europe

in recent autumns perhaps more can be expected. These were the first for the well-watched island of

Corvo, with both previous records for the Azores coming from the same locality on Sao Miguel in

December 2001 and the winter of 2017/18.

Corvo up to two were around the middle fields from 23rd to 30th October (GF, HP), with singles in

the Caldeirao on 26th, and Ribeira da Lapa from 26th to 27th (Corvo bird log).

Sao Miguel one at Lagoa Azul from 9th to 10th April (GM) was presumably the same bird from Sete

Cidades in December 2017.

Yellow-browed Warbler, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

50

Willow Warbler (Felosa-musical) Phylloscopus trochilus Local PRC species

Annual autumn visitor from Europe, in small numbers; four represents an average total for recent

years.

Corvo two were at Vila Nova do Corvo on 6th October (JP, AV), with almost daily sightings here or the

nearby middle fields until 19th presumably the same, though three were present on 14th.

Sao Miguel one at Sete Cidades on 10th October (GM).

Garden Warbler (Toutinegra-das-figueiras) Sylvia borin Local PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from Europe, this was just the fourth well-documented record for the Azores.

Corvo one in the middle fields on 19th October (CLe).

Grey-cheeked Thrush (Tordo-de-faces-cinzentas) Catharus minimus National PRC species

Rare but increasingly regular autumn vagrant from North America, having been first recorded on

Flores in October 2002, though all subsequent records are from Corvo; this was the 19th for the

archipelago.

Corvo one in Pico from 15th to 16th October was last seen in Ribeira da Ponte on the 17th (ZK, HS).

Swainson’s Thrush (Tordo-dos-pântanos) Catharus ustulatus National PRC species

A very rare vagrant from North America, and with just six previous records, three in one year is

exceptional.

Corvo Singles were at the Miradouro on 15th October (RM) and the Lighthouse Valley on 28th

(Stanislav Harvančík).

Swainson’s Thrush, Corvo (David Monticelli)

51

Wood Thrush (Tordo-dos-bosques) Hylochichla mustelina National PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from North America, this was the second for Corvo and third for the Azores

being one of the highlights of the autumn for many.

Corvo one initially found in Pico on 16th October (PK) quickly moved to adjacent Ribeira da Ponte

where it remained until 21st.

Wood Thrush, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Song Thrush (Tordo-pinto) Turdus philomelos Local PRC species

A rare though increasingly regular vagrant from Europe that has been annual in recent years, albeit

that most records are not well documented.

Corvo single birds were in the middle fields (KH, PK), and at the reservoir (DS) on 24th October.

Santa Maria four at Cova do Areao on 8th November (NG, NM), with one still present on the 11th.

Spotted Flycatcher (Taralhão-cinzento) Muscicapa striata Local PRC species

Very rare vagrant from Europe chiefly during October, four in one year is exceptional with these

being the fifth to eighth documented records for the Azores. This report continues to treat all records

as presumed Spotted Flycatcher as opposed to a compound species Spotted/Mediterranean

Flycatcher which would require DNA separation and currently there is no evidence to suggest

Mediterranean Flycatcher has occurred on the Azores.

Corvo one in the middle fields from 6th to 26th October (JP, AV) with two present from 13th to 18th

(DO), and one in Ribeira da Ponte on 27th (LG).

Flores one at Faja Grande from 4th to 9th October (KS).

52

Spotted Flycatcher, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

European Pied Flycatcher (Papa-moscas-preto) Ficedula hypoleuca Local PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from Europe, this was the fourth for the Azores and second for Corvo, all of

which have been in October.

Corvo one at Vila Nova do Corvo from 5th to 9th October (JP, AV).

First-winter Pied Flycatcher, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

53

Red-breasted Flycatcher (Papa-moscas-real) Ficedula parva National PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from Europe, with just one previous record from Terceira in November 1995,

this was the first for Corvo.

Corvo one at the dump on 30th October (LG).

Black Redstart (Rabirruivo) Phoenicurus ochruros Local PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from Europe, with just four previous records; two in one year is good with

an individual also claimed on Flores (appendix 1) being the first for the western group if documented.

There is also an undocumented record from Corvo in October 2016..

Sao Miguel one at Mosteiros on 18th December (GM).

Terceira one at Praia da Vitoria fishing port on 14th November (CP, NG), with presumably the same

bird at nearby Cabo da Praia on 16th (CP).

Black Redstart (Nuno Gonçalves)

European Stonechat (Cartaxo-comum) Saxicola rubicola Local PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from Europe. This was the second for the Azores and first for Corvo.

Corvo one was seen briefly in the middle fields on 19th October (EAl).

White Wagtail (Alvéola-branca) Motacilla alba Local PRC species

Scarce vagrant from Europe in autumn and winter, two in one year represents an average showing

though this was the first on Corvo since 2012.

Corvo one around the airstrip from 23rd to 25th October (PAC), with presumably the same bird at the

reservoir from 26th to 27th, and the Tennessee Valley on 28th.

Santa Maria singles at Campo Pequeno on 10th January (NM), and Cova do Areao from 8th to 11th

November (NG, NM).

54

Meadow Pipit (Petinha-dos-prados) Anthus pratensis Local PRC species

Rare autumn migrant and winter visitor from Europe though increasingly frequent in recent years.

This was however the first for Pico.

Pico one at Achada das Lajes from 13th to 16th October (NG, VM, PS).

Buff-bellied Pipit (Petinha-fulva) Anthus rubescens National PRC species

Rare transatlantic migrant, occurring annually in small numbers in recent years during October and

November, though has over-wintered. With around forty previous records, just one represents a poor

showing for this species.

Pico one at Achada das Lajes from 12th to 16th October (NG, PS).

Common Redpoll (Pintarroxo-de-queixo-preto) Acanthis flammea National PRC species

Rare autumn vagrant with around a dozen previous records, all of which are thought to be of north-

western origin, probably hailing from Greenland or Arctic Canada.

Corvo one at the Tennessee Valley on 16th October, with presumably the same mobile bird at the

reservoir on 17th to 18th

Eurasian Siskin (Lugre) Spinus spinus Local PRC species

Rare migrant and winter visitor from Europe, with around thirty previous records, though the bird at

Nordeste is the first to occur in mid-summer.

Sao Miguel three at Sete Cidades on 10th January (GM) and four there on 9th April (GM) were

presumably part of the group present in December 2017, whilst more unusually one was at Nordeste

on 11th July (AM).

Lincoln’s Sparrow (Tico-tico-de-lincoln) Melospiza lincolnii National PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from North America with four previous records, all from Corvo in October; the

only other Western Palearctic records being an over-wintering bird in Iceland in 2013/14.

Corvo one at the Power Station on 18th October (PSt, BS), was seen briefly at Ribeira da Lapa the

following day.

Lincoln’s Sparrow, Corvo, (Vincent Legrand)

55

White-throated Sparrow (Chingolito) Zonotrichia albicollis National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from North America with this being the third for the Azores following

singles on both Corvo and Flores in the autumn of 2013.

Corvo one was at Ribeira da Lapa from 13th to 18th October (LM, JT).

White-throated Sparrow, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Bobolink (Triste-pia) Dolichonyx oryzivorus National PRC species

Rare but regular transatlantic vagrant predominantly in autumn, having been recorded annually

since 2007, with in excess of thirty records.

Corvo one was close to the whale watching station on 16th October (PSt, BS).

Baltimore Oriole (Corrupião-laranja) Icterus galbula National PRC species

A rare vagrant from North America with eleven previous records predominantly from Corvo in

October though these were the first to make landfall there since 2011.

Corvo single first-winter males were at Cape Verde Farm on 11th October (MB, EGdR, MSa),

and Ribeira das Cancelas from 14th to 24th (PAC).

Ovenbird (Mariquita-de-coroa-ruiva) Seiurus aurocapilla National PRC species

A rare North American vagrant, these were the 15th to 18th records for the Azores and represented

another bumper year following on from six in 2017.

Corvo singles were in Pico/ Ribeira da Ponte from 16th to 25th October (KH), Ribeira do Poco de Agua

on 17th (PSt, BS) and Ribeira do Cerrado das Vacas on 22nd (PSt, BS).

56

Ovenbird, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Northern Waterthrush (Mariquita-boreal) Parkesia noveboracensis National PRC species

Rare vagrant from North America with sixteen previous records, albeit that nine of these were in

2017, so this year represented a return to the norm.

Flores one at Ponta Delgada on 15th October (PAC et al)

Common Yellowthroat (Mariquita-de-mascarilha) Geothlypis trichas National PRC species

The most frequently recorded Nearctic wood-warbler and an annual vagrant since 2008.

Corvo single first-winter males were in the middle fields from 18th to 22nd October (PAC) and the

Lighthouse Valley on 19th (ZK).

American Redstart (Mariquita-de-rabo-vermelho) Setophaga ruticilla National PRC species

A rare vagrant from North America with thirteen previous records, these were the first since 2015.

Against this backdrop to receive six in one year is nothing short of astonishing.

Corvo singles were south of the Lighthouse Valley on 10th October (PAC, VL), in the middle fields on

11th (MB, EGdR, MSa), at Fojo on 12th (MB, MSa), Ribeira da Ponte from 13th to 15th (PAC) (with two

present from 16th to 17th (PF)) and Ribeira do Poco de Agua from 24th to 31st (BG).

Northern Parula (Mariquita-azul) Setophaga americana National PRC species

Rare transatlantic vagrant with sixteen previous records, this was a bumper year with an estimate of

six individuals on Corvo in October, albeit there may have been some duplication involved.

Corvo single birds were at the Miradouro on 15th October (SJ), Ribeira da Lapa from 16th to 17th (GB),

Fojo (PK) and Ribeira do Poco de Agua on 19th (PSt, BS), and near the reservoir (MN) and in the

Tennessee Valley on 20th (PA), whilst one was also in Ribeira da Ponte from 19th to 27th (RE, JS)

57

American Redstart, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Magnolia Warbler (Mariquita-de-faces-pretas) Setophaga magnolia National PRC species

An extremely rare North American vagrant, this was the fifth documented record for the Azores and

the fourth for Corvo.

Corvo one in the Lighthouse Valley from 24th to 28th October (DM).

Magnolia Warbler, Corvo (David Monticelli)

58

Bay-breasted Warbler (Mariquita-de-peito-castanho) Setophaga castanea National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from North America, this was the second for both the Azores and Corvo

with the first as recently as 2017. Part of an incredible fall of Nearctic vagrants it was also just the

third for the Western Palearctic and a much sought after vagrant for those that had missed the first.

Corvo one in Ribeira da Ponte from 16th to 21st October (VL, IV).

Bay-breasted Warbler, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Black-throated Blue Warbler (Mariquita-azul-de-garganta-preta) Setophaga caerulescens National PRC species

A rare vagrant from North America, this was the eighth for the Azores but the first for Flores, with all

previous records coming from Corvo in October.

Flores a first-winter female at Alagoinha from 21st to 26th October (RC et al).

Myrtle Warbler (Mariquita-coroada) Setophaga coronata National PRC species

Rare North American vagrant with 17 previous records, though perhaps surprisingly this was the first

on Corvo since three there in October 2012.

Corvo one was in the middle fields on 18th October (PAC), with what was presumed to be the same

bird in the Tennessee Valley from 20th to 25th.

59

Myrtle Warbler, Corvo (Kris de Rouck)

Black-throated Green Warbler (Mariquita-verde-de-garganta-preta) Setophaga virens National PRC species

A rare vagrant from North America, which has yet to be recorded away from Corvo in October, these

were the 9th to 11th for the Azores though unsurprisingly the first time a small flock has been seen.

With this loose flock also including Bay-breasted Warbler and American Redstart it was quite some

sight! An Azores speciality there are just two other Western Palearctic records.

Corvo one was in the upper part of Ribeira da Ponte on 15th October (KH, IS), with a remarkable

three together there the following day (RL, VL, KS).

Black-throated Green Warbler, Corvo (Kris de Rouck)

60

Wilson’s Warbler (Mariquita-de-barrete-preto) Cardellina pusilla National PRC species

Extremely rare vagrant from North America, this was the first for the Azores and fourth for the

Western Palearctic where all previous records have come from the British Isles in September and

October.

Corvo a first-winter female in Vila Nova do Corvo from 12th to 16th October (ZK et al).

Wilson’s Warbler, Corvo, (Radoslaw Gwozdz)

Scarlet Tanager (Sanhaçu-escarlate) Piranga olivacea National PRC species

A rare but increasingly regular autumn vagrant from North America, with in excess of 30 previous

records since the first in 2005, an estimated seven represents a good year.

Corvo singles were at Ribeira da Lapa on 15th October (JK), Ribeira do Cantinho on 16th (GM), Fojo

from 17th to 26th (GJ) with a second new bird there on 20th (SH), near the whale watching station on

18th (GM), and from 24th to 25th (GH).

Flores one at trapped and ringed at Fajazinha on 15th October (TV).

61

Scarlet Tanager, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Realejo) Pheucticus ludovicianus National PRC species

Rare vagrant from North America, occurring annually in very small numbers in recent years. Although

expected in autumn, there are two spring records.

Corvo singles were at Ribeira do Cantinho on 15th October (JK) and close to the whale watching hut

the following day, Lighthouse Valley on 17th (KN), and Ribeira do Poco de Agua from 20th to 21st (PSt,

BS) with two at Fojo on 26th (Corvo bird log).

Dickcissel (Papa-capim-americano) Spiza americana National PRC species

Extremely rare North American vagrant, with the first being two on Flores in November 2009, though

all subsequent records have come from Corvo, with these being the 7th and 8th for the Azores.

Another Azores speciality the only other Western Palearctic record is from Norway in July 1981.

Corvo single first-winter males were at Ribeira da Lapa on 13th October (LM, JT) and in the middle

fields from 22nd to 26th (AK), both easily separable by plumage.

Blue Grosbeak (Bicogrosso-azul) Passerina caerulea National PRC species

An extremely rare vagrant from North America this was the first unequivocal record for both the

Azores and the Western Palearctic. Initially located by its distinctive ‘pink’ call it was appreciated by

many.

Corvo a first-winter at Ribeira do Poco de Agua from 17th to 18th October (EDa, MS, PSt), was

relocated near the whale watching station on 24th.

62

Dicksissel, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

First-winter Blue Grosbeak, Corvo (Vincent Legrand)

63

Indigo Bunting (Mariposa-azul) Passerina cyanea National PRC species

One of the most regular transatlantic vagrants, being almost annual in the western islands in

October, where it has amassed in excess of 50 records since the first in 2005. Numbers fluctuate

greatly each year though is only the fourth year to reach double-figures.

Corvo an estimated total of eleven with singles at Lighthouse Valley from 12th to 19th October (RL,

KS), Ribeira das Cancelas on 15th (KS), Vila Nova do Corvo from 15th to 19th (PSt), Miradouro/

Power Station from 16th to 17th (TF, GJ, ZK), and Ribeira da Lapa from 17th to 20th (PSt, BS), with up

to two at Ribeira do Cantinho from 17th to 18th (PAC, GM). The highest count of the year was up to

four by the campsite at Fojo from 19th to 26th (VL), following a single bird between there and Pico

on 17th (PAC).

Indigo Bunting, Corvo (David Monticelli)

64

APPENDIX 1

ADDITIONAL RECORDS

The following records from 2018 are listed separately here because they do not meet the criteria

adopted by the Records Validation Group for inclusion in the main Systematic List (see Introduction

and Appendix 2). This does not necessarily mean that there has been an error in identification, but

rather that for such locally or nationally rare species the required supporting evidence – for

example, unequivocal photographic documentation, sound recordings or a detailed description – is

incomplete or lacking. Should further evidence become available, such records can be included in

the Systematic List in a future report and added to the Azores Bird Club database accordingly.

American Black Duck (Pato-escuro-americano) Anas rubripes National PRC species

Flores One at Poço do Ribeiro do Ferreiro on 19th October

Bonaparte’s Gull (Guincho-americano) Chroicocephalus philadelphia National PRC species

Flores one at Porto das Poças, Santa Cruz at 2nd Nov

American Herring Gull (Gaivota-prateada-americana) Larus smithsonianus National PRC species

The reported individuals of this species in 2018 were adult birds but the evidence collected so far

does not include detailed documentation (including primary tip formula) essential for identification.

Faial one near adult at Horta harbour on 7th Jan and on Charcos Pedro Miguel on 7th Apr

Terceira one at Lagoa do Junco on 17th Jan with two adults on 17th Feb

Forster’s Tern (Garajau-de-forster) Sterna forsteri National PRC species

Terceira one at Praia da Vitoria bay on 20th Mar

65

Belted Kingfisher (Guarda-rios-cintado) Megaceryle alcyon National PRC species

A rare vagrant.

Flores one at Fajã Grande on 10th Mar

Red-backed Shrike (Picanço-de-dorso-ruivo) Lanius collurio Local PRC species

Corvo one at Ribeira do Poco de Agua on 14th October

Iberian Chiffchaff (Felosa-iberica) Phylloscopus ibericus Local PRC species

This potential first for the Azores poses a significant identification challenge and has been referred to

the main Portuguese Rarities Committee as not all the evidence was available to this report’s records

validation committee.

Sao Miguel one at Joao Bom de Bretanha on 6th November

Lesser Whitethroat (Papa-amoras-cinzento) Sylvia curucca National PRC species

Corvo one at Ribeira do Poco de Agua on 16th October

Common Whitethroat (Papa-amoras) Sylvia communis Local PRC species

Corvo one at Vila Nova do Corvo on 30th October

Swainson’s Thrush (Tordo-dos-pântanos) Catharus ustulatus National PRC species

Corvo Ribeira da Ponte on 16th

Black Redstart (Rabirruivo) Phoenicurus ochruros Local PRC species

Flores one at Ponta Delgada on 23rd October

66

Ovenbird (Mariquita-de-coroa-ruiva) Seiurus aurocapilla National PRC species

Corvo Fojo from 29th October to 4th November

Common Yellowthroat (Mariquita-de-mascarilha) Geothlypis trichas National PRC species

Flores one at Faja Grande on 15th October

American Redstart (Mariquita-de-rabo-vermelho) Setophaga ruticilla National PRC species

Corvo one at the Lighthouse Valley on 17th and at Ribeira do Cantinho on 20th

Northern Parula (Mariquita-azul) Setophaga americana National PRC species

Corvo Two at Ribeira da Ponte from 20th to 21st

Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Realejo) Pheucticus ludovicianus National PRC species

Flores one at Fajazinha on 22nd October

APPENDIX 2

GUIDELINES ON CRITERIA FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF RECORDS FROM THE AZORES

First record for the Azores

Single observer

Clear photographic record showing identification features. Preferably a range of photographs and/or

video footage showing salient features from various angles. Also preferable if photo shows context

of where taken- showing e.g. endemic vegetation or recognizable landforms/features. Where call is

a factor then a sound recording is also recommended. Where call is a critical identification feature

than a sound recording is essential.

Multi-observer (two or more individuals)

Preferably a photographic record/sound record as above

Or

Very detailed notes/detailed sketches from observers who have good experience with describing

rarities to rarity committees.

Exceptions

Detailed notes and sketches could be considered by an observer who has a prolonged history of

successful and high-quality record submissions and who has not been able to collect photographic

evidence due to exceptional and rare circumstances which should be detailed.

Second to 10th records for the Azores

Single observer

Preferably: clear photographic record showing identification features, and ideally a range of

photographs and/or video footage showing salient features from various angles. Also preferable if

photo shows context of where taken – showing e.g. endemic vegetation or recognisable

landforms/features.

Where call is a factor, then a sound recording is also recommended. Where call is a critical

identification feature, a sound recording is essential.

67

Or

Detailed notes and detailed sketches from an observer with good rarity recording experience.

Multi-observer

Co-ordinated notes and sketches from all observers.

11 or more records for the Azores

Single observer

Preferably photo documentation.

Detailed notes and sketches considered from an observer, preferably with rarity-recording

experience.

Multi-observer

Preferably photo documentation. Co-ordinated detailed notes from observers. Sketches are

preferable.

APPENDIX 3

Retrospective records:

Red-rumped Swallow (Andorinha-daurica) Cecropis daurica Local PRC species

São Miguel one on 9th April 2017 (GM)

Reports Erratum:

68

2015 Report

Copy and paste error with Belted and Common Kingfisher. The Santa Maria record related only to

Common Kingfisher and not Belted Kingfisher.

2016 report

Common Eider (Eider) Somateria mollissima National PRC species

Rare autumn and winter vagrant. Only four previous records.

Terceira One at Marina da Praia da Vitória on 25th November (RBi & CM) 2016. This bird shows an

atypical plumage but there was no consensus with the report’s validation committee about placing

the bird in Appendix 1. Since publication comments have been received on the bird and the

possibility of a hybrid King Eider x Eider or even an atypical King Eider have been highlighted. The

record is still in circulation with the PRC and in the meantime this record is now considered an

Appendix 1 species.

2017 Report

Photo credit: Page 20, the Green Heron was not by NBdP it was by AVi and on page 21 the Western

Reef Egret/Little Egret/Hybrid was by NBdP and not AVi.

69

NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS

The Editorial Group welcomes submissions of records, images, papers and short notes relating to

rare and scarce birds in the Azores.

Records of interest which have not already appeared online at azoresbirdsightings.blogspot.co.uk

should be sent to Peter Alfrey: littleoakgroup@btinternet.com. Please note the criteria for inclusion

in this report which is set out in Appendix 2 (see page 65), and include the necessary supporting

evidence for sightings of rare and scarce birds with your submission.

Images for possible publication should be sent to Vincent Legrand, Photographic Editor:

legrandtwitch@gmail.com. Original, unedited RAW or high-quality Jpegs are preferred, with files

renamed to indicate the species name, location, island, date and photographer’s name, as follows:

NorthernFlicker_Fojo_Corvo_15October2010(VincentLegrand)

When submitting images, the email subject line should read ‘Azores [year] selection [your name]’.

Copyright of individual images published in this report remains with the photographer.

Contributors of papers and short notes for possible publication should send text as a Word or RTF

file, attached to an email, to Peter Alfrey: littleoakgroup@btinternet.com. Accounts of the discovery

of new or very rare species in the Azores are particularly welcome, but the Editorial Group would be

pleased to consider material on a wide range of subjects related to rare and scarce birds in the

Azores, including identification and changes in status and distribution. If required, advice can be

provided on the suitability of any proposed material at the draft stage. Written submissions are

considered on the understanding that they are being offered solely for publication in the Azores Rare

and Scarce Birds Report, which will retain copyright.

Unless notified otherwise, English and scientific names of birds should follow the IOC World Bird List

at www.worldbirdnames.org/ioc-lists/family-index.

70

NOTAS PARA COLABORADORES

O Grupo Editorial recebe submissões de registros, imagens, documentos e notas curtas relativas a

aves raras e escassos nos Açores.

Registros de interesse que não tenham já apareceram online no azoresbirdsightings.blogspot.co.uk

deve ser enviado para Peter Alfrey: littleoakgroup@btinternet.com. Por favor, note os critérios de

inclusão no presente relatório, que é apresentado no apêndice 2 (ver página 65), e incluem os

elementos comprovativos necessários para avistamentos de pássaros raros e escassos com o seu

envio.

Possíveis imagens para publicação devem de ser enviadas para o Vincent Legrand, editor fotográfico:

legrandtwitch@gmail.com. De preferência fotos originais não editadas em formato RAW ou Jpegs

em alta resolução com os ficheiros identificando espécie, localização, ilha, data e o nome do

fotografo como neste exemplo:

NorthernFlicker_Fojo_ Corvo_15Outubro2010 (Vincent Legrand).

Quando enviar os ficheiros, favor escrever em assunto do email “Azores, o ano, seleção e o seu

nome”. Direitos de imagens individuais publicadas neste relatório permanecem com o fotógrafo.

Contribuintes de papéis e notas curtas para possível publicação deve enviar o texto como um

arquivo Word ou RTF, anexado a um e-mail, para Peter Alfrey: littleoakgroup@btinternet.com.

Contas da descoberta de espécies novas ou muito raros nos Açores são particularmente bem-vinda,

mas o Grupo Editorial seria o prazer de considerar o material em uma vasta gama de assuntos

relacionados com as aves raras e escassos nos Açores, incluindo a identificação e mudanças no

estado e distribuição. Se necessário, o conselho pode ser fornecida sobre a adequação de qualquer

material proposto na fase de projecto. Observações por escrito são considerados no entendimento

de que eles estão sendo oferecidos exclusivamente para a publicação nos Açores raros e escassos

Birds relatório, que irá reter direitos autorais.

A não ser notificado em contrário, os nomes científicos de aves Inglês e deve seguir a lista Pássaro

IOC World at www.worldbirdnames.org/ioc-lists/family-index.

71

BACK ISSUES

Further copies of this issue and limited copies of other issues are available at £8 plus p&p (£1.50 UK,

£3 Europe). To order, please email: littleoakgroup@btinternet.com

USEFUL WEBSITES AND LINKS

http://azores.avesdeportugal.info

http://www.azoreschoice.com

http://www.spea.pt/en

www.azoresnature.co.uk

AZORES RARE AND SCARCE BIRD REPORT 2018

Abstract

Recommendations

Birds as a Tool for Island Habitat Conservation and Management

Birds as a Tool for Island Habitat Conservation and Management

Mercury levels in seabirds from the Azores, Mid-North Atlantic Ocean

Breeding of the endemic Azores Woodpigeon Columba palumbus azorica : a two-year study on Pico Island